GKN Automotive signs Virtual Power Purchase Agreement with Recurrent Energy, covering 65% of European electricity load

GKN Automotive has signed a Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA) with Recurrent Energy covering 65% of its European electricity load This development is a key step in the company’s SBTi-approved targets to reduce its direct Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 45% by 2030 and achieve net zero across the entire value chain by 2045 The agreement facilitates the supply of approximately 2 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity to the European grid over a 10-year period London, UK, 10 July 2024 – GKN Automotive, the global leader in drive systems, has announced a significant step towards decarbonising its electricity usage by signing a Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA)1 with global renewable energy developer and subsidiary of Canadian Solar, Recurrent Energy. The 10-year VPPA agreement will cover 65% of GKN Automotive’s European electricity load and 30% of its global load, significantly contributing to the company’s commitment to using 50% renewable electricity globally by 2025 and 75% by 2030. The joint agreement with Recurrent Energy will establish The Rey I project, a new2 large-scale solar farm in Spain, which will contribute towards the increased supply of renewable electricity to the Spanish grid – simultaneously contributing to the decarbonisation of the European grid. The project will facilitate the supply of approximately 200,000 MWh of renewable electricity to the European grid annually, reaching approximately 2 million MWh over the 10-year agreement. GKN Automotive will receive Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) equivalent to 65% of its European 2023 electricity usage. This development is a key step in the company’s SBTi-approved targets to reduce its direct Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 45% by 2030 and achieve net zero across its entire value chain by 2045. GKN Automotive is actively pursuing further VPPAs across Europe and South America, with the aim of further decarbonising its electricity usage across its global operations. Dr. Clare Wyatt, Chief People, Communications & Sustainability Officer at GKN Automotive, said: “Signing this VPPA with Recurrent Energy underscores our commitment to achieving our 2045 net zero ambition and contributing to the decarbonisation of the industry. It reflects our intention to continue to drive a cleaner, more sustainable world, through supporting projects that add to the supply of renewable electricity.” Ismael Guerrero, CEO of Recurrent Energy, added: “Recurrent Energy is pleased to support GKN Automotive’s commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2045. Recurrent Energy has a long track record of executing projects at scale for major worldwide customers, and we thank GKN Automotive for trusting us with their first VPPA in Europe. This virtual power purchase agreement exemplifies the dedication of both companies to invest in renewable energy projects that not only benefit operations but also contribute to the broader goal of combatting climate change.” Schneider Electric, a global leader in corporate renewable energy procurement and carbon management, advised GKN Automotive in the project selection and VPPA negotiations. John Powers, Vice President, Global Renewables at Schneider Electric, said: “We are excited to support our client in this landmark renewable energy endeavor. This collaboration demonstrates the immense potential of VPPAs in driving sustainability efforts and accelerating the transition to renewable energy on a global scale.”

Media advisory: Global unveil of first INEOS Grenadier by Arcane Works at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed

INEOS Automotive is unveiling the first model by Arcane Works, a unique service curating exclusive, limited editions of INEOS Automotive’s award-winning Grenadier 4X4, at 10.45am (BST) on Thursday 11 July. The new bespoke service and latest addition to the Grenadier model line-up will be unveiled during a short press conference at INEOS Automotive’s Outpost stand (between the cricket pitch and Entry Gate 1), alongside a range of never-before-seen special editions, one-off experimental projects and prototypes. The growing range of Grenadier models will also feature in a very special run up the hillclimb route at around 1:40pm. The exclusive INEOS off-road driving course in the nearby Goodwood Halnaker Chalkpit returns for 2024, allowing media to get behind the wheel of a Grenadier throughout the festival. This year, the line-up of test vehicles also includes the newly-launched Grenadier Quartermaster double cab pick-up. Pre-booking for quarry drives is recommended as demand is high. Please call Sophie Charman (+44 7706 364464) or email ineos@pfpr.com to reserve a slot; or visit the INEOS Outpost stand.

Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 completes EV Rally tour around the A-Z of Britain

A battery-powered Mercedes-Benz eActros tractor unit has proved its readiness for work in the UK by completing a gruelling five-day, 1,400-mile journey around the country. Hauling a standard road trailer, and fully freighted at 40 tonnes GVW, the eActros 600 easily saw off the challenge of this year’s EV Rally event. Held from July 1-5, EV Rally 2024 saw 50 vehicles of varying sizes and types set off from Oldbury in the West Midlands, on a tour that took in visits to 26 locations corresponding to every letter of the alphabet – albeit with some creative licence when it came to the letters x and z. Although the event was open to all electric vehicles, just two trucks took part and the eActros was the only tractor unit. Day one involved a 258-mile drive via five intermediate checkpoints to finish in Carlisle. Day two’s route covered 285 miles, ending at the Daimler Truck UK complex at Wentworth Park, near Sheffield. Day three held the longest single day’s drive, at 366 miles on a circuitous route to Cambridge, while the fourth instalment saw participants cover 315 miles to Exeter. Finally, the last stint of 265 e-miles brought the participants through Wales to the finish line in Chester. The eActros also visited many of the national network of Mercedes-Benz truck dealers on its journey around the country. Daimler Truck UK Head of Future Sustainability, James Venables, was among the eActros driving team. He was interviewed at the end of day two by Sara Sloman, of the EV Rally Media Crew, who observed: “You’ve definitely stolen the show this year – whenever the eActros turns up, heads turn.” James agreed and added: “The truck is big, bold and exciting and taking part in this event has been great fun but, more importantly, we’ve proved that our engineers are right when they say the truck can cover 500 km on a single charge. “The EV Rally is all about showcasing today’s electric vehicles and the fact that a multi-day marathon journey is very much achievable, using the current network of charging points. As the national infrastructure develops that will only get easier. “With its fantastic range ability, potentially boosted even further by energy recovery through recuperation, we believe our eActros 600 could have completed each day’s course without the need for any additional recharging – but in the spirit of the event, to show how easy it is to top up during a day’s work, we did stop at some of the designated charge points. Using a 350 kW charger we were able to top up to 60% in about an hour, which was very impressive.” James continued: “What we demonstrated, without doubt, is that the eActros 600 is perfectly capable of slotting into most UK road transport applications seamlessly, offering an option that’s entirely free of exhaust emissions while also being exceptionally smooth, quiet and comfortable to drive.” The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 is available to order now through the manufacturer’s national Dealer Network, with production starting in December.

