1995 Plaris Indy Xlt Flywheel on 2040-parts.com

Europe trailing on ESP safety

NOT ENOUGH new cars in Europe are being specified with an electronic stability programme (ESP) that is proved to be most important safety system in prevent collisions. Research by Frost and Sullivan has found Europe is lagging behind North America, where there is almost 100% success with fitting news cars with ESP. Despite ESP being included in the European New Car Assessment Programme since 2011, the study shows there has been only a minimal increase in the number of cars sold that have ESP.

Future products: Bentley reskins Continentals, works on convertibles

Bentley's sales have plummeted as its cars aged and the economy fell into recession. The launch of the Mulsanne flagship this year is cause for optimism, as is the coming reskin of the Continental range, which was introduced in the United States in 2005. Bentley will begin rolling out the new versions of the Continental next year, starting with the GT coupe.

Maserati and Poltrona Frau showcasing continuing collaboration

Maserati and Poltrona Frau are showcasing their continuing collaboration in automotive design in a weeklong exhibition at Design Centre at Chelsea Harbor, London. From 18 until 22 June the glass domes of Design Centre will play host to a Maserati GranCabrio Sport as well as one of Poltrona Frau's skilled artisan upholsterers working on a chair throughout the week in a demonstration of traditional Italian craftsmanship. Poltrona Frau, the international high-end furniture company, has realized the interiors of the entire Maserati range – including the Quattroporte saloon, GranTurismo coupe and GranCabrio convertible – through its 100-year history of leather working and handcraftsmanship.