Magnaflow Catalytic Converter 16454 Ford Mustang on 2040-parts.com

Most smokers want ban in cars

NINE OUT of 10 (89%) of smokers say lighting up a cigarette or any form of tobacco should be banned in cars. Following on from the Welsh government’s announcement that it would outlaw smoking in cars where there are children as passengers, a study shows evens smokers think puffing on a cigarette in a car is not acceptable. Research carried out by Flexed shows 89% of smokers support a complete ban and 96% of non-smokers believe smoking in cars should be outlawed.

Honda Gear Concept

Rather than fighting for headlines at NAIAS, Honda debuted its new GEAR Concept at the Montreal International Auto Show. The subcompact GEAR is apparently inspired by fixed-gear bicycles (although quite how is unclear), described as a customizable vehicle that demonstrates the carmaker's way of providing vehicles for young, urban, Gen-Y lifestyles. "Subcompact cars are usually either utilitarian, but uninspiring or they're fun, zippy cars that are impractical and too expensive for the Gen-Y buyer," said Dave Marek, Design Director at Honda R&D Americas, Inc.

Video: Opel Insignia

After months of teaser photos, GM's Opel division has finally taken the wraps off its new Insignia sedan. Featuring a flowing design demarcated by a coupé-like roofline, the body is accented by a distinctive 'blade' feature line that runs from behind the front wheel along the side of the car, emphasizing its taut, rakish lines. "We've re-defined our design vocabulary," says Mark Adams, Vice President Design, GM Europe.