Indy Ski Spindle Ultra 700 on 2040-parts.com

First Sight: Infiniti Emerg-e

It's a month before the Geneva motor show and amongst the usual pre Motor Show commotion I receive a string of cryptic emails about an Infiniti electric sports car concept. The name Emerg-e is only revealed as I drive to the secret preview at Park Royal Studios in West London to meet the big three in design – global design director Shiro Nakamura, Francois Bancon of advanced design and head of Nissan Design Europe Victor Nacif. This is clearly a critical car for Infiniti.

Kia Niro concept

Kia's Niro concept, which debuts at the upcoming Frankfurt motor show, will hint at a possible B-segment model. Designed at Kia's Frankfurt design studio under the direction of chief designer Europe Gregory Guillaume, Kia says the Niro will feature "intriguing elements not always associated with smaller cars" as well as a mix of contrasting materials. Although full details haven't been released, the pictures show the Niro features triangular headlamps along with Kia's signature ‘tiger nose' grill design and muscular wheelarches.

7th L'argus European Design competition announced

On 21 June 2008, French magazine L'Argus de l'automobile will launch its 7th European Design competition. Students will have to imagine a new vehicle based on the theme: "Invent a vehicle that is useful for society". The deadline for submissions is December 21, 2008.