Guild Award celebrates motorsport achievement

Motorsport and technology specialist Prodrive sponsors award Award recognises Guild members writing about or competing in motorsport Trophy and cash prize to be presented at gala dinner in December There is just a week left for Guild of Motoring Writers members working in motorsport to enter this year’s Prodrive Motorsport Award. The Award, which recognises an outstanding achievement by a Guild member in the world of motorsport either writing about or competing in motorsport at any level, carries an additional significance this year as its sponsor, Banbury-based but globally renowned motorsport and technology specialist Prodrive, celebrates its 40th year in the sport. The award winner will receive a £500 cash prize as well as a trophy, presented at the Guild’s annual Dinner at the RAC Club, Pall Mall in December. In 2023 the Award was won by Maurice Hamilton, who received his award from Prodrive Motorsport’s Business Development Manager, Richard Taylor. The judges gave top marks to Maurice, twice a previous winner of this award, for his brilliantly-written, cautionary and timely analysis of Ford as the brand prepares to step back into F1 racing. Also Highly Commended were members Indira Flack for her photographic work and Guy Loveridge for his commentary at historic motorsport events. The Prodrive Award is one of 14 categories available to enter in this year’s Guild Awards, with cash prizes and trophies on offer. The period for submitting entries will last until midnight on Monday 30th September and, following judging, finalists will be announced in November. Guild judges will select from up to three submissions per entry, with the best single piece of work from three entrants selected to make up the finalists of each category. For full details on all the award categories, prize money and an entry form go to: http://www.gomw.co.uk/awards Candidates are advised to read the online instructions carefully before entering. If you have any questions about the entry procedure or want to apply for Guild membership contact Honorary Secretary, Richard Netherwood email: honsec@gomw.co.uk.

Victory and second for Gorini & Tamburini’s Maserati GT2 at Monza in Fanatec GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli

The House of the Trident monopolised the podium in Race 1, with three cars taking all three podium placings Monza, 22 September 2024 – The renovated Autodromo Nazionale di Monza saw Maserati take centre stage in both races in round 5 of the Fanatec GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli. In Race 1, the House of the Trident monopolised the podium with three cars taking all three podium placings. Victory went to the duo of Leonardo Gorini and Carlo Tamburini duo at the wheel of the number 1 Maserati GT2 fielded by LP Racing, ahead of Alexandre Leroy (number 24 with TFT Racing), who took pole position and won the AM class. The third step on the podium went to Philippe Prette (in the number 2 with LP Racing), also making him the runner-up in his class. In Race 2, Gorini & Tamburini took an important second place in a comeback, a result that means they can still battle for an overall win in the championship. Philippe Prette, on the other hand, was unlucky and was on his way to finishing in fourth and at the top of the AM class: due to a puncture in the last lap he finished ninth and fourth in his class. Conversely, Alexandre Leroy was forced to withdraw due to contact with an opponent. At the Monza event, a fourth Maserati GT2 also made its debut in the Fanatec GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli. Fielded by Dinamic Motorsport with drivers Mauro Calamia and Roberto Pampanini, it was unfortunately unable to finish Race 1 due to an accident that stopped it lining up for the next race. The Maserati GT2s immediately took centre stage at the start of Race 1, behind poleman Alexandre Leroy. After the safety car had to come on, the House of the Trident’s cars took the first three placings, with Gorini managing to overtake both Prette and Leroy at first. The situation crystallized after the pit stop, with Tamburini gaining ground again and consolidating his lead to finish ahead of Leroy and Prette, for an all-Maserati podium. The second race saw Gorini & Tamburini face a comeback race, due to an issue during qualifying that forced them to start from the back. Tamburini immediately started at a great pace and moves into runner-up position after a few laps. Prette and Leroy were also aiming for the podium and decided to make a pit stop at the beginning of the window. Unfortunately, Leroy was forced to abandon due to a contact in the first chicane, with Prette falling victim to a puncture on the last lap, relegating him into ninth. Gorini, who took over from Tamburini in the number 1 Maserati GT2, got closer and closer to the tread, only failing to reach him for a short time during the last lap. As runners-up, however, Gorini & Tamburini remain in the running for overall victory at the final round in Barcelona, due to take place from 11 to 13 October. Prette and Leroy can also still win the title in the AM class. At Monza, during the race weekend of the Fanatec GT2 European Series championship powered by Pirelli, the new Maserati GT2 Stradale super sports car was also previewed for the first time. Officially unveiled in August at the prestigious Monterey Car Week in California, the car is an ode to the most extraordinary and exclusive sportiness, the fruit of the technical and stylistic union between the Maserati GT2, an epitome of performance created for the brand’s return to closed-wheel competitions, and Maserati MC20, an iconic Trident car imbued with an unmistakable style.GT2 Stradale is a car rooted on the track and type-approved for use on the road, with the ability to combine the extreme, refined performance of the racing world with the option of driving it as an everyday car. The best of the MC20 and GT2, standard-bearers of Maserati’s racing DNA: top speed of 324 km/h; maximum output increased to 640 hp (471 kW), 10 hp more than the MC20; acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, making it the most agile rear-wheel drive (RWD) in its category. On the Monza track together with the Maserati GT2 and GT2 Stradale had to be the interpreter of the Italian brand’s most absolute exclusivity: MCXtrema. The 740 hp racing car, approved for track use only and dedicated to the excellence of gentleman drivers and racing car enthusiasts, has been produced in only 62 units. To conclude the racing season, Maserati will be putting forward its GT2s in the final round of the 2024 Fanatec GT2 European Series Powered by Pirelli season, due to take place from 11 to 13 October in Barcelona, Spain. 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.…

