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

Aston Martin backed sustainable aluminium project awarded £6million of UK Government funding

Industry News

Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) funding to supplement the research and development of 100% recycled aluminium castings, for future Aston Martin models 17 September 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin’s ambition to continually improve the sustainability of its supply chain has been boosted by the award of £6million of UK Government funding for an innovative project supporting the development of lightweight, sustainable aluminium castings for Aston Martin vehicles of the future. Awarded through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) following a competitive process, the government grant will support Project PIVOT, a collaborative five-partner research and development project led by Coventry-based aluminium supplier Sarginsons. Supported by Aston Martin, the project seeks to revolutionise the global casting industry through overhauling the design, weight, carbon emissions and production of cast aluminium, allowing the adoption of 100% recycled content. Today’s funding announcement is another positive step in Aston Martin’s sustainability strategy ‘Racing. Green.’ which incorporates efforts to improve the environmental impact of the company’s supply chain. In August, Aston Martin formally joined Drive Sustainability, a partnership of 16 automotive manufacturers working together to improve the social, ethical, and environmental performance of automotive supply chains, facilitated by CSR Europe. Roberto Fedeli, Group Chief Technology Officer of Aston Martin, said: “The award of funding from the APC is a major boost to Project PIVOT, which seeks to leverage advanced metal solidification and digital-twin simulations to manufacture low-carbon alloys which will ultimately uplift the level of recycled content we feature in Aston Martin models. We look forward to progressing this project collaboratively with Sarginsons and our other research partners. We thank the APC for their incredible support, following on from their backing of our electrification programme last year.” Ian Constance, APC Chief Executive, said: “These collaborative projects will further advance the UK’s excellence in automotive production. From sustainable materials to advanced electronics, and smart software systems, it’s important we continue to demonstrate that the automotive sector is vital to the country’s net-zero goals and that it is a highly investable opportunity.” Aston Martin is developing alternatives to the Internal Combustion Engine as part of its blended powertrain approach that will see the introduction of plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles, the first of which, Valhalla, is targeted to enter full production later this year before commencing delivery in 2025.

Building great cars and great people: Nissan’s new Production Director is made in Sunderland!

Industry News

Nissan Sunderland is renowned for building great cars, but the new Production Director at the plant is proof that Wearside builds great people too. Lee Watson was born just a few miles from the plant and has lived his whole life in the region. He said: “Like many people, I can remember when Nissan first came to Sunderland. “One of my earliest memories is of my dad taking my uncle for an interview before the plant was even built. He got the job and only retired a few years ago after 30 years of service.” Lee attended Farringdon Comprehensive and then Sunderland College. He started his Nissan career in 1999, taking up a position in the manufacturing team in Unit shop, building engines, before moving onto Trim and Chassis two years later building Primera on the plant’s Line One. Since then, Lee, has risen through the ranks, working on cars such as the 100% electric Nissan LEAF and record-breaking Nissan Qashqai. In his new role he will lead the plant’s full production team of more than 3,000. Lee said: “I’m incredibly proud to be taking over as Production Director. Both my grandads were shipbuilders, so it’s great to be carrying on the manufacturing tradition. “Things are a little different today with the cutting-edge tech that goes into our brilliant cars, but the team spirit, skill and workmanship are as strong as ever.” And he’s in good company at the plant, with 13 of the plant’s senior leadership team having started their careers at Nissan and worked up. Lee added: “It’s proof that at Nissan if you work hard, learn and put the team first there are opportunities to progress.” It’s an exciting time at Nissan Sunderland, with new Juke and new Qashqai both going into production in 2024. And the plant is pushing forward its EV36Zero project, which combines EV and battery manufacturing with renewables and a goal of zero emissions driving as well as zero emissions manufacturing. Lee said: “Sunderland is at the heart of Nissan’s drive to a sustainable future. I’m looking forward to the challenges and exciting change that will bring.”

