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From GMM

Fernando Alonso is heading into next weekend's 2013 season opener with realistic expectations of a podium finish.

"I think so," the 2012 title runner-up is quoted by Spain's El Pais newspaper during a sponsor event in Barcelona on Monday.

Fabled Ferrari has had a much better winter compared to a year ago, when the Maranello team was multiple seconds off the pace.

Fernando Alonso fought back to lose the championship to Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel by just 3 points, and he is expecting a similar contest in 2013.

"McLaren, Lotus will be there," he said.

"And Mercedes, who have worked on this car since the middle of last season, have improved. But it would be a major surprise if Red Bull is not in front of everyone. They should be able to win in Australia even with the car of Brazil (2012)," said Alonso.

Red Bull RB9. (Photo: WRi2)

He said his wish for 2013 is therefore to have a car "capable of fighting with the best".

"Able to win races and podiums," the Spaniard clarified.

"We can't forget that late last year we were 7 or 8 tenths behind the competition. So we will not be the fastest, but we will not be 1.6 seconds behind, as we were in Australia last year.

"But we are faster," he is quoted by the AS newspaper. "The base is infinitely better. I need a faster car to win, but two tenths (slower than the best) is enough."

Fernando Alonso said those trying to predict the Melbourne pecking-order based on winter testing will need to wait until next weekend to know the real answer.

"Impossible," he said when asked how easy it is to extrapolate Mercedes, McLaren, Red Bull and Lotus' true form based on the three Spanish tests.

"You don't go to a training camp to see if Barca is going to win on Sunday, or watch Djokovic and Nadal warm up to know the winner. The first four or five races will be a surprise for everyone," added Fernando Alonso.

The Honda Civic Tourer Concept premiered today at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, giving us a good idea of what the production wagon will look like in Frankfurt this fall.

The Civic Tourer shares many attributes with the ninth-generation model launched in 2011. Styling is cranked up a notch (or two), and buyers in Europe are in for quite a treat.

We'll have to wait to get more specific information including whether or not this Civic will hit North America as well.

Photo: Honda

The 12 days of testing at Jerez and Barcelona on offer to Scuderia Ferrari and the other ten Formula 1 teams have gone quickly. Now's the time to get ready for the first race to be held in Australia, March 17.

There were six days of testing for Felipe Massa, five for Fernando Alonso and one for Pedro de la Rosa in just about every kind of weather, except perhaps the conditions expected in Melbourne.

They completed a total of 1069 laps of the two Spanish tracks: 3682km from the last two sessions at the Catalunya circuit near Barcelona, plus a further 1231km in Jerez making up a total of 4913km.

These are the figures that count for the data analysis that the Scuderia's engineers have been carrying out to understand the behaviour of the F138 - with particular attention paid to the new Pirelli tires, which have been designed to provide a better show and, as a result, the “thrill” of unpredictability.

It was this very point that Pat Fry, Scuderia Ferrari's Technical Director, emphasised in his evaluation of this intense month of testing.

Pat Fry, Ferrari's Technical Director. (Photo: WRi2)

“All the teams, ourselves included, will still have a lot to learn about the tires in Melbourne,” said Fry in an interview posted by Ferrari.

“The performance and the degradation of the tires will be the determining factor in establishing how competitive everyone is. Albert Park is a partial street circuit - it is only used for racing a few times during the year - so it will be interesting to see how the tires behave in higher temperatures,” he added.

Asked about the comparative performance of the teams, Fry added: “During these days of testing we have just concentrated on our own work programme. There are some quick cars but frankly our attention has been very much on the work linked to the F138's development, collecting data on the new parts that we have brought, especially in this final test. The positive thing is that our aerodynamic simulations - both from the wind tunnel and CFD - have given us the results we had been hoping to see on the track. You can never have a 100% correlation but this is an encouraging sign for the new parts that we aim to bring to the first races, starting in Melbourne”.

Mitsubishi today introduced a pair of new concepts at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The GR-HEV is a Sport Utility Truck (SUT) with a radical design combining the comfort of a sedan with the functionality of a pickup truck. It's also a hybrid vehicle that uses a 2.5L clean diesel engine and an electric motor, along with a Super Select 4WD system offering four driving modes.

Meanwhile, the CA-MiEV foreshadows a new wave of Mitsubishi electric cars. With a range of nearly 300 kilometres, this racy hatchback boasts an 80 kW motor and 28 kWh battery. The remote-controlled management system for charging and discharging can be linked to smartphones or tablet devices. The vehicle is also equipped with a remote tracking function that captures its position using GPS if stolen.

While no plans to put these concepts into production have been announced, look for many ideas to reappear in future Mitsubishi products.

