BMW i3 EV to get BMW motorcycle engine as range extender?

BMW i3 to get motorcycle range-extender engine? The only real way to make an electric car – any electric car – come close to being a viable replacement for an ICE car is to fit it with a small engine to extend its range and charge its batteries when reserves get low. The range extender is the technology the Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera use to make their cars suitable for more than just short urban commuting, and it’s something BMW are planning as an option for the i3.

Road accidents' annual cost '£34bn'

THE TOTAL ANNUAL COST of road accidents, including the human suffering as well as the medical bills, could be more than £34 billion, according to Government estimates. Latest figures show that British road accidents that were reported in 2012 cost an estimated £15.12 billion. This included damage-only accidents but did not allow for unreported injury accidents.

New Toyota Auris starts rolling out at Burnaston

The new 2013 Toyota Auris – Toyota’s modern Corolla – has commenced production at the Toyota plant in Burnaston. Toyota revealed the new Auris back in August – ahead of a public debut at the Paris Motor Show – which, although pretty much the previous Auris when you dig deep, does offer a more dynamic look and the promise of better driving dynamics too. With the new Auris a big deal for Toyota in Europe, Toyota are trumpeting the start of Auris production in Burnaston and have rolled out Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, to mark the occasion.