Casr GlobalMag December

CARS GLOBAL MAG RACING

• F.1 season review • SUPERSTARS series

No. 2 / December 2012

FOCUS

Mahindra XUV500 FISKER Karma

Los Angeles Auto Show

ADAM: the Opel chance

Read right away!

During the 1963 spring season Ferrari and Ford were really close to signing a deal that could have changed the history of GT cars and the whole motorsport. At the very last minute of that negotiation Mr. Enzo Ferrari realized that the independence of his little company was more important of the great industrial future that Ford could assure…

This “duel” is still actual on the GT road cars of today.

It is once again the Italian “elegance” vs the American “muscles”, once again Ferrari vs Ford.

Read more at pag. 54

Summary NEWS 2 AUTO Los Angeles Auto Show NEWS 20 AUTO New Cars NEWS 32 GLOBAL News from around the world

38 FOCUS Opel ADAM Mahindra XUV500 OF THE MONTH 54 MISS(es) Ferrari F12berlinetta VS Ford Shelby GT 500 - VIDEO GREEN SIDE 62 THE FISKER Karma - VIDEO Infiniti Emerg-e - VIDEO

74 CLASSIC Happy Birthday Monza !

Alpine A 110 - VIDEO

80 RACING Formula 1 season review SUPERSTARS series - VIDEO NEWS 98 CORPORATE Industry & finance

Automotive app/magazine published by Doppiovù Press sas Lesmo (Italy) doppiovupress@dpress.191.it Monza Court registration requested Chief Editor Vittorio Gargiulo Editorial coordinator Niccolò Gargiulo Graphic design Diego Galbiati Powered by LabelA - Rotterdam (Netherlands) www.labela.nl

AUTO NEWS

LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW 2012 First held in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show event represents the climax of the international car show calendar and offers a fascinating look ahead to the trends of the upcoming season.

Automotive manufacturers and suppliers from around the world gather in California as the stage is set for some of the most important vehicle and industry annoncements of the year.

The Auto Show is open to the public for ten days and is held at the Los Angeles Convention Center where 71,000 square meters are available for everyone to enjoy all the wonderful cars.

Bentley Continental GT3

Acura RLX The 2014 Acura RLX luxury-performance sedan debuted in Los Angeles as the most powerful, spacious, and technologically advanced Acura sedan ever. The RLX utilizes an all-new direct-injection engine, lightweight body structure, and the first-ever application of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer™. The next-generation AcuraLink® cloud-based connected car system makes its debut on the new RLX, offering a broad range of convenience, entertainment and security features.

The car is powered by an all-new 310-horsepower direct-injected SOHC 24-Valve i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management, and is expected to earn estimated EPA fuel economy ratings (preliminary EPA mileage estimates) of 20/31/24 mp (city/highway/ combined). Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) is the world’s first technology to feature independent and continuous control of the left and right rear-wheel steering (toe) angles to achieve new levels of handling agility, high- and low-speed maneuverability, and confident handling control for a two-wheel-drive luxury sedan.

Seven spoke 18x8J aluminum-alloy wheels and 245/45 R18 all-weather tires are standard, while Technology, Krell and Advance grades feature 19x8J wheels and 245/40 R19 tires.

Inside, luxury form and function are smartly integrated in the RLX’s new center console, featuring dual screens – an 8-inch Navigation screen and a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display™ touch screen.

The 2014 Acura RLX is slated to go on-sale at U.S. Acura dealers nationwide in the spring of 2013 and will be available in five grades.

A version of RLX featuring Acura’s new Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive® (Sport Hybrid SHAWD®) technology, producing 370 horsepower with expected fuel economy ratings of 30 city/30 highway/30 combined, will debut later in 2013.

Bentley unveiled its Continental GT3 race car in the US for the first time. Based on the new Continental GT Speed, the fastest road-going Bentley ever, the GT3 concept capitalises on the prodigious performance, outstanding high-speed stability and renowned durability of Bentley’s iconic coupe, while tailoring its specification for the racetrack. The GT3 concept features a rear-wheel drive chassis, state-ofthe-art motorsport hardware and a comprehensive aerodynamic package to compete in GT racing.

Bentley is targeted to return to the motorsport arena towards the end of 2013.

Bentley is also showing its new 205 mph (330 km/h) Continental GT Speed performance flagship, the sister car upon which the GT3 is based and the Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification, a highly distinctive and sporting interpretation of its flagship Mulsanne.

The GT Speed develops 616 bhp (625 PS / 460 kW) at 6000 rev/min with 800 Nm (590 lb.ft) of torque available from 2000 to 5000 rev/min for instantly accessible high performance. Coupled with a new ZF eight-speed close-ratio automatic transmission and state-of-the-art engine management software, the GT Speed dispatches the zero-to-sixty sprint in 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2s), reaching 100 mph (160 km/h) from a standing start in just 9.0 seconds.

Bentley is showcasing a highly distinctive and sporting interpretation of its flagship Mulsanne in Los Angeles. The MDS blends a range of striking design features including unique 21-inch alloy wheels, Bentley Flying ‘B’ wing vents and Diamond Quilted leather trimmed cabin with driver-selectable, sports-tuned suspension and steering, underscoring the performance credentials of Bentley’s 6.75 litre V8 ultra-luxury sports sedan.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

BMW i3 Concept Coupe In Los Angeles BMW showcased the world premiere of the i3 Concept Coupe.

Like the BMW i3 Concept, the Coupe is also propelled by an electric motor developed by the BMW Group, which develops a maximum output of 125 kW/170 hp and peak torque of 250 Newton metres (184 lbft), and channels its instantaneous power delivery to the rear wheels via a single- speed transmission. The electric motor draws its energy from the lithium-ion storage cells under the floor. The passenger cell forms the core of the Life module, which is built from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). BMW i is making such extensive use of this high-tech material because it is extremely light yet very strong too.

A steeply raked windscreen that extends a long way forward and a roof line that descends gently into the vehicle’s tail are the defining features of the BMW

i3 Concept Coupe silhouette. The long doors with frameless windows also have a typical coupe feel to them. The interior of the BMW i3 Concept Coupe illustrates how the cockpit design has evolved as it is readied for series production. The layering structure employed for the exterior once again underpins the arrangement of the function elements and controls, while a mixture of leather, wood, wool and other renewable raw materials ensures that the car’s premium characteristics, including the new aspect of sustainability, can be both plainly seen and felt.

The BMW i3 Concept Coupe helps the driver to optimise efficiency by choosing an appropriate vehicle set-up.

The Driving Experience Control switch on the centre console can be used to select the three driving modes, COMFORT, ECO PRO and ECO PRO+. The sportiness and comfort of the BMW i3 Concept Coupe can be best experienced in the standard COMFORT setting.

ECO PRO mode places the focus more on economical energy management for an increased range and even cleaner performance. Efficiency can be boosted yet further in ECO PRO+ mode, which is designed to do everything possible to maximise driving range. So, not only is the accelerator mapping modified, maximum speed is also limited to 90 km/h (56 mph).

The BMW eDrive system fitted in the BMW i3 Concept Coupe is designed to allow the vehicle to cover a distance of around 160 kilometres (100 miles) on a full battery charge before it has to be plugged into a charging station again.

Chevrolet Spark EV It is powered by an advanced electric motor and battery system. It consists of a GM-designed, coaxial drive unit and electric motor that together deliver 130 hp (110 kW) and 400 lb.-ft. (542 Nm) of torque for instant acceleration; and a more than 20-kWh lithium ion battery is expected to provide among the best EV range performance in its segment.

It will be the first electric vehicle to offer SAE Combo DC Fast Charging capability, enabling the Spark EV to reach 80-percent battery charge in just 20 minutes. A common on-board charging receptacle accommodates all three charging platforms: DC Fast Charge, AC 240V and AC 120V. Using a dedicated 240V outlet, it recharges in less than seven hours.

Inside the car, critical vehicle functions are clearly and intuitively displayed on one of the vehicle’s two reconfigurable, high-resolution, seven-inch color LCD screens, including a confidence gauge that shows the expected driving range based on driving habits and other conditions.

Colours include Electric Blue, Black Granite, Summit White, Silver Ice and Titanium. In addition to previously announced markets including California and South Korea, Spark EV will also go on sale in participating dealerships throughout Oregon, Canada and other global markets. Spark EV will be eligible for coveted high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes in California. It will be priced under $25,000 with tax incentives.

Chrysler Town & Country S It is the latest “S” model in the Chrysler line-up, joining the 200 sedan and convertible and 300 sedan. The Chrysler Town & Country S gets exterior and interior enhancements as well as some standard equipment commonly associated with top-line models.

Available in Brilliant Black, Deep Cherry Red, Stone White or Billet Silver, the 2013 Town & Country S gets revised trim that adds contrast to the minivan’s typically bright exterior treatment. A black chrome grille is combined with black-background Chrysler Winged badges front and rear, a black rear fascia step pad, “S” model badging, 17-inch aluminum wheels with polished face and black-painted pockets and blackedout headlight bezels.

The interior features a monotone black interior unique to this model. It starts with the Black Torino leather seats and it continues with the Piano Black gloss appliques found on the instrument panel and on the spokes of the black leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The segment-exclusive dual-screen Blu-Ray DVD system with HDMI input, two USB recharging ports,

a 12v outlet and a 115v two-prong outlet is standard.

This system, new for 2013, allows rear seat passengers to view standard and Blu-Ray DVDs or to play a highdefinition video game system on the new, higher definition, screens. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque.

The V-6 is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transmission. Town & Country achieves 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 25 on the highway.

New for 2013 is standard trailer sway damping that monitors a towed trailer’s behavior and automatically uses Town & Country’s anti-lock braking system to mitigate any swaying motions.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Dodge Charger Daytona The 2013 Dodge Charger R/T gets even more distinctive.

Debuting at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show the 2013 Dodge Charger Daytona is available in Charger R/T and Charger R/T Road & Track trim levels.

The car brings back the unique style of the historic Daytona package with all the modern performance and technology offered in the current Charger line-up.

Just 2,500 units of the Daytona will be produced in this limited-production run.

“With its 370 horsepower HEMI V-8, rear-wheel drive and iconic design, the 2013 Dodge Charger is a modern day muscle car, and the new Charger Daytona takes it to a new level by paying homage to the historic ‘Daytona’ nameplate,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Dodge Brand.

Available in a unique color palette of Daytona Blue, Bright White, Billet Silver or Pitch Black, the Daytona package features special dark trim that builds upon the Charger’s iconic muscle car design. Satin Black

adorns the front crosshair grille with heritage “R/T” badge, the custom vinyl hood graphic, roof wrap, rear R/T spoiler and the “DAYTONA” graphic on the rear quarter panels. The Daytona features exclusive 20inch five-spoke polished aluminum wheels with Gloss Black painted pockets.

The Charger Daytona’s interior on the Road & Track features unique black performance Nappa leather and suede heated and ventilated seats with Daytona Blue stitching and piping. Similarly, the Daytona on the R/T offers the same appearance in a custom sport cloth seat. Finishing touches include a special numbered “DAYTONA” badge on the instrument panel that features the build number of that specific Charger Daytona model.

The 2013 Dodge Charger Daytona will arrive at Dodge dealerships around the United States in the first quarter of 2013. Suggested retail price starts under $33.000.

Fiat 500e / 500L The Italian automaker is showing two new versions of the 500 at the show: the electric 500e and the longer 500L. The Fiat 500 mini-car is going electric with the 500e. It is powered by a 75kW (100bhp) electric motor mated to a lithium ion battery pack.

The battery should take just four hours to charge using its 240volt on-board charging module allowing to travel 80 miles on full charge and around 100 miles considering city driving conditions.

The chassis and suspension has been revised from the standard 500, to maintain the car’s handling balance with the additional weight of the EV drivetrain.

The exterior look is very similar to the regular Fiat 500 but revisions, includng the addition of an aerodynamic chin spoiler and a new front fender, have cut drag, purportedly adding four miles to the car’s range.

Inside, the 500e comes with a choice of black or white colour schemes, both contrasted with orange trim detailing. A new LCD display, completed with button selectors needed for the basic functioning of the car, replaces the standard car’s instrument cluster.

The 500e will go on sale in California in the second quarter of 2013.

The 500L, the larger and longer five-door 500, will be available in the US with a 1.4-litre MultiAir engine and either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual clutch gearbox. With a power of 158bhp and 184lb ft of torque, this car will surely be a top vehicle for its class.

The Trekking version of the 500L is a restyled version that gives the idea of an enhanced driveability. Riding on 17-inch wheels which slightly increase the car’s ground clearance the 500L Trekking gets a new front and rear bumber together with black body strips and wheel arch covers. It should hit the US market halfway through next year.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Ford Fiesta Transit Connect Wagon Ford showcases for the first time in North America the new 2014 Fiesta. The most distinctive Fiesta to date is expected to deliver the best miles per gallon among its rivals thanks to the new 1.0-litre EcoBoost® engine.

As a matter of fact this Fiesta should deliver more than 40 mpg.

EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less-efficient engines.

In addition to its new engine, Fiesta boasts a suite of technologies and features: a new MyFord Touch® system with 6.5-inch touch screen that features enhanced voice control is now available, providing drivers more options than ever for navigation, communication and entertainment functions. Fiesta still features SYNC® AppLink™ capabilities pioneered on the first Fiesta, which allows drivers to access and control Ford-approved smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls while on the go, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Turn-by-turn navigation remains part of SYNC Services.

Ford’s MyKey® is a new feature on Fiesta, which enables parents in particular to encourage safer driving and limit their teenagers’ exposure to risk at the wheel. The system allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits.

The new Fiesta will offer custom exterior design graphics and sexy new color options. The redesigned exterior boasts a sporty new grille that reflects the new face of Ford.

Fiesta ST is Ford’s newest contribution to the world of hot hatches.

A new high-output variant of the award-winning 1.6-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost engine propels Fiesta ST with an anticipated 197 horsepower and 214 lb.-ft. of torque. Available exclusively as a five-door hatchback in North America and with a six-speed manual transmission, Fiesta ST is projected to achieve up to 34 mpg.

Ford also introduced the first seven-passenger people mover expected to break the 30 mpg-plus highway barrier with the all-new Transit Connect Wagon.

Transit Connect Wagon is offered in two wheelbase lengths, in five- and seven-passenger configurations, and in XL, XLT and Titanium series levels. At least a 1,200-pound payload and more than 100 cubic feet of cargo space are offered.

Transit Connect Wagon offers customers a choice between two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines – a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and an optional 1.6-litre EcoBoost® that is estimated to deliver 30 mpg-plus on the highway.

Honda Civic/Crosstour/CR-Z The 2013 Honda Civic debuted at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show receiving all-new front and rear exterior styling, while all Civics sport extensive interior upgrades including more luxurious finishes, and a host of new standard equipment.

Retuned steering and suspension sharpen the Civic’s handling, extensive chassis upgrades including Honda’s ACE™ II body structure improve safety, ride comfort and interior quietness, and every Civic model has more popular standard features including Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, rearview camera, Pandora® Interface, SMS text message feature, and steering wheel audio controls. The 2013 Civic arrives with even greater value for money, adding highly desired feature with an MSRP increase of only $160 across the lineup.

Pricing for the exceptionally well-equipped 2013 Civic LX Sedan begins at $18,165 (MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $790 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary).

Honda also announced that the 2014 Accord Plug-In Hybrid will be available for retail sale and lease beginning January 15 in California and New York, with an MSRP of $39,780. The 2014 Accord Plug-In has earned the highest EPA MPGe rating in its class (115 MPGe) and has been rated by the EPA with a maximum all-electric EV mode range of 13 miles, and a fuel-economy rating of 47/46/46 mpg (city/hwy/combined). The Accord Plug-in is the first production car in America to meet the more stringent new LEV3/SULEV20 emissions standard, and it will also qualify for single-occupant carpool-lane access in California.

Separately the two-motor Accord Hybrid will launch nationwide next summer, with fuel economy ratings of 49/45/47 mpg (city/hwy/combined). Unlike the unique

styling of the Accord Plug-In, the Accord Hybrid will share styling much closer the conventional Accord Sedan. More details on the Accord Hybrid will be released closer to launch.

The thoroughly revised 2013 Honda Crosstour (bottom right) and 2013 Honda CR-Z (bottom left) also made their auto show debuts, both vehicles having gone on sale in late November. The 2013 Honda Crosstour arrives with extensive updates to both four-cylinder and V-6 models, and a starting MSRP $525 lower than in 2012.

The 2013 Crosstour offers more purposeful exterior styling, significant upgrades to the interior design and materials, and a more powerful, more fuel-efficient available Earth Dreams™ V-6 engine coupled to a sixspeed automatic transmission with paddle-shift control.

The 2013 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe arrives with more power and better fuel efficiency thanks to an allnew Lithium-Ion battery pack, and the new Plus Sport System™ allows improved passing performance via additional on-demand electric boost, activated by a steering wheel-mounted “S+” button. Styling upgrades include revised interior trim, a new front fascia and a new aerodynamically functional rear diffuser.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Hyundai Santa Fe / C3 Roll Top Concept Hyundai Motor Company staged a world premiere of the production version of its three-row, six/sevenpassenger Santa Fe (small picture).

Based on the two-row, five-passenger Santa Fe that first made its world debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show in April, the six/sevenpassenger Santa Fe adds a third row to meet the needs of customers seeking more space. In addition customers are allowed to choose two separated seats in the second row, a rare option in its segment.

Santa Fe customers worldwide will now have a choice between five, six and seven-seat models. The new version, also known as the Long Wheelbase (LWB) Santa Fe, rides on a 2,800mm wheelbase, which is 100mm longer than the five-seater. Its overall length is 215mm longer at 4,905mm, while its overall width of 1,885 is slightly wider (5mm) compared to the fiveseater. The LWB Santa Fe’s overall height is 10mm higher than the five-seater, at 1,690mm.

The longer wheelbase and efficient interior design offer spacious cabin room. Seating utility is also improved, due to a standard folding rear seat back. This seat back is perfect for seating five passengers comfortably or accommodating four passengers, plus long items like skis, golf clubs, snowboards or surfboards. A split third row can be folded flat for bigger cargo room.