Photo: Mitsubishi

Photo: Mitsubishi

True to its word, Volvo launched another world first in automotive safety today at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show: a system that detects and automatically brakes for cyclists swerving out in front of the car.

The new functionality is an enhancement of the current detection and auto brake technology, and the package will be called “Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake.” All cars equipped with pedestrian detection will also incorporate cyclist detection.

How does it work? The advanced sensor system scans the road ahead. If a cyclist heading in the same direction as the car suddenly swerves out in front as it approaches from behind and a collision is imminent, there is an instant warning and full braking power is applied. This helps avoid a collision or, at least, reduce the severity of injuries.

The technology will become available with the Volvo V40, S60, V60, XC60, V70, XC70, and S80 starting in mid-May.

Photo: Volvo

Photo: Volvo

The all-new Bentley Flying Spur today made good on its promise to dazzle the Geneva Motor Show crowd with a 625-horsepower W12 engine that achieves 0-100km/h acceleration in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 322 km/h.

“The new Bentley Flying Spur marks a big step forward. We have redesigned and re-engineered almost every part of the car,” said Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bentley. “In simple words, we have created the best luxury sedan in the world - a perfect combination of exquisite refinement, effortless performance, elegant styling and state of the art technology.

”

Other Bentley models on display in Geneva include the GT Speed Convertible (European premiere), an enhanced specification for the flagship Mulsanne, plus the Continental GT V8 and GT W12.

Photo: Bentley

OAK Racing announced Tuesday that Chinese driver Ho-Pin Tung will lead its driver line-up behind the wheel on the French squad's No. 24 Morgan LMP2.

Following the official launch of the Asian Le Mans Series in Hong Kong earlier today, OAK Racing announced Tuesday that Chinese driver Ho-Pin Tung will lead its driver line-up behind the wheel on the French squad's No. 24 Morgan LMP2.

Photo: OAK Racing

The championship sees four countries across Asia hosting six three-hour events similar to those of its European Le Mans Series counterpart.

Like the ELMS, LM P2 has been designated as the premier prototype category, allowing OAK Racing to fight for overall race victories and the championship with its Onroak Automotive designed and built prototype that will this year carry its traditional pink and black livery.

Tung's extensive single-seater CV includes reserve driver roles with Williams, Renault and Lotus Formula 1 teams, as well as titles in Formula BMW Asia and German F3. This will be his first experience of driving a sports-prototype however.

The supercar formerly known as the F70, and later the F150, will finally bear the explicit name of “LaFerrari”. It made its world debut today at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Photo: Ferrari

“We chose to call this model 'LaFerrari' because it is the maximum expression of what defines our company - excellence. Excellence in terms of technological innovation, performance, styling and the sheer thrill of driving. Aimed at our collectors, this is a truly extraordinary car which encompasses advanced solutions that, in the future, will find their way onto the rest of the range,” declared Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo.

Photo: Ferrari

An 800-horsepower V12 engine combines with two electric motors and floor-mounted batteries to propel the LaFerrari from 0-100 km/h in less than three seconds. Top speed is rated at 350 km/h.

Said batteries can be charged through regenerative braking, as well as every time the engine produces more torque than necessary. The extra torque is indeed converted into electricity to extend the range.

Photo: Ferrari

Only 499 copies of the LaFerrari will be built. Stay tuned for pricing and availability.

From GMM

Jules Bianchi has admitted he expected to spend the 2013 season as Force India's reserve driver.

The Frenchman served in that role last year, but was a hot contender to step into the race seat for 2013.

Ultimately, however, Adrian Sutil got the job.

"I honestly thought it was over," Bianchi told France's Sport24. "And then there was this story (about Marussia and Luiz Razia), but in my head I had told myself that I would do another season as third driver. It was really a great surprise to find myself in contention for this (Marussia) seat."

Jules Bianchi, Marussia MR02. (Photo: WRi2)

Recalling when Force India chose German Sutil over him, he explained: "The bad news came ... I could stay with Force India but as third driver. I thought I had done enough in the past years to make a step forward."

Of course, Jules Bianchi will indeed be on the Melbourne grid next weekend, alongside fellow rookies Max Chilton, his teammate, and also Valtteri Bottas and Giedo Van der Garde.

Asked if his new status has sunk in, Jules Bianchi answered: "Not really! I find it hard to say I'll be on the grid in Melbourne. Since I was small and in karting, I have worked towards F1. It will take me some more days to understand this."

Asked how he responded when Marussia offered him the seat, Jules Bianchi revealed: "I immediately said yes!"

"I knew it was being discussed but I didn't really believe it. I know that my manager, Nicolas Todt, worked hard for it, as well as my sponsors, the French (motor racing) federation and Ferrari who were all behind me and helped me to where I am today," he added.

