Take cover this Bank Holiday

Industry News

Incorrect or no cover could leave you out of pocket Check your breakdown cover before setting off Almost half of claims due to invalid policy Whatever the weather this Bank Holiday, it’s vital drivers make sure they have bought the right breakdown cover, says leading provider Start Rescue. Drivers cannot rely on taking out cover after they have had a breakdown – it is fraudulent to buy insurance to cover an event that has already occurred. In June 2024, where Start Rescue was unable to provide assistance, nearly half (45%) of these incidents were due to customers not having purchased a breakdown policy, so no cover was in place. A further 15% were because customers did not buy the correct cover to include Home Assist, while 11.5% were not covered for recovery miles above the 10-mile local tow limit. A further 16% were down to the car not having a valid MoT or road tax, both a legal requirement. “Customers buy a 10-mile local tow recovery policy because they don’t normally venture very far, but they will receive a huge shock if they travel a longer distance this Bank Holiday and can’t get the vehicle repaired local to the breakdown,” says Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue. He adds: “With many breakdown providers, once the mileage limit has been exceeded on a local tow policy, any extra miles plus additional call-outs for a relay if it’s a long distance will be payable by the customer. “At Start Rescue, we always try to find the most cost-effective solution for customers when service is limited or not covered by the policy that has been purchased, but sometimes these options become limited and expensive later in the day and into the evening.” It is essential to check your breakdown cover is still valid and upgrade if necessary before setting out this Bank Holiday. It can take 24 to 72 hours with some breakdown providers before new breakdown cover or a mid-term upgrade is active – potentially leaving drivers facing a big bill in the event of a breakdown. Always ensure you check the timings with your breakdown provider so cover is in place when you need it. Start Rescue requires just a 24-hour waiting period for a policy to be active or for any mid-term adjustment to become valid. Start Rescue has a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot, a five-star Defaqto* rating and has achieved Which? Recommended Provider status for five years running. Start Rescue has also been awarded best Breakdown Cover provider in the Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards 2024 (www.finder.com), scoring 4.9 out of 5 for overall satisfaction with a 94% recommendation rate. In the What Car? Survey of Best Breakdown Cover, Start Rescue came top for best response time, reaching 77% of call-outs in 30 minutes to an hour and didn’t leave anyone waiting for more than two hours. Start Rescue also won best in the survey for performing temporary repairs that let people continue with their journeys. Launched in 2009, Start Rescue is an integral part of the nation’s fourth largest breakdown and recovery service, Call Assist, which now has more than two million UK customers. For further breakdown advice, please visit startrescue.co.uk.

