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May
29th

2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed Preview

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Pros: Available as a coupe or convertible, the aptly named 2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed is even more powerful and faster than the “base” model. It's a stunning 2-door automobile that's capable of fast lap times, but it's a real-world supercar, not a track special. Its hand-crafted interior, which can be trimmed in a seemingly endless variety of materials, provides supreme comfort over long distances.

Cons: This car's expensive, even by luxury standards. Its sheer size requires care when driving in tight spots. At the same time, rear-seat access and room is somewhat limited. Of course, the W12 engine will suck your wallet dry at the pumps.

Bentley Continental GT Speed
Photo: Bentley

2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed Price: Detailed pricing is unavailable, though it costs in excess of $260,000. Contact your local dealer.

2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed Fuel Economy: The official ratings for the Continental GT Speed are 18.1L/100km in the city and 10.4L/100km on the highway. In the real world, though, you can expect to burn a bit more than that.

Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the Speed edition is available as a convertible, too. Options and packages have been revised.

2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed Powertrain: Outfitted with Bentley's 6.0L twin-turbocharged W12 powerhouse, the Continental GT Speed generates a whopping 626 hp and 605 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, which translates into a top speed of 331 km/h and a 0-100km/h dash in 4.2 seconds -- astonishing feats for a car that weighs nearly three tons. As with all Continental models, the state-of-the-art all-wheel drive system employs an advanced Torsen differential and a 40/60 rear-biased torque split.

Don't miss: The sports chassis and lowered suspension accentuate the glued-to-the-road sensation during high-speed cornering. And while nothing compares with the sound of a Bentley engine in full cry, the GT Speed's exclusive Naim for Bentley premium audio system (optional) is definitely worth listening to.

Safety: The 2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed comes standard with a full suite of airbags and electronic nannies including front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control. Convertibles are fitted with automatic pop-up roll bars for added rollover protection.

Comparing the 2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed: Rivals include the Aston Martin Vanquish, Ferrari FF, Porsche 911 Turbo, Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG, and Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe.

May
29th

F1: Lewis Hamilton should ”learn how to loose”

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From GMM

Lewis Hamilton should consider apologizing to Nico Rosberg in the wake of the Monaco grand prix.

That is the claim of double world champion Mika Hakkinen, having already denounced Briton Hamilton's "sub-standard behaviour" in the Principality last weekend.

"I appreciate Nico's patience in this situation," Hakkinen was quoted by Finland's Ilta Sanomat newspaper.

"I do not like the idea of what Lewis did," he added, referring to Hamilton's accusations of sabotage and his refusal to congratulate or even look at new championship leader Rosberg after his back-to-back Monaco win.

Now, Hakkinen is not sure even time can ease the tension between the two Mercedes drivers.

"It's hard to tell if something is going to change significantly," he is quoted in his latest Hermes column.

"I don't know if Lewis would even consider apologizing for his behaviour. It is a very individual thing.

"But in my opinion, one of the characteristics of a good winner is that he also knows how to lose," Hakkinen added.

F1 Mercedes AMG W05 Lewis Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes AMG W05. (Photo: WRi2)

The former McLaren driver, who retired in 2001 and is now 45, was at the grand prix last weekend, where Hamilton suspected Rosberg deliberately ruined his qualifying lap.

Hakkinen is not so sure.

"To me it is clear he locked his brakes at Mirabeau," said the Finn. "It is downhill there with nasty bumps and so making a mistake is easy to do.

"Nico is an honest guy," Mika Hakkinen added, "but you can also see on the computer very precisely where he hit the brakes."


May
29th

Formula E: Franck Montagny to race for Andretti Team

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The Andretti Team announced it would run former Formula 1 driver, Frenchman Franck Montagny in the new FIA Formula E Championship.

Montagny becomes the first driver announced for Michael Andretti's new adventure in the fully electric FIA Formula E Championship.

Montagny brings a value bag of experience with him, having race in F1 and for Peugeot Sport in endurance racing.

The French driver recently raced for Andretti Autosport in the Verizon IndyCar series, competing in the Grand Prix of Indianapolis early May.

 

May
29th

Emotion-detecting cars

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ADVERTORIAL — It's a well known fact that the majority of road accidents are caused by human error. Consequently, engineers around the world are attempting to change drivers' behaviour in order to make cars safer. In the United States and Sweden, Google and Volvo are striving to create a self-driving car. Here, insurers are trying to encourage safer driving by installing speed-monitoring devices in car engines. However, in Europe, researchers want to give your car a way of monitoring much more than just your speed... Say hello to empathetic cars that can sense your emotions!

