McLaren continues points-winning performance on the FIA World Endurance Championship’s return to Texas

Industry News

McLaren makes Circuit of the Americas WEC debut as championship returns after four-year hiatus James Cottingham qualifies McLaren GT3 EVO seventh in Hyperpole session Double points finish for McLaren GT3 EVO with fourth and seventh places after six hours of racing McLaren Automotive and Racing Partner United Autosports continued the McLaren GT3 EVO’s run of points finishes in the USA on September 1 at round six of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Lone Star Le Mans six-hour race. The challenging 3.4-mile, 20 corner Circuit of the Americas (COTA), based just outside of Austin, Texas has been home to the US Grand Prix since 2012, but last hosted a round of the WEC in 2020. With ambient temperatures reaching 35 degrees celsius, the sixth round of the season would be a true endurance test for the cars and drivers. In qualifying James Cottingham finished ninth during a busy session, allowing him to progress to the Hyperpole session, where he set the seventh fastest time. Teammate Josh Caygill just missed out on Hyperpole, qualifying eleventh. Both cars got a clean start to the race and Caygill made up several places in the #95 car to finish the opening lap just behind Cottingham’s #59 car in eighth place. The order ebbed and flowed as the race progressed with #59 frequently running in the top three as the various pit stop strategies played out. With very few Full Course Yellow periods required during the race there was plenty of close action and both cars saw lots of wheel-to-wheel racing over the duration. In the final 45 minutes the #59 car’s race really came alive, with a podium finish within reach during Gregoire Saucy’s stint behind the wheel. With a set of fresh tyres, a superb drive ultimately netted fourth place, just 7.4 seconds away from the podium. Marino Sato cross the line in the #95 car in seventh place, despite having to serve a drive-through penalty on the penultimate lap. The WEC season now heads to Japan, with round seven taking place on September 15 at the Fuji circuit. “James Cottingham, Gregoire Saucy, Nicolas Costa and the #59 crew have delivered another solid result today with P4. And while it feels frustrating to be so close to the podium again, everybody should be really proud. We are fighting for LMGT3 podiums, we have the pace for LMGT3 podiums, and we are taking on world-class teams and drivers. We’re at that level – and we have two more races to get the result that is so deserved. For the #95 crew, it wasn’t their weekend with a mid-field start, traffic and a couple of issues which will be ironed out before Fuji. But that doesn’t take away from the phenomenal effort that everyone has put in this weekend. I think we’re all praying for cooler temperatures in the final two races!”Richard Dean, CEO, United Autosports “Another strong performance from the United Autosports team and the McLaren GT3 EVOs. A fourth and seventh place finish demonstrates our consistency and earns more championship points, providing us with another positive weekend of racing. We celebrated our first WEC podium finish in Brazil and we came close here in Austin. The team now move on to the penultimate round of the season in Japan, where we will continue to move forward and push for those podium places. Mick McDonagh, Director of MSO & Motorsport, McLaren Automotive

Parents admit shame of letting friends in their car due to child-made mess, Škoda research reveals

