Issue 15 — Spring 2012
miles ahead...
The Geneva Motor Show The cars which caught our eyes
Pimp My Premium
Save your wasted pimped up money
The Rodeo of Car Audio What’s next in car audio technology?
Subaru eXtra Versatile The Subaru XV
issue 15 - Spring 2012
Editor’s Note Fleur Balzan Publishers b.Right new media Ltd. 19, Parish Street, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 3362, Malta
Editor Fleur Balzan fbalzan@b.rightnewmedia.com
Contributors Pierre Vella Gerald Fenech Mark Attard Jan Karl Farrugia Ben Glover
Hair Cut Coiffeur
Make Up Shasha
Advertising & Sales Fleur Balzan (+356) 21576154 (+356) 99805763
Pre-Press & Printing Impressions Ltd., Marsa
This month, even more than ever, I was more eager to commence work on this issue of the magazine. I don’t know what it is with me, but the more obstacles I find in my path, the more determined I get and there’s nothing stopping me then. The last few months, although not easy, seemed to have been greatly appreciated by our viewers and readers as we tried to take up the various suggestions received whilst still keeping loyal to our ‘purely motoring’ agenda. And after all, isn’t it our viewers and readers we strive to please? As motoring publications continue to increase, it becomes even harder to include only original articles. Not because ideas are lacking, on the contrary! However one is expected to feature different PR articles that appear elsewhere, at times taking up 70% of the content of a publication. Something we refuse to do though it would make our life easier! Yes we at Wheelspin refuse to go with the flow. My motto has always been that if I do something, I will do it well or not do it at all and I hope to keep that in mind for every issue of the magazine and every programme broadcast! And so there it is, a little bit of my stubborn character being made known to you! We care to give a good service which, I believe, is here in these pages thanks to our contributors who do not need much convincing to put their hearts into their writing. In this issue Ben Glover gives us two fun and interesting articles, one about ‘pimping’ ones vehicle and the other, on a more serious note, on the little things one can do to make sure their car is ready for summer. Gerald Fenech writes about the increasing traffic and car registration. Mark Attard, who by the way is also an excellent musician besides a car enthusiast, writes about the history of car audio whilst Pierre Vella gives us a true test drive of the New Subaru XV. JK Farrugia sticks to his passion for Porsches, a passion that it seems is catching on fast! I, on the other hand give you readers a taste of some of the vehicles seen at the Geneva Motor Show, just a taste as otherwise we would have needed even more pages on this issue. So here it is! 100% original articles and hopefully another issue that will be kept by you the Wheelspin reader who is first at the top of our Agenda!
No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form for any purpose without the prior written consent of the publisher. WHEELSPIN
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In this issue Spring 2012
Features 5
The Geneva Motor Show
22
The Rodeo of Car Audio
13
Tips for Summer
27
Traffic and Car Registration
21
Pimp My Premium
Test Drive 10
The Subaru XV Subaru eXtra Versatile
Launches 18
The Cars to recently arrive in Malta
COMPETITION
Snippets 31
MDRA for Charity
Regulars 24
The Porsche Monologues Rants from Stuttgart and Beyond - Part 10
WIN A DRIVING SESSION IN THE LAMBORGHINI MURCIELAGO thanks to Wheelspin and Dream Thrills. Participating is easy, send your details to wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com or Wheelspin, P.O. Box 24, St. Paul’s Bay and you can be a winner. The session consists of: • • •
Demonstration lap driven by the instructor 4 laps driving the Murcielago High-speed passenger ride by the instructor
More details on www.wheelspin.com.mt
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Letters to the Editor: hi Fleur,
dear editor,
Great magazine. I was taken by Ben’s article in the Winter 2012 copy and remember well, after passing my driving test in the UK, having used of my father’s Ford Anglia, one of the vehicles I’m sure Ben would agree fits on his list.
First let me say how much I really enjoy your TV programme and quarterly magazine. By the way, I think you should publish bi-monthly!
We’ve now been here in Gozo for just over a year and my 1970 E-type has recently arrived from South Africa from where we moved. Great decision by the way! Thought I’d share the attached with you. The car was rebuilt over 18 years from scrap metal. I did however, as you will see, track down its birth certificate. I shall also be eternally grateful to the great Enzo Ferrari for waxing lyrical about what I agree is the most beautiful car in the world! Back to Ben, the Jag may not fit the bill as far as what Ben was looking for but if he were to look for the quintessential British car I would suggest this is it. Perhaps in a later article you could search out similar vehicles around the world? Keep up the great work you obviously enjoy. Regards, Bob Adey, Gozo
Here are my suggestions for future features. 1. A potted history of famous Marques. Car owners love to read about the history of their cars, BMW etc.. as well as the more high-end manufacturers such as Lamborghini. 2. A series of how to do basic maintenance and repair of your car. Checking tyres, oil, water, etc. Best Regards, Paul Delves, San Giljan
Reply:
hi Paul, Thanks for your suggestions. We always appreciate receiving them from our readers and viewers. We hope to have taken up one of them for now through Ben Glover’s article ‘Tips for Summer’. Keep watching and reading Wheelspin! Fleur
is there anything you’d like to see featured on our TV Programme and magazine? Send your letters, comments and suggestions to: wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com or Wheelspin, P.O. Box 24, St. Paul’s Bay. All letters featured will receive gifts from our partners or/and Wheelspin Merchandise.
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WHEELSPIN
FEATURE • Online Crime
by Ben Glover
T
o all of the Wheelspin Team, March is synonymous with the Geneva Motor Show. This is definitely not the largest Motor Show in Europe but, as many would agree, the most important one without a doubt.
