This innovative and competitively priced vehicle will make its public debut at the Food & Drink Expo (stand P210, NEC, March 21 – 24).  Based on the Berlingo 1000 1.6HDi 90hp platform cab, the Panino is set to become Jiffy Trucks’ best-selling model, taking over the number one position from it’s highly successful Berlingo First based Fresco catering vehicle.

The financial and operational benefits of the Jiffy Panino are a product of the unique Berlingo platform cab, the only compact LCV of this configuration available in the UK.  As such, the Berlingo platform cab enables Jiffy Trucks to produce, within a compact road footprint, the Panino body, which has high capacity ambience as well as heated and chilled food/drink compartments – allowing it to meet a wide range of mobile catering requirements from servicing business customers to sporting and other public events.

The Panino’s stainless steel space-framed body structure is completely insulated for optimum thermal performance.  Externally, the Panino body has easy-clean, mirror-finish, ‘quilted-effect’ stainless steel panelling, while internally, high-specification, food-safe, white finish GRP panelling is used.  For professional appearance and low maintenance the Panino’s oven and counters are surfaced with high specification stainless steel for optimum hygiene and long-life.  New features introduced with the Panino include double-glazed warming and chiller cabinets to raise thermal efficiency levels. 

“Priced from just £22,995 + VAT, the new Panino enables Jiffy Trucks to provide a versatile and competitively-priced unit.  “It will appeal to all sectors of the mobile catering business, from new businesses to large, established companies.  In tough economic times we can help businesses make the most of this versatile way of selling food and drinks and really maximise their profitability,” comments John Briggs, Jiffy Trucks’ operations manager.

Jiffy Trucks is now developing a larger mobile catering body for the Citroën Dispatch platform cab to complement the Berlingo-based Panino.  As the UK’s largest manufacturer of mobile catering vehicles the company offers full aftersales support for its mobile catering vehicles.

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All Ford owners taking part have an opportunity to enter the Pride of Ownership competition with the winner receiving a £100 cash prize and a Beaulieu trophy. The winner will be one of twenty vehicles chosen by the judging panel to go on display in the Main Arena and take part in a cavalcade.

For entrants arriving on the day in their Ford and joining the event on the Beaulieu Parkland, individual prices are adult £10 and child £5. To book in advance or for more information about group or club entry and concession prices telephone 01590 612888. All other entries will be via Beaulieu main reception at normal admission prices.

For all enquires on Ford related trade stands, telephone 01590 614614.

Entry into the Beaulieu Parkland with your Ford is from 8.30am – the Brabazon Restaurant will be open for bacon rolls, cakes, teas and coffees.

Admission to the event includes entry to the whole Beaulieu attraction; the National Motor Museum and World of Top Gear, Palace House and gardens and Beaulieu Abbey.

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Racers designed and built by a French firm with no history of sports car racing manufacture to contest the various versions of the World Sports Car Championship between 1966 and 1974. This series of cars started life with the 2-litre BRM engine before progressing to the Ford V8, and subsequently Matra’s own sonorous V12 from its then current Grand Prix car.

The book includes the development and race history, with a full list of all race events and individual chassis numbers of Matra cars.

The late 1960s and early 1970s were a significant era in the world of international sports car racing. As the motor racing rule-making body moved back and forth between cars that less and less resembled road going vehicles, prototype sports car racing captured the imagination of manufacturers, teams and fans alike. Porsche vs. Ferrari vs. Alfa Romeo vs. Matra provided some of the best racing for sports cars ever witnessed, and by 1973, the Matra prototype – little more than a Grand Prix car with full bodywork – was dominating the scene. That period has always been viewed as one of the great eras in sports car racing, when all the great Grand Prix drivers were fully active in sports car as well as GP/F1 machines.

This carefully-researched book, which provides the complete story of a great time, and a great make, in motorsport is now available from bookshops or from www.velocebooks.com

Matra sports cars– MS620, 630, 650, 660 & 670 – 1966 to 1974
By Ed McDonough
ISBN 9781845842611
UPC 636847042615
Available now.
UK ￡15.99, USA $29.95

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Inspired by the ultra-high-performance IS F, the IS range has been extended with a new F-Sport grade that focuses on highly desirable sports styling features.

New F-Sport grade
The new F-Sport grade, available for both IS 250 and 220d models, takes its cue from the high impact styling of the IS F and is positioned in the IS line-up between the established SE-I and SE-L models.

The dedicated F-Sport exterior features include lowered suspension (IS 250 only), exclusive 18-inch wheels and an IS F-style front grille and rear bootlid spoiler. In the cabin there are aluminium sports pedals, IS F-style sports seats, steering wheel and (on the IS 250 automatic) gear lever. The seats are finished in a combination of Alcantara upholstery with leather side bolsters.

A black-on-black interior colour scheme is complimented by a black headlining and grey stitching detail on the front seats and steering wheel.

F-Sport models share a number of premium equipment features with SE-L grade, including rain-sensing wipers, HID headlights with AFS, 13-speaker audio system and memory settings for the front seats and door mirrors.

Navigation and audio systems

Lexus has developed one of the most accurate and fast-responding navigation systems on the market. Using a 40GB hard disc drive (HDD), it provides Europe-wide coverage and is able to gather live local traffic intelligence in each country to help plot the most efficient route, wherever you may be.

A further benefit of the HDD system is its “sound library” function. Up to 10GB of disc space is available for owners to store audio tracks from CD – room enough for about 2,000 songs.

The touch-screen, full-map system is available as an option on SE and SE-I models as part of package that also includes a rear park assist monitor.

For F-Sport and SE-L versions of IS, it is included in the optional Multimedia Package, together with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System and the rear park assist monitor.

All Lexus IS audio systems can be upgraded to receive DAB digital broadcasts and are equipped as standard with USB and audio jack plug connection for fully controlled use of portable music players, and Bluetooth with an audio streaming function.

The Mark Levinson audio package now features a “sound library” function, using the navigation system’s HDD to transfer and store music files from CD up to 10GB capacity.

Larger wheels for SE grade
Lexus IS 250 SE and 220d SE have been given more street appeal for 2010 with 10-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels fitted as standard, in place of the previous 16-inch rims.

