Zenvo Automotive confirms H.R. Owen for UK presence

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Britain’s leading luxury motor dealer group, H.R. Owen, named as sole UK representative for Zenvo Automotive With 90 years of experience, H.R. Owen provides a world-renowned level of customer service in the luxury and sportscar industry Sales to be supported from the company’s flagship multi-marque facility in Hatfield Denmark, 15 April 2025: With the dawn of 2025, Zenvo Automotive entered a pivotal year in the story of Aurora. As the development programme accelerates, the business continues to strengthen its retail presence, with the appointment of H.R. Owen as the UK representative for sales and aftersales. H.R. Owen is Britain’s leading luxury motor dealer group, dealing with the sales and servicing of some of the world’s most sought-after premium car brands for more than 90 years. It continues to focus on customer service in the field of luxury and supercar retail, building a reputation which is now world-renowned. “H.R. Owen has established itself as a leader in the world of performance and exclusive vehicle sales,” explains Jens Sverdrup, Chairman and Chief Commercial Officer, Zenvo Automotive. “Coupled with the highest levels of customer care at every stage – which is a crucial element for us – H.R. Owen are a natural and perfect partner for us moving forwards. “From a driving perspective, Aurora will deliver uncompromised levels of performance, and we are looking to ensure that every stage of its ownership experience reaches these exacting standards. This obviously includes the initial sales process and delivery, but beyond the handover is just as important, delivering a second-to-none aftersales level of care. With H.R. Owen, they have a proven track record of this at every step, and share the vision, and hold the experience and expertise on how Zenvo Automotive will deliver and support Aurora.” H.R. Owen becomes the 11th retail partner for Zenvo Automotive, selected to support what is expected to be a key market for the Danish-built hypercar. As the sole representative for the UK, H.R. Owen will initially work to provide sales support from the company’s flagship multi-marque facility in Hatfield. The global dynamic debut of the new Aurora will take place later this summer, with first production cars expected for delivery later in 2026. Beyond this, the network of H.R. Owen’s service facilities will be fully trained in on the quad turbocharged V12 model, to provide extensive support. “Zenvo Automotive perfectly exemplifies our commitment to representing only the most innovative automotive brands,” commented Ken Choo, Chief Executive Officer, H.R. Owen. “Inspired by the passion and ingenuity of the Chairman and CCO, Jens Sverdrup, the Zenvo team is pioneering exactly the kind of boundary-pushing innovations in the new Aurora hypercar that our clients expect. It’s an honour to welcome Zenvo into our portfolio, bringing these extraordinary Danish hypercars to our clientele for the first time.” ENDS Zenvo media contact:Tim HuttonCommunications DirectorMob: +44 (0)7868 363005Email: t.hutton@zenvoautomotive.com About Zenvo Automotive:Zenvo Automotive is a producer of limited-edition hypercars based in Præstø, Denmark. Founded in 2007, Zenvo was started with the aim of combining the latest technologies and innovation with an analogue feel, offering the driver a true connection and astonishing performance. In 2023, Zenvo revealed the all-new Aurora, a V12 hypercar that will be available in track-focused ‘Agil’ and more classic GT ‘Tur’ model designations. Limited to just a handful of cars per year, Aurora will continue its intense and extensive development throughout 2025, with first deliveries expected late in 2026. Every Zenvo Aurora will be hand-assembled in Denmark, available to collectors and enthusiasts globally, with world-class customer support via a carefully curated retailer network. Social media:Instagram: @ZenvoAutomotiveFacebook: /ZenvoAutomotiveOfficialYouTube: ZenvoAutomotive/videosLinkedIn: /zenvoautomotive

Get Lost: Project Safari – A ground-up reimagining of the Elise S1

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Get Lost launches as a new automotive brand, founded by photographer GFWilliams, and built around the simple pursuit of creating a car that’s fun. Get Lost: Project Safari is a ground-up reimagining of the Elise S1 – combining rally attitude, road trip capability, and bespoke design. Every detail is designed or engineered with quality and intent – from the hydraulic handbrake to the roof scoop – to enhance the character and capability of the entire car. Get Lost: Project Safari is the first vehicle from Get Lost, with customer builds due to start later this year. April 15th, Surrey – Get Lost is proud to unveil Project Safari – the first vehicle from the new automotive design and engineering brand. A bold, ground-up reinterpretation of the iconic Elise S1, Project Safari blends rally-inspired capability, road trip practicality, and design-led innovation into a single, uncompromising package. Founded by renowned automotive photographer GFWilliams, Get Lost is the result of over a decade immersed in the world’s most exceptional cars. That industry experience shaped a vision: a car that delivers emotional connection through design, engineering, and a relentless pursuit of fun. Bringing that vision to life is a passionate, multidisciplinary team drawn from motorsport, design studios, and fabrication. Together, they’ve created something that not only breaks the rules, but makes you wonder why they were there in the first place. The Design:Get Lost: Project Safari began with a deep study of the original car’s form and function – not to overwrite what made it special, but to reimagine it without constraints. “The idea of taking an Elise off-road might sound ridiculous, and that’s exactly why we leaned into it,” says George Williams, founder of Get Lost. “That one silly idea gave us real creative freedom. Every element was considered from the ground up, not just to look good in isolation, but to enhance the character and capability of the entire car.” Get Lost: Project Safari contrasts the Elise’s fluid curves with sharp, deliberate design choices. Highlights include a custom roof scoop, bespoke rectangular headlights, and a completely redesigned interior using the highest quality materials – all contributing to a new identity while respecting the car’s roots. The Build:“It wasn’t enough for the car to look good – it had to be brilliant to drive too.” said George. Get Lost: Project Safari runs all-terrain tyres, as well as a completely bespoke suspension system, offering increased ride height and width while refining the body control to inspire confidence to always push on. A new powertrain also delivers strong, reliable performance, while key functional upgrades – including a limited-slip differential, and a hydraulic handbrake – contribute to the car’s uniquely playful character. The result? A car designed in form and function for fun adventures. “This is not a modified Elise, it’s our interpretation of what the platform had to offer. Everything has been considered – from the design to the drive – all in the pursuit of creating something that’s fun,” says George Williams. “If you get it, you get us. If not? Get Lost.” Get Lost: Project Safari is the first vehicle from Get Lost, with customer builds due to start later this year. Get Lost is now welcoming letters of interest from customers, collaborators, and anyone who sees themselves in this vision. Ends For editorial images, click here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Y9TLYYEftItJ17-P_LXlvyNBoNwxgvXG?usp=sharing For further information, please contact:Tilly WilliamsMarketing & PRinfo@getlostautomotive.com Website: https://www.getlostautomotive.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getlost.automotive