Those who may have visited this show and maybe also the one in Frankfurt or Paris may ask why this would be the case since all are very important to the motoring industry. This may be true yet what probably makes Geneva different is the fact that this is a yearly event while the others aren’t, whilst the period it falls in, March, makes it the show that gives a lot of promise to that particular year for all global brands. The event this year was as exceptional as any other. The Wheelspin team was in full force and all of us were trying to make the utmost of our few days at the show to be able to bring to our viewers and readers the max possible. During a meeting before our departure, we thought of making this year a different one for Wheelspin viewers. This I believe we managed to do by covering, besides some of the known brands, the many different brands the names of which many are not that familiar with. >>
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FEATURE • Geneva Motor Show
by Fleur Balzan
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We are going to do the same in this article even if just to give an indication of the numerous brands and manufacturers in this passion filled industry. We admit, not all the vehicles we will mention here are accessible to all yet they are so beautiful and thrilling that reading about them might still give pleasure to many! Let’s start by taking a look at the cars presented that will actually be attainable, obviously once they arrive on our shores. Thrilling yet within reach is the Subaru BRZ, a fabulous rear wheel drive sports coupe not for the faint hearted! Subaru are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the fourwheel drive tradition also with the presentation of the New Impreza yet the Subaru BRZ was definitely the star of the stand. We had seen in previous years and also other shows an idea of what this car was promising to be and in Geneva, the public were eagerly awaiting it’s presentation together with its sister car, the Toyota GT 86. 6
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The BRZ is a 2+2 seater car that produces no less than 197bhp from a 2 litre boxer engine. It has a finely tuned steering wheel and, according to the brand, has the lowest centre of gravity when compared to any new car on sale right now, thus also excellent handling. As already mentioned, the fourth generation Impreza was also presented by the brand. The car has been refined whilst still using Subaru’s Boxer engine layout and four-wheel drive system. It is expected that the STI, WRX and WRX STI versions will follow, yet when we do not know. Another familiar brand is Volkswagen, the brand that really gave quite a show during the presentation of the various models and also throughout the show itself. Music singing and dancing were the order of the day whilst on the VW stand and as you may imagine, I didn’t complain at all!! The brand had so many new
vehicles presented in Geneva that I really have to be careful not to miss out on any of them. The focus however was mainly on the smallest member of the brand, the new VW UP four door model which was presented in various concept versions amongst them the Winter UP, the X UP, the Swiss UP, and the Cargo UP. The Winter Up is designed to appeal to those who practice winter sport, the X UP is a version the brand says may be used off road and which features a roofbox with integrated searchlights, the Swiss UP is the four door version designed to appeal to the host country featuring the red and white Swiss flag colours as well as the Swiss Cross whilst the Cargo UP may just be the smallest 3 door van to be presented in a while. Cute or what! Another beautiful car from VW was the VW Golf GTI Cabriolet presented in red. This car is beautiful in a capital ‘B’ and I can definitely see it go to the top of my wish list!! It is a cabriolet
FEATURE • Geneva Motor Show
by Fleur Balzan
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with a soft top offering 207bhp and like the Golf GTI comes in a 2 litre 6 speed manual or DSG gearbox and the same honeycomb grille. Following the presentation of the Golf GTI Cabriolet was the VW Polo Blue GT said to be the most powerful Polo one can buy and it is also the cleanest! The car features a stop/start system and battery generation with a trick alternator that only charges on the overrun. It has a 1.4 TSI engine and features a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. This car reaches the power of 138bhp, not bad at all for a Polo that’s also the most green. VW vehicles were many in all shapes and sizes! Another concept presented in Geneva by the brand was the VW Cross Coupe Concept. This vehicle uses a 2 litre diesel engine together with an electric motor. The diesel engine charges the electric motor which when parked may also be charged through a normal 230V socket. On all electric mode the car
may travel up to 28 miles and at a speed of 75 miles per hour and if the charge of the electric motor is used, the diesel engine takes over. Also, on EV mode only the rear wheels are driven. From VW to Nissan, a brand which had three Concept vehicles as the stars of their stand. The greatest attraction was however the Nissan Invitation Concept, a B Segment vehicle with looks that are ‘eye catching’ at first glance. From the colour the car was presented in to the curves on the sides and the panoramic roof, this car is attractive. A Short bonnet, prominent grille, distinctive headlights and wide wheels arches make this Nissan’s next compact hatchback which may also be defined as sporty. The two other Concepts prominent on the stand were the Hi-Cross Concept, a seven seat crossover with Nissan’s first in-house engineered front wheel drive hybrid system
Subaru BRZ Subaru New Impreza Toyota GT 86 VW Winter Up VW Golf GTI Cabriolet VW Polo Blue GT VW Cross Coupé Nissan Invitation Nissan Hi-Cross Nissan e-NV 200 Peugeot 208 Concept Peugeot 208 GTI Concept
and the Nissan e-NV 200, a battery electric compact , based on the multi usage NV200. Other cars by popular brands worth mentioning were the concepts by Peugeot. The new Peugeot 208 concept, the Peugeot XY concept and the Peugeot 208 GTI concept. The 208 is the successor to the Peugeot 207, a car which from the outside is smaller than its predecessor whilst the inside is more spacious. Engine sizes have also changed with the petrol engines now being smaller and more fuel efficient. Although presented as concepts the 208 range is set to be presented as production vehicles in the coming months. Definitely worth looking out for! As previously mentioned, the Wheelspin team this year made it a point to look out for other brands that are not as ‘common’ to us. Amongst the cars we looked at was the new Tesla Model X, an all electric crossover WHEELSPIN
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FEATURE • Geneva Motor Show
by Fleur Balzan
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Giugaro Brivido
vehicle. According to the brand, the car retains the brands strategy of producing EV’s which are also conventional. With an eye catching exterior and falcon doors offering better access to the 2nd and 3rd rows, this car proves that all-electric vehicles may actually be a thing of the present. A sport car that caught our eye was the ‘Brivido’ by Italdesign Giugiaro a car that may never be in production but which is surely worth looking at! With partially see through doors, eye catching swipes of light at the front and rear, futuristic looks both outside and inside, white leather seats and an unusual non rounded steering wheel, this car is one that most car enthusiasts would wish to drive. Another dream vehicle seen was the Bertone Nuccio, a car that has 8
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Bertone Nuccio
actually been built for one individual buyer. With a low angular silhouette, a lamp running the full width of the car in the front and in the rear and a fragmented pattern around the whole of the car, this vehicle was given the name Nuccio. The name came about as it was the nickname Giuseppe Bertone was known by. With Orange, upward turned edges on the upper body, and with a layered rear bumper and diffuser housing twin exhaust outlets, this car is particular to say the least! So many different model vehicles caught our eyes throughout our stay in Geneva and yet the one vehicle I can still look back at and still get the ‘wow’ vibe is the concept by Infiniti, the Infiniti Emerg-E electric supercar. Oh, maybe yes, I just love sport cars but mainly the ones that are also classy in some way or another and
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Infiniti Emerg-E
this car is definitely that! The car is stunning, with elongated sexy curves and with eyes (headlights) that make you want to get closer. Everything in this car is sculptured from front to rear and to top it up it is a plug in hybrid car filled with the latest technology. The car takes its power form two electric motors and has a 3 cylinder range extender engine which is just a 1.2 litre. Details of power etc weren’t made available however it is being said that this car reaches from 0 to 100km in just 4 seconds and may give around 400bhp. Definitely as thrilling as its looks!
