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OR O RI N OTORING OTO O TOR RIN NG G TO R IN M New News N ews ews ws Neew

COMPREHENSIVE COMP ISSUE # 286

INFORMATIVE

UNBIASED SEPTEMBER 2020

End of the line for Civic Type R

‘Big Cliff’ Memorial AutoCross an annual affair

Strong fields expected for big events Page 6

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Vaucluse is 20 ‘Warren leads way home to win anniversary crown’

Specialising in Mechanical and Autobody Repairs, Valuations on Japanese Model Vehicles, Roadworthy Certificates for insurance purposes

Office hours Monday to Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm

Page 2

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

New truck coming A pick-up truck is coming from the Korean automaker Hyundai.

It is the Hyundai Santa Cruz and it’s being put through its paces under heavy camouflage, in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The upcoming 2021 Hyundai Santa Cruz PickUp is being developed under the codename of NX4 OB, with the addition of the OB differentiating if from the NX4 code used with the Tucson.

This model has a smaller body than the traditional pickup truck, and it comes with four doors and seating for five. Unlike framebased pickups, the Santa Cruz will offer an incredibly comfortable ride, as well as great utilisation of space.

The pickup will become part of a new market that Hyundai is calling the ‘urban pickup truck’.

Rather than being a truck used for heavy towing or

hauling of construction materials, the Santa Cruz urban pickup truck is being designed for adventure enthusiasts looking to transport their camping gear, bikes, or other equipment used in outdoor leisure activities. Sources close to the development say the 2021 Santa Cruz has a unibody construction. There are no specifications to report at this time, and nothing is yet know as to how much the vehicle will be able to carry or tow.

Insiders say their best guess is that the Santa Cruz will have more pulling power than the Santa Fe and will be more in line with the Ridgeline, which would put the towing capacity at around 5,000 pounds and will be built in U.S. In the meantime, Hyundai is currently in the process of organising the supply lines at their Alabama plant to make space for two new

vehicles. The next generation Tucson will be the first to go into production this year, with the Santa Cruz set to hit production lines

shortly afterwards.

As far as the engine goes, the Santa Cruz will almost certainly be powered by a 2.5-liter engine, with a

hybrid options also expected to be offered. In a recent statement, Hyundai indicated that their new pickup will be targeted at millenni-

als, who they described as “a new generation of buyers.” Expect the new pickup to take its styling cues from the Tucson.

In camouflage: The 2021 Hyundai Santa Cruz pickup. (Picture from Hyundai Indianautosblog)

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 3

Inside Front

Tyre compounds important in BimmaCup It will be serious business as drivers prepare for Rounds 3 & 4 of the BimmaCup at the Vaucluse Raceway for on September 26.

And based on feedback from drivers, tyre compounds will be in sharp focus, as many drivers, including the experience former British Rally Champion Harold ‘Doc’ Morley and Stuart Maloney, said the track was not as abrasive as in past years.

“There were enough marbles on the surface to avoid too much lateral degradation on the hard compounds that I used and I personally think the medium tyres would be faster”, Maloney noted.

Morley echoed similar sentiments but pointed out that the Infra Chicane was the only concern for him, but as the day progressed other drivers became more committed to layout and were more adventurous in their respective machines.

“If we need a curve at 200 metres from the final corner under rallycross rules then a

proper corner or a chicane to slow down drivers, it would be better in the longterm to save major repairs”, Morley added.

Another highly-rated driver, Neil Corbin said he also found the track to be better on tyres at the anniversary event and admitted that he had used old tyres which had held up for the day’s action.

“I would have gone faster had I changed, but I also drove to preserve the tyres as I didn’t have any spares”, he added.

Anniversary Champion driver Ian ‘WeeWee’ Warren at the wheel of the WestLake BMW 318ti said he had enjoyed and praised the organisers for putting on such a competitive event.

Stuart Garcia in a similar machine followed Warren home ahead of third place Chris ‘Petal’ Hoad who was also driving the Subway BMW 318ti.

During the prizegiving club president Ryan ‘Woody’ Wood said, after the success of the event and

the crowning of Warren, had high praise for the Marshalls of whom he said had done a did a stellar job in keeping drivers safe along with the 450 spectators who came to see the action.

“Once qualifying was over the race cards were loaded with head-to-head racing which could not be predicted as the lights went green and got the full attention of the spectators. It is the kind of close racing people leave home see.......and the drivers didn’t disappoint’. Wood noted.

He said the Covid-19 pandemic had put the brakes on the earlier preparations, but he thanked the track sponsors for their support as attention will switch to the September 26 event which is also expected to be a keenly contested affair.

He said too, that the track was far less abrasive than in the past and drivers were upbeat that there was not too much degradation of tyres.

Cont’d on page 4 ...

CRIME PREVENTION TIP:

Do not grow plants or trees that obstruct a clear view from windows and doors.

Always ask how tall a plant grows before you purchase it. Positioning plants or trees is key to your safety.

(From the Crime Prevention Department of the Royal Barbados Police Force)

BimmaCup and 20th anniversary RallySprint champion driver Ian ‘WeeWee’ Warren is flanked by second place Stuart Garcia, right, newly-promoted rookie driver Chris Hoad, left, on the podium at the prizegiving held at the Vaucluse Raceway.

We make it look like new, when we’re through

Page 4

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Andrew Jones, left, was among the winners in Q2 at the Vaucluse Raceway. Gail Hutchinson presented the prize.

Roger ‘The Ninja’ Hill got the better of a keen tussle with David Coello for the 4WD title.

He was presented with the prize by Gail Hutchinson.

Varied field signalled start of raceway Trinidad and Tobago’s David Coello, left, was second in the 4WD class. He was presented with his prize by Gail Hutchinson.

From Page 3 ...

The Vaucluse Raceway is the brainchild of leading local rally driver, Greg ‘Hotty’ Cozier, who, in 1997, after a visit to the International RallySprint at Silverstone convinced him that there was a need for a similar track in his home island.

After brainstorming some leading drivers, including Matt and Olly Clark, Tony Pond and Andy Dawson as well as top rallying journalist, Martin Sharp, he was joined by business partner Spencer Hutchinson and a 70-acre site at Vaucluse Plantation, St Thomas was decided upon.

Once a proper surface was prepared, the inaugural RallySprint meeting, run by Barbados Rally Club in

August 2000, proved an overwhelming success attracting 46 competitors from Barbados, three from St Vincent and one from the UK who converged on the new facility to race cars that varied from standard production 1300 cars up to full Group A four-wheel drive machines.

With the track’s pedigree established, in 2001 Cozier approached the Barbados Tourism Authority with a proposal to turn Bajan motor sport into a tourist attraction.

“We made the case that, if it was no more expensive to travel to Barbados with a rally car than with golf clubs, motor sport could be a self-sustaining tourism product,” Cozier recalls.

In response, the Barbados

Government agreed to pay shipping costs for rally cars coming from the UK if guests paid their travel costs and stayed for longer than ten nights and the resultant Barbados Rally Carnival went from strength to strength; taking place over two consecutive weekends in May, combining a RallySprint with a two-day stage rally now known as Rally Barbados.

Vaucluse Raceway’s success spawned the Barbados RallyCross International in 2006 and Barbados Historic Rally Carnival in 2010 to the present.

Stay Safe

Karl Waterman, left, was also among the winners in qualifying. He collected his prize from Gail Hutchinson.

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

P age 5

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MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

‘Sheriff’ not missing Flow King of the Hill, Sol Rally Barbados ‘I will not be missing Flow King of The Hill nor Sol Rally Barbados this year.

