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F1: Preview & Provisional Starting Grid of 2022 Miami Grand Prix

Race starts at 3:30 pm in Miami on Sunday/3:30 am on Monday in Malaysia

In its quest to grow interest in America, Formula 1 has been actively looking for new venues to hold races. It has been helped by the Netflix series, Drive to Survive, which has been giving audiences worldwide a behind-the-scenes look at the sport so Americans are more familiar with the championship. There have been F1 races before and Miami will be the 11th location in the USA. The other circuits have been at Riverside, Sebring, Watkins Glen, Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit, Dallas, Phoenix, Indianapolis and the Circuit of the Americas (Texas).

While the Indianapolis 500 was a part of the World Drivers’ Championship between 1950 and 1960, the first F1 race in America was in Florida in 1959 at Sebring. Miami has never had F1 races before, it has had Grand Prix (not F1) racing in 1983 and 1984. They were not really successful and promoters went back to putting their money into more locally-flavoured motorsports like the IMSA and NASCAR series which the American audience could identify with. But with Formula 1 now having American ownership, there is strong support to push F1 to higher levels.

This year, the city gets a F1 race and although the original idea was to have the track near the water (like Monaco), that has not been possible and a specially-constructed 5.4-km track has been constructed around the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. The new complex is known as the Miami International Autodrome and just a couple of months ago, residents were trying to stop the race as they felt the noise would be too great. However, they lost the court case and so the event can go ahead.

Miami will present a new challenge for all the drivers and teams as the circuit is brand new. There is no data from previous races to refer to, so that will be an equalizer. There are 19 corners, most of them low and high-speed corners but not very many in the mid-range. There are also several long straights and three DRS zones. The contrasting demands of the high and low speed ends, and the two long straights should pose a set-up dilemma.

“We are basically going blind into the race, and I think most people are in the same boat as us. For qualifying, we had more of an idea but things can change very quickly with the weather around here. There isn’t much grip off the racing line on this track and it feels very gravely out there too. It is a shame because I think racing will be hard due to that. Saying that, I think it is going to be an interesting race because all of us don’t know exactly where we are!” said Oracle Red Bull Racing’s Sergio Perez.

Because this is a brand new track, the surface is also fresh and to ensure that there is good grip for the tyres, the composition has a high amount of limestone (not normally found on other circuits). The drivers have noticed its unusual characteristic and it seems to be doing its job so far with no on complaining.

“The brand new surface is likely to lead to a high degree of track evolution, especially at the start of the weekend, with the Porsche Challenge and W Series as support events. The weather could be unpredictable, with ambient temperatures of around 20 degrees and quite a high risk of rain and wind on the Florida coast at this time of year,” said Mario Isola, Pirelli’s Motorsport Director.

“The track has some similarities to Jeddah, although there are some parts that are slower and more technical than in Saudi Arabia (especially the section from Turns 11 to 16). The rest is a very quick layout, running anti-clockwise, which puts the emphasis on the tyres on the right-hand side of the car. We’re expecting the usual rapid track evolution and a smooth surface with the new asphalt, but the track has been jet-washed at high pressure, which means that it should offer quite good grip from the beginning,” Isola explained.

“Because it’s a fast track the cars are likely to run a low to medium downforce set-up, which could lead to a bit of sliding in the high-speed corners on the hard compounds in particular. For any new track our choice tends to be on the conservative side, so it will be interest to confront the simulations with real data,” he said.

Without past data, Pirelli has had to rely on simulation data to come up with the tyre nominations. It has chosen three tyres in the middle of the range: P Zero White hard is the C2, P Zero Yellow medium is the C3, and P Zero Red soft is the C4. This combination is the most commonly-used one all year, and also the most versatile.

The fact there are three long straights each with DRS zones and each leading into slow corners, means there are good overtaking opportunities. Turn 11 and Turn 17 will likely be the key places to watch out for. But the track is also quite narrow in some places, compared to permanent tracks. While this does make it harder to race side-by-side, it may prove important in terms of strategy and the opportunity to make places because cars and debris will be harder to clear. The likelihood of a Safety Car or Virtual Safety Car is high.

“Expectations can be very different to reality and wheel-to-wheel racing isn’t something we can simulate in our pre-race preparations, so we’ll have to wait and see how things progress over the race weekend,” said Mercedes-AMG’s Toto Wolff.

The BWT Alpine F1 Team was missing one driver – Esteban Ocon – during Qualifying as he had a bad crash in FP3 and the car was too damaged to be repaired in time. However, he will start the race from the pitlane.

