Bentley Motors debuts new Continental GT and Flying Spur models at Auto Shanghai 2025

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Images are for editorial use only. New fourth generation Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible and Flying Spur models extend breadth of choice for customers New Azure variants, presented for the very first time publically, prioritise wellness, relaxation and distinctive design Includes new High Performance Hybrid powertrain for Continental GT, GT Convertible and Flying Spur Luxury flagship Bentayga EWB Azure also on display, demonstrating stunning bespoke features (Shanghai, 23 April 2025) Bentley Motors today presents three brand new models for the Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible and Flying Spur line-ups at Auto Shanghai 2025. Each car now includes a benchmark model identified simply by its nameplate, an Azure variant, prioritising wellness and comfort, and a Speed model, with its absolute focus on performance. The new Azure models mark the arrival of Bentley’s new High Performance Hybrid powertrain, which unites an advanced 4.0-litre V8 engine and powerful electric motor to develop a maximum power output of 680 PS and a maximum torque output of 930 Nm. Completing the stand display is a pinnacle Bentayga EWB Azure, finished in a Mulliner bespoke colour, Nila Blue. Far more than just a luxury car, this extended wheelbase SUV is a showcase of advanced, wellbeing technology. Commenting from the press conference, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said: “Positioned alongside the acclaimed Speed variants, with the introduction of Azure, Bentley customers can now choose the model that most closely reflects their aesthetic values and driving priorities. Our China customers and the luxury market here continues to inspire and push us to explore new boundaries, so we are excited and motivated by the future opportunities in this market with these new options. “Being at the forefront of progress and innovation is part of our DNA and now as we transform our organisation as part of our Beyond100+ strategy, we commit to being always, relentlessly extraordinary.” New Continental GT Azure and GT Convertible AzureElegant design, a lavish specification and a strong focus on wellbeing are the distinguishing features of the new Azure models. This is apparent from the very first impression of the exterior’s new gloss black matrix grille with its bright chrome surround and vertical vanes, displayed on stand by the Breeze finished Continental GT Convertible. Beneath this, a gloss black front splitter provides a contrast to bright grilles on the front bumper and lower intakes. A new silver and bright machined 22” Azure wheel design, and Azure badging on the front fender, complete the exterior package. Inside, the seats and door inners feature new 3D Harmony diamond quilting with the Azure namestyle embroidered on the seat headrests. An extensive specification includes Wellness seating, open pore crown cut walnut veneer trim, Azure interior treadplates with illuminated Bentley namestyle and contrast stitching on the leather upholstery. The Touring, Comfort and Lighting Specification packages are also standard. The Continental GT Azure, finished on stand in Light Windsor Blue, includes a panoramic sunroof, while the Continental GT Convertible Azure is equipped with the neck warmer for comfortable roof-down motoring in cooler weather. New Flying Spur AzureAs with the stand-displayed Continental GT Azure, the new Flying Spur Azure features a new chrome matrix grille with 11 vertical vanes. Other distinguishing features include Azure fender badging, bright chrome lower grilles, chrome brightware and the new 22” Azure wheel, which is finished in a combination of silver and bright machined metal. All Azure models focus on reducing stress and promoting wellbeing, complemented by driver assistance technologies for smoother, safer journeys. Accordingly, both the two front seats and the two outer rear seats of the Flying Spur Azure feature Bentley’s Wellness seating, with heating and ventilation to maintain the occupant’s optimum temperature for comfort and alertness. A massage function with six programmable settings promotes the constant micro-adjustments in muscle and posture that are essential in preventing fatigue. Other tactile and visual delights include mood lighting, Harmony quilting to the door inners and seats, Azure embroidered headrests, open pore crown cut walnut trim and the Touring, Comfort and Mood Lighting specification packages. As a finishing touch, illuminated Bentley treadplates feature the Azure namestyle. Bentayga EWB AzureThe Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Azure prioritises your wellbeing, offering a carefully curated selection of features for ‘wellbeing behind the wheel’ that enhance comfort as a driver or passenger. Developed with the help of wellbeing experts and neuroscientists, the Bentayga EWB Azure includes the Touring Specification of advanced driver assistance technologies for safer, more relaxing journeys. The stress-free interior ambience is enhanced by reduced levels of NVH, or Noise, Vibration and Harshness. The relaxing and re-energising environment of the Azure cabin, that reduces driver fatigue, through its multisensory and science-informed design, only further helps to enhance the safety of the car. Studies have shown that in 20 per cent of all road collisions, tiredness has played a role. The Bentayga EWB Azure will keep you alert, but comfortable and rested in the safe hands of your cabin. As well as a wide range of technologies incorporated in this suite, the Bentayga EWB Azure also offers elegant and timeless design tailored specifications including unique 22” ten-spoke directional wheels, bright lower bumper grilles, an exceptionally spacious interior offering a cosseting experience, unique quilted seats, mood lighting, a heated steering wheel, and increased driver’s assistance aids. Displayed at Auto Shanghai in new bespoke colour, Nīla Blue, the exterior paint colour is available exclusively to Mulliner customers. Deeply inspired by acclaimed British fashion designer, Supriya Lele’s Indian heritage, Nīla Blue draws its name from the Sanskrit word for “sapphire” and represents a seamless blend of personal history and artisanal craft. This distinctive hue, infused with personal and cultural significance, represents the seamless fusion of automotive luxury and high fashion, reflecting the ultimate in craftsmanship, innovation, and personalised expression. Additionally, as all Bentley Azure models, the EWB features the Front Seat Specification which includes 22-way adjustable seats for passengers of all heights and weights, and heating and ventilation functions that help to maintain the body’s optimum temperature for comfort and alertness.…