Improved fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions
The revisions made to the IS 250 for the 2010 model year have yielded improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. With manual transmission, combined cycle economy is now 29.1mpg, compared to 28.8mpg for the 2009 model; the new figure for the automatic is 31.7mpg  (from 31.0mpg). CO2 emissions have fallen from 231 to 227g/km for the manual and 214 to 209g/km for the automatic.

Lexus IS prices, insurance and VED

Option prices

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Fiat Automobiles logged a CO2 average of just 127.8 g/km, compared with 133.7 g/km in 2009’s results. This puts it ahead of Toyota(130.1 g/km), Peugeot (133.6 g/km), Renault (137.5 g/km), Citroen (137.9 g/km), Ford (140.0 g/km), Opel/Vauxhall (148.9 g/km), Volkswagen (150.4 g/km), Audi (160.9 g/km) and Mercedes (176.4 g/km).

Fiat also ranked first among the motor groups (131.0 g/km), ahead of Toyota, PSA, Renault and Hyundai.

The statistics show the average emissions figure for every vehicle Fiat sold in Europe in 2009, and also means that Fiat has beaten the European average target of 130 g/km five years ahead of its 2015 implementation.

This eco-friendly achievement is the result of a long-term Fiat strategy based on a two-pronged approach: implementing technological solutions aimed at containing consumption and emissions, and raising the awareness of motorists to spur a more responsible, eco-compatible use of their cars.

Unique engines, such as the new 900cc, 95 g/km Twin-Air two-cylinder and second-generation 1.3 MultiJet engines delivering power of up to 95hp, are part of that strategy. Raising awareness is the second part of the policy – implemented by Fiat’s eco:Drive the in-car software which analyses driver behaviour and suggests ways to improve it.

“These are important figures as they show not just the environmental impact of one or two of our cars, but the whole range,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. That means that every vehicle we sell is making its own contribution to emissions cutting and is playing its part in making Europe a cleaner place in which to live.”

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Consisting of a specially premapped version of the renowned piggy back ECU, the Unichip enables subtle electronic tweaks to the Impreza’s fuelling and boost settings to enhance all round performance without compromising on economy or reliability.

Designed as a DIY fitment thanks to its high quality plug and play ‘U-Connect’ wiring loom, the Unichip can be fitted (and removed) in minutes. It is electronically ‘invisible’ to main dealers during servicing and can only be remapped by a Unichip agent.

Extensive rolling road testing has proven that the ‘Unichipped’ 2.0 Impreza Diesel gains an impressive 17bhp and 36lb.ft of torque over the standard car, producing a total of 168bhp allied to a mighty 292lb.ft of torque at just 2500rpm.

This extra performance offers significantly improved driver enjoyment and effortless overtaking, making every journey – long or short – a real pleasure. But this extra performance doesn’t impact on the Impreza’s thirst, as real world testing has proven that economy is unaffected by the Unichip U-Connect package, with drivers reporting a 5-10% consumption improvement compared to standard.

Priced at just £465.30 including VAT @ 17.5% and carrying part number PPSUB11.0, the Unichip U-Connect package is easily installed in minutes and is available now directly from Unichip Europe.

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This August the Angelic Bulldog team travels to Bonneville, where it is hoping to smash the 400mph barrier and bring the motorcycle Land Speed Record back to the UK for the first time since 1937. The current record of 360.913mph over a kilometre was set in 2008 by American Rocky Robinson riding his machine, named Ack-Attack.

Using a six and a half-metre long ‘streamliner’ powered by a 2.3-litre supercharged 700-horsepower engine, Angelic Bulldog project boss and rider Gabriel Uttley is hoping to bring the crown back to these shores. It’ll be displayed at Race Retro, giving enthusiasts a chance to get a glance of this rapid two-wheeler.

For rapid racing bikes the International Historic Racing Organisation is serving up four treats from its recently-created IHRO Class 2, which targets pre-1972 multi-cylinder Grand Prix machines and replicas. Four bikes are on display including a Yamaha 350 and a Konig 500, which used a two-stroke motorboat engine!

The internationally-acclaimed Sammy Miller Museum is showing two Nortons – a 1956 Model F 350 and a 1960 350cc Lowboy. Both demonstrate Norton’s technical foresight, the Model F featuring a five-speed gearbox while the frame carried the engine oil. The Lowboy features a lowered-frame design, which aimed to minimalise wind drag, but wasn’t the success it was hoped to be.

Race Retro will also pay tribute to 60 years of Norton with a stunning display of motorcycles as well as having famous racers from the past fifty years on hand to talk about the bikes’ finest hour with Race Retro motorcycle MC Steve Parrish.

And if you are looking to buy, H&H Auctions will have a private collection of 50 motorcycles up for grabs including rare Nortons and an early Harley Davidson.

Also making a more than welcome return is the Ken Fox Troupe Wall of Death, who brings another side of motorcycling to Race Retro. Using Indian and early Honda twins, Ken and his riders continue to defy the force of gravity.

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The Allard dragster was the brainchild of South London car-maker Sydney Allard, who had made his name building sports cars powered by American Ford and Cadillac V8 engines during the 1950s. By the early ‘60s drag racing had a massive following in the USA and it was inevitable the sport would cross the pond.

Allard recognized this and started planning the car that’s on show in 1960. He used a Chrysler Hemi V8 fitted with a GMC supercharger, clothed in a lightweight, streamlined body. 

The car, currently on display at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, Hampshire, is being restored, and the Allard Chrysler Action Group chairman Brian Taylor, who recently penned the book ‘Crazy Horses: The History of British Drag Racing’ will be on hand to talk about the car’s progress.

Making its debut at Race Retro is a Fiat Topolino-bodied competition altered dragster, fresh from its winter rebuild. It updates the competition altered ‘wars’ of the 1960s, which were the biggest crowd-pleasers at dragstrips across the USA, and now in the UK too.

First pounding the quarter mile in 1979 the car, now named ‘Go Hard or Go Home’, uses a 360 cubic inch (5900cc) engine that has been rebuilt by Team Gridlock, and runs with the Wild Bunch nostalgia drag racing club.