Breaking point: unexpected bill of £772 enough to make Brits want to replace car

Industry News

CarGurus reveals top three factors that push drivers to the “breaking point” with their existing cars 10-day wait for repairs and fewer than three faults are enough to make drivers reach “breaking point” to find a new car Drivers are willing to spend an average of £14,320 on a new car: 1,752% more than the £772 breaking point to maintain a current vehicle 50% of motorists have made unexpected trips to the garage in the past year; 40% are putting off repairs because of cost Nearly three-quarters of motorists are stressed by the prospect of unexpected repairs CarGurus has listed the best used car buys for drivers who have reached their “breaking point” An unexpected car repair bill of £772 is the “breaking point” for drivers to part ways with their current vehicle, according to a newly released report. CarGurus – a leading automotive marketplace in the U.K. to shop, buy, and sell used vehicles – commissioned a survey of 1,000 U.K. drivers that own cars without a warranty. It revealed the unexpected problems that would be enough to make Brits consider buying a replacement car, rather than repair their current vehicle. Drivers are willing to tolerate fewer than three faults and spend an average of £772 over the next 12 months on unexpected repairs. In addition, on average, they’re only willing to wait a maximum of 10 days for an unplanned repair to be carried out. Should the “breaking point” be reached, owners would spend an average of £14,320 on a new car – £13,548 (1,752%) more than they would spend to fix unexpected issues to keep their current car in good order. This data comes during a time when the average age of vehicles on U.K. roads is now up to nine years, a full year increase compared to 2019i. Reliability (57%) and costs (45%) are the top reasons today’s drivers say they would want to replace their old car, reinforcing the “breaking point” factors. Other reasons include safety concerns (20%), being able to afford a better car (20%), and the size being unsuitable (12%). Survey data showed that 50% of U.K. car owners have made unexpected trips to the garage in the past 12 months. Outside of scheduled servicing and M.O.T.s, U.K. drivers spend an average of £269 per year on unplanned repairs according to the CarGurus survey. This is on top of £427 spent on average per year on planned maintenance such as servicing and M.O.T.s. 40% of respondents said they are putting off repairs because of the cost, and cars are being driven with issues such as dashboard warning lights, smoking exhausts, rattling engines, worn tyres, and rust. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of drivers surveyed said they are stressed by the prospect of unplanned car repairs and 90% rely upon a garage to carry out repairs for them. The CarGurus study also outlined car brands that British drivers perceive to be the most reliable and therefore the least likely to reach a “breaking point”: 1. Toyota2. Volkswagen 3. Ford4. Honda5. Volvo6. BMW7. Audi8. Mercedes 9. Nissan10. Hyundai Chris Knapman, Editorial Director at CarGurus U.K., said: “There is always the potential for the occasional unexpected car expense, yet as drivers are holding onto their cars for longer, our study shows that the tolerance of unforeseen issues is very low. For those who have reached breaking point, upgrading to a car with a long manufacturer-backed warranty can make a lot of sense, and is perfectly possible within the average budget of £14,320 that owners are willing to spend. “To help guide consumers, CarGurus experts have identified the longest manufacturer-backed car warranties in the U.K. We have also selected a range of vehicles from those brands to meet different needs, from a city car to a seven-seater, and everything in between. As ever, detail is everything, so be sure to read our guide to find out what is and isn’t included in each manufacturer’s warranty, and what conditions must be met to qualify.” Bye-Bye Breaking Point: Peace-of-Mind Motors for under £14,320 Best city car: Suzuki Ignis Why: Stylish, cheap to run, seats four people comfortably, well equipped What you can get: 2022 model with 10,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Up to seven years and 100,000 miles if serviced with Suzuki Potential remaining warranty: Five years, 90,000 miles Best runaround: Hyundai i20 Why: Affordable to buy, cheap to run, easy to drive What you can get: 2023 model with 12,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Five years, unlimited mileage Potential remaining warranty: Four years, unlimited mileage Best for families: Toyota Rav 4 (last generation) Why: Spacious and solid all-rounder with Toyota’s superb reliability record What you can get: 2017 model with 40,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Up to 10 years and 100,000 miles if serviced with Toyota Potential remaining warranty: Three years, 60,000 miles Best for large families: Kia Carens Why: One of the only seven seaters available for the budget What you can get: 2018 model with 40,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Seven years, 100,000 miles Potential remaining warranty: One year, 60,000 miles Best for fun: Suzuki Swift Sport Why: Hot hatch performance with big-car features and tiny running costs What you get: 2021 model with 12,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Up to seven years and 100,000 miles if serviced with Suzuki Potential remaining warranty: Four years, 88,000 miles Best electric car: MG5 EV Why: It might not look terribly exciting, but the MG5 EV represents a great value choice to get into electric motoring, with a range of over 200 miles and enough room for the family What you can get: 2021 model with 5,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Seven years and 80,000 miles Potential remaining warranty: Four years, 95,000 miles Best for luxury: Lexus IS Why: The IS combines style and quality with hybrid power for great efficiency What you can get: 2018 IS 300h model with 65,000 miles Maximum warranty from first registration: Up…

