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Daimler is likely to cut its 2013 profit outlook when it reports first-quarter earnings later this month amid weak demand, especially in Europe. "Not much tailwind is anticipated from the markets in the coming months.

Daimler is likely to cut its 2013 profit outlook when it reports first-quarter earnings later this month amid weak demand, especially in Europe. "Not much tailwind is anticipated from the markets in the coming months.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) considers Maruti Suzuki India's deals with its parts suppliers anti-competitive. The commission believes Maruti Suzuki was abusing its dominance in the market by restricting the supply of spare parts and charging a high premium on them.

The boss of PSA/Peugeot-Citroen's namesake brand says he's already seeing benefits from efforts to move upmarket, which the automaker considers crucial to returning to profit.

From GMM

Circuit de Catalunya chief Salvador Servia has played down reports Barcelona could annually alternate the Spanish grand prix with Valencia.

With Valencia missing from the schedule this year for the first time in several years, it emerged recently that a return for the European grand prix venue was unlikely because it appeared city officials had left the street circuit in a state of disrepair.

But the port city's president Alberto Fabra said a month ago that he met with Bernie Ecclestone in London in late February, and agreed a deal to share with Barcelona in the future.

"The agreement is (now) awaiting the signature of the Catalan president Artur Mas," wrote El Mundo journalist Pedro Blasco at the time.

Circuit de Catalunya's Servia, however, played down the story.

"I've read a lot about it," Servia, whose son Oriol Servia is an Indycar driver, told France's Fan-F1 website.

"But for our part, we have never talked about alternating races between Barcelona and Valencia," he insisted.

From GMM

At Sepang, behind the warring Red Bulls, Mercedes duo Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton were also the subject of a team orders controversy.

Arguing that the silver cars needed to save fuel to the finish line, the faster Rosberg was ordered by boss Ross Brawn to settle for fourth place behind his teammate, triggering reports that Briton Hamilton is the 'number 1'.

The saga also intensified rumours that Brawn is at odds with the team's new German-speaking faction led by shareholders Toto Wolff and Niki Lauda.

"We need to talk to Ross," said Lauda after the race, "if this is the strategy to be used from now on."

Nico Rosberg was also obviously unhappy, telling Brawn on the radio after crossing the chequered flag to "Remember this one".

But he insists now that it's all over.

Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. (Photo: WRi2)

"Malaysia was sobering for me in every respect," he told DPA news agency, "but it is now checked off. We have thoroughly discussed and clarified it internally."

"Besides, I've learned over the years to quickly set aside any setbacks. This is a help in sports, because there are always setbacks," Nico Rosberg added.

Indeed, Rosberg might now be on an upward curve, having looked the quicker Mercedes driver in the Sepang race, and now heading to China, the scene of his 2012 win.

Actually, the 27-year-old is somewhat of a 'Shanghai specialist', having led almost 50 per cent of all the laps raced in China in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

But Toto Wolff warns: "Yesterday's home runs don't win today's games, and that's definitely true for us."

Still, Rosberg is confident as he heads to Shanghai, obviously one of his favourite layouts.

"It's hard to explain (why)," he said, "but there are many unique curves, which I find amazing. But what I like most are the memories of this track. We worked very hard over the winter. We actually managed to close the gap to our rivals in Malaysia and were not so inferior to Red Bull. Now we have to keep at it."

Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. has completely redesigned its website so as to lead the industry in both design and functionality.

Enhancements include a full 360-degree view of each model in every available colour (inside and out), a Canadian Black Book trade-in value estimator, and a dedicated look-and-feel for the company's Equus full-size luxury sedan.

“With Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy now found across our vehicle line-up, we felt it was time to ramp up the visual impact of our Canadian website to match the cars and trucks in dealer showrooms,” said Steve Kelleher, President and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. “Not only that, we've enhanced and expanded the site's content as well. Our vehicle comparison tool, for example, helps shoppers evaluate the differences between a Hyundai vehicle and any other model on the market. Of course, it will also highlight the advantages our products have over the competition.”

From GMM

Dr Helmut Marko insists pre-season comments he made about Mark Webber were never supposed to be interpreted as criticism of the Australian driver.

Austrian Marko, seen by most as team owner Dietrich Mateschitz's right hand man, said before the 2013 championship kicked off that Webber "can't maintain form" throughout an entire F1 campaign and "has a little trouble with the pressure".

Mark Webber hit back by saying it is obvious he is not "part of Marko's agenda".

