Auto News 5

A Google Street View vehicle was shown driving at 69 km/h on a 50km/h road while mapping the area of Reykjadalur, Iceland, last fall.

Google probably did not receive a ticket for speeding, but the driver certainly can't deny the offence.

Source : icelandreview.com

Photo: Google Street View

As we stand weeks away from the maiden Grand Prix of the 2014 Formula 1 season to be held on March 16th, Down Under, one must start to wonder how many cars will make it to the finish after 300km of hard racing

The first tests of the new, highly complex turbo-hybrid cars turned out to be problematic for certain teams, and were plainly disastrous for others.

Not only are these Power Units -- as they are called -- lacking in overall reliability, but the energy recovery systems (ERS) still don't quite operate flawlessly.

In Melbourne, the drivers will also have to juggle with fuel consumption data during the actual race. No one will want to run out of fuel near the end of the race!

The F1 Grand Prix with the highest percentage of retirements:
Monaco 1996, 85.7% of the cars retired; that's 18 of the 21 starters.

Olivier Panis, Ligier, Monaco 1996 (Photo: WRI2)

The F1 Grand Prix with the highest number of retirements:
Monaco 1996, again. Just three cars crossed the finish line -- the winner, Olivier Panis (Ligier), followed by David Coulthard (McLaren) and Johnny Herbert (Sauber). Heinz-Harald Frentzen was in the pit lane when the chequered flag was waved.

In Monaco 1982, only five cars crossed the finish line, but not in the right order!

Riccardo Patrese (who turned out to be the surprise winner), Nigel Mansell (4th), Elio de Angelis (5th), Brian Henton (8th), and Marc Surer (9th) made it to the finish of this most difficult race.

From GMM

Mark Webber expects his replacement at Red Bull, countryman Daniel Ricciardo, to put up a competitive defense alongside Sebastian Vettel this year.

By the end of the tense Webber-Vettel pairing, the duo were barely on speaking terms while Vettel was at the top of his game, winning a fourth consecutive championship in dominant style.

Australian Webber, who has switched to Le Mans with Porsche, managed to outqualify Vettel only twice in 2013, but the 37-year-old thinks Ricciardo will put up a stout effort this season.

Daniel Ricciardo and Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull. (Photo: WRi2)

"He'll go well," Webber told the March issue of Motor Sport magazine. "I think he'll give Seb a real hard time in qualifying -- it'll be 50:50 in the first year, I reckon."

He suggested that the bulk of Vettel's advantage under the former regulations, his superiority in slow corners, was due to Adrian Newey's famous 'blown floor' cars.

"I took a few off Seb last year -- and the blown floor is gone now," said Mark Webber. "I think Daniel will be fine, and it certainly won't hurt him that he's come through the Red Bull system. I just hope he gets better starts than I did!"

From GMM

Former F1 figures Paul di Resta and Anthony Hamilton have settled their legal dispute, following a bitter court battle in London late last year.

Hamilton, the father of the Mercedes driver, had sued his former client for breach of contract.

"I am very sorry that Paul and I fell out to the extent we did, and I am pleased to put this matter to bed," Hamilton was quoted by British newspapers.

Hamilton also said it is a "real shame" Scot di Resta, who has returned to the German touring car series DTM after a three-year stint with Force India, lost his F1 seat.

"This has been a difficult year and I am just pleased to put it behind me and to concentrate on my racing," di Resta commented.

Anthony Hamilton and Paul di Resta. (Photo: WRi2)

From press release

Brighton Speedway launched its thrilling 2014 weekly racing schedule in association with the 8th annual Canadian Motorsports Expo (CME).

Racing will begin every Saturday night at 7:00 pm in 2014, with spectator gates opening at 5:30 pm so fans can grab their favourite spot on the front straightaway before the drop of the green flag.

Weekly stock car action will once again feature five divisions in 2014. The Vanderlaan Building Supplies UMP DIRTcar Pro Late Models return as the track's top division. The OilGARD Anti-Rust Canadian Modifieds, Brighton Automotive Pro Stocks, Bill's Johns Comp 4's, and Quinte Septic Stingers will be regulars at the 1/3-mile clay oval as well.