*The cornering speed and gears that will be used by the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Team drivers.*

Like Pirelli, the Brembo people who supply brake systems also don’t have any data to work with. According to Brembo technicians, the Miami circuit will have a medium level of difficulty for brakes. Although there are 19 turns, the drivers only have to really use the brakes in 4 places around the track. However, 3 of those 4 braking moments are extremely demanding: in those sections, the drops in speed exceed 200 km/h, the braking distance 115 metres and the braking time is just 2.4 seconds.

will.i.am to reveal one-off Mercedes-AMG sportscar at Miami F1 Grand Prix this weekend

Volkswagen’s design boss wants to know what you think of a pick-up version of the ID. Buzz

Developing new car designs is a challenge as the designers have to anticipate trends and look ahead to market needs. They may have new ideas and features, but how will car-buyers respond? To get an idea of how people feel, concept cars are built and displayed to show proposed designs so feedback can be collected. From what they learn, they can know what appeals and what doesn’t and create a winner with the next new model.

These days, it’s not necessary to spend money making a concept model as digital renderings can provide very realistic representations. Furthermore, it’s not even necessary to display the cars in physical form (though it is still done at motorshows to draw crowds). There is now social media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter – where millions of consumers can be reached and their opinions collected.

Recently, during World Design Day, Volkswagen Group Design boss Klaus Zyciora posted just one image of an idea on his Instagram page (and also the Volkswagen Group’s) and wrote: “On the way from an idea to production, there are a lot of unseen design drafts made – like this one: An #IDBuzz pick-up! What do you think about it?”. His post immediately went global and his team must still be going through all the comments posted.

The pick-up derivative of the just-launched ID. Buzz, the 21^st century electric successor to the iconic Transporter/Kombi, is just a proposal. The design is not based on the production ID. Buzz but draws more on the original concept of the model that was first shown in 2017.

2022 Volkswagen ID.Buzz — *ID. Buzz BEV (battery-electric vehicle) which will go on sale in Europe later this year.*

*The new Amarok undergoing testing. It is more of a workhorse type of pick-up whereas the proposal for the ID. Buzz variant would be towards lifestyle activities and usage.*

It would undoubtedly sit on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform for electric vehicles which has been developed to accept many bodystyles. In fact, even before the ID. Buzz goes on sale in Europe later this year, the carmaker has said that work is being done on a ‘California Camper’ version (shown below) as well as an autonomous variant for ride-sharing operators. Both are expected to enter the market in 2025.

Volkswagen already has a new generation of the Amarok pick-up truck on the way, with a battery-electric version likely to appear in the second half of the decade. The Amarok is a workhorse vehicle and Volkswagen may see some potential in the lifestyle segment where it can offer this ID. Buzz pick-up.

Volkswagen’s designers have always been thinking of a modern pick-up based on the Transporter. This was one idea which was displayed at the carmaker’s Autostadt exhibition complex in Germany in 2006.

Clearly, it is not being conceived as a workhorse and would be aimed at customers who want to take along their activity gear like bikes or surfboards, just like the original Transporter (except the surfboards went on the roof).

Many of the styling elements would be just ideas for now so it’s hard to say how the final product could look like but the proportions of the 4-door cabin and short rear deck will probably be adopted. Below the doors appears to be integrated side-steps which could also make it to production as they suit the overall design well.

*Volkswagen has produced a pick-up version of the Transporter/Kombi for decades.*

The idea of a pick-up variant of a van is not new to Volkswagen as previous Transporter generations did have such a variant. Like the MEB platform, the original platform for the Beetle was also versatile enough for different bodystyles. One of them, known as the ‘Doppelkabine’, may eventually be regarded as the grandfather of the ID. Buzz pick-up if it does make it to the showrooms in future.

If you would like Volkswagen ‘s design head to know what you think about the pick-up concept, click here to post your comments on his Instagram page.

Proton badly affected by chip shortage, cumulative sales 25% lower than 2021

Demand is high but Proton, like most other carmakers, cannot complete its new vehicles at the factory because crucial components are in short supply. These are the microchips which are in the many electronic systems that modern cars have; just one item not available and the vehicle cannot be completed. This situation has been ongoing since last year and has limited the number of vehicles Proton can deliver, resulting in customers having to wait longer.

The chart below shows the effects of the shortage as each month this year has seen less deliveries than the same month in 2021. By right, the numbers should be accelerating as there is strong demand but Proton can only report what it delivers, not what is in its order bank.

The carmaker reported 8,829 units (including exports) for the month of April, a decrease of 32.2% compared to the month before and 41.1% less than what was reported in April 2021. This volume is estimated to be a 15.6% share of the Total Industry Volume (TIV) in April and cumulatively for the first four months of 2022, the market share should be around 17%.