Subaru eXtra Versatile Words and Images by Pierre Vella
F
inally, the cold days are over, spring has sparkled the countryside, injecting energy to take the country roads and experience life after the dreaded, cold dark wintry days. Yes you guessed correctly, no wonder after all those hints. I hate winter! Spring brings along blossoms in all forms and colours. My first spring blossom was a 40th celebration all wheel drive icon, a somewhat different crossover named Subaru XV. My first glimpse of the XV was in Frankfurt during the European launch. At the time the XV was the pinnacle of Subaru’s progression after the tsunami. One wonders, Subaru has been created around the all wheel drive concept, held record sales for its rugged Forester, a huge success with it Outback, so why the fuss about the XV? Simple, a UK critic labelled the XV, a car
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TEST DRIVE • Subaru XV
by Pierre Vella
that is destined to belong to non SUV devotees. So what is so special about the XV? Starting off, it is a Subaru, strong and reliable. Then the lines that make up this car. I labelled it the new Impreza with high heels in the sense that these high heels can take you places where low heels would not bother to go. Confidence in motion! Do not get me wrong, the XV can be enjoyed driven on rugged roads yet present itself perfectly for a stately banquet. This is what makes the XV so special, an urban adventure, as better known. I was fortunate to actually experience both petrol and diesel versions. The petrol version was being driven around by a very talented lady by the name of Fleur Balzan. One wonders what joy there is to be chauffeured around, but in my case Fleur was taking the car through its stride, with me reporting how the XV was behaving. Quite responsive, silent, comfortable, an excellent road view, high but not that high. A detailed cockpit, (though this is an area where Subaru might need a revamp), however the Orange coloured petrol version was adorned with all the available gadgets from a touch screen to record birthdays to an upper screen that illustrated how power was being transferred to all four wheels. Being an all new boxer engine with a lower centre of gravity I was disappointed. Do not get me wrong, it was not the power or the responsiveness of the XV but it is so very silent. Maybe one would argue, ‘is that a problem?’ well for me yes because I want that boxer to growl and not purr! However having said that, it still ticked all my boxes and the short drive I eventually did with the petrol version was very rewarding and relaxing. I still had an outstanding ambition, maybe a bit strange for Subaru but I wanted to experience the diesel version, even though ironically one of the best drives I had with Subaru was the first diesel version Impreza. Well the XV diesel version was available, so coupled up with a wonderful sunny spring day and a delightful white pearl XV, the day looked bright. The version was lower accessorized but today was a day to enjoy the performance of the XV, not the frills! From cold, the diesel engine could be heard, no big deal, heading for the north of the island, immediately the XV gave a sense of belonging! Though the roads were still quite damp, I felt comfortable to push. One disadvantage that all Subaru’s have is that they do take away the thought of what could go wrong. Appreciate that attention has to be given to one’s driving, the Subaru XV does adapt to the scenario quite instantly. I was soon surrounded by open fields, engine temperature was optimal and this is where I decided to push. Well the sensation that dashed through my body was not the speed but the growl of the boxer. Subaru had done it again, a diesel that growls, responds, not turbo lag, instant power. That’s it this car has ticked all boxes in a matter of a few seconds!! Engine noise in this regard made the car come of age, gearshift is smooth, flexible
ratios, no excessive rev yet incredible torque with minimal of fuss. The interior is quite comfortable with generous leg room for the rear passengers, a luggage boot with a high floor hiding away the spare wheel, a split rear seat to place large objects yet attaining the necessary comfort. Urban Adventure coupled up with safety and pleasure. A perfect blend to an all new Subaru crossover! The car driven was powered by an all new generation Subaru boxer diesel 1998cc DOHC turbo charged delivering 350Nm at 2400rpm. Combined consumption is 5.6 litres per 100 km. Specially developed for the European market, the car gives a high degree of smoothness, is lightweight, has a lower centre of gravity, has a compact design, excellent low rev responsive torque and finally is low in C02 emissions. Engine construction is an art! There is a reduction in bore length for more compactness. The block design uses a semi-closed deck type that has proven durability in petrol engines. Cooling channels propelled by oil give the pistons an optimum temperature, plus completely redesigned connecting rods reduce friction on the crank layout which is the location where stress engine pressure is exerted. An all new common rail system with specially designed injectors couple up with a bespoke variable nozzle turbocharger. The turbo was always clearly visible within a Subaru engine, now it goes beneath the engine resulting in better efficiency in heat dispersion and increased turbine efficiency with a new VGS mechanism. Finally, meeting European requirements, the engine is equipped with a closed diesel Particulate filter that combines in total improvement in engine combustion whilst reducing atmosphere particle deposit. An EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system complying with a EURO5 regulation status brings together an excellent engineered engine, one Subaru is proud of!
