The lifestyle Magazine for independent garages
AUTUMN/WINTER 2016
MAGAZINE BUY A USED CAR TAKE UP RUNNING EAT HEALTHIER AND MORE...
SAM TORDOFF
PLUS MANCAVE MAKEOVERS 2016 ROUNDUP A-Z OF CHRISTMAS SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHTS HYBRID TRAINING
EXCLUSIVE
ASHLEY BANJO PREPARES HIS TROUPE FOR THEIR 2017 GENESIS TOUR WHAT MIDLIFE CRISIS? EMBRACE THE INEVITABLE & BAG THE RIGHT MOTOR
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Editor’s letter Winter has come around quickly again this year, as has this latest edition of IGNITION magazine.
Garage Network Growth
Sam the Man
Lead generating network for independent garages, ApprovedGarages.co.uk, hits new heights and continues to drive forward.
British Touring Car 2016 runner-up talks to IGNITION about his performance, his team and family background before celebrating his incredible 2016 season.
10 Ashley Banjo has got to dance An exclusive interview with the incredibly talented Ashley Banjo about his dance troupe, the upcoming 2017 UK tour and his TV presenting.
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06 Exclusive Brands Take a look at the exclusive brands available from your local GROUPAUTO motor factor aimed to improve your bottom line.
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As the year draws to a close, in the automotive industry, we all keep our fingers crossed for the predicted cold snap and worst winter in 50 years, so we can all “enjoy” a fruitful season in business; especially in the wake of the referendum result that has seen the weakening of the pound. Brexit will mark 2016 in history, for better or worse, and on page 28, we take a look back at the other stand-out moments of this rollercoaster year! In addition, this Winter edition of IGNITION magazine brings you an exclusive insight into our cover star and Diversity dance troupe main man, choreographer and TV presenter, Ashley Banjo, as he tells us of his future plans. We also catch up with British Touring Car runner-up Sam Tordoff, debate on what car is ideal for a ‘mid-life crisis’, look at the most wanted Christmas gifts for kids and just to get into the new year mood, we provide tips on everything from eating healthier to redecorating your pad. We’re also packed to the brim this edition with GROUPAUTO approved supplier features, which include: Wix Filtration, Total UK, Mintex brakes, NGK spark plugs, TJ Filters, Lucas Electrical, Mahle, Denso, Gates and Platinum Batteries. Finally, we’d love for you to support ‘HatsOn4Ben’ on November 10th 2016 to help our industry charity BEN raise money and awareness around mental health – read more about this on page 22. Have a great festive break and enjoy this Winter issue! Find your local GROUPAUTO motor factor today at www.groupauto.co.uk/distributor. Chris Chaplin GROUPAUTO
Get in touch: @GarageIgnition
2016 Recap We take a look back at what the year had to offer – and what a year it has been!
Christmas Leftovers
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Superb ideas on how to take your Xmas day dinner leftovers and serve up something delicious during the holidays.
marketing@groupauto.co.uk
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CHASES Nothing gets the adrenaline pumping quite like a good car chase. Screeching tyres, insane stunts and crumpled metal - is there anything better? IGNITION magazine takes a look at some of the most iconic car chases to grace the silver screen.
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RONIN 1998 The high speed chase through the scenic streets of Paris sees De Niro and Reno in hot pursuit of Natascha McElhone. Intense camera angles, over 300 stunt drivers and piles of wreckage give the full-blooded chase real drama.
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BLUES BROTHERS 1980 The notorious mall car chase scene was utter chaos. A world-record at the time, we saw 103 cars wrecked during filming. The mall infact, was a real shopping centre that had closed down just before filming. The wrecked mall sat untouched until 2012 when it was finally torn down. Comedy value made the scene a real fan-favourite.
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IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
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THE ITALIAN JOB 1969 Probably the most iconic car chase ever. This movie is the reason why the Mini Cooper is so popular. Michael Caine and co. speed around the streets of Turin chased by the Italian Rozzers. Truly British - the red, white and blue Minis nip through small gaps and over seemingly unpassable terrain, all whilst carrying a shedload of gold bullion. The scene has a literal cliff hanger for an ending too.
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GONE IN 60 SECONDS 1974 The original movie featured some of the most desirable motors of the time, none more so than ‘Eleanor’, the 1973 Ford Mustang. In total, 93 cars were destroyed throughout filming and during the 40 minute chase scene - Eleanor flies 30ft through the air... the film is so iconic, it warranted a remake, with Eleanor stealing the limelight once more. A great film for car lovers.
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THE FRENCH CONNECTION 1971 Possibly the most intense five minutes in car chase movie history. The famous scene features Jimmy Doyle (Hackman) giving chase in a 1971 Pontiac LeMans, burning rubber through NYC as the bad guy attempts a getaway on the elevated train above him. The scene wasn’t fully choreographed and no permits were obtained from the city. Real life pedestrians and motorists were put in harms way - which all added to the sense of drama and realism that makes the scene so great.
Did you know? The film was based on a true story. Many of the officers involved in the real case helped to control traffic during the car chase scene.
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BULLITT 1968 Bullitt boasts the greatest car chase in movie history. The coolest man ever to grace Hollywood’s screens, Steve McQueen, hurtles down the tram track lined hills of San Francisco in his 1968 Ford Mustang GT, hotly pursued by a pair of hitmen. The chase comes to a grizzly end, when the hitmen smash into a gas station and are engulfed in a fireball. Unrivalled and never surpassed, Bullitt remains the most iconic car chase in movie history and the benchmark for all future movie car chases. Just awesome.
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Parts is where it starts. Your local GROUPAUTO motor factor has access to exclusive quality brands for all your car parts requirements.
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01. OE Engine Management • Air Mass Sensors • EGR Valves • Ignition Coils • Cam, Crank & Knock Sensors • Wheel Speed Sensors • Lambda Sensors
01 White
Clear
Key Points: • All products are from quality OE suppliers • Competitive pricing • Single source for all engine management product • OE product in branded packaging
04. OE Diesel Systems • Common rail diesel fuel injection & Conventional diesel pumps and injectors
02. Nordschleife
03. ROTEK
• Shock absorbers • Water pumps • Wheel bearings
• Starters & Alternators
Key Points: • High quality products at a cost • Conscious price point • Exclusive to GROUPAUTO motor factors • 30,000 miles guarantee
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Key Points: • The range covers a wide range of popular vehicles • Exclusively through GROUPAUTO • Units are backed by a 2 year, 20,000 mile warranty • No surcharge, no old unit return • UK based technical helpline
IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
Key Points: • Bringing OE standards to the Aftermarket • 100% replacement of critical wear parts • 100% use of genuine OE component parts • 100% testing of every remanufactured unit • End user Technical Support Hotline • OE product in branded packaging
A wide range of retail and refinish brands all under one roof. Refinish Suppliers
Car Care Suppliers
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Accessories & Tools
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06. 05. DRI
Consumables Suppliers
• Calipers • Steering racks • Pumps Key Points: • Wide product range • High quality distribution of remanufactured auto parts • Tested individually to OE standards • DRI offers a full two year warranty
06. Le Mans • Batteries Key Points: • High performance • Maintenance free • Quality assured • Only available to GROUPAUTO motor factors • 3 Year warranty
For more information on these brands please contact your local GROUPAUTO parts distributor: www.groupauto.co.uk
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MAHLE INSIDE
Picture credits: see imprint
Supplier Spotlight
POWER In the spotlight: the Maserati Levante.
EX WORKS
MASERATI LEVANTE: THE SPORTS CAR OF SUVS The Italian legend is aiming to get into the fast lane again with the Levante: the first cross-country vehicle from Maserati is expected to become the brand’s best-selling model. In the spring of 2016, CEO Harald Wester already received four-figure “blind” orders. Dealerships and test drivers are raving about it: the Levante drives like a sports car on stilts—and its price lies in the Cayenne range. SILK IN SERIES An elegant rear, sleek side profile, and aggressive front with its deep gaping maw of a grille—this is how the Levante presents itself from a purely outward perspective. In the cabin, the Maserati appears somewhat dignified, with large areas of leather and—a first in series production—silk fabrics by Zegna. The infotainment and assistance systems are practical and are complemented by a 360-degree camera. ATTENTION-GRABBING SOUND Right from the start the Levante shows what it’s made of: the roaring sound emanating from the valve-controlled exhaust of the six-cylinder is second to none. Its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and top speed of 264 km/h are also practically unheard of in this class. The turbocharged engine puts out 316 kW (430 HP) and delivers 580 Nm of torque. MAHLE supports the power pack with pistons, piston rings, valve seat inserts, valve guides, cylinder heads, air filters, air conditioners, condensers, cooling modules, and thermostats.
MAHLE PRODUCTS ARE USED IN VEHICLES AND ENGINES FROM THESE BRANDS:
Alfa Romeo, Alpina, AMG, Ashok Leyland, Aston Martin, Audi, AvtoVAZ, Bajaj, Beiqi Foton, Bentley, BMW, Bombardier-Rotax, Brilliance, Bugatti, Buick, BYD, Cadillac, Case, Caterpillar, Changan, Chaoyang Diesel, Chery, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Citroën, CLAAS, CNHTC, Cummins, Dacia, DAF, Daihatsu, Dalian Diesel, Detroit Diesel, Deutz, Dodge, Dongan, Dongfeng, Doosan Infracore, DPCA, Ducati, Eicher Motors, Embraco, Escorts, FAW, FAW-Volkswagen, Ferrari, FIAT, Force Motors, Ford, Freightliner, Fuso, GAZ, Geely, General Motors, GMDAT, Great Wall, Harley-Davidson, HATZ, Hindustan Motors, Hino, Hitachi, Holden, Honda, Hummer, Husqvarna, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, JCB, Jeep, JMC, John Deere, KAMAZ, Kia, Komatsu, Kubota, Lamborghini, Lancia, Land Rover, Lexus, Liebherr, Liuji, Lycoming Engines, Mack Trucks, Mahindra & Mahindra, MaK, MAN, Maruti Suzuki, Maserati, Mazda, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Mitsubishi He avy Industries, MTU, MWM International, Navistar International, Neoplan, New Holland, Nissan, Opel, Otosan, Paccar, Perkins, Peugeot, Piaggio, Polaris, Pontiac, Porsche, Proton, Qingling Motors, Renault, Renault Trucks, Rolls-Royce, Rotax, SAIC, SAME, Samsung, Scania, Scion, SEAT, SEMT, SGM, SGMW, Shanghai Diesel, Sisu, Škoda, Smart, SsangYong, Steyr, Stihl, Subaru, Suzuki, SVW, Tata Motors, Tecumseh, Teledyne Continental Motors, Tognum, Toyota, Triumph, UD Trucks, Vauxhall, VM Motori, Volkswagen, Volvo, Volvo Penta, Volvo Trucks, Waukesha Engine, Weichai Power, Wuxi Diesel, Yamaha, YaMZ, Yangzhou Diesel, Yanmar, Youngman, Yulin Diesel, Yunnei, ZMZ.
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IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
1 A4 ALLROAD QUATTRO The new version of the A4 all-road vehicle contains technology that the Ingolstadt-based company wants to gradually introduce into other models. “Ultra” technology means that the two rear wheels normally run along decoupled and the Quattro mode is only switched on during fast cornering, supposedly reducing fuel consumption by 0.3 L. The new A4 Allroad has six engine types—one petrol and five diesel—with power outputs ranging from 110 kW (150 HP) to 200 kW (272 HP). On-board components from MAHLE: pistons, connecting rods, piston rings, piston pins, bearing bushings and liners, valves, air intake modules, oil filter modules, HVAC controllers, and air conditioners.
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2 MINI CONVERTIBLE Although the fun British car has grown 98 mm in length, 44 mm in width, and 7 mm in height, the new generation is still very much a MINI. This is particularly evident in the Convertible’s luggage compartment, whose capacity of 215 L can hold 25% more, although this is reduced to 160 L when the top is down. This now opens both faster and more quietly in 18 seconds. The MINI Rain Warner app in the infotainment system. MAHLE contributes to the driving pleasure with its pistons, circlips, connecting rods, piston rings, piston pins, valves, valve covers, oil mist separators, oil filter modules, oil pumps, HVAC controllers, condensers, coolant radiators, engine fans, intercoolers, cooling modules, wastegate actuators, and EPS motors.
