Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Enhances Fleet with New Kodiaq SUVs for Flexible Duty Officer Transport

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service Expands Fleet with 21 Škoda Kodiaqs The vehicles will serve as flexible duty officer transport for operational incidents Kodiaqs were selected for their spacious interiors, especially the versatile boot space, with turnkey conversion from an approved Škoda converter Milton Keynes, 25 June 2024 – Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue has bolstered its fleet by adding new Kodiaq SUVs. These vehicles are ready for service thanks to a Škoda-approved converter. The newly acquired Kodiaqs mark the first time this model is being used by the fire service. Equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI engine delivering 200 PS, DSG transmission, and all-wheel drive, these SUVs offer both performance and efficiency. These Škoda Kodiaqs will be utilized across various functions but primarily for transporting flexible duty officers to operational incidents like road traffic collisions or hazardous material situations. Converted by Pressfab EVO Limited—an approved specialist—the cars meet specific requirements such as practical load areas equipped with grilles and fire extinguishing apparatuses. They also feature blue lights and integrated communications equipment. Colin Carter, Fleet Operations Manager at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service:“We chose the Kodiaq mainly because of its ample interior space. The large boot can accommodate all necessary equipment for our flexible duty officers. Having them converted before delivery simplifies getting these vehicles into service.” Škoda offers emergency fleets—including Ambulance, Police, Fire & Rescue teams—a range of customizable options through bespoke converters. This includes integrating communication platforms within infotainment systems along with comprehensive lighting solutions tailored to individual needs via approved specialists.

American Collector to Showcase Legendary 1957 Ferrari at Salon Privé Concours in Blenheim Palace

Salon Privé Concours 2024 at Blenheim Palace to feature a legendary 1957 Ferrari 335 S from an American collector This iconic car, Chassis #0674, was driven by racing legends like Stirling Moss and Peter Collins The vehicle served as a reference for Michael Mann’s ‘Ferrari’ film The event will take place on August 28-31, marking the Salon Privé’s nineteenth year Presented by Aviva , tickets are available at https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/. An American collector is set to showcase a world-renowned, storied 1957 Ferrari 335 S at this summer’s Salon Privé Concours held at Blenheim Palace from August 28-31. Known as chassis number ‘0674’, this remarkable car boasts a rich history in motorsport and has been part of Pierre Bardinon’s esteemed collection for over four decades. Acknowledged as one of the greatest Ferraris ever built, the Ferrari starred in the epic World Sports Car Championship of its time. Its exceptional four-cam engine marked it out among competitors with unlimited engine sizes. This famed model began life as a right-hand drive racer under chassis number ‘0626’ before being converted into its current form after notable races including Mille Miglia and Nurburgring. The transformation included sophisticated suspension but retained drum brakes instead of adopting disc brakes which were becoming popular then. The car first raced in its new guise during the Sebring race where drivers Peter Collins and Maurice Trintignant finished sixth despite early dominance. Wolfgang von Trips later drove it to second place in what would be Mille Miglia’s final run due to tragic events mid-race. Dramatic modifications followed throughout that season leading up until Le Mans where Mike Hawthorn alongside Luigi Musso showcased fierce competition although they did not finish due to mechanical issues; however subsequent performances solidified their standing within Swedish GP ranks too! Latterly modified again by Scaglietti towards end-of-season finale saw them clinch top spots across Caracas circuit finishing strong behind winning duo comprising Phil Hill & Peter Collins respectively securing further accolades along way culminating Havana Grand Prix victory helmed jointly between Stirling Moss/Masten Gregory thereafter repainted blue-white stripe scheme synonymous North America Racing Team (NART). Selling onwards post two seasons competitive action Robert Duesk renowned saving many famous models approached noted Frenchman Pierre Bardinon eventually acquiring restoring back original specifications Fantuzzi Modena regularly used private track grounds home seldom leaving museum gates yet often driven showcasing enthusiasts clubs alike worldwide recognition ensued following acquisition Artcurial Retromobil Auction fetching nearly £25 million since featuring numerous prestigious events Finali Mondiali Daytona Classiche Concours amongst others adding cinematic credentials courtesy meticulous examination prior filming Michael Mann biopic focusing pivotal moments career particularly highlighting significant achievements therein ensuring legacy continues inspire generations come! “I’m thrilled this exceptional Ferrari joins us,” said Chairman Andrew Bagley: “It holds truly remarkable history piloted some most iconic racers period records images abound justifying status greatest ever thanks enthusiasm our friend highlight upcoming event guests globally inspect firsthand.” Entries Closing Soon For Upcoming Edition Presented By Aviva: Pre-War Closed/Elegance Category Entries Open Now! li > Bugatti – From Grand Prix To Touring Porsche Rennsport Legendary Liveries Those interested entering should contact Nick Wilkes via email provided website link above ensure participation secured timely manner avoid disappointment potential late submissions accepted basis availability only hurry act fast guarantee spot today don’t miss chance witness automotive excellence unfold live person amidst stunning backdrop historic venue unparalleled experience awaits attendees mark calendars prepare unforgettable journey through motoring heritage passion dedication craftsmanship epitomized every detail displayed vehicles celebrating past present future industry innovation progress together united shared love cars beyond mere transportation means expression artistry engineering marvels pushing boundaries human ingenuity creativity limitless possibilities await discover explore immerse yourself ultimate celebration automobile culture join us make memories last lifetime see there!

