Category: CARS

Daniel Ricciardo drives a Ford SuperVan for the F1 Grand Prix

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In a thrilling display of innovation and speed, the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2024 commenced in Melbourne on Thursday, 21 March 2024, with Ford Australia taking centre stage. The event was electrified by the Ford Performance SuperVan 4.2, a record-breaking, all-electric van as it tore through the Albert Park Circuit under the expert control of Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Driver, Daniel Ricciardo. This marked a significant moment as Ricciardo expertly handled the 2,000hp beast, showcasing its capabilities on one of Australia’s most challenging race tracks. The SuperVan 4.2, a highlight of Ford Performance’s EV Demonstrator Program, has been buzzing through Australian motorsport events for the past month, leaving its mark with an unparalleled performance at Bathurst’s Mount Panorama and the Adelaide Motorsport Festival. Its astonishing lap at Bathurst, clocking in at 1:56.3247, set records as the fastest lap by a closed-wheel vehicle, an electric vehicle, and a commercial vehicle. This feat is especially noteworthy considering the SuperVan 4.2, based on the Ford E-Transit, significantly deviates from traditional racing vehicles. Ford Performance’s initiative with the SuperVan 4.2 in Australia goes beyond mere spectacle; it spearheads the development and testing of technologies destined for future road cars. Motorsport’s rigours provide the perfect testbed for new parts and technology, facilitating their refinement for eventual consumer use. The program also aligns with Australia’s high demand for performance cars, allowing Ford to meet and surpass Australian expectations with their future electric vehicles.

Drive a racing car this Melbourne Grand Prix

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In a thrilling celebration of its partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 Racing Team, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey is set to ignite the streets of Melbourne with an exclusive and exhilarating experience. From Friday 22 to Sunday 24 March, ‘Jack’s Rides’ will provide fans with the opportunity to take a complimentary adrenaline-fueled drive in a pair of luxury supercars, creating an unforgettable fusion of speed, luxury, and excitement. The heart-pumping action will commence from the city to South Melbourne and back, catering to both the fortunate ticket holders immersing themselves at Albert Park and enthusiasts seeking to revel in the electrifying energy of the circuit off-track. Enthusiasts looking to make a grand entrance on race day can book a ride from 12:00 pm each day. The sleek supercars will whisk fans in pairs from the Next Hotel on Little Collins Street, at the core of the city, to the iconic Golden Gate Hotel in South Melbourne – just a stone’s throw away from the Albert Park entrance. For those eager to extend the thrill into the night, an option to add an electrifying evening ride will be available until 10:00 pm each night. Fans can choose to rev their engines towards popular hotspots like George on Collins or the city’s largest rooftop bar, Good Heavens, from the Golden Gate Hotel. To secure a ride, fans can register their names with the Jack’s Host at the entrance of the designated venues. As an added treat, each ride will culminate with a complimentary Jack Daniel’s cocktail waiting… Read More

How to overcome driving anxiety

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Are you one of the many Australians feeling the pangs of anxiety behind the wheel? Surveys reveal that up to 84% of individuals in Australia experience anxiety while driving. In Melbourne, studies from Monash University project that only half of the eligible young population will obtain their driver’s license by 2025, marking a significant shift in driving trends. Since 2000, the rates of driver’s licenses have been on a decline in Victoria, reflecting a changing landscape of mobility and personal choices. Understanding the Roadblocks Various reasons contribute to the reluctance to learn driving, ranging from resource constraints and mental health challenges to self-doubt and physical disabilities. In response to these challenges, Toyota Australia has initiated the Find Your Drive program. This groundbreaking initiative enlists the expertise of driving instructors and psychologists to guide four individuals through adversity and empower them to learn driving. The program has come to life through a compelling online content series featuring three captivating documentaries, offering an intimate look into the transformative journey of the participants. You can experience these empowering stories right here. Navigating the Path Forward To support those hesitant about obtaining their driver’s license, psychologist and expert on driver anxiety, Merryn Snare has outlined three effective strategies to overcome these obstacles: Join the Movement For more information on the impactful Find Your Drive program, explore the comprehensive media release and captivating images of the campaign. Additionally, delve into further insights through a headshot of Merryn, the driving force behind these empowering strategies. Toyota invites you to embark on… Read More

