New Fabia, Scala and Kamiq Edition models ramp up value for money

Fabia, Scala and Kamiq ranges benefit from significant specification boost Added customer value of up to £1,900 as Škoda upgrades equipment levels New Fabia range features four trim grades: SE Edition, Design Edition, SE L Edition and Monte Carlo Edition New Scala and Kamiq range feature three trim grades: SE Edition, SE L Edition and Monte Carlo Edition Scala and Kamiq models now come with 9.2-inch Navigation display and 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit as standard All new Edition models open for order on 19 September Milton Keynes, 12 September 2024. Škoda is ramping up the value on its award-winning Fabia, Scala and Kamiq models with all versions set to receive a significant boost in standard equipment. To celebrate the ongoing success of the brand’s most compact models, Škoda is rewarding buyers with the introduction of new Edition models, which deliver even greater value for money. Fabia Edition modelsThe updated Fabia range will consist of four trim grades: SE Edition, Design Edition, SE L Edition and Monte Carlo Edition. All four feature enhanced specification that add significantly higher levels of standard equipment. For example, the new SE Edition comes with Keyless start/stop, Cruise control, dual-zone climate control and electric rear windows as standard. The new Design Edition comes with metallic paint, corner front fog lights, electric folding door mirrors, dual-zone climate control, rain assist and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. This is in addition to the specification of the Fabia Colour Edition, which it replaces. Fabia SE L Edition models replace the previous SE L model and adds a rear-view camera, corner fog lights, rain assist and electric folding door mirrors to the standard specification. The range-topping Monte Carlo Edition models get the biggest boost in specification, gaining a 9.2-inch navigation display with three-year care connect and infotainment online subscription, Voice control, full LED headlights and front parking sensors along with a rear view camera. Drive mode select and Keyless entry are also now part of the standard specification. This is in addition to the extra equipment already added to the Fabia SE Edition model. Starting OTR prices for the new Fabia range (+£150 RRP over current trim offering) Fabia SE Edition £19,880 Fabia Design Edition £20,680 Fabia SE L Edition £22,615 Fabia Monte Carlo Edition £23,115 Scala and Kamiq Edition modelsŠkoda’s popular Scala and Kamiq ranges will benefit from a similar specification boost and will also see new Edition models replace existing trim grades. As part of the range update, both Scala and Kamiq line-ups will feature three trim levels: SE Edition, SE L Edition and Monte Carlo Edition, all of which will come with a significant increase in standard equipment. The entry level SE Edition now includes metallic paint, rear-view camera, 10.25-inch Virtual Cockpit, 9.2-inch navigation display with three-year care connect and infotainment online subscription and Voice control. New SE L Edition models build on the generous specification of the previous SE L model, adding metallic paint, heated front seats, rear view camera, front parking sensors, keyless entry and Drive mode select. The new sporting flagship Monte Carlo Edition includes metallic paint, heated three-spoke sports steering wheel, heated front sports seats, adaptive cruise control, wireless phone charging and front parking sensors – all of which were optional on the previous trim grade. Starting OTR prices for the new Scala range (+£150 RRP over current trim offering) Scala SE Edition £22,255 Scala SE L Edition £24,055 Scala Monte Carlo Edition £27,955 Starting OTR prices for the new Kamiq range (+£150 RRP over current trim offering) Kamiq SE Edition £24,190 Kamiq SE L Edition £27,335 Kamiq Monte Carlo Edition £29,435 All new Edition models will be available to order from 19 September, 2024, with first deliveries expected by the end of the year. For more images, videos and other media assets, please visit www.skodamedia.com.

