Spotted: Land Rover Tests new Range Rover 2012

These shots reveal Land Rover testing their new Range Rover 2012, in full camouflage, in the deserts of Dubai that is being developed at Land Rover’s global headquarters in Warwickshire, UK. These photos will put any enthusiasts at ease who may be concerned that Land Rover could be loosing their off-road focus because if there is any place that tests the toughness and resilience of an out-door vehicle its the desert.

The new Range Rover is likely to showcase all the latest in engineering from the Tata owned 4X4 specialist. The new architecture will be aluminium intensive, increased interior space, a focus on upmarket cabin appointments and a suite of upgraded V6 and V8 engines that will provide the power, with a hybrid electrified powertrain to follow.

This new Range Rover is expected to be revealed in about six months time for the UK summer of 2012.

Chevrolet’s 2013 Camaro Convertible

General Motors is set to unveil the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The vehicle, mechanically similar to that of the hard-top muscle-car version, is arguably one of the most powerful topless cars in the world. Like the coupe, the convertible will pack 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque from its supercharged 6.2-litre LSA V8.

The Camaro will also offer Performance Traction Management as part of the Magnetic Selective Ride Control, which is exclusive to General Motors. Finalized performance figures have yet to be announced, but GM says to expect almost identical performance metrics to the ZL1 Coupe.

General Motors has made some changes to the body structure with additional reinforcements that include a front X brace and rear V brace, underbody tunnel brace and tower-to-tower brace under the hood and  a transmission support reinforcement brace.

Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer said that: “The Camaro ZL1 convertible will be one of the most powerful and most capable, convertibles available at any price. “This is a car that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you drop the top – or hit the gas.”

The Chevrolet Camaro Coupe is scheduled to go on sale in early 2012 with the ZL1 Convertible expected to follow soon after.

Lexus LF LC Concept Leaked

The image above, reveals the new Lexus LF LC concept car expected to be officially unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January. Top Gear have reported that all they know for certain about the new model is that it’s been created at the company’s California design studio, the same place where the original SC430 was drawn.
The new concept is about the same size as the SC and also has two doors but it differs in that there is a pair of seats in the back. The image also suggests that it has a targa top and while Lexus have yet to confirm, it is possible that the new concept is a rear wheel drive and the spacious body work could be wrapped around the Toyota GT 86 platform.

Lexus IS F Circuit Club Sport

Lexus handed its already fast IS F over to the go-fast team at Toyota Racing Development and produced the IS F Circuit Club Sport where the sport sedan received a variety of mechanical and aero adjustments and improvements. Lexus first unveiled the concept at the 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon, with some further details following on this year.

The exterior of the vehicle has been fitted with a new carbon fibre front spoiler, rear diffuser and hood, also made from the light-weight material. Along with its large rear wing, the luxury bruiser also comes equipped with lightweight forged aluminum wheels while a choice of magnesium rollers are also available. To improve handling, Toyota offers various solutions for the suspension including stabilizers and different shocks, better brake pads and a titanium muffler.


The package also offers a performance damper kit offering buyers two separate settings that independently adjust compression.

The date at which this new Lexus sport will be available and the price tag to accompany it have not yet been revealed.

Toyota Launches Aqua/Prius C in Japan

Toyota Motor Company has recently launched the Aqua hatchback, known as the Prius C in international markets, in Japan.
The entry level hybrid prides itself on a fuel efficiency of 35.4 km/L (83.3 mpg US; 2.8L/ 100km). Powered by a 1.5-litre Toyota Hybrid System II (THS II), the Aqua produces a combined motor and engine output of 100 PS (98 bhp / 73 kW). For improved engine efficieny, the vehicle features a cooled Exhaust-Gas Recirculation system and a battery powered water pump. The water pump, unlike other traditional designs, reduces friction on the engine and allows precise control of coolant flow.

The Aqua has a starting price of 1.69 million yen ($21,700) and Toyota Motor Company has plans to sell 12,000 units per month.

In addition, Toyota as also announced that it will be launching additional TRD and Modellista versions of the new hybrid.  For the TRD there is a new front bumper lower apron with integrated LED lights and side skirts. Also available are a new set of wheels, firmer shock absorbers and springs plus a stainless cat-back exhaust system with dual tips. While the Modellista package offering is similar to that of the TRD, there are two versions available each offering a 5-piece body kits containing front and rear aprons, side skirts and roof spoiler.

Hennessey rolls out 800-hp twin-turbo Jeep Grand Cherokee

Eight-hundred horsepower. 0-60 in 3.1 seconds. $235,000. Given those numbers, you'd think we were talking about a supercar, right? Well we are, if by supercar you mean something with otherworldly performance capabilities. But this is no two-seat roadster. This is a Jeep.

To be more specific, this is the latest Hennessey HPE800 Twin Turbo, a new rocket sled based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. That model usually packs a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 – which is already big by any measure – but Hennessey's bored it out to a nice round 7.0 liters and bolted a pair of turbochargers to it.

Along with the substantial engine mods, the HPE800 also gets an upgraded transmission and torque converted (it is a conventional automatic, after all), plus 20-inch wheels on a lowered suspension with 15.1-inch Brembo brakes, and a reworked fascia with a carbon fiber splitter up front.

Of course, if the high price of entry doesn't keep out the riffraff, the limited quantities being built surely will: only 24 examples are earmarked for production, so even at the pace at which these beasts will cover all manner of terrain, they're not likely to run into one another once they've left the factory.

