Ford UK has announced the Focus Zetec S.

Based on the Focus Zetec, the S comes with a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17in alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

2012 Ford Focus Zetec S is powered by a 1.6 liter EcoBoost with 180PS (132 kW), which grants superb performance � 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 222 km/h (138 mph). Furthermore, the emissions are just 139 g/km.

The Zetec S Interior Pack, which adds Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power rear windows and global closing for a not unreasonable �800.oo.Developed specifically for UK customers, Focus Zetec S will start at �18,745.

Press Release

FORD ADDS SPORTIEST MODEL YET TO ALL-NEW FOCUS LINE-UP

• New Ford Focus Zetec S developed for the UK market
• Sportiest series ahead of 2012 Focus ST with 250PS
• Standard features include full body styling kit, 17in alloy wheels, sports suspension, rear LED tail lamps and sports pedals
• Priced from �18,745 on the road, equivalent to a Focus Titanium
• Choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol which debuts in the UK and features fuel-saving ECOnetic technologies
• On sale now

Brentwood, Essex, 29 November 2011- Ford introduces the sporty Zetec S to its acclaimed all-new Focus line up. Developed specifically for UK customers, Zetec S combines sporty styling with the debut of the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine.

Based on the existing Zetec model, it adds a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17in alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director, said: "Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit."

The Ford Focus Zetec S is available now in five-door bodystyle with estate to follow in February 2012, and is offered with a choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost turbo-charged petrol engine which has a top speed of 138mph, reaches 0-62mph in just 7.9sec and emits only 139g/km CO2. Any Focus Zetec S chosen with this engine or the 1.6-litre 115PS TDCi will carry the ECOnetic Technology badge, as they benefit from auto start-stop, Ford ECO mode, gear shift indicator, active grille shutter and smart regenerative charging.

The 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi are also available and can be specified with either manual or PowerShift automatic transmission.

At �18,745 on the road the Focus Zetec S is priced just �1,250 above the equivalent Zetec derivative, which represents outstanding value, as if purchased separately, the additional features would add over �1,700. The Zetec S and Titanium are identically priced so customers can choose either sport or luxury at the same price point.

Options include the technology-laden Driver Assistance Pack which has received several awards, cruise control with Active Speed Limiter and a Zetec S interior pack featuring Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power driver seat, power rear windows and global closing for �800.00.

Los Angeles debut : 2012 Volvo C70 Inscription

Volvo has releases the C70 Inscription,which will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The C70 Inscription is to be limited to just 2,000 cars worldwide, and you can grab one of those coming to the UK from �33,855 for the D3 SE Inscription.

The Volvo C70 Inscription will be available in three colors, Black Stone, Black Sapphire and Ice White, along with new 18 inch alloy wheels, high-gloss paint on the grille and LED Daytime Running Lights.

Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine which has been outfitted with a Polestar ECU. Thanks to this change, the engine develops 250 hp (186 kW / 253 PS) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque - an increase of 23 hp (17 kW / 23 PS) and 37 lb-ft (50 Nm).

Bespoke interior features like Sovereign Hide leather, aluminum pieces and a dash also wrapped in leather are included.Only 2,000 units of the 2012 Volvo C70 Inscription will be produced each year until the roadster ends production in 2013.

Press Release

Volvo C70 Inscription debuts at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show

C70 Inscription is the ultimate expression of Volvo's hardtop convertible
Increased horsepower and torque
Unique interior and exterior details
Limited production
On sale early next year


Los Angeles, Calif. (Nov. 8, 2011) - In Los Angeles it's all about being seen in the right car. Cruising Sunset Boulevard or Rodeo Drive in anything less than a gorgeous convertible is considered by locals as very un-cool.

With this in mind, Volvo Car Corporation is using the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show as the backdrop for introducing the 2012 C70 Inscription. Perhaps the ultimate expression of Volvo's iconic hardtop convertible, the Inscription package will be offered in limited quantities and is set to arrive in Volvo retailers early next year. Pricing for the Inscription package has not yet been announced The base MSRP for the 2012 C70 hardtop convertible is $39,950*.

"The C70 has always been a stunningly designed Volvo," said John Maloney, Vice President of Marketing, Volvo Cars of North America. "The C70 Inscription takes that beautiful design to the next level." Setting the C70 Inscription apart from the standard C70 is increased horsepower and torque and a number of unique exterior and interior features.

Unique to the U.S. market, the C70 Inscription gets its mettle through performance tuning to the Engine Control Module (ECM). Provided by Polestar, a Swedish racing and performance products company partnered with Volvo Cars, the tuning optimizes engine output in a variety of ways. More air and fuel are funneled into the combustion chambers and spark timing is advanced, creating notable performance gains. The turbocharged inline 5-cylinder engine generates 250 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm. Seamless power is routed to the front wheels through a 5-speed Geartronic automatic transmission.

