GEM welcomes the prospect of changes to driver eyesight regulations

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Reform to the current regime is ‘long overdue’, says GEM It’s vital to reduce the number of people – of all ages – who drive with defective vision Any changes need to be communicated properly to road users Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist welcomes the prospect of changes to current UK driver eyesight regulations. GEM has long campaigned for reforms to these rules, and has described recent proposals for compulsory eyesight tests as ‘long overdue’. However, the road safety organisation believes all drivers should be tested, not just those aged 70 or over. GEM is also urging the government to implement an ambitious, first-rate communications strategy alongside any legislative change. GEM’s head of road safety James Luckhurst said: “Regular eyesight tests would help protect all road users by identifying visual impairments that could compromise safe driving. “For too long we have relied on self-reporting of eyesight problems, and we welcome the prospect of this welcome shift toward proactive safety enforcement. Too many people – and not just those aged 70 or over – are driving with defective eyesight that has deteriorated to a dangerous level. “To reduce this risk, we want all licence holders to undergo a professional eye examination every two years as a matter of individual responsibility and public safety. “We believe that reform to driver eyesight rules shows a commitment to making the roads safer for everyone and has nothing to do with unfairly targeting people because of their age, or seeking to restrict anyone’s freedom. Mandatory eye tests are essential for everyone’s safety. “Let’s also ensure that details of these updates reach road users who don’t currently see road safety as relevant to them and bring the public on board to help change minds and behaviours which ultimately save lives. We need to ensure the communication mistakes made at the introduction of the Highway Code ‘hierarchy of road users’ in 2022 are not repeated.” Ends Notes for editors GEM Motoring Assist provides two levels of recovery service; Recovery EXTRA and Recovery RECLAIM, to suit all needs and pockets. GEM provides a comprehensive and competitively priced Roadside Assistance and Vehicle Recovery Service. GEM is a Which? Recommended Provider for Breakdown Services 2024. GEM was Highly Commended in the Personal Finance Awards in 2022, 2023 and 2024. GEM’s breakdown cover has also been awarded a 5-star rating by Defaqto, meaning GEM provides one of the highest quality offerings in the market. GEM Motoring Assist was established in 1932, as an independent driver-based road safety association. GEM’s aim is to improve safety for all road users through the sponsorship and initiation of accident prevention measures throughout the UK and to provide motoring and safety information to its own members. Member benefits include a quarterly magazine, free literature and advice and discounts on insurance and other services. Press information: James Luckhurst is available for comment on 07770 608153 or editor@motoringassist.com Alternatively, you can email press@motoringassist.com for any further information.

