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From press release

For third-generation Late Model competitor Billy Zardo, the 2013 season will forever be known as the turning point of his young career. In those 18 weeks, Zardo earned his first career Late Model victory, sat atop the point standings for the first time and most importantly, moved from a student of the sport to a certified championship contender.

“It felt like 2013 was the season we've been working towards since we started in the Limited Late Model division”, explained Zardo. “I've been so fortunate to be surrounded by incredible people since my first days in a Go-Kart. Everything we earned last season was a team effort”.

After earning a pair of feature victories and a top-10 finish in the 2013 championship point standings, Billy - alongside his Hall of Fame Grandfather Billy Zardo Sr. - is ready for a strong follow-up in 2014.

“My grandfather is my biggest fan and my greatest influence”, laments ‘Z3'. “He's been there from the beginning. Everything I've learned is because of him. I know he was proud of what we accomplished last season, but as soon as the trailer door closed on the final night of racing, he had a list of what he was looking for us to accomplish in 2014”.
Entering his fourth year of Ltd. Late Model competition, Zardo is blunt and apologetic about his goals for the upcoming season.

“I want to win the Sunset Speedway championship. I believe our team has always had the knowledge and experience; they were just waiting for me to catch up. I've gone through my learning curves, I've taken my lumps, but I feel as though they've made me a better competitor. I'm ready now”.

A championship campaign at Sunset - never an easy feat - will be even more difficult in 2014. The Innisfil, ON facility has shortened its Ltd. Late Model schedule to 10 points paying events, with each feature race extended from 30-laps to 50-laps.

“A 10-race schedule puts a lot of pressure on any team”, reasons Zardo. “You can't have a bad night. Heck, you can't have a bad lap. You have to be as close to perfect as possible. Because you know the guy beside you is trying to do the same thing”.

Zardo's season will begin on May 3rd, with the first annual running of Sunset Speedway's 100-lap Great Lakes Concrete Spring Derby. Marketing support for ‘Z3's 2014 campaign will come from Holmes on Homes, National Exhaust, Hassell Automotive, Big Chute Marina, J.A. Towing, Smart Screen and Better Contracting. For more information on Billy and the rest of the Zardo team, be sure to visit the Zardo Racing page on Facebook.

From press release

Scuderia Corsa has retained drivers Stefan Johansson and Lorenzo Case to partner with the drivers of the no. 63 Scuderia Corsa Ferrari 458 Italia, Alessandro Balzan and Jeff Westphal, for next weekend's 12 Hours of Sebring. 

Johansson, a veteran of 109 Formula One races with two seasons spent with Scuderia Ferrari, has twice won at the 12 Hours of Sebring. His second win, in 1997, came behind the wheel of a Ferrari 333SP, and he also has one overall victory and two class victories at the 24 Hours of LeMans. He was also recently named the Sporting Director of the Scuderia Corsa team.

Case drove with the team at the season-opening Rolex 24 at Daytona. He, Balzan, and Westphal will be making their first start in Sebring's endurance classic, while Johansson is making his 12th start.

Scuderia Corsa Ferrari 458 italia No. 63 (Photo: Bob Chapman/Autosport Image)

"Certainly, when I joined the Scuderia Corsa program as their Sporting Director, I didn't know this was what Giacomo had in mind," said Johansson.

"But in all seriousness, I am thrilled to join the team for Sebring. With the way the driver rankings had worked out for the GT-Daytona class, Giacomo asked if I could help out and of course I am happy to. As they showed last season and at Daytona, the Scuderia Corsa Ferrari and its drivers are capable of winning the championship and I am happy to contribute in any way that I can."

Scuderia Corsa team owner Giacomo Mattioli, who has known Johansson since his time with the Scuderia Ferrari F1 team, expressed his delight in his four-driver lineup for Sebring.

"I am very excited to welcome my friend of over thirty years, Stefan, to the team.," said Mattioli. "His experience and speed will be a great asset for us, in this race which is very important not only to use, but to our partners at Ferrari North America who are celebrating their 60th anniversary. We hope to add a GT-D class victory to the long list of Ferrari's victories at Sebring."

The team is looking to rebound from a disappointing run at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, where they finished in 11th position.

After contending for the lead in the GT-Daytona class from the start of the race, through the night, and into the morning hours, Balzan was forced to bring the Ferrari behind the wall for repairs when a backmarker hit him in Daytona's infield. Time lost making repairs meant the chance for victory was lost, and the team is eager to have another shot at a win at Sebring.

