Motoring September 2016 by The Malta Independent

The Malta Independent on Sunday. September 2016

SPORTY GIULIETTA also inside Australia motor trip

Barossa vineyard spotlight Langmeil

EXPLORING BAROSSA VALLEY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

THE BAROSSA VALLEY LOCATED 60KM NORTHEAST OF ADELAIDE, IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S GREAT WINE REGIONS, RENOWNED FOR ITS FOOD AND WINE, CULTURAL EXPERIENCES AND EASY-GOING LIFESTYLE. he area encompasses towns such as Tanunda, Angaston and Lyndoch. The stone cottages and Lutheran churches throughout the region are testament to a 19th-century wave of German settlers. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate and 170 years’ worth of European settlers exerting their influence over the grapes and cuisine on offer, you can’t help but get into the spirit of the good life.

walk. Bethany is also home to a number of very established wineries.

TANUNDA While today Tanunda (8km northeast of Bathany) is the cosmopolitan heart of the Barossa, it started life far more humbly as the tiny settlement of Langmeil located on the banks of the North Para River, to the north of the present-day town. Langmeil (‘Long Mile’) was settled in 1843 with a school house as their first public building followed soon after by the Langmeil Church. As the settlement grew and prospered it joined with, and was eventually incorporated into, the town of Tanunda. Visitors to Tanunda can experience a whole cross section of the Barossa here, with an ever-growing cluster of cafes, restaurants, butchers, bakeries and cellar doors providing a glimpse into the Barossa’ famous food and wine offering.

HERITAGE The heritage and history of the Barossa stretch back into nineteenth century Europe when an uncompromisingly devout Lutheran Pastor named Kavel befriended George Fife Angas, an entrepreneurial Scottish industrialist who had recently come into possession of vast tracts of land in the newly founded South Australia. Together they paved the way for the migration of the founding families of the Barossa. These founding Barossans were lit by the light of God who, they believed, had delivered them to a promised land of plenty. Their industriousness, devotion and unfailing belief in community found expression in their new home and delivered into the 21st century a region unlike any other in Australia. You can see it in the celebrations and festivals that bring the whole region together, in the abundant food culture and in the rich and diverse arts community. Reflecting its European heritage, the Barossa consists of a patchwork of towns, villages and hamlets, each with its own special charm, from the beautifully preserved German hueffendorf village of Bethany to the old English charm of Angaston.

Bethany

Chateau Tanunda

LYNDOCH On 13 December 1837, Colonel William Light camped in the vicinity of the Kies Wines cellar door and Burge Family Winemakers and made a sketch of the area. He named it Lynedoch Vale after his esteemed friend Lord Lynedoch who was his captain in the Battle of Barossa in 1811. With a population of 1,909 residents, Lyndoch (60km northeast of Adeliade) retains the feel of a small country town and the main street offers quirky shops, a butcher and traditional German bakery, great coffee and local produce. Lyndoch is colloquially known as ‘The cool end of the Barossa’ with a variety of wineries nearby. The Rose Garden at Lyndoch Hill, part of the Barossa Chateau estate, is a mecca for rose lovers from around the world. When it was opened in 2002 by Queen Elizabeth

Chateau Yaldara, Lyndoch

II, it was the largest collection of roses in the Southern Hemisphere.

BETHANY Founded in 1842 Bethany (just 16km northeast Lyndoch) is the Barossa’s oldest settlement and a village sealed in time. Home to 300, the focal point of this tightknit community remains the Herberge Christi Lutheran Church.The Barossa Vintage Festival is a fantastic time to visit, with the church hosting a biennial Step Back in Time event showcasing heritage farm equipment and homemaking skills such as butter churning and traditional Barossan recipes.Throughout the rest of the year, visitors can learn about the history of this unique village by following the Bethany Heritage Trail, which highlights 22 locations of interest along a 5km return

ANGASTON Angaston (10 km east of Tanunda) is a charming, bustling village of 2,000 people which today still proudly displays a unique, English-influenced character. It was named after one of South Australia’s founders, George Fife Angas, who sponsored many of the region’s early German Settlers. Home to the oldest public building in the Barossa and replete with beautiful examples of classic 19th century architecture. Angaston is also a rambling food lover’s paradise, with some of the Barossa’s finest produce on display.The Barossa Farmers’ Market is an absolute must-see experience while a gentle stroll down Angaston’s elegant main street will reward you with vibrant cafés, homemade preserves and a variety of lunch options.

Barossa Brauhaus Hotel, Angaston September 2016 | motoring 03

AUSTRALIAN SPOTLIGHT, BAROSSA VALLEY> LANGMEIL

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED, LANGMEIL IS THE HOME TO WHAT IS BELIEVED TO BE THE BAROSSA AND AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST KNOWN SURVIVING VINEYARD PLANTED TO SHIRAZ IN 1843, FROM WHERE THE ICONIC FREEDOM 1843 SHIRAZ HAILS. LANGMEIL HAS HAD CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS AND HAS BEEN AWARDED 5 STARS IN THE HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION PLACING IT IN THE TOP 5% OF PREMIUM AUSTRALIAN PRODUCERS. WITHOUT CONTRADICTION, LANGMEIL WINES ARE ‘CUTTING EDGE OLD SCHOOL’ QUALITY BAROSSA WINE.

