KENYA’S PREMIER AUTO MAG COMPLIMENTARY COPY
VOL. 2 ISSUE 2 - FEB/MAR 2016
Detroit Motor Show Our Top 10
Purchasing a Car Tips
The Kenya Car Guy
Classic Car
Karl Benz Motorwagen
Ducati XDiavel Weird & Quirky | Bike: Triumph Street Twin | The Dakar Rally
Dear Reader, Greetings! We blinked and January has flown by! We hope our dear readers have settled comfortably into the groove of 2016. February is the month of love and there is nothing more tantalizing to the eye then sparkling new cars…or so we think! One of our main features is the Detroit Motor Show, it is the first motoring show of the calendar year. Get to know our top picks and what we feel, would be relevant and interesting to the Kenyan motoring enthusiast. We were particularly enthused with the muscular F-150 Supercrew Raptor and the Nissan Titan Warrior concept. Also, high on our radar was the all new Mercedes E-Class with its stylish refinement and luxurious interior. Our bikes feature this month, showcases the new Ducati XDiavel, which is also on our front cover. This is one seriously good looking techno-cruiser bike! It combines two worlds, Ducati’s technical experience with creating world-class sport bikes, and an enticing experience into the world of the cruiser; a world of long distance riding. The other bike in focus is the Triumph Street Twin, an example of the current retro theme that has taken off recently, with an emphasis on the 70’s look. We also take a brief insight into the history of Mercedes Benz, in our classic car section, with the first automobile ever invented. This was Karl Benz’s Motorwagen and this year the automotive world celebrated its 130th anniversary. It is mind blowing to imagine how far we have come with the automobile from those early days. Come and delve into the world of motoring paints with the creative and inventive Crown Paints, which has regular training programs throughout the year on how best to use automotive paints. Recently they had a session with Toyota Kenya on how to give your vehicle the ultimate paint finish and shine. Drive Kenya was interested in this tricky but important know-how as well. The Kenya Car Guy, our on-site automotive engineer, advises on how to go about purchasing a good second hand vehicle; what to look out for and what to be cautious of. Then we get ‘fast and furious’ with the local and international news and motoring sports preview for MotoGP, F1, and results for the Monte Carlo WRC; the first international rally of the year. We take an in-depth look at the recently finished Dakar Rally Raid results, the toughest rally in the world, won by Stephan Peterhansel for an astonishing 12th time! Enjoy the ride and drive safe! Drive Kenya Team.
Contact us for more details and options: P.O.Box: 1911 – 00606 Westlands, Nairobi - Email: info@drivekenya.co.ke - tripletwoholdings@gmail.com Tel: +254 718 221 222 +254 732 221 222 - www.drivekenya.co.ke Published By: Triple Two Holdings Ltd. - Editorial & Design Team: Amit Kwatra, Amit Soni & Vivek Kothary
Quality Car & Home Care Products Available at all leading supermarkets
Contents NEWS & EDITORIALS
REVIEWS & FIRST DRIVES
5
The News
8
Classic Car: Karl Benz Motorwagen
9
The Kenya Car Guy
15
Bikes: Triumph Street Twin
10
Crown Paints & Toyota Kenya
17
Uncle Bob: Convertible Child Seats
12
The Detroit Motorshow
16
Weird & Quirky
20
International Motorsport
Front page photo credit: Ducati Media
The Dakar Rally Pg 18
Ducati XDiavel Pg 14
4 DRIVEKENYA.CO.KE | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016
IN
www.drivekenya.co.ke
THE NEWS
DT Dobie Holds Regional Mercedes Actros Truck Sales Trainings
Manuel Baader (right), an instructor from Germany, conducted an international Mercedes Actros truck course at DT Dobie in Nairobi. He discusses the specifications of a Mercedes Actros with John Ngugi (second left) of DT Dobie, Nairobi and Charles Mwansa (left) and Anthony Mwamba (second right) both, of Southern Cross Motors in Zambia. The course covered the technology and strengths of Actros trucks and was attended by sales executives from Sudan, Uganda, Zambia and DT Dobie branches in Nairobi, Mombasa and Nakuru
Insurance Industry In Trouble? Research and consulting firm, Celent, predicted that within a generation, more than half the vehicles on the roads will be autonomous. The accounting and advisory firm KPMG predicted that, as a consequence, the auto insurance industry could shrink by over 60% in the same time period, as car owners will only need to buy policies that cover car theft and noncrash related damage.
