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GM aims to improve the electric-only range of the next Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid by at least 20 percent.

BMW's rechargeable i8 sports car is entering a soon-to-be-crowded field of supercars with a hint of green. The German automaker, however, isn't worried about competing with Telsa in the niche because BMW says the cars target different buyers.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

Volkswagen built its 10 millionth car in Mexico this month. It was a Beetle.

BMW's rechargeable i8 sports car is entering a soon-to-be-crowded field of supercars with a hint of green. The German automaker, however, isn't worried about competing with Telsa in the niche because BMW says the cars target different buyers.

BMW's rechargeable i8 sports car is entering a soon-to-be-crowded field of supercars with a hint of green. The German automaker, however, isn't worried about competing with Telsa in the niche because BMW says the cars target different buyers.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

The near identical Opel Mokka and Buick Encore represent what GM CEO Dan Akerson is pushing the company to do more of -- leverage scale, drive profits and serve regional tastes.

GM aims to improve the electric-only range of the next Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid by at least 20 percent.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

The near identical Opel Mokka and Buick Encore represent what GM CEO Dan Akerson is pushing the company to do more of -- leverage scale, drive profits and serve regional tastes.

From Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

It was a typical springtime Saturday night - the 18th of May to be precise - when Canada's Toughest Third of a Mile Oval waved the first green flag that would kick-off a new season of action.  From the initial turn of the opening lap, it has been a memorable campaign at Peterborough Speedway.

Long hours and hard work during the off-season by owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse and his team brought new corporate marketing partners and division sponsors into the fold and helped create a renewed sense of enthusiasm at the tight bullring on Mount Pleasant Road, west of the Liftlock City.

Heading into the final point paying event of the year - Saturday, August 24th - a number of positions are still up for grabs in the Battlefield Equipment Rental Four Fun, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stock, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Truck, Paul Davis Systems Thunder Car and Vanguard Self Storage Late Model divisions.

One of the leading contenders for a 2013 championship is Orono, Ontario's Craig Graham.

Mentoring his teenaged son Brandt during the 2012 season at Kawartha Speedway rekindled the desire to compete for the veteran campaigner.  A pair of early season main event victories in the Late Model division and some strong runs throughout the year has the driver of the No. 98 P.J. Larkin Salvage/ Hot Rod Swag/ Motorhead Canada/ SJM Improvements/ L.A. Signs Chevrolet looking to take home the honours at the season finale.

The OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models - for a 50 lap main event - will also be on hand to close out this year's schedule.

Pit gates will open at 2pm for the Saturday, August 24th show, with the spectator grandstands unlocked at 4pm.  The night's first qualifying heat takes the green flag at 6pm. 

Fans can follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and find the full schedule details and latest track news at www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

From Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

It was a typical springtime Saturday night - the 18th of May to be precise - when Canada's Toughest Third of a Mile Oval waved the first green flag that would kick-off a new season of action.  From the initial turn of the opening lap, it has been a memorable campaign at Peterborough Speedway.

Long hours and hard work during the off-season by owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse and his team brought new corporate marketing partners and division sponsors into the fold and helped create a renewed sense of enthusiasm at the tight bullring on Mount Pleasant Road, west of the Liftlock City.

Heading into the final point paying event of the year - Saturday, August 24th - a number of positions are still up for grabs in the Battlefield Equipment Rental Four Fun, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stock, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Truck, Paul Davis Systems Thunder Car and Vanguard Self Storage Late Model divisions.

One of the leading contenders for a 2013 championship is Orono, Ontario's Craig Graham.

Mentoring his teenaged son Brandt during the 2012 season at Kawartha Speedway rekindled the desire to compete for the veteran campaigner.  A pair of early season main event victories in the Late Model division and some strong runs throughout the year has the driver of the No. 98 P.J. Larkin Salvage/ Hot Rod Swag/ Motorhead Canada/ SJM Improvements/ L.A. Signs Chevrolet looking to take home the honours at the season finale.

The OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models - for a 50 lap main event - will also be on hand to close out this year's schedule.

Pit gates will open at 2pm for the Saturday, August 24th show, with the spectator grandstands unlocked at 4pm.  The night's first qualifying heat takes the green flag at 6pm. 

Fans can follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and find the full schedule details and latest track news at www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Top of the heap
Certain brands transcend all others based solely on their history, one rife with exploits that must be sustained in the present via newer and greater ones. If a brand is well-played, like Range Rover, it will grow into something more.

The Range Rover went from an off-road “machine” to a status symbol when the second generation arrived in 1994. By 2002, the Big Rover became a bonafide über luxo SUV, essentially the ultimate expression of panache on four tall wheels.