Renault Master wins 2025 Van of the Year

Industry News

New Renault Master wins the title of Van of the Year 2025, awarded by the “International Van Of The Year” (IVOTY) jury Its Aerovan design and new multi-energy platform make it the new standard on the market, and the most efficient vehicle in its class, across the ICE, electric and hydrogen line-up Master is Renault’s fifth van to win the award, which comes in addition to the “Car of the Year” title won by Scenic E-Tech 100% electric in February Renault Master received its award at the 2025 International Van Of The Year (IVOTY) ceremony during IAA Transportation in Hanover on 16 September. It was elected unanimously by a panel of experts representing 25 European countries. “The IVOTY jury were impressed with the completely new design and high levels of innovation and technology developed for the new Master, 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. Congratulations to Renault Light Commercials on this well-deserved achievement.” Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman, International Van of the Year Award jury“This is a wonderful reward and a true tribute to all the teams who worked on this project.New Master is a perfect example of what has made Renault’s light commercial vehicles amazing for more than 120 years: they are innovative, disruptive, multi-energy and designed to be customised in practically endless ways to meet each of our professional customers’ individual wants and needs.” Heinz-Jürgen Löw, SVP, Renault Brand, Light Commercial VehiclesNew Renault Master is the fifth of the brand’s vans to win this prominent title, following Renault Master II (IVOTY 1998), Renault Trafic II (IVOTY 2002), Kangoo Z.E (IVOTY 2012) and Kangoo Van III (IVOTY 2022). Following on from Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric, voted Car of the Year last February, Renault now scores a double with “Car of the Year” and “Van of the Year” titles. The last time the brand won back-to-back awards was 27 years ago with Renault Scenic I and Master II. You don’t change a winning team!

2025 model year updates for the Radical SR3 XXR and SR10 XXR

Industry News

Safety, reliability, performance and personalisation are the key themes from Radical HQ Upgrades for the 2025 model year see the SR10 XXR benefit from significant updates while the SR3 XXR is further refined All updates can be retrofitted to allow existing XXR customers to remain competitive, while some upgrades are being made available to earlier versions of SR3 and SR10 Donington Park, UK (17th September 2024) – Radical has engineered a number of upgrades for its model year 25 (MY25) race cars. This includes several new features and options for the SR XXR model range, allowing customers the opportunity to secure their 2025 season race car at 2024 pricing. Unveiled in a bespoke Daytona Green hue, with complementing green details to further underline its customisation abilities, this latest one-of-one Radical SR10 XXR will not go unnoticed in the paddock. The team at the Cambridgeshire, UK factory has ticked every box on the options list to highlight the new MY25 upgrades, which focus on key themes of safety, reliability, performance and personalisation. SafetyPutting safety first, new seating options have been launched for both SR3 XXR and SR10 XXR. An all-new carbon single seat has been designed in-house by the Radical research and development team in response to customer feedback. This was primarily driven by a demand in the USA where this specification is popular, and sees the new seat feature an integrated wrap-around headrest and made of pre-impregnated carbon fibre, resulting in a seat that is both stronger and lighter than its GRP predecessor. The carbon single seat is available on left-hand drive, right-hand drive and centre-hand drive configurations. For drivers who prefer the twin seat option, to enable in-car driver coaching or exhilarating passenger rides, occupant safety has been further enhanced by the addition of strategically placed Kevlar inserts and stronger seat mounts and bracketry. For all seating options, new and improved harnesses have improved driver comfort while adding further personalisation options with the introduction of four different colour choices. ReliabilityResponding to customer feedback, the Radical Motorsport team is continuously looking to improve the reliability of an already proven formula, using advanced computer modelling to verify areas of potential weakness, and then testing modifications in both virtual and real-world environments prior to deployment. For example, a redesigned bellhousing on the SR10 XXR was based on simulated stress tests and now significantly reduces the chance of cracking. Similarly, by reverse engineering the carbon fibre front splitter, the latest version has adopted new production techniques and aerospace-grade epoxy resin, to create a component that is both more durable and offers a better fitment than the outgoing version. PerformanceIn a world where milliseconds matter on the track, Radical Motorsport has applied its vast engineering knowledge of aerodynamics to shave more milliseconds off lap times by simply altering the radius of the SR10 XXR sidepods. The result may only be a 2.5 per cent shift in balance towards the front axle but when travelling at 160 mph (258 kph) this is amplified to 11.5 per cent more frontal load, which translates to a crucial reduction in understeer and tyre scrub in high-speed corners. Likewise, by changing the ratio on the steering rack from 1:43:1 to 1:71:1 there’s less effort required by the driver, reducing fatigue and increasing both comfort and enjoyment. A new lightweight flywheel and clutch will also benefit SR10 XXR owners, providing quicker blip response and smoother downshifts, which in turn reduces rear axle shift-locking and shortens brake zone duration. PersonalisationRadical offers a number of personalisation options that do not impact the performance of the car but allow them to stand out in the paddock and bring a customer’s dream to reality. In addition to the custom bodywork colours, lightweight Braid wheels can be painted to compliment the body colour. Inside, the driver can now select from a number of different colour harnesses. Additional customisation options include a custom designed livery which can be applied at the factory. Once complete, and quality inspected, the finished car is taken for a photoshoot before being shipped to its final destination, which could be one of 20+ countries via a 30+ strong Radical dealer network. 2025 readyThese MY25 updates further enhance the ownership experience of the world’s best-selling purpose-built race cars. SR3 XXR and SR10 XXR share multiple common updates, along with model-specific features responding to worldwide customer feedback. The release of these models well in advance of the 2025 season gives customers the confidence to upgrade to the latest specification in preparation for next year, as well as take advantage of 2024 pricing. Visit www.radicalmotorsport.com for more information.

