Kia UK extends independent cinema partnership

Kia UK extends partnerships with DCM for the third year, supporting independent cinema Kia UK now supports 242 independent cinemas nationwide following a new partnership with Pearl & Dean, including its Curzon cinema estate Kia UK continues to demonstrate its love for film with an extended partnership across independent cinemas nationwide for the third consecutive year, strengthening its collaborations with independent cinema specialist Digital Cinema Media (DCM) and forming a new partnership with Pearl & Dean. Brokered by Havas Play in spring 2022, the cinema partnership has involved Kia supporting each of DCM’s independent cinemas, which serve a fifth of UK cinemagoers, including Picturehouse, The Light, Reel, Savoy, and over 170 other venues for the past two years. This partnership has now been extended to include Pearl & Dean’s Curzon cinemas. The Curzon cinema estate is known for its landmark locations across the UK, showing an expertly curated cinema programme mirrored by the streaming platform Curzon Home Cinema. The distribution labels Curzon Film and Artificial Eye are home to some of the best independent and award-winning films. The move to work with Pearl & Dean enhances Kia UK’s support for independent cinema nationwide. Adding the Curzon cinema estate underscores Kia’s commitment to enriching the cinema-going experience and supporting the arts. Kia now supports a total of 242 independent cinemas nationwide. As the partnership continues into 2024, together with Innocean UK, Kia developed new creative content specifically for cinema. The fully electric seven-seater Kia EV9 and the family-focused Sportage SUV will be featured in prime ad spots ahead of every feature film across DCM’s 60-second ‘Gold Spot’ and Curzon screens, reaching over 12 million people per year. This placement supports Kia’s brand association and enhances its ‘Movement that inspires’ messaging across a premium media platform. Independent cinema is built upon foundations of creativity, innovation, and inspirational thinking—values that resonate deeply with Kia. This commitment to independent cinema is part of Kia’s innovative approach, taking customers on inspiring journeys, entertaining communities, and supporting local businesses. Through this expanded partnership, Kia continues to play a vital role in the vibrant world of independent cinema, showcasing its dedication to creativity and community. Sanka de Silva, Marketing Director at Kia UK Limited, said: “With an array of exciting summer blockbusters due in cinemas soon, we believe this is a fantastic opportunity for Kia to once again take centre stage, support local businesses and entertain communities through independent cinema. “We believe that movement inspires, and there’s nothing quite like the moving pictures to demonstrate this and showcase our products. We’re excited to show our latest cinematic adverts for the fully electric seven-seater EV9 and Sportage, which really need to be seen on the big screen to be fully appreciated.” Davina Barker, Sales Director at DCM, said: “We’re extremely proud of this fully immersive, integrated partnership with Kia in the independent cinema space. Year two alone increased brand perception among cinemagoers by 208 per cent and this campaign renewal into a third year truly solidifies Kia’s ownership of independent cinema, creating an unparalleled synergy with film while maximising emotional impact and cut through with an upmarket, discerning audience.” Ellie Davidson, Executive Director DIVE on behalf of Pearl & Dean, added: “We’re very excited to be working with Kia to authentically connect them with independent cinema in the UK, through an engaged relationship with our iconic partner Curzon. Renowned for its contribution to UK film and cinema, Curzon celebrates its 90th anniversary this year and Kia is marking this important milestone with them, to show its support. We are thrilled to elevate this already established relationship with cinema by offering a truly integrated partnership between Curzon and Kia, including tailored screenings and a unique upcoming special event.” Laurence Collings, Head of Client Services at Innocean UK added: “We are delighted to build on two successful years of iconic Cinema sponsorship by Kia UK, by extending Kia’s association with independent cinema with Pearl & Dean. We look forward to further developing a narrative between Kia and film lovers, enhancing Kia’s brand and customer experience, while enhancing the independent cinema experience.” Rob Breese, managing partner at Havas Media UK (part of Havas Media Network), said: “Kia is excited to renew our partnership with independent cinema, underscoring our commitment to innovation and forward-thinking engagement with diverse and dynamic audiences. This collaboration aligns perfectly with Kia’s vision as a modern and progressive brand, bringing our message to new heights and new audiences. Together, we are creating unforgettable experiences, driving our brand’s presence in a unique and impactful way.”

Luxury automotive wall art business celebrates 400ᵗʰ customer

NOTTINGHAM – AUGUST 19th, 2024 – Limited100.co.uk, the East Midlands-based luxury car prints business, is an online-only direct-to-consumer store that’s been a hit with petrolheads around the world, from the UK to USA, Thailand to Australia and beyond. Powered by Shopify, the automotive home décor business was founded by car enthusiast and marketing professional Simon Wright, in 2020. Simon added: “I started Limited100 because after moving into my first home I was searching online for some artwork of a Lamborghini Miura, which I regard as the most beautiful car of all time. I couldn’t find anything of super high-quality that was handmade, so I decided to create a company of my own that celebrates the handbuilt artisanship that Britain is so synonymous with. “At the business’s conception, I began working with a carefully curated group of award-winning photographers and to ensure exclusivity, each print we produce is limited to 100 units ever (hence our name). The edition number is picked at random for each order, unless a customer reaches out for something specific. For example, edition 8/100 is popular with our Japanese customers, and we recently had an order for someone’s 50th birthday, so as a thank you for their custom we gave them edition 50/100. Proudly Made in Britain“In 2020 I applied for Made in Britain status, and eligibility requirements included manufacturing and assembling a physical product in the UK, and that 80% of our value chain is in the UK. Because our printing and framing are completed in Nottingham from UK-sourced materials, our application was approved and we now display the Made in Britain logo on our website, the backs of our frames, and certificates of authenticity.” “Our automotive prints are available in a range of sizes, from A3 all the way up to 5 metres wide. Formats include print-only, framed, canvas, aluminium composite and acrylic glass. Fully bespoke, we can print any format our customers request. Celebrating our 400th customer“Limited100’s client base is diverse, ranging from interior designers, to homeware gift buyers, supercar dealerships, mancave garage projects, and even James Bond enthusiasts. Our 400th customer was an employee from Portugal, buying one of our Ferrari F40 prints for their CEO’s 40th birthday.” About Limited100Love cars? Make your house your home with our exclusive, handcrafted automotive wall art. Visit Limited100.co.uk and explore an unmatched selection of limited edition prints from a carefully curated group of award-winning photographers. Any size, any style, delivered with care anywhere in the world, but each image is always limited to 100. Key contactSimon WrightFounder, Limited100+44 (0)7511 954 995simon.wright@limited100.co.uk Social mediahttps://www.instagram.com/limited100hq/https://x.com/Limited100HQhttps://www.facebook.com/Limited100HQ/https://www.linkedin.com/company/42823057/