OMODA E5 – zero-emission, zero downpayment, zero percent finance offers now available

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. The E5 gives you more, but extra costs aren’t one of them OMODA E5 takes the brand’s ‘Value. Every. Thing.’ mentality to a new level with £0 downpayment and 0% APR* finance deals now live Capable of 257 miles EV range, 28-minute fast DC charging (30-80%), the OMODA E5 comes with five seats and the latest in technology and safety Available on the OMODA E5 until 30 June 2025*, drivers are urged to check out the deals available through the brand’s 73-strong UK dealer network Be it the low starting price, the wealth of standard equipment, or class-leading battery management, the OMODA E5 is a benchmark in value for money OMODA will be showcasing the E5 on its Everything Electric LONDON stand from tomorrow until 18 April and offering test drives subject to availability London, 15 April 2025 – OMODA is making the move to electric driving easier – and more affordable – than ever, with the launch of game-changing finance offers on its first all-electric model, the OMODA E5. Right now, customers can get behind the wheel of this leading EV with £0 deposit and 0% APR* finance, making the OMODA E5 one of the most value-oriented electric mid-size SUVs on the market today. And the impact has been immediate. Since the E5 arrived in the UK in September 2024, nearly 2,000 cars have already hit the road – but it’s the introduction of these offers that will further propel the model’s popularity. With a surge in enquiries and orders, OMODA’s nationwide dealer network of 73-and-counting retailers is seeing unprecedented interest from both private buyers and fleet customers. The timing couldn’t be better. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), March 2025 marked the UK’s best-ever month for electric vehicle registrations, with 69,313 EVs sold – a clear signal that electric mobility is going mainstream. OMODA’s latest offers, available until 30 June, ensure the E5 is front and centre as more drivers make the switch. Victor Zhang, UK Country Director OMODA UK commented: “Having successfully established itself in the UK market since September last year, the OMODA E5 is now proving a very popular choice for drivers across the board. Customers recognise the blend of high quality, extensive specification and value for money that the car represents, and early monitoring shows that they are keen to take advantage of this. With the favourable finance terms being offered with the OMODA E5, we expect more people to start their OMODA journey with our all-electric model.” Using the latest technology, the OMODA E5 comes fitted with a 61kWh battery with blade cell design for improved safety. Due to class-leading battery management, 99% of the battery is usable at all times. Combined with the low coefficient of drag, the OMODA E5 uses just 15.5kWh/100km. Available now from OMODA&JAECOO’s growing UK dealer network, the fully-electric E5 is priced from £33,065 – and with finance offers this strong, demand is charging ahead. OMODA will be showcasing the E5 on its stand at the upcoming Everything Electric LONDON show at the ExCeL from tomorrow, 16 April to 18 April inclusive. Not only will the brand have static displays but also offer test drives subject to availability and checks. *Terms and Conditions. Representative 0.0% APR, on OMODA E5 – Comfort 61kWh. Representative Example based on 6,000 miles per annum. Credit available subject to status. UK residents 18+. Guarantees may be required. This offer is available to Retail customers only and is not available in conjunction with any other offers unless specified. Images shown for illustration purposes. With Personal Contract Purchase, once you have paid all of your regular monthly repayments you can either 1) Pay the Optional Final Repayment and own the car. 2) Part exchange the car for a new one (subject to settlement of your existing agreement, new agreements are subject to status). 3) Return the car to Creation without paying the optional final repayment. Providing you’ve not exceeded the maximum agreed mileage and the car is in good condition (fair wear and tear accepted) you will have nothing further to pay. If the vehicle has exceeded the maximum agreed mileage then a charge of 8.0p+ VAT per excess mile applies. Orders must be placed and accepted by 30th June 2025. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. OMODA & JAECOO UK is an Appointed Representative of Automotive Compliance Ltd, who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA No 497010). Automotive Compliance Ltd’s permissions as a Principal Firm allows OMODA & JAECOO UK to act as a credit broker, not as a lender, for the introduction to a limited number of lenders and to act as an agent on behalf of the insurer for insurance distribution activities only. We are a credit broker and not a lender. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders and their finance products. We are not an independent financial advisor and we act as their agent for this introduction. We may advise you on the products, subject to your personal circumstances, though you are not obliged to take our advice or recommendation. We do not charge you a fee for our services. Whichever lender we introduce you to, we will typically receive commission from them (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow). For your reassurance, all of the lenders we work with could pay commission at different rates, but the commission we receive does not influence the interest rate you will pay. Our aim is to secure finance for you at the lowest interest rate you are eligible for from our panel of lenders. If you ask us what the amount of commission is, we will tell you in good time before the Finance agreement is executed. All finance applications are subject to status, terms and conditions apply. -ENDS- About OMODA&JAECOO OMODA is committed to design, intelligence and sustainable responsibility, bringing cutting-edge design and futuristic technology to young Generation Z users, offering them stylish vehicles ahead…

