Polaris 1019528-329 Asm - Bracket Drive Interface Black on 2040-parts.com

Miko's high performance material with an ecological edge

Italian company Miko specializes in the development and production of Dinamica, a high quality ecological microfiber that can be used for anything from car door panels or upholstery to fashion accessories. The faux suede material is produced from a combination of recycled polyester and polyurethane fibers, and is also 100 percent recyclable at the end of its lifecycle. Lorenzo Terraneo, CEO of Miko, says: "Our priority has always been to invest in the research and development of recycled and eco-compatible materials with special characteristics that go far beyond existing qualitative standards." It is a testament to Terraneo's commitment that his company achieved its early aspirations and eco credentials long before concern for the environment and the reduction of carbon emissions was high on the political agenda or prevalent in the public conscience.

Opel Trixx concept for the Geneva Motor Show

Opel/Vauxhall has released first details of the Trixx small car concept to be shown at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Martin Smith, Opel/Vauxhall executive director of design, says: "Trixx shows our vision of an innovative, ultra-compact car in the three-metre-class, with an expressive, exciting design, and meets a variety of mobility requirements with its clever, highly versatile interior concept." Trixx has an inflatable rear seat, sliding electric doors, and a push-button roof hatch that allows it to carry extra-long objects upright. The versatile car can carry up to three adults and a child, and as a one-seater it turns into a substantial load carrier.

Mazda BT-50 pick-up truck (2010) news, photos

Mazda is unveiling its new Mazda BT-50 pick-up at the 2010 Australian International Motor Show this week. As befits a car launched in Oz, the new BT-50 is a lifestyle pick-up or ute aimed as much at the leisure market as brickies.   Previously, Mazda had only issued the design sketch above, but today the company issued the first official pictures of its new truck. There's been a gaping hole in Mazda's UK line-up this year as the previous model was on run-out; the BT-50 used to sell in reasonable numbers, but waning sales and shifting tax systems have made the pick-up market shrink and Mazda only sells a few hundred here in a typical year.That's why there are no plans to launch the new BT-50 in the UK – despite it being homologated for Europe.These first official photos show the new BT-50 offers an interpretation of Mazda's family face with the sweeping five-pointed grille and sweptback headlamps.