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May
27th

Kia aims to conquest upscale shoppers

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Kia's near-luxury Cadenza sedan -- priced from around $36,000 and equipped to swipe customers from the Acura TL and Lexus ES -- underscores how far the marque has come since its days as a value brand for used-car intenders.
May
27th

Automotive News Europe News Feed 2013-05-27 01:01:00

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We keep hearing that the iPod generation doesn't care as much about cars. That theory was proved wrong over the weekend during the Concourse d'Elegance in Como, Italy.
May
27th

Lapham to retire after 40-yr. career

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After 40 years of covering all aspects of the auto industry as a reporter, columnist, commentator and editor, Executive Editor Edward Lapham will retire at the end of June.
May
27th

N.J. Honda store takes another hit in point fight

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Willis Honda in Burlington, N.J., and its owner have lost another round in their long-running legal battle with Honda and a rival store over how the competing point in Hamilton, N.J., was awarded.
May
27th

Automotive News Breaking News Feed 2013-05-27 01:01:00

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Doug Betts has spearheaded Chrysler Group's effort to improve product quality since he joined the company from Nissan North America in 2007.
May
27th

F1: FIA not ruling out penalties after secret test

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From GMM

The FIA is not ruling out penalties, after stewards on Sunday investigated Mercedes' secret Barcelona tire test.

Before the Monaco grand prix, Red Bull and Ferrari filed an official protest, arguing the three-day test with a 2013-spec car was a breach of the sporting rules.

Having conducted an investigation after Sunday's race, the FIA confirmed it knew Pirelli wanted to do the test, but only gave a conditional green light in the event "every team is offered the opportunity" to also test.

"The FIA received no confirmation that all teams had been given an opportunity to take part in this test," the FIA statement added.

F1's governing body is not ruling out the intervention now of the International Tribunal, which could "inflict penalties".

F1 Mercedes AMG
Photo: Mercedes AMG F1 Team

Mercedes' Niki Lauda, however, told Brazil's O Estado de S.Paulo that the FIA "sent a delegate" to the test, and that Charlie Whiting and Bernie Ecclestone knew about it as well.

A Pirelli spokesman said Ferrari was invited to test and turned down the offer, while Dr Helmut Marko said a Red Bull engineer had also been "informally" asked.

It is rumoured that Red Bull and Ferrari both said no because they believed the test would have to be done with a two-year old car.

Indeed, between Bahrain and China, a Pirelli tire test took place with a 2010 Ferrari.

But "Every team would like an exclusive test with a current car," Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said on Sunday.

Sauber team boss Monisha Kaltenborn told Auto Motor und Sport: "We knew nothing about it (the Mercedes test)."

But Mercedes' executive director Toto Wolff denies the team tried to hide the test, and dismissed suggestions the German squad used the opportunity to test car developments.

"There was only ten days between the request and the test," he said, "which is not enough time to produce any development parts."

F1 Mercedes AMG
Photo: Mercedes AMG F1 Team

And Mercedes chairman Niki Lauda insisted: "When we were asked to do this, our team boss Ross Brawn called Charlie Whiting and asked if a test is compatible with the sporting regulations.

"Charlie consulted with the FIA lawyers and gave us the green light.

"Moreover, Pirelli didn't just ask us, but Red Bull as well."

Christian Horner confirmed that Red Bull was asked by Pirelli. "We declined," he said, "because we are of the opinion that such a test violates the regulations."

Wolff, however, is livid, particularly as the storm coincided with Nico Rosberg's convincing victory in Monaco.

"The term 'sore losers' comes to mind," he is quoted by Speed Week.

But the question remains: did Mercedes unfairly benefit from the exclusive test?

"Impossible to say," quadruple world champion Alain Prost told France's RMC Sport, "but I don't think we can say this win was because of the test. That wouldn't be fair.

"What is certain is that unauthorised things are not allowed. Time will tell," the great Frenchman added.


May
27th

Roberto Cavalli MINI at Life Ball

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For the past 13 years, MINI has been the official vehicle of the Vienna-based Life Ball, the largest charity event held in Europe in support of those suffering from HIV/AIDS. Each year, MINI collaborates with a renowned designer to create the ultimate Life Ball MINI to be auctioned off.