Outside, the C70 Inscription includes a number of head-turning design features. A unique gloss-black grille slots beautifully between active dual Xenon headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights. Chrome surrounds the headlights and grille, giving the car a truly distinctive face. Stunning 18-inch black "Midir" wheels incorporate polished rims and spokes. A rear spoiler completes the exterior enhancements. The C70 Inscription is available in just two colors: Ice White and Black Sapphire Metallic.

Beautiful Scandinavian design has been a hallmark of the C70's interior since it was launched in 2006. The C70 Inscription follows this tradition while adding a host of luxurious appointments. Driver and passengers will immediately notice the gorgeous Sovereign Hide upholstery. Volvo's legendary seats are now more comfortable than ever. The dashboard is covered in leather and features contrasting stitching. Unique Inscription floor mats, handbrake lever and front headrests further distinguish the C70 Inscription from the C70.

Befitting a car of this stature, the C70 Inscription is a limited-production vehicle. Production volume globally is just 2,000 units annually. The U.S. will see just 500 examples of this exemplary automobile. The C70 Inscription package goes on sale in the U.S. during the first quarter of 2012.

2012 Ferrari FF Neiman Marcus special edition?Video?

Neiman Marcus has releases the ultimate gift in its annual Christmas Book, the 2012 Ferrari FF. The Neiman Marcus exclusive edition of the FF jumps from 0 to 60 in less than 3.7 seconds and reaches top speeds of over 200mph.

The Ferrari FF packs a 651-hp V12 engine, all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Out back, the FF�s 16-cubic-foot cargo hold will arrive filled with a custom-made luggage set that is designed to match the hue and finish of the leather interior.

The special edition Ferrari, priced at 395'000 USD, can be pre-ordered from Neiman Marcus starting October 27th, 2011, and will be delivered Spring 2012.

Press Release

THE 2012 FERRARI FF, BESPOKE FOR NEIMAN MARCUS

The NM exclusive edition of the 2012 Ferrari FF jumps from 0 to 60 in less than 3.7 seconds and reaches top speeds of over 200 MPH. The top-of-the-line model features 651-horsepower and a V12 engine, a proprietary, lightweight 4WD system (4RMTM), as well as a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission for seamless automatic shifting. Each car is identified by a numbered interior plaque and unique exterior color, "Grigio Caldo." The interior features soft-touch, semi-aniline leather with a matching custom luggage set. It comfortably seats 4 adults and features a class-leading 16 cubic feet of trunk space. The vehicle comes with Ferrari's 7-year maintenance plan, and enrollment in the 2012 Ferrari Winter Driving Experience in Aspen, Colorado. 10 available. Reserve your Ferrari FF by calling 800.558.0022 beginning promptly at 12:00 PM EDT on Thursday, October 27, 2011. Delivery to occur in Spring 2012.

($395,000.00; page 170)

Seat Mii?Video?

>
SEAT has unveiled the Mii minicar this is the Spanish company�s version of the Volkswagen Up!-based Citigo and skeptics bashed the first leaked image, Seat has its own Latin variant which will be a new entry-level model for the brand - the first minicar in the vehicle range since the Arosa (which was based on the VW Lupo) was discontinued back in 2005.

The Mii measures just 3550mm long with a boot volume of 251 litres and will be initially sold as a three door until the availability of a five door model later in 2012.

Power comes from a 1.0-litre engine in either 60PS or 75PS forms, and thanks to a low weight of 854kg it should be sprightly and nimble. The cleanest example, called the Mii Ecomotive, will be capable of covering 62.8mpg on the combined cycle and will emit 97g/km of CO2, making it free to tax and exempt from the London Congestion Charge. Both manual and automated manual transmission will be available.

The interior features all the body-colour panels of the VW too, and SEAT again offers the Mii with a �SEAT Portable System� infotainment device. This is based around a five-inch removable touchscreen that includes sat nav, hands-free phone and onboard computer.

The Mii will launch in three-door form later this year, with a five-door variant joining the line-up after first debuting in Volkswagen Up! form next year.





