2024 UK Championship winners: Yates seals Trofeo Pirelli title; Rees reigns supreme in Coppa Shell battle

Industry News

Silverstone, Saturday 14 September 2024Gilbert Yates is the new Trofeo Pirelli champion in the Ferrari Challenge UK. The Charles Hurst team driver was mathematically assured of the title thanks to victory in Race 1 at Silverstone in the final round of the season. Mike Dewhirst’s (Dick Lovett Swindon) success keeps the fight in the Coppa Shell open, where Robert Rees still remains in the lead. Qualifying 1. In Trofeo Pirelli, championship leader Gilbert Yates (Charles Hurst) threw down the gauntlet in pursuit of the title, cementing pole with an impressive 2:04.585 best lap time. In Coppa Shell, Mike Dewhirst (Dick Lovett Swindon) once again demonstrated his quality, posting the fastest lap time of 2:07.252 to secure pole position. Trofeo Pirelli. Andrew Morrow (Charles Hurst) placed early pressure on poleman Yates, who worked diligently to consolidate his lead. After 10 minutes, the two Irishmen had built up a significant 10-sec gap ahead of third-placed 2022 Ferrari Challenge UK champion Lucky Khera (Graypaul Birmingham), a position he eventually surrendered in an early retirement. Unchallenged from behind, the showdown for the title commenced. Despite the best attempts of reigning champion Morrow, it was Yates who delivered a consummate drive to cross the line in first place following a race-long battle between the pair. His latest victory secured the 2024 Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli UK championship in what has been an incredible debut season for the Irishman. Coppa Shell. Dewhirst had his work cut out as he started the race from the pit exit following an unscheduled visit to pit lane during the formation lap when the pits were closed. Championship leader Robert Rees (Dick Lovett Swindon) assumed his place at the front of the grid. Undeterred, Dewhirst worked hard to ascend through the order, passing Darren Howell (JCT600 Leeds), Steve Dopson (Dick Lovett Swindon) and Peter Hunter (Stratstone Manchester) in the first 10 minutes of the race to move up into the podium places. Further ahead, returning Coppa Shell driver Stuart Marston (Maranello Sales) quickly rediscovered his form and pressed on, closing the gap to Welshman Rees in the battle for the lead. Further back, Dewhirst sensed an opportunity, laying down his fastest laps of the race to close the gap to the pair. With just minutes remaining, Marston slipped down the inside of an unsuspecting Rees at Stowe to secure the lead, followed by Dewhirst shortly after. As the race drew to a conclusion, it seemed as though Marston would hold on for the win, but an indomitable Dewhirst pushed past on the final lap to clinch first place and secure his fourth win of the season. His comeback victory closes the gap to Coppa Shell championship leader Rees to just 8 points. Silverstone, Sunday 15 September 2024The chequered flag fell on an exhilarating finale to the 2024 Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli UK championship series this weekend at Silverstone. After Gilbert Yates (Charles Hurst) mathematically sealed his championship victory in the Trofeo Pirelli series during Race 1, the stage was set for Dick Lovett duo Mike Dewhirst and Robert Rees to battle it out for the coveted 2024 Coppa Shell title. Qualifying 2. In Trofeo Pirelli, Gilbert Yates continued his fine form to post the fastest lap time of 2:04.418, securing his eighth pole of the season. In Coppa Shell, it was Saturday runner-up Stuart Marston (Maranello Sales) who achieved pole, just 0.3 secs ahead of fellow 2023 returnee Paul Simmerson (Graypaul Birmingham). Trofeo Pirelli. Yates quickly found pace in the early stages of the race, building a narrow one-sec advantage ahead of fellow Irishman Andrew Morrow (Charles Hurst). The race settled, until an incident between Morrow and Haymandhra Pillai (Jardine Colchester) demoted the pair to third and fourth respectively. Their incident handed the advantage to Yates, who by the halfway point led second placed driver Pranav Vangala (HR Owen) by nearly 20-secs. Morrow pushed hard to catch back up to Vangala, laying down serious rubber in an attempt to close the gap. But the HR Owen driver was determined to keep his podium spot and pressed on to consolidate his position in the order. As the race concluded, it was Yates who completed the perfect race weekend sealing his 5th win of the season as Ferrari Challenge UK Trofeo Pirelli champion. Coppa Shell. Robert Rees (Dick Lovett Swindon) delivered a trademark electric start and leapt up the order to secure pole position before the beginning of Farm Curve. Polesitter Simmerson retaliated quickly, passing the Welshman less than a lap later to retake the lead. Further down the order, Mike Dewhirst (Dick Lovett Swindon) quickly charged towards the podium places. Before he had the chance to arrive at Rees’s bumper, the Welshman suffered a spin. His misfortune sent the championship leader to the bottom of the order handing the advantage to title rival Dewhirst. Dewhirst, spurred on by the possibility of championship victory, pushed his Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo to the limit in an attempt to move up the order. Ahead of him sat a determined Marston who refused to concede his position. With just a few laps to go, the pair caught race leader Paul Simmerson and the resulting three-car battle proved advantageous to Dewhirst, who cut past Marston with just a minute remaining to secure second. On the final lap, it looked as though Dewhirst had pulled off an incredible comeback to secure the Coppa Shell championship title in his debut season. But an irrepressible Rees refused to surrender, and in the final throws made a move to pass Peter Hunter (Stratstone Manchester) and rise up into fifth. Rees’s last-lap heroics secured the Welshman enough points to win his first Ferrari Challenge UK Coppa Shell title in an intra-dealer championship battle which has thrilled spectators throughout the season. Next season: The racing calendar for the 2025 Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli UK championship was announced Saturday evening, where drivers will visit four locations in the UK, as well as a new European track for the series. The season finale will…