Marko's apparent criticism might have gained new significance in the wake of the recent 'Multi-21' affair, where despite the fact Sebastian Vettel ignored team orders in Malaysia, it is Webber's place alongside him that appears most in doubt.

But Helmut Marko is quoted by Spain's El Confidential as insisting all the fuss about his pre-season Webber comments was exaggerated.

Mark Webber and Helmut Marko. (Photo: WRi2)

"First, the interview was conducted in German," he said, "it just happened to be Christmas, and so it was translated into other languages. I was asked why Vettel is champion and not Mark, so I tried to explain the differences with some facts. I did not think it would be taken as a criticism of Mark," he insisted.

Marko continued: "Mark has always been a driver with a good reputation, and I have always said of him that when he has a good car, he is a winner. But when he has a good car, unfortunately for him so too does Vettel. So, psychologically, it must be very hard for him."

"In the circumstances," Marko insisted, "the magazine tried to say that I was against Mark."

Dr Helmut Marko made the comments about Mark Webber in an interview with Red Bull's in-house magazine, Red Bulletin.

Price Range: $29,500 and up

Description: Selection, fuel-efficiency, cheeky styling and tremendous fun-to-drive factor combine in the MINI Cooper Convertible for 2013 -- along with a healthy dose of British motoring refinement.

Offering numerous drop-top models, trim grades and custom accessories, the MINI brand is popular with shoppers after affordable access to a convertible they can truly call their own.

Whether you choose the standard MINI Cooper Convertible, the sporty Cooper S Convertible, the track-ready John Cooper Works model or the luxurious Highgate Convertible, MINI has you covered when it comes to top-down motoring pleasure.


Drivetrain: All MINI Cooper Convertible models are 4-cylinder powered and front-wheel drive. Standard models get a 1.6L unit with 121 horsepower, and a 6-speed manual transmission. Cooper S Convertible models get a turbocharged variant of this engine, which bumps power output to 181 horsepower. The motorsports-validated John Cooper Works model features several powertrain upgrades that bump output to 208 horses enabling a 0-100 km/h time of just 6.5 seconds.

Direct-injection technology and the MINI line's inherently lightweight construction contribute to exceptional fuel mileage figures, too.

Consider it if: you're after something sporty, entertaining, compact, city-friendly, and ready for up to four people. Many folks shop a MINI Convertible as a roomier alternative to something like a Mazda MX-5. Also, consider a MINI Convertible if you're after a ride you can truly individualize. The model is backed by a slew of accessories, visual add-ons, interior add-ons, and performance parts. Wheels, tires, stripes, and unique colour combinations are available, too.

Skip it if: you'd rather a rear-drive machine, or if a maximum of 208 horsepower doesn't cut it for your discerning car-buff tastes.

Other Notes: Available feature content includes navigation, heated leather, Bluetooth, driver-selectable mood lighting, a full driver computer, remote access, and plenty more.

A full suite of safety systems is also included on every model, making the Cooper Convertible as safe as it is engaging. In particular, available xenon headlights can steer into corners, maximizing nighttime visibility. A rollover protection bar springs up to protect occupants in an emergency in just 150 milliseconds. A dynamic brake light, additionally, activates a “strobe” effect under hard braking to warn drivers behind the MINI Cooper Convertible to back off.

Don't Miss: The Highgate. Named after a stylish residential district in North London, this MINI Cooper S Convertible variant is aimed squarely at the shopper who wants extravagant luxury in a fun-in-the-sun package. Special badges inside and outside of the model set it apart, as does a unique paint colour scheme that includes brown, black and blue hood stripes. Dark Truffle leather inside creates a deliciously inviting atmosphere, and “Highgate” labeled doorsills welcome occupants on board. Finally, the soft-top lid is finished in a rich “Silvertouched Brown” shade to cap it all off.

Photo: MINI

From GMM

A cloud of uncertainty has moved above October's scheduled running of the Korean grand prix.

The tension between South Korea, home of F1's fourteenth round of the 2013 championship, and the rogue North has been escalating at an alarming rate in the past hours.

Most alarming is the rhetoric.

North Korean media quoted a regime spokesman as saying: "The situation on the Korean peninsula is inching close to a thermonuclear war due to the evermore undisguised hostile actions of the United States and the South Korean puppet warmongers".

And a bulletin on state-run North Korean television reportedly warned of an "all-out war, a merciless, sacred, retaliatory war".

