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Hyundai i40 Hybrid & i30 CNG: Paris 2014

The Hyundai i40 Hybrid & i30 CNG on the floor in Paris Hyundai is busy trying to find ways to reduce emissions and increase economy – just like every other car maker – and has arrived at the Paris Motor Show with a pair of economy-focused models – the Hyundai i40 mild hybrid and an i30 running on compressed natural gas (CNG). The Hyundai i40 gets a 48V mild hybrid setup just like the Kia Optima-T Hybrid, which means a 48V lead-carbon battery which cuts emissions from the 1.7 litre diesel by up t0 20 per cent by allowing electric-only running at low speeds and when cruising and, just like the Optima, the i40 hybrid gets a belt-driven starter generator for seamless restarting, which also contributes to engine power in normal running. The beauty of the system – apart from improvements in economy and emissions – is that it’s very light compared to a full hybrid – just 46kg – and costs 75 per cent less than a full hybrid system to install.

1960 Maserati Birdcage to cross the block at Mecum Monterey auction

Mecum Auctions is touting a 1960 Maserati Tipo 61/60 sports racer--a “Birdcage” series original--as part of its high-profile lineup for its Monterey sale this summer. The 1960 Maserati Tipo 61/60 Birdcage stands for a creative streak in Maserati's design. It was originally built for legendary Le Mans racer Briggs Cunningham, now a member of the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, and competed at Sebring in 1960.

Audi A3 hatch, Sportback and saloon (2012) sketches

Audi has released a batch of official design sketches revealing the new 2012 Audi A3. This is our first glimpse of the new A3 hatch, A3 Sportback and A3 saloon. There will be another A3 cabriolet, but no renderings have been issued yet.