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3 MERCEDES SLC Owing to its technical proximity to the C-Class, the popular SLK roadster was rechristened SLC and given a facelift. It now boasts new headlights, a standard diamond grille, revamped apron, and a larger, 7-inch infotainment screen in the cabin, for example. Needless to say, when it comes to having sporty fun in the new SLC, it’s what’s under the bonnet that really counts. 115 kW (156 HP) through to the AMG SLC 43 version with 270 kW (367 HP). And from MAHLE: pistons, piston pins, camshafts, valves, valve guides, valve seat inserts, air filters, air guides, oil mist separators, air intake modules, oil coolers, oil filter modules, oil filters, air conditioners, and intercoolers.
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VW T6 PANAMERICANA The Wolfsburg-based company has developed a PanAmericana version of their Transporter T6 for longer distances. And it has several new innovations to
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-road, the front and rear bumpers have a scratch-resistant coating as well as a designer underride guard at the front and rear. For the first time ever, the T6 is available as a front wheel drive as well as a four-wheel drive. As a 2.0 L twin-turbo diesel, it delivers 150 kW (204 HP). The contribution from MAHLE: pistons, connecting rods, piston pins, valves, oil filter modules, air conditioners, coolant radiators, and intercoolers.
5 NISSAN NP300 NAVARA PICK-UP
The Japanese have remoulded the fourth generation of their mini-pick-up—in terms of the frame, chassis, steering, transmission, and engine—and want to turn the work truck into a lifestyle car. Nevertheless, the NP300 Navara is more than capable of carrying a 1-ton payload and pulling a 3.5-ton trailer load. In addition to lots of chrome on the radiator grille and a great deal of technology in the cockpit, the most important innovation is the double cab’s rear axle: a coil spring -road. Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 2.3 L four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with the option of either 118 kW (160 HP) or 140 kW (190 HP). MAHLE contributes pistons, circlips, piston pins, valves, valve seat inserts, valve covers, fuel filters, fuel filter modules, exhaust gas recirculation, and intercoolers.
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5 Picture credits: see imprint
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DIVER 10
RSITY ASHLEY BANJO LEADER AND
CHOREOGRAPHER OF THE DYNAMIC STREET DANCE TROUPE DIVERSITY, SPENT TIME WITH IGNITION MAGAZINE AT THE GROUPS STUDIO WHERE TRAINING IS IN FULL FLOW IN PREPARATION FOR THEIR UK TOUR IN APRIL 2017
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THE TROUPE
Ashley Banjo, Jordan Banjo (Ashley's younger brother), Sam Craske, Mitchell Craske, Ian McNaughton, Jamie McNaughton, Matthew McNaughton, Perri Kiely, Warren Russell, Ike Ezekwugo and Terry Smith.
ince stealing the limelight on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent television series back in 2009, going on to beat Susan Boyle in the finale, the group have gone on to achieve phenomenal success. Individual members of Diversity have enjoyed huge success in their own right.
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Ashley Banjo became a judge on Sky 1’s Got To Dance for five series. Being a natural on television led to the creation of the television show Ashley Banjo’s Secret Street Crew. Ashley most recently co-hosted Can’t Touch This with Zoe Ball.
Diversity 2017 Tour ‘Genesis’
EXCLUSIVE Q&A WITH ASHLEY
Diversity will embark on their seventh UK tour during 2017, Genesis. The tour will be their biggest and best yet as they revisit arenas around the country.
How often do you see your troupe? (train / socialise)
Perri Kiely also proved to be a favourite on television and starred on ITV’s Splash, which sees celebrities learn to dive and compete against each other. Perri went on to be crowned the winner.
We see each other pretty much everyday. We train at the studio 6 days a week and when we are rehearsing for a performance its 7 days a week! It can be quite full on but we have grown up with each other so its strange if I don’t see the boys for a few days! Has Perri and Mitchell growing up (taller) made it trickier to choreograph your shows?
The Genesis Tour has been created by Ashley Banjo. With brand new choreography, the shows will continue their hero fantasy epic which was part of their Limitless: The Reboot tour. Diversity’s 2017 tour dates follow six sell-out tours, including 2015’s 31 date Up Close and Personal tour. Genesis will be an incredible show for previous Diversity fans as well as those who have never seen the troupe perform live before.
No! [he laughs] Perri and Mitchell were only 13 and 12 years old when we won Britain’s Got Talent so it was easy to throw them around in our acrobatic tricks in the routines. We have had to rework things as Perri especially has got so much taller! Although as they have gotten taller they also got stronger and they can physically do more as well so it works! How old were you when you started dance? I was 5 years old when I first started dancing. My Mum and Dad had a dance studio and my mum was the principle
teacher. At first I wouldn’t do the lessons but when I was 5 I decided to give it a go and the rest is history! What dance styles did you start with/prefer? I started with street dance and gradually learned more specific street dance styles, but as my mum was a classically trained ballet dancer she also taught us ballet basics and stretching from a young age. Who inspired you growing up? There are so many people who inspired me growing up! Everyone from Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire and the Nicholas Brothers through to Elvis and obviously Michael Jackson. He was a huge influence for me as I would watch his music videos as a
You co-present Can’t Touch This. Is it fun to work on? Can’t Touch This was such a fun show to work on! We had such a good time filming it, Zoe and I were crying with laughter at the contestants as they tried to tackle the course, there were some brilliant moments! How do you get on with Zoe (Ball) and Sue (Perkins)? Zoe and Sue are both legends so it was great that they were both on the show. Zoe and I obviously spent a lot of time together presenting the show and she is brilliant, when we weren’t laughing at the contestants we were laughing at each other!
I’VE ALWAYS BEEN A SECRET SCIENCE GEEK
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child and try and emulate them. We even had a video tape with all of his greatest music videos on which me and my brother Jordan would watch for hours. He was arguably the greatest showman that we have known, his energy, performances and music was incredible and such an inspiration for me personally. Have you ever thought about giving up? Everyone has moments where they think about taking the easier option but I love what I do too much and I can’t imagine not doing it, even when it gets really tough. You have put together the choreography for your own tours, the Royal Variety Show and also last year’s Britain’s Got Talent final. What’s the best choreography project you have put together? That’s a really hard question as we have been lucky enough to do so many special performances. But I think it would have to be the BGT final back in 2009. Not only was that the routine that beat Susan Boyle, but we were so much younger then, without any real experience of being on TV or in the public eye. I Just choreographed what ever I loved to do, earlier that year I’d watched the Transformers film for the first time and I was mesmerised! And the routine I choreographed off the back of it happened to be a routine that was good enough to win us Britain’s Got talent! And I had no idea! So the nature of how that routine came together I think will always make it special for me.
Have you tried the course? If so, how did you do?
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We are in the automotive sector so obviously have to ask you questions around cars and some other ‘non dance’ related questions; What was your first car? Fiat Punto
I was dying to get on the course the whole time we were filming but sadly I wasn’t allowed! Although I may have snuck n a few of the obstacles when everyone was distracted at the wrap party…
What car do you currently own? Audi RS3
Is it right that you are a qualified scientist?
Will you be travelling in a tour bus together? Yes, I actually quite like the Diversity Tour bus!
I’ve always been a secret science geek and I was studying Physics and Biology at university when we won BGT in 2009. Any plans to start studying again or go in to this line of work in the future? I am definitely going to finish my degree in the future. Its something that personally, I really want to complete.
What would be your dream car? Aston Martin DB5
Favourite holiday destination? Maldives Clothing brand of choice? Vivienne Westwood
April 2017 Tour dates and venues: 11th 12th 14th 15th 16th 18th 19th 21st 22nd 23rd
The SSE Hydro, Glasgow Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham The O2, London First Direct Arena, Leeds Manchester Arena Brighton Centre Bournemouth International Centre Cardiff Motorpoint Arena Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena Newcastle Metro Radio Arena
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e h t r fo r a e y g in k a re b Record
k r o w t e N s e g ra a G d e Approv
ceeded projected ex s ha uk o. s.c ge ra Ga ed ov pr Ap 16 In 20 rs of new service, be m nu rd co re d te ra ne ge d an ns io expectat ndent garages. MOT and repair enquiries for indepe
over
39,000 leads across the network
equating to 5 leads per month per garage*
more than
270,000 web visitors throughout 2016*
*Jan-Oct 2016 Approved Garages continuously endeavours to raise brand awareness and visibility, to give network garages the best chance to gain as many leads as possible each month. The network is over 750 garages strong and is generating more than 5 leads per garage per month, thanks to online search spend, advertising, branding and sponsorship packages.
SPONSORSHIP SUCCESS FOR
APPROVED GARAGES Sponsorship of events helps to raise the profile of the Approved Garages brand pulling in huge volumes of traffic to the website each month. It has also improved Approved Garages’ social media activity, allowing fans and users to engage with the brand on a more personal level.
Grass roots football sponsorship to target players’ parents
Sponsorship bullseye for the third year running
Approved Garages proudly sponsors the NERF Junior Premier League (JPL). This presented the network an excellent opportunity to be involved in helping young footballers, by becoming the new sponsor for JPL Regional Talent Centres as well as getting exposure at their Central Venue Fixture programmes.
Approved Garages has seen incredible results from sponsoring the world’s biggest darts league for the past two years and the garage network brand will be present again at the 2017 Premier League Darts starting in February 2017.
The partnership with Junior Premier League started with their first round of matches in August 2016 and will run until the end of their season in May 2017. Since its conception in 2011-12, the JPL has grown to more than 80 clubs and over 300 teams with multiple age groups from u10 to u18, which represent 22 County FA Regions. Thanks to the sponsorship, Approved Garages have been able to raise brand awareness with the parents of the players through experiential events, content marketing, social media campaigns and much more. The Approved Garages logo has been printed on all the JPL football kits, and also on over 200 match reports each week. There’s also a fully branded Approved Garages sponsor page on the JPL website (pictured right).
Join in on social
This opportunity puts the Approved Garages brand in front of hundreds of thousands of people that follow the sport and attend the arena events each week. Betway Premier League Darts, the UK & Ireland's biggest indoor sporting event, sees ten of the most recognisable PDC darts players compete in packed arenas across 16 weeks for a share of a £750,000 prize fund.
Photo courtesy of Lawrence Lustig/PDC
Rugby advertising converts well for Approved Garages Approved Garages have advertising rights with First Utility Super League Rugby during the 2016-17 season. As a result, the brand gains excellent exposure during 15 televised games, with pitch side advertising boards that are clearly visible to the fans and TV viewers during the games.
Twitter: @approvedgarages Facebook: www.facebook.com/approvedgarages Instagram: @approved_garages
To keep abreast of all our latest Betway Premier League Darts’, First Utility Super League and Nerf Junior Premier League news including views and competitions, follow us on social media:
Pinterest: @approved_garages YouTube: Approved Garages
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Have you always dreamed of having a man cave, a place where you can unwind and relax at the end of the day? Well look no further, IGNITION Magazine are here to help you build your perfect space, and fill it with all the essentials you need. From slippers to the perfect chair we take a look at all the amazing things you can kit your man cave out with.
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IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
06.
01. Samsung 48 Inch Full HD Smart Curved TV
A man cave essential. A huge TV! Perfect for watching the big game with your pals or even to watch your favourite movies on. Curved TV’s are the next big thing with deeper, cleaner viewing and super fast performance. Where: Argos Price: £529.00
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02. SEGA Megadrive With 80 Built-In Games.
