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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently published a study that claims drivers who bring their pets along -- and fail to properly restrain them -- are more likely to end up in a crash. In the case of seniors (70 and older), the risk is double.

“This is the first study to evaluate the presence of pets in a vehicle as a potential internal distraction for elderly drivers,” said Gerald McGwin, Ph.D., a professor in the Departments of Epidemiology, Ophthalmology and Surgery and senior author of the study.

However, more than the fact that their pets can move around the interior and even find their way on the gear shifter or under the pedals, drivers are apparently distracted by their mere presence in the car.

While 83% of the participants in the study agreed it was unsafe to allow pets to travel in a vehicle unrestrained, only 16% attempted to use any type of pet safety restraint.

Hawaii is currently the only U.S. state that specifically restricts drivers from having a pet in their lap. Arizona, Connecticut and Maine have broader laws against driving distractions that could be applicable to pets in a vehicle.

Source: The Detroit Bureau

From GMM

Ross Brawn has warned Mercedes against making more big changes to the team that could result in a performance dip.

It was believed McLaren's 'gardening leave' technical director Paddy Lowe was set to replace Brawn as the Brackley based team's boss in 2014.

And, following the recent departure of Norbert Haug and the arrival at Mercedes of new shareholders Niki Lauda and Toto Wolff, it has been rumoured that further staff changes at the team's UK headquarters could now follow.

Photo: WRi2

Brawn, however, warned that more upheaval could actually hurt the team.

"You must always look to improve ... without damaging what you have, which is very easy to do. It's a very delicate evolution," he is quoted by Sporting Life.

Back-to-back 2013 pole sitter Mercedes has produced a better car this year than its predecessor, off the back of major changes to the engineering lineup 12 months ago.

But Brawn warned that more changes now could actually result in a step backwards.

"Changes were made back then which were painful at the time, and were part of the reason why we had a poor second half to last season," he said.

"We have now a very motivated group of people, and we're starting to put the things in place they need. You can always look to add to it and tune it to improve, but you mustn't damage what you already have," he added.

Photo: WRi2

Like most teams, Mercedes will unveil a package of improvements next weekend in Barcelona, the first European race of 2013 following the initial 'flyaway' period.

Ross Brawn said no one should expect the changes to result in immediate wins.

"We've two drivers who have taken the equipment and done what they have (pole position) on the last two Saturdays," he is quoted by the Sun newspaper. "But I don't think we have the equipment yet to be the strongest in the race."

General Motors is the first automaker among 40 major U.S. companies, including IKEA, L'Oréal, Symantec, Unilever, and Adidas, to sign a “Climate Declaration.” They are calling for policymakers to address climate change by promoting clean energy, boosting efficiency, and limiting carbon emissions.

“We want to be a change agent in the auto industry,” said Mike Robinson, vice president of Sustainability and Global Regulatory Affairs at GM. “As our world faces issues like congestion and climate change, we are at the forefront in transforming the way we move, from building more efficient vehicles to partnering with car-sharing startup Relay Rides.”

GM is striving to reduce its environmental footprint and achieve a 20% reduction in energy consumption by 2020.

Sebastien Loeb (Citroën), who only competes in selected rounds of the WRC this season, says no one will prevent Sebastien Ogier (Volkswagen) to clinch championship at the end of the year.

As the nine-time World Rally Champion captured victory in the opening round of the season atMonte Carlo, Ogier offered Volkswagen its first WRC win at the second round of the season, in Sweden.

Then, as Loeb withdrew from WRC to compete in FIA GT Series with his own racing team, Ogier took two consecutive wins in Mexico and Portugal.

Sebastien Loeb (Citroën) and Sebastien Ogier (Volkswagen), in Argentina. (Photo: WRC)

Loeb, who is making a one-shot return in Argentina this weekend, reckons that nobody was in position to beat his fellow countryman this season.

"He seems very comfortable in his car, which is well born," said Loeb. "It makes a good package. We knew he was very quick and so there is no real surprise. According to me, he is at the level where we thought he could be. I don't think anyone can beat him."

"On paper, it looks like he will win the title very soon, but it's never finished before it is and we have also experienced seasons where fate and luck were going up and down," Loeb added. "As far as I know from the team, the Polos have encountered a lot of technical problems, so they might have some too."

At the end of day 1, Sebastien Ogier leads Rally Argentina, 16.7 seconds ahead of Sebastien Loeb.

Price Range: $24,495 to $47,245-plus

Description: Designed to blend old-school styling and muscle with modern-day flare and technology, the Dodge Challenger lineup hits the 2013 model year with numerous updates and enhancements. A number of special packages and models add to selection with the Challenger, as do numerous powertrain options.

