F1® car for the road delivered to F1® driver, Fernando Alonso

Industry News

Aston Martin’s Aramco Formula 1® Team driver, Fernando Alonso, takes delivery of his new Aston Martin Valkyrie in Monaco A true F1® car for the road now piloted by two-time FIA Formula One® World Champion Sensational bespoke specification designed by Fernando Alonso in partnership with Q by Aston Martin Era defining hypercar incorporates concepts and technologies taken directly from Formula One® Aston Martin Valkyrie is equipped with a hybrid V12 powertrain developing a maximum power of 1,155PS 04 September 2024, Monaco: Aston Martin’s Aramco Formula 1® Team driver, Fernando Alonso, took to the streets of Monaco today, following delivery of his Aston Martin Valkyrie; the ultimate hypercar, a true F1® car for the road. Alonso drove his new Valkyrie hypercar out of the iconic Monte Carlo Bay Hotel, showcasing a bespoke specification created in partnership with the design team at Aston Martin’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin. Taking inspiration from his Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team AMR24 race car, Alonso’s Valkyrie is painted in Satin Aston Martin Racing Green with bespoke contrasting AMR Satin Lime Graphics, emphasising the aerodynamic highlights of the hypercar. The cavernous Venturi Tunnel has been enhanced even further with the addition of Speed Red and Light and Dark Blue painted graphics. Exposed Carbon Fibre adorns the roof, engine cover, and lower aero and a Titanium Aston Martin Wings badge sits proudly on the nose. A bespoke ’CAUTION HOT’ graphic has also been applied to the rear. Inside the driver focussed cabin, the continuation of exposed carbon fibre is expansive, and swathes of Pure Black Alcantra are paired with a contrasting AMR Lime stitch. Alonso’s infamous logo can also be seen embroidered into the headrests in the same AMR Lime thread. Possibly the most intricate detail is in fact one that most will not see: A red anodised aluminium accelerator pedal etched with the number ‘14’, paying homage of course to Fernando Alonso’s driver number, chosen at the age of 14 on 14 July 1996 when he became karting world champion with #14. “It’s hard to put into words how much I have been looking forward to this day”, said Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver, Fernando Alonso. “To sit at the wheel of my own Valkyrie; one that I have worked on designing so closely with the team at Q by Aston Martin is certainly a day to remember. Valkyrie truly is an F1® car for the road, with so much of the knowledge and technology taken from all the experience Aston Martin has on track and I can’t wait to hit the road.” Accelerating from 0-60mph in under 2.5 seconds and boasting a hybrid 6.5-litre V12 powertrain developing a maximum power of 1,155PS, the Aston Martin Valkyrie incorporates a ferocious combination of F1® inspired aerodynamics and performance, delivering one of the most intense driving experiences achievable on the road. Like all Aston Martin sports cars, Valkyrie is being built at the marque’s UK Headquarters in Gaydon. A dedicated project delivery team manages the build right through to delivery in a specially commissioned Valkyrie production area. A team of highly skilled technicians hand-build each of the 150 cars, with each Valkyrie taking over 2000 man hours to create. Before each Valkyrie is delivered, it is track-tested at the Aston Martin high performance facility at the home of British Motorsport, Silverstone where much of the development of the hypercar has taken place. Q by Aston Martin is the marques unrivalled personalisation service, allowing customers to explore their design creativity with infinite capacity and delivering the ultimate expression of individuality. From bespoke paint colours and graphics on the exterior to personalised, intricate details etched into the interior, it is possible for Aston Martin customers to create a true one-of-a-kind specification.

White Motorcycle Concepts launches world’s first aero-electric motorcycle purpose-designed for fleets and first responders

