CARS & RACE GLOBALMAG April 2015

April 2015

digital monthly magazine

IT’S TIME TO DREAM a

m o r f S W E N e h t l l

NEW

L U O E S & K R YO

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CONTENTS

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April 2015

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FRONT PAGE

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Inspired Light - VIDEO

AUTONEWS New York Motor Show April news It’s time to dream!

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MISS OF THE MONTH

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FOCUS

Aston Martin DBX Concept

Qoros 3 City Suv

digital monthly magazine

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GLOBAL NEWS

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CLASSIC

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Cadillac Couture The rebirth of a legend

The incredible Abarth 1000 Elegance in Florida

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Infiniti brings a spectacular performance to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

INSPIRED

D LIGHT Infiniti in the Middle East, together with its strategic partner in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Al Ghassan Motors, delivered a groundbreaking performance of light painting with cars, “Inspired Light by Infiniti� to its customers in Riyadh

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INSPIRED LIGHT

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t an exclusive Infiniti themed event held at the Al Reem track, the region’s fastest growing premium automotive brand engaged with its fans in the Kingdom through an exciting day of activities that included track driving, off-roading and a wildlife safari. The Al Reem track activity concludes the nation-wide campaign, called “It’s Time for Infiniti,” which used Infiniti vehicles to engage with Saudi nationals beginning with Jeddah in 2014 and more recently, in Riyadh and Al Khobar. Spanning the last five weeks, Infiniti’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter platforms highlighted the video diaries of five families that hosted Infiniti vehicles and toured their

favorite locations around the city.

“We saw this as the perfect opportunity to engage with our fans here in the Kingdom,” said Juergen Schmitz, managing director, Infiniti Middle East. “As a premium automotive manufacturer, it’s a top priority to provide our customers with a relevant offering, so we too feel that it is also equally important for us to afford our fans a chance to really live and revel in the Infiniti spirit.”

The day’s activity concluded with a gala dinner where the world’s leading light painter, Patrick Rochon, and his team put on an exceptional display of “Inspired Light by Infiniti.”

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“As Infiniti’s strategic partner in the region, we are committed to giving our customers the best Infiniti has to offer,” said Sheikh Ghassan A H Al Sulaiman, President of Al Ghassan Motors. “Through our facilities in Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar, we are able to offer the entire Infiniti range to our customers. Additionally, initiatives like the Al Reem track activity provide us with the perfect opportunity to interact with our customers here in the Kingdom and really immerse them in the brand. We remain committed to engaging with our customers to ensure that we provide them with a real feeling of what the premium Infiniti Al Ghassan experience is all about.”

Light painting, a genre of art that requires only darkness and light to create any number of sha-

pes, illustrations, patterns, moods and themes were brought to life using cars. Three iconic QX70 vehicles were transformed into moving light painting brushes to create giant colorful images, making it a perfect tool for illustrating Infiniti’s passion for performance, design, pushing boundaries and of course, originality.

The spectacular performance brings a grand conclusion to Infiniti’s aim of “lighting up” the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through “It’s Time for Infiniti” in line with its expansion and launch of new showrooms and facilities. More importantly over the course of the year, the brand engaged with Saudi families spanning Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar highlighting the wonderful heritage and culture of Saudi Arabia through Infiniti vehicles.

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COUPÉ GT 2500 BY ATS AUTOMOBILI

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CADILLAC CT6

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adillac held the world premiere of the 2016 CT6. The CT6 features one of the industry’s most advanced automotive body structures, an aluminum-intensive architecture that incorpo-

rates 11 different materials to achieve strength, performance and efficiency thresholds practically unmatched among the world’s elite luxury performance sedans. The all-new Cadillac 3.0L Twin Turbo engine offer an estimated 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 400 lb-ft of torque (543 Nm), making it among the most power-dense V-6 engines in the segment, at 133 horsepower (99 kW) per liter.

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CHEVROLET Malibu / Spark

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hevrolet introduced the all-new 2016 Malibu.

An all-new hybrid powertrain will help offer a GM-estimated 48 mpg city, 45 mpg highway and 47 mpg combined. The Malibu’s standard 1.5L turbo powertrain is projected to offer 37 mpg highway. Its wheelbase has been stretched close to four inches (101 mm), and it is nearly 300 pounds

(136 kg) lighter than the current model. The new Malibu will be offered in L, LS, LT and Premier trims, as well as the Hybrid model.

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he new Spark has a sleeker appearance, thanks to a slightly longer wheelbase, and an overall height about 1.6 inches (40 mm) lower than the current model. The 2016 Spark is powered by an all-new 1.4L engine that is part of GM’s new, global family of Ecotec small-displacement engines. It offers an estimated 98 horsepower (73 kW), a 16-percent increase over the current model.

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GMC Terrain

HONDA

Civic Concept

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onda unveiled its ultra-sporty Civic Concept.

It provides a tantalizing glimpse forward to the thrilling design direction for the all-new 10th-ge-

he 2016 GMC Terrain lineup features new front and rear fascias, new grille designs, a power dome hood, light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and additional updates. Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are offered on SLE and SLT models for the first time.

The standard Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected engine delivers an EPA-estimated 32 mpg on the highway (FWD models). A direct-injected 3.6L V-6 is available and delivers best-in-class 301 horsepower (225 kW) and 272 lb-ft of torque (369 Nm). The V-6 engine also enables a trailering capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg).

neration Civic lineup launching in the U.S. this fall.

The low and wide proportions are underscored by its more aggressive wheel-to-body relationship and pronounced fender arches. Leveraging this new platform in conjunction with new Earth Dreams Technology powertrains – including a new 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine with direct injection - is a short-shifting 6-speed manual transmission.

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INFINITI QX50

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he 2016 Infiniti QX50 features new exterior styling, an extended wheelbase and more than eight cubic feet of additional interior room. The QX50’s new front end brings its appearance more in line with the

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yundai unveiled its all-new Tucson crossover utility vehicle. It offers a new sporty exterior and appealing interior design while making overall fuel efficiency a top priority. Base models offer a Nu engine family, 2.0-liter, direct-injected fourcylinder with an estimated 164 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Based on internal tests, fuel economy for the 2.0L FWD model is estimated at 23 (city), 31 (highway), 26 (combined). Eco, Sport and Limited models offer a new, Gamma engine family, 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with an estimated 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Tucson will also offer an advanced AWD system developed by Hyundai in conjunction with Magna Powertrain.

design language that first appeared in the Infiniti Q50 and Q70 – including its new LED Daytime Running Lights and LED fog lights. There’s also a new side sill design, a new rear fascia, LED side mirror turn signals and a new 19-inch wheel design. As in previous years, the 2016 QX50 is equipped with a standard 325-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission. It is scheduled to go on sale in North America in fall 2015.

JAGUAR XF

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he all-new XF retains these core attributes but uses the new Jaguar advanced aluminum-intensive architecture to elevate them to a completely new level. Featuring 75 percent aluminum, the architecture enables weight savings of 132lbs on RWD models and 265lbs

KIA

OPTIMA

on AWD models and an increase in torsional stiffness. Two 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engines will be offered in the first model year featuring 340hp/332lb. ft. and 380hp/332lb. ft. ratings.

Both engines are matched exclusively to eightspeed automatic transmissions.

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vailable with three engine choices, including a new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that’s mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission, the new Kia Optima is roomier, with a more luxurious cabin that will feature five trim levels – LX, LX Turbo, EX, SX Turbo and SXL – when sales begin in the fourth quarter of 2015. The new 1.6-liter will be offered on the LX trim. Pushing out an estimated 178 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a stout 195 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,500 rpm, the new engine mates to a seven-speed DCT, a first for the Kia brand. The transmission optimizes the engine’s responsiveness for a sporty feel that doesn’t sacrifice fuel economy.

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LINCOLN

ture full-width tail lamps feature advanced lightthrough-chrome technology. Powerful LED matrix head lamps with laser-assist high beams reduce glare and improve visibility. Rhapsody Blue metallic paint calls back Lincoln Continental’s signature color. Under the skin, the Continental Concept is powered by a Lincoln-exclusive 3.0-liter V6 EcoBoost engine. It also features Lincoln Drive Control ride-enhancing technologies and Adaptive Steering. The car rides on polished-aluminum, painted-pocket 21-inch wheels.

RX

Continental Concept

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incoln introduced the Continental Concept. With a sleek silhouette and a new centered chrome grille, the Continental Concept signals the arrival of a new face for Lincoln. A raised Lincoln badge is surrounded by a span of repeating polished aluminum Lincoln Star emblems. Outside, signa-

he RX with all-new sheet metal makes a powerful visual statement at first glance. A completely new front end is highlighted by an emboldened spindle grille, more aggressive front bumper and available triple L-shaped LED headlamps. Rearseat occupants are treated to more leg and knee space. Under the RX 350’s hood is an upgraded and more powerful 3.5-liter V6 aiming to deliver 300 hp with direct injection, mated to a new eightspeed automatic transmission. Based on this enhanced powertrain is the RX 450h’s Atkinsoncycle 3.5-liter V6. When combined with the electric motor generator, the combined output results in around 300 hp. The RX can also be fitted with the F SPORT enhancement package.

MAZDA MX-5 Club

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tandard equipment on MX-5 Club models includes MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system with a seven-inch color touchscreen display, HD and SiriusXM Satellite Radio, piano black side mirrors and seatback bars and a nine-speaker Bose audio system with headrest speakers.

Also available for the MX-5 Club is a package that

equips the roadster with forged lightweight BBS 17-inch wheels, Brembo front brakes and functional aerodynamic side sill extensions and rear bumper skirt. All MX-5s bound for North America will come with compact LED headlights, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine.

MCLAREN 570S Coupe

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t combines a power output of 570PS (562bhp) with lightweight construction to give a class leading power-to-weight ratio of 434PS per tonne. The 570S accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, while 200 km/h (124 mph) is reached in just 9.5 seconds with the pace not letting up till the car reaches a top

speed of 328 km/h (204mph). The Coupé is the first bodystyle to be shown in the Sports Series, highlighting the latest evolution of the McLaren design philosophy. The unique carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis has been newly designed offering improved ingress and egress from the cabin.

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MERCEDES-BENZ GLE & AMG GLE63

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or the first time in its SUV history, Mercedes-Benz offers a plug-in hybrid model, the GLE550e 4MATIC, that will best the already low fuel consumption figures of the efficient GLE300d with four-cylinder diesel engine, while delivering the performance of a V8 model. In addition to the appealing design, the variable driving experience thanks to DYNAMIC SELECT and the assistance systems familiar from the E- and S-Class, the GLE impresses with an extensive engine line-up. Five equally efficient and powerful powertrain options

with four, six or eight cylinders are available to choose from. he design of the new Mercedes-AMG GLE63 underscores the performance of the SUV. Wheel arch flares in vehicle colour provide space for the large wheels. As standard, tires of size 265/45 R 20 are mounted on 9J x 20 AMG multispoke light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with high-sheen finish. The extensive range of standard equipment of the new GLE is based on the predecessor model, enhanced with new assistance systems such as Crosswind Assist and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. ECO start/stop function, the DYNAMIC SELECT controller on the centre console are also part of the standard delivery scope.

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NISSAN Maxima

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issan unveiled the all-new Nissan Maxima that showcases Nissan’s new design language –including V-Motion front end, signature boomerang lights, kick-up C-pillars and unique floating roof appearance. The new Maxima’s

MITSUBISHI Outlander

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itsubishi unveiled the new 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander seven-passenger crossover. Numerous design and engineering improvements have been made to the chassis of the 2016 Outlander, including increased body and suspension structural rigidity, redesigned suspension and Electric Power Steering. The exterior design features include a redesigned front fascia, LED position lights, lower door sections, 18-in. alloy wheels and rear fascia and LED taillights.

3.5-liter VQ-series V6 has been redesigned with more than 60 percent new parts. With 300 horsepower, Maxima has a high specific output of 85.7 horsepower/liter. Complementing the revised powerplant is a new, performance-oriented Xtronic transmission featuring a wider ratio range. The all-new Maxima, now offered in five grade levels including new SL, SR and Platinum grades, goes on sale in early summer 2015 with a $32,410 starting MSRP.

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PORSCHE Boxter Spyder

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orsche hosted the world premiere of the new Boxster Spyder. Staying true to roadster DNA, the Boxster Spyder offers a traditional sports-car driving experience combined with truly exceptional performance. This includes a firm sport suspension with

a 20-mm lower ride height, brakes taken from the 911 Carrera S, more direct steering, and a 3.8-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine with an output of 375 hp. It is the lightest model of the current Boxster line, and the most powerful Boxster to date.

Taking only 4.3 seconds to sprint from 0 to 60 mph, the Boxster Spyder has a top track speed of 180 mph. The new Boxster Spyder will be launched in the U.S. market in October with a price of $82,100.

