Women On the Move Against Cancer donates £20,500 in 2024

Industry News

Women On the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC) donates a further £500 to each of its 2024 charities: Oesophageal Patients Association (OPA) and Cure Leukaemia, taking the total to £8,000 each A further three cancer charities receive donations of £1,500 each from WOMAC Total pledged to cancer charities this year totals £20,500 thanks to the generosity of WOMAC supporters 19 September 2024. After another successful Women On the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC) party and two weeks of fundraising known as WOMAC Weeks, the organisation has exceeded its pledge to 2024 charities Oesophageal Patients Association (OPA) and Cure Leukaemia to £8,000 each and donated a further £1,500 to three additional charities bringing the total donated so far this year to £20,500. Two fantastic causes – Oesophageal Patients Association (OPA) and Cure Leukaemia – were nominated by Committee members or Patrons thanks to the support they have provided to loved ones during a cancer diagnosis and treatment. OPA has led the fight against oesophageal and gastric cancers for more than 30 years supporting patients, families and carers, while also raising awareness of these cancers and their prevention. Cure Leukaemia was established in 2003 with the mission to allow patients with blood cancer in the Birmingham region to access new treatments. Since then, the charity has expanded to a national level offering potentially life-saving treatments to patients across the UK. In addition, the following three charities have each received a one-off donation of £1,500 to support their efforts: Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation: hosts a variety of educational programmes alongside fundraising and awareness events Cancer United: aims to improve the physical and mental well-being of those with cancer from diagnosis onwards, inspiring them to embrace the things they can do and to refuse to be defined by what they can’t, while also giving support to those close to them Breast Cancer Haven: supporting those diagnosed with breast cancer and their loved ones, offering practical advice alongside physical and emotional support Each charity was nominated by friends, Patrons or Committee members, former Volkswagen CEO Robin Woolcock, Sue Loy and Sarah Bradley respectively. Georgia Fox, Chair of WOMAC, said: “Thanks to the many supporters of WOMAC I’m delighted that we have not only exceeded our pledges to our 2024 charities, but also donated to a further three incredibly worthy causes. All of the charities have been nominated by the WOMAC community and it is truly humbling to be able to support organisations that mean so much to our many supporters. We are already looking to next year’s fundraiser and excited to announce our incredibly worthy 2025 charities.” Donations can still be made via WOMAC’s JustGiving page by visiting: https://www.justgiving.com/page/womac-2023. WOMAC will soon announce its 2025 charities.

Elevate Your Urban Drive with Nissan Qashqai

Industry News

Nissan launches new ad campaign with an eye-catching London stunt Larger than life Qashqai is ‘parked’ at the top of a 49-metre chimney at Truman Brewery in East London Installation will remain in place until Sunday 22 September Nissan’s latest advertising campaign has hit new heights this week with an eye-catching stunt in London to celebrate the launch of the new Qashqai. Passers-by can now see a model of the British-built Qashqai attached to the top of Truman Brewery’s 49-metre high chimney – a 200-year old London landmark situated in Brick Lane, Shoreditch. The fibreglass model is one and half times the size of a normal Qashqai, measures 6.5 metres in length, 2.7 metres in width, and 2.4 metres in height – and it weighs 750kg. It took around seven weeks to make and, with the help of two cranes, was hoisted into position this week before being fixed in place. Around 50 people were involved in the planning and activation of the stunt. It will remain on the chimney until Sunday [September 22] and is part of Nissan’s ongoing marketing campaign – Elevate Your Urban Drive – celebrating the launch of the new Nissan Qashqai, which is manufactured in Sunderland. A spokesperson said: “We’re very proud of this British-built model and wanted to show if off for everyone to see. “So, we figured why not park it in a place where it can’t be missed.” The new Qashqai features updated exterior styling, a striking new N-Design grade, upgraded interior features and enhanced technology, including Google Built-in. Powered by Nissan’s unique e-POWER system, it offers the sensation of driving an electric vehicle without the need to recharge. To date, more than four million Nissan Qashqai have been made in Sunderland since the first ones rolled off the production line in 2006. And around 140,000 e-Power Qashqai have been produced in the north-east since 2022. For more information about the new Nissan Qashqai, visit www.nissan.co.uk

