Echlin Ignition Parts Ech Ec793 - Back-up Lamp Connector on 2040-parts.com

MIT researchers rethink electric-car batteries

Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology say a new battery design for electric vehicles could be a lightweight and inexpensive alternative. The goal for the team's three-year project, launched in September 2010, is to have a functioning prototype ready to be engineered as a replacement for existing electric-car batteries. At this point in the project, the prototype uses a “semi-solid flow” to separate the two functions of a battery--storing energy and discharging it when needed--into separate physical structures.

Renault Initiale Paris stars at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

It may seem like a strange idea for Renault to launch its Initiale Paris premium sub-brand at a German motor show, but it could turn out to be quite an astute move. The French brand is hoping to take on the Germans with Initiale Paris, so showcasing this rather wonderful concept in Frankfurt is a clear signal of intent. Renault says this Initiale Paris concept previews the next generation Espace, but we can't help but see a massive dollop of Renault Avantime when we take a wander around the car.

Drivers believe potholes 'are out of control'

MOST DRIVERS (67%) think the pothole problem in the UK is getting out of control and the government and councils are not doing enough to solve the problem. Research by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has found 65% of female drivers and 69% of male drivers are very unhappy with the condition of the UK’s roads. The IAM cites a lack of communication between councils and drivers for this situation as a third (34% ) of drivers believe councils are reducing the amount they spend on road maintenance but 60% of drivers admit they don’t know if budgets are genuinely being cut.