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Design Contest: Michelin Challenge Design announces 2008 theme and call for entries

Michelin Challenge Design, one of the world's fastest growing transportation design programs, has announced it will continue its focus on safety in 2008 under the central theme of 'Safety over Size.' The 2008 theme was announced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit showcased works from vehicle manufacturers, students, as well as the first full-size concept to be submitted by an independent entrant. Rising energy costs, urban congestion and environmental concerns are all contributing to an increased interest in smaller vehicles, but consumers are often hesitant to consider smaller vehicles due to safety concerns that are both real and perceived. Participating designers are encouraged to 'throw away the book' and to present ideas that enhance the real and perceived safety and security of smaller vehicles through design innovations in areas such as accident avoidance, enhanced driver controls, survivability and visibility.

Motorcycle makers revved for rebound

Bikes are back. After being hit a lot harder by the recession than carmakers, the motorcycle industry, more susceptible to the whims of discretionary spending, is on its way back. “Unit sales are growing for the first time in several years,” said Danny Phillips, executive vice president of Advanstar, the parent company of Progressive International, which put on last weekend's motorcycle show at the Long Beach Convention Center.

Labour Pushes For Kids-In-Car Smoking Ban

IN A MOVE that could see drivers responsible for ensuring all passengers stub out their cigarettes when in the presence of children, smoking in cars carrying children could become illegal if a vote in the House of Lords is passed. As part of an amendment to the Children and Families Bill, Labour wants to see a specific offence created to discourage people from smoking around children. Crucially, the amendment would make it an offence for drivers of private vehicles to fail to prevent smoking when a child is present.