Motoring February 2017 by The Malta Independent

The Malta Independent on Sunday. February 2017

DRIVING FUN THE NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN also inside

Piedmont Road Trip

VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT DISTILLERIE BERTA

DISCOVER PIEDMONT’S

MOUNTAINS AND ROLLING HILLS

TRUE TO THE MEANING OF ITS NAME – FOOT OF THE MOUNTAIN – PIEDMONT IS A LAND OF MOUNTAINS AND ROLLING HILLS. THE REGION’S PROVINCES INCLUDE TURIN, THE REGIONAL CAPITAL, ALESSANDRIA, ASTI AND VERCELLI. A MOTOR TRIP THROUGH ITS FOODIE TOWNS AND VINE-CLAD HILLS WILL BRING YOU TO RUSTIC TRATTORIAS, DRIVES THROUGH LONG STRETCHES OF POPLARS AND OLD FARMHOUSES, ANCIENT VILLAS SURROUNDED BY BEAUTIFUL GARDENS AND MEDIEVAL CASTLES. iedmont is known for its Barolo and Barbaresco, wines made from the Nebbiolo grape that are amongst some of the most coveted wines in the world. Here truffles reign supreme. Local cooking rely on butter and lard; local gamey meats and root vegetables are slow-cooked allowing flavours to develop slowly giving a rich tasty character to Piedmontese dishes - think risotto, polenta and cheese fondue. A driving trip in this region is really the best way to enjoy and appreciate all it has to offer, enjoying the magnificent scenery along the way of sloping vineyards, savouring delicious meals, and going at your own pace. Here are some highlights.

TURIN The Province of Turin lies on the border with France and Val d'Aosta and is characterized by its varied landscapes: magnificent alpine resorts, vast

pasturelands, woods and large stretches of vineyards. In Turin itself enjoy historic cafes and elegant shops in Piazza San Carlo and Via Roma; the recently refurbished stunning Egyptian Museum and the Automobile Museum. Unique examples of religious architecture abound, such as the Renaissance Duomo, dating back to the Renaissance; and the Sindone Chapel (Shroud of Turin). Magnificent public buildings include Palazzo Carignano, Palazzo Madama and Palazzo Reale, as well as the prestigious Savoy residences. Turin is also home to the Juventus Stadiu and Juventus F.C. The hills to the south of Turin are perfect driving, offering enchanting views and expanses of vineyards and countryside.

ASTI, CUNEO AND ALESSANDRIA The three neighbouring Provinces of Asti, Cuneo, and Alessandria incorporate the Langhe and Monferrato hill region in the centre of Piedmont. The area around Asti is renowned for its cheeses, such as robiola of Roccaverano and robiola di Cocconato. Typical dishes include agnolotti, Monferrato-style potato gnocchi, ciotola di trifulau (cheese fondue with polenta and truffles) and Piedmont-style boiled meats. The region has rich limestone and sandstone deposits laid down by the retreating Adriatic some 5 million years ago and is home to some of Italy's finest red wines and some famous whites. The town of Asti is at the centre of this area and is the major city of this notable wine district. The wine most

Alessandria

Asti vineyards

famously associated with Asti worldwide is the sparkling Asti (DOCG) made solely from the moscato bianco grape. Vineyard upon vineyard litter the terrain around Asti and Alessandria producing some of the most famous wines including Barbera d’Asti, Barbera del Monferrato, Dolcetto, Cortese di Gavi, Brachetto, and Grignolino. One of the most famous events held in Asti is the Palio di Asti, in which all the old town "Rioni" and "Borghi" compete in a bare-back horse race. Originating from a victory in battle against Alba in the Middle Ages, Asti's Palio is the oldest recorded in Italy, and is held in the triangular Piazza Alfieri on the 3rd Sunday of September.

Novara, one of Europe’s leading rice producers with rows of poplar trees dividing the plain symmetrically. The countryside is varied from the summits of the Alpine to the gentle slopes of the Gattinara Gattinara Hills, covered by vines, woods and rivers and the vast plains.

VERCELLI AND NOVARA A spectacular panorama of rice paddies in the Po Valley characterize Vercelli and

Piemonte white gold the region's famous tartufo bianco

Turin

Juventus stadium

Vercelli

ASTI Palio di Asti February 2017 | motoring 03

PIEDMONT VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT > DISTILLERIA BERTA

THE BERTA FAMILY HAS BEEN PRODUCING GRAPPA SINCE 1866 AND IS REGARDED AS ONE OF THE JEWELS OF GRAPPA DISTILLERS. DISTILLERIA BERTA WAS BORN IN THE VERY HEART OF THE PIEDMONT HILLS BETWEEN MONFERATTO AND THE LANGHE. USING THE FINEST GRAPE SKINS FORM SOME OF THE FINEST VINEYARDS IN THE WORLD. THESE GRAPE SKINS ARE SENT TO THE DISTILLERY TO BE HANDLED BY THE BERTA FAMILY AND ITS COMMITTED TEAM.

landmark grappa producer based in Piedmont Berta is famous for the approachability of its grappas. The distillery lies ensconced in the gentle hills that surround Asti, nestled amidst vineyards that radiate beautiful colors as far as the eye can see. The modern state-of-the-art Roccanivo distillery owned by the Berta family at Casalotto di Mombaruzzo opened in the grape harvest of 2002, a historic vintage for this family/business and for the economic development of the Asti wine sector. Grappa is obtained through the distillation of pomace, the name given to the residues—skins, pulp and seeds— that remain after pressing the grapes for juice extraction in the winemaking process. The grappa is processed as little as possible to retain the purest flavor of the pomace. The family business’ grappa are manufactured thanks to the grapes harvested on the

SPOTLIGHT: GRAPPA ROCCANIVO, GRAPPA BRIC DEL GAIAN, GRAPPA TRE SOLI TRE.

