Proton Motorsports (R3) MEGASALE!

Proton Motorsports also widely known as R3 to the public is having its year end SALE. Lots of body parts and performance upgrades available attractive price. Some of the discounts are insane. You guys can check Proton Motorsports FB page for more details : 

http://www.facebook.com/ProtonMotorsportsR3?fref=ts.

Pagani Zonda Race Car Massive Crash

A Pagani Zonda GR racer was totaled the Most Circuit in the Czech Republic. Pictures and video showed what happened when the race car got bumped from behind and was pushed straight into a concrete wall. The final aftermath shows that the vehicle is almost certain a total loss.

The Zonda GR was modified from a Zonda S by Carsport Modena and debuted at 24 Hours of Le Mans 2003. It didn’t do well and was sold on. Two Zonda GR’s exist, another better known example now sits in a garage in the US. The Zonda GR features a 7.0 liter AMG V12. Aside from that facts are a little thin on the ground!

Understanding OCTANE and RON for your car.

To understand the function of octane, which is basically a measure of the chemical resistance of gasoline to auto ignition – the higher the number the less likely it is to explode under pressure – you first have to know the basics of how a gasoline internal-combustion engine functions.

The engines found in almost all vehicles today function on something known as a four-stroke cycle. Within each engine are pistons that move up and down inside cylinders. The pistons are attached to connecting rods, which spin on a crankshaft. What are the four strokes of this all-important process? Well, in order of operation they’re intake, compression, power and exhaust.



The cycle starts as a piston moves downward in a cylinder. This is called the intake stroke. As it drops, a precisely controlled mixture of air and fuel vapor is drawn into the cylinder through open intake valves. Next, the intake valves shut and the piston rises, beginning the compression stroke where the air-fuel mixture is squeezed. Just as the piston reaches the top of its travel the spark plug fires, which ignites the air and fuel resulting in a potent bang. The power stroke has begun. This pushes the piston down again and provides the driving force that keeps the engine running and the vehicle moving. No sooner does the piston reach the bottom of its travel than it’s time to go up again. This begins the exhaust stroke, where all of the hot, leftover gasses from the combustion process get pushed out of the now-open exhaust valves. Once the piston reaches the top the intake valves open and the whole process starts again.

Stephen Russ, Technical Leader with Ford Motor Company’s engine engineering department is a fuels expert. According to him, “octane is just a measure of the chemical resistance to auto ignition.” He also said “high-octane fuel is more resistant to auto ignition.”

So what does that have to do with anything? Well remember, during the compression stroke a piston is squeezing a combination of air and fuel. If this mixture gets put under too much pressure it will spontaneously ignite, which is a serious problem should it happen before the spark plug fires.

Auto-ignition, more commonly referred to as “spark knock,” can result in an audible pinging noise. This potentially destructive clatter sounds a bit like pennies rattling in an empty pop can.

According to Bill Studzinski, Fuels Technical Specialist at General Motors, auto ignition can lead to “pressure waves that run into each other that cause the ringing or the knocking that you hear.”

Beyond noise, spark knock can wreak havoc on internal engine components. Surprisingly it can melt holes in pistons and even bend connecting rods. Thankfully Russ said “it’s really, really rare nowadays” because of advanced engine-control computers.

“We have knock sensors on our vehicles,” Studzinski said. These are small electronic transducers attached to an engine’s block that listen for specific sound frequencies associated with spark knock. If it’s detected the powertrain control module can do a number of things to get combustion under control again. It can lower boost levels on forced-induction engines, pull spark timing or enrich the air-fuel mixture to prevent internal damage.

High compression ratios allow engines to create more power while burning less fuel.  A compression ratio is basically how tightly the air and fuel mixture inside a cylinder gets squeezed. Modern engines typically have ratios right around 10-to-1, but they can exceed 12-to-1 or more if they have direct fuel injection. Also, forced-induction engines will be a little bit lower.