RANGE ROVER SVAutobiography

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eplacing the Autobiography Black at the top of the Range Rover line-up, SVAutobiography is available with a powerful 550hp supercharged V8 engine. Shared with the Range Rover Sport SVR, and tuned specifically for the SVAutobiography, this potent engine produces 550hp and 502lb. ft. of torque. It comes with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The combination of Santorini Black upper body and nine color choices for the lower body create true distinction and individualism. The 2016 Range Rover SVAutobiography features unique hood lettering and the tailgate is adorned with new SVAutobiography badging. A new front grille is finished in distinctive Graphite Atlas and polished chrome, furthering its visual differentiation.

SCION iM & iA

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he all-new Scion iM arrives in dealerships this fall, starting under $20,000. The cabin is roomy, refined, versatile and high-tech-equipped.

The 137 hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine uses Valvematic continuously variable valve timing technology to offer a broad torque curve. The Scion iM has a standard 6-speed stick shift. Automatic transmission in optional. Scion iA will arrive in dealerships this fall for an estimated MSRP in the $16,000-range. That’s for a mono-spec model equipped with standard Low-speed Pre-collision safety system and 7-inch multi-media system

with voice activation. The 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is coupled to a standard 6-speed manual, compact and lightweight.

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SUBARU

STI Performance Concept

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he Subaru STI Performance Concept is a showcase for the engineering prowess

TOYOTA RAV4 Hybrid

and tuning capability of Subaru Tecnica international (STI), featuring the racing engine developed by STI for the BRZ Super GT racecar, suspension and chassis components and aerodynamic upgrades. STI was founded as Subaru parent company Fuji Heavy Industries’ motor sports division in 1988.

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aunching towards the end of the year, the RAV4 Hybrid will be offered in two premium grades: XLE and Limited. Both grades will be equipped with an Electronic On-Demand AllWheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWDi). Also available will be unique 17-inch alloy wheels and six exterior colors (Super White, Blizzard Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Classic Silver Metallic, Black Sand Pearl and a new BLUE). The conventional gas version RAV4 will come in four grades: LE, XLE, Limited and the new SE. Together with the new Hybrid XLE and Limited, all 2016 RAV4 models will feature refreshed exterior styling, providing a sleeker, more dynamic appearance.

VOLKSWAGEN Beetle concepts

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olkswagen showed four unique Beetle and Beetle Convertible concepts that help to commemorate Volkswagen of America’s 60th anniversary. The Beetle Convertible Denim is powered by a 170-horsepower 1.8-liter TSI engine.

On the exterior, the fast opening power soft top features a dark blue, textured fabric resembling denim. Naturally, the use of denim extends to the interior as well. There is growing demand for a pink Beetle at Volkswagen dealers. Volkswagen will be assessing public reaction to the Beetle

Pink Color Edition and a limited edition is possible if that reaction is positive. There’s only one logical choice of exterior color: Pink Metallic. The Beetle Convertible Wave is designed to enjoy the summer. This particular convertible is painted in Habanero Orange Metallic, a spicy color that is offset by bright Tornado 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and chromed door mirrors. The Beetle RLine concept, powered by a 217-hp 2.0-liter TSI engine makes an extremely sporty statement.

The Beetle R-Line concept is finished in Oryx White Pearl effect paint and has a customized exterior featuring aggressive bumpers that have large air vents at the front and wrap-around highgloss black moldings that extend down the sides of the car.

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INTERMEETING LA SOCIETÀ CHE ORGANIZZA AUTO E MOTO D’EPOCA A PADOVA PRESENTA IL NUOVO SALONE

FIERA DI VERONA

IL NUOVO GRANDE EVENTO ITALIANO DEDICATO ALLE AUTO D’EPOCA. 8 -9-10 MAGGIO 2015 PREVIEW

VUOI VENDERE LA TUA AUTO D’EPOCA O LA TUA INSTANT CLASSIC? Portala a Verona Legend Cars.

Contatta la segreteria organizzativa o visita il nostro sito e prenota il tuo spazio in Fiera.

VUOI ORGANIZZARE UN RADUNO DI CLUB IN FIERA? Vuoi organizzare un raduno per il tuo Club di auto d’epoca? Ti aspettiamo in fiera con tanto spazio per ospitare le auto dei soci.

E sarai nostro ospite all’Arena di Verona.

Per informazioni contatta la segreteria organizzativa.

Segreteria organizzativa: Intermeeting Srl - Via Fornace Morandi 24 - 35133 Padova T +39 049 7386856 - Fax +39 049 9819826 - e mail: info@veronalegendcars.com - www.veronalegendcars.com

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BUICK

Envision 20T & Excelle GT

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hanghai GM launched the Buick Envision 20T, the newest member of its Envision mainstream SUV lineup, across China. The Envision 20T is powered by a 1.5T Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI) engine that is matched with an intelligent seven-speed DCG transmission. Like its sibling, the Envision 28T, it is available with front-wheel drive and intelligent all-wheel drive.

The intelligent seven-speed DCG transmission is another achievement in GM’s small-displacement powertrain development.

The all-new Excelle GT has a dynamic exterior design, spacious interior and advanced level of safety. It is equipped with Buick’s new-generation 1.4T DVVT and 1.5L DVVT in-line four-cylinder powertrains ranging from . Nine variants of the sedan are available.

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Novo Concept

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ia Motors unveiled its latest concept car at the Seoul Motor Show. Featuring bold, coupé-inspired styling and a minimalist, driverfocused cabin, the Kia Novo hints at the design direction for the brand’s next-generation compact vehicles.

Designed at Kia’s state-of-the-art Namyang design center in Korea, and based on a speciallyadapted version of the Cerato (Forte) platform, the Novo bears a coupé-inspired silhouette and unmistakeable Kia styling. The Novo’s minimal front overhangs, longer rear overhangs and fastback roofline, as well as a slim, long glass area, give it a raked, sporty profile.

Focused solely on the driver,the Kia Novo’s cabin provides few distractions from the task of driving, while all occupants benefit from plenty of space, a result of the car’s long body and intelligent packaging.

The Novo is powered by the latest high-tech production Kia powertrain to match its dynamic looks. A 1.6-liter ‘Kappa’ turbo gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine has been paired with the brand’s seven speed DCT to power the front wheels. The result is decisive, sporty performance and impressive fuel economy for Kia’s latest show star. There are currently no plans to bring the Kia Novo concept to production, though Kia has a history of delivering production vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to concept vehicles that precede them.

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HYUNDAI

Enduro CUV Concept RM15 Concept

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yundai Motor Company celebrated its presence at the 11th Seoul Motor Show with the world premiere of an all-new design concept, the ‘Enduro’ lifestyle urban crossover utility vehicle (CUV). Enduro is ‘The Professional Gear’ for drivers wanting to escape from the ordinary. It features a new interpretation of Hyundai’s design signature hexagonal front grille, now with a lower center of gravity creating a sense of stability. An aluminum aero blade connects the front fender to the grille, giving the Enduro a look of self-confidence.

Hyundai also revealed its latest mid-engined model, an aggressively-styled high-performance coupe concept named ‘RM15’ (Racing Midship 2015). The lightweight two-seat concept makes a confident statement about Hyundai Motor’s

passion for performance and its expertise in the development of advanced vehicle technologies.

The RM15 features an aluminum spaceframe as its core structure, with a covering of light, stiff body panels formed in carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), which together help to achieve a significant weight saving compared to a conventional all-steel vehicle. The body panels are painted in the signature colors of the company’s ‘N’ (pale blue, black, red and Hyundai midblue) which also feature on the Hyundai WRC i20 rally car.

The four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine generates 300 ps at 6,000 rpm and drives the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. Strong torque delivery (39 kgm [383 Nm] at 2,000 rpm) helps to reduce the 0-100 km acceleration time to just 4.7 seconds.

LOTUS

Elise 20th Anniversary Edition Exige S Club Racer

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he Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary Special Edition, with its lightweight aero-optimised, composite body, is powered by a 1.8-litre supercharged engine. It reaches 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 145 mph (237 km/h). The benefit of this lightweight is that the Elise 20th Anniversary consumes just 5.9 litres / 100 km (47.6 mpg) extra urban and emits just 173 g of CO2 per km. Four classic Elise colours are available in Blue, Green, Yellow and Silver and the rear diffuser, wing mirrors, roll hoop cover and rear transom are in matt black.

Applying the Lotus refined Club Racer principles to the Exige S results in a model that already excels, thanks to its lightweight aluminium chassistub and aerodynamically enhanced composite bodywork. Its 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine delivers exciting perfor-

mance, benchmark handling and a pure driving experience combined with a 4.0 seconds 0-62mph (0-100km/h) acceleration time and a top speed of 274 km/h (170 mph). The Exige S Club Racer is available in Metallic White, Exige Orange, Metallic Yellow and Matt Black (option). The front splitter, rear wing, front access panel, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear transom are in matt black.

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PROTON

Exora SP

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ROTON launched the facelift variants of Malaysia’s first MPV, the Proton Exora with an additional new variant, the Proton Exora Super Premium (SP) which replaces the Prime variant.

Enhancements to the Exora MPV include steering wheel with leather wrap for better grip, new finishing to the centre console for a sharper look, ergonomic leather seats in the higher variant for extra comfortable driving, rear air-cond vents for complete cabin comfort and rear smoked combilamps styled after sports cars. Seven colours are available.

MAHINDRA

XUV500 Xclusive Edition

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nly a limited number of 700 XUV500 Xclusive Edition will be produced by Mahindra.Features include electric sunroof, reverse camera, aluminum pedals, 6-way Power-adjustable driver’s seat (optional) and anti-pinch driver window with express up and down. The ‘XUV500 Xclusive Edition’ will be available on the W8 model of the XUV500 and it will mount a 140bhp (103Kw) mHawk engine with 330Nm torque and a 6-speed transmission, 5th Generation Variable Geometry Turbocharger.

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IT’S TIME TO DREAM! AUTONEWS

The 85th annual Geneva Motor Show, held this past March, brought as usual an infinite array of new cars and supercars. It is the perfect stage to showcase new designs, new technologies and new projects for the future of the automotive world.

Following this trend the major manufacturers always present several new concept cars, but the Geneva Motor Show organizers take pride in hosting also the works of famous cars designers, minor manufacturers and design schools, each of which unveil, as world premieres, their view of the future.

ED TORQ Throughout automotive history, innovation in production cars has always been tried and tested in the extreme world of racing. For this reason, ED has conceived the advanced concept car: the Torq. “Our goal is to deliver fully functional, entirely Open source, autonomous “mobile laboratories” with our friends at OEMs, Tier One suppliers, IT companies, research institutes, and Universities, allowing them to experiment with all kinds of new APPS to improve all aspects of the quality of life related to the future of assisted mobility,” said ED President, David Pizzorno. The Torq is full electric, with 4 powerful engines that give the car its name, thanks to 320Wh of overall power, plus 1800 Nm of “torque” (modern Formula One cars have only 1000 Nm).

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EDAG LIGHT COCOON The ‘EDAG Light Cocoon’ is a visionary approach towards a compact, dynamic sports car, with a weatherproof textile outer skin panel.

The extremely lightweight outdoor textile ‘Texapore SOFTSHELL O2+’ provides ideal weather protection. LED lighting technology installed behind the textile outer skin panel makes the vehicle’s skeleton-like, organic structure visible, highlighting the vehicle’s new, independent look.

In extremely lightweight concepts of this type any requirements regarding torsional and flexural stiffness and pedestrian protection must be met. The ensuing result was a spider-like, hollow structure designed for an assembly of aluminium profiles of different thicknesses. The calculation results confirmed two things: that the stability requirements were met, and that a weight saving of approx. 25 % was achieved with this bonnet.

IED SYRMA At the 85th Geneva Motor Show the Istituto Europeo di Design presented a world preview of the Syrma concept car, the model designed by the Master in Transportation Design of the Turin Istituto Europeo di Design.

SYRMA (length 4,730mm - width 1,980mm - height 1,155mm - pitch 2,790mm) features an extremely innovative layout: three staggered front seats with central driving position and rear power unit. The concept has a hybrid propulsion system with a V6 twin turbo, approximately 4-litre heat engine and an electric engine that, together, deliver around 900 hp. In electric mode, the car is completely silent and its arrival is perceived through front laser projection of messages and images on the road.

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ITALDESIGN GIUGIARO GEA Italdesign Giugiaro presented the world debut of GEA. The conceptual center of gravity shifts ideally from the driver’s seat, around which the car’s architectural and ergonomic philosophy is usually developed, to the passengers in the rear seats. Once the car drives autonomously it allows the occupants to focus on other tasks or interests.

