Evel Knievel dies

If you were a kid in the 70's this will be a hard one...Evel Knievel died. It's not news about toy cars but it's worth noting I think. I was one of the tons of kids that had a little white Evel Knievel motorcycle that you had a zip cord to get it reved up. I must have played with that until the wheels fell off...I loved that toy and it was one of the first memories I have of TV. Seeing Evel doing his daredevil riding and stunts. Anyway, here's a tribute from the AP on the icon.

And a story from AFP.

Exoto diecast news-Gorgeous Porsche's!

News and photos today from Exoto Diecast:

1977 World Champion and Le Mans Winner

Porsche 936/77 Werks Prototype Now Available for Pre-Order!

The historical significance of Porsche in sports car racing is unquestioned. The 908 and 917 were magnificent machines, but technology was developing rapidly through the 70s and Porsche was determined to lead. Before the 956 and 962 models of the 80s came the 936!

Tireless development at Porsche had resulted in the 911-based 934 RSR and 934 Turbo models to compete in Group 4 and Group 5. For the top tier of the World Sports Car Championship, Porsche produced the 936 model. With it's turbo-charged 2.142-liter engine, the 936 combined aspects of the 908/3, 917, and the outrageous 917/30!

Exoto continues to move the art of diecast engineering forward with our upcoming Porsche 936/77 releases. The details have to be seen to be believed. From miniature hose clamps made from photo-etch metal to our lustrous 11-step paint finish, and from the spinning cooling fan to the removable wheels, our 936 replica has been designed with you, the enthusiast, in mind.
Full opening panels, spring-loaded fuel filler caps and pedals, ventilated and machined metal brake discs turn within fixed calipers, masses of wiring and hoses, a moving shift linkage between the gear shifter and transmission all contribute to making our Porsche 936/77 one of our proudest achievements.

Limited Edition of Just 99 Replicas Speed-Weathered by Hand!
1973 Porsche 917/30 Can-Am in Finish Line Excess!

Even the "most perfect combination of man and machine ever seen", can have a bad day! Just five laps into the 1973 season opener at the fearsome Mosport circuit near Toronto, Canada, Donohue came over a crest to find a much slower car in his path. Locked in battle with Scheckters 917/10, the big Porsche shot off the track and suffered serious damage. Donohue was, however, persuaded back into the car once basic repairs were made.

Exoto's unparalleled "Finish Line Excess" edition is a sympathetic replica of Mark Donohue's 1973 Can-Am Porsche 917/30 as it appeared at Mosport! Each of the 99 very special Limited Edition miniatures is modified by hand with the Mosport race damage, the hastily applied tape repairs, and glorious one-of-a-kind speed weathering.

Life-Like Racing HO announcement

Exciting Product News from Life-Like Racing
Milwaukee, Wis., November 30, 2007–Life-Like Racing’s 2008 starting lineup will include the most popular driver in NASCAR®, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and NASCAR’s Cars of Tomorrow (CoT).

The Dale Earnhardt Jr. license will bring complete race sets, as well as a Fast TrackerTM two-pack, featuring both primary sponsor schemes–the AMP® #88 and National Guard® #88–to the Life-Like line.
And HO slot car enthusiasts will be able to race the newly designed Ford® Fusion, Chevy® Impala SS, Toyota® Camry and the Dodge® Avenger with the NASCAR Car of Tomorrow series, coming soon from Life-Like. Delivery of these new HO Scale products is expected in August 2008. About Life-Like Racing Based in Baltimore, Md., Life-Like Racing is a division of Wm.K.Walthers, Inc. of Milwaukee.

The Life-Like Racing arm offers a wide selection of quality HO Scale slot racing sets, cars and accessories. For more information on Life-Like Racing products, visit www.walthers.com.

New SCX Escort

This car is already out in Europe but I thought I'd pass the photos along anyway...should be a popular one!

New Spirit BMW 2002 Pneuhoge

This is the latest in the 1600/2002 series from Spirit and their first roadracing model of the 2002. The previous releases being a 1600 and a 2002 rally car. It uses the same chassis as the previous releases with a Slot it like motor pod held in with 4 screws, and the fully adjustable front axle with set screws above and below. It also has a powerful long can SxXx motor with 9/27 gearing using a brass pinion and alloy hub, set screw type crown. It also has a small bar magnet just ahead of the motor.



Spirit has done a very nice job with this series of cars. According to my calculations, all of the dimensions are nearly perfect 1/32 scale, with the length and wheelbase just slightly under scale. The paint is very smooth and crisp, with nice tampo printing of numbers and decals, but no clear coat. There is a moderate level of detail with both painted and chrome plastic trim in places. The interior is a bit sparse, with visible holes for the rally navigator, but a nicely detailed dash. The wheels appear to be the correct 13” diameter with nice black mesh inserts.




Spirit has made some very competitive LMP cars and with these little BMWs, they have set a new standard for small vintage racing chassis design. I was disappointed that this car had a rear wheel pressed on crooked, which eliminated the possibility for testing. Spirit has had some issues with wheels and axles, but it is a new company and I am sure this was just an anomaly. I really like Spirit’s cars and feel they have some of the most potential for tuning of any cars made right now. Keep an eye out for the Slot Car News team Spirit BMWs in the Canadian Proxy Race (CPR), as both Dave and I have prepared one of these neat little cars for battle!

Dodge Dakota MX Warrior At SEMA 2007

Designed from the outset to appeal to younger buyers who choose to pursue an active lifestyle, the Dodge Dakota MX Warrior is a design exercise suitably based around the theme of motocross racing. The MX Warrior's graphics were designed in conjunction with motocross rider and student in Creative Studies at Detroit, Scott Waraniak, and will be presented at next week's SEMA show.

