Formula One world champion Jenson Button will start next season with a more aggressively designed McLaren than the one Lewis Hamilton struggled with for much of this year.

“It’s still too early to be able to say with any confidence how competitive we’ll be,” engineering director Paddy Lowe said in a Q&A provided by the Mercedes-powered team on Monday.

“All we can say with any certainty is that we’ve approached this (20010) car more aggressively than we perhaps have in the past.”

Mercedes have taken over Brawn GP, who won both titles this year. Button has since moved from Brawn to McLaren, where he will partner 2008 world champion Hamilton.

“We’ve used the knowledge we gained from heavily developing (the) MP4-24 (car during the 2009 season) to stand us in good stead with the 25,” Lowe added.

“We feel we’re making very good progress, but, equally, we know there are some very capable teams out there too. I’d be surprised if Red Bull Racing and Ferrari don’t come out with very strong packages and I think Mercedes GP will produce another extremely quick car.”

McLaren managing director Jonathan Neale said the team were looking forward to the new pairing.

“We know that Jenson is fully capable of learning very quickly, taking things onboard and absorbing information fast,” he said.

“In fact, we are looking forward to that hunger – it will be about how we prioritise his arrival in January to take best advantage of that desire to learn and improve.”

Team principal Martin Whitmarsh said McLaren, who have not won a constructors’ title since 1998 and finished third overall this year, were well-equipped to manage the pair.

“We feel confident that, as an organisation, we’ll be able to manage the demands and expectations of our drivers,” he said.

“Lewis and Jenson are both world champions, they know what it takes to win, and I’m sure they’ll both be very motivated to push each other to deliver even greater results.

“It’s my job to positively harness that competitiveness for the greater benefit of the team.”

Check out all latest sports information on Onlinesports blog!

The Manor GP Formula One team has been entered for the 2010 season as Virgin Racing, the sport’s governing body said on Monday.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) published the official entry list with 12 confirmed teams and lingering uncertainty over the entry previously held by Toyota.

“Toyota Motorsport GmbH remains formally bound by the Concorde Agreement to put forward a team for participation, though it has indicated that it will not be in a position to do so,” the FIA said in a footnote.

“An announcement will be made regarding this entry in due course.”

The former BMW-Sauber team, now handed back to founder Peter Sauber following the departure of BMW at the end of the 2009 season, are likely to take Toyota’s place having been assured already that they are the official reserves.

“Regarding the slot on the grid I am very confident that we will be given a final confirmation very shortly,” Sauber, whose team plan to use Ferrari engines, told the official formula1.com website.

“Our 2010 car is perfectly on schedule. The development and fabrication have been unaffected by the situation,” he added.

“Having been able to proceed with uninterrupted development was also possible thanks to excellent cooperation with Ferrari, who submitted all the relevant data very early. Regarding the performance of the C29 we are all very confident.”

Richard Branson’s Virgin Group sponsored championship-winning Brawn GP, who have since been taken over by Mercedes, this season.

Virgin have yet to formally confirm their involvement with British-based Manor, one of four new teams due to make their debuts on the starting grid. Manor have signed German driver Timo Glock. The other newcomers are US F1, Campos Meta 1 and Malaysian-backed Lotus F1 Racing.

Red Bull, championship runners-up this year, confirmed they will continue with Renault engines after considering other options.

Britain’s world champion Jenson Button will have the number one on his car at McLaren with new team mate, compatriot and 2008 champion Lewis Hamilton competing as number two. Button won the title with Brawn.

Check out all latest sports information on Onlinesports blog!

This morning, Danica Patrick announced her new three-year contract with Michael Andretti’s Indy Racing League team.

But does this kill the Danica/NASCAR rumors that have been swirling for months? Probably not. Consider this placeholder image that popped up this morning on Danica’s Flash-heavy website (and which has since been replaced by an IRL-appropriate image with a Honda logo):

Hmm … I suspect another announcement is forthcoming.

I had a cheap score on ebay for this Nissan Skyline Bayside Blue Z Tune model. Very nice model for the money!

A New Frontier of FMX Opens January 2, 2010 for 15-City Tour

Vienna, VA, – November 24, 2009 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Feld Motor Sports^SM announced today the launch of the inaugural Nuclear Cowboyz^SM 15-City tour, featuring the world’s top freestyle motocross riders in a never-before-seen action packed, record-breaking theatrical freestyle motocross production.