Kenya’s Premier Auto Mag
February/March 2016
Renault-Nissan to Launch more than 10 Autonomous Models over the Next Four Years
Date Set for 2016 CBA AFRICA Concours d’Elegance
Just as the New Year dawned, the Renault-Nissan Alliance confirmed that, it will launch more than 10 new models with autonomous drive technology, in the next four years. The new range of autonomous vehicles will be launched in the United States, Europe, Japan and China, by 2020. Mike Whitfield, Managing Director of Nissan South Africa, said upon this confirmation, that the Renault-Nissan Alliance is deeply committed to zero emissions and zero fatalities, the reason for developing autonomous driving and connectivity for mainstream vehicle mass-market.
The Kenya Motor Sport Federation has set the date of September 25th for the 2016 CBA Africa Concours d’Elegance. The event will be the fifth to be sponsored by the Commercial Bank of Africa and will be held by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club at the Nairobi Racecourse. Since the formation of the Club, in 1970, a Concours has been held each year as an anniversary celebration. Minor changes have been made to the regulations which have been approved by the KMSF.
Safety and efficiency of vehicles across the Renault-Nissan Alliance have increased dramatically over the years. Fatal and serious injuries in Nissan vehicles decreased by 61% over the last 20 years in Japan, and in France, Renault vehicles experienced 80% decrease in the last 15 years. Autonomous drive is expected to further reduce driver error, which is responsible for up to 90% of all fatalities. Renault-Nissan will also launch a suite of new connectivity applications that will make it easier for people to stay linked to work, entertainment and social networks. To ensure optimum performance across all connectivity departments, Renault- Nissan recently announced the immediate appointment of technology executive, Ogi Redzic, to lead as Alliance senior vice president of Connected Vehicles and Mobility Services. Redzic joins Renault-Nissan after positions at Nokia, NAVTEQ, Motorola, and cyberPIXIE. Redzic will be responsible for accelerating the validation process for connectivity applications and be based in Paris overseeing teams in France and Japan.
The regulations for 2016, list 20 classes for all types of cars and motorcycles, because of the diversity of the ages and the makes of the competing vehicles. Originality is not taken into consideration in their assessment as the judging is based entirely on cleanliness, condition and the standards of preparation. Recognizing the current harsh economic environment, no change has been made to the entry fees. Emphasis has been placed on encouraging newcomers to prepare their cars and motorcycles for the classiest event on the motor sport calendar and to attract more overseas entries by the provision of special prizes. Last year, there were 23 competitors from outside of Kenya who came from Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda.
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Talk to us today to find our more. GA Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road | Mombasa Kisumu | Westlands Call: 0786 555555, (020) 2711633/4, 0736 711633, 0721 677273 Email: insure@gakenya.com | Online: www.gakenya.com
Karl Benz Motorwagen
Wikimedia Commons
Three wheels
Tubular steel frame
Rack and pinion steering
Electric ignition
Differential rear end gears
Single cylinder, Bore 116 mm, Stroke 160 mm
Water-cooled internal combustion engine
Gas or petrol four-stroke horizontally mounted engine
Patent model: 958 cc, 0.8 hp, 600 W, 16 km/h
Commercialized model: 1600 cc, ¾ hp, 8 mph (13 km/h)
130 years ago on January 29th Karl Benz submitted his patent application for his “horseless carriage” to the Imperial Patent Office in Berlin. This is generally regarded as the birth of the automobile. Over the years, the successors to his motor-wagen have gained a high reputation for comfort, performance and reliability. It is significant that for the past 67 years Mercedes Benz cars and trucks have been sold and serviced in Kenya by DT Dobie.
After marketing their vehicles jointly they merged to form Daimler Benz in June 1926. This resulted in the globally recognized three pointed star trademark which included the name “Mercedes”. The three pointed star trademark which has become instantly recognizable throughout the world was registered as a trademark in 1909. This symbolized Gottlieb Daimler’s ambition of universal motorization “on land, on water and in the air”.
In the early days Karl Benz struggled to overcome the restrictive attitude of authorities and users of horse drawn carriages. He was only granted limited time for driving his vehicle and he had to submit a list, showing each individual municipality through which he wished to pass. Finally in December 1896, he was given authority to drive on public roads, but the government reserved the right to withdraw the authorization at any time.
The biggest selling and most popular Mercedes in the world and in Kenya is the C-Class which gives owners of this premium mid-sized car the luxury that is usually featured in the higher segments. The current C-Class model was introduced in Kenya by DT Dobie in 2014. There is a choice of two versions : the Exclusive which has an interpretation of the traditional Mercedes Benz grill and the Avantgarde, which is designed to appeal to motorists who delight in a car with a sporting looking front end. Zarak Khan who joined DT Dobie in 1981 and has been the Managing Director since 1997 observed, “In 1886 there was only one car which was Carl Benz’s ‘horseless carriage’. Today for discerning motorists with sufficient means there is still only one car----the Mercedes Benz S Class.”
