July issue 2011

MOTOR TRADER MAGAZINE

Ksh 200 Ush 4,000 Tsh 2,500

July 2011 Issue No.9

All the news, races, the cars, the drives @ www.motortrader.co.ke

Exceeding Luxury

July 2011

Mercedes-Benz returns to its core qualities of cossetting comfort, safety and high luxury!

6 164001 538000 >

NEWS

REVIEWS

CAR CLINIC

TECH COUNSEL

MOTORSPORTS

INTERVIEW

Drive in Style

MOZEL

Wide Range Of Cars For Selection

IMPORTERS OF NEW / USED CARS & WE ALSO DO TRADE IN

Railways HQ, Workshop Road Email: mozelmotors@yahoo.com Tel: 020-2218915, 316384 Our Sales Team 0722-405 793 0723-447 945 0722-366 680 0721-218 186

Contents

all the news, races, the cars, the drives @ www.motortrader.co.ke

18

30

Local News What will slow down these speed jets at Black Spots?

Page 6-12 New Car Review We have a look at the new Audi TT and what’s new about it.

Page 16-17

28

16

www.motortrader.co.ke

32

Cover Story The Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG performance sedan.

Page 18-22 Ask the Mech Tips to consider when buying a car Page 24-25 Used Car Review Trying out the BMW 535i Page 26-27 Event Hot Rides and the higlights Page 32-35

36

FEATURES Motor Sports KCB Safari Rally and the highlights Page 36-50

Interviews Lets Talk Pace Notes with Carl Tundo Page 38-39 Book and Movie Review Get to read and watch whats new in the market Page 50-51

Feedback Reviews

Tech Toys

Was wondering if you could have bike reviews. We want to know whats new in the market.

Jimmy Wanjau Via E-mail

I was going through your latest issue and was wondering which are the latest tech toys that guys would consider getting.

Mike Ndiema Via Facebook

Thats a great point Jimmy. We have done something on bikes in this issue. Please check it out. Editor

Well thanks Ndiema. Check on pages 1012 we have something there. Editor

Ask The Mech I have a Toyota Starlet turbo, i love this bug, its small but it does its job quite well. I’ve always been curious on what to do to improve its performance. What do you think?

Mitchelle Via E-mail Thanks Mitchelle, point noted. Well for your Starlet to go faster you can do a couple of things. First you can put a larger turbo, secondly you can change air intake. Also ask your mechanic what is best for you vehicle. Editor

Write to us: Motor Trader P.O Box: 21824, 00400 Email: info@motortrader.co.ke

Follow us on:

Hot Rides We wanted to congratulate the people who organized Hot Rides Motor Show and the hot rides country challenge it was a huge success. When is the next one coming up? and which town is the challenge going to next time round?

Alvin Via Facebook Well thanks Alvin. We hope to keep our readers on toes. As for the next Hot Rides Event we will make sure we inform our readers when the next show may happen.

Editor

CAPTION CONTEST Peter Korir of Embakasi floored the obvious favourites - men - to win the caption contest. He wrote: How many horses are under your hood? Think you can do better than that on this months photo? Send your caption. If we like it, we’ll reward you with 2,000 Ksh. Email: info@motortrader.co.ke or text: 0738-135889; 0718223838

This MONTH

Publisher:

Motor Trader Co. Ltd. P.O. Box 21824, 00400 Tel. 020 8079558/9 Mobile: 0718223838; 0721494545 info@motortrader.co.ke Nairobi

Editor:

Joseph Murai joe@motortrader.co.ke

HR & Administration:

Abdallah Basweti abdallah@motortrader.co.ke

Sales and Marketing: Ismael Nyamache Maureen Kimani Gideon Korir John Karugiah sales@motortrader.co.ke

Art & Layout:

Motor Trader Ltd info@motortrader.co.ke

Photography:

Motor Trader Ltd info@motortrader.co.ke

June has been a very interesting month. We had the privilege of attending Westgate Motor show, and have a taste of the BMW 535i. In this edition, read about the all new Mercedes E 350 AMG, a performance sedan that sprints like a supercar, yet still provides enough room for five people to travel in luxury. Mercedes-Benz describes it as the ultimate “day-to-day dynamic sports saloon”. Still on the luxury vehicles, we test drive the BMW 535i 2004 model and compare it to its predecessors.

This edition also gives you all details about the new Audi TT , it has always had style on its side in the battle to win sales from the other compact sports cars around at its price point. The question is what new features does it bring along and what makes it unique compared with its counterparts?

In men’s thinking, a woman can’t simply talk about cars, she can’t simply love them and can’t actually drive any car out there. Also, when a man sees a car, he immediately catalogs it, before stating what segment it belongs to, as either a girl’s car or a man’s car.

This kind of happens as a consequence of the axiom proclaimed in the beginning. We finally have a women corner where women share their ideas on the motoring industry.

In Motor Sport we take a look at KCB Safari Rally, and talk to Carl Tundo after taking the trophy home.

Lastly, we have the book and movie review. In the book, equip yourself with the basic principles and practices of automotive mechanics.

Have you watched “X-Men: First Class”. Watch it or make sure you include it into your bucket list.

Enjoy!

Distribution:

Jetsam Distributors Ltd

Motor Trader magazine©, the original motoring magazine in Kenya, is published monthly by Motor Trader and distributed in Kenya by Jetsam Distributors Ltd. While utmost care will be taken to ensure accuracy both in the published articles and prices of listed cars and equipment, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any omissions and errors arising. The opinions and representations in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to verify the authenticity/safety of the products/services advertised herein by independently contracting the adviser. No part of this publication including artworks and pictures or any part of the contents (articles) thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior permission of the publisher in writing.

www.motortrader.co.ke

Joseph Murai

joe@motortrader.co.ke

What we’re up to this Month!

This month is special. Some say the Mercedes 124 was the best of it’s class ‘Klasse’ ever built. Well we just had to test it and find out if the rumours are true.

LOCAL NEWS

What will slow down these speed jets at Black Spots?

T

he construction of the country’s roads usually brings a smile on many a driver’s face.

There is some guarantee that there will be reduced wear and tear on their motor vehicles and more efficiency on fuel consumption. Further, they will get to their destinations faster. Most road construction turns them into highways classified into A,B, and C. Most of the roads found in the counties outside the capital city are highway Class C63. A survey carried

by Motor Trader reveal that ironically, there are quite a number of highways that have been turned into merchants of death by this very act of smoothening the motorists’ way.

They have so many black spots. Yet obstructions like bumps are not supposed to be erected on highways! So is there is something the authorities which man these highways do not do or are we supposed to watch and not raise a finger as citizens’ lives are snuffed out by speed-

6 July 2011

By Muroki Gititu

ing jets on four wheels? And why is it that there are bumps to slow down the speeding monsters on the same highways once they enter the Nairobi jurisdiction?

Three C63 highways in the vicinity of Kikuyu Town stand out starkly. The Wangige –Lower Kabete Road traverses busy shopping centres such as King’eero Junction, Kamuti-ini and Kabete itself.

Of major concern is that there are also institutions of learning such Ndongoro Primary School, and Gachio Junior Academy.

As one drives from Wangige Shopping Centre, there is a discernible descent up to the King’eero Junction where it branches to the right as the Lower Kabete Road and ascends ahead to Kikuyu Town.

From Wangige, vehicles, including matatus, pick top speed of even as high as 100 km per hour in seconds. (It’s no secret that speed governors and the 80 km speed limit is material for future fiction thrillers). The point is that vehicles whip past these shopping centres and schools at rocket speeds since there is simply nothing to slow them down; yet these are obviously black spots!

How would a driver, however good he is, control a vehicle going

LOCAL NEWS

downhill at 120 km an hour in case of an emergency – let’s say kids or even adults crossing the road to go to school or to the shopping centres?

And it doesn’t stop there. The Kikuyu Town to Wangige Shopping Centre Road is almost a replica of the one already mentioned. However, this one is sloppier and with more shopping centres as well as schools. Thus it has more black spots as vehicles come hurtling down at even more breakneck speeds. There is only a single bump just next to Kikuyu Bus stage.

As one slopes down towards Wangige Shopping Centre, you pass by Gitaru Stage right after Kikuyu Town. About 100 metres down the road, there is Ngure Primary School to the right and another few metres downslope to the left, the Kanjeru Stage then the turn off to Kanjeru Primary School and Kanjeru Village. These places have heavy human traffic and are definitely black spots but there is absolutely nothing to slow down the speeding vehicles.

Then, the motorists go hurtling down and pass Kanyariri Primary School to the right and Muthure Shopping Centre to the left. This spot (Muthure) has registered so many accidents where pedestrians have been run over by speeding motorists with no action being taken it’s becoming business as usual.

The vehicles fly past Rukubi and the King’eero Juction, where the Lower Kabete Road joins this one at speeds that would make the KNRC drivers green with envy. And a majority of these vehicles (Route Number 129) are contraptions of matatus that make one wonder whether we still have a Vehicle Inspection Unit. (But that is a story for another day).

The Wangige Shopping Centre to Mwimuto onto Lowere Kabete Road tells a similar story. Shopping centres, and schools strewn by the roadside but nothing to slow down vehicles again endangering pedestrians, passengers as well as the drivers themselves.

Just about 200 metres from the shopping centre which is the pulse of the whole constituency and whose heart beat is felt

far and wide, there is the Bishop Kariuki Academy to the right and the Chief ’s camp to the left.

Then further down to the left there are the learning institutions, Kibichiku Primary School and Kibichiku Secondary School before one comes across the busy Mwimuto Shopping Centre – a multiethnic settlement whose residents serve the affluent Kiuna, Spring Valley and New Kitisuru estates.

Not far from here one branches off into Ngecha Road that links the Lower Kabete Road.

Motor Trader couldn’t help noticing that as soon as one gets into the Nairobi City jurisdiction, the situation changes.

On Lower Kabete Road as one approaches the University of Nairobi’s School of Business, there are three bumps barely fifty metres from each other. Then there are another two along the Kenya institute of Administration (KIA) which the school neighbours. Just after the KIA are two more, one before the Nairobi City Council-run Kabete Primary School, and one more after the school. Three more bumps pop up along the road that transverses Lower Kabete Estate proper before one comes across another two; one before and after another City Council-run Farasi Lane Primary School. The other bump is near the turn off to the Spring Valley Police Station.

Note the irony here. On a scantly populated section – after Kabete Primary School, there are three bumps. And that is excluding the two marking out the Farasi Lane Primary School. But where the road passes through dense populations, primary schools and shopping centres and thus so many black spots, not a single one!

Why the bumps on the same class of highway in Nairobi jurisdiction but not in the local authorities’ jurisdiction, where they are apparently needed more? Why are bumps right within Nairobi jurisdiction but not within the local authorities’? Note that this is the same class of road.

Motor Trader sought the views of the Kikuyu Town Council Engineer Mr Kenneth K. Mugo, on this matter. He was in

July 2011

7

agreement with Motor Trader that indeed the highways within Kikuyu were littered with blackspots but was quick to make one point clear.

“Wananchi should note that the Kikuyu Town Council’s hands are tied.

These are highways not within our jurisdiction,” Mr Mugo explained. He added, “ The Nairobi Nakuru highway is under the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA). The Kikuyu Wangige and Wangige Lower Kabete roads are indeed C63 highways and fall under the jurisdiction of the Kenya Rural Roads Authority.”

“The much the Council can do is to communicate our ideas to them urgently; where we have identified the black spots and what should be done,” Mr Mugo said.

He enumerated the major cause of the black spots as the very fast development of settlements along the roads and consequent heavy populations and thus more vehicular traffic. There was also the lack of signs as to the road crossing points meaning that pedestrians do so at any point.

“Drivers are not very keen of the access roads joining the main road. They thus over speed would crash into any vehicle joining the main road from these access roads,” he pointed out.

As far as the highway designs are concerned, Mr Mugo was of the view that they should have service roads. “Access roads should join these service roads first.

It is these service roads that should join the main highway but via a tunnel or fly over. This would ensure that no vehicle would join the highway directly from an access road,” Mr Mugo elaborates closing his case.

Quite some brilliant ideas, don’t you think? Over to you Kenya Rural Roads Authority.

LOCAL NEWS

PORSCHE CONVERTIBLE. Working in the Ford and Mazda service centre in Lusaka Road, Johannesburg based Clive Winterstein prepares his rare 1964 Porsche convertible for the 2006 Concours d’Elegance.

The car was awarded second place in the sports car category after having being driven 5,670 kilometres between Johannesburg and Nairobi.

12,569 KILOMETRE MOTORING ADVENTURE WILL INCLUDE PARTICIPATION IN THE ACCESSKENYA AFRICA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

By Corespondent

A

group of classic car enthusiasts led by Roger Pearce, a former head of the governing body of motor sport in South Africa, will be driving 12,569 kilometres from Cape to Cairo under the “African Odyssey” banner. Their marathon motoring adventure will include three days in Nairobi to participate in the 2011 Accesskenya Africa Concours d’Elegance. The Alfa Romeo Owners Club will hold this event on September 25th at the Nairobi Racecourse.

This will be the third in the series of African Odyssey outings arranged by Roger Pearce who will be driving his 1957 MG Magnette saloon. He will be contesting the class for up to 1,800 cc touring cars in the Concours.

The inspiration for the first African Odyssey in 2006 came from a television programme featuring the Concours d’Elegance which is the classiest event in

the motor sport calendar. Roger invited a few friends to join him for a classic car run to Nairobi to attend the Concours.

Roger has been the South African historic circuit racing champion and has competed in marathon endurance rallies like the London to Sydney and London to Mexico. Having represented his country at the FIA, he is well known in motor sport circles around the world.

His African Odyssey venture quickly attracted enthusiasts from countries a far afield as Australia, England and Germany who shipped their cars to South Africa to join the classic cavalcade from Johannesburg to Nairobi.

Participants in the initial African Odyssey which was held in 2006 added a new international dimension to the Concours d’Elegance. Several of them took home prizes with Peter Aneck-Hahn winning the up to 1,800 cc touring car class in his 8

July 2011

1965 Volvo P1800 coupe which was also placed eighth overall. Clive Winterstein’s rare 1964 Porsche convertible was awarded second place in the sports car category.

Two years later, the African Odyssey brigade again drove 5,670 kilometres from Johannesburg to Nairobi to attend the Concours. The oldest car in classic convoy was a 1957 MGA sports car and the youngest was Les Mcleod’s 1977 Peugeot 404 which was second in the up to 1,800 cc touring car class.

This year’s Cape to Cairo African Odyssey has attracted classic car enthusiasts from six countries and cars are being freighted from Australia, Germany and Mexico for the drive to the pyramids.

Chris Buckley and Sandi Webb who are based in Malawi will motor to Cape Town in their 1964 Volvo to be at the start at the most southern point of the African continent.

LOCAL NEWS

Their classic Volvo is the first ever entry from Malawi for the AccessKenya Africa Concours d’Elegance. They purchased the Volvo in a derelict condition and the car is now undergoing a complete restoration with parts sourced from Britain, South Africa and Sweden.

Chris Buckley and Sandi Webb competed in the 2007 Concours d’Elegance when they were based in Dar es Salaam.

They drove from the Tanzania coast in their 1965 Triumph TR 4A sports car and earned a meritorious award and the prize for the best entry from Tanzania.

Mexico will be represented for the first time by Ron Bellerive and Wendy Wilchynski with a 1971 Volkswagen Camper which will boost the popular class for utility vehicles. Classic car enthusiasts from Namibia will be showing a 1968 MG BGT and a trio of magnificent Mercedes all made in 1970. Going by past Concours results members of the African Odyssey cavalcade are expected to pick up prizes despite the long drive from Cape to Nairobi.

They will be arriving in Nairobi on the Friday before the Concours and will be spending the Saturday at the workshop of the Ford and Mazda Division of the CMC Motors Group to check and repair their cars. The Concours entrants will devote the day to preparing for judging and the parade of all the cars and motorcycles in the event.

Commenting on the African Odyssey participation, Jane Njoroge, the Coordinator of the Concours d’Elegance, said, “We are delighted and proud that the event has been included in the African Odyssey programme. This adds to the status of the Concours which has been recognized and sanctioned by the FIM AFRICA since 2006.”

“Overseas participation in this year’s Concours will help the Alfa Romeo Owners Club to attract more entries from out-

side East Africa in the future. This will strengthen the international reputation of the event, add to spectator interest and promote Kenya as a destination offering more than beach and bush holidays.”

thias Koehler. 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the E-Type and this iconic Jaguar sports car will be given special prominence at major Concours and classic car events around the world.

Turning to the state of car and motorcycle entries, Jane Njoroge said, “Our car entries are nearing the 50 mark which indicates that we will have a full house of 70 before the closing date early in September.”

Jaguar E-Types will feature at the Goodwood Revival in England and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California which is the most important Concours in the world. It is fitting that we will have an E-Type in this year’s AccessKenya Africa Concours d’Elegance.”

1971 Volkswagen Camper “Already there are over 20 motorcycle entries including several of the regulars like Sati Jabbal’s 1925 DKW and his 1941 BSA M20 war bike. We are particularly pleased that the Uganda Bikers Association has entered ten machines including the 2002 BMW 1150 GS of Donato Laboke, the Club’s Chairman.”

