Rox Wheels Center Cap Cap977-5x114 Chrome 5 3/8" New on 2040-parts.com

Carbon-fiber parts and a software fix help create a lighter, faster Fiat

Chrysler Group's Mopar parts brand and Italian supplier Magneti Marelli have teamed up on a design exercise based on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth that shaved weight and added horsepower. The vehicle, called the Venom, has a number of carbon fiber components -- hood and side mirrors, for example -- that makes it about 200 pounds lighter than the 2,512-pound Abarth. The Venom uses software updates and additional exhaust components to boost the Abarth's standard 160-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged engine's output by as much as 25 percent.

Puzzling Parking Signs 'Confuse' Motorists

A NEW survey has revealed that parking signs confuse motorists, to the point that it can lead to drivers being penalised for their unintended transgressions. The poll, conducted by car insurance company Churchill, found that of those fined, clamped or who had their vehicle towed away in the last two years, 22% said they were unable to understand the parking restrictions in that area. Also, 41% of the 2,001 people polled said parking signs in their area were confusing, while 33% avoided parking in their local town or city centre for this very reason In addition, the puzzling signs led to 9% avoiding parking around their own residential area.

De Tomaso Deauville: The De Tomaso formerly known as SLC. And SLS

The new De Tomaso has a name - De Tomaso Deauville So the De Tomaso formerly known as the De Tomaso SLC, and then dubbed the De Tomaso SLS by its octegenarion saviour now has a proper De Tomaso-style name – the De Tomaso Deauville. Which is all fine and dandy – and sounds a lot better than naming the new Tomato* after past and present Mercedes – but seems an odd name to give a cumbersome crossover come SUV come BMW GT wanabee. Why odd, you ask?