14-00176-02 Strainer Carrier Transicold on 2040-parts.com

Lotus's glimmer of hope: Proton stands by Hethel

After another painful year of sales for Lotus in the UK – down 58% on 2011 - Norfolk's beleagured sports car brand has kicked off the New Year with the grand unveiling of its new flagship Malaysian showroom, and the thumbs-up from senior Proton company suits that Lotus isn't on its last legs. The announcement comes in the same week Lotus’s sales figures were released for 2012. Showing a substantial 58% decrease in sales and selling just 137 vehicles, Lotus Cars was the worst performer in the UK with a woeful 0.01% share of the market.  Are Lotus's Malaysian owners sticking by the company?

Mercedes SLS AMG, David Couthard, Golf & a new Guinness world record

David Coulthard drove a Mercedes SLS AMG, Jake Shepherd drove a golf ball and together they created a new Guinness World Record. What’s a good way to get some free PR for a car maker? A Guinness World Record sounds like a good idea (just like MINI in our story earlier today) as does a link to Golf  (lots of drivers play golf) and perhaps a well known name or two.

Latest Saab production halt raises concern

News today that Saab has halted production again, owing to problems paying suppliers, has raised further questions over the long-term financial viability of the independent car maker. Saab says it continues to negotiate with its local suppliers to ensure a supply of parts, but has declined to mention when production may resume. Didn't Saab have supplier issues last week?