Automakers have to walk a fine line though; they can’t go overboard. This is where octane fits into the equation. Engines with higher compression ratios – often found in performance cars – almost always need higher octane fuel because it is less likely to automatically ignite. Russ said higher octane gasoline “does enable us to put more spark advance in and get more efficiency.”

To recap, higher cylinder pressures require higher octane, which prevents engine-damaging auto-ignition. But mistakes can happen, what if you put the wrong grade of fuel in your vehicle?

“If you’ve got a premium-required car and you put in 87 octane and you start hearing audible knock, you need to baby that car until you can get that fuel changed” Studzinski said, adding “even if you don’t hear the audible knock the vehicle is reacting.” It’s reducing performance, lowering fuel economy and sending more heat into the exhaust catalyst, which reduces its durability.

So, how is an octane rating calculated? According to Studzinski, in the United States the average of two separate tests is used to determine the number you see on a gas pump.

You’ve probably noticed the formula (R+M)/2 before. A lot of times it’s printed right on fuel pumps. The “R” stands for “research octane” and the “M” for “motor octane.” Each of these is one of the tests just mentioned. The average is designed to give an acceptable rating for all drivers in all different conditions. The fuel needs of someone towing a trailer up a mountain pass in the desert are quite different from someone driving a small passenger car at sea level.

According to Studzinski the research-octane test favors larger, older vehicles – cars and trucks typically powered by big-bore, naturally aspirated engines.  It features higher in-cylinder temperatures than the motor-octane test, which is geared more toward small, efficient, turbocharged engines.

In America the average of two tests determines octane, but Studzinski said “we don’t have a harmonized global octane standard,” and “the rest of the world only uses research octane numbers.”

If you’ve ever been to Europe for instance you may have noticed something like “95 RON” on their fuel pumps. RON, of course, stands for “research octane number.”

Interestingly, Studzinski said Europe’s regular-grade gasoline, which is rated at 95 RON equates to about 90 in the (R+M)/2 test. That means European vehicles have to be recalibrated to run on America’s regular-grade fuel, which is only 87 octane.

One thing Studzinski asked was “is (R+M)/2 an appropriate rating for modern engines?” a question many fuels experts and oil refiners are no doubt asking themselves. For the average driver though, it’s best to follow what’s in their vehicle’s owner’s manual by running the recommended grade of gasoline for the best performance and highest efficiency

Source: AutoGuide.com

RX7 Touge Battle

One of the most tightest Touge Battle so far...loving it to the max..

Lotus to sue Ex-CEO

Lotus under its parent company Proton has fired the British sports car manufacturer’s CEO Dany Bahar after it was bought over by DRB-Hicom in June.

It was announced that the decision to fire Bahar and several other executives was based on the results of an investigation that looked into possible misconduct, though no official reason was ever given for their ousting.

Less than two months later Bahar retaliated with a $10 million wrongful dismissal suit that claimed the executives, including himself, were fired in order to avoid contractual payments in the event that Lotus was sold.

Now Lotus is suing Bahar for approximately $4 million for, according to court filings obtained by Bloomberg, unauthorized expenses and overpaid salary and bonuses. Some of the expenses are said to include a chauffeur, helicopter travel and 10 watches.

Specific complaints made in Lotus’ court filings was a $1.6 million expense for renting and renovating two private properties and another expense of almost $2 million for travel.

The filings also mention damaging statements made to the media, which is likely to be the bizarre Facebook rant made by Lotus in April of this year.

Since taking control of Lotus at the start of this year, DRB-Hicom has set about ousting Bahar and his overly ambitious plan for a six-model lineup, injecting some funds into the company, and reaffirming its commitment to future products, the first of which will be the new Esprit supercar.

Nine Motorists Killed in Tunnel Failure

A major road tunnel has collapsed in the Yamanashi prefecture Japan, trapping a huge number of vehicles and leaving at least seven people missing, media reports say. Survivors described how large sections of concrete ceiling fell on top and around their cars in the Sasago tunnel. A fire broke out and rescuers have found a number of charred bodies.

