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

Shortages of Japan-built cars open the door for U.S. automakers

U.S. carmakers sense that they have a chance to win back customers this summer with the launch of several redesigned models, while their Japanese competitors struggle with supply shortages. About 197,000 car buyers who typically would favor a Japanese brand are in play this summer, according to market research firm A.T.

Crunch watch Feb 09: the auto industry in crisis

By Tim Pollard, Ben Pulman and Ben Whitworth Motor Industry 02 March 2009 18:11 Monday 2 March• The Volkswagen Group announces a 5% rise in sales revenues in the 2008 tax year and a 3% increase in operating profits, up to €6.3 billion. Chairman Martin Winterkorn said the group's multi-brand strategy and low CO2 cars had helped sustain sales, although he admitted that 2009 would see a fall in demand and revenues (Volkswagen) Friday 27 February• Jaguar Land Rover announces a significant order for 13,000 cars from a Chinese business. It's a morale boost for JLR which has been hit by a slump in demand with the global slowdown (BBC News)• Opel this afternoon agreed to a restructuring plan designed to save as many jobs and factories as possible – but it needs a €3.3 billion lifeline from the state.

SRT Viper GTS-R takes to the track

The boys from SRT put a few hot laps on its 2013 Viper GTS-R on Friday in preparation for running with the American Le Mans Series. Team wheelman Marc Goossens was behind the wheel at the 2.279-mile, 14-turn Carolina Motorsports Park in Kershaw, S.C. Check out the one-minute video above and the comments below from SRT director of marketing and operations Beth Paretta, driver Marc Goossens and road racing manager of SRT Motorsports Gary Johnson.