The Nuclear Cowboyz tour has assembled the world’s greatest cast of freestyle motocross riders, including Adam Jones, Mike Mason, Nate Adams, Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Ronnie Faisst, Todd Potter, Beau Bamburg, Nixey Danielson, Jim McNeil, Dustin Miller, Matt Buyten, Brian Foster, and Jimmie McGuire. These legends of freestyle motocross will synchronize awe-inspiring tricks, like the amazing front flip, while attempting to break world records in a heart pounding two-hour scripted performance.

“Nuclear Cowboyz truly is the dawn of a whole new freestyle motocross experience with the best FMX riders in the world performing together in one explosive theatrical production,” says Kenneth Feld, Producer and CEO of Feld Entertainment, Inc. “Nuclear Cowboyz will ignite the arena floor with freestyle motocrossers defying gravity in this post-apocalyptic atmosphere, leaving the audience with an unbelievable and unprecedented adrenaline-rush. This Feld Motor Sports production is going to be the greatest, most exciting freestyle motocross show ever produced.”

The Nuclear Cowboyz tour is creating a new frontier in freestyle motocross by combining the high-octane sport and the high caliber of entertainment production for which Feld Entertainment is known. The story line rips wide open when the Nuclear Cowboyz reunite after chaos rocks their world. The sparse population divides into two tribes which operate without governance and compete for supremacy of their new world.

“Fans will be blown-away by this new freestyle motocross performance format which includes a special appearance by Derek Guetter presenting an extraordinary back-flipping quad,” says Charlie Mancuso, President of Feld Motor Sports. “New creative elements are integrated throughout the show and include the exclusive Nuclear Cowgirlz^TM dancers, the latest pyrotechnics and pulsating hard rock music, exotic acrobatic fire presentations, sky-high stilt walkers, astonishing fire-breathers and the famed “Grindergirl.”

Creating the powerful world of Nuclear Cowboyz includes:

• Barry Lather (Director and Choreographer) – returns to Feld Entertainment from his most recent work with Rihanna’s Girl Gone Bad Tour, soul artist Estelle and ABC’s Dancing With The Stars;
• Micky Dymond (Rider Choreographer and Stunt Coordinator) – A two-time AMA Motocross Lites class National Champion, Dymond brings his racing skills to choreograph the world’s greatest FreestyleMotocross riders:
• Todd Jendro (Sr. Operations Director) – brings more than 25 years of two-wheel expertise and directs all of Feld Motor Sports’ two wheel properties, including Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross, and Freestyle Motocross.
• Brian Wallenbeck (Director Freestyle Motocross) – brings five years of proficient industry operations knowledge and directs the freestyle motocross property for Feld Motor Sports.
• Jesse Blevins (Lighting Designer) – has overseen spectacular lighting scenery for a variety of performers and performances including his latest for this year’s No Doubt Tour with lead singer, Gwen Stefani;
• Rick Papineau (Scenic Designer) – Vice President of Scenic Elements for Feld Entertainment who creates props, scenic elements and special effects for all corporate touring shows;
• Dawna Oak (Costume Designer) – brings veteran experience in managing the exotic and breathtaking costumes for the thousands of performers from Feld Entertainment’s numerous productions.

History will be made January 2nd when Feld Motor Sports debuts Nuclear Cowboyz at Pittsburgh’s Mellon Arena. The non-stop, aerial amazement of this new frontier in freestyle motocross will travel to 15 North American cities in 2010.

2010 Nuclear Cowboyz^SM Tour Schedule
January 2 Pittsburgh, Pa. Mellon Arena
January 8-9 Richmond, Va. Richmond Coliseum
January 16-17 Boston, Mass. TD Garden
January 23 Dallas, Texas American Airlines Center
January 30 Houston, Texas Reliant Stadium
February 6 Indianapolis, Ind. Lucas Oil Stadium
February 13 Atlanta, Ga. Georgia Dome
February 19-20 Tampa, Fla. St. Pete Times Forum
February 26-27 East Rutherford, N.J. IZOD Center
March 6-7 Birmingham, Ala. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
March 12-13 San Diego, Calif. Sports Arena
March 19-20 Tacoma, Wash. Tacoma Dome
March 26-28 Anaheim, Calif. Honda Center
April 2-3 Ontario, Calif. Citizens Bank Arena
April 17-18 Rosemont, Ill. Allstate Arena

Tickets are available for the 2010 Nuclear Cowboyz tour, please visit www.nuclearcowboyz.com, www.ticketmaster.com, www.tickets.com.