New Continental GT Speed to make global debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Public debut of new Continental GT Speed confirmed for this year’s Festival of Speed, supporting Goodwood theme of “Horseless to Hybrid – Revolutions in Power” New Continental GT Speed set the unofficial ‘Underwater Speed Record’ of 208 mph / 335 km/h – likely the fastest recorded speed through a tunnel in the world Bespoke ‘FOShtank’ to showcase the new car, and the Underwater Speed Record film, with new behind-the-scenes footage from the project Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain with 782 PS and 1000 Nm Record achieved using SUSTAIN second-generation renewable biofuel in the longest, deepest sub-sea road tunnel in the world (Crewe, 9 July 2024) The new, fourth-generation Continental GT Speed will make its global public debut at this week’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. Fresh from claiming an unofficial ‘Underwater Speed Record’ – believed to be the fastest a car has ever travelled through a tunnel – the 208 mph / 335 km/h daily supercar will appear at the event in both coupe and convertible versions and run on the famous Goodwood Hill Climb twice a day from Thursday until Sunday. Along with the two examples of the new Continental GT Speed that will appear on the Hill Climb at Goodwood, a third car will be on display at the Festival of Speed in a unique way to celebrate the underwater speed record. The ‘FOShtank’ is a bespoke version of the glass ‘Toy Box’ display units that Bentley utilises across it’s Dream Factory campus in Crewe, England, but modified to include a custom-built fish tank in a tongue-in-cheek take on the underwater theme. The Tourmaline Green Continental GT Speed display car will appear behind a three-tonne fish tank containing 1,400 litres of water and 30 Shubunkins and other goldfish. Two separate tanks together weigh more than three tonnes when full, with the water held back by 80 mm thick acrylic sheets. Each tank is flow-rated and filtered to ensure the water is clean, and an on-site aquarium specialist will be looking after the welfare of the 30 occupants over the course of the Festival of Speed. The back wall of the display will house a large, outdoor LED screen that will play both the Underwater Speed Record launch film and a new behind-the-scenes look into how the record was achieved. The Underwater Speed Record – Behind The ScenesOn 18 April, the new Continental GT Speed achieved its top speed through the 14.5 km Ryfylke tunnel in Norway – the longest road tunnel, and deepest sub-sea tunnel of any kind in the world, with its lowest point 292 metres below sea level. Powered by Bentley’s new Ultra Performance Hybrid electrocharged powertrain, the new Continental GT Speed was able to deploy all 782 PS and 1000 Nm with ease, running on Coryton’s SUSTAIN second-generation renewable biofuel and a hybrid battery charged with electricity from Bentley’s own solar panel array. The new class-leading powertrain delivers extreme performance with more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing W12, together with a significant drop in CO2 to 29 g/km. In turn, this provides an extraordinary range of driving capability, from extreme performance to silent and effortless electric luxury. 13 months of preparation and planning was needed to achieve the high-speed tunnel run safely. Every new Continental GT Speed can reach its top speed without modification beyond inflation of the tyres to the correct high-speed pressure, but for the run in the confines of the tunnel, extra precautions were needed. The first step was to secure the right tunnel. The Ryfylke Tunnel near the town of Stavanger in Norway was the perfect candidate, being relatively straight, smooth and with large reserves of length. Bentley is grateful to the support of the Norwegian highways authority (Statens Vegvesen) and the local Stavanger police for their unwavering support of the project, in securing both the tunnel and the permit required to exceed the speed limit. The physics of the car at ‘Vmax’ (top speed) in a 10 metre-wide tube were simulated using Computational Fluid Dynamics, revealing that aerodynamic drag would be 11 per cent higher in the tunnel. The aerodynamic loadings on the car were also affected by the shock waves and wake of the car bouncing off the tunnel walls, meaning that Bentley’s body engineers also had to assess the atypical forces on the panels around the car. Simulation showed the importance of running the car in the centre of the tunnel – proximity to the sides would accelerate the flow of air between the car and tunnel wall, creating a suction that would pull the closer ever closer to the wall. The Vmax car – prepared exclusively for the high-speed runs with a roll cage and bucket seats – was fitted with 22” Pirelli tyres that had been x-rayed to check for any inconsistencies beneath the surface. The car was driven for the run by former British Rally champion Mark Higgins, who holds the lap record around the Isle of Man TT course. The top speed runs were carried out at a local time of 01:00 in the morning, when closing one of the two tunnels would cause minimum disruption to local traffic, which was routed to the spare tunnel to avoid delays. Despite the increased drag, the new Continental GT Speed accelerated from standstill to 335 km/h in just 33 seconds, and was able to hold top speed for as long as the film’s director, Jon Richards (formerly of Top Gear) required.