Honda is the most “pothole proof” says UK survey

A recent survey conducted in the UK by Warranty Direct, claims that Honda is responsible for making vehicles that are the most pothole proof and therefore less susceptible to any damage that may be caused by potholes on the roads.

According to the results of the survey, only 1.4 percent of Honda owners submit a warranty claim fore repairing damage caused by potholes. In comparison, 12.2 percent of Chrysler owners submit claims alongside luxury car makers Land Rover, BMW, Mercedes Benz and Jaguar who also find themselves the least pothole resilient. If you’re curious about which brand took second place in the most claims submitted, you may be surprised to know that it is Smart.

Toyota, Hyundai, Kia and Nissan, the more economical brands of car manufacturers, all fare well against rough surfaces on the roads. The reason for this may be due to the likelihood that most luxury vehicles are fitted with low-profile tyres but expensive wheels that can easily bend or break while the above vehicles mentioned have more substantial sidewalls and sturdy steel wheels.

Ford Teases Fusion with New App

Ford is teasing its 2013 Fusion via mobile apps which fans can download for iPhone or Android by pointing the camera of the device at the Ford logo either from a car, online or an image in a magazine. Once the the app has read the logo, it activates a 360 degree version of the new model, which users can use for a virtual driving course.

The app will offer new courses and video clips featuring interviews from the creators of the car every day from Wednesday until the hybrid vehicle is revealed at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. As expected, Users can also share photos from the app via Twitter and Facebook.

Ford’s goal is to keep enthusiasts and fans engaged, active and creating a buzz on social networks as part of the build up to the car’s launch while still maintaining some secrecy of the car’s look and design details.

As part of Ford’s latest strategy, the auto manufacturer is hoping that the mobile app will have the same wow factor that social networks did two years ago.

Honda’s new Acura NSX supercar concept

Honda has officially confirmed that it will be showcasing its new NSX supercar concept at the upcoming Detroit Motor Show in January 2012. The next-generation Acura NSX supercar will be one of four all-new vehicles revealed by Honda next year.

 

Audi’s Limited Edition A1 Quattro

Audi has just announced the introduction of the Limited Edition 252-hp A1 Quattro, a high-performance version of the German Automaker’s subcompact hatch.

“the A1 Quattro comes equipped with the automaker’s legendary all-wheel-drive system, with power provided by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder used in the S3. The reworked mill puts out 252 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm – a boost of more than 70 hp and 74 lb-ft over the standard 1.4-liter A1.”

The wheel wells are filled with a modified MacPherson strut suspension in the front and at the rear, a multi-link setup. The braking system has been upgraded with larger discs at all four corners with black painted calipers. The electromechanical steering has also been adjusted to provide a 14.8:1 ratio and the ESP has been modified for high-performance duty.

The exterior is inspired by other past Audi concepts as well as the S and RS lines. The interior showcases a new instrument panel, aluminum pedals and black leather with red stitching.
The A1 is expected to go on sale next year with only 333 units available.

2013 Kia GT to produce coupe and wagon

There have been rumours circulating that Kia was planning to build a production version of its GT concept but a new report but a new report has indicated that the new model could also be available in a wagon and coupe variant.

Citing anonymous sources, Inside Line reported that Kia is considering a series of GT-based vehicles rather than a single sedan or hatchback. The aim of this decision is likely to assist Kia in spreading out development costs while allowing the model to target a wider range of consumers.
While no date has been confirmed for the launch dates of the coupe and wagon, the standard model could be available in 2013.

Mercedes SL 2012 First Pictures

Here are the first images of the Mercedes’ sixth generation premium roadster – the 2012 Mercedes SL.
The SL is all-new. The current version of Mercedes’ flagship coupe-cabriolet, the R230, was first launched in 2002 and has since undergone a few facelifts, each of which has slightly increased the vehicles’s look of aggressiveness. In terms of style, this SL moves further in that direction, but changes under the skin help it shed significant bulk. Mercedes claims that the new model, codenamed R231, is up to 140kg lighter than its predecessor, that weighed in at 1970kg depending on the specifications. Weight-loss has been achieved through the extensive use of light-weight aluminium in the body-shell with steel only being used for rollover protection in the A-pillars.

The SL has Sculpted flanks and SLS-aping vents with chromed fins while the rear is dominated by oversized CLS-alike wrap-around tail lights extending into the hind quarters. Mercedes claims the new SL is the most aerodynamic car in its sector assisting with noise suppression even if the roof is down.

Saab Files for Bankruptcy

Saab is officially bankrupt, Parent company Swedish Automobile announced today. The company has been in trouble since April, when it ran out of cash, couldn’t pay its suppliers and had to stop building cars. However, after eight months of negotiations it looked as if Saab was going to be saved after a sale was agreed with Chinese manufacturer Youngman and distributor Pang Da. Unfortunately that very deal fell through, triggering the bankruptcy.  The deal was primarily called off due to General Motor’s refusal to have their designs and technology used by the Chinese. General Motors spokesman Jim Cain told Automotive News that Saab had not been able to reassure GM that its technology would be safe in the sale to the Chinese.

Nissan Juke-R’s First Prototype Pic

As you’ll recall earlier in the month, Nissan revealed images of the Juke-R crossover concept car,  a mashup of the Juke and the GT-R. Now, Nissan has revealed the first picture of the completed vehicle as a surprise unveiling in front of members of the press at a demo event in Spain.