Renault Estafette Concept: the electric van inspired by cities and the professionals who work in them

Industry News

Estafette Concept encapsulates something about Renault’s vision for its electric utility vehicles moving forward. It is a glimpse into how Flexis – a joint venture by Renault Group, Volvo Group and CMA CGM Group – will rise to the challenges in the energy transition and last-kilometre logistics Estafette Concept is designed for cities. It is a compact yet spacious all-electric van combining Kangoo L2’s length, Clio’s agility and Trafic L1H2’s load capacity It was designed around professional drivers, engineered based on their feedback and geared for their needs. It streamlines operations and enhances safety Estafette Concept is fully connected and leverages the SDV (Software-Defined Vehicle) architecture in the FlexEVan platform developed by Ampere. SDV electronic architectures play an essential role in increasing performance and cost-efficiency in new-generation vehicles. They also integrate advanced features including real-time updates and predictive maintenance. Overall, they help to reduce cost in use by about 30% E-commerce has kick-started exponential growth in freight transport, traffic restrictions in city centres are tightening, and delivery professionals, tradespeople and retailers are realising that their needs will soon outgrow conventional vans. Renault Group is using the new FlexEVan platform that Renault developed with its partners in Flexis to build its vision of the next dream utility vehicle – 65 years after the Estafette revolutionised the van universe. The specs are based on professionals’ requirements and feedback, and the two main goals are keeping drivers and goods safe, and keeping loading and unloading swift. “We are very excited about helping to bring to life the vision that Renault Group and its partners Volvo Group and CMA CGM Group have come up with to revolutionise urban logistics, to make operations more sustainable, safer, city-friendlier, driver-friendlier and neighbour-friendlier. Estafette Concept is the first example of what electric utility vehicles will look like tomorrow: purpose-engineered to drive in cities, compact, connected and built for fully sustainable delivery services.” Philippe Divry, CEO, Flexis SAS The Estafette’s pioneering legacy Estafette Concept has much more in common with Renault’s emblematic 1959 van than the jovial round headlamps. They are both radically innovative and practical. The original Estafette was the very first Renault brand vehicle to fit the entire powertrain – engine and transmission – at the front to free up all the space behind for loading. The new Estafette 4.0 is the first to feature the FlexEVan electric platform, which is poised to upend the utility vehicle landscape. They were both designed to make life easier for delivery drivers, tradespeople and retailers, and are both remarkably compact – ample inside yet easy to park. They both have two sliding doors for unparalleled convenience and safety. And they were both designed for and with professionals. In 1959, Renault launched its Estafette with a France-wide delivery tournament. Estafette Concept will become a production van in two years’ time, so watch this space! Exterior design “Estafette Concept intends to change the way people perceive vans in cities, while applying and adapting the same interior and exterior concept across the line-up. Vans will no longer be anonymous shapes: they will be endearing, expressive and come in eye-catching pop colours.” Sandeep Bhambra, Chief Designer, Advanced Design and Concept Cars, Ampere “Standing-position” proportions Estafette Concept’s footprint (4.87 x 1.92 metres) is in the same league as Kangoo L2’s (4.91 x 1.86 metres). They both fit in a standard parking spot (less than 5 metres long), while being more agile, with a turning circle between kerbs similar to that of a Clio (just over 10 metres). But Estafette Concept is considerably higher (2.59 metres compared with 1.85), so its silhouette is distinctly vertical. The driver, as a result, can effortlessly move back and forth between the cockpit and cargo area. Openings that make life easier The pocket sliding side doors open with one swift motion, so the driver doesn’t have to constantly pull them outwards and backwards then back again. They save a substantial amount of time and are much easier on the driver’s wrist when they make dozens of stops a day. The shutter at the rear rolls around itself, opening up the van’s full height. And it doesn’t have a tailgate or swing-out doors, so you don’t need any clearance space behind (even though a large step unfolds automatically every time you open the shutter). The van can for example reverse all the way up to a dock for easy loading, for a total load capacity close to that of a Trafic L1H2 (7.1 cu. metres). The shutter is used exclusively for loading and the sliding door alongside the pavement is used exclusively for unloading, to keep the driver completely safe. Smooth silhouette The sleek outline – the only prominent feature is the ripple underlining the grille bar – gives Estafette Concept a gentle feel that conceals technology at the height of perfection. Think Smeg fridge meets plush toy. Pop top Cities would look so much more dazzling from above if every delivery van had a pop top! Estafette Concept joins in the fun with a Tropical Yellow roof over a Helium Grey cab, but the two-tone body has another advantage, too: it softens the van’s towering height. Strong statement A commanding grille bar protrudes from the otherwise soft contours on Estafette Concept’s prow, beneath the windscreen base, to draw the eye to the van’s brand. The backlit Renault Nouvel’R logo is distinctly reflected in the new signature LED pattern forming large vertical fragments of the logo at the ends of the bar. The base of the prow has two large headlamps with a 3D look to magnify the techy effect. They are linked by a black strip providing the background for the Renault monogram and housing a built-in camera. The monogram also appears on the sills to make the brand even more prominent. Triptych-shaped windscreen To provide the driver with a panoramic view of the urban surroundings, the gigantic windscreen wraps around the side, connecting to two strikingly ample windows forming a triptych. From the outside, the inconspicuous frame helps to create a high-tech “helmet visor” effect, hinting at the van’s…