Long waiting list
Commenting on the situation, Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar, said: “After two years of pandemic-affected sales, Malaysia’s automotive market continues to show strong growth potential in 2022, as evidenced by the long waiting list for new car deliveries. Proton is also trying to catch up to market demand, but we also must acknowledge being the most affected by chip supply issues.”

“Thankfully for our customers, we have secured our supply of chips for May and June and are projecting a quick turnaround in the coming months. The situation is still uncertain for the rest of the year and the global car industry is under pressure from rising costs, but the company is working on countermeasures against these issues to ensure our customers get the best products and value in Malaysia and abroad,” he explained.

Saga remains bestseller
The Saga continued to be the bestselling Proton in April and no doubt will get a boost in demand when the updated model is launched later this month. The two SUVs – the X50 and X70 – also remain very popular with 1,554 units and 1,530 units delivered, respectively. The evergreen Exora is still tops in the MPV C-segment with its unbeatable value-for-money.

The supply situation also affects exports and in April, 456 units were sent overseas. These brought the total export volume for 2022 to 1,573 units, which is 109.7% higher than for the same period in 2021. At present, Pakistan is the biggest export market for Proton, having taken 1.050 units, followed by Egypt (172 units) and Brunei (138 units).

Proton’s new Gallery of Inspiration shows carmaker’s past, present and future

BFGoodrich Advantage Touring for sedans, pick-ups, MPVs, and SUVs

These days, the line between road-going vehicles and off-road vehicles is a bit blurred. Modern SUVs and crossovers can cruise on highways comfortably at high speeds and also go off the highway onto rough terrain. Actually, if the trail is not muddy or too rocky, almost any type of vehicle can be used as long as there is enough ground clearance and the driver is careful.

This being the case, tyres too should have broader applications and the new BFGoodrich Advantage Touring offers such capability. According to Michelin Malaysia, which distributes BFGoodrich tyres as well, the Advantage Touring is positioned as one simple tyre line to cover sedan, pick-up, MPV, and SUV fitments.

Essentially on ‘on-road’ tyre, it is designed to be used on any road drivers may want to take. “The BFGoodrich Advantage Touring targets active-lifestyle drivers who want the best value for their money and demand confident control for urban adventure. This newly launched tyre stands out with its extensive size offerings, as well as improved performance and aesthetics,” said Oliver Biggart, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia.

Various features address the expectations of drivers of different types of vehicles in different conditions. For example, the asymmetric, non-directional tread pattern with computer-optimized footprint reduces interior cabin noise so there’s a quieter journey on the highway. The dynamic and simplified tread design also looks good for those who want something sporty and stylish to complement their vehicle’s looks.

Of course, performance is also important and with its 150 years of experience in making tyres, BFGoodrich knows a lot about engineering the Advantage Touring to give good handling and braking in all conditions. The asymmetric tread design has rigid tread blocks and a shoulder that enhance handling responsiveness and control. The tread blocks are large and have deep grooves that are claimed to deliver superior braking performance in both wet and dry road conditions.

An interlocking band technology reduces friction and heat, which helps in reducing fuel consumption. Tyre life can also be improved with the optimized contact patch specifically designed for markets with severe heat conditions.

The Advantage Touring is available in sizes to cover more than 85% of the market in the 13-inch to 20-inch range, with a total of 67 dimensions. Depending on the tyre size, the speed ratings are H, T or V. Priced from RM200 to RM900, each new tyre purchased from an authorised dealer comes with a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty as well.

Michelin Malaysia introduces BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tyre for SUVs and pick-up trucks

will.i.am to reveal one-off Mercedes-AMG sportscar at Miami F1 Grand Prix this weekend

will.i.am, well known for his association with the Black Eyed Peas which he also founded, is more than just a singer and musician. Today, he’s a tech entrepreneur, philanthropist and was even chosen as the TIME 100 IMPACT Award winner. Recently, he’s been working on a special project with Mercedes-AMG under strict secrecy which will culminate with the presentation of the WILL.I.AMG at the Miami F1 Grand Prix this weekend.

It’s also the sixth collaboration that he is having with West Coast Customs, a customisation outfit in California, to create the one-off vehicle for the project which is known as ‘The Flip – – Innovation for Purpose’. The Flip is intended to give more students from disadvantaged communities access to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) education in order to be equipped with the skills required for future-focused jobs and to invent new technologies.