Karl Benz founded his company in 1883 and Gottlieb Daimler formed the Daimler Company in 1890 to develop and sell automobiles. Following the harsh economic conditions after the First World War which seriously affected the automotive industry, Daimler and Benz decided to form a syndicate in 1924 to remain competitive by standardizing design, production and reduce the cost of purchasing materials. 8 DRIVEKENYA.CO.KE | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016
(Source: Bob Dewar, Abridged version)
Each month, our car guy gives you solutions to the problems you face with your car.
Mobile: +254 733 666 597 - E-mail: info@kenyacarguy.com This month we asked the Kenya Car Guy for tips on buying a used vehicle. He gave us his expert advice below. First things first, buying a car is typically the most expensive purchase you are going to make after your house. Your most important task is to figure out your budget and how you are going to finance it. If you have the cash on hand, congratulations. If you’re thinking of taking out an auto loan, make sure monthly repayments, fuel expenses and car insurance take up no more than a quarter of your household monthly income. The next step is to determine what your typical drive is going to be like. Do you intend to just use it in the city for yourself? Do you intend to use it to transport you and your family? Do you travel upcountry or to the coast frequently? Or do you intend to go bundu-bashing in the Mara or Aberdares? These are important criteria and you will probably need to compromise to get the right mix. Following this, narrow your list down do a few cars and check out their prices online.
Research their reviews, assess the fuel consumption data, check out local review forums if available and find out from your mechanic if spares are readily available for the vehicles you are considering. Print out pages from these sites to keep a record of all the data you are collecting for comparison purposes. Once you have selected a car, go for a test drive at your selected dealer. Remember every used car has a unique history, depending on the owner. You want to test the car for comfort, quality and handling of the ride, cleanliness of the interior, engine responsiveness, how comfortable the passenger and back seats are, as well as the cargo booth area. If you can, bring your mechanic along to get his assessment of the vehicle. Remember to re-assess any vehicle you have selected. You are going to be spending a lot of money and time on and in this vehicle, so make sure the numbers make particular sense to your needs.
To send in your questions to the Kenya Car Guy Contact: info@drivekenya.co.ke
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Crown Paints Kenya recently had a training session on automotive paints with Toyota Kenya. Two paint experts from Kansai Plascon, South Africa’s largest automotive coatings company, were on hand to impart the best technical know how to the Toyota Kenya team. From primers to clear coats, Crown Paints has an unrivaled range of products in the vehicle refinishing department via their partnership with Kansai. Crown Paints products are supported by advanced colour information systems, process toolkits and regular technical training programs such as the one held in conjunction with Toyota Kenya. Their goal is to combine speed, ease of use, durability and perfect colour matching through the application of state of the art paints technology to give your vehicle the perfect re-finished sheen.
Kansai Plascon Regional Manager- Export Automotive, Paul Da Costa demonstrates how to paint cars using the spray gun during a training held in partnership between Crown Paints (K) Limited and Toyota Kenya.
Kansai Plascon Regional Manager- Export Automotive, Gordon Wright (left) and Jonathan Mutune during the automotive training on car painting.
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Crown Paints Colour Technician, Gerald Odhiambo shows trainees how to use the colour ratio ruler during the training held through the partnership between Crown Paints (K) Limited and Toyota Kenya.
Peter Muyigi from Toyota Uganda cleans a car in preparation for its painting during the training.
Kansai Plascon Regional Manager- Export Automotive, Gordon Wright (centre) explains to trainees how best to do a car painting.
Kansai Plascon Regional Manager- Export Automotive, Paul Da Costa (second right) shows Peter Muyigi (right) how to effectively paint a car using the spray gun.
Kansai Plascon Regional Manager- Export Automotive, Paul Da Costa takes the trainees through a theory test moments after the training.
Kansai Plascon trainers pose for a group photo with the automotive painting trainees.
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Detroit Motor Show BMW M2 The 1-series M Coupe has been a huge success for BMW, it is no wonder they came up with the M2. The M2 designed for a track environment, looks muscular and powerful and has a turbocharged N55 inline-6 engine that produces 365-hp with a baseline torque of 343 lb-ft, that can be cranked up to 369 lb-ft using the over boost function. 0-97km/h is achieved in less than 4.2 seconds on the automatic version and 4.4 seconds on the manual. Top speed is redlined at 248km/h.
Audi 2017 Allroad The Audi 2017 Allroad is Audi’s do-everything wagon. Its architecture is based on the newly redesigned A4 sedan. Audi has confirmed a 272-hp, 2.0-litre, and a 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine. It will most likely be mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The Allroad has an exaggerated wheel arch to accommodate its 19in wheels. Three hybrid plug-in options are on the way with no mention of diesel engines.