“Among the cars which will be seen at the Nairobi Racecourse on September 25th for the first time is the 1974 Ferrari 308 GT4 of Marzio Kravos. This will be the debut appearance of a Ferrari in the 41 year history of the Concours. The Italian performance car will be contesting the competition car class in the Concours and will be driven in the Kenya Airways East African Safari Classic in November by Marzio Kravos.”

“Other crowd pulling cars which will be on show for the first time for viewing

by Concours fans are a 1958 Jaguar Mark V which is being prepared by the staff of Phoenix Aviation working in their spare time and the 1972 Jaguar E-Type of MatJuly 2011

9

The Concours d’Elegance has been organized for the past 41 years by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club to reward the owners of well kept cars and motorcycles and to provide a forum for them to show their prized machines to the motoring public.

The regulations are available on the Concours website www.concourskenya.com together with the regulations for the Classic Sale and Auto Expo (the motor trade section).

The judging of the cars and motorcycles is based on cleanliness and condition without reference to originality. The process for cars commences on the Total inspection ramp in front of the Racecourse grand stands where officials assess the under side. Subsequently cars are driven in front of the grand stands for checks on the external finish, the interior and boot and the engine compartment.

Motorcycles are marked in a similar way in the Racecourse parade ring. Competitors ride their machines between the judging points giving spectators the opportunity to view the bikes.

LOCAL NEWS

Car hire client or Drug trafficker?

J

immy Gitau was doing fairly well for himself. He was operating his own cab in the town centre, a venture which was making at least Ksh 2,000 a day, enough for his bills and a bit of savings. Then he had a brainwave – why not buy a new car and start a selfdrive car hire service?

Gitau presented his case to a local bank and with his savings as part payment, a Toyota Fielder was his and he now set off to establish himself among car hire clients. He printed some new business cards and handed them out to his passengers in the old taxi business and other acquaintances. Being a debutant in the hire business, however, it was not so easy to get the big clients and with a bank loan to pay, he could not afford to be too choosy. And that’s what landed him a blow he shudders to recall to this day.

On a day when business was especially slow, he was approached by a couple who said they wanted to hire his vehicle to attend a dowry ceremony in Western Kenya. They wanted the Fielder for three days over a weekend and were willing to pay Gitau his premium rate of Ksh3,000 per day. How did they know about him?

They had been given his card by a friend who had used his taxi service, they said.

So the paperwork was done, money paid, and they took the vehicle.

But on the very third day that he was expecting to get back his vehicle and any outstanding money, he instead got a visit from the police at the taxi ranks as he

By Muroki Gititu waited for passengers. His car hire vehicle had been involved in an accident in Nakuru and would he accompany them to the station to verify some details?

Strange that his client didn’t call him about the accident, he told the police, but they vaguely told him that the client hadn’t got the chance to. At least Gitau already knew his car was on its way back to Nairobi the previous evening since he had a tracker installed and could trace its movements.

What he did not know, though, was that his clients had not gone on a dowry mission but to ferry bhang to Nairobi!

When Gitau got to the Central Police Station, he learnt that his vehicle had been ferrying a load of bhang to the city from the vicinity of Isebania border only to be intercepted by police in Nakuru.

There had actually not been any accident; it was just a ploy by the police to get his co-operation. But once at the station, he was promptly thrown into the cells. Only one of the vehicle’s occupants had been arrested – and provided Gitau’s contacts – while another two escaped; the police were convinced the car owner was involved.

It would be after another week, and intense interrogation, before Gitau saw freedom again. The fact that one of the bhang traffickers had been arrested notwithstanding, the onus was on him to prove that he was not part of the gang; after all, it was his car that had the drugs.

His fault? He had not done a proper verification of his client’s details before leasing out the car!

10 July 2011

But, really, how deep can one go into a potential hirer’s identification? Can one do a foolproof check to ascertain the true intentions of the client hiring the vehicle? In many cases, especially for informal car hire services like Gitau’s, owners are only too willing to give out the vehicle even with scanty details, as long as the cash is put up upfront and the paperwork signed. Since mostly the vehicle has a tracking device, the owner is not too worried about losing it through theft, but there are even cases where hired vehicles have been sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Many Kenyans have ventured into car hire business but it is a minefield that needs to be carefully negotiated. Whereas the informal services may be giving larger established car rental companies a run for the one-off customers, they are more exposed to risk because this is the territory of the unclean clients, those who do not desire to be probed too deep as would happen with the big companies.

Stiff competition also means that owners are sometimes desperate to hire out the vehicle, especially those with loans on their vehicles like Gitau, and would risk foregoing some vital client requirements.

After his experience, Gitau is now more cautious. He is trying to rope in corporate clients; at least with those, he is sure his vehicle is unlikely to be engaged in criminal activities.

At worst, he asks for referrals from someone he knows before hiring his car out to strangers. It is not realistic, of course, to expect to do profitable business only among friendly circles but some caution will lessen the risk of burning his fingers, he says.

LOCAL NEWS

FORD RANGER VEHICLES ROAD-SHOW John Mwangi of the Ford and Mazda Division of the CMC Motors Group, waves as he drives off in a Ranger pick-up during the first leg of the Company’s road-show. This covered the Eastern Province which included Salama, Sultan Hamud, Email, Mtito Andei , Kibwezi, Makindu, Wote and Machakos towns.

By correspondent

T

o bring vehicles closer to people in rural areas, the Ford and Mazda Division of the CMC Motors Group has launched a Ford Ranger road-show programme. The first of the series covered the Eastern Province which included Salama, Sultan Hamud, Email, Mtito Andei , Kibwezi, Makindu, Wote and Machakos towns.

The unique design and style of the Ford Ranger double and single cab pickups generated a lot of interest from the public and motorists on the Mombasa Road and local radio stations.

Ken Nzioka, the General Manager of

orld W y as

t Fan

Ford and Mazda, said, “We are taking the single and double cab Ford Ranger vehicles from our showroom in Lusaka Road in Nairobi to Kenyans outside the capital. For every confirmed order during the road-show, the Company is offering a free Dayun motorcycle while stocks last.”

“The Ranger double and single cab pick-ups are built tough for the East African roads and are noted for reliability.

They are equipped with a 2.5 litre turbo diesel engine which is powerful and fuel efficient making these pick-ups ideal for both leisure driving and work.”

“Ford vehicles are available in Nairobi and from the seven CMC branches in the country. The Company also stocks spares and provides maintenance and repair services,” concluded Ken Nzioka.

See how YOUR vehicle compares against the best

VS

R OWE

TORQUE

0-100KPH

TOP SPEED

PRICE

DRIVEN BY?

Great

268 bhp

350 NM

6.3 Sec.

320 Kph

aprxt 8m

Your Boss!!

OK

2010 MERCEDES E350

178 bhp

255 NM

8.5 Sec.

225 Kph

P

Great

“The contemporary and sporty exterior and interior design details of the Ford Ranger double cab make credible lifestyle choice, while its versatility and ‘tough truck’ underpinnings make it a robust and reliable work partner.”

600k used

Maina, kimani, waweru

1992 MERCEDES E300

OK

LOCAL NEWS

AKI’s data system to boost motor insurance industry

T

he motor insurance industry does not have a good name in Kenya. If anything, it is a sector that is fraught with mistrust between insurers and their clients.

To put this relationship on a straight road, the Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI), is in the process of establishing a motor insurance data system that it hopes will improve the perception of the insurance industry through enabling issues such as faster claims processing time arising from information being more readily available. The system targets to increase the efficiency and transparency of insurance companies.

The data system has been in the pipeline for almost 10 years, with a previous project being undertaken by the Credit Reference Bureau cancelled in 2003, but once operational, it will aid the industry to detect and reduce fraudulent claims as well as authenticate the claims that are payable. This is one issue that has been a sticking point for clients and insurers alike and has led to the demise of quite a number of companies, and losses to the insured. Even among those companies still in business, a large number are those who view their motor claims log with sus-

By Muroki Gititu picion and are reluctant to pay.

AKI’s proposed data system is meant to ease the burden and will provide a statistical hub for the industry by enabling sharing of information on a wide range such as stolen motor vehicles, salvage data, written-off and uninsured motor vehicles, among others. It will ensure physical verification of motor vehicle details and condition as well as capture and share any declined business or cancelled policies.

One major grouse with the insurance companies is that some clients are serial claimants, working in cahoots with unethical legal and police officers. Such clients lodge frequent claims for accidents whose actual occurrence cannot be verified, while the insurer is vilified for not paying, or not paying on time. Recently, one insurer resorted to going to court for protection against paying claims until they are verified. Other pitfalls are that the industry does not have up to date data on the vehicles, with some of it deliberately altered for purposes of getting the required policies.

Yet, in some cases it is not the vehicle owner’s fault that the insurance does not stand. The insurance industry is bedev12 July 2011

iled by a lot of failures, more so due to misrepresentations by some insurance companies and, or, their agents. In past years before the overseer, the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) got more clout, many were the clients who would chug along the road happy in the knowledge that their car was insured, only to crash in shock when involved in an accident and learn that their certificate was in fact, a forgery. The agent did not forward the client’s payment to the insurer so the policy did not even exist!

Even with the good work of the Authority to rid the motor insurance sector of rotten fruits, much still has to be done to place public confidence where it is meant to be and the sooner AKI’s data system is up and running, the better.

Motor insurance is an issue that is ever at the back of our minds, whether we are driving or not. It is definitely not a good experience to be the victim, or culprit, in an accident where the vehicle did not have valid insurance. The monetary and other costs involved are enough to drive one up the wall.

INTL NEWS

Walking Instead of Driving

A

person uses about 2 Kcal per minute by seating on a chair.

That person will double that consumption just by sitting up and taking a few steps. By speeding up the metabolism it he/she will use about 7 kcal per minute. This way, a number of things are accomplished: - He/she will avoid stress in the intersections; - Back pain caused by the uncomfortable seats in modern cars will be long forgotten; - He/she will smilingly watch the morning news announcing a new increase in fuel prices; - He/she will actively participate in creating a cleaner and more beautiful world; - He/she will find the secret of keeping a beautiful silhouette for ever.

Nothing from what the car is offering you - even a sporty one, with little horsies on the hood – will be more beneficial to you than walking with your own legs.

Like magic, your muscles will tone and your waist will become more svelte. Maybe even thinking about my proposal will tire you down, but I’ll throw in a couple of reasons: More energy. Maybe you won’t believe it, but after taking a stroll you’ll become

By correspondent more energetic and full of life. The tension disappears and the pulmonary capacity increases, meaning you become more resistant to fatigue. Current research has shown that physical activity triggers a hormone which increases energy levels.

So you’ll get rid of the added cost at the pump, as well as the chocolate you used to eat during lunch time, since you don’t need those anymore. With the saved money I suggest you buy yourself a present.

Zero stress. Physical activity stimulates the production of biochemical substances in the organism. An example would be serotonin, which gives us a feeling of wellness. Also, because of the increase in the internal body temperature, after a walk we’ll feel as relaxed as after a hot bath.

Yummy!

A healthy mind. After a small obstacle to tackle in the beginning, you’ll realize that there’s a healthier and a much more creative mind in your healthy body.

Great blood flow. Walking stimulates the increase of HDL - which is good cholesterol – with up to 20%. HDL helps eliminating LDL – which is bad cholesterol since it clogs the arteries - from the blood circulation. What’s more, triglycerides – which is actually fat in the blood – drop by up to 40% after a more

dynamic stroll. They are converted into fat acids, which is energy, by the calorie burn caused by physical activity. You can forget about cardio-vascular illnesses or obesity. Walking is your only ally in the fight against the fast-food joints stalking you at every corner.

Stamina. A sustained walk which becomes an everyday habit means health.

The cardiac rhythm accelerates and the blood begins to send immune cells into the organism, which protect you from illness. The immune cells detect enemies of the organism – for example viruses – and annihilate them. You can forget about colds and flues, not to mention other grave illnesses which surround us.

These are just some of the most important motives for which you HAVE to get rid of the car you drive at least for half an hour a day. Plus, you should be practical and think about the inherent costs that come with driving your car, the road on which you do, the emissions with which you poison the ones around you and yourself. For a walk you only need a few things: - A casual pair of sports shoes; wear the cotton socks you’re going to use when trying on your first sports shoes. If you feel them comfortable then you can buy them.

It is the only criteria; - Casual clothing, meaning an undershirt, a top and soft pants, which follow the line of the body. Avoid tight or loose clothing which may hinder your movements; - A bottle of water to hydrate you and help the body eliminate toxins; - Avoid carrying non-useful things; - Always have a flashlight on you in the case you’re having a stroll at night or you adventuring through the woods; - Remember to always look forward, move your arms around your body and don’t drag you feet. Also, you should keep a straight back.

It’s all in the attitude!!

“Girls Only”

Women & Cars

by Emily Kamau

This way of thinking is so well established that even women themselves are starting to fall for the same way of thinking. The category where my editorials are going is called “Girls Only”, so some people might think that’s a consequence of the same axiom. I would like to clarify this subject and say that the category’s name was given from the perspective of the person who’s writing about cars – and yes, I’m a woman – not from the perspective of this editorial’s theme, the supposed cars for women.

One of my friends weighs over 100 kilograms and there are very few car seats in which he feels comfortable, or that don’t squeeze him or poke his ribs. He always says that the cars whose seats are like that are “for women”.

Another friend of mine loves powerful engines and, although he seems to be a wise person, when it comes to cars he’s only pleading for those in the aforementioned category, even if today’s electronic systems found on most vehicles and busy traffic make powerful engines pretty much obsolete. I keep telling him this but all I get as a response is the fact that I don’t understand because those are not “cars for women”.

In just about every parking lot in the city we can find at least one “tuned” car – meaning a vehicle en14 July 2011

gulfed in a bodykit to the ground and ruining the aerodynamics, with a rear wing that turns any 75 horsepower car into a LeMans racer. It can also have a vomit-inducing color and an exhaust that sounds like a dying animal. This, my dear ladies, is called a “man’s car” in almost every discussion between guys.

A Beetle is a “woman’s car” since it has a small vase near the steering wheel for a flower, while a man who drives a Mini Cooper is most definitely gay. A Porsche Cayenne Turbo is a “man’s car”, a Cayenne S is perfect for a female artist while the base, less-powerful models are just “family cars”.

On numerous occasions I hear about couple’s arguments when choosing a car. She feels the need to talk about the upholstery while he says it has to be silver, for example. Men handle the exterior, while girls are all about the interior. He knows what color is more “resistant” to scratches and dirt,

USED CAR OF THE MONTH

I

n men’s thinking, a woman can’t simply talk about cars, she can’t simply love them and can’t actually drive any car out there. Also, when a man sees a car, he immediately catalogs it, before stating what segment it belongs to, as either a girl’s car or a man’s car. This kind of happens as a consequence of the axiom proclaimed in the beginning.

BMW 535i

Smart view: How the new AMG compares with the rest!

People should really have girded themselves for the 5 Series given the unconventional styling of the 7 Series and then the Z4 roadster

“Girls Only”

while she wants to choose an upholstery that will resist the test of time better. He wants masculine lines, she wants pleasant touches.

When either of them tries to step on each other’s territory then sparks begin to fly out: “you’re a man and you don’t understand”, “you’re a woman and that pretty much settles it,” etc. We’re all living under the impression that our sex automatically gives us a competence on the matter and we can’t even move on because of it.

A while ago, a friend bought himself a rather powerful BMW X6. He was very excited about his new toy especially since it drew so much attention among his pals.

His wife was worried that her husband might also turn the heads of other women at the traffic light. After a while though they had a baby and the “sporty” car became a small, safe and easy to maneuver family car, a “woman’s car”.

I’m also convinced that you’ve noticed how almost everybody says that a limo is only fit for certain occasions, like a wedding or a business lunch. As if its comfort would hinder us if we used it all the time.

A Jeep is only fit for the mountains, a convertible for the Coast while a Vitz for the

crowded city we live in.

Engulfed in a variety of stereotypes and marketing rules we forget the fact that the streets have almost the same width everywhere in the world, parking spaces are quasi-identical anywhere you go and we have pretty much the same body shape no matter the meridian we’re on.

It makes me sad to see that not all people are expressing themselves freely when talking about the car which enters our seeing path and our dreams. We should do it with humor and without prejudice, not like a defense lawyer or a prosecutor. I say that we move on from the stereotypes, start enjoying beauty anywhere we find it and realize that we can talk about the downsides of a car without bringing sex into the equation. Without any complex and completely relaxed.

Stereotypes only shorten or even shut off our communication channels, common sense, free will and even our personalities. Let us free ourselves!

Top Ten Vehicle Manufacturers Lexus has come top in the influential JD Power Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study for the 11th year running, with a score of 845 out of 1,000. Lexus scored particularly highly in three of the four key categories: vehicle quality and reliability, vehicle appeal, and service satisfaction.

The fourth category is “ownership costs”.

Coming in second was Honda with a score of 833 followed by Jaguar and Skoda with a tie of points at 825 each. Honda received two awards for the Honda Accord for upper medium car and the Honda Jazz for small car.

The BMW 5 series received an award for executive luxury car as did the Mercedes Benz E Class. The MPV award went to the Citroen C3 Picasso and the Toyota Aygo received an award for city car. The Skoda Octavia also received an award.

