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

Tesla ‘drops’ entry-level Model S. But was it ever going to be available?

The 40kWh version of the Tesla Model S is being dropped by Tesla in the US, but we do wonder if Tesla ever had any intention of delivering it in the first place. Tesla’s big claim ahead of the arrival of the, very impressive, Model S – and a seemingly vital part of the US taxpayer funding Tesla to develop the Model S – was that they would deliver a car that cost under $50k, something the car industry thought impossible. But when the Model S was launched, Tesla did indeed have an entry-level model available with a 4okWh battery that was listed at $58,750 (taking it almost down to the $50k mark after the US taxpayer chipped in the EV bribe) so Elon Musk could, quite reasonably, claim Tesla had delivered.

Webinars: Realism & Product Correctness in Realtime from RTT

The quality of 3D visualization has improved markedly in recent years as a result of new algorithms – allowing design decisions to be made on the basis of virtual models. Products, including the interior and exterior design of a vehicle, can now be portrayed very realistically using high-end visualization software. This webinar, entitled 'Realism & Product Correctness in Realtime', demonstrates how product lifecycles in the automotive industry – which range from design, development and production through to marketing and sales – is becoming increasingly digital.

Jaguar XJ: 4WD XJ planned

Jaguar XJ to get 4WD option It looks as if Autocar have been having a cosy little fireside chat with Jaguar about works in progress and future directions. Some of which is new, some of which isn’t. And some of which – heaven forfend – may be made up.