Gianfranco and Chicco Berta in the arms of the young couple, Paolo and Lidia

surrounding land. Before being processed the grape pomace is kept moist in special hermetic containers. After distillation, the liquid is filtered out. Part goes into silvery, ceiling-high tanks where it is stored for one year. After this, it is stored in wooden barrels in the enormous wine cellar at the estate. Below lit vaulted arches lie thousands of

barriques and tonneaux. These casks of old French oak give this grappa its amber color. It will take years before the contents are ready to be bottled. Roccanivo and Tre Soli Tre, both grappas, are stored for eight years. The longest storage lasts twenty years – the time it takes for founder Paolo Berta’s Riserva to mature.

AFTER DISTILLATION, THE LIQUID IS FILTERED OUT. PART GOES INTO SILVERY, CEILING-HIGH TANKS WHERE IT IS STORED FOR ONE YEAR. AFTER THIS, IT IS STORED IN WOODEN BARRELS IN THE ENORMOUS WINE CELLAR AT THE ESTATE 04 motoring | February 2017

GRAPPA ROCCANIVO. Grape Variety: 100% Barbera. This amber grappa shows great personality with complex aromas of dark cherries, forest fruits, chocolate and vanilla. The palate offers a rich yet delicate experience of harmony and persistence. GRAPPA BRIC DEL GAIAN. Grape Variety: 100% Moscato d'Asti. This aged grappa shows complex and delicate aromas of forest fruits, vanilla with notes of grapefruit. The palate offers rich, silky flavours that reaffirm the olfactory notes. GRAPPA TRE SOLI TRE. Grape Variety: Nebbiolo da Barolo. Splendid outstanding aromas of mature

Distillerie Berta

fruits such as maraschino cherries and apricot with notes of cocoa and vanilla. The palate offers seductive undertones that reflect the aromas to create a perfectly balanced grappa. Distilleria Berta Grappa can be enjoyed locally or experienced first hand at Distilleria Berta Via Guasti, 34/36, 14046 Mombaruzzo.Tel +39 0141 739528. Locally Distilleria Berta is imported by Attard and Co and available from Sistina Wine & Co.,The Strand Gzira. Opening hours: 10am till late. TEL: 2131 4161. WEB: www.sistinawineco.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ sistinawineco Gozo Distributor: Abraham’s Supplies Co. Ltd. TEL: 2156 3231 WEB: www.abrahams.com.mt

February 2017 | motoring 05

NEW ENGINE AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

FOR RANGE ROVER SPORT

ange Rover Sport’s status as the luxury performance SUV has been strengthened with a range of enhancements for 2017 model year. The latest model features the most efficient powertrain yet, the introduction of innovative new autonomous driving technologies and greater scope for bespoke personalisation. Introduced in 2013, Range Rover Sport is a genuine Land Rover success story, delivering all the refinement and capability expected from a large SUV with the performance normally associated with a sports car. The dynamic large SUV status as the ultimate high performance SUV is underpinned by the potent 550PS Range Rover Sport SVR, which can accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds. One of the most significant additions to the 2017 model year Range Rover Sport comes under the bonnet, with the introduction of Jaguar Land Rover’s advanced 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel engine. The state-of-the-art British built engine provides enhanced fuel efficiency with emissions as low as 164g/km* and capable of a combined fuel economy of 45.6mpg, while still delivering performance in line with the outgoing 3.0-litre TDV6. The new Ingenium engine is also lighter, providing improved responses, enhanced agility and superior dynamics.

06 motoring | February 2017

information when tackling challenging terrain. The enlarged dual-view touchscreen features a new 10-inch display for greater ease-of-use and clarity and features tablet-style pinch and zoom functions. This is powered by Land Rover’s marketleading InControl Touch Pro technology, making this the most connected Range Rover Sport to date. Gerry McGovern, Land Rover’s Chief Design Officer, said: “Range Rover Sport is the ultimate performance SUV and the latest model enhances its luxury status and desirability. The design developments sit seamlessly alongside innovative new technologies, making Range Rover Sport more composed, sustainable and relevant than ever.”

EXTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS In addition to new engine technology, Land Rover has introduced a series of autonomous driving technologies to Range Rover Sport. The first-in-sector Advanced Tow Assist feature takes the stress out of manoeuvring when towing large loads. The driver can set the direction of a trailer when reversing using the Terrain Response 2 rotary dial and the vehicle will make all the necessary steering adjustments automatically. Additional autonomy technology is provided in the form of Blind Spot Assist and Intelligent Speed Limiter. Blind Spot Assist uses sensors on the vehicle to detect other road users approaching in

the driver’s blind spot. If the driver risks causing a collision during a lane change, the vehicle will autonomously countersteer to maintain its position. Intelligent Speed Limiter uses Traffic Sign Recognition technology to adjust the vehicle’s speed in response to changes in the posted speed limit. Peerless all-terrain capability remains a cornerstone of the Range Rover family and the 2017 model year Range Rover Sport includes a selection of new features. Low Traction Launch makes it easier for drivers to pull away on low-grip surfaces while the updated 4x4i menu presents all the necessary vehicle

A number of updates have been made to selected Range Rover Sport design packs for the 2017 model year. The purposeful Dynamic model has a number of exterior features finished in Gloss Black for an even more dramatic appearance, including an updated radiator grille with side vents, bonnet vents, mirror caps and bonnet and tailgate script. A red ‘Sport’ badge and matching red brake calipers also help to set Dynamic models apart. A new Bright Pack will be offered as an option on Autobiography Dynamic models. It brings a more vivid finish, with features such as Atlas Silver front grille mesh and Atlas Silver bonnet mesh.