Motocross is a sport in the extreme sense of the word, run on closed-course dirt tracks and demanding incredibly quick reflexes as well as great degrees of physical conditioning, concentration and practice to manouvere around the various course requirements from ruts and berms to 90-foot jumps and 180-degree tight turns.

The 'design splatter' embodies the sport and is styled by motocross racer #934 Waraniak, who races for KTM North America and Seattle's Jones Soda. The vinyl wrap encompasses a splash of Dodge's own identity, the choice of colours reflecting a youthful attitude: the splatter uses a bold 'O21orange' and 'battleship grey' to complement the MX Warrior's custom 'Surf Blue' paint job.

Enhancements to the car, bar its splash of colour, include the raising of the car's ride height by four inches and the fitting of 20-inch chrome alloys. Fender flares match the car's new vinyl wrap graphics while also serving as its protection. Chrysler's in-house metal shop customised the production of new steel front and rear bumpers to greater protect the car, with an extension to the truck bed and new taillamps also being new additions. A new one-off hood air intake allows greater air flow to the 4.7-litre Magnum V8 engine.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show runs at the Las Vegas Convention Centre from October 30th to November 2nd 2007.

The Dodge Dakota MX Warrior is a design exercise intended for the younger action-sports crowd. This authentic motocross-themed concept is a cooperative effort with Scott Waraniak. Waraniak is a design student at College for Creative Studies in Detroit and AMA District 14 motocross racer #936 who races for KTM North America and Seattle-based Jones Soda.

Motocross is an extreme sport run on closed-course, natural-terrain dirt tracks. Grabbing the holeshot and maneuvering through the ruts, berms, whoops, doubles, 90-foot jumps and 180-degree tight turns demands lightning-fast reflexes, physical conditioning, practice, concentration and speed. Forty racers compete in two 20-minute motos – mixing flying dirt and rocks with intimidation, adrenaline and horsepower. The outdoor motocross season runs from April to September, while the indoor supercross season runs from January through April. The sport continues to grow in popularity particularly with Gen X and Gen Y action-sport athletes in the United States, Europe and Japan.

With his likeness and signature on limited-edition bottles of Jones Soda, Waraniak [a West Bloomfield, Mich.-resident] provided his race-prepped bike for the project. He’ll use the 2008 KTM 450 SX-F in 2008 motocross season competition. He designed the graphics for both the bike and the Dodge Dakota MX Warrior.

The design team let Waraniak loose to design his “splatter” theme. The bold O21orange and battleship gray vinyl wrap is provided by Image Quest Graphics of Wixom, Mich. The Dakota/KTM 450 SX-F graphics integrate the podium performance of Dodge, Mopar and KTM Motorsports with Waraniak’s sponsors and the motocross industry’s leading icons and lifestyle companies:

• KTM North America of Amherst, Ohio
• Troy Lee Designs of Corona, Calif.
• FMF Racing of Rancho Dominguez, Calif.
• Alpinestars of Torrance, Calif.
• Spy Optics of Carlsbad, Calif.
• EVS Sports of Janesville, Wis.
• Cycra of Hebron, Ohio
• VP Racing Fuels of Wildomar, Calif.
• Maxima Racing Oils of Santee, Calif.
• Lake Cycle of Grand Haven, Mich.
• JP Speed of Holly, Mich.
• KTM Hard Equipment of Amherst, Ohio
• Michelin of Greenville, S.C.
• Powersport Grafx of North Wilkesboro, N.C.
• Xlox Systems of Calgary, Alberta
• SuperSports of Waterford, Mich.
• Skyjacker of Suspensions, West Monroe, La.
• Iniziale Designs of Roseville, Mich.
• KICKER® Audio of Stillwater, Okla.
• Jones Soda of Seattle, Wash.

To give the Dodge Dakota MX Warrior a proper stance and prove it can venture off-road, the suspension is raised four inches. It’s fitted with 20-in. chrome wheels from Mopar wrapped in 31-in. tires. TRX-4 fender flares cover the meats to keep the “splash” graphics fairly clean. To protect the front and rear, the Chrysler metal shop fabricated custom steel bumpers and an integrated warn winch mounted on the front bumper. There are also custom steel rock rails. The taillamps and bed extender were provided by Mopar. The steering wheel was provided by Grant Products. The Surf Blue paint with dark neutral metallic accents is courtesy of the Chrysler paint shop.

New Spirit kits and December news

Scion xD by Team Hybrid at SEMA

Engine

• Performance Solutions Spec Garrett turbo, intercooler, turbo manifold, intercooler piping, down pipe, GReddy B.O.V., waste gate, oil feed line, cat delete, MagnaFlow Titanium exhaust, intake filter, battery relocation kit
• SUN Automobile Hyper Ground System, Hyper Voltage System, Hyper InaZma ECO, InaZma Hyper Gauss, Hyper InaZma Pocket

Exterior

• House of Kolor (color pending)
• INGS+1 front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper
• Car Fashion carbon fiber hood, rear hatch spoiler
• Custom shaved and pulled fenders, shaved antenna
• L.A.P.D. strobe lights

Wheel/Tires/Brake/Suspension

• Wheels (Pending)
• HYBRiD style custom brakes
• Air Runner custom air suspension
• BFGoodrich Tires

Interior

• Status Racing Ring Carbon Kevlar seats x2
• Stitchcraft suede dash, suede gauge cluster, suede headliner, suede
  pillars, suede visors
• NRG Racing steering wheel
• SUN Automobile racing pedals, racing shift knob
• Glow Shift gauge pod, boost gauge, oil temp gauge, exhaust temp gauge, shift-warning light

