Renault and Dacia launch official eBay stores, expanding access to genuine vehicle parts and accessories

Industry News

eBay launches official Renault and Dacia stores, offering easy access to genuine parts and accessories for both older and current vehicle models The partnership enhances vehicle maintenance by providing thousands of high-quality parts, supported by eBay Assured Fit guarantee and My Garage feature Renault and Dacia join eBay’s prestigious lineup of official OEM stores, solidifying eBay’s position as a leading marketplace for authentic vehicle parts and accessories London, 17 September 2024 – eBay, one of the leading UK online marketplaces for automotive parts and accessories, has announced the launch of official stores for Renault and Dacia. This partnership makes it easier than ever for owners of these popular vehicle brands to find and purchase a comprehensive selection of genuine parts and accessories, catering to both older and current models. The addition of Renault and Dacia to eBay’s growing lineup of official OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) stores marks a significant expansion in eBay’s commitment to offering high-quality, authentic products to customers. Whether you own a classic model or the latest release, the new stores provide a wide range of parts, ensuring that you can maintain your vehicle with components that meet the manufacturers’ exacting standards, including their corresponding warranties. Abir Tewari, Director of Commercial Operations – Parts and Accessories at eBay UK Ltd, commented: “We’re excited to welcome Renault and Dacia to eBay’s expanding collection of official OEM stores. This collaboration means that our customers now have even greater access to a broad array of genuine parts and accessories, all with the confidence of eBay Assured Fit. It’s another step forward in our mission to make vehicle maintenance more accessible and reliable for everyone.” Mathieu Mignon, Director of Aftersales at Renault Group UK, said: “Launching eBay stores for both Renault and Dacia marks a significant milestone for us. We know that owners will benefit greatly from the convenience and accessibility of eBay as a platform for sourcing essential parts and accessories for their vehicles. We look forward to expanding our stores further and continuing this valuable partnership with eBay.” Renault and Dacia owners can now browse through thousands of official parts, ranging from essential servicing items like oil and air filters to wear-and-tear components such as brakes and exhausts. All parts come with the assurance of manufacturer quality and eBay Assured Fit guarantee, which promises a full refund if the part does not fit, provided it’s returned within 30 days. Customers can also take advantage of eBay’s My Garage feature, allowing them to enter their vehicle registration number to ensure that the parts they’re purchasing are a perfect fit for their specific model. This user-friendly tool, combined with the extensive selection available in the new Renault and Dacia stores, makes it easier than ever for owners to keep their vehicles in top condition. Renault and Dacia now join a prestigious lineup of official eBay OEM stores, including Ford, BMW, MINI, Toyota, Lexus and Suzuki . This expansion broadens eBay’s offerings, providing customers with the best products from the brands they trust.

Limited and highly exclusive: Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ “Motorsport Collectors Edition”

