Volvo makes breakthrough in battery tech

Volvo has developed a new way of ‘storing’ energy for its future electric vehicles. The Swedish firm is exploring the concept of lightweight structural energy storage components made from carbonfibre, containing “nano structured batteries and super capacitors.” This technology is said to offer a lighter, more compact solution to the problem of energy storage, potentially removing the need for the heavy, bulky batteries used in current electric vehicles. On Bing: see pictures of the Volvo S80 Find out how much a used Volvo S80 costs on Auto Trader The investigation into the new technology is part of an EU-funded research project, undertaken by Volvo – the only major car manufacturer involved – and nine other organisations.

Aston Martin reveals the Cygnet city-car concept

Today we're getting a first peek at the curious pairing of Aston Martin and Toyota with the release of official pictures of the Aston Martin Cygnet concept. The car is being billed as a luxury commuter ride for urban areas. It's a Toyota iQ with a restyled front end with Aston Martin's styling cues.

College Exhibition: IAAD - 'Italian Sportivity: The New Generation'

Demonstrating the development of new concepts for Alfa Romeo and Ducati, the Automobile Museum of Turin, Italy, has been hosting an exhibition entitled 'Italian Sportivity: The New Generation'. The work was produced by Transport Design students from Turin's Institute of Applied Arts and Design (IAAD). Working with designers from both companies, IAAD students were given a pair of options to chose from: two wheels or four; Ducati or Alfa Romeo.