Current research
Over the past few years, facial recognition research -- and technology -- has advanced rapidly. One of the largest research facilities in the field, the Signal Processing Laboratory 5 (LTS5), is currently developing potential applications for this technology in cars.

Why? Simply because a person in the throes of a strong emotional outburst tends to be a worse driver than a person who is calm. Irritation and fatigue are among the worst culprits and are at the root of many road accidents. Consequently, researchers at LTS5 are focused on automated facial-expression tracking for drivers. This type of empathetic car could potentially reduce the number of accidents on the road by reacting to the emotional state of its driver, and setting a temporary speed limit, for example. It must be said, however, that the technology hasn't been perfected yet. Test results so far reveal too much imprecision to allow the technology to be brought to market in the short term.

What is the advantage for drivers?
Why would drivers want a device like this in their cars? It is, after all, a tad invasive to be watched by a machine.

First of all, it could reduce your risk of accidents. It might be annoying to be told to calm down by your car, but it's catastrophically more annoying to be in a severe car accident. Secondly, this technology could open the door to insurance premiums “validated” by monitoring your facial expressions.

Discounts are already offered to people with good driving records. Now just imagine if you could prove to your insurer that you were a calm, attentive driver. There's no guarantee that insurance companies will jump on board to adapt their products to this new technology, even if it does appear on the market, but there's no question that it creates the potential for insurers to offer interesting new options. Will they want to encourage courtesy and calm behind the wheel by offering rebates and bonuses? Will they want to punish drivers for impatience and road rage? Will consumers choose to buy these products of their own free will? Only the future will tell.
May
29th

Ford of Europe sells 500 new Mustangs in 30 seconds

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During the UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid this past Saturday, Ford of Europe managed to get 500 orders for the all-new 2015 Mustang... in just 30 seconds!

A total of 9,300 people from 20 different countries had registered on a special website in hopes of securing one of the first 500 units available in Europe. Ford will contact all the buyers in the next few weeks to complete their order and point them to the nearest dealer.

These lucky customers will have to wait a couple more months, however, since deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fall. They can have their 2015 Ford Mustang in either Race Red coupe or Magnetic Silver droptop configuration.

This is the first time in the Mustang's 50-year history that the car is being sold in Europe by Ford. Previous generations were typically sold in limited numbers by third-party importers.

Source : motorauthority.com

2015 Ford Mustang
Photo: Ford




May
29th

2014 BMW 535d xDrive Review

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I've had a soft spot for the 5 Series for years. There's something gloriously harmonious about the 5 lineup of vehicles from BMW. Not as hotel-like and massive as the 7 Series, but just as fun-to-drive and responsive as the 3 Series, the 5 sits squarely in the middle with the best of both worlds resting on its four wheels.

Now, as if the 5 Series didn't offer enough from the 528 up to the glorious M5, the new 535d adds a dimension I've been longing for behind the wheel of a 5er: diesel torque. Is it the best BMW in the lineup? Perhaps not the best, but it's damn close.


What is a BMW 535d xDrive?
Besides the 3 Series, the 5 is one of BMW's most popular car model lines. Why? Because it offers a pleasant blend of everything one might be looking for in a luxury midsize sedan. Around since the early ‘70s, the 5 Series is now in its sixth generation. From all-wheel drive to turbo engines to hybrids and even a Gran Turismo (GT) wagon-like version, the 5 Series has had many personalities over the years.

2014 BMW 535d xDrive Price and Specs
While the base 528i sedan starts at $54,600 the larger engines across the lineup mean larger price tags, with the 535d sitting at a starting price of just below $70k. With a host of packages and extras on my tester including a Premium Package ($4,200), Technology Package ($4,500), as well as Comfort Seats ($1,500), the final price of my particular Dark Graphite Metallic and Ivory Nappa Leather (stunning) 535d xDrive was a staggering $81,100. They say there's money in oil, well apparently it costs to burn it, too -- in more ways than one.

What I wouldn't lament spending that kind of coin over, however, is the engine nestled beneath the long snout of the 2014 BMW 535d. BMW's inline-6 engines are just fantastic, and this turbo diesel unit is no exception. Spitting out 255 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, the 535d goes like the dickens when prompted. Of course, the xDrive badge means you also get BMW's excellent all-wheel drive.