Volkswagen and She’s Electric join forces to plug gaps in people’s EV knowhow

Industry News

Live events this autumn give people the chance to drive an electric Volkswagen Full range of electric Volkswagens will be at both venues She’s Electric is a community of switched-on women who harness their growing consumer power to make positive change Relaxed and informal driving experiences combine with entertaining hosts, ethical lifestyle brands and inspiring speakers Milton Keynes – Volkswagen is partnering with innovative start-up organisation She’s Electric at two fun events this autumn to help showcase the benefits of switching to electric cars. She’s Electric is an initiative created by women, to empower women; but it’s also a movement that benefits everyone by helping people to make sustainable and stylish life choices. Entertaining and informative events let attendees get behind the wheel of electric cars and find answers to questions about switching from petrol and diesel – all in an inspiring location with a team of experts on everything from clean energy to confidence and lifestyle brands with an eye on the future. Volkswagen is partnering with She’s Electric at two events this autumn:– Saturday 12 October: Ellenborough Park in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire– Sunday 13 October: Danesfield House in Marlow, Buckinghamshire The events are aimed predominantly at women, but the gates are open to everyone who wants to learn more about electric cars and sustainable lifestyles. Tickets can be booked at https://www.sheselectric.co.uk/events. Volkswagen – which translates from German as ‘the people’s car’ – is on a similar mission to help all motorists to reduce their carbon footprints and understand the various options, benefits and realities of owning an electric vehicle (EV). Research by Auto Trader suggests that women are less comfortable than men when it comes to visiting car dealerships and buying vehicles. Volkswagen is hoping to bridge this gender gap by working with She’s Electric in a relaxed and inclusive environment, giving people a taste of what it’s like to drive an EV and help address any concerns they may have about EV ownership. “Volkswagen is an established and trusted vehicle manufacturer, so we are delighted to be able to lend our expertise and cars to these fabulous She’s Electric events this autumn,” said Sarah Cox-Thornley, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen UK. “Our full range of electric cars will be at both venues for people to see and drive, from the multi-award-winning ID.3 hatchback to the ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs and our flagship ID.7 model; the ID. Buzz will also be there for anyone interested in an EV with retro vibes. “We like to use the phrase ‘same spirit, different energy’ when comparing the electric driving experience with petrol and diesel. We really hope this message comes across at these events for anyone feeling a bit puzzled or apprehensive about going electric, and we can’t wait to see how the She’s Electric audiences react to driving our cars.” (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.uk Twitter: @VWUKPress VW24054 TR/rp