Ford F-150 Raptor We have seen a few F-150 Raptors on Kenyan roads. These vehicles embody ruggedness and toughness. Ford used the 2016 Detriot motor show to showcase the F-150 Raptor SuperCrew which has a wheelbase that is a foot longer than the SuperCab model it is based on. The Raptor SuperCrew will be 227 kilos lighter, thanks to an aluminium frame, making it more powerful. Though Ford hasn’t released figures, it will overpower the Raptor’s 6.2-liter V-8, which churned out 411 horsepower and 434 lb-ft of torque.
Ford Fusion The Ford Fusion (aka Ford Mondeo) is Ford’s mid-size offering to the auto world and lies between the Ford Focus and Taurus in its product line-up. The five members of the Ford Fusion family have received freshly designed front fascias, numerous infotainment upgrades as well as a revised interior trim. The Fusion is available as a hybrid, an Energi plug-in hybrid, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, a 1.5-liter and a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged engine.
Honda Ridgeline The Ridgeline is Honda’s charge into the pickup segment after a brief hiatus. The Ridgeline has a 3.5-liter V6 engine and will be offered as front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The Ridgeline looks solid and, Honda says the max payload will be 725 kilos. The 2017 Ridgeline will come with 3-zone climate control, leather seating, pushbutton start and an 8-inch display. The AWD option will include a torque-vectoring function and a multi-mode terrain-management system.
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Credits: LA & Motorshow Media ImageImage Source: NAIAS Daimler Media
Kia Telluride The Kia Telluride is Kia’s second attempt at a full sized SUV. It is based on the Sorento, but is 9.5 inches longer, 4.7 inches wider and 4.4 inches taller. The Telluride looks wild with its 22-inch wheels, giant grille and multiple-LED headlamps. The Telluride has an all wheel drive system with a plug-in hybrid system, a 3.5-liter direct-injected 270-hp V-6 and a 130-hp electric motor. Kia built the steering wheel, dashboard and door panels using 3D printing.
Mercedes E-Class The Mercedes E-Class is now approaching its tenth generation and, it has received a significant re-design, much like the S-Class and C-Class received in 2014. It has an elegant look with its rearward profile and gentle sloping tail. It is also bigger by 1.7 inches lengthwise on the previous model. The new E-Class interior was rated as ‘world-class’ by critics at the show, with intricate upholstery, LED ambient lighting, a 12.3 inch high-res screen, beautifully designed wooden dash, and a 23-speaker Burmester sound system.
Nissan Titan The Nissan Titan is Nissan’s testosterone fueled challenge to the Ford F-150 Raptor. The Titan Warrior concept is Nissan’s “adventure-ready, desert racing–inspired design”. The Warrior is powered by a 5.0-litre turbo-diesel V8 engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic. It sports massive 37-inch off-road tyres and looks sleek with its matte-gray finish and new LED headlights that take the shape of interlocking Cs.
Porsche 911 Turbo & Turbo S Porsche showcased their updated, all-wheel drive, 911 Turbo and Turbo S models. Both models have seen a 20-hp increase in power to 540-hp and 580-hp, respectively. The Turbo models retain their 3.8-liter engines and are mated to the standard sevenspeed, PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission. 0-97km/h is 2.9 seconds on the Turbo and 2.8 seconds on the Turbo S. The Turbo has a top speed of 316.8km/h, while the Turbo S maxes out at a wild 328km/h.
Volvo S90 Volvo has unveiled its new large Sedan, the S90, sharing its architecture and powertrains with last years, XC90 SUV. The S90 will be available as an AWD plug-in hybrid, a 2.0-litre turbocharged and supercharged engine or a 2.0-litre turbocharged version. Since Volvo wants autonomous vehicles by 2020, the Pilot Assist function, on top of adaptive cruise control, can steer the car at speeds of up to 130 km/h and can guide the car solely via lane markings without having to lock onto a car ahead!
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Ducati XDiavel
Ducati Media
The covers are off and the all new and uber-cool Ducati XDiavel is here! This is Ducati’s first serious attempt in recent times to enter the cruiser market. As the firm puts it, “The XDiavel is low speed excitement, where the relaxed low-speed riding is typical of the cruiser world, while the excitement and adrenalin of sports riding is unmistakeably Ducati. The X in XDiavel represents precisely that; two apparently different, distant worlds, that come together in one unique bike, a synthesis in which both are complete, without compromise.” Ducati has rigged their engine capacity to 1262cc and has added their Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT) system to ensure that the engine delivers high torque at a low 5,000rpm (for a Ducati). One of the most important changes is the beltdrive system as opposed to a chain drive. As one reviewer emphasized, the advantages of quieter running, less maintenance, softer power transmission and lack of mess from chain lube are essential considerations for customers in the cruiser market. A wide handlebar and foot pegs that are further forward mean that the XDiavel
has a feet forward riding position. The XDiavel comes highly equipped with adjustable riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, traction control and launch control. This long, low, muscular, modern shaped techno-cruiser is available for Kshs 2.3m for the standard trim version overseas and Kshs 2.7m for the S model.