BMW honors Esther Mahlangu as official partner of Frieze London 2024

Industry News

Actor and Talk Art podcast co-host Russell Tovey presents his private collection in response to the artist’s work at the BMW Lounge. Frieze Music, presented by BMW, features contemporary Indie-Pop singer Arlo Parks at KOKO Club. Munich/London. From October 9 to 13, Frieze London and Frieze Masters will return to London’s Regent’s Park. As one of Frieze’s long-term global partners since 2004, BMW will honor the artistic oeuvre of Ndebele artist Esther Mahlangu, who was the first woman to create a BMW Art Car in 1991. Together with BMW, Serpentine will reveal “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” (“I am because you are”), a new site-specific mural by Mahlangu in the garden at Serpentine North. In celebration of cultural exchange and responding to Mahlangu’s work, renowned actor, collector and Talk Art host Russell Tovey will curate a selection of artworks from his private collection that will be displayed at Frieze London in the BMW Lounge. He chose pieces by female, queer and artists of colour in response to works by Mahlangu. The first interview publication with Esther Mahlangu, titled “Esther Mahlangu: To Paint is in My Heart”, published by Thames & Hudson, will be launched during Frieze week with co-editors Azu Nwagbogu and Hans Ulrich Obrist. Esther Mahlangu (b. 1935, South Africa) has been creating large-scale and site-specific works for over eight decades and is a pioneer of Pan-African contemporary art. She began painting at the age of ten, learning the traditional Ndebele techniques and visual language of covering houses in bold patterns from her mother and grandmother. Mahlangu uses natural pigments mixed with clay, soil and cow dung to paint directly on the exteriors of structures in her village. Rather than using stencils and tape to achieve lines and shapes, she paints by hand with chicken feathers and an array of different brushes. The artist also works with acrylic paints on canvas, which allows her to explore different scales and a broader colour palette. In 1991, Esther Mahlangu designed the 12th BMW Art Car in the esteemed collection, based on a BMW 525i – becoming the first woman and African artist to do so. Since 1975, artists such as Alexander Calder, Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Jenny Holzer, Jeff Koons, Cao Fei, and John Baldessari have turned BMW race and series cars into works of art. Her BMW Art Car marked the beginning of a longstanding relationship between the BMW Group and Mahlangu, inspiring future collaborations. BMW and Esther Mahlangu during Frieze London“Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu”, presented in the garden at Serpentine North in collaboration with the BMW Group and The Melrose Gallery, supported by Benjamin Milstein, is Esther Mahlangu’s first public mural in the UK. Painted over sixteen wooden panels, the work depicts traditional Ndebele shapes and patterns outlined with a black border. The title of the work translates directly from Ndebele as “I am because you are”, emphasising the importance of communities and unity among humans and other living species. “I am proud to present this monumental outdoor work at Serpentine in London. It is my wish that this painting brings much joy to those who see it in celebration and recognition of the interconnectedness that exists between our two nations and indeed all living beings”, comments the artist. Bettina Korek, CEO, and Hans Ulrich Obrist, Artistic Director, Serpentine say: “Esther Mahlangu is is one of the most important artists of our time who continues to inspire emerging talents. Mahlangu is a polymath who brings art into society. This is a wonderful moment to celebrate Serpentine’s friendship with the artist and honour her work in the UK. We’re grateful to all our partners who have made this fantastic project possible and particularly BMW for their support, and we hope audiences will engage with the piece and the unique surroundings of The Royal Parks”. The work will be officially inaugurated at the traditional Serpentine breakfast on October 9 during Frieze London. Various events at the BMW Lounge at Frieze London will celebrate the relationship with the artist. The lounge exhibition itself salutes Esther Mahlangu’s work, showcasing a selection of the collection of renowned actor, collector and Talk Art podcast host, Russell Tovey, for the first time at Frieze London. As an admirer of the artist’s colourful abstract paintings, he chose pieces by Etel Adnan, Math Bass, Matt Connors, Jadé Fadojutimi, Mary Heilman, Carmen Herrera and Hayley Tompkins in response to Esther Mahlangu’s works “Ndebele Abstract” and “Ndebele Abstract 2022”. “Esther’s geometric work inspires me deeply, the freedom that can be found within her paintings and her practice resonates throughout my collection. Geometric abstract art has been something that I’ve gravitated towards for many years. To live with these works has felt calming and has satisfied the curiosity and enthusiasm that I long for in an image. I am so excited to bring works from my own personal collection, that bring so much to me on a daily basis, into a rich conversation with Esther Mahlangu”, says Tovey. During a talk followed by a reception on October 10 at the BMW Lounge, Russell Tovey will explain his fascination with Mahlangu. BMW is proud to enable the first interview publication with Esther Mahlangu. “Esther Mahlangu. To Paint is in My Heart” will be published by Thames & Hudson in autumn 2024 and exclusively pre-launched during Frieze London. The book explores the life and revolutionary art of Esther Mahlangu through a series of interviews between the artist and curators Hans Ulrich Obrist, Azu Nwagbogu and BMW’s head of cultural engagement, Thomas Girst as well as a foreword by Nontobeko Ntombela, curator of the Esther Mahlangu “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting” retrospective. In addition, the South African fashion designer Thebe Magugu provides an insight into the connection between Esther Mahlangu and Ndebele culture in relation to fashion as part of the book. On October 9, Hans Ulrich Obrist, Azu Nwagbogu and Thomas Girst will talk about their collaboration for “Esther Mahlangu. To Paint is in My Heart” at the BMW Lounge and…