JD Power reported that despite economic pressures on car makers and consumers, vehicle ownership satisfaction levels in the UK had increased above those measured in 2010, with improvements across all aspects of the “ownership experience”.

Whats beneath this work of art?

ENGINE: Seven engines are available in the mainstream line up, the 520i, the 525i, the 530i, the 545i, the 525 diesel, the 530d diesel and the 535d.

DRIVE: Dynamic Drive, BMW’s active suspension, and Active Cruise Control, a system that automatically controls distances to the car in front.

July 2011

15

INTERIOR: Although it doesn’t rest easily on the eye, we’ll probably grow used to it in due course.

INTL NEWS

Audi TT

Y

ou don’t invest in a compact sports car because it’s got a big boot or good fuel economy. Both would be nice but a car like this is primarily a feel-good purchase. It should put a smile on your face when you’re driving it and bring a glint to your eye when you pull the curtains and catch sight of it glistening in the morning dew on your driveway. The Audi TT comes with all of the emotional accessories that a good compact sports car should. Even better, the latest models turn in improved economy and the boot isn’t bad either.

The original Audi TT deserves to go down as a great in the annals of modern car design. In 1998, we hadn’t seen anything quite like it and those daring curves still hold water today alongside that finely detailed cabin. The second generation

by correspondent

model never caused the same stir when it showed up in 2006. This TT was more formulaic Audi, displaying a clearer visual link to the rest of the marque’s model range. It was still a handsome devil though and few would dispute that it was also a comprehensively better car.

Today, that second generation TT continues to seduce buyers. Expansions to the engine range have greatly widened its appeal, as have revisions to the styling and measures to keep running costs to a minimum. There are lots of other models gunning for the TT but scoring a hit on Audi’s finest might just be tougher than ever.

The cornerstone of the current TT range is Audi’s 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged petrol engine. The four-cylinder unit is ubiquitous in compact and medium-sized performance cars right across 16 July 2011

the Volkswagen Group empire and its smooth, powerful character rarely fails to impress. In standard guise, the engine produces 209bhp with the aid of Audi’s Valvelift technology which works in conjunction with the direct injection system to optimise the combustion process. The standard unit takes just 6.1s to get the TT through 60mph but the TTS uses the same engine with a larger turbocharger to produce 268bhp and a 5.2s sprint.

“Much of what Audi has come to represent is mirrored in the cool, modern design of the TT” If we take the 2.0 TFSI as the mainstream engine option, it’s possible to go up or down the power scale from there. The 158bhp 1.8 TFSI petrol unit is reserved for the TT Roadsder but the 168bhp 2.0 TDI diesel engine is offered in both TT bodystyles. This unit has a 7.5s time for the 0-60mph sprint and there’s real muscle in the shape of 350Nm maximum torque that’s produced from 1,750rpm.

All of which leaves only the mighty TT RS with its 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine

INTL NEWS achieving 345bhp with the aid of a turbocharger and 450Nm of torque. This TT has the potential to hit 174mph with its speed limiter removed and cover the 0-60mph sprint in a searing 4.6s. Fit the optional S Tronic dual clutch gearbox and that time is lowered to 4.4s.

The more powerful TT models have quattro four-wheel-drive with the lesser models sending power to the front wheels as standard. The quattro system delivers superb traction and gives the TT the means to go head to head with its predominantly rear-wheel-drive rivals at the top end of the sports coupe market.

Some enthusiasts will turn their noses up at the idea of a front-wheel-drive sports

SPEC-SHEET

AUDI TT ENGINE (2ltr tfsi/tdi & 3ltr) 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine 345Bhp

Performance 7.91/ 100km

TORQUE (EEC Nm) @rpm 450Nm

TRANSMISSION S Tronic dual clutch gearbox

TOP SPEED (kph) 260Kph

car but the TT still handles with real poise and agility in this guise so the entry-level models shouldn’t be discounted.

The TT has always had style on its side in the battle to win sales from the other compact sports cars around at its price point. The latest models sharpenup their looks with an aggressive front bumper design incorporating larger air intakes and a diffuser integrated into the more subtly restyled bumper at the rear. An even more purposeful look can be obtained by upgrading to an S Line model, the TTS or the TT RS, which get progressively more extreme in their exterior design.

The cabin of the TT retains the special feel that has marked the TT out since the word go. Yes, visibility is less than panoramic but that fascia still feels smart, with greater use of classy aluminium finishes than ever. The latest car borrows from the original TT’s design, with the chrome-ringed speedo and rev counter housed in their own cowl and the round air vents, but also adds a few contemporary design touches such as the gorgeous flat-bottomed steering wheel, the angled centre console and a sporty seating position. There’s decent luggage space but space in the back seats could still be generously described as woeful.

All mainstream TT models now come in either Sport or S Line trim - the exceptions being the entry-level 1,8 TFSI TT Roadster (which comes in a lower spec ‘standard’ guise) and the TTS and TT RS high performance derivatives. In Sport trim, there’s leather and Alcantara upholstery, 17” alloy wheels and a 9-speaker stereo as well as climate control, a trip computer and front fog lights. The S Line adds sports suspension that’s 10mm lower, sports seats, Xenon headlights with LED running lights and a host of styling upgrades.

The TT uses a mix of aluminium and steel in its construction to optimise weight distribution and rides on an independent suspension system with McPherson struts at the front and a fourlink trailing arm arrangement at the rear.

Audi’s Magnetic Ride adaptive damper technology is available as an optional exJuly 2011

17

tra on mainstream models and allows the driver to select Sport or Normal modes for a firmer or more comfortable ride depending on the driving conditions. Magnetic Ride can also be accompanied by the Sport button as debuted on the TT RS, this also adapts the engine note, the power steering and the throttle response (on manual cars only) for a livelier feel.

We’ve seen the TT range expand upwards with barnstorming TTS and RS performance models but there have also been developments in the lower reaches of the range with a view to conserving fuel. The 2.0 TDI and 1.8 TFSI models now feature Audi’s energy recuperation system which recaptures kinetic energy when the car is coasting or braking to charge the battery.

The result is highly impressive 53mpg fuel economy for the 2.0 TDI models with 139g/km emissions. The 2.0 TFSI TTs manage 42mpg with 154g/km emissions which is also a strong showing considering the performance they achieve.

Audi hasn’t been short of success of late but even against the backdrop of the brand’s eye-catching accomplishments, the TT sports car must still go down as a highlight. Much of what Audi has come to represent is mirrored in the cool, modern design of the TT and a diverse range makes sure it stays affordable while still being taking seriously by enthusiast drivers.

From the 53mpg 2.0 TDI model to the 345bhp TT RS, the Audi TT range has something to offer the majority of buyers in the market for compact sports cars. In front or four-wheel-drive guise, it offers tenacious grip and nimble handling with the refinement to make it a rewarding daily drive. Sitting in the back seats isn’t a realistic possibility for most adults but few rivals do significantly better, if they have four seats at all, and otherwise, the TT remains a highly worthwhile investment.

COVER STORY

Exceeding Luxury

T

by correspondent

he Mercedes-Benz E-Class is now in its ninth generation and sees Mercedes-Benz return to its core qualities of cossetting comfort, safety and high luxury. But most importantly, Mercedes says it signals a return to engineering integrity. After the issues and reliability problems that dogged the previous Mercedes E-Class, especially in the early days, this is an important area for the firm if it wants to regain its reputation for strong build quality and reliability.

First impressions are very favourable and the E-Class certainly feels well built when you get behind the wheel.

From the heavy ‘thud’ of the doors, to the solid feel of the dash and buttons, it’s clear this is a far superior car to its predecessor. There’s also a welcome return to the more angular interior styling of older Mercedes models, giving a functional and sturdy feel - although it’s perhaps not as inviting as other premium cars such as the Jaguar XF.

18 July 2011

COVER STORY

July 2011 19

COVER STORY MERCEDES-BENZ launched the new E63 AMG performance sedan into its showrooms, priced $4056 (365,00 ksh) less than the model it replaces and boasting more power, improved efficiency and an increased level of standard equipment.

Sitting at the top of the E-Class range and the fifth generation of AMG-enhanced E-Class, the W212 E63 AMG combines the fresh new bodywork of the new EClass sedan with the sophisticated powertrain and drivetrain of the SL 63 AMG..

The suspension has also been heavily revised, and the E63 puts out more power and more torque than that other German super-sedan, the BMW M5.

The result is a performance sedan that sprints like a supercar, yet still provides enough room for five people to travel in luxury. Mercedes-Benz describes it as the ultimate “day-to-day dynamic sports saloon”.

Styling Like its predecessor, the 2010 E63 AMG takes the basic sedan bodyshell and adds a heap of muscle and testosterone.

Aside from the 17mm wider front quarter panels, sheetmetal is shared with garden-variety E-Class sedans. However, aggressive bumpers, sideskirts and a bootlip spoiler transform the E-Class from mild to menacing.

The LED running lamps have been straightened out, and the front bumper’s cooling apertures are now larger. Like the old E63, sharklike ‘gills’ evacuate air from behind each cheek vent and “6.3 AMG” badges sit within their own recesses just behind the front wheels.

The headlamp clusters feature tinted lenses, however the grille is the same as

that used by the E500 sedan.

The side skirts are deeper and feature different contouring to the more prosaic E-Class models, and a set of attractive 19-inch AMG alloys fill out each wheelwell.

The rear bumper is lower than the E500 and houses four rhomboid chrome exhaust tips, while a black insert fills the gap between them.

The chrome rubbing strips that wrap around the regular E-Class’s flanks and rump are deleted, and the E63 presents a cleaner, smoother look.

It’s still businesslike, but there’s no mistaking the E63’s more athletic intent. Want yours to look even more purposeful?

An optional carbon fibre trim package is available, as are redpainted brake calipers.

Interior While the E63’s cabin shares its basic layout with other E-Class sedans, there’s one major difference: instead of the column-mounted shift lever used by the E500 sedan, the E63 features a floor-mounted shifter similar in function to that used by the SLS AMG. Short and stubby, the E63’s gear lever is surrounded by controls for the adjustable dampers, stability control and seven-speed t ransm i ss i o n.

Because of the addition of a centre console-mounted shifter, the cupholders and COMAND controller have been relocated further rearward.

The rest of the cabin is familiar EClass fare, except with a few E63-spe20 July 2011

cific flourishes. DT-Dobie offers the E63 at a higher standard specification level, and one of the extra goodies applied to the E-Class flagship is the luxurious Exclusive Package interior.

The Exclusive Package brings an Alcantara headliner, AMG floormats and Nappa leather trim on the upper dashboard, door cards and centre console, and the E63 also enjoys stainless steel pedals, AMG sill plates and an AMG instrument cluster as standard.

The front seats are all-electric and offer more lateral support than the standard E-Class pews. Trimmed in Nappa leather, the seat upholstery is available in three different colours. Those wanting a sportier look for their cabin can also opt for an interior carbonfibre trim package.

SPEC-SHEET

Mercedes E 350 AMG ENGINE (2ltr tfsi/tdi & 3ltr) 6.2 liter V8 518Bhp direct injection technology

Performance 12.6 L/100 km

TORQUE (EEC Nm) @rpm 630 Nm @6800

TRANSMISSION 7-speed AMG Speedshift

TOP SPEED (kph) N/A

COVER STORY

Equipment and Features As befits a Mercedes flagship, the E63 is packed with technology.

Aside from the COMAND APS navigation and entertainment system, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, auto-on headlamps, reversing camera and parking sensors, the E63 also ships with heated and ventilated front seats, keyless entry and ignition, retractable sunblinds for the rear occupants, Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Assist.

A premium surround-sound system features a CD stacker and iPod connectivity, and a built-in TV tuner receives analogue and digital broadcasts and displays them on the dash-mounted LCD display. Compared to the outgoing E63, the new model packs an extra Ksh 2.5m worth of equipment for ksh 365,000 less.

Optional equipment includes radarguided cruise control, a pedestrian-detecting night vision system, a rear seat DVD player and tyre pressure sensors.

Passive safety hardware comprises a comprehensive suite of 11 airbags (front airbags, side airbags for front and rear occupants, hip airbags for the front seats, curtain airbags and a driver’s knee air-

bag), along with pretensioning three-point seatbelts.

Active safety is handled by multi-stage stability control, traction control, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist. Mercedes-Benz’s Pre-Safe crash mitigation system is standard on the E63, as is its Attention Assist fatigue-detection system.

Opting for the Distronic radar-guided cruise control also brings Benz’s collision-detecting Pre-Safe Brake and Brake Assist Plus packages, which use the cruise control’s radar hardware to determine when the car is approach an object too quickly and a crash is imminent. If the driver doesn’t heed the warnings issued by the system, Pre-Safe Brake can slow the car autonomously not enough to stop the crash, but with enough force to reduce the severity of it.

Mechanical Package AMG’s venerable 6.2 litre naturally-aspirated V8 has been tuned to deliver 386kW and 630Nm - the same amount of torque, but 8kW more than the outgoing W211 E63’s engine.

It’s essentially the same motor used by the SL63 AMG roadster, and it provides more than enough grunt to get the big E-

Class moving smartly.

The race-derived quad-cam V8 utlises a super-strong aluminium bed plate block design and is also the first AMG engine to utilise an economy-improving alternator management system - which reduces drag on the engine by only engaging the alternator during over-run and braking.

Backing up the big V8 is the SL63’s 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT automatic gearbox, which differs from conventional autos in that it uses a wet clutch to control power delivery instead of a power-sapping torque converter.

The result is a more direct transfer of power from the engine’s crankshaft to the gearbox, and a sharper, more responsive transmission. The wet clutch also allows the gearbox to be more versatile; capable of delivering smooth, slurred shifts as well as brutally direct gearchanges.

Control ling the Speedshift MCT’s behaviour is a small rotary knob located to the right of the gear selector. Through it, the driver can dial up the econo my- o r i e n ted Comfort mode, a slightly shaper Sport mode, an even sportier Sport Plus mode and a fully manual shift mode.

Manual mode holds each gear until the driver taps one of the steering wheelmounted paddles or nudges the tiptronic shifter, and perfect rev-matched down-

IN DETAIL

BONNET:

AMG’s venerable 6.2 litre naturally-aspirated V8 has been tuned to deliver 386kW and 630Nm - the same amount of torque, but 8kW more than the outgoing W211 E63’s engine.

ENGINE:

Backing up the big V8 is the SL63’s 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT automatic gearbox, which differs from conventional autos in that it uses a wet clutch to control power delivery

July 2011

21

ENGINEERING:

The wet clutch also allows the gearbox to be more versatile; capable of delivering smooth, slurred shifts as well as brutally direct gearchanges.

STYLING:

Like its predecessor, the 2010 E63 AMG takes the basic sedan bodyshell and adds a heap of muscle and testosterone.

COVER STORY

changes are executed when in Sport or Manual mode.

In Sport Plus and Manual mode, the Speedshift MCT can swap ratios in just 100 milliseconds.

Launch control is a standard feature of the E63, and enables it to launch from zero to 100km/h in a catlike 4.5 seconds. Not quite as fast as the BMW M5’s 4.4 seconds, but then again the E63 has 1840kg to lug around - significantly more than the M5’s 1755kg kerb weight.

The E63 AMG features an entirely unique front suspension, with a 56mm wider track width, new control arms, unique hub knuckles, tubular stabiliser bar, stronger wheel bearings and stiffer dampers, springs and bushings.

The E63’s front suspension still utilises MacPherson struts, but nearly every other aspect has been changed.

The multi-link rear suspension has also come in for some reinforcement and geometry revisions, while airbags are employed rather than conventional steel coils. Damper firmness is adjustable from within the cabin, allowing the driver to tailor the E63’s ride to their liking.

The steering rack ratio has been quickened to 14:1 (thus making it 22 percent more direct than the standard rack), and speed-sensitive power steering adds more weight to the wheel at speed.

The standard brake package consists

of sizable 360mm ventilated and crossdrilled steel rotors, the front pair gripped by six-piston calipers and the rear by four-piston calipers.

An optional carbon-composite brake package will be offered in the future, although an availability date for the Australian market has yet to be finalised. The package replaces the steel rotors with carbon ceramic discs measuring an enormous 402mm at the front, while the rear carbon discs remain 360mm in diameter but are 6mm thicker.

Mounted on aluminium hats, each carbon ceramic rotor is around 40 percent lighter than the standard steel items, and help improve handling, acceleration, ride comfort and, of course, braking performance.

22 July 2011

Mercedes Delivers its 550,000th E-Klasse Model The Mercedes E-Klasse proved to be one of the buyers’ favourite car models, when it achieved a milestone recently. The model has sold its 550,000th unit, marking a significant success in the history of the German automaker.

According to the figures provided by the automaker, most of the consumers purchasing the E-Klasse choose the sedan version, which has sold a total of 376,000 units and forms the backbone of the line-up.

Aside from the sedan, another top-selling version is the coupe - which has sold a total of 110,000 units. Meanwhile, the estate version, having a more pretentious body style, has sold a total of 64,000 units.

Launched in March 2009, the Mercedes EKlasse 550,000-unit sales is evidence of great development, as it sells best in key auto markets of the world.

