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LA Auto Show Design Challenge theme: 'Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?'

The Los Angeles Auto Show has confirmed the theme for its annual Design Challenge. This year marks the eleventh time the contest has been held, and eight global design studios will each produce a concept to showcase a connected vehicle or interface system in response to the theme: 'Sensing the Future: How Will Cars Interact with Us In 2029?' The show's organizers have confirmed that BMW Group DesignworksUSA, Honda USA, Honda Japan, McLaren Automotive, Nissan, Peterbilt Motors, Qoros Auto, and SAIC Motor MG will all take part. "Los Angeles is one of the world's most dynamic cities constantly keeping its eye on the future of technological advancements that largely affect our daily lives," said Lisa Kaz, President of the LA Auto Show.

New Stratos (w/ Gallery)

After weeks of speculation, the official story and pictures of the reborn Lancia Stratos – officially named 'New Stratos' – have been revealed. While the car's design and concept are obviously related to the 2005 Fenomenon Stratos – a venture headed by RCA graduate Chris Hrabalek – design and development have been completed by Pininfarina. Initially headed by Jason Castriota before he left – ironically for the original Lancia Stratos' birthplace, Bertone – Luca Borgogno completed the exterior and interior design.

Mercedes A45 AMG (2013) first pictures of new hot hatch

This is the Mercedes A45 AMG: the first time Merc’s in-house tuning arm has tried its hand at building a hot hatch. Packing 355bhp, all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch paddleshift transmission, the A45 AMG will outpace a Porsche 911, but cost less than £40,000. It’s on UK sale from July 2013, but if you can’t wait that long, Merc’s baby barnstormer is appearing at the Geneva motor show from 5 March 2013.