In brief: Aussies take aim at dungers

The Australian Government has proposed a scrappage scheme that would give A$2000 ($2538) to motorists trading an older, less fuel-efficient car for a new one. The proposal anticipates removing 200,000 pre-1995 vehicles from the roads during the four years to 2014, but assumes those currently driving old bombs can afford a new car.

High-seas supercar launched
Swedish luxury yacht-maker Strand-Craft has launched a streamlined, 38-metre super-yacht that comes with its own twin-turbo 656kW V12 supercar which drives on and off via a stern garage.

Mustang hits new speeds
Ford US will launch its quickest-ever Mustang. It uses the Mustang GT's 5.0-litre V8 engine boosted to 324kW and 515Nm, mated to a six-speed manual transmission, plus enhanced suspension and brakes. A track variant loses the rear seats and adds race-ready upgrades.

Motor makeover for Mini
Mini plans to replace its PAG-sourced diesel with the same 1.6-litre three-cylinder diesel it puts in the 116d, but it'll need re-engineering to fit. The move is aimed at cutting CO2 emissions below 100g/km.

Ford funding up for grabs
New Zealand universities could benefit from millions of dollars of Ford money. Its University Research Programme distributes grants to universities working on new ideas and technology that could benefit future vehicle development - from thermoplastics, to alert systems for diabetic drivers and the environmental impact of electric batteries. Ford has awarded more than NZ $82m in the last 20 years. Grant applications close September 15.

Third Lamborghini on cards
Word is Lamborghini will launch a four-door supercar despite shelving the Estoque concept last year in response to the recession. A third model may revive flagging sales, down 18 per cent on last year.