ALSTAR: New Contingency Awards

The SHOULDICE ALSTAR Series announces new competitor contingency awards

The contingency awards for the SHOULDICE ALSTAR Series are still growing. Leitch Performance Engines Provider of $100.00 Cash Award to the highestfinishing car in the Feature(s) - with a spec ALSTAR aluminum head. For more info on Leitch Performance Engines visit: www.leitchperformanceengines.com

Also Mike McColl of McColl Racing has announced he will be contributing to the ALSTAR Series with the “McColl Podium Award” for the top 3 finishers in the 100 lap feature events, with first place receiving $100.00 bonus, and both 2nd and 3rd place winning $75.00 each. For more info on McColl Racing visit: www.mccollracing.com

See ALSTAR chedule: http://www.alstarseries.com/ALSTAR_Officia/2006SHOULDICE.html

Be sure and book your accommodations close to Steelback Sauble Speedway for the SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Super Series weekend events at the beach:
http://www.saublespeedway.com/Sauble_Speedwa/Places_to_stay.html

For more info on the SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Series visit: www.alstarseries.com

Lotus AFD Concept

Lotus Cars presents an all new Elise based pick-up concept that is intended to go in production later in 2006

Press Release: The Lotus AFD is an Elise-derived flatbed concept that seeks to secure a slice of the ever-growing worldwide market for sportscar-derived pickup trucks.

Utilising a Briggs and Stratton pull-start diesel engine, uniquely supercharged by Lotus's own engineers, the AFD is the first Lotus to marry advanced 4-wheel drive technology with the Lotus design philosophy of 'performance through lightweight'. A useful 5kg payload, together with an optional towing hitch offering a further 10kg of load-hauling capacity, ensures the new Lotus will be equally at home carrying a small bag of sugar as an expanded polystyrene surfboard.

With carbon fibre roof rails and perforated aluminium bull bars ensuring the new Elise derivative looks the part without compromising performance, hopes are high that 0-60mph acceleration is less than 3 seconds, and will have flatbed fans reaching for their chequebooks.

An active payload management system, linked to the engine's oil pressure control module, optimises ride and handling round even the sharpest bend, while big chunky tyres increase ground clearance to an all-terrain-conquering 4 inches.

Trevor Houghton-Berry, Lotus Head of Commercial Operations looked to the future 'The AFD is our first move into the lucrative LCV market and certainly lives up to the Lotus philosophy of 'change the rules'.

We like trucking and we like to truck!'

Mark O'Shaughnessy, Lotus USA Sales and Marketing Director commented, 'We can no longer ignore Lotus's big opportunity in the pickup market - we want a slice of the action and are gunning for a 0.0026% market share this year and 0.0027% next. The AFD will be known as the F1.50 stateside and we are set to take the market by storm. 200 Lotus Elise F1.50's in the first year? Bring them on

Technorati Tags: April+Fools+Day, autos, auto+news, press+release, Lotus+Elise

A1 Team Canada - Carpentier solid in China practice

Official Practice, Round 11 - A1 Grand Prix of Nations, Shanghai, China

A1 Team Canada's Patrick Carpentier racked up a total of 40 practice laps today at the Shanghai
International Circuit in China as he prepares to compete in the 11th and final round of the inaugural
A1 Grand Prix of Nations this Sunday, 2nd April.

Making his third consecutive start for A1 Team Canada, following points scoring runs in both Mexico
and the USA, Carpentier's trip to China is a first for the Québec-born racer but he was quickly up to
speed in the first of two hour-long practice sessions on the 5.45km Shanghai circuit, setting the fifth
fastest time with a 1m52.989s lap.

While the weather looked somewhat menacing during the second session, Patrick kept Canada in the
front-running pack, setting the seventh fastest time as he continued to familiarize himself with the track
searching for a balance of grip for the corners and speed for the long straights. With a changeable
forecast set for tomorrow's qualifying runs, the team was satisfied with today's running in the dry.

Patrick Carpentier:
"I'm very happy with today's practice results. For me it's a large improvement and we're just four
tenths off the fastest cars. It's a beautiful, fast circuit and I'm looking forward to racing here on
Sunday. Our objective is to qualify in the top-ten so then there will be ten less cars for me to pass from
previous races! We've started the weekend well and if we keep the momentum going we'll be up with
the leaders by the end of it!"

Official Practice 1
1 Mexico Salvador Duran 1:52.513
2 Malaysia Alex Yoong 1:52.721
3 France Nicolas Lapierre 1:52.733
4 Ireland Michael Devaney 1:52.919
5 CANADA Patrick Carpentier 1:52.989
6 Australia Ryan Briscoe 1:53.229
7 Great Britain Darren Manning 1:53.314
8 South Africa Stephen Simpson 1:53.452
Official Practice 2
1 France Nicolas Lapierre 1:51.972
2 Great Britain Darren Manning 1:52.079
3 Mexico Salvador Duran 1:52.321
4 Australia Ryan Briscoe 1:52.355
5 Malaysia Alex Yoong 1:52.371
6 Ireland Michael Devaney 1:52.376
7 CANADA Patrick Carpentier 1:52.388
8 China Tengyi Jiang 1:52.436

Sunday's A1GP races can be viewed live in Canada or later on demand at www.a1gp.com
ENDS - www.a1teamcan.com

From: A1 Team Canada Media Relations: Stuart Morrison - PR Manager

EU & US file WTO complaint on China over auto parts

The United States and the European Union, initiated a World Trade Organization complaint on Thursday against China, alleging that Beijing is unfairly blocking foreign-made auto parts.

EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson said: "Consultations will allow us to clarify the legal issues and find a mutually satisfactory solution. It remains my strong preference and intention to seek an amicable solution to this issue".

