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British car manufacturer Bentley has taken another step in delivering its class-leading environmental strategy. Bentley now guarantees 85 % recyclability and is becoming one of the first carmakers in the luxury vehicle bracket to take such a step as well as providing environmental friendly recycling or recovery at the end of the car’s life.

This recycling achievement has now received official recognition from the German Motor Transport Authority (KBA). In a ceremony in Berlin, KBA’s President Ekhard Zinke presented the official European-wide certificates to Dr. Arno Homburg.

By meeting such stringent recycling standards, Bentley guarantees that other industries will be able to reutilise or otherwise reprocess the vast majority of materials used in the construction of its cars. Consistent use of these types of resources has coincided with improvements in manufacturing processes. Use of gas, water and electricity consumption has declined by around a quarter over the last nine years, although the number of cars produced has increased by up to ten times over the same period.

Dr. Homburg elaborated on the company’s long-term objectives: “Bentley is remaining true to its unique combination of performance, craftsmanship and comfort, but we still want to play our part in saving resources at the luxury end of the carmaking industry.”

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: iCar Automotive News

Click the link above this article for more automotive news, iCar is an independent webzine for a daily fresh input of automotive news. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

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Panasonic Toyota Racing driver Jarno Trulli made an emotional visit to the Abruzzo region on Italy this week as part of his efforts to help those affected by last month’s earthquake there.

As a native of the Abruzzo region, having been born and raised in Pescara, Jarno is raising money for the victims of the April 6 earthquake through his ‘Abruzzo nel Cuore’ (Abruzzo in the Heart) appeal.

On Wednesday Jarno paid a personal visit to Abruzzo, visiting first the small village of Onna, which lost 39 out of its 250 inhabitants when the 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck, where he met survivors who are now camping in tents alongside the ruins of their homes.

Jarno said: “I was shocked to see the devastation firsthand; so many buildings have been destroyed and the effect on the people’s lives is really terrible. Every one in the sporting circuit helps a hand and I doing my best to help. Hopefully we can raise a lot of money to help with reconstruction so the people of Abruzzo can return to a normal situation soon. They are in our hearts.”

The ‘Abruzzo nel Curoe’ appeal has already raised more than €23,000 while several items of Formula 1 memorabilia have been donated by fellow drivers and these will be auctioned to raise further funds.

If you wish to contribute to the Abruzzo nel Cuore you can do so via http://www.abruzzonelcuore.org.

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: iCar Automotive News

iCar is an independent webzine for the car enthusiast and brings a daily fresh automotive news. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

Motorbike fan? Have a look at: Motor Klassiek for Classic Motorcycles Oldtimer Motoren

The name says it all, and it has a legendary resonance: Mille Miglia. From its inception, this road trial covering 1,000 miles was considered the ultimate challenge for drivers and cars alike. Those who stayed the course in the Mille Miglia proved not only their competitiveness in motor sports but also their automotive engineering prowess.

Between 1927 and 1957, the Mille Miglia was staged 24 times in northern Italy. It was a spectacular event for many thousands of motor sport fans and a perfect stage for race drivers such as Tazio Nuvolari, Stirling Moss, Rudolf Caracciola, Juan Manuel Fangio and Fritz Huschke von Hanstein. But the Mille Miglia was also a crucial trial of strength for car manufacturers. It celebrated its revival in 1977 and has kept alive the spirit of classic car racing ever since. In 1925 four young men from Brescia, as wealthy as they were enthusiastic about motor racing, had resolved to turn their home town into a hub of motor sports. Two years later they saw their plans come to fruition. Henceforth, the start and finish line in Brescia would take on a carnival atmosphere, with the drivers and their automobiles enthusiastically celebrated by the numerous spectators who flocked there.

Each year racing fever spread throughout the land and not only because the cars that dominated the event were initially of Italian manufacture.

With classic car enthusiasts celebrated its revival in 1977 and, as a reliability trial for historic vehicles, has kept alive the spirit of classic car racing ever since. Nowhere other than between Brescia and Rome is the history of motor sport and automotive engineering celebrated so intensely and impressively. The Mille Miglia storica pays homage to the design engineers and their creations, which continue to inspire professionals and aficionados to this day.