Humanity, warmth, precision – BMW HypersonX creates unique soundscape for the Neue Klasse

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. BMW Group Sound Design Studio develops all-new sound concept for the next generation of BMW vehicles slated for launch from 2025 BMW Operating System X enables drive sounds tailored extremely precisely to the driving situation at hand in Personal Mode and Sport Mode Immersive spectrum of audio effects augments the emotionally engaging, holistic user experience provided by the new BMW iDrive Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market. Munich. As it pulls back the curtain on a new era in 2025, fuelled by the all-electric Neue Klasse models, BMW is creating a holistic driving and user experience that breaks genuinely new ground. One of the elements of the far-reaching BMW Panoramic iDrive concept is the new HypersonX soundscape. Developed by the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, it comprises 43 sound signals and special driving sounds for Personal Mode and Sport Mode. The multi-dimensional spectrum adapts the sounds precisely to the driving situation at hand and, in so doing, creates an emotional interaction between the driver and their vehicle. This new stage in the evolution of the automotive sound experience has been made possible by the technological advances in hardware and software brought by the Neue Klasse. The revolutionary BMW Operating System X and a newly developed control unit pave the way for an innovative audio architecture. This allows the overall experience offered by the Neue Klasse to be perfected at an acoustic level, as well as in terms of vehicle character, driving experience and functional range. A new dimension in drive sounds: distinctive and precisely honed.“The unique sound spectrum of HypersonX plays a major role in giving a Neue Klasse model its own, highly distinctive character acoustically. Through our focus on precision, warmth and lightness, we can create a direct emotional connection between the driver and their vehicle,” emphasises Renzo Vitale, Creative Director of Sound Design BMW Group. In both Personal Mode and Sport Mode, the drive sounds focus on the essentials and are inspired by tones from nature and structures from the worlds of art and science. HypersonX has fewer basic notes than the sound experience previously employed. But at the same time, the acoustic spectrum has grown to include a new dimensional level. This gives the sound more “colour”, depth and precision, and it embodies more than ever the pleasure of driving for which BMW is renowned. One of the main elements underpinning this capability is the audio control unit developed for the Neue Klasse, which enables a significant expansion of the dynamic range. Added to which, the spatial modulation of the drive sound achievable in the Neue Klasse ensures that the vehicle occupants are thoroughly immersed in the soundscape generated by HypersonX. Under acceleration, for example, the vehicle gives the impression of moving between different three-dimensional layers of sound, thus transporting the feeling of speed and BMW-typical driving dynamics authentically into the cabin. Humanity is a central design element of the welcome sound.As well as intelligent reduction to the essential elements, the human aspect played an important role in the development of the soundscape for the Neue Klasse. The middle and lower frequency ranges of the BMW HypersonX sound spectrum have been brought to the fore to create a well-balanced acoustic ambience. In conjunction with intuitive operation, precisely adjusted light effects and homely interior design, this gives those on board a fine sense of wellbeing. A choir made up of BMW Group Design Studio employees brings voice – in their respective native languages – to moments of driving joy, infusing the welcome sound with a particularly empathetic flavour. Carefully isolated elements of these recordings enhance the overall composition of the welcome sound to excellent effect and treat the driver to moments of joy and human warmth. BMW HypersonX gives the sounds for the Neue Klasse an expressive and distinctive, but also understated and sensitive feel. To this end, more than nine million sound instances based on BMW’s sound DNA were generated using a new algorithm. At the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, these were then filtered into a brand-typical essence that in turn generates a cohesive and multi-dimensional acoustic experience. The result is a sound that creates an emotional connection between human and vehicle in all driving situations and brings a positive, congenial and inviting aura to the acoustic presence of the Neue Klasse. In the event of enquiries please contact:Corporate CommunicationsLaura-Marie Kremser, Spokesperson BMW Group DesignTelephone: +49-89-382-98114E-mail: laura-marie.kremser@bmwgroup.com Almut Stollberg, Head of Communication Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital CarTelephone: +49-89-382-96543E-mail: Almut.Stollberg@bmw.de Internet: www.press.bmwgroup.comE-mail: presse@bmw.de THE BMW GROUPWith its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. In 2024, the BMW Group sold 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees. The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life. www.bmwgroup.comLinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroupInstagram https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroupFacebook https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroupX https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