Milltek Unveils New OEM+ Exhaust Design for Classic Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

Premium exhaust specialist expands its OEM+ systems for classic cars from the 1980s and 1990s, integrating modern technologies The latest products for Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Mk1 improve aesthetics and sound just in time for convertible season The updated Milltek Classic range also features BMW M3 E30 and Peugeot 205 GTI models Milltek has announced updates to its ‘Milltek Classic’ exhaust system line this week, featuring a new OEM+ design for the first-generation Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet. Just in time for open-top driving season, the newest Milltek Classic product is available in resonated or louder non-resonated versions. Each option enhances the standard engine note of this iconic eighties convertible while maintaining the original factory exhaust tip look. The Milltek Classic collection includes many popular designs from their 40-year history. Every new product is extensively re-engineered using cutting-edge technology and manufacturing processes. All applications are designed as ‘OEM+’, promising improved performance, quality, durability, sound, material quality, silencer design, and acoustics. All Milltek Classic systems benefit from an extensive R&D process – starting with the original ‘OEM’ exhaust system. Engineers identify weaknesses through a detailed 3D scanning and testing procedure. Other notable systems include those for BMW M3 (E30) and Peugeot 205 GTI – two iconic ’80s classics that have significantly increased in value over recent years. While these vehicles have always been popular among Milltek customers, there’s now a shift towards factory-finish rather than larger performance-focused exhausts. The development of the latest Mk1 Golf Cabriolet reflects Milltek’s philosophy of “by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts,” utilizing Managing Director Steve Pound’s personal Helios Blue model during design and testing phases. Steve Pound stated: “Demand for our Milltek Classic range has grown steadily over the past two years. The Mk1 Golf Cabriolet stands out as particularly sought-after by our clients. Our designs cater to those seeking enhanced performance, sound quality, and durability without straying far from stock tailpipe appearances.” Visit www.millteksport.com or call (01322)227280

Hyundai Motor UK Crowns Top Technician in 2024 Skills Olympics

Skills Olympics competition finds the best of the best Liam Hendry of Macklin Motors Hyundai crowned 2024 champion European Skills Olympics to be held in September High Wycombe, 25th June 2024 Hyundai Motor UK recently hosted the 2024 UK Skills Olympics, showcasing top talent from its network of 870 technicians. Open to all Expert and Master level Technicians within Hyundai’s retailer network, this event determines who will represent the UK at the European finals in September. Participants began with a remote test via an app developed by Hyundai Motor UK’s Training Academy. The top twelve were then invited for a two-day practical assessment at High Wycombe’s training center. Liam Hendry from Macklin Motors Hyundai emerged as the overall winner and will compete at Nürburgring in September. This year’s event is also a testament to eighteen months of curriculum development by Hyundai’s Technical Training team, focusing on cutting-edge technology and diagnostics. “The annual UK Skills Olympics has become one of our key events,” said Ben Sargeant, Customer Experience Director. “Congratulations to Liam on his outstanding result.” “This competition challenges even our highest skilled technicians,” added Phil Weston, Technical Training & Development Manager. “We look forward to seeing Liam excel at the European event.” “Winning this year’s UK Skills Olympics is incredibly satisfying given my competitors’ high skill levels,” said Liam Hendry. The finalists included: 1st Place Liam Hendry Macklin Motors Hyundai, Dunfermline 2nd Place Jamie Robinson Endeavour Hyundai, Ipswich < td nowrap=””style = “width :106 .3pt ; text -align:center;” > p >< tr / > Highly Commended