Victorious Volvo wins a host of trophies in the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2025 Awards

London, 20 September 2024 : The Volvo XC60 T6 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Plus has won this year’s overall trophy and been crowned Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2025 as well as winning three other categories; Caravan weight over 1800kg, Family Towcars and Hybrid Towcars. The mightily impressive Volvo XC60 T6 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Plus wowed the judges with its effortless performance, towing capability, ease of driving, comfort levels and roomy interior which is ideal for discerning caravanners. The XC60 is a seriously impressive towcar. The Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year, the leisure vehicle industry’s original and longest standing towcar testing awards, put 33 top class entrants through their paces around the UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground’s demanding and world-class testing facilities. The 33 entrants were put into caravan weight categories – rather than being listed by price – to make it easier for buyers to know which cars could tow their caravans. Cars were divided into seven weight categories, plus categories for Pick-Up Towcars, Family Towcar, Large Family Towcar, Electric Towcar, Hybrid Towcar and Luxury Towcar. Electric power continued its advance with six of this year’s entrants being plug-in hybrids and nine being pure electric. And variety was the name of the game across all the entries – from estate cars to luxury SUVs, crossovers to MPVs, hard-core 4x4s like the Ineos Grenadier to the wind-cheating Hyundai Ioniq 6 electric saloon, the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2025 had everything. Every one of the cars featured in this year’s competition has been extensively evaluated – for more information about each model, including technical data, visit camc.com/towcar. The complete winners’ line-up: Caravan weight under 1200kgVolkswagen ID.7 Match Pro 77kWh 286PSThe Volkswagen ID.7 Match Pro 77kWh 286PS easily took the category win. It came out on top on account of its spacious interior, huge boot, and beautifully supple ride. And depending on trim, the ID.7 can travel impressive distances on one charge – Volkswagen claims up to 436 miles unhitched. Caravan weight 1200kg – 1300kgVolkswagen Golf Estate Style 1.5 eTSI 150PS DSGThe Volkswagen Golf has long been the default choice for those who want a well-engineered car with timeless styling and a quality, practical interior. Judges liked the Golf’s nimble handling, comfortable ride, responsive mild-hybrid engine, and simply enormous boot. Caravan weight 1300kg – 1500kgŠKODA Superb Estate 1.5 TSi e-TEC 150PS DSG The Skoda Superb has long been a Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year favourite. This generation of Superb has only just arrived in the UK and it boasts a larger interior than the outgoing model, as well as a new look. In this SE L guise, the judges liked its smooth and quiet driving manners, rear legroom – it rivals that of a limousine – and enormous boot. The 148bhp, 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine provides good all-round performance and fuel economy. Judges loved the Superb’s stability at low and high speeds, and excellent rear visibility when reversing a caravan. Caravan weight 1500kg – 1600kg & Luxury Towcars & Electric TowcarsBMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro Touring The 5 Series Touring has traditionally been a great towcar and the brand new electric version (the first ever electric 5 Series) keeps up the tradition. It’s a luxurious estate car with a wonderful blend of desirable features that bowled over the judges. BMW’s latest interiors offer outstanding tech and fantastic build quality, while there’s loads of space in the back seats and boot. Engaging handling just sealed the deal. It also took the Electric Towcar and Luxury Towcar category wins for its fantastic drive, a claimed solo 324-mile range from its 81.2kWh battery, and plush feel. Caravan weight 1600kg – 1700kgHyundai IONIQ 5 Ultimate 77.4kWh 328PS AWD Another electric car taking class honours, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 really impressed the judging panel this year. Here in 77.4kWh all-wheel drive form, the vehicle was praised for its smooth performance, super-fast charging capability, cool looks, driving range and hugely spacious interior and refined drive. It’s a deceptively large car, and 2025 model year vehicles get a larger 82kWh battery pack and longer range. Caravan weight 1700kg – 1800kgVolvo V90 T8 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Ultra Volvo took the sad decision to remove its estate cars from the UK in August 2023 citing falling appetite for load-luggers. But now the V60 and the larger V90 estates have returned – and it’s great news because Volvo estates have always made for great towcars. The V90 now only comes with plug-in hybrid power, and that means silky smooth performance even when the battery is depleted. It’s a classy, traditional choice that tows confidently and has a fantastically practical interior. Pick-Up TowcarsVolkswagen Commercial Vehicles Amarok PanAmericana 3.0 TDI 4MOTION 240PS autoSome caravan owners want a workhorse during the week and a vehicle that can easily haul a caravan at weekends and over summer holidays – and the Volkswagen Amarok is the best pick-up for that this year. It’s built as part of a technology partnership with Ford, with the Amarok being very closely related to the Ford Ranger, but the Amarok has that certain extra little something. Its upmarket looks are matched to an equally upmarket interior, which shows pick-ups don’t have to be unrefined and agricultural. It has good on-road manners, is hugely capable off-road, and tows with serious competency. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel is punchy, and the ride is decent when hitched. Large Family TowcarsVolkswagen Commercial Vehicles Multivan Style 2.0 TDI 150PS DSGThis is the third year running that the Multivan has walked off with a Large Family Towcar category win, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a great vehicle, being easy to drive and park, well-mannered on different road types and simply enormous inside. The interior can be configured in various ways, boosting flexibility too. The 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel is a good engine. If you need space, the Mulitivan can’t be beaten. Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2025 & Caravan weight over 1800kg & Family Towcars & Hybrid…

