Balazs Rooz, Regional Director Bentley Europe, to leave the company

Industry News

Balazs Rooz, Regional Director of Bentley Motors in Europe since June 2020, leaves the company at his own request and by mutual consent with immediate effect Richard Leopold, Regional Director UK and MEAI, to also manage European region (Crewe, 8 July 2024) Bentley Motors has announced that Balazs Rooz, Regional Director Europe, will leave Bentley at his own request and by mutual consent. The region will be led by Richard Leopold in addition to his responsibilities as Regional Director of the UK and MEAI. The moves are immediate. Christophe Georges, Global Sales and Marketing Director, commented: “I would like to take the opportunity to thank Balazs for his contribution over his four years at Bentley and wish him well for his future.” Richard Leopold, Regional Director UK and MEAI, adds: “I am excited to now also manage the European region building on the great work that Balazs has done in getting the new Continental GT off to such a powerful start. I look forward very much to working with the Bentley Europe team and the network of experienced retailers.” Richard Leopold joined Bentley Motors in 2007. He has a deep understanding of complex regional markets, as well as a wealth of experience in the automotive sector at the retail and wholesale levels, having previously led executive roles at Saab and Bentley.

Renault pop-up store provides an electrifying test drive opportunity at London’s Westfield Shopping Centre

Industry News

Renault is inviting visitors to London’s Westfield Shopping Centre to enjoy a test drive of a trio of electrified E-Tech models, including the ‘Car of the Year 2024’, Scenic E-Tech 100% electric Award-winning Megane E-Tech 100% electric and Austral E-Tech full hybrid also available to test drive Renault pop up store will be open from 6-28 July, housing a model display that includes one of the first public outings of the forthcoming, pure electric Renault 5 Family-focused Renault store also features a dedicated games and activity area, merchandise and a French patisserie Six hours free parking for those who take a test drive, bookable in advance here Renault is giving shoppers the chance to explore the benefits of switching to an electrified car with an innovative pop-up store and test drive at Westfield London Shopping Centre. Open until 28 July at the popular Shepherd’s Bush retail destination, the eye-catching store will be a hub for visitors to discover the latest electrified additions to the rapidly-growing Renault range, including the family-focused Scenic E-Tech 100% electric – the current ‘Car of the Year’. As well as being able to try the distinctive models for size and enjoy a guided ‘walkaround’ from a Renault expert, visitors can experience them on the local roads in personalised test drives. Together with the chance to test drive the multi-award-winning Scenic E-Tech electric, shoppers can also get behind the wheel of the Megane E-Tech 100% electric and Austral E-Tech full hybrid. Those interested in taking a test drive can book their slot in advance here. Once they have completed their test drive, they will then receive up to six hours of free parking at the venue, ensuring they can make the most of their visit to what is Europe’s largest indoor mall with over 500 retail stores. The car of the year 2024, Renault Scenic, will be on show inside the family-friendly store, with the forthcoming and eagerly awaited pure-electric Renault 5 also on public display for one of the first times in the UK. The latest generation of the legendary supermini is represented in a dedicated Renault 5 area with games and merchandise. A selection of products from the brand’s ‘The Originals’ merchandise collection will be available and for those feeling a little peckish, there’s a refreshment area with a French patisserie. David Isherwood, Marketing Director, Renault UK, said: “Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric and our wider electrified E-Tech range are designed for modern living, combining optimum space and usability with style, high levels of connectivity and a fun driving experience. Making them conveniently available during people’s visits to Westfield Shopping Centre demonstrates just how easily they can fit into their lifestyle and allows all the family to enjoy the experience of electrified driving.”

