Your classic car is more than an investment. The car reflects your personality, lifestyle and is a part of your history. You want to protect that investment and keep the car in pristine condition, inside and out. A couple of blankets thrown over the body of the car does not guard against rust, rodents and rotted hoses. Protect that investment with one of the storage facilities specializing in classic cars. A good time to store a classic car is during long periods of inclement weather, such as winter or during the rainy season. Store the car when you are away from home for a month or more, such as an overseas deployment or job.

Cars that are only driven a few times a year should be stored in a place where damage cannot occur. Wash and detail the car, inside and out, before placing the automobile in storage. Heat and humidity damage the interior of a car. The exterior also suffers from the higher temperature and dampness. Store your classic car in an above-ground storage area that is cool and dry. The cooler temperatures keep away rodents that may gnaw at tires, the interior or exposed wires. Humidity causes mold growth and oxidation that a dry storage facility does not. Use a cotton sheet over the car if you must cover the vehicle. Plastic covers may draw moisture. Find a storage area that allows you to jack up the car, support the frame on blocks and store the tires during the storage period.

Remember to remove the battery and store it separately so there is still a charge at the end of the storage period. Seal the exhaust with a rag to keep rodents from nesting in the pipe. The fluids and gas should also be removed from the car for long storage periods. An unused side of your garage works well if you plan on doing any maintenance or restoration. You must still take precautions even when the car is stored at home. For instance, a cloth covering may cause people to place items on the car that could scratch or harm the finish of the car. A car stored too close to a tool bench or another vehicle may result in damage to the exterior. Storage facilities that offer climate controlled spaces or those places that specialize in classic car storage are best for keeping your car safe.

With the sheer number of cars on the roads today, and the large amount of time that people spend travelling road accidents are inevitable. Thankfully many accidents only leave minor scrapes and bruises, but no matter how minor you think your accident is, it is important to do the right things afterwards.

Car accidents are shocking, and so many people forget to follow correct procedure (changing insurance details, contacting the police etc.) until it is too late and the person who was responsible has driven away scot-free. This makes it crucial to have a plan of action clear in your mind so that you carry out the steps automatically if you are unfortunate enough to have an accident.

The most important thing to do is gather as much information as possible to assist any insurance claim and make it easier for your personal injury solicitors. If it is possible you should make a note of the time, date and exact location of the accident so it is clear in your mind and there can be no argument. The other thing is to take a note of the contact details – name, address, telephone number – of everybody who was involved, including drivers, passengers and pedestrians. If it is a company van you should also make a note of the employer, as these will be the ones who will be dealing with the claim. If you have the accident during your employment then you may be entitled to accident at work compensation.

It is also crucial to make note of every detail of the accident itself. Make sure you include every detail of all cars involved – colour, make, model, number plate and any other distinguishing feature – and the number of passengers. The conditions are also important, so include weather conditions, time of day, streetlights, and whether or not the other driver was using headlights or indicators. You should also make a note of all damage done to your car, and crucially all other cars involved, as you only want to be liable for damage done in that accident and not for any other repairs. Finally, remember the name and number of any police officers at the scene as these will be crucial in supporting any claims you make.

Of course, most importantly of all, you should include details of any injuries suffered by yourself and any passengers present. Again, include other parties involved as some are tempted to make false claims after walking out of an accident unscathed. Some injuries, however, take a while to materialise, so don’t be afraid to include these, particularly a back injury claim, when contacting your insurer.

Following these simple steps will ensure your insurance claim goes as smoothly as possible.

Is your business dependent on a fleet of vehicles?  Do you have a large number of vehicles for personal use? If so, are you sure you have the right level of insurance to protect your vehicles?

For commercial insurance, it is vital that you regularly audit your business and make sure you have the right insurance to protect your vehicles and those who are driving and maintaining them. Commercial fleet insurance is vital for ensuring you have appropriate cover for all your vehicles and also benefit fromeconomies of scale.

