Max Auto Updates - 15/12/2009

Women's WCOTY winners

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A panel of female journalists have voted the Jaguar XF as the inaugural World Women's Car of the Year.

This Big Cat trounced the Volvo XC60 and thumped the Volkswagen Golf 6 to be chosen as the favourite amongst the ladies.

The judging panel comprised eight female motoring journalists from around the world - and included a juror from South Africa.

"We searched for quite a while to gather together women motoring writers who could qualify to vote for this award and it wasn’t easy because female motor journalists aren’t exactly thick on the ground," chief judge, New Zealander Sandy Myhre said.

Qualifying cars had to be sold in at least 10 countries and had to be available between September 2008 to September 2009.

Winners in the four categories were chosen from a shortlist of 21 cars decided earlier this year. Judging criteria included storage spaces, dashboard friendliness, child friendliness, aesthetic appeal and driveability. The car's "sex appeal" was also considered.

Luxury Car of the Year and overall winner - Jaguar XF
Runner up - Audi A6

Family Car of the Year - Volvo XC60
Runner up - Honda Accord

Sports Car of the Year - Audi TTS
Runner up - Mazda MX-5

Economy Car of the Year - Volkswagen Golf TDI
Runner up - Ford Fiesta

While the judges admitted that a luxury car as the overall winner was an unexpected result given what is generally considered to be a "woman's car", the Jag was considered to be "well-constructed, competent, comfortable, a combination of sport and luxury and ideal for women".

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GM Sells Saab Technology to Beijing Auto



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GM has announced they have closed a deal to sell outdated Saab technology to China's Beijing Automotive Industry Holdings Co. Ltd (BAIC).

While details are scarce, GM will transfer tooling (for the current 9-3/9-5) and powertrain technology to BAIC. Furthermore, Saab will provide assistance to help integrate these technologies into upcoming BAIC vehicles.

According to Saab's Managing Director, Jan Åke Jonsson, "This arrangement is excellent for both parties, now and for the future. We have developed a good relationship with BAIC and look forward to working with them to integrate this Saab technology into their future vehicles."

The move will give Saab a much-needed cash infusion, which will likely be used to finance operations until the brand is sold or phased out. As you may recall, Koenigsegg backed out of plans to buy Saab, in late November, putting the company's future in jeopardy. Since then, several bidders (Spyker, the Renco Group, and Merbanco Inc) have expressed interest in the brand.

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2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is



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BMW may not be planning an M version of the new Z4 but that has not stopped the Bavarians from providing fans with this smokey range-topping high-performance sDrive35is model. Spied testing a few times before, the car is a double treat for BMW fans who also longed for the return of the "is" badge. Improvements are not just in the engine bay but also in the exterior and interior appointments.

The standard M Sports Package includes a new front bumper with a very distinctive M look and outer air intakes finished in matt aluminium, standard 18-inch light alloy rims (19-inch optional), a new rear bumper with specially accentuated surrounds on the tailpipes and a two-piece diffuser. The exhaust note is supposed to be reflective of the car's status in the scheme of things.

The adjustable suspension is lowered by 10 millimetres and provides a good balance between sporty and comfortable.

Making the Z4 sDrive35is extra special is an upgraded engine system whose power was increased from a standard 225kW to 250kW available at 5,800rpm. However, US customers will have to make do with only 246kW. Torque has been boosted from 400Nm to 450Nm between 1,400rpm and 4,500rpm under normal driving. A special overboost function takes it to 500Nm.

Thanks to Launch Control it will sprint from 0 - 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and stop accelerating at 250km/h. The transmission is the 7-speed double-clutch used in the normal sDrive35i. Average fuel consumption is said to be 9.0 litres/100 kilometres while corresponding C02 emissions are 210g/km.

To make this all happen the incumbent's 3.0-litre twin turbo unit was tweaked through actions like optimising air supply and increasing boost pressure. The two small turbos made from special steel have very low inertia and can cope with temperatures of more than 1,000° C.

The interior features M entry strips, gearlever knob, aluminium carbon and a new leather colour. There are six exterior colours but regardless of what hue a buyer chooses the side mirrors are always in Oxide Silver.

BMW will debut the Z4 sDrive35is at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month. US and European Market launch is in spring. All other Z4 models will also be offered with the M Sports Package as an option.

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Spyker still in contention for Saab



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Spyker is still very much in the running to takeover Saab, despite a Chinese company's purchase of the 9-3 and 9-5 models. The Dutch sports car manufacturer continued talks with GM executives this past weekend in Zurich.

The Dutch company has partnered with RMC Convers Group Holdings in a bid for the ailing Swedish brand. Other companies said to be interested include Renco Group, owned by billionaire Ira Rennert, and Merbanco, an investment firm based in Wyoming. Koenigsegg had previously reached an agreement with Saab parent General Motors. The niche supercar manufacturer, also based in Sweden, pulled out of the deal just after GM scuttled plans to sell Opel to Magna.

Despite the multitude of interest, media outlets in Sweden, The Netherlands, and America have identified Spyker as the front-runner to win Saab. As a small manufacturer, Spyker may be more appealing to General Motors as a purchaser, because it may prove to be more difficult for the Dutch company to turn Saab into a brand capable of competing with GM's marketing and large-volume production abilities.

Still, Spyker and Saab could benefit from platform- and technology-sharing, in turn helping both cut costs. This is crucial for Spyker, a company that has not turned a profit since going public in 2004, and for Saab, a company preparing to launch its first new vehicle in seven years.

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Speeding biker gets R18 000 fine

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A motorcyclist was given a R18 000 fine by Scottburgh Magistrate's Court on Monday after being caught speeding at 232km/h, KwaZulu-Natal's transport MEC said.

The man was arrested on the N2 southbound near Scottburgh on Friday.

"We hope he has learned and will accordingly modify his behaviour," Willies Mchunu said in a statement.

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SA's car goal 'impossible'

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Nissan South Africa managing director Mike Whitfield doesn't foresee that South Africa will soon, if ever, manufacture more than a million vehicles.

To reach that number the seven large manufacturers would each have to produce 150 000 to 200 000 vehicles or more.

He reckons this is a practical impossibility.

At this stage most manufacturers are still striving to produce 50 000 units a year, in keeping with the requirements of the Automotive Production and Development Plan, so as to qualify for certain government incentives. The new plan becomes operational in 2013.

With the domestic market currently at only half its 2006 peak, and with exports having suffered a serious blow this year compared with their record year in 2008, many of the motor industry's former aims are beginning to look like pipe dreams.