Industry News

World’s first electric motorcycle where the battery design is shaped by aerodynamics Fully-electric design offers zero emissions, 100-mile range, 15-minute rapid recharging, and 100mph performance, supporting fleets and first responders practical transition to net zero Patented V-Duct delivers exceptional aerodynamic performance, while unique battery concept by MAHLE Powertrain enables high operational availability New WMC300E+ makes global debut at Cenex Expo 4-5th September 4th September 2024, Northampton: White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC), the company behind the British electric motorcycle land-speed world-record programme, has launched a new fully-electric rapid-charging motorcycle that is the first in the world designed specifically to meet the needs of fleets and first responders globally. The WMC300E+ offers a 100-mile range when measured against the aggressive emergency services drive cycle (125 miles against the standard drive cycle), yet can be recharged using a standard CCS charger in under 15 minutes thanks to a unique battery concept developed by MAHLE Powertrain. “The whole industry is facing a huge technical and commercial challenge to produce an electric motorcycle with performance close to its petrol equivalent,” said Robert White, Founder & CEO, White Motorcycle Concepts. “Current electric motorcycles are focussed upon retail needs, but fleet customers, and particularly emergency first responders, demand high levels of availability that, due to charge times, existing solutions just can’t deliver. Meeting that demand, while complying with forthcoming legislation and helping to achieve all fleet’s net-zero ambitions, has required clean-sheet engineering thinking and the combination of some innovative technologies. Following processes and procedures learnt whilst in F1, our in-house engineering team has rapidly developed the concept; using a range of validated in-house modelling and computer fluid dynamics simulation techniques, prototyping and validation, and finally engineering for, and delivering, full assembly. The result, the WMC300E+, presents a market-leading product for fleets and first responders, with greater operational parity to its petrol equivalent, but with zero emissions in use.” At the centre of its unique capabilities are a remarkable aerodynamic performance and an innovative battery design. The first makes use of WMC’s patented V-Duct, a venturi duct that passes through the centre of the motorcycle that substantially reduces aerodynamic drag, improving performance, enhancing stability, and reducing energy consumption. The concept behind this central air duct has been honed as part of the company’s land-speed record programme, and in the WMC300E+ an optimised dual-channel design delivers a 25% increase in aerodynamic efficiency. Key to the bike’s rapid charging, and therefore its high operational availability, is a unique battery concept, developed and built by specialist engineering provider MAHLE Powertrain. For motorcycles, the transition to an electric powertrain enables greater packaging freedoms and it is this principle that shaped the battery form. After a comprehensive programme of modelling, simulation and prototyping, WMC and MAHLE Powertrain’s engineers settled on a T-shaped battery pack, delivering mass centralisation (for optimum vehicle dynamics), maximising the duct aerodynamic efficiency benefit and fit within the bike’s complex packaging constraints. The battery cell features advanced Lithium Cobalt Oxide with Nickel Manganese Aluminium chemistry, capable of sustaining high charge rates yet also remarkably resistant to ageing for a longer lifespan. The pack incorporates key elements from MAHLE Powertrain’s innovative M³x battery module concept, including its novel cooling features that enhance cell thermal performance and ensure even temperature profiles across the entire pack, as well as the ability to supress propagation between cells in the event of a failure. A DC-DC converter is integrated within the battery pack, allowing the traction motor, charger, and the bike’s 12V system to be connected directly to it, simplifying the overall implementation. Special consideration was given to the need to power ancillary equipment such as lights, sirens and radios by emergency responders. The battery’s highly space-efficient design, despite its generous 11.9 kWh capacity, has allowed the practical under-seat storage to be retained and can easily accommodate a full-face helmet. “This project called upon the full suite of capabilities available at our Battery Engineering Centre in Northampton,” said Jonathan Hall, MAHLE Powertrain’s Head of Research and Advanced Engineering department. “Starting with a clean-sheet design, using a range of validated in-house modelling and simulation techniques, through to pack specification, cell selection and characterisation, prototyping and testing, and finally small series production, our team have worked closely with WMC to deliver the engineering solutions needed to meet their ambitious targets.” As a result of the conversion to fully-electric propulsion, the new WMC300E+ offers not just zero-emissions-in-use but also improved acceleration compared to its petrol equivalent. In addition, it is capable of speeds of up to 100mph while maintaining excellent aerodynamic stability, even when equipped with heavily-laden panniers. The bike’s striking design helps to make riders more visible – a key requirement in emergency response roles – while its ability to be ridden on a standard car licence removes the need for specialist training. This also makes it ideal for use in other services such as paramedic first responders and last-mile delivery duties, while its minimal charging footprint means it can be deployed easily, even where space and power considerations are limited. Beyond delivering zero-emissions transport for rapid response fleets, the project continues WMC’s sustainability focus through the use of recycled carbon-fibre in the motorcycle’s construction, while the ‘right-sized’ battery pack with fast charging capability, developed by MAHLE Powertrain, reduces the use of rare earth materials and minimises downtime. Partially funded by the Advanced Propulsion Centre’s second round of the Advanced Route to Market Demonstrator (ARMD2) programme, the project builds on the success of the WMC300FR hybrid three-wheeled motorcycle, developed in conjunction with Northamptonshire Police and on trial with emergency services across the UK. The new WMC300E+ made its public debut at Cenex Expo 2024, which runs from 4-5th September at UTAC Millbrook. To download full gallery of images, click here.