The incident started at 08:00 local time (23:00 GMT Saturday), about 80km (50 miles) west of Tokyo on a road that links it to the city of Nagoya. The tunnel is one of the longest in Japan.

Revelations that aging bolts and rods may have led to the devastating highway tunnel collapse that claimed at least nine lives in Japan over the weekend has sparked nationwide anxiety over the safety of decades-old infrastructure.

Yamanashi prefecture police said on Monday. The victims had been traveling in three separate cars through the 4.7-kilometer Sasago tunnel, located in a hilly region on a major highway linking the cities of Nagoya and Tokyo, when thick concrete slabs plunged onto the vehicles Sunday morning. Fires that charred two vehicles made it initially difficult for rescue workers to reach the victims trapped inside. About 270 concrete slabs, weighing over a ton each, collapsed onto the vehicles over a 110-meter stretch of road. Two people have been sent to the hospital for injuries, according to the police.

Central Nippon Expressway, the operator of the Chuo Expressway, said age could have played a role in the cave in. For example, the rods that were supposed to hold the concrete panels against the inner wall of the tunnel could had become loose over time or the deterioration of key metal fittings like the anchor bolt may have caused the pieces to fall out. The tunnel was first opened to traffic in 1977. A company spokesman said it is unknown whether the metal parts have been replaced since the tunnel was built.

Ford Escape 2013 Recalled

Ford Motor Co.’s latest model Ford Escape Crossover has been the subject of a series of recalls since it made its mid-year debut – and now faces another recall as the automaker warns versions of the popular CUV equipped with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine could get overheat and catch fire. The problem also impacts the 2013 Ford Fusion.  In all, about 89,000 of the two models – among Ford’s best-selling nameplates – are affected.

The latest recall could prove a setback not just for the 2013 Fusion and Escape models but for Ford itself. The maker has been hammered in recent months in a series of customer satisfaction, quality and reliability surveys. The 2013 Fusion was named Green Car of the Year just last week.




According to Ford, the problem involves vehicles that is equipped only with the 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, an optional power train designed to deliver both better mileage and improved performance.  Ford says the engine can overheat and leak coolant. That, in turn, could catch fire if it comes into contact with hot engine components such as the exhaust pipes.“We have identified an issue and are taking actions in the best interest of our customers,” said Steve Kenner, director of Ford’s automotive safety office. “It is important that affected customers not ignore this recall and contact their dealer as soon as possible. While we recognize the inconvenience recalls cause our customers, we are taking these actions on their behalf to help ensure their safety.” 

2014 Ford Fiesta...

The upcoming 2014 Ford Fiesta is said to be a a huge facelift just so it belongs in the Ford family. It is said that the small Ford car is going to get the MyFord infotainment system installed.

The Fiesta is going to get a 6.5inch coloured touch screen mounted in the center stack to incorporate MyFord Touch. Other advancements given to the infotainment system include simplified voice recognition, which requires the driver to say less words to activate different voice commands, and simplified navigation controls, making it easier to input destinations into the navigation system.

Vettel crowned F1 World Champion for third consecutive year

Red Bull Racing's Sebastian Vettel may have finished only sixth in a bizzare yet amazing Brazilian race on Sunday, as McLaren’s Jenson Button led the Ferraris of title rival Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa home, but it was enough to make him the first triple world champion since Michael Schumacher and also not to mention the youngest triple world champion.

Light drizzle made the start a bit difficult, but then Vettel was spun through 180 degrees in Turn Four as he was hit by Bruno Senna’s Williams, which then took out Sergio Perez’s Sauber.

McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton led Button in the early stages as Massa boiled through to snatch third place and then handed the place to Alonso on the fifth lap. But soon the conditions were bad enough for some to consider switching their slicks for Pirelli's intermediates.

Button began to press Hamilton, and as Alonso ran wide in Turn One, Nico Hulkenberg took third in his Force India. Button led the sixth lap by a hair from Hamilton, who quickly repassed, but by lap eight Button was back in control and on the tenth Hamilton pitted, together with Alonso and Vettel, for the intermediates.