The new BMW 5 Series Sedan Lighter, more dynamic, more economical and fully connected

he seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series Sedan will cut a sporty, elegant and stylish figure when it hits the roads in markets around the world in February 2017. Further enhanced dynamics, an unbeatable line-up of assistance systems, an unmatched degree of connectivity and a new and innovative operating system are the most important new features. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan therefore has all the tools it needs to continue the remarkable success recorded by its predecessors; around 7.9 million BMW 5 Series cars were sold across its first six generations. “The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series points the way into the future, as we have defined it with our NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy. We see technological leadership, emotionally rich products and digitalisation as essential factors in achieving success. With the expansion of our model portfolio in the large-vehicle classes, we are satisfying the wishes of many customers. I’m in no doubt that the new BMW 5 Series will set new benchmarks technologically, but also have huge emotional appeal. It remains the epitome of the business sedan,” says Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG. Superior driving pleasure and unsurpassed aerodynamics Rigorous application of the BMW EfficientLightweight lightweight design concept, with increased use of aluminium and high-strength steels, reduces the weight of the 5 Series Sedan by up to 100 kilograms from that of its predecessor. The newly designed chassis, a low centre of gravity, BMW’s hallmark even weight distribution and a lightweight body offering exceptional torsional stiffness combine a wonderfully dynamic driving experience with the long-distance comfor t for which the BMW 5 Series is renowned. Various chassis options such as Integral Active Steering, which can now be teamed with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, add fur ther talents to a dynamicsfocused overall package designed to ensure the BMW 5 Series once again stands at the top of its class. The

drag coefficient of the new, 4,935 millimetre-long BMW 5 Series Sedan (Cd = 0.22 at its most efficient) sets the benchmark in its class.

THE NEXT STEP TO AUTOMATED DRIVING A wealth of assistance systems are on hand in the new BMW 5 Series to offer the driver unbeatable suppor t – not only at critical moments but also in less demanding situations at the wheel, such as traffic jams, slow-moving traffic and monotonous stretches of motorway. To this end, it is fitted as standard with a stereo camera, which teams up with optional radar and ultrasound sensors to monitor the area around the car. New features in the BMW 5 Series alongside the evasion aid and Crossing traffic warning are the Lane Change Assistant and Lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection. The latter keeps an eye on the lane markings and the area around the

car, and actively helps the driver to avoid looming collisions by applying corrective steering inputs. The BMW 5 Series also takes another step towards automated driving with extended functions for the optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) system and Steering and lane control assistant. These include adoption of speed restrictions, which drivers can select as par t of the Speed Limit Assist option. Drivers can confirm adoption of a speed restriction and make an adjustment of +/– 15 km/h / 9 mph in the system settings. From rest to 210 km/h (130 mph) the car assists the driver with distance-keeping, accelerating, braking and lane control. This increases comfort significantly – in particular at low speeds and in slow-moving traffic on clogged up motorway sections. The intelligent Auto Start Stop function now adjusts its responses to the route and traffic conditions and therefore offers even greater driving comfort.

February 2017 | motoring 07

AROUND THE WORLDIN80DAYS

VOYAGE THROUGH AN ERA OF RECORDS

BMW GROUP CLASSIC AND THE GRAND HOTEL VILLA D’ESTE ARE PRESENTING THE WORLD’S MOST EXCLUSIVE AND TRADITIONAL BEAUTY CONTEST FOR HISTORIC AUTOMOBILES AND MOTORCYCLES ON THE SHORES OF LAKE COMO FROM 26TH TO 28TH MAY 2017. THE MOTTO OF THIS YEAR’S EVENT IS “AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS – VOYAGE THROUGH AN ERA OF RECORDS” AN AUCTION BY RM SOTHEBY’S WILL ONCE AGAIN BE HELD IN THE GROUNDS OF VILLA ERBA.

t the end of the 19th century, Jules Verne was already dreaming about travelling right round the earth. And he imagined doing so in what seemed at that time to be an incredibly short period of time – 80 days. According to his famous novel, a lot of people set off on this journey by land, by sea and by air. And a few actually achieved their dream on four wheels. Five particularly impressive tales provide an appropriate backdrop for this year’s motto.

THE WORLD’S FIRST AUTOMOBILE RACE As early as 1908, 18 bold men staged the first automobile race around the world. In 1908, six teams of three started out on the biggest adventure of their time from Times Square in New York. One Italian, one German, one American and three French automobiles lined up at the start. Today, hardly anybody knows their model names: Züst, Protos, Thomas Flyer, De Dion, Sizaire-Naudin and Motobloc. Their epic journey took them from New York to San Francisco and Seattle, and on to Alaska. After a journey by sea, they travelled via Vladivostok, Moscow and Berlin to Paris. Since there were virtually no roads, the adventurers drove some of the way along the tracks of the TransSiberian Railway. And because there were virtually no petrol stations, they carried up to 600 litres of fuel on board. After 166 days, the German team with driver Hans Koeppen was the first car to arrive in Paris. Their heavy roadster from automotive factory Protos located in Berlin-Reinickendorf weighed 2.5 tons, with 30 hp and 4.5 litres displacement. They were four days ahead of the Americans and almost two months ahead of the Züst from Italy. But they failed to win the race despite this achievement. They received a retrospective 15 day penalty because they travelled 150 kilometres of the journey in North America by train owing to a defect.

FRÄULEIN STINNES’ FEELING FOR MUD Cleonore Stinnes – the first woman to drive around the world in an Adler Standard 6 in 1927 – was confronted with even greater deprivations. She went on a journey that lasted 25 months and took her through icy mountain regions, hot deserts and along seemingly endless stretches of muddy trails. The young lady of 26 years 08 motoring | February 2017

America, Africa and Canada, and is now on the return journey to her home country. She wants to get back in Berlin in April, shortly before her 80th birthday. That will undoubtedly be celebrated a under the motto “Round the World at 80”.