Mastering the mud: Isuzu’s Guide to Mud Driving

Industry News

Isuzu UK offers expert tips for mud driving with the Isuzu D-Max, highlighting its 4WD modes, rear differential lock, and lightweight design to navigate through tough terrains. A 10-step guide covers preparation, driving techniques, recovery tips, and post-drive vehicle maintenance to ensure a smooth and safe mud adventure. The guide emphasises key practices such as maintaining steady momentum, using the rear differential lock for extra traction, and thorough cleaning to prevent damage after mud driving and ensure safety on the next trip. Isuzu UK is here to guide you through the thrilling yet challenging world of mud driving with the unstoppable Isuzu D-Max pick-up. With its rugged build and high-performance features, the D-Max is designed to power through the stickiest of terrains. Equipped with a versatile 4-wheel-drive system, the Isuzu D-Max’s 2H, 4H, and 4L modes ensure you’re ready for any off-road adventure. The rear differential lock proves invaluable when traversing deep, slick mud, providing extra traction where it’s needed most. Its lightweight design (around 2 tonnes), electronically assisted steering, and excellent ground clearance make the D-Max a master of navigating rough, muddy paths. Here’s our 10-step guide to mud driving with your Isuzu D-Max: Pack for the Mud: Before heading out, pack a recovery kit with essentials like a tow strap, shovel, traction aids (recovery boards), gloves, and an air compressor in case of tyre pressure adjustments. Check Your Tyres: Opt for all-terrain or mud-terrain tyres to improve grip. Mud tyres with larger, self-cleaning treads are ideal for dispersing the mud and maintaining traction. Engage 4WD Mode: Switch to 4H or 4L depending on the depth of the mud. 4H is suited for general muddy conditions, while 4L offers more torque for deeper or thicker mud. Maintain Steady Momentum: Keep a consistent speed without sudden acceleration or braking. A smooth, steady pace helps avoid wheel spin and sinking. Keep Your Wheels Straight: Keep your wheels pointed straight ahead as much as possible. Turning in thick mud increases resistance and the risk of getting stuck. Use the Rear Differential Lock: Activate the rear differential lock when facing deep mud or inclines. This ensures both rear wheels move together, improving traction and helping you power through. Avoid Over-Revving: Spinning the wheels too fast in mud will dig them deeper. If you feel a loss of traction, ease off the accelerator to let the tyres regain grip. Recovery from Stuck: If you get bogged down, don’t panic. Gently rock the vehicle back and forth by alternating between forward and reverse gears. Using traction boards or shovelling mud away from the tyres can also help. Post-Mud Cleanup: After the adventure, clean your D-Max thoroughly, focusing on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and brakes to remove all traces of mud and prevent potential long-term damage. Inspect for Damage: Check for any damage to your tyres, suspension, and undercarriage to ensure everything remains in top condition. Pay particular attention to steering and braking systems to ensure there’s no issues. If you want to take your mudding a step further, the Isuzu accessories catalogue will come in handy. With one of the widest ranges of pick-up parts and accessories available on the market, each D-Max can be built for special use. Explore all accessories at www.isuzu.co.uk/accessories. To showcase D-Max’s exceptional off-road capabilities, Isuzu has recently built a one-off special project, the Mudmaster. Building on the V-Cross trim, it comes fully accessorised to enhance your muddy adventures. It features a snorkel for water wading, a winch for