A statement from the office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) said China's taxes on imported auto parts "discourage automobile manufacturers in China from using imported auto parts in the assembly of vehicles." The USTR said this is inconsistent with China's WTO commitments.

The EU first raised the issue of its tariffs on car parts in 2004. The EU requested action to address the problem at the EU-China Joint Trade Committee in October 2005. The European Union had then urged China to eliminate trade restrictions harming companies from Arcelor SA to Volkswagen AG and threatened to bring its first World Trade Organization complaint against the communist nation.

What is the issue?

The EU believes that Chinese tariff laws for spare auto parts are WTO-incompatible. Chinese rules apply the tariffs for "whole vehicles" to the import of spare parts making up 60% or more of the value of a final vehicle. The EU believes that this may contravene China's WTO obligations not to impose obligatory "local content" rules: to avoid the "whole car" tariff rates a car-maker has to source 40% or more of the spare parts by value in China. The EU believes it may constitute an internal tax on imported goods - because the tariff is levied on a finished product constructed with imported parts and the same rates are not applied to cars produced with local spare parts.

This can be problematic for EU producers in China who are not able to import parts from their own factories in Europe without unfair tariffs. The EU has about 20-25% of the car production market in China.

What does China say?

China claims that the measures are designed to avoid circumvention (ie, the prevention of the importing whole cars as spare parts to avoid the higher tariff rates for whole cars). However the WTO has found in the past that the objective of measures does not justify their form - and in this case the measures appear to the EU to be WTO-incompatible. At the time of its WTO accession, China committed itself not to treat parts as whole cars.

What happens now?

The request for consultations has been filed with the WTO in Geneva today. China has 10 days to respond to the request and is obligated by WTO rules to enter in consultations in good faith within 30 days. If the issue cannot be resolved in consultations within 60 days then the parties have the option of requesting a WTO panel to hear and rule on the dispute.

What does this mean?

The chances are that the EU & US will win this case, thus meaning that American & European automanufacturers will be able to create a super low price car part bin, by shopping from the cheapest possible sources around world. Then, they will go to the world’s lowest paid labor hand country -China, assembling these parts into a real car....Genius

Technorati Tags: Autos, auto+news, automotive, business,

Carhartt™ Racing Has Resigned American, Marc Miller for 2006 CASCAR Season

Michigan driver will compete in limited schedule in the RaceSportz/DJK Racing Carhartt Dodge Charger #8

Courtesy Racesportz – Karen Barsoski

DEARBORN, MI (March 28, 2006) --- Holland, MI native, Marc Miller, will return as the driver of the #8 Carhartt Racing entry for the 2006 CASCAR Super Series. The sole American in the series will pilot the RaceSportz/DJK Racing prepared Carhartt Dodge Charger in a limited schedule in 2006.

“I am very proud to be back representing Carhartt again this year,” said Miller. “This will be my fourth season with Carhartt as our primary sponsor and they have been terrific to us as we continue to grow our program. We have essentially a new car coming out of the DJK Racing shop that should be right there with the best in the series. It is now important to get out and start testing as soon as possible.”

The all-new Carhartt #8 Dodge Charger was debuted at the 2006 Toronto Sportsmen’s Show this past weekend at Exhibition Place in Toronto. The car showcases an aggressive new paint scheme for 2006 and was a very popular addition to the Carhartt, Inc. booth that saw over 125,000 spectators pass by over the five days of the show.

“We felt it would be a great opportunity to have our Carhartt CASCAR on display at this show,” said Field Marketing Specialist for Carhartt, Jason Reynolds. “Some of Carhartt’s most loyal customers are avid sportsmen as well as race fans and I think we even under-estimated the response from having the car on display. We are looking forward to having Marc back in the seat this season and hope to see him put the Carhartt Racing machine up front.”

The season will see Miller and his team compete in some of the largest events on the CASCAR schedule including the hugely popular Grand Prix of Edmonton ( www.grandprixedmonton.com), the GP of Trois Rivieres (www .gp3r.com) and four additional venues that are expected to draw over 300,000 spectators combined.

Spiering and Eaton Road Warrior continue to lead Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified Shootout standings

Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

JORDAN STATION, ON (March 28, 2006) – Carl Spiering continued his control in the points chase for the Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified Shootout at the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals in the International Hot Rod (IHRA) eMax Drag Racing Series.

Spiering, driving the Eaton Electrical Supercharged Pro Modified Chevrolet Corvette at San Antonio Raceway qualified in the tenth position and maintained a 20-point lead over defending Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified World Champion, Mike Castellana from Westbury, NY.

The Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified Shootout will be contested in Martin, MI, during the Torco Race Fuels Northern Nationals.

Team Royal Shines in Kitchener Sun - Hayden Perfect!

Courtesy Mark Royal

The CSRA series made its annual trek south to Kitchener's Chicopee ski hill, and the weather was as expected, warm! Saturdays events were marred by some rainy weather, but the facilities at Chicopee allowed fans to view from inside and covered porches. Team Royal Distributing / Factory Recreation boys were hungry to get back on the track after two weeks off. The Royal Ski Doo Rev's found their familiar spots on Saturdays qualifiers, with Joey Sagan running firsts and seconds all day in his Pro Stock and Semi Pro Open heats. Pro Iain Hayden was right back where he left off, winning all his Saturday qualifiers.

On Sunday the weather was warm and sunny and the huge Kitchener crowd was in for some great racing. Semi Pro Joey Sagan retained his solid points lead in the 440 Stock class with strong second place run. In Semi Pro Open Joey fought hard with a charging Open class field to come home third, with a very impressive ride. Pro racer Hayden got excellent starts from the Wayne Legge tuned machines in both Stock 440 and the headlining Pro Open class and never looked back, nailing down wins in both classes.

