Concept Car of the Week: AMC Amitron (1967)

While the American auto industry spent most of the late ‘60s creating huge barges powered by monstrous engines with loud decals on disco paint jobs, AMC believed in the future of compact cars, fuel economy, and go-faster stripes. Designed under Richard Teague's supervision, the quirky Amitron was unveiled in 1967 in a hotel in Detroit. Measuring less than 2,200mm long, it is 350mm shorter than a Smart Fortwo and its wide track gave room for three passengers seating abreast.

As Autumn Term Starts IAM Warns Drivers Of Distracted Youngsters

LEADING road safety charity the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has issued a warning to drivers to stay on their guard on their daily commute, as distracted youngsters make their way home from school at the start of the autumn term. Many schools in England return from the summer break this week, and as is the case each year the risk of an accident becomes significantly greater as the school run brings with it a 20 per cent growth in rush hour traffic. While much has been said about watching out for youngsters on their way to school, the IAM has warned that a greater risk comes on the way home from school – where under 16’s are more likely to be distracted by playing with their friends, listening to music or interacting on social media on their phones.

Suzuki seeks end to partnership with Volkswagen

Suzuki Motor Corp. Chairman Osamu Suzuki on Monday said he plans to end his carmaker's turbulent two-year capital alliance with Volkswagen AG, citing concerns about independence and a dearth of technological exchanges and joint projects from the tie up. The spry, 81-year-old Suzuki executive compared the breakup to a divorce and said the two companies should "say goodbye with a smile" instead of trading bitter accusations.