Press Release

THE PERFECT COMPANION FOR URBAN MOBILITY

SEAT Mii - the sporty city car with a youthful design

• Premium interior with great scope for individualization
• SEAT Portable System infotainment computer with Eco-trainer
• Innovative City Safety Assist with laser sensor
• Mii Ecomotive with just 97 grams of CO2/km
• CNG version is one of the world's cleanest vehicles
• Sales start in Spain in November; rest of Europe in Spring 2012

With the Mii, SEAT is presenting the perfect automobile for the urban lifestyle of today. The Mii makes life easier - with compelling utility, exceptional driving fun, high efficiency and innovative technology. The Mii combines SEAT's sporty Mediterranean design with the very best craftsmanship and enormous scope for individualization. Moreover, the outstanding value-for-money and reasonable maintenance costs make the joy of driving a Mii easily attainable - also typical SEAT. Spain, SEAT's home market, will begin sales of Mii before the end of the year, with the rest of Europe following in Spring 2012.

At a length of 3,56 meters, the Mii is the perfect size for modern-day urban spaces. The Mii comes to market at the end of 2011 as a two-door; the four-door version follows in 2012. The all-new 1.0-litre petrol engines with 44 and 55 kW (60 and 75 hp) combine with the low weight of 854 kilograms to guarantee light-footed agility and exemplary efficiency. The Mii Ecomotive has a CO2 figure of just 97 grams per kilometre. The Mii is also a leader when it comes to innovative technologies. The City Safety Assist for instance, adds an extra dimension of safety in the city, while the SEAT Portable System brings together entertainment, navigation, phone and vehicle functions in previously unheard-of fashion.

"The new Mii is the perfect partner for everyday urban life. It is young and fresh, thought through to the very last detail and built to the finest quality. The Mii brings clear SEAT identity to the sub-compact segment and is set to win a significant share of the market," says James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A. "This is why the Mii is an important addition to the SEAT portfolio and a clear next step in our company strategy. With the Mii, we are starting the most comprehensive model offensive in SEAT history."

The package - perfect for the city, but also for longer journeys

Even though the Mii fits lithely into every parking space, its optimum space usage means it still offers plenty of space for four. With a volume of 251 litres the Mii offers the largest luggage compartment in its class. With the rear seat back folded, this increases to as much as 951 litres.

Yet the Mii doesn't stop at the city boundaries. Its spaciousness, excellent comfort levels and sporty dynamics - also thanks to its low weight - also make the Mii a compelling companion over longer distances.

"At just 3.56 metres long, the Mii combines innovative technologies with an incredibly well-balanced overall feel," says Dr. Matthias Rabe, SEAT Vice President for Research and Development. "With its low weight and modern drives, the Mii is both sporty and efficient at the same time. It also offers comfort, spacious interior dimensions and a level of safety normally found in larger classes of car."

Design - Mediterranean modernity with clear character

Characteristic and unmistakable - from the very first glance, the Mii is clearly recognisable as a member of the SEAT family. Its front end carries forward the typical arrow visual, while its side line is distinguished by powerful wheel arches and slender roof pillars. The rear end shows a new form of light design with triangular lamp units. The perfect proportions are a key element and are made up of the width of 1.64 metres, the long wheelbase of 2.42 metres and unusually short overhangs front and rear. The steep rear end facilitates the Mii's exceptional spaciousness - optimal functionality is particularly important in the super-compact segment.

"The Mii breathes the very spirit of its remarkable hometown, Barcelona," says Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, the new Head of SEAT Design. "It is modern, it has a strong personality, but isn't loud. The Mii has the feel of a modern yet timeless product design. Every detail is precisely defined, but with not a line too many. With the Mii, we are making sporty chic and design quality attainable for all."

Modern clarity and compelling functionality are defining aspects of the interior, too. The perfect ergonomics of the instruments and the control elements fit beautifully with the premium surfaces that can be individualized using coloured trim from the various equipment lines. Its seats are also new - with integrated head restraints, they possess sports car flair, while being very comfortable and well-suited to long-distance driving.

Safety - the Mii looks ahead and brakes for itself

A unique innovation in this class of vehicle is the City Safety Assist - in the event of danger, the Mii warns its driver or even brakes automatically. A laser sensor recognizes other vehicles in front, whether they are driving or stationery. The system warns the driver under threat of an accident at less than 30 km/h. If he/she does not react, the Mii brakes autonomously. In many situations this is sufficient to avoid an accident altogether and will, at the very least, mitigate its consequences. A perfectly matched ESP system is also available and is always combined with City Safety Assist when specified.

Systematic lightweight design means that the base weight of the Mii is only 854 kilograms. Its bodyshell is a piece of hi-tech, formed largely from high-strength and, in places, form-hardened steels. Thanks to exceptional stiffness, it delivers a high-quality feel and excellent passive safety. The side airbags are standard equipment and are particularly large for optimum protection of head and upper body.