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More than five million1 drivers in the UK with children are too embarrassed to offer friends a lift because their car is too messy, but 25% wouldn’t have it any other way One in 10 UK drivers said that they have felt like scrapping their car because of the grime Crisps were the most common cause of mess followed by drinks and biscuits. Spilt drinks ranked first as the most stubborn to clean with chocolate a close second 15% of parents admit to rarely cleaning a mess immediately and 14% saying that they left it a few weeks before tackling a stain Škoda has enlisted the expertise of professional organiser and TV presenter, Dilly Carter, to help families clean up their cars Tips and advice available at: www.skoda.co.uk/discover/messy-cars Milton Keynes, 3rd September 2024 – Almost half (41%) of drivers in the UK with children, more than 5.2 million1, said they have felt too embarrassed to offer a friend a lift due to the mess in their car caused by their kids, research from Škoda has revealed. It comes as children return to school after the long summer break, leaving parents to do the big clean-up. As well as wanting to keep the rubbish out of sight of their peers, 29% of parents were also keen not to let a relative get in the back of their car, while almost one in 10 (9%) said they wouldn’t want to park at work to avoid people seeing the state of it. However, while many felt the embarrassment of their untidy cars, others saw it as a badge of honour. A quarter (25%) said they wouldn’t have it any other way, with more than a fifth (22%) saying that a messy or untidy car is proof the family has had a good time. The sense of mess inside has led to 27% wanting to ban their children from getting in the car, and one in five (23%) admitting that the chaos caused had made them want to cry. But these reactions appear tame compared to the more than 1.12 million drivers pushed as far as thinking about scrapping their car. The biggest culprit for mess is crisps. This is followed by drinks, with crumb-creating biscuits the third biggest mess-maker. It isn’t just food that creates chaos in the back of parents’ cars, with toy slime also featuring in the top 10. While crisps were the most commonly spilt items, it wasn’t the hardest for parents to clean up, with that award going to drinks, followed by chocolates and then sweets. To assist despairing parents, Škoda has teamed up with professional organiser and TV presenter, Dilly Carter, to guide and advise on how best to clean a messy car. Škoda also offers a number of Škoda Simply Clever features to help in the battle against the mess, including a rubbish bin that goes in the door pocket, boot organisers, and new screen cleaner for the touchscreen display in the Kodiaq and Superb. Dilly Carter said: “When kids are involved our cars often end up messy and cluttered. From the kids eating food on the go, drink spillages, to all the items they want to bring with them like books, and tablets. With a few simple tips and useful items, you can keep the car cleaner, and free of the things that end up making us feel embarrassed by the state of our car.” Here are Dilly Carter’s top five car-cleaning tips: Bin your rubbish – If you’re going on a long trip take a bag with you to put all the rubbish in, or use car bins which are available on all Škoda models Organise and declutter – We often end up with shoes, wellies, books, coats and everything in our car from children. Clever boot storage such as boxes, nets and boot dividers will keep everyone organised Wipe away spills – No matter the stain – chocolate or sticky drinks – try and get to it as soon as you can, and nothing cleans these better than baby wipes Secure your gadgets – Use tablet holders in the back seat. Not only will this help reduce the amount of sticky hands on them but also avoids them being broken, and keeps their mind off more messy activities Carry cleaning cloths – Children aren’t the only problem, clean marks and mess on touchscreens and surfaces with a micro fibre cloth and clever cleaners As well as Simply Clever features, Škoda tests and develops in-car materials to ensure they can withstand the everyday wear and tear. One such test includes specialist machines creating friction, rubbing materials over and over again with items as harsh as sandpaper, so customers can be safe in the knowledge that rigorous cleaning won’t affect their interior. Further research found that when their children did make a mess, just one in 10 (12%) of parents admitted to cleaning it up immediately, with 15% rarely doing so. When it didn’t happen immediately, a third of people (33%) said they left it a few days before tackling the mess with 14% leaving it a few weeks and 5% leaving it a month. Visit www.skoda.co.uk/discover/messy-cars for more parent friendly tips and advice on how to keep your car that little bit more tidy and less messy.

Royal Automobile Club presents Segrave Trophy to Isle of Man sidecar TT winners Ben and Tom Birchall

Industry News

Fourteen-times Isle of Man sidecar TT winners Ben and Tom Birchall are the latest and much-deserved winners of the Royal Automobile Club’s Segrave Trophy, awarded for ‘outstanding skill, courage and initiative’. “We are delighted to recognise the remarkable achievements of Ben and Tom,” says Club Chairman Duncan Wiltshire. “Racing at the Isle of Man TT is always a perilous adventure, the Birchall brothers’ efforts perfectly mirror the adventurous spirit of Sir Henry Segrave, after whom the trophy is named. They pushed both themselves and their machines to the limit in pursuit of speed.” There are few motor sports quite like racing sidecars around the 37.73-mile mountain course – driver and passenger threading the eye of the needle between hedgerows and farmhouses – no room for error, just like the pioneers of motor racing a century and more ago. The first races on the Isle of Man were organised by the Automobile Club of Great Britain, which later became the Royal Automobile Club, as the Gordon Bennett Eliminating Trials in 1904 and 1905. Later in 1905, the Club organised the first Isle of Man Tourist Trophy for racing automobiles, and the first Isle of Man TT for motorcycles was held in 1907. The latter was organised by the Auto-Cycle Club, later the Auto-Cycle Union, a branch of the then-Automobile Club of Great Britain. Ben (47) and Tom (37) started racing together twenty years ago, with Ben working the handlebars and Tom working as passenger. A sidecar passenger is much more than the name suggests, as they have to position themselves through corners to stabilise the three-wheeled machine. Being moveable ballast at speeds of up to 170mph is not a job for the fainthearted! The brothers took their first TT victory in 2013 and have since won thirteen, going unbeaten between 2015 and 2023. They have also won four sidecar world championships. “Sidecar racing, especially around the Isle of Man, is also the epitome of teamwork,” adds Duncan Wiltshire. “Watching Ben and Tom around the TT course you see how they work together to extract the most out of their machine. It’s a spectacular show and I salute their skill and bravery.” The Segrave Trophy has previously been won by some of Britain’s greatest motorcycles racers, from fellow sidecar racer Steve Webster and TT legend Joey Dunlop to Barry Sheene, Mike Hailwood, John Surtees and Geoff Duke. Ben can hardly believe he now ranks alongside those greats. “To be put anywhere near those names – I’m so thrilled we’ve been chosen, it means so much,” he says. “It’s absolutely mind-bending,” adds Tom. “Motorsport and the TT are such wonderful environments and to get an accolade like this is just bizarre.” During the 2023 TT the Birchalls became the first sidecar pairing to lap the TT course at over 120mph, an incredible speed for a vehicle powered by a 600cc engine and carrying two people. Following that landmark success younger brother Tom decided to retire from the sport, happy with his record and feeling that he had rolled the dice enough. “I was always dead honest with myself,” says Tom. “Every year I’d ask myself, are you ready to commit to this? And I’d always said, yes. But after last year’s TT I asked myself and I couldn’t say it.” Achieving the first 120mph sidecar lap was the perfect time to make the decision. “The final two laps of that race were the most sublime, surreal experience I’ve ever had – doing that speed, getting cheered on in the sunshine,” adds Tom. “We pulled into the winner’s enclosure and I just thought, this is it, this is as good as it’ll ever get and it just felt like the right time. I’ve got good memories and I’m glad it happened, not sad that it’s stopped.” At this year’s TT Tom was replaced by Frenchman Kevin Rousseau who helped Ben to a second-place finish in the second sidecar TT, when rider and passenger were still gelling with each other and their LCR Honda outfit. About the Segrave TrophyThe Segrave Trophy is named after British pilot and pre-war racing driver Sir Henry Segrave – a man who pushed himself and his machines to the limit in the pursuit of ultimate speed. He was the first man to hold both land and water speed records, although the latter cost him his life in 1930. With such drive and determination in mind, the Trophy is awarded for ‘outstanding skill, courage and initiative on land, water and in the air – the Spirit of Adventure’. The first recipient of the Segrave Trophy was Air Commodore Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, for his transatlantic and England to Australia flights in 1930. Previous holders of the trophy have included Amy Johnson CBE (1932), Sir Malcolm Campbell (1933 and 1939), Bruce McLaren (1969), Sir Jackie Stewart (1973 and 1999) and Sir Frank Williams (1992). The Trophy is awarded only if the Segrave Nominations Committee feels there is a suitable recipient that meets its criteria each year. The Royal Automobile Club The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897 and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907 the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing its status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organisation. The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, which remains the oldest continuously competed-for motorsport event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, while continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licences. Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and RAC Foundation while promoting its own motoring events including London Motor Week each October, which culminates in the…