About Feld Motor Sports^SM
Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy® Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Freestyle Motocross, Nuclear Cowboyz^SM and IHRA® Nitro Jam®.  Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment.  For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

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Finland’s 2007 Formula One champion Kimi Räikkönen could be close to agreeing a deal with Citroën to compete in the World Rally Championship next year.

The WRC website reported on Friday that nothing was signed yet but quoted a source close to the former McLaren and Ferrari driver saying only small details remained to be tied up before an official announcement. It said the 13-event programme was believed to be funded by energy drink company Red Bull, a Citroën sponsor which also has its own Formula One teams.

Citroën could offer Räikkönen a competitive car, with Frenchman Sébastien Loeb having taken the rally world title for the past six years.

Räikkönen had said he was planning to take a year out of Formula One after being replaced at Ferrari by Spain’s double world champion Fernando Alonso and failing to reach an agreement with McLaren.

The Finn has made it clear he would not race for a Formula One team that could not offer him a chance of fighting for the championship, but his management has said he is open to offers from Mercedes.

Mercedes has taken over championship-winning Brawn GP and still has a vacancy alongside young German Nico Rosberg after world champion Jenson Button went to McLaren.

Räikkönen, 30, has previous WRC experience having competed in this year’s Finnish round in a Fiat after also entering three non-championship events.

Red Bull, Formula One runners-up this season, could also have a seat for him in Formula One in 2011 with Australian Mark Webber out of contract at the end of next season.

Check out all latest sports information on Onlinesports blog!

Consisting of more profound front fascia wider fenders new exhaust aero wing for starters, and a sleu of performance features this Lambo is going to turn heads with the exhaust note and the slick purposeful styling.

with wider fenders and slightly deeper dams this is sure to give your cls a subtle yet profound change to set you apart from the rest of your crew.

Some more updates of the c63 widebody D2 wide version.
Sport Exhaust

seductioninc.wordpress.com

As I stated I would show some more pics of the completed wide body C63 with some of the performance upgrades. check out info and pics below. For more information on acquiring this kit contact GTPRO.COM.

Conversion contents

D2 complete wide chassis:
−D2 front wide bumper
−D2 front carbon lip
−D2 front wide fender
−D2 side skirt extension
−D2 rear apron
−D2 rear wide fender

C63 D2 optional eye Thames:
−D2 rear carbon diffuser
−D2 stainless steel sport muffler
Blackout inside – front headlight
−D2 front headlight carbon trim
−AMG Styling W 19inch
−D2 suspension kit by H&R

seductioninc.wordpress.com

seductioininc.wordpress.com

Some early in the day flat light, some afternoon great light and some early evening darkness lighting challenges.

I had mentioned quite a few posts ago about working on the ASI INVADER Ferrari F430 for the 2009 SEMA YEAR. Well, unfortunately a plethora of things happened, schedulings and what not and was unable to complete it. BUT, not showing up to SEMA without the Ferrari was not an option. So To no avail the quality work and team that brought this together was GT Pro in conjunction with Mastermind (TR Trading). The Amazing thing is the whole project took about 2 weeks to build, and was actually put together in three days. Such quality work in a short amount of time is highly impressive and I am glad to see that the car was able to show up.

My obsession grows with every passing day for the the new entry level AMG Car. In which next year I will most likely pull the trigger on one if all the business plans go as planned then it will be a very feasible purchase. check out some pics and info below.

(from Mercedes-Benz Press Release) In the German Touring Car Championships (DTM) the new AMG C-Class ensures exciting motor racing at the highest level, and now its roadgoing sister model is celebrating its debut: the new C 63 AMG. Its AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine develops a peak output of 336 kW/457 hp and a maximum torque of 600 newton metres – unrivalled figures in this segment. Accordingly the C 63 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. In conjunction with an all-new front axle, speed-sensitive AMG sports steering and the new, 3-stage ESP Ò, the AMG sports suspension ensures both outstanding driving enjoyment and exemplary handling dynamics. A combination of expressive design, a decidedly sporty interior and a high level of everyday practicality makes the C 63 AMG a unique high-performance car. The market launch will commence in early 2008.

