National Cycle Paladin Backrest Quickset Mounting System P9br016 on 2040-parts.com

Mercedes-Benz courts Renault for new Smart model based on Twingo

Mercedes-Benz is set to join forces with Renault in a deal aimed at providing its underdeveloped Smart division with a contemporary-engineered front-engine/front-wheel-drive platform as the basis for a frugal new Forfour model. The new Smart, due out in 2013, is planned to sit on a lightly modified version of the Renault Twingo’s underpinnings, complete with a 93.3-inch wheelbase. Speaking about the new car over the weekend, a highly placed Mercedes-Benz official told AutoWeek: “It’s a key component in plans to grow the Smart brand.

CAR's guide to the 2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed

By Tim Pollard (photos by James Mann) Motor Shows 09 July 2008 12:11 Click here for CAR's full guide to the 2008 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Read our latest blogs, galleries, news – and even weather reports – live from Lord March's driveway. We're having daily updates to bring you all the news: • DAILY BULLETINWe're uploading daily reports live from the Festival of Speed, with news and pics• BLOGSSee how Ben Barry got on driving a Nissan GT-R up the hill on Friday• PREVIEWFull lowdown on what to expect at the 2008 Festival of Speed• CARS TO SEERound-up of the supercars, racing cars and even Bond cars at Goodwood• STARS TO SEEThe big names from the world of motorsport and beyond• PRACTICAL INFORMATIONHow to get there, links, maps, prices.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class aerodynamics tested [w/video]

Mercedes-Benz has produced a video testing the aerodynamics of its new B-Class – which it claims is the most aerodynamically efficient car in the world – using a wind tunnel and fluorescent paint. The W245-generation B-Class has the lowest aerodynamic drag in its segment with a Cd of just 0.26, thanks to features such as serrated front wheel arch spoilers, optimized cooling airflow and a Pagoda roof to help airflow over its profile. The car's aero properties were put to the test at the MIRA vehicle test facility in the UK using fluorescent paint in 60mph winds to highlight its flow dynamics, only visible under UV lights.