Maserati named Official Cars Supplier for GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. The House of the Trident to provide Safety Car and Leading Car in 2025 Track-inspired GT2 Stradale chosen as Safety Car, MC20 to fulfil Leading Car duties First engagement comes this weekend when season launches at Circuit Paul Ricard Modena, 11 April 2025 – Maserati will provide the official Safety Car and Leading Car throughout the 2025 GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS season thanks to a new agreement between the Italian manufacturer and SRO Motorsports Group. The essential role of Safety Car will be fulfilled by the Maserati GT2 Stradale, the road-going version of the brand’s successful GT2 race car. Deriving significant power from a V6 Nettuno engine, the GT2 Stradale achieves 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 324 km/h. Finished in a sleek Nero Pastello colour scheme, the Maserati GT2 Stradale will provide safety in style when it joins GT World Challenge Europe this season. It will be complemented by the Maserati MC20, which has been chosen as the Leading Car for 2025. Featuring an eight-speed dual clutch transmission and clean, innovative aerodynamics, it will carry an eye-catching Bianco Pastello colour scheme. The new agreement forges even closer ties between Maserati and SRO Motorsports Group. The manufacturer is already synonymous with excellence thanks to competition cars such as the Maserati MC12, which enjoyed remarkable success throughout the GT1 era. More recently, the Maserati GT2 returned the brand to the international sportscar arena by taking on the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli, instantly establishing a winning reputation. The 2025 GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS season launches this weekend (12/13 April) at Circuit Paul Ricard, which stages a six-hour Endurance Cup race from 18:00 CEST on Saturday. In addition to its role as Safety Car and Leading Car provider, Maserati will also be on-track as part of the GT2 Europe field with entries in both the Pro-Am and Am classes. Maria Conti, Head of Maserati Corse: “We’re roaring into our first role as official Safety Car and Leading Car throughout the 2025 season of the GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS. From the road to the track and back again: this is our story. Going from GT2 racing to its road version was a natural step, to embody our brand’s performance, now returning to the grid not only to compete, but also in this essential role. We look forward to a successful partnership with SRO and are very proud to provide them with a car that can stand out for its cutting-edge technologies, significant performance and unique driving style. That has always been our goal in the world of racing: to revive Maserati’s passion and competitive DNA on the track”. Stéphane Ratel, SRO Motorsports Group founder & CEO: “I am proud to present Maserati as the new Safety Car and Leading Car supplier for GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS. This agreement adds a new dimension to what has been a long association between SRO and Maserati. The name is synonymous with engineering excellence, from the legendary MC12 through to the current GT2 model that will compete this weekend, so I am certain the GT2 Stradale will fulfil its new role perfectly. I look forward to a successful partnership”. Maserati S.p.A.Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally.Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. The full-electric range also currently includes the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first 100% electric SUV, and the GranCabrio Folgore. Finally, the House of the Trident’s latest addition is the Maserati GT2 Stradale, the road-legal version of the GT2 that took Maserati back to the track in closed-wheel championships. The heart of the new super sports car is the V6 Nettuno engine, reaching 640 hp (471 kW) in the latter configuration. The GT2 Stradale is therefore the most powerful road-going Maserati with an internal combustion engine. The mission at Maserati is to write the future of mobility in the luxury segment, focusing on its customers’ requests. The Brand, in line with the Stellantis “Dare Forward 2030” strategic plan, is now taking Italian luxury all over the world. For further information:MASERATIRoberta Marchetti – Maserati Corse Communications Manager – roberta.marchetti@maserati.com

Synergy Car Leasing tops BYD-sponsored Broker News Awards 2025

