Yamaha 4c8-27443-00-00 4c8-27443-00-00 Bracket 3 on 2040-parts.com

Designer insights: highlights of Auto Design Prague 2014

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, might not seem the most obvious choice for an automotive design conference. But when one considers the country's history of innovation in the arts and architecture, its long-lived automotive marques like Tatra and Skoda, and Prague's central location in Europe, it makes perfect sense. Conference speakers included the program design director for Citroën DS, Ivo Groen; Volvo vice president of design Thomas Ingenlath; Jaguar advanced design director, Julian Thomson; Gert Hildebrand, head of design for Qoros; and Johann Lemercier, program manager at Ferrari design.

Chrysler, Mopar hope Ram Runner kit can challenge Ford SVT Raptor

In an effort to compete with the Ford SVT Raptor off-road pickup, Chrysler and parts group Mopar have released the Ram Runner kit. The Mopar Ram Runner kit, available for owners of 2009-2011 Dodge Ram 1500 models, can be installed at home or by the dealer for a total parts cost of just less than $20,000. The Ram Runner upgraders on a budget can add kit elements individually as well.

Rinspeed XchangE concept rethinks the autonomous car's cabin

Rinspeed's XchangE all-electric touring sedan concept has been confirmed for the Geneva motor show, and focuses on how future drivers will spend their time in autonomous cars. Founder Frank M. Rinderknecht says, "So far hardly anyone has taken this to its logical conclusion from the perspective of the driver.