QUICK SPECS Engine Type: Ducati Testastretta DVT, L-Twin, 4-cylinder, Dual spark, Liquid cooled Fuel injection: Bosch fuel injection system, Full ride-bywire system.
Frame Type: Tubular steel Trellis frame
Engine Displacement: 1262 cc
Bore and Stroke: 106mm x 71.5mm
Compression ratio: 13:1
Power: 156 hp @ 9500 rpm
Torque: 95.0 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Exhaust: Stainless steel exhaust and muffler with dual oval exits, Catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes
Tyre Front: Pirelli Diablo Rosso II, 120/70 ZR17 Tyre Rear: Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 240/45 ZR17
Brakes Front: 2 x 320 mm semifloating discs Brakes Rear: 265 mm disc, 2-piston floating calliper
Fuel Capacity: 18-Litre
Front Suspension: Adjustable Ø 50 mm usd fork Rake and Trail: 30° and 130mm
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Kerb Weight: 247 kg
Rear Suspension: Single shock absorber, Adjustable preload and rebound.
Seat Height: 755 mm
Triumph Street Twin
Triumph Media
For those looking for quality, classic retro looks, an unrivaled heritage and a sensible price tag, Triumph’s Street Twin is the way to go. Critics note that the Triumph, with its new liquidcooled engine, is easy to handle, and has a raft of modern day electronic riding aids, that make it fun to ride. The Street Twin features a new chassis with non-adjustable Kayaba forks and a pre-load adjustable twin Kayaba shock setup. The new seat comes with 25% more padding that reviewers claim, enhances ride quality. This bike is said to handle brilliantly with excellent full lean stability and has a powerful Nissin single disc twinpiston brake setup. It comes with an 18” front wheel meant to accentuate the retro look. Triumph claims a frugal 75.5mpg and service intervals that have been increased from 9,600 to 16,000-kilometers. Power is up by 22hp to 54-hp on the 5-speed gearbox, over the old out-going air-cooled version. Traction control and ABS come as standard, as well as a simple white on black speedo, incorporating a multi-functional digital display. An underseat USB socket is also standard
as well as an immobiliser. Triumph has also made available over 150 accessories to customize the bike as well as a large clothing range to choose from. Also on offer is three pre-prepared ‘Inspiration Kits’ to transform your Street Twin into a scrambler, flat-track and urban style. The Street Twin will set your bank balance back by a reasonable Kshs 1.1m ex-UK.
QUICK SPECS Engine Type: Type Liquid cooled, 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin
Engine Displacement: 900cc
Bore and Stroke: 84.6 mm and 80 mm
Compression ratio: 10.55:1
Fuel System: Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Exhaust: Brushed stainless steel 2 into 2 exhaust system with twin silencers
Max power: 55 hp @ 5900rpm
Max. torque: 59 ft-lbs @ 3230rpm
Front Suspesion: Kayaba 41mm forks, 120mm travel Rear Suspension: Kayaba twin shocks with adjustable preload, 120mm rear wheel travel
Rake and Trail: 25.1º and 102.4 mm
Front Tires: 100/90-18
Brakes Front: Single 310mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Rear Tires: 150/70 R17
Brakes Rear: Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Dry Weight: 198 Kg
Fuel capacity: 12.1-Litres
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate assist clutch
Seat Height: 750 mm
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WEIRD AND QUIRKY FIRST CARS USED LEVERS, KIND OF LIKE A JOYSTICK, INSTEAD OF A STEERING WHEEL..
DID YOU KNOW THAT WINDSHIELD WIPERS WERE INVENTED BY A WOMAN?
WE HAVE SEEN PREPOSTEROUS STUNTS OF A CAR DRIVING UPSIDE DOWN IN MANY AN ACTION MOVIE. HOWEVER, SCIENCE HAS ASSURED US THAT IT IS INDEED POSSIBLE FOR A CAR TO DRIVE ON THE CEILING. FORMULA ONE RACING CARS ARE DESIGNED WITH INVERTED WINGS WHICH WORK IN THE OPPOSITE FASHION TO AIRCRAFT WINGS—INSTEAD OF GENERATING LIFT, THEY GENERATE DOWNFORCE, WHICH PUSHES THE CAR DOWN AGAINST THE GROUND. THIS DOWNFORCE HAS A VERY PRACTICAL USE BY ALLOWING F1 CARS TO TAKE CORNERS AT A VELOCITY THAT WOULD OTHERWISE SEND THEM FLYING OFF THE ROAD. ALL AN F1 CAR WOULD NEED TO DO TO DRIVE UPSIDE DOWN IS TO GENERATE A DOWNFORCE EQUAL TO OR GREATER THAN ITS OWN WEIGHT. NOW WHO WOULD LIKE TO GIVE THIS PIECE OF SCIENCE A TRY?
