IT IS COMING BACK! NISMO returns to Europe with the full-EV Nissan Ariya

Industry News

NISMO is heading back to Europe with the introduction of Ariya NISMO, Nissan’s first EV NISMO model in the market. Return coincides with NISMO brand’s 40th anniversary. With its aerodynamic design, elite handling and a more dynamic suspension, the Ariya NISMO is engineered to bring thrill and precision to the roads. Will be sold in all European markets where the crossover is already available. Paris, FRANCE (July 16, 2024) – Gear up Europe…the Ariya NISMO is on its way! With 2024 marking NISMO’s 40th Anniversary and a legacy spanning 30 years in the region, the NISMO brand returns to Europe with a spark. European customers will soon be able to purchase the sleek, stylish, yet sporty Ariya NISMO – Nissan’s first fully electric NISMO model in this market. Dynamic, agile and with a bold personality, the Ariya NISMO is the embodiment of ultimate Nissan performance. Building on Nissan’s strong NISMO heritage and keeping it’s Japanese-inspired design, the Ariya NISMO brings a new level of exhilaration to the already excellent performance of the 87KWh Ariya e-4ORCE. The Ariya NISMO boasts a lineup of sharp and sporty exterior details and engineering, delivering that signature smooth electric feeling with an added spark from the racetrack. With its Japanese-inspired crossover design, the all-electric Ariya NISMO provides a fluid, aerodynamic performance that reduces drag and generates greater downforce at higher speeds. “NISMO is back in Europe! We are bringing this exciting brand back into our market with a new and refreshed model. As we push forward the electrification of our lineup, it’s essential that we continue to offer elite and exciting models to customers and NISMO enthusiasts as well”. “Ariya NISMO strikes the perfect balance of the immediate response and acceleration of an all-electric car with the mechanical fine-tuning of a sports car, resulting in an outstanding car for day-to-day driving. With its striking design and stance, get ready to stand out from the crowd!” Mayra González, Divisional Vice President Marketing & Sales, Nissan Europe. The Ariya NISMO EV crossover comes with a number of improved parts and offers NISMO tuning, which produces acceleration that’s powerful yet smooth and easy to control. Delivering higher performance thanks to a tuned VDC, in combination with high grip tires, the Ariya NISMO is also equipped with a fine-tuned e-4ORCE system for better power and torque distribution to the wheels. The model also provides a continuous G-feel and linear acceleration even at high speed. Ariya NISMO gives customers the handling and cornering ability usually reserved for motorsports. The NISMO-tuned e-4ORCE maximises the performance of both front and rear suspension systems, ensuring expert traction in all weather, without losing any of its sportscar precision. Additional precision driving is also provided for drivers and passengers with finely tuned brake pads that give reliable stopping power, whether rain or shine! The striking interior has also been meticulously designed to provide a premium and exclusive experience, regardless of where or when you’re driving. The model’s slick, black- based interior is complemented by a spicy red accent that exudes style and sophistication. This is enhanced further by the model’s special NISMO seats, reminiscent Formula E cars, providing superb grip and fit, ensuring comfort for all inside. Looking to grab your perfect car for the electric era and stand out from the crowd? Stay tuned for more product updates coming later this year. Can’t wait? As Nissan Formula E drivers, engineers and fans prepare for an action-packed season finale at the London E-Prix, visitors from all over the world will have the unique opportunity to see the Ariya NISMO for the first time in Europe. Formula E represents the pinnacle of innovation in electric technology, and the Nissan Ariya NISMO is engineered to bring that same trackside excitement and spine-tingling sensation to regular roads, delivering an unparalleled driving experience. #Ends# About Nissan AMIEO (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe & Oceania)Nissan aims to become a truly sustainable company, driving towards a cleaner, safer and more inclusive world. Sustainability is at the core of Nissan’s long-term vision, Ambition 2030. Responding to critical environmental, societal and customer needs, this strategy sets out to deliver electrified models and technological innovation in key markets globally, empowering mobility and beyond. Ambition 2030 supports Nissan’s goal which is to be carbon neutral across the life cycle of its products and operations by 2050. The Nissan AMIEO region, with EV36Zero at its centre, is primed to accelerate the shift to an electrified future. For more information about Nissan’s products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissan-global.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube. ContactsMartin BayntunProduct and Corporate Communications ManagerT: M: (+44) 07989 666412E: martin.bayntun@nissan.co.uk

Mercedes-Benz thrills with historic parade on the hill climb circuit at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2024