Germany is the model’s largest market but this is followed by China, which demonstrates that the emerging markets are indicating an increased interest in the model as well.

Joachim Schmidt, Vice President of Mercedes Benz Sales & Marketing, said, “Until today we have delivered more than 500,000 vehicles of the E-Class family to customers, and the E-Class is and will remain a key pillar of growth for Mercedes-Benz.”

“We offer our customers an unparalleled range of products in this segment, encompassing a sedan, an estate, a coupe, and a convertible. At the same time, the E-Class is setting benchmarks not only for market success but also with regard to safety, profitability and efficiency” he added.

List your vehicles Absolutely Free

@ www.motortrader.co.ke

ASK THE MECH

Tips for Buying a Used Car; Everything that has to be done, well... takes time!

Buying a used car can be risky. After all, how do you know if it’s a ‘cut–and–shut’ just by looking at it? You can’t, but with our help, you could land yourself a real gem instead of a lemon. Here are some tips depending on where you choose to buy.

P

itfalls when buying a used car Clocking: Where the odometer has been wound back on a high–mileage car in order to raise the asking price. Every 1,000 miles removed increases the value substantially. This is illegal.

Most modern vehicles have digital odometers which can be tampered with, using a laptop and some specialised software leaving no visible evidence of interference.

Older cars may display the more conventional clues of clocking. Examine the dashboard for worn screws; the instruments may have been tampered with.

Chips and scratches made by stones across the front of the bonnet, grille and bumper can be an indication of lots of motorway journeys.

Worn pedal rubbers or a shiny, worn steering wheel should raise suspicions if the odometer shows a low mileage.

Similarly, an older vehicle that has virtually new pedals/gear stick and/or up-

holstery may also indicate that something is being hidden.

Most cars average around 10,000 miles per year. Check that the mileage on the clock roughly ties in with the age and appearance of the car.

The vehicle documents may also help corroborate the mileage. Check the mileages on the service records and certificates. Contact the garages that performed the work and ask them to confirm the mileage they recorded at the time of the service.

You can also contact the previous keeper on the logbook and ask them what the mileage was on the vehicle when they bought and sold it. That is if the car ‘s previous owner was a local also. If not you just have to use a qualified mechanic who would advice you.

If, after all these checks, you still have any doubts, walk away. Trust me this would be the best idea you would have made your entire life. Never be in a hurry to buy a car, it’s an investment which may come back to haunt you one time of your life if you make the wrong decision.

Car cloning – vehicle identity theft One car is given the identity of another by replacing the number plates with those from an almost identical vehicle - same make, model and colour.

This is done either to mask the true identity of a stolen vehicle or, more basically, stolen cars to avoid police tracking and the like.

Number plates may be physically stolen or purchased from unscrupulous suppliers in which case the thieves don’t ever have to touch the car being cloned. It has been a popular trick among thieves.

If you spot a car with similar 24 July 2011

number plates report it to the police/authorities straight away.

If you’re buying a car be particularly wary of anything without a logbook (though these can be forged and should not be considered absolute proof of who ‘owns’ the vehicle) and service history (garage bills etc.) Consistent with the vehicle’s age. Check all documentation carefully to make sure they tell a consistent story and that they match the vehicle.

Consider getting the car professionally inspected for peace of mind. You can also get the number plate registration and confirm through KRA, it’s free and its so easy.

Confirm if the names registered on the logbook are similar to the person selling you the vehicle.

If you are unfortunate enough to ‘buy’ a cloned vehicle then you will lose both the car and any money paid for it.

Make sure you provide the logbook serial number and issue date so that it is confirmed the details are legitimate.

Always view and buy from the registered keepers address as detailed on the logbook – not from a car park, motorway service station, lay-by etc.

Don’t pay less than 70% of the market value of the vehicle.

Make sure you get a proper receipt for the purchase, detailing the vehicle, price,

ASK THE MECH

How to avoid the pitfalls and the sellers details.

‘Half Cut’ This is when the remains of two or more cars, which have usually been accident–damaged and written off by insurers, are welded together, then illegally given the identity of one of the wrecks.

The cosmetic work is often outstanding, and it’s usually very difficult to spot a ‘Half Cut’ from the outside.

Buying a used car privately Don’t buy a car on ‘private sale’ terms if you suspect the seller might be a broker.

If you call in response to an advert, say you’re calling ‘about the car you advertised’. If the seller has to ask which car, they may be a broker.

Be wary of adverts quoting mobile numbers or numbers that appear in several ads.

Don’t let the owner bring the car to you or meet you in a ‘dingy’ petrol station or similar – view it at their home, car yard, in daylight. Take someone with you for company and security.

Does the seller really appear to be the owner? Is it their home or car yard? They should be familiar with the car and its controls.

General advice for buying a used car Wherever you choose to buy, here are some general tips on buying a used car.

Budget well: Include the cost of insurance, tax, change of user and any work that may be needed.

Do your homework: Check our price guide and compare similar cars in the classifieds so you know as much as you can about the value of different cars to avoid being overcharged.

Research the seller if possible.

If you’re buying from a dealer, make sure they are registered traders, and are members of an industry body like Mozel Motors, GIGI or Karen Motors.

Never view a car in the rain, in poor light or at night. You won’t be able to evaluate the condition of the car effectively – water obscures scratches, dents and other problems. Make sure you can see the vehicle clearly and from all angles.

Ask about the car’s service history: check any documentation provided, including current and previous MOT certificates.

Insist on seeing the Logbook: this registration document shows the registered owner of the vehicle. If not, contact them to find out more about when they owned the car, what work was done and how many kilometers they did in it.

Check the seller has a current certificate of insurance: see if the mileage on these certificates agrees with the service records, double check that the mileage increases at a consistent rate each year.

Handle with care: be wary of anything that seems like a real bargain, or has a very low mileage for its age to help you avoid making a mistake when you buy a used car, get a qualified mechanic to tag along, if you do decide to go it alone, use our inspection checklist to make sure you look the car over thoroughly.

Check the service record: ensure that the cam belt has been replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Contact the dealer who stamped the service records at the appropriate time interval and ask if they completed the required work on the vehicle. If the record’s not clear it will have to be replaced – if a belt fails, you might have to buy a whole new engine.

Check the handbook: Confirm how the security system works. Find out what keys were provided when the car was new.

Modern car keys are expensive to replace, particularly the ‘master’ key provided by some manufacturers to programme new spare keys to the car. There should be at July 2011

25

by correspondent

least one spare key – ask why if there isn’t.

Test-drive the car before committing yourself: it’s the only way to assess whether the car meets all your needs you’ll find out about its mechanical condition too. If possible, do a cold start and a hot start, and see if there are any differences in performance.

Be vigilant: Look for mismatched panels and colours on doors, new front and rear lights bonnet and tailgate. These can indicate that the car has been repaired after a shunt. Look for traces of spray paint on door handles, window seals and mouldings.

Check the engine bay: if it’s been power-washed clean, that may remove evidence of any fluid leaks. Make sure your test drive is lengthy, and check under the bonnet again for any evidence of leaks.

Don’t be put off by dirty seats and grubby carpets: After all, these can be cleaned. However stains on internal fabric head–linings (roof coverings) are impossible to remove completely. Check for damage underneath any fitted seat covers.

Seats can be expensive to replace.

Go on, haggle (jitete): many sellers will have allowed for bargaining when they set the price remember your budget?

Don’t be pressured into buying. There are always other vehicles out there. If it’s too good to be true, then be on your guard – bargains are few and far between. If a seller is selling cheap, ask yourself (and them) why. And be wary of ‘stories’ – change of job, break-up of relationship, moving abroad, new baby on the way.

Don’t be swayed by these influencing factors. You’re buying a car to help yourself, not anyone else.

Don’t hand over money until you’ve agreed collection or delivery: check exactly what’s included in the price include any work that the seller has agreed to do.

Make sure you get a receipt that details the vehicle, price, terms of sale and sellers details.

Walk away if you’re not completely happy.

USED CAR REVIEW

F

Used BMW 535i (2004) Review

by correspondent

ew cars in recent years have caused such rampant division of opinion as BMW’s current 5 Series. Few have many gripes about the way the car drives, the value proposition or the build quality but ask about the styling and you’ll get some colourful responses. Now that we’ve had some time to get used to it, the lines aren’t quite as shocking as they were when the Five first rolled into BMW dealers back in June 2003 and the introduction of the mellower looking Touring variant also helps. Get beyond the challenging styling and you have a car that retains BMW’s position as the best driver’s car in the executive class. Business as usual…

History People should really have girded themselves for the 5 Series given the unconventional styling of the 7 Series and then the Z4 roadster. Its predecessor had been a conservatively styled thing but had nevertheless found great favour. When Burkhard Goschel, BMW’s head of research and development proclaimed that “the days of lookalike BMWs are over… from now on each volume model will display its own unmistakable personality” it became apparent that radical styling was going to be an ongoing theme, a point rammed home by the subsequent 1 Series launch.

At the outset in June 2003, the 5 Series range consisted of the 520i, 525i, 530i and 545i petrol-engined saloons with a 530d diesel saloon also offered. A 525d entry-level diesel model was slipped into the range at the end of the year with the mighty 535d topping the diesel tree in autumn 2004. Touring models also made an appearance in 2004, the first of the five-door estates landing in late April. A fire-breathing 507bhp V10 engined M5 model was also unveiled in summer 2004 but wasn’t scheduled to go on sale until the following Spring. BMW’s innovative Active Steering system was slightly modified in autumn 2004 to offer a less radical feel. A whole suite of incremental trim improvements was announced for the 2005 model year car including a TV tuner which could accept digital as well as analogue signals, a wider palette of body colours, and more sophisticated in-car entertainment options.

In January 2005, new Valvetronic engine technology was introduced on 525i and 530i models and a 523i variant introduced

(also featuring it) to replace the 520i.

A major facelift at the start of 2007 saw power boosted on most models and economy improved with the aid of regenerative braking technology. The styling was also tweaked. At the front, the headlights and indicators became clear glass while the kidney grille sits flush with the bumper. The M5 Touring was introduced at the same time and a little later, the 520d model was boosted to 177bhp.

Opinion At first glance, the 5 Series seems to incorporate cues from both the Z4 and the 7 Series. The oddly proportioned bootlid is reminiscent of the 7 Series whilst the ‘flame surfaced’ flanks reflect the light in a similar way to the Z4. Whereas the 7 Series and the Z4 are relatively specialist items, the 5 Series represents a major cash cow for BMW and if the public don’t take to the styling, there will be major consequences. Although it doesn’t rest easily on the eye, we’ll probably grow used to it in due course.

Much of the focus has gone into developing innovative technology but at the same time keeping weight from creeping up. More space is coupled with a weight saving of up to 65kg, due in no small part to lightweight aluminium including much of the chassis and bodywork of the car and the suspension components. This focus on weight saving has resulted in some class leading performance and economy figures from a range of engines that is largely familiar fare.

Although the 5 Series does carry over some 7 Series styling cues, it’s clear that BMW have listened to customer feedback. The bootlid is less extreme and although the 5 Series features the contro26 July 2011

versial iDrive control system, it’s notably easier to use than the 7 Series system and is backed up by more conventional knobs and switches on the fascia. The fiddly electronic handbrake system used by its big brother has also been replaced, in this instance by a conventional manual one. The Touring estate is a more conventionallooking car but the unique 5-Series styling cues are always evident. The M5 will be out of most buyers’ reach but the Sport trim level offers some of the styling flair without the pricetag. You know the drill, wider air intakes, bigger wheels, sports suspension, flared side sills, it will prove a popular choice.

Cost Entry level for sixth generation 5 Series ownership is £17,000, which will land you an 03-plated 520i in SE trim. Automatics are very desirable and add a hefty £1,200 premium. Trade up to the 525i SE and prices begin at £17,700 with the punchy 530i opening proceedings at £19,000, again on the 03 plate. The mighty 545i will still command £25,500 for the earliest cars with the 530 diesel clinging onto a good percentage of its value at £21,400 for an 03 registered car.

Problems?

No significant faults have emerged thus far. As with any upscale executive car, it’s crucial to ensure that your choice has the right trim. Cars with bright paintwork in non metallic colours, the smallest wheel options and cloth seats aren’t going to be anything like as easy to sell on as a car in a decent metallic hue with leather and tastefully sized alloys. Check that the service record and mileage corresponds and that if your car is a high mileage ex-fleet vehicle, that the price has been adjusted corre-

USED CAR REVIEW

spondingly. Like all contemporary BMW models, the 5 Series has no fixed service intervals, the car’s diagnostics deciding when it needs to come in for a freshening, so ask the buyer questions about how the car has been run and get a feel for whether it’s been cherished or punished.

Parts (approx based on a 520i SE ) An air filter is around £15, whilst you’ll pay a similar amount for a fuel filter. Oil filters are around £6, whilst spark plugs are £17. A replacement cam belt is around £24.

Road Seven engines are available in the mainstream line up, the 170bhp 520i, the 192bhp 525i, the 231bhp 530i, the 333bhp 545i, the 177bhp 525 diesel, the 218bhp 530d diesel and the 272bhp 535d. All the petrol-powered units use BMW’s latest bi-VANOS valve actuation system that gives hefty torque low down and outright power at the top of the rev range. Even the entry-level 520i will sprint to 60mph in 8.8 seconds, hit a top speed of 143mph and yet return an average of 31.4mpg. Step up to the six-speed 530i and the sprint drops to 6.7 seconds, the top speed rises to 155mph but fuel economy doesn’t take too much of a hit, the 530i turning in a creditable 29.7mpg. The real

star of the show is the 530d. Despite coming within a whisker of the 530i’s sprint to 60 – the diesel car stops the watch at an amazing 6.9 seconds – it will still go on to 152mph and return 41mpg. It boats a torque figure of 500Nm (a Ferrari 360 Modena makes 372Nm) which means that it feels awesomely muscular when accelerating. As a contender for the world’s best car the 530d takes some beating but the latest 535d might hold the trump card for some, its 560Nm of torque and 6.6-second 0-60mph time are impressive but you do a premium for that extra oomph. That only leaves the mind-boggling M5 with its 507bhp V10 engine. Read the figures and weep in abject terror – 520Nm of torque, 0-62mph in 4.7s, 0-124mph in 15s and a derestricted 205mph top speed. That is some car.

Much thought has gone into the way electronic systems blend with good old manual ones. BMW have taken the notion that electronics should aid rather than replace manual systems and the active steering system is a good example.

Rather than developing the sort of pure ‘drive-by-wire’ systems that often isolate the driver from road feedback, BMW has instead developed a system that maintains a link between the front wheels and the steering wheel but which adjusts the power assistance dependent upon speed and yaw rate, promising quick turn-in when July 2011

27

you punch the 5 Series into a corner but without the accompanying nervousness at high speed that many such cars demonstrate. This system is networked to the Dynamic Stability Control system, reducing the interventions DSC has to make.

Dynamic Drive, BMW’s active suspension system is available as an option, and Active Cruise Control, a system that automatically controls distances to the car in front, is also available to order. BMW hasn’t left too many safety features out of the 5 Series. Brake Force Display is an interesting concept, enlarging the brake light area when the driver really anchors on. Another first for BMW is Adaptive Headlights – a feature many will associate more with Citroen. This system, sadly still an option, swivels the headlights by up to 15 degrees left and right to illuminate more of the road through a bend. Unlike Citroen’s rudimentary old mechanical system, this calculates speed, yaw rate and steering angle before steering the beams.

Another technology ‘borrowed’ from another manufacturer – in this case Chevrolet – is a Head-Up Display that projects information onto the windscreen. BMW has yet to offer this technology, but it is offered on the M5 and is sure to filter across the rest of the range.

Overall If you’re a fan of that angular styling, go right ahead and buy whatever model you can afford. There’s not a bad pick in the whole line up. If you’re not so struck on the looks of the 5 Series, buy one anyway and hope they grow on you. Little can touch the feel of a Five and despite the car being less overt in its appeal than the previous generation model, the used market has found that current owners value their cars highly with a relatively slow turnover in stock. Don’t expect any screaming bargains therefore, but if you can track down the right car at the right price, congratulations are in order. You’ve made an informed choice.

USED BIKE REVIEW

Grrr Baby, Very Grrr! A Beast

A

t long last, here’s the 2004 Yamaha R1, the third all-new bike in the highly anticipated 1000cc supersport class.

More recently, I got a chance to spend a day aboard Honda’s new CBR 1000RR and now the trifecta is complete with this review of the 2004 Yamaha R1.

The first R1 made its debut in 1998 and its styling raised the bar for Japanese sportbikes. Each revision since then has refined the look and this new one is undoubtedly the prettiest R1 yet. After seeing this bike in person and oogling the new metallic black and the two-tone silver paint jobs, I sincerely feel that Yamaha has displaced Ducati at the top of the sportbike styling heap. (Of course Ducati helped, when they replaced the gorgeous 916 family with the 999 series) Yamaha says the new R1 is: “Michelangelo meets Sir Isaac Newton”. I’d say: From the voluptuous upside-down swingarm,

by correspondent to the flowing intake snorkels, the 2004 R1 just oozes sex appeal.

Sure it looks great in pictures, but in person the new R1’s “Shift Red” paint scheme is absolutely stunning and trust me Kenyan Ladies love it. Turned heads everywhere.