The Motor Ombudsman urges drivers to be top of the class for vehicle checks as the nation goes back to school

Industry News

With the end of the summer holidays, and the arrival of the new academic year, The Motor Ombudsman is highlighting a series of checks that vehicle owners can undertake before heading out on the school run to stay safe and legal on the road The 10 key checks highlighted for consideration include, belting up, examining the condition of tyres, lights, and wiper blades, topping up oil to recommended levels, and ensuring that all vehicle documentation is valid and up-to-date For those needing ad hoc or routine repairs, The Motor Ombudsman’s intuitive online Garage Finder lists all independent and franchise car retailers across the UK that are accredited to the Service and Repair Code London, 03 September 2024 As the new academic year begins, The Motor Ombudsman is highlighting ten handy checks to help vehicle owners prepare for the return to the school run. Performing these often simple, but essential checks is crucial to ensuring the safety of those in the car and that of fellow road users, and to helping prevent unexpected breakdowns when out on the road. Seat belts are vital to safety and to staying legal Before setting off, ensure that all seat belts, front and back, are in good working order, and that car seats for younger passengers are of the right size and are fully secured in place in line with manufacturer guidance. In accordance with the law, it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that all occupants below the age of 14 are correctly belted up before hitting the road. Similarly, over 14s are personally responsible for ensuring that they are wearing a seat belt, with the penalty for not doing so also being up to the sum of £500. Consult The Motor Ombudsman’s Garage Finder for vehicle maintenance The Motor Ombudsman’s intuitive online Garage Finder (TheMotorOmbudsman.org/Garage-Finder) is a quick way to find a local and reputable independent or franchise repairer that is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Service and Repair Code, and is committed to delivering a high standard of work and service. It also means that, should you encounter an issue down the line with work that has been carried out, and have a complaint that cannot be resolve directly with the with the workshop in the first instance, you can call on The Motor Ombudsman’s free and impartial Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service for independent and impartial help concluding the dispute. Have valid documentation before turning a wheel Before leaving home, it is a requirement for all vehicles to have valid insurance and MOT certificates, and to be taxed (with the exception of fully electric cars). In the same vein, it is imperative that your car is serviced in line with the full and interim intervals stated by the vehicle manufacturer to help keep your car running as it should. Furthermore, having a complete service history that meets the prescribed schedule is often a condition for making a warranty claim in the event of a mechanical or electrical issue. Oil should be topped up to recommended levels Alongside the replenishment of other fluids, such as coolant, it is vital that oil is topped up to the recommended level, to keep the engine in an optimum condition. Similarly, the correct lubricant should also be used, as modern cars often require specific types, meaning pouring in the wrong grade of oil can lead to serious mechanical problems and costly repairs. Out on a charge If your car has been parked up for a prolonged period whilst you have been away, it is recommended that you go out for a 20- to 30-minute drive to allow the battery to charge up again, to reduce the risk of any unwanted time out on the school run. Similarly, if driving an electric vehicle, plug in the car ahead of time, so that the battery is fully replenished when getting behind the wheel, helping to avoid any delay to the start of the school day. Lights should be in their element As the academic year starts, and with sunrises getting later and sunsets becoming earlier, it is important to make sure that all front and rear lights are working before setting off, as well as fog and indicator lamps. If you’re not confident doing it yourself, and it is safe to do so, take your car to a Motor Ombudsman-accredited garage to have any defective bulbs changed by a qualified mechanic. Replace any worn-out wiper bladesBefore taking to the road, check your front and rear wiper blades for signs of wear, such as streaking, smearing, or squeaking noises. If they are failing to clear the windscreen effectively, which may equally result in an MOT failure when a car is tested, it is time to replace them with the correct specification for your vehicle’s make and model. Consult your owner’s manual, or a professional, if you’re unsure which blades to choose, or how to swap them for new ones. Under-inflated tyres can prove costly If a car has been stationary for a prolonged period of time, tyre pressure can be lost, which can cause uneven wear and increased fuel consumption. Top up the air pressure in all four tyres to the vehicle manufacturer-recommended levels, which can often be found on the driver’s side door frame or in the handbook. You can use either a home tyre inflation kit, or provided you can get there safely, you can visit a nearby fuel station forecourt that has an air machine. As well as running at the right pressures, tyres must also have the correct tread depth (i.e. at least 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre), and be free of any defects, bulges and cracking. Never ignore any dashboard warning lights Warning lights on the dashboard are visible indicators alerting you to any potential issues, spanning the need for minor maintenance, to the onset of serious mechanical problems. Addressing any illuminated amber or red symbols promptly, which are often outlined in the…