With seating for five, numerous awards from industry authorities for owner satisfaction and over 45 standard safety features, the 2013 Dodge Challenger is a modern-day muscle car that family-minded driving enthusiasts can confidently consider for purchase.

All Challenger models are two-door coupes with rear-wheel drive.

Drivetrain: Look for 6- or 8-cylinder power under the hood of your new Challenger, depending on the model in question.

The 6-cylinder unit is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 with a cold-air induction system and dual exhausts on most models for up to 305 track-ready horsepower at 6,350 rpm and a responsive 268 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. Thanks to its all-aluminum construction, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine provides the 2013 Dodge Challenger with a 52/48 front-to-rear weight distribution for improved balance and handling making it more entertaining to drive. A 5-speed AutoStick transmission with available paddle-shift is included.

Photo: Dodge

V8-powered models feature the legendary 5.7L HEMI V8, tuned to generate up to 375 horsepower and even more torque. A Tremec 6-speed manual transmission is available, as is an automatic with paddle-shift. When equipped with the automatic, the HEMI uses cylinder-deactivation technology to help save fuel, too.

Top-line 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8 models get a 6.4L HEMI V8 with 470 horsepower, backed up by track-validated chassis and brake modifications, and various supporting upgrades.

Consider it if: you're after a family-ready muscle car that's surprisingly easy to live with and packed full of cutting-edge technology features. The rear seats in the 2013 Dodge Challenger are surprisingly spacious, and the front seats can accommodate even larger adults. The 6-cylinder engine is potent and fuel-efficient, and the HEMI V8 turns in decent mileage and very potent power output -- alongside an unmistakable soundtrack.

Skip it if: the poor rearward visibility makes your life too complicated. For that reason, as well as its large turning radius, the 2013 Dodge Challenger is really not the easiest car to park. Moreover, the manual gearbox isn't available with the V6.

Other Notes: The 2013 Dodge Challenger has a generous trunk, and is available with navigation, Bluetooth with media streaming, voice-command, a Boston Acoustics stereo system upgrade, and push-button start. Automatic climate control, automatic xenon lights, and heated seats are all on board, as well.

Photo: Dodge

Don't Miss: The SRT8. This 2013 Challenger model embodies the highest expression of Challenger performance and has a recalibrated suspension system that delivers world-class handling dynamics. Brembo brakes at each corner ensure stopping power matches the frightening thrust from its punched-out V8 engine. A performance computer and numerous visual cues are applied, too.

An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power in the 2013 Dodge Challenger SRT8. Owners can expect 0-60 in the high 4-second range, alongside quarter-mile passes in the high 12-second range.

Organisers of the Japan Super GT series have decided to cancel the exhibition race scheduled for later this month at the Korean International Circuit in South Korea.

Italiaracing.net writes Friday that the race, planned for May 18 and 19 has been cancelled, although the news has yet to be officialised.

Rumours suggest that the event was cancelled because of the high costs of shipping the cars and equipment from Japan to South Korea, and mostly because of the high political tension created by North Korea.

The Super GT series was to be the first major international racing event to be held in South Korea this year at Yeongam. The Formula 1 Grand Prix is scheduled for October 4 to 6 later this year.

Photo: Japan Super GT Series

Highlights*
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR is nicely equipped (even in base trim) and backed by one of the industry's best warranties. It also offers good visibility and pleasant handling.

Lowlights*
A single engine is available, and the optional CVT proves noisy. The lack of sound-deadening materials throughout the vehicle doesn't help. What's more, some of the technology feels a bit dated.

Pricing
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR comes in four trim levels: ES 2WD, SE 2WD, SE 4WD, and GT 4WD. Buyers can specify a 10th Anniversary Package, as well. Pricing ranges from $19,998 to $28,998.

Photo: Mitsubishi

Fuel consumption
In 2WD configuration, this small crossover achieves 8.6L/100km in the city and 6.4L/100km on the highway with the standard manual transmission or 8.1L/100km in the city and 6.1L/100km on the highway with the CVT. Meanwhile, 4WD models (which all use the CVT) are not much thirstier, as evidenced by their ratings of 8.6L and 6.7L/100km, respectively.

Styling
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR shares its compact platform with the Lancer and Outlander. An aggressive front fascia and sharp body creases give the vehicle a bold, sporty look.

Cargo capacity
With the rear seats up, you can load 614 litres of cargo; fold them down, and you wind up with 1,402 litres of room. The fact of the matter is that cargo capacity is not what makes the RVR stand out from the competition.

