Fiat gets approval to purchase Bertone coachbuilding business

Fiat S.p.A.'s bid for Carrozzeria Bertone S.p.A. was approved Thursday by the Italian government. Fiat will invest $215.9 million (150 million euros) over three years in the struggling contract manufacturer that has produced models ranging from the Lamborghini Miura to the Volkswagen Polo during its 96 years in business.

Carlsson improves upon the Mercedes SL63 AMG

Not happy with only 518 hp and a 4.5-second 0-to-60-mph time from your shiny new Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG? Lucky for you, the German tuners from Carlsson are now offering performance-upgrade kits in the United States. Through GGI European Tuning in Miami--the exclusive North American importer of Carlsson parts--SL63 owners can massage their rides to churn out 600 hp and 520 lb-ft of torque and to handle better than stock.

Volkswagen E-Golf to get limited testing release

Starting in April, Volkswagen of America will launch a test fleet of battery-powered E-Golf cars in select metro areas. More selective than the BMW ActiveE program that included 700 drivers, Volkswagen will release only 20 EVs, 12 of which will be allocated to company employees. Volkswagen said in a release that the purpose of the test is to conduct research and gather information on driving patterns, electric performance and climate conditions.