Veritas RS 111 5.0 V10 Roadster – made in Germany

The hand-built Veritas RS 111 is the most outrageous supercar we’ve ever driven here at CarAdvice, and we have driven a few!

We drove the prototype version in Italy earlier this year, and were impressed with the sheer pose value this awesome machine offers.

That same popularity made it hard to film though, as wherever we pulled over; a crowd of onlookers would gather, armed with a barrage of questions about the car.

Granted, it looks like something Wolverine might drive in the next X-Men movie, but let me assure you, anytime you’re behind the wheel of a Veritas, is a blast.

Punch the throttle in second gear, while you’re going ballistic through one of Italy’s tunnels, and you will know the full meaning of engine noise. The twin, high-set exhaust pipes on the Veritas, make enough noise to drown out a Tornado fighter jet.

There’s racing history behind the Veritas name too, these guys were the first German team to enter Formula One, so it’s no surprise that they have a test centre and showroom, trackside at the Nurburgring.

Awarded this year’s public award of “Best Super Car 2009” at London’s prestigious Salon Prive, the Veritas RS 111 will commence a limited series run of 30 of these extraordinary cars, five of which have already been sold to enthusiasts in Monaco, Australia, Great Britain, Spain and Switzerland.

With another eight cars reserved, and over 100 enquiries, Michael Trick the CEO of VerMot AG who owns the Veritas brand, expects all first series cars to be sold out this year.

At 4.68 metres long, a massive 2.02 metres wide and only 970 millimetres high, the Veritas RS 111 cuts a seriously imposing figure on the road.

Weighing in at just 1.080 kilograms, quick, is an understatement. Powered by a BMW sourced 5.0 litre V10 developing 373 kW and 520Nm of torque, this monster will do 347km/h and sprint form 0-100km/h in under 3.2 seconds.

You can option a six-speed manual, but the standard 7-speed SMG with paddles is the best way to enjoy this car.

The prototype car we drove required maximum concentration with this much power and no ABS or Traction Control, certainly not for the faint-hearted.

The production car has both these safety devices, but drivers will be able to deactivate both systems individually.

The Veritas RS 111 is a super car for the purist, I only wish I had the cash.

Veritas RS 111 Technical Data

Engine: V10

Displacement: 4.999cm3

Max. Power: 373kW/507hp at 7.500rpm.

Max. Torque: 520Nm at 6.100rpm.

Gearbox: 7-speed SMG (standard), 6-speed manual (optional)

Top speed: 347km/h

Acceleration: 0-100km/h approx. 3,2s.

Dimensions: Length: 4.680mm

Width: 2.020mm

Height: 970mm

Weight: 1.080Kg (1.170Kg fully fueled)

Wheelbase: 2.700mm

Structure: Tube frame

Body: 1+1 seater: Tubular frame with racing carbon fibre body with specific torsional rigidity by the use of elevated flanks and central tubular construction

Differential: different ratios and self-locking differentials

according to individual customer preferences

Suspensions: 4 independent wheels with double triangular

control arms Öhlins coilover suspension with personalised setting

Push rod, front spring struts mounted horizontally / rear spring struts mounted longitudinally

Steering: servo-assisted rack and pinion steering Anti roll bars

Wheels/tyres: 5 spoke VERITAS exclusive forged light alloy wheels

Front axle: 10,5J x 22 with tyres Dunlop SP Sport Maxx, 255/30 ZR22

Rear axle: 12,5J x 22 with tyres Dunlop SP Sport Maxx, 325/25 ZR22

Brakes: BRABHAM RACING high performance brake system

Front axle: 6-piston brake calipers with cross-drilled, internally ventilated ceramic brake discs, diameter: 380mm

Rear axle: 4-piston brake calipers with cross drilled, internally ventilated ceramic brake discs, diameter: 355mm Anti-lock braking system (ABS) separately activatable-

Traction control: Separately activatable

Exhaust system: Stainless steel exhaust manifolds (headers), high- performance motorsport catalytic converters, complete stainless steel

Exhaust system with remote controlled sound baffles

Interior: Bucket seats with Nappa leather 4-point H-harnesses

Weight-to-power ratio: 2,13Kg/hp (1,79Kg/hp for optional Clubsport version with BRABHAM RACING 5.5-ltrs. high-precision, high-performance engine 605hp)

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2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The world’s most successful luxury car (W 221- series S-Class) which has sold 270,000 units in four years of production is now being replaced. Since the Model 220 came about in 1951 and started the lineage of the S-Class, German powerhouse Mercedes-Benz has sold around 3.3 million S-Class units.

