Minn Kota Deckhand 40 Remote Switch 1810150 on 2040-parts.com

2015 Prius said to have even better fuel economy

The next Toyota Prius will get “significantly better fuel economy in a more compact package that is lighter weight and lower cost,” according to Satoshi Ogiso, the Prius program's chief engineer. Ogiso, who is also Toyota Motor Corp.'s managing officer, said the next-gen Prius' performance will reflect “significant advances” in battery, electric-motor and gas-engine technologies. He said Toyota is looking at improving miles per gallon to 55, compared with today's 50 mpg and that the next-generation Prius electric motors will be smaller and more powerful; in addition, its gasoline engine will be among the world's most efficient.

Fioravanti Thalia concept

Fioravanti will be represented at the Geneva Motor Show by this, the Thalia, named after one of the three Graces of Greek mythology. The rear hump means a staggered silhouette, reflecting the rear seating which has been elevated to accommodate 'the most recent alternative energy technology.' Along with its unusual architecture, the sketch also shows a unique graphic break, with the dominant sweep and rear-biased mass reminding a little of the Mazda Senku concept. It will be interesting to see the model in Geneva.

Nissan opens new North American design studio

Nissan Design America Inc. has opened a new design studio in Farmington Hills, Michigan, on the grounds of Nissan Technical Center North America. The $14 million investment represents an expansion of Nissan's design capabilities in Farmington Hills as well as a shift in design capabilities.