The new Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series, for the ultimate open-air experience

Two curated design concepts “Red Ambience” and “White Ambience” at market launch Chrome fin and upright star on the bonnet as well as aerodynamic scoop behind the seats redefine proportions Maybach pattern forms a stylish design element linking exterior and interior The highest level of driving and acoustic comfort Stuttgart/Pebble Beach. The Mercedes‑Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series (provisional figures, combined energy consumption: 13.7 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 312 g/km; CO2 class: G)[1] is the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history. Also new is the uniquely cohesive combination of colours and materials for the exterior and interior, with the Maybach pattern as a linking design element. These special accents appear throughout, from front to rear, inside and out. There will be two curated design concepts for the open-top two-seater at market launch: The Mercedes‑Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series Red Ambience is characterised by a new two-tone paint finish of obsidian black metallic over MANUFAKTUR garnet red metallic. In the Mercedes‑Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series White Ambience, obsidian black metallic contrasts with MANUFAKTUR opalite white magno. The exceptionally brilliant red and the elegant white both embody sensuality, beauty and lightness. They perfectly express the philosophy and driving experience of the new model. Other exterior colours are possible upon specific customer request. The interior features sustainably tanned, crystal white MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather and trim parts in gleaming silver chrome. Market rollout starts in Europe in spring 2025, with other markets to follow. “Our customers love something special. The Mercedes‑Maybach SL Monogram Series adds a sporty two-seater to our model family for the ultimate open-air pleasure. It combines a dynamic driving experience with everything that characterises a Mercedes-Maybach: excellent craftsmanship, exquisite design details and fine materials.”Daniel Lescow, Head of Mercedes-Maybach, Mercedes-Benz Group AG Iconic design refined with exclusive Maybach styling elements and double scoopIn keeping with the brand philosophy, the Mercedes-Maybach SL offers a holistic sensory experience. The contours of the brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille are illuminated, as is the finely integrated MAYBACH lettering. The distinctive bonnet bears an upright Mercedes star and a chromed fin running front to rear along its centre. To further enhance the exclusivity, the obsidian black bonnet is available upon request with the Maybach pattern incorporated in graphite grey uni. This process is very complex and is partly done by hand. First, the bonnet receives a base coat, which is then sanded by hand. The Maybach pattern is then printed onto it. Each part of the process is technically sophisticated and must be executed with the utmost precision. Next, the bonnet is coated with clear matte lacquer, sanded by hand and finally finished with a further coat of clear matte lacquer. The inside of the headlights is finished with high-quality accenting in rose gold. The dedicated front skirt emphasises the vehicle’s width with horizontal air intakes. The windscreen frame is finished in gleaming chrome. A further chrome insert graces the sill cladding. The Mercedes‑Maybach SL runs on 21-inch forged wheels in 5-hole design or multi-spoke design. The extensively insulated acoustic soft top consists of light black fabric, with the Maybach pattern subtly incorporated in anthracite. The rear is characterised by rear lights with the Maybach signet, a brand-specific rear skirt with chrome trim, a dedicated diffuser design and tailpipe trims with a signature horizontal bar. Behind the seats, an aerodynamically designed double scoop reinforces the individual look. Together with the chrome fin on the bonnet, it gives the two-seater particularly elegant and sporty proportions when viewed from the side, especially with the top down. Interior features Maybach-specific equipment and radiant, crystal white leatherInside, sustainably tanned, crystal white nappa leather creates an exceptionally exquisite ambience. It features on the door panels, the centre console and on the brand’s signature comfort seats. The seat upholstery has a new floral design. The space behind the seats is also finished in white leather. The galvanised seat backrests and silver chrome trim provide a striking contrast. The fully digital instrument display and the electrically adjustable centre display incorporate the Maybach-specific start-up animations and display styles. Further brand hallmarks are the steering wheel, the stainless-steel pedals and the stainless-steel door sill trims. High level of driving and acoustic comfort combined with superior eight-cylinder driving experienceThe highest standards also apply to driving and acoustic comfort. Comprehensive measures guarantee a quiet and comfortable, typically Maybach, driving experience. These include a noise-optimised exhaust system, an extensive insulation and absorption package as well as a comfort-oriented suspension set-up and soft engine mounts. The combination of a 4.0-litre biturbo engine with 430 kW (585 hp) and smooth-shifting 9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission with adapted accelerator pedal characteristics ensures the supremely dynamic driving pleasure expected of a Maybach. The fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive offers high traction even in slippery road conditions, thus increasing driving safety. The standard-fit rear-axle steering combines agility and stability for a manoeuvrable and safe driving experience. Exclusive collection from Maybach Icons of LuxuryAs befitting the new Mercedes‑Maybach SL Monogram Series, Maybach Icons of Luxury will offer a curated collection in boutiques and the online store from market launch. This includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag and a dog bag. Their design is inspired by the materials and colours of the open-top two-seater. The data at a glance Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series Drive Cylinder arrangement / number V8 Displacement cm3 3,982 Rated power kW/hp 430/585 at speed rpm 5,500-6,500 Rated torque Nm 800 at speed rpm 2,500-5,000 Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 4.1 Maximum speed[2] km/h 260 Drive Fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive Transmission 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission Vehicle Length/height/width mm 4,705/1,353/1,915 Wheelbase mm 2,700 Turning circle with rear-axle steering 2.5° m 12.35 Boot volume VDA l 213 – 240 Consumption (preliminary) Combined energy consumption[3] l/100 km 13.7 Combined CO2 emissions[3] g/km 312 CO2 Class[3] G [1] Preliminary values. Neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values are available to date. There may be deviations between the data and the official values. [2] Electronically limited [3] Preliminary values. Neither confirmed values from…