Driving great cars can be an exhilarating experience, and if you are lucky enough to own a number of personal vehicles, you will no doubt have an exceptional insurance bill!

Fleet insurance is specifically designed for commercial or private owners of three or more vehicles.  It is a comprehensive way to ensure your fleet of vehicles is protected.

Economies of scale
Insuring each individual vehicle would of course be an unnecessary administrative burden.  Not only that, but each vehicle would be insured on its own merit.  When you ensure a fleet of vehicles, naturally all vehicles are held under the same policy and underwriters ensure all the vehicles as a whole, and take in to account the full value of the vehicles and likelihood of damage.  So, by insuring the fleet as a whole, you are more likely to be offered a very cost effective deal when compared to individual quotes.

Dealing with claims swiftly
While all insurers will vary, business insurance covering a number of vehicles is often dealt with very quickly, particularly for large businesses where you often deal with a specifically focused claim handling team.  This makes good commercial sense for you and the insurer.

Approved repairers
Many insurers offer a tailored package to suit your needs, and this can often include handy benefits such as approved repairs, often at a discount with services across the UK and abroad.  This can be particularly useful for long haul divers and delivery businesses.

Insurance for windscreen damage
Again, another great benefit often included is cover for windscreen damage or replacement.  When you rely on your vehicles and drivers to get to their destinations on tight schedules, you need to know that windscreen damage can be dealt with swiftly and without any fuss.  You’ll often find a solid and reliable network of specialists is included in your insurance offer.

Make sure you research all available options and don’t forget to compare all the detail, insurance is a highly competitive market and you should check all the benefits (and the small print) thoroughly to ensure you get the best deal for your business.

The Porsche 918 Spyder is on the road: Porsche has taken the driving trials of the super sports car of the future a step further with completion of the initial prototypes. The 918 Spyder is planned for production at the end of September 2013, with the first customer deliveries currently scheduled for the United States late in 2013.

The prototypes, their camouflage harking back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars, signal the final touches to the 918 Spyder. The focus is on the interplay between the highly sophisticated individual drive components. The combination of combustion engine and two independent electric motors – one on the front axle and one in the drive line, acting on the rear wheels – poses completely new demands on the development of the operating strategies.

“They are therefore a critical component in this vehicle into which we have put all of our expertise and capacity for innovation,” said Wolfgang Hatz,, Member of the Executive Board Research and Development of Porsche AG. These operating strategies and the development of the software to go with them are one of Porsche’s core competences. Both of them have a major influence on the extreme driving fun to be had with the 918 Spyder and they make possible a unique combination of minimal fuel consumption and maximum performance. The initial results of the driving trials are in line with the high expectations placed on the 918 Spyder.

The super sports car is designed as a plug-in hybrid vehicle combining a high-performance combustion engine with cutting-edge electric motors for extraordinary performance: on the one hand, the dynamics of a racing machine boasting more than 770 hp, on the other hand, fuel consumption in the region of three litres per 100 kilometres. Moreover, Porsche is breaking yet more new ground with the technology demonstrator with spectacular solutions such as the full carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear-axle steering and the upward-venting “top pipes” exhaust system. In the process, the 918 Spyder is offering a glimpse of what Porsche Intelligent Performance may be capable of in future.

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is officially in the “11-second” club, as engineers recently turned an 11.93-second/116-mph quarter-mile elapsed time run in a showroom-stock Camaro ZL1 automatic. A Camaro ZL1 manual ran an 11.96-second ET at 117 mph.

Only a few other production vehicles can run the quarter-mile as quickly as the ZL1. Fewer yet can also run 0-60 in 4 seconds, reach a top speed of 184 mph and lap the famous Nürburgring in 7:41.27 – all with the street-legal, factory-issued components and no time-consuming equipment adjustments at the racetrack.

