A round-up of today's other stories in brief...
Electric defector
THE NUMBER of brands resisting the electric revolution just suffered another significant defection as Rolls Royce unveiled its 102EX electric-powered Phantom concept.
The firm is using the car as a test-bed for future research into a potential alternative for the brand. Current owners of its cars will be given test-drive opportunities in the electric car to gauge reaction.
While there are no plans to develop a production variant, a spokesman said it serves to kick-start a dialogue with its existing owners and stakeholders.
Motor show visitors come well-briefed
MORE THAN 18,000 visitors attended last weekend's Irish TimesMotor Show at the RDS, Dublin, seeking out their next purchase or just enjoying the new metal on display.
According to distributors operating the stands, the level of knowledge and the detailed questions from visitors underlined the fact that many were well-briefed on the issues and choices in the market at present, and they were not there merely to kick tyres.
With 18 of the major car brands displaying their latest model ranges – representing more than 84 per cent of the Irish new car market – there was a wide array of choice, along with a dedicated information area on the electric and hybrid models that are on the way. There was, of course, a dedicated section for more aspirational motoring, with Audi’s R15 Le Mans winner from last year taking pride of place, surrounded by a collection of Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghini and, outside the feature area, Audi’s new R8 e-Tron prototype – valued at €1.3 million.
TV3 back on the road
THE IRISH motoring show Xcceleratereturns to TV3 next Tuesday with new presenters Paddy Comyn, Kirsteen O'Sullivan and Alan Ennis.
The first show airs at 10.30pm with a wide variety of vehicles tested, from the affordable and practical to the most desirable models to hit the Irish streets in 2011.
The show also includes a look into the underworld of stolen cars in Ireland and a trip to Sweden for the MX5 ice race.
In next week’s show, Comyn visits the home of Aston Martin while O’Sullivan will be taking a look at what the VW Passat has to offer as a family car.