Peter Thomson becomes the 2005 Canadian Rally Champion

Courtesy the Canadian Rally Championship

Bancroft (Ontario), November 27, 2005 – The 2005 Canadian Rally Championship hosted its final and decisive round this weekend in Bancroft, Ontario with the presentation of the Tall Pines Rally. The highly exciting event saw Toronto, Ontario’s Peter Thompson – who traded its Subaru for a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 8 for this final round – finish in third place to become the new national rally champion.

A stunning surprise came however from legendary rally driver John Buffum, a multi North American rally champion, who skilfully avoided all the pitfalls on the snow covered country roads to clinch the victory, scoring a record 43rd triumph in the Canadian Championship. This victory also gives Buffum’s co-driver Nathalie Richard the North American title. The St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec’s Richard had already claimed the Canadian co-driver title last year.

One of the rally favourites, Quebec’s Antoine L’Estage was running in second place when the right front wheel hub broke during the 6th special stage, forcing L’Estage to retire and ending all his hopes of beating Thomson in the title chase.

American Matthew Iorio finished second, less than 20 seconds from Buffum. It was the third time in four events that Iorio was finishing in second position. Frank Sprongl, the driver of a Suzuki Swift + was third overall when he arrived too early at the last checkpoint of the event and was given a four-minute time penalty. The incident promoted Thomson to third place, scoring the two championship points he needed to claim the 2005 title. The Toronto driver enjoyed an impressive and successful season, taking two wins and finishing all the events in the top 4.

Quebecers Jean-Paul Pérusse and Frédéric Labrie completed the top six, finishing ahead of Martin Donnelly of Ontario, Americans Jake Himes and John Cassidy, and the top rookie, Robert MacKenzie of Ontario. Twenty-three of the 40 teams that took the start of the Tall Pines bravely made it to the finish.

Peter Thompson is first on the final points’ table with a total of 62, followed by Antoine L'Estage (60), Matthew Iorio (55), John Cassidy (36), Frank Sprongl (35) and Joël Levac (23). The following three drivers - Buffum, Nichols and Pérusse – are all tied at 20 points. The overall co-driver title goes to Rod Hendricksen and Subaru claims the constructors’ championship. The scoring in the various categories and all other information about rally competitions in Canada can be found on the web site of the Canadian Association of Rally Sport at http://www.carsrally.ca/

The Canadian Rally Championship concluded its 49th season of competition with the Tall Pines. The 2006 season will kick off February 4, 2006 in Maniwaki, Quebec with the presentation of the Perce-Neige.

Final standings, Tall Pines (for complete results, please check http://www.rallyscoring.com/):

1) John Buffum - Nathalie Richard (Hyundai Tiburon 4WD) - 1h54'17"
2) Matt Iorio - Ole Holter (Subaru Impreza WRX) - 1h54'36"
3) Peter Thomson - Rod Hendricksen (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo.8) - 2h02'10"
4) Frank Sprongl - Dan Sprongl (Suzuki Swift +) - 2h02'33"
5) Jean-Paul Pérusse - Marcel-Paul Raymond (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo.7) - 2h02'42"
6) Frédéric Labrie - Robert Labrie (Subaru Impreza WRX) - 2h10'23"
7) Martin Donnelly - Robin Fleguel (Subaru Impreza WRX) - 2h12'43"
8) Jake Himes - Matti Himes (Mazda RX-7) - 2h13'25"
9) John Cassidy - Dave Getchell (Subaru Impreza RS) - 2h13'42"
10) Robert MacKenzie - Jeff Hagan (Honda Civic) - 2h21'17''

Competition Speed Racing Engines jumps on board with PMRA

By Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

November 28 2005 - Jordan Station, ON – The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), www.ProModifiedRacing.com, is pleased to have the participation of Competition Speed Racing Engines to post a contingency award at each series event in 2006.

“We have been behind the PMRA right from its inception,” explained Terry Vince, owner and operator of Competition Speed Racing Engines. “The program is simple, the teams utilize our services and they cash in. It’s a win-win situation!”

Competition Speed Racing Engines, http://www.competitionspeed.com/, is located at 2390 South Service Road in Jordan Station, Ontario. Owner Terry Vince has been building engines for all types of motorsports for 14 years, and specializes in complete assemblies for the hardcore racer. In 2005, this new location has allowed the opportunity for access to complete dyno services.

“We see this Competition Speed Racing Engines program as the first of many more to come,” stated Bruce F. Mehlenbacher, Director of Operations of the PMRA. “Terry’s company will pay a cash award to the low qualifier at each of the PMRA events in 2006 and double up if they go on to win the event. This is the kind of racer incentive our teams need.”

At Competition Speed Racing Engines a knowledgeable staff will assist in the fine tuning of all engine packages. The firm sells as well as works with the customer to finish each project. See Terry and his group at all major races throughout Ontario in 2006.

Next Bigger Scion xB to Be Exclusive for North America

Launching in 2006, the next Scion xB will be based off the new-generation Corolla platform and will seriously bulk up in size, according to the Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun industry newspaper.

The current xB (known as the bB, or Black Box, in Japan) is spun off the smaller Yaris platform. Confounding the critics who said it was too compact and quirky for the U.S. market, the xB has proved to be a smash hit. In 2005, U.S.

Scion sales are expected to surpass 150,000 units for the first time. Scion displayed the well-received t2B concept at the 2005 New York Auto Show, as a pointer, perhaps, to the next xB. Designed by Toyota's CALTY studio in Newport Beach, California, the t2B (Tall Two-Box) uses the same 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine as the tC coupe and stands a full 10 inches longer and 4 inches wider than today's 1.5-liter xB.
Before the end of this year, Toyota will launch a new bB in Japan but that's a purely domestic 1.5-liter model.
© edmunds.com

Scion xB photos :

CASCAR: BEAUCHAMP & THE MOPAR PARTS TEAM CELEBRATE SOLID SEASON, NOW LOOKING FORWARD TO THREE MORE!

Ron Beauchamp Jr. and the Mopar Parts team began the 2005 CASCAR racing season looking for improvement. They found it at race number one and all season long, culminating with a sixth place finish in the overall Super Series standings.

With a brand new race car the Mopar team was confident but cautious heading into the racing season. By the time race number one was over they knew they were onto something good.

Ron Beauchamp Jr. claimed victory at the Mopar 250, the opening event of the season and remained one of the fastest cars at every Super Series race event. “Last winter, we built this new car step by step” said Beauchamp. “We did some significant research spent a lot of time getting it set up the way we wanted and it all came together, what a great season”.

Ron Beauchamp Jr. and Team Mopar were recognized for their accomplishments this season at the annual CASCAR Awards Banquet held recently in London, Ontario. The list of awards is impressive, they include; The Inside Track Editors choice award for Race number one at Delaware Speedway, Goodyear Belts & Hose award for the most fast race laps recorded, Fifth in the Snap On Tools “Most Laps Led award, Second in the Mopar Top Five at seasons end, and Sixth in the overall CASCAR Super Series points standings helping Dodge to the Manufacturers Cup victory.

“We sure had a much improved season” commented Beauchamp. “It was such a boost to get that first win right away, and then to back it up with solid performance all season was really important. The Mopar Parts Charger not only claimed victory at Delaware Speedway, but also at Peterborough Speedway. There were also two other podium finishes and a total of five top-five finishes, and nine top-tens. “It sure gives us a lot of inspiration for next year” stated the driver.

The long time relationship with Beauchamp Motorsports and Mopar will continue. It has been confirmed that Ron Beauchamp Jr. will be back behind the wheel for the next three seasons in the Mopar Parts Charger.

On behalf of everyone at Beauchamp Motorsports, have a wonderful holiday season; we’ll see you back at the track in 2006.

