Datsun N42 Cylinder Head on 2040-parts.com

Drivers unmoved by electric cars

SUPPORT for electric cars appears to be failing to spark off real interest from drivers, according to a survey of more than 3,000 motorists. Only 1% of UK drivers own an alternative fuel vehicle (AFV), while CO2 emissions are at the bottom of the checklist when Britons are shopping for a new car, the poll by Auto Trader found. Since January 2011, motorists have been eligible for up to £5,000 upfront cost relief on the purchase of a new electric vehicle but the survey showed that 35% of drivers were unaware of this grant.

Skoda Octavia Combi (2013) first official pictures

Skoda's new Octavia estate, or Combi, as they'd prefer you call it, boasts the biggest boot in its class, claims Skoda. The new car is 90m longer and 45mm wider than the old Octavia estate, a growth spurt made possible by the smaller, Seat Toledo-based Skoda Rapid slotting in lower down the range. t So, is the new Skoda Octavia Combi now a 3-series Touring rival?

Autorama Ridler Award goes to a woman for the first time

For the first time in the history of the Ridler Award, the trophy was won by a woman. The 1933 Ford Phaeton, named Gold Digger, owned by Tammy Ray of Dahlonega, Ga., was judged the best of the Great Eight at the Detroit Autorama on Feb. 28.