Polo is crowned Best Car of the Half Century

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Major accolade for Volkswagen’s ever-popular supermini This year the Polo celebrates its 50th anniversary With 20 million sales over the course of six generations, the Polo is one of the world’s most successful small cars Milton Keynes – The Volkswagen Polo has been voted Best Car of the Half Century as part of the Best Cars of the Year – The New Car World Championships. The award was announced ahead of this year’s British Motor Show in recognition of the Polo’s 50th anniversary – echoing the same honour given to the Golf last year during its 50th birthday celebrations. The Polo is one of many cars taking centre stage at this year’s British Motor Show, which starts on Friday 15 August at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre. The judging panel for the award comprised independent world-renowned car designers, engineers, auto industry figureheads, motorsport personalities, journalists, broadcasters, media professionals, vehicle retailers, automotive consultants, motor club chiefs and motoring event organisers. Among them was automotive journalist Mike Rutherford, founder of the Best Cars of the Year – The New Car World Championships. “The 20 million motorists who have been buying Volkswagen Polos since 1975 cannot be wrong,” said Mike. “It’s the most consistently credible supermini of the past 50 years and has repeatedly hit the sweet spot in terms of understated design, overall dimensions, build quality, competitive retail pricing, efficiency and low standing and running costs. It’s super strong on overall affordability, durability and longevity. “And it’s fair to say that since the birth of the MK1 version in 1975, it has grown in size, stature, quality and market relevance. No longer is the Polo a basic supermini to be driven on tight, slow streets in busy towns and cities across the world. At more than four metres long in its current Mk6 guise, it’s more of a small, credible, borderline premium family hatchback. “No wonder it remained one of the top 20 best-selling cars in Europe last year.” With more than 20 million sales worldwide, the Polo is one of Volkswagen’s most successful cars to date, and it continues to stand for affordable mobility – a car for everyone. ‘Small but mighty’ is the perfect way to sum up the Polo, not just in terms of looks but also in its sporty credentials. In the World Rally Championship, the Polo R WRC has won an impressive four world titles. For everyday driving, the GT and G40 series have added excitement, while the GTI continues to deliver thrilling performance today. (ends) VW25039 TR/rp Press contactVolkswagen (UK) Press Team Mike Orford 07467 442062Grant McPherson 07774 684222Trevor Rickwood 07407 826649Nicki Divey 07802 248310 Volkswagen Press and PRVolkswagen (UK)Yeomans DriveBlakelandsMilton KeynesMK14 5AN www.vwpress.co.uk Twitter: @VWUKPress About the Volkswagen brand: A total of 166,304 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were registered in the UK in 2024, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). This equated to a market share of 8.52 per cent, matching the brand’s market share in 2023, and made Volkswagen the UK’s best-selling new-car brand for the fourth year running. The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand has a global presence, producing vehicles at 29 locations in 12 countries, and employs 170,000 people. In 2024, Volkswagen delivered around 4.80 million vehicles worldwide. These included bestsellers such as the Polo, T-Roc, T-Cross, Golf, Tiguan and Passat, as well as the successful all-electric ID. models. Volkswagen handed over about 383,000 all-electric vehicles to customers worldwide in 2024 and, with its ACCELERATE strategy, is consistently advancing its ambition to become the most desirable brand for sustainable mobility.

Broad Arrow presents stunning and un-raced Jaguar D-type at inaugural Zürich Auction

