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

Design Essay: BMW i – Setting the industry agenda for the next decade

Many have already dismissed BMW i as a radical experiment too far ahead of its time, but looking beyond the glossy carbon fiber facade reveals three ways it will change the automotive landscape during the next decade: 1. Re-define the EV category Despite Tesla, Nissan, GM, Renault and Toyota all operating in the EV space, global sales in 2012 totaled just 54,000. Many put this down to high-cost and range anxiety, but another key factor is nearly always overlooked.

Bentley's posh leather child seat

Bentley has launched a new collection of accessories to compliment its cars, all of which apparently highlight the company’s 'design and craftsmanship skills'. From child seats to torches, the range is designed to make the life of your average Bentley owner just that little bit more comfortable. Perhaps, but having spent £150,000 on 200mph of GT pleasure, you are unlikely to fit a Halfords booster seat. The hand-stitched child seat - for 'the company’s smallest enthusiasts' - is made to match mum or dad's car with the same leather and piping, and can feature the child's name embroidered on the back beneath the Bentley wings, if Sir or Madam wishes.

Nissan cuts the price of the Micra to £7,995

The Nissan Micra is getting a price cut in the UK, with the entry-level Micra dropping to just £7,995 and price cuts across the Micra range. That means the entry-level Micra 1.2 12v Visia comes down form a not exactly bargain basement £9,750 to a much more appealing £7,995. And Nissan hasn’t done it by cutting equipment levels, as they say every model still gets the same level of equipment, including Bluetooth.