Industry News

W 25, C 11, CLK LM and the “Blue Wonder” in convoy to mark 130 years of motorsport The Duke of Richmond in the 1924 Mercedes 2-liter Targa Florio race car Mercedes-Benz racing cars from 100 years fascinate at the “largest motorised garden party in the world” Current photos: mb4.me/FOS_Goodwood_2024 Stuttgart. Racing cars from 100 years: Mercedes-Benz thrilled audiences with a historic parade at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. The “Blue Wonder” racing car fast transporter, who led the 130 Years Motorsport Convoy, was very popular with visitors to the “largest motorized garden party in the world” as well as on social media. Link: mb4.me/130_years_fosgoodwood In 1955, the “Blue Wonder” drove at up to 170 km/h, as fast as some racing cars of the era. On its loading area in Goodwood: a Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Formula 1 racing car. With a Silver Arrow of this type, Juan Manuel Fangio became Formula 1 World Champion in 1954 and 1955. “The unique motorsport history of Mercedes-Benz begins as early as 1894. The first automobile challenge in France is won by vehicles with Daimler two-cylinder V-engines manufactured under license. At Goodwood we showed an original engine of this type. In addition, we have brought milestones from different decades to the island, all with outstanding racing successes. Thanks to our Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, motorsport fans at Goodwood were able to experience these racing cars driving in a parade on the Hillclimb. This stood for 130 years of successful racing history and the breakthrough technologies associated with it to this day. No one else can offer that as a manufacturer. We are proud of this – competition and racing have been the driving forces of our brand from the very beginning.”Marcus Breitschwerdt, CEO Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH On the hillclimb in the Targa Florio racing car from 1924Charles Henry Gordon-Lennox, the Duke of Richmond and Gordon, started a demonstration drive in the 100-year-old Mercedes 2-litre Targa Florio racing car as co-driver of Marcus Breitschwerdt, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH. The Duke has hosted the Goodwood Festival of Speed at the family’s country estate in Sussex, England, since 1993. After an extensive restoration at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, the 1924 racing car is back on the racetrack. “It was fantastic for all of us here to see the cavalcade of 130 years of motorsport by Mercedes-Benz going up the hillclimb as a timeline. Illustrating such an important anniversary so perfectly and so well expressed was a big highlight. I also loved being a passenger in the 1924 Targa Florio car. It was a great experience. The Targa Florio has been one of the great races of the world for many years, a crazy race around Sicily. I’ve always admired the drivers that took part in it. It was a fantastic era, I think, for motorsport – especially those early years and those early cars. So being in that actual car being driven by Marcus Breitschwerdt up the hill was a big treat!”Charles Henry Gordon-Lennox, Duke of Richmond and Gordon, host of the Goodwood Festival of Speed These were the vehicles of the Mercedes-Benz parade: Mercedes-Benz racing car express transporter, 1955. Its engine comes from the 300 SL “Gullwing” (W 198). Nickname of the transporter for racing car logistics: “Blue wonder”. Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Formula 1 racing car, 1955. With this new Silver Arrow, Mercedes-Benz made a successful return to Grand Prix racing in 1954. Mercedes 2-litre Targa Florio racing car, 1924. 100 years ago, it won the Targa Florio, the legendary, tough road race through Sicily. Mercedes-Benz 750-kilogram W 25 formula racing car, 1934. The first Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow. Premiere in the 1934 Eifel race, which Manfred von Brauchitsch won. Mercedes-Benz C 11 Group C racing sports car, 1990. Built for the 1990 World Sportscar Championship, it secured the second consecutive double title for the team and drivers. Mercedes-Benz GT racing sports car CLK LM, 1998. It won all the races in the FIA GT Championship in which it started. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 (C 197), 2012. The customer sports racing car lead a one-two-three victory in the 24 Hours of Dubai in 2012. Mercedes-AMG GT3 “RAW SPEC”. The spectacular version of the customer sports racing car is designed together with RACE SERVICE. Mercedes-AMG GT3 “130 Years”. The performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach is celebrating “130 years of motorsport” with this Mercedes-AMG GT3. This is what the Mercedes-Benz brand ambassadors say about their starts at the Festival of Speed “The C 11 is not a car that you drive very casually. You have to get involved with it, with the brute force of almost 750 hp. Of course, this awakens emotions and memories of the demanding racing sport over 30 years ago. At Goodwood, the companions of that time meet – the drivers, teammates, mechanics, engineers. The Festival of Speed always inspires me with its unique atmosphere and diversity.”Jochen Mass drove the Mercedes-Benz C 11 Group C racing sports car, among other things “These 100 and 90-year-old race cars have fantastic engines, great responsiveness and a lot of power for their time. To drive it in front of the enthusiastic spectators and in the field of so many outstanding vehicles is just great.”Karl Wendlinger drove the 2-litre Targa Florio racing car and the W 25 “At the Festival of Speed, motorsport and automotive history come together in an incredible environment. This is an outstanding experience for car enthusiasts of all generations. I enjoyed immersing myself in the motorsport of that era in the W 25. I have the greatest respect for the drivers from back then.”Bernd Mayländer drove the W 25 and the SLS AMG GT3 “To drive the CLK LM again today at Goodwood was simply world class! With this car, I won the FIA GT Championship in 1998 together with Ricardo Zonta and AMG-Mercedes took the team title with ten wins in ten races.”Klaus Ludwig drove the Mercedes-Benz CLK LM from 1998 Contact:Peter Becker, +49 (0) 176 30 909 790, peter.becker@mercedes-benz.comFrank Scheibner, +49 (0) 160 8 680 266, frank.scheibner@mercedes-benz.comJulia Löwenstein, +49 (0) 151 58 610 215, julia.loewenstein@mercedes-benz.com Inquiries by e-mail to…

