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

LA Design Challenge 2013: The Entries

The LA Auto Show Design Challenge entries have been revealed, featuring designs from nine of the world's top design studios. JAC, Mazda, SAIC, Qoros, Subaru, Changfeng, Toyota and two groups from BMW DesignworksUSA have submitted designs for the challenge, themed ‘Biomimicry & Mobility 2025: Nature's Answer to Human Challenges'. This year's brief asked for designs for a vehicle experience that identify issues like congestion, pollution, sustainability, flexibility and safety in designing a mobility solution that mimics nature to solve them.

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.

Peugeot Quartz

In addition to a Europe-specific version of the Exalt concept, Peugeot will reveal a new show car in Paris. Called the Quartz, it follows themes established by the Onyx, shown in Paris two years ago, and the Exalt, which debuted in Beijing earlier this year. At 4,500mm long and 2,060mm wide, the Quartz is the smallest of the three, and, more obviously, switches coupé for crossover aesthetics.