Steve James

Bosch Opens €30m CVT Push-Belt Plant in Vietnam

The new Dong Nai facility is Bosch’s first hi-tech CVT push-belt plant in Southeast Asia and will supply Asian automotive markets as demand for fuel-efficient transmissions grows.

Mercedes-AMG 53 range brings electrified performance to Detroit

Mercedes-AMG launched the new 53 range at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, introducing mild-hybrid power to the CLS, E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet.

Renault Clio R.S. 18 channels F1 spirit in special edition hot hatch

Renault’s Clio R.S. 18, launched for 2018, adopts Formula One-inspired styling and a standard Akrapovic exhaust, but keeps the familiar 220 Trophy hardware underneath.

Subaru previews Viziv Performance STI concept ahead of Tokyo Auto Salon

Subaru has released a teaser for the Viziv Performance STI concept, hinting at a motorsport-inspired evolution of last year's Viziv Performance concept for its Tokyo Auto Salon debut.

Takata Quietly Changed Airbag Propellant in 2008 Amid Safety Fears

Takata altered its airbag inflator design in 2008 to address injury risks, but did not disclose the change to automakers or regulators at the time.

BMW M5 Teased in America With High-Profile Drift Stunt

BMW USA previewed the new F90 M5’s drift capability with a video and record-breaking stunts, highlighting the saloon’s rear-drive mode and all-wheel drive flexibility.

2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class leaked ahead of Detroit debut

The next-generation G-Class keeps its iconic boxy looks but introduces a new independent front suspension, a wider body and a thoroughly modernised interior.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class video brochure highlights 2018 facelift for US buyers

Mercedes-Benz USA released a video presentation for the 2018 S-Class facelift, focusing on new technology, design changes and luxury features for the American market.

Rowan Atkinson escapes injury after McLaren F1 crash

The actor and car enthusiast lost control of his £650,000 McLaren F1 near Haddon, Cambridgeshire, walking away with a shoulder injury and a massive repair bill.

Hyundai Promises Lifetime Battery Guarantee for 2012 Sonata Hybrid Owners

Original buyers of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid in the US received a non-transferable lifetime battery replacement guarantee, covering both the battery and recycling costs.

Aftermarket Exhaust Upgrades for SLS AMG, Gallardo, R8 V10 and 1M Coupe

Performance exhaust manufacturers target flagship supercars and BMW's 1M Coupe with systems promising sharper sound, lower weight and measurable gains.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia Stradale thrills at Monza

Italy’s police-spec Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, one of only two ever delivered, took to the Monza circuit for a rare high-speed demonstration alongside other supercars.

Renault Samsung SM3 Z.E. gains 36-kWh battery for 2018

The 2018 Renault Samsung SM3 Z.E. sedan for South Korea swaps its 22-kWh battery for a 36-kWh pack, extending range by over half without adding weight.

Magnussen reveals Button was set for 2014 F1 retirement before McLaren U-turn

Kevin Magnussen says Jenson Button expected to retire from Formula One at the end of 2014, but McLaren's late decision kept the Briton racing and left Magnussen sidelined.

Subaru Ascent teased ahead of LA Auto Show debut on 28 November

Subaru has released a teaser for the Ascent, its new three-row SUV, confirming a 28 November reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show and targeting the North American market.

Chrysler suspends nine Trenton plant workers after TV exposé shows drinking and drug use

Nine Chrysler workers at the Trenton Engine Plant were suspended without pay after being filmed drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana during lunch breaks, prompting an internal investigation.

ScienceofSpeed reveals 610hp Acura NSX Dream Project at SEMA 2017

Arizona tuner ScienceofSpeed unveiled its upgraded second-generation Acura NSX at SEMA 2017, featuring a power increase to 610hp, adaptive suspension and bespoke interior details.

Chevrolet Traverse SUP Concept brings paddleboarding to SEMA

Chevrolet’s Traverse SUP Concept, heading to the 2017 SEMA Show, focuses on family practicality and watersports utility rather than aggressive styling or power upgrades.

Apollo previews Intensa Emozione’s carbon fibre chassis

Apollo’s Intensa Emozione hypercar, limited to just ten units, features a carbon fibre tub weighing only 105kg and a naturally aspirated V12 engine.

Montoya Pushes Corvette ZR1 to Its Limits at GM's Lutz Ring

After his Watkins Glen win, Juan Pablo Montoya took the Corvette ZR1 for a spirited run at the Milford Proving Ground, giving passengers a taste of its raw performance.

Aston Martin Lends Its Name to Miami Tower Project

Aston Martin has partnered with developers to create a 66-storey residential tower in Miami, offering 391 branded apartments and penthouses with prices starting at £500,000.

Renault Megane gains 165PS TCe petrol for sharper performance

A new 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, developed with Renault Sport, brings 165PS and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox to the Megane hatch and estate in France.

Toyoda Gosei Flesby II concept debuts with soft, impact-friendly body at Tokyo

Toyoda Gosei’s Flesby II concept car, shown at the Tokyo Motor Show, features a soft, LED-lit exterior designed to protect pedestrians and preview future urban mobility materials.

Nissan e-NV200 Electric Van Tows Margot Robbie's House in Record Attempt

Nissan's updated e-NV200 van, equipped with a 40 kWh battery, towed a house linked to Margot Robbie in a publicity push for electric van capability and sustainability.