It's all about Porsche…if you're an owner of a Porsche,or a big enthusiast of Porsche Cars, Porsche Motorsports, Porsche Design, Porsche History, or a member of a Porsche Club….join me on focusing just about PORSCHE!!
Stuttgart. In the qualifying for the six hour race of Spa-Francorchamps, round two of the World Endurance Championship (WEC) for sports cars on the storied circuit in the Ardennes,
Porsche 911 RSR, Porsche AG Team Manthey: Marc Lieb, Richard Lietz, Romain Dumas
Porsche works pilots Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) and Patrick Pilet (France) planted their Porsche 911 RSR on the sixth grid spot in the GTE-Pro class. For Saturday’s race, they share the cockpit of the number 91 car with Timo Bernhard (Germany).
Marc Lieb, Romain Dumas, Richard Lietz, Porsche AG Team Manthey
Their works driver colleagues Marc Lieb (Germany) and Romain Dumas (France) take up the race one position behind them. The third driver in the 470 hp # 92 GT racer is Richard Lietz (Austria). Porsche AG Team Manthey field both Porsche 911 RSR.
From this season on, the qualifying in the WEC is conducted following a new format: For the first time, two drivers must qualify one car. The grid positions for the race are determined by the average of the two fastest timed laps of each of these drivers.
Porsche 911 RSR, Porsche AG Team Manthey: Joerg Bergmeister, Timo Bernhard, Patrick Pilet
Joerg Bergmeister (#91)
“I made a small mistake in my second lap. Otherwise I could have gone a little faster. But I still pitted so that I didn’t wear the tyres too much for Patrick.”
Patrick Pilet (#91):
“The car ran very steadily and that’s good for the race. We’re not too far back and I hope that we can do even better tomorrow.”
Romain Dumas (#92):
“That qualifying wasn’t perfect. But I’m sure we’ll look better in the race.”
Marc Lieb (#92):
“Our car performed better than in practice so that’s a small step in the right direction. Let’s see what tomorrow’s race brings.”
Porsche AG Team Manthey
Qualifying result GTE-Pro class
1. Makowiecki/Bell/Senna (F/GB/BRA), Aston Martin Vantage, 2:19.811 minutes
2. Bruni/Fisichella (I/I), Ferrari F458 Italia, + 0.042 seconds
3. Kobayashi/Vilander (J/SF), Ferrari F458 Italia, + 0.278
4. Turner/Mücke/Dumbreck (GB/D/GB), Aston Martin Vantage, + 0.296
5. DallaLana/Stanaway/Lamy (CAN/NZ/P), Aston Martin Vantage, + 0.430
6. Bergmeister/Pilet/Bernhard (D/F/D), Porsche 911 RSR, + 0.432
7. Lieb/Lietz/Dumas (D/A/F), Porsche 911 RSR, + 1.049
GTE-Am class
1. Nygaard/Poulsen/Simonsen (DK/DK/DK), Aston Martin Vantage, 2:21.265 minutes
2. Potolicchio/Aguas/Malucelli (I/P/I), Ferrari F458 Italia, + 0.030 seconds
3. Goethe/Hall/Campbell-Walter (D/GB/GB), Aston Martin Vantage, + 0.284
4. Bornhauser/Canal/Rees (F/F/BRA), Chevrolet Corvette, + 0.480
5. Ried/Roda/Ruberti (D/I/I), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 1.425
7. Narac/Vernay (F/F), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 2.156
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
The World Endurance Championship
In the World Endurance Championship, sports prototypes and GT vehicles start in four classes: LMGTE-Pro, LMGTE-Am, LMP1 and LMP2. They all compete together in one race but are classified separately.
911 Turbo sets new reference values for dynamics and fuel consumption
Stuttgart. The Porsche model offensive in the anniversary year of the 911 is reaching new heights.
911 Turbo S Coupé Interior
50 years ago, the 911 made its debut at the Frankfurt International Auto Show. And just ten years later, the first 911 Turbo prototype was at the IAA. On this 40th anniversary Porsche is now presenting the new generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S – the technological and dynamic performance peak of the 911 series.
911 Turbo S Coupé
New all-wheel drive, active rear axle steering, adaptive aerodynamics, full-LED headlights and the up to 560 hp flat six-cylinder engine with bi-turbo charging underscore the role of the new generation 911 Turbo as a circuit racing car, everyday car and technology platform. Playing an equally crucial role are the entirely new chassis in lightweight design with a 100 mm longer wheelbase and larger 20-inch wheels.
911 Turbo S Coupé Interior
The PDCC active anti-roll system, which is being offered for the first time in 911 Turbo models, increases dynamic performance even more. This system is standard equipment in the 911 Turbo S, as is the Sport Chrono Package with dynamic engine mounts and PCCB ceramic brakes; all of these features are also available as options in the 911 Turbo.
911 Turbo S Coupé
The results:
The new 911 Turbo S shortens the lap time for the North Loop of the Nürburgring to well under 7:30 minutes – naturally with standard production tyres. The standard sound symposer intensifies the driving experience; it transmits induction sounds of the turbo engine to the passenger compartment via a speaker diaphragm.
911 Turbo S Coupé
More power, fuel economy improved by 16 per cent
The performance partners in the powertrain area are the further advanced engines and the new PTM all-wheel drive system. The turbocharged 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine with direct petrol injection produces 520 hp (383 kW) in the 911 Turbo and 560 hp (412 kW) in the S model. Porsche continues to be the only carmaker to offer two turbochargers with variable turbine geometry for a petrol engine.
911 Turbo S Coupé
Power is transferred to the drivetrain via the seven-speed dual clutch transmission (PDK), which now enables an auto start/stop function with engine shutoff that now activates earlier during coasting to a stop as well as a coasting function. Together with the new thermal management system for the turbo engine and the PDK transmission, fuel efficiency technologies have reduced NEDC fuel consumption by up to 16 per cent to 9.7 l/100 km; these figures apply to both models.
911 Turbo S Coupé
New all-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic control
For an even faster and more precise power distribution to the two axles, Porsche developed a new all-wheel drive system (PTM) with electronically controlled and activated multi-plate coupling. The system is equipped with a new water cooling function, so that it can direct even more drive torque to the front wheels if necessary. Simultaneously, the optimised interplay of the engine, transmission and all-wheel drive systems takes the new top 911 to even better sprint capabilities. The 911 Turbo with the optional Sport Chrono Package accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, which is even one-tenth better than the value of the previous 911 Turbo S. The new 911 Turbo S handles the standard sprint to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds. The car’s top speed is 318 km/h.
911 Turbo S Coupé
Widest body of all 911 cars
The two new top models display their performance visually more than ever. The characteristic, expansively wide rear body panels of the new generation 911 Turbo are 28 mm wider than on the 911 Carrera 4 models – they feature a nearly level surface, about the width of a hand, between the C-pillar and the outer edge of the car body. Other differentiating characteristics include two-tone forged 20-inch wheels – on the 911 Turbo S they have hub wheel locks. The Turbo S is also making its appearance with new full-LED headlights that feature four-point daytime running lights and dynamic, camera-based main beam control, which can be ordered as an option for the 911 Turbo.
911 Turbo S Coupé
Rear axle steering sustainably improves handling
The introduction of rear axle steering in all turbo models immensely improves both circuit racing and everyday performance of the two new top sports cars. The system consists of two electro-mechanical actuators instead of the conventional control arms on the left and right of the rear axle. The steering angle of the rear wheels can be varied by up to 2.8 degrees, depending on vehicle speed. At speeds up to 50 km/h, when the front wheels are turned the system steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction. This actually corresponds to a virtual shortening of the wheelbase by 250 mm, which gives the 911 Turbo unrivalled performance in bends. The system lets the car turn faster into the bend and offers more dynamic steering response. This noticeably simplifies manoeuvring and parking.
911 Turbo S Coupé
At speeds above 80 km/h, the system steers the rear wheels parallel to the turned front wheels. This is equivalent to a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase by a significant 500 mm and gives the sports car tremendous stability, especially at high speeds. At the same time, the steering input by the driver leads to significantly faster build-up of lateral force at the rear axle, which initiates the change in direction more spontaneous and harmoniously.
Active aerodynamics improve efficiency and performance
Porsche developed an active aerodynamic system on the new 911 Turbo models for the first time — Porsche active aerodynamics (PAA). It consists of a sturdy, retractable three-stage front spoiler, whose segments can be pneumatically extended, and a deployable rear wing with three adjustable wing positions. This makes it possible to tune the aerodynamics of the 911 Turbo to fulfil driver wishes for either optimal efficiency (speed position) or top dynamic performance. In the performance position, all segments of the front spoiler are fully extended, and they generate considerable downforce at the front axle. Similarly, the rear wing is extended to its maximum height with the greatest angle of attack. This also generates more downforce at the rear axle. Dynamic performance is improved to such an extent that lap times at the North Loop of the Nürburgring are improved by up to two seconds due to this system alone.
911 Turbo S Coupé
New interior with high-end features
The interior was completely redesigned in both 911 Turbo models, and it builds on the 911 Carrera family. The S model is particularly well equipped, offering such features as an exclusive interior in a black/carrera red colour combination and adaptive sport seats plus with 18-way adjustment and memory. In addition, the seat backrest shells are leather upholstered with double cap seams and various elements in carbon look. Like on the previous models, the Bose sound system is installed as standard; for the first time, a Burmester system is also available as an optional feature. A radar-controlled cruise control system, camera-based road sign recognition and speed limit recognition are other new options being offered.
The new top models of the 911 model series arrive on the market at the end of September 2013. In Germany, the 911 Turbo costs 162,055 euros; the new 911 Turbo S costs 195,256 euros, including VAT and country-specific features.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
SOURCE: Porsche AG Media Database
Product and Technology Communication
Product Communication
Daytona 24 Hours – Press Release – 24/01/2013 Four Porsche on the first four grid spots
Stuttgart. Good starting position for Porsche at the Daytona 24 hour race: In qualifying for the sports car classic in Florida, Porsche pilots locked out the first four grid spots in a field of 36 vehicles entered in the GT class.