This year, MINI joined forces with renowned designer, Roberto Cavalli for the May 25th 2013 Life Ball, offering him a brand new MINI Paceman to do with as he pleased. Featuring a special paint, the Roberto Cavalli logo on the roof and a fully redesigned and decked out interior, Roberto had this to say about his specially designed MINI:

“The iridescent paint used for the car was personally conceptualized by me. It is my own creation, which throughout the years I have used on my boat and my helicopter, for example. The only difference this time is that the base colour is from black to brown. I love how the colour changes according to the light...just like magic. And when I think of a style icon such as MINI, why not make it even more special with one-of-a-kind paint?”

Over the years, the 12 MINIs auctioned off at Life Ball have raised a collective half million euros; Cavalli's MINI Paceman raised 150,000 euros to benefit AIDS projects on its own!

Roberto Cavalli
Photo: MINI


May
27th

F1: Money and driver trouble for Lotus

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From GMM

Lotus has recorded the biggest financial loss in motor racing history, according to F1 business journalist Christian Sylt.

A report in the Telegraph said the Enstone based team's latest accounts show an almost $86 million loss for 2012, due to declining sponsorship.

"No other F1 team filing publicly-available accounts has ever lost as much money," said Sylt.

There could be more bad news around the corner for Lotus, amid continuing rumours top driver Kimi Raikkonen could jump ship to Red Bull at the end of the year.

F1 Lotus E21
Photo: WRi2

"That would be a shame for Lotus, because he has done a great job for them. But it's his decision," F1 legend Alain Prost told Welt am Sonntag newspaper.

At the same time, Raikkonen's teammate Romain Grosjean is back in the wars, this time penalised ten places on the Montreal grid for crashing into Daniel Ricciardo on Sunday.

Double world champion Mika Hakkinen is not impressed.

"I think patting him on the head is not working anymore," the Finn told MTV3 broadcaster. "Something is going to happen and I'm sure the team is thinking about what to do."

Hakkinen's former McLaren teammate David Coulthard agrees: "It just goes to show speed is not enough.

"He's done a lot of damage and I don't think Lotus are flush with money," he said on BBC television. "They don't expect four crashes (in one weekend)."

Lotus, however, was also complaining about an erratic driver, following Sergio Perez's feisty race in the McLaren.

Kimi Raikkonen called the Mexican "stupid" and an "idiot" after their run-in at the chicane.

"Actually that (idiot) is a nice word compared with what he really said," said team boss Eric Boullier.


May
27th

Mercedes-Benz admits it was wrong about the E-Class

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It's not often a carmaker admits it was wrong, but Mercedes-Benz has, and with good reason. Auto enthusiasts the world have all wondered why Mercedes failed to make an AMG variant of its current-gen E-Class coupe and cabriolet. It only seemed natural since there are AMG variants on nearly every other car in their lineup, and the top-tier E-Class (the E550) already boasts a twin-turbo V8 good for 402 horsepower.

Well, Mercedes-Benz has admitted it made a bit of a boo-boo by not slapping an AMG badge and package on the E-Class. Merc's product manager, Gerd Jungingerm, explained that at the time it wasn't in AMG's planning, however, they are aware that the E-Class is “the perfect car to be an AMG.”

So, the next question becomes: when? While the E-Class has just gone through a refresh, it'll likely surface for 2016... fingers crossed.

Source: www.carscoops.com

Mercedes-Benz Classe E Berline et Mercedes-Benz Classe E familiale
Photo: Mercedes-Benz


May
27th

No NYC Nissan cabs?

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Nissan stands to lose its exclusive deal with New York City to supply the only taxicab in the city due to an issue with the powertrain and a Supreme Court ruling.

What's the issue? Well, New York City's taxi commission signed a contract stipulating that the Nissan NV200s to be used would be hybrid vehicles, however, the vehicles due to launch and be used by the city in October are not. Even though Nissan promises the hybrid NV200 will be produced in 2015, the Supreme Court ruled the arrangement “null, void and unenforceable.”

Nissan's Taxi of Tomorrow contract was set to result in anywhere from 13,000 to 25,000 NV200 sales over the next 10 years. While that's not a ridiculous amount, Nissan was counting on the $1 billion deal to spread awareness for its NV200 model, especially in hybrid trim.