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. 11 April 2025 – For the second successive year, Synergy Car Leasing is the Broker of the Year Award winner at the BYD-sponsored Broker News Awards 2025 held at London’s Orrery restaurant. The Awards, which celebrate brilliance in the industry, also announced a host of other winners last week (3 April) that are pioneering, innovating and driving success in the leasing broker sector. The judges believed Harrogate-based Synergy Car Leasing ‘has all the bases covered – best in sales, best in customer service and nurtures new talent brilliantly’ was a deserved winner. With 10 categories, including the newly introduced Best Salary Sacrifice Broker Award, other winners were: Best Appointed Representative – Leasing Route t/a Jurni Leasing (Stafford) Best Small Broker (up to 1,000 units per year) – Greenfleets (Tring) Best Mid-Size Broker (1,001-5,000 units per year) – Synergy Car Leasing (Harrogate) Best Volume Broker (5,001+ units per year) – Nationwide Vehicle Contracts (Manchester) Best Customer Service Broker – Synergy Car Leasing (Harrogate) Best Commercial Vehicle Broker – Vanaways (Bristol) Best Salary Sacrifice Broker – loveelectric (Edinburgh) Best SME Fleet Broker – Fleet Alliance (Glasgow) Best Innovation in Broking – The Electric Car Scheme (Hayes) Further award category winners were: Rising Star of the Year – Ellie Tucker, Synergy Car Leasing Funder of the Year – Novuna Vehicle Solutions Broker Supplier of the Year – vGroup International Woman in Broking – Donna Kelly, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts Editor’s award – Rod Lloyd, Chair of BVLRA Leasing Broker committee Headline sponsor, BYD, presented the winning ‘Broker of the Year Award 2025’ to Synergy Car Leasing. Claudio de Freitas, Contract Hire & Leasing Manager at BYD said: “This is the first time an OEM has been involved in these Awards, but we recognise the broker channel as an important element of our growth as a company, so we were honoured to be able to have been a part of this process, recognise the key players in the industry, and celebrate their achievements.” Will Voisey, Managing Director at Synergy Car Leasing, added: “We are delighted to have won Broker of the Year for the second year running! Judges recognised the huge effort we have made consistently over the years to provide the best-in-class services to our customers as well as to nurture new talent within our organisation. We continue to grow, but the team remains very close, and we ensure we continue to work together as a team to achieve our common goal.” Ralph Morton, Editor at Broker News concluded: “The Awards perform a vital role in celebrating excellence and highlighting the best in this thriving and dynamic community. Brokers are focusing on innovation, digital advancement, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, and that’s combining to build a strong broker sector. “My thanks to the independent board of judges, Senior Judge Steve Cocks of Lex Autolease, Chair of the judging panel Paul Parkinson, and of course, to our main partner BYD and our other partners in the event, without whose support the Broker News Awards would not be possible.” For more on the awards, visit: https://brokernews.co.uk/broker-news-awards-2025-synergy-car-leasing-named-broker-of-the-year-plus-all-the-2025-award-winners/ Notes to EditorsBroker News is the leading B2B publication for the leasing broker sector, which is responsible for 380,000 vehicles per annum. BVRLA-approved leasing brokers provide personal contract hire, business contract hire, salary sacrifice and fleet management services to consumers and businesses, underwritten by the UK’s leading banks and funders. These are the third Broker News Awards designed to recognise excellence in the leasing broker industry and open to all BVRLA-accredited leasing brokers. Contact ralph.morton@brokernews.co.uk for further information. Photographs show:Will Voisey (left), Managing Director of Synergy Car Leasing, accepts the Broker News Broker of the Year Award 2025 from Headline Partner Claudio de Freitas of BYD flanked by Synergy Sales Account Manager Ellie Tucker, who was also named Rising Star of the Year. Toby Poston (left), the CEO of the British Vehicle and Leasing Association, accepts the Editor’s Award from Broker News Editor Ralph Morton on behalf of Rod Lloyd, Chair of the BVRLA Leasing Broker Committee, for his work on behalf of the sector following the Court of Appeal judgement on finance brokers and commission disclosure. Photographer credit: Alastair Hilton

World first: McMurtry Spéirling hypercar drives upside down from stationary

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. In stunning world first, McMurtry Spéirling becomes the first car to drive upside down Records tumble as Spéirling claims Top Gear Test Track outright record, to add to Goodwood Festival of Speed and Laguna Seca Hillclimb records Customer deliveries of all-electric hypercar scheduled for 2026; 100 to be made Proprietary Downforce-on-DemandTM fan system enabled upside-down driving Special edition livery used as tribute to McMurtry’s first ever fan car from 2021 Watch the video here In a stunning world first, McMurtry Automotive has driven its record-breaking Spéirling hyper track car upside down. Thomas Yates, Co-founder & Managing Director of McMurtry Automotive used the British hypercar’s proprietary fan system which produces Downforce-on-DemandTM, to ‘suck’ the hypercar to the ‘floor’ of a specially-built rotating rig. The technology demonstration took place at McMurtry’s headquarters in Gloucestershire, England and was attended by employees and independent