Kimi Raikkonen tests in #F1 R30 Renault for 2012 return (Video)

I’ve been pretty busy, so I haven’t had the time to finish some of the posts that I have in the queue. However, I didn’t want you guys to miss out on seeing some exciting Formula 1 news!

Since Kimi Raikkonen is returning to Formula 1 in 2012, Lotus has been able to prepare a pre-race test for the ‘Iceman’. Kimi spent the day driving a 2010 spec car with 2011 Pirelli tires, in order to get used to modern-F1 tires and help the 2007 get back up to speed more quickly.

Thrilling stuff to see a sixth world champion join the F1 Grid this year. I cannot wait for the season to start!

2012 Lotus Exige Commericial- Proof that Lotus Cars have lost their way…

Ever since Danny Behar took charge of Group Lotus, I’ve always believed that Lotus Cars have completely lost touch with their core audiences. In the quest to expand Lotus into a global presence,  Ibelieve that the current brand image has separated from the niche fundamental elements that once made Lotus great. It could be summed up in one phrase:

Performance through lightness.

However in 2011, this mantra is dead. Now much like other car manufacturers, Lotus cars are getting heavier and more cumbersome. Their marketing has become ridiculous, and now in my opinion, the current Lotus has devolved into just another generic car maker among many competitors.

This commercial reminds me of something made by Dodge, filled with useless metaphor and imagery. Something designed by marketing suits, rather than passionate enthusiasts

In my opinion, these cars are not true Lotus…

What do you think? Are you inspired by these new Lotus cars, or repelled? Let us know in the comments.

2012 IndyCar ProtoType- Thoughts? (Pictures and Video)

So in 2012, the IndyCar Racing Series is changing to a new chassis and aero formula. Designed by Dallara, you can see that the new rear pods are designed to increase safety.

However, the car does look like it designed out of Speed Racer. That’s really not a bad thing though. From what I’ve read, teams will have specialized aero configurations for road courses, street circuits and ovals, which should lead to some exciting racing. (More video and pictures after the jump)