Ferrari California (2008): first official pictures

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 29 May 2008 08:30 This is the Ferrari California – the new 2+2 GT unveiled today. There’s a seven-speed twin-clutch transmission, a 454bhp 4.3-litre V8 with direct injection, a folding metal roof and space for four. Right, concrete numbers on the Ferrari California please… The engine is a 4300cc V8, using the existing block from the F430 but with a new head to accommodate direct injection. It’s the first time Ferrari has used DI and helps the California produce 454bhp at a heady 7500rpm.

Winners of the 'Ultimate LA Machine' Design Challenge announced

 The judges of the Los Angeles Auto Show's Design Challenge have named the Dodge Superbee and Volkswagen Mobile Lounge as joint-winners of the first ever automobile design studio competition. Designer Reto Brun of Volkswagen/Audi Design Center California said his studio considered two Los Angeles issues when designing the Volkswagen Mobile Lounge - an antidote to traffic and a better option for the area's "limo-centric" entertainment culture. Whisper-quiet fuel cell technology whisks occupants towards their destination while electronically controlled tinted glass, an open living space and innumerable in-car amenities provide a supremely comfortable environment.

Toyota to replace the gas pedals on 3.8 million recalled vehicles

Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it will replace the accelerator pedals on 3.8 million vehicles involved in the company's largest recall ever. The models involved are: -- 2007 to 2010 model year Camry -- 2005 to 2010 Avalon -- 2004 to 2009 Prius -- 2005 to 2010 Tacoma -- 2007 to 2010 Tundra -- 2007 to 2010 Lexus ES 350 -- 2006 to 2010 Lexus IS 250 -- 2006 to 2010 Lexus IS 350.The company said it will reconfigure the shape of accelerator pedals to cut down on the risk that they may be jammed in the floor mat.