Motoring News Issue 2
VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE DUNE CONCEPT BRINGS SUNSHINE TO DETROIT
January 2014
The latest Beetle Dune concept also revisits an idea from January 2000, when Volkswagen showed the New Beetle Dune concept in Los Angeles. But while that vehicle was far from a production possibility, the Beetle Dune is very much based on the current production model, using the same 210 PS turbocharged petrol engine and six-speed DSG gearbox, providing power to the front wheels. Further information on and images of the Beetle Dune concept will be available after the car makes its debut at the NAIAS on 13 January.
new recruits will join over 400 existing apprentices currently undergoing training across the company’s UK operations, and within its BMW and MINI dealer network, with some able to rise beyond NVQ to degree qualifications. In its MINI UK production network, the business is looking for 49 new apprentices to take up places in August as the plants ramp up production of the next model generation. In addition, BMW and MINI dealerships are looking to recruit around 110 young people across the UK. Skills and Enterprise Minister Matthew Hancock said: “It is always encouraging
In the midst of a ferociously cold Michigan winter, the new Volkswagen Beetle Dune concept is all set to bring a hint of summer sunshine when it makes its debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit next week. The Beetle Dune is based on the latest version of the iconic Volkswagen, and adds a cool, rugged off-road look. The
body has been raised by 50 mm compared with a standard Beetle, while 19inch wheels with large tyres lend an allterrain look. A rear-mounted ski-rack is reminiscent of those fitted to classic Beetles, and makes a perfect accessory for the season. In the summer, it could hold a sandboard – the ideal accessory for surfing the sand dunes from which the Beetle Dune takes its name.
BMW GROUP SEEKS 160 NEW APPRENTICES TO JOIN UK MANUFACTURING AND DEALER OPERATIONS IN 2014 BMW Group is looking for around 160 young people with a passion for the motor industry to take up apprenticeships available through its company and dealership schemes in 2014. The
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to see large employers, such as BMW, committing to employing more apprentices. This scheme is a great opportunity for a young person with an interest in the automotive sector to begin a rewarding career. I want choosing university or an apprenticeship to be the new norm for young people and the range of positions available demonstrate this is becoming a reality.” Apprenticeships in the MINI UK production network MINI Plant Oxford has 31 places available in a variety of areas ranging from finance and logistics to engineering and IT. Technical apprentices will attend Plant Oxford’s new bespoke training school, featuring state-of-the-art classrooms, dedicated computer study areas and a fully-equipped workshop. With 10 apprenticeships available at the Plant Swindon pressings plant and a further eight at the Hams Hall engine plant near Birmingham, apprenticeships last between three and four years and cover a wide range of skills from human resources and business to electrical maintenance and engineering. The training leads to an NVQ level three qualification and some young people will have the opportunity to progress right through to degree level in the course of their career at MINI. Frank Bachmann, Managing Director, MINI Plant Oxford and Swindon, said: “Investment in young people is a key part of our development strategy for the plants and it is vital that we attract the very best young talent to ensure the business has the right skills for the future. We are delighted to be able to offer young people the chance to join our modern apprenticeship scheme.” Young people can also apply for an apprenticeship through a Facebook page which can be found at www.facebook.com/BmwCareersUK. The closing date for applications is 31 January 2014. Apprenticeships in the BMW and MINI UK dealer network For the 110 apprentices to be recruited to MINI and BMW dealerships, there are programmes in various disciplines ranging from Service Technician, Parts Advisor, Motorcycle Technician and Body Panel/Paint. All BMW and MINI dealer apprentices complete the three-year Advanced Modern Apprenticeship at Level 3, the Parts Advisor programme is two years, and receive VRQ/VCQ qualifications from the Institute of the Motor Industry. Training is carried out at the
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BMW Group Academy UK, a purposebuilt training centre opened in 2006 and located near Reading, the Bodyshop programmes are carried out at our training facility in Milton Keynes. In general the minimum entry criteria require between three and four GSCEs at grade C or above or equivalent. Commenting on the 2014 intake, Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW Group UK, said: "Bringing new talent into our dealerships is vital to ensure we provide the best possible service for our customers and so I am delighted that we will welcome over 100 new apprentices to our award- winning scheme in the UK."