MG centenary celebrations to continue at Salon Privé 2024

Industry News

MG will continue its centenary celebrations at Salon Privé 2024 with a line-up that includes the sensational new MG Cyber GTS Concept, on show for one of the very first times following its surprise debut earlier this summer. It will appear alongside the MG Cyberster roadster, making one of its first appearances since arriving in showrooms earlier in August. MG 100th anniversary celebrations to continue at Salon Privé 2024 Stunning new electric MG Cyber GTS Concept to take a starring role Thrilling electric MG Cyberster roadster will also be showcased following rave reviews in the press Salon Privé 2024 at Blenheim Palace to be held on 28-31 August 19th year of Salon Privé in 2024: ‘The UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party’ Salon Privé tickets available at https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/ The MG Cyber GTS Concept became a sensational way for the thriving British brand to celebrate its 100th anniversary. As Salon Prive’s expert guests will immediately know, it pays homage to the MGC GTS Sebring which, back in 1968, secured the best-ever factory MG result at the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring. The highest-placed car, one of just six built, was nicknamed ‘Mable’ and driven by the legendary Paddy Hopkirk and Andrew Hedges. It would finish in a remarkable 10th place overall, and third in its category – beaten only by two exotic racing prototypes that were, unlike the MGC GTS Sebring, unrelated to any road-going sports cars. The MG Cyber GTS Concept celebrates this remarkable racer in style. Finished in gorgeous British Racing Green, the sleek coupe concept both captures the spirit of the MGC GTS Sebring, “whilst delivering a rear-wheel drive car utilising the MG of today’s advanced, high-performance EV powertrains”. Technical details have not yet been revealed, making it an even more alluring attraction to check out at Salon Privé. Tantalisingly, MG adds that “the Cyber GTS Concept explores the further potential for MG creating a new future for a GTS model in the EV era, and follows in the footsteps of the Cyberster which is the world’s first open-top EV two-seater to go into production”. The MG Cyberster roadster also on display at Salon Privé 2024 will help inform show-goers’ educated guesses about the gorgeous new MG Cyber GTS Concept. Offered in both single motor and dual motor guise, the Cyberster has a generous 77kWh battery that gives a range of up to 316 miles – and the sensational 503bhp of the dual motor Cyberster GT gives electrifying 0-62mph performance in just 3.2 seconds. Prices for the long-range MG Cyberster Trophy start from just £54,995, and even that thrilling high-performance GT is only £59,995. Salon Privé Director David Bagley said: “MG is a much-loved brand by so many Salon Privé enthusiasts, and I’m delighted we’re able to help continue its 100th anniversary celebrations in the regal grounds of Blenheim Palace. I’m eagerly looking forward to showcasing the fabulous new MG Cyber GTS Concept, one of the first times it will be shown in public since its world debut earlier this summer. It’s great to also showcase the MG Cyberster roadster, which is now arriving in showrooms after receiving rave reviews in the press. I’m certain our guests will enjoy helping continue MG’s 100th anniversary celebrations in style at Salon Privé 2024.” On Wednesday 28th to the Friday 30th there will be opportunity to test drive the Cyberster and the all-new HS, please ensure you ask a member of staff on the MG stand to book a test drive slot, slots are limited and not guaranteed.

CUPRA announces the new CUPRA Terramar ahead of its World Premiere at the 37ᵗʰ edition of the America’s Cup

Industry News

The new CUPRA Terramar is a sporty and electrified SUV that pays homage to Terramar circuit The CUPRA Terramar embraces the new CUPRA design language with a bold and confident look Today, the CUPRA Cube in Barcelona marks the beginning of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Barcelona and unveils the first details of the CUPRA Terramar ahead of its World Premiere Watch the livestream on September 3rd at 12:15pm CEST: https://youtube.com/live/044s9WOkMyM?feature=share Martorell, 23-08-2024 – The wait is almost over. The end of the countdown of the CUPRA Cube marks the beginning of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Barcelona and today CUPRA announces the CUPRA Terramar, the official car of the competition, ahead of its World Premiere on September 3rd. During the following days, the timer installed on Barcelona’s beach will show some details of the brand’s new model. The CUPRA Cube will also display information about the different races as well as the results and standings, to make sure that the fans of the competition are always up to date. The new CUPRA Terramar arrives to elevate CUPRA to the hotspot of the fastest growing segment in Europe. Paying homage to the Terramar circuit in Sitges, where CUPRA was first presented to the world, this electrified SUV is the new hero of a new era, created following the new CUPRA design language, perfectly blending emotion and performance. Featuring the unique CUPRA DNA with a bold and confident look, it integrates the next generation of eHybrid technology, greater digitalisation, and sustainability features, while enhancing driving performance. The World Premiere of the CUPRA Terramar will be an unforgettable event that will bring together the CUPRA Tribe to experience a new era for the brand in the context of a competition where there is no second place. The event will be live streamed on September 3rd at 12:15PM CEST on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/044s9WOkMyM?feature=share

New Forest National Park & BMW UK partner to better connect young people and EV drivers to nature

