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

From 'Made in China' to 'Designed in China'

Visitors to the recent Auto China in Beijing may have noticed an impressive new Chinese sports car – called Aculeus – on one of the smaller exhibitor stands. The concept car is the latest project undertaken by CH-Auto Technology Corporation – one of a growing number of automotive R&D service companies based in China that provides support to the OEMs. The company was established in August 2003 by Lu Qun, an engineer who originally trained at Tsinghua University and later specialized in engine development testing.

Opel Adam going rallying

Opel is adding a bit of rally credibility to the new Adam by taking it rallying with an Adam R2 rally car for a one-make cup. But perhaps GM Europe are hoping to inject a bit of performance credibility in to the uninspiring mechanical offerings the Adam currently offers with the revelation that they’re making a rally Adam prepared to basic R2 spec, which means a tweak or three from the standard production car. That means upgrades to the engine, suspension, brakes and gearbox to produce an Adam rally car that’s an affordable entry point for young drivers and Opel are aiming to compete in the ADAC Opel Rally cup with the Adam R2.

Why this year's UAW-Detroit 3 talks don't matter

Here's what you need to know about the current UAW contract talks with the Detroit 3: They don't really matter. Oh, sure, agreements must be reached and contracts signed. But some commentators would have you believe the Detroit 3's future competitiveness hinges on their ability to stand up to the UAW in this year's negotiations.