Hyundai Motor Group and University of Oxford establish Foresight Centre to shape long-term vision and strategy

Oxford-Hyundai Motor Group Foresight Centre to leverage the University of Oxford’s unique approach to future studies, emphasizing ideal values for tomorrow’s community and contributing to understanding of emerging trends Utilizing insights from the Foresight Centre, the Group aims to navigate geopolitical shifts and risks, define the direction of its long-term research, and foster influential networking opportunities The Group is focused on cultivating unique capabilities to shape the future across various industries, reinforcing its role as a first mover in the global market LONDON/SEOUL, July 9, 2024 – Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) and the University of Oxford held an opening ceremony for the Oxford-Hyundai Motor Group Foresight Centre at Oxford’s historic Convocation House on July 8 to mark a new partnership between the two organizations. Based at Saïd Business School, the Foresight Centre will support exploring the Group’s long-term vision and strategic direction. It will strengthen the Group’s ability to proactively shape the future and identify critical focus points to address future geopolitical shifts and risks in advance. The Centre will conduct innovative research to advance progress for humanity and facilitate interdisciplinary conversations between government agencies, academia and industry experts to develop long-term insights into future societal trends. The University of Oxford, renowned for its Oxford Scenario Planning Approach (OSPA), has strong expertise in reshaping industry perspectives and conceiving long-term corporate directions. “This is an exciting and important partnership with the Hyundai Motor Group, that will see our world leading research and academics shape the future of business through values-based research. Hyundai Motor Group’s vision to pursue a better future for humanity very much aligns with our School’s values, and we look forward to a fruitful and mutually enriching collaboration,” said Professor Soumitra Dutta, Dean of Saïd Business School, at the opening ceremony. Attendees from Hyundai Motor Group included Gyun Kim, Executive Vice President of HMG Business Intelligence Institute, and Heung-Soo Kim, Executive Vice President of Global Strategy Office. From the University of Oxford, attendees included Professor Soumitra Dutta, Dean of Saïd Business School, Professor Jonathan Reynolds, Deputy Dean of Saïd Business School, Professor Rafael Ramirez, Director of the Oxford Scenarios Programme, Professor Trudi Lang, Senior Fellow in Management Practice, and other school officials. “The automotive industry is undergoing a paradigm shift and significant changes in business environments, leading to unprecedented uncertainty,” said Gyun Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group Business Intelligence Institute, speaking at the event. “In such times, it is crucial for companies to move away from an experience-based approach and adopt a long-term perspective to identify large-scale future trends. We expect that the Foresight Centre will play a significant role in cultivating a multifaceted and comprehensive perspective on the future within organizations.” Heung-Soo Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Strategy Office at Hyundai Motor Group also added, “Hyundai Motor Group is committed to proactively shaping an ideal direction for future communities to build a better world for humanity. We will foster unique capabilities to lead the way as a first mover in the global market, embarking on this ambitious journey not only for the next generation but also those to come.” Specialized programs, such as the Oxford Scenarios Programme and Oxford Futures Forum, will be implemented to share these insights across the Group, ensuring strategic alignment and forward-thinking leadership. Furthermore, the Foresight Centre will engage with the Group’s open innovation network across key locations, including the United States, China, India, Germany, and Singapore. This collaboration will contribute to the expansion of the Group’s ecosystems in realizing its envisioned future. The Foresight Centre will be directed by Professor Rafael Ramirez, widely respected for his expertise in future scenario planning, and co-directed by Titular Associate Professor Trudi Lang, who also brings extensive knowledge and experience in strategic foresight. Ramirez previously chaired the Global Agenda Council at the World Economic Forum and provided strategic future scenario planning counsel to industry leaders, such as Royal Dutch Shell. Trudi Lang has also held strategic foresight positions at prominent global organizations, such as the World Economic Forum and the OECD Secretariat. Through this collaboration with the University of Oxford, the Group will establish a foundation for actively designing and realizing its future goals, navigating a transformative global landscape of technological innovation. This partnership is expected to solidify the Group’s leadership in the future mobility industry, going beyond short-term predictions to proactively shape the future.