"(North Korea) does not want to see foreigners in South Korea fall victim to the war," the bulletin reportedly continued, warning that "all foreigners, including tourists (should) take measures for shelter and evacuation".

Western foreign affair analysts, however, insist the threat of war is actually low, while the US embassy said that "despite current political tension", there is "no specific information to suggest there are imminent threats" to peace.

Moreover, there have been no reports that suggest the huge North Korean army has been briefed for a major war.

"The (US) embassy has not changed its security posture and we have not recommended that US citizens who reside in, or plan to visit, the republic of Korea take special security precautions at this time," it added.

The latest reports, however, say spy satellites have identified two North Korean nuclear-capable missiles that are ready for launch, and that the US is deploying a missile defence system to Guam.

Japan is also on the alert, with missile interceptors moved to key locations around Tokyo.

The border to China has been closed and tourists are being turned back, with a border official confirming the "North Korean government is now asking foreign people to leave".

United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-Moon warned that if the "very dangerous" situation is not handled correctly, it could become "uncontrollable".

Highlights*
Compared with the regular Lancer, the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart boasts sportier looks, a more powerful turbocharged engine, and higher-grade components.

Lowlights*
If you like manual gearboxes, you'll be disappointed. This model comes exclusively with a 6-speed, twin-clutch transmission, although paddle shifters are included for quick, manual shift capability. Moreover, there's no height adjustment on the driver's seat, and the engine burns quite a bit of fuel. Finally, the firmer suspension affects ride quality.


Pricing
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart offers a single trim level, and it starts at $31,798. 

Fuel consumption
As mentioned, fuel consumption ratings for the Ralliart are not as decent as the standard Lancer's. Expect 11.9/7.9/10.1L/100km (city/highway/combined). 

Styling
Closely resembling the top-of-the-line Lancer Evolution, the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart's front grille is not nearly as intimidating. However, the specific bumpers, functional hood scoops, 18” alloy wheels, rear wing spoiler, and dual exhaust tips beautifully convey its sporty nature. The standard halogen headlights can be replaced with high-intensity discharge (HID) xenon headlights for improved visibility.

Cargo capacity
The trunk can hold up to 283 litres of cargo.  

Powertrain
Under the aluminum hood of the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is a 2.0L, turbocharged 4-cylinder MIVEC engine. A healthy 253 lb-ft of torque backs its 237 horsepower. Beyond the aforementioned twin-clutch transmission, the powertrain also includes the brand's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system. 

Safety
To keep everyone safe and on the right track, drivers benefit from stability and traction control, ventilated front and solid rear brakes with ABS, as well as brake assist. Should the inevitable happen, seven airbags will protect occupants, including a knee airbag for the driver.  

Other notable features
An active centre and limited-slip rear differential improve the Ralliart's handling whatever the conditions. There's also a sport-tuned suspension with a front strut tower brace and stabilizer bars at both ends. Inside, leather-wrapped Recaro sport seats are available.

Warranty
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart carries a 3-year/60,000-km comprehensive limited warranty, a 5-year/100,000-km powertrain warranty, plus five years of roadside assistance. 

Competitors
Honda Civic Si, Subaru WRX, Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Photo: Mitsubishi

* Based on expert reviews.
Poirier-Defoy Michel, L'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.441

Rahal Letterman Lanigan will have a third entry for the upcoming Indianapolis 500 although the driver has not been announced.

RLL will be the fourth team to add a car for the May classic following AJ Foyt Racing (Conor Daly), Andretti Autosport (Carlos Munoz) and Chip Ganassi Racing (Ryan Briscoe).

Of course, regular drivers Graham Rahal and James Jakes will be on hand but RLL will reveal the identity of its third driver later on.

We know that Briton Mike Conway will be behind the wheel of RLL's third car in Long Beach but Conway has already confirmed that he will not compete on an oval course again.

Rumours say that this mysterious driver will be Mexican Michel Jourdain.

Photo: IndyCar

As the only part of your vehicle that touches the ground, your wheels must be perfectly aligned to ensure optimum safety on the road, not to mention reduced tire wear and improved fuel economy. Hitting big potholes and bumps is a major cause of improper wheel alignment.

When driving in a straight line, let go of the steering wheel to check how the vehicle reacts. Odd steering behaviour (including vibrations and a steering wheel that seems to have a mind of its own) is a definite sign that your front wheels need an inspection and possibly a realignment. Uneven tread wear is often a good indicator, as well.

