Auto News 5

From Grand Prix du Canada

The Grand Prix F1 du Canada announced the return of its inaugural gala "The Grand Evening", Thursday, June 6th.

This social event bringing together Formula 1 team executives and drivers as well as the city's business community, will once again take place at the "Arsenal" Contemporary Art Gallery.

Grand Soir 2012 at the Arsenal. (Photo: WRi2)

All proceeds will go to the Fondation de l'Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal and the Canadian Olympic Foundation.

Bernard Ecclestone, president and CEO of the Formula One Group has agreed once more to act as Honorary Co-Chair of honor. He will share this responsibility with Marcel Aubut, senior partner at the Heenan Blaikie LLP and President of the Canadian Olympic Committee.

"The Grand Evening", organized here in Montreal by Octane Racing Group Inc. and produced in its entirety by local craftsmen, has brought together each time in the past three years nearly a thousand guests, including drivers and executives from the Formula 1 World Championship teams.

François Dumontier, Bernie Ecclestone and Sebastian Vettel around the young driver Olivier Mallette. (Photo: WRi2)

Over the years, world champions Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel and Jacques Villeneuve honored guests with their presence. Since 2010, Timo Glock, Nick Heidfeld, Felipe Massa, Nico Rosberg, Jarno Trulli, Jean-Eric Vergne, Mark Webber and other Formula 1 aces have also been seen at the event.

"The Grand Evening" presented in co-operation with Mercedes-Benz Canada, is an official activity of the 2013 F1 Grand Prix du Canada. Tickets for the cocktail at 6 pm, dinner at 7:30 pm and evening are now priced at $1,000 individually. Tables of ten are offered at $10,000. For more information, please visit www.circuitgillesvilleneuve.ca or contact the F1 Grand Prix du Canada administration at 514 350-4731.

Tesla Motors sold more than 4,750 Model S sedans during the first quarter of this year, earning the company a profit and seriously challenging the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan LEAF.

In fact, some sources claim that the Model S might already be outselling these two. We don't know for sure, because Tesla does not disclose monthly sales.

The Volt was by far the best-selling plug-in car last year, with more than 23,000 units.

Tesla also announced that the 40 kWh battery package will no longer be available due to poor sales, leaving only the 60 kWh and 85 kWh options to customers. They are said to offer a range of 375 and 500 kilometres, respectively.

Source: Green Car Reports

We knew that Panther DRR faced some financial issues that threatened its long-term survival, but team officials have now confirmed that it will close its doors after the Indianapolis 500 later this month.

Wednesday, the bad news became official when the team said Oriol Servia would drive in the Sao Paulo Indy 300 and the Indianapolis 500, but there were no plans to race again this season.

Panther DRR's withdrawal, which will have no impact on its partner Panther Racing, will retain a core group of employees at the team's headquarters in Carmel, and retain some options for 2014 as it plans to field at least one car in the Indy 500.

Photo: Panther DRR

Toyota Canada announced that the all-new 2014 4Runner will be available in three trim levels: a well-equipped, value-driven SR5; a top-of-the-line Limited; and a Trail grade for those who want maximum off-road capability.

The 2014 Toyota 4Runner sports a muscular front grille with either colour-keyed inserts (SR5 and Trail) or chrome-plated inserts (Limited). Likewise, the first two trim levels include newly styled 17” wheels, while the more upscale one stands out with black painted 20” wheels.

All 2014 Toyota 4Runners boast a 4.0L V6 engine rated at 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed ECT-i automatic transmission comes into play, while towing capacity amounts to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs).

Inside, you'll find soft-touch door trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a new Optitron instrument panel (SR5), as well as an overhead console which organizes the off-road control switches into one location (Trail). A back-up camera comes standard, while a front and rear clearance sonar system is added on Limited models.

Prices and on-sale date for the 2014 Toyota 4Runner will be announced later.