Powertrain
As mentioned earlier, the 2013 Mitsubishi RVR makes do with a single engine option: a 2.0L 4-cylinder unit that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission has five gears only, and the available CVT includes paddle shifters in top-of-the-line GT 4WD trim. By the way, Mitsubishi's 4WD system is called “All-Wheel Control” (AWC).

Safety
RVR occupants benefit from seven standard airbags, active stability and traction control, along with ABS and brake assist. A tire pressure monitoring system is included in every model, and buyers can add a rearview camera.

Photo: Mitsubishi

Warranty
The 2013 Mitsubishi RVR comes with a 5-year/100,000-km comprehensive limited warranty, a 10-year/160,000-km powertrain warranty, plus five years of roadside assistance.

Competitors
Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Subaru XV Crosstrek, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4


*Based on expert reviews.
Poirier-Defoy Michel, L'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.442
Laguë Philippe, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montreal Transcontinental, 2012, p.462
www.mitsubishi-motors.ca

From GMM

In the wake of the 'Multi-21' team orders debacle, an important question has emerged at Red Bull -- who is really in charge?

On the one side is team boss Christian Horner, who co-owns a GP3 team with Australian Webber, and who called Sebastian Vettel "silly" in Malaysia for refusing to follow the famous order.

But not only have the sort of team orders that should have delivered victory to Webber now been scrapped by Red Bull, it seems the Australian driver's very future at the team could soon end.

Mark Webber and Helmut Marko. (Photo: Red Bull Racing)

Some suspect the increasingly strong influence of Dr Helmut Marko, the Vettel-aligned, right-hand man of Austrian countryman and team owner Dietrich Mateschitz.

Horner found the need this week to insist that Marko actually has "no operational responsibility or input" into how the team is run, and is just "an advisor".

But Spain's El Confidential claims that, mere weeks ago, Marko gave a very different account of his role at Red Bull.

"I am a director of Red Bull Racing alongside Christian and Mateschitz," he is quoted as saying.

"Whatever happens in the team comes to me and, if necessary, I take it up to the owner (Mateschitz), so I take the final decision."

Price Range: $41,400 and up

Description: The 1 Series might be the smallest BMW-branded vehicle sold in Canada by the German marquee, but its living proof that big-time driving pleasure can come in small packages -- especially with the roof down.

The highly sporty, two-door drop-top sets itself apart with a bright, alert and dynamic fascia, a compact and athletic stance and numerous high-end touches like side-marker lamps, a chrome grille treatment and LED-ring headlamp accents.

All models are two-door, four-seat machines that are engineered to be lightweight and highly entertaining to drive, thanks in no small part to a 50/50 weight distribution between the axles.

The fully motorized top can be dismissed in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button, and when it's up, extensive sound insulation and aerodynamic efforts keep offensive wind noise to a minimum.

Photo: BMW

Drivetrain: All 2013 BMW 1 Series models are rear-wheel drive and powered by a 6-cylinder engine. The first of these is a 3.0L naturally aspirated unit with variable valve timing tuned to make 230 efficient horsepower. A turbocharged straight-6 engine is also available, and generates 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

Consider it if: a blend of luxury, fuel efficiency and performance are top priorities in your next convertible. The 2013 BMW 1-Series is capable of generating some impressive figures in terms of both performance and fuel consumption. As a four-seater, it's also ready for a pair of kids in the back, as needed. As a premium model, safety and sophistication are both top-notch.

Skip it if: you're on a tight budget, as the $41,400 asking price for a basic 2013 BMW 1 Series model is lofty compared to numerous other performance coupes. Though most drivers will find the 1 Series adequately sized, some will wish for more interior space.

Other Notes: Features? You got it. The 2013 BMW 1 Series offers:
- Adaptive headlamps;
- Navigation;
- Bluetooth;
- Premium audio, and plenty more.

Push-button start, Google integration and automatic climate control are all on board, as are USB audio integration and the BMW assist service.

Photo: BMW

Don't Miss: the iDrive console. Once drivers go through a moderate learning curve, this innovative system allows manipulation of hundreds of vehicle functions via a few millimeters of fingertip movement thought a central dial. Many functions, including navigation destination entry, can be manipulated by voice command via a small button on the steering wheel.

Various interior colour schemes are available to fine-tune the 2013 BMW 1 Series to the owner's taste for either a sporty or luxurious atmosphere.

Making it easy for drivers to stay connected while on the move, the BMW 1 Series also offers special BMW apps that connect with the driver's smartphone. From the central command screen and iDrive console, drivers can access Twitter, Facebook, internet radio programs, newsfeeds, and more.

Denny Hamlin, injured in a crash at Auto Club Speedway in April, has been clear to drive at this week's race at Talladega Super Speedway.