self-recovery, lifted suspension for increased ground clearance, and powerful lamps for superior visibility. These enhancements ensure you’re well-equipped to tackle the toughest muddy terrains. To explore the Mudmaster’s remarkable features, visit www.isuzu.co.uk/mudmaster. George Wallis, Isuzu UK Head of Marketing, shared, “When it comes to mud driving, the 4×4 Isuzu D-Max pick-up is built to tackle the toughest terrain, so you can get down and dirty with confidence. Also, being responsible off-road doesn’t mean being a stick in the mud, the 4×4 D-Max will help you really enjoy the mudness.” Find out more about responsible off-roading and green laning with Isuzu D-Max at www.isuzu.co.uk. Note to Editors For 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. PR CONTACTS Filip CzajkowskiPR Manager07407 6295210121 730 8071fczajkowski@isuzu.co.uk Thomas DavisPR & Content Executive07391 053044tdavis@isuzu.co.uk 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. 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.

New INEOS Automotive vehicle locator helps customers find new and certified used stock

Industry News

Powerful new sales platform details every pre-configured new and Certified by INEOS used Grenadier in stock UK launched in September, with roll-out to follow in key markets including Germany, Australia, South Africa and the US Mike Whittington, CCO, INEOS Automotive, comments, “From the earliest days of the business, we focused on providing an exceptional buying experience for customers. This new platform will ensure they have online access to every Grenadier model on sale in their country, so they can easily choose and finance their vehicle with peace-of-mind.” Bespoke software enables dealers to manage their new and certified used stock in real time London, 18 Sept 2024 – INEOS Automotive has launched a straightforward vehicle locator for all pre-configured new and Certified by INEOS used Grenadier stock. It will provide customers with full details of every Grenadier model currently on sale in their country, as well as presenting finance packages available from Santander Consumer Finance (UK, DE, US) and Pepper Money (AU). The new tool has now launched in the UK, with a planned roll-out in Germany, Australia, South Africa and the US before the end of 2024. As well as incorporating a gallery of images, videos and full specifications for each vehicle, the locator will also detail the service history for all Certified by INEOS used vehicles. Mike Whittington, Chief Commercial Officer, INEOS Automotive, comments, “From the earliest days of the business, we focused on providing an exceptional buying experience for customers. This new platform will ensure our customers have simple and quick online access to every available Grenadier model on sale in their country, so they can easily choose and finance their vehicle with peace-of-mind.” INEOS Automotive partnered with digital automotive sales specialist Nexus Point to develop the new service. Nexus Point’s scalable online vehicle locator plug-in is directly integrated into INEOS Automotive’s existing management software systems, helping retail partners centrally manage all new and certified used vehicle stock. “Our scalable Apex platform is perfectly tailored to work with INEOS Automotive’s growing sales network and its combination of agency and dealership models,” says Ross Giblin, Sales Director, Nexus Point. “Apex plugs directly into INEOS Automotive’s existing software and will accelerate sales growth by ensuring potential customers will have access to every Grenadier on sale in their market. We’re looking forward to rolling it out to other key markets.” To view pre-configured and Certified by INEOS vehicles, visit: stock.ineosgrenadier.com.

