EV drivers can plug-in for profit with Ohme

Industry News

Ohme, the UK’s fastest-growing dynamic EV home charging company, has been helping EV drivers to plug-in for profit with the CrowdFlex energy trial. The CrowdFlex trial is an Ofgem project involving Ohme, led by the Electricity System Operator for Great Britain, ESO. Ohme’s aim was to incentivise EV drivers to plug-in more. The summer trial ran over three months between May and July. Ohme customers who chose to participate in the trial were asked to simply plug in their EVs whenever they were parked at home. Plugging-in enabled them to earn rewards – any pre-set charging schedule was unaffected. The result was 80% more customers plugging in their EVs during the day and 50% more overnight. Increasing plug-in rates meant more EVs were available to provide helpful grid services – like shifting electricity consumption outside of peak demand. The data gathered from the trial will provide a better understanding of the level to which EV drivers can have a larger role in balancing the electricity grid in the future. “Ohme’s summer trial results with CrowdFlex were encouraging and we saw a very positive response rate from our customers,” said David Watson, Ohme CEO, “Grid flexibility services are estimated to be able to save consumers £10 billion per year in energy costs by 2050*, so it was great to be able reward our customers for plugging-in more and being a key driver of that flexibility. All they had to do was park up, plug in and let Ohme take care of the rest.” “It’s exciting to see the first signs of the potential for domestic flexibility to help reliably manage the grid,” said Sanna Atherton, CrowdFlex Project Lead at the ESO. “CrowdFlex is developing this deeper understanding of consumer flexibility and forecasting, and will start to establish domestic flexibility as a predictable resource for the control room, also helping consumers reduce their energy costs and another step towards decarbonisation of the energy system.” After the success of the summer trial, Ohme will be involved in a similar winter trial from September until April. This trial will see an increased number of drivers rewarded for altering their behaviour by plugging-in whenever their EV is parked at home. Crowdflex was awarded funding through Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund, which is managed in partnership with Innovate UK. The project is being delivered by a consortium of partners: OVO, Ohme, Centre for Net Zero, ERM, AWS, National Grid Electricity Distribution and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks. Ohme is the official charger provider for Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai in the UK, as well as Mercedes-Benz, Polestar and the Volkswagen Group in the UK and Ireland and customers on the Motability scheme, the largest fleet operator in the UK. Ohme has been named as Best Chargepoint Manufacturer in the 2024 Irish EV awards. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/transitioning-to-a-net-zero-energy-system-smart-systems-and-flexibility-plan-2021 For more information go to: www.ohme-ev.com