Yamaha could have simply restyled last year’s excellent R1 and given us the new look without a full redesign, because most buyers couldn’t even get near the absolute performance limits of the original 1998 R1. However, Yamaha intends to do some serious racing with this new bike and not only are there looming 1000cc threats from Kawasaki and Honda, but last year’s GSX-R 1000 also had the old R1 covered from a pure performance standpoint. Wisely, Yamaha decided to go hole-hog for 2004 and the result is a bike that shares little more than an oil filter with the 2003 R1.

A comprehensive listing of the chang28 July 2011

es and revisions is included in Yamaha’s spec-chart at the end of this article. However, at the risk of being redundant, I’d like to breeze through a ..............

Man this job sucks! Why couldn’t I just push paper for a living? Yea right!

What could be more fun than driving around and writing bout it? Well back to the topic.

The 998cc engine is claimed to make 172Hp and 180Hp “at speed” (thanks to ram-air induction, a first for R1s). The engine is over 56mm narrower than last year’s motor, even though cylinder bores are now 3mm larger. This is mostly due to movement of the starter and charging systems to the back side of the cylinders, but also from a 23.7mm shorter crankshaft and a reduction in bore spacing, from 9mm to 5mm. The cylinders are now canted 40° forward from vertical (last years engine was 30°) this allows for even straighter intake ports and most importantly makes the engine shorter, so

USED BIKE REVIEW that the new “Deltabox” frame can route its spars over the engine (like the new ZX-10R’s frame) instead of around the sides, for a narrower midsection. That new frame is 200% stiffer in the vertical plane, 50% stiffer against side forces and 30% stiffer torsionally, it also has been reduced in width, from 464mm down to 395mm. A slightly narrower valve angle allows the compression to be bumped to 12.4:1 from last year’s 11.8:1 (be sure to use premium gas) which is a big help in boosting power. Reciprocating and rotating inertia has been reduced, via 3% lighter pistons and a 16% lighter crankshaft, which makes the engine quicker revving and gives it a more “lively” feel.

The lighter weight internals also help the engine to survive near its 14,000Rpm rev limiter.

The two-tone Liquid Silver/Cerulean Silver color scheme gets color-matched intake snorkles. Grrr Baby, Very Grrr! A Beast The new engine’s redline is an unbelievable 2,000Rpm higher, at 13,750

SPEC-SHEET

Yamaha R1 YZF ENGINE (2ltr tfsi/tdi & 3ltr) 998cc, liquid cooled, 4 - cylinders in line, 4-stroke

Valves DOHC, % valves per cylinder

TORQUE (EEC Nm) @rpm 104.9 Nm @ 8500 rpm

TRANSMISSION 6 speed

TOP SPEED (kph)

compared to last year’s 11,750Rpm redline. The fuel tank is fully 2” narrower than last year’s. Front brake rotors have stretched from 298 to 320mm but are now .5mm thinner, so they weigh the same as last year’s brakes. The front calipers now feature the de-rigueur radial mounting and the master cylinder has been changed to an excellent radial piston Brembo. Intake ports are straighter and 5% larger than last year’s. Exhaust gasses are vented through 5mm larger ports that are surrounded by an extra water jacket for improved cooling, then routed out through a catalyst equipped exhaust that’s (with the exception of the catalyst) 100% titanium from header to mufflers. The new steering damper is equipped with a mechanical ball checkvalve that floats out of the way during slow movement, but is forced to block an oil passage when the damper is moved quickly. This allows for lighter slow speed handling, but allows for the necessary resistance needed at high-frequencies (like headshake).

Who needs excuses, I know I’m sexy According to Yamaha, the new R1 has the same ground clearance as their M1 MotoGP bike (except for the foot pegs which would need to be changed for racing), thanks to the narrower engine and underseat exhausts.

Ergonomics are typical modern supersport and felt a little cramped at first, though I must confess to just getting over the flu and being somewhat stiff at the beginning of the ride. After I stretched a bit, I was perfectly happy and after a solid day of riding, I was still fresh and had no aches to complain about. The foot pegs have been moved down 7mm and forward 2.5mm from last year’s R1 and the clip-ons have been raised 10mm. When you couple this with a significantly narrower motorcycle, you end up with a roomier riding position. In addition to the new ergos, the new engine is quite smooth for an inline four and was noticeably less buzzy than the Honda CBR 1000RR. Well all that I can say this baby growls when you rave her and she really leans

320 Kph July 2011

29

Safety Award This year seems to be Volkswagen’s from a safety standpoint, as nearly all models in its line- up managed to impress the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS).

The German automaker has so far received the 2011 Top Safety Pick award for the Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Tiguan, Touareg, and 4-door Golf and GTI models.

Now, another one comes to join the pack, in the form of the Passat CC 20.L TSI. This means the car performed best in protecting passengers in the Institute’s front, side, and rear crash test evaluations, and the newly required roof-strength test evaluations.

Of course, another criteria that helped the CC bring Volkswagen the seventh Top Safety Pick award this year, was the fact that it is equipped with electronic stability control and head protection airbags.

“The performance of the CC is another example of Volkswagen’s enduring commitment to engineer vehicles that earn the highest IIHS ratings,” said Institute president Adrian Lund, in a statement for the press. “Volkswagen now has seven models on the list of vehicles that afford buyers state-of-the-art crash protection.”

“Volkswagen is passionate about safety,” said Tim Mahoney, Chief Product and Marketing Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “To have IIHS recognize a total of seven Volkswagen models with this significant award is a great statement for the brand. It’s a testament to our commitment to make safety such a high priority in vehicle development, using advanced techniques such as laser seam welding and the extensive use of high-strength steel to build exceptionally strong structures.”

TECH TOYS

by correspondent

K

TM has unleashed the most powerful X-Bow ever. The new R version will feature an Audi sourced engine from the S3, but while the engine delivers 265 HP in the S3, it has been tuned to provide 300 HP for the X-Bow R. The X-Bow R features a considerably lower positioning and a modified mounting of the engine that will lead to even higher cornering speeds and increased driving precision. If KTM receives enough interest, they will offer two road legal and homologated packages: a “Sport” version and a “Race” package, which is optimized for track use.

The packages each include a vast number of completely new developed parts, which increase the performance of the car dramatically. Many of these parts will be also available separately in the PowerParts program, so all current KTM X-BOW owners will enjoy the benefit of the new developments.

The KTM X-Bow R has made its debut

on the Red Bull Ring in the presence of national and international motorsports personalities. At the event, it showed exactly what it is capable of, giving the company a grand opportunity to provide some more images for us to ogle. KTM has revealed the secrets of its monstrous X-Bow. The X-Bow R has got all the beauty of a sports car with lowered position and a modified mounting of the engine which will offer the driver even higher cornering speeds along with augmented driving precision Each set of packages consist of a vast number of fully new developed parts.

These parts then dramatically enhance the performance of the car. Most of these parts will be available independently in the PowerParts program. So, all the present KTM X-BOW owners will receive advantage of the new developments.

Exterior and Interior: The car holds a carbon fiber racing monocoque with a 30 July 2011

crash box, individually adjustable pedals, adjustable and removable multi-functional steering wheel, painted rims, special paint work in the “R” design, 4-point safety belts, and smooth surface racing underbody that is available with a rear diffuser in aluminium composite.

Engine: 2.0 liter displacement increases the performance of this beautiful but aggressive car that delivers a total of 300 horsepower and 295 lbs-ft of torque.

Both the suspension on the rear axle and the push rod suspension on the front that comes directly from the Formula racing sport have been modified.

Prices: For the US, the KTM X-Bow has officially set with its pricing. The base “Street” model of the X-Bow is priced at $88,500. Besides, the “Clubsport” edition of the X-Bow costs $103,500 and the Superlight Edition at $134,000. There is one more on the list - the cream-of-thecrop GT4 Edition is also set at $139,000.

In Europe, the KTM X-Bow R is priced at $83,800 (as per the current exchange rate) that is 7.6mill KSH.

TECH TOYS

TechTec Reveals 450 HP BMW 1-Series M Coupe

3D design create the BMW Z4 Roadster

Hofele Design Unveils Touareg Royal GT 470

Some might say that the limited-edition BMW 1-Series M Coupe is a bit long in the name, but also one of the most amazing, highly tuned two-door sportscars on the market today. Others might say that it need more silly NFS-like graphics and 450 horsepower to make it more spicy.

German tuner TechTec (silly name, isn’t it?) has just revealed that it can offer a high-strung, track-focused version of the 1-Series M Coupe that offers an amazing 450 horsepower from the engine that everybody thought had nothing more to give.

If the prospect of more power than an Audi R8 in a chassis that used to share body parts with a hatchback scares you, than TechTec also offers a more moderate package for the 3.0-liter straight-six, which only provides 40 extra horsepower.

If you can actually get your hands on a 1-Series M Coupe, then it could potentially satisfy you with a total of 380 hp and 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque for just €1,500 extra.

If you are prepared to fork over €2,500, TechTec will make that output a respectable 400 hp. If your bank account has an extra €800 over that, the tuner will go all the way with you, providing the full 450 hp and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft). TechTec says this is enough for a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of just 4.1 seconds.

Doesn’t taking a very potent car, and adding stickers and a lot more power, sound a bit like something you would do in a video game? If it doesn’t yet, let us add that a KW club sport suspension as well as a titanium exhaust are also available.

Ever since it was launched, the BMW Z4 Roadster received a great deal of attention from the tuning world, as it was expected to happen with a Bavarian creation. But the German open-top sportscar has never been used to represent a positive philosophy... so far.

This latest creation comes 3D Design, who were inspired by the reactions following the Japan’s natural disasters earlier this year.

According to the specialists at 3D Design, they all shared a common theme: “let’s not dwell on the bad, but plan for the good. Let’s move forward, rebuild, and enjoy life”.

Plans to create the car that would reflect that positive attitude and thinking came shortly after the tsunami, aiming at making a statement, which now stands written on the car’s driver’s side window: “Don’t give up, Tohoku”.

A number of Japanese and US tuning companies Japanese and US tuning companies helped create the adjacent E89 BMW Z4 tuning package for North America: the overall design theme was worked on by WSTO and IND with 18” wheels from BBS inspired by the M3 GT4 program and wrapped in Yokohama tires, size 235/40/18 (front) and 255/35/18 (rear).

3D Design’s own aggressive, full carbon fiber aerodynamic package is used to transform the exterior of the car. Performance wise, the kit includes an upgraded turbo kit from ESS, a KW variant suspension system, and a handbuilt exhaust system from Eisenmann. Other features include a Dinan camber plate, an upgraded brake package from Brembo, and a gauge package from Stack.

Specialist tuning company Hofele Design has just unveiled an extensive program for the second-generation Touareg, including radical cosmetic changes and performance mods.

On the outside of the new Touareg, an aero body kit has been created and fitted.

At the front, it includes a front apron with integrated LEDs on both corners. The changes to the grille and hood make the SUV almost unrecognizable, while also providing a muscular, sporty look. Both sets of wheelarches have been extended and match the bigger side skirts. Speaking of the arches, they have been filled to the brim with massive multi-spoke alloys that can be specified in sizes between 20 and 21 inches.

Customers can also order an electric lowering module, which reduces the ride height by 40mm when parked or traveling at speeds of under 80 km/h, or 50 mph. At the rear, a massive diffuser has been fitted and the bumper houses a choice of two kinds of quad exhaust - one using round and the other oval end pipes.

The interior is just as extensively modified, with two-tone black and white leather upholstery making its presence felt on the seats, door panels and arm rests, plus aluminum trim accents.

Under the radical bonnet of the Royal GT 470 sits VW’s diesel V6 engine, that has been extensively modified using a performance kit which lifts output from 240HP and 500Nm to 275HP and 580Nm of peak torque. Thanks to the boost in power, the Touareg can now accelerate from 0 to 100km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 229 km/h (142 mph).

July 2011

31

VW

32 July 2011

HOT RIDES a y n Country Challenge Ke

Well if you missed this show here is a taste of some of the highligts... by correspondent

July 2011

33

UPCOMING EVENTS

Photos courtesy of Pixel Creations Photography

gun it was just awesome! Auto Art came in style. Just imagine this babies on the highway, i can bet you they turned heads on the highway. I also loved the entrance by the chopper from MotoAdv, and when Unity Garage made their entrance with their Toyota Supra.

O

Photo: Toyota Mark 2

n the 11th of june 2011 , the Westgate auto show, Kenya’s largest indoor motor show took place at the Westgate shopping mall rooftop.

The one day event was aimed at creating a showroom of rare yet powerful performance cars in Kenya. It was the third event coming after two other similar shows that were held last year.

This year’s event was a huge success and was expected to be bigger than the previous ones. Participants really went out of their way to showcase the best of their products. Among the participants were Auto Art Garage, Unity Garage, MotoAdv (with their bikes) and Simon Sharp Services with their Wild Cat.

Which among the cars did you love?

Mike: Well that’s tricky. They all looked great. I was impressed by the Supra(Monster), Skyline R34(Godzilla and Mines), Skyline R33 and the Evo’s and Subarus from Auto Art. From Unity, the Toyota Celica converted to look like a Supra was just great! and the Nitrous and the anti lag was a sight to be remembered.

What do think should be considered next time while planing the show?

We would love to see this beasts at work, maybe even see them racing. This would even reduce the number of races that happen every weekend at night at Uhuru Highway. Also they should promote this car show, actually i was informed by a friend and had to leave another event. Couldn’t miss this!

All in all we had a great time.

During the event Motor Trader was privileged to have a one on one interview with one of the attendants Mike Maina. Here is an excerpt of the interview: How was the show?

Mike: This was the best motor show i’ve attended in Kenya. It wasn’t for any Tom, Dick and Harry to come and show off a Spacio. this was art, this guys actually use a lot of money to make this cars what they are. I actually saw cars that i only see in movies, i just had a great time..... Hope it happens again soon.

What was the best part of the show?

Mike: when the whole thing be-

Photo: Toyota Supra convert from Unity Garage 34 July 2011

UPCOMING EVENTS

Photo: Toyota Supra (Monster)

Photo: Nissan Skyline R34 (Mines)

Photo: Nissan Skyline R33

Photo: Nissan 350Z

Photo: Nissan Skyline R34 (Godzilla)

Photo: Subaru STI

Photo: Subaru STI

Photo: BMW 318i

Photo: Evolution 9

Photo: Evolution 9

Photo: Evolution 8

Photo: Evolution 6 Tommi Edition

July 2011

35

UPCOMING EVENTS

36 July 2011

UPCOMING EVENTS

PRESIDENT KIBAKI PLEDGES CONTINUAL AS EXCITEMENT GRIPS KCB SAFARI FLAGOFF

T

he Government will continue assisting Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) in its endeavors to help Safari Rally regain its lost world status.

Speaking during the Official Flag Off ceremony of the 59th KCB Safari Rally 2011, President Mwai KIbaki also said that the Government will continue investing more resources in strengthening the sports industry through provision of relevant sports equipment and infrastructure.

“In order for us to succeed in strengthening motor sports in the country, I call upon the Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) to ensure motorsports are developed to international standards. We must, in particular, strive to meet all the conditions set by the International Federation of Automobiles (FIA) so as to stand a better chance regaining the World Status. This achievement will raise the profile of the KCB Safari Rally and also attract the World top drivers to compete in the event every year,” said Kibaki.

Kibaki’s sentiments come in the wake of plans to run the 2013 Safari Rally as a candidate event for the World Rally Championship (WRC).

The Safari Rally was until 2002 a round of the WRC, when FIA stuck it off its 16-legged calendar and when the global body felt that the necessary conditions had not been met by Kenyan organizers.

KIbaki thanked the KMSF and title sponsors KCB for making the event a success; adding that the Safari has given Kenya plenty of exposure to the world through television coverage which is watched by millions of sports fans around the world.

Photo: President Kibaki flags off at the KICC during the KCB Safari Rally.

“And above all,” the President concluded, “I thank the Rally Drivers, Car Manufacturers and crews who came year after year to participate in this truly challenging event.”

KMSF Chairman Jim Kahumbura sounded enthusiastic of the President’s speech saying that the 2011 and 2012 editions of the Safari would be used as a dress rehearsal for the 2013 candidature.

Meanwhile drivers exuded confidence as the Safari revved off. Zimbabwean Conrad Rautenbach staunchly admitted he was a bit under pressure and a somewhat worried on how his Green Fuel Ford Fiesta S2000 Fiesta would perform here especially on rough sections.

The Zimbabwean, who leads the African Rally Championship (ARC), said he is going to take it a little easier.

“I know your top five guys will be good to gauge my pace. But it is great to be here. Rallying is big here and I hope it continues to get better,” Conrad, who won the Safari Rally in 2007 said.

His French Navigator Nicolas Klinger remained enthusiastic of his Safari debut just a week after they retired from the Gauteng Rally of South Africa.

“I’m very excited to compete here for the first time. Obviously this is one of the best rallies in the world just like July 2011

37

the prestigious Monte Carlo and Rally of Sweden. Our car is specially designed for European rallies; so we still hope to come out of each stage unscathed,” commented Klinger, who met Conrad when the Zimbabwean raced for Criterion in the WRC. Christakis Fitidis from Rwanda was all smiles. Said he: “Last year it was mud now is rocks. So it makes no difference and this is the beauty of the Safari. I am doing the Africa championship this year hoping to secure some good results.