Farizon SV loads up for Everything Electric London

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. All-new born-electric Farizon SV will be presented at Everything Electric London Farizon SV will be showcased in the Live EV Arena and in the Commercial Vehicle Zone Everything Electric London takes place from 16-18 April at Excel London London, 15 April 2025: Ahead of its full launch later this month, the born-electric Farizon SV will be previewed at Everything Electric London from 16 – 18 April at Excel London. The SV will be centre stage in the Live EV Arena on each of the event’s three days, when electric van expert, Paul Kirby, and Fully Charged presenter, Imogen Bhogal, will conduct a live review of the new benchmark large van. In parallel, visitors to the show can get a closer look of the van and its impressive load space in the Commercial Vehicles Zone throughout the show. Featuring a host of world-first technologies, the Farizon SV delivers a compelling blend of cargo-carrying practicality, impressive real-world efficiency and performance, and optimum driver comfort and convenience. An advanced drive-by-wire platform offers significant packaging advantages, an innovative payload monitoring system uses ride-height sensors to calibrate the vehicle’s weight, and a 360° Surround View camera ensures users can manoeuvre and park the van with ease. Crucially, the Farizon SV includes as standard a high level of specification and a large number of features that are additional cost options on competitors’ vans, including automatic headlights with Intelligent High Beam Control, automatic wipers, heated and ventilated seats for driver and passenger, and a heated windscreen. The SV has also earned the highest Platinum Euro NCAP safety rating. Five different size combinations will provide UK buyers with generous levels of cabin and cargo space. Available in L1 H1, L1 H2, L2 H2, L2 H3 and L3 H3 configurations, every model benefits from an extra-low loading height of just 550 mm. The Farizon SV line-up includes the option of 67 kWh, 83 kWh or 106 kWh batteries. Prices start from £45,000 OTR (plus VAT) and order books are open, with first deliveries planned for May. The Farizon SV will officially launch at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC (29 April – 1 May). Founded in 2016, Farizon is the commercial vehicle division of Geely, China’s largest private vehicle manufacturer. The Farizon SV is being introduced to the UK by Jameel Motors UK, a London-based automotive distribution business and part of Jameel Motors. –ENDS– Media contacts:Jamie Fretwell: +44 7775 006859 / FretwellJ@jameelmotors.co.ukMolly Prout: +44 7874 856311 / farizon@pfpr.com About Jameel MotorsJameel Motors is a leading provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands with international operations in Türkiye, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Japan, China, Monaco; and represents some of the world’s most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands, including Toyota, Lexus, BYD, GAC Motor, MG Motor and Hino. Jameel Motors’ deep market knowledge as an independent international distributor enables its OEM partners to grow closer to their customers, driving both market share and sustainable growth with high customer satisfaction and loyalty. For more information, please visit jameelmotors.com About FarizonFarizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Geely Holding Group. With the support of Geely Holding Group’s Central Research Institute, Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group has founded China’s largest new energy commercial vehicle research institute. It is responsible for the R&D of a new generation of green and intelligent commercial vehicle products based on passenger vehicle technology. It has formed two core technology routes of “Methanol-Hydrogen + Electric”. Farizon has become China’s first commercial vehicle brand to offer a full range of new energy product. Farizon is committed to becoming a comprehensive intelligent and green transportation technology service provider. Farizon has doubled its Chinese market share for three consecutive years, with a product market share exceeding 20%, continuously consolidating its leading position in the new energy commercial vehicle industry. This year, Farizon has reached the milestone of 300,000 unit sales, becoming the first new energy commercial vehicle brand who ever achieved this goals. For more information regarding Zhejiang Geely Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group please refer to the official website at https://global.geelycv.com/

