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

2014 Ram 1500 diesel is the new Truck of Texas

In addition to being one of the largest automotive markets in the country, Texas is also Truck Country. So when members the Texas Auto Writers Association talk about the trucks they like, we tend to listen -- as do automakers. This year, following what we can only imagine was an extra-dusty, extra-gritty Truck Rodeo, TAWA has chosen a new Truck of Texas: The 2014 Ram 1500 pickup.

Design Review: Mercedes-Benz CLC

The Mercedes brand tends to evoke images of wealth and prestige. It is also a company with quite a bit of heritage under its belt, with founder Karl Benz having built the first motorized vehicle back in 1886. So the image of prestige is well deserved, especially when you consider the illustrious designs the car maker put on the road in the last half century: the 1952 300Sc, the iconic 300SL 'Gullwing' from the 1950s and the 230SL 'Pagode' from 1964.

CCS/GM E-Flex project

Cadillac V-Flex Evan Mai Evan Mai presented the Cadillac V-Flex, a mid-engine electric race car that uses GM's E-Flex platform in a new configuration and advances Cadillac's art & science design language.  The race inspired proportion and layout of the V-Flex draws heavily from Le Mans prototype and F1 cars. Power would come from an electric motor with a range extending internal combustion engine. The Li-ion battery placed in the bottom center of the vehicle could be swapped from underneath the car during pit stops. Aluminum heat sinks in the rear efficiently dissipate heat away from the motor and battery while performing as a rear spoiler.  The front grille serves to communicate the Cadillac design philosophy and also serves as a functional aerodynamic enhancement.