Friday, July 30, 2010

VW CC NOW FOR FIVE


    Volkswagen will now be offering a near-bench seating arrangement for the rear seats of the Comfort Coupe or CC. Launched almost exactly a year ago, the CC had initially been sold as a four-seat, four-door coupe.

    Apparently customers liked the shape and value on offer, but were turned off
    by the four seats. We are South Africans and we like ferrying entire neighbourhoods in our cars. Prices were not increased as a result of the new optional seat.

    The CC comes in four models, with the 2.0 TSI engine worth 147kW being the baseline petrol model and supplied with either a manual or a DSG gearbox. The second petrol is the 3.6-litre V6 running on all four wheels through the 4Motion AWD system and a DSG. The V6 produces 220kW. One diesel in the form of a 2.0 TDI is sold.

FORD FIGO ENTERS ENTRY-LEVEL MARKET


    Ford’s new fun and fashionable compact car, Figo, has been developed and designed with the customer’s desires in mind. Figo derives its name from the colloquial Italian expression, which translated into English means ‘cool’. With its stylish design language and practical layout, the Figo is set to be a hit among South African consumers.  

    The new Figo is based on proven global small car architecture. It is available with a choice of two of Ford's class-leading, fuel-efficient engines, the 1.4-litre petrol Duratec with 62kW
    at 6000rpm and maximum torque of 127Nm at 4000rpm, and the 1.4-litre turbo diesel Duratorq making 51kW at 4000rpm, with torque of 160Nm at 2000rpm. All models are equipped with five-speed manual gearboxes. The chassis has been thoroughly retuned to suit market conditions with a more compliant suspension tailored for local road conditions.

    The exterior and interior styling of the new Figo are fresh and include bold interpretations of Ford's kinetic design philosophy.   

    “The Ford Figo is an exciting new introduction to the local market. It offers both style and practicality at an affordable price,” says Ford Marketing Manager, Ben Pillay. “It's small enough to weave through city traffic but big enough to accommodate a family.

    The space and practicality that define the Figo are more commonly associated with larger, more expensive vehicles rather than those typically found in the sub B-Value segment. The precise and responsive steering of the Figo instills confidence, while a fine balance between ride comfort and control is ensured through the optimized suspension design. There’s no shortage of big-car features either, the Figo features substantial technology including MP3/iPod connectivity, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and PATS (Passive Anti Theft System).

    Research has shown that there is a growing market of young buyers, particularly among women. The Figo offers a fantastic platform for them to enter the vehicle market, affordably without sacrificing on style and comfort.

    “While affordability and practicality are of great importance in this segment buyers are not willing to sacrifice on style and performance. The Figo offers a perfect combination of style and affordability,” adds Pillay.

    The design team focused on listening to customers prior to the initial design process ensuring that the final design of the Figo was representative of the desires of the market. Ford designers set out to create an attractive exterior coupled with a stylised and exquisitely crafted interior that offers generous proportions and delivers exceptional value for money.

    ''Creating appeal and communicating value to the customer starts with good design," says Emily Lai, colour and materials Design Manager for Figo.  "You want a car that reflects and makes a statement about you." 

    According to Lai, lowering the cost of a vehicle doesn't mean quality; luxury and character have to be excluded.  "You start with a quality baseline and build from there," she explains.

    The Figo's solid design, good stance and contemporary silhouette are refreshing features for a vehicle in its class.  "These features graduate Figo into the next class of vehicles, making it look like more car than you would expect for the money.  Small doesn't have to be boring," says Scott Strong, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa (APA) Design Director.

    Designers were careful to ensure that the final blue print shows Figo as a legitimate form of transportation.  Despite its youthful spirit, Figo is mature and smart.  "Some manufacturers make the mistake of thinking small cars have to look cute, almost toy like," he says. "Figo communicates solidness and safety, and drives like a car rather than a toy."

    Beyond design, Figo is all about lifestyle.  With features like CD with MP3 compatibility and 'Aux-in' port for iPod connectivity, the new Ford instantly connects with the energy and vitality of the buyer.  And with a proven, global chassis, Figo delivers a strong promise of reliability, functionality and performance.

    In addition to excellent fuel economy customers are offered further value for money through Ford’s ability to secure affordable spare parts and offer reliable servicing through its extensive dealer network. The Figo comes with a 4-year/120 000km fully comprehensive warranty and 5-year corrosion warranty. Service intervals are 20 000km for petrol derivatives and 15 000km for diesel.