ON TOUR ROUND THE WORLD FOR THE PAST 17 YEARS

Fräulein Stinnes

Heidi Hetzer

frequently had to extract the Adler from the mud using her own muscle power. On her trip through 23 countries, the daughter of industrialist Hugo Stinnes had to overcome bandits, wolves and storms. “Fräulein Stinnes must be made of steel,” remarked her last remaining co-driver, her cameraman and subsequent husband Carl-Axel Söderström. In the Andes, they both came near to death when they lost their way in an impassable part of Peru and had to get along without any water or food. However, everything came good in the end – after 46,758 kilometres, the intrepid pair drove into Berlin on 24th June 1929.

world costs – I will take half ”. She sold her automobile business and started out at the venerable age of 76 years on the greatest adventure of her life, in the company of a Hudson Great Eight Coach (eight cylinders, 60 hp). She has since turned 79 years and named the car “Hudo” (because the previous owner was called Udo) and this automobile is older than she is: It was built in 1930. She also had a tough-guy on board as a co-driver, protector and mechanic – after all, you never know what’s going to happen. But he soon threw in the towel as the co-driver for the redoubtable lady from Berlin. And several of his replacements also failed to stay the course. But Heidi did not allow herself to be distracted, she solved every technical and bureaucratic problem and is continuing her journey round the world, even after treatment for cancer. She has now passed through 33 countries, travelling across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, South

HEIDI HETZER – ROUND THE WORLD AT 80 Since 2014, former rally driver and Berlin business woman Heidi Hetzer has been following in the tracks of Cleonore Stinnes. Her motto is: “Whatever the

The Zapp family is on quite a different type of world trip. The married couple and their Graham-Paige (year of manufacture 1928) have been travelling since the year 2000. Herman and Candelaria Zapp started out together from their homeland in Argentina for Alaska, planning to complete the journey over a period of six months. But those six months have meanwhile turned into 17 years. And they are still on the move. Two Zapps have now become six. Their four children (16, 11, 9, 7) all came into the world on the journey, each of them in a different country. As a matter of interest, Herman Zapp was given the automobile by his grandfather, with the condition never to drive at more than 40 miles an hour (67 km/h). The globetrotters have kept to this promise until today. It is therefore going to take a while before the sextet has driven the 89-year-old veteran car through all the countries on their list.

THE CENTENARIAN WHICH RETURNED HOME AND...

Even older than the Graham-Paige family car is the vehicle which pensioners Dirk and Trudy Regter have been driving round the world since 2012. Their Model T Ford – the world’s first production-line automobile – rolled off the first assembly line in the world 97 years before they started their world tour. On their first trip, the couple drove more than 22,000 kilometres from Holland to Cape Town. In 2013, the elderly Ford motored another 28,000 kilometres through its home country in North America. In 2014, they covered a further 26,000 kilometres in South America. Everything went swimmingly on even the most adventurous roads. Then shortly before its 100th birthday, the Model T ran into trouble. When they were on a diversion to their home country, an SUV caused a lot of damage to the veteran car. But the two Dutch drivers refused to give up and they were soon back on the road. The next targets are New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia and India. The long journey round the world will come to an end with a journey from the mountain tops right down to sea level – from the roof of the world in the Himalayas back to the flatlands of Holland.

The 1908 New York to Paris Race: Cars lined up for the start. In this photo from right to left: De Dion-Bouton (in front), Protos, Motobloc

The Zapp family in their 1928 Graham-Paige

The De Dion-Bouton car at Utica in the 1908 Race

Hans Koeppen in the Protos race car before the 1908 New York to Paris Race

Stinnes and the Swedish cameraman Carl-Axel Sรถderstrรถm with Peruvian helpers in front of the Adler February 2017 | motoring 09

Retromobile 2017 poster Original Bond car Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger

THE CLASSIC CAR TRUST AT RÉTROMOBILE 2017

THE CARS OF SIR DAVID BROWN ASTON MARTIN DB, 1947 – 2017

ir David Brown acquired Aston Martin 70 years ago. To commemorate the birth of the British sports car maker’s legendary “DB” era, The Classic Car Trust hosted a special exhibition of the most iconic DBs at Rétromobile 2017. The headliners were an original Bond car, a specially customized Aston Martin DB5, and a rarely seen design classic, the Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato. “Both the Bond car and the Zagato

Aston Martin DB4 GT

perfectly epitomize the understatement and excitement provided by Aston Martin DBs. While the DB5 featured in 1964’s Goldfinger may be the most important brand ambassador, the rare DB4 GT Zagato embodies the iconic status of DBs especially amongst classic car collectors,” explained Beat Roos, founder member of Aston Martin Heritage. “The cars displayed at this special exhibition – from the DB1 to the DBS V8 – form the most exclusive line-up of DBs ever shown at an event like Rétromobile 2017.” The special exhibition was initiated by The Classic Car Trust, Beat Roos and Eric Le Moine with additional support from Hagerty Insurance, Roos Engineering Ltd., Emil Frey Classics and Verkehrshaus Luzern. The Aston Martin DBs on show, which covered the period between 1948 and the early 1970s, have been provided by classic car collectors from all over Europe. “We’re very excited that the community of classic car collectors has so willingly helped us make this highlight of the classic car year into a reality. Each car bears impressive

Booth of The iconic cars of Sir David Brown

testimony to the automotive heritage created by David Brown. The Classic Car Trust is honored to be able to host the exhibition that brings them all together at Rétromobile 2017,” says Fritz Kaiser, classic car collector and

founding chairman of The Classic Car Trust.

