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

Theory driving test cost to be cut

THE COST of the written part of the driving test is to be reduced, the Government has announced. Under Government plans, which are now out for consultation, the cost of sitting the theory section of the test will be reduced from £31 to £25 from October 2014, with a further drop of drop of £2 planned in October 2015. The proposals could save learner drivers in excess of £100 million over the next nine years.

Fisker battles problems as the Karma finally lurches toward launch

All Henrik Fisker wants is to build his plug-in hybrid cars and deliver them to customers--some of whom have been waiting three years since plunking down $5,000 deposits. Instead, he has been fending off criticisms aimed at his green-car company as shipments of his $103,000 Karma plug-in hybrid sedan have been delayed by cash flow troubles, regulatory snarls and a recall. But when a startup such as Fisker Automotive accepts a Department of Energy loan in a down economy, having the company tossed around like a political football comes with the territory.

Ice, ice, Bentley

BENTLEY is returning to the ice in 2014 with a new and extended programme of slippery driving challenges for well-heeled customers. Popular demand for the company’s exclusive – and massively expensive – Power on Ice experiences has led to an increase in the number of days Bentley is to set up shop at its erstwhile base in the north of Finland, around 37 miles from the Arctic Circle. As ever, ice- and snow-driving specialist Juha Kankkunen, who also happens to be a four-time World Rally Championship winner, will be on hand to tutor paying guests in the delicate art of driving a performance car in difficult conditions.