GEA doesn’t sacrifice sports performance levels, guaranteed by a power train which, thanks to the four electric motors fitted on the differentials, develops 570 kW of power and affords a top speed of 250 km/h. With its generous proportions – 5.37 meters long, a wheelbase of 3.33 meters, 1.98 m wide and 1.46 meters high – GEA joins the luxury saloon segment.

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NANOFLOWCELL QUANT F / QUANTINO Two world premieres were showcased by nanoFlowcell: the QUANT F and the QUANTiNO. The new QUANT F is a complete redesign of its predecessor QUANT E, the electric vehicle equipped with nanoFlowcell technology can reach speeds of more than 300 km/h in full electric drive and without harmful emissions. It has a range of up to 800 kilometres. With its new 2-speed gearbox, the 5.25-metre e-sports limousine weighing in at 2.3 tonnes and capable of carrying four people can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 2.8 seconds.

With the new QUANTiNO, nanoFlowcell AG also unveiled the world’s first QUANT low-voltage vehicle as a concept car.

Operating on a rated voltage of only 48 V, the QUANTiNO generates an output of four times 25 kW/136 PS with a combination of nanoFlowcell, buffer system and electric motors. The QUANTiNO has a top speed of more than 200 km/h and a range of over 1,000 kilometres. As 2+2 seater with a length of 3.91 metres, the car impresses with its unique design. With its two 175-litre tanks, the QUANTiNO has a total capacity of 350 litres of ionic liquids, one carrying a positive charge, the other a negative charge. The refuelling process is similar to how it is done today, with the difference that two tanks are filled with different liquids simultaneously.

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PHIARO P75 CIPHER In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Phiaro Group is presenting the “P75 Concept CIPHER (Cae Integrated PHiaro Engineered Racer),” a lightweight two-seater sports car.

CIPHER is aimed at developing not just another concept car, but a hightech solution showcasing the possibility of the future. Focused on maintaining CIPHER’s unique appearance without sacrificing its drivability, Phiaro Group made the best out of the car’s iconic center frame that also contributed to shape the sophisticated body style, apart from the body look of a typical automobile.

PININFARINA SERGIO Pininfarina held on its stand the world preview of one of the six units of the Ferrari Sergio, a limited edition roadster. Born as a concept car to celebrate Senator Sergio Pininfarina each of the six vehicles comes with a different color and interior configuration. Based on the 458 Spider, it’s an authentic open-top, it explicitly references the track, underscoring and intensifying its sense of sportiness, fun behind the wheel and the pleasure of design at its purest.

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AUTONEWS

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SCUDERIA CAMERON GLICKENHAUS SCG 003 SCG stands for Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus, the company founded and owned by James Glickenhaus. The 003 limited edition sports car presented in Geneva is based on the Ferrari Enzo and is availbable in both track only and street legal version. Powered by a Honda 3.5 liter V12 engine delivering 530 bhp and 516 lb ft of torque this exclusive hypercar will cost around 2.59 million U.S. dollars.

TOURING SUPERLEGGERA BERLINETTA LUSSO Touring Berlinetta Lusso is a street legal vehicle limited to 5 production models.

Touring Superleggera, in designing the Belinetta Lusso, was inspired by the golden age of Italian body shops when dynamism and power where conferred to a car by a single design line running across the entire profile of the vehicle. Based on the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, the lightweight chassis is made with a mix of aluminum and carbon fibre.

Touring Superleggera guarantees the upgraded car can be ready in six months after receiving the donor car. Price will be disclosed upon request.

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ASTON MARTIN DBX Concept

BEYOND CONVENTIONS

Pictures courtesy of Aston Martin Lagonda ltd.

With its first all-electric, all-wheel drive, Aston Martin redefines the luxury GT segment

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BEYOND CONVENTIONS

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ston Martin today challenges the nature of luxury GT travel in the 21st Century with the innovative DBX Concept.

Created to defy conventional thinking about the luxury GT segment, the DBX Concept widens the appeal of the iconic British luxury brand and reaches out to a more diverse global audience.

Unveiling the concept at the recent Geneva Motor Show, Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “The DBX Concept is a challenge to the existing status quo in the high luxury GT segment. It envisages a world, perhaps a world not too far away, when luxury GT travel is not only stylish and luxurious but also more practical, more family-friendly and more environmentally responsible. I asked my team at Aston Martin to expand their thinking beyond conventions, to explore what the future of luxury GT motoring would look like in years ahead, and the DBX Concept you see before you is the result.”

Dr Palmer added: “This is, clearly, not a production-ready sports GT car, but it is a piece of fresh, bold thinking about what Aston Martin GT customers around the world could request of us in the future. The DBX Concept is more than a thought starter for us and for our customers, though. We will, in due course, be entering a car into the new DBX space and I am very much looking forward to seeing how this concept is received not only here today, but also by our legion of existing loyal customers and by those potential customers around the world who have, to this point, yet to consider one of our cars.”

Harmonious design

Imagined by Chief Creative Officer Marek Reichman and his team at the brand’s global headquarters in Gaydon, Warwickshire, the all-electric DBX Concept showcases not only cutting edge engineering but also a major evolution of the British brand’s world-renowned and highly-regarded design language.

Clearly signalling an extension to the brand’s existing model lines in the future, the all-whe-

el drive DBX Concept seamlessly combines traditional Aston Martin beauty with elegant new engineering that gracefully aligns form and function. Capable of accommodating four adults in comfort, the DBX Concept also majors on day-to-day practicality. It offers generous luggage capacity by virtue of the fact that its rear trunk and forward load bay can both accept passengers’ belongings.

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BEYOND CONVENTIONS

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Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer explained: “A concept car such as this should, in my view, challenge conventional thinking and explore the art of the possible. In the DBX Concept, I believe we have created a new type of luxury car that can not only broaden the appeal of Aston Martin to a whole new generation of customers, but sit with pride alongside the rest of our range.�

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Opulence and cutting edge style go handin-hand in the DBX Concept thanks to a unique fusion of high luxury and advanced technology. These characteristics, allied to the ingenious use of unconventional materials and finishes inside and out, are calculated to further broaden the appeal of Aston Martin.

The concept’s exterior bright work emphasises the brand’s approach to the use of authentic materials, and is made up of machined billet aluminium with visible milling lines in a piece of exquisite craftsmanship intended to be seen as the car’s jewellery. The DBX Concept’s unique paint finish – Black Pearl Chromium – has been specially created to mimic the look of a genuine black pearl, and comprises a micro-fine layer of chrome to deliver a level of reflectivity that cannot be obtained through normal paint finishes.

Inside, the deliberate use of non-automotive standard materials generates a uniquely soft, cocooning ambience. The extensive application of velvet-like Nubuck leather contrasts with the concept’s hard, hi-tech equipment.

The exposed leather reveals a sandwiched accent layer, more akin to high-end furniture, while the car’s interior bright ware matches that of the exterior with the addition of a gold ‘pin striping’ element on the edging.

Experimental engineering

Embracing the very latest engineering techniques and theories, the DBX Concept needs no engine compartment thanks to its use of electric, inboard-of-wheel, motors powered by lithium sulphur cells. Drive-by-

wire electric steering, toughened glass with an auto-dimming ‘smart glass’ inter-layer, and bespoke driver and passenger head-up displays are further examples of its cutting edge technology.

Active LED exterior lights, carbon ceramic brakes with a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) and rear view cameras in place of conventional mirrors also underline the mouldbreaking nature of this luxury GT concept.

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New Qoros 3 City Suv

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With a modern distinctive design, enhanced flexibility and a commanding driving position, the third production model from Qoros is ideal for an active city lifestyle. And, of course, it retains the excellent connectivity and high safety standards for which the brand is becoming renowned

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NEW QOROS 3 CITY SUV

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he City SUV was designed and engineered to appeal to consumers with an appetite for living life to the full, and who are looking for a car to fit into their active, premium, city lifestyle. Its distinctive, modern design gives it the flexibility to balance the requirements of the urban commute with the pursuit of weekend leisure activities in the countryside. Sitting at the top of the Qoros range that exhibits international standards of engineering and quality, the new compact urban SUV went on sale in China in December 2014 with prices starting from RMB 139,900.

Sitting 67mm higher than the Hatch, City SUV drivers benefit from a more commanding driving position that delivers a sense of control, safety and security. For day-today city driving the City SUV provides better visibility for the driver, while the increased ride height ensures easier entry and egress. For out-of-town leisure activities, the urban SUV model offers higher ground clearance, larger wheels and robust body protection. The higher ride height enhances driveability and manoeuvrability to give the driver more confidence on rough or uneven road surfaces.

Assembly of the City SUV is currently ramping up on the same production line as the Sedan and Hatch in the brand’s highly-efficient and environmentally-sustainable assembly plant in Changshu, 80km north-west of Shanghai.

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NEW QOROS 3 CITY SUV

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Qoros was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in China. Its international team of experienced automotive experts is leading the development of a range of vehicles that exhibit world-class standards of design, engineering and quality.

Shortly before its China launch in December 2013, the Qoros 3 Sedan became the first car developed in China to be awarded the maximum five-star crash test rating by Euro NCAP and is one of the safest tested in the organisation’s 16-year history.

The City SUV – the brand’s third production model – made its global debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show in November 2014 and went on sale a month later.

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NEW QOROS 3 CITY SUV

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Exterior design The Qoros 3 City SUV features a bold evolution of distinctive signature Qoros design cues, although aesthetic enhancements give the car a unique character and reflect the individualistic preferences of its target customers. For the compact class, the Qoros 3 City SUV features a comparatively long wheelbase (2694mm), generous width (1854mm), and a short rear overhang (815mm). These proportions suit perfectly the vehicle’s bold, high stance (1504mm), distinctive body cladding and detailed styling.

At the front, additional cladding and skid-plate give the face a more rugged, masculine look.

The side profile features bold wheel arches – defined by protective body cladding which continues along the side sills and doors – along with larger wheels and tyres and the larger two-part, two-colour roof spoiler.

The deep rear bumper (part body colour, part graphite) features twin exhaust pipes which are set into a new silver rear skid-plate to provide added protection when traversing poor road conditions.

Reinforcing its increased ride height, the City SUV is offered with large alloy wheels.

As standard, 17-inch alloys are fitted on Active, Style and Style Plus models and 18inch designs on the range-topping Excite model.

Interior In common with all Qoros models, the City SUV’s cabin is dominated by a clean, horizontal design theme that emphasises the spacious interior. The hip-point of the front seats is raised by 10mm, so the driver’s eyelevel is 67mm higher than in the Hatch, giving a commanding view of the road.

The Qoros 3 City SUV offers customers a choice of four trim specifications – Active, Style, Style Plus and Excite.

Standard features on all versions of the City SUV include the brand’s innovative Qoros MMH™ (Multi Media Hub) infotainment system, Bluetooth® for hands free calling and wireless music streaming, all-round electric windows, electric exterior mirrors that feature turn indicator repeaters, and dual exhaust pipes.

Interior feature highlights on the entry-level Active models include keyless start, 17-inch alloy wheels and manual air-conditioning.

The Style models benefit from the six-speed QorosTroniq™ 6DCT automatic transmission, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, cruise control and a rear parking camera, as well as advanced QorosQloud™ 3G connected services with enhanced navigation and networking.

Buyers of Style Plus models receive leather seats with the front seats heated and electrically adjustable, plus automatic door mirror folding, a tyre pressure indicator and a powered tilt/slide sunroof.

The top-of-the-range Excite model adds Xenon headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and keyless start, ‘dusk-sensing’ auto on/off headlights, a rear parking camera with dynamic guideline and distance sensors, and full cabin ambient lighting.

As befits a model designed to deliver optimal lifestyle practicality to active customers, the standard 60:40 split rear seatbacks fold individually to optimise cargo carrying flexibility. Folding both seatbacks down increases cargo capacity to 1,105 litres when loaded to the roof. Style Plus and Excite models incorporate a rear seat ski-hatch.

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Refinement in the interior is optimised thanks to extensive NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) and acoustics development, which was a high priority for Qoros’ vehicle development team. It succeeded in controlling and suppressing vibrations and noise from within the vehicle – engine, transmission and other components – including those triggered externally, such as tyre roar and wind noise.

QorosQloud™ connectivity and touchscreen infotainment QorosQloud – the portal to an exclusive suite of connected services – is included as standard on Style, Style Plus and Excite models in the Qoros 3 City SUV range.

Accessed in the City SUV via the advanced eight-inch Qoros MMH™ system, QorosQloud services can also be accessed from a dedicated website and apps for Apple iOS and

Android. As a result, QorosQloud is integrated across customers’ connected devices and enhances the way they interact with and incorporate their car into their digital lives.

This creates a closer connection than ever between the driver, the vehicle, the dealer and the digital world. It enables motorists to remain ‘always-connected’ to navigation and traffic information, their social networks, and the car’s condition, maintenance and service requirements.