Focusing on design and comfort with leading innovations  Mercedes-Benz is now releasing the 2009 S-Class.

The Mercedes-Benz  S-Class has a huge range of engines available including one V6 turbo diesel and five petrol engines, including six, eight and twelve cylinders. These engines produce the same high output as the previous model while consuming up to seven percent less fuel.

Low rolling resistant tyres, steering and fuel pump modifications combined with the 7G-TRONIC automatic gearbox can reduce  fuel consumption to 7.7 litres per 100kms in the  S 350 CDI Blue Efficiency with 173kw.

Complementing the usual high safety standards expected from the S-Class is a range of new camera and radar driver assisted devices. These include ATTENTION ASSIST that detects driver drowsiness as well as Adaptive Highbeam Assist.

Night View Assist Plus can detect pedestrians, highlighting them on the display to make the noticeable.

Direct-Steer and modified Active Body Control with cross wind stabilisation for the eight and twelve cylinder models offer more agility and driving enjoyment.

Available in Mercedes-Benz showrooms and authorised dealerships from October 2009.

Australian Prices for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Model 

Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP)

 

On Sale

 

S 350 

$214,900

 

Now

 

S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (BE) 

$214,900

 

Now

 

S 350 L 

$232,900

 

Now

 

S 500 

$289,900

 

Now

 

S 500 L 

$307,900

 

Now

 

S 63 AMG 

$380,900

 

Now

 

S 600 L 

$402,900

 

Now

 

S 65 AMG L 

$482,900

 

Now

 

The prices detailed in this document are current Manufacturer’s List Prices (MLP) for the Mercedes-Benz S 350, S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, S 350 L, S 500, S 500 L, S 63 AMG, S 600 L, and S 65 AMG L.

– The attached pricing is an MLP

– That the MLP excludes on road costs and dealer delivery, and

– For drive away price information, you should contact Mercedes-Benz dealers.

Equipment List

Cornering lights: this function of the bi-xenon headlamps and the Intelligent Light System provides more safety on junctions and when driving slowly on tight bends. 

Standard

 

Active Body Control (ABC): active suspension system that adapts the springs to the current driving situation within fractions of a second. 

Optional S 500 (standard for S 63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG)

 

ADAPTIVE BRAKE: this Mercedes brake system offers assistance functions, such as a HOLD function and Hill Start Assist, for even greater safety and comfort. 

Standard

 

Adaptive front airbags: the front airbags deploy in two stages, depending on accident severity. 

Standard

 

Adaptive Highbeam Assist: this system dips the beams and adjusts the range of the headlamps in accordance with the distance to oncoming vehicles/vehicles travelling ahead. 

Standard

 

Adaptive brake lights: flashing brake lights warn vehicles behind in an emergency braking situation. 

Standard

 

AIRMATIC: the air suspension worked together with an electronically controlled damping system. 

Standard for all V6 and V8 engine variants

 

Active multicontour seats: depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and speed, the inflation pressure and volume of the air chambers in the side bolsters of the seat backrests are varied to give the driver and front passenger even better lateral support. The seats also have comfort head restraints and a massage function. 

Optional as part of Front Seat Comfort package (standard for S 63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG)

 

Active Light System: the Intelligent Light System’s bi-xenon headlamps follow the driver’s steering movements. 

Standard

 

Ambient lighting: when driving at night, optical fibres behind the trim on the dashboard and door panels provide a pleasant lighting atmosphere in the interior. 

Standard

 

ATTENTION ASSIST: this system warns the driver when it detects signs of drowsiness. 

Standard

 

Motorway mode: from 90 km/h the entire width of the carriageway is illuminated, improving the driver’s range of vision by around 50 metres; part of the Intelligent Light System 

Standard

 

Bi-xenon headlamps: gas-discharge lamps for low and high beam improve safety at night. 

Standard

 

Bluetooth interface: the mobile phone is wirelessly linked to the hands-free system. 

Standard

 

Brake Assist PLUS: this system uses radar sensors to recognise an impending rear-end collision, calculates the necessary degree of braking assistance and makes it available immediately when the driver depresses the brake pedal. 

Standard

 

COMAND APS: the navigation data are stored on a hard disc. Further functions include the MUSIC REGISTER and voice control. 

Standard

 

Digital radio: a special DAB+ tuner (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and additional aerials is required to allow the reception of Australian digital radio broadcasts. 

DAB+ tuner not expected until late 2010

 

DIRECT SELECT: seven-speed automatic transmission operated electronically using a lever on the steering column. 

Standard

 

Direct-Steer: a variable steering rack ratio depending on the steering angle allows more agile handling and provides more comfort when parking and manoeuvring at slow speed. 