Star Cars and Awesome Activities of RADwood 2024 Revealed

RADwood UK 2024 takes place at the Chatham Historic Dockyard on Saturday 7th September Star RAD cars on display include a Porsche 959, Ferrari F40 LM and the Lamborghini Countach RAD-era cars, including the Golf GTi, will be parked alongside the 2024 model in the RAD to the Future area A number of RAD arcade games, including Outrun and Sega Rally, will be available to enjoy free of charge Tickets, priced from £25, available now Bicester Heritage: 16th August 2024RADwood is the ultimate celebration of the cars and culture of the 1980s and 1990s – a motorshow where power suits are as important as horsepower and where hi-tops and hot hatches go hand-in-hand, and today Hagerty confirms the line-up for RADwood UK 2024. Taking place at the Chatham Historic Dockyards in Kent on 7 September guests can expect a festival of fabulous cars of the Eighties and Nineties, along with the music, fashion and entertainment of the time. There are four featured RAD display areas – Star Cars, RAD to the Future collection, Show N Shine competition entrants and RAD display cars. On show will be some of the most exotic automobiles of the RADwood era including a BMW 850 CSi, Ferrari F355, Ferrari F40 LM, Honda NSX, Porsche 959, Porsche 911 Turbo S Leichtbeau – and everyone’s favourite Athena poster car the Lamborghini Countach. The RAD to the Future area shows how much automotive progress has been made over the years. Side by side RAD showgoers will see 1984 classics alongside their 2024 equivalents including a pair of Minis, Golf GTis, Lotus and, controversially the Ford Capri from then and now. The 50 entrants to the Show and Shine will have a dedicated display zone where our judges Joe Ward from White Goods Racing and Faye Young will be checking out the side skirts and three-spoked wheels to pick a winner. Drivers who arrive in a period-correct car will be able to park with other RAD cars in a further dedicated display area. Dressing up in Eighties or Nineties attire is encouraged, but guests don’t have to worry if they forget to wear their fluoro legwarmers or Sergio Tacchini top, as Rokit Vintage will be selling their coolest retro clobber in the main boathouse. There’s even an award for the best-dressed guest. The sounds of the RADwood years will be on sale at a record fair. A great place to find that elusive Depeche Mode album on vinyl, a long-lost RunDMC cassette or the best of BritPop on MiniDisc. In the video game arcade will be the likes of Outrun, Sega Rally and Streetfighter with all games set to freeplay. General Admission tickets costs £25 per car or £15 for a motorcycle, which includes entry to the display area if you’re driving something RAD. For £35 you can enter your car in the Show N Shine, but you’ll need to move fast as just 50 slots are available. Full ticket information available here.