Nick Tandy
Pole position went to Nick Tandy in the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup fielded by Konrad Motorsport/Orbit. Daytona marks the first race for the Briton as a Porsche works driver.
Michael Christensen
One of his teammates is Porsche Junior Michael Christensen (Denmark), who contests his first 24 hour race on Saturday.
“Pole position in Daytona shouldn’t be underestimated, even if the race runs over 24 hours,” said Nick Tandy.
“Starting from the front allows you to avoid getting caught up in any skirmishes and that’s certainly an advantage. Our car ran perfectly and that gives us a good feeling for the race.”
In last year’s winning car with the starting number 44, Andy Lally (USA) set the second quickest qualifying time.
Sharing the cockpit of the Magnus Racing 911 GT3 Cup is Porsche works driver Richard Lietz from Austria.
Richard Lietz
Third in qualifying in the fiercely competitive qualifying session on the Daytona International Speedway, in which the eleven top placed cars are all within just one second, went to Sean Edwards (MOMO/NGT) from Great Britain ahead Porsche factory pilot Patrick Long (USA) competing for the Park Place Motorsports squad.
“We won the race last year. Second on the grid is an excellent starting position to repeat this success,” said Richard Lietz.
Patrick Pilet
Porsche works driver Patrick Pilet (France), one of Sean Edwards’ teammates, was also feeling optimistic.
“Sean did an excellent job. After this great qualifying result we are all looking forward to the race. Our goal is to finish on the podium.”
The Daytona 24 Hours starts on Saturday at 15.30 hrs local time (21.30 hrs CET).
Result GT qualifying
1. Nick Tandy (GB), Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, 1:47.631 minutes
2. Andy Lally (USA), Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, + 0.197 seconds
3. Sean Edwards (GB), Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, + 0.376
4. Patrick Long (USA), Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, + 0.506
5. Alessandro Balzan (I), Ferrari 458, + 0.629
6. Felipe Albuquerque (MEX), Audi R8, + 0.651
7. Marco Seefried (D), Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, + 0.688
8. Robin Liddell (GB), Camaro GT.R, + 0.699
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
SOURCE: Daytona 24 Hours – Porsche Media Press Database
Communication Porsche AG
Motorsport Press
In North America, the 24 Hours of Daytona endurance race sets the standard for sports car performance and longevity. Traditionally, the 24 hour race on the Daytona International Speedway is the first highlight of the motorsport season and year after year attracts the best pilots from all kinds of race series worldwide to the ‘Sunshine State’ of the USA.
Porsche has collected 72 class and 22 overall wins in the race’s 49-year history, making Porsche the most successful manufacturer in the history of the race. In recent years, Porsche cars have made up almost one-half of the overall entry list at Daytona.
The race
The endurance classic, which kicks off the Grand-Am Series season, started out in 1962 as a three-hour race. At 1,250 miles in 1964, the race grew to double the distance of the classic 1,000 kilometer races of Spa, Monza and the Nürburgring. The maiden 24-hour event in Daytona took place in 1966. Taking their places on the winner’s list are Formula 1 champions like Phil Hill and Mario Andretti as well as legendary Porsche pilots like Hans Herrmann, Rolf Stommelen, Hurley Haywood and Bob Wollek.
The circuit
The Daytona International Speedway is one of the world’s most famous racetracks. The 24-hour race is contested on the 3.56-mile track combination of oval with banked corner and the infield. The circuit is also the venue for the famed NASCAR Daytona 500 race with more than 250,000 spectators annually.
The roots of ‘skijoring’ or motor skiing can be traced back to Bavaria, circa 1955, when a group of Germanic lunatics decided it would be a good idea to use motorbikes, VW Beetles and Porsches to tow themselves around for fun.
Filmed in Bavaria, Germany. The skiers are towed behind cars travelling at great speed.
The concept is simple enough: put a rope on a car or motorcycle, presumably equipped with studded snow tires, then have the driver navigate a race course at speeds up to 100 miles per hour.
Probably not considered the most dangerous sport by today’s standards!
Evidently safety was not as big of a concern back then either. The speeds and proximities to other skiers in this clip are unlike anyone would have attempted.
See the Teutonic madness, featuring Porsche 356s and even a Porsche 550 Spyder, a short but sensationalized video below.
You can spot the Porsche 550 Spyders in the video, and what appears to be Otto Mathe’s famous 4 cam-powered single seat racer, which you can see in person visiting the Prototype Museum in Hamburg.
Probably the Gmund 040, then used by Otto Mathe to tow his ice racer
World’s Most Dangerous Sport (1955). Filmed in Bavaria, Germany. Skiers are towed by cars and motorcycles travelling at great speed. Probably not considered the most dangerous sport by today’s standards!
“The decision was a very exciting one,” says Porsche Head of Racing, Hartmut Kristen.
“The finalists were all on an impressive level. In order to select the two candidates with the greatest potential, our engineers carefully examined every single lap.
Connor de Philippi (USA), Alex Riberas Bou (ESP), Porsche Juniors
Stuttgart. Alex Riberas Bou (18) from Spain and America’s Connor de Phillippi (19) are the new Porsche juniors for the 2013 racing season. The two young hot shots, who have already achieved successes in karting and various Formula race series, will contest the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland in 2013.
Connor de Philippi (USA), Alex Riberas Bou (ESP), Porsche Juniors
After their excellent performance this past season, the Austrian Klaus Bachler (21) and Michael Christensen (22) from Denmark will receive support from Porsche again in 2013 as Porsche Juniors competing in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. Porsche supplies the four rookie drivers with the bulk of their budgets and provides coaching for the talented youngsters on and off the track.
Connor de Phillippi (USA), Porsche Junior
In an extensive selection process, Alex Riberas Bou and Connor de Phillippi came out on top against young pilots from all over the world.
Alex Riberas Bou (ESP), Porsche Junior
Factors taken into account were fitness, mental strength and technical understanding. At the finale on the race track in Vallelunga (Italy), the best six candidates had to prove they could work alongside engineers, drive consistent times over a race distance as well as underline their speed in qualifying laps on fresh tyres.
“The decision was a very exciting one,” says Porsche Head of Racing, Hartmut Kristen. “The finalists were all on an impressive level. In order to select the two candidates with the greatest potential, our engineers carefully examined every single lap.
Both Alex Riberas Bou and Connor de Phillippi have the talent necessary to be successful in the sports car scene and to follow in the footsteps of Klaus Bachler and Michael Christensen.
Our current Porsche works drivers have shown that the Carrera Cup is an excellent platform for a professional international career.”
The Porsche Juniors themselves will choose the teams with whom they want to contest the Carrera Cup Deutschland. On and off the track, the pilots receive assistance similar to the internationally successful Porsche factory drivers. Fitness tests with constantly adapted training plans as well as media coaching and sponsor obligations are also part of the programme.
Alex Riberas Bou (ESP), Porsche Junior
Alex Riberas Bou comes from Barcelona in Spain. As a child he initially played soccer for FC Barcelona, and then went on to secure his first successes in kart racing at the age of 13. In 2010, he switched to the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup and immediately pocketed second in the rookie classification. For the 2011 and 2012 seasons, he established himself as one of the top drivers in the highly competitive Formula series. Aside from soccer, motocross, trial, skiing and squash, the Spaniard is an avid fan of historic Porsche vehicles.
Alex Riberas Bou (ESP), Porsche Junior
“My biggest dream has come true. I’ve always been a huge Porsche fan,” says the 18-year-old junior pilot. “Although I’ve only raced karts and Formula cars until now, I immediately felt at home at the wheel of the Porsche 911. I can’t wait for the 2013 season and the things I will learn over the winter months from Porsche and my future team.”
Connor de Phillippi (USA), Porsche Junior
Connor de Phillippi lives in the Californian town of San Clemente south of Los Angeles. He began racing karts at the age of five and over the course of the next nine years he notched up 21 national championships. In 2008 he made the jump to Formula racing.
Straightaway, he secured the title in the Skip Barber West Coast Series and became champion of the Skip Barber National Championship in 2009. In 2010 the American with Italian roots took the next step on the career ladder and concluded the Formula Star Mazda series ranking third overall. 2011 yielded him vice-championship honours followed by third overall in 2012. Not surprisingly, the dark-haired Californian coast resident loves wake boarding and body surfing in his spare time. On land, Connor de Phillippi keeps himself in top shape on the bike and snowboard.
Connor de Phillippi (USA), Porsche Junior
“It’s unbelievable to now be a part of this programme,” says de Phillippi. “It’s a huge step for me to now race in Europe. But as everyone knows, there is no better school in GT racing than to pit yourself against the top specialists in the Carrera Cup Deutschland. Porsche works driver Patrick Long also took this route. He is one of my biggest role model. I hope to be his teammate one day.”
Klaus Bachler and Michael Christensen now move into the second stage of the Porsche junior support programme concept. For next season, the pair is promoted to the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup as support to Formula 1. Bachler concluded his maiden season in the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland ranking eighth in the championship and secured a podium result at his home race in Austria. Christensen claimed third place on the Lausitzring and crowned his season with a victory at the finale in Hockenheim. This earned the Dane seventh place in the championship.
Hartmut Kristen, Head of Porsche Motorsport
“I’m very pleased that Klaus Bachler and Michael Christensen quickly earned their stripes in the Carrera Cup Deutschland,” says Hartmut Kristen, Head of Porsche racing. “Both show huge potential and are following the path that we had hoped for in our Junior Programme. Their learning curve is steep. I’m certain they will also enjoy success in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.”
The world’s first black timepiece, and at the same time luxury brand Porsche Design’s first product: The “Chronoprapgh I”.
40 Years of Porsche Design
Stuttgart. The world’s first black timepiece, the legendary exclusive spectacles and the Porsche 911 – for decades, all these products have stood for a unique design by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche: In 1972 he founded the “Porsche Design Studio” in Stuttgart, the head office of which was relocated to Zell am See in Austria in 1974.
