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Skoda reveals baby hot hatch

By Phil McNamara/Georg Kacher Motor Industry 19 September 2006 10:16 Skoda is making a bid to lead devlopment on the Volkswagen group's new small car, by unveiling this dynamic three-door design study, the Joyster. The sub-Fabia sized hatchback would take on cars like the Citroen C2 and 2008 Ford Ka replacement. Skoda says the Joyster has decent interior space, and an airy feel thanks to a full-length sunroof.

Fisker expects to partner with automakers

Fisker Automotive's CEO, warning of the pitfalls facing independent small automakers, says the luxury plug-in hybrid manufacturer is poised to partner with other automakers next year. Tony Posawatz, Fisker's CEO and former chief engineer of the Chevrolet Volt, told Automotive News that Fisker is in talks for three potential deals in which executives at the "highest levels" of the companies involved are "talking specifics." "We are absolutely committed to making this company win longer term, and the history of smaller companies living on their own in the automotive business is not stellar," Posawatz said in an interview. "We are not going to go it alone." Posawatz said alliance deals could be completed within the next year.

GM unveils electric Cadillac Converj concept at the Detroit auto show

General Motors pulled perhaps a surprise at the Detroit Auto Show Sunday morning, unveiling an eye-catching two-door Cadillac concept powered by a "future evolution" of the Chevrolet Volt's electric powertrain. Called the Converj, the Cadillac will have a range of 40 miles on electricity, with a potential total range of 700 miles after a generator kicks in. GM says the powertrain, formerly known as E-Flex, is now called Voltec, and could be used in a variety of applications.