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Luti will be racing in the MG Trophy Championship and will also make an appearance in his popular ZT 520 at MGLive! at Silverstone in June, while Lunar Racing plan to compete in the Peter Best Insurance and the Britcar Production championships.

With parts support from MG Rover parts specialist XPart, the teams are all set for a good season’s racing.

After a productive winter development period, Paul Luti and his team, Dreadnought Racing, have shaved an impressive 20kg from the total weight of his MG TF LE500, and have also fitted a sophisticated new data logging system to the car, which allows them to fine tune to each circuit by measuring everything from steering angle to the movement of each suspension damper. Lunar Racing is upgrading the engine of its Britcar ZS entry to produce at least 260 bhp, and is also developing a new inlet manifold and throttle system to support the upgrade.

“Last year was a development year for the new TF in racing terms, as it was the first time the car had competed on track,” comments Paul Luti, Dreadnought Racing. “We’ve worked hard on the car’s set-up over the winter and are now at the same weight as the front running cars, which can’t be underestimated in such a closely fought championship. We aim to win even more races this year and will be pushing hard to win the overall championship.”

With two MG ZS 180s in the Pest Best Insurance Championship and another in the Britcar Production Championship, 2010 will be a busy season for Lunar Racing. With an all-student pit crew and race mechanics, team Lunar is the only under-18 race team in the country to compete in a professional race series. Team leader and teacher Paul Kneeshaw has high hopes for the 2010 season.

“We’re hoping for a top three finish for the MG ZS 180s in the Peter Best Championship and we also hope to build on our successful fifth place in the 2009 Britcar Production Championship, again finishing in the top three. The students have pulled out all the stops over the winter to prepare the cars for competition, and have worked particularly hard on the MG ZS engine upgrade.”

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X-PRIZE competition has a $10m prize fund courtesy of American car insurance company, Progressive Insurance, and consequently the criteria for successful vehicles are tough. Electric cars, such as the E-4 Coupe entered by Delta Motorsport, must be capable of 200 miles between charges and there will be tests of braking distances and usability. Crucially, the winning vehicle should be ready to be mass produced.

Delta Motorsport, based on the Silverstone Circuit Technology Park in Northamptonshire, has considerable experience in high technology engineering, motorsport and clean technology projects. It was founded in 2005 by Simon Dowson and Nick Carpenter – each of whom brought extensive automotive and motorsport design and engineering knowledge to the business.

Dowson says: “We became involved with the design of environmentally friendly vehicles because they share many of the engineering challenges associated with motorsport – maximum efficiency, light weight, good aerodynamics and so on. We worked with Oxford University on a lightweight, highly efficient electric motor and have completed several road haulage aerodynamic programmes to improve fuel efficiency.”

With the E-4 Coupe, Delta Motorsport has applied innovative thinking to the design and manufacture of a zero emission four-seater road car. Unlike most other electric vehicles, the performance of the E-4 Coupe matches that of conventional cars. It accelerates from zero to 60mph in under five seconds (comparable to a Porsche 911 Turbo) and has a maximum speed well in excess of 100mph.

The first example will be completed in April and has been made possible by support from the East Midlands Development Agency with a grant for research and development of £235,000. When Delta Motorsport was invited to a reception at 10 Downing Street as one of 100 companies embracing the low carbon economy, Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, said: “Our transition to a low carbon economy will be a key driver of our future economic prosperity. Delta Motorsport is at the forefront of this transformation. Their innovation and expertise demonstrates why the UK is one of best places in the world for low carbon business.”

As an indication of how tough the X-Prize competition is, none of the new generation of energy-efficient cars from major car manufacturers – such as the Ford Escape, Renault ZE or Nissan Leaf – will meet the criteria. This may explain why none of the original 41 teams and businesses entered are multi-nationals.

Nick Carpenter says: “Although there are some advantages in being part of a big company, there are many substantial disadvantages and large businesses just don’t have the flexibility to get on and complete a project in a short timescale.”

Indeed, Delta Motorsport will take the E-4 Coupe from CAD screen to production in just 3 months. The design judging rounds of the X-prize competition have taken place and the Delta Motorsport E-4 Coupe is one of the 28 entries which will take part in the safety inspections and dynamic evaluations at Michigan International Speedway at the end of April.

Further X-prize events will follow through the summer with entries being eliminated at each stage. The winners will be announced in September on the lawn of The White House, Washington D.C

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With fantastic new engines, a fresh face and a whole raft of technical refinements, both the Fabia supermini and Roomster MPV are even more attractive than ever. And being Skodas, both also represent great value for money, with the Fabia range starting at just £9,330 and the versatile Roomster from only £11,260 (all prices with 1st April Road Fund Licence inclusive).

The new look is most evident in the redesigned radiator grille and 3D-shaped headlamps, which have been considerably widened, highlighting the stronger horizontal line of the cars’ faces. This gives both Fabia and Roomster a more dynamic look, while losing none of the cars’ elegance and appeal.

Both cars also benefit from a new range of engines which includes four petrol and two diesel units, with power outputs ranging from 60bhp through to 105bhp. The vast majority of Skoda’s new engines benefit from direct fuel injection, while many feature turbocharging technology.

The result is a reduction of both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions as well as improved performance and refinement. Nowhere is this more apparent than when the new 1.2 TSI 105bhp petrol engine is combined with the optimised, two-clutch seven-speed DSG transmission. This delivers impressive power with excellent combined fuel consumption of 53.3 mpg and a CO2 emissions reduction of 56g/km to 124g/km (against the previous 1.6 105bhp Tiptronic). The four-cylinder 1.2 TSI engine is available in two power levels – 85 bhp and 105bhp. Both of these will also be available with a five-speed manual transmission.

All engines comply with EU5 emissions standards, with both 1.6 CR TDI units emitting less than 110g/km CO2.

Both Fabia and Roomster are available in S, SE and Scout specifications, while the Fabia line up also features Elegance trim level.

Fabia hatchback prices – all prices shown with 1st April Road Fund Licence inclusive.

Fabia Estate prices – all prices shown with 1^st April Road Fund Licence inclusive.

Roomster prices – all prices shown with 1^st April Road Fund Licence inclusive.