Whitfield says South Africa competes with countries like India, Asia and Brazil - but not Europe.

Production here is considerably more expensive than in other countries.

Furthermore, the looming electricity price hikes are hanging over manufacturers' heads.

Whitfield says future growth will be slow and it is unlikely that 2006's domestic sales numbers will again be achieved before 2014 or 2015.

Whitfield says Nissan is determined to produce more than 50 000 units by 2013. Between 40% and 50% of these units will be exported, he adds.

There are positive indications for exporting the one-ton bakkie - to Europe, in particular.

Max Auto Updates - 14/12/2009

Engen: No DIY breathalysers

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Contrary to an Arrive Alive announcement, Engen has said its service stations will not stock disposable breathalyser tests in December.

At the launch of the latest Arrive Alive campaign earlier this week, it was announced by Transport Minister S'bu Ndebele that disposable breathalysers would be on sale to the public from Engen service stations during December.

However, the fuel company now says this announcement was based on misinformation.

“We were approached by the suppliers’ agents just weeks ago, and made it very clear then that it was very late in the day to arrange outlets, as we needed to consult our dealer network,” said Pierr Roodt, Engen's retail marketing manager.

The ministerial announcement was made before the supplier deal had been struck and suppliers have said no units will be available before January 12, the company said.

“As regards the unavailability of units at our dealer sites, that cannot be said to be Engen’s fault,” Roodt said. “In truth, Engen is only one of several retailers that have been earmarked to distribute the devices."

Engen was unable to say when the disposable drug units would be available at its service centres.

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Holiday driving tips

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If you are not a racing or transport driver, the end of year vacation trek is probably the most challenging drive you’ll be tasked with all year.

South African road accident statistics read like the script of a bad B-grade horror movie, and if you factor in the vast distances between vacation spots there is plenty that can go wrong. Best you be prepared, then.

It stands to reason that your vehicle should be in working in good nick before tackling the long road, but here are five fundamental checklist items we'd suggest you tick off before carting the family down to the coast.

1) Can you spanner it?

Make sure you know how your car’s spare wheel arrangement works. Many modern vehicles do not sport full size spare wheels and instead do with skinny space saver instead.

Sometimes these space savers require inflation with a special pump. It would save a lot of roadside family tension if you have read the instructions a couple of times and familiarised yourself with your car’s spare wheel changing regime.

2) All diesel is not created equal

If you drive a contemporary turbodiesel vehicle, you’ll no doubt be pleased as punch with its outstanding fuel economy and range.

The downside, of course, is South Africa’s rather putrid diesel fuel quality.

Locally, fuel can vary from outstanding coal-to-oil refined stuff to horrendous rural diesel. Ensure you know which service stations along your route stock 50ppm fuel and plan refuelling stops well within your car’s range capability.

3) You are not Giniel de Villiers

Although excessive speeding is a primary cause of road accident, fatigue is (excuse the pun) an even bigger silent killer.

Around the time you’re returning from vacation in early January, South African racing superstar Giniel de Villiers will be defending his Dakar title. Giniel doesn’t race 1 000-km legs per day (and he is the world’s best at traversing gruelling road conditions at speed, day after day, you know), neither should you.

Stop every 250km and don’t try to be a hero by covering 1 500-a-day legs. It’s just not safe and your kids will drive you insane when they're cooped up in the car for 12 hours straight…

4) Keep your illumination true

South Africa contains thousands of kilometres of dirt roads, much of it accessed en masse during the peak vacation season.

The net result of driving badly maintained dust roads is a film of dirt collecting over your headlights.

By the time it’s necessary to switch to those headlights on as night times approaches, is that an appreciable level of illumination would be lost to clinging dirt. This has potentially dire consequences if other road users cannot see you.

So, remember to clean off your headlights after a particularly punishing dirt or off-road driving session.

5) Be load sensitive

Be sensible when loading your vehicle or hitching a trailer or caravan.

Don’t exceed your vehicle’s tow rating.

If you are hauling with a raised body vehicle (4X4 or double-cab bakkie) ensure you’ve fixed a drop-plate to keep the trailer/caravan attachment angle at a slight decline. A raised rig can have disastrous swaying and bucking consequences.

Also, despite being able to power up to the legal limit, tow at a speed that would leave you with a generous safety margin if there is an emergency.

But above all, take the time to enjoy the beautiful scenery this country has to offer. And relax - it is a holiday, after all.

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AC Schnitzer 335d Coupe Breaks Diesel World Record



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AC Schnitzer's ACS3 3.5d Coupe has broken the world diesel speed record, at the Nardò test track in southern Italy.

The achievement occurred earlier this year, when an ACS3 3.5d posted a top speed of 288.7 km/h. This is a full 8.7 km/h faster than the previous record, which was set back in 2006.

While the company declined to release technical specifications, AC Schnitzer's website says the 335d can be tuned to produce 228 kW.

As you may recall, AC Schnitzer is no stranger to setting world records. In 2006, they built the world's fastest road-legal BMW (dubbed the TENSION). A year later, the GP3.10 was crowned the world's fastest LPG-powered vehicle (it hit a top speed of 318.1 km/h).

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RDSport RS46 - Latest BMW M3 E92 program



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RDSport has a history of tuning BMW cars going back over 25 years. What they have done to this M3, dubbed the RS46, is a culmination of those years' experience.

"The RS46 is truly the motor that BMW should have installed in the M3 in the first place" says the official statement. Bold claims indeed but it seems there is some real backup for it. So confident is RDSport that they say the car's engine internals could withstand the rigours of Formula One.

Delving a little bit into the figures we see that the standard 4.0-litre V8 has been reworked to include larger aluminium pistons, forged, billet connecting rods and a new billet crankshaft with a longer stroke. Put together these changes result in a new 4.6-litre, 391kW tyre shredder with 556Nm of torque. Performance figures were not supplied.

The chassis is enhanced by using specially-valved Bilstein shocks and RDSport Springs. The front is lowered by some 30mm while the rear goes down by 25mm.

Differentiating kit includes a carbon/Kevlar RDSport front bumper, a carbon fibre meshed rear diffuser, and factory-PDC-compatible aero bits. The interior is highly customisable to suit any customer's needs.

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Edo Competition Lamborghini Gallardo LP600/4



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Edo Competition has unveiled the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP600/4.