No fool Monty! Stripping back to the essentials with Dacia

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Ready for every adventure, broadcaster and marine biologist Monty Halls will use a Dacia Duster Extreme mild hybrid 130 4×4 for everything from the everyday school run to off-road support in his upcoming Celtic Dagger Expedition Don’t be fooled – Duster is not ‘just’ another SUV, as rugged styling and option of 4×4 transmission with multiple off-road modes, Hill Descent Control and 217mm of ground clearance takes the class-leading off-road capabilities of the latest duster to new heights Dacia’s philosophy of stripping back to the essentials means Duster has a practical but well-equipped interior, now with more sustainable materials and hybrid powertrains, plus the best value for money in its segment Duster once again proves it’s perfect for those embarking on everything from epic expeditions to life’s everyday adventures The rugged Dacia Duster proves itself as the perfect companion for Monty Halls, the TV adventurer, expedition leader and former Royal Marine, as he strips back to the essentials and tackles not just his most extreme off-road expedition to date, but also daily life in the wilds of his home in south Devon. Monty’s most notable expeditions include leading a multi-national team to the discovery of a sunken city off the Indian coast, four expeditions to Southern Africa, three to Malawi to explore the ecosystem of the lake and investigate poaching activity, and one to South Africa to dive looking for evidence of prehistoric settlements in cave systems off the Cape. For his work, he was awarded the Bish Medal for services to exploration by the Scientific Exploration Society. Now, Monty, no fool when it comes to conquering challenging terrain has singled out the Dacia Duster as his everyday adventure companion. Taking to the roads for the school run through to his upcoming Celtic Dagger Expedition, the Duster Extreme mild hybrid 130 4×4 is the ideal choice. As part of the Celtic Dagger Expedition – an archaeological marine mission on the West Coast of Scotland – Monty and a team of divers will explore the coves, beaches, and hills where specialised military training took place in the 1940s. Significantly, the team who will take an additional Duster for the journey, will be the first ever to dive the shallow seas where the first amphibious landings were practised. The Duster will also be used to support his Big Blue Bag project, which Monty launched in 2024, to encourage people of all ages and experience levels to collect essential data on marine health on British shores. The Duster’s 217mm of ground clearance and tougher exterior design supports its credentials as the ultimate ‘go-anywhere’ vehicle – ideal for daily family commitments and for anyone from the beginner adventurer through to experts like Monty. It’s class-leading off-road abilities are enhanced with 4×4 transmission combined with Hill Descent Control, plus the latest technology to maximise safety and comfort. Monty Halls commented: “As with every expedition, never losing sight of the essentials is key to its success. Duster ticks all the boxes to conquer everything from the school run to rough terrain and any challenge we face. Whether that’s day-to-day life, planning, or tackling the wild and remote Highland landscape, Duster will be by my side.” ENDS ABOUT DACIA:Born in 1968, then relaunched by Renault Group from 2004 across Europe and Mediterranean countries, Dacia has always offered the best value for money cars by constantly redefining the essentials. As a game-changer, Dacia proposes simple, multi-purpose, reliable cars in tune with customers’ lifestyles. Dacia models have become a reference on the market, including Sandero, the best-selling retail car in Europe each year since 2017 and the best-selling car in Europe in 2024, full stop; Duster, the best-selling SUV to European private customers since 2018 and the 2nd most sold car to customers in 2024; Jogger, the C-segment versatile family car; Spring, the UK’s most affordable electric car; and Bigster, offering buyers of larger, family-friendly cars the robust, well-equipped, great value for money that they have been longing for. Present in 44 countries, Dacia has sold more than 9 million vehicles since 2004. Dacia launched in the UK in January 2013 and enjoyed the most successful start ever for a new car brand in the UK. More than 260,000 Dacia vehicles have been sold in the UK to date. For further information please visit www.press.dacia.co.uk or @DaciaUKPress or contact: Charlie RoperDacia PR & Communications Managercharlie.roper@dacia.com Jim HolderRenault Group UK Communications Directorjim.holder@renault.co.uk

Auto Trader launches ‘New Car Offers’ functionality to help retailers accelerate sales

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Retailers can now attach FCA-compliant finance offers to new car stock and display monthly prices on Auto Trader listings New functionality offers greater transparency on price for consumers along with more confidence on affordability Hassle free solution will enable retailers to save more time and sell stock faster as Auto Trader reports strong start to 2025 for the new car market which is up 6% year to date 14th April 2025, London – Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive marketplace, has announced ‘New Car Offers’, a new functionality that aims to boost lead conversions and enable partners to display transparent new car finance offers on their Auto Trader adverts. Retailers will now be able to display a finance offer for new cars on the platform. With 9 in 10 buyers using finance to access a new car, displaying clear monthly payments directly onto listings will help to build trust, attract high-intent shoppers, and convert higher quality leads amongst those buyers. ‘New Car Offers’ will also help retailers save time and sell new car stock more quickly as 84% of consumers stated that being able to easily compare cars and finance offers is key to their car purchasing decision making. With this integrated tool, retailers can provide a single FCA-compliant finance example, providing clarity upfront for consumers. As a result, the new functionality will cut down back-and-forth finance quotes and help customers make quicker decisions with a clear representative finance example, so retailers can sell their stock faster. The seamless technical integration makes it simple to attach finance offers to new car stock, ensuring retailers can easily capitalise on increased demand with transparent, compliant pricing. The new solution comes as Auto Trader recently reported that visits to its new car platform increased 11% year-on-year last month and the new car market up 6% year to date. With consumer demand for new cars showing positive signs and the UK’s largest automotive marketplace continuing to help influence new car sales for many partners with the help of its recent Found AT marketing campaign investment, the introduction of ‘New Car Offers’ is another key step for retailers to improve performance further. Bex Kennett, New Car Performance Director at Auto Trader, commented: ‘We’re delighted to announce New Car Offers, which will be a powerful and seamless addition to our new car package. It’s become more important than ever that consumers are given both transparency and confidence when purchasing a brand new vehicle and this aims to do exactly that. “By displaying monthly costs upfront, retailers will be able to provide greater pricing clarity, helping consumers understand affordability at a glance, whilst ensuring that better quality leads are coming through to them, maximising their sales potential. We’re committed to enhancing the new car experience for both retailers and buyers and look forward to working with our partners over the coming weeks to make the new functionality a real success for all.” Mark Busby​​​​, Director of Commercial Operations at Hendy Group commented: “We’re excited to start displaying new car finance offers on our New Vehicle adverts on Auto Trader. We want to convert browsers to buyers and showing them upfront exactly what deposit contributions they’ll receive from the OEM means they’ll know the monthly costs of how much deposit is required – providing greater price transparency from the start of their journey and helping us to stand out in a competitive marketplace.” Craig Carter, Brand Director at D.M. Keith commented, “Having the ability to now add clear finance offers to our new car adverts will ensure that prospective buyers feel more informed and confident when making a purchase with us. Not only this but the solution will be a real game changer for us as it will allow us to transact with consumers quicker than before, thus enabling us to save much needed time so we can focus our attention on other key tasks.” Ends About Auto TraderAuto Trader Group plc is the UK’s largest automotive marketplace. It listed on the London Stock Exchange in March 2015 and is a member of the FTSE 100 Index. Auto Trader’s purpose is Driving Change Together. Responsibly. Auto Trader is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture, it aims to build stronger partnerships with its customers and use its voice and influence to drive more environmentally friendly vehicle choices. With the largest number of car buyers and the largest choice of trusted stock, Auto Trader’s marketplace sits at the heart of the UK car buying process. That marketplace is built on an industry-leading technology and data platform, which is increasingly used across the automotive industry. Auto Trader is continuing to bring more of the car buying journey online, creating an improved buying experience, whilst enabling all its retailer partners to sell vehicles online. Auto Trader publishes a monthly used car Retail Price Index which is based on pricing analysis of circa 800,000 unique vehicles. The same data that powers the Index is used by the Office for National Statistics to make the UK’s official measures of inflation more robust, as well as the Bank of England to feed the broader UK economic indicators. For more information, please visit: https://plc.autotrader.co.uk/