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Race 1 in a rain-soaked track in Curitiba was a Chevrolet show, with the three Cruzes of Yvan Muller, Rob Huff and Alain Menu dominating from the start and signing an impressive triple victory. In race 2, despite the reversed grid, the Cruzes were again able to repeat a trio, this time in 3rd, 4th and 5th positions, with a different order: Menu, Muller and Huff, respectively.

Curitiba marked a great team achievement, with the Cruze impressing both for its performance level and its reliability. The team is leaving Brazil as leader in both championships, a position which is both the best reward for the hard work done by the entire team and a wonderful start to 2010. 

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The two cars won Best Production and Best Concept categories respectively of the Car Design of the Year Awards. The Awards result from a poll of the readers of Car Design News, the leading global online resource for the professional design community.  They are particularly respected in the design community as accolades from peers, and were chosen from shortlists of the best designs from 2009 as compiled by the senior Editors of Car Design News.

The Awards were presented at the Car Design Night event at La Sip nightclub in Geneva last week, on the first evening of the motor show.

Accepting the award for the beautiful Rapide sedan, Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman thanked the designers who voted for the vehicle “on behalf of a team that is very passionate about the brand”.

The Rapide’s elegant, sporting proportions are combined with emotional surfaces and exquisite detailing, and it narrowly edged out the Ferrari 458 Italia to first place in the production category. Of the ten cars on the shortlist, the Porsche Panamera was the least favourite among the designers who voted.

The Cadillac Converj concept was by GM’s Advanced Design Studio in Europe under then Design Director Simon Cox. Accepting the award, Malcolm Ward, Exterior Chief Designer for mid-size cars at GM Europe, emphasised the global nature of today’s design teams by being “very proud to receive this on behalf of the team and I know the team in Detroit are also very proud to receive it”.

The Converj concept introduced a cab-forward stance and softened Cadillac’s now iconic angular design aesthetic, while the interior featured environmentally sustainable and renewable materials.

Voting was again close, and the Converj had a narrow lead over the Infiniti Essence concept.  Least favoured from the 10-car shortlist was the Citroën Revolte.

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Some info about the Rover 110 from RoverP4.com (©B.Kensett 1999)

The Rover 110 was produced from 1962 to 1964, during this period 1534 cars were built. The model replaced the Rover 100 and incorporated the following basic differences:
The engine was increased in power by the introduction of the “Weslake” head and larger bore carburettor initially developed to increase performance of the Rover 3 litre (P5). Power was 123 bhp giving a top speed in excess of 100 mph. Fuel consumption was 18 – 23 mpg.

Many other 3 litre components were also used, for example the instruments and wheel discs. Initially the doors of the 110 were manufactured in aluminium alloy but were changed early in the production run to steel.

Overdrive on top gear was standard but to avoid overstressing, which was possible with the increased performance, the kick down facilty was removed. The car is the most relaxed high speed cruiser of the P4 range and today can keep up a good pace in modern traffic except on winding roads where the handling is not up to modern standards due in part to the 60/40 front to rear weight distribution.

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CEP’s activities are supported by the German Government, which is investing around €2 billion to support the development of hydrogen fuel cell and electric vehicle technologies. Toyota will contribute five of its zero-emissions FCHV-adv hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to the programme in Germany by 2011.

Tadashi Arashima, President and CEO Toyota Motor Europe, said: “We firmly believe that fuel cell hybrid vehicles will play a major role in reducing emissions and achieving sustainable mobility, alongside petrol and plug-in hybrids and pure electric vehicles. These various applications of full hybrid technology will each play their role and co-exist in the future.

“Toyota aims at the commercialization of fuel cell vehicles around 2015. To achieve this goal a hydrogen charging infrastructure is necessary, so close tie-ups between car manufacturers and infrastructure companies are of vital importance. ”

Other CEP partners are setting up “CO2-free” and hydrogen filling stations at key locations between Berlin and Hamburg and the partnership is also campaigning to increase the proportion of hydrogen fuel produced from renewable sources to 50 per cent.

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Mr. K.C. Hu, CEO of LUXGEN pointed out, “Taiwan’s IT industry has been highly acknowledged around the world, and we aspire to capitalize on that strength as an automaker and promote a Taiwanese auto brand on the global stage.”

LUXGEN vehicles are programmed to ‘Think Ahead’ for their consumers, with SMART technology designed by Taiwanese mobile manufacturer HTC to pre-empt road conditions and potential hazards. All LUXGEN vehicles features a state of the art onboard computer system, dubbed ‘Think +’, which, for the first time ever, combines HTC smart technology and Windows CE Automotive Interface, ‘Think+’ boasts six main attractive features, including video and audio entertainment, telecommunication, GPS navigation, safety alerts, car-owner exclusive applications and system settings.

Additionally, the vehicles also feature: Eagle View+ (a 360 degree surveillance camera), Night Vision+ (a highly sensitive night visual aid system), Side View+ and LDWS+ (Lane Departure Warning System). Mr. Peter Chou, Chief Executive Officer of HTC said: “HTC is proud to partner with LUXGEN to create a new generation of intelligent vehicles. We have worked with LUXGEN to develop a sophisticated onboard program designed to ‘think ahead’ for drivers, creating a new level of road safety.”

The LUXGEN brand was established by the Yulon Group to merge Taiwan’s highly advanced auto and information technology industries to create a new generation of forward thinking, environmentally sustainable ‘intelligent’ vehicles. “IT+AUTO+ET”, its core branding message, is what differentiates LUXGEN and best illustrates Taiwan’s R&D strength in the global market.

LUXGEN is targeting emerging markets around the world including the Middle East, Central America, Russia, China and South East Asia. Among them, LUXGEN has chosen to focus on the GCC states as its initial launch platform and has already signed letters of intent with a number of dealers in the region.

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Available to download free-of-charge from Apple’s App Store, Citroën’s DS3 app uses an intelligent ‘EGO Configurator’ that guides users through a personalised questionnaire to find the DS3 that most suits their personality and lifestyle.

With touch-sensitive options to change the colour or patterns on the roof, bodywork, wheels and mirrors, the DS3 app showcases Citroën’s creative use of technology and invites iPhone® & iPod® Touch owners to use their own creativity to embrace Citroën’s forward-thinking attitudes in both design and style.