Celebrating 20 years of the BMW PGA Championship

Industry News

2024 BMW PGA Championship marks a significant milestone, as BMW celebrates 20 years as title partner. Revisiting tournament and automotive highlights since 2005. Many charities supported by the tournament, with over £150,000 raised for current partner, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) since 2022. Golf remains a deeply rooted pillar of the BMW brand. The 2024 BMW PGA Championship (17 – 22 September, Wentworth Club, Surrey, England) marks a significant milestone, as BMW celebrates its 20th year as title partner of the DP World Tour’s flagship event. To commemorate this highly successful partnership, we explore some of the highlight moments that have helped to define the last two decades. The championship dates back to 1955, when it was originally known as the British PGA Championship, before coming under BMW’s stewardship in 2005. Since then, the tournament has gone from strength to strength, evolving into a ‘Festival of Golf’ with its star-studded Pro-Am line ups, Championship Village and live concerts from world-renowned artists. The 20th BMW PGA Championship closely follows the 35th BMW International Open, and further cements the brand’s commitment to international golf. Aside from a formidable list of champions, the tournament’s most prominent legacy is arguably its deeply rooted connection to charity, supporting many deserving causes over its 20-year history. Its most recent beneficiary is the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), who strive to change the conversation around mental health and suicide. Since 2022, more than £150,000 has been raised for CALM, who will remain as official charity partner for a third consecutive year. Ahead of the 20th BMW PGA Championship – which is expected to be the most widely attended tournament to date, with Saturday and Sunday tickets already sold out – we explore tournament and automotive highlights from two decades of play. 2006: Two champions are crowned.Teeing off in 2006, the second BMW PGA Championship sees David Howell cruise to victory by five shots, becoming the first homegrown winner since Nick Faldo in 1989. Meanwhile, BMW 3 Series is crowned ‘Car of the Year’ at the prestigious 2006 What Car? Car of the Year Awards. Arriving as the fifth incarnation, the 3 Series was praised by What Car? for its blend of typically ‘sharp’ driving dynamics, outstanding refinement and everyday practicality. 2008: Standing out from the crowd.Golf icon Miguel Ángel Jiménez showcases a stand-out performance, acing the fifth, before beating Oliver Wilson on the second extra hole to take the title. Born to stand out too, the BMW X6 launches as the world’s first ever Sports Activity Coupé, combining the attributes of an SUV with the stance of a coupé for the first time. 2010: Redesigned and reimagined.Nicknamed ‘The Big Easy’, South African golfing legend, Ernie Els oversees the redesign of the West Course, including a major revamp of the 18th hole. Concurrently, a BMW legend is reimagined, as the BMW 5 Series Touring enters its fourth generation, bringing an eight-speed automatic transmission, Auto Start-Stop technology and up to an exceptional 1,670 litres of luggage capacity. 2011 & 2012: Doing the double.With an astonishing performance, England’s Luke Donald beats fellow countryman Lee Westwood at the 2011 championship and takes the top spot as world number one for the first time in his career. Donald went on to defend his title in 2012, becoming only the third player to do so since Colin Montgomerie and Sir Nick Faldo. Also doing the double with more power and less fuel consumption, the fifth generation BMW M5 is launched, boasting 560 hp – up 10 per cent on its predecessor model – while cutting fuel consumption by more than 30 per cent. 2013: Fresh talent.Italy’s Matteo Manassero becomes the tournament’s youngest-ever winner, taking home the trophy at just 20 years of age. Simultaneously, the BMW i3 makes its debut as the first series-produced model by BMW i, offering a fresh all-electric powertrain and groundbreaking new technology. Like Manassero, the trailblazer went on to create a legacy of its own, with over 250,000 units delivered to customers worldwide. 2014: Global stars.Rory McIlroy secures the win after a dramatic final round, overturning a seven-shot overnight deficit to score a 66 on the final day and clinch a thrilling victory. Heralded as his first win on British soil, it kick started a memorable year for the world number one, in which he also won The Open and US PGA Championship. Also launched in 2014, BMW’s first plug-in hybrid sports car, the BMW i8 becomes a star of its own. Honoured as Top Gear Magazine’s ‘Global Car of the Year’ the innovative powerhouse went on to secure almost as many titles as the Northern Irish legend. 2015: Records are made to be broken.Finishing with a record-breaking 21-under-par, South Korean, Byeong-Hun An – a European Tour rookie – claims victory. A remarkable five aces are recorded throughout this tournament, making it a memorable event for such a rare achievement. Offering both record-breaking lap times and remarkable performance, the special edition BMW M4 GTS is unveiled as the fastest series-production BMW road car ever offered to customers. With a boosted output of 500hp, the GTS shaved 30 seconds off the standard BMW M4’s Nürburging Nordschleife lap time. 2019: Big moves.Marking one of the tournament’s most memorable moments, Ross Fisher makes a sensational albatross on the 18th hole by sinking a 218-yard second shot with a 4-iron and wins a BMW i8 for the first albatross of the tournament that week. BMW made some big moves too in 2019, launching its largest production car to date, the BMW X7. Combining a spacious, opulent interior, powerful engine derivatives and advanced technology, the luxury SUV strikes the perfect balance between comfort and performance. 2021: Going full circle.Bringing it back for the USA, Billy Horschel becomes the first American victor since the great Arnold Palmer in 1975. Bringing back and repurposing an array of materials, the BMW i Vision Circular is unveiled to the world at the IAA Motor Show in Munich. Envisioned for the year 2040, the Vision Circular is BMW’s take on…