Hyundai IONIQ 5 N named Best Performance Car at Autocar Awards 2024

Electric hot Hyundai picks up top honour from the experts at Autocar Judges hail N model as a game changer that is “huge fun to drive” Award follows a string of accolades throughout 2024 for EV trailblazer IONIQ 5 N is available to order from £65,000 Leatherhead, June 26th 2024 – Serial winner the Hyundai IONIQ 5N has claimed yet another high-profile honour by being named Best Performance Car in the 2024 Autocar Awards. The prestigious awards are held annually by the world’s oldest motoring magazine and recognise the very best cars on sale today in a variety of key areas of the market. The ground-breaking IONIQ 5 N was up against a number of traditional internal combustion models from established high-performance brands, as well as an array of ultra-powerful electrified cars, but won over the expert judging panel thanks to the sheer enjoyment it delivers for drivers. Mark Tisshaw, Autocar Editor, said: “The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N changes the game for performance cars and for electric vehicles as a car that is huge fun to drive on the road and track. Instant electric power joins forces with a very cleverly tuned rear differential to make it more interactive than many lighter ICE powered cars, and it feels completely natural from behind the wheel, and not intimidating at all. “But as well as being absorbing and engaging when you want to have fun, its completeness makes it a car that you want to drive as often as you possibly can. It is genuinely comfortable, has truly usable range and benefits from the same rapid charging as the IONIQ 5. It’s a revelation.” The high-performance model is based on the same Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) as the standard IONIQ 5 – the 2022 World Car of the Year – and integrates the motorsport-bred technologies and expertise of Hyundai’s N division to take driving enjoyment to a new level. Among a host of key technical advances is a powertrain which delivers greater power output and enhanced performance in battery cooling and braking. The IONIQ 5 N’s electric motors spin up to 21,000 RPM, providing up to 609 PS in normal conditions, or 650 PS when the car’s N Grin Boost (NGB) feature is engaged, maximising acceleration for up to 10 seconds. 0-62mph is achievable in 3.4 seconds, while a top speed of 161mph is attainable on tracks. Other upgrades include a strengthened steering column for improved feedback, Electronic Controlled Suspension that adapts suspension stiffness according to the drive mode, and a suite of sophisticated electronic control technology in the E-GMP platform. Highlights include N Pedal, an intelligent software function that provides instant turn-in and enhanced throttle sensitivity for exhilarating cornering, and fully variable front and rear N Torque Distribution. The IONIQ 5 N also sets a new benchmark in terms of emotional engagement for a performance EV, courtesy of N e-shift, which simulates the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission of internal combustion engine N cars, while the addictive soundtrack comes via innovative N Active Sound+ technology. N e-shift and N Active Sound+ were praised by Autocar, with Mark Tisshaw adding: “There are a lot of settings menus to experiment with, and the IONIQ 5 lets you tailor the driving experience to your driving preferences. Within reason, it can be whatever you want it to be.” The recognition from Autocar is the latest in a series of accolades for the IONIQ 5 N, including being crowned 2024 World Performance Car in the World Car Awards. In December it was named TopGear.com’s overall 2023 Car of the Year, following that up in May as Best EV Hot Hatch in the TopGear.com Electric Awards. In the same month, CAR hailed it as the world’s best electric performance car following a definitive seven-car test, while earlier in June it won Auto Trader’s Rory Reid Award as the finest model tested by the presenter over the past year. The IONIQ 5 N has also made history at the Nürburgring, where it recorded the fastest electric SUV lap time with Germany’s Sport Auto. Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, said: “The awards just keep on coming for the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, a car we have consistently described as a game changer for electrified performance. It is pleasing to see that the experts at Autocar agree, and also recognise that as well as being a great car to drive, the IONIQ 5 is comfortable and extremely user friendly, making it an exceptional ownership proposition.” For more information on the IONIQ 5 N, which is available to order from £65,000, visit www.hyundai.co.uk

