Raymarine St60 St60+ Masthead Wind Vane on 2040-parts.com

Design Services: Ficosa International

In the hierarchy of car design the exterior of a powerful sports car is usually regarded as the highest level whilst the design of some of the smaller functional components tends to sit at the bottom. But even for companies not obviously dependant on sexy curves to help them make money, design is increasingly being recognised as a critical ingredient for commercial success. Whilst most large suppliers have grown their design capability over the last decade, few have truly embraced the potential of having a focus on Design within their corporate strategy.

Toyota Camatte concept

Toyota is to display a family-oriented concept vehicle at the 2012 Tokyo Toy Show in order to promote cars to a new generation of potential drivers. The Camatte project is based around a customizable body with interchangeable body panels hung from a simple body structure and components that allows people to reengage with the inner workings of the motor car. It will be displayed in two configurations – Camatte Sora – the turquoise car – Camatte Daichi – the military-looking beige machine.

Young drivers risking lives by 'neglecting eyesight'

ONE IN SEVEN young drivers put themselves and other road users in danger because of poor vision and problems with their eyesight, according to a new study. The survey, conducted on behalf of thinkaboutyoureyes.co.uk found that those in the 18-24 age bracket were far more likely than older drivers to have problems driving because of bad vision. While more than half of drivers over 55 are required to wear glasses or corrective lenses when driving compared to just a third of young drivers, almost one in ten young drivers believe they actually probably should be wearing glasses when they drive.