EXHIBITION INFO Rétromobile is one of the leading classic car shows in Europe. It takes place every February at Parc des Expositions, Porte de Versailles in Paris (France).

THE CARS DISPLAYED

AM-DB5-Bond Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Bond car at the booth of The Classic Car Trust 10 motoring | February 2017

•1949 Aston Martin two-liter (DB1) • 1953 Aston Martin DB2 • 1955 Aston Martin DB3S • 1956 Aston Martin DB2/4 mkII • 1963 Aston Martin DB4 Convertible • 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT Saloon • 1963 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato • 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Saloon • 1964 Aston Martin DB5 Convertible • 1966 Aston Martin DB6 Saloon • 1971 Aston Martin DBSFI • 1971 Aston Martin DBS V8 • 1964 Aston Martin DB5 (James Bond car) • 1961 Volvo Aston Martin Prototype DP208 • 1966 David Brown Tractor 990

TEST DRIVE TIPS STEERING, BRAKES AND GEARS

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TEST DRIVE, BY PAUL VELLA TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, RMF. A thorough test drive is vital and main dealers might even be prepared to let you test drive a new car for an extended time. If you're buying a second–hand car, the test drive is even more important and your main opportunity to make sure everything is in good working order. You should take your time on any test drive, and try to allow at least half an hour with driving on all kinds of roads. Use the test drive as an opportunity to make sure that you are comfortable while driving and that there are no awkward blind spots, to make sure that you can see the instruments clearly and reach the controls easily, that the car reacts well to changes in speed, etc.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR? ENGINE & SUSPENSION The engine should be cold before you start so you should feel the bonnet. If it's warm, the seller could be trying to hide a starting problem. Check for signs of excessive smoke when you start the car and when you're driving. The engine should be quiet and pull smoothly.

IF YOU’RE BUYING A FAMILY CAR THEN TAKE YOUR CHILDREN WITH YOU – IT’S BETTER TO HEAR THEIR OBJECTIONS BEFORE YOU BUY, RATHER THAN EVERY TIME YOU TAKE THEM OUT.

Steering should be responsive with no vibration or 'free play'. Brakes should give confidence and stop the car in a straight line. With regards to clutch and gears check that you can engage all gears smoothly without crunching. If the clutch doesn't start 'biting' until the pedal has nearly reached the top, the clutch could be worn and may need to be changed.

FAMILY If you're buying a family car then take your children with you – it's better to hear their objections before you buy, rather than every time you take them out.

ELECTRIC CARS With electric cars there are two aspects that need special consideration – range and charging time. Disappointing fuel consumption from a new petrol or diesel car - compared with official figures - means only more frequent visits to a filling station. But an electric car that doesn't live up to range expectations could leave you walking the last few miles home from work every evening. Things to consider include if you can you get to work and back on a single charge – or if can you charge it enough while you're at work to make the return journey? If you only make shorter journeys how often are you likely to have to recharge – and what would be the consequence of forgetting to plug the car in one night? You will also need to find out where public charging points are located – particularly in and on the way to places you might visit frequently. Cold weather, use of electrical items such as lights, airconditions and heaters, and carrying loads/passengers will all reduce the car's range on a full charge as will a heavy right foot. To get a good idea of the car's true range drive as you intend to drive normally, and if you normally carry an extra passenger consider taking them on the test drive with you. RMF recommends that if you intend to purchase a second hand vehicle, always have it looked by a qualified experienced mechanic. RMF members can have this service for free. Non-members can also have this service available for a reasonable fee. (Terms & Conditions apply) February 2017 | motoring 11

THE MOLSHEIM DREAM FACTORY – A VISIT TO THE PRODUCTION FACILITY FOR THE BUGATTI CHIRON • SERIES PRODUCTION OF THE CHIRON IN MOLSHEIM GATHERS PACE • THE FIRST VEHICLES ARE TO BE DELIVERED TO CUSTOMERS IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2017 • UP TO 70 CHIRONS ARE TO BE BUILT IN THE BUGATTI ATELIER IN 2017 • ON AVERAGE, SIX MONTHS PASS BETWEEN START OF PRODUCTION AND DELIVERY • 20 EMPLOYEES ASSEMBLE THE CHIRON FROM OVER 1,800 INDIVIDUAL PARTS IN THE ATELIER • UNLIMITED CUSTOMISING OPPORTUNITIES WITH RESPECT TO MATERIALS AND COLOURS • THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL, FASTEST, MOST LUXURIOUS AND MOST EXCLUSIVE PRODUCTION SUPER SPORTS CAR IS COMPLETELY HAND-BUILT AND IS SUBJECT TO THE MOST STRINGENT QUALITY CONTROLS

eries production of the Bugatti Chiron is rapidly gathering pace. Currently, 12 super sports cars are taking shape in the French luxury brand’s production facility, the so called “Atelier” at the company’s headquarters. It is planned to deliver the first vehicles to customers in the first quarter of 2017 and to build up to 70 of these cars this year. On average, about six months pass between the start of production and the delivery of a Chiron. 20 employees in the Atelier assemble the world’s most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive production super sports car from more than 1,800 individual parts, working solely by hand. The Chiron is subjected to the most stringent acceptance tests and quality controls before it is delivered to the customer. Many modifications to the facility at Molsheim were made for the assembly of the 1,500 PS super sports car to take account of its higher performance and the generally more complex nature of the new product and its production process. At its facility in Molsheim in an idyllic location in Alsace, which has been the home of the marque since it was founded in 1909, Bugatti is making automobile dreams come true with the Chiron. Before customers can take delivery of their new Chiron, there is a lot to do.The first step is the configuration of the vehicle, which is completed by the customer together with a designer from Bugatti. Each Bugatti is unique and is manufactured in accordance with the customer’s personal wishes.This is why personalising is a top priority for Bugatti. 23 topcoat colours and eight carbon variants form the basic range for the exterior. In the interior, customers can 12 motoring | February 2017

