Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Two bidders step up to acquire Renault F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/report-two-bidders-step-up-to-acquire-renault-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/report-two-bidders-step-up-to-acquire-renault-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/report-two-bidders-step-up-to-acquire-renault-f1/#commentsFiled under: ,



Renault looks set to be the next automaker to bail out of Formula 1, and it appears that there are two serious bidders in line to take over the operation. Renault will hold a special board meeting this week to decide on the racing team's fate, and it looks like it may go ahead and just line up a sale right away, instead of announcing a shutdown and then trying work out a sale as Honda and BMW did.

AutoCar reports that Prodrive, which has been trying to break into F1 for several years, may have the inside line on the French outfit. The other primary bidder is Genil Capital, a Luxembourg-based investment fund. The financial group would likely retain the Renault name for the team, while Prodrive would probably run under its own banner. If Prodrive wins out, Renault would remain only as an F1 engine supplier.

[Source: AutoCar]

REPORT: Two bidders step up to acquire Renault F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F1F1-Renaultformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnegenil capitalGenilCapitalprodriverenaultRenault F1RenaultF1Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive reportedly working on phantom Mini crossover rally car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/prodrive-reportedly-working-on-phantom-mini-crossover-rally-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/prodrive-reportedly-working-on-phantom-mini-crossover-rally-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/prodrive-reportedly-working-on-phantom-mini-crossover-rally-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mini Crossover Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Rumors have been circulating for months that Mini is preparing an upcoming assault on the World Rally Championship. But since they surfaced, little else has been said. The apparent reason for that delay, as emerging reports indicate, is due to the postponement of the car on which it is to be based.

Following the departure of BMW from Formula One, the German auto group hardly has any involvement in any major form of motorsport, foreshadowing its arrival on the rally scene. While previous reports didn't delve into the question of whether Mini would mount the campaign itself or solicit outside help, the latest word is that legendary motorsport contractors Prodrive - who've been without a manufacturer partner since Subaru withdrew from rallying - is already working on a rally-spec Mini. But rather than use one of the existing models as its basis, they're reportedly waiting for the arrival of the new Countryman crossover.

That model, however, has been delayed, with pre-production debut pushed back from the Detroit Auto Show in January possibly until Geneva in March. Given the setback, Prodrive is reportedly working on the parts it can without laying hands on the vehicle on which they'll be installed. Sources now suggest that the WRC-sped Mini Countryman will make its debut next fall at the Paris Motor Show in September.


Gallery: MINI Crossover Concept


[Source: Autosport via MotoringFile]

Prodrive reportedly working on phantom Mini crossover rally car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini prodrivemini wrcMiniProdriveMiniWrcprodriveworld rally championshipWorldRallyChampionshipwrcThu, 05 Nov 2009 08:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Grand Primer: A dozen new teams lodge bids to enter F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/grand-primer-a-dozen-new-teams-lodge-bids-to-enter-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/grand-primer-a-dozen-new-teams-lodge-bids-to-enter-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/grand-primer-a-dozen-new-teams-lodge-bids-to-enter-f1/#commentsFiled under:



Whatever the outcome of the standoff between the Formula One Teams Association and the FIA, it was clear from the get-go that F1 was to change dramatically. As it turned out, the two parties - the first representing the teams currently participating in the sport and the second its governing body - have apparently reconciled their differences.

But as it turns out, even if all of the existing teams walked, the FIA would still have had a field of eager teams ready to take their place - that's one heck of a bargaining chip. One way or another, all indications are that the cost of running an F1 team will be drastically reduced in the near future, starting with next season. Lower costs mean easier access, and teams have been lining up by the dozen to take part in the new, more accessibly Formula One. Follow the jump to read all about 'em.

