New record for NEV sales in China

Industry News

In the previous record month, 1.191 million new energy vehicles (NEVs) were sold in China at the end of 2023, primarily battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). Fuel cell vehicles currently only play a minor role in China, especially in the passenger car sector. However, after a weak start to 2024, the all-time record has now been broken even before the usual year-end rally – with 1.287 million NEVs in September. To illustrate the growth in China, it also helps to take a look at September 2023: Because that was also a record month back then, with 904,000 NEVs exceeding the 900,000 mark for the first time. In comparison, the result from September 2024 represents an increase of over 42 per cent. The approximately 1.1 million units from August 2024 were also significantly exceeded in September. The 1,287,000 new energy vehicles were split between 775,00 BEVs and 511,000 PHEVs in September, according to figures from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM). This means that the ratio has shifted back in favour of battery electric vehicles – BEV sales were still declining in July (to 551,000 units) before reaching their highest level of the year to date of 646,000 vehicles in August. 775,000 BEVs in September therefore represent a new annual high for battery electric vehicles. However, demand has not only increased for BEVs: Plug-in hybrids also set a new record, having already achieved this in July (438,000) and August (453,000). Compared to the same month last year, there was even an 84.5 per cent increase – 277,000 PHEVs were sold in September 2023. Plug-in hybrids are therefore playing an increasingly important role on the Chinese market and for Chinese manufacturers. Across all drive types, 2,809,000 vehicles were sold in China, a decrease of 1.7 per cent compared to the same period last year, but an increase of 14.5 per cent compared to August. This means that the NEV ratio in September was 45.85 per cent, compared to 44.8 per cent in August. To illustrate the overall development of the market: At the beginning of 2020, China still had an NEV ratio of less than five per cent. With these figures, the CAAM records the wholesale sales of car manufacturers, including sales in China and exports to overseas markets. However, the vast majority of these remain in China: 111,000 new energy vehicles (+0.9 per cent compared to August) were exported. Of these, 89,000 units were equipped with battery-electric drive systems, the rest were plug-in hybrids. The growth of the Chinese market can also be clearly explained using the example of BYD. The manufacturer was only able to sell more than 50,000 new energy vehicles in one month for the first time in mid-2021, but the 100,000 mark was then broken at the beginning of 2022. Another new record was set in September 2024, as BYD sold 419,426 NEVs – the fourth record month in a row. At BYD, the growth is due to the plug-in hybrids, which are now in high demand. At 164,956 units, BEVs ‘only’ increased by 9.1 per cent compared to the previous year, while PHEVs grew by 86.2 per cent to 252,647 units. In other words, almost half of all plug-in hybrids in September came from BYD. Tesla also set a new record in September: the US manufacturer sold 72,200 electric cars in China, surpassing the previous annual high from August (63,450 vehicles). The CAAM wholesale figures for Tesla even show 88,321 vehicles, of which 16,121 units were exported. Leapmotor sold more than 30,000 vehicles in September for the second month in a row. After a huge surge in sales in August, September saw an increase to 33,767 vehicles. Compared to September 2023, this corresponds to an increase of 114 per cent. Xpeng and Nio launch new subsidiary brands Xpeng sold 21,352 units (+39%) in September, which is also a new monthly record. The company had performed significantly worse in the previous months. There is a simple reason for the good September result: Xpeng was able to deliver over 10,000 Mona M03, the electric saloon developed jointly with Didi, in the first month alone. The familiar Xpeng models therefore remain roughly at the previous level – the new model, on the other hand, is in high demand. The coming months will show how long this boom will last. Xpeng was thus only just ahead of Nio, which reported 21,181 vehicles for September. Of these, 20,349 vehicles were attributable to the Nio brand and the first 832 to Onvo – where the company began its first deliveries at the end of September. It therefore remains to be seen how sales with Onvo will develop in the coming months. Zeekr ranks between Xpeng and Nio, with the Geely brand totalling 21,333 units. The situation is somewhat different at Xiaomi. The mobile phone company’s e-car division has so far only published exact sales figures for April and May – since June, it has only stated that ‘more than 10,000 units’ of the SU7 have been sold. However, a published bar chart shows continuous growth, even though no figures have been published since June. However, Xiaomi states that the factory wants to reach a production target of 20,000 units in October. Based on the bar chart, it can only be estimated that Xiaomi is ahead of Neta Auto. This is because Neta’s exact sales figure is 10,118 vehicles. This means that Neta’s figures are currently declining slightly: in August there were still 11,005 vehicles, in September 2023 there were even 13,211 NEVs – this corresponds to a decline of 23.4 per cent over the year. However, this is enough to keep it just ahead of Voyah. Dongfeng’s premium NEV brand sold 10,001 vehicles in September. In total, Dongfeng Motor Passenger Vehicle Company recorded sales of 25,544 vehicles in September. In addition to Voyah, the manufacturer also owns brands such as Nammi and Forthing – although no exact figures are known. cnevpost.com (CAAM), cnevpost.com (BYD), cnevpost.com (Tesla), cnevpost.com (Leapmotor), xpeng.com (Xpeng), nio.com (Nio),…

