Mercedes Benz C Class Front Bumper Grille/screen Oem Amg 2038851053 on 2040-parts.com

Volvo makes breakthrough in battery tech

Volvo has developed a new way of ‘storing’ energy for its future electric vehicles. The Swedish firm is exploring the concept of lightweight structural energy storage components made from carbonfibre, containing “nano structured batteries and super capacitors.” This technology is said to offer a lighter, more compact solution to the problem of energy storage, potentially removing the need for the heavy, bulky batteries used in current electric vehicles. On Bing: see pictures of the Volvo S80 Find out how much a used Volvo S80 costs on Auto Trader The investigation into the new technology is part of an EU-funded research project, undertaken by Volvo – the only major car manufacturer involved – and nine other organisations.

Chrysler/Lancia Ypsilon

To celebrate 25 years of the Lancia Ypsilon, the Fiat is set to launch an all new variant at the 81st Geneva motor show. Based on a stretched Fiat 500 platform, the Ypsilon boasts an extra 300mm between its front and rear wheels, improving rear legroom and allowing for the additional rear doors. Overall, the Ypsilon's exterior has grown by around 60mm in length, but the cars height has dropped by around 20mm.

AutoWeek's Keith Crain receives Mercedes Star Driver award

AutoWeek editor-in-chief Keith Crain recently received the Star Driver award from Mercedes-Benz, an honor that recognizes an individual who has made great contributions to motorsports and the automobile industry. Crain, shown at left with Geoff Day, director of communications at Mercedes-Benz USA, is the sixth recipient of the Star Driver honor. He joins the ranks of Sir Stirling Moss, John Fitch, Jochen Mass, Jesse Alexander and AutoWeek senior contributing editor Denise McCluggage.