Penske NASCAR Driver, Joey Logano Drives With Thomas Stahler

Penske NASCAR Driver, Joey Logano Drives With Thomas Stahler

In advance of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series visiting Auto Club Speedway for the Auto Club 400 race weekend, Penske Racing driver, Joey Logano visits the Automobile Driving Museum in El Segundo.

Joey Logano (right) pictured here with the President of Auto Club Speedway, Dave Allen as they tour the Automobile Driving Museum (ADM) in El Segundo. The ADM collection of over 130 vehicles is broad and diverse; it includes cars from the earliest days of self-propelled vehicles, through examples of muscle cars. The fleet is fueled and ready to go! Each Sunday the ADM selects three cars and provide rides for their guests. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2017)

After getting a tour of the inside of the museum from the museum docent, Joey sat down with Dave Allen, President of Auto Club Speedway, for a few questions before adjourning to the Automobile Driving Museum's ice cream parlor for a little treat.

Then it was time to drive a few classic cars and entertain a few questions from those gathered to take in the event. After all, this was what the Automobile Driving Museum is all about ... being able to view and DRIVE very classic rolling stock from years past.

Tom Stahler with his latest Porsche project he named ... Project 986 -"Little Bastard". Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2017)

As Tom Stahler, OnMotorsports, stated on his Facebook posting of this video above ... "If Seinfeld can do it, why not us? We went for a drive in a 1961 Ford Thunderbird with 2015 Daytona 500 Champion Joey Logano. We talked Team Penske. Thanks to our friends at Auto Club Speedway and the Automobile Driving Museum! Looking forward to the Auto Club 400 March 26!"

Joey Logano really enjoyed the process given that he is an avid fan of motor culture and automotive history as an active winning Monster Energy NASCAR driver sponsored by Auto Club (currently P5 after 3 races in a 39 race season) and collector of interesting cars.

Tom finished his posting with - "Nice drive yesterday... with a Daytona 500 champ!" ... it certainly was.

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: Joey Logano, Auto Club 400, Penske Racing, Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, Auto Club Speedway,  Dave Allen, Tom Stahler, OnMotorsports, Automobile Driving Museum, El Segundo, The EDJE

Lexus LC 500 Athletic, Artistic, Accomplished

Lexus LC 500h On The Kona Coast. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Lexus LC 500 Athletic, Artistic, Accomplished
by: James Groth, Miles Ahead Communications - Kona, Hawaii - February 2017

“Experience Amazing” is the new tag line for Lexus. The journalists on this media trip certainly did have an amazing experience from the exotic setting of volcanic Kona to the overall performance and striking design of the 2018 Lexus LC 500 and 500h coupes.

Toyota Motor Company committed one billion dollars over a five year development period to launch these Grand Touring Coupes to compete in the Prestige/Luxury Sector of $100,000 cars. The new models arrive in May at a rate of 400 units per month. The low production will add to the exclusiveness prestige clients and early adopters seek. Pricing for the LC 500 will start at $92,000 the LC 500h starts at $96,510.

Lexus LC 500 V8 Showing Its 3D Graphics Tail Lights. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

This project started at the top with president Akido Toyoda. Mr Toyoda changed the culture of Lexus cars from highly reliable generic looking luxury cars to cars with a distinct style and spirited performance. The new models that create powerful emotions from their driver or bystanders.  Mr. Toyoda is also Chief Brand Officer and one of the Lexus Master Drivers, so he is well equipped to inspire as he has with these flagship models.

Lexus LC 500 V8 In Autumn Shimmer Kona, Hawaii. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

The LC coupes are not intended to directly compete with Lamborghini and Ferrari, since these are primarily weekend cars. The target is Mercedes SL, Jaguar F-type and BMW 650, cars that are usable as daily drivers while highly capable as  international touring vehicles. The LC 500 coupes keep the romance of crossing Europe safely at high speed and comfort a practical reality. Note that the LC 500h is particularly fuel efficient for a high performance car, given its EPA rating of 26 city / 35 highway / 30 combined. The V8 version is  EPA rated at 16 /26 /19.

