Škoda adds sporting edge to new Octavia range with most powerful vRS model ever and adds new SportLine model

Industry News

Fully updated Octavia vRS flagship model now produces 265PS (+20PS) Sharper performance; revised Octavia vRS available in hatch and estate Available from £38,670 OTR Striking exterior design package features gloss black trim and 19-inch wheels Improved levels of technology and equipment New 2.0 TDI 150PS engine option added to popular Octavia SportLine model line-up Order books for new vRS and SportLine models open on 14 August, 2024 Milton Keynes, 13 August 2024: A fully updated evolution of the Octavia vRS will be available to order from 14 August and available from £38,670 OTR. The sporting flagship of the revised Octavia range becomes the most powerful production Octavia ever offered by Škoda thanks to its revised 2.0 TSI engine that now generates 265PS. The new vRS will be joined by a new diesel-powered SportLine model as part of Škoda’s update of the Octavia line-up. As with its acclaimed predecessors, the new Octavia vRS will be offered in both hatch and estate forms with a single powertrain option in the form of an updated 2.0 TSI four-cylinder petrol unit. The engine, which comes from the same EA888 family as the unit fitted to Škoda’s championship-winning Fabia RS Rally2 car, has been further developed over its predecessor to deliver more power and torque. Peak power has risen by 20PS to 265PS while peak torque is now 370Nm. The revised engine drives through a seven-speed DSG automatic as standard and can propel the new model from 0-62mph in just 6.4 seconds (6.5 for vRS Estate). Despite its high power output, the Octavia vRS is remarkably efficient, with a WLTP combined fuel consumption figure of 40.8mpg (40.3 for vRS Estate). Power is delivered to the road via a VAQ electrohydraulic differential lock that ensures that the vRS has optimised grip coming out of corners and turns naturally under throttle without slipping the inside wheel. Both vRS models also feature a chassis lowered by 15mm to further improve driving dynamics. In terms of design, the updated, fourth-generation Octavia vRS features restyled front and rear bumpers and a new vRS logo on the radiator grille. The sporting flagship is further distinguished by a black radiator grille surround, side window trim and door mirrors. At the rear, the new bumper diffuser and tailpipes are also finished in black while the Estate comes with black roof rails as standard. Striking 19-inch Elias anthracite alloy wheels complete the exterior design package. Black also dominates the bespoke vRS Design Selection interior where the standard equipment includes a sporty three-spoke multifunction leather steering wheel and aluminium pedal covers. The sports seats are upholstered in fabric as standard and feature contrast red stitching as well as the sporty vRS logo etched into the backrest, and the seats also offer electrically adjustable lumbar support and massage function. Like other models in the updated Octavia range, the vRS comes with a large 13” infotainment system, 10” Virtual Cockpit and optional head-up display. Front seat passengers have access to fast-charging USB-C ports and a wireless charger with active ventilation. Rear passengers benefit from fast-charging USB-C ports, plus air-conditioning with its own rear-seat-only third zone. Other standard equipment on the new vRS models includes an electrically operated boot with virtual pedal, Keyless entry and start / stop and blind spot detection. The new vRS models will sit above the current SportLine models in the updated Octavia range. The popular SportLine range will also expand to include a new diesel variant, bringing the total number of powertrain options to three. Škoda’s acclaimed 2.0 TDI 150PS engine will be available from £35,775 and will join the existing 1.5 TSI and 1.5 TSI e-TEC petrol units. The new SportLine combines sporty looks with an efficient engine that has a WLTP combined fuel consumption figure of 60.6mpg (59.9mpg Estate). The model is equipped with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard and comes with the same sporty looks as its petrol-powered stablemates. All SportLine models come with 18-inch Vega Aero black alloy wheels, metallic paint and gloss black trim for the radiator grille, window surrounds, door mirrors and badging. The interior features a special SportLine Design Selection that includes sports seats, a black headlining and carbon-effect door inserts. Like the vRS, it will be available to order in both hatch and estate forms. Order books for the new Octavia vRS and SportLine 2.0 TDI 150PS models opens on 14 August, 2024. Octavia vRS Engine 0-62 mph Max speed (mph) OTR Hatch vRS 2.0 TSI 265PS DSG 6.5 155 £38,670 Estate vRS 2.0 TSI 265PS DSG 6.4 155 £39,775 Octavia SportLine Engine 0-62 mph Max speed (mph) OTR Hatch SportLine 1.5 TSI 150PS ACT 8.5 142 £32,255 1.5 TSI e-Tec 150PS DSG 8.5 142 £34,295 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG* 8.5 141 £35,775 Estate SportLine 1.5 TSI 150PS ACT 8.6 140 £33,285 1.5 TSI e-Tec 150PS DSG 8.6 139 £35,325 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG* 8.6 139 £36,805 *New engine More images, along with other media assets are available to download at www.skodamedia.com. – Ends – Contact Pietro Panarisi Head of PR & CommunicationsM +44 7814 674 661Pietro.panarisi@skoda.co.uk Charlotte Moss PR ManagerM +44 7748 111 959Charlotte.moss1@skoda.co.uk Clare Pleasants Press Fleet ManagerM +44 7931 642 330Clare.pleasants1@skoda.co.uk Hannah Sholl Events and Internal Communications ManagerM +44 7825 582 517Hannah.sholl@skoda.co.uk Škoda Auto is successfully steering through the new decade with the Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030. aims to be one of the five best-selling brands in Europe by 2030 with an attractive line-up in the entry-level segments and additional e-models. effectively leverages existing potential in important growth markets such as India, North Africa, Vietnam and the ASEAN region. currently offers its customers eleven passenger-car series: the Fabia, Scala, Octavia and Superb as well as the Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Enyaq, Enyaq Coupé, Slavia and Kushaq. delivered over 866,000 vehicles to customers around the world in 2023. has been a member of the Volkswagen Group for 30 years. The Volkswagen Group is one of the most successful vehicle manufacturers in the world. is part of…