The all-new BMW M5 Touring

The all-new BMW M5 Touring, the third Touring variant in the history of the BMW M5, combines electrifying performance with an unrivalled long-distance capability. An elegantly stretched roofline with a model-specific roof spoiler, muscular flared wheel arches, and deep front and rear aprons create a hunkered-down look that hints at the dynamic performance on offer. M HYBRID drive system with a combined output of 727 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque delivers exhilarating acceleration from 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds as well as locally emissions-free driving for up to 42 miles (WLTP). Flexible load-carrying capacity of up to 1,630 litres with 40:20:40 split-folding seats and through-loading capability for longer luggage items. Order books open today, priced from £112,500 RRP. UK customer deliveries start in early 2025. The all-new BMW M5 Touring (energy consumption, weighted, combined: 141.2 – 166.2 mpg and 27.5 – 25.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions, weighted, combined: 46 – 39 g/ km; fuel consumption with discharged battery: 25.9 – 27.2 mpg in the WLTP cycle; CO2 classes, weighted, combined: B, with discharged battery G), the third Touring variant in the history of the BMW M5, builds on both past and current successes. BMW M GmbH first introduced a Touring variant back in 1992 alongside the second generation of the BMW M5 Saloon. In 2007, the fourth generation of the high-performance saloon also gained a BMW M5 Touring sibling. And now the new edition ensures customers will be able to choose from two body variants of the BMW M5 for the third time in its 40-year history. As such, the all-new BMW M5 Touring satisfies the wish list of demanding enthusiasts who value the hallmark dynamic prowess of an M machine and the refined performance of a BMW M5, but do not want to forego the additional load space, practicality and long-distance comfort of a Touring model. In fact, the new BMW M5 Touring has up to 1,630 litres of flexible load-carrying capacity for leisure activities and trips away. With its fresh take on the traditional BMW M design playbook, the new BMW M5 Touring brings its racing-car-inspired character to the fore. Its M-specific design cues are focused on fulfilling their functional brief when it comes to cooling and aerodynamic balance. The pronounced roof spoiler and heavily raked, slim D-pillar underscore the car’s dynamic lines. A high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour offer visual purity and references to the high-performance sports car’s top-class dynamics, while prominently flared wheel arches, side skirts and the M-specific design of the front and rear aprons distinguish the BMW M5 Touring clearly from the BMW 5 Series Touring. The overall concept of the new BMW M5 Touring enables it to deliver an enthralling driving experience on the track as well as in everyday use and longer journeys. Alongside its long wheelbase, wide tracks, a low centre of gravity and almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution, the new BMW M5 Touring features a body with improved rigidity and enhanced aerodynamics, as well as chassis technology in a model-specific configuration that has been carefully tuned for the M HYBRID drive system. As in the BMW M5 Saloon, the BMW M5 Touring’s M HYBRID system produces a maximum output of 727 hp and peak torque of 1,000 Nm to deliver intoxicating performance on road and track alike. At the same time, the partly electrified powertrain enables almost silent and locally emission-free driving with a range of up to 42 miles (WLTP), while the Combined Charging Unit allows AC charging at up to 11 kW. Model MaxPower* (hp) Peak Torque* (Nm) Acceleration*(0-62mph) (secs) Top Speed** (mph) CO2Emissions*(WLTP) (g/km) Fuel Consumption Combined* (WLTP) (mpg) Electric Range* (WLTP) (miles) RRP Starting Price(excluding OTR costs) BMW M5 Touring 727 1,000 3.6 155 / (189)*** 46-39 141.2–166.2 38-42 £112,500 *All figures relating to performance, consumption, electric range and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited. *** Top speed with optional M Driver’s Package. The new BMW M5 Touring will be unveiled publicly at Monterey Car Week in California in mid-August 2024. It will be built at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing alongside the new BMW M5 Saloon starting in November, with first UK customer deliveries from early 2025. Athletic silhouette with elegantly stretched Touring proportions.Viewed from the side, the distinctive character of the new BMW M5 Touring is accentuated by the elegantly stretched roofline and a model-specific roof spoiler. The whole side frame of the body has been redesigned for the high-performance model with a confident, sporting aesthetic as the aim. As a result, the new BMW M5 Touring is 75 mm wider at the front wheel arches than the BMW 5 Series Touring and 48 mm wider at the rear. With an exterior length of 5,096 mm and width of 1,970 mm (matching the dimensions of the BMW M5 Saloon), the high-performance model is 36 mm longer than the BMW 5 Series Touring and 70 mm wider. It stands 1,516 mm tall, which means it almost precisely mirrors it in height. The side window graphic tapers in the rear section of the body, generating a powerful shoulder area highlighted by the prominent wheel arch extensions specific to the new BMW M5 Touring. In contrast to the BMW M5 Saloon, the character line above the flush door handles extends to the rear lights on the Touring model and brings an extra touch of elegance to the distinctive silhouette. Side skirts painted in body colour round off the muscular style. The hunkered-down body with front and rear aprons extending down almost to the road surface lend additional emphasis to the physically imposing proportions. The aerodynamically and aeroacoustically optimised M exterior mirror caps are painted in Black high-gloss and can be specified as an option in carbon fibre. Broad, powerful rear end with monolithic surface treatment.The new…

Rolls-Royce presents Phantom Scintilla Private Collection: A tribute to the Spirit of Ecstasy

