Max Auto Updates - 22/10/2009

MEC launches 'war on potholes'

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North West MEC for Transport Mahlakeng Mahlakeng will launch a new "war on potholes" programme, her department said on Tuesday.

Spokesperson Matshube Mfoloe said the programme will be launched in Ngaka Modiri Molema District (Mafikeng) on Thursday.

"The programme seeks to unleash available, though limited, resources within the department to tackle head-on the state of decay on some of the provincial roads," said Mfoloe in a statement.

"We must take the lead [on this matter]," said Mahlakeng in the statement.

"Talking about potholes and not doing anything to correct the situation, will never make potholes disappear from our roads."

Pothole rapid response team

Mfoloe said two of four teams with custom-made Jetpatcher trucks from the province's pothole rapid response, road marking and maintenance units would be dispatched to patch a 16km stretch of road between Makauspan and Vryhof.

The road also services the rural communities of Mantsa and Ditshilo and is a key route for communities to access the Gelukspan hospital.

Mfoloe said the programme would later be rolled out to three other districts where problem roads had been identified.

Mahlakeng said while there were serious budget pressures on several projects, a total neglect of regular maintenance could not be allowed.

"We have to arrest the situation and begin to get our hands dirty,'' Mahlakeng said.

Mahlakeng encouraged road users to report potholes to the offices of the department in the district and sub-district offices.

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Updated Nissan GT-R Debuts in Tokyo

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Nissan has unveiled the updated 2010 GT-R lineup at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Set to go on sale early next year, the GT-R features a new CARWINGS HDD-based navigation system and the rear diffuser from GT-R SpecV.

In terms of performance, Nissan has recalibrated the suspension settings "to offer enhanced, premium quality ride comfort, while still providing the driver with a feeling of direct contact with the road surface." To do this, the company stiffened the rear suspension radius rod bushings as well as the front shock absorbers and springs.

The range-topping GT-R SpecV also receives revised rear shock absorber settings as well as new high performance tires from Dunlop (the previous Bridgestone tires will be available as an option).

Finally, "both the Nissan GT-R and GT-R SpecV achieve improved low- and mid-range engine response, thanks to newly adopted hexagonal meshed catalyst cells that reduce ventilation/airflow resistance."

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Road Accident Fund 'abused'

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The Road Accident Fund (RAF) is being abused leaving road accident victims in the lurch, said RoadCover which assists victims of road accidents claim compensation from the fund.

CEO Eugene Beck said on Wednesday many accident victims received only a fraction of the amount paid out by the RAF.

The interests of motor accident victims and the taxpayers who ultimately fund the RAF are not always best protected by attorneys, he said in a statement.

"Most lawyers representing claimants from the RAF enter into risk sharing agreements (or contingency fee arrangements) with the knowledge that they will receive a percentage of the final settlement.

"Inevitably, some of these lawyers try to push for the highest possible payout, which forces the RAF to defend these claims in court, thereby clogging up the system and leading to lengthy delays in claim settlements."

According to Beck, as the RAF was funded by a levy imposed on the price of fuel, it was taxpayers who ultimately bore the cost of the over-inflated claims.

"In addition, because of the lengthy court process, the legal fees usually end up consuming a large portion of the final claim paid to the victims, who are then left with less than they would have received had the claim been settled out of court for a more equitable amount."

Beck said the criticism that the fund did not have adequate resources was also somewhat unfair.

"If we could eliminate all of the spurious claims against the RAF, then I believe that the fund would be capable of protecting seriously injured victims with its current resources."

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Chrysler 'never had a chance'

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The Obama administration was deeply divided over whether to fund Chrysler's restructuring in bankruptcy and whether the automaker could survive to repay the investment, according to a former senior official.

Steve Rattner, the investment banker who headed the Obama administration's autos task force until July, also said he had been shocked by the "stunningly poor management" at both Chrysler and its larger rival General Motors.

"Everyone knew Detroit's reputation for insular, slow-moving cultures. Even by that low standard, I was shocked by the stunningly poor management that we found, particularly at GM, where we encountered, among other things, perhaps the weakest finance operation any of us had ever seen in a major company," Rattner said in an account of of his stint in the administration, published by Fortune Magazine on Wednesday.

"Years of mismanagement"

Rattner said the decision to offer Chrysler $12 billion in emergency financing to restructure under the management control of Fiat SpA had been "a close call," adding that the administration was ultimately swayed by the view that allowing the automaker to liquidate would cost 300 000 jobs.

"The group was torn," Rattner said, noting that at one point key members of the autos task force had been split 4-to-4 on whether to offer Chrysler financing.

Rattner said when pressed by White House economic adviser Larry Summers, he had estimated the odds of Chrysler surviving for two years at 51%.

He said the automaker under former owner Cerberus Capital Management "never had a chance" because of its high debt and "years of mismanagement."

Bolster GM's chances of survival

White House economic aide Austan Goolsbee, meanwhile, had "led the charge against Chrysler," arguing that allowing the automaker to fail could bolster GM's chances of success.

The revelations from Rattner on the closed-door deliberations on the autos bailouts come at a time when GM is struggling to win back American consumers and Fiat chief executive Sergio Marchionne is readying a five-year turnaround plan for Chrysler.

Rattner forced the resignation of former GM Chief Executive Rick Wagoner and provided a first-hand account of his March ouster in his article.

Rattner said he found Wagoner "to be likable, dedicated and generally knowledgeable," but he also said the former GM CEO had "set a tone of friendly arrogance that seemed to permeate the organization."

"It seemed completely obvious to us that any management team that had burned through $21 billion of cash in a year and another $13 billion in the first quarter of 2009 could not be allowed to continue," he said.

Rattner said the automaker's current chief executive, Fritz Henderson, had been "enthusiastic" about his promotion and had asked not to be tagged as an "interim" choice.

No comment

Wagoner, he said, also supported the selection of Henderson as his successor and questioned at one point whether Rattner also intended to fire United Auto Workers president Ron Gettelfinger, a political ally of the Obama administration.

Rattner said Wagoner had also cautioned him against hiring an outsider at GM to replace him, citing the example of Ford Motor Co.

"'Alan Mulally called me with questions every day for two weeks after he got to Ford,'" Rattner quoted Wagoner as saying.

Wagoner, who retired in August with a package worth $8.6 million, has not commented on the meeting with Rattner or his ouster.

Max Auto Updates - 21/10/2009

Fifth Gear hits the Chopping Block?



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It appears that one of the world's most popular automotive TV shows has been axed, as the Daily Mail is reporting. Channel 5 has killed off Fifth Gear.

While details are limited, the newspaper says the decision was unrelated to recent budget cuts. This likely means the show failed to attract enough advertising revenue to warrant further taping. In the last series, Fifth Gear failed to garner one million viewers.

