Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

Hyundai ix20

Hyundai has revealed the first images of its new ix20, a new B-segment MPV that will join the Korean automaker's product range in Europe later this year. Following on from the ix35, the ix20 is the second European car to adopt Hyundai's new 'fluidic sculpture' design language.  The new car, which will make its official debut at the Paris motor show, has been designed and developed at Hyundai's European R&D center in Rüsselsheim, Germany, under the direction of Thomas Buerkle. The car's name is said to reflect the new model's crossover-like versatility, which combines functionality with sportier driving dynamics.  Hyundai claims the ix20 aims to steer away from the boxy minivan image typically associated with the segment and appeal to buyers with young families.

Foreign language theory test scrapped

FROM TODAY the driving test in the UK must be taken in English or Welsh, after long-standing rules permitting foreign language speakers to sit the test were removed. Theory tests have previously been available with voiceovers in 19 foreign languages and candidates could use an interpreter on both the theory and practical driving tests. But changes that come into effect today were introduced after a consultation showed more than 70% supported the withdrawal of foreign language voiceovers and interpreters.

Better Place Electric Car visitor centre opens

Better Place have opened a visitor centre in Israel to demonstrate their battery swap technology for electric cars Last October we wrote about a start-up company in Israel – Better Place – that had a new way forward for electric cars by taking the purchase of battery packs out of the equation, and was developing a system for ‘Battery Swap’ stations where electric car owners could drive in and swap their battery pack for a fully-charged one in a few minutes. That story first brought to our attention our favourite quote of last year – by Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn – who said “A hybrid is like a mermaid: if you want a fish, you get a woman; if you want a woman, you get a fish.” Which probably explained why Nissan – and its partner Renault – got involved with Better Place. Better Place aims to address the main concerns of electric car drivers by making the battery packs in electric cars ‘swappable’.