In the car, QorosQloud is accessed through the innovative Qoros MMH system that is fitted as standard to every Qoros. With an eightinch capacitive touchscreen, it is one of the first touchscreen infotainment systems in the world to be specifically designed to maximise the opportunities and capabilities of multitouch gestures. Qoros MMH was designed and developed to safely manage information displays for minimal driver distraction and to

optimise ease-of-use while on the move. The innovative user-interface is based on the finger ‘swipe’ concept of modern smartphones.

Those who enjoy high quality music to enhance their journey have been well catered for across the entire Qoros 3 City SUV range, with a four-speaker 100-watt audio system fitted to the Essence model as standard, and a six-speaker 150-watt audio system for the rest of the line-up.

Powertrain The new City SUV is available with the brand’s powerful, efficient 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine as standard. The European-developed turbocharged 1.6-litre 16-valve VVT (variable valve timing) engine produces 115 kW (156 bhp) power and 210 Nm torque over a broad rev range between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm.

As standard, this engine is paired with the

six-speed manual transmission in the Active model, accelerating the City SUV from zero to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds. Also with six speeds, the smooth shifting QorosTroniq™ 6DCT transmission is standard on Style, Style Plus and Excite models. With this gearbox, acceleration to 100 km/h is achieved in 10.8 seconds and top speed is 208 km/h.

Fuel economy is amongst the very best in the compact class, achieving 6.8 l/100km with the manual transmission and 6.9 l/100km with the DCT (NEDC cycle).

Vehicle dynamics The vehicle dynamics of the new Qoros 3 City SUV were developed to fully exploit the new car’s higher chassis, wider track and longer wheelbase, while also being tailored to deliver driving characteristics to rival those of compact SUV’s developed by leading European brands.

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NEW QOROS 3 CITY SUV

( Like the Hatch and Sedan, the City SUV’s suspension features MacPherson struts at the front and an OMEGA-shaped twist beam at the rear to provide an ideal balance of responsive handling and a compliant ride. Several chassis modifications ensure that the City SUV has similar ‘DNA’ characteristics to the Hatch in terms of ride, handling and steering, despite its higher centre of gravity.

Stopping power is provided by 305mm ventilated disc brakes at the front and 285mm solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) systems were developed in conjunction with TRW specifically for the Qoros family of vehicles.

Safety The City SUV embodies the same Qoros Crash Management System philosophy as the Sedan and Hatch, each of which carry a maximum five-star ranking from Euro NCAP. ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD (electronic brake distribution) and a driver-set speed limiting device are standard across the range, as are ISOFIX child seat mountings with top tethers on the right and left rear seats.

Additional standard safety equipment on all City SUV models, apart from the entry-level Active, includes: ESC (electronic stability control), ETC (electronic traction control), BA (brake assist), and CBC (cornering brake control), automatic brake disc cleaning, a seat belt reminder for the driver (and front passenger on Excite models).

NEW QOROS 3 CITY SUV SPECIFICATIONS Body and chassis

Five-door, five-seater compact SUV with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Transversely-mounted four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Engine Type / capacity

Power/torque Compression ratio

1.6T - 115 kW Turbocharged DOHC, 16-valve, four-cylinder gasoline, with VVT and multi-point injection / 1598 cc 115 kW (156 bhp) @ 5,500 rpm / 210 Nm @ 1,750 - 5,000 rpm 9.5:1

Transmissions 1.6T Manual 6-sp DCT automatic 6-sp Suspension and damping Front

Rear

Fully independent by MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar OMEGA-shaped twist beam, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers.

Steering Type Gearing Turning circle

Electric power steering, rack and pinion 2.86 turns lock-to-lock 5.7 metres radius / 11.4 metres diameter

Brakes Front Rear Assistance

305 mm ventilated discs 285 mm solid discs Single 10-inch booster

Wheels and tyres

17 inch with 215/60 R17 tyres 18 inch with 215/55 R18 tyres

Dimensions (mm) Overall length Overall width Overall height Wheelbase

4452 1854 (excluding door mirrors) 1504 2694

Weights and capacities 1.6T MT / DCT Minimum (kg) 1390 / 1430 Fuel tank (litres) 55.0 Luggage (VDA) 403 litres (rear seats upright)

1105 litres (rear seats folded, loaded to roof) Performance 1.6T MT / DCT Top speed / km/h 205/208 0-to-100 km/h / sec 10.1/10.8 Economy 1.6T MT / DCT Combined (l / 100 km)

6.8/6.9

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A top fashion photographer and the 2015 ATS Coupe

Cadillac

E R U T U O C

Pictures: © GM Corp. / © Copyright A. Belluso

Acclaimed international photographer Andrea​Belluso showcased a slew of stunning images – featuring the 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe – at Al Serkal Avenue’s Gulf Photo Plus Gallery in Dubai on February 4

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o the delight of art enthusiasts, a photography exhibition featuring the work of renowned fashion photographer Andrea Belluso has been held on February 4 at Al Serkal Avenue’s Gulf Photo Plus Gallery in Dubai. The photographs on show were set to depict the 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe in various beautiful natural sceneries.

Andrea Belluso, an Italian photographer with more than three decades of artistic experience, drew inspiration from the Cadillac ATS’s cutting-edge design and radical shape for the shoot. His artistic oeuvre typically explores the world of fashion.

“It’s not every day that an accomplished international artist such as Andrea Belluso is available in our market to put together such a fantastic body of work” said Nadim Ghrayeb, Regional Brand Manager of Cadillac. “So it was only befitting that the all-new ATS Coupe with its engaging design, performance and technology serve as the creative inspiration to Andrea.”

The all-new 2015 ATS Coupe is a quicker and more personal addition to the award-winning ATS product line. The vehicle model extends Cadillac’s product-driven growth and the brand’s tradition of dynamic luxury Coupes.

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Andrea Belluso is an Italian photographer based in London and in Stockholm where he has his studio. He started working in London in 1983 when he did his first job for Italian CondĂŠ Nast. Since then he has had Paris and Milan as home bases. Feeling at home both in the studio and on location his long list of international clients has made him travel all over the world on commissioned shoots. Andrea also works as film director,

producer and editor with many broadcasted television hours worldwide. Andrea Belluso also holds lectures and seminars across the Globe and he is also known as “the Light Shaper” by the main photographic lighting company in the world Profoto because of his unique expertise in photographic lighting. Apart from his commercial work Andrea also publishes photographic art books and holds photographic art exhibitions.

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Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. Today Cadillac is growing globally, driven by an expanding product portfolio featuring dramatic design and technology. Described as luxurious, having a bold and daring personality, being tough and strong as well as safe and powerful, Cadillac has maintained an iconic presence for over 85 years in the Middle East.

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Jensen returns with limited edition Jensen GT

The rebirth of

a legend

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THE REBIRTH OF A LEGEND

The Jensen Group (www.jensengroup.co.uk) licences, markets and uses the Jensen and Interceptor names for use within the automotive sector as well as other industries.

The Jensen Group successfully established its ownership of the Jensen and Interceptor brands in order to clear up any confusion over the future of the marque going forward.

The Jensen Group is currently engaged in a project to launch the new Interceptor 2 during 2016, which may involve collaboration with an established automotive group.

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lmost 80 years since the Jensen name appeared on cars, the famous marque returns with the opportunity to order the first officially sanctioned model in 13 years.

Marking the rebirth of the brand, the formation of the Jensen Group is the start of the next chapter in the Jensen story, following the collapse of the car manufacturer in 2002.

Spearheaded by industry stalwart Tim Hearley, the return allows enthusiasts to purchase an officially sanctioned car, the Jensen GT. As the man responsible for the return of Jensen, and the force behind defending the Jensen trademark for almost four years, Tim Hearley, executive chairman of The Jensen Group, is delighted with the re-launch of the marque: “This represents the next chapter of Jensen and, as we look to the future, we want Jensen enthusiasts to help us celebrate as we unveil a completely new car and outline our plans for the future.�

The Jensen Group is also currently engaged on a project to launch Interceptor 2 in 2016, which may involve collaboration with an established automotive group. The Jensen GT will fill the gap between the last true Jensen, the Interceptor of 1976, and an allnew, state-of-the-art car due to be revealed in 2016.

This new model, classed as Interceptor 2, will take design cues from the classic Interceptor and will advance the concept of the original grand tourer, to provide a thoroughly modern and exciting vehicle.

Despite several companies claiming to be the spiritual home of Jensen, the Jensen GT is the first new car to legitimately bear a Jensen badge in the more than 13 years, since the demise of the S-V8 in 2001.

Whilst the original Interceptor models continue to be supported in standard and modified forms, Jensen Cars Ltd has commissioned one of the leading designers in the ‘Retro’ field, Jonathan Gould to create a new

model...the Jensen GT.... to bridge the gap between the last 1976 iterations and the forthcoming more radical, state of the art gran turismo slated for 2016.

As this new Jensen is to be hand built in limited numbers, Jensen International Automotive Ltd in Banbury (well known for its highly acclaimed modified R models), is integral in developing and producing the GT. The specification combines new parts as used for the Interceptor R, the Jensen SV8 and other makes, with unique elements blending modern and traditional materials, design & manufacturing techniques. The Jensen GT will be available exclusively through JIA. CGM

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Photo by Degler Studio (www.facebook.com/deglerstudio)

1000

by Piotr Degler

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fter finding and photographing the Mercedes Gullwing in Cuba last summer, I did recently another great find which I was looking for for many years.

I have photographed many italian classic concept cars in the past but knew this one was somewhere missing.

This incredible 1960 Abarth Monoposto Record Car has been hidden in a private garage for many years and it is the first Italian car which broke an absolute world speed record.

This car, the body of which has been designed and built by Pininfarina, is the 1000 Fiat Abarth.

This prototype has broken the following records:

“72 hours” at the average of 186,687 km/h “12 hours” at the average of 203,656 km/h “2000 miles” at the average of 201,115 km/h “24 hours” at the average of 198,795 kmh/h “5000 km” at the average of 199,238 km/h “5000 miles” at the average of 192,878 km/h “48 hours” at the average of 190,264 km/h “10.000 km” at the average of 191,376 km/h

This unique prototype has a mid-rear 4 cylinder engine, 982cc, 105hp at 8000 rpm, 4 speed gearbox, rear wheel.

Lucky enough to enter into the collector’s private garage and photograph this beautiful aerodynamic lines in the dark. Everything is original, the car didn’t race since its glory days, you can even notice the original stickers from the 60’s...

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THE INCREDIBLE ABARTH

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Degler Studio has been created by international awarded automotive photographer Piotr Degler Jablonski. Having captured on camera some of the most emblematic cars and prototypes ever built in history, Piotr DeglerJabloski is today a worldwide renowned photographer.

Degler Studio is an automotive exclusive media based in Italy and Spain and offers to customers (companies, private owners and editorial) worldwide services such as photography, postproduction, film production, concept ideas...

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Elegance in Florida

by Niccolò Gargiulo

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ELEGANCE IN FLORIDA

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T Photo Clay Wieland Photography

he Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance is the fastest growing concours in the United States.

In its ninth year, the three-day event (held on February 20-22) began with a Hangar Party at the Boca Raton airport featuring a chance to experience select gourmet tastings from more than 20 of South Florida’s finest restaurants and a display of exotic cars, motorcycles, boats and private jets. On Saturday night the gala event helped raise more than $1 million for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.

The Concours d’Elegance itself was held on the fairways of the Boca Raton Resort & Club where thousands of classic car enthusiasts were able to experience a show like no other: more than 200 classic vehicles from all over the world were gathered in front of an expert panel of judges. Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Chevrolet are just some of the brands that filled the showfield. Best of Show went to a 1030 Minerva AL owned

by Margie & Joseph Cassini of West Orange, New Jersey.

1941 Chrysler Royale Sedan

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Inside the 1955 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

1964 Chevrolet Cerv 2

1947 Chrysler Town & Country Convertible

1929 Dusemberg J LWB

1955 Ford Thunderbird Convertible

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1935 Pierce-Arrow Brunn Bodied 1245 Convertible Coupe

1930 Minerva AL, winner of ‘Best in Show’

1932 Packard 900 Roadster 1967 Chevrolet Camaro

1956 Ferrari 250 GT

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PIC OF THE MONTH

Bentley GT3-R bring luxury and performance to the ice

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globalmag

RACEGM

# 14 April 2015

Photo Red Bull Content Pool

FERRARI BACK ON TOP

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the BLOODHOUND project

Brazilian STOCK CAR

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( CONTENTS

FRONT PAGE Faster!!!

FORMULA ONE

The world is red!

INDYCAR

Bits and pieces everywhere!

STOCK CAR

Well done Ricardo!