Lexus LC 500 Four Seasons Hotel Kona, Hawaii. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Thees coupes have an entirely new platform designated as GA-L (Global Architecture - Luxury). The design goals that were met are a low center of gravity for improve handling and a chassis stiffness that exceeds even the half million dollar Lexus LFA supercar. During the day long drive roll and lean were never an issue in tight corners. The LC 500 feels as light on its feet as a wide receiver making down field cuts. Co-drivers gave this set up high marks
for comfort and handling.

Lexus LC 500 Road Test Kona, Hawaii. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

I had the opportunity to drive and compare both the 471 horsepower V8 and the 345 horsepower Multi Stage Hybrid V6 with twin electric motors. Both versions have their own personality with only  three-tenths of second  performance variance from 0-60 mph in favor of the V8. The 5.0-liter V8 has DOHC, 32 valves with variable value timing and 398 lb-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm.Red line is 7,100 rpm and peak torque in held from 4,800 to 5,600 rpm.

The acceleration from a stop is to sixty is a mere 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 168 mph. The V8 weights in at 4,280 lbs. The island’s roads while fine for testing on road handing don’t provide many opportunities for high speed, but that was not essential to get the true spirit of how most owners will enjoy their cars. I found two-lane passing effortless and happening as fast as you can plant your right foot down and snap the paddle shifters.

Gear Shift in Leather and Satin Chrome. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)  

The transmission is a 10-speed Sport Direct Shift with paddle shifter and manual mode.  This multi cam V8 is  exhilarating at any speed without flat spots in its power curve. The 10-speed transmission efficiency wastes none of this power by with its rapid change and seeming endless gearing.

However, the rush that impressed me was the sound and feel of dropping fours gears at ninety. It’s a sound I have only heard on the track when Formula 1 or  Indy Cars or are downshifting. I always thought I really don’t need more than five gears as long as one is an overdrive. This Sport Direct Shift 10-speed changed my mind, not only for the fast times and fuel efficiency but
for the sheer fun of it.

Lexus LC 500h in on Kona Coast. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Power in the 500h is derived from an Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter gas V6 with direct fuel injection, variable value timing and red lining at 6,600-rpm. This engine accounts for 220 kW / 295 HP and torque of 348 Nm / 256.7 lb.-ft @ 4,900 rpm. The MSHS allows the LC 500h to operate the gas engine off at speeds up to 87 mph. Emission certification is LEV lll SULEV30.

Lexus LC 500h in Smokey Granite Mica in Kona, Hawaii. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

The hybrid system includes twin permanent magnet synchronous motor generators. MG1’s function is primary generator, engine starter and control of engine speed. MG2 drives the rear wheels and handles regenerative braking. The compact battery is Lithium-icon made up of 84 cells and is located between the rear seats and luggage compartment. The nominal voltage is 310.8V and the system voltage is 650V. The total systems power is 264 kW / 354 HP. The manufacture times are 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds, outstanding for a car that weighs 4,435 lbs. Lexus says this is their first hybrid that can spin its tires.

Lexus LC 500h Multi-Stage Hybrid logo. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Bill Kwong of Lexus College explained the Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive as keeping the planetary-type continuously variable transmission and adding a unique four-speed transmission. Working in concert,the two gears alter output in four stages to utilize the V6 engine across the entire speed range. In M mode, the two gear sets act together to provide the effect of 10 ratios, giving the LC 500h a highly engaging feel and allowing the driver to shift thought the ratios with paddle shifters.

Lexus LC 500h in Ultra White. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Top speed in the hybrid is electronically limited to155 mph, another indication that this model is not trying to be a track day star. Instead this is a 2+2 is designed for safe touring in comfort at speed. These coupes are front midship engine layouts with rear-wheel drive.

I inquired about the possibility of all-wheel drive. No AWD is planned at this time and in the case of the 500h there in not the space to accommodate the hardware. Given the effectiveness of the suspension that includes double ball joint front suspension AWD should not be draw back. The turning circle curb to curb is a tight 17.7 ft and with the optional Active Rear Steering a mere 17.4 ft.

