AOL Cars http://cars.aol.co.uk AOL Cars http://o.aolcdn.com/os/uk-autoblog/images/feedlogo.png AOL Cars http://cars.aol.co.uk en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Mercedes E63 AMG receives even more powerhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/19/mercedes-e63-amg-receives-even-more-power/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/19/mercedes-e63-amg-receives-even-more-power/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/19/mercedes-e63-amg-receives-even-more-power/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mercedes E63 AMG receives even more powerMercedes-Benz

If there was one thing the potent Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG was lacking, it most definitely wasn't wasn't horses under the bonnet.

Despite this, engineers at Mercedes' performance division have decided to produce an 'S' version that receives 583bhp, around 25bhp more than the standard AMG model, and an extra 80Nm of torque.
The result is a weapon that can complete the 0-62mph sprint in just 4.1 seconds and go on to hit a limited top speed of 155mph.

Performance increases may only be slight over the standard AMG version (the 0-62mph sprint is only reduced by 0.1 seconds) but the German marque has ensured passers-by know the machine means business with eye-catching exterior tweaks.

A high-gloss black front apron with silver-shadow splitter, side sill panels and rear trim strip with silver-shadow inserts, an AMG spoiler in body colour, 19 inch AMG alloy wheels painted in Titanium matt grey, red brake calipers, and 'S' labelling on the boot lid all feature.

Customers will also be treated to various bespoke interior touches that include: black nappa leather upholstery with grey contrast stitching, silver seat belts, an AMG emblem in the headrests, an electric rear roller blind for the Saloon, AMG door sills with white LED illumination, and an AMG instrument cluster with red applications and S Model badging.

The new model wades in at £83,740 for the saloon version and £85,530 for the estate - a price hike of £9,995 for both models.

Interested parties with the cash to burn will have to wait until June when the first cars go into production.

%VIRTUAL-Gallery-188233%

 

]]>e63 amgestategermanhorsepowerperformance carsaloonSpecial EditionLeon Poultney2013-05-19T05:00:00+00:00First drive: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokeehttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/18/first-drive-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/18/first-drive-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/18/first-drive-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee/#commentsFiled under: , ,

First drive: 2014 Jeep Grand CherokeeJeep

The rugged American marque has been peddling competent off-road machines since 1941 and the release of the original Grand Cherokee back in 1992 arguably saw the first proper compact SUV hit the market. Jeep big wigs like to remind folk that the Grand Cherokee remains "the most awarded SUV" in history, but the segment is currently busier than ever with the big German brands and a certain Land Rover stealing the limelight. So can the larger-than-life Jeep make an impression on UK buyers? AOL Cars popped to Sicily to find out...

What is it?

This is the new and improved five-seat 4x4 that happily juggles on and off-road duties while offering an air of luxury inside and out. A new eight-speed ZF gearbox is said to improve comfort and refinement while the interior receives a big dollop of opulence. The exterior styling has also been treated to a dash of 'European' glitz in the form of LED running lights, chrome accents and a more sculpted front grille and backside.
What's under the bonnet?

There are plenty of options here but choice will be fairly limited to fuel-price conscious UK customers. The 3.0-litre V-6 diesel will likely be the best seller but petrol fans can opt for a 3.6-litre V6, a bonkers 5.7 litre V8 or the completely lunatic-asylum-spec 6.4 litre V8 found in the ferocious SRT model. There is also an entry-level, 188bhp V6 diesel that will only be available in basic Laredo trim. Jeep believes this engine will make up under 5% of UK sales. The beefier petrol options will be popular in the USA where motorists don't have to take out a small loan every time they fill up but here, the 248bhp V6 diesel offers up the best balance of torque-y performance and fuel economy. It's a powerful lump that offers enough pull to ensure overtaking is relatively effortless but it can feel slightly muddled now it's mated to that new eight-speed auto gearbox. Exit a corner too slow (which is often, thanks to its two-tonne mass), nail the throttle and the gearbox takes a while to make up its mind and then, bang! All that torque is delivered in one big wallop. Switching to manual mode and shifting with the steering wheel-mounted paddles helps but sometimes it's more sensible to simply take it easy when the road gets twisty.

What's the spec like?

Americans like choice and the Jeep is offered with plenty of it. Four trim levels are up for grabs and they include: Laredo, Limited, Overland and SRT. Laredo is aimed at the more frequent off-roader (or penny-pincher) so does away with some of the more showy interior and exterior bits of trim. It also doesn't come with a sat-nav as standard and lacks the more competent air suspension of the pricier models. Part with slightly more and opt for Limited and you'll be treated to a leather interior, more chrome and a power-assisted boot. Limited Plus will be offered to UK customers and this will feature the brilliant sat-nav system developed by Harman & Kardon and for that reason, it's touted to be the most biggest seller on these shores. Opt for the Overland and Summit models and you'll get the aforementioned air suspension - which is slightly more compliant on smooth roads and more comfortable off - and a whole dollop of extra glitz and glamour that some will love but others may loathe.