New car optimism as demand ramps up ahead of September plate change

Industry News

New car visits to Auto Trader up 7% month-on-month ahead of September, and 8% year-on-year. MG is the UK’s ‘hottest’ electric brand in August thanks to pre-plate change push on key models. Car buyers benefitting from more choice of new car as Auto Trader records 23% uptick in physical stock since January, with c. 20,000 brand-new cars available onsite. 27th August 2024 – With the key plate change month of September fast approaching, the latest data from Auto Trader suggests new car demand is ramping up, with visits to its new car platform rising nearly 7% so far in August, on a month-on-month (MoM) basis. Despite the country being gripped by Olympic fever for much of the month, it marks a sizeable increase on the 2.7% MoM rise recorded this time last year, and an even bigger jump on July’s 0.2% softening. Offering optimism ahead of the vital sales period, Auto Trader’s data (based on c. 2 million monthly new car visits and over 6.5 million daily new car searches) suggests tactics to stimulate demand by improving affordability and choice, as well as putting more of their new car stock in front of more engaged car buyers, is proving successful. As brands respond to growing challenges in the new car market, the volume of new cars advertised on Auto Trader has increased significantly this year, with levels in August already up 23% on January. To help turn heads in the September run up, the average discount applied has risen, albeit marginally, from 8.7% in July, to 8.9% this month. Over the course of the last 12 months, however, discounts have leapt from 6.7%. With ZEV mandate pressures mounting, the average discount applied to electric vehicles (EV) has rocketed from 6.6% to 10.9% over the same period, which Auto Trader’s data suggests is helping to move the dial. In recent months, the share of enquiries being sent to retailers generated by brand-new electric cars has seen a notable uptick, rising from 13.6% in February to 16.6% in August to date. Highlighting the influence of affordability in driving consumer engagement for brand new EVs, the all-electric MG ZS is currently this month’s fastest-growing new electric model. Thanks to an enticing combination of discounts, deposit contributions and finance offers, demand has surged, with its share of all new EV enquiries increasing to 6.8%, up 5.1 percentage points (ppts) in just four weeks. MG hasn’t limited its big push to just the ZS either, with the MG4 the second fastest climber, accounting for a 6.5% share (up 2.5 ppts). Whilst their big rise in demand failed to knock Honda’s e:Ny1 off the overall EV top spot, accounting for a lead share of 7.4%, it did propel MG into first place in the electric brand rankings, and by some margin. With a 16% overall share of all new electric enquiries, the British badged Chinese brand is generating twice as many leads than Hyundai (8.2%) and Honda (7.8%) in second and third place respectively, and five times as many as MINI in 10th (4%). Brand-new BMWs turn the most heads in AugustBMW also deserves recognition this month. Whilst the premium German marque is ‘only’ the fourth most in demand EV brand based on leads, looking at Auto Trader’s data more broadly reveals that it’s not only generating the largest share of electric advert views (11.5%) in August, but also topping the overall new car charts. Indeed, when factoring in all fuel types this month, BMW accounted for more than 1 in 10 (13.6%) of all new car enquires sent to retailers, and a whopping 1 in 5 (19.5%) of all new car advert views. BMW was followed by equally familiar European stalwarts on the overall lists this month, with Land Rover (12.9%) taking the title of second most in-demand new car brand by enquiry, and Volkswagen third (7.9%). At a model level, however, the Defender 110 (4%) knocked the Golf (3.2%) off its perch, to reclaim the title as the UK’s current most in demand brand new car. Commenting on the data, Auto Trader’s New Car Performance Director, Bex Kennett, said: “September remains a vital selling month for the new car market, so despite the broader challenges, the robust performance we’re seeing on our platform should be a cause for optimism. To make sure our partners have the best opportunity to profit during the key plate change month, we’ve just launched our largest ever consumer marketing campaign, which is focused on driving many more highly engaged new car buyers to the 20,000 new cars advertised on our platform. I’d urge retailers not to miss out on the opportunity and make sure their stock is where buyers will be looking for their next new car over the coming weeks.” Most in demand new car electric models on Auto Trader in August ranked by enquiries/leads. Rank Make Model Share of enquiries 1 Honda e:Ny1 7.4% 2 MG MG ZS 6.8% 3 MG MG4 6.5% 4 Hyundai IONIQ 5 6.0% 5 Nissan Leaf 5.6% 6 Renault Scenic E-Tech 4.3% 7 Tesla Model 3 3.5% 8 Porsche Taycan 3.4% 9 MINI Electric Cooper 3.4% 10 Ford Mustang Mach-E 2.8% Most in demand new car electric brands[1] on Auto Trader in August ranked by enquiries/leads. Rank Make Share of enquiries 1 MG 16.1% 2 Hyundai 8.2% 3 Honda 7.8% 4 BMW 7.7% 5 Renault 6.4% 6 Nissan 5.8% 7 Peugeot 5.3% 8 Ford 4.9% 9 Tesla 4.9% 10 MINI 4.4% Most in demand new car models on Auto Trader in August ranked by enquiries/leads – all fuel types. Rank Make Model Share of enquiries 1 Land Rover Defender 110 4.0% 2 Volkswagen Golf 3.2% 3 Land Rover Range Rover 3.0% 4 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 2.6% 5 Hyundai TUCSON 2.4% 6 MG ZS 2.0% 7 BMW X5 1.7% 8 Volkswagen Tiguan 1.7% 9 BMW M3 1.6% 10 BMW 3 Series 1.5% Most in demand new car brands on Auto Trader in August ranked by enquiries/leads – all fuel types. Rank Make Share of…

Top-of-the-range Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Performance: on sale 29 August

