Garmin Gps Map 531s W/ Blue Chart G2 Vision--new In Box! on 2040-parts.com

Carbon-fiber parts and a software fix help create a lighter, faster Fiat

Chrysler Group's Mopar parts brand and Italian supplier Magneti Marelli have teamed up on a design exercise based on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth that shaved weight and added horsepower. The vehicle, called the Venom, has a number of carbon fiber components -- hood and side mirrors, for example -- that makes it about 200 pounds lighter than the 2,512-pound Abarth. The Venom uses software updates and additional exhaust components to boost the Abarth's standard 160-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged engine's output by as much as 25 percent.

Citroen Technospace concept car (2013) first pictures

Don't be fooled by the concept car ruse: this is the new Citroen C4 Picasso in almost showroom-ready spec. Citroen hasn't even gone to the trouble of fitting massive wheels and cameras for mirrors to play up the concept car claim. This is Citroen's next compact MPV, due on sale in the second half of 2013. Citroen Technospace concept: the need-to-know The next Citroen C4 Picasso will use the company's lighter 'EMP2' underpinnings.

Tesla Model S first EV to earn high praise from Consumer Reports

Tesla Motors Inc.'s all-electric Model S sports car received the highest score in Consumer Reports' ratings -- a 99 out of 100 -- along with widespread plaudits from the magazine's automotive testing staff. The magazine said the $89,650 EV it tested "performed better, or just as well overall, as any other vehicle -- of any kind -- ever tested by Consumer Reports." The last vehicle to achieve a score of 99 in the magazine's testing was the Lexus LS 460L, which was tested in 2007. The Model S, which went on sale in 2012, also marks the first time any electric vehicle has earned a score that high, the magazine said Thursday.