The New Audi A5 range – UK pricing and specification confirmed

Industry News

New Saloon and Avant replace outgoing A4/S4 and A5/S5 model lines A5 Saloon prices from £41,950, S5 Saloon prices from £68,700 (OTR) A5 Avant from £43,850, S5 Avant from £70,600 (OTR) Sport, S line and Edition 1 specification options for A5 models S5 variants available exclusively with Edition 1 specification First Audi models to use new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) Introduction of a new generation of TFSI and TDI engines 48-volt MHEV plus system boosts efficiency in 2.0 TDI and 3.0 TFSI engines Latest E 3 electronics architecture powers technology advances including new Digital Stage, MMI front passenger display and head-up display Milton Keynes, August 13, 2024 – Audi is consolidating its perennially strong position in the premium mid-size segment with an advanced new A5 range that replaces existing A4 and A5 model lines from today in the UK. Powered by a new generation of ultra-efficient combustion engines, digitised using sophisticated new E 3 1.2 electronics architecture, and styled with Audi’s latest design language, the new A5 and S5 Saloon and Avant models are the embodiment of Vorsprung durch Technik. Priced from £41,950 (OTR) and £43,850 (OTR) respectively, the latest A5 Saloon and Avant ranges are now available to order, with the first examples due to reach UK customers in November. Both now adopt the A5/S5 designation to align with the new Audi naming convention, in which even numbers denote electrically powered models and odd numbers are assigned to vehicles with combustion engines. More generously proportioned and comprehensively equipped than their predecessors, they are the first Audi models to be built on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), and are positioned in the upper midsize segment. In the UK, all A5 variants will initially be available with a choice of Sport, S line and Edition 1 specification, while the S5 Saloon and Avant will be offered exclusively in Edition 1 form. Their more dynamic design is characterised by a low, sporty silhouette, short overhangs, slim greenhouses and Audi Ur quattro-style blisters framing large wheels. It lends both variants a more athletic appearance and, helped by the modified proportions, even greater presence and premium character. Inside, the approach is equally fresh, thanks to new Material Driven Design. As well as maximising the sense of generous space and the feeling of premium class comfort, this new approach prioritises connectivity, visual clarity and ease of use even more highly. At its heart is the Digital Stage, a curved, free-standing OLED panoramic MMI display integrating an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch screen. Fully equipped specificationsThe extensive equipment list for entry-level Sport versions establishes impressive foundations, with an array of new upgrades that enhance its appeal compared with outgoing equivalents, particularly where technology and connectivity are concerned. To complement the new digital stage, additional features include an app store within the Audi smartphone interface giving access to a wide range of popular third-party apps, and the Audi Assistant, a deeply integrated, self-learning and AI-supported digital voice assistant. The Audi Assistant can be used to vocally control numerous vehicle functions and is capable of recognising more than 800 voice commands. The impressively versatile driver assistance package has also been bolstered by an upgrade to adaptive cruise control and the introduction of the parking assistant plus, which aids parallel and perpendicular parking by taking care of steering, accelerating and braking during manoeuvres. S line versions are marked out externally by new rear-mounted red rhombus badging, and make an even more powerful impression with their striking S line exterior styling details, privacy glass and an upgrade from the Sport model’s 18-inch wheels to a 19-inch 5-twin-V-spoke design. Inside, a new three-spoke multifunction steering wheel flattened at the top and bottom accentuates the sporting theme, and complements more familiar S line hallmarks including ‘S’-embossed sport seats, stainless steel pedals, matt brushed aluminium inlays, illuminated aluminium ‘S’ door sill inserts and a black headlining. Reflecting its position as the top specification option in the A5 range, Edition 1 takes all the S line exterior characteristics and enhances them further with features such as 20-inch 5-arm fold Audi Sport alloy wheels, red brake calipers and a black styling pack, including black door handles, mirrors and, in Avant versions, roof rails. Matrix LED headlights, with eight different light signature options, also offer even more precisely controlled illumination than the standard high-performance LED units in Sport and S line variants. Technology gains are also prominent in the Edition 1 cabin, where an additional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display is neatly integrated into the dashboard design to complement the Digital Stage. It enables front seat occupants to stream content and use infotainment and navigation features completely independently, and features a Dynamic Privacy Mode which ensures that it doesn’t distract the driver. Driver assistance and technology features Several additional driver assistance features also provide a further boost to safety and convenience. On Edition 1 models, they include a top-view camera, proactive occupant protection for the front, side and rear, a lane-change assistant capable of carrying out lane changes on multi-lane carriageways and aids for reversing out of perpendicular parking spaces and protecting the rear of the vehicle during turning. Everyday usability is also enhanced by features such as the Audi convenience key and keyless go and, on Edition 1 specification, the addition of electric adjustment for the diamond-stitched sport seats, which are upholstered using a combination of artificial leather and Dinamica. This sustainable microfibre material incorporates a high proportion of recycled polyester, and also covers other interior elements. In the transition to the flagship S5 Saloon and S5 Avant models, the Edition 1 specification adopts even more features that have recently enriched the Audi technology portfolio. An external highlight is the upgrade from LED rear lights pro including dynamic rear indicators and illuminated light strip to Digital OLED tail lights, which offer eight active, driver-selectable digital light signature options and feature a new communication light displaying integrated warning symbols to alert other road users to hazards. Inside, extras include…