Starting today, the Porsche Museum is marking the company’s 40th anniversary with a special exhibition: from 13 November 2012 to 17 February 2013, visitors can experience the most important, most interesting and most extraordinary products as well as how Porsche Design came to exist.
40 Years of Porsche Design
The focus of the anniversary exhibition is on the “Porsche Design” brand, which in recent years has been developed into one of the world’s leading luxury brands with its own sales network. F.A. Porsche designed numerous classic men’s accessories such as watches, spectacles and writing implements, which achieved worldwide recognition under the “Porsche Design” brand. In parallel, with his team, he designed a plethora of industrial products, household appliances and consumer durables for internationally renowned clients under the “Design by F.A. Porsche” brand. Ferdinand Alexander Porsche won numerous honours and awards for his work as a designer.
40 Years of Porsche Design
For example, the “Chronograph I”, a milestone in the watchmaker’s craft, is a compulsory exhibition piece. The world’s first black timepiece, and at the same time luxury brand Porsche Design’s first product, created a furore in 1972 because the automatic chronograph – considered unthinkable at the time – was designed in matt black throughout and provocatively unadorned. With this chronometer, F.A. Porsche was anticipating a trend that is part and parcel of today’s watch industry and even then was considered to be revolutionary. In addition to the chronograph, the visitor will also be presented with other products from the accessories and spectacles range. For example the Porsche Design P’8478 exclusive spectacles will be on display, already purchased by more than 7 million wearers. Writing implements and pipes will also feature in the exhibition.
The adjustable “Antropovarius” lounge chair is also on display as the “Alternative Motorcycle Concept”, AMK.
A highlight of the special exhibition is the grand piano, which the Porsche Design Studio designed for the Bösendorfer piano factory in 2003. This grand piano symbolises the studio’s design output, characterised by a clear, functional design language, meticulous choice of materials and top quality workmanship. The adjustable “Antropovarius” lounge chair developed by the Porsche Design Studio in 1982 in collaboration with the Institute of Ergonomics of the University of Munich will also be on display as will the “Alternative Motorcycle Concept”, AMK, devised in 1980 as an alternative solution to the car and to conventional motorcycles.
The Porsche Museum is marking the company’s 40th anniversary with a special exhibition from 13 November 2012 to 17 February 2013.
In addition to a selection of special design developments, the visitor will also gain an insight into the everyday creative life of Porsche Design’s employees. This is where those who are interested will discover not just the individual steps in creating the product – from conceiving the idea through to design – but also the sources of inspiration. For example, in the case of the pipe, it is explained that when it came to the cooling ribs, F.A. Porsche took his lead from air-cooled single cylinder motorcycle engines. The Porsche museum also looks back at the life’s work and man that was F.A. Porsche, who created legendary cars such as the 904 Carrera GTS and Porsche 911. In the process the visitor will find out things such as why in 1974 F.A. Porsche decided to locate the Design Studio in Zell am See.
At 3 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays, the visitor has the opportunity to experience the special exhibition in the course of a one hour themed tour.
The Porsche Museum is using the anniversary exhibition as an opportunity to extend its tour programme. At 3 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays, the visitor has the opportunity to experience the special exhibition in the course of a one hour themed tour at a price of four euro per person. The Store at the Porsche Centre in Stuttgart Zuffenhausen also offers a ten per cent discount on Porsche Design products upon presentation of the museum entrance ticket.
The volume “Porsche Design 40Y – The Book” is also being published in time for the anniversary, available in both German and English for 98 euro in the Porsche Museum shop as well as in book stores. In the course of more than 570 pages, the reader is acquainted with an insight into the history of Porsche Design.
The Porsche Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is eight euro for adults and four euro for concessions. Further information is available on the Internet at http://www.porsche.com/museum.
The end of the 2012 ALMS season is marked with the ten hours of Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta. To celebrate the close of the season, Porsche shows the Art of Speed – the racing moments you may have missed from the historic event.
Stuttgart. At the street race of the American Le Mans Series in Baltimore in US state of Maryland,
Porsche works drivers Patrick Long (USA) and Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) start from the fourth grid spot of the strong GT field at the wheel of Flying Lizard Motorsports’ Porsche 911 GT3 RSR.
Their factory driver colleague Wolf Henzler (Germany) posted the seventh quickest time in hot summer temperatures on the circuit around the Inner Harbour, where an extra chicane made of tyre stacks was added for the qualifying session. With Bryan Sellers (USA),
Henzler won last year’s debut race in Baltimore in front of a record crowd of 150,000 spectators in the cockpit of the Porsche 911 GT3 RSR fielded by Falken Tire.
“By and large we are very happy with our starting position,” said Patrick Long.
“In qualifying it was ultimately about the question of whether you drive over the kerbs and take a big risk, or avoid the kerbs and are safer but a little slower. Since we had very little time to train because of the back and forth about the additional chicane we went for the second option.
We found a good set-up for tomorrow’s race.” Wolf Henzler added, “Seventh on the grid is not really what we expected from the qualifying, but I couldn’t go any faster. We will definitely be stronger in the race.”
Sascha Maassen (Germany) and Bryce Miller (USA) tackle Saturday’s race from position eight on the grid with their 911 run by Paul Miller Racing.
Taking up round eight of the race series featuring the world’s fastest sports cars from twelfth is Seth Neiman (USA), who shares driving duties in the second Flying Lizard Porsche with Porsche works driver Marco Holzer (Germany), pole-sitter at the previous race in Elkhart Lake.
“We’ve further improved the car since this morning. Unfortunately I didn’t get much of a chance to drive and so I had to familiarise myself with the circuit during qualifying,” said Sascha Maassen. “Still, we have a good race strategy and we’re feeling confident that we can bring home a good result tomorrow.”
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
The race in Baltimore starts on Saturday, 1 September, at 16.30 hrs local time (22.30 hrs CEST) and is broadcast live on the internet on http://www.americanlemans.com/live.
Qualifying result
GT class
1. Oliver Gavin (GB), Chevrolet Corvette, 1:29.95 minutes
2. Bill Auberlen (USA), BMW E92 M3, + 0.38 seconds
3. Jan Magnussen (DK), Chevrolet Corvette, + 0.47
4. Patrick Long (USA), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 0.72
5. Dirk Müller (D), BMW E92 M3, + 0.89
6. Scott Sharp (USA), Ferrari F458 Italia, + 1.32
7. Wolf Henzler (D), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 1.47
8. Sascha Maassen (D), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 2.16
12. Seth Neiman (USA), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 10.62
This is the American Le Mans Series
The American Le Mans Series (ALMS) was created in 1999 for sports prototypes and GT vehicles. The field is divided into five classes that start together but are classified separately:
GT class: This most popular class amongst car manufacturers traditionally receives the most support: Slightly modified standard sports cars with 440 to 500 hp and a minimum weight of 1,245 kilograms (e.g. Porsche 911 GT3 RSR).
GTC class: This class is reserved for vehicles from one-make race series like the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup.
LMP1 class: Sports prototypes with up to 550 hp and a minimum weight of 900 kilograms.
LMP2 class: Sports prototypes with ca. 440 hp and a 900 kg minimum weight.
LMPC class: Prototype brand trophy series for the ORECA FLM 09.
Jeroen Bleekemolen (NL), René Rast (D), Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
Stuttgart. Time penalties for half of the field – that is an exception in Germany’s fastest one make race series. Still it happened at the 13th race of the season on the challenging former Grand Prix circuit of Zandvoort.
And one of the beneficiaries was René Rast. Driving for the Team Deutsche Post by tolimit he did not cross the finish line as the winner but was classified as first.
Hans Bernd Kamps, René Rast Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
With his fifth victory of the season, Rast has extended his series lead to twelve points over his closest rival with four races left on the calendar.
Jeroen Bleekemolen (NL), René Rast (D), Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
Second place went to Jeroen Bleekemolen from the Netherlands at his guest appearance for Attempto Racing.
Jeroen Bleekemolen (NL), Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
And scoring third place, Sean Edwards (Team Deutsche Post by tolimit) earned more crucial points towards his diminishing chance in the title race.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
For the double champion of the international Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and Carrera Cup champion of 2008, René Rast, this result was quietly satisfying: The seasoned campaigner made a mistake during yesterday’s race at the end of the safety car phase and lost certain victory because of the subsequent penalty.
Today, Rast only saw the flag in third after a rather uneventful race. But because the first two, Norbert Siedler (Austria, Konrad Motorsport) and Nicki Thiim (Denmark, Hermes Attempto Racing), were given a 30-second time penalty due to driving too fast under the yellow flag, Rast was handed his fifth victory of the season.
Jeroen Bleekemolen gladly accepted the surprise gift of second place. As a guest starter, however, his job was first and foremost to stock up the points’ account for the Attempto squad – and he certainly did this well.
Start Rennen 2: Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
For Sean Edwards, third place was a positive outcome for a race that started badly. After taking off into the sprint from third on the grid, the Briton was shunted and was running only in seventh after the first lap. On the narrow track on the North Sea coast, overtaking is difficult enough anyway, but rain early this morning complicated the situation even more. Because away the racing line the track was damp and at times wet.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
Feisty Edwards managed to slip past guest starter Jeroen Mul (Netherlands, Team Bleekemolen), but he had no chance against Jeroen Bleekemolen at his home round.
Norbert Siedler (A) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
Fourth and fifth place went to two pilots, Norbert Siedler und Nicki Thiim, who fought a gripping duel at the front over the entire race distance: Heading into race 13 from pole position, the Dane immediately moved into the lead, while the Austrian only started from fifth place, but quickly tucked in behind Thiim.
Nicki Thiim (DK) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
Afterwards, Siedler stuck to Thiim’s bumper over two-thirds of the race distance – until he finally nabbed him in the 15th lap. Jaap van Lagen (Netherlands, FE Racing by Land-Motorsport) was another driver to be stripped of his fourth place after driving too fast under yellow.