Any rivals?

If you're in the market for a blingy SUV that goes like stink on a motorway yet can happily tackle the odd mountain, you're in luck. The Porsche Cayenne diesel should be the first stop for anyone wanting premium quality in a machine that can tame a road like a car half its size. Then there's the VW Touareg that may not be quite as in-your-face but offers the practicality, reliability and sensible design the German marque is so famed for. Those wanting even more razzle dazzle could look towards the Audi Q7 and BMW X6 but the Range Rover Sport is due out soon and that will step into the ring at just a few grand more expensive than a top spec Grand Cherokee Summit (estimated to be just shy of £50,000). It's certainly worth holding out for.

First drive: 2014 Jeep Grand CherokeeJeep

What's it like to drive?

It's exactly as you would expect an enormous V6 diesel that weighs nearly two tonnes to drive - rolling a fair bit around corners, lurching forwards under heavy braking and generally not doing a great job of disguising its mass. But it's very comfortable at cruising speeds - apart from some wind noise emanating from the enormous wing mirrors - and extremely capable off-road. Most customers won't even tackle a muddy field, let alone a rocky descent, but the Jeep remains true to its roots and offers a drive-select system that handles almost all terrain. Snow, sand, rock and mud are all covered thanks to its clever on-board computer, while adjustable suspension ensures the vehicle's undercarriage remains intact.

The AOL Cars verdict

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is something different and its very difficult not to like it for that reason alone. Yes, in Summit spec with an Ice White paint job, chrome-plated 20-inch rims and the LED running lights beaming away it can look a little, er, Essex, but some will love the show-business of it all. Personally, basic Laredo or Limited trim will suffice and the amount of equipment available as standard is impressive. Above all else, there's something to be said of a vehicle that offers this level of interior luxury yet can happily take on a 30ft cliff face that's covered in snow. Just watch out for boulders, you wouldn't want to scratch the chrome alloys.

The knowledge

Model: Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit
Price: £48,000 (estimated)
Engine: 3-litre V6 diesel
Power: 248bhp, 570Nm
Max speed: 125mph
0-62mph: 8.2 seconds
MPG: 38mpg (combined)
Emissions: 198g/Km CO2

%VIRTUAL-Gallery-188688%

 

]]>4x4audi q7Jeep Grand CherokeeLand Roveroff-roadsuvVolkswagen TouaregLeon Poultney2013-05-18T05:30:00+00:00Exclusive: Inside Maranellohttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/18/exclusive-inside-maranello/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/18/exclusive-inside-maranello/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/18/exclusive-inside-maranello/#commentsFiled under: ,

Exclusive: Inside MaranelloSWNS

Reporter Adrian Hearn was lucky enough to receive an invite to go behind the scenes at one of the world's most famous sports car manufacturers.

Sixty-six years after the 125S made its debut, Ferrari continues to build the most desirable sports cars and boasts an annual turnover in excess of €2 billion.
And the firm's headquarters, in Maranello, northern Italy, is central to the phenomenal success which has seen profits and sales go through the roof in recent years.

Spread over 551,000 sq/m and dominating the small town of Maranello, the factory builds and restores some of the finest vehicles available.

Peruse the gallery below and take a tour around the famous production plant...

%VIRTUAL-Gallery-188274%

 

]]>behind the scenesenzofactoryFerrarigallerymaranellotourLeon Poultney2013-05-18T05:00:00+00:00Motorist fined £30 after pulling in to bus lane to let fire engines passhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/motorist-fined-30-after-pulling-in-to-bus-lane-to-let-fire-engi/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/motorist-fined-30-after-pulling-in-to-bus-lane-to-let-fire-engi/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/motorist-fined-30-after-pulling-in-to-bus-lane-to-let-fire-engi/#commentsFiled under:

Motorist fined £30 after pulling in to bus lane to let fire engines passPA

A 67-year-old music journalist duly paid a £30 fine after being sent evidence that he was driving in a bus lane.

However, Ian Pemble was so annoyed by what he considered the opportunist placement of the cameras that he asked for extra evidence from Bristol City Council - so they sent him a video of the incident.
"I nearly fell off my chair when I saw the video for the first time," said Mr Pemble.

The video shows that just seconds after the silver Ford Focus he was driving had moved across into the empty bus lane, he was joined by a stream of traffic, all making space for two fire engines on an emergency call out.

"I was absolutely delighted to find I was squeaky clean and a good boy. You can't have a better excuse than that," said Mr Pemble.

When the mistake was pointed out, Bristol City Council quickly refunded the fine and issued an apology.

A spokeswoman from the council admitted officers issued the penalty for the incident on the A4 in Bristol city centre without fully considering the circumstances.

The spokeswoman said the footage had been reviewed and it was clear that he had moved aside for a fire engine.