Relive your youth with some classic video game action, with the SEGA Megadrive. Including 80 games built-in, you can dive straight back into the action. The console is compatible with SEGA Mega Drive cartridges. Where: Argos Price: £49.99
03. Slipperland Men’s Slippers
These Men’s boot slippers are perfect when you want the comfort but don’t want to borrow your wife’s pink slippers. Made to look like men’s walking boots, these are guaranteed to still make you look manly whilst walking around in your man cave. Where: Amazon Price: £13.90
04. Philips Perfect Draft Machine Your own bar! Sort of....This perfect pint machine pours cold, refreshing beer everytime with the built in beer cooler. Get pouring! Where: www.drinksshop.co.uk Price: £250.00
05. Slazenger Indoor Foldable Table Tennis Table
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For when you and your mates fancy a game, the foldable design is easily assembled and provides hours of entertainment. Can also be used as a beer pong table for the weekend! Where: Argos Price: £149.99
06. Vintage Movie Posters
Add a bit of colour to your man cave with these vintage posters. With 100s of choices available you’re sure to find your favourite movie poster. Where: Amazon Price: From £6.00
07. Madison Leather Recliner Armchair
Another essential; your man chair. Providing supreme comfort and durability, this is the perfect chair to relax in with a cold drink. Where: Amazon Price: £179.99 www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition
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Supplier Spotlight
How Mintex braked to success ince its launch in 1959, MINI has continued to positively impact the automotive industry. Designed by the legendary Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini, which originally braked with Mintex, has also heavily influenced pop culture. Mintex has again been chosen by MINI to help brake its new limited edition John Cooper Works Challenge vehicle, continuing a relationship spanning more than 60 years. Originally created as a solution to the fuel shortage in the mid-1950s, the Mini’s humble beginnings went through a number of different variants, including the Mini pickup and the Mini van, before John Cooper saw its potential for competition. John Cooper, owner of the Cooper Car Company, which helped renowned race drivers such as Stirling Moss, Jack Brabham and Bruce Mclaren achieve great success in motorsport, worked with his
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friend, Issigonis, to create the Mini Cooper, which debuted in 1961. Differentiating themselves from the large cars being manufactured elsewhere, the Mini Cooper’s popularity led to some of the 1960s biggest stars and petrolheads, such as Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Steve McQueen and the great Enzo Ferrari, owning the vehicle. Its reputation as being the true pioneer of the swinging sixties was further enhanced, as a result of featuring in the 1969 classic film, The Italian Job, where the car, driven by Michael Caine as Charlie Croker, embarked on one of the greatest car chase scenes in Hollywood history. As well as featuring on the silver screen, the vehicle became a Marque in its own right in 1969 until 1980, when it was renamed the Austin Mini and, later in the decade, the Rover Mini following a buyout. However, the partnership with
IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
Mintex continued throughout, with the brake manufacturer providing brake shoes for the Austin. A number of special edition Minis were released throughout the late 80s and 90s, and its legacy as an all-time great was officially secured at the turn of the millennium. Overseen by the Global Automotive Elections Foundation, the Mini was voted the second greatest car of the 20th century, just behind the Ford Model T. The MINI marque was relaunched by BMW Group in 2001. Technically unrelated, the new MINI has showcased the brand to a new audience to great acclaim. Continuing the brand’s popularity, celebrity figures such as Madonna, Britney Spears and Wayne Rooney have all owned the new reincarnations, and the vehicles were used in Mark Wahlberg’s remake of The Italian Job.
Basic requirement for every repair
The MINI’s historic influence remains today, and still has a great impact on current pop culture. Both the new and old versions of the vehicle were heavily featured in the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics. Not only this, but quarter scale MINIs were used to retrieve javelins, shot putts and hammers thrown during the competition. And it’s not just road vehicles where Mintex has supplied MINI components; both brands have established and unrivalled reputations within motorsport. With Mintex braking a number of historic vehicles throughout history and Mini winning a number of renowned racing competitions such as the Monte Carlo Rally, Australia Endurance and the European Touring Car Championships, the two brands combined their racing prowess in the popular MINI Challenge series. The MINI Challenge has provided the best MINI racing in the UK since 2002, and is part of a family of racing championships run across Europe. Racing in vehicles with the same specification, all MINIs are braked with Mintex. The MINI Challenge race series has continued to see a growing popularity, and highlights are now being aired on terrestrial television. This increase in appeal has led to a number of touring car teams and racers, including current Touring Car driver, Jeff Smith, being involved in the championship.
Clean all components and then lubricate the necessary points in the area of the pad / liner guide shafts, as well as the contact points of the brake shoes with a non-conductive, high temperature-resistant, solids-free (metal-free) paste suitable for ABS vehicles (Mintex Cera Tec).
Do not use copper paste! All worn and damaged components are to be replaced in strict accordance to vehicle, system and brake manufacturers’ guidelines.
Following of the instructions helps to avoid technical problems and complaints!
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo petrol Power: 228bhp Torque: 320Nm 0-62mph: 6.3 seconds
When launched in 2002, Mintex’s recognised reputation braking many renowned racing cars made the brand a strong candidate to brake the vehicles in the series. Over the last 14 years, Mintex has consistently performed and ensured that all cars competing in the competition brake as safely and efficiently as possible. Following the growing popularity of the competition, MINI has recently launched a new, limited edition John Cooper Works vehicle, specifically developed for maximum track ability and on-road driving thrills. With just 100 being manufactured, the MINI John Cooper Works Challenge has been inspired by the race cars competing in the MINI Challenge, and features a unique colour combination and graphics. The car is available with one fixed specification and comes exclusively with MINI’s acclaimed 6- speed manual gearbox. The vehicle has been specifically designed and developed to excel on a racing circuit, while maintaining perfectly useable manners on the public road, fuelled by the desire to create a car that truly unlocked the performance potential of the latest MINI Hatch on a racing circuit. Like the MINI Challenge vehicles, the new MINI John Cooper Works Challenge also brakes with Mintex. The new John Cooper Works Challenge vehicle continues a relationship between MINI and Mintex which spans over seven decades between, and continues to enhance the marque’s sustained popularity since the turn of the century.
Contact your local GROUPAUTO distributor for more information about Mintex.
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The 2017 Alpine World Ski Championships will take place in St Moritz, Switzerland in February 2017 located on the historic Olympic site in the Kulm Park (St. Moritz Dorf). It was here that the Ice Skating contests took place in the Olympic Winter Games of 1928 and 1948.
A total of 600 athletes from 70 countries will compete for medals and the title of World Champion in the six disciplines Downhill, Giant Slalom, Super-G, Slalom, Super Combination and in the Team Event.
The competitions for all disciplines run from 6th to 9th February 2017.
Downhill is about speed with athletes travelling over 80mph. Athletes must have an aerodynamically efficient tuck position to minimize drag and increase speed.
The Super-G course consists of widely set gates that racers must turn around. The speeds are much higher than in giant slalom (hence the name). Each athlete only has one run to clock the best time.
A slalom course consists of a series of gates, formed by alternating pairs of red and blue poles. The skier must pass between the two poles forming the gate. A course has 55 to 75 gates for men and 40 to 60 for women.
These races include a single slalom race and either a shorter than normal downhill run or a Super-G race. In the super combined, the times of each race are added together and the fastest total time determines the winner.
The gates in giant slalom are spaced at a greater distance to each other than in slalom but less than in Super-G.
16 countries compete with mixed teams (2 men and 2 women) and 2 by 2 they compete for a downhill. The fastest competitor scores a point for his/her country. The winner is the country which have the highest score at the end of the event.
View all scheduled competitions and dates at www.stmoritz2017.ch/en/
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IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
45º
gradient
3k
m
lo
ng
The legendary “free fall” start of the men’s downhill is the absolute sporting highlight of the Ski Championships 2017 and the steepest start in the world. This masterpiece in St Moritz was built for the World Ski Championships 2003. Bernhard Russi, the Swiss former Downhill World Champion and Olympic Gold Medal Winner, designed and implemented it jointly with the building professionals of the World Ski Championships 2003.
158.423mph 153.530mph
at an altitude of
0-85 2840 metres in 6 secs Set in 2015 by Italian Ivan Origone Set in 2015 by Italian Valentina Greggio
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10
NOV
RAISE YOUR HAT. RAISE SOME MONEY.
Kev
‘THE BEENIE’ Allen
Kim
‘SNAP BACK’ Wilson
Wear a hat to work on 10th November. Donate £1 to Ben and fund support for colleagues facing mental health challenges. Sign up at www.hatson4ben.co.uk #HatsOn4MentalHealth
Lucas
‘THE TRILBY’ Barnes
TCC 2016 runner-up, local Bradford lad and heir to the JCT600 throne SAM TORDOFF, sat down with IGNITION magazine in August to discuss his outstanding 2016 season...
B
Photos courtesy of Jakob Ebrey
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Q&A
WITH SAM
You’ve been competing in the BTCC for 4 years now, which season has been your most memorable and why? Most probably this current season in 2016. I was really proud of my debut season, finishing 6th in the Championship overall back in 2012. But then for the next two years we couldn’t break into that elusive top 5 regularly enough. This year we have made that jump and are now serious title contenders. You’ve led the standings for most of this season, what do you attribute this year’s success to? I am probably more confident and relaxed than I ever have been competing in BTCC. I know my car inside out, I understand how it works and how to get the best from it – that gives me huge confidence. I also have the ability to stay mentally strong and block out negatives. It is very easy to lose the plot when it’s all going against you! What is your favourite circuit on the calendar? Brands Hatch Grand-Prix Circuit. This is the last round of the Championship and so I still have this to look forward to! I am a huge fan of the old school race circuits and we are lucky in the UK to still have these. I love undulations, blind crests, Trees and Brands Hatch has all of this in abundance.
How important is the qualifying race in BTCC, and how does start position tend to affect results? Probably the most important aspect – it can make or break your weekend. With the level of competition so high it can be really difficult to recover from a poor qualifying, not to mention the much higher risk of crashing starting further down the field! The partial reverse grid for race 3 can give you the opportunity to save your weekend if you qualify badly but you don’t want to have to rely on it! Do you prefer to qualify in 1st and lead a race, or chase down the front runners? Definitely lead from the front. Yes it is probably easier to chase but you still have to pass the guy at the front when you get there, which is not always easy! Starting from pole, leading every lap, and winning is definitely the most satisfying in my opinion. You’ve got ten podium positions so far this season, including a race win and two P2 finishes at Oulton Park, that must have been a great weekend. How do you usually celebrate after a race win? I don’t! The same way I don’t get down when it’s not going my way, I rarely get over-excited when it is! I’m very much on one level; win or lose! It also doesn’t help that I am back at work (at JCT600) by 9am Monday morning which doesn’t leave me any time to celebrate! How much of an affect does the success ballast have on performance? It can affect the car a hell of a lot. I am lucky that the BMW is so good carrying
“
He taught me a lot, both on and off the race track, which was really useful as a BTCC rookie.
”
extra weight that my car is probably one of the cars least affected. However during the races, the weight really hurts the tyres and typically the tyre performance will drop away rapidly after half-race distance. To date, who has been your favourite teammate and why? Jason Plato. He taught me a lot both on and off the race track which was really useful as a BTCC rookie. I think the quicker you learn, the quicker and better you’ll be, so in that sense it was great to jump straight in with a teammate of his calibre. What is your opinion on the waiver granted for the Subarus, and their subsequent performances? It is certainly no coincidence that after the waiver was granted they arrived at Oulton Park and qualified on pole! The balancing of performance between cars is always a hot topic and the championship organisers are constantly tweaking things to make performance as equal as it can be. It is better for the Championship to have another manufacturer with Subaru’s heritage at the front as it enhances the credibility of the show and so this is why all the teams agreed for the waiver to be passed. What are your thoughts on hybrid technology in racing, would you like to see motorsport become ‘greener’? I am very cautious. Firstly I don’t think it will arrive in BTCC for a long time due to the costs of this advanced technology. BTCC cars are now significantly cheaper than the days of the Super Tourer’s era and this is why we now have capacity grids every year. Adding hybrid technology could be damaging to that. Secondly, I personally love the noise of an internal combustion engine which I think makes the spectacle what it is – you only have to listen to current F1 cars to see how much that has been ruined! Your Grandfather, Jack Tordoff, was a successful rally driver, how much of an impact does he have on your racing career? He has had a massive impact and probably without his influence I would have never raced at all. Racing always appealed to me more than rallying hence why I chose the path I did, but we talk a lot about the race car and how to get the best from it. He struggles to get to the race meetings now at his age but he is able to watch everything on live television – another big advantage of racing in the BTCC.
continued...
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“
I raced there in a Porsche 911 GT3 and we were sat on the limiter in 6th Gear at 185mph!
”
Tordoff leads the pack at Croft in his JCT600 70th anniversary special edition BMW
If you could compete in any racing event, past or present, what would it be and why? The ultimate race track on the bucket list would have to be Monaco. If I could be a Formula 1 driver for one weekend and race there, absolutely nothing could top that! Sam celebrates another podium positon
What’s the fastest you’ve been in a car and when? This would have to be at the famous Nurburgring Nordschleife along the 2km Dottinger Hohe Straight. I raced there in a Porsche 911 GT3 and we were sat on the limiter in 6th Gear at 185mph! However when it rained on race day it wasn’t as enjoyable then! What does the future hold for Sam Tordoff? I honestly have no idea. My dream was to race in the BTCC and so in that respect I could stop tomorrow and be happy. The World Touring Car Championship does not appeal to me and in many respects, the BTCC is more popular, has better television coverage, more attended and arguably more competitive. I have some fantastically loyal sponsors in the UK and this should (hopefully!) allow me to compete in the BTCC for the foreseeable future.
Photos courtesy of Jakob Ebrey
Quickfire Questions What car do you drive now? BMW M4 Dream car? Ferrari 488 Worst car you’ve owned? Renault Clio Favourite ever racing driver? Ayrton Senna Favourite holiday destination? Barbados Favourite band or musician? It changes weekly! I am currently enjoying Mike Posner’s album. Favourite restaurant? Lone Star - Barbados
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THE TOP TRUCK WORKSHOP
Top Truck workshops have it all; they are part of a large multinational organisation,benefit from a host of business support services and all whilst remaining an independent workshop. Find out why being a Top Truck workshop is great for business…
BRANDING
QUALITY PARTS
The Top Truck network is one of the best in the industry, so as a Top Truck workshop you need to shout about it.