Volvo Car UK introduces new Black Edition models and welcomes back V60 and V90 estates

Industry News

New Black Edition versions of fully electric EC40 crossover and EX40 SUV, and mild-hybrid petrol XC40 Monochrome exterior styling with Onyx Black paint, 20-inch high-gloss black alloy wheels, and black grille and badging All-wheel-drive EC40 and EX40 Black Edition cars get new 442hp Twin Motor Performance powertrain Back by popular demand – the V60 and V90 estates Volvo Car UK is adding a stylish monochrome look to its model range this summer with the introduction of Black Edition versions of its fully electric EC40 crossover and EX40 SUV, and petrol XC40 SUV. The new season also heralds the return of the V60 and V90 estate cars to the line-up to meet renewed customer demand. The new Black EditionsThe Black Edition models stand out with all-black exterior styling, including Onyx Black paintwork, black high-gloss front grille, Volvo emblem and tailgate badging, plus 20-inch five-spoke high-gloss black alloy wheels. The package is available with two equipment grades, Plus and Ultra, with on-the-road prices from £40,720. There are two powertrain choices for the EC40 and EX40 Black Edition models: in addition to the rear-wheel-drive 252hp Single Motor Extended Range, there is a new all-wheel-drive Twin Motor Performance version. This delivers 442hp (up from 408hp in other all-wheel-drive EC40s and EX40s) and a remapped accelerator response. It also comes with a Performance drive mode to help the driver enjoy the extra power to the full. The XC40 Black Edition is offered with the B3 and B4 mild-hybrid petrol powertrains, offering 163hp and 197hp respectively. The Plus specification includes features such as a heated steering wheel and outer rear seats, front parking sensors, a powered driver’s seat with memory settings, an advanced air-purification system and Connect suede textile/microtech upholstery. The fully electric EC40 and EX40 also have an energy-efficient heat pump for the climate control system that helps maximise driving range. At the top of the range, the Ultra versions add a 360-degree surround-view parking camera system and active bending pixel LED headlights with adaptive shadow technology. A powered passenger seat and power-folding rear headrests are also provided, together with a tilt and slide panoramic sunroof (EX40 and XC40 models). The audio system is a 600W, 12-speaker Harman Kardon set-up with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound. Back by popular demand: the Volvo V60 and V90 estatesA rise in customer demand has prompted a welcome return for the V60 and V90 estate cars to Volvo’s UK range. The models were removed from the portfolio in the summer last year, in line with changes in customer preferences, but renewed interest in the bodystyle – a key element of Volvo Cars’ heritage – has brought them back into the line-up. The mid-size V60 is available in Plus and Ultra specifications with either the T6 or T8 petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrains, which combine a 145hp electric motor with a 253hp or 310hp petrol engine respectively, or the 197hp B4 mild-hybrid petrol powertrain. The larger V90 offers the same trim choices, exclusively with plug-in hybrid power – the T6 for the Plus version and the T8 for the Ultra. On-the road prices are from £43,370 for the V60 and £62,280 for the V90. All V60 and V90 plug-in hybrid variants enjoy a competitive benefit-in-kind tax rating of 8% for business/company car users. The new Black Editions and the V60 and V90 estates are on sale now, with first UK customer deliveries expected in Q3 2024. For more information and to use the online configurator, please go to www.volvocars.co.uk On-the-road pricingEC40Single Motor Extended Range Plus Black Edition RWD – £55,055Twin Motor Performance Plus Black Edition AWD – £59,555Single Motor Extended Range Ultra Black Edition RWD – £58,605Twin Motor Performance Ultra Black Edition AWD – £63,105 EX40Single Motor Extended Range Plus Black Edition RWD – £55,055Twin Motor Performance Plus Black Edition AWD – £59,555Single Motor Extended Range Ultra Black Edition RWD – £58,605Twin Motor Performance Ultra Black Edition AWD – £63,105 XC40B3 Plus Black Edition FWD – £40,720B4 Plus Black Edition FWD – £42,120B3 Ultra Black Edition FWD – £45,470B4 Ultra Black Edition FWD – £46,620 V60B4 Plus FWD – £43,370T6 Plug-in Hybrid Plus AWD – £50,935B4 Ultra FWD – £48,070T8 Plug-in Hybrid Ultra AWD – £57,635 V90T6 Plug-in Hybrid Plus AWD – £62,280T8 Plug-in Hybrid Ultra AWD – £70,780