Dual latch MLX92253 sets a new benchmark in DC motor applications

Tessenderlo, Belgium 19 September 2024 – Melexis adds the MLX92253 to its Hall-effect Dual Latch portfolio. This fast sensor offers two independent signal tracks for minimal jitter as well as consistent 90° phase shift regardless of magnet pole pitch. This enables accurate speed & direction ECU calculation as well as easy transfer across multiple platforms. This integrated solution is a cost-effective choice for DC motors & Encoders used in a wide range of embedded applications, including automotive, alternative mobility, consumer and industrial. In mobility applications, directional feedback combined with linear speed, rotational speed or angular position sensing is critical for the fundamental operation and safety of countless systems. This feedback is used in passenger vehicles to monitor and limit the operation of motorized systems like window lifters, seat motors, and powered tailgates. In e-bikes, it is used to detect cadence and activate electric pedal assistance. Motor feedback also plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and precise movement, both in industry and our homes, in applications such as smart blinds and ventilation systems. At present, engineers using a dual latch solution for stepper or DC motor applications are reliant on integrating two discrete solutions or a pitch dependent solution. In either case, designs are hindered by increased development, complicated and highly specific magnet designs, and increased costs. The MLX92253 distinguishes itself by featuring two hall plates, one Z axis and one X axis, with two independent signal tracks. It also has a common magnetic center, which ensures a consistent 90° phase shift (quadrature) between the two speed outputs, independent of the magnet pole pitch. Furthermore, the MLX92253 features a low and narrow magnetic threshold, allowing for smaller, more affordable magnets or a larger air gap to ease assembly concerns. This functionality provides engineers with greater flexibility in their magnetic design and allows for the design to be more easily repurposed across various products. In operation, the MLX92253 offers fast and accurate feedback with low delay, low jitter and increased reliability over traditional solutions. It features a chopping frequency of 500 kHz, an operating voltage range from 2.7V to 5.5V to suit low powered embedded designs, a wide working temperature of -40 ̊C to 150 ̊C and an output state feedback during start-up. The startup feedback function can be utilized to convert the two outputs into inputs during start-up. This allows a microcontroller to retrieve the previous state of the MLX92253 before power-down, ensuring that no movement is missed. “The MLX92253 sets a new standard for affordable DC motors & encoders,” said Minko Daskalov, Product Line Manager at Melexis. “It reduces development, production, and material costs while supporting a wide range of applications that contribute to global sustainability.” The MLX92253 is available now in a compact TSOT23 package. It is also available on request as engineering samples in a VA package. To discover more, visit www.melexis.com/MLX92253 or contact us directly via www.melexis.com/contact. Downloads Datasheet for MLX92253 Product flyer for Hall-effect dual latch ICs Latch & Switch selection tool

Visteon Veteran Reveals Secrets to a Successful Career

Change. It’s the one constant in life, a force that can be both exhilarating and unsettling. For Manuel Pereira, Product Management of Driver Information at Visteon, navigating change is all about perspective. With his 24-year tenure at the company, Manuel has witnessed a remarkable evolution – leadership shifts, product transformations, and even economic downturns. Yet, through it all, he’s maintained a positive outlook, one built on strong relationships and a deep understanding of personal growth. Building Bridges Through Change Manuel’s philosophy is refreshingly simple: success is a team sport. He emphasizes the importance of building connections with colleagues, believing that “people are the best thing in life, which includes work.” This focus on relationships becomes even more crucial during periods of change. As Manuel puts it, “you cannot accomplish work solo.” Building strong bonds allows teams to weather any storm and have a sense of stability even amidst a shifting landscape. A Platform for Inspiration Visteon’s “Life as a Leader” series exemplifies this commitment to people development. These sessions provide a platform for leaders like Manuel to share their experiences and inspire others. Manuel’s recent talk was particularly engaging. He possessed a remarkable ability to break down complex questions into clear, actionable answers. Listening to him felt like attending a masterclass, where career and life lessons were readily applicable. Mentorship and the Joy of Shared Success One question resonated deeply: “How do you handle mentoring a mentee who’s advancing more quickly than anticipated?” Manuel’s candid response shattered any notions of competition. He genuinely thrives on seeing his mentees flourish, viewing their success as a testament to his guidance. Any mentor should feel proud if their mentee is quickly advancing because of your contributions to their growth, he declared. Finding Your Place on the Team Manuel also addressed the ever-present question of career progression. He introduced a powerful analogy, comparing careers to different teams within a larger organization. “You must choose which team you play for – the first team (leadership) or the second team (a supporting role),” he explained. The key takeaway? Finding fulfillment, not necessarily a fancy title, is paramount. Both teams offer opportunities for growth, and the true path to happiness lies in choosing the one that aligns with your personal aspirations. Prioritizing for Balance Work-life balance remains a constant topic of discussion. Manuel’s approach emphasizes prioritization. He encourages the distinction between “important” and “urgent” tasks, acknowledging that true emergencies are rare. Taking ownership of your time and focusing on activities that deliver the most value – to the company, the customer, and yourself – becomes the cornerstone of a balanced life. Learning from Failure as a Stepping Stone to Growth No discussion on leadership is complete without addressing failure. Manuel is refreshingly honest about the inevitability of setbacks. However, he emphasizes that it’s how you handle them that truly matters. “Repeating a failure is worse than failing,” he warns. The key lies in learning from mistakes, refusing to dwell on them, and using them as stepping stones to move forward. Beyond the Office – A Man of Many Talents Manuel’s life extends far beyond the confines of the office. He possesses a passion for carpentry and enjoys the creative expression of playing with musical instruments. Meeting him reveals a genuine interest in people and technology – qualities that make him a truly cherished leader at Visteon. Seize the Day, Join Our Team One of the most powerful takeaways from Manuel’s session was his emphasis on seizing the moment. Don’t wait to pursue your dreams, whether it’s returning to school, finally reading that book, or learning a new instrument. As Manuel urges, “Take action – don’t wait!” Inspired by Manuel’s leadership style? Explore our current job openings and grow in a company that invests in its people.