With the new C 63 AMG, Mercedes-AMG GmbH is making a confident statement to mark the 40th birthday of the company. The new V8 flagship model is now the fifth generation of the AMG C-Class, whose family tree goes back to the C 36 AMG of 1993 – the very first vehicle developed as a cooperative venture between Daimler-Benz and AMG.

Merely the appearance of the C 63 AMG is impressive enough, with its wide, road-hugging stance. The new bonnet with its prominent power domes conceals the independently developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which develops a fulminating 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm from a displacement of 6208 cubic centimetres. In this respect the C 63 AMG comes very close to the 470 or so horsepower delivered by the AMG C-Class racing touring car in the DTM series. This high output also benefits the power-to-weight ratio, which is a very favourable 3.6 kg/hp.

The torque developed by the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine need fear no comparison either. The maximum of 600 newton metres at 5000 rpm is unrivalled in this class, and the torque curve is equally impressive: from 2000 to 6250 rpm the driver always has more than 500 newton metres on tap – ideal for powerful acceleration in any engine speed range.

V8 with thoroughbred racing technology and a designer exhaust note

Introduced in 2005, the V8 engine is installed in numerous AMG high-performance cars and excels with its thoroughbred motor sports technology.

Perfect cylinder charging is guaranteed by the vertical arrangement of the intake and exhaust ducts, as well as the magnesium variable intake manifold with two integral throttle flaps. Other high-tech features include variable camshaft adjustment, four-valve technology with bucket-type tappets, a particularly rigid aluminium crankcase of closed-deck design and the low-friction TWAS coating on the cylinder contact surfaces.
Among the particular strengths of the AMG V8 engine are outstanding responsiveness and enormous pulling power – by virtue of its large displacement, it develops over 30 percent more torque than comparable engines in this performance class. Electronically controlled fuel delivery is another reason for the outstanding agility and responsiveness to movements of the accelerator. With its sporty AMG sound, which was designed-in during a series of sophisticated trials, this eight-cylinder powerpack from Affalterbach offers the unique excitement of a fast-revving, naturally aspirated engine – an audible and immediate experience whether at low, medium or high engine speeds.

In the interests of optimal reliability, the C 63 AMG has a particularly efficient water cooling system and large engine and transmission oil coolers. Located behind the large apertures in the AMG front apron, these coolers ensure non-critical operating temperatures at all times – even under the extreme stress of the racetrack.

Like all AMG high-performance engines, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 is built in the AMG engine shop on the traditional “one man, one engine” principle. This means that one technician is responsible for hand-assembling a complete V8 engine to the highest quality standards – which is attested to by his signature on the AMG engine plate.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC with blipping function

This high-performance eight-cylinder engine has the perfect partner in the form of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. Equipped with AMG steering wheel shift paddles and three driving modes, the seven-speed automatic transmission allows a decidedly sporty or more comfort-oriented style of driving according to the driver’s preference. The different modes – “S” (Sport), ” C” (Comfort) and “M” (Manual) differ in their shift characteristics and speed: gearshifts in “S” mode are around 30 percent faster than in “C”, and no less than around 50 percent faster in “M” mode.

Pressing a button is sufficient to activate the desired driving programme.

The new C 63 AMG is the very first AMG car to feature an automatic throttle-blipping function during downshifts. This not only enhances the driver’s emotional experience – the almost completely jolt-free downshifting process also reduces the load-change responses and has a particularly positive effect when braking before bends on the racetrack.

Redesigned front axle with 35-millimetre wider track

The C 63 AMG owes its outstanding handling dynamics to the AMG sports suspension and an all-new three-link front axle design. The stiff configuration of the springs and gas-pressure shock absorbers ensures optimal road contact and low body movements when negotiating serpentine bends at speed. The new front axle has a 35-millimetre wider track – visible by the more widely flared wheel arches – and therefore ensures lower dynamic wheel loads when cornering. A number of features make for substantially more stability and precision in all driving situations: the redesigned wheel location at the front axle is 100 percent more rigid, leading to a considerable improvement in steering precision. Another benefit makes itself felt when braking, as the new wheel location ensures an immediate response even under high dynamic stresses.