Boasting 441 kW and 572 Nm of torque, the LP600/4 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds before hitting a top speed of 340 km/h. Compared to the standard Gallardo LP560-4, the LP600/4 has an additional 29 kW and 32 Nm of torque. It is 0.2 seconds faster to 100 km/h and has 15 km/h higher top speed.

Besides the extra power, Edo installed a sport suspension "to improve drivability, driving dynamics and precision." While details are limited, the company says the suspension features low friction shock absorbers, revised spring rates, and adjustable dampers.

In terms of styling, the LP600/4 has a new front spoiler lip, a stainless steel exhaust system (with butterfly valves that are activated via a remote), and 19-inch three-piece racing wheels (with artificially-aged cast center-sections, hand-polished outer rims, and stainless steel screws) outfitted with high-performance Dunlop Sport Maxx tires.

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Hofele R8-Look Body Kit for Audi A5



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German tuner firm Hofele Design have come up with the perfect gift for the poseur in your family. The Hofele R8-Look aerokit is capable of ruining your Audi A5, be it the convertible, coupe, or Sportback.

For an undisclosed sum, customers receive a new front bumper, side skirts with air intakes, side blades, and rear spoiler. Customers also get the R8 V10-Look rear bumper with lamella inserts and rear diffuser. Conveniently, this setup only fits the sold-separate Hofele quad-pipe sports muffler. Authentic-looking air vents are also available at the front.

Coupe owners can also get a custom boot-lid spoiler, not available on the other models. Sportback owners: only the front bumper with vents is available for you.

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G-POWER X5 M and X6 M TYPHOON with 441kW Announced



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G-POWER's reputation as a hard hitter in the world of BMW tuning is further affirmed by this dazzling performance and equipment package for the new BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M. The aerodynamic kit is largely derived from the G-POWER Widebody-Kit TYPHOON.

Both SUVs feature a full carbon fibre front skirt with striking air inlets, a bonnet made of Kevlar hybrid or carbon fibre, and wide carbon fibre side skirts. A rear diffuser compliments the bragging four tailpipes. G-POWER says they emit a powerful deeptone sound. The X5 M is fitted with one-piece aluminium wheels measuring 11x23 and 12x23 inches while the X6 M's three-piece versions also have the same dimensions. Additionally the X6 M can be had with 22-inch wheels. Tyres are 315/25 ZR 23 high performance Michelins. The suspension systems can be lowered by 30mm.

The twin turbo engines were boosted from 408kW to 441kW at 6,000rpm and peak torque is 700Nm at 2,000rpm. Acceleration from 0 - 100km/h happens in 4.5 seconds, 0 - 200km/h in 16.2 seconds and top speed is beyond 300km/h.

Interior enhancements include a sports steering wheel, a G-POWER design speedometer, carbon fibre inserts and more.

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BRABUS GLK V12 to Debut at Dubai Motor Show



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Tuning icon BRABUS has laid claim to yet another fastest-in-the-world record with this GLK V12. Said to accelerate from 0 - 100km/h in 4.2 seconds and 0 - 200km/h in 12.8 seconds, the Mercedes-Benz GLK-based athlete was also tested for top speed at an Italian high-speed track two months ago. There it posted a scintillating 322.3 km/h, making it the fastest street-legal SUV in the world, as per the press release.

The work involved in such a feat is enormous. It includes fitting a massive 6.3-litre V12 bi-turbo engine with two large turbochargers, more efficient intercoolers, free-flow metal catalysts and a stainless steel exhaust system.

Maximum power is rated at 552kW at 5,500rpm and peak torque is 1,350Nm at 2,100rpm. BRABUS have however limited the latter to 1,100Nm. All of that goes to the rear wheels through a 5-speed automatic gearbox assisted by a limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent.

The exterior kit includes a carbon fibre spoiler lip, a front apron with large air dams, BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares that add 5cm to the width, underside LED lights, a BRABUS roof spoiler to reduce aerodynamic lift and a BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system.

Customers can choose from five different wheel designs sized 10Jx22 with Pirelli or Yokohama tyres of up to size 285/25 ZR 22.

A customised interior featuring things like wood trim or carbon fibre panels, full leather upholstery with optional Alcantara elements and a 7-inch LCD screen can be ordered.

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9ff GT9-R Details Finally Released



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After over a year of waiting, German tuner firm 9ff has finally released new details and updated photos of their impressive 9ff GT9-R. The 824 kW car will be limited to twenty units, each available worldwide.

Using a 4.0-liter six-cylinder Boxer engine, the car is capable of a 0-100 km/h time of 2.9 seconds. 300 km/h is reached in 15.8 seconds, en route to a 414 km/h top speed. If accurate, the 9ff GT9-R would become the fastest production car built, beating out the 412.28 km/h posted by the SSC Ultimate Aero TT, despite a pending second world record run by Keating TKR, which has already hit 418.6km/h.

Those who do not need quite that much power can take a 726-kW model built for the track, and just a hair slower than the fully tuned car. Still, there is a 552-kW version on offer that clears 300 km/h in 20 seconds.

The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or sequential gearbox. The five-speed Tiptronic is an option for those purchasing the 552-kW variant.

9ff claims no two vehicles will be identical, with a full slate of customization available on the street legal car. Multiple aerokits are being made available to guarantee this.

Max Auto Updates - 11/12/2009

New boss for Chevrolet



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GM has replaced the head of its mass-market Chevrolet brand as the management shake-up continues at the top US automaker.

Brent Dewar, a 31-year GM veteran, will retire in April 2010 and serve out the remainder of his career as an adviser to the newly appointed head of North American operations, Mark Reuss.

Dewar, who had introduced fuel-efficient GM models at last week's Los Angeles auto show, will be replaced immediately as head of Chevrolet by James Campbell, a 45-year-old executive who had previously headed Chevrolet's fleet sales operations.

The change comes at a time of tumult in GM's executive ranks as executives who devoted a full career to the Detroit-based automaker find themselves being shown the door.

Crucial appointment

The Chevrolet appointment is especially crucial because GM expects the brand to carry the burden of driving sales and market share as it sheds Hummer, Saab, Saturn and Pontiac.

Dewar, who previously headed GM sales in Europe, had been appointed to lead Chevrolet in July as the automaker emerged from bankruptcy after taking $50 billion in government aid.

Dewar had been appointed by former GM Chief Executive Fritz Henderson, who resigned last week in a split with the automaker's board led by Ed Whitacre.

The Obama administration dismissed Henderson's predecessor, Rick Wagoner, in March after he resisted calls to consider a restructuring in bankruptcy.