The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Stock Car Racing series with events scheduled this year at famed oval tracks including Delaware Speedway & Cayuga Speedway along with road courses and temporary street circuits like the Toronto Indy. You can keep up with the latest news on the CASCAR Super Series by logging onto the website at http://www.cascar.ca/

This release prepared by, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com

2006 Toyota RAV4

There's big news for the new RAV4, headed to dealerships soon: V-6 power and third-row seats.
V-6 power in the RAV is a long time coming, but third-row seats? Really?

That's what we thought when we first heard the news. How could they cram in that third row? But the RAV4 is a lot bigger. While the proportions have stayed roughly the same, truth is, the "little" RAV4 sport-utility is no longer that compact. The upsizing of the RAV4 stretches it by 14 inches overall and puts it at only about 3.5 inches shorter overall than the Highlander, with a wheelbase about two inches shorter than the Highlander. In terms of height and width, the differences are too close to call; even curb weight is comparable.

This translates to an interior that's very roomy for four adult occupants, with space for cargo, too. Toyota claims a 20-percent improvement in overall interior space, with improved head-and-shoulder room in the second row especially, but we also noticed significant improvements in front seating and the driving position. The gauge cluster and steering column are no longer angled up as much, allowing a more natural driving position for those who are of average height or taller.
© thecarconnection.com

CASCAR: SATISFYING SEASON FOR BRAD GRAHAM AND THE CHALLENGER MOTOR FREIGHT/LOGEL’S AUTO PARTS DODGE TEAM

This season Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team took a significant step forward in their CASCAR Super Series racing program. Those accomplishments were rewarded with a fifth place overall finish in the championship standings.

Right from the beginning of the year the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team was a top flight contender recording a total of nine top-ten finishes, five top-five finishes including a season best second place finish at Sun Valley Speedway in Vernon, BC. “This was a year of change for us” stated driver Brad Graham. “We moved into the new Dodge Charger and John Logel and Logel’s Auto Parts brought their support to our team and it all helped us improve our performance on the track”.

Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Charger Dodge team were recognized at the recent CASCAR Awards Banquet for their accomplishments this season, they included; The competitor finishing the season fifth overall is acknowledged each year with a cash award from Jones Brown Inc. The Inside Track Editors Choice Award for their performance in Race number seven at Sun Valley Speedway. Plus, The Mopar Top Five award, Brad tied for second among Mopar drivers, a collects a $3,000 cash award. Brad’s solid performance this season also helped Dodge win the Manufacturers Cup award.


“It was definitely an exciting year for this team and I’m proud of all the guys on this team, their hard work made this possible” commented driver Brad Graham. “This team got better every single week, and we’re already working on our equipment for next season. That’s the most impressive part really, the success we had in 2005 is making us hungrier for next year. We haven’t set any specific goals yet, but a race win is certainly on the list”.


Included in 2006 plans for the team is the continued support of Logel’s Auto Parts. John Logel stated “we’re definitely back again next year. This season was great success for all of us and we’re looking forward to more next season. Brad an the entire Challenger Motor Freight team are a first class outfit, and we at Logel’s Auto Parts are very pleased to be part of the team”.

For everyone at Graham Motorsports, Happy Holidays. We’ll see you at the races next season.

The CASCAR Super Series is Canada’s only sanctioned National touring stock car racing series competing from coast to coast. CASCAR stages events at the most famous oval tracks in Canada such as Cayuga Speedway and Delaware Speedway and also competes on the temporary street circuit at the Molson Indy Toronto.

For more information regarding Brad Graham and the Challenger Motor Freight/Logel’s Auto Parts Dodge log onto cascar.ca.

This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com

CASCAR: MEYERS TRANSPORT/PETERBOROUGH HOMES/PARKVIEW HOMES DODGE TEAM ENJOY A HARD CHARGING SEASON

Bryan Cathcart had a memorable season of racing in the CASCAR Super Series with the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes Dodge Charger. With strong sponsor support and a top notch crew the #71 was in the mix at every event.

“All in all it was a pretty exciting year for us” stated Bryan Cathcart. “We put together a good team of guys with Bill Burns as our crew chief, Tim Ellas helped out too, and we had some good equipment. With that kind of foundation it really helps. The competition in the CASCAR Super Series is really tough”.

At the CASCAR year end awards banquet Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes team were recognized for a significant achievement this past season. The Fast Eddie Racewear “Hard Charger” award is awarded to the Super Series competitor that gains the most positions in feature races during the season. Cathcart was the 2005 winner after gaining a total of 61 positions during the season. The aggressive pursuit of improved position by Cathcart also helped Dodge claim their first Manufacturers Cup award for the Super Series.

“I’m very happy to be given this award, improving every weekend was our goal this year and it shows how hard we worked at it” said Cathcart. “This kind of a season also isn’t possible without all of our sponsors. They really supported us all season long”.

With the holiday season fast approaching Bryan Cathcart and the Meyers Transport/Peterborough Homes/Parkview Homes team would like to take this opportunity with you and yours all the best this holiday season. They look forward to an exciting 2006 racing season.

The CASCAR Super Series is the only National Touring Series of Stock Car Racing in Canada. All CASCAR Super Series Races can be seen on Rogers Sportsnet and SPEED TV. For more information and to follow the progress of Bryan Cathcart and the CASCAR Super Series log onto www.cascar.ca

This release prepared by Todd Lewis, TL Sports & Entertainment, tandt@pathcom.com

I.S.M.A. SUPER MODIFIEDS, SAMMUTS RETURN TO DELAWARE

September 29, 2006 Will Be First ISMA Delaware Appearance in Over 20 Years

Delaware, ON (November 30, 2005): The I.S.M.A. (International Super Modified Association) Super Modifieds will be returning to Delaware Speedway in 2006 for the first time in over 20 years. The event, set for Friday, September 29, 2006, will serve as a homecoming of sorts for local I.S.M.A. star, Mark Sammut of London.

“Everybody’s pumped right up, ourselves included,” said Sammut of the I.S.M.A. return to Delaware. “It’ll be great to have a show at home. Last time I ran at Delaware would have been in 1996 when I won with the Can-Am Midgets. Hopefully we can do that again and win one for the home crowd.”

Mark and his father, Tony, are not entirely sure the exact year that I.S.M.A. last ran at Delaware Speedway, though both guess, “Either 1983 or 1984. Over twenty years anyway.”

The return of I.S.M.A. to Delaware Speedway in 2006 seems fitting, as next season will mark the track’s 55th anniversary. At one time, Super Modifieds used to run weekly at Delaware, which is partly how the Sammuts became involved.

“I had a ‘Super’ for one season, and then went to a Late Model in ’68 or ’69,” said Tony. “I wasn’t very successful so I packed it in. Previously I had worked with John Norton’s Super Modified running Delaware, Flamboro and Nilestown. After I quit that I went to work with Harvey Lennox who ran the London Machinery Car.”

Following in the footsteps of his dad, Mark grew up around racing, specifically Super Modifieds: “When he was a few months old, we used to run Oswego and Delaware and we took him along,” Tony said.

Mark, who began his racing career with go karts and Can-Am Midgets before progressing to the Super Modifieds, will be entering his eighth season racing with I.S.M.A. It’s been at least that long that the Sammuts have been hoping for a Delaware date.

“I have been asking for seven years for I.S.M.A. to go back to Delaware,” said Tony. “I’m thrilled about it.”

The I.S.M.A. Super Modifieds travel around the Northeastern United States, including stops at tracks in New York, Connecticut, Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. As of this writing, the Delaware Speedway show was the only Canadian date on the 2006 schedule.

“We couldn’t be more excited about being a part of the I.S.M.A. schedule,” said Delaware Speedway General Manager Kevin Bulmer. “All through this past year, we got asked – by fans, sponsors and racers – about when and if I.S.M.A. was coming back. We were asked about I.S.M.A. more than any of the other touring groups combined, and I can’t thank Mark and Tony Sammut enough for helping us get that date.”