Exclusive designs by Lanzante to debut at Goodwood

Industry News

As part of a packed Goodwood Festival of Speed weekend, British automotive engineering specialists Lanzante will, for a second year, debut a new collection of curated merchandise. Featuring several of the bespoke projects which are being showcased this year, the exclusive collection is a celebration of all things Lanzante in 2024. The collection celebrates four significant projects which have recently undergone the Lanzante treatment, and underline the diversity and craftsmanship of the team. Featuring Porsche, McLaren and one of the year’s most exciting collaborations – with global drift superstar ‘Mad Mike’ – the designs are strictly limited, and available across the Goodwood weekend from the Lanzante stand. Just 50 hand-numbered skatedecks of each design and a limited run of t-shirts will be offered. Built to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans victory by Lanzante, the ‘LM 25’ line-up consists of seven modern McLaren models – one for each of the F1 GTRs that started the fabled race. Each model, finished in Ueno Grey paint, features nods to the race-winning #59 entry, and create the ultimate Le Mans family tribute. Two of the most iconic motorsport liveries are showcased across two further designs. The feature car for this year’s Lanzante at Goodwood poster, Lanzante will pull the covers from the first example of the road converted Porsche 935 wearing a modern interpretation of the Martini sponsored cars of the 1970s and 80s. Alongside this, the orange and blue ‘Gulf’ scheme is celebrated across three McLaren GTR models, which Lanzante has developed over the past few years and will form part of the company’s impressive stand display. A road converted example of the F1 GTR-97 racer features alongside the Lanzante-developed P1 GTR-18 and Senna GTR. Completing the merchandise designs is a surefire Goodwood headliner. The ‘MadMac’ drift hypercar is the collaboration between Lanzante, Beverly Hills-based luxury dealership O’Gara Coach, and ‘Mad Mike’. Once the covers come off on the opening day of the event, he is set to wow the crowds with this latest project as it heads up the famous Hill course, sideways. The MadMac edition skatedecks and t-shirts are sure to be firm favourites across the weekend, and the New Zealander will be a guest at the Lanzante stand throughout the weekend with fan Q&As and autograph sessions. Additional Lanzante branded merchandise will also be available from the boutique store, which forms part of the architectural track-side stand. The Ganesh Signature collection includes t-shirts and caps, along with weekend bags, tote bags, keyrings and pin badges. Further images of the merchandise collection can be accessed from here. More details about Lanzante can be found via @lanzantelimited on Instagram.

Honda returns to Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 with the past; RA272, the present; eNy:1 and the tomorrow; Prelude Concept