    Ford Figo Pricing
    1.4 petrol Ambiente (R109 900)
    1.4 TDCi Trend (R125 000)
    1.4 petrol Trend (R125 000)

PORSCHE WILL BUILD 500KW 918 SPYDER


    Thanks to overwhelming public support and demand, Porsche has decided the 918 Spyder Concept will be brought into full production. The car is a concept first unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, and then at Auto China in Beijing as a study in fuel efficiency, coupled with high-performance.


    "Production of the 918 Spyder in a limited series proves that we are taking the right approach with Porsche Intelligent Performance featuring the combination of supreme performance and efficient drivetrain concepts,” said Michael Macht, President and Chairman of Porsche. “We will develop the 918 Spyder in Weissach and assemble it in Zuffenhausen. This is also a very important commitment to Germany as a manufacturing base."

    The concept 918 Spyder was powered by a 368kW V8 petrol engine, mixed with three electric motors pushing out 160kW. In total the 918 would be good for 528kW. Even if only 80% of this is achieved by the engineers the car will still be awesome. An average fuel consumption figure of 3 litres per 100km was announced.

    No deadline was released, but I do suspect we’ll see the car on the roads before the end of 2015. Price? Well, that is the R6 million question...

BMW Future Concept: BMW M1 Hommage

    BMW M1 Hommage Inil is, flown directly from Germany.

    Proper concept car, was a controversial appearance, with sharp lines had fallen body. Double grille typical of BMW is still a characteristic of the muzzle of the M1 Hommage, a dual-tech equivalent of HID headlights.

    BMW M1 Hommage BMW divisions created by Design Group to commemorate the 30 years existence of the BMW M1 car SupersPort in the year 2008, with the appearance of competence and creativity in the form of design that combines elements of emotional and technological innovation in a highly aesthetic packaging.
    Hommage M1 designed by Giorgio Giugiaro, who interpret the concept of an authentic mid-engines, which was reinforced with air vents on the hood, the grille on the rear glass and black cut line dividing the roof of the stern section.
    Unfortunately, BMW does not include engine specifications, and sophisticated features are pinned on this prototype car, but surely, the President Director of PT BMW Indonesia, said the presence of the BMW M1 Hommage not be separated from the spirit EfecientDynamics BMW with engine technology.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

TWO MAD AMG BENZES DETAILED


    New facelift versions of the Mercedes-Benz CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG have been detailed by their maker. But not only were the “faces” lifted, the engines and consequently performance, were also improved.

    Starting with the CL 63 AMG, which is the baby of the couple, it gets a brand new 5.5-.litre twin turbo V8 worth a stonking 400kW and pulling power worth 800Nm. Think about the old 5.4-litre supercharged from the E 55 AMG and recall that it made 350kW and 700Nm. Merc is claiming a 4.5 second time from 0 – 100km/h and a top speed of 250km/h. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed gearbox is standard and features three different driving modes for different driving circumstances.


    Goodies packed within the new CL 63 AMG are the COMAND system which comes with a 40GB hard drive, sat nav, an 11-speaker Harman/ Kardon sound system, a 6-CD/ DVD player, keyless go and a host of others you’d expect from such a car.

    Fitted for running gear are 20-inch AMG twin 5-spoke alloy wheels shod with 255/35 ZR20 rubber upfront and 275/35 ZR20 tyres at the rear. Four chrome tailpipes provide what should be an unforgettable soundtrack.

    The CL 65 AMG on the other hand, is probably as mute as its S 65 AMG sibling. That 6.0-litre twin turbo V12 remains but gets a power boost. For your money you get 463kW, up 13kW from the current car. Peak torque remains at 1001Nm and it’s available between 2000rpm and 4000rpm. A 5-speed AMG gearbox sends all the power to the rear wheels and places it on 255/35 ZR20 (front), 275/35 ZR20 (rear) high-performance tyres. A sprint time of 4.2 seconds is expected.

GEELY MOVES UP, PRICE STAYS DOWN


    Geely South Africa, official importer and distributor of the Chinese-built Geely cars, has announced the appointment of a new CEO and the introduction early next year of a brand new high spec A/B class entry-level car that will retail for under R90 000.

    The first new cars to be introduced by the new company recently reached dealer showroom floors and include the B/C segment Geely MK 1.5 and 1.6 Sedans for under R115 000 and a MK2 1.5 Hatch range at under R100 000.

    Geely, which means ‘lucky’ in Chinese, is the largest privately-run car manufacturer in China and earlier this month Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, the Shanghai-based parent company of Geely Motor Holdings, received approval from European Union regulators for Geely’s acquisition of Volvo from Ford Motor Company for $1.8-billion.