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ou may not have noticed (!) the start of the year was the harshest winter I have ever known. At one point to get to my son’s school it would have been quicker to go by boat. Seriously. The Regional road from my house to his school in San Gwann was actually quicker whilst flooded than going my usual route through the valley by car.
Although the tree lovers will say that we really needed the rain, we car lovers will not. Water and cars do not mix very well. How many times did you have to make your way around a broken down car in a flood? With the summer months now under way it’s time to give your beloved car some TLC.
---- MINI SERVICE ---Yep, it’s a word that some may love or hate. However, the smallest of oil changes can work wonders for your car. Jacking up the front end and undoing the sump whilst trying to fight the flow of the oil can sometimes be a challenge. Be prepared. Get a drip tray ready (or borrow a baking one from the oven). My 1.9 CDTi engine proved tricky. For €30 I managed to get mine ‘sucked’ out and replaced (not including filter). Changing things like the air and oil filter will make the car breathe more easily. I recently replaced the diesel fuel filter. Now, anyone that is strong enough to undo one of these things knows you have to have the strength of Samson to undo one.
Using a torque band was the most useful bit of kit I used. However, I recommend you get a mechanic to do this; I am still getting over the splash of diesel in my face. Once replaced the mpg will vastly improve. Adding a good screen wash (anti-bug cleaning) is a must. I tried a product called Xado (from €44.99). It is an atomic metal conditioner that can help restore worn metal parts of the engine whilst helping to improve performance. It is available for all engine types too. A handy bit of kit especially after those cold starts!
---- CONVERTIBLES ---There is nothing better than travelling the islands roads with the wind in your hair. With more and more coupe convertibles now making their way here they need some extra attention. My Astra Twin Top roof comes in three parts. It has four motors and looks like a Transformer ready for action. The first time I opened it after the summer I was shocked to find half the Libyan desert clogged up
If you have leather seats get them protected before the sun starts to crack them.
in the rubber seals. With the vibrations of our roads it’s amazing how quickly a seal can be eroded. A quick wash using a bit of washing up liquid to get rid of the gunk does the job. I followed mine up with a coating of Bumper & Trim gel (Autoglym) that protects the rubber/plastic for a few months. Regular coating really prolongs the life of the seals. (Don’t forget to lubricate the motors and hinges that power the roof, replacing one in Malta can be costly!)
Autoglym provide a kit for cabriolet owners. Although expensive it really does the job while at the same time giving a good clean. Oh, I also found a company that did wipes just for bird droppings! Useful if you park under trees.
For soft top owners as you know you are never a true convertible owner until you get a leak! The challenge of reaching for that old rag in the door pocket will become a thing of the past if coated with a water proof sealer.
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FEATURE • Tips for Summer
by Ben Glover
---- AIR CONDITIONING ---One of the greatest inventions for a car was air conditioning. It keeps the kids cool and quiet on a hot sunny day plus handy for keeping the picnic fresh in the passenger foot well. It can be costly if not regularly maintained. Having a fluid top up annually will really keep you cool. I found a garage in Gzira that would do it from
€30 and sanitize the air vents. If it starts to smell when you turn it on then it will need a clean. E coli and other bugs like to live in the air vents, the last thing you want with the windows up!
---- VALET ---My best part of the summer. There is nothing more satisfying than watching all your hard work shine in the sun. I am pretty sure it is a man thing. Jet washing your car of any dirt is a must (including the wheel arches). My local garage does the job for €3 (about 5 minutes); I love the challenge getting the entire car done before the
And finally... the electrics. Winter and car electrics are not best suited. Check for any moisture that could have shorted bulbs. A simple bulb kit online (from €12, Halfords) has all you need for most cars.
warning bell sounds. Don’t forget rubber and plastic can fade in our hot sun and they’re worth protecting. A coat of Back to Black is great for big bumpers; I recommend a gel based product. It can be a pain once you have polished your car with anything silicone based.
roof off (if it does come off) and enjoy the summer with your pride and joy...
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So there we have it! Get the windows down, get the
China
Two world champions and a novice
Words : Pierre Vella IMAGEs : Steve Etherington
australia
malaysia 16
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he opening stages of the 2012 F1 season were a thriller on their own. Even by the first three races there were three winners, two World champions and a novice. There is definitely no dominance up to the first away races!
malaysia
Australia was an assurance that the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes with Jenson Button was a solid title contender. Malaysia, with an unpredictable weather schedule promoted Fernando Alonso, who with an ailing Ferrari brought an unexpected win which might help the double world champion should Ferrari perform a miracle and cure to a winning racer. Shanghai’s F1 circuit inaugurated in 2004 is a high speed and technical layout with adequate run off area. With the weather being good, it was the first proper opportunity for some of the teams to show off their talent. The Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 team with their controversial yet legal DRS compiling an F-duct was qualifying effectively, yet for the first two races, the German team was burning out its rear tyres. Was this solved for China? Well, Hamilton’s five place grid relegation due to a leaking gearbox gave the team an all front row start,
however there was serious doubt if the car could hold in the competition. Nico Rosberg was first at the first corner when the lights went out and retained leadership, except for the brief pitstop routines, to finish the race with a two race strategy and an advantage of over 20 seconds.
It’s the first win for a works Silver Arrow since the 1955 Italian Grand Prix, on 11 September in Monza 25,671 days ago!
