Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric ranked number one in the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards

Industry News

Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric is number one in the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards, winning the ‘2024 EcoCar Electrified Car of the Year’ award and also the ‘Best Medium SUV’ category Striking crossover beat all other electrified vehicles to the top award after impressing with its usability, connectivity, sustainable materials and spacious, contemporary interior Renault Clio E-Tech full hybrid completed a hat trick of awards for Renault, winning the ‘Best Small Hybrid Car’ category Scenic E-Tech 100% electric available in Comfort Range or Long Range specification with a range of up to 379 miles (WLTP), starting from £37,495 OTR Clio E-Tech full hybrid returns up to 67.3mpg (WLTP) and is priced from £21,495 OTR The Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric has topped the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards, beating every other currently available electric car, hybrid and plug-in hybrid to the title of ‘2024 EcoCar Electrified Car of the Year’. As well as taking the number one position in the top 50 electrified cars listing to win the Awards’ most prestigious accolade, the distinctive, pure-electric crossover also won the ‘Best Medium SUV’ category. Ian Robertson, Editor and Publisher of Diesel&EcoCar, which organises the annual awards, explained why the magazine deemed the Scenic E-Tech 100% electric to be the best electrified new car on the market: “Renault has reinvented its Scenic for 2024 and what a transformation it is. Instead of an MPV, the Scenic is now a stylish family five-seater that’s gently morphed into an SUV with very contemporary looks. Not only that, but it is also all change under the skin with a wholesome move to a pure electric E-Tech powertrain that offers an impressive range of up to 379 miles. “The modern features don’t end when you hop inside, because the Scenic boasts one of the best interiors we’ve ever seen in a Renault model. The use of sustainable fabric materials around the cabin adds to the plush ambience and there’s oodles of space. We also found the Android-based operating system responsive and easy to use, with lots of familiar smartphone-style apps that make it a joy to operate.” Guillaume Sicard, Managing Director Renault UK, said: “This latest award for the Scenic E-Tech 100% electric is a superb illustration of the excellent usability and unrivalled package that it offers modern families, not only surpassing all other pure electric vehicles currently on sale, but also those that have a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain. As the judges have recognised, it is the best new electrified car available today.” The Scenic E-Tech 100% electric was not the only Renault to win at the awards, the Renault Clio E-Tech full hybrid being named the ‘Best Hybrid Small Car’. The judges were also hugely impressed by the electrified Clio, Ian Robertson adding: “The Clio is our favourite small hybrid and supermini, and compared to the opposition, it’s not even a close fight. The French model looks more handsome than ever inside and out, it’s packed with technology and it comes with a full hybrid powertrain that puts the hardware in some larger cars to shame. But perhaps most remarkable of all, you can have one on your driveway for £21,495. Do so and you’ll get yourself a car that will plant a smile across your face and will urge you to take the back route home. And that’s while promising fuel economy of up to 65.7mpg on the combined cycle.” Designed to combine all that a family needs to travel freely and safely with a focus on sustainability, the Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric features a compact motor (with 125kW/170hp or 160kW/220hp) plus a 60kW or 87kWh battery pack for a range of up to 379 miles. The 87kWh version is available with a choice of three trim levels – techno, esprit Alpine and iconic – while the 60kWh Comfort Range model comes exclusively in techno trim. The range starts from £37,495 OTR. The Renault Clio E-Tech full hybrid blends bold, fresh styling and a cutting-edge digital experience with an innovative hybrid powertrain. Producing 145hp, the advanced drivetrain consists of two electric motors (36kW motor plus 18kW HVSG) and an efficient 1.6-litre petrol engine. It can use the electric motor for up to 80% of the time in city driving, emits as little as 96g/km CO2, and returns as much as 67.3mpg combined (WLTP). It is available in three trim levels – evolution, techno and esprit Alpine – and starts from £21,495 OTR. For more information on the Renault Scenic E-Tech electric and Renault Clio E-Tech full hybrid, visit: https://www.renault.co.uk/electric-vehicles/scenic.html and https://www.renault.co.uk/hybrid-cars/clio.html

