2013 Euro-spec Nissan Leaf

February 27, 2013, 3:17 pm

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Of all the changes announced for the 2013 Nissan Leaf electric car, an increase in range from 109 to 124 miles (175 to 200 kilometres) is undoubtedly the most significant.

That improvement has been made possible by the use of a new integrated powertrain, a less energy-hungry heating and ventilation system and a more aerodynamic front grille. Whether it’ll be enough to lure people away from their petrol or diesel engines remains to be seen, though.

2013 European-specification Nissan Leaf. Scroll down for more images.

Of course, there are a few other factors that might mean buyers are reluctant to switch to electric, but at least Nissan is attempting to address them.

For example, the prospect of having to replace the lithium-ion battery pack is an unwelcome and expensive one, so that element of the warranty has been enhanced. As well as offering a safeguard against defective materials and workmanship for five years or 100,000 kilometres, coverage now extends to unexpected capacity losses thanks to a ‘State of Health’ clause.

And then there’s the battery recharge time, which usually takes eight hours. That might be acceptable for overnight, but it’s inconvenient for top-ups during the day. To get around the problem, an optional 6.6 kW onboard charger that does the job in a relatively quick four hours is being offered for the first time.

As a means of transport, the new Leaf is a more practical proposition, too. Shifting the charger from the rear to under the bonnet has created an extra 40 litres of luggage space, while redesigned seats mean more rear legroom.

The introduction of the 2013 model coincides with the start of Leaf production at Nissan’s Sunderland factory. The UK plant will supply all European markets, thereby ending imports from Japan.

It’s a move that has given Nissan engineers an opportunity to tweak the Leaf’s dynamics to better suit European tastes. Retuned dampers, extra weight in the steering and more progressive brakes should all combine to give a more satisfying driving experience.

Available with a choice of Visia, Acenta or Tekna trim grades, the updated Leaf is due to reach European showrooms this summer.

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2013 SRT Viper Track Pack

February 28, 2013, 10:37 am

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As the name implies, SRT is targeting track day enthusiasts with its new Track Pack for the 2013 Viper.

But rather than providing more horsepower, the $3,500 option focuses on improving braking performance and reducing the car’s unsprung weight.

Included in the package are lightweight brake discs that feature curved vanes for enhanced cooling, multi-spoke ‘Sidewinder II’ wheels and Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Combined, those components can cut the Viper’s mass by up to 28 kg (62 lbs).

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2013 GranTurismo MC Stradale

February 28, 2013, 11:49 am

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A couple of years after it was first launched, Maserati has updated the performance-orientated GranTurismo MC Stradale.

Compared to the original version, the most obvious difference is the appearance of a pair of rear seats. Clearly a sign that Maserati’s clientele is prepared to put up with a little extra weight in order to accommodate four people, then.

But that’s not the only change. Also fitted to the 2013 model are redesigned 20” forged alloy wheels, Brembo carbon-ceramic brake discs and a new carbon fibre bonnet.

Power comes from a 4.7 litre, normally-aspirated V8 engine that now develops 453 bhp (338 kW / 460 PS) with 520 Nm (383 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Given those outputs, performance is predictably brisk. The zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes just 4.5 seconds, while the top speed is 188 mph (303 km/h).

The 2013 Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale makes its public debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. Pricing has yet to be announced.

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Toyota FT-86 Open concept

March 1, 2013, 4:49 am

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Following various rumours and spy shots, Toyota has officially revealed a convertible version of its GT86 coupé. Called the FT-86 Open, for now at least it’s just a concept.

Everything is pretty much identical to the GT86, apart from the multi-layered fabric roof that incorporates a glass rear screen. Even the 2+2 seating arrangement is retained, although it looks like luggage capacity might suffer a bit when the hood’s retracted.

A production version is very easy to envisage, but Toyota has admitted that further work needs to be done on the bodyshell. While maximising rigidity remains a key focus, the firm’s engineers are also keen to replicate the weight and balance of the GT86 as closely as possible.

The FT-86 Open makes its public debut at this month’s Geneva Motor Show, wearing a special white and navy blue colour scheme created by Toyota Boshoku Milan Design.

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2013 Triumph Bonneville SE

March 1, 2013, 2:26 pm

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Triumph has launched a Special Edition version of its retro Bonneville.

