Maybach Sales Brochure 2004 Maybach 57 Maybach 62 on 2040-parts.com

For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

Hyundai i-Flow Concept at Geneva

The Hyundai i-Flow Concept will show at Geneva Hyundai – as we never tire of saying – is the new Toyota (which is a big compliment – despite the current Toyota Recall woes). It’s having the same impact on car markets worldwide as the Japanese car revolution of a few decades ago. Hyundai – and its sibling Kia – are making more and more convincing cars at relatively bargain prices and pushing both design and quality further upmarket all the time.

New McLaren F1 – rendered

A modern rendering of the McLaren F1 created by Matt Williams Many thought the 12C was a bit too generic. Almost a morphing of supercar styling from other makers. But in many ways that could be its long-term strength.