Kia launches new Q3 offers

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Q3 2024 offers begin Monday, 1 July and end Monday, 30 September 2024 2.9 per cent APR on finance options for EV6, Niro EV and Soul EV 4.9 per cent APR available on the fully electric Kia EV9 7.9 per cent APR across the non-EV Kia model line-up Upgrade to EV with a £500 saving for existing finance customers 1 Year Free Kia Charge Plus subscription when buying a new fully electric Kia 2 Years Free servicing on Sportage orders placed between 1 July and 31 August Kia’s latest offers have launched today, bringing more attractive ways to get behind one of the latest and greatest models. rates on select finance options starting from 2.9 per cent APR for Kia’s fully electric models. Offers run from 1 July until 30 September and are available from across the Kia UK dealer network and online [1]. EV6 – 2.9 per cent APRAll grades of the fully electric Kia EV6 are available with a 2.9 per cent APR, no minimum customer deposit, and a generous £2,000 Finance Deposit Contribution (FDC) [2]. This includes all grades, from ‘Air’ to the top-of-the-range ‘GT-Line S’, with EV6 pricing starting from £45,275 on-the-road (OTR). Niro EV and Soul EV – 2.9 per cent APRAll grades of the Niro EV are available with 2.9 per cent APR, no minimum customer deposit, and an enhanced £1,500 FDC [2]. Similarly, the Soul EV is available with the same APR on select finance options with no minimum customer deposit required, and a generous £1,500 FDC [2]. EV9 – 4.9 per cent APRThe 2024 ‘World Car of the Year’ and ‘UK Car of the Year’ is available with 4.9 per cent APR on finance with no minimum customer deposit [3]. The multi award-winning EV9 is available in three distinctive grades, offering seating for up to seven people. 7.9 per cent APR on all non-EV Kia modelsAll Kia models – including HEV and PHEV but excluding fully electric models – are available with 7.9 per cent APR and no minimum deposit [4]. Kia EV Finance Upgrade [5]Already have a Kia, but want to go electric? Existing Kia Finance customers of any Kia model can save £500 with the ‘Kia EV Finance Upgrade’ when switching to one of Kia’s award-winning fully electric cars. This is a great saving to help customers get behind the wheel of an EV, including the fully electric 7-seater EV9 – which was recently named 2024 ‘World Car of the Year’ and ‘UK Car of the Year’. 1 Year Free Kia Charge PlusKia’s fully electric models, the EV6, EV9, Niro EV and Soul EV each benefit from a 1 Year Free Kia Charge Plus subscription [1]. Voucher codes will be provided directly to new customers of these fully electric models following the registration of their vehicle. Exclusive to Kia customers, Kia Charge is designed to simplify public EV charging and offers seamless access to more than 700,000 connectors across the UK and Europe. Kia Charge Plus provides a 15 per cent discount versus the standard Kia Charge Easy tariff across most networks, excluding bp pulse, Pod Point and Ionity. Kia Charge Plus also waives the session fee, making electric motoring even more attractive. Free servicing on SportageOne of the UK’s most popular cars, the Kia Sportage offers a choice of efficient powertrains including petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, and with a choice of two- or all-wheel drive. Making ownership even easier for customers, all Sportage orders placed between 1 July and 31 August will benefit from 2 Years Free Servicing [1]. Enhanced Finance Deposit ContributionsKia’s generous FDCs ensure the latest offers are made even more appealing for both new and returning customers. Savings include: £2,000 off the EV6 or XCeed, £1,500 off a Sportage (petrol or HEV), Niro EV, Niro HEV, or Soul EV; £1,250 off a Stonic, Ceed, Ceed Sportswagon or ProCeed; £500 off a Niro PHEV, Sportage PHEV, new Picanto, or new Sorento.