Drive - sporty agility with low fuel consumption

Beneath the short bonnet of the Mii is a completely new generation of engines. The compact three-cylinder with a one-litre displacement is very light, compact and smooth-running. With two outputs of 44 and 55 kW (60 and 75 hp), it ensures light-footed agility and compelling dynamics, and not just in city traffic.

Due to its top speed of 160 and 171 km/h, its fuel consumption is just 4.5 and 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres. With a 35-litre tank volume, it offers generous range and long-lasting driving fun - at very low maintenance costs.

The most notable efficiency experts are the two Ecomotive versions of the Mii. Thanks to a start/stop system, recuperation and further consumption-lowering initiatives, they make do with just 4.2 litres, which equates to a CO2 figure of just 97 grams/km. The little SEAT with the later available CNG drive emits a mere 86 grams of CO2/km, making the Mii one of the cleanest cars in the world. As an alternative to a manual transmission, the Mii is also available with an automated manual box, with two electric motors managing the smooth gear change.

Infotainment - unique tool aids efficient driving

SEAT is a young brand - the unique SEAT Portable System is, of course, part of that. The innovative solution with a 5-inch screen is removable for mobile use and yet perfectly integrated into the vehicle electronics. Its many functions include the navigation system, the hands-free phone system with voice control and an on-board computer. The PID can be combined with the integrated radio and speaker system.

"The Mii offers enormous intelligence in a compact format," says Dr. Matthias Rabe, SEAT Vice President for Research and Development. "The SEAT Portable System shows how it is possible to offer fascinating technology and innovative functions with tangible added value at an attractive price."

The unique functions of the SEAT Portable System include the Eco-trainer. Shift display, engine speed recommendations, average values and consumption profile all help the Mii owner to drive particularly economically. Plus, the SEAT Portable System is fully integrated into the vehicle electronics. It can be kept up-to-date via internet download, while tailor-made apps will offer additional functions in future.

Equipment - sporty chic or chic sportiness

With three equipment lines, two Style Packs and a wide array of optional equipment and accessories, the Mii can be adapted perfectly to suit individual lifestyles and preferences. Even the base model has all the key elements for safety and urban driving fun, such as ABS, an adjustable steering column, side airbags and Isofix points with Top Tether. Reference and Style are the names of the two other equipment lines, with Style offering features like power windows and central locking.

Would you prefer more chic or more sporting character in your Mii? The two equipment packages Chic and Sport offer the choice, with special colour and trim elements for interior individualization. Alloy wheels and a leather steering wheel are always part of the package - the chrome package in the Chic version adds a special touch, while the Sport version offers tinted windows and a sporty suspension setup for an even more dynamic feel.

SEAT is the only company in its sector with the full-range capacity to design, develop, manufacture and market cars in Spain. A member of the Volkswagen Group, the multinational has its headquarters in Martorell (Barcelona), exporting approximately 75% of its production to 72 countries. SEAT is the market leader in Spain, and in 2010 reached a turnover amounting to 4.7 billion Euros, with total sales of 339,500 vehicles.

SEAT Group employs 13,000 professionals at its three production centres in Barcelona - Zona Franca, El Prat de Llobregat and Martorell, where it manufactures the highly successful Ibiza and Leon, amongst other models. The Volkswagen Group production facility at Palmela in Portugal supplies the SEAT Alhambra.

The Spanish multinational also has a Technical Center, a �knowledge hub' bringing together more than 900 engineers whose goal is to be the driving force behind innovation for the number one industrial investor in R&D+i in Spain. In line with its declared commitment to environmental protection, SEAT undertakes and bases its core activity on sustainability, namely reduction of CO2 emissions, energy efficiency, as well as recycling and re-using of resources.

2012 Skoda Citigo

Skoda has releases details for Citigo city car, which will debut first as a
three-door hatch with a five-door variant following later in 2012. The car
goes on sale this year in its domestic Czech market while sales in the rest
of Europe will begin next summer (2012).

From the outside, styling of the Skoda is very clean, conservative yet
modern enough to fit in with the current Volkswagen/Skoda crop. The design
also seems to step away from the sometimes awkward design cues,
particularly in the front end, of other Skoda models.

The Citigo is powered by a three-cylinder 1.0 liter engine with either 60PS
(44 kW) or 75PS (55 kW). Both versions make 95Nm of torque and are mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Performance figures for the 929 kg vehicle are a 159 kph top speed and a
13.9 seconds 0-100 kph time for the 60 PS variant and a 170 kph top speed
and 0-100 kph time of 12.7 seconds for the 75 PS version. Both models wear
14-inch wheels wrapped with 165/70 profile rubbers.