50 years of Volkswagen LT – The master of ergonomics celebrates its birthday

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Images are for editorial use only. World premiere of the new light cargo transporter (LT) took place in Berlin in April 1975 A pioneer in ergonomics With an outstanding amount of space in a small traffic area, the LT quickly became a bestseller with a market share of up to 40 percent in the segment Payload from 1.25 to 3.5 tons (LT 28 to LT 55) Perfect base for motorhomes as well Hanover, 23 April, 2025 – Exactly 50 years ago, the Volkswagen LT was presented in Berlin. The big brother of the VW Bus aka Bulli – which was already in its second generation at the time – successfully expanded the product range from Hanover. Volkswagen and Transporter: These two terms have been firmly linked since the launch of the Bulli in 1950. However, since the Bulli was not intended for the really large loads, Volkswagen developed a model below the heavy trucks, but above the VW bus, to supplement the product range: a cargo transporter in the 2.8 to 3.5 tonne segment. When it came to the name, the people of Lower Saxony remained cool and objective. So the cargo transporter was simply renamed the model name: LT. In the appendix, the designations 28, 31 and 35 were found for the maximum permissible weight of 2.8, 3.1 and 3.5 tonnes respectively. As with the Transporter, Volkswagen listened to the wishes of its customers for the LT, and so the LT was available in two wheelbases and two roof variants right from the start. The space-saver was available as a panel van, station wagon, bus, dropside, double cab and as a chassis with cab. In the run-up to the development, it was decided that the ratio of traffic area to usable area should be even better than for the Transporter with rear engine. To this end, Volkswagen engineers designed a vehicle with the space-saving cab-over-control design of the Transporter and a front-end engine that was placed above the front axle between the driver and front passenger seat. The drive was still provided by the rear axle. Without the engine in the rear, the entire cargo space was thus available for use. And yet the LT remained compact: compared to the T2 Bulli, the LT only grew by 34 cm in length and 30 cm in width. However, due to the new space concept with 7.85 cubic metres of cargo space, it offered more than 50 percent more loading volume. Volkswagen was also proud of its ergonomics, which had hitherto been rather neglected in commercial vehicles. The cab was developed with the help of ergonomic scientists. Thanks to this cooperation, for example, the controls were arranged close to the driver and a large windscreen and extra-large exterior mirrors were installed. Among other things, an extra ride comfort was provided by individual wheel suspension on the front axle, which was still not standard in the segment many years after the introduction of the LT. Initially, the Volkswagen was available with a choice of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine from the Audi 100 (throttled down to 55 kW/75 hp and adapted to operation in a commercial vehicle) or a 2.7-litre four-cylinder diesel engine from the English manufacturer Perkins with 48 kW (65 hp). Volkswagen replaced it in 1979 with its first own six-cylinder diesel engine. Although the new 2.4-litre engine produced only eight hp more in the LT than its predecessor, it developed significantly more torque and ran extremely smoothly – so quietly that even Volvo installed this engine in their first six-cylinder passenger car. Like the Bulli, the LT has received numerous facelifts over the years. Here is an excerpt:1983: Six-cylinder turbo diesel with 75 kW (102 hp). As a result, the LT had grown to become the most powerful transporter in Europe Six-cylinder petrol engine with 66 kW (90 hp) Optimised installation position of the engine provides space for a third seat in the cab Redesigned dashboard Third wheelbase for dropbeds up to 4.6 metres in length available 1985: LT 55 with 5.6 tonnes gross vehicle weight LT 35 optionally with rear axle with single tyres Switchable all-wheel drive 4×4 Facelift with rectangular headlights instead of the previous circular 1993: Facelift with new radiator grille and plastic elements in the area of the tail lights Revised turbo diesel with intercooler and 70 kW (95 hp) Due to its quality and reliability, coupled with the large usable area with compact dimensions, the LT also quickly became a popular base for motorhomes. Even today, a large number of them are on the roads of the world. So it came as no surprise to anyone in 1988 that, in addition to the compact California based on the third-generation (T3) of the Bulli, Volkswagen also presented a motorhome based on the LT: With the Florida, Volkswagen offered a fully equipped motorhome for four people with a wet cell. After 21 years and more than 470,000 LT vehicles produced, the time was ripe for a successor in 1996. 1996: The second generation of the LTAfter 21 years, the era of the compact and popular load transporter came to an end in 1996. As with the change from the T3 to the T4, the change from the LT1 to the LT2 was also a change into a more modern age. The LT2 was the first new vehicle to be introduced by the newly founded Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWN) brand in Hanover, which was founded in 1995. The development of this and the subsequent model series was carried out in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz. The diesel engines were now installed lengthwise under a short bonnet. The entry was much lower, and it was possible to easily reach the rear of the load and passenger compartment between the front seats. Volkswagen’s recipe for success of offering customers a wide range of products has also been retained in the LT2. There were also panel vans, station wagons, buses, dropsides, double cabs and chassis with three wheelbases and a gross vehicle…

