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

All used up: Pre-owned sales rise as consumers seek new-car alternatives

Used-car sales took a leap upward in April, and the trend is expected to continue at least until midyear as pent-up demand for affordable pre-owned vehicles jacks up at least one segment of the car marketplace. Sales of new cars continued an unabated slide toward what analysts say is a 30-year low in the United States, but used-car sales showed strength as buyers unable to finance new cars shifted their sights to less expensive used models. As a result, retailers such as the large Penske Automotive Group reported that despite an overall decline in sales in the first three months of 2009, improving used-car sales kept them in the black.

Ford Tourneo Custom Concept

Ford is set to unveil its eight-seater Tourneo Custom Concept at next month's Geneva motor show, previewing new features that will give the vehicle car-like appeal. Ford designers have given the commercial vehicle the character of the company's Kinetic Design passenger car range, emphasizing movement, including a trapezoidal grille, a strong and muscular shoulder line, prominent wheel lips and a DLO with distinguishing kicks at the rear of each element. "We set out to create a design with clean, futuristic lines and with a real sense of occasion," explains Paul Campbell, chief designer, Ford of Europe.

Gemballa's body found in South Africa

The body of car customizer Uwe Gemballa, who had been missing for eight months, has been found in South Africa. He was 54 at the time of his disappearance. Gemballa had traveled to South Africa in February on a business trip regarding the opening of a dealership in Johannesburg, according a Reuters report.