The Lexus Corporate Identity Design Feature Is Its Spindle Grill. Image Credit: James Groth (2017) 

The spindle grill gives the LC 500 coupes a distinctive recognizable look and is the brands signature design feature. Lexus designed a unique mesh texture that changes visual tension as it spreads across the front of the car.

Compact Triple Projector LED Headlights. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Adding to the sleek look of the front end are ultra compact triple LED headlamps with functional venting.The venting adds aerodynamic stability and cooling.

The Chrome-Plated Moldings Reflect A Traditional Japanese Sword. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

The chrome plated moldings on the edge of the roof are meant to represent the lines of a traditional Japanese sword. Even the rear tail lights have a design element to them not previously seen. The tail lights use mirrors to create a three dimensional series of L-shaped graphics.

The standard wheels are 20” cast aluminum with run flats Fr. 245/45RF20. and Rr. 275/40RF20. There optional forged aluminum 20” Fr. 245/45RF/20 and Rr. 275/45/20 and 21”Fr. 245/45RF20 and Rr. 275/35RF21. The front brakes have 6-piston calipers and the rear have 4-piston calipers.

Materials and Details Showcase ’Takumi’ Craftsmanship Artisan Design. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

The interior appointments of the monotone interior are exquisite with switches that are intuitive requiring little movement to reach.  An 8” LCD display with Eco driving indicator is set low in the cockpit in keeping with the low center of gravity objective. The door handles are sculptures in satin chrome. Alcantara door panels have a wave effect artistically complimenting the lines of the dash. All of the interior stitching is done by hand and is so precise
it’s hard to tell.                          

The Satin Chrome Door Handles Are Sculptures. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Thankfully Lexus designers have retained an upright gearshift lever rather than a ‘pop up dial shifter’. A 10.3 inch multi-information display combines graphic user interface with upgradeable software along with latest remote touch interface touchpad.

The instrument binnacle is unique in its singular design and look. It is the lasted version of thin film transistor display tech, first introduced on the LFA supercar. Front seats are 10-way power in leather, rear seats are Nu Luxe.

Traditional it is not, the LC 500 may be setting the new contemporary look for functionality.  It is understandable why the LC 500 was selected as “Best Design Interior”.

10-Way Power Front Seats in Leather, Rears in NuLuxe. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

The test LC 500h came equipped with the optional Mark Levinson 835 watt, 7.1 channel,13-speaker system  tailored to the LC interior and will attract audiophiles seeking a reference quality setup. This system includes Claire-Fi music restoration tech that enhances playback by analyzing and improving the sound quality of compressed digitized music.

Also, there are Sport, Performance and Touring Packages to further personalize the LC5 500h. As expected in this level of automobile all the latest safety systems are standard and include pre-collision with pedestrian detection, all-speed radar cruise control, lane departure with steering assist, sway warning and intelligent high beam system.

Lexus LC 500 An Aggressive Design and Stance Backed Up by Its Performance. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Lexus already has ‘reliable’,’trusted’ and ‘practical' in their consumer confidence deck, now they are adding the emotional appeal of ‘high style design' to their hand of cards. For some the trump card may be the offering of a hybrid model with unrivaled fuel efficiency for its sector; the figures are worth repeating 26 city / 35 highway / 30 combined.




TAGS: Lexus, Lexus 500, Lexus 500h, Experience Amazing, Toyota Motor Company, James Groth  

‘Comments From The Canyon’ - The Inaugural ‘Classic Auto Show’ Los Angeles January 27-29, 2017

1962 First Production Shelby Cobra “Best of Show Grand Boulevard’ owned by Bruce Meyer.

Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

‘Comments From The Canyon’ 
The Inaugural ‘Classic Auto Show’ Los Angeles January 27-29, 2017
By: James Groth for The English Car Company

Internationally known classic car owner and Founding Chairman of the Petersen Automotive Museum, Bruce Meyer opened the media event for the inaugural ‘Classic Auto Show’ at the Los Angles Convention Center. Bruce’s narration covered the history of each of the stunning black automobiles on display in the ‘Winners Circle’ many from the Margie and Robert E. Petersen Automotive Museum.