“I grew up in a ghetto. I grew up with hip hop. I watched legendary hip hop artist rap about Mercedes, so it was always a dream to own a Mercedes. For a lot of inner-city kids, owning a Mercedes is a symbol of progress and advancing out of struggle,” explained will.i.am. “Now I’ve reached my goal and pushed even higher by re-imagining and creating my own vision of an AMG model. But I didn’t touch the engine, because AMG really does make the best engines. The story of the founders of AMG truly inspires me and it is energizing to collaborate with like-minded people who also seek continuous improvement.”

Inspired by the Mercedes star logo and the vehicle sound, will.i.am created a bear-like face icon, which has been dubbed ‘BEAR WITNESS’. This icon is also the focal point of the BEAR WITNESS collection that features limited-edition apparel and accessories available at the Mercedes-AMG Experience Centre in Miami and online.

The elaborate conversion and construction of this car, based on Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, has been captured in an extensive 6‑part documentary series, ‘DRIVE’ that will sneak preview at the May 5 reveal event.

All the activities surrounding this one-of-a-kind vehicle influenced by design elements of the G-Class and the legendary SLS Gullwing will benefit will.i.am’s i.am/Angel Foundation to help build a STEAM-ready talent pool that will lift families and communities out of poverty.

Mercedes-AMG is supporting this project because it also fulfils a lifelong dream of 47-year old will.i.am: he is a car guy through and through and a Mercedes-AMG enthusiast who has always dreamed of making his personal Mercedes-AMG vehicle a reality.

Limited-edition Maybach by Virgil Abloh unveiled

Ferrari reveals SP48 Unica designed specially for just one customer

Ferrari’s Special Projects programme creates unique models which have a design so exclusive that each one can be considered a ‘One-Off’. Each project originates from an idea put forward by the customer and is then developed with a team of designers from Ferrari’s Styling Centre. The entire process can last for more than a year on average, during which time the customers closely assesses the design and verification phases.

Customers are, of course, entitled to privacy and their creation may never be shown to the public but some may be agreeable and we get to see a unique one-off Ferrari. The latest is the SP48 Unica revealed today and designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre. The 2-seater sports berlinetta sits on the F8 Tributo platform, with its taut lines and aggressive stance making it instantly recognisable with respect to the original model.

Also unmistakable is the arrow-shaped front profile; central to achieving this effect was the redesign of the headlights and the subsequent relocation of the brake air intakes.

A pivotal aspect of the design of this unique new car is the extensive use of procedural-parametric modelling techniques and 3D prototyping (additive manufacturing) which enabled the designers and engineers to completely redesign the front grille and engine air intakes. This advanced production process, ideal for low-volume items, resulted in perfect 3D grilles that seem carved from a solid volume creating a sense of seamless continuity and dynamic fluidity.

The procedural graphic solutions adopted on the bodywork dialogue directly with the grilles and influence the SP48 Unica’s overall design. Here, the transition from black – which includes the windows, roof and engine cover – to the body colour is especially clear.

The striking visor effect of the front is further heightened by the reduction in the size of the side windows and the elimination of the rear screen. This highlights the powerful muscularity of the SP48 Unica, giving the impression of being sculpted from a single block of metal.

Looking down on the car, the central section of the roof is emphasised. A graphic representation of the air intakes is set into the rear part of the carbonfibre engine cover before the rear wing. This angle allows the viewer to appreciate the styling research that went into the car and reveals the sophisticated interplay of symmetries and intersecting lines created by its forms.

The SP48 Unica’s thermal-fluid-dynamic design has been honed and perfected to guarantee it satisfies all cooling requirements in addition to delivering a different aerodynamic balance. The biggest changes compared to the F8 Tributo’s styling include the air intakes for cooling flows for the engine on the front bumper and beneath the rear spoiler. Each has a deep procedural grille, every section of which is optimally angled to maximise the amount of air passing through.

The car’s configuration also allowed the engineers to locate an intercooler intake immediately behind the side windows, which in turn enabled them to reduce the dimension of the intakes on the flanks. The longer rear overhang reduces suction from the roof area, boosting rear downforce.

The cabin retains the F8 Tributo’s technical identity – excluding the rear screen – and to reflect the car’s personality, specially developed black laser-perforated Alcantara is used on the seats and most of the cabin trim. Beneath are glimpses of iridescent reddish-orange fabric that match the exterior colour.

The motif picks up the hexagonal motif of the grilles and the procedural livery on the roof, creating an appealing continuity between the car’s interior and exterior. In the cockpit, the eye is immediately drawn to the polished sill covers with the same laser-embossed hexagonal motif. Matte carbonfibre creates a sense of technicality and exclusivity, complemented by the Grigio Canna di Fucile accents.