Industry News

In Jubilee Field Car Park, Sway, New Forest National Park, a new twin electric vehicle (EV) charging point will help locals and tourists make zero emission journeys BMW UK is also funding the appointment of two apprentice rangers and supporting around 80 young people to connect with nature and feel inspired to help protect it through its Youth Action Programme BMW UK’s work with New Forest National Park is part of its Recharge in Nature partnership with the UK National Parks The New Forest National Park Authority and BMW UK celebrate a milestone in its partnership today, as a new twin electric vehicle (EV) charging point officially goes live in the National Park. As well as enhancing the EV charging network, the pair’s collaboration will also see BMW fund the appointment of two apprentice rangers and support around 80 young people to better connect with nature and feel inspired to protect it. To increase the availability of public EV charging options for both local people and visitors, the new twin charging point has been installed in the Jubilee Field Car Park in Sway, one of the New Forest’s most central locations. It means that more EV drivers can enjoy the unique beauty of the National Park’s ancient woodlands, wild heathlands and beautiful coastlines. The installation is the latest win for the Recharge in Nature Project, which will see EV charge points installed across all 15 UK National Parks – from the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands down to Dartmoor in England’s South-West. By the end of the three-year partnership in 2025, there will be a total of 135 charge points thanks to the partnership. Currently, the UK’s National Parks are visited over 100 million times each year[1] – with 93% of these visits made by car[2]. Enhancing the National Parks’ EV recharging network is consequently vital to enabling better access to the UK’s most precious wild landscapes for the lowest emitting and quietest drives. BMW UK Corporate Communications Director, Graham Biggs, says:“We are proud to be leading the charge towards more sustainable tourism in the New Forest, one of the UK’s most beloved landscapes and home to the famous free-roaming ponies. With EVs now accounting for over 18 per cent[3] of the UK’s new car sales and demand for them growing strongly, a fully-fledged EV charging infrastructure is essential to helping to decarbonise travel and tourism in and around the nation’s celebrated beauty spots. Our Recharge in Nature partnership with the UK National Parks is about adding to the spread of rural EV chargers to reduce driving emissions – as well as noise and air pollution.” As well as helping enhance the rural charging network, BMW UK’s support of Recharge in Nature is funding nature and community impact projects in every National Park. In the New Forest, this includes the funding of two apprentice rangers, who will gain practical experience and develop skills in environmental conservation. The two rangers spent their first six weeks training in first aid and the operation of chainsaws, brush cutters and strimmers. Currently, they are spending time with each of the different local ranger teams to learn about their essential work – with the chance to join the New Forest’s Early Green Careers Network for additional mentoring. BMW UK is also supporting the New Forest National Park’s Youth Action Programme by funding three-month nature conservation projects for up to 10 young people at a time aged between 11 and 30 years. The aim of the programme is to connect these local young people more deeply with nature and inspire them to help protect it. The programme will feature a mix of nature protection volunteering, walks, educational talks, cycling, mindfulness exercises, training in bushcraft skills and discussions about supporting nature and combating the climate crisis in daily life. Chair of the New Forest National Park Authority, David Bence, says:“We’re really excited about our new EV twin charge point. The New Forest is a world capital for wildlife with many rare habitats and species and we’re already seeing the impacts of climate change. We must do everything we can to protect the New Forest for future generations – and that includes encouraging the people who call our wonderful National Park home and the millions of visitors each year, to embrace lower emission journey options. “We’re also thrilled that this partnership with BMW UK means investment in the local community through two new ranger apprentices and a programme to connect young people more deeply with the New Forest’s ancient landscapes. After all, young people are the future of conservation, but they won’t protect what they don’t know and love.” The BMW Group has set clear CO2 reduction targets across the lifecycle of every vehicle and is constantly seeking new ways to cut emissions. By 2030, the CO2 emissions per vehicle will be at least halved from 2019 levels. BMW Group was one of the first automotive brands to join the Business Ambition for 1.5°C as part of the Paris Climate Agreement – the most robust commitment to the goal of full climate neutrality, over the entire value chain, by 2050 at the latest. By doing so, the company is also part of the Race to Zero. For more information about BMW Group UK and the Recharge in Nature partnership, please visit bmw.co.uk/nationalparks

CUPRA Tavascan to open for order in the UK, as brand continues to expand electric offering