The Citigo will measure just 3.56 metres long, 1.65 metres wide and 1.48
metres high. It has a wheelbase of 2.4 meters and offers 251 litres of boot
space, which can be extended to 951 litres by folding down the rear seats.





Press Release

A small �KODA for city traffic - "City Clever"

9/27/2011

With its seventh model line, �KODA is entering the small vehicle segment. The �KODA Citigo will be launched on the Czech market in late 2011. Market launches in Europe scheduled for the beginning of summer 2012.

�KODA is continuing its product offensive by introducing its seventh model line. With the Citigo, at 3.56m long, the Mlad� Boleslav automaker is entering the A00 segment. The Citigo will debut on the domestic Czech market this year. Other European countries will follow at the beginning of summer 2012. The Citigo offers maximum utilisation of space and seats for four passengers. The Citigo will be launched as a three-door, with a five-door version to come in 2012.

"The Citigo is one of the pillars of our growth strategy. It paves the way for our brand to enter a very promising segment," said �KODA Board Chairman Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. "The new product fully meets the corporate philosophy of the �KODA Brand expressed through the "Simply Clever" slogan. Despite its small size, it offers ample interior space, but is surprisingly agile, and attractive in terms of trims and technologies used.

Although the Citigo is a small car, it is a typical �KODA-and as such fits perfectly with our plans."The designers managed to give the car a distinct look that declares at first glance: this is the new �KODA. The finned grille set in a chrome-plated frame and precisely shaped headlamps give the car the typical �KODA look. The designers have done a fantastic job on the rest of the car's body. With a length of 3.56 metres, width of 1.65 metres and height of 1.48 metres, the Citigo is one of the smallest vehicles in its segment. The volume of the luggage compartment is 251 litres. It can be extended to 951 litres by folding down the rear seats.

The key target groups are young drivers, young families looking to get themselves a second or even third car, and also "best agers." They are customers who are rather cost-sensitive and have a rational approach to cars on the one hand but high demands for quality, practicality, design and safety on the other. �KODA did not have much to offer such groups of customers in the small car segment. Prof. Vahland: "We can see that the demand for small cars with low fuel consumption, at a favourable price and with reasonable operating costs is growing.

�KODA's new small vehicle is a reaction to this trend. We are entering new ground and the Citigo will attract a lot of customers mainly in our European markets."The Citigo places great emphasis on safety. For the first time in a �KODA vehicle, the designers have used a Head-Thorax side airbag to protect the heads of both the driver and the front seat passenger and together with other elements it forms an exemplary safety packet in its class. In addition, active safety is significantly enhanced by the new "City Safe Drive" brake assistant. The system is automatically activated at speeds below 30 km/h and a laser sensor identifies a danger of collision. Along with the Volkswagen up!, the Citigo is currently the only car in the small vehicle segment to offer the emergency braking functionality.

Two new, three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engines will be available after the Citigo's launch: both have a volume of 1.0 litre and their power outputs are 44 kW/60 HP and 55 kW/75 HP. In the economical Green Tec version average consumption is 4.2l/100km and 4.3l/100km respectively. Emissions are 97g and 99g CO2/km respectively. Fuel consumption and emissions are 4.5l/100km and 105g CO2 per km for the 44kW engine. The engine with a power output of 55kW consumes 4.7l/100km and emits 108g of CO2 per km.

Range Rover Evoque readies for Dakar with BMW power

The Land Rover Evoque is headed to participate in the next running of the Dakar Rally with a few necessary modifications. The British Excite Rally Raid Team is planning to take to the sands of South America with three cars shelled in the body of an Evoque.

Made by RaBe Race Cars, the purpose-built vehicles feature a tubular chassis, a Range Rover Evoque body and a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter diesel engine with 275 hp (205 kW / 271 PS) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. Other highlights include a ZF transmission, a Reiger coil-over suspension and 16-inch wheels with BF Goodrich desert racing tires.

Each machine will be built by RaBe Race Cars, which has a long history of churning out Dakar-ready hardware for other teams. All three Evoque bruisers will be campaigned by a fully British crew that includes names like Martin Rowe, Andrew Coley and John Hardy. The 2012 Dakar Rally Raid kicks off on January 1, 2012.





Press Release

BRITAIN'S ALL-PROFESSIONAL DAKAR RALLY TEAM IS BACK ON TRACK(S)...

The Excite Rallye Raid Team has announced its driver and equipment line up for 2012 and also for the 2013 Dakar Rally: the team will be running 3 vehicles specially commissioned from RaBe Race Cars, driven by Martin Rowe, John Hardy and Andrew Coley. (Driver biographies are detailed below in Editor's notes).

