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Green Wonders Since the last show in 2002, the organizers of the Singapore Motor Show wanted to showcase emerging green car technologies, and as a result, they dedicated a separate pavilion for that purpose. This year, there are more “green cars” on display including the all-new Toyota Prius and Honda Civic IMA hybrid cars—both using the a variation of the petrol/electric engine technology, and the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell. The most advanced on display, the F-Cell runs on hydrogen via a fuel cell system. Recently, 6 F-Cell cars have been turned over to the Singaporean government for further research and development of this alternative fuel source. On a side note, I have been given the chance to drive this one-of-a-kind F-Cell on the streets of Singapore. A Nod to the Classics Amidst all the latest model launches, Mercedes-Benz went a different route by giving Singaporeans their first chance to see “The Shining Silver Star”, a collection of 6 automobiles that defined the course of automotive design and engineering. The 6 automobiles, all in museum condition are the 1886 Benz Patent Motor Car, 1907 37/70 hp Mercedes, 8/20 1913 hp Mercedes, 1924 28/95 hp Mercedes, 1939 Mercedes-Benz 320 “streamliner”, and 1950 Mercedes-Benz 300 “Adenauer”. The 6 cars are presented in a space that mimics the look and feel of a proper museum. Fun and Entertainment And what’s a motor show without those skimpily clad girls? Various manufacturers gave their best in entertaining the crowd. Mazda brought the crowd to a standstill with their ‘Zoom-Zoom’ girls dance show. Meanwhile, Toyota’s affair is more family friendly with dozens of free balloons and giveaways. The main highlight though is the Russ Swift/Subaru Impreza stunt show. Held 3 times a day during weekends and holidays, world-renowned stunt driver and Guinness Book of World Records holder for fastest parallel parking, Russ Swift does high-speed power slides, donuts, multi-car dance routines, and of course high-speed parallel parking all using his Subaru Impreza. What’s Next? With so many cool concept cars and exotics, you probably can’t wait to pack your bags and head over to the Singapore Motor Show. But, before you do so, I’d like to tell you that the curtains will be closing 4 days from now. So, all you can do is wait for another 2 years. Or, if you can’t hold your breath that long, there’s the first-ever Manila Motor Show, another world-class automotive event slatted this coming April 28, 2005. The show, which will be held at the World Trade Center along Roxas Boulevard, will have a similar scope and depth as other motoring shows of the region. Interested parties who inquire about the Manila Motor Show may contact Worldbex International, Inc. at (63-2) 531-6374, 531-6350, 533-6988. Please look for Ms. Jill Ang. |
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