Industry News

CUPRA Tavascan will become available to order in the UK from 11th September Drivers can reserve today to become one of the first Tavascan drivers on the road Retail customers will be able to purchase a Tavascan on a 1% APR with £3,000 deposit contribution 48 months campaign plus either a complimentary Ohme charger or £700 charging voucher The CUPRA Tavascan perfectly matches electrification and performance; the most powerful version delivers 250kW (340PS), with dual-motor all-wheel drive system New striking design language, delivering sporty proportions and the signature CUPRA aesthetic Pricing starts from £47,340 For more information, visit: https://www.cupraofficial.co.uk/new-cars/new-car-stock-locator?t_model=EXAE Milton Keynes, 22-08-2024 – CUPRA’s first all-electric SUV coupe, Tavascan, will be open for order to UK customers from 11th September. To celebrate the launch and the next step in CUPRA’s electrification journey, customers can reserve a new Tavascan ahead of open for order and be prioritised to own one of the first 50 cars on the road in the UK. To place a reservation customers will need to pay £99 however this is automatically refunded within 7 days regardless of whether they go onto place an order. Reservations are still valid after the £99 is refunded*. The new CUPRA Tavascan will launch with a retail campaign – available from 11th September 2024. Offering customers £3,000 deposit contribution and 1% APR (up to 48 months), plus either a complimentary Ohme charger or £700 charging voucher. Customers would also be able to purchase our eCare2 service plan for only £49. The brand’s second fully electric model is available in V1, V2, VZ1 and VZ2 trims*, and boasts an advanced all-electric system. The Tavascan is offered in two power outputs: 286PS and 340PS, with the 286PS providing enough capacity for a range of up to 352 miles thanks to the 77kWh net capacity battery pack. Tavascan’s powertrain, coupled with its DCC Sport Dynamic Chassis*, allows the SUV Coupe to reach 62mph in 6.8 seconds (5.5 seconds for VZ trims) from a standing start, reaching a top speed of 112 mph. The battery pack offers 77kWh across all variants, and has a range of up to 352 miles, with the ability to be charged with either an AC charging system (up to 11kw) or a DC (up to 135kw) fast-charging network. Alongside power, the Tavascan also showcases a new striking design. A mysterious and intimidating front packed with rich details, complimented with its three-triangle eye signature headlamp and “shark nose” features, gives the Tavascan an athletic and sporty aesthetic. Marcus Gossen, Director of SEAT and CUPRA UK, said: “We’re really excited about the Tavascan opening for order in the UK. This is a culmination of years of hard work, innovation, and design coming together to create the future of CUPRA. We’re equally thrilled to be able to offer customers the chance to reserve the first 50 Tavascan’s early, prioritising their order and making them one of the first on the road in the UK. The Tavascan marks the next step in the CUPRA electrification journey, and we’re delighted to be able to bring that to life on the UK roads from 11th September this year.” Reserve your Tavascan here, and become one of the first UK Tavascan owners. *terms and conditions apply Model Power Torque 0-62mph (100km/h) Price (OTR RRP) Tavascan V1 77kWh 286PS 286PS 545Nm 6.8 seconds £47,340 Tavascan V2 77kWh 286PS 286PS 545Nm 6.8 seconds £53,835 Tavascan VZ1 77kWh 340PS 340PS 545Nm 5.5 seconds £55,935 Tavascan VZ2 77kWh 340PS 340PS 545Nm 5.5 seconds £60,835

Revolution Race Cars Lands American Investment and Management to Expand Offering of Le Mans Style Prototype Race Cars to Competitors and Track Day Drivers Around the World

