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BMW 7-series models hit by recall

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall of 45,500 BMW 7-series sedans in the 2005-2008 model year range. The recall, which has its origins in a NHTSA investigation initiated in August 2011, addresses a software malfunction that may cause vehicles to roll away when parked. A glitch in the BMW Comfort Access keyless-entry and ignition system is responsible for the problem.

Concept Car of the Week: Bertone Alfa Romeo Carabo

It might sound unbelievable today, but despite its racing pedigree and a voluptuous body designed by Franco Scaglione, Alfa Romeo was struggling to sell the outstanding 33 Stradale. Its heavy price tag was far above that of a Lamborghini Miura and also 120hp less powerful. By 1969, production was discontinued and only 18 examples had been made.

Porsche announces new Weissach design center and wind tunnel

Porsche is to invest around €150m into its Weissach development facility, including a new design center. The plans also include an electronics integration department and a state-of-the art, on-site wind tunnel, which is hoped will allow the company to realize an holistic approach to efficient design, with a strong focus on aerodynamics. When we spoke with head of Porsche design, Michael Mauer, at this year's Paris motor show, he also alluded to the fact that the Volkswagen Group's – and, more specifically, Walter de'Silva's – recent influence on the German manufacturer was shifting its attitudes: "The Volkswagen Group has a very good understanding of how much freedom a brand needs to keep its characteristics and with [Walter] as 'conductor', I feel a lot of support with design issues within the company," explained Mauer.