97 Skylark Sun Visor/shade 114840 on 2040-parts.com

Mini John Cooper Works GP special edition announced

The first Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works GP was produced in 2006 to mark the end of the first generation of the Mini developed by BMW. Only 2,000 were produced. Mini is bringing the GP name back in 2012, in the same limited amount, with the cars arriving at dealerships later this year.

Reproducing reality – X-Rite’s Total Appearance Capture

Total Appearance Capture isn't some sinister new form of identity theft but a revolutionary method of digitizing physical models using a new scanning technology, with the ability to capture extraordinary detail and all input and output light. The system, from coatings color measurement experts X-Rite, combines color, texture, gloss and other surface characteristics into a digital material ‘description' that can be imported directly to computer-aided design programs. What sets it apart from previously available methods is its ability to collect information on complex materials such as textiles, leather, basketwork, stone, coatings and plated finishes, in a 3D scene lit by a virtual studio environment.

CCTV 'Spy cars' to be banned

CCTV "SPY CARS" used to catch people who park illegally is to be banned, the Government announced, marking a victory for drivers and shoppers. The move will rein in "greedy councils" who use the method of fining as a "cash cow", and bring to an end the "plague" of tickets being issued by post. Parking wardens will instead have to fix tickets directly to windscreens, making it illegal for councils to issue penalties to drivers using just the CCTV spy cars currently used for on-street parking enforcement.