Naran prototype to make UK debut at Salon Privé

Industry News

Salon Privé 2024 at Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL London, UK, August 13, 2024: Naran’s debut prototype – a stunning, four-seater hyper-coupe – will make its UK debut at this year’s Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace on August 28-31. British manufacturer’s first model will break cover at Blenheim Palace on August 28-31 Style and striking sophistication characterise stunning four-seater hyper-coupe Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, luxurious materials and exceptional quality of finish New, sleek hypercar promises up to 1,000bhp and 0-60mph time Unparalleled customisation on offer to owners of just 39 cars to be built, with even the distinction to name their own car Order book now open with deposits accepted for £2 million supercar The car made its world debut in Andermatt, Switzerland, in June, but its attendance at Britain’s most prestigious luxury automotive Concours, held in surroundings of unmatched grandeur, will be the first time the knowledgeable UK audience can view it. Naran’s debut vehicle was initially announced in 2021 and built in Germany before finishing in Coventry, UK. Company founder Ameerh Naran conceived it to be the perfect blend of an ultra-high-performance vehicle and an object of pure beauty. The first ever Naran model will be positioned on the lawn and members of the Naran team will be on hand to explain more about what promise to be incredibly rare vehicles – only 39 will be built and, with unparalleled customisation options available to owners including the chance to christen their own edition, each one will be a unique luxury creation. Naran founder and CEO Ameerh Naran said: “Our cars are about indulging our owners in unparalleled tailoring and visceral performance, offering them all the things they have always dreamed about in a vehicle, in an aesthetic, luxury and driving experience sense. “Our unprecedented customisation options mean our customers can even give their vehicle its own name. And, because the car has four seats, our owners can share their vision with others, too.” The car will produce up to 1,000bhp thanks to its bespoke 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering a competitive 0-60mph time. Those opting for a more race track-inspired aero pack, informed by the adjustable systems used in motorsport to enhance downforce, will benefit from an aerodynamic package promising a GT3-style driving experience on road and track. The car’s sleek lines and aggressive, motorsport-inspired styling were penned by Apollo IE and De Tomaso P72 stylist Jowyn Wong. It is formed of composite panels bookended by dramatic, hinged clamshells at each end. Inside, the opulent materials featured include premium CNC-milled billet aluminium and tri-hue minimalistic soft-touch textiles and leather, although owners will be able to specify an unmatched range of different materials, styling and finishes. Owners can also choose to tailor the car’s exterior, whether turning heads with its style and elegance on public roads or opting for a more aggressive, performance-led aero pack. The launch prototype model boasts a plush, ruby-themed exterior finish and cockpit with delicate almond gold accents. The upper environment features ruby-woven textile, while the lower surfaces are finished in leather. The two materials combine to upholster the carbon-shelled seats. Coated in the same ruby leather, the seats and steering wheel also feature almond gold stitching. On the floors, woven fabric and removable carpets in darker smoke and charcoal black hues ensure that the high-end feel of the interior is carried through even into the footwells. Meanwhile, the centre console and feature panel feature stone grey and black chrome accents and various other dashboard elements are finished with satin ruby and almond gold paint. Owners of the Naran will have an almost unlimited range of options available to them, with early requests including horse-hair, marble and granite effects, and gold leaf trim. Deposits of £300,000 are now being accepted to reserve an allocation.

Driving instructor waiting lists leave learners in the lurch

Industry News

Two thirds of instructors have a wait list, some over six months 70% of instructors say driving test delays are behind the backlog Pre-17 driving lesson bookings surge as learners look at ways to get ahead With recent figures showing there are still long waits for driving tests, new research has revealed that even finding a driving instructor might prove difficult for many learners. The UK’s largest pre-17 driving school, Young Driver, questioned 150 driving instructors, and found that two thirds (67%) currently have a waiting list for on-the-road lessons. Although the average wait time is two months, 7% said learners would be waiting over six months to get a lesson with them, and 15% said they had waiting lists of over four months. When asked about the main reasons for wait times, 70% of instructors said the lack of driving test availability was leaving learners in limbo for longer, meaning others were unable to start their learning-to-drive journey. Over half (56%) said things had never returned to normal post-Covid. One in four (27%) said there was a lack of driving instructors, and one in five (20%) felt the issue lay with youngsters needing more lessons to be able to pass their test. Young Driver has experienced a surge in bookings this year, as parents look to get youngsters learning to drive before they reach their 17th birthday, with over 50,000 lessons being delivered in the first seven months of 2024 – a 16% increase on 2023. Children as young as 10 can learn in dual control cars, with government approved instructors. They learn the basics of changing gear, steering and controlling the vehicle on private properties at venues across the country. Over 1.4 million lessons have been given since the scheme launched in 2009, and research shows early driver tuition can also dramatically reduce the accident rate for newly qualified drivers. Sue Waterfield at Young Driver said: “Driving is a key life skill. When we recently questioned 1,000 members of the public, 36% of people agreed it was vital, putting it in the top three life skills we should all have. So, it’s a real problem if our young people are finding there are barriers to getting behind the wheel – whether that be financial or practical, including lack of availability of lessons and tests. That’s why people are seeking our pre-17 lessons to start building those key skills ahead of time. “It makes sense to learn over a longer period, without the pressures of the real road. That way, when they get to 17, youngsters already know all the ‘below the dashboard skills’ so they have an advantage. That means they’re likely to need fewer on-the-road lessons and can start getting behind the wheel with mum or dad and building up their experience levels more quickly. We’ve had pupils who only needed 10 lessons when they reached 17, because they’d had lessons with us beforehand, and they were able to pass their test just weeks after their birthday.” The Young Driver survey also revealed that people felt driving opens up doors in terms of employment, education and socially. A third (34%) of non-drivers felt they’d missed out on opportunities because of their inability to drive. For more information about Young Driver, which operates at 70 venues across the country, go to www.youngdriver.com

