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

Tyre labelling not telling full story

THE NEW TYRE LABELLING scheme to tell drivers how environmentally efficient a tyre performs is not giving the full picture, according to Emissions Analytics. Tests show that at certain speeds, tyres with a lower efficiency rating can perform as well as those with a higher rating. This means drivers could be paying more for higher rated tyres when they would be as well off with a more affordable tyre.

Concept Car of the Week: Honda Kiwami (2003)

As part of Honda's exploration into new, clean-performing technologies, the Kiwami concept was created to test public acceptance of the idea of a large, fuel cell-powered luxury sedan.  Unveiled in 2003, the simple yet striking design seemed like a Japanese twist on the Renault Vel Satis concept, which shared a similar wedge profile, wide stance and minimalist approach.  However, the Kiwami found its own interpretation of modern luxury, expressed through elegantly integrated technology rather than with crystal champagne glasses.  Up front, a full-width LED strip headlamp sat flush with the flat bonnet and the rectangular bumper to create a design of primitive beauty.  Further examples of the same simple Japanese aesthetic are found around the car, including the uncluttered body panels and a full-width tail-lamp graphic that matched the front theme.  The dramatic proportions of the interior were closely related to the package of the hydrogen power plant. Unlike other manufacturers at the time, Honda engineers did not create a 'skateboard' fuel cell chassis below the cabin. Instead, a sideways H-shaped layout for the control unit, ultracapacitor, fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage and other components was used, helping to create a lower center of gravity.

Jaguar Land Rover & Chery Automobile JV in China confirmed

Jaguar Land Rover & Chery Automobile get in to bed The long awaited news that  Jaguar Land Rover are to enter in to a joint venture with Chery Automobile in China has been confirmed. We’ve been talking about a joint venture in China between Jaguar Land Rover and Chery Automobile for more than a year, despite the (understandable) obfuscation from JLR on the issue. And now it’s been confirmed.