MOPAR Day at Barrie... and other things

There were several cars and drivers at Barrie Speedway on Friday for the annual MOPAR Day. You can see from the picture above that these guys are serious about their program. An impressive display!

I'll try to post some more later, but in a nutshell, a big 'thank you' to MOPAR (& DaimlerChrysler / Dodge) for their support of Canadian racing.

MOPAR will be the title sponsor of the Canada Day race at Barrie, and MOPAR Super Series drivers are eligible to collect $250,000 in contingency program awards from MOPAR / DaimlerChrysler / Dodge.

Before I head out to mow the lawn (it's a rare sunny weekend in T.O.!), thanks to everyone who voted in the ITMN Readers' Choice Awards. Voting closed last night at 6 p.m. We'll announce the results very soon... possibly in the next issue.

Winter is finally over as it's sun, sun, sun in souther Ontario and several speedways are set to take the green flag tonight. Safe and fun racing to all!

Finally, I'm heading over to MiniGrid tonight for the Open House get together. Some of the books and models of the late Bob Brockington will be on display. The books will go on auction tomorrow (Sunday), while the family will keep the models. Should be a fun night. Starts at 6 and everyone is welcome.

New 355 Hp 4.2 FSI V8 for the Audi A6 and A8

One of the world’s most modern eight-cylinder engines is now available for the Audi A6 and A8 model lines. The 4.2 FSI, closely related to the high-revving V8 in the Audi RS 4, develops considerably more power than its 335 bhp predecessor. With the aid of petrol direct injection, it now generates 350 bhp (257 kW). And at the same time, its fuel consumption is around 10 percent lower. The immense power of the eight-cylinder engine is transferred via 6-speed tiptronic transmission and quattro permanent four-wheel drive.

The new engine is available in the new 2007 model year for all A6 models and for the standard-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions of the A8. The basic prices are € 61,300 for the A6 4.2 FSI quattro saloon and € 76,200 for the A8 4.2 FSI quattro.

The A6 3.0 TDI quattro will now also receive more power – in future, like the Audi A8, it will generate 171 kW (233 bhp, instead of the previous 225 bhp).

Also available for both model lines is the Audi parking system advanced, which aids the driver with a wide-angle rear-view camera when parking. The completely distortion-free images contain guidance lines which show the line the car should follow and the distance to obstacles based on the steering angle. This is a system which has already proved itself in the Audi Q7 and which received nothing but praise from the media on making its debut.

In the cockpit of the Audi A8, a 5-inch central display will be a standard feature of the driver information system, replacing the 3-inch monitor used up to now. This has the advantage of an improved and enlarged display of information on navigation, consumption and range. Further information can also be shown in parallel on the colour display.

Rear passengers can also enjoy a new perspective in the 2007 model year of the A8 and A8L if desired: with the Rear Seat Entertainment plus system from quattro GmbH, they will in future have the option of watching TV via monitors in the head restraints of the front seats while travelling. The system is operated via remote control from the rear.

Technorati Tags: Audi, A6, A8, 4.2+FSI+V8, engine, autos, auto+news, automotive, cars, press+release, images, pictures

GM, DaimlerChrysler & BMW Premiere Hybrid Technology




GM, DaimlerChrysler & BMW Team up and Present a new Hybrid Technology that promises to put an end to Toyota's "monarchy"

The state-of-the-art full hybrid system, whose components are being co-developed by General Motors Corp., DaimlerChrysler and the BMW Group for production beginning next year, represents a major automotive industry milestone due to the unprecedented fully integrated combination of electric motors with a fixed-gear transmission.

As a result of its low- and high-speed electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) modes, the system is commonly referred to as the 2-mode hybrid. However, the sophisticated fuel-saving system also incorporates four fixed gear ratios for high efficiency and power-handling capabilities in a broad variety of vehicle applications.

During the two ECVT modes and four fixed gear operations, the hybrid system can use the electric motors for boosting and regenerative braking. In summary, the four fixed gears overlay two ECVT modes for a total of six operating functions:

•Input-split ECVT mode, or continuously variable Mode 1, operates from vehicle launch through the second fixed gear ratio.

•Compound-split ECVT mode, or continuously variable Mode 2, operates after the second fixed gear ratio.

•First fixed-gear ratio with both electric motors available to boost the internal combustion engine or capture and store energy from regenerative braking, deceleration and coasting.

•Second fixed-gear ratio with one electric motor available for boost/braking,

•Third fixed-gear ratio with two electric motors available for boost/braking.

•Fourth fixed-gear ratio with one electric motor available for boost/braking.

The result is trend-setting hybrid technology that provides superior fuel economy, performance and load carrying capability. The full hybrid system being co-developed by General Motors, DaimlerChrysler and the BMW Group has an overall mechanical content and size similar to a conventional automatic transmission, yet this full hybrid transmission can operate in infinitely variable gear ratios or one of the four fixed-gear ratios.

A sophisticated electronic control module constantly optimizes the entire hybrid powertrain system to select the most efficient operation point for the power level demanded by the driver.

Key Advantages: When compared `to conventional hybrid systems, this avant-garde hybrid technology, relying on both the ECVT modes and the four fixed gear ratios, provides advantages in combined (city and highway) fuel economy, dynamics and towing capability.

Traditional hybrid systems typically have only one torque-splitting arrangement and no fixed mechanical ratios. These systems are often called "one-mode" hybrids. Due to their less capable mechanical content, one-mode hybrids need to transmit a significant amount of power through an electrical path that is 20 percent less efficient than a mechanical path. This requires usually substantial compromise in vehicle capability or reliance on larger electrical motors, which can create cost, weight and packaging issues.