Isuzu UK launches “The Grand Trade In” with unbeatable offer on new D-Max

Industry News

Isuzu UK’s “The Grand Trade In” offers an extra £1,000 for part exchanging an older vehicle when purchasing a new Isuzu D-Max. Customers can trade in any make or model, provided the vehicle is under seven years old. Buyers are encouraged to visit their local Isuzu dealer or the Isuzu UK website for full details and to take advantage of this limited-time offer. Isuzu UK is excited to announce its latest promotion, “The Grand Trade In,” as a follow-up to its highly successful “Trade In, Trade Up” campaign from earlier this year. Starting today (1st of July), customers will receive an additional £1,000 for part exchanging their older vehicle when purchasing a brand-new Isuzu D-Max. This exceptional offer is available until 30th of September, or while stocks last. In “The Grand Trade In” promotion, customers can trade in any model from any make, provided the part exchange vehicle is under seven years old. This offer is exclusively available for retail purchases and cannot be combined with any other offer. Terms and conditions apply, and for full details, customers are encouraged to contact their local Isuzu dealer or visit www.isuzu.co.uk/grand-trade-in. Neil Scott, Isuzu UK National Sales Manager, shared his enthusiasm for the campaign, stating: “At Isuzu UK, we’re raising the stakes with ‘The Grand Trade In.’ It’s a golden opportunity for customers to drive away in a brand-new Isuzu D-Max with an extra £1,000 in their pockets. This deal is too good to miss! Our dealers are ready and waiting to help customers make the most of this limited-time offer.” ABOUT ISUZUFrom the day we were founded in 1916 in Japan, and when we started Isuzu UK in 1987 to import and distribute our legendary Trooper model, we have always been about what our customers need and want. Today, equipped with a punchy turbo diesel engine, the Isuzu D-Max pick-up is leading the charge, delivering 164PS and 360Nm of torque. Each new model comes with a 125,000 mile/5-year warranty and 5 years UK and European roadside assistance.Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to upgrade to the robust and reliable Isuzu D-Max. Visit your nearest Isuzu dealership today and take advantage of “The Grand Trade In.” With towing capabilities of 3.5 tonnes, a maximum payload of 1,205kg and a 4×4 drive, the Isuzu D-Max works for customers day and night achieving up to 39.4mpg, meeting Euro 6D emissions standards. Isuzu are the pick-up professionals. We are best placed to discuss pick-ups with professionals, aiming to meet our customers every individual need. At Isuzu, we only make commercial vehicles. We focus on making our pick-ups tough, strong, and built to go the distance. PR CONTACTSFilip CzajkowskiPR Manager07407 6295210121 730 8071fczajkowski@isuzu.co.uk Thomas DavisPR & Content Executive07391 053044tdavis@isuzu.co.uk Note to EditorsFor further Isuzu D-Max news, images, and press information, please visit www.isuzumedia.co.uk.To keep up with the latest news from the brand, follow us on Twitter @IsuzuUKPR.For more information on the Isuzu range visit www.isuzu.co.uk or follow us on social media.

MG to unveil new HS SUV

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Global debut confirmed for Goodwood Festival of Speed 11 July, 2024 Advanced glimpse of contemporary, sophisticated design Enhanced space and exceptional electric range for PHEV MG has released today an exclusive preview of the all-new HS SUV ahead of the car’s global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday, 11 July. Replacing the current model which has propelled MG global sales to new heights, the all-new MG HS will offer a contemporary, sophisticated design and an interior with enhanced space and an array of new, driver-focussed technology. Two powertrain choices – petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – will be available to order from launch with the Plug in Hybrid variant promising to offer an unmatched all-electric range for the class. To learn more about MG’s electric vehicle lineup or to find your nearest dealer, visit www.mg.co.uk.

Maserati GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello: the first 100% electric luxury convertible, an exclusive car inspired by tradition, innovation and craftsmanship made in Italy

