Ireland has released the prices and specifications for the allnew Volvo V70, which will be available in Ireland from October.

Prices start at 52,500 for the 2.5T and there are three specification levels . . . S, SE, and SE Lux.

Standard features include a unique 40/20/40 split, folding rear seat configuration, load adaptive rear lights, folding steel load protection grille, 3D cargo load system, lockable load floor, grocery bag holder, 12V power outlet in the cargo area and roof rails.

The car is initially offered with a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel engine. Manual transmission is standard except on the T6 AWD petrol models which are offered in the geartronic guise only.

The initial engine lineup will be added to in early 2008.

Beware of agricultural vehicles

THE Road Safety Authority and the Irish Farmers' Association have issued a joint warning to motorists to be extra careful during the summer and autumn.

Road users in general are being warned to expect an increase in the number of agricultural vehicles using the roads over these periods.

This is the busiest time of year for farmers as it coincides with silage and harvest season, with more tractors, trailers and other farm machinery exiting from fields and farmyards.

The appeal also reminds drivers of agricultural vehicles that they are governed by road traffic laws on driver licensing, insurance, standards in relation to vehicle roadworthiness, vehicle lighting, and motor tax.

For more information on legal requirements and road safety regarding agricultural vehicles using the public road, contact the RSA on 1890 50 60 80 or email info@rsa. ie.

Schumacher to race champions

MICHAEL Schumacher will take part in the 20th Race of Champions, a charity race that this year is being held in Wembley Stadium.

The 16 December tarmac event will also have many other racing stars performing on a custom-built race track competing against one another.

Schumacher took part in the 2004 event at Stade de France in Paris, where he beat World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb in a one-off challenge in front of over 62,000 fans, but missed out on the overall title to Renault's F1-driver Heikki Kovalainen.

The race is run to raise funds for and awareness of the Institute for Cerebral and Medullary Disorders.

Already announced for 2007 are Red Bull Racing's David Coulthard, Honda F1's Jenson Button, double FIA World Touring Car Champion Andy Priaulx, and 1995 World Rally Champion, Colin McRae.