Advanced tickets for the I.S.M.A. race will go on sale in early December and will be available both through the track and at the PartSource store at 618 Wharncliffe Road in London. A separate announcement will be made once tickets become available.

Delaware Speedway’s full 2006 tentative event schedule should be released within the next week.

More information about the I.S.M.A. Super Modifieds is available at www.ismasupers.com.

For more information contact: Kevin Bulmer, Delaware Speedway, (519) 652-5068 ext. 202 or kevin@delawarespeedway.com // Photos of Mark Sammut of London courtesy I.S.M.A. 2006

Next-gen Land Rover Freelander spied in advance of '06 debut

As Ford-owned Land Rover prepares to launch a new Freelander in 2006, spies caught this nearly undisguised prototype on a recent test. These photos show the 2007-model Freelander as exclusively a five-door; it is bigger, wider, longer and more upmarket than the first-generation Freelander.


The test car rides on a stretched version of the Volvo S40/V50, Mazda 3/Mazda 5 and Euro Ford Focus chassis, the same extended chassis that underpins the next Volvo S60/V70. With this new chassis, look for the Freelander to switch to transversely mounted inline six-cylinder engines supplied by Volvo.
© autoweek.com

CASCAR: Great videos from the Robinsons / JRA

Joel Robinson has passed along a few video files that were run at the CASCAR Super Series / Sportsman Series banquet on Saturday night in London.

The first is a compilation video that Joel prepares for every banquet, featuring race action and shots of everyone that makes up the CASCAR community.

Click here to watch the 2005 CASCAR Banquet Video. (NOTE: This file is 7.5 Mb)

The second video comes from the Robinsons' final show of the season, from Kawartha. It includes footage from the 2005 season as well as some scenes from Don Thomson's incredible five-season CASCAR Super Series National Championship streak.

Click here to watch the video honouring Don Thomson's Super Series National Championship dynasty. (NOTE: This file is 2 Mb)

Thanks again to Joel and Jim Robinson for letting me show these videos on this site.

ALMS: BMW ANNOUNCES RETURN TO AMERICAN LE MANS SERIES WITH TEAM PTG

BRASELTON, GA - Returning to the stage where it successfully battled for GT glory in the early days of the American Le Mans Series, BMW has confirmed its full factory re-entry into North America's premier sports car series for 2006. It is the latest manufacturer to enter the American Le Mans Series, which opens its season March 18 at the 54th annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring.

"Today we welcome The Ultimate Driving Machine back to the ultimate professional sports car racing series - and we could not be more pleased," said Scott Atherton, president and CEO of the American Le Mans Series. "This announcement fulfills one of the 'predictions' that was referenced during my State of the Series address in September. This continues the string of positive announcements and builds upon the momentum that has been growing within the American Le Mans Series over the past year."

BMW represents a piece of the foundation on which the American Le Mans Series was built in 1999. An active member of the series both on and off the track, the marque has a rich history of GT racing with its M3 and M3 GTR, and also in prototype racing.

BMW will go down in series history as the winner of the first race in the history of the American Le Mans Series. JJ Lehto, Tom Kristensen and Jorg Muller piloted a BMW V12 LMR to victory in the 1999 Twelve Hours of Sebring. That same year, BMW became the first team from the American Le Mans Series to win the overall championship at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In all, BMW teams have won 15 times in the series - nine in GT2 and six in LMP1.

Some of the most recognizable names in sports car racing have driven for BMW: Lehto, Kristensen, Hans Stuck, Boris Said and Bill Auberlen, to name a few. Now five years after it last won in the American Le Mans Series, BMW is back.

"The American Le Mans Series represents authentic, world-class sports car racing that is a perfect fit for BMW's authentic, world-class road cars," Atherton said. "It has been a mutually frustrating separation, but with today's announcement we are all back together in the right place."

By returning to GT, BMW will renew its battle with fellow German manufacturer, Porsche, along with competing against the factory-supported Panoz Esperante effort of Multimatic Motorsports Team Panoz and other teams to come. For the first three years of the American Le Mans Series, Porsche and BMW went head-to-head for class honors. BMW won the 2001 GT manufacturers' championship, and BMW teams captured two of the first three team championships in class.


Team PTG will field two factory-backed BMW M3s in the 2006 American Le Mans Series' new GT2S class for sedan-style cars.
Click here for Hi-Res
For its return, Team PTG (Prototype Technology Group) will carry the BMW banner. Team PTG has a place in American Le Mans Series lore, having won the series' first GT team championship behind a stable of drivers including Stuck, Said, Johannes van Overbeek, Brian and Peter Cunningham, and Brian Simo.

"BMW of North America's racing operations, run by Tom Milner's Prototype Technology Group, is a textbook example of the type of program the American Le Mans Series is all about," Atherton said. "They represent the addition of another very professional team with manufacturer support behind them and top level drivers."

"In 2006, BMW fans will see more M3s racing in professional sports car championships than ever before," said Larry Koch, M Brand Manager for BMW of North America, LLC. "With BMW Team PTG ensuring that 'the car is the star' in the American Le Mans Series . we are anticipating another stellar racing season."

Team PTG, BMW's primary U.S. motorsports research and development team for the manufacturer's M3 model, will go down in history again in 2006. The two-car effort will be the first of what is expected to be many entrants in the new GT2S class, a subcategory of GT2. Created by IMSA to encourage passenger car participation for sedan-style cars, all GT2S teams will compete for GT2 points and podium positions in the American Le Mans Series, but they will not be eligible for the 24 Hours of Le Mans.


BMW and Team PTG will receive tire support from long-time partner Yokohama for the 2006 American Le Mans Series season.
Click here for Hi-Res
"This is a historic occasion for everyone at the American Le Mans Series and IMSA," said Tim Mayer, IMSA's COO. "Expanding our grid and increasing the level of competition in our fields is one of our primary goals. It doesn't get much better than bringing back BMW and Team PTG to our series in this capacity."

As was the case in the early days of the series, Yokohama will be the tire supplier for BMW and Team PTG. It was a partnership that worked extremely well in the past.

"We are very excited to renew our motorsports relationship with BMW in the American Le Mans Series," said Robert Dole, Yokohama Product Promotions Manager. "Using the ADVAN race tire, we look forward to building on our past successes with BMW/Team PTG and once again giving the loyal BMW fans something to cheer about in ALMS competition."

All three will return as a team at the American Le Mans Series' Wheels Down Winter Test Days at Sebring International Raceway on Jan. 23-25.

"Along with their long-time partner, Yokohama, we are confident BMW will pick up where they left off with their cars challenging for the GT2 podium at all our events," Atherton said.

For the past two seasons, Team PTG has competed in the Rolex Series' GT class, reeling off 17 victories in 26 events and winning the 2004 manufacturer's championship. That series' decision to allow tube-framed GT chassis with a bolt-on body didn't meet the mindset of BMW to directly market its wares.

Instead, the marque opted for the American Le Mans Series, the only form of motorsport in the world that promotes diversity and imagination among its entries.

"Over the past few months we have announced new teams, new manufacturers, new sponsors, new events in important markets and the best overall television package in American Le Mans Series history," Atherton said. "BMW has recognized all of this and has again embraced the American Le Mans Series as the best fit for its business plan. BMW rejoins the host of other premium brands that have been actively benefiting from the unmatched ROI and genuine sports car competition the American Le Mans Series provides."

BMW's reach is a global one. Because it sells cars all over the world, it has developed one of the largest followings in the world from car owners. BMW will be one of many manufacturers to hold car corrals at American Le Mans Series events in 2006. Owners and fans were the most active group the series saw when BMW competed in the American Le Mans Series, and its return to the series will only strengthen that following.