THE HEAVIEST LIMOUSINE, “MIDNIGHT RIDER” WEIGHS 50,569 POUNDS AND HOUSES UP TO 40 PASSENGERS, HAS THREE LOUNGES AND A SEPARATE BAR. THIS COULD MAKE FOR A FANTASTIC NAIROBI NIGHT CLUB.
THE KARACHI DEFENSE AUTHORITY CREEK CLUB MANAGED TO FIT 19 PEOPLE INTO A SMART CAR. THAT WAS THE LARGEST AMOUNT OF PEOPLE EVER TO FIT INTO A CAR THAT SIZE.
IT IS ILLEGAL TO SLAM YOUR CAR DOOR IN SWITZERLAND. HOW IS THAT FOR ANGER MANAGEMENT CONTROL?
DID YOU KNOW IT TAKES ABOUT A THIRD OF A SHOT GLASS OF GASOLINE TO START A CAR?
FOR US WHO ASSUMED THAT A HORSE POSSESSES ONE HORSEPOWER, NOPE, THIS IS A MYTH. HORSEPOWER IS A BASIC UNIT OF MECHANICAL POWER THAT MEASURES THE POWER OF YOUR CAR. SOME TECHNICAL ASSESSMENTS OF HORSEPOWER INCLUDE CONVERTING ONE HORSEPOWER INTO 746 WATTS OR 33,000 LBFT OF TORQUE PER MINUTE. BASED ON THESE MEASUREMENTS, A HORSE PRODUCES ONLY 0.7 HORSEPOWER. WHEN AL CAPONE WAS CONVICTED OF TAX EVASION, HIS ARMOR-PLATED LIMO WAS SEIZED BY THE US TREASURY DEPARTMENT. PRESIDENT ROOSEVELT RODE THAT SAME LIMO TO CONGRESS TO DELIVER HIS ‘DECLARATION OF WAR,’ THE DAY AFTER THE 1941 ATTACK ON PEARL HARBOR.
HOLDING A REMOTE CAR KEY TO YOUR HEAD DOUBLES ITS RANGE AS THE HUMAN SKULL ACTS AS AN AMPLIFIER! IMAGINE THAT!
Safety First! How to buy a convertible car seat By Uncle Bob You have a choice of two types of car seat for your baby: an infant car seat or a convertible car seat. A convertible seat converts from a rear-facing seat for babies and toddlers to a forward-facing seat. It carries children from birth to somewhere between 18 and 36 Kg and up to 50 inches tall, depending on the seat. Another type of convertible seat known as a 3-in-1 or all-inone car seat can change from rear-facing to forward-facing, then into a booster seat for children up to 45Kg. (Note: Some “3-in-1” car seats are not for babies. They’re forward-facing only, and convert from car seat for older toddlers to highback booster to backless booster.)
It’s cheaper to buy a convertible car seat for a newborn instead of starting with an infant car seat and then transitioning to a convertible. But experts say young babies are safer in an infant car seat. Many parents say their newborn seems to be swimming in a convertible seat, and they have to use head rests, towels, or other cushioning to prop him safely in place until he grows into the seat. A convertible car seat is also less convenient for you at first: Convertible seats are heavy. And unlike infant car seats, they have to be installed in the car rather than clicked into a base that’s installed in the car – so you can’t easily take them in and out of the car, carry your baby in them, or snap them into a stroller.
Ease of use: Look for the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s five-star rating sys-
tem: The more stars a car seat has, the easier it is to use. The NHTSA ratings take into account how easy it is to install the seat in your car and secure your child in it, as well as the content and clarity of the instruction manual.
A five-point safety harness:
The straps – one for each shoulder, one for each thigh, and one between your baby’s legs – are more adjustable (and thus safer) than older designs.
Easy cleaning: Kids and messes go
hand in hand, but a surprising number of car seats come with covers you can’t take off. A detachable, machine-washable cover makes cleanup much easier.
LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children): Since 2002, all car seats and vehicles have
been compatible with the LATCH system. LATCH allows you to attach the car seat directly to your vehicle instead of using the seat belt to secure it. This can make installation safer and easier. Convertible car seats are equipped with top tether and bottom straps, but the manufacturer may recommend not using the top tether strap in the rear-facing position. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Comfort: A well-padded seat with
plenty of head support gives your baby a better ride.
Side-impact protection: Some car
seats have special energy-absorbing foam and other features designed to better protect your baby’s head and chest in a side-impact accident.