Industry News

From the Bespoke experience of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme, the House of the Trident has created a unique model in collaboration with Marchesi Antinori,to celebrate Tignanello’s 50th anniversary. Modena, 1 July 2024 – To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tignanello, one of the most influential red wines that was ahead of its times, Maserati crafted a customised Fuoriserie version of its latest creation, GranCabrio Folgore, the most futuristic expression of the current 100% electric production from the Modena-based brand. The bespoke, which was exclusively created for Marchesi Antinori, will be auctioned, on July 14, in California at Festival Napa Valley’s Arts for All Gala—one of the leading arts charity events in the US. For the 110th anniversary of the Trident, Maserati comes together with Marchesi Antinori, which boasts a family wine history of over 600 years, handed down for 26 generations, and is an elevated, distinctive symbol of Italy. With its solid identity, innovative intuition and the strong value of the centuries-old tradition that has made the Italian winery one of the best companies in the world, the production of Marchesi Antinori and Tignanello reflect the feeling and passion that have always characterised the spirit of Maserati, a lively protagonist and pioneer in the history of motoring. It has always been driven by the desire to anticipate and become a sign of the times. The inspiration for this car arises from the vineyard, a metaphor for roots and territory. Both houses’ local areas add much value to their end products: from the cellar, the magical place where wine is made, and from the specific Tignanello label, unchanged for half a century and still highly recognisable, just like the Trident’s most iconic creations.To craft a car that epitomises the characteristics and values of Marchesi Antinori and Tignanello, Maserati has researched the uniqueness that surrounds the history of this wine and it has paid homage to the Florentine family of winemakers through the colours, shades, innovative materials and refined artisan details that make GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello an ode in motion to the prestigious Tignanello vineyard and to the 50 years of this wine. The exteriors of GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello translate into a customisation of the body colour, created ad hoc: the Terra di Tignanello paint is a chestnut colour inspired by the vineyard’s soil, warmed by a coppery burgundy reminiscent of the central red shades of Tignanello’s characteristic barriques. It has a rich, metallic tint; a prestigious colour inspired by the estate and the atmosphere of the winery. The rims and callipers come in matte and gloss black respectively, whereas the emblems are coloured copper, with the Maserati logo in glossy copper on a gloss background. The soft top fabric is also black. But the most romantic details lie in the interiors, ‘revealing’ the hallmarks of Tignanello and celebrating the history of both houses, combining tradition, innovation and craftsmanship. The seats feature leather embellished with a multi-material silver and burgundy ribbed weave, made of Vegea, an innovative spreadable fabric derived from the vineyards. It recalls the pattern of the rows of vines on the Tignanello hill, marked out by the Albarese rocks in their midst. The fabric looks and feels like leather, and it is used for the first time in a Maserati car. Everything else is real material: dark briar wood with lasering – selected to recall the printing burned into the oak barrels – embellishes the panels, featuring textual details on the creation of Tignanello. On the headrest, elegant embroidery combines the Maserati Trident with one of Tignanello’s hallmarks: the sun, long a distinctive feature on the bottle label. The same symbol is lasered on the central tunnel, together with the dates 1971-2021: these refer to the first and current vintage of Tignanello, 50 years since this wine was released on the market. Klaus Busse, Maserati Head of Design: “This collaboration with Marchesi Antinori gives us the opportunity to epitomise the essence of Bespoke production, the flagship of our Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme. It is designed to create ad-hoc experiences for Trident customers, by producing tailor-made cars that can make the driving experience even more sublime and distinctive, the way only an outstanding wine can at the table. Telling a story of Italian excellence is a source of pride for us and serves as constant stimulus for our work, which with Bespoke production aspires to create something absolutely dedicated and inimitable”. Piero Antinori: “A never-ending challenge, the obsession to improve and constantly question ourselves, to find higher and higher quality margins: these are the cornerstones of the collaboration with Maserati, a brand acknowledged worldwide as a symbol of Made in Italy quality.A one-of-a-kind model, inspired by Tignanello for its 50th anniversary, a car with a great identity and recognisability, just like our wine. An initiative that makes our family particularly proud: this special GranCabrio Folgore will be auctioned at Festival Napa Valley’s 2024 Arts for All Gala, with the proceeds to be donated to charity”. GranCabrio Folgore is Maserati’s latest addition, as the first 100% electric convertible in the luxury segment and the fastest on the market. Performance, comfort, style and elegance give this car equipped with a battery system based on 800V technology – developed with cutting-edge technical solutions based on Formula E – the ability to offer outstanding performance combined with the Trident’s typical comfort and elegance.Maserati GranCabrio provides four true seats, made possible by the soft top. It also comes with a series of innovative systems and details, such as the neck warmer to travel with the top down even when the temperature drops, and the wind stopper to reduce turbulence inside the passenger compartment. Tignanello was the first Sangiovese to be aged in barriques, the first contemporary red wine blended with untraditional grape varieties (specifically Cabernet) and one of the first red wines from Chianti Classico that did not use white grapes. Tignanello is a milestone, a wine that fully represents the spirit of the Antinori family’s motto, “Te Duce Proficio”, which means “Following your…

New Aston Martin GT3 secures historic victory in the Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa

Industry News

New Aston Martin Vantage GT3 records maiden 24-hour victory in Belgium Comtoyou Racing and Aston Martin celebrate new relationship with famous victory for Mattia Drudi, Nicki Thiim and Marco Sørensen First overall win for Aston Martin in the 24 Hours of Spa since 1948 Aston Martin becomes first British manufacturer to claim victory in 40 years First 24 Hours of Spa victory for British ultra-luxury sportscar brand in the modern GT-only era of the event Sunday, 30 June, 2024, Spa-Francorchamps: Aston Martin has recorded a glorious overall victory in the Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa – the world’s most prestigious all-GT3 24 hour race which took place at Spa-Francorchamps, in Belgium, over 29-30 June weekend. The win, claimed by Aston Martin partner team Comtoyou Racing, and works drivers Mattia Drudi (ITA), Marco Sørensen (DEN) and Nicki Thiim (DEN), was the first for the British ultra-luxury sportscar brand since 1948. The result also marked a maiden 24-hour triumph for the new Aston Martin Vantage GT3 and was the first time the famous Wings had beaten its major competition in the Belgian endurance classic since it became an-all GT event in 2001. For double FIA GT World Endurance champion Thiim and triple world champion Sørensen, affectionally known within the sport as the ‘Dane Train’, victory represents the first time the duo have won a 24-hour race overall as team-mates in the same car, in spite of them having three 24 Hours of Le Mans class wins between them. Sørensen said: “This is a very special moment. To win already in the first year with the new Vantage GT3 is an amazing achievement. It’s a fantastic car, and we’ve had a good feeling about it all year. But to win an event like this takes more than good driving and good luck, and the team, and everyone back at Aston Martin Racing, as well as my team-mates deserve credit for a victory I will remember forever.” Thiim added: “It’s difficult to put into words what this means to me, and to Aston Martin. We have been trying to win this race for a long time, and to do it in this way is an incredible feeling. I think everyone knows how I feel about Aston Martin. We have had so many special memories together, and this win is up there with the best of them for me.” For Drudi, a Fanatec GT World Europe champion, it was an opportunity to shine on one of endurance racing’s biggest stages, and that he did, putting the #007 car in contention every time he stepped in the cockpit – including during the opening hours of the race, where he’d worked the team into a leading position before the first of multiple Safety Car Periods. A complicated night of racing, where torrential thunderstorms and multiple incidents neutralised the event for several hours, Comtoyou Racing remained composed and kept the car in touch with the leading fight, even as pitstops during the Safety Car periods forced 20-car swings in the race positions on occasion. Each time, the team rebounded and raced back to the front so that as morning came and the track dried out, it found itself in a straight fight for victory with a rival Ferrari, two BMWs and the other Pro class #34 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 of partner team Walkenhorst Motorsport, driven by Henrique Chaves (POR), Ross Gunn (GBR) and David Pittard (GBR). In the final hour of the race the #7 Comtoyou Racing Aston Martin trailed the Ferrari by 10s, when its rival pitted and was held-up in the pitlane entry by a stranded car. This turn of events prevented Ferrari with the chance to race for the win and denied the fans a grandstand finish as Drudi raced to the flag unopposed. “To win with Nicki and Marco has been a fantastic experience,” said Drudi. “This is such a tough race, but I would say we had the perfect run, with no problems and a very good execution. I am very proud of everyone in the team.” Gunn brought the #34 Walkenhorst Vantage GT3 home fourth following a strong run for the team that saw it lead on several occasions. Indeed Walkenhorst Motorsport, a previous winner of the event, came close to clinching the Silver Cup class victory in the #35 Vantage GT3 driven by 2022 AMR Driver Academy graduate Romain Leroux (FRA) and 2024 candidates Lorcan Hanafin (GBR) and Maxime Robin (FRA). Unfortunately, the car was the innocent victim of an accident, following a Safety Car period on Sunday morning, while fighting for the lead of the class. Of Comtoyou Racing’s four-car entry, which completed a record seven-car assault on the race by Aston Martin, the #007 was often the fastest car in the race, but the team’s #21 Silver Cup car driven by Charles Clark (GBR), Sam Dejonghe (BEL), Matisse Lismont (BEL) and Xavier Maassen finished sixth, having led the class earlier in the race. The new Vantage GT3, closely derived from the new Vantage road car unveiled earlier this year at Silverstone, and built around Aston Martin’s proven bonded aluminium chassis and powered by its fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, is in a rich vein of form. In the month of June alone it has clinched victories in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the SUPER GT Series, the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie and Road to Le Mans event. Now Aston Martin can add one of the most famous wins in its racing history to that tally. Adam Carter, Head of Endurance Motorsport, said: “We offer our sincere congratulations and thanks to our partners Comtoyou Racing on this fantastic victory for the new Aston Martin Vantage GT3. We have known since the start of the season what the car is capable of, and this performance at Spa was through a combination of technical excellence, endurance, fortitude and execution. I’d also like to congratulate Walkenhorst Motorsport on a hard-fought performance which was unfortunate not to yield a podium finish. The hard work…

MAHLE Powertrain expands dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capabilities at Northampton