DTM

A more attractive format

RALLY CROSS RX Factor

DRAG

Ron Capps proved it again

INTERVIEW

Scott Speed

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VIDEO

PADDOCK MIX RACE GLOBALMAG is an extra issue of digital monthly magazine CARS GLOBALMAG. Chief Editor: Vittorio Gargiulo All rights reserved. All materials present in this magazine including, but not limited to texts, photographs, illustrations, video clips and other materials are protected by copyrights and/or other intellectual property. The material and content provided in this application is for your personal, non-commercial use only, and you agree not to distribute, copy, extract or commercially exploit such material. You further agree not to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, modify, adapt, translate, prepare derivative works from this magazine.

FAST

The BLOODHOUND Project

FRONT PAGE

The Bloodhound Project is preparing to break the World Land Speed Record by 2016 with a cutting-edge, jet and rocket powered supersonic car capable of achieving the speed of 1,000 mph. Driven by a record-breaking heritage and an adventurer’s determination to “confront and overcome the impossible”, the British team behind the Project is aiming to encourage future generations of scientists and engineers.

Photo by Flock London

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THE BLOODHOUND PROJECT

The world land speed record of 763 mph is held by Thrust SSC, a UK team led

by BLOODHOUND’s Project Director Richard Noble and driven by Andy Green

BLOODHOUND SSC is currently being assembled at the BLOODHOUND Technical Centre in Bristol, UK. It is on schedule for roll out summer 2015 where it will undergo UK runway testing up to 200 mph (321 km/h) at the Aerohub, Newquay. The Team will then deploy to South Africa to begin high speed testing with the target of reaching 800 mph (1,287 km/h). The Team will return to the UK to review the data and return to South Africa in 2016 with the aim of reaching 1,000 mph (1,609 km/h)

THE BLOODHOUND PROJECT

The BLOODHOUND team scoured the globe to find the perfect desert to run the car on, it needed to be at least 12 miles (19km) long, two miles (3km) wide and perfectly flat. The Hakskeen Pan, Northern Cape, South Africa was selected

At full speed BLOODHOUND SSC will cover a mile (1.6km) in 3.6 seconds, that’s 4.5 football pitches laid end to end per second

BLOODHOUND has three power plants, a Rolls-Royce EJ200 jet from a Eurofighter Typhoon, a cluster of Nammo hybrid rockets and a 550 bhp Supercharged V8 Jaguar engine that drives the rocket oxidiser pump.

Between them they generate 135,000 thrust hp, equivalent to 180 F1 cars

THE BLOODHOUND PROJECT

Over 250 global companies, 180 of them SMEs, are involved in the Project, which has become a showcase for science and engineering capability

Over 5,700 UK primary and secondary schools have signed up to use the free BLOODHOUND Education resources in their classroomsÂ

The educational outreach programme also runs in South Africa with more than 600 schools already participating and more than 100 BLOODHOUND Ambassadors signed up to help use the project to inspire young people about studying maths and science. The programme reaches out to schools across the country, but particularly in the Northern Cape Province, home to the track where the BLOODHOUND SSC will run

RGM

FORMULA ONE

Sebastian Vettel first victory with Ferrari

The Ferrari comeback is something special, something that all Formula One fans in the world have to celebrate. Read the exciting Vettel quotes at the end of the race and enjoy these beautiful red shots from Sepang

All pictures Š Ferrari Š FOTO STUDIO COLOMBO

THE WORLD IS RED!

IT’S INCREDIBLE! “Grande gara, bella macchina! (A great race and a beautiful car). Sorry for starting to speak in Italian, but today is such a special day for me. A phenomenal day. How does it feel? It feels incredible. To see the guys when I was on the podium, to look down, it was an incredible atmosphere. I can only recall from the victories Fernando had with Ferrari and recall especially the victories Michael celebrated with the team – I think there were one or two – IT’S INCREDIBLE. To become part of that team is something special. It makes me very happy obviously. Last year was tough. The first win since more than a year’s time now. I definitely missed not just the champagne but the top step in particular.

So great to come back after a tough season last year where I think I just didn’t get on top of the car. This year the balance of the car seems to suit me and has come my way, also I think Kimi’s way more than last year in general. Very pleased. The strategy today was also ace. So big thanks to the guys. They pulled in obviously, which I think we were a bit surprised by, but we saw on Friday that they weren’t too happy on the medium compound and Lewis was struggling in the first stint and I was able to keep up with him, which I enjoyed a lot.

And then I knew I had to deliver, trying to make those tyres last and trying to go as fast as I can. Second stint he was chasing me down, which was tough, so he had a string second stint. In the end I think I was able to rebalance the car a little more and I was able to, yeah, have a solid gap the last couple of laps. But to be honest…

I shouldn’t say it but I don’t know, I was shitting myself the last couple of laps because here and there the thought was co-

THE WORLD IS RED!

ming to my head, I was looking at the top of the chassis and thinking “this is a red, you’re about to win” and then I thought, “OK, stop thinking that, otherwise you’ll miss the next apex or something”. Really, really a great relief I crossed the chequered flag and saw the guys, as I said, on the podium. So a really special day and a big thanks to all the mechanics and engineers and all the team in Maranello. There are a lot of people there and a lot of potential and power going into the project. I think we have done a massive step over the winter and it’s their victory today.”

SCHUMACHER “When I grew up, MICHAEL WAS MY HERO and for all of us – and I speak for all of the kids at the go-kart track at the time in Germany – we were looking up to him and when he turned up every year and to look after us a little bit, it made our lives. So, that’s why I think today… I probably don’t understand yet how special it is. Very, very emotional. To see the guys there, and to realise at the parade lap, I really tried to soak everything in, enjoy the fans here around Malaysia and, yeah, I recognised obviously for the first time, all the Ferrari flags. So really, really happy and just proud. Especially proud to beat these guys because they have been phenomenally strong the last year and a bit, so to be the first one to beat them really fair and square, I think is an incredible achievement, so big thanks to all the guys back in Maranello.”

THE PASSION “I think for all of us we didn’t know, when we started in Melbourne, where we were,

THE WORLD IS RED!

where the journey was going to start but I think the most important thing is that for both Kimi and myself, we had a very good feeling since the first test. We were happy with how the car feels and we were able to build onto that. We had some issues to solve which I think that just in time we got on top of so great job from the guys. So far, reliability has been very strong and I think today the key was to look after our tyres.

That’s, I think, where we were able to close the gap a lot compared to Australia, compared to Mercedes. What it is, I think as I said, first of all, the guys have worked over the winter, tidied up a lot of things. Obviously I wasn’t around last year and I don’t know how last year’s car was but I was told that this year’s car is a lot better. I’m very happy with how the car feels, with the balance. It allows me to play and to work which I think is always crucial as a driver and then I think there’s a fresh wind, there’s a lot of new people. Some people have changed their position and so far I think the atmosphere is great, people are happy just to be there and do their job. THEY’RE VERY PASSIONATE and I think that’s the most important thing.

Everything else, of course, at this stage, is a bit of a surprise for us but of course we take it. The most important thing again, just like after Australia, we need to confirm that in the next races and then gradually try to catch these guys.”

THE MARANELLO’S PEOPLE “Well, I think it would be the team. As soon as the gates opened at Maranello I was amazed by the manpower, amazed by the size of the factory, the amount of people working in the race team and I think it’s a unique constellation on the grid that the

THE WORLD IS RED!

team has, so probably dedicate it to all the teams there, to all the people there. Having been there a couple of times now, many times, and also been in the place where the whole company grabs lunch, to see the amount of people all sharing that passion, I think that since they’ve been waiting for that win for so long, I think it’s really dedicating it to them because THEY’VE DONE A HELL OF A JOB over the winter to get us in that position.”

PIT STOP Kimi Raikkonen: “We had a pretty poor weekend in terms of things going wrong. I had a good speed but in qualify it didn’t go well and then today, after a poor start where I had too much wheelspin right off the line, I found myself fighting with all the other drivers and I had a puncture on the rear left tyre while battling Nasr at the last corner, which means I had to go one full lap before coming back to pits with no tyre. At that point my floor had got a little bit damaged, I had to do a full lap with no tyre and then, even if the safety car helped us, I had to start from way back behind. We did our best and the forth position was the maximum we could achieve. The win of Sebastian is a very good thing for him and for the whole team , knowing how difficult the last year has been; it’s a very good job what the team has done. We knew from winter testing that we have a good car, so it did not come as a total surprise, and probably the track with these high temperatures suited us. I don’t know how it will be in other circuits, but the car has been strong so far, not yet as we want but we have a good package, and we are getting stronger”.

THE WORLD IS RED!

PIT STOP FCA and Ferrari President Sergio Marchionne statement at the end of the Malaysia Grand Prix, Maranello, 29 March: “My heartfelt gratitude to Maurizio Arrivabene and the men and women of the Scuderia. What we have seen today is the result of incredibly hard work in the last few months, work that has been carried out in silence and with humility which are the real sign of a great team. Congratulations to Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen for a fantastic race. I am really happy for all the fans who have been waiting so long for a day like this. Forza Ferrari”.

PIT STOP Maurizio Arrivabene, Ferrari Team Principal: “This is no oneman win: it’s a success for the whole team, which has been working impeccably at all levels. Seb was just unbelievable today, and Kimi was able to put on a fantastic charge from the back. The whole team has showed a great deal of discipline, just like a Swiss watchor should I say, an Italian one! Today, the whole team gave me great emotions and I wish to thank everybody, including the women and men back at the Maranello factory, for putting on an incredible effort over the last months, burning the midnight oil. Now we’ve got to be realistic, keep our feet on the ground and our concentration at a high level, because Mercedes is still a formidable contender. After the race our President Mr. Marchionne congratulated the whole team. He’s really one of us, he likes to stay away from the spotlight but still gives us a powerful contribution. And he’s a real Ferrari fan!”.

THE WORLD IS RED!

PIT STOP Toto Wolff, Mercedes AMG Formula One Team Principal: “Our first feeling today is obviously one of disappointment. We were beaten fair and square

by Ferrari and Sebastian, who did a fantastic job, and I’m not sure we could have matched their long run pace at any point. They took a well-deserved win. We saw on Friday that Kimi was really strong in these hot conditions, with the track over 60 degrees, and that was confirmed in the race. Of course, it’s easy to be clever after the race looking at things we could have done better and there are certainly plenty of points that could have been optimised.

But we take these decisions together as a team and this is the moment to stay calm, do our analysis and learn what we can improve for next time. It was a complicated race for the team to read – and for the drivers, too, from the cockpit. We had some interesting radio discussions and both guys did a great job to deliver the double podium at the finish. But I think we can also take a step back and look at the sport today. Always it seems that when people are making the most noise about changing the rules, Formula One delivers. It was the case in Bahrain last year and we saw it again today. It wasn’t a perfect day for Mercedes but it was a good one for Formula One.”

THE WORLD IS RED!

MALAYSIAN GRAND PRIX FINAL RESULT 1 - Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari SF15-T) - 56 giri in 1.41’05”793 2 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W06) - 8”569 3 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W06) - 12”310 4 - Kimi Raikkonen (Ferrari SF15-T) - 53”822 5 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW37-Mercedes) - 1’10”409 6 - Felipe Massa (Williams FW37-Mercedes) - 1’13”586 7 - Max Verstappen (Toro Rosso STR10-Renault) - 1’39”085 8 - Carlos Sainz (Toro Rosso STR10-Renault) - 1 lap 9 - Daniil Kvyat (Red Bull RB11-Renault) - 1 lap 10 - Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull RB11-Renault) - 1 lap 11 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E23-Mercedes) - 1 lap 12 - Felipe Nasr (Sauber C34-Ferrari) - 1 lap 13 - Sergio Perez (Force India VJM08-Mercedes) - 1 lap 14 - Nico Hulkenberg (Force India VJM08-Mercedes) - 1 lap 15 - Roberto Merhi (Manor-Ferrari) - 3 lap DNF

Pastor Maldonado (Lotus E23-Mercedes) Jenson Button (Mc Laren-Honda) Fernando Alonso (Mc Laren-Honda) Marcus Ericsson ((Sauber C34-Ferrari)

DNS Will Stevens (Manor-Ferrari)

FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 15/03 Grand Prix of Australia 29/03 Grand Prix of Malaysia 12/04 Grand Prix of China 19/04 Grand Prix of Bahrain 10/05 Grand Prix of Spain 24/05 Grand Prix of Monaco 07/06 Grand Prix of Canada 21/06 Grand Prix of Austria 05/07 Grand Prix of Great Britain 26/07 Grand Prix of Hungary 23/08 Grand Prix of Belgium 06/09 Grand Prix of Italy 20/09 Grand Prix of Singapore 27/09 Grand Prix of Japan 11/10 Grand Prix of Russia (Sochi) 25/10 Grand Prix of USA (Austin) 01/11 Grand Prix of Mexico 15/11 Grand Prix of Brazil 29/11 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi

RGM

INDY CAR

BITS & PIECES

everywhere!

by Niccolo’ Gargiulo

The first INDYCAR round in St. Petersburg

Pictures courtesy of INDYCAR media service Contact between Will Power and Juan Pablo Montoya in the final laps at St. Petersburg

Juan Pablo Montoya held off Team Penske teammate and reigning Verizon IndyCar Series champion Will Power over the final 27 laps to win the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg by 0.9930 of a second

BITS & PIECES EVERYWHERE!

