Ford Explorer Aluminum Wheel on 2040-parts.com

BMW i3 caught testing in New York

BMW has been hyping its futuristic i lineup for years now, but the long lead time doesn't mean that the highly efficient, carbon-fiber-based vehicles are vaporware. Earlier this month, we test drove pre-production versions of the i3 and i8, and last week, Autoweek reader Frank Cogliano spied the former vehicle on the road. Cogliano caught this wrapped i3 near Stony Point, New York -- about 30 minutes from BMW's New Jersey headquarters.

Vettel F1 helmet sold for £72,000

A HELMET belonging to four times World Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel has been sold for a world record £72,000 in a charity auction. The safety gear, signed by Vettel himself, was a Red Bull-sponsored helmet by Arai designed around Germany's national colours. It was worn during the Nurburgring Grand Prix race weekend in Germany this year - where Vettel celebrated his first home victory.

Building a business around Alfa lust

In a low-key industrial complex just north of Detroit sits a trove of 1960s and '70s Alfa Romeos. To describe it as a “treasure” trove doesn't quiet fit, because in the words of owner Richard Davisson, the Italian icons are “everything from pathetic to just about done.” Several of the dozen or so cars are gorgeous. Most are interesting.