[Source: Autosport | Image: Mark Thompson/Getty]

Continue reading Grand Primer: A dozen new teams lodge bids to enter F1

Grand Primer: A dozen new teams lodge bids to enter F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex wurzAlexWurzaston martinAstonMartincamposcarlos slimCarlosSlimdavid richardsDavidRichardsepsilon euskadiEpsilonEuskadif1fiafomformtechformula 1formula oneformula one managementFormula1FormulaOneFormulaOneManagementisportlolamarchmike gascoyneMikeGascoynen.technologynick wirthNickWirthprodriveray mallockRayMallockteam superfundTeamSuperfundus gpeusf1UsGpeSat, 06 Jun 2009 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin to join F1 circus in 2012?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/aston-martin-to-join-f1-circus-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/aston-martin-to-join-f1-circus-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/aston-martin-to-join-f1-circus-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: ,



It looks like GT and Le Mans prototype racing may be just the beginning for Aston Martin. Following an agreement this week with F1 promotions boss, Bernie Ecclestone, Aston Martin could be jumping into the Formula One ranks in 2012. Like Aston's other race programs, it's F1 campaign will be operated by Prodrive, although the team will actually launch in 2010 as the Prodrive team then switch to the automaker's branding two years later.

The new team will apparently cooperate with McLaren-Mercedes, but Prodrive will build the cars at its Banbury factory. The new cars will use customer engines from another manufacturer, but they will wear Aston Martin badging. The team already has two primary sponsors including Aston Martin majority owner Investment Dar. Prodrive boss Dave Richards acknowledged that the deal to enter F1 was only possible because of the budget caps that are being imposed beginning in 2010.

[Source: AutoCar]

Aston Martin to join F1 circus in 2012? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 May 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin f1AstonMartinAstonMartinF1prodriveFri, 29 May 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive/Aston chief David Richards considering Honda F1 buy-out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/prodrive-aston-chief-david-richards-considering-honda-f1-buy-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/prodrive-aston-chief-david-richards-considering-honda-f1-buy-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/26/prodrive-aston-chief-david-richards-considering-honda-f1-buy-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

What goes around comes around, or so the saying goes. This is certainly true for Prodrive's front-man David Richards, who never seems to be lacking for opportunities. Having run racing programs for Subaru, Aston Martin, BMW, Porsche, MG, Alfa Romeo, Ford and Ferrari - to name just a few - Richard's Prodrive outfit was contracted by Honda to run its Formula One program, then running under the BAR banner. Honda then decided to operate the team in-house, and Richards moved towards fielding his own entry. As it turns out, neither plan panned out, and Richards is now considering leading a consortium of investors to acquire the Honda team anew.

Similar to the deal that saw Richards take the reins at Aston Martin, the veteran racing guru is talking with Investment Dar about financing the operation. Of course, Richards would assume his old role as team principal, especially given his newfound free time since Subaru canceled its partnership with Prodrive in the World Rally Championship.

[Source: Autosport.com | Image: Andreas Rentz/Getty]

Prodrive/Aston chief David Richards considering Honda F1 buy-out originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Dec 2008 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david richardsdavid richards honda f1david richards prodriveDavidRichardsDavidRichardsHondaF1DavidRichardsProdrivehondahonda f1HondaF1prodriveprodrive hondaprodrive honda f1ProdriveHondaProdriveHondaF1Fri, 26 Dec 2008 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Colin McRae tribute convoy reaches 30-miles long]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/colin-mcrae-tribute-convoy-reaches-30-miles-long/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/colin-mcrae-tribute-convoy-reaches-30-miles-long/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/colin-mcrae-tribute-convoy-reaches-30-miles-long/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of Colin McRae's tribute

Oh, those Brits. When they're not faking making corn circles they're writing a rally legend's name using 1,086 Subaru Imprezas as pixels. This, of course, was the finale to the weekend long celebration of Colin McRae's life, which saw over 1,100 Scoobys converge on Prodrive's test track in Warwickshire. Precisely how many cars took part in the ensuing 30-mile convoy is unknown, but if you don't have anything better to do right now, you can have a go at counting them in the video after the jump (and look out for the near miss at 6:42). Even the local constabulary showed up in a WRX pursuit car.


