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From GMM

McLaren has reportedly played down reports title sponsor Vodafone is pulling out of formula one due to the controversial Bahrain grand prix.

A day after the British team confirmed that its title sponsor since 2007 will pull out at the end of the year, The Times newspaper said Vodafone made its decision "after conducting a review of the deal on the back of last year's Bahrain grand prix".

McLaren MP4-28. (Photo: WRi2)

Bahrain, also a McLaren co-owner through the state-owned Mumtalakat Holding Company, has been a controversial race on the F1 calendar in the wake of the Kingdom's reaction to the Arab Spring uprising.

Vodafone's chief commercial officer Morten Lundal insists the decision to quit is simply because the brand has "less need for this kind of exposure in future".

But The Times claims Vodafone "has been reconsidering its involvement with formula one" since grands prix have been going ahead "despite a violent uprising in (Bahrain) in which thousands of anti-government protesters confronted police".

Protests in Bahrain, in 2012. (Photo: WRi2)

The report continued: "Corporate sponsors such as Vodafone pulled their hospitality plans but could do little to press for the removal of their branding from the cars because of the structure of sponsorship deals.

"Vodafone was particularly sensitive to events during the Arab Spring after it was forced by armed forces to shut down its network in Egypt in January 2011 and send out a text message on behalf of the Mubarak government to 'confront the traitors and criminals'."

Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim's Telmex company is the favourite to replace Vodafone at McLaren next year, but The Times said new F1 sponsors Rolex and Emirates are also in the running.

"It's not cut and dried," said a team source.

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is now on sale at Canadian Hyundai dealers with a base MSRP of $27,999. The Limited model retails for $30,199, while the Limited with Technology Package costs $33,999.

Both the electric motor and battery are now more powerful, reportedly allowing speeds of up to 120 km/h in full electric mode (range has yet to be announced).

The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid achieves 4.9L/100km on the highway, regardless of the trim level, and either 5.4L/100km (base model) or 5.5L/100km (Limited models) in the city.

Available features include LED position lamps, heated leather seats, keyless entry with proximity sensor, push-button start, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Callaway is a renowned car tuner from California, and it makes total sense that a stunning model like the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray would wind up in its sights.

In a move that will no doubt make our very own Matt St-Pierre very excited, the company plans to manufacture the AeroWagon Concept's carbon fibre body using its proprietary Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) process.

Power will also be increased to push top speed beyond 200 mph (322 km/h).

The AeroWagon option is projected to cost under $15,000 and, based on consumer interest, become available this fall through Callaway dealers across the U.S.

Photo: Callaway

You no longer need to travel to Hiroshima, Japan, to visit the Mazda Museum. Thanks to Google Street View, you can now take a virtual tour from the comfort of your home!

Online visitors have access to five areas of the museum: the Entrance Hall, the History and Future areas, as well as the Technology and Rotary Engine exhibits.

Also on display are legendary Mazda cars such as the Cosmo Sport (110S) from the 1960s, RX-7 models from the 1970s and 1980s, and the original Miata roadster.

Just go to http://www.mazda.com/mazdaspirit/museum/guide.html

Photo: Mazda

From GMM

McLaren on Friday admitted it is now "worried" about the pace of the new MP4-28 car.

Jenson Button was just ninth in opening practice in Melbourne, before lagging more than two seconds off the pace in the second ninety minute session.

Team newcomer Sergio Perez was consistently even slower.

"I think we should be worried about the pace," team boss Martin Whitmarsh told British broadcaster Sky. "It is a tough day in the office for everyone at the moment, we are lacking grip and there is a lot of head scratching at the moment."

Jenson Button, McLaren MP4-28. (Photo: WRi2)

While most top teams - notably continuing pacesetters Red Bull - simply evolved their 2012 cars for the final season of V8 regulations, McLaren unveiled a radical new car for this year, including novel pull-rod front suspension.

"I think we are still learning and there is a lot we still need to learn about this car," Martin Whitmarsh added, "but we have struggled frankly to quite understand how it is performing."