“The ZL1 is great at everything and we’re very proud of that,” said Tony Roma, Camaro ZL1 program engineering manager. “You can take it to the drag strip and run 11-second quarter-miles all day long. You can also take it to a road course, where it’s balanced, handles well, and does exactly what you want – including lapping Virginia International Raceway’s Grand Course in under three minutes – and yet the ZL1 is sophisticated enough to use as a daily driver. It’s a supercar you can drive every day.”

For perspective, the Camaro ZL1 is so quick that some drivers who experiment with “drag radial” tires or full racing slicks may find themselves going too quick for most NHRA-sanctioned racetracks, where a five-point roll bar is required for vehicles running 11.49 or quicker. The 11.93-second ET in a stock ZL1 tested by the engineers wore the factory-issued Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar G:2  tires developed specifically for it, putting the car only a scant 0.44-second away from that additional racing safety requirement.

Tuned for the drag strip

The original, special-order 1969 Camaro ZL1s are still revered for their legendary performance on the drag strip and Chevrolet was keenly aware that customers for the new, 21st century edition would undoubtedly test its straight-line mettle in quarter-mile increments.

The Camaro team re-engineered 30 percent of a Camaro 2SS to make the ZL1, including special modifications just for the drag strip.

“We know many of customers will take their ZL1 to the drag strip,” said Gordon Rojewski, driveline development engineer – and who is also an experienced drag racer and owner of a turbocharged, 920-horsepower street car. “Some may just go once, to experience the full potential of the 580-horsepower LSA engine. Others may be more serious, going every other weekend with a set of slicks in the trunk. As such, we set out to make sure the ZL1 would perform for them – on the first pass and on the 100th.”

For example, to withstand the heavy loads of repeated hard launches, the ZL1 features a stout 9.9-inch rear differential mounted in a robust cast iron center section. It also features a standard differential cooler that can lower the temperature by 100 degrees F for improved performance and longevity.

The ZL1 also features asymmetrical half-shafts: a 60mm hollow shaft on the right and a 33mm solid shaft on the left. The different torsional stiffness rates of the shafts work in conjunction with the limited-slip differential to minimize the chance of wheel hop at launch. Engineers modified the rear suspension, as well, to accommodate an 18-inch wheel, for owners who want to fit a set of drag-radials with taller sidewalls to improve their ETs.

Even the ZL1’s exclusive Performance Traction Management (PTM) was tuned for the drag-strip. It integrates third-generation Magnetic Ride Control, launch control, traction control, electronic stability control and electric power steering response to enhance performance. Launch control (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best-possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 1,000 times per second to maximize the available traction.

Mode 5 of launch control is uniquely calibrated for drag strips that use VHT or similar traction-enhancing compounds on the starting line. In addition to validating the system for the stock tires, engineers also tested it with 18- and 20-inch racing-type drag radial tires in anticipation of the specialty tires many drivers will use at the track. Drag radials are very soft and provide nearly the traction of a full racing slick, allowing the car to launch at a higher rpm without wheel spin, which can translate into an even quicker ET.

Proven with 1,000 hard launch tests

To test the chassis and suspension components to ensure they were up to repeated hard-start launches typical at the drag strip, engineers subjected the ZL1 to the grueling “Woodward Avenue Schedule” at the GM Milford Proving Ground.

Named for the famous cruising route that cuts north through Detroit’s suburbs and has been the venue for untold thousands of unofficial launch capability demonstrations since the 1960s, each test cycle is a hard-launch, standing-start drag race up to 100 mph. The ZL1 was subjected to 1,000 test cycles before its driveline was stamped “approved”.

“The Woodward Avenue Schedule was a really brutal test, but it told us the Camaro ZL1 would live up to the way we knew our customers would drive it on the track,” said Rojewski.

The Camaro ZL1 is on sale now with a suggested retail price of $54,995 – including a $900 destination charge. The 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission includes TapShift control and is a $1,185 option. The Camaro ZL1 convertible goes on sale this summer.

The BMW X1 is setting to make its US market debut armed with state-of-the-art powertrain technology, innovative features, selective design modifications and extensive interior refinements. The new 2013 BMW X1 will arrive in authorized BMW Centers in the fall of 2012 starting at an MSRP of $31,545.