Auto makers can drive UK’s green growth agenda with carbon emissions halved

Hi-res charts available via Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/xe18nsd2y61ssn7woqnwg/AFpviusogZFNVoQJKkYj6Qc?rlkey=4lp7qiquw36hyo27kkushfrw9&st=xzhuii6b&dl=0 25th automotive Sustainability Report shows UK vehicle manufacturers surpass major milestone with CO2 emissions per vehicle produced halved since 1999. More vehicles made but less energy used in 2023 with an -18% decline in CO2 emissions from factory production. Enhancing UK’s competitiveness could help deliver more than a million British-built zero emission vehicles every year by 2035. Tuesday 9 July, 2024 Britain’s automotive sector is today urging the new Labour government to use the industry’s decarbonisation success to the UK’s economic advantage, as a new report shows direct carbon emissions from vehicle factories halved over the past 25 years – helping position the country as the ideal place to produce the next generation of zero emission vehicles. The 25th Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Sustainability Report, published today, shows the amount of CO2 directly emitted in vehicle production more than halved (-54%) compared with 1999 levels – a major milestone achieved through massive industry investment. At the same time, the amount of energy and water used per vehicle was slashed by -18.0% and -17.7% respectively last year, with usage now -33% and -42% below 1999 levels. UK manufacturers are also helping cut on-road emissions with record volumes of electrified vehicles leaving factory lines in 2023, as output rose by almost half (48.0%).1 Recent independent analysis suggests that, with the right investment conditions, by 2035 more than a million ZEVs a year could be rolling off UK factory lines – exported worldwide and fuelling billions of pounds of domestic economic growth.2 With the new government’s commitment to an industrial strategy and its already published Automotive Sector Plan, SMMT’s new report signposts the UK’s green growth potential – with automotive its driving force. Collaboration will be crucial, making the UK even more globally competitive, attracting investment not just in finished vehicle manufacturing but in its supply chains and adjacent sectors. Providing more sustainable and affordable energy is pivotal, as are free and fair trade agreements which promote UK-made products globally while ensuring access to critical raw materials. A mass UK market for ZEVs is also needed given manufacturers seek to locate close to where their products are sold. Meanwhile, a diverse and skilled workforce that can design, build, manufacture, maintain and repair ZEVs is fundamental to a successful transition. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Britain’s automotive sector has been cutting carbon for decades and this new milestone is significant, not just for industry but for the nation’s move to net zero. We look forward to working with the new government to deliver its green growth agenda that puts Britain at the front of the queue for global investment and sustainability leadership. Automotive can be the driving force behind this strategy, reducing carbon emissions still further while growing the economy, improving air quality and delivering new jobs and skills for people across the country.” The automotive industry is vital to the wider UK economy, with auto-related manufacturing worth £93 billion and delivering £22 billion value added, while typically investing around £4 billion a year in research and development. The sector includes more than 25 manufacturers building over 70 vehicle models, plus specialist small volume manufacturers, supported by some 2,500 supply chain businesses. As a result, the industry’s contribution to employment is significant, with more than 198,000 jobs directly in manufacturing and 813,000 in total across the automotive industry. Many of these are outside London and the Southeast with wages around 13% above the UK average. Automotive also supports jobs in key sectors such as steel, chemicals, plastics, rubber, advertising, finance and logistics. 7 MEASURES TO MAKE SUSTAINABILITY A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN THE UK: Publishing a green automotive transformation strategy that sets out a holistic, joined-up approach and provides a pathway towards the UK automotive industry’s ultimate sustainability and circularity goals Introducing a package of fiscal, tax and regulatory support measures that attract new investment and ensures domestic vehicle producers are globally competitive Providing support and guidance to empower a sustainable, transparent UK supply chain Mobilising a skilled, diverse, empowered UK workforce Developing a UK regulatory ecosystem in partnership with business that is ambitious, deliverable and harmonised with global regulatory requirements and international sustainability objectives Ensuring UK sustainability data requirements match the high ambitions of automotive companies operating across global markets Maintaining and further supporting access to critical raw materials and cross-border trade, building supply chain resilience to attract investment in zero emission and sustainability technologies Notes to editors1 https://media.smmt.co.uk/december-2023-uk-car-manufacturing2 SMMT Vision 2035, page 7 About SMMT and the UK automotive industryThe Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the largest and most influential trade associations, representing the automotive industry in the UK. The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy, integral to growth, the delivery of net zero and the UK as a global trade hub. It contributes £93 billion turnover and £22 billion value added to the UK economy, and invests around £4 billion each year in R&D. With 198,000 people employed directly in manufacturing and some 813,000 across the wider automotive industry. Many of these automotive manufacturing jobs are outside London and the South-East, with wages that are around 13% higher than the UK average. The sector accounts for 12% of total UK exports of goods with more than 140 countries importing UK produced vehicles, generating £115 billion of trade in total automotive imports and exports. The UK manufactures almost every type of vehicle, from cars, to vans, taxis, trucks, buses and coaches, as well as specialist and off-highway vehicles, supported by more than 2,500 component providers and some of the world’s most skilled engineers. In addition, the sector has vibrant aftermarket and remanufacturing industries. The automotive industry also supports jobs in other key sectors – including advertising, chemicals, finance, logistics and steel. More detail on UK Automotive available in SMMT’s Motor Industry Facts publication at www.smmt.co.uk/reports/smmt-motor-industry-facts/ Broadcasters: SMMT has an ISDN studio and access to expert spokespeople, case studies and regional representatives. Media contacts Paul Mauerhoff 07809 522181 pmauerhoff@smmt.co.uk James Boley 07927 668565 jboley@smmt.co.uk Rebecca Gibbs 07708 480889 rgibbs@smmt.co.uk Scott Clarke 07912 799959 sclarke@smmt.co.uk Emma Butcher 07880…