Mechanically everything is unchanged, but the new arrival does sport a very striking colour scheme. Combining a red frame with a Cranberry Red and Matt Black paintjob, it’s a look that works well.

Also part of the package are black rear-view mirrors, headlight and front indicator mounts borrowed from the Thruxton, a unique seat design and a black pillion grab rail.

UK sales of the Bonneville SE begin this month. The price tag is £6,599, which is just £200 more than the regular model.

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Countryman Dakar Winner

March 2, 2013, 2:12 pm

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Apart from a couple of second places, the Mini Countryman hasn’t had much success in the World Rally Championship so far. However, the opposite is true for the Dakar Rally, as the French crew of Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret has recently won the gruelling event for a second year in succession with their Mini All4 Racing.

To celebrate that feat, a very limited edition road-going model has been created. Just eleven examples of the lengthily-named Mini John Cooper Works Countryman All4 Dakar Winner 2013 are going to be produced, and they’ll only be available in France.

The road-going Mini John Cooper Works

Countryman All4 Dakar Winner 2013...

...and the Dakar-winning Mini All4 Racing.

Distinguishing it from the regular John Cooper Works Countryman is a matt black paintjob with contrasting bright green graphics. The theme continues on the inside, where various green details abound including embroidered winner’s logos on the headrests.

Completing the package are unique side indicator surrounds, 19” ‘Crusher’ cross-spoke alloy wheels, extra spotlights, black leather upholstery and a dashboard serial number badge.

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2013 Triumph Speed Triple SE

March 2, 2013, 3:20 pm

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Triumph’s new Speed Triple Special Edition features a unique colour scheme and plenty of cosmetic accessories.

The most striking aspect is undoubtedly the blue frame, which is complemented by blue wheel pinstripes and a choice of crystal white or matt graphite paintwork. To add some contrast, a black finish has been used for the handlebars, yokes, silencer heat shields and mirrors.

Included as standard on the SE are a belly pan, fly screen and seat cowl, while the inner radiator panels, side pods, tank cover panel and front mudguard are all made from carbon fibre. Finishing touches are provided by a clear rear light, a rubber tank pad and restyled clutch, sprocket and alternator covers.

With a UK price of £9,999, the 2013 Speed Triple Special Edition costs £1,000 more than the standard version. Sales begin this month.

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Fortwo BoConcept signature style

March 3, 2013, 6:55 am

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Smart has teamed up with Danish interior design retailers BoConcept to create a special edition cabriolet and a range of furniture and home accessories.

Based on the existing 101 bhp (75 kW / 102 PS) Brabus model, the car is called the fortwo BoConcept signature style.

On the outside, it features a brown soft-top roof, matt white body panels and a matt brown metallic finish for the tridion cell, door mirror caps and alloy wheels. The result is an unusual colour scheme that looks much better than it sounds.

Given BoConcept’s business, it comes as no surprise to find that the cabin has received a makeover too. Tobacco brown leather and grey felt cover the seats and door trims, while contrast is provided by the lemon yellow hue used for the stitching and dash-top instrument pods. Completing the effect are unique floor mats and a gear knob that’s made from real oak.

The other part of the collaboration is the smartville collection, which will be available from BoConcept shops globally from the 5th of March. Using colours and materials inspired by the limited edition fortwo, the range of furniture and accessories has been designed to be both functional and space-efficient.

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2013 Euro COTY winner

March 4, 2013, 9:29 am

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The seventh-generation Golf has been named the 2013 European Car of the Year.

In the end it was an emphatic victory, but somewhat inevitable too. The jury, made up of motoring journalists from around Europe, awarded the Volkswagen 29 percent of the available points.

The 2013 Volkswagen Golf.

The Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 joint entry took the runner-up slot, a well-deserved result. It was by far the most interesting member of an otherwise fairly dull shortlist.

2013 European Car of the Year - Results
Position	Model	Points
1	Volkswagen Golf	414
2	Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86	202
3	Volvo V40	189
4	Ford B-Max	148
5	Mercedes-Benz A-Class	138
6	Renault Clio	128
7	Peugeot 208	120
8	Hyundai i30	111

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2014 Corvette Stingray convertible

March 5, 2013, 11:02 am

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The highlight of Chevrolet’s stand at the Geneva Motor Show is the striking new Corvette Stingray convertible.