The X1 has proven to be highly successful, with sales having already exceeded 275,000. As has been the case with other models before it, the BMW X1 finds itself in a competitive market segment that it virtually spawned.  Unlike other BMW SAVs, X1s destined for the US will be built in BMW’s Leipzig, Germany plant. The popularity of the X1 around the globe has proven so great that X1s for the Chinese market will now be built in a newly opened plant at Tiexi in Shenyang Province.

The arrival of the BMW X1 to the US coincides with an update that includes exterior and interior refinements as well as a host of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies.  All models feature Brake Energy Regeneration while the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models also benefit from Auto Start/Stop and ECO PRO mode to further reduce fuel consumption.

Another element of the update is the availability of BMW Lines for the first time in an SAV, as an alternative to the base trim level. Both the BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line offer exclusive design and equipment features. The xLine emphasizes the robust versatility of the new BMW X1 while the Sport Line accentuates its performance and handling. For enthusiasts who want to accentuate the sporting character of their X1 even further, an M Sport Package is also available.

Design: New touches highlight its elegance, versatility and sportiness.

Typical BMW proportions, vibrant surfaces and signature BMW X model design cues shape the appearance of the X1. A sweeping hood, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment emphasize its dynamic talent, while attractive light and shade effects hint at its inherent agility. The versatility and ruggedness of a BMW X model are reflected in elements such as the black bordering at the lower edge of the body and the muscular wheel arches.

Above all, the new BMW X1 conveys even more strikingly the powerful stance that distinguishes BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicles. In the case of the X1, the look reflects the unique combination of the elevated seating position and flexible utility of an SAV with the driving dynamics of a BMW sports sedan.

In addition to the inserts in the front and rear fascia and the special side skirt covers, the circular foglamps positioned under the headlights add to the hallmark features of a BMW X model. Beyond this, the new BMW X1 boasts attractive touches of sporting luxury.

Front view: Even more details in the style of a BMW X model.

When viewed from the front, the powerful stance of the new BMW X1 on the road is immediately evident. The path of the car’s lines, which converge along the sides of the BMW kidney grille, follows the V-shaped contours of the hood, forging downwards and outwards in the lower section of the bumper to create the sweeping “X” familiar from the X1’s larger siblings. The striking lines go hand in hand with a detailed execution of the body’s surface styling, signaling a sporty character. The foglamps are now level with an extra crease line that forms a discreet scoop along the upper edge of the lights and continues into the fenders. Newly designed headlights afford a detailed view of the car’s advanced light technology. In the upper area, a chrome accent strip now cuts across the top of the twin round headlights, while an LED accent light – included as part of the optional xenon light package – ensures the classic BMW focused look. The available xenon headlights also feature LED light rings for the daytime running lights.

Side view: Characteristic proportions, new exterior mirrors.

The character line that rises steadily to the rear of the car, an additional line extending the contours of the side glass graphic as it runs rearwards, and powerfully flared wheel arches allow the BMW X1 to project a very distinctive profile. The pronounced side skirts are a signature feature of BMW X models, while the directional indicators are now integrated into the exterior mirrors.

Rear view: Focused emphasis on a wide and powerful stance.

The premium feel of the new BMW X1 is also underlined at the rear by the new subdivision of fascia, bumper and undertray. Repositioned reflectors are now bordered by surfaces painted in body color. As a result, the black plastic elements are slimmer, while the silver-colored undertray has a more striking surface structure. Furthermore, the contours of the LED taillights now flow harmoniously into the line of the tailgate handle. A stronger emphasis on the horizontal lines gives the X1 both a robust and sporty appearance.

Interior: Precise lines, high-quality materials, sophisticated color scheme.

The modifications to the design of the new BMW X1 interior create an even more vivid showcase of the sporty driving pleasure and cutting-edge versatility. The side of the center console, angled towards the driver, is now shallower and boasts a particularly high-grade surface quality. This highlights the driver-focused principle of the cockpit design. The panel for the sound and climate system controls now has a high-gloss black surface to match the air vent surround.