Standard

 

DISTRONIC PLUS: this radar-based proximity control system automatically helps the driver to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead. It can brake the S-Class to a standstill if necessary, then accelerate again. If the distance to the vehicle ahead decreases too quickly, the system gives the driver visual and audible warnings. 

Standard

 

Enhanced foglamps: This function of the Intelligent Light System pivots the offside headlamp outwards to illuminate the road verge more effectively. 

Standard

 

ESP®: This safety system is able to reduce the risk of skidding in bends, and warns of pressure loss in the tyres. 

Standard

 

Headlamp Assist: a sensor on the windscreen automatically switches the headlamps on when darkness falls. 

Standard

 

Rear Seat Entertainment package: the rear faces of the front seat head restraints feature 8-inch displays connected to a DVD player. 

Optional (standard S 65 AMG)

 

Gracenote®: database that recognises music tracks on a CD/DVD or from the MUSIC REGISTER and shows the title, album and artist on the colour display. 

Standard

 

Belt force limiters: this technology reduces the force exerted by the belt strap on the seat occupant during a crash. 

Standard for the front seats and the outer rear seats

 

Belt tensioners: any slack in the seat belt strap is instantly taken up during a crash to reduce the forward movement of the occupants caused by the impact. 

Standard for all seats

 

Intelligent Light System: This innovative headlamp technology provides five lighting functions which are activated depending on the driving and weather conditions (also see Cornering lights, Country mode, Motorway mode, Active Light System and Enhanced foglamps). 

Standard

 

KEYLESS-GO: the doors and boot can be opened without a key. It is sufficient to carry the KEYLESS-GO transponder on the person and operate the door handle. Merely operating the start/stop key is sufficient to start the engine. 

Standard

 

Automatic climate control: this system controls four temperature zones and offers numerous adjustments for individual passenger comfort. 

Standard

 

Kneebag: an additional airbag is able to reduce the loads acting on the driver during a frontal collision 

Standard

 

Individual comfort seats: a seat unit with two comfortable, individual seats, a folding armrest, heating, comfort head restraints, a stowage box and cupholders is available for passengers in the rear. 

Optional (standard for long-wheelbase variants)

 

Comfort telephony: the driver and passengers are able to conduct onboard telephone conferences by mobile phone, and send or receive SMS messages. The phone is housed in a cradle under the armrest.  

Standard

 

Paintwork: Nano-technology makes the paintwork more scratch-resistant and ensures a glossier sheen. 

Standard

 

Country mode: this function of the Intelligent Light System replaces the previous low-beam headlamps and provides broader and brighter illumination of the opposite road verge. 

Standard

 

LINGUATRONIC: the voice control system operates the radio, CD/DVD-player, CD/DVD-changer, navigation system and telephone. 

Standard

 

Media Interface: this universal interface allows portable audio devices to be connected to and controlled by the infotainment system of the S-Class. 

Standard

 

Memory function: three memory settings are stored for both the driver’s and the front passenger seat. The settings for the steering wheel and exterior mirrors are also stored. 

Standard

 

Multifunction steering wheel: the radio, telephone, navigation system, display and other devices can be controlled from the steering wheel. 

Standard

 

Multicontour seats: inflatable air chambers enable the seat contours and seat cushion length to be adjusted to the individual occupant. 

Optional as part of the Rear Seat Comfort package (standard S 63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG)

 

MUSIC REGISTER with a 7.2 GB hard disc which stores around 2500 digital music files in the MP3, AAC or WMA format. These can be loaded from PC memory cards. 

Standard

 

Music Search: search function that searches SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music tracks and performers. 

Standard

 

Night View Assist PLUS: the display in the dashboard shows a realistic grey-scale image from an infrared camera that monitors the road ahead of the S-Class. Any pedestrians detected are additionally highlighted in the display. 

Optional S 350 / S 350 CDI Blue EFFICIENCY

 

NECK-PRO head restraints: crash-responsive head restraints are able to support the heads of the driver and front passenger at an early stage during a rear-end collision, reducing the risk of a whiplash injury. 

Standard

 

PARKTRONIC including Parking Guidance: ultrasonic sensors measure the length of parking spaces as the car drives past; instructions for safe parking appear in the display. 

Standard

 

PRE-SAFE®: if the system recognises a critical driving situation, it takes precautionary measures to protect the occupants. It can e.g. initiate tensioning of the front seat belts, or closing of the wide windows and sliding sunroof. 

Standard

 

PRE-SAFE® Brake: if there is imminent danger of a rear-end collision, this system brakes the S-Class automatically if the driver fails to react. 