Want to have complete confidence in the parts you fit? One of the main advantages of purchasing via your G-Truck distributor is access to OE Quality parts at cost effective prices.
Top Truck workshops have access to a fully inclusive branding package that includes building signage, vehicle livery, workshop painting, reception desks, as well as branded work wear and stationery.
GROUPAUTO make sure that all approved suppliers to the group provide assurances to the quality and suitability of the components they intend to supply. Being the UK’s largest trading group, they also secure competitive prices for their distributors without compromising on quality.
Funding support is available to help you rebrand your premises and vehicles in the distinctive Top Truck branding.
TOP TRUCK SOS
THE WORKSHOP
As a Top Truck workshop you have automatic access to the worldwide recovery programme through Top Truck SOS.
MARKETING Top Truck has created a comprehensive marketing promotional programme that their workshops can use throughout the year to tell people who they are and what they do: • Branded promotional items and point of sale • material • Template software to create your own material • to advertise your brand and services • On Route Magazine - Commercial Vehicle • magazine distributed through ‘FACTS Magazine’.
Joining the Top Truck network has elevated our business to a different level, giving us a clear brand and image that is recognised as the market leader in independent aftermarket servicing of commercial vehicles.
HTF COMMERCIAL REPAIRS LTD
FLEET MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE In today's digitally demanding world, software has become a must have tool for any workshop. The Blue Crystal Rental Fleet Management System (RFM) allows quick and accurate access to your customer and vehicle records. All data records can be accessed centrally with just a few clicks – no more need for scribbled on wall planners and excel spread sheets.
The aid of having everything going through one operating system has made revisiting old jobs so much easier and retrieving information faster. Gone are the days of trawling through countless old invoices or spreadsheets. Chris Elliott, Lufton Commercials
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TOP TRUCK TRAINING The Top Truck partnership works both ways, although we are still 100% independent we benefit from the group infrastructure and image which benefits small businesses. The corporate clothing is great and we are proud to be part of a larger team. Conversely, Top Truck is strengthened by companies like HTF and the resource that we bring to the network. David Moore, HTF Commercial Repairs.
With a shortage of skilled technicians in the industry, possibly the greatest string to a Top Truck workshop’s bow is the comprehensive training available through the programme.
Technical training Top Truck workshops are encouraged to follow a comprehensive and ongoing technical training programme with leading training providers. This programme not only provides technicians with technical expertise but also effective tools for managing their businesses.
irtec Licensing Scheme
BUSINESS SERVICES Have you looked at the amount of money you are spending on insurance? Do you have the best deal on your utilities, vans or courtesy vehicles? You could be getting the best deal on all those things. Thanks to the buying power of the network you can benefit from savings on everything from tool hire to waste removal services.
One of the most popular benefits of the Top Truck programme is the Institute of Road Transport Engineers’ (IRTE) irtec Licensing Scheme. An irtec license certifies the skills, safety and technical competence of garage technicians in line with the requirements of the industry. Top Truck ensures that all of their workshops commit their technicians to becoming irtec accredited within six months of joining the scheme.
Apprenticeship Programme The Top Truck Apprenticeship Programme gives workshops the platform to train and develop their staff in line with what the market demands of them. The programme is fully supported by GROUPAUTO and approved supplier Valeo, so all it will cost you is their weekly wage whilst they are working in the workshop.
RECEPTION
All the support from Top Truck has helped us gain new repair and servicing contracts as many customers now want the assurances that the IRTEC assessments and ongoing training gives. Top Truck allows us to be a top level independent repair business while giving us all the benefits of a nationally recognised group. Carl Haslam, Haslam Commercials.
SPONSORSHIP We are proud sponsors of Luke Taylor, the Rooster Racing Team in the British Truck Racing Championship (BTRC) for the 2016 season. Luke races in Division one and with a number of podium places under his belt this season, we have seen the benefits of the sponsorship with new customers using Top Truckworkshops for their vehicle repair & maintenance, and independent workshop interested in joining the programme. Follow us: www.gtruck.co.uk/racing
To find out more about TOP TRUCK, contact Martin Sangster on 07920 573548. Or visit www.gtruck.co.uk/distributors to find your local G-TRUCK distributor.
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2016 ROUNDUP As 2016 comes to a close, we take a look back at some of the most memorable moments from the past 12 months. Here’s a compilation of the events that dominated our attention this year...
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IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
Leonardo DiCaprio finally wins an Oscar (Hallelujah!!!)
Microchip your dog - it’s the law!
After numerous epic performances and four unsuccessful Oscar nominations, Leo finally won an Oscar for his gritty performance in the Blockbuster film, ‘The Revenant’.
For all you dog lovers out there, it’s finally the law for dog owners to have their dog microchipped. As of April this year, all dogs in England now have to be tagged with a microchip implant, or face a hefty £500 fine!
It became the most tweeted about Oscar's minute and prompted a standing ovation from the crowd.
Not only will it reduce the growing number of strays but it will save the tax payer a significant amount of money.
The Queen turned 90 (twice!) As usual the Queen celebrated two birthdays: her actual birthday on 21st April and her official birthday on the second Saturday in June.
Drake’s One Dance spends 15 weeks at no.1
The occasions were marked with great celebrations as thousands gathered to wish her happy birthday. We didn’t get the extra bank holiday that we were all hoping for but it’s a great achievement for Britain’s longest-reigning monarch.
Flashing the plastic just got a whole new meaning Cleaner, safer, stronger - The Bank of England launched the first of its new ultra-modern bank notes. The bank of England printed 440 million new fivers with a value of £2.2 billion ready ahead of the launch of the brand new note this September. The latest bank notes are made of polymer which is a thin, flexible plastic; they are way ahead of counterfeiters and far more durable, designed to last more than twice as long as the old cotton fibre notes we are used to. You’ll never lose a fiver in the wash again. In addition, they are also more environmentally friendly and cheaper to produce than traditional bank notes. Being thin and flexible, they fit into wallets and purses as easily as paper banknotes. The new tenner is set to be issued in summer 2017 and the £20 note is expected to launch by 2020. Don’t forget to spend your old fivers before May 2017. Find out more at www.bankofengland.co.uk/ banknotes/polymer
The Queen, resplendent on her 90th Birthday
A stark contrast to the 1994 chart topper ‘Love Is All Around’ from the sound track of British rom-com ‘Three weddings & a funeral’ which also spent 15 weeks at number 1.
The R&B tune featuring Wizkid & Kyla was on track to beat the all-time record of 16 weeks at no. 1, held by Bryan Adam’s classic Everything I Do (I Do It For You), but was knocked off the top spot by Cold Water, Justin Bieber and Major Lazer's collaboration. Damn that Justin Bieber!
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Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy
Leicester, yes Leicester! Win the Barclays Premier League
celebrates one of many goals on their way to the title
Even the bookies didn’t see it coming as one lucky optimist bagged himself £200,000 when Leicester took the Premier League title. His mates might have thought he was crazy putting £100 on the 2000-1 bet, but he had the last laugh as Leicester soared to the most unexpected and well deserved title win for a long, long time. A strong work ethic and goals galore from the likes of Vardy and Mahrez saw Leicester romp home with a 10pt cushion. ‘Back of the net’. And he did... Nice pants Gary
Euro 2016 - The highs, the lows and England! Before it even kicked off, the tournament was marred with bad press as hooligan fans fought in lumps on the streets of France. Once The Police Nationale threw their weight around and the UEFA threatened to kick Russia out the competition if they attacked anymore fans, it all seemed to settle down.
Disappointing England Despite their unbeaten form in the qualifying stages, England didn’t exactly show up to the tournament (certainly not how England fans expected them to anyway). Sheer lack of goals and teams playing happily for a draw made for some very boring football displays. I think that is all we will say about that! 30
Wonderful Wales Wales however...silenced their critics and proved they are worthy of a place on the main stage. Despite their inexperience in tournament football they breezed past everyone (except England, tee hee!) in the group stages and paved their way all the way to the semis, losing only to Portugal who went on to win it.
Bitter sweet final for Ronaldo Portugal like many other teams were less than impressive, with the win against Wales being their first win inside 90 minutes throughout the whole tournament. They drew all their group stage games and were stretched to extra time in the last 16 and quarter final rounds. But in the battle of the Madrid stars Ronaldo came out on top as he scored one and made one, securing Portugal a place in the final. I’m sure every Portuguese fan thought their chances were over after a tearful Ronaldo was stretchered off after 25 minutes. But proving there’s no I in Team they went on to win their first ever European Championship.
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Another Grand Slam and an Olympic gold for Andy Murray On his favourite surface, Andy Murray beat Milos Raonic in magnificent fashion to take his second Wimbledon singles title and third Grand Slam. To top that off, he became the only tennis player ever to retain an Olympic gold medal!
BREXIT - should we even talk about it? Good news for some, not so good for others, the EU Referendum split the country and marked a day in history that will divide opinion for years to come. Ultimately, what’s done is done and our fate now lies in the hands of our government and their ability to stabilise the country.
Earth to Tim Peake UK astronaut Maj. Tim Peake landed safely back on his home planet after spending a historic six-months on the International Space Station. During his 186-day mission, Maj. Peake remotely steered a robot on Earth and ran the London Marathon tied to a treadmill, before screaming back into the Earth’s atmosphere at 25 times the speed of sound in a Soyux capsule.
The fall out • David Cameron spits his dummy out and resigns • Teresa May becomes the first woman prime minister since the Iron Lady herself - Margaret Thatcher • Scotland aren’t happy, as they start preparing for a second independence referendum.
It’s been a great year for our Garage Networks
Rio Olympics Great Britain are the only host nation to go on and win more medals at the next Olympics.
AutoCare Garages gave away TWO brand new cars and over 100 prizes to UK motorist as part of their BIG Summer & Winter Giveaways.
Not only did Team GB beat China to finish second overall in the medal table, they made the history books winning medals across 20 different sports!
Visit www.autocaregarages.co.uk for more information.
The first Team GB gold medal came 48 hours in, courtesy of Adam Peaty who broke world record time to take gold in the 100m breaststroke. After that they just kept coming…
Approved Garages - the lead generation website · Over 350,000 people have visited www.approvedgarages.co.uk in 2016 · Over 40,000 leads have been generated for garages on the network this year. Find out how you can become part of our Garage Networks, call 01274 654605
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Gene Wilder Caroline Aherne (aka Mrs Merton) Muhammad Ali Prince Victoria Wood David Guest Ronnie Corbett Paul Daniels Frank Kelly (aka Father Jack) Sir Terry Wogan Alan Rickman David Bowie Arnold Palmer
Go Mo - Mo Farah successfully defended both the 5,000m and 10,000m golds in Rio. Alistair Brownlee (triathlon), Nicola Adams (women’s flyweight), Andy Murray (men’s tennis singles), Laura Trott (women’s omnium), Jason Kenny (track cycling, men's individual sprint and keirin) and Jade Jones (taekwondo) also defended their golds in superb fashion. Sweet 16 - Amy Tinkler became Britain's youngest medal winner in over 30 years. The golden couple - Jason Kenny was the most successful Brit in Rio, winning three golds taking his overall tally 6 golds. His fiancé Laura Trott became GB’s most successful female Olympian winning 2 more golds in the velodrome, taking her tally to 4.
Max Whitlock scooped the first ever gold medal in Gymnastics on floor and the pommel horse (in the same day!).
The Brownlee brothers celebrated gold and silver in the triathlon and Sir Bradley Wiggins became the first Briton to win eight Olympic medals with his victory in the team pursuit.
Jack Laugher and Chris Mears - the diving duo from Leeds Diving School took home GB’s first ever gold medal in synchronised diving. Jumpin’ for joy - Bryony Page came from nowhere to take silver in the trampoline, GB’s first ever medal in the sport.
AutoCare Summer giveaway winner, Gary Taylor, with his brand new Peugeot 208
We pay respect to the legends that have sadly passed in 2016 and who will never be forgotten.
Welsh competitors have won four gold medals at a single Games.
The best medal haul in 108 years!!
AutoCare Garages – it pays to be part of the UK’s Premium Garage Support Programme
Gone, but never forgotten
Bring on Tokyo 2020!