Kia Soundscapes leverages AI to transform landscapes into music for visually impaired passengers

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Kia Europe conducted an AI-driven experiment that converted landscapes into music Two documentary films capture the reaction of two visually impaired passengers experiencing a road trip through sound The project demonstrates Kia’s commitment to making inspiration accessible to everyone Kia Europe, in collaboration with marketing agency INNOCEAN Europe, developed Kia Soundscapes, an artistic experiment that translates landscapes into symphonic compositions. Through this project, visually impaired individuals were able to experience the beauty of road trips in a groundbreaking way. The science behind the experimentResearch shows that music activates the visual cortex in blind individuals. This area of the brain is typically reserved for sight and perception. Inspired by this, Kia Soundscapes uses advanced AI technology to convert visual inputs from a car’s sensors and cameras into musical compositions. “At Kia, we believe movement inspires ideas, so we wanted to give visually impaired passengers the opportunity to experience the world differently,” commented David Hilbert, Marketing Director at Kia Europe. “With Kia Soundscapes, we are exploring how technology can tear down barriers and help us create a more inclusive and accessible world.” From vision to soundFilmed outside of Santiago, Chile, Kia captured images of the landscape using the car’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and paired the visual input, such as trees, mountains, and speed, with corresponding musical elements. AI then created a dynamic soundtrack that evolved with the changing scenery. For example, trees and shrubbery were translated into soft woodwind instruments, mountains were turned into deep, resonant tones, and vehicle speed changed the tempo and tone of the composition. The experiment culminated in two short documentary films, premiering in April. On top of the documentaries, Kia plans to release the original compositions on its website. While Kia Soundscapes is an artistic experiment and not a commercial feature, it marks the company’s first use of AI in a project of this nature. Visit the dedicated landing page for more details. Ends About Kia EuropeKia Europe is the European sales and manufacturing division of Kia Corporation – a global mobility brand that is creating innovative, pioneering, and leading sustainable mobility solutions for consumers, communities, and societies around the world. As a Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider, Kia is spearheading the popularization of electrified and battery-electric vehicles and developing a growing range of mobility services, encouraging people around the world to explore the best ways of getting around. Kia Europe, headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, employs in total over 5,500 employees from 40 nationalities in 39 markets across Europe and the Caucasus. It also oversees European production at the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Zilina, Slovakia. Kia’s innovative products continue to attract great acclaim, notably the EV6 battery electric vehicle becoming the first Korean car to be named European Car of the Year in 2022. Further information can be found here: www.press.kia.com About InnoceanINNOCEAN, launched in 2005 as the marketing vanguard for Hyundai Motor Group, evolved rapidly into a true global marketing communications company, with almost 3,300 employees and a worldwide network consisting of 22 overseas operations. Its European network, with almost 400 employees from 30+ nationalities, builds bespoke international teams in proximity to clients across its offices in Frankfurt am Main (also serving as the regional HQ), London, Paris, Madrid, Milan, Moscow and Istanbul. The agency has accelerated its expansion since the set-up of a European Creative Hub in Berlin. In 2018, it hired Gabriel Mattar and Ricardo Wolff as European COO and ECD respectively, to lead a tight-knit, award-winning international creative team based at the Hackescher Markt. Further information can be found here: www.innocean.eu | www.innoceanberlin.com Kia UK PR contact detailsFor further information on Kia please visit www.kiapressoffice.com or contact: Daniel SaylesHead of Press & Public Relations E: dsayles@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832 073 M: 07747 149 149 Tom RichardsPress Relations Manager E: trichards@kia.co.ukM: 07500 799 599 Milissa OrdoñaSenior Events Coordinator E: mordona@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832 069 M: 07753 520 911 Jonathan MuskSenior Corporate Communications Officer E: jmusk@kia.co.ukM: 07936 955 225 Chloe FarmerSenior Press Fleet Coordinator E: cfarmer@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832071 M: 07917 218 522 Will ReesSenior Press Officer E: wrees@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832079 M: 07795 011 475 Georgia BrownEvents Coordinator E: gbrown@kia.co.ukM: 07765 897 933 Rachel WychePress Office Assistant E: rwyche@kia.co.ukM: 07557 671 449 Follow Kia on Instagram @KiaUKPRFollow Kia at facebook.com/KiaUK Watch Kia at youtube.com/KiaUK