The half-mile-long sign you see above broke the Guiness World Record for, err, writing signs with cars by a cool 800, but more importantly Colin's fans raised over $80,000 for the McRae family's chosen charities.

Gallery: Colin McRae's tribute convoy

Continue reading Colin McRae tribute convoy reaches 30-miles long

Colin McRae tribute convoy reaches 30-miles long originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colin mcraecolin-mcraecolin-mcrae-convoycolin-mcrae-tributeColinMcraeconvoygatheringimprezaprodrivesubaruTue, 02 Sep 2008 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive helps with power-to-weight in 1-horsepower racers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/prodrive-helps-with-power-to-weight-in-1-horsepower-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/prodrive-helps-with-power-to-weight-in-1-horsepower-racers/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/prodrive-helps-with-power-to-weight-in-1-horsepower-racers/#commentsFiled under:



Prodrive boss David Richards led the consortium that bought Aston Martin last year. His company also fields race teams that have a habit of winning (including Aston Martin's). Now, in the interest of the winning part of the equation, Prodrive's efforts aren't necessarily confined to four-wheeled racers. Some trade wheels for legs and have just one horsepower. That's because they're, you know, horses. Prodrive has developed ultralight, super-strong carbon fiber stirrups for Alan Webb Racing saddles used by steeplechasers. (Steeplechase is also known as jump racing or national hunt racing.) They help bring the weight of the company's latest saddle down to 1.3 pounds (600 grams), the idea being that every gram of weight saved can manifest itself as fractions of a second gained on the race course. In that sense it's no different than motorsport, so is it any surprise then that a saddle manufacturer would want the Aston Martin of stirrups for its equipment?

[Source: Prodrive]

Continue reading Prodrive helps with power-to-weight in 1-horsepower racers

Prodrive helps with power-to-weight in 1-horsepower racers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan webb racingAlanWebbRacingcarbon fiberCarbonFiberjump racingJumpRacingnational hunt racingNationalHuntRacingprodrivesaddlessteeplechasestirrupsWed, 30 Jul 2008 12:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive sets up Essex police with 270hp Impreza interceptors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/01/prodrive-sets-up-essex-police-with-270hp-impreza-interceptors/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/01/prodrive-sets-up-essex-police-with-270hp-impreza-interceptors/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/01/prodrive-sets-up-essex-police-with-270hp-impreza-interceptors/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you watched the first episode of Top Gear's season 11, you likely smirked at the lackluster Vauxhalls that the British bobbies have to drive in pursuit of "the baddies". But once in a while the constables in the UK gets something special in their motor-pools, like the Caparo T1, Lotus Exige, Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 and Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. While few officers have actually had the chance to drive any of these epic exotics since they're used purely for demonstration purposes, the latest addition is here to stay: Prodrive has prepared a fleet of Subaru Impreza GB270s especially for the Automatic Number Plate Recognition Team at the Essex Police department.

Not only did Prodrive set up the vehicle for the team, commonly known as "The Intereptors", but the 21 officers that make up their ranks received a day of special instruction on how to get the most out of their new 270hp all-wheel-drive speed machines. As you can see in the press release after the jump, however, "The day was not about driving these cars fast, but understanding how and when to use their capability in a safe way." Way to make something exciting very boring, guv'na.