Poole-based Excite Rallye Raid is the only professional, all-British Dakar Rally team to beentering the gruelling Dakar Rally in 2013.

In fact, Excite Rallye Raid Team is the first professional, all-British team to ever set itssights on the Dakar Rally.

The team combines world class drivers with an experienced management, marketing and support crew, working with the tough and reliable RaBe Race Cars vehicle to fly the flag for Great Britain in the spirit of all the great British explorers and adventurers from history.

Business Manager David Jones says: "We've been working on this project for a long time; we haven't disappeared, but we have had to change our approach due to the economic climate everyone is working in. We looked at the level of media coverage for rally raid events, and recognised that if we wanted to secure the necessary backing, we first needed to secure the coverage, across all forms of media - and with some really unique ideas, we're confident we've now done that.

We were approached by a manufacturer, RaBe Race Cars, whose staff have been around the sport for a long time. They've been monitoring our progress for a couple of years and on seeing our professional approach, they asked if we could work together. We have goals that we would like to achieve which we can each assist the other with, so we have now set our sights a bit higher. Of course, this fits perfectly with our other goal of achieving the right level of financial backing."

Mike Jones of RaBe Race Cars says: "RaBe Race Cars has years of off-road motorsport experience at every level, from club to International works teams. In fact we have a family motorsport tree that is celebrating its 100th Anniversary of continuous motorsport involvement in 2012. The last 15 years have been devoted to Desert racing and achieving not just a finish but top honours at Dakar. Little known outside of the bivouac of Dakar, we have built cars for many other teams who race under their own colours and logos.

The partnership with the Excite Rally Raid Team is part of our desire to push our skills to the top of our sport.

The road to developing a serious car has been as tough as the race itself. After 4 years of testing and development, we now have a car that can stand up against any of its peers. The five prototypes have already competed at three different Dakars, achieving a mechanical finish reliability rate of 100%. With this reliability and the knowledge gained from testing in Morocco, we will be able to focus on the fine tuning of the D4_WN5 production version to leap into the world rally raid spotlight. This is a very serious Dakar car, and we are very pleased to combine our skills with the Excite Rally Raid Team for a serious attempt at Dakar.

The Excite rally team bring all the extra pieces together to help us move forward and have a serious all-British attempt at a podium finish and ultimately a world championship crown. We very much like the skills that the Excite team are bringing from a wide range of other motorsports and all the key members of the combined effort bring something very unique to the wider team. The 2012 season will be a great year for the Excite rally team and UK motorsport fans will see a lot more of a massive global sport that they all know and love.... the Dakar Rally."

Team Principal and Driver John Hardy says: "This is the best chance an independent manufacturer team has had to perform at the top level in a long time. We hope that we may be able to work towards a very good result on the Dakar in 2013 and then, next time around, why not shoot for overall honours?! We have always intended, and still intend, to give it our very best shot!"

The Excite team's preparations and training programme are ongoing at the present time and the next significant target is to participate in several off-road rallies in 2012 to help with the car's development and to build up time in the new vehicle before taking on the Dakar Rally in 2013.

Excite Rallye Raid is currently in partnership talks with several global brands, but the team would love to be backed by a British sponsor to round off the all-British package.

All in all, it's a very exciting time for Team Excite!

Notes:

The Dakar Rally
The Dakar Rally is internationally recognised as the world's most challenging motorsport event, followed by millions globally on TV and throughout the media.

On the event, hundreds of competitors cover in excess of 9,000 km in 14 days over some of the most hostile environmental conditions found anywhere in the world.

Many of the leading vehicle manufacturers enter the event as it is a unique opportunity to market their products to a global audience. Equally, a large number of entries come from private, entrepreneurial teams who are driven to compete in this prestigious event.

Driver profiles: Martin Rowe, Andrew Coley and John Hardy

Martin Rowe
Ex British, Chinese and World Rally Championship winning driver, Martin Rowe, brings a wealth of success and experience only comparable to a few other �works' FIA Off Road Championship/Dakar teams. Martin's list of achievements is impressive, with works drives for Peugeot, Renault, Ford and Porsche. Plus testing and development roles within both the Ford and Subaru works teams just add to his profile.

Career highlights:
1991 Manx Stage Rally Champion
1992 British 1.6 Peugeot Challenge Champion
1994 British Gp N Champion
1998 British Rally Champion
2001 British Formula Rally Champion
2002 6th World Production cup
2003 World Production Cup Champion
2004 Driver coaching/various testing roles
2005 Drove in 4 rounds of the China Rally Championship winning 2 rounds with Team KST Ralliart China.
2006 Chinese Rally Champions with Team KST Ralliart China.
Represented Porsche Cars GB in the Transsyberia Rallye.
2011 / 2012 / 2013 Representing Excite Rallye Raid.