Developed alongside the recently-unveiled coupé, it shares its basic aluminium structure and 6.2 litre (376 cu. in.) V8 engine with the hardtop model. Interestingly, Chevrolet is saying that the convertible hasn’t needed any additional structural reinforcement, so the power-to-weight ratio is virtually unchanged.

The three-layer fabric roof is fully electric, and it can be operated at speeds of up to 30 mph (50 km/h). Alternatively, poseurs will appreciate the ability to retract it remotely using the key fob.

Sales of the 2014 Corvette Stingray are due to begin late this year. As well as North America, Chevrolet has confirmed that both the coupé and cabriolet will be available in Europe (including the UK), Japan, Russia and the Middle East. However, there are no plans to produce a right-hand drive version.

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Images © General Motors.

2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith unveiled

March 5, 2013, 3:30 pm

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It’s unlikely that the new Rolls-Royce Wraith is going to be mistaken for anything else on the road.

Just launched at the Geneva Motor Show, its dramatic fastback bodywork, low roof height and deeply-recessed grille characterise the brand’s most daring design since BMW took control.

2014 Rolls-Royce Wraith. Scroll down for more images.

In profile the styling works well and the back end looks fine, but the rear three-quarter view is arguably less successful. And that’s with a two-tone paint finish, which undoubtedly helps to break up the visual mass of those thick rear pillars. Interestingly, reports suggest that Rolls-Royce is encouraging prospective Wraith owners to not specify their cars with just a single colour.

No less striking is the cabin. Created to transport four people in extreme comfort, it features leather upholstery and swathes of wooden ‘Canadel Panelling’ throughout.

The Wraith is the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever built. With 624 bhp (465 kW / 632 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb/ft) of torque available from its V12 engine, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) benchmark sprint is completed in an astonishingly quick 4.6 seconds.

That doesn’t make it a sports car though. Indeed, despite having more steering feel and less body roll than the Ghost saloon, Rolls-Royce is still keen to describe the Wraith as a luxurious and refined grand tourer.

Wraith customer deliveries are due to commence in the fourth quarter of 2013. In Europe it’s expected to be priced at around €245,000, which equates to £211,000 or US$320,000 at today’s exchange rates.

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£1,570 Yamaha Neo’s Easy

March 6, 2013, 5:28 am

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Yamaha is attempting to broaden its appeal to UK buyers by launching a new entry-level scooter called the Neo’s Easy. It’s essentially a more basic version of the 50 cc two-stroke Neo’s, a model that’s not currently offered in this country.

While a price tag of just £1,570 (including first registration fee and vehicle tax) might appear attractive, don’t expect any luxuries. The brakes are drums, not discs; the wheels are steel, not alloy; it only has a kick-starter and the one colour available is black.

Nevertheless, running a Neo’s Easy could work out cheaper than taking the bus. But is the Yamaha good value compared to other scooters?

Well, the answer to that is not really.

For those on a tight budget, there are several less expensive alternatives. The two-stroke Piaggio Zip 50 and the four-stroke Kymco Agility 50 cost £1,370 and £1,170 respectively, for example. What’s more, they both feature a front disc brake and an electric starter.

And then there are more sophisticated (and slightly dearer) options such as the Honda Vision 50, which is £1,650 on the road. The extra outlay would seem to be worthwhile though, as its standard specification includes a fuel-injected four-stroke engine, an electric starter, cast alloy wheels and a choice of five colours.

If anyone’s still interested, UK sales of the Yamaha Neo’s Easy are due to begin next month.

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Honda Civic Tourer Concept

March 6, 2013, 11:02 am

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The new Honda Civic Tourer looks set to shake up the compact estate car market when sales begin early next year.

Unveiled in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show, its dramatic styling makes rivals such as the Ford Focus estate, Peugeot 308 SW and latest Volkswagen Golf estate seem dull by comparison.

Honda hasn’t confirmed any specifications, but it has announced that the Civic Tourer will be assembled alongside the hatchback model in Swindon.

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2013 Porsche 911 GT3

March 6, 2013, 2:59 pm

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Porsche has unveiled the new fifth-generation 911 GT3 at the Geneva Motor Show. This latest incarnation, which is based on the 991-series coupé, promises more power and performance than its predecessor.