LONDON MOTOR MUSEUM TO DISPLAY RARE AND UNIQUE CARS AT AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL 2014 Home to one of the largest collections of both classic and custom automobiles in Europe, the London Motor Museum will proudly be displaying some
of its rarest machinery at the world’s greatest four wheel indoor extravaganza this weekend. London Motor Museum founder Elo, will take the Gumpert Apollo, GT500 and the RAAW street rod to showcase the rare and unique cars from the collection of over 200 all available to view at the museum in Hayes, London seven days a week. The Gumpert Apollo has been part of the London Motor Museum’s collection for over two years and is one of the fastest supercars in the world. Also on display will be the GT500, a Ford Mustang Shelby and one of the world’s most powerful production V8s with a top speed of 202mph. The RAAW street rod is a 1952 Chevrolet speedster street rod and has been uniquely customised by the London Motor Museum. Inspired by World War 2 fighter jets London Motor Museum has chopped, channelled and decked the original two door sedan and created a boat tail by welding the bonnet to the rear. Autosport International is the world’s greatest four wheel indoor extravaganza held at the NEC, Birmingham featuring every level of motor racing from karting to Formula 1. Now in it’s 24th year the show caters for both industry professionals and motorsport fans with exhibitors from the entire automotive world on display. London Motor Museum owner and founder Elo commented: “Autosport International is a fantastic exhibition and we’re delighted to be taking three
unique cars from our 200-strong collection, to show a different side to motorsport and car culture. Each of the cars represents something different from the London Motor Museum and all have our unique stamp on them – come and see for yourselves!” London Motor Museum will feature on stand 9220 on the 11th and 12th January. Autosport International tickets are available to purchase at https:// www.theticketfactory.com/ai/online/ About London Motor Group: London Motor Group is parent company to the London Supercar Workshop and London Motor Museum, and specialises in unique and exceptional custom car conversions. Owner and founder, Elo, is a former international fashion model, and the work of the London Motor Group is a reflection of his unique personality and character. London Supercar Workshop is the creative epicentre of the operation, with cars from all over the world, often belonging to international music, sports and movie stars undergoing customisation in this unique and specialist environment dedicated to Elo and his team’s automotive passion and artistic flare. London Motor Museum is the only custom car museum in Europe, housing a unique collection of more than 200 pri-
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Gumpert Apollo vately owned American and European classic cars ranging from the 1930s through to the present day and showcasing the latest creations from the Supercar Workshop. With much more than just classic cars, the London Motor Museum boasts a range of unique vehicles and exhibitions including The Movie Car Section, The Bat-Cave (home to both the 1966 and 1989 Batmobile), Muscle Car Alley, The Supercar Paddock (home to some of the fastest cars in the world) and much more.
RAAW Hotrod
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ART AND DESIGN COME TOGETHER FOR INFINITI
'Artistic brilliance' is the theme that unites new London-based cultural initiatives by Infiniti. As work progresses on Infiniti's first London design studio, the luxury performance brand is also looking to the arts - by supporting two major London shows this month where great design comes as standard. Infiniti is a sponsor of the London Art Fair, being held at the Islington Business Design Centre from January 15–19 (with special VIP and media viewings taking place on Tuesday January 14). London Art Fair covers Modern British and contemporary art and includes a broad spectrum of work from artist collectives and younger emerging galleries through to the large established galleries of Mayfair. Infiniti will be on hand to chauffeur all VIP guests to and from the show throughout the week, utilising its latest models such as the all-new Q50 saloon, the larger Q70 and the design-led sports utility vehicle the QX70, previously known as the FX. Special VIP tickets can be won for the London Art Fair by simply following the
@InfinitiGB Twitter account and retweeting the specific competition tweet – closing date Midnight on Thursday 9th January. Infiniti is also looking to the performing arts by once again sponsoring Cirque du Soleil. The innovative troupe's latest trapeze, juggling and dance show, Quidam, follows a young girl's escape into the world of imagination. There is no better place for her thoughts to get lost in than at the Royal Albert Hall. The show continues from now until February 16. The Infiniti and Cirque du Soleil partnership is a natural fit. Each embodies the spirit of performance, passion, precision and provocation in order to turn movement into an art form. The global partnership between Infiniti and Cirque du Soleil started in 2010 and has presented big top and arena shows around the world, delighting audiences with up to 20 simultaneous shows on tour at a time. The new Infiniti Design London (IDL) studio is currently in construction. More details of the centre will be released closer to the time of completion, expected Spring 2014.