In combination with completely newly configured elasto-kinematics, the new wheel location provides greatly improved lateral dynamics and allows the driver of the C 63 AMG to benefit from significantly higher cornering speeds. A larger torsion bar stabiliser, new head bearings and dampers with rebound buffer springs further enhance this stability and precision. Steering feedback is also improved by the new kinematics. The speed-sensitive AMG sports steering has a ratio of 13.5:1, but feels more direct as a result of moving what is termed the instant centre of motion at the front axle. A more rigid Hardy disc in the steering column, as well as modified steering characteristics, make a further contribution to increased precision.

The multi-link independent rear suspension has also been thoroughly re-engineered, with a twelve-millimetre wider track and more camber leading to improved cornering performance. Reinforced drive shafts and drive joints increase fatigue strength and round off the improvements to the rear suspension of the C 63 AMG.

The completely newly developed AMG sports suspension combines outstanding handling dynamics with the long-distance comfort to be expected of a Mercedes – which also means that the C 63 AMG has the characteristic virtues of a genuine AMG.

18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, 19-inch wheel/tyre combination on request

The C 63 AMG is appropriately fitted with new, 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-spoke design. Painted in titanium grey, these high-sheen wheels in size 8.0 x 18 and 8.5 x 18 are shod with wide-base tyres in size 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear). Even more dynamic handling is made possible by the optionally available 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design. The front wheels are in size 8.0 x 19 with 235/35 tyres, with 9.0 x 19 wheels and 255/30 R 19 tyres at the rear.
Generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system

Internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes all-round reside behind the spokes of the AMG wheels. The front brakes have size 360 x 36-millimetre discs with six-piston fixed callipers, while deceleration at the rear is by 330 x 26-millimetre discs with four-piston fixed callipers. The AMG high-performance braking system is characterised by great sensitivity and high fade-resistance.

3-stage ESPÒ with Sport function as a new feature in the C 63 AMG

The Electronic Stability Program ESPÒ is specifically configured for the dynamic performance of the C 63 AMG, which is the first AMG model to feature the 3-stage ESPÒ with a Sport function. This system offers three different control settings, and is a logical further development of the AMG ESPÒ philosophy. The ESP key in the centre console enables the driver to choose between three modes – “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT” and “ESP OFF” – the currently active mode is shown in the central display of the AMG instrument cluster.

In “ESP ON” mode, the onset of handling instability leads to braking intervention at one or more of the wheels, accompanied by a reduction in engine torque. Briefly pressing the ESP key activates “ESP SPORT”. In this mode the braking intervention to counter oversteer or understeer, as well as the accompanying reduction in engine torque, allows a higher dynamic threshold and, for instance, corresponding drift angles – which means that the driver of the C 63 AMG benefits from considerably more active driving pleasure. ESP Ò is restored to its normal function as soon as the brake pedal is operated.

Prolonged pressure on the ESP key activates “ESP OFF”. There is no intervention to control the handling dynamics, and no reduction in engine torque – thus increasing driving enjoyment even further. “ESP OFF” should only be used by experienced drivers on dedicated racetracks. In this mode too, operating the brake pedal restores all the normal functions of ESPÒ. The system’s traction logic is active in all three ESP Ò modes. If one of the drive wheels threatens to spin, specific brake pressure is applied to create the effect of a mechanical differential lock. This means that the engine power is optimally transferred to the road.

More distinctive exterior design than ever before

It is not only in technological but also in visual terms that the new C 63 AMG is more distinctively different from the standard C-Class than ever before. The front end is dominated by the new bonnet with its two pronounced power domes, as well as the trademark AMG radiator grille with a central star and two louvres with chrome inserts. The honeycomb pattern of the grille is also reflected in the large air dams of the new, athletically contoured front apron which forms part of the AMG-specific bodystyling. The fog lamps with chrome surrounds are spaced well apart, acting together with the flared front wheel arches to accentuate the width of the car – with the striking transition from the front apron to the wings leaving a particularly strong impression. The side air vents in the front apron serve to expel the hot air from the oil coolers. If the C 63 AMG is specified with the optional bi-xenon headlamps or the Intelligent Light System, the headlamps are also dark-tinted.

Eye-catching features when viewed from the side include the 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, the harmoniously integrated “6.3 AMG” lettering on the front wing and the AMG side skirts. At the rear the standard LED rear lights, the AMG rear apron with its black diffuser insert and three pronounced diffuser fins, as well as the AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome twin tailpipes, provide further visual highlights that are hallmarks of the brand. The AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid reduces lift and ensures greater handling stability at high speeds.

