Lexus Canada press release

TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 19, 2011 – The interior of this Lexus design concept hints at the new contemporary, upscale and uniquely Lexus design direction. Created by Calty, the company’s design studio in Newport Beach, Calif., the concept vehicle will debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit at 1:25 pm Eastern time on January 9, 2012.

GM Canada press release

The all-new 2012 Chevrolet Orlando, like other Chevrolet models recently launched in various market segments, doesn’t follow convention. Orlando’s design – part MPV, part crossover – breaks the rules of a historically conservative segment; it makes a statement and stands out from the crowd. Pricing on the 2012 Chevrolet Orlando begins at an MSRP of $19,995 for the LS model, $22,295 for the LT and $29,735 for the well equipped LTZ model.

Orlando demonstrates how innovative design can transform the once ordinary confines of the family vehicle to create a totally different experience for driver and passengers alike. That is made clear by a quick look at some of the vital statistics, starting with overall length. Orlando is remarkably compact for a vehicle that can transport up to seven people in comfort and it continues the transformation underway at Chevrolet, reaffirming the commitment to building refined, fuel-efficient vehicles using small-displacement, four-cylinder engines. It is expected to deliver the best fuel efficiency of any non-hybrid 7 passenger vehicle – including 10.1 L/100km in the city and 6.7 L/100km on the highway.

“The new Orlando builds on the transformation of Chevrolet’s fuel efficient and versatile product portfolio, offering a family-friendly vehicle in a key segment in the Canadian market,” said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of General Motors of Canada. “With its expected segment-leading fuel efficiency and standard 7-passenger seating, Orlando should be a popular choice with Canadian families.”

Chevrolet’s new compact MPV brings flare to the segment by adopting a bolder look with its low roofline and crossover inspired silhouette, while retaining the distinctive and recognizable Chevrolet front grille depicted by the split radiator grille and bow-tie badge.

Based on the show car concept first seen in 2008, the Chevrolet Orlando is nevertheless a true family car for the times, combining 7-seater practicality, interior flexibility and generous load space.

Orlando offers a refreshing alternative to many of the family vans and crossovers currently on the market. The distinctly recognizable Chevrolet front grille is complemented by a profile characterized by the low swept roofline and the muscular, protruding wheel-arches, housing 16 or 18 inch wheels. The wheel arches enhance a ‘body in, wheel out’ appearance while at the same time ensuring Orlando keeps its agile, sporting stance.

Interior versatility

While the exterior of the new Chevrolet Orlando is sure to attract plenty of attention, the interior also features many of the latest design cues from Chevrolet such as the Corvette-inspired dual cockpit and ambient blue backlighting to the centre console. The interior has three rows of “theatre style” seating and, despite the sweeping roof-line, designers have succeeded in raising the second and third rows to allow the Orlando’s occupants to get an even better view both forwards and to the side without compromising headroom. In fact, headroom in the third row of seats in the Orlando is superior to a number of competitor MPVs.

Numerous seating configurations are possible with either second or third rows folded independently or together to make a completely flat load area. The second row also has a tumble-fold feature for both the left and right-hand outer seats to allow easy access for passengers into and out of the third row. When the time comes to hauling large loads of cargo, Orlando’s cargo area is one of the most voluminous in the segment with 1,594 litres available when both rows of seats are folded behind the first row.

Any hard-working family car needs plenty of storage space for all the bits and pieces that collect inside. Like the original concept car, the final production version of the Orlando obliges with a range of compartments of different shapes and sizes and different locations, including two large cup holders in the center console, map and bottle holders integrated into the front and rear doors and a number of individual compartments in the cargo area. However, perhaps the most ingenious is a storage area hidden behind the front fascia of the audio system, within easy reach of the both the driver and passenger. Seen originally on the Orlando concept car, designers have been able to integrate a usefully large area which is revealed by flipping up the face of the audio system, large enough for such items as an MP3 player, sunglasses and wallets. Within the space itself, there is a standard auxiliary jack and optional USB port for MP3 or iPod connectivity, depending on the trim level.