Juan Pablo Montoya

Juan Pablo Montoya took the first Indycar race of the season on the streets of St. Petersburg in Florida. He bested reigning champion and teammate Will Power after an incredibly hard fought race during a weekend where Penske drivers dominated the field.

After conquering the first four spots on the grid the Penske guys led almost the entire race. Will power asserted his dominance of the track after breaking its record during Saturday’s qualify. He led until the last pit-stop when Montoya was able to overtake him in the pit-lane.

A late contact between the two forced Power to slow down and to settle in second place. Third place went to Tony Kanaan, able to squeeze between the other two Penske drivers Helio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud.

The main theme of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg was the debut of the new Indycar aerokits ‌ and no doubt everybody noticed them!

The complicated new design of the front and back wings of the cars meant additional downforce, but it also meant bits and pieces everywhere after contacts.

And there was plenty of damage during the 110 laps race. Five full course cautions (practically all of them for debris on

BITS & PIECES EVERYWHERE!

the track) led many to think that it will be a difficult season for the marshals, that will have to clean up the track frequently, particularly from pieces coming from the Honda aerokit (the front wings of the Honda cars have much more pieces that can fly around after a contact).

Discussions are in place to try and find a solution to this problem and to decide whether a full course caution is always needed in case of debris on the racetrack.

PIT STOP Juan Pablo Montoya: “It’s exciting. Last year was very disappointing. It was tough not only here but generally on the street courses. I’m a guy that always excelled at street courses everywhere I raced. To come here and have a year with really bad street course racing, it was pretty tough. I was never happy with the car. With my engineers, we decided to go in a completely different way the than the other guys. It paid off.”

BITS & PIECES EVERYWHERE!

Sebastien Bourdais

Luca Filippi

Simon Pagenaud

PIT STOP Roger Penske (Team Penske, Owner): “Well, I will tell you it was a fight between our two guys in front there. It was just an amazing weekend.

The guys worked hard in the offseason on the aero kits and thanks for Chevrolet and Verizon for the support. But to come back this year with the fast times in qualifying and win this race 1-2, and four drivers in the top six - wow, what a day.�

BITS & PIECES EVERYWHERE!

Scott Dixon

PIT STOP Will Power: “If I hadn’t damaged my wing, maybe I would have had another shot. Montoya was very strong on the front straight and my exits weren’t very good. I thought maybe I would catch him off-guard there. You don’t expect someone to pass there, so, yeah, I gave it a shot. I was surprised at how aggressively he turned, but he wanted to win the race and so did I.”

BITS & PIECES EVERYWHERE!

Marco Andretti

PIT STOP Numbers to note: 13 - Career Indy car victories by Juan Pablo Montoya, tying him with Tom Sneva for 32nd all-time...Positions improved by Jack Hawksworth (21st to eighth), most of any driver in the race.

21.7 - Percentage of races that Juan Pablo Montoya has won in his Indy car career (13 for 60).

66 - Races led by Will Power since the beginning of 2010, a span of 87 races.

119 - Career top-five finishes for Tony Kanaan (third place in race) and Helio Castroneves (fourth place) after their finishes at St. Pete. The pair is tied with Scott Dixon, Bobby Rahal and Dario Franchitti for sixth all-time.

175 - Indy car races won by cars owned by Roger Penske. Team Penske has 97 oval wins and 78 road/street course wins.

219 - Number of total on-track passes in the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Rookie Stefano Coletti had 18, most of any driver.

234 - Consecutive starts by Tony Kanaan, extending his all-time record.

BITS & PIECES EVERYWHERE!

FIRESTONE GRAND PRIX OF ST. PETERSBURG STANDINGS 1 - Juan Pablo Montoya (Chevrolet) – Penske - 110 laps 2 - Will Power (Chevrolet) – Penske - 0”9930 3 - Tony Kanaan (Chevrolet) – Ganassi - 11”1685 4 - Helio Castroneves (Chevrolet) – Penske - 11”4376 5 - Simon Pagenaud (Chevrolet) – Penske - 12”3909 6 - Sebastien Bourdais (Chevrolet) – KV - 16”4923 7 - Ryan Hunter-Reay (Honda) – Andretti - 27”7102 8 - Jack Hawksworth (Honda) – Foyt - 34”9206 9 - Luca Filippi (Chevrolet) – CFH - 38”1564 10 - Marco Andretti (Honda) – Andretti - 38”6910

RGM

STOCK CAR

The Brazilian season begins with a super-event

WELL DONE

RICARDO!

With a lot of famous international drivers as “special guests” together with the usual actors of the Brazilian Stock Car championship, the first 2015 round has been held on March 22 in the Goiania circuit.

At the end of a super thrilling race the victory went to the Ricardo Maurício/Nestor Girolami couple, followed by Marcos Gomes/Mark Winterbottom and Allam Khodair/Antonio Felix da Costa to complete the podium rostrum.

The next round (second of twelve this season) is scheduled for Sunday 5 April at the Ribeirao Preto circuit

Photo Bruno Terena/Red Bull Content Pool

WELL DONE RICARDO!

Antonio Felix da Costa followed by Caca Bueno

Daniel Serra performs during 2015 Round 1 in Goiania (March 22)

WELL DONE RICARDO!

Felipe Fraga / Alvaro Parente

Allan Khodair and Antonio Felix da Costa celebrate their third place

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Ricardo Mauricio/Nestor Girolami - Eurofarma RC 52min32s719 Marcos Gomes/Mark Winterbottom - Voxx Racing Team - +6s892§ Allam Khodair/Antonio Felix da Costa - Full Time Competições - +18s475 Cacá Bueno/Pechito Lopez - Red Bull Racing - +18s742 Thiago Camilo/Lucas Di Grassi - Ipiranga-RCM - +19s102 Max Wilson/Vitor Meira - Eurofarma RC - + 19s766 Felipe Fraga/Alvaro Parente - Voxx Racing Team - +19s880 Valdeno Brito/Laurens Vanthoor - Shell Racing - + 25s577 Julio Campos/Nicholas Prost - Prati-donaduzzi - +46s930 Sergio Jimenez/Fabio Carbone - C2 Team - + 48s337 Galid Osman/Beto Monteiro - Ipiranga-RCM - + 50s193 Daniel Serra/Chico Serra - Red Bull Racing - + 52s997 Rafa Matos/David Muffato - Schin Racing Team - + 59s049 Rubens Barrichello/Ingo Hoffman- Full Time Competições - + 1min02s395 Lucas Foresti/Luiz Razia - AMG Motorsport - +1min04s663 Luciano Burti/Jaime Algersuari - RZ Motorsport - + 1min05s797 Vitor Genz/Matheus Stumpf - Boettger Competições - +1min06s869 Alceu Feldmann/Ezequiel Raul Bosio - Boettger Competições - +1min11s382 Bia Figueiredo/Matias Milla - União Química Racing - + 1min16s879 Gabriel Casagrande/Enrique Bernoldi - C2 Team - + 1min18s789 Ricardo Zonta/Jacques Villeneuve - Shell Racing - + 1min19s682 Raphael Abbate/Nicolas Costa - Hot Car Competições - + 1min19s706 Felipe Lapenna/Vitantonio Liuzzi - Schin Racing Team - +1min10s047 Fabio Fogaça/Leandro Totti - Hot Car Competições - + 1 lap Antonio Pizzonia/Bruno Senna - Prati-donaduzzi - + 1 lap Tuka Rocha/Chris Van Der Drift Peugeot - + 2 laps Rafael Suzuki/Antonio Perez - RZ Motorsport - + 4 laps Átila Abreu/Nelson Piquet Jr - AMG Motorsport - + 8 laps Popó Bueno/Guilherme Salas - Cavaleiro Racing Sports - + 11 laps

RGM

DTM

New race formats with two championship rounds per weekend

A MORE ATTRACTIVE FORMAT

A MORE ATTRACTIVE FORMAT In the 2015 season, DTM will provide the spectators a new race format with two races of equal value per weekend, thus becoming even more attractive for both the crowds on site and the TV audience.

All the race meetings will feature a championship round on Saturday and a second on Sunday, with full championship points being awarded for both races. On both days, the drivers will have to contest a 20-minute qualifying session that will be crucial for the grid positions for the following race.

THE 2015 DTM CALENDAR: 30th April to 03rd May 29th to 31st May 26th to 28th June 10th to 12th July 31st July to 02nd August 28th 30th August 11th to 13th September 25th 27th September 16th to 18th October

Hockenheimring Lausitzring Norisring Zandvoort / NED Red-Bull-Ring / AUT Moscow / RUS Oschersleben NĂźrburgring Hockenheimring

Nonetheless, there are differences between the Saturday and the Sunday races: the duration and the number of pit stops. On Saturday, the race will be over after 40 minutes plus a full lap, with tyre changes not being obligatory. This means that a driver may cover the full race distance on one set of tyres – but doing so will represent a special challenge. Meanwhile, the race duration

on Sunday amounts to 60 minutes plus a full lap and a stop for a tyre change is mandatory for every driver. The new format will make its debut in the DTM season kickoff, from 30th April to 03rd May at Hockenheim.

Hans Werner Aufrecht, Chairman of DTM rights holder and promoter ITR e.V., stresses: “With two championship rounds per weekend we provide the spectators twice as much of the things that count: more door-to-door battles, more thrilling decisions, and more fascinating motor racing. And we are convinced that the differing race formats will make for entertaining and thrilling races.”

Mr. Gass, as Head of DTM at Audi Sport, are you happy with the new format?

“We manufacturers extensively discussed the new format with the ITR as the marketer of the series and the German Motorsport Association (DMSB) for a long time. There were numerous constructive ideas and proposals. I think we came up with a good approach. The DTM fans can look forward to a thrilling season and to DTM weekends with high entertainment value. One thing happens right after the other and our teams still have a lot of work to do especially after the first race on Saturday.”

You have to explain this to us...

“We are driving two races per weekend this year – one on Satur-

day and one on Sunday. After the first race, there is not much time to prepare the cars for the next day – especially if there are any accidents during the race. This will be a great logistical challenge. We’ll have to make even better use of every minute.”

The first race on the DTM weekends lasts 40 minutes without a pit stop and the second one for 60 minutes with a pit stop. What does that mean?

“For one, the tires have to last for 40 minutes in the first race – that’s basically not a problem but may well pose a minor challenge on some of the race tracks. In addition, qualifying and the grid position are particularly important in the first race because without a pit stop the drivers can only overtake on track. That’s why they can activate the DRS, in other words the adjustable wing flap, three times per lap this year. This is intended to result in as many overtaking maneuvers as possible – of course during the second race on Sunday as well.”

The qualifying format has been changed too: Q1, Q2, Q3 or even Q4 are DTM history...

“The motto is: ‘Keep it simple.’

There’s only a 20-minute qualifying session now per race – the fastest driver is in front. With 24 cars now and such a short time, conflicts are preprogrammed. Going out on track and not getting into traffic will be crucial. While in

A MORE ATTRACTIVE FORMAT the past the drivers were able to get into their rhythm in Q1 everybody now has to immediately deliver their full performance.

So the fans can look forward to very intensive 20 minutes during which almost all of the 24 cars will be out on track. I’m already curious to see if anyone will be bold enough to go out only once in order to save a set of tires for the race; the grid position is too important for that. It’ll be thrilling for the fans.”

What does the increase from ten to 18 races mean?

“That one or two races without points do not automatically mean that there’s no longer a chance of winning the championship. I’m assuming that we’re going to see more drivers in the battle for the title for a longer time in the future. I hope that we’re going to profit from that at Audi. After all, we have a particularly homogeneous driver squad that we clinched the manufacturer’s tit-

le with last year. We’re the only brand that doesn’t have a new driver in its line-up. I see that as an advantage for Audi.”

The season will be kicked of on the first weekend in May, at the Hockenheimring. Following the race

meeting at the Lausitzring in late May, the Norisring race weekend (26th to 28th June) traditionally represents the season highlight.

Afterwards, the calendar features the three abroad meetings at Zandvoort (NED), Spielberg (AUT) and Moscow (RUS) that proved to be extremely popular in the past years. The races at Oschersleben and the Nürburgring are scheduled for September and from 18th to 20th October, Hockenheim traditionally stages the season finale.

