New Meyle Steering Idler Arm Bushing Kit, 2024600319 on 2040-parts.com

MIT researchers rethink electric-car batteries

Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology say a new battery design for electric vehicles could be a lightweight and inexpensive alternative. The goal for the team's three-year project, launched in September 2010, is to have a functioning prototype ready to be engineered as a replacement for existing electric-car batteries. At this point in the project, the prototype uses a “semi-solid flow” to separate the two functions of a battery--storing energy and discharging it when needed--into separate physical structures.

Subaru’s rear-drive sports car (2011) at 2011 Geneva motor show

While Toyota unveiled a revised version of its FT-86 sports car at the 2011 Geneva motor show, Subaru chose to only preview the powertrain of its 'Toyobaru' rear-drive sports coupe. Subaru and Toyota are developing the car together, and each will produce a version of the rear-drive coupe in 2012, but so far it’s been Toyota that’s grabbed all the limelight. Yes, though Subaru was originally due to show a full concept version of its RWD sports car at Geneva, but has instead only revelead the powertrain and basic body shape – not the best move, as the Toyota looks good, and without body panels you only imagine this Scooby version to have bland, flat body panels. The engine is a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre flat four, and the car rides on 17in wheels.

Honda recalls 310,773 Pilots for seatbelt issue

Honda is recalling 310,773 copies of the Pilot SUV to fix a problem that could make the driver's or passenger's seatbelts unreliable in a crash. Honda says a manufacturing error with the belts could mean that stitching on some of the models is incomplete where the lap section is connected to the outer anchor, which could cause the belt components to disconnect in an accident. The recall affects 2009- to 2011-model-year Pilots.