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: iCar Automotive News

Click the link above this article for more automotive news, iCar is an independent webzine for a daily fresh input of automotive news. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

Interested in classic motorcycles or fan of special bikes? Have a look at: Motor Klassiek for Classic Motorcycles Oldtimer Motoren

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: Automotive News

At the 37th edition of the Nürburgring 24 hour race on 23/24 May, Porsche is again one of the most popular manufacturers for the competitors. A total of 29 Porsche vehicles are expected to compete at Germany’s largest motorsport event. 

Taking up the race as title defenders with starting number 1 are Porsche works drivers Timo Bernhard (Germany), Marc Lieb (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) as well as Manthey pilot Marcel Tiemann (Monaco). They drive a Porsche 911 GT3 RSR with 480 hp. In 2008, the squad under team boss Olaf Manthey secured a hat-trick by winning the Nürburgring 24 Hours for the third straight time. Timo Bernhard is not planning to leave it at that: “It would be a dream to win four times in succession. But, changes to the technical regulations have braked in our 911 GT3 RSR considerably. Particularly on the uphill sections, the straights and when lapping cars, you notice a substantial power loss compared to last year. To match the pace of some of the much more powerful opponents could be difficult.” 

Another three Porsche factory drivers man the second Manthey Racing vehicle, a 445 hp Porsche 911 GT3 Cup S. Emmanuel Collard (France), Richard Lietz (Austria) and Wolf Henzler (Germany) share the cockpit of the #2 car with professional racer Dirk Werner (Germany). “While Emmanuel and Dirk have already gained a lot of experience on the Nordschleife, Richard and I are newcomers to this fantastic circuit. We’ve only contested one race in the Long Distance Championship,” explains Wolf Henzler. “Still, apart from the length of the track, some of the Nordschleife corners resemble several circuits in the American Le Mans Series. i think getting used to the special features of the ‘Ring would not be too difficult.”

The 37th edition of the Nürburgring 24 hour race takes off on 23 May at 16.00 hrs. The flag drops on 24th May at 16.00 hours.

iCar Automotive News (see the link above this article) is an independent webzine for the modern car enthusiast. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

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More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: Automotive News

A one-of-a-kind 1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300(serial no. 2311237) will make its North American Debut at the 30^th Anniversary Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance on August 2, 2009. This exciting performance car is a one-off alloy Boattail Speedster formerly owned by Angela Cherrett? noted authority and author on Alfa 8Cs, and will be presented in unrestored condition.

“We’re thrilled that the owner of this thorough-bred vintage race car has chosen the Meadow Brook Concours as the venue for its North American debut,” said Matthew de Larcinese, Executive Director – Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance. “This addition to the show field is certain to be a crowd pleaser!”

Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 (serial no. 2311237) began life as a factory show car in 1934 before being imported to Britain by London Bentley Dealer Jack Barclay in 1935. The new owner promptly ordered a new two-seat touring body designed and constructed for the race chassis. As was customary at the time, many of these automobiles were supplied to custom coachbuilders such as Pinninfarina, Zagato, Figoni, Castagna and Touring.

It remained in the U.K.until its purchase last year by a noted American collector. 

Tickets for the 2009 Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance are now on sale by calling 248.643.8645. Online sales will be available soon at http://www.mbhconcours.org/tickets.htm. 

Ticket prices

Adults (in advance): $25

Children 12 years and under: Free

Groups of 10 or more: $20 each

About Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance:

Held annually during the first week of August on the historic grounds of Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester Michigan, the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance is considered one of the most prestigious classic automobile exhibitions in the world.  In 2009 the Meadow Brook Concours is celebrating its 30^th anniversary. Additional information about the 2009 Meadow Brook Concours, can be seen at www.mbconcours.org. 

About Meadow Brook Hall:

Located on the grounds of Oakland University, Meadow Brook Hall is the fourth largest historic house museum in the United States and is renowned for its superb craftsmanship, architectural detailing and grand scale. Built in the late twenties as the residence of Matilda Dodge Wilson (widow of auto pioneer John Dodge) and her second husband, lumber broker Alfred G. Wilson, the 110-room, 88,000-square-foot, Tudor-revival style mansion is complete with vast collections of original art and furnishings.

iCar is an independent webzine for the car enthusiast and brings a daily fresh automotive news. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

Interested in classics and special motorcycles? Have a look at: Classic Motorcycles Oldtimer Motoren

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: Automotive News

The Renault-Nissan Alliance has formed a partnership with the Energy Market Authority (EMA), the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Singapore to explore the development of Zero Emission Vehicles Program. 

Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in the presence of Lawrence Wong, CE of EMA, Dr Beh Swan Gin, MD of EDB, Yam Ah Mee, CE of LTA and Thierry Koskas, Renault Electric Vehicles Programme Director, the organizations have agreed to set up working team of representatives and promote introduction and expansion of electric vehicles in Singapore. 

“EV development is an exciting new area particularly relevant to the Singapore context. Singapore is well-positioned for the deployment of EVs due to our relative small size, urban environment, robust electrical grid and IT infrastructure,” said Mr Lawrence Wong, Chief Executive, EMA. 

“Renault and Nissan aim to become leading brands in zero emission vehicles. Singapore is for us a key priority, as the geography of the country and the focus on environment issues make fast and strong development of electric cars,” said Thierry Koskas Renault electric vehicles programme director. “We are looking forward to working closely with all partners involved to make this project successful.”  

 The Renault-Nissan Alliance has begun ZEV initiatives in Kanagawa Prefecture and Yokohama in Japan, as well as in Israel, Denmark, Portugal, Monaco, the UK, France, Switzerland, Ireland, China and Hong Kong. In the United States, the Alliance is exploring ways to promote zero-emission mobility and the development of an EV infrastructure in the State of Tennessee, the State of Oregon, Sonoma County and San Diego in California, and Tucson, Phoenix Arizona, Seattle in Washington and Raleigh in North Carolina. 

The Alliance has formed partnerships with 26 governments, cities and other organizations to advance the deployment of EVs worldwide. 

The Renault-Nissan Alliance The Renault Nissan Alliance, founded in 1999, sold 6,090,304 vehicles in 2008. The objective of the Alliance is to rank among the world’s top three vehicle manufacturers in terms of quality, technology and profitability. 

EV Taskforce 

To spearhead Electric Vehicle (EV) test-bedding and infrastructure development in Singapore, a multi-agency taskforce chaired by Energy Market Authority (EMA) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been set up with members comprising the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Economic Development Board (EDB), National Environment Agency (NEA), Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources (MEWR) and Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI).  

The EV taskforce was set up to assess the benefits and applicability of adopting EVs in Singapore. It will draw up the overall plan of EV test-bedding and evaluation of the environmental and economic benefits, with a view of a potential larger scale adoption of EVs in future. The taskforce will work with key industry players to examine infrastructural requirements, policy requirements and new business models arising from EVs, as well as identify industry development and R&D opportunities. It will also look into educating the public on EV technology though a nationwide EV sharing programme or through corporate fleets. Funding for interested parties to develop infrastructure and buy electric vehicle will set aside during the test-bedding process.  

Energy Market Authority Energy Market Authority (EMA) was formed on 1 April 2001 as a statutory board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry to forge a secure, long-term electricity industry that thrives on healthy competition. New market structures have been created to promote competition in the electricity and gas industries. EMA will also continue to promote cost-competitive outcomes for consumers by ensuring a level playing field for competition within the electricity and gas. As co-chair of the EV Taskforce, EMA endeavors to establish strategic partners for test bedding, identify power grid regulation/licensing for EV charging systems and develop relevant codes and standards. Land Transport Authority a statutory board under the Ministry of Transport (LTA). LTA plans the long-term transport needs and spearheads land transport developments in Singapore. LTA addresses wider issues such as sustainable development, economic growth, and community life, while serving commuters by providing an integrated and user-friendly transport system. LTA helps ensure that relevant regulations, standards and infrastructure are in place and is a co-chair of the EV Taskforce. LTA looks forward to working with leading companies such as Renault-Nissan to develop innovative transport solutions. 