"The biggest winners today are BMW fans. They have missed the American Le Mans Series and we have missed them," Atherton said. "We received more emails and letters from frustrated BMW fans than all other owners groups combined. But today we put everyone back where they have always wanted to be. We couldn't be happier about this news and I know BMW fans feel the same way."

- From ALMS

Hyundai's redesigned Santa Fe gets third row of seats, refined chassis

SEOUL - The redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe, which will be built in Alabama in the first quarter of 2006, adds a third row of seats.

At 184 inches long, the new Santa Fe is about 7 inches longer than the current model. It's nearly 2 inches wider and higher.The Santa Fe has seven seats, compared with five for the current model. The third row of seats folds flat into the floor.Hyundai says the chassis was revised to make the ride more sedan-like, especially for rear passengers.In North America, the new Santa Fe will have a 3.3-liter V-6 gasoline engine. In Europe it will be available with a new 2.2-liter diesel engine or a 2.7-liter V-6 gasoline engine.

The Korean automaker is targeting sales of 60,000 units a year in Korea, and exports of 150,000 units a year from Korea to markets outside of North America.Company officials wouldn't release a sales target for North America, which will be supplied by the plant in Montgomery, Ala. The plant also assembles the Hyundai Sonata.Hyundai expects the new Santa Fe to compete with the Ford Escape and Jeep Liberty.Prices for the new model were not released.The current model starts at $22,395, including freight.
© autoweek.com

CASCAR Banquet impressions

I attended the CASCAR Super Series / Sportsman banquet on Saturday night in London.

Near the end - after bragging about his health and libido - Tony Novotny predicted that 2006 will be the greatest year in CASCAR history.

Click here to listen to an MP3 of Novotny's speech.

Novotny's tone was markedly more upbeat and less frustrated then when I spoke to him before he went on WindTunnel a few weeks back. I believe the situation regarding the sale of CASCAR to NASCAR has taken a positive turn.

While Novotny's speech was short on specifics - as humorously noted by emcee Todd Lewis (who did a great job, btw) - there was an optimistic tone to the evening.

NASCAR's Canadian point-man Richard Buck was in attendance. And although he didn't speak publicly, he was busy all night discussing the NASCAR situation with any and all comers. The fact that Buck was away from his family for the U.S. Thanksgiving Day Weekend was very much appreciated. I spoke briefly with him after dinner and I feel better about things based on that chat.

I cannot offer specifics about the NASCAR situation, because I don't know them. But I continue to believe that NASCAR has done its due diligence on CASCAR, and that is not what is holding things up. Everyone agrees that it would have been better to announce the sale months ago, but that didn't happen.

There were several strong indications that the situation holding up the sale is very close to being resolved. It sounds like something could happen before the end of the year. I hope that is the case.

Other than that, the night got off to a slow start because a light scaffold fell over while everyone was in the outer room, during the cocktail party. The delay in getting the presentations started cut down on the length of speeches, which was a bonus.

Don Thomson made fun of himself offering the same speech every year.... as he delivered the same speech again. He did a great job and received a few standing ovations from the crowd. Five National championships in a row against such tough competition is an awesome accomplishment.

The most enthusiastic applause was given to Christina Hughes (Chrissy), who resigned from CASCAR in early June to pursue other employment. I had the pleasure of working with her for over a decade and although I will miss her, I wish her nothing but happiness and satisfaction in her future endeavours. She is a great person and she did a great job. It was very nice for her to see that everyone in that room holds her in such high regard.

Everyone was also very happy for the DaimlerChrysler / MOPAR / Dodge contingent, who were on hand to accept their first-ever Manufacturers' Award. They have been one of the series' strongest supporters and they paid out $120,000 in contingency money to their teams in 2006. Wow.

Ron Beauchamp Jr. was smiling as he confirmed that he has extended his contract to drive under the MOPAR banner for another three years. Ron's timing in winning two events in 2006 was impeccable! Congratulations to all involved. Scott Steckly, it was announced, will be switching to a Dodge Charger in '06.

Dion Verhoeven was on hand to accept the 2005 Sportsman Series championship, as was series rookie Ron Lethbridge. TV star Tara MacLeod gave a thoughtful speech as the '05 Super Series rookie winner.

Joel Robinson's video was great once again, summarizing the season and offering lots of smiles. Joel said he'll send me the video to put on the site once he gets a few minutes. He also ran a short clip on Thomson's five championships, which he also might pass along.

Mitsubishi's Colt Wings Edition

The Essen Motor Show has the same meaning to Germans as the SEMA convention to Americans: the wildest cars all in one place. And like every time, Mitsubishi keeps it real.

The Lancer Evo has a cult following all over Europe, but it is not just the rally-bred sedan that enlivens Mitsubishi's Essen presence. Three years ago, Mitsubishi presented a one-off turbocharged Colt, which people got really enthusiastic about. This year it is time for another crazy Colt conversion — this time, a Colt with scissor doors in the style of a Lamborghini Murciélago!

Called Colt Wings Edition, this one-off show car was commissioned by a German Mitsubishi dealer. The exciting door solution was provided by a local specialist, LSD Doors. Additional features include a body kit, 17-inch alloys and leather interior.
© edmunds.com

550-hp 3-Series: Hartge Drops a V10 into an Uber-BMW

Famed BMW tuner Hartge stunned attendees here at the Essen Motor Show with a delicious surprise: a V10-powered 3 Series that should easily outgun the recently released M5.


Hartge, in fact, borrowed the M5's 5.0-liter powerplant and seven-speed AMG gearbox for its new H50 V10. The engine has been massaged to deliver 550 horsepower, while torque remains at 384 pound-feet. Hartge says it has boosted the electronically governed top speed from 155 to 199 miles per hour. A new stainless steel exhaust system can be ordered with a pair of dual round or oval tailpipes.
The tuning house has added a reinforced rear axle and revised suspension pieces, and fitted 20-inch Continental performance tires — 245/30ZR-20s in front and 285/25ZR-20s in the rear.

Hartge, as always, has provided extensive modifications inside and out. The exterior gets a striking two-tone paint job, with additional air vents on the hood and fenders to help cool the big engine. A front lip spoiler and rear apron also have been added.

The cabin of the H50 V10 boasts carbon-fiber trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with carbon inserts, an illuminated leather/aluminum gearshift knob and leather/aluminum handbrake cover.

Hartge says it is also working on similar V10 conversions for the upcoming 3 Series coupe and wagon.
© edmunds.com

Aston Martin Racing DBRS9 Completes First 3000 kms of Testing

The new Aston Martin Racing DBRS9 GT3 car has completed the first 3000 kms of its development programme.

Aston Martin Racing first showed the car at the Le Mans 24 Hours in June. Since then, the team has been putting the first test car through an intensive development programme at circuits around the UK to prove the cars speed and reliability.

"The early tests have been very encouraging, said George Howard-Chappell, Aston Martin Racing team principal. As we would expect with any new car programme, the testing has highlighted a number of areas where we can make improvements, but already we have seen that the car handles well and has the required level of performance for the new GT3 class".

The car has been designed to conform to FIA International GT3 technical regulations, but while competing in a different class to the GT1 DBR9, Aston Martin Racing has been able to carry over much of the technology. The two cars have similar chassis, carbon bodywork and suspension lay-out, and the engine and drivetrain have been developed by the same team of engineers. While primarily designed for the FIA GT3 championship, it is also suitable for national GT series, club racers and as a track day car.

Aston Martin Racing driver, Darren Turner, has completed much of the development work. He said: As the DBRS9 has the same base chassis and layout as the DBR9, it feels very much like the GT1 car. It is also very well balanced and, as a result, it instils a great deal of confidence enabling you to extract all the performance from the Aston Martin V12.