While the contract is not completely broken, Nissan and the New York City taxi commission will have to come to a solution and taxi drivers will have to find a hybrid alternative to use in the interim until the NV200 hybrid is available.

Source: Automotive News

Photo: Nissan


May
27th

Fiat 500L finally makes it to NA

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It's official: The bigger Italians have landed in North America. The larger, Fiat 500L has made its arrival on the shores of the United States and Canada with 3,000 units landing in Baltimore and Halifax. The ship docked in the U.S. May 23rd, then carried on to Canada arriving on May 26th.

The North American Fiat 500L began production in Kragujevac in Serbia. Fiat Automobiles Serbia (FAS) predicts it will manufacture 110,000 to 150,000 Fiat 500L units in 2013 for the over-100 markets worldwide.

Equipped with a specially developed engine, Fiat's brand new 1.4L MultiAir turbo, the 500L boasts the highest horsepower (160) and torque (184) in its class. The 500L is available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed dual dry clutch automatic transmission.

Fiat 500L landing
Photo: Fiat


May
27th

NASCAR: Harvick prevails on one long strange night in Charlotte

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Kevin Harvick, better known as “The Closer” brought down the curtain on one long strange 600-mile night in Charlotte.

“This is one of those nights you just know going into it you got to grind away lap after lap, just keep yourself on the lead lap, not make any mistakes,” said Harvick. “As you get towards the end of the race, you want to be more aggressive as you get onto pit road, get into your pit box.”

NASCAR Chevrolet Kevin Harvick
Kevin Harvick, Chevrolet. (Photo: NASCAR)

Thanks to two new tires Harvick beat out fellow Chevrolet driver, Kasey Kahne, on a late race restart for his second win of the year. “You know, we all pitted there probably about that same time, about 20 laps to go. I could see him.  Heck, the last race we won here, we came off of turn two in third. By the time we got back to the start/finish line, we had won the race.

I felt when we came out second, everybody had done their job.  They were all like five‑year‑old kids looking at me as a snack.  It's like, ‘don't screw this up, bud.'  You're in control of this race.  Don't let somebody get under you, because at that point we were in complete control.”

Kasey Kahne and his crew decided not to pit for fresh tires and that decision cost him the win.

“The whole field pitted so we just didn't expect that,” said Kahne. We had a great Chevy all night long. We were in the hunt from the drop of the green. It was a solid night. Wish we could have won it. I felt like we were definitely the car to beat the last 200 laps, maybe the whole race at times. It was solid. It was a great performance by the whole team and the pit stops were awesome. We just didn't get the win.”

NASCAR Kurt Busch Kasey Kahne
Kasey Kahne and Kurt Busch. (Photo: NASCAR)

Kasey Kahne had led 156 laps but Harvick took the low line following the last of 11 cautions and slowly pulled away for the victory.

Kurt Busch whose car was hit by a television camera cable and later had a battery issue soldiered home to a third-place. It was almost like a war zone to the 2004 Sprint Cup champ “still shell-shocked, we picked up the lead and then the battery went dead,” said Busch. “I don't know what to think of that. We battled back. They guys changed it as fast as they could and we got third. We had a good car.”

That brings us to the bizarre part of the evening.

The race was red flagged just past quarter of the way into NASCAR longest race of the year after the nylon rope, which supports a television camera, snapped in the first turn. Instead of stopping with no repairs drivers were allowed back to their pit stalls and crews given 15 minutes to assess and fix damage caused by the failure.

Ten fans received non life-threatening injuries.

In addition to the 11 caution flag periods there were a total of three red flag stoppages following collisions involving some of NASCAR's biggest names like reigning champion, Brad Keselowski, Jimmie Johnson, and Danica Patrick. Dale Earnhardt's blown engine was another culprit.

Official Fox Statement
At this time, we do not have a cause for the failure of the camera drive line that interrupted tonight's Coca Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and our immediate concern is with the injured fans.

The camera system consists of three ropes -- a drive rope which moves the camera back and forth, and two guide ropes on either side. The drive rope failed near the Turn 1 connection and fell to the track. The camera itself did not come down because guide ropes acted as designed. A full investigation is planned, and use of the camera is suspended indefinitely.