Monster Energy and Kellogg Canada opening night kicks off on May 3, beginning with the Parade of Champions through downtown Brighton at 3:00 pm. Champions No. 57 Charlie Sandercock, No. 33 Ryan Scott, No. 72 Doug Anderson, No. 43 Tom Vance, and No. 19 Del MacGregor will all drive down the city streets in their respective racecars. Admission to the season opening race is just $2 with the donation of a non-perishable food item to contribute the Brighton Fare Share Food Bank.

The always-popular Workman's OK Tire School Bus races will take place on June 7. The Gord's Water Vantastics will take to the dirt on June 29, July 26, and Aug. 22.

June 29 will see the TUSA Canada East Mod Lites come to town for their only stop in 2014. The Eastern Ontario Vintage Stock Car Club will compete twice at Brighton this year on June 21 and July 26.

The Ultramar CST Labour Day Classic Weekend will once again be one of the track's premier events. The Southern Ontario Sprints will make six visits to Brighton in 2014, including a pair of races on Labour Day weekend. Each of Brighton's regular divisions is on tap throughout the weekend as well. The SOS will make their 2014 debut at Brighton on May 17.

The Danny Reid Memorial and the 4th annual 50-lap McDougall Insurance & Financial $5000-to-win Great Crate Race will run on Sept. 6 and feature the best Pro Late Model drivers in the North East.

The track will close out its racing season once again with the Cool 100 Applefest Shootout Weekend on September 19 & 20. Friday night features the Lucas Oil, Coca-Cola Mr. DIRT Sportsman 25-lap main event and the Vintage Car Series. Saturday's main event will shine the spotlight on the stars of the DIRTcar 358-Modified series in the Imagefactor.ca Mr. DIRT 100-lap feature.

The final event of the year at the speedway will be the Eve of Destruction on Sunday, Sept. 28.

For more information on this year's schedule of events, visit www.brightonspeedway.com or call 1(866) 681-1102.

Reports indicate that Mitsubishi is working on an advanced head-up display system that can predict a driver's needs by factoring in various data such as speed, location, fuel level, and road conditions.

The 17.2'' display will present drivers with the likeliest options for any given situation, based on four main themes: communication (phone), navigation, multimedia, and climate control. If another option is desired, the system can display it in less than 15 seconds, Mitsubishi claims.

This isn't unprecedented, mind you. Back in January, at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Mercedes-Benz introduced a navigation system that can predict a driver's destination with 80% accuracy, anticipate their route, and suggest possible alternatives.

Source : techno-car.fr

From press release

With car counts that fluctuated between the upper teens and lower twenties, the Ontario Modifieds Racing Series treated fans to some exciting side-by-side action during their tenure at Mosport/Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Speedway.

When that venue ceased operation midway through the 2013 campaign, the club travelled to Peterborough Speedway for a one race showdown to determine the championship.

Although he was leading the standings heading into the final event, Dwight Brown punctuated his points position with a daring three-wide pass, in the third turn of the 'A' main's final lap to claim the crown.

It was the second consecutive title for the soft-spoken veteran speedster from Beeton, Ontario - but also signified what many thought could be the end of the line for the popular tour. Despite having a number of drivers ready to run for the next season, OMRS was a series without a home. That's when Bill Pickford, Randy Hollingsworth and Rick Warnes - the three drivers responsible for keeping the drive alive - went to work.

"The first order of business was confirming a point's fund," said the group. "Techtonix Construction Corporation had been an excellent partner over the past years and even though they're now known as TORQUE BUILDERS INC, they've stepped-up to the plate for 2014 to back the series once again."

With sponsorship in place for the Ontario Modifieds Racing Series, powered by TORQUE BUILDERS INC., the next step in the process was finding a place to race. Feedback from the fans and race teams following the 2013 finale opened the door, and after talks with Peterborough Speedway owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse, dates were made available on their schedule.

Within days of that confirmation, conversations with John Casale of Flamboro Speedway (near Hamilton, Ontario) provided OMRS with a second venue for 2014.