New Renault Symbioz available to order priced from £29,295 OTR

Positioned between Captur and Austral, Renault Symbioz gives Renault a stronger presence at the entry level of the C-segment, with a compact voiture à vivre, tailored to the needs of customers Symbioz is available in three levels of trim – techno, techno esprit Alpine, iconic esprit Alpine E-Tech full hybrid 145 powertrain developed for performance and efficiency, combining a 39 kW electric motor and 18 kW HSG with a 95 bhp 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a 1.2 kWh battery Available to order now priced from £29,295 OTR, with the first customer deliveries in expected in September 2024 Symbioz embodies the best of Renault’s latest C-segment vehicles in terms of modular design, connectivity and efficiency. It has all the qualities necessary to appeal to both families and businesses looking for a level of electrification, while keeping a firm hold on total ownership costs. The latest Renault model shares its DNA with a long line of innovative family-friendly cars that are voiture à vivre (cars for living) and reflect our changing needs. From the Renault 16, first launched in 1965 with its bench seat that included a ‘holiday travel’ position, to the Renault Scénic that introduced the world to the compact MPV in the 1990s. Positioned between Captur and Austral, Symbioz expands the Renault offering at the entry level of the C-segment. Only 4.41m long, this new model rounds out the full-hybrid E-Tech family of Arkana (4.57m) and Austral (4.51m), alongside the E-Tech electric models, with Megane and Scenic electric. Symbioz benefits from the very best in Renault technology. It features the OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in, and the Solarbay tinted glass roof. The top of the range iconic esprit Alpine version boasts 24 new-generation driving aids that elevate safety and driving comfort to the highest levels. Versatile as well as stylish, Symbioz boasts boot space of up 624 litres and a rear seat that slides by 16 cm, creating a flat floor when fully folded and enabling the interior to be easily adapted to customers’ requirements. Weighing under 1,500 kg, Symbioz is also relatively light, which helps to enhance efficiency. Using the E-Tech full hybrid 145 powertrain it produces only 105g/km CO2. Pricing MODEL BIK (2024/2025) BASIC PRICE VAT 20% TOTAL RETAIL PRICE VED YEAR 1 DELIVERY CHARGE FRF OTR PRICE techno E-Tech 26% £23,629.17 £4,725.83 £28,355 £185 £700 £55 £29,295 techno esprit Alpine E-Tech 26% £25,295.83 £5,059.17 £30,355 £185 £700 £55 £31,295 iconic esprit Alpine E-Tech 26% £26,962.50 £5,392.50 £32,355 £185 £700 £55 £33,295 Grade walktechno standard equipment 18-inch alloy wheels shark fin antenna satin chrome window frames dark tinted rear windows and tailgate full LED front and rear lights automatic headlights and wipers with rain sensors automatic high/low beam embossed marled black fabric/titanium black biosourced grained coated fabric with yellow top-stitchingsynthetic leather steering wheel frameless auto-dimming rear view mirror with light and rain sensor automatic air conditioning with one-touch quick demist function and air quality regulator flying console with central storage, sliding armrest and two rear air vents electronic parking brake with auto-hold function front and rear electric windows with driver’s one-touch facility rear window and door child locking function hands-free keycard with keyless access and start driver and front passenger height adjustable seats 60:40 folding sliding rear bench seat ISOFIX child seat fixing points on rear outermost seats modular boot floor 10.4-inch OpenR Link touchscreen with built-in Google Automotive services including navigation, Arkamys audio with 6-speakers, DAB and Bluetooth 10.25-inch digital driver display wireless smartphone charger wireless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto USB-C ports – two front, two rear Driver and passenger front, side, head and curtain airbags passenger airbag deactivation ABS with EBA distance warning alert active emergency braking system – urban and pedestrian/cyclist detection driver attention alert adaptive cruise control with speed limiter front and rear detection with emergency lane keep assist including solid line, oncoming traffic and road edge detection hill start assist rear view camera heated electric folding door mirrors My Safety Shield Renault automatic emergency assist (E-Call) tyre pressure warning light tyre repair kit techno esprit Alpine (in addition to techno) 19-inch esprit Alpine alloy wheels gloss black window frames esprit Alpine interior styling sports pedals and footrest 75% recycled fabric/titanium black grained coated fabric with blue top-stitchingheated synthetic leather steering wheel hands-free electric power tailgate electrically adjustable front seats heated front seats occupant safe exit alert blind spot warning active driver assist – adaptive cruise control with lane centering assist rear cross traffic/pedestrian alert with rear braking assistance iconic esprit Alpine (in addition to techno esprit Alpine) Solarbay opacifying glass sunroof 360° around view 3D camera hands-free parking 9-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system Technical Specifications Powertrain E-Tech full hybrid 145 Auto Type Hybrid petrol electric Capacity (cc) 1598 Bore x stroke (mm) 78 x 83.6 Number of cylinders/valves 4/16 Maximum power (kW/hp) 105 / 145 Maximum torque (Nm) Petrol engine: 149 @ 3,600rpm Electric motors: 250 Battery Type Lithium-ion Number of cells 68 Voltage (V) 150 – 285 Capacity (kWh) 1.26 Gearbox Number of forward gears 6 (4 gears with 2 additional motors) Type Clutchless smart multimode Performance Maximum speed (mph) 106 0 to 62 mph (s) 10.6 Standing 400m (s) 17.9 Standing kilometre (s) 32.6 CO2 (g/km WLTP) 105 – 108 Fuel consumption (mpg) 60.1 Suspension & steering Front suspension MacPherson with rectangular shaped lower arm and anti-roll bar Rear suspension Torsion beam with programmed deflection, coil springs Turning circle between kerbs (m) 11.1 Turns lock-to-lock 2.63 Wheels & tyres 18-inch wheels 215/55 R18 95H 19-inch wheels 225/45 R19 92V Brakes Front discs dia./width (mm) 296/26 Rear discs dia. (mm) 260 Dimensions (mm) Overall length 4413 Wheelbase 2638 Front overhang 892 Rear overhang 890 Overall width with mirrors folded/unfolded 1797/2003 Front track ground 1562 Rear track ground 1547 Overall height 1575 Open tailgate height 2076 Ground clearance unladen / with max. load 169/132 Approach angle at max. load 18 Ramp-over angle at max. load 14 Departure…

