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

Videos: Volkswagen's exterior and interior designers highlight the Up's design elements

We've enjoyed the design of Volkswagen's new Up since we first saw the vehicle in concept form at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show. Devoid of any extraneous detailing, the simple, product design aesthetic is pared back to represent the crux of VW's design philosophy: pure, simple and solid.  The result is a harmonious design that stands out from the pack, with simple surfacing and subtle detailing; the Up's design is pure and minimalistic, which serves to exude quality in the product. Inside, the vehicle is brimming with space-saving design details.  From an IP devoid of central air vents to a thin headrest that visually extends the height of the interior, the Up is a success story in space efficiency, but it is also finished to a high level using quality materials.

Toyota EV: Toyota iQ-based electric concept at Geneva

The Toyota iQ-based Toyota EV Prototype It’s well-known we hold no truck with the motor industry trying to portray the electric car as a replacement for the ICE car. It’s palpable nonsense. But a compact electric car with a short city range – now that floats our boat.

General Motors partners with battery supplier LG on electric vehicles

General Motors said Thursday that it is partnering with its battery cell supplier, LG Group, to develop electric vehicles. The agreement, signed Wednesday by GM CEO Dan Akerson and LG President Juno Cho, will “help GM expand the number and types of electric vehicles it makes and sells,” the automaker said in a statement. It's the second example this week of automakers looking for partners to help in developing more fuel-efficient cars, as U.S.