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

Video: The Making of the Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo

In a new video exploring the design of the AMG Vision Gran Turismo, Mercedes-Benz designers speak of their excitement at designing without restrictions. The video, which features figures such as design vice-president Gorden Wagener, traces the car's development from the sketch phase to the final model – unveiled at last month's Los Angeles auto show. Steffen Köhl, director advanced design global, says, "We had the mix between the very far away showcar design – free and pure emotion – and a car that reacts realistically in the game." "The most stunning aspect of this car is the proportion.

Volt, Leaf win top safety rating in crash test

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf electric cars won the highest safety ratings in crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, putting them in the top 57 percent of models tested so far this year. About 80 of 140 vehicles tested among 2011-2012 models have received the Institute's "top safety pick," the group's award for state-of-the-art crash protection that exceeds federal safety rules, Institute spokesman Russ Rader said. The Volt and Leaf received a "good" rating -- the highest of four rankings -- on each of four crash tests, said the Institute, which is funded by auto insurers including State Farm, All-State and Geico.

This year's Pilkington Glass Awards winners announced at RCA grad show

Last week's Royal College of Art graduation exhibition (full report coming soon) also played host to the 27th annual Pilkington Vehicle Design Awards, with four students acknowledged by the glass making company. The Best Use of Glazing award was won by Jannis Carius' Bentley project, while Alexander Ibbett picked up prize for Best Design Interpretation with his 'downloadable' car. Meanwhile Alexander Brink and Nick Dunderdale were commended in the design interpretation category.