A MORE ATTRACTIVE FORMAT

PIT STOP Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport: “The new DTM season promises to be extremely exciting. While having two races per weekend means a fresh challenge for all drivers and teams, it will also be a great experience for the fans. 100% more racing gets the thumbs-up and shows that we listen to our fans.”

A MORE ATTRACTIVE FORMAT

PIT STOP THE NUMBERS OF THE 2015 DTM DRIVERS 1 - Marco Wittmann - BMW M4 DTM 2 - Gary Paffett - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 3 - Paul Di Resta - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 5 - Mattias Ekström - Audi RS 5 DTM 6 - Robert Wickens - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 7 - Bruno Spengler - BMW M4 DTM 8 - Christian Vietoris - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 10 - Timo Scheider - Audi RS 5 DTM 12 Daniel Juncadella - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 13 - António Félix da Costa BMW M4 DTM 16 - Timo Glock - BMW M4 DTM 17 - Miguel Molina - Audi RS 5 DTM 18 - Augusto Farfus - BMW M4 DTM 22 - Lucas Auer Mercedes - AMG C63 DTM 27 - Adrien Tambay - Audi RS 5 DTM 31 - Tom Blomqvist - BMW M4 DTM 36 - Maxime Martin - BMW M4 DTM 48 - Edoardo Mortara - Audi RS 5 DTM 51 - Nico Müller Audi - RS 5 DTM 53 - Jamie Green Audi - RS 5 DTM 77 - Martin Tomczyk - BMW M4 DTM 84 - Maximilian Götz - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 94 - Pascal Wehrlein - Mercedes-AMG C63 DTM 99 - Mike Rockenfeller - Audi RS 5 DTM

RGM

RALLY CROSS

RX RX talent search launched in the UK

FACTOR

FirstCorner – the company behind RX Lites – has helped IMG, the organisers of the FIA World Rallycross Championship, launch a UK-wide talent search. The initiative is also being held in conjunction with the UK’s official governing body, The Motor Sports Association (MSA), and aims to find future rallycross stars.

RX FACTOR

torsport discipline to achieve FIA World Championship status.

Further support for the initiative has come from Lydden Hill where the British RX round is staged,

The RX Talent Search will allow 12 selected finalists the opportunity to prove themselves behind the wheel of an RX Lites car. The winner will be awarded with a fully paid entry into the RX Lites Cup round staged at the former F1 venue, Intercity Istanbul Park from 3-4 October.

The programme aims to provide potential competitors with a firsthand insight into the latest mo-

RX Lites are identical 310bhp, mid-engined, four-wheel drive cars designed by Olsbergs MSE in cooperation with Avitas Motorsport and produced in Turkey. Featuring strictly controlled spec vehicles, the series is designed to provide an affordable platform to showcase the talent of emerging young drivers.

Any MSA competition licence-holder aged between 18 (born after 1 January 1985) and 30 (born before 31 December 1997) interested in entering the RX Talent Search can put themselves forward for consideration by completing a simple form on the MSA’s official website.

From these applicants – who can come from a racing, rallying or, of course, rallycross background – a shortlist of between ten and 12 people will be selected.

As a curtain raiser to the FIA Motorsport News World RX of Great Britain taking place at Lydden Hill (22-24 May), the chosen finalists will be invited to a special evaluation event at the Kent circuit on Thursday 21 May, with the most impressive performer winning the coveted prize drive in Turkey.

Olsbergs MSE will be providing two RX Lites cars and the judging panel will include: Robert Reid, MSA Performance Director; Martin Anayi, World RX Managing Director for IMG Motorsport; Andreas Eriksson, Team Principal of Olsbergs MSE and Andrew Jordan, the 2014 British Touring Car Champion who secured a podium finish in last year’s World RX of Great Britain as a wildcard entry.

Martin Anayi, World RX Managing Director at IMG, commented: “An RX Talent search is something that

has been on our radar for some time and thanks to the FirstCorner, OMSE and Lydden Hill, we’re now able to get this project off the ground in the UK. We believe that this is something we can roll out to other markets in the coming years as we continue to position rallycross as an attractive and affordable option for young drivers who are looking at a future career in motorsport.

The FIA World Rallycross Championship offers incredible return on investment and we pride ourselves on having an extremely diverse range of drivers – we’ve had champion drivers competing from all motorsport disciplines including F1, rally, TouringCar and drift in our Championship. The RX Lites Cup currently runs at seven rounds in support of the World Championship and is the perfect stepping stone for young drivers to hone their rallycross skills before looking at the other FIA categories such as TouringCar, Super1600 and eventually the headline Supercar category.”

RGM

DRAG

2015 Mopar Dodge Charger R/T Funny Car body is three-for-three thi

Ron Capps proved it again Ron Capps defeats John Hale in Mopar vs.

Mopar Funny Car final at 46th Annual NHRA Gatornationals. This victory is the third Gatornationals crown for Capps and 43rd of his career, tying him for second all-time in Funny Car. Including Matt Hagan’s victories at the NHRA Pomona and Phoenix events, the new 2015 Mopar Dodge Charger R/T is three-for-three in competition this season

is season

DRAG Ron Capps raced the new Dodge Charger body to its third 2015 consecutive victory during eliminations on Sunday at the 46th Annual NHRA Gatornationals, marking the Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) driver’s third career win at Gainesville Raceway. Mopar also scored in the Sportsman ranks, with Kevin Helms seizing the overall Stock Eliminator Wally in his 426 Race HEMI Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Pak. “All of us at Mopar are very proud to see the new 2015 Mopar Dodge Charger R/T Funny Car in the winner’s circle for a third consecutive event with this big win by Ron Capps at the Gatornationals,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO – Mopar Brand Service, Parts and Customer Care. “The new Mopar-powered Funny Car package looks strong this year, and we look forward to seeing the Don Schumacher Racing drivers contend for more wins and another championship this season.”

In his 86th career Funny Car final round appearance, Capps’ 4.115/311.05 beat Hale’s 4.208/289.32 to the stripe earning him a 43rd Funny Car victory to tie him for second on the all-time list with Tony Pedregon.

“The Dodge people worked real hard on this new car and while I was happy for my teammate Matt Hagan when he won at Pomona and Phoenix, I had wanted to get them the first win with the new body,”

PIT STOP

Mopar fans will see another Dodge Dart hit the drag track this season in the National Hot Rod Association’s Pro Stock class as driver Ritchie Stevens prepares to take the wheel for at least ten events as a teammate to 2012 Pro Stock NHRA World Champion, Allen Johnson. The New Orleans native will field a Dodge Dart chassis built by Jerry Haas and a HEMI engine tuned by Roy Johnson of Johnson & Johnson Racing starting this April at the NHRA SpringNationals in Houston, Texas.

DRAG

Matt Hagan aboard the brand new 2015 Mopar Express Lane Dodge Charger RT

PIT STOP Ron Capps jokingly added that the only negative thing he could say about the improved visibility on his new Mopar was that for the first time he could look out the side window and see how exactly how tight a race it was while running 320 mph: “Against Wilkerson I looked over and I actually got to see how very close it really was. It’s really helped with everything including reaction time.”

DRAG Capps said. “They really did their homework. Don Schumacher and Dodge really worked hard together as a team to get back to the top.

We won a lot of races with the old Charger but this new one is like night and day. When I came to work for Don in 2005 we had the Dodge Stratus and then the Charger and it was so hard to see out of these bodies but you never wanted to complain because it’s a Funny Car and they are supposed to be the hardest things in the world to drive.”

Allen Johnson, the 2012 NHRA Pro Stock World Champion, is in his 20th season behind the wheel of a Mopar-powered car

No. 6 qualifier and defending NHRA Funny Car champ Matt Hagan was perfect in 2015, up until the first round at Gainesville. A tick quicker off the starting line with a .063 reaction time to DeJoria’s .070, the Mopar Express Lane Dodge Charger R/T DSR driver smoked the tires not long after launch, slowing to a 5.312/241.54 as DeJo-

ria motored for the win.

“It’s just one of those deals,” said Hagan, winner at the first two events. “We just kind of missed it out there and maybe were trying a little too hard, but when you’re racing someone like Alexis DeJoria you know they’re going to go up there and give it all they’ve got. We’ll rebound and show up at Charlotte and be ready.”

In the Sportsman ranks Kevin Helms clinched the overall Stock Eliminator victory in his 426 Race HEMI Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Pak. Helms qualified 12th with a 9.027 ET at 1.123 under index and defeated the ’14 Camaro of Paul Mercure, the ’15 Camaro of Daren Poole-Adam, Tommy Turner, Jimmy Hidalgo Jr. and Jimmy Hidalgo to set up a final round match against Jeff Adkinson. Helms took out the ’69 Camaro with a 8.923/149.50 to Adkinson’s 10.427/126.32.

“This was a really good win,” Helms said. “It’s been four years since my last one and my 22nd career win, and I don’t need any more droughts like that. The Mopar Dodge Challenger was awesome and really easy to drive. We even did a wheelie for fans and ran the number dead on in the final, and that’s all I can ask for. It was an emotional win as my brother won the Gatornationals in 2009 and we lost him a year and a half ago, so this was a big deal for all of us.”

PIT STOP Mopar will be rewarding visitors to their display at National Hot Rod Association Drag Racing series events this season with a commemorative poster that highlights many of the brand’s achievements over more than six decades.

RGM

INTER VIEW

Scott Speed made an astonishing debut in Formula E

Quickly up to Speed

QUICKLY UP TO SPEED

It was almost the perfect finish to the first ever Formula E race in America. The crowd turned out in numbers on the streets of downtown Miami (Saturday, March 14) to witness the spectacle of fully-electric racing.

And they almost got the result they craved as Scott Speed came tantalisingly close to hearing the Star-Spangled Banner on the top step of the podium. The charging Andretti driver chased eventual race winner Nicolas Prost to the chequered flag and finished under half-a-second adrift of a dream debut on home soil. Speed wasn’t a complete stranger to Formula E having tested the car at Donington Park during pre-season testing last summer. But being behind the wheel tackling the bumps and walls of the city streets was an entirely different prospect to the vast runoff and billiard table-smooth surface of the pre-season test track.

PIT STOP Formula E is the new FIA single-seater championship and the world’s first fully-electric racing series. Beginning in September 2014 through to June 2015, the championship is now competing over 11 rounds in 10 of the world’s leading cities including London, Beijing, Moscow and Miami. For the inaugural season, 10 teams, each with two drivers, will go head-to-head creating a unique and exciting racing series designed to appeal to a new generation of motorsport fans. It represents a vision for the future of the motor industry over the coming decades, serving as a framework for R&D around the electric vehicle, accelerating general interest in these cars and promoting sustainability.

“The car itself has improved a bunch since I last drove it,” he said. “The team has done a great job with the car. In general running the car at a street track with walls so close definitely increases how fast everything feels, that’s for sure. Obviously when you’re racing rather than testing there is loads of strategy involved much more like a chess match, which I enjoyed very much.”

Prior to the event Speed hadn’t raced in an open-wheel category in earnest since driving for Toro Rosso in Formula 1 nearly a decade ago. Since then he has competed in NASCAR and Rallycross but clearly relished the single-seater atmosphere and environment.

“It’s very nostalgic and there were lots of feelings like taking the car to the pre-grid and getting out of the car and having a towel and water, speaking to the engineers,” he admitted. “Also the big crowds and the Sir Richard Branson’s of the world walking around, it’s very open-wheel and I haven’t felt that for a long time. It was cool to go through the whole experience again.

QUICKLY UP TO SPEED

PIT STOP Nico Prost held off a late charge from Scott Speed to take victory in the Miami ePrix. It meant e.dams-Renault became the first team to score a second win, but five races in and we’re still waiting for a driver to do the same.

I love where Formula E is going and they have the right idea with things like social media, which is an extremely important aspect.

It’s something that I think open-wheel racing is missing out on. The fact that Formula E is putting so much emphasis on it is very smart and the correct approach.”

circuit. We got held up on both my flying laps quite a bit so instead of a top-three starting sport we were down in 10th. The race went as well as it could have but we also had a temperature issue with the second car. If we didn’t have that issue we could have had a better run at Prost towards the end.”

Having had no experience of driving the car on a street track, the last thing Speed needed was for free practice to be reduced to just a single 30-minute session as last-minute construction work delayed proceedings in Miami. This was followed by a qualifying session where he failed to get a clear lap. This meant he started 10th, eight places behind eventual winner Prost.

“Qualifying really killed our chances, which is always a possibility when racing on a street

Coming in as a late replacement for fellow countryman Marco Andretti, Speed didn’t know what to expect on his first appearance but hopes he will be able to build on the result in Long Beach.

“I had no expectation coming into it as it’s been so long since I’ve been in an openwheel car. It is pretty amazing to me that it’s literally like riding a bike or putting on an old pair of shoes because everything just switched back into that mindset.”

RGM

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PADDOCK MIX Racing Studios: Drivers’ Lab & Racing Team

A completely new reality with a strong innovative character is entering today in the world of motorsport. Racing Studios, project born from an idea of Thomas Biagi, goes beyond the concept of racing team and, for the first time ever, combines in a unique structure an advanced drivers’ lab, a racing team and an incentive organization.

The drivers’ lab, whose headquarters are located in San Marino, is one of the feathers in the cap of Racing Studios: physical and psychological training is taken care of by high level professionals, while the gym has been specifically designed to suit drivers’ needs and provided with high tech equipment. The brand new simulator, on which all human and budget resources, have focused on, is the high-tech beating heart of the lab that allows to combine psycho-physical training with virtual track experience under the guidance of a team of experts including Biagi and some engineers.

The racing team will be competing in GT and endurance series with two McLaren MP4-12C GT3. The 2015 sporting programme will include the participation to the Italian GT Championship and to some International classic events like the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. Thomas Biagi will have the double commitment of driver and team principal. He will collaborate with “3 Engineering” of Alan Gomboso for this new adventure,

with the support of Luca Canni Ferrari, a highly experienced figure in top class motorsport. Luca Del Grosso will take on the role of track engineer.

The complete lineup of the two cars will be announced shortly.

Thomas Biagi (Racing Studios, Team Principal): “Last December I started thinking about creating something innovative in motorsport, a structure that could meet 100% of the needs of a driver, which I know from my experience. My staff and myself gradually defined what is now Racing Studios, a complete structure that allows drivers to train in a specific way, to prepare races at the simulator, to get on track at the wheel of a McLaren GT3 and to organize an incentive event for all the partners. It has been a winter of hard work but we are really proud on having created something that nobody has ever done before. A special thanks goes to my friend Ferdinando Geri for his advice and for following me step by step in this adventure with his strong entrepreneurship experience”.

Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

PADDOCK MIX

Chevrolet takes Sebring 50 years later!

Perfect weather in Sebring (Florida) set the stage for a thrilling Tudor United Sportscar Championship 12 Hours race.

Chevrolet won overall for the first time in 50 years – since a Chevy-powered Chaparral won in 1965. The Action Express Racing prototype, driven by Joao Barbosa, Christian Fittipaldi and Sebastien Bourdais, was with no doubt the fastest car on track. After overtaking the Ganassi Ford Riley prototype shared by Scott Dixon, Joey Hand and Scott Pruett, Sebastien Bourdais cruised through the dark hours of the evening to take the checkered flag at 10.40 pm.

The Ganassi Ford registered mechanical problems towards the end of the race (finishing fourth), thus permitting an all-Chevrolet podium.

Second place went to Jordan and Ricky Taylor

with Max Angelelli who overcame braking issues and drove towards an impressive comeback, while third place went to Richard Westbrook, Mike Rockenfeller and Michael Valiante.

Finishing first in the Prototype Challenge class, and sixth overall, was the PR1/Mathiasen Motorsports car driven by Mike Guasch, Andrew Palmer and Tom Kimber-Smith.

At the checkered flag, the Chevrolet Corvette C7.R of Jan Magnussen, Antonio Garcia and Ryan Briscoe was on top of the GTLM class. A close second was the No. 62 Risi Ferrari 458 Italia. In third was the No. 17 Team Falken Tire Porsche 911 RSR. GTD class went to the Team Seattle/Alex Job Racing Porsche 911 GT America, driven by Ian James, Mario Farnbacher and Alex Riberas.

Barbosa/Fittipaldi/Bourdais (Chevrolet DP) Photo: Rolex / Stephan Cooper

PADDOCK MIX Logano wins again Logano led 176 of the 200 laps, besting Matt Kenseth and Kevin Harvick for the win, his second career XFINITY series triumph at Phoenix International Raceway a couple of weeks ago.

“I was able to take off faster on restarts and get a nice lead and then Matt’s (Kenseth) car was looser than mine so that is why I was able to get a lead,” Logano noted post-race. “Once we started running a few laps I would get tight and he would start catching up to me because his balance was a little more free. I kept hoping for lap traffic because I was better in traffic and that is where I made up time.”

Logano led pretty much wire to wire after capturing the Coors Light Pole Award earlier in the day Saturday, only relinquishing the lead for 24 laps to Kenseth (14), Austin Dillion (4) and Brennan Poole (6). The win marked the first for the 22 team this season and the first for Greg Erwin as crew chief of the squad.

“I don’t know if it was handling perfectly,” Erwin said. “We came here working a lot off of everything that this team has been able to generate over the last couple of years and I feel like we have been knocking on the door the first couple of races and it was just a matter of time until we stepped through.”

Honda to Race New Civic Type R for BTCC

Honda has announced it is to race the new Civic Type R in the 2015 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship season. Scheduled to be officially unveiled at the BTCC media day at Donington on Tuesday 24 March, the new car has been designed and built from the ground up in the Team Dynamics workshops in Pershore, Worcestershire.

Working in close conjunction with Honda UK manufacturing in Swindon, Honda Yuasa Racing started designing the car last September with the build starting in November.

Based on the production version of the new Civic Type R which is due to hit showrooms in July, the race version will develop 350bhp with 400Nm of torque. By building on the existing road car, which was sourced direct from the Honda UK factory in Swindon, the team has produced a car which has increased down force compared to last year’s Tourer, less drag and a more effective air flow management.

The team has high hopes for 2015 as Barry Plowman, Technical Director at Honda Yuasa Racing, explains: “We cannot wait for the new season to start. Our car for 2015 is going to win races.

The shape of the new road going Civic Type R has allowed the team to build on the design and take it forward to be a championship winning car.

2015 is widely being billed as the year Honda is back and we are continuing that in to BTCC. We’ve worked hard over the winter to ensure we have a winning car for 2015.”

The announcement comes as the team recently confirmed an unchanged driver line-up of Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal for the sixth consecutive season.

“This is a car that not just us, but the entire automotive industry has been waiting for,” added Matt Neal. “We are as excited as anybody to start running the Civic Type R, which is a massive step forward from last year’s Tourer – from the engine to the handling and aerodynamics.”

PADDOCK MIX

NORRA finalizes category and rules for Genrral Tire Mexican 1000

With just over a few weeks of preparation time remaining before racers and adventure enthusiasts converge in downtown Ensenada, Baja, Mexico for the 6th Annual NORRA General Tire Mexican 1000, event organizers have announced a updated set of regulations for its various “Vintage” and “Evolution” four-wheel categories. The National Off Road Racing Association (NORRA) today also refined two additional classes for this year’s “Happiest Race on Earth.”

A primary announcement affecting a large amount of NORRA categories involves various tire diameters. After careful consideration and indepth discussions with many of its veteran competitors, NORRA has raised the maximum tire diameter from 35” to 37” for all of its highly popular “Vintage” classes. In addition, NORRA will return to open regulations concerning maximum tire diameters for most of the Mexican 1000’s “Evolution” categories.

New for 2015 is the addition of NORRA’s “Historic Trophy” class. Designed to better accommodate high-performance unlimited vehicles at least 20 years old, the Historic Trophy category will be run in conjunction with today’s modern Evolution categories. NORRA’s updates also further refine a UTV class expected to grow in popularity over the coming years.

NORRA promotes and organizes the annual General Tire NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally, a vintage-flavored on and off-road stage rally that runs the length of the Baja peninsula. Scheduled to take place on April 25-29, for 2015 competitors will enjoy a fun-filled journey from Ensenada, Baja Mexico to the world-class resort city of San Jose del Cabo.

“Refining a complex event like this to suit a wide variety of guests and their needs is a constant in a business like ours,” explained NORRA President Michael Pearlman. “There are never simple answers, but we are constantly in touch with our customers to find out how to do all of this bigger and better. Now that we have made these changes we are looking forward to putting on the greatest event in Mexican 1000 history.”

PADDOCK MIX Yoong wins season opener

Alex Yoong made a lightning start to the opening race of the Audi R8 LMS Cup. At the Zhuhai International Circuit in China (March 22), last year’s Audi R8 LMS Cup Champion won from the Swiss Rahel Frey. Rookie Aditya Patel from India took the third and final podium place in his debut Audi R8 LMS Cup race. On the way to victory, Yoong benefitted from the push-to pass function in his Audi R8 LMS. Thanks to this, he was able to take the lead on the first lap from super pole sitter Rahel Frey. He defended his lead over the remaining laps before crossing the line 1.032 seconds ahead of the Swiss woman. The second race was aborted after only three laps due to irregular track conditions. The next round of the Audi R8 LMS Cup is held in South Korea on 1617 May.

Toyota completes junior driver line-up TOYOTA Motorsport has completed the line-up for its junior driver development scheme, which aims to reveal future World Rally Championship (WRC) contenders.

Finland’s Teemu Suninen is the second member of the TMG programme for 2015, alongside France’s Eric Camilli, who was announced in January.

Both will develop their skills in a variety of cars and events as they expand their rally experience.

Teemu, 21, has forged a reputation as a promising talent following his rally debut in 2013. He made his mark in the 2014 Rally Finland when, on his WRC debut, he won the WRC 3 class.

Eric, 27, is a relatively late starter in rallying but has already turned heads in one-make cups Teemu Suninen

Eric Camilli along with second place in the Junior class at Rally France last year. He also won the prestigious Rallye Jeunes FFSA driver search in 2012, following in the footsteps of recent French World Champions.

In addition to competing in WRC 2 and WRC 3, Eric and Teemu will test the Yaris WRC as they gain vital experience behind the wheel of a WRC car. Alongside the experienced duo of Stéphane Sarrazin and Sebastian Lindholm, they will push the Yaris WRC to its limits on a range of surfaces across Europe this year.

The programme also aims to develop the drivers’ existing skills in terms of personal fitness, communication, media relations and team work.

PADDOCK MIX

Impressive BTCC entry list!

An unprecedented 32-car entry has been confirmed for the 2015 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship.

After a hugely entertaining and record breaking 2014 season, which saw Colin Turkington and West Surrey Racing crowned worthy champions, 2015 looks set to build further on the continued success of Britain’s premier motor sport series.

This year marks the second all-NGTC (Next Generation Touring Car) specification season and the fifth campaign since the regulations were first introduced.

The diversity of cars also continues to grow in the BTCC, with premium car manufacturer Infiniti joining the championship and becoming the 12th marque to be represented in the NGTC era.

This year’s Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship will again comprise of 30 races across ten events at nine venues around the UK,

with the season commencing at Brands Hatch on 4/5 April and concluding on the legendary Grand Prix circuit at the same venue on 9/10 October.

Reigning supremo Colin Turkington arguably produced the biggest surprise after it was announced he would be joining Team BMR. The online reveal for the fledgling and ambitious team reached fever pitch, however, when it was also confirmed that fellow double Champion Jason Plato would be joining Turkington as team-mate.

Aron Smith and Team Boss Warren Scott complete the squad’s four-strong VW entry.

Former Champion Andrew Jordan confirmed his departure from both the Honda family and of course his own family-run Eurotech team to take up the reins as lead driver for MG. Jack Goff, concluding an all-new line-up for the reigning manufacturer champions, will partner Jordan at Triple Eight Racing.

WSR soon announced their own top class signing with triple World Touring Car Champion Andy Priaulx joining Rob Collard and young gun Sam Tordoff at the 2014 quadruple winners.

Honda Yuasa Racing is the only front-running team to possess continuity in its driving ranks with both Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden staying with the team for a sixth successive season. The variables in predicting this year’s title chase just keep on coming, however, as the squad switch from the Civic Tourer – last year’s race-winning estate model – to the all-new and much anticipated Civic Type R. Infiniti Support our Paras Racing also brings two fresh faces into the driver line-up with Richard Hawken and Derek Palmer being handed duties behind the wheel.

A host of other independent teams entering cars from Audi (AmD Tuning.com, Exocet AlcoSense),

Chevrolet (Power Maxed Racing), Ford (AmD Tuning.com, Dextra Racing, Motorbase Performance), Honda (Eurotech Racing), Mercedes (Laser Tools Racing, WIX Racing), Proton (Welch Motorsport), Toyota (Handy Motorsport, Houseman Racing, Speedworks Motorsport, Team HARD) and Volkswagen (Team BMR) complete the entry list.

Another standout name among the new entries is that of Nicolas Hamilton, whose part-season drive was also announced today. The brother of current Formula One World Champion Lewis, will become the first disabled competitor to participate in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship. The 22-year-old will enter five race weekends of the 2015 BTCC season, competing in an Audi S3 saloon with AmD Tuning.com, with a view to hopefully contesting the complete season in 2016.

RGM

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