Production of the new CUPRA Terramar begins at the Audi plant in Györ

The CUPRA Terramar, the brand’s new sporty SUV, moves CUPRA upmarket into the fastest growing segment in Europe Production is taking place at the Audi factory in Györ, Hungary, the largest engine plant in the world, and will be hitting the streets at the beginning of November Producing the CUPRA Terramar at the Audi plant leverages resources and expertise from both brands, optimising the manufacturing process Part of CUPRA’s biggest product offensive to date, the CUPRA Terramar premiered earlier this month at the America’s Cup in Barcelona Martorell, 20-09-2024 – CUPRA has begun a new chapter in its story with the start of production of its latest hero, the CUPRA Terramar, at the Audi factory in Györ, Hungary. The challenger brand’s new sporty SUV moves CUPRA upmarket into the fastest growing segment in Europe and will introduce the brand to a whole new generation of Tribe members. According to Wayne Griffiths, CEO of CUPRA: “With today’s milestone, CUPRA takes an important step forward in the brand’s journey. With the CUPRA Terramar, we will not only grow our product portfolio but at the same time help our brand grow-up by bringing the CUPRA mindset to new customers and new growing segments, without losing our rebellious and challenger spirit.” From Martorell to GyörThe collaboration between the German and the Spanish companies goes back to 2011 with the start of production of the Audi Q3 at the SEAT S.A. factory in Martorell, with nearly 800,000 units manufactured, and the Audi A1, with close to 400,000 units produced since 2018. Now, with the production of the CUPRA Terramar, Györ will become Audi’s first factory to produce vehicles of a sister brand. With over 12,000 employees and a yearly production volume of over 170,000 vehicles and more than 1,600,000 engines, Györ is the largest engine plant in the world. Producing the CUPRA Terramar in Györ offers several advantages, including process optimisations. Seamless collaboration between the CUPRA and Audi teams for over four years has been crucial in bringing the CUPRA Terramar to market. “By leveraging the combined expertise of CUPRA and Audi, we have successfully integrated and optimised our processes. This was made possible through our adaptability and the synergies within the Volkswagen Group. This project is a clear example of how joining forces benefits us all, making us more competitive and setting the stage for future collaborations that will allow us to continue to grow,” said Markus Haupt, Vice-President for Production and Logistics at CUPRA. A new hero of a new eraThe CUPRA Terramar pays homage to the place where the brand was first introduced to the world in 2018: The CUPRA Terramar race circuit in Sitges. Premiered at the America’s Cup in Barcelona earlier in September, the CUPRA Terramar is available in petrol, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions and nine colours, including two matt options – Century Bronze Matt and Enceladus Grey Matt, which have been specifically introduced at the Györ plant for this project.

