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GM preps for new engines, 8-speed transmission

General Motors is spending $332 million to upgrade powertrain plants in three states to build a new eight-speed automatic transmission, a new V6 and a new family of small-displacement gasoline engines. The plants are in Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. GM is also adding $46 million to an earlier $600 million program to upgrade powertrain plants in Saginaw and Romulus, Mich.

Future products: Buick sees 6 to 7 models in its lineup for 2011-13

A Buick LaCrosse hybrid sedan probably will join a new small car and new crossover as Buick expands its lineup in the next three model years. The brand, which sells four nameplates now, eventually wants a six- or seven-vehicle lineup, says John Schwegman, Buick-GMC's top marketer. Buick seeks to revive its reputation for performance and stylish luxury to appeal to middle-aged professionals who often buy Asian luxury brands.

Renault Twizy Lab Design contest winners

The winners of Renault Z.E's Twizy Lab Design contest have been announced. The competition, which called for new and original concept designs for the Renault ZE Twizy's plastic body panels, was won by Maria Rosaria. Her submission, 'Candy', explores the use of multiple colors spread over a the Twizy's main panels, turning them into an artist's canvas.