Ford Ranger new champion of utes

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When it comes to towing, camping, and off-roading, Aussies know what they need in a vehicle. That’s why the Ford Ranger has become a favorite among adventurers and hardworking individuals alike. Since its debut in 2011, the Ranger has revolutionized the ute segment on a global scale. It has transformed from being just a work vehicle into a versatile companion that can handle any task thrown its way. “We see our customers take it to the most extreme off-road locations and then see them parking in tight city streets and unloading their groceries and kids. A Ranger is a do-everything, go-everywhere vehicle,” says Birkic, a representative from Ford. Exciting news has recently emerged from Ford: the Ranger will soon be available as a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), set to arrive in early 2025. This means that the Ranger PHEV can be driven in pure electric mode for over 45 kilometers without using any fuel or producing tailpipe emissions. Not only will this help customers save at the pump, but it also aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation options. With more than half of Ranger customers traveling 40 kilometers or less per day, they will be able to complete their average daily commute on electric power alone. In addition to its impressive electric capabilities, the Ranger PHEV will feature the Pro Power Onboard function. This innovative feature allows tradies to power their tools directly from the vehicle, eliminating the need for separate generators. Furthermore, it enables campers to light up their campsites when venturing off-road,… Read More

Experience the sleekness and built-in AI of the Chery OMODA 5

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The Chery OMODA 5, a new entrant in the Australian auto market, is a car that demands attention. From its unique, aerodynamic shape that reduces drag and improves handling, to its feature-packed design, the OMODA 5 is a car that promises to redefine what an SUV can offer. Chery, a brand already renowned in China, is looking to make a significant impact in the Australian market with a customer-centric approach. This is evident in the 7-year warranty and roadside assistance they offer along with the OMODA 5. The OMODA 5 is a spacious SUV, measuring 4400mm in length, 1830mm in width, and 1588mm in height, built to accommodate your family’s needs. It is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine, delivering a perfect blend of performance and efficiency. The 50-litre fuel tank accepts cost-effective 91RON fuel, making the OMODA 5 an economical choice for long drives. Chery has ensured that the OMODA 5 is not just a practical choice but also a luxurious one. Features such as 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, remote engine start, and a noise-reduction windshield enhance the driving experience. The car’s interior boasts synthetic leather seats, twin-zone climate control, and a six-way power-adjust driver’s seat. Chery has also put a significant focus on technology with a twin-screen digital dash, ensuring you stay connected on the move. The 10.25-inch central infotainment screen delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Chery’s “Hello Chery” voice-control feature allows drivers to operate key functions without taking their hands off the wheel, enhancing safety and convenience. One of… Read More

Unleash your inner daredevil with the all-new 2023 Toyota GR Corolla

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While some cars simply weather the storm, the all-new 2023 Toyota GR Corolla embraces it with unrivaled excitement. This rip-roaring daredevil is the rowdiest member of the GR family, making it every gearhead’s dream come true. With its exclusively manual transmission and rally-built hot hatch design, this track-tested beast is ready to take on the road while still being suitable for running errands. Buckle up and get ready for the most thrilling ride of your life. Passion is what fuels innovation, and at Gazoo Racing (GR), Toyota’s global motorsports division, our passion for motorsports takes us to new heights. By challenging ourselves on the race track, we continuously learn and improve. It is this dedication to growth that led us to develop the GR Corolla, a rallying beast born to be driven. Toyota is absolutely ecstatic to welcome this genuine hot hatch to the rest of the unmistakable GR lineup, offering sports cars for the everyday driver. Engineered to compete in the World Rally Championship, the GR Corolla is designed to deliver peak motorsports performance. Developed at the same Motomachi plant as the GR Yaris, you can be certain that this car is built to help you redefine your limits. Its all-weather capable GR-FOUR AWD system distributes vigorous power to your front and rear wheels, ensuring ultimate traction. With three selectable power settings – Street Mode, Touring Mode, and Track Mode – you have the flexibility to transform your driving experience based on the thrills you seek. And if that’s not enough, the available dual… Read More

Ford Australia kicks off countdown to 60 years of Mustang

Ford Mustang

In anticipation of the iconic Ford Mustang’s 60th anniversary in 2024, Ford Australia has announced the launch of the seventh-generation Ford Mustang, promising a completely reimagined driving experience. This new lineup will include the Dark Horse Special Edition, the first new Mustang performance nameplate in 21 years, which features a sinister yet premium styling. With only 1,000 units headed for Australia, the Dark Horse Special Edition will be priced at $103,002 Manufacturer List Price (MLP). Over the past 10 years, Mustang has been the best-selling sports car in the world, according to Ford analysis of registration data from S&P Global Mobility. In Australia, this popularity is evidenced by Mustang’s consistent lead in the sports car segment every year since its introduction in 2015. Ford Australia’s President and CEO, Andrew Birkic, expressed his excitement about bringing the seventh-generation Ford Mustang to Australia, stating, “The Mustang has always been a favourite among Australian drivers, and the new model takes the experience to a whole new level.” The new Mustang combines edgy, timeless design with a heart-pumping driving experience that has made it a global phenomenon. The modern chiseled look of the seventh-generation model, paired with its heritage-inspired design, aims to appeal to the broadest Mustang customer base yet. The seventh-generation Mustang’s most technologically advanced, driver-centric cockpit ever, features a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster that can be customized to display different animated designs and new drive-mode-dependent visuals. This digital instrument cluster flows seamlessly into a 13.2-inch SYNC®?4 centre stack behind the same piece of integrated glass, angled towards… Read More