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ALL-NEW FORD MUSTANG TO MAKE ITS SILVER SCREEN DEBUT IN HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MOVIE NEED FOR SPEED Ford Mustang has been a star of the silver screen and the small screen for nearly 50 years, with more than 3,200 appearances in movies and television shows. Now, the all-new Mustang is getting off to a quick start with its movie debut in Need for Speed on March 14. Need for Speed star Aaron Paul will drive the custom 2014 Mustang hero car in the highly anticipated movie based on the long-running Electronic Arts video game series, and will take
ing fans for nearly five decades,” said Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president, global marketing, sales and service and Lincoln. “The feeling of optimism and being in control that Mustang’s world-class power and performance provide is a perfect match for Aaron Paul’s character in Need for Speed.” When the original Mustang debuted in April 1964, it was still an unknown quantity, but the producers of Goldfinger almost immediately cast a Wimble-
“I chose Mustang because it is a car that really represents American culture,” said Waugh. “It just represents modern muscle, and it’s iconic, having been in some of the greatest car chase movies of all time.”
able advanced driver-assist systems, track apps, launch control and more.
Chronicling the filmography of Mustang is such an enormous job that it took more than 100 contributors to build out the MustangIMDB.com site created by Stefan Thorarensen, founder and board member of The Icelandic Mustang Club. With more than 3,200 entries, the list grows almost daily.
BENTLEY UNVEILS LIMITED EDITION BIRKIN MULSANNE
Reflecting the importance of movies to the Mustang story, Hollywood was selected as one of six venues for the global reveal of the all-new pony car on Dec. 5, 2013. Mustang was driven out onto a pad of wet cement in the forecourt of the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. Like nearly 200 human stars, including several actors who helped make Mustang a star of the silver screen, the new pony had its prints and signature logo preserved for posterity in the cement. Fans of the video game franchise already have access to virtual drives of the new Mustang, which became available as a free in-game download in EA’s Need for Speed™ Rivals in mid-December. Players in the game can also customize their Mustangs with a choice of five popular designs created using the online Mustang Customizer, including one inspired by RTR founder and drift champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. 2015 Ford Mustang
the wheel of the next-generation Mustang in its first on-screen appearance as well. “On-screen or on the road, the sight and sound of Mustang has been inspir-
don white 1965 convertible in the movie. Five decades later, Mustang is an automotive and cultural icon, and Need for Speed director Scott Waugh wasted no time getting the new Mustang into his film.
The all-new Mustang is the most advanced version yet of the iconic pony car. The sleek new design of Mustang Fastback and Convertible is backed up by world-class performance from a range of available engines including a new turbocharged EcoBoost® 2.3-litre and 5.0-litre V8 with more than 426 PS. In addition to state-of-the-art connectivity systems, Mustang features avail-
Bentley Motors today unveils a new Limited Edition model exclusively for European customers, the Birkin Mulsanne. Taking inspiration from Sir Henry ‘Tiger’ Tim Birkin – the legendary Bentley Boy who travelled and raced extensively around Europe in the 1920s and 1930s – this new model features numerous unique styling details and represents the pinnacle of British luxury motoring in its most discerning form. The Limited Edition of just 22 cars is available in three colour specifications: a fresh and contemporary Ghost White, Damson for a more vibrant touch, and a sophisticated contrast of Fountain Blue and Dark Sapphire, offering a modern interpretation of the classic two-tone Bentley paint design. Numbered door sill plaques, a unique 21" wheel design inspired by those on the original Mulsanne concept car, and a striking 3D ‘Flying B’ logo stitched into the vehicle headrests and inlaid into the wood of the front fascia and rear picnic tables, identify the Birkin models. In addition, all three specifications feature a stunning tailored luggage set – each one hand-crafted, individually numbered and matched with the interior of each car. Items have been selected for the Birkin Limited Edition from the Mulsanne’s extensive options list for the well-travelled connoisseur and the Mulliner Driving Specification delivers an en-
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TOYOTA REVEALS ITS “ULTIMATE” SPORTS COUPE CONCEPT A daring new Toyota coupe concept breaks cover at the Detroit motor show today. The new FT-1 concept is the result of Toyota’s Calty design studio’s mission to create the ultimate sports car. The California-based team, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, has produced a car that is strikingly modern, yet which makes reference to Toyota’s rich sports car history, going back to the 2000GT of the mid-1960s. The exterior captures the look of racecar with a curvilinear form, pronounced front wings and sharply defined contrasts that express powerful performance. The FT-1’s optimum aerodynamic qualities are communicated by its large air intakes, exhaust ports and retractable rear wing.