Andrew Coley
A National champion rally driver, Andrew has experience on tar, gravel, snow, ice and sand dunes! Andrew has over ten years' experience in the motorsport industry, providing TV Commentary and presenting on major international channels / motorsport events including Eurosport (Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC), The Race of Champions, Asian Le Mans Series and FiA European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) and Rally Raid amongst others) and Superleague Formula. He has hosted and presented at events on behalf of several major vehicle manufacturers and has acted as Sponsor Host for the SEAT team in the British Touring Car Championship. In addition, he has provided specialised vehicle product training for the car industry and worked on industry DVDs.

Career highlights
1998 Started rallying, participating in 3 events, with 3 mechanical retirements! (He knew nothing about cars but learnt fast!).
1999 Won SE region tar championship 1600 class.
2000 Selected by the UK MSA to be one of 20 young drivers on the �Fit to be Champion' scheme (the first MSA elite scheme) and also entered the Roger Clark Award.
2001 Roger Clark Award manager Richard Stoodley secured Andrew a drive with 22 Motorsport (meeting John Hardy on the same team) in the ANCRO National Championship. Andrew finished 2nd in class A7 at the end of his first year in forests.
2002 - 2004 testing for 22 Motorsport, working as a motorsport instructor.
2005 Andrew was selected from 200 European entries to represent the UK in the final 10, for the Dakar Challenge, a competition run by Eurosport, NISMO and BFGoodrich to win a drive on the Dakar Rally. The Semi finals were held at Clermont Ferrand in France, Michelin's test venue. Made the final 5, knocking out JWRC regulars, despite not competing for several years. Final was in Morocco, where Andrew finished a very close 2nd to the Ford WRC team's test driver. Stayed in Morocco for a week to complete NISMO's Dakar training programme and was appointed reserve driver for Dakar 2006.
2007 Andrew could resist the draw of rallying no more, bought a 206 Cup Car, returned to the forests and entered 2 events to get back up to speed.
2008 Entered the MSA National Gravel Rally Championship and won class A6 after a season long battle with a Super1600 car.
2009 Change of career from motorsport instruction to motorsport commentary and TV / event presenting. Currently commentating on IRC Rally and Superleague Formula. Andrew has featured on ESPN, Eurosport, Motors and Bloomberg as a commentator. He has also appeared on BBC3, GMTV, Channel 5, Sky Sports and Eurosport during his rally career.
2011 / 2012 / 2013 Representing Excite Rallye Raid.

John Hardy
With over 20 years' British National Rally Championship experience behind him, John Hardy will provide reliable and highly important support to both Martin and Andrew, while being equally competitive. John has also spent many years working as a rally driving instructor, helping many British Championship drivers with car setup and driver training.

Career Highlights
1988 John took part in his first Rally as a co-driver at Festival Rally Exeter, aged 16.
1989 1st National event as co-driver in the Mazda Winter Rally.
1991 Started driving Auto cross and Rally.
1993 1st National Rally as a Driver.
1994 ACSMC Rounds - John achieved a number of top 3 finishes in class.
1999 Testing in EVO 6 for K sport and ACSMC Events.
2000 Landed a drive with K-Sport on Rallye Sunseeker in a Evo 6. This was John's first rally in 4wd turbo car. John's co-driver was a journalist. John was placed 19th overall.
2001 Drove for 22 Motorsport in a Seat Cupra Sport, with Andrew Coley as team mate.
2003 British National Rally Championship competitor. Came 3rd in class in the championship. Worked at a rally school.
2004 Competed in several National rallies and worked at the rally school at Castle Combe.
2005 Drove the 2CR FM rally car with a DJ as co-driver.
2006 Started thinking about doing the Dakar and established Excite team, recruiting a solid core of drivers, co-drivers, motorsport mechanics and support staff.
2009 Worked with TV guys on Rallye Sunseeker.
2010 / 2011 / 2012 / 2013 Representing Excite Rallye Raid.

The Car
RaBe Race Cars D4 WN5 - Built for T3 world championship
Engine: BMW diesel N57 3.0 ltr 275 Hp 650Nm with FIA restrictor.
Transmission: ZF 6 speed / two speed transfer case.
Dampers: 8 x Reiger coil overs.
Wheels: Compomotive Atacama RallyRaid wheel 16".
Tyres: BF Goodrich desert race G series.
Fuel Tank: 260 Litre.
Length: 3.8 m.
Width: 2.0 m.
Height: 1.9 m.
Wheel Base: 2.8 m.
Weight: 1900 Kg.