The exterior design of the new version is also bolder and more voluminous. The signature differentiating element between the five-seater and the six/sevenseater is the side window shape.

The LWB Santa Fe boasts a more powerful performance as well. It is equipped with the 3.3 litre Lambda GDI engine, delivering a maximum output of 294 PS and maximum torque of 34.8 kg•m. The engine is mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission (in North America only).

The LWB Santa Fe is scheduled to hit showrooms in the U.S. early next year. The names of the two Santa Fes may be slightly differentiated by region depending on local customers’ preferences. In the U.S., the fiveseater Santa Fe is badged as the Santa Fe Sport, while the LWB version is called Santa Fe. Also unveiled in Los Angeles the Veloster C3 Roll Top Concept (big picture). Designed by Hyundai Design North America, the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept offers a distinctive canvas roof that opens to the rear or windshield of the vehicle. The cleverly designed dual-function powerretractable roof combined with the tailgate gives the C3 a dual personality. Inspired by urban style, repurposed materials are used throughout the Veloster C3 Roll Top concept for added character and one-of-a-kind design.

The convertible red soft top is inspired by billboard advertising found on rolling soft side trailers. An industrial billboard truck tarp with a black “The C3 Roll Top” statement logo was created, then repurposed and stitched together to create a unique graphic roll top.

Inside the C3, broken and old skate board decks are repurposed and artistically line the cargo floor creating a unique mosaic. C3 features tiles from more than 20 skate boards on the cargo floor and rear seatbacks.

Skateboard grip tape also lines the inside of the tailgate and accents the soft top when rolled forward. The black with red interior accents follow the same colour scheme as the retractable roof and are highlighted by red stitching, red bolsters and a red C3 logo in the front seats. A 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine powers the Veloster C3 concept and produces 201 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque from 1,750 – 4,500 rpm with regular fuel. Hyundai’s 1.6-liter Gamma turbocharged engine features a twinscroll turbocharger that when combined with the GDI system, results in instantaneous power delivery.

Jaguar XFR-S / F-Type On the first press day of the Los Angeles Auto Show journalists from all over the world were presented with the world premiere of the Jaguar XFR-S (below). The second model in Jaguar’s ultra-high performance R-S range, the XFR-S joins its XKR-S sibling in the exclusive 300km/h club and is a vivid expression of Jaguar’s longstanding and legendary sports saloon lineage.

Electrifying performance is provided by the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engine which now boasts 550PS and 680Nm - up 40PS and 55Nm respectively over its XFR installation. The increases have been achieved through revisions to the engine management system and optimisation of the flow of air both into and out of the engine. Fitted with an eight-speed transmission incorporating Jaguar’s ‘Quickshift’ technology (developed for the F-TYPE), the increase in engine output allows the XFR-S to accelerate to 60mph in 4.4 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds) and on to an electronically limited top speed of 186mph (300km/h).

Airflow has been carefully managed in order to both allow the engine to operate at peak efficiency and let the car cleave the air cleanly and safely. The resulting body changes have created a distinctively assertive appearance, while overall lift is reduced by 68%.

The unique 20-inch lightweight forged alloy ‘Varuna’ wheels are wider front and rear and are shod with specially developed Pirelli rubber (10mm wider all round, being 265/35 and 295/30 front/rear), giving the XFR-S a more muscular stance and increasing its grip

and stability. Allied to this are extensive suspension revisions which serve to increase lateral suspension stiffness by 30% for greater steering precision and responsiveness. The car’s intent is underlined by the technical palette of materials used on the interior. This includes carbon leather on the seat bolsters and arm rests and a Dark Aluminium fascia, both of which are exclusive to the R-S range.

Also on display in Los Angeles the Jaguar F-Type (North American debut) is a two-seater, convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver involvement.

Seen for the first time with special-order Firesand paintwork and equipped with optional ‘Design’ and both exterior and interior ‘black’ packs, this individual F-TYPE - a V6 S model - demonstrates the range of personalisation options that are available for customers.

The F-TYPE ‘Design’ pack features body-coloured side sill extensions, front aero splitter and a gloss black colour-keyed rear valance (V6 models only).

The exterior ‘Black’ pack is available with Firesand, Ultimate Black, Polaris White, Italian Racing Red, Rhodium Silver and Satellite Grey body colours and adds gloss black finishes to items including the front grille surround, side power vents and roll hoops (additions vary depending on the F-TYPE derivative).

The interior ‘Black’ pack adds a flat-bottomed Sports steering wheel with black trim finisher, gloss black vent surrounds, gloss black door switch surrounds and gloss black instrument cluster dial rings.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

2013 will be the 10th anniversary of the famous Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. To celebrate, Jeep is introducing a new, limited-production 2013 Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition. Available as a two-door Wrangler or four-door Wrangler Unlimited, the Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition is the most capable Wrangler ever produced. Based on the Rubicon model, it is available with a standard six-speed manual or available fivespeed automatic transmission mated to a Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 ft.-lbs. of torque. The Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition comes standard with a Premium

Sunrider soft top and is available with a black threepiece Freedom hard top or body-color hard top.

Available exterior colors for the Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition are Billet Silver, White and 10th Anniversary Edition-exclusive Anvil.

Striking red leather seats with “Rubicon 10th Anniversary” embroidered into the front seat backs grab attention inside the car. Red stitching adorns the leather-wrapped steering wheel and the center console. A unique gauge cluster features a “10th Anniversary” signature and also features a premium Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).

Kia Sorento / Forte Kia Motors America unveiled a significantly redesigned version of its popular Sorento CUV (big picture) at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. Talking about the engine the all-aluminum 3.3-litre GDI V6 produces a smooth 290 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and a stout 252 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm. It’s available optionally on the LX and EX, while residing as standard equipment in the LX V6, EX V6, SX and SX Limited. Power is routed to either the front wheels or, optionally, to all four using an enhanced Torque On Demand all-wheel drive system that now includes the benefit of Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC) that aids stability under certain driving conditions. The 2.4-litre GDI fourcylinder engine returns, now as standard equipment in the LX and EX, and replaces the previously-standard 2.4-litre MPI 4-cylinder. With 191 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 181 lb.-ft. of torque on-hand at a low 4,250 rpm, the lightweight all-aluminum powerplant is efficient while still providing enough grunt to perform yeoman’s duty day in and day out. The car comes standard with a smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission.

New available FlexSteer offers drivers a choice of three steering modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

The new 2014 Sorento has an all-new chassis that increases torsional rigidity by 18-percent. On the outside, redesigned front and rear fascias enhance the Sorento’s road presence with a lower, broader appearance up front and a visually wider stance at the rear. The new Sorento rides on redesigned 17-, 18- and, a first for Kia’s best-selling CUV, larger 19-inch wheels.

Inside, the large center gauge cluster features a 7-inch TFT LCD that projects a digital speedometer flanked by easy-to-read analog instruments for the tachometer, fuel level and engine temp. The TFT LCD readout also displays trip and vehicle information, along with navigation updates (optional). Using advanced sonar sensors, the 2014 Sorento is also the first of many Kia vehicles to begin offering a blind spot detection system.

The system continually monitors traffic around the Sorento and if another vehicle is detected within a set distance, audio and visual elements alert the driver to the issue. The car is expected to arrive in showrooms during the first quarter of 2013. Shortly after the arrival of the new 2014 Sorento, the Sorento SX Limited is destined for market within the second quarter of 2013.

Offered only in Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Silver, the SX Limited is set apart visually from the Sorento SX by unique self-leveling Xenon HID head lights, exclusive 19-inch chrome wheels and sporty red painted brake calipers. Exclusive SXL badges adorn the exterior to complete the look.

Inside, unique and luxurious Nappa leather trimmed seats, a wood-trimmed, heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats are all standard. Also on display in Los Angeles the all-new 2014 Forte sedan (small picture).

Offered in LX and EX trim levels, it is expected to go on sale in the first quarter of 2013. The LX features a 1.8-litre powerplant, while the EX comes standard with a 2.0-litre engine. With 148 horsepower available at 6,500 rpm and 131 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 4,700 rpm, the 1.8-litre MPI inline four-cylinder engine found in the LX routes power to the front wheels through either a standard six speed manual transmission or an optional six speed automatic gearbox. Forte EX enhances the driving experience with a 173-horsepower (at 6,500 rpm) 2.0-litre inline four cylinder GDI engine. With a robust 154 lb.-ft. of torque available at 4,700 rpm, the EX comes standard with a six speed automatic. The all-new Forte rides on a chassis that is longer (by 1.2 inches), lower (0.6 inches) and wider (0.2 inches) than the previous Forte sedan. The base LX manual rides on 195/65R-15 tires, while 205/55R-16 tires on 16inch alloy wheels are optional. The top-of-the-line EX is shod with the same 55-series tires. Low-profile 215/4517 tires mounted on sporty 17-inch alloy wheels are optional.

Land Rover Range Rover Making its U.S. Auto Show Debut in Los Angeles is the all-new 2013 Range Rover. The world’s first SUV with a lightweight all-aluminum body, the new Range Rover takes the capabilities of the marque’s flagship

to a new level, with greater luxury and refinement. The US specification vehicle with the naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 will be approximately 380kgs lighter than the outgoing equivalent. This new aluminum platform delivers significant enhancements in performance and agility, along with an improvement in fuel economy and reduction in CO2 emissions. The new Range Rover goes on sale in December, 2012.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

MINI Paceman The latest MINI model is celebrating its North American premiere in the hot spot of Los Angeles. Alongside the new addition to the brand’s line-up, MINI is also treating its Californian audience to an array of its other current models and products.

With its two doors and large tailgate, the MINI Paceman brings an air of sporting elegance and individualism to the premium compact segment. It is the second MINI model (after the Countryman) with an exterior length exceeding four metres and the option of ALL4 all-wheel drive. Two four-cylinder petrol engines will be available from the launch of the MINI Paceman in the USA. Their combination of considerable brawn and extensive minimalism technology is a recipe for sports performance and low fuel consumption also.

The powerplant under the skin of the MINI Cooper Paceman generates peak output of 121 hp, while the MINI Cooper S Paceman boasts a turbocharged engine producing 181 hp. The two units channel their

power to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox as standard; a six-speed automatic is optional for both model variants. The MINI Cooper S Paceman can also be ordered as an option with ALL4 all-wheel drive.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé / Ener-G-Force Mercedes-Benz shows two world premieres at the 2012 LA Auto Show: the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and the Ener-G-Force oneoff vehicle featuring the genes of the Mercedes-Benz G‑Class. With the new SLS AMG Coupé Black Series, Mercedes-AMG is all set to present the high-end version of the already legendary gullwing model. Inspired by the racing version of the SLS AMG GT3, the super sports car weights 1550 kg. This means it is around 70 kg lighter than the SLS AMG, and achieves what even for super sports cars is an outstanding power/weight ratio of 2.45 kg/hp. Its AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine produces 464 kW (631 hp) at 7400 rpm and accelerates the gullwing model to a speed of 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds.

The AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension, the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system and the weight-optimised forged AMG lightalloy wheels with newly developed sports tyres, all help to raise the driving dynamics of the SLS AMG Black Series to a new level. Also making a contribution in this respect are the electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the enhanced AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. The AMG Aerodynamics package is optionally available to further boost the vehicle’s driving dynamics.

The market launch of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series will commence in June 2013. The price in Germany (incl. 19% VAT) will be of 249,900 euros.

Ener-G-Force is a cool design study. According to Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The Ener-G-Force is the vision of an off-roader that, while reflecting tomorrow’s adventures, also invokes the genes of the Mercedes-Benz off-road icon, the G model. Modern and cool, it could also be a clue about a new beginning for the off-road design idiom of Mercedes-Benz”. Built as 1:1-scale model, the design

study is clearly inspired by the G-Class but presents a radical reinterpretation of this classic that looks far into the future. Like the G-Class, the Ener-G-Force sports a front with an expressive radiator grille that incorporates the headlamps. LEDs in the headlamps form lamp units in the shape of a G. The front indicators and position lights are mounted on top of the wings as a significant G-Class element.

Thanks to alternative drive systems, the Ener-GForce should also be exceptionally environmentally friendly and able to demonstrate enhanced green-car characteristics. Four wheel-hub motors, whose output for each individual wheel is adapted precisely to the respective terrain by high-performance electronics, are designed to provide the pulling power. The striking side skirts also house quick-change battery packs.

Changes in the colour of the illumination of the side skirts indicate the operating and charge status of the energy packs. The design study shows that the offroad classic from Mercedes-Benz, whose continuous history goes all the way back to the 1970s, could in fact tackle the future in a stylistically and technologically advanced version.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Porsche Cayman The Los Angeles Auto Show was the stage for the world premiere of the new Porsche Cayman. The third generation Cayman is lower, longer, lighter and faster.

It is up to 30 kg lighter, depending on the specific model and equipment, and it consumes up to 15 per cent less fuel per 100 km than the previous model, despite higher engine and driving performance.

Its proportions are new: an extended wheelbase with shorter overhangs and 18- and 19-inch diameter wheels with larger rolling circumference are identifying visual characteristics of the car’s more enhanced driving performance. Precise lines emphasise the car’s low, extended silhouette with the windscreen shifted forward and the roof line that reaches far back. Especially expressive and characteristic are the dynamic recesses in the doors, which guide induction air into the distinctive air scoops on the rear side panels and then directly to the engine. The new generation of the two-seat midengine sports car is debuting in two classic Porsche versions: the Cayman and the Cayman S. The base

model is powered by a 2.7-liter flat six-cylinder engine with 275 hp (202 kW). It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, depending on the equipment, and reaches a top speed of 266 km/h.

Its NEDC fuel consumption lies between 7.7 l/100 km and 8.2 l/100 km, depending on the selected transmission. The 3.4-liter engine of the Cayman S produces 325 hp (239 kW); the best possible acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h is 4.7 seconds with appropriate features. The Cayman S can reach a top speed of 283 km/h, and its NEDC fuel consumption value lies between 8.0 l/100 km and 8.8 l/100 km, depending on the selected transmission. Both sport coupés are equipped with standard manual six-speed transmission. The sevenspeed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) can be delivered as an option. The market launch of the new Cayman generation in Europe is scheduled for March 2, 2013. Base prices in Germany are 51,385 euros for the Cayman and 64,118 euros for the Cayman S, each including 19 % VAT.

smart forjeremy The encounter between the internationally renowned fashion designer Jeremy Scott and the smart fortwo electric drive has produced a fascinating smart fortwo.

The unique smart forjeremy has wings!

Mercedes-Benz and smart design Gorden Wagener explains: “Cooperations with fashion designers are normally limited to selecting interior materials and interior and exterior colour schemes. With Jeremy Scott, however, we wanted to go one step further and integrated the typical wings as a central design element in the vehicle body”.

Wings are one of the recurring design elements used

by Jeremy Scott. “For me, wings mean freedom, a sense of weightlessness. Because of this, I definitely wanted to have them for the smart electric drive in order to convey the way it frees the environment of noxious emissions and symbolises the new lightness of mobility”, explains Jeremy Scott.

On either side of the vehicle is a wing made of transparent fibreglass and decorated with rocket-shaped elements that light up red, serving as rear and brake lights.

The interior creates an undeniably luxurious space.

Together with interior designers of the “smart Design Division”, Jeremy Scott chose fine white nappa leather for the instrument panel, seats and door trim. Whilst the instrument panel features minimalist seams, the seat insert areas and the center panels in the doors boast extravagant diamond stitching.

With its 55 kW electric motor the smart fortwo electric drive accelerates from 0 - 60 km/h in 4.8 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 125 km/h. The 17.6 kWh lithium-ion battery enables the urban two-seater to travel approximately 145 kilometres in city traffic without producing any local emissions.

The smart forjeremy showcar is set to be launched in 2013 as a limited special edition.

2012 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Toyota RAV4 Toyota’s fourth-generation RAV4 made its world debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show and will arrive in showrooms early next year. It will be available in three well-equipped grades: LE, XLE and Limited.

For 2013, RAV4 will feature Toyota’s 2.5-litre fourcylinder, which will produce 176 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 ft. lbs. of torque at 4,100 rpm.

The optional V6 of the previous-generation RAV4 will be discontinued.Replacing the previous four-speed automatic will be a six-speed transmission with Sequential Shift.

RAV4 front-wheel-drive models have received EPAestimated fuel efficiency ratings of 24 mpg city/31 highway, while all-wheel-drive models are EPAestimated at 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway. The new RAV4 will provide its active owners a more dynamic drive, with new technologies like a Sport Mode with Dynamic Torqu Control AWD, enhancements in suspension performance, and optimized electric power steering.

RAV4 has a MacPherson strut front suspension,

double-wishbone rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. The LE will ride on 17-inch steel wheels, XLE will feature 17-inch alloys, and Limited will be equipped with 18-inch alloys.

Dynamic Torque Control has three different drive modes: Auto, Lock and Sport. In Auto Mode, RAV4 delivers power primarily to the front wheels under most driving conditions, switching automatically to AWD only when needed. By only engaging the rear axle and delivering power to the rear wheels when needed, Auto Mode helps enhance fuel efficiency and reduce drivetrain wear. In Lock Mode at lower speeds, RAV4 essentially has a full-time AWD system with power delivered to all four wheels. As on the frontdrive RAV4’s, Sport Mode sharpens shift timing, throttle response, and steering response. The cargo area is deeper, larger and easier to access than in the previous generation, with just over 38.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity behind the rear seats. With rear seats folded, RAV4 gains maximum cargo capacity of 73.3 cu. ft.

Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Jetta Hybrid Volkswagen showcased the world premiere of the new Beetle Cabriolet. The visual impression is of a car that is longer, wider and has a lower roofline, making its proportions look more dynamic. Aside from its performance data and fuel economy figures, the most important value of a cabriolet is the time it takes to stow the soft top. This is accomplished in just 9.5 seconds thanks to a standard electro-hydraulic drive.

