Yeti sighting

The fabled Yetiis making an appearance at this week's Geneva Motor Show. But no, it's not the furry one. It's a Skoda design study. The compact SUV concept is a showcase for potential future Skoda features such as the wrap-around windscreen.

Nessie spotted

Alongside the Yeti will be another fabled creature, Nessie. Also a four-paw car, this one is from Mitsubishi, debuting a four-wheel-drive wagon powered by a hydrogen-fuelled V8. Alongside it is expected a Colt cabrio, a car which could make it into production within 12 months. The Pininfarina coupe-cabrio is based on the Colt platform, and will offer two-plus-two seats and a range of engines.

In sharp Focus

Ford will introduce an ST performance version of its Focus small car at the Geneva show tomorrow. The new ST will replace the 2.0-litre engine with a 2.5-litre, five-cylinder unit delivering more than 160kW via a six-speed manual gearbox. The orange show car will sit on 18-inch aluminium rims shod with low-profile tyres, while visual tweaks include a tailgate spoiler, a chrome-tipped dual sport exhaust and a venturi-effect rear bumper.

Hydrogen charges ahead

Hydrogen-powered cars have taken a step closer with Hyundai testing three hydrogen-fuelled Tucson SUVs in the US. To supply them it's built a hydrogen recharge station near LA. Built by the US Department of Energy and jointly run by Hyundai and Chevron Texaco, it is the first of five hydrogen recharge stations planned by the Korean car company.

Alloytec on hold

The future of Holden's Alloytec engine could be in doubt after a decision to abandon the Altona engine block project intended to supply Holden's engine plant from 2006. The plant supplies Australia and export markets, including the US and the Middle East. GM's announcement that Holden will be the sole supplier for Saab's new 2.8-litre V6 has added pressure to the search for an alternative block. But Holden fans shouldn't panic - the company could continue with the present Mexican source, also supplying blocks to the St Catherines, US, Alloytec plant.

V8 Rover sedan

MG-Rover is importing new cars, says Kerry Cheyne, operations manager for MG Rover NZ. And to prove it, a $87,990 headlining V8 sedan has arrived. The 4.6-litre manual sedan, dubbed the MG ZT 260, is fitted with a V8 engine sourced from the US, where it's slotted under the Mustang's bonnet. MG's mated it to a five-speed gearbox driving the rear, not front, wheels while auto customers can opt for the same engine in a softer, Rover version.

Direct debit

London's Mayor Ken Livingstone is to increase the scope of his road charging plan with camera-based systems replaced by tag readers. Placed on motorway slip roads, the readers would deduct money straight from driver's bank accounts as they enter or leave the motorway. Tagless cars would be photographed, and fines sent through the post. The system, under trial in London, would roll out by February 2009.