However, Fifth Gear cast member Jonny Smith has stated on his Twitter page, "Thanks to everyone for your compliments and words of encouragement. Remember, FG isn't OFFICIALLY finished. Don't (ever?) believe The Mail."

He continued, "To answer all the tweets about Fifth Gear ending - I don't know who the Daily Mail talked to, but nothing is official. TV is a fickle world."

Originally aired in 2002, Fifth Gear was soon eclipsed by the BBC's highly successful reincarnation of Top Gear.

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Volkswagen wants 49.9% Porsche stake



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An initial agreement between Porsche and Volkswagen allowed for the latter to buy a 42% stake in the former. Now it seems VW's fortunes have improved somewhat and it will instead go for a 49.9% interest. This gives it a much better position should it decide to acquire a full 100% in the sports car maker after the proposed merger of 2011. The transaction is worth €3.9 billion (US$5.8 billion).

Currently the two are cooperating in building certain vehicles. For instance the Cayenne and Touareg SUVs come off the same factory line while Porsche uses VW Group engines like the 3.6-litre V6. VW is also supplying bodies for both the Panamera and Cayenne. Even more synergies will be unlocked as executives try to push greater sales volumes for the once-niche brand. VW CEO Martin Winterkorn says Porsche could sell as many as 150,000 vehicles annually by 2013, effectively doubling its 2008 volumes.

Volkswagen is already Europe's biggest carmaker and is currently nipping at GM's heels for the title of world's second largest. The merger or full buyout will see it controlling potentially-competing prestige brands like Lamborghini, Bentley, Bugatti and of course Porsche.

Max Auto Updates - 20/10/2009

NOVITEC ROSSO Edizione 747



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Novitec Rosso's Edizione 747 is a farewell tribute to the outgoing Ferrari 430 Scuderia. For the specialist Ferrari tuner, this project could not have been particularly taxing on its engineering prowess.

The V8 engine has been boosted by the arrival of a bi-compressor which takes power up from the standard 375kW up to a whopping 549kW, hence the name. Torque has also been increased to a towering 738Nm at 6,300rpm. The stats are shocking: 0 - 100km/h sprint takes less than 3.4 seconds, 0 - 200km/h goes by in 9.4 seconds and the 0 - 300km/h takes place in 22.9 seconds. Top velocity is stated at 351km/h.

The engine is fitted with an intercooling system that features its own dedicated water circuit and is given a maximum boost pressure figure of 0.53 bar.

Novitec Rosso tried out a two-tone special matte yellow and grey paintjob (which can be matched to the interior on request) then installed black taillights, side markers and indicators. The wheels are size 8.5Jx20 at the front and 12Jx20 at the back. Matching Michelin Pilot Cup sport tyres measure 245/30 ZR 20 and 315/25 ZR 20 respectively. The front suspension can be lifted by 40mm for easy parking access.

The interior features a flat-bottomed leather and carbon fibre steering wheel and carbon fibre shift paddles.

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Lotus Exige Scura Special Edition Revealed



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With the brand now firmly in Malaysian hands, Lotus is planning on using the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show to reveal its latest creation, the Exige Scura. Scura is Italian for "dark" and it's clear to see why. The matt black finish with high gloss ‘Phantom Black' triple stripes give it a kind of stealth bomber character. Incidentally the Japanese model will be referred to as the Exige Stealth. Only 35 copies will be sold internationally.

"The Exige Scura is a stunning vehicle which offers an adrenaline fuelled experience and is a real head-turner," Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars said. "Our Exige customers choose Lotus because we deliver thrilling performance and dynamic design and this special edition fits the bill on both counts."

The exterior features lightweight carbon fibre components such as a front splitter, oil cooler inlet vanes, side air scoops and a rear spoiler. The interior is also peppered in this material as far as the sports seats and the centre console.

Providing thrust is a supercharged 1.8-litre engine with VVTL-i making 191kW and 236Nm developed at 6,000rpm. Pushing torque to the rear is a 6-speed manual gearbox. Lotus has used the Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control systems originally developed for the Exige GT3 racing programme. The 0 - 100km/h sprint time is 4.1 seconds and top speed is 245km/h. The Exige Scura returns a combined fuel consumption figure of 8.5 litres per 100km on the EU cycle while emitting 199 g/km of C02 gases.

Lotus begins taking orders from 21 October for Europe, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Indonesia and Malaysia.

Max Auto Updates - 19/10/2009

No relief for car sector

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Further interest rate cuts are unlikely to make a big difference to the fortunes of South Africa's ailing car sector, said an economist. This followed more calls from automotive industry representatives for a monetary policy stimulus.

"We have the hope and expectation that the Reserve Bank will implement a further rate cut," said Jeff Osborne, CEO of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, after the release of motor trade sale numbers for August from Statistics SA on Thursday.

Sales for the three months to August 2009 fell 11.6% compared to the same period last year, which reaffirmed trends showing that the country's demand for cars had stabilised at low levels.

Industry representatives agree that a meaningful recovery in demand for new cars, which took a nosedive in late 2008, will take place in the first half of 2010. However, the industry insists that more interest rate easing is needed at this point.

Citi SA chief economist Jean-Francois Mercier said that the 50 basis-point cut, which may or may not happen later this year, is fairly insignificant in the greater scheme of things.

"The gradual 500 basis points decline we have had since December last year is enough. A further two basis points decrease may make a difference for them [motor industry], but that would have a destabilising effect on our economy," said Mercier.

'It will take years'

He added it would take a few years for the automotive market to return to levels seen in 2006.

The industry sold a record of 481 558 new passenger vehicles in 2006, according to the National Automotive Association of South Africa (Naamsa). The projected sales number of new passenger vehicles for 2009 is 275 000 units.

Mercier said the economy would need to experience structural recovery and real growth for the industry to bounce back to its 2006 high.

Lower interest rates may not be sufficient to pull the market out of the dumps.

Interest rates are now effectively at the same low levels they were in 2006. However, the structural characteristics of the economy have changed.

The National Credit Act was implemented in June 2007, which forced retail banks to apply stricter lending criteria. "Further inflation is a much bigger concern now than what it was back then. Households also have much higher levels of debt," said Mercier.

An example of structural change in the economy would involve real economic growth leading to urbanisation, which would in turn increase demand for cars.

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Mégane Renaultsport 250 specs revealed



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Renault tested the new Mégane Renaultsport 250 through distances covering over 305,775km, making sure everything worked as well in the end as it did in the beginning. Rest assured they say, that the hot hatch will not disappoint.

Speaking of hot, under the belly lies a Euo5-compliant 16V 2.0-litre petrol turbo with a maximum power figure of 184kW at 5,500rpm and maximum torque of 340Nm delivered at 3,000rpm. Eighty percent of the torque is available from 1,900rpm. The increases were achieved through changes to the turbocharger, continuously variable intake valve timing and revised fuel-injection mapping.

