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

Renault Twizy ZE electric concept at 2009 Frankfurt motor show

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 15 September 2009 12:00 This is the Renault Twizy ZE concept, just unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show. And while it might look mad, Renault has confirmed this 1+1 electric city car will go into production in 2011 essentially unchanged. I’m stunned – tell me all about the Renault Twizy ZE concept The Twizy ZE is a zero-emissions ‘car’ designed for urban transportation, with a tiny 2.3m length and a mere 3m turning circle.

Lada X-Ray

Russian automaker AvtoVaz has unveiled the Lada XRAY concept at the Moscow motor show. It's the first concept to emerge from under the direction of AvtoVaz's new design chief, Steve Mattin. Previously Design Director of Volvo, Mattin has a strong history with the SUV breed – it was under his direction that the XC60 was developed while at Volvo, while in his role prior to that at Mercedes-Benz, he also worked on the ML-Class.

Nissan’s EV onslaught continues with Townpod

Nissan’s Townpod will be the company’s third electric vehicle (a battery-powered version of the NV200 commercial vehicle will slot in after the Leaf) and is slated for a late 2012 arrival in the UK. Looking remarkably like a character from Pixar’s Cars film, the Townpod takes the lithium-ion battery-powered drivetrain of the Leaf and cloaks it in urban friendly sheetmetal. The long wheelbase and zero overhangs results in a huge cabin, accessed by some trick doors – rear-hinged rear doors and a vertically split rear door.