Industry News

Prelude Concept to make its European public debut at 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed as Honda celebrates 25 years of hybrid performance. Honda celebrates 60 years since its first F1 participation, with the RA272 on display, in addition to Grand Prix Motorcycles on display, including the RC142. Complete Civic Type R lineup on Thursday Hill Climb: Experience all generations from EP3 to FL5, with 118 exclusive FL5 units available for sale now from retailers on a first-come, first-served basis. The all electric e:Ny1 will be located at both Electric Avenue and the Honda stand. Honda has announced its return to Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024, scheduled to take place from the 11th to 14th of July. This year’s festival marks a significant occasion for Honda as it showcases a variety of its iconic vehicles and heritage models. One of the key highlights will be the first European public appearance of the Honda Prelude Concept. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the Prelude Concept within the First Glance paddock, offering an exclusive look at this highly anticipated model. Tomoyuki Yamagami, Chief Engineer and Large Project Leader, Honda Motor, said: “The Prelude not only marks the latest chapter in our ever-evolving hybrid story, it is also the product of 25 years of pioneering hybrid research and development. Ensuring this model maintains its ‘sporty’ DNA by perfectly blending the efficiency and environmental advantages of electrified driving with an exhilarating experience behind the wheel – liberating users from their daily lives with increased driving pleasure.” Interested customers can sign up to receive more information about the Prelude on the Honda website here – https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/new-honda-prelude-concept In addition to the Prelude, Honda will also be displaying a selection of its racing heritage Formula 1 cars and Grand Prix motorcycles, including the legendary RA272 and RC142. These models highlight Honda’s rich history and achievements in motorsport, as Honda celebrates 60 years since their first F1 participation. Hikaru Miyagi will be driving the RA272 up the Hillclimb on Saturday, and Yuki Tsunoda on Sunday. The Honda RA272 is a significant piece of motorsport history, known for being the first Japanese car to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix. The RA272 debuted in the 1965 season and is celebrated for its innovative engineering and performance. Key features of the RA272 include a 1.5-liter V12 engine capable of 13,000 rpm, showcasing Honda’s engineering prowess. Coupled to the lightweight Chassis designed with a focus on weight reduction to enhance speed and agility on the track. Continuing the 60th anniversary celebrations, the RA272 will travel to California where it will participate in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. The Honda RC142 is another legendary machine, representing Honda’s excellence in motorcycle racing. The RC142 was part of Honda’s lineup during the 1950s, a period when the company established itself as a dominant force in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. Furthermore, Honda is bringing its celebrated Civic Type R lineup to the festival, showcasing all UK generations from the EP3 to the latest FL5 model on Thursday. This lineup demonstrates the evolution and advancements in performance, agility, and style that the Civic Type R has undergone over the years. To mark the Civic Type R’s Goodwood Festival of Speed celebratory Thursday run, Honda has released a limited batch of Civic Type R’s. The 118 cars are in Honda retailers now and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Type R enthusiasts can contact their local retailer here – Find your retailer | Retailer Search | Honda UK The Goodwood Electric Avenue will host a variety of vehicles dedicated to the advancement of zero emissions driving with the Honda e:Ny1 featuring within the exclusive 15 vehicle lineup. In addition, Honda will have a stand with cars, motorcycles, and power products on display. The brand will also be showcasing its performance partnership with England Rugby with lots of exciting activations for all the family. Back by popular demand, are the iconic Honda sunglasses. If you’re heading to the festival, find the Honda team in sunglasses and use the code ‘sunny side up’ to grab a pair. “We are thrilled to return to Goodwood Festival of Speed,” said Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK. “This event holds a very special place in the hearts of both automotive enthusiasts and Honda, who were one of the original partners in the first Festival of Speed back in 1993. We will have both the original and the Prelude Concept on display, which will be its first European public debut, and then at the other end of scale, we will also have our renowned hot hatch, the Civic Type R. We invite everyone to join us and witness the power, performance, and passion that defines Honda. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience whilst we celebrate 60 years since our first F1 race, 25 years of Hybrid Technology and so much more.” Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024 promises to be an exciting event for Honda fans and automotive enthusiasts alike, featuring a blend of historic and contemporary models that highlight Honda’s legacy and future in the automotive world.

KGM Motors UK dealership Bulldog Twyford to take on the big Jurassic Coast hike for Cancer Research UK

Industry News

KGM Motors UK, formerly SsangYong, is delighted to announce that Caroline O’Sullivan, Brand Manager of KGM dealer partner Bulldog Twyford, Reading, will be participating in the Jurassic Coast full marathon for Cancer Research UK on 13th July 2024. Caroline’s journey will span 25.9 miles, starting from Corfe Castle and following the picturesque Hardy Way before traversing several miles of the stunning Dorset Coast. This challenging hike will involve a climb totalling 2,762 feet around England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Participating in the event for the first time, Cancer Research UK is a cause very close to Caroline’s heart. “My mum passed away from cancer at the age of 59 in 2001, and at the time, there was no MRI scanner available,” said Caroline. “Since then, treatments have made incredible advancements. My sister-in-law, who has terminal cancer, is still with us thanks to ongoing research, and I am five years in remission from breast cancer, all because of this amazing charity. Sadly, I have lost three very close friends to cancer in the past year, which is why raising money for this cause is so important to me.” Caroline will be taking on the hike with her friend Vanessa, and the pair have been preparing with walks from Windsor to Virginia Water through Windsor Great Park, covering distances up to 18 miles. Growing up in Swanage, where the event takes place, and with her dad still living in the area, Caroline has had the opportunity to train on half of the route several times. Reflecting on her past fundraising activities, Caroline shared, “Previously, I completed the Thames Path for Macmillan in 2022 and have participated in the Race for Life over the past few years. This year, I chose the Jurassic Coast hike not only because my dad lives in the area and I grew up in Swanage, but also because I wanted a more demanding challenge compared to the flat terrain of the Thames Path. Although I love walking and enjoying the beautiful scenery, I know this hike will truly push my limits, but I am ready to tackle this new challenge!” Grateful for the support from her colleagues at Bulldog Twyford and KGM UK, Caroline acknowledged: “I am so appreciative for the support I have had from my sponsors, especially KGM, who have generously contributed £250. And thanks to everyone’s kindness, I have already raised over £1200, surpassing my original goal of £1000 and exceeding the amount I have raised previously. There’s no backing out now!” To learn more about Caroline’s Jurassic Coast fundraiser for Cancer Research UK please visit: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/get-involved/find-an-event/big-hike/big-hike-jurassic-coast#accordion_20220103 If you wish to make a donation, please visit: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/carolinas-big-hike