In Car Entertainment

• CREATiVE Custom fiberglass sub enclosure, fiberglass amp rack enclosure, acrylic amp rack, diamond-cut acrylic "HYBRiD" imprinted
• SoundStream PCA4.520 4 channel amp x1, PCA1000D single channel amp x2, RFW-12 reference 12" woofers x4, TRC.6N Tarantula component x2, SST6.5 Tarantula speaker x2, VCM-151 15" LCD ceiling monitor (on hatch) x1, VCM-81D 8" LCD monitor with DVD player x2, VCCD-2 bullet style color camera x1, VSV-78 7" wide sun visor monitor x2, VVB-2 video output gain control x2

2006 Scion tC by Scion of Des Moines at SEMA

Under the Hood

• Turbonetics Turbo System T3/T04
• Spearco intercooler
• Fidanza aluminum flywheel
• Clutchmaster stage 3 Kevlar clutch
• TRD automatic torque biasing limited slip differential
• Creative Werks Inc. Optima battery tie down
• DME engine dress up kit
• Redline Tuning Hood QuickLIFT ELITE
• Custom hood panel by DeeZee
• Custom exhaust by Midas
• Flowmaster Hushpower II muffler
• KillerGlass
• Hotglow Neon (8 tubes)
• NOS nitrous oxide system single injector

Suspension

• Tanabe fully adjustable coil over suspension fully modified
• TRD strut tower brace
• TRD rear sway bar

Brakes

• TRD Celica big brake kit - front
• Stop-Tech rear big brake kit

Wheels & Tires

• HRE 5-spoke 19" wheels
• Pirelli P Zero Rosso
• 265/30ZR19 - front
• 305/30ZR19 - rear

Body

• Custom airbrushing, paint, and body by Custom Paint Specialists, Des Moines, Iowa
• Extreme Dimensions Rado Series Widebody kit
• Shaved bodylines, door handles, and fuel door
• Tinted headlights, brake lights, side lights, and windows
• PPG Vibrance Candy Sunset Red Over Fine Gold
• PPG ARG Vibrant Blue windshield
• AutoLoc shaved door kit
• HotGlow Neon (15 tubes)

Audio & Video

• Audio and video by Elite Styling and Sound, Des Moines, Iowa
• Eclipse AVN5495 navigation/DVD head unit, SW8000 Titanium 625-watt subwoofers (3), XA1000 1 channel class D subwoofer amplifiers (3), XA4000 4/3/2 channel class D amplifier, 6 1/2" component speakers (2 front), 6 1/2" coaxial speakers (2 rear), 6 1/2" component speakers (2 hatch)
• 26" LCD motorized monitor
• 7 1/2" LCD visor m(2)
• Kinetik batteries 800 watt (2)
• Optima Red Top battery
• CompuSTAR Premier remote start, alarm, and auto door opener

Interior

• Interior lighting, seats, and upholstery by Accurate Auto Trim, Ames, Iowa
• HotGlow Neon (10 tubes), LED's (34)
• AEM Tru Boost controller/gauge
• AEM Uego Wideband air fuel ratio
• AEM oil pressure gauge
• OBX sport pedals
• Sparco Milano 2 seats covered in Alcantara suede, 323 steering wheel, X-
• Speed shift knob
• Alcantara wrapped rear seat
• Suede headliner and trim
• Pattern Tek carbon fiber speedometer and door trim

SCX Renault Alpine-review

The name "Classics" is thrown around a lot in the slot car world. We all know what is meant by it when the name is shown to us don't we? Generally it's a slot car that's no newer than from the early 70's (most of the time from a considerably older era) AND there's the implication that you're not going to get a "30,000 rpm Terminator" or Insert-your-own-scary-sounding-motor-name-here motor. Well what springs to mind for me personally also is that the car will be easy to drive either on plastitrack or wood out of the box...in this case SCX has given slotters a great little car that fits the bill for a "Classic".

The SCX Renault Alpine A110 is a sexy little slot car with crystal clear blue paint and a charming personality on the track. Is it blindingly fast (keep in mind it's powered by an SCX RX-41B), well...no. Is it appropriately fast for a car of this type...YES. This car shouldn't be the fastest thing on the track because it's a model of a car with a horsepower rating only slightly higher than 100hp.

There's no motor pod, and really not much need for it maybe. The car required some truing of the wheels and the tires to smooth it out, but after that was done the car was really smooth and zipped around the 62-foot-long East New York routed wood track at just slightly faster than 10 feet per second. Times started out in the high 6's and dropped to about 6.1 fastest lap...I did say "just" slightly faster didn't I?


But to linger on the speed of this car is the miss the point entirely. If this car was flying around the track at Mach 5 you wouldn't get to enjoy the details like the chrome around the windows that's very well done and the little headlights on the car that are different colors when they're lit. There is light bleed that lights up the front a bit too much but when you see this car coming directly at you down the track, with the driving lights shining a yellowish/amber and the headlights a bluish/white and the fire red tail lights I have to say it's pretty cool.

While this car does come with the standard adjustable magnet system that SCX puts on all their cars, this car is equally at home in a non magnetic setting. The car weighs 70 grams and the downforce (as measured with a Magnet Marshal) is 228 grams. It's enough weight that you get the sense that it's well balanced for the size and for the power of the motor.

Volvo XC70 Surf Rescue Concept at SEMA

Volvo XC70 Surf Rescue On Patrol at the 2007 SEMA Show

Lifeguards on Southern California's famous beaches have been glamorized by Hollywood for decades. While they share the spirit of adventure and camaraderie, these dedicated men and women are highly trained professionals who take safety very seriously. Half a world away, a Volvo designer in Sweden who is captivated by lifeguard skill competitions accepted the challenge to design a show car for his heroes. The result, Volvo's XC70 Surf Rescue (SR) concept, pays homage to the brave individuals who protect and serve the ocean-going public.

At the Volvo Concept Center in Gothenburg, Sweden, Joel Alexandersson was charged with creating the conceptual design for a one-of-a-kind rescue vehicle that upholds Volvo's core value of safety in a bold and dynamic new way. The XC70 SR's interior concept was assigned to Volvo's styling center in Barcelona, Spain. Larry Abele, design manager at the Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center (VMCC) in Camarillo, California, coordinated the global teamwork and vehicle build.

