Simpson 42086 10 Ft Crossform Nomex Parachute Pack, Black on 2040-parts.com

Vauxhall Cascada Convertible: Aimed at hairdressers?

Vauxhall are teasing a new convertible – the Vauxhall Cascada – that appears to be Astra based but stretched and pushed upmarket. We knew Vauxhall (and Opel, for that matter), were planning a replacement for the Astra Twin Top which we guessed would be the new Astrra Cabrio. But it’s not, it’s the Vauxhall Cascada.

Hyundai HCD-14 Genesis Concept: 2013 Detroit Auto Show

The Hyundai HCD-14 Genesis Concept has been revealed at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, previewing the next generation of Hyundai’s premium offerings. Hyundai has now revealed the HCD-14 Genesis Concept in Detroit and there’s little doubt that this is the next Hyundai Genesis, albeit with a chunk of concept fripperies thrown in to titillate. Concept fripperies like the rear suicide doors and enormous carbon fibre wheels seem likely to be lost in the production version of the new Genesis (although Hyundai may surprise us) but it seems likely that the overall styling will come through, just as it has on many of Hyundai’s recent concepts (unless Peter Schreyer has a play now he’s in charge of Hyundai design).

Volkswagen plans 4 million cars from one platform

Volkswagen is pushing the global-platform concept to a level unprecedented in the auto industry, introducing a modular platform this summer that eventually will be the basis of microcars, sedans, crossovers and SUVs for its four largest brands. While automakers now share platforms across brands and sometimes even segments, the VW initiative that starts this summer is far more ambitious than anything seen so far. By 2017, some analysts estimate, the MQB platform that debuts with the Audi A3 eventually will be used in 4 million units a year--close to half of VW's annual production.