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

Is the V8 a dying breed? Auto engineers expect more turbos, smaller engines

The V8 engine, a symbol of power and prestige for more than a century, is looking more and more like an endangered species. A panel of powertrain experts speaking on Tuesday at the 2009 SAE World Congress painted a bleak picture for big engines in this era of tightening emission standards and volatile fuel prices. But smaller engines will not mean drivers have to give up performance.

Honda AC-X Concept

The Honda AC-X plug-in hybrid sedan will form part of the company's seven concept vehicle strategy at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. From the images released by Honda, the AC-X appears similar in both size and proportion to the hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity, with its a-pillars and windscreen base pulled far forwards, a smooth transition over its nose, screen, roof and rear deck and an elongated, sharply cut-off tail. Aerodynamic efficiency is clearly paramount.

Official: UK car production is booming

Nearly 10% MORE cars were produced in the UK this September compared to the same time last year, data released today from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has revealed What’s more, 1,125,433 cars were manufactured in the UK by the end of the month – that’s a 3.9% rise compared to 2012. September new car sales beat forecasts UK car sales hit four year high in 2012 This means UK car production has returned to pre-recession levels. The rolling 12-month total has now topped 1.5 million vehicles.