Efficient Ecotec Engine and Six-Speed Transmissions

Just as Orlando is amazingly space efficient, its award-winning 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine is also impressively fuel efficient – in fact, it has an expected best fuel efficiency of any non-hybrid seven-seater on the market. A pair of six-speed transmissions – a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic – match the standard 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine rated at 174 horsepower. The six-speed manual transmission delivers 6.7 L/100 km on the highway and 10.1 L/100 km in the city while the 6-speed automatic delivers 6.9 L/100 km on the highway and 10.6 L/100 km in the city.

Shifts within the automatic transmission are accomplished by applying and disengaging clutches simultaneously, which provides a more direct feel for the driver, compared to “freewheeling” gear change mechanisms. On the road, a wide selection of shift patterns is adapted to the styles and habits of the driver, anticipating when maximum acceleration or maximum efficiency is required. The electronic control also adapts to the prevailing road conditions, reducing gear shifting when climbing or descending and using engine braking assistance during down changes.

The six-speed automatic also features ActiveSelect manual control, which allows sequential driver gear selection via the shift lever. The transmission also has neutral gear disengagement at idle, which reduces vibration and improves fuel efficiency.

Ride and Handling

Based off Chevrolet’s successful and award winning Cruze sedan, already proven to offer excellent ride and handling, Orlando drivers are assured of a safe, yet involving and rewarding drive. The Orlando’s well proven set up utilizes McPherson struts for the front suspension and compound crank axle for the rear.

Emulating the successful Chevrolet Cruze, the Orlando’s chassis has been tuned to provide the ideal compromise between ride comfort and agility. McPherson struts used for the front suspension use hydraulic bushings which are often found in more expensive vehicles, and provide increased ride isolation for passengers and controlled absorption of variable road surfaces.

The advanced compound crank (torsion beam) system at the rear is used as it offers the perfect compromise between suspension control combined with savings in weight and space. A torsion beam system can also be easily tuned to accommodate the different vehicle and engine weights.

Safety and Security

Orlando’s chassis and body structure have also been engineered with high reserves of safety as a key consideration. Sixteen-inch ventilated front disc brakes are fitted across the range, with sixteen-inch solid discs at the rear and with electronic ABS acting on all wheels. All chassis also benefit from electronic brake force distribution, a system which governs the amount of braking at each wheel to ensure the shortest stopping distances, traction control for when road conditions are wet or slippery, electronic stability control and hydraulic brake assist.

Safety for the vehicle’s occupants is always of paramount consideration in this vehicle segment, and the Orlando provides a comprehensive list of safety and security features, including: Panic brake assist and cornering brake control, StabiliTrak, traction control, six standard airbags, head restraints for all seating positions, pedal release system, power rear child security door locks, child-view mirror, standard OnStar with six months of Directions and Connections service, and Euro NCAP 5 star rating (one of the top scoring cars in Europe for 2011).

Most of Orlando’s body structure is constructed of high strength steel to form an effective passenger safety cage providing protection in the event of a collision to the front, rear and side of the car. Should a collision occur, Orlando’s occupants will be protected by six airbags – twin front, side and curtain.

One of the biggest challenges often faced by emergency services when assisting at the scene of an incident is helping the occupants of vehicles when the doors are locked. However, this is not a scenario that Orlando owners will be faced with; Orlando is fitted with crash sensor technology, where the doors unlock automatically on detection of an impact.

Finally, like most Chevrolet vehicles, Orlando is available with OnStar that includes Automatic Crash Response and its latest enhancement, Injury Severity Prediction. This feature helps OnStar advisors alert first responders when a vehicle crash is likely to have caused serious injury to the occupants. With Automatic Crash Response, OnStar uses data from a collection of built-in vehicle sensors that can signal an advisor for help if the vehicle is involved in a moderate to severe frontal, rear or side-impact crash, regardless of whether an air bag deploys.

The Chevrolet Orlando is produced at General Motor’s South Korea manufacturing facilities and arrives in Chevrolet dealers across Canada in October 2011.