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reveals Phantom Scintilla Private Collection Inspired by the grace, dynamism and ethereal beauty of the Spirit of Ecstasy Spirit of Ecstasy figurine rendered in exquisite ceramic finish Recalls the inspiration for the figurine: the Greek marble sculpture ‘Winged Victory of Samothrace’ ‘Celestial Pulse’ Gallery artwork and animated Bespoke Starlight Headliner capture the fleeting presence of the Spirit of Ecstasy Coach doors and seats feature embroidery comprising 869,500 stitches The most complex interior door design ever seen in a Rolls-Royce motor car Based on Phantom Extended, the ultimate canvas for Bespoke commissions All 10 examples allocated to clients worldwide through Rolls-Royce Private Office network “Speed with silence, the absence of vibration, the mysterious harnessing of great energy, and a beautiful living organism of superb grace.”Claude Johnson, Managing Director, Rolls-Royce Limited – Original brief for a Rolls‑Royce figurine (1910)“The unveiling of a Private Collection is always a landmark moment. These rare and collectable motor cars, limited to just a handful of examples worldwide, are true masterpieces. They illustrate the boundless ingenuity and skill of the creatives and craftspeople at the Home of Rolls-Royce and stimulate ideas among our clients for their own commissions. They also affirm Rolls-Royce’s status as an authentic luxury house. We do not simply build motor cars — we create rare, complex and exquisitely crafted super-luxury products that are highly prized by collectors today and will be cherished long into the future. Crafting exquisite Bespoke products and shaping extraordinary experiences directly responds to the requirements of today’s super-luxury consumers. This approach will continue to shape our business. We will grow our global network of VIP-only Private Office outposts, where our designers collaborate directly with our clients to co-create the most extraordinary motor cars, wherever they are in the world. We will expand our home in Goodwood to grow the scale of our Bespoke offering, and we will continue to craft the most intricate and sophisticated experiences and Bespoke luxury goods in the world. Phantom Scintilla, which honours our enduring muse, the Spirit of Ecstasy, is the perfect expression of these principles.”Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars For more than a century, the Spirit of Ecstasy has symbolised elegance and human achievement, inspiring countless works of art, from music to photography and moving image. In 2024, the year the marque celebrates its 120th anniversary, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars pays homage to its timeless muse in a unique Private Collection, named Phantom Scintilla. Based on Phantom Extended – the ultimate canvas for personalisation – this magnificent collection celebrates the ethereal beauty, grace and legacy of the Spirit of Ecstasy. Limited to just ten examples worldwide, Rolls-Royce Phantom Scintilla’s design evokes the wonder of the Spirit of Ecstasy’s fleeting presence: its exquisite interior features were inspired by the apparent movement of her robes, as the motor car glides by. Graceful Bespoke embroidery flowing throughout the interior captures the Spirit of Ecstasy’s elegant dynamism, culminating in a complex Gallery artwork. Carefully curated design features allude to the figurine’s origins with their references to Parian Marble: it was in this famed material that, more than 2,000 years ago, an unknown genius of Classical Greece sculpted The Winged Victory of Samothrace, the statue that inspired Claude Johnson’s original idea for a Rolls‑Royce mascot. Phantom Scintilla derives its name from the Latin word for ‘spark’ – a bright flash, witnessed only for an instant. This refers to Claude Johnson’s first flash of inspiration for a mascot, the aforementioned Greek statue, and captures the Spirit of Ecstasy’s ethereal grace – something glimpsed only for a moment as the motor car passes by, but which leaves a lasting impression. A NEW CHAPTER TO AN OLD STORYIn 1910, Rolls-Royce Managing Director Claude Johnson commissioned sculptor and illustrator Charles Sykes to create a Rolls-Royce mascot. Johnson already had an inspiration in mind: on a trip to Paris, he had visited the Louvre and been greatly impressed by the Greek marble statue of a deity descending from the heavens – The Winged Victory of Samothrace, which dates from 190 BCE. Sykes, however, felt the statue was too domineering to be a suitable subject. Having often travelled in Silver Ghosts, he believed a more delicate, ethereal figure would better express the marque’s grace, silence and subtle power. It is now generally accepted that he took his inspiration for what would become the Spirit of Ecstasy from Eleanor Thornton, Lord Montagu’s secretary and paramour. In creating Phantom Scintilla, the Bespoke Collective has reclaimed some of Johnson’s original inspiration, by introducing new materials and subtle references to the captivating vision of The Winged Victory of Samothrace. MATERIAL MAGICThe famed statue is sculpted in Parian marble, a fine-grained white marble quarried during the classical era on the Greek island of Paros. Known for its purity and radiance, this material allows light to penetrate to a depth of several centimetres, giving it a lustre that appears to come from within. For Phantom Scintilla, the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine has been given a ceramic finish that skilfully alludes to the texture of Parian marble, while retaining its familiar femininity and ethereality – a Rolls-Royce icon that finally unites the visions of both Johnson and Sykes. “We were fascinated with the qualities of Parian marble, and this material became the subject of our research for many months. To create a clear and elegant connection to the famed statue, we developed a ceramic finish that captures the translucence and purity of this unique stone, and perfectly embraces the ethereal nature of our icon”.Celina Mettang, Bespoke Colour and Material Designer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. EXTERIOR: GREEK INSPIRATION Phantom Scintilla’s exterior is presented in a two-tone Bespoke finish. The upper body is in Andalusian White, with the lower body in Thracian Blue, inspired by the colours of the sea around the island of Samothrace, whence the statue of The Winged Victory of Samothrace originates. A subtle metallic flake mimics the sparkle of sunlight on the water. The hand-painted double Coachline and Wheel Pinstripes in Spirit Blue complete the graceful exterior. INTERIOR: EXPRESSIVE MOVEMENTThe interior…

Maserati GT2 Stradale. World premiere of new super sports car at Monterey Car Week 2024