Hamlin who drives for Joe Gibbs racing has received medical clearance to return to on-track activity beginning with this weekend's NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Talladega Superspeedway in the No. 11 FedEx Express Toyota.


Denny Hamlin has missed the past four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races while recovering. 


Exact plans for this weekend will be determined by the team at Talladega. 

Photo: NASCAR

The Verdict
BMW's more sporting and dynamic alternative to the 7 Series sees high class, luxury flagship amenities fitted to a striking new four-door coupe that's saturated with technology, class, and a tremendous attention to detail. A truly world-class look and cabin set this one apart -- as does performance from the recently enhanced engine.

The Premise
Big flagship sedans like the S-Class, A8 and 7 Series are stately and traditional, which is exactly why there's a younger generation of shoppers demanding a more youthful and dynamic alternative.

Answering their call are machines like the Porsche Panamera, Mercedes CLS and Audi A7. These turn in high-speed, high-luxury transportation for business-y types who don't want to pilot a conventional land yacht. In this new breed of machinery, you're more likely to be mistaken for a sports star than a real estate agent.


That's perhaps especially true in the latest entry from BMW: the 650i Gran Coupe. Though confusingly named in light of its massive size and four-door body, the latest 6 Series deviation sees sleek, swoopy, and quietly aggressive looks applied with a level of visual energy uncharacteristic of a traditional flagship sedan.

World-class cabin
A sunny Sunday afternoon photo shoot with my photographer pal was meant to be spent enjoying the spring weather while capturing the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe, digitally. Behind the lens, layer upon layer of engaging shapes, curvaceous panels, and daring intersections presented themselves.

Wood, aluminum, stitching, and ceramic dials blend with various contrasting textures, colours, and materials. Here's a cabin that begs inspection with the eyes and fingertips -- and the camera lens, if you're so inclined.

My photography partner got clicking away inside the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe, and after a few moments advised me that we could be there a while.

Thanks, in large part, to an options list priced similarly to a top-line Honda Accord, the features list is just as impressive. Though I've insufficient space to list them all, night vision, circulation-enhancing massage seats, a heads-up display, sunshade blinds, and self-sealing doors should prove an adequate cross-section of the available features.

Included was a $5,900 stereo upgrade with components from Bang & Olufsen: a company made famous for loudspeaker equipment for concerts. This is one of the cleanest, brightest-sounding stereos I've ever heard in a car; and the pop-up centre channel on the dash is a curiously interesting touch.

All said, the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe is like the business lounge at a luxury hotel, with a giant stereo, and a twin-turbo V8.

Thanks, in large part, to an options list priced similarly to a top-line Honda Accord, the features list is just as impressive. (Photo: BMW)

Discreetly aggressive
Said V8 is BMW's 4.4L unit that was recently fitted with the brand's “Valvetronic” system for a healthy increase in horsepower to 443. The tester's sports exhaust sounded lovely, even if surprisingly prevalent at times given the otherwise quiet and laid-back nature of the Gran Coupe.

Low-end torque is remarkably robust and lets the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe waft past slower traffic without a downshift from the 8-speed automatic. Shifts in either direction, via the shift paddles or gear lever, are executed with literal imperceptibility.

At full throttle, meaty V8 sounds saturate the cabin as the 650i Gran Coupe increases its velocity at an almost alarming rate. Though far from a machine designed for rambunctious hooliganism, it's more than capable of getting lead-footed owners into trouble.

At full throttle, meaty V8 sounds saturate the cabin as the 650i Gran Coupe increases its velocity at an almost alarming rate. (Photo: BMW)

Driving notes
Despite the massive size, the 2013 BMW 650i feels more like a big coupe than a big sedan. The roof is low, and all seating positions are surrounded by thickset doors and dash panels. Front seats offer near infinite adjustability, and the rears are pillow-y and deep.

In all, the BMW 650i Gran Coupe isn't cramped (unless you're big and tall), but this isn't a car you're going to stretch out in. Visibility out the rear window is very limited, but no fewer than four body-mounted cameras and several radar alert systems help prevent “oopsies” in tight quarters.

The size and weight at play translate into typical big-BMW dynamics while driving. Regardless of shock absorber and steering stiffness dialed in by the drive-mode selector, the underlying feel is one of solid, precise confidence. Though the Gran Coupe will rip around bends with hefty athleticism, it's ultimately a big, heavy car and drives that way.

The roof is low, and all seating positions are surrounded by thickset doors and dash panels. (Photo: BMW)

Success?
At the end of the day, this latest four-door 6 Series is every bit as luxurious, comfortable, and classy as a 7 Series -- but in a package that's more personal, concentrated, and passionate.