Sporting director Sam Michael likened McLaren's new struggles to Ferrari's of early last year, when Fernando Alonso would ultimately go on to challenge for the title.

"By the fourth or fifth race they were there," he said.

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has created a brand new championship title for the 2014 season. It's called a “Green” championship, because it focuses on single-seater racers powered by electric engines.

Are you a believer?

For the vast majority of racing fans, a race car that doesn't rumble and roar -- hoarsely or shrilly -- doesn't belong on the track. How many onlookers were disappointed to hear (or rather not to hear) the muted engine of the famous Audi R10 turbo diesel in Le Mans, a few years ago?

All we heard was the wind rushing by, not the raucous rage of the engine. Not a murmur...almost total silence.

Now imagine a stealthy pack of 20 or so EV single-seaters, zipping by in complete silence... those sitting in the stands and terraces could easily chat amongst themselves because there would be zero noise coming from the track!

"It's just not motorsports!" the hard-liners will grumble, having had their eardrums assaulted by the decibel dinfest of the big bad NASCAR V8s and the deafening cacophony of Formula 1 V10s from yesteryear.

But FIA really had no choice, striving at all costs to set up such a series to show its interest in what could transform international racing. Increasingly seen as a wasteful indulgence, traditional racing is starting to be viewed unfavourably by some governments, political parties, ecological organizations, and more and more so by the general public.



Do you think that this step towards “green” racing is inevitable?

In 2014, FIA's Formula E (for Electric) World Championship will apply to 8 of the 10 city circuits coursing through the streets of some of the world's biggest cities, including those in Rome, Los Angeles, Miami, and Beijing.

To this day, the No. 1 problem for EVs is still poor range autonomy and long recharging times for battery packs. And Formula E races are planned to run for 45 minutes.

How well will EVs succeed in covering such distances?

Organizers have come up with a unique way to solve the problem: During the race, every driver must make at least one pitstop... to change cars! And so, the driver restarts behind the wheel of another racing car, this one with fully charged batteries.

An ingenious idea, but nevertheless hard to swallow for some. Are you with the detractors?

“I don't always bitch on a German product, but when I do, I try to do it seriously.”

The current 2013 Mercedes ML 350 is possibly the most comfortable, well sorted, and economical (when powered by the excellent BLUETEC diesel engine) luxury crossover available in North America at the moment. Yes, it is this good.


However, there is nothing exciting about it other than the aforementioned diesel engine. As well, its bulldog front face gives it all the charm of said animal. There, that's me putting the hurt on this German vehicle.

That's really all the negative points I can muster against the 2013 Mercedes ML. I travelled nearly 1,500 kms in a week's time and was forever happy with the vehicle's performance, poise and roomy, well-crafted cabin.

A face only a person wanting a Mercedes can love
It has become increasingly difficult to properly criticize new cars in 2013. In my short 14-year career, I've migrated from ripping into numerous new cars to scratching away at the latest that carmakers have to offer.

The Mercedes-Benz ML was hot, if but a little rough around the edges, in its early years. It went on to be sophisticated and subtle in phase two. This time around though, it looks like it's trying to be something it's not: a brutish SUV.

Despite my misgivings, the 2013 Mercedes ML, current since the 2012 model year, is selling very well. This is nothing more than proof that the Three-Pointed-Star continues to have mass appeal. From where I stand, the draw to the ML-Class grows with the addition of available AMG bits, and more so when these letters find their way under the bonnet.

As well, its bulldog front face gives it all the charm of said animal. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Mercedes-Benz lounge
The 2013 Mercedes ML's cabin is quite the opposite of the exterior. The interior quarters are large, open and comfortable. They're not especially cozy, but then that's not the German way.

The German way is clean and especially functional with the right amount of sophistication and all class. I spent many an hour at the helm of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, travelling long distances. The longest stretches were a breeze thanks to the large, excessively cosseting seats. What's more, the quiet ambiance that reigns supreme in the ML was punctuated only by conversation or music emanating from the delightful audio system.

