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

Jaguar XKR Speed Pack (2010) first pictures

Jaguar will launch two new styling and performance packs for the 2011 model year XKR coupe at the Geneva motor show. The new XKR Speed Pack and Black Pack lets customers spec up styling accoutrements and raise the top speed from a limited 155mph to 174mph. This Jag XKR does what it says on the tin, unleashing the potential of the 503bhp/461lb ft supercharged V8 for a £3500 supplement.

GM expands advanced-vehicle-technology center in California

General Motors unveiled a new technical center dedicated to the development, maintenance and testing of alternative-energy vehicles last week in Torrance, Calif. The company has had local digs for years but recently leased the building next to its existing Advanced Technology Center for an alternative-energy research facility. It now employs a dozen scientists, technicians and engineers to advance the electrification of GM vehicles.

U.S. new car sales surge at fastest pace in nearly 7 years

U.S. sales of cars and light trucks surged 9 percent in November 1.24 million units and rolled off dealership lots at the fastest pace in almost seven years. The industry's annualized sales rate, adjusted for seasonal factors, rose to 16.4 million last month, up from 15.3 million a year earlier and easily topping analysts' forecasts in the 15.8 million range.