Industry News

Range-topping new ID.3 model combines pace and power with practicality Striking exterior sets the newcomer apart from the crowd ‘Electric counterpart to the Golf GTI Clubsport’ Available from 29 August priced at £46,225 (OTR RRP inc VAT) Milton Keynes – Pace, power and miles aplenty: the new all-electric ID.3 GTX Performance has it all and can be ordered through any Volkswagen UK Retailer from 29 August. It is priced at £46,225 (on-the-road recommended retail price, including VAT). The top-of-the-ID.3-range newcomer adds pulse-quickening style and extra performance on to the already successful Pro and Pro S versions of the car. It is equipped with an 84 kWh gross (79 kWh net) battery that delivers 326 PS and 545 Nm of torque through the rear wheels – enough to power this sporty EV from zero to 62 mph in just 5.7 seconds. Sports suspension, progressive steering and Volkswagen’s DCC adaptive chassis control system all come as standard for assured and dynamic road handling at all times. Pace and power are not at the expense of practicality, thanks to the 369 miles of range (WLTP combined) that’s also on offer. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 26 minutes at rapid DC stations of up to 185 kW, while domestic charging can be completed at up to 11 kW AC. Other highlights that set this model apart from the crowd include the GTX-specific front bumper, complete with a new independent black air intake in a diamond-style design and new daytime running lights. High-gloss black body elements, 20-inch Skagen black alloy wheels, newly designed side sills and a refreshed lower area at the rear with diffuser complete the new model’s eye-catching exterior. The sporty theme continues on the inside, where premium ergoActive sports seats that combine fabric with leatherette sit alongside red decorative stitching, a GTX multi-function steering wheel and a GTX-specific cockpit surface. Metallic paint, a Harman Kardon sound system and augmented-reality head-up display also come as standard to enhance the overall driving experience. “The ID.3 GTX Performance is, for me, the electric counterpart to the Golf GTI Clubsport,” said Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Technical Development, when the new car was unveiled to the media in March this year. “Of course, an electric drive and a turbocharged petrol engine each have their own unique character. Yet the ID.3 GTX Performance and the Golf GTI Clubsport share the same fascinating lightness when they accelerate. “Volkswagen is transferring the almost 50-year tradition of its compact GT models into the world of electric mobility. Driving pleasure is guaranteed.” The Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Performance is available to order at Volkswagen UK Retailers from Thursday 29 August, priced at £46,225 (on-the-road recommended retail price, including VAT). (ends) About the Volkswagen brand: A total of 162,087 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were registered in the UK in 2023, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). This equated to a market share of 8.52 per cent – an increase of 0.35 per cent compared with the previous year – and made Volkswagen the UK’s best-selling new-car brand for the third year running. The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand has a global presence, producing vehicles at 29 locations in 12 countries, and employs approximately 170,000 people. In 2023, Volkswagen delivered around 4.87 million vehicles worldwide. These included bestsellers such as the Polo, T-Roc, T-Cross, Golf, Tiguan and Passat, as well as the successful all-electric ID. models. Volkswagen handed over about 394,000 all-electric vehicles to customers worldwide in 2023 and, with its ACCELERATE strategy, is consistently advancing its ambition to become the most desirable brand for sustainable mobility. Press contactVolkswagen (UK) Press TeamMike Orford 07467 442062Rob Punshon 07775 311931Grant McPherson 07774 684222Trevor Rickwood 07407 826649Nicki Divey 07802 248310 Volkswagen Press and PRVolkswagen (UK)Yeomans DriveBlakelandsMilton KeynesMK14 5AN www.vwpress.co.ukTwitter: @VWUKPress VW24050 TR/mo/rp

The Cost of Making Calls: half of UK van drivers still admit to breaking mobile phone driving laws, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles study reveals

Industry News

57% of UK van drivers still physically check their phones while driving, an offence under Regulation 110 of the Road Vehicles Regulations 1986, according to research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles This means the majority of van drivers are risking a £200 fine and six penalty points With the average number of hours van drivers spend in their vehicles increasing by 27.9% year-on-year, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ urges drivers to prioritise safety, offering a range of smart tech features to help drivers work on the go Milton Keynes, UK (22 August, 2024) – Over half (57%) of UK van drivers still physically check their mobile phones while driving1, according to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles research. This is despite the most recent update to Regulation 110 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, banning the use of all handheld devices behind the wheel and an increased fine of £200 fine and six penalty points. While the proportion of van drivers checking their phones has reduced by 7% versus 2023 – in which 64% of UK van drivers confessed to checking their phones2 – 1 in 10 still admit to not only doing so while driving, but doing so “often”.1 Demonstrating the scale and ongoing prevalence of the issue amongst the UK’s van drivers, a recently released Department for Transport survey found that van drivers are more than twice as likely to use their mobile phone while driving, compared to all other types of drivers.3 Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ research confirmed that the decision to ignore mobile phone driving laws is not the result of a lack of available hands-free technology. In fact, 98% of respondents stated that their vans have in-built technology to support hands-free driving, with almost all (93%) using the technology at least once during the working day.1 While it remains to be seen what’s causing so many drivers to continue breaking the law at some stage during the day, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is urging van drivers to go hands-free while on the road. As the hours UK van drivers spend in their vehicles continue to increase – rising from an average 4.88 hours per day in 20222, to 6.24 hours in 20231 – it’s more important than ever that drivers make the most of the technology available. Doing so not only improves road safety, but also allows drivers to work on the go. To optimise customer convenience and safety, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles fits a Bluetooth® hands-free kit as standard across all its models. Paired with its range of digital services – including We Connect and App-Connect – which enable drivers to make calls, access apps and navigate via voice control, drivers can get back to business all without taking their eyes off the road. The survey also indicates that many van drivers are transitioning to such technology, with 82% making up to 10 hands-free calls per day.1 John Ricardo-Neto, Head of Product Planning at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “While there’s still a large number of van drivers ignoring the mobile driving laws at some stage throughout the day, it’s positive to see that van drivers are, for the most part, using hands-free technology while on the road. Every new Volkswagen van is packed with useful in-cabin tech such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the ability of voice control, allowing drivers to maintain their eyes, and focus, on the road at all times.” For more details on Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, or to find your nearest Van Centre, please visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk (ends) Notes to Editors1 Results are taken from a OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK van drivers, conducted in December 2023, covering 2023 calendar year, commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.2 Results are taken from a OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK van drivers, conducted in February 2023, covering 2022 calendar year, commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.3 Department for Transport survey, published May 2024, covering Autumn 2023. More information can be found here. About Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles:Over 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 5ANTelephone 01908 601478www.vwpress.co.uk 03524/JBE

