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The Future Role of the Vehicle Designer

The vehicle design department at the Royal College of Art hosted the second in a series of five lectures looking at the future of the profession last week. Moving on from the previous week's topic of sustainability, this debate explored the future roles and responsibilities of the vehicle designer. Head of department Dale Harrow began by posing the question "Is it time to rethink – do we still need the car?" Although still relevant, Harrow's ultimate answer to this was that the profession was about to see marked change, with the end to an era where "designers are locked behind closed doors in studios".

Clean cars make us happy

A CLEAN CAR makes us feel happier and three out of four drivers say a spotless car makes them feel better about themselves. In a survey by car wash specialists IMO, 74% of drivers reported a shiny car was a quick way to make themselves happier, while only a minority said they would ‘rather boil their head’ than get their car washed. Young drivers are the most likely to improve their mood with a car wash, with 85% saying a shiny car gives them a boost.

Porsche 911 Carrera S Powerkit offers 424 bhp

Porsche is offering a Powerkit for the Carrera S with 424bhp and an Aerokit Cup bodykit for the faux GT3 look. The 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera has only been with us for five minutes but already Porsche are offering more power and some add-on aero bits for a bit of a faux GT3 experience for new 911 owners. On the power front, Porsche Exclusive is offering a Powerkit for the 911 Carrera S which ups its power to 430hp (424bhp) from the regular 400hp.