sanne embodies the essence of Birkin’s beliefs as motoring connoisseur. Now, with its unique styling details and exquisite specification, the Limited Edition Birkin Mulsanne is an automotive homage to one of Bentley’s most influential visionaries.
gaging motoring experience thanks to a unique ‘Sport’ setting on the Drive Dynamics Control system. An intricate diamond quilting pattern to the seats and door panels, complemented by an indented leather headlining and ‘knurling’ details to the interior metalwork, create a contemporary and tactile finish to the cabin. For those travelling in the rear of the Birkin Mulsanne’s spacious cabin, the Entertainment Specification offers a luxurious and comfortable space to work or relax while on the move. Each car features exquisitely-packaged twin 8" LCD screens in the rear of the seat headrests, a DVD player, a Wi-Fi
hotspot, the Naim for Bentley premium audio system and iPads integrated into the hand-crafted solid wood picnic tables. A tribute to Tim Birkin The muse for this Limited Edition Mulsanne, Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin, was celebrated as both racing legend and unassuming style icon in his time, epitomising the idea of the British gentleman racer. The Birkin Mulsanne specifications are born from the idea of how Birkin would commission a Bentley today. With its effortless performance and luxurious hand-crafted cabin, the Bentley Mul-
Birkin’s first Bentley was bought simply out of a love of fine motoring, but over time he became increasingly involved with Bentley’s efforts on the road and race track, culminating with his key role in the development of the ‘Blower’ Bentley in 1928. Birkin saw that to retain its competitive racing edge, the company needed to increase the power of the 130 bhp Bentley 4 ½ litre, and so pushed to fit the car with a supercharger, which increased power to an impressive 242 bhp. Birkin convinced company owner Woolf Barnato and financial-backer Dorothy Paget to support a production run of 50 cars in order to qualify for Le Mans. It was for this car – and his fearless style of driving it – that Birkin is perhaps best known.
The front engine/rear-wheel drive configuration allows the cockpit to set further towards the rear of the car, within the wheelbase, helping improve weight distribution and create classic sports car proportions. The wraparound windscreen and side glass arrangement are a clear nod to the design of the original 2000GT. The ergonomics of the cabin capitalise on the car’s low centre of gravity, helping the driver derive the maximum reward from the driving experience. A delta-shaped display zone helps make the driver feel at the heart of the action, fully connected to the car. This quality is reinforced by the Formula 1style steering wheel and a colour headup display that projects key information just above the wheel. The designers have pushed the A-pillars as far back as possible, to increase visibility when cornering. Traditionally Toyota’s design decisions have been driven by consensus among a large group of people; as part of a company movement to give Toyota products more energy and passion, the process has been streamlined. This ap-
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proach has been fundamental to the development of the FT-1, a concept that captures Toyota’s aim of creating cars that connect more deeply with customers and generate a more satisfying ownership experience.
AUDI AS TRENDSETTER AT LE MANS For 15 years, Audi has been demonstrating ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ in the world’s toughest endurance race. With the latest generation of the R18 e-tron quattro hybrid race car Audi continues its string of technical innovations at the Le Mans 24 Hours. In 152 days from now, on June 14, the 82nd running of the French endurance
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classic will start at 3 p.m. Interest in the event is already exceptionally high. For the first time, Audi and Porsche, the race’s two most successful brands, will be pitted against each other. Toyota, after suffering two defeats against Audi, is aiming to break the four rings’ string of victory at Le Mans. Plus, for the first time, new regulations with a main focus on energy efficiency will be in effect – for Audi, the inventor of the TDI, this will provide an opportunity to again prove its great technical expertise not only on the road but on the race track. Be it with the engine, hybrid drive,
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twice the range of LED headlights. With that, Audi is making an important contribution to safety on the track and in road traffic.” Advanced engine technologies for maximum efficiency In 2001, an innovative V8 engine powered the Audi R8. TFSI gasoline direct injection metered the fuel in a way that reduced the consumption of the V8 turbo power-plant, improved responsiveness and, due to the engine’s ability to immediately start again, shortened the stopping times in the pits while making more power output available. Just
ered race car had been considered wishful thinking until then – today, it is regular reality. To date, Audi has won the race seven times on TDI power, with learning effects continually being fed into the design of crankcases, pistons, fuel injectors and other assemblies in production development. e-tron quattro hybrid drive takes Le Mans victory Audi was the first Le Mans participant to win with a hybrid drive system and therefore again made motorsport history. 2012 saw the first victory of the Audi R18 e-tron quattro, a sports prototype with a rear axle being powered by a TDI internal combustion engine and a front axle driven by electric power. A fully electronic control strategy was the only connection between the two drive systems. In parallel, Audi also expanded its product range by hybrid models.