Photo: Toyota

The new 2014 Jeep Cherokee will soon be available with in-vehicle Qi wireless charging. The factory-installed system, located in the centre console, will be part of the optional Uconnect 8.4 package.

To charge a Qi-compatible device, such as the Samsung Galaxy S4, HTC Droid DNA, or Nokia Lumia 920, users simply place it in the middle console to power up.

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee and Toyota Prius join the rapidly expanding Qi ecosystem of mobile devices, charging accessories, charging locations, and automobiles. The 2013 Toyota Avalon Limited, which includes integrated Qi wireless charging in the centre console, is already in production and for sale.

Summary
There seems to be a consensus among journalists that the Lexus LS 600 hybrid is a veritable mobile 'cocooning' unit on wheels. The obsessive soundproofing and exceptionally quiet ride, which is a by-product of the Lexus independent multi-link suspension, eliminates any feedback, good or bad. A retractable ottoman with shiatsu massage for the front passenger clearly adds to this overall impression. Lexus has certainly made the LS the 'ultimate comfort machine'.

Pros
Outstanding fit and finish, convenient technology, an exceptionally comfortable and quiet ride, and a reputation for building reliable, long-lasting vehicles is what the Lexus brand is all about.

Cons
Limited trunk space (battery space) and overly-assisted slow steering hamper this model, according to the 'Annuel de l'Automobile'.

Photo: Lexus

Price
Base model starts at $131,200.

Fuel Economy
The fuel economy numbers for the Lexus LS hybrid are quite reasonable when you consider that it has a 5.0 litre V8, with corresponding 10.6 L/100 km city and 9.6 L/100 km highway ratings.

New and Improved
A number of esthetic changes were applied in 2013.

Exterior Styling
The Lexus LS front grille has adopted the corporate ‘spindle' shape, and is both taller and ruggedly attractive. The headlights have an angular shape that blends well with the new re-styled LS image. The rear tail lights have been considerably enlarged and are separated by a stylish chrome bezel.

Cargo Capacity
The trunk has a battery-limited 330 litres of storage space, which is 180 litres less than the non-hybrid version.

Drivetrain
The gas-powered V8 delivers 389 hp and 385 lb-ft torque, which climbs to 438 hp when combined with the electric motor.
Hybrid system: Tandem

Safety
Anti-lock braking system with brake assist and electronic stability program.
Lateral collision test score: 5/5
Frontal collision test score: 5/5
Airbags: 8

Comparable Models
Audi A8, Jaguar XJ, Mercedes-Benz S400 H

Photo: Lexus

References :
L'Annuel de l'automobile 2013

Le Guide de l'auto 2013 (www.guideautoweb.com)

From Williams F1 Team

Williams F1 Team announced that it has signed an agreement with Kazakhstani investment business TAK Group that will see the Kazakhstani capital, Astana, promoted as part of the arrangement with the team.

The Astana name will be positioned on the SIS vane and outer nose struts on the Williams-Renault FW35 from the Spanish Grand Prix onwards in a move that will provide both sporting and tourism benefits to the city.

The press release indicates that since 1997 Astana has been the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan and is a UNESCO World City.

Situated on a bank of the Ishim River, it has become one of the largest business centres in the region and will be the site of Expo 2017 which focuses on future technologies and our ‘energy future'. Ambitious infrastructure projects are also seeing the city emerge as one of the region's leading tourist destinations.

Photo: WRi2

Pros and Cons*
Pros
The 2013Volkswagen Touareg is one of the only crossovers to offer a diesel engine. Thanks to an efficient all-wheel drive system, the agile Touareg handles the snow very well. Its roomy and comfortable cabin is also surprisingly ergonomic.

Cons
However, some of its drawbacks include underwhelming contours and overall heaviness. Plus, it remains to be seen how reliable this vehicle turns out to be.

Photo: Volkswagen

Price
The VW 2013 Touareg Comfortline starts at $49,675, with 18-inch alloy wheels, leatherette seating, Bluetooth connectivity and a power liftgate.