Recently restored Audi Quattro press car heads to auction

Industry News

Car was one of only four UK press cars Car featured in Fast Lane magazine twin test alongside a Lancia Delta Integrale Recent work includes both cosmetic and mechanical overhaul One of the most iconic and influential cars of the 80s, a 1989 Audi UR Quattro 2.2 Turbo RR 20V, with genuine pedigree and provenance, is set to be one of the star attractions at H&H Classics’ next classic car auction on 24 July. Having recently undergone a thorough mechanical and cosmetic overhaul during the last five years, the car was one of four UK press cars and is expected to fetch between £40,000-45,000. “Largely thanks to their motorsport success and technological advances, Audi Quattros are widely admired and still in high demand by performance enthusiasts around the world,” comments Lucas Gomersall, motor car specialist, H&H Classics. “However, with replacement parts now difficult to acquire, few examples exist today in such good condition as this particular version. Furthermore, with its factory press car heritage, this really is a rare opportunity to own a true 80s icon.” Identifiable as one of the four UK press cars by their consecutive registration plates, this example featured in a head-to-head test alongside a Lancia Delta Integrale in the February 1990 issue of Fast Lane magazine. After driving the car the journalist remarked, “On the move, the 20V Quattro is nothing short of astonishing; it offers breathtaking performance… In short, you simply never get held up for long in this car, even on England’s overcrowded roads.” The car comes to the sale having had much expenditure in the hands of its enthusiastic owner. As part of its rejuvenation, a pair of donor Audi Coupes were bought and used as a source of replacement parts, as well as another RR 20v Quattro for its engine. Since being bought by the vendor in 2017 the replacement engine has been fitted with a Turbo Dynamics MD147KKK turbocharger, three-nozzle injectors and a Scorpion exhaust, the result being an estimated 300 bhp. Handling the power is a new clutch and with the increase in ‘go’ the ‘whoa’ has also been upgraded, courtesy of Brembo callipers to the front wheels. Aside from the mechanical improvements, the car’s bodywork has also received much attention, including a new pair of front wings and a re-paint back to its original and iconic Tornado Red colour, following a colour change to black by a previous owner. “This car will undoubtedly make a great addition to any collection of 1980s performance models so we expect there to be much interest when it is offered on 24 July,” concludes Gomersall. Quattro fans can view and inspect the car in person from midday on 23 July at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton, ahead of the sale which commences at 1pm the following day. For more information about the car, the other classic, vintage and performance cars being offered in the auction, or to register to bid, visit www.handh.co.uk. NotesEstablished in 1993, H&H Classics is the longest continually trading specialist automotive auction house in the UK and Europe. With centuries of collective market expertise in the classic and collector vehicle industry, H&H Classics prides itself on delivering the highest levels of service to its buyers and sellers, ensuring an experience which is easy and enjoyable. Over the past 31 years, H&H Classics has achieved world record prices for classic motorcycles, cars, and competition cars such as a 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB, 1968 Lotus 49B, 1996 Subaru Impreza WRC, as well as royal cars including Queen Elizabeth II’s Daimler, Prince Phillip’s Lagonda and Princess Anne’s Bentley. To find out more about H&H Classics, upcoming auctions or for enquiries, please visit www.handh.co.uk Useful LinksH&H Classics – https://www.handh.co.uk/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/HHClassicsLtd/X- https://twitter.com/handhclassicsInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/handhclassics/YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/HandHAuctions PicturesFor a full set of high resolution images which accompany this release, please visit the following Dropbox PR ContactDanny Rughoobeer at Red Marlindanny@redmarlin.co.ukT +44 (0) 1926 832 395M +44 (0) 7739 878 365 Ref: 7376/150724

Majority of UK parents are stressed about affording family days out over the summer