Industry News

Special model limited to 200 units Exclusive paintwork with star pattern and PETRONAS-coloured contrasting elements Fully equipped including edition-specific car cover Affalterbach. As part of the Formula 1™ Singapore Grand Prix, Mercedes‑AMG is presenting the highly exclusive GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ “Motorsport Collectors Edition“ (combined energy consumption: 14.0 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 319 g/km | CO₂ class: G)[1]. With numerous individual design elements and equipment details, it creates a close link to the Mercedes‑AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Even the base obsidian black metallic colour is inspired by the team’s current Formula 1™ racing car. The same applies to the hand-painted star pattern with silver Mercedes stars on the rear flanks and the filigree, PETRONAS-coloured decorative stripes. These extend from the front fenders over the belt line to the roof. There are also further PETRONAS-coloured contrasts: these can be seen on the front splitter, on the flics of the side air intakes of the front apron, on the decorative elements in the side sill panels and on the rear diffuser attachment. The 21‑inch AMG forged wheels with a matte black finish and cross-spoke design are accentuated with PETRONAS-coloured rim flanges. The brake callipers of the standard AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system with six-piston fixed callipers at the front and one-piston floating callipers at the rear are also the same colour. The front axle is fitted with 420 millimetre brake discs. The “Motorsport Collectors Edition” rides on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R Cup tyres as standard. Their dimensions are 295/30 ZR 21 at the front and 305/30 ZR 21 at the rear. The standard AMG Exterior Carbon Fibre package, with its front splitter, trim strips in the side sills and diffuser and rear wing in high-quality carbon fibre, emphasises the proximity to motorsport. The scope of equipment also includes the panoramic glass roof and the AMG Aerodynamics package with a fixed rear wing on the tailgate. The AMG Night Package II reinforces the individual visual appearance of the “Motorsport Collectors Edition”. It comprises elements in black chrome, including radiator trim, typography and Mercedes star at the rear. The AMG fuel filler cap in silver chrome with “AMG” lettering also emphasises the special status of the edition. PETRONAS-coloured details also found in the interiorThe interior is also characterised by numerous PETRONAS-coloured details. The standard AMG Performance seats are upholstered in black Nappa leather/MICROCUT microfibre with PETRONAS-coloured topstitching and embossed AMG crests in the head restraints. The AMG trim elements in carbon harmonise with the heated AMG Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT leather/microfibre with PETRONAS-coloured topstitching. This stitching can also be found on the door trim panels, the instrument panel and the centre console. The AMG door-sill trims are coated in black and illuminated in the colour of PETRONAS. The Burmester High End3D Surround Sound System, with 15 loudspeakers and 1,170 watts of system power, is standard in this very extensively equipped special model. There is also the 360o camera, MBUX Interior Assistant, Driver Assistance Package and head-up display. AMG TRACK PACE provides support with a wealth of data when driving on the racetrack. A system to raise the front axle can be used to lift the front of the vehicle prior to crossing speed bumps or kerbs. The ambient lighting and the ENERGIZING package contribute to a sense of well-being on long journeys. The “‘1 out of 200” edition badge in the centre console indicates the limited edition of the special model. To protect this valuable edition from theft and vandalism, the model is equipped with GUARD 360o vehicle monitoring. Each customer also receives a customised, edition-specific AMG indoor car cover. With its breathable outer skin made of tear-resistant synthetic fibre fabric and an antistatic inner fabric made of flannel, it protects the vehicle from dust and scratches in the garage. The Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ as a “Motorsport Collectors Edition” is aimed at car enthusiasts and collectors who are looking for a particularly sporty driving experience and are Formula 1™ fans. 450 kW (612 hp) of power from the AMG 4.0‑litre V8 biturbo engine, aerodynamic fine-tuning with reduced lift and more powerful cooling contribute to enhanced driving dynamics. Contact:Catrin Dunz-Ludwig, phone: +49 (0) 176 309 978 55, catrin.dunz-ludwig@mercedes-benz.comFelix Siggemann, phone: +49 (0) 176 309 346 05, felix.siggemann@mercedes-benz.com Further information about Mercedes-AMG is available at www.mercedes-amg.com. Press information and digital services for journalists and multipliers can be found on our Mercedes-Benz Media online platform at media.mercedes-benz.com. Learn more about current topics and events related to Mercedes-Benz Cars & Vans on our @MB_Press X channel at www.twitter.com/MB_Press. Mercedes‑Benz AG at a glanceMercedes‑Benz AG is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Group AG with a total of around 166,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes‑Benz Cars and Mercedes‑Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes‑Benz brand with Mercedes‑AMG, Mercedes‑Maybach and G‑Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes‑Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of luxury passenger cars. In 2023 it sold around two million passenger cars and 447,800 vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes‑Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes‑Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes‑Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain. [1]The specified values were determined according to the prescribed measurement procedure WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure). The ranges given refer to the…

Protean Electric-led consortium awarded £5.5 million APC grant to accelerate IWM development and boost UK net-zero future