Henderson had vowed to shake up GM's insular and slow-moving decision-making process, but resigned after eight months on the job when the automaker's board decided to push for faster changes under new leadership.

GM Chairman Whitacre, who also became acting chief executive with Henderson's departure, said this week that the new team of GM executives would not have long to show results.

The automaker is on the verge of hiring a new chief financial officer, Whitacre said this week.

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Königseder Presents Audi A5 / S5 Styling Kit



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German tuners Königseder have designed a new set of styling modifications for the Audi A5 and S5. The car comes out looking more aggressive on the outside, but a bit more awkward on the inside.

A new front bumper for either A5 or S5 with better integrated fog lights is only part of the changes. The side sills look a bit too much towards the back for this car, but it does match up with the front extension well. At back, the new rear extension easily integrates the quad-pipes.

However, it is the wood floor mats that seem silly. The new mats really do not fit in with the car's interior.

Included are Brembo GT brakes, Felgen coil springs, and coilovers. The Königseder A5 and Königseder S5 is also available with Competec 20-inch wheels.

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Taxpayers cough up for Cayenne

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A deputy minister has bought herself a Porsche as her official vehicle, but Richard Baloyi, minister of public service and administration, insists no rules have been broken.

On Thursday it came to light that Hlengiwe Mkhize, deputy minister of correctional services, has bought herself a brand-new Porsche Cayenne as her official vehicle.

Taxpayers shelled out R760 000 for this luxury speedster, including accessories such as cruise control.

Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, the minister of correctional services, said in answer to a question from the DA in Parliament, that she has bought a Lexus LS460 worth R970 000.

Baloyi couldn't understand why the DA MPs continued to pose questions regarding expensive official vehicles, since the Cabinet has already "settled" the matter on various occasions.

'Used for state duties'

According to a statement, the minister is concerned about opposition MPs' stubbornness regarding the matter.

"Official vehicles don't belong to the ministers. They are and remain state property, and simply serve as a tool used by ministers to fulfil their duties," said Baloyi.

He continued along the same vein, stating that the ministerial manual entitles each minister to buy two vehicles - one for Cape Town and one for Pretoria. The price of the vehicle may not exceed 70% of the minister's annual compensation package.

This package is worth over R1.7m.

"MPs must understand that no minister has broken the rules," said Baloyi.

On Thursday Athol Trollip, the DA's parliamentary leader, said he's got bad news for Baloyi.

"I don't care if we annoy him. The questions won't stop. We'll carry on until each minister and his or her deputy have answered which vehicles they've bought."

Cheaper tools

According to the DA's calculations, the new government has spent over R320m on official vehicles and parties over the past seven months.

Trollip believes the rules justifying such extravagant expenses must be revised.

"Why can some ministers get along fine with cheaper 'tools', while others are satisfied with nothing less than the most expensive?"

On Thursday Dumisani Nkwamba, Baloyi's spokesperson, said the revision of the ministerial manual will be completed by next week. The concept document will be published early next year in order to allow for public commentary.

He denied that Baloyi is trying to undermine the MPs' responsibility to hold the executive authority accountable by expressing his annoyance over their questions.

"No, the minister respects the right of members of parliament to ask any question," said Nkwamba.

Max Auto Updates - 10/12/2009

Opel to Target Ford Ka with New Minicar

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Opel is ramming through development of a new city car meant to compete with the Ford Ka and the Volkswagen Up!. The company has also begun research work on a fully electric vehicle to be sold alongside the Opel Ampera plug-in hybrid.

But it is the city car that is the company's "top priority," according to company CEO Nick Reilly. "In my view, Opel needs a mini in today's market. That will be our top priority," Reilly said. He qualified his comments by pointing out that more customers are choosing smaller cars than in the past.

It is unclear if Reilly wants the small car to also be released as an EV, or if a completely new electric model will be developed.

These comments about Opel have been made before. Near-miss Opel purchaser Magna International was planning on releasing a new Opel city car in 2012. Magna had also considered distributing this as an all-electric.

Reilly is a relative newcomer to Opel, having been placed temporarily in the Opel hot seat on November 10, when GM decided not to sell the brand to Magna. He has worked for GM for almost 35 years, and is considered to be a possible successor to General Motors' interim CEO Ed Whitacre.

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Cadillac CTS-V Brute Force by Geiger Cars



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Despite its German location, Geiger Cars shows a great passion for tuning American cars. Instead of getting even more power and torque out of neighbouring brands like the Audi RS 6, the BMW M5, or the Mercedes-Benz E 63, Geiger chose to cross the Atlantic and create a monster out of a beast.

The Cadillac CTS-V already comes packed to the hilt with a supercharged 6.2-litre LSA V8 based on the LS9 V8 from the Corvette ZR1. In its raw form it makes 415kW at 5900rpm and 747Nm of torque. Not content, Geiger engineers upped the charge pressure releasing 455kW and 850Nm of torque, and called it Brute Force. Drive is still thrusted upon the 6-speed gearbox and the rear wheels, although fifth and sixth gears are shortened. Top speed is rated at over 330km/h.

Geiger gives assurances that the car is a good compromise between a long-distance cruiser and a sharp, agile cornering machine.

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Drunk drivers may lose licences

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KwaZulu-Natal's transport MEC is investigating whether it is possible to revoke drivers' licences of people caught driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding, his office said on Tuesday.

"Statistics show that we have an extraordinary crisis on our roads," MEC Willies Mchunu said.

"The major contributors to this crisis are speeding and drunk driving.

"To deal firmly with these twin evils, I have formed a technical committee to look into various pieces of legislation with a view to allowing the MEC for transport to revoke the drivers' licences of the serial law breakers who are responsible for wantonly maiming and murdering our people."

On December 1 and 2, the province's traffic police stopped 7 144 vehicles and charged 1 238 drivers with various offences, excluding speeding.

The total number of speed enforcements, including camera enforcements, netted 155 vehicles.

At least 30 vehicles were found to be unroadworthy and removed from the road.

"Sadly, 18 drivers were found to be driving under the influence of alcohol."

Eighty-nine people were driving without a valid driver's licence and 72 vehicles were on the road without valid licences.

50% of road accident victims above limit

The department said that according to Automobile Association research, an estimated 50% of people who die on South African roads have a blood alcohol concentration level above 0.05g per 100 millilitres, which is the maximum legal blood alcohol limit.