1925 Rolls Royce Phantom Aero Coupe by Jonckheere of Belgium from the Petersen Museum. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

1932 Ford “Roller Coupe” owned by Bruce Meyer. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Bruce shared personal stories as well. The most memorable story was about the three thousand trip he and his wife of forty-eight years took in his 1932 Ford “Roller Coupe” from Beverly Hills to Victoria, Canada.This hot rod is truly a period build of the early 1950’s and is without the amenities of a modern hot rod.

Interior of Bruce Meyer’s 1932 “Roller Coupe” hot rod. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Light weight materials and design were garnered from World War ll aircraft for this custom built 1932 Ford, even the seats are out of a military plane.  The interior is comfortable per the Meyer’s, but in the sense of early off road vehicles, great for any true enthusiast. The hot rod also has a large enough trunk to carry everything for their adventurous trip.

Gurney Toyota GTP at the Petersen Museum, a similar one was on display at the Classic Car Show. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

An All Star Team from Velocity TV was in full force at the Classic Car Show LA to hold a number of seminars with Q&A on collecting, restoring, detailing and valuation of collector cars. A number of the Velocity Team also attended the Petersen Automotive Museum event to honor race car driver, designer and team owner Dan Gurney.

Foose Design 1956 Ford F-100 Pickup. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Among the Velocity Team I had a word with were ‘Overhaulin’ design legend Chip Foose of Huntington Beach, CA, Car restorer and host of ‘Chasing Classic Cars’ Wayne Carini was in from New England as well as Englishman, Mike Brewer co-host of ‘Wheeler Dealers, all were there to honor the legendary career of Dan Gurney and enjoy the remodeled Petersen, their exceptional collection of Gurney race cars.

1929 DuPont Model G Speedster by Merrimack. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

1929 DuPont BoatTail Rear End. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

1941 Chrysler Barrowback Woodie with Chris Craft Canoe ‘Best of Show Grand Boulevard’ owned by Mike Malamut. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Custom Built Cross Continental Racer. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

This is one of two cars built on a fire truck chassis designed for and having competed in cross continental endurance racing. The vehicle weighs 8,000 pounds and has a 14 liter motor. Given the lack of gas stations on these endurance runs the team had to carry five extra fuel cans on the vehicle.

People Choice Award 1956 Austin Healey owned by Bill Hoyt. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

Number 1 Shelby Cobra owned by Bruce Meyer. Image Credit: James Groth(2017)

The number 1 Shelby Cobra was on display looking better than new. This car did not have a race history but is truly significant by the fact that this 1962 is the first ever production built Shelby Cobra. It’s now is powered by a Ford 289 cid rather than the Ford 260 cid motors installed in the early Cobras. The 1962 Shelby Cobra won ‘Best of Show Grand Boulevard’ for collector Bruce Meyer.

1932 Ford Ray Brown Dry Lakes Racer in Sherwood Green owned by Petersen Museum. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

A 1950’s Mercury ‘Lead Sled’, one of the many spectacular custom cars from the LA Car Clubs on display. Image Credit: James Groth (2017)

From an attendee experience this first time show put on by Sr. VP Mike Carlucci and his team was a success in terms of the high quality of the show cars and the impressive list of guest speakers from Velocity’s cable shows. The Los Angeles car clubs turned out in full force enabling for an exceptionally diverse collection of European, Asian and American customs and hot rods. The planned date for the 2018 show per Mr. Carlucci is expected to be in March. I wish them continued success and appreciated all who presented their cars or organized this quality event.



TAGS: Comments From The Canyon, James Groth, Los Angeles, Inaugural, Classic Car Show, Velocity, Overhaulin, Chip Foose, Bruce Meyer, Petersen Automotive Museum, Chasing Classic Cars, Wayne Carini, Wheeler Dealers, Mike Brewer, Mike Carlucci, Dan Gurney

Iconic Lotus ESPRIT S1 Reborn As An Evora Sport 410 By Lotus Exclusive

Unique, single-production Evora Sport 410, created by Lotus Exclusive as a tribute to one of Lotus' most famous liveries. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

Iconic Lotus ESPRIT S1 Reborn As An Evora Sport 410 By Lotus Exclusive

Representing the state of the supercar art, a one-of Evora Sport 410 has been commissioned through Lotus Exclusive as a tribute to one of its most famous ancestors, the Lotus Esprit S1.

