Wheelspin Magazine Issue 10 - Winter 2011

Issue 10 | Winter 2011

THE BOLOGNA & DETROIT MOTOR SHOWS

THE CONTINUOUS RISE IN FUEL PRICES

THE LOCAL SCRAPPAGE SCHEME SEBASTIAN VETTEL YET ANOTHER CHAMPION

Your heart says yes but your head says yes.

With excellent fuel economy, flexible seating and features like Active Park Assist, choosing the new Ford C-MAX is one of the most rational decisions you can make. Although its distinctive looks will make it feel like an impulse. Innovation in your hands.

The all-new FORD C-MAX

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PART EXCHANGE? NO PROBLEM! Gasan Automotive Centre, Mriehel Bypass, Mriehel BKR3000 Tel: 27788330 Fax: 27442007 email: automotive@gasan.com Gozo Garage, 5 Sir Luigi Camilleri Str, Victoria Gozo Tel: 21551866 / 21553734 Fax: 21556866 email: gozogarage@vjborg.com Website: www.gasan.com

ford.com.mt

Mazda Minagi Concept features Page 7

Page 14

Page 34

The Bologna Motor Show – An Italian Job well done

The Scrappage scheme – Finally a step in the right direction

The Porsche Monologue Part 5

Page 11

Page 16

The Detroit Motor Show – The new Motoring Year begins

The inexorable rise of fuel prices – Is private motoring getting out of reach?

Page 32

Page 37 Vettel, yet another champion Page 39 Valencia… end of story

So good, Solar I got you

snippets

regulars

Page 25

CENTRE PAGE PULL OUT POSTER

The Mercedes SLS AMG in Malta

including Feb 11 - Apr 11 Calendar

Page 41 The Gozo Grand Sprint Page 42 People and their wheels

LAUNCHES The Cars that have made it to Malta NEWS Motoring News from around the world

Page 30 A man who has done Malta proud Simon Giordmaina

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RENAULT MEGANE GT LINE DISTINCTIVELY SPORTY

The Renault Megane GT Line brings distinctive styling and genuine driving emotions with its sporty cues both inside and out.

Extra features include: Sports Chassis, Bucket Seats with GT Line stitching on headrests, Aluminium pedals and door sills, Dark Metal-coloured 17” Alloy wheels and Mirror housings plus a multitude of standard features - at a price that will make you smile! €20,700 for DY 1.6 Petrol and €21,830 for DY 1.5Dci Diesel.

Affordable ‘Fixed Price’ Service Packages available on all Renault Models.

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Auto Sales Ltd - Kind’s, Mosta Road, Lija LJA 9011. Tel: 23311126/23311131. www.renault.com.mt

ISSUE 10 / WINTER 2011

EDITOR’S NOTE

Fleur Balzan

PUBLISHERS b.Right new media Ltd. 19, Parish Street, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 3361, Malta

The first month of 2011 has come and gone and here we are again in February with another issue of Wheelspin, the 10th issue. I still cannot believe how time has gone by so fast and how your support for both our TV programme and Magazine has continued to increase at a very steady pace. For this we thank you.

EDITOR Fleur Balzan fbalzan@b.rightnewmedia.com

January has been another busy month for us as we have monitored the public opinion on the current scrappage scheme being offered by the government, besides other things. We have written about this government initiative which was long overdue however, we still feel from the public comments we hear and receive, that many people out there are not fully

CONTRIBUTORS Pierre Vella Gerald Fenech Mark Attard Jan Karl Farrugia

aware of how they can benefit from this offer.

Nonetheless, it seems that the scrappage scheme is doing well, and as you will read in one of the articles in this issue, the half way mark will soon be reached after just 3 months since the launch of the scheme.

Fuel prices have once again been increased and yes, most people are panicking about this fact. The anger and even fear at not being able to afford fuelling our vehicles and heating our homes has been felt by one and all but are we really

GRAPHIC DESIGN Alexandra Pace info@alexandrapace.com

paying the same for fuel as many of our European friends? Gerald Fenech looks into this matter as well as the new Public Transport privatisation in two separate articles.

On a more positive note we bring you the vehicles presented at the Bologna Motor Show held in December and the

HAIR Cut Coiffeur

North American Auto Show, better known as the Detroit Motor Show, held in January. If like me you love beautiful cars,

MAKE UP Shasha

Pierre Vella’s articles about Sebastian Vettel and the recent event held in Valencia by Ferrari will surely keep the Formula

these two articles should make you forget any negative thoughts, at least for a short while.

One enthusiast reading. As will Jan Karl Farrugia’s Porsche Monologue Part 5 which besides other Porsche vehicles, gives more information about the beautiful Porsche 918 RSR.

ADVERTISING & SALES Fleur Balzan (+356) 2157 6154 / (+356) 9980 5763

In this issue, the first issue of 2011 we have also included a new feature ‘People and their wheels’ as we find out more about different personalities and the vehicles they love or/and drive. We have chosen Moira Delia as our first personality.

Moira was the Wheelspin face for the 1st four years the TV programme was aired so it felt right to start off this section

PRE-PRESS & PRINTING Impressions Ltd., Marsa

with her.

Enjoy the read, whilst we continue gathering the footage and images of the cars to be launched in the coming weeks and months. That is after I dedicate the next couple of weeks to the other passion in my life, my music!

No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form for any purpose without the

Fleur

prior written consent of the publisher.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Hello Fleur, A big well done for the TV program and magazine you offer us. It is refreshing to see that at least one program has remained loyal to motoring. I love reading the articles on the magazine too. With Wheelspin I can be sure that what I read does not give me the impression that I’ve read it elsewhere.

Dear editor, First of all I want to thank you for the magazine as it is a very professional magazine and detailed on all your articles. I look forward to the magazine as it is interesting and full of detailed information. Keep up the good work and just wanted to point out that for us motor lovers it is a great pleasure to read your magazine and watch your program.

Thanks Jonathan

Mario Dimech Dear Fleur and all the Wheelspin team,

Dear Fleur, I always look forward to each issue of Wheelspin even though I do not drive. Maybe it is because I find it intriguing that you, a woman, can edit such a ‘male’ magazine. Even though now thousands of women care to drive a car, cars and all that comes with them are still considered very much a man’s world.

I’m lucky in that I have a good chauffeur – my husband!

Thank You, Jane Mifsud Hamrun

I look forward to your next issue and thanks for sending me the first two issues which were missing in my collection.

Peter

Dear Fleur, I had to write and say thank you for the international features you are giving us viewers. Although a lot of information is online when a new car is launched, it is so much better to see the video and not only pictures.

Keep it up and we hope your international visits remain dedicated to cars and motoring events.

Proset too for the magazine which I read from front to back every time and which I cannot bring myself to throw away.

When I first saw your magazine at my local petrol station I couldn’t believe that such a quality magazine would be free for long. I dare say that the content is just as professional and up to standard as many other international magazines (if not better quality) I buy at my newsagent yet it is better as the content is for the local people.

To editor, A note to say well done and can we please have some information on the Government scheme to change old cars?

Jennifer Tabone

P. Zahra

Write to us on wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com or Wheelspin, P.O. Box 24, St.Paul’s Bay and if your letter is featured, you will receive Wheelspin Merchandise. T-Shirts, caps, stickers etc.

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landrover.com/

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Bologna

motor show Italian Job well done!

by Fleur Balzan

Set in the beautiful, historical city of Bologna, in the

Plus, this years’ show promised to be quite

newest baby the A1 amongst them the colourful

North of Italy, the Bologna Motor show is another

exceptional since last year the motor show was

‘Follow me’ vehicle and the newly presented A1

event that portrays the Italian sense of style at its

limited to sporting and entertainment events as car

e-tron.

best.

makers opted out of the whole show.

