914 Engine Lid Grill on 2040-parts.com

2013 Australian Motor Show axed

This year’s Australian Motor Show in Melbourne has been cancelled by its organizers three months before its planned opening. Falling attendance figures played a big part in taking the decision, as did what is seen as a lack of manufacturer support. The Australian International Motor Show Joint Venture's event director Russ Tyrie said the decision was taken "based on a consensus view of the automotive industry to focus limited marketing budgets in 2013 on firm-specific activities, rather than an industry-based motor show." The Volkswagen Group's decision not to attend may well have acted as the final nail in the coffin along with Hyundai's hesitancy despite initial support.

Italy auctions government cars

OFFERS started rolling in on unneeded government Alfa Romeo, Lancia and BMW cars, which prime minister Matteo Renzi is auctioning off on eBay as a sign of his seriousness in tackling government waste. Renzi has pledged to sell 151 vehicles by April 16, saying he was taking a cue from the former mayor of Florence - himself - who auctioned off four cars early in his term. Besides cashing in, the government will save on upkeep, maintenance and running costs.

Volvo and Polestar offer post-sale software upgrades

Volvo's performance arm, Polestar, will offer software upgrades for the T6 and 2.5T engines that will increase horsepower and torque. The upgrade should calm Volvo fans who missed out on the limited-edition Polestar C30. For the T6 engine in the 2010 Volvo XC60 and 2009-2010 XC70 Polestar will offer a bump in output from 281 hp to 311 hp.