Convenient and safe: parking fees and fuel can be paid directly in the vehicle in all current BMW models

Industry News

Refueling Payments and Parking Payments services from Parkopedia, to be rolled out in vehicles with BMW Operating System 7, 8, 8.5 and 9 Initially available to drivers in Germany at participating fuel stations Single Sign-On functionality enables drivers to access multiple merchants via one login 03 September 2024 – London, UK / Munich, GermanyCustomers in Germany can now pay their fuel bill digitally from their vehicle at participating service stations in all vehicles with BMW Operating System 8, 8.5 and 9*. In-car fuel payments are already possible at participating Aral, Esso, HEM, Q1, Sprint, Team and Allguth, enabling drivers to pay for parking and fueling through one login. In the next few weeks, the function will also be available to customers with vehicles equipped with the BMW Operating System 7*. In total, over 500,000 customers in Germany alone can pay fuel bills directly from their BMW. The debit/credit card that the customer has previously entered via the My BMW app or via the corresponding menu in the vehicle is the default payment method. Single Sign-On functionality is available and enables motorists to access multiple merchants through one login, simplifying the payment process. Intuitive menu navigation for convenient refuellingThe “Refueling Payments” service enables customers to quickly and easily find petrol stations in the area where in-car payments are possible by clicking on the “Search petrol station” tile. When searching for petrol stations in BMW Maps, a check mark can also be set for online payment in the settings, both without active route guidance and along the active route. This allows the customer to quickly and conveniently find petrol stations that support this function. Once the engine has been switched off on arrival at a petrol station, the “Refueling Payments” service offers payment on the central screen. The customer then only has to confirm the petrol station, select the fuel pump number and complete the process by selecting “Activate and pay now”*. The customer then receives a notification on the central screen and also a push notification via the My BMW app – e.g. “Please start the refueling process at pump 8” and can refuel as usual. Finally, a confirmation of the fuel quantity and costs is displayed on the central screen and the driver can then continue their journey. The customer can track past payments and refueling processes at any time in the service in the vehicle and in the My BMW app. Parking has never been so convenient.BMW customers can also pay parking fees directly in the vehicle across 12 European countries with more to follow**. This makes parking in many metered parking zones in vehicles with BMW Operating System 7, 8, 8.5 and 9 particularly convenient. On arrival in an applicable parking zone, the vehicle automatically recognises whether the service is available and displays the payment function if the parking zone is covered by one of the connected providers. The booking can be conveniently paid for using the debit/credit card details stored in the My BMW app. When the vehicle leaves the parking space, the parking booking is automatically terminated. If per-minute billing is possible in the parking zone, the parking period ends automatically as the customer leaves the parking space. The function is also integrated into the My BMW app. In the “Services & Store” tab, customers can end active bookings, view their parking history and manage their payment methods. Simple setup of payment services in just a few stepsA single account provides access to convenient payment of parking fees and fuel costs: the BMW ConnectedDrive account or BMW ID. In the vehicle, the customer must log in with their BMW ID and activate the “Parking Payments” and “Refueling Payments” services once. To store the payment method, a QR code is displayed on the central screen in the vehicle so that the payment details can be entered via smartphone. The BMW Group is working together with Parkopedia to provide and expand parking and fuelling services.