This year this yearly event attracted a record number

When one visits these ‘smaller’ fairs, one has more

and has an electric power range of 50km. The car

of visitors, over 800,000 amongst them many Italian

time to dedicate to the various cars exhibited so it

has a 254-cubic centimetre engine and an electric

personalities. Well known drivers representing

was quite a pleasure to be going from one car to

motor, reaches 102bhp and can go from standstill to

different brands were also present, some of whom

another simply engulfed by the beauty and design

100km in just 10.2 seconds. It reaches a top speed

participating in the various motoring races held

of the various vehicles.

of 130km/h.

The Audi A1 e-tron is built on the A1 platform

during the whole period of the show.

On entrance to the Fair one was met by the Audi

The inside of the car is simply divine! The leather

The Wheelspin team was in Bologna to make sure

Stand situated right in the centre hall from which

interior in a cream, pearl colour, similar to the

Wheelspin viewers and readers do not miss out on

one had excess to all the other halls of the Bologna

colour of the car presented at the show, gives it that

the cars that are regularly presented worldwide.

Expo. On one side the stand was taken up by Audi’s

elegant, modern touch and the gear handle is

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on the race track while being intended as a road car.

The Ferrari 458 Challenge on the other hand is a car built purposely for the track. With a 4.5 litre V8 engine delivering no less than 563 bhp, this vehicle is breathtaking to say the least!

once again the new generation of the Ford Focus took centre stage at this Motoring event.

This is a beautiful vehicle which remains stylish even after a number of years have gone by.

From stand to stand, lost amongst the number of spectacular vehicle we got to the Nissan platform

Another member of the Ford family that I enjoyed

to be welcomed by the fabulous Nissan 370Z

exploring is the New Ford C Max, and this for a

convertible in an elegant dark grey colour. When

number of reasons. This car has an elegant design

the coupe version was presented locally, it left me

which to some may seem slightly conservative yet

speechless as this is one car with a style that got

the more you look at this car, the more you get to

Moving on through the halls one couldn’t avoid

me hooked!! The effect the convertible had on me

notice the subtle curves, elegantly sculptured to

noticing the prominence of the Italian brands

was even more intense. Beautiful, curvy, elegant,

create a vehicle whose looks will remain striking for

which were obviously very much at home with the

sporty even romantic with a ‘Z’ sign on the steering

a long, long while.

majority of the people present at the motor show.

wheel that leaves you buzzing!! The Nissan 370Z

particular yet subtle at the same time.

roadster with a soft top has a 3.7 litre V6 engine that produces 328 bhp. More than enough in looks and power to take it to number one on my wish list!

The list of cars at this motoring event can be non ending.

Mercedes sparkled with the Formula One race car as well as the Mercedes F1 safety car.

Land Rover attracted the crowd thanks to the Range Rover Evoque 5 door vehicle which in Bologna had its European Premiere, whilst the new Opel Corsa and Antara as well as the Citroen Survolt are

As expected, Alfa Romeo had the Alfa Giulietta, recently named ‘Auto Europa 2011’ on their stand. The Giulietta won this award

definitely worth keeping an eye on.

One cannot refrain from mentioning the premiere of the sporty, exotic and electric Peugeot EX1 concept

from amongst 40 finalists beating vehicles such as

Nissan vehicles were very prominent in this motor

vehicle presented by Peugeot in Bologna. This is a

the Citroen DS3, the Peugeot RCZ, the Volvo S60

show. The electric Nissan Leaf attracted a lot of

vehicle which is truly futuristic with a very particular

and the BMW 5 series Bertina. On show on the

attention as did the very recent Nissan Juke and

style. With 4 wheel drive and a maximum power of

Alfa stand there was also the Alfa Mito with one

sporty GTR MY2011. Also quite an eye catcher was

340 bhp, this car is a clear example of the advances

particular Mito being particular as the seats were

the zero emission Nissan Townpod, a futuristic

being made by some brands when creating clean

specifically built to be accessible by people with

electric vehicle which may be described as cute,

vehicles which still offer the thrill of the drive!

special needs.

clean, chic and compact!

One other brand that was well worth seeing was the Hyundai Stand. In Bologna Hyundai presented the sporty Hyundai Genesis, a segment in which the brand may have been lacking for a while in Europe.

The Hyundai ix20, recently launched in Paris, was The Fiat stand focused on the Fiat 500 twin air

also very prominent on the stand and this car

besides other Fiat models such as the Fiat Panda

will probably achieve a number of successes for

and Fiat Bravo as well as the Fiat Twin air engine.

Hyundai both in Europe and beyond simply for the

Maserati had on show different models amongst

package it offers.

them the Maserati Grand Turismo MC Sport Line and the Maserati Grand Turismo S MC Sportline in

There’s no saying how different brands are attracting

a beautiful purplish blue colour.

a younger generation through smaller, stylish cars.

The star brand amongst the Italian Group however was the Ferrari stand which had on show a number of Ferrari cars, from a Formula One car to other racing and street Ferrari vehicles.

Hyundai seems to be catching up on this trend, so much so that in stylish Italy it presented the Hyundai i10 Fiorucci and the i20 Fiorucci in colours and styles that are very trendy.

Ford is one brand that I’ve been keeping my eyes on recently. This brand is a favourite for a very important member of my family and so there is always a Ford vehicle attracting me to it.

This Motor Show featured the World Launch of the new Ferrari 458 Challenge, a car built on the Ferrari 458 Italia 2011 originally designed to hold its worth

8

The Focus is obviously an important icon for Ford and

9

10

DETROIT motor show The new motoring year begins!

by Fleur Balzan

In motoring, January means the North American International Motor Show or, as better known, the Detroit Motor Show. This event not only marks the start of the International motor events but, due to its importance, it also introduces some world premieres which most of us journalists will have a lot to write about over the coming months.

One of the companies most prominent in the NAIAS is, without a doubt, General Motors. GM is obviously at home in these American Motor Shows and many are the vehicles presented by this brand solely for the American market.

Amongst the cars presented by GM are the 2012 Buick Verano, a compact luxury sedan, the Chevrolet Sonic known in Europe as the Aveo, and GMC’s All Terrain HD Concept Sierra, a heavy duty truck with off road capabilities.

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BMW too is a strong brand in the American market. This is a very important motor show for BMW and the brand has devoted a 1 billion USD investment in America, as they said they would in the same Auto Show two years ago.

The brand chose this show to present for the first time, the beautiful BMW 6 series convertible, a dream car in every sense of the word, as well as the new BMW 1 series M Coupé. BMW also presented the new MINI Paceman Concept in this show, a car we will definitely hear a lot about and which will continue to strengthen the ever strong MINI icon image.

Other brands too had a lot to show in Detroit. Porsche made headlines with the presentation of the Porsche 918 RSR, which one can read more about in ‘The Porsche Monologues’ article in this same magazine.

Hyundai had the world premiere of the new Hyundai 2012 Veloster as well as the Hyundai Curb Concept, a Compact Urban Utility vehicle which is said to be the brand’s test of the future Hyundai Blue Link and vehicle connectivity technology.

Kia too had a new Concept car presented in Detroit. The KV7 is said to have SUV qualities while falling under the MPV segment. With a ‘gull wing’ door, a table top computer and seats which feel more like lounge seats than car seats, this car was designed by Kia’s California design team to challenge the idea that MPV’s are mainly for family transportation.

Other cars which definitely made a hit in this American Motor Show are the smaller vehicles, especially the electric cars. Amongst these vehicles is the Chevrolet Volt, a car which was also presented with the 2011 Car of the Year award in Detroit. The Volvo C30 Electric was also one to watch. A model of the

C30 Electric was presented on the stand with a frontal impact for the brand to show what the car looks like after it has been through a collision.