ith a history dating back to 1842, Langmeil Winery is one of a few places where the blend of Barossa’s cultural beginnings with world-class winemaking can truly be experienced. Pioneer Christian Auricht first settled the trading site of Langmeil where he established what is understood to be the world’s oldest surviving shiraz vineyard, believed to be planted in 1843. Today, the winery grounds form a captivating pocket of Australian history, now owned by the Lindner family, whose own mark on the Barossa landscape spans six-generations of regional farming, food, community, and now wine. Recognising the rarity of this shiraz vineyard, the site was dedicated to Auricht (who fled his native Prussia to escape religious persecution) and named Freedom, from which family winemaker Paul Lindner crafts ‘The Freedom 1843’ Shiraz - a single vineyard, old vine wine, which holds the honor of ‘Excellent’ in the Langton’s Fine Wine Classification VI. Resurrecting Barossa’s aged vines is an undertaking Langmeil Winery continues to take in its stride since becoming custodian 04 motoring | September 2016

of the notable property in 1996. These winery-owned vineyards are now the foundation for its dedicated ‘Old Vine Garden’ wines that span the Barossa Old Vine Charter of 35 to 125+ year-old vines. A fine example is the ‘Orphan Bank’ Shiraz, which in a past life was a site of 320 vines planted pre-1860. Langmeil Winery saved the vines from a developer’s bulldozer, transplanting each vine one by one to its property with an incredible 95% success rate and a first for Barossa. In addition to these wineryowned vineyards, which include an Eden Valley site planted in 1890, Langmeil Winery works with Barossa’s multi-generational

family grape growers who form the core of the region’s culture built on tradition, not trends. Having access to such diverse vineyard sites through these growers fortifies Langmeil’s philosophy to produce worldclass red and white wines with individual style, while still maintaining the distinct hallmarks of Barossa. Through Paul’s passion to combine old world and new world techniques with minimal handling and intervention, the fruit’s full potential is captured. This is evident across all wines, yet perhaps more so in the Barossa ‘Valley Floor’ Shiraz; an expression of the region’s most renowned variety from many of its 30 original villages with a nod

THE BAROSSA VALLEY IS A RENOWNED WINE-PRODUCING REGION NORTHEAST OF ADELAIDE, IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA. THE AREA ENCOMPASSES TOWNS SUCH AS TANUNDA, ANGASTON AND NURIOOTPA. SHIRAZ GRAPES ARE THE LOCAL SPECIALITY. THE STONE COTTAGES AND LUTHERAN CHURCHES THROUGHOUT THE REGION ARE TESTAMENT TO A 19TH-CENTURY WAVE OF GERMAN SETTLERS.

Richard, Shirley, Paul and James Lindner

Barrels glowing

Shiraz hanging from the vines

Autumn Cellar Door

Old Cottage

OVG Range 35 Fifth Wave and 100 Year Orphan and Riesling

towards history and wine evolution, and recognised by the Barossa Trust Mark as a product of integrity and quality. The Langmeil range of wines can be enjoyed locally or experienced first hand at its Cellar Door in the Barossa. A visit will immerse you in the charm of an historic original Barossa trading settlement, with the old Stable now the place where visitors are hosted with friendly banter over the sharing and tasting of its award-winning wines. For a cellar visit contact > contact Jonathan Bitter at Langmeil Winery, Cnr Langmeil & Para Roads, Tanunda SA 5352, Australia. Email jonathan@langmeilwinery.com.au or cellardoor@langmeilwinery.com.au. Locally Langmeil Wines are imported by Attard and Co and available from Sistina Wine & Co.,The Strand Gzira. Opening hours: 10am till late. WEB: www.sistinawineco.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/sistina wineco TEL: 2131 4161. Gozo Distributor: Abrahamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supplies Co. Ltd. tel 2156 3231 Web: www.abrahams.com.mt September 2016 | motoring 05

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS LONDON TEAMS UP WITH FASHION HOUSE

ROKSANDA FOR LONDON FASHION WEEK

• ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS LONDON PROVIDES LUXURY TRANSPORT FOR ROKSANDA DURING LONDON FASHION WEEK • THREE CHAUFFEUR-DRIVEN VEHICLES, INCLUDING THE VERY LATEST GHOST BLACK BADGE, FEATURE ROKSANDA EXTERIOR BRANDING • STYLIST TINA LEUNG, FASHION CONSULTANT YASMIN SEWELL AND ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNISABLE FACES IN LONDON FASHION, COMPANY FOUNDER ROKSANDA ILINCIC, ALL TRANSPORTED BY ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS LONDON • LONDON FASHION WEEK RETURNS TO THE CAPITAL FROM 17-21 FEBRUARY 2017.

olls-Royce Motor Cars London joined forces with highly acclaimed fashion house ROKSANDA over the course of London Fashion Week to provide luxury transport to the brand’s famous faces and guests. Stylist Tina Leung and fashion consultant Yasmin Sewell were chauffeured in style around the capital thanks to ROKSANDA and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London, which provided three vehicles throughout the exhibition. Also in transit with Rolls-Royce was

THE NEW HIGHPERFORMANCE MODEL AND ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS LONDON’S OTHER VEHICLES FEATURED STRIKING ROKSANDA EXTERIOR BRANDING FOR THE WEEK AND TURNED PLENTY OF HEADS IN THE CAPITAL.