Economic Development Board EDB is the lead government agency for planning and executing strategies to enhance Singapore’s position as a global business centre and grow the Singapore economy. In so doing, we attract economic opportunities and jobs for the people of Singapore, and help shape our country's economic future. EDB’s role in the MOU is to work with industry partners like Renault-Nissan to jointly identify industry development opportunities such as manufacturing and R&D. The MOU is aligned with EDB’s positioning of Singapore as a “Living Laboratory” where leading-edge urban mobility solutions, such as electric vehicles, are tested, developed and exported to the rest of the world. 

iCar is an independent webzine for the car enthusiast and brings a daily fresh automotive news. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

Interested in classics and special motorcycles? Have a look at: Classic Motorcycles

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: Automotive News

Bring on the summer! The new MINI Fresh Up collection features a wide range of materials and accessories to ensure that you have the perfect outfit for the warmth and sun. Devotees of good taste will find all they want from an urban stroll through the city to a refreshing trip into the countryside. This stylish collection offers cool graphics and much more besides. 

Fresh Fashion Highlights. 

Striking prints are seriously cool this summer. Among the highlights for men is the casual Arts & Letters Tee with round neckline and punchy print on the front. The use of colours brings out the message “Life is more interesting with a few twists and turns” to great effect. 

This very clear statement also fronts the Ladies’ Highlight Dress, with crystals giving the print an extra lustre. The sporty sleeveless dress catches the eye with its large stand-up collar and practical hem drawstring. 

The Men’s Stripy Fashion Shirt and Ladies’ Stripy Fashion Blouse are all about delivering that rock star feeling. Both styles are cut to emphasise the contours of the body, and feature grey and white stripes and a classic collar. The distinctive “Tattoo” print on the back lend them the requisite rock’n’roll flavour. 

The Ladies’ Hooded Tee, meanwhile, takes a sexy route with its draped neckline and large hood. The stylised “Girls” silhouette on the front makes the pink T-shirt a real eye-catcher. 

Accessories for the asphalt. 

The Ladies’ Convertible Bandana allows the modern girl on the move to glide through the sunny season without messing up her hair – but with a lot of style. This headscarf can be worn on either side (simple white or powerful pink) to suit your outfit. 

The three new additions to the MINI Eyewear collection will round off your outfit perfectly. The DUBLIN and VIENNA sunglasses, for example, provide an understated retro look. 

And let us not forget your feet. The white unisex sports shoe THE OTHER TIGER, created in cooperation with the Japanese experts at Onitsuka Tiger, makes the ideal companion this summer. 

Along with the Fresh Up Highlights, the MINI Lifestyle Collection also includes a host of other outfits and accessories. The complete collection can be found on the Internet at shop.bmwgroup.com. 

iCar Automotive News (see the link above this article) is an independent webzine for the modern car enthusiast. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Classic Cars for Sale Auto Motor Klassiek is a magazine for Classic Cars.

Motorcycle fan? Have a look at: Classic Motorcycles Oldtimer Motoren

More of these articles and much more automotive news can be found on: iCar Automotive News

Bentley Athens has moved into its new showroom in the northern suburbs of the Greek capital. So Bentley Public Relations told us last week. Marking three years of a very successful presence in Greece, Bentley Athens has moved into its impressive new home, right on the Attiki Odos, Athens’ peripheral motorway.

The new and spacious showroom, situated in the northern suburbs of Athens, the ‘natural habitat’ of the majority of its clientele, offers customers a fresh view of the entire Bentley range, including selected pre-owned models, in an environment befitting the British luxury marque.

The past years have been very profitable for Bentley Athens with 46 cars sold and an 8% market share in the local high luxury segment.

The Service of Bentley Athens, which also caters for a number of pre-2003 Rolls-Royces, has been equally successful; over 120 cars have visited its state-of-the-art workshop which remains at its present site, but is now only 15 minutes (and a few exits) away from the new showroom, on the same main thoroughfare.

“The new Bentley Athens dealership will no doubt, prove to be a stepping stone in boosting sales and reinforcing Bentley Motors’ presence in Greece”, commented Michael Mayer, Regional Director for Europe and UK of Bentley Motors.