Battery technologies of the future: Mercedes-Benz eCampus opens at Stuttgart-Untertürkheim headquarters

New competence centre for development of innovative, high-performance battery cells and new manufacturing processes Ola Källenius: “Our goal is to reduce battery costs by more than 30 percent in the coming years” In 2024, Mercedes-Benz will invest 14 billion euros in research and development and in its plants – a significant proportion will be channelled into the development of batteries and electric drive systems New “Industrial Cell Lab” covers the entire product and process chain of cell development and production, and enables the development of expertise for an economical manufacturing process Investments in the three-digit million range strengthen Stuttgart-Untertürkheim as a high-tech location for drive technologies Sustainable building concept: recycled concrete, green roof including photovoltaics Mercedes-Benz is significantly strengthening its development activities in battery technology. In a ceremony attended by the German Federal Minister of Economic Affairs Robert Habeck, Baden‑Württemberg’s Minister-President Winfried Kretschmann and other high-ranking guests, Mercedes‑Benz opened the eCampus at the heart of its headquarters in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim. It is the competence centre for the development of cells and batteries for the future electric vehicles of the brand with the star. The aim is to develop innovative chemical compositions and optimised production processes for high-performance cells with “Mercedes-Benz DNA” and reduce battery costs by more than 30 percent in the coming years. The Mercedes-Benz eCampus covers the entire field of battery and cell technology. It ranges from the development and evaluation of new cell chemistries and industrial-scale cell production to the testing and certification of complete battery units. “The opening of the Mercedes-Benz eCampus marks an important step in our sustainable business strategy. It is our ambition to also play a leading technological role in electric mobility. The eCampus brings us closer to this goal. The work carried out here will help to reduce battery costs by more than 30 percent in the coming years. By locating the eCampus at the heart of our centre for research and development of drive systems, it signifies a clear commitment to a more sustainable future and to the long heritage of our Stuttgart-Untertürkheim location.” Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG Mercedes-Benz eCampus: concentrated expertise in battery technologies with “Mercedes-Benz DNA”Mercedes-Benz is developing various forms of cell chemistry. Among other things, the company is working on lithium-ion cells with high-energy anodes based on silicon composites and innovative cobalt-free cathode chemistries, as well as on solid-state battery technology. The aim is to develop the best possible cells with “Mercedes-Benz DNA” for high energy density, fast-charging capability and performance and to build up expertise for their industrialisation. Specifically, the energy density can be increased to up to 900 Wh/l through the use of new technologies such as high-silicon anodes or solid electrolytes. The only way to scale up production effectively is through comprehensive knowledge of cell chemistry and design. The knowledge gained flows into series production of battery cells at partner companies – for use in future generations of Mercedes-Benz batteries. The importance of mastering cell chemistry for the development of future products has been demonstrated by the VISION EQXX technology programme, for example. Thanks to a powerful battery with pioneering cell chemistry, this vehicle has set distance and efficiency records for electric vehicles on several journeys. Operations at the new competence centre for battery technologies in the heart of the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim plant will start in two stages. The approximately 10,000-square-metre factory for the industrial production of battery cells has started operations after a construction period of around two years. State-of-the-art production facilities in the “Industrial Cell Lab” make it possible to manufacture and test battery cells with different chemistries on an industrial scale. Several tens of thousands of cells can be produced here every year for the development of future battery generations. The production process consists of a series of automated and manual steps. It covers all battery cell manufacturing steps from electrode production to cell assembly including electrolyte filling, forming with the first charging and discharging processes and finishing. The cell production process has a major influence on the quality of the battery. Mercedes-Benz has therefore the ambition to not only master the chemical composition of the cells, but also the industrial manufacturing process. The new Industrial Cell Lab enables the company to gain expertise in the economical production of cells with “Mercedes-Benz DNA”. It thus complements the two existing cell laboratories: Novel cell chemistries and advanced cell designs are developed and evaluated in the “Chemistry Lab”. In the “Flexible Cell Lab”, the new developments are produced and tested in automotive pouch cells. The new building for the second stage is due to be completed by the end of this year. Among other things, this state-of-the-art test and proving centre will house a battery ramp-up factory for product and process development as well as maturity assurance for large-scale industrial production. Various functions of the test centre at the Nabern site will be transferred to the eCampus in Untertürkheim for this purpose. State-of-the-art test benches are being built on an area of around 20,000 square metres to comprehensively test and prove the safety and service life of batteries. The new Mercedes-Benz eCampus building is located on the site of the former buildings 132/1 and 132/2 in the centre of the Stuttgart-Untertürkheim plant, which looks back on a long and eventful history. The original building 132/1 was built back in 1907 and in its early years housed the production of camshafts and crankshafts. These were used in numerous generations of Mercedes-Benz combustion engines. Over the years, a number of different capabilities were added. These included tool calibration, the central inspection area, the production inspection area for crankshafts and connecting rods and production management for engines. As a competence centre for future drive technologies, the new eCampus plays a key role in the transformation of the plant with a heritage spanning 120 years. 120 years of Mercedes-Benz UntertürkheimWith the new eCampus, Mercedes-Benz is consolidating the role of the largest powertrain facility within its global network, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary…

