Design Services: Ficosa International

In the hierarchy of car design the exterior of a powerful sports car is usually regarded as the highest level whilst the design of some of the smaller functional components tends to sit at the bottom. But even for companies not obviously dependant on sexy curves to help them make money, design is increasingly being recognised as a critical ingredient for commercial success. Whilst most large suppliers have grown their design capability over the last decade, few have truly embraced the potential of having a focus on Design within their corporate strategy.

'Special Cars by Pininfarina' model car collection announced

12 1:43-scale models of Pininfarina's most famous cars will be shown as part of the International Toy Fair in Nuremburg. Fans of the carrozeria will get the chance to reflect on some of the most beautiful cars of the modern era in miniature form in the ‘Special Cars by Pininfarina' exhibition. "I have personally chosen the models that now form part of the ‘Special Cars by Pininfarina' collection to give to car fans like myself the chance to live the Pininfarina legend to the full," said Pininfarina Group chairman Paolo Pininfarina.

Holden will sell cars in Australia beyond 2017

When we heard about Holden's plans to shutter its Australian plants after 2017, we didn't know quite what to think. The General Motors subsidiary was cagey when it came to details, claiming that the brand would remain a presence in Australia -- even maintaining its design office there. Oddly, we couldn't get anyone to say, in black-and-white terms, what vehicles would be sold there under the Holden name after its plants close.