AMG interior with new sports seats and performance steering wheel

This decidedly sporty theme is continued in the interior of the C 63 AMG, which now has special AMG sports seats with integral head restraints for the first time. The seats not only feature a new design with cross-piping and AMG lettering, but also an adaptive backrest with adjustments for the side bolsters and lumbar support. The standard upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/AMG fabric is available in a choice of black or reef grey – or as an option the interior can be further enhanced with particularly high-grade leather in black, reef grey or black/sahara beige. Perfect handling control is assured with the new AMG performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design, which has a rim diameter of 365 millimetres and a flattened lower section. The upper section is covered in perforated leather, and two silver AMG shift paddles enable the gears to be shifted manually.

AMG main menu with a wide variety of displays

The trademark AMG instrument cluster in a tubular design features newly styled dials, AMG-specific lettering and a new night-time design. Eye-catching details include the 320 km/h speedometer scale, AMG lettering, red needles and the “6.3 V8″ logo in the rev counter. The AMG main menu in the central display allows numerous settings, with “Warm Up”, “Set Up” and “RACE” modes activated via buttons on the AMG performance steering wheel. “Warm Up” displays the engine oil and coolant temperature, “Set Up” the current ESP Ò mode and the transmission mode “S”, “C” or “M”. “RACE” mode makes the RACETIMER available, with which the driver is able to measure lap times on a racetrack.

Development and design of the C 63 AMG

Creating a new car is a complex undertaking, and this certainly applies to the new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG whose conceptual phase commenced in 2004. This began with the fundamental feasibility study known as packaging. The new C 63 AMG was first constructed as a digital model, the engine, cooling system, fuel system, drive train and axles being “married” with the bodyshell to examine buildability. In spring 2005 the first 1:4-scale design models were produced on the basis of drawings and computer images, and in addition the first testing & development vehicles were already built on the basis of the preceding C 55 AMG. This made it possible to test major assemblies such as the drive train, brakes and axles. The latest onboard measuring technology provided valuable data such as engine oil, coolant and brake disc temperatures – but other aspects of interest were lap times e.g. on the north loop of the Nürburgring, as well as measurable, precisely defined handling manoeuvres to provide comparisons between different axle configurations. These tests were accompanied by extensive aerodynamic tests on the bodyshell of the C 63 AMG, and it was only then that the final design was approved.

Following approval of the concept in the autumn of 2005, the first fully-fledged prototypes of the C 63 AMG were built. At the same time the high-performance saloon was also produced as a digital prototype. Computer simulations made it possible for the “real” development prototypes to exhibit a very high level of maturity during the first rollout. These simulations included the most important vehicle functions, such as handling dynamics, the engine and drive train, bodyshell durability, suspension performance, passive safety, the engine’s thermal characteristics and performance/fuel consumption.

From Affalterbach to every climatic zone on earth

The standardised and highly sophisticated AMG development and test programme for the C 63 AMG began in summer 2005. Over the next couple of years around 20 vehicles were dispatched all over the world from Mercedes-AMG GmbH in Affalterbach, to be subjected to strenuous tests in every climatic zone.

Test, analyse and optimise – that is the creed of the specialists at AMG to achieve the objectives laid down in the book of specifications. Another decisive aspect was an ongoing dialogue between Design and Development, so that any necessary technical modifications were also implemented in design terms.

I am usually not a big fan of most of anything that Mansory makes. But, Lately I have had a fascination with their carbon fixation. for example their Aston Martin Mansory Cyrus. This car is based on an Aston Martin DB9 and has completely been resurfaced and rebuilt with Aerospace pre-preg carbon fiber, and gets 28 extra horses.

Every Bit has been redone in Carbon Fiber with the exception of the rear fenders because they couldn’t shape the carbon fiber accordingly, so the carbon fiber adhered to the existing fenders and extended in width by two inches from the original car. The new Carbon Panels are glued to the standard panels with adhesive bought from Lamborghini. Otherwise it’s all CF. The Roof scoop is unfortunately non functional but hey sometimes that wig on that hot girl does the job. The Cyrus will run you €380,000 on top of a DB9.Which I say is not all bad for a full carbon piece.

Les 10 ans de Fatlace ont été une réussicite.

Beaucoup de monde au shop et une super ambiance.