"This is rather a staggering figure, if you consider that some 900 000 road accidents were reported to the South African Police Service in 2008 alone.

"Of this, at least 150 000 people were injured - and about 60 000 required hospitalisation. Sadly, 14 500 of these accident victims died."

Mchunu said the revocation process would run parallel to the judicial one of prosecuting the driver for breaking the traffic rules.

"This revocation process will help to temporarily, if not permanently, remove the erratic drivers from our roads quickly while the wheel of justice grinds towards a conviction.

"We do not want to wait for the judicial process while the offender continues with his wayward behaviour on the road".

Depending on the committee's findings, they would begin revoking licences within days, or begin legislative processes to allow this.

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Vorsteiner VGT Aerodynamic Package for Carrera



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Tuner outfit Vorsteiner plan to release their V-GT aero kit for the Porsche Carrera MkII beginning next January. The package will be sold through the firm's dealer network, and will fit the C2, C2S, C4, C4S, Targa 4, Targa 4S, and the Cabriolet lineup, according to a press release.

In addition to the kit, the company is also offering a carbon fiber roof as a replacement to the stock sunroof. This change alone shaves 47 lbs. off the weight. 19- and 20-inch forged wheels will also be optionally available.

The kit itself comes with a new, add-on front spoiler meant to work in tandem with the stock bumper. This piece adds dual brake duct vents and a blacked-out grille, while helping to increase downforce at speed. In the rear, the V-GT three-fin diffuser is tacked on to the stock bumper cover. Both parts are built from carbon fiber.

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Novitec Rosso Refines the Ferrari California



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1080

Novitec Rosso has unveiled a new styling and performance package for the Ferrari California.

To give the car an aggressive appearance, Novitec Rosso adds an aerodynamic carbon fiber body kit which includes a front spoiler, attractive side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a trunk-mounted spoiler. The finishing touch is three-piece NF3 wheels, which measure 9Jx21 front and 11.5Jx22 rear, outfitted with Pirelli tires.

In terms of performance, the company installed a new engine management system (with custom mapping for injection and ignition) and a stainless-steel exhaust system "with metal catalysts and a flap actuator operated from the Manettino switch on the steering wheel." These updates allow the 4.3-liter V8 engine to produce 368 kW and 518 Nm of torque (an increase of 29 kW and 33 Nm). Other tweaks include sport springs (which lowers the ride height by 35 millimeters) and a hydraulic lift system that raises the front end 40 millimeters.

Inside, Novitec Rosso offers an extensive customization program which allows customers to create a bespoke interior that reflects their unique tastes.

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Volkswagen Completes 49.9% Porsche Stake



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1081

Volkswagen has announced they have bought a 49.9 percent stake in Porsche.

Valued at €3.9 billion ($5.8 billion USD), VW says the move is an important step towards fully integrating Porsche into Volkswagen AG. According to Volkswagen, "Porsche ideally complements the brand portfolio. The Stuttgart-based car maker will allow Volkswagen to further expand its position in the premium business, which offers particularly strong earnings. In turn, as an independent brand under the roof of the Volkswagen Group, Porsche will have the potential for significant additional growth."

As we have previously reported, Volkswagen wants Porsche to sell 150,000 vehicles a year by 2013. In order to do this, Porsche will likely add several new models including an entry-level roadster (to sit below the Boxster), a small crossover (possibly based on the Audi Q5), and a Panamera-based coupe.

If everything goes according to plan, the complete takeover of the Porsche will occur in 2011. When that happens, Volkswagen will create an "integrated automotive group" to house both companies (possibly under the Auto Union name).

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Stoning on Joburg highway

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1082

Motorists were being stoned by protesters near the Lenasia offramp on the N12 on Tuesday evening, Johannesburg metro police said.

"It's not safe for motorists to travel on the N12 right now," said Senior Superintendent Wayne Minnaar.

Protesters had been throwing stones and blocking the road with burning tyres for at least an hour. Motorists were advised to use the Golden Highway or the R554.

The cause of the protests was not yet known.

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Volkswagen Acquires 19.9% of Suzuki in Partnership

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1084

It has been revealed that Volkswagen and Suzuki Motor Corp. are in talks about a long-term co-operation agreement. Rumours of such a tie-up have been going around for some months. According to an official statement, VW will purchase 19.9 percent of Suzuki's issued shares. In turn Suzuki will use up to half of the amount received from VW to buy a stake in the Wolfsburg company.

Although the two automakers compete in some segments, they reckon they also compliment each other. VW has expertise in diesel technology and hybrid systems while Suzuki is quite strong in the fast-emerging India market. In addition to cars and motorcycles, Suzuki builds marine transportation solutions and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

If the authorities approve the transaction, the world's largest car manufacturing alliance would be created. It would surpass Toyota in terms of sales.

Consolidation seems to be the key industry word again. Recently French company PSA Peugeot Citroën announced it was entering into a cooperative agreement with Japan's Mitsubishi Motors. Italy's Fiat already calls the shots at Chrysler LLC while Nissan and Renault have been mates for about a decade now.

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Premium Lotus 7 Replica from South Africa



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1085

An updated replica of the classic Lotus 7 has hit the South African market, and may become available for export to Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Inspired by Lotus founder Colin Chapman's original design, twenty units of the Millennium 7 have already been completed, or are in assembly.

The car is the brainchild of aeronautical engineer Chris Carstens, who created the car to fulfill a friend's request for an uncommon sports car. The friend, Kobus van der Walt, has worked with Carstens on the project for the last six years. The duo have been advised by former Honda F1 chief mechanic Alastair Gibson.

Although the standard offering will be a 2.0-liter Ford Duratec engine with Ford Type 9 gearbox, Millennium 7 designers claim that a variety of engines fit without hassle. They claim that Ford and Toyota machines are the most common choices, but they have even kitted the car out with a turbocharged version of the 1.3-liter Renesis rotary engine seen on the Mazda RX-8. They also say that, although the car uses the BMW E30 3-Series rear differential and drive shafts, that many different gearboxes can be used.

With a four-cylinder Toyota engine, the vehicle's weight is estimated at 700kg. Weight is kept low thanks to the space frame, aluminum skin panels, and fiberglass body. Despite the low weight, the engineers were able to design a car with a bigger cockpit than the Lotus 7.

Disc brakes also come from the BMW 3er, but four-piston calipers may also be available. Also available is the unique windscreen, which is installed at a 55-degree rake.