Grace Webb joins Motorcycle Live 2024 as host of the all-new Expert Lab

TV star Grace Webb fronts a brand-new unmissable feature at MCL 24 Brand-new feature at MCL 24, ‘The Expert Lab’ Grace Webb joins the fresh presenter line-up for 2024 alongside Matt Crowhurst – with the final piece of the puzzle to be announced over the next two weeks With hundreds of exhibitors already signed up, see the latest models, one of a kind masterpieces and classics a-plenty MCL 24 in association with Bikesure Insurance takes place at the NEC, Birmingham between 16-24 November Tickets are available now – frozen at last year’s prices from www.motorcyclelive.co.uk Known for her incredible knowledge, infectious energy, and passion for all things two wheels, Grace Webb will be heading up the brand-new Expert Lab at Motorcycle Live 2024 – a feature which promises to be an unmissable attraction at the UK’s biggest motorcycle and scooter show. More stages. More Knowledge. More Entertainment.This year, the show plans to deliver more of what visitors love as Motorcycle Live is being AMPLIFIED with brand-new features, stages and the recently announced Festival Zone. Positioned at the heart of the show, the Expert Lab will host a jam-packed schedule of engaging, informative and entertaining sessions – with Grace getting to the bottom of all the latest technology and innovation, and asking the questions to ensure visitors walk away with new insights, a fresh perspective, or a newly sparked passion. Speaking with a line-up of expert guests, there’s something for everyone – whether a seasoned rider or for those just beginning their journey on two wheels. It’s not just live interviews either, there will be daily practical demonstrations from the incredible team from The Machine Shop. A fan-favourite at Motorcycle Live 2023, they’ll be back showcasing their engineering prowess and enthusiasm through live demos, bringing the theory to life. More to come.With even more to be announced in the lead-up to the show, visitors can be sure MCL24 will be full of all the things they know and love, as well as a carnival of content to surprise and delight them. MCL24 isn’t just an event; it’s an experience. With so many new features, this year’s show is shaping up to be the best one yet. Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the world of motorcycling like never before. MCL24 in association with Bikesure Insurance takes place at the NEC, Birmingham between 16-24 November. Tickets are on sale now at www.motorcyclelive.co.uk – and they’re currently frozen at last year’s prices – so book now. Follow us on social media: ● Facebook: @MotorcycleLive● Twitter: @MotorcycleLive● Instagram: @MotorcycleLive● TikTok: @MotorcycleLiveNec● Hashtags: #MotorcycleLive and #MCL24 Join the conversation online and stay updated on all the latest news and announcements by using the hashtags #MotorcycleLive and #MCL24. About Motorcycle Live:Motorcycle Live in association with Bikesure Insurance, is the UK’s largest motorcycle show, held annually in November at the NEC Birmingham. Bringing together riders, manufacturers, and enthusiasts, the event showcases the latest in motorcycles, accessories, and kit while offering unparalleled opportunities to experience the thrill of riding with a number of free riding features for all ages and abilities. New for 2024, MCL will host the ‘Festival Zone,’ bringing the excitement of outdoor festivals indoors, free from weather worries. Notes to editors: Media accreditation for MCL 24 is now open – click here to apply Click here to view the Expert Lab launch video on YouTube

