And the Porsche Cayenne...
And the Porsche Cayenne had better watch out, because the snappily named Spyker C12 Peking to Paris is set to become a production reality. As our exclusive picture shows, the off-road model retains the firm"s distinctive gaping grille. Also note the double air intakes on each flank, confirming the rear-engine format. Discreet back doors provide access to the second row of chairs, making this a proper four-seater. The C12 bears a strong resemblance to the C8 Spyder, which marked the 100-year-old company"s car-building comeback in 2000.
Lamp posts and signs...
Lamp posts and signs could soon be used to help reduce congestion on UK roads. Exeter-based technology firm LastMile has developed a new solar-powered transceiver, which can be fitted into road furniture and used to beam traffic information into cars. It is working on the project with Qinetiq – the company which carries out weapons testing for the Ministry of Defence.
Three of the drinks can-sized devices hidden inside a lamp post have the ability to relay information to passing vehicles within 100 metres. They can link up with each car’s on-board computer and sat-nav system to warn of any delays ahead.
The transceivers would also provide a wireless connection to the Internet, enabling their ÷£1,200 price to be recouped by selling ads streamed to passing motorists. Students based at the University of Abertay in Dundee will begin testing the technology this autumn, and trials in two UK towns will follow.