Volkswagen T-Roc gains extra style and substance

Industry News

New R Black Edition tops T-Roc line-up in the UK Striking design pack enhances high-performance SUV Panoramic sunroof among additional equipment also included On sale from 15 August priced at £44,250 (OTR RRP inc VAT) Milton Keynes – The popular Volkswagen T-Roc is gaining additional style and substance with the introduction of the R Black Edition. It is based on the existing high-performance T-Roc R, but comes with a brooding and stylish design pack and additional equipment which, together, place it at the top of the T-Roc line-up in the UK. The design pack introduces black decorative trims and roof rails, black mirror housings and eye-catching black and diamond-turned 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels. Other enhancements over the standard T-Roc R include a rear-view camera, heated front seats, electronic tailgate and – perhaps most striking – a large tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof. Anyone who likes to sound as good as they look behind the wheel will be pleased to know that a Beats sound system with six speakers, digital eight-channel amplifier, subwoofer and 300 W total output also comes as standard. Performance under the bonnet delivers the same exciting numbers as the T-Roc R: the 2.0 TSI engine with 300 PS – coupled with a seven-speed direct-shift gearbox and 4MOTION all-wheel drive – powers the newcomer from zero to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds before going on to a top speed of 155 mph (where permitted). The Volkswagen T-Roc R Black Edition is available to order from Thursday 15 August priced at £44,250 (on-the-road recommended retail price, including VAT). At the same time, the price of the T-Roc R now becomes £43,000 (on-the-road recommended retail price, including VAT). (ends) 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 5ANwww.vwpress.co.ukTwitter: @VWUKPress VW24049 TR/mo/rp