BYD and Shell celebrate partnership by offering one lucky winner a free BYD DOLPHIN and a Shell Recharge card

Industry News

BYD and Shell campaign provides the chance to win a BYD DOLPHIN and a Shell Recharge card, with a discount of £0.15/kWh at any Shell Recharge rapid charging point Chances to win a range of prizes such as a weekend with a BYD DOLPHIN, JBL wireless speakers or Tile Mate key trackers To take part, simply visit www.bydshellrecharge.co.uk and book a test drive in any BYD model, including ATTO 3, DOLPHIN and SEAL BYD and Shell have been partners since March 2023, working to make electric motoring even more accessible in the UK BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and power batteries, and Shell are giving one lucky winner the chance to bag an all-electric BYD DOLPHIN, with accompanying Shell Recharge card. The campaign – which runs from 1st September until 19th November – allows entrants to win from a range of exclusive prizes simply by booking a test drive in any BYD model. Prizes include a BYD DOLPHIN; a BYD DOLPHIN for a weekend; JBL wireless speakers; and Tile Mate key trackers. To enter, simply visit www.bydshellrecharge.co.uk. The BYD DOLPHIN hatchback combines distinctive ‘playful’ design aesthetics with versatility, agility and an abundance of standard equipment, together with BYD’s game-changing EV technology. The epitome of safe, efficient and practical eco-friendly motoring, the BYD DOLPHIN is appealingly priced making high-tech electric mobility accessible to more consumers. Test drives will take place at any of BYD’s 42 retailers across the UK; customers can find their nearest store online: https://www.byd.com/uk/find-store BYD and Shell began a partnership in March 2023 to make electric motoring accessible for all. New BYD customers will receive a free Shell Recharge card, giving access to 700,000 Shell Recharge charging points across Europe and 8,000 Ubitricity-operated charging points in the UK– usually fitted to lampposts on residential city streets. BYD customers also benefit from a discount of £0.15p/kWh across the vast Shell Recharge rapid and ultra-rapid charging network.