And Barbados’ best decorated driver Roger ‘The Sheriff’ Skeete told Motoring News that repairs to his damaged Sol/Automotive Art Peugeot 306 Maxi is at an advanced stage and he all appears to be well.

Skeete crashed during the Hammertime ‘20 doubleheader and rolled four times in the event organised joint-

ly by the Motoring Club Barbados Incorporated (MCBI) and the Barbados Rally Club (BRC) from Henley - Cherry Grove, St.John on August 23 and the car suffered extensive damage.

He said the front of the car was damaged as well as the left door and wheel and the repairs had started as he is not planning to miss the two big events.

“Repairs are in progress and I am recovering well.

No special advice was given

to follow. I suffered some rib bruising and have been resting since the accident, but should be well in the time allotted”, Skeete noted.

Chief Technical Specialist at SRG Engineering, Simon Gilmore, confirmed that repairs to the car are in progress and the car will be ready for Flow King of the Hill on October 25.

“Some chassis work will be done at Corbin’s Garage before the car is painted. We are awaiting the arrival of a wheel bearing from France

Marshals and emergency personel were the first on the scene of the crash of Roger ‘The Sheriff’ Skeete at the Henley - Cherry Grove, St. John double-header on August 23,2020. and that is on its way to Barbados and the car will be ready”, Gilmore added.

The Sheriff’ Skeete rolled the Sol/Automotive Art Peugeot 306 Maxi four times during the first run of the double-header from Henley to Cherry Grove, St.John and examined by

medical personnel headed

by Dr. Brian Charles and he took no further part in the event.

Skeete’s son Dane, who won Sol Rally Barbados last year, was also sidelined, due to a fuel leak on the Sol/CO Williams Sand & Lime/Automotive Art

Subaru Impreza WRC S12B and Jamaica’s Jeff Panton in the Rubis/KIG/Sandals Barbados Ford Fiesta WRC who returned the fastest time was 1 minute 45.08 seconds, was followed Cont’d next page ...

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Brian Charles attending to Roger ‘The Sheriff’ Skeete at the scene in cane field at Kendal, St. John. Skeete suffered rib bruising.

Safety Marshal Jeff Bovell, right, assisting Roger ‘The Sheriff’ Skeete to the waiting ambulance.

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 7

British regular Rob Swann in the Blue Sky Luxury/Elegant Hotels Ford Fiesta WRC picked up second place with a time of 1 minute 46.27 seconds.

Roger ‘The Ninja’ Hill in the Esso/MaxMeyer Paints/MotorMac Skoda Fabia R5 won the FIA R5 Group and was third fastest overall with a time of 1 minute 48.57 seconds.

‘Red hot’ Hill wins FIA R5 Group From page 6 ... home by England’s Rob Swann in the Blue Sky Luxury/Elegant Hotels Ford Fiesta WRC whose time 1 minute 46.27 seconds.

“Rob drove brilliantly and pushed me to break through any fears I had, to push harder each run in trying to

get back up to my usual competitive speed, although I felt nervous and was overly-cautious. It was exciting yet nerve wracking to get back in a WRC car, but the work starts now. It’s always such a pleasure driving here, with such top-class drivers and

driving from the Esuf brothers, Suleiman and Ahmed, at the driving a Ford Fiesta R5 and a BMW M3 respectively.

Competition is SM2 was at a high with Josh Read and Barry Mayers making their presence felt with wins each in the event which held points for the drivers’ cham-

pionship of Motoring Club and Barbados Rally Club.

And as if to heighten the day’s action, Turks & Caicos Islands’ Paul Horton had the expertise of twotime British Rally Champion Matt Edwards on his team assisting him on his learning curve with his Ford Fiesta R5.

Clerk of the Course Neil Barnard said “it was good to ‘shake the rust off’ and I presume it was the same for Cont’d on page 8...

Don’t text & Drive

machines,”Panton noted.

Roger ‘The Ninja’ Hill won the FIA R5 group and was third fastest overall with a time of 1 minute 48.57 seconds in the Esso/MaxMeyer Paints/MotorMac Skoda Fabia R5, while fans were treated to some spirited

WET OR SATIN FINISH

LOCALLY BLENDED

LONG LASTING & DURABLE

Ahmed Esuf was the day’s most colourful driver on the day at the wheel of the Express Imports/Y Esuf Auto Clinic/SY Adam & Son/Prosales BMW M3.

Page 8

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Turks & Caicos Rally Team member Paul Horton said he was happy with the way things had gone for him with the Java Island/HO2 Construction Ford Fiesta R5.

Barry Mayers in the Chefette/Rubis/Hankook/Sign Depot Ford Fiesta finished fifth overall.

Club officials happy working together Josh Read competing in SM2 in the Weetabix Toyota Starlet finished fourth overall.

From page 7 ... the competitors. The day ran relatively smoothly, the biggest delay being Roger Skeete’s accident - I am very glad he is OK. All of the marshals were keen and seemed glad to be back out and I must say it was a real pleasure working with the

tary David Stewart was a huge help, as was the Safety Officer Jefferson Russell.

And well done to John Croney, who was particularly efficient with times and results.

Starved of action by world-wide lockdowns caused by the coronavirus

pandemic, overseas drivers pulled out all the stops to comply with Covid-19 travel protocols and ensure their participation in the delayed start to the closed-road season and local fans turned out in huge numbers to welcome them.

Rhett Watson in SM2 in the Chefette/Stihl/Gliptone/Gunk/Leafy Organics/Bajan Pure Water/Power King Batteries BMW M3 rounded outthw top ten.

Motoring Club yesterday�.

Of the officials Barnard said it is always good to have motoring club president David Williams on any organising team for his calm and measured in his approach.

He said competition secre-

Buckle Up!!!

Wear your seatbelt.

A message from DriveTime

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 9

The pair of Chris King and Wrawick Eastmond in a Nissan Frontier are looking to make it two-in-row when they tackle the opposition in the Chefette Summer Safari on September 20.

Chefette Summer Safari September 20 Chris King and Warrick Eastmond are looking to make it two in a row when they tackle the Chefette Summer Safari on September 20.

The emerged winners of the Shelbury Construction Summer Safari and added their names to the Roll of Honour of the Barbados Rally Club’s longest-running event, affectionately called ‘The June’, but was pushed backed into July due to the lockdown caused by Covid-19 Pandemic.

Driving a Nissan Frontier: King’s victory was his first since joining the championship two years ago – he brings the number of winners of ‘The June’ to 74 since the event was first run in June 1957, while Eastmond’s was his second, repeating his 2016 success with Mike Ward.

They finished the overnight event with 482 penalties, 60 fewer than Dean Springer and Bridget Garity, who claimed their

best result yet in the Eastern Veterinary Clinic Ford Ranger; David Armstrong and Andrew Croney (Toyota Hilux) cornered the final podium position with 582 penalties, just four fewer than last year’s winners of ‘The June’, Ben Norris and Kirk Watkins (Toyota Land Cruiser). Newcomers Shaquille Jemmott and Shanica Toppin won Class B in their Suzuki Escudo, finishing seventh overall.

King said: “My first win!

And huge congratulations to Warrick on chalking up his second 'June' win. I think all the competitors were glad just to be back in competition after such a long hiatus!

I’m very grateful for the commitment and hard-work of the organising committee, route-setters Kristina and Kai, the marshals and sponsor Shelbury Construction, who despite all of the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic were able to put together a very enjoyable and challenging event.”