As you can see by the finished protoype, the body of the original Juke had to be completely reassembled to accommodate the advanced all-wheel-drive system, twin-clutch transmission and 3.8-litre twin-turbo 480-horsepower V6 engine resulting in a body that has been extended and manipulated and is now the Juke-R. The new frame looks as aggressive and powerful on the outside as it is on the inside.
Nisssan will be building two road-going versions of the Juke-R (one left and one right-hand drive) to be finished in November.

BMW M3 sedan could arrive before coupe

Whether it’s the stunning coupe or the practical sedan version, it’s a brilliantly engaging drive, which is set to be improved upon by the release of the 2012 model. But in a first for the brand, the four-door M3 could be released before its coupe equivalent.

Speaking with CarAdvice today, BMW spokesperson Piers Scott said that it  “it is not clear at this stage, but the sedan may arrive before coupe”. It would make sense, given the 2012 3 Series sedan has just been revealed, while the coupe version, which will probably be named the 4 Series, will be launched later on.
The engine, which will probably be a turbo-charged six-cylinder, will undoubtedly be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or a six-speed manual and will slot into both sedan and coupe offerings. Power is expected to be around 335kW, comfortably outgunning the current 309kW V8
.

Our spy photographers have caught the M3 Sedan in late testing phase, so it should be mid-next year that we get details on what the M3 holds. Like previous M cars, we may see a concept version a short time before production is announced.

Mazda Takeri Concept 2011

Ahead of its global debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in November, Mazda has released the first images of its Takeri concept car 2011.
The swooping mid-sized saloon is the latest recipient of the Japanese marque’s Kodo design language, that made its debut in production form on the all-new CX-5 compact crossover. Translated as “soul of motion” the Takeri reveals some details about the possible styling of the upcoming Mazda 6 range, expected in 2012.
Images show a three box saloon with voluptuous curves augmenting its bodywork and while the nose resembles that of a recent Mercedes concept, the design presented is distinctive.
Through a series of advancements in powertrain, chassis and body technology, the Takeri utilises Mazda’s SkyActiv Technology, including its regenerative breaking system, that aims to reduce fuel consumption. The technology makes for an economic ride by converting kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration, storing it in capacitors and using it to power the vehicle electrically. The power of the Takeri’s SkyActiv-D engine provides a comfortable, lightweight and aerodynamic drive.

Audi RS4 Avant Spied

 

The new Audi RS4 Avant 2012 was spied in full camouflage at the Nurburgring. The new model, which Audi is currently putting the finishing touches on, is set to be launched in May 2012.
There is no change in the RS4′s engine in comparison to the RS5 and so the 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 will enable the RS4 with 331 kW and 430 N.m. of torque to reach a speed of 100 km/h in under 5 seconds with a a seven-speed twin-clutch transmission
The front bumper will be more aggressive with large air intakes and wider fenders.

New Audi A4, S4 & A4 Quattro

The Audi A4 series has been updated with the new A4 Sedan, A4 Avant, A4 Allroad Quattro and S4 for 2013. Audi’s A4 has been the German auto manufacturer’s best seller for 39 years and is in its eighth generation. The A4 has been updated with reused sheet metal and powertrains to keep it at the forefront of the entry level luxury car arena.

Audi reveals first shots of 2012 LMP1 car as public tests begin

Audi has begun the first public tests of its 2012 LMP1 car ahead of the new World Endurance Championship.
The team did not reveal any details of the machine, the differences to 2011's R18 or the car's designation at this stage.

After conducting initial tests in private, Audi is in action at Sebring, venue for the 2012 WEC opener in March, this weekend.



Two cars are in use, shared between drivers Marcel Fassler, Andre Lotterer, Benoit Treluyer, Dindo Capello, Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish.

Audi won the Le Mans 24 Hours this year with Fassler, Lotterer, and Treluyer, but was beaten to the title by Peugeot in the Intercontinental Le Mans Cup, forerunner of the WEC.

In addition to developments to assist in its battle with Peugeot, the new car will also feature the latest adjustments to the technical rules - particularly around the wheel covers - designed to prevent cars getting airborne in accidents.

Seat Mii City Car Unveiled

The Seat Mii is Volkswagen’s third and final variant of the car manufacturer’s city car project with the Spanish Up. The new Mii will showcase the Spanish offering alongside the German and Czech versions of the Volkswagen Up. This particular city car is expected to launch Seat back into the small car segment since it abandoned the production of the Arosa back in 2005.

The Mii measures just 3550mm long with a boot volume of 251 litres and will be initially sold as a three door until the availability of a five door model later in 2012.
There is a choice of a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine with either 59bhp or 74bhp. Weighing just 854kg, the addition of the Ecomotive pack, which includes stop-start and energy recuperation, brings the CO2 output down to 97g/km. In standard form however, the two motors are understood to produce 105 and 108g/km of CO2.

Additional features include a City Safety Assist system, which uses a laser to detect vehicles in front of the car and at speeds under 20mph will warn the driver of a possible collision and apply the brakes automatically.

The Seat Mii differentiates itself from the VW and Skoda with shallower glass, a conventional body-colour lower half and a new set of distinctive triangular rear lights.
The Mii is expected to cost just under £8000 in entry-level form.

Mercedes-Benz working on straight-six engines

Mercedes-Benz is mulling a range of new engine configurations, according to CAR Magazine, including a new straight six. The news comes courtesy of an unnamed engineer who also said that the German automaker is currently planning a range of smaller-displacement, forced-induction V8 engines, as well as a larger selection of four-cylinder options.

The company's larger vehicles will subsist on straight-six power moving forward, if the report turns out to be accurate. Buyers will conceivably be able to choose between single- and twin-turbocharged configurations depending on their power demands.