Madagascar promises to be a bit tough, Tanzania is smooth and the Safari is the real taste of endurance.”

Baldev Chager was bubbling with confidence when he set off on his new Subaru Impreza N16 car from Europe.

“It took me at last six months to get this car here and I got in at 11.30pm last night (Thursday). I don’t know the car, so every section of the rally will be a testing ground. The car came originally from Norway and is very competitive.”

Phinieas Kimathi said the Safari is always enjoyable and unpredictable. “Our car has been re-set by Prodive engineers to withstand the route which is a mix of smooth and rough.

MOTORSPORT

38 July 2011

MOTORSPORT Photo: Mangat hoists the Lochab Memorial Trophy for the best Sikh driver Tundo third from left and Ian Duncan second from right

One on one with Carl Tundo

H

ow does it feel to complete a hat-trick victories?

It has not quite sunk in but I feel very happy and proud of this achievement.

your Dalbit Alastair seems to always suffer!!

(Laughs) And visaversa - not sure! I think when one of us drops out the other takes up the challenge for Dalbit.

Take me through your Safari campaign stage by stage?

I think going into the first stage on Saturday we (top Kenyan drivers) all subconsciously wanted to put on a good show and not get embarrassed by Conrad and his Fiesta. The plan was to push on the first stage and see where we stood against him. We had a plan that if he was a long way ahead we would concentrate on the KNRC and points. When we realized we had convincingly beaten him on this stage the plan changed. The next two sections we pushed again and took more time out of the field. The last two sections on Saturday, while we did push, we were a bit more cautious so as not to damage the car too much. By the start of Sunday we had a 5.45minites cushion so we backed off completely and nursed the car home making sure we made no mistakes. The only thing we changed on the car on Sunday was the rear suspension which blew going into the first stage on sunday

What are your predictions on the KNRC title chase with Alastair and Baldev Chager at pains to perform, Ian Duncan at the top and yourself back in contention?

Happy to be back in contention - and will fight Ian all the way for it.

Did you feel intimidated by Conrad after Jamhuri spectator stage?

We all knew he was going to be quick but didn’t know how the car would fair on the open roads - I was slightly intimidated by his time on the special stage but knew the Safari was long and not won on the spectator stage.

How comes when you are doing well

Do u think the likes of Jas Mangat and Horsey siblings would eventually be spoilers?

They may do - Jas definitely, he is becoming more consistent and his pace is fantastic which is great to see. My prediction is he will definitely win a rally before the end of the season.

When did the idea to race crossed ur mind?

Rallying has been in my blood since birth - from following Dad around the Safari rally - I have always wanted to rally ever since I can remember.

What sort of motor driven machine did you first drive in your young age?

My brother and I started on motorbikes on the farm - Dad made a Jeep with a roll cage from an old Suzuki which we used around the farm in Maralal.

In which farm did you first hone your skills?

We grew up in the Karisia Hills above Maralal where there was loads of space to July 2011

39

BY SAMSON ATEKA

drive around in.

Who inspired you?

My father definitely - plus the Safari rally when it was part of the WRC. Where did you meet Tim? Tim and I became friends when I lived in Mombasa about 15 years ago, although I knew him and his family for longer.

What other pastime do you engage in?

Golf - started playing about 6 years ago and love it - it is another sport that you can do socially with friends. I play a bit of social cricket. I like to travel when I can.

Where else do the members of Dalbit get to meet together to have fun?

If it’s not on the golf course - It’s mainly in a bar discussing team tactics You seem to succeed in most of the things you partake in. What’s the secret behind ur success?

There is no secret - just to do what you do to 100% the best of your ability.

How does it feel to have your parents involved in many aspects of your rallying participation!

It is one of the most important parts of my rallying. I am lucky to have a father who has the experience to help and a mother that understands the sport and both want to help as much as possible. It is fantastic having them there.

MOTORSPORT

Photo: Aslam Khan’s new Porsche

Baptism of Fire

W

hat better way to test your new rally car that to enter a rally ?

On 18th of June, that is exactly what experienced Kenyan rally driver Aslam Khan did with his new Porsche 911. The car is entered in the Kenya Airways East African Safari Classic Rally in November but, with it newly arrived in Africa, the chance to try it out on the modern Safari Rally Kenya held in Kajiado was not to be missed.

“The car is amazing and has so much more power and handling than the Ford Escort that I drove on the Safari Classic in 2009” said Aslam.

The Porsche is prepared by Tuthill Porsche from the UK and it incorporates all the latest specification of components that will be used by the whole Tuthill team of Porsche 911s on the 2011 event in November.

On the Safari Rally at the weekend, Aslam was leading the Supplementary class when he lost control of the car and it gently rolled over. To his consternation, the car then had a small fire, but the crew managed to extinguish it before too much damage was done. Entries for the Kenya Airways Safari Classic continue to pour in with new ones from Safari regular, Nick Mason in a Datsun 260Z and also from a newcomer, Kurt Engelhorn, from Germany in a Ford Escort Mark 1.

Also, there is one more entry from Tanzania as Safari veteran, Jayant Shah, navigated by a former Safari-winning codriver, Lofty Drews, have also confirmed

Ken Block Confirmed to Test Pirelli F1 Car at Monza

BY SAMSON ATEKA they entry in a Datsun 260Z. The entry list now stands at forty-six cars and the organizers are expecting at least seven more entries to come by the closing date of entries, which is October 15th, 2011.

Meanwhile, Travis Pastrana is excited to debut his new 2011 WRX STi that he will be racing at this year’s X Games RallyCross competition. This will mark his fifth time competing in the Rally series at X Games.

Pastrana has already set two world records in his Subaru WRX STi, attained four Rally America Series Championships (’06-’09) and is looking to win his third Rally Gold this summer at X Games 17 in Los Angeles. In addition to X Games, Pastrana will participate in the East African Safari Rally later this year in support of www.race4change. com.

There is no better way to launch new rally car livery than spoofing the king of viral videos, Ken Block. After Block dished it out in his Gymkhana Grid video by calling out Travis for “forgetting how to turn right”, it is Pastrana’s turn for some friendly revenge.“Ken is a master at marketing and punked me pretty well late last year.

When the opportunity to spoof one of his ever successful viral videos arose, I jumped at the chance! My only fear is that I may have started something here!” said the ever energetic Pastrana.

40 July 2011

In a move set to test the company’s P Zero tires, Pirelli has recently made an official statement announcing that ‘Gymkhana’ legend and World Rally Championship star Ken Block will drive the Pirelli F1 test car on August 5th at the Monza circuit. The Pirelli F1 test car has been used by the Italian company since its Formula One programme was announced in June 2010.

Before the test car is taken to Monza by Block, it will complete two days of testing in the hands of Pirelli test driver Lucas di Grassi from Brazil. Di Grassi will also be present to give Block some tips and advice as he makes his Formula One debut.

Block is set to use Pirelli’s softer compounds, namely the PZero Red (supersoft) and PZero Yellow (soft) – that reach their operating temperature of around 100 degrees centigrade in less than two laps.

Later on in the test, he should get the chance to try out the two harder compounds: PZero White (medium) and PZero Silver (hard). These tires have a little less performance than the softer ones, but increased durability and resistance to high temperatures.

“I’ve been lucky enough to do some pretty spectacular stunts in my career so far, but this is something else! Everybody talks about Formula One being the pinnacle of world motorsport so I can’t wait to discover it for myself. I’m very grateful to Pirelli, which has been one of my partners since 2010, for this amazing opportunity. These cars are so specialised that I need to be realistic about what I can do, but I know that it’s going to be a lot of fun and take hooning to a whole new level...”

Block said.

MOTORSPORT

Photo: Quentin(left) and Chris

YOUNGSTER QUENTIN MITCHELL STAMPS HIS AUTHORITY ON THE SAFARI WITH A STAGE WIN

BY SAMSON ATEKA

T

he 59th running of the Safari Rally last weekend saw Kenyan youngster, Quentin Mitchell return to the rallying scene in his Prodrive built Subaru Impreza with navigator Tim Challen sitting alongside him.

The duo last shared the cockpit in 2009 when they rallied an aging Mitsubishi Evo 8. Friday’s spectator special stage at Jamhuri Park allowed Quentin to demonstrate a flamboyant driving style that we don’t often see from the youngster as he is normally regarded as a fairly neat driver.

The youngster approached the stage with what he terms as a bit of a “wahoo style” in order to please the spectators – “that’s why they are there after all.”Saturday morning would be a difficult morning for the crew when they broke a wheel in the opening stage and had to limp to the first service. Stage 3 saw a

clean run for the pair where they stayed out of trouble but disaster would strike again when they punctured approaching a jump and landed on the rear differential cracking the housing and damaging the propshaft.

The pair had to nurse the car round the final stages of the day with a terrible vibration coming through the whole car due to the damaged propshaft. “Stage six was a very tough stage as it was like the rhino charge in places.

The end of the stage was also very tricky as some graders had come through there between recce and the rally so we had to back off for fear of hitting any unseen cautions.” Day three would begin very well for the pairing as they won the opening stage by a convincing margin allowing Quentin to stamp his authority in the Safari’s hall of fame as a stage winner.

July 2011

41

“This was great for us as it is our first stage win on home soil, and now our third stage victory in the Africa Championship so we are really happy with our performance. It means that the pace is there even with the very little experience I have in rallying – this was only my 17th rally.

Now what we need is more seat time in the car and the only way we will be able to achieve that is by landing a sponsorship deal so we hope to get some support in the future in order to stay in the rallying circuit.” The Crew finished a very credible seventh overall not far off Zimbabwe’s Conrad Rautenbach who is currently leading the Africa Championship.

The youngster is currently uncertain when he will be able to make his next appearance but hopes that it will be before the end of the year.

MOTORSPORT

42 July 2011

MOTORSPORT

Mutuma Marimba: From Rally fan to navigator

B

BY SAMSON ATEKA

eing the sole top 10 black indigenous competitor at the recent 59th KCB Safari Rally, Mutuma Marimba talked to Motor Trader of his fairy tale experience.

WHEN DID U START SPECTATING AND CHASING RALLY CARS? It all started in 2007 when I joined friends what had been my childhood dream.

WHO INSPIRED YOU TO TAKE UP RALLYING? Patrick Njiru and Ian Duncan. I have always loved rallying from when I was four years old. That was way back in 1988 during the Malboro Safari Rally. I remember seeing guys like Bjorn Waldergard, Juha Kankunenn, Marko Brighetti, The flying Sausage and It was really fantastic fun.

WHO HAS BEEN YO UR MENTOR? First and foremost Abdul Sidi, and Ben Muchemi who beat all odds to prove to the rest of us no mater your condition you can achieve your goals. It was really amazing to see him bounce back from cancer to the bucket seat of his N10 Subaru. I am among those who came through the Abdul Sidi Rally Academy ranks.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE SO FAR? Getting a rally car to compete with as well as sponsorship. Also getting racing gear like fireproof suits, inner wears and Helmets which are really expensive; so you really have to hustle around.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST SECURE YOUR FISRST DRIVE?

Last year with Ben Muchemi. But I met Johnston Langat last year through my friend Lorraine who works with him at KTN. My friend introduced me to him as a trainee rally navigator and we bonded well, started working on proposals for sponsorship, but when we thought a drive was almost forthcoming nothing materialized unfortunately.

But we are still hoping we are going to get a drive together. Langat is also planning on acquiring a car, but if not we will borrow the one he used during the safari rally from Ben “Baba Ciru” Muchemi.

HOW WAS IT LIKE TO NAVIGATE “BABA CIRU” Hmmm Baba Chiru, well at first it a was pleasant surprise when Abdul called me three days before the KMSC Rally and asked me to call Ben. I did call him and we met. Before long, we went for recce and did the rally on Sunday.

This was a dream come true because I have always aspired to race but never in my wildest of dreams did I ever imagined I would sit in the fastest office ever! The experience was awesome. Am a speed kind of person and to me I was having fun being driven at such high speeds. My partnership with Ben also made me understand that it takes great courage and trust to sit in a rally car with your driver and trust him to get you home safe and vice versa for you to navigate him home.

I enjoyed the stage but my best was the longest because of the multiple jumps and corners.

I remember there was an instance when we did a jump, and I asked Ben if we were still airborne. The greatest part is (Samuel) Nyakondo got that photo when we were airborne. I was really flabbergasted when I emerged from the cockpit July 2011

43

that we had recorded the second fastest time in stage 1, trailing Alastair by a few seconds. I also had a drive with Mombasa based Naveed Khalid and Sudesh Hirani in Eldoret which was quite a good experience.

WHAT’S YOUR PROFESSION? I am an IT Specialist who is all rounded in many aspects. I work as an ICT officer at Fedha Management Ltd. WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT A.S.R.A’s contribution to KENYAN Motorsport?

Thanks to ASRA that I have realized my childhood dreams. Thanks Abdul, Azar, Charles Hinga, Frank, San Valencia, Mike Mwangi and my fellow Students at ASRA. HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING TO SECURE A FULL DRIVE IN THE SEASON? Well, if we get a car/driver and sponsors willing to take us through the whole season, that will be merrier.

But I know that God grants us our hearts desire. I have faith and I know he will open up ways for me. I don’t know how but i know He will.

WHAT WAS THE FEELING LIKE BEING THE ONLY AFRICAN ON TOP 10?

I have know Imran from last year as his fan. So when I was buying rally stuff from him I got this chance to sit with him through Charles Hinga. , We paired with Imran and yeah, we finished 10th in the Safari which was a dream come true. I was the only native black competitor on top 10 and it was really great.

MOTORSPORT

Uganda’s Jagjit Singh triumphs in the 2WD category

BY SAMSON ATEKA

T

he event which took place along Kajiado saw category champions crowned in dramatic fashion Uganda’s Jagjit Singh came to Kenya, saw and conquered. Jasgit, who lived in Kenya, before relocating to Kampala cruised to victory in the 2WD category in a time of 2.12.18. Driving a VW Golf Gti and navigated by Kenyan Pinal Patel, Jasgit produced a spirited charge on Sunday to snatch the lead from Saturdays surprise overnight leader Patrick Kibaara and win by a slender margin of 7secs.

Navigated by Nehreen Ismael, one of the only two ladies to finish in the 59th Safari Rally, Patrick drove his rear-wheel drive Toyota Levin home in a time of 2.12.25 to bag his first ever podium finish.

For Patrick, the podium couldn’t have come at a more opportune time.

I am really happy with our results. We lost an outright win by just 7 secs but second overall is good for us. This has boosted our morale and we are now looking forward to the rest of the season. Said Patrick.

Completing the podium trio was Abdul Dubai Racing team pilot Niaz Bashir in a Toyota Celica. Niaz is fast growing to be a formidable force to reckon with after making two podium appearances in four outings. Partnering with Jonathan Kosgei they posted a time 2min15secs off the leader.

Joe Muchiri in finished fourth after mechanical gremlins plagued him through most of the rally but the Toyota Levin driver expressed his relief to have finished.

Our gear box broke on Thursday morning as I was heading to KICC for scruteneering and I had to run like a maniac trying to get another box in time. I managed to sort that but since problems have been cropping out here and there Riyaz Ismael, Joe’s co-pilot, made his-

tory for as the first brother and sister to compete in a Safari Rally event. Riyaz is Nehreen Ismaels elder brother.

Adnan Suhail, one of the class favorites, dreams of a strong finish evaporated on day one after he rolled on the third stage and lost over 25 mins. No one was injured during the incident.

I think I came to first over a brow that went into a triple caution and lost it, explained Adnan.

But Adnan rose from the predicament by winning all of Sunday stages in an attempt to claw his way back to the top but only managed a 7th overall finish. Suffering the same fate was the Haraka mamas consisting of Tamara Jones and Joan Nesbit. The all ladies crew rolled on the third section but were unable to resume action.

The spectators are saying we were moving very fast. We were about to take a bridge and I slightly tapped the brakes, we swayed, hit the bank and the car flipped. Said Tamara who drives a Toyota Tercel Rsi. Munir Khan and Tauseef Khan who came to Safari highly motivated after Cyn Energy extended their sponsorship fell out of contention on day 1 despite setting a fastest stage on CS3 with their VW Golf.

We were doing good. We went into service, fuelled the car out of service and everything was ok. We then left for Isinya for the overnight perc femme but about 2.5km to there the car just died. When we checked everything was ok from oil, fuel pump, water. All gauges read ok. We just couldn’t figure it out. I feel very bad. said a dejected Munir.

2010 2WD champion Leornardo Varesse/ Kigondu Kareithi retired after the engine of their VW Golf knocked.

Leo has not raced since last year’s Guru Nanak Rally and had pointed out that Safari Rally was his only goal for this season.

Having lost out on points in the Safari, 44 July 2011

Leo cannot defend the title this year.

The trophy for the most entertaining driver unarguably goes to new comer Nicholas Patel. The Thika based driver entered in a Mercedes Benz E190. With most fans putting their money on his retirement, Nicholas went against all odds to finish sixth.

