Daihatsu Mira 2002 Speedometer [7761400] on 2040-parts.com

2015 Ford F-150 work to cost more at body shop

The 2015 Ford F-150 pickup that debuted at the Detroit auto show came in weighing about 700 pounds less than its predecessor. That means improved performance and better fuel economy, so that’s a win-win, right? Well, less than 10 percent of independent repair shops are certified, meet training requirements and have the equipment to work with aluminum body parts, according to Darrell Amberson, chairman of the Automotive Service Association.

Is this the Audi Q4 crossover?

Audi has released three official sketches of a new TT-inspired crossover concept set to make its debut at the Beijing auto show later this month. The high-riding crossover, whose details are being kept secret for now, is rumored to preview the upcoming Audi Q4 – Ingolstadt's answer to the likes of the BMW X4 and Porsche Macan. The new five-door shares design cues with the three-door Allroad Shooting Brake wheeled out at the Detroit auto show back in January, suggesting Audi is well into a series of new sporting crossover-style SUV models that will line up alongside the more practical SUV offerings already on sale today.

Fisker to buy former GM Solstice/Sky plant in Delaware for $18 million

The old General Motors plant in Delaware that until July cranked out sports cars for Pontiac, Saturn and Opel will be sold and retooled to build plug-in hybrids with UAW workers. Fisker Automotive said Tuesday that it will buy the plant, located in Wilmington, Del., from Motors Liquidation Co.--the old General Motors Corp.--for $18 million. If Fisker's plans come to fruition, production at the plant could start in late 2012.