Ford’s behind-the-scenes journey with The Inside Scoop

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In a move that is as innovative as it is engaging, Ford has launched a new video series titled “The Inside Scoop”. This series is an open door into the world of Ford, giving viewers an exclusive look at the people and processes that bring their beloved vehicles to life. The Inside Scoop is not just about showcasing the final product; it’s about the journey. It’s about the engineers who pour their expertise into creating cutting-edge technologies, the designers who turn visions into reality, and the many others whose dedication and hard work contribute to every Ford vehicle. The first episode dives deep into the world of the Ranger Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), with a focus on the Australian market. Rob Sharples, the chief engineer behind this project, is our guide through this fascinating process. With over 35 years of experience in engineering, Sharples provides invaluable insights into the changing landscape of the automotive industry. “The automotive landscape is changing and evolving faster than it ever has before,” says Sharples. “The Ranger Plug-In Hybrid is an example of just how fast and how hard Ford is working to meet the needs of new car buyers.” This series promises to be a treasure trove of information and entertainment for car enthusiasts, tech geeks, and anyone curious about the inner workings of one of the world’s leading automobile companies. The Inside Scoop will feature interviews with experts from various fields, each contributing to the creation of Ford’s vehicles and services. The Inside Scoop is a celebration of ingenuity,… Read More

Embracing the Future: Extraordinary Luxury Meets Innovation at LANDMARK by Lexus

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As the confluence of Japanese and Australian landscapes and sensibilities merge, the much-anticipated LANDMARK by Lexus returns to the famed Flemington Racecourse in 2023. This exclusive pavilion, characterised by its sophisticated and elegant design, offers not just the best view of the Flemington Racecourse front straight, but also an array of culinary delights, entertainment, and the warm hospitality synonymous with the Japanese tradition of omotenashi. In its sixth year as the Principal Partner of the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), Lexus Australia continues its proud tradition of offering unique experiences, showcasing the melding of opulence and elegance with sustainability and organic production. This year, LANDMARK by Lexus pays tribute to Takumi craftsmanship, under the theme ‘Close to the Source’, celebrating the beauty and rarity of natural materials and genuine ingredients. Koichi Takada Architects have exclusively designed the LANDMARK by Lexus exterior, making a grand statement with the pavilion’s awnings fusing Japanese and Australian landscapes. The structure naturally integrates the best of both vistas, with the terraced awnings echoing the curvature of rice fields and softening the angular lines of the base building. Upon entering, guests of LANDMARK by Lexus are greeted by the Lexus Electrified Sport, a stunning futuristic sports car making its Australian debut. It perfectly embodies modern luxury, with pure materials crafted into works of art, set against striking floral arrangements. Inside, the pavilion consists of three distinct levels, each showcasing a synergy of sustainability and exceptional design. Australian restaurateur, Luke Mangan, is the culinary maestro behind the Lexus x Luke Mangan dining experience,… Read More

Ford’s Ranger plug-in hybrid: the future of power and performance

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It’s time to supercharge your adventures with Ford’s new Ranger Plug-in Hybrid. This powerhouse of a vehicle is set to redefine the standards of power, performance, and sustainability in the pickup segment. The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is not just any ordinary vehicle — it’s a mobile power station on wheels! Equipped with Pro Power Onboard, this truck offers the unique ability to power tools and appliances by plugging them into outlets embedded in both the cargo bed and the cabin. Forget about lugging around noisy, bulky generators on your worksite or remote campsite. With the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid, you have on-demand electricity right at your fingertips, freeing up more cargo space for other gear and equipment. But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid also gives you the flexibility to decide how and when to use the EV battery power, thanks to its EV drive modes. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring rugged terrains, the selectable drive modes help optimize performance based on your driving conditions. And, let’s not forget about the proven four-wheel-drive capability that has made Ranger a favourite among off-road enthusiasts. Coupled with advanced driver safety and driver assist features, the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid ensures a safe and confident journey, no matter where the road takes you. “The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will help our customers move into an electrified future, with the confidence and capability that only Ranger can provide,” says Andrew Birkic, President and CEO of Ford Australia. “Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will join the Ford Australia line-up as… Read More