1960s Ski Doo Snowmobile Document Holder W Killer Bee Emblem on 2040-parts.com

Faurecia Pin-spiration calls for premium pinboards

Faurecia has launched its ‘Faurecia Pin-spiration' contest, with a brand new 64GB iPad up for grabs. Tier supplier Faurecia is using online sharing community Pinterest to host a new competition to create a pinboard named ‘Faurecia Pin-spiration' – categorized under ‘Cars and Motorcycles' – and filled with things that reflect the meaning of ‘premium’ that could also be used in automotive design. To enter into the contest send an email to FaureciaNA@Faurecia.com with the link to the board along with your name, email address and phone number by 31 July, and Faurecia judges will then choose the winner.

VW Phaeton - the new one coming in 2015

A brand new Volkswagen Phaeton Mk2 will be launched in 2015, based on a new architecture being masterminded by cousins Audi. Dubbed VW631, the new VW Phaeton will be based on MLM Evo (modular longitudinal matrix) which makes provision for a plug-in hybrid option, an aluminium-intensive body structure and a much more advanced and less nose-heavy dynamic layout. Although VW chairman Martin Winterkorn has in the past black-flagged the Avantissimo (A8-based) and the Passat Variant Plus (A6-derived), there is still a lot to be said for a second more practical bodystyle in addition to the four-door notch which is almost compulsory in this segment.

Ford trucks pulling it to the next level

With the heavy-duty truck segment heating up, Ford is breaking out some tough new vehicles and an upgraded 6.7-liter diesel engine. The second-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel packs a manufacturer estimated 440 hp with 860 lb-ft of torque. This is a gain of 40 hp and 60 lb-ft over the first-gen 6.7 oil burner.