New and improved – the best-ever Volvo XC90

Industry News

What if we could make the best even better? With the new Volvo XC90, revealed today, we’ve done exactly that. The XC90 is a Volvo Cars icon, and thanks to a broad suite of technology and design updates inside and out, the award-winning and best-selling flagship hybrid SUV is now better than ever before. It’s a premium seven-seater with ‘comfortable’ as its middle name, it’s one of the safest cars on the road, and in plug-in hybrid form it’s an outstanding electric car with a back-up plan, offering more than 70 kilometres of fully electric range on a single charge under the WLTP testing cycle.* This means that many drivers will be able to do their day-to-day travel with zero tailpipe emissions. In fact, our data shows that around half of the distance covered by the latest plug-in hybrid Volvo cars is driven on pure electric power.** And the XC90 has more power when you need it – for longer trips, the hybrid powertrain is paired with an efficient petrol engine to extend your range by more than 800km.† You can also opt for the full combined power of petrol and electric for constant all-wheel drive or off-road driving. A new, more contemporary exterior design reinforces the XC90’s confident look. It reflects our ongoing transition towards full electrification and echoes elements of our newest, fully electric cars. Yet arguably the biggest news comes inside. A renewed interior enhances practicality and brings our latest user experience, seen in our new EX90 and EX30 electric cars, into the XC90. A larger central touchscreen with higher resolution improves the user experience and opens up a world of new features, apps and of course regular over-the-air software updates. Read more about the new infotainment system in our separate release. “The new XC90 exudes confidence, and why wouldn’t it? Our hybrid flagship has been one of our best-selling models for years and it’s still a favourite among many customers,” says Jim Rowan, CEO of Volvo Cars. “Whether it’s comfort, space, luxury, versatility or hybrid efficiency you look for, the XC90 delivers on all accounts. Put together, the XC90 and its fully electric EX90 sibling provide customers with the options that suit them best and equip us with a balanced portfolio as we continue our transition towards full electrification.” A balanced product portfolioAlongside our new line-up of fully electric cars, the plug-in hybrid XC90 T8 remains a popular choice for our customers and an important car for us in terms of sales and profitability. Together with our fully electric models, plug-in hybrid cars like the XC90 and its siblings make up an exciting and balanced global product portfolio for Volvo Cars, providing a strong bridge to a fully electrified future. This balance between fully electric and plug-in hybrids is the right portfolio for the market of today, as the premium fully electric market is still developing in several key markets. Plug-ins remain critical to our sales and profit growth plans over the coming years. One of the safest cars on the roadAs with every Volvo car, the XC90 is one of the safest cars available. It is equipped with an advanced safety cage, as well as a comprehensive suite of active safety features to help keep you, your loved ones and others on the road safe. Using radar and a front camera, the XC90 can detect if you’ve drifted into the oncoming lane and steer you safely back into your own lane to avoid the risk of a collision. It will also help you avoid inadvertently running off the road. And it can use braking and steering to help avoid collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and large animals, such as the moose from our native Sweden. Legendary comfort: standardThe ride in the XC90 is better than ever before, with legendary seating comfort and improved suspension as standard. Each individual damper is now able to adapt mechanically to current road conditions to optimise both comfort and stability – for a more confident and relaxed driving experience. And if you want to go all in, the optional air suspension works together with an active chassis that monitors the car, road and driver 500 times per second to give the most comfortable ride possible. Depending on whether you want easy access getting in or out, better aerodynamics at speed, or additional ride height for rough terrain, an XC90 with air suspension can lower itself by 20mm or raise itself by 40mm. On top of that we’ve added extra insulation to certain parts of the car, which means there’s even less wind and road noise. The renewed interior comes with a redesigned cabin that represents the best of contemporary Scandinavian design. The dashboard has a more horizontal shape than before, incorporates decorative panels made from premium recycled materials for a more textured finish, and is split by new vertical air vents. Enhanced illumination contributes to an even more luxurious feel at night. We’ve also reconfigured the cabin to make it even more practical in response to feedback from current XC90 owners. Our designers created additional storage space in the centre console, including an additional cupholder, and placed the wireless phone charger behind the central tunnel, separate from the main storage area, for greater convenience. The XC90 can be specified with one of the best-sounding audio systems in a car – the Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system that can faithfully replicate the acoustics of a stage, a concert hall or a jazz club. Finally, for customers who prefer it, we also offer a choice of two mild-hybrid petrol variants. Both the B5 and B6 are assisted by a 48v lithium-ion battery and an integrated starter/generator which can help reduce emissions and fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent in real-world driving. The new Volvo XC90 is available to order from today. Production is scheduled to begin in late 2024, with first customer deliveries set to start around the end of the year.†† The small print* Range…