The first DBRS9 chassis have already been assembled and, following engineering sign-off of the test car, the first cars will be built with delivery to customers beginning in December 2005.

The DBRS9 is priced at 175,000 plus tax.
© astonmartinracing.com

DBRS9 Photos:

2006 Lamborghini Murcielago SpyShots

Here are some pictures of the 2006 facelift for the Lamborghini Murcielago :


Modifications are expected to include:
- New front bumper
- New rear bumper/rear design
- New engine cover design
- New small rear wing/lip
- potential changes to exhaust
- potential changes to rear lights
- some form of air intake change on the side
- Interior change
- obviously new engine (600-700hp)
© germancarblog.com

Fiat aims for 20,000 Sedici 4x4 sales in 2006

MILAN, Nov 25 (Reuters) - Italy's Fiat will have 20,000 of its new Sedici land cruisers to sell next year and hopes to sell 5,000 of its Panda Cross four-by-four models, a Fiat spokesman said at a presentation of the cars.
The Sedici aims to compete with five-door hatchbacks such as the Ford Focus and the Volkswagen Golf.
Fiat wants to sell 12,000 in Italy and 8,000 in other major European markets, the spokesman said at the presentation late on Thursday. The car will be launched in Italy on March 10, 2006.
It is part of Fiat's joint development with Japan's Suzuki Motor Corp at the Esztergom plant in Hungary. The spokesman said the number of vehicles available to market was limited by capacity at the plant.
The Sedici will be the official car of the Winter Olympics in Turin, which run from Feb. 10 to Feb. 26.
The Panda Cross, based on Fiat's established Panda model, will be launched in December in Italy and then rolled out next year, with a price likely to be above 15,000 euros ($17,670).
© today.reuters.com

Fiat Sedici Photos:

DRAG RACING: Grisdale Racing Products sponsors PMRA Best Appearing Car in 2006

DUNDAS, ON – The Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) is pleased to announce that Grisdale Racing Products is to sponsor the Best Appearing Car at each series event in 2006.

“Grisdale's focus is to further expand and service the needs of drag racing competitors, and hot rod and street machine enthusiasts,” explained Grisdale’s Drag Racing & Performance Sales Coordinator, Paul Polly.“ The Pro Modified Racing Association will help us with our goal. The series has high profile teams, they draw great crowds, and we are very excited about our involvement.”

With a strong and solid reputation in the auto racing and aftermarket industry, Grisdale Enterprises Inc., is a multi-dimensional company that has been faithfully serving its customers for 25 years. The Grisdale Racing Products Division is a one-stop supplier for high performance and hard-core racing components.

“The Grisdale Racing Products Best Appearing Car Award is great way for them to support the series and most important the teams,” said Tim Miller, Media Director of the PMRA. “We think it’s a great way for Grisdale’s to promote their drag race components.”

A complete line of racing products for the entry-level enthusiast to the full-time professional racer is available from Grisdale Racing Products. It carries a full line of fiberglass and aluminum racecar bodies, frame and suspension components, brake systems, wheels, tires, safety equipment (including Nomex suits), heat shielding materials, infra red pyrometers, and data acquisition products. Grisdale also specializes in driveline systems, on-board timing equipment, as well a full line of gauges, engine and ignition components.

Started late in 2004 and entering its second year of operation, the PMRA ran five events in 2005 at four Ontario, Quebec, and New York locations, with a different winner at each track. The PMRA will provide drag race fans the opportunity to see and hear popular Pro Modified racing in the class known as “the world’s fastest door slammers.”

At present, PMRA officials are negotiating with several eighth and quarter-mile tracks in Ontario, Quebec, Michigan and New York with the plan of presenting a six -event drag racing series in 2006.

The PMRA is a self-governing organization with its own set of technical and safety rules based on the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Pro Modified division. Cars in the PMRA capture the true spirit of hot rodding, and the class offers a widely diverse group of racecars with different types of 2000-horsepower engines propelling the cars down the quarter-mile in the 6.20-second range at 230 mph.

For more information contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher

ALSTAR: Sponsor announcements

SHALLOW LAKE, ON – The SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SUPER SERIES would like to welcome WISECO PISTONS, a new contingency sponsor for the 2006 season.

The winner of the Wiseco Piston Award will be selected, by a draw, at the 2006 year-end awards presentation.

The series would also like to announce the return of Inside Track Motorsport News at a contingency sponsor for 2006. Inside Track has been a proud sponsor of the Shouldice ALSTAR Series for several seasons.

Jack n' Jill's Open House this Saturday (Nov. 26)

MIDLAND, ON - Jack n Jill's annual open house is Saturday, November 26. You won't want to miss this! Click here for directions to their Midland, Ontario location.

HJC Floater suits at an unbelievable price of $249.00 plus taxes. That is a savings of $140.00!!

8,000 watt gas power generator reg $5895.00 while quantities last only $2195.00

Woody studs with washer reg $3.99 each, Saturday only $2.49 each.

Full Face helmets $99.99 taxes in!!

Bring in the family for free face painting, coffee, hot chocolate, other goodies and hourly giveaways.

There will be also be a BBQ with all the proceeds going to the Georgian Bay Snow Riders.

Need info? Call toll free 877-527-4386

See you on Saturday!

Jill

Audi S4 Cabriolet Debuts in Germany

Audi aims to whet enthusiasts' appetites with the world introduction of two performance models, the S4 Cabriolet and the Q7 S line. Both models are expected to arrive in U.S. dealerships as '07 models.
The S4 Cabriolet is a luxurious four-seater with an extra shot of adrenaline, in the form of a 344-horsepower 4.2-liter V8 that makes 302 pound-feet of torque. Audi electronically limits top speed to 155 miles per hour, but says the 0-60 sprint takes only 5.9 seconds.The Q7 S line package from Audi's Quattro GmbH division bundles sport suspension, sport seats and 21-inch cast-aluminum wheels with distinctive visual accents.
Audi is rumored to be unveiling the S6 in January at the Detroit show, although it is not clear whether the mid-range model will get the V8 from the S4 or the Gallardo V10 from the S8 that was introduced last month in Tokyo.
© edmunds.com

2007 Toyota Camry Surfaces on Japanese Web Site

Japanese Web site Auto Gallery Net has published what it purports to be authentic photos of the redesigned 2007 Toyota Camry, which is slated to make its official debut in early January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

If the photos are genuine, the revamped sheetmetal appears to borrow heavily from the new Toyota form language that has begun to emerge on such recently introduced models as the Avalon and the Lexus IS. In fact, the '07 Camry looks more substantial, sophisticated, and expensive than the current design. The Web site says the drag coefficient on the car is a slick 0.28.
Dimensions won't change dramatically, according to Auto Gallery Net. The overall length remains just over 189 inches, while the wheelbase grows about two inches to 109.2 inches. Front and rear track also grow by more than an inch, but the car sits about an inch lower, giving it a more aggressive, European stance. The interior is roomier, and so is the trunk.
A revised DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine will deliver 167 horsepower (in Japan trim) compared with 154 hp for the current U.S.-spec car, and it will be mated to a new five-speed automatic transmission. The Japanese Web site makes no mention of a V6, but the '07 Camry is rumored to be getting Toyota's DOHC 3.5-liter unit as an option in North America. The Japan-spec Camry will be available in both front- and four-wheel-drive variants, but the four-wheel-drive version may not make the cut for North America.
© edmunds.com

Hyundai to show sports car concept, next-gen Santa Fe at Detroit show, prices new Azera

Hyundai's HCD-9 Talus concept car, which is set to make its worlwide debut at the Detroit show, will provide 'a glimpse of the future in the sports car segment,' according to the automaker. The HCD-9 will be unveiled along with the world debut of the company's next generation Santa Fe ute.