General Motors, DaimlerChrysler and the BMW Group conceive a full hybrid system featuring four fixed mechanical ratios, within the two ECVT modes, to reduce power transmission through the less efficient electrical path. Consequently, the electric motors are more compact and less dependent on engine size.

This combination of two ECVT modes and four fixed gear ratios eliminates the drawbacks of one-mode hybrid systems to allow for efficient operation throughout a vehicle's operating range, at low and high speeds. It also allows for application across a broader variety of vehicles. It is particularly beneficial in demanding applications that require larger engines, such as towing, hill climbing or carrying heavy loads.

Existing internal combustion engines can be used with relatively minimal alteration because the full hybrid system imposes no significant limitation on the size or type of engine. It enables the three automakers to package internal combustion engines with the full hybrid transmissions more cost-effectively and offer the fuel-saving technology across a wider range of vehicles.

Initial applications are suitable for front-engine, rear- and four-wheel-drive vehicle architectures, but the full hybrid system has the flexibility to be used in front-engine, front-wheel-drive architectures in the future as well.

Global Hybrid Cooperation: General Motors, DaimlerChrysler and the BMW Group have formed a cooperative effort called the Global Hybrid Cooperation, which is actively developing this next generation hybrid powertrain system. In an alliance of equals, all three partners are pooling expertise and resources to jointly and efficiently develop hybrid technology. Each company will individually integrate the full hybrid system into the design and manufacturing of vehicles in accordance with their brand specific requirements.

In Troy, Michigan, the "GM, DaimlerChrysler and BMW Hybrid Development Center" houses together engineers and specialists from all three companies to develop the complete hybrid system and the individual components -- electric motors, high-performance electronics, wiring, energy management, and hybrid system control units. In addition, the "GM, DaimlerChrysler and BMW Hybrid Development Center" will be responsible for system integration and project management.

A key factor in ensuring optimum development is the focus on a flexible system design that can be scaled to the size, mass and performance needs of the various vehicle concepts and brands. The extensive sharing of components and the collaborative relationship with suppliers will enable the alliance partners to achieve economies of scale and associated cost advantages that will also benefit customers. Currently full hybrid systems are under development for front- and rear-wheel-drive passenger cars, and light-duty truck and SUV applications.

Technorati Tags: GM, BMW, DaimlerChrysler, hybrid, images, pictures, autos, auto+news, automotive, cars, press+release,

Ford S-MAX and Galaxy MPV get straight A’s in Allergy protection

Ford S-MAX and Galaxy MPV receive German TÜV "Allergy Tested Interior" and British Allergy Foundation seals of approval

Allergies are on the rise, a fact that becomes evident this time of year to millions of people who suffer from breathing difficulties. So it's not by accident that the United Nations is calling attention to World Asthma Day on May 2.

With the all new Ford S-MAX and new Galaxy models, Ford Europe now offers two more vehicles to the increasing number of consumers looking for allergy friendly products. Following the Ford Focus and Focus C-MAX, the new S-MAX and Galaxy are the third and forth vehicles worldwide that have been certified by the German TÜV organization to minimise the allergy risk to the lowest possible level.

"Ford Motor Company takes the impact of allergies seriously. We are leading the industry in providing car interiors that are certified as allergy friendly," said Dr Wolfgang Schneider, vice president, governmental and environmental affairs, Ford of Europe.

"The positive public response to our initiative confirms that we are on the right track. We aim to get as many as possible existing and future vehicle models certified to these TÜV standards – and this at no extra costs for our customers," he added.

The TÜV is an independent, authoritative German testing and assessment organisation that controls and certifies quality standards for industrial and consumer products. An extensive series of scientifically verifiable tests was carried out on the S-MAX and Galaxy, as on the Focus and Focus C-MAX earlier, in accordance with strict TÜV examination procedures. More than 100 materials and components were tested for harmful substances and allergy causing potential. Additionally, all components likely to have direct and prolonged skin contact such as the steering wheel and seat covers, floor mats and seat belts were also dermatologically tested.

Ford development engineers decided to avoid using in these vehicles materials such as latex, chrome and nickel that can provoke allergic reactions in some people. Additionally, the vehicles are equipped with a high-performance pollen filter, which was also tested by the TÜV. The filter effectively prevents pollen – a particular concern for allergy sufferers – from entering the vehicle’s interior.

The TÜV tests involve an extensive analysis of the passenger compartment air quality, examining the concentration of organic substances such as formaldehyde, phenols, phthalates, and solvents. The measurement and assessment criteria are published on the Internet (www.tuv.com, ID number: 0000007407).

Technorati Tags: Ford+S-MAX, Ford+Galaxy, autos, auto+news, cars, automotive, press+release, Allergies, TUV

Russo-Baltique Impression

World presentation of Russo-Baltique Impression

A resurrected Russian brand, Russo-Baltique made its first public appearance at the Villa D'Este Concours d'Elegance over the weekend. In 2005, German Gerg GmbH became involved in the building of the Impression coupe bringing in the capabilities of its Munich-based production facility.

Russo-Baltique Impression is ready for a limited-series production – 10-15 cars – starting from Spring, 2006. Each car production, including the preparation and approval of its exclusive specifications, will take 12 to 18 months. The Impression uses a Mercedes AMG 5.5 V12 bi-turbo engine that produces 555 hp.

The company is able to build 2-3 Russo-Baltique Impression cars annually. The price of a car amounts to approximately 50 million rubles -or about $ 1.800.000 or € 1.450.000...