The report doesn't mention exactly when we can expect to see these new engines in production vehicles, and with no specifics on application, displacement, fuel economy or horsepower, we have to imagine that the program is in its infancy at this point.

The Exclusive 2012 Lexus LFA

Lexus is entering into the exclusive sports car market with its new 2012 LFA. The production of the new car will be limited to only 500 worldwide and at a price of about $375,000 Lexus are being very selective about who they sell their new model to. This won’t be an easy car to add to your collection.
Lexus manufacturer, Toyota where concerned about the LFA’s weight savings and so the engineers chose specified aluminum alloy construction over traditional steel but when it was discovered that the aluminium would not enable them to achieve the desired lightweight objectives, they decided on carbon fibre as the material of choice. Expensive and difficult to work with, the automaker relied on its 150-year-old textile manufacturing experience to cast and mold the material to specifications.

The LFA offers a 6-speed sequential transmission, front-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe with carbon fibre composite making up most of the chassis and body. The LFA weighs 3263 lbs and features a 4.8-litre V-10 that produces 553 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Gear changes are electronically managed, with instruction sent to a rear transaxle gearbox containing a single-clutch automated sequential transmission as a dual-clutch design wasn’t possible with the LFA.
While the interior is a mix of carbon fibre, aluminum, leather and soft Alcantara covering nearly every surface, there is a noticeable lack of cup holders, storage nooks and cruise control.
The Lexus website states that “the LFA marks a special milestone for the Lexus brand. A new flagship at top the F Portfolio, The LFA brings a distinctively different flavour to Lexus.”

Spied: 2012 Porsche Boxster S

The new Porshce Boxster was recently spied while being taken for a test drive, undisguised and in broad daylight. The picture provides a clear view of the model’s lines and detail with its sharp side strakes, side air inlets and prominent wheel arches. The rear of the vehicle sees a new integrated lip spoiler that spans right across the car’s rump, bisecting the taillamps.
Provided by some forced induction and a few tweaks, the 2.5-litre flat-4-cylinder engine could generate as much as 360hp under the hood.
The model is expected to make its official debut around the beginning of 2012.

11 Supercars of African President Seized

11 Super cars belonging to the president of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, were seized in Paris by the French National Police. The reason for the incident has yet to be confirmed but it may very well have something to do with the widespread  investigation the president is currently undergoing. The judicial inquiry by the Supreme Court of France is looking into Obiang’s use of the country’s state funds to purchase private property in France.
Among the vehicles seized, with a total value of more than $5 million Dollars, are two Bugatti Veyrons, a Maserati MC12, a Porsche Carrera GT, a Ferrari Enzo, a Ferrari 599 GTO,  an Aston Martin V8 V600 LM, a Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe and Bentleys.
The fate of this magnificent collection is unknown but there’s a good chance they will be auctioned by the French government.

Citroen 3CV to make a return in 2013

Citroen is said to be working on a new Citroen 3CV model inspired by the original Citroen 2CV and 3CV. The new model will slot between the Citroen C1 and the larger Citroen C3 hatch.

The Citroen 3CV, or Trois Chevaux, was a people’s car which offered surprising levels of interior space and practicality while also showcasing a very cushy and comfy ride. The new Citroen 3CV will offer similar traits only in a more funky DS3-style layout.
It’s understood the new Citroen 3CV will be built on the PSA PF1 platform, which underpins various small Peugeot and Citroen hatches. It will also use a hybrid powertrain, possibly being the first hybrid to ever be formed from the French platform.
As for the styling, it’s a bit too early for concrete details but the new Citroen 3CV design could take inspiration from the Citroen REVOLTe Hybrid Concept first shown at the 2009 Paris Motor Show. Jean-Marc Gales, chief of PSA, recently said in a CAR report,

“This car is all about wellbeing. It devotes abundant space to the passengers, is so relaxed that we may even cap the top speed, and will be a style statement in the best tradition of the brand.”

As mentioned, the new model is said to join the lineup some time in 2013. We’ll keep you updated with official details as soon as they are released. What do you think? Is there appeal?

Women at greater risk of injury in crashes

The American Journal of Public Health has published a new study on the role of gender in auto accidents. The results indicate that women are more likely to be injured than men when involved in comparable crashes. Researchers say that when wearing seat belts, female drivers have a higher risk of chest and spinal injuries.

Testing ban hurting Schumacher

Michael Schumacher said that his comeback hasn't been so successful because of the lack of in-season testing in Formula One.

Schumacher returned to the sport at the start of 2010 following a three-year absence, but has yet to stand on the podium.



Although the Mercedes has not been quick enough to challenge for race wins, Nico Rosberg has scored three podiums in that time and has beaten his team-mate in both seasons so far. Schumacher admitted that he thought he would be more successful when he returned, but said that the lack of testing means he struggles to get on top of the tyres.


"Some have questioned whether my mood has changed. It would be nice if outsiders didn't make guesses without knowing," Schumacher told Corriere della Sera. "I thought that I might be (on the podium) at least a couple of times. Together we have to work hard to improve performance but we are not afraid of that.

"In F1 there are no magic wands. In the past we did a lot of testing. Today not, so I have had some problems with the tyres. I have not learned how to interpret them correctly. Previously I came to the race weekend knowing what was coming. Now the tests don't come until Friday and I am still getting used to this system."

Despite his problems, 2011 was a clear improvement for Schumacher - whose contract runs out at the end of 2012 - and he's yet to rule out an extension to his deal.
"Will I be here in 2013? There is no hurry yet to think about it."

