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

Skoda at the Paris motor show 2008

By Ben Whitworth Motor Shows 02 October 2008 17:33 Skoda launched its revised Octavia at the Paris motor show – and it's clear to see they've injected some mini-Superb DNA. And that was about it for the Czech marque this year; 2008 is a bit of a slow period for Skoda, before the product onslaught begins in earnest next year. With its new nose and tail bringing it into line with the new Superb, the Skoda Octavia now has much needed visual presence.

Porsche announces new Weissach design center and wind tunnel

Porsche is to invest around €150m into its Weissach development facility, including a new design center. The plans also include an electronics integration department and a state-of-the art, on-site wind tunnel, which is hoped will allow the company to realize an holistic approach to efficient design, with a strong focus on aerodynamics. When we spoke with head of Porsche design, Michael Mauer, at this year's Paris motor show, he also alluded to the fact that the Volkswagen Group's – and, more specifically, Walter de'Silva's – recent influence on the German manufacturer was shifting its attitudes: "The Volkswagen Group has a very good understanding of how much freedom a brand needs to keep its characteristics and with [Walter] as 'conductor', I feel a lot of support with design issues within the company," explained Mauer.

Car owners targeted by litter law

CAR OWNERS could be fined if other people drop litter out of their vehicles under new laws approved by peers. The new law would mean the registered owner of a vehicle would face a civil penalty even if they were not responsible for the littering. Home Office minister Lord Taylor said it would give councils an extra power to tackle the "scourge" of rubbish lying on the roadside.