choose from leather in 31 different colours or Alcantara in eight colours, as well as 30 stitching, 18 carpet and 11 belt colours. In addition to this basic range, thousands of other colours are possible. And in addition to that, individual colours may even be created to match a favourite handbag or the label on a customer’s preferred brand of mineral water.There are also many other design options such as logos or initials on the bottom of the rear spoiler or embroidery on the headrest and leather inlays on the central console. With its customising program “La Maison Pur Sang“, Bugatti is virtually in a position to meet a customer’s every wish – provided that installation in a super sports car is technically feasible and meets Bugatti’s high quality requirements. Only when the customer has signed off the configuration does production planning start.The many small wheels of a complex process that runs to a strict time schedule are then set in motion. At the end of this process, a Chiron leaves the Atelier in Molsheim. Normally, a Chiron takes about

nine months for this journey from configuration through to delivery – with an average degree of customising.The more unusual a customer’s wishes in terms of materials, colours or other details are, the more time will be required. When a production slot has been assigned to a customer’s vehicle, the parts that are needed are ordered. From now on, the countdown has started and it will take about six months up to the delivery of the car. Now, Bugatti’s suppliers, who are located throughout Europe, work hard to deliver the parts that are needed to Molsheim in time for assembly. One month before the start of production in Molsheim, the bodyshell is assembled with the monocoque and chassis substructure for the first time to ensure that everything fits together perfectly. Each part is assigned a kit number and is then transferred to the paint shop. It takes about three weeks to apply the various coats of paint. In the case of visible carbon fibre, a field in which Bugatti is the market leader in terms of production

quality and diversity of colours, six layers are required. For the top coat, up to eight layers may be needed depending on whether the finish that has been ordered is uni, metallic or pearlescent.The process is so time-consuming because all layers are applied by hand and each individual coat needs to be sanded down and polished before work can start on the next coat. Then the starting signal is given for the assembly of the Chiron in Molsheim. Christophe Piochon, Member of the Bugatti Board of Management responsible for Production and Logistics, watches over production, making sure that all processes run smoothly and there are no hitches. “Here in Molsheim, we have a small factory with a small warehouse. Neither our equipment nor our procedures can be compared with those of other car plants,” says the 40-year-old mechanical engineer, who worked in quality assurance with the Volkswagen Group before joining Bugatti. “’Just-in-time’ has a very special dimension for Bugatti,” he adds.

THE ADVENTURER GLOBAL LAUNCH CAMPAIGN FOR THE NEW MINI COUNTRYMAN ADD STORIES: FOCUSING ON EXPERIENCES. FIRST-EVER MINI PLUG-INHYBRID

et out and experience new things – and make memories. “ADD STORIES” presents the new MINI Countryman as an adventurer, a bridge-builder between town and country, a trailblazer for new impressions and fresh stories off the beaten track.The integrated campaign will accompany the new MINI Countryman from the start of communications in October 2016 to market launch from February 2017 onwards. The central point of the campaign is the realisation that experiences are the new status symbol of a young urban target group. The new MINI Countryman makes these experiences possible – and takes its passengers along for the ride.The “ADD STORIES” slogan calls on viewers to go out and try new things. Every mile travelled on new roads provides new impressions and stories for sharing with friends and family. With the premiere of the second generation of the MINI Countryman, the long-standing

British brand is continuing its advance into the premium compact segment.The new MINI Countryman is the largest, most versatile model in the brand’s 57year history. Its complete redevelopment goes hand in hand with significant enhancements in spaciousness, functionality, sportiness and premium features. The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 transforms typical MINI driving fun into a fascinating sustainable experience. It is the first MINI model with a plug-in hybrid drive train for pure electric, locally emission-free mobility. “Getting out and discovering the world has a whole new value for our target group,” explained Marc Lengning, head of MINI Brand Management. “The MINI Countryman brings a new dimension to the urban MINI brand – because city living is also about getting out of town for the weekend and coming back with new experiences and stories.” In an integrated approach, “ADD STORIES” will supply all channels with content, but will focus on digital marketing and two films in particular: “CityCountry” is a 60-

second film that takes the viewer on a journey in the new MINI Countryman to find adventure and unique moments; the second film, “Storyteller”, which forms an additional focal point, underlines the campaign’s core message. MINI uses digital content not only to lengthen the films, but also to engage in dialogue with its fans and customers. With posts, banners and various types of online ads, MINI tailors the content to suit the target audience. “ADD STORIES” uses strong visual storytelling to highlight the optimised space and enhanced product substance of the MINI Countryman in in various feature films.The films showcase product features such as the MINI Picnic Bench, a cushion that folds out from the hatch area for comfortable outdoor seating; the central instrument, which uses touchscreen functionality; or the MINI Find Mate.The off-road

capabilities of the MINI Countryman are also highlighted. An additional seven-minute product film introduces the whole vehicle in full detail. In the print sector, MINI will focus on wide-reach publications. The print motif places the new MINI Countryman in its natural environment, off the beaten track and outside the city. MINI is also working with strong partners who share the same enthusiasm for unique experiences: for example, with Channel Islands, the Californian firm that already helped develop the MINI Surfboard, to create powerful film and photo content. Another partner is Japanese photography and technology brand Nikon. MINI and Nikon will work together on various marketing activities for the MINI Countryman launch in a global partnership. Nikon is using the cooperation to promote its new KeyMission 360.The action

camera enables seamless 360°shots in 4K UHD quality in a completely new form.The cooperation is a perfect fit: Nikon’s KeyMission and the new MINI Countryman share the same enthusiasm for adventure, for fresh new experiences and unspoiled nature. MINI is already exclusively using the KeyMission 360 in its global communications for the MINI Countryman. Additional joint content productions for various on and offline channels will follow over the course of the “ADD STORIES” campaign and the Nikon KeyMission 360 launch campaign. The new MINI Countryman will make its world debut on 18 November 2016 at the Los Angeles Auto Show.The European market launch is scheduled for February 2017. From March 2017, the new MINI Countryman will also be conquering streets and off-roads outside of Europe.

