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GM expands advanced-vehicle-technology center in California

General Motors unveiled a new technical center dedicated to the development, maintenance and testing of alternative-energy vehicles last week in Torrance, Calif. The company has had local digs for years but recently leased the building next to its existing Advanced Technology Center for an alternative-energy research facility. It now employs a dozen scientists, technicians and engineers to advance the electrification of GM vehicles.

Lexus targets the Mercedes-Benz S-class with a sporty LS 460

Lexus has introduced its first sport package on the LS 460 to take aim at the Mercedes-Benz S-class. The flagship LS, redesigned for the 2007 model year, is getting long in the tooth. And Lexus wants younger BMW and Mercedes owners.

Suzuki Swift SZ-L launched

Suzuki has launched a new Limited Edition Swift - the Suzuki Swift SZ-L The SZ-L is designed to offer a more economical option to the usual 1.5 litre lump, and substitutes it with a 1.3 litre, 93bhp engine from the Swift GL, which delivers 0-60mph in 11.0 seconds, 48.7 mpg and CO2 emissions of 140g/km which isn’t actually too shoddy. To make this limited edition SZ-L, Suzuki are throwing in a few tweaks and some toys to make the package more appealing. You get AirCon, a choice of new metallic colours, some extra chrome bits and an upgrade or two for the interior.