Standard

 

Reversing camera: the area behind the S-Class is shown in the COMAND display, and coloured directional lines show a precisely calculated path into a parking space. 

Standard

 

Crosswind stabilisation: effects of crosswind are largely compensated. 

Standard as part of Active Body Control for the S63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG( optional S 500)

 

Sidebags: these side-mounted airbags reduce the loads acting on the occupants during a side impact. 

Standard for the front and outer rear seats

 

7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission: this automatic transmission is installed in all the V6 and V8 variants. 

Standard for all V6 and V8 engine variants

 

SPLITVIEW: the driver and front passenger are able to view different content on one and the same screen at the same time. 

Standard

 

Lane Keeping Assist: a camera behind the windscreen recognises clear carriageway markings and gives a warning if the car unintentionally leaves its lane. 

Standard

 

harman kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system: a multi-channel system with innovative digital technology, an output of 610 watts and 14 loudspeakers provides surround-sound for every seat. 

Standard

 

Torque Vectoring Brake: by specifically braking the rear wheels, ESP® ensures more safety at the physical limits without any loss of agility. 

Standard

 

Blind Spot Assist: this radar-based system warns the driver before a lane-change if it detects another vehicle in the exterior mirror’s blind spot. 

Standard

 

Windowbags: like a curtain, these large airbags extend from the A to the C-pillar in a side impact. 

Standard

 

A brief overview of the special technical features in the individual model series:

Model 220, W 187 series (1951 to 1954)

Newly designed six-cylinder engine with overhead camshaftPatented safety conical-pin locks prevent doors from jumping open in an accidentFan heater availableDuplex drum brakes at the front

Models 220 a, 220 S and 220 SE, W 180/128 series (1954 to 1959)

Unitary body designFront suspension subframeSingle-link swing axle with low centre of gravityBrake drums with “turbocooling”“Hydrak” automatic hydraulic clutch (available from 1957)

Models 220 b, 220 Sb, 220 SEb, 300 SE, W 111/112 series (1959 to 1965)

Rigid safety passenger compartment with energy-absorbing crumple zones at the front and rearSteering wheel with padded boss and elimination of sharp edges in the interiorConical-pin door lock with two safety catchesDisc brakes (300 SE, 220 S/SE from 1962)Three-point seat beltsFour-speed automatic transmission (available from 1961)Air suspension (300 SE)Long-wheelbase version available (300 SE)

Models 250 S – 300 SE, 300 SEL – 300 SEL 6.3, W 108/109 series (1965 to 1972)

Safety steering system comprising telescopic steering column and steering wheel with impact absorber (from 1967)Hydropneumatic compensator spring at the rear axleAlso available with eight-cylinder engine (from 1967)

S-Class 280 S to 450 SE, 280 SEL to 450 SEL 6.9, W 116 series (1972 to 1980)

Officially known as the “S-Class” for the first timeFuel tank installed above the rear axle for collision protectionSafety interior (with four-spoke safety steering wheel)Safety door handlesSide windows with anti-soiling measuresTail lights with anti-soiling designAnti-lock braking system ABS (available from 1978)Double-wishbone front suspension from the C 111 experimental vehicleFirst luxury class saloon with a diesel engine (300 SD)

S-Class 260 SE to 560 SE, 300 SEL to 560 SEL, W 126 series (1979 to 1991)

New safety concept, the world’s first series production car to be configured for an asymmetrical, frontal crash (offset crash)First use worldwide of a driver airbag and belt tensioner in a series production car (available from 1981)Front passenger airbag (available from 1987)Three-point seat belts in the rearAutomatic locking differentialAcceleration skid control ASR (available from 1985)

S-Class 300 SE 2.8 to S 600; 300 SEL to S 600 long-wheelbase, W 140 series (1991 to 1998)

Electronic Stability Program ESP® (available from 1995)Brake Assist BAS (from 1996)Adaptive Damping System ADS (available from 1991)Seat belt system with automatic height adjustmentSidebags (from 1995)First series production Mercedes-Benz car with a twelve-cylinder engine

S-Class S 280 to S 500; S 280 long-wheelbase to S 600, W 220 series (1998 to 2005)

Belt tensioners and belt-force limiters in the rearAutomatic child seat detectionWINDOWBAGOccupant protection system PRE-SAFE® (from 2002)DISTRONIC proximity control (available from 1998)Automatic cylinder cut-out (S 500/S 600)KEYLESS-GO (available from 1998)AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping systemCOMAND control and display systemActive Body Control suspension Active seat ventilation (available from 1998)Bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic beam range control and headlamp cleaning system (available from 2002)