The new BMW X1 comes with a storage compartment in the center of the instrument panel. In vehicles with the optional navigation system, this houses the central Control Display for the iDrive operating system. Chrome accents on the side surrounds of the onboard monitor highlight this feature. High-quality electroplated surrounds for the gearshift lever and the center console cup holder as well as a chrome clip on the headlight switch add the finishing touches to the interior’s exclusive ambience.

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology: Available in four or six-cylinder form.

The BMW X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i feature BMW’s newest 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine (N20).  This dynamic and efficient engine delivers maximum power of 240 hp at 5,000 rpm while the maximum torque of 260 lb-ft is developed at just 1,250 rpm and remains constant up to 4,800 rpm. It is mated to BMW’s latest 8-speed Steptronic automatic. This combination powers the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i from 0-60 mph in 6.2 and 6.3 seconds respectively. This level of responsiveness is matched with impressive efficiency.  Preliminary EPA mileage estimates are 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway/27 mpg combined for the X1 sDrive28i while the AWD X1 xDrive28i has preliminary EPA estimates of 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined.

This engine is the most powerful in a new generation of 4-cylinder engines designed in accordance with the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, which aims to combine increased driving enjoyment with reduced fuel consumption and emissions. In technical terms, this 4-cylinder engine is modeled on the current multi-award-winning inline 6-cylinder with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (N55), which is the benchmark in its class for dynamic power delivery and impressive efficiency. This world-exclusive technology combines High Precision Direct Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing with twin-scroll turbocharging.

VALVETRONIC, Double-Vanos and High Precision Direct Injection.

The combination of a high power output and a simultaneous reduction in emissions is achieved by VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing. The latest generation of the VALVETRONIC system features a faster-acting, optimized stepper motor with integrated sensor. Seamlessly variable control of intake valve lift dispenses with the need for a throttle butterfly. Instead, the air mass is controlled inside the engine, resulting in faster response. At the same time, pumping losses have been reduced to a minimum.

The excellent efficiency is also down to the High Precision Direct Injection system. Centrally positioned between the valves, solenoid injectors precisely control the supply of fuel. The fuel is injected very close to the spark plug, with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar (2900 psi), resulting in clean and homogeneous combustion. The cooling effect of the directly injected fuel also results in a higher compression ratio than on port injection engines, bringing further efficiency improvements.

X1 xDrive35i: Exclusive to the North American market – the most dynamic X1 of all

Enthusiasts in North America will have access to the most dynamic model in the X1 line, the X1 xDrive35i featuring, BMW’s award-winning 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine (N55). The N55 has been setting standards from the start, as the pioneer of a new generation of engines in which BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing plus a twin scroll turbo made its debut. It will be mated to a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

With a maximum power rating of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, the 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder reflects the sporty personality of this X1 variant and helps it deliver unparalleled performance. And the high peak torque of 300 lb-ft, on stream between 1,200 and 5,000 rpm, ensures that the power is effortlessly and instantly delivered.

In order maximize available traction so as to take full advantage of its performance potential,  the X1 xDrive35i, as the name implies, will be offered exclusively with xDrive all-wheel drive. As a result, the new BMW xDrive35i can show off its prowess with a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of just 5.3 seconds. EPA mileage estimates for this model are 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway/
21 mpg combined.

Wide-ranging BMW EfficientDynamics technology, ECO PRO mode marks its debut in the BMW X1.

In line with the enhanced engines and transmissions, the new BMW X1 includes a range of technologies that boast optimized efficiency. All model variants come equipped with Brake Energy Regeneration.

An ECO PRO mode and the Auto Start-Stop function are available in the new BMW X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models. ECO PRO provides efficiency-optimized driving with targeted adjustments to the accelerator mapping and the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission. Moreover, the output of electrically operated functions such as the seat heating, climate control system and exterior mirror heating are regulated to ensure highly efficient energy management. A special display informs the driver of the extra range gleaned through these measures.

BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system: Intelligent, fast and precise for enhanced driving pleasure.

Available with both powertrains, the new BMW X1 can transfer power to the road with the help of BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch allows the system to vary power between the front and rear wheels, thereby guaranteeing maximum traction, the highest possible safety, outstanding handling and optimal power development regardless of weather or road conditions.

By virtue of being integrated with Dynamic Stability Control, the xDrive control system is able to analyze every driving situation with great precision. It can thus counteract any tendency towards oversteer or understeer by distributing power as required before the driver is even aware of the need.

What’s more, the collaboration between xDrive and DSC enables Hill Descent Control for safe passage down an incline at an automatically regulated speed.

As a means of sharpening the handling character, the X1 xDrive28i and xDrive35i get Performance Control as part of the available M Sport Package. Performance Control helps the X1 xDrive35i maintain a more neutral handling character by adjusting the xDrive torque split to 20% front/80% rear in steady state cornering. Performance Control can also apply the inside rear brake while also applying a little more power to the outside wheel (to compensate for the additional drag of the brake) in order to help rotate the vehicle.

New for the BMW X1: The BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line.

BMW Lines are available for all models, allowing drivers to tailor their new BMW X1 with individual style based on their personal preferences. The BMW xLine allows the sturdy versatility of the sub-compact BMW X model to be emphasized. It includes undertray elements for the front and rear fascias, side skirt covers, air intake and kidney grille slats in Titanium Silver matt finish, as well as exclusive 18-inch alloys in Y-spoke design. The distinctive charisma of the new BMW X1 is also reflected in the interior, starting with entry strips bearing the lettering “BMW xLine”, a leather-wrapped multifunction sports steering wheel, as well as exclusive interior trim strips in Dark Copper high-gloss and floor mats with color-matched piping. In conjunction with the BMW xLine, optional Nevada leather upholstery is available, with the exclusive color shades Terra and Oyster which are also used on the door trim panels and the lower section of the dashboard. The head rests feature a distinctive embossed “X”. As an additional option, interior trim in Fineline Bay matt fine wood finish is available exclusively in combination with the BMW xLine.

The stand-out agility and dynamics of the new BMW X1 within the competitive environment can also be highlighted through exclusive and meticulously matched design and equipment features. Cue the BMW Sport Line, which features a front and rear undertray, side skirt covers, air intakes and kidney grille slats in Black high-gloss, tailpipe finishers in Black Chrome, exclusive 18-inch double-spoke light alloys, and entry strips with “BMW Sport” lettering. In the interior, sport seats with coral red accents, a sports leather steering wheel and gear selector lever with red stitching, interior trim in Black high-gloss finish and floor mats with red piping all contribute to an ambience that is explicitly geared to intensive driving pleasure. The leather sports seats are available in a choice of two colors, while interior trim strips in aluminum with accent line are an optional exclusive to the BMW Sport Line.

Both BMW Lines are offered as an alternative to the entry-level version. An M Sport package is also available as an option for the new BMW X1.

Solid body structure, comprehensive safety equipment.

Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X1 boasts a body with high torsional stiffness which, thanks to intelligent lightweight design, pairs extreme robustness with optimized weight. In the interests of passive safety, the impact forces in the event of an accident are diverted along several load paths, absorbed by precisely defined deformation zones and thus kept away from the stable passenger cell.

As well as front and side airbags for the front seats, standard interior equipment includes side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch limiters and belt latch tensioners in the front and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear. All restraint systems are controlled by a central electronic system. Immediately after its market launch, the BMW X1 was awarded the maximum 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test.

Interior allows diverse uses with modern functionality.