Michael Christensen (DK) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland – 07 Zandvoort 2012
Porsche Junior Michael Christensen took home seventh position from Sunday’s race. The 21-year-old headed into the race from ninth, made up two places early on and with plenty of space behind and in front of him, drove a lonely race to the flag.
Behind him in eighth and ninth respectively came two Dutch guest pilots competing for Team Bleekemolen, Jeroen Mul and Sebastiaan Bleekemolen. Clemens Schmid (Austria, SWITCH IT Lechner Racing) grabbed the last top ten spot, while the second Porsche Junior Klaus Bachler (Austria, Team Deutsche Post by tolimit) made up three places to finish in eleventh and earn more points as well as gain experience on this demanding circuit.
Tomorrow, on 27 August, news station N24 televises the 30-minute “Porsche Carrera Cup Magazin” at 18.30 hours. And on Sport1, Carrera Cup highlights will be aired on Saturday, 1 September, from 15.00 to 15.30 hours.
René Rast (winner):
“How does the saying go? You learn from your mistakes. What Nicki and Norbert did today, happened to me on the Red Bull Ring. Today I very deliberately slowed down because I thought something like this would happen.
So I won the race today that I threw away yesterday. Points lead extended, team classification extended – a very satisfying day.”
Jeroen Bleekemolen (second):
“My start was not good and I fell back slightly. It was a difficult race today because only the racing line was dry. That was weird with the penalty. The track became faster because it had dried up.
After René and my mishap yesterday where we were handed the time penalty, I was extra careful today. And ironically the two of us finished in first and second.”
Sean Edwards (third):
“I got away well at the start but Norbert forced me to the outside and hit me hard. He said it was wet on the inside, which I don’t understand. But the result is okay and now I’m looking forward to Oschersleben.”
Michael Christensen (Porsche Junior, seventh):
“I didn’t see the yellow flag and I only realised something was up when the green flag came out. I’m happy with my race today. I started from ninth and finished in seventh. I couldn’t have done better.”
Klaus Bachler (Porsche Junior, eleventh):
“I’m really happy with today. Firstly, I drove from 14th on the grid to finish eleventh, secondly I matched the lap times of the front-runners on a drying track, which is particularly pleasing. Unfortunately I didn’t see the yellow flag and I received a penalty. Otherwise I could easily have moved up a few positions.”
Result race 13
1. René Rast (D), Team Deutsche Post by tolimit, 35:02.465 minutes
2. Jeroen Bleekemolen (NL), Attempto Racing, + 3.198
3. Sean Edwards (GB), Team Deutsche Post by tolimit, + 4.544
4. Norbert Siedler (A), Konrad Motorsport, + 27.510
5. Nicki Thiim (DK), Hermes Attempto Racing, + 29.335
6. Jaap van Lagen (NL), FE Racing by Land-Motorsport, + 32.430
7. Michael Christensen (DK), Konrad Motorsport, + 46.511
8. Jeroen Mul (NL), Team Bleekemolen, + 47.358
9. Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (NL), Team Bleekemolen, + 47.358
10. Clemens Schmid (A), SWITCH IT Lechner Racing, + 48.122
11. Klaus Bachler (A), Team Deutsche Post by tolimit, + 48.906
Result Amateurs
1. Hoevert Vos (NL), Land-Motorsport, 35:51.507 minutes
2. Christina Nielsen (DK), Farnbacher ESET Racing, + 26.253 seconds
3. Bill Barazetti (D), MRS GT-Racing, + 12.607
Drivers’ standings after 13 of 17 races
1. René Rast (D), 195 points
2. Sean Edwards (GB), 183
3. Nicki Thiim (DK), 140
4. Norbert Siedler (A), 139
5. Kévin Estre (F), 131
Amateur classification
1. Bill Barazetti (D), 202 points
2. Wolf Nathan (NL), 185
3. Harrie Kolen (NL), 165
Rookie classification
1. Kévin Estre (F), 131 Punkte
2. Michael Christensen (DK), 108
3. Philipp Frommenwiler (CH), 88
Team classification:
1. Team Deutsche Post by tolimit, 383 points
2. Hermes Attempto Racing, 274
3. Konrad Motorsport, 249
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Preview for races 14 and 15 in Oschersleben
Now it’s getting serious. In three weeks, on 14 to 16 September, the Carrera Cup Deutschland contests races 14 and 15 in the Motorsport-Arena Oschersleben – and heads onto the finish straight of the season. The 3.696 kilometre Oschersleben circuit is twisty and offers very few chances to overtake.
Nevertheless, spectators last year were treated to some thrilling fights that was characterised by heavier rainfall.
Three drivers battled for honours at the front – the very same drivers who make up the top group this year: René Rast saw the flag in second last year, Nicki Thiim posted pole position and finished the race in third, and Sean Edwards still managed to snatch fifth place despite losing a front splitter.
Following this year’s race in Zandvoort, René Rast travels to the next round topping the points, followed by Sean Edwards and Nicki Thiim.
Stuttgart. In the qualifying for the Grand Prix of Mosport, round five of the American Le Mans Series, Porsche works driver Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) posted the fifth quickest time in the well supported GT class.
“Our car handles well, but the Corvettes in particular were faster on the straights,” said Joerg Bergmeister, who recently claimed the first victory of the season for Porsche with his works driver teammate Patrick Long (USA).
In the two free practices, he drove the quickest time in both sessions, but in the fight for pole position he couldn’t do any better.
“After four laps we decided to stop our session and to save our tyres for the race. Our race set-up is good and we will try to bring home a podium result with a good strategy and perfect pit stops.”
At the wheel of the Porsche 911 GT3 RSR of Paul Miller Racing, Sascha Maassen (Germany) claimed the seventh spot ahead of Porsche factory pilot Wolf Henzler (Germany),
who netted the eighth quickest time with the 911 of Falken Tire.
Team owner Seth Neiman (USA) planted the second Flying Lizard Porsche on the eleventh spot. Underlining just how competitive the GT class of the American Le Mans Series is in Mosport is the fact that four different manufacturers, Chevrolet, BMW, Ferrari and Porsche, are in the top five in qualifying.
The race in Mosport takes off on Sunday, 22 July, at midday local time (18.00 hrs CEST) and is broadcast in the internet live on http://www.americanlemans.com.
Result Qualifying
GT class
1. Jan Magnussen (DK), Chevrolet Corvette, 1:15.478 minutes
2. Oliver Gavin (GB), Chevrolet Corvette, + 0.304 seconds
3. Bill Auberlen (USA), BMW E92 M3, + 0.533
4. Johannes van Overbeek (USA), Ferrari F458 Italia, + 0.711
5. Jörg Bergmeister (D), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 0.734
6. Dirk Müller (D), BMW E92 M3, + 0.920
7. Sascha Maassen (D), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 1.485
8. Wolf Henzler (D), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 1.582
11. Seth Neiman (USA), Porsche 911 GT34 RSR, + 5.132
This is the American Le Mans Series
The American Le Mans Series (ALMS) was created in 1999 for sports prototypes and GT vehicles.
The field is divided into five classes that start together but are classified separately: GT class: This most popular class amongst car manufacturers traditionally receives the most support: Slightly modified standard sports cars with 440 to 500 hp and a minimum weight of 1,245 kilograms (e.g. Porsche 911 GT3 RSR). GTC class: This class is reserved for vehicles from one-make race series like the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup. LMP1 class: Sports prototypes with up to 550 hp and a minimum weight of 900 kilograms. LMP2 class: Sports prototypes with ca. 440 hp and a 900 kg minimum weight. LMPC class: Prototype brand trophy series for the ORECA FLM 09.
The legendary Schuppen 962CR on offer is confirmed by the vendor to be the prototype chassis number one.Chassis number one, is arguably the purest of supercars and must be amongst to be the rarest of any road going supercar ever produced.
Has been entered by the Southgate Family. Paul Southgate loved life! Paul was renowned for owning some of the world’s most important Porsches- from 935′s through to Kremer CK5‘s and CK’8′s along with his collection of various important Formula 1 cars. Paul sadly passed away in 2008. He was a well-liked, very down to earth self-made man. Coys are proud to be appointed to offer this car from his collection on the open market for the first time in many years.
The Schuppan 962CR was a vehicle built and designed in the early 1990′s by the Legendary Australian racecar driver Vern Schuppan. The 962CR is based on the dominant Le Mans-winning Porsche 962 race car of which Schuppan raced and owned with his own team.
By 1989 many 962′s were around but Porsche made the decision to stop manufacturing the chassis.
The legend, Vern Schuppen thought there might be an opportunity to upgrade the aluminium tub to the ‘new’ carbon fibre material. The racing composite versions of the 962C raced at spa in 1989, Japan and Daytona and Le Mans in 1990/91 under the Team Schuppen banner.
The 962CR was a mid-engine,rear-wheel drive vehicle powering the car is a 3.3-litre Type-935 Flat-6 featuring twin KKK turbochargers that gave 600 hp.
This was mated to a five-speed manual transmission. This unit was borrowed nearly directly from the standard Porsche 962 unit used in the North American IMSA GT Championship with a slight decrease in displacement.
The car’s top speed is 230 mph with a 0–60 mph acceleration time of 3.5 seconds.
The chassis and body were built entirely by Schuppan, although it featured design elements from the 962 race car. Assembly took place at the VSL 60,000 ft² race and production facility in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England.
Funding was provided by Japanese investors who supported Schuppan’s race team that ran in the all Japan Sports Prototype Championship- ART Corporation.
At just over US$1.5 million new in the early 90′s , the Schuppan 962CR is among the most expensive new vehicles ever sold .
Rumours circulated for several years that the 962CR was sold new for US$2.5 million but this rumour was eventually dispelled by author and Porsche enthusiast Karl Ludvigsen who listed a price of ¥195 000 000.