Iain was able to maintain his points leads in both classes. Hayden is now a perfect 14 for 14 on the season in CSRA finals. The last race is a National coming up this weekend at Craighurst, plan to attend! Visit http://www.snowcross.com/ for details. Watch all the top racers battle it out for the titles.

Team Royal thanks Factory Recreation, Ski-Doo, FXR clothing, Kimpex, Ipone lubricants, HMK boots, Stud Boy Traction, Tekvest, and Spy Eyewear.

2007 Lexus LS Hybrid to Make World Debut at New York

Lexus will unveil its all-new LS luxury hybrid sedan next month at the New York International Automobile Show. Arriving next year, Lexus's hybrid version of the upcoming model-year 2007 LS sedan will introduce impressive new standards in styling, engineering, technology, safety and performance.

Technorati Tags: Lexus+LS+Hybrid, New+York+International+Auto+Show, press+release

Saab BioPower Hybrid Concept

Making its world premiere at the Stockholm Motor Show today, the Saab BioPower Hybrid Concept delivers zero CO₂ emissions with enhanced performance by combining the use of pure bioethanol fuel and electric power generation for the first time.

Packing formidable pulling power from its 260 bhp (191 kW) 2.0-litre turbo BioPower engine and 53 kW electric motors, the BioPower Hybrid Concept is equipped with an with automatic transmission accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, a substantial improvement against 8.8 seconds for the equivalent petrol model. Even more impressive is 80 to 120 km/h acceleration on 'kick-down' in only 5.5 seconds.

The all-aluminum 2.0-litre BioPower engine is modified to run on pure E100 bioethanol fuel, giving zero CO₂ exhaust emissions, and operates in tandem with the electrical power system. This offers fuel-saving stop/start functionality, torque boosting electric power assistance on demand, an electric-only 'Zero Mode' for city driving and regenerative braking.

It should be mentioned that the Saab BioPower Hybrid Concept is the first project to be announced under a joint investment programme between General Motors R&D (Research and Development) and the Swedish Government.
Technorati Tags: Saab+Concept, BioPower+Hybrid+Concept, autos, auto+news, images, pictures, press+release, Stockholm+Motor+Show

STOLEN: Cdn. Vintage Modified Car & Trailer

Mike Morrison, driver of the #4 CVM sent me a note to spread the word that Ron Easton's Black 20' enclosed Shadow Series Pace American Trailer was stolen last night.

Inside it was the #12 Lucus Oil Canadian Vintage Modified (formerly Jen Jarvis' car).

The licence plate on the trailer is: B99 78S.

The VIN # on the trailer is: 40LWB2022XP052727

According to Mike, the trailer was stored in Oakville, Ontario.

There is a contact page on the Lucas Oil CVM site if you have any information about this theft. If you see the trailer or car, please contact the authorities.

Dirty talker... one more outburst like that and he'll be on probation!

Obviously, Mr. Manion never heard George Carlin's routine about the seven words you can't say on TV ....

****

Family advocates are revving up against Fox Television and NASCAR after a driver's crew chief uttered the S-word during a nationally broadcast race Sunday.

The obscene word was aired during a car-to-crew conversation between driver Martin Truex, Jr. and his crew chief, Kevin Manion, at the Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tenn.

A frustrated Manion told his driver, "We missed the set-up today. It (the car) was a piece of s---." (To hear the audio, click here)

... story continued here.

- By Joe Kovacs© 2006 WorldNetDaily.

Carl Spiering’s day ends with crash at IHRA Texas event

Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

MARION, TX (March 26, 2006) – Carl Spiering’s day ended abruptly Sunday when he crashed the Carl Spiering Motorsports Eaton Electrical Supercharged Pro Modified Chevrolet Corvette in the quarter finals at the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals in the International Hot Rod (IHRA) eMax Drag Racing Series at San Antonio Raceway San Antonio, Texas.

In the second round of Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified eliminations, Spiering, 41, of Jordan Station, ON took on number six qualifier Kenny Lang from Grande Pointe, MB with a 1953 Chevrolet Corvette. Lang had the quicker light and was out in front at the 660-foot marker.

But after that, Spiering pulled ahead and was out in front when they passed the 1,000-foot marker. Spiering's car drifted left out of the groove and came close to hitting the outside wall of the left lane. As he tried to get back into the groove, Spiering crossed over the center line after the finish line, running over to the other side of the track and hit the wall on the outside of the right lane. The cars did not hit but Lang waited to deploy his parachutes, making sure he got by Spiering's car, and by not getting the chutes open early enough, he coasted into the sand at the end of the track.

Spiering ran a 6.299-second, 207.98 mph pass for the win. With his car crossing the center line after the finish line, he was declared winner of the round. Spiering was unable to make the call for the semi final round, which gave the win into the finals to the 1963 Corvette of Tommy D'Aprile’s from Port Charlotte FL.

Spiering defeated Jason Hamstra from Demotte, IN in the first round of eliminations with a 6.179-second, 231.64 mph run. Hamstra was in the field as an alternate for number two qualifier Scott Cannon Jr from Lyman, SC who Spiering was scheduled to run before Cannon crashed in the final qualifying session Saturday night.

Glen Kerunsky from Priddis, AB won the Torco Race Fuels Pro Modified Championship at the Amalie Oil Texas Nationals over Tommy D'Aprile from Port Charlotte, FL.

The next International Hot Rod (IHRA) eMax Drag Racing Series event of the season the 36th Annual Spring National presented by Advance Auto Parts will take place April 21-23 at Rockingham Dragway in Rockingham, North Carolina. For information, call 910.582.3400 or visit http://www.rockinghamdragway.com/

Parts Pro sponsors PMRA Crew Chief of the Race Award

Courtesy Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

AJAX, ON (March 24, 2006) – With “A Passion for Performance”, Parts Pro, the fastest-growing automotive performance parts distribution network in North America, will be sponsoring the Crew Chief of the Race Award at each PMRA series event for 2006, the Pro Modified Racing Association is pleased to announce.