When users are satisfied with their personalised DS3 configuration, the application also allows them to request an e-brochure, book a test drive and locate their nearest Citroën dealer.

In addition to the DS3 customisation options, the app also provides users with multi-media content and interactive features, including access to ‘DS3 Mag’ – a regularly updated publication packed with the latest news and features from the worlds of fashion, design and lifestyle.

To download the app, search for ‘Citroën DS3’ from the App Store

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Responding to a brief by GQ’s editor, Dylan Jones, Citroën’s team, headed by British designer – and the man responsible for the new Citroën DS3 – Mark Lloyd, took a new look at the GT theme and integrated it with a typical Citroën design approach bringing GQbyCITROËN from design outline to concept reality.

GQbyCITROËN combines classically sophisticated features and contemporary styling with a sculpted front end, rounded rear, strong body contours and sleek concave rear windscreen – a signature Citroën design.

The car’s cabin is accessed by rear coach doors and reveals a spacious, comfortable and futuristic cabin. Completing the car’s bespoke styling, the interior detailing and upholstery selections were provided by Patrick Grant, the Creative Director of prestigious Savile Row tailors, E.Tautz, who commented: “Savile Row is all about balance and Tautz’s simple military inspired interior is the perfect counterpoint to the Gallic flair of the exterior.”

Dylan Jones commented: “I wanted something practical, something cool, and something idiosyncratic – i.e. something surprising that didn’t just look like a concept car. The GQ car needed to have the ‘want’ factor, but it also needed to look, feel and ‘drive’ like the sort of car no sane man could choose to ignore. We think it looks very very special.”

Dynamic performance and environmental responsibility were also key requirements for the project. The GQbyCITROËN concept car is powered by a plug-in Hybrid with a 1,598cc, 4-cylinder direct injection petrol engine offering a sporty 0-60mph time of just 4.5seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and CO2 emissions of just 80g/km.

Mark Lloyd, Chief Designer of Citroën’s International Projects added: “Where this car works so well with GQ is that it fits with the current attitudes of conspicuous consumption. It is understated rather than in-your-face and sleek rather than too macho. With the skills of a Savile Row tailor on the car’s interior we have also achieved that bespoke, fitted feel, both inside and out.

“For me, the car that has always represented the pinnacle of automotive excellence and refinement is the GT – the Grand Tourer. It is not the all-out sports car, rather it is something gentlemanly, it has performance and it is for travelling, not racing. We wanted to create something that, like GQ, was aspirational, but also retained the classic automotive ideals. We didn’t want a car for the mass market. We wanted a car for GQ.’”

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Driver-oriented concept

The FT-86 is designed to deliver simple, dynamic power with environmental responsibility. It is an entirely driver-orientated car, engineered to capture the intrinsic joy of driving through precise, instantaneous responses to even the smallest throttle and steering inputs.

Rather than use a heavy, large displacement engine for performance, it is equipped with a free-revving 2.0-litre petrol unit with a six-speed manual gearbox with compact dimensions, light weight and a low centre gravity. Deployed in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive format, this powertrain delivers lively, accessible performance with engaging dynamic abilities and maximum driving pleasure.

Functional Beauty

Toyota’s ED2 European design and development centre dubs the styling of the FT-86 “Functional Beauty”, the classic sports car form having been generated entirely within the constraints of aerodynamics and function.

The low, highly aerodynamic bodyshell is stretched tight over the engineering hard points, and, measuring 4,160mm long overall, the bodywork has been rendered as compact as possible.

The cockpit is purely functional and ergonomically efficient, with widespread use of sporting, ultra-lightweight components and finishes that support the car’s balanced weight distribution and power to weight ratio.

Rather than treating the 2+2 interior design as a stylised addition to the cabin framework, a thin, tight-fitting skin has been applied to the essential cockpit components, as can be seen in the treatment of the dashboard and seat upholstery

The FT-86 measures 4,160mm long, 1,760mm wide and 1,260mm tall, with a 2,570mm wheelbase. It rides on 19-inch wheels shod with 225/40R19 tyres.

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Customers can now order a new two-door Wrangler or four-door Wrangler Unlimited in a number of colour, trim and engine combinations, and with a range of extras including a 3.73 axle ratio for rock crawling, electronic front sway bar disconnect and an electronic locking rear axle.

Beyond extreme capability, Jeep Wrangler offers a combination of outstanding safety and convenience features, interior space, versatility and comfort, on-road refinement, and open-air fun as the only true 4×4 convertible.

The two-door Jeep Wrangler remains true to its heritage as the original, extreme fun-and-freedom machine and is the only 4×4 with multiple open-air options. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the only four-door open-air SUV on the market with room for five adult passengers and is extremely popular with customers who want a Jeep Wrangler, and require additional space and versatility.

The two-door Jeep Wrangler and long-wheelbase four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited range starts from just £19,650 and is powered by a 2.8 diesel engine or 3.8 V6 petrol engine.

Jeep Wrangler Pricing (OTR):

Federico Goretti, Managing Director of Chrysler UK Ltd, said: “Being able to offer a range of factory-fitted options that make the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited even more capable will delight enthusiasts in the UK.

“Customers have the opportunity to order a Jeep built to their exact requirements. With a choice of nine paint colours, three trim levels, two engine ranges and a long list of options to select from, customers can now create their ideal Wrangler.”

The Jeep Wrangler recently won the coveted title of ‘Extreme 4×4 of the Year 2010’ in 4×4 Magazine’s annual awards ceremony. The judges praised the Wrangler for its long list of safety specifications and standard features including driver and front passenger air bags, ABS, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill Start Assist, front fog lamps, alarm and immobiliser, traction control and power windows. Jeep’s legendary off-road ability and its economical diesel engine also rated highly.

Jeep Wrangler’s standard Freedom Top®, a three-piece modular hard top, features three panels – left and right front-passenger panels and a rear panel – providing more options for open-air driving. The hard top may be completely removed for a complete open-air experience.