This camera system had been used successfully at this year's Daytona 500, last week's NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race and other major events around the world. We certainly regret that the system failure affected tonight's event, we apologize to the racers whose cars were damaged, and our immediate concern is for the race fans. We also offer a sincere ‘thank you' to the staff at CMS for attending to the injuries and keeping us informed on this developing situation.

When we have more information on the cause of the equipment failure, we will share it with you immediately.



May
27th

Top 10 Worst Vehicles for Drive-Thrus

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Drive-thrus are a way of life in North America. From Dunkin' Donuts to the average bank, driving up to a window for a service is now commonplace.

Most restaurants and other businesses with drive-thrus are designed to accommodate the average car and SUV. Some of these lazy-lanes are tight and can be hard on alloy wheels, but most of us in our Corollas and Accords can negotiate them just fine.

However, some vehicles are not at all drive-thru friendly. As a public service to our readers, we put together this list of vehicles that should not be purchased if you are a drive-thru regular.

Hummer H1
Hummer H1
Photo: General Motors

Nearly as wide as a smart fortwo is long, the H1 moves about town with the grace of a rhino in an antique store. Heck, a freeway onramp is tight for the H1. Best break out the ladder and order in person.

Continue reading Top 10 Worst Vehicles for Drive-Thrus

May
27th

GP2: Coletti takes home win in Monaco

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Stefano Coletti won on home soil this past weekend, claiming victory in the second GP2 race presented in the streets of Monaco.

Coletti, who started from 3rd position on the grid, moved up to second at the start, and put the pressure on Adrian Quaiffe Hobbs who started from pole position.

Coletti overtook the Brit on lap 2 at the exit of the tunnel, and then cruised to victory.

Coletti crossed the finish line less than two seconds ahead of Quaife Hobbs, and Mitch Evans completed the podium.

Stefano Coletti now leads the point standings, 24 points ahead of Felipe Nasr, who took 4th place in Monaco race 2.

Stefano Coletti, GP2
Photo: GP2

Race 2:
1 - Stefano Coletti - Rapax - 30 laps in 42'50"707
2 - Adrian Quaife Hobbs - MP Motorsport - 1"869
3 - Mitch Evans - Arden - 2"218
4 - Felipe Nasr - Carlin - 2"538
5 - James Calado - ART - 3"747

6 - Rene Binder - Lazarus - 19"293
7 - Kevin Ceccon - Trident - 20"015
8 - Stephane Richelmi - Dams - 20"576
Etc.

Championship:
1.Coletti 120 points ; 2.Nasr 96; 3.Bird 58; 4.Leimer 54; 5.Calado 40; 6.Frijns 37; 7.Evans 36; 8.Palmer 31; 9.Ceccon 28; 10.Rossi 27, etc.


May
27th

2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Review

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Taking the high road
Recently, we've spent a great deal of time in hybrid vehicles at Auto123.com. I guess it's a sign of the times, and something we've got to get used to (read: I have to get used to).

Thanks, in no small part, to the likes of Toyota and Lexus hybrid systems, I may just yet learn to love them. Hands down, they offer some of the best units out there. From the Prius to the CT 200h, Toyota has some great hybrid products out there, and the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of them.


What is a Toyota Highlander Hybrid?
The Toyota Highlander hit North American soil in 2001. In 2006, a hybrid version (the first available 7-seater hybrid on the market) emerged powered by a V6 and a part-time, all-wheel drive system in which the rear wheels were powered by a separate electric motor.

Since then, the Highlander has seen one major exterior update. At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Toyota announced that the third generation Toyota Highlander will see a whole new look with room for eight and three powertrains available.

Technicalities

The 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD-i features all-wheel drive and Toyota's advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive. Powered via a 3.5L 6-cylinder, it pushes out 280 horpsepower (with the help of the electric motor). And while I'm usually not a fan of the CVT, Toyota's version is actually alright to drive; enjoyable without being too aggravating.

While the non-hybrid Toyota Highlander offers up two different motors (2.7L or 3.5L) and three different trim levels, the Highlander Hybrid offers only one engine and two trim levels: Hybrid 4WD-I (which was my tester) and the Hybrid Limited 4WD-I. A regular, base Toyota Highlander starts in the $30k range, while my particular vehicle starts at $43,400 ($49,670 with options).