Toyota Canada press release

First North American-produced Toyota Electric Vehicle to utilize existing RAV4 plant.
Tesla to Ship Powertrains from California

Woodstock, Ontario (August 5, 2011)—Toyota and Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) confirmed today that their jointly-developed RAV4 electric vehicle will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. (TMMC) in Woodstock, Ontario beginning in 2012.

TMMC President, Brian Krinock, said “TMMC is going to be the first in North America to build a Toyota electric vehicle. Our team members are fully committed to building the finest, highest quality electric vehicle on the road.”

Building the vehicle at the Woodstock plant on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4, will streamline and simplify the production process and guarantee the highest level of quality control.

TMMC Chairman, Ray Tanguay stated, “We’re turning a new chapter in our history and into the future. TMMC will lead the way by building the new RAV4 EV. Being involved with leading edge technology is a great opportunity to motivate and develop our people.” He added, “This is an excellent example of Toyota’s determination to collaborate with companies with innovative technology.”

As previously announced, Toyota will pay Tesla approximately $100 million to supply the electric powertrain, which includes the battery, motor, gear box and power electronics for the RAV4 EV. Tesla will build the electric powertrains at its production facility in Palo Alto, California and then ship them to TMMC for final assembly into the vehicle.

Canada’s Minister of Industry, the Honourable Christian Paradis, said: “Our government’s long-term goal remains to provide the right conditions for a sustainable and viable North American auto sector. The Government of Canada is pleased to support the development and implementation of this innovative, fuel-efficient technology in Canada.”

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty added, “We worked hard to become North America’s number one producer of cars. To stay on top, we need to produce the next generation of cars that use clean technology. Today’s announcement is a tremendous vote of confidence for Ontario’s skilled workers.”

The RAV4 EV will be sold in the U.S. through Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS). Details including pricing, volume and regional distribution will be determined and announced at a later time. A decision about sales in Canada has not yet been made.

In July of last year, Tesla and Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) collaborated to convert 32 conventional gas-engine RAV4 compact SUVs into fully functional RAV4 EV prototypes.

Toyota is committed to a broad strategy of sustainable mobility, incorporating products, partnerships, the urban environment, and energy.

A Camaro on the line in Oshawa plant

GM Canada press release

Oshawa, Ontario (August 4, 2011) — General Motors will invest $117 million to prepare the Oshawa Assembly Plant to build the all-new Cadillac XTS, creating or retaining 400 jobs on the Flex Line.

“This investment further extends the capabilities of the award-winning Oshawa Assembly Plant and pays compliment to the achievements of its dedicated workforce, one that consistently strives for excellence,” said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of General Motors of Canada. “Adding the Cadillac XTS affirms GM’s commitment to a strong manufacturing base in Canada, ensuring Oshawa will have a critical role in the ongoing transformation of Cadillac.

The Oshawa Assembly Plant has undergone major changes in the last year having added the Chevrolet Equinox, the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible and the Buick Regal. These expansions resulted in the addition of two new shifts and 1,300 employees. The Oshawa Assembly Plant also builds the Chevrolet Camaro and Chevrolet Impala, and employs over 4,500 people combined.

“Having added three new products, two new shifts, and hundreds of new employees this past year, Oshawa has undergone tremendous changes,” added Dan Hermer, plant manager at the Oshawa Assembly Plant. “Our employees have successfully turned each one of these challenges into successes, and this investment demonstrates GM’s continued vote of confidence in our facility, employees and our ability to execute outstanding product launches.”

The Cadillac XTS is being designed to compete and win against the finest luxury cars. It takes a new, modern approach to the large luxury sedan, combining high-tech electronics and engaging driving dynamics in a car that is also elegant and spacious.

First shown as the Cadillac XTS Platinum concept car last year, the final production model Cadillac XTS will be revealed in the coming months. Production is planned to start in the first half of 2012.