Iconic electrified DeLorean DMC-12 to star at Salon Privé 2024

Industry News

Electrogenic DeLorean DMC-12 will electrify Salon Privé 2024 ‘Plug and play’ kit finally gives a drivetrain to match Back to the Future star car’s sci-fi looks. Electric conversion halves the DeLorean’s 0-60mph time Guests will have a rare opportunity to inspect the electrified automotive icon up close Salon Privé 2024 at Blenheim Palace to be held on 28-31 August 19th year of Salon Privé in 2024: ‘The UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party’ Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva runs on 28-31 August 2024. Tickets available at https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/ An electrified DeLorean DMC-12 is to be one of the star cars at Salon Privé 2024 after internationally renowned EV technology company Electrogenic confirmed its attendance at the world-famous Blenheim Palace summer season spectacular. The iconic hero car of the Back to the Future films “now finally has the sporting performance its futuristic shape always deserved,” with Electrogenic’s custom ‘plug and play’ EV conversion kit transforming the 1980s supercar. It offers more than 150 miles of real-world electric motoring and can use the latest CCS rapid chargers for speedy top-ups. The DeLorean DMC-12, the vision of former GM executive John DeLorean, was designed in partnership with Lotus, built in Belfast, and launched in mid-1981. Boasting dramatic wedge styling and crowd-pulling gullwing doors, the composite-construction car’s headline feature was its stainless-steel bodywork, guaranteed not to rot. The tech has stood the test of time; remarkably, three-quarters of the 9,000-plus DeLoreans built are still on the road. The low-tech Renault V6 engine was always the weakest link of the DeLorean DMC-12. Strangled by catalysts to meet strict US emissions regulations, it produced just 130hp, meaning performance was infamously tepid. Electrogenic’s drop-in conversion, which is fully reversible, replaces the lukewarm V6 engine with an electric motor producing nearly 220hp. This motor drives a fixed-ratio gearbox that drives the rear wheels. It has a 43kW battery pack, which is fitted in place of the fuel tank under the front luggage compartment and above the electric motor in the rear. Performance is transformed. The petrol-powered DeLorean huffed and puffed to 60mph from rest in just over 10 seconds; the Electrogenic DMC-12 takes under 5 seconds. It is the first Electrogenic car to have launch control, too. There is instant torque and ample power reserves at any speed on the move. It also has adjustable regenerative braking and selectable drive profiles, from range-enhancing ‘Eco’ to ultra-sharp ‘Sport’. Given its starring role in Back to the Future, the EV has fittingly futuristic extra features, too, including touchscreen Apple CarPlay and a bespoke virtual dashboard that displays drive modes, battery usage, and charge status. The air conditioning system has been enhanced, and the EV system has vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, so owners can charge a laptop, power a fridge, or even charge another car on the go. Electrogenic CEO Steve Drummond says the DeLorean DMC-12 is set to be a sure-fire star of Salon Privé 2024. “Our engineering team has been blown away by the response it gets from the public; it generates interest and excitement like nothing else. You’re constantly being stopped by DeLorean fans asking for pictures or wanting to take a closer look at the car. It’s clear that the DMC-12 holds a special place in the hearts of many.” Salon Privé Director David Bagley said: “The world-famous DeLorean is always a huge draw, and this incredible development from Electrogenic creates arguably the finest DMC-12 ever. The engine was always its weakest link, so replacing it with a powerful, long-range electric drivetrain arguably turns it into the high-tech sci-fi car it should have been. “That Electrogenic is a British firm based just up the road from Blenheim Palace in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, makes its appearance at Salon Privé 2024 even more fitting. I can’t wait to see the reaction to this fantastic development, which our guests from the UK and internationally will find fascinating.” Salon Privé Week 2024 27 August – Salon Privé MotorAvia 28 August – Salon Privé Concours presented by Aviva Private Clients 29 August – Salon Privé Concours Awards presented by Aviva Private Clients 30 August – Salon Privé Style Friday presented by Boodles 31 August – Salon Privé Supercar Saturday and Club Trophy presented by Lockton Tickets can be purchased via the website: www.salonpriveconcours.com Charity PartnerSalon Privé are proud to support the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC). By supporting NSPCC, we hope to make a lasting impact on the lives of children in raising much needed funds to support its life changing services. Donations from the event will go towards supporting the NSPCC’s mission to protect children from abuse and neglect, providing vital services and support to those who need it most across the UK and Channel Islands. Media AccreditationEventageous PR Ltd. Rebecca Leppard – PR DirectorT: 01452 260 063M: 07749 852481E: rebecca@eventspr.co.ukW: www.eventageouspr.co.uk For all event information, please visit https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/You can also follow on Facebook: @salonpriveuk / Instagram: @salonpriveuk / Twitter: @salonpriveuk

Audi UK PR & Communications update – media notice, not for publication

Industry News

Not for publication Milton Keynes, August 12, 2024 – Audi UK PR and Communications is delighted to welcome Jane Halsey to the department to take on the role as Lifestyle and Corporate Communications Manager. Jane joins the team as maternity cover for Camilla Foster as she leaves at the end of August. Jane brings with her 20+ years of PR experience, having worked most recently at CUPRA but also before that for a motorsport team and another premium German car brand. It is actually full circle for Jane, as she started out at Audi UK working for the supplier who handled the press fleet before coming inhouse, so she is well aware of all aspects of the role and has excellent relationships with many media. Gavin Ward, Head of PR & Communications, said: “Audi is number one in terms of lifestyle PR compared to its competitors, and this is in no small part to the efforts of Camilla and the management of her team. I am delighted then to be able to appoint someone of Jane’s experience and capability to Audi so that we can build on all the good work thus far and continue with excellent media partnerships and lifestyle activations, not to mention the work involved in the Audi ambassador programme.” Contact details for the wider team are available at the bottom of the page. Jane will manage lifestyle and corporate communications, assisted by Julie Greenburg and Aurelie Bayley. Your other key points of contact remain the same, with Johnny Burn handling all product and business queries and Louise Vukomanovic and Michelle Betty handling all things press fleet and Royal Household. All of the Audi events programme incorporating media as well as retailer, investor, and customer events, is overseen by Anastasia Vadera, supported by Kirstin Hutchinson, Nathalie Southerden, Ashlea Downie and Jordan Green.

Driving for work – Are you Safe2Drive?

Industry News

Safe2Drive, a Glasgow based business set up by industry road risk experts, Allan Gibbons, Scott McLennan and Sinead Moy are pleased to learn that they have been shortlisted for two Glasgow Business Awards The awards, run by the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, is an annual celebration of the city’s business community and all it has achieved during the last year. Safe2Drive have been shortlisted for two categories. The Glasgow Business Award for Best Use of Digital TechnologyThe Glasgow Business Award for Innovation in Business The 17-category winners will be announced at a black-tie event on the 3rd October at Double Tree by Hilton Glasgow Central and is organised in partnership with the University of Strathclyde Allan Gibbons, Managing Director of Safe2Drive, commented “We are over the moon to have been shortlisted in the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Awards. “The shortlist is testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in our risk management business. The detailed intricacies of our work are crucial to ensure businesses, and their drivers remain legally compliant and help keep our roads and road-users safe.” The Safe2Drive founders built their business with their 25 years plus knowledge of the sector and offer a best-in-class bespoke system that bridges the shortfalls identified in the marketplace.

Peak Analogue® arrives in the USA: the 355 by Evoluto® is heading to Monterey Car Week

Industry News

Global public debut during the exclusive Monterey Car Week opening event, Motorlux The 355 by Evoluto® to take part in dynamic shakedown and real-world road testing in California First customer cars begin their restoration in Q1 2025 August 12th, 2024, United Kingdom:Evoluto Automobili has arrived in Los Angeles, marking the brand’s first visit to the USA. Ahead of the global public debut during Monterey Car week of the 355 by Evoluto®. While in Los Angeles customers have been invited to an exclusive private viewing of the car ahead of first production beginning in Q1 2025. The 355 by Evoluto® is the first remastered icon from the brand. Bringing together the best in British design and engineering to create a modern-day Peak Analogue® driving experience. Blending modern engineering with the passion for engaging driving. A team of 250 petrolheads have brought this car from concept, through feasibility, CAE Simulation, Detailed Engineering, Chassis Development, Design for Manufacture, ready for production assembly. While in America, the 355 by Evoluto® will begin its final dynamic road testing ahead of the first customer cars beginning their transformation. The DRVN Advanced Engineering team using advanced computer aided simulation have designed, set, and engineered the dynamic targets of the car. Real world testing will validate the simulation and ensure that customers experience Peak Analogue® driving, as the vehicle’s dynamics and suspension are finely tuned and crafted for enhanced handling and tactile, communicative feedback and performance. Along with computer aided dynamic target setting, the location of the bonded structural carbon panels not only increased the tortional stiffness of the car by 23% but also increased the body efficiency by 13%, these were all targeted changes made to improve how the car handles on the road. While in Monterey the 355 by Evoluto® will be attending:– Motorlux – The Ultimate Car Week Kick Off – Wednesday 14th August– The Preserve Concours & Cocktails – Hosted by Luxury Rally Club – Thursday 15th August– Exotics on Broadway – The largest single day free event – Saturday 17th August Be sure to also look out for the 355 by Evoluto® attending car meets all week in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach, and Monterey. Iain Muir, CEO, DRVN Automotive Group, commented “It is with immense pleasure that the Evoluto team can share our car with the most important annual collection of petrolheads on the West Coast of the USA. Having seen the reaction from our VIP guests at Goodwood Festival of Speed and in Los Angeles, I cannot wait to see the reactions in California. Peak Analogue® is our passion and we believe Monterey Car Week is the perfect place to share that ethos for the first time in the USA. We will be back to see East Coast petrolheads very soon.” The car will be joined in Monterey by DRVN Group CEO, Iain Muir, and Technical Director Amjad Ali. Both will be available for interview throughout the week. Please contact Communications Manager, Rob Borrett with interview requests for an exclusive audience with the car. Further information available at www.evolutoautomobili.com

The stars in your own car – Brits’ ideal holiday companions revealed

Industry News

Clarkson to do the driving, Kay, Fry and Mortimer for the stories New research has revealed the celebrities with whom the British people would most like to share a UK holiday journey. Of the famous names known for their driving or love of cars, Jeremy Clarkson is the nation’s top choice to get behind the wheel, with TV and sports stars, along with a particular royal, also among the favourites. The research, carried out for Kwik Fit, the UK’s leading automotive servicing and repair company, also asked people who they would like to join them as fellow passengers to ensure the journey was a happy one. Peter Kay, comedian and star of the TV sitcom ‘Car Share’, came out on top, followed by two other TV stars loved for their broad knowledge and variety of stories – Stephen Fry and Bob Mortimer. The research found that although there is agreement between men and women on their favourite driver, the top five varies between the sexes. Jeremy Clarkson is top choice for both men and women, with David Beckham and Lewis Hamilton also in both top fives. However, the rest of the top five differed, with men choosing comic actor and car fanatic Rowan Atkinson and Clarkson’s long time co-presenter James May. Women opted for style and prestige, with James Bond star Daniel Craig and Princess Anne completing their top five. The nation’s favourite holiday driver – the top five Favourite holiday drivers – top five choices Chosen by: All adults Men Women 1 Jeremy Clarkson Jeremy Clarkson Jeremy Clarkson 2 David Beckham Rowan Atkinson Lewis Hamilton 3 Lewis Hamilton David Beckham David Beckham 4 Rowan Atkinson Lewis Hamilton Princess Anne 5 Princess Anne James May Daniel Craig As with the choice of driver, Kwik Fit found that men and women are aligned when picking their favourite passenger to keep them entertained. Peter Kay is the top choice for both, perhaps appropriate after he created the award winning sitcom Peter Kay’s Car Share, based entirely on the hilarious conversations between two work colleagues during their car journeys. Men opt for people known for storytelling in their top four choices, with Kay joined by Stephen Fry, and comedians Bob Mortimer and Frank Skinner. Their top five is completed by Harry Potter actress Emma Watson. The research found that women are more likely to want to spend some of their journey enjoying music with their top choices more geared towards singers. Adele, Ed Sheeran and Stacey Solomon join Peter Kay and Stephen Fry in their top five. The nation’s favourite holiday car sharers Favourite holiday companions Chosen by: All adults Men Women 1 Peter Kay Peter Kay Peter Kay 2 Stephen Fry Stephen Fry Adele 3 Bob Mortimer Bob Mortimer Stephen Fry 4 Adele Frank Skinner Ed Sheeran 5 Ed Sheeran Emma Watson Stacey Solomon 6 Emma Watson Ed Sheeran Bob Mortimer 7 Claudia Winkleman Dua Lipa Rylan Clark 8 JK Rowling JK Rowling Harry Styles 9 Stacey Solomon Adele Claudia Winkleman 10 Frank Skinner Davina McCall Emma Watson While there were many consistent favourites throughout the country and across different age groups, there were some notable differences. The choice of Scots suggests many of those north of the border are looking for some excitement on their holiday journey. Their top pick for holiday driver is actor Jason Statham, known for his roles behind the wheel in a variety of action films including The Transporter and The Italian Job. Although Peter Kay was top choice of passenger for most people, he lost out to Ed Sheeran in the singer’s home region of Eastern England, as well as in Northern Ireland. In London, Kay didn’t make the top five, despite his sell out residency at the O2. Top spot in London goes instead to local girl Adele. Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “It’s been fun to see who the nation would choose as their driver and fellow passengers to ensure happy journeys this summer holiday. The choices give an indication of how we like to spend our time in the car – sharing stories and songs – but we don’t need celebrities with us to do that. “While it might be nice to imagine handing over driving duties to a celebrity, the reality for most of us holiday motorists is that we are ultimately responsible for the happiness of our passengers. As well as making sure they’ve got the right audiobooks and music downloaded, drivers mustn’t forget to make all the pre-travel checks on their car. The one sure fire way to remove any happiness from a holiday journey is to end up stranded on the hard shoulder.” For advice on pre-travel car checks, drivers can find a wide range of information at kwik-fit.com and can also book a free vehicle health check. For the latest news and updates from Kwik Fit, customers can also follow the company on Twitter at @kwik_fit. Notes to editors1 – Research carried out by Opinium among a nationally representative sample of 2000 UK adults – 28 June – 2 July 2024 About Kwik FitEstablished in 1971, the Kwik Fit Group is one of the largest independent automotive parts, repair and replacement specialists in the world. Kwik Fit has over 600 service centres across the UK, as well as a nationwide fleet of mobile tyre fitting vehicles, and specialises in tyres, brakes, exhausts, MOT and servicing. Details of its range of products and services can be found at kwik-fit.com For further information please contact: Brandon StockwellGullwing CommunicationsTel: 07768 747907Email: brandon.stockwell@gullwingpr.com