All Jeep Wrangler models are covered by the comprehensive Jeep warranty scheme, which provides a three-year/60,000 mile mechanical warranty, seven-year anti-corrosion warranty and one-year European roadside assistance.

www.jeep.co.uk

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The VFR1200F’s youngest customer so far is in their twenties, with the oldest just a few months off his seventieth birthday. All three colours – Seal Silver Metallic, Candy Prominence Red and Pearl Sunbeam White – are proving equally popular and, with machines part-exchanged against the VFR spanning a wide range of makes and models, the VFR1200F’s proud new owners highlight that the appeal of this bike spans a wide range of riders.

A new fixed price servicing plan for the VFR1200F is also now available and proving popular among customers. With scheduled servicing of 8,000 miles or annually, this new three year package covers the first four services* (600, 8,000, 16,000 and 24,000 miles) for a one-off payment of just £575, and customers can take their VFR1200F to any official Honda dealer for servicing. This not only creates impressive cost savings and ease for ongoing servicing, but also peace of mind provided by a full dealer service history and stronger second hand value for the machine. The service plan is also transferrable to another owner should the bike be sold.

The majority of new VFR1200F customers opted to wait until 1 March to register their machines in order to benefit from the latest ’10 registration plate. But many also couldn’t wait even a few weeks for their awesome purchase and opted to take delivery in February, with one customer who had pre-ordered a VFR, seeing it for the first time at the launch event and riding it away that evening!

Steve Martindale, General Manager of Honda (UK) Motorcycles commented, “The customer and dealer research that went into the development of the VFR1200F across Europe was extensive, so we had confidence that this bike would really match what customers are looking for in a great all-round road bike across performance, handling, quality, technology and looks. The initial reactions during the launch weekend were incredibly positive, both about the styling of the VFR and also from the test rides, and selling over 50 in the first two weeks since launch is testament to what a great bike it is. The current low rate and affordable finance offer available on the VFR, coupled with the new fixed price service plan, all further add to making this bike so attractive to a wide range of riders.”

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The one-make series is the British version of Europe’s highly successful International Trofeo Cup which had a superb 2009 season at some of the continent’s legendary circuits such as Valencia, Brno and Imola. Now the potent new 500 Assetto Corse race cars will feature in top meetings at Britain’s best-known circuits starting next month (April).

The sports car’s 1368cc 16-valve turbocharged engine develops 190bhp at 6500rpm and torque of 300Nm at 3000rpm to give the Assetto Corse – which weighs just 970kg – sparkling performance on the track. A sporty body kit and 17-inch sports wheels with Michelin 20/61-17 tyres add to the car’s incredible performance, handling and stability.

“The Assetto Corse has shown on the track what we believed right from the start – that it would make a fabulous race car,” says Ivan Gibson, head of Abarth UK. “And now we have the mouth-watering prospect of seeing these cars battling it out in the UK.

“Race fans are going to love this series I am sure, and we are very much looking forward to an exciting first season here.”

The new Trofeo Abarth 500 GB series calendar is as follows:

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Specifically, Ford will launch two zero-emission full battery-electric vehicles including the Transit Connect Electric light commercial vehicle in 2011 followed by the Ford Focus Electric in 2012. Three other vehicles – two next-generation petrol hybrid-electric vehicles and a plug-in hybrid – will be introduced in 2013.

Ford’s global electrification strategy will deliver a suite of electrified vehicles to a variety of markets and build on the company’s overall vision of offering the widest possible range of technology solutions – instead of a single vehicle or technology – to improve fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions for customers around the world.

“We recognise that one technology does not work for all our customers,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “Our electrification strategy and plans include hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles to best meet our global customers’ needs. Leveraging our global platforms is also central to this strategy and allows us to build on our strong product line-up in the most customer-driven, affordable way.”

As Ford’s global product vision accelerates to ensure that all the company’s vehicles competing in global segments become common in Europe, North America and Asia, the resulting efficiencies will allow a global portfolio of environmentally friendly transportation solutions to be developed based around hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric and all-electric vehicles.

“Our goal is to provide consumers with access to significant fuel economy improvements and reduced CO2 emissions to meet their functional needs and without compromising their driving experience,” said John Fleming, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

“There is increasing interest among a number of customers in Europe for electrified vehicles and we are responding by stepping up our efforts to bring these models to the marketplace alongside our latest-generation, fuel-efficient petrol and diesel powered models,” Fleming added. “This is further evidence of how the ONE Ford global product vision is transforming our business. European consumers will not have to wait too long before they can choose from a range of electrified alternatives from Ford.”

Zero-Emission

The first models to be launched in Europe will be zero-emission, full-electric versions of two significant models in Ford’s global product portfolio.

The Focus Electric will be based on Ford’s next-generation Focus model and is one of at least ten vehicles that will be developed from the company’s new global C-car platform. Focus Electric will be introduced in the US and Canadain 2011, followed by Europein 2012.

The Ford Transit Connect Electric is a zero-emission, pure electric-powered version of the award-winning Transit Connect light commercial vehicle and goes on sale in North America later this year. Ford is aiming to make the Transit Connect Electric available for European customers from 2011.

Future Hybrids

While Ford has considerable experience in the North American market with full petrol-hybrid vehicles, the company is also planning to expand its presence in Europe with two all-new, next-generation hybrid passenger cars based on global platforms following in 2013.

In addition, European customers will be able to opt for a plug-in hybrid model, also coming in 2013.

“Thanks to the global economies of scale afforded to us by our ONE Ford initiative, I am delighted we are able to make the commitment now to deliver these models to customers in Europe, particularly as the demand for hybrid vehicles grows,” added John Fleming.

Further details of Ford’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will be revealed closer to launch.

Prototype Trials in Europe

Ford’s Product Development team is participating in two specific European trial initiatives to demonstrate the technology in real world driving conditions, and generate feedback to help develop further the Focus Electric and the Transit Connect Electric for market acceptance in Europe.

In the UK, a consortium of Ford, Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and Strathclyde University is preparing later this year to run a fleet of zero emissions prototype Ford Focus Battery Electric Vehicle prototypes, based around the current Focus model sold in Europe and using elements of the technology under development for the new Focus Electric.

The vehicles will be used for evaluation by both SSE and a number of fleet and private customers based in Hillingdon, Middlesex from mid-2010.

