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

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.

2012 Nissan 370Z Facelift – if you look really closely

The 2012 Nissan 370Z gets a mild tweak - debuts at the Chicago Motor Show The Nissan 370Z is getting a facelift for 2012 – which will debut this week at the Chicago Motor Show – but it’s not extensive. All the car buzz at the moment – at least around new models – is about the Geneva Motor Show in March. Which might explain why the 2012 Nizzan 370Z facelift is getting paraded on a much quieter stage at the Chicago Motor Show. Because we’re struggling to see what exactly Nissan has done to the 370Z for 2012.

Volkswagen, Dogs & Star Wars – a Super Bowl Ad

VW gets the dogs out for its Super Bowl Advert Volkswagen is planning a new Star Wars themed advert for the Super Bowl, this time with dogs singing the Star Wars theme. It may not be a big deal for us on this side of the Pond, but adverts in the Super Bowl are a very big deal for car makers in the US. Last year Volkswagen managed a viral hit with their ‘Little Vader’ take on Star Wars for the Super Bowl Ad, so they’re back this year with a variation on the same theme, with a choir of dogs barking out the Star Wars Theme.