A recent event helped numerous motoring enthusiasts find elusive car parts, it has been claimed.

Organisers of the Autojumble at Beaulieu declared this year’s gathering – which took place on September 12th and 13th – a huge success.

They claimed prices for car spares were set at realistic levels and traders reported brisk sales.

Saturday was slightly busier than Sunday and in total some 38,500 people visited the event over the course of the weekend.

This was 2,000 more than last year and the same as in 2006 – which was the best-attended Autojumble since 1992.

Commenting on the 2009 event, the individuals behind the sale stated: "The biggest problem was persuading people to leave at the end of the show."

Next year’s event is scheduled for September 11th and 12th.

Earlier this year, visitors to Beaulieu were given the opportunity to hear the start-up roar of some of the world’s most prestigious vehicles, as high-performance bikes and cars were put through their paces in the venue’s arena.

A UK company has been displaying some of its latest car part developments at the Cenex National Low Carbon Vehicle Event.

Caparo has been working with Lotus Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover and MIRA to produce a lightweight executive saloon that releases less than 120 g/km of CO2.

The firm played its part in the project – known as Limo Green – by building a rear sub-frame, which is 40 per cent lighter than a comparable production version.

It has also built seats that weigh 38 per cent less than those they are replacing, while still maintaining all the same functions.

Technical director Ben Scott-Geddes said the auto parts it has created could help make transport more efficient.

He commented: "It is a well-known fact that weight reduction is a key factor in diminishing the fuel that cars consume."

Earlier this year, Caparo’s T1 model took part in the Le Mans 24 Hours’ Drivers Parade.

A number of the car parts on the revised Lexus LS 600h have been improved, it has been claimed.

The manufacturer drew attention to the auto’s brakes, which have been updated to offer less vibration and quieter performance.

In addition, the changes are designed to ensure outstanding high-speed stopping power.

The products in question are 380 mm ventilated front disc brakes that were developed in partnership with specialist company Brembo.

Other revisions to the car include a new eco driving mode, redesigned seating and updated equipment.

According to Lexus, all these amendments help advance the vehicle’s comfort and performance.

The model was unveiled for the first time at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, which got underway this week.

Visitors to the German auto event will also be able to see the manufacturer’s LF-Ch full hybrid concept.

Lexus claimed this car has been created in response to growing demand for smaller, green models that still offer high levels of driving pleasure and refinement.

Certain car parts need even more attention than usual as the weather starts to get wetter, it has been claimed.

According to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), drivers need to take particular care of their tyres during the damp autumn months.

It explained a lack of tread depth can result in skidding and accidents, especially on slippery surfaces.

The group claimed motorists whose car tyres have grip of less than 0.5 mm are seven times more likely to lose control than those equipped with new products.

IAM added it should be obvious these important vehicle parts need special attention.

Head of technical advice Tim Shallcross commented: "As tyres have only the area of the sole of your shoe in touch with the road at any one time, it’s a safety no-brainer to keep them in top condition."

Meanwhile, TyreSafe recently claimed the pressure of these crucial car parts should be checked at least once a month.

New technology being displayed at the Frankfurt International Motor Show will change the way one important car part is designed in the future, it has been claimed.

According to Kumho, its tyre laser etching system will have a profound effect on tread patterns.

The group revealed it will produce the design in two distinct stages from now on.

First, it will concentrate on functional requirements.

Then, any extra design features will be added to the tyre using the etching system.

Managing director Roger Jenkins explained: "The new laser technology will allow us far more freedom at the design stage and the ability to experiment with any number of patterns and surface finishes."

Currently, the process involves a compromise between functionality and aesthetics, the company claimed.

In related news, Auto Express recently declared that Continental’s ContiPremiumContact 2 tyre is the best all-round product available on the market at the moment, after it conducted tests on a number of leading brands.

New Ford engines could help drivers protect the planet and their pockets, it has been suggested.