Manufacturer press release

Unprecedented coast-to-coast training and consumer events for all-new Range Rover Evoque creating buzz across Canada

MISSISSAUGA, ON, July 29, 2011 /CNW/ – Every Land Rover dealership across Canada will be involved in bringing the excitement of the all-new Range Rover Evoque to Canadian consumers. In addition to in-dealer training for dealerships, Land Rover locations will host consumer events from Victoria to St. John’s starting the end of July and winding up the end of September 2011.

“Never before have our dealers shown such enthusiasm for the arrival of a new vehicle,” said Lindsay Duffield, president of Jaguar Land Rover Canada. “Every dealer across Canada wanted to be involved in the training and launch events, and already we have seen that consumers are equally excited.”

As the lightest and most fuel efficient Range Rover ever, the Range Rover Evoque sends a powerful message that the company is serious about sustainability and is determined to deliver vehicles that are both relevant and highly desirable. The Range Rover Evoque provides style, functionality and performance in an environmentally friendly package.

Photo by Gary Grant at 2011 Chicago Auto Show.

“This is a contemporary vehicle that will suit the needs of modern Canadians, whether on the way to the soccer pitch, the ski slopes or theatre,” said Duffield. “With both coupe and five-door versions, it offers customers even more choice, greater versatility and flexibility. The Range Rover Evoque will attract Canadian consumers from coast-to-coast whom never would have considered a SUV or a Land Rover product.”

On the open road, the Range Rover Evoque offers a polished driving experience that combines dynamic and sporty handling with responsive, effortless performance and refinement.

The available Adaptive Dynamics system with advanced MagneRide™ dampers provides an exceptional balance between a supple, controlled ride and sharper handling responses. Drivers who take their Range Rover Evoque off-road will be reassured to know that, in addition to generous ground clearance, the car has aggressive breakover and departure angles.

The Range Rover Evoque features a turbocharged powertrain and a state-of-the-art gas engine that offers smooth and responsive power, delivering 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds*, blending four-cylinder efficiency with six-cylinder performance.

The new 240bhp*, 2.0-litre Si4 gasoline engine combines direct fuel injection, turbocharging and twin variable valve timing for exceptional driveability and excellent fuel efficiency, and is available to customers with the choice of three main vehicle design themes, each with its own distinctive character, exterior treatment and carefully co-ordinated interior package.

As part of the comprehensive effort to minimize the car’s ecological impact, the Range Rover Evoque focuses on the use of more sustainable materials. Each vehicle uses approximately 35lbs (16kg)** of recycled plastic material. Parts with recycled content include: headliner, center console, wheel arch liners, air cleaner, cooling fan and shroud, air ducting, side under trays, parcel shelf, engine cover and subwoofer box.

In addition, the metal interior trim on the center console and dashboard is produced from recycled aluminum. The trim fabric used on the headlining and pillars is produced from recycled polyester.

Both coupe and five-door models of the Range Rover Evoque will be manufactured at Land Rover’s multi award-winning Halewood plant in Merseyside, UK. The car will go on sale in more than 160 markets worldwide, with Canadian deliveries to 22 dealers across the country from Fall 2011.

* Data based on manufacturer’s estimates. Actual may vary.

** Manufacturer estimates

Team press release

July 28, 2011: Less than a week after earning a podium finish in Vernon, BC, Kerry Micks coaxed the No. 02 Dickies / Beyond Digital Imaging Ford Fusion home to a fourth-place finish in Wednesday night’s Velocity Prairie Thunder at Auto Clearing Motor Speedway.

While the two strong NASCAR Canadian Tire Series ‘western swing’ finishes were welcomed by the Mt. Albert, Ontario racer, the Wednesday result in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan was somewhat bittersweet given that Micks led a good portion of the race, but fell to fourth when a rear-end gear started to go with 25 laps to go in the 250-lap race.

“We had a very fast car and led a lot of the race,” said Micks, who was able to stretch out considerable leads, at times, during his 46-lap stint at the front (laps 119-164). “The team worked very hard and got it to where we could really drive the car. It was the first time we’ve had a good, soft-setup in this car; it’s almost been two years we’ve been fighting it. So now, we’re finally getting it down pat and we’re really proud of the team for getting the car to where I can drive it.”