Model: 2007 to 2013 Audi Q7

Vehicle Type: Luxury SUV

The Verdict: Like most luxury crossover SUVs, the Audi Q7 will appeal more strongly to shoppers after looks, pedigree, and a world-class driving experience than those after low running costs and total sensibility. Shoppers are advised to make the checks listed below, seeking out a Q7 from an Audi dealer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program for maximum confidence where possible.

Price: Shoppers after a Q7 should have no trouble locating an older, high-mileage unit for under $18,000, with newer, low-mileage units or demonstrators pushing well into the $70,000 range or higher.

Photo: Rpb Rothwell

History/Description: Audi's shot at the BMW X5, Mercedes ML, and comparable luxury crossover models is called the Q7. Launched for model-year 2007, this long-lived model packed standard Quattro AWD technology and a lengthy list of creature comforts, connectivity technologies and world-class luxury features including premium audio, climate controlled seats, a panoramic moonroof, voice-command, navigation, a full multimedia interface, push-button start, and more.

Engine choices initially consisted of a 3.6L V6 or a 4.2L V8, though a smaller, supercharged V6 and TDI Clean Diesel V6 hit the options roster later in the Q7's life. All models were automatic, and various trim grades, options, and packages provided plenty of opportunity for customization. For instance, the S-Line package dialed up the Q7's sportiness with exclusive visual and chassis upgrades, and the “premium” package featured a collection of upscale equipment bundled together at an attractive price.

Photo: Rpb Rothwell

What Owners Like: Q7 owners rave about wintertime traction, a fantastic ride (thanks to the available adaptive suspension system), and feeling fully “backed up” when road conditions are at their worst. The up-level audio system and the overall high-quality look and feel throughout the Q7 are highly rated, too. Performance from the V8 and supercharged V6 engines are common praise points. In all, the Q7 seems to be a much-loved model when it comes to delivering a confident and luxurious crossover driving experience.

What Owners Dislike: Complaints include the initial learning curve to the MMI central command interface, the lengthy wheelbase that can make parking a challenge, and the fuel consumption on some models.

Photo: Rpb Rothwell

The Test Drive: Start your test drive by confirming proper operation of all on-board electronics. Some owners, especially those who don't drive their Q7 on a daily basis, say that various systems can get “fussy” when the battery voltage drops after a few days of sitting. Consider a trickle charger for your new-to-you Q7 if you won't be driving it often.

On models with the 3.6L V6, be sure to have the computer system scanned for any stored trouble codes related to engine misfire, which is somewhat common and likely caused by a faulty injector or ignition coil. Be sure to “feel'” this engine's performance on a test drive at light, moderate, and full throttle and note any signs of “missing” or “hesitation” as well.

Have the underside of the used Audi Q7 you're considering checked by a mechanic for signs of oil leaks, worn-out suspension components, and worn-out brakes for maximum peace of mind. A full brake-job at an Audi dealer is very pricey according to Q7 owners, so be sure the seller isn't trying to stick you with the bill for worn-out brakes.

On models with the panoramic moonroof, be sure to thoroughly inspect the cabin carpeting in both front footwells for signs of moisture, odor or mildew that could indicate a leak. A leaky moonroof in the Q7 could cause water to seep onto electrical connectors and fuse panels, leading to a world of problems.

Other checks should include proper operation of the tailgate, the MMI system, the Bluetooth, and the parking radar system, if equipped. If possible, avoid used models with the air suspension system, which can be pricey to repair if and when it wears out.

Photo: Rpb Rothwell

Carmakers are tapping smartphone technology to spruce up low-cost minicars and try to get an edge in a market that has grown to account for almost 10 percent of new-car sales in Europe.

In apologizing for its response to a faulty ignition switch that triggered a recall of about 1.6 million cars, General Motors has vowed that it will do business differently than the company that filed for bankruptcy in 2009.

As General Motors' head of product development, Mary Barra gave employees a clear order: "No more crappy cars." Two months into her CEO tenure, the crappy cars of old GM are exacting revenge on the born-again automaker.

Nissan designers have retained one of the brand's most polarizing designs -- and want to keep it looking different in the future.

General Motors has a strategy to deal with consumers' social media gripes about ignition switch defects: search for complaints, respond quickly and assist customers.

