Sullivan Intake Manifold on 2040-parts.com

Concept Car of the Week: Honda Kiwami (2003)

As part of Honda's exploration into new, clean-performing technologies, the Kiwami concept was created to test public acceptance of the idea of a large, fuel cell-powered luxury sedan.  Unveiled in 2003, the simple yet striking design seemed like a Japanese twist on the Renault Vel Satis concept, which shared a similar wedge profile, wide stance and minimalist approach.  However, the Kiwami found its own interpretation of modern luxury, expressed through elegantly integrated technology rather than with crystal champagne glasses.  Up front, a full-width LED strip headlamp sat flush with the flat bonnet and the rectangular bumper to create a design of primitive beauty.  Further examples of the same simple Japanese aesthetic are found around the car, including the uncluttered body panels and a full-width tail-lamp graphic that matched the front theme.  The dramatic proportions of the interior were closely related to the package of the hydrogen power plant. Unlike other manufacturers at the time, Honda engineers did not create a 'skateboard' fuel cell chassis below the cabin. Instead, a sideways H-shaped layout for the control unit, ultracapacitor, fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage and other components was used, helping to create a lower center of gravity.

Saab on the road to independence

You’ve got to feel for Scandinavian car makers Saab and Volvo. Both swallowed up by big US car makers, and both now being abandoned in a vulnerable position after years of integrating their once independent products in to their parents infrastructure, they must wake up every day wondering if this is the day it all goes bang. Ford is simply trying (increasingly desperately) to off-load Volvo, but GM, which is in a much more precarious position than Ford, has now abandoned its Swedish child in a desperate attempt to appease Congress and survive.

New Peugeot 208 engine options confirmed

2012 Peugeot 208 Engines Confirmed The engine line-up for the new 2012 Peugeot 208 has been confirmed for the UK with a choice of five diesel and five petrol engines. It’s been a couple of months since the 2012 Peugeot 208 was revealed, but Peugeot has finally confirmed the extensive engine line-up for the 2012 208, and unsurprisingly the focus is on economy and emissions, with four of the diesel engines available hitting the increasingly uncredible 99g/km, and the smallest petrol engine managing the same feat. The 68bhp 1.4 litre diesel manages to be very frugal when it comes to emissions – especially with stop-start fitted – with emissions of just 87g/km and an average of 83.1mpg.