Nissan Formula E Team to field Rowland and Nato for Season 11

Rowland continues after excellent campaign while Nato returns to the squad YOKOHAMA, Japan (September 11, 2024) – Nissan Formula E Team will pair Oliver Rowland and Norman Nato for the 2024/25 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, forming an experienced and competitive driver line-up. Following a fruitful partnership in the GEN2 era, Rowland enjoyed a strong Season 10 with the team. The British driver took two victories, including a home win in the final race of the year, in addition to two pole positions and five further podiums on his way to fourth in the standings. Meanwhile, Formula E race winner Nato returns to the Japanese squad, having previously raced in cherry blossom during Season 9 (2022/23). The Frenchman was a regular in the points, securing the team’s first podium finish under full Nissan ownership at the 2023 Rome E-Prix. The 2024/25 campaign will see the debut of the GEN3 Evo technology. The new machinery will be even quicker and more efficient than the cars used in Seasons 9 and 10. The calendar will also feature a record 17 races, including a first visit to Miami, a return to Jakarta, a double-header in Monaco and the second ever Tokyo E-Prix, Nissan Formula E Team’s home race. Nissan Formula E Team will be back on track at Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia for Pre-Season Testing on 4-7 November for the GEN3 Evo’s first official outing, ahead of the season opener in São Paulo on 7 December. Tommaso Volpe, managing director and team principal, Nissan Formula E Team: “We’re excited for Season 11 after a very good performance in the last campaign. We’ve refreshed our driver line-up by welcoming back Norman, who will bring his wealth of experience and performance. Norman knows the team well and showed his talent when he was previously with us. His feedback and insight are valuable and he has a track record of developing cars, so we are delighted to see him return. Oli had a fantastic Season 10, and we’re confident he can continue at that level. We believe that Norman and Oli will form a strong pairing, both are team players and will do their best to help us improve throughout the upcoming year. “At the same time and while it hasn’t been an easy decision, we have to say goodbye to Sacha. He has been a fundamental part of the establishment and development of Nissan Formula E Team, and we thank him for his hard work and his ever positive attitude. We’re proud to have grown together with him, and wish him all the best for his future career.” Oliver Rowland, driver, Nissan Formula E Team: “I’m excited to continue with Nissan Formula E Team after a very strong year. It’s been great to have some time off, I’ve been training and working with the team which has been positive. For next season we need to try and bring more consistency to all elements of our race weekends, whether that’s in qualifying or car development. Last year we executed some races perfectly, so for this season we have to maintain that progress and improve the small bits we can to continue moving further up the order. I’ve known Norman for a few years, he’s very experienced and knows the team well, and I’m looking forward to working together. The GEN3 Evo car will be a challenge for everyone on the grid, so it’s a chance for us to maximize our performance and start the season on the front foot. I also want to give my best to Sacha, I enjoyed working with him during Season 10 and hope to see him back on the grid soon.” Norman Nato, driver, Nissan Formula E Team: “I’m really happy to be back with the team. We ended Season 9 strongly together and I’m looking to pick up where we left off. We will be aiming to perform straight away, so the fact I know the car and the team will be helpful. Oli proved how quick he is last season, we’ve been battling on track since Formula Renault 2.0 but never been teammates! I’m sure we will get along well and hopefully we can share some podiums together. It will be interesting to see how the car has improved, and the goal is clear. We want to win races and championships. Finally, I wish Sacha all the best, he’s a top guy and it’s never easy to replace someone you previously partnered with. I’m sure we will be racing each other again very soon.” ### About Nissan in Formula ENissan made its all-electric racing debut in Season 5 (2018/19) of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship, becoming the first and only Japanese manufacturer to enter the series. In Season 7 (2020/21), Nissan announced its long-term involvement in Formula E and its commitment to the Gen3 era, which will run from Season 9 (2022/23) through to the end of Season 12 (2025/26) of the all-electric racing series. In April 2022, Nissan acquired the e.dams race team, with the Japanese automaker taking full ownership of its involvement in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. In June 2022, Nissan announced it would supply its Nissan EV powertrain technology to McLaren Racing for the entirety of the Formula E Gen3 era. For Season 11 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, the Nissan Formula E drivers are Oliver Rowland and Norman Nato. On 28th March 2024, ahead of the first ever Tokyo E-Prix, Nissan announced its long term commitment to Formula E, becoming the first manufacturer to sign up for the Gen4 era, which runs until 2030, reinforcing its pledge to its Ambition 2030 electrification targets. Nissan races in Formula E to bring the excitement and fun of zero-emission electric vehicles to a global audience. As part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations and the life cycle of its products by 2050, Nissan intends to electrify every all-new vehicle offering by the early 2030s…