The vehicle itself will be more readily available as a DIY kit, than a complete car. This kit would include "the frame, alloy double skin panelling, bodywork, front and rear suspension, fuel tank, brakes, brake tubing, pedal box and master cylinders, steering system and a basic wiring harness," according to a press release.

Without the differential, drive shafts, engine, gearbox, instruments, radiator, steering wheel, tires, or wheels, the Millennium 7 will cost R150,000.

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VW Golf VI Now Available with LED Rear Lights



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1086

Volkswagen Golf fans will probably be cheering over the latest offering from VW. Rear LED lights for the Golf VI are now optionally available, but come standard on the Golf GTD, Golf GTI and Golf R.

The company uses 48 light emitting diodes to make the four curve-and-dot shapes seen in the photos. These lights are covered in a smoked lens, giving a very recognizable look that should not blind tailing drivers.

Aside from looking good, they also light up 0.2 seconds faster than normal incandescent lights. VW believes this technology has a safety impact, claiming that "at a speed of 100 km/h it is equivalent to 5.6 meters braking distance." Of course, this depends on how hard you hit the brakes.

Volkswagen is also making available Bi-Xenon headlights. Optional for all Golf VI models, except Golf R which has them standard, the high intensity discharge lighting system comes equipped with dynamic cornering light, which adjusts the light beam angle in conjunction with the steering angle. They also adapt the light beam's peripheral range relative to the car's speed depending if it's city or highway driving. For example, in city traffic - up to 35 km/h - the lane boundary on the driver's side is illuminated much brighter.

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Aston Martin V8 Vantage MY10 Updates



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1087

Aston Martin is preparing to launch an updated V8 Vantage range for 2010. The beady-eyed spies at CAR UK caught a suspicious-looking blue model badged as a V8 but dressed in part like the V12 running around near the company's Gaydon, Warwickshire headquarters.

It turns out it was a 2010 MY test unit. Changes made include a magnum silver bonnet, new optional 10-spoke forged 19-inch alloy wheels with diamond turned and silver finish, and clear rear lights. The interior can be specified with new optional lightweight seats with kevlar and carbon fibre construction. Weight savings from these amount to 17kg. There is also an optional 1,000W B&O hi-fi system to suit every musical taste.

Through transmission ratio alterations and software remapping the 2010 V8 Vantage is said to emit an average of 315g/km in C02 gases, down from 328g/km. With the Sportshift gearbox that figure drops even further to 300g/km.

Orders are being accepted right now, with first deliveries only expected early next year.

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Road projects hit by scandal

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1088

The North West government said on Wednesday it has been hit by a multi-million rand scandal related to road projects that may have been improperly and fraudulently awarded.

"I can confirm that a number of contracts issued by the department for several road projects in the province may have been improperly and fraudulently awarded," transport MEC Mahlakeng Mahlakeng said.

It is estimated that more than R1.5bn allocated for road capital projects over the next three years - the medium term expenditure framework - had already been committed.

Within three months, of the current financial year - 2009/10 - the roads directorate had already spent 100% of its capital project budget.

Their budget allocation for the current financial year was R525m.

Audit

This followed an audit by PriceWaterhouseCoopers and a commitment by the government to get the money back.

Further details would be released once the government had cleared the legal implications of doing so.

He said that millions of rands worth of contracts were issued by the department "without following procedure as stipulated by Public Finance Management Act (PMFA)".

The government would give the report to the police's Hawks and the Asset Forfeiture Unit to investigate.

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More toll roads planned

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1089

There is not enough money available to fix roads, so more toll gates will probably have to be built on national roads, Transport Minister Sbu Ndebele said in a report on Thursday.

More than 4 100 km of roads - or 32% of the national road network - are in such a bad state that they only have a "structural life span" of five years left.

It would cost more than R35 billion to fix these roads before 2014, Ndebele said in Parliament, according to Beeld newspaper.

But his department has only R16.8 billion available to do this.

"The shortfall could be made up by building toll gates on the national road network," said Ndebele.

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Aston Rapide's SA price

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1090

Aston Martin's breathtaking take on the super sedan - Rapide - is being primed for an early-2010 launch in SA. We have prices.

Pricing for Rapide will start from R2 809 000 and the price includes registration and dealer delivery costs.

Gaydon's first production four-door sports car will feature a spectacular standard specification list including a bespoke Bang & Olufsen Beosound audio system, adaptive braking system and heated memory seats.

In another break from tradition, this is also the first Aston that will not be built at the company's traditional home. Rather, Rapide will be hand-built by specialist carmaker Magna Steyr at its Graz plant in Austria.

It is expected that around 2 000 Rapide units (each requiring about 220 hours to build) will roll off the Graz line its first year of production.

Light me up Scotty!

Finally got the LED C10W bulb all the way from Hong Kong.

Fitted it as soon as I could... and well... let the picture speak for it self... IT'S BRIGHT! Now I will need to replace the Cool Blu W5W's with LED's as they look yellow compared to this!

Max Auto Updates - 07/12/2009

GMSA Welcomes A New President

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1072

GMSA’s new president and MD, Edgar Lourencon, was introduced to media, and Africa’s Big Five, earlier this week at the recently opened 5-Star Gondwana Game Reserve near Mosselbay in the Western Cape. Lourencon, whose new post officially began on 1 November, takes over the reigns from Steve Koch who retired this year after 40 years of service with General Motors.

Lourencon has been with the company for over 32 years and has his roots in engineering. As such, the new MD spent the first 20 years involved in the company’s technical areas of manufacturing, engineering and quality control. Prior to arriving in South Africa, Lourencon was director of sales in Brazil before running GM’s operations in Chile, Peru and Bolivia. Most recently his portfolio was increased to include the Uruguay and Paraguay regions.

Despite the setbacks faced by the manufacturer in 2009, Lourencon remains confident for GM’s future in world markets. On a local level, the new MD recognises Africa as a mature and challenging market but is excited about the future both here in SA and for the rest of the continent. Lourencon stated that he’s happy with GMSA’s current operations and will be fine-tuning rather than overhauling any aspects within the organisation. His focus will be on his organisation’s brand, customers and productivity, with emphasis on a sustainable operation through local sales complimented by exports, as opposed to a heavy reliance on the export market.

Lourencon will take time in December to visit GM’s points of presence in Africa, including Egypt, Kenya, Tunisia and Nigeria.

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2010 Nissan Qashqai Facelift Revealed



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1073

The UK is to receive a facelifted Nissan Qashqai in spring 2010. Changes have been effected not just outside and inside, but also beneath the skin.