Winning driver King had first competed around 30 years ago, as navigator for Tyrone Moseley, sitting with him until the late 1990s: “I drifted out of the sport when the focus was more on allstage events and took a long break, returning in 2018 at ‘The June’. I’m enjoying my new role in the driver's seat; we were plagued with mechanical issues in the first two events, but thanks to the support of the MudDogs community were able to keep going and improve our results over the past 18 months.”

Buckle up, Wear your seatbelts.

A message from Chefette

Shelbury Construction Summer Safari (‘The June’) Chefette MudDogs Safari Championship - round 1 1st Chris King/Warrick Eastmond (Nissan Frontier), 482 penalties 2nd Dean Springer/Bridget Garity (Eastern Veterinary Clinic Ford Ranger), 542pens 3rd David Armstrong/Andrew Croney (Toyota Hilux), 582pens 4th Ben Norris/Kirk Watkins (Toyota Land Cruiser), 586pens 5th Stephen Mayers/David Reece (Toyota Hilux), 838pens 6th Willie Hinds/Wayne Manning (Black Bess Group Suzuki Samurai), 866pens 7th Shaquille Jemmott/Shanica Toppin (Suzuki Escudo), 1002pens 8th John Pinto/Adam Hunte (Structural Systems GMC Sonoma), 1148pens 9th Abdullah Patel/Bilal Patel (Patels Equipment & Hardware/NiLight/Total Tools Mitsubishi L200), 1388pens 10th Chris Armstrong/Wayne Clarke (Toyota Hilux), 1998pens

Route 1: 1st King/Eastmond, 182pens; 2nd Springer/Garity, 214pens; 3rd Gary Mendes/George Mendes (G&G Sales and Service/Goodyear Tyres Daihatsu Rocky), 258pens; 4th Michael Ward/Austin Barber (Suzuki Vitara), 258pens; 5th D Armstrong/Croney, 266pens; 6th Norris/Watkins, 288pens; Route 2: 1st Hinds/Manning, 160pens; 2nd Norris/Watkins, 174pens; 3rd D Armstrong/Croney, 184pens; 4th Springer/Garity, 184pens; 5th King/Eastmond, 196pens; 6th Ward/Barber, 198pens;

Route 3: 1st King/Eastmond, 104pens; 2nd Norris/Watkins, 124pens; 3rd D Armstrong/Croney, 132pens; 4th Springer/Garity, 144pens; 5th Jemmott/Toppin, 170pens; 6th Hinds/Manning, 266pens; Class B 1st Jemmott/Toppin, 1002pens 2nd Pinto/Hunte, 1148pens 3rd A Patel/B Patel, 1388pens Route 1: 1st Ward/Barber, 258pens; 2nd A Patel/B Patel, 438pens; 3rd Pinto/Hunte, 588pens; Route 2: 1st Ward/Barber, 198pens; 2nd Jemmott/Toppin, 224pens; 3rd Pinto/Hunte, 260pens; Route 3: 1st Jemmott/Toppin, 170pens; 2nd Pinto/Hunte, 300pens; 3rd A Patel/B Patel, 590pens

Page 10

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Annual affair for ‘Big Cliff’ The Clifton ‘Big Cliff’ Pilgrim BRC Memorial Autocross will be an annual affair.

Word of this came from coordinator of the Barbados Rally Club’s (BRC)AutoCross series, Geoffrey Goddard who was quick to point out that it would be a single event and not a doubleheader, since such events are too much

to the Covid-19 pandemic and the club had to catch up on the what it had missed and getting it set up and running it, takes more manpower than is available, so it would not be a doubleheader in the future.

During the day’s action, which was staged with the good wishes of Woolf Sales Solutions and Chefette Restaurants, it was a

2WD Street Tyre Class.

Another rookie also catching the eye was Joseph Tseu in the Carters General Stores/PitStop Daihatsu Charade 1300, who was also in his second Autocross and was outstanding in the wet conditions of Round four and grabbed the rookie honours and was fourth overall in the 2WD Street Tyre Class.

Defending male champion Christopher ‘Teach’ McFarlane, right, who was the fastest driver at the event discussing the AutoCross with Claire Pilgrim, wife of the late Clifton Pilgrim, to whose memory the event was dedicated.

Joseph Tseu in the Carters General Stores/PitStop Daihatsu Charade 1300 was the top rookie in Round Four. for the resources of the club.

“Big Cliff was an asset to the autocross series and to motorsport in general and we are happy to be able to perpetuate his name in this way”, Goddard added.

The double-header, he said, was occasioned as a result of the lockdown due

straight between the rookies of the club, with impressive performances from Damian Sobers in the Sobers & Sons Auto/Lucas Oil Products Toyota Corolla FX 2000 rear wheel drive, in only his second Autocross event who was the highest placed rookie in round three and finished fifth overall in the

He also returned the eighth fastest time during the day’s proceedings.

Good performances in the Round four in wet conditions also came from Liam Rondon in a Bushy Park Suzuki Swift Sport 1600

Damian Sobers in the Sobers & Sons Auto/Lucas Oil Products Toyota Corolla FX 2000 rear wheel drive, was the highest placed rookie in Round Three.

Cont’d next page ,,,

Defending female champion Cheryl-Ann Hurley in a Hyundai Ionic rounds out the top six in the overall standings at the end of the Clifton ‘Big Cliff’ Pilgrim Memorial doubleheader.

Rookie Ramon Moore in the Superior Auto Centre Toyota Corolla was the second fastest rookie during Round Four of the day’s action.

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 11

Matthew Durant in a well-turned out Toyota GT86 2000.

Stephen Nicholls in the EZ Pave/Own Piece of the Rock Realty Nissan March 1600.

Wet track conditions a test for drivers From page 10 ,,, Cup Car, who was the fastest rookie of round two, but was sixth in the same class and 11th fastest overall, while another rookie, Andros Welch in the Toyota Corolla GT86 2000, was seventh.

First time female Kristina Pinto in a BMW 318ti turned in a good performance to take the top spot among the women in Round three over Tammy Nelson in a Bushy Park Suzuki Swift Sport 1600 Cup Car and last year’s champion Cheryl Ann Hurley in the Toyota Starlet 1600, but Nelson came back in Round four to lift the class win from Hurley, who had switched to a Hyundai Ionic, while Pinto finished third.

In the 2WD Race Tyre Class Jody Forte in his Subaru BRZ 2000 was locked in a fierce battle with former multiple Autocross champion Jamal Brathwaite in his Honda Civic Type R 2000 and took the Round three Class win followed by Stephen

Nicholls in the EZPave/Own Piece of the Rock Realty Nissan March 1600.

But Nicholls made his presence felt in Round four with an impressive win in mixed conditions ahead of Forte and Jamal Brathwaite, while the battle in the 2WD Street Tyre Class was very close in Round # 3 with Boodhoo brothers, Jamal and Omar, sharing the Mitsubishi Colt 1600 topped the table ahead Matthew Durant in his Toyota GT86 2000. The results were the same among the three drivers in Round Four.

In the 4WD Race Tyre Class Christopher " Teach" McFarlane in the GoodYear Tyres Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 10 FQ 300 took the class win in both rounds as his main opposition Omar Boodoo in a Subaru Impreza WRX 2000 ran into some tyre problems and had to settle for second place in both rounds.

Jamal Boodhoo placed third in both rounds sharing

the Subaru Impreza WRX with his brother Omar, but McFarlane also won the 4WD Street Tyre class in both rounds with Maurice Chapman finishing second in a Subaru Impreza WRX 2000 and Ryan Rock third sharing the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 10 with McFarlane.