adjudicators. This monumental feat is yet another record-breaking outing for the Spéirling. Today, it was also announced that the same vehicle has also smashed the Top Gear Test Track record by 3.1 seconds. The previous record holder was a V10 Renault R24 Formula 1 racecar from 2004. It also holds the Goodwood Festival of Speed Hillclimb outright record and the Laguna Seca Corkskrew Hillclimb record. The McMurtry Spéirling is a British-built, single-seat, electric hypercar that operates in a league of its own. It was envisioned by one of Britain’s most successful businessmen, the billionaire and prolific inventor Sir David McMurtry, who passed away in December. McMurtry Automotive continues his legacy with a small, agile team of talented and creative engineers. Thomas Yates, Co-founder & Managing Director of McMurtry Automotive, commented: “That was just a fantastic day in the office! Strapping in and driving inverted was a completely surreal experience. The 2000kg of downforce that the fan system can generate is truly astonishing to experience and it’s great to show the reason why our Spéirling continues to take records around the world.” “This demonstration was an exciting proof of concept using a small purpose-built rig, but is perhaps just the beginning of what’s possible. With a longer inverted track or a suitable tunnel, we may be able to drive even further! Huge congratulations and thanks to the entire McMurtry Automotive team, especially the engineers involved in the car and fan system’s design, they are the heroes of today. ” How is it possible?It has long been discussed that high-performance race cars, such as those used in Formula 1, could theoretically be driven upside down. This is due to the amount of downforce that they generate at speed. However, it has never been attempted. Equipped with McMurtry’s patented Downforce-on-DemandTM system, the Spéirling can accelerate, brake, and turn with significantly more grip than other hypercars and racecars, especially at low speed. Importantly, this downforce is available at any speed, even at a standstill. Other hypercars and racecars can only produce downforce at high speeds using aerodynamic surfaces. During the record attempt, Thomas Yates drove the Spéirling up a ramp and onto a purpose-built platform. The floor of the platform then rotated, fully inverting the hypercar. The Downforce-on-DemandTM system created a sufficient vacuum underneath the hypercar’s floor to hold it upside down, exceeding the force of gravity. Once fully inverted, Thomas drove forward, entirely unsupported. This proprietary system also enables the battery-electric hypercar to accelerate to 60mph in just 1.5 seconds, complete a quarter mile in 8 seconds, and corner at more than 3g (three times the force of gravity). The car was presented with a gloss black falcon camouflage livery on a matt black base coat. This is a tribute to the original McMurtry fan car which was unveiled in 2021 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed where the public first asked “So can you drive it upside down?”. The falcons are modelled on the company logo, the peregrine falcon, the fastest creature on Earth. There are other graphics including under the rear wing, which are optimised for viewing when upside down. From prototype to productionThe specific car used to set this record is the McMurtry Spéirling PURE Validation Prototype 1 (VP1). It is an evolution of the hypercar that set the Goodwood record and is the next step towards a finalised production model, of which only 100 will be made. The first Spéirling PURE customer deliveries are set for 2026 and will feature a number of enhancements over this prototype, namely a higher 100kWh capacity battery back. This will allow for extended sessions in the Spéirling, providing 20 minutes of track time at ‘GT3 pace’ and ‘record-breaking’ pace for multiple hot laps. The lithium-ion battery cells that will be used are P50B Molicel 21700s delivering both exceptional power delivery and energy density. SafetyWhile the stunt may appear dangerous, the Spéirling is built to the rigorous motorsport safety standards of LMP1 cars – the fastest cars at the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours. In track and racing conditions, the downforce produced by the Spéirling also plays a vital safety role. As downforce levels are unrelated to speed or direction of travel, testing has demonstrated that if a driver enters a spin or other uncontrolled manoeuvre, the amount of grip and downforce available means that application of the brakes will often see them stop almost immediately, often while still on the tarmac. Ends Editors NotesThe full video of the event can be found here: https://youtu.be/g6LYcgaQ46c High resolution images can be found here: https://we.tl/t-lMpehW6wQJ Media contactsChristopher Foster,christopher@navigate.partners44 7525 471332 Naomi Panter, naomi@navigate.partners+44 7497 768253 About McMurtryMcMurtry is a UK-based electric hypercar manufacturer founded in 2016 by engineering pioneer Sir David McMurtry. Our vision is bold but simple: to build vehicles focused purely on driving exhilaration. Not just for professional racers, but for anyone passionate about pushing limits. The elite team created the record-breaking Spéirling — a revolutionary fan car delivering 3G cornering via 2000kg of confidence-inspiring downforce available from 0mph. It has shattered outright records at the Goodwood Festival of Speed Hillclimb and the Top Gear Test Track…