HORSE invests €32.8 million in energy-efficient cylinder head casting

HORSE to invest in gravity-casting process to produce aluminium cylinder heads at its Curitiba plant in Brazil New cylinder head production facility localises supply chain for HORSE’s turbo flex fuel HR10 and HR13 engines Production line forecast to produce 210,000 cylinders annually and create 60 new jobs by 2026 Further investment made in Curitiba’s engine testing and validation capabilities to accommodate new output 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, a leader in innovative and low emissions powertrain systems, will invest in a new state-of-the-art production line to cast aluminium engine cylinder heads at its Curitiba plant in Brazil. This new facility will use a tilting gravity casting process to produce aluminium cylinder heads for the company’s 1.0-litre and 1.3-litre flex fuel engines. Forecast to cast 210,000 cylinder heads annually, HORSE will invest €26.3 million in the new automated production line, creating 60 new permanent jobs by 2026. HORSE will also be investing another €6.5 million in the Curitiba plant’s testing and validation capabilities to correspond with the growth in production volume. The new line is planned to be fully operational by October 2026. Antonio Vaz, Chief Process Engineering Officer at HORSE, said: “By investing over €30 million in cylinder head production at Curitiba, we’re further localising the supply chain for some of our most valuable engines for the South American market. This new line also pioneers some of the most energy-efficient casting methods in the industry, with zero waste to landfill. It signals our commitment to South America and to next-generation processes at scale.” Pioneering new processesCuritiba’s new line will be HORSE’s first worldwide to use gravity casting for cylinder production, a highly efficient process that delivers components with outstanding mechanical and material performance. In combination with the use of sustainably sourced inorganic sand, the new line will produce zero waste for landfill – all production waste can be re-processed and recycled. Powering next-generation enginesCuritiba’s new line will produce cylinder heads for HORSE’s HR10 and HR13 turbo petrol engines. Tailored to the unique needs of the South American market, both the 3-cylinder 1.0-litre ‘HR10’ and 4-cylinder 1.3-litre ‘HR13’ engines can be run on both gasoline and ethanol, supporting the widespread use of flex fuels in Latin America. HORSE plans to produce both engines domestically at its Curitiba plant by the end of 2024. Both engines use a delta-shaped cylinder head to save mass and space, lower their centre of gravity, and improve thermal management of the engine. Exhaust manifolds are directly cast into the head for faster turbo response and exceptional low speed torque delivery. This new investment will enable cylinder heads for both the HR10 and HR13 engines to be entirely domestically produced at the Curitiba plant, localising the supply chain for these engines. It follows a €16 million investment in November 2023 to produce the HR10 engine at Curitiba. Wesley Palma, Operations Director at HORSE Curitiba, said: “This investment recognises Brazil’s ever-growing importance to HORSE and the global automotive industry. Building on our previous investments to produce the HR10 engine in Brazil, this new initiative will further localise production for both our HR10 and HR13 engines with domestically cast cylinder heads. This will help us streamline our supply chain and further reinforce Brazil’s role as a critical hub for automotive innovation.” 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.