The manufacturer has revealed further details of its EcoBoost petrol units at the Frankfurt International Motor Show.

It claimed the engines should prove to be an attractive alternative to hybrid or diesel powertrains.

According to the company, the units should reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 20 per cent, compared to conventional petrol versions.

It also stated the products offer excellent fuel economy and low ownership costs.

Chairman and chief executive officer of the firm John Fleming stated: "The new family of Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engines coming in 2010 is a key element of Ford Motor Company’s global blueprint for sustainability."

In related news, the same manufacturer recently announced it had been required to increase production of its current powertrains, as a result of growing demand for its autos created by the various scrappage schemes introduced across Europe.

The new Vauxhall Astra features certain car parts and technology rarely seen in models in the compact sector, it has been claimed.

According to the manufacturer, the revised auto represents excellent value for money.

It pointed out the entry-level edition of the car costs less than £300 more than its predecessor, yet includes electronic stability control, air conditioning, 16-inch wheels and a radio/CD player with mp3 connection.

This version of the vehicle is priced at £15,675.

Meanwhile, further up the range, the Astra Sri 1.4i Turbo comes with additional features, such as a centre armrest, active head restraints and electronic parking brake.

Vauxhall claimed buyers may also find the cost of ownership falls as a result of lower CO2 emissions and insurance group ratings.

Motorists can order the model immediately, with first deliveries scheduled for December.

In related news, the manufacturer previously revealed it was producing some special editions of the Astra for police forces up and down the UK.

A revised model from Volvo boasts better green credentials than ever, the manufacturer has announced.

The updated C30 1.6D DRIVe with Start/Stop technology now boasts CO2 emissions of less than 100 g/km.

As a result, people buying the car will be exempt from paying road tax.

Volvo said it put in a lot of time and effort to improve the environmental performance of the model.

Spokesman Peter Ewerstrand explained the company had set itself a goal of reducing emissions below the 100 g/km level.

"We’ve left absolutely no stone unturned in our determination to reach this target and it’s wonderful that we have succeeded," he stated.

The car also boasts fuel economy of 74.3 mpg, which means motorists may find the auto helps them save money at the pump.

Meanwhile, drivers keen to protect their no-claims bonus may want to consider the Volvo XC60 when they come to trade in their current vehicle.

The model comes with City Safety technology, which has been designed to reduce the likelihood of low-speed accidents.

Motorists may be impressed with the range of high-tech car parts that feature in a new model from Saab.

The 9-5 saloon comes with adaptive headlights, a head-up information display, keyless entry and starting, dynamic parking assistance, dual-zone climate control and an adaptive chassis with damping control.

Saab claimed when the car arrives in showrooms in 2010, it will be an excellent alternative to other motors in the premium sector.

Buyers opting for a diesel version of the auto will find CO2 emissions start from 139 g/km.

However, there will be a petrol option and an E85 bioethonol-powered edition as well.

Managing director of the manufacturer Jan-Ake Jonsson commented: "We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance."

Earlier this year, the Saab 9-3X crossover arrived on the UK market, priced at less than £25,000.

Some extra Chevrolet car parts being offered with the Aveo 1.2S are sure to make the model a popular choice with younger motorists, the manufacturer has claimed.

For an additional £500 over the list price, buyers will benefit from a styling pack that includes a chrome exhaust finisher and skid plates, side skirts, chrome-effect air vent surrounds and door pins, along with a tailgate and front bumper spoiler.

On top of this, drivers can opt for metallic paint and will be offered one year’s fully comprehensive insurance.

The whole package will set motorists back £8,995.

In order to be eligible, drivers must be aged between 21 and 80.

Chevrolet stated: "The Aveo with style accessory pack is the ideal car for recent graduates or younger workers, who would otherwise pay more than the option price for their insurance alone."

Earlier this year, the manufacturer claimed the popularity of its autos in the UK was starting to grow.