Marine Seachoice Bow Chock-skene-3 1/2 -cpz 31501 on 2040-parts.com

For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

Audi Q3 coming in 2011

Audi will build the new Audi Q3 at a SEAT plant in Spain starting in 2011 Despite the late arrival on the scene of the Audi Q7, the 4×4 behemoth from Audi has certainly made its mark. Followed recently by the Q5, it has carved a niche for Audi that is standing up remarkably well in the current climate. But Audi are intent on capitalising on their 4×4 success story, and have today revealed that the next instalment – The Audi Q3 - will start production in 2011 at a SEAT plant in Martorell in Spain.

VW E-Bugster convertible concept car at 2012 Beijing motor show

Volkswagen, one of the biggest players in China's swelling car market, chose Beijing to unveil its latest E-Bugster - a good look at the forthcoming convertible version of the Beetle. We saw the E-Bugster in tin-top form at the 2012 Detroit auto show; now they've gone and chopped the top fully for Beijing. It's a two-seater speedster version of the Beetle hatch, driven by an 85kW electric drive system; essentially, the powertrain of this car is what will underpin the 2013 Blue-e-motion electric Golf.