Industry News

Seven in ten parents (69%) are stressed about organising affordable family days out, according to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles survey With 80% of UK parents travelling by car for days out, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles provides tips and tricks for saving whilst on the road1 Study revealed that the average cost of a family day out is £93, amounting to upwards of £400 across the school holidays While three quarters of respondents (77%) would like to go on fortnightly days out, high costs mean one in five (18%) have nothing planned over the holidays Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has commissioned Jo Studholme, Parenting Expert, to share her top 10 tips for affordable activities with the kids. Milton Keynes, UK, 16 July 2024 – Almost seven in ten UK parents (69%) are stressed about affording family days out during the summer holidays, in part caused by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, according to a new study by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.1 The survey reveals that more than three quarters of parents (77%) would like to take their children on excursions at least once a fortnight.1 But, as the crunch on household expenditure continues, many are left struggling to find affordable days out. The survey of 1,000 UK parents highlights the key concerns for families today. Chief among these worries are the escalating costs of activities (52%), the challenge of discovering affordable day trips (50%), and the considerable effort required to plan engaging, educational outings for their children (32%).1 With the research also indicating that 80% of UK parents opt to travel by car when embarking on a family outing1, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – whose range includes the Multivan, which boasts everything to keep the family entertained on the move, from seven seats to even a communal table – has teamed up with parenting expert, Jo Studholme, founder of the Parenting Expert blog, to offer parents some inspiration for low-cost days out with the family. The research by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles puts the average UK family spend at £93 for a single day out, amounting to upwards of £400 for the average family across the summer holidays, while 1 in 10 (14%) are likely to spend over £600.1 As a result of the rising cost of activities, one in five (18%) respondents admit they have no family days out planned over the summer holidays.1 Jo Studholme, Parenting Expert, comments: “Family days out are more than just a way to entertain the kids. They offer a wealth of benefits that contribute to a child’s development and strengthen family bonds. By thinking outside the box and considering your family’s interests, you can create memorable and enriching days out without spending a fortune. The key is to get everyone involved in the planning process and embrace the adventure!” Jo’s Top Tips for keeping costs low but smiles high during the summer holidays with children are: Embrace the great outdoors: nature is a treasure trove of free entertainment! Explore local parks, forests and beaches. Pack a picnic lunch, go on a scavenger hunt for interesting leaves or insects, or enjoy a simple game of frisbee. Get crafty: arts and crafts projects are a great way to unleash creativity without breaking the bank. Use recycled materials like cardboard boxes, egg cartons, or toilet paper rolls for building, decorating, or designing costumes. You could even create nature collages out of those leaves and twigs you’ve scavenged! Embrace the staycation: plan a staycation and explore your own city or town. Visit historical landmarks, local attractions with free admission days, or simply enjoy backyard camping. Get active: explore your local area on a family bike ride, plan a pit stop for a refreshing ice cream treat. Alternatively, local swimming pools offer a fantastic way to cool down and have fun on a hot day. Library adventures: libraries are a goldmine of free resources. Attend story time events, borrow books and audiobooks, or participate in some of the many educational programmes offered by libraries. For the full list of tips, visit the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles VanLife blogMore information about the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle range, including the family focused 7-seater Multivan can be found here. (ends) Notes to Editors:1Results are taken from a OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK parents, conducted in June 2024, commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. About Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles:Nearly 70 years ago, the first Transporter arrived in the UK, creating a blueprint which others would follow: a van which gets the job done efficiently and reliably. Today, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a diverse model range of commercial as well as passenger carrying and lifestyle models – from the compact Caddy, the evergreen Transporter and sturdy Crafter panel vans, dropsides and tippers, through the Multivan passenger carrier, and Caddy California, new California and Grand California campervans, to the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo all-electric models, and the Amarok. The vehicles are as versatile and dependable as Volkswagens have always been, but the range is now wider, and more connected, modern and safer than ever. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is committed to working in partnership with individuals and businesses, providing them with the best products and aftersales support, whether they’re buying one or a thousand vans. For more information visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk Press contactVolkswagen Commercial Vehicles Press TeamLaura Bignall 07557 758617Jess Bowden-Eyre 07734 855245Amy Allen 07983 535116 Press and Public RelationsVolkswagen Commercial VehiclesYeomans DriveBlakelandsMilton KeynesMK14 5AN Telephone 01908 601478www.vwpress.co.uk 02924/LB

Protean Electric leads the way in industrialising in-wheel motors with latest ‘Gen 5’ technology

Industry News

Farnham, UK – [16 July 2024] – Protean Electric (Protean), a world leader of in-wheel motor (IWM) technology for passenger cars, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and future transport solutions, announces the production launch of its ProteanDrive Generation 5 (‘Gen 5’) IWM. Protean’s new generation of IWM offers an industrialised product with enhanced performance, scalability and affordability, marking a significant advancement in the field. Engineered, tested and produced by UK-headquartered Protean Electric, the ‘Gen 5’ ProteanDrive Pd18 IWM provides world-leading performance and a fully integrated inverter, all housed inside an 18-inch wheel package, suitable for all automotive and mobility applications. Production commenced in Q3 2023 and since then shipments have been dispatched to OEMs and mobility trailblazers worldwide from Protean’s advanced manufacturing facility in Tianjin, China. Underscoring Protean’s position as an industry leader, this production launch and associated IATF 16949 certification, further demonstrates full-scale industrialisation of the most mature and advanced IWM product available on a global scale, today. This leading, certified IWM from Protean allows vehicle manufacturers to improve their products – offering a superior customer experience through enhanced vehicle space and ergonomics, efficiency, safety and performance ­– all delivering improved margin and market share for OEMs. As the technology matures and cost reduces, these benefits are proven to drive progressively more vehicle manufacturers towards large-scale adoption of IWMs. Andrew Whitehead, Chief Executive Officer of Protean Electric, said, “In-wheel motors are a critical component to the future of the electric vehicle industry. The availability of an industrialised Pd18 positions Protean Electric at the forefront of the market. This technology will allow vehicle manufacturers to adopt in-wheel-motors at scale and at an affordable price, as they seek to differentiate their product offering in an increasingly crowded electric vehicle market.” Protean’s Gen 5 Pd18 has been designed, fully validated, and manufactured to meet the highest automotive industry standards, and can be configured to a range of wheel sizes, torque and power capabilities. Offering integrated and separate inverters, 400V lead products are available today, with 800V products by the end of 2024. Protean received its IATF 16949 certificate earlier this year, and Pd18 has been granted R85 homologation. Gen5 Pd18 is already in use by lead customers as part of BEDEO’s Reborn Electric retrofit solution alongside ConMet’s Preset Plus® Electric Hub zero-emission refrigerated trailer solution.