Stylist Tina Leung emerges from a black Rolls-Royce Ghost

ROKSANDA founder and London fashion icon Roksanda Ilincic, who first launched the brand that carries her name more than a decade ago. ROKSANDA was launched at London Fashion Week back in 2005 and, just like Rolls-Royce, has become unmistakable in its field. The brand then opened its first shop in Mayfair in 2014 and has since grown to be one of the biggest names in luxury fashion. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London’s venture with ROKSANDA also saw many Londoners get their first glimpse of the allnew Ghost Black Badge, which was one of the chauffeur cars. This unique Rolls-Royce, which is available at the H.R. Owen Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London showroom in Mayfair,

is a darker, more assertive and focused take on the brand that fits in perfectly in the, at times, edgy city of London. The new high-performance model and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London’s other vehicles featured striking ROKSANDA exterior branding for the week and turned plenty of heads in the capital. Claus Andersen, Brand Director of RollsRoyce Motor Cars London, said: “Being part of London Fashion Week 2016 was an excellent experience.Tina,Yasmin and Roksanda were transported around London in the kind of luxury that only a Rolls-Royce can provide. Our Ghost Black Badge certainly got plenty of attention on its travels, too. It takes a completely different approach to its forebears, which made it perfect in this modern and stylish city.”

Fashion consultant Yasmin Sewell

HIGH-PERFORMANCE HYUNDAI N CONCEPT TO BE UNVEILED AT PARIS MOTOR SHOW yundai Motor gives a first glimpse at its latest highperformance N concept the RN30

06 motoring | September 2016

that will celebrate its world premiere on the 29th September at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The motorsportinspired racing concept is

developed to deliver passion and pleasure on the track for everybody. Based on the New Generation Hyundai i30, the

RN30 was born as a racing machine, developed in close collaboration with Hyundai Motorsport (HMSG), Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Center

(HMETC) and Hyundai Motor’s Performance Development & High Performance Vehicle Division. The striking concept is distinguished by its purposeful aerodynamic design and specialised high-performance technologies that deliver thrilling high-speed driving. The silhouette of the RN30 is unmistakably inherited from the clean and cohesive lines of the New Generation Hyundai i30, but with a lower, wider stance to enable greater stability during high speed driving and cornering. The high-performance Hyundai N Concept RN30 will celebrate its world premiere at the 2016 Paris Motor Show on September 29 alongside the New Generation Hyundai i30 and the New i10. The Hyundai Motor Press Conference will take place at 15:15 CET on the stand number 417 in Hall 3. Live streaming of the press conference at the 2016 Paris Motor Show will be available at: www.hyundai.news/pms2016 Broadcast of pre-Show begins at 15:00 CEST on Tuesday 29 September 2016.

Honda UK starts S800 restoration project • CAR TO BE READY IN TIME FOR NEXT YEAR’S GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED • 2017 SEES 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST FOUR WHEELED HONDA TO BE SOLD IN THE UK – THE S800 • RESTORATION TO BE AUTHENTIC AND SYMPATHETIC TO CAR’S AGE

onda UK has started the restoration project for its recently acquired S800 sports car. Slated to be ready in time for the Goodwood Festival of Speed next June, the car currently being restored is a red 1967 model. Working in partnership with Le Riche Automobile Restorers in Jersey, Honda purchased the S800 with a view to adding the car to its growing heritage press fleet and using the car to showcase the rich automotive Honda history at events around the UK. Currently suffering from rust and unsurprising amounts of wear and tear over almost 50 years of use, the S800 is being sympathetically refurbished to a condition that respectfully reflects its age, with Honda UK keen not to “overrestore” the car but keep the end-result authentic. Philip Crossman, managing director of Honda UK, commented: “Next year, 2017 marks the 50th anniversary of the first four-wheeled Honda to be sold in the UK – the S800. And with this golden celebration for Honda in the UK, the S800 is the perfect addition to the press fleet. “The engine still works perfectly, as you would expect from a Honda, so we don’t need to engage a complete overhaul of the car. The interior needs looking at as do parts of the bodywork – in short it simply needs some loving care and attention, which we are trusting to Le Riche, to get it back to its

former glory.” Capable of reaching the heady heights of 100mph, the S800 derived its power from a high revving 800cc motor,

derived from Honda’s successful motorcycle division, which could redline at 10,000 rpm. Production of the S800 finished in May 1970 with almost

12,000 produced. Honda did not manufacture another S roadster for nearly thirty years until the release of the S2000.

September 2016 | motoring 07

THE MOST DEMANDING ATECA

FOR THE MOST DEMANDING DRIVERS • SEAT DEMONSTRATES THE ENORMOUS POSSIBILITIES OF THE ATECA FAMILY WITH THE ATECA X-PERIENCE • SEAT ATECA X-PERIENCE COMBINES VERSATILITY, TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN, WITH THE ABILITY TO OVERCOME ANY OBSTACLE TO REACH A FINAL DESTINATION

EAT is set to present the Ateca X-Perience, together with a unique stand concept, bringing innovation to this year’s Paris Motor Show.The Ateca X-Perience is a demonstration that SEAT can surpass any limit, with a different take on the conventional SUV. Normally, Ateca customers are urban, but this car has much more capacity to drive off-road than one might expect. With the Ateca X-Perience, emphasis is put on its most adventurous character, in order to create a type of all-terrain vehicle that is simply off-limits to other current SUVs. As soon as the driver pushes the start button, the Ateca X-Perience is ready for adventure, adapting itself to every driver situation, road condition and personal preference at any moment thanks to the Driving Experience drive selector located on the centre console. SEAT Drive Profile offers Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual modes, however, it’s also possible to go a step further, thanks to the 4Drive traction control settings, provided by the efficient Haldex system, which includes two additional profiles for snow and off-road, as well as Hill Descent Control function. “The X-Perience is an exercise to show

the Ateca family’s possibilities and potential in the future. We know that with the Ateca, we can go much further and it will be on display at the Paris Motor Show,” said the SEAT Vice-president of R&D, Dr. Matthias Rabe. “With the Ateca X-Perience we can go beyond that which we already have in the series. It’s for the customer that wants to go further, taking it to the extreme, for weekend adventures, and of course, offroad.”