2024 Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional schedule announced

Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional takes place on Saturday 27th July at Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire A full-day event schedule has been announced today with many special guests 2024 celebrates 10 years of FOTU with thousands of cars on display Gates open 7.30am to 7pm to make the event a full day out Tickets on sale now Media accreditation now open Bicester Heritage: 9th July 2024Hagerty’s world renowned Festival of the Unexceptional celebrates its 10-year anniversary at Grimsthorpe Castle, Lincolnshire on Saturday 27th July, with thousands of mundane motors on display, and a Concours de l’Ordinaire selection of the UK’s finest base-model cars. The 2024 Festival of the Unexceptional will be the most entertaining ever, with a spectacular schedule of activities on the main stage and in the glorious grounds of the Castle. New for 2024 is an earlier opening time with gates opening at 7.30 am, and the first 50 arrivals will receive a special Festival Birthday surprise. Britain’s favourite motoring podcasters Smith and Sniff (Johnny Smith and Richard “Sniff Petrol” Porter) take to the stage with a range of activities where members of the audience will be the stars. The duo first take to the stage at 10am to host the first round of their quirky quiz game Wheeltrim of Misfortune. Here, Smith and Sniff will be testing FOTU fans’ knowledge of all things unexceptional in a brilliant battle of the car bores. FOTU guests can register to take part here. At 11am Smith and Sniff open the Superchod Swap Shop where banter meets barter as the duo connect car enthusiasts looking to trade. Perhaps you’re looking for some seat covers for your SEAT, or wheeltrims for your Wagon R? Maybe you’ve got a set of Mini mudflaps or a Maxi manifold you want to get rid of? Then register now for the Superchod Swap Shop and Smith and Sniff will aid with the exchange. At 11.30am motoring journalists Jeff Ruggles and Chris Pollitt join Wayne Scott for a FOTU Flashback to discuss the highlights of ten unexceptional years of Britain’s most ordinary car show. Then at midday Smith and Sniff will be back for a live recording of their award-winning podcast. Frankly we have no idea what they’ll talk about or how long this will last – and, true to form, neither to they. All we do know is that it will be as eclectic and entertaining as always. Johnny and Richard will follow this with a Superchod Swap Shop update and then the FOTU house band will hit the stage. Wheeltrim of Misfortune returns for round two at 2pm and there’ll be a final update on the Superchod Swap Shop at 3pm. Paul Cowland hosts a Completely Unexceptional Pub Quiz at 4pm where he will be giving away a plethora of prizes including a £200 detailing and valeting kit courtesy of Dodo Juice for the quiz winner. At 5pm comes the moment that enthusiasts of the ordinary have been waiting for – the Festival of the Unexceptional Awards. Chief Judge Danny Hopkins and his panel will reveal the winners for every class of mediocre motor. The grand finale will be a Disco of the Unexceptional, with top tunes from the Eighties and Nineties and your chance to bust a move before the show closes at 7pm. To participate in this packed programme enthusiasts are encouraged to grab the last remaining tickets here. The entry price of £35 is per car, so if you can pack a Previa that’s just £7 per person for a full day’s fun. Timetable at a glance 7:30am Gates Open8am: FOTU Birthday Surprise9am: Stage Opens – Wayne Scott welcomes you to the 2024 Festival of the Unexceptional10am: Smith and Sniff Present: Wheeltrim of Misfortune11am: Smith and Sniff open the Superchod Swap Shop11:30am: FOTU Flashback with Jeff Ruggles, Chris Pollitt and Wayne Scott 12pm:Smith and Sniff, Podcast LIVE1pm: Superchod Swap Shop Update!1:15pm: Live Music, courtesy of RIOT2pm: Smith and Sniff Present: Wheeltrim of Misfortune 23pm: Superchod Swap Shop Update!3:15pm: Live Music, courtesy of RIOT4:00pm: Paul Cowland’s Completely Unexceptional Pub Quiz5:00pm: 2024 Festival of the Unexceptional Awards5:30pm: FOTU Photos – A chance to snap your car in front of the iconic Vanbrugh Hall5:30pm: The Disco of the Unexceptional 7:00pm: Close of Show Launched in 2014, Hagerty’s Festival of the Unexceptional is a show dedicated to great everyday classic cars that has earned its place as a must-attend event in the automotive calendar. Showcasing much maligned and long-forgotten ‘ordinary’ classic cars of the 70s, 80s and 90s, it remains the only event to celebrate the everyday cars we all know and love. Media accreditation can be requested here. Ends. Editors Notes About Hagerty, Inc. (NYSE: HGTY)With a headquarters based in Traverse City, Michigan, Hagerty’s purpose is to save driving and car culture for future generations and its mission is to build a global business to fund that purpose. Hagerty is an automotive enthusiast brand offering integrated membership products and programs as well as a specialty insurance provider focused on the global automotive enthusiast market. Hagerty is home to Hagerty Marketplace, Hagerty Drivers Club®, Hagerty Drivers Club magazine, Hagerty Drivers Foundation, Hagerty DriveShare™, Hagerty Valuation Tools®, Hagerty Media, MotorsportReg, Hagerty Garage + Social®, The Amelia, the Detroit Concours d’Elegance, the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, the California Mille, Motorlux, RADwood, Broad Arrow Group and more. In the UK, Hagerty operates the renowned Festival of the Unexceptional event, in addition to RADwood UK and the Hagerty Hillclimb. For more information on Hagerty please visit www.hagerty.co.uk. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For further information, call 0333 323 0989 or visit www.hagertyinsurance.co.uk Media enquiries: media@tonic-collective.com