“Parts Pro continues to bring you the hottest products in the high performance industry,” explained Kevin Dundas, General Manager of Karbelt Speed & Custom, the Eastern Canadian Parts Pro Distribution center. “We will present the Parts Pro "A Passion for Performance" Crew Chief of the Race Award at each of the six-event drag racing series in 2006. The award was specifically designed to reward the Crew Chief and the team of individuals that supports them.”

Parts Pro Performance Centers has 40 independently owned retailers in Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes who provide immediate product knowledge and the best quality parts and accessories directly from their inventories or next day from their distribution centers. No other distribution process can deliver the proper parts quicker to its customers.

“It is really exciting to have the Eastern Canadian Parts Pro dealers support the PMRA,” stated Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Operations of the PMRA. “The PMRA series sponsorship programs continue to grow. It says a lot about our teams and the venues they will perform at.”
Parts Pro has the most popular performance parts and accessories for today, as well as tomorrow's street and high performance cars, trucks, and sport compact performance vehicles.

For more information, visit Parts Pro Performance Centers at http://www.partspro.ca/

McIntosh up to speed in World Series by Renault testing

Courtesy Stuart Morrison Public Relations

Barcelona, Spain (March 24, 2006) – Sean McIntosh’s first official outing for Team KTR in the World Series by Renault ended successfully yesterday with the 20-year-old Canadian posting the sixth fastest time, from a field of 30 cars, in testing at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya.

The two-day Spanish test marked the start of Sean’s regular 2006 commitments following a series of impressive performances over the winter, including a memorable last-to-first victory in Indonesia, racing for A1 Team Canada in the A1 Grand Prix of Nations.

Learning the characteristics of his new-spec. 425bhp, 3.5-litre Dallara Renault and the 4.73km Circuit de Catalunya, home to the Spanish Grand Prix, Sean spent Wednesday’s sessions getting to grips with both while forging his relationship with the Belgium-based crew from Team KTR.

Running predominantly on used Michelin’s, Sean’s attempts to bang in a ‘flier’ on fresh rubber towards the end of the afternoon were thwarted by a series of red flags but the 2005 Formula Renault UK Vice- Champion was suitably pleased with the progress made on day one.

Thursday’s sessions allowed Sean to further settle into his new surroundings and he reeled off a total of 60 laps over the two sessions. Setting a fastest time of 1m27.714s in the morning he then bettered this with a 1m27.624s in the afternoon to finish the test sixth overall on the timesheets and a place ahead of KTR team-mate, Britain’s Robbie Kerr.

Sean McIntosh: “We made real progress throughout Thursday and the afternoon session in particular was pretty tidy. I’m starting to develop a relationship with my engineer, Paul Heath. These things always take a bit of time but I think we’re starting to click already which is encouraging. I’m getting a feel for the car now and can start to make changes to it so I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do next time out at Le Mans.”

Kurt Mollekens – Team Manager: “Overall I’m quite satisfied with this week’s Barcelona test. By the first race meeting at Zolder we want to aim higher but there were factors to consider for both Robbie and Sean, chiefly neither had tested the new World Series by Renault car and they hadn’t been to Barcelona before, a fairly challenging circuit physically. Our aim for this test was for both drivers to learn as much as possible and go for quality running, we’ll hit qualifying mode at a later stage. We’re all happy as a team, the guys set competitive times and we’ll look for more of the same when we go to Le Mans.”

The historic Le Mans Circuit in France hosts the next pre-season test, 1st-2nd April, before the World Series by Renault kicks off in earnest with the opening two rounds at Zolder in Belgium, 29th-30th April. ENDS For further information or image requests please contact Stuart Morrison Public Relations: Tel: +1 514 684 3253 / Cell: +1 514 945 3253 / Email: stuart@sm-pr.com World Series by Renault Official Website: www.renault-sport.com/en/world_series Team KTR Website: http://www.ktr.be/

ROCKETSPORTS RACING TO RUN ANTONIO PIZZONIA IN LONG BEACH FOR CHAMP CAR SEASON OPENER

Courtesy Heather Haupt

EAST LANSING, Mich. (March 29, 2006) After a long off-season with all efforts predominately on securing a solid sponsorship package and competitive driver line-up, Rocketsports Racing is proud to announce that Antonio Pizzonia has been signed to drive the #8 Rocketsports Ford-Cosworth/Lola/Bridgestone Champ Car in Long Beach with sponsorship announcements to be forthcoming.

The overall performance of Rocketsports Racing throughout the 2005 season led to Timo Glock s consistency and running for Rookie-of-the-Year honors. Rocketsports has chosen to run another rookie, but rookie is no way to describe this young, vibrant Brazilian. Pizzonia is a well-experienced open-wheel racer. He has a solid racing pedigree that has brought him to the ranks of Formula 1. The 25-year-old joins Rocketsports with great anticipation to extend his racing resume by entering the Champ Car World Series in search for a new challenge in his extensive career.

Pizzonia will rendezvous with the team in Houston on Saturday, April 1 for some more time in his Lola in preparation to make his first Champ Car start in Long Beach, California for the Champ Car season opener, April 7-9.

I am very happy about the opportunity that Rocketsports has given to me, said Pizzonia on his upcoming test and making his debut in Champ Car. The test this weekend will be very important for me and the team as we prepare for the first race. I obviously need to get more familiar with the car, as it was my first time in the cockpit of a Champ Car when I tested with the team in Houston a couple of weeks ago. So the extra time will be good for me to learn more and really prepare for Long Beach. I am really looking forward to Long Beach; it will be a new experience for me, a new ride, and a new challenge. That is what I was looking for and I am thrilled to be with the Rocketsports team. I really enjoyed working with them in Houston when I tested with them, so I am looking forward to working with them again.