SURPASSING THE CONVENTIONAL LIMITS The objective of the X-Perience is to underline the all-terrain characteristics of the SEAT Ateca. It considers those customers that, for either their hobbies, lifestyles or simply for their needs, seek the best off-road qualities from their car. Ateca drivers are likely to spend around 95% of their time on asphalt, with the remaining 5% off-road, or, on snow. However, with the X-Perience, that proportion will switch to become 75% normal use and 25% offroad. It aims for the customer that, above all, is going to use the Ateca off-road, for those demanding SUV drivers that need excellent all-terrain qualities. In short, it is a car destined for those that consider asphalt a formality and for those to whom tracks and

THE X-PERIENCE IS AN EXERCISE TO SHOW THE ATECA FAMILY’S POSSIBILITIES AND POTENTIAL IN THE FUTURE. WE KNOW THAT WITH THE ATECA, WE CAN GO MUCH FURTHER AND IT WILL BE ON DISPLAY AT THE PARIS MOTOR SHOW lanes remain small and insignificant.The interesting thing, the attractive thing and the challenge are beyond conventional limits.

AN INSPIRED 4X4 DESIGN SEAT brings a piece of Barcelona to Paris, inspired by innovation, modernity, technology and design, all values shared by the French capital and of course, with the Ateca X-Perience. Wherever you might have to stop, the Ateca X-Perience can continue because of its high-profile tyres and bespoke 18-inch rims, black wheel arch mouldings, non-scratch paintwork and excellent ground clearance. Evidently, as well as superior practical 4x4 capabilities, the Ateca X-Perience also boasts striking design. “That’s why we’ve chosen a typical 4x4 design style, starting with the wheel diameter and including highprofile tyres, going for a 4x4 look with the front bumpers, sump guard and fog light protectors,”explained SEAT Design director, 08 motoring | September 2016

Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos. “The colour has ended up being very important too. We’ve chosen olive green matt, a natural colour that’s a little camouflaged, underlined with orange tones in the details that give it a more technical look.” The exterior is completed with details such as chrome roof rails, a rear spoiler mounted at the top of the tailgate to bring out the car’s sporty character and mud flaps mounted to the rear bumper with the 4Drive and X-Perience logos placed on the boot. Additionally, a front diffuser defines and protects the lower grille, which is repeated at the rear of the Ateca XPerience. Tones linked with those used on the exterior have been used in the interior too,

which is illuminated by ambient-light LEDs SAFETY AND WITH THE ATECA Xfor darker conditions. Earthy colours of CONVENIENCE coffee and green have been utilised, PERIENCE WE CAN GO WITHOUT COMPROMISE combining with orange stitching on the wheel, seats and the gear knob, to As in every adventure, unexpected things BEYOND THAT WHICH WE steering reinforce the car’s technological nuances. Its can happen.The Ateca X-Perience can take ALREADY HAVE IN THE sports seats are upholstered in suede everything in its stride, thanks to one of the leather, while the aluminium kickplates bear most complete range of driver assist SERIES. IT’S FOR THE the X-Perience logo.The XP abbreviation is systems in the class. For example,Traffic Jam Assist coordinates the work of the Lane CUSTOMER THAT WANTS also present on the steering wheel. Completing its adventurous appeal are Warning Assist and the TO GO FURTHER, TAKING protective rubber floor mats, to combat Departure Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system. and dirt, together with a chrome strip Front Assist works as an emergency brake IT TO THE EXTREME, FOR mud on the boot lip, just as the current Leon X- that recognises vehicles and pedestrians, as WEEKEND ADVENTURES, Perience has. well as the Traffic Sign Recognition System, with Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross AND OF COURSE, OFFTraffic Alert, a 360-degree camera with 4DRIVE – TOTAL birds-eye view, Park Assist for parallel ROAD TRACTION FROM A parking or angle parking, High Beam

POWERFUL ENGINE

The SEAT Ateca X-Perience uses a 4Drive traction system.Thanks to the Haldex clutch system, the torque distribution between both axles is done in the most efficient way to ensure exceptional power delivery on terrain at any moment, even in tricky conditions. Furthermore, the advanced XDS traction control system ensures that each wheel seamlessly receives the necessary power to keep going. SEAT’s latest showcar is powered by the 2.0 TDI 190 PS engine, which is a pleasure to drive both on- and off-road. Boasting 400 Nm of torque and allied to a sevenspeed paddle-shift DSG transmission, it not only guarantees outstanding performance and low fuel consumption and emissions, but it also allows the driver to enjoy the versatility and fun of the Ateca X-Perience, without having to move his or her hands away from the steering wheel to change gears.This is a safety and comfort benefit that is evident particularly when faced with challenging all-terrain conditions.