HORSE starts plug-in hybrid engine production at Valladolid facility

Industry News

HORSE Powertrain Solutions begins producing 152PS 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine to be used in Renault Rafale E-Tech Hybrid Production at HORSE Valladolid plant initially targets 1,200 units per month Investment in Valladolid for new PHEV engine production totals €4 million and will create 345 jobs HORSE is a division of HORSE Powertrain Limited, a global leader in hybrid and combustion powertrain solutions across 17 plants and 5 R&D centres HORSE Powertrain Solutions, a division of HORSE Powertrain Limited and a leader in innovative and low emissions powertrain systems, has started a production run of 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines for use in plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEVs). The proven HORSE ‘HR12’ engine can deliver peak power of 110kW (152PS) and maximum torque of 230Nm. The new PHEV-optimised HR12 units will be produced at HORSE’s plant at Valladolid. There, HORSE is initially targeting production of 1,200 units per month, with a maximum possible production capacity of 6,875 engines per month. The HR12 PHEV variant will be first used in the upcoming Renault Rafale E-Tech 4×4 Hybrid. Development of the HR12’s PHEV variant began in July 2021, with HORSE having invested €4 million in its Valladolid plant to modify and scale its assembly line. This has included a €260,000 investment in people and staff, creating 345 jobs. Patrice Haettel, Chief Executive Officer at HORSE, said: “This HR12 is the first plug-in hybrid engine manufactured at our Valladolid facility and the second produced by HORSE globally. This is a major landmark for our team, and proof of how HORSE’s internal combustion engine expertise can facilitate market-leading, low-emission mobility solutions. With outstanding range and efficiency, this PHEV architecture showcase the direction of the automotive industry and the value of HORSE’s indispensable technology leadership to our partners.” Leading PHEV powertrainAlongside the HR12 internal combustion engine, the complete powertrain unit will also feature three electric motors – two main, and one secondary: the first main electric motor on the front axle, delivering 50kW of power and 205Nm of torque the second main electric motor on the rear axle, delivering 100kW and 195Nm a secondary HSG (High-voltage Starter Generator) electric motor producing 25kW and 50Nm Altogether, this will mean the PHEV’s maximum power output will be over 220kW (300hp), driven by a specially adapted and clutchless multi-mode gearbox. The PHEV’s energy will be stored in a 400-volt lithium-ion battery, with a total capacity of 22kWh. Altogether, this means the powertrain will deliver a pure-electric range of over 100km for the Rafale E-Tech 4×4 Hybrid. The PHEV’s superior efficiency will mean that the new Rafale 4×4 will achieve superior emissions performance. In electric mode, it will achieve an average fuel consumption of just 0.7 litres per 100km, with CO2 emissions of only 15g/km. HORSE: a leader in automotive innovationHORSE was created to provide highly efficient, low-emission engines, transmissions, and technologies to meet the varying power generation needs around the world. HORSE operates eight production plants across seven countries, three R&D centres and a head office based in Madrid, Spain – the company produces 3.2 million units per year for its customers around the world.

