Skidoo Zx Chassis Tachometer Rpms on 2040-parts.com

Mini Convertible (2009): the new R57 cabrio

By Simon Stiel First Official Pictures 28 November 2008 10:46 Mini has just issued the first photos of the new R57 Mini Convertible, which rolls into dealerships in March 2009 and follows the lead set by the latest hatchback. So it's cleaner, a little bit more polished inside and out, and there will probably be evidence of some middle-aged spread when we drive it in 2009.So what's new on the R57 Mini Convertible?All the changes are in line with the Mini hatch, so you get the latest PSA-shared 1.6 petrol engines, BMW group Efficient Dynamics – now redubbed Minimalism in Minispeak – stop-start and intelligent alternator control, helping to contribute to a 22% jump in fuel efficiency, Mini claims. The 1.6 Cooper pumps out 137g/km of CO2.

Volvo XC60 gets R-Design package

The Volvo XC60 is the next in line to get the R-Design treatment, and it will debut in September at the Frankfurt auto show. The R-Design brings sporty looks to the XC60 with a vamped-up style, a specially tuned sports chassis and a more direct steering gear ratio. The exterior resembles R-Design features on the C30, the S40, the V50 and the XC90.

Volvo asks: Can science measure how car design makes you feel?

Can science measure how car design makes you feel? That's the question Volvo designers and neuroscientists have been trying to answer using Electroencephalographic (EEG) machines to measure the emotional response to the Volvo Concept Coupé's design, amongst other things. The results will be revealed tomorrow during a Google Hangout featuring Volvo's exterior design chief Maximilian Missoni and neuropsychologist Dr.