This new UK-based BEV demonstration fleet is being created partly with public funding from the UK Government’s Technology Strategy Board (TSB), which promotes innovative industry-led projects that reduce CO2. The BEV research programme aims to test the technology’s suitability and to gain greater insight into customer charging behaviour.

In Germany, Ford has recently announced its participation in the colognE-mobil project. This initiative will research the impact of electric vehicles on urban air quality, traffic safety and the electricity supply infrastructure. Scientists will then scale up the results to examine the true benefits an electric future could deliver for German cities.

Ford is one of four partners in the colognE-mobil project and will provide an early fleet of next-generation Focus Electric vehicles in late 2011.

The other partners are utility company RheinEnergie AG, the City of Cologne and the University of Duisburg-Essen. The colognE-mobil project is partly funded by the German Government and coordinated by the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

“These initiatives are a revolution for both the utility and automotive industries,” Fleming said. “Collaborating across sectors is essential to ensure customer focused products that provide the right value along with the readiness of the infrastructure. We need to work and learn together and Ford is very pleased to be a part of these important trials.”

Portfolio of Technologies

Ford Motor Company is committed to offering customers affordable environmental technologies in the vehicles they want and value.

To do this, Ford is introducing a range of global environmental technologies, including electrified vehicles that provide customers with more fuel-efficient models emitting fewer greenhouse gases without compromising safety, interior room or performance.

“Ford is focused on solutions that reach not just hundreds or thousands of cars, but millions of vehicles – because that is how Ford can truly make a difference,” Derrick Kuzak said.

Near- and longer-term advancements include the new Ford EcoBoost global engine family featuring turbocharging and direct injection technology, Ford’s ECOnetic range of low- CO2 technologies in Europe, and multi-speed transmissions such as Ford PowerShift.

Also, Ford is developing a range of other environmentally focused features, including advanced electric power steering, weight reduction and aerodynamic improvements, plus biofuel-capable vehicles, hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

“Electrification is a key element in the effective use of Ford’s global resources and talents to provide a portfolio of affordable and fuel-efficient technologies for customers,” said Fleming. “In particular our fleet trials in the UK and Germanywill give us vital experience and insight into how fleet and private customers for these niche models will use them on a daily basis. This will ensure that the five models we bring to market are fully developed to meet their expectations.”

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Other factors, says mytyres.co.uk, that may cause deterioration or damage to tyres include some soaps and detergents. These can remove protective chemicals that are embedded in the sidewall – they can sometimes be identified visually on the tyre as brown watermarks –resulting in a significant reduction in durability.

mytyres.co.uk advises motorists considering using a pressure washer on their cars to adhere to the following tips:

· Ideally, use a light to medium duty pressure washer (110 bar or less)

· Keep the washer nozzle at least 20cm from the tyre surface

· Always use a fan nozzle to clean tyres, rather than a circular nozzle

· Avoid prolonged jet washing of any one area of the tyre

· Avoid aiming the water jet at the join between the tyre and wheel rim

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The CZ500E incorporates CD/CD-R/CD-RW and MP3/WMA/AAC playback, whilst providing direct iPod control (no additional leads needed) via a USB slot on the rear of the head unit, and built-in Bluetooth hands free control and audio streaming (A2DP & AVRCP) – including direct phone list access via the head unit controls – is added as standard.

Clarion has consistently pushed the boundaries of in-car audio reproduction, and the CZ500E boasts digital Z-Enhancer sound customisation presets to boost the bass and treble, Magna Bass EX to provide extra low-frequency impact (boosting bass by 10dB at 60 Hz), for a well-balanced sound reproduction, and BBE® MP (Minimised Polynomial Non-Linear Saturation) to restore the subtleties of sound lost in the compression of MP3 and WMA audio files.

With an ever-increasing army of audio aficionados seeking greater levels of customisation, the CZ500E also proves itself an ideal entry point for any ‘serious’ system build thanks to the addition of 6 channel RCA line-out – previously a feature reserved for expensive, flagship models – that allow greater flexibility with amp additions and speaker set-ups.

The CZ500E features a large rotary volume control, whilst a white LCD display (13 segment 10 x 2 Line), piano black fascia, metallic feature trim, and the new ‘star-burst’ style blue button illumination create a stunning showpiece for any dashboard.

Despite its good looks and feature-rich spec, the CZ500E has a typical selling price of just £199.00 via appointed dealers across the UK. For more details call Clarion (GB) Ltd., on 01793 870400, or visit www.clarion.co.uk.

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Based on the 2010 passion model, the aggressively-styled edition urbanstyle will be limited to a UK production run of 230 coupé models – 160 units featuring the 71bhp (mhd)engine and 70 with the turbocharged 84bhp unit. A cabriolet version is available as a special order only.

With exclusive dark grey matt finish paintwork, which also extends to the attractive 6-spoke, 15” alloy wheels, and a tridion safety cell in gleaming black, the edition urbanstyle cuts a dash in the most fashionable of places.

The contemporary and sporty feel of the edition urbanstyle is also reflected in its stylish interior. Heated, nappa leather black seats with yellow double stitching and striking reflective stripes set the scene, while the 3-spoke steering wheel and gear shift knob are also finished in supple nappa leather. Door trims, knee pad and the instrument panel benefit from a leather-look finish and eye-catching matt silver details and yellow accents complete the interior’s ambience.

Navigating the bright lights is guaranteed to be an entertaining experience for the edition urbanstyle’s occupants too. In addition to the smart sound system, which provides crisp sound reproduction thanks to its 2 tweeters, 2 mid-range speakers, subwoofer and smart

MP3 interface, the model also has an integrated audio and navigation system. This advanced system incorporates a 5.8” touch screen, iPod®/USB connectivity, Bluetooth and radio/CD.

“The edition urbanstyle offers a unique fusion of cutting-edge style and a level of equipment that features infotainment technology rarely seen in this sector,” said Dermot Kelly, Managing Director Mercedes-Benz Cars UK.

“smart has always been a trendsetter and the contemporary look and advanced specification of the edition urbanstyle reinforces the perception that the brand is very much a modern design statement.”

The smart fortwo edition urbanstyle costs from £11,495 on the road.

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The first Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este was held here on the banks of Lake Como in 1929, and today no other event of its kind can match its heritage and tradition.