Renault offers three years’ free servicing on electrified family SUVs during its September Event

Industry News

September Event offers up to three years’ free servicing on Renault Symbioz E-Tech full hybrid, Austral E-Tech full hybrid and Scenic E-Tech 100% electric* Applies to orders placed from September 13th to 23rd using Mobilize Financial Services’ PCP and HP finance packages Competitive finance offers include two-year 0% APR PCP on all models, four-year 4.9% APR representative on Austral E-Tech full hybrid and Scenic E-Tech 100% electric, and four-year 6.9% APR representative on Symbioz E-Tech full hybrid Renault is offering customers three years’ free servicing on selected models from its award-winning range of electrified family-friendly SUVs as part of its September Event. Retail customers placing an order for a new Symbioz E-Tech full hybrid, Austral E-Tech full hybrid or Scenic E-Tech 100% electric between September 13th and 23rd via a four-year or two-year Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) or four-year Hire Purchase (HP) deal will automatically receive a free service plan that covers the cost of all routine servicing for the first three years. The free service plan, worth up to £396, represents a saving of up to £600 when compared to the cost of booking each service annually, and offers customers inflation-proof peace of mind and predictable running costs. Combined with Renault’s competitive finance offers – which include a two-year 0% APR1 PCP on all models in the range, 4.9% APR representative2 on Austral E-Tech full hybrid and Scenic E-Tech 100% electric, and 6.9% APR representative3 on Symbioz E-Tech full hybrid – there’s never been a better time for customers to get behind the wheel of a new 74-plate Renault, while enjoying even lower cost of ownership. The Symbioz E-Tech full hybrid 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 families looking for a level of electrification, while keeping a firm hold on running costs. Weighing in at less than 1,500 kg and equipped with an innovative full hybrid powertrain, Symbioz has emissions from only 105 g/km of CO2 and delivers up to 60.1 mpg. A highly connected and innovative SUV for the modern, electrified world, the Austral E-Tech full hybrid marries its bold, sporty SUV design and efficient drivetrain with an innovative, contoured cockpit and a range of advanced technologies. Powered by a 200hp petrol hybrid powertrain with a 400V 1.7kWh lithium-ion battery, it offers an electric-only mode for quiet and zero emissions driving, while the battery recharges when decelerating and braking to deliver a truly electric experience with no need to plug in. Designed to combine all that a family needs to travel freely and safely with a focus on sustainability, the Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric features a compact motor (with 170hp or 220hp) and a choice of 60kWh or 87kWh battery packs for an all-electric range of up to 379 miles. The long wheelbase ensures an exceptionally spacious cabin yet is lighter and more compact than the average C-segment vehicle. Its pioneering Solarbay opacifying glass roof and ingenious rear armrest – including storage for devices, screen stands and cup holders – create an inviting, comfortable and practical space for families. The September Event runs from Friday 13th to Monday 23rd at Renault retailers.

Innovative, holistic, future-forward: BMW Group Design team implements new organisational structure