HOLLYWOOD’S HOTTEST MOTORS HPI REVEALS WHAT ICONIC MOVIE CARS COULD BE WORTH TODAY

As the annual Oscar winners are announced in Hollywood on Sunday 26 February, automotive experts, hpi has revealed its list of the most iconic cars to star on the silver screen and what they could be worth today. Following a poll amongst its team of motoring editors, hpi has identified the top 10 most iconic movie cars: 10) 1977/2009 Chevrolet Camaro Bumblebee from Transformers 9) 1970 Dodge Charger - Vin Diesel's car in The Fast & the Furious 8) 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 Fastback as seen in Bullitt 7) 1980 Lamborghini Countach LP 4005 as seen in Cannonball Run 6) 1966 Alfa Romeo 1600 Spider Duetto as seen in The Graduate 5) 1968 Austin Mk I Mini Cooper S - as seen in The Italian Job 4) 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder -

Ferris Bueller's Day Off 3) 1963 Aston Martin DB5 - as seen in various James Bond movies 2) 1963 Model 117 VW Type 1 Beetle - as seen in Walt Disney’s Herbie movies 1) 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 - as seen in the Back to the Future trilogy As a collection, the cars would have been worth a total of £30,362.00 based on RRP in their year of manufacture with the Ferrari from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off valued at £6,326.00 in 1961. James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 was worth £4,175.00 in 1963, and featured in Goldfinger and Thunderball in 1964 and 1965 respectively as well as later Bond’s Goldeneye,Tomorrow Never Dies, Casino Royale, Skyfall and Spectre. At today’s estimated retail values the Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder would fetch approx. £1.75m and the Aston Martin DB5, a cool £1m.The 1980 Lamborghini Countach LP 4005 would be worth £275k.

In total, at today’s retail average estimated value the entire collection would pull in £3,002,500.00 – fetching a massive 99 times return on the original investment of £30,362.00.* Philip Nothard, consumer and retail editor at hpi said: “We thought it would be fun to come up with a definitive list of the most iconic cars to feature in the movies from the past fifty years and look at their values then and what they’d be worth now. Some of the cars featured are bona fide classics

and worth a significant amount now – warranting pride of place amongst any car collection.The DeLorean from Back to the Future was deemed as the most iconic and interestingly it was one of the most expensive at the time retailing at just over £10k. It would fetch around £35k at current market values, considerably more if fitted with a Flux Capacitor!” hpi recently launched a vehicle valuations service giving consumers the ability to buy and sell cars with utmost confidence, offering them the inside view on the total cost of ownership of a vehicle during its lifespan along with precise depreciation figures. The hpi valuations tool www.hpivaluations.com is aimed at consumers buying and selling cars in the used car market and minimises the risks that can see consumers paying over the odds or not getting the best-asking price.

February 2017 | motoring 13

SAFE AND EFFICENT CAR REPAIRS

rs G had her car repaired by a repairer recommended to her by a friend, after the car's rear body panel and door had been badly damaged in an accident. She had been assured by the repairer that the quality of the workmanship would be as good as that provided by the manufacturer approved repairer. Unfortunately, Mrs G was not at all happy with the quality of the repair work and she complained to the repairer as additional damage had appeared in the form of scratch marks that had not been present before the car went in for repair. She also reported this to her insurers who were meant to pay for the repairs, and although they arranged for the repairer to carry out further remedial work, the scratch marks were still evident when the car was returned to her. In the meantime her insurers also established that the paint used for the re-spray was not of the approved standard, and the repairer did not have the required paint bake oven which resulted in defects appearing in the paintwork. The car had to be completely re-sprayed by another repairer at an additional cost and at greater inconvenience to Mrs G. Mr C had an accident while driving home from work one evening. His car was badly damaged and the necessary repair work was carried out by a repairer he had used before. However, when the car was returned to him, Mr C complained that the brakes and clutch appeared to be faulty. The insurers were asked to intervene and it was suspected that this was the result of damage caused while the car was being repaired. It was difficult to produce firm evidence of this, but the insurer agreed to pay for additional repair work, as a gesture of goodwill. However the problems persisted and Mr C had by then lost faith in the repairer's ability to do the work to an acceptable standard. The car had to be taken to another repairer to get it back to the condition it had been in before the accident. Since the insurers had already paid twice for the repairs Mr C had to pay the costs of the second repairer out of his own pocket. 14 motoring | February 2017

These are two real life cases that a motor insurer had to handle recently, and they were not by any means rare ones. These type of problems arise, most often, not because the repairer is trying to cheat the client or because of incompetence, but more commonly because of a lack of knowledge on the latest methods of repairs and the lack of the proper equipment required. There is no doubt that over the last twenty years cars have become more and more technologically advanced, as manufacturers try to make them more comfortable, more fuel efficient and even safer for passengers in the case of a collision. Many cars now contain sensors that trigger safety feature such as airbags, and are built using high strength steel in certain sections, to protect passengers against the dangers of an impact. If the repairer is not knowledgeable about the correct repair method, does not possess the required tools and equipment, or uses them incorrectly, the car’s safety features can be seriously compromised. This is, of course, something that any car owner should be very concerned about. Aside from safety issues, the car owner can also end up being inconvenienced in having to spend more time without the car as repairs take longer than necessary, or by having to take the car back in, sometimes more than once, for additional or remedial repairs. To top it all there is also the risk that if repairs are not carried out correctly, the resale value of the car is lowered. A potential purchaser may be able to identify the effect of incorrect or unsuitable repair methods and may end up not buying the car of offering a much lower price than normal. If your car is damaged in an accident, even if the damage appears to be minor, you need to make sure that you make the right choice of repairer. This is where your insurer can assist you by referring you to a repairer that has been QVR certified. What does this mean? For a repairer to be certified, he must undergo a rigorous inspection by