Nissan Formula E Team vs Manchester City: How does data analysis differ between sports teams?

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Images are for editorial use only. Formula E and Premier League outfits compare how data is used in their respective fields The use and analysis of data in sports is not a new phenomenon. Even in the early days of sports, teams, coaches and players were using basic numbers and probabilities to give them a competitive edge. As technology has developed, these findings have been used more and more, with data and sports now more intertwined than ever before. Major League Baseball teams use the ‘Moneyball’ approach first pioneered in the early 2000s to sign players, while teams in cricket’s T20 competitions have long been using advanced matchups to decide the make-up and order of their batters and bowlers. Motorsport has especially been at the forefront of data usage, with sensors on cars sending a huge amount of feedback to teams. However, not all sports analyze and use data in the same way. Formula E and football could hardly be further apart as sports, yet both Cristina Mañas Fernández, Head of Performance and Simulation at Nissan Formula E Team and Simon Timson, Performance Director at Manchester City Football Club, spend their days dealing with data. The pair discussed how they use data in their roles, and how it plays a factor in the decisions made at the top level of their disciplines. “Data is really important for us for a number of reasons,” stated Timson, who has been with the eight-time Premier League champions since July 2020. “It provides unique insights into all elements of our work, including talent identification, recruitment decision making, tactical plans, injury prevention and much more. Having the right data, both in real time and retrospectively, helps to reduce uncertainty and gives people more confidence in the choices they make on a daily basis.” The process in similar in Formula E, although there is one obvious difference between the sports; the car. “For us it’s fundamentally the same,” responded Mañas. “However, we have the athlete, the driver, but then also this complicated piece of machinery in the form of the car. The only way we can understand how it works and what we need to improve on is through the data. We collect data every time the car goes on track, so it is imperative for the engineers to study this to be able to know what to do in the next session.” One major difference between the two sports is the athletes available to each team. While Nissan Formula E Team has Oliver Rowland and Norman Nato as its race drivers for the 2024/25 campaign, Manchester City can pick from a much larger squad of players, all with their own strengths and weaknesses. This gives the football club much more flexibility from matchday to matchday, where they can select the team based on multiple factors, including form, injuries, opposition and much more. This has led Manchester City to create profiles for every player in the squad, displaying the skills of each, which allows the coaches to carefully select the perfect 11 for a certain match. “We can quantify more than 20 concepts within our game model to create positional profiles and their contribution to that style,” said Timson. “Then bolt that on to our recruitment when we’re looking at who to sign. We’re able to overlap profiles of other players against our own. Sometimes it’s difficult because the players we’re targeting are often in overseas leagues with different tactics and demands, which is where the noise comes into our data.” In Formula E, with just two drivers (plus the reserve one), things are quite different in that respect. “For us, there isn’t such a thing as a model for each driver”, said Mañas. We cannot attribute numbers to their styles. We do more qualitative work for this aspect, the race and performance engineers work specifically to understand each driver style and then focus the set-up on the direction we know will help to extract performance. “When it comes to what we call the ‘mapping’ or the fine-tuning of the car, this is very much done with the driver’s style in mind. So while it looks like both cars are the same, this isn’t the case. We also set the car up differently when it comes to certain situations, for example if we start at the front or the back, depending on the race strategy. With all the groundwork in place for the season ahead, focus for both then turns to each individual event, where more variances between the two sports can be found. Formula E has a concrete calendar, so the race team knows months in advance exactly how long they have between each. In football, especially in the case of Manchester City in recent years, deep runs into cup competitions can often result in fixture pile-ups, particularly in the second half of a season. While this gives Nissan Formula E Team more time to prepare, the actual processes of the two are similar. “Our preparation for a race weekend starts about two or three weeks prior to the event,” explained Mañas. “First, we do a pre-event report, where we characterize the track and nail down exactly what we need to be quick on that particular layout. Then we have two or three days in the simulator, where the drivers and engineers work together, trying different set-up combinations and figuring out what fits best. “After we arrive on site for the event, we use the first practice session to see if we are performing at the expected level. Because of the nature of Formula E tracks, mostly in city centers, there’s usually small differences, but every team has the same issues on this. From that point on, if the driver is comfortable then we can focus on building up to qualifying and the race.” Timson agreed, adding: “Our process is similar in terms of the principle of planning and reviewing. I think the main difference is our data makes fewer decisions for the coaches…