Ferrari to debut new car at first test

Ferrari has confirmed that it will launch its new car for 2012 in time for the first test at Jerez on February 7.

Traditionally the first to unveil its new car each year, Ferrari still plans on being ready despite new regulations that state the cars must have passed all FIA crash tests and homologation before testing.




The news comes after Mercedes announced it would wait until the second test to run its new car, while Red Bull is also aiming for the first test.

Ferrari's communications director Luca Colajanni said that the new car would be "very different" from this year's F150th Italia, which only took one victory.

"The new Ferrari F1 car will be presented in early February, in time to take part in the first test session ahead of the season," Colajanni told Autosprint. "At the moment it's not important to say whether the new project is going to be extreme.

For sure, it will be a clean break with the past, a very different program, because it aims to win and it marks a change of mentality by the entire team."

The New BMW 3 Series 2012

BMW has just launched the brand new 3 Series sedan that is expected to reach worldwide markets in February 2012. Although the sixth generation 3 series F30 has grown in size offering a slightly longer wheelbase, a wider track and some extra rear legroom, BMW are adamant that the new model is up to 45kg lighter than its predecessor, depending on the engine of course.
At the launch, BWM will be offering  two diesel (120kW 320d EfficientDynamics and 135kW 320d) as well as two petrol (180kW 328i and 225kW 335i) variants. All of these variants will benefit from BMW TwinPower technology, which combines power with reduced overall fuel consumption.
The new sixth generation family will be available in a saloon (F30) first, a 3-series Touring estate (F31), a 3-series Coupe (F32) and then later a Convertible (F33).


Exciting technology can be found in the new Driving Experience Control system that allows the driver to customize the behaviour of the vehicle to suit certain driving conditions. In addition to the driver being able to switch between Comfort, Sport and Sport + settings that set engine, throttle and suspension maps accordingly, there is also an Eco Pro mode, which enables additional fuel savings of up to 20% an important aspect for BMW.

New to the 3 Series is the latest-generation full-colour Head-Up Display, which projects key information onto the car’s windscreen so the driver can look directly at it. Also available is Surround View with Side View and Top View that provides a bird’s eye view of the car. A parking assistance system also helps the driver to maneuver into basic and tricky spaces.

Pricing for the new 3 Series ranges between 35,350 euros (about R390, 000) for the 320d and 43,600 euros (about R480, 000) for the 335i.

Bahar defends Renault approach

Dany Bahar, chief executive of the Lotus Group, has defended Renault's approach to its drivers after Kimi Raikkonen hurt his wrist in a skidoo accident.

Renault came in for criticism at the start of 2011 for allowing Robert Kubica to go rallying after he was seriously injured in an accident in Italy.




Kubica is yet to return to Formula One, and Raikkonen had been signed as Renault's lead driver in 2012 when he fell off a skidoo in a race in Austria and hurt his wrist. While the injury is not thought to be serious, Bahar was forced to defend the way the team manages its drivers.


"It is part of our job to do things that are risky, we do it commercially and corporately, Kimi does it in his own life," Bahar is quoted by Reuters. "Kimi is Kimi and it will be difficult to change the way he lives."

Bahar also told Turun Sanomat that the team was willing to give Raikkonen time to become competitive again as long as he applies himself correctly.

"Whether it takes three days, six races or 20 races, remains to be seen. The important thing is that Kimi steadily improves. As long as this happens, we give him time ... He has grown up, he is no longer young. He knows what he is doing and what is expected of him. I believe he will take things a little more seriously."

Hamilton defends management team

Lewis Hamilton has defended his management team after Bernie Ecclestone branded the way he was being managed a "disaster".

 

 Hamilton signed with XIX Entertainment in early 2011 having split from his father Anthony the year before. However, after a difficult year in which off-track issues appeared to be affecting Hamilton's performance in races, Ecclestone said that his management team was not a good fit and that "I think he just fell into a lot of people that I think weren't good for him".

But Hamilton told The Guardian  that the criticism was "massively unfair", and that he's been more in control of the situation than it may appear to some outsiders.

"[It's] my fault really," Hamilton said. "They've wanted to be here every single race, they've been nothing but supportive. I control it and I decided not to have them at every race because I wanted to be on my own at some races. For the future I'll have them at every race."

Ecclestone slams Hamilton's managers

Bernie Ecclestone believes Lewis Hamilton was better off with his father managing him than his current arrangement with Simon Fuller's XIX management.

In an interview with the Guardian, Ecclestone described Hamilton's decision to sign with XIX management, which looks after celebrities such as David Beckham and Jennifer Lopez, as "a disaster". Hamilton had been managed by his father Anthony during his early F1 career, but split with him at the start of 2010 before signing with Fuller earlier this year.

"I think it's a disaster," Ecclestone said. "He gets to meet people that probably he wouldn't have met, and [who] have probably the wrong sort of influence on him. He's at the age, perhaps, and he has the amount of money, where when he's influenced, he can carry things through, which he wouldn't normally have done."

Hamilton's 2011 season was one of the worst of his career, with a fifth-place finish in the championship standings and several on-track incidents, resulting in 14 visits to the stewards' office. Away from the circuit Hamilton split with girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger, which he admitted put him in a 'bad place' towards the end of the season.


"I think he had some personal problems during the year which affected him quite a lot," Ecclestone added. "A lot to do with these things, it depends an awful lot on the people you surround yourself with, and who are in a position to influence you. I think he just fell into a lot of people that I think weren't good for him. When his dad was looking after him, his dad was a bit more … obviously it didn't suit Lewis, which was why they split, I think he didn't appreciate how much help his dad was."
Earlier this year Ecclestone was reportedly unhappy about a video that appeared on YouTube in which McLaren guest Ice-T walked around one of the team's cars making lewd comments.

