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

Design Services: Ficosa International

In the hierarchy of car design the exterior of a powerful sports car is usually regarded as the highest level whilst the design of some of the smaller functional components tends to sit at the bottom. But even for companies not obviously dependant on sexy curves to help them make money, design is increasingly being recognised as a critical ingredient for commercial success. Whilst most large suppliers have grown their design capability over the last decade, few have truly embraced the potential of having a focus on Design within their corporate strategy.

Porsche 918 Spyder races toward production

OK, let's put the usual arguments to rest first: The Porsche 918 Spyder is going to be even faster than the Carrera GT in a straight line. That's based on Porsche's own computer simulations in anticipation of the production version of the gasoline-electric-powered 918 Spyder, which is due to roll off a dedicated line within a decommissioned paint shop at Porsche's Zuffenhausen, Germany, headquarters next year. The claimed 0-to-62-mph time is 2.8 seconds; 0-to-124 mph is 8.9 seconds, and top speed should be about 202 mph, thanks in part to series of active aerodynamic functions, including a multistage rear wing.

Nissan-Conran

Nissan and British design group Conran have unveiled 'Plus Conran' limited versions of the Cube, March (Micra) and Lafesta minivan for the Japanese market. The series follows Nissan's 'Modern Living Concept', which stresses advanced design values in cabins, first introduced with the Teana in 2003, and seen in the the Amenio concept minivan, shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2005. Cube + Conran features leather seats emphasizing texture and color, enhancing and refining the sofa-like feel of the Cube seats.