Industry News

Classic Car Club Management Team and Revolution Partner To Shape Revolution and The American Racing Topography (AUGUST 22, 2024: NEW YORK) Revolution Race Cars, the UK-based automotive manufacturer that brings the pinnacle of motorsport safety, technology and speed to the ever-broadening motorsport community, announced today that it has secured significant new funding and presence in America from two longtime Revolution customers and the team that founded and operates Classic Car Club International, the famed private members motoring club in Manhattan, New York. A new American company, Cabotage Corporation, an investment vehicle formed by Classic Car Club Inc. Directors Zac Moseley, Revolution Race Cars leadership Phil Abbott and Nigel Redwood, together with longtime Revolution customers Marc Russell and Channel Islands based entrepreneur Terry Thompson, has acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Abbott Automotive Limited, trading as Revolution Race Cars. This new phase of Revolution’s development will fast track the development of exciting new models to the Revolution line up of consumer-focused prototype race cars engineered to accommodate new racers and world champions alike, as well as provide country club motorsport circuits and racing schools with the most competitive and durable package available. Revolution Race Cars remain committed to making Le Mans Prototype technology and safety more accessible, offering affordable sports race cars equipped with carbon tubs and cutting-edge features to enthusiasts globally. With this new investment and leadership structure, Revolution Race Cars is poised for an exhilarating phase of international growth and innovation, continuing to redefine the motorsport landscape. Zac Moseley will assume the role of Chairman with Nigel Redwood joining Revolution full-time as Managing Director, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous roles as MD and CEO of various international businesses. James Abbott will continue as Head of Product Development, working alongside his father, Phil Abbott, who will serve as Operations Director. This restructuring enables the Abbott family to focus entirely on designing and developing top-tier prototype race cars, while Nigel Redwood takes charge of the commercial side of the business. Additionally, Zac Moseley, Jessica Moseley, and Marc Russell will join the Revolution board as Directors of Abbott Automotive Ltd., bringing valuable experience to the team. Zac Moseley and Marc Russell both have strong ties with the Revolution factory. Zac heads Classic Car Club Racing, the East Coast dealer based in New York, while serial entrepreneur Marc was one of the first Revolution owners in the USA. This move transfers Classic Car Club’s racing dealership to Abbott Automotive Ltd., expanding the factory’s U.S. reach and deepening its partnership with Classic Car Club Inc. Marc Russell’s expertise in selling top of the range cars will further bolster Revolution’s presence in the U.S. This strategic move ensures that the Abbott family, renowned for their multi-generational expertise in race car construction, maintains its platform for innovation. Revolution’s mission has always been to democratize cutting-edge technology and uphold the highest safety standards in motorsport, making innovation accessible to a broader audience. Nigel Redwood brings over 25 years of commercial expertise and a deep motorsport background as a seasoned driver and team manager. His involvement with Revolution stems from a longstanding relationship with Phil Abbott, dating back to 2006 when he won the Radical Enduro Championship. Nigel joined Revolution Race Cars as a consultant in 2023, developing the sales and marketing strategy and securing investment to support the incumbent team. His decision to join full-time as Managing Director underscores his belief in Revolution’s vision. Phil Abbott, a distinguished BRDC Member and motorsport icon, has a storied career. With an engineering background from Rolls Royce and Jaguar, Phil’s journey into race car manufacturing began at Spyder Engineering, a specialist in replacement Lotus chassis and suspension. Co-founding Radical, he identified a gap for high-quality national-level race cars and achieved international success. In 2017, he co-founded Revolution with his son James to push the boundaries further with full carbon fibre safety cell race cars. James Abbott, co-founder of Revolution and a British Formula Ford and F3 race winner, brings extensive expertise in race car development and engineering. His experience with Radical, Ligier, and special projects with Aston Martin and Imperial College London give him a unique perspective into every element of a race car. The ethos of “built by racers for racers” runs throughout the entire team. Revolution Race Cars would also like to thank current Directors and investors Marcel Aebi, Michel Frey, Jean Gandar, and Romain Rousseaux, who are exiting the business at this point. Their support during the first chapter of Revolution’s journey laid the foundation for the exciting future ahead. With this new investment and leadership structure, Revolution Race Cars is poised for an exhilarating phase of growth and innovation, continuing to redefine the motorsport landscape. Phil Abbott Co-founder of Revolution Race Cars, commented “Today, James and I as co-founders of Revolution Race Cars, are thrilled to witness the evolution of our next phase. With this new investment and leadership, we’re poised to introduce exciting new models and push the boundaries of performance. Our passion for innovation drives us forward, and we’re excited to continue delivering cutting-edge technology and safety to enthusiasts worldwide.” Nigel Redwood Managing Director, added “With Revolution Race Cars, I see a unique opportunity to merge my decades of commercial expertise with a lifelong passion for motorsport. Joining full-time as Managing Director is not just a professional decision; it’s a testament to my belief in the Abbott family’s ability to deliver exceptional race cars. I’m honoured to be part of this journey, excited by the deepening partnership with Classic Car Club Inc and I’m eager to lead our team toward even greater success. As an ex-race driver myself, I continue the theme of ‘built by racers for racers.” Zac Moseley Chairman, “The motorsport industry has experienced colossal growth in the US market over the past ten years. More than a dozen new racing circuits are currently under construction across America, access to motorsport academies is at an all-time high and the explosion of interest in Formula…