The most powerful Rolls-Royce ever built, the all-new Wraith, has finally made its global debut today at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Producing 624 horsepower (vs. 563 for the Ghost), it reaches 100 km/h in a mere 4.6 seconds.

The Rolls-Royce Wraith inaugurates the Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT) technology, which takes the powertrain to a new level of effortless delivery. It uses GPS data to anticipate the driver's next move based on location and current driving style, then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain ahead.

Inside the supremely luxurious cabin of the Rolls-Royce Wraith, premium leather trim and Canadel wood panelling live up to the brand's ultra-high-quality standards for refinement. The interior ambiance is complemented by the Starlight Headliner, a bespoke feature available beyond the Phantom family of cars for the first time. A total of 1,340 fibre optic lamps are hand-woven into the roof lining to give the impression of a glittering, starry night sky.

The Rolls-Royce Wraith will go on sale in Europe by the end of this year at a starting price of €245,000 (approx. $328,000). Details for other markets will be announced later.

Photo: Rolls-Royce

During the Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched its new RS 5 DTM that will compete in this year's DTM championship.

Since the technical speciafications of three DTM are frozen since the end of last year, the RS 5 looks quite similar to its predecessor.

Audi RS 5 DTM (Photo: Audi Motorsports)

Eight DTM Audi RS 5s will be run in the DTM in 2013.

Having left Mercedes, Briton Jamie Green joins the works team, Audi Sport Abt Sportsline alongside DTM veteran Mattias Ekström.

The other drivers are Timo Scheider / Adrien Tambay (Audi Sport Team Abt), Miguel Molina / Mike Rockenfeller (Audi Sport Team Phoenix), and Filipe Albuquerque / Edoardo Mortara (Audi Sport Team Rosberg).

As promised on February 19th, Spyker Cars unveiled a striking new concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The B6 Venator, described by the automaker as a “unique alternative in the High Luxury Sports sector,” proudly sits alongside the Spyker C8 Aileron, which made its debut in Geneva four years ago.

This two-door coupe boasts an all-aluminum chassis and 375-horsepower V6 engine wrapped in an all-carbon fibre body. Moreover, the dashboard is shown with a turned aluminium fascia, similar to those seen on Spykers of the 1920s.

Both inside and out, aviation-inspired design cues can be found, such as the three-dimensional LED taillights that are akin to the iris-type afterburners of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft. Let's not forget the 19” Turbofan alloy wheels.

Production of the hand-built Spyker B6 Venator will begin in early 2014 for key markets including Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and India, followed by the U.S. in the fall of 2014. Pricing will start anywhere between $125,000 and $150,000.

Canadian availability remains unknown.

Photo: Spyker

From GMM

Several F1 drivers were drug tested on Tuesday.

McLaren's Sergio Perez confirmed he had endured a very "early morning" as the result of a surprise urine test.

Fernando Alonso said the testers, ensuring FIA-sanctioned drivers comply with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)'s international standard, arrived at his house at 6.42am.

"Got drug tested early hours this morning," added Australian Daniel Ricciardo.

"All of a sudden p*ssing in your own home becomes difficult with someone staring over your shoulder," he said on Twitter.

The WADA standard includes drug testing at grands prix, but also 'out of competition'.

The 2013 Scion xB is now on sale at Scion dealers across Canada with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $18,860, not to mention a long list of standard features and customization options.

Under the hood of the 2013 Scion xB is 2.4L 4-cylinder engine rated at 158 horsepower. Combined fuel consumption amounts to 8.5L/100km with the 5-speed manual transmission, and 8.4L/100km with the 4-speed automatic.

Accommodating up to five passengers in a roomy interior, the 2013 Scion xB offers air conditioning with a cabin air filter and rear seat heater ducts.

Outside, the heated mirrors integrate turn signals, while LED accessory lamps are mounted on the front bumper.

Photo: Scion

Hyundai Motorsport has unveiled at Geneva Motor Show its latest version of its i20 WRC that will contest de FIA World Rally Championship.

This updated version includes upgrades to the car's aerodynamics, chassis and suspension to improve cooling, enhanced suspension kinematics and chassis stiffness.

In addition, the newly specified i20 World Rally Car also reveals a striking new livery.

Photo: Hyundai

“We are still in the infancy of our exciting World Rally Championship programme so the development curve for the car and team is steep. This latest version of the i20 WRC has centred on aerodynamics with the objective of improving the car's cooling systems,” said Michel Nandan, Hyundai Motorsport Team Principal.

“A new rear wing and front spoiler give the i20 WRC a new external appearance while, under the bodywork, improvements have also been made to the suspension kinematics and chassis stiffness as we gear up for a more structured test programme later in the year,” Nandan added.