[Source: Prodrive]

Continue reading Prodrive sets up Essex police with 270hp Impreza interceptors

Prodrive sets up Essex police with 270hp Impreza interceptors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automatic number plate recognition teamAutomaticNumberPlateRecognitionTeambritish policeBritishPoliceessex policeEssexPoliceimprezaimpreza gb270impreza stiimpreza wrxImprezaGb270ImprezaStiImprezaWrxinterceptorlaw enforcementLawEnforcementpoliceprodriveprodrive gb270prodrive imprezaprodrive policeProdriveGb270ProdriveImprezaProdrivePolicestisubarusubaru impreza gb270SubaruImprezaGb270the interceptorsTheInterceptorsuk policeUkPolicewrxTue, 01 Jul 2008 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Alfa officially launches Prodrive-prepped Brera S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/alfa-officially-launches-prodrive-prepped-brera-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/alfa-officially-launches-prodrive-prepped-brera-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/alfa-officially-launches-prodrive-prepped-brera-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for new high-res gallery of the Alfa Brera S

As we reported earlier, Alfa Romeo handed over its Brera to Prodrive, which has extensively honed the hot hatch into what's being called the Brera S. Prodrive fit the new Brera S with Eibach coil springs and Bilstein dampers, and then conducted extensive testing to find the right balance of spring and damper rates for sharper handling without ruining the ride. The steering was also tweaked to take advantage of the car's faster reflexes, and 8C Competizione-inspired lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels wearing Pirelli rubber keep the car affixed to terra firma. Along with lighter wheels, hollow anti-roll bars and aluminum suspension components further reduce the car's weight below the rest of the Brera range. Exterior mods are minimal, but the exhaust has been reworked and is capped with chrome tips featuring Prodrive's logo, and there are now Prodrive-branded mud flaps up front and either 'S' or 'SV6' badges on the C-pillar. The Brera S has also been fitted with new seats that, along with the dashboard, door panels, steering wheel and gear shift, feature red stitching. There are drilled aluminum pedals for your footsies and a limited-edition Brera S aluminum plate featuring the flags of each company's home country (Italy and Britain) is located in the headrest recess. The Brera S package can be had with either the 2.2 JTS model powered by a 185bhp four-cylinder or the 3.2 JTS V6 powered by a 260bhp V6, though only 500 will be made. We'd love to have one but suspect they'll all be acquired by the time Alfa Romeo gets around to selling cars in the U.S. again. Check out the new gallery of high-res Brera S images below and the official scoop from Alfa Romeo after the jump.

Gallery: Alfa Brera S


[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa officially launches Prodrive-prepped Brera S

Alfa officially launches Prodrive-prepped Brera S originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2008 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa brera salfa romeo prodriveAlfaBreraSAlfaRomeoProdrivebrera sBreraSprodriveprodrive brera sProdriveBreraSTue, 20 May 2008 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive tuning the Alfa Romeo Brera S in June]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/prodrive-tuning-the-alfa-romeo-brera-s-in-june/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/prodrive-tuning-the-alfa-romeo-brera-s-in-june/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/30/prodrive-tuning-the-alfa-romeo-brera-s-in-june/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Alfa Romeo Brera.

Prodrive is in the process of developing a performance package for the Alfa Romeo Brera S, the first collaboration between the two since Prodrive campaigned a pair of factory-built Alfa 155s in the British Touring Car Championship in 1995. Based off the 2.2 JTS and 3.2 V6 models, between 250 and 300 special edition models will be released. The majority of the focus will be spent on the suspension, aero enhancements and (thankfully) some weight savings. 19-inch rollers are expected to fill the wheel wells, while a handful of driver-oriented improvements, along with some S-badging, will find its way inside. Beyond that, details are scarce, but anytime you mix one-part unobtainable Italian with another part British racing legends, good things are on the way.

Gallery: Geneva 2008: Alfa Romeo Brera


[Source: Italiaspeed]

Prodrive tuning the Alfa Romeo Brera S in June originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo brera prodriveAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoBreraProdrivebreraprodriveWed, 30 Apr 2008 10:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Job Listing of the Day: Prodrive Chairman's Estate Manager]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/25/job-listing-of-the-day-prodrive-chairmans-estate-manager/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/25/job-listing-of-the-day-prodrive-chairmans-estate-manager/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/25/job-listing-of-the-day-prodrive-chairmans-estate-manager/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So you want to work for Prodrive/Aston Martin, but you don't quite have the qualifications to be a bodyshell fabricator or a chief engineer? Then perhaps you have what it takes to fill the position of estate manager for the chairman of the company. You won't need to know your way around a sheet of carbon fiber, but you will need to be able to manage the garden and domestic staff, have a good sense of humor, and "carry out occasional driving duties," among other things. For your dutiful service, your rewards will include a fully paid-for cottage on the property, a mobile phone, and a company car. But remember, Ford still owns part of Aston, so that car could be a Mondeo... but that wouldn't be too bad, would it, guv'nor? Thanks for the tip, sndkick!