The Highline model is available for $55,670 and includes a sunroof, Bi-Xenon headlights and a heatable steering wheel. The Touareg's best-equipped model, the Execline, starts at $59,500 with distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels, Dynaudio digital sound package and rear LED tail lights.

Diesel engines are available on all models, for an extra $4,300.

Fuel economy
With a gas engine, the SUV's fuel economy is rated 12.3 L/100 km for the city and 8.8 L/100 for the highway. The diesel VW 2013 Touareg needs 11.2 L/100 km, city and 6.8 L/100 km, highway.

Exterior Styling
With beefy lines, this sport utility vehicle is a brawny beast, showing off its distinctive grille, now a signature VW moniker.

New in 2013
- The new gas tank holds 100 litres of fuel.
- The TDI model now corrals 240 horses, up from 220 hp.
- There's a power liftgate on all models.
- A range of interior packages are currently offered.

Drivetrain
The VW Touareg is propelled by a 3.6 L V6 engine, packing 280 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. You could also go for the 3.0 TDI V6 turbo clean diesel engine which delivers 240 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque.

Both of these engines are coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission which powers all four wheels.

Cargo Capacity
The VW 2013 Touareg can store between 910 litres and 2008 litres, a marked advantage over SUVs like the X5, SRX, FX and Cayenne.

Safety
This model has 6 airbags as well as many active safety systems.

Comparable Models
Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti FX, Land Rover LR4, Lexus RX, Lincoln MKX, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90

Photo: Volkswagen

*References
Laguë Philippe, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.616
Poirier-Defoy Michel, L'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.578
Lachapelle Marc, Le guide de l'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions de l'Homme, 2012, p.618
www.vw.ca

From GMM

Alex Wurz has entered the world of driver management.

According to Speed Week, the former formula one driver is now part of the management team handling 19-year-old Briton Alex Lynn, who races in the FIA European F3 series.

"He is an exceptional talent," said Austrian Wurz, who most recently was a driver coach at Williams. "I look forward to helping him get to formula one."

Alex Lynn. (Photo: FIA F3 Europe)

Meanwhile, it is reported that Nicolas Todt - the son of FIA president Jean Todt - has also taken a British driver into his management stable.

Nicolas Todt, already managing Felipe Massa, Pastor Maldonado and Jules Bianchi, has signed up 23-year-old GP2 driver James Calado.

"His talent and attitude have made a big impression on me," said Todt. "I hope he is able to compete for the title in GP2 and prove he worthy of formula one."

James Calado races for Todt's own team, ART.

In order for the McLaren P1 to reach its goal of becoming the best driver's car in the world, both on the road and the track, the automaker took it all the way to the Arctic Circle to conduct testing in extreme weather conditions.

This latest stage in the rigorous testing process for the McLaren P1 has been captured in the short film which can be viewed here:



McLaren also confirmed that its supercar will be featured at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this summer.

Using a 903-horsepower engine, the McLaren P1 sprints from 0-100 km/h in less than 3.0 seconds, and 0-200 km/h in under 7.0 seconds. Production will be limited to 375 units.

Eight-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, former DTM driver, Tom Kristensen says he sees in reigning DTM champion Bruno Spengler the main favorite for the 2013 title.

Although he is no longer involved in DTM since 2009 (excepted a one-race deal at Lausitzring in 2011), Tom Kristensen, who raced for six seasons with Audi, his still very interested in the DTM. For the Dane, Bruno Spengler is the man to beat this season again.

Photo: DTM

"To be honnest, Bruno surprised me last year," he said.

"I thought he would not hold the pressure at the end of the season, but he did, and that was very impressive. That's why he is clearly the man to beat in 2013," he added.

Tom Kristensen also added Gary Paffett in his list of potential champions. « He is an experimented driver who already won the title. He is one of my favorites, he is a true racer who has motor racing in his veins, and who knows the job quite well ».

We're not exactly sure what to make of these new Land Rover ads, which can just as easily gross you out as they can ignite the urge to seek out new adventures in exotic locations.