lightweight design, or by setting standards in active and passive safety: Audi’s Le Mans prototypes are front runners in terms of sporting performance as well as technology. “Le Mans is a unique test laboratory for our technologies,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, who is responsible for Technical Development on the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “The comprehensive range of new technical developments of our current Le Mans race car includes the headlights with laser light. They illuminate the track for a distance of up to 800 meters. In a planned derivation for production vehicles, they achieve up to 500 meters, which is
shortly following the first Le Mans success, Audi’s customers were able to order the first production models featuring gasoline direct injection. This fuel induction principle soon evolved into the standard in large-volume production series. Today, TFSI engines contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions in millions of cars. Five years after this debut, Audi showed another pioneering achievement. In the 2006 season, the Audi R10 TDI powered by a direct-injection diesel engine won the endurance classic at La Sarthe right on its first run. Winning Le Mans with a diesel-pow-
The next generation is now ready for launch. In 2014, Audi starts delivering the A3 Sportback e-tron, a latest-generation plug-in hybrid. In racing, the new 2014-specification R18 e-tron quattro is pointing the way to the future. The Audi engineers have fundamentally redesigned it, as the race car has to manage both, running on a limited amount of energy and achieving the best lap times. Highly sophisticated detailed solutions for higher safety and lower weight In addition to the pioneering powertrain solutions, Audi has been setting standards in other areas as well. Perfect lightweight design combined with maximum passive safety is manifested
in the safety cell of the sports cars. The monocoque made of carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) in 2013 weighed only half as much as the one used in Audi’s first LMP race car in 1999 – despite greater restrictions specified by the regulations. This material has long made its way into production vehicles, for instance in body components of the R8, the R8 Spyder and the RS 3. Active safety has been significantly improved by Audi with ever new lighting technologies. The LED daytime running light in the Audi R10 TDI (2006–2008) was followed by full LED headlights in the R18 TDI (2011), matrix LED technology in the R18 e-tron quattro (2012– 2013) and the innovative laser light in the next R18 e-tron quattro (from 2014). The digital rear-view mirror with a camera projecting the action at the rear on an innovative AMOLED display in the cockpit, which has been used since the 2012 season, reflects another future trend. “The general public and the motorsport audience have come to expect Audi to play this part of a trendsetter,” says Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We are proud to be at the very front with these innovations in our motorsport commitment, while benefiting from Audi Sport being a part of the Technical Development of AUDI AG on a daily basis. We aim to continue to prove the Audi-typical ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ in tough racing conditions with our Le Mans prototypes in the future – even though in 2014 we’re no doubt facing the greatest challenge ever at Le Mans.”
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NINE DECADES OF BENTLEY TO RACE TOGETHER AT DONINGTON PARK
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On Saturday, June 7th 2014, Donington Park will reverberate to the unmistakable sound of Bentley engines spanning nine decades, as Bentleys of all ages come together in a unique onemarque race. This spectacular sight of the iconic British marque at the legendary British circuit celebrates the 90th anniversary of Bentley’s first win at Le Mans and is being staged by the Bentley Drivers Club (BDC) at the AMOC Donington race meeting. Already a tradition at the BDC annual race meeting at Silverstone, models spanning the decades will be out on track together for a 20-minute scratch race at Donington Park, a favourite circuit of racing legends and spectators alike. The sight and sound of Bentleys just a few months old hurtling towards Redgate or weaving their way round the Craner Curvers side by side with Bentleys old enough to be their grandparents - or even great-grandparents is sure to be one race that fans will never forget. Showcasing the racing heritage and diversity of the marque, this is a fabulous opportunity to witness some simultaneous open- and closed-wheel racing, with speed differentials equivalent to that at Le Mans between the prototypes and GT touring cars, as 3-litres, 3/4½s, 3/8’s, 4½s, Derbys, Mark VI Specials, the explosive 24-litre Bentley Napier and the Worthington brothers’ Mulsanne Turbo and technicolour Continental GT demonstrate their paces. Duncan Wiltshire, Race Co-Ordinator for AMOC Racing, said “AMOC Racing are delighted that the Bentley Drivers Club will be racing at the AMOC Donington race meeting. Given the warm relations between the Aston Martin Owners Club and the Bentley Drivers Club over many decades, the Bentley race is a most fitting and welcome addition to our programme, which includes races for the AMOC Intermarque Championship, 50s Sports Cars and ‘Equipe’ GTs.” Bentley Drivers Club Competitions Captain Sebastian Welch added, “The BDC is a comparatively small club, and organising a one-marque race at another race meeting is a significant achievement. We are thrilled to be celebrating the 90th anniversary of the first Bentley Le Mans win in this way with an extra race, and would like to thank AMOC Racing for inviting us to stage the race at AMOC Donington. We are sure it will prove hugely enjoyable for competitors and spectators.”