Welsh competitors Jade Jones (taekwondo), Hannah Mills (sailing), Owen Doull (cycling) and Elinor Barker (cycling) each won golds in their respective sports - the first time ever
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Supplier Spotlight
Y A D K C A TR SUCCESS
te the success of TJ Filters celebra day with the the Ginetta track n winners. o ti ti e p m co O T U GROUPA
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20
e car, 135 BHP • G40 GRDC road/rac ph. 5m 12 of and top speed HP with 5B 16 r, ca e rac • G40 GTS slick tyres! on the drive of They were also taken sional Le Mans their life with profes Robertson” in rlie ha winning driver “C 350 BHP. Who the GT4, 3.0L V6 with answer any was also on hand to him. questions thrown at
the day chosen by Prizes awarded on based on speed, the race instructors skills or in l ica hn agility and tec em all….. th of k lac se Jason’s ca Chan Ghedia of “Driver of the Day” orth. Mega Spares, Tamw mpetent” “Most Technically Co Motor Factors, Edryd Evans of E&M Aberystwyth. on Smith of “Wooden Spoon” - Jas aken in his race ert Tetrosyl who was ov . car by a Hyundai i10
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IGNITION MAGAZINE Powered by Groupauto
: DRIVER PROFILE SON
Charlie ROBERT
Team: Ginetta Car Number: 55 Current age: 19 e e? Fairburn, Yorkshir Where do you liv ry Driver job’? Ginetta Facto What is your ‘day your results ce & what were Where did you ra LMP3 – Teammate: ean Le Mans Series last season? Europ pions – 3 wins Sir Chris Hoy - Cham reer Highlights What are your ca ampion n Le Mans Series Ch 2015 LMP3 Europea n percup Champio 2014 Ginetta GT4 Su alist port BRDC Award Fin tos Au 2013 McLaren n Champio 2012 Ginetta Junior 2016? pionship goal in am What is your ch Mans Series in LMP3 To win the Asian Le orsport: s away from mot List your hobbie cling, Running Training, Football, Cy facts? Any interesting gest race, I was the youn When I won my first . UK the race in person to win a car hero? t or Motorsp Sir Jackie Stewart hero? Non-motorsport My Dad
TJ Filters, one of the great names of the British parts industry, has returned to the market. If you look at the historical TJ Filters catalogues, they produced OEM and aftermarket car and motorcycle filters for everyone from AGS, Alvis and Aston Martin through to Velocette, Vincent and Wolseley as well as felt filters for civilian and military aircraft engines. As of today, more than 1200 different TJ Filters are available for delivery as part of a parts programme that has seen Tetrosyl invest £10 million and create 60 jobs to date. More than 92% of the market Pareto is already covered by 1200 plus references with a full range of high quality but competitively priced air, fuel, oil and pollen filters. New products are being added to the catalogue every week and, by the end of the year, this range will be increased and the Pareto will be taken above 95%. TJ Filters are available for all standard vehicle filtration tasks, including Air, Oil, Fuel and Cabin Filters. • Over 1,200 different part numbers in the range • Fully Catalogued on Autocat+ & Tecdoc • The TJ filters range also comes backed up with a comprehensive warranty • Each filter has been tested to provide maximum protection and meeting the Original Manufacturers service interval and recommendations • All filters are covered by the QH Block exemption certificate CONTACT YOUR LOCAL GROUPAUTO DISTRIBUTOR FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TJ FILTERS. WWW.GROUPAUTO.CO.UK/DISTRIBUTORS
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MUST WATCH
MOVIES CHRISTMAS 2016 The time of the year is approaching when you’ll want to cosy up on the sofa, or go to the cinema with friends and family to tune into one of those magical movies that make Christmas so memorable. Whether you want to stay at home in front of your fire, or fancy wrapping up in your hat and gloves to go out to watch the newest blockbuster, here’s the must-see list for this festive season.
AT THE CINEMA THIS DECEMBER ROGUE ONE: STAR WARS
ASSASSIN’S CREED
16th DECEMBER | PG
21st DECEMBER | PG
Following the formation of the Galactic Empire, a rogue band of rebellion fighters unite for a risky mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, setting an impressive saga to follow.
Through a revolutionary technology that unlocks his genetic memories, Callum Lynch discovers he is descended from a mysterious secret society, the Assassins, and amasses incredible knowledge and skills to take on the oppressive and powerful Templar organization in the present day.
PASSENGERS 21st DECEMBER | PG Awakened from suspended animation 90 years earlier than planned, two space travellers (Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt) must find a way to save the other 5,000 passengers aboard their endangered ship.
OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY 9th DECEMBER | PG As they hope to close a sale which could potentially save them from losing their jobs, two co-workers decide to throw a huge Christmas party, which sadly goes out of control…
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CHRISTMAS CLASSICS Why not have a Christmas movie marathon and watch some of these all-time favourite festive films over the holiday season:
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY ELF After unintentionally inflicting mayhem on the elf community due to his unwieldly size, a man brought up as an elf at the North Pole is sent to the U.S. in search of his true identity.
THE GRINCH
NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS The king of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town, but doesn't quite understand the concept.
Residing on the outskirts of Whoville, there lives a green Grinch who plans on spoiling the Christmas holiday for all of the residents of the town.
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL The Muppet characters tell us the classic tale of an old and bitter Scrooge's redemption on Christmas Eve.
HOME ALONE A mischievous 8-year old is left to protect his home from a pair of burglars when he is unintentionally left home alone by his family during Christmas vacation.
FOR ‘GROWN UPS’ Once the kids are in bed, you’ll probably want to watch something a little less PG
BAD SANTA
THE SANTA CLAUSE Divorced dad Scott has been given the chance to care for his son on Christmas Eve. After he accidentally kills a man in a Santa suit, they are mysteriously transported to the North Pole, where an elf explains that Scott must take Santa's place.
DIE HARD John McClane, officer of the NYPD, tries to save his wife and several others who were taken hostage by German terrorist during a Christmas party.
THE HOLIDAY Two women troubled with guy-problems swap homes in each other's countries, where they each meet a local guy and fall in love.
A depressed conman and his partner pretend to be Santa and his Little Helper to raid department stores on Christmas Eve.
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Alcohol
Whether it’s mulled wine or a nice warming brandy, everyone has their favourite Christmas drink. Why not try something new this year (see page 56 for our recommendations).
Boxing Day Football If you’re feeling a little down after the excitement of Christmas Day, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Games
Christmas Crackers
If you’re bored of the usual Christmas crackers, paper hat, tiny comb etc, why not try making your own? Put little bottles of Whisky in for the gents and small bottles of Baileys for the ladies.
DIY Decorations
From making your own baubles to funny Christmas cards, add a personal touch to your decorations this year.
Premier League standout fixtures: • Leicester v Everton • Manchester Utd v Sunderland • Southampton v Tottenham 36
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Elf
Who hasnt seen the famous Elf movie, starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf? Well it’s bound to be on this Christmas season so mark it in your planner! A proper family favourite.
Festive Films
If you’re fancying a trip to the cinema this Christmas, check out our best picks below: • Rogue One: A Star Wars Story - December 16th • Office Christmas Party December 9th • Assassin's Creed December 21st
Christmas holidays may be the occasion to finally finish a game of Monopoly? Or even try lifesize Jenga?
Holiday
Bored of Christmas at home? Why not spend Christmas abroad where you could: • Skate on the rink in Central Park in New York • Spend it with with Mickey at Disneyland in Florida • Top up your tan on a beautiful Caribbean island
Ice Rinks
Talking of ice rinks, here are some places in the UK you can get your ice skates on: - Somerset House, London - Selfridges, Trafford Centre, Manchester - Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton - George Square, Glasgow
New Year’s Eve
Bored of your local for NYE? Why not try Sydney for the fireworks display or New York for the Times Square ball drop. Or if you fancy something closer to home, book a New Years spa break and celebrate in style.
Visitors
Worried about keeping everyone happy this year? Try and plan activities for the whole day, including board games, Christmas movies and even some time for everyone to relax.
Rudolph Red Hot Cocktail
Jokes
To warm you up this winter: • 1/2 shot orange curacao • 1 shot fireball cinnamon whiskey • 200ml cranberry juice
Q: What do you call an elf who sings? A: A wrapper!
Heat the cranberry juice until it’s hot. Pour everything else into a heatproof glass and then slowly add the cranberry juice.
The jokes in Christmas crackers might be bad but we think we’ve found the worst one....
Terrible.
Kings (Cross)
If you’re around the capital this Christmas, head to Kings Cross station for a variety of festive fun including Food markets, a magical Christmas garden and an 11 metre tree made out of sledges!
Lights
Show off to your neighbours with these Premier Snowing Icicle LED Christmas Supabrights. Amazon
£62.99
Opening presents
Stuck for present ideas? Have a look at some of the most popular gifts out there:
Stockings fillers Gentlemen's Hardware Shoe Shine Kit
£14.99 ASOS
GoPro HERO4 Adventure
Kisses under the mistletoe, why?
£377.00
UE Boom 2 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker £109.99
Pantomines
See your favourite stories re-told on stage including Star Wars’ own Warwick Davis in Snow White & Jonathan Wilkes in Cinderella.
TV Guilty Pleasures From Love Actually to The Snowman, The Holiday to The Great Escape, there are plenty of Christmas TV pleasures we all know and love.
Underwear
Brighten the office this Christmas with some extravagant festive socks!
Music
With artists dropping new albums every year, (we’re looking at you Buble) it’s easy to forget the old classics. Add these to your Christmas playlists on Spotify or Deezer and sing along. • Last Christmas by Wham! • All I Want For Christmas Is You by Maria Carey • I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day by Wizzard • Merry Xmas Everybody by Slade • White Christmas by Bing Crosby
Wreath
Why not make your own door wreath this year using twigs from the garden, old christmas decorations and some candy canes.
ASOS
£2.00
Quality Streets
Is it really Christmas if you don’t open a tin of Quality Street? Fun Fact: 6,000 Quality Street sweets are produced per minute, a total of 67 million every week.
Norse tradition: A Goddess’s son was killed by another god who used a mistletoe arrow. The goddess then wept tears of white berries and brought her son back to life and declared that the mistletoe should be a symbol of love. There you go...
Yule Log
Use a skewer or stick to create a wooden pattern on your yule log icing to add that authentic feel. Perfect to have around the fire.
Zip breaking prevention
Scared of putting weight on ths Christmas? Why not... • Take one less roast potato than usual • Have your Christmas pudding with Greek yogurt instead of cream • Use slimline tonic in your Christmas G&T • Swap Stilton (130 kcals) for Camembert (90 kcals)
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Lucas : THROUGH THE YEARS....
Supplier Spotlight
1875 Ships Lamps: After moving to Great King Street in Birmingham (Eventually the site of the famous Great King Street Factory); Lucas began producing its first lamp for ships called the “Tom Bowling”. A patent was applied for in 1875.
1850s Joseph Lucas began in the early 1860s as a dealer in paraffin oil for domestic lamps from a barrow cart around the streets of Hockley and soon saw potential to expand into the transport market.
1880s King of the Road Oil Lamps: An official patent was obtained in 1880 for the "King of the Road" bicycle lamp. In 1882, Joseph formed a private partnership with his son, Harry, trading under the title of Joseph Lucas & Son. FACT: The "King of the Road" Lion became a trademark in 1884 and remained a major feature of Lucas advertising for the next 80 years.
1908
1903
Early 1900s
The first Model T Ford produced in 1908 used acetylene lamps for headlamps and oil lamps for tail lamps.
Very soon Lucas began producing carbide/acetylene lamps for motor-cars. Acetylene gas lamps produce and burn acetylene (C2H2) created by the reaction of calcium carbide (CaC2) with water. They were more resistant to weather than oil lamps.
King of the Road, Acetylene Gas Lamps: Joseph Lucas died in 1902 to be succeeded by his son, Harry, as Chairman. Harry was able to take full advantage of the automotive boom and began producing oil lamps for motor-cars such as the oil side lamps shown here.
They were more resistant to weather than oil lamps.
The advertising of the time boasted the products “excellent results” that were “not affected by high winds”.
1910 As early as 1910 Lucas were producing electric car lamps.
1916 By 1916 Lucas was producing over 20,000 acetylene headlamps and 25,000 cycle lamps per week!
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1920s & 1930s Lucas continued to produce vehicle lighting in many forms including the P80DB and P100DB high-powered projector lamps.
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1971 H4 The first high and low beam halogen bulb. In 1971, the H4 bulb was introduced in Europe. It was the world’s first halogen headlamp bulb that could produce both low and high beam from a single bulb. The Lucas LLB472 H4 bulb remains one of the most popular bulbs in the range today.
