Dassault Systèmes and Riversimple partner for eCar Design Contest

Dassault Systèmes, in collaboration with Riversimple and the 40 Fires foundation, launched their eCar Design Contest recently, designed to encourage cooperation and the development of ideas on an open source platform. The companies had been in talks for some time regarding a joint project and this competition – a completely holistic, closed-loop approach to the building, sale and use of a car – is the result of their successful collaboration. Christopher Reitz, head designer at Riversimple, says, "The open source platform is a fantastic tool.

Rushed urban speed limit reductions criticised

ANY RUSH towards blanket 20mph zones on urban roads needs to be slowed down, according to a survey of nearly 25,000 motorists. Almost 70% of drivers think people should be consulted before 20mph limits are imposed on their street, the AA/Populus survey showed. More than half (55%) of the 24,351 AA members in the survey said drivers' views should be sought if 20mph zones are introduced in local areas through which they travel.

Vauxhall Adam: Prices & on sale at Paris 2012

The new Vauxhall Adam (and its European sibling, the Opel Adam) have their debut at the Paris Motor Show when the order book opens. We’re still not entirely convinced that the Vauxhall Adam has enough individuality to be a star in the marketplace, but it looks a decent offering nonetheless. Its styling is distinctly generic – it looks like a mish-mash of ideas from successful competitors – but Vauxhall is promising much for the Adam with extreme levels of customisation and lots of high-end toys, even if many will be cost options.