Assist…the list goes on. SEAT is aiming to be a front-runner in connectivity, and of course, the Ateca XPerience is no slouch in that department. Constantly in touch with the digital world, it uses the latest generation of infotainment systems including Easy Connect, SEAT Full Link (which incorporates Apple Car Play and Android Auto functions), an eight-inch touchscreen Media System and Wireless Charger which allows the driver to charge smartphones without pesky cables. The SEAT Ateca, which arrived in UK showrooms earlier this month, launches ahead of SEAT’s next three new models due in 2017 and is capable of satisfying the off-roading needs of most drivers. Undoubtedly, many Ateca customers are trendsetters, with a young and restless spirit, looking for a car which suits their lifestyle. For them, the X-Perience endeavours to show that it is possible to go beyond the limits, that it is possible to enjoy a more adventurous Ateca: Created in Barcelona. September 2016 | motoring 09

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THIS YEAR’S IAA COMMERICAL VEHICLES: the new e-Crafter • WORLD PREMIERE OF THE FIRST ELECTRICALLY POWERED CRAFTER • CONCEPT VEHICLE DEMONSTRATES NEAR PRODUCTION-READY SOLUTION FOR ZERO EMISSION CITY CENTRE DELIVERY TRAFFIC • UNIMPAIRED CARGO CAPACITY • LOADS OF UP TO 1.7 TONNES • RANGE OF OVER 200 KILOMETRES • FIRST VEHICLES IN USE IN 2017

olkswagen Commercial Vehicles shows at this year's IAA Commercial Vehicles show in Hannover with a new eCrafter concept vehicle a fully thought-out concept for zero emission city centre delivery traffic. Even from the very first designs for the new Crafter electric power as a drive system

variant was already incorporated into the plans, as Dr Eckhard Scholz, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, explains the contemporary implementation of this concept: "The first eCrafter vehicles will already be in customers' hands by 2017." The character of the new Crafter has not been changed by the electric drive system. The

concept vehicle continues to offer robust inner qualities, such as outstanding payload capacity, ideal cargo space of 11.3 cubic metres and a maximum cargo space height of 1,961 millimetres. The load width available between the wheel arches is 1,380 mm and the maximum cargo space length is 4,855 mm, thus meaning no changes to the overall dimensions.

THE E-CRAFTER’S DESIGN ALREADY TAKES INTO ACCOUNT FUTURE BATTERY DEVELOPMENTS, WITH WHICH – DEPENDING ON CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIFICATION – FREELY CONFIGURABLE RANGES OF UP TO 400 KILOMETRES BECOME POSSIBLE. With a permitted total weight of 4.2 tonnes the roadworthy concept vehicle is accelerated by the 100-kilowatt electric motor up to the maximum permitted speed of 80 km/h. Both urban motorway and inter-urban journeys are thus no problem. Thanks to maximum torque of 290 Newton metres, which is effectively available without any delay, appropriate performance levels are a piece of cake even with a maximum load of 1,709 kilograms. The concept vehicle's battery pack, which is made up of 312 cells and has a total capacity of 43 kilowatt hours, is accommodated in space-saving fashion under the cargo space floor. The cargo space capacity

10 motoring | September 2016

thus remains unchanged. Depending on vehicle configuration, the battery unit enables a range of more than 200 kilometres. Subject to sufficient charging current capacity, the batteries can also be charged back up to 80 per cent in 45 minutes. The e-Crafter's design already takes into account future battery developments, with which - depending on customer requirements and specification freely configurable ranges of up to 400 kilometres become possible. These are very interesting prospects for many industries, not just those operating on city centre roads. The new e-Crafter concept vehicle sets itself apart from the diesel versions through special Reef Blue Metallic paintwork, matching painted bumpers and protective side strips and a blue bar on the radiator grille. The silent Crafter can also be recognised from the front by the signature C-shape of the daytime running lights, the typical identifying feature of Volkswagen electric vehicles. The cockpit differs from the diesel versions in that it has a 'power meter' in place of a rev counter, a leather steering wheel with blue decorative stitching and titanium black seats with blue trim. The cargo space is already appropriately equipped for the challenges of tomorrow, that the courier services sector in particular is set to face. The cargo floor elements, including ProSafe load-lashing system, Flex-Rack set-up and Globelyst shelving system, come from upgrade specialists Sortimo. The concept vehicle being shown at the IAA has additionally been given a service station, in which replacement batteries for these special cargo e-bikes can be stored and charged.

VOLKSWAGEN GROUP DELIVERIES RISE BY 6.3 PERCENT IN AUGUST • 759,400 VEHICLES HANDED OVER TO CUSTOMERS IN AUGUST • 6.66 MILLION VEHICLES DELIVERED WORLDWIDE FROM JANUARY TO AUGUST • FRED KAPPLER, HEAD OF GROUP SALES: “ALL GROUP BRANDS TURNED IN A SOLID DELIVERY PERFORMANCE IN AUGUST AND FOR THE FIRST EIGHT MONTHS. OVERALL, GROUP DELIVERIES ARE UP 1.8 PERCENT ON THE PREVIOUS YEAR.”