Pizzonia started racing karts when he was 10 and after winning the local championships he began to commute to Sao Paulo on the weekends to race in more competitive Sao Paulo championships. By the time he was 15, he had won the Brazilian national title. This led to the decision to go to the United States to compete in the Barber Dodge series and then in 1997 he moved to Britain.

OK, let me get this straight. You're offering me THIS piece of land for 48 years at $750Gs a year? Where do I sign?

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. March 29, 2006 International Speedway Corporation (NASDAQ/NM: ISCA; OTC Bulletin Board: ISCB) ("ISC") today announced that, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Daytona International Speedway, LLC ( Daytona ), it has amended its lease agreement with the Daytona Beach Racing and Recreational Facilities District (the District ).

The amended lease (the DIS lease ) extends the relationship between Daytona and the District through November 7, 2054. The annual cash lease payment, excluding applicable sales taxes, of $500,000 for 2007 will increase every five years, resulting in an average annual cash payment over the 48-year (2007-2054) period of approximately $750,000.

The original lease provided for annual cash payments of $10,000 per year through 2007, increasing to $20,000 per year from 2008 through 2032....

Just got off the phone....

... with Circuit Gilles Villeneuve (514-397-INDY). Asked the lady about the weekend schedule for the ChampCar event at the end of August and how I might buy tickets.

She said that event has yet to be confirmed. There are no tickets for sale.

She chuckled when I told her that it's on the ChampCar website at www.cart.com

She said there is no schedule for announcing whether or not the race will take place.

Might not want to give a credit card when reserving a room for this one....

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 3.0 V6 US Version

Mitsubishi announced that it will debute the North American market version of the Outlander SUV model at the upcoming New York Auto Show. Launched in Japan in October last year, the US Outlander will be powered by a 3-liter V6 MIVEC coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to change gear manually without having to take his hand off the steering wheel.

The new Outlander offers two drive formats: the electronically controlled 4WD system and a front-wheel drive version tailored to the North American market.

Like the Japanese model, the new Outlander will use a newly design high-rigidity platform that realizes improved impact safety and an aluminum roof panel that lowers center of gravity and reduces roll inertia for improved handling performance and ride.

As for its utility performance, the Outlander has a split tailgate ("Flap-fold tailgate") that facilitates the loading of different sizes and weights of luggage. But most important for the US market, it will be available with a 7-seat layout that features two occasional-use third row seats stored flat under the floor ("Underfloor-stowable compact 3rd row seat")

Technology hallmarks of the new Outlander, include a standard Bluetooth(R) hands-free cellular phone interface, advanced FAST-Key access system, and optional 650-watt Rockford Fosgate(R) audio system and DVD entertainment. A new hard-drive navigation system will be available as an option

Technorati Tags: Mitsubishi+Outlander, autos, auto+news, automotive, press+release, images, pictures, New+York+International+Auto+Show

We're in... we're out.... we're in... we're out.... we're in....

Canadian "Civic Championship" Racing Series Race at Grand Prix of Canada Courtesy of Honda Canada

The Civic Championship will race Honda Civic DX Coupes at the F1 Grand Prix of Canada in Montreal on June 24, 2006 through the generous support of Honda Canada."Honda has provided us with a great opportunity," said Marcel Demers co-administrator of the Championship series and continued, " by giving the Civic Championship a show case for Canadian motorsport talent at the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix".

- From ASN / FIA

CANADIAN RACER ANDREW RANGER BEGINS TESTING SESSIONS AS EFFORTS CONTINUE TO SECURE SPONSORSHIP FOR FULL CHAMP CAR SEASON

Montreal, Quebec, March 28, 2006 - Andrew Ranger, the Canadian race-car driver who is coming off a promising rookie season that saw him earn 10th place in the Champ Car World Series drivers' standings, begins preparations for the 2006 campaign this week with a two-day testing session with the Mi-Jack Conquest Racing Team on the Fontana, California road course.

While Ranger runs testing laps on Wednesday and Thursday, efforts will continue to secure additional sponsorship that will enable the 19-year-old Roxton Pond, Quebec driver to compete in a full Champ Car schedule. Ranger is currently set to race in the season opener at Long Beach, California, on April 9, as well as the three Canadian stops on the schedule, in Toronto (July 9), Edmonton (July 23) and Montreal (Aug. 27).

"It's still very much a work in progress," said Ranger's agent Alan Labrosse. "Thus far, we have managed to put together a package for the four races, but the ultimate goal is to give Andrew an opportunity to showcase his considerable talent and be able to contend for the championship. Andrew is one of the most promising young talents in the series, along with being a fine ambassador and spokesperson for his sponsors, and it would be unfortunate to see the career of a rising Canadian star compromised in this manner."

Procter & Gamble Canada, a partner from day one through its Tide brand, has taken the lead in supporting Andrew's career. Other key partners for the 2006 season include Folgers, Kodak, Duracell, Kellogg Canada and Sharpie.

"I can't say enough about the tremendous support from P&G Canada and their belief in Andrew both on and off the track," said Labrosse. "They have been instrumental in bringing other sponsors on board, but we need to find more partners who share the same commitment and vision."

Despite the uncertainty that surrounds his full-season status for the 2006 Champ Car season, Ranger is looking forward to putting his Mi-Jack Conquest car through its paces and providing the crew with feedback to help the fine-tuning process leading up to the season-opener.

"My focus is always on the competitive side of it, and I leave the business part to my agent," said Ranger. "Last year, we had a goal to finish in the top 10, and we managed to achieve that. I've spent several years climbing the racing ranks in pursuit of my dream and I'm hoping, for myself and everyone who has supported me that I'll be able to keep it going."