2013 Toyota Highlander hybride Limited engine
Powered via a 3.5L 6-cylinder, it pushes out 280 horpsepower (with the help of the electric motor). (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

Driving the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Conveniently, the week I had the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Matt St-Pierre had a 2013 Lexus RX450 h which meant we were able to really see how the Toyota hybrid cousins stacked up against one another in terms of driveability, comfort and convenience. You'll have to check out the complete comparo, but know this: The Toyota Highlander surprised, on more than one front.

As far as drive is concerned, the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid -- blissfully -- drives like a “normal” car. The CVT is actually pleasant and not too noisy when pushed. Toyota's hybrid system is nearly seamless in its electric-to-gas transitions.

I averaged fuel numbers in the 10L/100km range which impressed me for a vehicle its size and weight, but high for this hybrid.

Handling in the 2013 Highlander Hybrid is nice and tight. While I absolutely hated the minuscule steering wheel (felt like I was holding a spaghetti noodle), the connected feel is great and offers the driver a sense of control.

The suspension ensures the ride in the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is as smooth as butter... without being too soft and floaty. I took the Highlander on some pretty bumpy roads and managed to keep my venti salted caramel latte in the cup.

2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited side view
I averaged fuel numbers in the 10L/100km range which impressed me for a vehicle its size and weight, but high for this hybrid. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

Inside and out of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Facelifted for 2011, the front of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid looks sharp and aggressive. Small, angular headlights atop accented fog-light openings, the front grille seem simple but it does the job. Subtle wheel arches atop 19” also work well.

I really liked the interior of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, if for no other reason than the fact that there were tactile knobs and buttons to push, along with the infotainment touchscreen. Equipped with a JBL sound system, perforated leather seats, and a host of amenities (like a backup camera, keyless entry and even rear reading lamps), the Highlander Hybrid is an upscale SUV anyone would be happy to drive around in.

Although, I wouldn't recommend the rear seat be used by anyone over the age of 6 as it is a bit tight back there. Also of note: With the 3rd row up, cargo space dwindles to just 10.3 cu-ft, whereas sans 3rd row up it's a decent 42.4 cu-ft.

2013 Toyota Highlander hybride Limited driver's cockpit
I really liked the interior of the 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, if for no other reason than the fact that there were tactile knobs and buttons to push, along with the infotainment touchscreen. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

Comparing the Toyota Highlander Hybrid
There isn't a whole out there at the moment in terms of a 7-seater hybrid vehicle. Ford's 2.0L EcoBoost Explorer is a decent alternative, as is the VW Touareg TDI, minus 2 spots. And if you're all about the Americans, you can also look to the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid as a massive hybrid alternative.

All in all, I think Toyota has a decent product in the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and I think the price reflects what you get: lots of room, fuel efficiency, and usability.
May
27th

AUTO123.COM – RSS 2013-05-27 00:00:00

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From GMM

Pirelli is closer to inking a deal to stay in formula one beyond 2013, following a meeting in Monaco.

After Paul Hembery warned that Pirelli could quit F1 due to the delayed negotiations, Spain's AS sports newspaper reports that Pirelli president Marco Tronchetti Provera met with Bernie Ecclestone.

"We are approaching the conditions (to sign)," Provera said, "so we'll see.

"The fact is that Bernie is happy with us and also our company is still interested in the F1 project, so I hope we can get to an agreement soon and all will be well," he added.

F1 Pirelli motorhome
Photo: Pirelli

Tronchetti Provera said he is proud of Pirelli's contribution to the sport so far.

"We were asked to add more 'show' to the races, and I think the races are better now than before our arrival, so I think in that sense we have succeeded," he insisted.

As for the controversy caused by Pirelli's heavily degrading compounds in 2013, he explained: "We have developed the tires with a car several years old, and with not enough days of testing."

Meanwhile, it seems Pirelli will introduce some changes to its tire design for Canada in two weeks after all, despite the opposition of some teams, including Sahara Force India.

"I did it like the old days. I told the teams that they should be united," Bernie Ecclestone is quoted by Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

"Pirelli will modify its tires as planned," the F1 chief executive revealed.


May
27th

AUTO123.COM – RSS 2013-05-27 00:00:00

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We've all said it: “I'm going for a drive.”