Running the powertrain is a 6-speed manual gearbox with taller ratios and increased precision. Renault says as a result the car will sprint from 0-100km/h time of 6.1 seconds. Average C02 emissions are 195g/km while the combined fuel consumption figure is 8.4 l/100km.

Renault has installed technologies such as PowerStart which is designed to optimise standing start performance. A Cup Suspension Pack can be had and it includes stiffer springs, a limited slip differential, Brembo brake callipers, 18-inch alloys and 235/40 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tyres.

Other equipment includes front parking sensors, ESP, the Renaultsport Monitor telemetry system, LED daytime running lights and bi-xenon headlights. The exterior kit includes gloss black door mirrors, a frontal F1-style blade on the lower bumper and a gloss black rear diffuser. A total of seven exterior colours are available.

The interior is packed with gadgets such as an RDS radio system, a 6 CD changer, Bluetooth connectivity and a Carminat TomTom satellite navigation system.

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MTM Pumps 199kW from Volskwagen Golf VI GTI



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German tuners Motoren Technik Mayer is releasing a new upgrade package for Volkswagen Golf GTI mk. VI owners. The new release is meant to compete with the upcoming Golf R by adding power.

The MTM package includes an extra air filter, and updated ECU tuning to boost the engine to 199kW and up to 390 Nm of torque. This boosts top speed to an electronically-limited 265 km/h. Sans limiter, the speculation is that this car could clear 300 km/h.

Other enhancements include light alloy MTM Bimoto wheels with Continental XL Sportcont tires. The wheels are matte black, which matches the few black and dark grey pieces on the car. Eight-piston caliper brakes and 380 mm discs come from Brembo.

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Audi RS6 upgraded by MFK Autosport



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German tuner MFK Autosport has a tuning package for the Audi RS6 that includes both aerodynamic and engine upgrades.

For under the hood, the Bad Kreuznach-based tuner provides for a power boost up to 382kW through a little tinkering of the software in the engine management system.

The increased power then requires the proper amount of road grip, MFK has fitted the RS6 with a set of 20-inch wheels from Schmidt Revolution's CC-Line in the color of Satin Black. The rims come wrapped in Dunlop tires sized 285/25-20 - a wide-track to keep the RS6 glued to the pavement.

Other touches are small, subtle, such as the air intakes, as well as the new sport exhaust system with a Y-branch pipe and 100 cells.

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Volkswagen Golf R & Scirocco R Launched



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VW put two new models on the market today. The Volkswagen Golf R and the Volkswagen Scirocco R go on sale in Germany.

Each R model uses a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter, turbocharged TSI engine. The Golf R will receive about 195kW and up to 350 Nm of torque, while the Scirocco R receives about 191kW. Both vehicles are electronically limited to 250 km/h. Fuel economy has been significantly improved on both models, with the Golf using about 21 percent less fuel.

Design touches on the Golf include LED front and rear lights, which are not included in the new R-Line exterior packages available for the base models. The R-Line includes 17-inch alloys, new bumpers, updated rear spoiler, and a glossy grille. Sport seats, pedals, and steering wheel are also a part of the package.

The two vehicles are now available at VW dealerships.

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The Stig gets Arrested!!!



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Top Gear is a production of the illustrious BBC but can you really trust their news reporting?

The British broadcaster's most popular show has reported that The Stig has been arrested.

Yes, the mystery race driver who is the standard by which Top Gear notches lap times for the models it tests has had a run-in with the Irish police, known as the Garda.

According to the Top Gear story, eyewitnesses reported seeing the Stig being „politely" removed from his vehicle and taken into police custody. An onlookers is quoted as saying: "I didn't see what happened exactly but it was probably really bad. Maybe he punched a swan or tried to push one of the Hairy Bikers into the river. Again."

Though various reports as to his true identity have emerged in the past, most fans of the show would probably like the Stig to simply stay the Stig - and definitely not see him unmasked and in prison.

And with a lead like this:

"the Stig has been SENSATIONALLY ARRESTED by a FRIENDLY POLICEMAN following an ALLEGED INCIDENT of some kind."

...there is quite likely some serious tongue-in-cheek action going on here. It even sounds like Jeremy Clarkson's own voice.

Max Auto Updates - 16/10/2009

Taxi warlords prey on mourners

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Families transporting bodies from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape for burial have now become the target of taxi bosses in Cape Town.

Hearses are intercepted and not released until a ransom of up to R7 500 is paid.

Members of the Western Cape provincial legislature were horrified on Wednesday to hear how bodies are taken, and ransoms are then claimed from grieving families.

Apparently taxis intercept the hearses and prevent them from driving off until they hand over money.

MMPs from several political parties expressed their shock and disbelief about this.

Positioned at Hugenot Tunnel

Western Cape Transport and Public Works MEC Robin Carlisle said an investigation into this phenomenon was launched last month, and meetings were held with the Association of Undertakers.

An investigation by the dispute resolution unit found that the taxi crime bosses are operating in Khayelitsha, Nyanga, Gugulethu, Kraaifontein and at the Huguenot Tunnel, usually on Thursdays and Fridays. They claim an average fee of R7 500 from grieving families.

"The majority of the bodies come from Khayelitsha.”

Carlisle said one undertakers association had already gone to the Western Cape High Court complaining about intimidation and exploitation, and was granted a court interdict against the extortioners, but in certain cases the police refuse to enforce the interdict.

"(There are) cases where people like the police or security companies allegedly encourage such cases themselves, and are even accomplices.

'Disgraceful and shocking'

"I consider this to be one of the most disgraceful and shocking criminal activities in the province," Carlisle said.

He added that plans are being made to get the police and the metro police to join forces against these crime bosses.

"It's highly unlikely to be a peaceful process. It's going to be extremely difficult but it will, most definitely be eradicated."

He said a provincial task team in collaboration with the police is being assembled in order to take on these criminals.

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Porsche takes Ring SUV record

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In an attempt to set one of the more irrelevant Nurburgring records, Dunlop hustled a Cayenne around the world’s most famous track in under nine minutes.

Although most car aficionados live in the hope that a standardised class system might perhaps one day add relevance to the litany of Nurburgring records claimed week after week, it sure doesn’t stop people trying to set new ones in the meanwhile.

Simply put, manufacturers just can’t help themselves using any unexploited record niche to market product.

Cayenne fastest SUV round the 'Ring?

Porsche, after its epic spat with Nissan concerning 911 turbo/GT-R lap times recently, will be heartened by Dunlop’s decision to send a Cayanne Turbo round the Ring on a quest for lap record bragging rights.