Ranger burst quickly from the starting line when he garnered his first podium in only his second race when he drove to a second-place finish in Monterrey, Mexico, becoming the youngest driver ever to earn a Champ Car podium. He recorded five other top-10 finishes on the way to a 140-point season. At the tender age of 18, Ranger finished second to the seasoned Timo Glock in the series' rookie standings.

- From Torchia Communications

ASN Canada FIA Announce Prize Fund Support for the Canadian Civic Championship Series

ASN Canada FIA today announced a prize fund contribution for the new "Canadian Civic Championship Series".

ASN's President Roger Peart, "In keeping with our vision of helping young Canadians move up the ladder of Canadian motorsport, ASN Canada FIA is pleased to support CASC-OR and FSAQ, the co-organizing sanctioning bodies, in their effort to make this series a success. To ensure its success we are providing direct support to the drivers with a monetary award to the Championship. A total of $6,000 will be contributed and distributed among the top 3 finishers in the Championship at year's end."

The series promoters were pleased with the announcement by ASN's President Roger Peart but are continuing their efforts to secure more sponsorship for the series.

"We are delighted with this announcement," said Gunter Schmidt, administrator of the series. "We are continuing to build on the present by promoting the series, and also working hard to assure the growth of the Civic series by adding the 2006 and 2007 Honda Civic models in to the 2007 racing season in order to increase participation of the drivers."

This type of single-marque car racing Championship has seen Canadian drivers like Ron Follows, David Empringham, Richard Spénard, Frank Allers, Jacques Villeneuve the elder, and more recently Kuno Wittmer, coming through the ranks on their way to making their mark on the national and international motorsport scene.

About the Series
The Championship demonstrates motorsport competitiveness in a single-marque championship series for up-and-coming as well as seasoned drivers. The concept of the Civic Championship is a cost-effective, competitive series emphasizing development of individual driver skills by permitting only minimal car modifications. In keeping with this concept, the Honda Civic DX Coupes, Honda Accessories and the products of the sponsors used in the Championship must be identifiable with the cars and offered for sale to the public through normal distribution channels.

***
The Canadian Civic Championship Series opens its 2006 season on April 29 at Autodrome St-Eustache in Québec. The eight-race schedule also includes events at Mosport International Raceway on May 22 and June 18, and at the Canadian Grand Prix on Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on June 24. The final four races of the 2006 season will be held at Shannonville Motorsport Park on July 16, Autodrome St-Eustache on July 22, Circuit Mont-Tremblant on September 24 and at the season finale at Mosport on October 1.
- From ASN / FIA

2007 Suzuki XL7 & SX4

Suzuki officially announced that it is going to stage the World Premiere of it’s all new XL7 SUV model and the North American Debut of it's SX4 compact SUV at the 2006 New York International Auto Show. Although Suzuki hasn’t given us any photos –yet, of its midsize SUV, we get some preliminary specifications of the car as its body size and the engine that will equip the 2007 XL7, a 3.6 V6 DOCH motor.

PRESS RELEASE: Suzuki XL7

In the creation of the XL7, Suzuki leveraged its SUV heritage and expertise to design an all-new vehicle for the midsize SUV crossover segment, providing style, room and adaptability for mobile lifestyles. The 2007 SuzukiXL7, equipped with a 3.6-liter, V6 DOHC engine, defines the new direction of the midsize SUV crossover market and is one of the first entries to combine room for family and cargo with performance, style and comfort not previously associated with midsize SUVs.

The all-new XL7 has cargo and seating flexibility for all aspects of active lifestyles, on-road performance capabilities, sleek and distinctive style and advanced safety features that provide a confident feeling of being in control in any condition. Suzuki's new generation midsize SUV crossover is slated to go on sale in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2006.

2007 Suzuki XL7 Specifications:

Wheelbase: 112.4-in./ 2,857mm

Overall width: 72.2-in./ 1,835mm

Overall length: 196.6-in./ 4,995mm

Overall height: 68.9-in./ 1,750mm

Suzuki SX4

Globally introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2006, the SuzukiSX4 compact sport X-over with AWD will make its North American debut at the NYIAS. The all-new SX4 features a versatile, rigid five-door design, a standard all-wheel-drive system and for the U.S. market, a sophisticated fuel-sipping 2.0-liter DOHC engine.

The Suzuki SX4's advanced intelligent all-wheel-drive system (i-AWD) sends power to the rear wheels as needed with no additional input necessary from thedriver. Called the Three-Mode Switchable AWD system, it features a selector switch on the center console that allows the driver to select from three modes: 2WD, AUTO (AWD High) and LOCK (AWD Lock). Customers in the United States will have a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or an available four-speed automatic transmission.

With its contemporary styling, high-output engine, the security of AWD and ABS and five-door versatility, the all-new Suzuki SX4 delivers the bold attitude and performance designed for those who live an adventurous life. TheSX4 is slated to go on sale in the United States in the third quarter of 2006.

2007 Suzuki SX4 Specifications

Wheelbase: 98.4-in./ 2,500mm

Overall width: 69.1-in./ 1,755mm

Overall length: 162.8-in./ 4,135mm

Overall height: 63.2-in./ 1,605mm

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Holden Thunder Ute & Thunder Crewman

Holden Unleashes Thunder Ute and Crewman with 235 & 355 Hp engines

GM’s Australian subsidiary Holden, is keeping the muscle-car flame alive even in its Ute range as the Auzzies unveiled another version of their popular light commercial model, based on the Commodore (which is actually based on the Opel Omega & Cadillac Catera…)

The special edition “Thunder” models for the 2door Ute and 4door Crewman represent up to $3500 (2.480 US $) in extra value and are available on S Ute, SS Ute and SS Crewman. They will be in Holden dealerships by April 2006.