Also on stage at The Quail are the MC20 Icona, on display for the first time in North America, and the MCXtrema, featuring at Laguna Seca with the delivery of the first model Monterey, CA, 16 August 2024 – Its name is Maserati GT2 Stradale, the new super sports car by Maserati receiving its world premiere at the 2024 Monterey Car Week in California.On Friday 16 August, the car was unveiled to the public gathered for the unmissable annual event in the renowned US resort, in the prestigious setting of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, the highlight of the motorsport week dedicated to connoisseurs and enthusiasts. Maserati GT2 Stradale is an ode to the most extraordinary and exclusive sportiness, the result of a technical and stylistic partnership between the Maserati GT2, a masterpiece of performance created for the brand’s return to GT competitions, and Maserati MC20, an iconic Trident car imbued with an unmistakable style. Starting from an already excellent basis, Maserati has developed a car that can combine the best of the brand’s racing and mass production, transferring the hallmarks of the track model and ensuring a further evolution of its most beloved super sports car. The Maserati GT2 Stradale combines in-depth technology transfer of the purest performance, typical of a racing car, combined with the intrinsic qualities of the MC20. The new super sports car thus evokes style and racing performance, while ensuring an ideal feeling and comfort in all conditions of use, without sacrificing the best driving experience on the road, typical of Maserati’s offering. With a top speed of over 320 km/h, maximum output increased to 640 hp (10 hp more than the MC20), a weight decreased by 60 kg and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, Maserati GT2 Stradale promises unparalleled sensations and superior performance, partly thanks to its sophisticated aerodynamics and attractive design inherited from its racing sibling.At the wheel, the feeling will be one of driving one of the most incredible track cars there is, with the opportunity to make the best of it on roads all over the world. The leading features of Maserati GT2 Stradale are the wide range of options, the opportunities for customisation with packages dedicated to improving performance, the quest for a bolder aggressive aesthetic, the exclusive Fuoriserie content, and the specific configurations (availability varies between markets). Davide Grasso, Maserati CEO: “Maserati GT2 Stradale is a unique product, bringing together as it does the brand’s greatest sporting heritage, and at the same time representing evolution of one of Maserati’s most iconic vehicles, the MC20 halo car. This model intended for everyday driving was created based on the desire to offer our customers more and more in terms of technical mastery, innovation, design and emotions in road driving: on the one hand, we find sophisticated solutions reserved for models designed for track use only, the epitome of Maserati’s racing DNA; on the other, we can guarantee optimal comfort paired with all the most advanced driver assistance systems. Maserati GT2 Stradale is a product that can fulfil the requirements of the most discerning enthusiasts, a new creation that expresses the brand’s entire essence.” At the world premiere of the Maserati GT2 Stradale at The Quail, two other spectacular Trident cars were also present: MC20 Icona, making its North American debut, and MCXtrema, featuring at Laguna Seca in an event dedicated to the delivery of the first model of Maserati’s ‘beast’ on the track. Unveiled in June this year, the MC20 Icona is a special series created to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the brand’s return to the track in the GT championships, with the unforgettable and victorious MC12. Produced in a limited edition of 20 units, in its characteristic Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale livery, the MC20 Icona is a tribute to a Maserati of the past beloved by fans of production cars with a competitive nature, the 2004 MC12 Stradale: with the 12-cylinder Ferrari-derived engine, it represented Maserati in its most extreme performance form and was created specifically for type approval in international GT competitions. In 2024, MCXtrema is back on stage at The Quail to follow its 2023 world premiere and is preparing for another exclusive event to mark the delivery of the first of the 62 models produced worldwide – on 18 August at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Made and type-approved for track use only, with its 730 hp of power and bold, refined design, MCXtrema was immediately conceived as an unconventional product: a super sports car dedicated to a selected clientele that is extremely discerning in terms of performance and technical excellence. Maserati MCXtrema is now the Italian brand’s most powerful track car, an exciting vehicle car from all points of view that is destined to dictate the pace of Maserati’s future, elevating its racing spirit. Maserati S.p.A.Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally. Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The GranTurismo is available with both…

New Venom F5 ‘Stealth Series’ Celebrates Extreme Personalization

Hennessey’s ultra-limited Stealth Series pairs exceptional craftmanship with extreme performance +$3m ‘Hypersonic Blue’ Stealth Series F5 confirmed as final Revolution Roadster build Stealth Series trio sold out ahead of Monterey Car Week public debut Images: New Hennessey Venom F5 ‘Stealth Series’ in ‘Elemental Green’ Sealy, Texas (Aug 16, 2024) – Hennessey Special Vehicles, the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer, has revealed the ‘Stealth Series’ – a new, ultra-limited trio of its 1,817 bhp Venom F5 hypercar. Celebrating intricate, skilled craftmanship and the finest, most elaborate individualization options, just three models are to be built to the exclusive Stealth Series specification. Only available on track-focused Revolution models, the Stealth Series balances exposed carbon fiber, in black and tinted forms, with painstakingly hand-painted body panels. Unique to the Stealth Series, the exposed carbon fiber runs from the nose-mounted ‘H-badge’ down the entire spine of the hypercar. The exposed carbon ‘reveal’ initially broadens to meet the windscreen before flowing over the roof and narrowing organically – past the engine cover for the 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged ‘Fury’ motor – right to rear deck’s trailing edge above the mid-mounted quad tailpipes. Beyond the meticulous engineering and construction of the car and its powertrain, each Stealth model requires around 2,350 manhours just to create the flawless carbon fiber body and chassis, with a further 650 to 750 manhours to complete each complex paint treatment. Craftsmen hand lay the cosmetic carbon fiber, hand-paint every exterior panel, painstakingly upholster every piece of the dash, seats, and doors, embroider the ‘Hennessey’ script, and include personalized ‘easter eggs’ – unique to each customer. Every detail is considered in the utmost detail by Hennessey’s design team, from using the finest hand-laid carbon fiber found anywhere in the automotive industry, to the imperceptible surface changes from exposed carbon, to paint, to accent color on the bodywork. Just three of the uniquely American models make up the ultra-exclusive series of Venom F5 hypercars. Part of the 99-car total Venom F5 production run, all three models sold even before the series was shown at The Quail, during Monterey Car Week. John Hennessey, company founder and CEO: “Everyone knows that the Venom F5 is the most extreme, powerful, and visceral pure-combustion hypercar in the world, but the real selling point for our customers is the craftmanship, quality, beauty, and attention to detail. Combining all these elements into the Stealth Series creates a unique art piece that celebrates the finest craftmanship alongside raw, visceral, unapologetic American horsepower.” Hennessey’s design team works closely with Stealth Series owners to curate a specification that will achieve immortality through careful, thoughtful personalization. For example, unique features on the Stealth Series specifications shown at The Quail include tinted carbon fiber inside and out, body color-matched brake calipers, and personal racing numbers ghosted into the carbon fiber. Nathan Malinick, Hennessey Director of Design: “In creating the unique specification for the limited-edition Venom F5 Stealth Series, we were inspired by the hypercar’s aerodynamic form and the beauty, authenticity, and craftmanship of its exposed carbon fiber. The Stealth Series is a ‘best of both worlds’ presentation of exquisite, exposed carbon fiber and world-class, impactful paintwork that accentuates the F5’s form.” Hennessey debuted the Venom F5 Stealth Series at The Quail on Friday August 16 during Monterey Car Week in California. The Hennessey display featured a Revolution Roadster and Revolution Coupe version of the Stealth Series cars with attendees able to soak up the quality and attention to detail in the Californian sun. While exact customer specification costs remain private, the complete build price for each Stealth Series car exceeds $3 million. The third Stealth Series model is a Venom F5 Revolution in coupe form. Distinguishing the track-honed Revolution from its regular Coupe sibling is a full-width rear-mounted carbon fiber wing, roof-mounted air scoop, a significantly larger front splitter and rear diffuser. The Revolution features reworked suspension, engine cooling, and digital telemetry alongside dive planes ahead of each front wheel that channel air to improve grip at turn-in. In March this year, a Revolution coupe confirmed the Venom F5’s status as ‘America’s Hypercar’ by setting a new production car lap record of 2:10.90 at Circuit of The Americas. The company then turned its engineering focus to a push towards the car’s +300 mph V-max, building on the 271.6 mph set during its development. Continuing its evolution, Hennessey set a production car World Record speed achieving 221.92 mph in the standing half mile. Design, specification, and assembly of each Venom F5 is carried out just 100 miles from COTA at Hennessey’s HQ in Sealy, Texas. Hennessey has already built and delivered 24 Venom F5 Coupe, Roadster, and Revolution models to customers across the U.S. and around the world with a further 16 orders booking out build slots through 2024 and 2025. Potential buyers can apply to own a Venom F5 at HennesseySpecialVehicles.com. Alternatively, interested parties can call Hennessey on +1 979 885 1300, or contact the company’s network of U.S. and international retailers.