For Dunlop it was an opportunity to showcase the performance credentials of the new SP Quattromaxx SUV tyre range.

This new tyre is moulded with a trick double tread compound to render superior feedback in both wet and dry conditions.

Dunlop settled upon Patrick Simon to do the driving. Seeing as Simon is a Porsche Supercup racer expectations were high.

We don’t quite know why Dunlop selected the 368kW Cayenne Turbo instead of the S version, as the latter boasts an additional 36kW…

When the howls of tortured rubber finally fell silent, Simon had piloted the world’s ugliest 2.3t worth of car around the Nurburgring in 8:33.99.

Hardly a sub eight minute hero time, yet a second faster than Ford’s ST nonetheless.

Then again, it’s a significant 17 seconds adrift of something more focussed, like Renault’s Megane R26.R.

Max Auto Updates - 15/10/2009

GM Deal to Sell Opel Imminent



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German news agencies are reporting that a deal to sell Opel to a group led by Magna International and its partner Sberbank will finally be signed as soon as today (15 October). General Motors will offload 55% of Opel to the Magna-led consortium, 10% to employees and retain a 35% share for itself. In return the workers will give up €1.2 billion (US$1.8 billion) in concessions. Concerns were raised regarding Opel's European factories, particularly in the UK's Vauxhall subsidiary and in Spain. The unions cried foul saying €4.5 billion (US$6.7 billion) of financial aid pledged by the German government would favour German factories over the rest. The majority of Vauxhall's 5,500 employees work at the manufacturing plants. Restructuring plans include cutting 10,500 of the 50,000 factory jobs across Europe but even that is still up in the air. The Belgian operation is one seen as being at risk. "Some progress is being made in talks between key parties," said a spokeswoman for the UK Department of Business, Innovation & Skills, "But there are still issues to be resolved. We, like everybody else, would like a speedy resolution but we want to get the terms right." Russia could be a real winner in the deal. Sberbank is the country's largest commercial bank and it and its partner want to plant €500 million (US$745 million) into their new company for expansion into Russia.

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B&B Enhances Audi A5/S5 Cabriolet



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B&B, the specialist Audi tuner, unveiled a comprehensive tuning package for the new Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolets. The whole range is given special B&B treatment and comes out of their garage probably feeling but definitely looking like new. An aerodynamic kit, 20-inch wheels with 255/30-20 tyres, adjustable suspension and large tailpipes give the cars a sporty stance.

Bottom of the range is the A5 Cabriolet powered by the 2.0 TFSI engine. The first stage of tuning consists of an electronics modification and an increase in boost pressure to take power to 184kW and 400Nm. Second and third stages increase power to 191kW and 217kW respectively while the final stage achieves 228kW and 465Nm. New airflow systems, a different turbocharger and other changes help.

For the 2.0 TDI common rail turbo diesel normal power and torque are 125kW and 350Nm. B&B can do two stages there, one for 147kW and 400Nm, and the other for 162kW and 420Nm. The bigger 3.0 TDI goes from a 206kW and 585 Nm stage one tune, to 221kW and 600Nm, and finally up to 239kW and 640Nm.

As for the S5 the engine electronics were optimised, a sport exhaust system installed and thus power gains made. The car gets a bump to 305kW and peak torque of 520Nm. How's that for a fast hairdryer?

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2010 Porsche 911 Turbo 10 Seconds faster



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The 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo has reportedly posted a laptime of 7 minutes and 39 seconds on the Nurburgring. That time beats out the last 911 Turbo by about ten seconds.

For 2010, the 911 Turbo uses a 3.8-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine that pumps out around 368kW and up to 651Nm of torque. This represents a 15kW increase over the 3.6-liter engine the German automaker used to use.

Power figures notwithstanding, the new 911 Turbo saves 25 kilograms by using the dual-clutch gearbox instead of the previous version's automatic. At just under 1600 kilos, the 911 Turbo now has a 230kW per tonne power-to-weight ratio.

The weight has been trimmed by 25kg in models with the new dual clutch gearbox over those running the old automatic to an impressive 1595kg, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 230kW/tonne.

With all-wheel drive, the 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo goes from 0-100km/h in about 3.4 seconds.

Max Auto Updates - 14/10/2009

BMW M3 V10 Estate Unleashed by Manhart Racing



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Manhart Racing has unveiled a V10-powered BMW "M3" E91 Estate.

Now, let that sink in for a second. BMW doesn't make an M3 Estate, and Manhart equipped one with the M5's 5.0-liter V10 engine instead of the M3's 4.0-liter V8! If that isn't insane enough, the company also added revised engine electronics and a HJS stainless-steel exhaust system (with two 200-cell racing catalytic convertors) which allows the engine to produce 405 kW.

Backed up by various M-spec parts (it uses the seven-speed SMG transmission and 100% limited slip differential from the M5 E60, while the axles and steering system come from the M3 E90), the M3 Estate rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, before topping out at 324 km/h.

Other performance tweaks include a Bilstein PSS10 coilover suspension, a Stoptech braking system (with six-piston calipers and 380mm brake discs up front / four-piston calipers and 355mm brake discs out back), and RÄD Monza three-part forged wheels wrapped in Hankook S1 Evo tires.

While the performance is mind boggling, the styling is fairly typical. The exterior receives a traditional M3 body kit, while the interior boasts leather and Alcantara upholstery, carbon fiber trim, and heated sport seats.

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Senner Whitelady Z Unleashed



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Senner Tuning has a new preliminary tuning package for the Nissan 370 Z Coupe. The Whitelady, a name reminscent of Z car heritage like the Fairlady, is already a competent tool. But we know there's always more to squeeze out.

Using the same 3.7-litre V6 Senner has upped power by 15kW from the standard 244kW to 259kW. The engineers did this by installing a new Invidia stainless steel exhaust system with improved air flow and larger tailpipes (101mm diameter). More performance is currently being developed.

Technical changes include a lower suspension system - 50mm up front and 45mm at the rear, adjustable compression damping and an increased track width. The wheels are light alloys measuring 9x20 at the front and 10x20 at the rear. They come in either Racing White or Matt Black Polish. Fitted tyres measure 245/35 R20 and 275/30 R20 respectively.

Senner is currently working on a body kit that consists of carbon fibre accessories, a front apron, a rear apron and a rear spoiler. Stay tuned.

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2010 Audi A1 Details Emerge



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CAR magazine UK has reported on its candid conversation with Audi executives regarding the A1. According to CAR, the A1 will not only come in hatchback form but also as cabriolet and estate models potentially including quattro AWD.

"We will start with the three-door version with several different engine variants," Schwarzenbauer told CAR. "Will we do further models? Look at what we do with the A3 range - we could something similar with the A1."