But Micks’ hopes for a victory in front of the capacity mid-week crowd were dashed when trouble developed. “We had a rear-end start to go about 25 laps from the end – a gear was seizing up – and I went from near the front, back to fourth. At least I finished the race, though. I made it to the end, luckily, because I only would have made it a few more laps before it gave out altogether. The car was really, really good. But that’s part of racing and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

So while the final outcome wasn’t what the No. 2 Dickies / Beyond Digital Imaging Ford driver was hoping for, the rest of the event was very positive. “We didn’t really have any incidents during the race. Our pit stops were good and smooth, too.”

Prior to the start of the race, Micks was sixth-fastest during practice for the season’s seventh race (of 12) and posted a qualifying lap of 14.752 seconds (81.264 mph) at the 1/3-mile oval, which was good enough to place him fifth on the 21-car starting grid.

The Velocity Prairie Thunder was won by Pete Shepherd, the sixth different winner in seven races so far in 2011. Reigning series champion DJ Kennington started on the pole and looked set to win the race for the second year in a row before Shepherd passed him on the final lap. Don Thomson Jr. claimed the final podium spot in Saskatoon. Points leader Scott Steckly was involved in an early crash and finished 20th, thereby closing the points chase considerably with five races remaining.

The series’ unofficial point standings have Steckly leading the way with 1153 points, followed by Kennington (1133), Thomson Jr. (1062), J.R. Fitzpatrick (1038) and Micks (999).

Discussing the points battle, Micks continued, “We’re getting up there. J.R. [Fitzpatrick] had some problems, too, so we closed up on him. I think we’re fighting to get a top-three points finish by the end of the season. If we can do that, we’ll be very happy.”

The Velocity Prairie Thunder from Auto Clearing Speedway will be telecast by TSN on Saturday, August 6, at 1 p.m. ET. The series’ next race takes place Sunday, August 7 at the Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. It’s the first of two consecutive NASCAR Canadian Tire Series road course races, the second taking place during the NASCAR Nationwide Series weekend at Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

“We’re looking forward to Three Rivers and Montreal,” continued Micks, who has enjoyed success at both venues in the past. “Our cars – including the road course car – have been getting better and better and I think we’re going to do really well in Quebec.”

Race fans are reminded to go to Dickies.ca before the race and pick the winners in the Dickies Race to Win Challenge for a chance to win some great prizes.

For more information on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series please visit www.nascarlocalracing.com.

Kerry Micks is supported by the following sponsors: Williamson-Dickie Canada Co., Beyond Digital Imaging, Prostate Cancer Canada, Steadymate, Seguin Marina, Thor Motors, NGK Spark Plugs, Samester, Castrol and Cathcart Trucking.

Photo by Perry Nelson.

The ultimate goal … Victory Lane!

Staff from the Thorold d-shaped oval are preparing to welcome Feature Winners from the April 23rd 60 lap Spring Sizzler Events and all season long except for that of Miss Merrittville.

“For the first time in our ownership,” relates (Merrittville Speedway GM) Erica Bicknell, “we are enthused that we have considerable interest in candidates for Miss Merrittville 2011 … voting is now open!”

Race Fans and Race Teams alike can now vote on line for their favorite in the race to find Miss Merrittville 2011 by clicking on http://www.merrittvillespeedway.com/candidates.htm.

Some may know the contestants – Amber White, Chantelle Levesque, Emily Wort, Hollee Cooper and Holly Casement but before voting can get to know each one with a short biography included.

Voting will continue until Friday Morning at 9 AM when the Speedway’s Winter Office opens for business. Miss Merrittville 2011 will be announced with the contestant with the most votes declared the winner.

The first official duties for Miss Merrittville 2011 … appearances in the month at a Niagara IceDogs Game and at the Pen Centre (March 21 – March 28) and Seaway Mall (March 28 – April 3) Race Car Shows.