Industry News

Farnham, UK – [18 September 2024] – Protean Electric (Protean) the world-leading developer of in-wheel motors (IWM) can confirm its consortium has secured a £5.5 million Collaborative Research and Development grant from the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC). The funding was announced yesterday by Sarah Jones, Minister of State at both the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the Department for Business and Trade, during a tour of Protean’s Farnham-based HQ. The project, named PULSE (Power electronics Upscale for Localisation and Sustainable Electrification), will be led by Protean and will advance its state-of-the-art of IWM and, in conjunction with Unipart Manufacturing, amongst other consortium members, will deliver a dedicated make-like-production pilot line for power electronics systems used by IWM and other net-zero products. Sarah Jones, Minister of State at both the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the Department for Business and Trade, said, “Labour is committed to boosting the jewel in the crown of our manufacturing base – the automotive industry. Working in partnership with industry this fund will drive innovation and propel the development of next generation zero emission vehicle technologies.” Andrew Whitehead, Chief Executive Officer of Protean Electric, said, “We are thrilled that project PULSE has been selected by the APC and the new Government, as it supports Protean to continue to lead electric vehicle innovation from our UK development centre. Protean’s state-of-the-art in-wheel motors are a key solution to improve range, user experience and most importantly affordability of electric vehicles. We were delighted to welcome Minister Jones yesterday and would like to thank her for the new Government’s continued commitment towards net-zero, and look forward to engaging further on these topics in the future.” The project PULSE consortium draws on other UK-based engineering and innovation partners. Unipart will bring decades of advanced manufacturing expertise to create a first-of-its-kind flexible assembly line, that can build a mixture of inverters and converters, including Viritech’s advanced DC/DC 800V converter. The collaboration builds on sensor technology from Transense and recycling processes from Hypromag, and will further improve efficiency and sustainability through industrialising best-in-class research from Coventry University and Warwick Manufacturing Group.

Carlotta Adreani, of TeleGiornale 5, the second most important TV news in Italy, joins WWCOTY

Industry News

With Carlotta Adreani’s appointment, the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year initiative now features 78 jurors from around the globe 19 September 2024 – The Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) is pleased to announce that Carlotta Adreani, from TG5 TV News, has joined its international jury. WWCOTY is the only car award in the world composed exclusively of women motoring journalists, and with Carlotta Adreani’s appointment, it now features 78 judges from 54 countries. In TG5 (TeleGiornale 5), the most important TV program in Italy, Carlotta Adreani talks about economics and cars. She pays special attention to all the major car shows, news coming on the market and the future of the technologies. The most crucial moment for her career was when she was asked to create a motoring column within TG5. It marked the beginning of her professional path in the world of motors, a path of studies and great satisfaction. “I love this sector and I think that being lucky enough to be able to do the job I love is truly a gift,” she says. “In fact, my passion for cars dates back to my childhood and among my toys was a F40, which I still have,” she confesses. About Italy Italy is a country with the highest number of cars in relation to its inhabitants. It remains the country with the oldest car fleet in Europe, with an average car age of 12-13 years. There are many Italians who put off changing their car due to the uncertainty about which engine to choose. 100% electric cars are still in a precarious position because few people own garages in which they can install their wall boxes and as a consequence the numbers are down. In Rome, for example, the more prominent models are city cars. Lately, hybrids and electric vehicles are more prominent because they allow free access to the historical center. —————— About Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year is the only car awards group in the world comprised exclusively of women motoring journalists. It was created by New Zealand motoring journalist Sandy Myhre in 2009. She is Honorary President while Marta García is Executive President. This unique award aims to recognise the best cars of the year and to give a voice to women in the automotive world. The voting criteria are based on the same principles that guide any driver when choosing a car. The jurors do not select a ‘woman’s car’ because cars are not gender specific. Aspects such as safety, quality, price, design, ease of driving, benefits and environmental footprint, among others, are considered when casting the votes. However, beyond choosing the best cars of the year, our goal is also to give visibility to women in the automotive world and to contribute to making women’s voices heard on all continents because mobility for a woman means access to many personal and professional possibilities. wwcoty.net info@wwcoty.net Supported by

Autosales Subaru of Kirriemuir supports Tina McGuff and Scottish Mental Health First Aid for schools