1990s Little changed in the world lighting for several decades and almost all vehicles used halogen light bulbs in one form for headlights. That was until 1991 when the BMW 7 Series was introduced as the first car to use HID (also known as Xenon) headlight bulbs. Traditional HID replacement bulbs we’re very expensive but the Lucas range of HID bulbs delivers a more affordable solution without compromising quality.
1960s Sealed Beams Throughout the 1960s and 1970s Lucas produced sealed beam headlights for many British car manufacturers including prestige marques like Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Aston Martin, Bristol and Jowett. FACT: Lucas also introduced the first British sealed beam fog lamps to the aftermarket in 1964. They were called ‘PathFinder’ lamps.
Early 2000s Halogen Upgrade bulbs The rise in demand from the market for a brighter / whiter halogen bulb saw Lucas introduce their first upgrade halogen bulbs at this time. The recently rebranded LightBooster range now includes a range of halogen bulbs to deliver up to 120% more light on the road and white or blue tints to give a HID look.
The Future 1950s For the new post war cars, Lucas designed and produced flush fitting round headlamps. The first car to use the new design was the 1949/50 ‘raised headlamp’ Morris Minor. By the 1950s Lucas had began selling its own replacement bulbs.
1940s During World War II Lucas adapted many of its standard electrical products use or for military vehicles and for aircraft whilst engaging in special projects such as burners for the Whittle jet engine.
LED or Laser? LED (light Emitting Diode) Technology is by no means new and many vehicles now feature LED lighting. The super quick response times of LEDs makes ideal for stop and tail lights where they have become commonplace. Despite this, they are still not a common choice for headlights. The heat generating properties and costs have proven challenging for vehicle manufacturers. The 2009 Audi R8 V10 was the first car to feature all-LED lighting. However, there is also another contender. The latest BMW i8, Audi R8 LMX and the BMW 7 Series all use full beam laser which has a range of up to 600m. Twice that of LED headlights. Whatever the future, the Lucas brand will continue to meet the demands of the automotive aftermarket with trusted quality lighting components.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL GROUPAUTO DISTRIBUTOR FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LUCAS PRODUCTS. WWW.GROUPAUTO.CO.UK/DISTRIBUTORS www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition
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WHAT MIDLIFE CRISIS?
PORSCHE BOXSTER
Pretty much the most stereotypical midlife crisis car out there, and with good reason. It’s the perfect soft top sports car. Thrilling performance, with refined, timeless styling, you’d be daft to look much further for a reasonably priced second hand stunner.
Let’s face it...a midlife crisis is inevitable, but if you’re going to have one, you may as well do it in style. Here are our favourite midlife crisis motors, choose yours wisely!
AUDI RS6 AVANT
2010 | 2.9L | 31k miles 0-60 5.9s | £19k
Supercar speed and enough space for your golf clubs? What’s not to love. The RS6 boasts an awesome 4.0L petrol V8, packing a whopping 552bhp into a premium badged estate. Truly incredible performance and sleek styling make the RS6 a real no-brainer for anyone looking for performance and practicality. The downside? A hefty price tag and monster running costs...Still, totally worth it!
2014 | 4L | 15k miles 4WD | 552bhp | 0-60 3.9s | £54k
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This sporty, yet muscular Beemer has everything you’ll need to set your heart rate pacing. Decent performance, classic styling and a German badge, you’ll be hard pressed to find more quality for the price. Not the most practical of cars, but then again - a midlife crisis isn’t exactly meant to be practical.
LOTUS ELISE
An immersive driving experience that isn’t easily rivalled, the Lotus Elise is as exciting to drive, as it is to look at. The nippy 1.8L petrol engined pocket rocket has reasonable running costs, yet lacks some refinement and practicality. As an ‘aging’ person, you may find yourself struggling to get in and out of the bugger, but once you’re in...you wont want to get out. A great choice for anyone who has the luxury of living near the winding roads of the countryside.
BMW Z4
2009 | 2.5L | 26k miles 149mph | 204bhp | RWD | £12,750
FORD FOCUS ST
One of the hottest of the hot hatches, the beefy Focus ST will have you grinning ear-to-ear with it’s superb styling and perky performance. Joe Bloggs motorist will assume you’re in a regular Ford Focus, so you’ll have tonnes of fun leaving him for dead at the traffic lights. Pick this one for a real school boy thrill, at a great price.
2014 | 2L | >10k miles FWD | 247bhp | 0-60 6.5s | £15,500
HARLEY-DAVIDSON SOFT TAIL SLIM S You aren’t truly in the midst of a midlife crisis until a Harley-Davidson is involved. Rugged and manly, yet a thing of pure beauty, the Soft Tail Slim S is a real triumph of design. The sound from the 1801cc engine is something to behold, just make sure you leave the bandanas and denim at home. Get your motor runnin’...
2010 | 1.8L | 52k miles | 134bhp 0-60 5.8s | £19k
£17,495 2016 | Brand new
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Supplier Spotlight
finds the winning formula with Peugeot Sport he dictionary definition of ‘Cooperation’ is; “The action or process of working together to the same end.” When both parts of a partnership are working towards a common goal, and that goal is to win, the results can be spectacular. This is true of TOTAL Lubricants relationship with Peugeot Sport. TOTAL Lubricants has worked with teams in the sport of Rallycross for over 14 years, culminating in a partnership with Peugeot Sport and the Peugeot-Hansen team, competing at the pinnacle in this year’s FIA World Rallycross Championship. Their two main drivers, Timmy Hansen and rally legend Sébastien Loeb, have already amassed four podium finishes and one overall victory this year, and currently sit second in the teams championship. The race for the title is set to go down to the wire at the final round in Argentina this November. In Rallycross, the cars compete side-by-side for track position, like circuit racing, but half the track is tarmac and the other is gravel. They also accelerate quicker than a Formula 1 car, thanks to all-wheel-drive and turbocharged 2.0 litre engines with 600bhp and 850 Nm of torque. The racing is intense, with the closely competitive nature providing fans with frenetic action. Making sure the engines perform at peak levels consistently is a real challenge and that’s why TOTAL Lubricants work with Peugeot Sport and the Peugeot-Hansen team.
Romain Aubry, Total Competition Technical Coordinator explains: “We have quite extraordinary stresses on the engine and gearbox in Rallycross. We have worked on a friction reduction technology to maintain the oil film as thin as possible, while still ensuring a good level of lubrication on mechanical parts.” Such unique strains and requirements force TOTAL Lubricants to innovate and move forward. The learnings from competing in the FIA World Rallycross Championship can then be passed on to the road car range of lubricants.
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They also accelerate quicker than a Formula 1 car, thanks to all-wheel-drive and turbocharged 2.0 litre engines with 600bhp and 850 Nm of torque.
340HP | 800 Nm of Torque 400 L Fuel tank
The all-new Peugeot 3008 DKRs 3L V6 bi-turbo diesel engine is lubricated by TOTAL QUARTZ 10 W 50 motor oil, whilst the manual 6 speed gearbox is lubricated by TOTAL 755 HPX 80 W 140 Transmission fluid.
f you think Rallycross is fast and furious, then the Dakar Rally is extreme and punishing. Here, Peugeot Sport also compete, with one of their drivers also being Sébastien Loeb. The event is run in a similar fashion to a more traditional stage rally, so the teams are competing against the clock instead of overtaking for position on a track. The event runs from January 2nd to the 14th; an unbelievable marathon across the world’s most punishing terrains, including Paraguay, Bolivia and Argentina. TOTAL Lubricants is once again at the forefront of endurance and innovation, working with the Peugeot Sport team to conquer a true challenge of strength, speed and determination. Ahead of next year’s Dakar, Peugeot Sport and TOTAL Lubricants have revealed the all-new Peugeot 3008 DKR, a stunning purpose-built machine designed to tackle the 10,000 competitive stage kilometres. If there was ever a sporting event to prove reliability, than Dakar is it. Together with Peugeot Sport, TOTAL Lubricants is pushing the boundaries of what is possible, all in the name of research and development. Expect to see a Peugeot winning with TOTAL near you soon! For videos and info about TOTAL’s motorsport involvement, search on YouTube or Facebook for ‘Unstoppable by TOTAL’. www.lubricants.total.com
The 3008 DKRs monster tyres are BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A. Providing excellent traction on all terrain types and exceptional sturdiness and long life, to really push the limits.
For more information about TOTAL Lubricants, contact your local GROUPAUTO parts distributor at www.groupauto.co.uk
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DATING IN THE DIGITAL AGE DOs AND DON’Ts Widespread digital technology, especially smartphones, have changed our views in society, including how people look for and establish romantic relationships. From texting on mobile phones, swiping right or left on a dating app, to liking posts and blocking on Facebook, the amount of opportunities to make a good or bad impression, or portray a certain persona with a digital crush are endless!
Today in Britain... 1 in 5 heterosexual couples meet online and an enormous
70% of homosexual couples find a partner using digital methods.
New to the dating scene? We’ve asked around to see what you should and shouldn’t do!
A photo says a lot about you... DOs Smile in your profile picture Look smart - what you wear matters Use a current picture so there are no surprises on the date! If you’re a pet lover, get a selfie with Rover to show your sensitive side
DON’Ts Ditch the sunglasses - don’t hide your eyes Don’t use topless gym selfies - leave something to the imagination Avoid group photos, especially if your mates are taller!
How to open up a conversation: DOs Say something funny Refer to any mutual interets in their profile Don’t play hard to get - online dating saves a lot of embarassment from face to face rejection, take advantage of it and let them know you’re interested
DON’Ts Don’t double message - if they haven’t replied they’re not interested, next! No cheesy chat-up lines or crude comments And definitely NO NUDES!
Now that’s sorted, check out our selection of grooming products guaranteed to make you look suave for your date!
Some lesser known niche dating sites... Gluten Free Single........... Aims to eliminate any of those awkward “There’s nothing on this menu I can eat.” moments.
Tindog....................... A hybrid combination of Tinder and, well, dog for those who are inseperable from their canine companion.
Bristlr.................. Quote: “We connect those with beards to those who want to stroke beards.” Enough said.
Sizzl.................... Pairs up prospective partners on the basis of how they like their bacon cooked!
PERFECT PARTNERS Kalamazoo Beard and Facial Wash Keep things bright and bushy with this creamy wash for that fur on your face.
£6.75, Lush Veerappan Moustache wax
Wright’s Coal Tar Soap If using a facewash is going too far then this antiseptic soap is ideal. Soldiers used this to protect from infection during WW1.
Style that tash, Veerappan style!
£10.00 , Lush
85p, Superdrug
Male Grooming DAMNED IF YOU DO, DAMNED IF YOU DON’T Let’s get rid of the stigma that surrounds men who moisturise. We have found a selection of the ‘manliest’ grooming products, that you shouldn’t feel anything less of a man for using.
FEELING FLUSH? If you’ve embraced hair loss we’ve found the perfect product. It will protect, smooth and reduce unwanted shine on your bonce and boat race.
Bull Dog Anti-Ageing Moisturiser If it’s got a Bull Dog on it, it must be manly, right? Keep those ‘laugh-lines’ at bay with this ultra-manly moisturiser.
£8, Boots
BEE BALD® Smooth Plus Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 £31.50 Amazon Bee Bald® products are created
specifically for the upper portion of a man's head. View the full range at www.beebald.com
Hemp Hand Protector It’s not hand cream, honest! Keep those paws protected after a tough day under the bonnet.
£11, The Body Shop
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Supplier Spotlight
LIGHTING THE ROAD AHEAD
Whilst the automotive industry is still taking fledgling steps in the EV uptake, it is worth turning back the clock to DENSO’s original inception of electric vehicles more than half a century ago, as the industry innovator proudly took unprecedented strides well ahead of its time.
DENSO started as a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. during the severe economic downturn after WW2. Whilst the industry was struggling, necessity is the mother of invention, and the automotive parts specialist sought to set itself apart to achieve the success it enjoys now. Reinventing itself as an automotive innovator, the company turned itself toward developing advanced vehicle technologies and parts, and DENSO quickly flourished within the industry.
The prototype could cover 195 kilometres per charge, an impressive distance considering the distance electric vehicles can cover today, just over six decades on. Fifty DENSO electric cars found their way onto Japanese roads in July 1950 and ran particularly smoothly throughout the Tokyo region. With a top speed of 43 km/h, they were only slightly slower than the widely available coal-powered vehicles and their expensive U.S counterparts, and provided a legitimate alternative.
