Andrew Hamilton reports on the industry
Hyundai has reported record first quarter net profits of €519 million, up from €244 million a year earlier. The increase was primarily driven by a 27 per cent growth in US sales. The US accounted for nearly one quarter of the 402,766 cars sold in all markets worldwide.
Subaru Imprezas were placed first, second and third in the recent Rally of the Lakes in Killarney so it's a propitious time for Subaru Ireland to launch its new Impreza 1.6RX. It has an ex-works price of €25,950 and in addition to the standard Specification comes with 17 inch alloy wheels in gold or silver; WRC type headlights, high spoiler and mesh grille; a new exhaust trim and new badging.
In all, 55.8 million new motor vehicles went on the world's roads last year. It sounds a lot but production was actually down on 2000 when 58.1 million were produced.
Old car enthusiasts will have an opportunity to see cars dating as far abck as 1889 next month, with the return of the Mercedes-Benz International Gordon Bennett rally. Up to 140 veteran and vintage models will be taking part during the weekend of 7,8 and 9 June, travelling from Dublin through Kildare and Offaly on a 100 mile route. According to Denis Dowdall, president of the Irish Veteran and Vintage Car Club, which organises the event, one of the participating cars is a Napier that won the 1902 Gordon Bennett race in France. This year is the 99th anniversary of the legendary race. The rally base is the Killashee House Hotel at Naas.
Useful accessories for the glove box are the 2002 100 Best Bridgestone Guides - the Bridgestone 100 Best Restaurants in Ireland and the Bridgestone 100 Best Places to Stay in Ireland. Produced by John and Sally McKenna, they are regarded as the leading guides to our food and hospitality culture. Published by the Estragon Press, they retail at €10 each.
Another publication that is a sort of coffee table book for motor cyclists, particularly those in the competitive sphere, is The Power and the Glory. The History of the North West 200. It is written by Alastair McCook and published by the Appletree Press. The book which is dedicated to the late Joey Dunlop, retails at €29.95 or £20 sterling. John Donald will be reviewing the book shortly in our Motorcycles section.