The official press release on the new Impression:

It is the honor of Russo-Baltique Company of Russia to present to the honorable public a coupe called Impression – the first model of the Russo-Baltique brand after a long intermission. On the eve of its 100th anniversary, the Russian antique car brand – the supplier of His Highness the Emperor’s Court – is returning to the market of luxury and high-powered cars with this model.

The Russo-Baltique car brand’s history begins in 1907 when a domestic autocar manufacturing was established by one of the largest industrial concerns in the Russian Empire. Two years had passed before the first car was built – a 30-hp open two-seater Russo-Baltique 24-30. First years of its existence were marked by outstanding performance in automotive sport competitions building up the reputation of a reliable, ideal and elegant model producer. In 1912, a special sport model, Russo-Baltique C24-50, won two first awards in the Monte-Carlo Rally, and the second award in the rally in San-Sebastian a year after that.

In 1913, Russo-Baltique was granted a title of an official supplier of His Highness the Emperor’s Court.In 1914, the Russo-Baltique concern built the biggest aeroplane in the world – Ilya Muromets – developed by a remarkable Russian engineer Igor Sikorsky.

The First World War became a turning-point in the Russian history in general and the Russo-Baltique future, in particular. The subsequent Revolution brought an end to the Russo-Baltique production for many years.

According to our estimates, there are 3 complete samples of different historical models of Russo- Baltique remaining in the world. In 2003, a decision to revive the legendary Russian brand and to resume the Russo-Baltique cars production was made in Moscow. In 2005, the Russo-Baltique Company was officially registered. The main office of the company is located in the historical center of Moscow, close to the old Church of the Ascension at Uspensky Vrazhek.

Today, the Russo-Baltique company, for the first time in its history, has the honor to present the prototype of its new model – Impression, a luxury comfortable 4-seater with classic set-up. It manifests perfect style and quality attributed to all subsequent cars and brands of Russo-Baltique. With the cars of this level of perfection, the company will strive for returning its position lost in 1917.




The Impression coupe has been under construction in Moscow since 2003. The style of Impression is a mixture of the Russo-Baltique designers’ impressions from the Golden Age of the automotive industry – the 1930s – when car shapes won hearts both by their elegance and by their monumental size. For comfortable boarding, the car is equipped with rear-hinged doors. The radiator grille of the Russo-Baltique Impression is crowned by the historical heraldic sign picturing the Russian two-headed eagle - the official emblem of a supplier to His Highness the Emperor’s Court. The dash board of Impression is hand-made of a one-piece exotic African tree trunk, Zebrano, with naturally alternating black and white stripes. The steering-wheel rim and interior side panels are made of the same material. In combination with white metal these parts create both a unique and ergonomic interior ensemble.

While in the 20th century the dominant feature of Russo-Baltique cars was the Russian heritage of all their parts and their unique adaptation to Russian bad roads, in the 21st century the priority has shifted to innovations, perfection, and high technology of the car design and materials. The car quality, as it was before, will be a match to its unique title of the Court’s supplier reinforced today by new technological capabilities.

Technical data on Russo-Baltique Impression

Engine 555 hp bi-turbo V12

Gearbox 6-speed automatic

Suspension pneumatic, adjustable ride height

Wheels R22 inches, wheel rim of original design

Length 5.183 m

Wheelbase 3.150 m

Width 1.847 m

Height 1.433 m

Technorati Tags: Russo+Baltique+Impression, Autos, auto+news, automotive, press+release, cars, images, pictures

LAST DAY TO VOTE!!!!!

Voting ends tonight at 6 p.m. !!!!

Today is your last chance to cast your ballots for the Inside Track Readers' Choice Awards.

I'm heading to Barrie Speedway today for the CASCAR / MOPAR Day. Have a great weekend everyone!

Times are a-changing! Fédération de Sport Automobile du Québec

Courtesy Jean-François Ouellet

Montreal, Canada – April 25, 2006 – Sportimage.net – Just before the official start of the season and its schedule for 2006, Fédération de Sport Automobile du Québec and its members are proud of the changes that took place since the beginning of the year. Since January 2006, a new kind of wind is blowing on the FSAQ, bringing in a new name, a new logo, development of new programs and a new General Manager.

The federation, which has been managing and guiding part of the Québec motorsports scene like track racing, karting, Solo and ice racing, has just set new guidelines with the nomination of a new general manager and the appointment of directors to sport commissions. So it is with renewed optimism that the various FSAQ leaders are moving ahead and pushing training, educational, development and safety programs in each one of its disciplines.

General manager since last October, 38 year-old Jean-François Ouellet is running the sports organization where numerous challenges are awaiting. He is optimistic about supporting and managing part of our motorsports. “The number of people involved in motorsports in Quebec keeps growing, whether it is for fun or to make a career of it. And since it is increasingly difficult to reach the top levels of motorsports like Formula One and Champ Car, the fans are turning to us to get their kicks, in track racing, Solo or karting. Our job, among other things, is to help track owners, teams, clubs and driving schools to take them in and help them,” said Jean-François Ouellet.

Previously known as Fédération Auto Québec, the federation underwent through rebirth in January 2006 and changed its name to Fédération de Sport Automobile du Québec. In the same stride, it adopted a new logo, more modern and dynamic. “Like any other business, we had to have a younger look. The new name emphasizes the kind of activities we deal in. We are proud of these changes,” the new general manager pointed out.

More present…
Representing national sanctioning body ASN Canada FIA in Quebec, Fédération de Sport Automobile du Québec, which issues nearly 1,000 licenses annually, just undertook a major turnaround. FSAQ plans to be more visible during racing events. “One of FSAQ goals this year is to work together with the industry and to listen to their needs,” said Daniel Forest, president of FSAQ. “Our presence will be essential, in order to better know and understand these needs,” he added.