Aston Martin Valiant: the champion of pure driving passion

Ultra-exclusive, track-focused, road-legal extreme Valiant special edition developed through bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin Originated from a personal commission by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver Fernando Alonso Continues the brand’s long tradition in developing highly collectable special edition models Powered by 745PS 5.2 litre Twin-Turbo V12 engine mated to a bespoke 6-speed manual transmission Bespoke chassis specification features Multimatic ASV dampers and recalibrated electronics for enhanced track capability Spectacular all-carbon fibre bodywork with aerodynamic features reduces weight and increases downforce; pared-back, lightweight interior enhances connection and driver focus Stunning styling reimagines iconic legendary ‘Muncher’ Le Mans racer using cutting edge materials and technology Further weight savings achieved with use of magnesium, titanium and advanced 3D printing for key components Production strictly limited to 38 units globally and first deliveries to commence in Q4 2024 Public debut set for 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the hands of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver Fernando Alonso 26 June 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin is proud to announce Valiant; an ultra-exclusive track-focused, road-legal special edition of extraordinary rarity, presence and potency and is the latest in a long line of extraordinary projects expertly handled by in-house bespoke division, Q by Aston Martin. Powered by a 745PS Twin Turbo 5.2-litre V12 mated to a six-speed manual transmission, Valiant embodies Aston Martin’s commitment to building pure driver’s cars. Production is strictly limited to just 38 cars globally with all fully allocated. Valiant was originally conceived from a personal commission from Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver, Fernando Alonso for a lightweight, more extreme, race car inspired version of the spectacular, Aston Martin Valour. Following the commission and taking inspiration from Fernando’s 23-year career in Formula 1® and his passion for driving at the limit, Valiant was born, as a strictly limited-edition special that has been carefully designed and crafted by the experts in Aston Martin’s bespoke division: Q by Aston Martin. Aspiring to offer the ultimate in bespoke personalisation services, Q by Aston Martin delivers both carefully curated special editions such as Valiant and Valour, as well as the opportunity for individual owners to embark on the creation of utterly individual sports cars like Victor. Valiant continues a strong lineage of Aston Martins that deliver true driving intensity both on-road and on-track with the ultimate hypercar, Valkyrie, the brand’s most focused sports car, Vantage and its brother in speed, the Vantage GT3 race car and of course the upcoming mid-engine supercar, Valhalla. While both Valour and Valiant take inspiration from the brands iconic heritage in their design, they sit firmly in Aston Martin’s modern performance future delivering class leading power, driving dynamics and cutting-edge technology, ensuring Aston Martins appeal to true driving connoisseurs. Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver said: “Valour was a spectacular celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, and stirred me to create a more extreme, race car inspired version that was track focussed, while also delivering a thrilling drive on-road. Valiant is born from my passion for driving at the limit and I have enjoyed working closely with the Q by Aston Martin team on both the design and technical specification and believe we have created a masterpiece.” Combining the brutal style and blistering performance of a bygone evocative era of brutal V12 performance with state-of-the-art contemporary engineering, lightweight materials and spectacular design, Valiant pushes the boundaries of performance and engagement to evolve, intensify and reimagine the ultimate Aston Martin driver’s car. One born to thrive on the racetrack and thrill on the road. Speaking of the new Valiant, Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer of Aston Martin said: “Valiant is a modern masterpiece. A creation of Q by Aston Martin, inspired by a racing legend and conceived using the latest F1® inspired technology, exotic materials and obsessive weight reduction. It focusses on placing the driver in a truly unique, intense and emotional driving experience. The ultimate blend of performance, track-focused dynamics and hypercar intensity, Valiant embodies Aston Martin’s determined commitment to build rare and extraordinary cars for true drivers”. As the new pinnacle of ferocious front-engined Aston Martin limited edition specials, Valiant has been developed to deliver its best on-track, while remaining fully homologated for road use. It boasts an exotic specification to delight the purist and excite the most demanding driver. Crowned by the combination of Aston Martin’s incredible twin-turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 engine – which now develops 745PS and 753Nm of torque – and six-speed manual transmission, Valiant also features standard-fit Carbon Ceramic brakes measuring 410mm x 38mm front and 360mm x 32mm rear for immense fade-free stopping power. Valiant features a number of unique engineering highlights to reduce weight and dial-in the chassis for serious track use. The adoption of a 3D-printed rear subframe saves 3kg with no reduction in stiffness, while a magnesium torque tube reduces mass at the centre point of the car by 8.6kg. Lightweight 21” magnesium wheels – with 275/35 front and 325/30 rear tyres – improve steering response and wheel control, reducing unsprung mass by 14kg. A motorsport-spec lithium-ion battery has been fitted to save a further 11.5kg. The most influential change in the character of Valiant comes from the fitment of Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, capable of simultaneously adjusting each damper to one of thirty-two discreet damper curves in less than six milliseconds, the ASV system is truly state-of-the-art suspension technology that provides Aston Martin’s engineers with almost limitless scope for tuning ride and handling characteristics. The dampers offer motorsport-level damping control and an operating control bandwidth previously exclusive to the highest echelons of motorsport. The Multimatic ASV dampers are only found fitted to the most dynamic, most exclusive vehicles available and are not available in the aftermarket. To exploit the increased limits of the new suspension set-up and greater aerodynamic downforce, each of Valiant’s pre-set Driving Modes – Sport, Sport+ and Track – have been recalibrated to aid the driver in progressively exploring the car’s full…