Take cover this Bank Holiday

Industry News

Incorrect or no cover could leave you out of pocket Check your breakdown cover before setting off Almost half of claims due to invalid policy Whatever the weather this Bank Holiday, it’s vital drivers make sure they have bought the right breakdown cover, says leading provider Start Rescue. Drivers cannot rely on taking out cover after they have had a breakdown – it is fraudulent to buy insurance to cover an event that has already occurred. In June 2024, where Start Rescue was unable to provide assistance, nearly half (45%) of these incidents were due to customers not having purchased a breakdown policy, so no cover was in place. A further 15% were because customers did not buy the correct cover to include Home Assist, while 11.5% were not covered for recovery miles above the 10-mile local tow limit. A further 16% were down to the car not having a valid MoT or road tax, both a legal requirement. “Customers buy a 10-mile local tow recovery policy because they don’t normally venture very far, but they will receive a huge shock if they travel a longer distance this Bank Holiday and can’t get the vehicle repaired local to the breakdown,” says Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue. He adds: “With many breakdown providers, once the mileage limit has been exceeded on a local tow policy, any extra miles plus additional call-outs for a relay if it’s a long distance will be payable by the customer. “At Start Rescue, we always try to find the most cost-effective solution for customers when service is limited or not covered by the policy that has been purchased, but sometimes these options become limited and expensive later in the day and into the evening.” It is essential to check your breakdown cover is still valid and upgrade if necessary before setting out this Bank Holiday. It can take 24 to 72 hours with some breakdown providers before new breakdown cover or a mid-term upgrade is active – potentially leaving drivers facing a big bill in the event of a breakdown. Always ensure you check the timings with your breakdown provider so cover is in place when you need it. Start Rescue requires just a 24-hour waiting period for a policy to be active or for any mid-term adjustment to become valid. Start Rescue has a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot, a five-star Defaqto* rating and has achieved Which? Recommended Provider status for five years running. Start Rescue has also been awarded best Breakdown Cover provider in the Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards 2024 (www.finder.com), scoring 4.9 out of 5 for overall satisfaction with a 94% recommendation rate. In the What Car? Survey of Best Breakdown Cover, Start Rescue came top for best response time, reaching 77% of call-outs in 30 minutes to an hour and didn’t leave anyone waiting for more than two hours. Start Rescue also won best in the survey for performing temporary repairs that let people continue with their journeys. Launched in 2009, Start Rescue is an integral part of the nation’s fourth largest breakdown and recovery service, Call Assist, which now has more than two million UK customers. For further breakdown advice, please visit startrescue.co.uk.