The new ">2013 Range Rover takes it one step farther with a more refined shape, all the content from previous generations and more, as well as power -- but now with less weight to lug around. This Range Rover Supercharged is the poster boy for the better things in life and the poshest way to cover any kind of terrain quickly -- the perfect car for a Mafia Boss.


What is a Range Rover?
The 2013 Range Rover is the range-topping product from the firm that sells some of the finest and most capable SUVs in the world: Land Rover.

Introduced in 1970, the Range Rover set the standard by which all other SUVs (regular or luxury) are measured. The bar has always been very high where even some of the big-budget carmakers are unable to match it on road or off.

The Range Rover is now in its fourth generation and shares its namesake with the Sport (new model arrives shortly) and the compact Evoque.

The 2013 Range Rover is the range-topping product from the firm that sells some of the finest and most capable SUVs in the world: Land Rover. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Technicalities
The new 2013 Range Rover gets its Supercharged moniker from its twin vortex force-fed 5.0L V8. The result is a ground-shaking 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque.

The Big Rover comes with Range Rover's highly sophisticated Terrain Response 2 Auto system that works the full-time intelligent 4WD. The entire system features a 50/50 torque split and a two-speed transfer box.

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard and may be controlled via wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The base 2013 Range Rover Supercharged retails for $114,750. The top line Autobiography goes for $144,000.

The new 2013 Range Rover gets its Supercharged moniker from its twin vortex force-fed 5.0L V8. The result is a ground-shaking 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

Driving the Range Rover
As anyone would expect, being at the helm of a Range Rover -- the Range Rover -- is quite an event. After pressing the start button, the Drive Select Rotary Shifter rises from the centre console, is turned to D, and the earth becomes a playground.

The electronic air suspension ascends from its Access height to reach its normal setting and immediately the Big Rover demonstrates uncanny poise. The ride comfort is supreme, the feeling of invincibility, intoxicating. From the command position, the driver feels in control and safe. Despite the 21” wheels, the 2013 Range Rover hovers over all civilized terrains.

Even with its massive power and ability to reach 100km/h in 5.3 seconds, the suspension and drivetrain are never overwhelmed. Progress and response are mind-numbing as the surrounding landscape turns to a blur. The 2,330 kg (5,137 lbs) girth all but disappears from the conscious mind as the transmission powers seamlessly through its gears.

If I may fault the electric power steering for its constant over-assistance, I cannot say the same for its massive vented disc brakes. Their force matches that of the engine.

The 2013 Range Rover is not a small vehicle and therefore its manoeuvrability is limited. The steering radius of 12.3 meters is large, but decent for its size. The available Park Assist and Vision Assist packages do help.

With a near even mix of city and highway driving, I averaged 18.5L/100 km.

After pressing the start button, the Drive Select Rotary Shifter rises from the centre console, is turned to D, and the earth becomes a playground. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and out of the Range Rover
As I've stated, the 2013 Range Rover is an event and it all begins the moment we take a look at it. Standing regally on its gorgeous wheels, draped in Fuji White, the Big Rover makes a stately statement while mum's the word.

The new more fluidic bodylines remove some of the Range Rover's previous rugged angles, but the final result is stunning.

The drama further increases as we climb aboard. The materials, fit, and grand black lacquer finish and contrasting interior colours of the tester make the cabin a hard place to leave.

The large front seats, fully adjustable with massaging function, are supremely cosseting. The rear bench is also power-operated and comfortable. These, and ventilated seats all round, are part of the Front & Rear Seat Climate Comfort pack.

The standard level of kit in the 2013 Range Rover is huge; however, selecting the optional 825-Watt Meridian Premium sound system makes the experience that much better.

The rear bench is power-operated and comfortable. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the Range Rover
As the Godfather of the luxury SUV, the 2013 Range Rover Supercharged can take them all on. On any given day, not only the day of the owner's daughter's wedding, it can take on the likes of the Mercedes GL- and G-Class, the Porsche Cayenne, and practically laughs in the face of the Cadillac Escalade.

The Range Rover is a status symbol and looks up to no other.

Toyota has announced the pricing for the different versions of the 2014 Venza, which are now available at Canadian Toyota dealers.

Available with a 2.7 litre 182 hp 4-cylinder engine or a 3.5 litre V6 that produces 268 hp, the Venza is equipped with a sequential 6-speed automatic transmission. Numerous standard features include heated-mirrors with integrated turn signals, convex mirror (for blind spots), floor lighting and an 8-way adjustable power driver seat among others.

Model	Engine	Combined fuel economy (city/highway)	Price
Venza (base)	4-cylinder	9.6L/100 km	$28,695
Venza V6 (base)	V6	8.6L/100 km	$30,495
Venza AWD	4-cylinder	8.8L/100 km	$30,450
Venza AWD V6	V6	9.8L/100 km	$32,250

A number of different equipment packages can be added to the 2014 Venza including XLE, Limited and Limited with Technology Package.

Photo: Toyota

Lexus has chosen the backdrop of the Frankfurt Auto Show to introduce a concept vehicle of which few details have yet been released other than a furtive picture of the driver-side headlight.

The headlight bears a resemblance with those found on the LF-CC Concept, introduced at the Paris Motor Show last fall, which is expected to eventually morph into the new soon-to-be-released RC Coupe. Several sources claim that the vehicle will most likely be in the compact SUV category. Tune in to the September 10th Lexus press conference to find out more.

The European launch of the GS 300h is also planned for Frankfurt. Equipped with the Hybrid 2.5 litre Lexus powertrain, the vehicle offers both lower emissions and improved fuel economy.

Photo: Lexus

Ferrari has chosen the Frankfurt Motor Show for the launch of a souped-up version of the 458 Italia, the 458 Speciale. Equipped with a 597 hp V8, it is the most powerful V8 Ferrari ever.

Performance numbers released by Ferrari have the 458 Speciale accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 3 seconds, while reaching 200 km/h in 9.1 seconds. Top speed has yet to be announced.

Weighing in at 1290 kilograms, the 458 Speciale is equipped with moveable front and rear flaps and lateral skirts for aerodynamic efficiency. A new electronics system called Side Slip Angle Control (SSC), developed by Ferrari, helps maintains skid control.

Pricing for the 458 Speciale has not been published at this point by Ferrari.

Photo: Ferrari

From GMM

Kimi Raikkonen's manager is not ruling out a return to Ferrari for the 2007 world champion.

On Monday, Steve Robertson admitted talks with Red Bull about Raikkonen replacing the Le Mans-bound Mark Webber had been "unsuccessful".

But the 33-year-old Finn, who currently drives for Lotus, has also been linked with a return to Ferrari, despite the Italian team having replaced him with Fernando Alonso with a year to run on his contract at the end of 2009.

Asked if Ferrari is an option, manager Robertson told the BBC: "Until they confirm their seats, my job is to speak to all the teams and see what's available."

Robertson also told Brazil's O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper on Monday that Raikkonen has more than one alternative to Lotus for 2014.

"I'm not worried," he said, "because we have other options -- plural."

Kimi Raikkonen, Lotus E21 (Photo: WRi2)

Brazilian correspondent Livio Oricchio said Red Bull's Christian Horner pushed hard to sign Raikkonen, but Dr Helmut Marko ultimately got his way.

Marko reportedly convinced team owner Dietrich Mateschitz that Red Bull should take young Australian Daniel Ricciardo, because it better balances the lineup alongside the likely reigning quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel.

Ricciardo's signing also proves the worth of the Red Bull junior team Toro Rosso, and gives the next rising youngster, Antonio Felix da Costa, his 2014 debut.

Meanwhile, a post on Twitter by Ferrari's Fernando Alonso might be seen as a return of fire, after Luca di Montezemolo publicly criticised the Spaniard's outbursts in the wake of the recent Hungarian grand prix.

Reverting to the wisdom of the Samurai, Alonso said: "The warrior that uses the sword when insulted cannot be considered brave.

"Brave man does not flinch, because he has higher goals."

From GMM

Deputy boss Claire Williams insists she is "happy" with the Oxfordshire based team's budget for 2014.

Her comments come amid reports many teams on the grid, like Sauber and even the title-charging Lotus, are struggling to survive.

"Our finances are open for everyone to see," Williams, referring to the Grove team's listing on the Frankfurt stock exchange, is quoted by Brazil's Totalrace.

"We have a healthy budget and have done a good job on the business side to ensure that we are in as competitive a situation as possible for next year," she insisted.

Photo: Williams F1 Team

The daughter of team founder and boss Sir Frank Williams, however, said the fact Williams is in a healthy situation does not mean F1 should not do more to level the playing field.

"Williams has always embraced controls in spending," said Williams, "since they began to be implemented in 2009.

"It is very important for the sport.

"We are an independent team and so we can't afford to see costs increase when there is already such discrepancy in terms of (team) budgets.

"We must ensure that we can all compete more equally," she added.

Ferrari has chosen the Frankfurt Motor Show for the launch of a souped-up version of the 458 Italia, the 458 Speciale. Equipped with a 597 hp V8, it is the most powerful V8 Ferrari ever.

Performance numbers released by Ferrari have the 458 Speciale accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 3 seconds, while reaching 200 km/h in 9.1 seconds. Top speed has yet to be announced.

Weighing in at 1290 kilograms, the 458 Speciale is equipped with moveable front and rear flaps and lateral skirts for aerodynamic efficiency. A new electronics system called Side Slip Angle Control (SSC), developed by Ferrari, helps maintains skid control.

Pricing for the 458 Speciale has not been published at this point by Ferrari.

Photo: Ferrari