The new BMW X1 also showcases its versatility when it comes to carrying stuff. The rear seatback can be split 40:20:40, with the three sections folding down individually or jointly according to need and can be adjusted in ten stages. The angle of tilt for the rear-seat backrest ranges from 31° – a particularly comfortable angle for passengers – all the way to a near-vertical cargo position of 1°. This facility alone means the luggage space can vary between 12.7 cubic feet (360 liters) and 17.0 cu.ft (480 liters), with a capacity of 14.8 cu. ft. (420 liters), according to European measure, when the rear seatback is in its normal position. Folding all three seat elements down fully creates a virtually flat cargo floor with a loading capacity of 47.7 cu. ft. (1,350 liters), again according to European measure. SAE volume measures are not yet available but, either way, these numbers indicate a surprising amount of cargo space for a vehicle of this size.

Two 46-inch golf bags can be stowed widthways or, after folding down the central section of the seatback, lengthwise. The through-loading aperture between the outer rear seats can also be used for two snowboards or four pairs of skis. The passenger compartment offers a wide range of storage spaces and compartments of various sizes, as well as generously sized door pockets. Additional transportation potential is opened up by roof rails and a storage compartment package.

Premium character thanks to comprehensive standard equipment and high-grade options.

The range of standard equipment on the new BMW X1 guarantees driving enjoyment and comfort at a premium level. The scope includes  automatic climate control, electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, foglamps, LED taillights, chrome tailpipe finishers, a multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, an onboard computer, and a hi-fi sound system with CD player, AUX-IN connection, HD radio and a two-line display showing computer data, telephone numbers and music track titles. Other standard features include roof rails, Rain Sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlights.

Many features are standard equipment of the X1 xDrive35i which are also available on the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i. These include the panoramic glass sunroof, electrically adjusted front seats, Servotronic steering, Adaptive Xenon Headlights and automatic high beams.

The range of optional extras for all models includes, among other features, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and Sirius/XM satellite radio with a one-year subscription, as well Chrome-line exterior trim.

BMW ConnectedDrive, meanwhile, offers a wide choice of options for optimizing the convenience, safety and infotainment functions of the car.

Accurate and safe maneuvering is facilitated by the Driver Assistance Package which includes Park Distance Control and the rear-view camera, which relays its images live to the Control Display of the iDrive operating system.

BMW Assist, a globally unique mobility service, comprises among other features a telephone information service and the enhanced Automatic Collision Notification function with automatic detection of the vehicle location. BMW Assist with Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity is part of the Technology Package which also includes the on-board navigation system.

Other innovative technologies allow the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones as well as music players, including the use of Internet-based services. The Apps option enables iPhone users, among other things, to receive Internet radio stations and to display Facebook and Twitter posts on the onboard monitor. With BMW Apps, iPhone users can access and listen to music streaming services like Pandora and MOG.

Other available packages include the Cold Weather Package, Lighting Package and Premium Package. The Driver Assistance Package, Premium Package and Technology Package may be order together as the Ultimate Package.

The M Sport Package is available for all models.  It consists of a Sport Suspension and 18-inch M Double-spoke wheels with mixed-sized performance tires with an available upgrade to 19-inch wheels. Interior touches include Sport Seats, an M Sport Steering Wheel, Dark Aluminum or Light Fineline Wood trim and an anthracite headliner. Exterior touches include M Aero kit, Shadowline trim, and high-gloss roof rails. The all-wheel drive X1 xDrive28i and xDrive35i models also get Performance Control as part of the package.

The BMW X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i will retail for $31,545 and $33,245 respectively while the X1 xDrive35i will start at $39,345. All prices include $895 Destination and Handling.

Collecting classic cars is a hobby that few people have the joy of achieving, but for owners, simply purchasing the vehicle is just the beginning. Aside from purchasing auto insurance for their vehicle, enthusiasts find themselves spending considerable amounts of time and money on their collection to ensure it remains in pristine condition.

However, the government is considering making the ownership of classic cars much easier through a series of proposals aimed at reducing red tape.

What are the proposed changes?

