Car News

A prototype based on the current-generation Volkswagen Golf has been spotted near the Nurburgring this week, having previously been snapped during winter testing in Sweden. What's interesting is that this appears to be an early development mule for a crossover model, given the extended wheel arches hiding wider tracks front and rear, jacked-up suspension, and a modified rear.

Fiat Chrysler (FCA) has completed the sale of it Magneti Marelli parts division to Calsonic Kansei for €5.8 billion ($9.2 billion) in cash. The sale price was adjusted down from the €6.2 billion ($9.8 billion) figure announced last year, as Magneti Marelli's financial position had changed. Magneti Marelli produces many automotive components, ranging for lights, powertrain parts, suspension gear and exhaust systems to motorsport pieces.

As the debate surrounding electric vehicles reaches a fever pitch, the CEO of Australia's Electric Vehicle Council has called out the Federal Energy Minister for "truly ludicrous" comments surrounding the technology. Angus Taylor, Federal Energy Minister, this week claimed Labor is readying a 'housing tax' to fund the installation of charge infrastructure in new housing developments.

Renault is set to propose a merger to Nissan, but the chances of success seem low at this stage. A source has outlined Renault's proposed merger plans to The Nikkei. In the proposal, a new holding company will be formed to own 100% of Renault and Nissan, with current shareholders swapping their current shares for stakes in the new company.

Mazda Australia has issued a recall for its previous-generation 'BM' and 'BN' 3 small car from the 2015 to 2017 model years, over concerns the windscreen wipers could stop working. The Japanese manufacturer reports affected units could have a defective relay within the Front Body Control Module (F-BCM), which could cause the windscreen wipers to "become inoperative".