A very special Lotus Esprit S1 that, in the James Bond movie - The Spy Who Loved Me, featured the additional capabilities of shooting rockets and missiles, as well as becoming a submarine with the push of a button. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

Launched in October 2016, the Evora Sport 410 has wowed motoring press and customers with its combination of effortless pace and intuitive handling. With production limited to just 150 examples a year worldwide, the build schedule is filling up fast.

This Evora Sport 410 features a black coach line that delineates the car’s waist. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

The benchmark was set by the original Lotus Esprit S1 as seen in the Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, and Lotus’ in-house personalisation department, Lotus Exclusive, has crafted a special, one-of Evora Sport 410 in commemoration.

Carbon-fibre is the featured component used for the 

tailgate, rear quarter panels, as well as the rear diffuser. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)
Combining the latest in Lotus engineering with period details, the new pure-bred supercar takes design cues from the iconic Esprit and integrates them into a car with class-leading performance. Packing 410 hp into a car that weighs just 1,280 kg, it sprints from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 secs.

The use of hand-made carbon-fibre components has been key in keeping mass to a minimum, with each specifically designed to enhance the car’s performance. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “So many of us recall the impact of the Lotus Esprit when it hit the big screen in The Spy Who Loved Me (movie trailer featuring the Lotus Esprit S1), and we wanted to honor that with a special Evora Sport 410. It’s the perfect tribute to such an influential Lotus, but a world away in terms of its abilities and performance. Supremely fast and agile, rivals’ cars look overweight and under-powered in comparison. Lotus was founded on the principle of lightweight engineering and, even today, nobody does it better.”

Lotus Exclusive's attention to detail:

The work of the in-house Lotus Exclusive personalisation department of this one-of Evora Sport 410 features many unique design touches.

A special, color-coded bumper modifies the car’s front end, while the one-piece carbon-fibre tailgate is part keyed white to give the illusion of a traditional liftback. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

In addition to a black coach line, delineating the car’s waist, it sports a bespoke badge script on the B pillar - in the style of the original Esprit’s graphics. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

Nods to the Lotus Esprit S1 from The Spy Who Loved Me continue inside, with the insert panels of the carbon-fibre sports seats and door cards trimmed in the popular heritage Tartan, while red contrast stitching complements the Alcantara® dashboard and console finish. Image Credit: Group Lotus plc (2017)

Beneath the personalisation, this unique car retains all the engineering elements that make the Evora Sport 410 so formidable. From the supercharged, 3.5-litre 6-cylinder engine, producing 410 hp at 7000 rpm and 420 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm, to the highly advanced aerodynamics, which deliver up to 64 kg of downforce, it’s designed to deliver both on road and track.

The Evora Sport 410 remains refined on B-roads, but blisteringly fast when needed. The use of hand-made carbon-fibre components has been key in keeping mass to a minimum, with each specifically designed to enhance the car’s performance. Covering the car from nose to tail, they include front splitter, revised front access panel, roof section, tailgate, rear quarter panels, as well as the rear diffuser.

These lightweight carbon components not only reduce the curb weight of the Evora Sport 410 but also help lower the center of gravity, allowing for the recalibration of the suspension, which, along with re-valved dampers and a reduced ride height, provide better body and roll control - but not at the expense of comfort and composure.

This single-production Evora underlines the work of the increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive service. Combining traditional British craftsmanship with modern design, it inspires buyers to spend time tailoring the character of their Lotus with a comprehensive array of options.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc continued, “Our customers have really embraced the Lotus Exclusive service, with 25% of new cars undergoing some form of personalisation. It is well established that Lotus cars come with benchmark performance as standard. Now, thanks to the skilled team at Hethel, responsible for hand building all Lotus cars since 1966, you can specify a Lotus that perfectly reflects your personal tastes.”

The standard production Lotus Evora Sport 410 is limited to a global production run of one-hundred and fifty (150) vehicles per year, and is on sale in Europe and rest of world markets now. A Federal version of the Evora Sport 410 for the North American market will arrive this spring.