That means probably anything from a 1.2-litre up to 1.8-litre turbo units, both petrol and diesel. Because the A1 will be a direct rival to the MINI, which is busy testing an electric model (MINI e), it may be safe to assume that alternative power sources are also on the cards here. We'd definitely be up for a performance S1 as well. And since MINI has all sorts of variations, including SUVs, two-seat Coupes and Roadsters coming up, expect the A1 to follow suit with similar offerings and even a possible Q1 SUV.

In terms of basic looks Audi has already given clues through the Metroproject Concept car (pictured here). The A1 is very important to Ingolstadt as it will add greater volumes and spur the company on with its plans to overtake BMW as the world's largest premium car manufacturer by 2015.

Unfortunately the A1 does not quite feature in the Audi's US plans as yet. Executives have said as much on a number of occasions.

Max Auto Updates - 13/10/2009

Lamborghini LP 640 JB-R by JB Car Design



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=936

JB Design could not get better motivation than the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640. The tuner's version called the LP 640 JB-R looks to be a proper menace with the correct credentials. Sporting a limited-edition paint job that's only available through JB Design, the car already starts off exclusively.

Those 20-inch Schmidt aluminium rims are wrapped in Michelin wide base tyres sizes 265/30-20 and 335/30-20 front and rear respectively. The aerodynamic kit includes a front spoiler, front air intake, side skirts, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser. The sport exhaust system can have its sound volume changed while in motion through the mere push of a button. The underbody has been streamlined to help offer the highest level of performance in both handling and top speed situations.

Under the bonnet lies the V12 engine whose power is upped to 525kW in Power Level I and 552kW in the second level. An F1-style steering rocker switch changes gears and assists the LP 640 JB-R to attain top velocity of 370km/h.

Interior luxury appointments include dark red ultra suede and black smooth leather, carbon fibre inserts and all-round tinted windows.

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B&B Tunes Audi Q7 6.0 V12 TDI facelift



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=937

The range topping Q7 6.0 V12 TDI (368 kW and 1000 Nm of torque) can be equipped with a Stage 2 package that features revised electronics, a modified turbo (it increases boost pressure 0.2 bar), and various other upgrades. Thanks to these tweaks, the engine produces 416 kW and 1220 Nm of torque. If that isn't powerful enough for you, the company can add a recalibrated ECU which enables the engine to turn out 438 kW and 1270 Nm of torque.

For the Q7 4.2 TDI, B&B offers two different performance choices. The Stage 1 package boasts 276 kW and 850 Nm of torque, while the Stage 2 upgrade features 294 kW and 900 Nm of torque. Models equipped with the latter package can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6 seconds, before topping out at speeds above 250 km/h.

Finally, the Q7 3.0 TDI can be equipped with a Stage 3 package that produces 206 kW and 585 Nm of torque, a pure "electronic performance optimization" with 221 kW and 600 Nm of torque, or a hardcore package which produces 239 kW and 640 Nm of torque.

In terms of styling, B&B offers a variety of wheels (available in 20, 22 and 23 inches), a sport suspension that lowers the ride height by up to 50mm, and a 13-piece body kit from Caractere.

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Manuel gets R1.2 million BMW

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=938

Trevor Manuel and Blade Nzimande seem to differ on quite a few things, economic policy in particular, but they do agree on one thing: a BMW.

Manuel's ministry has joined the ranks of the higher education minister, and Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda, and acquired a BMW 750i as his official car.

This luxury car cost the tax payer R1 091 450, slightly less than Nzimande and Nyanda's cars. The vehicle was fitted with accessories - "standard extras" apparently - worth R99 200.

In a written response to a question by DA MP Greg Krumbock, Manuel said his planning ministry is a new one, and thus he hadn't inherited a vehicle.

The vehicle was bought when the service plan of Manuel's previous official car expired, which would have made it too expensive to maintain.

The DA sent questions regarding the purchase of new vehicles for ministers to all government departments.

Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga spent R1.7 million on two vehicles, while Deputy Police Minister Fikile Mbalula spent R1.6 million on two vehicles, of which one is a new BMW 7 series worth R832 700.

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Car thief killed by mob

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=939

A suspected car thief was beaten to death by mob in Kagiso on Monday morning, Johannesburg police said.

Inspector Solomon Sibiya said a second man was in a critical condition at hospital.

It was believed that the pair attempted to steal a car from a driveway and the car owner alerted residents.

"The two suspects were cornered and severely beaten up. The police were called and they were taken to hospital, where one was certified dead on arrival," said Sibiya.

A case of theft and murder was being investigated.

No arrests were made.

Max Auto Updates - 12/10/2009

MEC gets R100k a month for car

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=933

KwaZulu-Natal economic development and tourism MEC Mike Mabuyakhulu received an average of R100 000 a month for using his private car for government work, The Mercury newspaper reported on Friday.

The paper reported that Mabuyakhulu submitted a bill of R383 618.07 in four months from May to August this year for using his Range Rover.

The bill has caused an outcry from opposition parties, which called for the provincial government to review accommodation arrangements for MECs not living in Pietermaritzburg.

Mabuyakhulu lives in Empangeni and it costs government a fortune to subsidise his daily trips, the paper reported.

Mabuyakhulu’s spokesperson Mathatheni Mabaso said the issue was blown out of proportion.

'Nothing wrong'

“The MEC has done nothing wrong. He claims for genuine kilometres that he travels. The law allows him to use his private car for work if he wishes to do so.”

He said he did not understand why opposition parties complained that Mabuyakhulu used his own car for work purposes, saying that opposition parties also complained when ministers used state money to buy cars.

"Here we have an MEC who used his own money to buy a car. He also uses his own petrol and he forks out his own cash to maintain the car. The state reimburses him for the money he uses on his car."

He said Mabuyakhulu had bought a big car because of KwaZulu-Natal’s topography which had many rural areas that the MEC had to visit.

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ENCO Gladiator 700 GT Biturbo

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=934

ENCO Exklusive is not as famous as a number of other German tuners but their work speaks volumes. The latest project to come from the city of Chemnitz is this ENCO Gladiator 700 GT Biturbo that's based on the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.

The Gladiator is preceded by the ENCO 550 GT Biturbo with 405kW. Thanks to larger turbos, sport catalytic convertors, an ENCO-designed sport exhaust system with manifolds and other modifications, power gains were made.

A maximum of 515kW has been released to accompany the 850Nm of torque sent to all four wheels. Zero to 100km/h is achieved in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 290km/h is possible. All that from a 2.5-tonne SUV. Stopping power comes from 410mmx36mm brake disks and 12-piston callipers up front and 380mmx32mm disks with 4-piston callipers at the rear. Black and red ENCO Jura alloy rims sized 11" x 23" are fitted inside 315/25R23 Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tyres.