Melexis Launches World’s First 60W Single-Coil Sensorless BLDC Driver

Industry News

Tessenderlo, Belgium 17th October 2024 – Melexis announces the MLX90416, a 24V/60W sensorless single-coil BLDC driver specifically designed for motor, fan and pump applications across both consumer electronics and industrial domains. At present, many consumer and industrial devices, including electric fans, air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, water pumps and ventilation systems, use 3-phase BLDC motors with a driver IC or an AC induction motor. These solutions come with significant drawbacks: 3-phase BLDC motors are costly and complex, and AC induction motors lack efficiency and advanced features. The MLX90416 addresses these pain points by offering a cost-effective, highly efficient alternative that simplifies motor design and manufacturing processes. Melexis “No-Hall” technology, at the core of the MLX90416, removes the requirement for a feedback sensor and instead uses an integrated drive and feedback algorithm (BEMF), which provides quiet and vibration-free operation similar to that provided by 3-phase drivers. This shift in approach enables designers to relocate the BLDC driver outside of the fan body, independently from the magnet. This, in turn, allows for the utilization of a single PCB across multiple fan diameters, eliminating the need for redesign and resulting in a substantial reduction in manufacturing complexities, design efforts, and Bill of Material (BoM) costs. The MLX90416 incorporates everything needed to drive 24V fans with a peak operating power of 60W. It features plug-and-play, code-free setup, supported by a user-friendly GUI for seamless configuration, allowing for rapid deployment and adaptability across various applications. The driver offers support for bi-directional operation and features an advanced 8-point configurable speed curve. This functionality allows for precise tuning to address resonance and vibration concerns, something not possible with fixed-curve solutions. As an all-in-one solution, it offers higher reliability versus discrete sensorless solution, as well as reduced design efforts and packaging considerations. The MLX90416 provides PWM and FM modulation control, with I2C compatibility to further enhance its versatility. Suitable applications for the MLX90416 encompass various sectors, including white goods and consumer electronics such as fans, air fryers, ovens, and vacuum cleaners. Moreover, it extends to industrial systems like cooling fans and water pumps. Across any design, it contributes to lower costs, greater longevity and reduced component consumption, promoting product sustainability. “Melexis has a rich history with single-coil designs with our first product hitting the market in 1993. Now, over 30 years later, we are still leading the way with the MLX90416,” stated Xuanhong Ou, Regional Marketing Manager at Melexis. “This product brings real value to our customers, helping them to reduce development efforts and costs, while increasing the intelligence and digitization of their designs to the end-users’ benefit.” The MLX90416 is available now in a tiny DFN-10 package. To discover more, visit www.melexis.com/MLX90416 or contact us directly via www.melexis.com/contact Downloads Abstract for MLX90416 Product flyer for NoHall-series Fan drivers selection tool

Young journalists compete for Toyota-sponsored Guild Award

Industry News

Open to both Guild members and non-members aged under 30 years of age To be presented alongside the GOMW/MICA Young PR Professional of the Year Award sponsored by Meridian Audio Entries close 30th September Young journalists have less than a week left to get their entry in for the Guild of Motoring Writers Young Journalist of the Year Award, which is generously sponsored by Toyota UK. The GOMW Toyota Young Journalist of the Year Award will be presented alongside the GOMW/MICA Young PR Professional of the Year Award sponsored by Meridian Audio, at the Guild’s annual Dinner in London in December. The Young Journalist of the Year Award is open to all journalists aged under 30 – they do not have to be Guild members to qualify. Judges will be looking for work that exhibits a combination of thorough research and well-crafted journalism. The Award has seen some notable winners over the years who have gone on to make major contributions to the automotive media industry, not least 2020-22 Guild Chair Richard Aucock, the first winner and now a director of respected agency Motoring Research. Winner of the award in 2023 was Yousuf Ashraf of Evo magazine. Yousuf’s pieces were exceptional for someone of 23 years old, the judges feeling that he managed to transport the reader to living the experiences he was writing about with some truly riveting features. Full details of how to enter the award and the rules are on the Awards page of the Guild website at www.gomw.co.uk/awards – details of the requirements of all the other awards are also on the web page. Entrants will have until midnight on 30th September to make their entries. Three entrants will be shortlisted, each receiving a complimentary invitation to the black-tie Guild Dinner at the RAC Club in Pall Mall, London on Thursday 7th December, when the winner will be announced.