S-Class S 320 CDI to S 500; S 320 CDI long-wheelbase to S 600, W 221 series (2005-2009)

Brake Assist PLUS with radar sensorsDISTRONIC PLUS proximity control with extended speed rangeParking Assist based on radarDynamic multicontour seat with extended massage functionNight View Assist with infrared technologyFurther development of PRE-SAFE® occupant protectionWorld’s first automobile with an Environmental CertificateCOMAND system with menu navigation and Controller“S/C/M” keys for individual adjustment of the damper and transmission characteristics and the level control systemBlind Spot Assist (since 2006)

S-Class S 350 to S 500; S 350 L to S 600; W 221 series (2009)

World’s first hybrid drive system with a lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRIDATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection systemAdaptive Highbeam AssistNight View Assist PlusSpeed Limit AssistLane Keeping AssistFurther development stage of PRE-SAFE®An “electronic crumple zone” – the PRE-SAFE® BrakeDISTRONIC PLUS and Brake Assist PLUS with further developed radar technologyTorque Vectoring BrakeActive Body Control with crosswind stabilisationDirect-Steer

Power & Fuel Figures

S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY – 7.7L/100km – 202 grams per kilometre – 173kW – 520Nm of torque. 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds.S 350 – 9.8L/100km – 234 grams per kilometre – 200kW – 350Nm of torque – 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds.S 500 – 10.9L/100km – 260 grams per kilometre – 285kW – 530Nm of torque – 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds.S 600 – 380kW – 830Nm of torque – 0-100km/h 4.6 secondsS 63 – 386kWS 65 – 450kW#gallery-1 {margin: auto;}#gallery-1 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 25%;}#gallery-1 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-1 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}

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Lexus LFA at Tokyo Motor Show

Lexus have given the press a first look at its exciting LFA model at the Tokyo Motor Show this afternoon.

The LFA was officially launched to the news that only 500 examples of the two-seat coupe will be sold when production commences next year.

The pinnacle of Lexus’ “F” range of premium sports cars (that includes models such as the IS-F), LFA combines a high-output 4.8-litre V10 matched to meticulous aerodynamic and chassis design characteristics.

LFA’s body consists of CFRB (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic) making it 100kg lighter than a comparable aluminium body.

A low centre of gravity has been achieved via the use of a dry sump lubrication system while weight distribution is bettered by locating peripheral engine components – such as the oil and water pumps – behind the engine.

Optimal placement of the transmission and fuel tank have also helped centralise weight distribution to a more optimal range to give LFA a 48:52 front-to-rear weight distribution ratio. The driver’s seat is positioned near the LFA’s centre of gravity for improved communication.

Lexus expect a price tag of US$375,000 (approx.) when customer selection begins in the second-quarter of 2010. Sales will be limited to 500 examples with pre-sales expressions of interest accepted from today.

Specifications:

Engine: 4805cc DOHC V10 (40 valve)Power: 412kW @ 8700rpm (max. 9000rpm)Torque: 480Nm @ 6800rpmTransmission: Six-speed automatic (sequential)Suspension: Double Wishbone (F) / Multi-link (R)Brakes: Carbon Ceramic Discs0-100km/h: 3.7 secondsMaximum Speed: 325km/h

Dimensions:

Length: 4505mmWidth: 1895mmHeight: 1220mmWheelbase: 2605mmTrack: 1580mm (F) / 1570mm (R)Weight: 1480kg (Tare)#gallery-1 {margin: auto;}#gallery-1 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 25%;}#gallery-1 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-1 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}

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Trabant nT

Unless you were a former senior member of the communist party or resident of East Germany, my guess is you have never heard of the Trabant.

And even if you were on the wrong side of the ‘wall’ you probably haven’t heard of the Trabant nT.

It’s not that the Trabant was hard to get hold of in East Germany, in fact, there were over 3 million of them sold during the 51-years they were in production.

Not everyone could get one though, and waiting time from when you placed your order to delivery, was up to 15 years!

While they were reasonably economical using just 7L/100km, it took a whopping 21 seconds to go from 0-100km/h, and the engine was a certified hydrocarbon producer.

Meet the all-new Trabant nT, which the company says “could be on the road in 2012.”

Let me first apologise for the lack of photos of this strange little car. I hustled with the best of them, only to be out-shoved by more people than were around Audi’s multiple displays.

In stark contrast to the heavily polluting Trabant 500 and original 601, this new concept from Trabant won’t ever produce a single hydrocarbon or use any petrol.

The Trabant is powered by a 47-kilowatt asynchronous electric motor, and supported by a lithium-ion-battery, stored in the transmission tunnel.

