Polaris Indy Xl Snowmobile Helmet on 2040-parts.com

Design Contest: Michelin Challenge Design announces 2008 theme and call for entries

Michelin Challenge Design, one of the world's fastest growing transportation design programs, has announced it will continue its focus on safety in 2008 under the central theme of 'Safety over Size.' The 2008 theme was announced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where the Michelin Challenge Design exhibit showcased works from vehicle manufacturers, students, as well as the first full-size concept to be submitted by an independent entrant. Rising energy costs, urban congestion and environmental concerns are all contributing to an increased interest in smaller vehicles, but consumers are often hesitant to consider smaller vehicles due to safety concerns that are both real and perceived. Participating designers are encouraged to 'throw away the book' and to present ideas that enhance the real and perceived safety and security of smaller vehicles through design innovations in areas such as accident avoidance, enhanced driver controls, survivability and visibility.

Bullitt Mustang (2007): first official pictures

By Liz Turner First Official Pictures 07 November 2007 12:01 And about time too… Yes, this is the one we’re been waiting for, but they had to make it a 2008 car to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Bullitt and the best car chase of all time. So pull on your turtlenecks; Ford will reveal the new Mustang Bullitt at the forthcoming LA Motor Show, and will sell only 7700 at a reasonable $31,075, from January. You can have it in the original Highland green (unique to this model), or black.

Umea University students complete Saab collaboration project

A selection of first-year students from Sweden's Umea University have completed a 10-week collaborative design project with Saab. Tasked with exploring new directions for the brand, students were encouraged to investigate the interplay of brand and identity. Each of them was assigned a non-automotive brand to reflect on parallels that could be established between that brand and Saab, whilst also capturing the essence of the Swedish carmaker through their project's concept, its proportions, surface language, details, graphics, functionality and material choices.