"Actions by motorists to allow access for emergency services occur regularly and they are normally picked up when the footage is examined prior to a Penalty Charge Notice being issued.

"However, it was missed in this instance in error. We will write to Mr Pemble to apologise."

Mr Pemble stated: "'I knew I was in the area but I wasn't sure whether I had just nipped into the lane at the last moment."

The council's spokeswoman concluded, "Motorists who believe they have received a penalty in error should always appeal. The council is happy to review any case and cancel the charge where appropriate."

 

]]>Bristolbus lanecameracounty councilfinefixed penalty fineNicholas Prangnell2013-05-17T09:37:00+00:00Porsche 918 Spyder: The full detailshttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/porsche-918-spyder-the-full-details/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/porsche-918-spyder-the-full-details/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/porsche-918-spyder-the-full-details/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Porsche 918 Spyder: The full detailsPorsche

Porsche plans to usher in a new era of supercar with their latest plug-in hybrid and until now, details have been scarce.

But we can reveal that the 887bhp monster will use a mid-mounted 4.6-litre V8 as well as two lithium-ion powered electric motors to deliver a 0-62mph sprint time of just 2.8 seconds.
That's up there in Formula 1 car territory.

All that power doesn't come cheap as the 918 Spyder will set customers back a whopping £659,879 for the most 'basic' model and £720,701 for a 'Weissach' package that sees extra weight saving methods employed, Alcantara trim added and sound-proofing removed for a full-fat supercar experience.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is as close to a race car-for-the-road as one can get thanks to the liberal use of motorsport technology. The carbon monocoque, for example, has been inspired by motorsport design while the drivetrain components, and all components weighing over 50 kg, are located as low and as centrally as possible within the vehicle to ensure optimal handling.

But don't think that because the 918 uses battery power it won't deliver the goods aurally. So-called 'top pipes' see the exhausts exit at the upper part of the rear of the car for improved heat removal... they also pump the glorious soundtrack out behind the driver's head.

Perhaps the most impressive statistic is, despite the monstrous amount of power on offer, the 918 emits just 79g/km of CO2.

That means it is exempt from road tax but just misses out on free travel through Central London under the new rules due to be implemented.

The car is still undergoing final tests and there is no word on a release date as yet, so for now, the gallery below will have to suffice.

%VIRTUAL-Gallery-188674%

 

]]>918 spyderdetailselectric motorelectric vehiclegreenLithium IonsupercarLeon Poultney2013-05-17T09:00:00+00:00Truck driver survives 20m fall from Melbourne bridgehttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/truck-driver-survives-20m-fall-from-melbourne-bridge/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/truck-driver-survives-20m-fall-from-melbourne-bridge/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/truck-driver-survives-20m-fall-from-melbourne-bridge/#commentsFiled under:

Truck driver survives 20m fall from Melbourne bridgeMetro

An Australian truck driver suffered serious injuries when he was thrown off a bridge after a traffic accident in Melbourne on Friday morning.

The man was flung out of the cab onto a road 20 metres below, while his vehicle dangled precariously over the edge.
A factory worker who immediately ran to the driver's aid after the crash, told reporters "He kept saying he was going to die".

Police in Melbourne believe the trucker may have swerved to avoid a car that had veered in front of him.

The truck then struck the concrete barriers lining the bridge, ejecting the driver from his seat onto the road below.

A spokesman for Melbourne Fire Brigade said: "It's a pretty intense, horrific sort of incident."

A witness told the Australian news programme Channel Nine TV: "There were no signs of obvious trauma. No blood or anything like that. No bones protruding.

"I saw the truck as well, hanging upside down, and couldn't believe he was still conscious."

An Ambulance Victoria spokeswoman said the driver remained in a critical condition, with serious head and pelvic injuries.

Images that surfaced just after the incident show the twisted wreckage of the heavy goods vehicle wrapped around the concrete barriers. The truck appears to have been flipped upside-down while the cargo dangles over the edge of the bridge.

Debris from the crash also hit a building below, cracking one of the brick walls. Subsequently, fire crews were called in to inspect the damage.

The other driver involved suffered minor injuries.

All inbound traffic on the busy Melbourne motorway was suspended as several cranes were brought in to secure the truck.

A remote-controlled drone was used to send live images back to the crane operator as the truck was pulled back from the brink.

The delicate operation took several hours to complete and train services, which run directly under the crash site, were also suspended.

Watch the video below from Metro.co.uk

 

]]>accidentbridgefire brigadelorrymelbournepolicevideoNicholas Prangnell2013-05-17T08:46:00+00:00Special traffic courts to deal with motoring offenceshttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/special-traffic-courts-to-deal-with-motoring-offences/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/special-traffic-courts-to-deal-with-motoring-offences/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/special-traffic-courts-to-deal-with-motoring-offences/#commentsFiled under:

Special traffic courts to deal with motoring offencesPA

A new proposal by the Ministry of Justice could see driving offences heard in special traffic courts to free up time for more serious cases.

