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

McLaren MP4-12C launches into production

It's finally happening. Perhaps the most anticipated British sports car in at least a decade--the McLaren MP4-12C--has gone into production. McLaren announced the news on Wednesday, and as many as 1,000 copies of the potent speedster will be built this year.

2014 Camaro Z/28 boasts slick aero tricks

When the Chevy Camaro Z/28 was unveiled last spring at the New York auto show, we were told how Chevy took stuff out to lighten the car. Trunk carpet and interior sound-deadening material are jettisoned, the sound system has but one speaker, the rear glass is thinner and so on. Despite the decontenting, it turns out the Z/28 is no stripper, at least in terms of aero technology: Chevrolet says the 2014 Camaro Z/28 manages airflow “like few other production vehicles, generating downforce like a race car.” Delving into the hyperbole reveals numerous exterior modifications designed to improve not just aerodynamics, but powertrain and brake-system cooling, as well.

Chevrolet Volt prices announced

GM has revealed that the Volt hybrid could cost $33,500 (£21,000) in the US after government tax credits, making it nearly £2000 cheaper than Nissan’s Leaf electric car. The Volt’s List price is $41,000 (£26,300) but qualifies for a subsidy thanks to its low emissions. A basic Volt comes with Bluetooth and sat-nav but buyers can add leather seats and steering wheel, heated seats, rear camera, polished wheels and park assist.