Genuine Audi Valve Cover 06e-103-471-p on 2040-parts.com

Jaguar C-X75: Jaguar’s Hypercar stillborn

The Jaguar C-X75 hybrid hypercar will not go in to production. Jaguar cite the poor economic outlook is behind the decision to scrap the C-X75. But the gas turbines soon bit the dust as Jaguar realised the technology was just not mature enough for a production car, so they replaced the gas turbines with a 1.6 litre turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine charging the batteries that powered the two electric motors, one on each axle.

Aston Martin in talks with Mercedes for engine supply

It has seemed for some time that Aston Martin’s wish-list for future engines revolved around Mercedes. They currently use a V12 developed from Ford’s Mondeo V6 and a V8 that’s a development of the 4.2 litre that was in Jaguars (and Range Rovers) until a few years ago, but new engines (and new platforms) are vital if Aston are to remain competitive. Before the recent investment in AML by Investindustrial, there were plans for Aston to use both engines and platforms from Mercedes (the Lagonda SUV was built on the underpinnings of the Mercedes GL) and even the possibility that Aston Martin would design and build the next generation Maybach.

At GM, the tail fin is back--but now it's a blade

Tail fins are making a comeback at General Motors Co., although they are a far cry from the saillike appendages of the 1950s. And this time the company is calling them blades. The look, pioneered on the Chevrolet Volt to improve aerodynamics, will appear on other models to boost fuel economy, said Ed Welburn, GM's global design chief.