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McLaren MP4-12C gets the axe

Production of the McLaren 12C is dead. That's according to a letter sent by CEO Mike Flewitt to owners that read in part, “The final piece of news I wanted to share with you is regarding 12C production, which we have decided to cease in light of the success of 650S. The new car has been so well received since its unveiling at the Geneva motor show (we already have a six-month order bank), we will focus all our capacity at the McLaren Production Centre on 650S.” This represents a turnaround for the company that just a few days ago said the 650S would slot between the 12C and P1 in the lineup, and that both would continue.

RCA Citroen/Exa Double Challenge project

Second year students at the Royal College of Art in London revealed a series of projects at their interim degree show last week. Developed in collaboration with French automaker Citroen and the Exa Corporation, a leading supplier of aerodynamic software, the Double Challenge project asked students to design an ultra-compact model that could establish a unique Citroën e-vehicle aesthetic for the future, all while adhering to certain aerodynamic criteria that would not only reduce energy consumption and ensure stability at speed, but also visually communicate efficiency through its design. The project, which kicked off in October last year, was closely followed by representatives from Citroen and Exa, who examined each of the projects and chose a winner, Heikki Juvonen, at the event last week.

Lexus plans small crossover

Lexus plans to show a production-ready compact SUV to rival the Audi Q3 and BMW X1 at the 2014 Geneva motor show, a company source said. The hybrid model, which will be based on the redesigned Toyota RAV4, will slot below the Lexus RX 450h. It was unclear if or when the vehicle would come to North America.