Driving the 2014 BMW 535d xDrive
If you hadn't caught on already, I quite like driving the 535d. Not only can it be exceptionally comfortable (especially when left in Comfort mode), but it can also tighten up in an instant (with the press of the Sport+ button) to offer a dynamic, sharp romp behind the wheel that'll leave you grinning from ear to ear and not burning gobs of fuel as you would have in a gas-powered version.

Yes, the 535d xDrive feels heavy at times, but is taught and maneuverable under the right conditions. Body roll is nearly nil as the 535d hunkers down in corners and pulls out beautifully with gobs of diesel-driven torque. With the aforementioned Sport+ activated everything comes to life from throttle response to steering input and suspension. BMW's 8-speed automatic handles power well, and shifts can be manipulated manually via steering wheel mounted paddles.

Smooth and sophisticated when it has to be, the 2014 BMW 535d xDrive might sound a bit like a tractor from the outside, but once inside, sound-deadening materials quickly mask any unpleasant auditory diesel-ness

Auto start-stop and an Eco mode also feature BMW's Efficient Dynamics energy recovering system and make for even bigger savings at the pumps. With close to 850km on the gauge cluster by the end of the week, I'd just crossed over the 7L/100 km mark with a combination of city and highway driving (and not with a light foot).

Inside and Out of the 2014 BMW 535d xDrive
This is a seriously handsome automobile. Manly in the best way possible, the 535d looks a bit like a well-tailored Armani suit amongst a host of lesser brands when parked next to other luxury sedans in a lot. BMW's new design language is stellar, and I especially like the pointed front fascia complete with kidney grille, and hawkeye headlights with LEDs and the signature angel eyes.

Inside, my tester's Ivory Nappa Leather interior was stunning to behold, but far from practical. I always love the light colour combo with a dark exterior tone, but the light carpets get instantly dirty (as do doorsills) that I can't imagine having to live with it and not turn completely OCD about it all.

As for space, well the 535d has plenty of that, which is part of its appeal. The back seat is spacious to say the least, and included in the Premium Package featured rear sun shades all around -- perfect for my son on a sunny spring day.

Comparing the 2014 BMW 535d xDrive

Diesel is quickly becoming less of a dirty word here in North America, but competition remains limited when it comes to luxury midsize sedans that offer a diesel option. Of course, there's the Mercedes E 250 Bluetec and Audi's A6 TDI, but essentially that's it.
May
29th

F1: Gene Haas could delay F1 debut in 2016

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From GMM

It appears Gene Haas will not have a formula one team on next year's grid.

As recently as last week, it was reported that the Nascar team co-owner's 'plan A' was to debut with a Gunther Steiner-led, North Carolina-based F1 team in 2015.

At the same time, Haas was trying to put together a 200-strong workforce.

"There are many interested parties," a source told Auto Motor und Sport last week, "but we can only hire people when we know who our engine partner is."

At the Indianapolis 500 last weekend, Haas told motorsport.com that plans to use Ferrari technology are on track. "We haven't exactly signed a formal contract (with Ferrari) but we're pretty close," he said.

And he met with likely chassis maker Dallara during the Indianapolis visit.

"They all can do it, they all want to do it, they're all very interested in helping us," said Gene Haas.

He hinted, however, that time is running out to be ready for 2015.

"I think they are looking at it as a good long-time partnership but it just comes down to you have to order things and it takes time to order things and get things scheduled. It just seems that it's taking longer to accomplish what we wanted to do than we thought," Haas added.

The latest news is that Haas has apparently now decided to target a 2016 debut rather than rush onto next year's grid.

"It's already June," he said, "so it's just seven months away and the timing issues are starting to get real crazy."


May
29th

F1: A limitation on test days could reduce costs in Formula 1

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One of the proposals submitted to reduce costs in Formula 1 would be to drastically reduce the number of test days.

British magazine Autosport writes today that amongst the changes that are discussed by the FIA and the teams is a revamp of the testing regulations.

The story indicated that a number of proposals are being considered, including the ban of in-season testing and the reduction of pre-season testing sessions from three to two.

The teams are divided over the relevance of the in-season test. Some says that they are essential to develop the cars while other directors claim they are an unneeded, additional expense that is a cause of stress for their employees.

Ferrari Technical Director, James Allison considers changes to the testing regulations are a more effective way to cut costs than simply changing technical rules.

McLaren's director of racing, Frenchman Eric Boullier isn't entirely convinced, though, and suggested that too many rule changes over a short period of time could have the opposite effect and rise the costs.

F1 Lotus testing Bahrain
Team Lotus testing at Bahrain. (Photo: WRi2)



May
29th

F1: Felipe Massa ‘glad’ Ferrari axe led to Williams

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From GMM

Felipe Massa says he is "glad" Ferrari dumped him at the end of last year.