Le lendemain c’était le Hellaflush 3, le rassemblement qu’il ne fallait pas rater.

Bon je l’ai raté.

Mais je suis sur que mon voyage en CA sera une tuerie.

get ready

Jenson Button’s credentials to wear the world drivers’ crown were praised on Wednesday by a man who won three Formula One titles – Niki Lauda.

Lauda brushed aside suggestions that Button did not deserve the honour after limping to the title without a win in the second half of the season.

The 60-year-old Austrian told the sport’s official website: “Worthy or unworthy is the wrong approach. A world champion is a world champion. You might argue about the manner in which he won, but history has shown that in some years you have guys who win everything, and then you have guys – and I count myself among these – who win with a half point lead in the last race.

“There are many ways to win a championship. He put in a good season: starting very strong at the beginning to forge ahead and then keeping the lead through difficult times of constantly losing points, but still staying in front. Yes, the 60th Formula One world champion is a worthy champion.”

With Button quitting Brawn GP for a seat alongside his compatriot Lewis Hamilton at McLaren reports have surfaced about a possible return by seven-time champion Michael Schumacher.

The German Formula One legend has been linked to Button’s vacant seat at Mercedes GP, formerly Brawn, alongside recently signed up German Niko Rosberg, but Lauda was dismissive of a Schumacher comeback in 2010.

“I don’t believe that there is one single grain of truth in them (the rumours),” he said. “There was a window of opportunity after Felipe’s (Massa’s) accident and had Michael been fit he would have taken up that chance to race for three or four races – to prove himself, get the adrenaline rush, and see where he stood in the pecking order, but I cannot believe that he would be up for a full season. Why then he did stop racing in the first place?”

Former Renault chief Flavio Briatore’s appeal against a lifetime ban for ordering Nelson Piquet junior to crash at the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix began in the High Court in Paris on Tuesday.

The flamboyant Italian, who is also seeking one million euros in damages from motorsport’s governing body the FIA, did not appear in person at the hearing before the Tribunal de Grande Instance.

Pat Symonds, Renault’s former chief engineer who is appealing his five year ban from Formula One, was also absent on day one of the case.

A verdict is expected on 5 January.

Briatore and Symonds were targeted as the main culprits in the affair that rocked F1 when the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council met in Paris to rule on the case in September.

The scandal centered on former Renault driver Piquet junior’s claims that he had been ordered to deliberately crash at Singapore last year to enable teammate Fernando Alonso, who started from 15th, to win the race.

Briatore’s lawyer, Philippe Ouakrat, told the court: “My client vigorously and utterly contests having been aware of such a conspiracy. The FIA has to overturn its decision… because it’s an illegal order in terms of its results and the manner in which it was carried out.”

Jean-François Prat, representing the FIA, countered by insisting there was a definite link between Piquet’s crash, and Briatore.

“He (Piquet) accepted to do it (crash) because he wanted to see his driver’s contract renewed for the next season and it was Flavio Briatore who was in charge of these questions.”

Briatore’s responsibility was therefore “obvious”, Prat told the court.

In a statement released last month when Briatore announced he was challenging his ban he described his punishment as “a legal absurdity” and expressed confidence that the High Court in Paris would find in his favour. Spelling out the main grounds for his action Briatore listed the FIA’s “deliberate breach of rights of the defence, a breach of the rules of natural justice and the FIA’s manifest excess and abuse of power.” Briatore is challenging what he claimed was the FIA’s lack of impartiality and the disproportionate and illegal nature of an indefinite boycott.

He said: “In this case the FIA has been used as a tool to exact vengeance on behalf of one man. This decision is a legal absurdity and I have every confidence that the French courts will resolve the matter justly and impartially.”

Britain’s Paul di Resta, the cousin of IndyCar champion Dario Franchitti, will test for Force India in Spain next week along with young American J.R. Hildebrand, the Formula One team said on Tuesday.

Team owner Vijay Mallya said both were being considered for a permanent role as test and reserve driver next season.

Di Resta, 23, competes for Force India’s engine partners Mercedes in the German touring car championship. The Scot has also twice tested for McLaren.

Hildebrand, 21, is the Indy Lights series champion and the Californian will be the first American to test a Formula One car since Scott Speed was at Toro Rosso in 2007.

Mallya said both had stood out in tests in the McLaren simulator.