Bentley Athens can be found from april on at 21, A. Papandreou & Eratous street in 15124 Maroussi, Athens, Greece. Bentley Athens’ webpage is at www.bentley.gr.

iCar is an independent webzine for the car enthusiast and brings a daily fresh automotive news. When your are interested in classic cars then we could recommend Auto Motor Klassiek, thousands of classic cars for sale when you click on Te Koop 1000en oldtimers Auto Motor Klassiek is the 

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Published by: iCar Automotive News

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced the name for its new model series which until now has been known as RR4. The name was announced by CEO, Tom Purves at a press conference held at the Shanghai motor show. 

The new car will be called the Rolls-Royce Ghost and production will begin at the company’s Goodwood manufacturing facility on the south coast of England later in 2009. 

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, Tom Purves, said, “We are delighted to formally announce the Rolls-Royce Ghost. It is one of the most revered names in the automotive industry, evoking technical innovation and images of adventure. The name reflects this model’s breadth of abilities. The first cars to bear the name were known not only for impressive dependability and refinement but also great flair and style. This car will be the first in a new generation to carry this evocative name and will give us two pinnacle product lines – Phantom and Ghost.  

The Rolls-Royce Ghost will be built on its own dedicated production line at Goodwood but will share paint, wood and leather workshops with the Phantom series of cars. The car manufacturer expanded all areas of its building facility over the last one and a half year to prepare for the introduction of the new model. 

The Ghost name was used by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars between 1906 and 1925 although these cars were first introduced as the 40/50hp model. A total of 7,876 of these cars were made during this period, 6173 in Derby, and 1703 in Springfield, Massachusetts. 

From quarter four 2009, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will offer five models: Ghost, Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé. The Rolls-Royce Phantom range of cars is powered by a naturally aspirated direct injection 6.75 litre V12 produces 453BHP at 5350 rpm (338KW/460PS) and 720Nm of torque at 3500rpm. 

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars retailed 1212 cars around the world in 2008, a 20 per cent increase over the previous year and marking five years of continued growth since the Phantom was first launched in 2003. 

Ghost technical specification:

No. of doors/seats: 4/5
Vehicle is long: 5399mm
Vehicle width 1948mm
Height of body: 1,550mm
Wheelbase: 3295mm
Engine: new six.6 litre turbocharged V12 

Gearbox: 8-speed ZF

Power: Upwards of 500bhp (upwards of 373kW/507PS)

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Published by: iCar Automotive News

The all-new 2010 Kia Forte Koup (known as ‘Cerato Koup’ in many markets), unveiled just last week during the 2009 New York International Auto Show, has been chosen by the editors at MSN Autos, a reputable automotive Web site in the U.S., as a ‘Best in Show’ pick.  Vehicles that made the list offered impressive style, value and overall potential to help move the automotive industry forward.  

“As the New York Auto Show offers a number of concept and production introductions, we are pleased that MSN Autos recognized Forte Koup as a ‘Best in Show’ for its bold styling and immense value,” said Michael Sprague, Vice President of Marketing at Kia Motors America.  “The all-new Forte Koup, combined with the recently launched Soul urban passenger vehicle and soon-to-be launched Forte sedan, really drives home our current strategy to create a full lineup of value-laden vehicles with a distinct and attractive Kia design.”

MSN Autos, the largest global network of online automotive sites providing consumers with comprehensive research, buying and ownership services, recognized the Forte Koup for its sleek styling and extensive offerings for a good value.The car also was noted for its competitive power and fuel efficiency.

Based on the design styling of the KOUP concept vehicle shown during last year’s show, the all-new Forte Koup’s fluid lines and balanced proportions closely mirror the powerful design cues of the concept vehicle and offer the same aggressive stance with swept-back wrap-around headlamps, aggressive air intakes and a low, sleek profile.  Available in two trim levels (EX and SX), Forte Koup offers a muscular yet sophisticated design. 

More powerful than the Honda Civic Coupe, Ford Focus Coupe or Chevrolet Cobalt Coupe, Forte Koup EX is driven by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, while the SX features an upgraded 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine delivering 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, more than the Scion tC.  Both engines deliver at least 31 miles per gallon (highway), with estimated fuel economy of 25/34 (city/highway) for the 2.0-liter when mated with either the five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic.The even more fast 2.4-liter offers an economical 22/32 mpg with the six-speed manual and 23/31 when paired with the five-speed automatic.

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