Auto Trader recognises exceptional customer service with Auto Trader Highly Rated 2024

Industry News

Over 1,800 retailers achieve Highly Rated status on Auto Trader. Retailers to receive exclusive assets to promote their excellence across their physical and digital showrooms. “Receiving the Highly Rated recognition from Auto Trader means that our customers have a greater trust in how we do business” – Richard Mosely, Founder and Managing Director of Right Track Cars Ltd. Tuesday 16th July 2024, London – Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive platform for new and used cars is helping retailers showcase their exceptional customer service this week, with the launch of its Auto Trader Highly Rated 2024. Retailers across the UK who have been consistently recognised by their customers as providing an outstanding experience by rating them highly on Auto Trader will be receiving a collection of exclusive Highly Rated assets, including stickers and digital logos to promote their excellence across their physical and digital showrooms. What’s more, retailers meeting the criteria will also have a Highly Rated logo added to their Auto Trader profile page and Retailer Store for maximum visibility. Reviews are crucial to building confidence with buyers, and as one of the UK’s most widely known and trusted brands, recognition from Auto Trader builds on that confidence, helping Highly Rated retailers to stand out from competitors by creating even greater trust with car buyers. In fact, a recent onsite survey showed that almost 75% of Auto Trader consumers believe reviews are important in their decision-making process and would be more likely to visit a retailer who was Highly Rated[1]. Commenting on how receiving Highly Rated status has benefitted their business, Richard Mosely, Founder and Managing Director of Right Track Cars Ltd, said: ” We are very proud to have been awarded Highly Rated on Auto Trader for the past six consecutive years. As a small family-run business, having a 4.9-star average with over 180 verified reviews on Auto Trader means that our customers have a greater trust in how we do business. Many of them often comment that our reviews had influenced their choice, even if it meant them travelling a distance. Customer satisfaction is incredibly important to us, and the Highly Rated scheme is a great reward for our hard work and effort.” This is a sentiment shared by Richard Smith, Managing Director of Golden Hill Garage, who said: “Happy and repeat customers are our lifeline and best advert; they’ve enabled us to prosper and grow over the years, so achieving the Auto Trader Highly Rated accreditation for the last six years makes us all very proud and great for staff confidence. Importantly, recognition from Auto Trader gives our current and potential customers a huge amount of comfort and confidence when purchasing their next vehicle from us, especially when doing distance sales.” Sally Leeming, co-founder of First4car.com, added: “Receiving the Highly Rated recognition from Auto Trader is a real achievement and gives every member of staff a real boost. Being able to advertise this on our site gives our sales a real boost too, as it increases the confidence a customer has in us as an independent retailer being linked to such a recognised and trusted brand.” To qualify for Highly Rated accreditation, retailers must have met the following in the last 12 months: a high volume of recent reviews on Auto Trader an average review rating of four star and above on Auto Trader engagement with any low scoring customer reviews Auto Trader’s Group Sales Director, Darren Moon, commented: “Our Highly Rated accreditation continues to be an invaluable opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate those retailers who are providing an outstanding level of customer service. With consumers completing more of the car buying journey online than ever before, reviews are fundamental to establishing trust and confidence in every step of the process. As one of the UK’s most widely known and trusted brands, we hope this accreditation will help our partners to stand-out in today’s increasingly competitive market, reassure potential car buyers, and give their colleagues the recognition they deserve.” It’s recommended that retailers proudly showcase their achievement across their digital and physical dealership and every other consumer touchpoint to ensure potential customers don’t miss their Highly Rated status. Retailers posting photos of their Highly Rated sticker on display in their dealership (or a screenshot of their digital asset) on their social media channels will have the chance to win a prize. To qualify, retailers need to post by midnight on Monday 5th August 2024 and tag one of the Auto Trader Insight accounts on X (@ATInsight), LinkedIn (Auto Trader Insight) or on Instagram (@autotraderinsight), along with the hashtag #ATHighlyRated Entries across multiple platforms are permitted, and retailers will be entered once into the prize draw (per social media platform) if they share a screenshot, twice for a photo and three times for a video.

Kwik Fit launches motor insurance through Kwik-Fit.Com

Industry News

UK’s leading car servicing and repair company has partnered with one of Asia’s largest insurers From today, Mon 15 July, Kwik Fit, the UK’s leading automotive servicing and repair company, will be offering motor insurance to car owners via its website. The Kwik Fit brand re-entered the UK motor insurance sector last year, offering policies through price comparison websites. After seeing its offering prove popular and receive positive customer feedback, Kwik Fit is now enabling motorists to get a quote and purchase cover via Kwik-Fit.com Insurance features include cover for misfuelling and lost, stolen or accidentally damaged keys. Policyholders will have their no claims discount protected when hit by an uninsured driver (provided details of the other car and driver are collected), experience deliberate damage or vandalism to their vehicle, or need windscreen repair or replacement when using an approved repairer. Short European trips (up to three days) will be covered as standard, with the option to add cover for a further or extended visit. Optional additional features available to policyholders include three levels of breakdown cover, legal expenses and enhanced courtesy car cover. Kwik Fit is offering its insurance cover in partnership with Aioi Nissay Dowa Europe (AND-E); a subsidiary of MS&AD, one of Asia’s largest insurers. AND-E’s UK based subsidiary, Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance UK Ltd, is underwriting and administering the policies.* Andy Lane, marketing director at Kwik Fit, said: “We have launched Kwik Fit Motor Insurance cover to provide drivers with greater choice and cover with a company they already trust to keep their cars safe on the road. We’ve had a great response from customers obtaining cover through price comparison websites but we know that many car owners like to go direct to their provider. “We have worked to make the process of getting a quote and confirming cover via our website as simple as possible. We are confident that many drivers will be interested in a Kwik Fit Motor Insurance policy when they come to their renewal date and compare us with their existing provider.”