MG centenary celebrations to continue at Salon Privé 2024

Industry News

MG will continue its centenary celebrations at Salon Privé 2024 with a line-up that includes the sensational new MG Cyber GTS Concept, on show for one of the very first times following its surprise debut earlier this summer. It will appear alongside the MG Cyberster roadster, making one of its first appearances since arriving in showrooms earlier in August. MG 100th anniversary celebrations to continue at Salon Privé 2024 Stunning new electric MG Cyber GTS Concept to take a starring role Thrilling electric MG Cyberster roadster will also be showcased following rave reviews in the press Salon Privé 2024 at Blenheim Palace to be held on 28-31 August 19th year of Salon Privé in 2024: ‘The UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party’ Salon Privé tickets available at https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/ The MG Cyber GTS Concept became a sensational way for the thriving British brand to celebrate its 100th anniversary. As Salon Prive’s expert guests will immediately know, it pays homage to the MGC GTS Sebring which, back in 1968, secured the best-ever factory MG result at the legendary 12 Hours of Sebring. The highest-placed car, one of just six built, was nicknamed ‘Mable’ and driven by the legendary Paddy Hopkirk and Andrew Hedges. It would finish in a remarkable 10th place overall, and third in its category – beaten only by two exotic racing prototypes that were, unlike the MGC GTS Sebring, unrelated to any road-going sports cars. The MG Cyber GTS Concept celebrates this remarkable racer in style. Finished in gorgeous British Racing Green, the sleek coupe concept both captures the spirit of the MGC GTS Sebring, “whilst delivering a rear-wheel drive car utilising the MG of today’s advanced, high-performance EV powertrains”. Technical details have not yet been revealed, making it an even more alluring attraction to check out at Salon Privé. Tantalisingly, MG adds that “the Cyber GTS Concept explores the further potential for MG creating a new future for a GTS model in the EV era, and follows in the footsteps of the Cyberster which is the world’s first open-top EV two-seater to go into production”. The MG Cyberster roadster also on display at Salon Privé 2024 will help inform show-goers’ educated guesses about the gorgeous new MG Cyber GTS Concept. Offered in both single motor and dual motor guise, the Cyberster has a generous 77kWh battery that gives a range of up to 316 miles – and the sensational 503bhp of the dual motor Cyberster GT gives electrifying 0-62mph performance in just 3.2 seconds. Prices for the long-range MG Cyberster Trophy start from just £54,995, and even that thrilling high-performance GT is only £59,995. Salon Privé Director David Bagley said: “MG is a much-loved brand by so many Salon Privé enthusiasts, and I’m delighted we’re able to help continue its 100th anniversary celebrations in the regal grounds of Blenheim Palace. I’m eagerly looking forward to showcasing the fabulous new MG Cyber GTS Concept, one of the first times it will be shown in public since its world debut earlier this summer. It’s great to also showcase the MG Cyberster roadster, which is now arriving in showrooms after receiving rave reviews in the press. I’m certain our guests will enjoy helping continue MG’s 100th anniversary celebrations in style at Salon Privé 2024.” On Wednesday 28th to the Friday 30th there will be opportunity to test drive the Cyberster and the all-new HS, please ensure you ask a member of staff on the MG stand to book a test drive slot, slots are limited and not guaranteed.

Revolution Race Cars Lands American Investment and Management to Expand Offering of Le Mans Style Prototype Race Cars to Competitors and Track Day Drivers Around the World