Alterations made to the exterior include a new front bumper, a revised front grille, an all-new bonnet, and upgraded headlights. The front end shares its design elements with the Qashqai+2. Two new colours have been added; Magnetic Red and Mineral Grey. The rear lights are largely the same but now feature a more transparent lens look. Brake and taillights use LED technology. An additional two alloy wheel styles measuring 16-inch and 17-inch were added. The suspension has been further tuned for better ride quality and handling.

Nissan redesigned the main interior dials by giving them added clarity. The white LCD screen is geared to show lots of information such as time, cruise control, average fuel consumption and the speed limiter. Storage spaces were increased to include a new cubby hole at the base of the central cluster. Two-wheel drive models even have space for plastic cards where AWD models would have the ALL MODE selector.

Some unspecified weight reductions were implemented as well as aerodynamic improvements that help the 1.5 dCi model drive down its C02 emissions from 137 to 129g/km.

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Police clamp down in Eastern Cape

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1074

A total of 169 drunken drivers were arrested in the Eastern Cape over the weekend, the provincial department of transport said.

Spokesman Tshepo Machaea said 147 were arrested between Friday and Saturday in the East London and Mdantsane areas. A further 17 were arrested in Uitenhage and five in Aliwal North.

The police's task team suspended 17 unroadworthy buses and 10 mini buses from operation. A further 120 fines were issued for various offences and 12 warrants of arrests were executed.

Two people found driving buses suspended from use were arrested in Mount Frere.

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Arrive Alive kicks off

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1075

Disposable breathalyzers will be on sale for drivers during the holiday, Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele said on Sunday.

"We have partnered with the private sector to ensure that you are able to test your own alcohol levels before driving through purchasing a disposable alcohol breathalyzer," said Ndebele at the launch of Arrive Alive's campaign for the holiday season in Orange Farm, Gauteng.

He said the breathalyzers would be on sale at Engen Garages.

Ndebele said he hoped to have the disposable breathalyzers available at additional outlets in the near future.

Traffic officials would stop and check no less than one million vehicles across the country throughout December and January.

Roadblocks and roadside checkpoints would be set up and patrols and speed monitoring organised.

"There will be zero tolerance for all traffic offences."

Ndebele said the traffic officials would be looking to stamp out pedestrian jaywalking, especially if the person had been drinking or was walking on a freeway.

Drivers that were speeding, drinking, overtaking in unsafe situations, using cellphones, not using safety belts or ignoring red lights would be caught.

The roadworthiness of vehicles especially taxis and buses, as well as vehicles being overloaded with goods or passengers would be checked.

"We will focus on mass movement of vehicles along main arterial routes to different provinces after industries close, as well as for holiday shopping."

Eyelids have arrived!

Yip, the eyelids from Lumm Tuning in Germany have finally arrived... now to get them fitted next month.

Max Auto Updates - 04/12/2009

Wimmer RS Golf VI GTI



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1070

German-based tuner Wimmer RS presents this stupendous kit for the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Although not a class-leader when it comes to maximum power, the stock GTI nevertheless impresses with how it delivers its 155kW and handles itself on the road.

Not entirely satisfied, Wimmer RS went about securing a massive 284kW and torque of 455Nm from the turbo unit. They did it by installing an optimised turbo charger with manifold, and using a sports catalytic converter. The ECU, fuel pump, piston rods, intercooler and cat-back exhaust system were also modified. The attainable maximum speed is now 267km/h, up from 240km/h.

A choice of 18-inch, 19-inch and 20-inch rims can be fitted. A special set of 8x20 wheels with Dunlop Sport Maxx GT 235/30 ZR 20 high performance tyres is available as the range-topper.

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PSA, Mitsubishi seek closer ties?

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1071

French carmaker PSA Peugeot Citroen could buy a large stake in Japanese peer Mitsubishi Motors Corp as part of a plan to deepen ties to ride out the industry's worst ever slump.

The companies said on Thursday they were in talks to strengthen an existing relationship, which would create a leader in electric vehicles, with Mitsubishi, saying a capital tie-up was possible.

A spokesman for Peugeot, ranked eighth in the world by 2008 sales volume, would not comment on how long talks could last.

Peugeot will face increased competitive pressure from domestic rival Renault SA which is looking to beef up its synergies with 10-year equity partner Nissan Motor.

That Franco-Japanese alliance is looking to lead the industry in the unproven electric car segment, where Mitsubishi Motors is among the only players to have such a car on sale.

Peugeot's interest in Mitsubishi Motors, ranked seventh of Japan's eight carmakers by January-October production, is in line with the recent push by new chief executive Philippe Varin to create a more global car company.

More alliances

Varin, who took on the role in June, has said this could be achieved by various means, including alliances with carmakers.

Mitsubishi Motors shares closed 13.4% higher after the Nikkei business daily reported Peugeot, Europe's second-biggest carmaker, may take a 30-50% stake for up to 300 billion yen ($3.4 billion).

"In the car sector there is overcapacity in the the world and in case of overcapacity there could be consoldation" French Finance and Economy Minister Christine Lagarde told LCI television. "That Peugeot and Mitsubishi have been talking to each other for a while is a good thing," she said.

The Nikkei newspaper said top management at Mitsubishi were ready to accept a majority acquisition of the company by Peugeot if conditions were right.

CM-CIC analyst Guillaume Angue said in a note the alliance would make sense from an industrial viewpoint and it would allow Peugeot to solve its problems of size, but it would come a bit early in the business cycle.

Mitsubishi remained expensive with an enterprise value to sales ratio of 0.64 against 0.2 at Peugeot, he said.

Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas said in a note there were "no significant areas of near-term savings," adding "cultural/integration risks are extremely high", while the negotiation process, especially regarding financing, could take up to several months.

"Ideal partner"

"For Mitsubishi Motors, Peugeot would be the ideal partner," said Okasan Securities auto analyst Yasuaki Iwamoto.

"It would be tough for Mitsubishi to shoulder R&D costs for environmental technologies on its own and, if you look at the global auto industry, there is a limited pool of partners to choose from."

Both Peugeot and Mitsubishi have so far attempted to compete with bigger rivals through non-equity tie-ups, even as others sought deeper alliances to weather the slump brought on by the global downturn.

Among such moves, Italian Fiat has scooped up Chrysler, while General Motors, the other US auto giant that filed for bankruptcy this year, is fielding interest for several of its brands.

Peugeot itself has operational ties with carmakers ranging from Toyota Motor Corp to BMW.