Automobili Pininfarina Battista Targamerica: the world’s first coach-built electric hypercar delivered to a client

Battista Targamerica is the first one-off coach-built model from Automobili Pininfarina delivered to a client World’s first coach-built electric hypercar, and latest example of the brand’s promise ‘Dream Cars. Made Real.’ A star attraction at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering during Monterey Car Week, then being delivered to its commissioning client Design team worked intimately with the client to curate every detail, including personalised elements such as the cigar humidor Battista Targamerica name co-curated with the client to reference its open-top body style and new permanent home Coach-built masterpiece offers unique open-top driving experience through redesigned carbon fibre bodywork and monocoque Battista Targamerica retains the breath-taking performance of Italy’s most powerful road-legal car Images available to download here (MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA – 15 AUGUST 2024) Automobili Pininfarina has removed the covers – and the roof – from a unique one-off car, Battista Targamerica, the world’s first coach-built electric hypercar delivered to a client. Battista Targamerica will receive its world premiere at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering as part of this month’s Monterey Car Week, the perfect venue for such an exclusive piece of automotive art. A design masterpiece, it is the first client-commissioned coach-built car from Automobili Pininfarina, and as such exemplifies perfectly the brand’s philosophy of ‘Dream Cars, Made Real.’ Commissioned by a renowned car collector and existing Battista owner, the design team worked intimately with the client to inspire and create an extensive list of personalisations that help it stand out as a one-off design and technical statement. Hand-built by the atelier’s artisans in Cambiano in collaboration with Pininfarina SpA, it is a complete expression of its owner’s personality reflecting their individuality and history, their tastes, interests and unique life story. Immediately following the event, the car will take pride of place within one of the world’s finest private and highly curated collections of rare, classic and modern performance car icons. Battista Targamerica features a striking silver and blue colour scheme along with a meticulous re-engineering of the body to suit the roofless profile and deliver a unique open-top driving experience. It also incorporates elements of Automobili Pininfarina’s award-winning PURA design philosophy, a futuristic vision of timeless luxury. In common with every Battista, it is a unique, hand-crafted masterpiece and a reflection of the client’s personality. Paolo Dellachà, Chief Executive Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, said: “This is a seminal moment, delivering our first coach-built one-off vehicle to a client. Battista Targamerica, like no other vehicle before, demonstrates the infinite possibilities our highly skilled team can design and engineer. Our world-class artisans have delivered something truly special – the first electric open top hypercar designed specifically to a very exacting client’s own specification.” Many details of Battista Targamerica were inspired by one of the most famous one-off cars designed by Pininfarina – the 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Spider, created for Gianni Agnelli to mark his 20 years as Chairman of Fiat. The car was a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, just like Battista Targamerica. The stunning silver exterior finish enhanced with subtle blue and black detailing of the profile is a clear tribute to the Testarossa Spider, as are the horizontal feature lines of the rear luggage opening on Battista Targamerica. The new car was commissioned during the 2023 Monterey Car Week, with development of this coach-built masterpiece, from conception to delivery, taking exactly one year and underscoring the painstaking diligence of the artisans at Cambiano. The vehicle contains several elements personal to the client, referencing their life and achievements. A unique feature is its cigar holder and humidor, a completely customised element built directly into the cabin between the two seats. This bespoke aluminium and glass case exemplifies the elegant fusion of luxury with technology, embedded within the vehicle’s DNA as a reflection of its owner’s lifestyle and a statement of the vehicle’s truly personalised nature. As a demonstration of the attention to detail, the space – which can hold up to three cigars – is back-lit and illuminated to match the corresponding colours of the five driving modes: Calma, Pura, Energica, Furiosa and Carattere, which are Green, Iconica Blu, Orange, Red and Yellow respectively. Even the car’s name, Battista Targamerica, was a collaboration between the client and the design team, referencing its roofless body style as well as the country in which the car will be based. Dave Amantea, Chief Design Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, said: “The Battista Targamerica is at the frontier of design. An exceptional vehicle that stands at the vanguard of performance and luxury. The gauntlet was thrown down for us to create something that uniquely represents the personality of this vehicle’s owner. This is the service we provide to clients, and the team has more than delivered. The result is our first coach-built one-off vehicle, a Targa that bears the badge of Automobili Pininfarina. Battista Targamerica will forever stand as a one-of-its-kind vehicle and will never be repeated.” In keeping with the rarity of the vehicle, while retaining signature Automobili Pininfarina elements, the exterior is delivered in a pure, striking, silver Argento Liquido Gloss, detailed with Iconica Blu Gloss accents along the bodyside and aero wings in front of the rear wheels. The rear underwing is hand-finished by an Automobili Pininfarina artisan, painstakingly painting Iconica Blu pinstripes the full width of the wing as a demonstration of the attention to detail. The exterior look is completed with one-off, ceramic-polished five-spoke alloy rims with contrast black anodised aluminium centre caps. This is complemented by the brushed and anodised jewellery pack, with bespoke one-off door plates. Inside, Battista Targamerica is upholstered in supple tan leather, with a contrast black leather steering wheel and dashboard. The headrests are bespoke, featuring an embossed Automobili Pininfarina ‘F’ logo, alongside unique décor and design details specific to the owner. A bespoke tailored luggage set has also been specified, finished in the same tan leather as the upholstery and embossed with a Battista Targamerica silhouette. Such attention to detail guarantees that this coach-built one-off both reflects and complements the owner’s busy…