By 1992 3prototype’s were built and the first production batch of 25 out of 50 cars were ready to roll. However before this could proceed, ART sport pulled the financial plug and their project ground to a holt. The timing was bad all round; the supercar market moved into decline, which drove the Art Sport decision -because the project faltered, the model could not be homologated for Le Mans.
This, coupled with the high cost of the car’s construction and a worldwide economic recession, forced Schuppan to declare bankruptcy, folding not only his car company but his race team as well.
The legendary Schuppen 962CR on offer is confirmed by the vendor to be the prototype chassis number one. It was purchased by the current vendor in 1999 indirectly through ART Corporation.
Confirmed and regarded internationally to be the car that featured in ‘The Story of Porsche’ and driven by Alain De Cadenet AS962CRP1 has featured in many magazines and Porsche books.
CRP1 has been the subject of much recent work- with various bills and receipts available in the car’s file. Bills include a £10,000 re-spray in 2004, and a thick file for mechanical work,where thousands had been spent from 2001 to 2006- too much work to list.
The engine- now a 3.3 turbo, was built by Julian Godfrey, and was mated to the correct type 962CR Porsche 962 gearbox, suspension and steering.
Chassis number one, is arguably the purest of supercars and must be amongst to be the rarest of any road going supercar ever produced.
This is a once in a life opportunity to acquire a 962CR – and offers its new owner a once in a life time opportunity to own and enjoy a pure blue chip investment.
René Rast clinches second win of season with a gala performance
Sean Edwards (GB), René Rast (D), Robert Lukas (PL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
Stuttgart. René Rast is back in the fight for the title of the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup. With a gala performance on the Valencia Street Circuit, the Lechner Racing Team pilot impressively clinched his second win of the season on the street course around the America’s Cup harbour.
René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
The German saw the flag 11.539 seconds ahead of Sean Edwards (Konrad Motorsport) from Great Britain, who secured second place in front of the surprisingly strong FÖRCH Racing driver, Robert Lukas from Poland. With this result, Edwards now moves into the lead of the world’s fastest international one-make race series for the first time this season.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
It was René Rast’s race from start to finish. At the wheel of his 450 hp Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, based on the street-legal lightweight 911 GT3 RS sports car, the title defender took off from pole to immediately settle in at front of the pack.
Start, René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
While his pursuers battled for positions behind him, at times at loggerheads with each other, the winner of the season-opening round in Bahrain concentrated on extending his lead lap by lap.
Sean Edwards (GB), René Rast (D), Robert Lukas (PL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
With this, he continued on from his strong showing in qualifying, in which he snubbed his rivals by clocking a stunning lap time. His third victory in Valencia after 2009 and 2010 was never under threat.
Nicki Thiim (DK) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
Behind the Monaco winner Sean Edwards, Robert Lukas put in a surprising drive at the eventful race. Third place marks the first podium result in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup for the Pole, but he profited in the final lap from a spin by his compatriot ahead of him, Kuba Giermaziak (VERVA Racing Team). The incident threw the two-time season winner from last year back into fifth place behind Frenchman Kévin Estre (Hermes Attempto Racing).
Robert Lukas (PL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
The second rude awakening then came after the race: Due to a jumped start, Kuba Giermaziak as well as Kèvin Estre, Norbert Siedler, Christian Engelhart, Alessandro Zampedri and Mateusz Lisowksi were subsequently handed a 30-second time penalty by the stewards of the meeting. This jumbled the results dramatically with points’ leader Norbert Siedler suffering the worst consequences: The VELTINS Lechner Racing pilot from Austria was only classified as eleventh and as a result lost his points’ lead. Germany’s Christian Engelhart, who had travelled to Valencia ranking second overall and after a drive-through penalty was classified as eighth at the finish line, was then shuffled back to 15th after his false start.
As the best Supercup newcomer, Nicki Thiim (Hermes Attempto Racing) saw the flag in fourth place. With his performance he replaces Germany’s Michael Ammermüller (VELTINS Lechner Racing) at the head of the rookie classification.
René Rast (winner):
René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
“That was a perfect race. Taking off from first and finishing in first – it doesn’t get better than that. There was quite a melee behind me with some competitors, and that gave me the chance to build on my lead in the first lap. I then tried to drive consistently quick lap times and not be too hard on my tyres. That worked. Thank you to my team for putting a perfectly prepared car on the track for me today.”
Sean Edwards (second):
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
“What a crazy race. My start was actually quite good, but suddenly Christian Engelhart pulled alongside, and then came Kévin Estre. It was pretty tough going in the early phase. And because I had to go hard at that point, I was happy that I could conserve my tyres a little later on. For the championship second place is a great result.”
Robert Lukas (third):
Robert Lukas (PL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup GP Europa – Valencia 2012
“It’s great to stand on the podium in third. Everything ran perfectly today. I took it real easy on my tyres early on and then the car became increasingly faster. Things really went well for us. The entire team has worked so hard over the last months for such a result, and I want to thank them very much for that.”
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Race result
1. René Rast (D), Lechner Racing Team, 30:40.893 minutes
2. Sean Edwards (GB), Konrad Motorsport, + 11.539 seconds
3. Robert Lukas (PL), FÖRCH Racing, + 17.643
4. Nicki Thiim (DK), Hermes Attempto Racing, + 26.975
5. Philipp Eng (A), MRS GT Racing, + 30.511
6. Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (NL), Team Bleekemolen + 35.350
Points’ standings after 5 of 10 races * Drivers
1. Sean Edwards (GB), Konrad Motorsport, 61 points
2. Norbert Siedler (A), VELTINS Lechner Racing, 59
3. René Rast (D), Lechner Racing Team, 58
4. Christian Engelhart (D), Konrad Motorsport, 49
5. Kévin Estre (F), Hermes Attempto Racing, 47
6. Kuba Giermaziak (PL), VERVA Racing Team, 36
* The race in Barcelona was cancelled. However, the extra points for pole position were still awarded.
Silverstone: Preview for the 6th of 10 races on 8 July
On the Silverstone Circuit, one of the world’s most storied race tracks, the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup heads into the second half of the season. Drivers rave about the ultra fast circuit, whose legendary corners Copse, Stowe and Brooklands provide a unique challenge. Last year victory went to title defender René Rast. This time, local hero Sean Edwards is eager to win the race in his native country after claiming victory at his adopted home of Monaco and to improve his title chances. TV stations Eurosport and Sky broadcast the race live.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
In the end it was Sean Edwards (Team Deutsche Post by tolimit) who clinched a flag-to-flag victory.
With a 0.9-second advantage over Frenchman Kévin Estre (Hermes Attempto Racing) in second, the vice-champion of last year brought his 450 hp Porsche 911 GT3 Cup over the finish line in first place.
Kévin Estre (F), Sean Edwards (GB), René Rast (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Third position went to René Rast (Team Deutsche Post by tolimit – Team Pole Promotion), who was able to extend his lead in Germany’s fastest one-make series after his victory at yesterday’s season-opening race.
Kévin Estre (F), Sean Edwards (GB), René Rast (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Making a superb getaway from the pole, Sean Edwards immediately took the lead and initially pulled slightly clear of his pursuers – but it didn’t take long for Carrera Cup newcomer Kévin Estre and seasoned campaigner René Rast to set out after the leader, taking turns in setting one fastest race lap after the other.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
But only once did the pursuers seem to have a slight chance when Edwards ran wide in the final corner. He briefly left the track but managed to rejoin the race. Edwards kept his cool all the way to the flag to claim his first win of the season. Estre finished in second place which also puts him second in the rookie classification.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Behind the leading three came two other makes cup professionals. In fourth place was Nicki Thiim. Driving for Hermes Attempto Racing, the Dane came under no pressure from behind but was unable to catch the top trio.
Nicki Thiim (DK) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
The same applied to Dutchman Jaap van Lagen (FE-Racing by Land-Motorsport), who brought home a secure fifth place and collected crucial points.
Jaap van Lagen (NL) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Austria’s Norbert Siedler, points’ leader of the international Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup, repeated his result from race one securing sixth place. Starting from ninth on the grid, the Konrad Motorsport pilot made up three places through overtaking manoeuvres. Siedler stuck to the rear of Nicolas Armindo’s Attempto Racing Porsche over several laps.
When the Frenchman overtook guest driver Jeroen Mul (NED, Team Bleekemolen), Siedler grabbed his chance, stuck close on Armindo’s bumper, and slipped by as well. In his perfectly set-up 911, Siedler then proceeded to bag the Frenchman. The 2010 Carrera Cup champion finished seventh. Philipp Eng (Austria, MRS GT-Racing), Michael Ammermüller (Germany, SWITCH IT Lechner Racing) and Jeroen Mul trailed in positions eight to ten respectively.
The two Porsche Juniors concluded a rather uneventful race just shy of the top ten. Michael Christensen (Denmark, Konrad Motorsport) came 12th, with Austria’s Klaus Bachler (Team Deutsche Post by tolimit) finishing 13th.
On 30 April, the Monday after the race weekend, news station N24 televises the 30-minute “Porsche Carrera Cup Magazin” at 18.30 hours. Sport1 broadcasts Carrera Cup highlights on Tuesday, 1 May, from 16.30 to 17.00 hours.
Sean Edwards (winner):
“What a race! I nailed the start perfectly and managed to edge away from the field. But then Kévin caught me so I had to push to extend the gap. But he came again. This game went on over the entire time. It was really exhausting. With my two pole positions from the first two Hockenheim races I should have been able to bring home two wins. But I’m happy that at least today worked out well after yesterday’s bad luck. I’m hoping to fight for the title this year.”
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Kévin Estre (second):
“I’m very pleased to climb the podium. My car was consistent from the start to the flag and this was the key to success. But I had to drive at the limit every second in order not to lose contact to Sean and to stay out of René’s way. So it’s all the more satisfying not to have made a mistake. My goal now is to be just as quick at the next round on the Lausitzring.”