Photo: Hyundai

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic 911, Porsche took the wraps off the fifth-generation of the 911 GT3 at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The engine, transmission, body, and chassis are entirely new.

Photo: Porsche

The latest Porsche 911 GT3 exploits a 475-horsepower, 3.8L flat-six engine that's based on the 911 Carrera S' unit, but shares only a few common parts. Using a dual-clutch PDK transmission, the car sprints from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, and 0-200 km/h in less than 12 seconds.

Additionally, Porsche is introducing active rear-wheel steering. Depending on the speed, the system steers in the opposite or the same direction as the front wheels, thereby improving agility and stability.

Scheduled to arrive in Canada at the end of this year, the all-new Porsche 911 GT3 will retail from $148,800.

Photo: Porsche

From press release

Following his recent success in Rally Sweden, WRC point standings leader, Sébastien Ogier (Volkswagen) looks forward to the third round of the WRC season, the Rally Mexico.

After he took second place in Monte Carlo rally behind Sebastien Loeb's Citroen DS3, then clinched victory in Sweden ahead of his fellow countryman, Sebastien Ogier confirmed the high level of performance of his Volkswagen Polo R, which make its WRC debuts this season.

Ogier is now the main favorite for championship win.

"Wait, we have only completed two of the 13 rounds of the World Championship," he said.

"We still don't really know how good we are, or how competitive the Polo R WRC is on gravel. Maybe we will rethink our goals for the season after Portugal or Argentina. One thing is certain, owever: if we are still in with a chance at the end of the season, we will fight all the way."

Sebastien Ogier. (Photo: Volkswagen Motorsport)

This week end, Rally Mexico will be a test for the german squad, that will run its first event on gravel roads. It will be interesting to see the level of performance of the Polo on this surface.

"That is hard to say," Ogier added. "In Mexico we will be driving on quite rough gravel routes, and at an extremely high altitude. The air is thin at over 2,500 metres above sea level. We drivers feel that, and so do the engines. At its worst, everyone here has almost a third less performance than under normal conditions."

In spite of those particular conditions, Sebastien Ogier is looking forward to the mexican special stages.

"I really like the atmosphere there. The weather is always good and the special stages are lined with a lot of fans. The start in Guanajuato, in particular, is a fantastic experience. Down narrow lanes, through tunnels, and past thousands of fans cheering you on frenetically - that is pure goose bumps! For me personally, it is always very special to line up in Mexico. It was there that I drove my very first rally in the World Championship back in 2008 - and I promptly won my first race in the Junior WRC class. That was like a dream back then. As such, I am always happy to travel to Mexico to race there."

Plans of creating a new touring car series, based on the German DTM, are still on the agenda in North America.

Talks between ITR, the organization behind the DTM, and Grand-Am had stalled these past months. The merger between Grand-Am and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) was keeping everyone busy.

Robert Wickens, Mercedes DTM (Photo: René Fagnan)

Now with the unified series all set, the focus is shifting back to plans of an American DTM series, to fill the demand for sprint sport car races on the continent. The sights are set for 2015 or 2016, after the merger is done.

The new DTM could welcome manufacturers from both America and Europe, but also from Japan - where the Super GT championship recently adopted DTM rules for its GT500 class. Of course, if - and only if -, efforts to keep the operating costs down succeed.

"Yes to internationalization," said BMW's Jens Marquardt, "but not at any cost."

So far, only Audi has formally backed the plan.

"I can just say that the American market is very important for Audi," motorsport boss Wolfgang Ullrich said to SPEED TV.

"The DTM is a very high level touring car series that's been successful in Europe at present. We have the intention to cooperate with other motorsport authorities internationally to find a way to run these cars based on this new technical rulebook in other countries as well."

From GMM

A third-generation formula one driver would be "fantastic", the sport's chief executive Bernie Ecclestone has admitted.

Actually, the possibility is now quite real, with 1996 world champion Damon Hill's 22-year-old son Josh to contest the European F3 championship this year.

The winner of this year's series will get a test with the fabled F1 team Ferrari.

Damon Hill has been raising the profile of his son recently, after Josh in 2012 won five races in the Formula Renault 2.0 championship.

Josh's grandfather was the 1962 and 1968 world champion Graham Hill, and Josh recently accompanied his father Damon to collect Graham's entry into Motor Sport magazine's Hall of Fame.

All three Hills raced the now iconic blue and white livery of the London rowing club on their helmets.

Bernie Ecclestone told F1 business journalist Christian Sylt: "I wish Damon's son would get into F1.

"It would be super. It would be fantastic," he told City A.M.

Joshua Hill. (Photo: Joshua Hill/Facebook)

News 5 Mar, 2013

The electric VW e-Co-Motion and ItalDesign Giugiaro Parcour concepts have been revealed