Whether or not you've got a purpose in mind, it's not the destination, it's the journey that matters, and the fact that we're choosing (at that particular pivotal moment in our lives) to turn to a vehicle to proceed. I've noticed over the years, that “the drive” comes up in a number of situations, and it's made me realize how important vehicles are to us as humans (and not just as modes of transportation).

The Angry Drive
While not the most pleasant, it is perhaps one of the more popular “drives.” Usually occurring after a marital or relationship spat, this drive is often not announced and is simply prefaced by one partner angrily grabbing the keys to their vehicle and storming out the front door. Said drive is therapeutic, relaxing, relieving and may even offer the driver time to think about what he/she has said or done so they may return home in a better place.

The Romantic Drive
This one's much nicer. Usually reserved for a Sunday afternoon when the sun is shining and the weather is warm, the Romantic Drive requires more than one in the car for obvious reasons. With absolutely no destination in mind and an air for adventure, this kind of drive could lead you virtually anywhere. As long as the two of you are together in your motorized vehicle.

The Sleepy Drive

New parents will understand this kind of drive better than most. I myself used it on more than one occasion. For some reason, babies are lulled to sleep in a moving vehicle. At 2 a.m. when your child has been screaming bloody murder for no apparent reason and you're about ready to break down and cry for the tenth time, placing your child in the car seat then driving around your sleepy neighbourhood in your bunny slippers and flannel PJs will be one of the best ideas you'll have had in ages. Trust me.

The Introspective Drive
It seems counterintuitive to say a vehicle is a great place to lose yourself because there's so much to pay attention to while you drive, but it's true. On more than one Introspective Drive I've discovered a great deal about myself (and by association, the car I'm driving) because of our alone time, the road we're on and sometimes even the destination.

The Drive

Sometimes a flippant, “Honey, I'm going for a drive” means nothing more than that: a drive. The wind in your hair, throttle beneath your right foot, gear lever in hand; bliss. There's nothing quite like it. Leave the world behind and drive. What more could you ask for?

Our vehicles are about more than just getting us to work, dropping us off at school and picking up the groceries on the weekend. They're about more than gas prices and insurance quotes. They're more than metal, plastic and rubber.

Our vehicles are an integral part of our lives. They engrain themselves in our everyday activities, become part of our impromptu adventures, our silly internet photo shoots, and our life lessons. They teach, they entice and they tease. Cars are an extension of our families and our family's lives.



May
27th

Porsche Supercup: Ogier beats Loeb

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Sean Edwards dominated the Porsche Supercup race presented in Monaco while Sebastien Ogier took 13th position, as Sebastien Loeb ended the race in 16th place.

Loeb already raced in the Porsche Supercup in Barcelona two weeks eaagorlier, where finished 11th. In Monaco, he was joined by WRC regular Sebastien Ogier who entered the race at the wheel of the Porsche 911 GT3.

Ogier classified 11th in qualifying, as Loeb was 13th fastest at the end of the session.

In the race, Ogier crossed the finish line in 13th position, three spots ahead of Loeb.

The race was dominated by Sean Edwards, who already claimed victory in the opening round in Barcelona. Edwards led from start to finish, after  starting from pole position.

Porsche GT Sebastien Ogier Sebastien Loeb
Sebastien Loeb and Sebastien Ogier in Monaco. (Photo: Volkswagen Motorsport)



May
27th

F1: Kamui Kobayashi tests Ferrari F10 Formula 1car

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From Ferrari

The Fiorano test circuit was the scene of Kamui Kobayashi's first drive at the wheel of a Ferrari Formula 1 car, the F10 that competed in the World Championship three years ago.

Kobayashi has been part of the Ferrari family since March, racing a Ferrari 458 in GT races.

Kamui Kobayashi, Ferrari F10
Kamui Kobayashi, Ferrari F10 (Photo: Ferrari)

Kobayashi didn't take long to get to grips with the F10 in what was a preparatory test for when he will drive it in the Moscow City Racing event, which will see the F1 car shoot through the streets of the Russian capital over the weekend of July 21.

“The first feeling was one of great happiness,” commented the Japanese driver after the short test.