Ferrari Challenge UK season kicks off in Spain

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Images are for editorial use only. London, Wednesday 23 April 2025. The 2025 Ferrari UK Challenge Trofeo Pirelli race series commences its 7th season this weekend with Round 1 at a new location: Navarra, Spain. It is also the debut season for the Ferrari 296 Challenge in the UK series, replacing the 488 Challenge and 488 Challenge EVO which have been mainstays of the UK series since its inception in 2019. Ferrari North Europe has confirmed a grid of 20 drivers for the season, with many drivers from previous years transferring into the 296 Challenge in 2025, as well as 9 new drivers who compete in the Ferrari Challenge for the first time. Drivers are split across two different race classes: the Trofeo Pirelli and the Coppa Shell. In the Trofeo Pirelli Class, Gilbert Yates (Charles Hurst), the Ferrari Challenge UK 2024 Champion, returns to defend his title against a number of season veterans, such as HR Owen driver Pranav Vangala. However, Yates also faces strong competition from several new drivers entering the series for the first time, including young talents Joseph Dean (Stratstone Colchester) and Callum Leathem (Charles Hurst). The Coppa Shell class also features a mix of season veterans, including Darren Howell (JCT600 Leeds), Jonathan Satchell (HR Owen), Steven Dopson, Mike Dewhirst (Dick Lovett Swindon) and Peter Hunter (Stratstone Manchester), as well as the “Three Pauls”: Dixon (Dick Lovett Swindon), Rogers (HR Owen), and Simmerson (Graypaul Birmingham). New drivers in the Coppa Shell include Huseyin Sert (Maranello Sales). The race weekend starts with Friday testing. On Saturday, free practice and qualifying takes place in the morning, followed by the first race which commences at 3:30pm. On Sunday, another morning qualifying session precedes the second and final race of the weekend, which commences at 2:30pm. Both races follow the 30-minute plus one lap format. The Ferrari Challenge UK series will be broadcast live online at: live.ferrari.com. Following the inaugural round in Navarra, the UK series returns home for the second round at Oulton Park in May. It then heads to Brands Hatch in June, followed by Donington in July. The fifth and final round will take place at Silverstone in September. The full five-series race calendar for the 2025 season is detailed overleaf: Round: Circuit: Date: Round 1 Navarra, Spain 26 – 27 April Round 2 Oulton Park 16 – 17 May Round 3 Brands Hatch 21 – 22 June Round 4 Donington 26 – 27 July Round 5 Silverstone 05 – 07 September For the latest updates on the Ferrari Challenge UK race series, visit https://www.ferrari.com/en-GB/corse-clienti/uk.

The Great Icelandic Swim: 1,000 miles in 100 days, killer whales & 130ft waves. Ross Edgley takes on a historic open water challenge – powered by BMW