Peugeot and Mitsubishi have three ongoing projects: a joint venture factory in Russia, an original equipment manufacturing deal in sport utility vehicles, and, most recently, a plan for Mitsubishi to supply i-MiEV electric cars under French brands.

For Mitsubishi Motors, the deeper talks with Peugeot mark a reversal of its attempt to stick it out on its own with the backing of the powerful Mitsubishi group, since dissolving its equity ties with the former DaimlerChrysler group in 2005.

The Nikkei said the two companies were in the final stages of negotiations, with Peugeot seeking a stake of more than 50% in Mitsubishi through the placement of new shares.

Mitsubishi may also potentially buy an interest in Peugeot, the paper said.

Max Auto Updates - 03/12/2009

Limited C63 set to storm SA

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1066

Mercedes-Benz SA will unleash a number of C63 AMG Edition 63 models in the country from January 2010.

Adding zing to the already-intoxicating standard C63, the limited Edition 63 model has an exterior that is similar to that of the garden-variety AMG, yet it gains bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels and a choice of three special paint finishes.

Its cabin is made more appealing with black designo leather for the armrest on the centre console, the upper dash and door trim. Mercedes-Benz's media interface, which allows for the connection of mobile audio devices such as iPods or USBs, is also standard on the special edition.

Dynamically, the Edition 63 comes standard with the AMG driver's package that includes an upgraded braking system, improved engine cooling and a limiter that - invitingly - only kicks in at 280 km/h.

The range-topping C-Class makes use of the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 engine common to AMG products. It produces 336 kW and 600 Nm of torque and shoves the C63 from 0 - 100 km/h in a mere 4.5 seconds.

But how would you identify this model, you ask? Well, look out for the "one of 63" markings in the outline of the map of South Africa on the gearshift lever… Neat.

The C63 AMG Limited Edition, when it arrives in January 2010, will cost R930 000 and come standard with the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance plan (120 000 km or 6 years), together with a two-year warranty.

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Alfa Romeo Giulietta Revealed



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1067

Alfa Romeo announces that it will showcase the brand new Alfa Romeo Giulietta at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. Alfa arrived at the Giulietta name with some difficulty. The first known name was the 148 followed by Milano. After complaints from Milan based Alfa employees upon the company moving to Turin, the 147 replacement finally settled on Giulietta. The name goes back to the 1950s where it represented high levels of style, performance and comfort at reasonable prices. In the front three-quarter photo the Milano name is edited out from the license plate. (Edit: photo has been updated with newer version showing Giulietta name)

The new car, targeted to the almightly VW Golf, is a coupe-shaped sports hatch featuring the latest in engineering, technology and safety systems that Alfa can offer. It is 4.35 metres long, 1.46m high, 1.8m wide and has a wheelbase of 2.63m. Alfa hopes the Giulietta will be their best selling Alfa to date.

Four engines, all of them turbocharged, will be available at launch. The 1.4TB is the baby with 88kW, followed by the 1.4TB MultiAir making 125kW. The other two are diesel-powered. One is a 1.6 JTDM producing 77kW while the more powerful 2.0 JTDM is good for 125kW. An exclusive 173kW petrol Quadrifoglio Verde model will be sold at a later stage.

Alfa has fitted the car with its DNA (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) system which gives the driver three varying options for different driving situations. It has a Q2 electronic differential and a stability control system (VDC).

Style and design have always been Alfa Romeo's strong points and the Giulietta seems to keep that perception alive. The front end has what they call a "trilobe shape" with the Alfa grille set into the front bumper and suspended between the two air intakes. LED daytime running lights are included for both front and rear lights clusters. Similar to the old 156 sedan, the rear door handles are concealed as a matter of flair thus enhancing its coupe-like exterior.

The interior features rocker controls like the 8C Competizione as well as aluminium accents on the dashboard. Alfa says it paid a great deal of attention to detail and used high quality materials.

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2011 Ford Fiesta Officially Revealed



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1068

Hours before it will be debuted to the public, Ford has sent out the official word on the North American version of the 2011 Ford Fiesta. The Fiesta is already the highest volume sales Ford in Europe, something Ford will be looking to replicate in the US and Canada.

NA purchasers will not be able to choose from six different low-powered engine options, like European customers can. Instead, the vehicle comes with a 1.6-liter, four cylinder DOHC engine that generates 88kW and up to 148Nm of torque. With this engine, the automaker anticipates a fuel economy rating of 7.1l/100km on the highway.

Although this is better than the Ford Focus' 8.1l/100km estimate, the power available to the Fiesta driver is substantially lower.

A five-speed manual transmission will come standard, but the company will offer their dual dry-clutch six-speed automatic transmission as an option. The American automaker claims this transmission will rival the manual gearbox in fuel conservation.

Yesterday, we told you about the NA vehicle's exterior difference when compared to the Euro version. A few changes were also made inside. It appears the colored door inserts and matching dashboard cover are gone, with dull grey used in its place. Swapping the fake-looking brushed aluminum-toned door handles for black does look better against the new inserts. The only apparent change to the center console is the addition of a passenger airbag indicator placed above the HVAC controls. Although Ford is still using bucket seats, the company looks to have eliminated bi-color seating choices.

Despite these changes, Ford did not significantly redesign this car for the North American market. As the company searches for a global hit, only time will tell if the 2011 Ford Fiesta will be an American success.

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Spyker makes bid for Saab



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=1069

With the sudden resignation of GM CEO Fritz Henderson, the Board of Directors has begun accepting new bids for Saab. Led by interim CEO Ed Whitacre, the company is believed to be weighing offers from as many as four different investment groups.

One such offer was submitted yesterday by Dutch supercar manufacturer Spyker Cars, and its Russian parent, Converse Bank. The bid is for the entire Saab brand, including the 9-4X crossover, which Spyker management says is, "extremely viable," according to Automotive News.

If successful, Spyker may be able to use some of Saab's technology on the Spyker D12 Peking-to-Paris crossover, which is said to still be under development.

In addition to accepting Henderson's resignation at their meeting, members of GM's board were slated to discuss the Spyker bid, as well as offers from Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co., Merbanco Inc., and Renco Group Inc. BAIH is said to have only been interested in the 9-3 and 9-5 models. One can only suspect that Koenigsegg may be coaxed back into the picture with the management change at GM.

Saab, fully owned by GM since 2000, has not delivered a profit in seven years. They are also expected to post a loss for 2009.