Magistrates courts hear around half a million motoring cases every year, with some taking over six months from offence to completion.
In the eyes of justice ministers, this time could be better spent dealing with more serious crimes.

The justice minister Damian Green told The Guardian: "The justice system must respond more quickly and effectively to the needs of victims, witnesses and local communities, and these dedicated courts will enable magistrates to better organise their work and drive greater efficiency."

The government is currently discussing with the judiciary, who are responsible for managing cases in the courts, how the traffic courts can be delivered across the country.

So far, nine areas have trialled the new traffic courts, including: Essex, Hampshire, Kent, Lincolnshire, Metropolitan police, Nottinghamshire, Norfolk, Suffolk and West Yorkshire.

Chief Constable Chris Eyre, the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) lead on criminal justice, said: "We have implemented this new procedure to traffic cases with great success in nine police forces - radically simplifying and speeding up the process.

"This is only implemented when there is a guilty plea or where the case against a defendant is not contested. "Effective first hearings have significantly reduced the amount of adjournments and a single court can deal with up to 160 cases a day."

 

]]>association of chief police officerslawmagistrates courtMinistry of Justicepolicetraffic courtstraffic offencesLeon Poultney2013-05-17T08:12:00+00:00Top tips for new car buyershttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/top-tips-for-new-car-buyers/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/top-tips-for-new-car-buyers/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/top-tips-for-new-car-buyers/#commentsFiled under:

Top tips for new car buyersNewspress

According to the Sainsbury's Bank car buying index, 6.6 million people plan to buy a car in the next six months.

That figure means that 14% of adults in Britain intend to buy a car between March and August 2013.
Of these individuals, nearly 3.2 million plan to purchase a brand new car.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has forecast a slight growth in registrations in 2013 and said that it will continue to be a tough market but the Sainsbury's Bank car buying index figures suggest that although consumers' intention to buy a car appears to be lower than six months ago, those who are thinking about purchasing a vehicle are looking to spend more money on average.

So if you are looking to trade in the old wheels for a brand new motor or just need a reasonable second-hand runaround for the summer, take a look at the infographic below for some handy tips on haggling the best deal...

Car Haggling Tips
Car Haggling Tips infographic by Sainsbury's Bank

 

]]>car buyingdatafiguresnew carsainsburystipsLeon Poultney2013-05-17T06:27:00+00:00Waterfall road signs employed in Australiahttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/waterfall-road-signs-employed-in-australia/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/waterfall-road-signs-employed-in-australia/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/17/waterfall-road-signs-employed-in-australia/#commentsFiled under:

Waterfall road signs employed in AustraliaYouTube

Australian authorities have grown so tired of over-sized trucks squeezing through low tunnels that they have employed some drastic measures.

A new, futuristic form of signage has been adopted, which produces a curtain of water that enables a large 'Stop' sign to be projected onto it.
The thinking behind the innovative technology is that truck drivers ignoring conventional signage won't fail to miss the Softstop virtual barriers and, even if they do or notice too late, no damage will be done to either the truck or the low bridge.

Laservision, the technology company behind the revolutionary signs has said that Sydney Harbour Tunnel has experienced more than 10,000 incidents of vehicles hitting the structure since it opened.

The damage caused by oversized vehicles crashing into the overhead of the tunnel affected up to 12,000 motorists at peak times, the company said.

The video below shows the space-age tech in action and it is clear to see that a truck driver has ignored all of the traditional signage, including flashing dot matrix boards, and continues to plough ahead.

Sensors quickly realise the truck it too tall so deploys the curtain of water and the enormous 'Stop' sign, resulting in the truck braking hard and coming to a controlled halt.

Take a look at the innovation in action below

 

]]>accidentaustralialaserslorriesRoad signssydneytechnologytruckwaterLeon Poultney2013-05-17T05:57:00+00:00Video: Gran Turismo 6 trailer releasedhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/video-gran-turismo-6-trailer-released/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/video-gran-turismo-6-trailer-released/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/video-gran-turismo-6-trailer-released/#commentsFiled under:

Video: Gran Turismo 6 trailer releasedYouTube

There are racing games and then there is Gran Turismo. Ever since the first installment rocked the world of video gaming back when the original PlayStation was in Vogue, the 'real driving simulator' has won a legion of fans and has gone on to become one of the most successful games ever, selling over 70 million units over different platforms.

Now Polyphony Digital are teasing the sixth installment in the franchise with a new trailer. It's as you'd expect: lots of car porn in the form of sweeping close ups and lots of high-end cars being drifted around perfectly rendered racetracks.
The creators are promising over 1,200 driveable cars, as well as seven new circuits, taking the total to 33.

So, if you'd like a sneak preview of the game that's going to destroy your social life over the coming months, continue watching below.