Autocar Awards honour Volkswagen ID.7 and the brand’s design chief Andreas Mindt

Electric ID.7 named Best Saloon at 2024 Autocar Awards Judges describe the ID.7 as ‘subtle, restrained and classy’ Design Hero award for Andreas Mindt recognises 31-year career and the German’s instant impact when he returned to Volkswagen Milton Keynes – Volkswagen is celebrating two outstanding wins at the 2024 Autocar Awards: the ID.7 was named Best Saloon and the company’s Head of Design, Andreas Mindt, was honoured with the magazine’s prestigious Design Hero award. The ID.7 was praised for possessing no obvious weaknesses and offering a quiet confidence that is so often synonymous with Volkswagen cars. “This big electric car begs to be underestimated; it is subtle, restrained and – dare we say it – classy,” said the judges. “This is an electric saloon that makes few, if any, demands of its driver, combining superb road manners with intuitive driveability that makes any journey a cinch. It really is excellent.” The award for Andreas Mindt was a reflection of the German design maestro’s immediate impact since he re-joined the brand in 2023, and for a 31-year career that has spawned modern-day classics including the Volkswagen Golf Mk VII, the Audi e-tron GT – while spearheading a realignment of the brand’s exterior design – and the limited-run Bentley Batur, which helped chart the brand’s future electric models. Mark Tisshaw, Autocar Editor, said: “Andreas Mindt is sparking fresh life into one of the world’s biggest car brands. Upon his return to Wolfsburg in February 2023 he had just weeks to pen the ID. 2all, a machine that neatly balanced modern design with retro flourishes and was incredibly well received. The concept was upbeat, friendly and infectiously enthusiastic – much like the man who led its design. “Andreas has had an immediate impact upon his return and Volkswagen cars are embracing the brand’s traditions without getting stuck in the past – which is why we have named him our Design Hero for 2024.” After collecting his award, Andreas said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Design Hero award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Together, we found a way to design the true Volkswagen, which is characterised by our design values: Stable, Likeable, and Secret Sauce. Our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating vehicles that resonate with our customers have driven us to achieve this milestone.” One of the biggest events on the automotive calendar, the Autocar Awards recognise the industry’s highest achievers, including heroes from the design, engineering and motorsport worlds, as well as the best cars people can buy in the UK in a wide variety of categories. Commenting on the awards, Volkswagen UK Director Rod McLeod said: “We are very pleased that Autocar – the world’s oldest, and one of the most respected, motoring titles – has presented Volkswagen and Andreas Mindt with these awards. “The ID.7 is our top-of-the-range electric car and encompasses everything that people love about Volkswagen. It offers luxury with engineering excellence and appealing everyday practicality, and it is leading the charge towards e-mobility. It is also fantastic news that Andreas has won the Design Hero award, which is so richly deserved.” (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.ukTwitter: @VWUKPress VW24042 TR/rp/mo