Ground-breaking Volvo EX30 honoured in the 2024 Marie Claire UK Sustainability Awards

Sustainable Interior award recognises Volvo Cars’ application of intelligent design and sustainable and recycled materials to cut the carbon footprint of its cars EX30 fully electric small SUV designed from the outset to have the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo car yet Marie Claire UK praises the company’s “impressive commitment”, enabling customers to make informed choices about the sustainability of their car Volvo Cars’ comprehensive efforts to ensure its EX30 has the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo car to date have been rewarded with the fully electric small SUV receiving the Sustainable Interior award in the 2024 Marie Claire UK Sustainability Awards. Andrea Thompson, Marie Claire UK Editor in Chief, said: “Volvo has made an impressive commitment and investment in the traceability of the products used in its vehicles. Blockchain technology significantly boosts transparency of the raw material supply chain, empowering customers to make informed, conscious choices.” Now in their fourth year, the awards celebrate ground-breaking products, innovative business models and leaders who “go the extra mile to build a better tomorrow”. The winners were selected by a judging group that included experts from Marie Claire UK and the B Corp sustainability advisory Seismic. Marie Claire UK highlighted how Volvo Cars has reduced the number of components in the EX30’s cabin, for example providing a centrally positioned array of window controls and using a sound bar for the in-car audio instead of multiple speakers. It also praised the “innovative finish” featuring woven flax, textile fibres from recycled denim jeans and plastics sourced from recycled window frames. The Nordico seat upholstery is also made from recyclables, including PET bottles and bio-attributed materials from Scandinavian forests. Nicole Melillo Shaw, Volvo Car UK Managing Director, said: “The Marie Claire UK sustainability award gives great recognition to our efforts to reduce carbon, specifically in an area where people can see close-up what can be achieved. The EX30’s interior shows just what high-quality, visual and tactile appeal can be created using recycled and recovered materials. This, of course, is just one element in the all-round sustainability we are delivering in the EX30, setting the bar for future models and driving our progress towards future carbon neutrality.” Volvo Cars’ focus on reducing the overall carbon footprint of the EX30 covers every aspect of the car and its complete lifecycle. Parts and materials suppliers have committed to using 100% renewable energy, and Volvo Cars has streamlined its production processes to ensure emissions efficiency and materials traceability. Recycled materials are used wherever possible in the EX30’s construction. At the end of its useful life, the EX30 is also designed so that 95% of its content can be recovered, while the remainder can be used for energy recovery. The achievements with the EX30 support Volvo Cars’ global aim to reduce its overall CO2 emissions per car by 65-75% by 2030 from 2018 levels. For more information about the Volvo EX30, and to use the online configurator, please go to www.volvocars.co.uk.