[Source: Prodrive]

Job Listing of the Day: Prodrive Chairman's Estate Manager originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinAstonMartindave richardsDaveRichardsestate managerEstateManagerjob openingjob opportunitiesJobOpeningJobOpportunitiesjobsprodriveFri, 25 Apr 2008 08:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive develops active toe control]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/prodrive-develops-active-toe-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/prodrive-develops-active-toe-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/prodrive-develops-active-toe-control/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Prodrive has developed a new system that can actively manipulate the toe angle of the rear wheels on front-wheel-drive cars so handling limits can be increased on the fly. The system, named "Active Toe Control," has the ability to make a standard twist beam rear suspension behave more like a complex multi-link arrangement by changing the wheel's angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle (i.e. toe). Prodrive is actively pursuing a partnership to develop the system and believes that it can increase safety and handling performance at a fraction of the cost of newer, more expensive multi-link setups.

All the details are available in Prodrive's press release after the jump.

Continue reading Prodrive develops active toe control

Prodrive develops active toe control originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active toe controlActiveToeControlprodriveprodrive active toe controlProdriveActiveToeControlThu, 13 Mar 2008 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive abandons Formula One dream, refocuses on GT, WRC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/14/prodrive-abandons-formula-one-dream-refocuses-on-gt-wrc/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/14/prodrive-abandons-formula-one-dream-refocuses-on-gt-wrc/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/14/prodrive-abandons-formula-one-dream-refocuses-on-gt-wrc/#commentsFiled under:



After a two-year effort to launch the twelfth team on the Formula One grid, Prodrive has finally conceded to the phrase "Give up all hope, Ye who enter here!". Prodrive boss Dave Richards had protracted negotiations with McLaren about buying their chassis and Mercedes-Benz engines. Objections, however, to customer programs from teams such as Williams resulted in a new Concorde Agreement that killed the plan. As a result, Dave Richards, having seen what happened to Tom Walkinshaw a few years ago, decided against sacrificing his entire business empire and will instead re-focus the company on GT racing and the World Rally Championship. Richards himself will again take a hands-on role in leading the Subaru WRC team that was so successful under his guidance in the 1990s. It's a shame it didn't happen, but it's probably for the best given past history.

[Source: AutoCar, via Winding Road]

Prodrive abandons Formula One dream, refocuses on GT, WRC originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-richardsprodriveMon, 14 Jan 2008 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive closing its doors in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/24/prodrive-closing-its-doors-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/24/prodrive-closing-its-doors-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/24/prodrive-closing-its-doors-in-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Word filtered down this week through the interweb that Prodrive's operations in the U.S. would cease to exist when the 2007 calendar year concludes. Prodrive America has been around for over five years, mainly supplying Subaru enthusiasts with all the necessary gear to flog road courses and plug holes on rally stages. There's no word as to why Prodrive is pulling out of the U.S., but to all its employees, we wish them the greatest of luck on their future endeavors.

[Source: Driving Sports via Straightline]

Prodrive closing its doors in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Nov 2007 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closingprodrivesubaruu.s.Sat, 24 Nov 2007 09:34:00 EST<![CDATA[NO SOUP FOR YOU! Prodrive-McLaren deal cancelled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/no-soup-for-you-prodrive-mclaren-deal-cancelled/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/no-soup-for-you-prodrive-mclaren-deal-cancelled/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/no-soup-for-you-prodrive-mclaren-deal-cancelled/#commentsFiled under:

If you've got your money on Prodrive making an unprecedented F1 debut next season, we'd recommend calling your bookie and changing your bet. The British racing consultancy was preparing to hit the grand prix circuit using equipment obtained through a deal with McLaren, but the agreement that was all but dotted and crossed has reportedly fallen apart.

