1982 Kawasaki Kz 550 Speedometer/tackometer on 2040-parts.com

Design For the Real China contest seeks innovative solutions to everyday issues

The ‘Design for the Real China' contest has launched, challenging designers across all disciplines to develop innovative solutions to everyday problems that arise in China. Delivering a brief of ‘Show us a solution to a China-located problem or opportunity you have identified', the competition organizers want to see entries that address localized problems or opportunities. Participants have to submit a short video explaining both the problem they've identified and how they'll solve it.

Ferrari F450 – due at Frankfurt in September ’09

Rendering of the Ferrari F450 - due to show at Frankfurt in September and go on sale in 2010 But the new Ferrari F450 is getting closer, and spy shots of the F450 have enabled Auto Express to come up with a rendering that is, we reckon, near as dammit to the finished article due to be shown at Frankfurt in September. Sporting a pair of big side vents that have been enlarged to help the engine breathe and the brakes cool, the F450 is different enough to the F430 to set it apart as a new car – not just an evolution. The F450 is going to have to go upmarket to compete with the likes of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, and in an effort to compete Ferrari has upped the capacity of the F430, increased the rev limit and produced an engine that, in the F450, should deliver something around 500bhp.

A greener Rolls-Royce?

Are Rolls-Royce customers ready for a hybrid? How about diesel? The company is looking at any and all possibilities, including using parent BMW's active hybrid systems.