Honda Stepwgn 2010 Combination Switch [8861500] on 2040-parts.com

MIT develops self-transforming materials that behave 'like robots without robots'

A cross-disciplinary research lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has developed a suite of programmable materials, including carbon fiber, printed wood grain, textile composites, rubbers and plastics, that self-transform when exposed to an external stimulus. Director of the Self-Assembly Lab, Skylar Tibbits, presented a TED talk on 4D printing in 2013, where he demonstrated how a flat sheet of material could effectively build itself when exposed to water, like a robot without a robot. Following positive feedback from industries including aviation, automotive and manufacturing, his lab has been working on developing materials that change according to different activation sources, including heat, light, and air pressure, in addition to water – all of which have automotive relevance.

Marcello Gandini receives Car Design News Lifetime Achievement Award [w/video]

Marcello Gandini was last night the recipient of Car Design News' Lifetime Achievement Award. The legendary designer's career spans over 50 years, in which time he has been responsible for some of the most spectacular and innovative cars. From the Lancia Stratos Zero to the Lamborghini Countach via the Alfa Romeo Carabo and Citroen BX.

Will Chrysler reload with another wagon?

Is Chrysler aiming to get some of its old swagger back by dusting off a recent gem with customizers? The Dodge Magnum wagon with its "gangsta" profile proved a sensation with tuners and urban dwellers when it arrived in showrooms in 2004. But it was quickly spiked when Chrysler hit the financial skids and restructured under bankruptcy a few years ago.