There’s also a solar panel roof, producing 120 Watts, which is enough to support ventilation and various accessories.

You’ll be able to charge the car from your home from a 220-Volt network in 8 hours, or less than 2 hours, using a 380 Volt socket.

Top speed is said to be 130km/h with a range of 160 kilometres.

Judging by the sheer number of people on the Trabant stand, this thing might have legs. We’ll keep you posted.

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2009 Global Green Challenge

For the first time ever, there is now a proper event whereby manufacturers can compete alongside each other equally to prove which one has the the most fuel efficient car. The Darwin to Adelaide challenge, better know as the Global Green Challenge is set to commence this Saturday (October 24).

Previous years have seen the event take place but only include the World Solar Challenge which is essentially limiting the category to solar vehicles only. This year however will see the introduction of a new class to allow production and prototype eco friendly vehicles that are on their way (or already available) in showrooms.

The 17 cars involved will start from NT’s Parliament House in Darwin this Saturday and finish in Adelaide the Saturday after. The cars involved are powered by a wide variety of fuel saving technology.

At the very top, Internode ISP founder Simon Hackett (together with Kym Cleggett) will be leading the challenge in his all-electric Tesla sports car meanwhile on the otherside of the scale TopGear Australia magazine has entered a Honda ‘postie bike’ running on alcohol fuel.

Manufacturers that have contributed more than one car include: Ford, Kia, Hyundai, and BMW Mini. Additionally Holden, Skoda, and Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) have single car entries. Deep Green Research has decided to enter an all-electric Honda Civic. Students from Annesley College in Adelaide will also be involved in a modified Holden Viva.

BMW & Mini will enter three vehicles driven by Le Mans winner Vern Schuppan, ABC motoring commentator Will Hagon, and motoring writer Bob Jennings together with V8 Touring Car racer Chris Smerdon, Andy Ford, Jaedene Hudson, and BMW’s own Toni Andreevski.

Ford’s Fiesta Econetic will be driven by Motoring writer Peter McKay and Carolyn Barry. Interestingly the blue oval has also entered a Falcon XR6T driven by motoring writer Damien Smy and Russel Christophers.

Suzuki has entered its tiny Alto which will be piloted by Karla Pincott and Feann Torr.

Skoda will put Petra Beneda and Jenny Wu in a Superb, Holden’s Sportwagon 3.0 SIDI will be competing with Andrea Matthews, motoring writer Scott Heyward, and Simon Cassin behind the wheel.

On the Korean side, Kia will enter two new Sorento models piloted by rally drivers Brendan Reeves and Glen Raymond, Geoff Forshaw and Anthony Caldwell. Sister company Hyundai has entered two Sante Fe models driven by rally champion Ed Ordynski together with Motoring Editor Keith Didham. CarAdvice’s editor John Cadogan and Chris Riley are competing in the second Santa Fe.

Holden Special Vehicles has decided what better car to enter the Global Green Challenge in than a Maloo Ute.

The idea is to challenge the vehicles involved to produce the best results in comparison to their fuel/energy consumption and emissions listed in the Australian Design Regulation figures. It’s not particularly a race, more so a challenge to see which car company really can deliver the fuel economy it says it can.

Winners will be selected based on the greatest percentage improvement of the official government figures published in the Green Car Guide. As such, the challenge will also include two ‘urban’ cycles, one in Darwin and one in Adelaide. The main event is a 3,000 kilometre journey from Darwin to Adelaide.

The week long challenge itinerary is as follows:

Darwin – Start Saturday October 24Katherine – Overnight Saturday October 24Tennant Creek – Overnight Sunday October 25Alice Springs – Overnight Monday October 26Cooper Pedy – Overnight Tuesday October 27Port Augusta – Overnight Wednesday October 28Adelaide – Overnight Thursday October 29Adelaide – Urban cycle Friday October 30Adelaide – Global Green Challenge Awards Ceremony Saturday October 31 (Adelaide Convention Centre 6.30pm – invitation only)

Of course the first thing we noticed was Toyota’s name missing from the list. We asked Toyota Australia why the company had not entered the Global Green Challenge.

“The main reason was timing. Unfortunately our financial year is in line with Japan’s, that is April to March. We were approached by the organisers after we had committed our budget for Hybrid to other marketing activities, we couldn’t justify diverting funds from these activities to the Global Green Challenge.” Toyota Public Relations manager Mike Breen told CarAdvice.

We’d like to know which manufacturer you believe will perform the best in this year’s Global Green Challenge.

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Lotus Cars come to Brisbane

Lotus Cars have finally found a home in Brisbane, joining with Euromarque to become known as Lotus Brisbane.