IF YOUR CAR IS DAMAGED IN AN ACCIDENT, EVEN IF THE DAMAGE APPEARS TO BE MINOR, YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE THAT YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE OF REPAIRER. THIS IS WHERE YOUR INSURER CAN ASSIST YOU BY REFERRING YOU TO A REPAIRER THAT HAS BEEN QVR CERTIFIED.

international experts, who then grade the repairer according the type of damage he is equipped to handle and the services he can offer. The repairer is also provided with a list of recommendations of how he can improve his operation and achieve a higher grading. Inspections are carried out annually and a repairer can be upgraded or downgraded. It is therefore in the repairer’s interest to maintain a high standard as he cannot afford to lose the QVR certification or to be downgraded. This certification and grading is therefore vital for a car owner to be able to identify the right repairer without having to be knowledgeable about car repairs. Where can this information be obtained from? The QVR project has a webpage http://www.qvr.com.mt which includes a searchable list of certified repairers, showing their grading, aside from all the information about the project. Your insurer will of course assist you in identifying the degree of damage your car has incurred, and can guide you as to the type of repairer you should be looking for. Some repairers are, for instance, able to handle structural damages to the vehicles, while others may not be equipped to do so. Another example is that some repairers may offer spray painting, others do not and have to subcontract this work. The repair industry is required to keep pace with the ongoing technological advances in car manufacturing as it is the only way that repairs can be carried safely and efficiently, with a minimum inconvenience to the car owner and without the risk of de-valuing the car’s resale price. The QVR project has been designed to tackle all this and to make it easier for car owners to choose the right repairer. It makes sense therefore to listen to your insurer and follow his advice when making this important choice. Francis Valletta General Manager, Motor Insurance Division, GasanMamo Insurance Ltd.

NEW EDITION MODELS FROM MERCEDES-AMG

MORE DRIVING PERFORMANCE FOR INDIVIDUALISTS

ffalterbach. The 50 Years of Driving Performance anniversary is being used by Mercedes-AMG as the ideal occasion to add the new AMG GT C Roadster* Edition 50 as a further exclusive choice in the offering from the AMG GT family. Furthermore, Mercedes-AMG is offering the C 63 Cabriolet** and C 63 S Cabriolet** Ocean Blue Edition (not available for UK market) plus C 43 4MATIC Coupé*** and C 43 4MATIC Cabriolet**** Night Edition (not available for UK market) special models to provide even more variety for customers seeking that special something. All Editions combine extended ranges of equipment with special design features, thus making their own individual mark. The sports car and performance brand from Affalterbach is using three selected special models to reassert the standard it has set itself to offer customers maximum individuality and exclusivity. “2016 was the most successful year so far in our company history. We shall be using this momentum to fill even more customers with enthusiasm for Mercedes-AMG in our anniversary year, 2017. We shall be supported in this by our new Editions, which we are presenting at the Geneva Motor Show. So we can now offer our customers an even wider choice of individual performance models,” explained Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

16 motoring | February 2017

EXCLUSIVE EQUIPMENT PACKAGE: AMG GT C ROADSTER EDITION 50

The new AMG GT C Roadster is, like the new AMG GT C, also available as an exclusively equipped Edition 50 special model in a limited quantity of 500 cars worldwide. It marks the landmark year of the company, which was founded in 1967 and celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2017. At first glance the Edition 50 can be recognised by the two special paint finishes in designo graphite grey magno or designo cashmere white magno. Black chrome accents deliver a unique look. They are applied to the side skirt trim, the front splitter, the trim strips in the air intakes of the Panamericana grille, the fins on the side air outlets in the front wings, the trim on the rear diffuser and the exhaust tailpipe trim elements. The surface of the cross-spoke AMG forged wheels has been harmonised with the black chrome elements of the exterior. The interior is marked by a contrast between black and silver. This colour scheme is followed not only by the trim in STYLE Exclusive nappa leather in silver pearl/black with grey diamondpatterned contrasting topstitching, but also by the black AMG Performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfibre with grey contrasting topstitching, 12 o'clock mark in silver pearl, "Edition 50" lettering plus a note on the limitation.

To emphasise the sporty character, the Edition comes as standard with the AMG Interior Night package, which includes steering wheel spokes, shift paddles and door sill panels in black. The interplay between light and dark is further accentuated by silver seat belts and black chrome trim. The head restraint of the AMG Performance seat is embossed with "GT Edition 50".

C 43 4MATIC COUPÉ AND CABRIOLET NIGHT EDITION (NOT AVAILABLE FOR UK MARKET) On the Night Edition for the C 43 4MATIC Coupé and Cabriolet black details add fine flourishes. So for the first

time the cabriolet too is available with black exterior details. The diamond radiator grille sports black dots. The trim strips on the front splitter, on the rear apron and the side skirts are also painted in black. The same applies to the spoiler lip on the boot lid and the tailpipe trim elements on the exhaust system. The overall impression is influenced by the 19-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, which are painted in matt black for the first time and feature high-sheen rims as a contrast. The Edition theme continues in the interior. The rim of the Performance steering wheel, in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre, while its flattened bottom section is also in black, and a badge on the centre console flags up the Night Edition.