About the author: Uncle Bob is Kenya’s leading child safety expert and has been working with Parents’ to ensure that children who travel in cars are safely secured in an appropriate car seat. Uncle Bob also trains parents on how to properly install and use their childrens’ car seats. You can learn more about Uncle Bob from the following links:
Website: www.unclebobs.co.ke
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UncleBobsStrollers
The Dakar Rally
Stephane Peterhansel cemented his place in the Dakar Rally’s Hall of Fame with a stunning 12th victory in the world’s toughest rally raid event. The Team Peugeot Total driver, who won prestigious events in bike and car categories, drove conservatively in Saturday’s final stage, which was won by team mate Sebastien Loeb. KTM’s Toby Price became the first Australian to capture the bike title with almost 40 minutes between him and secondplaced team mate, Stefan Svitko.
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Frenchman Peterhansel finished over seven minutes behind Loeb in the final stage between Villa Carlos Paz and Rosario. Loeb, driving in his first Dakar after nine World Rally championships, won the stage by over a minute from Mini’s Mikko Hirvonen. It was Peterhansel who was the most relieved to cross the finishing line and add more success to his storied Dakar career. “It’s extraordinary! The pressure was very high, but we came through,” said the 50-year-old.
“Crossing the finish line was a release after the extremely stressful last three days. I’m also delighted to write a new page in the history of Peugeot, because the guys in the team have been working their socks off for two years.” It was Peugeot’s first victory in the Dakar since 1990. While Peterhansel celebrated his 12th career win, Price was even more taken aback by his maiden win. The 28-year-old from New South Wales finished fourth in the final stage, but won overall by 39 minutes 41 seconds from Svitko. “I don’t know what to say, I don’t know what to think... I’m
in shock, I never would’ve thought I could win this race in my second participation.” “This is incredible for my family, my friends and my fans back in Australia!” “Winning in my second participation is awesome, but being the first Australian to win the Dakar is just insane. I would’ve never imagined this two years ago. Finishing the rally is already a triumph!” Source (Red Bull Media) Image Source: Red Bull Media
DRIVEKENYA.CO.KE | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 19
Moto GP
(News Box)
FIM Announces Rossi-Marquez ‘Kick’ Incident Data TO NOT BE RELEASED It is a move meant to quell speculation, but ultimately it will likely have the opposite effect as FIM President Vito Ippolito has announced that race data from Marc Marquez’s Honda clash with Yamaha’s Valentino Rossi will not be released. “During the last competition in Valencia, team Honda informed us that they had all the telemetry relating to the incident. Now the data are in our hands, and Honda and the FIM have decided together not to release them so as not to fuel further polemics,” spoke Ippolito. The move has fueled fervent speculation amongst fans as to what is being hidden in the data.
2016 The 2016 MotoGP season will be the 68th edition. It will span 4 continents, 15 countries and 18 Grand Prix races. Austria returns to the MotoGP calendar after a 19 year break. Over 20 riders from 12 teams from 5 manufacturers (Honda, Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki and Aprilia) will challenge for the title. There will be 9 riders from Spain, 4 from Italy, 3 from the UK and one each from Germany, San Marino, Australia, Ireland, Colombia and France. The youngest rider will be 21 year old Australian, Jack Miller, while the oldest will be Italian legend, Valentino Rossi, who at 37 years, will be challenging for his 10th title. Amongst the manufacturers, Yamaha looks to add to their 65 overall MotoGP victories and close the gap on Honda, who has notched 103 victories.
MotoGP Considering Stewarding Revamp Following last year’s hugely controversial Rossi-Marquez incident, where the race stewards’ decision to penalise Valentino Rossi for apparently kicking Marc Marquez, had an immense impact on the championship finale. MotoGP promoter Dorna, which came under intense criticism for behaving like a “Spanish mafia”, has decided that it will not be part of the sanctioning body anymore, once the Grand Prix Commission approves the proposals for a new stewarding structure.
Casey Stoner Returns as Ducati Test Driver Former two-time MotoGP World Champion, Casey Stoner, has quashed speculation that he will be making wildcard appearances for Ducati this season. While his role officially covers a “selected number of MotoGP tests”, rumours have been rife that he will race in the 2016 season. Moto sprint quoted Stoner as saying, “I’m perfectly aware that if I wanted to race, Ducati would put everything at my disposal immediately, but for now, we have only defined a test plan.” He added, “Before going beyond that, I want to see how testing goes. At that point we’ll decide.” Ducati has not won a race since Stoner won at his home Australian Grand Prix in 2010.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
F1
(News Box)
F1 Drivers Pushing for Increased Cockpit Protection
Honda Boosts McLaren Engine by 223-hp?