“We will be looking at their performance on track very closely and should they perform well, as we are confident they will, we will look at a permanent role for one within the team in 2010, potentially as a test and reserve driver,” he added.

“As a young team we are looking for drivers who can grow with us. As we’ve always said, nationality isn’t the primary selection criteria — it’s talent and dedication to the cause and we have seen enough to know that these two have both.”

The Jerez tests will be the first since the season ended this month and are designed to give young drivers more experience.

“F1 has always been my dream and I feel this is taking me one step closer to achieving it,” said Di Resta.

“I’m realistic that I’ve got a lot to prove and that I need a bit more experience of the cars and the F1 environment before getting a permanent seat but this is just the beginning of what I hope will be a very bright future with Force India.”

Hildebrand said he was up for the challenge.

“As an American we don’t necessarily have the culture of F1 but anything that’s so impressive and cutting-edge demands respect. I hope I can do the car and myself justice,” he added.

The Mercedes GP Formula One team (formerly Brawn GP) named former Williams driver Nico Rosberg as one of their 2010 drivers on Monday.

Rosberg, son of Finland’s 1982 world champion Keke, will be the first German to race for a factory Mercedes team since Karl Kling and Hans Herrmann competed for the old ‘Silver Arrows’ in 1955.

The 24-year-old has spent the last four seasons at Williams, with second place in Singapore last year his best result in 70 starts.

Mercedes has been the engine supplier to McLaren, who will have an all-British line-up next year with Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button, since 1995, but has now taken over British-based champions Brawn GP.

Brawn, which emerged from the remains of the Honda team, won both titles in its debut 2009 season with Button and Brazilian Rubens Barrichello, who has taken Rosberg’s place at Williams.

“It’s quite a special thing,” Rosberg told reporters. “It’s about time that a German was in a Silver Arrow again.”

Rosberg, whose signing was an open secret in Formula One circles, expects to win races next year.

“I am going to have a great car and I really believe that I am going to be able to take them (Hamilton and Button) on,” he said, also naming Red Bull and Ferrari as leading rivals.

Team principal Ross Brawn, who worked with Keke, described Nico as a great talent and “a driver who will be able to make a valuable contribution to our team right from the outset.”

Mercedes has yet to name its second driver, amid persistent rumours that former champion Michael Schumacher could come out of retirement at the age of 41 to fill the vacancy left by Button. Asked to rule out the possibility, Mercedes motorsport vice-president Norbert Haug and Brawn chief executive Nick Fry both failed to do so.

“We are here today to talk about Nico and I think we should stick to that subject,” said Fry.

“I fully understand that these speculations are ongoing as long as we did not announce who is driving the other car, but that’s what we have to live with at the moment,” added Haug.

Schumacher’s spokeswoman said at the weekend that she considered a return “highly unlikely at the moment”.

Rosberg said he did not mind who Mercedes signed, providing he was a team player, but would not comment on Schumacher.

Finland’s 2007 champion Kimi Raikkonen, who has announced plans to take a year out after leaving Ferrari, could be another option while Germany’s Nick Heidfeld is also available.

Fry said the approach to Rosberg had been made during the season and before Mercedes expressed an interest in buying the team.

Nico was due to join Brawn under any circumstance,” he said. “We are extremely pleased that the circumstances have worked out as they have done but the negotiation was done principally with the Brawn team and myself and Ross.

]]> http://alphadogphoto.wordpress.com/2009/11/24/november-12-2009-phoenix-international-raceway-copper-world-classic/ Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:34:56 +0000 alphadogphoto http://alphadogphoto.wordpress.com/2009/11/24/november-12-2009-phoenix-international-raceway-copper-world-classic/

Whenever I get the opportunity to photograph a motorsports event I’m always excited. I love the smell of racing fuel and the sound of race cars. Mostly these guys do this kind of stuff flat-out sideways on dirt, but this time they had to try to keep the cars pointed “mostly” down-track and on bumpy pavement. Welcome to USAC racing and the Copper World Classic.

USAC Copper World Classic race at Phoenix International Raceway

I love this image because there is just so much going on and it is loaded with detail.

USAC Copper World Classic race at Phoenix International Raceway

USAC Copper World Classic race at Phoenix International Raceway

USAC Copper World Classic race at Phoenix International Raceway

USAC Copper World Classic race at Phoenix International Raceway

USAC Copper World Classic race at Phoenix International Raceway