No doubt the creators had the latter scenario in mind, but geez, talk about a bold (and risky) way to make a statement about some of the world's most rugged and fearless 4x4s!

Photo: Y&R, Dubai, UAE

Photo: Y&R, Dubai, UAE

Photo: Y&R, Dubai, UAE

Photo: Y&R, Dubai, UAE

Three-time Formula 1 World Champion, Brazilian Nelson Piquet is expected to demonstrate his 1983 title winning Brabham-BMW BT52 at the Festival of Speed at Goodwood in July.

Piquet has yet to confirm his participation, and will give answer soon.

In 1983, Nelson Piquet became the first driver to clinch the World Championship in a turbocharged car, beating rival Alain Prost in a Renault.

Nelson Piquet, Brabham-BMW, 1983. (Photo: WRI2)

The Brabham has been completely restored and I now owned by BMW. It will be run on different occasions this year as part of BMW's celebrations of the 30th anniversary of Piquet's title.

The BT52 was designed by Gordon Murray and featured a flat bottom and very small sidepods, the consequences of the FIA having banned ground effect and side skirts for 1983.

British magazine Autosport says that the BT52, chassis No. 1, and its turbocharged, 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine have been subject to a ground-up restoration at BMW Classic in Munich, which began last October.

The five-door subcompact is one of the automotive world's most efficient formats. The new-generation of subcompacts add another level to their positive position: subcompacts are no longer penalty boxes. Along with their thriftiness and efficiency, subcompacts now offer the refinement, styling, and features previously reserved for larger automotive formats.

The current-generation Hyundai Accent hatchback debuted for model-year 2012. That model, and the 2013 version we tested here, doesn't really stand out from its competitors in any discernible way. However, that's not saying the 2013 Hyundai Accent hatchback isn't one great little car, just that it's one honour student in a class suddenly filled with top-scoring academics.


Price as tested
Like most 5-doors, the 2013 Hyundai Accent hatchback has a “price leader” version (the $13,749 “L” trim) that nobody really buys mostly because it's unavailable with an automatic transmission and air conditioning. If you want auto and air-con you have to step up to the GL, and hand over $17,099.

Our tester was a top-rung GLS trim 2013 Hyundai Accent with an automatic transmission at $18,949. And don't forget Hyundai's prominent Freight and Destination ding, at $1,495.

All Accents feature a great new engine: the 1.6L Gamma I4 with direction injection, dual continuously variable valve timing, and a maintenance-free timing chain. It pumps out 138 horses and 123 lb-ft of torque. The 6-speed automatic transmission returns virtually the same great fuel efficiency as the 6-speed manual: 7.2 L/100 km city; 5.2L highway; 6.3L combined.

Other equipment highlights include:

• Heated seats andmirrors;
• Automatic temperature control;
• Power sunroof;
• Mirror-mounted turn signals;
• Leather steering wheel;
• Bluetooth;
• 16” alloy wheels.

The 16” wheels are only available on the GLS trim, otherwise you're stuck with the decidedly more down-market 14” steel ones.

The 6-speed automatic transmission returns virtually the same great fuel efficiency as the 6-speed manual: 7.2 L/100 km city; 5.2L highway; 6.3L combined. (Photo: Mike Goetz)

Much to like
There is a lot to like with this 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS hatchback. First and foremost (for me at least), was the styling: it's a version of the “Fluid Sculpture” rendered on the rest of the Hyundai line, but seems to work well on the 2013 Hyundai Accent. Many friends and family members remarked on how sharp-looking this tester was.

The powertrain is very refined offering up smooth shifts and good throttle response. The only caveat would be that it doesn't quite feel like 138 horses and 123 “torques.” Those power outputs are only available at 6,300 rpm and 4,700 rpm, respectively, so that could have something to do with it.

Steering is nicely weighted in the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS, which is a pleasant surprise from the overly assisted feel of many of its competitors.