FSAQ wants to regain its position as the provincial motorsports authority. In order to learn more about this new orientation FSAQ is taking in 2006, Jean-François Ouellet has gracefully agreed to answer our questions.

How do you envision motorsports in Quebec? How would you rate it?
As I mentioned, Québec and Canadian motorsports are doing very well. Each year, Québec hosts two of the most honored racing events in North America from Formula One and Champ Car. We have other great events like Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, the historical event of Québec motorsports and ice-racing event Challenge Continental sur glace de Sherbrooke. Every year, Québec hosts a slew of important motorsports events, and the population is right with us. This year, the sheer huge number of events and participants, for fun or competition, confirms the interest for this type of sport: in 2006, FSAQ, in conjunction with ASN Canada FIA, will sanction more than 30 events.

You are young and you just got nominated to the position of general manager. In the past, Fédération de Sport Automobile du Québec has made decisions that were not always unanimously approved. How do you see your role and the coming year?
I like peace and I enjoy bringing people together. I consider my job and that of FSAQ like that of a bandleader whose goal it is to help those in the various disciplines get answers to their needs while abiding by the rules.

In 2006, FSAQ will help sanctioned events, but will also set up, in each discipline, training, educational, development and safety programs. For FSAQ, there are no small or big players, only players. This way, our involvement will be the same in each discipline.

What can you tell us about the new training, educational, development and safety programs?
The training program involves flaggers, as well as drivers and managers. They all do their thing with diligence and passion, and they all dream of learning more. So our continued program will allow them to keep improving their skills. The educational aspect is very wide and will reach everyone involved with FSAQ. And we are also working on a standardization program for driving schools and racing officials.

In the first stage, the development program will deal with communications, promotion and awareness. As a matter of fact, our brand-new website is part of this development. Feel free to explore it at www.fsaq.qc.ca. Finally, since safety is the utmost in motorsports, we are working closely with the ministère de l’Éducation, du loisir et du sport on a safety standardization project for motorsports.

In 2006, FSAQ wants to create a synergy among all those programs.

You seem very optimistic and enthusiastic about all these programs and FSAQ new communicative approach. In truth, what does it all represent?
First, we demand more transparency. Right now, we are talking about more efficient communications. Second, motorsports come from the people and we have to win back that aspect of the sport that has been lost to the commercial side. To transmit this passion, one has to be passionate. The role of FSAQ will be to establish solid links with the community. This function suits me very well. A media and public relations campaign will be very important. Indeed, 2006 is an important year, and we have to make people work and grow together. We are not trying to reinvent the wheel, but we need to bring new support to the people who have the power to take important decisions with us.

Lamborghini Gallardo protagonist in Mission Impossible III

How do you get 3 Hollywood stars into a two-seater Lamborghini? Mission: Impossible?

In what is sure to become one of this summers big blockbuster hits, the Lamborghini Gallardo makes an on-screen appearance in the highly anticipated Mission: Impossible III (Paramount Pictures). Italian moviegoers were treated to an extra performance, when the cast arrived in 10 Lamborghinis at the movie’s spectacular world premiere in Rome.

Under the direction of J.J. Abrams, of the famous TV series "Lost" and "Alias", super agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) returns with a bang in the third installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise. The high-performance Lamborghini Gallardo, styled in a vibrant orange, is just the car to complete the IMF team.

The Gallardo is named after one of the five main breeds of bulls used in Spanish bullfighting. Just like the powerful animal after which it is named (and like the women Ethan Hunt loves and battles!), the car is the most beautiful specimen within the race.

So how do you get Tom Cruise, Maggie Q and this year’s Academy Award winner for best actor, Philip Seymour Hoffman, into the two-seater Lamborghini Gallardo? Go see Mission: Impossible III to find out!

A few facts about the Lamborghini Gallardo:

Permanent 4-wheel drive

Engine: 5 liter, 10 cylinder V90°, DOHC four valves

Power: 520HP at 8000rpm

Torque: 510 Nm at 4250 rpm

0-62 mph in 4.0 sec.

Top speed: 196 mph

Technorati Tags: Lamborghini+Gallardo, autos, auto+news, cars, automotive, press+release, movies, Paramount+pictures, Mission+Impossible+III

2007 BMW 3 Series Coupe Videos

A few days after the official unveiling of the 2007 BMW 3 Series Coupe, the Bavarian company released some videos of the 335i model where all you bimmer fans can get a live glimpse of the car but also… hear the sweet humming of its turbocharged in-line 6 cylinder engine.

Technorati Tags: BMW+3+Series+Coupe, 335i, video, press+release, autos, auto+news, automotive, E90, cars

Read more at www.bmw.com/com/en/inde...

B-K Motorsports is the new tire partner for KUMHO in the American Le Mans Series.

Courtesy Ryan Smith

Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. - KUMHO TIRE U.S.A. has added to its American Le Mans Series involvement, today announcing a partnership with the Mazda-powered B-K Motorsports team in LMP2. KUMHO will supply tires for B-K Motorsports' Mazda rotary-powered Courage C65 starting at the Lone Star Grand Prix in Houston, the next round of the American Le Mans Series.

"We're excited about the opportunity to work with Mazda," said Rudy Consolacion, KUMHO motorsports manager. "Like us, last year was Mazda's first year in the Series, and they're committed to developing their engine and chassis package and are eager to help us develop our tires. And like KUMHO, Mazda has a strong following among amateur racers because the company is involved in grassroots racing at so many levels, such as Spec Miata, Formula Mazda and Star Mazda."