Two of the biggest & most trusted brands in UK automotive announce major new partnership set to redefine future of automotive retail

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From October, all 20,000 in-stock and ‘available soon’ brand-new cars advertised on Auto Trader, will be displayed and accessible on What Car? Multi-year partnership set to revolutionise the new car buying experience, creating a seamless journey between researching, finding and buying their next new car. Retailers and brands will be able to engage and influence a highly qualified audience at the beginning of their new car buying journey. 3rd September 2024, London: Auto Trader and What Car? have today agreed an extension to its multi-year partnership which will see the UK’s most trusted and influential automotive brands come together to redefine the new car buying and selling experience. It will enable the combined unique audience of nearly 11 million people to research, locate, and buy a brand-new car across both platforms in a single seamless journey. And as challenges increase in the new car market, retailers and manufacturers will be able to significantly extend their reach to a highly qualified audience at the beginning of their new car buying journey, all on a single Auto Trader contract. As of October, What Car?’s current ‘New Car Deals’ configurator will be replaced with an innovative new car display and search function powered by Auto Trader, which will enable consumers to conveniently access the 20,000 in-stock brand-new cars advertised every day. Selecting one of the advertised cars will seamlessly transition the consumer onto Auto Trader’s award-winning new car platform to complete the rest of their car buying journey. Since July 2022 Auto Trader has powered the used car listings on What Car? and its sister site, Autocar. The new extension means What Car?’s audience will now have a full view of the market, providing access to the c. 20,000 new cars advertised daily, as well as the 37,000 ‘nearly new’ (those below 12 months old), and the 430,000 used. Bringing together the huge scale of Auto Trader and complementing its wide-ranging car content with that of What Car?’s will help redefine the consumer new car buying experience, removing many of the traditional pain points. Rather than having to use multiple platforms to research, to find, and to calculate the cost of a new car, consumers will now be able to complete most of the necessary car buying jobs in one convenient and seamless journey. Buyers will continue to benefit from What Car?’s advice and reviews, alongside Auto Trader’s own editorial expertise, before benefitting from the largest stock of new cars immediately available. As well as a long and rich British heritage, both Auto Trader and What Car? are among the UK’s most trusted and influential automotive brands. In a recent study, nearly three quarters[1] of respondents said they were the first sites they’d visit when looking for their next car. For new cars specifically, more than half[2] would choose either site as their first destination, which combined, is four times larger than the closest competitor[3]. What’s more, three out of five[4] said they were the most helpful in narrowing down searches. The partnership is equally significant for retailers and manufacturers. Whilst Auto Trader’s partners already benefit from the circa 2 million monthly visits to its new car platform, and 6.5 million daily new car searches, the partnership will extend the reach of their new car stock to a highly engaged new car audience at the beginning of their journey. The ability to engage and influence even more consumers higher up in the new car buying funnel, will help drive more highly qualified leads, and in turn fuel more sales. As of October, retailers and brands will receive the benefits of advertising across both platforms, for the cost of a single Auto Trader contract. At a time when the new car market is facing a growing combination of challenges, the partnership marks another significant milestone in Auto Trader’s commitment to stimulate meaningful retail demand for new cars. It follows the launch of its largest ever marketing investment, which will target new car buyers. Over the course of six months, the multi-million-pound media and creative marketing campaign will reach an estimated 96% of the UK population 35 times with eye-catching creatives across various media formats and consumer touchpoints. Commenting, Catherine Faiers, Auto Trader’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Combined with our significant new car consumer marketing campaign, bringing together two of the UK’s most influential automotive brands marks a very important step in our commitment to helping our partners meet the challenges of the new car market. These significant investments will not only make it easier and more cost efficient to access a huge new car buying audience earlier in the journey, but also drive more highly engaged new car buyers to our partners’ stock. We believe it’s among the most powerful ways in which we can support our partners and would encourage brands not to miss out on the huge opportunity it affords.” Rachel Prasher, Managing Director of Haymarket Automotive, publisher of What Car? and Autocar, said: “Building on the success of our used car partnership, we are delighted to now be working with Auto Trader on new cars, too. The synergy between our brands and audiences is obvious, and by working together we can offer consumers, retailers, and car manufacturers an unrivalled end-to-end car-buying and selling experience.”