The ride in the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS is a bit on the firm side and gives the car a secure, planted feel. The Accent doesn't like being thrashed about at the limit, but otherwise it has decent handling with little body roll.

The interior is nicely turned out, with a style you will recognize from the Elantra, Sonata, etc. Seat fabric is comfortable and appears to be very durable.

The seat heaters work quickly and get quite hot, just as we like them.

Another thing about the interior of the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS hatchback: there is a lot of it. The Accent hatchback feels larger than a subcompact, and the numbers reflect that. It has 2,552 litres of passenger volume, and 600 litres of cargo volume, which is much more than the Ford Fiesta, Mazda2 and Toyota Yaris, and only slightly down from the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa.

The rear seats fold forward in a flash to aid versatility (however, the Hyundai Accent hatchback doesn't offer nearly as much space as the Fit, the class athlete in versatility and carry-all ability).

The Accent hatchback feels larger than a subcompact, and the numbers reflect that. It has 2,552 litres of passenger volume, and 600 litres of cargo volume. (Photo: Mike Goetz)

What we liked less
These items fall more into the “quibble” category than “problem” category, but here we go...

The rear-seating area in the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS is somewhat tight, acerbated by seats that are kind of straight-backed and don't offer a recline adjustment.

The rear-suspension uprights narrow the cargo area at the sides in the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS hatchback. It's also a foot or so drop into the cargo area, which makes it difficult to slide in larger items. Also, the rear seats don't fold forward completely flat, and there is industrial-grade plastic back there, as well.

Of note: the driver armrests don't really work, and the general lack of “soft touch” materials of any kind in the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS hatchback cabin is rather disheartening.

Leather seating and navigation are not available on the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS hatchback.

The rear-seating area in the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS is somewhat tight, acerbated by seats that are kind of straight-backed and don't offer a recline adjustment. (Photo: Mike Goetz)

Good to go
Overall, the 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS hatchback is very hard not to like. It looks good, goes well, has great value and offers great efficiency in space and energy use. Like we said off the top: The Hyundai Accent is a good car in a good segment.

From DTM

DTM cars will continue to race on Hankook slick tires until the end of the 2016 season.

DTM rights holder and promoter ITR e.V. and the South Korean company extended their exclusive deal regarding the supply of tires for man additional three years - up to the end of 2016.

The two companies also agreed upon an option for another extension of the agreement.

Since 2011, the DTM cars have been racing on Hankook's 'Ventus Race' tires.

Furthermore, the forthcoming season will bring an innovation as two tire compounds will be used in the races. In addition to the standard tire in the dimensions 300/680 R 18 at the front and 320/710 R 18 at the rear, the new 'Ventus Race Plus' slick in the same dimensions - that can be identified easily due to an individual sidewall design - allows for clearly faster lap times for a defined period of time.

The new option tires will make their first outing at the season opener, held this Sunday at the Hockenheimring Baden-Württemberg, Germany.

Photo: DTM

Roger Penske, owner of Penske Racing, said that the team will take the next step in the appellate process in order to overturn NASCAR sanctions imposed at Texas Motor Speedway in April.

An appeals panel of three members, known as he National Stock Car Racing panel, unanimously upheld fines, point penalties and suspensions issued for unapproved rear housing parts and the manner how they were mounted on the cars of Brad Keselowksi and Joey Logano.

"Obviously, we're disappointed with the outcome,'' Penske said. "We met with the panel for over four or five hours. It was a good process. I feel we have a good case, and as we are allowed to under the NASCAR rules we will appeal to the next level.

"I can't make any [further] comment. It's clear we have a process. That's why I'm better off to wait and see that conclude, and at that point I can make any other personal comments.''

The matter will now go to the final appeal available with John Middlebrook NASCAR's chief appellate officer on Tuesday, May 8th.

The penalties imposed were very harsh.

