The Volvo C30 Electric is already out on the roads throughout Europe. The car was developed in an unusually short space of time, but what happened behind the scenes? This can now be seen in ten films that describe the project from start to finish. The Volvo C30 Electric is a modern car that does not compromise on safety, performance, comfort or user-friendliness - the traditional hallmarks of any Volvo. All told, about 100 specialists from Volvo Car Special Vehicles, Volvo Car Corporation and technology experts Consat AB and I3tex AB worked together on the research and development programme, which was almost as far-reaching as construction of an all-new car model.

Hot on the heels of the recently launched GTC, these are the first official pics of the new Astra VXR, which goes on sale next year and is set to become one of the most powerful cars in its class and the fastest production Astra in Vauxhall’s history. Based on the GTC’s platform and powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine, the Astra VXR produces 280hp of power and a mighty 400Nm of torque, enough for it to achieve a top speed of 155mph. But while the Astra VXR is based on the new GTC, it has benefited from a raft of bespoke chassis modifications, transforming it into a focused, high-performance coupe. Setting it apart from all other current Astras is a specially developed mechanical limited slip differential, which works on the front wheels. In conjunction with the GTC’s sophisticated HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut), the LSD provides the Astra VXR with exceptional lateral grip and traction through bends.

Exclusively for the european market, the sporty KIA Picanto 3-door version was honored with 2012 iF product design award. 2012 iF product design award recognizes design quality alongside a number of criteria, like innovativeness, workmanship or eco-friendliness. This is the 4th iF product design award in 3 years, the company received one in 2010 for the Venga B-segment and in 2011 for the Sportage compact SUV and Optima mid-size sedan.

Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is despatching two new stars to the Los Angeles Auto Show 2011: the Porsche press conference in the Convention Centre on 16 November at 12:05 p.m. (PST) will put the spotlight fair and square on the debut of the new 911 Carrera on the American continent and on the world premiere of a model boasting impressive performance and dynamic looks, exuding unadulterated driving pleasure.

Volkswagen has today released the first images of its new CC, which will be officially unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16. If it looks familiar, don’t be surprised: over 270,000 people across the world have been won over by its predecessor the Volkswagen Passat CC’s blend of four-door practicality and sleek coupé-like styling. At the front, the new radiator grille has strong horizontal lines that represent Volkswagen’s new design DNA, flanked by new bi-xenon headlights and topped with a reprofiled bonnet. The bumper is different, too, with a new extra air intake, and silver-coloured ‘winglets’ that frame the fog lights. Along the side, the frameless doors are carried over from the previous model, but more sculpted sills, revised bumpers and the new bonnet add up to create a subtly updated silhouette.