BMW: Carbon fiber goes high volume in 2013

BMW AG plans to begin high-volume production of carbon fiber parts in two years, making it a strong contender to be the first automaker to move beyond limited-edition use of the exotic material. But Daimler AG, which has taken steps aimed at making carbon fiber parts in 2012, is among the automakers racing toward the same goal. In 2013, BMW will start building the i3 electric car, a vehicle that features a passenger cell--the protective shell around the passenger compartment that ensures the integrity of the vehicle in a crash--made of plastic reinforced with carbon fiber.

Ferrari F150 / F70: Details confirmed

Ferrari has confirmed more details of the Enzo successor – the Ferrari F70 / F70 – in the Ferrari Magazine and their web site. As we’ve already reported today that the McLaren P1′s design is almost the same as the concept P1, we thought we should also report on the latest news on the McLaren’s biggest rival – the Ferrari F70 / F150 – now Ferrari has confirmed more detail. Most of what Ferrari has revealed on their web site (and in the latest edition of the Ferrari Magazine) has already been speculated upon, but now we know from the (prancing) horse’s mouth some of the technical details, as well as the look of the new Ferrari from the recent tease of the F70/F150.

Who's Where: GM Design announces major global restructuring of design executives

GM Design has announced a major reshuffle of its global leadership team, with Mark Adams, current executive director of Global Cadillac and Buick Design and GME vice president of Design, amongst the movers. Designed to boost the emphasis of the carmaker's various brands, including Buick and Opel, the restructuring – which comes into effect on 1 September – will focus on improving joint strategies, theme development and innovation. Mark Adams will head back to Germany to take up the position as GME vice president of Design and champion for Opel/Buick brand strategies and design language.