Industry News

Classic Car Club Management Team and Revolution Partner To Shape Revolution and The American Racing Topography (AUGUST 22, 2024: NEW YORK) Revolution Race Cars, the UK-based automotive manufacturer that brings the pinnacle of motorsport safety, technology and speed to the ever-broadening motorsport community, announced today that it has secured significant new funding and presence in America from two longtime Revolution customers and the team that founded and operates Classic Car Club International, the famed private members motoring club in Manhattan, New York. A new American company, Cabotage Corporation, an investment vehicle formed by Classic Car Club Inc. Directors Zac Moseley, Revolution Race Cars leadership Phil Abbott and Nigel Redwood, together with longtime Revolution customers Marc Russell and Channel Islands based entrepreneur Terry Thompson, has acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Abbott Automotive Limited, trading as Revolution Race Cars. This new phase of Revolution’s development will fast track the development of exciting new models to the Revolution line up of consumer-focused prototype race cars engineered to accommodate new racers and world champions alike, as well as provide country club motorsport circuits and racing schools with the most competitive and durable package available. Revolution Race Cars remain committed to making Le Mans Prototype technology and safety more accessible, offering affordable sports race cars equipped with carbon tubs and cutting-edge features to enthusiasts globally. With this new investment and leadership structure, Revolution Race Cars is poised for an exhilarating phase of international growth and innovation, continuing to redefine the motorsport landscape. Zac Moseley will assume the role of Chairman with Nigel Redwood joining Revolution full-time as Managing Director, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous roles as MD and CEO of various international businesses. James Abbott will continue as Head of Product Development, working alongside his father, Phil Abbott, who will serve as Operations Director. This restructuring enables the Abbott family to focus entirely on designing and developing top-tier prototype race cars, while Nigel Redwood takes charge of the commercial side of the business. Additionally, Zac Moseley, Jessica Moseley, and Marc Russell will join the Revolution board as Directors of Abbott Automotive Ltd., bringing valuable experience to the team. Zac Moseley and Marc Russell both have strong ties with the Revolution factory. Zac heads Classic Car Club Racing, the East Coast dealer based in New York, while serial entrepreneur Marc was one of the first Revolution owners in the USA. This move transfers Classic Car Club’s racing dealership to Abbott Automotive Ltd., expanding the factory’s U.S. reach and deepening its partnership with Classic Car Club Inc. Marc Russell’s expertise in selling top of the range cars will further bolster Revolution’s presence in the U.S. This strategic move ensures that the Abbott family, renowned for their multi-generational expertise in race car construction, maintains its platform for innovation. Revolution’s mission has always been to democratize cutting-edge technology and uphold the highest safety standards in motorsport, making innovation accessible to a broader audience. Nigel Redwood brings over 25 years of commercial expertise and a deep motorsport background as a seasoned driver and team manager. His involvement with Revolution stems from a longstanding relationship with Phil Abbott, dating back to 2006 when he won the Radical Enduro Championship. Nigel joined Revolution Race Cars as a consultant in 2023, developing the sales and marketing strategy and securing investment to support the incumbent team. His decision to join full-time as Managing Director underscores his belief in Revolution’s vision. Phil Abbott, a distinguished BRDC Member and motorsport icon, has a storied career. With an engineering background from Rolls Royce and Jaguar, Phil’s journey into race car manufacturing began at Spyder Engineering, a specialist in replacement Lotus chassis and suspension. Co-founding Radical, he identified a gap for high-quality national-level race cars and achieved international success. In 2017, he co-founded Revolution with his son James to push the boundaries further with full carbon fibre safety cell race cars. James Abbott, co-founder of Revolution and a British Formula Ford and F3 race winner, brings extensive expertise in race car development and engineering. His experience with Radical, Ligier, and special projects with Aston Martin and Imperial College London give him a unique perspective into every element of a race car. The ethos of “built by racers for racers” runs throughout the entire team. Revolution Race Cars would also like to thank current Directors and investors Marcel Aebi, Michel Frey, Jean Gandar, and Romain Rousseaux, who are exiting the business at this point. Their support during the first chapter of Revolution’s journey laid the foundation for the exciting future ahead. With this new investment and leadership structure, Revolution Race Cars is poised for an exhilarating phase of growth and innovation, continuing to redefine the motorsport landscape. Phil Abbott Co-founder of Revolution Race Cars, commented “Today, James and I as co-founders of Revolution Race Cars, are thrilled to witness the evolution of our next phase. With this new investment and leadership, we’re poised to introduce exciting new models and push the boundaries of performance. Our passion for innovation drives us forward, and we’re excited to continue delivering cutting-edge technology and safety to enthusiasts worldwide.” Nigel Redwood Managing Director, added “With Revolution Race Cars, I see a unique opportunity to merge my decades of commercial expertise with a lifelong passion for motorsport. Joining full-time as Managing Director is not just a professional decision; it’s a testament to my belief in the Abbott family’s ability to deliver exceptional race cars. I’m honoured to be part of this journey, excited by the deepening partnership with Classic Car Club Inc and I’m eager to lead our team toward even greater success. As an ex-race driver myself, I continue the theme of ‘built by racers for racers.” Zac Moseley Chairman, “The motorsport industry has experienced colossal growth in the US market over the past ten years. More than a dozen new racing circuits are currently under construction across America, access to motorsport academies is at an all-time high and the explosion of interest in Formula…

CUPRA Tavascan to open for order in the UK, as brand continues to expand electric offering