By definition, “wheel alignment” involves three main measurements: toe, camber, and caster.

Toe

• Toe is a measurement of how much the front and/or rear wheels are turned in or out when sitting in a straight-ahead position. When the wheels turn in, toe is positive. When the wheels turn out, toe is negative. The purpose of toe is to ensure that the wheels roll parallel.
• Improper toe adjustment results in premature tread wear and causes steering instability (lateral pull) when accelerating or braking. After a while, it can also damage a suspension's pivot points.
• Each car has precise toe specifications (determined by the manufacturer) for optimum wheel alignment. In order to correct toe, a mechanic will adjust the rack-and-pinion steering's inner tie rod up front, and either a specific control link or cam system in the back.

Camber

• Camber is the tilting of the wheels from the vertical axis when viewed from the front. If the wheel tilts outward at the top, camber is positive. If the bottom of the wheel is farther out than the top, camber is negative.
• The camber angle defines the handling dynamics of a particular suspension design; more specifically, negative camber improves grip when cornering. Unequal side-to-side camber of 1 degree or more will cause the vehicle to pull or lean to the side with the most positive camber. Meanwhile, the tires will wear unevenly.
• Front and rear camber can be adjusted via a control arm or cam system, but only on cars with a double-wishbone suspension (it is always fixed with MacPherson struts).

Caster

• Caster is the tilting of the uppermost point of the steering axis either forward or backward (when viewed from the side of the vehicle). A backward tilt is positive, and a forward tilt is negative. Altering the caster angle changes the vehicle's wheelbase and ride height.
• When a front suspension is aligned, caster is adjusted to achieve the self-centring action of steering, which affects the car's straight-line stability. If the steering wheel takes longer to return to its on-centre position, there's a problem.
• Once again, front and rear caster can be adjusted via a control arm or cam system.

Geometry

• Problems also arise when the front wheels (or axle) are not aligned with the rear wheels (or axle), causing the vehicle to wander to one particular side. This is often referred to as improper geometry.
• In all cases, repair shops use camera-based systems on each wheel to monitor their action and provide data to a computer to properly align the wheels and settings.

Things are not looking good for Fisker Automotive, which laid off 75% of its employees last week. Sources are now telling Reuters that attorneys for the struggling automaker have drawn up bankruptcy documents and are ready to file them as early as Friday.

Fisker reportedly has about $30 million in cash left and is scheduled to reimburse the first $10 million of the $200 million loan it once received from the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) on April 22nd.

Doomed by the delayed launch of the Karma plug-in hybrid sedan, a number of recalls following an incident where a Karma caught fire, interrupted production, and the recent bankruptcy of its battery supplier (A123 Systems), Fisker is now being pressured by the DoE to give the money back.

There's still a chance that an investor will buy Fisker, but every passing day reduces the likelihood of that scenario.

Source: Reuters

Photo: Fisker

Awakening something within
What can I say after a week behind the wheel of a 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S except: Do want. I could leave it at that. Enough said. You get the point.

But I won't. Even after 50 years, Porsche still has what it takes (and then some), and the latest 991 Carrera 4S is a stunning example of the engineering and design feats that have emerged, and continue to emerge, from Stuttgart.

Truly a phenomenal car to pilot, the 911 touches something visceral deep within anyone who dares step inside. After seven straight days of aural intercourse from the quad tailpipes, caresses from the 18-way adjustable sport seats and playtime with the 7-speed manual transmission (yes, manual) I nearly shed a tear when the affair ended and I had to give back the key.


What is a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S?
Besides being one of the sexiest, most perfectly proportioned vehicles on the road today, the 911 is Porsche's flagship vehicle. Allow me to explain the naming of the Carrera 4S.

The “4” means this pretty little Porker offers all-wheel drive when the conditions demand it (but remains blissfully rear-wheel bias, otherwise). The lovely little “S” means you get a 50 horsepower jump over the base Carrera 4 model.

What is the 911 Carerra 4S? It's history on four wheels; an escape; a track-ready beast that can hit 100 km/hr in 4.5 seconds; it's an auditory orgasm that'll leave you wanting more, and more (and it'll always give); it's functional; it's a Porsche.

Besides being one of the sexiest, most perfectly proportioned vehicles on the road today, the 911 is Porsche's flagship vehicle. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Technicalities
The 2013 Porsche 911 Carerra 4S houses an ever-potent 3.8L flat-6 that pushes out an even 400 horsepower. Harmoniously joined to Porsche's 7-speed manual transmission or their uber impressive dual-clutch PDK autobox, the power is fantastic.

