News In Brief

Record-breaking Skoda Czechs in
Here's some Fab news for Czech car fans! The two millionth Skoda Fabia has just rolled off the production line in Pune, India. The record-breaking car was a Satin Grey Fabia Estate 1.4-litre petrol. Including hatchback and load-lugging variants, the number of new Fabia models registered this year adds up to 63,579.

Out on limb with crash test dummy
The Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) has got a leg up on the competition, by creating the most realistic crash test limb ever! It’s known as SensorLeg and is modelled on an average male – simulating real muscle shape, flesh density and the way bones fracture. Developers will be able to use it to accurately test and evaluate active pedestrian safety systems, such as pop-up bonnets.

Get a load of new ‘car-like’ luggage
Now there’s a new range ofluggage that motorists can easily handle! Samsonite has introduced a line-up of ‘Spinners’ cases aimed at keen drivers, which are claimed to have car-like features. They are made from a strong composite material known as CURV, and have light and tough wheels at each corner for easy direction changes. There’s even a handbrake for stopping on a slope!

IS and GS in fuel line recall blow
Lexus's legendary reputation for reliability has taken a knock. The firm has been forced to recall nearly 4,000 of its IS 250s and GS 300s, built between June and December 2005. The fault affects the cars’ fuel lines, where a section within the engine bay could develop a crack, and possibly leak.

Queen’s honour for Brit 4x4 firm
It's a double delight for Land Rover, which scooped not one but two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise recently. An increase in export sales by 52 per cent in three years, to nearly £4billion a year, landed the marque the prize for International Trade. Meanwhile, its patented Terrain Response System picked up the award for innovation.