Kia EV9 wins big at 2024 Autocar Awards

Kia EV9 named ‘Best Large Car’ by influential car magazine Mould-breaking SUV ideal for families going electric, with six- or seven-seats, long driving range and rapid charging technology Design and capabilities of EV9 to inform future Kia products, including upcoming EV3 The Kia EV9 has been named ‘Best Large Car’ at the 2024 Autocar Awards, following its introduction to the UK market at the start of the year. The Autocar Awards are among the most illustrious in the automotive sector, each year recognising the best new cars and most influential brands and people in the industry. Kia’s latest flagship electric SUV impressing the magazine’s experienced panel of expert judges for its breadth of ability and the positive impression it leaves wherever it goes. Mark Tisshaw, Editor of Autocar, commented: “The EV9 is a like a car just landed from a sci-fi movie set. People stare at it on the street; they seek you out in shops and cafes to talk excitedly about it and to ask what it’s like. The positive effect that interest will have for Kia, as the reflected glory trickles down to more affordable price points, could cause yet another shift of gear for the company’s European growth curve – which is exactly what halo models are supposed to do.” Paul Philpott, President & CEO of Kia UK, said: “The EV9 is an incredibly important car for Kia, taking us into the large SUV segment for the first time. It’s currently one of the only true all-electric options for large families, and we have seen a high level of interest from a range of customers, including those looking to take their first steps into electrification. We’re honoured to receive this award from Autocar, and it will help our UK dealer network further support and inspire customers on their electrification journey.” This isn’t the first time that Kia has been named victor in the Autocar Awards. The mould-breaking EV6 won the ‘Best Electric Car’ award in 2022, and in 2023 Kia was named ‘Best Manufacturer’ for its impressive business growth and compelling overall range of cars, including the then-new Sportage and Niro. The EV9 has also proven a favourite among expert judges and juries, being named UK Car of the Year and World Car of the Year since its launch. The design and capabilities of EV9 are also informing the development of future Kia models, including the upcoming Kia EV3, a compact electric SUV due to launch later in 2024. The Kia EV9 is one of the most versatile new EVs on sale, offering a choice of six- or seven-seat configurations; a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive powertrains; and three comprehensively equipped trim levels. It is priced from £65,025 on-the-road, offering an electric driving range of up to 349 miles (WLTP Combined cycle)* from a single charge of its standard 99.8kWh battery, complete with ultra-fast charging capable of adding 154 miles in 15 minutes**. The EV9 also features Kia’s seven-year/100,000-mile warranty as standard, ensuring maximum peace of mind for customers.

Industry leaders and best new cars recognised in Autocar Awards 2024

Luca de Meo, Renault CEO, awarded top Issigonis Trophy at annual Autocar Awards Renault Clio, Ford Mustang and Cupra Born among models recognised in this year’s Awards Aston Martin’s Marek Reichman, Andreas Mindt of Volkswagen and David Moss of Nissan win top individual awards Toyota named Britain’s Best Manufacturer To find out more, visit: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/autocar-awards/luca-de-meo-wins-issigonis-trophy-autocar-awards-2024 The winners of the 2024 Autocar Awards have been announced, celebrating the best models, brands and talent in the automotive industry. The winner of the coveted Issigonis Trophy was Luca de Meo, CEO of Renault Group, for his role in shaping an exciting new future for Renault and for the leadership he has displayed in the wider European automotive industry. De Meo began his career at Renault before working at companies including Toyota, Fiat, Volkswagen and Seat. Returning to Renault in 2020, he has since affirmed the company’s commitment to decarbonisation and revitalised its financial competitiveness, spearheading a major range expansion, and notably leading the revival of the 5 supermini as an EV. Last year, de Meo also came out on top in the Autocar Business 100 Power List rankings after Renault broke its all-time margin record of 7% with a 7.6% result on profits of €2.12bn The Autocar Awards also honoured Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman. He was the recipient of the Sturmey Award, named after founding editor Henry Sturmey and given to an individual for innovation and achievement, in recognition of ten years of radical and exciting model developments, working on cars including the DB11, Vulcan and DBX. The Mundy Award for Engineering was won by Nissan Senior Vice President of Research & Development, David Moss. A familiar voice to F1 fans, Martin Brundle took home the Editor’s Award for his engaging coverage and enthusiasm for the sport, and Volkswagen’s Andreas Mindt was named Autocar’s Design Hero for his contribution to reinventing Volkswagen’s styling philosophy, particularly as the company moves further towards electrification. The evening also included Autocar’s Innovation award, won by underground automotive testing facility Catesby Tunnel, and the Outstanding Leader award, won by Mini’s Stefanie Wurst. Toyota, meanwhile, was named the Best Manufacturer. The Awards also recognised the best models available to UK drivers today. The Renault Clio was named Britain’s Best Small Car, the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato took Britain’s Best Driver’s Car, while the Cupra Born won the title of Britain’s Best Electric Car. Other cars recognised in the 2024 Awards include the Kia EV9 (Best Large Car), Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (Best Performance Car), BMW 5 Series (Best Hybrid), Volkswagen ID 7 (Best Saloon) and Ford Mustang (Best Dream Car). Mark Tisshaw, editor of Autocar, said: “The effect that Luca de Meo has had on Renault Group and on the wider industry makes him a worthy recipient of our top award. His foresight and business acumen have allowed Renault to flourish, and we are excited to see where he takes the company next. We are grateful to all of our winners for the profound effect they continue to have on an industry which is facing tremendous change and innovations.” Read the full story here: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/autocar-awards/luca-de-meo-wins-issigonis-trophy-autocar-awards-2024 Issigonis Trophy: Luca de Meo, Renault GroupSturmey Award: Marek Reichman, Aston MartinEditor’s Award: Martin BrundleMundy Award for Engineering: David Moss, NissanDesign Hero: Andreas Mindt, VolkswagenOutstanding Leader: Stefanie Wurst, MiniInnovation: Catesby Tunnel Britain’s Best Driver’s Car: Lamborghini Huracan SterratoBest Dream Car: Ford MustangBest Electric Car: Cupra BornBest Small Car: Renault ClioBest Large Car: Kia EV9Best Saloon: BMW ID 7Best Hybrid: BMW 5 SeriesBest Manufacturer: Toyota