The victory is the tenth in Formula One for a works Silver Arrow, and brings the total number of MercedesBenz F1 victories to 90
Mercedes-Benz powered cars filled the podium for the second time in three years at the Chinese Grand Prix
The Bahrain race was also held though under controversy yet this will be discussed further in the next issue. WHEELSPIN
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Launches The BMW 3 Series Finally it is here, the new BMW 3 series and the official launch was recently held in Gzira at the Muscats Showroom which was transformed to welcome guests in what was a very welcoming atmosphere. Dim lights reflected on the white cloth partitions which separated the cars to be unveiled from the rest of the room. Following a short presentation two models from the BMW 3 series range were unveiled. The range of the new BMW 3 series includes the Luxury Line, Modern Line and Sport Line, all very distinctively striking and luxurious. We at Wheelspin tried out the 320d Sport Line on one warm day recently.
Mercedes B Class Another car launched in the lush way it deserves is the new Mercedes B Class from Kinds Autosales Ltd. The launch was held at the Mercedes Showroom in Lija which was transformed into an elegant dining room with all media being presented with a luncheon. The B Class is a luxury vehicle that is aimed to be used every day. It is compact yet still spacious and features the most modern technology systems including the collision prevention assist which is one of ten assistance systems available on this model.
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The car features a 1995cc engine producing no less than 163bhp and it reaches a high speed of 230km/h. It features BMW’s Efficient Dynamics and has amazingly low CO2 emissions at just 109g/km. The Sport Line Model driven has a particular distinguishable interior with red touches across the dashboard, and red stitching on the leather steering wheel and the black sport leather seats. Gorgeous, appealing, striking, alluring, only but a few words to describe this vehicle!
NEWS • Launches
Lexus CT200h One of the cars to reach our shores recently is a hybrid vehicle, the Lexus CT 200h. Our team had the opportunity to try out this car on our roads and we featured a full test drive on our TV programme too. This Lexus Hybrid is a five door family hatchback with all the luxury expected by the brand Lexus.
the car is being driven below 40kmph, the ECO mode which chooses the most economical driving, the normal mode and the sport mode. The sport mode gives better performance and handling and although sacrifices on the fuel economy a hybrid vehicle represents it is great to know one can experience the extra performance when desired .
Although classified as a compact car and is the smallest Lexus available, the inside is quite spacious and it is a perfect choice for those wishing to go for luxury in smaller dimensions. The car is perfect for the needs of a family plus, above all else, it is a hybrid therefore offering economy too.
The Lexus CT 200h may be viewed at the Michael Debono Ltd showroom in Zebbug.
The 1.8 litre four cylinder engine generates 98bhp yet when combined to the battery power, this reaches a total of 134bhp. The car is only available with CVT or continuously variable transmission which directs the power to the front wheels. It features four different driving modes, the EV allowing the driver to drive up to a mile in all electric mode, if
New Kia Rio One of the most recent launches held was that of the New Kia Rio, a five door hatchback which has completely changed from its predecessor. The Kia Rio comes in a choice of engines, Petrol or Diesel that all offer most features as standard. CO2 emissions are also low on this car with the Petrol 1.2 litre having 119gm/km and the 1.1 litre diesel being as low as 102gm/km. The Kia Rio may be viewed at the Cars International Ltd, Kia showroom in Qormi.
Continental Cars Ltd
VW and Seat arrivals These past weeks we have seen the arrival of a number of Volkswagen vehicles in Malta. These vehicles are the new VW Beetle, the VW CC, and the 3 dr VW UP. The Beetle is VW’ s icon which needs no introduction, the VW CC is a luxury coupe style sedan previously known as the Passat CC but which has now been renamed CC whilst the VW UP is the brands smallest number which is taking Europe by Storm. Also just arriving in Malta from Continental Cars is the latest model of the SEAT Ibiza, the brands most popular and most sold model. All these cars may be seen at the Continental Cars Showrooms in Msida and Ta’ Xbiex.
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by Ben Glover
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t’s about 2.30am on a Sunday morning. I’ve just been woken up by the loudest noise that could have come from the bowels of the earth. Yet I find myself forgiving it as, only 5 years ago I was doing the same. I am of course talking about ‘pimping your ride’.
law came into play a declaration must be made to any bits you add to the car, no matter how small. After checking with my own personal insurers it is usually on average 15% extra on the policy depending on what has been done. Yes, more money.
Living by a main road will indeed bring its racket with its buses, heavy trucks and men on two wheels dressed in leather looking like Power Rangers. This I can deal with. But the sound of an exhaust pipe the size of a dustbin sounding like the depths of hell is another matter!
In the UK police fines can now be handed out for having an exhaust that is too noisy. If the EC has its way here in Malta soon there will be some sad and angry drivers! According to the Times of Malta report last December The European Commission proposed to reduce noise produced by cars, vans, buses, coaches, light and heavy trucks. Noise limit values will be lowered in two steps of each 2 dB(A) for passenger cars, vans, buses and coaches. For trucks the reduction would be 1 dB(A) in the first step and 2 dB(A) in the second step. The first step is to apply two years after the publication of the text once approved by the European Parliament and Member States and the second step is foreseen three years thereafter. Whatever that means!
My first ever car that I ‘pimped’ up was a 1998 Vauxhall Corsa SXi in ‘Chelsea’ blue. (Yes it was a struggle at 6 feet 7 and a half to drive, that and being a girls car but I loved it). I’d saved up for some sexy Irmsher body kit including side skirts, a front air dam and light clusters that I thought looked as cool as a Lexus. Even the headlights had eyebrows. I thought I was the king revving the throttle at the traffic lights to impress the girls in such a small car that really sounded like a Ferrari. The 1.2 engine (yeah I know) was re-mapped, had the first ever K&N air filter for the Ecotec and with the exhaust system was packing just over 120bhp. In 2001 the car cost €14,000. The money I spent on it totalled €2,000. A year later it was worth half its value. In the second year the car was almost worth less than I paid for it. I could have bought a car with all the toys on it with less depreciation! Here in Malta we love our cars and in 2011 many have spent an average of over €5,000 on modifying rides. I wondered how this was possible so I set myself a challenge. I found an old favourite; a 1999 Honda Civic. One website was offering a body kit for €850, the cheapest alloy wheels for €860 (less the tyres), exhaust system €350 and lowering the thing to the ground just over €300. Totalling over €2,360! That’s worth double the car’s worth! Let’s face it with a pimped up car on our island’s roads you are more likely not only to sustain body damage but end up in Mater Dei probably with spinal injuries. And you know what? I would love every minute of pimping up my car right now…that is until the insurance quote. Malta is very lucky when it comes to reasonable car insurance. In the UK for my 1.2 Corsa SXi before modification the premium was £1500 (I was in my early 20’s and a DJ at the time). After modification it was almost double! By law you would have to declare all modifications as, if you were involved in an accident, the premium would be void. Thus no car, no body kit and probably no girlfriend! And Malta is no exception. Ever since European Commission
It’s a shame because as I approach my mid-thirties crisis I am dying to pimp my 16-year-old Daewoo Racer that only has one wing mirror left. Yet it would be money down the drain and with what I would have paid to make the car look good (in my eyes) I’d be able to afford something newer, quicker and above all cheaper to insure. So save your wasted pimped up money for something fast, elegant yet quiet and that will make everyone look at your beautiful machine without having heart failure…get yourself a Rolls Royce.