Given the price, the list of complaints was as short as expected. Aside from potential issues for taller passengers and limited visibility, I noted slightly higher than expected levels of at-speed wind noise in the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe. Ultimately though, here's a car that feels, and especially looks, the part of its price tag.

Selection is key in this price range, too; so you can have the 6 Series in a regular two-door coupe, the Gran Coupe or a ragtop or a fire-breathing M6 variant of either of the latter. Test-driving each 6 Series variant -- as well as comparable Audi, Mercedes, and Porsche models -- is recommended for decision-making purposes. Having to choose one of these is a nice problem to have.

From GMM

Mercedes says it would be willing to give Robert Kubica a formula one test.

The German marque this week declined to comment on reports the Pole has been driving at the wheel of Mercedes' sophisticated F1 simulator at Brackley.

But Kubica, 28, did confirm the reports, prompting shareholder and chairman Toto Wolff to admit on Friday that the former BMW and Renault driver is "helping" Mercedes.

"If there's any chance of getting him back in a DTM touring car or F1 cockpit, we'd love to do it," he told the BBC. "Any team would love to have a Robert Kubica."

Toto Wolff clarified, however, that Kubica - whose right arm is still injured in the wake of his near-fatal 2011 crash - is now mainly focused on rallying.

"He is somebody I have known for 10 years but it's absolutely his call how he wants to help us and his main focus is rallying," he said.

Robert Kubica and Toto Wolff. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

In most Formula 1 cars, the DRS (Drag Reduction System) is activated by the driver pushing on a button located on the steering wheel. Ferrari however uses a different system.

In most F1 cars, the DRS is activated by pressing on that button and is automatically deactivated when the driver starts to brake.

“When the rear flap comes back into its original position, it takes a fraction of a second for the air flows to reattach. If the driver starts to brake hard when the two flows are still perturbed, braking is not as effective as it should be,” Laurent Mekies, head of vehicle engineering at Toro Rosso told Auto123.com.

This year's Ferrari F138 has two pedals, like in any other F1 car. But according to veteran F1 journalist and engineer, Giorgio Piola, there is a third small pedal or s switch located on the far left.

When Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa want to activate the DRS, they move their left foot to the left and press on that switch. The DRS is open.

Coming to a braking zone, they move their left foot from the DRS switch to the brake pedal. That fraction of a second gives the system enough time to return the flap of the rear wing to the high downforce position for effective braking.

Photo: WRi2

IndyCar's track designer Tony Cotman is expecting more speed and more overtaking on the streets of Sao Paulo following changes that have been made to the track for the upcoming Sao Paulo Indy 300 presented by Nestle.

A modification to Turns 1 and 2 of the 2.536-mile street circuit will maximize passing opportunities for the drivers as well as give them a chance to post faster lap times during qualifying.

“Turn 2 is about 10 feet wider now and the curbs that are there have been lowered, so the corner will be quicker, without question. The goal was to help improve things for double-file restarts and particularly in the rain. We've seen how difficult it can be over the years.” Said Cotman

The widening of the corner will allow cars to race side-by-side as they come off the concrete portion of the Sambadrome and into complex known as the “S” of Samba.

Cotman also said there has been some smoothening of bumps, particularly in Turn 10, as well as some drainage issues.

Start of the 2012 edition. (Photo: LAT/IndyCar)

Hourly workers at a Flex-N-Gate plant in Arlington, Texas, voted to join the UAW on Wednesday. Of the 73 employees eligible to vote, 51 voted in favor of union representation and 22 opposed, the National Labor Relations Board said today.

General Motors has agreed to buy the original Durant-Dort Carriage Company factory in Flint, Mich., a site GM North America President Mark Reuss calls "the birthplace of GM."

On Thursday, the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 was announced, and if you are one to get excited about pace cars, it's time to get excited.

Honda plans to build a $470 million factory in Celaya, Mexico, to assemble continuously variable transmissions.

Driven by a domestic-brand sales surge, AutoNation, the nation's largest dealership group, reported a 10 percent gain in new-vehicle sales in April.

2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCab

The Raptor doesn't flinch when bounding down dirt roads at 60 mph.

It was tempting to go off-road into the median on M-14 this morning, as snow squalls turned the highway into a parking lot. Though this is a stiffly sprung truck, it was actually fairly comfortable on my 2-hour commutes during rush hour. Roads were so slick that it was easy to slide the Raptor around a bit, and I did so as I drove into our office park.

Photo Gallery: 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCab - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine

Photo Gallery: 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCab - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine

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