The dealership is in Fortitude Valley just five minutes from the centre of Brisbane and only 15 minutes from the airport. It’s across the road from the Emporium retail and dining district exposing the brand to a larger group of the community which is a good move for Lotus.

This will be the only official sales and servicing outlet in Queensland for Lotus Cars Australia, joining the Australia-wide Lotus dealer network.

Lotus Cars Australia General Manager Sales & Marketing Jonathan Stretton welcomed Lotus Brisbane and Managing Director Greg Willims:

“In the lead-up to the major launch of the Evora, it is vitally important and highly encouraging to welcome a premium dealer such as Euromarque into our Lotus network.”

Euromarque and Lotus Brisbane Dealer Principal Greg Willims is equally enthused about the confirmed partnership:

“We are impressed with the current and future direction of Lotus; not only are we excited about the current range of Lotus performance cars but in the direction of Lotus cars in years to come.”

The Brisbane dealership will sell the entire range of Lotus cars including the Elise S, Exige S, Europa S and SE as well as the 2-Eleven. The new Lotus Evora will arrive in January 2010.

Lotus Europa ReviewLotus Exige S ReviewLotus Elise S ReviewShare this article:

Ford Fiesta Econetic – Australia’s most fuel efficient car

Updated 3 pm: Ford Australia has revealed details of Australia’s most fuel efficient car, the Ford Fiesta Econetic.

Using just 3.7 litres of fuel per 100km, and producing 98 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometre, the Fiesta takes the title from the Prius and Mini Cooper D.

Pricing is $24,990 drive away and the Fiesta comes with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Ford Australia President and CEO Marin Burela told CarAdvice the development of the Fiesta Econetic, which has been on sale in Europe for some time, was heavily supported by Ford Australia. The eco-friendly Fiesta has so far sold to over 60,000 buyers in Europe, despite having an initial target of around 2-3,000.

Australia’s most fuel efficient car is expected to go on sale in December and Ford Australia believes its priced just right to appeal to young and young-at-heart buyers alike.

Mr Burela said Ford’s own testing has shown to car to use around 3.2-litres per 100km on a normal urban cycle. According to Ford’s research the new third generation Prius is indeed more fuel economical in city traffic, however given the massive price gap between the two cars, Ford has worked out that it will take 115 years (based on September fuel prices) to make up the cost of the additional fuel the Fiesta uses over the Prius during city driving.

The diesel powered Fiesta makes use of a 1.6-litre 66kW engine with 200Nm of torque. Fuel saving technologies used include low resistance tyres (tyre size: 175/65 R14), uniquely tuned transmission, lowered suspension for better aerodynamics, low friction oils and weight reduction everywhere possible.

In regards to the transmission, the Fiesta Econetic is only available with a five-speed manual with no current plans for an automatic. The Fiesta weighs 1088kg (kerb weight).

You can see the full technical specification document: Ford-Fiesta-Technical Specifications

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Lamborghini US to offer zero per cent finance

Zero per cent finance. It sounds more like the type of advertising associated with electrical goods or floor tiles – not elite Supercars.

But in a bid to tackle a slump in sales caused by our downtrodden global economy, Lamborghini has announced a new finance program that will make life a little easier for prospective US buyers of 2009 and 2010 Murcielago LP640 Coupe and Roadster models.

Dubbed the Lamborghini Retail Finance Plan, the new program offers up to 60-months of zero per cent financing for well-qualified buyers wanting to get behind the wheel of one of Sant’ Agata’s finest.

“The Lamborghini Retail Finance Plan allows enthusiasts to finance one of most exclusive cars on the road at a more competitive rate than ever before,” said Pietro Frigerio, Chief Operating Officer of Automobili Lamborghini America, LLC.

“We are pleased to continue our relationship with Volkswagen Credit as well partner with Woodside Credit, an established financing organisation in collector and specialty cars, in order to provide several financing options to our clients.”

A 10 per cent down payment is also required up front with the new program able to offer interest rates as low as 5.99 per cent for up to 12-years. The zero per cent finance offer applies for up to 60-months.

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The Jack Brabham Story – rare book giveaway

Capricorn Link Australia, has provided CarAdvice with a rare signed copy of the The Jack Brabham Story.

Believed to be one of only several signed copies in existence, this is a unique opportunity to win this fabulous hard cover book.

Sir Jack Brabham is one of the greatest Australian sportsmen of all time, with no fewer than three Formula One World Championship titles, in 1959, 1960, and 1966, with a car carrying his own name.

He is the only Formula One driver in history, to ever win a Formula One World Championship and a Formula One Champion Constructor’s title.

