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

For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

Audi A1 by Damien Hirst (2010): first official picture

British artist Damien Hirst has helped Audi produce this art car: an Audi A1, which sold for €420,000 (£350,000) at a charity raffle. The Audi A1 Damien Hurst was shown at pop star Elton John’s White Tie and Tiara Ball and the money raised goes to his AIDS foundation. ‘That’s the most exciting object we’ve ever had on auction at the White Tie,’ said Sir Elton.

Mercedes CLS (2011) first official pictures

After months of speculation and spyshots, we can finally bring you the first pictures of the new 2011 Mercedes CLS. Due to bow in at the Paris motor show in September 2010, the new CLS continues the theme set by the 2003 original, offering four doors in a low-slung, coupé-like shape. If the new Mercedes CLS stirs your memory somewhat, that would be because it draws heavily on the Shooting Break concept which we saw earlier in 2010 at the Beijing motor show.