Kévin Estre (F) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
René Rast (third):
“I’m very satisfied – victory for Sean and third for me. What a great team result. Yesterday’s win and today’s result gave me a very good start in the team. Third was all I could manage today. I was absolutely at the limit and I think the other two were as well. It’s great to head home from the first race weekend leading the points.”
Sean Edwards (GB), René Rast (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Michael Christensen (Porsche Junior, 12th):
“Again my start was good, but unfortunately I was on the wrong side for the first corner. All in all it was a good race, and I made no mistakes. But we had problems with the car set-up, I didn’t have enough grip. Obviously I wanted to achieve more but I’m happy with my performance.”
Klaus Bachler (Porsche Junior, 13th):
“I had new tyres today and I actually expected more. But I have to admit that I made a few mistakes in the race and we just weren’t fast enough today. Now we have to analyse why I was not able to fully utilise my new tyres but at least I made it to the flag. I earned points and we continue next week. There we should take a step forward.”
Race 2 result
1. Sean Edwards (GB), Team Deutsche Post by tolimit, 31:13.046 minutes
2. Kévin Estre (F), Hermes Attempto Racing, + 0.991 seconds
3. René Rast (D), Team Deutsche Post by tolimit/Pole Promotion, + 2.334
4. Nicki Thiim (DK), Hermes Attempto Racing, + 8.478
5. Jaap van Lagen (NL), FE-Racing by Land-Motorsport, + 9.465
6. Norbert Siedler (A), Konrad Motorsport, + 18.990
7. Nicolas Armindo (F), Attempto Racing, + 13.607
8. Philipp Eng (A), MRS GT-Racing, + 18.545
9. Michael Ammermüller (D), SWITCH IT by Lechner Racing, + 19.721
10. Jeroen Mul (NL), Team Bleekemolen, + 21.266
Points’ standings after 2 of 17 races Driver
1. René Rast (D), 36 points
2. Nicolas Armindo (F), 27
3. Jaap van Lagen (NL), 26
4. Michael Ammermüller (D), 23
5. Nicki Thiim (DK), 23
Teams
1. Team Deutsche Post by tolimit, 56 points
2. Hermes Attempto Racing, 41
3. Attempto Racing, 33
Rookie classification:
1. Philipp Eng (A), MRS GT-Racing, 20
2. Kévin Estre (F), Hermes Attempto Racing, 18
3. Michael Christensen (DK), Konrad Motorsport, 12
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Preview for races 3 and 4 of 17 at the Lausitzring
Already this coming weekend, the Carrera Cup Deutschland heads to the Lausitzring, which is famous for its impressive main grandstand, for races 3 and 4. On the interesting 3.478 kilometre Lausitzring, Nicki Thiim celebrated his first victory in Germany’s fastest makes cup a year ago. Sean Edwards climbed the podium in second. After the first two races of the season, René Rast travels to the Lausitz region topping the points table.
Perfect start to the season for Porsche customer teams
(l.-r.): Olaf Manthey, Raymond Narac, Patrick Pilet, Marco Holzer, Nick Tandy, Marco Mapelli, Archie Hamilton
Stuttgart. Two races, two wins: the European customer teams headed into the new International GT Open season with great success.
(l.-r.): Marco Holzer, Nick Tandy, Raymond Narac
The big winners of the race weekend were Porsche works driver Marco Holzer (Germany) and Nick Tandy (Great Britain) driving for Manthey Racing. In the Autodromo do Algarve, the German-British duo won the 70 kilometre race on Saturday as well as the 20 kilometre shorter sprint on Sunday in the 911 GT3 RSR, the top model of Porsche customer racing.
(l.-r.): Marco Holzer, Nick Tandy, Patrick Pilet, Marco Mapelli, Archie Hamilton
A triple victory to Porsche at Sunday’s race crowned the season-opening weekend. 35 vehicles from eleven different marques were at the start.
The French IMSA Matmut Performance team were delighted with their second place on Sunday. At the wheel of the 911 GT3 RSR, factory pilot Patrick Pilet and team boss Raymond Narac (both France) shared driving duties.
Position three went to the Italian outfit Autorlando Sport, who contests the series with the Porsche 911 GT3 RSR. At the same time, this handed the Italians victory in the GTS class which is based on the FIA GT3 regulations. The 911 GT3 RSR competes in the Super GT class which is for more powerful vehicles and is based on the FIA GT2 regulations.
“It’s just fantastic to kick off the new season with maximum points,” says a thrilled Marco Holzer.
Particularly on Saturday, the 22-year-old and his 28-year-old teammate Tandy, both GT Open rookies, gave a brilliant performance. Shortly before the start a rain shower flooded the race track. Holzer drove the first stint.
“It was very difficult not to make a mistake on the extremely wet then drying track. When Nick took over the cockpit it wasn’t really ideal for slicks. But he drove his stint perfectly.”
In Sunday’s race, the experience of team principal Olaf Manthey made itself apparent once again. Although the track was still wet, he sent Tandy out into the race on slicks. Whilst some of the opponents were still running wet tyres and lost time due to the extra pit stop, the German-911 kept racing.
“That was the key to success,” said Nick Tandy, the reigning champion of the Carrera Cup Deutschland, proudly.
With satisfaction, the French IMSA Matmut Performance squad also travels back to their team base in Rouen. Fourth at the first race and position two in the second – a good start to the season.
“It didn’t go perfectly for us in race one,” summed up Patrick Pilet. “Our set-up wasn’t the best and we were happy with fourth. Today went better for us. At the start our 911 proved difficult to drive. We didn’’t have enough tyre pressure for the track conditions. But it all came together towards the end of the race.”
Patrick Pilet
Autorlando Sport were also completely satisfied with third in the overall classification and victory in the GTS class as well as with the excellent job of both pilots Archie Hamilton (Great Britain) and Marco Mapelli (Italy). The Italians have notched up the most experience in the International GT Open.
Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, Autorlando Sport: Marco Mapelli, Archie Hamilton
From 2008 to 2011, the Italians clinched vice-championship honours in the GTS category. The Spanish Drivex School team secured 13th place in the first race and eleventh in the second at the season-opening weekend with the 911 GT3 RSR.
Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, Drivex School: Miguel Amaral, Miguel Angel de Castro
The cockpit of the new 911 was shared by Drivex owner Miguel Angel de Castro (Spain) and the Portuguese gentleman driver Miguel Pais do Amaral.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
On the series’ website www.gtopen.net, the International GT Open provides Live-Timing and also Live-Streaming. The respective schedules, points’ standings and further information are also available there.
Result race 1
1. Holzer/Tandy (D/GB), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 1:10.59.359 hours
2. Broniszewski/Peter (PL/A), Ferrari 458 GT Italia, + 7.6 seconds
3. Bizzarri/Cadei (I/I), Ferrari 458 Italia GT3, + 25.343
4. Narac/Pilet (F/F), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, + 25.977
Race three and four of the International GT Open will be run on 25 to 27 May on the Nürburgring.
This is the International GT Open
Inaugurated in 2006, the International GT Open features two races per weekend with identical points’ allocation – the first race on Saturday runs over 70 minutes, the second on Sunday over 50. Two drivers share the cockpit. A handicap system ensures more suspense at the head of the field. The top three drivers of each race are handed a 15, ten or five second penalty respectively for the following race. The calendar of the race series includes eight races on selective circuits like Silverstone, Spa-Francorchamps and the Nürburgring.
One of the keys to success in the International GT Open is the stable technical regulations and the capping of costs, for instance through control tyres. The grid is divided into two classes, the stronger Super GT category and the GTS class.
Super GT: This class is based on the FIA GT2 regulations – the 911 GT3 RSR competes here. The particularly efficient six-cylinder boxer engine in the International GT Open version delivers significantly more than 500 hp.
. GTS: Based on the FIA GT3 regulations. The Porsche 911 GT3 R is fielded here, now delivering 500 hp after the new model year underwent improvements.
In 2007, Autorlando Sport won the overall classification for drivers and teams with Porsche works driver Richard Lietz (Austria) and Joel Camathias from Switzerland.
Nicolas Armindo (F), René Rast (D), Michael Ammermüller (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Stuttgart. A perfect start to the season for René Rast (Germany).
René Rast (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
The one-make cup professional driving for Team Deutsche Post by tolimit – Team Pole Promotion won the first race of the Carrera Cup Deutschland in Hockenheim with an 8.851-second advantage.
Nicolas Armindo (F) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Second place went to Frenchman Nicolas Armindo (Attempto Racing). After a weak season last year, the 2010 champion has kicked of his 2012 campaign impressively.
Michael Ammermüller (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Michael Ammermüller (SWITCH IT Lechner Racing) from Germany was overjoyed with his third spot on the podium. Germany’s fastest one-brand series is contested with identical Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racers.
Nicolas Armindo (F), René Rast (D), Michael Ammermüller (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
The 450 hp GT race car is based on the lightweight street-legal 911 GT3 RS sports car.
Sean Edwards (GB) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Taking up the race from pole position, Sean Edwards (Team Deutsche Post by tolimit) won the sprint to the first corner. The Briton lost his lead briefly to French newcomer Kévin Estre (Hermes Attempto Racing), but the stalwart quickly grabbed it back.
Kévin Estre (F) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Last year’s vice-champion drove a controlled race at the head of the field followed by his teammate René Rast and managed to pull clear of his pursuers bit by bit – until tyre damage in lap six threw him out of contention.
Michael Ammermüller celebrated a brilliant debut with position three after the ex-Formula 1 test driver narrowly missed out on a podium spot last weekend clinching fourth at the Porsche Supercup round in Bahrain.
Jaap van Lagen (NL) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Behind the Lechner pilot, Jaap van Lagen (FE-Racing by Land-Motorsport) came fourth over the finish line. The Dutchman, who made up one position on his qualifying result, was one of the six race winners last year with his victory at Spielberg in Austria.
Philipp Eng (A) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Philipp Eng was the surprise of the day in fifth. Driving for MRS GT-Racing, the Austrian has experience in a Carrera Cup race from one event as a guest starter at the 2011 finale in Hockenheim. With his fifth place, the youngster who has also tested a Formula 1 car, planted himself at the head of the newly-created rookie classification in the Carrera Cup.
