Volkswagen Beetle Fuel Gauge Vw Type 1 on 2040-parts.com

BMW ‘i' subbrand aims for 2013 launch

BMW has confirmed that the new subbrand through which it intends to market a range of advanced stand-alone hybrid, range-extended and plug-in electric models will be called BMW “i.” Created to develop, produce and market what BMW's head of marketing, Ian Robertson, describes as “innovative solutions to premium mobility,” the brand will be supported by a company established by BMW called i Ventures, through which the German carmaker plans to grow its range of mobility services. The i3 and the i8 will be the initial models and are planned for introduction in 2013. “These cars have been designed specifically for their respective alternative drive systems,” said Klaus Draeger, head of BMW's R&D operations.

North America crucial to Fiat's new 5-year plan

Alfa Romeo will play a key role in the U.S. market, Jeep will lead the charge in Russia, Chrysler cars will bolster the Lancia lineup in Europe and Dodge crossovers and SUVs will wear the Fiat badge in Europe. Those are key elements of Fiat S.p.A.

Hennessey unveils VelociRaptor SUV

From the folks who brought you the Venom GT and countless other cars and trucks capable of putting up ridiculous numbers, Hennessey Performance is back with another concoction, the VelociRaptor SUV. Based on the standard Ford F-150 Raptor, the truck is converted to a full-size SUV (think Ford Excursion) with seating for up to eight people. Though it's based on the Raptor, don't expect to go extreme off-roading with it, as Hennessey states that this car is intended for on-road use, as well as light to moderate off-roading.