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

Car companies, community & a cause

Last Saturday night (April 20) was one of those I-can't believe-I-get-paid-to-do-this kind of evenings. My wife Maria and I -- along with 550 of our closest friends -- were invited to attend the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute's 31st annual dinner. The name sort of says it all, and the dinner is a simple enough concept that even I get it: It's held to raise money.

Watch the Porsche 911 GT3 rear-steering system work

A handful of manufacturers have offered four-wheel steering in the past including Honda, Nissan, BMW, Mitsubishi, Mazda and, most recently, Acura and Porsche. On Monday, suspension expert Elephant Racing uploaded a video to its YouTube channel demonstrating the feature on the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3. In most four-wheel steering cars--Acura and Porsche included—a computer controls the movable rear wheels.

Dan Darancou appointed Chief Designer at CH-Auto

Former GM design manager Dan Darancou has become Chief Designer at CH-Auto, a major Chinese car design studio that supports numerous domestic car manufacturers as well as international car companies looking to sell vehicles in the burgeoning automotive market. Darancou, who started his new role on November 1, will be overseeing all design activities as well as facilitating the liaison between the styling and engineering departments so the company can deliver complete ready-for-production vehicles and services. As well as tackling these initiatives, Darancou will also be promoting the organization, furthering the company's goal to become the premier car design studio in China.