Subaru (UK) Ltd records 30% sales growth so far in 2024

Industry News

Subaru (UK) Ltd sales up 30.2% in the first half of 2024 All-electric Subaru Solterra contributing 27% of sales Subaru leading UK EV sales mix reports year-to-date 8th July 2024 – During the first half of 2024, Subaru (UK) Ltd recorded a 30.2 % increase in vehicle sales over the same period in 2023, ending June with 1,426 new vehicle sales so far in 2024. Subaru’s sales performance growth means the brand has outperformed the UK automotive industry, which ended June 6.01% up over the first half of 2023, with 1,006,763 vehicles registered, according to the latest data reporting from the SMMT. This performance also places Subaru among the top ten fastest-growing automotive brands in the UK. The all-electric Subaru Solterra contributed a sales mix of 27%, the highest mix attained by the model since its launch. Compared to other manufacturers that offer Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles alongside EVs in their UK model range, this performance positions the brand with the highest mix of EV sales at the half-year stage. The Subaru Outback secured 29% of all Subaru sales during this period and is the brand’s best-selling model so far in 2024, marginally ahead of the Solterra, with Forester attaining a 23% mix of sales. The range of Subaru SUVs are tough, practical, and confidence-inspiring vehicles, built to handle life in town, the countryside and off the beaten track. Offering outstanding capability when the going gets tough, Subaru’s SUVs offer up to 220mm of ground clearance and permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive along with the brand’s renowned X-MODE off-road system fitted as standard, ensuring maximum grip and traction, and exceptional road holding, whatever the weather or terrain conditions. — ENDS — Note to Editors:For further Subaru news and images, visit www.subarumedia.co.uk PR contact: Brian Wheeler PR Manager07789 663848 bwheeler@subaru.co.ukPR@subaru.co.uk About SubaruEvery Subaru vehicle is built with people in mind. It is why all the models in the range offer the very best protection, with a host of advanced safety features fitted as standard. Subaru is known for its outstanding capabilities – both on and off-road, whatever the conditions, thanks to innovative technology, permanent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and ever-dependable, rugged reliability. Consisting of four models, the Subaru range includes the Forester e-BOXER, Outback, Crosstrek, and the all-electric Solterra, each embodying safety, capability, and reliability at their core. Since 1954, Subaru has been making cars for everyday life and every challenge. Whether it’s a hiking holiday or the school run – capability, safety, and reliability are engineered into every Subaru, earning a reputation for engineering excellence.