Hyundai Motor and Kia showcase innovative temperature control technologies to enhance comfort and efficiency

Industry News

Hyundai Motor and Kia unveil three new temperature control technologies designed to enhance passenger comfort and energy efficiency in vehicles Nano Cooling Film lowers interior temperature by over 12°C to significantly improve in-vehicle conditions and reduce cabin cooling requirements Radiant Heating System provides quick, energy-efficient warmth to passengers, enhancing comfort during cold weather while extending vehicle driving range Metal-Coated Heated Glass uses world-first 48V tech for fast and energy-efficient window defrosting to improve visibility and therefore safety SEOUL, August 23, 2024 – Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation unveiled three technologies designed to closely regulate vehicle interior temperature to deliver enhanced passenger comfort and energy efficiency at ‘Heat Tech Day’ in Seoul, South Korea. The event showcased Hyundai Motor and Kia’s research and development achievements in temperature control, a crucial aspect of passenger comfort. As vehicles evolve beyond simple transportation and become living spaces, the companies are developing various temperature control technologies to meet the evolving needs for comfort in mobility. These technologies not only improve comfort but also save energy, allowing efficient management of vehicle energy in the era of electrification. The three technologies unveiled were: Nano Cooling Film – this material significantly lowers interior temperature in hot weather when applied to vehicle glass. Radiant Heating System – quickly and efficiently raises the perceived temperature around passengers in cold weather. Metal-Coated Heated Glass – a world-first 48V system quickly transmits heat from the electrically powered metal coating to the glass, removing frost and moisture. All three technologies are at the level of technological maturity suitable for mass production. “The three technologies unveiled today are closer to customers than any other technology,” said Young Ho Jung, Vice President and Head of Thermal Energy Total Development Group at Hyundai Motor Company. “We are developing technologies to provide the most pleasant environment, considering every moment that customers experience in mobility.” Nano Cooling Film: reduces temperature by up to 12°CIn July 2023, Hyundai Motor and Kia showcased various advanced nano-material technologies – particularly Nano Cooling Film, which can significantly lower a vehicle’s interior temperature. During testing, Hyundai Motor and Kia each prepared multiple vehicles, applying Nano Cooling Film to one and leaving the other in its original state. Vehicles with regular glass and not equipped with Nano Cooling Film recorded an interior temperature of 48.5°C, compared with 36.0°C for the vehicles fitted with Nano Cooling Film, demonstrating a maximum temperature reduction of 12.5°C with the advanced technology applied. Nano Cooling Film not only blocks infra-red radiation from outside the vehicle, like traditional tinting films, but also allows heat to escape from inside the vehicle. It comprises three layers, including two that reflect solar energy and one that emits mid-infrared wavelength. It can lower interior temperatures by more than 12°C and can be used with existing tinting films without further impacting light transmission. Last April, Hyundai Motor also conducted a campaign called ‘Made Cooler by Hyundai’, in which it installed transparent Nano Cooling Film for free on around 70 vehicles in Pakistan, where tinting is legally prohibited. This led to a positive response from residents1. In June, Hyundai Motor and Kia appeared at Cannes Lions 2024, the world’s largest advertising festival. They were invited as official seminar speakers to introduce their Nano Cooling Film technology and discuss the campaign launched in Pakistan. This marked the first time Hyundai Motor, among car manufacturers, hosted an official technology seminar at the Cannes Lions. Underfloor Radiant Heating System warms passengers within minutes Hyundai Motor and Kia also showcased the Radiant Heating System, a technology designed to quickly warm passengers during winter. The Radiant Heating System uses a heating element that emits radiant heat towards passengers’ legs, quickly warming them during cold weather. Alongside the vehicle’s existing heating system, the Radiant Heating System could conserve up to 17 percent more energy to reach a desired temperature, also saving time to reach this condition; the system delivers warmth to the lower body within three minutes, greatly enhancing passenger comfort. Combined, the Radiant Heating System is expected to significantly extend the driving range of electric vehicles in winter by reducing energy used for climate control. The system comprises a high-temperature film-type heating element and a burn prevention system. The heating element, which can reach 110°C, is wrapped in a fabric material that emits infra-red rays and adjusts the heat to a comfortable level. A burn prevention system detects body contact and immediately lowers the temperature, improving safety by eliminating burn risks. On Kia’s Radiant Heating System-equipped EV9, nine heating panels are installed, including on the steering column base, driver’s door and center console, as well as the passenger door and glove box base. Hyundai Motor and Kia plan to incorporate the Radiant Heating System in future models. Metal-Coated Heated Glass: removes frost and moisture to improve visibility The pioneering Metal-Coated Heated Glass system quickly removes frost or moisture from a vehicle windshield during winter, offering improved visibility and increased safety compared with regular tungsten wire heating elements. Metal-Coated Heated Glass is invisible, providing a clear, undistorted view for occupants. The 48V system can completely defrost the glass surface within five minutes at -18°C, up to four times faster and consuming around 10 percent less energy compared with conventional air-conditioning systems. Additionally, on hot days, the metal coating can passively block at least 60 percent of solar energy, reducing cabin cooling requirement to significantly improve energy efficiency. Hyundai Motor and Kia have applied for patents for Metal-Coated Heated Glass in major domestic and foreign markets, with plans to implement the technology in future vehicles. 1 See related video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9zXGsPBOlg&t=13s

