Auto Ventshade Bugflector 23353 on 2040-parts.com

Ford Fiesta (2011) US Spec leaks

Pitures of what appears to be the 2011 US Spec Fiesta have leaked ahead of launch Ford have played a long game with the introduction to the US market of Europe’s favourite small car – the Ford Fiesta. They’ve run a very savvy social media campaign and had a whole heap of Fiestas running round the US in the hands of bloggers and other social media types – The Fiesta Movement – to get coverage for the Fiesta ahead of its launch at the LA Auto Show this week. But it looks like Ford in Canada have jumped the gun this afternoon and let loose pictures of the US spec Fiesta before its official reveal.

Google reveals its first self-driving car prototype (video)

Google’s first self-driving car prototype (pictured) Google might not be the first company that springs to mind as a car maker, but Tesla has already proved that Silicon Valley can produce a car that buyers want and Google are intent on following a similar route. But where Tesla’s USP is its long-range electric capabilities – and a desire to build cars for the market – Google’s goal is more technology orientated and is all about developing self-driving car technology that works in the real world. For the last few years, Google has been experimenting with existing cars kitted out with self-driving gubbins, but now they’ve taken the next step and built their own self-driving prototype.

Gift Guide: Automotive apparel for all seasons

From the earliest days of motoring, the relationship between automobiles and apparel has been symbiotic. Clothing worn by Brass Era car and motorcycle buffs was adopted mostly to protect drivers from the elements, rather than from the hazards of speed. Floor-length dusters, motoring coats and driving caps shielded motorists from cold wind and choking dust.