Industry News

Adrian van Hooydonk reorganises BMW Group Design, brings in Maximilian Missoni Two BMW Design studios going forward Digital experience and Colour and Material Design enhanced Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market. Munich. The BMW Group is completely reorganising its Design division under the leadership of Adrian van Hooydonk. Like the NEUE KLASSE, which represents the redefinition of the BMW brand with its “electric, digital, circular” philosophy, a new cross-brand design team will be launched on 1 October 2024 to meet changing demands for future-oriented vehicle design. The new organisation, focused on the transformation of the company, will remain the industry benchmark. For example, Colour and Material Design will be consolidated across all brands, while the BMW brand team will be divided into two studios and the future topic of “Advanced Design” strengthened. “Technology and customer preferences are currently changing faster than ever,” says van Hooydonk. “Automotive design has become more diverse. Designing digital experiences and sound also plays an increasingly important role, along with sustainable and recycled materials. The design showcases all the innovative potential of our products and brands,” van Hooydonk continues. “That’s why, more than ever, every single detail matters, as well as the holistic and harmonious integration of the various elements.” Van Hooydonk is bringing Maximilian Missoni into the BMW Group Design team to oversee the design of upper mid-size and luxury class BMW models, as well as BMW Alpina. After holding various managerial positions at Volkswagen and Volvo Cars, Missoni was most recently Head of Design at Polestar. Oliver Heilmer, previously Head of MINI Design, will be responsible for the design of all compact and mid-size BMW models going forward, as well as BMW M. Claudia Braun will head the newly created cross-brand department for Colour and Material Design for BMW, MINI and Royce Motor Cars. She has already been managing colour and materials for the BMW brand since April 2024, bringing experience from Porsche AG, Daimler AG and Volvo Cars. Domagoj Dukec, formerly Head of the BMW Design Studio, will now assume responsibility for Rolls-Royce Design, including Bespoke and Coachbuild. Anders Warming, previously Head of Design Rolls-Royce, will oversee all Advanced Design topics, as well as the BMW Group Designworks subsidiary. Holger Hampf, Head of BMW Group Designworks, will now be in charge of design for the MINI brand. Christian Bauer will continue to lead the digital customer experience into a new era across all brands. Adrian van Hooydonk: “I am delighted to continue driving the design and further development of our vehicles and brands forward, together with a first-class team of highly qualified design professionals.” If you have any questions, please contact:BMW Group Corporate CommunicationsLaura KanamüllerPress spokesperson, BMW DesignTelephone: +49-151-601-51110E-Mail: Laura.Kanamueller@bmw.com Almut StollbergHead of Communications Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital CarTelephone: +49-151-601-96543Email: Almut.Stollberg@bmw.com Media website: www.press.bmwgroup.comEmail: presse@bmw.de The BMW GroupWith its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. In 2023, the BMW Group sold over 2.55 million passenger vehicles and more than 209,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2023 was € 17.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 155.5 billion. As of 31 December 2023, the BMW Group had a workforce of 154,950 employees. The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. www.bmwgroup.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWGroupX: http://twitter.com/BMWGroupYouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWGroupViewInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroupLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to reveal the new Transporter generation on Sunday, 15th September at 18:00 BST

Industry News

Milton Keynes, UK (13 September, 2024) – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to reveal the new Transporter generation at the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover, on Sunday 15th September at 18:00 BST. The world premiere will be livestreamed on Volkswagen’s YouTube channel and is available for all to join at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oD44kchLng For over 70 years, the Transporter has been an icon of efficiency and reliability. Carrying the unmistakable style of its six predecessors, with a clear and striking exterior design, the seventh-generation Transporter brings improvements in every area, offering more space, an increased payload and towing capacity and a professional cockpit landscape. For the first time, the range includes three turbocharged diesel engines (TDI), a plug-in hybrid drive (eHybrid) and three electric drives (e-Transporter and e-Caravelle), providing the right choice of van for everyone. (ends) 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

Lando Norris takes on Silverstone Circuit in a life-size LEGO® Technic™ McLaren P1™

Industry News

The LEGO Group and McLaren Automotive have embarked on the ultimate challenge; creating a life-size, driveable LEGO® Technic™ version of the iconic McLaren P1™ supercar McLaren Formula 1 Team driver Lando Norris puts the one-of-a-kind car to the ultimate test, completing a lap around the iconic Silverstone Circuit, a track holding many memories of historic moments for McLaren The life-size car features an incredible 342,817 LEGO Technic elements and an electric motor; it is the first big build the LEGO Group has ever made, that’s capable of steering and driving an entire lap of a racetrack The 1:8 scale LEGO Technic McLaren P1™ set is now available at www.LEGO.com/McLaren The LEGO Group and McLaren Automotive have embarked on the toughest LEGO Technic challenge to date, recreating a one-of-a-kind, fully drivable McLaren P1™ made from LEGO Technic elements. And if that wasn’t enough, McLaren F1™ driver, Lando Norris has been enlisted for the ultimate challenge, to complete a lap of the iconic British racetrack, Silverstone, in the 1:1 scale LEGO Technic McLaren P1. This life-size replica of the McLaren P1™ is made from 342,817 LEGO Technic elements, weighing approximately 1220kg, with some truly remarkable displays of engineering. The car has fully functional steering, making it the first LEGO big build ever capable of steering and taking on tricky racetrack corners. The build features an electric motor consisting of LEGO Technic Function batteries and an electric car battery, allowing it to travel further than any other LEGO model before it. The big build process came to life with 23 specialists from design, engineering and building from the LEGO group and McLaren Automotive, with 8,344 hours of development and construction and requiring 393 different types of LEGO Technic elements. With the car assembled, all that was left to do was to embark on the ultimate challenge, and with it being a McLaren supercar replica, who better to get behind the wheel than McLaren F1™ Driver, Lando Norris. The British driver was more than up to the task, taking on the twist and turns of the 5.891km (3.66 miles) track and completing the lap around the Silverstone Circuit. With the enormity of this challenge, Silverstone was the perfect setting given McLaren’s rich history with the home of British racing. Fans can see the full video of Lando Norris completing the Ultimate Challenge in the life-size LEGO Technic McLaren P1™ by visiting lego.com/en-gb/themes/technic/mclaren-p1. “Having worked on the original P1 programme for McLaren, it’s amazing to see so many of the elements from the original McLaren P1™ brought to life so realistically by the LEGO Technic team for the full-scale model. The car was an icon of its time. I hope that through this collaboration with the LEGO Group, we are able to inspire the next generation of designers and engineers to push the boundaries of automotive innovation.”Ben Gulliver, Test & Development Director, McLaren Automotive. “This project marks the latest in a long list of collaborations between the LEGO Group and McLaren, bringing together McLaren engineers and the LEGO Model Production team from conception all the way to the final build. “McLaren’s automotive and engineering expertise has been invaluable in helping us produce a model as authentic to the original McLaren P1™ as possible, allowing us to turn a dream into a reality.”Lukáš Horák, Senior Project Manager of Installations, LEGO Group. The LEGO Technic McLaren P1™ 1:8 set is available at www.LEGO.com/McLaren and LEGO Stores priced at £389.99 / €449.99 / $449.99.