New-generation user experience comes to our new XC90 flagship SUV – and millions of Volvo cars worldwide

Industry News

At Volvo Cars, we aim to make complexity simple. We want to create a great experience that helps you go about your daily life with your car in a safe, focused and enjoyable way. This is what guided us when we created the new infotainment system in our all-electric EX90 and EX30 models. Now we’re also bringing this philosophy to our celebrated Volvo XC90 SUV. But the new user experience won’t be limited to just one model. We will also deliver our latest user experience to millions of Volvo drivers around the world with a simple over-the-air software update. If you currently drive a Volvo car with Google built-in*, you’ll also get an upgraded layout – free of charge. During 2025, around 2.5 million customers around the globe will receive an upgrade on their Volvo cars built as early as 2020**. We plan to gradually roll out this upgrade during the year and believe this is one of the most comprehensive infotainment updates by any car maker to date. This roll-out is in line with our strategy to make our cars better over time with regular over-the-air software updates. “Our new-generation user experience will deliver a significant improvement in customer experience and is an important step in our journey to delivery human-centric technology solutions to our customers,” says Erik Severinson, Chief Product and Strategy Officer at Volvo Cars. “We’ll continuously and seamlessly adapt the user experience to match the needs of our customers through new and enhanced features that are delivered through over-the-air updates, to improve your car – and your experience – over time.” To further enhance the experience inside the new XC90, we’ve installed a larger, 11.2-inch, free-standing central screen. We’ve also increased the pixel density by 21 per cent, resulting in an even crisper display. But the content on the screen represents the biggest change. We now present the most common apps and controls, such as maps, media and phone on the home screen – the same setup as our latest electric cars. That means it takes fewer taps on the screen to get to the features you most often use. For example, if you’re following navigation directions and want to change the music, you no longer have to leave Google Maps to access the media feature. It’s there for you already. Then there is the contextual bar, which changes what you see according to the situation and displays your most recently used apps. And if you’re driving at low speeds, the icon for outside cameras appears so you can get help manoeuvring in tight spaces. If you’re a plug-in hybrid driver, we’re making it easier for you to get the most out of your electric powertrain. Via ‘Drive Modes’ on the home screen you can easily access ‘Pure’ mode alongside other options. If you’ve just arrived in a town centre and want to drive on electric power only, it’s now just a tap away. Our new-generation user experience can be adapted and scaled to fit different screen shapes and sizes. That way, we can bring the latest Volvo Cars infotainment experience to you, no matter if you drive a new XC90, an EX90, or a three-year-old XC40, and make it easier for you to focus on what truly matters: the road ahead. The small print* Or its equivalent in China and South Korea.** Including C40, XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, XC60, S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90 with Android operating system. Google, Google Play and Google Maps are trademarks of Google LLC.

Meyers Manx unveils 2.0 EV pre-production dune buggy at Goodwood Revival

Industry News

American automotive brand celebrates 60 Years of Iconic Design The Meyers Manx 2.0 EV Pre-production dune buggy will be unveiled for the first time in the UK and Europe at the prestigious 2024 Goodwood Revival on the 6th of September. The media, enthusiasts and attendees at the Revival are invited to join Meyers Manx for the unveiling of the future of their iconic brand. The next-generation electric vehicle pays homage to Bruce Meyers’ revolutionary design while integrating state-of-the-art technology. The 2.0 model preserves the classic lines and adventurous spirit that have made Meyers Manx buggies a symbol of freedom and innovation, now reimagined for the environmentally conscious driver. “Goodwood Revival is a remarkable stage for showcasing our vision,” said Phillip Sarofim, Meyers Manx chairman. “We’re not just unveiling the new 2.0 EV; we’re presenting a philosophy – where the legacy of the past is reimagined with the innovation of the future. I’m thrilled to share our 2.0 EV Pre-production model, especially as it demonstrates our relentless pursuit of blending classic design with modern technology.” The Goodwood Revival, renowned for celebrating the golden age of motorsport, marks a significant milestone as Meyers Manx celebrates its 60th anniversary, honoring six decades of pioneering design and engineering excellence. Throughout the event, Meyers Manx will lead the opening track parade each day, featuring a line-up that spans the brand’s full history. This unique showcase will feature classic buggies including the Steve McQueen Thomas Crown Affair car, highlighting the brand’s enduring legacy and connection to popular culture. Founded by Bruce Meyers in 1964, Meyers Manx transformed the dune buggy into a cultural icon, capturing the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road. The brand has pushed the boundaries of design and performance, influencing generations of enthusiasts. The celebration at the Goodwood Revival is a testament to Meyers Manx lasting impact globally and a preview of the exciting future that lies ahead.