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. One of only 71 Jaguar D-Types produced Rare example that has never been used in competitive motorsport Matching engine and chassis numbers Meticulously cared for by current Swiss owner for past three decades Highly desirable Jaguar D-Type will be one of the highlights of Broad Arrow Zürich Auction in partnership with Auto Zürich on 1 November D-Type estimated to bring CHF 5’250’000 – 6’250’000 London, England (12 August 2025) – Broad Arrow Auctions, a Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY) company, is proud to offer one of the most pristine examples of the iconic Jaguar D-Type at its inaugural Zürich Auction this November. One of only 71 produced, Chassis XKD 551 is a rare short-nose version of the D-Type and one of the last to have been manufactured. Its desirability is undeniable and further enhanced by the fact that it has never been used in competition, which will undoubtedly generate intense interest among the international collector car community. The Jaguar D-Type will be a highlight of Broad Arrow’s Zürich Auction, which will be held in partnership with Auto Zürich at the world famous Dolder Grand hotel on Saturday 1 November 2025. “We are extremely honoured to have been granted the opportunity to offer this incredible Jaguar D-Type at our first Zürich Auction,” says Yves Boitel, Car Specialist, EMEA, at Broad Arrow Auctions. “The fact that this car has never been used competitively and has been meticulously cared for throughout its life, makes it one of the most exceptional D-Types in existence and one that will surely create great excitement among collectors.” Manufactured in 1956, chassis XKD 551 was sold to its first private owner in October 1957, who rather than heading to the nearest racetrack as many D-Types did, carefully converted it to semi-XKSS specification, removing the central bulkhead, adding a passenger door, and fitting a full-width windscreen. In 1963, ownership moved to Hon. James Dawnay, who famously owned and raced the Aston Martin DBR1/1. Motorsport provenance continued when it was sold to Australian Formula 1 driver Paul Hawkins. The 1970s saw another owner remove the XKSS-style modifications to return this highly collectible D-Type to its original configuration, and it eventually landed with its current Swiss owner in 1994. Prior to this, the original XK inline-six engine (no. E 2070-9) had been removed to ensure its preservation, with a correct specification engine fitted in its place. The new owner invested in a significant rebuild of the original engine, which continued to be preserved in storage for the next two decades. Recently, XKD 551 was reunited with its original engine, still fresh from its 2005 rebuild, and this incredible D-Type was treated to a service by the renowned Swiss specialists Graber Sportgarage in preparation for the sale. This extremely rare, un-raced example of the iconic Jaguar D-Type, complete with matching chassis and engine numbers, represents a remarkable opportunity for any discerning collector. It is also accompanied by previous FIA Historical Identity Form (1992), FIA Passport (2009) and FIVA Identity Card (2012), and is eligible for the world’s most celebrated historic racing events, including the Goodwood Revival, Silverstone Classic, Mille Miglia Storica, Le Mans Classic, Monaco Historic Grand Prix, and Spa Classic. “The excitement is building ahead of our inaugural Zürich Auction,” says Paul Gaucher, Head of Consignments for Switzerland at Broad Arrow Auctions. “The addition of this truly superb example of the iconic Jaguar D-Type will undoubtedly add to that excitement among international car collectors. There is plenty more to come and we can’t wait to share additional news on the highly desirable models that will be joining the catalogue soon.” Additional information on The Zürich Auction is available at broadarrowauctions.com. Collectors interested in consigning to or attending the auction are invited to speak with a Broad Arrow car specialist about this very special addition to the international collector car calendar. Ends. Editor’s Notes About Broad Arrow AuctionsBroad Arrow Auctions, a Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY) company, is a leading global collector car auction house. Founded in 2021 by highly experienced industry veterans, Broad Arrow offers exceptional quality cars to collectors and enthusiasts around the world. As the fastest growing auction house in its segment, Broad Arrow’s flagship annual events include The Monterey Jet Center Auction, in conjunction with Motorlux in California, The Amelia Auction, as the official auction of The Amelia (Concours d’Elegance) in Florida, and The Porsche Auction, in conjunction with Air | Water by Luftgekühlt in California. Broad Arrow expanded its global footprint in 2023, with renowned car specialists joining the team in the UK and Europe. Broad Arrow launched its first auction in Europe in May 2025 as the new official auction house of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in Italy in partnership with BMW AG. Broad Arrow now expands its global auction footprint with three new auctions in 2025 to be held during Zoute Grand Prix, Concours at Wynn Las Vegas, and Auto Zürich. Learn more at broadarrowauctions.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. About Hagerty, Inc. (NYSE: HGTY) Hagerty is an automotive enthusiast brand committed to saving driving and to fueling car culture for future generations. The company is a leading provider of specialty vehicle insurance, expert car valuation data and insights, live and digital car auction services, immersive events and automotive entertainment custom made for the 67 million Americans who self-describe as car enthusiasts. Hagerty also operates in Canada and the U.K. and is home to Hagerty Drivers Club, a community of over 875,000 who can’t get enough of cars. For more information, please visit www.hagerty.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statements – This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements provided, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including those regarding Hagerty’s future operating results and financial position, Hagerty’s business strategy and plans, products, services, and technology implementations, market conditions, growth and trends, expansion plans and opportunities, and Hagerty’s objectives for future operations. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “envision,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,”…