Shortlist announced for International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2025

Industry News

In advance of the election of International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2025, the shortlist has been announced. From the five finalists, there is a double representation from one brand, a multi-marque model line-up from a global group plus two other main players in the sector, as explained by Jarlath Sweeney, Jury Chairman: “This year, there were 9 nominations, representing 15 light commercial vehicle brands, all in contention for the main prize. Ford has two finalists with the Ford Transit Courier and Ford E-Transit Custom, while the Stellantis Group has a multi-model representation through its ProOne Large Van range (Fiat Ducato, Opel/Vauxhall Movano, Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Jumper/Relay), while latest Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and all-new Renault Master completes the shortlist. Once again, as per last year, there was a mix of diesel, battery electric and hydrogen powered vehicles on the long list. Presently, the jury is entering the final election process, to vote the overall winner of the most prestigious and longest established award in the light commercial industry. All members of the International Van of the Year jury are looking forward to the announcement and presentation of the IVOTY 2025 trophy during the IAA Transportation ’Night of the Stars’ event at Messe Hannover. Roll on IAA Transportation 2024!” International Van of the Year (IVOTY) 2025 Shortlist Ford Transit Courier Ford E-Transit Custom Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Renault Master Stellantis ProOne Large Van range (Fiat Ducato, Opel/Vauxhall Movano, Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Jumper/Relay) Jarlath Sweeney,Chairman, International Van of the Year (IVOTY) & International Pick-up Award Juries (IPUA).D’Alton Street, Claremorris, County Mayo. Ireland.Eircode: F12 E7P2 Loc8Code: LRZ-26-RS9 Tel: +353 94 9372819Mobile: +353 87 2439239Web: www.van-of-the-year.com twitter.com/ivotyjury

Bentley first car manufacturer to join global body for responsibly-sourced leather

