Harley Davidson Softail Swingarm on 2040-parts.com

Say Chevrolet--not Chevy--GM tells employees

From racetracks in the heartland to the iconic strains of “American Pie,” one word--Chevy--has transcended class and culture and helped raise the bow-tie brand to the lofty status as one of the most recognized in the world. But now, one of the most blue-collar and singularly American marques is going formal: General Motors has told its employees to use the world “Chevrolet” instead of the commonly used “Chevy” nickname. An internal memo distributed this week directs workers to use the official name in all communications, from official duties to simple conversations.

Brabus tunes the M-class

German go-fast tuner Brabus has revealed an updated Mercedes-Benz M-class tuning kit, including a wide body, custom wheels and suspension and engine modifications across the line. The Widestar kit for the ML includes new fender flares and rocker panels, giving it a low, menacing stance. The rear bumper integrates the exhaust tips, and a new front spoiler adds four auxiliary daytime running lights.

May bids to build Mecanno motorbike

TOP GEAR star James May must be getting Meccano for Christmas because he is using the classic toy to build a motorbike and sidecar to race the Isle of Man TT circuit for a new show. The episode of his Toy Stories series, called The Motorcycle Diaries, sees May get to grips with a construction kit to try to build a vehicle capable of carrying him and co-star Oz Clarke around the 37-mile course. In previous episodes James May and his team have built a giant slot-car racing track, a full size Airfix replica of a Spitfire and a giant toy glider.