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Images are for editorial use only. Ross Edgley takes on a world-first: swimming over 1,000 miles around Iceland’s coastline in 100 days – blending extreme endurance, adventure, and ocean conservation, powered by BMW. The all-new BMW iX will be the challenge’s official support vehicle, delivering class-leading range, efficiency and performance to navigate Iceland’s brutal terrain and unpredictable climate. Alongside the physical challenge, Edgley leads a pioneering citizen science mission, collecting daily eDNA samples and tracking marine biodiversity with international research teams. The Great Icelandic Swim commences 16 May. In 2025, ultra-marathon sea swimmer Ross Edgley will attempt a historic first – swimming over 1,000 miles (1,610 km) around Iceland’s entire coastline while conducting crucial ocean conservation research. Commencing 16 May, this record-breaking expedition will push the limits of human performance, innovation, and sustainability. Driven by a bold commitment to sustainability, Edgley is dedicated to minimising his environmental impact at every stroke – harnessing innovative sustainable practices, renewable energy and cutting-edge technology to reduce carbon emissions. Just as Edgley’s challenge in the water demands unwavering resilience in one of the most extreme environments on Earth, BMW’s all-electric land support brings class-leading range, efficiency and performance. Renowned for its 20 metre waves, 260 km/h gusts of wind, and storms of snow, sand and volcanic ash, Iceland presents an unforgiving test of endurance. To succeed, Edgley must swim over 30 km per day in freezing waters, navigate treacherous conditions, and share the ocean with killer whales – all while contributing to vital ocean environmental and conservation research. To put that into perspective, it’s like swimming the English Channel every single day, in water temperatures as low as 1°C (33.8°F). No stranger to ambitious swims, Edgley became the first – and so far, only – person to swim 1,780 miles around Great Britain (2018). More recently, in 2024, he completed the world’s longest non-stop river swim, covering 510 km down Canada’s Yukon River. But this challenge around Iceland will be unlike anything he has faced before. More than just a world-first endurance feat, this expedition is also a pioneering citizen science study. It will see Ross collect water samples in a unique collaboration between leading researchers from the University of Iceland and the University of Victoria (Canada), supported by Future Oceans International to analyse and map microplastic distribution in the waters around Iceland. He will also team up with the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute of Iceland and #BioProtect as part of an ambitious international EU project to map biodiversity and identify what marine creatures are present in Iceland’s water through daily eDNA1 samples. All Humpback whales and Orcas sighted during the trip will also be photographed for a unique study tracking cetacean movements and numbers around Iceland. Speaking about the expedition, Edgley said, “Iceland has an amazing history of sailing and adventure. I grew up with my grandad telling me stories of great explorers navigating every fjord, bay, and beach for the first time in the late 9th century. Now I’m a little older, I would love to follow in their footsteps, but since I’m not much of a sailor, swimming around it seemed like the next logical choice.” He adds: “But in all seriousness, Iceland is one of nature’s great masterpieces, and swimming around it represents a unique opportunity to fuse sport, adventure, and science. We’re working with some incredible researchers from the University of Iceland and the Marine and Freshwater Research Institute to conduct pioneering research that will help preserve and protect our oceans.” The entire expedition, expected to take around three months, is supported by lead sponsors BMW and Gym King. The new all-electric BMW iX will serve as the challenge’s support vehicle. With the highest electric range in its class – up to 426 miles (WLTP2) – and all-wheel drive capability, it is well suited to the demands of Iceland’s climate. EV-specific features such as pre-conditioning will allow the vehicle to warm the cabin and clear ice from the glass ahead of early starts and late finishes. Alongside transporting crew members and essential provisions, it will also support researchers by collecting scientific samples during the journey. Gym King, a brand built on the foundation of resilience and self-belief, is committed to empowering individuals to push their limits and achieve the extraordinary. As a leading force in athleisure and performance wear, Gym King aligns perfectly with the ethos of Edgley’s challenge, championing mental and physical endurance. Just as Edgley pushes his body and mind to the limit with each swim, Gym King’s presence reinforces the importance of resilience, ensuring the team stays focused and driven in the face of extreme conditions. Edgley’s Icelandic challenge is also being supported by SKIRR Adventures – an adventure travel brand with extensive experience in these waters, running yearly sailing expeditions to the Arctic Circle. A 68-foot SKIRR Adventures yacht will serve as Ross’ base, with its team of sailors navigating around Iceland as Ross swims. The yacht will be where Ross rests and recovers between swimming shifts, while its skipper closely monitors tides, ice flow, and weather conditions to ensure Ross is prepared for the challenges ahead. Colette Healy, Marketing Director at BMW UK, said, “This challenge is an extraordinary test of endurance and determination – qualities that resonate deeply with us at BMW. We’re proud to support Ross as he takes on this remarkable feat and pushes the limits of what’s possible. The BMW iX is built for efficiency and performance in the toughest conditions, making it the perfect companion for such an ambitious expedition.” Jay Parker, CEO of Gym King, adds: “Ross’s journey is the perfect embodiment of our ‘Nothing Beats Belief’ mantra. His unrelenting drive, mental fortitude, and commitment to pushing boundaries make him a true inspiration. We’re proud to support him on his journey, standing for resilience and self-belief every step of the way.” SKIRR founder, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, knows an awful lot about endurance challenges – being the first person to ever sail solo and non-stop around the world. He also…

