Understanding design for China

With the entire automotive world focusing on China at present, Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design (SD) has announced the creation of a new graduate program following that trend. The MDes Design Practices scheme will focus upon transportation design issues in China, as well as the growing economies of Asia. The ten month program aims to familiarize students with the emerging trends and issues that are directly impacting and influencing transport in the Peoples Republic.

Toyota Camatte 57s concept

You may remember last year we reported the unveiling of a customizable, modular little concept car called the Toyota Camatte at the Tokyo Toy Show. This year Toyota has returned with an updated version called the Camatte 57s with more scope for families to personalize their space-framed little machines with a total of 57 external panels (as its name suggests) as well as the removal of the roof which apparently "adds to the fun factor and allows everyone on board to enjoy the colorful exterior they have created". Like last year's car the driving position can accommodate both adults and children with gown-ups sat in the right rear seat able to intervene should the infant pilots go astray.

New Ford Mondeo to get new 1.5 litre EcoBoost engine

The new EcoBoost engine will also be turning up in the Ford Fusion for North America, but the UK and Europe are going to have to wait until at least the end of 2014 – when we get the new Mondeo - before the new engine is on offer. The 1.5 litre EcoBoost offers improved economy and emissions compared to the 1.6 litre currently available  - with similar power, performance and torque compared –  but one of the main reasons for offering it is that many countries offer tax breaks for engines under 1.5 litres. The new engine will be built by Ford In Romania initially (although it will get churned out elsewhere too in due course) and offers turbocharging, direct fuel injection and variable valve timing.