xeno
VANCOUVER’S
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR SUPREME
CARS & ENTHUSIASTS
13, 2009 2 1 T P E S f Nations he Plaza o In t
Hosted by
news
OFFICIAL GUIDE
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Luxury Supercars, Private Collections and Vintage Models Showcased On Unique Waterfront Setting In Vancouver, B.C., Canada
September 12 - 13, 2009 11am - 7pm www.luxurysupercar.com
l+supercar event
Automotive luxury, performance and passion heat up Vancouver’s wa-
terfront at Canada’s largest annual Luxury & Supercar Weekend event, September 12-13, 2009
public .
Vancouver’s Luxury & Supercar Weekend welcomes all luxury and supercar agents as well as private collectors and auto aficionados from
Hosted by Vancouver’s Edgewater Casino located at the spectacular
around the world to discover a prestigious line-up of automotive excel-
and vibrant Plaza of Nations waterfront, beside the Mainers Cooper Quay.
lence, including: the 251 mph Bugatti Veyron, the Rolls Royce Phantom
The Luxury & Supercar Weekend event celebrates the finest collection
Drop Head Coupe, the Lamborghini 2010 LP670-4 SV, the historical E
of supercars from prestigious manufacturers such as Bugatti and Ferrari
type Jaguar, and the electrics the true supercars of the future.
as well as exclusive never before seen modified supercars from an elite group of private collectors. The term ‘Supercar’ was coined in the 1960’s by British motor journalist L. J. K. Setright writing about the Lamborghini Miura. The term went on to describe the most prestigious designs and engineering advances gears
in automobiles. Supercars are created to showcase supreme advancements in technology and often designed to push the limits of speed; they 17
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are generally not profitable for manufacturers. Only limited quantities are produced, which end up in private collections never to be viewed by the
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You also insist on performance and exceptional service. When it comes to wealth management, deal with professionals that share your same passion for detail and drive for superior performance. the world’s best parties, the world’s top destinations
Stenner Investment Partners of GMP Private Client L.P. is a multi-family office group based in Vancouver, which specializes in the wealth management needs of those with a minimum of $5 million in liquid assets or a net worth of $10 million plus.
STENNER INVESTMENT PARTNERS, GMP PRIVATE CLIENT L.P. Private Group Tel: (604) 678-3650 www.stennerinvestmentpartners.com
GMP PRIVATE CLIENT
C
GMP Private Client is a full-service investment firm focused on the affluent client and their financial objectives. Investment Advisors are employees of GMP Private Client. GMP Private Client is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada and Member CIPF. GMP Private Client is a trademark of GMP Securities L.P. © 2009. GMP Securities L.P. All rights reserved.
Carmana Plaza
Spacious Contemporary Suites Downtown Vancouver
Empire One Car Club.indd 1
4/22/09 4:16:54 PM
One and Two Bedroom Suites Spacious suites with contemporary design, climate control, high speed internet access, televisions and dvd player. Multi-lingual front desk staff, concierge and bellmen, daily housekeeping, laundry & dry cleaning service, fitness centre and secure underground parking.
Carmana Plaza
1128 Alberni Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6E 4R6 Tel: 604-683-1399 | Fax: 604-683-1391 | Toll Free: 1-877-686-9988 www.carmanaplaza.com
“We’re thrilled to bring to the spectacular City of Vancouver this premier event that promises to be an inspiring and educational experience.
ury and
It is an exclusive opportunity to discover and celebrate innovation in
os from
high-performance and sustainable technology, premier craftsmanship
e excel-
and luxurious style, while exploring the passion and vision behind many
Phantom
of the world’s greatest automotive designers and manufacturers”, says
torical E
Craig Stowe, President of Luxury & Supercar Weekend. Vancouver’s Luxury & Supercar Weekend is proud to recognize its sponsors, partners and affiliates as well as exclusive automobiles that will be featured because of the generous support of private collectors. This unique event is committed to respecting Vancouver’s position as a sustainable city.
General Admission Tickets are available online at: www.wantickets.com or In person at Edgewater Casino Guest Services 24 hours a day 7 days a week. On the day of the event, subject to capacity, at the Luxury & Supercar ticket booth. Members of JetSet Crew,
604.612.9784 or
12
Craig Stowe, Director of Luxury & Supercar Weekend craigstowe@telus.net
Xeno Vancouver is the Official Guide of Luxury Super Car Weekend.
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For all media inquiries, please contact:
news
can purchase tickets online at www.jetsetcrew.com.
2009.8.28 7:38:33 PM
Contents
31
Featured Shop______________35 6_________________Masthead
SR Auto Group
8_______________Contributors
Column___________________40
10_________LSW Event Calendar
David Wan - The Native Foreigner
13____________List of Sponsors
Events____________________43
14__________List of Invited Cars
SR Black Tie Event
19____________________News
XENO Magazine Launch
Local News Automotive News Design News
German Car Fest Review____________________46
35
45
Royal 4door Family Feud
23____________ Lifestyle Gears 26__________________Fashion 31_____________Featured Ride 2009 Bentley Flying Spur Speed
26
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Intelligent
Website Design
xeno w w w. x e n ova n c o u ve r. c o m PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF Sung-Rok Cheong
M
CREATIVE DIRECTOR James Hur ASSOCIATE EDITOR David Wan SALES & MARKETING Don Lee Skipp Johnson FINANCIAL EXECUTIVE Youngjin Won
What We Deliver... 01 HIGH QUALITY WEBSITE DESIGN 02 WEB HOSTING 03 WEB SOLUTIONS 04 DATABASE DRIVEN WEBSITES 05 ONLINE SHOPPING CARTS 06 E-COMMERCE SITES
WEB COORDINATOR Junho Ahn Graphic Designer Goo Il Lee ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES For information regarding advertising opportunities please email media@velocesr.com or call 604.639.2140 SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe , call 604.639.2140 or email media@velocesr.com VELOCE MEDIA PRODUCTION INC. 1500-885 West georgia st. Vancouver B.C V6C 3E8
M
07 MAINTENACE AND REDESIGN 08 CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Copyright 2009 © by Veloce Media Productions Inc. All rights reserved. XENO Vancouver® is published 12 times a year by Veloce Media Productions Inc in Canada. Individual articles in this journal are copyrighted by VMP Inc., as indicated on each article. Reproduction, redistribution, or reselling any materials from this publication in either machine-readable form or any other form in whole or in part without permission of the VMP Inc or payment of the appropriate royalty for reuse. For subscriptions or copyright-related questions, please email your question to: media@velocesr.com XENO Vancouver® is a registered trademark of Veloce Media Productions Inc.
1500 - 885 West Georgia st. Vancouver BC Tel 604.639.2140
sept_issue 8
www.velocesr.com
Printed in Canada by Teldon Media Group.
2009.8.28 7:42:55 PM
Auto Gallery
M A S E R AT I
BMW
Ultimate power & beauty at affordable prices
Mercedes-Benz
Veloce Auto Gallery Certified Luxury Pre-owned Vehicles Leasing & Financing
new vehicle
pre-owned vehicle
www.veloceauto.com sept_issue 9
2009.8.28 7:42:56 PM
Contributors Craig Stowe, the Creator of the Edgewater Casino Luxury + Supercar Weekend, brings a wealth of talent and experience to any event. His work in the premium wine and spirit business, as a consultant for Edgewater Casino and the co-owner of the entertainment and social networking group JetSet Crew made Craig the ideal candidate to envision and establish a weekend featuring the finest collection of Luxury and Supercars ever assembled in Canada . Craig expresses his sincere thanks to Edgewater Casino for presenting the event and the Luxury + Supercar dealers / Private collectors, who have overwhelmingly supported this Luxury weekend.
David Wan is a professional writer and a self-confessed car nut. He is currently the host of the AMG car club in Vancouver, and enjoys bringing car enthusiasts together to share in their passion.
Logan McRae is an avid car enthusiast and photographer.
Jim Park has been looking at life through a camera lens since his childhood. A graduate of Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Jim owns and operates a studio in Vancouver. His works have appeared in numerous books, magazines and websites.
Sean Lim has been a resident of Vancouver since 1989, and has witnessed the evolution of the car industry through the streets of Vancouver. He has built a strong interest for exotic cars since a very young age.
lsw edition
www.xenovancouver.com
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Luxury+Supercar Weekend
Events Calender Thursday August 27th , 2009 Luxury Supercar Weekend Media Launch @ Redbull Private Lounge 4pm - 7pm
Friday September 11, 2009 Porsche 60th anniversary dinner @ Le Crocodile 909 Burrard Street, Vancouver Hosted by Le Crocodile chef and owner Michael Jacob Reception 6:30 Dinner 8:30 Accepting reservations for tables of 6, 8 or 10 guests For reservations , Please call Le Crocodile 604-669-4298 Please identify that you wish to book for the Porsche Dinner Sept 11th
Le Crocodile
Porsche after party @ Bar None 1222 Hamilton Street Yaletown, Vancouver Luxury + Supercar weekend VIP ticket holders (please show your pass for comp entry) For Bottle service & table reservation please call Waldo : wv@dhmbars.ca or 604.763.5250
Saturday September 12, 2009
Bar None
Luxury Supercar Weekend Event @ Plaza of Nation 11 am – 7 pm The Edgewater Casino Luxury + Supercar weekend auto show in the Plaza of Nations Supercar Dinner at La Terrazza Restaurant and Lounge 1088 Cambie Street Hosted by La Terrazza owners : Gennaro Iorio, Iqbal Grewal and Giulio Miceli Reception 7:30 Dinner 9:00 For reservations please call Lisa at 604-899-4449 Please identify that you wish to book for the Supercar Dinner on Sept 12th
Pop Opera
calendar
Supercar Saturday after party @ Pop Opera 686 West Hastings, Vancouver Luxury + Supercar weekend VIP ticket holders (please show your pass for comp entry) For bottle service & table reservation please call Rich : rp@dhmbars.ca or 778.960.8151
La Terrazza
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EW 111 sept_issue 12
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EW
Where can you find all your gaming action?
CD
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In Vancouver’s most spectacular casino, Edgewater!
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EW 11124 BE Magazine Branding Ad.indd 1 sept_issue 13
EW 11124 BE Magazine
6/19/09 10:44:29 AM 2009.8.28 7:43:23 PM
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the finer thin
You also insist on performance and excepti When it comes to wealth management, d professionals that share your same passion and drive for superior performan
12:35:12 PM
Exclusive Sponsors of
Stenner Investment Partners of GMP Private Client L.P. is a multi-family office group specializes in the wealth management needs of those with a minimum of $5 million in of $10 million plus.
STENNER INVESTMENT PARTNERS, GMP PRIVATE CLIEN Private Group Tel: (604) 678-3650 www.stennerinvestmentpartners.com
C
Carmana Plaza
GM
GMP Private Client is a full-service investment firm focused on the affluent client and their financial objectives. Investment Advisors are employees of GMP Private Client. GM
Spacious Contemporary Suites Regulatory Organization of Canada and Member CIPF. GMP Private Client is a trademark of GMP Securities L.P. © 2009. GMP Securities L.P. All rights reserved. Downtown Vancouver
One and Two Bedroom Suites Spacious suites with contemporary design, climate control, high speed internet access, televisions and dvd player. Multi-lingual front desk staff, concierge and bellmen, daily housekeeping, laundry & dry cleaning service, fitness centre and secure underground parking.
Carmana Plaza
1128 Alberni Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6E 4R6 Tel: 604-683-1399 | Fax: 604-683-1391 | Toll Free: 1-877-686-9988 www.carmanaplaza.com
the world’s best parties, the world’s top destinations
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Invited Cars of Luxury + Supercar Weekend 31. Ferrari F355 32. Ferrari F40 33. Ferrari F430 34. Ferrari F360 Modena 35. Ferrari California 36. Ferrari Enzo 37. Ferrari Dino GTB 38. Ferrari Testarossa 39. Ferrari F355 40. Ferrari 612 41. Jaguar E Tyoe 42. Jaguar XF 43. Jaguar XJ 44. Jaguar XK 45. Lamborghini Gallardo 46. Lamborghini Murcielago 47. Lamborghini LP560-4 48. Lamborghini LP640 49. Lotus Eleven 50. Lotus Exige 51. Lotus Elise 52. Lotus Evora 53. Lexus SC430 54. Lexus LS Hybrid 55. Maserati Quattroporte 56. Maserati GranTurismo 57. Maserati MC12 58. Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG 59. Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 60. Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG
61. Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG 62. Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG 63. Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG 64. Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG 65. Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG 66. Mercedes-Benz SLR 722s 67. Mercedes-Benz SLR Convertible 68. Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid 69. Mercedes-Benz New E Class 70. Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG 71. Nissan GTR 72. Nobel GT 73. Pantera Deromaso 74. Porsche 993 Turbo 75. Porsche 996 Turbo 76. Porsche 997 Turbo 77. Porsche 997 GT3 78. Porsche 997 GT3 RS 79. Porsche Cayenne Turbo 80. Porsche Carrera GT 81. Rolls-Royce Phentom 82. Rolls-Royce Phenton Drophead 83. Land Rover Range Rover Sports 84. Land Rover Range Rover 85. Saleen S7 86. Spyker C8 87. Spyker Lavlolette Coupe 88. Shelby Cobra GT
the list
1. Acura NSX 2. Aston Martin DB7 3. Aston Martin DB9 4. Aston Martin DBS 5. Aston Martin V12 Vanquish 6. Aston Martin V8 Vantage 7. Audi RS4 8. Audi S6 9. Audi S8 10. Audi R8 V10 11. Bugatti Veyron 12. Bentley Azure 13. Bentley Continental GT 14. Bentley Continental CGTC Speed 15. Bentley Flying Spur 16. BMW B7 17. BMW 750li 18. BMW M3 19. BMW M5 20. BMW M6 21. BMW New Z4 22. BMW Z8 23. Cadillac CTS-V 24. Cadillac STS-V 25. Cadillac Z06 26. Cadillac ZR1 27. Dodge Viper 28. Ferrari Mondial Cab 29. Ferrari 599 30. Ferrari F348
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You appreciate
the finer things in life. You also insist on performance and exceptional service. When it comes to wealth management, deal with professionals that share your same passion for detail and drive for superior performance. Stenner Investment Partners of GMP Private Client L.P. is a multi-family office group based in Vancouver, which specializes in the wealth management needs of those with a minimum of $5 million in liquid assets or a net worth of $10 million plus.
STENNER INVESTMENT PARTNERS, GMP PRIVATE CLIENT L.P. Private Group Tel: (604) 678-3650 www.stennerinvestmentpartners.com
GMP PRIVATE CLIENT GMP Private Client is a full-service investment firm focused on the affluent client and their financial objectives. Investment Advisors are employees of GMP Private Client. GMP Private Client is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada and Member CIPF. GMP Private Client is a trademark of GMP Securities L.P. © 2009. GMP Securities L.P. All rights reserved.
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C
Carmana Plaza
Spacious Contemporary Suites Downtown Vancouver
ad One and Two Bedroom Suites Spacious suites with contemporary design, climate control, high speed internet access, televisions and dvd player. Multi-lingual front desk staff, concierge and bellmen, daily housekeeping, laundry & dry cleaning service, fitness centre and secure underground parking.
Carmana Plaza
1128 Alberni Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6E 4R6 Tel: 604-683-1399 | Fax: 604-683-1391 | Toll Free: 1-877-686-9988 www.carmanaplaza.com
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VANCOUVER’S
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE FOR SUPREME
CARS & ENTHUSIASTS
VOLUME 2
Price $2.99 CAD $3.49 USD
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www.xenovancouver.com [ SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2009 ]
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ad
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s ew
N w w w. x e n ova n c o u ve r. c o m
news
news header
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Vancouver Local News Luxury + Supercar Weekend Website www.luxurysupercar.com
With over $20 000 000 dollars worth of super cars attending, Luxury Super Car Weekend will definitely be an event to remember. From Bugattis to Lambos, the event will play host to an impressive list of luxury super cars. Come drop by the Plaza of Nations next to Edgewater Casino on the 12th and 13th of September, and witness the innovative evolution of super cars from around the globe.
Ferrari California Arrived in Vancouver www.ferrarimaserativofvancouver.com
Ferrari California has taken the spotlight in centre stage of Vancouver. Having finally arrived to our city, it will be quite a treat to see one of these rolling down the streets of downtown Vancouver. With a 452hp V8 engine under its hood, the Ferrari California is definitely worth stopping to look at.
Mercedes-Benz E Class has arrived! www.mbvancouver.com
B.C. welcomes the arrival of the Benz E-class into its borders. With luxurious performance and design, the Benz E-class will definitely create some impact into Vancouver’s car industry. Ranging prices between $45 000 to $55 000, you will be sure to find that this car is worth every penny.
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Veloce Auto Gallery’s New Location
Veloce Auto Gallery has now opened in Vancouver. Veloce Auto always goes above and beyond to meet their customer’s needs. With luxurious vehicles on display, and high-class customer service to add to it, Veloce Auto Gallery is without a doubt the place to be for your luxury vehicle needs.
Lotus Evora Launching Event www.weissach.com
EVORA - Finally, Vancouver is ready to meet the ALL NEW Lotus Evora. Launched in July of 2008 at the British International Motor Show, the “properly fantastic” Evora is so far the only 2+2 midship engined coupe available. This unique masterpiece was given a warm launching event on August 27th at Lotus Vancouver.
New Rolls-Royce Dealer In Vancouver www.thebmwstore.bmw.ca
Rolls Royce Phantom & Phantom Drophead Coupe - Rolls Royce’s Phantom & Phantom Drophead Coupe are about to be rolled! The two prestigious models, known to be driven by many celebrities and personages, will be available shortly in Vancouver. For more information, please contact The BMW Store.
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Porsche Panamera GTS
BMW X1 BMW has finally revealed the first official images and video of its new compact SAV. Virtually identical to the X1 showcar unveiled at the 2008 Paris motor show, the latest addition to BMW’s X range reinterprets the design cues and practical aspects of its SAV siblings but in a compact package. The small ute is arriving in Europe this fall with four engine options, a gasoline and three diesels. A diesel-powered version got the equivalent of 45.2 mpg across the pond and can hit a top speed of 124 mph.
Aston Martin Compact Car
Porsche’s Panamera lineup is poised to expand as the company is reportedly working on a new diesel variant as well as a high performance GTS. Although little is known about the Panamera GTS, it is expected to be positioned above the Panamera Turbo. This means the GTS will likely boast more than 500 horsepower, which should enable it to beat the 4.0 second 0-60 mph time of the Panamera Turbo. The GTS is also expected to ditch the Turbo’s heavy air suspension system, in favor of traditional coil springs. According to Autocar, Porsche is also considering a dieselpowered Panamera. If such a model were to be built, it would likely adopt a modified version of the Cayenne’s 240 bhp 3.0liter V6 or the Audi A8’s 322 bhp 4.2-liter V8.
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Widened fenders, massive cross-drilled brake discs, and quad tailpipes. The current M5’s 500 bhp 5.0-liter V10 engine will be replaced by the new 555 hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 from the recently introduced X5 M and X6 M. There is speculation that the V8 could be retuned to produce upwards of 600 hp in the M5, but that remains to be seen.
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Aston Martin has developed a new ‘innovative commuter concept car’ called the Cygnet. If you’re thinking it looks like the design team’s placed a downsized Aston Martin grille onto a Toyota iQ, you wouldn’t be far off. The luxury commuter concept, which Aston Martin claims will ‘offer customers a distinctive, intelligent and exclusive solution for urban travel in style and luxury’ is actually based on the diminutive urban runabout and was created in collaboration with the Japanese automaker. Aston Martin Chief Executive Dr Ulrich Bez stated that the concept is “akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht.” The plan is to offer the Cygnet along with the purchase of a DBS, DB9 or Vantage. “Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this first bold step to embark on this special project,” Bez said, “[It] will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market.”
news
New M5 SPIED
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oyce’s ! The es ore
Automotive News
2009.8.28 7:44:24 PM
Mac Motorcycles A collaboration between the UK-based motorcycle design studio Xenophya Design and product designer Ellis Pitt has led to the launch of a new British motorcycle company called Mac Motorcycles. Ellis has collaborated with the team at Xenophya for the past 9 months to design a small range of lightweight, air-cooled singles using the 500cc Buell ‘Blast’ motor in a tubular backbone frame. Ellis explains “Between us we’d designed, modified, built and ridden all sorts of motorcycles over the last 30 years and thought it was time to produce a motorcycle that reflected our philosophy. Our influences have been diverse and we’ve made unusual connections between genres of motorcycles such as choppers, Italian singles from the 1950s, flat-trackers and competition specials.”
Enertia Electric Urban Commuter Bike
Design News
Electricity/Mile: $0.007 Calculated MPG: 373
Citroën GT Concept Headed for Production
Enertia, a new buzzed-about electric urban commuter bike, hit markets last month— surprisingly, at Portland, OR’s Best Buy rather than at a dealership. But the unusual distribution strategy is the least of reasons why the motorcycle is getting all the attention. With stats like 18 horsepower, a top speed of 55 mph, a three-hour charge time and a 45-mile range, it’s the first electric motorcycle to offer a feasible zero-emissions way to run around town. The instrument cluster keeps all relevant information front and center while the USB port allows the rider to download data and tailor the riding experience to their personal usage. Ashland, OR-based company Brammo, the company behind Enertia, clearly don’t intend to replace a real hog with it. Instead, the lightweight extruded aluminum vehicle (280 pounds) represents an entry-level ride for inexperienced and expert users alike, making it the first electric bike with potential to make it big. Priced at $12,000 USD (and with premium design elements geared towards the eco-luxury crowd), it may take a price drop to truly serve as a bike for the people, but it will eventually be at BestBuy stores nationwide—follow the Twitter feed BrammoSays for updates. www.enertiabike.com
The Citroën GT concept is making the leap from the virtual tracks of Gran Turismo 5 to real asphalt. Citroën plans to build just six copies of the GT, and each one will be priced at a cool $1.8 million, according to Autocar. One big question remains--what will be the mid-engine supercar’s powerplant? At its debut last fall at the Paris motor show, the concept was a set of electric motors making a combined 780 hp and was powered by a fuel cell. Citroën sources say the engine will make more than 500 hp and could come from Ford or General Motors. The concept’s sporty styling and extensive use of carbon fiber will be retained. It might even keep some of the unique touches, such as using copper on the interior trim.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
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feature
retains the usual SL-family long-hood, taut tail format, with low roofline and greenhouse slung rearward; it’s a clear progression from the Mercedes-McLaren SLR. An extendable aerofoil preserves the sleek outline when stationary and at low speeds. The roof-mounted doors open by up to 70 degrees, supported by gas-pressure struts.
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Mercedes-Benz has released sketches of the SLS AMG showing its ‘swing-wing’ door layout, an echo of the 300SL Gullwing’s, and its two-seat interior, said to be aircraftinspired. Cockpit features include jet-style air vents, a gear-lever like a thrust control, a center console like a plane’s operating console, and a wide wing-shaped dashboard. This previews the Mercedes cabins of the future, apparently. The exterior outline
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e l y t s e f i L ears G w w w. x e n ova n c o u ve r. c o m
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New Gears
Piano by Audi Design
Audi Design Studio has partnered with Vienna-based piano manufacturer Bösendorfer to create a modern concert grand piano that incorporates the carmaker’s design language. The Grand Piano will be unveiled on next 16 July 2009 at the Audi Forum Ingolstadt to celebrate the brand’s centenary and will be included in Bösendorfer’s catalogue with a price of approximately 100,000 Euros.
HTC Hero
gears
The HTC Hero will be available in Europe starting in July and in Asia later this summer, while a “distinct” North American version will ship later in 2009. With the signature curve at the bottom, the HTC Hero is 4.4 inches tall by 2.2 inches wide and 0.5 inch thick. It features a 3.2-inch HVGA touch screen with an anti-fingerprint screen coating. Under the pretty surface lies the new Sense UI. It allows users to customize the device to their needs and give them more access to the information they want at a glance through widgets, customized profiles, and consolidated views of all communication with a contact, whether it be e-mail, text or multimedia message, Facebook status updates, or photos. Other highlights include GPS, a digital compass, gravity sensor, a 5-megapixel camera, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSD expansion slot.
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Armand Nicolet’s limited edition watches are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The L06 is a limited series of 425 pieces with a movement of Small Seconds UT 176 created in 1951 that has been elaborated giving it more modern and refined technical characteristics. With the new L06, the makers wanted to revise the classical aesthetics by lightly retouching the lines in a more modern version and playing with diverse combinations of materials and colors. www.armandnicolet.com
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The 180-degree bug-eye lens creates distorted images that are even more arty than your usual Lomograph. Plus to the dwindling number of wetchemistry photography fans (including myself) Lomography is something of a fashion-statement all of its own. The camera has bulb setting for long exposures, a multiple-exposure setting, built-in flash and a hotshoe, and is dressed up in trademark Paul Smith stripes. And it’s limited edition, so it’s going for a fashionably high $150. It has a metal body, a fisheye lens with a 180º view, a matching fisheye viewfinder and a bulbous detachable flash which supplements the built-in strobe. And of course, the stripes. www.shop.lomography.com
Sony NAS-Z200iR
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Olympus is celebrating 50 years since the 1959 launch of its ground-breaking PEN 35mm film camera - the first affordable, consumer portable camera and one that Olympus believes was a ground-breaking launch. This week, it launched a digital version broadly based on the original 1959 design. The 12.3Mp Olympus PEN E-P1 is larger than a standard compact digital camera such as a Canon Ixus or a Sony Cyber-shot and has interchangeable lenses. www.olympusamerica.com
gears
The new Sony NAS-Z200iR music system is intended for use with multiple music sources including iPod, Walkman, CDs, phones, radio, etc. Labeled as “do-it-all” compact audio system, the device is able to stream the music library that’s on your PC and Internet radio, thank to its built-in WiFi support. Also comes with a 3.5-inch LCD display remote control for you to sit back and relax for an uninterrupted music listening experience. Other highlights: two independent speaker (20W x 2) and DLNA Certified with Wi-Fi.
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FASHION YOUR SEATBELTS
fashion
Models Jonathan & Kevin of Boys’co Photographer Logan McRae
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fashion
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D E UR
T A FE
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B ENTLEY F LYING S PUR S PEED
12
2009
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“
With 600 bhp and a sports-tuned chassis, the Flying Spur Speed redefines customer expectations of a large, four-
�
door luxury saloon. The performance, handling and agility set new benchmarks.
The front spoiler demonstrates optical finesse and underline the sportive character of the car. The integrated LED daytime running lights and the large air intakes with sporty shaped and fully chromed air inlet grids draw even more attention to the car. At the same time, the
feature
mounted parts optimize the air duct over the car silhouette which leads to a positive effect when handling the automobile. Moreover, the extra down-thrust is generated by the rear lip which perfectly flows into the shape of the boot lid, ensuring constant traction.
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By fitting a sport air filter and specific alterations in motor electronics, the engineers of the refining specialists achieve better response behaviour for the power engine-due to this modification, the torque rises from 750 Nm to 890 Nm at 6,100 rpm.
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2009 BENTLEY FLYING SPUR SPEED Mansory FS speed Full body kit with spoiler WHEELS & TIRES Klassen CFV with custom finishes “Diamond face, black window, black lip” The Speed engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 200mph (322km/h), a zero to 60mph
22” x 9.5 and 22” x10.5 Pirelli Pzero Nero 265/30/22 Fr, 295/25/22 Re SUSPENSION SR Black Label Lowering Linkage
sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and effortless overtaking capability.
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feature
Bentley Flying Spur Speed
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D E R U T A FEHOP
S
news
SR AUTO GROUP SR AUTO GROUP
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SR AUTO GROUP words by Sean Lim photos by Jim Park
O
“The shop resembled nothing close to a typical auto body shop, but more so of an art gallery.”
feature
n the corner of Burrard and 3rd Ave is where the unsuspecting garage of SR Auto Group is located. I must admit that at first, looking in from the outside, I was convinced that it was nothing more than a typical auto body shop hidden away in the alleys of Vancouver. However, the moment I walked in, I realized that I had gotten ahead of myself and judged the book merely by its cover. Amazing would be a complete understatement for this place. From modern art hung on the walls to exotic sports cars on display, the shop resembled nothing close to a typical auto body shop, but more so of an art gallery. Where were all of the mechanics? The grease and grime? I was baffled by what I saw and assumed I made a mistake, but sure enough, the sign said “SR Auto Group.” After entering the shop, I found myself almost instinctively wandering through the gallery of cars. It was intoxicating. From Aston Martin to Audi R8, modified to perfection, the shop was nothing less than a portrayal of every car fanatic’s wet dream. Who knew such a shop existed?
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When entering the shop, it would be a good idea to keep an eye out for the young and ambitious owner of SR Auto Group, Cyrus Wong. Although he may not look it at first glance, Cyrus has built quite an impressive resume of experience working in the car industry. At the age of 17, Cyrus began working for SR Auto Group, formerly known as Revolution, back in 1997 before the eventual merger between the two companies. In 2008, he personally bought out the company from the original owner of SR, starting his own legacy of producing some of Vancouver’s most top of the line car modifications.
Not only was the company organized, but the modifications on the cars also reflected their extensive capabilities to meet each customer’s individual needs. As the industry’s focus has begun to lean more towards esthetic enhancement of cars, rather than the improvement of car performance and speed, many car owners are in search of ways to make their vehicles stand out from others. Curious, I asked Cyrus how their company goes about meeting these unique tastes and requests. With a hint of excitement he explained, “Most of the products we carry are exclusive to Canada. We also carry our own line of wheels that can be customized the way customers want them to be. If you want 5 spokes, we give you 5 spokes. You want colour here or there? We colour it the way you want it.” He pointed out to one of the cars that were on display, showing me the details of the paint job and other modifications that were done by request of their customers. It was quite apparent that they placed a lot of time and effort into satisfying their customers. But his explanations were clear to me from the moment I entered the store, as the cars pretty much spoke for themselves.
feature
Being in the industry for over 10 years now, Cyrus understands and strongly enforces the importance of perfection and meeting customer satisfaction, with every car that comes through their doors. When asked about some of the issues and challenges that the company faces on a daily basis, Cyrus replied confidently, “We come across very few issues, if any at all. One of the main reasons for this is because we like to make sure that every job is done right. We make sure that each employee at this company is in charge of specific, individual duties. This way we can make sure the job is done perfectly and efficiently instead of having one person in charge of multiple duties, which can leave room for error. We work as a team.” I could tell, not only from his
statement, but also by looking around at the shop’s arrangement, that the company was very organized.
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Overall, the shop was immaculate. The shop not only had an impressive overall look, but they also proved that they were capable of producing some very impressive modifications, which clearly stood out from the crowd of everyday vehicles scattered throughout the streets of Vancouver. It was quite apparent to me that if I ever wanted my dream designs on my car to come to life, it would most definitely be the smart choice to come back to SR Auto Group’s shop again.
feature shop’s new products shop
gears
Featured Product
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LOCATIONS & CONTACT INFO
SR Gallery @ Burrard | Vancouver 1757 West 3rd Avenue, Vancouver BC V6J 1K7 Tel (604) 739.7433 Fax (604) 739.7437 Email burrard.info@srautogroup.com Operation Hours 10:00am - 6:00pm PST, Monday - Friday SR Head Office @ Minoru | Richmond 5531 Minoru Boulevard, Richmond BC V6X 2B1 Tel (604) 279.5563 Fax (604) 278.7902 Email richmond.info@srautogroup.com Operation Hours 9:30am - 6:00pm PST, Monday - Friday
shop’s feature new products
news
shop
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COLUMN
“Officer, I’d like to have my car arrested.”
I
t was no less than Richard Hammond, of Top Gear fame, who poignantly noted that “the greatest thing in your life is that you can get out of that car alive.” That car being the now-revered Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. It’s not often that I succumb to popular media and the ramblings of journalistic hacks (myself excepted), whether they be on the BBC or in the local newspaper. And so it was that even as I thumbed through an issue of a certain wellknown American car magazine in which the C63 AMG narrowly defeated its arch-rival BMW M3 in a 4-way comparison test with the now defunct Audi RS4 and the much-maligned Lexus IS-F making up the numbers, I barely registered the significance of what such a victory meant.
column
The reason for my obliviousness had deep roots. It was founded on the principle that if you can’t afford it, it shouldn’t really matter to you. For many years, I had come to accept that Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and AMG versions of such in particular, were priced in the stratosphere and out of reach of mere mortals such as yours truly. And indeed, many of the models in this most storied of marques are truly beyond the reach of the vast majority of the car-buying public. But one must remember also that prices are just numbers. It’s what you get for it that really counts.
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One can’t help but be impressed by the fact that MercedesAMG (as the former independent tuning firm is now known, becoming the official 4th brand within the Daimler Benz group of automobiles) had finally found a way to trump its long-time Bavarian counterpart. This titanic struggle between the German carmakers harks back to a time when Duran Duran were still kind of cool (which might explain why many an M3 driver dresses the way they do, but that’s another column in another issue). But what is truly impressive is that Mercedes-AMG have managed to convince the automotive writers that they should agree with the C-class AMG’s newfound superiority. To do this, the good folks from Affalterbach (home of Mercedes-AMG) needed to find a way to shoehorn a mammoth 6.2 litre V8 engine into the C-class’ en-
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David Wan – The Native Foreigner
gine bay, completely reengineer the car’s suspension and brakes, incorporate a Speedshift version of Mercedes’ own 7G-tronic 7-speed automatic transmission, attach a hand-built Eisenmann exhaust system, and they did all this without breaking the bank. Indeed, the starting price for all this goodness is $63,500, which means that on my measly writer’s salary, I could just about afford one. And so it was that on one gloomy November afternoon when I brought what was then my relatively pedestrian daily commuter (an Audi A3) in for servicing at the rabbit-abundant (and I don’t mean Volkswagen ones) Automall, that I made a small detour into the Mercedes-Benz dealership. I was greeted by a tall, lanky salesperson whom I’ll refer to as John, for no better reason than that being his real name. “Would you be interested in seeing a new car that we have?”, asked John. I shrugged my shoulders and said, “Sure why not?” “This is the new C-class AMG, are you familiar with AMGs?”, John asked. Again, I shrugged, and said, “Yes, somewhat.” John led me to the parking lot and handed me the key to a waiting silver C63 and gestured to me to start it up. Let’s just say that was a mistake. As soon as the engine turned over, I was sold. The car had been sitting outside for a good few hours, and on a cold November day, the sound of the engine and the exhaust as the car burst into life was an ear-opening experience, to say the very least. The bark of the exhaust was enough to convince me I needed this car, and the ensuing test drive only reconfirmed my conviction, with each articulation of the throttle resulting in another explosion of mechanical orgasm.
at alm spell t your d will be low rib
Th But w vigilan the ca up to into th you’ll homic was th when
So car th SO M
Co
What was meant to be a simple tune up and oil change for my little Audi hatchback turned into a cheque-writing afternoon of signing on the dotted line to purchase a 451-bhp torque monster of a 4-door supersedan. But this is why you must be careful if you are in any way inclined to impulse shop. No amount of YouTubing or magazine-reading prepares you for the experience of driving a C63 AMG if you have any pretensions of using the car the way it was meant to be used. The car is so laden with torque
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kes,
ann nk. hich ford
hen uter ’t
anky han a ers
?”,
SURA Korean Cuisine at almost any engine speed that for the uninitiated, it can easily spell trouble should you enter a corner more aggressively than your driving skill dictates, because it is very likely that paramedics will be looking for ways to peel you off the lamp-post like the yellow ribbon on the old oak tree.
Galbi Jjim
This is not to say that the C63 is a dangerous car. Not at all. But what it does ask of you is that you remain always alert, evervigilant, because the 255/35ZR-18 Pirelli P Zeros in the back of the car are only “adequate” when it comes to grip and the rest is up to you, the driver. This is even more true if you should venture into the land of ESP-off. Once there, it is entirely possible that you’ll come to the conclusion that your C63 AMG is completely homicidal. Future iterations of Trivial Pursuit will surely ask who it was that coined the phrase, “an axe-murderer with headlights”, when describing the C63 AMG.
Galbi
So in the words of Richard Hammond, “why would you want a car that’s constantly trying to kill you?” It’s simple: Because it is SO MUCH FUN.
Sweet & Sour Red Snapper
waity that d. na t as he me my other
House Cold “Naengchae” Salad
Comments on this article can be sent to david@xenovancouver.com
1518 Robson St. Vancouver, BC V6G 1C2 For reservations, call
604.687.SURA
r my of nster
nce e car rque
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news
Friday, August 7 The SR Black Tie Event @ SR Auto Richmend
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events
July 1 Canada Day: XENO Magazine Launch @Plaza of Nations
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photos by Jim Park
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events news
photos by Jarvis Ho
Sunday June 28: 8th Annual German Car Festival @Waterfront Park
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Royal 4-door Family Feud
by Sean Lim
It’s Been Lingering In The Back Of Our Minds, But No One Dared To Speak Of The Possibility.
The luxury sports car industry has begun a new trend which allows drivers to have the comfort and convenience of a four-door sedan, while still maintaining the high-end sports performance in their cars. However, why would Lamborghini, Porsche and Aston Martin want to produce these four-door super cars in the first place? Why not continue to make some of the world’s greatest sports coupes? It seems that the super car industry has begun to evolve, and the need to provide for the market of people that demand performance from their cars, but at the same time need the convenience of a four-door family sedan, has increased drastically. But which of these four-door concepts will come out on top among the others? Let’s find out.
review
The new Lamborghini Estoque is an ineffable phenomenon which made its first appearance during the Paris Motor Show in 2008. Estimated at $230 000, the Estoque, measuring at 5.15 metres long, is the result of the evolutionary four-door concept which has become a valuable addition to the Lamborghini series. The new concept comes with the familiar diamond shaped air intake scoops, connected by its lower spoiler, along with its V-shaped nose and clear cut side vents, very much like a hybrid design of its two-door predecessors, the Raventón and Gallardo. Holding a 5.2L V10 engine with 520 hp under its hood, the Estoque is definitely a force to be reckoned with. But how does it stand against Panamera or Rapide?
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m
ity.
The next contender in the four-door battle is the Aston Martin Rapide which was first revealed at the Detroit Auto Show in 2006. Possibly one of the most eagerly awaited cars of 2010, the Rapide is the first of its kind in the Aston Martin series that provides the same elegant, high-powered sports performance as the previous DB9, along with four full-sized seats and a spacious interior. Powered by one of Aston Martin’s 6.0L V12 engine producing 470hp, the Rapide’s rear wheel drive is developed with a highly responsive Touchtronic gearbox. So what makes this Aston Martin different from its previous two-door designs? In terms of appearance, the only difference is that there are two extra doors on the outside and extra seats on the inside. Essentially, the Rapide is pretty much exactly the same shape and design as the DB9. But it is hard to deny, the car looks good either way. Estimated at $260 000 US, the Rapide is anticipated to be one of the top four-door sport sedans available in the market.
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The Porsche Company has been toying with the idea of a four-door 911 for quite some time now, but the idea never materialized. Until now. Acting as the initial catalyst for the four-door war between the Estoque and Rapide, Porsche Panamera brings to the table a remarkable new concept of the luxury sports sedan. Vaguely resembling the Porsche 911, the Panamera comes as an elongated four-door hatchback, making it slightly less pleasing to the eye compared to the Estoque and the Rapide, but stays true to the classic Porsche design. The luxury sports sedan starts with 400hp 4.8L V8 in base models and 500hp in the upgraded Panamera Turbo. With the handling performance of a Porsche and the convenience of modern sedans, the Panamera stands as formidable adversary to the Estoque and the Rapide.
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No. 4 Road
Of course, it is impossible to come up with an accurate conclusion that one of these four-door concepts is better than the other, with two of these cars still in the process of production. But based on the expectations, it is quite clear that there will be significant advantages and disadvantages that differentiate the caliber of each car. Which car will reign champion of this four-door heavy weight bout? In 2010, when these cars have all materialized into our world, why not take one out for a test drive? Then you can be the judge!
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