Industry News

Facility to support light and heavy-duty hydrogen powertrain testing Dual tube-trailer capacity with rapid switch-over enables extended testing Upgraded engine dyno specifications will support up to 4,000Nm and 900kW MAHLE Powertrain, the specialist engineering subsidiary of the MAHLE Group, is expanding its Northampton facility to include a dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capability. The capacity to hold two tube-trailers on-site with rapid switch-over functionality between them will ensure a near-continuous supply of hydrogen. In addition, upgraded engine dynamometers with a 900kW, 4,000Nm nominal capacity mean the center will be ideally placed to support the growing demand for hydrogen powertrain development as well as testing of both light and heavy-duty applications. “Off-highway, heavy-duty and marine sectors are increasingly looking to hydrogen combustion engines as a way of decarbonizing their emissions in areas where electrification isn’t suitable,” said Simon Reader, Director – Global Engineering Services, MAHLE Powertrain. “This expansion is in response to strong demand from our customers for this type of work. It equips our test cells with a dedicated hydrogen supply to create a facility that can perform rigorous testing on even the most heavy-duty engines and their increased weight and torque characteristics.” The facility is already being used in the development of hydrogen fuel cell systems, hydrogen combustion engines and testing of hydrogen fuelled vehicles. It will also soon begin work on the development of an H2-ICE concept that converts existing heavy-duty diesel engines to hydrogen combustion – thereby negating the need for wholesale replacement and capitalizing on existing infrastructure to accelerate the transition towards net-zero mobility. The facility’s supply side meticulously follows the BCGA (British Compressed Gases Association) guidance on the storage and handling of hydrogen. In addition, the individual test cells each feature a unique MAHLE Powertrain-designed system for the monitoring and safe handling of any potential gas escape. The company also has knowledge and experience in the development of engines adapted to run on renewable alcohol fuels, such as methanol. Note for journalists: you will find images connected with this press release at: https://newsroom.mahle.com/press/en/. Contacts in MAHLE Corporate Communications: Kerstin Cynthia LauHead of Media RelationsPhone: +49 711 501-13185E-mail: kerstin.cynthia.lau@mahle.com Agency contactRichard DurbinPhone: +44 7525 718205E-mail: richard.durbin@loopagency.co.uk About MAHLEMAHLE is a leading international development partner and supplier to the automotive industry with customers in both passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors. Founded in 1920, the technology group is working on the climate-neutral mobility of tomorrow, with a focus on the strategic areas of electrification and thermal management as well as further technology fields to reduce CO2 emissions, such as fuel cells or highly efficient combustion engines that also run on hydrogen or synthetic fuels. Today, one in every two vehicles globally is equipped with MAHLE components. MAHLE generated sales just under EUR 13 billion in 2023. The company is represented with approx. 72,500 employees at 148 production locations and 11 major research and development centers in 29 countries. (as of 31.12.2023) #WeShapeFutureMobility About MAHLE PowertrainMAHLE Powertrain is a specialist in providing engineering services for the design, development and integration of advanced internal combustion engines and electrified powertrain systems. As a recognized expert in these fields, MAHLE Powertrain is engaged in the extensive research, development and application of new traditional and advanced drivelines into cost-effective, production feasible solutions for enhanced efficiency, improved fuel economy and lower emissions. As a services subsidiary of the MAHLE Group, MAHLE Powertrain has six technical centers strategically located in the UK, Germany, USA, and China with approx. 400 employees in total and is well-placed to provide solutions around the globe. It operates independently of the main group when considering choice of components or technologies. Additional informationMAHLE Powertrain’s Northampton, UK, facility also includes a Vehicle Development Centre that supports the testing and verification of next-generation electric and hydrogen-fueled vehicles. The facility’s test chambers can accommodate both two- and four-wheel-drive vehicles tested at speeds up to 155mph. Climatic conditions can be simulated from -40°C to +60°C with humidity ranging from 10% to 80%, while pressure control allows altitudes up to 5,000m (16,400ft) to be simulated. In addition, the site includes their Battery Development Centre, with its own substation and dedicated National Grid connection, which has the capability to test battery packs of up to 1MW with full fire protection in the event of a thermal runaway. A prototype and low volume battery build area also supports customers with complete end to end battery development. The Battery Development Centre and expertise is also replicated in its Stuttgart facility for European based customers.

Aston Martin set to thrill with dynamic display at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Industry News