In celebration of their exciting off-season announcements, the Ontario Modifieds Racing Series, powered by TORQUE BUILDERS INC. had a presence at the popular Canadian Motorsports Expo in Toronto, with copies of their tentative schedule available for fans at the Flamboro Speedway display.

Series organizers say that drivers, teams and especially fans can look forward to a thrilling season of open wheel racing action, with the Ontario Modifieds Racing Series, powered by TORQUE BUILDERS INC.

"With Flamboro Speedway on the schedule, we could very well see some new drivers and teams join the series," said the group. "When working with both tracks, we also did our best to build a schedule that would avoid any potential conflicts that would prevent our drivers from running at other venues during off weekends."

Additional OMRS information can be found at www.ontariomodifiedsracing.com or at www.facebook.com/OMRS Ontario Modifieds Racing Series powered by TORQUE BUILDERS INC.

TORQUE BUILDERS INC. Ontario Modifieds tentative 2014 schedule*:
Saturday, May 10th: Flamboro Speedway
Saturday, June 7th: Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, July 12th: Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, August 16th: Peterborough Speedway
Saturday, September 6th: Flamboro Speedway
Friday, October 3rd: Flamboro Speedway
Saturday, October 4th: Flamboro Speedway

* Additional dates to be announced

From GMM

Gerard Lopez, the Lotus team owner, has played down suggestions the Enstone squad is still grappling with financial problems.

The team's problems of late last year, when Kimi Raikkonen went unpaid and crucial negotiations with the Quantum group faltered, are well known.

But Lopez said that the decision not to test the new car at Jerez recently is not because Lotus had no money.

"We said that there would be some (technical) trouble and it was actually the case," the Luxembourger, referring to the Red Bull-Renault crisis, told France's Infosport Plus.

"I know we had a lot of criticism, people said we lack the budget but that is wrong because it cost us the same to go (to Jerez) a week later," Lopez insisted.

Lotus gave its new E22 a successful rollout at Jerez on Saturday, a week after the other Renault powered teams, notably world champions Red Bull, faltered so badly.

"We were very well prepared. No problems, no overheating, nothing -- the car ran like clockwork, which was quite surprising when you look at what happened at Jerez the first time. We are ready to go to Bahrain and start running in the first hour.

"Maybe we are better prepared. Maybe our strategy to wait and work at the factory was the better one. We will see in Bahrain. We will not mention the others, or at least not as much as they mention us," said Gerard Lopez.

Pastor Maldonado and Romain Grosjean at Enstone. (Photo: Lotus F1 Team)

SUVs and CUVs are a fad in constant evolution. Unlike the minivan that is, well, a minivan, the utility vehicles can and do morph into many things from family movers to performance cars.

The BMW X5 is one of the first SUVs to have successfully blended its utility aspect with that of a sport sedan over 15 years ago. Now in its 3rd generation, the X5 continues to be a popular choice for buyers looking for all that a vehicle can offer, namely a real driving experience, luxury and the all-important panache that comes with buying a BMW product.

This latest iteration puts the emphasis on being posh over all-out performance, unless you select the X5 M, of course. Be that as it may, the 2014 BMW X5 xDrive35i remains a solid driver's SUV that is as good to drive, as it is to look at. The competition has caught up though...


What is a BMW X5?
The 2014 BMW X5 xDrive35i is the Bavarian brand's kingpin CUV-SUV, towering above the X3 and X1 below it. First introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model-year, like most newly introduced luxury utility vehicles at the time the X5 took off, and as a sales hero filled BMW's coffers with lots of money.

The 2014 BMW X5 is fresh from a near-complete makeover that has seen the Sport Activity Vehicle grow ever so slightly longer, wider, and taller.

2014 BMW X5 Price and Specs
To call a 2014 X5 xDrive35i your own, you must part with $62,900. This “pedestrian-level” X5 can and will likely be enhanced by numerous packages as demonstrated by my tester. Slathered with the Premium, Technology, ConnectedDrive, and Bang&Olufsen audio system, the total topped at $77,590.

Available versions also include the $64,400 xDrive35d (diesel) and the $76,500 xDrive50i.

