Carlisle Turf Glide Tire 8.00-6 Blackwall Bias-ply 508040 Each on 2040-parts.com

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.

Ford Ka at the Paris motor show 2008

By Gavin Green Motor Shows 02 October 2008 10:26 Ford’s latest Ka – high style meets low cost – makes its bow at the Paris show. It’s a funky little thing based on the Fiat 500/Panda, and built in the same Polish factory. It dials up driving brio and youthful appeal compared with the industrial Panda and the mature chic of the 500 and will likely follow its successful predecessor as Britain’s best-selling baby car.

Friday in Le Mans: Prerace parade and car show thrills crowds

The 24 Hours of Le Mans doesn't start until Saturday at 3 p.m. French time, but as anyone here will tell you, the festivities began much earlier in the week. On Friday, I had the opportunity to visit the Driver's Parade and car show in downtown Le Mans, a five-hour festival that brings out what appeared to be half the town, plus many race enthusiasts from around the globe.