Toyota updates the Verso MPV

Toyota will show the all new Verso at Geneva '09 The Verso is an all new version of the MPV, offering Toyota’s Easy Flat-7 seating configuration, which basically allows owners to lower all the back five seats individually to accommodate whatever configuration they need for load/passenger requirements. The Verso is stretched over the old Verso, with a longer wheelbase and wider track, offering a more spacious interior. There’s a pretty much all-round increase in power of 20%, but Toyota has managed to pull off a 12% reduction in emissions and fuel use.

Mercedes-Benz found guilty of price-fixing in China

Associated Press Mercedes-Benz has been found guilty of fixing prices of car parts in China – with BMW, Audi and Chrysler also facing penalties. China’s state news agency, Xinhua, reports that the German manufacturer has been found guilty of using its power to control the prices of parts. The Chinese government is cracking down on monopolies and has been accused of being too harsh on companies from abroad.

Gordon Murray and Toray Industries build carbon-fiber electric roadster

U.K. design and engineering firm Gordon Murray Design Ltd. and Japanese carbon-fiber specialist Toray Industries have built a lightweight electric-powered two-seater called the Teewave AR.1.