An incredible line-up of Aston Martin sports cars has been assembled to supply velocity with verve at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, including Valkyrie, Valour, Valiant, Victor and Vantage Aston Martin Valiant will make its global debut at Goodwood and two-time Formula One® World Champion Fernando Alonso will take the wheel on Friday The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place 11-14 July 01 July, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin will supply velocity with verve at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed (11 – 14 July) when Valkyrie, Valour, Valiant, Victor and Vantage headline the marque’s line-up of ultra-luxury sports cars heading up the famous Goodwood Hillclimb. The Festival of Speed, held at Goodwood every July is a highlight of the British summer season. The event has become an unmissable pilgrimage for lovers of speed who travel from across the world to revel in the sights and sounds of the world’s finest sports cars, driven by the racing stars of the past, the present and the future. Visitors to this year’s Festival are in for some high-octane thrills, courtesy of Aston Martin, as they witness the global debut of Aston Martin Valiant, one of just 38 ultra-exclusive, track-focused, road-legal special editions, created following a personal commission by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver, two-time Formula One® World Champion Fernando Alonso, who will drive the new car on Friday at Goodwood. Embodying Aston Martin’s commitment to build pure driver’s cars, Valiant is sure to be one of the stars of the show, especially in its Muncher-inspired specification, which is a nod to the legendary Aston Martin Le Mans race car. Joining Valiant in the Supercar Paddock and on the Goodwood Hillclimb is a truly eye-watering line-up of Aston Martins. Valkyrie, Aston Martin’s game-changing hypercar is back. The crowd-pleasing, head-turner made its dynamic debut at Goodwood in 2021 and is now the inspiration for the new Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH-hypercar that is set to return the brand to the top echelons of sports car racing in 2025. Next up is Valour, created to celebrate the 110th anniversary of Aston Martin. With it’s bespoke 6-speed manual transmission, uniquely mated to a 5.2 litre Twin-Turbo V12 for maximum driver engagement and timeless classic appeal, Valour is the last of an era. The one-of-a-kind Aston Martin Victor, described by Top Gear as “the hypercar the eighties never had” was created by the brand’s unique personalisation service – ‘Q by Aston Martin’ – with a manual gearbox and, naturally, a V12 engine. The Festival of Speed provides a rare opportunity to see this unique car in action on the hillclimb and up-close in the Supercar Paddock. Launched just a few months ago, the new Aston Martin Vantage is Aston Martins truly focused sportscar. The latest car to take the vaunted Vantage nameplate is continuing the brand’s tradition of creating potent front-engined, rear-wheel drive sports cars, engineered to deliver maximum thrills with maximum confidence. Vantage is the heartbeat of the Aston Martin brand and this new model exemplifies the brand in every way. The new Aston Martin Vantage will also be represented in the motorsport paddock by the one-off Official FIA Safety Car of Formula 1® and by the new-for-2024 Vantage GT3 race car, which competes across the globe in series including the FIA World Endurance Championship. Joining all the ‘V’ models at Goodwood, is the World’s first Super Tourer, the Aston Martin DB12 – the first of the new generation of sports cars. Also on display in the First Glance paddock is the new DBX707, showing off its striking new interior design, complete with new, state-of-the-art infotainment system, developed in-house at Aston Martin. Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand & Commercial Officer said: “The Festival of Speed is the highlight of the season for those who worship at the temple of speed. We are proud to play a part in this incredible, annual celebration of speed and this year we are delighted to offer up quite the array of Aston Martin sports cars and also the brand-new spec of DBX707. We look forward to this event every year as it is a great opportunity to showcase our brand to true connoisseurs of sports cars.” The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed gets underway on July 11th and runs through until July 14th.

My Honda+ app to offer simpler subscription options and extend cover to all new hybrid and electric models

Industry News

My Honda+ connected car application has been improved and refined to provide a range of comfort, convenience, and security features App coverage has expanded to cover all new Honda hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric vehicles Subscription model streamlined to simplify user experience with a new, clearly defined package Honda has relaunched its advanced connected car application following consultation with Owners and Users. The MyHonda+ app now covers the brand’s full current range of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles – allowing owners to control a wide range of functionality and further integrate their vehicle into their lives. From July 1st 2024, owners of the Jazz e:HEV, Civic e:HEV, HR-V e:HEV, ZR-V e:HEV and the latest-generation CR-V e:HEV will be able to access the virtual dashboard, remote vehicle operation, location finder, and geo-fencing to ensure peace of mind when leaving the car. In addition, Honda’s Digital Key will be made available for all models except Jazz, allowing owners to transform their smartphone into a key and safely share vehicle access with up to five additional drivers. Other features of the revised MyHonda+ app include the ability to send a point of interest to the sat-nav, create favourite routes, plus the use of a smartphone camera when pairing with the vehicle. Revisions to the app also mean more timely and accurate updating of the vehicle status once the ignition is switched off. All-electric and plug-in hybrid models will gain further functionality, allowing users to remotely schedule vehicle charging to meet their needs, as well as pre-heating or pre-cooling the cabin via the AC system prior to a journey. Subscription modelsHonda has also simplified and streamlined the MyHonda+ subscription process to ensure customers fully understand what services will be available – rolling the previous ‘Core Connectivity’, ‘Safety & Journey’, and ‘Honda Digital Key’ packages into one. This will be available free of charge for three years from the vehicle’s first registration date, followed by a low monthly payment thereafter. This new structure also allows second and subsequent owners to use the functionality free of charge if the vehicle is purchased within three years from the vehicle’s first registration. Previously, this was only available to the first registered owner of the vehicle. The updated My Honda+ will be rolled out for all existing and new users from July 1st, 2024. Current owners of the Jazz e:HEV, Civic e:HEV, HR-V e:HEV, ZR-V e:HEV and the latest generation CR-V e:HEV can book an appointment at their local dealer to activate the TCU module within the car, to enable the vehicle to sync with the app. New and prospective owners can also experience the app and trial its new functionality at dealerships.