F1 Grand Prix Drivers’ Association Chairman Alexander Wurz recently said that drivers had unanimously agreed on the “swift implementation” of head protection. The BBC reported that F1 drivers are backing a device known as the ‘Halo’, which involves two curved arms stretching forward from the back of the cockpit and arching around to meet at the front, where a vertical strut supports the structure and provides some protection from flying debris. These measures are in response to the death of former Marussia driver, Jules Bianchi, who died in July 2014, as a result of severe head injuries sustained in the Japanese Grand Prix. Just a month later, Jules Wilson, a former F1 driver, was killed after being struck by flying debris at an IndyCar race in the US. “The research the FIA experts have done is very thorough and the process has brought forward a clear solution,” Wurz was quoted as saying.
Honda has reportedly found an extra 223-hp by working 24/7 on their engine throughout the winter, according to the Spanish tabloid newspaper AS. Given that McLaren were thought to be down by 70-150hp on Mercedes last season, this would signify a huge leap in performance and would definitely see them pushed to the front, after a dismal 2015. According to detailed analysis by Sky Sports, of the speed trap readings at the opening 10 Grand Prix of the 2015 season, McLaren were found to be an average of 13.3kph off the pace. Their straight-line speed was found to be 28kph slower on the straights. Honda has since, denied the speculation on the huge engine improvements.
Italian Grand Prix Survives The Italian GP is set to remain on the F1 racing calendar until 2020 or 2023. It required the personal intervention of Italian Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi, to secure a deal with F1 Supremo. F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone had warned organisers that it could lose its place on the calendar if increased hosting fees, which are believed to be around €25m annually were not accepted when the current contract runs out in 2016. It is now understood that the track will receive a $4.5 Million upgrade to make it more competitive and also to potentially attract MotoGP.
Higher Performance Tyres F1 Drivers are also pushing for faster and more reliable tyres. Drivers agreed to, “help and support Pirelli to construct a tyre fit for maximum-attack racing”, quoted Alexander Wurz. Since 2011, Pirelli’s remit in F1 has been to produce tyres that are fragile, hence promoting pit-stops. Wurz spoke out on behalf of the drivers who wanted rubber that can allow them to push flat-out throughout a race. He noted that cornering is now 30mph slower than it was in 2009. Wurz categorically stated that, “The drivers want to underline very clearly that they would love Pirelli to produce a tyre which goes faster around corners as well as being safe.”
Redbull media
WRC Monte Carlo Sebastien Ogier achieved a childhood ambition by winning Rallye Monte-Carlo for a third consecutive season. The Frenchman joined an exclusive club of drivers to have won the legendary event, the opening round of the 2016 FIA World Rally Championship, three times in a row. Only Sandro Munari, Walter Röhrl, Tommi Mäkinen and Sébastien Loeb have done likewise. Ogier, who was born in the rally base of Gap, was greeted by his parents at the finish of the final speed test in the mountains above Monaco, to celebrate a 1min 54.5sec victory in his Volkswagen Polo R. Team-mate Andreas Mikkelsen finished second with Thierry Neuville, overcoming transmission troubles to secure a debut podium for Hyundai’s new-specification i20, a further 1min 23.4sec back. “This rally is the most important of the season for me and it’s so emotional to win here for a third time,” said Ogier. “I’ve been dreaming of this since I was a kid. To win such a difficult rally three times in a row is fantastic, and a real team effort from everyone.” Mikkelsen made it a 1-2 for Volkswagen Ogier and Kris Meeke swapped the lead on several occasions during the first two days on mountain roads in the French Alps that ranged from clear asphalt to snow and ice. Ogier edged clear in the third leg and the outcome was decided
when Meeke damaged his gearbox after hitting a rock and retired. Ogier eased through the final leg, which included the famous Col de Turini, one of the highlights of the WRC season, and ensured maximum points from the first of the 14 rounds by winning the final live TV Power Stage. Norwegian Mikkelsen survived a high-speed spin on Friday, to start the final leg 12.5sec ahead of Neuville, but a broken prop shaft bearing, troubled the Belgian all day and he limped through the final stage with only a two-wheel drive. Mads Østberg finished fourth in a Ford Fiesta RS on his return to the M-Sport squad, ahead of Stéphane Lefebvre, for whom fifth was a career-best result. Dani Sordo overcame handling and suspension problems to complete the top six in another i20. Ott Tänak finished seventh, despite rolling on Friday. WRC 2 winner, Elfyn Evans, Esapekka Lappi and Armin Kremer completed the top 10. Broken suspension sidelined Jari-Matti Latvala and Bryan Bouffier, while Robert Kubica and Eric Camilli both retired after accidents. The championship heads to Karlstad for Rally Sweden (11 -14 February), the only pure winter round of the championship. Source: (Red Bull Media)
WRC Calender 2016
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