Long-distance Volkswagen ID.7 Pro S models now on sale in the UK

Industry News

ID.7 Pro S Match fastback and Tourer now available to order 86 kWh battery can be charged at up to 200 kW DC ID.7 Pro S Match capable of up to 437 miles of range Milton Keynes – Long-distance electric-only journeys are becoming easier with the introduction of the Volkswagen ID.7 Pro S Match and ID.7 Tourer Pro S Match. The addition of ‘Pro S’ to existing Volkswagen ID.7 models introduces a bigger battery and faster charging. The new ID.7 Pro S Match models have an 86 kWh battery, compared with the 77 kWh battery in the ID.7 Match versions. The result is a WLTP pure electric range of 437 miles for the fastback and 425 miles for the Tourer. The Pro S Match models can also be charged at up to 200 kW DC, meaning a top-up from 10 to 80 per cent of battery capacity can take as little as 26 minutes. Both new models have all the same levels of luxury and equipment that existing ID.7 drivers enjoy, including a head-up display; Volkswagen’s latest MIB4 infotainment software with 15-inch screen; sophisticated IQ.LIGHT Matrix headlights; three-zone air conditioning with smart vents; comfortable ergoActive heated front seats with massage functions; and privacy glass in the rear. They also offer the same cavernous boot space, with up to 1,586 and 1,714 litres of storage respectively in the fastback and Tourer (loaded to roofline with the rear seats down). The ID.7 Pro S Match and ID.7 Tourer Pro S Match can be ordered now from Volkswagen Retailers, priced £55,450 and £56,140 (on-the-road recommended retail price inc. VAT). (ends) Press contactVolkswagen (UK) Press TeamMike Orford 07467 442062Rob Punshon 07775 311931Grant McPherson 07774 684222Trevor Rickwood 07407 826649Nicki Divey 07802 248310 Volkswagen Press and PRVolkswagen (UK)Yeomans DriveBlakelandsMilton KeynesMK14 5AN www.vwpress.co.ukTwitter: @VWUKPress VW24040 TR/rp/mo

Honda marks 25 years of pioneering hybrid success with European debut of Prelude Concept as it announces return of nameplate to Europe

Industry News

Prelude Concept to make its European public debut at 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed as Honda celebrates 25 years of hybrid performance Production model of iconic nameplate will deliver “joy of driving” via perfect balance of driving dynamics and fuel efficiency Hybrid electric Prelude will join Honda’s fully electrified mainstream line-up for Europe Honda has marked 25 years of hybrid performance with the European debut of the Prelude Concept and confirmation that the production model will return to the region ahead of its first public appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed from 11-14 July. Following the concept model’s reveal at the Japan Mobility Show last year, Prelude is set to deliver the perfect balance of exhilarating driving pleasure and outstanding efficiency – embodying Honda’s long-term commitment to electrification in a stylish and dynamic package. The original Prelude made its European debut 45 years ago and served as a thrilling, high-performance showcase of Honda’s cutting-edge technology for five generations until 2001. The new model promises to be a fitting return for the renowned nameplate, as it delivers a compelling blend of style and sophistication alongside a hybrid powertrain. The name “Prelude” refers to an introductory piece of music, and appropriately positions the car as a forerunner to future models that embody Honda’s commitment to sports performance – an example of Honda bringing the “joy of driving” to customers across Europe. Tomoyuki Yamagami, Chief Engineer and Large Project Leader, Honda Motor, said: “The new Prelude not only marks the latest chapter in our ever evolving hybrid story, it is also the product of 25 years of pioneering hybrid research and development. Ensuring this model maintains its ‘sporty’ DNA by perfectly blending the efficiency and environmental advantages of electrified driving with an exhilarating experience behind the wheel – liberating users from their daily lives with increased driving pleasure.” “In addition, the Prelude demonstrates the continued importance of hybrid powertrains as part of Honda’s automobile electrification strategy – a key step towards our commitment for 100% of new vehicle sales to be battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell by 2040.” 25-Years of Hybrid PerformanceThis year sees Honda celebrate a quarter of a century of pioneering hybrid expertise, following the arrival of the revolutionary Insight coupe as Europe’s first mass-produced hybrid model back in 1999. Ever since, the brand has pioneered the development of petrol-electric powertrain technology, with a range of models that have helped drivers make the smoothest, most convenient, and cost-effective switch to an electrified future. Following the arrival of the Insight, Honda launched the Civic IMA in 2003, which paired a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a 1.3-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and 20-horsepower electric motor to offer increased fuel efficiency. Seven-years later, the CR-Z was introduced, combining Honda’s unique IMA parallel hybrid system with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and manual transmission to offer an ideal balance between engaging driving dynamics and fuel economy. In 2011, Jazz Hybrid continued to offer the practicality for which it was known – including “Magic Seats” and 300-litres of boot space – thanks to the compact nature of the Honda IMA hybrid system. Five years later and the arrival of the NSX saw the introduction of the most-technologically-advanced all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain of the time to the supercar segment. Today, Honda’s mainstream automobile range is fully electrified, with Jazz, Civic, HR-V, ZR-V and CR-V all available with e:HEV powertrains as standard. Featuring advanced powertrains that shift seamlessly between EV, hybrid and engine drive with no input from the driver, they all combine exceptional ease-of-use with a rewarding driving experience, alongside highly competitive efficiency and emissions.