Neither Prodrive nor McLaren have yet to comment, but according to Autosport.com, the deal is off. As we'd reported previously, Prodrive were to become an effective second McLaren team by using the same chassis next season, but that all depends on the FIA Court of Appeal's ruling on the legality of such an arrangement. That procedure was, according to Prodrive chief David Richards - also chairman of Aston Martin and former lyteam principal at first Benetton and then BAR-Honda - was the last obstacle standing between the new team and its fight for podiums in 2008. It would appear, however, that McLaren is less than confident that the regulatory body will rubber-stamp the customer-car deal, as they've reportedly told their employees not to prepare the additional Prodrive cars.

Mad props to our reader andybee for the tip!

[Source: Autosport]

NO SOUP FOR YOU! Prodrive-McLaren deal cancelled originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancelledcarchassiscustomerdaviddealf1fiaformulamclarenoneprodriverichardsTue, 09 Oct 2007 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[McLaren and Prodrive sitting in a tree, R-A-C-I-N-G]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/03/mclaren-and-prodrive-sitting-in-a-tree-r-a-c-i-n-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/03/mclaren-and-prodrive-sitting-in-a-tree-r-a-c-i-n-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/03/mclaren-and-prodrive-sitting-in-a-tree-r-a-c-i-n-g/#commentsFiled under:

F1 panjandrums have been working all year on a suitable definition of the term "non-constructor." If they can get that done soon, and then figure out how to split F1 income among constructors and non, then Prodrive will officially join the 2008 F1 circus.

McLaren and Prodrive have recently signed a "detailed commercial agreement." However, it is being held up due to a lawsuit initiated by Spyker (and supported by Williams) that is now in arbitration. Spyker, an independent full constructor, has argued that allocation of income should be different for Toro Rosso and Super Aguri, since they essentially "buy" cars from other teams. The outcome of that will affect this year's income disbursements as well as next year's.

It isn't revealed yet just how much collaboration there will be between McLaren and Spyker on the chassis-engine package. Regardless, one just hopes McLaren will have a better experience with them than Red Bull and Honda have had with their respective "junior" teams.

[Source: Motor Authority]

McLaren and Prodrive sitting in a tree, R-A-C-I-N-G originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david richardsDavidRichardsf1 teamsF1Teamsformula 1 teamsFormula1Teamsmclarenmclaren prodrivemclaren prodrive fMclarenProdriveMclarenProdriveFprodriveprodrive mclaren agreementProdriveMclarenAgreementron dennisRonDennisWed, 03 Oct 2007 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin has bigger plans for Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/27/aston-martin-has-bigger-plans-for-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/27/aston-martin-has-bigger-plans-for-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/27/aston-martin-has-bigger-plans-for-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Aston Martin had one of the worst displays at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show, stuffed into the corner of the Ford section with precisely zero pizazz. Since Aston's new owners want to make a good impression, it looks like they're planning on kicking off the 2007-2008 auto show season with a big bang at Frankfurt. We've already told you about the fire-breathing new DBS, but the Prodrive crew is also planning on unveiling road-going versions of the V8 Vantage and the Bond-mobile. Judging by the already impressive 510 HP V12 DBS due in Q1 2008, the special edition could be a real threat to the GT3.

Aston Martin may only make 8,000 cars per year, but the British supercar maker sure seems to be in the news a lot lately. We'll keep you posted on the Aston Martin's offerings and any other unveilings from the show floor in Frankfurt at the end of September.