Kamui Kobayashi, Ferrari F10
Kamui Kobayashi, Ferrari F10 (Photo: Ferrari)

“I raced against this car and I knew how quick it was, so it was very important to get some experience of it. Last year's race in Brazil was the last time I drove a Formula 1 car and now I am racing in WEC (World Endurance Championship) in a 458 GT and the impressions are completely different. But it wasn't hard to readapt, because in the past, I've driven all sorts of cars and I'm used to change. It will be very nice to drive an F1 car again at this event in Moscow and for me it will be a double debut: the first time at the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car in an event and my first visit to the city.”

Kamui Kobayashi, Ferrari F10
Kamui Kobayashi, Ferrari F10 (Photo: Ferrari)


May
27th

Indy 500: Tony Kanaan at last!!

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KV Racing's Tony Kanaan has been around for a long time but for once he will add his name to the prestigious Indianapolis 500 winner's trophy after earning his first ever victory at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

In a race that saw no less than 68 lead changes, the KV Racing Technology driver took the lead for the final time when he passed Ryan Hunter-Reay on a restart with three laps left to run.

Indy 500 Tony Kanaan KV Racing
Tony Kanaan, KV Racing. (Photo: IMS)

But when Dario Franchitti crashed and immediately brought the yellows back out, that left anyone wanting to challenge Kanaan's lead with nowhere to go; the final laps being completed under caution.

Rookie Carlos Munoz (Andretti Autosport), who has run amongst the leaders all through practice and qualifying, finished second in front of his teammates Ryan Hunter-Reay and Marco Andretti who finished respectively third and fourth.

Dale Coyne Racing's Justin Wilson was the first Honda-powered driver across the line in fifth, the Brit jumping ahead of Helio Castroneves in the final laps, while AJ Allmendinger (Penske Racing) drove a great race all afternoon on his way to seventh.

Simon Pagenaud, Charlie Kimball and polesitter Ed Carpenter, who started strongly but faded later in the race, completed the top 10.

Indy 500 Tony Kanaan
Tony Kanaan. (Photo: IMS)

97Th edition of the Indianapolis 500 Results - 200 laps:

Pos   Driver  Team/Engine  Time/Gap
1. Tony Kanaan   KV/Chevy   2h40m03.4181s
2. Carlos Munoz  Andretti/Chevy  + 0.1159
3. Ryan Hunter-Reay  Andretti/Chevy  + 0.2480
4. Marco Andretti   Andretti/Chevy  + 0.3634
5. Justin Wilson  Coyne/Honda  + 0.8138
6. Helio Castroneves  Penske/Chevy  + 3.0086
7. AJ Allmendinger  Penske/Chevy  + 4.0107
8. Simon Pagenaud   Schmidt/Honda  + 4.2609
9. Charlie Kimball   Ganassi/Honda   + 5.6864
10. Ed Carpenter   Carpenter/Chevy  + 6.8425
11. Oriol Servia  Panther DRR/Chevy  + 7.8633
12. Ryan Briscoe   Ganassi/Honda  + 8.9216
13. Takuma Sato  Foyt/Honda  + 10.2602
14. Scott Dixon  Ganassi/Honda  + 11.3858
15. Ana Beatriz  Coyne/Honda  + 12.2657
16. Tristan Vautier  Schmidt/Honda  + 15.3045
17. Simona De Silvestro   KV/Chevy  + 15.7201
18. EJ Viso   Andretti/Chevy  + 17.8056
19. Will Power  Penske/Chevy   + 22.5403
20. James Jakes  Rahal/Honda  + 1 lap
21. James Hinchcliffe  Andretti/Chevy   + 1 lap
22. Conor Daly  Foyt/Honda   + 2 laps
23. Dario Franchitti  Ganassi/Honda  + 3 laps*
24. Alex Tagliani  Herta/Honda   + 4 laps
25. Graham Rahal  Rahal/Honda  + 7 laps*
26. Katherine Legge   Schmidt/Honda  + 7 laps
27. Townsend Bell   Panther/Chevy  + 8 laps
28. Josef Newgarden  Fisher/Honda  + 9 laps

* Not running at finish

Retirements
Sebastien Bourdais  Dragon/Chevy   178 laps
Pippa Mann  Coyne/Honda  46 laps
Buddy Lazier   Lazier/Chevy   44 laps
Sebastian Saavedra  Dragon/Chevy   34 laps
JR Hildebrand   Panther/Chevy  3 laps


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