As a testament to Volvo's advanced design capabilities, the XC70 SR concept was initially created in a virtual world. "The entire design process was performed digitally," says Abele. "This enabled us to review and modify the design in real time by projecting it onto large scale screens at each studio."

Volvo selected the Aria Group in Irvine, California, to build the concept. Starting with a production XC70, the Aria team completely stripped the vehicle of its paint, trim, bumpers and interior. Custom-designed parts were crafted for the concept without the traditional method of building clay models. Being able to go directly from digital designs to a process called rapid prototyping greatly reduces development time.

Guided by the surfing lifestyle and casual beach culture, the XC70 SR's paint scheme is developed specifically for the show car by DuPont. Colors are selected from DuPont's Global Advanced Design Show, which represents cutting edge trends in automotive color. The exterior yellow is a multi-layer effect coating incorporating a vibrant color with pearl like qualities. The secondary red uses a tinted clear to produce high chroma with warm undertones. These exotic finishes use DuPont's wet on wet coating technology for multi layer effects without the high cost of multiple baking steps.

Eye-catching Surf Rescue graphics are added for instant recognition on a crowded beach. The exterior also sports a custom-crafted front fascia that wears a one-off milled aluminum billet grille. Front and rear skid plates and wider wheel lip cladding provide extra body protection from flying sand. The new fascias also reduce front and rear overhang, thereby improving approach and departure angles.

The chassis is lifted an additional five inches from the stock ride height for improved ground clearance. It also makes way for a massive set of custom designed 20-inch wheels and Pirelli 275/45R20 tires made specifically for the XC70 SR. The tread is designed for increased grip on loose and sandy soil with the flexibility to provide excellent traction both on and off the road. The rear subframe is beefed-up for added ruggedness with milled aluminum billet components.

True to form, the XC70 SR is topped by a unique aerodynamically designed roof-mounted emergency light bar integrated with a rescue board rack. Not only does this treatment contribute to the stunning good looks of the vehicle, it also helps to reduce wind drag by attaching directly to the XC70's OEM supplied roof rails.

When it's time to respond to a call, the driver or front passenger can activate a barrage of flashing blue strobe emergency lights. In addition to the roof, they're neatly inset into the lower front valance panel, headlight and rear combination light clusters as well as the inside rearview mirror.

Lifeguards get wet and sandy on the job so the interior is modified for heavy-duty use - without sacrificing style. The XC70's standard front bucket and folding rear seats are recovered in wetsuit style neoprene fabric that's custom tailored in black and gray with bright yellow inserts. Decorative interior panels throughout the cabin are yellow tinted with clear to segue with the spirit of the exterior hue.

Bulky emergency rescue gear housed in the cargo compartment can easily be accessed via the XC70's power rear tailgate. Secured to the neoprene covered floor are two scuba tanks, an oxygen tank, a small first aid kit, a resuscitator box and a large waterproof box containing additional medical supplies and surf rescue equipment.

The XC70's 3.2-liter in-line 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine produces 235 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. It's mated to a six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission that enables the driver to shift manually when desired. All-wheel-drive with Instant TractionTM is standard. Electronic Hill Descent Control (HDC) uses the vehicle's brakes and engine torque to crawl in bottom gear on steep downhill slopes.

Suzuki SXBox concept vehicle World Debut at LA

Last year, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) launched the “Suzuki LIVE Series” (LIFE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers. In concert with its “Way of Life” brand proposition, which promises products for active lifestyles, and to support the launch of the all-new XL7 and SX4, ASMC introduces four all-new “Suzuki LIVE Series” vehicles for 2007, illustrating how its cars and SUVs play an integral part of consumers’ everyday life.

The vehicles, coined BaseCamp for outdoor adventure enthusiasts; Flix for film and entertainment buffs; Zuk for motorcycle and racing aficionados; and SXBox for avid gamers; will be on display at various auto shows and lifestyle events around the country.

SXBox

Built by ASC of Huntington Beach, Calif., and based on the all-new SX4 compact sport X-over (crossover), the SXBox is designed for ultimate video game enthusiasts. The Suzuki SX4 concept receives mild performance upgrades, including high-flow airbox/intake, cat-back exhaust, an enhanced suspension and multi-piston alloy brake calipers mated to cross-drilled, vented rotors.

The SXBox also is equipped with an impressive, high-performance wheel and tire package, providing gamers with the means to get to the nearest gaming competition. When parked, the SXBox’s pearl white exterior is illuminated courtesy of a green LED accent kit.

The interior design of the SXBox features an ultra-high-tech, game-inspired color scheme throughout the inside of the vehicle, including recessed LED emitters to brighten the interior of the vehicle. The SXBox is outfitted with a dashboard-integrated Xbox 360 gaming console, coupled with a close proximity digital projection system to display enthusiasts’ game of choice on the interior of the vehicle’s retractable hood, easily enabled by the push of a button. A second Xbox 360 video game system powers two separate LCD display screens in the seat backs of the SXBox to provide gaming excitement for rear passengers. For gamers who prefer to stand and play, the SXBox is equipped with a 30-inch retractable rear projection screen in the cargo area.

Adding comfort and convenience to the idea of in-car gaming, the concept vehicle features high-relief, force-feedback front seats with game-station highlights to create a snug gaming environment and four wireless controllers, including a steering-wheel-mounted gaming control for the driver. In addition, the SXBox’s multi-speaker surround audio system with wide frequency response and thundering bass provides an intense atmosphere of video game stimulation.

STARTECH Jeep Compass Accessories

The Jeep Compass has arrived and in time for the market introduction of the new compact SUV STARTECH already offers an exclusive customization program and powerful performance tuning for the turbodiesel model.