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THE RODEO OF CAR AUDIO By Mark Attard
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guess very few people would do without a little bit of music while they are driving nowadays! And if it’s not music, maybe a podcast or a favorite talk programme or a Sunday mass recording. Bottom line audio equipment is practically a standard in today’s cars. I remember the days when car audio was quite a luxury, and it was always considered an extra when we bought a new car. As for second hand deals, most sellers used to make it clear that the audio equipment was not included in the agreed price! Thieves used to feast on those well equipped cars, feeding the underground second hand car stereo market with hundreds of stolen sets, which were then sold for half the price, and still, they were worth a months pay! Car Audio was introduced in the early 1920’s by George Frost with a radio called Airtone 3D, but mass production of car radios started in 1927 and picked up in the early 30’s due to heavy marketing by Motorola. By the mid 1930s, AM car radios were common. In 1952 the first FM tuner to join the AM band in cars was introduced, although FM radio listening remained scarce all decade. Incredibly Chrysler also included a turntable in its Imperial luxury series, but the idea never caught on, especially in Malta. The reason for this was never discovered. The advent of the portable transistor radio in the late ‘50s created another way to listen to radio while moving in a car. 22
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During the mid 1960’s the 8-track tape player made its debut in Ford vehicles following the success of the 4-track tape players a few years earlier. This system of tape cartridges was very popular because cartridges were quite stable and gave the listener more control. An album was divided into four stereo programs, accounting for the eight tracks and the listener could select a program with the touch of a button. Although Cassette tapes were introduced in the early ‘60s, they only made their way into the automobile by 1970. Cassettes became the most popular audio medium in 1977, as 8-track tapes faded. Cassettes were smaller and easier to store and had sound quality that rivaled all audio formats. The surge in popularity of Frequency Modulation (FM) radio in the late ‘70s paralleled the development of car receivers that could pick up FM signals better while driving. The compact disc was introduced by Philips and Sony in 1982, and the first CD players in cars arrived in 1984. A year later, automatic CD changers began to appear in cars. The cassette remained viable through the ‘90s but inevitably was overshadowed by the CD. The cassette had been the best medium to-date for making “mix tapes” that were ideal for road trips. But people started making their own CD compilations following the rise in popularity of personal computers. DVD players first appeared in 1996.
The 2000s marked the acceleration in the development of portable digital gadgets. gadgets. Apple introduced the iPod in 2001, allowing up to 1,000 songs to be stored on a small player. The iPod and MP3 players became accessories for car listening, and car manufacturers introduced input facilities for these gadgets to plug into their audio systems. Recent Satellite technology features the Sirius XM, a satellite radio company offering hundreds of channels that can be heard around the world. We have discussed the past and the present of car audio technology and trends. so, what would the novelty be in the future? The latest development in cloud computing shall be leading us soon enough to a breakthrough in car audio, video and information systems. It is basically an internet connection to the car, which facilitates data transfer of our personal data to our current location. So being, all the albums we have (legally) downloaded, all our videos, ebooks or just any other data, can be downloaded to the car’s computer based audio-video system for us to use and enjoy. Apart from that, subscriptions to weather and traffic condition alert services around the commuters’ location, could be set to intervene and warn in advance of any inherent road hazards in the area, therefore making driving around more enjoyable, more efficient and most of all safer!
FEATURE • Online Crime
by Ben Glover
THE PORSCHE MONOLOGUES Rants from Stuttgart and Beyond {Part 10} | by JK Farrugia - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The Cayenne GTS
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orsche’s second generation SUV has undergone the steroid treatment resulting in the new GTS. This model brings us a more powerful engine, more dynamic power development, a tauter chassis with a lower ride height, and sportier levels of equipment. The Cayenne GTS differentiates itself clearly from the other models with its own special character. Under the bonnet we find a 420 bhp V8, which is based on the Cayenne S power plant. Delivery is ascertained by the eight-speed
Tiptronic S transmission with integrated auto start/stop mode. The performance is well past your average SUV territory: 0-62 mph clocks in at 5.7 seconds, with a top speed of 162 mph. The tuned chassis ensures exhilarating driving dynamics for an SUV. It is more tautly tuned, equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and sports suspension that lowers the body by 24 mm in comparison to the Cayenne S. This results in a tarmac licking Cayenne which is closer to the
sports car manufacturer’s trademark composure and agility. The Cayenne GTS’s looks openly proclaim its pronounced sportiness with eye-catching features such as the front-end borrowed from the Cayenne Turbo, frames and trims in high-gloss black, prominent side skirts and wider wheel arches as well as a distinctive roof spoiler. The interior is very refined yet reassuringly sporty, with a leather interior with Alcantara elements as standard.