For all the news leading up to Merrittville Speedway’s 60th Consecutive Season including the announcement of Miss Merrittville 2011 visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com or join Merrittville Speedway on Face Book or follow on Twitter.

Join us this season on a Saturday Night for a 60th Anniversary LUCAS OIL WEEKLY RACING SERIES EVENT featuring FIVE Divisions with local heroes and up and coming new stars.

Make your plans … call your friends and maybe even get a carpool together and enjoy a staycation at the speedway with plenty of free parking and camping spots – a night at the races is so much fun and so close to home!

Your Local Dirt Track is where it’s at!!! Merrittville Speedway ‘The Best Family Entertainment in Niagara.”

MERRITTVILLE SPEEDWAY SPONSORS

The 2010 Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series for Merrittville Speedway’s 5 Divisions was brought to race fans and racers by division sponsors – Original Pizza Logs, J&S Heating and Air Conditioning, Hoosier Tire Canada and Turn 4 Collision in addition to contingency sponsors Bicknell Racing Products, Bilstein Shock Absorbers, Brodix Cylinder Heads, Hoosier Tire, Lucas Oil Products, Inside Track Motorsport News, Intercomp, ISC Racer’s Tape, Jaz Products, Kirkey Racing Fabrication, Motorsports Safety Systems, Outerwears, Port City Racing, R.J.S. Racing Equipment, Racing Optics, Schroeder Torsion Bars, Schoenfeld Headers, Ultra Shield Race Products, Wrisco Industries and XRP, Inc.

Lucas Oil Products is one the fastest growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry featuring a premium line of oils, greases and problem solving additives.

Through innovative product research and development along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top selling additive in the industry.

Look for Lucas Oil Products at their favorite automotive retailer or maintenance centre including Drummond Home Hardware, KC Auto Parts, RCM Racing Equipment and Tim Phillips Garage

Oshawa, Ontario (Monday, January 31, 2011) – The Oshawa Assembly Plant today celebrated the start of regular production of the hotly-anticipated 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible in a ceremony with employees and invited guests.

“This is an exciting new chapter in the ongoing revival of the tremendously popular Chevrolet Camaro,” said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of GM of Canada. “The launch of the new convertible opens Camaro design and performance to a new set of enthusiastic customers, while further demonstrating the flexible capabilities of the award-winning Oshawa Assembly Plant.”

The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible is the second of three new vehicles being launched in Oshawa since last September, and two new shifts have been added to support this additional production.

“The entire team here at Oshawa Assembly is dedicated to bringing this stunning vehicle to market with outstanding quality,” stated Dan Hermer, plant manager at the Oshawa Assembly Plant.

“New product mandates like the Camaro Convertible are testaments to the calibre of the workforce in Oshawa,” added Chris Buckley, president of the Canadian Auto Workers Local 222.

Employees were joined by Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, to celebrate the milestone. Hendrick, a Camaro enthusiast who purchased the first 2010 Camaro Coupe that rolled off the line, has now also purchased the first Camaro Convertible available for public sale. In both cases, Rick Hendrick acquired the purchase rights through the Barrett-Jackson auction, with all proceeds benefitting local charities.

“I grew up loving the Chevrolet brand, and I’ve never raced anything else,” Hendrick said. “As a Chevy enthusiast, it’s been exciting to see the Camaro return as such a world-class, high-performance car. The folks in Oshawa make some of the best products on the road, so the opportunity to meet them and thank them for what they do is a real privilege.”

Dale Earnhardt Jr., a driver for Hendrick Motorsports in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, was also present at the celebration and added, “Chevrolet has been a great partner on and off the track, and I’m very happy to be here on this special day. While I still enjoy my 1972 Camaro, I can’t wait to take home one of these awesome new convertibles.”

