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Nov
12th

F1: Kimi Raikkonen gifts ”leave me alone” t-shirts to Lotus staff

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From GMM

Kimi Raikkonen has turned his newly-famous grand prix-winning catchphrase into a t-shirt for the entire staff of the Lotus team.

The inimitable 'iceman' thrilled his fans with his radio banter - broadcast live on television - en route to the first win of his F1 comeback recently in Abu Dhabi.

And, to mark the Enstone based team's first win since its works Renault days, Raikkonen memorialised his most famous Abu Dhabi uttering - 'Leave me alone, I know what I'm doing' - on the front of t-shirts for the entire Lotus staff.

F1 Raikkonen Lotus
Photo: Twitter

The 500 t-shirts arrived at Enstone last Friday, according to the BBC.

The 2007 world champion said this week: "I think you can probably find other messages from me in the car if you search Youtube; even from my short time in Nascar."

Lotus team boss Eric Boullier added: "'Leave me alone, I know what I'm doing' has already become a formula one classic!"






Nov
12th

German brands and fuel economy

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The 2012 BMW 328i Sedan is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L engine, good for 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with the optional 8-speed automatic, the 328i delivered an average of just 6.8L/100km over the course of the test.

The 2012 Porsche Panamera Turbo S punches out a glorious 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque from its twin-turbo 4.8L V8. It can reach 100 km/h under 4 seconds thanks, in part, to the traction provided by its all-wheel drive system. I averaged 13L/100km, which is pretty good for such a supercar.

2012 Porsche Panamera Turbo S engine
Photo: Sébatien D'Amour

Almost as remarkable was the 14L/100km fuel consumption average obtained in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG, which boasts a twin-turbo 5.5L V8 that generates 518 hp and 516 lb-ft.

Last year, I drove a 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueTEC, which is equipped with a 3.0L turbodiesel V6 that developed 210 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. In my hands, it averaged just 7.9L/100km.

During a recent test of the 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI, I averaged 7.2L/100km compliments of its 2.0L turbodiesel four that churns out 140 hp and 236 lb-ft.

Matt's test of the 2012 Porsche Panamera S Hybrid, a 380-hp sedan motivated by a supercharged 3.0L V6 and an electric motor, was highlighted by his impressive result of 8.5L/100km.

Even in our recent review of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which is powered by a 3.0L turbodiesel V6 good for 188 hp and 325 lb-ft, we reported an average of 13L/100km, a non-negligible result for companies and fleets.

Without an abusive amount of eco-driving or cruising on the highway at only 60 km/h, these German vehicles delivered great fuel economy. With the help of start/stop systems, alternator decoupling and many other energy-saving techniques, in addition to good old low-rpm torque, it is possible to match or come close to NRCan's published fuel economy ratings.

Yet none of these vehicles sacrifice a great deal of performance or require a change in driving habits to achieve these numbers. That is what's most impressive.
Nov
12th

F1: Giedo Van der Garde refutes Caterham announcement imminent

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From GMM

Giedo van der Garde has played down reports he is set to be imminently unveiled as a Caterham race driver for 2013.

The well-backed Dutchman, who this year contested the GP2 championship for Tony Fernandes' team, has also been Caterham's reserve driver in 2012 and has recently been driving the green CT01 in Friday morning practice sessions.

Rumours last week, as van der Garde tested the Caterham in Abu Dhabi, suggested the 27-year-old is now on the cusp of securing a full race drive for 2013.

Caterham F1 Giedo Van der Garde
Giedo Van der Garde à Abu Dhabi. (Photo: Caterham F1 Team)

"Discussions are ongoing," van der Garde is quoted by the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

"On both sides there is the intention to keep working together, and I hope to have clarity within two to three weeks."

Because Caterham stands to lose millions in Concorde Agreement earnings due to falling behind Marussia in the constructors' championship, it is rumoured van der Garde could oust the team's highly rated paid driver Heikki Kovalainen.