CUPRA named Official Automotive Partner of All Points East

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. CUPRA reunites with All Points East as Official Automotive Partner, reaffirming the brand’s passion for music All Points East is set to host well-known talent such as Chase and Status, Raye, Sammy Virgi, and The Maccabees Click here to find out more about All Points East Milton Keynes, 12-06-2024 – CUPRA has been confirmed as the Official Automotive Partner for All Points East 2025. In the third consecutive year of sponsorship, CUPRA and All Points East are celebrating the always-evolving spirit of music, with the event set to offer an experience to remember thanks to a star-studded line-up of artists who are shaping the future of music. For 2025, All Points East returns to Victoria Park on the weekends of 16 – 18 August and 23 – 25 August for its sixth edition and expects to pull in big crowds. The festival is set to host a wealth of talent, including Cleo Sol, Chase & Status, Raye, The Maccabees, and many more. Marcus Gossen, Director of SEAT and CUPRA UK, said: “As a brand that thrives on boldness and creativity, CUPRA is no stranger to shaking things up – and there’s no better place to do that than at one of London’s most forward-thinking festivals, All Points East. “Throughout this year, we’ve shown that music is embedded in the CUPRA DNA. Our strong connection with Primavera Sound is something we’ve celebrated for years, and we’re delighted to be able to do the same with All Points East, who represent the disruptive, modern, and dynamic music scene in London. It’s an alignment that is perfectly positioned with the CUPRA ethos and it is also now within our newly-opened Manchester City Garage – where we offer a creative space for growing UK talent to develop their skills and engage with an immersive programme of music. “We’re delighted to be partnered with this event and look forward to what promises to be a fantastic two weekends.” All Points East has become the essential London event since its inception eight years ago. The highly curated line-up of artists includes a range of musical talents from established names to those on the rise to stardom. Headliners for 2025 are Cleo Sol, Chase and Status, Barry Can’t Swim, Raye, The Maccabees, and Bombay Bicycle Club. For more information, download the official app or visit www.allpointseastfestival.com. ENDS Change needs drivers — and CUPRA believes real progress comes through radical disruption, by defying expectations and challenging conventions. Since its launch in 2018, the brand has transformed the automotive industry as an instigator of creativity and an agitator for change. In just seven years, CUPRA has launched seven models and sold over 800,000 vehicles globally. Every CUPRA model is restlessly expressive, design led, and performance driven. Its fully-fledged portfolio includes the CUPRA Ateca, the first car to ever feature the CUPRA badge; the CUPRA Leon, redesigned and enhanced as a standalone CUPRA model; the CUPRA Formentor, the first car to be developed exclusively by the brand and the company’s best-selling vehicle to date; the CUPRA Born, the brand’s first 100% electric vehicle; the CUPRA Tavascan, an all-electric SUV coupe; and the CUPRA Terramar, the brand’s sporty SUV. In 2026, the CUPRA Raval, the brand’s radical interpretation of the electric urban car, will join its lineup. CUPRA is more than a car. It’s a conviction. The CUPRA Tribe is made up of a team of ambassadors who push back against convention and past the boundaries that hold others back, with members including film director J.A. Bayona, German goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen, and two-time Ballon d’Or and Best FIFA Award-winning footballer Alexia Putellas. Obsessive about elevating emotion on and off the road, CUPRA is also FC Barcelona’s official automotive and mobility partner, the Premier Padel Tour’s premium sponsor and is also proud to participate in the Formula E racing competition with Kiro Race Co. www.cupraofficial.com For more information, please contact: Chris Mease, Head of PR and Communications07586 058302; chris.mease@seatcars.co.uk Kate Arding, PR Manager07500 689543; kate.arding@seatcars.co.uk Holly Williams, Events and Internal Communications Manager07738 897319; holly.williams@seatcars.co.uk Katie Duguid, Press Fleet Manager07983 537247; katie.duguid@seatcars.co.uk This news release and illustration are issued in accordance with Clause 1.2J of the British Codes of Advertising and Sales Promotion and therefore cannot be the subject of a transaction of any kind.

