Honda Odyssey 2001 Rear Left Combination Lamp [3415600] on 2040-parts.com

It’s a BMW i8 eDrive Spyder: Beijing 2012

BMW i8 eDrive Spyder BMW has revealed the convertible i8 Spyder in Beijing complete with a new moniker - eDrive – to denote plug-in. We knew the BMW i8 Spyder was getting its public debut at the Beijing Motor Show this week because BMW told us. What we didn’t know is that BMW would be adding more confusing nomenclature to their eco i-brand.

Mercedes’ AMG division unveils new twin-turbo V8

Those obsessed with torque bemoaned Mercedes’ high-revving 6.2-litre V8 when it was launched in 2005, but just as the world has come to accept the naturally aspirated engine, the company has now unveiled a new twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8. Up to 563bhp – which is the same as the SLS AMG – and 663lb ft, which is much more than the 479lb ft the modern-day Gullwing supercar manages. The engine is an all-new 5.5-litre V8 (5461cc to be exact) with direct-injection technology, an aluminium crankcase and two turbochargers.

University students learn product development at Eco Car Challenge

The Eco Car Challenge spring workshop had a flavor of cutting-edge environmental technologies in advanced prototypes--developed by students. The event, at the Environmental Protection Agency's laboratory in Ann Arbor, Mich., allowed journalists to get behind the wheel of these test cars. It was part of a competition among 16 North American universities to design, develop and build vehicles that are forward-looking yet practical.