Industry News

CUPRA Tavascan will become available to order in the UK from 11th September Drivers can reserve today to become one of the first Tavascan drivers on the road Retail customers will be able to purchase a Tavascan on a 1% APR with £3,000 deposit contribution 48 months campaign plus either a complimentary Ohme charger or £700 charging voucher The CUPRA Tavascan perfectly matches electrification and performance; the most powerful version delivers 250kW (340PS), with dual-motor all-wheel drive system New striking design language, delivering sporty proportions and the signature CUPRA aesthetic Pricing starts from £47,340 For more information, visit: https://www.cupraofficial.co.uk/new-cars/new-car-stock-locator?t_model=EXAE Milton Keynes, 22-08-2024 – CUPRA’s first all-electric SUV coupe, Tavascan, will be open for order to UK customers from 11th September. To celebrate the launch and the next step in CUPRA’s electrification journey, customers can reserve a new Tavascan ahead of open for order and be prioritised to own one of the first 50 cars on the road in the UK. To place a reservation customers will need to pay £99 however this is automatically refunded within 7 days regardless of whether they go onto place an order. Reservations are still valid after the £99 is refunded*. The new CUPRA Tavascan will launch with a retail campaign – available from 11th September 2024. Offering customers £3,000 deposit contribution and 1% APR (up to 48 months), plus either a complimentary Ohme charger or £700 charging voucher. Customers would also be able to purchase our eCare2 service plan for only £49. The brand’s second fully electric model is available in V1, V2, VZ1 and VZ2 trims*, and boasts an advanced all-electric system. The Tavascan is offered in two power outputs: 286PS and 340PS, with the 286PS providing enough capacity for a range of up to 352 miles thanks to the 77kWh net capacity battery pack. Tavascan’s powertrain, coupled with its DCC Sport Dynamic Chassis*, allows the SUV Coupe to reach 62mph in 6.8 seconds (5.5 seconds for VZ trims) from a standing start, reaching a top speed of 112 mph. The battery pack offers 77kWh across all variants, and has a range of up to 352 miles, with the ability to be charged with either an AC charging system (up to 11kw) or a DC (up to 135kw) fast-charging network. Alongside power, the Tavascan also showcases a new striking design. A mysterious and intimidating front packed with rich details, complimented with its three-triangle eye signature headlamp and “shark nose” features, gives the Tavascan an athletic and sporty aesthetic. Marcus Gossen, Director of SEAT and CUPRA UK, said: “We’re really excited about the Tavascan opening for order in the UK. This is a culmination of years of hard work, innovation, and design coming together to create the future of CUPRA. We’re equally thrilled to be able to offer customers the chance to reserve the first 50 Tavascan’s early, prioritising their order and making them one of the first on the road in the UK. The Tavascan marks the next step in the CUPRA electrification journey, and we’re delighted to be able to bring that to life on the UK roads from 11th September this year.” Reserve your Tavascan here, and become one of the first UK Tavascan owners. *terms and conditions apply Model Power Torque 0-62mph (100km/h) Price (OTR RRP) Tavascan V1 77kWh 286PS 286PS 545Nm 6.8 seconds £47,340 Tavascan V2 77kWh 286PS 286PS 545Nm 6.8 seconds £53,835 Tavascan VZ1 77kWh 340PS 340PS 545Nm 5.5 seconds £55,935 Tavascan VZ2 77kWh 340PS 340PS 545Nm 5.5 seconds £60,835

New Forest National Park & BMW UK partner to better connect young people and EV drivers to nature