Aston Martin Valkyrie achieves best race finish so far in IMSA Weathertech SportsCar Championship at Long Beach

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Aston Martin Valkyrie takes best finish to date at the world-famous Grand Prix of Long Beach on third-ever start Roman De Angelis and Ross Gunn finish eighth to make it back-to-back top 10 finishes for the British hypercar in IMSA Valkyrie is the only hypercar to contest the world’s two premier sportscar series, IMSA and the FIA World Endurance Championship, in 2025 The Aston Martin THOR Team build on encouraging Sebring debut as Valkyrie continues preparations for Le Mans 24 Hours debut in June 14 April, 2025, Long Beach, USA: The spectacular new Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar scored both its best race finish (and qualifying result) with a strong weekend-long performance at the world-renowned Grand Prix of Long Beach, the latest round of the IMSA Weathertech SportsCar Championship (IMSA), last weekend. Hot on the heels of a highly-respectable ninth-place result at the 12 Hours of Sebring last month – the first points finish of any car built to hypercar regulations in the history of IMSA competition – the British ultra-luxury high performance brand’s all-new Valkyrie went one better by finishing eighth after a competitive showing across the event. Aston Martin THOR Team and its drivers Ross Gunn (GBR) – an IMSA GTD Pro class winner at Long Beach – and Roman De Angelis (CDN), the 2022 IMSA GTD champion, made gains in Friday practice and then achieved a best-ever 11th place in qualifying, just a tenth of a second shy of the top 10, on what was only Valkyrie’s third start and its second in IMSA’s GTP division. But a faultless and reliable run through the 100-minute race – the shortest on the IMSA calendar – was rewarded with an eighth-place finish. The first ‘Le Mans Hypercar’ (LMH) to be produced by Aston Martin, Valkyrie is the only car in IMSA’s premier GTP category derived from a road-legal hypercar. The British contender is also the first LMH car of any kind to compete in IMSA, and the only one contesting both IMSA and the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) simultaneously, having made its debut in the Qatar 1812km in February. Valkyrie’s US debut season, masterminded by the works Aston Martin THOR team at Sebring, has already produced an encouraging pair of top-10 finishes on circuits recognised as some of the world’s most demanding. Developed from the Valkyrie production car by Aston Martin and THOR, the competition version blends a race-optimised carbon fibre chassis with a modified 6.5-litre V12 powerplant that revs to 11,000rpm and produces over 1000bhp in standard form, but adheres to a strict 500kw (680bhp) power limit as per hypercar regulations. Ross Gunn, driver #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie: “I’m super-happy with our eighth-place finish at Long Beach. It was a difficult Friday with a couple of issues that we had to overcome, but at this stage of the programme, that’s completely normal. Everybody did a great job figuring out and fixing what had arisen. The main positive is that we improved throughout the weekend. We improved on our last race result at Sebring, kept it clean and completed another race. We’ve ticked a lot more boxes with Valkyrie and I’m very happy.” Roman De Angelis, driver #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie: “It was a tough race, but we kept the car clean. We had a tricky start to the weekend with some issues in practice and I only had about 10 laps before the race, so all in all I’m happy that the car is in one piece and that the race was clean. I’m excited to see what Laguna Seca brings next time out.” Ian James, Team Principal, Aston Martin THOR Team: “It was a very positive weekend for Valkyrie. The team had a great strategy. We were right with some of the other cars at the end so to be mixing with any of the other manufacturers at this point makes us proud. There is still lots to learn from each weekend, but it was a step forward for our performance and for the Valkyrie programme as a whole, and it will be even better come Laguna Seca.” Adam Carter, Aston Martin Head of Endurance Motorsport: “Long Beach posed a complex test for Valkyrie; a street track with very different technical challenges to those experienced at Sebring on its first appearance in IMSA or in Qatar for its global race debut in the FIA WEC. Despite this, it came through with flying colours as Aston Martin Team THOR scored the car’s best results to date. We continue to make enormous progress every time Valkyrie goes on track and this latest achievement will give us all added determination to keep moving forwards and striving for more.” Vantage GT3 on podium as 2025 GT World Challenge Europe begins at Paul Ricard Verstappen.com Racing second in class in GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup at Paul Ricard on debut with Vantage GT3 Aston Martin works drivers charge through to finish in top five for Comtoyou Racing in six-hour ‘into the night’ race in France The Heart of Racing qualify third on streets of Long Beach in IMSA GTD D’station Racing begin Super GT GT300 championship challenge with front-row start at Okayama The latest iteration of Aston Martin’s most successful racing car – the Vantage GT3 – scored another podium finish last weekend as the GT World Challenge Europe Powered by AWS began at Circuit Paul Ricard, France. The 2Seas Motorsport-run Verstappenracing.com Vantage was a contender for honours in the Gold Cup category across the weekend; setting the fastest time overall in opening practice and running strongly throughout the six-hour race. Having gradually moved up from fourth place in the Gold Cup order, driver Harry King (GBR) chased down the #31 car’s race-long rival with 20 minutes left to snatch second place for himself and co-drivers Thierry Vermeulen (NED) and Chris Lulham (GBR). The best overall Vantage finisher was the Pro-class entry from Comtoyou Racing featuring Aston Martin works drivers Marco Sørensen (DEN), Nicki Thiim (DEN)…