Kia EV9 victorious at Business Car 2024 Awards

Kia EV9 named ‘Best Premium Large SUV’ Kia Niro family highly commended for ‘Best Compact SUV’ Continued streak of success at Business Car Awards for Kia UK At the Business Car 2024 Awards ceremony last night, hosted at the Hilton London Bankside Hotel, the Kia EV9 added to its ever-growing cabinet of prestigious awards, being named ‘Best Premium Large SUV’. Fending off a number of large SUV models from a wide array of established ‘premium’ brands, the Kia EV9 impressed judges thoroughly, beating plenty of EV and ICE models alike. The Business Car judges praised the EV9, saying: “The idea of a £65,000+ Kia SUV would not have been possible before the EV6 that was launched in 2021 – such is the acceleration of the Korean brand. The EV9 looks distinctive, but it’s a practical seven-seater, that’s good to drive, and the efficiency is ace.” Since its launch in 2023, the Kia EV9 has proved a hit with retail and business customers alike, with fleet and business sales currently accounting for more than 60% of all UK EV9 sales thus far in 2024, with customers taking advantage of its 2% Benefit-in-Kind tax rate, range of up to 349 miles on a single charge and ultra-fast 800V charging capability1. The Kia Niro family also maintained its positive reputation, being highly commended in the ‘Compact SUV’ category. This award represents yet another year of success for Kia at the Business Car Awards, with the brand last year collecting the prize of ‘Best Medium SUV’, going to the ever-popular Sportage.

Safe2Drive announces The Fleet Safety Academy as new partner to deliver fleet management support

Safe2Drive, experts in road risk management, are pleased to announce a new partnership with The Fleet Safety Academy to deliver fleet management support. The Fleet Safety Academy, is a unique on-line solution designed for all types of fleet operators to easily access and provides a comprehensive management solution for driving at work activities. Businesses using The Fleet Safety Academy’s on-line driving at work management framework can quickly access all the ready-to-use legal guidance, compliance procedures and template documents that tackle occupational road risk, along with essential advice and video training modules for drivers, all focused on reducing collision frequency and claims costs across driving at work activities. Allan Gibbons, Safe2Drive founder commented “When looking for a partner, it was important for us, that both businesses are aligned with our mission to deliver a-best-in-sector product for our clients. The Fleet Academy has over 25 years of fleet risk management knowledge and continually updates and adds new resources to ensure that fleets have access to fit for purpose and best practice guidance. “It’s a business, like ours, that is run by very experienced sector professionals and recognises, and is passionate, about the importance of road safety risk management and driver training, which ensures that business and drivers stay safe and compliant”. Owners of The Fleet Safety Academy James and Victoria Woolridge commented “We are delighted to be partnering with the Safe2Drive business and look forward to providing valuable fleet risk management and support to their clients. Fleets choosing to work with Safe2Drive really are in the best hands to ensure that their business and drivers are legally compliant, alongside our on-line driving at work management solution which ensures managers and drivers are properly supported.” Driver education and training are crucial for any fleet operator wishing to raise driving standards as this helps ensure compliance with safety standards, legislation, and governance. The Fleet Academy video training for drivers is crucial for businesses which rely on vehicle operations, as education raises driving standards leading to fewer collisions and reduced insurance costs. Whilst the resources in The Academy provide a seamless solution for Managers to follow and implement that reduces fleet risk and delivers a joined up framework. The innovative Safe2Drive business platform enables both a fleet manager and employee, via the Safe2Drive ‘App’ to jointly manage important exchange of confidential driving licence information to ensure that the driver has the correct driving licence credentials to drive for work. Furthermore, the Safe2Drive platform also provides data about ‘Grey Fleet’* vehicles to determine their legal compliance & safety, along with their environmental impact that can assist with their business analysis. The Safe2Drive platform can be fully integrated into existing business systems and can incorporate the clients corporate branding to ensure a seamless look and feel for users. *Employee owned and insured vehicles