As before, the rear-wheel drive GT3 features a normally-aspirated 3.8 litre boxer engine, but now the output has been increased to 468 bhp (350 kW / 475 PS) with 440 Nm (325 lb/ft) of torque. Fans of manual gearboxes are going to be disappointed though, because the only transmission available is an updated version of Porsche’s sequential seven-speed dual-clutch item.

Nevertheless, the drivetrain delivers impressive performance. Acceleration from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes just 3.5 seconds, while the GT3’s top speed is 196 mph (315 km/h).

To help make the most of that pace, the rear axle is wider compared to regular 911 variants and, for the first time, it incorporates active rear-wheel steering. The system is designed to turn the rear wheels in either the same or the opposite direction as the front wheels, depending on how quickly the car is travelling.

Also part of the specification are dynamic engine mounts that stiffen under hard driving conditions, as well as an all-aluminium suspension set up that’s adjustable for toe angle, camber and ride height. Downforce meanwhile is provided by a front spoiler and a large fixed rear wing.

For the German market, the 2013 Porsche 911 GT3 will cost €137,303 (including VAT) and deliveries are due to begin this August.

The UK price has been set at £100,540, but the first right-hand drive cars won’t be available until November.

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Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition

March 7, 2013, 12:32 pm

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The success of Alfa Romeo’s impending return to North America is going to be critical for the brand’s future.

One of the vehicles that’ll be at the forefront of that mission is the new 4C two-seat sports car, so it makes perfect sense that half of the 1,000 special Launch Edition models being built are destined for the United States and Canada. Europe meanwhile will be getting 400 examples, with the remainder allocated to other territories.

Just unveiled in production form at the Geneva Motor Show, the 4C features a 236 bhp (176 kW / 240 PS) four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which comes connected to the TCT twin-clutch automatic transmission.

Thanks to composite bodywork and an aluminium and carbon fibre chassis, the 4C’s dry weight is only 895 kg (1,973 lbs). Consequently, acceleration from standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes just 4.5 seconds. A top speed figure hasn’t been quoted yet, but Alfa Romeo says it’ll be in excess of 155 mph (250 km/h).

The Launch Editions are distinguished by their part-leather upholstery, extra carbon fibre trim and either Carrara White or Alfa Red paintwork.

Also included in the specification are Bi-LED headlights, a racing exhaust system, a recalibrated suspension set-up, an aluminium rear diffuser and a burnished finish for the alloy wheels. Customers get the opportunity to attend a driving event in Italy too.

The package won’t be cheap though. In most Eurozone markets the price is €60,000 including VAT, while UK buyers will have to part with £52,000.

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2013 Audi RS 5 DTM unveiled

March 7, 2013, 3:02 pm

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Audi Motorsport has revealed its contender for the 2013 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM).

Because this season’s technical regulations are unchanged, the car is pretty much identical to last year’s and alterations have been limited to a series of minor tweaks. But that hasn’t stopped the marketing people from coming up with a new name. Instead of A5 DTM, it’s now known as the RS 5 DTM.

As in 2012, Audi’s DTM squad will comprise eight cars run by four teams. The driver line-up has been confirmed as:

Audi Sport Abt Sportsline
· Mattias Ekström
· Jamie Green

Audi Sport Team Abt
· Timo Scheider
· Adrien Tambay

Audi Sport Team Phoenix
· Miguel Molina
· Mike Rockenfeller

Audi Sport Team Rosberg
· Filipe Albuquerque
· Edoardo Mortara

The Audi RS 5 DTM is going to make its race debut at the first round of the 2013 DTM, which takes place at the Hockenheimring, Germany on the 5th of May.

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2013 World Car Awards top finalists

March 8, 2013, 8:52 am

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Following a second round of voting by a jury of sixty-six motoring journalists, the top contenders for the 2013 World Car Awards have been announced.

World Car of the Year

Usually at this stage of the competition it’s the top three finalists that are named. However, this year the ballot must have been very close because four models have been listed:

• Mercedes-Benz A-Class
• Porsche Boxster / Cayman
• Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 / Toyota 86
• Volkswagen Golf

Given that it has just been declared the 2013 European Car of the Year, the Golf is certainly a strong runner in this category. A win would see Volkswagen taking the title for a second year in succession, after 2012’s success with its Up! city car.