I built and entered this car just for fun and to show people that Safari is not about how much money you have or how fast you can drive but also Safari should be about having fun. I think we had the most fun. Our car is really standard and we did the event on standard shocks so we haven’t spent a fortune to rally. All in all my navigator (Andy Mcdonall) and I are really pleased with what we have been able to achieve. Said Nick who also jokingly added that his car also offers Taxi services should anyone need to go anywhere in style!

Provisional Results 1. Jagjit Singh/ Pinal Patel –Uganda(VW Golf)- 2.12.18 2. Patrick Kibaara/ Nehreen Ismail – Kenya-2.12.25 3. Niaz Bashir/ Jonathan Kosgei- KenyaToyota Celica-2.14.43 4. Joel Muchiri/ Riyaz Ismael- KenyaToyota Levin- 2.22.24 5. Naveed Khalid/ Adnan Din- KenyaToyota Levin- 2.24.19 6. Nick Patel/ Andy McDononall- Kenya- Mercedes Benz 2.31.57 7. Adnan Suhail/ Absalom Aswani- Kenya- Daihatsu Charade2.32.40 8. Dennis Mwenda/ Shakil Umar- KenyaVW Golf-2.47.02 9. James Kirimi/ Kiremi Korir- KenyaVW Golf-2.54.17 10. Rashid Kabi/ Eric Nzuva- KenyaPeugeot 206- 2.55.49 11. Gideon Kimani/ Laban Cliff- KenyaToyota Levin- 3.00.22

MOTORSPORT

Hyundai Blue Link

Coast youngster show potential in Safari

B

eing the youngest driver from Coast and the only formula two representative from region, Naveed Khalid drove quite impressively in the 59th KCB Safari Rally.

Naveed navigated by Adnan Din would actually win outright on his debut Safari if it weren’t for the huge 11 minutes penalty he incurred in his spirited attack and with the manifold gremlins he had to contend with.

“Standards have been set and only the sky is the limit,” said Naveed who at 20 years is setting some good times on his 2WD campaign. Naveed was however left to rue his mechanical gremlins knowing that he had the grit and pace as well as victory in sight.

In competitive section 3, Naveed blew rear shock of his “Waka Waka” Toyota Levin.

Coming into CS 4 he picked up a puncture and lost time trying to fix the mess but managed to finish.

“It cost me more than ten minutes,” said Naveed who thanked Farhaan Khan “Don” of Eagle Motorsport, Nanak Engineering of Mombasa, Coast Brakes and Clutch Mombasa for enabling him partake the Safari.

Naveed came to the limelight when he won the 2WD class of the 2010 Tanga Rally in Tanzania last year as well as setting the fastest time at Voi KCB Rally.

“My benchmark was to win the Safari and I was really psyched up,” quipped Naveed.

Naveed’s navigator Adnan Din was enthusiastic of his association with the

youngster Naveed who recently impressed at the Coast MMC Rally in Ramisi.

“We enjoyed the Safari together. We had some bad luck with a burst shock and a tyre burst but we managed to soldier on and finish 5th overall in the 2WD. Naveed is really good on his driving lines, very talented I must admit. He listened to my notes and I’m very happy with his performance. His car is standard compared to the others in his category so a 5th position is actually very good. He is a future champion for sure,” said Adnan.

Adnan and Naveed enjoyed excellent driving at the spectator stage at Jamhuri.

“The atmosphere was amazing at Jamhuri with some very deadly jumps to clear ,” continued Adnan, adding: “We enjoyed every second of it.”

“This was Safari. We just had to keep the car in one piece and not break anything. So we were fully focused on that day. On Leg 1B on Saturday, we had 3 stages. We were doing really well on the first two stages; setting good times but on the third stages the rear shock burst and we also had a puncture. That dipped us down to 7th. On day 3, we had only 2 stages. We went on an all out attack, recovered two positions to finish 5th.

But then the car is a bit under-poweredso we had to drive to the limit to keep up the leader board. If we didn’t have a puncture, I could see a podium finish for us, but that’s safari,” continued Adnan.

July 2011

45

Hyundai’s newly developed telematics platform that will offer more than 30 unique connectivity features on the company’s future models now has a price tag.

2012 Sonata this summer and the Veloster 3-door coupe this fall. The automaker released annual subscription pricing for its three Blue Link packages: Assurance, Essentials, and Guidance.

As part of the Blue Link launch, Hyundai will provide Blue Link features free of charge for a complimentary period.

This trial period includes 6 months of the core safety services from “Assurance”, three months of the convenience features from “Essentials” and three months of the point of interest search and navigation tools from “Guidance.”

If the customer elects for automatic renewal within 30 days of purchase, the complimentary period will be doubled for each of the packages; one year of “Assurance” and 6 months of both “Essentials and Guidance.” After the introductory period, owners of Blue Link-equipped vehicles can choose to extend their services.

“Blue Link combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package that works to both help simplify Hyundai owners’ lives and reduce distracted driving,” said Barry Ratzlaff, director of customer satisfaction and service business development, Hyundai Motor America.

“We’ve carefully studied how drivers rely on smart phones and navigation systems as an innovative link to the outside world.

Blue Link brings that seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like voice text messaging, POI web search download, turn-by-turn navigation, and monthly vehicle reporting.”

MOTORSPORT

Photo: Horsey(left) and Conrad

CONRAD RAUTENBACH TAKES OVERNIGHT LEAD

A

fter a four-year absence, Zimbabwean Conrad Rautenbach returned to the 59th KCB Safari Rally with

a bang.

Driving an elegant Green Fuel Ford Fiesta 2000 machine, Rautenbach looks set to awaken the Kenyan brigade in the main class after he outran them at the hairy 2.22km spectator stage at Jamhuri Park in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 10,000 spectators.

The 2007 FIA African Rally Champion posted 1 minute 51 seconds to open a three seconds lead at the KICC overnight halt.

But in victory, the 2007 Safari champion had a different story to tell: “Every corner was twisty and the car’s transmission system was affected.”

“It is one hell of a rally. Tomorrow I have to be cautious,” added Rautenbach who airlifted his S2000 car to Nairobi following his exit in the South Africa based Gauteng Rally last weekend.

Rautenbach and all other drivers took “triple” caution from Charles Hinga’s gremlins after the 2008 2WD Safari winner took a heavy jump over

the bridge in full speed, soaring in the air for several seconds before landing badly and breaking the steering of the Oil Lybia-sponsored Mitsubishi Lancer EVO7.

Hinga and Phineas Kimathi in a Valencia Inn Mombasa-entered car were the first off the action ramp. On his part, Kimathi said he could not set the Launch Control at the beginning.

Hinga was downcast. “I have never taken this kind of jump in full speed and we decided to upgrade to absolute maximum speed. We have to fix this problem.”

He said.

“For seconds we were quite leaving our fate to God,” said navigator Norris Ongalo.

Kenya national champion Alistair Cavenagh had a similar scare and waltzed into service very worried. His Mitsubishi Evo 9 was leaking water and oil from the clutch. This aside, he finished a credible joint fourth with Baldev Chager and Alex Horsey.

“I don’t know what happened. We had landed heavily and saw water vapor coming from the bonnet,” said Carvenagh who is spoting the Dalbit Petroleum livery.

46 July 2011

Veteran Ian Duncan produced his usual flair to finish jointly second with Madagascan Jean Yves Ranarivelo in the National Oil Mitsubishi Evo 9 clocking 1.54minutes. “I was last here in a World Rally Car in 1999 Safari and so I was cautious of the route but there is still no much difference.

Alex Horsey threatened to headline the Safari after returning joint fourth. In Eldoret last month, Alex drove the first ever EVoX on Kenyan soil; a very fast car which his young brother Peter drove in selected events in the World Rally Championship last year.

“This car is amazing. I am looking forward to tomorrow otherwise it has set our Safari mood,” said Horsey whose car is technically at par with the Fiesta. “I am also looking forward to a good duel with the rest.”

Carl “Flash” Tundo was a contended man. He was happy with the good spectator turnout and said endurance starts tomorrow. He finished Jointly seventh with Jas Mangat in 1:56 seconds.

Baldev Chager finally drove the Subaru N15 which he has been waiting for its arrival from Norway for the last

MOTORSPORT

PROVISIONAL LEG1 (JAMHURI PARK) RESULTS 1. Conrad Rautenbach –ZIM (Ford Fiesta 2000) 1.51minutes 2. Ian Duncan -KEN (EVO9) 1.54 2. Jean Yves Ranarivelo –MAD (Subaru) 154 4. Alastair Cavenagh (EVO9) 1.55 4. Baldev Chager –KEN (Subaru N15) 1.55 4. Alex Horsey-KEN (EVOX) 155 7. Carl Tundo-KEN (EVO9) 1.56 7. Jas Mangat –KEN (Subaru N12) 9. Peter Horsey –KEN (EVO) 1.57 9. Hardeep Rehsi-KEN (EVO9) 1.57 11. Azar Anwar –KEN (EVO8) 1.59 13. Raaji Bharij –KEN (Subaru N10) 1.59 seven months. “I have not tested this car which has never raced on gravel.

We need to reset the suspensions and I did not give the stage 100 percent concentration because I had not slept on Thursday night as I was waiting for the car to arrive from Mombasa. I just need to go home and sleep,” said Baldy.

Former two times Safari champion Azar Anwar, 57, complained that his EVO8 was misfiring and lacked consistent power.

For reigning African champion Jamie Whyte, it was a near miss after his car stalled before entering holding point gate due to an electric misfire. He worked fast and in time to start. “It was fine but tomorrow is a long day. I also hope I can win the Safari after coming too close in the past.

KTN Journalists Johnson Langat and Robert Soi suffered a road accident mishap near Nakumatt Junction after their Subaru was hit by a military Land Rover on the right hand side which damaged the front wheel assembly.

The car struggled at the super special. Mechanics, however, worked frantically in time for today’s action.

Madagascan Fredrick Rakotomanga was ecstatic of his Safari debut. Speaking through an interpreter, Fredrick said the spectator stage was okay. He

was happy to see so many spectators.

Leg1B spectator point on Saturday will be based at the Kenya Marble Quarries Road. Spectators will be required to turn at the signpost situated on the junction at Kudu Hills; approximately 6.5kms from Kajiado town and drive in for a further 10km. The first car on Leg 1B’s spectator stage is expected to go through its run at 11oclock with five hours of hair-raising thrills planned for rallying enthusiasts.

July 2011

47

MOTORSPORT

FIA ISSUE “RACE TRUE” ANTI-DOPING LIST TO SAFARI

C

Photo: mangat fans

CARTRACK IMPROVES RALLY TRACKING

M

embers of the public kept abreast of the 2011 KCB Safari Rally in ‘real time’, thanks to an innovative online tracking link by Car Track Limited.

Car Track, who are co-sponsoring the KCB Kenya National Rally Championship, streamed the event live on its website (www.cartrack.co.ke) in conjunction with Event’s Internet Service Providers- iWay Africa.

To access the event proceedings, one was required to click on the rally link that will offer instructions on how to use the system.

James Kahonge, the Car Track Sales and Marketing Manager sounded quite optimistic that the tracking setup “keeps improving by event.

“Car Track monitored the movement of all 79 cars (on transport road sections and competitive stages) from Rally Headquarters at K.I.C.C. with ALS providing a waiting chopper just in case of any eventuality. Kahonge said tracking of rally cars did not only enhance safety of the crew, “but earned the country considerable points in FIA’s score- card as Kenya seeks to bid for WRC candidature in 2013.”Mr. Francois Pretorius was the FIA observer while Viren Goricha from Kenya was the FIA Technical delegate and Ralf Stead from Zimbabwe the Chairman of Stewards.

Car Track has been using Rector Maps but this time round Google Maps were applicable as well.

The user name is kcbsafarirally and the

password cartrack.” Starting with the Safari Rally we categorised cars in regards to their respective categories which is ARC, Supplementary and 2WD and enthusiasts can follow a category of their choice. We realise that the public is keen on monitoring developments across the board by identifying a competitor from the divisional level,” Kahonge explained.

“We started off with Galoolli version 4.2 software when we initially tracked the first 10cars but its quite satisfactory at this point in time that we’ve upgraded to ZonControl Version 10.2. A new feature we have added into this version is ability to see the vehicle in both Vector Maps as well as Google Maps which enhances interaction with the viewer. Also from the system we can now be able to replay four rallies back upon display.” In the short term, Kahonge is glad that Car Track can now relay data at hair-raising speeds in digital format.”In case of an incident, we can also pinpoint the location by providing co-ordinates which is another addition to the Zon Control software which works in ALS’s language of coordinates for easier and faster loacation.As we endavour to improve the rally Cartrack is in the process of developing a timing system that can be incorporated to the existing KMSF timing system to improve on the accuracy and realibility of the results”

48 July 2011

DRIVERS

rews in the 59th KCB Safari Rally 2011 came face to face with the FIA “Race True” Anti doping campaign.

All competitors partaking the Safari were issued with a copy of the FIA anti doping list with clear guidelines indicating prohibited substances. Surinder Thatthi, the FIA representative in Kenya said the global body is enforcing the anti doping campaign and will test drivers in one of the African Rally Championship (ARC) events which Safari counts for.

‘This is is an exercise similar to what athletes and Tour De France cyclists go through,” said Surinder. There were indications that random checks may as well happen during the Safari or any other ARC event.

Mr. Thathi said there will be severe consequences to whoever fails the test.“The guidelines include certain medication that the crews must not consume,” said Surinder. This anti doping project got underway at the end of May, with the F1 GP of Monaco, the Monaco GP2 event and the FIA drag racing event at Santa Pod, and will continue until the end of the year. In order to heighten the drivers’ awareness of anti-doping, Surinder said the FIA has decided to distribute to each driver and co-driver participating in an FIA event (cup, championship or trophy, in all disciplines), or in an International Series event, an envelope containing a letter reminding the drivers of the main points they MUST know about anti-doping (see attached) and the 2011 so-called “Prohibited List” (which includes all the substances and methods prohibited in competitive sport), in a format allowing the drivers to keep it in their wallet and therefore show it to their doctor or pharmacist whenever they need to take a medicine or any nutritional supplement.

MOTORSPORT

Chana brothers go for the jugular as Group S tussle takes shape

R

allying is, by and large, a family joy, with thousands of weekend warriors turning out to prepare and drive rally and racing cars in events all over the world.

While finding siblings that both show enthusiast talent to perform, the rivalry of Chana brothers -Jasmeet and Jaswinder “Jazzy” should culminate into some good-humoured blood rivalry come the conclusion of KCB KNRC 2011.

The CRS Motorsport brothers go head to head as they claim stake to Group S honours in their Identisyssponsored and identical Toyota Celica GT4 contraptions .

Jasmeet who leads the KNRC Group S category sounded quite febrile as Jaswinder singled out his younger brother “his biggest challenger.”

“For Safari it was a full rebuild. We were not taking any chances. We installed new parts; new shocks just to make sure everything is in good nick,” said Jasmeet.

Jasmeet teamed up with George Njoroge to win the Safari supplemetary class thus making up for their bad run in

Eldoret.

Like his elder, Jasmeet is concentrating immensely on Group S championship points. “We are leading (Group S) and I’m determined to maintain the top place because the Safari offered us double points. I’m also in Division 2 and we are fighting for that one as well. I didn’t have a good rally in Eldoret. We made a mistake on our notes but still managed 16th position,” continued Jasmeet.

For Jaswinder, things are going quite well, by and large.

Jaswinder retired in the Safari but has the never say die attitude. “The car is fully stripped and we’ve checked everything; all the basics, suspension and stuff. I did a quick test in Athi River because I had just flown in from the UK where I had gone for two weeks to purchase parts which I’m trying out now,” Jazzy explained.

Jazzy was left to rue his poor run in the first two outings in Voi and Athi River where he retired with engine and gearbox gremlins respectively.

“My main aim was to win my class in the Safari but my brother did it. That’s July 2011

49

all I was after. Although I missed out on points in the first two, I believe I still have a chance of proving my mettle in Group S; that is if my brother ( Jasmeet) falters,” Jazzy went on.

Jaswinder savoured his career best (6th) finish in Eldoret, over and above, the Group victory just when all and sundry had written him off.

“We are happy with the ECU mapping and with the great help from Simon Sharpe, we are content with what we’ve had so far. The shifting of gears is different this time round. I’m now using a sequential box that helps a lot on speed.

I used to lose a lot of time shifting gears with the normal gearbox,” Jazzy concluded.

MOTORSPORT

JASMEET CHANA WINS SUPLEMENRATY CLASS AS UGANDAN JAGJIT TAKES FORMULA TWO HONORS BY SAMSON ATEKA

T

he 59th KCB Safari Rally went down in the folklore as one of the toughest in recent years. On Sunday afternoon, enthusiastic and finishers were enjoying the prize giving on the elegant Kenya International Conference Centre finish ramp.

From behind the scenes –just moments after Carl “Flash”Tundo was feted with the third Safari scalp- the teams were either congratulating or commiserating with themselves depending on their fortunes during the previous three days.

Jagjit Singh, 35, from Uganda and former two times Kenya 2WD Champion Jasmeet Chana could hardly conceal their joy.

Jagjit won the 2WD Class as Jasmeet claimed the supplementary class which is a category reserved for cars of expired FIA homologation.

