[8]arctic Cat Front Spar - Blk Rh; Part #: 8611-514 on 2040-parts.com

IDSA's 3D-printed car design contest gets underway

Aspiring designers have the chance to see their 3D-printed car designs launched down a miniature model of a ski jump and crash in the Launch Day 2013 competition due to take place at the 2013 IDSA conference, which runs from 21-24 August. Up to five designs can be entered for free until 12 August in the competition, organized by The Industrial Designers Society of America. All submissions will then be judged for both aesthetics and for "using unique attributes of 3D printing" which will whittle them down to just 10 designs that will be printed before the launch.

Video: Track-day fun in the Lexus LFA

As promised, the third installment in our supercar video extravaganza--after the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the Porsche GT2 RS--gives you the lowdown on the hyperexotic Lexus LFA and its insane 552-hp V10 powerplant. Best described by senior editor for motorsports Mac Morrison as "shrieking like a melting witch," the Lexus LFA emits a wail unlike anything this side of a Formula One racer, and its performance isn't too far off that mark, either. Check out the walk-around and some on-track fun, then come back for the VBox lap on Friday.

In NYC's cab contest, vans aim to be seen

Nissan North America Inc., Ford Motor Co. and a little-known Turkish vehicle manufacturer are in a three-way competition to supply the next generation of taxis to New York City. The winner will snare a large fleet deal: more than 13,000 vehicles delivered over the next three to five years, with a 10-year exclusive agreement from the city.