CUPRA unveils the Terramar, the new hero for a new era, at the 37th edition of the America’s Cup

Industry News

THERE IS NO SECOND The new sporty SUV brings the CUPRA brand upmarket, to new customers and new growing segments without losing its rebellious and challenger spirit The CUPRA Terramar embraces the new design language of the brand, with a bold and confident look It will be available with different powertrains, including the new generation of plug-in hybrid technology (eHybrid), delivering 272PS (200kW) and offering more than 70 miles of all-electric range CUPRA joins forces with America’s Cup under the motto ‘There is no second’ and launches the limited edition “Terramar America’s Cup” The new CUPRA Terramar was presented with a unique global campaign made in collaboration with film director J.A. Bayona The brand has also released the 100% electric boat E23 Terramar in collaboration with De Antonio Yachts and a new capsule Collection representing the sailing spirit of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup CUPRA is one of the fastest growing brands in the industry and has already delivered around 700,000 cars since its launch in 2018 Martorell, 03-09-2024 – Against the backdrop of the America’s Cup, one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, CUPRA unveils the new CUPRA Terramar, the brand’s new hero for a new era. The sporty SUV moves CUPRA upmarket into the hotspot of the fastest growing segment in Europe as part of the brand’s biggest ever product offensive following the recent launches of the new CUPRA Leon, Formentor, Born VZ and Tavascan. “With the CUPRA Terramar, we will not only grow our portfolio of products but at the same time help our brand to “grow-up” by bringing CUPRA upmarket, to new customers and new growing segments, without, however, losing our rebellious and challenger spirit.” said Wayne Griffiths, CEO of CUPRA. “A car that reinforces CUPRA today as a brand that is more mature, more confident in its direction, and more certain in its identity than ever before, without ever compromising on a rebellious spirit and authenticity.” To date, CUPRA has delivered around 700,000 vehicles and the brand recently extended its record-breaking journey, registering the best first half year in its history by delivering 125,700 cars, an increase of 17.2% compared to the same period in 2023 (107,300). CUPRA Terramar: the new hero of a new eraThe CUPRA Terramar embraces the brand’s new design language, with a bold and confident look. The new sporty SUV features the iconic three triangle signature, with CUPRA Matrix LED Ultra, with High-Definition Technology. The front exterior design is extenuated as the grille gives way to the performance-oriented functional lower mouth, suggestive of sports cars. The sporty proportions skip from the front of the SUV to the side, with sweeping lines that shift from the front across the side to heighten the SUV’s sense of performance. As the eye moves to the CUPRA Terramar’s rear design, its wide proportions give the SUV a strong presence, with the integrated and illuminated CUPRA logo positioned centrally between the rear lights along with the Terramar name illuminated. The rear diffuser contrasts with the other elements of the design helping to lighten its proportions, giving it a defiant character. The CUPRA Terramar will be available in nine exterior colours, including two matt options –Century Bronze Matt and Enceladus Grey Matt, as well as the Dark Void, inspired by the plasma colour of the CUPRA DarkRebel Showcar. The interior reinterprets sportiness with a driver-oriented cockpit enhanced by the design of the centre console. It also embraces sustainability with bucket seats wrapped in its central areas either with textile created from 100% upcycled SEAQUAL® YARN, Dinamica with at least 73% recycled textile or leather that uses a plant-based tanning process. Digitalisation is at the centre of the driver’s focus with a newly designed HMI implemented in the digital cockpit, as well as in the 12.9” infotainment system with a retro-illuminated slider. In addition, CUPRA continues its collaboration with the audio experts of Sennheiser mobility, integrating a high-fidelity 12-speaker sound system. The CUPRA Terramar brings together the possibilities of combustion and electrification with five different powertrains across three technologies: TSI (petrol), eTSI (mild hybrid) and the new generation of plug-in hybrid (e-HYBRID) engines, delivering from 150PS to 272PS. Driving dynamics is enhanced thanks to the standard sport suspension and progressive steering, as well as the new adaptative chassis control and Akebono brakes. Designed and developed in Barcelona, the CUPRA Terramar will be produced in Audi’s Györ plant in Hungary. Deliveries will start during the last quarter of this year. An unforgettable experienceUnder the motto ‘There is no second’, the CUPRA Terramar was presented in the context of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, the world’s most prestigious sailing competition and the biggest sporting event to come to Barcelona after the 1992 Olympics. The presentation took place at the America’s Cup Experience, the first and only official exhibition center of the competition, located in the historic IMAX building, in the harbour of Barcelona. This innovative space allows visitors to discover the secrets of the oldest sports competition in the world, where tradition and history are linked with cutting-edge technology and passion. In this emblematic location, it is also possible to experience first-hand all the emotions that make this competition unique, thanks to a simulator and immersive experiences. As the official car of the competition, the CUPRA Terramar World Premiere counted on the presence of Grant Dalton, CEO of the America’s Cup, who joined Wayne Griffiths, CEO of CUPRA, to underline their commitment to continue inspiring the world from Barcelona. The strategic alliance, forged in December 2023, was established based on both brands’ winning attitude, innovation, performance, and the ambition to connect with the people of the Mediterranean city. The new CUPRA Terramar was presented with its brand-new global campaign, a unique film made in collaboration with J.A. Bayona, CUPRA’s brand ambassador. The renowned film director explained his inspiring creative process in the making of this project about the brand’s competitive spirit, self-improvement, and the concept of ‘There is no second’. Moreover, he highlighted the values his work shares with CUPRA: Defying…

