Engine Harmonic Balancer Pioneer 872042 on 2040-parts.com

Sandy's toll: 15,000 cars and counting

The damage tally from Superstorm Sandy continues to roll in. The latest estimate is that Toyota, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda plan to scrap 15,000 new cars damaged. The National Automotive Dealers Association says that number could grow to 200,000 cars.

Electric cars amped up with £500 million boost

THE GOVERNMENT is to extend the £5,000 grant scheme open to anyone who buys a car with plug-in electric power. It is part of a £500 million move to encourage car owners – and city authorities – to take up the electric car baton and run with it. The initiative will give cities a chance to win government funding to further the sales of electric cars in their areas, for example by allowing them to use bus lanes or park for free.

Volvo XC60 R-Design revealed

Volvo has released details of an R-Design version of the XC60 Still, more power isn’t everyone’s cup of tea – particularly at the moment – but many buyers like a bit of ‘butchness’ in their cars. And to be completely fair to Volvo, although they haven’t messed with the oily bits for more oomph, they have played with the suspension for more feel. Volvo say the XC60 has improved steering (thanks to ‘Direct Steering Gear’), stiffer damping and a more robust chassis.