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THE LEGENDARY ‘MONTE’: VOLKSWAGEN STARTS THE WRC WITH A CLASSIC From the hunter to the hunted: Volkswagen’s mission to defend its titles in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) opens with a genuine motorsport classic at the Rally Monte Carlo, as the “Monte” is the oldest rally in the world. From 14 to 19 January, the French pairing of Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia will line up for the first time as defending World Champions in both the Driver and Co-Driver competitions. Together with team-mates JariMatti Latvala/Miikka Anttila (FIN/FIN), they are the team to beat in the Manufacturers’ Championship, in which they can also count on able assistance from Andreas Mikkelsen/Mikko Markkula (N/ FIN). The first of the 13 rallies on the 2014 calendar is immediately one of the hardest nuts to crack in the WRC. Virtually unpredictable conditions and 15 testing special stages on asphalt, ice and snow in the French Maritime Alps, not to mention night stages and temperatures well below freezing – the Rally Monte Carlo is one of the greatest challenges in motorsport. “We line up at the Rally Monte Carlo with start number 1 on one of our Polo R WRCs for the first time,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito. “This honour is reserved for the World Champion, and is something we are very proud of. However, this does
not mean that we will be arrogant or complacent this season – particularly not at the iconic ‘Monte’. We will approach it with the greatest respect, maximum concentration, and absolute commitment. It is easier to win a World Championship title than it is to defend it. And that is our goal. The 2014 ‘Monte’ will give us the first indication of where we stand compared to the new-look opposition. We are looking forward to it.” Victory at the “Monte” – a question of prestige Formula One Grand Prix in Monaco, the Le Mans 24 Hours, the Indianapolis 500, the Rally Dakar and the Rally Monte Carlo – they are the five most prestigious motorsport competitions in the world. This year’s “Monte”, as the mother of all WRC rallies is affectionately known by fans, features four former winners. Sébastien Ogier/Julien Ingrassia, now driving for Volkswagen, won in 2009. They were followed in 2010 by Mikko Hirvonen/Jarmo Lehtinen, who will race for Ford in 2014, and fellow Ford pairing Bryan Bouffier/ Xavier Panseri who triumphed in 2011. However, all three of these duos are missing the icing on the cake – their victories all came in the IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge) in a car complying with the Super 2000 regulations. A “Monte” win in the World Rally
Championship? Only old hand François Delecour from France – also in action for Ford in 2014 – can boast one of those. New rules, new challenge A new sporting format and a new challenger – the 2014 World Rally Championship season has a number of new features for fans and competitors alike. The previous qualifying procedure at gravel rallies is omitted. Instead, the starting order will now be based on the current World Championship standings. Detailed amendments have also been made to the rules allowing competitors to return under Rally2 regulations. Over the course of the season, the itineraries for the rounds of the World Rally Championship will be standardised. In the future, the rallies will all begin with the start ceremony on Thursday and end with Sunday’s final stage at about midday. The final special stage will always form the so-called Power Stage, in which bonus points are up for grabs in the Drivers’ and CoDrivers’ Championship for the first three cars. However, the “Monte” is an exception to the rule when it comes to the itinerary: it ends with the final special stage – “Sospel – Breil-sur-Roya” – in the dark on Saturday evening. Home race for Sébastien Ogier – Gap hosts “Monte” start Home banker? Well, there can certainly be no doubting that this is a home race for one man. The Rally Monte Carlo begins in the birthplace of the reigning World Rally Champion – in Gap. The town, with a population of 40,000, hosts the opening two days of the Rally, before the WRC circus heads to Monaco. For Sébastien Ogier, this means both an extra incentive and a little extra pressure. Scores of friends and family are expected in his home town to support the Volkswagen works driver at the start of the “Monte”. Ice spies and tyre tactics – skill and flair are the order of the day in the Alps Rain in the Service Park, dry conditions at the start of the stage, snow in the middle and ice at the end – the standard madness at the Rally Monte Carlo. Selecting the right tyres for a loop consisting of three special stages is a real gamble. Winter tyres with and without spikes, soft and super-soft slicks are available to the drivers, who can call on the detailed information they receive from their trusted ice spies. Nowhere in the World Rally Championship is it more important for the weather crew to be perfectly coordi-