2013 Volkswagen Golf

World Performance Car

As can be seen, there’s a lot of overlap between the World Car of the Year and World Performance Car nominees:

• Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
• Porsche Boxster / Cayman
• Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 / Toyota 86

All three finalists appeal to very different market segments, which makes the result very tricky to predict. The Scion / Subaru / Toyota triplets should get the award though, as they combine rear-wheel drive, light weight and accessible power in a fresh package.

2013 Scion FR-S

World Green Car

Similarly, the World Green Car candidates represent a broad spectrum of technologies:

• Renault Zoe
• Tesla Model S
• Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid Diesel

Of the three, the Volvo most deserves recognition because of its efficient diesel-hybrid powertrain and decent electric-only range.

2012 Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid Diesel

World Car Design of the Year

This category features the only two British models to make it this far in the contest:

• Aston Martin Vanquish
• Jaguar F-Type
• Mazda 6

While the Vanquish is undoubtedly a striking car, it still looks very similar to any other Aston Martin coupé of recent years. Conversely, the F-Type’s design is much more original, so it ought to be the victor.

2013 Jaguar F-Type

The winners of each award will be revealed at the New York International Auto Show on the 28th of March.

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Duster Adventure limited edition

March 8, 2013, 11:16 am

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It looks like Dacia is attempting to appeal to more aspirational SUV buyers with its new Duster Adventure limited edition. Based on the existing Ambiance trim grade, it combines distinctive looks with some useful additional features.

On the outside, the specification includes a pair of roof-mounted spotlights, front and rear bash plates, privacy glass and a unique front grille. The effect is finished off by a choice of Pearl Black or Glacier White paintwork, some very large graphics and a set of motorsport-inspired red arrows that indicate the towing and jacking points.

They may not be the last word in luxury, but the Adventure’s rubber floor mats are at least practical for those who fancy a spot of adventuring. Also fitted is a semi-integrated Garmin satellite navigation system that can display topographic mapping for when the road runs out. The seats meanwhile come upholstered in black cloth with white stitching and prominent compass motifs on the backrests.

Powered by a 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) 1.5 litre diesel engine, the Dacia Duster Adventure will be available with either front- or all-wheel drive.

Sales are due to begin next month, but it’s unlikely that this particular special edition is going to be offered in the UK.

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2013 Harley-Davidson Breakout

March 9, 2013, 12:25 pm

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Following its first appearance last summer in special CVO guise, Harley-Davidson has now launched a regular version of the Breakout.

The bike’s stripped-back look is inspired by the ‘Gasser’ drag bikes of the 1950s and 1960s. Long and low, it’s characterised by large wheels with alternating spoke finishes, plenty of chrome and a chopped rear fender.

Powering the Breakout is the 1,690 cc Twin Cam 103 V-twin engine that comes connected to a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission. That’s a major change compared to the CVO model, which uses a 110 cubic inch (1,803 cc) Screamin’ Eagle V-twin motor.

The ordinary Breakout is significantly cheaper than its CVO stablemate, though. With anti-lock brakes fitted as standard, the UK price is £15,645 if Vivid Black paintwork is chosen. Go for the Big Blue Pearl or Ember Red Sunglo alternatives instead and the bill rises to £15,945.

In the United States, those amounts are $17,899 and $18,299 respectively. However, ABS is only offered as part of the optional Security Package, which costs an extra $1,195.

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2014 Formula E draft calendar

March 10, 2013, 12:23 pm

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Next year’s inaugural FIA Formula E Championship for electric-powered single-seat race cars looks set to include at least eight rounds.

The preliminary venues are:

• London (UK)
• Rome (Italy)
• Los Angeles (USA)
• Miami (USA)
• Beijing (China)
• Putrajaya (Malaysia)
• Buenos Aires (Argentina)
• Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

Unusually, all of the events are going to take place on temporary city or urban circuits. Run over a single day, the schedule will consist of a practice session, qualifying and then a 45-minute race.

The spectacle won’t involve eight-hour pit stops for recharging, nor will mechanics have to struggle to change depleted battery packs. Instead, drivers will simply swap cars during two mandatory stops.

With ten two-driver teams expected to participate, Formula E is shaping up to be an entertaining (and quiet) series.

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