Google, BMW, Apple, Lotus, Toyota.

Google uncovered: As the Guardian reveal, the internet giant already set up Google Auto LLC back in late 2011, founding its very own car company. It is now licensed as car manufacturer, too, which might surprise all those who Google made believe that it had no intention of becoming their competitor anytime soon. The grounds to sell passenger cars have been laid.
theguardian.com

BMW and Apple update: Details about talks between the IT firm and the German carmaker over the BMW i3 have emerged through Reuters. Insiders said Apple was interested in developing its own car, while BMW was equally keen on guarding its status as manufacturer rather than becoming a mere supplier. Still, both companies intend to keep communication channels open.
reuters.com

Lotus hybrid SUV? British Lotus Cars is collaborating with Chinese Goldstar to develop its first SUV, Car Magazine reports. The new model will be offered in China by 2020 and the magazine believes that a hybrid version to be “likely.”
carmagazine.co.uk

Canada strengthens Toyota and the other way around, as the Japanese carmaker says it would invest 421 million dollars in the production of the next-gen Lexus RX350 and Lexus 450h at its Cambridge facility in Ontario. The Canadian government and province support the investment with 100 million dollars.
morningstar.com, yahoo.com

Yaris extended: The Toyota Yaris line up in the UK now includes the Active and Sports version as hybrids. The Yaris Hybrid Active is available from 14,995 pounds. The Yaris Hybrid Sport starts at 16,695 pounds. Both cars share the hybrid system with a combined output of 73 kW.
carsuk.net