A minute’s silence was observed before competitors walked the course and Claire Pilgrim, wife of the late Clifton Pilgrim, was given a ‘test drive’ of the course for Round Three by champion driver Christopher ‘Teach’ McFarlane and for Round Four, by former Motoring Club Barbados Incorporated (MCBI) champion driver Jamal Brathwaite.

In her remarks, Pilgrim thanked the club for honouring the memory of her late husband and wished them well in the years to come.

Saying that it was a memorable event, Clerk-of-theCourse Geoffrey Goddard said, the 32 competitors

who faced the starter gained lots of experience for the day’s action and had

lots of fun having to drive in the rainy conditions during Round four and the club

is looking forward to the final event on December 6.

Page 12

MOTORING NEWS, SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 13

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Weir Engineering RallyTeam’s Triumph TR7 ready for testing said, they are all excited with how the TR7 looks and when the livery has been completed it should be a stunner.

“Co-driver Alex Allingham, a triple Welsh champion, was over to have a look at the car and have the driver’s seat adjusted to his liking after which the body specialists will apply the black and gold colours which would compliment the 3.5 litre V8 engine, which produces 300 brake horse power”, he added.

The team principal said the H.J Weir Engineering UK rally team will miss this year’s events in Barbados as well as selected rallys in the UK, but as things begin to get better with regards to Covid-19, they will be putting a road map in place which would take them through to the new year. He said the TR7 is pointed for

The body of the Weir RallyTeam’s Triumph TR 7 was placed on spit and seam welded for the demands ahead.

A pause for a cause: Team Principal and former driver Rob Weir, left, with driver Alex Allingham, centre, and co-driver Ross Weir in the Weir RallyTeam workshop. the Historic Group for the next year’s Flow King of the Hill and Sol Rally Barbados.

The Triumph TR7 is a sports car which was manufactured from September 1974 to October 1981 by the Specialist Division of British Leyland, renamed the Jaguar-Rover-Triumph division of British Leyland in the United Kingdom.

It was initially produced at the Speke, Liverpool factory, before moving to Canley, Coventry in 1978 and then finally to the Rover Solihull plant in 1980.

It was launched in the USA in January 1975, and a year later in the UK, due to the high demand for the vehicle in the US. It remained in production until 1982.

The car, characterised by its wedge shape and by a swage line sweeping down from the rear

The rear axle was strengthened and now mated to the drivetrain supporting a 3.5 litre V8 engine.

The Triumph TR7 of the H.J Weir Engineering UK rally team of Alex Allingham and Ross Weir is ready.

Team principal Rob Weir told Motoring News from his home that the car looks stunning has a nice growl but the recent lockdown brought on by the Coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic will prevent any serious testing of the car.

“We may have to rent a tarmac location or circuit to do some testing until things reopen so we can put it through its paces under the watchful eye of engineer Dave Appleby of DAE Engineering, the people who specialises in preparing and building TR7 cars for competition”, Weir noted.

Flashback: The Weir Rally team in 2012 in a Triumph TR7. The original Triumph TR7 was a sports car manufactured from September 1974 to October Saying that the engine 1981 by the Specialist Division of British Leyland. carries a nice growl, he

wing to just behind the front wheel, was commonly advertised

as: "the shape of things to come".

The design was penned by Harris

Mann who also designed the wedge-shaped Princess.

It has an overall length of 160 inches (406 cm), width of 66 inches (168 cm), wheelbase of 85 inches (216 cm) and height of 49.5 inches (126 cm). The coupé has a kerbside weight of 2205 pounds (1000 kg) and during development, the TR7 was referred to by the code name "Bullet".

In standard trim, power was provided by a 1,998 cc eight-valve

four-cylinder engine that shared the same basic design as the Triumph Dolomite 1850 engine, albeit increased to two litres and fitted with larger carburettors, mounted in-line at the front of the car.

Weir said that the car is originally from California, has good steelwork, but the Weir ‘works team’ seam welded the body to build strength to make sure that it is structurally strong for the demands motorsport.

At the 2019 Sol Rally Barbados, Allingham and Ross Weir, at the wheel of the Weir Engineering/Weir Laundry Equipment/Wecotec Laundry Equipment Ford Escort MkII, took the Historic 2 title and finished 15th overall.

It was an impressive debut for Allingham, in the company of Weir who had seen action in Barbados in the past in the company of his father Rob Weir and engineer Dave Jenkins.

Page 12

MOTORING NEWS, SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 13

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Weir Engineering RallyTeam’s Triumph TR7 ready for testing said, they are all excited with how the TR7 looks and when the livery has been completed it should be a stunner.

“Co-driver Alex Allingham, a triple Welsh champion, was over to have a look at the car and have the driver’s seat adjusted to his liking after which the body specialists will apply the black and gold colours which would compliment the 3.5 litre V8 engine, which produces 300 brake horse power”, he added.

The team principal said the H.J Weir Engineering UK rally team will miss this year’s events in Barbados as well as selected rallys in the UK, but as things begin to get better with regards to Covid-19, they will be putting a road map in place which would take them through to the new year. He said the TR7 is pointed for

The body of the Weir RallyTeam’s Triumph TR 7 was placed on spit and seam welded for the demands ahead.

A pause for a cause: Team Principal and former driver Rob Weir, left, with driver Alex Allingham, centre, and co-driver Ross Weir in the Weir RallyTeam workshop. the Historic Group for the next year’s Flow King of the Hill and Sol Rally Barbados.

The Triumph TR7 is a sports car which was manufactured from September 1974 to October 1981 by the Specialist Division of British Leyland, renamed the Jaguar-Rover-Triumph division of British Leyland in the United Kingdom.

It was initially produced at the Speke, Liverpool factory, before moving to Canley, Coventry in 1978 and then finally to the Rover Solihull plant in 1980.

It was launched in the USA in January 1975, and a year later in the UK, due to the high demand for the vehicle in the US. It remained in production until 1982.

The car, characterised by its wedge shape and by a swage line sweeping down from the rear

The rear axle was strengthened and now mated to the drivetrain supporting a 3.5 litre V8 engine.

The Triumph TR7 of the H.J Weir Engineering UK rally team of Alex Allingham and Ross Weir is ready.

Team principal Rob Weir told Motoring News from his home that the car looks stunning has a nice growl but the recent lockdown brought on by the Coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic will prevent any serious testing of the car.

“We may have to rent a tarmac location or circuit to do some testing until things reopen so we can put it through its paces under the watchful eye of engineer Dave Appleby of DAE Engineering, the people who specialises in preparing and building TR7 cars for competition”, Weir noted.

Flashback: The Weir Rally team in 2012 in a Triumph TR7. The original Triumph TR7 was a sports car manufactured from September 1974 to October Saying that the engine 1981 by the Specialist Division of British Leyland. carries a nice growl, he

wing to just behind the front wheel, was commonly advertised

as: "the shape of things to come".

The design was penned by Harris

Mann who also designed the wedge-shaped Princess.

It has an overall length of 160 inches (406 cm), width of 66 inches (168 cm), wheelbase of 85 inches (216 cm) and height of 49.5 inches (126 cm). The coupé has a kerbside weight of 2205 pounds (1000 kg) and during development, the TR7 was referred to by the code name "Bullet".

In standard trim, power was provided by a 1,998 cc eight-valve

four-cylinder engine that shared the same basic design as the Triumph Dolomite 1850 engine, albeit increased to two litres and fitted with larger carburettors, mounted in-line at the front of the car.

Weir said that the car is originally from California, has good steelwork, but the Weir ‘works team’ seam welded the body to build strength to make sure that it is structurally strong for the demands motorsport.