The STARTECH SD3 performance kit for the diesel model consists of an auxiliary module that modifies the engine electronics. With it maximum power output of grows from stock 140 hp / 103 kW to 180 hp / 132 kW. At the same time peak torque increases to 360 Nm between 1,750 and 2.500 rpm.

As an optimal complement to the STARTECH SD3 power kit there is the STARTECH sport exhausts system with a large oval chrome tailpipe on either side. The fully stainless-steel precise-fit exhaust is available for all engine variants of the Compass, and lends the Jeep a more thrilling exhaust note. For customizing the exterior STARTECH offers a custom-tailored designer suit. In the front the Compass gets a new face with the STARTECH front fascia. Retaining the original mounting points means easy installation and optimal precise fit.

The sides of the five-door are refined by elegant STARTECH rocker panels that serve as running boards. The rear of the Jeep is modified with an element that attaches to the rear bumper. It features integrated cutouts for the STARTECH sport exhaust.

'20-inch diameter instead of the 18-inch stock wheels' is the motto of the exclusive STARTECH tire/wheel combination for the Compass. The Monostar IV five-spoke wheels are silver polished and in size 9Jx20 with size 245/35 R 20 tires they fill out the wheel houses nicely. STARTECH also offers progressive-rate springs that lower the ride height of the American SUV by some 30 millimeters. The lowered center of gravity gives the Jeep sportier and even safer handling characteristics.

STARTECH also adds exclusive and individual interior highlights. These include stainless-steel door sills with illuminated STARTECH logo, high-quality velour floor mats and the STARTECH Lifestyle interior upgrade package that gives the entire Compass cockpit a more elegant appearance.

Ford Verve 4-Door Concept Debut in Guangzhou

GUANGZHOU, China, November 19, 2007 – Ford is revealing more about its vision for a new global small car family at Auto Guangzhou. Ford today revealed the second Verve Concept – a four-door notchback.

The dynamic Ford Verve Concept four-door notchback is a star of the fifth annual Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition. The fact that Ford staged the global reveal of the four-door Verve Concept at Guangzhou signals the importance of Asia in Ford’s global plans.

Sporty and coupe-like, the Verve Concept notchback provides a very clear vision about Ford’s future small car design direction. The three-door hatchback Verve Concept was a star of the recent Frankfurt Motor Show in Europe, and it too is also under the spotlights at Guangzhou.

Ford will unveil the third and last Verve Concept in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

“With this new four-door Verve Concept, the picture of Ford's big plans for the small-car segment is becoming clearer,” said Phil Spender, Chief Operation Officer of Ford Motor (China) Ltd. “Our future small car is being developed as a global car. It will be designed in Europe, engineered in Germany and manufactured globally. These two Verve Concepts demonstrate how confident Ford is in its direction and its appeal to consumers here in China.”

Ford’s European design team created the Verve Concepts, which successfully apply Ford's kinetic design philosophy for the first time to a small car. The two Verve Concepts clearly display a European flair and premium touches not expected in this segment.

Once all have been revealed, the trilogy of Verve concept cars will provide an advanced indication of Ford’s design vision well in advance of the production models. This approach is similar to the way in which the iosis Concept preceded the new Ford Mondeo.

European Design

Side by side in Guangzhou, the two Verve Concepts bring the latest wave of Ford's kinetic design to the heart of Asia. Their colours are inspired by the world of fashion; the regal frosted grape of the new Verve Concept four-door notchback complements the bold magenta of the Frankfurt three-door hatchback like a well-coordinated ensemble.

“First it was the hatchback and now a very exciting and dynamic notchback,” said the father of kinetic design, Martin Smith, Ford’s Executive Director of European Design. “Looking at these concepts together, you can just imagine how exciting the successor to the Ford Fiesta will be when it hits the market.”

Public Response in Guangzhou

Ford designers, buoyed by the enthusiastic reaction in Europe to the first Verve Concept, will be carefully studying reactions to the new notchback by Chinese consumers.

Ford European design chief Smith said, “These Verve Concepts are a dynamic first public expression directionally of some of the thinking that will be contributing to the design DNA of our next-generation products. At this stage, we have had the freedom to be radically innovative, but I’m confident about the realistic possibilities for kinetic design to embrace this segment of vehicles.”

The latest Verve Concept builds on the very distinctive look of its hatchback sibling. These two concept vehicles share strong front-end graphics that, with the advent of the new Mondeo, are now becoming recognised as the bold, new face of Ford.

The notchback body form of the new concept family is linked with the hatchback through the use of form language composed of dynamic lines and full surfaces – the signature of kinetic design.

The new notchback execution brings new hints about Ford’s kinetic design approach to sedan variants of its future small car family.

Smith’s exterior design team – led by European Exterior Chief Designer Stefan Lamm – took full advantage of the notchback shape to stretch the kinetic design elements and create a very sleek and dynamically poised personality.

The notchback displays a sleek, pillarless side window profile providing a bold graphic statement, along with strongly defined wheel arches that communicate tension and muscularity. Its dramatic C-pillar shape contributes to this feeling of dynamism, while the rear body and decklid shapes coherently build on the toned and fit kinetic design look with full surfaces and bold lines.

As any top fashion model on the catwalk, Guangzhou’s new Verve Concept is dressed well. From its seductive colour to the smallest detail, Verve Concept evokes an air of premium quality not usually found in the small-car segment.

Despite the functional differences with the hatchback shape, the notchback’s rear design clearly displays the same kinetic design influences.

The rear glass of the Verve notchback is shaped to correspond with the forms of the high-mounted, two-piece tail lamps. This unique and premium execution, first seen on the new Mondeo, is now translated into a smaller car.

A dark chrome diffuser at the lower bumper is consistent with the design of the hatchback but shaped specifically for the notchback design.