Daniel Arsham and Team Ikuzawa to present bespoke-livery Porsche 904 and exclusive capsule collection at the Goodwood Revival this weekend

Industry News

Goodwood, England – Daniel Arsham and Team Ikuzawa are set to race a bespoke-livery Porsche 904 and present an exclusive capsule collection at the Goodwood Revival this weekend, signifying a notable collaboration between contemporary brands and the world’s greatest historic motoring event. The distinctively liveried Porsche 904 and capsule collection, designed by Daniel Arsham and Mai Ikuzawa, reimagine the minimalist branding of the original 1980s Team Ikuzawa by blending it with elements of the lunar phase—an important motif in Daniel’s early work—and the sun, a central emblem of identity for Tetsu Ikuzawa. Furthermore, Goodwood has become a deeply meaningful location for both artists, serving as a major source of inspiration in their creative journey. The car will be driven by the father-son duo of Emanuele Pirro, former Formula 1 driver and five-time Le Mans winner, and Goffredo Pirro. This collaboration underscores the deep historical ties both Daniel Arsham and Team Ikuzawa have with Porsche. Tetsu Ikuzawa, the first Porsche factory driver from Japan and the first Japanese driver at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the famed pink Italiya Kremer 935, has left a lasting legacy. His legendary win at the 1967 Japan Grand Prix in a Porsche 906 as a privateer entrant made him a national hero and a Goodwood favourite. Continuing this legacy, his daughter Mai Ikuzawa drove at last year’s Festival of Speed. Daniel Arsham has developed a significant relationship with Porsche through his unique artistic vision and collaboration with the brand by elevating them into art pieces and adding a layer of cultural and artistic significance to the brand. The Porsche 904, owned by JOTA co-owner and motorsport heavyweight David Clark and powered by JOTA Sport, will include the JOTA logo in Japanese during the 6 Hours of Fuji on 15 September on both Hertz Team JOTA cars as part of the collaboration. The collaboration between Team Ikuzawa, Daniel Arsham and Goodwood will debut a special paddock area, located near the entrance to the Freddie March Spirit of Aviation presented by Bonhams|Cars. The exclusive, limited-edition capsule collection features a white denim varsity jacket, hoodie, T-shirt, trunk bags, keyring, art print and car grill badge. It seamlessly merges the rich Japanese motorsport heritage of Team Ikuzawa with the creative vision of Daniel and Mai, alongside the enduring British legacy of Goodwood. This partnership reimagines heritage for the future, resonating with Daniel’s signature theme. Daniel, Mai, and The Duke of Richmond have been close friends for many years. This collaborative project highlights their deep friendship and shared passion for racing, art, and fashion. There will be an exclusive signing session on Saturday 7 September at 2.50pm. The capsule collection is available at Goodwood during the 2024 Revival only and can then be purchased at www.teamikuzawa.shop thereafter. #TeamArsham #TeamIkuzawa #DanielArsham #GoodwoodRevival Images available to download here: Team Arsham 904 – Please credit Photographer © Tom Shaxson Type 7 (Social credit @tshaxson @type7) Team Arsham Capsule collection Historical Team Ikuzawa archive images (Please credit © Ikuzawa archives) Daniel Arsham Lunar Phase archive (Please credit © Daniel Arsham)

New edition of ‘The Cars You Always Promised Yourself’ book released by Steve Saxty

