2006 Mercury 9.9hp 4-stroke Remote Long Shaft Kicker Motor on 2040-parts.com

High Fuel Costs Forcing Drivers Off Road

THE latest AA/Populus survey released to coincide with the Government’s Autumn Statement tells us something we probably already know: high fuel prices are continuing to force drivers to use their cars less. As part of its poll of 21,587 AA members, the organisation found that 45% are cutting down on car usage and 28% are slashing family or personal budgets to compensate. Semi or unskilled workers and pensioners are cutting back most on motoring, with 53% using their cars less.

Toyota Matrix likely to be dropped

Toyota will roll out Tundra and Corolla redesigns next year and will revise the RAV4, Avalon and Highlander, but there are some things the division probably won't do. For example, there is a strong possibility that the Corolla-based Matrix hatchback will not be renewed for the United States when the Corolla redesign comes next fall. "If we don't have the Matrix, it won't be the end of the world," said Toyota Division boss Bill Fay at the press introduction of the RAV4 in Phoenix.

EyesOn Design to honor Volkswagen design chief Walter de'Silva

The 24th-annual EyesOn Design car show will honor Volkswagen Group design chief Walter de'Silva with a Lifetime Design Achievement Award, the organizers said. De'Silva is responsible for designing the passenger cars for Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini and Volkswagen. He designed the 2008 Volkswagen Golf, the '10 Touareg and many others.