Like its sibling, the notchback Verve’s face is bold and sporty, yet friendly and engaging. The front is dominated by a large, inverted trapezoidal lower grille and a large Ford oval badge centred in the compact upper grille opening.

The lower grille features a strong eggcrate graphic; its vertical and horizontal blades bonded by an array of intriguing ‘bullet’ shapes. The lower grille and badge treatment are the design team’s signature elements to communicate the Ford design DNA in future products.

The bonnet features highly sculpted dynamic forms. This form treatment combines with the more pronounced, rearward-stretching head lamp units – inspired by Mondeo – to give the face of the Verve a friendly, open and inviting personality. The prominent headlamps feature two projector beams and a light-emitting diode (LED) array.

The two Verve Concepts share a distinctive 18-inch, 12-spoke, two-piece alloy wheel design that lends more drama to the car. The wheels have a precise, jewel-like feel to their design. Both Verve Concepts’ are wearing low-profile tyres featuring a sidewall stripe that complements the exterior body colour.

“With a small car, for example a B-segment car compared to a larger car, we believe we can play up – or amplify – key elements of the kinetic design form language,” Lamm said. “It’s not just a matter of copy-and-paste from one vehicle segment to another but rather how to interpret the philosophy for each individual car. You can clearly see this when you compare the larger iosis Concept and this new project.”

Spirit Courage video...yes video!

This might be the first "official slot car" video I've seen on YouTube...and it's produced by the guys at Spirit!

And in case that wasn't enough, how about some technical data directly from Spirit?

Courage C65, most important technical data & innovations.
-Motor xXx
-Adjustable suspension system in 3 points (1 front, 2 sides)
-New subchassis – chassis system
-Calibrated axles
-Adjustable front axle
-New crown, injected in dark grey fiber, with a better gearing with pinion.
-Light lexan detailed cockpit
-Body weight: 14’8 grs.


BTW, I've heard from REH and Kimrey Enterprises that the Courage should be here today!

PPI-tuned Audi R8 to Muscle in at Essen Show

The PPI R8 and PPI R8 Razor – automobile lifestyle in carbon fibre

With the launching of the R8, Audi heats up against rivals Porsche, Ferrari and Bentley vigorously providing stiff competition. The Swabian, German tuners PPI Automotive Design GmbH, customize Audi’s flagship sportscar by stoking up the fire with even more coal going that extra mile by providing an enhanced look combined with improved driving dynamics. A wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic kit of carbon fibre in combination with a performance enhancement and special lightweight magnesium wheels in 19-inch dimensions provides measurably improved appearance whether on the race track or the elegant promenade of the elite jet set.

Optimised performance for better resilience and increased driving pleasure

The stage 1 kit produces an increase power output of the original motor from 309kw/420hp to 348kw/460hp and increases torque from 430Nm/317lb-ft to 465Nm/343lbs-ft. A performance kit with durable components designed by PPI consists of corrosion resistant stainless steel sport rear muffler with throttle system. Just beginning at low-end torque, the resulting sound signals pure power, but with high speeds one experiences an even more imposing sound. Matched to this is a complete optimised engine management plus sport air filter providing the unit with extra breathing abilities. Results are a top speed of 305 km/h and sprinting from 0-100 km/h in only 4,4 seconds; a two-tenths decrease versus standard production.

PPI aerodynamics: continued further development in carbon fibre

Without being overstated, PPI’s approach to the R8 was to retain the standard series design, with the addition of PPI developed aerodynamics. All PPI aerodynamics for the R8 are made of carbon fibre. This material is commonly used in motor sports reducing general weight yet simultaneously increasing sturdiness. This material is already featured in the Audi base model. PPI consequently takes a further step applying carbon fibre as the main component with highest quality for its entire car body material. Furthermore, PPI production carbon fibre parts are available in glossy or matte finish. The PPI aerodynamics package includes a lift reducing front lip spoiler. This more aggressive front air damn is designed to channel air to the front brakes, and cut through the air. In addition, the PPI designed, front bumper air intake “cartridges” were created for OEM fitting, and for improved air ventilation of the front radiator with separate air channel for brake cooling. Side sills sedate air inflow between the axles and provide this vehicle with a sporty and aggressive look even when standing still. It’s lateral appearance is completed with side blades in carbon fibre matte finish as standard production series offers carbon fibre glossy only. The diffuser with integrated PPI-designed air channels for exhaust pipe cooling stabilizes the rear with extra downforce and directional stability. The new double-sided rear grill deflects engine heat and exhaust system outwards and flanks the middle PPI rear plate. Rear spoiler with its adjustable wing increases downforce on the rear axle and completes the sporty elegant look.

PPI MAG9: the lightweight wheel from PPI

The new PPI MAG9 wheel design characterises the connection of high technical demands to sporty elegance. The two-part magnesium wheel with nine spokes and a wheel rim of carbon fibre commands not only by its exclusive look, but also through its outstanding craftsmanship setting new benchmark standards in the Audi tuning arena. The offered PPI MAG9 comes in dimension 9 x 19 front and 11 x 19 rear. Through the use of ultra light material magnesium resulting in reduction of unsprung mass, acceleration as well as deceleration and handling are distinctly improved. Weighing a mere 7,8 kg for front axle rims and 8,2 kg for rear axle rims, the PPI wheel are absolute champions in the lightweight arena. Optimal tires developed for the PPI R8 Razor in cooperation with Michelin are the supplied Michelin Pilot Sport Cup in dimensions 235/35 ZR19 (front) and 305/30 ZR19 (rear).

Ideal interior engineering

To complete the exclusive enhancements of the R8, PPI offers extensive modifications in materials and parts to the original interior. PPI offers handbrake, door entry threshold plates and middle instrument panel in carbon fibre. The technical highlight of the interior is the new PPI designed ergonomic steering wheel (available with Carbon Fibre sections) with additional interface controls for its driving dynamical program. Offered on special request is a personalized floor mat set furnished with leather trim. Also available is complete hand crafted precision leather, suede, alcantara upholstery from our in-house saddlers.