The main alteration to the law on classic cars would be that they are no longer required to undergo an MoT test. Statistics suggest that classic vehicles are involved in far fewer accidents than their newer counterparts, leading the government to consider whether MoTs are totally necessary. In fact, roads minister Mike Penning has even gone as far as to say that the current requirement goes above and beyond what is required in European legislation.

Should the change come into force, any car manufactured before 1960 would be exempt, therefore reducing costs for owners. Nonetheless, they would still be required to make sure their car is roadworthy and safe.

Mr Penning commented: “Owners of classic cars and motorbikes are enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well – they don’t need to be told to look after them, they’re out there every weekend checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.”

How can I help keep my classic car pristine?

Once classic car enthusiasts have got their hands on their dream vehicle, the real work begins. There are various theories on how to keep the motors in the best condition possible, but experts often highlight certain key areas time and time again.

Paintwork

The first thing anyone sees when they come into contact with a car is its paintwork. Experts emphasise the importance of using proper washing tools, as these will help prevent lasting damage. Microfibre cloths are generally considered the best options, which should be used alongside cleaning products designed especially for use on vehicles.

Washing a car is important, but the drying process is just as essential. Leaving water marks on the paintwork can lead to staining over time, so using a soft cloth to remove any excess moisture will help save all sorts of difficulties later on.

Electrical components

Giving the car a once over after purchase is highly important, as this will help identify any electrical components that are not in full working order. One of the first things to check is the lights to ensure none of the bulb connections have corroded.

Some cars may need rewiring, which should not be too much of an arduous task if the manufacturer’s original workshop manual is to hand. This should have a diagram showing how the car should be wired, although it is worth noting that faulty earthing is often one of the primary reasons for electrical problems.

Fluids

Making sure all the car’s fluids are up to the required standard is a great way to make sure it is roadworthy. Experts advise checking the area underneath the car if it has been stationary for some time, as this will help identify any leaks in the cooling system.

Classic cars that have been in hibernation for a number of months will need a complete oil and filter change, not to mention a drain, flush and replacement of radiator coolant. Any gas in the tank should also be removed.

Parts

Classic car owners should always be safe in the knowledge that they are choosing the right parts for their vehicles. It will pay off to buy parts that are compatible with the make, year and model of the car, as this will help to preserve its resale value.

The agenda has been prepared and includes business models, and international case studies which demonstrate the most plausible ways of implementing electric transport on a larger scale. The summit is expected to attract some one of the leading car manufacturing CEOs, engineers, fleet operators, battery manufacturers and infrastructure suppliers from the Electric Vehicle industry.

More than 60 people will be giving presentations during the event, with some of the top experts offering their ideas, knowledge and experience on topics such as advances in technology, strategic planning for the implementation of new EV production lines, as well as opportunities for expansion within the green automotive industry. More specifically, the speakers will discuss the ownership rights of electric battery models, how corporations will be financing their fleets of EV’s, the latest technological advances in EV batteries, the regulation of EVs at a municipal level, as well as the most commercially viable models of EVs.

As well as discussing the opportunities for the expansion of the electric car industry, the speakers will also be referring to some of the challenges which those in this area will face, including the technical, strategic and commercial difficulties that come with the mass marketing of an entirely new electric infrastructure. The event will be a great opportunity for the most innovative minds in the Green automotive industry to join forces and create working relationships which will help to push the industry in a positive direction. There will also be a fleet forum at the summit, which will be hosted in association with an organisation called Insero E-Mobility. Here, the procurement managers of commercial and retail fleets, as well as transport planners and logistics managers, are expected to learn how to integrate cost-effective cars and other vehicles into their standard fleet operations as well as managing insurance matters (www.carwarranty.co.uk).

Many of the most famous car manufacturers and environmental organisations will be sending their representatives to the summit; some of those who have already confirmed their attendance include Nissan, Renault, Toyota Motor Europe, the EEA (European Environmental Agency) and Liberty Electric cars. These are just a few of the leading automotive and green companies and organisations which will be present at the event.