Businesses invited to take part in trial of next-generation vehicle to grid EV charging

Free charger for fleet/workplace EV charging trial Opportunity to lower carbon emissions and reduce energy costs Project is part of the V2X Innovation Programme Companies are invited to take part in a trial of new, next-generation vehicle to grid (V2G) electric vehicle (EV) workplace charging technology which offers the opportunity to lower carbon emissions and reduce energy costs. Trial participants will be provided with a free V2G EV charger which can be kept after the end of the project. V2G technology enables EVs to be charged at times when electricity costs are low, and then put energy back into the grid, or into a building or even another EV, when electricity costs are higher. Businesses that are looking to demonstrate leadership in sustainability are invited to apply to take part in the V2VNY project, which aims to demonstrate, test and refine V2G technology, pushing the boundaries of charging technology and paving the way for its broader adoption. The project is being led by Hangar 19, in partnership with DriveElectric and CrowdCharge. DriveElectric is an electric vehicle leasing company that has been helping organisations and individuals to adopt EVs to save money, lower emissions and transition to low carbon energy since 2008. CrowdCharge, a unique AI-powered technology with patented optimisation tools, helps to unlock maximum value from V2X services across individual vehicles to fleets and workplace ecosystems, enabling them to better predict and manage usage, save money and carbon. Other project partners are Grid Beyond, Oxfordshire County Council, Electric Corby and JLR. JLR will be providing prototype electric vehicles for use in the trial. This is one of the first V2G trials in the UK to use AC charging with the latest generation of EVs featuring ‘vehicle to load’ technology; most previous V2G trials used Nissan and Mitsubishi vehicles with CHAdeMO DC charging technology. Trial participants need at least two electric vehicles on their fleet which feature vehicle to load technology from the brands of Genesis, Hyundai, Kia or MG. Businesses will be provided with a free 7kW AC bidirectional charger with two sockets and a software package to optimise the charging, worth in total over £5,750. Participants can keep the charger after the trial but will have to pay for the installation of the charger and for continued use of the software after the end of the trial. Mike Potter, CEO of CrowdCharge and DriveElectric, says: “The UK has a huge and largely untapped battery storage capability in the form of over one million electric vehicles that spend most of their time parked up. Using this resource can help reduce the load on electricity networks at peak times, as well as lowering costs and carbon. This project will trial how the latest EVs can be used as mini power plants to benefit businesses, electricity operators and the country as a whole.” Recruiting is already underway for the V2VNY trial which commences in September 2024 and which will run through to the end of March 2025. Most chargers are allocated but the last remaining few are available to forward-thinking companies that are keen to be part of this next-generation project and that apply quickly. The V2VNY Phase 2 project, part of the V2X Innovation Programme, is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), delivered by Innovate-UK. The V2X Innovation Programme is part of the up to £65m Flexibility Innovation Programme, funded from the £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio. For more information and to check eligibility for the trial please visit:https://www.drive-electric.co.uk/our-story/projects/v2vny-a-workplace-charging-project/ Editor’s NotesAbout the V2VNY projectThe increase in electric vehicle numbers means there are now over one million large capacity battery packs in the UK that sit idle most of the time. Bidirectional charging can be used to send energy in a vehicle’s battery to the grid, to buildings, or to other vehicles, and to trade energy. The project will look at how this battery capacity can be used to improve how, where, and when energy is used, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions and saving energy costs. Eligibility criteriaTo take part in the V2VNY project, businesses need to have at least two of the following electric cars on their fleet: • Genesis GV60• Hyundai IONIQ 5• Hyundai IONIQ 6• Hyundai Kona (2023 onwards)• Kia EV6• Kia EV9• Kia Niro EV (2023 onwards)• MG 4• MG 5• MG ZS (2021 onwards) About DriveElectricDriveElectric is a pioneer in all things electric vehicles (EVs). Over 15 years, our goal has been simple: to inform, inspire, and implement the use of green energy on our roads, so that we can drive towards Net Zero, fast. Ready to take charge? The planet and its people remain at the very heart of everything we do – and we have the ‘excellent’ TrustPilot ratings to prove it. With years of industry experience, our expert consultants pride themselves on providing our customers with honest and practical support on making the EV switch. We take a unique tailor-made approach to our service. This ensures every driver finds their own perfect solution, and businesses feel empowered to become carbon neutral. From the very first conversations right through to the adoption and beyond – we’ll be there every step of the way to guide you in your business’ journey to Net Zero. Our services don’t stop there. We’ve spent the last 10 years working with our sister company, CrowdCharge, to perfect our super smart charging solution, the EV HUB Charge+. This cutting-edge technology has been specifically created to enable drivers to charge their EVs according to their exact needs. It’s an intuitive innovation proven to break all barriers – empowering the drive towards a greener future for all. So go ahead and put your foot on the accelerator. With DriveElectric, we can soon be on the road to zero emissions. Get started here: www.drive-electric.co.uk Media contact for DriveElectricPaul Clarke, Automotive Commspaul.clarke@automotivecomms.co.ukM: 07866 770029