he Volkswagen Group delivered 759,400 vehicles in August, an increase of 6.3 percent. 6.66 million vehicles were handed over to customers worldwide from January to August, representing a rise of 1.8 percent compared with the previous year. “All Group brands turned in a solid delivery performance in August and for the first eight months. That underscores customers’ trust in our brands. Our models performed particularly well in Asia-Pacific and Europe”, Fred Kappler, Head of Group Sales, commented, and went on to say: “Nevertheless, our task now is to strengthen and expand this trust, particularly in the North America region.” The Group delivered 2.78 million vehicles (+3.1 percent) in Europe in the first eight months, of which 264,500 were handed over to customers in August, an increase of 8.3 percent compared with the previous year. 215,700 vehicles (+8.5 percent) were delivered to customers in Western Europe in August. Momentum was particularly strong in Spain and in the home market

of Germany (+11.6 percent). Likewise, markets in Central and Eastern Europe recorded solid growth of 7.1 percent. The Volkswagen Group developed particularly well in Poland thanks to a good performance by the two volume brands Volkswagen and ŠKODA, and outpaced the overall good market trend. The Volkswagen Group delivered 84,400 vehicles (-1.1 percent) in the North America region in August. While growth momentum in Mexico remained strong, deliveries in the USA continued to decline (-3.8 percent). The situation in South America remains tense as the difficult macroeconomic conditions persists.

292,600 vehicles were delivered in the region from January to August, a decrease of 25.3 percent compared with the previous year. The solid growth in the Asia-Pacific region since the beginning of the year continued. Deliveries in August increased by 14.9 percent compared with the previous year, running at 347,000 vehicles, of which 323,600 were handed over to customers in China, representing a rise of 19.7 percent. 2,700,000 vehicles (+7.0 percent) were delivered in the Asia-Pacific region from January to August, of which 2,471,600 (+9.4 percent) were handed over to customers on the Chinese market.

September 2016 | motoring 11

NEW ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA

NOW IN MALTA • FAMILY FEELING WITH GIULIA: SHARED APPEARANCE AND LINE-UP LOGIC. • EVEN SPORTIER: SPECIFIC NEW EXTERIOR DETAILS AND THE NEW VELOCE PACK AVAILABLE ON ALL PETROL AND DIESEL ENGINE VERSIONS. • MAKING ITS DEBUT IS THE NEW 1.6 JTDM 120 HP TURBO DIESEL WITH ALFA TCT. • ALWAYS CONNECTED WITH THE NEW UCONNECT SYSTEM LIVE SERVICES. • RATIONAL LINE-UP: THREE TRIM LEVELS (GIULIETTA, GIULIETTA SUPER AND GIULIETTA VELOCE), TWO NEW PACKS (VELOCE AND LUSSO), NINE ENGINE VERSIONS, ELEVEN BODY COLOURS AND TWELVE DIFFERENT 16" AND 18" ALLOY RIMS WITH THREE EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS.

o keep on playing a leading role in the segment, Alfa Romeo Giulietta has been refreshed with a bolder sport characterisation, new specific elements and an unmistakable family feeling shared with the fascinating Giulia, which is the new Alfa Romeo paradigm and ultimate expression of the meccanica delle emozioni – or mechanics of emotions - concept. New Giulietta comes with important innovations, like the new 1.6 JTDm 120 HP turbo diesel engine paired with the Alfa TCT and the extremely useful Live services on the Uconnect system available on the entire range. In addition, the line-up has been

rationalised and now features three trim levels (Giulietta, Giulietta Super and Giulietta Veloce), two packs (Veloce and Lusso) and nine engine versions (petrol, diesel and LPG) so customers can more simply and quickly pick the version most suited to their inclinations and needs and then customise it with optional equipment and accessories. Ready to face future challenges, New Giulietta embodies the unrivalled "Alfa Spirit", which for over one century has typified the cars made by Alfa Romeo. They are light and efficient - resulting from the choice of materials and the correct weight-to-power ratio - and are the perfect expression of the care for detail typical of only the very best Italian designs. Additionally, they are agile on the road with responsive steering, evolved suspensions and balanced weight distribution. Finally, New Giulietta fits a host of features developed by Magneti Marelli - from lighting devices to powertrain, suspensions and exhaust systems – as further confirmation of the consolidated and mutually profitable collaboration between Alfa Romeo and the well-known international leader in the design and manufacturing of high-tech automotive systems and components.

DRIVING ABROAD IN WINTER IN SNOW AND ICE WINTER TYRE AND SNOW CHAIN REQUIREMENTS IN EUROPEAN RESORTS

YOU SHOULD ONLY CONSIDER DRIVING IN EXTREME WINTER CONDITIONS IF YOU ARE CONFIDENT AND YOUR VEHICLE IS SUITABLY EQUIPPED, WRITES PAUL VELLA, RMF TECHNICAL DIRECTOR.

TYRE TREAD

herever you drive, you are responsible for equipping and controlling your vehicle correctly. You may be liable to a fine if you impede the normal flow of traffic or cause an accident as a consequence of not adapting your vehicle (tyres/snow chains) to suit weather and road conditions. Winter conditions in many resorts will be more severe than anything encountered here. Some countries require residents to use winter tyres but then permit visitors to drive on 'summer' tyres – fitted with chains when conditions or local signs dictate. If you are planning to drive for a considerable distance in mainland Europe during the winter months we strongly recommend fitting winter tyres.

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Check all tyres for condition, pressure and tread depth. Where winter tyres are fitted a minimum tread depth of 3mm is required in most countries (the Czech Republic now requires 4mm). For other tyres, while the legal minimum is 1.6mm the AA recommends at least 3mm of tread for winter motoring, and certainly no less than 2mm.

Country Andorra Austria Finland France Germany Great Britain Italy Norway Sweden Switzerland

WINTER TYRE AND SNOW CHAIN REQUIREMENTS

Key: P = Permitted R = Recommended M = Mandatory C = Carry chains and use them as dictated by local signs or road conditions. Reduced speed limits may apply.

The table below shows the requirements for vehicles not exceeding 3500kg and shows only specific winter requirements.

NOTES

All vehicles driving on snow covered roads must have winter tyres (or allseason tyres marked M+S*/mud and snow) during the winter season (from 1 November to 15 April) and if roads have a covering of snow, slush or ice outside these dates. Tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 4mm.

Winter tyres R M(1) M(3) M(4) R(7) R M(6) R(2)

Snow chains(5) C C P C C P C(7) C R C

Theoretically snow chains on summer tyres can be used as an alternative to winter tyres where the entire road is heavily covered with snow and no damage to the road is caused by the snow chains. In practice though, because road conditions and the weather cannot be predicted, use of winter tyres is effectively compulsory.

From 1 December to the end of February (in practice from November to April) unless otherwise indicated by road signs. Tyres must be marked M+S* on the sidewall. Spiked/studded tyres may be used from 1 November to the first monday after Easter.

Germany introduced regulations in 2010 requiring all passenger cars and motorbikes including vehicles from foreign countries to be fitted with winter tyres or

Snow tyres are not compulsory but vehicles not equipped to travel through snow and which impede traffic are liable to a fine.

all season tyres on all axles when conditions are wintry. Winter tyres (or 'all season' tyres) should bear the mark M+S* or the snowflake symbol on the side wall.

Snow chains must be fitted on at least two drive wheels. In any country Snow chains may only be used where there's sufficient snow covering to avoid any possibility of damage to the road surface. A fine may be imposed if damage is caused.

Winter tyres, marked M+S* (with or without spikes/studs), with a tread depth of at least 3mm are compulsory from 1 December until 31 March for Swedish registered vehicles and trailers and also for foreign registered vehicles.

Between 15 October and 15 April or at other times if conditions dictate. Provinces can introduce their own legislation making the use of winter tyres and snow chains compulsory. Safe Motoring by RMF

NEW MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS ALL-TERRAIN: VERSATILITY AND AGILITY IN A STRIKING OUTFIT

rom unpaved tracks to steep, serpentine snow-bound roads, the new E-Class All-Terrain can tackle routes where conventional estates have to give up, thanks to greater ground clearance and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Rugged styling and flared wheel arches also give it a tough look. The E-Class All-Terrain makes its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show 2016. The first cars will arrive in the UK from spring 2017, while pricing and specification will be announced in early 2017. “No E-Class has ever been as versatile as the All-Terrain. The new model combines a striking look in SUV style with the intelligent space concept of the estate. This is coupled with lots of innovative safety features and the multiaward-winning E-Class interior,” said Ola Källenius, Member of the Daimler

WITH 4MATIC ALL-WHEEL DRIVE AS A STANDARD FEATURE AND INCREASED GROUND CLEARANCE THANKS TO THE AIR BODY CONTROL MULTI-CHAMBER AIR SUSPENSION, THE ALLTERRAIN IS A FLEXIBLE ALL-ROUNDER – FOR UNPAVED ROADS, FAMILY AND LEISURE TIME. management board responsible for Sales and Marketing of Mercedes Benz Cars. “With 4MATIC all-wheel drive as a standard feature and increased ground clearance thanks to the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air

suspension, the All-Terrain is a flexible allrounder – for unpaved roads, family and leisure time.” Thanks to off-road styling elements the All-Terrain has a powerful and robust appearance which also distinguishes it from the classic estate. Dynamism and modern luxury unite to make the AllTerrain an ambassador for the MercedesBenz design philosophy of the sensuous clarity that defines modern luxury. An eye-catching feature of the front is the SUV-style two-fin grille with the star integrated in the centre. The distinctive front bumper and lower panelling, electroplated in silver-chrome, also contribute to the robust appearance. The top part of the three-part front bumper is painted in the body colour and the lower part comes in grained black plastic. At the side, the black wheel arch covers are a distinctive feature that emphasise the car’s all-terrain character. This also applies to the black side skirt that features a chrome trip strip. Three exclusive alloy wheel sets in 19- and 20inch formats with higher sidewalls give the vehicle a confident look, greater ground clearance and enhanced comfort on rough roads. The All-Terrain also features a modelspecific three-part bumper at the rear with the top part painted in body colour and the lower part in grained black plastic. Further features typical of an SUV include robust load sill protection and an underbody guard electroplated in silverchrome. The interior includes aluminium-carbon look trim that is exclusive to the AllTerrain, stainless steel sports pedals and floor mats with All-Terrain lettering. The equipment is based on the AVANTGARDE interior line, while EXCLUSIVE and designo appointments are optionally available [UK details are to be confirmed]. The new model boasts all the load compartment flexibility of the EClass estate, such as the rear seat cargo position and a standard 40:20:40 splitfolding rear seat back. All E-Class

innovations relating to safety, comfort and convenience are available. The All-Terrain will be launched as an E 220 d 4MATIC (143 kW/194 hp) with the newly developed four-cylinder diesel engine. A short time later a variant with a six-cylinder diesel engine will follow. Both models come with the new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission as standard. Figures for version with 9G-TRONIC, The All-Terrain has DYNAMIC SELECT as standard. This enables five driving programmes to be selected with different engine, transmission, ESP® and steering characteristics. A special model-specific feature is the All-Terrain driving programme, which offers settings for offroad driving and was derived from the GLE. The even more comfortable suspension configuration and the large wheels with higher sidewalls noticeably further increase ride comfort on rough roads compared with the E-Class. Selecting the All-Terrain driving programme with the driving programme switch raises the chassis via the standard AIR BODY CONTROL by +20 mm up to a speed of 35 km/h. The thresholds for ESP®, active yaw control and acceleration skid control (ASR) are adjusted accordingly. The All-Terrain driving programme has a special indicator in the vehicle display. Information displayed there includes the steering angle, the vehicle level (position of the air suspension), the angle of slope and the angle of inclination, the accelerator/brake position and a compass. Thanks to air suspension three levels from 0 to +35 mm are selectable. Independent of the driving programme the highest level can also be selected manually with the level button on the centre console. The E-Class All-Terrain is 29 millimetres higher than the E-Class Estate – 14 mm of which is due to the tyres’ larger height/width ratio and 15 mm to the normal driving level of the air suspension. The ground clearance is 121 to 156 mm. September 2016 | motoring 13

MOTORSMT FROM THURSDAY 6 OCTOBER ON TVM2HD

otorsmt is the new television programme, based on the high adrenaline in motorsport disciplines. As from this October, Motorsmt will be aired on Maltese national television, presenting the public with various scenarios related to Maltese Championships. In Malta, every year various championships take place, these include Drag Racing Championship organised by the Malta Drag Racing Association, Auto and Moto Cross organised by Assocjazzjoni Sport Muturi u Karozzi, Hill Climb Championship organised by Island Car Club, Drifting

Championship organised by the Maltese Drifting Association and Off-road organised by the All Wheel Drive Club Malta. Hundreds of drivers compete in these championships with their vehicles in various places, such as the Drag Racing track in Hal Far, the track of Assocjazzjoni Sport Muturi u Karozzi in Ta' Qali and in various other places which are used from time to time. It is a known fact that motorsport in Malta is followed by more than 60,000 followers, all championships organised are of high standards and Maltese drivers never fail to impress whenever they participate in competitions abroad. In this ground-breaking new TV show the general public will be able to follow the build-up of various racing cars, fast pacing action, intense competition with

dramatic victories and defeats that form part of this sport. Other features will be covering Maltese drivers competing abroad in their respective discipline as well as car and motorcycle events and shows of different genre including classics and scale models. Preparations for Motorsmt have been undergoing for a number of weeks and we can reveal that the production team has been following and covering the adventure of eight Maltese drivers in Ragusa, Sicily and that of Duncan Micallef in Tierp Arena in Sweden where he managed to break his personal record as a Top Fuel driver and in Santa

Pod, where he broke the track record. Another feature that the production team is working on is a challenge between two teams of drivers. The challenge is expected to provide the public with moments of competition, laughter and also with information regarding the different disciplines in motorsport, the difference in technique and also the different types of cars used. Motorsmt is presented by Oliver Attard and will be aired every Thursday, starting from Thursday 6 October at 19:30hrs on TVM2HD with repetition every Saturday afternoon. Facebook: page motorsmt.eu.

McLAREN 570S NAMED MOTOR TREND’S BEST DRIVER’S CAR OF 2016 he McLaren 570S Coupé has been named Motor Trend’s Best Driver’s Car for 2016, beating 12 competitors during vigorous testing over the

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leading US media brand’s Best Driver’s Car Week. This is the 10th major award that the car has received, and from titles across the world. Since 2009, Motor Trend, with

championship-winning race car driver Randy Pobst, has gathered for Best Driver’s Car Week to thoroughly test, review, and film the year’s top sports saloons, coupés, hatchbacks, and

convertibles.The 570S went through the standard battery of instrumented tests, a closedcourse hillclimb on one of California’s best mountain roads, as well as hot lapping at the legendary Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Motor Trend’s esteemed staff of editors and writers each had a chance to test the 570S and Editor-in-Chief Ed Loh commented: “The McLaren 570S stands out in this year’s crowd of high-horsepower overachievers because it provides a preternatural connection between driver and machine. With massive thrust in a lightweight, mid-engine chassis that can be guided by the fingertips, the 570S is immensely addictive—and the perfect homage to McLaren’s Grand Prix pedigree.” “I am delighted that Motor Trend has recognized the McLaren 570S Coupé as their Best Driver’s Car. From the moment the 570S was

conceived, that’s exactly what it was intended to be,” said Mike Flewitt, CEO of McLaren Automotive. “Using the core DNA of McLaren a 3.8-liter twin turbocharged engine paired with a lightweight carbon fibre Monocell chassis - the 570S was tuned to offer the most amount of fun. Since the reveal in New York last year, the 570S has redefined the perception of a sports car, and the Motor Trend Best Driver’s Car award is a very welcome validation of our ambitions.” Motortrend.com will feature exclusive videos and on-site reviews of the 12 competitors throughout Motor Trend’s Best Driver’s Car Week, and this award announcement serves as the centerpiece of the five-day online event. This is the tenth award given to the McLaren 570S Coupé and is an important addition to the international collection of accolades this year.