It can even be opened while driving up to a speed of 31 mph (50 km/h). The fabric soft top of the Beetle Cabriolet can be raised in 11.0 seconds. The gain in the car’s length benefits interior space and boot capacity.

And even when the soft top is down, it hardly limits cargo space; when compared to the New Beetle, its cargo capacity was increased by 24 litres to 225 litres.

Unlike in the New Beetle Cabriolet, the rear bench seat can now be folded down. In the USA, the new Beetle Cabriolet is available with a 103 kW TDI (140 PS) and a 147 kW TSI (200 PS), which are also offered in Europe, as well as a 125 kW five-cylinder engine (MPI) that was specially developed for the American market.

The latter is offered with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic; a Volkswagen 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is available as an option for the TSI and TDI. In Europe, Volkswagen will offer the Cabriolet exclusively with direct-injection four-cylinder turbo engines. The three TSI (petrol) engines produce 77 kW/105 PS, 118 kW/160 PS and 147 kW/200 PS, while the two TDI (diesel) engines develop 77 kW/105 PS and 103 kW/140 PS. Either of these engines may be paired with an optional Volkswagen-developed dual-clutch gearbox (6- or 7-speed DSG).

Also showcased in Los Angeles, the new Jetta Hybrid is powered by a high-tech turbo petrol engine (TSI with 110 kW/150 PS) and a zero-emissions electric motor (20 kW) working in a fuel-efficient alliance.

Power transmission is managed by the 7-speed DSG from Volkswagen. While this hybrid drive enables very impressive driving performance (0 – 60 mph in less than 9 seconds), the new Jetta Hybrid also produces an extremely low (combined) fuel economy value of 45 mpg (based on manufacturer estimate). At the press of a button, the driver can also choose to drive the new Jetta Hybrid in pure electric mode, and therefore with zero emissions, at speeds of up to 44 mph and over a distance of 1.3 miles. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy for driving the electric motor. During braking, the Jetta Hybrid switches over to a battery regeneration mode, which ‘captures’ kinetic energy and feeds it into the battery as electrical energy. Of central importance is the Power meter: a multifunctional display that replaces the tachometer, informs the driver of the momentary operating state of the Jetta Hybrid: a general readiness to drive (‘Ready’), battery regeneration (‘Charge’), ecofriendly driving mode (‘Eco’), boosting (‘Boost’) or pure internal combustion engine driving with the TSI (‘Off’). In addition, electric driving is also indicated in the instruments (‘E-mode’).

AUTO NEWS DECEMBER

NEW MASERATI QUATTROPORTE TO DEBUT IN DETROIT

Representing italian design at its best the new Maserati Quattroporte (to be presented at 2013 NAIAS in Detroit) is a high-performance sports luxury sedan that reinterprets the design features of classic Maseratis in a contemporary design language.

“Its style was born out of the guiding design principles of Maserati: harmony of shapes, dynamism of lines, Italian elegance – said Lorenzo Ramaciotti, Heado of Maserati Design Center - Some of the elements characterizing the previous model have been purposely maintained: the front grill, the three side vents, the triangular C pillar. At the same time new style and functional features were introduced: the strong belt line that runs through the entire side of the car giving the new Quattroporte a look and feel that is at once muscular and elegant with frameless doors and three side windows.�

MINI Countryman autumn updates

AUTO NEWS DECEMBER

Autumn 2012 will see the British carmaker’s first model to offer all-wheel drive. The modifications designed for the MINI Countryman will be rolled out across all model variants from November 2012. Newly designed rings encircling the Centre Speedo and four air vents immediately stand out. They will now be presented across the board in the colour shade Carbon Black and also have an inner ring in high-gloss black or – as part of the Chrome Line Interior option – in chrome.

Newly designed door inserts also help to enhance the car’s premium ambience: remodelled door armrests provide even more comfortable support for the arms, and the controls for the electric windows are now also positioned in the door trim. Moving the window controls away from the centre console also optimises access to the larger storage compartment below it.

From autumn 2012 the MINI Countryman will come

as standard with a three-seat rear bench, while a pair of individual seats will be available as a no-cost alternative.

Customers can choose from six engine variants for the MINI Countryman. The three petrol and three diesel units produce outputs stretching from 66 kW/90 hp to 135 kW/184 hp. Beyond these, there is also the ultra-sporty MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, powered by a turbocharged 160 kW/218 hp engine. The ALL4 all-wheel-drive system fitted as standard on this top-class performance variant is also available as an option for the MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman. From autumn 2012 the MINI One Countryman and MINI Cooper Countryman will meet the stipulations of the EU6 exhaust emissions standard due to come into force in 2014.

New Ibiza CUPRA set to launch in February With its compact format and high level of functionality, the new SEAT Ibiza CUPRA is an enjoyable, dynamic car for everyday use. The car accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds and reaches top speed of 228 km/h. The average fuel consumption is 5.9 litres/100 km. This performance is possible thanks to the 1.4 TSI power unit, a compact piece of hitech with dual forced induction via supercharger and turbocharger, as well as direct injection. Its 132 kW / 180 PS and torque of 250 Newton metres guarantee exceptionally refined performance, while a unique sound actuator in the exhaust system gives an extra sporty sound characteristic. The seven-speed DSG transmission with its extremely short shift times can

now also be operated via paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

The sporty look is guaranteed in the exterior design also. The side view of the three-door coupĂŠ is brought to life by the sharply defined lines and edges, with the muscular rear shoulders and exclusive 17-inch wheels underscoring its dynamics. The emotional power of the exterior design is repeated in the interior of the Ibiza CUPRA and in its extremely minimalist, clearly structured cockpit. The entertainment system in the Ibiza CUPRA is completely new and include include the navigation system, the hands-free phone system with voice control and the on-board computer.

Market launch is scheduled for February 2013.

AUTO NEWS DECEMBER

The ultimate open-air experience Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster

On the heels of the successful coupé introduced in Summer 2011, and with over 1,300 units already delivered to customers, the House of the Raging Bull is now offering the convertible version of the Aventador, a vehicle that perfectly balances the ultimate driving experience with the ultimate in sports car sophistication. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster can immediately be recognized by the unique profile of its upper area, which extends along newly designed geometric lines from the removable roof to the engine hood.

The two-piece roof is made entirely from carbon fiber using various technologies such as RTM and Forged Composite®. These technologies guarantee maximum aesthetic performance and stiffness although each component is extremely light, weighing less than 6 kg. These two parts are removable, easy to handle, and being lightweight and simple to attach, can be stored in the front luggage compartment. The engine hood on the Roadster differs from the hood on the coupé because of its central “spinal column” with two pairs of hexagonal windows connected at the sides.

Their purpose is to cool the engine, drain off rain water properly and, of course, allow the beauty of the V12 power unit to be admired.

The new Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster also features new Dione 20�/21� rims with a daring, aggressive look.

Crafted in light forged aluminum, they lower the weight of the vehicle by 10 Kg as compared with the standard set of rims. The range of colors available for the Roadster has been supplemented with a very light, metallic blue color, Azzuro Thetis, whose tone varies with the angle of the light.

The new Lamborghini boasts record performance. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3 seconds flat and has a maximum speed of some 350 km/h. These numbers, combined with a drive train featuring a centrally located, 6.5 liter aspirated V12 generating 700 hp, an ISR 7-speed gearbox and push-rod suspension make the new Aventador Roadster a truly unique super sports. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster is a dream that can be realized and ordered at any Lamborghini dealer in the world for the price of 300,000 euro, excluding taxes.

Facelift for Kia Cadenza in 2013 Kia’s popular Cadenza large luxury sedan will receive upgrades and a new look for 2013.

Following the innovative visual style of Kia’s flagship Quoris (‘K9’ in Korea), the 2013 Cadenza (‘K7’ in Korea) will have a more distinctive appearance with new hood, trunk lid, light clusters and new bumpers, plus side air vents in the front wings and a new interpretation of the brand’s “tiger nose” grille.

Made in Korea, the new-look Cadenza will go on sale in different regions of the world during the first half of 2013.

Tata Nano Special Edition

AUTO NEWS DECEMBER

Tata Nano makes this festive season special with the Nano Special Edition, with a bouquet of new features, stylish exteriors, new utilities and infotainment.

New Alloy Wheels and sportier brand new decals are among the new features. In the interiors, two glove boxes, one on the passenger side and the other on the driver’s side, give more space for all utilities. A stylish audio system, with MP3, USB, Aux-in and front two door spekers, is included. The Tata Nano car’s 624cc engine delivers an impressive 38PS of power (earlier 35 PS) and 51Nm of torque (earlier 48 Nm). Yet fuel efficiency, already a high point with Tata Nano owners, has been taken to a new high of 25.4 kmpl (earlier 23.6 kmpl) as certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

The high fuel efficiency, with a low kerb weight of 600 kg, ensures that the Tata Nano at 92.7 gm / km has the lowest CO2 emission among cars in India.

Also the ride and handling has become even better with a revised suspension set-up, including an anti-roll bar at the front, and a steering mechanism made even easier.

The interiors come in luxurious beige in the Nano LX, rich black in the Nano CX and stunning medium graphite in the Standard version. The exteriors are a veritable vibgyor of 10 colours, eight of them new -- Pearl White, Rouge Red, Aqua Blue, Neon Rush, Serene White, Meteor Silver, Mojito Green, Papaya Orange, Sunshine Yellow, and Champagne Gold. New half or full wheel caps accentuate the distinctiveness. The Tata Nano Special Edition is available at the same price. With features worth Rs. 25,000, the Nano Special Edition is surely the most desirable set of wheels on the road.

Subaru Introduces All-New Forester in Japan

The fourth generation Forester was developed with the goal to maximize its value as a true SUV. To realize this, both driving performance and ride quality were highly improved by adopting Subaru’ s latest technologies together with the enhanced body rigidity. Many upgrades have been designed for the new Forester: front section, door panels and rear gate express powerful images.

The wheel arch and wheel designs project a greater road presence and off-road capability. Utility of the cargo room has been improved for outdoor use: a powerlift tailgate has been newly developed as an option.

By simply pushing the button, the tailgate can be opened

and closed automatically. The opening height of the tailgate can be adjusted so that the tailgate does not hit a garage ceiling. The interior design suggests spaciousness as well as boldness and provides a powerful look as a SUV, with a quality feel due to its sophisticated shape and soft touch materials.

Driveability and fuel efficiency have been improved due to a new generation Boxer engine. Subaru’ s own Horizontally-Opposed Direct Injection Turbo engine, combined with Lineartronic transmission developed for higher torque, achieves environmental friendliness as well as high performance with smooth acceleration. In addition, the new AWD control system “X-MODE” delivers rough-road driving capability. Hill start assist function has also been adopted. When the vehicle stops on any hill, braking will be kept to maintain vehicle’ s position temporarily as the driver takes off the brake. The new Subaru Forester went on sale in Japan on November 13.

AUTO NEWS DECEMBER

Mazda Atenza (Mazda 6) goes on sale The new Mazda Atenza (Mazda 6) sedan incorporates both SKYACTIV technologies, designed to simultaneously achieve the seemingly conflicting goals of driving pleasure and environmental and safety performance without the slightest compromise, and the new KODO-SOUL OF MOTION design language. It will also be the first model equipped with Mazda’s brake energy regeneration system, i-ELOOP, which begins charging a capacitor the moment you take your foot off the accelerator.

Electricity stored in the capacitor can then be used to power electric components throughout the car.

In freeing the engine from much of the duty of providing electricity to these components, more fuel energy goes directly to powering the car resulting in clear improvements in fuel economy.

The new Mazda6 draws on the best of Mazda’s technical expertise and craftsmanship across all domains, from dynamic performance and design, through to environmental performance and safety.

It definitely stands as the flagship model for a new generation of Mazda products.

Third generation Kia Cerato sedan revealed To coincide with the unveiling of the all-new Kia Forte sedan in the USA at the LA Motor Show, Kia has revealed details of the version for other export markets outside of North America, the all-new Kia Cerato. Designed at Kia’s American Design Center in Irvine, California under the direction of Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, the new Cerato has cab-forward styling, a coupe-like roofline, distinctive concave door contours and a rising beltline with chrome molding extending into the C-pillar to project an aura of elegance.

Compared with second-generation, new Cerato is 30 mm longer (4560 mm), 14.0, 15.0 or 16.5 mm lower (1435, 1445, or 1460 mm) depending on market and 5 mm wider (1780 mm), with the wheelbase extended by 50 mm (2700 mm) to become the longest in class – now the same as Kia’s Sorento SUV. Trunk capacity is increased to 421 liters (SAE).

Inside the car the sweeping curve of the center stack is reinforced by carbon-look trim and for enhanced elegance, soft-touch materials are applied to the upper and center door trims, dashboard, and door armrests. A choice of black one-tone and gray twotone cloth or leather upholstery, and two optional ‘color packs’ featuring brown and black or white and black leather, will be offered.

Available options (depending on model) include 10way powered and ventilated driver’s seat, heated

front and rear seats, leather upholstery, powered glass tilt-and-slide sunroof, smart keyless entry with engine start/stop button, Xenon headlamps, Bluetooth® hands-free system with remote controls, manual and dual-zone climate control automatic airconditioning.

In most export markets outside of North America, new Cerato customers will be offered a choice of two gasoline powerunits: Kia’s 161 ps 2.0-litre Nu engine (power up 3.2%) and the popular 130 ps 1.6-litre Gamma engine (power up 4.8%).

Every new Cerato model features a six-speed transmission, which together with the lightweight aluminum engines, enable new Cerato to deliver a highly competitive combination of power with modest fuel consumption and low emissions.

To maximize occupant protection the new bodyshell incorporates 63% of high-strength steel with three additional cross members and greatly strengthened B-pillars. Torsional rigidity of the bodyshell is increased by 37% (over the previous model), improving safety, refinement, ride comfort and steering precision.

Following the introduction of the all-new Cerato sedan, five-door hatchback and two-door coupe variants of the new generation model will go on sale in the second half of 2013. A wagon version will not be built.

Proton unveiled Prevé and Exora for Australia

AUTO NEWS DECEMBER

Malaysian automotive manufacturer Proton unveiled the Prevé and Exora, two new models for the Australian market.

The Prevé will be on sale through all authorised Australian Proton dealers, with the first shipment due to arrive in January 2013. The Prevé is offered in a GX variant utilising a 6-speed CVT transmission and a 5-speed manual transmission, both coupled with Proton’s own CamPro 1.6L IAFM+ engine. It will be available in six colour choices: White, Red, Brown, Grey, Silver and Black.

A technological first for Proton, the Prevé utilises a method defined as Hot Press Forming (HPF) that provides better protection and higher body as well as structural rigidity without compromising the overall car bodyweight. The vehicle is also equipped with a Smart Information Display system (SID) that displays vital information and status updates on the Prevé’s various functions such as average fuel consumption, distance to empty, battery health and many more.

The Prevé is also equipped with Electronic Stability Control and ABS. Proton will be announcing upgraded variants which will be available mid-2013, and will be powered by Proton’s new generation of turbo engine. The 1.6-litre soft turbo engine delivers power and torque equivalent to that of larger 2.0-litre normally aspirated engines, is mated with Proton’s 7-speed ProTronic CVT. The Prevé is priced from $18,990 drive away for the GX manual, and $20,990 for the GX CVT. Proton Exora will go on sale mid 2013 with pricing to be confirmed closer to its launch date. Both variants will be powered by Proton’s turbo engine, coupled with a 7-speed CVT. The Exora will be launched with a list of standard features across the range such as ESC, ABS and roof mounted DVD player. The GXR variant will receive additional features and will be available in seven colours; White, Red, Blue, Gold, Grey, Silver and Black.

McLaren GT confirms production plans for limited run 12C GT can-am edition

McLaren GT has confirmed plans for a limited production run of the track-focused 12C GT CanAm Edition. The limited edition track-special pays tribute to Bruce McLaren and Denny Hulme who successfully raced a series of McLaren models in the Can-Am series, claiming a string of championships between them for Bruce McLaren Racing.

McLaren GT, the race car manufacturing arm of the McLaren Group, will produce no more than 30 examples of the 12C GT Can-Am Edition. Billed as the ‘ultimate track car’, these will not be subject to the usual racing regulations of the successful 12C GT3 racer on which it is based. Each will be fitted with an unrestricted version of the familiar 3.8-litre twinturbo V8 engine with a unique engine calibration, and optimised cooling system to increase the power output of up to 630hp, making the 12C GT Can-Am Edition the most powerful 12C produced to date.

The dramatic appearance of the 12C GT Can-Am Edition is dominated by the large carbon fibre rear wing. This forms part of a unique high downforce aerodynamic package which has been honed by

McLaren Racing using Formula 1 technology and simulation, and offers an increase in downforce by 30 per cent. Further carbon fibre components enhance the styling of the track car, further differentiating it from the GT3 racing version. These include door mirror mounts and covers, engine cover vents, side radiator intake vanes, sill covers and badges.

The 12C GT Can-Am Edition is also fitted with a full FIA-approved race-specification rollcage. Inside the cockpit are two black race seats, complete with full six-point harnesses, and a unique McLaren GT steering wheel carried over from the 12C GT3 race car. Buyers of the 12C GT Can-Am Edition will also be able to benefit from bespoke support packages from McLaren GT. The 12C GT Can-Am Edition will be strictly limited to a production run of no more than 30 cars, costing £375,000. Each will be built at the new home of McLaren GT in Woking, with production commencing from March 2013.

GLOBAL NEWS

Asia / North America South Korea / United States Hyundai and Kia initiate voluntary program to adjust fuel economy ratings on select vehicles Hyundai Motor America and Kia Motors America announced that, following discussions with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), they are voluntarily adjusting the fuel economy ratings for 35 percent of 2011-13 model year vehicles sold through October 31, 2012.

Procedural errors at the automakers’ joint testing operations in Korea led to incorrect fuel economy ratings for select vehicle lines. As part of Hyundai/ Kia’s corrective actions, the fuel economy ratings for vehicles currently in showrooms are being voluntarily relabeled. With these changes, the 2012 Hyundai/Kia fleet fuel economy level is reduced by an average of 3 percent – from 27 to 26 MPG. Both companies are putting in place a comprehensive reimbursement program for affected current and former vehicle owners to cover the additional fuel costs associated with the fuel economy rating change.