With a sense for innovation and a typically strong will to contribute to a better society, DENSO engineers succeeded in developing a pioneering electric car: the ‘DENSO-GO’. The concept provided a stepping stone for DENSO’s wider success, and can even be seen as a building block for many modern EVs. A plan for the practical use of an electrical vehicle was in the works by October 1949. The final concept was a truly unique creation, using a DC motor instead of the more commonly found AC motor, and the car’s speed was controlled with only four gears, and employed many intricate technical devices to produce a car with technology far beyond its contemporaries.
Whilst the ‘DENSO-GO’ concept remained a concept, it provided a tangible technological victory, affirmation of DENSO’s technological prescience and secured the company’s place as a burgeoning automotive innovator.
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More importantly, the ‘DENSO-GO’ served as vindication of a real commitment to provide creative and quality products that could benefit the automotive sector and wider society as a whole. In this sense, the concept laid the groundwork for DENSO’s motivation in the industry; taking on the greatest challenges under any circumstances and providing an innovative solution.
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The prototype could cover 195 kilometres per charge, an impressive distance considering the distance electric vehicles can cover today, just over six decades on.
The DENSO-GO prototype EV
D
ENSO has continued to contribute to alternative energy solutions for the automotive industry, most notably providing an ultra-green solution in the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai, in which DENSO components cover several of the car’s key functions, particularly the EV control system, heat control system, air supply system and hydrogen system. Individual components include the temperature and pressure sensors, the hydrogen fuelling control unit and the infrared ray transmitter which communicates with the hydrogen station. The automotive giant has pursued a broad sphere of expertise and continues to make a profound impact in the automotive and technology industries; its wide array of world-firsts ranges from the first in-vehicle wireless cell phone charger to the QR code. With over 151,000 employees at more than 200 sites in Japan, North America, Europe, Asia, South America and Africa, the Japanese company produces world-first technologies and products that save lives, provide security and lower carbon footprints. Contact your local GROUPAUTO distributor for more information about DENSO.
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SPOIL THE KIDS THIS
CHRISTMAS From Frozen to Minions, Star Wars to Harry Potter, Pokémon to Lego, what will the kids expect from Santa this year? Here’s a heads-up on the latest trends, so you know exactly what to pick for your little ones.
LEGO VOLCANO CITY A volcano is about to explode in LEGO® City! Help your little scientists and explorers discover new information about the volcano, using power drills, helicopters and drones to save the Lego city.
RRP £79.99
SNUGGLES MY DREAM PUPPY
A cute fluffy puppy teddy, that sleeps, breathes and even asks to be fed with its bottle. ‘Snuggles’ likes to be petted and cuddled. He’s the perfect gift this Christmas for any dog lover.
RRP £49.99 48
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BB8 The BB8 Droid is the coolest present a kid can get this Christmas (if they love Star Wars). This rolling ball of personality is controllable from a smartphone or tablet. BB8 also responds to voice commands and can roam autonomously.
RRP £49.99
Selfiemic worlds apart
blow thte budge
Give your kids the gift of stardom... The Selfie Mic, features an adjustable selfie stick with working microphone, earpiece and free StarMaker app, they can sing, lip sync and perform to thousands of their much-loved songs.
RRP £19.99
XBOX ONE S
Exclusive to ArgOs
Push the boat out with the newest console in the Microsoft range. The Xbox One S, although 40% smaller than the Xbox 360, promises a richer, more colourful and overall a more dynamic experience. A gift the whole family can get involved with - Stream 4K video via Netflix and Amazon Video to watch your favourite Christmas films, or watch UHD Blu-ray movies in striking 4K Ultra HD.
RRP from £249.99
Tiny Treasures
Baby Doll
This interactive doll is set to be a hit. The Tiny Treasures Baby Doll has life-like features, is scented to smell like a real baby and is also designed to weigh the same as a new-born.
RRP £39.99
Nerf Modulus CODE-A-PILLAR
Tri-Strike
Fisherprice bring pre-school explorers a toy that is designed to spark your little one’s curiosity, by encouraging them to arrange and rearrange the segments in countless combinations.
Children can build a unique blaster for each ‘mission’, with the Nerf Modulus Tri-Strike blaster. It features 3 different ways to blast, that can all be used separately, or combined.
RRP £49.99
RRP £59.99 www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition
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TAKE A PUNCH
We are in no way condoning being punched, however... if you’re going get yourself punched - get yourself prepared. approvedgarages.co.uk sponsored Gavin McDonell has the following tips for anyone considering getting slotted: • Keep your chin tucked in & mouth closed • Eyes open & hands up • Move your head with the punch • Exhale as the strike lands
Pickles OPEN A TOUGH JAR
Twist it. Really hard. Failing that, try a damp cloth or running it under warm water...just don’t give in. And if all else fails, pierce the lid and it’ll pop right off.
Clean the walls - Use water, washing detergent and a sponge - no need to be too thorough Protect the room - Lay sheets and cover furniture, tape edges and doorframes & remove electrical switches Get some consitency - Make your strokes with the roller even and from the same direction i.e top to bottom. Remember to frequently mix the paint Take care of your stuff - Once you’re done working for the day, clean up and wrap brushes and rollers with cling film to keep them pliable
HOW
YOUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE BONJOUR GUTEN TAG HOLA
LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE Take group lessons - It is always easier with a real teacher, and you will get motivation Use apps - Babbel or Duolinguo (free) allow you to practice whenever and wherever you want Find new friends - Foreign people may live in your city and be ready to teach you their language. Think about international students or look at classified ads Travel - The easiest way to learn a new language is immersion, it also allows you to discover new habits and cultures
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PAINT YOUR ROOM
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HIT THE PERFECT DRIVE First and foremost - make sure you pick the right club, ball and tee. Tee the ball up so that the ball is within range of the club’s sweetspot. Set your stance so that the ball is inline with the heel of your front foot. Your feet should be shoulder width apart and you should be balanced and comfortable. To keep your drive more accurate, choke the shaft slightly and don’t grip too tight. Finally, pick a spot on the fairway to aim at, never just ‘drive and hope’.
BUY A USED CAR
Do your research - Fnd the car that suits your needs Compare cars online - Most cars are listed online and you can compare them like for like before even going to see them Look for already-discounted cars - If the price is already reduced, there's often more flexibility, as the salesperson won’t expect the full asking price Inspect the car thoroughly in person - Before buying, make sure you’ve had a test drive and looked through all the necessary documentation Flaws mean discount - A small scratch or dent can do wonders for your haggling power and won’t affect how the car drives Haggle! - Be friendly, but firm. You're more likely to get a result if the staff member warms to you. If you don’t ask - you don’t get! Buy privately - Buying a car privately will lead to bigger savings, however doing so carries bigger risks. Make sure you know what you’re doing.
TO...
EAT HEALTHIER
TO TROUBLESOME SITUATIONS
TAKE UP RUNNING
Get the gear - You can’t run in Converse, make sure you buy adapted shock absorbing running shoes Start slowly - Begin by walking, then start running for a couple of minutes at a time and increase over the following sessions Stop before it hurts - You should not suffer, listen to your body and don’t push it too much Don’t run alone - Find a friend to run with. You can also register with a local running club Track your progress - Download apps that can map your run and track your progress. Having targets to hit helps you improve
Will power is key to making any lifestyle changes. Eating healthier is about breaking through the initial wall. Keep your new diet varied and exciting, try to refrain from store bought sauces and instead cook from scratch, using healthy fresh ingredients. YOU CAN DO IT!
BUILD FLATPACK FURNITURE Read the instructions.
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M O D E E R F R U O Y SE
O O H C TO
DID YOU KNOW?
1
2
You don’t have to use franchised dealers for servicing your vehicle. An independent garage can work on your vehicle without invalidating your warranty.
Independent Garages are often much cheaper than franchised dealerships.
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3 Under European Regulations renewed in 2010, the motorist has the right to choose where they get their car serviced.
4 All AutoCare and Approved Garages use original equipment or matching quality parts so they can service or repair your vehicle without invalidating your warranty.
?
HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHICH GARAGE YOU SHOULD CHOOSE? WE ANSWER YOUR POPULAR QUESTIONS HERE...
RIGHT2CHOOSE EXPLAINED You have the right to choose where you repair and service your car, so you can take it to your local garage without affecting your warranty!
WILL MY INDEPENDENT GARAGE HAVE ALL THE VEHICLE INFORMATION AND TECHNICAL DATA NEEDED TO FIX MY CAR? Independent garages tend to fix all types of cars. All AutoCare and Approved Garages are offered training courses to keep up to date with the latest motor technology too. So they have the right to access technical information held by the vehicle manufacturer.
CAN I SAVE MONEY BY GOING TO MY LOCAL INDEPENDENT GARAGE? Generally, costs for repairs and services are cheaper than the main dealership.
WHAT DOES A CAR WARRANTY COVER? This contract provided by your car manufacturer outlines that certain parts of your vehicle are protected under this agreement, which generally lasts for around three years. Each warranty varies, so be sure to check with your dealership.
SHOULD I KEEP A RECORD OF THE WORK CARRIED OUT AT AN INDEPENDENT GARAGE? Always ask for an itemised invoice and keep this safe for future reference.
ARE GENUINE PARTS NECESSARY IN MY REPAIRS TO KEEP MY WARRANTY? This is not necessary. You can get your car parts repaired or replaced with matching OE-quality parts, which are recorded as such. Matching OE parts will not invalidate the warranty and should be logged in the handbook.
IN A NUTSHELL, RIGHT2CHOOSE IS SIMPLY THAT. WHATEVER THE COMPLEXITY OF THEIR VEHICLE AND WHATEVER THE FUTURE OF THE CONNECTED CAR, DRIVERS SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE THEIR CAR SERVICED OR REPAIRED IN ANY QUALIFIED GARAGE, WITHOUT IT INVALIDATING THEIR WARRANTY.
FIND YOUR LOCAL APPROVED GARAGE TODAY AT
WWW.APPROVEDGARAGES.CO.UK
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Supplier Spotlight As you may be aware, Platinum Batteries (Europe) Ltd has recently changed its name to Platinum International Ltd. Whilst the name change is only a subtle one, and much of the visual branding will remain the same, the message is an important one: Platinum source automotive products from Tier 1 OE manufacturing partners across the globe, they service customers with European and International sales and distribution networks, and distribute premium brands with unrivalled worldwide consumer awareness!
Global Brands
Platinum have also been successful in re-securing the LeMans branded business. LeMans batteries are available via your local GROUPAUTO parts distributor.
Truly International
The name change allows Platinum International to reposition itself as a supplier of not just battery products. Most recently Platinum has moved into the lubricants sector to deliver a comprehensive premium brand lubricant offering to the automotive aftermarket; This move enables its customers’ to benefit from a next day delivery solution, no minimum order quantity or value; delivered by Platinum’s own vehicle fleet and drivers! Operations Director Kris Halliwell said, “We continue to develop our portfolio of automotive products with premium suppliers, to provide our customers with access to global brands at competitive pricing, so they can increase sales, profitability and have a real point of difference in their local market place!” He goes on to explain “We are also being challenged to support our customers’ distribution footprint as we supply products to their operations in a number of countries worldwide; therefore, we are increasingly sourcing and operating on an international basis, as an international business, selling internationally marketed brands.”
Commercial Director Stuart Dale, stated that “We are very much focused on becoming an easy company to do business with, and so we aim to offer the member a flexible and yet robust solution! Our focus has to be on delivering consistency in delivery frequency, product quality, sales development and ease of dealing with Platinum at every touch point with every customer interaction. This is fundamental to our business ethos and will be key to Platinum International further developing our relationship with the Group”.
Own Fleet
If you have any questions, please call a Platinum Customer Services Adviser on 0845 063 9999
TRULY INTERNATIONAL Evolving To Deliver More, For Less...
New Products... Global Brands... September 2016...
More Branches | More Brands | More Products More Sales People | More Opportunity | More Profit For More Information Call 0845 063 9999 or visit www.platinuminternational.com
Christmas
Leftovers
Christmas is over, all your guests are gone, but you still have a lot of leftovers, what to do with all that food? We gathered the easiest and tastiest recipes that will get your tastebuds tingling this Christmas period.
BOXING DAY QUESADILLAS Method 1. Spread (2 spoons of ) cranberry sauce on 4 tortillas 2. Divide turkey onto them 3. Add thin slides of camembert 4. Top each with another tortilla 5. Fry them in a large frying pan for 2 or 3 minutes
No matter how many people you invite over for Christmas dinner, you’re always guaranteed to have leftover Turkey. This easy recipe will put all that meat to good use and will be a delicious snack at the same time! Ingredients: 8 soft tortillas 8 tablespoons cranberry sauce 300g leftover cooked turkey 150g Camembert
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Why not pair with: Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale? American Ale to warm you up. ABV: 6.8% Tasting Notes: This seasonal IPA is perfect for the cold winter season. With citrus and piney hops flavours, this beer would go perfectly with your Boxing Day Quesadillas.
