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Daimler, Renault are set to share vehicle platforms and engines

Following a year of intensive high-level talks and secretive, behind the scenes strategy meetings, Daimler AG and Renault SA have agreed on plans that will see their car-making divisions--Mercedes-Benz, Smart, Renault and Nissan--share resources on a wide range of products. The move signals more consolidation within the European automotive industry. Daimler chairman Dieter Zetsche and Renault president Carlos Ghosn have set out three primary areas of cooperation that will see the carmakers share small-car and light-commercial-vehicle platforms, small gasoline and diesel engines, and electric drive systems.

Ford SVT Raptor designers tell all -- Video interview

We recently brought you road test editor Jonathan Wong whipping the Ford SVT Raptor through an intense off-road course. Now we talk with two top Ford designers charged with developing one of our favorite beasts. Jamal Hameedi, global performance vehicle chief engineer, and Bruce Williams, senior exterior designer, explain how they overcame design challenges and corporate resistance to turn out the ultimate F-150.

Toyota car design contest for kids makes us smile and wonder 'what if'

Toyota has held its eighth annual dream car art contest, inviting entries from children aged 15 or younger from all around the world to imagine their dream car. Entries have poured in, all on paper as digital methods aren't allowed. However, Toyota has turned the work of the 90 finalists into six-second Vine videos.