Hyundai this week also announced pricing for its 2006 Azera. The all-new fullsize sedan will start at $24,995 when it arrives in showrooms shortly.
The vehicle will come standard with a 3.8-liter V6 rated at 263 hp, electronic stability control and eight airbags. Hyundai says the car gets 19 mpg in city driving and 28 on the highway. Built on a modified Sonata platform, the Azera will vie in the full-sized car segment, against such competitors as the Toyota Avalon and Ford Five Hundred.
The Azera Limited trim level starts at $27,495 and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, leather trimmed and heated seats and a power rear sunshade.
The top trim level, called the Azera Limited with Ultimate Package, starts at $29,995. It features a 10-speaker audio system, six-disc CD changer, power sunroof, telescopic steering column and rain-sensing wipers.
© autoweek.com

Guangzhou International Auto Exhibition

Models presents a Honda Accord car during the Third Guangzhou International Auto Exhibition in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 21, 2005. The exhibition was opened at the Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center on Nov 21.


An Audi expert introduces the Audi Q7 hybrid concept car during the Third Guangzhou International Auto Exhibition in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 21, 2005. The exhibition was opened at the Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center on Nov. 21.


A Toyota employee displays a Toyota i-swing concept car during the Third Guangzhou International Auto Exhibition in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 21, 2005. The exhibition was opened at the Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center on Nov. 21.

© english.people.com.cn

CAR HELP CANADA: Stay safe in snowy conditions

Much of Ontario is expecting its first significant snowfall tonight and that means the usual flurry of needless accidents on our byways and highways.

Car Help Canada, a non-profit consumer association representing motorists right across the Great White North, offers the following tips for anyone who absolutely must drive during the coming snowstorm:

Go slow! Driving too fast for the conditions is the cause of most accidents. Brake, steer and accelerate slowly. A two second separation between vehicles in the normal rule of thumb in clear conditions, but in adverse weather you should remain at least four seconds behind the nearest car ahead;

Practice emergency braking in a vacant lot to get a feel for how your vehicle will behave in the snow. Vehicles with ABS brakes create a rapid pulsing sensation on the brake pedal, which can surprise drivers not accustomed to the system;

Stop, look and steer. In most impending collisions, brake first, look at where you want the vehicle to go and then steer in that direction. All too often drivers fixate on the object they are about to hit, causing the vehicle to follow the drivers eyes directly to the target they should be avoiding.

In a skid, take your foot off the accelerator, put the car in neutral, look where you want to go and steer in that direction;

Instead of focusing on the car immediately in front of you, look down the road for potential trouble ahead;

Consider taking an advanced driving program at a qualified skid school to hone your skills;

Watch out for ruts in the snow or icy patches hidden under snow. In slushy conditions, be sure to periodically check for snow build-up around the wheels which can affect steering;

Be extra cautious when approaching bridges, overpasses and shady areas which freeze sooner and can remain frozen longer;

If you do get stuck or stranded in your vehicle don’t panic. If there is no help nearby stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth and wait for help to arrive.

If you remain in your vehicle, run the engine sparingly and be careful of exhaust fumes. For fresh air, slightly open a window away from the wind;

Tires are the most important safety feature on your car and a good set of winter radials is your best defence against slippery streets, adding as much as 30% better traction over so-called "all season" tires;

Windshield wipers should be changed every spring and fall at the very least, but if your wipers are chattering or smearing have them replaced right away. Specially designed winter blades can offer better clearing in the cold by adding a Teflon coating and sealing the moving parts in a protective rubber housing which keeps ice and dirt out;

Top up your windshield fluid tank with a winter blend designed to resist freezing. Always carry an extra jug in the trunk in case you run out in the middle of a storm;

A good snow brush and ice scraper are essential tools, but be sure to use them properly. Clear the ice from all windows and mirrors, and remove all the snow from your car, especially the hood and roof;

For interview requests and more tips on safe winter driving, contact Car Help Canada at 416-760-3397 (office) or 416-988-7345 (cell).

EDMONTON INT'L RACEWAY: Awards Presentation

Edmonton Int’l Raceway (EIR) celebrates its 2005 Champions on Saturday, November 26, 2005. A most unique Awards Presentation held during shopping hours for everyone to see. NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Late Models will be on display and the top 3 Champions in each EIR Race Class will be suited in their tuxedos as they are honoured for their 2005 racing achievements.

NASCAR Dodge Weekly Series Racer #33 Jeremy Lapainis won the EIR Track Championship and also won 11th place in Division II of the NASCAR Series and was presented with his award in Nashville on November 5th.

We invite you to attend this exciting event. The racers will be available for interviews, Kevin Nevalainen, Senior Executive with NASCAR will be attending, Ron & Loretta Thiering, Promoters of EIR will be available for interviews.

NASCAR DODGE WEEKLY RACE SERIES – TOP 3
#33 - Jeremy Lapainis – Airdrie
#07 - Greg Moir – Stony Plain
#4 – Rob Dowler – Edmonton

K-ROCK THUNDER CARS – TOP 3
#99 – Lee Krause – Edmonton
#13 – Ray Verstraete – Edmonton
#10 – Roy Wallace – Edmonton

STEEN HANSEN SPEEDWAY SUPER MOTO - CHAMPION
#15 – Dennis Hansen – Edmonton

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

LORETTA THIERING
Phone: 467-9276
Cell: 497-8262 U-PULL-IT CLAIMER CARS – TOP 3
#50 – Marc Bouchard – Edmonton
#17 – Mark Rogers – Spruce Grove
#7 – Mike Elhard – Edmonton

HIT TO PASS CHAMPION
#4 Jim Mack – Ardrossan

IMCA MODIFIEDS – TOP 3
#50 – Trevor Boys – Calgary
#8 – Mitch Lauzon – Edmonton
#18 – Rob Leier – Red Deer

ALBERTA OUTLAW MODIFIEDS
Tied - #11 John Jones – Clive, Alberta & #15 Karey Stular – Ardrossan

TSN: The Indy... er, Honda Racing League?

TSN.ca Staff // 11/21/2005 10:40:47 AM

Honda will apparently have to service and supply every team in the Indy Racing League in 2006. According to a report on SpeedTV.com, Toyota is expected to confirm this week that it is pulling out of the open wheel series one year earlier than anticipated.

"I don't have anything I can confirm for you, that's pretty much where it's at," Jim Aust, president and CEO of Toyota Racing Development told Robin Miller of SpeedTV.com over the weekend.

Sources say Toyota informed the IRL it was not planning on doing any engine development next year, it's final one with the open-wheel series. Barnhart then approached Honda about the possibility of servicing and supplying all of its teams in 2006.

Penske Racing, one of Toyota's top teams, has already announced a switch to Honda power for 2006 while Chip Ganassi was widely expected to make the move to Honda as well.

Honda has already committed to supplying engines to the IRL through 2009 but it was planning on being the sole supplier starting in 2007. General Motors pulled out of the series at the end of the 2005 season.

Toyota is rumored to be ramping up its efforts to go NASCAR racing in 2007. It is currently competing in the Craftsman Truck Series.

Tara MacLeod and Central Merchant Services Team Featured at Performance Racing Industry Trade Show

Haines City, FL – Tara MacLeod, the 2005 CASCAR Super Series PowerWater Rookie of the Year Champion and her #37 Central Merchant Services Ford Taurus will be featured at the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Orlando, Florida December 1 to 3.


The Performance Racing Industry Trade Show annually attracts over 45,000 members of the racing industry from 40 countries. With more than 1,300 companies exhibiting in 3,900 booths it is the gateway to the worldwide racing marketplace.

“Wow, PRI is the world’s largest auto racing trade show,” explained MacLeod. “I’m really excited. Central Merchant Services has given Kerry (Micks) and me the opportunity to show off our equipment to the who’s who of motorsport.”