BYD ETH8 delivering on emissions-free transportation

Industry News

BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles and power batteries, presents exceptional innovation in electric truck technology at IAA 2024. BYD brings the pure-electric ETH8 eTruck; a zero-emission solution for a range of transportation applications to Europe. The 19T BYD ETH8 merges advanced technology with versatility and practicality. Its multipurpose chassis makes it the perfect choice for logistics and sanitation operations, and can be tailored to suit many other transport requirements. It is built on BYD’s highly integrated e-Truck Platform that has been developed in-house exclusively for electric trucks for the ultimate in safety, performance and efficiency. ETH8 characterises European design BYD’s iconic X front face and diving waistline are distinctive design features of the ETH8. It has been designed for the European market, by the highly regarded vehicle designer, Wolfgang Egger, Design Director for BYD. The ETH8, with its dynamic contours, has strong aesthetic appeal, punctuated by expressive Angel Eyes low-energy headlights for excellent visibility. Spacious and comfortable spaceThe spacious cabin complements the exterior character, creating a plush driver cockpit that has been ergonomically designed for comfort and operational convenience, with a high-tech interior being the core theme. The controls and large 10.1inch display screen are positioned to surround the driver ensuring easy reach and clear visibility of instrumentation. There are also multiple storage options and a sleeping compartment, providing comfort for longer journeys. Revolutionary eTruck Platform BYD is the only NEV producer to have developed its own powertrain systems, power batteries, automotive semiconductors, motors and motor controller systems. The ETH8 benefits from the deeply integrated BYD eTruck platform, incorporating revolutionary technology. This includes an innovative 5-in-1 controller for optimum performance and efficiency. Using just one module makes maintenance much easier, reducing down-time and costs. Innovation extends to the e-Axle, combining the axle with a two speed gearbox and the battery increasing energy efficiency by more than 90% to the powertrain, with the added benefit of regenerative braking. Incorporating a gearbox gives better control of energy demand from the battery pack, with a specially designed powertrain that differentiates BYD from others. Safety is also enhanced with the Iron-Phosphate battery developed on the back of BYD’s 29 years’ experience in developing and producing power batteries. (LFP) as a cathode material offers a higher level of safety and stability compared with conventional lithium-ion batteries, and 100% cobalt-free, is also an environmentally friendly choice. The BYD eTruck Platform also comprises a body controller system and Smart Pad touchscreen providing real-time vehicle status information. Versatile multipurpose chassis with exceptional manoeuvrability The agile BYD ETH8 breaks the mould in stereotypical design, with excellent handling and manoeuvrability for exceptional pure-electric driving experiences, while being quiet too. The multipurpose chassis makes the BYD ETH8 a versatile choice for different operations, from city distribution to sanitation, with two wheelbase options for specific needs. The four-speed gearbox is perfectly suited for electric trucks, providing the right amount of performance for the best efficiencies, using only moderate power consumption. Equipment to make life easierStandard on-board equipment for the BYD ETH8 includes a tachometer; a multi-function steering wheel, an 8-inch info screen, a large 10.1inch hover LCD touchpad screen, electrohydraulic power steering, economy power driving mode option. Range & chargingThe large battery capacity means the vehicle can be charged from 20% to 100% within 2 hours, with a range of 250km. Various charging solutions can be deployed for maximum convenience. 19T ETH8 eTruck Technical Specification Overall Dimension (L/W/H) mm 7,930/2,540/3,280 10,270/2,540/3,280 Kerb Weight kg 8,050 8,250 G.V.W. kg 19,000 19,000 Payload kg 10,950 10,750 Wheelbase mm 4,500 5,700 Front/Rear Overhang mm 1,600/1,830 1,600/2,970 Max. Speed Km/h 90 90 Max. Gradeability % 30 30 Range* km Up to 250 Up to 250 Driving Mode 4×2 4×2 Tyres 295/80 R22.5 295/80 R22.5 Max. Motor Power kW 180 180 Max. Torque N.m 450 450 Battery Type LiFePO4 LiFePO4 Battery Capacity** kWh 255 255 Charging Power kW DC 120 DC 120 Charging Time h DC 2 (SOC 20%~100%) DC 2 (SOC 20%~100%) *Actual range will vary depending upon driving/charging habits, speed, conditions, weather, temperature and battery lifecycle etc.**The battery capacity is initial capacity. It will decrease with the time and use. #### About BYDBYD is a multinational high-tech company devoted to leveraging technological innovations for a better life. Founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker, BYD now boasts a diverse business scope covering automobiles, rail transit, new energy, and electronics, with over 30 industrial parks in China, the United States, Canada, Japan, Thailand, Brazil, Hungary, Uzbekistan, and India. From energy generation and storage to its applications, BYD is dedicated to providing zero-emission energy solutions that reduce global reliance on fossil fuels. Its new energy vehicle footprint now covers 6 continents, over 90 countries and regions. Listed in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, the company is known to be a Fortune Global 500 enterprise that furnishes innovations in pursuit of a greener world. About BYD EuropeBYD Europe is headquartered in the Netherlands and is the first overseas branch of BYD Group, with a commitment to deliver safe and efficient sustainable solutions in new energy vehicles through world-leading technological innovations. For more information, please visit www.byd.com. Contact: Europe: Penny Peng, PressEU@byd.com tel: +31-102070888

