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US DoT makes rear-view cameras compulsory

The US Department of Transportation (DoT) has issued a new safety standard for rear visibility that requires mandatory fitment of rear-view cameras. The ruling applies to all new vehicles, excluding motorcycles, weighing under 10,000 pounds (4,536kg) sold from 2018. The ruling has been introduced to cut backover crashes, caused when the victim strays into the blind zone 10-40 feet (3-12m) behind the vehicle that the driver can't see using their mirrors alone.

Audi A3 Cabriolet uncovered at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

The covers have been pulled off the all-new Audi A3 Cabriolet at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, prior to UK deliveries beginning in March 2014. The new A3 Cabriolet becomes the fourth version of the new A3 range to go on sale – and Audi has announced a surprise here in Frankfurt, by revealing a hot 300hp S3 Cabriolet variant will be joining the range.

IDSA's 3D-printed car design contest gets underway

Aspiring designers have the chance to see their 3D-printed car designs launched down a miniature model of a ski jump and crash in the Launch Day 2013 competition due to take place at the 2013 IDSA conference, which runs from 21-24 August. Up to five designs can be entered for free until 12 August in the competition, organized by The Industrial Designers Society of America. All submissions will then be judged for both aesthetics and for "using unique attributes of 3D printing" which will whittle them down to just 10 designs that will be printed before the launch.