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

VL Destino revealed - what became of the Fisker Karma

VL This is the new face of the Fisker Karma, the luxury plug-in hybrid whose parent company went to the wall last year. But it’s not only the Karma’s gap-toothed grin that’s disappeared: its plug-in hybrid powertrain has bitten the dust, too, replaced by a GM-sourced V8 – a supercharged lump boasting 638hp and 640lb ft. Called the VL Destino, the wilder Karma will be shown at this month’s North American International Auto Show, aka the Detroit Motor Show.

Frankfurt Motor Show 2007 Trends and Overview

The Frankfurt Motor Show is home to the European moguls of the automotive industry. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, the Volkswagen Group, GM Europe and much of Ford Europe all have their head offices within a few hours drive of the Frankfurt Messe, so it's only right that these automakers would bask in the limelight. But instead of competing for bragging rights for the most powerful cars in the range, this year's motor show afforded automakers an opportunity to showcase their environmental credentials and their latest 'innovative' powertrain technologies.

General Motors combines smartphone functions with the Chevrolet Volt

General Motors is bringing together two of the hottest areas of technology--smartphones and plug-in electric cars. GM's OnStar telematics unit has developed a downloadable application that will let Chevrolet Volt drivers use a Blackberry Storm, Apple iPhone or Motorola Droid to remotely control and monitor some vehicle functions, such as charging. The Volt is slated to go into production late this year and arrive in California utility company fleets by early 2011.