OMODA&JAECOO shines at Shanghai International Automobile Exhibition

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Images are for editorial use only. OMODA&JAECOO debuts brand-new New Energy Vehicle (NEV) family Super Hybrid System (SHS) showcased on the OMODA with all-new OMODA 7 SHS with around 745 miles of combined range and rapid charging abilities JAECOO presents its JAECOO 5 BEV with circa 250-mile range Wednesday 23rd April, Shanghai: Marking its second anniversary at the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Exhibition, OMODA&JAECOO debuts its New Energy Vehicle (NEV) line up – the JAECOO 5 BEV and OMODA 7 SHS – showcasing efficient and intelligent green mobility solutions that highlight the brand’s rapid progress. This appearance marks the full lineup debut of OMODA&JAECOO’s global New Energy Vehicle product offering, two years after the brand’s global international premiere and less than 12 months since the UK market introductions. For the UK market, the OMODA 9 SHS will be with customers in June of this year while the OMODA 7 and JAECOO 5 are expected to be delivered in August. Under its global NEV strategy, OMODA&JAECOO will continue to accelerate in 2025. The Shanghai Auto Show marks a pivotal moment for the brand to showcase its NEV prowess. By debuting models like the OMODA 7 SHS and JAECOO 5 BEV, OMODA&JAECOO highlights its technological leadership, proving that innovation and agility are the keys to global success. Over the past two years, OMODA&JAECOO has grown with both speed and stability. From Europe’s core markets to Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN’s) emerging economies, the brand has successfully entered 42 countries and regions, established over 1,300 global showrooms, and won the trust of 500,000 global users and the passionate support of 7 million social media fans. As OMODA&JAECOO vehicles make their way through roads worldwide, the secret behind its global success is the brand’s foresight and relentless pursuit of Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology. Speed-driven growth: SHS powers OMODA&JAECOO’s global expansionThe SHS powertrain, OMODA&JAECOO’s cutting-edge intelligent super hybrid technology, achieves a perfect balance of 44.5% ultra-high thermal efficiency, 340-horsepower performance, and 1,200 km (745 miles) comprehensive range through its golden combination of a 5th Generation 1.5TGDI Dedicated Hybrid Engine (DHE) and an advanced Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). JAECOO 7 SHS, the first to adopt this revolutionary hybrid technology, is said to have market standards since its launch. It leads the segment with super high performance, super long endurance, low fuel consumption, and pure electric driving capabilities while continuously pushing global long-range tests. From its debut 1,427.5 km comprehensive range in Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand) to 1,488.8 km in the Philippines’ challenging terrains, and finally, a groundbreaking 1,613.1 km record on Mexico’s high-altitude plateaus, each test redefines hybrid vehicle endurance, proving its status as a globally proven solution. So much so that in the UK the JAECOO 7 SHS went from Eastbourne to Scotland in under one tank of fuel. The enthusiastic response underscores the excellence of SHS technology, with the JAECOO 7 SHS achieving immediate success upon launch, none more so than in the UK, which has registered nearly 2,000 since launch (February 2025). Meanwhile, the all-new super hybrid model, OMODA 7 SHS, debuting at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, will challenge the 1,250 km (776 miles) comprehensive range. The SHS powers OMODA&JAECOO’s fast-track growth, transforming global ambitions into high-speed realities. OMODA&JAECOO UK PR contact details Automotive PR Hannah Burgess hannah@hannahburgesspr.com +44 (0) 7730 570975 OMODA&JAECOO UK PRIan Wallaceian.wallace@omodaauto.co.uk

Meet Mornine the AiMOGA Robot – OMODA&JAECOO’s Intelligent Sales Consultant

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Images are for editorial use only. Wednesday 23rd April, Shanghai: Chery International, OMODA&JAECOO’s parent company, publicly debuted the AiMOGA Robot – the first embodied intelligent humanoid in the Chery brand smart ecosystem. Named Mornine, the humanoid robot is used as an Intelligent Sales Consultant that can do everything from serving drinks, leading guided dealership tours, explaining OMODA&JAECOO model specifications and even speaking multiple languages. Mornine, the AiMOGA Robot has full-stack capabilities across perception, cognition, decision-making, and execution – the ideal use case for dealer-level admin and service. The humanoid robot is equipped with an on-device multimodal sensing model that integrates inputs from vision, speech, and other modalities, allowing the robot to accurately interpret user commands, physical gestures, and surrounding showroom environments. At the execution layer, the AiMOGA Robot leverages a bionic motion system and automotive-grade hardware to support upright walking and dexterous hand operations. It has also achieved multi-robot coordination, enabling collaborative tasks such as guided tours and reception services, alongside other dealer admin-level tasks. Visitors to the Shanghai International Automobile Exhibition will be able to see the AiMOGA Robot interact with OMODA&JAECOO’s all-new New Energy Vehicle (NEV) line-up, including the OMODA 7 SHS, JAECOO 5 BEV, and hear it explain the brand’s Super Hybrid System technology among other interesting brand-level facts. With 73 dealers spanning the UK, OMODA&JAECOO has a physical presence up and down the country. So far, the AiMOGA Robot is in testing phase as an Intelligent Sales Consultant and has been used by OMODA&JAECOO’s dealer in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. There is no update of when Mornine, the AiMOGA Robot may land on UK shores however it showcases the art of the possible when “AI is by your side”. OMODA&JAECOO UK PR contact details Automotive PR Hannah Burgess hannah@hannahburgesspr.com +44 (0) 7730 570975 OMODA&JAECOO UK PRIan Wallaceian.wallace@omodaauto.co.uk