Nissan designers have retained one of the brand's most polarizing designs -- and want to keep it looking different in the future.

Mini may not replace the Coupe/Roadster and Paceman as the brand moves to focus on core models.

From IndyCar

The four-lap, 10-mile run to qualify for the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race is one of the most daunting challenges in the IndyCar Series. This May a new qualifying format to set the 33-car starting lineup will be introduced with the goal of increasing entertainment value for the 2014 qualifying weekend on May 17-18, 2014.

“This new format includes two exciting days of on-track action, all culminating on Sunday with the Fast Nine Shootout,” said Mark Miles, CEO, Hulman Motorsports. “Fans get to watch their favourite drivers battle to make the field on Saturday, and then fight for a pole position on Sunday.”

Qualifying will be enhanced with three sessions of time trials over two eventful days:

Saturday, May 17 (11 a.m.-5:50 p.m. ET)
• The fastest 33 cars compose the starting field (but not starting positions).
• All entries are guaranteed at least one four-lap attempt to qualify.
• The fastest nine entries advance to the Fast Nine Shootout.

Sunday, May 18 (10:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m. ET)
• Saturday times are erased and entries 10-33 must complete another four-lap attempt to determine their starting position in order of the slowest to fastest from Saturday times.

Fast Nine Shootout, Sunday, May 18 (2-2:45 p.m. ET)
• Saturday times are erased. Each entry will receive one four-lap attempt in the order of the slowest to the fastest from Saturday times. Aggregate times will determine the Verizon P1 Award winner and top three rows.

Qualifying results on Saturday and Sunday will include new points incentives to be announced at a later date. Practice sessions before time trials commence are scheduled both days.

“There is an enormous amount of talent in the field this year, which so far includes five former Indianapolis 500 champions,” said Derrick Walker, IndyCar President of Competition and Operations.

“The new format presents an additional challenge to drivers who have one chance to make the field on Saturday, and start over again on Sunday to determine their starting position.”

The race itself is scheduled for May 25th.

From press release

RK M-Sport World Rally Team's Robert Kubica witnessed a day of highs and lows today as Rally Mexico resumed in the hills north of Guanajuato. Despite running as high as fourth overall, a roll on the penultimate super special put paid to his efforts - relegating the popular Pole to ninth position.

A challenging event for any newcomer, Rally Mexico's technical stages may appear smooth and hazard-free, but the gravel tracks hide a number of perils. Making it through all but two of the stages unscathed, the Pole was on course for a fantastic result on what is his first long-haul event and only his third rally behind the wheel of the Ford Fiesta RS WRC.

The day did not start without its dramas - the high temperatures resulting in a gearshift issue through the first pass of 'El Chocolate'. Having to change gear manually, the 44.03 kilometre stage became a real test. Having to keep one hand on the gear-lever at all times, his sixth fastest time was an impressive feat and testament to both his physical and mental strength.

Robert Kubica, Ford Fiesta RS WRC (Photo: M-Sport)

With the M-Sport team rectifying the issue for the afternoon loop, Kubica was free to up his pace without restraint. Growing in confidence, the Formula One race winner was on course for an impressive fourth place - challenging the front-runners with a string of competitive times including a third fastest time through the second pass of 'Parque Gto Bicentenario' (SS9).

Unfortunately, the final drama was yet to come and Kubica's hard work was to be undone through the final super specials. Clipping a concrete bollard in SS10, his Fiesta was forced into a roll, and its driver ultimately forced to accept Rally 2 regulations for the remainder of the rally.

Yet with more than 60 per cent of the event left to run, there remains all to play for and Kubica will come back strongly - determined to make the most of another new challenge.

"I was really happy with our driving and we were on course for a really strong result so it is very disappointing that the day had to finish the way that it did," said the former F1 driver.

"We weren't taking any big risks. We had found a rhythm that we were comfortable with and the plan was to continue like that. We were learning a lot and improving the pace, so it is really disappointing that the day ended as it did."

Nobody can anticipate the results of the Australian Grand Prix because the new rules introduced this year have changed the very concept of a grand prix.

That is the view of Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso.

"I think the concept of what constitutes a Grand Prix will actually change this year, with Saturday and Sunday being very different from one another," the 32-year-old from Ovideo is quoted saying by his team.