KUMHO will supply racing tires for B-K Motorsports' Mazda-powered Courage C65 for the remaining 2006 American Le Mans Series schedule.



"We're very pleased with this new partnership," said John Doonan, manager of motorsports team development for Mazda North America. "Both KUMHO and Mazda are in somewhat of a development phase with American Le Mans Series programs. We believe this new partnership will take both companies to new heights in professional sports car racing."

KUMHO previously announced that its 2005 Series partner - Miracle Motorsports - decided to focus only on endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Petit Le Mans. "We will continue to supply tires to Miracle for endurance events, but we wanted to find another team with which we could contest the full American Le Mans Series season," Consolacion said.

Mazda's B-K Motorsports team finished third in the LMP2 championship last year, with drivers Guy Cosmo and Jamie Bach garnering Series Rookie of the Year honors. Cosmo and Bach are back with B-K again this year, and Marcus Haselgrove - who won two LMP1 championships as an engineer with Champion Racing and the Audi R8 - has joined B-K Motorsports as technical director and team manager.

The Lone Star Grand Prix in Houston will mark the race debut of the KUMHO-B-K Motorsports partnership.

"I'm thrilled about the opportunity to work with KUMHO because of what the company wants to do with development of the tires," Haselgrove said. "It's an exciting program to be involved with and is also a lot of responsibility. It's huge to actually get to help develop a race tire. The development will obviously help KUMHO and will also help us."

Consolacion is equally excited about the opportunity to work with Mazda, Haselgrove and the rest of the B-K team. "Mazda has succeeded at every level of motorsports in which it has participated," he said. "Marcus brings great experience from Champion Racing, a team that has won Le Mans, Sebring and American Le Mans Series championships. He brings a wealth of knowledge that will help us as we continually develop our tires. And Guy and Jamie are fast, young drivers who are back for a second season in the car, so they'll provide consistency behind the wheel."

Consolacion added that the team will test before the Houston event and has scheduled further development tests throughout the season. "LMP2 is a very competitive class with teams such as Intersport Racing and the Roger Penske-prepared Porsches. Acura is coming into the class next year, so LMP2 will be a great proving ground for Mazda and KUMHO."

The next round of the 2006 American Le Mans Series is the Lone Star Grand Prix, scheduled for 8 p.m. CDT on May 12 in Houston. It will be broadcast at 1 p.m. May 13 EDT on CBS Sports, the first of five straight Series events on network television. Qualifying is set for 6:15 p.m. CDT on May 11. American Le Mans Radio will have live coverage at www.americanlemans.com, which also will have IMSA Live Timing & Scoring.

The history of airfields in Ontario racing

Thanks to Bruce Mehlenbacher for the heads up on Tim Miller's story in today's Hamilton Spectator.

Pen Center Night kicks off Ladies Race Series at Merrittville: RANKIN CANCER RUN ALSO IN SPOTLIGHT

Courtesy Jim Irvine

THOROLD, ONTARIO … Mother’s Day weekend at Merrittville traditionally kicks off the Ladies Race Series of events at the Thorold track and once again, representatives from the Pen Center – Niagara’s largest shopping destination are guests in the Trackside Hospitality Suite and throughout the grandstands.

May 13th’s race card will be the second point event of 2006 for all divisions featured in the DIRT Weekly Racing Series – the L. St. Amand Enterprises 358 Modifieds, Original Pizza Logs Sportsmen, Premier/Mademoiselle Fitness Centers Classic/Mod Lites, Hoosier Stocks and the Turn 4 Collision 4 Cylinders.

“The Pen Centre and it’s merchants are great supporters of community events,” relates Merrittville GM Erica Bicknell, “ we’re happy to be their hosts during our 55th season … race fans enjoy seeing the race cars on display every March and now it’s time to enjoy them in action on the track.”

One car that drew lots of attention during the March event was the #6 Sportsmen of sophomore driver Mat Williamson.

“My Grandmother recently had cancer,” says Mat, “ when she was in treatment a friend of my mom’s suggested the idea … so along with my sponsors we came out with the Rankin Cancer Run design.”

The right side of Williamson’s 2003 Bicknell Chassis carries a special Rankin Cancer Run message and race fans will see the car on display and can meet the up and coming driver when the front gates open at the new time of 5:30.

Two Ladies Race Series events dot the 2006 schedule and with the traditional Mother’s Day weekend Series kickoff, all eyes will be on Christine Porter as she attempts to win her Mini-Series title in 2006.

If Porter attempts to defend her title, competition will surely come from former Champion Charlene Dooley, Karen Kocarik and others. All ladies wishing further information on the Ladies Race Series can contact the Speedway Office.

While these two Ladies Races will see the girls take to the track in Hoosier Stocks, another Ladies Race will help close the season as a 25 lap Ladies Enduro is scheduled for September 10th.

The Rankin Cancer Run is a new charity event for our own region, named gratefully and proudly after key supporter, Rankin Construction Incorporated. Their heart and community concern is overwhelming. The funds generated from this walk/run, will be given back to our community for help with immediate cancer care.

Prior to the night’s racing, race fans will be encouraged to make a donation to the Rankin Cancer Run by ‘voting’ for the Celebrity that they think will win the Zehr’s Food Plus Shopping Cart Race that will be held during the night.

There will be prizes awarded to a fan that donates to the eventual winner.

“It will surely be a sight to see,” relates Bicknell, “ we’re assembling the participants … hats off to them for helping out and Zehr’s at the Pen too.”