"It's our fault, because we tend to encourage celebrities," Ecclestone said. "It's good. Not so much for those of us who get our hands dirty but for all the sponsors who turn up with their guests and like to say: 'Oh, we saw whoever-it-was.' They forget they've come to watch Formula One. The difference is that we can handle them, because we're not directly involved. He [Hamilton] sees somebody like that, he admires the guy, so he'll start copying a little bit what they're up to."
But Ecclestone has been impressed with how Hamilton's team-mate Jenson Button has conducted himself this year.

"I'm very happy with Button this year," he said. "He's done a really good job and he's been much better as a person with the public than he was when he was the world champion [in 2009], which is good, because he's a nice guy."

Lotus appoints Iley from McLaren

Lotus has announced the appointment of John Iley as performance director, with him joining the team from McLaren.

Iley was head of aerodynamics at McLaren having rejoined the team in 2010 following spells with Ferrari and Renault. In his new role, however, Lotus said that he will be "heading up all aerodynamics, CFD and related activity for the team", as he links up with Mike Gascoyne once again having previously worked with him at both Renault and Jordan. Caterham group CEO Riad Asmat said that the appointment was an indication of the team's ability to attract big names.

"We are absolutely delighted that John has taken up the challenge we have offered him, to help take us to the next level on and off track in one of the key areas of performance in Formula 1," Asmat said. "It is a real sign of our growth and development as a serious contender for long-term honours that we can attract someone of John's calibre and we are all very excited about the contribution he will make to our future success from the moment he starts work with our team."

McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh thanked Iley for his work for the team.
"John greatly contributed to the aerodynamic capability at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes but has taken the decision to accept an offer from Caterham F1 team for 2012 and beyond. We enjoyed working with John and wish him well for the future."

Sauber's Sergio Perez admits long recovery from Monaco crash surprised him

Sergio Perez has admitted that it took until the middle of the summer for him to fully get over the effects of his Monaco Grand Prix qualifying accident.

The Sauber driver crashed heavily at the chicane in Q3 in Monte Carlo, sustaining a concussion that ruled him out of the rest of the weekend. Perez attempted to return for Canada a fortnight later, but had to withdraw following practice.

Although those were the only two races he missed, the Mexican said issues from the accident lingered longer, and ultimately compromised his campaign.
Asked in a team interview if he was happy with his rookie season, Perez replied: "Well, I'm happy in terms of the speed I had but I'm not happy in terms of results and points.

"Also because of my accident I missed two races - Monaco and Canada – in which the car and the team performed very well. After I got back into the car it still took me a few more races until I was really a hundred per cent again.


"But regarding my overall performance in F1, I think I can be happy with my rookie season."
Perez admitted he had been surprised by how long it took to make a full recovery.

"Physically I had to wait. This wasn't easy, but it was important," he said. "When I got back into the car for free practice in Canada I realised the difficulties I had. I felt dizzy, so it was impossible to drive.
"Two weeks later in Valencia I felt a lot better and was able to drive. It was better again in Silverstone and at the Nurburgring, but it was only in Budapest that I felt I was completely over it.

"It had been a very heavy impact and I learnt it takes time to physically make sure you feel right after suffering from concussion. Mentally it was a shock too. It helped me a lot to go home to Mexico and it was important to do all that work to prepare for racing again."

Vettel 'pushing very hard' for 2012

Sebastian Vettel said that Red Bull is "pushing very hard" with the 2012 car and says he would prefer a fast car rather than a reliable one.

Vettel won the title with four races to spare this season after impressive reliability that allowed him to finish every race in the top four until that point. Although the final two rounds saw a puncture and gearbox problem hamper his races, a mechanical failure never caused him to retire.


Having enjoyed such a run, Vettel admitted that he had been savouring the season as it was not certain to be repeated, but said that the focus was now on next year.


"I think it has been phenomenal," Vettel said. "I think it will be a season that we will look back to and always be very happy to look back and be very proud of. These kinds of seasons don't come across you every year; I think we need to realise that. We focus already for next season, Adrian [Newey] and the guys are pushing very hard to get the car ready for next year and we move on."
After winning six of the first eight races in 2011 Vettel had a commanding lead in the standings, and while acknowledging that this year had been "nearly faultless" he said that he would rather the focus for the new car was on speed rather than reliability.

"You have to mention that this year was pretty smooth and nearly faultless. We had no issues with reliability except Brazil but we still managed to finish the race in second place. Other than that nothing went wrong from a car point of view. The retirements we had I think were Mark's crash in Monza and the puncture I suffered in Abu Dhabi, but car-wise and engine-wise everything was better than expected. Everything is built on the limit so you're pushing in every area and sometimes here and there things might break but this year everything was working fine. Surely the target is to keep that up.

"Next year the cars will be slightly different, not a revolution but the regulations changed a little bit again so we have to adapt. At the moment we are pushing very hard as I said - Adrian and the guys to finalise the car - and obviously then at the beginning of next year we try to put it together and put it on the track and see how it works. Hopefully it will be quite reliable from the start. The most important thing I think is that the car is fast; I think it's easier to make a fast car reliable than a reliable car fast."

Ecclestone backs Bahrain Grand Prix go-ahead

Bernie Ecclestone would need to be presented with "incontrovertible evidence" of unacceptable things happening in Bahrain to reconsider next year's grand prix, but is hoping for a problem-free race in April.