Hyundai Motor and Škoda Group to collaborate on hydrogen advancement and energy efficient solutions for mobility

Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Korea-Czech Business Summit in Prague Both parties to cooperate in establishing a hydrogen economy and realizing a sustainable future mobility ecosystem Škoda Group to explore hydrogen mobility expansion by adopting Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel cell systems and technologies SEOUL / PRAGUE, September 20, 2024 – Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to commence collaboration on establishing a hydrogen mobility ecosystem. The signing ceremony, which took place at the Korea-Czech Republic Business Summit in Prague, was attended by Ken Ramírez, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business at Hyundai Motor Company, and Petr Novotný, CEO of Škoda Group The MOU covers study on adoption of hydrogen fuel cell systems and technologies, study on adoption of energy efficient solutions for mobility projects and products, and exploring hydrogen ecosystem and value chain opportunities beyond mobility. “Our partnership with Škoda Group aims to accelerate hydrogen adoption, which would contribute to the advancement of hydrogen technology and carbon neutrality across global markets, including the Czech Republic,” said Executive Vice President Ramírez. “Together with Škoda Group, we strive to lead the rapidly growing hydrogen businesses by creating positive synergies between our fuel cell technology and Škoda Group’s mobility products and projects.” “We believe that hydrogen, alongside energy-efficient solutions, will play an essential role in transforming mobility for a more sustainable future. Our collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company aims at enabling us to look beyond national borders and explore wider markets where these technologies can have a larger impact. By working together, we can bring innovative, eco-friendly solutions to the global mobility ecosystem, advancing cleaner energy in the areas where it’s needed most,” said Petr Novotný, CEO of Škoda Group. Both parties share the view that hydrogen will be a key pillar for a sustainable society, starting with mobility. As part of the MOU, the parties will explore the possibility that Hyundai would share its fuel cell system and technology, contributing to the acceleration of eco-friendly mobility across global markets where Škoda Group operates, including the Czech Republic. Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group will also conduct feasibility studies for fuel cell system applications for diverse utilization beyond mobility. Leveraging its global expertise and insights in operating various hydrogen applications in both mobility and energy sectors, Hyundai is poised to play a pivotal role in aiding the energy transition. Hyundai Motor Group is committed to building a hydrogen society under its hydrogen value chain business brand HTWO, which encompasses the Group’s businesses and affiliates, enabling each stage of the entire hydrogen value chain. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech (HMMC) in Nošovice, established in 2008, has an annual manufacturing capacity of 350,000 vehicles. Considered one of the most modern car manufacturers in Europe, the manufacturing plant was also the largest foreign investment in the Czech Republic.

GEM tops Which? 2024 survey of breakdown providers

Drivers put GEM at the top of the table in the latest Which? survey of breakdown providers GEM scores highly for value for money, fast response times and fixing faults at the roadside Drivers praise the helpfulness and friendly approach of GEM’s office staff and recovery network Drivers have put GEM Motoring Assist at the top of the table in the latest Which? survey of breakdown providers. The organisation, founded in 1932, achieved first place out of 15 other providers within the category to become a Which? Recommended Provider for Breakdown Services 2024. GEM scored particularly highly for its overall excellent value for money, its fast response times and its ability to fix faults at the roadside. Drivers also praised the helpfulness and friendly approach of GEM’s office staff and recovery network. GEM Chairman Lee Puffett said: “This is such good news for everyone at GEM and for the extensive network of professionals who are on hand round the clock, every day of the year for our members.“ I would like to thank everyone who took time to provide feedback in the survey. Your support and confidence in our service is greatly appreciated. “We have been keeping our members on the move since 1932 and this latest accolade offers a powerful incentive to continue providing the best possible service for every GEM member.” GEM’s great value comprehensive personal breakdown cover automatically includes home and roadside assistance, nationwide recovery and onward travel, as well as full membership and a quarterly magazine.