The 2014 35i features a TwinPower turbo 3.0L I6 good for 300 horsepower and equal torque. The 35d rolls with a 3.0L I6 turbo diesel (255 horsepower 413 lb-ft of torque). The monster 50i uses a Turbo 4.4L V8 that mashes out 445 horsepower and 479 torques. All wear an 8-speed autobox and run BMW xDrive AWD systems (rear-wheel biased).

First introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model-year, like most newly introduced luxury utility vehicles at the time the X5 took off, and as a sales hero filled BMW's coffers with lots of money. (Photo: BMW)

Driving the 2014 BMW X5
As an SUV/CUV/SAV, the BMW X5 delivers on every front where driving is involved. It all begins under the bonnet. The turbocharged I6, offered in BMW products for over 8 years (in various states), still hovers at or near the top of my favourite 6-cylinder engine list.

The efficiency at which this mill dispenses its energy is what is most surprising. At 2,173 kg, the X5 will still shoot to 100km/hr in just over 6.6 seconds. The inline-6 sound that rushes through the cabin is muscular, as is boost and torque. With no lag and no hesitation from the transmission, the 2014 BMW X5 xDrive35i makes light of passing and accelerating. Imagine, for a moment, what it must be like with the V8...

All good BMWs make use of a suspension calibrated for handling with little or no sacrifice where ride comfort is concerned. In this X5's case, the compromise was on the “little” side. I found uneven road surfaces to upset the big Bimmer's serenity far more than I had anticipated. The rather short amount of wheel travel seemed to be the culprit, at least in part.

By the same token, I could wrap myself around a corner or clip an apex and make fun of a 5-year-old Mustang and a late model Civic... With this taut suspension ties in steering that is the best in the segment. On-centre feel is tight and response to inputs is nearly immediate. Likewise, I have to love the brakes, which react with more ferocity than their size and vocation would indicate.

All of this is laudable, but where the 2014 BMW X5 used to sit taller on it wheels than its competition, it hasn't evolved enough to be the best “truck” with these qualities in 2014, no matter how good it is.

The efficiency at which this mill dispenses its energy is what is most surprising. At 2,173 kg, the X5 will still shoot to 100km/hr in just over 6.6 seconds. (Photo: BMW)

Inside and Out of the BMW X5
Initially, I was left cold by the 2014 X5's new look. When I finally came face-to-face with it, my mind changed. Yet, it changed again when I got to spend an entire week with it.

Like the drive, the Bimmer's physical progress seems timid. Sure, some of its character lines are bolder and crisper than before, but it's not the strapping young buck it once was. The Mercedes M-Class has gone all “dynamic” in the last little while, as has the Porsche Cayenne.

The cabin is also a watered down evolution from the 2nd generation X5, but it somehow works far better. A BMW interior is rich in craftsmanship and materials, and is always luxurious. With enough familiarity, navigating the 2014 BMW X5's multiple menus becomes simple enough. The HMI experience is generally good or on par with the competition.

The new seats are impressively well sorted for support and comfort. Room abounds in both rows, and the truck is spacious enough for most “normal” applications.

A BMW interior is rich in craftsmanship and materials, and is always luxurious. With enough familiarity, navigating the 2014 BMW X5's multiple menus becomes simple enough. (Photo: BMW)

Comparing the 2014 BMW X5
The BMW X5 faces some very intense competition from all of its German brethren. The Mercedes M-Class, the Porsche Cayenne, the Audi Q7, and the Volkswagen Touareg are the ones I'm talking about. From elsewhere, we find the Cadillac SRX and Infiniti QX70, and there are more.

In the X5's price range, choice is the issue. The BMW deserves a test drive, but may not be the one you sign for -- unless the logo means a lot to you. In that case, it's irreplaceable.

This article will be updated during the 2014 Formula 1 season. We will include the links of the major news posted during the year.

The 2014 Formula 1 season marks the introduction of new V6 turbo hybrid powerplants, a severe fuel restriction rule, rigorously revised aerodynamics, a more powerful Energy Recovery System, new Pirelli tires and new Grands Prix in Austria and Russia.

From now on, the F1 cars will be powered by 1.6-litre, turbocharged and hybrid V6 engines.

Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull Racing (Photo: Red Bull)

2014 Formula 1 calendar:

March 16: Australia
March 30: Malaysia
April 6: Bahrain
April 20: China
May 11: Spain
May 25: Monaco
June 8: Canada
June 22: Austria
July 6: Britain
July 20: Germany
July 27: Hungary
August 24: Belgium
September 7: Italy
September 21: Singapore
October 5: Japan
October 12 Russia
November 2: United States (COTA Austin)
November 9: Brazil
November 23: Abu Dhabi

Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari (Photo: Ferrari)

SECTION 1
2014 CAR LAUNCHES

McLaren MP4-29

Ferrari F14 T

Sauber C33

Toro Rosso STR9

Mercedes W05

Red Bull RB10

Williams FW36

Caterham CT05

Sahara Force India VJM07

Marussia MR03

Lotus E22 (official launch still to come)

Jenson Button, McLaren (Photo: McLaren)

SECTION 2
2014 FORMULA 1 DRIVERS' HELMETS

Photos of the helmets of the 2014 Formula 1 drivers


SECTION 3
2014 FORMULA 1 CARS
Photos of the 2014 Formula turbo cars, plus teams' websites, Twitter accounts and Facebook fan pages.

Sergio Perez, Sahara Force India (Photo: Sahara Force India F1 Team)

SECTION 4
2014 TECHNICAL AND SPORTING REGULATIONS

F1 Technique: The components of the new V6 turbo F1 power unit

F1: A look at the 2014 Formula 1 technical rules

F1: A closer look at the ''anteater'' noses of the 2014 F1 turbo cars

F1 Technique: Photos of Renault's Energy F1 Power Unit (+photos)

F1: Mercedes leaks first images of new F1 V6 turbo engine

Few Canadians can debate the wholesome functionality, usefulness, and handiness of small-truck ownership.

Whether you're renovating, getting into a new adventure sport or planning on numerous yard-related projects in the upcoming year, the used truck marketplace has you covered with affordable models that offer relatively decent fuel consumption and top-notch levels of payload and capability to get the job done. Heck, chances are you'll find new uses for your new-to-you little pickup every week you own it.

If you haven't got a mobile home or numerous skids of roofing shingles to haul around at any given time, the following small-pickup models might be on your radar. Most can be had affordably, and most should offer solid reliability if they pass a few mandatory checks.

Here's a look at what owners like about their small trucks, and what they say you should be on the lookout for.

2005 to 2011 Dodge Dakota
The Draw: Dakota's two-and-a-half decade run came to a halt in 2011 because of declining small-truck sales -- though the market is full of used examples for shoppers after performance and style. Owners of this-generation Dakota typically rate power, ride quality, a solid driving feel, capability, and cabin spaciousness highly. Models with the V8 engine are said to be plenty powerful and responsive in all situations.

Look for up to 310 horsepower from the 4.7L V8, with a 3.7L V6 as standard. If you're after a newer small truck with a V8, this is one of your only options. Look for a 2007 or older model if you're after a 6-speed stick, and shop a 2007 or newer model for more V8 power, a more refined cabin, and more features.

Dodge Dakota 2008 (Photo: Dodge)

The Checks: Online, owners have complained about less-than-durable front-end construction, so have a good “listen” for signs of popping or clunking as you drive over rough roads and bumps, and “feel” the front-end for signs of slop. A mechanic should check the Dakota's suspension for maximum confidence, having a look at the transmission, transfer case and differential for signs of fluid leakage while it's in the air.

Ensure the transmission shifts smoothly, noting any hesitation, “slipping” or “banging” sensations while the transmission shifts at light, moderate, and full throttle. Drivers should also “feel” for a vibration at highway speeds, which could indicate a transmission problem. The transmission should shift cleanly and smoothly in all situations.

Note that hesitation or a rough idle from either engine could indicate a sensor or electronic problem with the engine control unit. Confirm that all stereo speakers are working properly, and be sure there is no sign of moisture in the Dakota's carpeting, which could be the result of a bad window or sunroof seal.