MOKE International appoints Nick English as Executive Chairman

Nick English, the co-founder of Bremont Watches, is announced today as the new Executive Chairman of MOKE International English, who defied convention and scaled a British luxury watch company to unprecedented heights, now joins MOKE, a privately owned British business that has sold over 500 vehicles to date In 2022, MOKE became the first heritage automotive brand to go 100% Electric and is now in talks with strategic partners and investors as it moves into its growth phase London, 26th June 2024: MOKE International (MOKE) can confirm the appointment of Nick English, co-founder of Bremont Watches, as its new Executive Chairman, effective immediately. This strategic leadership change heralds an exciting new chapter for the iconic MOKE brand, which was established in 1964 and is celebrated for its distinctive blend of heritage and innovation. Moving into its growth phase, English joins at a pivotal time as MOKE progresses with strategic partners and investors to pursue further international advancement. Nick English, who famously co-founded Bremont Watches with his brother Giles, brings a wealth of experience in manufacturing and luxury lifestyle brands to MOKE. He remains a board director of Bremont, where he grew the business – that became synonymous with the repatriation and production of luxury mechanical timepieces on British shores – before handing over to new management as part of a strategic investment round, valuing the business at £100m. His vision and expertise will be instrumental in driving MOKE’s expansion and continuing its legacy of delivering exceptional and unique vehicles to freedom fighters in beautiful locations around the globe. Discussing his appointment, Nick English, Executive Chairman, MOKE International said: “I am thrilled to be joining MOKE International at such a pivotal time. The MOKE brand holds a special place in automotive history, and I look forward to working with the talented team to build on its legacy, continue and grow the manufacturing of the cars in the UK, and explore new opportunities for innovation and expansion. Isobel has done a fabulous job homologating the Electric MOKE for use in both USA and EU, and I’m much looking forward to building on that.” As part of this transition, Isobel Dando will be stepping away from her role as CEO, which she held for the past four years. MOKE International extends its heartfelt gratitude to Isobel for her contribution to relaunching the brand. She commented: “Hiring Nick is a real coup for MOKE. I am delighted to be handing over the reins to him; to further build on everything the team have achieved to date. He is passionate about British engineering – be it flying planes, making watches or driving cars – and, as a serial entrepreneur, I believe he has exactly what we need to further develop the business.” MOKE has raised $35m of investment to date, which it has deployed to reshore production to the UK, secure its trademark, and engineer and homologate the Electric MOKE in both the USA and Europe. It was the first electric vehicle with no roof or doors to achieve M1 Small Series approval in Europe and the first to be granted NHTSA and EPA approval in the US through the Low Volume Vehicle Manufacturers Act. The Electric MOKE is predominantly made of European parts and is manufactured in the UK. The success of MOKE attracted a bid for the business by EV Technology Group in 2022 in a deal valuing the shares at up to $120m, however MOKE International retained its independence and the proposed merger with Fablink, the manufacturing business, never materialised. With a waiting list of circa 800 orders worth over $25m, MOKE International and its board are excited about ramping up, and vertically integrating production in the UK. To find out more, join the waiting list for a genuine MOKE, or book a test drive, visit: www.mokeinternational.com For all interview opportunities with Nick English, the new Executive Chairman of MOKE International, please use the media contact listed below.