    Well-known motor industry executive John Jessup, 63, who has over 40 years of experience in the South African motor industry and has worked for companies like Volkswagen, General Motors, BMW and Nissan, has been appointed CEO of Geely South Africa.

    Geely SA is owned by the Hallmark Motor Group, a sister company of the JSE-listed transportation, supply chain and logistics service provider Cargo Carriers and the family owned Magic Group, who each hold 50%. Both companies have extensive motor  interests via  franchised dealerships of Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volkswagen, Nissan, Hyundai and General Motors.

    Hallmark has a large interest in GWM SA and has been instrumental in making it by far the most successful Chinese brand in South Africa to date.

    Jessup, a graduate of the University of Port Elizabeth, is a former marketing director of both BMW South Africa and Nissan South Africa.  A keen golfer, outdoor photographer and fitness enthusiast, Jessup feels he is in good shape to take on the challenge of building the Geely brand in South Africa.

    “We took over the existing Geely importer and distributor several months ago and are assembling a small but experienced team of professionals who are serious about making a success of the Geely brand in South Africa.

    “Geely is a highly respected brand in China, which is rapidly becoming the powerhouse in the global automotive world,” he said.  “We are keenly aware of the need to provide South African consumers with a quality product that is backed by professional and dependable after-sales service.  I am impressed with what I have seen of the Geely vehicles.  They are stylish, well-made and excellent value for money, with loads of features that you would not expect of vehicles in the price range.

    “We will be looking closely at the extensive range of Geely cars, SUVs and light commercials and we will enter one further major new market segment each year for the next three years.”

    Geely South Africa, whose new head office is being completed in Midrand together with a parts distribution centre, currently has 11 dealers and aims to have more than doubled this by the end of the year.

    STORY FROM PETER BURROUGHES COMMUNICATIONS

AUDI A7 UNVEILED, HEADED FOR SOUTH AFRICA


    The Audi A7 has been revealed. “The Audi what” someone might say? The Audi A7, a big four-door coupe with a length of almost 5 metres. Where does it fit in exactly? As the model badge points out, family-wise it sits between the A6 and the A8, but assumedly harbours sportier ambitions than both. Its main competitor is the Mercedes-Benz CLS but one or two of its models will also punch it out with the Porsche Panamera and the Aston Martin Rapide.


    Some hallmarks include things like LED headlights (not daytime running lights) which will be optional in some models, a mostly-aluminium body, those four doors, and strictly speaking, four seats, although the rear arrangement does not completely rule out someone sitting in the middle. The luggage area can swallow up to 1390 litres of stuff.

    Audi has given the interior lots of high-end appointments to increase passenger and driver comfort levels. Such includes the new MMI system with navigation and other goodies, an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system, ambient LED lighting, head-up display also an option and others.

    There will be four engines available at market launch. They range in power from 150kW to 220kW, both petrol and turbo diesel. Just look at the new A8 and even A6 for exactly what kind of engines we can expect. Does that include the 426kW RS 6 engine? Your guess is as good as mine. But given that pretty much every Audi model (except A3 and A8) has an RS version…

    Standard drive is a front-wheel setup, with quattro being offered for the more expensive versions.

    Audi South Africa is certainly bringing the A7 over in 2011, probably as a high-end family sports coupe, which means steeper-than-normal pricing and only the powerful engines.

MINI RETURNS TO WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP


    MINI is making a comeback on the international rally circuit. From 2011, the brand will compete at selected rounds of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and will go on to contest the entire season from 2012 onwards. This involvement is planned for several years.

    The car charged with this task is the MINI Countryman WRC, which is being developed by Prodrive, in close cooperation with MINI, and is based on the production model. The powerful heart of the racing car is a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged engine from BMW Motorsport. The car complies with the new Super2000 regulations put in place by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), which stipulate the use of turbo engines with 1,600 cc displacement and four-wheel drive combined with an increased emphasis on road relevant technologies. The result is a significant 25% reduction in overall costs. The first test drive for the MINI Countryman WRC, which will also be available to customer teams, is planned for autumn 2010.

    This decision sees MINI continue its success story in the world of rallying. In the 1960s, the MINI Cooper S caused a sensation with victories at the legendary Monte Carlo Rally. The company also tasted success on many occasions in the European Rally Championship. Having already demonstrated the sporty character of its models in many countries in the MINI CHALLENGE, the brand is now taking its presence in motorsport to a new level with the commitment to the WRC.

    Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing, says: “I am delighted MINI will be represented on one of the most popular stages in international motorsport. The success enjoyed on the rally circuit has made a vital contribution to the image of the brand. MINI customers have always shown great interest in motorsport. I am convinced we will add a few more chapters to our success story in rallying.

    The MINI Countryman provides an excellent basis, from which to create a competitive racing car for the world championship. In Prodrive, we have a strong and experienced partner. We will work hard together over the coming months to ensure we get the project on track right from the word go.” “This is a very exciting new motorsport programme,” said Prodrive Chairman, David Richards. “During the 1960s MINI captured the imagination of the world when the tiny car took on the might of V8 powered Fords and won what was then one of the toughest motorsport events, the 4000km Monte Carlo rally. I believe our new MINI will become a firm favourite of the latest generation of rally fans, just as it is adored by its millions of owners across the world. We already have a significant number of confirmed customer orders for the new MINI rally car with the first deliveries scheduled for the start of the 2011 season.”

    Prodrive has been working on developing the MINI Countryman WRC since early 2009. The company was formed in 1984 by Richards, who won the World Rally Championship as co-driver to Ari Vatanen (FI) three years earlier. Based in Banbury (GB), Prodrive has developed into a leading independent company in the motorsport and automobile sector under Richards' guidance, and today employs over 500 staff. Prodrive's many successes currently include six overall victories in the World Rally Championship, five titles in the British Touring Car Championship and three class victories at the Le Mans 24 Hours (FR).


    BMW was present when the World Rally Championship made its debut back in 1973. Achim Warmbold (DE) and Jean Todt (FR) tasted victory in their BMW 2002 at the Alpenfahrt Rally in Austria. However, MINI's tradition in this discipline stretches back even further: Pat Moss (GB) clinched the first victory with the MINI 850 at the 1959 Mini Miglia National Rally. MINI ultimately enjoyed its finest hours at the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965 and 1967: the MINI Cooper S celebrated three overall victories at the most iconic rallying event in the world.


    Paddy Hopkirk (IR, 1964), Timo Mäkinen (FI, 1965) and Rauno Aaltonen (FI, 1967) joined the list of winners at this prestigious event. In 1965, “Rally Professor” Aaltonen also won the European Rally Championship. Tony Ambrose (GB) and Mäkinen finished second and third to round off an excellent overall result for the MINI Cooper S. In addition, MINI drivers also enjoyed many individual wins at renowned rallies throughout Europe. The last BMW World Rally Championship victory was achieved in 1987 in Corsica by Bernard Béguin (FR) driving a BMW M3 which was built and run by Prodrive.


    From 2011, over 40 years down the line, the MINI Countryman WRC will be charged with adding further chapters to this success story. It bridges the gap between the classic MINI concept and a contemporary Sports Activity Vehicle. The brand’s first model to feature four doors and a wide-opening tailgate, it offers more space – which can be used in a wide variety of ways – to go with its raised seating position and optimised ride comfort. Plus, the “go-kart” feeling for which MINI is a byword has been preserved and takes on a new dimension with the optional MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. The MINI Countryman expresses the defining virtues of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and the scope for customisation – and does so in an absorbingly
    individual way.


    The next step down from the racing version is the MINI Cooper S Countryman. With its twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection now complemented by fully variable valve management, the 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the range topping model offers by far the best balance between output and fuel consumption in its displacement class. The engine generates an impressive 135kW and allows the MINI Cooper S Countryman to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds. Furthermore, the MINIMALISM concept sees wide-ranging technology designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions – such as Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display and the need-based operation of ancillary components – fitted as standard and in model-specific combinations. 

    The MINI Cooper S Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman can be ordered as an option with MINI ALL4 permanent all-wheel drive. Here, an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions up to 50%of the drive is sent to the rear wheels, in extreme situations as much as 100%. The result is a new, traction-led expression of the agile handling for which MINI is famed.

    STORY BY BMW

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Speed Holes



    This Fiero-based Countach replica has a novel design solution for the lack of air getting to the front mounted radiator – just fill the entire front hood with holes. I suppose it matches the louvered 25th Anniverary look – just don’t drive it in the rain.

    PS: The title is a reference to “The Simpsons” episode “Homie the Clown” – been watching a lot of old Simpsons episodes lately.