Mattel, AirConsole, and BMW Group announce World Premiere of UNO® Car Party! for In-Car Gaming

UNO® Car Party! will begin rolling out to over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles through AirConsole starting August 21st Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market. Mattel, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAT), AirConsole, and BMW Group announced today that Mattel’s classic card game UNOTM will be revealed next week for in-car gaming in Cologne, Germany at gamescom 2024, the world’s largest, leading event for video games. Visitors to the AirConsole booth (Hall 10.1, Stand B028 – C029) will be the first to experience UNO® Car Party! in the new BMW X3, which tailors the world’s #1 card game* for in-car gaming. The game will roll out via the AirConsole platform to over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles over-the-air on August 21st. “We continue to increase the value of the overall digital experience for our customers,” said Stephan Durach, Senior Vice President of the BMW Group Development Connected Company and Technical Operations. “Our partners AirConsole and Mattel are helping make in-car gaming into a new social experience, and I am thrilled to offer a family-favorite game like UNO for this exciting innovation.” Mattel, AirConsole and BMW Group have transformed UNO into a playable connected game in a brand-new environment: the car. Whether a family is at rest during a road trip or a group of friends stop to figure out their next move, stationary drivers can use AirConsole’s unique game controller system to connect any passenger to the game using their personal devices. Up to four players can experience the game that brings people together through its simple, universal gameplay that transcends languages and cultures. Vehicles must be in park to enable gameplay. “UNO beautifully illustrates the strengths of AirConsole with a game accessible to everyone, a bespoke integration to the car hardware and our phone-controlled gaming experience,” said Anthony Cliquot, CEO of AirConsole. “Each player can secretly see their own cards on their phone while playing on the infotainment system of the car. This is an experience that would be impossible to achieve using only touchscreen or bluetooth controls on the infotainment system.” “UNO is perfect for in-car gaming because it’s highly engaging and brings people together,” said Erika Winterholler, Head of Business Development, Digital Gaming at Mattel. “Its simple rules are easy to learn and endlessly captivating, making it ideal for both short pit stops and extended play sessions. UNO’s social nature turns every journey into a fun experience, and we’re so excited to bring this spirit to consumers in an innovative way with our partners at BMW and AirConsole.” Since 2022, the partnership between the BMW Group and AirConsole has been pioneering in-car gaming, bringing intuitive and innovative gameplay to BMW vehicles through the AirConsole platform. Its selection of games has grown since the introduction of AirConsole, with popular games such as “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”, which launched as an in-car world premiere in collaboration between Sony Pictures Television, BMW Group and AirConsole. AirConsole is available in current models with BMW / MINI Operating System 9 in combination with BMW Digital Premium / MINI Connected Package and with BMW Operating System 8.5** in combination with BMW ConnectedDrive Professional. Over the past five decades, UNO has maintained its legacy as a game with wildly unpredictable fun, spirited competition, and inclusivity. UNO continues to surprise and delight fans through innovative offerings from top-line physical products, mobile games, live gaming events and premium collective card games; inclusive gameplay through products like UNO Braille and culturally relevant product from fan-created UNO memes to the UNO Artiste series featuring the artwork of artists from yesterday and today. *Source: Circana/Retail Tracking Service/G10/JAN-DEC 2023/Games Excl Trade Card Game Subsegment/Projected USD **Available in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, USA. In Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Thailand, South Africa, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia only available with Personal eSIM and BMW Operating System 8.5. Not available in BMW 2 Series Coupe, 3 Series and 4 Series.