BMW Group UK triumphs at the Business Car Awards 2024

BMW named Fleet Manufacturer of the Year for the third consecutive year Overall ‘Business Car of the Year’ awarded to the all-new MINI Cooper Four additional wins for BMW Group across a range of categories BMW i4, 5 Series, X1 and MINI Cooper each top their respective class BMW Group UK is celebrating another successful year at the 2024 Business Car Awards, with BMW retaining the coveted Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title for a third consecutive year. Boasting more options for fleets than ever before, MINI also came out on top as the all-new MINI Cooper garners two wins, including overall Business Car of the Year. A further three accolades were awarded across the product portfolio, with BMW i4, BMW 5 Series and BMW X1 each topping their respective categories. On presenting the headline award, Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car Magazine said, “With its model range growing again this year, especially from the MINI side, BMW has its most complete offering ever for fleet and continues to build on its strong record – particularly with EVs. Support for company car drivers is equally impressive, with further innovations for its ‘Corporate Certified’ programme, aimed at improving the retailer experience.” All-new MINI Cooper crowned overall Business Car of the Year.Launched earlier this year and offered with a choice of either an all-electric or combustion-engine powertrain, the all-new MINI Cooper prevailed at this year’s Business Car Awards, topping the small car class before clinching overall Business Car of the Year. Judges praised the model’s “simplified styling”, “high-tech, retro-influenced interior” and the “excellent” 250-mile range, with Business Car commenting, “This year the MINI Hatch – now called the Cooper – received a high-tech makeover, but its premium feel remains unchanged, and whether you choose ICE or EV power, all are great to drive. Add this all up, with the Electric version’s credible range, and this is an attractive small car package that will really appeal to fleet.” With the launch of the new MINI family the brand has introduced a compelling fleet offering for a range of market segments. In addition to the MINI Cooper, the larger MINI Countryman Electric and forthcoming all-electric MINI Aceman both provide an impressive single-charge range of up to 287* and 252 miles* respectively. The entire MINI lineup boasts a high level of standard equipment, including a state-of-the-art circular OLED display, sustainable interior materials, and all-new MINI Experience Modes. Company car buyers can also take advantage of a low benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax rate of 2 per cent across the all-electric model range. BMW i4, 5 Series and X1 each top their respective class.Recently refreshed with new design details, revised headlights and optional Laserlight tail lights, the BMW i4 continues to impress almost three years after its original debut, receiving the award for Best Premium Car. Commenting on the win, Business Car said, “Despite more EV and ICE-powered rivals, none can still touch the BMW i4. Whether you go for the eDrive 35, or the range-topping M50, the excellent electric range is trustworthy, it oozes driver appeal, and it’s practical with the hatchback design.” Continuing its impressive 2024 winning streak, the BMW 5 Series retains the top spot as Business Car’s Best Executive Car for the fifth consecutive year. On presenting the gong, judges said, “The replacement for the last 5 Series had big shoes to fill, but whether you choose EV, PHEV, or ICE power, the i5/5 Series remains our executive pick. It looks great inside and out, there’s the additional choice of Touring estate versions, and all offer a keen drive.” Rounding up the awards, the third generation BMW X1 solidifies its position as Business Car’s Best Premium Medium SUV, securing the title for the second year running. Judges described the model as “an attractive package” with a “spacious interior”, “willing performance” and “a great drive, plus the accomplished range for EV and plug-in versions equals low running costs.” Reflecting on BMW Group’s success at this year’s awards, Matt Collins, General Manager, Corporate Sales BMW Group UK, said, “We are incredibly proud to retain Business Car’s Fleet Manufacturer of the Year title for a third consecutive year. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Corporate Sales team, who continue to strive for excellence in serving the evolving needs of our corporate customers. We’re equally delighted by the recognition MINI has received at this year’s awards – it’s a real honour for the MINI Cooper to be crowned overall Business Car of the Year. The additional four category wins really are the icing on the cake.”