The Rankin Cancer Run will held Saturday May 27th starting at 10:00 AM from the Grantham Lions Club in St. Catharines. Individuals and teams alike are encouraged to participate in the 5K & 1K Walk/Run.

Rankin Cancer Run Committee Members will be on hand also during the night – selling their orange ‘Keep the Spirit’ wristbands and will answer questions for those wishing to get more involved. Race Fans can also visit www.rankincancerrun.com for further information.

May 13th’s event will also be the first event of the new season that representatives from Hooters of Niagara Falls will be in attendance.

The Pen Centre is located at HWY 406 and Glendale Avenue in St. Catharines and Store Hours are Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday from 9:30 to 6:00 and on Sundays from Noon to 6 PM. For further information visit www.thepencentre.com.

Merrittville Speedway is presenting its 55th consecutive season of dirt track excitement in 2006. For information on DIRT Weekly Racing Series events and upcoming specials call 905-892-8266 or visit www.merrittvilles p eedway.com.

Merrittville Speedway is located in Thorold Ontario on Merrittville Highway.

It’s Saturday Night … it’s Live and it’s Merrittville Speedway – the best family entertainment in Niagara!

Kevin Lacroix joins Walker Racing BMW team

Courtesy Service Presse

Saint-Eustache, Quebec, April 27. – Kevin Lacroix will have a busy weekend. Thursday and Friday, he will take to the track his Star Mazda rotary powered single seater for two days of extensive testing with Johnny Walko Racing (JWR), preparing for his maiden race in Houston in two weeks. He will fly overnight to South Carolina to join Haberfeld and Walker Racing who will be testing their Formula BMW USA racers at Carolina MotorSports. This team just joined the ladder development series in North America with two rookie drivers and they will use the experience of the 2005 runner-up to get more speed out of their cars.

“Testing with JWR has been going very well, says Kevin. The car is a lot of fun to drive and I got to speed very quickly when we tested at BeaveRun. In the next two days, we’re going to get down to specific tuning: this car has different tires and reaching the proper setup means working with my engineer and the crew. But I know we’re going to be ready for Houston.

I was happy to get a call from Derrick Walker to join their BMW team for the weekend. I want to thank him for his trust. The FB02 is a fine racing machine that needs a little time to understand and I’m going to work with Martin Bates and their two drivers David Rangel and Marco Santos to nurse their setups and get to full speed.’’

United States Rally Championship Events to be broadcast in High Definition on HDNet

Courtesy USRC Media

Laughlin, Nevada (April 26, 2006) The United States Rally Championship announced today plans for the four rounds of the 2006 Championship to be broadcast in high definition TV (HDTV) on the HDNet network.

Rally New York USA held April 7 and 8 in Monticello, New York was the first round of the 2006 United States Rally Championship taped for later broadcast. It will air shortly after the broadcast of the 2005 USRC season finale the Ramada Express International Rally airing this spring. The Subaru Rim of the World Rally, International Rally New York, and Laughlin International Rally are scheduled to follow in the late summer and early fall. Each rally’s program will be repeated in five separate broadcasts. Other events from the Championship maybe added to the schedule at a later date. Broadcasts dates and air times will be posted to the series web site as soon as they are announced.

HDNet is the leader in high definition broadcasting producing and televising more hours of original HDTV sports, entertainment and news programming each week than any other network. Other HDNet sports productions include National Hockey League games, Major League Soccer games, NASCAR Grand National Division auto racing, and The Race of Champions from Paris. HDNet is available on Adelphia Communications, Charter Communications, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight Communications, Mediacom Communications, Time Warner Cable and several National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC) cable affiliate companies.

The United States Rally Championship, America’s premier rally championship, consists of Federation Internationale de L’Automobile (FIA) internationally listed events sanctioned by the United States Auto Club (USAC) and presented by the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). More information on the Championship is available at the series website at www.usrallychampionship.com. More information on USAC is available at www.usacracing.com, on NASA at www.nasarallysport.com and on FIA at www.fia.com.

Paul Tracy American Crew/Sport Clips Racing Talladega Pre-Race Notes Paul Tracy on Talladega Superspeedway:

“I’m really looking forward to going to Talladega,” Paul said. “It’s one of those historic race tracks and my understanding is that it’s resemblant of Daytona and I had a lot of fun at Daytona in February. I love the draft and at Daytona I quickly made it into the Top 10 before I was spun. Even then, we were able to make up three laps and finish on the Lead Lap in 24th. Dave Fuge (crew chief) does a great job of preparing the cars and the team has always done a great job of supporting me, so we should be pretty good.” He continued, “I really want to thank American Crew and Sport Clips for giving me the opportunity to get back in the car again. We’ve been able to build some brand awareness for both these guys and Talladega will only contribute to the extensive coverage we’ve already received.”

Paul Tracy on Restrictor Plate Racing:
“It was something different for me to learn, but it has been fun. As Mike Wallace says, the draft is the great equalizer and it allows you to run from the back to the front pretty quick, but it also can send you from the front to the back as well. I talked a lot with Mike Wallace, who is one of the best plate racers around, before Daytona and it seems like you need to have patience and be in the right place; you really have to pay attention to who is going where and what line they are running. I can't wait to get back out there and start mixing it up and get back to the front like we did at Daytona.”

Paul Tracy on his experience at Daytona:
“At Daytona, I accomplished what I went there for,” said Tracy. “I ran from the back to the front and hopefully gained the respect of the other drivers. All I wanted to do was go down there and get some experience and learn everything I could about driving a stock car. I had a lot of fun and I'm looking forward to Talladega this weekend.”