Another clean car to have its world launch in Detroit is the Toyota Prius v, a five seater MPV with 50 per cent more interior space than the Prius hatchback and which is powered

by Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive. With ‘v’ signifying ‘versatility’ the Toyota v offers a balance between space and style together with smooth aerodynamics.

The Detroit Motor Show for this year came to an end on the 23rd January 2011 yet the cars seen at this motoring event will continue being a topic of conversation for several months to go.

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0

park with ease

•

www.peugeot.com.mt

Combined fuel consumption (l/100 km): from 4,1 to 4,6. CO2 emissions (g/km): from 103 to 106.

107. TRULY URBAN. This model is within the parameters of the scrappage subsidy scheme recently announced by the Government for those persons eligible for the said scheme.

PEUGEOT

107

Michael Attard Ltd. – National Road, Blata l-Bajda – T: 2123 8854 – M: 79 406 607 – E: sales@michaelattard.com

207 Premium HDI PERFECTLY OVER-EQUIPPED

2000€

customer saving on the over-equipped 207 Premium HDI

Combined fuel consumption 4.2 l/100 km - CO2 emissions 110 g/km

www.peugeot.com.mt

To celebrate the 200-year anniversary, Peugeot offers its over-equipped 207 Premium HDI series (WIP Bluetooth, 15’’ Monaco Alloy Wheels, Overtint Glass, Climate Control Aircondition, Visibility pack, Rear Electric Windows and many other standard features). The 207 Premium HDI is a mix of modernity and style thanks to its list of features specially chosen for your comfort and driving pleasure. *Panoramic glass roof shown above is an option at extra cost.

This model is within the parameters of the scrappage subsidy scheme recently announced by the Government for those persons eligible for the said scheme.

Michael Attard Ltd. – National Road, Blata l-Bajda – T: 2123 8854 – M: 79 406 607 – E: sales@michaelattard.com 0209. Peugeot - 107 & 207 Scrappage Subsidy Scheme - A4 with 2 Hp's.indd 1

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30/11/2010 08:34

SCRAPPAGE SCHEME

Finally a FIRST step in the right direction

by Fleur Balzan

It’s been nearly three months since the Government

success with just under a quarter of the allocated

introducing charging stations to be ready once these

introduced the current scrappage scheme and

2,000 vehicles having been taken up within just 2

vehicles become a trend.

although, following it being introduced in the budget,

weeks of first launching. Soon after the beginning

many were the changes made, it definitely seems

of the year and just before going to print the amount

One might argue that our distances are short and

that this scheme has been welcomed positively.

taken up was over 750. It is worth mentioning that

therefore charging stations are not that necessary

one has to have a valid driving licence to qualify for

in Malta but our short distances and sometimes

the scheme!

inevitable slow driving behind traffic mean that

For years we have noticed the increase of cars on our roads and yet, the older cars which are well past their ‘use by’ date, remain persistently present.

power is used up faster, so what happens then?

All in all it seems that this scheme is proving to be a success and by the time the deadline of mid

This besides the fact that with our electricity rates

November 2011 is reached, we should see an

as they are at present, one might just HAVE TO look

increase in applications as new license holders may

at the affordability of such a vehicle and not just the

Up until now, owners of older vehicles either held on

decide to take up the incentive before it is too late.

clean environment it leaves behind.

to their cars as new cars remained quite expensive or

There is also the issue of LRP having stopped being

else opted to keep their car on the road as a second

available as of January this year. There is little doubt

car. Many preferred this option to getting nothing

that this fact may see many people finding the cost

in return for their older vehicle, therefore such a

of engine adjustments or the cost of fluids to mix

scheme had long been needed and it is a definite

with normal unleaded petrol to be too costly in the

first step in the right direction.

long run. These may also eventually decide on taking up this scheme and get a new car rather than fork out

The scheme as proposed allows owners of cars for private use older than 10 years to scrap their vehicle for a 15.25% discount on the CIF price (cost of vehicle to importer, insurance and freight) of a new car up to a maximum of €2,000. The new car one opts for should be no longer than 4,460mm with CO2 emissions being no more than 150g/km. These figures, although revised down from the figures that originally had to be proposed in the budget, allow for a number of vehicles to qualify for the scheme

more money weekly on fuel to run an old one.

One thing is for certain, the scrappage scheme has finally made new cars more affordable and the government should eventually give further incentives to new car buyers, especially those buying cleaner, smaller vehicles.

thus making the choice of vehicles quite large. As part of the scheme, first time car owners or those

One might say that the Government has already

who have not had a car registered in their name for

done so with the €5000 grant for the installation

at least 18 months, could qualify for up to €1,000

of a grid-connecting renewable energy sources for

reduction (50% of the actual scrappage scheme) on a

those purchasing an electric vehicle however, does

new car with the remaining 50% funding the cost of

the country at this point, have the infrastructure to

scrapping the vehicles.

cater for electric cars?

Electric cars are being introduced by most brands

Immediately on introduction, the scheme was a huge 14

worldwide however most countries have long begun

15

The Inexorable Rise of Fuel Prices is private motoring getting out of reach?

by Gerald Fenech

As the cost of crude oil continues approaching the inevitable USD 100 per barrel, the price of every fuel in this country is also inexorably on the rise.

of around 25 per cent. As everyone knows, diesel

other European countries but as everyone knows

is the fuel used by the large majority of industrial

comparisons are odious. The table indicates fuel

operators so this steep rise will undoubtedly have a

prices in the EU with Malta outlined in red.

One has to admit that as an importing country,

average fuel bill (assuming a daily use of a 1 litre

we are practically unable to control the steep rise

engine car) close to around EUR 70 per month – up

in the cost of fuel but surely prices as they stand

from an average of just EUR 50 about six months

today are at levels which warrant some sort of price

ago. This indicates a rise of about 33 per cent in

intervention by government.

average fuel costs for a small car. Add these costs

knock on effect on prices of essential items.

However the real loser in this whole equation is the private motorist who is now faced with an

to a regular one year service maintenance, the January saw the third rise in as many months

increased car circulation tax (the old license fee)

(including the rise in fuel duty in November as part

and ever increasing insurance costs and you are

of the 2011 Budget) which has now pushed prices

facing a bill of around EUR 1700 annually which is

to what can only be described as record levels. For

quite alarming as it represents an average outlay of

example a litre of Unleaded Petrol now sells for

more than EUR 120 per month which is almost the

*EUR 1.31 whilst a litre of Diesel now has gone up to

repayment of a small loan.

*EUR 1.21 – a staggering rise of almost 21c from just three months ago which means a practical increase

The government continues arguing that fuel prices in Malta are relatively cheaper when compared to

16

UNLEADED

DIESEL

HEATING OIL

Average amount in euro per one litre of Unleaded/EURO95.

Effective: December 15, 2010

Average amount in euro per one litre of Diesel.

Effective: December 15, 2010

Average amount in euro per one litre of Heating oil.

Effective: December 15, 2010

Austria Belgium Bulgaria Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Ireland Italy Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden United Kingdom

Austria Belgium Bulgaria Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Ireland Italy Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden United Kingdom

Austria Belgium Bulgaria Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Ireland Italy Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden United Kingdom

€ € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € €

1.24 1.50 1.15 1.13 1.31 1.50 1.19 1.48 1.36 1.47 1.58 1.31 1.32 1.42 1.13 1.25 1.23 1.27 1.58 1.20 1.44 1.14 1.31 1.26 1.24 1.47 1.45

€ € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € €

1.18 1.30 1.18 1.13 1.27 1.30 1.20 1.22 1.18 1.31 1.37 1.26 1.28 1.29 1.13 1.12 1.06 1.15 1.30 1.15 1.23 1.12 1.19 1.22 1.17 1.39 1.50

€ € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € € €

0.82 0.71 1.05 0.86 0.83 1.31 0.83 0.86 0.79 0.76 0.76 1.26 0.92 1.25 0.80 0.75 0.64 0.77 0.88 0.78 0.92 0.96 0.84 0.80 0.77 1.22 0.78

This table indicates prices in December 2010 so it is already dated as the price has gone up for all fuels. One interestingly notes that Austria, a country with a substantially higher standard of living than Malta has a price which is actually cheaper than Malta’s both for Unleaded Petrol as well as Diesel. Luxembourg which has an average GDP of 270 per cent the EU’s GDP (Malta is way back at 77 per cent) has a cheaper price for Unleaded petrol. Surprisingly Greece is abnormally higher at EUR 1.58 for a litre of unleaded petrol. Still if one analyzes this table, it is clear that Malta’s price is extremely high in real terms when compared to average income levels on the island.