From the Speedway tracks in Sydney, to the his last Formula One win at the age 44 in the South African Grand Prix, The Jack Brabham Story documents the life of this unique Australian champion in his own words with a forward by Sir Stirling Moss.

The first reader to tell us the type of car (in full) and its engine capacity, which Sir Jack drove to numerous victories in the 1960 Grand Prix season.

We also have two unsigned copies of the book to give away to those readers, which respond with the correct answer in second, and third place.

Good luck everyone, as we would all like this prize.

For those that miss out, you can order a copy of The Jack Brabham Story from: www.capricornlink.com.au

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Renault Megane Renaultsport 250 specifications

Renault’s spanking new track inspired Megane Renaultsport 250, and Megane Renaultsport 250 Cup, are guaranteed contenders for the world’s best hot hatch title, if the specifications just announced are anything to go by.

Renault know how to build a proper hot hatch, they did that with the Megane R26, which was a cracker of car, both on the road and on the track.

Moreover it was superb driver’s car, despite being front wheel drive. The addition of a mechanical limited-slip differential saw to that. There was very little torque steer, and its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine was especially potent.

But the styling of the previous Megane wasn’t to everyone’s liking, you either tolerated it or hated it, but no one loved it. I was somewhere in the middle, due to the car’s stunning all-round performance and exclusivity, when compared to the more common and slightly less manic Golf GTI.

The new Megane 250 Renaultsport is more a revolution than an evolution, with brilliant styling and detail, which should prove a winner to a wider group of motoring enthusiasts than the previous generation car found.

Customers will be able to order the standard Sport chassis, which is said to deliver the perfect balance between performance and daily driveability.

For those track day enthusiasts, there is the Cup chassis, which adds a limited slip differential and significantly stiffer spring and damper rates, for competition-like performance.

You won’t have any trouble recognising the Cup chassis over the standard Megane 250 either, thanks to its grooved brake discs and four-pot red brake calipers by Brembo.

Peak power from the 2.0-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged engine is 186kW with maximum torque of 340Nm at 3000 rpm across a wide rev-band. These numbers are seriously close to that of Audi’s potent S3 output.

Renault have chosen excellent tyres for both chassis’s, with the Sport shod with Dunlop SP Sport Max TT (225/40) and the Cup with wider Michelin Pilot Sport 2 235/40 rubber on standard 18-inch ‘Keza’ alloys.

Among a host of sensible options available on both Megane 250 chassis’ are some 19-inch alloys from Italian wheel maker Speedline. These are wrapped with a set of Continental Sport Contact 5 Performance tyres (235/35 R 19 Y) for extra grip.

Despite the performance pedigree, Renault has not forgotten about creature comforts in the Renaultsport 250.

Standard kit includes leather interior, heated front seats, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory, Renault Hands Free card, dual-zone climate control, automatic on for headlights and wipers, privacy glass, tyre pressure monitor and more.

Cosmetic styling is exceptional, especially in Sport Yellow, with its front bumper and F1 style blade, door mirrors and rear diffuser finished in gloss black as standard fit.

There’s one option box you might want to tick and that’s the Renaultsport Monitor, which provides on-board telemetry not dissimilar to that in the Renault Formula One car.

Those functions include:

Data such as turbo pressure, oil temperature and brakesReal time engine performance as in power and torqueG-force (transverse and longitudinal)Lap timer with memory functionAcceleration times and top speed, with memory function

Also new on the Renaultsport 250 is the Renaultsport Dynamic Management system, which offers drivers three degrees of electronic aid including an “off” mode which means as it says, completely off!

Standing starts should receive a boost too with a new system called PowerStart, which allows fast starts (when ESP is selected) without loss of grip off the line.

Top speed is not listed in the specifications, but the Megane Renaultsport will do the 0-100km/h sprint in just 6.1 seconds.

No one, to my knowledge has ever had anything negative to say about the steering feedback in the Megane R26, so the electric power steering in the Megane Renaultsport, has been specially calibrated for performance driving and with more precise feedback, and a closer steering ratio than the previous iteration.

Renault has chosen to equip the car with a six-speed manual box using taller gear ratios and a more precise shift. It’s a pity that there isn’t a paddle shifter option for this car, through a dual clutch transmission, but then again, that may not be as much fun for the hard-core enthusiasts.

For all of the performance of the new Megane Renaultsport 250, it is remarkably CO2 friendly, producing emissions of just 195g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 8L/100kms.

Managing Director of Renault in Australia Rudi Koening, has told CarAdvice that the Megane Renaultsport 250 is a car they expect to see in Australia next year, and are working hard to make that happen.

We wish him well.

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