Great Flaming Corollas






    The Toyota Corolla is not exactly an engaging vehicle. Seeing one does not cause pre-teen boys to take chase, so why it would form the basis of riceburner I’m not sure. Especially a fog-lights-lacking low end automatic. If there’s anything good to say, it’s that a better car was saved from being the canvas for these unfortunate modifications. This car is a bit of a cross genre piece. For the most part it’s a ricer with a carbon fibre spoiler, headlights and hideous projectile taillights, as well as some very “Hot Wheels” flames applied to it’s sides. A couple features set it apart though, including the “aluminum pie plate” dubs and a giant naked angel airbrushed on the hood. I think it’s an angel – could be a skank lying on top of a giant dove. Plus there’s bonus hidden fug, as lifting the hood reveals a menacing visage painted on the underside of the hood. I especially like how all three pieces of artwork – the flames, the airbrushing and the hidden face – all clash with each other and are seemingly unrelated.

Attack of the Clones: Renault ArEight



    The Renault DeZir concept is meant to show a new design language for Renault. Apparently that design language is very similar to the one that spawned the Audi R8.

RAIKKONEN HAPPY TO RACE AT HOME


    For 60 years now, the 1000 Lakes Rally – which then became the Rally Finland – has been a classic fixture for all the crews. The event is often nicknamed the ‘Jyväskylä Grand Prix’ and it has featured seven times in the top 10 fastest rallies ever held in the history of the World Rally Championship. The quickest Rally Finland took place in 2005, with an average speed of 122.86 kph recorded on the event.

    For the eighth round of the season, Citroën Racing has made some adjustments to its team nominations. Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia join the Citroën Total World Rally Team for the first time, while Dani Sordo and Marc Marti form part of the Citroën Junior Team as team mates to Kimi Räikkönen and Kaj Lindström. The Spanish crew will also be nominated to score points for the Citroën Junior Team in Japan and Great Britain this year.

    “The objective of the Citroën Junior Team is to allow young drivers to perform to the best of their abilities at the highest level,” pointed out Team Manager Benoit Nogier. “We have seen this goal being achieved with Sébastien Ogier and we are very happy for him. His results reflect the hard work that the entire team has put in since the start of the season. We hope to be at the same level with Dani, so that he too can show what he is capable of.”

    Dani Sordo, aged 27, is currently sixth in the World Championship standings and has finished on the podium twice this year, thanks to third place in Portugal and second in Bulgaria. The Spaniard looks upon his new association with the Citroën Junior Team as a fresh opportunity. “I’ll be feeling less pressure,” he said. “By switching teams, I won’t always have to drive with the fundamental need to score manufacturer points for Citroën at the back of my mind. I’m going to concentrate on just doing my own rally and delivering the best performance possible.”

    For the first time in his short World Rally Championship career, Kimi Räikkönen will be starting an event that he has already contested last year. In 2009, the 2007 Formula One World Champion showed some highly impressive pace before unfortunately going off the road.

    “We were able to get back up to speed on gravel thanks to a good pre-Finland test,” said Kimi. “Those testing kilometres are absolutely vital on a rally like this one. The experience from last year is certainly going to help, but there is such a performance gap between a Super 2000 machine and a World Rally Car that it’s almost like driving a different rally. I’m really looking forward to getting started. When I was in Formula One, I never got the chance to race in front of my home crowd. I know that there are going to be loads of fans out in service and by the side of the stages. For me, this is a real highlight of the season!”

F-Concept Daihatsu: Daihatsu Car Cheap | Smart Car

    After a long-awaited end of a concept car that is M-Concept Daihatsu finally appeared in 2010.

    F-Concept appearances at prestigious automotive show this is the first appearance of the F-Concept in the world or the world primary.

Monday, July 26, 2010

CHEVROLET CRUZE ADDS DIESEL VARIANT


    General Motors South Africa has announced the addition of a 2.0 litre turbo diesel powered variant to the popular Chevrolet Cruze range. The single overhead camshaft, 16-valve, intercooled turbo diesel – with electronic control of the turbocharger – produces 110kW at 4000rpm with maximum torque of 320Nm delivered at just 2000rpm. Drive is via a 5-speed manual transmission.

    Significantly the Cruze 2.0D LT delivers these numbers together with exceptional fuel economy. In tests conducted by GM development engineers, fuel consumption was as low as 5.7 l/100 km for the combined cycle. Low emissions are also a feature of this engine with just 150gm per kilometre of CO2 produced in normal driving conditions.