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: Lotus Exclusive, Lotus Evora Sport 410, Lotus Cars, Lotus Esprit S1, The Spy Who Loved Me, one-off, one-of, single-production, The Spy Who Loved Me, 40th anniversary, James Bond, The EDJE

43rd Toyota Grand Prix Of Long Beach Issues Swintal Poster For Event

Jim Swintal captures 2016 Verizon IndyCar Champion and Penske Racing driver Simon Pagenaud coming out of Turn 9 off of the back straight as he goes on to win his first Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.  Image Credit: Jim Swintal via GPALB (2017)

43rd Toyota Grand Prix Of Long Beach Issues Swintal Poster For Event

The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach announced today that Jim Swintal has been named Official Artist of the 2017 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. As such, Swintal has created the artwork that will adorn not only the official race poster but also the souvenir program, Fan Guide and other materials.

From his childhood in South Bend, Ind. to his days in race control for CART, Champ Car and the Verizon IndyCar Series, motor racing has been a focal point in Jim Swintal’s life, just as it is the focal point of his art.  His work captures the excitement of some of racing’s most memorable moments, and this year’s Grand Prix race poster art certainly qualifies.

Swintal made his first journey to the Indianapolis 500 at age 13 and was instantly enthralled. After graduation in 1979 from Notre Dame, Swintal settled in Chicago as an architect and joined the Sports Car Club of America as a volunteer corner marshal until 1990, when he stepped in as Indy Lights starter at the season's first race in Phoenix.

Official artist for the 43rd Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, Jim Swintal works in his studio as he develops the travel post card inspired images that will grace and commemorate Southern California's motor culture rite of spring . Image Credit: GPALB (2017)

He was named CART starter in 1993 and started every race in Long Beach until 2002 when he was promoted to Clerk of the Course. In 2010 he joined race control staffs of both the Verizon IndyCar Series and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. On race weekend Swintal, who lives in Irvine, will handle a variety of communications duties for both series.

“I’ve always enjoyed the exciting atmosphere at Long Beach and I had some interesting honorary starters help me here: Jay Leno, Tommy Lasorda, John Elway, just to name a few,” Swintal said.

For 2017, his second commission for the race, Swintal has created a piece that depicts every series racing here in a classic travel postcard format.

"The postcard captures the energy and excitement of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach - an event that is the envy and benchmark of all other street races,” said Swintal.

The official Grand Prix poster will cost $10 and be available online at gplb.com in the coming weeks, as well as at merchandise booths throughout the Grand Prix venue on race weekend.

Alvaro Parente, Porto Portugal, McLaren 650S GT3 coming out of Turn 6 as he races at the 2016 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach in the Pirelli World Challenge sports car event. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2016)

The 2017 Grand Prix will be headlined by the second round of the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series, as well as the BUBBA burger Sports Car Grand Prix, featuring the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and its all-new prototype cars. In addition, the weekend will include the Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge under the lights on Friday and Saturday nights; SPEED Energy Stadium Super Trucks, and the powerful sports cars of the Pirelli World Challenge.

Ticket prices for the three-day event range from $32 for a Friday General Admission ticket to $142 for a three-day ticket that includes Saturday and Sunday reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, Verizon IndyCar Series Paddock access passes, Super Photo tickets and an array of VIP Club packages.

Fans can select and pay for their 2017 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.  A printed ticket brochure that includes a circuit map, ticket prices, order form and other information is also available.

Fans can also follow the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on Facebook at GrandPrixLB, Twitter @ToyotaGPLB, Instagram at ToyotaGPLB and Snapchat at ToyotaGPLB.
(ht: GPALB)

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: Jim Swintal, Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, 43rd, #TGPLB43, Verizon IndyCar Series, BUBBA burger, Sports Car Grand Prix, IMSA, WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Pirelli World Challenge, SPEED Energy Stadium Super Trucks, Motegi Racing Super Drift Challenge, The EDJE

First Class In Competition - The New Lotus Exige Race 380

The critically acclaimed Exige Sport 380 before race-bred engineering to a Exige Race 380. Image Credit: Jarowan Power - Lotus Cars

First Class In Competition - The New Lotus Exige Race 380 

Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380 - the track-only sibling of what has been hailed as one of the marque’s most significant and sensational cars, the critically acclaimed Exige Sport 380.