Industry News

18th September 2024 – Autosales Subaru of Kirriemuir is lending its support to Tina McGuff, Mental Health advocate and trainer, with the use of a new Subaru Forester as she tours schools to deliver important and empowering talks, workshops and training. Tina McGuff is a published Author, Mental Health & Eating Disorders Trainer, Public Speaker and Campaigner. Speaking at the handover of the new vehicle, she said “I’m deeply grateful to Autosales of Kirriemuir for their generous support. This incredible gesture will significantly enhance my ability to reach more schools and impact the lives of our future generations. This car is not just a means of transportation; it’s a vessel that will carry the message of mental health and personal growth to countless students, making a substantial difference, one school at a time.” The Subaru Forester, thanks to its renowned reliability and All-Wheel-Drive capability, will prove especially useful in the coming months. It will allow Tina to attend those schools in harder-to-reach locations across the Scottish Highlands during the winter months and in all weather conditions. The tour began at St. Paul’s RC Academy on Wednesday, 18th September. Tina added “Thanks to everyone involved for sharing in this vision, and the belief that nurturing mental wellbeing and self-awareness in our youth is paramount. A special shoutout to Bruce and Barrie at Autosales Subaru for their kindness and belief in this cause.” Barrie Ewart, Dealer Principal at Autosales Subaru, Kirriemuir said “We are delighted to support Tina and her vital work. Tina has been known to us here at the dealership for over 15 years and when the opportunity was presented to us to assist, we didn’t need to think twice. We firmly believe in what Tina has to offer in terms of mental health awareness coaching and are delighted to offer our support.” The Subaru Forester is a tough, practical, and confidence-inspiring SUV, built to handle life in the countryside and off the beaten track. Offering outstanding capability when the going gets tough, the Subaru Forester boasts 220mm of ground clearance and permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive along with the brand’s renowned X-MODE® off-road system, ensuring maximum grip and traction, and exceptional road holding, whatever the weather or terrain conditions.

NISMO 40th anniversary

Industry News

Celebrating four decades of people, passion, and performance YOKOHAMA, Japan – Nissan today marks the 40th anniversary of NISMO. Established on 17th September 1984 as Nissan Motorsport International Co. Limited, NISMO, is the in-house tuning, motorsports, and performance division of Nissan. The brand represents the embodiment of the company’s dedication to performance, both on the racetrack and on public roads. Originally located in Omori, Tokyo, NISMO has served as the driving force behind some of Nissan’s most exhilarating vehicles and motorsports pursuits. The company’s ethos of ‘Track to road” embodies its goal to deliver the ultimate Nissan performance for road car drivers, drawing inspiration and learnings from the most unforgiving proving ground – the racetrack. In celebration of the milestone, visitors to Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery in Yokohama, Japan can see a mix of NISMO road-going models such as the ultra-rare NISMO 270R, and the revered NISMO 400R, alongside track icons such as Nissan R390 GT1, which secured 3rd place in the 1998 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 24 Hours of Daytona- winning Nissan R91CP and Japan Touring Car Championship (JTCC) icon, the Calsonic Skyline GT-R Group A. Additionally, vehicle’s from NISMO’s current Japan domestic model line-up, including the recently launched Ariya NISMO, AURA NISMO and FAIRLADY Z NISMO are on display. The exhibition runs until Tuesday 15th October 2024. Head of Nissan’s global motorsports business unit and president of NMC Takao Katagiri said ” We would like to thank everyone who has supported NISMO since 1984 and we look forward to delivering speed, confidence and exhilaration for decades to come. Our longstanding ethos of track to road, continues with our Super GT and Formula E factory racing programs.” Speaking to the future, Katagiri said “Our aim is to deliver exhilaration for fans at the circuit and embed the learnings from the racetrack, into products customers can buy. Our long-term goal is to progressively expand our business globally, delivering more exciting NISMO models to customers around the world.” For fans, the celebration continues with the 2024 NISMO Festival, scheduled on December 1 at Fuji International Speedway (in Shizuoka Prefecture). This year’s festival is dedicated to NISMO’s 40th anniversary, paying homage to the brand’s rich heritage, racing achievements and the evolution of its high-performance road cars. # # # Contact nissan_japan_communications@mail.nissan.co.jp Press Contacts Martin BayntunProduct and Corporate Communications ManagerT: M: (+44) 07989 666412E: martin.bayntun@nissan.co.uk To learn more about the NISMO brand see here. For more information about our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissan-global.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles applauds Britain’s Fittest Farmers 2024