The all-new, all-electric Volvo EX90 SUV on the road – first customers will get their cars this month

Industry News

The fully electric Volvo EX90 is ready and on the road: the first batch of our flagship SUV is being shipped to our retailers in the United States and Europe right now, and the first customers will get their cars before the end of this month. We will ramp up deliveries, including to more markets between the fourth quarter of this year and the first quarter of 2025. The EX90 is Volvo Cars’ new flagship and sets new standards for our company in safety, sustainability and human-centric technology that makes people’s lives easier and more enjoyable. So when we tested our new flagship, we placed high demands on it and pushed it to its limits. Our chief executive Jim Rowan has put the EX90 through its paces for the past few weeks. Together with colleagues, he’s taken the EX90 on a road trip across the United States – from our plant outside of Charleston in South Carolina to California. “Based on this trip, I can confidently say that the EX90 is the best car we have ever made,” says Jim Rowan. “After driving it for 950 kilometres through three states in the US in various driving conditions and road surfaces, I only have positive memories. The charging, the handling, the ride comfort, the silence of the cabin and the epic sound system, the reliability, the tech and the feel of the UI – I’ve never driven a Volvo car like it. The EX90 is the start of a new era for Volvo Cars, and it begins now.” And you don’t just have to take our word for it: recently, we let hundreds of journalists from all over the world experience all the qualities of the EX90, as we held a global media test drive southeast of Los Angeles, USA. The start of a new eraThe EX90 also represents a paradigm shift for the company as the first Volvo car powered by a core system. The in-car AI computer is built on the NVIDIA DRIVE® platform. This core system, plus the Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and in-house-developed software by Volvo Cars engineers, work seamlessly together to run the key functions inside the car, from safety and infotainment to battery management. The result is a more responsive and convenient car experience. Born smart and connected with Google built in, the EX90 is equipped with a range of sensors, including radars, cameras and a lidar supplied by Luminar for enhanced safety. The data collection from sensors, coupled with an always-on 5G connection and regular over-the-air software updates, allows us to continuously improve the car’s features and grow its functionality over time. In other words, the EX90 is designed to grow and develop together with you. “The Volvo EX90 embodies our future as a fully electric car maker, with cars that continuously get better over time thanks to core computing and software updates,” says Jim Rowan. “It’s a testament to our global engineering capabilities and reaffirms our position as a leader in the ongoing technology shift in the car industry.” The EX90 is based on our next-generation technology base, fully electric by design, with a driving range of up to 600km*. It’s designed to be the safest car we’ve ever made, full of next-generation passive and active safety technology and software informed by a set of advanced sensors. The EX90 is a car of many firsts. It’s the first Volvo car to be equipped with a lidar, and the first with a core computing system. It’s also the first Volvo car designed to deliver bi-directional charging, allowing customers to contribute to a more balanced grid and more renewable energy use in society. And it’s the world’s first car to offer the Abbey Road Studios mode, which comes with the optional Bowers & Wilkins top-level audio system. Production of the EX90 started earlier this year at our manufacturing plant just outside Charleston, in South Carolina, USA, which has the capacity to build up to 150,000 cars per year. In recent years, we have made extensive investments in its facilities, renewing and expanding the body shop and paint shop. The plant now also has a state-of-the-art battery pack production line. With these investments, our US production facility is well prepared for the start of this new era. The small print *Range according to the realistic WLTP driving cycle under controlled conditions for a new car. Real-world range may vary. Figures are based on preliminary target.