OMODA&JAECOO global turns two and launches global digital celebration

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Images are for editorial use only. Wednesday 23rd April, Shanghai: From its Shanghai origins to global prominence, OMODA&JAECOO is proud to mark its remarkable transformation in just 24 months by launching a “2 Years 2gether” global celebration. The “2 Years 2gether” campaign kicks off with “My Journey with OMODA&JAECOO,” a worldwide cross-cultural movement. From European showrooms to Southeast Asian metropolises, from North American streets to Middle Eastern deserts, owners, dealer partners, media friends, and employees capture their unique stories with the brand through heartfelt videos. Over 1,000 tributes will converge across social media, creating a spectacular digital celebration. This global movement showcases the brand’s international appeal and reflects the trust OMODA&JAECOO has earned from 500,000 global users and over 7 million passionate followers across the globe. OMODA&JAECOO has transformed from an industry newcomer to the fastest-growing car brand in less than two years. In its debut month in the UK, it achieved over 1,000-unit sales and a 1.48% market share. While the OMODA&JAECOO UK story is only just beginning – with OMODA entering the market in September 2024 and JAECOO in February of this year (2025) – the global team is celebrating its second anniversary of these two special brands, with mass success in other global markets. Behind these impressive achievements lies OMODA&JAECOO’s groundbreaking innovations in Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology. The JAECOO 7 SHS, equipped with the revolutionary Super Hybrid System (SHS), continues to make waves globally. It leads its segment in the UK and Israel and is also noted to be Spain’s top three plug-in hybrid models in its launch month. With class-leading performance, comprehensive range, and charging capability, SHS technology is redefining the standards of the global hybrid market. OMODA&JAECOO’s story enters its next thrilling chapter as the second-anniversary approaches, with a spectacle shown at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show. The 2 Years 2gether celebration promises even more surprises, from immersive O-UNIVERSE exhibitions to the highly anticipated launch of the Cyber Mecha CROSSOVER model, OMODA 3. OMODA&JAECOO UK PR contact details Automotive PRHannah Burgesshannah@hannahburgesspr.com+44 (0) 7730 570975 OMODA&JAECOO UK PR Ian Wallace ian.wallace@omodaauto.co.uk

Availability of new car models with a manual gearbox down by 57% since 2015

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Images are for editorial use only. CarGurus reveals there are just 82 models available with a manual gearbox from the UK’s top manufacturersi in 2025, versus 192 in 2015 Choice of manual cars continues to decline each year, with an 8% drop in 2025 compared to 2024 and a 58% decrease from the peak in 2018 This year, manuals account for only 29% of new model offerings from Britain’s top-selling brands (82 out of 278 available options) Six of the top brands no longer offer a manual option at all The used car market continues to offer a wide selection of manual options, with CarGurus sharing a guide to the best manual cars in 2025 The number of new cars available to UK motorists with a manual gearbox is at its lowest in 10 years, marking a 57% decline from 2015. New research from CarGurus — a leading automotive marketplace in the U.K. to shop, buy, and sell used vehicles — has revealed that in 2025 there are just 82 new models available with a manual transmission across the UK’s most popular manufacturersi, compared to 192 in 2015. Compared to 2024, available options decreased by 8%, from 89, and are down 25% from 2023 when there were 109 models to choose from. CarGurus also analysed the number of automatic-only models from the top 30 manufacturers, of which there are 196. As such, models available with a manual transmission make up just 29% of options from the country’s top-selling automakers. The number of manufacturers that do not offer manual transmissions across their model range has also increased year-over-year, from five in 2024 compared to six in 2025. Land Rover and MINI shifted in 2025 after having just one model each with a manual in 2024. Manufacturers that do not provide an option for manual gearboxes in their new models include: Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Volvo, Tesla, MINI and Lexus. Jaguar did not have applicable models for this year’s study due to its decision to pause the sale of new cars until its planned 2026 relaunch; however, the brand did not include manual options in 2024 and has announced the intent to go all-electric. These figures mark a stark contrast to just a decade ago, when manual gearboxes were a common feature. Research conducted in 2024 by CarGurus on driver preferences for analogue vs. technological features in cars found that only 28% of the 2,000 people surveyed would miss manual gearboxes and 28% would miss clutch pedals. When comparing age groups, those over 65 were most likely to miss manual gearboxes (35%), compared to 26% of 18- to 24-year-olds, and 22% of those aged 25 to 34. These findings underline the decreasing demand for manual transmissions, leading to less customer choice in the new-car market. At the current rate of decline, CarGurus predicts that there will likely be no manual gearbox offerings available on new models by 2037 (based on a rate of 7 models a year, the decrease from 2024 to 2025). Further to this expectation is the fact that many new entrants to the U.K. auto market exclusively produce cars with automatic gearboxes. Emerging brands, such as Polestar, BYD, and Leapmotor, have not yet made the list of the nation’s top manufacturers analysed in this study but are steadily taking on greater market share. Chris Knapman, CarGurus U.K. Editorial Director, said: “With an increasing number of new cars being fully electric, and the market’s general push to larger and more premium vehicles, it is no great surprise to see the decline of the manual gearbox continuing in the 12 months since we last conducted this study. Increasingly, an automatic gearbox is no longer a luxury that buyers must pay extra for, but an expected standard feature. “There is some good news for those who do still value the additional layer of interaction that comes with a manual gearbox, however. Drivers can still buy a new car with a truly great gear-change like the Honda Civic Type R and Mazda MX-5. Or, of course, they can look to the used market, where manuals are in plentiful supply.” On the CarGurus platform, there are a host of used examples of manual options. In an analysis of current listings available to shoppers, 47% are manual and 53% are automatic. For motorists who still prefer a manual transmission, CarGurus has published a guide to the best manual cars in 2025. BRAND(UK’S 30 MOST POPULARi ) NEW MODELS AVAILABLE WITH A MANUAL GEARBOX IN 2025: Audi A1, A3, Q2, Q3 BMW 1 series, 2 series (Gran Coupe), M2 Citroen Berlingo, C3, C3 Aircross, C4, C4 X, C5 Aircross CUPRA Formentor, Leon Dacia Duster, Jogger, Sandero Stepway, Sandero, Bigster Fiat 500, 500C Ford Focus, Kuga, Mustang, Puma, Ranger, Tourneo Honda Civic TYPE R Hyundai Bayon, i10, i20, Kona, Tuscon Jaguar* – Jeep Avenger Kia Ceed, Picanto, Sportage, Xceed Land Rover – Lexus – Mazda CX-30, CX-5, MAZDA 2, MAZDA 3, MX-5 Mercedes-Benz – MG MG3, HS, ZS MINI – Nissan Juke, Qashqai Peugeot 2008, 208 Porsche 911, Boxster, Cayman Renault Clio, Captur SEAT Arona, Ibiza, Leon, Ateca Skoda Fabia, Kamiq, Karoq, Octavia, Scala Suzuki Ignis, S-Cross, Swift, Vitara Tesla – Toyota Aygo X, GR Yaris, Hilux Vauxhall Astra, Corsa, Mokka Volkswagen Golf, Polo, Taigo, T-Cross, T-Roc, Touran, Transporter Volvo – TOTAL: 82 *Sales of new Jaguar models on hold until 2026, and as such they have been removed from this year’s analysis. ENDS About CarGurus, Inc.CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG) is a multinational online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus operates online marketplaces under the CarGurus brand in the U.K., Canada, and U.S., where it is the most visited automotive shopping…