Suzuki SXForce Concept at SEMA

American Suzuki Motor Corp. showcases four spirited and dynamic vehicles at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show, including its never-before-seen, sportbike-inspired SXForce LIVE vehicle based on the all-new 2008 four-door SX4 Sport. A vehicle designed for four-wheel and two-wheel tuner enthusiasts, SXForce communicates Suzuki's "Way of Life" brand philosophy as a company that builds fun-to-operate vehicles, from its widely recognized and high-performance motorcycles to its exciting and versatile cars and SUVs.

To further demonstrate the company's bold and adventurous DNA, Suzuki displays its SX4 WRC car and rugged Grand Vitara Dune LIVE vehicle – two Suzuki machines designed for ultimate off-road performance. In addition, Suzuki offers aftermarket enthusiasts a sneak preview of a number of performance-based concept accessories — specifically developed for this year's show — and an array of style-enhancing Genuine Suzuki Accessories for its 2008 five-door SX4 Crossover.

"Suzuki always looks forward to SEMA because of its upbeat and somewhat irreverent energy," said Gene Brown, vice president of marketing and PR, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. "The overall enthusiasm for cars and for life that underlies the entire event meshes perfectly with our brand philosophy and parallels the passion infused into the concepts we have on display this year and the vehicles currently in our showrooms."

SXForce

With the arrival of the 2008 SX4 Sport, Suzuki expands its highly popular and media-acclaimed Suzuki LIVE Series (LIFESTYLE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Reinforcing the link between the company's rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, Suzuki introduces the SXForce, a sportbike-inspired concept based on the on the all-new 2008 SX4 Sport. Designed and built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the SXForce boasts a powerful 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.

The exterior shell of the SX4 Sport has been modified to be eye-catching to both four-wheel and two-wheel enthusiasts. It features a striking blend of carbon fiber, Flash Pearl White and Orange Metallic paint and showcases a number of performance-based automotive parts and stunning motorcycle accents, including sportbike-style side rearview mirrors and dual exhaust, also found on the championship-winning GSX-R1000.

While the SXForce is sure to be a showstopper on display, it was designed to look even better on the road. The fully drivable, track-tested SX4 Sport concept receives several performance enhancements, including a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling. The SXForce is outfitted with 18-inch Enkei racing wheels and a staggered high-performance Toyo T1-R tire package - 225/45-18 in the front and 235/40-18 in the rear. It also is equipped with Rotora six-piston calipers with two-piece 355mm rotors for sportbike stopping power.

The motorcycle theme continues inside the SXForce, beginning with suede and leather seats and interior appointments, mimicking sportbike leathers. Other interior enhancements include motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, roof air intake for optimal breathing and a revised track-themed interior, featuring carbon fiber components and accents. Engine vitals are monitored via a Zeitronix ZT-2 wideband data logger. All vital engine parameters are logged on a laptop and viewed on the ZT-2 gauge mounted on the Hayabusa handlebars. The SXForce is equipped with an integrated Garmin navigation system, and its rear seats have been removed and replaced by a high-output Rockford-Fosgate audio system.

SX4 WRC

With its sports-minded heritage, coupled with a passion to excel in the world's most competitive venues, Suzuki Auto drives toward another motorsports challenge with its entry in the World Rally Championship (WRC).

Derived from the five-door SX4 Crossover, a prototype model of the SX4 WRC was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. Developed as a driver-friendly World Rally Car offering high controllability under a wide range of rally conditions, this creation by Suzuki Sport, Suzuki's motorsports division, has involved an extensive testing program on many different types of surfaces. As a supplement to the testing, Suzuki Sport chose two events in 2007, the Rallye de France and the Wales Rally GB, to closely represent the majority of surface types. The Rallye de France is known as one of the most challenging tarmac events, and the Wales Rally GB, held later in the year, is well regarded for similar reasons.

The SX4 WRC boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged J20 engine with full-time 4WD drivetrain and a five-speed sequential gearbox. The vehicle's 1,997 cc engine delivers 320 brake horsepower between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm, along with a maximum torque of 590 N-m (435 lb.-ft.) at 3,500 rpm.

The SX4 WRC's powertrain features a carbon three-disc clutch, electronically controlled center differential and mechanical front and rear differentials. Its well-balanced chassis and rigid structure allow the front and rear MacPherson struts with coil springs work to their full potential, and its Reiger shocks deliver dynamic, responsive handling. For tarmac, the vehicle is fitted with 20/65-18 tires fitted on 8X18-inch wheels. On gravel, 17/65-15 rubber is mounted to 7X15-inch wheels.

The SX4 WRC sits on a wheelbase of 2,500mm, stands 1,450mm high and weighs 1,230 kg (the minimum authorized). All specs reflect those of the final-phase development-test vehicle and are not necessarily indicative of the 2008 entry. As noted by Nobuhiro Tajima, vice president of Suzuki Sport, the endeavor is still in the early stages of development, including the engine, transmission and suspension.

The WRC effort builds on Suzuki's outstanding success in the JWRC, where the Swift Super 1600 has enjoyed an excellent record, creating even more excitement and anticipation in 2008.

Grand Vitara Dune

First introduced at the 2005 SEMA Show, the Grand Vitara Dune is designed for off-road enthusiasts who demand off-road capabilities. Well-equipped with 11.5 inches of minimum ground clearance and a towing capacity of 3,000 lbs., the Dune provides enough muscle to add a huge dose of exhilaration to any weekend. This Grand Vitara concept also features off-road skid plates, fender flares, wear-reducing cladding and running boards, all dressed in lightning yellow paint to match the color scheme of Suzuki ATVs. Roomy on the inside, the five-passenger Dune features a rear off-road gear storage and "mobile garage" work station, ideal for last-minute adjustments. The Dune also is equipped with a built-in GPS and navigation system.