The well-crafted dashboard is quickly adaptable as is the COMAND APS with HDD navigation. I especially liked the steering wheel thanks to its design, which allowed for a comfortable grip.

The 2013 Mercedes ML's cabin is quite the opposite of the exterior. The interior quarters are large, open and comfortable. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Motivation: BLUETEC Diesel
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class can be had with any one of the four available engines. Ranging between 240 and 518 hp, I'd spring for the lowest output. The 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 also has 455 lb-ft of torque up its sleeve and that's where all the difference is made. Fully on tap at as low as 1,600 rpm, the V6 rockets forward with the help of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.

Although the V8 ML 550 and 63 AMG might scorch the BLUETEC off the line, the 350 diesel will easily and by far surpass them in range. My long distance cruise returned an impressive 9L/100 km, where 75% was covered on the highway.

There's more to the 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 BLUETEC, and it has to do with refinement. For example, I went to lunch with The Boss one day, and upon our return he commented that the ML was “nice.” I concurred and rambled on about specs and such and when I said “diesel,” he stopped me and asked if I was mistaken.

Ranging between 240 and 518 hp, I'd spring for the lowest output. The 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 also has 455 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

The road to comfort
Other than the linear constant and pleasant shove from the engine, the masterful way with which the ML handles itself is very good. Sporty pretentions are not in the ML's repertoire of tricks, however, tackling on and off-ramps and rapid lane changes (as required in Ontario...) are met with control.

As with the BLUETEC diesel engine, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class rides with poise and refinement. Road irregularities are laughable minor inconveniences. Comfort is the ML's prime objective and it reaches and surpasses it. Steering is also of the same mindset as it is plenty assisted at low speeds, but weighs up nicely at speed. The brakes proved powerful with great pedal feel.

Sporty pretentions are not in the ML's repertoire of tricks, however, tackling on and off-ramps and rapid lane changes (as required in Ontario...) are met with control. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Happiness is...
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class is a great vehicle. The BLUETEC starts at an even $61,000 ($59,500 for a 350) and can run well over $100,000 for a well-garnished 63 AMG.

Despites its physical shortcomings, the ML remains a fabulous family hauler that is classy and plenty luxurious. As for the looks, tick the Sport Package option to get the 20” wheels. They help.

From GMM

Specialist publications are reporting a secret of the apparent speed of Mercedes' new W04 car -- a system known in the German squad's garage as 'Fric'.

German television RTL is saying it probably stands for 'front and rear interactive control', or in other words a type of legal active suspension.

Electronically-active suspension is not allowed, but an hydraulically-controlled layout could be a key to Mercedes' unmatched pace in the twisty middle sector at the final Barcelona test recently.

Auto Motor und Sport said the Brackley based team has been "tinkering with the system for three years".

The report said Sauber is also now working on a version.

Mercedes AMG W04. (Photo: WRi2)

Highlights*
A versatile cargo area helps the new 2014 Nissan Versa Note stand out from the competition. Lowering the available Divide-n-Hide adjustable floorboard creates a deeper well for carrying taller or bulkier items. The roomy interior also seats five in a comfortable way. Moreover, the state-of-the-art dashboard can integrate a number of modern technologies.


Pricing
This second-generation Nissan Versa model will go on sale across Canada this June with a base MSRP of $13,348. Three trim levels will be available: S, SL, and SV.

Fuel consumption
Canadian numbers for the 2014 Nissan Versa Note have not been published yet. However, in the U.S., the EPA gave the car a 40 mpg rating on the highway. Of note on the Note: It sports a PUREDRIVE badge which means it has low C02 emissions and is extremely fuel efficient.

History/Description
This new sub-compact car was launched in Yokohama, Japan, in July 2012. It carries the Note designation used in other global Nissan markets.

The 2014 Nissan Versa Note comes standard with fabric seats (with front height-adjustable seats in the SV and SL models), 12V power outlets, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD/Aux audio, Fine Vision (high-definition) instruments, and four cupholders.