The Concorso begins on Saturday with a programme for invited guests.

On Sunday, all car fans will then have the chance to admire these automotive masterpieces at close quarters in the adjacent parkland of Villa Erba.

The cars presented on Saturday will be complemented by special exhibitions featuring a host of other prestigious classic models.

Admission to Villa Erba in Cernobbio is 14 euros (concessions 8 euros).

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The new 19-strong range features refreshed exterior and interior styling, additional equipment and a range of significant technical enhancements that improve fuel economy by up to 6.4 percent and reduced CO2 emissions by up to 6.1 percent.

Customers will be offered a choice of two body styles** (hatchback and estate), six engines (three petrol and three diesel) and four equipment levels – S, TS, TS2, and Sport.

Improved fuel economy, lower Road Fund Licence bands and reduced Benefit In Kind costs offer buyers significant savings while prices for the new Mazda6 are increased by an average of just 4.8 percent ranging from £16,990 to £23,445 on-the-road.

“Distinctive styling has always given the Mazda6 ‘stand-out’ looks from other family cars and the refreshed model has an even more sophisticated appearance,” comments Mark Cameron, Sales and Marketing Director, Mazda UK.

“Dynamic and engaging driving characteristics have also played a big part in the success of Mazda6 and they remain at the heart of the upgraded model.”

“The upgraded Mazda6 has been given a make-over that is much more than a cosmetic exercise. While the car has more aggressive front styling, the engines, suspension and steering have been fine-tuned enhancing the refinement of the driving experience. Mazda6 remains among the best-in-class for CO2 emissions and its ownership experience is underpinned by reduced costs and Mazda’s outstanding build quality and reliability,” adds Cameron.

Retuned engines deliver reduced CO2 emissions

A new 2-litre DISI petrol engine delivers 155ps (up from 147ps), while the lower power 2.2-litre diesel generates more power and torque – up 4ps to 129ps and up 20Nm to 340Nm at 1,800rpm. The highest power 2.2-litre diesel now produces 180ps (down 5ps) but modifications to the turbocharger boost torque delivery whilst facilitating improvements in fuel economy and CO2 emissions which therefore sees it retaining its overall excellence in performance.

A Sport 2.0-litre petrol model with Mazda’s five-speed automatic transmission is introduced after dealers reported a latent demand for a top-of-the-range model with this specification.

The upgraded Mazda6 achieves fuel economy average improvements of 3.2 and 4.1 percent (petrol/diesel) and CO2 emissions reductions that average 4.4 and 4.8 percent (petrol/diesel), so the lower power 2.2-litre, 129ps diesel hatchback now has a rating of just 138g/km. These improvements move many models into a lower RFL band. All new Mazda6 models now meet Euro5 emission standards***.

Four, highly specified equipment levels

Although Mazda is keeping the upgraded Mazda6 range as simple as possible, buyers will continue to be offered a broad choice of powertrains and specifications, with each of the four equipment levels – S, TS, TS2, and Sport – highly specified within its price band.

Upgraded equipment for the new Mazda6 encompasses ‘smart’ turn indicators and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) for the ‘S’ grade and all other models. Additional items moving up the range include: rear spoiler (TS upwards), front & rear parking sensors and Hill Hold Assist (HHA), (TS2 upwards), and swivel-type AFS front lights (Sport).

Full leather trim is now available as an option on all TS2 and Sport models and includes powered driver and front passenger seats with a memory function on the driver’s seat.

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Works Service Tailored is a new service offering customers of both new and existing Aston Martins, personal tailored options through Aston Martin’s world famous Works Service facility. Works Service Tailored focuses on fashioning colour and materials with limitless boundaries precisely to customer choice and specification, enabling owners to apply their own personal taste.

Two Works Service Tailored cars are showcased at the Geneva Show (2 – 14 March 2009); a Magma Red Rapide featuring tailored ‘Cryptic Titan’ facia and door finishers and a DB9 with Blue Pearl white paint, gun metal exterior metal work, Blue Gin Leather and an African Walnut wood finish. Both cars serve as a showcase of what Works Service Tailored can offer to customers of both new and existing Aston Martins.

Since the 1920s, Works Service has served as a factory-owned specialist with the experience, passion and culture to care for any post-war Aston Martin or Lagonda with exquisite skill and attention to detail. Customers from all over the world choose to have their Aston Martin serviced and cared for by Works Service who can offer services ranging from ground up restorations, to modifying and creating bespoke solutions to individual tastes.

DBS UB-2010 Limited Edition

Aston Martin commemorates Dr. Ulrich Bez’s 10th year as Chief Executive of the company by unveiling the DBS UB-2010 edition which is a limited run of 40 DBS comprising 20 Coupes and 20 Volantes. Capitalising on the new Works Service Tailored competencies, each DBS UB-2010 has been specified personally by Dr. Bez and features a unique ‘Azurite Black’ paint finish, a metallic bronze leather with woven leather seat inserts and a ‘Cryptic Titan’ facia finish. Each car will bare ‘UB-2010’ sill plaques signed by Dr. Bez together with a final inspection plate after Dr. Bez has signed-off each of the 40 cars personally.

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In this latest set of results from Euro NCAP the Verso was the only car out of several manufacturers vehicles tested to receive the maximum five star rating under the revised, more demanding, 2010 Euro NCAP crash test programme. The Verso scored 89 per cent for Adult Occupancy, 75 per cent for Child Occupancy, 69 per cent for Pedestrian Impact and 86 per cent for Safety Assistance.

New Euro NCAP regulations were introduced in February 2009. This marks the start of a three step programme which will see the introduction of further, increasingly stringent crash testing rules in 2010 and 2012.

Significantly improved Pedestrian Impact performance constitutes one major change in this three step programme, with a 5-Star rating requiring a score of 25 per cent in 2009, 40 per cent in 2010 and 60 per cent in 2012. By achieving 69 per cent, the Verso already fulfils the requirements of the challenging, 2012 test target.

With adult and child occupant categories also becoming increasingly strict in 2010 and 2012, vehicles now need to achieve excellent results in all four categories to merit a 5-star rating.

In 2009, the iQ, Avensis and Prius all achieved the same maximum 5-Star rating. 

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