Industry News

In Jubilee Field Car Park, Sway, New Forest National Park, a new twin electric vehicle (EV) charging point will help locals and tourists make zero emission journeys BMW UK is also funding the appointment of two apprentice rangers and supporting around 80 young people to connect with nature and feel inspired to help protect it through its Youth Action Programme BMW UK’s work with New Forest National Park is part of its Recharge in Nature partnership with the UK National Parks The New Forest National Park Authority and BMW UK celebrate a milestone in its partnership today, as a new twin electric vehicle (EV) charging point officially goes live in the National Park. As well as enhancing the EV charging network, the pair’s collaboration will also see BMW fund the appointment of two apprentice rangers and support around 80 young people to better connect with nature and feel inspired to protect it. To increase the availability of public EV charging options for both local people and visitors, the new twin charging point has been installed in the Jubilee Field Car Park in Sway, one of the New Forest’s most central locations. It means that more EV drivers can enjoy the unique beauty of the National Park’s ancient woodlands, wild heathlands and beautiful coastlines. The installation is the latest win for the Recharge in Nature Project, which will see EV charge points installed across all 15 UK National Parks – from the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands down to Dartmoor in England’s South-West. By the end of the three-year partnership in 2025, there will be a total of 135 charge points thanks to the partnership. Currently, the UK’s National Parks are visited over 100 million times each year[1] – with 93% of these visits made by car[2]. Enhancing the National Parks’ EV recharging network is consequently vital to enabling better access to the UK’s most precious wild landscapes for the lowest emitting and quietest drives. BMW UK Corporate Communications Director, Graham Biggs, says:“We are proud to be leading the charge towards more sustainable tourism in the New Forest, one of the UK’s most beloved landscapes and home to the famous free-roaming ponies. With EVs now accounting for over 18 per cent[3] of the UK’s new car sales and demand for them growing strongly, a fully-fledged EV charging infrastructure is essential to helping to decarbonise travel and tourism in and around the nation’s celebrated beauty spots. Our Recharge in Nature partnership with the UK National Parks is about adding to the spread of rural EV chargers to reduce driving emissions – as well as noise and air pollution.” As well as helping enhance the rural charging network, BMW UK’s support of Recharge in Nature is funding nature and community impact projects in every National Park. In the New Forest, this includes the funding of two apprentice rangers, who will gain practical experience and develop skills in environmental conservation. The two rangers spent their first six weeks training in first aid and the operation of chainsaws, brush cutters and strimmers. Currently, they are spending time with each of the different local ranger teams to learn about their essential work – with the chance to join the New Forest’s Early Green Careers Network for additional mentoring. BMW UK is also supporting the New Forest National Park’s Youth Action Programme by funding three-month nature conservation projects for up to 10 young people at a time aged between 11 and 30 years. The aim of the programme is to connect these local young people more deeply with nature and inspire them to help protect it. The programme will feature a mix of nature protection volunteering, walks, educational talks, cycling, mindfulness exercises, training in bushcraft skills and discussions about supporting nature and combating the climate crisis in daily life. Chair of the New Forest National Park Authority, David Bence, says:“We’re really excited about our new EV twin charge point. The New Forest is a world capital for wildlife with many rare habitats and species and we’re already seeing the impacts of climate change. We must do everything we can to protect the New Forest for future generations – and that includes encouraging the people who call our wonderful National Park home and the millions of visitors each year, to embrace lower emission journey options. “We’re also thrilled that this partnership with BMW UK means investment in the local community through two new ranger apprentices and a programme to connect young people more deeply with the New Forest’s ancient landscapes. After all, young people are the future of conservation, but they won’t protect what they don’t know and love.” The BMW Group has set clear CO2 reduction targets across the lifecycle of every vehicle and is constantly seeking new ways to cut emissions. By 2030, the CO2 emissions per vehicle will be at least halved from 2019 levels. BMW Group was one of the first automotive brands to join the Business Ambition for 1.5°C as part of the Paris Climate Agreement – the most robust commitment to the goal of full climate neutrality, over the entire value chain, by 2050 at the latest. By doing so, the company is also part of the Race to Zero. For more information about BMW Group UK and the Recharge in Nature partnership, please visit bmw.co.uk/nationalparks

CUPRA announces the new CUPRA Terramar ahead of its World Premiere at the 37ᵗʰ edition of the America’s Cup

Industry News

The new CUPRA Terramar is a sporty and electrified SUV that pays homage to Terramar circuit The CUPRA Terramar embraces the new CUPRA design language with a bold and confident look Today, the CUPRA Cube in Barcelona marks the beginning of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Barcelona and unveils the first details of the CUPRA Terramar ahead of its World Premiere Watch the livestream on September 3rd at 12:15pm CEST: https://youtube.com/live/044s9WOkMyM?feature=share Martorell, 23-08-2024 – The wait is almost over. The end of the countdown of the CUPRA Cube marks the beginning of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Barcelona and today CUPRA announces the CUPRA Terramar, the official car of the competition, ahead of its World Premiere on September 3rd. During the following days, the timer installed on Barcelona’s beach will show some details of the brand’s new model. The CUPRA Cube will also display information about the different races as well as the results and standings, to make sure that the fans of the competition are always up to date. The new CUPRA Terramar arrives to elevate CUPRA to the hotspot of the fastest growing segment in Europe. Paying homage to the Terramar circuit in Sitges, where CUPRA was first presented to the world, this electrified SUV is the new hero of a new era, created following the new CUPRA design language, perfectly blending emotion and performance. Featuring the unique CUPRA DNA with a bold and confident look, it integrates the next generation of eHybrid technology, greater digitalisation, and sustainability features, while enhancing driving performance. The World Premiere of the CUPRA Terramar will be an unforgettable event that will bring together the CUPRA Tribe to experience a new era for the brand in the context of a competition where there is no second place. The event will be live streamed on September 3rd at 12:15PM CEST on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/044s9WOkMyM?feature=share