Options
Cutting-edge technology matters a lot to the 2014 Nissan Versa Note's target customer. Consequently, the list of options include NissanConnect with navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, as well as the company's Around View Monitor -- a first in the B-segment.

Other premium features available include heated seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, USB/iPod ports, and push-button start, just to name a few.

Styling
The 2014 Nissan Versa Note is a 5-door hatchback with sculpted lines and modern styling. Beyond Nissan's global “V” platform, there's not much similarity between this model and the 4-door sedan. The aerodynamic front fascia incorporates a wing-shaped grille slightly juxtaposed over the stretched headlight clusters. The tall rear section boasts unique-looking combination lights with aero flares.

Eight exterior and two interior colours are offered, and buyers can replace the standard 15” steel wheels with 16” alloys.

Powertrain
Motivating the 2014 Nissan Versa Note is a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that produces 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque through a 5-speed manual transmission or, optionally, a next-generation Xtronic CVT.

Cargo capacity
Planning a road trip? The trunk can hold 606 litres of cargo with the rear seats up, which is about 100 more than the current Versa.

Safety
The 2014 Nissan Versa Note will keep everyone safe with six airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and a Traction Control System (TCS).

Competitors
Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Mazda2, Toyota Yaris, Chevrolet Sonic

Photo: Nissan

*Based on expert reviews.

From GMM

The future of the so-called 'resource restriction agreement' - a gentleman's pact among teams to control costs - has moved under a dark cloud.

The controversial agreement has been a subject of discussion behind closed motor home doors for some time, with many teams wanting the FIA to get involved to expand and enshrine the arrangement in the actual rules.

But FIA president Jean Todt, who arrived in Melbourne on Friday afternoon, has cast serious doubt not only on the latter possibility, but even on the future of the gentleman's pact.

"I think F1 does cost too much," he acknowledged to the Financial Times.

He added, however, that "A lot of teams prefer to have the privilege of competition rather than reduce costs".

"I hope that a sensible approach from teams will be reducing costs. But it's not something we all have to agree together," said Todt.

"We are the regulator. If they don't want to reduce costs, that's it. It's not our responsibility to do things that teams do not want."

Team Red Bull Racing at work at night. (Photo: WRi2)

Todt sounded happier about the state of the FIA's financial situation, in the context of a new agreement with Bernie Ecclestone, and higher entry fees from the teams.

The agreement "will be good" for the Paris-based federation, the Frenchman said.

But the governing body has not got off to a good start in Australia, after the white shirts bearing the FIA logo for the race stewards to wear got lost in the mail from Place de la Concorde, according to a report in Speed Week.

Audi Sport is displaying great form, ahead of the 2013 12 Hours of Sebring. The German team topped all four practice sessions.

Even the series' reigning champion team, Muscle Milk Pickett Racing, couldn't get anywhere close Audi. The best it managed in its final outing before qualifying was fourth, 2.4 seconds off the pace.

Audi is setting the pace in Sebring (Photo: Audi Sport)

In P2, Greaves Motorsport and Level 5 Motorsports are still trading fastest laps, which makes it very tough to pick out a favourite between the two.

The story in GT belongs to Ferrari - led by returnee team Risi Competizione - and Corvette. Having been quickest in two out of four test sessions, Risi seems to have the edge.

DragonSpeed, CORE Autosport and RSR Racing all featured so far in LMPC, while in GTC, the Alex Job, NGT and Flying Lizards are heading the charts.

Qualifying for the race started at 1:15 pm ET.

Denny Hamlin, who was fined by NASCAR officials for a statement they deemed to be an action detrimental to the sport (under Section 12-1) said that he would not appeal the fine.

On the other hand he said that he's still refusing to pay the fine.

After the Sprint Cup race in Phoenix Hamlin, who drove his JGR Toyota to third place, said “We learned a lot. I don't want to be the pessimist, but it did not race as good as our generation five cars. This is more like what the generation five was at the beginning. The teams hadn't figured out how to get the aero balance right. Right now, you just run single-file and you cannot get around the guy in front of you.”

NASCAR officials fined Hamlin $25,000 for that statement.