The 981 Boxster S delivers jaw dropping laps at the Nürburgring
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orsche has just divulged the official lap time of Stuttgart’s baby around the famed Nürburgring circuit in Germany – the grueling racetrack that serves as a benchmark test for today’s sports cars. According to Porsche, its new two seat convertible crossed the finish line after delivering a 7:58 lap. That time may seem a bit off the pace when compared to heavy-hitters like the 911 GT2 RS (7:18), Chevrolet 24
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Corvette ZR1 (7:19) and Nissan GT-R (7:24), but it is plenty quick among its peers in the power range with its 3.4-litre flat-six pumping out 315 bhp, and strong enough to outpace the likes of American muscle such as the Cadillac CTS-V and Chevrolet C6 Corvette. Credit goes to Porsche’s commitment to keeping weight off the Boxster, widening its track and fitting the all new model with its capable torque-vectoring system.
FEATURE • Online Crime
by Ben Glover
40 years of the 911 Carrera RS 2.7
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012 is a particular highlight in Stuttgart’s history as the legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7, celebrates its 40th anniversary from its launch this year. Porsche is celebrating the event by displaying two racing versions of the 911 Carrera RS. The first is the 1973 vintage 911 Carrera RSR that delivered 330 bhp. The second is the ultimate RS incarnation dating from 1974, the 911 Carrera RSR Turbo with
its behemoth two metre wide rear end, which delivered a still sensational 500 bhp, even more astoundingly from a mere 2.1 litre displacement. The “40 years of the 911 Carrera RS” anniversary is rounded off by a 911 Carrera RS 2.7, that has been restored by the Porsche Classic workshop specialists.
the highly coveted “orange” Porsche bonnet badge of the 911 models from 1965 to 1973, no longer available since 1974. All other bespoke components which created these spectacular classics are available through Porsche Classic, including their mudguards, classic Fuchs wheels and many other parts.
Worthy of note for the obsessive porschephiles: as part of the celebrations, Porsche is rereleasing
Bespoke Britishness — the Kahn Design Panamera and Cayenne
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ahn Design has re-designed many a Porsche over the years. However, the end result of the 2012 Kahn Design Porsche Panamera and Cayenne take these two models into another styling dimension altogether. The Kahn Panamera’s wide track styling package consists of wide vented front and rear wheel arches with an integrated rear air dam, lower boot wing, Kahn lowered sports suspension system, billet aluminium side vents, red brake callipers and tinted rear lights, ensuring Kahn’s latest contribution to automotive design activity is on display for all to see. Kahn’s custom stainless steel quad exhaust system not only increases performance but also brings out the best of the Panamera’s vocal cords. The interior has been upgraded to
a magnificent level with a blend of claret quilted and perforated leather with the speedometer and rev counter facia in red and cream. Kahn is proud to provide its customers with the opportunity to express one’s individuality. Kahn famously boasts it can design a bespoke car with an exterior matching one’s shoes and an interior the same shade of one’s living room. Kahn wheels sit perfectly, on any vehicle, conveying the essence of the vehicle’s identity. Created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology, the 22” Kahn RS600 wheels are finished in any colour and fit all original centre caps.
aerodynamic styling package consists of vented front and rear wide wheel arches, integrated LED daylight running lights for front wheel arch vents, lower boot lid spoiler, liquid red brake callipers, full colour coded bumpers with matt pearl grey inserts, carbon fibre detailing on front bumper sections and sports suspension springs to name a few. A Kahn stainless steel quad exhaust system and 22” Kahn RS600 wheels complete the transformation of this Stuttgart SUV.
The approach Kahn Design took on the Porsche Cayenne was one in favour of an understated, sleeker vehicle The Kahn wide track Cayenne WHEELSPIN
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TRAFFIC & CAR REGISTRATION • NO END IN SIGHT • BY GeRald FeNeCh
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raffic in Malta’s roads has certainly become a crucial issue and is something which is consistently causing headaches to many as they go about their daily grind. The number of cars on our roads has risen to almost 350,000 and this actually shows no signs of abating with several thousand new cars being registered every year although there is also a strong second hand market which inevitably also increases the numbers accordingly. The number of luxury cars which grace our roads is also continually on the rise and this is obviously an important issue regarding space especially when one has to consider parking. In fact, parking spaces all around the island are at a premium especially in the large commercial centres and the situation has not improved with several ongoing projects which are currently being implemented. Traffic gridlock may be experienced in the rush hours towards the bust towns of Sliema and the capital city Valletta but we are also experiencing problems in other busy town centres such as Fgura and Paola where the intensity of traffic has increased considerably over the years. There has been some hullaballoo lately on registration of second hand vehicles imported from abroad as the
conditions have become rather more onerous and problematic, undoubtedly to deter those who wish to import cars directly themselves from abroad. As the legislation has kicked in now, it remains to be seen what the effects will be and how this will impinge on the number of cars moving around on our roads but it is obvious that the impact will be substantial. There has also been an imposition of increased licence fees and relative costs for new number plates which may also have an effect on new car registrations but so far it is slightly too early to tell whether this has been effective or not. —•—
ROADS – THE NEVER ENDING STORY The situation regarding roads is something which is always in discussion but lately with the continued closure of the roads leading to the airport, problems have increased considerably. Such projects can only continue to contribute to the confusion and huge traffic problems which already plague the area close to the airport and this shows no sign of abating, unfortunately. The state of WHEELSPIN
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FEATURE • Roads — The Never Ending Story
by Gerald Fenech
the roads which are now being used is deteriorating day after day and this means that sometime, these roads will themselves have to be resurfaced thus creating further bottlenecks and more enraged drivers as the situations gets steadily much worse. Another road which is being rebuilt is the one leading to the Gozo Ferry in Cirkewwa and this is also causing untoward hardship for motorists especially those who have to make the daily commute from Gozo to Malta and vice versa for work purposes. The works are extensive and also coincide with structural works on the ferry terminals with the result that there is no fixed timeline for when everything is to conclude. Notwithstanding all this, there are a number of good alternative roads which have been built to accommodate the traffic flow and the situation appears to be under control at least for now although bottlenecks still remain in the area. The issue as always is whether these road works are properly planned and whether we can do without them if they are not appropriately scheduled. Gozo is also going through considerable hardship with the interminable works going on at Mgarr Road with access to the Gozo Stadium and Rabat virtually zero. This has created interminable traffic bottlenecks, dusty and almost impassable dirt tracks and terrible wear and tear on vehicles. The fact that there seems to be no sign to the end of these works is also an issue as the gross inconvenience created is something
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which has to be experienced to be believed. In fact I was in Gozo for a couple of times to report some football matches and ended up completely lost before I reached the Gozo stadium not to mention the damage done to my car underside and tyres. Roads are a consistent hot potato in Malta and the situation should really be addressed sooner rather than later. Granted, we have had an extensive programme of road refurbishment over the years with a large number of roads, even residential ones having been completely rebuilt or resurfaced. But the fact that works have to take so long is an important issue which needs to be addressed and if motorists are to be spared the endless cavalry of running around on dirt tracks then so be it.
