Stewart Warner 111415 Pyrometer on 2040-parts.com

BMW M3 Convertible (2008): first official pictures

By Stephen Dobie First Official Pictures 18 January 2008 15:08 The M3 family has swelled further with BMW’s announcement of the new convertible version - and a twin-clutch gearbox. This is the first M3 with a folding metal hardtop, and the first with BMW's new transmission. It's a new seven-speed gearbox called M DCT gearbox – a double-clutch affair (like VW's seven-speed DSG) allowing near-instant changes, with little drop in power.

Chevrolet Spark EV revealed

The Chevrolet Spark EV – an electric version of the Spark – has been revealed ahead of the Los Angles Auto Show this week with a 130hp electric motor. Key to the appeal of the new Chevy Spark EV is the sort of power and performance you’d normally only see in a little hot hatch. The Spark EV comes with an electric motor that churns out 130hp and a massive 400lb/ft of torque.

New Stratos (w/ Gallery)

After weeks of speculation, the official story and pictures of the reborn Lancia Stratos – officially named 'New Stratos' – have been revealed. While the car's design and concept are obviously related to the 2005 Fenomenon Stratos – a venture headed by RCA graduate Chris Hrabalek – design and development have been completed by Pininfarina. Initially headed by Jason Castriota before he left – ironically for the original Lancia Stratos' birthplace, Bertone – Luca Borgogno completed the exterior and interior design.