RADwood UK kitted out with Max Power Reunion

Industry News

Max Power stars of the 80s and 90s to pump up the jam at RADwood UK 2024 RADwood UK 2024 takes place at the Chatham Historic Dockyard on Saturday 7th September Event celebrates the culture and cars of the of the 1980s and 90s Iconic RAD cars on display include a Ferrari F40 LM, Lamborghini Contact and Porsche 959 RAD arcade games, including Outrun and Sega Rally, will be available to enjoy free of charge Tickets, priced from £25 per car are available now Bicester Heritage: 4th September 2024 The ultimate retro motoring show experience, RADwood UK 2024, will showcase some of the most radical cars that appeared in the pages of Max Power magazine. Saturday 7th September will see members of the Max Power Reunion joining automotive icons of the 80s and 90s at Chatham Historic Dockyard to celebrate the flamboyance of the era. The wild body kits, cool paint jobs and pumping sounds of the Max Power generation will be a significant presence. Expect to see everything from a pink Peugeot 206 and the Volkswagen ‘Pringles Golf’ with its Lambo-style scissor doors, to a retro BTCC Renault Laguna. and all sports of creative rides in-between. Many of these rides dominated the Saturday night supermarket car park meets of the era, but RADwood is also home to the cars you drove or dreamed of driving. The Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Renault 5 GT Turbo, Toyota MR2 and many others will be on display for owners and enthusiasts to discuss their fave memories of the era. Some of the most iconic supercars of the time will also be on show, including a number of Athena poster favourites. These include the Ferrari F40 LM, Honda NSX, Lamborghini Countach and Porsche 959. Everyone is encouraged to get in on the spirit of these exuberant decades. Pull out your old shell-suits, flecked trousers and big shoulder pads and get dressed up. Put some batteries in the stereo, dig out that old Sony Walkman or Motorola flip-phone and be part of the incredible vibe that was the 80s and 90s. It’s also a chance to celebrate one of the biggest shows of the era. It is 40 years since Crockett and Tubbs raced onto our TV screens in Miami Vice. Whether it was the snazzy clothes, or the famous white Ferrari Testarossa that grabbed your attention, RADwood UK 2024 is an awesome opportunity to show off your Miami style. Whether you arrive in a 1980s Fiesta XR2 or a go full Magnum P.I. in a Ferrari 308, there are plenty of prizes on offer in a number of categories. This includes a display for cars of the era, a Show’n’Shine and there will also be a price for the best dressed guest. If you threw your 80s gear out years ago, then all the retro clobber you loved will be available at the Rokit Vintage village in the main boathouse. The sounds of the RADwood years will be on sale at the record fair, a great place find that elusive cassette, 12-inch vinyl or MiniDisc album. What 80s and 90s extravaganza would be complete without the arcade games we all spent so many hours on. The video game arcade will include Outrun, Sega Rally and Streetfighter, with all games set to free-play so visitors can battle it out for their place on the 8-bit leaderboard. General Admission tickets cost £25 per car or £15 for a motorcycle, which includes entry to the display area if you’re driving something RAD. For £35 you can enter your car in the Show ’n’ Shine, but you’ll need to move fast as just a few slots are still available. Full ticket information is available here.