Maserati MSG Racing stages strong recovery in Portland

Industry News

Maserati MSG Racing’s Maximilian Günther gains 13 positions to finish eighth in Portland The Race in Numbers Maximilian GüntherFree Practice Three // P19Qualifying // P21 [1:10.005, Group A]Race // P8Positions Gained // +13Fastest Lap // 1:11.648Championship Position // P8 [73 points] Jehan DaruvalaFree Practice Three // P20Qualifying // P9 [1:09.758, Group A]Race // P12Positions Gained // -3Fastest Lap // 1:11.501Championship Position // P20 [8 points] Maserati MSG RacingChampionship // P8 [81 points] Maserati MSG Racing’s Maximilian Günther staged an impressive recovery drive at the 2024 Portland E-Prix, gaining 13 positions to finish eighth in a hard-fought race in Oregon. After facing a challenging first race on Saturday, the 26-year-old rebounded in strong fashion on Sunday after initially struggling for pace across practice and Qualifying. Max launched his efforts from Group A but lined up at the rear of the grid in 21st while team-mate, Jehan Daruvala, qualified ninth after narrowly missing out on the duels by only 0.003 seconds. At the start of the race, both drivers chose to hold position before strategically dropping back in the field to save energy which would be deployed at a later stage. With an energy offset over their closest rivals, Max and Jehan then used this to their advantage and began to fight through the pack with furious efficiency. As the battle started to heat up ahead, Max slotted into the top 10 on lap 15 by overtaking Edoardo Mortara and entered a multi-lap battle with Sacha Fenestraz and Norman Nato in the fight for eighth. After overtaking both, Max was unfortunately pushed wide by Lucas di Grassi and slipped to 10th before an ill-timed Safety Car, caused by debris on track, neutralised the race on lap 18. This pause in action reduced energy saving targets throughout the field, and as a result, minimised Max and Jehan’s earlier strategic advantage, although the pair continued to fight. By clearing Fenestraz for a second time, Max slotted into ninth and overtook Di Grassi on the final lap to claim eighth at the flag, while Jehan also passed the Brazilian to finish 12th. Season 10 of the FIA Formula E World Championship will continue in London, United Kingdom on 20-21 July 2024 where a campaign will come to a close and a champion will be crowned. In Their Words Maximilian Günther, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing“This weekend has been very tough for us, so recovering to the top ten after starting from the last row of the grid is an achievement. Without the Safety Car, I think even more could have been possible but I’m still very happy. There’s no doubt that this weekend has been challenging, and there are still a few question marks about our performance remaining. We will use the time between now and London to clear that up, but we can be happy. Compared to where we were last year, we’ve made some good changes to the car, and street circuits are good for us, so London should suit our package.” Jehan Daruvala, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing“Today’s race didn’t go as I had hoped. After a good performance in Qualifying, I tried to save as much energy as possible at the start, but the timing of the Safety Car lowered everyone else’s energy targets which meant that I wasn’t able to use my own advantage to full effect. Our focus is now on London to make the most of the remaining opportunities to score points – I’m hoping to end the season on a high.” Cyril Blais, Deputy Team Principal, Maserati MSG Racing“Mixed emotions for the team today. With Max starting at the back, it was always going to be a difficult race but we decided to go aggressive with our strategy. We saved energy at the beginning which paid off, and then we began to climb through the pack. Unfortunately, the Safety Car came out at the worst possible time for us because it minimised the advantage we had, but nevertheless, Max was able to finish eighth which, after starting from 21st, is a great result. With Jehan starting inside the top 10, we had high hopes for him to score some good points, and it was a shame that we couldn’t have both cars up there. We’ll take the positives and key learnings away from this weekend, debrief thoroughly, and focus on our preparation for London so that we can put ourselves in contention for more championship points.” Giovanni Sgro, Head of Maserati Corse“Obviously not an easy race. The whole weekend was more difficult than expected. We know how stressful two-race weekends can be for the drivers, who often get to race 2 without having slept well and short of energy. Nevertheless, we scored some points thanks to a spectacular recovery and we are ready for a hard-fought season finale in London. Once again, the weekend has been useful to gather data, not only looking ahead to the next race, but also to further explore the issues of technology transfer from the track to the road with our Maserati Folgore range.” 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 Levante – the first SUV made by Maserati, 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 Levante – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident Brand. The top of the range…