The Thunder SS models are powered by Holden’s new Gen 4 V8 engine which delivers 260kW or 355 Hp of peak power at 5600rpm and 510Nm or 56 kgm of peak torque at 4400rpm. The Thunder S Ute boasts the advanced 172 kW or 235 Hp Alloytec V6 engine made at Holden’s Port Melbourne engine plant.

“Thunder” Ute and Crewman additional feature highlights:

Exterior

Sports Hard Tonneau – S Ute, SS Ute

Hard Tonneau – SS Crewman

17-inch alloy wheels – SS Crewman (alloy spare)

18-inch alloy wheels – S Ute (steel spare), SS Ute (alloy spare)

Special edition 'Thunder' badging

Interior

Colour Coded Leather Seats – SS Ute

Anthracite Leather seats – S Ute, SS Crewman

Recommended Retail Pricing:

Thunder S Ute: Manual $33,990 (24.100 US $) automatic $34,990 (24.800 US $)

Thunder SS Ute: Manual and automatic $42,490 (30.110 US $)

Thunder SS Crewman: Manual and automatic $48,690 (34.500 US $)

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Last call for schedules!!!

We're down to the wire on the 2006 edition of the Inside Track Motorsport News Canadian Speedway Guide.

The issue goes to press on Friday. Please make sure we have a copy of your most recent schedule by sending a plain text version to James Neilson, who is in charge of putting it together.

More than any other thing we publish, the Speedway Guide is referenced time and again throughout the racing season by fans who are looking to see some racing.

TSN: Pass the hat for Andrew Ranger

The agent for Andrew Ranger says they need additional sponsorship in order for the Quebec racer to compete full time in the Champ Car series this year.

Alan Labrosse says they currently have enough funds for the 19 year old to take part in the season opening race in Long Beach plus the three Canadian events on the schedule - Toronto, Edmonton and Montreal.
Labrosse says they hope use this week's two-day test session in Fontana to try and attract additional sponsors.

"It's still very much a work in progress," said Labrosse. "Thus far, we have managed to put together a package for the four races, but the ultimate goal is to give Andrew an opportunity to showcase his considerable talent and be able to contend for the championship."

Currently Ranger has support from P & G Canada while Folgers, Kodak, Duracell, Kellogg Canada and Sharpie have signed on for 2006.

"I can't say enough about the tremendous support from P&G Canada and their belief in Andrew both on and off the track," said Labrosse. "They have been instrumental in bringing other sponsors on board, but we need to find more partners who share the same commitment and vision."

... more at the link above.

TSN: Minardi set to return.... Renault quakes in fear

Former Minardi owner Paul Stoddart has submitted an entry for an F1 team in the 2008 championship.

Stoddart sold the rights to his F1 franchise last year to Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz, who renamed the team Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2006.

However, Stoddart says he retained the rights to the Minardi name and the intellectual property rights to the PS04 cars build in 2004.

"I've lodged myself an entry as European Minardi F1 team Limited," Stoddart tells Reuters.

"We've got the cars we ran in Melbourne last year, we've got the team and we've got the facility," he added.

Stoddart admits the entry might be a long shot, depending on how many teams file an entry by the end of this week.

If the current 11 teams all submit an entry - which is likely at this point - then that would leave just one opening under the 2008 proposals approved by the World Motor Sport Council last week. FIA president Max Mosley has indicated that three to four groups have expressed interest in entering a team under the new cost-cutting rules.

Stoddart, who was a thorn in Mosley's side when he was an F1 owner, says being away from the sport is much harder than he expected.

"I miss it, and I miss it badly," he tells The Age newspaper in Australia. "I would like to think that all kinds of opportunities could be there, if not in '06 or '07 but in '08."

Despite the fact that Stoddart would get back into the sport under new rules crafted by his nemesis aimed at independent teams entering F1, he is still critical of the way Mosley has gone about pushing through changes.
"I am kind of sad to see that the politics are worse than they have everbeen at any time," Stoddart said. "I had hoped we would get to a point where we would see a new Concorde Agreement signed and unity between the independents and the manufacturers and Bernie Ecclestone and the banks but sadly at this time, we have Mad Max (Mosley) back in charge."

Stoddart, who made his fortune in the aviation business, recently suspended operation of his business airline Oz Jet less than four months after launching the service in Australia.

Range Rover Sport HST

The brits try to give the Range Rover Sport a “Stormier” look

Land Rover revealed a new version of its Range Rover Sport model. Titled HST, the car basically adds a host of additional equipment along with design cues inspired by the Range Stormer concept car, first shown in Detroit.

"The HST allows a Range Rover Sport customer to drive the closest thing there is to the radical Range Stormer, our first ever concept vehicle and a real milestone for the company. It's the extreme version of the Range Rover Sport, the design that will be chosen by those who want to stand out from the crowd." says Land Rover UK managing director, John Edwards.

The new HST will be based on the Supercharged specification with the additional equipment including: electric sunroof, an electronic active locking rear differential and privacy glass. The interior is distinguished by a unique hand polished lined oak trim.

The exterior design includes new flush-fitting front and rear bumpers and a new larger open-mouth grille. The front lower air intake is deeper and new front fog lamps are mounted in the spoiler. The lower doors and lower rear boot are body-coloured, making the body sides appear deeper, accentuating the vehicles road-hugging qualities. A new tail spoiler is also fitted, and the special rectangular tail-pipes are close to those used on the original Range Stormer concept vehicle.

Further visual impact is provided by the 20 inch 'Stormer' alloy wheels, chromed aluminium side vents and body-coloured door mirror cappings, unique to this derivative.

The HST will be available in five colours; Bonatti Grey, Cairns Blue, Java Black, Rimini Red and Zermatt Silver. Performance figures are the same as the standard Supercharged model.

