Exhaust Flange Walker 31901 on 2040-parts.com

For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

2013 Lincoln MKZ spotted beside its predecessor

We've seen the 2013 Lincoln MKZ on the road before sans camouflage, but it's the company that this particular MKZ is keeping that makes these photos notable. Snapped by Autoweek reader Jon McCrary in Traverse City, Mich., the pictures show the upcoming 2013 MKZ next to a current-generation MKZ. The contrast is striking.

Car Design of the Year 2008

As the year draws to a close, it's time once again for us to ask you, our readers, to vote for your favorite car designs of 2008. Your votes will decide which design teams will be presented an award by the CDN team at the Geneva auto show in March, with prizes being given to the best vehicle in the concept and production car categories. We've selected our picks of the production and concept vehicles unveiled since the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, and now it's up to you to decide which ones gain the accolade of Car Design of the Year.