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

SEMA releases guide to registering custom cars

For the first time in five years, SEMA released its updated 50-state guide to help street-rod, custom-kit and replica-car owners register them. Known as the Tag and Title Toolbox, SEMA's updated database has the administrative forms and proper terms needed when working with each state's motor-vehicle department. The paperwork for each state is compiled and organized, with hobby-related words highlighted for quick reference.

White is the most popular car color

White is the most popular vehicle color in the world, followed by black and silver, according to car-paint supplier PPG Industries. In North America, white was first, making up 20 percent of the 2011-model-year cars. Silver was second at 19 percent, then black at 18 percent, gray at 15 percent, red and blue tied at 9 percent, naturals such as brown, tan and gold at 7 percent, green at 2 percent and other colors at 1 percent.

Lotus V8: the new engine plan in full

Lotus has confirmed details for its new inhouse V8 engine family, which will make its first road car appearance in the 2013 Esprit. Responding to feedback which said the 'New Era' plan to launch five new models was weakened by its reliance on Toyota engines, the new management team decided last Christmas to design and develop its own engine. 'The feedback from customers was "how can you justify a £100,000 car with a Toyota engine?",' said chief executive Dany Bahar.