Dealers vote Kia the best brand for the fifth consecutive time

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Dealers have rated Kia the number one brand in the latest NFDA Winter 2025 Dealer Attitude Survey Fifth consecutive win for Kia in the NFDA’s industry survey Kia ranked top in every single electric vehicle question Top-three ranking in the past 18 successive NFDA surveys Overall manufacturer rating of 9.3 out of 10 Kia ranked top in 29 of 56 questions The nation’s car dealers have voted Kia as the top brand for the fifth consecutive time in the latest National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) Winter 2025 Dealer Attitude Survey (DAS). The announcement adds to Kia’s historic success for brand and dealer satisfaction, now growing to five wins in a row and a top-three ranking in each of the past 18 successive NFDA surveys. Best in classIn the latest survey, Kia scored 9.3 out of 10 overall, matching the previous survey’s results and demonstrating consistency in dealer satisfaction. This compares to the average overall score across all brands of 7.2 out of 10. Kia’s result is amplified by a high response rate of 76% (142) of Kia’s 188-strong UK dealer network, which compares to the industry’s 61.3% average response rate across all 31 UK franchised networks. Kia scored the top rating across 29 of the 56 questions posed to dealers in the survey. Of particular note, Kia scored highest of any brand across all six of the electric vehicle-focused questions. In addition, Kia scored highly across all other metrics, from used cars to training and its apprenticeship programme. Kia was rated the top brand for frequency of introduction of new models. Kia is launching the EV4 and EV5 fully electric models later this year, along with new versions of the family-favourite SUV, the Kia Sportage, and powerful and sporty EV6 GT. Additionally, 2025 sees Kia launch a brand new PBV commercial vehicle business with the introduction of its first dedicated fully electric PBV, the PV5, which includes both van and passenger versions, and unique factory-built customisation options. Dealerships were surveyed between 27 January to 28 February for the Winter 2025 DAS. Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), said: “The Winter 2025 NFDA Dealer Attitude offers an in-depth look at the evolving relationship between manufacturers and franchised dealerships, shedding light on both advancements and persistent challenges. “NFDA congratulates Kia, who has come top in the survey for what is now 5 editions in a row on the overall manufacturer rating with an impressive score of 9.3, the same score from the last edition.” Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK, said: “This is a truly exceptional result and one we couldn’t be prouder to achieve. We have said that dealers are at the core of our business, so it’s particularly noteworthy that they agree and have now rated Kia the best brand for the fifth consecutive NFDA survey. “With numerous challenges facing our industry, we are incredibly proud of our dealer partners whose proactive approach has ensured Kia continues to lead the industry. Together, we have just achieved a record-breaking Q1 and best-ever month in March, with our latest fully electric model, the Kia EV3, becoming the UK’s best-selling retail-market EV in Q1. “We would like to express a heartfelt thank you to all our dealer partners for their commitment to Kia and the hard work they put into the brand’s success every day.” Leaders in electrificationKia has gone from strength-to-strength in the UK, having achieved its best quarter and month on record, with almost 20,000 (19,993) new car sales in March and 35,063 sales over Q1 2025. Kia is currently the third best-selling car brand in the UK with a large market share of 6.0%, year-to-date. A leader in electrification, every second Kia sold is an eco model (BEV, PHEV, HEV), while Kia offers one of the broadest model ranges in the industry. Since 2020 when Kia launched its ‘Plan S’ global business strategy, Kia has grown its fully electric model line-up to now include the EV3, EV6 and EV9, with the EV4 and EV5 due for launch soon. Kia’s current latest fully electric model, the EV3, is the UK’s best-selling EV within the retail market in Q1 as well as the 2025 UK Car of the Year – following in the EV9’s footsteps as both World Car of the Year and UK Car of the Year 2024. NFDAThe National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK. There are more than 4,500 franchise outlets in the UK and over 600,000 people working in the automotive retail sector. NFDA’s Dealer Attitude Survey (DAS) is a twice-yearly survey of the relationship between franchised dealerships and manufacturers throughout the UK and remains a critical barometer in understanding the intricate dynamics between those franchised dealerships and their respective manufacturers. Ends Kia UK PR contact detailsFor further information on Kia please visit www.kiapressoffice.com or contact: Daniel SaylesHead of Press & Public Relations E: dsayles@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832 073 M: 07747 149 149 Tom RichardsPress Relations Manager E: trichards@kia.co.ukM: 07500 799 599 Milissa OrdoñaSenior Events Coordinator E: mordona@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832 069 M: 07753 520 911 Jonathan MuskSenior Corporate Communications Officer E: jmusk@kia.co.ukM: 07936 955 225 Chloe FarmerSenior Press Fleet Coordinator E: cfarmer@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832071 M: 07917 218 522 Will ReesSenior Press Officer E: wrees@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832079 M: 07795 011 475 Georgia BrownEvents Coordinator E: gbrown@kia.co.ukM: 07765 897 933 Rachel WychePress Office Assistant E: rwyche@kia.co.ukM: 07557 671 449 Follow Kia on Instagram @KiaUKPR Follow Kia at facebook.com/KiaUK Watch Kia at youtube.com/KiaUK