At the 2019 Sol Rally Barbados, Allingham and Ross Weir, at the wheel of the Weir Engineering/Weir Laundry Equipment/Wecotec Laundry Equipment Ford Escort MkII, took the Historic 2 title and finished 15th overall.

It was an impressive debut for Allingham, in the company of Weir who had seen action in Barbados in the past in the company of his father Rob Weir and engineer Dave Jenkins.

Page 14

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Motoring News 3 Tranquility Drive, Greenpoint, St.Philip Barbados. West Indies.

Tel. (246) 823-1117/423-0353 Founded January 17, 1997

E-Mail: motoringnews34@gmail.com Website: www.motoringnewsonline.com

Editor: Trevor Thorpe Reporters: Frederick Ferraro, Justin Weir, The Onlooker Pens, Regional & International: JMann, Electronic Services Inc. Advertising: MN Advertising, Photography: MN Pix Clix, Lindsay Farmer, Warren Gollop, Corey Reece, Simon Slade, treVor Thorpe, justbajan.com, Colbert Goddard.

Motoring News is a monthly publication covering local, regional and international motorsport and the automobile industry. It is circulated worldwide.

Motoring News Business Centre ...

Business ...

Argentina donates Covid-19 test kits to Barbados The Government of the Argentine Republic donated 10,000 COVID-19 test kits to the Best-Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory and the Ministry of Health of Barbados. The donation arrived in Bridgetown in the framework of the intense cooperation in place between the two countries, and it is a contribution to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Argentine Ambassador to Barbados, Gustavo Martinez Pandiani, and Songee Beckles, Director of

Facelift for Jaguar F-Type As the competition in the sportscar segment heats up, Jaguar has given their FType Coupe and Convertible a facelift and new engines.

The styling cues are inspired by Jaguar's I-Pace SUV, giving the sports car a lower and more square feel.

The front receives the most significant stroke of the brush, with a new grille and bumpers, front lip, slim headlights and a new clamshell bonnet.

Under the bonnet, you'll find a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 296bhp for the entrylevel P300. The rebranded P450 loses the 3.0-litre V6 but receives a 444bhp 5.0litre supercharged V8 unit.

Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Argentine Ambassador to Barbados, Gustavo Martinez Pandiani, right, and Songee Beckles, Director of the Best-Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory with airport officials at the Grantley Adams Int. Airport. the Best-Dos Santos Public Health Laboratory, received the 120 kg cargo at Terminal 2 of the Grantley

Adams International Airport.

On the significance of the donation, Ambassador

Pandiani said “I am thrilled to finally receive the donation from the Government of Argentina to Barbados

because this virus can be very strong but the friendship between our two countries is even stronger. Since

Barbados is reopening the island to tourism, these tests will be very useful in the recovery of its economy.”

Toyota considering Corolla-sized “Hot Crossover” Japanese automaker Toyota seems serious about bringing another GR model to the U.S. market, but it's definitely not going to be the wild all-wheeldrive, turbocharged, subcompact GR Yaris, according to a tweet from Toyota USA and some text on a GR website it set up.

That leads us to believe there is a new crossover coming to America to slot in between the RAV4 and C-HR, and it might get a rally-bred GR powertrain.

Let's put a few puzzle pieces together and try and suss out what Toyota could be on about with this tweet. A couple years back, The Drive noticed that Toyota had filed trademarks for the "Corolla Cross" name in more than 13 countries. It's a naming convention we're now familiar with, because the adorable Yaris Cross—a lightly crossover-ivied version of the rest-of-world Toyota Yaris—is going to be sold in Japan and Europe, but not here. Its sportier cousin is the GR Yaris, on the same platform as the Yaris Cross and powered by an outrageous 268-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine. Toyota has confirmed that the GR Yaris is definitely not coming stateside, either.

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 15

Motoring News Business Centre ...

Business Centre ...

Men at work: Activity at the Sheraton Mall branch of the SteamBoyz Auto Spa & Car Wash.

SteamBoyz Auto Spa & Car Wash: Going anywhere to please customers What started as a service auto valet business to satisfy the needs of residents of St. Philip and mushroomed to St. John, St. George and Christ Church, is now one of Barbados’ leading auto detailing operations.

It’s called SteamBoyz Auto Spa & Car Wash and manager Frank Thomas said that he is happy with the ways things are going as he and his team answers the needs of Barbadians.

“We started in St.Philip and immediately we saw a boost in business as we caught the attention and attracted business from farther afield and now six years later, we have opened another branch in

Frank Thomas Sheraton Mall and with the Covid-19 pandemic we added a mobile detailing service, which also offers sanitisation services to protect persons from fungus, mold, bacterias and virus, so Steamboyz has really

developed from being a simple car wash to a professional full service detailing service with a great team”, Thomas noted.

He said that they are others in the business, but at SteamBoyz they take pride in their work and are always looking for ways to improve their quality of service to the public, especially when it come to detailing vehicles.

“The entire team has a love for vehicles and enjoys seeing them well presented, even if the vehicles are involved in motorsport, whether it be at Bushy Park or in off road events, as it’s our belief that clean cars

run faster”, he added.

At international race meets, the Steamboyz team had the opportunity to clean

vehicles after each race so that the livery looks good every time driver goes to the start line.

“It was a wonderful experience as gave then a quick detail so that there Cont’d on page 16 ...

Manager Frank Thomas, right, and Detailer, Leslie Trent in duscussion at the Sheraton Mall branch of Steamboyz Auto Spa & Car Wash.

Page 16

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Barbados Rally Club’s (BRC) Champion driver Edward Corbin will have co-driver Johnathan Alleyne in the Valvoline/Hilti/Cargo BGI/Co-Operators General Insurance Daihatsu Charmant.

The Corbins for Flow King of the Hill, Sol Rally Barbados Barbados Rally Club (BRC) champion driver Edward Corbin and his father John, are preparing to take on the opposition in their respective groups in the upcoming Flow King of the Hill and Sol Rally Barbados ‘20.

At press time, the two, along with Dane Skeete, the Sol Rally Barbados winner 2019, were among the early online entries for two biggest events on the local motorsport calendar on the event’s official web site rallybarbados.net.

In the Valvolin/Hilti/Cargo BGI/Co-Operators General Insurance Daihatsu Charmant, the younger Corbin will be partnered with co-driver Johnathan Alleyne and entered in Modified 1, while his father John, a former champion

The pair of John Corbin and Owen Proverbs are entered in Historic 2, in the Automotive Art/Corbin’s Garage Toyota Corolla.

In deep thought: Historic Group champion John Corbin will have Owen Proverbs as his co-driver for upcoming international events in Barbados. driver of the Motoring Club honour. With the closing of last month’s Barbadis Incorporated date on October 2, fast HammerTime 20 double(MCBI) and a fancied drivapproaching, the BRC is header.

After two rounds of six in ers in the Automotive urging competitors to Art/Corbin’s Garage Toyota declare their intentions, so the 2020 BRC Driver’s & Corolla, will have Owen that systems can be put in Class Championships, the Proverbs as his co-driver place for the event, in parjoint overall leaders are and entered in Historic 2. ticular booking sufficient Roger ‘The Ninja’ Hill in Skeete, on the other hand, RallySafe units to cover the the Esso/ Nassco/ will have his regular coentry.

Pennzoil/MaxMeyer driver Tyler Mayhew in the And as drivers and co-driv- Paints/MotorMac Skoda Sol/CO Williams Sand & ers race to meet the October Fabia R5 and Barry Mayers Lime/Automotive Art 2 deadline for entries, the in the Subaru Impreza WRC S12B FIA R5 and SuperModified Chefette/Rubis/Hankook/ and no doubt be looking 2 are among the best-supSign Depot Ford Fiesta. forward to defending local ported classes, in the wake

Steamboyz have mobile valet service From page 15 ... sponsors’ logos and complete livery are in pristine condition each time they go to the track”, Thomas explained.