Models of the Marque: the 1940s the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn

Industry News

The latest in the ‘Models of the Marque’ series showcases the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn. Launched in 1949, it marked a profound change for Rolls-Royce, reflecting the realities of the post-war market. A brief history of the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, launched in 1949 The first complete motor cars ever produced by Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn models’ design, construction and engineering still influences marque today Fifth in a series celebrating landmark models from the marque’s history Year-long retrospective marks the 120th anniversary of the first meeting between Henry Royce and The Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls in 1904 “For the first 40 years of its existence, Rolls-Royce built only rolling chassis, onto which independent coachbuilders installed bodywork specified by the client. It wasn’t until the late 1940s that the marque produced its first complete motor car – the Silver Dawn. Launched in 1949, it marked a profound change for Rolls-Royce, reflecting the realities of the post-war market while giving the marque more control than it had ever enjoyed over the exterior design of its products. It was also the second model to be built on a single, variable underlying structure, foreshadowing the Architecture of Luxury upon which all Rolls-Royce motor cars of the modern era are built.”Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Although Rolls-Royce suspended motor car production between 1939 and 1945 to focus on building aero engines, design work on a new model continued in the background. During the 1930s, Rolls-Royce offered three models, each of which included numerous parts that were unique to it and could not be shared between them. This significantly increased the manufacturing costs per car, which quickly became unsustainable during the austerity of the post-war years. Rolls-Royce therefore faced the problem of reducing production costs without compromising quality or performance. The solution was new models that could share common parts, a new engine that could be offered in straight-four, six or eight-cylinder variants, and a single chassis that could be configured in variable dimensions. The latter can be seen as a precursor of the proprietary aluminium spaceframe, known as the Architecture of Luxury, that underpins every motor car built at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood today. These ideas came together in a development programme for what would be known as the ‘Rationalised Range’. In 1946, Rolls-Royce launched the first such model: the Silver Wraith. This was a direct replacement for Phantom III, introduced in 1936. Like its predecessor, and indeed all the pre-war models, Silver Wraith was a rolling chassis designed to be fitted with third-party, coach-built bodywork. Rolls-Royce knew that to be commercially successful in these more challenging times, it needed a model that was less expensive and could be produced in greater numbers than was possible with traditional coachbuilding. So, for the first time in its history, Rolls-Royce decided to produce a complete motor car, with coachwork assembled in-house. In the same way that Silver Wraith replaced Phantom III, this new model would assume the mantle of the small-horsepower cars the marque had built in previous decades. The second model in the ‘Rationalised Range’, the Silver Dawn, was launched in 1949, initially only as an export car mainly for the North American and Australian markets; it became available to UK clients in 1952. Of the 761 Silver Dawns produced, most were supplied with the ‘Standard Steel’ four-door saloon bodies produced in-house. But in deference to clients’ requirements, Rolls-Royce also offered the Silver Dawn as a rolling chassis, with some 64 coach-built examples completed in a production run that lasted until 1955. As further proof of the Rationalised Range approach, by 1952, clients could specify both the smaller, complete Silver Dawn and larger Silver Wraith rolling chassis with automatic gear selection. Indeed, Silver Dawn would be among the very last Rolls-Royce models to be offered with a manual transmission. It would be more than half a century before the advent of the satellite-aided, eight-speed ZF automatic transmission fitted to all of today’s V12 Rolls-Royce motor cars – but the die had been cast. Towards the end of its lifespan, Silver Dawn’s rear section was reworked by the then newly hired John Blatchley, who had learned his craft with renowned London coachbuilder Gurney Nutting before joining Rolls-Royce. His deft eye for detail not only allowed for greater luggage capacity, but also enhanced the motor car’s looks considerably; perhaps not surprisingly, he would go on to become the marque’s Chief Styling Engineer. In 2015, the nameplate was revived with Dawn, which was the best-selling drophead in Rolls-Royce’s history by the time production ended in 2023. The ‘youngest’ Silver Dawn is now almost 70 years old. Yet even now, it offers an exhilarating experience for the driver and a restful ride for passengers over long distances in modern traffic conditions. It was and is, in every sense, entirely a Rolls-Royce.