Customers will receive a personalized debit card that will reimburse them for their difference in the EPA combined fuel economy rating, based on the fuel price in their area and their own actual miles driven. In addition, as an acknowledgement of the inconvenience this may cause, an extra 15 percent to the reimbursement amount will be added. Current owners will be able to refresh their debit card for as long as they own the vehicle. Prior owners of affected vehicles who have already sold their cars will also be reimbursed using the same formula. For more information about reimbursement and a complete list of eligible vehicles,

customers can visit www.HyundaiMPGinfo.com and www.KiaMPGinfo.com.

“As a customer-focused organization, we are fully committed to providing consumers with complete and accurate information, and deeply regret the errors were made,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO, Kia Motors America and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. “Our reimbursement program is intended to ensure that all affected Kia customers quickly receive fair compensation.”

Europe Sweden Volvo Car Corporation cuts electric car recharging time to 1.5 hours Volvo is testing a new fast-charger for electric cars that cuts recharging time to an mere 1.5 hours. The fast-charger operates six times faster than today’s onboard devices.

The new charger will be installed and evaluated in a number of Volvo C30 Electric cars. The 22 kW fastcharger is the world’s first charger that operates on a three-phase supply and is small enough to be fitted in an electric car. It offers the car owner two possibilities: using a three-phase outlet with 32A gives an 80 km range in 30 minutes. A full charge takes 1.5 hours; plugging into an ordinary single-phase 230 V household outlet gives a charging time of 8-10 hours, depending on the available current.

Asia Bangladesh / India Tata Motors enters Bangladesh’s new car market Tata Motors made its entry in the Bangladesh new car market, introducing two sedans and a hatchback.

They are the Tata Indigo eCS, India’s most fuel-efficient compact sedan, the Tata Indigo Manza, a luxury sedan, and the Tata Indica Vista hatchback, with class defining space. The Manza and the Vista are born out of Tata Motors’ new car platform.

Speaking on the introduction of the passenger cars in

Bangladesh, Mr. Karl Slym, Managing Director, Tata Motors, said, “We are happy and honoured to enter Bangladesh with our passenger cars. Our 40-year association with Bangladesh has given us an insight into the aspiration of the country’s motorists. They will be central to our business - we will delight them with the performance of our cars and the comfort and excellence of our service, and establish ourselves as we have in commercial vehicles since 1972.”

Tata Motors has a 40-year heritage in Bangladesh, having introduced its buses in 1972. There are about 53,000 Tata commercial vehicles on Bangladesh roads.

The company is today the market leader with a 70% market share. To begin with, they will be available in Dhaka with one showroom. By 2013, three other cities will be covered, with a showroom each.

Europe Germany Urban Driving Experience Challenge winner announced

The BMW Group and Local Motors announce the winners of their first collaborative design and development project – the Urban Driving Experience Challenge.

The challenge asked the Local Motors community of nearly 30,000 designers, engineers, fabricators and enthusiasts to define the future premium vehicle features and functions that will define the urban driving experience in the year 2025. Nearly 3,500 individual design boards had been submitted in support of just over 400 innovative feature concepts.

The entries represent a wide range of concepts including interior design, connectivity, the future of car sharing

and the application of new technologies, among others.

First place was awarded to Anthony Franze from Adelaide, Australia for his winning design, the premium vehicle sharing club BMW Reward Me. Anthony Franze received a $7,500 cash prize and a trip to Munich, Germany to meet with Managing Director of BMW Group Research and Technology Dr. Christoph Grote.

Second and third place prizes of $2,500 and $1,500, respectively, were awarded to Kevin Lo of Washington, USA for his concept BMW Vision BreatheFree, and to Guillaume Coolen, from Tokyo, Japan, for his BMW Eye-3.

Europe Italy / United Kingdom

GLOBAL NEWS

Maserati engine’s sound becomes music Italian sports car maker Maserati and British highend audio specialist Bowers & Wilkins announced in September a brand partnership that will produce a new high-performance car sound system that will be available exclusively in Maserati cars from 2013.

“Seven Notes” is the first joint project to have been completed. The seven distinct notes produced by all Maserati car engines have been used to create a series of exclusive tracks, composed and recorded by musician and producer Howie B (U2, Björk) at Abbey Road Studios in London. These tracks are freely available in high-definition audio from www. sevennotes.com Along with the new car-audio system, the Maserati/ Bowers & Wilkins partnership will produce a range of limited edition co-branded audio products, including high-performance loudspeakers and headphones.

Asia / Europe China / Germany Porsche to open Experience Centre in Shanghai To be established adjacent to the Shanghai International Circuit, the Porsche Experience Centre in Shanghai will become the first Experience Centre in China and in all of Asia, joining an exclusive group of other Porsche Experience Centres in Leipzig, Germany and Silverstone, England. The innovative facility will offer Porsche customers and enthusiasts from across the country the opportunity to discover the pleasure of driving and to hone their skills on the track by experiencing the full range of premium Porsche cars. With construction scheduled to be completed by late next year, Porsche targets to open the Centre by early 2014.

Europe United Kingdom

World Record: 28 people in one MINI! Two Guinness World Records™ were acheived by the Tower of London, for the number of people inside both a classic Mini and a 2012 MINI! 28 flexible ladies (a team of gym members from East Sussex) crammed their way into the MINI Hatch as part of the eighth annual Guinness World Records day. The team broke their own previous record of 27 people, which they set in Eastbourne in 2011.

The ladies made full use of every inch of space available in the car, including the dashboard, the footwells and they even managed to squeeze four people in the boot.

As soon as they celebrated their first record the ladies took off to attempt the second one, where by squeezing a staggering 23 ladies into a classic Mini, they managed to beat the previous record by two people.

North America United States car2go carsharing debuts in Seattle

GLOBAL NEWS

car2go North America, LLC will start its carsharing service in Seattle on Dec. 19 by introducing a network of 330 car2go edition smart fortwo vehicles that will be available for shared use 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Members have unlimited access to car2go 24 hours a day, seven days a week; they can use car2go with or without a reservation, for as long as they would like, without having to commit to a mandatory return time or location.

Members will be able to locate a car via a smartphone app, via the car2go vehicle finder on the car2go website, by calling the customer call center, or simply by finding an available car on the street, anywhere within the 42-square-mile car2go Home Area, where members can pick up or drop off a car.

When the member is finished using the vehicle, he or she can park at any city non-restricted metered or un-metered spaces with time limits of two hours or greater, or on-street in any residential neighborhood within the car2go Home Area.

Parking, fuel, insurance and maintenance are included at no additional cost.

Members can use car2go by the minute, and they pay only for the time they use the vehicle, with discounted rates for hourly and daily use.

Europe Germany / Finland MINI attempts World Records for Christmas A convoy of MINIs is travelling to Rovaniemi (Finland) located at the Arctic Circle to bring Santa Claus Christmas letters written by children and adults from all over the world. At the same time, MINI will be competing for the Official Guinness World Records attempt by trying to assemble the longest wishlist to Santa Claus.

On Saturday 24th November, the MINI family left BMW Group Headquarters in Munich and are driving “one way” to Rovaniemi.

The journey covers more than 3000 km, passing through some of the most beautiful European cities such as Copenhagen and Stockholm.

The MINIs participating in this road trip are the MINI Clubman with its typically generous cargo capacity, the MINI Countryman with its excellent off-road qualities, the MINI Hatchback, the master of go-kart feeling, the MINI Coupe with its superior driving dynamics, the MINI Roadster for maximum driving fun and the MINI Cabrio, which offers that genuine topless experience.

Europe Germany Joint venture aims at connecting public charging infrastructures in Europe Hubject GmbH, is a joint venture formed by the BMW Group, Bosch, Daimler, EnBW, RWE and Siemens, presents to industry experts the first commercial portfolio of solutions aimed at connecting public charging infrastructures in Europe. Operating a business and data platform the company offers providers of emobility services the opportunity to expand their product offering to include eRoaming. This service will allow drivers of electric vehicles to access all public chargepoints of the emerging European network under a single provider’s contract. Providing services that are tailor-made to satisfy the different needs of the players active in the emerging market, Hubject delivers solutions for emobility providers (e.g. carsharing organisations or car electricity suppliers), operators of

charging infrastructure and providers of geographical data. End users can identify infrastructure that allows for uncomplicated charging through the compatibility label on each charging station of the network. The label contains a standardised QR code, which allows the user to initiate and terminate each charging transaction via the scanning functionality of a smartphone app.

Europe Italy Fiat Panda becomes a Monster Truck If the Fiat city-car, thanks to the latest digital technology employed by animated films, ‘transformed’ first into a nippy scooter and then a spacious light cargo aircraft in the first commercials, now, to demonstrate the off-road performance of the new Panda 4×4, Fiat has chosen to adopt set-design techniques from the cinema together with automotive tuning. And that’s how the Panda Monster Truck was created, a prototype built by Fiat in collaboration with Mercurio Cinematografica, set designer Andrea Faini and the Fabio Gementi Workshop.

The Monster Truck version combines a Panda 4×4 with a Jeep CJ7 4200 floor panel and features road tractor wheels with “High Speed” tyres, 150 centimetres in diameter and 50 cm wide, fitted with specially turned solid steel flanges. The final result is a ‘bigfoot’ Panda, towering at 390 centimetres (‘wither height’), 380 cm long and 250 cm wide. It took just over two weeks of work to build it, paying the utmost care when connecting the steering system, clutch, accelerator and brakes between the two cars.

Fully operational, the Fiat Panda Monster Truck will star in the coming TV commercial at the start of 2013.

Opel ADAM

FOCUS

UNLIMITED INDIVIDUALIZATION POTENTIAL

© Pictures courtesy of GM Company

With the all-new ADAM, Opel is entering the growing lifestyle A-segment. Short and strongbacked, ADAM is perfect for urban environments. Its driving dynamics, however, also shine outside the city thanks to chassis and steering settings that focus on fun and agility. Inside its cabin, it offers seating for four people who benefit from a premium-inspired atmosphere and a high degree of roominess unusual for a small car.

Measuring almost 3.70 meters in length (1.72 meters width excl. mirrors), the Opel ADAM is an agile and funky threedoor. With a range of three efficient engines and a chassis geared towards agile driving dynamics, the Opel ADAM is not just at home on city streets but also on country roads.

The ADAM will initially be offered with three gasoline engines (1.2 lt. 51kW/70 hp; 1.4 lt. 64 kW/87 hp and 1.4 lt. 74/100 hp) combined with a five-speed manual transmission, enabling top speeds of up to 185 km/h. All powertrains are available with an ecoFLEX technology pack including fuelsaving Start/Stop technology. Fuel consumption is as low as 5.0 l/100 km, with CO2 as little as 118 g/km making the ADAM an efficient and economical urban car.

The ADAM benefits from an agile and crisp chassis with a compact wheelbase of 2311 mm. It is combined with a surprising, wide tread of 1485 mm in the front and 1478 mm in the rear which give the ADAM its solid stance on the road and ensure excellent stability. MacPherson struts have been fitted to the front axle. The rear axle features a torsion beam compound crank design. Wheel sizes range from 15” to 18”, and cars that are specified with 17” or 18“ rims come standard with a more responsive Sports chassis and steering feeling. The sports chassis is also offered with 16” wheels. The ADAM’s Electrical Power Steering (EPS) includes a dedicated CITY mode which at the flick of a switch increases power assistance at lower speeds - particularly useful for maneuvering. A second generation Park Assist system that identifies parking spaces and automatically parks the car is introduced in the Opel ADAM and enhances its urban vocation.

Bold exterior with iconic silhouette ADAM introduces Opel’s award-winning design philosophy of “sculptural artistry meets German precision” to the fashion-led A-segment. This new Opel car’s striking and unique “floating” roof which is visually disconnected from the body allows a perfect execution of a two-tone color combination. The car’s name badge is – unlike with most other cars – placed at the end of the chrome “signature” window molding on the rear pillar, which adds to its unique appeal. In the wide front grille, the ADAM has been given the new wing-shaped chrome bar with the embossed Opel emblem as introduced in the new Astra line-up. On the flanks typically sculpted Opel design cues such as the blade in the lower door and the characteristic crisp “shock wave” around the door handles are reminiscent of the Astra GTC. For the first time in the A-segment, both the headlamps and the taillights are available with state-of-the art energy-saving LED technology.

The interior design delivers what ADAM’s upmarket exterior promises: style and premium inspired ambience in a remarkably spacious environment for a small car with sculpted, harmonious surfaces and graceful flowing lines.

FOCUS - OPEL ADAM

The new ADAM-exclusive round, chronograph-style instruments and chrome bezeled switches convey an aura of sporty precision.

Virtually no ADAM looks like the other Thanks to a wide range of exterior colors, a broad choice of wheel designs plus many interior trim options including different décor panels, ambient lighting packages and an array of headliners, the ADAM is Opel’s new champion of personalization. So virtually no ADAM looks like the other, making every car just unique. Instead of offering a conventional trim hierarchy, the ADAM breaks new ground with 3 different trim worlds: JAM , GLAM and SLAM. ADAM JAM is bold and funky, appealing to the very fashion conscious customer out there; ADAM GLAM is elegant and stylish, targeting the people with refined tastes; and ADAM SLAM is quite masculine, sporty and streetwise. On the next level of customization, owners can choose from 3 option packs for each of the 3 trim worlds: so, ADAM JAM, ADAM GLAM and ADAM SLAM can all be further sharpened and tailored to individual tastes with the “Two

Tone” black and white pack, the flamboyant “Twisted” pack or the bold “Extreme” pack. On the exterior, customers can also choose from a spectrum of 12 body colors.

CLIP “The Opel ADAM captures the spirit of modern urban youth and brings a great sense of freedom onto the street. It’s fun, it can be individualized like no other car and blends attitude with a joyful agility. ADAM definitely is the car for all young and young-at-heart drivers - says Opel deputy chairman of the management board, Dr. Thomas Sedran - and as ADAM combines all this emotional appeal with the best of German engineering and quality, it will play an important role in our growth plan across Europe.”

CLIP Later on, a small gasoline engine of a totally new generation will also be offered in the Opel ADAM, featuring direct injection and turbocharging for further enhanced efficiency and performance.

This new engine will be combined with an all-new generation six-speed manual transmission.

CLIP

FOCUS - OPEL ADAM

On the exterior, customers can choose from a spectrum of 12 body colors which names evoke cultural references movie lovers will immediately be familiar with – such as “I’ll be Black”, “Papa don’t Peach”, “Purple Fiction”, “James Blonde”, “Saturday White fever” and “Buzz Lightgreen”.

ADAM’s roof can also be given the same color as the body.

However, for a more contrasting effect, three roof colors can be combined with any body color: the glossy “I’ll be black”, the light cream “White my Fire” and the dark and rich “Men in Brown”. Further personalization can be brought by three different external decal packages (ADAM JAM Splat, ADAM GLAM Fly and ADAM SLAM Stripes) that are applied to mirrors and other parts of the car, for example the sides and rear. In total the ADAM offers 31 different wheel designs and colors with sizes ranging from 15” to 18”. Even after the customer has taken delivery of the ADAM, some 18” wheels featuring completely new color clips can be personalized even further. Different sets of colored clips are available that are easily clipped onto the five spokes of the rim. Colors can be individually combined according to individual tastes.

Inside the cabin there is also a wealth of personalization possibilities, starting with the decoration panels on the dashboard and the doors that can be ordered in about a dozen different painted colors, 6 different foil colors with decorative patterns and 2 different backlit foils. New replacement panels can be ordered separately so that the car can constantly be personalized and tailored to the changing tastes of the owner - or to changing owners. Two of these decors can be backlit via LEDs. Inside of the cabin the roof can also be personalized to suit every taste ranging from a large sunroof that fills the ADAM with natural light to the starlight headliner illuminated by more than 60 LED lights creating the impression of a starry night sky. In addition, 3 different printed motif headliners with clouds, autumn leaves or checker board graphics can also be ordered.

IntelliLink brings home and friends into the car IntelliLink, Opel’s very latest infotainment system, has its debut in the ADAM, making it one of the best connected cars on the market. IntelliLink offers drivers a high degree of convenience and flexibility by bringing owner’s smartphone capabilities into the vehicle. In that sense the IntelliLink

OPEL ADAM 1.2/1.2 ecoFLEX TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

OPEL ADAM 1.4/1.4 ecoFLEX TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Power output

4-­cyl. petrol engine EURO 5 Displacement -­1229 cm3 51 kW (70 hp)/5600 rpm Max. torque -­115 Nm/4000 rpm

Engine Power output

4-­cyl. petrol engine EURO 5 Displacement -­1398 cm3 74 kW (100 hp)/6000 rpm Max. torque -­130 Nm/4000 rpm

PERFORMANCE

Acceleration Max speed

PERFORMANCE

Acceleration Max speed

0-­100 km/h - 14.9 s 165 km/h

(5- speed manual gearbox)

0-­100 km/h - 11.5 s 185 km/h

FUEL CONSUMPTION (l / 100 km) 1.2 (51 kW) 7.1 (urban), 4.2 (extra-­urban), 5.3 (combined) 1.2 ecoFLEX (51 kW) 6.5 (urban), 4.2 (extra-­urban), 5.0 (combined)

FUEL CONSUMPTION (l / 100 km) 1.4 (74 kW) 7.3 (urban), 4.4 (extra-­urban), 5.5 (combined) 1.4 ecoFLEX (74 kW) 6.6 (urban), 4.2 (extra-­urban), 5.1 (combined)

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (mm) Lenght - 3698 Width - 1966 (incl. mirrors) Height - 1484 (empty) Wheelbase - 2311 Track front - 1472 Track rear - 1464

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS (mm) Lenght - 3698 Width - 1966 (incl. mirrors) Height - 1484 (empty) Wheelbase - 2311 Track front - 1472 Track rear - 1464

WEIGHTS (kg) Unladen weight -­1455 Perm. front axle load -­805

WEIGHTS (kg) Unladen weight -­1465 Perm. front axle load -­805

CAPACITIES

Payload -­369 Perm. rear axle load -­680

Fuel tank -­38l

CAPACITIES

Payload -­345 Perm. rear axle load -­690

Fuel tank -­38l

CLIP Opel is returning to motor racing in the form of an internationally oriented rally program with the new Opel ADAM and a circuit for the new Astra OPC that focuses on Germany. “These new motorsports activities play an important role in the strategic realignment of the company; they are a fundamental element of our brand profile.” says Dr. Thomas Sedran, Opel’s Deputy CEO. Especially in grassroots,

FOCUS - OPEL ADAM

CLIP Prices for the ADAM start at 11,500 euro (Germany, including VAT) for the entry-level version with a 51 kW/70 hp 1.2 litre gasoline engine. The many different options to individualize the car further are kept quite affordable. For example, the unique starlight headliner complete with more than 60 LED lights re-creates a starlit sky at night and can be ordered for as little as 380 euro.

popular sports, the Ruesselsheim carmaker can look back on a long and successful tradition.

The aim of the company is to create a new competition that appeals to customers which is both technically sophisticated and reasonably priced, while at the same time providing a platform for young ambitious drivers to continuously develop their talent.

infotainment experience brings the owner’s personal environment, home, friends and favorite entertainment into the car. The Opel IntelliLink infotainment system brings content from the smartphone onto the seven-inch, high resolution, full color touch-screen display. Connectivity is provided via USB or Bluetooth for mass storage devices, including MP3 players, iPod, iPad, etc. So the ADAM driver can for instance select his or her personal soundtrack anytime and anywhere. Selected apps that are compatible for smartphones using both Android and Apple iOS operating systems can be downloaded from the internet. For example, a navigation system app will be made available which offers maps for Western and Eastern Europe. The app always remains on the phone and the ADAM owner will be able to continue his journey on foot or by bike using the navigation system. The AM/FM double radio tuner can be combined with DAB digital radio offering a broad choice of listening.

And for those who want the ultimate sound experience in their ADAM, an Infinity sound system with eight speakers is available.

CLIP FlexFix bike carrier This clever device is exclusive to Opel and is integrated in the rear bumper and is therefore always available. It is very easy to use and does not require any tools or additional devices. When it is not in use it disappears almost invisibly like a drawer in the rear bumper.

With the Opel ADAM the lockable system can take a bike weighing up to 30 kilograms so that even e-bikes can be transported. An optional clip-on adaptor ensures that a second bike weighing up to 20 kilograms can be carried.

In that sense FlexFix becomes a flexible mobility solution that can be shared by two people.

FOCUS

MAHINDRA XUV500 CHEETAH INSPIRED

Designed and developed in house by Mahindra, the XUV5OO is Mahindra’s first global SUV platform, with significant inputs in styling and development from customers across the globe.

Poised to pounce…

This seven-seat SUV is really surprising in terms of style, performance, technology, safety and comfort, providing customers a truly complete driving experience. Bold and glorious lines that trace the world’s most agile animal in action, namely the cheetah, contribute to the elegant styling and visual impact - an intimidating jawlike honeycomb grill, the unique paw styled vertical door handles and muscular wheel arches - all add to what seems to be the vehicle’s innate desire to pounce!

Furthermore, the chiselled, aerodynamic body of the Mahindra XUV5OO with static-bending projector headlamps and LED parking lamps, racing-inspired twin exhausts, integrated bumpers and stylish, lightweight alloy wheels all add to the SUV’s stature, making the XUV5OO a striking presence on road.

A monocoque construction found only in the modern SUVs around the world is the very essence of the XUV5OO uncompromised driving dynamics. The result is an excellent power to weight ratio, a good handling and undiluted driving pleasure.

The XUV5OO is available in seven attractive shades to suit a variety of tastes. These include Satin White, Tuscan Red, Opulent Purple, Amazon Green, Moondust Silver, Volcano Black and Dolphin Grey.

Physics-defying agility The XUV5OO is powered by a state-of-the-art 2.2litre mHawk diesel engine which delivers a power-packed 140bhp with 330Nm torque and which meets strict Euro V emission norms. The 2.2litre engine is meshed with a 6-speed transmission and the 5th generation Variable Geometry Turbocharger which takes the XUV5OO from 0-60kmph in a mere 5.4 seconds. Despite all this unadulterated power, the XUV5OO gives you up to 15.1 kms per litre (ARAI-certified).

The XUV 5OO is available with a 4-Wheel Drive system that emphasizes its go-anywhere capability. The new all-wheel drive of the new Mahindra XUV500 combines the typical advantages of front-wheel drive (stability under acceleration, low fuel consumption and noise) to those of the four-wheel drive. It uses in fact an electronically controlled differential ensuring in all situations an optimal torque distribution between front and rear axles. The vehicle normally uses only the front wheels, but if necessary it also automatically inserts the rear wheels drive. The driver can select at any time the four-wheel drive by simply pushing a button on the console. The electronic traction control is standard on the new Mahindra XUV500. A 2-Wheel Drive version is also on offer.

A high torque at low engine revs allows the vehicle to handle city traffic with ease, while the Dual Mass Flywheel ensures rattle-free driving pleasure. The advanced Micro Hybrid Technology helps conserve both fuel and nature.

The XUV5OO sporty suspension also affords drivers a lot of room for fun. In fact, the XUV5OO boasts a suspension system of McPherson struts up front and the independent multi-link suspension in the rear.

FOCUS - MAHINDRA XUV500

Generation Next Technology integrated today A first-in-class, 6-inch LCD touchscreen on the dash begs for your attention. It’s the headquarters of the highly sophisticated touch screen infotainment system with DVD player, CD/MP3, FM, Blue Sense technology, full i-pod connectivity and 6 speakers. The impressive speakers with built-in tweeters recreate the experience of an original studio recording for all audiophiles, reminding the passengers of a high-end home theatre surround sound set-up.

The the XUV5OO boasts of a fully loaded GPS navigation system, which covers over 1.5 million kilometres of road across 1200 cities with a turnby-turn voice guidance system in eight regional (in its “domestic” version) languages. The system also gives the driver access to over 5 million touch points of interest including restaurants, ATMs, fuel pumps and movie theatres.

A full-fledged, integrated Driver Information System diligently reports to you with all the vital information about the car. It tells you how far the existing amount of fuel can take you. It monitors the air pressure and temperature of each tyre. It even controls the cabin temperature for you.

The intellipark reverse park assist system has a visual prompt on the LCD screen which shows you the distance between the rear bumper and any object behind your vehicle.

The XUV5OO steering wheel features Voice Commands, Cruise and Audio Controls for your convenience and safety, so you can control the infotainment system without taking your hands off the steering wheel through Voice Commands. Steering-mounted controls also allow you to control your Bluetooth-enabled

mobile phone through the infotainment system in the XUV5OO using Blue Sense technology.

Cruise Control makes driving stress and fatiguefree, especially on long highway drives and for more intelligent features, there are Smart Rain and Light sensors in the XUV5OO, which activate the wipers and headlamps automatically whenever external conditions demand.

CLIP The XUV5OO price range in India starts at (exshowroom Jaipur) Rs. 11.80 Lacs for the W6 model and Rs. 13.29 Lacs for the W8 2WD model.

In Europe the XUV 5OO is priced competitively at 22,900 euros for the 2WD version, with the 4WD version being priced at 24,900 euros (launch-offer for a limited period).

FOCUS - MAHINDRA XUV500

Safety first Safety is a priority for Mahindra and this new SUV is a concrete confirmation. At the heart of this defense is the Electronic Stability Program (ESP). The ESP constantly monitors the movement and direction of the car. When it detects loss of control, brakes are automatically applied and torque to the relevant wheel is reduced till vehicle stability is restored. Rollover Mitigation in the XUV5OO closely monitors a range of parameters and identifies potentially dangerous driving conditions that could lead to the vehicle rolling over. Well before the situation becomes threatening, it causes the ESP system to intervene and control the vehicle speed, thereby restoring stability.

The XUV5OO is well equipped to keep you out of harm’s way. 6 airbags (front, side and curtain airbags) cocoon you. As if that wasn’t enough, the vehicle’s body also comes with side impact beams and thoughtfully located crumple zones.

ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) reduces braking distance substantially and the Hydraulic Brake Assist system applies maximum braking force in the shortest possible time during emergency braking, thus aiding you in bringing the vehicle to a standstill quicker.

Hill Descent Control identifies steep inclines and engages itself to assist the vehicle down the slope with caution while Hill Hold Control prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting from standstill on an incline.

FOCUS - MAHINDRA XUV500

A true driver’s delight as well A high calibre, twin-pod instrument cluster with seriously sporty 3D designs and an exquisite waterfall style central bezel combine to give you the feel of a highly evolved piece of machinery. The driver’s seat is ergonomically designed with 8 different adjustments including height and complete lumbar support adjust.

Independent AC vents with fully automatic climate control double HVAC cools all corners of this spacious SUV with individual controls for each passenger.

The car’s stylish exterior is aptly complemented by the elegantly crafted two tone pure leather interiors, replete with intuitively placed storage units, which include a cool box and an inbuilt laptop holder.

The steering wheel of the XUV5OO has been designed with an enhanced capacity to control various features.

Its tilt and telescopic adjustment allows personalisation to suit your needs.

Individual reading lamps for each passenger and conveniently placed laptop and mobile charging points in each seating row, together with the concealed lounge lighting, add to the sheer exclusivity that is the Mahindra XUV5OO. Another useful feature is the ability of the last two rows of seating to completely fold away, transforming the XUV5OO into the perfect vacation vehicle with tonnes of space.

CLIP Mahindra has had a presence in Europe since 2002 and sells its vehicles in Italy, Spain, Greece, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Macedonia & Slovakia. In the future Mahindra Europe is planning to expand into other European countries such as the UK, France, Poland, the Czech Republic and Romania with new product launches like the Genio Pickup & Quanto. The company is also planning to introduce its all-new Electric Vehicle, the Mahindra Reva NXR in Europe during 2013.

CLIP The Mahindra Group focuses on enabling people to rise. Mahindra operates in the key industries that drive economic growth, enjoying a leadership position in tractors, utility vehicles, information technology and vacation ownership. Mahindra has a presence in the automotive industry, agribusiness, aerospace, components, consulting services, defence, energy, financial services, industrial equipment, logistics, real estate, retail, steel and two wheelers. A USD 15.4 billion multinational group based in Mumbai, India, Mahindra employs more than 144,000 people in over 100 countries.

In 2011, Mahindra featured on the Forbes Global 2000 list, a listing of the biggest and most powerful listed companies in the world. Dun & Bradstreet also ranked Mahindra at No. 1 in the automobile sector in its list of India’s Top 500 Companies. In 2010, Mahindra featured in the Credit Suisse Great Brands of Tomorrow. In 2011, Mahindra acquired a majority stake in Korea’s SsangYong Motor Company.

MAHINDRA XUV500 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE - Type

Max Gross Power Max Gross Torque

mHawk140, Direct injection diesel engine, Variable Geometry Turbo charger (VGT) Cubic Capacity - 2179 cc 140 Bhp(103kW) @ 3750 rpm 330 Nm @1600-2800rpm

VEHICLE DIMENSIONS Wheelbase - mm 2700 Overall length - mm 4585

Overall width - mm 1890 Overall height - mm 1785

Tyre Gear box Brakes

P235/65 R17, Radial Tubeless 6 speed synchromesh manual All Disc & Caliper type

SUSPENSION Front Rear

McPherson type with anti-roll bar Multilink type with anti-roll bar

Fuel tank capacity Turning Circle Radius Weight

70 Litres 5.6 m GROSS VEHICLE 2450 Kg

PERFORMANCE 0/60 kmh 12.5 seconds Top speed

5.4 seconds 0/100 kmh 175 kmh

ECONOMY

15.1 KM per Litre (as per ARAI test)

MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH

THE DUEL

FERRARI F12BERLINETTA 2013 FORD SHELBY GT500

VS

MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH - FERRARI F12BERLINETTA VS 2013 FORD SHELBY GT500

During the 1963 spring season Ferrari and Ford were really close to signing a deal that could have changed the history of GT cars and the whole motorsport.

At the very last minute of that negotiation Mr. Enzo Ferrari realized that the independence of his little company was more important of the great industrial future that Ford could assure… and didn’t sign the deal. From that moment (or due to that decision) Ford and Ferrari started a proud duel that characterized the Endurance races of the 60s, and was the “constant” of many Le Mans 24 Hours.

This “duel” is still actual on the GT road cars of today. It is once again the Italian “elegance” vs the American “muscles”, once again Ferrari vs Ford

Ferrari F12berlinetta

2013 Ford Shelby GT500

The F12berlinetta is the most powerful and highperformance road-going Ferrari ever. With a Fiorano lap time of just 1’23’’, 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.1 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 8.5 s, the F12berlinetta is the most high-performance road car in Ferrari history.

Sporting a new V12 engine, it is built around highly evolved transaxle architecture and features state-ofthe-art components and control systems.

The F12berlinetta’s wheelbase is shorter and its engine, dashboard and seats are lower in the chassis. A new suspension and gearbox layout helped reduce the car’s rear volume. The result is a shorter, lower and narrower car than the previous V12 coupé. The F12berlinetta boasts ideal weight distribution (54% over the rear axle) as well as a lower centre of gravity that is further back in the chassis.

The F12berlinetta’s spaceframe chassis and bodyshell are completely new. Scaglietti, renowned for its expertise in aluminium materials and construction, designed an all-new spaceframe chassis and bodyshell using 12 different kinds of alloys. This has allowed the car’s overall weight to be kept to just 1525 kg and has maximised its performance efficiency with torsional rigidity boosted by 20 per cent.

The new, 200-bar direct-injection 6262cc 65° V12 engine delivers unprecedented performance for a naturally-aspirated 12-cylinder. It punches out a maximum of 740 CV at 8250 rpm, with a specific power output of 118 CV/l and maximum revs of 8700 rpm, record figures for this type of engine. Responsiveness and strong pick-up is guaranteed by maximum torque of 690 Nm, 80 per cent of which is readily available at 2500 rpm. Exceptional progress has also been made in terms of fuel consumption and emissions which have been cut by 30 per cent up to 15/l 100 km and 350 g/ km of CO2 respectively.

The fruit of the collaboration between the Ferrari Styling Centre and Pininfarina is the F12berlinetta harmonious and balanced proportions. It is a truly original, innovative coupé with all of the signature features of an authentic Ferrari 12-cylinder. Clothed in sleek, aggressive lines, it offers superb occupant space and comfort despite its relatively compact dimensions. Aerodynamics play a major role, and a host of innovative solutions have been discreetly integrated in the F12berlinetta’s styling.

These include the Aero Bridge which, in a first, uses the bonnet to generate downforce, and Active Brake

“We encapsulated every aspect of performance in this car – said Hermann Salenbauch, director of Advanced Product Creation – whether it’s 0-60 mph, top speed, racetrack or quarter-mile times. Beyond that, the daily driver also will find this car perfectly fits his or her needs.” The ultimate Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 raises the bar high on performance with the introduction of the new 2013 model that goes on sale next year delivering 650 horsepower and a top speed of more than 200 mph.

The 5.8-litre V8 aluminum-block engine produces 650 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque. The 3,850-pound car also stays exempt from the gas-guzzler tax.

Nearly every part of the powertrain has been optimized for producing the additional horsepower, including a new supercharger, new cross-drilled block and heads, updated camshaft profiles, a new carbon fiber driveshaft and upgraded clutch, transmission and axle.

A larger, more-efficient supercharger flowing more air through the engine is key to helping produce the massive 650 horsepower. The new TVS series 2300 creates 2.3 litres of displacement and is a unique design to the 5.8-litre engine. The entire cooling system has been significantly updated on the new 5.8-litre engine.

It now includes a larger cooling fan, fan shroud with high-speed pressure-relief doors, a more efficient charge air cooler, a higher-flow intercooler pump and an intercooler heat exchanger with volume increased 36 percent.

Nearly every gear on the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 was revised to manage the torque and use more of the power in a way that makes it more driver-friendly. The clutch has increased torque and rpm capacity and uses a dual-disc design. Other keys for improved traction management include Torsen limited-slip differential: when customers order the optional Performance Package, they will get a Torsen limited-slip differential that helps the rear suspension deliver maximum torque and traction better and longer under track conditions.

A new launch control system lets drivers set the desired launch rpm depending on tire temperature, street surface or other conditions. Unique to SVT’s launch control is that it is integrated with both the engine control and traction control. A new Brembo brake system offers drivers enhanced stopping power to help keep their car under control, both on the road and the track. New six-piston calipers in front along with larger

The most high performance Ferrari ever

Where no Mustang has gone before

MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH - FERRARI F12BERLINETTA VS 2013 FORD SHELBY GT500

Cooling, a system that opens guide vanes to the brake cooling ducts only at high operating temperatures. The result of these interventions is that the F12berlinetta has the highest overall aerodynamic efficiency of any Ferrari ever built with downforce of 123 kg at 200 km/h and a Cd of just 0.299.

The F12berlinetta’s technical specifications are completed by the very latest version of the carbonceramic braking system (CCM3), a further evolution of the magnetorheological suspension (SCM-E) and the latest development in electronic vehicle control systems (E-diff, ESC, F1-Trac, and high-performance ABS).

The car’s Frau leather interior is completely new. It highlights the balance of advanced technology – in the form of the Human-Machine Interface which places all controls within easy reach of the driver – and sophisticated, handcrafted detailing, both of which are intrinsic to Ferrari’s DNA.

front and rear rotors help improve brake fade. New brake pads that are more aggressive also help the car achieve high deceleration and further robustness for more driver confidence.

Significant aerodynamic work was done on the new Shelby GT500 to ensure the car has proper downforce for optimum performance at all speeds. The front fascia and splitters were modified to handle the extreme loads at 200 mph, resulting in a car that tracks more securely and feels more planted to the road at higher speeds. It offers 33 percent more effective aero loading at 160 mph compared to the 2011 model.

The new Shelby GT500’s driving dynamics have been improved, now working in concert with all the new content on the car. Handling, all AdvanceTrac settings and steering assist levels within selectable steering have been tuned to account for the updated content.

The previously available unique traction control system and electronic stability control settings help drivers achieve maximum performance on both the street and the track. Both systems can be completely disabled in controlled track situations where maximum driver skill is utilized, or fully engaged for maximum safety during normal driving or in less-than-ideal traction conditions. Intermediate sport mode allows drivers to push their cars hard at the track without completely disabling the safety systems, permitting more aggressive driving before the traction control and electronic stability control intervene.

Sometimes Ford Shelby GT500 customers want to enjoy their car on surface streets. Other times they just want to let loose on the track. Two new optional packages on the 2013 model give them the choice.

Available as part of the optional Performance Package, SVT-designed Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers are accessed on the dash with a simple push of a button.

Normal mode gives customers a more comfortable ride over road irregularities. Sport mode is all about performance, delivering improved response time on the track and less body roll while cornering and pitch under braking. The Torsen limited-slip differential also comes with the Performance Package.

Enthusiasts can upgrade their Performance Package with an additional Track Package for all-out performance. The option comes with an external engine oil cooler, rear differential cooler and transmission cooler for further durability. The coolers play an essential role in preventing crucial components from overheating under high-speed conditions.

CLIP Readers in 21 countries of one of Europe’s most prestigious car magazines, Auto Bild, have voted the Ferrari F12berlinetta as Europe’s best-looking car.

The fastest, most powerful Ferrari of all time raced ahead of its 144 competitors to take the overall Auto Bild Design Award as well as its category, a compelling statement on the design of Ferrari’s new V12- engined sports car. In 2012 Ferrari F12berlinetta has received another important award from The Sunday Times Driving, the motoring section of the influential British newspaper. This time the Italian GT car takes the honours as the “Best Supercar and Luxury Car” in the second of two special edition issues celebrating the Top 100 Cars.

Finally this fantastic car has been crowned “Supercar of the Year 2012” by BBC Top Gear magazine.

F12berlinetta pictures and video courtesy of Ferrari s.p.a.

MISS(ES) OF THE MONTH - FERRARI F12BERLINETTA VS 2013 FORD SHELBY GT500

FERRARI F12berlinetta

2013 FORD SHELBY GT500

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Engine:

6.262 litre - V12 65°

Horsepower: Torque: Injection: Driveline:

545 kW / 740 hp @ 8250 rpm 690 Nm @ 6000 rpm direct injection rear-wheel drive, electronic differential, F1 traction control

Transmission: Max Engine Speed: Brake system:

Wheels & tires:

F1 dual-clutch 7-speed 8700 rpm EBD, ABS; front: 398 x 223 x 38 mm; rear: 360 x 233 x 32 front 255/35 ZR 20 9.5J; rear 315/35 ZR 20 11.5J

Engine:

Horsepower: Torque: Injection: Driveline:

Clutch: Transmission: Front suspension:

Rear suspension:

Brake system:

Wheels & tires:

Max Speed: over 340 km/h (211 mph) Average Fuel Consumption l / 100km: 15 Acceleration 0-100 km/h (62 mph): 3.1 seconds CO2 emission g/km: 350 Length: Width: Height: Wheelbase: Track front / rear: Weight: Fuel tank capacity:

4.618 m 1.942 m 1.273 m 2.720 m 1.665 / 1.618 m 1630 kg 92 l

5.8 litre - V10 Number of valves per cylinder: 4 662 hp @ 6500 rpm 631 lb-ft / 855 Nm @ 4000 rpm electronic return-less sequential rear-wheel drive, Torsen limited-slip diffeential, Launch control dual-disc Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual independent MacPherson strut with reverse-L lover control arm Three-link solid axle with coil springs, Panhard rod EBD, ABS; four ventilated discs; front: Brembo 15-in discs; rear: 13.8-in. discs front 9.5 x 19 forged aluminum, Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G P265/40ZR-19;

rear 9.5 x 20 forged aluminum, Goodyear Eagle® F1 SuperCar G P285/35ZR-20

Max Speed: more than 322 km/h (200 mph) Average Fuel Consumption l / 100km: 15.6 (city), 9.7 (highway) Length: 4.780 m Width: 1.877m Height: 1.391 m Wheelbase: 2.720 m Track front / rear: 1.572 / 1.587 m Curb weight: 1437 kg

CLIP Friends of Carroll Shelby, including Ford Motor Company, Shelby American, Ford Racing and many others have built a unique 2013 Shelby GT500 Cobra as a tribute to the late Carroll Shelby.

Ford is also announcing a renamed road at its Product Development Center in Dearborn, Mich., as a tribute to Shelby as well. Cobra has been the consistent performance label as Shelby worked with Ford for most of the last 60 years, and Shelby was instrumental in the creation of Ford performance vehicles including Cobras, the GT40 and Mustangs since the mid-1960s.

CLIP New Ford Shelby GT500 convertible serves as the celebratory vehicle of the 20th anniversary of Ford’s Special Vehicles Team (SVT). The fastest open-air Mustang ever with the optional Performance Package is nearly 3.5 seconds faster than the outgoing model at Sebring International Raceway. The 5.8-litre supercharged V8 with 662 horsepower, Bilstein™ electronic adjustable dampers and new Brembo™ brake system are key enablers for the car’s improved overall performance. © Ford Motor Company

THE GREEN SIDE

FISKER KARMA ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS The Fisker Karma allows drivers who appreciate style and performance to own and enjoy a car that is also environmentally conscious, one that achieves fuel consumption and emissions performance that seems to be beyond the capability of today’s conventional luxury automobiles.

With its proprietary EVer™ powertrain - inspired by a military stealth vehicle - the Fisker Karma can accelerate from 0-to-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, yet achieve the equivalent of more than 100 miles per gallon and ultralow emissions of just 169 g CO/mile (53 g CO/km in Europe) in real-world driving on an annual basis.

The Fisker Karma is a true production Electric Vehicle with extended range. Simply put, that means the Karma is driven solely and at all times by electric traction motors. An on-board range-extending gasoline engine drives a generator to power the motors as needed; there is no mechanical link between the internalcombustion engine and the drive wheels. Running on the battery alone – which can be charged in about six hours using Fisker’s available 220V wall charger (or standard convenience charger in Europe) - the Karma can cover for up to 50 miles (80 km); after that, a 175

THE GREEN SIDE - FISKER KARMA

kW generator driven by an efficient, 2.0 liter, directinjection, turbocharged gasoline engine extends the range up to an additional 250 miles (403 km). The Karma’s total range between recharge/refuel can reach up to 300 miles (483 km).

With a U.S. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $102,000 before federal tax incentives, the worldclass Fisker Karma will be competitive with more conventional luxury sedans as with incredible economy, and the ability to drive tailpipe-emission free, the Fisker Karma is offering a truly responsible choice for luxury car buyers. As one example, the

three types of interior wood trim available in the Karma are sourced from timber reclaimed from California forest fires and windstorms and raised off Michigan lake bottoms. No live growth is ever harvested for this purpose. The Fisker Karma contributes to sustainability even when parked with the world’s largest and most powerful automotive solar panel integrated into its roof, as standard. It is the only solar installation on a production vehicle that collects energy to be stored.

Enough energy can be collected by the roof over the course of a year to power the Karma for nearly 200 cost- and emission-free miles.

The Fisker Karma allows the driver to manually select allelectric or hybrid-electric drive modes on demand. The default Stealth mode maximizes efficiency, giving the car its greatest range on battery power before activating the gas engine-driven generator to sustain battery charge. In Stealth mode, the Karma can accelerate from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h). A single pull on the Karma’s left-hand steering wheel paddle engages Sport mode. Now the gasoline engine drives the generator to provide additional current that supplements that from the battery for maximum power and performance. This is enough electricity for 403 total system horsepower, allowing the Karma to accelerate from 0-to-60 mph in just 6.3 seconds and achieve a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h). Sport mode also sustains battery charge and the driver can switch back to Stealth mode at any time; this can be useful when arriving in low-emission zones, which are being designated in many cities around the world.

The Karma also features a fully-blended regenerative braking system. Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy that would otherwise be wasted as brake-rotor heat, and feeds it back into the battery. Using the right-

CLIP Fisker Automotive is a new automaker with a mission to build an innovative, eco-driven company that redefines and reshapes how the world thinks about cars. The company is leading the auto industry with its unique Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer™) powertrain technology, which combines the power and efficiency of electric drive with the range and freedom of a gasoline engine. Fisker was established in Southern California in 2007 by top auto designer Henrik Fisker and business partner Bernhard Koehler.

THE GREEN SIDE - FISKER KARMA

hand steering wheel paddle, the driver can operate Hill Mode to vary regenerative braking effect in three steps; this unique function provides an effect similar to downshifting a conventional car’s transmission to offer varied levels of speed control. Hill Mode is ideal for downhill grades and can be used to shorten braking distances as well as replenish battery charge.

In all aspects of performance, the Fisker Karma is designed to be a true driver’s car, one dedicated to the concept of Pure Driving Passion. Its proprietary, advanced aluminum space frame incorporates new levels of rigidity and strength that gives the Karma world-class ride and handling characteristics. Housing the car’s battery pack in a structural tunnel running down the car’s centerline helps endow the Karma with a very low center of gravity, and also contributes to the car’s ideal weight distribution. As a result, the Karma drives more like a midsize sport sedan than a full-size luxury sedan. In addition, the Karma does not need expensive, complex and power-robbing suspension aids to deliver flat cornering. The fourwheel independent SLA suspension, also employing aluminum components, has been specially tuned to work with the first standard 22-inch aluminum wheels on a production car.

The Karma’s space frame also forms the foundation of occupant safety helping the luxury sedan exceed global crash protection standards. Eight advanced airbags, Antilock Brakes (ABS), Traction Control

System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Panic Brake Assist (PBA) are all part of the package as Brembo 6-piston monoblock front brakes and 4-piston rear brakes work against oversize rotors to provide incredible stopping power, bolstered by regenerative braking.

The Karma’s elegant and striking exterior design incorporates the dramatic proportion that is signature Fisker style. In his previous career positions, Henrik Fisker designed some of the most iconic automobiles of the modern era, including the BMW Z8 roadster and the Aston Martin DB9 and V8 Vantage. True to Fisker Automotive’s goal of bringing the Karma concept to reality in its original form, the production car retains, and even adds to, all of the original concept’s elegant design, powerful stance and unique detailing. A sedan with coupe-like appearance, the Karma exudes a distinctly athletic presence highlighted by a long hood and short deck, a low roofline, wide stance, pronounced fenders and standard 22-inch wheels. The Karma is built on a long 124-inch (3,160mm) wheelbase, yet short overhangs keep overall length to 196.8 inches (4,998mm). The car’s 52.4-inch (1,330mm) height is as low as some sports cars, though interior room is comfortable for four.

Fisker Automotive’s Sustainable and Accountable Design philosophy is apparent throughout the Karma’s cabin, exemplified by the use of reclaimed, recycled and reusable materials as the Karma’s

water-based paint process releases no volatile organic compounds. The centerpiece of the Karma’s cabin is the Fisker Command Center, which uses an industryfirst 10.2-inch (250 mm) haptic feedback touch-screen that consolidates controls for climate, audio, standard navigation, telephone and other vehicle systems.

Operational modes are accessed via fixed icons; individual controls within each mode instantly appear on the touch screen.

Price: $102,000 - $115,000 / EUR 78,000 – EUR 87,500 - All prices exclude local taxes and any available incentives. Source: Fisker Automotive.

FISKER KARMA TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Fisker EVer™ “Electric Vehicle extended range” series hybrid dual mode powertrain 20.1kWh, 336V lithium-ion battery with Nanophosphate ™ technology 2.0L turbocharged direct injection 4-cyl engine with 175kW generator Horsepower: 300 kW / 403 hp Torque: 959 lb-ft / 1300 Nm @ 6500 rpm Driveline: rear-wheel drive, traction control Transmission: Single-ratio transmission

with limited slip differential Suspensions: Four-wheel independent, sport-tuned

aluminum SLA geometry Brake system: ESP, ABS with Panic Brake Assist;

Brembo® 4-wheel disc brakes with

regenerative braking; front 370 x 34 mm;

rear 365 x 28 mm Wheels & tires: front 22’’x8.5’’ Circuit Blade ™

aluminum wheels, 255/35/WR22;

rear 22’’x9.5’’ Circuit Blade ™

aluminum wheels, 285/35/WR22 Max Speed: 201 km/h (125 mph) Acceleration: 0-100 km/h (62 mph) - 6.3 seconds CO2 emission g/km: 53 Length: 4.998 m Width: 1.984 m Height: 1.330 m Wheelbase: 3.160 m Track front / rear: 1.692 / 1.701 m

CLIP

THE GREEN SIDE - FISKER KARMA

As Fisker global headquarters are in Anaheim, California, the assembly for the first-generation Karma has been contracted to Valmet Automotive in Finland. Valmet has built more than one million quality cars for various automotive brands since 1969.

CLIP Fisker Automotive announced plans to establish a new Technical Center in the Midwest, with South Eastern Michigan as one of the potential locations – paving the way for ongoing development of its second model line, the Fisker Atlantic. The new facility, currently planned to open in Spring 2013, will bring Fisker closer to key component suppliers and low-emission technical expertise at the heart of the American automotive industry. It will also be closer to Fisker’s intended production facility for the Atlantic in Delaware.

THE GREEN SIDE

Infinti Emerg-e INSPIRED PERFORMANCE

The Infiniti Emer g-E Concept is a highly advanced, mid-ship, electric motors powered sports car concept (the first Infiniti that has been developed in Europe) and is the ultimate expression of Infiniti’s inspired performance. It projects Infiniti’s already-advanced electric vehicle technology deep into the future with a range-extender powertrain that delivers the performance expected of sports car bearing the Infiniti badge.

THE GREEN SIDE - INFINITI EMERG-E

Infiniti Emerg-E is a range-extender electric vehicle, and it is propelled at all times by a pair of 201bhp (150kW) Evo Electric motors driving the rear wheels.

These advanced motors direct their power via a single speed (XTRAC) transmission to create what is effectively an open differential, this arrangement significantly reducing driveline friction losses. A quartet of inverters controls the motors and their energy regeneration role under braking, the recovered power directed to a lithium-ion battery mounted behind the seats. The battery can be recharged from a mains power supply (domestic and fast-charge) and stores sufficient energy to propel the Infinit Emerg-E for 30 urban miles, at which point the on-board petrol engine starts up to act as a generator. This light, ultra-compact, Lotus Engineered three-cylinder 1.2 litre 35kW engine has been purpose-designed for its range-extending role. It operates between crank speeds of 1500-4000rpm, producing peak power at only 3500rpm.

The Infiniti Emerg-E high performance, low emission propulsion system is installed within a lightweight, extruded aluminium chassis unit to which ultra-light carbonfibre panels are attached.

All this is efficiently wrapped within highly aerodynamic, light bodywork characterised by an excellent design fluency that takes the Infiniti design vocabulary in a fresh, intriguing and convincing new direction. The car has been developed for excellent aerodynamic performance, both to reduce energy-draining drag – which stands at 0.34 - and to generate positive downforce, and downforce balance, to enhance its high-speed handling.

Infiniti Emerg-E is a strict two-seater sports car, and it provides the classic reclined seating position that heightens the driver’s sense of connection to car and road below. The cockpit is clearly oriented around the driver, and as with all the best sports cars, its simplified controls are located for speedy and intuitive use. The swooping lines of Infiniti’s trademark double wave dashboard structure, a lightweight, floating centre console and the inviting textures of locally sourced, semi-aniline leather upholstery make this a sports car cockpit with a difference, especially in the detail. A pair of slender, lightweight, supportive bucket seats provide grippy Alcantara side bolsters and leather centre panels, the fine stitching of this upholstery confirming Infiniti’s painstaking mastery of interior detail.

INFINITI EMERG-e TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

CLIP Mark Webber testing the Emerg-e at the 2012 Goodwood Festival.

Engine:

Horsepower:

Torque:

Transmission: Front suspension: Rear suspension: Brake system:

Wheels & tires:

Max Speed: Acceleration: CO2 emission:

Length: Width: Height: Wheelbase: Track front / rear: Weight: Fuel tank capacity:

EVO Electric motors (one per rear wheel), Lotus 3-cylinders 1.2 litre 300 kW @ 3000 rpm (EVO), 35 kw @ 3500 rpm (ICE) 1000 Nm (EVO), 107 Nm @ 2500 rpm (ICE) Xtrac Single-speed double wishbone double wishbone four ventilated discs; front: 350 mm; rear: 332 mm front 8J x 19’’, 235/35 R19; rear 9.5J x 20’’, 275/30 R20 209 km/h (130 mph) 0-100 km/h (62 mph) - 4.0 seconds Zero (EV mode), 55g/km (r-e mode, NEDC cycle) 4.464 m 1.954 m 1.219 m 2.624 m 1.638 / 1.595 m 1598 kg 30.6 l

CLASSIC

90 YEARS OF MOTORSPORT PASSION!

Fiat 501 Sport (1923)

2012 marks the 90th birthday of one of the most famous racetracks in the world.

The Autodromo Nazionale in Monza (Italy) has been the set of some of the most memorable pages in motorsport history.

Celebrations started in spring and were concluded in November when some of the earliest cars and motorcycles to have raced on the circuit, were gathered in Monza where a parade through the city took place.

Construction of the Monza Autodrome was decided in January, 1922, by the Automobile Club Milano to mark the 25th anniversary of the club’s founding in March 1897. The need of having a permanent installation for carrying out tests and experiments on all kinds of motor vehicles led to a track design which would allow continuous running at the highest speeds, together with segments of a more varied conformation capable of stressing all mechanical parts.

The location for the final project was chosen in early 1922. Construction of the circuit began in the Villa Reale park in Monza on May 15 and was completed in the record time of just 110 days!

The first Italian Grand Prix to be raced in Monza (September 10, 1922) was won by Pietro Bordino on a Fiat 804.

CLIP The circuit has seen many changes during these 90 years. Although the shape of the track remains very similar to the original one, several changes, like the construction of chicanes, were necessary to reduce high speeds and to enhance safety.

Right: Temperino 8-10 HP Sport (1920) Bottom left: Salmson Rally (1931) Bottom right: Douglas SWS (1927)

CLIP The original circuit included a high-speed loop with a total lenght of 4.5 kilometres (2.79 mi) featuring two banked curves on an embankment rising 2.6 metres (8.5 ft) above surrounding terrain. These curves had a radius of 320 metres (1,050 ft) and were linked by two straights, each 1,070 metres (3,424 ft) long. The road track was 5.5 kilometres (3.41 mi) long and included curves with radii varying from 600 metres (1,920 ft) to 90 metres (288 ft).

CLASSIC

ALPINE A110

50 YEARS OLD !

The Alpine A110 was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1962. The new vehicle featured the steel backbone frame, glass-fiber polyester bodywork and offset rearmounted engine of its illustrious predecessor A106 and A108. It also used parts from Renault production models, particularly the R8. It was thus a powerful and efficient model, featuring all the improvements made to Alpine models over the years. The Alpine A110 did, however, feature one innovation: the 4-cylinder Renault engine with 5 bearings.

To make room for it, the rear end of the vehicle had to be made bigger. This gave the A110 an “aggressive� style that remained its hallmark.

The A110 was a motorsports vehicle that was also available to amateur drivers looking for thrills.

Even so, there was no question of adapting the new Alpine to urban or family use. Drivers, be they professionals or amateurs, had to shoehorn themselves into the minuscule cabin and squeeze their legs into the tunnel as best they could. Only then could they experience the joys of driving this lively sports model!

The A110 made its mark in international events right from its debut. In 1970, Alpine dropped endurance and Formula 3 racing to focus exclusively on road events. This proved to be the right decision. In 1973, the A110 was at the height of its powers, dominating the World Rally Championship in 8 events out of 13. It even notched up 2 one-two-three victories, at the Monte Carlo Rally and the Tour de Corse in Corsica!

It has to be said that with its successive engines, each one feistier than the last, the A110 could easily reach a top speed of 220 kph. The car’s performance and competitive edge were continuously honed throughout its career. In 1975, the Alpine A110 1800 (again designed for motorsports) was the last upgrade to come off the lines at the Dieppe plant.

CLIP Year of release: Dimensions

Maximum speed:

1962 Length: 3.84 m Width: 1.52 m Height: 1.27 m 225 kph

CLASSIC - ALPINE A110-50

RENAULT ALPINE A 110-50 THE HERITAGE OF A NAME To celebrate 50 years of the legendary Berlinette A 110 Renault has created this beautiful concept car, named Renault Alpine A110-50, that translates the most characteristic design features of the original A110 in a modern and spectacular way mainly with the sculpted forms of its elegant bodywork, a characteristic 3D rear window, which reveals the mid-rear engine and air intakes on each side echo the ducts on the rear wheel arches of the Berlinette. The right-hand opening is for gearbox cooling, the left is for the engine bay.

Produced by Faster, the carbon-fibre bodywork features a new shade of blue which refreshes and reinterprets the famous original ‘Alpine Blue’. Every opening panel does so with dynamics worthy of the finest GTs, with the bonnet hinged at the front and the engine bay cover opening towards the rear. The

doors feature a scissor motion. Inside this two-seater everything expresses build quality and sportiness as the driver’s seat features embroidered ‘Renault Alpine A110-50’ badging.

The Renault Alpine A110-50 is imbued with the world of motorsport. It benefits from the experience gained from the racing Mégane Trophy by using the same technical platform. The wheelbase of the Renault Alpine A110-50 is identical to that of the Mégane Trophy (2,625mm), while the track is slightly wider at 1,680mm front and 1,690mm rear. The tubular chassis has been stiffened and undergone several developments. The roll cage and bracing in the engine bay have been modified to be adapted to the vehicle’s height, which is lower than that of the Mégane Trophy.

The efficiency of the Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car is largely generated by ground effect. At the front, a splitter hidden in the bumper generates low pressure, which results in significant aerodynamic downforce.

At the rear, a diffuser accelerates air flow beneath the floor. Ground effect therefore accounts for more than one-third of the car’s downforce, with the rest coming from an adjustable rear wing.

The braking capability of the Renault Alpine A110-50 matches its performance. At the front, large 356mm-

diameter steel discs are slowed by six-piston callipers.

At the rear, the discs are 330mm in diameter, while the callipers are four-piston models.

The French concept car runs the Renault V4Y engine block, a 3.5 litre 24-valve 400hp V6 mounted in a midrear position. The crankcase (semi-wet), moving parts (pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft), valve train (camshafts and valve springs) and exhaust system are specific compared to the version featured on productions models. Furthermore, the Renault Alpine A110-50 uses the carbon air intake employed for MĂŠgane Trophy V6. The gearbox is a semi-automatic six-speed sequential as well as a twin-plate clutch that can be controlled using either the clutch pedal or a paddle on the steering wheel.

RENAULT ALPINE A110 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Engine: Horsepower: Torque: Driveline: Clutch: Transmission: Max Engine Speed: Front suspension: Rear suspension: Brake system:

Wheels & tires:

Length: Width: Height: Track front / rear: Kerb weight: Fuel tank capacity:

Renault V4Y – 6 cylinders - 3.498 litre 400 hp @ 7200 rpm 422 Nm @ 6200 rpm rear-wheel drive, limited slip differential twin plate 6-sped gearbox 7500 rpm double wishbone double wishbone four ventilated discs; front: 356 x 32 mm; rear: 330 x 32 mm front 8 x 21 aluminum alloy, Michelin 245-35 x 21; rear 9.5 x 21 aluminum alloy, Michelin 265-35 x 21 4.330 m 1.961 m 1.230 m 1.680 / 1.690 m 880 kg 30 l

FORMULA 1

Three tim es Vettel !

The 2012 Formula 1 season was nothing less than exciting! Drivers and teams entered the season with uncertainty due to the lack of appropriate test sessions, where constructors could understand the cars‘ potential and undertake more improvement research if necessary. But the new FIA rules and technical regulations proved to be effective in reaching the goal everyone was aiming for in the last decade. As a matter of fact the entertainment factor during this year’s Formula 1 season reached levels last seen during the 80’s! We have seen up to 90 overtaking manouvers under dry track conditions (Chinese Grand Prix), eight different race winners, two first time Grand Prix winners (Rosberg and Maldonado) and the Championship decided by just three points at the last wet race in Brazil. It was also the year in which Michael Schumacher announced his retirement from Formula 1, but not before being on the podium one last time with an emotional third place in Valencia.

© 2012 Infiniti

© Sahara Force India Formula One Team

AUSTRALIA, Melbourne - 18/03 “Every win means a lot, and for us as a team it really shows how important the winter is. We’ve had a strong winter, qualifying really showed that, so it’s nice to come away with a victory at the first race of the new season. The guys back at Woking have done an amazing job this winter.” Jenson Button 1 - Jenson Button (McLaren-Mercedes) - 58 laps 1.34’09”565 (qual. 2) 2 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 2”139 (qual. 6) 3 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 4”075 (qual. 1)

MALAYSIA, Kuala Lampur - 25/03 “A big surprise today with the win. We were not competitive in Australia, we were not competitive here and our goal for this first race is to score as many points as possible.

But today we did 25 so it’s an unbelievable result! Good qualifying yesterday going into Q3 and then today keeping calm in some extreme conditions. It’s a tough time for us at the moment but this Sunday will be remembered.” Fernando Alonso 1 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 56 laps 2.44’51”812 (qual. 8) 2 - Sergio Perez (Sauber-Ferrari) - 2”263 (qual. 9) 3 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 14”591 (qual. 1)

© Ferrari

CHINA, Shanghai - 15/04

Nico Rosberg clinched his first Formula 1 win and Mercedes was back to victory as a constructor since Juan Manuel Fangio won the 1955 Italian Grand Prix. Both Alonso and Vettel had a troubled weekend finishing in 9th and 5th place.

1 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) - 56 laps 1.36’26”929 (qual. 1) 2 - Jenson Button (McLaren-Mercedes) - 20”626 (qual. 5) 3 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 26”012 (qual. 7) © Mercedes GP Petronas

BAHRAIN, Sakhir - 22/04

The Bahrain Grand Prix saw a convincing performance by Sebastian Vettel who won the race ahead of Lotus’ Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean taking the first podium finish of his career.

“It’s great! It’s a strange feeling so far but I think I will be delighted tonight. I’m very proud of the team for all we did in the race. We knew we had a good car but I think we were surprised at the beginning by how quick we were.” Romain Grosjean 1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 57 laps 1.35’10”990 (qual. 1) 2 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus-Renault) - 3”333 (qual. 11) 3 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus-Renault) - 10”194 (qual. 7)

© 2012 Infiniti

© Williams F1 / LAT Photographic

SPAIN, Barcelona - 13/05

It was a great victory for Venezuela, @WilliamsF1Team and myself, we need to keep pushing ;-) thank you for the big support... @Pastormaldo 1 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams-Renault) – 66 laps 1.39’09”145 (qual. 1) 2 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari ) - 3”195 (qual. 2) 3 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus-Renault) - 3”884 (qual. 4)

MONACO, Monte Carlo - 27/05 Monaco is not only about racing.

The small principality is in fact well known for its casinos and for the famous Port Hercule, where some of the most beautiful yachts and ships of the Mediterranean find shelter.

There is no better place to party!

And when the Formula 1 guys are in town, the excitement lasts all week and culminates with the Grand Prix ... and still the winner is expected to celebrate on one of the beautiful yachts right next to the track!

© 2012 Infiniti

1 - Mark Webber (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 78 laps 1.46’06”557 (qual. 1) 2 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) - 0”643 (qual. 2) 3 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 0”947 (qual. 5)

CANADA, Montréal - 10/06

“Starting 15th the last thing you would think about is ending up on the podium. We went quite aggressive, I managed to overtake some cars in difficult manouevres and I could manage my pace well. Then I managed to get some other drivers. It’s a great result for the team after such a bad day we had yesterday.” Sergio Perez 1 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 70 laps 1.32’29”586 (qual. 2) 2 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus-Renault) - 2”513 (qual. 7) 3 - Sergio Perez (Sauber-Ferrari) - 5”260 (qual. 15) © Sauber Motorsport AG

EUROPE, Valencia - 24/06

“It’s difficult to express in words what is the feeling now. Winning a home grand prix is something unique, a very special feeling. In Valencia, with this special team, Ferrari, with all the grandstand full of red colour and Spanish flags. Feeling very proud to be a Spanish sportsman at the moment and winning in Spain this race is probably the best victory I ever felt in terms of emotions. Nothing compares to this one.” Fernando Alonso

1 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F2012) - 58 laps 1.44’16”449 (qual. 11) 2 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus E20-Renault) - 6”421 (qual. 5) 3 - Michael Schumacher (Mercedes MGP W03) - 12”639 (qual. 12) © Ferrari

GREAT BRITAIN, Silverstone - 08/07 “We have a lot of races this year as you know. Melbourne was important, as will Brazil be. I’ve got a couple of wins now and also some consistent results as well. But we know how tight it is. I see Kimi finished ten seconds behind with fourth or fifth place or whatever, so it’s tight.” Mark Webber 1 - Mark Webber (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 52 laps 1.25’11”288 (qual. 2) 2 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F2012) - 3”0 (qual. 1) 3 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB8-Renault) - 4”8 (qual. 4)

© 2012 Infiniti

GERMANY, Hockenheim - 22/07

Congratulations and great victory @alo_oficial in Germany!! Spectacular season so far! Keep it up all the way! #GreatAlonso @paugasol 1 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 67 laps 1.31’05’’862 (qual. 1) 2 - Jenson Button (McLaren-Mercedes) - 6”949 (qual. 6) 3 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus-Renault) - 16”409 (qual. 10) © Ferrari

HUNGARY, Budapest - 29/07

“These are the kind of grands prix, the races you win like this, where you’re under intense pressure from great drivers like Romain and Kimi. This is the kind of day when you have to have your mind 100 per cent and I feel great because the team didn’t flinch and neither did I.” Lewis Hamilton 1 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 69 laps 1.41’05”503 (qual. 1) 2 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus-Renault) - 1”032 (qual. 5) 3 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus-Renault) - 10”518 (qual. 2)

© HOCH ZWEI

BELGIUM, Spa-Francorchamps - 02/09

There are no victories in the war without a scar, no rainbow without the rain ..! See you in Monza! #Leaders #ForzaFerrari @alo_oficial

1 - Jenson Button (McLaren-Mercedes) - 44 laps 1.29’08”530 (qual. 1) 2 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 13”624 (qual. 10) 3 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus-Renault) - 25”334 (qual. 3)

© Ferrari

ITALY, Monza - 09/09

The podium ceremony in Monza is without any doubt the most spectacular of the entire championship. The podium sits on a platform that is literally hanging above the main straight, where thousands of fans gather together to celebrate their idols after the checkered flag. Fernando Alonso was so impressed to see so many fans, that he wanted to be sure people at home could enjoy his same excitement (in the picture).

1 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 53 laps 1.19’41”221 (qual. 1) 2 - Sergio Perez (Sauber-Ferrari) - 4”356 (qual. 12) 3 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 20”594 (qual. 10) © Ferrari

SINGAPORE, Singapore - 23/09 At the Singapore Grand Prix (the “night” race) Sebastian Vettel took the first of four consecutive wins. It was the beginning of the final push towards his third Formula 1 World Championship.

“I think it’s one of the toughest races of the year to be honest. It’s very long; the full two hours. The circuit is a killer.

There’s so many bumps, there’s no space for mistakes and the race just seems to go on forever.” Sebastian Vettel 1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 59 laps 2.00’26”144 (qual. 3) 2 - Jenson Button (McLaren-Mercedes) - 8”959 (qual. 4) 3 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 15”227 (qual. 5)

© Mercedes GP Petronas

JAPAN, Suzuka - 07/10

Seb wins the #JapaneseGP & @AussieGrit brings home points in P9 having fought back from P22 #result @redbullracing Vettel: “It’s been a fantastic weekend.

Yesterday’s qualifying was perfect and today again, the balance of the car was amazing” #JapaneseGP @redbullracing 1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 53 laps 1.28’56”242 (qual. 1) 2 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari) - 20”639 (qual. 10) 3 - Kamui Kobayashi (Sauber-Ferrari) - 24”538 (qual. 3)

© Sahara Force India Formula One Team

KOREAN, Yeongam - 14/10

#WINNING #GANGNAMSTYLE @redbullracing

© 2012 Infiniti

1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 55 laps 1.36’28”651 (qual. 2) 2 - Mark Webber (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 8”231 (qual. 1) 3 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari ) - 13”944 (qual. 4)

INDIA, New Delhi – 28/10

Martin Brundle: “Fernando, do you ever, ever give up? You’re relentless.”

Fernando Alonso: “No, obviously, it’s not easy at the moment to fight with Red Bull. But we will never give up!”

1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull-Renault) - 60 laps 1.31’10”744 2 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 9”437 3 - Mark Webber (Red Bull-Renault) - 13”217

© 2012 Infiniti

ABU DHABI, Yas Marina - 04/11 After a tightly contested race (the only race that starts at sunset and finishes at night) Kimi Raikkonen won his first race since his Formula 1 comeback. It was also the first race to be won by the new Lotus team, but Sebastian Vettel’s third place was probably the most exciting aspect of this race. As a matter of fact the 2011 World Champion started the race from the pit-lane (insufficient fuel after qualifying), finishing third thanks to his incredibly fast pace and to the Red Bull Racing team strategy that was able to take advantage of the safety car deployments.

1 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus-Renault) - 55 laps 1.45’58”667 (qual. 4) 2 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari ) - 0”852 (qual. 6) 3 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 4”163 (qual. 24)

© Ferrari

UNITED STATES, Austin - 18/11

With the confidence gained in Abu Dhabi, Sebastian Vettel was hoping to clinch the championship in Austin, Texas (the United States Grand Prix was back in the calendar after four years), but it was Lewis Hamilton to take victory. The British driver was simply faster than Vettel and took first place by overtaking the championship leader on lap 42. Fernando Alonso’s third place meant that the championship was to be decided in the last race in Brazil.

1 - Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) - 56 laps 1.35’55”269 (qual. 2) 2 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing-Renault) - 0”675 (qual. 1) 3 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 39”229 (qual. 7)

© Mercedes GP Petronas

© 2012 Infiniti

BRAZIL, Sao Paulo - 25/11 The craziest race of the season meant pleanty of drama for both championship contenders.

Sebastian Vettel was dead last after the first lap, while Fernando Alonso took advantage of the difficult track conditions to grab a podium spot hoping to steal the championship from Vettel’s hands. But it was the German driver, showing all his driving skills by overtaking more than ten other cars in less than ten laps with a damage on the left side of his Red Bull, to settle in sixth position and to win the 2012 Formula 1 World Championship. The 25 years old wins his third consecutive title. Just Juan Manuel Fangio and Michael Schumacher managed to win three consecutive championships before him. What will come next?

1 - Jenson Button (McLaren-Mercedes) - 71 laps 1.45’22”656 (qual. 2) 2 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) - 2”754 (qual. 7) 3 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari) - 3”615 (qual. 5)

2012 FIA Formula 1 World Championship final standings 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Vettel 281 pts Alonso 278 pts Raikkonen 207 pts Hamilton 190 pts Button 188 pts

6. Webber 179 pts 7. Massa 122 pts 8. Grosjean 96 pts 9. Rosberg 93 pts 10. Perez 66 pts

“I said it on the radio but you didn’t hear but I said it was for sure the toughest race. Being in a situation to fight for the championship means you’re not on holiday ... just look at the stuff that went wrong.”

Sebastian Vettel “I’m very happy with what we have achieved so far and I don’t think this story is over yet.”

Sebastian Vettel

© 2012 Infiniti

THANK YOU VERY MUCH MICHAEL !

© Mercedes GP Petronas

After the Singapore Grand Prix, Michael Schumacher announced his retirement from Formula 1 racing (his second retirement after the 2006 one). The German racing “legend” had a rough 2012 season, due in particular to the technical gap between Marcedes and the other competitors. This didn’t deny the seven time Formula 1 Champion the chance to add more records to his long career.

The Belgian Grand Prix marked his 300th start in Formula 1, while just after two laps in the United States Grand Prix Michael Schumacher became the diver with the most kilometers driven in a Formula 1 car: more than 80,000!

At the 2012 European Gran Prix in Valencia, Michael Schumacher finished third, gaining his best result since his comeback.

RACING

SUPERSTARS SUPER-EXCITEMENT With breath-taking racing, huge crowds and top-level contenders, the FG GROUP-promoted championships were once again the state of the art in world car racing.

By Marco Cortesi

CLIP The SUPERSTARS INTERNATIONAL SERIES is a production-based racing championship featuring the best top-of-the-line saloon racecars in the business, all powered by V8 engines producing more than 500 horsepower.

The series relies on several spec suppliers and on the work of world-famous Oral Engineering to keep the performance balanced. A clever and exclusive set of rules makes for exciting races between the record-high 10 car manufacturers in contention, including a compensation weight system. The races - two per weekend - are run over 25 minutes plus one lap with rolling start. The grid positions for Race 1 are set in a single, 30-minute qualifying session while the Race 1 results provide the grid for Race 2, although the top-8 positions are reversed.

RACING - SUPERSTARS SUPER-EXCITEMENT

SUPERSTARS made it straight into the sport’s history books once again in 2012, as the series kept growing despite tough economic times, achieving unprecedented success in terms of overall numbers.

By sticking to its successful format featuring the World’s most powerful and recognizable saloon cars, no electronic driving aids, pure competition, exciting races and a fan-oriented environment, SUPERSTARS once again proved a massive success. A record-high 177,600 fans showed their support on-track to 50 drivers and 14 teams, whose efforts were televised in 195 territories, with 66 of them featuring live broadcasts of the races.

While the series reached a milestone with the running its 100th race at Imola, the international media coverage kept growing - and again, maximum performance balancing between cars was the key to the most unpredictable on-track competition. While a massive amount of F1-level talent lined-up at the start including Giancarlo Fisichella, Christian Fittipaldi, Johnny Herbert, Christian Klien, Gianni Morbidelli, Mika Salo and Vitantonio Liuzzi, the battle for wins involved brand-new faces and longtime SUPERSTARS racers.

Andrea Larini and Vitantonio Liuzzi Mercedes AMG C63

CLIP The major social networks are also part of a fully-integrated strategy. The official Facebook page of SUPERSTARS has more than 88.000 fans signed-up while the twitter nation is also covered. The interaction with the championship’s fan base is key for SUPERSTARS and initiatives to keep in contact with them are made on a daily basis. Everything happens thanks to a fullyintegrated multimedia communication plan to spread the SUPERSTARS way of racing!

Francesco Sini Chevrolet Lumina

CLIP The race weekends featured an improved program for fans this season, featuring the Stands4Fun activities before the races and the Paddock Show public interview sessions shortly after the chequered flag. The crowd’s response has been huge, with more than 31.000 fans showing up at Monza, 24.000 at Imola, 33.000 at Vallelunga e 25.000 at Pergusa.

Christian Fittipaldi Maserati Quattroporte

Christian Klien

Johnny Herbert

Thomas Biagi BMW M3 E92

CLIP

RACING - SUPERSTARS SUPER-EXCITEMENT

The power of SUPERSTARS does not stop with the thousands of fans on the grandstands ‌ a huge amount of 66 countries are covered by live TV broadcasts. The distribution plan reaches a record 195 territories through tape-delayed, highlights and news coverage for a potential viewership of more than 1.5 billion people and top-of-the-line TV production makes sure it matches the high-quality on-track action.

Gabellini and Pigoli crash in Donington

The season will be remembered for its great opening and for a phenomenal three-way-confrontation going into the closing round at Pergusa. Although Liuzzi, a newcomer to the series aboard a manufacturersupported Mercedes C63 AMG immediately scored a victory at Monza, the Audi factor quickly came into play. Alongside multiple SUPERSTARS Champion Gianni Morbidelli, a new star by the name of Johan Kristoffersson had an awesome debut. Joining them in the fight for the Italian and International titles was Thomas Biagi, who scored podium finishes at

almost every round, while Andrea Larini, Francesco Sini and Christian Klien also took wins to shake things up.

After a massive participation of fans at Vallelunga, it all went down to the wire in an unforgettable weekend of excitement in Sicily. In the end, it was the new kid on the block Kristoffersson prevailing in a season that featured eight different winning drivers representing five different manufacturers.

In such a stunning season, GTSPRINT (the side series dedicated to GT cars) was no less exciting by any means. Andrea Palma dominated most of the season with his Ferrari 458 Italia, winning nine races, but the competition was still spectacular.

Many top cars in the GTS3 class were able to challenge for overall wins including the Ferrari 458 of Ombra Racing, the mighty Corvette fielded by RC Motorsport, the Audi Sport Italia-prepared Audi R8 and the Swiss Team GT3 Maserati GranTurismo.

Palma, a proven winner from the 2011 season, had to tame a strong pack enroute to a well-deserved victory.

Liuzzi, Morbidelli and Salo

CORPORATE NEWS

Europe United Kingdom

Aston Martin announces new partnership with Investindustrial A sustainable long-term growth plan was announced as Aston Martin welcomed Investindustrial as a major shareholder. Investindustrial is investing £150m in Aston Martin in the form of a capital increase for a 37.5 per cent stake in the company.

Aston Martin intends to invest more than half a billion pounds in its new product and technology programme over the next five years. With the support of The Investment Dar and Investindustrial, the company is well positioned to realise its ambitious growth strategy.

Aston Martin production will remain at the luxury British marque’s global headquarters at Gaydon in Warwickshire, a purpose-built facility where a skilled workforce of 1600 employees assemble the current range of sports cars.

Aston Martin Chairman David Richards said: “I am delighted that Investindustrial has decided to become a

major investor in Aston Martin. With the support of The Investment Dar, we have made substantial progress over the past five years in laying the foundations for success as one of the world’s leading luxury sports car manufacturers. Investindustrial’s new investment reflects and sustains the unique position of Aston Martin within the industry. With this partnership and the continued commitment of The Investment Dar, we look forward to working with our shareholders as we realise our vision and exciting future plans.”

Andrea C. Bonomi, Senior Principal at Investindustrial, comments: “We are delighted to form part of this iconic global, but quintessentially British brand. We are looking forward to working with the management and Investment Dar to achieve a similar transformation and rejuvenation that we achieved with Ducati, by expanding the model range and strengthening the dealership network, throughout the world.”

Europe Germany Expansion of the Porsche Plant in Saxony with in-house Body Assembly and Paint Shop One of the most modern paint shop facilities in the world, covering 60,000 square meters is being built at the Leipzig plant, which is also part of the largest construction project in the history of Porsche: the expansion of the Saxony plant into a fully-fledged factory, with on-site body assembly and paint shop for the production of the new model Macan. “Construction works are absolutely on schedule” explains Wolfgang Leimgruber, Member of the Executive Board Production at Porsche AG, “All efforts are geared at the production launch of the new Macan on time, and at the best quality up to Porsche standards as of the end of 2013.”

“In our expansion of the Leipzig plant, Porsche is not just setting a clear signal in respect of the environment, but also a clear signal to the people of the region. The plant expansion will create 1,000 new jobs. The paint shop alone will generate jobs for more than 400 new employees”, said Siegfried Bülow, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Leipzig GmbH.

South America / Asia Brazil / South Korea Hyundai HB20 Named 2013 Brazilian Car of the Year The HB20, Hyundai Motor’s first Brazil-exclusive model, was announced as the 2013 Brazilian Car of the Year at the Museu Brasileiro da Escultura (MuBE) in Sao Paulo.

Hyundai is the first Korean automaker to win the award.

The jury consisted of sixteen independent journalists from eleven different media. All jurors evaluated the new cars introduced in Brazil between November 2011 and October 2012, and chose Hyundai HB20 as the final winner over, among the others, Chevrolet Sonic, Citroën C3, Peugeot 308 and Toyota Etios. “To win this prestigious award with our first Brazil-exclusive model is an honor beyond words,” said Chang-Kyun Han, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Brasil, a whollyowned subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company.

Asia / Europe India / Germany Production of Q7 starts in India Audi has started production of the Q7 luxury-class SUV at its Aurangabad plant, in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

Up to 1,000 of the Audi Q7 will be built there each year to supply the Indian market. Following on from the Audi A4, Audi A6 and Audi Q5, the Q7 is the fourth model to be built in India by the Ingolstadt carmaker. “Local production of the Audi Q7 is part of our long-term growth strategy in India, one of the most promising auto markets in the world,” declared Dr. Frank Dreves, Audi Board Member for Production. The Audi Q7 will be produced in a newly constructed hall at the group plant Škoda Auto India Private Limited (SAIPL). Production of the Audi Q3 in the new Audi hall is also planned from mid-2013. Over the first ten months of this year, Audi increased its sales in the Indian market by 55 percent to 7,273 automobiles. That means that Audi India has already clearly surpassed its record sales total of 5,511 cars for the whole of the previous year. At dealer level, too, the Company is steadily building up its nationwide presence: There will be 25 dealerships throughout the country by the end of this year. New showrooms opened in Kanpur, Goa, Navi Mumbai, Coimbatore, Delhi West, Nagpur and Bhopal over the past few months.

North America / Asia Mexico / Japan Mazda to produce Toyota vehicle at Mexico Plant Earlier in November it was announced that Mazda’s plant in Mexico, currently under construction, will produce a Toyota brand vehicle for sale mainly in North America. The sub-compact Toyota-brand vehicle, to be based on the Mazda2, is to start production around the summer of 2015 at a pace of 50,000 units per year and will be sold through Toyota dealerships. Mazda’s plant in Mexico is scheduled to start production within the fiscal year ending March 2014, with Toyota investing an appropriate portion of the production equipment costs and developement costs related to the Toyota vehicle and also an appropriate portion of the costs related to the plant’s production-capacity increase.

North America United States Lincoln opens Design Studio

CORPORATE NEWS

Lincoln celebrated weeks ago another element of its reinvention journey with the formal opening of the new Lincoln Design Studio in Dearborn, Mich., the brand’s first new fully dedicated design center in four decades.

This major facility, located on the campus of Ford Motor Company’s Product Development Center, is home to a skilled, co-located global team of designers, sculptors, math sculptors and modelers representing a dozen nationalities, with experience in just as many design centers around the world.

This team is part of a dedicated Lincoln Product Development organization, creating four all-new Lincoln vehicles by 2015 to ensure the reinvented brand has a presence in the highest growth segments of the premium market.

Europe Germany Gumpert recovering after insolvency After being able to restart production during insolvency administration, the order list is growing slowly but steadily. Insolvency proceedings started, accordingly to schedule, on October 16 2012. Insolvency administrator Mr. Görge Scheid is convinced that with all orders in negotiation, business will continue permanently and sustainably.

Despite a downturn in the automotive industry, the strong demand for the sports car Apollo shows that there is still a place in the market for an independent sports car manufacturer.

The world-wide dealer network has been reactivated: orders from Japan, China, Turkey and the Middle East are also expected. “We strongly assume that we will find an investor and save all 25 jobs in Altenburg”, announced insolvency administrator Mr. Scheid.

Asia / North America China / United States Chery-ADI Laboratory jointly inaugurated Chery-ADI Laboratory, jointly built by Chery Scientific Research Institute and Analog Devices Inc. (ADI), has been inaugurated a few weeks ago. The laboratory will make full use of ADI’s cutting-edge technologies and technological achievements, as well as Chery’s advantages including the capacity for prospective technology research, production conditions and market platforms, to create a technological innovation system, convert advanced research findings into productivity as soon as possible, and promote the mutual development of scientific research of auto industry.

The move also marks successful cooperation between a Chinese automaker and a US electronic technology enterprise in automotive technology development, and will boost the technical progress and application level of Chery and China’s auto industry in the field of automotive electronics.

South America / Europe Venezuela / France Renault launches industrial project in Venezuela On November 24, 2012, the Ministry of the People’s Power for Industry of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and Renault Venezuela signed a letter of intention for the installation of a vehicle assembly plant. This signature will enable a feasibility study for local production of vehicles.

Furthermore on November 26, 2012, the first Training Center for Automotive Mechatronics (the systematic combination of mechanics, electronics and real time information technology) was inaugurated at the Dr. Federico Rivero Palacio University Technology Institute of the University of Caracas. This center is the result of a joint project between the Venezuelan Ministry of the People’s Power for University Education, the French Ministry of National Education and Renault Venezuela.

This new offering will enable 60 students each year to obtain an automotive technician diploma.

North America / Europe United States / Germany Porsche Cars North America celebrates a landmark groundbraking Porsche Cars North America, importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan, celebrated a landmark groundbreaking of its new headquarters, to be known as One Porsche Drive.

Located adjacent to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the 26.4-acre site is the first complex to be built in the “Aerotroplis Atlanta” business district.

Employees from Porsche Cars North America and its affiliates Porsche Financial Services, Porsche Business Services, and Porsche Consulting attended the event alongside executives from Porsche Group companies in North America and Germany, as well as local dignitaries. Most of Porsche’s North American operations will be consolidated under one roof once the new facility is finished in the second half of 2014.

Ultimately, One Porsche Drive will house 400 employees, including 100 jobs that will be new to Georgia. In addition to corporate offices, it will also be comprised of a Technical Service and Training Center, a Conference Center and a Museum. As an industry first, the Porsche headquarters campus will feature a Customer Experience Center including a 1.6-mile test track and handling road course to showcase the capabilities of Porsche’s industry-leading vehicles.

“Porsche’s presence has been embraced by Atlanta and the state of Georgia for the last 14 years,” said Matthias Mueller, President and CEO of Porsche AG. “We’re happy to reciprocate the sentiment with this new facility, which contributes to the state’s economic development and also adds a bit of glamor to the local community.”

“Our investment here in Atlanta is a testament to our belief in the future of this great nation and, above all, our confidence in this very important market,” concluded Mueller.

North America / Europe United States / Ireland

New Ford Ranger wins “International Pick-Up Award 2013 Every member of the judging panel ranked new Ranger as their number one choice; praising its performance on- and off-road, strong engine line-up, payload and towing capability, and safety.

New Ranger won the “International Pick-Up Award 2013” award following extensive testing at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, England, after which it was awarded 47 points – more than the combined number of points garnered by the second- and third-

Asia / Europe Japan / Hungary Suzuki signs partnership with Hungarian government Continuing over twenty years of collaboration between the Hungarian Government and Magyar Suzuki Corporation (MSC), both parties signed a strategic partnership agreement with a view to further cooperation, strengthening the existing economic bonds, and promoting steady, sustainable operation.

The new agreement establishes a framework for the further expansion of MSC’s manufacturing and

placed Isuzu D-Max and Volkswagen Amarok. The award was presented to Ford by jury chairman Pieter Wieman at the Fleet Transport EXPO 12 event, in Dublin. Ford has this year already won “International Van of the Year 2013” for the all-new Transit Custom; and its 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine was named the 2012 “International Engine of the Year”.

The new Ford Ranger is on sale in all major markets across Europe.

development activities in Hungary, and also enables MSC to maintain its competitiveness on the European market. By signing the partnership agreement, the Hungarian Government has expressed its intention to support – in several ways – Suzuki’s stable, ongoing business operations in Hungary, while Magyar Suzuki Corporation confirmed to the Government its plans for a long-term presence in the country for the manufacture of Suzuki models for the Hungarian and European markets. Magyar Suzuki hopes that the agreement will create a solid basis for further development and investment. The company has confirmed its plans to continue its investments, which have exceeded 1.3 billion since the establishment of Magyar Suzuki.

Asia / Europe Korea / Germany

Asia / North America Japan / United States

Kia cee’d at German Design Award 2013

Subaru named 2012 Design Challenge Winner at LA Auto Show

The second-generation Kia cee’d acheived a “Special Mention” at the prestigious German Design Award 2013. The cee’d received the accolade for its exceptional design quality in the “Transportation and Public Space” category of the Award, which considered the aesthetics and functionality of all types of vehicle. The award was judged by a jury of 30 leading experts in design, science and business, who reviewed over 1,500 entries across 10 categories.

The official presentation of the German Design Awards will take place at Ambiente, the world’s largest consumer goods exhibition, on 15 February 2013 in Frankfurt.

The new cee’d, Kia’s best-selling model in Europe, has already been recognised for its design at the Automotive Brand Contest in June 2012. In this competition it won an award for exterior design and received a “Special Mention” for its interior.

Subaru won the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge competition after the presentation of its SHARC (Subaru Highway Automated Response Concept) vehicle. As a futuristic model for 24-hour highway monitoring, the SHARC provides protection and rapid emergency response solutions for Hawaii’s highway patrol.

The cutting-edge SHARC is an affordable and environmentally conscious highway patrol vehicle that meets Hawaii’s strict UltraGreen carbon-neutral environmental regulations. With visible trends in reduced highway patrol budgets worldwide, SHARC vehicles are powered by renewable energy and operate autonomously, eliminating the need for a large full-time highway patrol staff.

The Design Challenge takes place annually on the final Press Day of the LA Auto Show. For each of the past nine years, a new Design Challenge theme is chosen and the major automotive design studios showcase their talents, competing against one another to further explore new ideas in automotive design.

The SHARC design won this highly anticipated competition for “capturing the vision of Design Challenge theme by combining functionality and problem-solving technology around a dynamic and plausible story” and the global joint efforts of the Subaru Global Design team led by FHI’s Design Dept. in collaboration with Subaru’s design studios of the U.S. and Europe were also highly recognized by the judges.

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