 

]]>gran turismo 6high definitionPlayStationpolyphony-digitaltrailerDaljinder Nagra2013-05-16T10:34:00+00:00Video: New Mercedes S-Class revealedhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/video-new-mercedes-s-class-revealed/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/video-new-mercedes-s-class-revealed/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/video-new-mercedes-s-class-revealed/#commentsFiled under:

Video: New Mercedes S-Class revealedMercedes-Benz

The new Mercedes S-Class was unveiled last night at a star-studded event in Germany, with everyone from the Hamburg symphony orchestra to Nikki Lauda and Franz Beckenbauer in attendance. Mercedes even hired warbling songstress Alicia Keys to serenade the assembled guests.

Overkill? Maybe, but in the world of motoring few car launches are important as that of a new Mercedes S-Class. Regarded by many to be 'the best car in the world', each successive generation changes our perceptions of what a car should be capable of.
It is also a showcase of the technology that will filter down to every other car in coming decades. Previous S-Class models ushered in such technology as ABS, inertia reel seatbelts and satellite navigation - items motorists take for granted on a budget hatchback these days.

The new generation certainly doesn't disappoint. Technical highlights include airbags built into the seatbelts and a camera that analyses the road ahead and proactively prepares the air suspension system so nothing disrupts the car's magic-carpet ride quality.

The car's interior is now notably larger and plusher than the outgoing model, with the S-Class now filling the void left by the Maybach limousine, which was the traditional rival to rarefied luxury limousines such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

As such, it will eventually be offered in five different body styles: Long and short wheelbase saloons, an extra-long saloon, as well as coupe and cabriolet versions.

The exterior styling shows a clear relationship with previous models, but the understated styling for which the model has become known has been given a contemporary twist with some detailed surface styling on a number of body panels.

The S-Class will be offered with petrol, diesel and hybrid drivetrains, with the cleanest version expected to duck under the new 75g/km CO2 emission limit for London congestion charge exemption - a deeply impressive feat for such a large luxury car.

The new Mercedes S-Class is expected to reach UK showrooms this September. Continue below to see a video showcasing the car's comfort and technological highlights.

%VIRTUAL-Gallery-188550%


 

]]>alicia keyshi techlimousinemercedes s classRolls-Royce PhantomDaljinder Nagra2013-05-16T08:44:00+00:00Mechanic has recently completed restoration project stolenhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/mechanic-has-recently-completed-restoration-project-stolen/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/mechanic-has-recently-completed-restoration-project-stolen/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/mechanic-has-recently-completed-restoration-project-stolen/#commentsFiled under:

Mechanic has recently completed restoration project stolenCavendish Press

A mechanic who spent nine years restoring a classic car had his pride and joy stolen just days after he had finished working on it.

Jason Brierley, of Oldham, Greater Manchester, had spent over £10,000 and nearly a decade bringing a 1970s Mk1 Ford Escort back to pristine condition, but woke up one morning to find it gone from his driveway.
To add insult to injury, thieves also broke into his girlfriend's Fiat Cinquecento just to roll it out of the Escort's way, before barricading the couple's front door to prevent them coming out to stop the theft.

The rare left-hand-drive car was hurried away on a low-loader lorry and Police fear it may now be broken down for parts.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Mr Brierley said: "I'm so devastated by this theft, it feels like I have lost a child.

"I've spent virtually every waking hour for the last five years renovating the car so I could get the perfect motor and had just completed the project. To lose it like this is a massive kick in the teeth.

"I spent hours absolutely hours on the car - I was always tinkering with it. I don't have any children so in effect it was my baby."

Brierley also disclosed that he previously had another Mk1 Escort, which was also stolen shortly after he got the keys.

He revealed to the newspaper that the car was something of an obsession. Having driven around the country just to secure a suitable example, Brierley lavished time and effort on the Escort - boring out the engine, updating the gearbox to a five-speed unit, and changing the brakes and suspension.

Greater Manchester Police have said that the car has yet to be recovered - something which is likely to end this mechanic's love affair with Ford Escorts.

"If I don't get it back I don't think I will ever have another," Brierley said. "It has put me off because it doesn't warrant all the stress and waking up in the night worrying if it is still there. That is no way to live."

 

]]>ford escortmanchesterrestorationvehicle theftDaljinder Nagra2013-05-16T07:44:00+00:00McLaren points towards P1 successorhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/mclaren-points-towards-p1-successor/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/mclaren-points-towards-p1-successor/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/mclaren-points-towards-p1-successor/#commentsFiled under:

McLaren points towards P1 successorMcLaren Automotive

British supercar manufacturer McLaren has confirmed that there will be a successor to its forthcoming P1 hypercar.

Speaking to Autocar Magazine, McLaren head of sales and marketing Greg Levine stated that it would be at least ten years before a replacement would be seen.
"The only way a car like the P1 works is by being exclusive and having a short product cycle. After that, you have to step back from the market for a few years. These sort of launches can only happen every ten years or so," he said.