Industry News

Fitness competition finale crowns four category winners Annual contest starts conversations around the wellbeing of Britain’s farmers Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles sponsors the annual challenge Milton Keynes, UK, September 17 2024 – The Volkswagen Amarok helped shine a headlight on farmers’ physical and mental wellbeing at the Farmers Weekly ‘Britain’s Fittest Farmer’ 2024 competition. After battling through several rounds of challenging events, Emily Ashford was crowned Fittest Farmer in the female under 40 category; William Arden in the male under 40 category; Anne Grindal in the female over 40s; and Michael Georgiou in the male over 40s. The final is comprised of a physical assault course designed to test the competitors’ speed, power and endurance, judged by Tom Kemp, of Farm Fitness. Established by the agricultural publication, Farmers Weekly, in 2018, the annual competition celebrates the nation’s farming community while championing fitness and mental wellbeing. This year’s final was hosted in Essex. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has been a key sponsor of Britain’s Fittest Farmer for two years, helping encourage health and wellbeing in the farming community. The brand continues to champion the work that farmers do, through events that bring the community together, and by supplying quality products designed for hard work. Andrew Meredith, Editor of Farmers Weekly, said: “Congratulations to our 2024 winners, Emily, William, Anne and Michael. The annual Britain’s Fittest Farmer Competition brings together people from all over the country and shines a light on physical and mental wellbeing in the farming community. We’re thankful to our sponsors, including Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, that consistently contribute to and amplify the conversations surrounding this incredibly important issue.” Laura Bignall, Brand and Performance Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “It is vital to ensure everyone has good mental and physical wellbeing, for all workplaces, but especially in demanding jobs such as farming. We’re proud to sponsor such an important, and fun, event, which aligns with our continued effort to promote mental and physical wellbeing across all sectors of trade.” Those who attended the event in-person also had the chance to check out the Volkswagen Amarok, which was on hand at the final with healthy snacks and a massage tent for the athletes. The pick-up truck is designed to facilitate work and recreational requirements, both on and off-road, with a robust design featuring advanced driver safety technology and the capacity to tow up to 3.5 tonnes. More information on the new Amarok can be found here: https://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/en/new-vehicles/new-amarok.html 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 5AN Telephone 01908 601478www.vwpress.co.uk 04324/LB