Creating the world’s most powerful production V12 – meet the team behind the Zenvo Automotive ‘Mjølner’ powertrain

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. ‘Mjølner’ is the most powerful production engine, while also being truly global Collaboration between Zenvo Automotive and MAHLE Powertrain combines the latest technologies with tried and tested best practice Latest episode in the behind-the-scenes docuseries following the journey to production of Aurora, and delivering this groundbreaking powertrain – https://youtu.be/jjbyr8SXqxg?si=73ogXGDY3UEmftYu Watch all episodes and keep up to speed with the development programme – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU_-LKRlRNynCFhyagbvYzPZ1mzfzzS88&si=wSlgmtQlIV4glwwK Denmark, 12 August 2025: As the Zenvo Aurora programme continues towards its 2026 production target, development of the ‘Mjølner’ powertrain is accelerating. The pioneering set up goes against convention, ensuring Aurora is a truly global hypercar. The most powerful production V12 ever built, while also meeting global emissions standards. With Zenvo Automotive preparing to showcase the Aurora at Monterey Car Week in California, the latest episode in the Zenvo Automotive docuseries provides a unique insight into the challenges and details of this groundbreaking powertrain. Working with engine experts MAHLE Powertrain, the collaborative team leading the project explains what goes into developing, packaging and delivering a system capable of delivering 1,250bhp, integrating with a state-of-the-art hybrid system, revving to 9,800rpm, without compromising any of the driveability. The all-new powertrain combines the latest technologies with tried and tested methods and processes, pulling on decades of experience held by MAHLE Powertrain. This collaborative approach has pushed industry boundaries, requiring out-of-the-box thinking to achieve the performance, efficiencies and engagement which were set at the beginning of the ambitious project. The result is a powertrain benefitting from ideas, approaches and best practices, while achieving global emissions targets through the entire lifespan the engine. “We always knew that the Aurora project was going to be a push for what was possible through conventional and regular thinking,” explains Jens Sverdrup, Chairman and CCO, Zenvo Automotive. “Was an off-the-shelf system more straightforward? Of course. Was it ever an option? Absolutely not. Aurora is about delivering no compromises, and that means developing our own powertrain which delivers exactly what we wanted, exactly how we wanted it. Like the car itself, the ‘Mjølner’ powertrain pushes the boundaries of what can be done from an engineering perspective. No compromise.” Watch the latest insight into the Aurora programme here. ENDS Zenvo media contact:Tim HuttonCommunications DirectorMob: +44 (0)7868 363005Email: t.hutton@zenvoautomotive.com About Zenvo Automotive:Zenvo Automotive is a producer of limited-edition hypercars based in Præstø, Denmark. Founded in 2007, Zenvo was started with the aim of combining the latest technologies and innovation with an analogue feel, offering the driver a true connection and astonishing performance. In August 2023, Zenvo revealed the all-new Aurora, a V12 hypercar that will be available in Agil and Tur model designations. Limited to just a handful of cars per year, Aurora continues its intense and extensive development throughout 2025, with first deliveries expected late in 2026. Every Zenvo Aurora will be hand-assembled in Denmark, available to collectors and enthusiasts globally, with world-class customer support via a carefully curated retailer network. Social media:Instagram: www.instagram.com/ZenvoAutomotiveFacebook: www.facebook.com/ZenvoAutomotiveOfficialYouTube: www.youtube.com/c/ZenvoAutomotive/videosLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/zenvoautomotive

Former CEOs of McLaren, Lotus and Alpine join British sportscar manufacturer Longbow