Thanks to the fancy “4” on the beefy rear, this Carrera also equipped with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) that monitors all four wheels to determine where power and traction is needed. The sensual “S” means Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) to increase dynamic performance is standard. Fantastic.

The 2013 Porsche Carrera 4S is pricey, however, starting at $120,500 (rising to $125,160 for the PDK). With a few extras, my tester was knocking on $140k.

The 2013 Porsche 911 Carerra 4S houses an ever-potent 3.8L flat-6 that pushes out an even 400 horsepower. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Driving the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
If I close my eyes, I can still feel the chrome shifter in my eager right hand, still feel my left foot depressing the clutch, my right foot unleashing an angry bark from the rear as I push it to the floor, the revs climb and the power surges throwing me back into the body-contoured Adaptive Sport Seat Plus driver's seat... while my son giggles in the back.

The 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S can be as savage, or as timid, as you want it to be. Balls-out fun on a Friday night? Check. Bringing the kid to day care first thing Monday morning? Yup, it can do that, too. And that's what makes driving it so phenomenal.

Let me touch, on the 7-speed manual transmission. Truthfully, I could go on for pages about it, it's that good. The gates before me beckoned me to shift constantly. Cruising on the highway at 110-115 km/hr sees revs below 3,000. No wonder Porsche claims a combined fuel rating of 9.6L/100km.

Of note, and new for Porsche, is a synchro rev-match system immediately activated with Sport Plus to ensure flawless downshifts every time. While a cool feature indeed, should you wish to prove your heel-toe prowess, simply deactivate the system by pressing (and holding) the Porsche Traction Management button.

Driving the 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S brings about a sense of elation, freedom and joy. Handling is sublime, throttle response intoxicating, and braking superb. Few cars can bring that out on a daily basis, but this one did.

Let me touch, on the 7-speed manual transmission. Truthfully, I could go on for pages about it, it's that good. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Inside and out of the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
If any car could be compared to a woman, it should always be a Porsche. Curvaceous in all the right places, the 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S has, quite possibly, the most recognizable silhouette in the automotive industry. Sitting atop 20” Carrera Classic wheels with red calipers nestled within, my Racing Yellow Carrera 4S was a stunner.

The larger footprint (46 mm front and 52mm rear wider tracks than previous) grows an extra 44mm in the rear on the 4. Modern touches, such as LED lights up front and in the taillights, ensure the 911 is as current as can be, while managing to retain an air of the past at all times.

Inside, the 2013 Porsche Carrera 4S is snug, but in a good way. A traditional five-pod gauge greats the driver, and while I much prefer a naked steering wheel, the 4S buttons are at least useful. All important buttons (i.e., Sport Plus, traction control, sport exhaust) are housed below the gear lever.

Perhaps the most interesting fact about the interior of the 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is that it comes with the LATCH system in the back seats. This means you can attach a non-Porsche Design baby seat back there. As long as it's small enough (as mine was) you can properly, and safely, attach a rear- or forward-facing baby seat. Family car? You betcha.

A traditional five-pod gauge greats the driver, and while I much prefer a naked steering wheel, the 4S buttons are at least useful. (Photo: Sébastien D'Amour)

Comparing the Porsche 911 Carerra 4S
It plays alongside the likes of the Jaguar XKR, Bentley Continental GT and the brand new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray; that's a lot of win to choose from. So, how to pick the best?

It comes down to one thing: Knowing what you are. The 911 is purpose-built, and if you buy one you know why you're dishing out the dollars. No one will question your decision.

LMP2 champion last year, the team Starworks announced it will not take part to the World Endurance Championship, and the Le Mans 24 Hours, this season.

The Florida-based team, which is also involved in the Grand Am serie for years, clinched the LMP2 title for the first season of the World Endurance Championship, taking victory at Sebring 12 Hours, Le Mans 24 Hours, and Sao Paulo 6 Hours with its HPD-ARX 03b LMP2 prototype.

Photo: Starworks

Starworks team owner Peter Baron explains: "Quite simply, the funds for the team to participate in the prestigious series did not materialize in time. We counted on this program happening and passed on a few less attractive programs. We only want to participate in a series if we can compete for wins and the title. We had numerous partners and situations where we could get there, but in the end it was timing that let us down."