Horse Powertrain debuts at Auto Shanghai

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Horse Powertrain debuts as a consolidated, independent global powertrain leader Company comprises two divisions, Aurobay Technologies and Horse Technologies, each with decades of powertrain expertise and heritage Horse Powertrain is a full powertrain consolidator that can maximise efficiency, innovation, and economies of scale Global footprint includes 17 manufacturing facilities, five R&D centers and 19,000 employees Shanghai, China (23 April 2025) – Horse Powertrain is debuting for the first time as a single consolidated organisation at this year’s Auto Shanghai. Bringing together decades of powertrain expertise and innovation from across three continents, the company is a global leader in innovative and low-emission powertrains at this year’s Auto Shanghai. Horse Powertrain is a solutions provider of a comprehensive range of low-emission combustion and hybrid powertrains around the world. The new company consists of two divisions, Aurobay Technologies, with regional offices in Sweden and China, and Horse Technologies, with a regional office in Spain, with the global headquarters based in London, United Kingdom. This delivers a global footprint of 17 manufacturing facilities, five advanced R&D centers, powered by 19,000 employees across South America, Europe, and Asia. Matias Giannini, Chief Executive Officer at Horse Powertrain, said: “We’re a new, independent global business that is, first and foremost, a problem solving partner, helping OEMs navigate through the headwinds of today’s automotive industry. We believe there are many paths to net zero, and we are driving innovation across combustion and hybrid technologies, as well as alternative fuels, to help deliver mobility for all.” The company was formed in May 2024 as an equal joint venture between Renault Group (45% ownership) and Geely (45%), inheriting the combustion and hybrid powertrain production units of both organisations, with a 10% investment from Aramco in December 2024. Horse Powertrain’s line-up covers 80% of market’s requirements. The company is researching and developing the next-generation powertrain solutions, including fuel economy and thermal efficiencies in combustion engines, new powertrain architectures and alternative fuel technologies. In terms of complete full-powertrain integration, Horse Powertrain produces complete hybrid, plug-in hybrid, range extender, and traditional combustion powertrains for a variety of passenger and light commercial applications, as well as components including motors, transmissions, batteries and power electronics systems. Horse Powertrain’s Auto Shanghai presence can be found at Hall 8.1, Booth 8A17. The press conference takes places at 1000 (CST) on Thursday 24th April. ENDS About Horse Powertrain Horse Powertrain consists of two divisions, Aurobay Technologies and Horse Technologies. It is a world leader in hybrid and combustion powertrain solutions. Headquartered in London, UK, the company employs 19,000 people globally across 17 plants and five R&D centers. Horse Powertrain’s three shareholders are Renault Group (45%), Geely (45%), and Aramco (10%). For more information, please contact: Kate Saxton: kate.saxton@horse.tech, +34 679 07 20 87 Performance Communications: horse@performancecomms.com