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nated and communicate clearly than at the legendary “Monte”. 15 special stages, over 380 kilometres, two Service Parks The Rally Monte Carlo traditionally winds its way through the French Maritime Alps and thus through the hinterland of the principality. The mother of all the stages on the 2014 rally promises to be the special stage between Vitrolles and Faye. At 49.03 kilometres, it is one of the longest on the WRC calendar. The final stage, from Sospel to Breil-sur-Roya, will also play a crucial role. Its 16.55 kilometres form the Power Stage. The fastest three cars here will earn bonus points towards the championship. The anomaly: starting at just after nine o’clock in the evening, the Power Stage at the “Monte” will take place in the dark. The Service Parks are another anomaly: the cars will be maintained in Gap on the opening two days of the Rally, with the harbour in Monaco – a stone’s throw from the famous Rascasse corner from the Formula One Grand Prix – providing the backdrop to the second Service Park on the final two days. Quotes ahead of the Rally Monte Carlo Sébastien Ogier, Volkswagen Polo R WRC #1 “Our main goal is obviously to defend the title. It is never easy to win a title, but successfully defending it is even more difficult. I am certain that the other teams will put us under pressure. However, I am confident about the new season on the back of such a successful 2013. We have made small improvements to the Polo R WRC. For example, it is now even more reliable. A new manufacturer is joining the series in 2014, in the form of Hyundai, and this will make the competition even fiercer. That is what I am really looking forward to in Monte Carlo. I am also pleased that the ‘Monte’ will start from my home town of Gap this year. That is an extra incentive for me to be the fastest come the end of the rally.” Jari-Matti Latvala, Volkswagen Polo R
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WRC #2 “For me, the start of the new season is a completely different situation to one year ago. Back then, both the team and the car were new to us. We are now familiar with everything. However, the first rally of the season in Monte Carlo is always a challenge. I will try to finish in the top five at the ‘Monte’. The Rally Monte Carlo is an extremely unusual rally. Tyres will play a major role, as the Service Park is not located in the mountains. As such, you have to speculate on what the weather will be like up there. The ‘Monte’ features 30-kilometre special stages, on which you are driving on dry asphalt for 20 kilometres and ice for the remaining ten. 20 kilometres of asphalt on spikes is just as awkward as 10 kilometres of ice on slicks. Choosing the right tyre is the biggest challenge. Do you opt for snow tyres with spikes, snow tyres without spikes, super-soft slicks or soft slicks? You have to find the perfect compromise between these four options.” Andreas Mikkelsen, Volkswagen Polo R WRC #9 “The main goal is to claim the odd podium finish in 2014. This is only my second ‘Monte’. I lined up there in 2011 and crashed out on the first special stage. This means the ‘Monte’ is a completely new experience for me. As such, I will not put all my eggs in one basket, but will take a rather cautious approach. My goal is to complete the rally and finish in the points. I did not race at the ‘Monte’ last year, so my expectations there are not as high as the rallies I drove in 2013. I would be happy to get through the Rally Monte Carlo without any mistakes this year.” Did you know ... ... the Polo R WRC completed the first special stage in its World Championship history at the Rally Monte Carlo? Sébastien Ogier caused quite a shock in winning last year’s opening stage, “Le Moulinon”. …the Rally Monte Carlo was not originally planned as a motorsport event? Back at the start of the 20th century, the residents of Monaco were looking to attract tourists to the Côte d’Azur in the winter months. It was for this reason that Prince Albert I gave the green light for the inaugural “Monte” in 1911. … the first “Monte” in 1911 started from Paris? 23 cars started out from the French capital, crossing the finish line in Monte Carlo 1,020 kilometres later. … the first winner of the “Monte” was Henri Rougier (F)? The cyclist, pilot and racing driver from Marseille crossed the line first in his Turcat-Méry 24CV.