The Brazilian drove for the fabled Maranello team between 2006 and 2013, racing alongside highly-rated champions Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso.

But Ferrari chose to sign the returning 2007 title winner Raikkonen for this year, with Massa now insisting he is not surprised the Finn is struggling alongside Spaniard Alonso.

Massa told Germany's Auto Bild he thinks Raikkonen is "maybe not quite as good" as Alonso.

In fact, the 33-year-old said he had the measure of the 'iceman'.

"In 2007 he was champion, but until Monza I was ahead of him," said Massa, recalling his battle with Raikkonen some seven years ago.

"Unfortunately, in our team we had an agreement that Monza would decide who is the number 1, and I was ahead of Kimi when I had a problem with my car.

"In 2008 I was in front of him," Massa added, "and also up until my accident in Hungary in 2009. Nevertheless, Kimi is world champion, and I'm not."

F1 Felipe Massa Ferrari 2008 Kimi Raikkonen
Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari, Istanbul 2008. (Photo: WRi2)

However, Massa insists he has no regrets about losing his Ferrari seat for 2014 and moving to Williams.

"It was absolutely the right move," he told Germany's Sport Bild.

"Looking back now, I am even glad that Ferrari did not want me because it opened the way for coming to Williams.

"I'm pretty relaxed, motivated, the team respects me," Massa explained. "You know, sometimes a change is good.

"I'm older but I feel young again. I'm ready to fight and work hard. I regret nothing," he added.

Felipe Massa also admitted that he doesn't miss the ultra high-pressure of wearing a red suit.

"Absolutely not!" he exclaimed. "At Ferrari it was huge -- if you don't win, you have a big load on your shoulders.

"You try to use it as positive energy, but you are constantly tense. Here at Williams I think only about the racing, which is better," said Massa.


May
28th

Reuss: GM employee morale high despite recalls

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In spite of a slew of recalls that have dogged the company for months, General Motors white-collar employees are working with high spirits, a top GM executive said Wednesday.
May
28th

Roush tapped to build Google’s autonomous prototypes, sources say

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Google will tap Roush Enterprises near Detroit to assemble the tech giant's self-driving prototype vehicles and take advantage of southeast Michigan's automotive supply and technology base, sources said.
May
28th

BUSAN SHOW: Debuts list

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Starting with Press Day on May 29, and the opening ceremony on May 30, the 2014 Busan International Motor Show (BIMOS 2014) is at BEXCO in Busan for 11 days until 8 June.
May
28th

BUSAN SHOW: GM Korea, Hyundai and Kia world premieres

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Starting with Press Day on May 29, and the opening ceremony on May 30, the 2014 Busan International Motor Show (BIMOS 2014) is at BEXCO for 11 days until 8 June.
May
28th

Porsche checks Macan for possible brake problem

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Porsche is inspecting 2,500 Macan SUVs to check for faulty brakes, the carmaker said.
May
28th

Porsche inspecting 2,500 Macan crossovers for possible brake damage

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Porsche is inspecting 2,500 Macan crossovers to check for faulty brakes after quality tests revealed that some brake booster units may have been damaged during the assembly process, the carmaker said on Wednesday.
May
28th

In its first year, Indy 500 ‘glamping’ shows potential: Just a couple of adjustments away from ideal

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For the first time, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway offered and#8220;glamorous campingand#8221; or
May
28th

Hot Mercedes C450 Estate 4Matic spied undisguised

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News 28 May, 2014

Mercedes is readying a hot sub-C63 C-Class model, with AMG-spec looks and a power boost to fight the Audi S4 Avant

May
28th

Hot Mercedes C450 Estate 4Matic spied undisguised – pictures

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Pictures See all 7 picturesHot Mercedes C450 Estate 4Matic spied undisguised - picturesHot Mercedes C450 Estate 4Matic spied undisguised - picturesHot Mercedes C450 Estate 4Matic spied undisguised - pictures 28 May, 2014
May
28th

‘I bet my life’ that Barra was unaware of safety defect, Akerson says

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Former GM CEO Dan Akerson says in a new published report that his successor, Mary Barra, didn't know about a deadly safety defect in GM small cars when she took the job in January.
May
28th

Listen to Mario: The Indianapolis 500 is incredible : Calling it the ‘Greatest Spectacle in Racing’ isn’t an exaggeration

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The Indianapolis 500 is huge. Enormous. Epic.
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