Paul Tracy on the ‘hanging out in the back’ philosophy:
“At Daytona and Talladega you always have guys whose philosophy is to hang out in the back and wait for the wrecks to happen. I've never hung out in the back in my entire career and I'm not going to start next week at Talladega. At Daytona, I missed a lot of wrecks by going to the front. You never saw Dale Earnhardt hang out in the back, so I’m not hanging out in the back,” he said.

Sponsors: American Crew & Sport Clips
American Crew continues to lead the way in the men’s grooming business. With a passionate commitment to men’s grooming, their purpose is to bring men into salons, provide them with a great new experience and show them new ways of incorporating style into their everyday lives. American Crew recognizes the growing number of men that are concerned with their appearance and who want to look their very best. This trend of image-conscious men spans all ages and backgrounds. American Crew has all of their grooming interests in mind. For more information on American Crew, please visit www.AmericanCrew.com.

Sport Clips, Inc. is a Georgetown, TX-based enterprise that currently has 330 stores in 28 states. Targeting men and boys, Sport Clips provides high-quality haircuts in a fun sports environment, complete with TVs at every Stylist’s station tuned to sports. Every Sport Clips has “guy smart” Stylists who focus on providing the highest level of service to every client. Sport Clips is the Official Haircutter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), whose logo will be prominently featured on Tracy’s car. For a location near you or for franchise information, please visit: www.SportClips.com.

You can learn more about Paul Tracy by visiting www.paultracy.com.

From www.pmifirm.com

CARQUEST TOUR DRIVERS HEADING SOUTH

Courtesy Ken Cunning

Five CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour drivers are making the trip to Oxford Plains Speedway, ME for the April 29th running of the New England Dodge Dealers 150, the first race of the PASS North season.

2005 CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour Champion Rollie MacDonald (Pictou, NS) leads his fellow drivers Shawn Tucker, (Fredericton, NB), Shawn Turple (Enfield, NS), Mike MacKenzie (Dartmouth, NS) and John Flemming (Halifax, NS) to the historic oval. These drivers represent three Championships, a number of second place finishes and a Rookie Of The Year winner. Like modern day Border Bandits, they are attempting to cross the border, capture the spoils of the race and return home.

“I haven’t been to Oxford for about 10 years. We ran well in Beech Ridge last September, so I want to see how competitive we are at Oxford” MacDonald said. “If we can run with them, we’ll head down for the 250 in July.”

“We want to see where we fit.” said Tucker, who started his racing career on the US side of the border. “It will give us a chance to get the car set-up for the 250.”

Having a PASS race at Oxford precede both the CARQUEST Tour season and the famous Oxford 250, gives Maritime drivers an almost free opportunity to run at Oxford Speedway with all information learned to be used at the 250. All the drivers commented on the difficulty of being successful at Oxford, but that is part of the lure.

“We had back luck in 2005, with flat tires taking us out of races, maybe running at Oxford will change our luck” said MacKenzie, who has raced the 250 at Oxford a number of times in past years.

With nearly 4,000 locations in North America, CARQUEST Auto Parts supplies the professional automotive service repair industry as well as do-it-yourselfers with replacement parts, tools and equipment.

The CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour is operated by Maritime Pro Stock Tour Limited and features an 11-race series at five different tracks in the three Maritime Provinces. Top drivers from all three provinces compete including former champions Rollie MacDonald, Shawn Tucker, John Flemming and Wayne Smith compete for the coveted Championship title. For more information on the CARQUEST Pro Stock Tour please visit MaritimeProStockTour.com or call our admin office Monday to Friday at (902) 481-2531.

Win at VIR puts Jamie Holtom, Chevy into Championship Leads

Courtesy Josh Kive

Driving with Eric Curran, Jamie Holtom won his first race of the year last weekend in the Grand-Am Cup 200 at the infamous VIRginia International Raceway, where weather along with an 84-car field made for interesting, strategic racing.

“Having so many cars on the track all at once in the rain made for some very interesting racing. Luckily we were able to survive the carnage and give the car to Eric in without a scratch on it for the second half of the race.”, Jamie said, “Georgian Bay Motorsports and the guys from the GM Performance Division did an awesome job calling the strategy, giving us the best possible track position so we didn’t have to take too many chances out on the track.”

In a race in which the majority of the time spent was under Full-Course-Yellow conditions, survival was the key. At the start Jamie held position and waited for the race to come to him.

“I knew the race was going to ‘go yellow’ early and often so I just drove my own race and kept the car up front. Our goal for the weekend was to get as many points as possible for Chevrolet in the manufacturers chase. It’s too bad that qualifying was rained out. The guys from GBMS and GM had the 01 ClearSCADA Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged on rails in the rain; I know we could have challenged for pole.”

After placing fourth at the season opener in Daytona, the win in Virginia puts Chevrolet into the lead of the Manufacturers Championship and Holtom and Curran into the Drivers Championship points lead.

“With Georgian Bay Motorsports and the GM Performance Division working on our cars, I always know that my Chevy Cobalt SS Supercharged will be dynamite. It’s great that Eric and I can reward their hard work by giving them the Manufacturers, Team and Drivers Championship lead early in the season.”, stated Holtom.

This win marks Jamie’s third in Grand-Am Cup competition.

The next event for the Jamie and Eric will be at the U.S. Sports Car Invitational the weekend of May 5 -7 at Laguna Seca Raceway, in Monterey, California, where they look to solidify their leads in the Drivers, Manufacturers and Team Championships.

Ontario Formula Ford Challenge News

Please welcome with me two new volunteer additions to the Ontario Formula Ford Challenge BARC Management Team, they are Ralph Klingmann and Gary Shortt.