As mayhem reigned in the pits, Button and Hulkenberg - both still on slicks - pulled out a 40s lead, and on the 18th lap the German moved ahead. But their advantage was negated by a safety-car intervention between laps 23 and 29 to clear away debris, handing their pursuers a lifeline.

On the restart on Lap 30 Hulkenberg pulled away, but Button had grained his front tyres and was repassed by Hamilton. The latter then set about reeling in Hulkenberg and snatched the lead on the 48th lap when the Force India twitched sideways. The conditions were beginning to worsen with more rain, however, and as the two leaders come across Raikkonen on the 54th lap, rejoining after a spin, and lapped runners Heikki Kovalainen and Timo Glock, Hulkenberg grabbed the opportunity to dive inside Hamilton as they crossed the line to start the 55th lap.

Unfortunately he then spun under braking for the Senna S, and hit Hamilton’s left-front wheel. The Briton’s last race for McLaren thus ended badly, and as Button resumed the lead Hulkenberg dropped back after being awarded a drive-through penalty for the incident.

There was more drama. Vettel pitted for medium tyres on the 52nd lap, then came back in on the 54th for intermediates, but the second time around the tyre warmer on the new right-front wheel proved reluctant to come off, costing him precious time.

So with 11 laps to go Button was 16s ahead of Massa, who had driven a heroic race in which he helped Alonso at every opportunity. He duly handed his second place to the Spaniard on the 62nd lap, as Vettel worked his way up to sixth behind team mate Webber, who’d lost time earlier with a half spin, and Hulkenberg.

When Vettel subsequently overtook Schumacher on the 64th lap, the points situation became 281 to 278. There was to be no miracle for Ferrari, after all. Vettel was the triple consecutive world champion.

But there was one more drama to be played out. It came when Paul di Resta crashed his Force India heavily in the final sector on the 69th lap, bringing the safety car out again. Di Resta was okay, and as the safety car pulled in again before the 71st lap was over, in accordance with the rules, the field crossed the line for the last time under the yellows.

Button was delighted with a book-end victory, while Alonso was philosophical in defeat and Massa emotional on his home ground in another race in which he could have outpaced his team leader.

F10 M5 GruppeM Carbon Fibre Air Intake

GruppeM Ram Air System epitomize the GruppeM philosophy of attention to detail. By replacing the factory air handling systems, increased airflow streams into the combustion chamber.

On the GruppeM intake for the BMW F10 M5, the factory ductwork and airboxes are replaced with heat-shielding carbon fiber with enhanced inlets to capture the maximum amount of air. Lower intake air temperatures carry higher concentrations of oxygen, allowing for more energetic explosions and producing more horsepower and torque. Of course, reliability is never sacrificed. High-efficiency, high-flow K&N air filter materials prevent contaminants from interfering with proper engine function. 

Studies in Japan showed that a previously installed and tested the F10 M5 GruppeM Ram Air System  had recorded peak gains of +15 HP and +30 lb-ft torque over the factory fitted air intake system.

Factory Air Intake and Filters

GruppeM Carbon Fiber and K&N Filters

Hamilton tops Sao Paolo Qualifying

It was neither Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull nor Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso that was into the top three qualifying positions for the title deciding Brazilian Grand Prix. Vettel qualified at a respectable 4th place while Alonso qualified at a lowly 8th position. Alonso would need some sort of miracle if he were to wrestle the F1 Champion Crown from Vettel.


The fastest during today’s wet session was McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton, who has shown an impressive return to form despite Vettel and Alonso undoubtedly trying their best. Hamilton’s fastest time was a blistering 1:12.458.

His team-mate Jenson Button wasn’t too far behind, having managed a fastest time of 1:12.513. Taking the third spot on the grid was Red Bull Racing’s other driver, Mark Webber, who managed a fastest time of 1:12.581.