An extraordinary weekend at the 2024 Festival of Speed comes to a close

Industry News

Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrated 20 years with Formula 1 drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez taking to the balcony on Sunday alongside Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner Romain Dumas won the Shootout in the Ford Supervan 4.2 with a time of 43.98 seconds Monumental Central Feature celebrated MG’s centenary Event’s theme of ‘Horseless to Hybrid: Revolutions in Power’ recognised advances in motorsport and automotive technology Motorsport icons including Fernando Alonso, Michael Dunlop and Richard Petty took to the Hill, as well as appearances from F1 Academy rising stars Lia Block and Hamda Al Qubaisi 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Corsica was named the overall winner on the Cartier Style et Luxe Lawn The Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard celebrated another incredible weekend, bringing together legendary drivers, riders and showcasing an outstanding collection of cars and motorcycles, with premieres and debuts around every corner. Formula 1 Renowned as the place to see some of the most legendary drivers and riders in motorsport, the 2024 Festival of Speed served as no exception, welcoming both current and former Formula 1 teams, drivers and cars. Celebrating its 20th anniversary and marking Goodwood’s biggest celebration of a Formula 1 team to date, Oracle Red Bull Racing brought together an incredible lineup of drivers from across the team’s history. Making his Festival of Speed debut at the event this year, the Festival of Speed was delighted to welcome current and three-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen who took to the Hill on Sunday in the RB16B in which he claimed his first world title in 2021. Joined by teammate Sergio Pérez and Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner, as well as former Red Bull drivers David Coulthard, Christian Klien, Daniel Ricciardo and Mark Webber, the hugely successful Formula 1 team took to the Goodwood balcony on Sunday giving fans the opportunity to salute the seven drivers who between them, hold a phenomenal 97 Formula 1 race wins. Alongside the celebrations for Oracle Red Bull Racing, the event hosted five additional current Formula 1 teams: BWT Alpine F1 Team, Scuderia Ferrari HP, McLaren Formula 1 Team, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team and Williams Racing. Fans had the rare opportunity to see legendary cars from across the decades and meet the teams and drivers, with crowds flocking to see Alex Albon, Fernando Alonso, Oliver Bearman, Jack Doohan, Logan Sargeant, Yuki Tsunoda, Frederik Vesti, Sophie Flörsch, Kush Maini and James Vowles across the weekend. Both Oracle Red Bull Racing and Williams Racing brought their respective F1 Academy drivers, Hamda Al Qubaisi and Lia Block, with the latter driving a Formula 1 car for the first time in public on the Hill. Motorsport icons and legends Joining us on two wheels, Michael Dunlop – the most successful rider in the history of the Isle of Man TT with 29 victories – rode his 2024 IOM TT Superstock bike alongside 23-time winner and lap record-holder John McGuinness and 14-time winner and Mountain Course lap record-holder Peter Hickman. Dunlop also celebrated his recent triumph at the Isle of Man TT with a moment on the balcony of Goodwood House on Saturday. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Richard Petty attended across the weekend, as the Petty family celebrated 75 years of their involvement with motorsport. Returning to the Festival of Speed, Petty was joined by his famous 1970 Plymouth Superbird, driven by son Kyle, as Goodwood celebrated “The King” and his extraordinary career. Other drivers, riders and motorsport legends who joined us over the weekend included, the Iron Dames Julie Amblard, Karen Gaillard, Célia Martin and Sarah Rumeau, Giacomo Agostini, Karun Chandhok, Mick Doohan, Elfyn Evans, Damon Hill, Jacky Ickx, Sebastian Ogier, Emanuele Pirro, the championship-winning father-son duo of Kenny Roberts Senior and Junior, Kalle Rovenperä, Carlos Sainz Senior and and Kevin Schwantz. Central FeatureMG celebrated its centenary at the Festival of Speed this year, headlining the event with the monumental Central Feature on the lawn outside Goodwood House and a daily extravaganza. Gerry Judah’s highly-anticipated sculpture featured the Cyberster EV roadster and MGB. The two cars from MG’s past and present, perfectly illustrated this year’s ‘Horseless to Hybrid’ theme which recognised the advances in technology and propulsion that have shaped the automotive industry over the last 130 years. World-exclusives, debuts and revealsVisitors were some of the first to witness global marques and manufacturers unveiling their latest projects at the Festival of Speed, including debuts of the new Porsche 911, BMW M5, BMW XM Label Red, BYD SEAL U DM-I, Defender OCTA, All-Electric Ford Capri, Honda Civic Type R, Jaecoo J7, Maserati M20, Pagani Epitome, Pagani Imola Roadster, RB17 and the Yangwang U8, among many others. A step into the futureLocated at the heart of the event and exhibiting some of the very latest technology, Future Lab presented by Randox showcased ‘Technology for a Better World’, with exhibitors grouped into four sub-themes: ‘Protecting the Planet’, ‘Robots to the Rescue’, ‘Future of Flight’ and ‘Our World in Pixels’. The interactive hub welcomed entrepreneurs and innovators, including Dronamics, Drone City, Performit Live, sees.ai, and Shadow Robot who have collaborated with Google DeepMind on their latest robotic hand. The Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) returned to the Festival of Speed, following their debut in 2023, and took to the Hill across the weekend with the AV-24, the world’s first fully-autonomous racecar piloted by software from the PoliMOVE-MSU team. On Thursday, Durham University’s Solar Car set the first time for a solar car on the Goodwood Hill. Over at Electric Avenue – the home of electric mobility at the Festival of Speed – the exhibition focused on four zones displaying urban cars, SUV and family cars, performance sports cars and future cars, featuring the likes of the BMW i5 Touring, Honda e:Ny1, Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, Maserati GranCabrio Folgore and the Polestar 4. Cartier classicsThe Cartier Style et Luxe concours d’elegance welcomed some of the most intriguing and beautiful vehicles at the event, celebrating incredible automotive design, exquisite restoration and marked a number of…

