Merc Cruisrer Riser on 2040-parts.com

Who's Where: Gert Hildebrand appointed Head of Design at Qoros Auto

Gert Hildebrand, former General Manager of Mini Design, was appointed Head of Design at Qoros Auto in January this year. In his new role, Hildebrand is responsible for overseeing a regeneration of the existing design and styling processes at the joint venture company, a collaboration between Qoros and Israel Corporation, which was founded in 2007. One of many high level designers making the transition to China, Hildebrand is is currently tasked with leading the creation of the new Qoros brand, which was unveiled at a presentation in Shanghai last week.

Juan Pablo Montoya hustles Corvette ZR1 around GM track

WITH VIDEO -- Juan Pablo Montoya's day job is to push Earnhardt Ganassi Racing's Chevy Impala around NASCAR tracks to collect trophies and points. And his extensive career includes stints in Formula One, Indy cars and Grand-AM racers. Recently, Montoya's patrons at Chevy brought him to the development track at the proving grounds in Milford, Mich.--known among fans inside the automaker as the "Lutzring." While he took some laps in the Chevrolet Cruze and the Camaro, what caught our eye is this video of Montoya pushing a Corvette ZR1 to the limit on the track.

Mercedes proves E-Class hybrid tech with unusual test

IN AN impressive display of performance and economy, Mercedes-Benz has completed a lengthy test of its new E300 Bluetech Hybrid saloon by driving it almost the length of the country on a single tank of fuel with a flat-out speed test at either end. With ex-rally driver Mick Linford at the wheel the standard production E300 Bluetech Hybrid began with a full tank of fuel at Newquay Cornwall Airport, the most southerly airport in mainland Britain. Down the main runway it completed an acceleration test to past 62mph from rest in a little over seven seconds and reached 136mph before braking for the end of the runway.