The news comes before the P1 has even been officially launched in production specification, let alone turned a wheel in anger. Despite this, McLaren have already found 250 buyers for the car, of which production will be limited to 375 units.

Of those that have already been fully specified, three quarters of customers have opted for bespoke modifications through McLaren's exclusive Special Operations division.

The alterations can range from bespoke paint finishes and interior trim, to the deletion of the air conditioning system to save weight

Levine also revealed that several customers have put their names down for two cars.

McLaren Special Operations has also been busy with the company's 'entry-level' supercar, the 12C, of which around twenty per cent of orders specify individual customisation.

 

]]>autocarMcLaren MP4-12Cmclaren p1Daljinder Nagra2013-05-16T06:49:00+00:00Teenage crash victim didn't have a driving licencehttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/teenage-crash-victim-didn-t-have-a-driving-licence/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/teenage-crash-victim-didn-t-have-a-driving-licence/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/teenage-crash-victim-didn-t-have-a-driving-licence/#commentsFiled under:

Teenage crash victim didn't have a driving licenceFacebook

A teenager who died in a car crash after borrowing a friend's car was not qualified to drive, an inquest has heard.

19-year-old Richard Crookes was killed after the Renault Clio he was driving left the road and rolled onto its roof on the A161 near Crowle, on September 16 last year.
He was found to be twice over the legal drink-drive limit and also wasn't wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

Crookes, and passenger Craig Butt had borrowed the car to collect friends from a party, which they were making their way to.

Butt, who sustained minor injuries in the accident, admitted to the inquiry that he and Crookes had been drinking in the hours leading up to the crash.

Describing the incident to the inquiry, he said: "It was a terrifying journey and I asked him to stop and slow down.

"We went round the first corner and I could see what was going to happen.

"He was driving at a fast pace over the limit, I was screaming at him to brake and slow down.

"On the second corner, I felt a judder and then the car started to swerve. I remember a noise and then being upside down."

Post mortem results indicated that Crookes wasn't wearing a seatbelt due to the lack of abrasive injuries that would be normal in such a crash.

The inquest also heard how Crookes was only a light drinker, who became inebriated after consuming only small amounts of alcohol.

Coroner Paul Kelly recorded a verdict of accidental death and stated: "The journey was uninsured and Richard Crookes was unfit to drive due to the alcohol consumed.

"[He] was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained injuries not sustainable with life.

"It is a very sad and tragic waste of a young life."

 

]]>drink drivingroad deathteenageruninsured driverDaljinder Nagra2013-05-16T06:21:00+00:00Alfa Romeo launches Fast & Furious Giuliettahttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/alfa-romeo-launches-fast-and-furious-giulietta/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/alfa-romeo-launches-fast-and-furious-giulietta/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/16/alfa-romeo-launches-fast-and-furious-giulietta/#commentsFiled under:

Alfa Romeo launches Fast & Furious GiuliettaAlfa Romeo

Have you been considering an Alfa Romeo Giulietta recently, but been put-off by the total lack of Vin Diesel's signature on the dashboard? Well Alfa Romeo has moved to fill this vital niche with the release of a Fast & Furious 6 themed limited edition.

The Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB FF6 Limited Edition, released to coincide with the launch of the latest in the Fast & Furious blockbuster franchise, does indeed feature the squiggles from the film's stars on a special numbered plaque, mounted on the dashboard.
But disappointment may be in store for the huge legion of Fast & Furious fans looking to get a slice of the action, as Alfa Romeo has confirmed only six of these special models will be made. Each numbered plaque therefore corresponds to a film in the franchise.

Buyers of the £25,675 special edition will also have the opportunity to attend a once in a lifetime stunt day with a stunt coordinator from the movie industry. Stunts have always featured heavily throughout the Fast & Furious films, and the latest installment certainly doesn't disappoint, introducing the crazy 'flip' car.

However, any buyer hoping to re-enact the breakneck speeds stunt drivers must achieve may be held back by the lack of performance enhancing mods to the FF6 Limited Edition; the car runs the same 170bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir engine available in other Giuliettas.

Damien Dally, head of brand at Alfa Romeo UK said: "This is a very exclusive model taken directly from a blockbuster movie of global appeal. The Alfa Giulietta Fast & Furious 6 limited edition is a hugely exciting addition to our range, one we feel sure will appeal not just to fans of the films, but all those with a discerning eye for beautiful automotive styling."

The Alfa Giulietta 1.4 TB FF6 Limited Edition is to be sold exclusively through the Motor Village Marylebone Alfa Romeo dealership in London.

 

]]>alfa romeo giuliettafast and furious 6limited editionstuntsVin DieselNicholas Prangnell2013-05-16T05:54:00+00:00"Have I killed someone?" asks blackout fatal crash driverhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/have-i-killed-someone-asks-blackout-fatal-crash-driver/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/have-i-killed-someone-asks-blackout-fatal-crash-driver/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/have-i-killed-someone-asks-blackout-fatal-crash-driver/#commentsFiled under:

'Have I killed someone?' asks blackout fatal crash driverFlickr/rovingl

A blackout sufferer who caused a fatal collision knew it was unsafe for her to be driving despite being granted a driving licence, a court has heard.