It is a full service allround business to the public that also includes furniture and yachts.

And as if to move their service to the next level, Steamboyz Auto Spa and Car Wash has introduced Tire Sauce, a product which Thomas says, is for the car of tyres and is also available to the detailers as well as the do-it-yourself person.

“We wanted to develop our own tyre shine and the

initiative took two and a half years to develop as we were experimenting with different prototypes and we have now arrived at the final production and it’s available at all our outlets as well as Redline Performance Imports in Wildey, St. Michael”, Thomas noted.

Saying that a normal day at Steamboyz is very exciting and that there is never dull moment, Thomas said since every vehicle is different and with the new customers, it makes a whole lot of difference especially when you see the satisfied looks on their faces.

Steamboyz Auto Spa & Car Wash at Six Roads, St. Philip is open Monday Sunday from 8 am - 5pm, Sheraton Branch has opening hours from 9 am - 5 pm, while the mobile service is a 24 hour, seven days per week service, as a convenience to the public.

“The response to the mobile service has been very good. We go anywhere in Barbados and people like the idea of either being at home or at their respective offices and have their vehicle cleaned. All you have to do is to call us at 2310515 and make a booking”, Thomas added.

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 17

Flashback to 2018: Nathaniel Munroe in the Lubriguard Lubricants/IDS Intelligence Defense Systems/MetamorFit transform/SM Gardier/John Accounting Services Mini leads Shawn Boxill and the rest of the field during handicap action at Bushy Park. (Picture by Justbajan.com)

Munroe’s on a mission Despite a recent setback, Bushy Park Motor Sport Incorporated (BPMSI) club driver Nathaniel Munroe thinks that he would still have a good 2021 season.

Munroe missed the recently-held August Race Meet at Bushy Park as a result of damage to the engine of his Lubriguard Lubricants/IDS Intelligence Defense Systems/MetamorFit transform/SM Gardier/John Accounting Services Mini.

“Damage to the #3 cylinder caused by the piston pin braking the C clip, slowed the rebuilding process, but we have a new block which would be bored for future

events” the group 1 class 1 driver noted.

Apart from the damage to the engine, Munroe also said that due to the late arrival of parts and some unavailability of others, were also factors which went against he and his works crew, but a confident Munroe said that by God’s will he should be ready for the event in November.

Munroe said the work has been entrusted to technical specialist Freddy Mapp and the remedial work is in progress.

“I will be keeping an eye on the competition to see what improvements drivers

Group 1 Class 1 BPMSI driver Nathaniel Munroe.

and their mechanics are making in the group so that there would be no surprises for me, but we should have a good 2021 season, depending on how we get through this Covid 19 pandemic”, he added.

Munroe who said road events will be added to his portfolio for 2021, also said that his immediate plan is to remain in Group 1 Class 1 and beat reigning champion driver Andre Walcott.

“I plan to stay in the group for a few more years, become at one with the car, gain experience and confidence with the assistance of my technical crew and my

sponsors, - who have been very good to me over the years-, before looking to go elsewhere”, he added.

The driver who also had high praise for his sponsors said Group 1 Class 1 is a comfortable and affordable and it is his intention to remain in the group and take the title before looking to move up to take on different competition.

Munroe said the reigning group champion has been winning races and the coveted champion driver’s title due to his consistency and he has taken a leaf from his

book and plan to keep him busy and then beat him.

The group 1 class 1 driver said mechanic Freddie Mapp has been a tower of strength for him, but looking ahead to 2021, and since the onset of the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, the order of business has changed with the plan to get the car in good shape and start winning races.

Munroe, who has been in winner’s row in the past, but has never taken the group title, said repairs to the car and its engine are in progress and when complet-

ed they will turn their attention to the livery and have everything ready for November and ultimately the 2021 season.

“I have been staying busy doing virtual training, playing games, PS4 project cars, taking part in iRacing and winning races in the virtual world, Munroe added.

But he is happy to learn that another Mini is being prepared for action and will be in the hands of veteran driver David ‘Bingy’ Clarke, but his wish is to see more fans on the hillside at Bushy Park.

Technical Specialist Freddy Mapp, second from left, discussing the layout of the Munroe Mini’s powerplant with a cross-section of drivers, mechanics and fans in the pits at Bushy Park.

Page 18

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Regional News...

Second place Fraser McConnell of Jamaica, second from right, and event winner Oliver Eriksson of Sweden and Ben-Philip Gundersen, right, who finished third. Another driver, Dan Öberg, left, shared the moment with the trio.

Fraser McConnell second overall in 2020 RallyX Nordic Supercar Championship Jamaican Fraser McConnell overcame a broken driveshaft and grabbed his first podium finish Sunday, September 6, claiming second overall in the 2020 RallyX Nordic Supercar Championship.

McConnell, who was congratulated by the Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club (JMMC), had previously committed to the RX2 class for 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic halted racing worldwide. When

Tension high in FIA Karting championship The third and last day of the FIA Karting European Championships - OK & Junior at Wackersdorf kept the tension up to the end of the Finals with incessant clashes between all participants.

The suspense remained high throughout the competition before Ugo Ugochukwu (USA) and Andrea Kimi Antonelli (ITA) were crowned in Junior and OK respectively.

The Wackersdorf circuit, which had not hosted an FIA direct-drive kart competition since 2012, has lost none of its sporting and spectator appeal. Some competitors struggled to regain their ease on the German track, while others took advantage of the opportunity to shine.

presented with the opportunity to fulfill a desire to drive a Supercar in Sweden at the resumption of racing, he took the chance, emerging from the Swedish events in 4th place.

The event was won by Sweden’s Oliver Eriksson, who had put two previous final round disasters firmly to bed and finally seized the RallyX Nordic Supercar title for his own.

Eriksson's misfortune in Sunday's final was McConnell's gain. Piloting a similar OMSE Ford Fiesta, the Jamaican looked to be his team-mate's closest challenger on Saturday until contact pitched him off the track and out of contention, but he bounced back the following day by racing to sec-

Fraser McConnell ond place and his maiden Supercar podium, in so doing grabbing the runnerup spot in the championship standings.

His run to championship success wasn’t without its problems, however, as the 21-year-old picked up a front-left puncture during the final, dropping him out of race-winning contention and resulting in a thirdplace finish, although he had already done enough to secure his status as the series’ newest champion.

Those points prompted

McConnell to compete in the full season, against 25 other drivers in all. He capped his season with his first podium finish, second place at “The Final Showdown” in Denmark and second place in the 2020 Supercar Championship.

Buckle Up; Wear your Seat belts

Keep Barbados Clean.

A message from MQI DriveTime the Courtesy Garage RPM Report.

Page 19

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

F1 News...

90th win for Hamilton Defending Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton won an action-packed firstever Grand Prix of Tuscan Sunday September 13.

And it was an absolute thriller served as Hamilton took victory from his Mercedes team mate Valtteri Bottas in a race that saw two dramatic multi-car crashes within the first nine laps, two red flag stoppages and an exciting finale that culminated in Alex Albon scoring his first F1 podium.

A late red flag, the second of the race – after Racing Point’s Lance Stroll went off at Arrabbiata 2 while holding fourth place – set up a dramatic finish to the first Grand Prix to be held at Mugello, with Hamilton holding on to take his 90th career win from Bottas, as behind, Albon pulled off a fantastic move on Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo to claim an important third with eight laps of the race to go.

