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

UK drivers disinterested in electric cars

DRIVERS in the UK are not interested in electric cars, with only 5% stating they would think about buying one, according to new research. A further 14% of drivers say they have considered an electric car but rejected and bought a petrol, diesel or hybrid car instead. More than half (56%) of British drivers said they had not even thought about an electric car as a possible replacement for their existing vehicle.

Saab: China’s Pang Da & Youngman to invest $7.5 billion. UPDATED

Saab: China to invest $7.5 billion Update: We have now been told by Saab that Pang Da and Youngman are to provide €50 million immediately and €600 million for short to medium finance. Funding for the revised business plan and provide long-term financial stability the new Chinese owners have also budgeted funding for the planned expansion of Saab Automobile’s portfolio and additional operations to be set up in China There will be a reduction of 500 in the employee numbers. Sales targets for 2012 of 35-55,000 cars and 2013 of 75-85,00 and long-term of 200,000 cars a year Interestingly, Saab says that ‘Saab Automobile has not received the funds from Pang Da and Youngman that have been committed for today.’ Oh, well. Although the deal which will see Saab sold to China’s Youngman and Pang Da is still subject to a raft of approvals – Swedish Debt Office, EIB, GM, Chinese Government… – it seems the Chinese have big plans to invest up to $7.5 billion in Saab in the coming years.

Mini unveils new Cooper and Cooper S at LA Auto Show

Mini unveiled its Mini Cooper earlier this week, but this is the first time we've had a glimpse of it stateside. What's there to say about the Mini? Well, it's not so mini anymore -- it grows by 4.5 inches, 1.7 inches wider, and about half an inch taller.