In October 2010 47-year-old Mary McLaughlin suffered a blackout behind the wheel of her Vauxhall Zafira. She ploughed into the back of a Ford Focus after failing to stop at a roundabout on the M5, killing 26-year-old student Rebecca McManus.
McLaughlin told police she had been in the outside lane of the motorway, doing around 60-65mph, when she felt the start of the blackout and tried to get to the hard shoulder.

Witnesses told the court they saw her slumped in her seat, with her head down and eyes closed, just before the crash. Prosecutors claimed a panicked McLaughlin asked witnesses at the scene "have I killed someone?"

The driver and other passengers of the Ford Focus hit in the crash suffered serious injuries, with McManus pronounced dead at the scene.

The trial heard how McLaughlin, of Newtownabbey, medically retired from her role as a finance officer in a hospital after suffering from around 50 blackouts. Colleagues stated "she could black out with no warning at all."

Ms McLaughlin denies one count of causing death by dangerous driving and four further charges of causing grievous bodily injury by dangerous driving.

The court has heard she was issued a licence by the DVLNI just five months before the crash, despite disclosing that she suffered from sudden bouts of fainting, giddiness or blackouts.

Her GP stated she had been "honest and candid" when filling in forms, but the court also heard that McLaughlin herself had chosen not to drive for around two years between 2003 and 2005.

The trial at Belfast's Laganside Crown Court continues.

 

]]>Belfastblackoutsdangerous drivingRTANicholas Prangnell2013-05-15T07:54:00+00:00Porsche driver crashes into Aldi storehttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/porsche-driver-crashes-into-aldi-store/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/porsche-driver-crashes-into-aldi-store/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/porsche-driver-crashes-into-aldi-store/#commentsFiled under:

Porsche driver crashes into Aldi storeTwitter/@SarahGPuetz

A Porsche Boxster driver has caused an embarrassing and costly accident, by crashing into an Aldi store in Wales.

The crash occurred in Cardigan after the owner of the sports car muddled up their gears. Thinking it was in reverse, they instead drove forward out of a parking bay and into a fire escape door.
Thankfully no one was injured, but speaking to Carmarthen Journal, store manager Tom Jones said the owner did look somewhat crestfallen after the incident:

"The chap who had the crash had just bought the car.

"He thought it was in reverse and accelerated straight into the fire exit in his brand new Porsche.

"Thankfully no-one was injured. The car had a few scratches.

"The door was damaged, but I don't think it was too serious."

The incident was captured by a passer by who later posted the image of the stricken Boxster on her Twitter account. @SarahGPuetz, commented: "One question for the driver if youve got a porche [sic] why are you shopping in aldi?!"

Mid and West Wales Fire Service confirmed they had attended the scene, but only as a precautionary measure.

The last couple of months have seen a spate of motorists crashing into buildings. We recently brought you the video of a drink driver that took police on a high-speed pursuit around Bristol before spectacularly binning the car into a homeware shop, and also the Audi TT driver who managed to get their car off the road completely, embedding it into the ground floor window of a house in Lowestoft.

 

]]>Aldicar crashwalesDaljinder Nagra2013-05-15T07:26:00+00:00Project Peugeot: The bare naked truthhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/project-peugeot-the-bare-naked-truth/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/project-peugeot-the-bare-naked-truth/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/project-peugeot-the-bare-naked-truth/#commentsFiled under: ,

Project Peugeot: The bare naked truthJames Baggott

It was quite a shock walking into the Fix Auto Petersfield workshop to be greeted by our Peugeot, looking resplendent in its birthday suit.

After 20 hours of bodywork attacking by the restoration team - led by project manager James Poste - they had stripped back nearly all of our Peugeot 205 GTi 1.9's old paint to the bare metal.
Using healthy supplies of stripper the many coats of old black paint had bubbled and blistered off the surface to reveal our car's blemishes in all their gory detail.

James had highlighted a number of problems prior to the stripping - he'd covered the car in pink pen marking where all the imperfections were.

Now, with the paint on the floor rather than the panels, these were clear to see. Worst of all was the key mark, which had gorged a deep cut all the way into the metal from the rear driver's side panel across to the front door.

Even with the paint removed you could still clearly see the scratch in the metal.

James pointed out the dents and filler that scarred the body and talked me through the repair process he had lined up. J39 JMR will be in Fix Auto Petersfield's hands for at least a further three weeks where more stripping back will be completed and repairs tackled, before the first coat of primer can be applied.

The respray costs look to be escalating slightly. James now thinks the whole job could reach the £3,500 mark including parts and labour- a figure that would put many hot hatch enthusiasts off tackling the project in the first place.