Ricciardo was left to come home fourth, tantalisingly close to his first podium with Renault, as Sergio Perez finished fifth for Racing Point. With just 12 runners classified at the finish, Lando Norris was sixth for McLaren, ahead of the AlphaTauri of Daniil Kvyat,

with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc classified eighth at the team’s 1,000th Grand Prix.

Alfa Romeo’s Kimi Raikkonen was ninth after receiving a five-second race penalty, with the second Ferrari of Sebastian Vettel rounding out the top 10.

That left Williams’ George Russell 11th, agonisingly close to the team’s first points of the year, while Haas’ Romain Grosjean finished 12th of 12.

Max Verstappen and Monza winner Pierre Gasly’s Tuscan Grands Prix lasted just two corners, with both caught up in a melee at Turn 2 – Verstappen having already suffered a power unit issue that saw him fall down the order before getting punted off, with Gasly caught up in the incident as well.

A resultant Safety Car then led to a huge accident at the Lap 7 race restart, with Carlos Sainz, Antonio Giovinazzi, Kevin Magnussen and Nicholas Latifi all taken out of the race – thankfully without serious injury, with the race red flagged while the debris was cleared up, before the second red flag came on Lap 45 after Stroll’s acci-

Mercedes Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton with his trophies after winning the Grand Prix of Tuscany. dent, making for a first race at Mugello that won’t be soon forgotten.

Scuderia Ferrari celebrates 1000th Grand Prix

Buckle Scuderia Ferrari, F1's longest-standing and most-famous team marked its 1000th race at the of the Tuscan Grand Prix with a special livery, a classic design used as a Up; Wear tributeweekend to the Ferrari 125 cars with which the team made its championship debut in the 1950 Monaco GP. your From Jose Froilan Gonzalez delivering Ferrari's first pole position and win in the 1951 British GP at Silverstone, to the team's newest superstar in Charles Leclerc, Ferrari has legendary names and moments in F1.

Seatbeltscreated Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher tops the list when it comes to Ferrari's most successful F1 drivers. As well as taking five of his crowns with Ferrari, the legendary German scored 72 victories, 58 pole positions and 53 fastest laps in his 179 starts in red.

Incredibly, nine drivers have won the world championship with Ferrari. Alberto Ascari was the first, doing the double in 1952-53, and was followed by Juan Manuel Fangio (1956), Mike Hawthorn (1958), Phil Hill (1961), John Surtees (1964), Niki Lauda (1975 and 1977), Jody Scheckter (1979), Schumacher (2000-2004) and Kimi Raikkonen (2007).

Ferrari has also produced some of F1's most legendary cars, including the 156 'Sharknose' that dominated the 1961 season, the 312T that was the benchmark in the mid-1970s, and the brilliant F2004, which won 15 of the 18 races in 2004 and set lap records that took many years to be surpassed.

With such a rich and successful heritage, it's natural that title partner Mission Winnow, which stands for progress and the relentless search for improvement, will celebrate the occasion with Ferrari as they take the opportunity to reflect on their legacy and how it drives them in their constant pursuit of better.

Relishing the opportunity to congratulate the team on this achievement and to celebrate this milestone, Mission Winnow has created a video that captures Ferrari's most iconic moments from its seven decades in F1.

The celebrations will provide a look back over Ferrari's illustrious record. In its 999 starts so far, Ferrari has scored 238 wins, 228 pole positions, 772 podiums, 254 fastest laps - all of which are records far ahead of any other F1 team.

Similarly, Ferrari has won more world championships than any other team, with 15 drivers' titles and 16 constructors' championships to its name. Those successes were taken across many different sets of race regulations, with many different drivers and cars; but the drive to be the best has remained the same.

But even more than its success on the track, Ferrari and Mission Winnow will toast a tribute to the culture, values and philosophy that has provided the 'family' with an ever-present bond. And will continue to do so.

Page 20

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Industry News...

New Toyota RAV4 Prime takes over from Prius The RAV4 Hybrid has overtaken the Prius as the best-selling hybrid in the brand's lineup.

And now, Toyota is introducing a plug-in version of the RAV4, one that's more powerful, more fuel efficient, and delivers impressive electric range that makes the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime the crown jewel of the brand's SUV lineup.

One key differentiator between the RAV4 Prime and its siblings is its ability to cover distances on EV power alone. Some customers will be able to commute to work every day without using a drop of gasoline. The RAV4 Prime is expected to travel 42 miles on a single charge, giving it the highest EV range of any plug-in hybrid SUV on the market. Ford's plug-in hybrid Escape isn't far behind with an EV range of 37 miles, except the RAV4 Prime has all-wheel drive, while the Escape plug-in hybrid is only available with front-wheel drive.

Charging times vary dramatically depending on the method. Included with the RAV4 Prime is a 3.3-kW, 120V Level 1 charging cable, allowing customers to recharge the battery in about 12 hours from home. With a 3.3-kW 240V charger, the time drops to 4.5 hours.

XSE models with the Premium package feature enhanced 6.6-kW charging capability to replenish the battery in 2.5 hours on a faster Level 2 charger. With the gas and electric bits combined, total driving range is expected to be 600 miles.

After initially estimating a fuel economy rating of 90 mpg-e, Toyota is now anticipating greater efficiency.

The SUV is expected to deliver 94 mpg-e, an impressive number, but lower than the Escape PHEV's 100 mpg-e rating.

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Performance

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-in hybrid.

It's counterintuitive to think of a RAV4 as sporty, but Toyota intended this variant to focus heavily on performance. The automaker claims the RAV4 Prime is its second-quickest vehicle, just behind the Supra.

Under the sheetmetal, the RAV4 Prime has a lot in common with the RAV4 Hybrid. It uses the Hybrid's 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine, tuned to a slightly higher output. A new lithium-ion battery pack, booster/converter, and more powerful motor-generators give the Prime 83 more horsepower overall compared to the regular RAV4 Hybrid.

Total system output is 302 hp, much more juice than you think a small mainstream crossover would need. The Prime is also significantly heavier, though,

weighing around 4,300 pounds in top XSE trim.

So how does it all work?

There are three different electric modes. In auto/HV mode, the engine kicks on

to deliver extra power when needed, such as when you kick the gas pedal. You can select an EV priority mode to run on electric power only, even when you use the

accelerator aggressively. A battery charge mode uses engine power to recharge the battery, adding EV range as you drive.

If you use electric power

Another view of the Toyota RAV 4 Prime.

The 2021 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid is good for 42 miles of electric-only driving, that says, while total range with gas and electric power combined is 600 miles. ... That helps it with the EPA rating of 100 MPGe, and the 31 MPG combined rating for use on gasdriving alone, both of which are higher than the Toyota manages.

Toyota estimates a 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds in pure EV mode. That's a far cry from hybrid mode, when Toyota claims it can hit 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, regardless of the charge state.

Much like the RAV4 Hybrid, the RAV4 Prime's acceleration is smooth and linear from a stop. Despite the extra horses, it doesn't feel radically more powerful from a stop than its sibling.

The gas engine is quick to jump in with an extra kick when you're switching lanes on the freeway in hybrid mode. When the engine engages, however, you hear a loud groan.

Toyota says it tweaked the RAV4 Prime's suspension for a smoother ride and they also recalibrated the steering system.

only, acceleration is slower.

Let’s all keep Barbados clean

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 21

Industry News...

Director of Sales Roger Moore,left, discussing aspects of the Toyota Rush with a customer in the showroom of Nassco Ltd, local dealers for Toyota vehicles.

