Gates 43542 Water Pump-water Pump (standard) on 2040-parts.com

Concept Car of the Week: Honda Kiwami (2003)

As part of Honda's exploration into new, clean-performing technologies, the Kiwami concept was created to test public acceptance of the idea of a large, fuel cell-powered luxury sedan.  Unveiled in 2003, the simple yet striking design seemed like a Japanese twist on the Renault Vel Satis concept, which shared a similar wedge profile, wide stance and minimalist approach.  However, the Kiwami found its own interpretation of modern luxury, expressed through elegantly integrated technology rather than with crystal champagne glasses.  Up front, a full-width LED strip headlamp sat flush with the flat bonnet and the rectangular bumper to create a design of primitive beauty.  Further examples of the same simple Japanese aesthetic are found around the car, including the uncluttered body panels and a full-width tail-lamp graphic that matched the front theme.  The dramatic proportions of the interior were closely related to the package of the hydrogen power plant. Unlike other manufacturers at the time, Honda engineers did not create a 'skateboard' fuel cell chassis below the cabin. Instead, a sideways H-shaped layout for the control unit, ultracapacitor, fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage and other components was used, helping to create a lower center of gravity.

Volvo set to excite with new Concept XC Coupe

VOLVO’S new design language has been taken to the next level with the first glimpse of a concept that previews its future ‘XC’ series of cars. The Concept XC Coupe will be given its full debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January, but Volvo has released a trio of pictures as a teaser ahead of time. In each of the pictures the car is capped by a slimline roof box, which hints at its lifestyle aspirations.

Aston Martin allows fans to pick livery on GT3

Aston Martin announced a contest for North American fans last week that would have the winner design the racing livery for the Aston Martin Vantage GT3 that will compete in the Rolex Grand-Am series. TRG-AMR has two concepts approved already; fans will design the third. Contestants can log on to TRG's Facebook page page and submit a design.