One may first notice the new expanded rear wing for additional downforce. Exige Race 380. Image Credit: Lotus Cars

375 hp and 410 Nm

Weight cut to just 998 kg dry

0-60 mph in just 3.2 secs

Laps Hethel 1.5 seconds quicker than Exige Cup R

Aerodynamic downforce boosted to 240 kg

Image Credit: Lotus Cars

Combining Lotus’ vehicle development skills with its motorsport pedigree, the class-leading competition car will set the pace when the first production cars reach owners in May 2017. As part of the current Exige’s development cycle, the Race 380 will become the race car of choice for teams as well as privateers for the 2017 / 2018 season.

Taking one of the world’s best supercars, the Exige Sport 380, the new model provides the ultimate in race-bred engineering and comes with a host of competition-focused components as standard.

Gearbox, suspension, aerodynamics and electrical systems are among the items that have been modified to reflect the car’s role but, despite the fact that the new Race model is not available in a road-legal specification, the majority of the original car’s configuration is retained, thanks to the Exige Sport 380’s highly advanced development.

Image Credit: Lotus Cars

Unveiled late last year, the Lotus Exige Sport 380 has proved to be one of Lotus’ most successful new models in recent years, with orders for the next four months’ production already allocated.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented: “The Lotus Exige Sport 380 is a real giant slayer on the road, and one of the quickest A to B supercars around. It gave us the ideal platform from which to develop the new Exige Race 380 - a peerless competition car designed to beat the best. By setting its weight below 1000kg, its power to weight is unsurpassed in its class. When lapping Hethel, it’s a phenomenal 1.5 seconds faster than the previous Exige Cup R - a massive performance gain. It’s an unparalleled race car that follows the philosophy of Colin Chapman and we can’t wait for customers to experience its capabilities.”

The Lotus Exige Race 380 in more detail

In keeping with its name, the new Exige Race 380 includes a wide range of competition-orientated options as standard, covering everything from drivetrain to driver information system – all designed to increase the car’s capabilities. Developed to be eligible for the world-wide Lotus Cup series and a number of clubman championships, this race car is every inch a winner.

Retaining the race-proven 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, the Exige Race 380 boasts 375 hp at 6,700 rpm and 410 Nm (302 lbft) of torque at 5,000 rpm. However, in order to extract every ounce of performance, the car comes with an Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission, oil cooler, and cassette-type plate limited slip differential, and is operated by carbon paddles located behind the steering wheel. Opting for the full exhaust system in titanium removes a further 10 kg from beyond the rear axle. Extremely quick off the line, the Exige Race 380 sprints from 0-60 in just 3.2 secs, and laps the Hethel track in an outstanding 1 minute 23.5 seconds - the fastest ever for an Exige.

Generating even more downforce from the car’s aerodynamics, the Race 380 produces a phenomenal 240 kg at 170 mph, thanks to some careful revisions. Vents are incorporated into the front bodywork and rear bumper to reduce pressure around the wheels and increase downforce; and a grille mounted at the rear aids air circulation through the engine bay. A new front splitter reduces pressure beneath the Exige, whilst the rear diffuser and larger and a straight-cut motorsport rear wing mounted to the bodywork helps modify airflow at the rear of the car.

Image Credit: Lotus Cars

Helping the Exige exploit its performance, the Race 380 employs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard (wider 215/45 ZR17 at the front; 265/35 ZR18 at the rear), renowned for their predictable handling and high grip, which are complemented by the car’s ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels. The same attention to detail has been applied to the brakes, with AP Racing forged, four-piston calipers and grooved two-piece brake disc providing the stopping power.

The Exige has long set the benchmark for handling and, to ensure it remains perfectly poised and agile, the Race 380 uses a revised suspension configuration, incorporating 2-way adjustable Öhlins dampers and adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars. This, together with the Lotus Traction Control System, where the amount of wheel slip can be adjusted by the driver from the cockpit, allows owners to fine tune the vehicle’s handling characteristics.