Norbert Siedler (A) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Behind him came his compatriot Norbert Siedler, the current leader of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. After experiencing a difficult practice session, the Konrad Motorsport pilot was satisfied with his success in gaining ground and the first point.
Nicki Thiim (DK) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
The Dane Nicki Thiim (Hermes Attempto Racing) clinched seventh place ahead of newcomer Elia Erhart (Marschall Goebel Racing).
Elia Erhart (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
The Porsche Juniors, Klaus Bachler and Michael Christensen, made a good start to the season. Driving for the Deutsche Post by tolimit squad, the Austrian was running in eighth place when he had to pit with tyre problems. After a change of tyres, 20-year-old Bachler rejoined the race far down the field, but was able to match the pace of the frontrunners and saw the flag in 17th.
Klaus Bachler (A) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Driving for Konrad Motorsport, Denmark’s Klaus Bachler lost the front lip of his 911 in the turmoil of the race. Despite the heavy understeer that resulted from this, the 21-year-old still managed to bring home ninth place from his debut race.
Michael Christensen (DK) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
The grid line-up for race two on Sunday is determined by the fastest lap time from the qualifying session. Sean Edwards and Jaap van Lagen start from the first row, with Kévin Estre and René Rast sharing the second.
Taking up Sunday’s race from the third grid row are Nicki Thiim and Philipp Eng.
The race tomorrow starts at 9.30 hrs and is broadcast live on the official Porsche website (www.porsche.com) in high-quality – with editorial clips prior to the actual live-streaming, live-timing and commentary in German and English. On 30 April, the Monday after the race weekend, news station N24 televises the 30-minute “Porsche Carrera Cup Magazin” at 18.30 hours. Sport1 broadcasts Carrera Cup highlights on Tuesday, 1 May, from 16.30 to 17.00 hours.
René Rast (D) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
René Rast (winner):
“I’m of course extremely happy with my race. I started from third on the grid and won. I had a little bit of race luck on my side, which was at the same time a shame for my teammate Sean and our squad. We don’t yet know where the tyre damage came from, but we still have a chance to secure a good team result tomorrow.”
Nicolas Armindo (F) Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Nicolas Armindo (second):
“It feels great to climb the podium again. It’s been a long time coming. I was certainly not the fastest today, but with some cleverness and a little luck it was enough for a podium result.”
Michael Ammermüller (third):
“I’m happy to have come from eighth and finished third at my first race. I hadn’t expected that. I had anticipated at best fifth place. I’m sure I had Lady Luck on my side today, but my car was also really well set-up.”
Michael Christensen (Porsche Junior, ninth):
“After a difficult qualifying we managed to find a good race set-up for my car. I thought the start would be hard but it went really well. I got caught up in traffic, the front lip of my 911 ripped off in the turmoil and had to contend with understeer. I then had to cope with a puncture towards the end. So I told myself, just take it easy and get to the finish.”
Klaus Bachler (Porsche Junior, 17th):
“My start wasn’t that great, but afterwards I drove a steady race. I waited for the drivers in front of me to make a mistake and then made the most of it. In this way I could move up the field and was even running in eighth when a tyre problem forced me into the pits.”
Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland - 01 Hockenheimring 2012
Race 1 result
1. René Rast (D), Team Deutsche Post by tolimit/Pole Promotion, 24:27.506 minutes
2. Nicolas Armindo (F), Attempto Racing, + 8.851 seconds
3. Michael Ammermüller (D), SWITCH IT Lechner Racing, + 10.772
4. Jaap van Lagen (NL) FE-Racing by Land-Motorsport, + 13.446
5. Philipp Eng (A), MRS GT-Racing, + 14.151
6. Norbert Siedler (A), Konrad Motorsport, + 18.990
7. Nicki Thiim (DK), Hermes Attempto Racing, + 22.755
8. Elia Erhart (D), Marschall Goebel Racing, + 27.711
9. Michael Christensen (DK), Konrad Motorsport, + 35.981
10. Thomas Pivoda (CZ), Konrad Motorsport, + 38.091
Points’ standings after 1 of 17 races Driver
1. René Rast (D), 20 points
2. Nicolas Armindo (F), 18
3. Michael Ammermüller (D), 16
4. Jaap van Lagen (NL), 14
5. Philipp Eng (A), 12
Teams
1. Deutsche Post by tolimit, 24 points
2. Attempto Racing, 18
3. Konrad Motorsport, 17
Stuttgart. Pole position, fastest race lap, victory and points lead – round two of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup couldn’t have gone better for Austria’s Norbert Siedler of VELTINS Lechner Racing.
Norbert Siedler (A) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
In a repeat of his lightning start at the season-opener the previous day, he led the field to the first corner in his 450 hp Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, which is based on the lightweight road-legal 911 GT3 RS sports car, and edged away from the field lap for lap. Siedler shared the podium with Christian Engelhart (Konrad Motorsport) and the winner of Saturday’s race, René Rast (Lechner Racing).
Podium Rennen 2: Christian Engelhart (D), Norbert Siedler (A), René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Christian Engelhart also made a virtually perfect start from position three on the grid and managed to outpace René Rast.
Christian Engelhart (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Early on in the race, Engelhart could shadow Siedler, but the Austrian then pulled away further. Only in the final phase of the race could Engelhart catch the leader, but he wasn’t close enough to launch a serious attack over the remainder of the race.
Norbert Siedler (A), Walter Lechner, René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Rast lost contact to the two frontrunners early on but he didn’t come under any threat from his pursuers.
René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
With his win, Siedler moves into the lead of the points in the world’s fastest international one-make cup.
Kuba Giermaziak (PL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Estre’s teammate, Nicki Thiim, also duelled with Giermaziak for quite some time, but finally had to give in and settle sixth place.
Start Rennen 2 Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
With this, Thiim was the best newcomer which put him at the top of the rookie classification. Also giving an impressive performance was former DTM pilot Renger van der Zande (Konrad Motorsport) who took up the race from the tenth grid spot and moved up through the field to finish seventh.
Nicki Thiim (DK) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (Team Bleekemolen), as well as Patryk Szczerbinski (VERVA Racing Team) as the youngest driver in the field at 18, and Stefan Rosina (FÖRCH Racing) finished in position eight to ten respectively.
Renger van der Zande (NL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Fifth in qualifying, Sean Edwards (Konrad Motorsport), was forced into the pits when his right rear tyre valve tore off after contact with another competitor and he fell back to 14th place.
Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (NL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Ex-Formula 1 test driver Michael Ammermüller (VELTINS Lechner Racing) as well as Robert Lukas (Hermes Attempto Racing) touched in lap four. Lukas was able to continue albeit with the stewards of the race handing him a 30-second time penalty. Ammermüller, however, had to let his mechanics fix his loose rear apron which threw him back into 15th position.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Norbert Siedler (winner):
“That was great! My start was much better than yesterday’s. I managed to control the race over the first seven laps, but in the last three my tyres were deteriorating badly. We need to improve this for the next race in Barcelona.”
Norbert Siedler (A) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Bahrain 2012
Christian Engelhart (second):
“I drove on new tyres today, yesterday’s were used and that makes a huge different on this circuit. My start was great and I was able to get around René Rast on the outside. I could catch up to Norbert towards the end but I wasn’t able to really go for him anymore. To do this, the race would have had to be a little longer. I’m very satisfied with the weekend in Bahrain. I’m now sitting in a good position for the championship.”
René Rast (third):
“I think that was the most we could get out of today with used tyres. I couldn’t do anything with the leaders and I had no pressure from behind, so it was a somewhat quiet race for me.”
Race result
1. Norbert Siedler (A), VELTINS Lechner Racing, 20:55.702 minutes
2. Christian Engelhart (D), Konrad Motorsport, +0.654 seconds
3. René Rast (D), Lechner Racing, +8.086
4. Kévin Estre (F), Hermes Attempto Racing, +10.693
5. Kuba Giermaziak (PL), VERVA Racing, +10.880
6. Nicki Thiim (DK), Hermes Attempto Racing, +14.527
7. Renger van der Zande (NL), Konrad Motorsport, +17.654
8. Sebastiaan Bleekemolen (NL), Team Bleekemolen, +18.124
9. Patryk Szczerbinski (PL), VERVA Racing, +26.315
10. Stefan Rosina (SK), FÖRCH Racing, +30.063
Points’ standings after 2 of 10 races Driver
1. Norbert Siedler (A), VELTINS Lechner Racing, 40 points
2. René Rast (D), Lechner Racing, 36
3. Christian Engelhart (D), Konrad Motorsport, 30
4. Sean Edwards (GB), Konrad Motorsport, 21
5. Kévin Estre (F), Hermes Attempto Racing, 21
Teams
1. VELTINS Lechner Racing, 53 points
2. Konrad Motorsport, 52
3. Lechner Racing, 45
Rookie classification
1. Nicki Thiim (DK), Hermes Attempto Racing, 19 points
2. Michael Ammermüller (D), VELTINS Lechner Racing, 16
3. Renger van der Zande (NL), Konrad Motorsport, 14
Preview for the 3rd of 10 races, 12/13 May in Barcelona
As points’ leader, Norbert Siedler travels to round three of the season on the outskirts of the Spanish city of Barcelona. From the 16 races run on the demanding Circuit de Catalunya since 1993, there have been 16 different winners. Last year’s winner Sean Edwards could be the first pilot to achieve a second victory, or even the 2010 winner Norbert Siedler. TV stations Eurosport and Sky broadcast the race live.
Stuttgart. Twenty years of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup: The anniversary season of the world’s fastest international one-make race series takes off with a double-header round on 21 and 22 April on the Bahrain International Circuit.
Heading into the season as title favourite is reigning champion René Rast from Germany with the 450 hp Porsche 911 GT3 Cup fielded by Lechner Racing. Rast is looking forward to returning to the desert nation. “The last time I competed in Bahrain I won both races. I’ll be doing everything within my power to repeat that result this year,” says the Supercup champion of 2010 and 2011.