MacLeod's Ford Taurus racecar is prepared by Micks Motorsports of Mt. Albert, Ontario, under the leadership of Kerry Micks, veteran CASCAR Super Series competitor and this car can be viewed in the Central Merchant Services display.

"The PRI Show will give Central Merchant Services a perfect opportunity to introduce Tara, her race car and our corporate services to the racing fraternity,” stated Kevin Pankow, CEO and President of Central Merchant Services. "We are very proud of the team’s accomplishments in 2005.”

Central Merchant Services serves retail, home-based, mail order, phone order, internet, restaurant and other service-based businesses. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, debit and checks can all be accommodated with its credit card machines and software, offering competitive rates and reliable service.

The Performance Racing Industry Trade Show provides a professional business atmosphere where racing retailers, race engine builders, race car fabricators, race engineers and WDs can conduct business face to face with suppliers, preview next year’s hottest new racing products, make buying decisions, and have new lines in inventory for the start of the next racing season.

Under the team banner of MacLeod Racing, http://www.taramacleod.com/, 32-year old Tara MacLeod has been a strong competitor on the Ontario short-tracks for the past 10 years, with several awards to her credit.

She has always wanted to step up her racing career, and is very enthused about competing in the entire coast-to-coast 12-race CASCAR Super Series and 2005 marked her first year in CASCAR.

Central Merchant Services, http://www.centralmerchant.net/, has a nationwide network that works through its processing banks to provide merchant accounts for credit card processing needs. Central Merchant Services has become one of the most competitive companies in the industry.

Central Merchant Services serves retail, home-based, mail order, phone order, internet, restaurant and other service-based businesses. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, debit and checks can all be accommodated with its credit card machines and software, offering competitive rates and reliable service.

CASCAR, http://www.cascar.com/, is Canada's top level of stock car racing with a twelve race national schedule that includes the diversity of short oval tracks, road and street course racing. The series is home to Canada's top race teams and drivers, and is renowned for its fierce competition and truly exciting on-track action. CASCAR has a membership of over 150 race teams across the country, and also operates regional race series' in Eastern and Western Canada. Featuring North American-based, fiberglass-bodied Chrysler Intrepid and Charger, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Monte Carlos, and Pontiac Grand Prix cars that closely resemble the various makes street cars, these full-bodies racers tip the scales at 2850 pounds. From the streets of Molson Indy Toronto to Canada's premier oval track facilities, CASCAR provides race fans with an awesome show of speed, driving talent and professionalism.

MacLeod Racing is sponsored by Central Merchant Services, ATA Motorsports, Castrol Canada, Degil Safety Products Inc., FXR Racing, Instant Custom Signs, KP Graphics, RV Warehouse and The Trailer Shop in the CASCAR Super Series.

For more information, contact Bruce F. Mehlenbacher mehlenbacher@TaraMacLeod.com

Tiki-Style BMW 3 Series Sports the Surfer Look

Local (ESSEN, Germany) tuners have come out in full force. One of the more entertaining efforts comes from Bavarian tuning house Mattig, based in Hauzenberg. It is a so-called "tiki-style" 3 Series, complete with a set of 235/30ZR-20 tires mounted on 20-inch "Surfer" rims.
One of the more entertaining efforts comes from Bavarian tuning house Mattig, based in Hauzenberg. It is a so-called "tiki-style" 3 Series, complete with a set of 235/30ZR-20 tires mounted on 20-inch "Surfer" rims.


The paint job, said to be inspired by a Hawaiian surfer film, is a wild white-on-blue two-tone that appears to have been lifted from a pair of swim trunks spotted on Waikiki Beach.
Mattig, which also customizes everything from the Opel Corsa to the Skoda Octavia, further enhances the cosmetic look with a fiberglass front spoiler, a diamond-pattern grille, and headlamp covers, as well as a rear apron and spoiler. The car also can be ordered with KW coil-over suspension pieces.
Mattig earlier this year introduced a more conservative upgrade package for the 3 Series that, in addition to the body kit, includes aluminum floor mats, gearshift and pedals
© edmunds.com

NASCAR Canada Inks Deals with Procter & Gamble and CGC Inc.

TORONTO (November 21, 2005) – NASCAR Canada today announced multi-year agreements with Procter & Gamble (P&G) and CGC Inc., making both companies Official Partners of NASCAR in Canada.

The three-year deal with P&G’s Old Spice brand provides category exclusivity for its deodorant, anti-perspirant, soap, cologne and body wash products, while the four-year sponsorship agreement with CGC Inc. makes CGC the official and exclusive building products supplier of NASCAR in Canada. Both P&G and CGC will use their affiliation with NASCAR in Canada in a variety of in-market initiatives, including a customized media campaign tailored around broadcasts of NASCAR races.

In addition, P&G will incorporate NASCAR imagery and logo on select Old Spice products, packaging and point of sale materials in Canada, and will also launch a limited edition deodorant product featuring NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series star Tony Stewart.

"We are thrilled to have Old Spice as the official NASCAR partner in the personal cleansing and anti-perspirant/deodorant categories," said Fiona Stevenson, Procter & Gamble Category Brand Manager for the personal cleansing and anti-perspirant/deodorant categories in Canada. "There is a very strong overlap between the Old Spice consumer base and the NASCAR Canadian fan base, which has paved the way for some exciting co-marketing activities that we will bring to market this year."

“CGC is excited about our relationship with NASCAR, the fastest growing sport in North America,” said Pat Lisson, Director of Marketing – Canada, CGC Inc. “NASCAR fans fit our demographic and customer profile very well and we view this as a great opportunity to build our brands and create awareness.”

These two agreements complement existing U.S. relationships. CGC’s parent company, USG Corporation, is also an official partner of NASCAR in the U.S. and the title sponsor of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series USG SHEETROCK® 400 race at Chicagoland Speedway in July.

“NASCAR Canada is thrilled to enter into long-term relationships with two best-in-class Canadian partners who will help promote and grow the sport,” said Randy Paul, Managing Director, NASCAR Canada. “These relationships showcase the power and relevancy of the NASCAR brand in Canada.”

NASCAR has a strong fan base in Canada with 5.8 million fans (one out of four Canadian adults). NASCAR is the No. 1 televised motorsport in Canada. TSN’s coverage of the 2005 Daytona 500 attracted a national average minute audience of 506,000 viewers*, making it the most watched motorsport race ever in TSN’s 21-year history.

Research shows that NASCAR fans are the most brand conscious among all professional sports fans. NASCAR fans are three times more likely to purchase the products of NASCAR sponsors compared to companies not involved in the sport.

About P&G:
P&G Beauty sells more than 130 different brands in over 180 countries worldwide that touch and improve lives daily. P&G Beauty had more than $19 billion in global sales in fiscal year 2004/05, making it one of the world’s largest beauty companies. The global leading beauty company at mass, P&G Beauty brands include: Old Spice®, Pantene®, Olay®, Cover Girl®, Infusium 23®, Max Factor®, Herbal Essences®, Crest Whitestrips®, Hugo Boss®, Wella®, Clairol Nice ’n Easy®, Gillette®, and Head and Shoulders®. Please visit http://www.pg.com/ for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G Beauty and its brands.

About CGC Inc.:
CGC Inc. is a leading marketer, manufacturer and distributor of gypsum wallboard products, interior finishing materials and suspended acoustical ceilings in Canada. We produce wallboard panels under the renowned SHEETROCK® Brand. Today, after decades of product development and market expansion, CGC is recognized as a key player in Canada's dynamic building materials industry, supplying innovative wall and ceiling products to the new construction and repair and remodel markets of the residential, commercial and institutional sectors. For more information about CGC Inc., visit the CGC website at www.cgcinc.com

About NASCAR Canada:
NASCAR Canada supports the continued growth of the NASCAR fan base and further extends the popular NASCAR brand in Canada through sponsorship and licensing opportunities, marketing initiatives, multi-platform media programs and grassroots projects. Established in June 2004, NASCAR Canada is a joint relationship between NASCAR and TSN, and is operated by TSN Events.