Exterior kit includes daytime running lights, a front apron, a carbon fibre bonnet, a roof spoiler with air flow openings and side skirts. Inside there are four carbon fiber race seats (from the 911 GT3) covered in leather/Alcantara and a roll cage. The black and red theme is carried through the interior carbon fibre fittings on the centre console, door lining and steering wheel among others.

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Chinese take bite out of GM

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=935

Tengzhong, a little-known Chinese machinery maker that has agreed to buy GM's Hummer brand, said on Monday it has begun to seek regulatory approval for the deal, aiming to close the purchase by early 2010.

Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery, which first announced its intent to buy Hummer in June, has been in touch with the Chinese government after signing a landmark deal to acquire the brand last week, a company spokeswoman said.

"We have started communicating with the relevant regulatory bodies and will continue to support the application process in accordance with the requirements," she said, adding that Tengzhong hoped to close the deal late this year or early 2010.

She did not specify which government bodies Tengzhong had contacted. China's Ministry of Commerce has authority over the deal while the National Development and Reform Commission would have to approve any new major investment in the country, such as building a new manufacturing base.

She said Tengzhong would also explore opportunities to set up a Hummer manufacturing base in China targeting the Chinese market.

The deal must also be approved by US regulators.

Sentiment switch

Initial sentiment toward the sale was negative in China, with many questioning why a Chinese firm with no experience running a major Western brand would want to buy a struggling name known for its large gas-guzzling vehicles.

But the mood has turned more neutral since then, with regulators saying such purchases should be allowed when they make commercial sense.

Tengzhong aims to gain a globally known brand, intellectual property, a trademark and manufacturing expertise from the deal.

The purchase agreement with General Motors Co, signed on Friday, underscores the fast rise and global ambitions of the Chinese auto industry, populated by a wide range of fast-growing, aggressive car makers such as Geely Automobile, SAIC Motor Corp and BYD.

It marks the first time that Chinese investors have stepped in as major buyers into the distressed US auto industry, and comes after China surpassed the United States to become the world's largest auto market.

A source close to Tengzhong previously told Reuters that the Hummer business would be sold for about $150 million, far less than GM's earlier estimate that the brand could fetch more than $500 million.

Under the deal, Lumena Resources Corp Chairman Suolang Duoji would hold 20% of the investment vehicle buying Hummer. Tengzhong would hold the remaining 80%.

Hummer has its origins in a multipurpose vehicle known as the Humvee that was used by the US military. GM bought the brand in 1999 and its sales peaked in 2006, but they have been hit hard since then by a slumping US economy and higher gas prices.

Max Auto Updates - 09/10/2009

Jhb testing stations closed

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=930

Johannesburg's licensing and testing stations were closed on Thursday and only a few traffic officers on the streets in a protest by union members at the metro police department.

The department was left with a small number of workers due to SA Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) members being unhappy with the return of metro police chief Chris Ngcobo, spokeswoman Inspector Edna Mamonyane said.

"Service has been affected in our licensing and testing stations, the call centre, the accidents office and there's a shortage of traffic personnel due to the interruption."

The few metro police officers that came to work were sent to serious accidents, hence their low visibility throughout the city.

"I don't know what to call this, because we have not received any notice for a strike. Yesterday [Wednesday] workers obtained permission to have a meeting between 10am and 12 noon, but they did not return to work afterwards."

Samwu chairperson Ishmael Mangole said he was not aware of a strike.

Address by city manager

"All I know is that members are waiting to be addressed by the city manager [Mavela Dlamini] or a representative from his office.

We wrote the city manager a letter voicing our dissatisfaction with the outcome of the investigation [into Ngcobo's conduct].

Ngcobo was recently cleared of misconduct charges and re-instated following a probe by the City of Johannesburg.

This raised Samwu's ire and it went on strike last year, calling for his dismissal.

The metro police boss was accused of failing to perform his duties, failing to act decisively on allegations about three suspended employees and promoting corruption by giving some employees allowances.

Ngcobo stepped down and the investigation followed.

"What we are saying is that we distance ourselves from the outcome of the investigation," Mangole said.

Ngcobo returned to work on Monday.

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N1 lanes to be closed

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=931

Some lanes on the N1 highway at the Atterbury Road Interchange will be closed on Sunday to place the inner beams on one of the new bridges being built, the SA National Roads Agency said on Thursday. Spokeswoman Priya Pillay said the lanes would be closed from 6am until 3pm. "This is another major step in the development of the interchange. The placing of the beams will require the closure of the fast lanes on both the north and south-bound carriageways of the N1 under the Atterbury Road bridges." Pillay said the lane closures would affect motorists using the N1, as well as the north-bound onramp loop towards Polokwane.

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AVUS Tunes Audi TT-RS for 338kW



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=932

Avus Performance has unveiled a new tuning package for the Audi TT-RS.

Dubbed the "new Ur-Quattro," the car features a modified ECU, a revised turbocharger, and a high performance exhaust system with racing catalysts. While this doesn't sound like much, the changes enable the 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine to produce 338kW and more than 639 Nm of torque. In terms of performance, the car accelerates from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds and the top speed is a breathtaking 312 km/h.

For comparison, the standard TT-RS "only" has 250kW and 450 Nm of torque. It runs from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds, before topping out at an electronically limited 250km/h.

Avus also equipped the car with an adjustable coilover suspension, a matt black vinyl wrap, and gloss black 20-inch Sportec Mono wheels outfitted with 255/30/20 Hankook S1 Evo tires.

Max Auto Updates - 08/10/2009

SA blind man hits 323 km/h

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=928

A South African man set a new world land speed record for the blind in Upington on Tuesday, when he reached a speed of 322.5km/h in a Mercedes-Benz SL 65 Black series.

Hein Wagner, who was born blind, is a motivational speaker from Durbanville.

In 2005 Wagner became the first South African to set a world land speed record. He reached 269km/h in a Maserati.

According to him, reaching a speed of 321.9km/h is a milestone for any driver, regardless of whether they're sighted or blind.

Record

His feat will be entered in the Guinness World Records, as he broke the previous record of 308km/h, set by a blind Belgian. Wagner maintained the 322.5km/h speed for a distance of 1 000m.

The runway at the Upington International Airport proved to be long enough for accelerating, setting the record, and safely coming to a standstill.

Wagner wants to use this record to raise funds for his Vision Trust organisation, which is aimed at making technology more accessible to the blind.

Finding an appropriate car proved to be a challenge, but the solution appeared in the form of a powerful Mercedes-Benz which belongs to Johannesburg businessman Lolly Jackson.

Global Consulting Solutions sponsored the insurance of R50 000 for the two days. His navigator was Ray Wakefield from Speedrecord SA.

Wagner thanked the airport staff and the ambulance service for their support.