The 2011 grand prix was postponed and eventually cancelled against a backdrop of international condemnation at the political situation inside the kingdom and unease over the dates among the teams. The 2012 race has been approved for April 22 despite ongoing political tensions in the country and more anti-government demonstrations at Manama's symbolic Pearl Square roundabout this week.

The roundabout had been the focus for protests earlier this year when the government enforced martial law to crack down on the demonstrators. At least 24 people were killed in the unrest according to official figures and an inquiry said excessive police force had resulted in deaths, mistreatment and torture of civilians.

Human rights organisations also reported that doctors were put in prison for treating protestors, but in an interview with the Guardian Ecclestone said he had been given assurances that was not the case.

"We have been assured that this is not what's happening," he said. "In fact they had a report made, allegedly independent. What did the report say? Yes, there were instances or whatever, but ... I wanted to go out there. I was happy to go. I'd like to go into the prison or the hospital or whatever and ask: 'What actually happened?'"

He added: "I have asked [to go out there]. They said, 'No problem.' The danger is you go out there and they pick you up in a limousine and take you to the best hotel and take you to dinner and then put you back on the aeroplane."

Asked what he would do if he was presented with "incontrovertible evidence that unacceptable things were still happening", Ecclestone said: "We'd have to give it some serious thought then. But we've been to Argentina when there's been big dramas. There's been dramas in Brazil. Bad things happen there. I think you can look anywhere now and it's not all good. You can't really hold England up as being all good, can you? There have been some terrible atrocities that we committed."

However, Ecclestone hinted that not going to Bahrain was an option and added that he had pulled F1 out of South Africa during apartheid.

"Wherever I go, the minute you get off the plane, the minute you go into somebody's country, you've got to respect exactly what their way of life is - their religion, their laws or whatever. It's not correct to go moving into somebody's country and try to change them. Don't go. If you know something's wrong, stay away.

"We pulled out of South Africa years ago [in 1985] because of apartheid. I witnessed things that had happened there which upset me. I thought: 'That ain't the way to go on.' I hope we go to Bahrain and there's no trouble - the race goes on, the public are happy and there are no dramas. That's what I hope."

Red Bull still committed to cost cutting

Red Bull boss Christian Horner believes his team can still work towards controlling costs in Formula One despite withdrawing from the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA).
Red Bull, Ferrari and Sauber have all pulled out of FOTA in the last two weeks amid a disagreement over how teams' spending should be contained. After speculation that teams, including Red Bull, were finding a way to work outside the existing Resource Restriction Agreement (RRA), FOTA reached a stalemate over the issue and the three teams resigned.

All three will serve a two-month notice period and Horner said he would continue to work with FOTA to try to reach an agreement on cost-cutting measures.

"It is a two-month notice period that both Ferrari and ourselves will serve and I think Sauber have joined that now," he said on Saturday. "We have a meeting with some of the other FOTA members on Monday to talk about cost control, but we'll see. Nothing is ever totally set in stone, but for the time being we feel that it is the right decision to take to step out of FOTA."



Asked if he thought Red Bull's decision to leave would move things forward, Horner said: "I think for sure it has stimulated discussion and hopefully something positive will come out of it, but we only withdrew last week so we'll see. The team remains committed to trying to find ways of containing costs, but in a transparent manner. We're a subsidiary of an energy drinks company and what we do is only relevant to Formula One and therefore it's crucial that whatever regulations or [cost cutting] format is agreed upon is transparent and workable."
Horner also outlined his gripes with the RRA, saying he was concerned that manufacturer teams, such as Ferrari and Mercedes, could find loopholes in the agreement through their size and engine departments.
"It needs to encompass all aspects of the car," he said. "Dealing with equivalence is always quite difficult and quite dangerous. Each of the teams has a different make up, different ownership - some belong to automotive manufacturers and some are independent. If you look at the things that work, like the testing, like the windtunnel hours, like the restriction in personnel, the things that you can touch and feel seem to work quite well. But as soon as you start trading equivalence of hours versus external spend, that's where it seems to run into some difficulty.
"There's a willingness from all of the teams to try and contain costs, it's just the manner that you do that. And of course you can't exclude the engine from that as well - with some teams producing their own engines - so it's therefore important to look at the teams as a whole rather than cherry-picking chassis opposed to engine."
Red Bull technical director Adrian Newey said transparency between the teams was necessary for any kind of cost-cutting agreement to work.
"We all agree with budget control, we don't want to get into the arms race that happened with the manufacturers a few years ago, and certainly with Red Bull we wouldn't be able to," he said. "But if we can concentrate on the things that are tangible - the windtunnel and CFD restriction works very well because you can measure it and testing restrictions are exactly the same.
"But with some of the teams being involved in the subsidiaries of major automotive companies, it becomes a bit difficult to know exactly how their resources are really split. It's about having things that you can genuinely measure and as soon as you can't have that you get all the sniping and the bitching and accusations."

Senna confident for 2012 despite narrowing options

Bruno Senna is not sure where he will end up in 2012 but is confident he will be in a better position than he was at the start of this year.

Senna raced at the final eight grands prix in 2011 as he was drafted in to replace Nick Heidfeld at Renault (soon to be renamed Lotus). However, he will not race for the team next year as Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean have now been confirmed as its drivers. A reserve role is likely with few places remaining on the grid, but Senna said he is not downbeat.

"I don't know yet - I'm still working on next season, but as I said I think it's looking much better than last season at this same time and let's hope we can have good news," he was quoted by the Norwich Advertiser. "It's difficult to say what's going to happen, but I'll always have Lotus in my heart."