Industry News

Remastered, signed by the author and limited to just 500 copies, this new edition charts the evolution of Ford of Europe’s design, engineering and marketing through the most iconic cars of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s as well as those that never saw the light of day Larger, with new soft feel cover and additional content, the 336 page book comes with an extra RS Icons publication and is available from www.stevesaxty.com at £89.95 Download high resolution images here Having sold out its initial print run in 2019 and with hundreds of back orders, Steve Saxty has released a new, limited edition 500 copy run of “The Cars You Always Promised Yourself’. Available now, this larger format edition charts the evolution of Ford’s most desirable coupes including the Capri, Puma, XR and RS Sierra. Spanning 336 pages, it features a soft feel cover and custom-commissioned double-page renders of cars such as Henry Ford’s unique RS2000 alongside fascinating insight from the original designers. Intended for enthusiasts who didn’t manage to secure one of the first run, signed copies are available, as a twin set with RS Icons, for £89.95 from www.stevesaxty.com. “We had hundreds of requests to reproduce the original and although we could have simply reprinted it, we wanted to do more. I envisioned a ‘restomod’ version—longer with extra content, larger to match the size of my recently launched BMW books and minor improvements to highlight what was inside,” says Steve Saxty. “As the definitive story of the design of the Capri, Sierra and RS Cosworth, we wanted to the new cover to convey what was inside.” To fully recount stories of Ford’s desirable coupes from the 1970s to the early 2000s, Saxty had full access to the company’s archive and spent hundreds of hours talking to the designers, engineers and managers that brought to life the cars that defined car culture and remain firmly in demand by enthusiasts today. Saxty’s book provides fascinating anecdotes and stunning images of the cars as they evolved from hand-drawn sketches through to clay models, intriguing mules and for some, emerging as showroom stars. Alongside the cars the public adored, Saxty also offers a tantalizing glimpse into the Fords we didn’t get. The book is filled with images of concepts and prototypes alongside their stories of why they never reached the road. Since first writing this, his first book, Saxty has quickly established himself as a definitive and respected writer on car design, particularly with his works on Ford and BMW. Both companies granted Saxty unparalleled access to their archives and designers, enabling him to tell untold stories and reveal previously unseen secret cars. His latest work, the ‘BMW Behind The Scenes’ set, is the result of Saxty spending over two years with the Munich design team and has received critical acclaim from media and BMW fans. With half the allocation already sold to satisfy the preorders, the remaining copies of ‘The Cars You Always Promised Yourself’ are now released in plenty of time for Christmas with free UK P&P. Each book includes a copy of Saxty’s RS Icons book, and retail for £89.95 via www.stevesaxty.com. Download high resolution images here. About Steve Saxty:Author Steve Saxty grew up just a few miles from Ford’s R&D centre in the UK and – having been enthralled by prototypes driving past each day – vowed to work as a car designer. Ford hired him in the 1980s as a design engineer where he, and his bosses, soon realised that his creative talent might be better spent working in marketing than drawing. Saxty then enjoyed stints at Mazda and Porsche, where he ran UK sales, before working as a consultant to automotive brands including BMW and Rolls-Royce. Now living in New York, he published his first book The Cars You Always Promised Yourself in 2019, following it up with one on the Capri and a two-volume project called Secret Fords that was followed by the critically-acclaimed BMW Behind The Scenes set in 2023. Contact:Nick Baileynick@elan-pr.com+44 7813 956664 Steve Saxty:admin@stevesaxty.com

The All-New Dacia Duster is available to order now priced from £18,745

Industry News

The All-New Dacia Duster is available to order now with prices starting from £18,745 Robust and adventurous SUV is available for just £193 per month on a 6.9% APR representative four-year PCP finance* The All-New Duster offered in a choice of four trim levels – Essential, Expression, Journey and Extreme Three engine options available – TCe 100 Bi-Fuel, TCe 130 mild-hybrid 4×2 and 4×4, and Hybrid 140 Orders are open now via dacia.co.uk or local Dacia retailers, with first deliveries in November The All-New Dacia Duster is now available to order via dacia.co.uk and at Dacia retailers across the UK with prices starting from £18,745, or just £193 a month on a 6.9% APR representative* four-year Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) deal. Building on the merits of its predecessor, the All-New Duster enhances the multi-award-winning formula with a distinctive new design, greater interior comfort and space, and the latest technologies including hybrid powertrains and advancements in safety. With its bolder, more robust style, the All-New Duster is always ready for adventure. The underbody shields, wheel-arch guards, snorkel and bumper inserts are made from a sturdy new material called Starkle that flaunts its unpainted finish with a mottled look that comes from its up to 20% recycled composition (as well as being 100% recyclable). The front and rear skid plates, meanwhile, are dyed in the mass, meaning the plastic is already coloured when the part is made. This is better for the environment since it does away with the need for painting, while scrapes and scratches won’t alter the original colour. Inside, the new, more vertical dashboard is both welcoming and practical, and combined with its more cohesive design that matches the robust nature of the exterior, the use of the new CMF-B platform creates more space for passengers and their luggage. Dacia’s new YouClip system, an example of the brand’s famed good thinking, provides thoughtful mounting points for accessories such as tablet and smartphone holders throughout the interior. It’s also a more connected space than ever before, with Expression models and above equipped with a 7-inch digital driver display and a centrally-mounted 10.1-inch Media Display that has been angled towards the driver for improved ergonomics. Wireless smartphone replication together with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is included, with Journey and Extreme models also benefiting from a wireless smartphone charger. The newest Duster also benefits from reduced vibration and noise from the road, thanks to the new platform’s advanced engineering. The platform creates a more comfortable experience for all occupants, while enhanced dynamic behaviour translates into greater stability during cornering with less body-roll. It’s more capable off road, too, with up to 217mm of ground clearance, impressive approach and departure angles, and a new 4×4 Terrain Control on 4×4 models that offers a choice of five modes to match the prevailing conditions. In addition, a new Hill Descent Control automatically regulates the Duster’s speed during steep descents. The All-New Duster is powered by a choice of three engines, including an advanced hybrid powertrain for the first time. The Hybrid 140 comprises a four-cylinder, 1.6-litre, 94 hp petrol engine, two electric motors and a clutchless gearbox. Its efficiency makes it possible to drive in all-electric mode up to 80% of the time in cities, which reduces fuel consumption by up to 40% on the urban cycle. The TCe 130 combines a three-cylinder, 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid motor which aids the combustion engine when starting off or accelerating, helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by about 10%. Continuing Dacia’s leadership in the use of LPG, the TCe 100 Bi-Fuel offers a combined range of more than 800 miles miles (WLTP) thanks to its dual 50-litre tanks. A dash-mounted button switches between petrol and LPG quickly and imperceptibly, and while operating on gas the All-New Duster emits on average around 10% less CO2 than a comparable petrol engine. Four trim levels are available – Essential, Expression, Journey, and Extreme – all generously equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and an array of advanced driver assistance systems as standard, including Dacia’s clever My Safety button that allows drivers to quickly access their preferred configuration. The All-New Duster range starts at £18,745 with the Essential trim, which comes equipped with a Y-shaped LED lighting signature, longitudinal roof bars, tinted windows, front electric windows with driver’s one-touch operation, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, height adjustable front seatbelts and headrests, manually adjustable door mirrors, air conditioning, automatic central locking, analogue dials with 3.5-inch TFT information display, and Dacia’s clever Media Control system that revolves around a smartphone docking station integrated into the dashboard. As with all models in the range, it benefits from a comprehensive array of safety and driver assistance systems, including six airbags, cruise control with speed limiter, traffic sign recognition with speed alert, rear parking sensors, driver attention warning, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, advanced emergency braking system, emergency E-Call, vehicle dynamic control, and hill start assist. From £21,245, the Expression trim adds body-coloured door handles, grey door mirrors, 17-inch Tergan diamond cut alloy wheels, automatic wipers, electric parking brake, rear electric windows, high central armrest with console storage, 7-inch digital driver display, adaptive hill descent control on 4×4 models, rear camera, and 10.1-inch Media Display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Journey goes further with dark tinted windows, 18-inch Tagasan diamond-cut alloy wheels, front fog lights, heated and electrically-adjustable door mirrors, keyless entry, automatic air conditioning, front and rear parking sensors, Multiview camera, blind spot warning, 10.1-inch Media Nav Live with Connected Navigation and 6 speakers and a wireless phone charger. Prices start at £22,945. At the top of the range and priced from £23,745, the Extreme stands out with 18-inch Tagasan semi-diamond-cut alloy wheels, brown copper door mirrors, modular roof bars, synthetic leather upholstery, heated seats, driver’s seat lumbar adjustment, 6-way adjustable front passenger seat, brown copper air vent inserts, rubber floor…