60 years of the Goldfinger Phantom: a timeless Bond of luxury and legend

Industry News

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrates 60 years of the iconic James Bond film, Goldfinger 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III used by film’s villain, Auric Goldfinger, to smuggle gold Perfectly suited to the task: powerful Phantom III was the first ever V12 Rolls-Royce Phantom III was the final model that Henry Royce developed before his death in 1933 Rolls-Royce will be making a special announcement on 25 October “Today marks the 60th anniversary of Phantom’s most memorable big-screen debut in the 1964 James Bond film, Goldfinger. The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville used in the film is both the perfect accomplice for its villain, Auric Goldfinger, and an enduring muse within our brand. The model used also holds a special place in the Rolls-Royce canon as it was the final motor car personally developed by our visionary founder, Sir Henry Royce. I look forward to announcing a brilliant new chapter in this story imminently.”Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “This is gold, Mr. Bond. All my life, I’ve been in love with its colour, its brilliance, its divine heaviness.”Auric Goldfinger, Auric Enterprises Rolls-Royce motor cars have featured in a dozen James Bond films throughout the film franchise’s history. However, the marque’s most enduring and memorable role is in the 007 film, Goldfinger. This cinematic classic came to define the essential qualities of a Bond film; the design, the locations, the gadgets, and the eccentric adversary. Today, on the anniversary of the film’s premiere on 17 September 1964, Rolls-Royce explores the story of Goldfinger and the British icon that featured in it – the Rolls-Royce Phantom. The film sees eponymous villain, Auric Goldfinger, driven by his henchman, Oddjob, across Europe in an exquisite 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville. The coachwork of this imperious motor car holds a secret – it is made from two tonnes of solid 18-carat gold, which Goldfinger is smuggling from England, across the continent and over the challenging Furka Pass into Switzerland. Once safely installed in Auric Enterprises, he uses his alpine smelting plant to disassemble his Rolls-Royce, melting down the body panels into gold bars. With the original coachwork replaced, he returns his motor car to England and repeats this nefarious crossing. Goldfinger’s master plan, named ‘Operation Grand Slam’, is far more ambitious; he plans to irradiate the gold stored in the Fort Knox Bullion Depository with an atomic device, rendering it worthless, driving the value of his own reserves into the stratosphere. Goldfinger’s choice of a Phantom III for smuggling gold is as brilliant as the precious metal that compels him. Its generous proportions allow for a significant amount of contraband to be concealed, and the gold’s ‘divine weight’ would do little to hinder this potent motor car’s performance, even on the demanding alpine roads. Phantom III was the first V12-powered Rolls-Royce in history, producing 165bhp from its 7.3-litre engine, a 37.5% increase in power from its predecessor, the 120bhp Phantom II. Phantom III was also the last motor car to be developed by Henry Royce himself, prior to his death in 1933. It includes a number of innovations that would have greatly improved those smuggling runs for Goldfinger. Its suspension system incorporates fully adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers which can be controlled from the driver’s seat, allowing Oddjob to fine-tune the ride depending on whether the motor car was laden or not. The specific motor car used by Goldfinger is equipped with an open front and enclosed rear ‘Sedanca de Ville’ – or Town Car – body by coachbuilders Barker. Its commanding presence prompts Bond himself to remark, “She’s a beauty… Phantom III ‘37, isn’t she?” as Oddjob loads Goldfinger’s signature gold golf club and harlequin umbrella into the boot outside Stoke Park, the private sporting estate where Bond first meets them. Goldfinger’s Phantom III wears the numberplate ‘AU 1’, a reference to the chemical symbol for gold on the periodic table of elements. While this was an obvious choice for the filmmakers, its designation has more simple origins. AU was the original British numberplate code designating that a motor car had been registered in Nottingham and AU 1 was issued in 1901 for one of the first vehicles in the area. After being used in the film, it was subsequently transferred to other Rolls-Royce motor cars, following its big-screen debut. Prior to its role in the film, this Phantom III was originally commissioned for American-born Huttleston Rogers Broughton, who settled in England and became the first Lord Fairhaven of Anglesey Abbey. Challenging the conventions of the time, it was painted almost entirely in black, including all lamp housings, bumpers, wheel discs and even the rear-view mirror surround. It included a white coachline, which highlighted the bonnet sides and top, and the chrome radiator shutters were sandblasted for a more subdued finish. The instruments included imperial and metric measurements, as it would be used by Lord Fairhaven on roads in Britain and Continental Europe. The motor car’s signature two-tone yellow and black finish was then applied for its appearance in Goldfinger. At 14:00 BST, on 25 October, Rolls-Royce will open a new chapter in the ‘AU 1’ Phantom story, furthering the legacy of this extraordinary motor car, and Rolls-Royce’s connection to the James Bond film franchise.

Isuzu extends Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials partnership