He scored just two points in 2011 as Renault struggled for performance towards the end of the year, but said it had been a fantastic experience after his difficult debut season with the struggling HRT team in 2010.

"It has been pretty amazing to be honest," Senna added. "I mean, just to get a real chance in Formula One, and these guys gave me that chance to be in a much better position than I was at this time last year, and even in July. They gave me a great chance to prove what I can do and on quite a few occasions I have been very competitive, so it's good to know that in a competitive car I can turn it out in Formula One and I think I'm looking forward to next year."

Raikkonen escapes injury after snowmobile accident

Renault says Kimi Raikkonen did not suffer any serious harm when he crashed in a snow mobile race in Austria today.

The Formula 1 returnee was reported to have fallen on an early run in the event and suffered pain from his left wrist, ruling him out of the rest of the weekend.

 

But the Renault team has issued a message via itsTwitter feed underlining that Raikkonen was largely unscathed.

"We just spoke to Kimi," it read. "There's nothing to worry about, he only has a sore wrist. He might have it checked again on Monday, but that's all."

 

Renault announced last week that it had enticed Raikkonen back to F1 for 2012 after a two-year stint in the World Rally Championship, and has since promoted Romain Grosjean from the third driver role to become his team-mate. The team will run as Lotus from next season.

Red Bull Racing set for Milton Keynes celebration

Red Bull Racing will take to the streets of its Milton Keynes hometown this weekend to celebrate its hugely successful 2011 Formula 1 season.

The event takes place on Midsummer Boulevard from 12.30 to 15.00, and will see world champion Sebastian Vettel and team-mate Mark Webber demonstrating the cars they took to 12 grand prix wins and a dominant world title for Vettel and constructors' crown for RBR.

Team boss Christian Horner, technical chief Adrian
 Newey, Red Bull stunt rider Chris Pfeiffer and BBC F1 presenter Jake Humphrey will also be in attendance, as will David Coulthard, who will drive one of Red Bull Racing's NASCAR Toyota Camrys.

"We're expecting a big crowd," said Webber in his BBC column.
"It might not be the easiest day to get around the town, but it should be a really special day - not just for the fans, but also for the Red Bull team.
"I know a lot of people at the team are very proud that we are going to drive the cars under the noses of a lot of the people who work at the factory."

Romain Grosjean joins Kimi Raikkonen at Lotus Renault for 2012

Romain Grosjean will make a Formula 1 comeback next season after Renault opted to hand the Frenchman a seat alongside Kimi Raikkonen in 2012.

Following intense speculation over the past couple of weeks about the second seat at Renault, the Enstone-based outfit announced early on Friday that Grosjean will replace Vitaly Petrov.

The news, which comes on the back of the soon-to-be-renamed Lotus team causing a stir by signing Raikkonen, also ensures that the outfit keeps hold of major oil and petrol sponsor Total.

"I am thrilled to be one of the team's race drivers in 2012," Grosjean said. "There's a big grin on my face at the prospect of getting behind the wheel of next year's car, and I feel very privileged to be given this opportunity.

"To be racing alongside a former world champion and someone who is hungry and returning to Formula 1 will be a great experience, and I'm sure will help raise my level of performance too. I feel that my successful season in GP2 Series has helped me mature a lot, and I am a much more complete driver than I was last time I was competing in this sport.

"Returning to Enstone as a race driver feels like coming home. I will not disappoint and I wish to thank all the people without whom this return to F1 would not have been possible. Total, which supports me since 2006, and Gravity Sport Management, are first on this list."
Renault owner Gerard Lopez added: "Only last week I reiterated that the team is at the start of a brand new cycle.

"Announcing Romain as our race driver alongside Kimi is great news and will help us achieve our aims of getting back to the very top. The announcements we made today and last week are exciting ones for our team and there is a real buzz surrounding us now."

Grosjean's return to F1 comes at the expense of Petrov, whose future at the team had been in doubt ever since he launched an amazing outburst against the outfit after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Russian had been given several days to decide what he wanted to do with his future, but in the end Renault announced that it was handing Grosjean the place.

The news also means that Bruno Senna, who has raced for Renault since the Belgian Grand Prix, must find an alternative drive in 2012 if he wants to continue in F1.

Team principal Eric Boullier, who has pushed hard for Grosjean to be given another F1 chance, is confident the GP2 Series champion will do a good job next year - as he also wished Petrov and Senna good luck.

"We were impressed when he drove for us in the first practice sessions in Abu Dhabi and Brazil," he said. "We are confident that drafting him in to one of our driver's seats will help us in our rebuilding process. I would like to thank Vitaly Petrov and Bruno Senna for their contribution to the team's performance this year and I wish them all the best for the future."

Sauber also withdraws from FOTA

Sauber has confirmed it has resigned from the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA), making it the third team to leave the body in a week.

A spokeswoman confirmed to ESPNF1 that Sauber sent a letter to FOTA on Friday informing the other teams of its decision and the reasons behind it. However, Sauber will not be releasing a statement as Ferrari and Red Bull did last Wednesday, preferring to keep its reasons private.

The news broke on Wednesday evening as a report on Autosport.com said Toro Rosso's position in FOTA is also uncertain. The Italian team was unavailable for comment on Wednesday, but with sister team Red Bull pulling out last week, it stands to reason that Toro Rosso, which is also owned by Dietrich Mateschitz, will follow.

The remaining FOTA teams met earlier this week to discuss the future of the organisation.