Kuryakyn Magnum Mirrors Small Head 1428 on 2040-parts.com

EPA makes it official--greenhouse gases are pollutants

On the eve of an international climate summit, the EPA on Monday formally declared greenhouse gases to be dangerous pollutants, strengthening President Barack Obama's hand and laying the groundwork for a new 35.5 mpg standard for light vehicles. The finding is likely to have a greater impact on electric utilities, oil companies and manufacturers than on the auto industry. The EPA's scientific finding reported that these gases “are the primary driver of climate change,” which can intensify heat waves and increase ozone pollution linked to asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Maeda named new Mazda design boss, replacing van den Acker

Ikuo Maeda is the new head of design at Mazda Motor Corp. The man who is credited with styling the Mazda's flagship sports car takes over for Dutchman Laurens van den Acker, 43, who has decided to leave the company "to pursue other interests," the automaker said in a statement today. Van den Acker, who joined Mazda in 2006, will remain at the automaker until April 10 to ensure a smooth transition for Maeda, Mazda said.

New V12 engine set to power baby Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce said Monday that the upcoming production version of the 200EX concept car revealed at the Geneva motor show earlier this month will be powered by turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 engine. Part of a new family of gasoline engines developed by parent company BMW--among which is the turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 used in the 7-series--the new four-valve-per-cylinder engine receives the latest in direct-injection technology and is claimed to produce in excess of 500 hp. With the smaller V8 developing 442 lb-ft of torque in the range-topping BMW, the new V12 destined for the price-leading Rolls-Royce is expected to be in the vicinity of 553 lb-ft--something that should ensure what the British carmaker likes to refer to as traditional waftability--in other words, relaxed cruising.