Ralph will be the Chief Scorer in the Control Tower with CTA. Ralph is the head of CTA and brings with him a vast knowledge of timing and scoring. Any and all scoring issues will go through Ralph.

Also joining the team is Gary Short as Safety Director. Gary's primary function will be helping out in pit lane and all safety issues that arise at the tracks. Gary will also assist David Bayley in Tech Department. Gary Shortt has years of experience in Motorsports and is also President and CEO of Shortt's Motorsports Support.

I know everyone will welcome the newest members of your team at our season opener, June 3 & 4 at Shannonville.

Thanks,

David P. Hilton
V.P. BARC
Ontario Formula Ford Challenge Marketing and Promotion Manager

Zagato Ferrari 575 GTZ

Undoubtedly, the biggest highlight of the 2006 Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza was the world premiere of the Zagato built, Ferrari 575 GTZ which draws back to the historic Ferrari 250 GTZ from the late 50’s.

This unique, Ferrari 575M Maranello based, exotic was custom ordered by the famous Japanese Ferrari collector, Mr. Hayashi. Zagato redesigned every exterior panel with the car body being completely custom-built from aluminium. The final car took around five months to construct, but each successive car will take closer to two months to build as the first car is always the most difficult and demanding in terms of construction.

The interior of the 575 GTZ remains largely based on the 575 M Maranello, however it has been exquisitely re-trimmed in custom leather. Technically, the car remains the same as the standard 575M Maranello, something that was required by Ferrari for the car to carry the “Prancing Horse” badge.

Zagato Press Release:
Two months ago at Geneva, we surprised almost everyone by presenting a 1956 Ferrari 250 GTZ on our stand, rated as the tenth most sought after car amongst collectors and, perhaps, the most valuable car in the show.

Until now, no details have been released regarding our latest car, except for the fact that it is destined for a famous Japanese Ferrari collector. Your press pack contains the first official photo of the car together with its proud owner.

At Villa d’Este, the Ferrari 575 GTZ will be making its debut. The car, commissioned by Mr.Hayashi, is inspired by the 1956 250 GTZ, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The bold decision not to present the car at Geneva was made in light of the fact that a true handcrafted gem such as this Ferrari Zagato would be in its ideal element at Villa d’Este.

This is also a tribute to the rebirth of the Italian Concours d’Elegance which, it is my sincere hope, will be repeated over the years to come.”

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2006 Toyota Avensis Facelift

ALTHOUGH Toyota tried hard to keep it a secret, unfortunately, the first photographs of the 2006 facelifted Avensis have leaked in the internet.

The light restyling seems to be concentrated at the front end which looks a bit more dynamic thanks to the redesigned bumper, the different light clusters and the new mask. Also, the turning lights are now incorporated in the exterior mirrors.

In the cabin, among others, the facelifted Avensis gets better quality plastics and a refreshed centre console which stacks a new MP3 system.

As for driving dynamics, changes in the design of the rear axle promise to improve Avensis’s mediocre road handling. Finally, the 2.0 Turbo Diesel gets a power lift, producing 125 Hp (from 116 Hp). Sales of the facelifted Avensis should start in Europe at the end of June.

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New Sports Pack for Aston Martin DB9 Coupe

From July, Aston Martin will offer the option of a factory fitted ‘Sports Pack’ specification for the DB9 Coupe, combining revised suspension characteristics with a new alloy wheel design to give subtly different driving dynamics.

The new five-spoke forged aluminium alloy wheels are lighter than the standard wheels, the springs and front anti-roll bar are modified and the ride height lowered.

Taking the DB9’s VH architecture as its foundation and retuning some of its key components, the DB9 Sports Pack offers an even more focussed driving experience, with improvements to both high-speed body control and steering response. That means a DB9 Coupe specifically for the enthusiastic driver with a high level of driving skill, who likes to drive quickly, safely and with precision.

The first key to the sharper dynamic balance is a significant reduction in ‘unsprung’ mass which indirectly allows the suspension to react more quickly to inputs such as bumps and cornering forces – resulting in improved grip, steering response, body control and ride quality.

With the DB9 Sports Pack, each five-spoke light alloy wheel gives an unsprung weight saving of more than 1kg, with a small but significant additional saving from the use of titanium wheel nuts. In total, that equates to more than five per cent reduction in unsprung weight on each corner of the car. The new, lighter 19-inch wheels are the same size as the standard wheel and use the same Bridgestone tyre.

The DB9 Sports Pack’s spring rates are increased by 68 per cent at the front of the car and 64 per cent at the rear. The front anti-roll bar is modified, and the dampers are revised to support the new spring and anti-roll bar characteristics. Together, the changes optimise body control and front-end grip without compromising ride quality or adding weight. The ride height is reduced by 6mm, lowering the car’s centre of gravity and further reducing body roll while leaving ample ground clearance and backed up by modified bump stops.

The composite undertray is also replaced, by a load-bearing aluminium panel that performs the same function in managing underbody airflow while adding further structural stiffness, to resist larger lateral loads fed into the front of the car by the uprated front springs and anti-roll bar.

The cumulative effect is significantly improved dynamic response, and especially steering feel - making the DB9 feel lighter, more positive on turn-in, more agile and more involving for the enthusiastic driver. Body control is especially enhanced during high speed manoeuvres, giving the DB9 a more neutral handling feel.

Aston Martin Sales & Marketing Director, Bill Donnelly, says: "This optional Sports Pack will offer driving enthusiasts the opportunity to tailor their DB9 Coupe to deliver an even more rewarding dynamic experience. The Sports Pack offers another addition to the Aston Martin range and provides customers with an even greater choice and the ability to further personalise their DB9."

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