IAA Transportation 2024: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is launching a host of new models in Hanover

Industry News

World premiere of the new Transporter: seventh generation revealed on 15 September. New factory-fit shelving system for trade, courier and transport services ID. Buzz range expanded: new entry-level version for 49,998 euros1/2, new GTX flagship version with 250 kW3 and long-range model4 with 86 kWh battery5 Digital fleet environment for corporate clients: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers an extensive portfolio of products for efficient fleet management New VW Connect services: more charging services, IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT, plus Spotify for the infotainment system and Volkswagen app New Multivan eHybrid 4MOTION6 and new California: all-round bus and camper van both get the brand’s first plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive Crafter has been significantly enhanced: major update with new cockpit design, new infotainment systems and new assist systems New Caddy versions: trade fair premiere of the Caddy eHybrid (plug-in hybrid)7/8 and the new Cargo version Caddy Flexible with variable rear bench seat Hanover (16 September, 2024) – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be exhibiting a wide range of new models at the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hanover. The Bulli, in particular, will be in the spotlight at the world’s largest trade fair for commercial vehicles (17-22 September) – the completely redeveloped Transporter celebrated its world premiere on 15 September. The new ID. Buzz Pro with a long wheelbase has a larger 86 kW battery, offering superior range. This new battery also supplies the extended version of the dynamic ID. Buzz GTX. With the ID. Buzz Pure2 and ID. Buzz Freestyle2, two new entry-level variants enhance the range; they are equipped with a new 59 kWh5 battery. Also new is the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the iconic electric commercial vehicle: the ID. Buzz Cargo 4MOTION. In addition, the Multivan eHybrid 4MOTION is celebrating its premiere with a plug-in hybrid AWD. The new California, which is based on the Multivan, the enhanced Crafter, in a wide range of versions, and the new Caddy eHybrid and new Caddy Flexible equipment package will also be present in Hanover. The trade fair appearance will be rounded off by innovative solutions from second stage manufacturers. Volkswagen Group Charging – Elli – will present the innovative integration of its charging services into the Connect Pro fleet tool developed by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles at the IAA. New Transporter – the world premiere: The IAA highlight from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is the world premiere of the seventh-generation Transporter on the eve of the trade fair. All information on the new Transporter, which launches as a panel van, Kombi and double cab model with platform body, as well as in a Caravelle version, will be available from 16 September. New shelving system – from the factory: The new Transporter will once again be available with numerous industry solutions from second stage manufacturers. One such solution is the new shelving system developed by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in partnership with Sortimo. It will be shown for the first time at the IAA. The basic system elements can be ordered directly from the factory, with the new Transporter, through Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Customers can order individual equipment for the shelving, which can be installed on both side walls, from Sortimo. These modules are then simply clicked into place without time-consuming assembly. The shelving system has been designed for three commercial areas: trade or service companies and mobile workshops with extensive tools, courier services, and food transport and retail. The Columbus shelving system will be available to order for the new Transporter directly from its market launch in the first quarter of 2025. The Caddy, the ID. Buzz Cargo and the Crafter will also receive the optional shelving system. The new shelving system is a world first, offered exclusively for models from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. New ID. Buzz range expanded: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has expanded the ID. Buzz model range both downwards and upwards. In addition to the 210 kW (286 PS) ID. Buzz Pro models with normal wheelbase (NWB)9 and 79 kWh battery, a long-wheelbase (LWB) 7-seat version of the 210 kW ID. Buzz including a large 86 kWh battery and up to 487km of range was recently introduced, along with two 250 kW (340 PS) ID. Buzz GTX models with all-wheel drive (NWB: 79 kWh, up to 423 km range, LWB: 86 kWh, up to 475 km range). The 250 kW ID. Buzz Cargo 4MOTION is available for the first time with all-wheel drive instead of rear-wheel drive (always NWB, 79 kWh, up to 432 km range). All-wheel drive increases the towing capacity of the ID. Buzz models from 1,200 kg to up to 1,800 kg (braked, 12 per cent gradient). In future, the ID. Buzz Pure, ID. Buzz Freestyle and the ID. Buzz Pure Cargo with 125 kW (170 PS) and 59 kW battery will round off the range at the lower end1. The new ID. Buzz Cargo Pure is available in Germany from 42,710 euros (net)1. At the IAA, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will also be exhibiting an ID. Buzz Cargo as a refrigerated vehicle from the German second stage manufacturer Wükaro, innovatively combining the electric drive system and an electric cooling system. Connect Pro & Fleet Interface – comprehensive eco-system for corporate clients: With Connect Pro & Fleet Interface, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be showcasing its digital fleet environment at the IAA. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ eco-system for fleet customers is inspired by a wide range of customer needs, enabling the brand to offer a comprehensive digital solution. With Connect Pro, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a comprehensive dedicated portal for managing vehicle fleets. Flexible and user-friendly, the portal can be accessed from a laptop, tablet or smartphone. It provides commercial clients with a smart, central tool for managing their fleets and, with its highlight services, goes above and beyond conventional fleet management. With a notification function for vehicle maintenance, and the automatic appointment requests to preferred repairers, fleet efficiency is increased and downtime is reduced. Software updates can be activated centrally over-the-air to ensure that vehicles are always up to date. VW Connect services…