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. High-profile industry leaders from Lotus, McLaren and Alpine join Longbow as they continue their path towards manufacturing Mike Flewitt, Michael van der Sande, and Dan Balmer to lead board of advisors Longbow, the pioneering British electric sportscar manufacturer, will offer hand-built, sub-1000kg sportscars: Speedster and Roadster For more information, visit longbowmotors.com Click to watch the video 12 August 2025 – Longbow, the pioneering British electric sportscar manufacturer, has further strengthened its ranks with three former heavyweight automotive CEOs. Dan Balmer, Mike Flewitt, and Michael van der Sande. The three will lead a board of world-class advisors as Longbow accelerates towards manufacturing of its driver-obsessed Featherweight Electric Vehicles (FEVs), the Speedster and Roadster. Mike Flewitt, Advisor at Longbow, commented: “British engineering has long been a point of national pride, but there’s a case to be made that we’ve fallen behind. Longbow represents a return to form, a novel idea with rigorous execution and a team with experience to make it happen. It’s an opportunity to be part of British automotive history, creating iconic sportscars that follow a timeless recipe, albeit with an electric twist.” Michael van der Sande, Advisor at Longbow, commented: “Fast, agile, not too heavy, not too complicated and, most importantly, something that puts a smile on your face every day. It’s a compelling concept in theory, promising to be totally captivating in reality: an electric sportscar for people who love driving. Development of a market-defining FEV is by no means a simple task, but Longbow has an exceptional team that knows what it takes.” Dan Balmer, Advisor at Longbow, commented: “Longbow’s motto ‘Speed of Lightness’ is not just about the sportscars, it’s also about an agile team, optimised product, and accelerated development – lessons the Longbow team learned at some of the world’s most successful EV startups. I am thrilled to be advising Longbow, working with founders Daniel, Mark and Jenny to bring their FEV vision to life.” Senior Advisors onboardLongbow’s appointment of Dan Balmer, Mike Flewitt and Michael van der Sande continues momentum for the brand towards manufacturing its featherweight electric sportscars in the UK, starting in 2026. Their collective experience spans critical leadership roles across Lotus, McLaren, Aston Martin, Tesla and Lucid, offering an additional depth of expertise. The advisory board will help provide invaluable strategic insight as the Longbow leadership team continues on its route to production and beyond. Flewitt’s expertise in manufacturing and scaling production, particularly from his time at McLaren Automotive, will bolster Longbow as it prepares to fulfil demand for its hand-built British sportscars. Launching and growing automotive brands has long been a strength of van der Sande, having led Tesla’s European launch, Alpine’s global relaunch, and Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations’s exponential global growth. Balmer’s background in engineering, manufacturing, marketing, sales, and commercial strategy spans iconic brands such as Aston Martin and Lotus; he will help Longbow to further hone its brand identity and go-to-market activities. The promising road aheadLongbow offers a unique take on the rich British tradition of lightweight sportscars, focusing on real-road performance with an experience crafted around the driver. Development of its first two vehicles, Speedster and Roadster, has pursued a singular philosophy: simplify, focus on beauty and connection, then add lightness, until all that remains is automotive intoxication. All Longbow models are designed, engineered, and will be hand-built in the UK. Each will benefit from the best, most proven supply chain for high-performance vehicle components, allowing Longbow to optimise for performance, feel, and reliability. Both Speedster and Roadster will feature a pioneering powertrain package focused on weight, dynamics, performance, longevity and range. Mark Tapscott, COO at Longbow, commented: “At Longbow, we live by a few simple principles, and central to these is: we can never have too much good advice. Whether it’s engineering details, company strategy, customer community building and even design suggestions, we listen. Combining strength in our conviction to move at the Speed of Lightness with the humility to learn from the incredible expert experience around us is how we’ll build the best outcome for the road ahead.” Reservations are open now for the limited edition vehicles longbowmotors.com Ends Images are available here: https://we.tl/t-FiEmEMAOkUHigh resolution video file can be downloaded here: https://we.tl/t-sFGGCGpIty Media Contactpress@longbowmotors.com About LongbowLongbow is the pioneering British lightweight electric sportscar manufacturer. It offers a thoroughly modern take on the time-tested concept of a featherweight British sportscar. Each Longbow is hand-built in the UK and embodies lightweight agility, impeccable engineering, masterful craftsmanship, and an intimately connected driving experience. Deliveries for its first two models, the Longbow Speedster and Longbow Roadster, are set for 2026. Longbow was founded in 2023 by Daniel Davey, Jenny Keisu, and Mark Tapscott. longbowmotors.com