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

Ferrari F1 drops ‘Marlboro’ graphics for Barcelona

Ferrari have dropped the ‘Pack of Marlboros’ graphic for the Barcelona GP A couple of weeks ago we reported that Ferrari have been accused of running subliminal tobacco advertising on their F1 cars, an allegation Ferrari strenuously denied. To be honest we can’t know for sure whether there was an intent to subliminally suggest a pack of Marlboros with the barcode graphics on the current Ferrari F1 livery or not. What we can be sure of is that now a jobsworth has made the allegation we all think of a pack of Marlboros every time we see the Ferrari livery.

Electric Ford Focus to guest on Leno show

Jay Leno's new show goes live Monday on NBC, and a guest star from Dearborn, Mich., will have a recurring role. The battery-electric Ford Focus will be the centerpiece of a bit dubbed the “Green Car Challenge” on the show. Leno, a noted car guy, will have celebrity guests compete for the best track times in the Focus.

Future products: Kia seeks lively, upscale look

Kia's redesigned Optima sedan and the Cadenza replacement for the Amanti, both due next year, reflect an emphasis on creating a livelier and more upscale look for the once-bland brand. Indeed, styling has been a crucial element of Kia's new-product push in the past 18 months. The team at Kia Design Center America near Los Angeles--part of the automaker's global design network led by onetime Audi design chief Peter Schreyer--has helped set the new styling direction.