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Acura MDX Concept

Acura is going to preview an all new MDX concept at the New York International Auto Show. Product version following later this year

Celebrating its 20th anniversary as a brand, Acura announced plans to debut a concept version of the all-new MDX luxury sport-utility vehicle, April 12, at the New York International Auto Show and released an artist's rendering of the new vehicle. Scheduled to debut later this year, the 2007 Acura MDX will be the second generation of Acura's luxury SUV to be designed, developed and manufactured exclusively in North America.

"The 2007 MDX will speak clearly to the advanced image of Acura and promises to put MDX solidly at the front of the pack with a striking new image, new technology and performance unmatched in the segment," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The designers and engineers working on this new MDX have a tremendous passion for this product that will be evident in all aspects of its design and performance."

The past…

Launched on March 27, 1986, Acura was the world's first Japanese luxury nameplate and the first to challenge established European and American luxury marquees with its world-class engineering, product quality, value and advanced powertrain technology. Its 20-year history of innovation includes the first Japanese exotic sports car, the highly-acclaimed Acura NSX, and numerous technology firsts including the first automotive applications of in-dash navigation, Bluetooth(R) phone integration and DVD-Audio surround sound. Acura was also the first Japanese luxury automaker to develop and manufacturer its vehicles in North America, beginning with the 1997 Acura 2.2CL coupe. Today, nearly two-thirds of all Acura vehicles sold in America are designed, developed and manufactured in North America.

And the…future

In 2006, Acura will introduce two all-new models - the 2007 Acura MDX and the completely new RDX premium entry SUV. Equipped with an innovative new 2.3-liter turbocharged engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, the RDX combines sport-utility function with sports sedan handling and performance. The RDX will launch this summer as a 2007 model.

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2007 Volvo XC90 Facelift

At the end of May, Volvo is going to reveal a facelifted version of its XC90 SUV (2007 model). The most important exterior changes concern the new front & rear light clusters and redesigned bumpers that give the XC90 a more aggressive look. Also, the 2007 XC90 gets new auxiliary turn signals, which are housed in the side mirrors. In the interior Volvo enhances the XC90 with new materials and chrom-plated elements.

Aesthetics aside, the most significant change of the 2007 XC90 is well hidden under its hood as the Swedish SUV gets Volvo’s new straight 6 engine that was previewed in the 2007 S80. The 3,2 litre engine produces 235 Hp and a maximum torque of 320 Nm.

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2007 Chrysler 300 Long Wheelbase

New Chrysler 300 is six inches longer than current models, providing an additional 10.2 cubic feet of interior space. Engine options include the 3.5 V6 and the 5.7 V8 HEMI

Chrysler Group announced today that a new model—the 2007 Chrysler 300 Long Wheelbase — will be on display at the New York International Auto Show, in the Jacob K. Javits Center, April 14-23 in New York City. The Chrysler 300 Long Wheelbase is six inches longer than the current models, providing more than 46 inches of rear legroom and an additional 10.2 cubic feet of interior space. Available this fall, the lengthier Chrysler 300 is expected to attract sales from the livery/limousine industry, as well as retail customers.

"The 300 Long Wheelbase will have six inches more of the elegant, distinct design that made the Chrysler 300 the most-awarded new car in automotive history," said David Rooney, Director —Chrysler Marketing Communications."In addition, limousine-like features have been added and custom options are available. The result is a truly distinctive and personalized experience for commercial and retail customers, all for what will be an affordable price."

Both the 300 Touring and 300C Long Wheelbase models can be ordered with unique, personalized features, including lighted rear writing tables, two 12V power ports for computers/cell phones, footrests, lighted vanity mirrors and directional reading lights for passengers, and available custom paint colors or pinstriping.

The Chrysler 300 Touring Long Wheelbase model will be equipped with a 3.5 V6 engine, providing 250 hp, while the 300C Long Wheelbase will have the 5.7 V8 HEMI engine, generating 340 hp, and the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which seamlessly reduces the number of cylinders from eight to four when less power is required.

The 300 Long Wheelbase will be modified by Accubuilt, a leading custom specialty vehicle manufacturer with more than 128 years of experience, based in Lima, Ohio, and will be sold through Chrysler dealerships. Pricing and production information will be provided closer to launch this fall.

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DaimlerChrysler axes the Smart Forfour

A few weeks after axing the Smart Roadster & Roadster-Coupe models, DaimlerChrysler announced that it is considering to terminate its most ambitious plan, the Forfour model.

Although officially, the plan to cut the Fourfor is yet to be approved by both the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board of DaimlerChrysler AG, “death” is just a matter of time for the 4door Smart model. The cost for DaimlerChrysler related to these measures is estimated to be in the magnitude of approximately €1 billion or $ 1.2 billion

PRESS RELEASE: Focusing on the smart fortwo

• New smart fortwo to be launched in 2007

• Cancellation of production of smart forfour intended, subject to negotiations with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and other partners

• Sustainable profitability confirmed
  

DaimlerChrysler AG is planning to focus on the smart fortwo to ensure the long-term sustainability of its smart brand. Thus, the profitability of smart will be confirmed, with positive results expected from 2007 onward.The planned measures for a further enhancement of the business modell of smart include the following items:

• The clear focus on the smart fortwo;
• the intention to cancel production of the smart forfour;
• the manifestation of smart and especially the smart fortwo as a long-term and important part of DaimlerChrysler’s product portfolio;
• as well as the complete integration of smart into the Mercedes organization.

Overall, these measures are likely to result in a headcount reduction of 300 employees at smart in Böblingen. The smart forfour is produced by MMC through its wholly-owned subsidiary Netherlands Car B.V. (Nedcar) in Born, Netherlands. The cancellation of the forfour production is still subject to negotiations to be carried out with MMC and all other partners

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