The Exige Race 380 features a full, integrated roll cage, lightweight FIA Carbon driver seat (HANS compatible) and a six-point harness, as well as ultra-lightweight polycarbonate side windows, competition specification fire extinguisher, battery isolator and front and rear motorsport towing eyes. An ultra-lightweight carbon-fiber motorsport specific louvered tailgate panel is fitted over the engine and carbon-fiber air intake pods are fitted to either side of the car forward of the rear wheels. As with other race cars in the Lotus range, headlamps are replaced by matte black covers and airbags are not included in the specification.

Helping the driver stay on pace, the new Exige Race 380’s color TFT instrument cluster offers numerous user customize-able and programmable screen configurations. Incorporating a track data logger and GPS unit, owners have the opportunity to upgrade this logger with professional data analysis software.

As well as being designed to win, the Exige Race 380 looks exceptional and retains many of the hand-made carbon-fiber components from the Exige Sport 380 including the front inspection cover, hard top and diffuser surround.

The Exige Race 380 is available to order now, priced £99,500 excluding VAT ($122,723.30).
(ht: Lotus Cars)

... notes from The EDJE


TAGS: Lotus, Lotus Cars, Exige Race 380, Exige Sport 380, AP Racing, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, Öhlins dampers, Lotus Traction Control System, Lotus Cup, The EDJE

FIA Formula E At CES ... Virtual Racing, Sensation Without Skin-In-The-Game Consequence

FIA Formula E At CES ...

... Virtual Racing, Sensation Without Skin-In-The-Game Consequence

Interview conducted by Edmund Jenks with Stephen Harvey after he attended the Visa Vegas eRace simulation technology promotional race licensed by FIA Formula E, using Cloud Sport virtual gaming services and Playseat driving simulators at 2017 CES (Consumer Electronics Show).

Stephen runs a consulting effort that develops digital strategies producing relevant, engaging, successful online campaigns that get results. In the interview, the Formula E experience is developed and explored from firsthand attendance at two races held at the Toyota Grand Prix Of Long Beach temporary street course track then explores the simulation race-off on the floor at 2017 CES trade show in Las Vegas.

After the taping of the interview, Stephen, who is is also a member of the Social Media Club of Los Angeles (SMCLA), was asked about the main business case that may be made for such an event - and this is what he wrote back:

The main business aspect of the event was to tie together the world of eSports and the motorsports world. eSports are going to be huge with lots of money pouring in starting right now. This year you will see an explosion in eSporting events and prize money involved. Also, big brands (ie VISA) are recognizing that eSports are an up-n-coming market that they can get in with on the ground floor. Gamers have money and the gaming community is quite large.

SMCLA actually had a panel event a few months ago about eSports and how they are on the cusp on being huge. It was likened to how MMA and X-Games were a few years ago and then just took off in popularity.

Stephen Harvey's Facebook Live Pre-eRace Event Broadcast At CES

This explanation of event sensation without skin-in-the-game consequence is the imagined state of what a driver may feel as he, or she, competes in a virtual reality "program and display" world.

Visa Vegas eRace Highlights - Formula E

Using the drivers and branding of FIA Formula E combined with the sponsorship of VISA, the credit card company, using Cloud Sport virtual gaming services, and Playseat driving simulators to promote virtual racing is an interesting proposition, in that electric car racing platforms present a pretty large conceptual change in a fan's attendance to the racing experience already ... it just isn't the over century old form of traditional propulsion vehicle racing.

Sim Racers On Gaming - Formula E

With the concept of virtual reality vehicle racing, we are treated to an experience void of real vehicles, propulsion via any energy deliverance means. Further, if one isn't familiar with just who is piloting the images that appear on a large screen in real time, an opportunity for a large disconnect between the competitive event and the consuming FAN can take place to the determent of the actual value of competition (no matter the prize money amount) in the first place.

 Over time, degradation to "Racing" in general can become a real problem to motor culture overall - as in ... "Who Cares?"!

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: Visa Vegas eRace, FIA Formula E, VISA, Cloud Sport, virtual gaming, Playseat, driving simulators, CES, The EDJE, Stephen Harvey