"In qualifying, one will be able to get everything out of the car, pushing the new power unit to the limit, trying to get the absolutely best result.

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari F14-T (Photo: WRi2)

"But in the race you won't get anywhere near that level. (In) the closing stages this year, you will have to bear in mind how much fuel you have left, the state of the batteries and that of the tires."

The two-time world champion is not getting involved in the debate over whether the new rules are good or bad. He simply hopes they remain stable for some time to allow fans to acclimatize.

"As drivers, we will get used to it quickly and so I hope these rules aren't immediately overturned and that they stay unchanged for a few years," he added.

"Otherwise the spectators could lose confident in this new Formula 1 which is very complex, even for the viewer."

From press release

Brazilian racer Felipe Nasr will continue for a second season with race winning team Carlin in the 2014 GP2 Series.

Nasr's strong showing in 2013 helped Carlin secure second position in the Team's Championship. Nasr, who was recently announced as the Williams Formula One team's Reserve and Test Driver, will be in action with Carlin next week during the first official GP2 Series test in Abu Dhabi. 

The 2013 season was Nasr's second year in the highly competitive GP2 Series and after two fantastic opening weekends Nasr was the man to beat. Over the course of the season Nasr took a total of six podiums on his way to fourth overall in the championship.

The 21-year-old's consistency also contributed to Carlin finishing the year as runner up in the Team Championship, on equal points to Russian Time.

Felipe Nasr, GP2 (Photo: Paolo Pellegrini)

The 2014 season looks set to be a busy year for Nasr as he runs his GP2 campaign alongside an exciting new role with the Williams Formula One team. Nasr, who has officially been announced as the reserve and test driver for the British team, will participate in five free practice sessions over the course of the FIA Formula One season.

The Brazilian racer has already tested the Williams car in Bahrain setting the fourth fastest time of the day's running after a total of 87 laps.

"I'm really happy to be with Carlin this year," said Nasr. "We work very well together and it's a very easy relationship. This year I want to go one better and push hard to win the championship; with a strong team like Carlin, and the new rules in regards to the tyres I think we can do this.

"It's also going to be a great year for me to be involved with the Williams Formula One team and learn from them. I'll be attending every race this season with a strong attitude so can't wait for everything to start," he added.

From press release

Following his stratosphere jump in 2012, extreme athlete Felix Baumgartner is tackling his next big challenge on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. The Austrian will obtain a racing license and become a race driver with the Audi race experience team on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife.

"The Audi race experience makes it possible for Audi's customers with sporting ambitions to enter racing. But never before has the program, which the Audi driving experience has been running since 2010, had as prominent a driver as this one. It's fantastic that were cooperating with Felix Baumgartner this year," says Klaus Demel, the head of the Audi driving experience.

Felix Baumgartner, Audi R8 LMS ultra (Photo: Audi)

"As an extreme athlete, Felix Baumgartner has been thrilling millions of fans around the world with his daring actions that combine ingenuity and exceptional technical demands. Now we're familiarizing him with our sport, offer him a professional environment with our team, and are very excited about this new, joint challenge."

As a guest entrant, Baumgartner has been gathering some racing experience in recent years during occasional runs in the one-make cups of the Volkswagen Group. The big difference in the 2014 season: the Audi R8 LMS ultra provides him with a 419 kW (570 hp) pure-bred GT3 race car.

The 44-year-old is completing an extensive preparation program before competing in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring on June 21/22, 2014. His team-mates are equally prominent: The five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela (D), the three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner (D) as well as the GT and sports car pro Pierre Kaffer (D) will be his colleagues in the cockpit.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO Sergio Marchionne was awarded salary and stock awards worth $307,989 last year for heading Chrysler. His compensation from Fiat for 2013 will be announced later this month.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Chief Executive Sergio Marchionne was awarded salary and stock awards worth $307,989 last year for heading Chrysler Group, according to a filing with U.S. regulators by the automaker on Friday.

Plenty of race-car drivers and automaker executives still remember the mantra, and#8220;Win on Sunday, sell on Monday.and#8221;

Used-vehicle prices, bolstered by consumers using their income tax refunds to buy used cars and trucks, rose 0.8 percent in February from January and 1.1 percent from February 2013, the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index showed today.

The 2014 Shelby Vegas Bash is set to begin April 14, leading right into the 50th birthday celebration of the Mustang Club of America.