Melexis Sheds Light on Robotics and Mobility Technology at electronica 2024

Industry News

Tessenderlo, Belgium, 5 September 2024 – Melexis, a global supplier of micro-electronic semiconductor solutions, is set to showcase its latest innovations at electronica 2024 (B4.540), the premier event for electronic components, systems, applications, and solutions. With a rich heritage in developing cutting-edge semiconductor sensor and driver technology, Melexis launches innovations across various markets, including automotive, robotics, and alternative mobility. Taking place between 12 and 15 November 2024, Melexis will display their capabilities empowering engineers to support the best imaginable future: Robotics: Visitors to the Melexis booth will be among the first to see the MLX90384, the introductory product in Melexis’ innovative new Arcminaxis range. The MLX90384 is a high-resolution magnetic 2D rotary encoder specifically designed to provide cost-effective but highly precise encoder for the unique needs of robotic joints. In addition, Melexis will preview the MLX90382 high-speed encoder. Melexis’ current robotic sensor tech, combined with these new and upcoming products, promises to revolutionize precision and efficiency and enable smarter and more responsive robots and cobots. Automotive: In automotive lighting, Melexis will demonstrate the LIN RGB LED drivers for automotive ambient lighting with the MLX81123 and MLX81124, which introduce new variants for one of its most prominent automotive lighting drivers. Melexis will also showcase their solution for smart, high-speed automotive lighting animation MeLiBu®. Especially supporting EV thermal management, Melexis will also demonstrate the MLX90830 and MLX90834 MEMS pressure sensors, utilizing Melexis patented TriphibianTM technology. Applicable to a variety of automotive and demanding industrial settings, the TriphibianTM portfolio provides the unprecedented measurement of gas and liquid media from 2 to 70 bar. Alternative Mobility: Melexis sensors can be applied to a wide range of alternative mobility applications, including e-bikes, electric forklifts and automated guide vehicles (AGVs), drones, off-road and agricultural vehicles, etc. At electronica, Melexis will showcase a collection of sensors designed to elevate safety, efficiency, and the overall user experience, whether it’s for transporting goods within a warehouse, agricultural harvesting, or even enjoying a leisurely bicycle ride with friends. Find Melexis at Booth 540 in Hall B4 to see how their innovative products continue to shape the future of technology across a variety of key industries.