"We still anticipate getting the sponsor funds however, so it is not all bad news," Peter Baron added. "We have agreements in place; it's really a corporate timing function. Once funds start to arrive we are going to start preparing for the 2014 WEC competition. Our plans would be to spool up and get a few 2013 ALMS races under our belt, and possibly the USA round of the WEC at COTA this year, and be as prepared as we can for next season to avoid this situation happening again - ever."

This withdrawal means Morand Racing is now promoted among the Le Mans 24 Hours entrants. The Swiss team will be already on track this week-end at Silverstone for the WEC opening round with Morgan LMP2 prototype driven by Natacha Gachnang and Franck Mailleux.

From GMM

In the wake of the 'Multi-21' affair, Red Bull has abolished team orders.

"There will be no more team orders by us," the energy drink company's motor sport director Dr Helmut Marko told Germany's Sport Bild on Wednesday.

Sebastian Vettel ignored the team's instruction to stay behind leader Mark Webber in Malaysia recently, sparking the controversy.

The saga left team owner Dietrich Mateschitz "very unhappy", Marko admitted.

Austrian Marko also echoed billionaire Mateschitz's recent claim that Kimi Raikkonen is a candidate to drive for the reigning champions next year.

"Kimi Raikkonen is someone who is on our list (of candidates) for next year," confirmed Marko.

36-year-old Australian Webber's current contract runs out at the end of 2013.

He has been linked with a move to Porsche's 2014 Le Mans prototype project.

Photo: Red Bull Racing

From GMM

Less than a month ago, the FIA's low-profile president Jean Todt seemed to race away from the issue of cost cutting in formula one.

Many teams on the grid are pleading for the governing body to intervene, citing the unenforceability of the gentleman's 'resource restriction agreement' and arguing that the measures should go further.

"It's not something we all have to agree together," Todt said last month. "We are the regulator. If they don't want to reduce costs, that's it. It's not our responsibility to do things that teams do not want."

On this score, Todt - once the boss of the F1 superpower Ferrari - is apparently backed by the sport's modern big-hitter Red Bull, whose Christian Horner said this week that he would like to see even the current resource agreement torn up.

But Todt insisted: "I have never heard anyone say they are against a reduction in the costs.

"I'm sure that if we make reasonable suggestions, everyone can be happy," the Frenchman is quoted by the German-language Spox.

"We do need to reduce costs in order to keep everyone on board," Todt continued. "It is important to find a compromise; the FIA has to come to an agreement with the owners of the commercial rights, and the teams."

Pastor Maldonado, Williams. (Photo: WRi2)

Jean Todt spoke of a 30 per cent overall cost reduction as being a reasonable target, expressing alarm at the growing rate of so-called 'pay drivers' on the grid.

"It is not normal that half of the drivers need to pay," he said. "Formula one is the pinnacle of motor sport and so I think it's not right that drivers need to raise so much money just so they can be there."

From GMM

Nico Hulkenberg has admitted he is enjoying his status as the most experienced driver at Sauber this year.

It is a new experience for the 25-year-old, who although now a very familiar face in the paddock, is actually contesting only his third full season of F1 in 2013.

He made his debut at Williams in 2010, but had to sit out 2011 as Force India's reserve, before stepping back into the race cockpit last season.

The German has now switched to Sauber, where he is the de-facto team leader due to teammate Esteban Gutierrez's rookie status.

Photo: Sauber F1 Team

"I think your question can not be easily answered, because my situations have been so fundamentally different," Hulkenberg said in an interview with his sponsor Dekra.

He insists it is too easy to say his status has now come full circle, having once been the rookie at Williams, and now showing the way for Mexican Gutierrez.

"When I was a rookie (at Williams), Rubens (Barrichello) was the most experienced formula one driver, with 18 years (in F1) under his belt. Now I have two years of experience, so the difference between me and Esteban is not as big as it was between me and Rubens. But I do think I prefer the current situation, because I've been in the sport longer and I do have some experience, which is a big help in this sport."

Hulkenberg's situation does come with arguably extra pressure, though, because he is perhaps expected to beat his inexperienced teammate.

"Absolutely it's expected of me that I beat my teammate," he agreed. "But it's also wrong to underestimate Esteban. He is incredibly fast and I can still learn things from him. Otherwise, not much has changed for me compared to 2010 or 2012 -- you always try to beat your teammate, no matter how experienced or inexperienced you are."