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Porsche says Panamera avoids gas-guzzler tax

Few expenses were spared in conceiving the Porsche Panamera, but consumers will avoid at least one cost of ownership: the ignominious gas-guzzler tax. Porsche has announced ratings for the 2010 sedan; it will get a combined figure of 18 mpg or 19 mpg from the EPA, depending on the model. This means Porsche’s four-door foray will avoid a fairly substantial cost of ownership--a tax of up to $7,700 is levied on the most prolific guzzlers.

Ferrari 599 Hybrid at Geneva

The report of the Ferrari 599 Hybrid destined for Geneva We know that Ferrari are doing what every other car maker is and working on systems to cut their average CO2 emissions, save a few bob and look a bit more ‘Eco’. There is already an electric Ferrari powertrain in development and Ferrari have in effect been trialing hybrid technology with their F1 cars equipped with KERS. So it comes as no huge surprise that it’s being reported Ferrari are to bring a hybrid version of the 599 to the Geneva Motor Show next year.

Durheimer succeeds Paefgen at Bentley, Bugatti

Porsche R&D chief Wolfgang Durheimer has been named the new head of Bentley and Bugatti to replace Franz-Josef Paefgen, who is retiring. Durheimer, 52, also becomes head of motorsports for the Volkswagen Group, beginning in February. Paefgen, 64, has lead Bentley since 2002 and Bugatti since 2007.