The Toyota Rush: A small SUV that inspires The Toyota Rush is a fairly successful small SUV that has been doing fairly well in most markets in which it is being sold.

“To say we are living in uncertain times is a massive understatement, but it’s time back control. It starts with the ability to anticipate change and grab new opportunities. On the road, you need a partner that adapts to various environments and always delivers more. A car with versatility, energizing you with the dynamic excitement of self-confidence and security. A car that inspires. That feeling is a Rush. That vehicle is the Rush. Get your Rush on with us today!” a message from local dealers Nassco Ltd.

With an improved 1.5L inline 4-cylinder petrol engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) it provides enough power and good fuel efficiency.

For maximum safety the all new Toyota Rush is fitted with 6 SRS airbags and vehicle stability control.

The Rush is a perfect fit for an active lifestyle with its all-terrain performance provides nimble and powerful responses on rough roads and gradients, with a high degree of maneuverability on narrow roads that makes every day driving easy.

A roomy three-row 7-seater SUV in a compact body with ample loading and storage space.

A SUV that allows for confident and peace of mind,

and which has capabilities of a class above in every aspect. A dynamic SUV with high-end styling.

However, the current generation Toyota Rush is 4,435 mm long, 1,695 mm wide and 1,705 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,685 mm and a ground clearance of 220 mm.

Powering the SUV is a 2NR-VE 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i four-cylinder petrol engine that produces a maximum power of 105 PS at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 136 Nm at 4,200 rpm.

Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission that drive the rear wheels.

Page 22

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Industry News ....

The new Suzuki Across is offering up to 47 miles of electric range.

Suzuki Across: New low-emission hybrid from leading Japanese automaker A low-emission hybrid model to cut your fuel bills is here.

It’s the new Suzuki Across and it is offering up to 47 miles of electric range more than most plug-in hybrids, which are typically only capable of up to 30 miles of zero-emission range, when fully charged.

Based upon the Toyota RAV4, which is itself available with hybrid power, the Across features a 2.5-litre petrol engine plus an electric motor and larger battery pack.

This means that the Across offers the prospect of far greater real-world electric range - provided you regularly charge the batteries.

Fail to do that and the car will resort to burning petrol, but having to carry the extra

weight of the larger battery pack, potentially making it less efficient than the RAV4 hybrid. Suzuki is presenting the Across as a tough and sporty SUV with a high driving position and allwheel drive.

The first models will be available in autumn.

Standard equipment for the new Across should include LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels and a nine-inch touchscreen media system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink connectivity for connecting different phones to the car.

Suzuki claims that the Across should have an upmarket feel, prioritising comfort and using many soft-touch materials around the cabin.

The plug-in hybrid technol-

ogy, in the Across is capable of travelling up to 47 miles on electricity alone, which is a substantial amount for a hybrid and nearly half that of many early electric cars.

Keep the car chargedl and mainly drive around town, therefore, and you should be able to complete a majority of your driving on electricity alone.

The large battery pack also

means that the Across has an official CO2 emissions figure of 22g/km.

This could make it a good option for car companies as well as drivers.

With that 47-mile range, too, it means that those who primarily do short urban journeys should never need to fill up the petrol tank, provided the plug it in every night.

Don’t text and drive

MOTORING NEWS SEPTEMBER 2020

Page 23

Auto & Commercial Guide Days of Motorsport Date

Event

Venue

Barbados Rally Club Oct. 25

Flow King of the Hill

Stewart’s Hill

Oct. 31/Nov.1 Sol Rally Barbados

Islandwide

BRC Autocross Championship

Dec. 6

Race Day #5

Bushy Park

Motoring Club B’dos Inc Nov.

Rally of the Sun & Stars

TBA

B‘dos Auto Racing League Oct. 11

Plumma &Big Cliff Race Day

Bushy Park

MudDogs Safari Championship

For Sale

Sign & drive; Don’t drink and drive BajanNav Satnav for Barbados BajanNav is free to download and use!

1 Evaporator 1 compressor (Will fit W203, LHD car) 1 Mass Air sensor All new parts for W203 car (C-180) Call 823-1117

#1 In AutoGlass WINDSHIELDS Back Glasses & Door Glasses for cars, trucks, vans.

Pilkington Authorised Dealer Caribbean Autoglass, Green Hill, St. Michael. 417-3041

Chefette Safari

Islandwide

Barbados Karting Association Oct. 4

Karting Race Day

Bushy Park

B’dos Association of Dragsters & Drifters Nov 29

Drag Racing

Bushy Park

Bushy Park Motor Sport Inc Nov 15

Race Meeting (BARL & BPMSI)

Call 424-4798 Vaucluse Motorsport Raceway Club

Digital maps of Barbados for Garmin GPS receivers.

Available from Atlantic Computers.

The Courtesy Garage RPM Report Wednesdays at 12:45 pm only on 98.1 The One.

Sept.20

Sept.26

BimmaCup #3

Vaucluse Raceway

Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Car Club

For Sale

Season suspended

Engine parts for Mercedes Benz C250 - W204 Formula 1

1 Timing Chain DDD9931078

1 Gasket 2710161221 4 Seals 2710161321 2 Plugs 0009978420 1 Plug 0009976220 1 Cover 2710161406 Call 823-1117

Sept.26

Grand Prix of Russia

World Rally Championship Oct. 4 - 7

Rally Great Britain

Sochi

OR O RI N OTORING OTO O TOR RIN NG G TO R IN M eews w Neew News N New wss

COMPREHENSIVE COMP

INFORMATIVE

Barbados WI

UNBIASED

ENTERTAINING ENTER TAINING A AININ Bds. $1.00

SEPTEMBER 2020

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No more Civic Type R Honda has announced changes to its lineup for 2021, some of which have been expected, while some are a bit of a surprise.

The big news surrounds the Honda Civic, which is at the end of its current lifecycle.

There's an all-new 2022 Civic on the way, and so Honda is rearranging its compact-car stalwart's lineup a bit in advance of that debut.

The new model year would not bring an 11th-generation Civic Type R. The 2021 Civic Type R is a carryover, with a rather special limited-edition offering plenty of tweaks and enhancements. It's more a swan song for the tenth generation than anything else.

But the Civic Si would not hang around either. It's on pause—Honda's very clear that it will return for the 2022 model year, but there would not be a 2021. What's not coming back is the Civic Coupe. The official word today is that the Civic Coupe will conclude production at the end of the 2020 model year.

This shouldn't be surpris-

The Honda Civic Type R ing, since coupes are disappearing throughout the segment, and Civic was one of the last holdouts. Honda points out that the Civic Hatchback has also been stealing coupe sales. Up to 24 percent of all Civic sales since 2016, while Coupe sales have fallen from 16 to

6 percent over the same period. The Hatchback will take up the sporty mantle in the Civic lineup for 2021 and beyond.

More bad, (but unsurprising) news, if you're a fan of the space-efficient and surprisingly fun Honda Fit: It's dead in America. 2020 will

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be the final model year for the car known as the Jazz in other parts of the world, but it'll stay in production through the fall to fulfill any remaining demand before departing our shores.

Honda says the Civic Hatchback and the HR-V are already taking enough

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sales away from Fit that, together, the two vehicles can simply take its place.

They are also strong signals that this would happen, since Honda already indicated that the funky fourthgen Honda Fit, sold elsewhere, would not come to the U.S.

Consider that confirmed today. Honda will increase production of the HR-V to capitalise on growing sales and the departure of the Fit, which were up 19 percent in 2019.

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