Dorman 555-002 Expansion Plug (block Parts) on 2040-parts.com

One Lap of the Web: Mock the Week Edition

-- Mazda Europe designer Peter Birthwhistle talks about the future of Mazda: potential hybrid and electric powertrains for the Skyactiv-obsessed company, and how we'll all be driving Mazda-branded pods in the 22nd century. But he also mentions, rather interestingly, how certain Mazdas capture a quintessentially long-hood, RWD look -- and not just the Miata, either, which is RWD. No, it's the exhaust systems on those Skyactiv engines that force a longer, larger hood compartment, and the "long, flowing looks" not usually found on FWD engines.

What's the difference between styling and design? [w/Video]

2953 Analytics' managing director Jim Hall explains the subtle but important difference between design and styling in a video from Autoline.tv. Hall believes design means how well the object functions, looks and feels, while styling is predominantly about giving it presence and increased aesthetic value. It's important then, he argues, not to interchange the two words.

Whitacre leaving General Motors

UPDATED--Ed Whitacre is stepping down as General Motors Co. CEO on Sept. 1.