Subaru Crosstrek awarded maximum five-star rating in 2024 Euro NCAP safety test

Crosstrek scored 90% in the Child Occupant safety category 85% achieved in the protection of road users with top scores awarded in crash avoidance tests with cyclists and motorcyclists Top scores for Driver and passenger safety with 83% for two types of lateral crash impacts Five-star Euro NCAP rating now attained for all Subaru models on sale in the UK 11th September 2024 – Subaru Europe, a subsidiary of SUBARU CORPORATION, announced today that the new Subaru Crosstrek has achieved the maximum five-star overall rating in the 2024 European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP). The Crosstrek registered scores above the required threshold in all four key assessment areas, Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Vulnerable Road Users and Safety Assistance. This achievement results in all Subaru models on sale in the UK having attained Euro NCAP five-star status. In the Child Occupant assessment area, the Subaru Crosstrek was one of the best-performing vehicles tested in 2024, attaining the maximum points in Crash Test Performance (both frontal and lateral impact) based on 6 & 10-year-old children*1, and CRS installation check*2. Good protection was provided for all critical body regions during the frontal offset test and the more severe side pole impact tests, with maximum points scored in this part of the assessment. The Crosstrek is equipped with a robust system which automatically disables the front passenger airbag when a rearward-facing child restraint is used in that seating position. The Crosstrek is also equipped with an indirect ‘child presence detection’ system (i.e. Rear Seat Reminder), which issues a warning when it recognises that a child or infant may have been left in the car. Additionally, all the child seats and restraint types for which the Crosstrek is designed could be correctly installed and accommodated in the vehicle. For the Vulnerable Road Users assessment area, the new Subaru Crosstrek attained the maximum points for AEB Cyclist *3 and Lane Support Motorcyclists. The system’s performance in the detection of, and reaction to, cyclists and motorcyclists was good across all tested scenarios. Regarding the Adult Occupant assessments, the Subaru Crosstrek scored maximum points in the side barrier test and the more severe side-pole impact, as the protection of all critical body regions was good. Tests on the front seats and head restraints demonstrated protection against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear-end collision. A geometric analysis of the rear seats also indicated whiplash protection. The tests further showed that while the passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal offset test, the dummy readings indicated good protection of the knees and femurs of both the driver and passenger while demonstrating a similar level of protection for occupants of different sizes and those sitting in differing positions. In the Safety Assist assessment area, the Subaru Crosstrek attained the maximum points in the Lane Support category*4 according to the latest applicable test. The lane support system (Lane Keep Assist) gently corrects the vehicle’s path when drifting out of a lane and will then intervene in more critical situations (i.e. Emergency Lane Keeping). The Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with a seatbelt reminder system fitted as standard to the front and rear seats which gained the maximum score in the category, as well as a driver status monitoring system. Released in the UK in January 2024, the Subaru Crosstrek is a tough, practical, and confidence-inspiring vehicle, that has been designed and built to handle life in the countryside and off the beaten track. Offering outstanding capability when the going gets tough, the Subaru Crosstrek offers 220mm of ground clearance and permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive along with the brand’s renowned X-MODE off-road system fitted as standard, ensuring maximum grip and traction, and exceptional road holding, whatever the weather or terrain conditions.

Rolls-Royce & Chichester Festival Theatre: back for more in 2024

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars marks 21st anniversary of its Platinum Partnership with the world-renowned Chichester Festival Theatre Reflects the marque’s deep-rooted commitment to – and support for – the local community and wider region Rolls-Royce was the 2024 Summer Gala Sponsor, featuring a special performance of beloved musical Oliver! Event is raising funds for the Theatre’s outreach work among local young people “Our support for Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT) began in 2003, the same year we first launched the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood. As well as staging truly world-class productions, CFT does amazing work bringing theatre’s unique opportunities for personal development, confidence building, teamwork and sheer joy to local young people facing huge life challenges. As a company, we see ourselves reflected in CFT: a relatively small group of people, closely connected to their local community, working at the very pinnacle of their art and with an influence and reputation that extends around the world. It’s a pleasure to be embarking on the third decade of this wonderful partnership.Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Rolls-Royce Motor Cars continues its long-running relationship with the world-renowned Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT) in 2024. The partnership, now entering its 21st year, demonstrates the marque’s deep commitment to – and support for – its local community and the wider region.Rolls-Royce was the 2024 Summer Gala Sponsor, which featured a special performance of its summer musical followed by a private dinner with the cast and company. This year’s production was a spectacular revival of Oliver!, reconceived exclusively for CFT by award-winning director and choreographer, Sir Matthew Bourne, and acclaimed producer, Sir Cameron Mackintosh. Liz McCarthy-Nield, Director of Development at CFT, said, “We are delighted to continue our Platinum Partnership with Rolls Royce Motor Cars, and were especially pleased to have the marque’s support as our Summer Gala Sponsor. Following a hugely successful run of Oliver! this summer, CFT was thrilled to host the sold-out Gala performance. Proceeds raised from the Summer Gala will support bursaries for disadvantaged young people to take part in our youth theatre and other creative projects, enabling access to all the transformative benefits of theatre. We are incredibly grateful to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars for generously supporting this event.” Chichester Festival Theatre was founded in 1962, under the artistic directorship of the legendary actor, Sir Laurence Olivier, and financed by donations from local businesses and individuals. Today, over 350,000 theatregoers every year attend its flagship Festival Season, which runs from April to October, and its busy Winter season of touring shows. The marque began its partnership with the Theatre in 2003, the same year the company launched the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood.