KGM Motors UK expands dealer network with addition of TW White & Sons

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. KGM Motors UK, formerly SsangYong, is pleased to announce the expansion of its dealer network with the addition of TW White & Sons Limited, located in Effingham. A family-run business with a rich history in the automotive sector, TW White & Sons have operations across six locations in Surrey, South London, and Kent, employing over 100 dedicated professionals. Established in 1964, TW White & Sons has built a strong reputation for delivering comprehensive automotive solutions, including new and used vehicle sales, servicing, parts, and repairs, with their longstanding commitment to customer care and community engagement cementing their position as a trusted name in the region. The dealership also actively supports local charities and organisations, reinforcing its ethos of giving back to the community. Jen Westwood, Head of Business at TW White & Sons, said: “We are delighted to join the KGM franchise and embark on this exciting new chapter for our dealership. Over the past six decades, we have cultivated strong relationships with our customers and established deep roots within our local community. We look forward to introducing the impressive KGM range to our loyal customers while welcoming new ones.” Situated on The Crossroads, Guildford Road, Effingham, KT24 5PE, TW White & Sons’ showroom showcases KGM’s award-winning lineup, including the all-new KGM Actyon, alongside the acclaimed Rexton, Musso, Korando, and Tivoli, as well as the Torres and all-electric Torres EVX. In addition to vehicle sales, the dealership offers a comprehensive range of aftersales services at their nearby Runmore Garage, just 600 metres away, providing servicing, MOTs, repairs, and genuine approved parts. KGM continues to enhance its presence in the UK market with an expanding portfolio of innovative vehicles. The recent launch of the KGM Actyon – a modern reinvention of the world’s first coupe-style SUV introduced in 2005 – demonstrates the brand’s commitment to blending style, practicality, and advanced technology. Available exclusively in the K50 trim level, the Actyon marks KGM’s first all-new SUV since its rebrand from SsangYong in January 2024, celebrating the company’s 70th anniversary and reinforcing its forward-thinking approach to automotive solutions. Kevin Griffin, Managing Director at KGM Motors UK, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome TW White & Sons to the KGM UK family. Their outstanding reputation for delivering exceptional sales and customer service, combined with their family-focused values, aligns with what we believe in as a brand. We look forward to a successful partnership that will benefit customers across the region.” The addition of TW White & Sons strengthens KGM Motors UK’s growing dealer network, ensuring that more customers have access to the brand’s innovative and award-winning range of vehicles. For more information or to book a test drive, visit http://www.kgm-motors.co.uk/. -ENDS- MADE IN KOREA KGM Global (formerly KGM Motor Company) is a Korean car manufacturer specialising in 4x4s, SUVs, MPVs and pick-up trucks. Initially established in 1954, the company produced trucks, busses, and special purpose vehicles for the export market, establishing the strong and reliable DNA of its products on the market today. The headquarters for KG Mobility is in the Gangnam district of Korea’s capital, Seoul, and its principal vehicle manufacturing plant is currently at Pyungtaek, which has the capacity and latest technology to produce 240,000 cars a year. The company has invested in a new factory, in the same area, which is has been developed specifically for to accommodate the production of pure-electric vehicles. KGM UK distribution rights were acquired by Bassadone Automotive Group in 2011. Operating as KGM UK Limited in the UK, as the official importer and distributor of KGM vehicles, parts, and accessories. KGM UK Limited has undergone dramatic transformation over recent years with the implementation of a new management team and a new growth strategy with a firm focus on the expansion of an evenly spread dealer network to 80-strong in 2024. Its proposition offers UK customers a full range of SUV’s and pick-ups with generous specifications, each with value for money prices. KGM Motors UK Limited Online press office visit: https://kgm-motors.media Vanessa Cox Director of Communications E: vanessa.cox@kgm-motors.co.uk T: 07535 875997 Toby Noakes Communications Executive E: toby.noakes@kgm-motors.co.uk T: 07932 602457 Aidan O’Neill Communications Executive E: aidan.oneill@kgm-motors.co.uk T: 07443 227636