Frankfurt Motor Show: Jaguar C-X16 concept?Video?

Jaguar is set to unveil its C-X16 coupe at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 putting out 376 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, the C-X16 concept takes Jaguar's great heritage of supercharging into the next century with the addition of a "Push to Pass" hybrid system controlled through a steering wheel-mounted button.

It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission which has an integrated electric motor that contributes an additional boost of 95 PS (70 kW / 94 hp) and 173 lb-ft (235 Nm) of torque.

This enables the svelte coupe to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).




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Press Release

Jaguar Opens Frankfurt Motor Show With The C-X16 Concept Car

Excitement on the eve of the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show gained momentum as the Jaguar C-X16 production concept car made its public debut at the Palais Thurn und Taxis, Frankfurt.

Tracing the Jaguar sporting lineage through the years, 50 stunning heritage vehicles drove through the city of Frankfurt including XK120's, C types, D types and E-types. Starting at the Villa Kennedy in the early afternoon, the convoy passed key locations in Frankfurt and finished at the Palais Thurn und Taxis at 16:00 where Jaguar's vision of future sports cars made its debut to the world's media.

Driving a D-type, Frank Klaas, Global Head of Communications for Jaguar Land Rover commented "What better way to start the motor show than by driving such a selection of beautiful sporting vehicles through Frankfurt, culminating with the global debut of the future of Jaguar sports cars - the C-X16."

Frankfurt debuts: Rimac Concept_One?Video?

Rimac Automobili has officially unveiled the Concept_One, which will debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

This electric supercar weighs in at 3,637 lbs and produces 1,088-hp. That allows the Rimac Concept_One to go from 0 to 62 mph in 2.8 seconds with a top speed of 190 mph. On a full charge, the Concept_One is capable of driving up to 373 mph.

Each wheel can accelerate or decelerate independently hundreds of times per second. Sophisticated ECUs control each of the power system, using the input of precise sensors placed all over the car.

To create a luxurious interior, Rimac enlisted Vilner and a group of former Pininfarina employees. The end result is pretty impressive as the cabin is elegantly appointed with premium leather, carbon fiber trim, a digital instrument cluster and an advanced infotainment system.





Press Release

The Concept_One world debut at Frankfurt Motor Show

FRANKFURT, September 13th, 2011. - Rimac Automobili is unveiling the world's first electric supercar - the Concept_One.

The Concept_One is an exceptional supercar with a new propulsion concept. With a curb weight of 1650 kg, and 1088 HP, the Concept_One can reach 100 km/h from a standstill in 2.8 seconds and continue to accelerate to the limit of 305 km/h. 92kWh of energy in the Battery Modules delivers enough juice"for up to 600 km of range.

Rimac Automobili developed a unique powertrain which is divided into four sub-systems, each consisting of one motor, inverter and reduction gearbox. Each of those systems drives one wheel, working completely independent one from the other. It's called All Wheel Torque Vectoring and it allows a new approach to vehicle dynamics. Mate Rimac, the CEO of Rimac Automobili says: "I believe that the electric motor is a much better machine compared to the ICE, in almost all aspects, especially for a sports car."
The carbon-fibre body is designed by Adriano Mudri: �Exploring the labyrinth of creativity, it was obvious at an early stage that the design had to be simple and clear with a lot of sporty elegance to easily catch up with its competitors in this power & exclusivity class."

The interior is designed by a team of former Pininfarina employees, led by Mr. Goran Popovi?. After the Rimac Automobili engineering team finished the development and prototyping of the interior parts, the leather-specialist Vilner stepped-in. The result is a high-tech-supercar interior which can be both appealing and pleasant to interact with, at the same time. Special attention has been paid to the infotainment system and gadgets like head-up-displays and soft-close doors which had to match the propulsion technology in its advancement.

Rimac Automobili is a young company which develops and produces high performance electric vehicles, drive trains and battery system. This all began when the founder of Rimac Automobili, Mate Rimac, converted his old BMW to a race EV. He explored the technology by improving every part and began to team-up with experts from different fields in order to develop the next generation supercar. The old BMW is now officially homologated as a "Rimac Automobili e-M3"and is used as a test mule for battery technologies, battery management, propulsion systems and latest in-house developments. Describing their beginnings Mate Rimac points out: "Our first car evolved in a short period of time into a project that didn't give a final result - instead it was a start, the start of the world's first electric hyper car - the Concept _One". A group of 20 multi-talented engineers and designers settled in Croatia near Zagreb and are making something new and revolutionary. The production of the first model, the Concept_One, is limited to 88 units, starting with deliveries in 2013.