Renault and Dacia launch official eBay stores, expanding access to genuine vehicle parts and accessories

Industry News

eBay launches official Renault and Dacia stores, offering easy access to genuine parts and accessories for both older and current vehicle models The partnership enhances vehicle maintenance by providing thousands of high-quality parts, supported by eBay Assured Fit guarantee and My Garage feature Renault and Dacia join eBay’s prestigious lineup of official OEM stores, solidifying eBay’s position as a leading marketplace for authentic vehicle parts and accessories London, 17 September 2024 – eBay, one of the leading UK online marketplaces for automotive parts and accessories, has announced the launch of official stores for Renault and Dacia. This partnership makes it easier than ever for owners of these popular vehicle brands to find and purchase a comprehensive selection of genuine parts and accessories, catering to both older and current models. The addition of Renault and Dacia to eBay’s growing lineup of official OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) stores marks a significant expansion in eBay’s commitment to offering high-quality, authentic products to customers. Whether you own a classic model or the latest release, the new stores provide a wide range of parts, ensuring that you can maintain your vehicle with components that meet the manufacturers’ exacting standards, including their corresponding warranties. Abir Tewari, Director of Commercial Operations – Parts and Accessories at eBay UK Ltd, commented: “We’re excited to welcome Renault and Dacia to eBay’s expanding collection of official OEM stores. This collaboration means that our customers now have even greater access to a broad array of genuine parts and accessories, all with the confidence of eBay Assured Fit. It’s another step forward in our mission to make vehicle maintenance more accessible and reliable for everyone.” Mathieu Mignon, Director of Aftersales at Renault Group UK, said: “Launching eBay stores for both Renault and Dacia marks a significant milestone for us. We know that owners will benefit greatly from the convenience and accessibility of eBay as a platform for sourcing essential parts and accessories for their vehicles. We look forward to expanding our stores further and continuing this valuable partnership with eBay.” Renault and Dacia owners can now browse through thousands of official parts, ranging from essential servicing items like oil and air filters to wear-and-tear components such as brakes and exhausts. All parts come with the assurance of manufacturer quality and eBay Assured Fit guarantee, which promises a full refund if the part does not fit, provided it’s returned within 30 days. Customers can also take advantage of eBay’s My Garage feature, allowing them to enter their vehicle registration number to ensure that the parts they’re purchasing are a perfect fit for their specific model. This user-friendly tool, combined with the extensive selection available in the new Renault and Dacia stores, makes it easier than ever for owners to keep their vehicles in top condition. Renault and Dacia now join a prestigious lineup of official eBay OEM stores, including Ford, BMW, MINI, Toyota, Lexus and Suzuki . This expansion broadens eBay’s offerings, providing customers with the best products from the brands they trust.

Limited and highly exclusive: Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ “Motorsport Collectors Edition”