Denny Hamlin, Toyota Camry (Photo: Getty Images/NASCAR)

NASCAR Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton told journalists at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, on March 7th, "we give them quite a bit of latitude," he said. "You can't slam the racing. You can't slam the product. That's where it crosses the line.”

Denny Hamlin said he wouldn't pay the fine and may have considered appealing it.

Late Thursday afternoon Hamlin tweeted:
“After a lot of thought I have decided not to appeal the fine NASCAR has issued. Dragging myself, my team and NASCAR through the mud for the next 2 weeks would not be good for anyone. I firmly believe I am in the right on this issue and will stand behind my decision not to pay. I understand NASCAR will do what they feel is necessary based on my decision. Thanks to all of my fans and peers who have supported me in this decision. I look forward to putting it to rest.”

NASCAR issued the following statement:
“NASCAR announced today that the $25,000 fine assessed to driver Denny Hamlin on March 7 will be settled per Section 12-3 of the 2013 NASCAR rule book after being informed by Hamlin that he will not appeal the penalty. Hamlin was fined after the sanctioning body determined he had violated Section 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing). NASCAR considers this matter closed.”

Section 12-3 states "Unpaid fines ... may be collected by NASCAR by deducting amount from ... purse or point fund earnings."

This means that Hamlin's fine will be taken out of future earnings. There will be no further penalty for this matter as set forth in NASCAR's statement.

Dear Formula 1 fans, here are the photos of all F1 cars as they ran Friday the first two free practice sessions in Melbourne, Australia.

We chose to show you side shots of the 11 cars to help you compare the various components, such as the front wings, noses, air boxes, sidepods and rear wings.

Red Bull RB9 Renault (Photo: WRI2)

Ferrari F138 (Photo: WRI2)

McLaren MP4-28 Mercedes (Photo: WRI2)

Lotus E21 Renault (Photo: WRI2)

Mercedes AMG W04(Photo: WRI2)

Sauber C32 Ferrari (Photo: WRI2)

Sahara Force India VJM06 Mercedes (Photo: WRI2)

Williams FW35 Renault (Photo: WRI2)

Toro Rosso STR8 Ferrari (Photo: WRI2)

Caterham CT03 Renault (Photo: WRI2)

Marussia MR02 Cosworth (Photo: WRI2)

From Caterham

Spanish racer Sergio Canamsas has today finalised a deal to contest the 2013 GP2 Championship with Caterham Racing.

In addition to his GP2 role, Canamsas will be Caterham F1 Team's 2013 development driver and his duties will include F1 simulator work at Leafield Technical Centre, as well as straight-line aero testing for the F1 team.

Sergio Canamasas. (Photo: GP2 Series)

The 24-year-old drove for the team at both pre-season tests in Spain and performed consistently throughout. He will drive the No. 14 Caterham Racing car in 2013 and partners GP2 rookie and Caterham F1 Team reserve driver Ma Qing Hua in the number 15 car.

This year sees Canamsas enter his first full season in GP2, having competed in ten races last year with the Venezuela Lazarus team. Sergio is familiar with the GP2 car and race setup, therefore the team has high expectations for him.

Canamsas' resume boasts seasons in World Series by Renault, European F3 and Spanish F3 and in 2013 he hopes to consolidate his experience and be a front runner in GP2.

Chrysler Group will hire 200 people at its Ohio Jeep plant that makes the rugged Wrangler SUV.

A123 Systems, the bankrupt former electric-car battery maker, won court approval to seek votes from creditors on its repayment plan.

GM wants to invest more than $38 million in a Lansing, Mich., plant where it plans to move Chevrolet Camaro production.

The advertising joint venture formed last year to handle Chevrolet's creative advertising has split apart, with McCann Worldgroup emerging as the lead agency for the bow-tie brand globally.

GM is planning to build an entry-level Chevrolet Corvette that would cost less than $50,000 and widen the iconic sports car brand's appeal, people familiar with the plans told Reuters.

Also in this episode: The Porsche 911 GT3 R gets even more extreme, and the