All-new Dacia Spring: The UK’s most affordable new electric car

Industry News

The fully electric All-New Dacia Spring is priced from only £14,995, making it the most affordable new electric car in the UK Available in right-hand-drive for the first time, with brand new exterior and interior design UK version available in generously-equipped Expression and Extreme trim levels Greater convenience and versatility, with the best loading capacity in its segment and many clever features Customisable digital dashboard featuring a 7-inch instrument display and central 10-inch multimedia display Extremely efficient and lightweight, with a 65 hp electric motor delivering low energy consumption of just 14.6 kWh/62 miles (WLTP) It is the only fully-electric car weighing under one tonne in Europe and offers a range of 140 miles (WLTP) together with flexible charging options, including fast charging from 20% to 80% in 45 minutes The All-New Spring, Dacia’s first all-electric model, is widely credited for making electric mobility accessible to all. First launched in Europe in 2021, it was the third most sold electric car to retail customers in 2022 and 2023. In total, more than 140,000 Dacia Spring have been registered worldwide since its launch. Spring’s energy efficiency and carbon footprint were particularly praised in 2022, when it was awarded the maximum 5-star rating from the independent European organisation Green NCAP. Now available in the UK, for the first time, the All-New Dacia Spring is the perfect solution for people looking for simple, affordable and efficient mobility. Data collected via the vehicle’s on-board connected systems shows that the average daily trip made by Spring drivers covers just 23 miles, at an average speed of only 23 mph. In 75% of cases, cars are recharged at home. Spring has always found its audience because it has constantly evolved since its launch, with a new brand identity in 2022, then a more powerful 65 hp motor in 2023. In 2024, the All-New Dacia Spring passes another milestone, taking those qualities that made it a success to the next level. It is even more attractive than ever, with an entirely renewed and more robust design, and yet still as practical, with exceptional interior storage space for its segment. It is more efficient, thanks to carefully managed weight, while remaining the most affordable full-electric model on the market. Available to order now in the UK, the All-New Dacia Spring is priced from only £14,995 on-the-road, making it the country’s most affordable new electric car. EXTERIOR DESIGNDacia continues its mission to be the best value for money car brand that constantly redefines the essentials. Applying this to All-New Dacia Spring, Dacia wants to encourage drivers to make the shift to all-electric cars in an accessible way. A car’s design – along with efficiency, price and practicality – is one of the essential pieces in the puzzle. The All-New Dacia Spring features the new Dacia design, first seen on the latest generation Duster. It is a robust and assertive style that makes the Spring more attractive than ever. In fact, the only part of the exterior body to remain unchanged is the roof. David Durand, Dacia Design Director commented: “As Spring embraces the brand’s new design language, it is a resolute sign that it is here to stay as a key member of the Dacia family. We gave it a serious and confident design. Building on the success of the previous generation, the All-New Dacia Spring confidently asserts its own identity.” The All-New Dacia Spring is equipped to tackle both the urban jungle and country roads. Particularly compact (3.70m long) and with one of the best turning circles in its segment (4.80m wall-to-wall), it is exceptionally agile, making it particularly easy to drive. The bodywork stands the test of time thanks to the solid-colour protection strips that wrap around the body, especially the bumpers and wheel arches. The All-New Spring can withstand everyday wear and tear without compromising on appearance. Its high ground clearance is an asset when venturing over rough terrain. The highly structured, highly constructed volumes of Dacia’s new design style give renewed strength to Spring. A powerful look that comes from a clean, simple, pared-back silhouette, such as that seen on the highly sculpted bonnet. The new Dacia identity is evident in the two black bands, one at the front, the other at the rear, which meet in a glossy finish, with specific matte stripes at the rear. The two strips are framed by the brand’s iconic Y-shaped light signature, which is particularly striking with the full-LED daytime running lights at the front and the parking lights at the rear. The modern design on the All-New Dacia Spring is underpinned by decals featuring a contemporary style that adorn the front and rear bumpers on the Extreme trim. The 15-inch wheels, fitted with highly crafted wheel covers, add to the robust feel. True to the Dacia philosophy, the All-New Spring cultivates a clever and durable design. This is evidenced, for example, by the lower-door side protections which are light, affordable, easy to install, and easy to replace. As with all new Dacia models, decorative chrome parts have been removed, mitigating further impact on the environment. The same for the roof bars, as they are generally redundant on a small car used mainly for short trips; removing them helps lower the car’s weight, make it more aerodynamic, and therefore improve its range. The All-New Dacia Spring is available in a range of six shades, including newly introduced Brick Red and Safari Beige colours. INTERIOR DESIGNThe dashboard has been totally reinvented, both to incorporate elements from Dacia’s new interior design language, with its emblematic horizontal architecture, and to also integrate a new range of digital screens. Spring now features a customisable digital dashboard with a 7-inch display on all versions as well as a 10-inch multimedia central display on Extreme trim models. The colour palette and materials used for the interior have been reworked to offer superior quality, while reducing the diversity of options to better manage costs – key to the Dacia philosophy. The All-New Spring also…