SX4 Crossover Accessories

To complement Suzuki's versatile, stylish product line, the company offers an array of Genuine Suzuki Accessories - a line of style-enhancing trim packages and accessories designed to personalize Suzuki cars and SUVs sold in the United States. Suzuki showcases a number of pre-production performance-enhancing parts and interior and exterior accessories for the sporty SX4 Crossover.

Concept Accessories:

• Cat back Exhaust – Features stainless steel design, improves horsepower and offers deep performance tone that remains 50 state "sound level legal."

• Cold Air Intake – Intake system improves horsepower and offers performance pitch.

• Sport Suspension – Lowers ride height (approx. 1.5 inches) for a firmer ride.

• Alloy Wheels – Custom-designed 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, available in a chrome finish or machined surface with black paint. Includes chrome lug nuts and Suzuki center cap.

Genuine Suzuki Accessories:

• Rear Spoiler – Rally-inspired rear deck spoiler is molded in sturdy, lightweight polyurethane and is available color-matched to the SX4 Crossover.

• Hood Mask – Custom-fit hood mask made of durable vinyl and soft fleece backing helps protect the front of the SX4 Crossover from damage caused by minor road debris.

• Silver Finish Front Grille – Front grille replaces original black version and matches the lower bumper trim on the SX4 Crossover.

• Carbon Fiber Dash Trim (Red) – Dash trim accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different colors to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover. Trim fits both automatic and manual transmission models.

• Carbon Fiber Door Sill Trim (Red) – Door sill accents made of real carbon-fiber weave material with an exterior-grade urethane topcoat and screened SX4 logo are available in three different carbon-fiber weave colors or a brushed aluminum finish to coordinate or contrast with the interior of the SX4 Crossover.

• Billet Sport Pedals – Sport pedal set, including dead pedal, is made of lightweight aluminum and non-slip rubber inserts, offering a highly polished look with engraved Suzuki logo.

• Billet Battery Tie Down & Billet Oil Cap (Sold as a package) – Highly polished aluminum battery tie down and oil filler cap with engraved Suzuki logo to dress up your engine bay.

• Blueconnect®, Bluetooth Phone System – Speaker- and microphone-integrated communication system that offers wireless interaction with any bluetooth-compatible cell phone, allowing dialing and hands-free communication with the touch of a button. Installation required (for non-sunroof models only).

• Rear Bumper Protector – Adhesive-backed applique to help protect from minor nicks and scratches.

New Sloter Opel Manta 400

Photos today via Raid Slot World of the new Sloter Opel Manta 400, btw it's an anglewinder with an SCX Pro Speed motor.

SLOT MINIAUTO #38-December issue

SLOT MINIAUTO 38 – DICIEMBRE 2007

El VW Fun Cup Car de Revell es nuestro protagonista de la portada este mes de Diciembre. También destacamos la prueba en exclusiva del nuevo Peugeot 908 HDi FAD de Avant Slot. Este número incluye un bazar especial con ideas para los regalos de Navidad y gratis el Calendario Slot 2008 con espectaculares imágenes.
En el interior se puede encontrar además, la prueba del Ferrari 350P de Racer, Lotus 16 de Cartrix, VV Polo S1600 de Power Slot, un test del mando SCP01 de Slot.it
También se desvela en este número el nombre del PILOTO DEL AÑO escogido por los lectores.
Un reportaje del Foro Slot de Madrid y un extenso resumen del Campeonato de España de Slot junto a un avance de la Ninco World Cup en Stuttgart completan esta última edición del 2007 de Slot MiniAuto.




PRESS RELEASE

SLOT MINIAUTO 38 – DECEMBER 2007

The VW Fun Cup Car of Revell is our protagonist on this month of December cover. We also stress the exclusively test of the new Avant Slot’s Peugeot 908 HDi FAD. This issue includes a special bazaar with ideas for Christmas and a free 2008 Slot Calendar with spectacular images.
Inside, track test of the Ferrari 350P of Racer, Lotus 16 Cartrix, VV Polo S1600 Power Slot, and the SCP1 Slot.it electronic controller test can be found.
We also revealed in this issue de name of the PILOT OF THE YEAR chosen by the readers.
One feature of the Madrid Slot Forum and an extensive summary of the Slot Spanish Championship along with a last minute of the Ninco World Cup in Stuttgart, complete this Slot MiniAuto latest edition of 2007.

JLG Lift

Normally when I do a review it takes a minute to think of exactly how to word the opening paragraph but not this time. This is simple, you need this diecast. The JLG Model 3394RT Rough Terrain Scissor Lift, isn't something that you sort of need, it isn't something that might be worth the money...this is a MUST HAVE! This is a drop everything and break out the credit card moment if there was one.

For the last decade I have been a news photographer, I've covered most types of racing, at nearly every race I've been to there is a lift with a TV camera on top of it. This isn't something that's specific to one type of racing, one area of the country, or one track...this is just about the most commonly seen perch for a TV camera ever!

JLG has done an extraordinary job on this piece. Everyone that I've shown it to has tried to make off with it and take it for their own track or take home and play with. The paint on the scissor part of the body is perfect and the coating is thick and even. The tires on the corners are molded of nice soft material and they roll really well. The platform raises amazingly high, so much so you wonder whether the little 1/32 people are going to start screaming to let them down.

The rails on the platform are a bit thin and you do need to take care to slide the sides of the platform out. I don't think it would make a good toy for a child, but as a piece on a track it is simply the coolest model I have seen. The lift sells for $39.99 and I have to say it IS worth every penny.

Dave Kennedy
Publisher, Slot Car News