Jagjit lived in Nairobi then relocated to Uganda and made his debut in the KNRC as a navigator in 2005. The Ugandan finished fifth in 2WD in his first Safari Rally as a driver incidentally with a one stage lead by 1.30 minutes. But on Sunday, in a colorful occasion, it was a dream come true.

Jasmeet-the 2007 and 2009 2WD Champion- was all smiles after winning the Supplementary class of the Safari. He said the win has inspired him in many aspects.

“It’s a really good feeling. Safari was good but really hard given the nature of the stages. The stages were difficult but at the same time smooth to some extent. It gives me a better CV and by extension, an edge over my adverseries in group S Championship which I am still leading,” said Jasmeet.

Jasmeet’s elder brother Jaswinder Chana a.k.a. Jazzy saw his Group S championship

chances dwindle. Jaswinder kissed the Safari goodby on Saturday with drive shaft problems on CS5.

“Leg 1B on Sunday was really tough. The stages were too long and the Bulls Eye stage was as scary as ever what with its reputation as a car breaker,” said Jasmeet.

Jaswinder who won the Group S class in Eldoret Rally last April was left to rue his title chances as his younger sibling Jasmeet continued to soar higher and higher by every event. “On Day 2, we did three stages and had no problems but coming into sthe day’s 4th stage, we experienced clutch problems and subsequently, our drive shaft broke ending our rally on the spot,” said Jaswinder.

Conrad Rautenbach, the crack Zimbabwean speedster, may have found the 59th KCB Safari Rally a different ball game but that could hardly deter his spirited endeavors for FIA African Rally Championship (ARC).

Rautenbach, the 2007 ARC and Safari Rally Champion, stretched his continental lead to 96 points but was left to rue his experience on the Green Fuel Ford Fiesta S2000 which could hardly attack the Kenya terrain.

Rautenbach said: “Safari not is not good for our car which isn’t used to rough stages.

We are trying not to destroy our car which is quite difficult on these bad roads. We can’t attack on these stages. Our car is already falling apart as went into the second day,” said Rautenbach who finished 6th overall in the Safari Rally.

Reigning African Champion Jamie Whyte won the ARC after finishing fourth overall.

50 July 2011

Kick Dyno tunes Safari Rally winning car!

T

he newly installed Kick Dyno was a contributing factor in the success of Carl “Flash” Tundo and Tim Jessop as the pair powered their Mitsubishi Evo 9 to overall success in the recent KCB Safari Rally, winning the event by a margin of over eight minutes!

The Dalbit Fuel sponsored Mitsubishi had recently visited Simon Sharpe Services and after a run on the Kick Dyno was found to be woefully down on power and also suffering from a cracked intercooler.

After some engine remapping to ensure that the Group N rally car was operating at peak performance Flash and Tim then tackled the world famous Safari Rally.

The pair dominated proceedings, winning every single stage on Day 1 and then throttling back to consolidate their lead on the final day.“Flash” had this to say; after a visit to the newly installed Kick Dyno we discovered that our Evo 9 was down on power.

A remap by Simon Sharpe soon sorted out the gremlins and suddenly we found a huge increase in torque which definitely helped us this weekend! The Kick Dyno is the first operational four wheel drive dynometer north of South Africa and has revolutionized the art of fine tuning vehicles.

Utilizing Unichip Engine Management Units, for which Sharpe Services is the East African agent, the Kick Dyno can improve fuel economy, performance, apply or remove speed limiters and generally ensure that your vehicle is running properly.

MOTORSPORT RESULTS ARC PROVISIONAL RESULTS

Supplementary class provisional results

1. Carl Tundo/ Tim Jessop –Kenya (Evo 9) 2.43.45 hrs 2. Jas Mangat/ Gihan De Silnva –Uganda- (Subaru N12) 2.52.28 3. Ian Duncan/ Amaar Slatch – Kenya- (Evo 9) 2.52.48 4. James Whyte/ Philip Archenoul – Zimbabwe (Subaru N10) 2.54.14 5. Raaji Bharij/ Raju Chaggar- Kenya- Subaru N10- 2.54.40 6. Conrad Rautenbach/ Nicholas Klinger –Zimbabwe(FordS2000)2.55.24 7. Quentin Mitchelle/ Tim Challen-Kenya- (Subaru N16)2.55.56 8. Hardeep Rehsi/ Ravi Soni- Kenya-(Evo 9)- 2.58.36 9. Jean-Y Ranarivelo/ RRanaivomamiani – Mad- (Subaru N12) 2.59.02 10. Imran Mogul/ Mutuma Marimba – Kenya- (Subaru N10)2.59.02 11. Christakis Fiditis/ Guy Dekelver- Rwanda- (Subaru N12)3.02.28 12. Izhar Mirza/ Zahir Shah- Kenya- (Evo 9)-3.02.49 13. Valery Bukera/ Nital Khetia- Burundi- (Subaru N10) -3.04.20 14. Ronald Ssebuguzi/ Cedric Buzabo- Uganda-(Evo 9)- 3.06.23 15. Alain Dethise/ Ronald Vanderveken- Burundi- (Subaru N11)- 3.06.23 16. Onkar Rai/ Andrew Doig –Kenya- (Subaru N12)-3.15.19 17. Sandeep Jandu/ Gurdeep Mehangra- Kenya -(Subaru N10)3.16.44 18. Khurram Butt/ Salim Khan-Kenya- Subaru N10)-3.22.02 19. Said Hamad/Victor Okundi- Kenya- (Subaru N10)- 3.27.30 20. Fredrick Rakotomanga/ Adam Yachine-Mad-(Subaru N11) 3.33.53 21. Jitendra Dhokia/ Gurdeep Panesar- Kenya-(Subaru Impreza)3.54.05 22. Aakif Virani/ Azhar Bhatti- Kenya- (Subaru N10)- 4.23.26 23. Mital Shah/ Ravi Channiyara- Kenya- (Subaru N8)- 4.49.44

1. Jasmeet Chana/ George Njoroge –Kenya- (Toyota Celica GT4) 3.21.43 2. Alfir Khan/ Mohamed Kana- Kenya- Subaru Impreza-3.30.11 3. Shazar Anwar/ Job Njiru –Kenya- (Hybrid Pickup)- 3.32.28 4. Issa Amwari/ James Mwangi- Kenya- Subaru Impreza-3.45.44 5. Edward Maina/ Tony Kimondo-Kenya- Toyota Celica3.59.01 6. Paras Pandya/ Roy Mckenzie –Kenya- Subaru Impreza4.05.47 7. Farhaan Khan/ Thabit Kandwalla-Kenya- Subaru Impreza4.06.01 8. M Noormohammed/ Shameer Yusuf – Kenya- Subaru Impreza-4.11.30 9. Johnathen Somen/ Richard Hechle- Ford Escort- 4.22.01 10. Pauline Sheghu/ Hillary Kipchillat- Kenya- Subaru Impreza- 4.49.47 2WD Class provisional results 1. Jagjit Sighn/ Pinal Patel –Uganda- (VW Golf)- 2.12.18 2. Patrick Kibaara/ Nehreen Ismail – Kenya-2.12.25 3. Niaz Bashir/ Jonathan Kosgei- Kenya- Toyota Celica-2.14.43 4. Joel Muchiri/ Riyaz Ismael- Kenya- Toyota Levin- 2.22.24 5. Naveed Khalid/ Adnan Din- Kenya- Toyota Levin- 2.24.19 6. Nick Patel/ Andy McDononall- Kenya- Mercedes Benz 2.31.57 7. Adnan Suhail/ Absalom Aswani- Kenya- Daihatsu Charade2.32.40 8. Dennis Mwenda/ Shakil Umar- Kenya-VW Golf-2.47.02 9. James Kirimi/ Kiremi Korir- Kenya- VW Golf-2.54.17 10. Rashid Kabi/ Eric Nzuva- Kenya- Peugeot 206- 2.55.49 11. Gideon Kimani/ Laban Cliff- Kenya- Toyota Levin3.00.22

DRIVERS HONOR LATE LOCHAB

C

rews at the 59th KCB Safari Rally wore black arm bands in loving memory of the late Randeep Singh Lochab.

Randeep, a Division Three KNRC driver, was killed in a grisly accident in Naivasha on May 29 en-route to testing his Subaru Impreza N10.

The deceased had just handed in his entry for the Safari not knowing that the cruel hand of fate was to reach out with its fallible talons.

As a result, the Lochab Brothers of Eldoret have donated a trophy that will be presented by rally driver Manvir Singh Baryan to the best placed Sikh driver in the 2011 KCB Safari Rally.

Randeep’s Cousin Nikku Lochab said the Lochabs have sponsored the award as a sign of respect to Randeep’s dedicated effort into the Rally sport. This will be a floating trophy in the Safari Rally.

Photo: Mangat hoists the Lochab Memorial Trophy for the best Sikh driver

BOOK REVIEW Title: Automotive Technology and Automotive Machining Author: Josph Heltner Available: University Book Shops

Need to know the basics of an Automobile? this are the books for you

T

he leading authority on service and repair procedures for contemporary automobiles remains the most technically comprehensive on the market!

The fourth edition of Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach has been updated to reflect the most recent technological developments in the industry, featuring state-of-the-art coverage of hybrid vehicles, GPS systems, electronic ignition systems, DIS, fuel injection systems, and more.

This enhanced presentation of the theory, diagnosis, and service of automobiles and light trucks takes into account all the latest trends, including variable valve timing, lift and variable compression ratios, fuels and alternative energy sources, as well as the latest engine designs and technologies.

The essential must have information contained in this book will help readers understand and efficiently diagnose and service yesterdays, todays, and tomorrows automotive systems and vehicles.

52 July 2011

T

he automotive lubricants arena has undergone significant changes since the first edition of this book was published in 1996.

Environmental concerns, particularly reagarding improvement of ar quality have been important in recent years, Reduced emmissions are directly related to changes in lubricant specifications and quality, and the second edition of the Automotive Lubricants Reference Book reflects the urgency of such matters by including updated and expanded detail.

This second edition also considers the recent phenomenon of increased consolidation within the oil and petroleum additive arenas, which has resulted in fewer poeple for research, devlopment, and implementation, along with fewer competing companies.

After reviewing the first edition the authors have fully reviewed and updated the information to fit in with the changes in technology and markets.

MUST WATCH Title: X-Men: First Class Available: Fox Cineplex Saarit, Westgate Rating: *****

T

o say that X-Men: First Class is the best X-Men movie is slight praise. That’s not a particularly high bar. To say that it’s the best Marvel movie since Spider-Man 2 is a little better, but still lowballing. To say that it’s the best superhero film since The Dark Knight is nice, but it’s untrue. I liked X-Men: First Class more than The Dark Knight (we can save arguments over objective qualities for later). The best praise I can give X-Men: First Class is that it’s a wonderful movie, not just a wonderful XMen movie or a wonderful Marvel movie or a wonderful superhero movie.

It’s a damn good film, full stop, all other genres and ghetto-izations aside.

X-Men: First Class is a great pop adventure movie. It’s bright and fun, and it takes itself just seriously enough where it matters – which is with the characters. The script, credited to Ashley Miller & Zack Stentz and Matthew Vaughn & Jane Goldman, with story by Bryan Singer and Sheldon Turner, takes the characters and relationships seriously and makes them the driving center of the film. There’s a good, if a bit shaggy, story of international intrigue and globe-threatening villainy, but that’s the frame on which is hung a a bunch of great, engaging characters.

The film begins where the first X-Men movie did, with young Erik Lensherr being dragged away by Auschwitz prison guards and exhibiting his budding mastery of magnetism. But First Class keeps going from there, and we see how his powers drew the attention of a sinister camp scientist, played

by Kevin Bacon, and how that scientist discovered the key to Erik’s ability is pain and anger.

Good and evil are concepts too simple for these characters (although not for the film. The villain’s plan is cartoonishly evil, but it’s part of the fun).

Erik isn’t evil. He’s angry. And understandably so, as the film immerses us in the horrors he’s experienced right at the start. And Michael Fassbender, playing the grown up Erik who criss crosses the globe like a mutant James Bond, picking off Nazi war criminals, understands that anger completely.

And makes us understand it, allowing us to see how pain and rage are inextricably intertwined in Erik’s psyche.

What’s great is that the dichotomy between Magneto and Professor X isn’t good and evil but love and anger – not even hate, just consuming anger.

These are the choices that the mutants see before them, the naive love of Xavier or the wounded anger of Magneto. A lot of lip service has been paid over the years to these two being Martin Luther King Jr and Malcolm X, but every movie has made me think the people making the films believe Malcolm X to be an asshole. In Vaughn’s film the Malcolm X position is understandable, and can even be condoned.

Of course there is evil. Kevin Bacon’s Nazi character reappears in the film’s present day (1962) as Sebastian Shaw, the leader of a mysterious group called The Hellfire Club. It turns out that Shaw and his companions, fellow mutants Emma Frost and Riptide, are blackmailing world leaders into escalating Cold War tensions between the US and the USSR. His eventual goal: WWIII, which he believes will allow the mutants to dominate the July 2011

(L to R) MATT SCHULZE, TYRESE GIBSON, GAL GADOT, VIN DIESEL, PAUL WALKER, JORDANA BREWSTER, SUNG KANG and CHRIS “LUDACRIS” BRIDGES in Fast Five

Earth. They are, after all, the children of the atom.

If I have any serious complaint about the film it’s that the last fifteen minutes shoe horn in a bunch of developments in order to get the characters to the accepted status quo. I would have been perfectly happy waiting another film or two to see the Erik/Charles schism truly rupture, if only because McAvoy and Fassbender have incredible chemistry. There’s a sense at the end of First Class that nobody knows if they’ll make another story set in the time period, so they want to move all the characters into the positions they were in during the Singer years. Normally I’m against movies hedging their bets, holding stuff back for sequels, but in this case I think there was still a lot of great ground to cover.

But even that serious complaint is minor. I love this movie, flaws and all. It’s a movie that proves you don’t have to be po-faced and grim to make a great superhero film. It’s a movie that proves that you don’t have to be stupid and have paper thin characters to make a fun summer movie. And it’s a movie that proves that the X-Men, in all their big, weird, science fiction glory truly work on screen. Imagine if Grant Morrison rewrote a classic Stan Lee/Jack Kirby X-Men story and had Chris Claremont come onboard to work on the characters; that’s what gets you closest to the amazing energy of X-Men: First Class.

53

MOTORSPORT (Casey Stoner and Andrea Dovizioso )

Bahrain GP ‘Not On’ After All

T

here is something not quite right going on in the world of Formula 1 these days, a world shaken and outraged at the news that the Bahrain GP will be reinstated and at the same time calmed by a bizarre statement, given the context, made by the F1 supremo, Bernie Ecclestone.

Ecclestone, who had been advocating for the Bahrain GP to remain on the calendar this season, and even convinced the FIA to unanimously vote for the reinstatement of the Grand Prix last Friday, now says, with a disarming serenity, that the Bahrain GP “of course it’s not on.”

What changed since mid this month?

Nothing, really, except for the fact that the FIA seems to have finally read its own rule book. In there somewhere, a little article, No. 66, prevents the ruling body from deciding to amend the ongoing season without the express consent of the teams. A consent that, obviously, is nowhere to be found on this matter.

“Hopefully we can return in the future, but of course it’s not on,” Ecclestone told BBC. “The schedule cannot be rescheduled without the agreement of the participants - they’re the facts.”

Obviously, this statement is not yet the official announcement surrounding the cancellation of the Bahrain GP. It will probably become official soon, making the entire debate of the past week, with tons of ink dedicated to the subject, a complete waste of time.

So why was the FIA so anxious to announce the reinstatement of the Bahrain GP? Hard to tell. At the time, the King of Bahrain announced that peace has fallen from the sky upon the kingdom, and all will be well. Only a few days later, after the state of emergency had been lifted, protesters were back out on the streets, clashing with the government forces.

54 July 2011

Stoner and Dovizioso Visit the Red Bull Racing F1 HQ Ahead of the Silverstone GP last weekend, a part of the Repsol Honda riders paid a visit to the Red Bull Racing facilities in Milton Keynes. The riders in question were Casey Stoner and Andrea Dovizioso, who both toured the Red Bull F1 factory and were offered an exclusive behind the scenes view of how the current F1 World Champions operate.

Moreover, they had the chance to test F1 Simulator, the same machine used by Red Bull F1 pilots Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber throughout the year to prepare for races.

“The whole day has been amazing, to learn how much technology is used in F1 and see it first hand is spectacular. When I watch the F1 races now I’m going to know a little more about what’s going on behind the scenes and understand what the drivers are going through.

My time on the simulator was something special, to understand how late they can actually brake was something remarkable to experience and I guess it’s as close as I’ll ever get to feeling that. I’d like to thank all the guys at Red Bull, it’s been an unbelievable day and something I’d love to do again for sure,” Stoner said.

“Today has been something very special, you can’t imagine how many people are working towards winning the race, to ensure everything is perfect and to develop things for the F1 car. With my experience on bikes, I feel you can develop many things but with the car it seems there is no limit. The simulator was very difficult, I expected more movement but easier. When I saw the lap time it wasn’t so nice to see! The braking in corner entry is very strange to get used to, something I didn’t expect. I made 15 laps but it was difficult to try and improve because it was something almost beyond the limit!” added Dovizioso.