-30-

Dodge Has Challenger Coupe for Detroit

A new concept coupe to be shown at the Detroit auto show in January will take the name of Challenger. The long-expected two-door will take on the Ford Mustang directly with a chassis derived from Chrysler's 300C/Magnum twins, along with a 425-hp version of the HEMI V-8 in the most thrilling versions.

Chrysler is expected to show the car as a concept at the show, but insiders suggest the vehicle will be in production as early as 2009 on a new version of the 300C platform. Chrysler has only offered this official sketch of the concept prior to the January auto show debut, but these spy shots were taken last week as the vehicle was prepared for its auto-show debut. Stay tuned for more information on the Challenger as TCC previews the Detroit auto show on December 15.
© thecarconnection.com

Spy Shots:

2006 Porsche 911 Carrera 4s Hit U.S. Dealerships

Porsche announced on Thursday that its much anticipated all-wheel-drive versions of the 911 Carrera coupes and cabriolets will be officially launched in U.S. showrooms this weekend. They include the 911 Carrera 4 and 4S coupe and open-top 911 Carrera 4 and 4S cabriolets.


The vehicles range in price from $77,100 for the 2006 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 coupe to $97,100 for the 911 Carrera 4S cabriolet. For the first time, four-wheel-drive 911 Carrera models will be available with two engine options. Carrera 4 coupes and cabriolets are powered by the 325-horsepower, 3.6-liter flat-six. Carrera 4S models are equipped with a 3.8-liter power plant.
© edmunds.com

SHOULDICE ALSTAR: Changes for 2006

From the Shouldice ALSTAR Series:

The SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Drivers meeting took place at the Blue Mountain Inn – Collingwood, Ontario, with a packed house. The SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SERIES will take on a new look for 2006.

With recent developments the SHOULDICE ALSTAR RACING SERIES will not be touring as it traditionally has in the past. After contacting all participating tracks ALSTAR was unable to receive any commitments from the speedways.

With unprecedented sponsorship by SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE of Shallow Lake, Ontario, and the backing of all top ALSTAR late model race teams. As well as series associate sponsors including – CRC, Quaker State, Rain-X, Spira Fire Protection, WIX, Five Star Stock Car Bodies, Hoosier Race Tires, and McColl Racing Enterprises - the 2006 SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR SERIES will continue with a series of "Super Weekend Events."

These events will be sure to please our ALSTAR Race fans need for speed, as well as increase the number of competitors and competition in this already highly recognized series. Teams will be competing for far greater purses then ever before.

These "SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Super Series Weekend Events" will all take place Sauble Speedway home of the ALSTAR Series, located in Sauble Beach, Ontario, Canada. This fan friendly racing facility will create three race experience weekends designed to entertain the race fan from the minute they get to the track. Including headline pre-race entertainment, autograph sessions, and tons of door handle to door handle SHOULDICE ALSTAR Super Series racing action.

Details of the SHOULDICE ALSTAR SERIES for 2006 will be released on http://www.alstarseries.com/ in the very near future.

We would like to thank all race teams that registered today. With today’s registrations we have already exceeded the number of drivers pre-registered at this time last year.

The Tradition Continues…

Just a Few Quotes from the meeting:

#38 Kirk Hooker – 2005 SHOULDICE STONE ALSTAR Champion - "I am going to defend my title!"

#82 Jason Shaw - "We have got a new car in the works, we plan on winning in 06"

Bob Sanders - SHOULDICE DESIGNER STONE - "I’m pumped, let's go to the next level!"

TONY STEWART: Nice to see

Great finish to the NASCAR season yesterday afternoon at Homestead.

Exciting race, an incredible finish and championship drama to the end. Brian France couldn't have scripted it any better. I guess he did script it, but that's another issue.

It was very nice to see Tony Stewart's reaction and that of his team to the championship. Sounds like the guy has had a lot of demons in his past, and now has them in check. From the sound of things, there was as much turmoil inside the team the last time they won the championship as it appeared there was from the outside.

I guess people mellow with age. I don't think Richard Petty will be heading to the banquet questioning Tony Stewart's ability to be a 'worthy' champion this time around, which is good for the sport. Congratulations to Tony Stewart and the HD team!

Mark Martin was close to winning the race and the championship (4th). Wouldn't it be something if he won next year, in the season in which he was supposed to be starting his retirement?

Finally, did anyone catch the post-qualifying story by Vic Rauter on TSN? It talked about Paul Tracy hoping to get into some Cup races in '06 and maybe full-time in '07. While Rauter was talking, the video was of a pit chat featuring Tracy, Roger Penske and an incognito-looking (hat, shades and without the NASCAR-issue beige chinos) Richard Buck. Buck is NASCAR's point-man in Canada. Buck used to work for Penske. Busy guy.

Mazda Announces $280,000 Grand-Am GT RX-8 Racing Car

Developing a Grand AM GT-legal car is the next step in expanding our already successful Grand Am program," said Steve Sanders, manager of Mazdaspeed Motorsports Development, in a statement.
The Grand Am GT RX-8 is based on a tube-frame chassis jointly developed by SpeedSource and Riley Technologies and powered by Mazda's three-rotor 20B rotary engine. A turnkey GT racer from SpeedSource will start at $280,000 and include chassis, full drivetrain and engine management system, suspension, wheels, tires, and bodywork.

Mazdaspeed will also carry the Downing/Atlanta carbon-fiber body panels and the 20B racing engine on a made-to-order basis. It says it will "offer a lucrative contingency awards program for the RX-8 in Grand-Am GT for the 2006 season."
© edmunds.com

2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS

How far can you push (ok, pull) front-wheel drive? How about 303 horses, 5.6 seconds to 60 mph and a top end pushing 145 mph? These are the raw numbers for Chevy's updated and seriously pumped-up 2006 Monte Carlo SS coupe. Yes, it has a V-8, the first time one's been available in a Monte Carlo since the mid-1980s. And yeah, it drives the front wheels this time.

For starters, the new SS has an all-alloy 5.3 liter V-8 burbling out a stout 303 horsepower - quite an uptick from the old SS's puny (by current standards) 180-hp "high output" 5.0-liter V-8. For another, it's almost three full seconds quicker to 60 (mid-low fives vs. the mid-low eights for the '80s-era SS).
And finally, there's next to no torque steer when you hammer it, thanks to equal stiffness half-shafts and an extruded aluminum engine cradle and triple engine mounts designed to limit engine flex under torque load, among other refinements.
Chevy has also upgraded lower-caste Montes. The standard 3.5 liter V-6 engine in the base model LS ($21,380) now makes a very decent 211 hp and the mid-level 3.9 liter V-6 that's optional in the LT and standard in the LTZ metes out 240 hp, 60 more than the old V-8 SS of the mid-late '80s. Both V-6s feature variable valve timing, but not displacement on demand. OnStar is standard across the line.

The SS model I flogged at Charlotte carries a base price of $27,130, putting it well below the Pontiac GTO and right in the middle of Mustang GT territory. And while it may not be a direct competitor of rear-drive performance coupes like the Goat and Mustang, it is an alternative - one with real back seats, a big trunk (15.8 cubic feet), a very appealing price tag, and more than enough performance to be credible when the time comes to put up or shut up.

The infusion of V-8 power means that Monte Carlo SS owners are no longer condemned to motor toothlessly around the parking lot at Talladega or Martinsville looking silly in their V-6 pretend stockers - all decal, no cattle. The bark of that 303-hp V-8 is plenty convincing.
© thecarconnection.com

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