Next generation Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X to be diesel-hybrid

Mitsubishi is planning a drastic overhaul of its Lancer Evolution by changing the next model into a diesel hybrid. The switch of drivetrain is designed to save the Evo from strict economy and emissions regulations while saving its trademark mid-range punch.

2012 León essential to SEAT's future

Seat will use its next-generation Leon to launch its first hybrid and electric cars from 2012 as part of its new 5 year plan, even though there are still no plans for the firm to enter into new market segments.

The Spanish manufacturer is currently testing a plug-in hybrid version of the Leon, known as Twin Drive, and this is expected to be part of the next Leon range that’s planned to arrive in late 2012.

An all-electric version of the Leon is also likely after Volkswagen announced plans to build an all-electric version of the Golf (the car on which the Leon is based) from 2013. The Golf blue-e-motion drivetrain is likely to come from the IBE concept from Geneva, although there are no plans to put the IBE itself into production.

Electric cars need steel bodies

The next generation of electric cars will need specifically designed steel bodies to exploit their green potential, according to the world’s biggest steel makers.

A new research project, the Future Steel Vehicle (FSV), is testing redesigned structural parts in an electric car’s bodywork, including the sills, front crash structure, roof and battery carrier, to cut weight and save energy.

Mazda working on new rotary engine for RX-8 heir

Mazda is working on a new rotary engine for the RX-7 descendant that can run on either petrol or diesel, and offer improved fuel economy compared to the recently terminated RX-8 coupe.

The two-stroke 16X engine is designed to correct the shortcomings of Mazda’s most recent rotary engine, including its high oil consumption and lack of torque in the mid-range. Sources in Japan say the new unit has achieved considerable improvements in fuel efficiency.

2011 Volkswagen Jetta spied nearly undisguised

The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta has been spied partially undisguised – hinting that the Jetta will be unveiled soon. The pre-production cars were caught undergoing final shake-down tests in Detroit, Michigan.

The newcomer is baring strong similarity at the New Compact Coupe (NCC) Concept, which was exposed at this year’s Detroit motorshow. Up front, the car's front bumper, headlights and bonnet contours follow the NCC closely, while at the back, the tail-lights are virtually unchanged from the NCC.

Second generation Chevy Volt could get rotary engine

Chevrolet hasn’t even begun selling the 2011 Volt yet, but already GM is thinking about more efficient ways of making the next-generation model. Sources spoke to GM's new vice president of global vehicle engineering, Karl Stracke, who shared some insights into the new GM thought process.

According to Stracke, the Volt's current propulsion system is too expensive and has to be cut down if the car is to compete effectively with the Toyota Prius. Its battery pack costs $10,000 and GM is keen to halve that figure for the next-generation.

Lotus set to kill-off Europa

Lotus will be killing off the Europa sports coupe. According to reports, Lotus dealers in Europe have stopped selling the car, which could mean production of the Europa will end by autumn.

Mercedes appoints new MD (UK)

Mercedes UK has appointed Gary Savage as its new managing director - hardly a year after he left Audi to head up Citroen's UK operations. Savage replaces Dermot Kelly, who will retire at the end of June 2010.

Wilfried Steffen, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK, commented; “Gary Savage has consistently delivered significant business results in all his previous roles and firmly established his professional reputation within our sector."

Saab UK sold to Spyker (UK)

The sale of Saab UK to Dutch car firm, Spyker Cars was agreed today by GM UK. The company, which distributes Saabs in the UK, now becomes part of the Spyker Cars organisation, which purchased Saab at the beginning of the year. In this case, Spyker is ready to expand into Saab dealerships to double its [Spyker] showrooms by the end of the year.

In an interview, Saab and Spyker boss Victor Muller said Spyker’s dealer network would expand from 35 to 60 this year and should reach 90 by the end of 2011.

Toyota extends warranty (UK)

Starting from today, Toyota UK will be extending their standard warranty from 3 years to 5 years. The longer deal was introduced back in March as Toyota tried to redirect negative publicity over its vehicle recalls. Buyers could choose between 3 years free servicing or a 5 year warranty.