1955-57 Thunderbird Wiper Control Assembly on 2040-parts.com

VW Scirocco and Passat CC (2011): low CO2 tech

Volkswagen has launched the cleanest and most efficient Scirocco yet. Bluemotion tech is now fitted to the base 2.0-litre turbodiesel and includes stop/start and battery regeneration systems to cut CO2 beneath 120g/km. The six-speed manual Scirocco 138bhp 2.0 TDI now averages 62.8mpg (down from 55.4mpg) while emissions have tumbled to an impressive 118g/km (down from 134g/km).

Proton Satria Neo

Malaysian car manufacturer Proton have launched the new Satria Neo three-door hatchback, which replaces the Satria model introduced 12 years ago. Having formerly sold re-badged and out-moded Mitsubishi-derived models, Proton have since established a relationship with Lotus Engineering that began with the Proton GTi. Though cars such as the Elise demonstrate the depth of Lotus' abilities, partnerships with other companies reflect their breadth.

Volkswagen launches Car-Net in-car assistance system

Volkswagen has launched an in-car assistance system which will offer a number of convenience and diagnostic features. Not too dissimilar from some other systems already on the market -- such as BMW Assist, Mercedes-Benz'sMbrace, and GM's On-Star -- VW's system will offer roadside assistance, service appointment scheduling, and automatic crash notification. The latter triggers a call from the vehicle to a Car-Net customer specialist when the airbags in the car are deployed, which will then connect the occupants with a local public safety answering point, which can send emergency vehicles to the scene if needed.