SPOT INFO
New 107: so urban, so cute!
Let your Nissan stand out!
The 107 is renewed, more modern and even more urban, a spirited response to the thirst for autonomy, independence and freedom! Its subtle and sophisticated style, inspired by the new look of the Peugeot Marque, gives it a new power of attraction. Attention has been paid to its appeal. It has become even more practical and fuelefficient. The Peugeot 107 evolves and is enriched with a regularly renewed range. The New Peugeot 107 retails from (€8150: scrappage scheme applied price)
€8800
Now on display and is available for test drives from Michael Attard Ltd in Blata L’Bajda.
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Attention all Nissan Juke and Qashqai Owners! Nissan have launched their great accessory packages at exceptional prices. From as little as €280, you can customise your Nissan Qashqai by installing body side mouldings, front and rear mud guards, a hard trunk liner, illuminated entry guards, telephone cup holder as well as the original Nissan Qashqai floor mats! From just €380, you can customise your Nissan Juke by adding front and rear styling plates, wind deflectors, illuminated entry guards, a rear bumper protection plate as well as the original Nissan Juke floor mats! The above prices include installation too! There are other accessory packages available on offer so if interested, simply call the Nissan showroom today on 21334196 or one of our salesmen on 99407554 or 99463750. Go on and let your Nissan stand out from the crowd!
for charitďż˝
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n the 31st March 2012, the annual MDRA for Charity in aid of the Malta Community Chest Fund was held at the Hal Far Race Way. The event was another success thanks to Mario Mifsud, better known as DJ Banana who has been organising this event for the last few years. Many were those who took their car or motorcycle to Hal Far to have it on show or else to race on this popular track. Present this year were the Ferrari Isolani Racing Team, the 2011 Italian Hill Climb GT Champions who participated in the event with 3 Ferrari Cars. The Wheelspin team supports this occasion and our colleagues that organise it and sincerely tells them well done!
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SPOT INFO
Let there be Spring Regular use of the right care products, also maintains the value of the car. First things to get busy on are the wheels. The dirt sticks especially stubbornly here. A high performance rim cleaner like the SONAX Xtreme Rim Cleaner makes short work of it, however. But be careful with aggressive products. They attack the wheel mounting bolts and other metal surfaces on the wheels. Despite its intensive working power SONAX Xtreme Rim Cleaner does not attack metal or plastics. A brush can be used to help out on difficult to access places.
Carnauba waxes, which is best worked into the paintwork with a care sponge. It contains no abrasives. After polishing out, one coat produces a rich shine and offers long lasting protection. When the paintwork is nearly new but appears slightly dull due to environmental stresses, then a “gentle” treatment, with a mild polish such as SONAX Xtreme Polish & Wax 2, is ideal. Micro-fine abrasives smoothen over the hairline cracks, a coating of highly concentrated Carnauba wax is worked deeply into every pore of the paintwork. Just a single application creates a barrier which air and water will find difficult to pass through.
Paintwork care is especially important now – start with a thorough wash During the winter months a volatile coating of soot, tar and oil has been deposited on the paintwork. First remove the coarser dirt with a powerful water jet. Next come bucket, water and sponge. With a splash of shampoo in the water, coarser grime is eradicated but the paintwork, and the hands, are spared. If possible, try not to stir up dirt particles deposited in the bucket! Now rinse off once again with clear water – there, clean. For manual washing, SONAX recommends their Xtreme Active Shampoo 2 in 1. Just 20-30 ml of the super concentrated shampoo in 10 litres of water is sufficient to wash the dirt from the car quickly, thoroughly and gently. When applied undiluted, it eradicates stubborn “blemishes” such as bird droppings and insect residues. Moisturising active ingredients care for the car even during washing. All-round exterior protection To give the vehicle’s outer casing shine and optimal protection, a paintwork polish is indispensable for every car, especially after the winter. However: To achieve an optimum shine result, the product must be attuned to the special requirements of the paintwork. For nearly new and cleaned and prepared paintwork, a pure hard wax such as SONAX Xtreme Brilliant Wax 1 is ideal. This is pure care. This best of waxes has a very high content of natural
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Extremely weathered and greying paintwork will require a highly effective abrasive treatment to strip off the destroyed top microscopic paint layer. This is accomplished by SONAX Xtreme Polish & Wax 3. Just one application restores colours and a deep shine, leaving the paintwork “like new”. Spring freshness for the interior To give the car a spring fresh look, one really has to tackle the interior as well. Tip: If possible use a silicone-free cockpit cleaner, to retain the matt effect. Otherwise the cockpit will seem “greasy” SONAX recommends their Xtreme Cockpit Cleaner matt effect, ideal for the care of matt and textured surfaces. The cleaner also has an anti-static effect. The application leaves a pleasantly fresh fragrance. sonax products are exclusively Kemimport ltd. Tel: 21492212
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