Cars meet couture: AGTZ Twin Tail x Vionnet Paris dazzles at Chantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille

Already a star of the automotive world, AGTZ Twin Tail has entered a new space: couture. The spectacular coachbuilt GT was displayed at Chantilly Arts et Elegance Richard Mille alongside its A220 inspiration plus a set of spectacular outfits by French haute couture brand Vionnet Paris. Vionnet Paris has selected four dresses that evoke the technical and automotive world through innovative fabrics. They demonstrate the truly flexible nature of the car, evoking past, present and futuristic fashion principles to display a very clear link to AGTZ Twin Tail’s transformative long- and shorttail bodywork. Founded in Paris in 1912 by Madeleine Vionnet, the brand has become synonymous with revolutionary design. This collaboration, enabled by an established relationship with Zagato, is a testament to the common values of Vionnet Paris, Zagato and La Squadra — heritage, high craftsmanship and a visionary spirit. The outfits’ volumes and three-dimensionality mirror the duality of AGTZ Twin Tail, with four dresses chosen from two different collections: two sheath dresses honour the past with inspiration from original designs by Madeleine Vionnet, while two slip dresses look ahead with a fresh interpretation of her timeless elegance and craftsmanship. The reflective and fluid nature of the fabrics of these creations, combined with the diagonal design, evoke the dynamism of the car they shared the spotlight with at Chantilly. One car. Two souls.AGTZ Twin Tail takes a modern mid-engined icon and carves it into a unique sculpture. Its party piece is its transformational bodywork– the jaw-dropping recognition of its A220 racecar inspiration which enjoyed a new lease of life on circuit when its engineers sliced 30cm from its elegant, longtail shape to create a muscular new shorttail. This bold idea was brought to life for the 21st century by legendary Atelier Zagato. Production has already begun and order books are filling fast, with esteemed collectors and automotive icons already on the list. A vast array of options allows each owner to curate a unique work of art with renowned supercar distributor La Squadra holding their hand every step of the way. Beautiful coachbuilt bodywork. Iconic heritage liveries. Uniquely removable longtail. Let’s create something extraordinary together. AGTZ Twin Tail. One car. Two souls. About Chantilly ConcoursChantilly Arts & Elegance Richard Mille evokes the early days of Concours d’Elégance events while uniting car designs of the future with fashion. It invites automotive manufacturers and designers to display their latest designs alongside models wearing beautiful clothes from esteemed fashion houses in a unique parade at Château de Chantilly, a romantic castle setting north of Paris. About La SquadraJakub Pietrzak created La Squadra in Katowice, Poland in 2013 to bring together folk with an unbridled passion for cars. It distributes esteemed brands such as Ferrari, Pagani, Koenigsegg, Bugatti and Alpine, fulfilling its customers’ automotive dreams by connecting them with dynamic works of art that’ll form a crucial part of their family years to come. As well as taking care of their valuable service history, La Squadra encourages its clients to fulfil the potential of their cars at unique events that galvanise an enthusiastic community. www.lasquadra.plFacebook: @LaSquadraConceptInstagram: @lasquadra About ZagatoFounded in Milan, Italy in 1919, the story of Zagato is already over a century old. Its unique mix of engineering pragmatism and artisanal craftsmanship has seen Atelier Zagato achieve results which go beyond the usual understanding of car design. Its place within the ChimHaeres Group enabled this special collaboration with Vionnet Paris. www.zagato.itFacebook: @zagato1919Instagram: @zagato1919 About La Squadra x ZagatoOur truly special partnership sees Zagato focus on car design and production while La Squadra handles sales and marketing for our unmistakable collaborations. By thinking exclusively in very limited production numbers, we bring the classic coachbuilding spirit right into the modern era, responding to clients’ needs with unrivalled focus and a smart, technological backbone. We will cater to the desires of discerning collectors who seek exclusive and provocative cars which push design boundaries; cars which incorporate futuristic aesthetics and novel design elements to combine form and function in jaw-dropping fashion. www.lasquadra.pl/agtztwintai www.agtztwintail.comFacebook: @AGTZTwinTailInstagram: @agtztwintail Media enquiries: media@agtztwintail.comMobile: +48 532 358 070 Contact:Mateusz Widuch, CMO for AGTZ Twin TailMobile: +48 789 094 627, e-mail: mateusz.widuch@lasquadra.pl Images for press and social media: www.agtztwintail.com