… the first Rally Monte Carlo was not just about speed? Besides the time spent driving, a jury was also on hand to judge the elegance and comfort of the cars, as well as their condition when they reached the finish. The numbers for the Rally Monte Carlo: “15”, “17”, “18” Chassis number 15, 17 and 18 will be used at the Rally Monte Carlo for the Polo R WRCs driven by Andreas Mikkelsen, Sébastien Ogier and JariMatti Latvala. This is already the sixth rally for chassis number 15, with which Andreas Mikkelsen made his Volkswagen debut in the World Rally Championship in Portugal last season. The youngster then used the same chassis in Greece, Finland, France and Great Britain. Chassis number 17 was run solely on asphalt by Sébastien Ogier in 2013 – in Germany and France. JariMatti Latvala will take his place in chassis number 18 for the second time, having previously used it at the Rally Germany. FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), 2013 final standings Drivers’ Championship 1. Sébastien Ogier, 290 points; 2. Thierry Neuville, 176; 3. Jari-Matti Latvala, 162; 4. Mikko Hirvonen, 126; 5. Daniel Sordo, 123; 6. Mads Østberg, 102; 7. Evgeny Novikov, 69; 8. Sébastien Loeb, 68; 9. Martin Prokop, 63; 10. Andreas Mikkelsen, 50; 11. Nasser Al-Attiyah, 30; 12. Elfyn Evans, 20; 13. Robert Kubica, 18; 14. Bryan Bouffier, 10; 15. Juho Hänninen, 8; 16. Chris Atkinson, 8; 17. Jari Ketomaa, 8; 18. H a yd e n Pa d d o n , 8 ; 1 9 . M i c h a l Kosciuszko, 7; 20. Ken Block, 6; 21. Khalid Al Qassimi, 5; 22. Sepp Wiegand, 4; 23. Per-Gunnar Andersson, 4; 24. Benito Guerra, 4; 25. Henning Solberg, 4; 26. Nathan Quinn, 4; 27. Olivier Burri, 2; 28. Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, 2; 29. Yazeed Al Rajhi, 1; 30. Esapekka Lappi, 1; 31. Romain Dumas, 1; 32. Mark Higgins, 1. Manufacturers’ Championship 1. Volkswagen Motorsport, 425; 2. Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team, 280; 3. Qatar M-Sport World Rally Team, 190; 4. Qatar World Rally Team, 184; 5. Jipocar Czech National Team, 65; 6. Abu Dhabi Citroën Total World Rally Team, 63; 7. Volkswagen Motorsport II, 50; 8. Lotos Team WRC, 20.
VOLVO CARS AT THE 2014 DETROIT MOTOR SHOW: INSIDE OUT: VOLVO CARS REVEALS VERSATILE INTERIOR FOR THE CONCEPT XC COUPÉ The 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit hosts the world premiere of Volvo Car Group’s (Volvo Cars) new Concept XC Coupé – the second of three concept cars that showcase the company’s future design direction. The interior of the car is displayed on the stand in the form of a 1:1 scale hanging sculpture, making all the details and functionality of the versatile interior visible to all visitors to the stand. In common with the highly-acclaimed and award-winning Volvo Concept Coupé, Senior Vice President of Design at Volvo Cars Thomas Ingenlath and his team use the Concept XC Coupé to demonstrate the design possibilities of Volvo Cars’ new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) that will underpin all cars from Volvo Cars in the future, starting with the all-new Volvo XC90 that premieres later this year. And while the earlier Concept Coupé showcased proportions of a sleek coupé, the Volvo Concept XC Coupé has a strong connection to both an active outdoor lifestyle and Volvo Cars’ aim to offer customers a world-class safety and support package. “Enjoying a car with great power and capabilities, at the same time as you are safe and protected, gives a great feeling of joy and freedom,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Cars. The Concept XC Coupé is also presented alongside a separate interior sculpture. “We wanted to create a piece of art which also highlighted the conceptual and innovative stowage area. And to be able to show it to all stand attendees, rather than just those getting close to the car, we created the sculpture in satin white and dark glass that covers the stowage area and extreme skiing
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equipment. A true piece of art placed in a world of functional design,” said Robin Page, Director Interior Design at
Motoring News
Volvo Cars. The interior sculpture emphasizes Vol-
vo Cars’ philosophy of “Designed Around You” by focusing on how the stowage area is cleverly designed to ac-
commodate customers’ outdoor activity equipment. The sculpture shows how the designers have designed a wet and dry compartment for equipment in a modern and aesthetically clean way. “The colour scheme and modern design language illustrates our connection and influence from modern design products for outdoor activities as being produced by companies such as POC, based in Sweden,” said Thomas Ingenlath. “The part I am most proud of is creating something so unique and fresh in an industry that mostly works to quiet traditional ways of showing new products. To me this is a true piece of art.”
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