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MASHED POTATO PANCAKES
CHRISTMAS PUD ICE CREAM
Made the mistake of making too much mash again? No worries, this easy recipe is a great way to use up all those spare potatoes.
What to do with the 2 extra Christmas Puddings that everyone is too full to eat? Why not make this delicious Christmas Pudding ice cream that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes 1 (or 2) egg 1/4 cup flour Salt & pepper Garlic
Ingredients: 1 tub vanilla or chocolate ice cream 200g leftover Christmas pudding Toffee sauce Method 1. If your pudding is not already ruined, crumble it into small pieces. 2. Whizz the ice cream with a food processor until it is smooth. 3. Mix the pudding into it. 4. Freeze for at least 2 hours
Method 1. Mix all the ingredients together 2. Pour 1/4 cup into hot oiled frying pan 3. Turn over so that it browns on both sides
If you like your food spicy add jalapenos and salsa instead of cranberry sauce.
TURKEY & POTATO CURRY Leftover Turkey? Love a curry? No problem.... Ingredients: 1 tbsp sunflower oil 1 large onion thickly sliced 1 green pepper, deseeded and chopped 2 tbsp curry paste 2 garlic clove, crushed 400g can chopped tomato 300g leftover turkey 300g leftover cooked potato (either boiled or roasted)
Method Heat the oil in a large pan over a fairly high heat. Cook the onion and pepper for 3-4 mins until starting to soften and brown slightly. Stir in the curry paste and garlic, then cook for another 1-2 mins. Add the chopped tomatoes and 150ml water. Bring to the boil and simmer for 5 mins. Turn the heat down, stir in the turkey and potatoes, and cook for another 2-3 mins, then season and add some mango chutney if you wish. Scatter with coriander and serve with rice or naan.
www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition
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AutoCare lead the way on Hybrid AutoCare garages are proving themselves to be among the most forward thinking in the country when it comes to hybrid repair and servicing. According to IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) statistics, around 1,000 technicians across the UK are qualified to IMI Level Three for hybrid vehicles, and using his own statistics based on delivered training Steve Carter has calculated that almost 50% of that total are employed by AutoCare garages.
What exactly are hybrid cars?
Why would I buy a hybrid car?
Hybrid cars are part battery-electric and part conventional cars. The underlying principle of all hybrid vehicles is the use of a temporary energy storage battery, which enables the internal combustion engine to be operating in a much more efficient manner. In most cases the vehicle manufacturers are using the Atkinson cycle instead of the more traditional Otto cycle.
This is probably the wrong question. Vehicle manufacturers have now accepted that to meet the forthcoming emission targets for 2017(Euro 6c) and 2020 (Euro 7) and with the corresponding CO2 targets (fuel efficiency). It is going to be virtually impossible to meet these requirements without the mass adoption of plugins and EVs most manufacturers are predicting that by 2020 40%-50% of their range of cars will be some form of Plug-in or EV.
When the engine loading is low, the excess energy is stored for later use. When more energy is required, the main engine and the energy storage device work together to deliver the required power. In this way, hybrids provide improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. Battery storage also enables the use of regenerative braking which tops up the battery during braking, further reducing overall fuel consumption by around 20%.
It was proposed by the previous mayor of London that by 2020 the only diesel cars allowed in to the centre of London would by the Euro 6c type, and still subject to a daily charge. Diesel cars not Euro6c compliant would not be allowed access.
The first generation hybrids would only operate in electric mode at low speeds. Today’s plug-in and series hybrid are more than capable of exceeding the national speed limit in just EV mode.
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What are the savings that can be made with a plugin? Clearly a plug-in has no range restriction, once you have used all of the battery power the car will run on its internal combustion engine. However if your daily commute is within the range of the vehicle EV system, typically a family hatchback could travel five miles per Kilowatt hour, therefore a 10Kh battery, the typical size for a plug-in would give you a range of approximately 50 miles on electric which would cost you approximately ÂŁ1.20 to recharge at home.
Training - at the heart of the AutoCare garage programme Independent garages that are part of the AutoCare garage programme receive 6 training courses per year inclusive in their annual subscription. Many of the technicians select the hybrid vehicle courses due to the ever increasing number of vehicles entering their workshop.
154
over
1500
AutoCare garage technicians trained every year
400+
garages qualified to IMI Level Three for hybrid vehicles in 2016*
technicians have taken a course on hybrid technology in 2016*
*Numbers as of Jan-Oct 2016
Join the AutoCare Garage Programme Speak to your local GROUPAUTO motor factor about joining AutoCare, the UK’s premium garage programme and benefits from the following; • Branding • Marketing support & promotions • IT & Software • Training • Lead generation via ApprovedGarages.co.uk Find your local GROUPAUTO motor factor at www.groupauto.co.uk/distributors or contact AutoCare Support on 01274 654605.
www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition
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Supplier Spotlight R
HOT-WHEELS GROUPAUTO approved supplier, Gates, continue their support of the Gulf Oil Dragracing team...
THE RIDER Meet Ian King. He is the top fuel motorcycle rider and team leader at King Racing, from Royston in Hertfordshire. He competes in the most powerful motorcycle racing classification there is. He has nine Federation of International Motorcycle (FIM) championships, countless European, British and track records and is the only British rider to have raced a 1/4 quarter mile from a standing start in five seconds. That earned his place as one of the only eight worldwide members of the prestigious MTC Engineering Top Fuel 5 Second Club. Next month, on an airfield outside York, he will bid to add the FIM world land speed record over a 1/4 mile for bikes and Gates is pleased to be involved.
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OUR BEST WISHES Gates have been one of the team’s sponsors for nearly 15 years. From everyone here at Gates, good luck, Ian, to you and all the rest of the Gulf Oil Dragracing team.
THE BIKE The Gulf Oil Dragracing Top Fuel Bike is a purpose built supercharged inline 4-cylinder 1585cc Puma engine. It runs on nitro methane, which is more akin to an explosive than a fuel. It consumes an average of 13 gallons per minute. The bike achieves 0-100mph in 1.1 seconds and reaches 0-248mph in 5.8 seconds. At such speeds, riders typically experience more than 3Gs of force.
THE POWER The engine requires five different drive belts from Gates’ standard product range in order to deliver the power from the engine to where it needs to be. These drive belts are all designed, manufactured and supplied by Gates. They are unlike the drive belts that you might expect to find on the shelf at your local motor factor. The primary drive uses a Gates Poly Chain® Carbon™ Volt®14MGT 1400 90 belt, which is the best belt on the market for the purpose. It transfers the 1500HP power from the engine to the clutch, on to the gearbox and then finally through the driveline to the rear wheel. It’s a tremendous amount of power. At the other end of the engine is a Gates PowerGrip® GT3 belt that delivers power from the crankshaft to the supercharger. A second PowerGrip® GT3 belt drives one magneto, the fuel pump and oil pump and a third drives a second magneto. The fifth belt is a much smaller Gates Poly Chain® Carbon™ Volt® belt. It drives an additional pulley that configures all of the other belts.
THE AERODYNAMICS With the throttle fully open, the engine will generate more than 1500HP at the crankshaft. It is about 50% more powerful than an F1 car. Once the throttle is released all of that power travels through the rear wheel only – it’s the only one that’s left in contact with the track. The wheelie-bar is a key part of the chassis design. It tapers away from the rear of the top fuel bike and remains in contact with the track. It adds some much needed stability and if it has been designed correctly, it will do so without draining too much power from the engine. Once the engine power and the torque kicks in and the front wheel leaves the ground, there is no other way to steer the bike other than to use the rider’s own balance and bodyweight. As he hurtles towards the record, Ian must lean, rock and wrestle with the bike in order to maintain a straight line.
THE CHALLENGE There will be two runs, over the same distance in opposite directions. This is designed to produce both an average time and to eliminate advantag advantages that might occur as a result of local conditions such as wind speed. A strict time limit between the end of the first run and the start of the second will be enforced by independent observers who will also be responsible for recording the official time. Instinct, skill and experience will play vital roles. In addition to keeping the bike stable, the run will severely examine Ian’s performance and reaction times. These often mean the difference between success and failure, winner or loser, record or no record.
THE DANGERS Although the time is stopped at the end of the official distance, this is the most critical part of the run. It’s the time of the greatest danger. Dragsters race over smooth surfaces designed to provide the best traction for slicks. The record run will be on an airfield, which will add further challenges for both the aerodynamics of the bike and the grip of the tyres. As soon as the throttle is shut down, the bike becomes unstable. A parachute is released, which acts as a sail and helps to stabilises the bike as well as to slow the bike down. However, the tyres start to ‘unload’ and to ‘twist’ in the opposite direction of travel in response to the sudden deceleration. This will add instability, while the less than perfect surface at Elvington airfield will present further difficulties.
Contact your local GROUPAUTO distributor for more information about Gates. www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition
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MYTHS
D E T S U B
We’ve compiled - and debunked - some of the most widely believed myths and old wive’s tales. When you’re down at the pub and you hear someone spouting this nonsense, be sure to correct them!
BULLS HATE Bulls are colour blind! They react to the waving motion of the matador’s cape (or ‘muleta’), not the actual colour of the cape. The red muleta is only used in the final act of the bullfight, as red masks the colour of the bull’s blood.
NAPOLEON
SHAVING
MAKES HAIR GROW BACK FASTER! FASTER! FASTER! FASTER!
WAS SHORT
The term ‘Napoleon Complex’ for men with short man syndrome, is widely used. However, Napoleon was in fact 5ft7” - 2 inches taller than the average Frenchman at the time!
There is no evidence whatsoever that suggests shaving will make hair grow back faster. However the hair will no longer be tapered, giving the illusion of being thicker.
SHARKS
NEVER WAKE A SLEEPWALKER
CAN’T GET
CANCER
This simply untrue statement has led to the slaughter of millions of sharks for shark cartilage pills. This is based on nothing more than speculation that the pills have healing qualities. Sharks can100% get cancer.
BATS ARE BLIND 62
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Contrary to popular belief, waking a sleepwalker will not give them a heartattack, nor will it send them into a coma. It is a lot safer to wake a sleepwalker, than it is to let them walk around fast asleep. We suggest a swift slap round the chops! (only kidding).
‘Blind as a bat’ is possibly the most nonsensical statement around. Bats can see perfectly well, they also use echolocation as an even more precise way of viewing their surroundings. They have two modes of vision!
Get involved - Tweet us your favourite myths @GarageIgnition
MANN+HUMMEL acquires global filtration operations of Affinia (Group) The global filtration operations of the Affinia Group, including the well-known brands WIX and FILTRON, have now become part of the MANN+HUMMEL Group. Highest standards in quality, service, and innovations, supported by over 1,000 research and development specialists, help make MANN+HUMMEL a distinguished development partner and original equipment supplier to the automotive and mechanical engineering industries. The newly joined company ensures that both will continue to grow and serve their customers with the best in filtration solutions, supported by 150 years of combined experience, complementary competencies, and 20,000 valued employees worldwide. If you want to know more about the MANN+HUMMEL acquisition, please visit www.wixeurope.com or contact your local GROUPAUTO Motor Factor.
GROUPAUTO IS THE MOST SUCCESSFUL TRADING GROUP IN THE INDEPENDENT AFTERMARKET, WITH OVER 360 MOTOR FACTOR MEMBERS AND OVER 670 INDEPENDENT GARAGES. HERE’S HOW YOU CAN BECOME PART OF IT. BECOME PART OF OUR INDEPENDENT GARAGE SCHEMES We have 3 independent garage schemes - AutoCare, Top Truck and The Approved Garage Network. We have substantial presence throughout the UK, with a combined total of over 670 garages. Our garage schemes benefit from consistent and highly competitive pricing on all parts, guaranteed quality parts and service, along with unrivalled garage support, and new customer generation.
PURCHASE FROM OUR APPROVED DISTRIBUTORS Over 600 parts distributor locations in the UK, providing independent garages with access to OE or matched quality parts. Our buying power allows members to pass on the savings, offer an outstanding service and provide added value schemes to garages that no other automotive trade distributor can match. Scan below to find your local distributor.
HIGH QUALITY APPROVED SUPPLIER In the UK we have over 120 Approved Suppliers who undergo a strict tender process agreeing to buying and quality terms for our distributors. You can expect the highest quality parts at highly competitive prices with a service to match from any GROUPAUTO distributor. Please visit our website at www.groupauto.co.uk for our full list of Approved Suppliers.
Scan here to find your local GROUPAUTO distributor. an Alliance Automotive Group company