McLaren celebrates maiden FIA World Endurance Championship podium in Brazil with strong performance from both McLaren GT3 EVO cars

Industry News

Number 95 GT3 EVO claims third place for McLaren Automotive’s first FIA WEC podium at the 6 Hours of São Paulo in Brazil Fourth place finish for number 59 car sees United Autosports team secure 27 championship points Both McLaren GT3 EVOs lock out the second row of the GT3 grid in Hyperpole qualifying session McLaren celebrated its first FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) podium at Brazil’s Interlagos circuit last weekend (13/14 July), home to the São Paulo Grand Prix and many memorable moments from the company’s history. From the start of the weekend the McLaren GT3 EVO cars – run by racing partner United Autosports – adapted well to the demands of the São Paulo-based track, which returned to the WEC calendar for the first time since 2014. The #59 car of James Cottingham, Gregoire Saucy and Brazil’s Nicolas Costa was fastest in the first free practice session on Friday morning, and both cars ran strongly in the following sessions, setting up an intriguing qualifying battle for the tightly packed field. Both cars qualified for the LMGT3 Hyperpole session for the 10 fastest qualifiers, in which Bronze drivers Josh Caygill and Cottingham set times to secure the third and fourth fastest times, locking out row two of the starting grid. The two cars briefly battled at the start of the six-hour race, when Cottingham initially got the jump on Caygill, who soon reclaimed the place and began to build a gap as he closed on the leading cars. The Interlagos circuit’s abrasive surface proved to be tough on tyre wear, with Cottingham losing a place in the process, but the McLaren GT3 EVO’s lightweight carbon fibre chassis allowed the drivers to manage their tyres well, and both cars stayed within the top eight while the order fluctuated as teams made their pit stops as the race progressed. Consistent pace and pit stops for the McLaren GT3 EVO cars ensured the United Autosports team could cycle through the driver stints and maintain position. Nico Pino took over from Caygill for the middle two hours of the race, while Saucy did the same in the #59 car. Both cars remained competitive, running third and fifth in class as Marino Sato and Costa took over for the final stint to the finish. While Sato held a comfortable third place as he raced the #95 car to the podium, Costa in the #59 car moved up to third place as rival cars pitted for fuel but came under increasing pressure from rivals in the final 15 minutes of the race. Using all of his knowledge of the Interlagos circuit, the Brazilian was inch perfect with his car placement to follow Sato home in fourth place. As Caygill, Pino and Sato stood on the WEC podium they celebrated a strong haul of points for the McLaren GT3 EVO. The United Autosports team secured a total of 27 points to lift the #59 car to 10th in the standings and the #95 car to 11th as the championship heads to Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas for the Lone Star Le Mans six-hour race on September 1. “This is a really special moment. A podium finish for the #95 – our first with McLaren Automotive – and a solid fourth from the sister #59, sealing the Sao Paulo weekend with our strongest result so far. United Autosports has celebrated great success in the WEC with the LMP2s, but this has been a new challenge. I cannot emphasise enough the time, passion and pure determination that the team has poured into the McLaren programme over the course of eight months, from all sides. And the drivers put it all into action on-track, with some stellar racing out there and very tough defence. The result is truly deserved. I am extremely proud, and excited to continue on this upward trajectory through the final three rounds.”Richard Dean, CEO, United Autosports “With the progress we’ve made this season working closely with our racing partners at United Autosports, it was only a matter of time before we stepped on to the podium, so I’m delighted that the number 95 car achieved that objective in Brazil. The fact that we also finished fourth demonstrates the genuine pace in the car and the improvements we’ve managed to make in a relatively short period of time. Massive congratulations to Josh, Marino and Nico on their first podium, as well as everyone at United Autosports on a job very well done. It’s a team effort and we all share in this success.”Mick McDonagh, Director of MSO and Motorsport, McLaren Automotive