Protean Electric unveils further product offerings to widen the market for its industry-leading IWM technology

Industry News

Farnham, UK – [4 September 2024] – Protean Electric (Protean) the world-leading developer of in-wheel motors (IWM) has unveiled a new suite of products built on its Gen 5 ProteanDrive modular architecture. The expansion of Protean’s Gen5 platform will be showcased at the Cenex Expo 2024, and will include the introduction of 800Vdc technologies into Protean’s product line up. Unveiled today is the compact and lightweight ProteanMotor Pm18 – 800V, which delivers 110kW and 1500Nm of torque, alongside the 800V SiC TwinverterTM, which is a 500kW inverter, configured as dual 250kw inverters capable of 650Arms phase current and 98.5 per cent peak efficiency. These products are augmented by the 400V Pm18 and ProteanInverter and pave the way for far higher performance IWM designs to be revealed later in this year. Discussing the new product portfolio, Stephen Lambert, Chief Technology Officer of Protean Electric, said, “In-wheel motors are transforming the future of electric vehicles by offering superior efficiency, performance, and design flexibility and today we demonstrate that we are at the forefront of this innovation. Our IWM experience and the adaptability of our Gen5 modular platform, allows us to create a compact and lightweight offering, the Pm-18 800V, alongside our industry-leading 800V SiC TwinverterTM. By delivering these products ready for manufacturing at scale, and focusing on rigorous testing and validation, we are paving the way for the next generation of electric vehicles.” The unveiling of these modular products follows quickly after the launch of its Gen 5 Pd18 IWM and demonstrates the flexibility of the Gen5 platform. The development of these products and future technologies is in direct response to established technology collaborations with OEMs to meet the tailored needs of their specific vehicle applications. These advancements have been supported by InnovateUK and Advanced Propulsion Centre’s (APC) ARMD2 programme, under Project Olympus. Project Olympus, which concludes at Cenex Expo 2024, supported Protean to pioneer these innovative lightweight and efficient technologies for IWMs. It was granted to expedite IWM adoption by OEM customers, surpassing current benchmarks and improving electric vehicles range, packaging, driving experience and more. Protean will showcase some of these new products and technologies at the UK Government Pavilion at the Cenex Expo 2024 at UTAC Millbrook, UK on the 4th and 5th of September .

Five money-saving tips for switching to an EV

Industry News

With World EV Day next week (9 Sept), drivers could make massive savings by switching to an electric car, according to Ohme, the UK’s leading smart home EV charging company. Ohme can help you to charge your car smarter, cleaner and cheaper and to celebrate World EV Day, here are five top money-saving tips for EV drivers: Saving tip 1 – Drive an EVIt sounds obvious, but if you’re driving an electric vehicle, then the great news is that you’re already saving money compared to running a petrol or diesel car. With the average driver spending more than £1100* a year on fuel costs alone, just switching to an electric car and charging it at home could more than halve your costs to just £416.50** for an entire year for the same annual mileage even at the new electricity rate arriving on 1 October. Saving tip 2 – Choose a dynamic home electricity tariffWant to run an EV for less than £10 a month? It may sound too good to be true, but that’s the reality if you switch to a dynamic home electricity tariff from the likes of Octopus or OVO. Thanks to its dynamic tariff integration, with an Ohme EV charger you can access all of the UK’s cheapest electricity tariffs, meaning you can reduce the running costs even more. The same typical UK driver mentioned above doing 6800mls a year could spend just £119*** for an entire year of driving. Saving tip 3 – Cheaper overnight electricitySome dynamic home electricity tariffs can mean that all of the electricity coming into your home is at the cheap rate at certain times – usually overnight. That means that any household appliances you can also use during those times will be at the same reduced rate, increasing your savings on your household electricity bill as well as for your EV. Saving tip 4 – Get an EV company carIf you have a company car, then you need to get an EV. It’s really that simple. Electric vehicles pay just 2% Benefit-in-Kind company car tax for 2024/25. Another popular alternative is to get an EV on salary sacrifice from your employer. With salary sacrifice the leasing payments are taken from your gross income before you pay tax rather than after it as with a traditional company car scheme, leaving you with more disposable income. Saving tip 5 – Take part in a grid flexibility trialThis summer Ohme has been involved in an Ofgem project called the CrowdFlex energy trial. This project was to incentivise EV drivers to plug in their cars more frequently to get a better understanding of the role EV drivers can play with balancing the electricity grid of the future. By participating in the trial, drivers earned rewards by simply plugging-in whenever they were parked at home. Ohme is involved in a similar trial from this month until April 2025. Grid flexibility services such as these are estimated to save consumers £10 billion a year in energy costs by 2050. * Based on £1.43/litre and efficiency of 40mpg** SVT at 24.5p/kWh (rate from 1 October)*** Intelligent Octopus Go at 7p/kWh For more information visit www.ohme-ev.com