Next challenge

According to him, "you're stupid if you aren't scared" when tackling such a record. He is already preparing for his next challenge: flying a Boeing - passengers and all - from London to Johannesburg.

Wagner has many adventures under his belt. In 2006 he completed the New York City Marathon in 4 hours and 27 minutes. He also performed his first skydive in 2005, from a height of 10 000ft (3km).

He completed a cycling race, the Construction du Cap, as a solo cyclist. He also participated in the Cape-to-Rio yacht race and climbed the ten highest mountains in the Western Cape.

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SA carmakers 'dying'

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=929

The South African automotive industry could cease to exist in the next five to seven years unless steps are taken to improve its competitiveness.

"And we need to this in the next one to two years," said Dave Powels, president of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa).

Powels was addressing industry representatives at the Automotive Industry Conference at the 2009 South African Automotive Week in Port Elizabeth.

The local motor industry's lack of competitiveness is illustrated by South Africa's 24th world ranking in terms of automotive manufacturing. This equates to a mere 0.8% contribution to total world output.

South Africa's main export partners are Japan, the United States and the European Union. However, automotive exports have been severely hurt by the worldwide credit crisis and economic slowdown over the past 12 months.

Increase local component content

Naamsa anticipates component exports to decline by 40% in 2009, while finished car exports are expected to contract 35% in the current calendar year.

Powels said one of the key proposals to make the industry more competitive is to increase locally produced car components to over 70%. At present, just over a third of the parts in South African cars are local.

"If we don't have higher local content, there's no reason for the South African motor industry to exist," said Johan van Zyl, president and CEO of Toyota Motors South Africa. He added that this may mean restructuring car makers' supplier bases.

Powels said importing a big portion of components makes local cars expensive. According to Naamsa calculations, the manufacturing process in South Africa is 20% to 30% more expensive than that of China and India.

Representatives of the component industry have agreed that the industry's viability lies in increasing local content.

"But we cannot do it alone. We need the support of government, banks and car manufacturers," said Stewart Jennings, president of the National Association of Automotive Components and Allied Manufacturers.

Jennings said the component industry needs interest rate subsidies of at least 2% as well as easier loan terms.

"Banks and the Industrial Development Corporation need to stop hiding behind models as an excuse for cost increases," said Jennings.

Further challenges faced by component manufacturers include hard-to-source raw materials - for example the resin used in making interiors - and quality, such as locally produced steel used for exteriors.

Max Auto Updates - 07/10/2009

Judge: Traffic cop wanted bribe

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=927

A judge has testified in a Pretoria court how a traffic official tried to elicit a bribe from her after pulling her over for speeding.

“Hello sweetie, are you having a nice day?” the traffic official allegedly asked the judge.

"I was not (having a nice day)," Judge Geraldine Borchers testified in the Pretoria Regional Court on Monday.

Unity Lovely Mahlangu, 46, was accused of trying to get Borchers to pay a bribe on June 26 last year.

She denied guilt.

Knew she had been speeding

Mahlangu apparently didn't realise that Borchers was a judge in the South Gauteng High Court.

Borchers testified that she had been travelling at about 160km/h on the N4 between Pretoria and Bronkhorstspruit when she was pulled over.

According to Borchers, Mahlangu asked her: "Are you happy to pay that (fine of) R800?"

"I said of course I'm not happy, but I have to pay it because I'm guilty."

The court heard how Mahlangu then pointed to her clipboard and asked if she should write down R800.

"Please don't tell me you're asking me to bribe you," Borchers replied.

Colleagues ignored her

"No, but you can pay a R200 fine right here," said Mahlangu, according to the judge's testimony.

"I was very angry and told her she had chosen the wrong person to try that with."

According to Borchers, Mahlangu then said she should just drive away, but the judge refused, and instead insisted on a fine and the name of the official.

"I yelled at her and she yelled at me and then I got out of the car."

Borchers testified that she approached Mahlangu's three colleagues who were standing at a speeding camera, but "they behaved as if I was invisible. They just kept staring at the road."

Case postponed

Borchers then stood directly in front of the speeding camera and threatened to smash it to pieces.

"(Mahlangu) was very upset and trembling at that stage." She handed Borchers a R600 fine.

Jafta Mabena, representing Mahlangu, asked Borchers why she had been driving so fast.

"I was negligent," she replied curtly.

The case was postponed until next month.

Max Auto Pit Shirt

Been working on a design for my own pit shirt for a while... will be getting my wife to make me the first one.

What you guys think?

Max Auto Updates - 06/10/2009

Nissan GT-R Replacement Coming in 2013

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=925

Nissan GT-R fans had to wait a long and painful five years before the company made their dreams come true by moving from the Skyline GT-R (R34) to the current GT-R (R35). According to PistonHeads the wait will not be as long next time around.

Nissan Vice President of Global Product Planning Andy Palmer told a gathering of mostly GT-R Programme engineers and staff that despite the prevailing economic slowdown the company was fully committed to their pet project. Leader of the project Kazutoshi Mizuno was also present during the announcement.

Palmer acknowledged the importance of the GT-R in the Nissan product mix and said the next installment would use an evolution of the current platform and also keep its V6 configuration. Engine size and power were not mentioned but an increase of the latter should be expected. The R35 makes about 357kW from its twin turbo 3.8-litre V6.

The plan is for Nissan to continuously pour a bit of money into developing the car until the next one has fully evolved as a completely new car.

Judging from the fact that its main rival from Porsche has a lifecycle of 5 to 6 years it may be safe to assume that we'll see a full-production R36 by 2013.

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SharkWerks 3.9L Engine Kit for Porsche GT3



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=926

SharkWerks has partnered with Evolution Motorsports to deliver a U.S.-tuned version of the Porsche 997 GT3.

The engine conversion kit adds 0.3 liters to the engine's displacement and provides and additional 64 kW to the production 997 GT3. The 3.9 liter now delivers 369 kW and 480 Nm over the production 3.6 liter's 305 kW with the new piston and cylinder kit developed by the Freemont, CA and Tempe, Arizona-based tuners (SharkWerks and Evolution Motorsports, respectively).

Interesting to note is the EVOMSit software kit provided by Evolution Motorsports which can calibrate the engine for either 91 or 93 octane fuel.

Max Auto Updates - 05/10/2009

New car sales continue slide

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=920

South Africa total industry new vehicle sales declined by 19.5% year-on-year to 35 931 units in September, the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers (Naamsa) said on Friday.

When stripping out sales from Associated Motor Holdings and Amalgamated Automobile Distributors - which report separately - sales fell by 22.4% to 31 726 units compared with September last year, Naamsa said.

Vehicle sales remain weak, having been in decline for more than two years, knocked by soft domestic demand, although the rate of decline is slowing, while a global downturn has slashed exports.