René Rast (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Deutschland 2011
As the flagship series of the 19 Porsche one-make championships worldwide, the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup boasts a healthy grid line-up again this season. “
We have a balanced field and we’re also looking forward to welcoming some new teams into the Supercup family,”
says Jonas Krauss, Head of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup at Porsche Motorsport.
“Onboard are some eager young newcomers like Jeroen Mul coming from Formula 3, Renger van der Zande who contested the DTM in 2011, and ex-Formula 1 test driver Michael Ammermüller. This underlines once more just how attractive the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup is as a spring board for a successful GT career or as a challenge for seasoned professionals.”
In Kévin Estre, the Supercup rookies have a shining example.
Kevin Estre (F) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Italien 2011
The Frenchman turned heads last year with his strong performances, not only claiming the Rookie of the Year title but also celebrating his first Supercup victory in Monza.
Kevin Estre (F) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Italien 2011
Now he is back as one of the hot favourites at the wheel of his Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, which is based on the lightweight 911 GT3 RS sports car.
Joining Kévin Estre (Hermes Attempto Racing) to throw a spanner in René Rast’s plans for a hat-trick are Austria’s Norbert Siedler (VELTINS Lechner Racing), Sean Edwards from Great Britain (Konrad Motorsport) as well as the VERVA Racing pilot Kuba Giermaziak.
Kuba Giermaziak (PL) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup Italien 2011
Last year, the Pole dominated in Budapest, becoming the first eastern European winner in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and went on to claim victory from the Spa-Francorchamps round. Another name on the list of title aspirants is Germany’s Christian Engelhart (Konrad Motorsport), winner of the 2011 season-opener in Istanbul.
Christian Engelhart (D) Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup 2011
Denmark’s Nicki Thiim (Hermes Attempto Racing) is also a force to be reckoned with. The son of former DTM champion Kurt Thiim attracted attention last year with his strong performance in the German Carrera Cup.
Also making the switch from Germany’s most popular race series is the new Supercup team FÖRCH Racing.
The Porsche 911 GT3 Cup racers that are fielded in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup come off the assembly line in Porsche’s Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen plant and receive the final touches in the motorsport department at Weissach. All vehicles are technically identical. An important new feature of the 2012-spec is a 100-litre FT3 safety fuel tank.
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
“The competition in the series has rarely been this high,” states Jonas Krauss at the start of the anniversary season. And he fully expects the fight for the championship to be as exciting as it was last year: Heading to the final round in 2011, six competitors still had the chance to claim the title.
The season-opening race in Bahrain is broadcast live by TV stations Eurosport and Sky – race 1 on 21 April at 11.20 hrs (Sky) and 11.30 hrs (Eurosport 2), race 2 on 22 April at 11.00 hrs (Sky and Eurosport 2). Eurosport also televises highlights at midnight on Sunday in its “Motorsport Weekend Magazin” programme.
Something we all didn’t expect to stumble upon today: On 11 April 2012, the famed Nardò Technical Center with its high-speed ring in southern Italy will soon have a new owner as the Porsche Engineering Group announced that it would take over the facility from its current landlord Prototipo SpA in May. Italy’s famed high speed test track, located at more than 20 kilometres (12 mi) north-west of the town of Nardò, Italy, in the southern region of Apulia, in the province of Lecce.
Neither Porsche nor the track’s former owner, Italy’s Prototipo SpA, will say how much the deal went for, we can only guess. Porsche has been a regular at the circuit, along with other manufacturers.
Nardo Ring, Italy The Nardo Ring is a striking visual feature from space, and astronauts have photographed it several times. The Ring is a race car test track that is steeply banked to reduce the amount of active steering needed by drivers. The Ring lies in a remote area on the heel of Italy's "boot," east of the naval port of Taranto and encompasses a number of active (green) and fallow (brown to dark brown) agricultural fields. In this zone of intensive agriculture, farmers gain access to their fields through the Ring via a series of underpasses. Winding features within the southern section of the Ring appear to be smaller, unused race tracks. Image Credit: NASA/GSFC/METI/ERSDAC/JAROS, and U.S./Japan ASTER Science Team
The automotive proving ground that can be seen from space covers an area of more than 700 hectares and comprises a 6.2-kilometer (3.9 miles) long handling circuit, a 12.5-kilometer (7.8 miles) long oval circuit and facilities for simulating different road surfaces and changeable weather condition.
“The Nardò proving ground with its high-speed and vehicle handling circuit ideally complements our facilities in Weissach,” said Matthias Müller, President and CEO of Porsche AG.
“With the systematic development of the company in Nardò as part of Strategy 2018, Porsche is proving to be a reliable employer and business partner in Apulia as well.”
Porsche said that it plans to optimize the test facilities and make them available to its clients for testing and trials purposes.
“With its rich array of facilities, from dynamic surfaces to acoustic and off-road sections coupled with the numerous workshops, our clients can continue to make extensive use of Nardò for their vehicle trials in the future as well,” said Malte Radmann, CEO of Porsche Engineering.
Thanks to the mild Mediterranean weather, the track can be used throughout the year in three shifts around the clock, seven days a week.
The ring is banked to such a degree that, on the track’s outer lane, cars can travel 150 miles per hour. Presumably, that’s what Porsche will be doing with it—that, and loan it out to their co-members of the VW Group. We’re guessing Lamborghini and other brands will want to spend as much time there as they can.
Most of us are aware that Porsche is developing their next supercar model which is the 918 Spyder and it will be the world’s first hybrid supercar. Porsche has built three prototypes until now and recently, the German automaker invited the guys from Wired magazine to test drive one of them on the Nardo Ring high speed test track in Italy this last March..
Porsche 918 Prototype testing at Nardo Ring
The car may not look much or complete right now but it was in bits and pieces a few weeks ago and Porsche managed to assign a team to assemble the parts in time for the test drive on the Nardo Ring.
Porsche will use the Nardo Ring to test future models and rent to other makers for development
The track is 12.5 kilometres (7.8 mi) long and is round, has four lanes for cars and motorcycles totaling 16 metres (52 ft) in width and has a separate inner ring for trucks at a width of 9 metres (30 ft).
In the cars/motorcycle ring the lanes are banked at such a degree that a driver in the outer most lane need not turn the wheel while driving at speeds of up to 240 km/h (149 mph). In essence, at the so called neutral speed which is different for the four lanes, one can drive as if in a straight lane. However extremely fast cars still require the steering wheel to be turned when going faster than the maximum neutral speed.
For example the Koenigsegg CCRwhich set a speed record for a production car at the Nardò Ring did so with the steering wheel at a 30° angle. This speed record has since been beaten by the Bugatti Veyron at Volkswagen Group‘s private Ehra-Lessien straight line test track in Germany, and hence the CCR only holds the speed record for the Nardò Ring.
An example of a Highspeed racing in Italy on the Nardo racetrack
In the process of fighting a turn as needed when going faster than the neutral speed quite a bit of potential top speed is lost and hence a fast car will go faster in a straight line than what is possible on the Nardó Ring.
Even at the neutral speed in a banked turn a car runs a bit heavier than it would in a straight line, since the downforce created by the banking increases the rolling resistance on the tires. There has only been one fatality at the ring.
The neutral speed for the four car/motorcycle lanes are respectively:
Lane 1 – 100 km/h (62 mph)
Lane 2 – 140 km/h (87 mph)
Lane 3 – 190 km/h (118 mph)
Lane 4 – 240 km/h (149 mph)
During regular weekly working activity the maximum speed allowed on the circular track is 240 km/h (149 mph). Higher speeds are only allowed at times when a client gets the track for its exclusive use.
The neutral speed for the truck ring is between 80 km/h (50 mph) and 140 km/h (87 mph) over the width of the track, highest in the outer most part of the lane.
Press Release – Cayenne GTS with 420 hp and sporty chassis – Sitting like in an SUV, driving like in a sports car: the Cayenne GTS
Porsche Cayenne GTS
Stuttgart. The SUV with the driving fun of a sports car is entering its second generation. In Beijing, at the Auto China 2012, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is celebrating the world premiere of the new Cayenne GTS.
Its concept: concentration on sporty performance.
Its recipe: a more powerful engine, more dynamic power development, a tauter chassis with lower ride height, emphatically sporty equipment. In the process, the new Cayenne GTS doesn’t just fill the gap between the Cayenne S and the Cayenne Turbo but also differentiates itself clearly from the other models with its own special character.
The Cayenne GTS’s bonnet conceals a 420 hp (309 kW) uprated V8 engine, based on the Cayenne S power unit. Power transmission is ensured by the eight-speed Tip-tronic S with integrated auto start/stop function.
Porsche Cayenne GTS
An especially dynamically tuned en-gine and transmission design reinforces the emphatically sporty characteristics, ena-bling short bursts of speed at any time. The Cayenne GTS sprints from a standing start to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, reaching 160 km/h in 13.3 seconds. The top speed is 261 km/h and the NEDC fuel consumption 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres.
The specially tuned chassis ensures thrilling driving dynamics. It is more tautly tuned, equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and lowers the body by 24 mm relative to the Cayenne S. As a result, the new Cayenne GTS is even closer to the road and moves with the sports car’s trademark composure and agility.
The Cayenne GTS’s looks openly proclaim its pronounced sportiness with eye-catching features such as the front-end borrowed from the Cayenne Turbo, frames and trims in high-gloss black, prominent side skirts and wider wheel arches as well as a distinctive roof spoiler with twin-wing profile. The prevailing ambiance of the inte-rior is sporty elegance, the GTS features a leather interior with Alcantara elements as standard. Front sports seats with eight adjustment options are also featured as stan-dard in the new Cayenne GTS.
The Cayenne GTS will come to market in July 2012 with a price tag in Germany of 90,774 euro including value-added tax.
Probably the Gmund 040, then used by Otto Mathe to tow his ice racer