2010 Dodge Dakota (Photo: Dodge)

Continue reading Buyers Guide: Small Trucks on the Cheap

From GMM

F1 could have not one, but two new teams in 2015.

Italy's Autosprint reports that, in Paris early this week, the FIA began the official evaluation process after inviting expressions of interest in filling the pitlane vacancy created by HRT's demise.

But correspondent Roberto Chinchero reports that there are, in fact, two team vacancies on the grid at present.

"There is no official information," he said, "but rumours are beginning that the doors to F1 could open for two teams."

The candidature of Nascar team co-owner Gene Haas is well known, but Autosprint said the other successful applicant could be the former Force India and HRT team chief Colin Kolles.

Italy's Omnicorse reports that a third applicant, Serbian Zoran Stefanovic who tried and failed to enter a team a few years ago, has "little hope" for 2015.

The FIA's decision will be announced at the end of the month.

Photo: WRi2

The sensational Toyota FT-1 concept, which took the Detroit Auto Show crowd by surprise a month ago, will indeed enter production. Even better, it's going to resurrect a name adored by many sports car enthusiasts: Supra.

Photo: Toyota

Quoting unidentified sources from within the company, Australia's Motoring.com.au reports that the production Supra will emulate the FT-1 concept's styling and offer a choice of two engines: a 2.0L 4-cylinder with an estimated 250 horsepower and a 6-cylinder generating more than 400 horsepower. The base model would start under $100,000, undercutting the Nissan GT-R.

Photo: Toyota

Unfortunately, we will likely have to wait at least two years to get a clear picture of what the next Toyota Supra will look like.

Source : autos.ca

From GMM

Not everyone thinks Kimi Raikkonen will struggle to keep up with Fernando Alonso at Ferrari this year.

Despite the fact the returning Finn Raikkonen is the Italian marque's last champion, departed Felipe Massa recently tipped Alonso to lead this year because he "combines talent with brains".

Raikkonen's countryman Mika Hakkinen, however, the 1998 and 1999 world champion with McLaren, thinks Ferrari will win with a Finn.

"I think Kimi's driving style is really perfect for these turbo cars," he is quoted by the Spanish daily Marca. "Alonso pushes too hard, so I think Kimi will beat him."

Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

From GMM

With one leaving and another joining, two well-known F1 names have given their view about the once-great British team Williams.

Arriving at Grove is the long-time Ferrari driver Felipe Massa, who told Brazilian television Rede Globo: "I'm very happy. It is a time when I needed a change and it's at an important moment in formula one when everything is changing."

With similar reasoning for departing Williams, however, is Xevi Pujolar, a long-serving engineer who has quit the team to join Toro Rosso.

"Last year, the situation was quite difficult and Williams did not feel right. So I decided to change," he told Spain's El Confidencial.

"When Pat Symonds arrived I was fine with it because he is someone with great experience, there were other factors as well. I had spoken several times with Toro Rosso and it looked like a growing team with great potential."

Xevi Pujolar and Claire Williams, Nurburgring 2013. (Photo: WRi2)

Spaniard Pujolar, 40, said part of the problem at Williams was its difficulty in adapting from life at the very front of the grid.

"You have to accept that times are changing and make different plans," he said. "And accept that you're not world champion anymore. But now I think they are making many changes and will improve. Personally, I needed a change of scenery."

Finally, Xevi Pujolar laughed when asked if he would change places with a Renault engineer at present, given the French marque's current technical troubles.

"I think I'm fine where I am!" he said.

Employers with fewer than 100 workers, including many new-car dealers, won't have to provide health insurance until 2016 under the U.S. Affordable Health Care Act, as the administration said it would again delay a key requirement of the health law.

Volkswagen AG has been soliciting subsidies from Tennessee and Mexico, hoping to pick a production site this year for a mid-sized SUV due to go on sale in 2016.

General Motors expects to pay CEO Mary Barra about $14.4 million this year, GM said today in response to reports speculating on her compensation compared with that of retired CEO Dan Akerson.

When

News 4 Mar, 2014

New Skoda Octavia Scout makes its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show