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

Design Services: Ficosa International

In the hierarchy of car design the exterior of a powerful sports car is usually regarded as the highest level whilst the design of some of the smaller functional components tends to sit at the bottom. But even for companies not obviously dependant on sexy curves to help them make money, design is increasingly being recognised as a critical ingredient for commercial success. Whilst most large suppliers have grown their design capability over the last decade, few have truly embraced the potential of having a focus on Design within their corporate strategy.

Apple Watch users warned

IN THE wake of the new Apple Watch's arrival, early-adopters are being warned that using it while driving could be a deadly mistake that lands them in jail. Smart watches can issue regular updates from internet services, apps and the user’s mobile phone, but the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) is urging people to turn them off while at the wheel. In a statement the IAM said: “The latest piece of wearable technology from Apple will allow users to make and receive calls, check their messages and monitor their health by operating the device on their wrists.

Buy a Renault Laguna – get a free Renault Twizy EV

Renault in Spain is offering buyers of the Laguna or Espace a free Twizy EV as new car sales plummet in Spain. Renault has solved the problem of slow selling cars in the UK by simply no longer offering them. Which means the UK no longer gets the Wind Roadster, the Espace, the Modus, the Kangoo and even  the Laguna. But in Spain it’s different, so Renault dealers on the Iberian Peninsula are stuck with having to sell big mainstream cars no one actually wants, plus they have Renault’s obsession with producing daft EVs to contend with too.