Rounding out the top ten positions were Ferrari’s Felipe Massa at fifth, Williams’ Pastor Maldonado at sixth, Force India’s Nico Hulkenberg at seventh, Alonso at eight, Lotus’ Kimi Räikkönen at ninth and Mercedes-AMG’s Nico Rosberg at 10th.

The weather is supposed to deteriorate tomorrow, with a high chance of rain during the race, which could certainly change things up for drivers, especially for those not used to wet conditions.

Unfortunately for Alonso, nothing short of a miracle will see him crowned champion. Even if he wins the race, Vettel will need to come in at fifth or lower for the Ferrari driver to be champion. If he comes second, Vettel will need to come in at eighth or lower. And it gets worse after that.

Going into tomorrow’s race, Vettel has a total of 273 points versus Alonso’s 260. Räikkönen is a distant third with 206 points.

Red Bull Racing was awarded the title for the 2012 Constructors’ Championship at last week’s United States Grand Prix after amassing an unbeatable 440 points. The race for second is still alive, with Ferrari’s 367 points putting it just ahead of McLaren, which has 353 points.

We hope you enjoy the race, which is not only the last for the 2012 season, but perhaps also the last time Hamilton races for McLaren and most likely the last time we ever see the legendary Michael Schumacher in an F1 race.

Initial D Fifth Stage Trailer

The long awaited anime series that features the Hachiroku has been released. The long awaied Fifth stage of the ever popular anime series is now available on YouTube. Watch this trailer and get the feel for the new upcoming stage.

Audi R8 LMS Ultra Real Madrid Edition

To honor the special relationship between Real Madrid and Audi, the car brand presented a special version of their whooping 570hp R8 LMS Ultra racer sports car, carrying the name of the football club. During the presentation some of the Real football players were offered a co-pilot ride on the Jarama circuit, close to Madrid. Marc Gené and Miguel Molina were the guest pilots.
Next to the release of the special car and the rides, the players received their new own company car from Audi. Most of the players chose the Audi Q7 luxury SUV, while Cristiano Ronaldo opted for the R8 in road legal form. 

Insane 1000++ HP AUDI S3

One of the most insane Audi S3 there in. With 2.5 litre in line 5 cylinder engine, they managed to squeeze out almost 1000+ HP is an astonishing feat. 

BMW 5 series with minor facelift 2014

The BMW 5-Series Touring was photographed by a spy shot as it was going through its routine series of road test.
The lightly camouflaged prototype reveals some minor changes including new front and rear bumpers, restyled headlights and what seems to be an enlarged grille. The taillights could also have a new design, but we can't be sure quite yet.
Engine options could carryover, but speculation has suggested the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder could have an increased output of 316 bhp (235 kW).
The 2014 BMW 5-Series is expected to be launched next spring, so look for a possible unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show.

Proton Preve R3 makes MSS debut

Proton Preve R3 makes its debut at the Malaysian Super Series (MSS) on the 3rd of November 2012.
Proton Motorsports is considering a switch from the Satria Neo R3 model to the current Proton Preve R3. Proton Preve was only launched last year and was a breath of fresh air in Proton's production line.

Honda N-One, mini contender?

Honda has unveiled the latest addition to its Japan-only N Series of mini-vehicles, the N-One sporting an economy-minded 660-cc engine.

But the focus of the Japanese automaker’s N-One is a spacious cabin with seating for four  person (not necessarily adults) with a lightweight, yet rigid body. Those looking for some luxury can opt for the N-One Premium model which comes with a high-quality exterior and interior “beyond those of any models in the mini-vehicle category,” according to Honda.

Though actual performance figures weren’t revealed, the N-One comes with either a 660-cc DOHC naturally aspirated engine, or a 660-cc DOHC Turbo  powerplant. Both engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite not announcing horsepower and torque figures, Honda says that the N-One Turbo has comparable performance to a vehicle with a 1.3-liter in the class.

The N-One is available in front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations with pricing starting at around $14,300 (1,150,000 yen) based on today’s conversion rates, while a top-of-the-line four-wheel drive N-One starts at around $21,200 (1,707,750 yen)