Industry News

Isuzu UK announces its second year as the Official Automotive Partner of the widely recognised Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials. The Pick-Up Professionals will exhibit five D-Max pick-ups including the limited STEEL Edition and the Expedition Edition built for go-anywhere campers. Visitors will have the chance to experience the D-Max in action through an exclusive off-roading experience, showcasing its 4WD capabilities and rugged features. Isuzu UK is proud to announce its second year as the Official Automotive Partner of the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials (BPIHT). The strategic partnership ensures the effective management of the event, with The Pick-Up Professionals providing over 30 vehicles to assist in key operations. Taking place on the 19th – 22nd of September, BPIHT 2024 is set to attract equestrian fans from across the country, with Dressage, Cross Country, and Showjumping events promising splendour and delight for all spectators who enjoy everything equine. Eagle-eyed guests are also encouraged to look out for the Isuzu-sponsored cross-country fence, fittingly coined ‘The Isuzu Challenger’. This year, Isuzu will be exhibiting a 360-degree stand, showcasing five of the most exciting pick-ups in the Isuzu range, including the renowned limited-run STEEL Edition, and the ARB showcase vehicle, Expedition Edition. The former showcases its unique Steel Grey Mica colour SUV level comfort and quality, whilst retaining the workhorse DNA of a pick-up. Expedition Edition displays the extensive accessory potential of the D-Max to build the ultimate camping machine, enabling drivers to access places and locations which would otherwise be impossible. Attendees of BPIHT will also get to come face to face with the D-Max, with the opportunity to learn its off-road capabilities and features at the Isuzu off-roading experience. With the help of professional drivers, BPIHT visitors will have the opportunity to explore the D-Max’s shift-on-the-fly 4WD system, rear differential lock, high approach angles, and hill descent control. George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, stated: “We’re excited to be involved with the International Horse Trials at Blenheim Palace for the second year in a row. The D-Max has proven to be the perfect vehicle for assisting the event’s operations and it is fantastic to see our branding across all corners of the show. This is an exciting partnership with an industry where Isuzu has a strong reputation for capability, for example a 1 tonne payload combined with a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, the 4×4 D-Max is a true workhorse not a show pony.” Catherine Bishop, Head of Operations at BPIHT, commented: “Last year, Isuzu partnered up with us as the Official Automotive Sponsor to great success. The D-Max proved itself a wonderful pick-up which fulfilled all its various duties across the event, so it was a no-brainer that they return this year continuing this strong partnership for both sides.” The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials have been running since 1990, featuring some of the best riders in the world competing in various equestrian events. Most recently, Ros Canter on Izilot DHI took the crown at the 2023 BPIHT. Featured in the beautiful and historic venue of Blenheim Palace, home of the Duke of Marlborough, the backdrop is set for an exciting event this year. Note to Editors For further Isuzu D-Max news, images, and press information, please visit www.isuzumedia.co.uk.To keep up with the latest news from the brand, follow us on Twitter @IsuzuUKPR.For more information on the Isuzu range visit www.isuzu.co.uk or follow us on social media. PR CONTACTS Filip CzajkowskiPR Manager07407 6295210121 730 8071fczajkowski@isuzu.co.uk Thomas DavisPR & Content Executive07391 053044tdavis@isuzu.co.uk ABOUT ISUZUFrom the day we were founded in 1916 in Japan, and when we started Isuzu UK in 1987 to import and distribute our legendary Trooper model, we have always been about what our customers need and want. Today, equipped with a punchy turbo diesel engine, the Isuzu D-Max pick-up is leading the charge, delivering 164PS and 360Nm of torque. Each new model comes with a 125,000 mile/5-year warranty and 5 years UK and European roadside assistance. With towing capabilities of 3.5 tonnes, a maximum payload of 1,205kg and a 4×4 drive, the Isuzu D-Max works for customers day and night achieving up to 39.4mpg, meeting Euro 6D emissions standards. Isuzu are the pick-up professionals. We are best placed to discuss pick-ups with professionals, aiming to meet our customers every individual need. At Isuzu, we only make commercial vehicles. We focus on making our pick-ups tough, strong, and built to go the distance.

New Renault Master conquers 33rd International Van of the Year Award 2025

Industry News

The fourth generation Renault Master was announced as the International Van of the Year 2025 at the ‘Night of the Stars’ Gala Banquet at the IAA Transportation 2024 event in Hannover, Germany on Monday 16th September. A unanimous decision by the expert adjudication panel representing 25 countries across Europe voted the new Renault Master as their number one choice and for the first time, joint runners-up were elected, with the new Ford E-Transit Custom and Stellantis ProOne Large Van range sharing the second step on the podium. The new Ford Transit Courier and latest Mercedes-Benz eSprinter completed the shortlist of candidates. It was the fifth occasion in the 33 year history of the International Van of the Year Award (IVOTY) that the Renault Group won this prestigious honour, with the second generation Master successful in 1998, followed by the Trafic in 2002 with the Kangoo Z.E. breaking the mould, becoming the first all-electric commercial vehicle to win this award in 2012, followed by the next Kangoo Van in 2022 (shared with the Mercedes-Benz Citan II) and now with the new Master for 2025. “The IVOTY jury were impressed with the complete new design and high levels of innovation and technology developed for the new Master range, which features advanced aerodynamics, increased usability and enhanced efficiency, space, safety and comfort. Plus the fact that its new modular platform accommodates diesel, electric and hydrogen powertrains. All attributes that meet the criteria for the award programme. Future proofed. Congratulations to Renault Light Commercials on this well-deserved achievement,” commented Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, International Van of the Year Award jury. On receiving the IVOTY 2025 trophy at the Messe Hannover event, Heinz-Jürgen Löw, Head of LCV Renault Group said: “Receiving this award for our new Master is truly special and means a lot for us. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that went into making this possible.” Issued by IVOTY Ltd. Date: 16 September 2024. Contact: Jarlath Sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie