Maserati GT2 Stradale. World premiere of new super sports car at Monterey Car Week 2024

Industry News

Also on stage at The Quail are the MC20 Icona, on display for the first time in North America, and the MCXtrema, featuring at Laguna Seca with the delivery of the first model Monterey, CA, 16 August 2024 – Its name is Maserati GT2 Stradale, the new super sports car by Maserati receiving its world premiere at the 2024 Monterey Car Week in California.On Friday 16 August, the car was unveiled to the public gathered for the unmissable annual event in the renowned US resort, in the prestigious setting of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, the highlight of the motorsport week dedicated to connoisseurs and enthusiasts. Maserati GT2 Stradale is an ode to the most extraordinary and exclusive sportiness, the result of a technical and stylistic partnership between the Maserati GT2, a masterpiece of performance created for the brand’s return to GT competitions, and Maserati MC20, an iconic Trident car imbued with an unmistakable style. Starting from an already excellent basis, Maserati has developed a car that can combine the best of the brand’s racing and mass production, transferring the hallmarks of the track model and ensuring a further evolution of its most beloved super sports car. The Maserati GT2 Stradale combines in-depth technology transfer of the purest performance, typical of a racing car, combined with the intrinsic qualities of the MC20. The new super sports car thus evokes style and racing performance, while ensuring an ideal feeling and comfort in all conditions of use, without sacrificing the best driving experience on the road, typical of Maserati’s offering. With a top speed of over 320 km/h, maximum output increased to 640 hp (10 hp more than the MC20), a weight decreased by 60 kg and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, Maserati GT2 Stradale promises unparalleled sensations and superior performance, partly thanks to its sophisticated aerodynamics and attractive design inherited from its racing sibling.At the wheel, the feeling will be one of driving one of the most incredible track cars there is, with the opportunity to make the best of it on roads all over the world. The leading features of Maserati GT2 Stradale are the wide range of options, the opportunities for customisation with packages dedicated to improving performance, the quest for a bolder aggressive aesthetic, the exclusive Fuoriserie content, and the specific configurations (availability varies between markets). Davide Grasso, Maserati CEO: “Maserati GT2 Stradale is a unique product, bringing together as it does the brand’s greatest sporting heritage, and at the same time representing evolution of one of Maserati’s most iconic vehicles, the MC20 halo car. This model intended for everyday driving was created based on the desire to offer our customers more and more in terms of technical mastery, innovation, design and emotions in road driving: on the one hand, we find sophisticated solutions reserved for models designed for track use only, the epitome of Maserati’s racing DNA; on the other, we can guarantee optimal comfort paired with all the most advanced driver assistance systems. Maserati GT2 Stradale is a product that can fulfil the requirements of the most discerning enthusiasts, a new creation that expresses the brand’s entire essence.” At the world premiere of the Maserati GT2 Stradale at The Quail, two other spectacular Trident cars were also present: MC20 Icona, making its North American debut, and MCXtrema, featuring at Laguna Seca in an event dedicated to the delivery of the first model of Maserati’s ‘beast’ on the track. Unveiled in June this year, the MC20 Icona is a special series created to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the brand’s return to the track in the GT championships, with the unforgettable and victorious MC12. Produced in a limited edition of 20 units, in its characteristic Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale livery, the MC20 Icona is a tribute to a Maserati of the past beloved by fans of production cars with a competitive nature, the 2004 MC12 Stradale: with the 12-cylinder Ferrari-derived engine, it represented Maserati in its most extreme performance form and was created specifically for type approval in international GT competitions. In 2024, MCXtrema is back on stage at The Quail to follow its 2023 world premiere and is preparing for another exclusive event to mark the delivery of the first of the 62 models produced worldwide – on 18 August at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Made and type-approved for track use only, with its 730 hp of power and bold, refined design, MCXtrema was immediately conceived as an unconventional product: a super sports car dedicated to a selected clientele that is extremely discerning in terms of performance and technical excellence. Maserati MCXtrema is now the Italian brand’s most powerful track car, an exciting vehicle car from all points of view that is destined to dictate the pace of Maserati’s future, elevating its racing spirit. Maserati S.p.A.Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally. Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. The top of the range is made up of the MC20 super sports car and the MC20 Cielo spyder, powered by the ground-breaking 100% Maserati Nettuno V6 engine, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. The GranTurismo is available with both…

New Venom F5 ‘Stealth Series’ Celebrates Extreme Personalization

Industry News

Hennessey’s ultra-limited Stealth Series pairs exceptional craftmanship with extreme performance +$3m ‘Hypersonic Blue’ Stealth Series F5 confirmed as final Revolution Roadster build Stealth Series trio sold out ahead of Monterey Car Week public debut Images: New Hennessey Venom F5 ‘Stealth Series’ in ‘Elemental Green’ Sealy, Texas (Aug 16, 2024) – Hennessey Special Vehicles, the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer, has revealed the ‘Stealth Series’ – a new, ultra-limited trio of its 1,817 bhp Venom F5 hypercar. Celebrating intricate, skilled craftmanship and the finest, most elaborate individualization options, just three models are to be built to the exclusive Stealth Series specification. Only available on track-focused Revolution models, the Stealth Series balances exposed carbon fiber, in black and tinted forms, with painstakingly hand-painted body panels. Unique to the Stealth Series, the exposed carbon fiber runs from the nose-mounted ‘H-badge’ down the entire spine of the hypercar. The exposed carbon ‘reveal’ initially broadens to meet the windscreen before flowing over the roof and narrowing organically – past the engine cover for the 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged ‘Fury’ motor – right to rear deck’s trailing edge above the mid-mounted quad tailpipes. Beyond the meticulous engineering and construction of the car and its powertrain, each Stealth model requires around 2,350 manhours just to create the flawless carbon fiber body and chassis, with a further 650 to 750 manhours to complete each complex paint treatment. Craftsmen hand lay the cosmetic carbon fiber, hand-paint every exterior panel, painstakingly upholster every piece of the dash, seats, and doors, embroider the ‘Hennessey’ script, and include personalized ‘easter eggs’ – unique to each customer. Every detail is considered in the utmost detail by Hennessey’s design team, from using the finest hand-laid carbon fiber found anywhere in the automotive industry, to the imperceptible surface changes from exposed carbon, to paint, to accent color on the bodywork. Just three of the uniquely American models make up the ultra-exclusive series of Venom F5 hypercars. Part of the 99-car total Venom F5 production run, all three models sold even before the series was shown at The Quail, during Monterey Car Week. John Hennessey, company founder and CEO: “Everyone knows that the Venom F5 is the most extreme, powerful, and visceral pure-combustion hypercar in the world, but the real selling point for our customers is the craftmanship, quality, beauty, and attention to detail. Combining all these elements into the Stealth Series creates a unique art piece that celebrates the finest craftmanship alongside raw, visceral, unapologetic American horsepower.” Hennessey’s design team works closely with Stealth Series owners to curate a specification that will achieve immortality through careful, thoughtful personalization. For example, unique features on the Stealth Series specifications shown at The Quail include tinted carbon fiber inside and out, body color-matched brake calipers, and personal racing numbers ghosted into the carbon fiber. Nathan Malinick, Hennessey Director of Design: “In creating the unique specification for the limited-edition Venom F5 Stealth Series, we were inspired by the hypercar’s aerodynamic form and the beauty, authenticity, and craftmanship of its exposed carbon fiber. The Stealth Series is a ‘best of both worlds’ presentation of exquisite, exposed carbon fiber and world-class, impactful paintwork that accentuates the F5’s form.” Hennessey debuted the Venom F5 Stealth Series at The Quail on Friday August 16 during Monterey Car Week in California. The Hennessey display featured a Revolution Roadster and Revolution Coupe version of the Stealth Series cars with attendees able to soak up the quality and attention to detail in the Californian sun. While exact customer specification costs remain private, the complete build price for each Stealth Series car exceeds $3 million. The third Stealth Series model is a Venom F5 Revolution in coupe form. Distinguishing the track-honed Revolution from its regular Coupe sibling is a full-width rear-mounted carbon fiber wing, roof-mounted air scoop, a significantly larger front splitter and rear diffuser. The Revolution features reworked suspension, engine cooling, and digital telemetry alongside dive planes ahead of each front wheel that channel air to improve grip at turn-in. In March this year, a Revolution coupe confirmed the Venom F5’s status as ‘America’s Hypercar’ by setting a new production car lap record of 2:10.90 at Circuit of The Americas. The company then turned its engineering focus to a push towards the car’s +300 mph V-max, building on the 271.6 mph set during its development. Continuing its evolution, Hennessey set a production car World Record speed achieving 221.92 mph in the standing half mile. Design, specification, and assembly of each Venom F5 is carried out just 100 miles from COTA at Hennessey’s HQ in Sealy, Texas. Hennessey has already built and delivered 24 Venom F5 Coupe, Roadster, and Revolution models to customers across the U.S. and around the world with a further 16 orders booking out build slots through 2024 and 2025. Potential buyers can apply to own a Venom F5 at HennesseySpecialVehicles.com. Alternatively, interested parties can call Hennessey on +1 979 885 1300, or contact the company’s network of U.S. and international retailers.

Automobili Pininfarina Battista Targamerica: the world’s first coach-built electric hypercar delivered to a client

Industry News

Battista Targamerica is the first one-off coach-built model from Automobili Pininfarina delivered to a client World’s first coach-built electric hypercar, and latest example of the brand’s promise ‘Dream Cars. Made Real.’ A star attraction at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering during Monterey Car Week, then being delivered to its commissioning client Design team worked intimately with the client to curate every detail, including personalised elements such as the cigar humidor Battista Targamerica name co-curated with the client to reference its open-top body style and new permanent home Coach-built masterpiece offers unique open-top driving experience through redesigned carbon fibre bodywork and monocoque Battista Targamerica retains the breath-taking performance of Italy’s most powerful road-legal car Images available to download here (MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA – 15 AUGUST 2024) Automobili Pininfarina has removed the covers – and the roof – from a unique one-off car, Battista Targamerica, the world’s first coach-built electric hypercar delivered to a client. Battista Targamerica will receive its world premiere at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering as part of this month’s Monterey Car Week, the perfect venue for such an exclusive piece of automotive art. A design masterpiece, it is the first client-commissioned coach-built car from Automobili Pininfarina, and as such exemplifies perfectly the brand’s philosophy of ‘Dream Cars, Made Real.’ Commissioned by a renowned car collector and existing Battista owner, the design team worked intimately with the client to inspire and create an extensive list of personalisations that help it stand out as a one-off design and technical statement. Hand-built by the atelier’s artisans in Cambiano in collaboration with Pininfarina SpA, it is a complete expression of its owner’s personality reflecting their individuality and history, their tastes, interests and unique life story. Immediately following the event, the car will take pride of place within one of the world’s finest private and highly curated collections of rare, classic and modern performance car icons. Battista Targamerica features a striking silver and blue colour scheme along with a meticulous re-engineering of the body to suit the roofless profile and deliver a unique open-top driving experience. It also incorporates elements of Automobili Pininfarina’s award-winning PURA design philosophy, a futuristic vision of timeless luxury. In common with every Battista, it is a unique, hand-crafted masterpiece and a reflection of the client’s personality. Paolo Dellachà, Chief Executive Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, said: “This is a seminal moment, delivering our first coach-built one-off vehicle to a client. Battista Targamerica, like no other vehicle before, demonstrates the infinite possibilities our highly skilled team can design and engineer. Our world-class artisans have delivered something truly special – the first electric open top hypercar designed specifically to a very exacting client’s own specification.” Many details of Battista Targamerica were inspired by one of the most famous one-off cars designed by Pininfarina – the 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Spider, created for Gianni Agnelli to mark his 20 years as Chairman of Fiat. The car was a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, just like Battista Targamerica. The stunning silver exterior finish enhanced with subtle blue and black detailing of the profile is a clear tribute to the Testarossa Spider, as are the horizontal feature lines of the rear luggage opening on Battista Targamerica. The new car was commissioned during the 2023 Monterey Car Week, with development of this coach-built masterpiece, from conception to delivery, taking exactly one year and underscoring the painstaking diligence of the artisans at Cambiano. The vehicle contains several elements personal to the client, referencing their life and achievements. A unique feature is its cigar holder and humidor, a completely customised element built directly into the cabin between the two seats. This bespoke aluminium and glass case exemplifies the elegant fusion of luxury with technology, embedded within the vehicle’s DNA as a reflection of its owner’s lifestyle and a statement of the vehicle’s truly personalised nature. As a demonstration of the attention to detail, the space – which can hold up to three cigars – is back-lit and illuminated to match the corresponding colours of the five driving modes: Calma, Pura, Energica, Furiosa and Carattere, which are Green, Iconica Blu, Orange, Red and Yellow respectively. Even the car’s name, Battista Targamerica, was a collaboration between the client and the design team, referencing its roofless body style as well as the country in which the car will be based. Dave Amantea, Chief Design Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, said: “The Battista Targamerica is at the frontier of design. An exceptional vehicle that stands at the vanguard of performance and luxury. The gauntlet was thrown down for us to create something that uniquely represents the personality of this vehicle’s owner. This is the service we provide to clients, and the team has more than delivered. The result is our first coach-built one-off vehicle, a Targa that bears the badge of Automobili Pininfarina. Battista Targamerica will forever stand as a one-of-its-kind vehicle and will never be repeated.” In keeping with the rarity of the vehicle, while retaining signature Automobili Pininfarina elements, the exterior is delivered in a pure, striking, silver Argento Liquido Gloss, detailed with Iconica Blu Gloss accents along the bodyside and aero wings in front of the rear wheels. The rear underwing is hand-finished by an Automobili Pininfarina artisan, painstakingly painting Iconica Blu pinstripes the full width of the wing as a demonstration of the attention to detail. The exterior look is completed with one-off, ceramic-polished five-spoke alloy rims with contrast black anodised aluminium centre caps. This is complemented by the brushed and anodised jewellery pack, with bespoke one-off door plates. Inside, Battista Targamerica is upholstered in supple tan leather, with a contrast black leather steering wheel and dashboard. The headrests are bespoke, featuring an embossed Automobili Pininfarina ‘F’ logo, alongside unique décor and design details specific to the owner. A bespoke tailored luggage set has also been specified, finished in the same tan leather as the upholstery and embossed with a Battista Targamerica silhouette. Such attention to detail guarantees that this coach-built one-off both reflects and complements the owner’s busy…

Mattel, AirConsole, and BMW Group announce World Premiere of UNO® Car Party! for In-Car Gaming

Industry News

UNO® Car Party! will begin rolling out to over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles through AirConsole starting August 21st Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market. Mattel, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAT), AirConsole, and BMW Group announced today that Mattel’s classic card game UNOTM will be revealed next week for in-car gaming in Cologne, Germany at gamescom 2024, the world’s largest, leading event for video games. Visitors to the AirConsole booth (Hall 10.1, Stand B028 – C029) will be the first to experience UNO® Car Party! in the new BMW X3, which tailors the world’s #1 card game* for in-car gaming. The game will roll out via the AirConsole platform to over 500,000 BMW and MINI vehicles over-the-air on August 21st. “We continue to increase the value of the overall digital experience for our customers,” said Stephan Durach, Senior Vice President of the BMW Group Development Connected Company and Technical Operations. “Our partners AirConsole and Mattel are helping make in-car gaming into a new social experience, and I am thrilled to offer a family-favorite game like UNO for this exciting innovation.” Mattel, AirConsole and BMW Group have transformed UNO into a playable connected game in a brand-new environment: the car. Whether a family is at rest during a road trip or a group of friends stop to figure out their next move, stationary drivers can use AirConsole’s unique game controller system to connect any passenger to the game using their personal devices. Up to four players can experience the game that brings people together through its simple, universal gameplay that transcends languages and cultures. Vehicles must be in park to enable gameplay. “UNO beautifully illustrates the strengths of AirConsole with a game accessible to everyone, a bespoke integration to the car hardware and our phone-controlled gaming experience,” said Anthony Cliquot, CEO of AirConsole. “Each player can secretly see their own cards on their phone while playing on the infotainment system of the car. This is an experience that would be impossible to achieve using only touchscreen or bluetooth controls on the infotainment system.” “UNO is perfect for in-car gaming because it’s highly engaging and brings people together,” said Erika Winterholler, Head of Business Development, Digital Gaming at Mattel. “Its simple rules are easy to learn and endlessly captivating, making it ideal for both short pit stops and extended play sessions. UNO’s social nature turns every journey into a fun experience, and we’re so excited to bring this spirit to consumers in an innovative way with our partners at BMW and AirConsole.” Since 2022, the partnership between the BMW Group and AirConsole has been pioneering in-car gaming, bringing intuitive and innovative gameplay to BMW vehicles through the AirConsole platform. Its selection of games has grown since the introduction of AirConsole, with popular games such as “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”, which launched as an in-car world premiere in collaboration between Sony Pictures Television, BMW Group and AirConsole. AirConsole is available in current models with BMW / MINI Operating System 9 in combination with BMW Digital Premium / MINI Connected Package and with BMW Operating System 8.5** in combination with BMW ConnectedDrive Professional. Over the past five decades, UNO has maintained its legacy as a game with wildly unpredictable fun, spirited competition, and inclusivity. UNO continues to surprise and delight fans through innovative offerings from top-line physical products, mobile games, live gaming events and premium collective card games; inclusive gameplay through products like UNO Braille and culturally relevant product from fan-created UNO memes to the UNO Artiste series featuring the artwork of artists from yesterday and today. *Source: Circana/Retail Tracking Service/G10/JAN-DEC 2023/Games Excl Trade Card Game Subsegment/Projected USD **Available in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, USA. In Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Thailand, South Africa, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia only available with Personal eSIM and BMW Operating System 8.5. Not available in BMW 2 Series Coupe, 3 Series and 4 Series.

Charging infrastructure is the tip of the iceberg as shortage of electric vehicle technicians continues to be a sinking ship

Industry News

BRITISH AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY CEO, LAWRENCE WHITTAKER, OF LEADING AFTERMARKET WARRANTY COMPANY WARRANTYWISE, ADVISES UK GOVERNMENT TO FIX EV TECHNICIAN SHORTAGE OR RISK INCREASED REPAIR WAIT TIMES AND COSTS, LEADING TO EV DISSATISFACTION. Comment from Lawrence Whittaker, CEO at Warrantywise:“Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grace our headlines, whether it’s a comment on the perceived lack of EV charging infrastructure, confirmation of increased road tax for EVs alongside the government-mandated ban on internal combustion engines and worries of EV-specific insurance cost increases. That’s just the tip of the iceberg as far as I can see – we’re still running head-first into one of the most concerning skills shortages we might see in the 21st century; the lack of trained TechSafe EV technicians. “Why am I standing on my soap box again now, after I shouted from the rooftops in March 2022 and September [2023] last year? Well, the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) issued yet another worrying report* showing that there’s still a huge skills gap of trained EV technicians, risking EV uptake and driver satisfaction. “Their [IMI’s] latest EV TechSafe certification data shows only 58,800 technicians are now qualified to work on electric vehicles, representing just 24 per cent of the UK automotive workforce. That’s not enough when you consider that there are over 1,190,000 fully electric cars on UK roads**. However, based on the forecast increase in EVs on UK roads, the IMI is currently predicting a shortfall of 3,000 technicians by 2031. The gap is expected to reach 16,000 by 2035 according to this most recent report. Moreover, it’s not just the lack of technicians, but where they’re located in the UK, that seems to be the new concern. “The IMI is also calling it a ‘postcode lottery’ for EV skills, meaning that there’s a lack of skills being distributed up and down the UK. One worrying state was that while London and the South East have the higher proportion of EVs, the regions don’t have a larger proportion of EV-certified technicians to look after them. Just 6.1 and 6.4 per cent of technicians in London and the South East respectively are EV-trained. Alarming when you consider that plug-in electric vehicles make up 5.9 per cent of all cars in London and the South East. For further context of the disparity, the East of England has the highest rate of EV qualifications (9.5 per cent), while Northern Ireland has the lowest rate (3.7 per cent). “Without enough qualified TechSafe EV technicians, I believe the rapid adoption of electric vehicles could stall, leading to safety risks, delayed repairs, and stunted growth in the EV industry. As demand for electric vehicles surges, the pressure on the industry to train and certify technicians is mounting, making this shortage a critical bottleneck that could undermine the transition to greener transportation. That sounds severe, but as our maintenance option for internal combustion engine vehicles continues with our plans for vehicles up to 15 years old, and older with our classic car plans, our aim is to always provide the best levels of service for all our customers. This is why I continue to highlight the issue with EV technicians and emphasise the need to focus on our EV ecosystem. “The implications of this skills shortage extend far beyond just vehicle maintenance. As electric vehicles become more complex, with advanced software, battery systems, and high-voltage components, the expertise required to service and repair them goes beyond what traditional automotive technicians are trained to handle, hence having to go through a stand-alone TechSafe training. “As I reflect on this, from a Warrantywise business perspective, keeping in mind the need to provide a seamless repair system for our customers, I’m concerned about potential delays and increased repair costs. With high demand and a limited supply of these skills, repair services for EVs are likely to be more expensive and take longer to complete, especially compared to those for petrol or diesel cars, due to the shortage of trained technicians. “As we [Warrantywise] provide warranty cover on all [EV, hybrid, petrol and diesel] used vehicles, which will continue beyond 2040, it’s crucial to ensure we maintain the same level of service and maintenance for all our customers, regardless of how the vehicle is powered [EV, hybrid, petrol and diesel]. I’m also concerned that the shortage of TechSafe EV technicians could hinder the adoption of electric vehicles. If this issue persists, we could see a slowdown brand new EV purchases after the current UK 2030 ICE ban. To that end, it’s essential for governments and industry leaders to recognise that investing in a skilled workforce is as important as investing in the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles. Without a well-prepared workforce, even the most ambitious EV adoption plans could stall. “To address this looming crisis, a coordinated effort is required. Educational institutions, automotive companies, and governments must collaborate to develop and fund programmes that can quickly train a new generation of EV technicians. This includes updating the curriculum to include the latest EV technologies, providing incentives for students to pursue careers in this field, and ensuring that current technicians have access to upskilling opportunities. Only by taking proactive steps now can we hope to build a robust and sustainable support system for the electric vehicle revolution. That extends far beyond just upfront EV pricing and charging, and into investment into a skilled workforce to service and maintain them for the future. The industry relies on us having TechSafe technicians, now and into the next phase of EV sales.” For more information about Warrantywise’s plans, visit www.warrantywise.co.uk –ENDS– Notes to editors: Source of data:*3,000 EV technician shortfall predicted by 2031**EV market stats 2024 About Warrantywise:Warrantywise is one of the UK’s leading used car warranty providers. Established in 2000, Warrantywise offers the most comprehensive extended vehicle warranties, for all makes and models of all ages. Warrantywise provides extended car warranties for both private owners and independent dealer groups. Cover includes unlimited repairs, car hire, onward travel, parts and labour…

MG Cyberster steals the spotlight as ‘Best Sports Car’ at The British Motor Show

Industry News

MG Cyberster wins ‘Best Sports Car’ at the 2024 Best Cars of the Year Awards EV roadster celebrated for outstanding performance, style and sustainability MG Cyberster to be showcased at The British Motor Show in Farnborough, England, from 15-18 August MG’s all-electric roadster, the Cyberster, has been awarded the title of ‘Best Sports Car’ as it takes up its position on the Best Cars of the Year stand at The British Motor Show, which runs from 15-18 August. The MG Cyberster was praised by the international judging panel for its innovative design, strong sustainability credentials, and electric performance, making it a standout winner in its category. The Cyberster also impressed with its high level of comfort and its technologically advanced cabin, featuring a wrap-around three-screen cockpit that places the driver at the centre of a contemporary, cutting-edge experience. Commenting on the award, Mike Rutherford, Founder and Chair of the Best Cars of the Year Awards, said: “Those who have already seen the bright yellow Cyberster on the Best COTY stand on the opening day of The British Motor Show this week will confirm the car somehow looks even better, classier and more handsome in the flesh than it does in photographs. “Starting at under £55,000 it offers truly unbeatable value for money. It looks like a supercar – but is in the same price league as some comparatively dull hatchback EVs from rival manufacturers.” David Allison, Head of Product and Planning at MG Motor UK, said: “The journey of the MG Cyberster, from concept to reality, has been met with overwhelming excitement. The positive reception from both the media and our customers has been incredible. We’re honoured to receive such high praise from the ‘Best Cars of the Year’ judging panel.” The MG Cyberster combines uncompromising power and performance with a refined design that honours the brand’s sporting heritage while embracing cutting-edge EV technology. Available in both single and dual motor configurations, the Cyberster delivers exceptional performance, with the dual motor Cyberster GT boasting an impressive 503PS (375kW) and 725Nm (535 lb ft) of torque. Multiple drive modes offer a customisable driving experience, from relaxed motorway cruising in Comfort mode to a thrilling drive with enhanced power in Sport or Supersport mode. The all-wheel-drive GT accelerates from 0-62mph in just 3.2 seconds, making it MG’s fastest production car to date. The 77kWh battery delivers up to 316 miles of range (276 miles for the GT), with rapid charging up to 150kW enabling a charge of 10-80% to be delivered in only 38 minutes. Starting at £54,995 OTR, the MG Cyberster comes with a comprehensive 7-year, 80,000-mile warranty and is available at select dealers across the UK. For more information about the award-winning MG Cyberster please visit mgcyberster.co.uk To learn more about MG’s electric vehicle lineup or to find your nearest dealer, visit www.mg.co.uk.

Bus investment grows again with greenest rollout in Europe

Industry News

UK NEW BUS & COACH REGISTRATIONS15 August 2024 (data for Q2 2024) Hi-res charts available via Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ygf80m7jph8ky263tygam/AJOvxHH0SuWu-jaQJfghFe0?rlkey=hw1ez7fh0rk2itykytv78xcy9&st=1wdej2lr&dl=0 British bus market rises by 61.7% in fifth consecutive quarter of growth. Double deck and minibus demand doubles, with more modest growth for single deck buses. Zero emission buses now a quarter of all new registrations – sustaining the UK as Europe’s biggest market for the greenest buses. Thursday 15 August, 2024 The number of new buses, coaches and minibuses joining Britain’s roads increased by 61.7% to 1,826 units in the second quarter of 2024 as the country’s bus sector posted its fifth consecutive quarter of growth, according to new figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). A continued rise in year-on-year demand since the start of 2023 reflects the gradual return of operator confidence following a period of sharp decline during the pandemic, when ridership levels fell dramatically. The recent growth, however, owes a large part to government measures to stimulate demand, notably though the Bus Fare Cap Grant.1 Growth in the quarter was driven by a doubling in demand for new minibuses, up 97.2% with 903 vehicles providing crucial transport services across the country, from schools to social care and third sector organisations. Deliveries of new double decker buses also grew two-fold, up 100.5% to 387 units while new single deck bus uptake rose by a more modest 12.1%. Every UK nation except Scotland saw growth, with fleet renewal in England up 69.6% to 1,557 units while demand in Northern Ireland rose by more than half (54.8%) to 48 units. The largest increase was in Wales, with rollout up more than seven-fold to 116 units after just 12 were registered during Q2 last year. Conversely, uptake in Scotland fell by -36.0% to 105 units compared with a particularly strong Q2 last year.2 More operators also made the switch to zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) with new registrations of the latest, greenest buses up by a third (36.3%) to 424 units during Q2 2024. As a result, the UK continues to sit at the very front of the European green bus transition as the largest ZEV bus market by volume in Europe, followed by Italy, Germany and France.3 Net zero commitments from government have been crucial, including England’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Area funding and the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund – helping almost a quarter (23.2%) of all new vehicle purchases to decarbonise in the first half of 2024. With buses now leading Britain’s road vehicle decarbonisation – helped by a less complex transition than cars, vans and trucks, given buses have depot-based, circular and consistent routes – the bus fleet could reach net zero before any other vehicle sector. Zero emission uptake is uneven between different UK nations and regions, however, with smaller and rural bus operators facing particularly acute challenges to fund the purchase of a new vehicle and its required infrastructure. SMMT’s latest position paper Next Stop, Net Zero: The Route To A Decarbonised UK Bus Market sets out the need for a clear timetable to put every region, operator, driver and passenger on the journey to net zero – with long-term, accessible support for fleets of all sizes. The gains are significant, giving everyone equal access to mass green mobility and the benefits it provides – from improved local air quality and lower noise pollution to a more enjoyable customer experience. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “A boost in uptake of new buses which provide mass mobility across the nation is also a boost for our economy and society, given the vital role these vehicles play – from commuting and staycations to transport for schools, charities and health and social care. At the same time, fleets continue to go green in rising numbers and, with suitably ambitious incentives and infrastructure is in place, buses and the communities which depend on them could be the UK’s first to reach net zero.” Notes to Editors ­ 1 UK government quarterly bus statistics: www.gov.uk/government/collections/bus-statistics2 Scotland registered 164 units in Q2 2023, up 150.0% year-on-year.3 ACEA data for Q2 and H1 2024, www.acea.auto/cv-registrations/new-commercial-vehicle-registrations-vans-15-trucks-3-buses-28-6-in-h1-2024/ About SMMT and the UK automotive industryThe Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the largest and most influential trade associations, representing the automotive industry in the UK. The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy, integral to growth, the delivery of net zero and the UK as a global trade hub. It contributes £93 billion turnover and £22 billion value added to the UK economy, and invests around £4 billion each year in R&D. With 198,000 people employed directly in manufacturing and some 813,000 across the wider automotive industry. Many of these automotive manufacturing jobs are outside London and the South-East, with wages that are around 13% higher than the UK average. The sector accounts for 12% of total UK exports of goods with more than 140 countries importing UK produced vehicles, generating £115 billion of trade in total automotive imports and exports. The UK manufactures almost every type of vehicle, from cars, to vans, taxis, trucks, buses and coaches, as well as specialist and off-highway vehicles, supported by more than 2,500 component providers and some of the world’s most skilled engineers. In addition, the sector has vibrant aftermarket and remanufacturing industries. The automotive industry also supports jobs in other key sectors – including advertising, chemicals, finance, logistics and steel. More detail on UK Automotive available in SMMT’s Motor Industry Facts publication at www.smmt.co.uk/reports/smmt-motor-industry-facts/ Broadcasters: SMMT has an ISDN studio and access to expert spokespeople, case studies and regional representatives. SMMT media contacts Paul Mauerhoff 07809 522181 pmauerhoff@smmt.co.uk James Boley 07927 668565 jboley@smmt.co.uk Rebecca Gibbs 07708 480889 rgibbs@smmt.co.uk Scott Clarke 07912 799959 sclarke@smmt.co.uk Emma Butcher 07880 191825 ebutcher@smmt.co.uk

HGV market holds steady as rigid uptake rises

Industry News

UK NEW HGV REGISTRATIONS 15 August 2024 (data for Q2 2024) Hi-res charts available via Dropbox: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/2lu6oosxxxn26zldqr4jj/APhKuhQOaEbbHxYt-FlQWyY?rlkey=9nxjcslnlmynn9qkmzp762070&st=samgytan&dl=0 UK new heavy vehicle market grows 2.6% in Q2 as overall uptake stabilises following bumper 2023. Rigid demand rises 9.7% and takes greater share of registrations as market continues to normalise. Zero emission truck uptake rises 30.0% in the quarter but still only 0.6% market share. Thursday 15 August, 2024 New heavy goods vehicle (HGV) registrations rose 2.6% in Q2 2024, reversing the decline recorded in the first quarter of the year, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Spring saw 11,469 new HGVs enter service, with growth driven by a rise in rigid truck uptake as the market continues to normalise following the fulfilment of pent-up demand in 2023. Rigids rose 9.7% in Q2 to reach 6,640 units, taking a 57.9% market share, up from 54.2% in the same quarter last year. Conversely, artic volumes declined by -5.7% to 4,829 units. The weighting of the market towards rigids was reflected in the composition of the top body types, with businesses investing more in box vans (up 17.3%), curtainsiders (up 14.9%), tippers (up 11.4%) and refuse vehicles (up 14.1%), while tractor unit volumes fell -7.4%. Nationally, England took the lion’s share of new HGV registrations, with volumes rising 1.6% to reach 9,827 units. Northern Ireland recorded the largest growth, up by 30.6%, which saw it overtake Wales to become the UK’s third largest HGV market. Zero emission vehicle (ZEV) uptake also continued to grow, buoyed by ever-expanding choice. Uptake rose by 30.0% to achieve a 0.6% share of market, up from 0.4% in Q2 last year. However, market share remains low compared with the car and van sectors1, demonstrating the ongoing challenge in convincing operators to switch from fossil fuels. With just over a decade to go until the end of sale of non-ZEV HGVs weighing less than 26 tonnes, operators continue to face a grant system that is lengthy and covers fewer than half of all available models. Progress on the rollout of HGV-specific charging facilities also remains lacklustre. Reforming the grant, plus investment in infrastructure within a national plan, would provide more confidence to operators and encourage greater uptake. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “The truck market’s return to growth after a slower start to the year demonstrates its robustness and resilience – particularly as overall uptake continues to keep pace with last year and the pent-up demand that fuelled volumes. The UK’s place as Europe’s second largest zero emission truck market also demonstrates Britain’s potential to be a leader in the ZEV truck transition. Delivering that ambition, however, requires compelling incentives and infrastructure which will put operators on a confident path to 2035 and beyond.” Notes to Editors ­ 1 BEV H1 2024 market shares: Cars 16.6%; LCVs 4.7% About SMMT and the UK automotive industryThe Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the largest and most influential trade associations, representing the automotive industry in the UK. The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy, integral to growth, the delivery of net zero and the UK as a global trade hub. It contributes £93 billion turnover and £22 billion value added to the UK economy, and invests around £4 billion each year in R&D. With 198,000 people employed directly in manufacturing and some 813,000 across the wider automotive industry. Many of these automotive manufacturing jobs are outside London and the South-East, with wages that are around 13% higher than the UK average. The sector accounts for 12% of total UK exports of goods with more than 140 countries importing UK produced vehicles, generating £115 billion of trade in total automotive imports and exports. The UK manufactures almost every type of vehicle, from cars, to vans, taxis, trucks, buses and coaches, as well as specialist and off-highway vehicles, supported by more than 2,500 component providers and some of the world’s most skilled engineers. In addition, the sector has vibrant aftermarket and remanufacturing industries. The automotive industry also supports jobs in other key sectors – including advertising, chemicals, finance, logistics and steel. More detail on UK Automotive available in SMMT’s Motor Industry Facts publication at www.smmt.co.uk/reports/smmt-motor-industry-facts/ Broadcasters: SMMT has an ISDN studio and access to expert spokespeople, case studies and regional representatives. SMMT media contacts Paul Mauerhoff 07809 522181 pmauerhoff@smmt.co.uk James Boley 07927 668565 jboley@smmt.co.uk Rebecca Gibbs 07708 480889 rgibbs@smmt.co.uk Scott Clarke 07912 799959 sclarke@smmt.co.uk Emma Butcher 07880 191825 ebutcher@smmt.co.uk

Swift awarded Best Affordable Hybrid by Best Cars of the Year

Industry News

The new Swift Hybrid went on sale just three months ago and Suzuki is very pleased to announce that it has been awarded the Best Affordable Hybrid 2024/2025 by Best Cars of The Year. The judging panel awarded new Swift as clear winner of its category thanks to its standard hybrid technology across the range, low running costs with combined fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg and, most importantly, its affordable price of well below £20,000. Mike Rutherford of Best Cars of The Year comments: “Suzuki has to be applauded for making every model available as a hybrid – at a time when consumers are increasingly attracted to this affordable, highly flexible petrol-electric tech. “Throw impressive Japanese build quality, a great dealer network and a sub-£20,000 starting price into the mix and it’s no wonder the little Swift appealed to our judges. It’s a car for the real-world.” Customer orders for new Swift have already passed 3,700 units, proving once again the strong popularity of Suzuki’s range of cars offering low cost of ownership, all the technology you need and hybrid as standard. New Swift is also available with optional CVT gearbox and Allgrip Auto 4×4 technology for customers needing additional traction during the winter in rural areas. The new Swift will be on display alongside the other category winners and the overall Best Car of The Year at the British Motor Show being held at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre. The British Motor Show opens to the public on Thursday 15th August through to Sunday 18th August. Strong Residual Values.A very important aspect to consider when buying a new car is what it will be worth when the time comes for a change and the new Swift Motion with CVT has been forecasted with a very strong residual value of 52% by industry leading specialists CAP HPI. This figure equates to a retained value of £10,200 after owning the car for four years and 40,000 miles. (CAP Forecast May 2024). Alternatively Swift Motion with manual transmission is just three per cent behind at 49% or £8,975 retained value over the same ownership period. Up to Seven Years Warranty.Low cost of ownership is also bolstered for all Suzuki customers with the inclusion of up to seven years warranty. This warranty is offered free of charge once the car reaches the end of its standard three year manufacturer warranty period and is then booked in for its next scheduled service within the Suzuki Dealer network. This warranty stays in place until the next qualifying service and is then simply renewed again up to a maximum vehicle age of 7 years / 100,000 miles – whichever comes first. As an enhancement to Suzuki’s well renowned product reliability record, up to seven years warranty offers ‘Peace of Mind as Standard’ as well as helping to secure customer retention within its network of new car dealers and authorised repair centres.

Ben to welcome new CEO, Rachel Clift, and thanks outgoing CEO, Zara Ross

Industry News

Ben, the automotive industry charity, is pleased to announce the appointment of Rachel Clift as its new CEO, effective from 1st November 2024. Rachel will succeed Zara Ross, who has served as Ben’s CEO since July 2016 and has now decided to retire. Zara Ross has been a pivotal leader in Ben’s history, steering the charity through significant transformation and growth over the past eight years. Zara’s tenure is marked by numerous accomplishments, including: Instigating significant strategic reviews with the Board of Trustees Navigating the organisation through some major challenges, including the Covid pandemic Minimising the impact of the Covid pandemic on the charity’s vital work and ensuring vulnerable stakeholders were safeguarded Establishing a culture of quality, support and innovation throughout the organisation Increasing efficiency through technological advancements Overseeing a major refit at Ben’s Town Thorns Care Centre. Zara’s vision and commitment have significantly shaped the direction of Ben, leaving a lasting legacy. The Board of Trustees extends its heartfelt thanks to Zara for her exceptional leadership and dedication. Whilst Zara will be leaving the role of CEO on 31st October 2024, she will continue to work with the organisation as Transfer Programme Director to support the transfer of care and village services to new operators, until that is finalised. After a rigorous recruitment process which included external applicants, Ben’s Board of Trustees appointed Rachel Clift (Ben’s current Health & Wellbeing Director) to the role of CEO. Rachel will formally assume the role from 1st November 2024. Rachel joined Ben in September 2018 and has significantly transformed its Health & Wellbeing offer to the industry, having almost tripled the charity’s reach and impact. Rachel’s proven leadership and dedication to the organisation make her ideally suited to guide Ben into its next chapter. Ben’s Board of Trustees has ambitious plans to further treble the charity’s impact by 2030, focusing on the growing health and wellbeing needs of those who work in the automotive industry. Under Rachel’s leadership, Ben is poised to further enhance its services and support thousands more industry people and their families. Steve Nash, CEO of The Institute of the Motor Industry and Chair of Ben’s Trustee Board, said: “We are confident that Rachel will bring the expertise, inspiration, drive, and leadership needed to steward Ben through its next strategic phase. We look forward to working with her to achieve our ambitious goals and continue to support the automotive industry, its people, and their family dependants. I would also like to say a heartfelt and personal thank you to Zara for her unwavering commitment to Ben over the past eight years.” Zara Ross said: “Being CEO of Ben for the past eight years has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. I have enjoyed leading such an ambitious charity which puts those we support at the heart of everything. I’m confident that I’m leaving the organisation in very capable hands – I have no doubt that Rachel will rise to the challenge, leading Ben to even greater things for the future. I will greatly miss my Ben colleagues, all Ben stakeholders and those in the wider automotive community – I wish you all the very best.” Rachel Clift said: “I’m thrilled to be assuming the role of CEO at Ben and I’m excited about leading the charity through its biggest phase of transformation yet. I would also like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Zara for her support and dedication, I and all of us at Ben wish her good health and happiness in her retirement. We look forward to revealing more about what’s next for Ben and our ambitious growth plans very soon.”