Top industry leaders register for London EV Show 2024: claim your spot today

Industry News

London, September 12: The fourth edition of the London EV Show is generating an overwhelming response from global leaders in electric mobility, with top-tier companies lining up to exhibit their latest technology, groundbreaking innovations, and new models at Excel London from November 26-28. So far, the current edition has secured registration of more than 100 exhibitors. Some of the industry titans who have registered as Platinum Sponsors for the show include Autel Europe UK Limited, known for their automotive intelligent diagnostic, inspection, and analysis products; Ekoenergetyka, an innovative leader in high-power charging infrastructure; Lotus Flash Charge, a key player in luxury EV charging and hyper charging networks; and Power Electronics, the world’s leading manufacturer of solar inverters and a major player in DC charging solutions. Gold Sponsors for #LEVS24 include names like XPEL, a provider of protective films and coatings; Alpitronic, specializing in power electronics devices and testing solutions for e-mobility; Star Charge, offering smart energy turnkey solutions; Lucy, representing companies within the Lucy Group including Lucy Electric and Lucy Zodion; and Vestel, contributing to the future of transportation with automotive electronics and EV chargers. Among the Silver Sponsors for the show are names like INFYPOWER, a high-tech renewable energy company focused on power electronics; Sichuan Injet New Energy Co., Ltd., a professional industrial power supply manufacturer; Metergram, experts in digital infrastructure for EV charging; NAL, a supplier of innovative infrastructure products; Tofco, with extensive experience in the highways industry; LCTC, a leading EV charger manufacturer; SUYIN, offering advanced connector solutions for EV charging systems; TOPBAND, specializing in intelligent control system solutions; Elywhere, providing sustainable energy solutions from Norway; and Ev-Pay, delivering innovative payment solutions for EV charging. #LEVS24 Bronze Sponsors include names like Bender, a provider of smart and safe electrical solutions for eMobility; EN Plus EV Charging, a leading Chinese EV charge point export manufacturer; Proteus Switchgear, a UK manufacturer of low voltage distribution units for EV charging; Payter, a fintech offering ad-hoc payment solutions for the EV charging market; SMK Electronics (Europe) Ltd, specializing in smart mobility components; Elbagate, Europe’s largest busbar manufacturer; Verve Connect, offering synchronized management of EV charging solutions across regions; Suntree, a high-tech enterprise integrating research, production, and service in EV infrastructure; BSI; ICEE, specializing in EV infrastructure enclosures; HELLONEXT, a leader in sustainable energy solutions including EV charging and hydrogen; TVR Instruments Ltd, providing earth leakage relays for EV charging stations; Solutions30, offering EVC infrastructure solutions across Europe; Pelican Engineering, a leading supplier of EV chargers and energy storage systems; ATEQ, a manufacturer of pressure decay and flow test instruments; Lewden, recognized for smart electrical power distribution solutions; TSG UK Solutions, providing turnkey solutions for the EV charging market; Dold Industries, offering network monitoring solutions; Solidstudio, experts in digital solutions for EV charging; PLP, creators of precision-engineered solutions for energy and communications; Energy Networks Association, representing major electricity network operators in the UK and Ireland; Leap24, focusing on fast-charging solutions for electric commercial vehicles; and Borough Smart. Check the link for the entire list of exhibitors. Interested in exclusive 1-2-1 meetings with C-level executives from our top sponsors and exhibitors? Join our Mobility Business Connect program. Contact us at press@valiantandcompany.com to secure your spot. Keen to showcase your unique ev-products to a global audience, Book Your Stand.