And according to speculation, Frenchman Charles Pic is the favourite to replace Vitaly Petrov, whose Russian funding has reportedly dried up.


Nov
12th

Redesigned 2013 Honda Civic preps for L.A. debut

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The new 2013 Honda Civic sedan sports a fresh, more youthful look that's bound to attract more fans than the outgoing model. It will officially debut on November 29th at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Horizontal chrome strips on the front and rear fascias, a sportier-looking front grille, newly designed taillights, new integrated fog lights on upper trims, as well as improvements to comfort, safety and interior design make the 2013 Honda Civic a heavy hitter -- and an exciting evolution of the No. 1 nameplate in Canada.

Look for it in showrooms starting this December 10th. Pricing has yet to be revealed.

2013 Honda Civic front 3/4 view
Photo: Honda

2013 Honda Civic rear 3/4 view
Photo: Honda

Nov
12th

F1: HRT Spanish Formula 1 team up for sale

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From HRT

The current owners of HRT Formula 1 Team, Thesan Capital II S.a.r.l., would like to confirm that they are currently in talks with a number of groups interested in buying the team.

HRT Formula 1 Team's current management hopes to conclude the sale in the upcoming weeks and, with it, enable the team to continue progressing and become a reference in modern-day Formula 1 after the important achievements already accomplished in this 2012 season.

HRT Formula 1 Team hopes to communicate the name of its new owner in the upcoming weeks.

F1 HRT
Photo: HRT F1 Team

According to the HRT Formula 1 Team management, "we believe the moment to let new investors come through for HRT Formula 1 Team has arrived. We're very proud of the work done by the entire team and of the excellent sporting evolution achieved but the time has come for the team to continue growing with new financial backing. We're convinced that the sporting potential of the team is huge and that the presence of new investors can give it a big boost”.

HRT was originally created for the 2010 season by ex-Formula 1 driver Adrian Campos to enter as Campos Meta. But it changed owners before the start of the season and became Hispania Racing Team, and it was sold again to be renamed HRT.


Nov
12th

F1: Pirelli names Adrian Sutil and Kamui Kobayashi as F1 tester candidates

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From GMM

Paul Hembery has named a trio of potential candidates to be F1 tyre supplier Pirelli's test driver in 2013.

The Briton, who is the head of the Italian marque's F1 programme, confirmed that Brazilian Lucas di Grassi's testing contract runs to the end of next year.

"Lucas does a great job for us. After next year his continuation depends on our decision to stay or not in 2013," Hembery told Brazil's Totalrace.

Jaime Alguersuari was the other Pirelli tester in 2012, but the former Toro Rosso racer is hoping to return to a race seat next season.

"In addition to Lucas, we are evaluating other names in the market like (Adrian) Sutil and Alguersuari."

German Sutil, however, clearly has plans to race next year. After a season on the bench in 2012, the former Force India driver has updated his official website with the words "Next destination: Australia".

F1 Pirelli Renault R30 Lucas di Grassi
Lucas di Grassi aboard the Renault R30 Pirelli. (Photo: Pirelli)

What about Kamui Kobayashi? According to strong rumours, the Japanese could be replaced at Sauber by the Telmex-backed Esteban Gutierrez, or the impressive rookie Dutchman Robin Frijns.

"It's a possibility," said Hembery. "We'll see what happens with him (Kobayashi). I imagine he's still trying to get a (race) seat, so we'll wait."

Paul Hembery had even recently mentioned Michael Schumacher's name as a possible Pirelli tester.

"I tried in Japan to convince him," he smiled, "but it didn't work. I think he wants to go skydiving or something!"


Nov
12th

F1: Jacques Villeneuve still ”angry” with the DRS

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From GMM

Jacques Villeneuve has admitted he is no fan of 'DRS', the moveable rear wing innovation that for the past two seasons has made passing much easier in formula one.

The critics of the 'drag reduction system', however, say it only creates artificial racing, and indeed often deprives the sport of many genuine head-to-heads.

"Every time I see DRS I get angry," 1997 world champion Villeneuve told Switzerland's Motorsport Aktuell.

F1 Michael Schumacher Mercedes DRS
DRS open on Michael Schumacher's Mercedes. (Photo: WRi2)

"It destroys every good battle. What also annoys me is the rule about only changing your line once. That's the worst one of all," said the 41-year-old former Williams, BAR and BMW driver.

"The rule should be that blocking is not allowed -- that's it," added Villeneuve.

He is therefore critical of the 'new generation' of F1 drivers, saving particular rebuke for Romain Grosjean, who Villeneuve alleges is "totally of control".

"Or what Maldonado did to Hamilton in Valencia," he added.

Jacques Villeneuve blames some of that culture on the high standards of today's circuits.

"Today, where the run-off used to be grass, now it's paved. But that (the grass) often made you withdraw automatically. Now many are pushing without thinking. The young drivers coming into formula one today are not ready. Playing video games all day, they've forgotten that motor sport is dangerous."


Nov
12th

2012 Lexus CT 200h Review

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Let it be known: Today's Canadian shopper is after a flexible, upscale and highly fuel-efficient small car that has plenty of options. One of them is the Lexus CT 200h.

An entry-level hybrid from the world's most successful premium hybrid brand, it ticks all the mandatory boxes where versatility and efficiency are concerned. The 2012 Lexus CT 200h is also a little on the sporty side, and very lifestyle-ready.

2012 Lexus CT 200h

Total Package
Over the course of a week, I enjoyed the CT's good maneuverability, great headlight performance in after-dark driving, and smooth power delivery. The nicely trimmed interior feels upscale and rich, and the modern displays and instruments and readouts create a fresh, dynamic flare.

Included in the 2012 Lexus CT 200h were a sunroof, high-intensity LED headlamps, navigation, Bluetooth, a backup camera, a full leather interior, a driver computer and a touch-pad activated central-command system. The latter enables the manipulation of hundreds of controls with little more than a few millimeters of finger movement.

Of course, the real important list of goodies for mileage-minded shoppers is largely under the 2012 Lexus CT's skin.

2012 Lexus CT 200h interior
The latter enables the manipulation of hundreds of controls with little more than a few millimeters of finger movement. (Photo: Justin Pritchard)

Synergy Drive

At its heart is the Lexus Hybrid Drive system, which consists of both a lightweight aluminum 1.8L gasoline engine and an electric motor. This setup allows both gas and electric propulsion systems to take turns powering the vehicle, or to combine their efforts, depending on the situation.

The CT 200h can cruise in low-speed and low-load situations strictly on stored power. In drive-thru lines, parking lots, residential areas and rush-hour traffic, the gasoline engine rarely needs to run. Drivers can even engage an Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, forcing electric-only operation in anticipation of short, low-speed trips.
You get those rewarding, smugly satisfying, fuel-free moments on each and every drive in the 2012 Lexus CT 200h. With numerous displays, gauges and light-up indicators, the CT also keeps drivers well apprised of what its hybrid drive system is up to.

A generator driven by the gas engine automatically recharges the batteries as needed, as does energy captured during braking. So, you don't plug the CT in when you get home at night, and it'll never let its drive battery drain to empty.

CVT, VVT
Features like variable valve timing (VVT) work to optimize efficiency and output whenever the gas engine is running in the 2012 Lexus CT 200h. Total system output is rated at a modest, but responsive, 134 horsepower, with decent low-end torque available for on-demand acceleration.

The CT 200h's slick and seamless CVT transmission helps here, too. With no pre-set gears, it functions as an automatic transmission that delivers engine power in a smooth and endless surge. In most situations, revs stay virtually stationary as the vehicle accelerates. This enhances refinement, eliminates the sensation of shifting, and helps deliver improved responsiveness and mileage.

The drive-by-wire throttle system in the 2012 Lexus CT 200h even smooths throttle inputs in its “NORMAL” or “ECO” drive modes to run the engine more smoothly and efficiently. Dial up “SPORT” from the selector, and throttle responses are exaggerated making the CT 200h more responsive and eager. In this mode, the instrument cluster accent lighting turns red, and the power output meter changes into a tachometer. Slick.

It's a smooth, relaxed driving experience all around in the 2012 Lexus CT 200h.

2012 Lexus CT 200h front view
Total system output is rated at a modest, but responsive, 134 horsepower.(Photo: Justin Pritchard)

Gripes
Complaints? I wished for a bit more throttle response in non-SPORT modes; wind noise was higher than expected; and the sport suspension calibrations combined with the poorly maintained roads of my home town made for an often stiff, busy ride in the 2012 Lexus CT 200h. Also, a fairly shallow rear hatch area left me wishing for a bit more cargo room at times.

After 1,400 kilometers with the CT 200h, I'd managed an overall test average of 6.2L/100km. Relative to hundreds of other vehicles tested in my locale, and with my driving habits, I was delighted with the result. Yours will vary.

The TDI Factor
Incidentally, 6.2L/100km is exactly the same as I achieved in a Volkswagen Jetta TDI -- which boasts improved fuel economy by way of the fuel itself, rather than with electric motors and batteries.

In the TDI, I enjoyed liquid-smooth, torque-rich performance, great ride quality, and lightning fast DSG-actuated gearshifts. In the 2012 Lexus CT 200h, the cabin's look and feel, combined with the constant, real-time stream of information about the hybrid drive system were among my favourite aspects. Ditto for the ability to dial in extra greenness or extra sportiness when desired.

Both machines are quiet; both drive and operate like normal cars; both are smooth and refined; and both are luxurious and nice to look at (depending on equipment, of course). Get a Golf Wagon, and both are flexible and roomy, too. In many real-world circumstances, both will turn in the same mileage.

Again; choices.

Which one is better? That's up to you. I recommend test drives of both to help you decide for yourself.
Nov
12th

Are you prepared for the upcoming winter?

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According to a survey by Goodyear, North American drivers may not be well prepared for the upcoming winter -- even though most think they are.

While over 75 % admit that winter tires make a real difference on the road, 58% of drivers in cold-weather regions choose to make do without them.

The survey also reveals that 23% of drivers wait until the first storm to put on winter tires instead of doing it ahead of time. Even more shocking, one out of four is unaware of the importance of putting winter tires on all four wheels!

Quebec has seen a 5% reduction in the number of crash victims since making winter tires mandatory in 2008.

In addition to relying on a good set of winter tires, Goodyear recommends all drivers to regularly check their tire pressure, clear all snow from their vehicle, and reduce their speed on the road.

winter road
Photo: Matthieu Lambert


Nov
12th

F1: Test driver Jules Bianchi tests Ferrari improvements

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From GMM

Scuderia Ferrari is still pushing hard to give Fernando Alonso a title-winning Ferrari for the final back-to-back head-to-head with Sebastian Vettel.

With Red Bull and Vettel's qualifying problems allowing Alonso to claw back 3 points in Abu Dhabi, the Spaniard is still 10 points adrift with just Austin and Brazil to go.

And with the red F2012 still not a match for the Adrian Newey-penned RB8, Alonso said after finishing second in Abu Dhabi: "We need to keep working and in Maranello they work day and night to bring new parts."

Indeed, the Spanish sports daily Marca reports that, following two similar straightline aerodynamic outings recently, Ferrari has been back in action at the Idiada facility in Spain.

At the wheel of the car was Frenchman Jules Bianchi, who as well as being Force India's test driver is also in Ferrari's development 'academy'.

F1 Ferrari Korea
The two Ferrari in Korea. (Photo: WRi2)

Marca said Bianchi was testing a new rear wing and diffuser, while other Spanish reports said the F2012 featured even more new parts than that.

"With Fernando, you don't have to give him the best car," Marc Gene, another Ferrari test driver, told El Confidencial.

"You just have to give him one with which he can fight the best car, and he will do the rest.

"The team is working hard to give him the best car possible."


Nov
12th

Lamborghini presents new Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster

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After selling over 1,300 copies of its new Aventador coupe since last summer, Lamborghini is finally introducing the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster.

Featuring an ultra-lightweight, two-piece retractable roof made entirely from carbon fibre, the car is available in several body colours including ''Azzuro Thetis,'' a very light, metallic blue colour whose tone varies with the angle of the light. It recalls the shade of the 1968 Miura Roadster.

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster also sports new Dione 20”/21” rims with an aggressive look, not to mention a 700-horsepower 6.5L V12 engine that delivers 0-100km/h acceleration in 3 seconds flat. Now that will make a mess out of your hair!

The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster can be ordered at any Lamborghini dealer across the globe for the price of €300,000, excluding taxes, which is roughly $400,000. Get your lottery tickets ASAP!

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster side view
Photo: Lamborghini


Nov
12th

2013 Auto123.com Awards

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Our 4th annual Awards party is only a few days away.

Last week, we tabulated the votes entered by our panel of 10 journalists from across Canada and came up with the following list of finalists detailed in alphabetical order.

On Wednesday, at noon, the winners will be unveiled. Can you guess who will win?

2013 Auto123.com Awards

SUBCOMPACT CAR
Ford Fiesta Hatchback / Sedan
Hyundai Accent Hatchback / Sedan
Kia Rio / Rio 5-door

COMPACT CAR
Chevrolet Cruze
Ford Focus Hatchback / Sedan / Electric
Hyundai Elantra Sedan / GT / Coupe

MIDSIZE CAR
Ford Fusion
Honda Accord Coupe / Sedan
Kia Optima

FULL-SIZE CAR
Chrysler 300
Dodge Charger
Hyundai Genesis Sedan

WAGON
Subaru Outback
Toyota Venza
Volkswagen Golf Wagon

CONVERTIBLE
BMW M3 Cabriolet
Mazda MX-5
Porsche Boxster

COMPACT UTILITY
Ford Escape
Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Subaru XV Crosstrek

MIDSIZE UTILITY
Jeep Grand Cherokee / SRT8
Kia Sorento
Volkswagen Touareg

FULL-SIZE UTILITY
Ford Flex
Nissan Armada
Toyota Sequoia

VAN
Chrysler Town & Country
Dodge Grand Caravan
Honda Odyssey

PICKUP

Ford F-150
Honda Ridgeline
Ram 1500

SPORTS CAR
Ford Shelby GT500
Scion FR-S
Subaru BRZ

LUXURY COMPACT CAR
BMW 3 Series Sedan
Cadillac ATS
Volvo S60

LUXURY MIDSIZE CAR
BMW 5 Series
Lexus GS
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe / Sedan / Wagon

LUXURY LARGE CAR
Audi A8
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Porsche Panamera

LUXURY COMPACT UTILITY
Acura RDX
Range Rover Evoque
Volvo XC60

LUXURY MIDSIZE UTILITY
Acura MDX
Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Porsche Cayenne

LUXURY LARGE UTILITY
Audi Q7
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
Cadillac Escalade

PRESTIGE

Audi R8 Coupe / Spyder
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG / Roadster
Porsche 911 Carrera

GREEN VEHICLE

Ford Focus Electric
Nissan LEAF
Volkswagen Jetta TDI

Nov
12th

Porsche to reveal new Cayman at L.A. show?

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Porsche has just announced the world premiere of a compact sports car for the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The new model, which many industry insiders believe is the future Cayman, is scheduled to debut at 12:05 pm on November 28th at the Porsche stand inside the Petree Hall.

The L.A. show will also mark the American premiere of the 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4, expected to arrive in Canada early next year.

The U.S. is the world's largest Porsche market, and these two additions could give the manufacturer a significant boost.
Nov
12th

Rally: Loeb wins rally of Spain

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Sebastien Loeb (Citroen) ended hid last full WRC season the best way, as he takes win in the last round of the season in Spain.

After he took the lead on Saturday morning, after Mads Ostberg went off in ES8, Loeb concluded the first day with an advantage of 27 seconds over his closest follower, Jari-Matti Latvala (Ford).

Loeb hold the pressure from Latvala on the last day, and maintained his lead until the finish. Latvala was only seven seconds behind Loeb, and confirms his progress on tarmac roads. Third position went to Mirko Hirvonen (Citroën) who concluded the event 1,46 minutes behind. Mads Ostberg takes fourth position, but dropped down to 4th position in final championship classification behind Latvala.

WRC Citroen Sebastien Loeb
Photo: WRC

Ott Tanak went off and retired with two stages remaining, while fighting for a podium finish.

Rallye of Spain - Final classification:
1. Loeb-Elena (Citroen DS3 Wrc) in 4.14'29”1
2. Latvala-Anttila (Ford Fiesta RS Wrc) + 7”0

3. Hirvonen-Lehtinen (Citroen DS3 Wrc) + 1'46”8
4. Ostberg-Andersson (Ford Fiesta RS Wrc) + 1'56”4
5. Nikara-Kalliolepo (Mini Cooper Wrc) + 16'07"9

6. Breen-Nagle (Ford Fiesta S2000) + 18'10”4

7. Atkinson-Prevot (Mini Cooper Wrc) + 19'14”7

8. Andersson-Axelsson (Proton Satria Neo S2000) + 20'16"1
9. Sordo-Del Barrio (Mini Cooper Wrc) + 25'40"6

10. Novikov-Minor (Ford Fiesta RS Wrc) + 25'46”6
Etc.

Championship (final):
1. Loeb 270 points, 2. Hirvonen 213, 3. Latvala 154, 4. Ostberg 149, 5. P. Solberg 124, etc.


Nov
12th

F1: Jacques Villeneuve wonders why Mercedes AMG let Michael Schumacher go

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From GMM

Canadian Jacques Villeneuve says he does not think Mercedes has made the right choice in pairing Lewis Hamilton with Nico Rosberg next year.

The 1997 world champion does not, however, question the German marque's decision to poach Hamilton from McLaren.

Instead, Villeneuve wonders about his former title nemesis Michael Schumacher's exit.

"Why is he stopping?" the 41-year-old told Switzerland's Motorsport Aktuell.

"I don't understand. Hamilton-Schumacher would be much better than what they do have for next year," the outspoken Villeneuve insisted.

F1 Michael Schumacher Mercedes AMG
Michael Schumacher, Mercedes AMG. (Photo: WRi2)

But German Rosberg insists he is "very happy" with how he has compared against the great Schumacher since 2010, even though the pairing have been more closely matched this season.

"It's true that Michael has had bad luck, but so have I," Rosberg told Germany's Auto Bild.

And in their qualifying head-to-head in 2012, Schumacher and Rosberg have been very evenly matched.

"As far as qualifying is concerned, there is nothing special to say about it," Rosberg insisted.

"For three years I have had the upper hand, which is more than I had expected at the beginning. I am very happy with it," he added.


Nov
12th

Weekly Recap on Auto123.com: 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid first drive

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2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid First Impressions
Ford C-MAX Hybrid 2013

2013 Infiniti JX35 Review
Infiniti JX35 2013

2014 Audi R8 First Impressions
Audi R8 2014

Other very interesting topics:

Nov
12th

NASCAR: Kevin Harvick wins and Keselowski takes point lead in Phoenix chaos

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While Kevin Harvick was ending a 44-race winless drought, and Brad Keselowski was taking the Sprint Cup points lead, there was chaos all around them at Phoenix International Raceway.

The race was taking a measured pace with Kyle Busch, who ended up third behind teammate, Denny Hamlin, in control until lap 235 when Jimmie Johnson's car, then running seventh, slid up into the wall in turn four causing serious damage to his Chevrolet. Goodyear says a melted bead from brake heat caused Johnson's right front to go down and send him into the wall.

NASCAR Jimmie Johnson
Jimmie Johnson's car. (Photo: NASCAR)

Unlike the miracle of Kansas; Johnson's car had to be taken to the garage for repairs. Johnson rejoined the race on lap 274, 38 laps down. Crew chief Chad Knaus said, "I don't know that we're going to get anything out of it, but what the hell."

That was only the beginning. With only a few laps to go a simmering feud between Jeff Gordon and Clint Bowyer boiled over after a minor brush.

Gordon car lost a tire and he blamed Bowyer. The four-time champion waited for Bowyer to come around and retaliated but crashed both and Joey Logano was caught up in it. But that wasn't the end.

NASCAR Jeff Gordon Clint Bowyer Joey Logano
Joey Logano caught in the fight between Jeff Gordon (24) and Clint Bowyer (15). (Caption: NASCAR)

The pit crews erupted like a bench clearing wrestling match in hockey followed by Bowyer running towards Gordon's hauler but was stopped by NASCAR officials.

Bowyer got out of his damaged car and ran over to Gordon's hauler also, but, never was personally involved in the tussle.



But he said "it's pretty embarrassing for a four-time champion and what I consider one of the best the sport has ever seen to act like that is just completely ridiculous."

Gordon said "Things just got escalated over the year, and I'd just had it. Clint has run into me numerous times, wrecked me, and he got into me on the back straightaway and pretty much ruined our day.  I've had it, fed up with it and I got him back."

NASCAR officials have said that there will be no immediate response but they will review tapes of the incident.

The race went yellow on lap 312 and was red-flagged for 15 minutes setting up a green-white checkered finish.

Harvick had taken the lead but there was a question of could he finish the race in overtime with limited fuel?

"I just wanted to get a good restart and be able to get into Turn 1 and not have any mistakes and knew if we could get through there without any mistakes that we could at least have a fighting chance of taking control of the bottom of the racetrack in Turn 3 and 4," Harvick said.

On the final restart Danica Patrick, having the best race of her ten-race foray into Sprint Cup, was clipped by Jeff Burton causing an even bigger wreck, including being struck by Paul Menard causing her to go airborne but no yellow was thrown. She wasn't injured.

"We survived," a relieved Keselowski said after finished sixth in a damaged car. "No guarantees but glad to have the points lead."

NASCAR Brad Keselowski Phoenix Ryan Newman
Brad Keselowski sixth alongside Ryan Newman who passed the finish line in reverse. (Photo: NASCAR)

After the race Jimmie Johnson handled the bad luck well when he said "it's way, way out of our control right now. Anything can happen. Hate for it to happen this way he said. As I was coming off turn four it went down, where it went down I had a direct line into the wall."

Harvick complained of NASCAR "they were really quick to throw the caution then they let us race through the oil. There was more oil on the track than asphalt."

Denny Hamlin said the track was "treacherous" due to hard tires. Then speaking about the condition of the track at the end, "There was a lot of stuff on the track; Ray Charles could have seen that."

NASCAR public relations tweeted "we didn't see any fluid or anything, she (Patrick) rode around on the apron, and when she pulled up on the track, there was smoke, it looked like tire smoke. It's easy to look back on it obviously and wish that you did something different, but at the time it didn't appear like there was any fluid that was coming out of the car."

All Keselowski needs to do to clinch his first Sprint Cup title and Roger Penske's Sprint Cup is to finish 15th or better at the finale at Homestead next week.


Nov
11th

Piech could stay for another 5-7 years as VW chairman, report says

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Volkswagen Chairman Ferdinand Piech could stay at the helm of Europe's largest carmaker beyond the term he was granted earlier this year, he told a German paper.
Nov
11th

Piech may stay on as VW chairman; sees room for expansion

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Volkswagen patriarch Ferdinand Piech said he may stay on as VW chairman beyond his current term and he sees room for the automaker to expand further.
Nov
11th

GM, wooing China’s affluent, preps Cadillac makeover

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To win over China's affluent consumers and help establish Cadillac as a bonafide global luxury brand alongside BMW, Mercedes and Audi, GM is tweaking the venerable marque's styling.
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