Industry News

Special model limited to 200 units Exclusive paintwork with star pattern and PETRONAS-coloured contrasting elements Fully equipped including edition-specific car cover Affalterbach. As part of the Formula 1™ Singapore Grand Prix, Mercedes‑AMG is presenting the highly exclusive GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ “Motorsport Collectors Edition“ (combined energy consumption: 14.0 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 319 g/km | CO₂ class: G)[1]. With numerous individual design elements and equipment details, it creates a close link to the Mercedes‑AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Even the base obsidian black metallic colour is inspired by the team’s current Formula 1™ racing car. The same applies to the hand-painted star pattern with silver Mercedes stars on the rear flanks and the filigree, PETRONAS-coloured decorative stripes. These extend from the front fenders over the belt line to the roof. There are also further PETRONAS-coloured contrasts: these can be seen on the front splitter, on the flics of the side air intakes of the front apron, on the decorative elements in the side sill panels and on the rear diffuser attachment. The 21‑inch AMG forged wheels with a matte black finish and cross-spoke design are accentuated with PETRONAS-coloured rim flanges. The brake callipers of the standard AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system with six-piston fixed callipers at the front and one-piston floating callipers at the rear are also the same colour. The front axle is fitted with 420 millimetre brake discs. The “Motorsport Collectors Edition” rides on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R Cup tyres as standard. Their dimensions are 295/30 ZR 21 at the front and 305/30 ZR 21 at the rear. The standard AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre package, with its front splitter, trim strips in the side sills and diffuser and rear wing in high-quality carbon fibre, emphasises the proximity to motorsport. The scope of equipment also includes the panoramic glass roof and the AMG Aerodynamics package with a fixed rear wing on the tailgate. The AMG Night Package II reinforces the individual visual appearance of the “Motorsport Collectors Edition”. It comprises elements in black chrome, including radiator trim, typography and Mercedes star at the rear. The AMG fuel filler cap in silver chrome with “AMG” lettering also emphasises the special status of the edition. PETRONAS-coloured details also found in the interiorThe interior is also characterised by numerous PETRONAS-coloured details. The standard AMG Performance seats are upholstered in black Nappa leather/MICROCUT microfibre with PETRONAS-coloured topstitching and embossed AMG crests in the head restraints. The AMG trim elements in carbon harmonise with the heated AMG Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT leather/microfibre with PETRONAS-coloured topstitching. This stitching can also be found on the door trim panels, the instrument panel and the centre console. The AMG door-sill trims are coated in black and illuminated in the colour of PETRONAS. The Burmester High End3D Surround Sound System, with 15 loudspeakers and 1,170 watts of system power, is standard in this very extensively equipped special model. There is also the 360o camera, MBUX Interior Assistant, Driver Assistance Package and head-up display. AMG TRACK PACE provides support with a wealth of data when driving on the racetrack. A system to raise the front axle can be used to lift the front of the vehicle prior to crossing speed bumps or kerbs. The ambient lighting and the ENERGIZING package contribute to a sense of well-being on long journeys. The “‘1 out of 200” edition badge in the centre console indicates the limited edition of the special model. To protect this valuable edition from theft and vandalism, the model is equipped with GUARD 360o vehicle monitoring. Each customer also receives a customised, edition-specific AMG indoor car cover. With its breathable outer skin made of tear-resistant synthetic fibre fabric and an antistatic inner fabric made of flannel, it protects the vehicle from dust and scratches in the garage. The Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ as a “Motorsport Collectors Edition” is aimed at car enthusiasts and collectors who are looking for a particularly sporty driving experience and are Formula 1™ fans. 450 kW (612 hp) of power from the AMG 4.0‑litre V8 biturbo engine, aerodynamic fine-tuning with reduced lift and more powerful cooling contribute to enhanced driving dynamics. Contact:Catrin Dunz-Ludwig, phone: +49 (0) 176 309 978 55, catrin.dunz-ludwig@mercedes-benz.comFelix Siggemann, phone: +49 (0) 176 309 346 05, felix.siggemann@mercedes-benz.com Further information about Mercedes-AMG is available at www.mercedes-amg.com. Press information and digital services for journalists and multipliers can be found on our Mercedes-Benz Media online platform at media.mercedes-benz.com. Learn more about current topics and events related to Mercedes-Benz Cars & Vans on our @MB_Press X channel at www.twitter.com/MB_Press. Mercedes‑Benz AG at a glanceMercedes‑Benz AG is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Group AG with a total of around 166,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes‑Benz Cars and Mercedes‑Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes‑Benz brand with Mercedes‑AMG, Mercedes‑Maybach and G‑Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes‑Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of luxury passenger cars. In 2023 it sold around two million passenger cars and 447,800 vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes‑Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes‑Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes‑Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain. [1]The specified values were determined according to the prescribed measurement procedure WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure). The ranges given refer to the…

Protean Electric-led consortium awarded £5.5 million APC grant to accelerate IWM development and boost UK net-zero future

Industry News

Farnham, UK – [18 September 2024] – Protean Electric (Protean) the world-leading developer of in-wheel motors (IWM) can confirm its consortium has secured a £5.5 million Collaborative Research and Development grant from the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC). The funding was announced yesterday by Sarah Jones, Minister of State at both the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the Department for Business and Trade, during a tour of Protean’s Farnham-based HQ. The project, named PULSE (Power electronics Upscale for Localisation and Sustainable Electrification), will be led by Protean and will advance its state-of-the-art of IWM and, in conjunction with Unipart Manufacturing, amongst other consortium members, will deliver a dedicated make-like-production pilot line for power electronics systems used by IWM and other net-zero products. Sarah Jones, Minister of State at both the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the Department for Business and Trade, said, “Labour is committed to boosting the jewel in the crown of our manufacturing base – the automotive industry. Working in partnership with industry this fund will drive innovation and propel the development of next generation zero emission vehicle technologies.” Andrew Whitehead, Chief Executive Officer of Protean Electric, said, “We are thrilled that project PULSE has been selected by the APC and the new Government, as it supports Protean to continue to lead electric vehicle innovation from our UK development centre. Protean’s state-of-the-art in-wheel motors are a key solution to improve range, user experience and most importantly affordability of electric vehicles. We were delighted to welcome Minister Jones yesterday and would like to thank her for the new Government’s continued commitment towards net-zero, and look forward to engaging further on these topics in the future.” The project PULSE consortium draws on other UK-based engineering and innovation partners. Unipart will bring decades of advanced manufacturing expertise to create a first-of-its-kind flexible assembly line, that can build a mixture of inverters and converters, including Viritech’s advanced DC/DC 800V converter. The collaboration builds on sensor technology from Transense and recycling processes from Hypromag, and will further improve efficiency and sustainability through industrialising best-in-class research from Coventry University and Warwick Manufacturing Group.

Carlotta Adreani, of TeleGiornale 5, the second most important TV news in Italy, joins WWCOTY

Industry News

With Carlotta Adreani’s appointment, the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year initiative now features 78 jurors from around the globe 19 September 2024 – The Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) is pleased to announce that Carlotta Adreani, from TG5 TV News, has joined its international jury. WWCOTY is the only car award in the world composed exclusively of women motoring journalists, and with Carlotta Adreani’s appointment, it now features 78 judges from 54 countries. In TG5 (TeleGiornale 5), the most important TV program in Italy, Carlotta Adreani talks about economics and cars. She pays special attention to all the major car shows, news coming on the market and the future of the technologies. The most crucial moment for her career was when she was asked to create a motoring column within TG5. It marked the beginning of her professional path in the world of motors, a path of studies and great satisfaction. “I love this sector and I think that being lucky enough to be able to do the job I love is truly a gift,” she says. “In fact, my passion for cars dates back to my childhood and among my toys was a F40, which I still have,” she confesses. About Italy Italy is a country with the highest number of cars in relation to its inhabitants. It remains the country with the oldest car fleet in Europe, with an average car age of 12-13 years. There are many Italians who put off changing their car due to the uncertainty about which engine to choose. 100% electric cars are still in a precarious position because few people own garages in which they can install their wall boxes and as a consequence the numbers are down. In Rome, for example, the more prominent models are city cars. Lately, hybrids and electric vehicles are more prominent because they allow free access to the historical center. —————— About Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year is the only car awards group in the world comprised exclusively of women motoring journalists. It was created by New Zealand motoring journalist Sandy Myhre in 2009. She is Honorary President while Marta García is Executive President. This unique award aims to recognise the best cars of the year and to give a voice to women in the automotive world. The voting criteria are based on the same principles that guide any driver when choosing a car. The jurors do not select a ‘woman’s car’ because cars are not gender specific. Aspects such as safety, quality, price, design, ease of driving, benefits and environmental footprint, among others, are considered when casting the votes. However, beyond choosing the best cars of the year, our goal is also to give visibility to women in the automotive world and to contribute to making women’s voices heard on all continents because mobility for a woman means access to many personal and professional possibilities. wwcoty.net info@wwcoty.net Supported by