Yamaha Grizzly 660 4x4 Yfm660 2003-2008 L-sidefront Brake Assembly. on 2040-parts.com

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.

GM’s Henderson offers a ray of hope for Sky, Solstice

There appears to be a slight glimmer of hope for fans of the Saturn Sky and the Pontiac Solstice. CEO Fritz Henderson said that General Motors would be willing to sell its Wilmington, Del., plant, which builds the Sky and the Solstice--two eye-catching performance cars--if a buyer specifically wanted those niche products, similar to what Chrysler offered with its Dodge Viper business.

BMW Gran Lusso design explained in Pininfarina video

The two-door BMW Gran Lusso took center stage at the 2013 Villa d'Este Concourso d'Eleganza in Italy last weekend. The Pininfarina-designed, V12-equipped coupe could herald the return of the company's mighty 8-series Bimmers that rolled the streets in the 1990s. Pininfarina posted two videos of the BMW Gran Lusso on its YouTube channel on Wednesday.