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

Show Review: Design LA

Design LA, the automotive design conference that incorporates the Design Challenge competition, has announced its winners, during this year's LA Motor Show. Chuck Pelly, who set up Design LA last year, introduced the event and the judges for the Design Challenge: Tom Matano , Director, Academy of Art University; Imre Molner, Dean, College of Creative Studies; Steward Reed, Chair, Transportation Design, Art Centre College of Design; and Bill Van Amburg, Senior Vice President, Calsart. This year's nine competition entries had a brief to deliver a 100 percent recyclable, five-year lifespan vehicle with 'accoutrements that add fun or function to represent California's unique green lifestyle.' The Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans is a Le Mans-style race car concept notable for its enclosed wheels and motorbike style forward-inclined driving position between the front wheels (which can just be made out in the translucent illustration shown here).

U.S. unveils blueprint to tackle driver distraction

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Thursday the agency isn't looking at new regulations to address distracted driving, but rather is calling on automakers to step up voluntary efforts to combat risks with new technologies and education. LaHood, who's made distracted driving a top automotive safety priority of the Obama administration, said he's met with the CEOs of numerous automakers and feels confident "they're committed to safety." He even praised Subaru of America for a TV ad that highlighted the dangers of driver distraction. The commercial featured a father talking to his teenage daughter about the risks of using a cell phone while on the road.

2013 Lexus LS: Price & Spec announced

Lexus has revealed that the 2013 Lexus LS will start at £71,995 for the LS 460 Luxury rising to £99,495 for the LS 600h L Premier. Lexus has brought back the LS 460 for those who don’t want the hybrid LS 600h, so you can now have your new LS with a 4.6 litre V8 with 382bhp and no electric gubbins. Not only that, but you can opt for the LS 460 in Luxury or F Sport spec for a little dynamic edge.