Exports were down 49.3% in September at 13 974 vehicles.

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Fuel price relief

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=921

The retail price of petrol will drop next week, the Energy Department said on Friday.

Petrol 93 ULP and LRP will decrease in price by 39c a litre and the price of Petrol 95 ULP and LRP will drop by 40c a litre.

The wholesale price of diesel with a 0.05% sulphur content will drop by 32.5c a litre.

Diesel with a 0.005% sulphur content will fall by 33.5c a litre.

The wholesale price of illuminating paraffin will drop by 27.5c a litre and the single maximum national retail price for illuminating paraffin will decrease by 37c a litre.

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Volkswagen Golf GTI Treated with 186kW



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=922

Brit tuner APS has a power boosting upgrade for the Golf GTI that will take the iconic hot-hatch up to 186 kW

APS, based in Brackley, Northamptonshire in the U.K., calls the performance boost Stage One, perhaps hinting at higher power levels to come. The standard VW Golf GTI's 2.0 liter, turbocharged engine comes with 155 kW and 280 Nm. APS takes those number up to 186 kW, at 5800 rpm, and 395 Nm at 2650 rpm.

That makes the Stage One GTI go from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds, a substantial 0.7 seconds quicker than the factory version. Top speed also get a bump up to 250km/h from the production 240km/h.

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Roads may kill more than Aids

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=923

South Africa's roads could claim more lives than HIV/Aids and malaria combined by 2020, if accidents are not prevented, Transport Minister Sbu Ndebele said on Sunday. He was speaking at the funeral, in Queenstown, of six people who died in a taxi accident on the N6 freeway last week. "The continent of Africa has the most dangerous roads in the world," said Ndebele. "Unless we do something about it today, soon we will find that in 2020 roads will kill more people than those who die from HIV and malaria put together," he said. In South Africa road crashes claimed the lives of more than 16 000 people a year - half of them pedestrians - and cost the country more than R14bn a year. Ndebele questioned whether the Arrive Alive campaign was working as people continue to die. "Is it because we have too many cars on our roads that we have so many accidents? Can we afford these deaths? No. Is this something we must do something about? Yes," said Ndebele. South Africa had more than seven million licensed drivers and eight million registered vehicles, increasing six percent a year. Ndelebele said factors which contributed to road accidents were excessive speed, drinking and driving, and not wearing seatbelts. Cars, light delivery vehicles and minibuses were the top three vehicle types likely to be involved in a crash. "The police must show no mercy. We are certain of this and we owe it to the people we are burying today (Sunday) that their lives must spur us towards safer roads. We are certain of this," said Ndebele.

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Hijackers give woman taxi fare

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=924

A duo of "thoughtful" robbers gave a woman R10 from her bag for minibus taxi fare in order to get home after hijacking her over the weekend.

Police spokesperson Joey Jeevan told The Witness that Chantel Holgate parked her car near a shopping centre in Pietermaritzburg's Victoria Road area at around 10:15 on Saturday when two men approached her vehicle.

Jeevan said the men threatened to shoot Holgate, although they did not produce firearms.

One of the men forced his way into the driver’s seat.

They then left the city and eventually stopped at Thornville, where they took Holgate’s bag, money and other possessions.

She said the hijackers gave Holgate R10 in order to “take a minibus taxi” to get home, before fleeing in her blue Ford Laser.

Max Auto Updates - 01/10/2009

R300m boost for SA taxi industry

http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=918

South Africa's taxi industry was given a boost with the signing of an agreement between Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance (AVAF) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) on Wednesday.

In a statement, Absa said the new arrangement would also see millions of commuters enjoy new standards of safety when thousands of new, legally compliant, taxis entered the market.

The deal, the first of its type in South Africa, sees the bank undertaking to provide up to R300m in funding to emerging taxi operators and black entrepreneurs wishing to enter the industry.

The IDC has agreed to underwrite up to 50% of any losses incurred by Absa, if clients financed under the scheme defaulted on their payments.

"We've been a strategic partner of the IDC since 2006, so this joint initiative is a perfect fit for us," Marcel de Klerk, managing executive of AVAF said.

"It is in line with our goal of doing all we can to support the Taxi Recapitalisation Project's objective of putting compliant taxis on the roads.

"It will also lower barriers and make it easier for operators to enter the market," De Klerk said.

Taxi industry growth

In addition the agreement would enhance the travel experience and safety of millions of commuters who make use of taxis.

Katinka Schumann, divisional executive for services sectors at the IDC, said the corporation recognised the positive contribution the product will make to developing emerging transport entrepreneurs and the growth of the taxi industry in particular where the potential for creating new job opportunities was greater.

"This is in line with the IDC's 'Leadership in Development' strategy where we seek to stimulate the creation of jobs by funding opportunities that promote entrepreneurship, BEE and SME development," Schumann added.

She added that the IDC was focused and dedicated to nurturing and supporting the development of the South African taxi industry and to building partnerships in aid of stimulating a competitive economy.

In terms of the agreement, AVAF will, in cooperation with the IDC, offer funding to emerging or established black taxi operators, black-owned companies and taxi associations.

The interest-rate on loans granted will be capped at a maximum of Prime + 4% and applicants must have a deposit of between 15% and 20% of the total loan value.

"Before any loan is granted, we will undertake a detailed analysis, to ensure the projected route-income generated by the taxi to be financed will be enough to cover the expenses of the taxi operator, as well as the monthly loan-repayments," De Klerk said.

Clients would be subject to normal AVAF credit-worthiness ratings and the maximum finance term was 54 months but AVAF said it might restructure the agreement for a longer or shorter term.

"The black taxi industry is vital to the growth and prosperity of South Africa's economy and it is therefore imperative that everything possible be done to support it," Schumann said.

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Subaru Impreza WRX STI Carbon Announced



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=919

Subaru's Impreza STI is a legend in its own time. Generally a number of versions like the Spec C and the A-Line get put out during its life cycle and the Impreza WRX CARBON will be one of these. It is based on the A-Line model which features a 5-speed automatic gearbox - yes, you read correctly. In keeping with the softening of the STI's traditionally hardcore image the automatic transmission was introduced so more customers could appreciate the car's performance.

The main difference with the CARBON model is that a carbon fibre roof has been fitted in order to achieve weight reduction, lower the centre of gravity and consequently offer better performance. Additionally suede fabric has been used in the interior to give that extra lushness and comfort.

Two engines are currently found in the STI hatch, depending on the market. The most common one is the 2.0-litre turbo that makes 227kW and 422Nm of torque. A number of other places get a 2.5-litre turbo making around 221kW and maximum torque of 407Nm.

The Impreza WRX CARBON will be unveiled publicly at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show which starts 21 October for media and 24 October for the public.