A Chinese Porsche Boxster driver is in trouble for using toothpaste to avoid the law. The owner used it to change the 1s on his licence plates to 7s. This ended up attracting the attention of police, who thought the 7s didn't look right. The owner was fined $425 and lost his licence.
Fans in a spin over soft-top sketch
Doing the rounds of the internet is this sketch of the new Honda NSX convertible. It is said to be part of a package of drawings intended for the US patent office. Whatever it is, it's got American NSX fans in a tizzy.
'Greenest' supercar can't compete on go-fast front
Nissan's luxury arm Infiniti rolled out its hybrid Emerg-E at Geneva, tagging it the "greenest" supercar. It might be green, but its performance lags behind Ferrari 458, Lamborghini Gallardo and Lexus LFA.
The Emerg-E bolts to 100km/h in four seconds and offers a 500km range. It is powered by a 300kW motor, with a petrol engine recharging its batteries.
Drive in the dark and save money
British roading authorities are studying whether lighting along main roads should be dimmed or even turned off to save the Government money and reduce carbon emissions.
A BBC report says the Highways Agency is investigating lowering lighting levels at night, but only when traffic levels are "very low" to ensure safety is maintained.
The study, which will continue until next year, will include consultation with Britain's Institution of Lighting Professionals, and the agency says any changes will be in line with international standards.
No figures have been given on how much money would be saved by turning the lights down, or what sort of carbon reduction could be expected.
We are the world
* Mayor Jim Preacher of the United States town of Norway, South Carolina, was pulled over by a state trooper for speeding. Preacher said he was on a mayoral emergency and was entitled to speed. The cop replied: "You weren't and you're not," and gave him a ticket. As soon as the trooper drove off, the mayor turned on his own blue lights, chased the trooper down and accused him of speeding. The mayor claims he has police powers because Norway disbanded its police department last year.
* British household services company LocalTraders.com is planning a "world watching-paint-dry championship" for this year. Competitors will be selected on "mental strength, concentration and endurance". Finalists will be asked their favorite colour, which will be painted on a wall. Whoever stares the longest without turning away will win. Said a spokesman: "Previous paint-watching experience is not essential."
