Ken Block rolls out Ford Fiesta hybrid race car

Driver and rally racer Ken Block introduced his latest vehicular weapon on Monday. The Hybrid Function Hoon Vehicle (HFHV) is not a hybrid in the traditional gas/electric sense, but instead is able to transform itself to compete in various race disciplines. The HFHV Fiesta will compete in three distinct disciplines--stage rally, rallycross and gymkhana events.

Nissan to open new studio in Beijing

After last week's announcement of leadership changes at Nissan's North American and European design centers, Nissan Investment Co., Ltd (NCIC), a Nissan subsidiary in China, today revealed plans to expand its global design resources with the establishment of a new design studio in Beijing. "With the addition of 20 designers, Nissan's new studio will enhance our design capabilities, as well as our product competitiveness in China and Asia where the automotive industry continues to see robust growth," said Shiro Nakamura, chief creative officer and senior vice president of design and brand. "Locating the studio where our customers live and work allows us to best respond to their needs and design vehicles that exceed their expectations." Scheduled to open early in 2011, the studio in the Chao Yang district of Beijing will be the first design facility in China established by a Japanese automaker.

Labour Pushes For Kids-In-Car Smoking Ban

IN A MOVE that could see drivers responsible for ensuring all passengers stub out their cigarettes when in the presence of children, smoking in cars carrying children could become illegal if a vote in the House of Lords is passed. As part of an amendment to the Children and Families Bill, Labour wants to see a specific offence created to discourage people from smoking around children. Crucially, the amendment would make it an offence for drivers of private vehicles to fail to prevent smoking when a child is present.