Bentley celebrates Pride in the North West with uniquely wrapped car

Industry News

One-of-a-kind Continental GTC designed specifically to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and diversity in all its forms Eye-catching convertible launches in Bentley’s hometown, at Crewe Pride, 6 July Fourth dedicated Pride Car uniquely created by Designer Rich Morris, featuring Progress flag colours Design continues the story of the Unifying Spur, focusing on acceptance and celebrating our differences Bentley will be attending Crewe, Nantwich and Manchester Pride events and community outreach activities, as part of the year-round support for the LGBTQ+ community LGBTQ+ colleagues, their partners and allies linked to Bentley network taking part in colourful parades (Crewe, 5 July 2024) Bentley Motors has today reconfirmed its year-round support for the LGBTQ+ community with the fourth dedicated Pride Car, uniquely wrapped for the North West Pride parades in the UK. Specially created by Designer Rich Morris, the brightly coloured Continental GTC represents love, new life, and acceptance. The eye-catching convertible features colour and linework inspired by the original Unifying Spur. A chaotic single black line covers the car with faces emerging from the scribble. This symbolises the negative emotions that a person can go through when trying to come to terms with who they are, whether that is their gender or sexuality. This is covered by bright splashes of paint from the progressive Pride flag colour pallet which covers the car, inspired by Holi, the Hindu festival of colour, which celebrates spring, love, and new life. The colours cover the faces to show how make up and styling can be used to help an individual become the person they want to be. This promotes a world where LGBTQ+ people are free to live and love without prejudice, in a culture that is universally celebrated. Colleagues, along with their partners and allies linked to the colleague-led Bentley network will take part in the Crewe, Nantwich, and Manchester Pride parades, helping to reinforce the message that the company has a culture where all employees feel comfortable bringing their true, authentic selves to the workplace.The parades themselves celebrate the progress made whilst continuing to raise awareness, bring hope to those in need and to inspire others to challenge discrimination. Designer Rich Morris, who created the art work explained:“It has been an honour to work on this project for Bentley, following the success of my Unifying Spur design in 2021. This design symbolises the darkness and uncertainty one may experience during self-discovery. It employs colours and linework inspired by both the Unifying Spur and the Hindu festival of Holi, the festival of colour, which celebrates spring, love, and new life. This year’s car is about individuals embracing and being their true, authentic selves.” Wayne Bruce, Chief Communications and DEI Officer at Bentley Motors, added:“Our fourth dedicated Pride Car holds a special place in our DEI journey, which began in 2020 with the first car that bravely initiated the conversation. This initial step served as a catalyst, inspiring the creation of BeProud and sparking our ongoing DEI efforts. This latest Pride Car symbolises far more than just Pride — it represents our commitment to acceptance, intersectionality, and belonging and year around support. “This year’s Pride Car is a celebration of these values, merging the inclusive symbolism of the Progress Flag with the vibrant, joyful spirit of Holi. It embodies our dedication to diversity and unity, striving to cultivate a culture where everyone feels they belong. This car stands as a powerful testament to our mission, encapsulating what #BelongingAtBentley truly means.”