Industry News

Leather Naturally welcomes luxury British marque as first automotive member International NGO encourages use of certified, responsibly-sourced leather Global body promotes leather as natural by-product that supports responsible circular economy Bentley was first car-maker to introduce a fully organic leather option and join the Leather Working Group in 2021 Company’s sustainable leather policy a part of its Beyond100 strategy (Crewe, 22 August 2024) Bentley Motors has become the first automotive member of Leather Naturally, the global voice of the sustainable leather industry. The international, Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) is dedicated to promoting the use of certified, properly-sourced leather as a natural by-product of a responsible circular economy. The new partnership with Leather Naturally is just the latest environmental initiative by Bentley, underscoring the brand’s ongoing commitment to its Beyond100 strategy to become the global leader in sustainable luxury mobility. In 2021, Bentley was the first automotive member of the Leather Working Group, promoting responsible business practices and environmental compliance within the leather industry. As a next step, the luxury British marque introduced the first, sustainable leather option for customers, utilising a sustainable leather tanning process that uses an organic by-product of the olive oil industry. Olive Mill Waste Water tanned Leather is produced with tanning agents free of harmful heavy metals, minerals and aldehydes. Marc Stang, Technical Expert, Leather and Colour Development at Bentley Motors, said:“Leather is a timeless, luxury material that has always epitomised the elegance, durability and quality of a hand-crafted Bentley interior. It has a rich history that dates back decades in our cars and has always stood the test of time. The application of the latest sustainable leathers allows an even wider variety of choice for our customers and further supports our industry-leading Beyond100 strategy.” Debbie Burton, Chair of Leather Naturally, added:“Leather Naturally is delighted to welcome Bentley as a member. As a brand synonymous with both luxury and leather, this partnership underlines its commitment to furthering sustainability and ongoing improvement through its Beyond 100 vision.” Leather Naturally has a global membership from a wide range of industries. The NGO uses educational and promotional activities which focus on leathers made from hides that are a by-product of the food industry, therefore supporting a responsible, circular economy. Such materials would otherwise be turned into waste.

Modern Maserati masterpieces to star at Salon Privé 2024

Industry News

Maserati will again be out in force at this month’s Salon Privé 2024 at Blenheim Palace with a spectacular array of new cars. Its highlight being the UK debut of the brand-new Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo, from 28-31 August 2024. Maserati returns to Salon Privé 2024 with an ultra-desirable array of cars New Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo to be showcased for the first time in the UK Flagship Maserati MC20 Cielo will also be displayed on the Italian brand’s stand Salon Privé 2024 at Blenheim Palace to be held on 28-31 August 19th year of Salon Privé in 2024: ‘The UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party’ Salon Privé tickets available at https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/ The Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo will be exhibited both on the House of Trident’s stand and in the Salon Privé Parade—in action for the very first time in the UK. The all-new model is powered by a three-litre V6 Nettuno twin-turbo engine with 550HP. Using patented pre-chamber combustion technology derived from Formula One, it combines scintillating performance with a thrilling soundtrack, that Salon Privé guests are certain to enjoy. On the Maserati Salon Privé stand itself, guests will be able to admire the all-new Maserati GranTurismo Trofeo, as well as the brand’s flagship model, the MC20 Cielo. This dramatic spyder supercar, 100% made in Italy, is often heralded as one of the prettiest supercars out there and brings added drama when the doors are opened as they hinge upwards towards the sky. Its one-of-a-kind glass folding roof is also set to impress at Salon Privé. Maserati has a long tradition of creating iconic and beautiful GT cars, many of which will also be showcased at Salon Privé; the Blenheim Palace show will allow enthusiasts to see the latest in the line. Salon Privé Director David Bagley said: “Maserati is a great brand with a wonderful heritage, and it’s always a pleasure to see this Italian icon out in force at Salon Privé. This year, I am thrilled we are giving the UK premiere to the new Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo, a stunning open-top example of Maserati’s exciting driver-focused grand tourer. I am certain it will prove popular with our many guests.” With Maserati out in full force on the south Lawn from the 28th to 31st, on Supercar Saturday, the 31st, where the car club trophy sponsored by Lockton will be presented, the Maserati Owners Club will make history by displaying on the North Lawn 60 years of heritage of all of the different generations of the iconic Maserati Quattroporte, including the Quattroporte II, one of 13 QPIIs made and one of only three still running. This is an event not to be missed.