The original penalties assessed to the No. 2 team were:
• Crew chief (Paul Wolfe): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;
• Car chief Jerry Kelley, team engineer Brian Wilson and team manager Travis Geisler (serves as team manager for both the No. 2 and No. 22 cars): Suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;
• Car owner Roger Penske: Loss of 25 championship owner points;
• Driver Brad Keselowski: Loss of 25 championship driver points.

Photo: NASCAR

The original penalties assessed to the No. 22 team were: 
• Crew chief (Todd Gordon): $100,000 fine; suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;
• Car chief Raymond Fox and team engineer Samuel Stanley: Suspended from NASCAR until the completion of the next six NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship points events; placed on NASCAR probation until Dec. 31;
• Car owner Walt Czarnecki: Loss of 25 championship owner points;
• Driver Joey Logano: Loss of 25 championship driver points.

Photo: NASCAR

While most appeals to the first level of NASCAR are denied Middlebrook has been known to lessen the severity of the penalties in the past.

For example, last year, Middlebrook overturned a similar six-race suspension for Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Chad Knaus and returned the 25 points taken from five-time champion Jimmie Johnson for what NASCAR deemed an illegal C-post (where the roof is attached to the main body of the car at the rear turn) prior to the Daytona 500. He did not rescind the $100,000 fine against Knaus.

"All I can say about the process is it's fair and equitable,'' Penske said. "We had the opportunity to explain our case and situations in detail."

From GMM

Pat Symonds has admitted Marussia's loss of Concorde Agreement revenue "really hurts".

F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone announced recently that, from now on, only the top ten finishers in the constructors' world championship will share the sport's commercial income.

Previously, under a scheme devised by former FIA president Max Mosley, the three newest teams Caterham, Marussia and now-defunct HRT received $10 million per year irrespective of their results.

But Ecclestone told Reuters the new arrangement is "a bit more incentive" for Marussia to "get going and get into the top ten.

"It's a bit like the football where you can go up and down," he added.

Marussia and Caterham will fight more than ever for the tenth position. (Photo: WRi2)

Just prior to Ecclestone's announcement, Marussia technical chief Symonds said the Banbury-based team is not the only one "worried" about F1's financial situation.

He said Mosley's $10 million per year was "a significant part of our budget".

"And when you take away things like that, it really hurts," Symonds told Sky Sports.

But the situation for Marussia could be even more dire than that, with sporting director Graeme Lowdon hinting to the Press Association that Ecclestone is freezing the team out completely -- even if it does manage to finish in the top ten.

"We can confirm we've not had any offer from CVC at all. At no time have we had any proposal," he said.

Universal Pictures has released a second official trailer of the new Ron Howard movie, "Rush", expected to hit the screens around the world in September 2013.

This movie about Formula 1 is a re-creation of the merciless 1976 rivalry between the exuberant James Hunt, driving for McLaren, and the calm and calculated Niki Lauda, Ferrari's top driver.

The epic action-drama stars Chris Hemsworth as the fascinating Englishman James Hunt and Daniel Brühl as the meticulous Austrian Niki Lauda, whose clashes on the Grand Prix racetrack epitomized the contrast between these two extraordinary characters, a distinction reflected in their private lives.

From GMM

Former F1 driver Jacques Laffite has played down reports Magny Cours is still in the running for a return to the F1 calendar.

Recently, Alain Prost - who was involved in the efforts to revive the French grand prix for 2013 - said he thinks there could now be "possible openings" on the 2014 calendar.

But also involved in those efforts was Laffite, another former F1 winner from France.

He told Le Journal du Centre newspaper: "I doubt formula one will return to Magny Cours. If the regional authorities have no such desire, it is not possible to organise the grand prix."

Laffite said the decision to abandon efforts to return the grand prix to France is wrong.

"It can be compared to Canada; when the race was not held for a year, Montreal lost 92 million dollars," he claimed. "Formula one is a very profitable sporting event."

Photo: Circuit de Magny-Cours

A Michigan couple found guilty of stealing General Motors trade secrets related to hybrid-car technology was sentenced to jail in federal court in Detroit.