Fourth-generation Continental GT production begins on founder’s birthday

Industry News

First main production fourth-generation Continental GT handcrafted in time for W.O. Bentley’s birthday at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe Specified in launch colour of Tourmaline Green matching the unofficial ‘Underwater Speed Record’ car Fourth-generation Continental GT Speed is the most powerful road going Bentley ever created First car to join UK Press Fleet before being retained by Bentley’s Heritage Collection forever (Crewe, 16 September 2024) Bentley Motors is proud to announce that the first fourth-generation Continental GT has completed production, in time for the 136th birthday of Walter Owen Bentley. With the same specification as the car that featured in the unofficial ‘Underwater Speed Record’ and launch film, the first new Continental GT is finished in Tourmaline Green, with a Gravity Grey and Mandarin interior. The car will begin its life as a UK Press Fleet car, before joining Bentley’s Heritage Collection where it will be retained forever. The car will be followed off the production line by the first customer cars, each one specified in one of the 46 billion configurations possible through Bentley’s standard options list. Speaking on the start of production, Andreas Lehe, Bentley’s Member of the Board for Manufacturing, comments: “The fourth-generation Continental GT is a true masterpiece. The vivid launch colour of Tourmaline Green is a modern interpretation of the notable Bentley Green, designed and painted by our in-house craftspeople. The vehicle completed a staggering 92 assembly stations throughout the Production process and we’ve also pushed the boundaries of our interior vehicle design, with three-dimensional leather textures, modern quilting, and dark chrome finishes. Our artisans in Crewe have truly outdone themselves, ensuring every detail exudes luxury.” The Continental GT Speed redefines the ultimate blend of supercar performance, handcrafted luxury and everyday usability. The new model displays a comprehensive exterior and interior redesign, with clean modern detailing, recently established by the new DNA showcased by the coachbuilt Bentley Bacalar and Batur. Outstanding performance is brought by an all-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain with 782 PS and 1,000 Nm, from a 4.0-litre V8 working in tandem with a 190 PS electric motor. 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds is the result, with the benefit of 50 miles (81 km) of usable electric-only range (on the EU drive cycle) and a total range of 534 miles (859 km) – creating an everyday supercar. This particular car will be destined at a later point to join Bentley’s Heritage Collection. Now consisting of 45 cars from the oldest Bentley in the world (the 1919 3-Litre EXP2) through to the latest generation Continental GT (from 2024), with some of the most extraordinary Bentleys ever made representing every decade of the company’s 105-year history.