However, it's certainly going to be worth it when we've finished.



During my latest visit, James presented me with a list of parts he'd like to replace to bring the little French hot hatch back up to concourse standards.

It's not the shortest of Christmas lists, that's for sure. New headlamps, indicators and fog-lamps are on there, as well as various pieces of trim, badges, door rubbers and clips.

It even needs a new windscreen as the last one cracked as they prised it out of its 20-year-old mold.

Some parts will be available over the counter at the local Peugeot dealer, but a few, I've already been warned, won't be. That should make for an interesting hunt ahead.

I've already got in touch with Peugeot UK to see if they can help point me in the right direction and hopefully by the time I go to see J39 JMR again, I'll know which bits I can and can't get.

James is confident we can fix up some of the badges to look like new if we have to, so there are back-up plans in place. For some bits...

"Now it's stripped back it's no worse or better than I first feared," James explained.

"It's a big job and I always knew it would be. I know it's scary seeing it like this, but it's the worst it's going to look. From here it'll just keep on looking better."

James and his team have even managed to tackle the rusty window edge. While I was visiting they cut out the bad patch and had already fashioned a new plate to weld into place. The repair was incredible.

Project Peugeot: The bare naked truthFix Auto



"For a car of this age it's got surprisingly little rust," added James.

"Looks like on that front you got yourself a good one!"

I'll be back at Fix Auto Petersfield in a week or so to see the first coat of paint applied and then the team plan on getting me to help repair the alloy wheels. Sounds a lot like hard work to me...

Project Peugeot Costs so far

Car: £1,200
MOT: £46
Tax: £225

Read Project Peugeot part one HERE

Read Project Peugeot part two HERE

Read Project Peugeot part three HERE

%VIRTUAL-Gallery-188291%

 

]]>classic carshot hatchpeugeot 205 gtiprojectproject peugeotrestorationJames Baggott2013-05-15T07:00:00+00:00BMW road-rage driver kills twohttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/bmw-road-rage-driver-kills-two/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/bmw-road-rage-driver-kills-two/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/bmw-road-rage-driver-kills-two/#commentsFiled under:

BMW road-rage driver kills twoPA

A rage-fuelled BMW driver is accused of causing the deaths of two other road users by swerving across the road at the car they were travelling in, a court was told.

Adam Trueman, 20, and Hayley Walton, 22, were killed in the incident when their Ford Fiesta fishtailed off the road and collided with a tree.
Witnesses to the crash in Coventry saw Trueman and the second driver, Anthony Wells, 52, arguing at a pedestrian crossing during December 2011. Moments later Wells accelerated past Mr Trueman and applied the brakes, the trial heard.

Witnesses told the court this act of road rage may have caused Mr Trueman to lose control of his vehicle, striking the tree side on. The crash was so severe Police say the two ends of the Fiesta were almost touching.

Shortly after the crash, Coventry police appealed for the driver of a white BMW to come forward. Wells was subsequently charged with causing death by dangerous driving, which he denies.

Speaking to the court, Prosecutor James Dunstan admitted that there was room for criticism of the way Mr Trueman was driving, but that "the reality of this case is it's more about road rage rather than two drivers trying to drive faster than one another."

One witness saw the two cars so close to each other shortly before the crash, they were almost touching. Another driver told the court he saw the defendant drive down a nearby cul-de-sac before leaving a short moment later.

"This was a rage-fuelled incident between two cars," Mr Dunstan said. "The BMW was next seen at about 2am the next morning at an address in Tile Hill. It was registered to Mr Wells' wife.

"Four days after the incident police went to the address to make enquiries about the car. Mr Wells came to the door and told police he had been on London Road at the time."

The trial, at Leamington Crown Court, continues.

 

]]>bmw driverspoliceroad rageRTANicholas Prangnell2013-05-15T06:45:00+00:00Video: Russian dash-cam captures high-speed lorry crashhttp://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/video-russian-dash-cam-captures-high-speed-lorry-crash/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/video-russian-dash-cam-captures-high-speed-lorry-crash/http://cars.aol.co.uk/2013/05/15/video-russian-dash-cam-captures-high-speed-lorry-crash/#commentsFiled under:

Video: Russian dash-cam captures high-speed lorry crashYouTube

It would appear that driving standards in the former Soviet Union are particularly alarming, given the almost daily updates of fresh footage showing the most calamitous of road traffic accidents.

The latest video to emerge is particularly shocking. Captured by a motorist driving down a seemingly deserted road, they are suddenly confronted by a high-speed lorry, which proceeds to overturn and smash into a tree in front of them, very nearly flattening them and another car.
It's a sobering near miss, which must have shaken the driver up considerably. Well that's what we hope is the reason for them simply driving around wreckage and not stopping to offer assistance.

Watch the video below (via Carthrottle.com)

 

]]>collisionlorry crashrussian dash camDaljinder Nagra2013-05-15T06:14:00+00:00