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, with an MSRP starting at $33,995, will be on sale at local Chevrolet dealerships across Canada starting in February.
]]> http://drivenwheels.com/2011/02/01/oshawa-assembly-plant-celebrates-start-of-production-of-the-2011-chevrolet-camaro-convertible/feed/ 0 http://drivenwheels.com/2011/01/19/dj-kennington-has-a-busy-january/ http://drivenwheels.com/2011/01/19/dj-kennington-has-a-busy-january/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:42:09 +0000 Gary Grant http://blog.drivenwheels.com/?p=2091

DJ Kennington qualifies at Mosport. Photo by Gary Grant

January 18, 2011. 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Champion DJ Kennington is enjoying a couple of very busy and exciting weeks of activity. The #17 Castrol Edge Dodge driver was one of the Head Table Guests at the London Sports Celebrity Dinner that raises money for local charities. This weekend Kennington will be signing autographs at the Canadian Motorsports Expo at the International Centre in Toronto, and then the following weekend he’ll be participating at the NASCAR All Star Showdown in Irwindale, California.

A busy schedule can be a burden to some, but not to the always smiling Castrol Edge Dodge driver Kennington. “The sports dinner in London is a great event” said Kennington. “They raise money to support nearly 7,000 people every year and I’m proud to have been asked to attend” he added.

The annual Canadian Motorsports Expo is set to begin this Friday January 21st and continue through Sunday the 23rd and has become the place to be for racers and race fans each January. Occupying a large exhibit hall at the International Center near Pearson airport Kennington will be in attendance each day of the show. “Castrol has a large presence at this year’s show and we’re bringing our #17 Castrol Edge Dodge to be part of the display” said the driver. “It’s a great opportunity to meet a lot of race fans and I get to say thank you in person for all the congratulations I’m still receiving on the championship” he added.

That 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Title guaranteed Kennington a starting spot in the annual NASCAR All Star Showdown that will take place January 28th and 29th in Irwindale California and the Castrol Edge Dodge driver can’t wait to turn laps on the half mile track. “I’ve watched this event on TV in the past and when you see some of the guys who’ve driven in this event it’s a real honour” said Kennington. “And I’m very happy to have Bill McAnally Racing (BMR) preparing the car for us. In fact BMR has three series champions signed up for this event and I know we’ll have a strong car. I’m anxious to see how we stack up against some tough competition”.

For more information about the Canadian Motorsports Expo and to purchase tickets fans can log onto www.canadianmotorsportsexpo.com Fans will be able to watch Kenninton participate in the NASCAR All Star Showdown from Irwindale California both January 28th and 29th on SPEED.

Race fans are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest team news in several ways. Race fans should bookmark the team website www.djkracing.ca and follow them on twitter, www.twitter.com/djkracing Fans are also suggested to join the Facebook Group DJK Ra

MISSISSAUGA, ON (January 18, 2011) – Infiniti Canada has recruited former racer Scott Goodyear as the driver and host in three new videos that will educate and entertain consumers on some of Infiniti’s newest and most exciting vehicles. In addition to over two decades of professional racing experience, in 2001 Scott Goodyear competed with an Infiniti powered Indy car, making him extremely knowledgeable about Infiniti performance.

The videos which debuted today feature the all-new Infiniti Performance Line™ G Coupe which will arrive in Canada in spring 2011. The 348-horsepower IPL G Coupe is the first vehicle in the Infiniti Performance Line™ offering a new level of premium performance for Infiniti vehicles, focusing not just on engine power and acceleration but on redefining total vehicle performance. The other videos in the series feature the all-new 2011 Infiniti QX56 and Infiniti M56.

“Scott is an esteemed Canadian race car driver who knows all about Infiniti’s inspired performance, so he was a natural partner in the creation of these dynamic videos,” says Wendy Durward, Director, Infiniti Canada. “His sophisticated driving skills allow us to showcase three all-new Infiniti models to their fullest capacity.”

The videos were filmed in Ontario at the Niagara Regional Airport, with the runways repurposed as a controlled driving environment laboratory, and on nearby roads in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The backdrop of beautiful fall colours highlighted the scenic landscape of Niagara making the videos vibrant and alive much like the vehicles featured.

First video