[Source: Auto Express]

Aston Martin has bigger plans for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 08:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aston MartinAstonMartinDBSFrankfurtProdriveV8 VantageV8VantageMon, 27 Aug 2007 08:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford says final price for Aston Martin was actually $931 million]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/08/ford-says-final-price-for-aston-martin-was-actually-931-million/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/08/ford-says-final-price-for-aston-martin-was-actually-931-million/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/08/ford-says-final-price-for-aston-martin-was-actually-931-million/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Automotive News just reported that Ford received a total of $931 million for Aston Martin when it sold the British premium GT maker earlier this year. We had previously put the purchase price at $870 million after reducing it from the initial rumor of $965 million. Confused yet? Good, so are we. Basically all we need to know at this point is that Ford received $931 million for Aston Martin, in the form of cash and preferred stock in Primrose Cove Ltd. Primrose Cove is the name of the holding company that purchased Aston for its group of investors. Among those investors are Kuwait investment firms Investment Dar and Adeem Investment Co., as well as Prodrive's David Richards, and banker and Aston racer, John Sinders. The sale price amounted to a pretax gain of $187 million for Ford, and pretty much matched their March 12 statement that the company would be getting $848 million plus keep a $77 million stake in the company. Can you tell it's a slow news day?

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req.]

Ford says final price for Aston Martin was actually $931 million originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aston Martin saleAstonMartinSalePrimrose Cove Ltd.PrimroseCoveLtd.ProdriveWed, 08 Aug 2007 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin closing historic factory]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/19/aston-martin-closing-historic-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/19/aston-martin-closing-historic-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/19/aston-martin-closing-historic-factory/#commentsFiled under: ,



Later today, Aston Martin will be closing its historic Newport Pagnell factory, and CAR magazine will be on hand to cover the story live from the facility. The plant produces the V12 Vanquish, and after its shuttering, the center will be leveled in order to erect a series of office parks and residential housing.

Although the plant has been in operation for close to 50 years and Prodrive had originally said that it was safe, skepticism seems to have surrounded the future of the facility. The town itself has undergone a mass exodus of manufacturing jobs over the years, essentially turning the hamlet into a bedroom community.

We'll be following CAR's coverage throughout the day, so watch this space.

[Source: CAR, Newport Pagnell Homepage]

Aston Martin closing historic factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 10:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinAstonMartinnewport pagnellNewportPagnellprodrivevanquishThu, 19 Jul 2007 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Prodrive opening HQ to public for two days in July]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/30/prodrive-opening-hq-to-public-for-two-days-in-july/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/30/prodrive-opening-hq-to-public-for-two-days-in-july/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/30/prodrive-opening-hq-to-public-for-two-days-in-july/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click image for gallery

Motorsports fans who'd like to get a peek at the inner workings of Prodrive would be advised to get their fannies on a jumbo to England this July. That's when the company's motorsports HQ will be opened to the public for two days (7/14 - 7/15), giving fans a chance to learn how it creates and supports the five racing cars it handles on-site.

In addition to the learning element, fans will be entertained by the likes of Johnny Herbert and David Brabham, who will demonstrate the Aston Martin DBR9 while its crew performs pit stops on the car. Similarly, the Subaru World Rally Team will be servicing Petter Solberg's WRC ride for the public. The Prodrive heritage center will show off older race cars, and displays from Aston Martin and Subaru will contain fun stuff like Bond's Aston Martin DBS from Casino Royale, as well as Benedict Radcliffe's wire-frame Impreza sculpture.

There's more, too, as you'll see in the press release after the jump. It's all for charity, with the proceeds going to the Oxford Children's Hospital. If you're going to be in the UK in mid-July, it sounds like a good time is waiting to be had. Ticket info can be found here, and more information about Oxford Children's Hospital can be found here.

[Source: Prodrive]

Gallery: Prodrive HQ Open Day

Continue reading Prodrive opening HQ to public for two days in July

Prodrive opening HQ to public for two days in July originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 May 2007 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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