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Porsche announces new Weissach design center and wind tunnel

Porsche is to invest around €150m into its Weissach development facility, including a new design center. The plans also include an electronics integration department and a state-of-the art, on-site wind tunnel, which is hoped will allow the company to realize an holistic approach to efficient design, with a strong focus on aerodynamics. When we spoke with head of Porsche design, Michael Mauer, at this year's Paris motor show, he also alluded to the fact that the Volkswagen Group's – and, more specifically, Walter de'Silva's – recent influence on the German manufacturer was shifting its attitudes: "The Volkswagen Group has a very good understanding of how much freedom a brand needs to keep its characteristics and with [Walter] as 'conductor', I feel a lot of support with design issues within the company," explained Mauer.

RSPB adopts electric car technology

THE RSPB is moving to reduce its carbon footprint by taking delivery of a new Renault Zoe electric car. The white-painted Zoe will join a Kangoo Z.E. at the charity’s Bedfordshire base, with another of the all-electric Kangoos based in London.

New Chevrolet Caprice tuned to police needs

The new Chevrolet Caprice police patrol vehicle will hit the streets in April 2011, and orders from departments will begin in January. The Caprice will join the Impala and the Tahoe as the bow-tie brand's offerings for police. The new Chevy will feature a 6.0-liter V8 engine pumping out 355 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque.