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From GMM

F1 teams on Friday were admitting concerns with next year's unprecedentedly-long 22-race calendar.

Three races on the calendar are only provisional, and existing agreements between the teams and Bernie Ecclestone have set a cap of 20 races.

Indeed, F1 chief executive Ecclestone has said he thinks the calendar will be trimmed, which will please Red Bull boss Christian Horner.

"I think we all recognise that 22 races is beyond the limit," he said in Korea.

In fact, with a winter test in Bahrain, and the return of in-season testing, the 2014 schedule - featuring an unique Monaco-New Jersey-Canada 'triple header' - was described as "impossible" by Ferrari team manager Massimo Rivola.

"Let's see the real calendar and then we'll figure it out," he said.

Photo: WRi2

Christian Horner agrees that 20 races is "saturation point" for F1's increasingly hard-working travelling circus.

McLaren's Martin Whitmarsh identified New Jersey as one race that could fall by the wayside, because "there's not much going on" at the proposed street circuit site.

The Korean race promoter has put the chance of a 2014 race at "50-50", while Mexico is racing against time to substantially upgrade its ageing track, last used for a grand prix in 1992.

"We'll wait until the calendar has been ratified before we put any resource into understanding exactly how we will deal with it," said Andy Stevenson, Sahara Force India's team manager.

This vehicle reminds me of a young stockbroker I once knew in London, England: a street-smart kid who worked his way up from quite humble beginnings to eventually become a Savile Row suited & booted executive. Quite an achievement, yet underneath the smart exterior he was still a young tearaway at heart, and could be a right little hooligan on a Friday night!


What is a Subaru WRX STI
To many, Subaru is a trusted purveyor of fine/reliable AWD automobiles. While this is unquestionably true, there are perhaps just as many who view the company solely as the maker of one of the greatest rally products the world has ever known: the exceptional Subaru WRX STI.

Designed with one purpose in mind, to excite, the WRX STI has long been the halo car of the rally video-playing younger generation. Its rallying heritage speaks for itself, and as a road car, its rivals are rather few and far between.

Yes, the WRX STI is the wild child of the Subaru brand, powered by the now-famous turbocharged 2.5L Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC), 16-valve BOXER engine (305 hp), and designed with the single purpose of bringing full-blown automotive entertainment to its driver. Whether you choose the sedan or the equally sporty hatchback version (the Tsurugi Edition is only available in the 4-door sedan), both come with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, performance suspension and a Multi-Mode Driver-controlled Center Differential version of Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Designed with one purpose in mind, to excite, the WRX STI has long been the halo car of the rally video-playing younger generation. (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition Price & Specs
Exclusive to Canada, the Tsurugi Edition is a bit special, even in the world of the STI. With its luxurious leather-embroidered sports seats, distinct 18” Enkei Wheels and its trunk-mounted 10” Kicker® subwoofer, it brings a new level of sophistication to the range.

Perhaps the best way to describe the Tsurugi Edition is this: It sits there all sweet and innocent while the standard WRX STI shouts loudly at passersby (including local law enforcement officers), “Check out that monster rear spoiler of mine!” The Tsurugi, on the other hand, is perhaps the slightly wiser brother of the line-up, confident in its appearance, and yet just as sure of its capabilities. It's a sleeper, no question about it!

The 2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition is available now and priced at $41,495, but be quick as there are only limited numbers coming to Canada.

With its luxurious leather-embroidered sports seats, distinct 18” Enkei Wheels and its trunk-mounted 10” Kicker® subwoofer, it brings a new level of sophistication to the range. (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

Driving the 2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition
Power up the Tsurugi Edition and you instantly realize you're in something special. A WRX STI doesn't beg respect, it grabs you by the scruff of your neck and positively demands it. One tap of the happy pedal proves this, as the rev counter zings faster than anyone's eyes can focus.

With three setup levels available (Sport/Auto/Sport-Sharp) together with adjustment for front/rear bias, there's a suitable setting for any given driving situation. However, be warned, as the Sport-Sharp mode is more addictive than nicotine. Simply put, grab a hefty foot of throttle and the 2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition takes off like a deranged panther (0-100km/hr in 5.4 seconds).

However, fortunately the steering and handling characteristics are such as to maintain control of the wild beast on any surface, and those Brembo brakes (standard fitment) work like a ship's anchor. Yes, this is one of those cars you don't want to tease at the traffic lights, as it will chew most vehicles up and spit them out!

With three setup levels available (Sport/Auto/Sport-Sharp) together with adjustment for front/rear bias, there's a suitable setting for any given driving situation. (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

Inside and Out of the 2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition
The luxurious leather interior and its slightly subdued exterior rather dramatically alter the Tsurugi. Yes, it's still a highly potent WRX STI underneath, but it now feels slightly more mature. Its lack of tail spoiler is not only noticed in the rearview mirror, but also in the absence of young hopeful (and somewhat foolish) challengers on the road. It is perhaps the automotive connoisseur's version of the WRX STI, and viewed as such. I very much like the 2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition.

The luxurious leather interior and its slightly subdued exterior rather dramatically alter the Tsurugi. (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

Comparing the 2014 Subaru WRX STI Tsurugi Edition
In truth, the WRX STI has very little in the way of competition (its main rival being the Mitsubishi Evolution). However, the Tsurugi Limited Edition could alter things slightly in the sense that one or two (possibly higher-priced) German car buyers may now be tempted to check out their local Subaru dealer.

Not everyone is affected by the same noises. For some, a jackhammer is irritating; others simply can't stand Justin Bieber. Personally, one of the worst sources of noise pollution is a car that beats to the sound of a massive audio system with subwoofers blasting decibels out the windows.

Don't get me wrong: I love music -- a lot, actually. However eclectic my own tastes may be, I don't listen to my favourite songs with the volume cranked to the max -- for numerous reasons.

One's freedom ends where another's begins
Don't put people through the same ordeals that you wouldn't want to go through yourself. When I can hear your “boom-boom-boom” coming from five blocks away, you've definitely crossed a line.

I understand that some folks like their music to play loud, but there's a place for that, and I'm just as entitled to enjoy a quiet environment as you are to test the limits of your speakers and eardrums.

I, for one, am quick to turn up the volume whenever I hear a good song on the radio; however, I'm considerate of people around me, and I never exceed a reasonable level of noise, let alone keep the windows down.

When I'm patiently waiting at an intersection and my seat suddenly starts to vibrate due to the sound waves of another driver's stereo, I can't wait for the light to turn green and that unbearable racket to fade into oblivion.

It's the same thing at home. How unpleasant is it to have my coffee cup start to shake when a subwoofer-powered car flies down my street -- or even the next one? The worst, of course, is being woken up in the middle of a good night's sleep by these disrespectful drivers.

Hearing is a precious thing
Sure, in my teenage years, I used to listen to my yellow Sony Walkman not thinking about potential damage to my hearing. Now that I've become older and wiser, I just can't tolerate even the tiniest excess of noise. Am I suffering from hyperacusis and paying for my past mistakes? Maybe. That's exactly what I try to teach my sons: Listening to unreasonably loud music all the time can cause permanent damage. They think they know it all because they're 15 and 12, so I have a hard time convincing them.

In Part 2 of this blog, I will focus on the consequences of cranking up the volume both from a health and legal standpoint.

Photo: Philippe Champoux

Looking to expand its operations and develop new models, Tesla Motors will soon rely on Samsung as a battery supplier. Negotiations are underway, although no details have been provided.

"We continually evaluate the best battery cells and technologies from all manufacturers," a Tesla spokeswoman, Liz Jarvis-Shean, told Automotive News.

Sources claim that an agreement could be reached to supply batteries for the upcoming Tesla Model X. However, a few matters still need to be discussed, like Samsung insisting that Tesla buys other components including touch screens.

Tesla Model X. (Photo: Tesla)

Apparently, the South Korean company is also talking with Tesla about another future product due for a launch in 2017.

Source: Autonews

From GMM

Niki Lauda did not sound convinced about the legality of Red Bull's car as rumours of illegal traction control echo around the Yeongam paddock.

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso on Thursday, however, insisted he does not think the reigning world champions are cheating.

"People talk a lot without knowing exactly what they are seeing or hearing," a spokesman for the Maranello based team told Spain's Marca newspaper.

"Ferrari will not protest," he added, while correspondent Marco Canseco said Ferrari is not even planning a mere clarification from the FIA.

Photo: WRi2

Mercedes' Lauda, however, gave a less convincing answer when asked his thoughts about the Red Bull 'system'.

"Red Bull did some software testing before Singapore," he told Osterreich newspaper. "(I know) because the FIA said they (Red Bull) need to change something about it.

"They did that and then everything was apparently fine," added Lauda.

Told that his answer did not sound completely convincing as to Red Bull's innocence, the great triple world champion insisted: "If you cannot prove anything, you should not speculate."

BMW Canada is recalling 9,376 vehicles due to an issue with the braking system. Affected models include the 3 Series, 5 Series, X1, X3, and Z4 from 2012-2014.

A manufacturing defect could result in a loss of oil supply to the vacuum pump. If this were to occur, the vacuum pump could fail, causing a loss of power assist to the braking system. This could increase stopping distances, possibly resulting in a crash.

BMW dealers will install a camshaft seal disk locking ring to fix the problem.

Source: Transport Canada

From GMM

Floodlights have been installed at the venue of the Bahrain grand prix, McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh has revealed.

Earlier, we reported that organisers planned to mark the tenth anniversary of the controversial race by staging it at night next year.

The deal was reportedly agreed with Bernie Ecclestone at Monza last month.

"I think they are going to call it a twilight race," Whitmarsh, boss of the partly Bahrain-owned McLaren team, told Reuters in Korea.

"I've seen pictures of all the floodlights on it, so for their tenth anniversary they've got floodlights."

The other 'twilight' race - beginning at dusk and ending under dark skies - is held in Abu Dhabi, while the Singapore grand prix is also staged under floodlights.

Floodlights atmosphere in Abu Dhabi. (Photo: WRi2)

From GMM

Toro Rosso could even be an option for Felipe Massa in 2014.

That is the claim of F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone, who has previously admitted he is trying to help Massa find a seat next year, in order to maintain a Brazilian presence on the grid.

"I'm a big fan of Felipe's," the 82-year-old told Germany's Sport Bild. "I think he's a fast driver; just terribly unlucky. But with his situation, I can't do anything."

It has been reported Massa, whose manager Nicolas Todt has put together a package of Brazilian sponsors, is in the running for the Lotus seat, but also perhaps Williams, Sauber and Sahara Force India.

Bernie Ecclestone said: "I think he could even go to Toro Rosso. It's a better team than many people think. The only problem is that they have young drivers. What I can say is that formula one needs a driver from Brazil."

Bernie Ecclestone and Felipe Massa. (Photo: WRi2)

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) finished on top of the two free practice sessions today, on the Yongam track, in South Korea.

The day was held on a dry track and two reserve drivers were in action during the morning session. Rodolfo Gonzalez drove the Marussia Jules Bianchi and Paul di Resta had left his Sahara Force India to James Calado.

Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus) and Felipe Massa (Ferrari). (Photo: WRi2)

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) finished in front of the first session, leading the two Red Bull of Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber, Nico Rosberg was fourth with the second Mercedes.

To be noticed, Kimi Raikkonen crashed heavily at the very end of the session. The Finn was not injured, but the Lotus was very damaged.

Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull. (Photo: WRi2)

The second free practice session saw the same four drivers finish on top. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) best time again ahead of Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull). Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) third and Mark Webber fourth with the second Red Bull.

Probably the result of his morning crash, Kimi Raikkonen complained about the behavior of his Lotus.

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

Korean Grand Prix 2013
Yeongam - Friday, October 4, 2013

Free practice session 1 - Results*
1 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04) - 1'39"630 - 20 laps
2 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'39"667 - 20
3 - Mark Webber (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'39"816 - 19
4 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W04) - 1'40"117 - 20
5 - Jenson Button (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'40"215 - 22
6 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F138) - 1'40"374 - 18
7 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'40"396 - 19
8 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'40"677 - 15
9 - Sergio Pérez (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'40"860 - 20
10 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari F138) - 1'40"880 - 13
11 - Nico Hülkenberg (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'40"899 - 20
12 - Adrian Sutil (Sahara Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'41"432 - 18
13 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'41"482 - 22
14 - Esteban Gutierrez (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'41"626 - 21
15 - Jean-Eric Vergne (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'41"924 - 19
16 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'42"002 - 20
17 - Daniel Ricciardo (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'42"043 - 18
18 - James Calado (Sahara Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'43"008 - 21
19 - Charles Pic (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'43"660 - 20
20 - Giedo Van der Garde (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'43"883 - 19
21 - Max Chilton (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'44"100 - 14
22 - Rodolfo Gonzalez (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'46"810 - 10

Nico Rosberg, Mercedes AMG. (Photo: WRi2)

Free practice session 2 - Results*
1 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04) - 1'38"673 - 31 laps
2 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'38"781 - 30
3 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W04) - 1'38"797 - 32
4 - Mark Webber (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'38"844 - 35
5 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari F138) - 1'39"114 - 30
6 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'39"226 - 34
7 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F138) - 1'39"444 - 31
8 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'39"757 - 33
9 - Jenson Button (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'39"774 - 29
10 - Adrian Sutil (Sahara Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'40"006 - 34
11 - Paul di Resta (Sahara Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'40"007 - 34
12 - Sergio Perez (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'40"152 - 31
13 - Esteban Gutierrez (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'40"186 - 33
14 - Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'40"210 - 34
15 - Jean-Eric Vergne (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'40"446 - 30
16 - Daniel Ricciardo (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'40"552 - 26
17 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'41"117 - 35
18 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'41"289 - 34
19 - Giedo Van der Garde (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'42"461 - 36
20 - Charles Pic (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'42"798 - 35
21 - Jules Bianchi (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'43"108 - 31
22 - Max Chilton (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'43"441 - 29

* Unofficials results

The legendary Orient Express was inaugurated on October 4th, 1883, in front of a crowd of politicians, businessmen, journalists, and other marquee people. Designed by a young Belgian engineer named George Nagelmackers, this luxurious train soon revolutionized European travel.

The Orient Express was originally operated by the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits. Similar trains already existed in the U.S., but Nagelmackers wanted to create a more upscale and more comfortable variant.

The first-ever ride, from Paris to Constantinople, was completed in less than two weeks. No other train had ever covered such a long distance (3,094 kilometres).

Over the years, members of the Royal Family of England, aristocrats, and other celebrities like Marlene Dietrich, Mata Hari and Thomas Edward Lawrence a.k.a. Lawrence of Arabia have made trips on board the Orient Express. Of course, the train is also famous for the Agatha Christie novel, Murder on the Orient Express (Fun fact: it's actually where the author met her husband).

With a top speed of only 55 km/h, however, the Orient Express couldn't match the more modern high-speed trains. It stopped serving Istanbul in 1977, and ceased to operate completely in 2009.

Photo: SNCF

Photo: SNCF

From GMM

Sauber is close to reaching a deal to stay with Ferrari power beyond this season.

The Swiss team has had a troubled 2013, but boss Monisha Kaltenborn says money from the Russian rescue deal has begun to flow.

Indeed, Russian teen Sergey Sirotkin's quest for a super license is set to begin at the wheel of an older Ferrari at the Italian team's Fiorano track.

The next step is a new Ferrari deal for Sauber, as F1 moves from the current V8 rules to the new turbo V6 era.

Sauber C32 powered by Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

"I think it is obvious to everyone in what direction we are moving in the negotiations about the engine," Kaltenborn is quoted by Russia's Championat.

It is believed the deal has been held up by Sauber's financial troubles this year, in which Ferrari reportedly went unpaid.

"We had to resolve some issues," Kaltenborn revealed, "and most of them have been settled now. So I think we will have an announcement soon."

Dave Power recalls an early meeting with Toyota brass in California more than 40 years ago as if it happened yesterday.

Nissan Motor Acceptance, the automaker's captive finance arm in the United States, is taking a page out of Hyundai's book and giving customers a break on loan and payments during the federal government shutdown.

The Toyota Corolla, despite a full redesign for 2014, failed to fare well enough on a tough, new crash test to receive honors from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the group said today.

Tesla Motors, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association reached an agreement late last week to allow the automaker to apply for a single dealership license, VADA CEO Don Hall said today.

In this year's Police Vehicle Evaluation conducted by the Michigan State Police at Grattan Raceway, a 2014

The Chevy Malibu is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014.

Volvo tapped the head of its finance arm as acting boss for the United States as part of a management shakeup to boost the automaker's lackluster sales and marketing in the U.S.

After cracking down on Hyundai, Kia and Ford, the EPA is preparing to shine a more public spotlight on automakers' fuel economy claims.

The new Australia/New Zealand distributor has opened Lotus Auckland, the first official dealer for the brand.