Aston Martin Vantage GT3 heads to Japan as WEC’s newest LMGT3 class winner

New Aston Martin Vantage GT3 chasing victory again on return to Fuji Motor Speedway in the FIA World Endurance Championship D’station Racing returns home to the scene of its best result in WEC so far The Heart of Racing [THoR] aims to double-up after maiden WEC win Aston Martin looking to extend glorious story of success on the legendary Japanese track Wednesday, 11 September, 2024, Fuji, Japan: The new Aston Martin Vantage GT3 is back in FIA World Endurance Championship [WEC] action at in the 6 Hours of Fuji, in Japan, this weekend, less than two weeks after The Heart of Racing [THoR] clinched the British ultraluxury sportscar brand’s first win of the season in the series. Thanks to a spectacular run on home ground at the Circuit of the Americas [COTA], THoR led the way from pole, and recorded the fastest LMGT3 class lap en route to its maiden WEC victory just 10 days ago. Now it is the turn of Aston Martin Racing’s other WEC partner team D’station Racing to race on native turf, as it returns to its very roots. The team’s headquarters are stationed just a few miles from the circuit in the foothills of Mount Fuji. The team, owned by former WEC racer Satoshi Hoshino (JPN) and managed by SUPER GT Series class winner Tomonobu Fujii (JPN), comes to Fuji hoping to improve on its best WEC finishes of third in class, recorded at Fuji in 2022. D’station Racing equalled that result when it was on the podium again this year in the season-opening Qatar 1812 race at Lusail, in March. Among D’station Racing’s driving strength is Aston Martin’s most decorated active works driver, Marco Sørensen (DEN), a three-time FIA WEC champion in the GT classes and a Rolex 24 and 24 Hours of Le Mans class winner, and now the most recent Spa 24 Hours winner alongside fellow works drivers Nicki Thiim (DEN) and Mattia Drudi (ITA). Erwan Bastard (FRA), a French and European GT4 title-winner, join the Dane in the #777 Vantage. For THoR, Fuji represents an opportunity for the team to close the gap in the battle for second in the LMGT3 class drivers’ and teams’ standings. Following team principal and driver Ian James (GBR), Alex Riberas (ESP) and Daniel Mancinelli’s (ITA) breakthrough win at COTA, THoR is now nine points away from second place and 37 points off the leaders. There is a maximum of 26 points available (one point for pole and 25 for victory) this weekend, while the season finale in Bahrain offers up another 39, meaning there are potentially 65 left to be scored in the remaining rounds of the 2024 season. So far this year, THoR has recorded two second places and a victory in an exceptional first full season that has witnessed the #27 Vantage be a contender in virtually every race and record no less than five points finishes from seven starts. Adam Carter, Aston Martin Head of Endurance Motorsport, said: “The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 is now a race winner in WEC, thanks to the outstanding performance of The Heart of Racing’s drivers and team at COTA, last time out. But we firmly believe there is plenty more to come from new Vantage, which is still in its first year of competition and we are learning more about it with every race as we build-up data. Both our partner teams competing in Fuji are capable of fighting for the podium again this weekend and we are looking forward to seeing what they can achieve with a car that is now really delivering on its potential.” Aston Martin’s new GT3-based challenger is closely derived from the new Vantage road car unveiled earlier this year at Silverstone and is built around Aston Martin’s proven bonded aluminium chassis and powered by a fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine. It’s COTA win meant that Vantage is the third different car to win in the new LMGT3 class, which features no less than nine manufacturers in 2024. Aston Martin’s record at Fuji in WEC is outstanding. Vantage has won in each of its three previous configurations (Vantage V8, V8 Vantage GTE and Vantage GTE) in the GT class, and has recorded two double-class victories (in 2013 and 2019/20) among the seven wins it has taken from its ten previous visits to the circuit. The brand has also won the event in two of the last three visits with partner teams. In total, Aston Martin crews have stood on the podium no less than 16 times, and on only two occasions has the Fuji podium been Aston Martin free since the series began in 2012. Official practice for the 6 Hours of Fuji begins on Friday, 13 September at 1100 local time (0300 BST) with the race beginning at 1100 (0300 BST) on Sunday. Follow details of the event via the official series websites and Apps.