Vintage Oldsmobile Hubcap on 2040-parts.com

Car Design Awards China 2013 contest launches

未来，中国设计 Future car designers in China are again being challenged to meet the needs of the future by entering the CDN competition which is dedicated to identifying the most promising talent. The fourth annual Car Design Awards China is now open, and entries are invited from students of any design discipline who are studying full time at a college in China. They will work to briefs set by the design chiefs of brands including Audi, JAC, Qoros, Volvo Trucks and Volkswagen.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430 and DB9 Carbon for 2014 Geneva Motor Show

Aston Martin will show off special new versions of the V8 Vantage and the DB9 at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March. The updates to the two model ranges are very different in character, however. The V8 Vantage N430 is a race-inspired special with more power and less weight – not to mention a somewhat shouty paint job – while the DB9 Carbon Black and Carbon White models are intended to bring a little extra luxury and style to the British marque’s Grand Touring model.

Lotus Group CEO Dany Bahar suspended, facing investigation

Lotus Group chief executive officer Dany Bahar has been suspended and is facing an investigation following an undisclosed conduct complaint. While there is no official word on the nature of the complaint against Bahar, the The Daily Telegraph reports that it might be related to expenses claimed by Bahar or a legal dispute surrounding renovations on one of two Norwich, England, rental homes paid for by Lotus. Bahar's suspension has heightened the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Lotus Group.