    The Cruze 2.0D LT joins the Cruze 1.6 L, 1.6 LS , 1.8 LS, and the 1.8 LT petrol derivatives in a five-model range in the high volume ‘C’ segment of the passenger car market. The Chevrolet Cruze offers excellent value right through the range from the base level ‘L’ specification which includes: Alloy wheels, ABS brakes, power windows front and rear, power side mirrors, air conditioner. Central locking and front and side airbag protection for front seat occupants.

    With its ‘LT’ specification level, the new Cruze 2.0D LT expands on this to offer a full suite of luxury features including: Full airbag protection including curtain side airbags (six airbags); front loading six-CD sound system; leather covered steering wheel with satellite audio controls; leather seat covers; dual-zone climate-control air conditioning; rear park assist; rain sensing windscreen wipers; cruise control; and auto lights on function. Wheels on this model are 7JX17 inch alloys fitted with 215/50R17-91V tyres.

    Value for money and exceptional build quality define the Chevrolet Cruze. Overall economy of operation and highly competitive parts pricing provide a formula for a low total cost of operation over the life of the vehicle while the solid global reputation of the iconic Chevrolet brand adds an element of security in ownership. Service intervals of 15 000 kilometres, a three-year/60 000 kilometre service plan, and a five-year/120 000 kilometre warranty together with roadside assistance complete the value loop.


    Chevrolet Cruze 2.0D LT Pricing
    R261 100

SENSATIONAL FORD FOCUS ST SLATED FOR PARIS 2010


    After officially unveiling the next-generation Focus, Ford has expectedly come under scrutiny from fans who want to know what the ST version will look like and pack. I’m also one of those, and so are the folks at AutoExpress in the UK.

    The latter have apparently uncovered information that confirms that the Focus ST will break cover at the 2010 Paris Motor Show in October. That’s all very well and mouth-watering, but what you really want to know is, how much power is it packing, right? Me too!


    Other than the Ford team, no one can really answer that question. But speculate we can, and here at IN4RIDE that is one of our specialties. Give that the current generation uses a Volvo-sourced 2.5-litre five cylinder turbo worth 166kW Ford would be within expectation if they upped that even slightly. That means at least 180kW, a good number if you consider that the upcoming Renault Megane RS is 184kW worth…


    Note: picture used is of normal new Focus

VW'S CHAMPS FORCED OUT OF SASOL RALLY

    It was a short and not so sweet affair for Motorite Racing’s Evan Hutchison and Elvene Coetzee in the national championship Volkswagen Rally in the Eastern Cape over the weekend.  The reigning class A7 champions were forced out of the fifth round of the Sasol SA Rally Championship when their VW Polo developed gearbox problems and they were only able to complete one special stage.

    “It was an unfortunate - and much too quick - end to an event we were really looking forward to and which we were confident would deliver a good result,” said Hutchison.
     


    “This is a very demanding sport, on both the crew and the car, and mechanical problems are part of the game.  It’s tough on all of us – driver, co-driver, technicians and sponsors - when something like this happens.  A lot of work goes into preparing the car for each event and by the time we take our place on the start line we are all psyched up and ready to give of our best.  There are always high expectations, so it’s a big let down to record a DNF, particularly after just one special stage.

    “With this being our first year in the premier S2000 class, we need as much seat time as we can get to bridge the big gap that exists between class A7 and where the big boys play.  We’ve been making good progress, but we still have a long way to go and it doesn’t help to miss out on nine racing stages as we did this weekend.”

    The 419km event (265 liaison and 164 special stages), held over two days in the Port Elizabeth area and including stages in the Longmore Forest, was as tough as ever with just 25 of the original 42 starters making it to the finish.

    The winners with a total time of 98 min 45.8 sec were Johnny Gemmell and Drew Sturrock in a factory Toyota Auris, who finished just 1.5 seconds ahead of the factory VW Polo of Enzo Kuun and Guy Hodgson.  Third, a further 10.5 seconds in arrears, were VW team-mates Jan Habig and Ralph Pitchford.

    The next round of the Sasol Rally Championship is the Osram Rally in the Barkly East area on August 21.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Modified Toyota Yaris | Custom Toyota Yaris

    Toyota Yaris car owners are Surya, not only put a body kit origin like most of the cars modifications, but the entire bodinya formed from steel plate.

    Entry into the cabin, then extreme nuance is clearly visible. The most obvious course of two joknya using acrylic material-fin tunas. But a strong guaranteed, and will not be broken when occupied.



    When you're finished carving chisels affairs of the body, then doused with airbrush patterned graphic depicting sharp dynamic speed with five kinds of colors.

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