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Think you can talk and drive? Not so much…

It has been well documented that texting while driving is a risky practice that results in thousands of motor-vehicle deaths each year. But talking rather than texting isn't really a better alternative, according to experts at the National Safety Council. The council is hoping to better explain why driving and talking on a cell phone is so dangerous by examining how the brain works when faced with multiple cognitive tasks.

Seat IBX concept (2011) at 2011 Geneva motor show

On the eve of the 2011 Geneva motor show, Seat has unveiled this IBX crossover concept at the Volkswagen Group’s pre-show party. Designed under the watch of ex-Lamborghini designer Luc Donckerwolke, it’s the second concept car to preview Seat’s future design language, and a strong hint that company is preparing to launch a new, small SUV. Yes, and in 2010 we saw two versions of the IBE electric sports coupe – one without an interior, and one with.

Videos: Chris Bangle shares his views on design and the future of car design

Chris Bangle is a man that needs no introduction on these pages. Both revered and castigated, Bangle's work has undoubtedly been influential for a generation of designers. His unconventional practices – employed at a time when design was still largely segregated from other departments during the development process – yielded many avantgarde and contentious designs, but Bangle's fundamental understanding of the design process, creative vision and desire for change can never be cast in doubt. While Bangle shares his views on the future of the car in the video to the right, the video to the left provides an insight into the former BMW design chief's thought processes and gives us a glimpse into his home and studio in the Piedmont region of northern Italy.