Constituted bodies, unions and other social commentators have slammed the constant rise in fuel prices which have brought several sectors to their knees. There has been some movement on government’s part to offer some sort of compensation for the rise in these prices, however it would be useful if some revision of fuel duties and taxes would be considered even in light of the ongoing dispute between petrol station owners and government on profit margins. The future is certainly looking interesting. * Prices when going to print

NEW NISSAN MICRA

IN SYNC WITH THE CITY

www.nissan.com.mt

Starting from

€11,950

(€10,965 under Scrappage Scheme)

CO2 Emissions: 115g/km

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launches The All-New BMW X3

BMW have recently launched in Malta the last generation of the BMW X3.

The media event was hosted by Konrad Baumgartner, Managing Director of BMW Malta Ltd. together with Muscat Motors Ltd. The BMW X3 is available with two engine variants, the four cylinder diesel xDrive20d developing 184bhp and the petrol engine X3 xDrive35i producing no less than 306 bhp.

The fuel consumption of these two engines is quite good with the diesel engine burning 5.6litres of fuel for every 100km whilst the petrol engine consuming 8.8 litres per 100km.

The interior of the vehicle is very spacious and elegantly finished with high quality materials and with the use of fine wood trim and suble chrome.

The BMW X3 may be viewed at the Muscat Motors Showroom in Rue D’Argens, Gzira.

Renault Mégane Coupe Cabriolet

Seat Ibiza ST and Cupra… simply ‘Emoción’

Two vehicles from Continental cars Ltd. were launched in Malta in early November. These are both from the Ibiza range, the Seat Ibiza ST and the Seat Cupra.

The Seat Ibiza ST is an ideal family car, efficient, practical and dynamic. It is sporty in looks yet at the same time has the flexibility and space of a station Kinds Autosales Ltd have launched yet another beautiful vehicle from the

wagon.

Renault Mégane Range. This is the new Renault Mégane Coupé Cabriolet, a car

It comes in a choice of six modern engine variants offering a number of options

most appropriate for a climate like ours.

and technologies. The car is 4.230mm long, just 18 cm longer than the 5 door version yet still falling under the current scrappage scheme.

The New Mégane Coupé Cabriolet was launched at a Media event held in mid January at the Renault Showroom in Mosta Road, Lija where the car may be

Seat also launched the sporty Seat Cupra, a beautiful, sporty, compact 3 door

viewed.

vehicle with a 1.4 TSI litre engine offering 180bhp. It has a compact yet strong powerplant mated to a seven speed direct shift gearbox with steering shift

The car portrays pure elegance when the top is open and when it is closed, also

wheel paddles.

thanks to the distinguished glass roof which never once lets one forget that this

This is the 5th version of the Seat Cupra. It has a top speed of 225km/h and

is truly a cabriolet. The two-part roof opens or closes in just 21 seconds and is

reaches 100km from standstill in just 7.2 seconds, with emissions at only 148g/

fully automatic with an electro-hydraulic opening mechanism.

km. Both cars may be seen at the Seat showroom in Testaferrata Street, Msida.

The Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet comes with several high tech features amongst them the hands free starting and hands free locking as the card holder moves away from the vehicle. It also has automatic electric parking and automatic dual-zone three mode climate control plus many other features.

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The Nissan Micra’s keeping it Simple Boasting breakthrough packaging and small-car engineering, the all-new, fourth generation Nissan Micra has finally made its way to Malta.

Retaining its compact dimensions, high speed capability and superb visibility; the Nissan Micra has earned its ‘top of the class’ positioning. With a turning radius of just 4.5m and several new technological innovations that help minimise CO2 emissions and mileage, the Nissan Micra has definitely been designed to simplify day-to-day life for its owners.

The Nissan Micra is being offered at an outstanding price of just €11,950

with a further saving of another €986 for those qualifying for the scrappage scheme! The basic model includes Power Steering, Remote Central Locking, ABS with EBD, EPS, 6 airbags, Front Power Windows, Board Computer, 14” Alloy Wheel Covers, CD with Bluetooth and Aux Jack and Air Conditioning.

Each car comes with a 3 year warranty on parts and labour, 12 years anti corrosion warranty and 10% off parts and labour when servicing it at the Nissan garage.

Two New Vehicles from Fiat

The Nissan Micra may be viewed at Nissan Motor Sales Ltd showroom located at Antonio Bosio Street, Msida or at the Gozo showroom located on Mgarr Road, Ghajnsielem.

Hyundai ix20 in Malta

Two new vehicles from Fiat’s professional range have arrived in Malta. These are the Fiat Doblo Cargo and the Doblo Panorama.

According the Francesca Mamo, Managing Director of UCIM Co. Ltd, these two vehicles play a prominent role for the brand and ‘they are expected to reconfirm Fiat’s role as the leading import brand for commercial vehicles’.

The Fiat Doblo Cargo is the first vehicle in the small van segment to be awarded the award for the Van of the Year 2011. The model comes in a choice of two

The Hyundai ix20 has finally arrived in Malta. This is a very stylish, spacious and

different lengths, a short wheelbase of 2755mm and a long wheelbase of

practical vehicle which is an ideal alternative to an MPV.

3105mm.

The design of the vehicle is elegant with smooth curves and flowing lines. On The Fiat Doblo Panorama, on the other hand, can seat up to seven people whilst it also has a large luggage compartment. It is a very economical model with fuel consumption of 5.2 litres/100km with its 1.6 multijet engine developing 105bhp.

Both vehicles may be seen at the Fiat showroom in Psaila Street, B’Kara

the inside it offers space and versatility with features such as folding, reclining rear seats which make it even more ideal for family transportation.

The model is available with both petrol and CRDi diesel engines, both including intelligent stop and Go technology.

Like many of the Hyundai models, the ix20 qualifies for the current government scrappage scheme and comes with Hyundai 5 Year Triple Care package.

The Hyundai ix20 may be viewed at the Hyundai showroom in Valley Road, Msida.

25

New VW Passat Continental Cars Ltd, local representatives of Volkswagen in Malta, have launched the New VW Passat a vehicle which has been much awaited locally.

The official media launch was held at the VW showroom in Ta’ Xbiex on the first week of February.

The New VW Passat is a beautiful stylish sedan which comes in a range of luxury features and driver assistance systems together with a choice of VW advanced efficient engines.

Amongst the various features are the Stop/Start function which helps to reduce fuel consumption and also a new fatigue detection system warning the driver when one should consider taking a break.

The New VW Passat may be viewed at the Volkswagen showroom in Princess Margaret Street, Ta’ Xbiex.

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26

ASSOCIATED MOTORS CO. LTD. Mriehel By- Pass, Mriehel. Tel: 22 781222. e-mail: honda@zamgroup.com SB AUTOCENTRE - Mgarr Road, Xewkija, Gozo. Tel: 21 556773

www.honda.com.mt

B

Buses privatisation

are fare differentials justified?

by Gerald Fenech

As the privatisation of the public transportation

fresh talks would be held between Transport Malta

that the scheme conformed to EU regulations.

service went through with much fanfare last year,

and Arriva.

However when one analyzes the whole context of this fares debacle, it does seem that the government

consumers and patrons are none the wiser over the controversial fares scheme which has even brought

Transport Minister Austin Gatt has repeatedly

and Arriva are talking out of their hats here. The EU

the ire of the EU Commission down on Malta. The

insisted that the new bus fares schedule conformed

is found on the basic principle of complete equality

basic tenet of the matter is that the fare structure

to EU rules after a spokesman for the EU Transport

between nation states so one cannot discriminate

differentiates between local and foreign users with

Commissioner was quoted as saying that the

on the basis of tax paid and such like to use a

the local tickets being substantially cheaper than

Commission would look into the new fares

service. This is not a situation of ‘no taxation

those for tourists.

structure. He (the Commissioner) also said that EU

without representation’.

rules did not allow discrimination on the basis of When asked about the fares anomaly in a press conference held recently, Arriva Malta’s Project

nationality.

One also hopes that come July 3, when the new service will start operating, we will not experience

residents.

Dr Gatt has repeatedly denied that the issue was nationality and said the only qualification was residence.

He said the decision to have such a fare structure

He said that ordinary residents of Malta would pay

The new bus service will be operating on an

was discussed and agreed during the talks with

fares which were equivalent, and in some cases,

improved network with a number of new termini

Transport Malta. Such a structure, he said, had

cheaper than at present. Fares for non-residents

and interchanges. The new network would be

been implemented elsewhere and it made sense in

would be only €12 for seven days, which was

65% bigger than the present one and all routes

that both sides believed that regular users – who

very competitive when compared to other tourist

will operate between 5.30 a.m. to 11 p.m. with

invariably were residents – should be rewarded.

destinations.

additional night services to St Julians. There will

An official for the company pointed out that there

He said that the reason for this distinction was

will be equipped with a GPS locator to ensure that

were similar distinctions between residents and

simple. The residents of Malta paid tax here and that

buses ran on time. The contract with Arriva even

tourists being made in Estonia and Venice, on

funded the subsidy for lower fares for pensioners

established a maximum waiting time, failing which,

services not operated by Arriva. However, Arriva

and students. This, he said, was a fair system and a

the company would be fined.

itself was piloting a similar scheme on the islands

logical one. People who paid taxes to subsidise the

of Minorca and Mallorca, Spain. Mr Marlow said

bus service should enjoy a lower fare. Dr Gatt said

that should the EU deem the structure to be illegal,

all legal advice given to the government showed

Director Pierce Marlow preferred not to comment on the legality of having a two-tier fare structure which differentiates between residents and non-

the disaster which happened on New Year’s Eve when in a public relations debacle, it was advised to use public transport to travel to Valletta and no buses turned up.

also be more information at bus stops and each bus

27

Stunningly sculptured Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

One of the most stunning super sports cars, the

reaches 100km from standstill in just 3.8seconds

marking the 125th Years of Mercedes’ anniversary

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, was in Malta recently as

and it has a top speed of 317 km/hr.

from the invention of the automobile was shown.

part of a fund raising activity for charity.

With gull wing doors, a muscular stance, an On arrival of this breathtaking vehicle, Kinds Auto

extended bonnet and a short rear, the Mercedes-

Sales Ltd, local representatives of Mercedes-

Benz SLS AMG is inspired by the Mercedes-Benz

Benz, held a special event at the Mercedes Benz

300SL of 1954.

showroom in Lija during which the car was unveiled

Its curves and creases are perfectly sculptured,

to the delight of all those present.

whilst a low and wide grille, gilled flanks, flared wheel arches, a shallow glasshouse and a cabin

The Mercedes-Benz SLS is a Gull-Wing Sports Car

positioned towards the back all indicate the

which is fascinating simply by looking at it. What’s

immense performance and ability of the vehicle.

underneath the bonnet is equally intriguing, a 6.3 litre V8 engine which delivers 570bhp. The vehicle

28

On the same occasion an audio visual presentation

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Official fuel consumption for the new Legacy Diesel range in mpg (L/100Km): Urban from 35.8 to 37.7 (7.9-7.5). Extra Urban from 51.4 to 55.4 (5.5-5.1). Combined from 44.1 to 47.9 (6.4-5.9). CO2 Emission from 156 to 168 (g/km).

LIACO LIMITED Lia Buildings, Mosta Road, Lija LJA 9012 Tel: 2141 8111 - sales@subaru.com.mt

A MAN WHO

DOES MALTA PROUD

by Fleur Balzan

We are a small country and certain things are even

His thoughts then were that if he could come so

experienced

more difficult for us to achieve, but definitely not

close when so new to the sport, if he had to put his

control unit). The team had spare parts available

problems

with

his

ECU

(engine

for the lack of talent! We may struggle to keep up

mind to it, he’d achieve much more, and so he did!

for practically everything else but no second ECU. Simon thought that all was lost to him and that

with the rest of the world in most sports and events, mainly for financial reasons, yet one man who has

He set his goals very high and started taking part

the months of preparation would go to waste, yet

achieved a milestone while representing Malta is

in different local championships in the street bike

this was not to be the case. Thanks to Graziella’s

none other than our own Simon Giordmaina, a man

class. He won the first championship without losing

(Simon’s wife) willpower, the couple decided to

nicknamed the fastest man on two wheels!

even one race and so went on to race in higher class

spend their family savings to replace the ECU so

championships which he also won. Again without

that Simon could continue with what he had gone to

losing any race!

Germany for. To race!

became hooked on Drag Racing on his motorcycle.

2010 was a grand year for Simon. He set his mind

The next morning there were 3 ECU’s to choose from

According to him, before this date, he never knew he

to represent Malta in the NitrOlympix held on the

and although Simon had lost two qualification runs,

could drive a motorcycle let alone race one, and yet

Hochenheim circuit in Germany, the 2nd biggest

the team got to work to have the motorcycle back on

today his life is taken up by the sport which he has

such event in Europe. He started preparing himself

the track. Because of the runs lost, Simon had to do

and is still sacrificing a lot for.

and his Suzuki Hayabusa Turbo, even acquiring the

the next run in less than 8.3 seconds to qualify and

help of an American Champion who arrived in Malta

this he managed and in 8.1 seconds too!

Simon is a 31 year old man who, since the year 2000 has seen his life change completely as he

The first event he took part in was one held in Hal-

purposely. During his training sessions at the Hal-Far

Far in which 7 motorcycles competed. Then he was

Raceway, he even managed to reach a new record

One run after another saw him move closer to his

practically untrained and new to the sport and yet

for his category, so much was his determination!

goal until he won his last race for just 0.03 seconds, a race against David Smith, the only racer in Europe

he managed to reach the final spot losing only to a much more experienced driver.

Once in Germany and at the first race Simon

known to have exceeded the 200mph mark in super street bikes.

Due to weather conditions the team had to return home without completing the runs but Simon had already achieved so much and had done Malta proud. He had won every race he ran and had made a name for Malta and himself, something we have no doubt he’ll go on doing in the years to come!

30

31

so good

SOLAR i got you

by Mark Attard

I don’t know why the human race took so long

were severely limited in power due to the efficiency

charged and that is why the idea of a hybrid car has

to realise that the sun is there for us, to give us

of the panels at that time. Also the batteries and

made the whole idea more practical and effective.

all the energy we need to commute. Hundreds of

their weight were a major drawback to produce a

A hybrid car would still have a fossil fuel engine

experiments on solar powered vehicles have been

viable vehicle. However nowadays both the panels

installed to make sure the car goes at all times,

conducted during the last few decades and the

and the batteries have been upgraded in efficiency

sunny or not, but obviously an intelligent control

results were simply successful.

due to innovative technology and further research

system on board would opt for the solar powered

in this field and therefore, viability is more real.

motors when the batteries are charged up. Such a

Could it be that the oil producing companies did not like this and they bought off the patents for these success stories only to keep them hidden in a drawer till the world’s oil supply is out?

We shall never know. What we actually know,

car would save up to 60 % on fossil fuel compared The range of batteries that are generally used in

to the conventional cars.

solar cars, vary from those that are made of lead acid to Lithium and Polymer material batteries.

Solar power, is clean, is available, has been tried

However the latest addition to power storage now

and tested, all we need is to invest in it. However

owes itself to extra large capacity capacitors and

it is quite evident that the governments in certain

it seems that this technology would, in the near

parts of the world, Malta included, are reluctant

future, take over the power storage market due to

to take the necessary measures to ensure that

its cost effectiveness and power to weight ratio.

everyone benefits from this energy. Some petty benefits are given on an ad-hoc basis to mask this

however, is that finally the awareness of renewable commuting energy is spreading all over the globe

Ok now let’s talk about the cloudy side of this

disinclination, but the reality is that the authorities

like a disease and the need to tap into this God

success story.

still want the people to spend their money to buy

sent opportunity is now getting clearer with the

the planet’s natural resources and reducing co2

Obviously, even in the most sunny places on earth you cannot avoid a cloudy day, and also the night falls everyday on everyone (except for the midnight sun somewhere in the arctic circle for a month or so..).

emissions. The earlier designs of the solar cars

Well, the batteries cannot last forever if they are not

evolution of the solar powered vehicles.

A solar car typically functions by solar energy which is primarily obtained from solar panels on the roof of the car. This is definitely a great environment friendly gadget where the sun’s energy is directly converted into electrical energy, thereby saving

32

fuel (and therefore pay the taxes included in its price) rather than invest in solar power technology.

So Good, Solar, I got you …….. Now let’s do something to utilize you a little bit more…

33

Porsche monologues the

Rants from Stuttgart and beyond - Part 5

by Jan Karl Farrugia

34

The Porsche 918 RSR – a Racing Laboratory

Cayman S, the new mid-engine coupé is designed

Porsche is continuing to extend its performance

The mid-engine coupé is powered by a tuned 3.4-litre

generation. The 3.8 litre flat six delivers 408 hp,

and high efficiency competence via intensive

flat six developing 330 hp. Power is transmitted to

23 hp more than the Carrera S. The seven-speed

development work in the field of hybrid technology.

the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox that

PDK delivers the power to the rear axle fitted with

With the two-seater mid-engined coupé, the 918

propels the car to 62 mph in 5.0 seconds. Moreover

a standard diff lock. PASM and Porsche Ceramic

RSR, the manufacturer clearly reveals what happens

there is the option of the seven-speed PDK gearbox

Composite Brakes (PCCB) are standard, too.

when the technology fitted in the 911 GT3 R hybrid

that reduces its acceleration time to 4.9 seconds. The

and the design of the 918 Spyder are transferred into

Cayman R can be supplied with the Sport Chrono

The 911 Speedster features almost all the optional

a modern, innovative super sports car.

package, taking its acceleration time down to an

equipment of the 911 series and its interior is

impressive 4.7 seconds. Top speed is 175 mph.

furthermore meticulously hand-finished in black

With

its

highly-efficient

flywheel

accumulator,

the 911 GT3 R hybrid racing car proved to be an attention magnet during competition racing on the Nürburgring, during the American Le Mans Series held in Atlanta, USA and the ILMC run in China’s Zhuhai. It revealed massive performance potential under realistic motor racing conditions against top competitors. The 911 GT3 R Hybrid, referred

for increasingly sporty road behaviour.

The new Speedster combines classic features with further improved performance of the current 997

Porsche revealed that the main aim during the design of the Cayman R was to improve the two-seater even further in its performance, driving dynamics and agility through consistent weight reduction.

to internally as the “Race Lab”, actually surpassed the high expectations of Porsche Motorsport. From

With an unladen weight of just 1,295 kgs, the

the tradition established by classic Porsche long-

Porsche engineers were able to reduce the power-to-

distance race cars such as the 908 long-tale coupé

weight ratio of the coupé to 3.9 kgs per horsepower.

(1969) and the 917 short-tail coupé (1971), the

The weight savings were achieved through the use

Porsche designers created a postmodern link. In

of lightweight components and doing away with

the 918 RSR, the car’s elegant lines are dominated

some convenience equipment. Adopted from the

by muscular wheel arches, dynamic air intakes and

911 GT3, the 911 GT3 RS and the Boxster Spyder, the

a pulpit-like cockpit. A visible fan wheel between

Cayman R can also be equipped with a lithium-ion

the ram air intake tubes and a rear spoiler with RS

lightweight battery.

leather. There are also several colour painted details exclusive to the Speedster. These include checkerboard patterns in the seat centre section of the adaptive sports seats reminiscent of a chequered flag, and the leather side bolsters are dyed in the exterior colour.

The Speedster is available in only two exterior colours: either “Pure Blue” which has been developed exclusively for the Speedster, or alternatively the traditional Carrara White.

It also features a special front apron, sideskirts and a distinct rear apron.

The 1st edition Speedster was launched in 1953 based on the Porsche 356, which had two bucket

Spyder hints additional emphasise to the racing heritage. Motor racing technology also dominates

The “R” has been lowered by 20 millimetres

seats, doors with slide-in plastic side windows and a

within the particularly light, torsionally stiff carbon

compared to the Cayman S, and has a distinctive

shortened, elegantly curved windscreen. In 1988, the

fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque. The V8 is

fixed rear spoiler, as well as numerous sporting

Speedster based on the 911 Carrera celebrated its

a further development of the direct injection engine

highlights on both the interior and exterior. These

revival with the 2nd edition, which also introduced

from the successful RS Spyder race car and now

include blacked out headlights, black exterior

the characteristic double bubble hood compartment.

offers an output of precisely 563 hp at 10,300/rpm. In

mirrors and “PORSCHE” lettering on the side which

In 1993, the 3rd generation Speedster was ushered

addition, the electric motors on the two front wheels

is a clear reference to classic Porsche racing cars.

based on the 964 platform.

each contribute 75 kW, to the peak drive power of

This precise lettering was in fact the trademark of the

exactly 767 hp.

first Porsche with the “R” designation, the 911 R of 1967. It was based on the standard 911 coupé with a

In contrast to the 918 Spyder concept, the interior

210 horsepower Carrera flat-six engine and weighed

of the 918 RSR is a pure unadorned racing cockpit.

in at just 830 kgs. The new Porsche Cayman R will go

Instead of the futuristic, ergonomically avant-garde

on sale in Europe from February 2011.

centre console with touch-sensitive user interface from the 918 Spyder concept, in the 918 RSR’s cockpit we find a minimalistic console with rocker

The Porsche 911 Speedster: the 4th Edition of a Legend

switches. Instead of a second seat, the flywheel accumulator is positioned to the right of the console.

This flywheel accumulator is an electric motor whose rotor rotates at up to 36,000 rpm to store rotation energy. This additional power is available for around eight seconds when the system is fully charged.

The Porsche Cayman R

Very low-slung. Very sporty. Very rare. Words which embody the 911 Speedster. Paying true homage to the first Porsche model that bore the name Speedster, the 356 Speedster, the production for 4th edition is limited to 356 cars. The two-seater is significantly different from the rest of the 997 family.

60 millimetres lower, with a more raked windscreen, the sleek manual hood, and the characteristic doubleThe Porsche alphabet reserves the letter “R” for very

bubble hardcover for the soft top define the striking

special sports cars: R for responsive and refined –

profile of the new 911 Speedster. This makes the

but most especially for racing. The new Cayman

body of this rear-wheel drive with its turbo-bodied

R is 55 kgs lighter and with 10 hp more than the

44 millimetre wider rear stand out even more.

35

New Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet New Renault Megane Coupé-Cabriolet brings head-turning looks, plus a genuine sense of freedom thanks to its panoramic glass roof and the forward position of its windscreen.

The large glass roof provides an enjoyable ‘open-air’ experience, even when the top is raised.

Available with a 1.6 16V 110hp, this powerplant is acclaimed for the driving pleasure afforded by its punchy performance, easy pick-up from low revs and sprightly response at higher engine speeds.

The Megane Coupé-Cabriolet is an open invitation to enjoy open-top motoring, and is an elegant illustration of Renault’s new brand signature, ‘Drive the Change’.

For more information or to book a test drive please contact Auto Sales Ltd on 23311126.

The Peugeot 207 Peugeot 207 Premium is the vehicle that adds to your driving pleasure, and not to your spending totals.

In celebration of Peugeot’s 200 year anniversary, the top range Peugeot 207 is being offered with a €2,000 saving, at a price that nears the entry level. The Premium version includes Climate Control, USB, Bluetooth and Alloy wheels from just €15,800 instead of €17,800.

The car qualifies for the current scrappage scheme which means a further saving of €1,500 for those eligible. The car is fitted with the latest HDi70 Euro5 engine emitting 110g/km CO2 with consumption at 65mpg or 4.5ltr/100km.

View the car at Michael Attard Ltd, Blata L-Bajda or call 79406607 for more details.

For Sale Fiat Stilo 1.9 JTD. (Reg. 2003), 3 Door Diesel.

Colour Black, Beautiful Sporty drive and very economical. One owner. Original spray, Alloy wheels, factory fitted alarm plus other extras. Tel: 99420045.

New Toyota Aygo Go! When the going gets tough, AYGO Go! will make

Not only will it guide you to where you want to go

The 4.3-inch navigation screen offers a bird’s eye

life behind the wheel that bit calmer thanks to a

to, it will even tell what the weather will be like when

route view and can also display playlist and album

bundle of multi-media features to keep motorists

you arrive and flag up points-of-interest along the

details and SMS messages, with a handy speech-to-

on course, in touch and in tune. The latest addition

way – including filling stations. The sat-nav comes

text facility if required.

to Toyota’s city car line-up comes as standard with

along with Bluetooth and a USB port for connecting

a removable TomTom satellite navigation unit that

iPods and other digital music players to the audio

AYGO Go! adds a healthy helping of extra style,

has touch screen controls and a voice recognition

system, which itself provides a CD player that can

too, with new-design alloy wheels, dark-tinted rear

function.

play MP3 files from disc.

privacy glass and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

New exterior colours are Chilli Red and Cirrus White, with metallic Carbon Quartz available as an option.

Air conditioning can also be specified, together with the dedicated AYGO Style and Protection option packs.

AYGO Go! is available in both three and five-door body styles and is powered by the ultra-frugal International Engine of the Year award-winning 1.0-litre three cylinder VVT-i petrol engine with manual or MultiMode transmission.

For more information on the New Toyota Aygo Go! visit the state of the art Toyota showroom situated in Mdina Road Zebbug log on www.toyota.com.mt and also join us on our ToyotaMalta Facebook page.

36

Vettel

e n. s

e e

n

.

Yet Another Champion words & images by Pierre Vella

We are just at the threshold of the F1 season 2011,

championship list when was appropriate to clinch

reserve drivers to Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica.

with the teams’ launches all scheduled within the

the title.

That same year due to an unfortunate incident in Canada where Kubica was involved, Vettel

first test session in Valencia, first week of February.

As is customary, the benchmark for 2011 will be

Merit has to go also to Red Bull for a masterpiece-

deputized in the US Grand Prix and scored points

beating last year’s winners. Winners for sure as

racing car with an obvious winner when Adrian

being the youngest ever driver in Formula 1 with his

both team Red Bull and Sebastian Vettel had the

Newey is involved. Many were the innovations

eight position classification.

upper hand on the competition in a spectacular

that showed up on the car and imitated by the rest

manner.

of the teams, such as the bottom effect exhaust

The following year in 2008 Vettel moved to Toro

system. I felt that the 2010 championship was

Rosso as he was part of Red Bull young drivers’

also a continuous race to the limit. Many were the

school, but few ever imagined that Vettel would

mistakes that both teams and drivers staged with

score his maiden F1 win on a soaked track at

also reliability being a determined factor.

Monza. Incidentally, the legendary Aryton Senna

Sebastian Vettel is the ever youngest grand prix winner of all times. He was my favourite from race one where Ferrari had shown dominance and won the race.

did likewise in same conditions but a different track I took the liberty to illustrate some of my photos

(Portugal). Winning in Monza had also a special

tracing Sebastian Vettel story to becoming world

feeling as a few years earlier the Toro Rosso team

champion. My first encounter with Vettel was

was Minardi, an Italian team which was also known

However, I just felt that Sebastian Vettel had the

Valencia during the 2007 BMW Sauber F1 launch

as the Cinderella of F1.

parameters to beat the competition and he lead the

where Sebastian Vettel and Timo Glock were

37

The following year 2009, Vettel was upgraded to the Red Bull team pairing Australian Mark Webber.

This proved to be the perfect cocktail with the team showing intense momentum and had it not been the double diffuser of the Brawn GP, the Austrian team might have taken the championship a year earlier! In that year, Sebastian Vettel ended runner up to British Jenson Button who clinched the World Championship.

The winning year 2010 was a year of mixed feelings.

Sebastian Vettel charged furiously in the initial part of the championship with reliability being a negative issue, the there was a psychological effect within the team and drivers. I felt at the time that Vettel might miss the boat with Mark Webber emerging more consistent and stronger. It was a fact that the rivalry within the team was on a negative graph with both drivers creating barriers and splitting up the strength of the team. This was always being denied by the team personnel but the rift continued way on after termination of the F1 championship.

It was towards the end of the season that Vettel showed a no die attitude and was cutting down the advantage of his predecessors.

Abu Dhabi was the final straw with a string of events that coupled up the misfortunes into fortunes within the race. A stunning race by the German! Personally, Sebastian Vettel has grown up dramatically within 2010 resulting in winning the championship when others would have settled for second place. His energy and mental determination will only make him excel more should the team provide him with a reliable and competitive car in 2011.

38

Gozo grand sprint The

Sport, the Malta Tourism Authority, the Island Car Club and the Valletta Grand Prix foundation showed

Special guest was none other than Ari Vatanen 4

that when organisations get together, an event can

times winner of the Paris Dakar Rally and World Rally

only be a success.

Champion in 1981 and 1997. Ari Vatenen was also recognised for his success in Motor Sport when he

November 2010 saw the first edition of the Gozo

received the Gregory Grant Award.

Grand Sprint taking place over a two day period

A total of 83 drivers and their teams participated

in Gozo. The event organised by the Malta Council

in the event with some foreign drives coming to

for Sports together with the Malta Motorsport

Malta specifically for the occasion. Amongst these

The Gozo Grand Sprint, an event which most Motor

Federation (MMF) in collaboration with the Ministry

were Alessandro Modica and Alessio Cascone, two

Sport enthusiasts will hope to be held every year.

for Gozo, the Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth and

Sicilian Motorsport drivers.

39

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17332 - Mira Spark Wheelspin Oct 10 Ad.indd 1

23/09/2010 14:50

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VALENCIA, END OF STORY words and images Pierre Vella

It is a fact that the F1 2010 season was a thriller from

favourite venue) or else at Monza. In 2009 I missed

realized that the attendance, especially from the

start to finish! Few were those that argued that this

out going to Valencia hoping that the 2010 edition

Ferrari Epoca (Historic) was rather limited, however

would be the case but it showed that even with rules

would return to the Mugello. Unfortunately this was

when I moved inside the garages of the Ferrari

changing, teams and drivers will fight it out to win

not the case so I guess I had to take the plunge and

599XX program, who needed anything else? The

the world championship for all it takes.

fly to Valencia after all. Flights during off-season can

599XX had replaced the FXX program at Ferrari. The

be quite competitive and this was a case of no refusal

XX program is Ferrari’s way of fine-tuning a specific

because due to budget restrictions I managed to

road car within its production line and the model on

squeeze a fantastic three days breeding just Ferrari

test is taken to the limit. A limited number of models

spirit. These events are very well organized and

are made and these normally belong to the super

entrance tickets with an additional extra will get you

rich but access to these cars and their drivers is a

straight next to the action. From wondering down

real treat.

The Ferrari team with Fernando Alonso was definitely the biggest loser from the rest but this did not stop the team in indulging in a grand finale with the Ferrari Finals 2010 staged on the circuit Ricardo Tormo on the outskirts of Valencia.

the pit lane to strolling inside the garages where the prancing horses are stabled, plus a generous buffet for the duration of the weekend.

The car looked majestic inside the garage yet little did I know how mind blowing this would be when driven brutally on track!

This is one of my regular events, which I try to attend

Arriving at Valencia airport on the Saturday, we

if any spare funds are left over after having spent

soon procured a car and within thirty minutes, we

nearly all my savings attending a handful of the

were in the midst of the action, parked and armed

season’s Grand Prix. To be quite honest, the Valencia

at the entrance of the circuit. It was biting cold with

Oh yes we had already clocked over 200 photos

adventure with the Ferrari finals started in 2009 when

overcast clouds. The weather forecast was not a

inside the garage, prudently asking the guys working

Fernando Alonso signed with the team and I guess

healthy one but as it had stopped raining I soon

on the cars to hover here and there to get a better

it was Spanish sponsor Santander’s request to have

armed myself and started snapping anything that

shot.

the event on Spanish soil. In past editions the final

was red and standing on four wheels. For sure

event was normally staged either at the Mugello (my

my first reaction was a bit of disappointment as I

It was time for the first race of the day with 430

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championships coming to a close in that weekend

about the Ferrari’s pace. It was Saturday evening,

memorable days, time seems to drive by faster

event with the model. In 2011 the championship will

traffic was bad and I feared the worse. My GPS was

then the action on track and the climax of the event

be run with the 458 which up to Sunday acted as

instructing to turn right where right was stationed a

was approaching. It was early afternoon having

a safety car during the 430 races. One good thing

massive concrete block. After trying hard to arrive

witnessed the historic and the F1 ‘clienti’ on track,

about the Valencia circuit is that it is compact and

to my destination I finally felt that I had to drive

emerged the F1 team headed by Luca Montezemolo

from the grandstands, you can actually view the

on instinct. Luckily I knew the place from a former

and all the king’s men with Fernando Alonso, Felipe

entire track. However I had other plans as I intended

visit. Finally, my resting place was in sight, after a

Massa, Giancarlo Fisichella and Luca Badoer. They

to go out on track to be close to the action! The 430

good two hours driving, doing Valencia by night. On

walked down the track to greet the fans whilst an

championship is one of close racing and witnessing

inquiring at the hotel, I was told that the roads had

array of Ferrari road cars took to the track in parade

three cars coming in to take the corner is just mind-

been altered with concrete bollards as there were

fashion.

blowing.

major works going on. Well we soon settled for the

After a thrilling race it was time for intense anticipation, the F599XX to take to the track. The weather was dull, with freezing temperatures but rest assured that this did not bother me at all.

night looking forward to the next day with a bleak

Soon both Fernando and Felipe were strapped not

weather forecast.

to their F10 but to a F500F2, which had just been restored, and a Ferrari 250 Testarossa to do some

Next day was an early start to try and arrive at

laps to the delight of the crowds that had packed

the circuit prior to the crowds. Looking out of the

the grandstands. Following was a display joined

window, though still dark, I could see the stars

by Luca Badoer in three F10 and affecting some

glittering their last moments as the sun was striving

stunning laps. Finally, all three cars lined up on

to emerge at dawn with thick clouds lining the

the home straight and decided to bring their tyres

horizon.

to shreds with doughnuts, oh yes I was on the pit wall and I guess the photo illustrated says it all.

What’s for sure is that I was shivering once the F599XX sped past me on the back track hitting the

After breakfast, I was soon behind the wheel

Fantastic time and once more a thrilling experience,

brakes and watching the front disk glowing red.

and heading for the circuit, temperature of three

an event that has to be experienced and one need

The program does not prescribe actual competitive

degrees. Once arrived, it was cold but I am quite

not necessarily support Ferrari.

racing but all the drivers have a program that has

familiar with this type of weather and once at Paul

to be staged. However even though no winner is

Ricard during a Renault F1 launch the temperature

declared, there is still the visibility of competition

was reading -3 degrees. Once at the circuit Ricardo

on the track.

Tormo armed with a hot coffee, I strolled again in the garages where activity was starting to come to

It was soon getting dark even though it was not

life and behold, the clouds, with the unexpected

very late and now it was really cold and time to

wind, were heading away from the circuit.

pack up and head for Valencia where we had to spend the night and enjoy the atmosphere. It was

Competition

minutes in our estimated hour trip to Valencia when

spectacularly as the track was still damp and

the clouds decided to show their might and rain

many were the cars that were losing grip due to

was dashing to the ground possibly still thinking

cold tyres and dampness on the track. On these

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on

track

soon

started

quite

People & their

Wheels

Name: Moira Delia Age: 39 Occupation: TV presenter and producerPresent production: puss in boots.

Education officer for dogs trust.

Can you imagine yourself without a vehicle?

I can’t imagine myself without a car, it’s part of me!

a fast lane and a slow lane or simply love being

I look forward to driving my car whenever i need to

selfish when on the road!! e.g indicators are there

go out! I actually prepare my ipod so I can listen to

for a very good reason - use them! And last but not

some good music on the way!

least drivers who install the new bright white light in their cars- its simply pathetic-those should be

At what age did you learn how to drive and when did you get your drivers license?

Is there a dream car you’d love to drive/own?

I got my drivers license when I was 18 and started

Yes...the new Nissan Qashqai....I’m in love with it!

to drive immediately since I had a brand new Suzuki

I want it!

illegal -it blinds other drivers!

What would you like to say to other drivers?

Stop making your cars noisy and unattractive!

Jeep outside my door!

What do you love/hate whilst driving in Malta or

Spend your money elsewhere or get yourself a toy!

Which was your first car and how did you get to

abroad?

Drive safely- you’re not a formula one driver and the

choose it?

Our roads never seem to get any better!!! And

road is not a racing track!

I was and still am into Jeeps! It’s fun having a Jeep

drivers who still can’t tell the difference between

in Malta especially if it comes with a soft top! Mine did and I made the most of it when I was still 18!

A good/bad memory whilst driving: One of the worst moments was when I skidded and turned 360 degrees with a car I was driving! The road was very slippery and I completely lost control of the car!

What car do you drive at present and how do you find it?

I drive a Mini Cooper at the moment. With regards to safety the Cooper feels solid I must say and I love the drive but I think for a Cooper it’s a bit weak when using the car’s AC together with speed.

What do you look for in a car?

In a car I look for comfort, a good drive and power!

I also can tell if a car is solid or not! Although my Cooper comes with normal AC, if I had to choose between climate control and normal AC I would definitely go for the climate control- that’s what I call comfort! A good sound system is a must and the cooper has that feature!

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