HORSE expands cutting-edge powertrain testing services in Brazil

Industry News

HORSE opens access for third-party manufacturers to its engine and emissions testing services at its Curitiba plant in Brazil First-of-its-kind service in South America allows in-depth powertrain calibration, durability and emissions testing Facility has the ability to run nearly 12,000 hours of testing and development programmes annually Engineers can evaluate powertrains in laboratory conditions or in real-world driving environments HORSE is a division of HORSE Powertrain Limited, a global leader in hybrid and combustion powertrain solutions across 17 plants and 5 R&D centres HORSE, a division of HORSE Powertrain Limited and a leader in innovative and low emissions powertrain systems, has announced that its cutting-edge engine and emissions services at its Curitiba plant in Brazil is now capable to support third-party automotive manufacturers. This facility will provide previously exclusive testing services to South American automotive brands. As one of the first of its kind in South America, the Curitiba testing facility features state-of-the-art equipment, laboratories, and workshops to meet the exacting automotive demands of the region. It provides specialised services including base calibration, durability testing, emissions testing for engines, and management of the Conformity of Production (COP) process. Wesley Palma, Plant Director at HORSE Curitiba, said: “It is hugely exciting to be opening the doors to our state-of-the-art testing facility in Curitiba. Featuring the latest engine dynamometers, emissions laboratories, homologation facilities and a team of dedicated engineers and technicians, this leading site provides a valuable resource for our clients across the region. Curitiba’s capability creates unrivalled opportunities to deliver tailored and efficient solutions for the specific demands of our customers in South American markets.” Cutting edge facilitiesThe Curitiba test facility features a number of cutting-edge technologies that allow HORSE to develop and homologate powertrains locally for critical South American markets. There are three engine test benches that use the latest equipment from established specialists each used for base engine calibration. Running in two-shift operations, the trio of benches have a combined capacity to run at 6,500 hours a year. Despite HORSE’s Curitiba plant being situated at an altitude of 920 metres, the engine testing area features an advanced pressurized chamber that allows technicians to simulate conditions at various heights, down to and including sea level. HORSE also has access to extensive test tracks and driving routes, allowing it to conduct powertrain evaluation under the widest variety of driving conditions and environments. Emissions testingAlongside this is a chassis dynamometer bench that is used for emission calibration development and final emissions homologation. Running on a four-shift cycle, this system has the capability to carry out testing for 4,500 hours a year. The chassis dynamometer facility also features a chemical laboratory that can measure and analyse aldehyde emissions that are a by-product of the ethanol fuel commonly used across the region. Crucially, the facility also meets the exacting ISO 17025 standards for testing and calibration laboratories. HORSE’s facility houses a vehicle evaporative test chamber for the complete detection and elimination of fuel vapour from development powertrains. Able to accommodate an entire vehicle, it allows engineers to evaluate the complete fuel system in operation. CO2 testing can also be carried out, both under laboratory conditions and during on-road driving situations. Using a Portable Emissions Measurement System (PEMS) that is attached to the vehicle and exhaust system, it is possible to accurately capture exhaust emission data in a real-world driving scenario. Combined with the extensive bench testing, it allows engineers to ensure powertrains can be tested and homologated under the latest Real Driving Emissions (RDE) standards. João Dias, Head of R&D Center at HORSE Brazil, said: “The Brazilian market has one of most rigorous criteria for testing emissions and fuel consumption in the world, including evaporative tests. We’re proud to now offer the market testing solutions that meet these standards, guaranteeing high quality and sustainable mobility.” HORSE: a leader in Innovative Power SolutionsHORSE was created to provide highly efficient, low-emission engines, transmissions and technologies to meet the varying power generation needs around the world. HORSE is a truly global company, with eight production plants across seven countries, three R&D centres and a head office based in Madrid, Spain. The company produces 3.2 million units per year for its customers around the world.

Leading the Charge: Trailblazer Alex Scott MBE to front BMW’s new Living with Electric Campaign

Industry News

BMW and Alex Scott MBE are leading the charge in stylish electric mobility. As a catalyst for positive cultural change, the ex-footballer, presenter and broadcaster will spearhead the new ‘Living with Electric’ campaign featuring the BMW iX2, underscoring the brand’s commitment to innovation and the widespread adoption of electro mobility. Alex exemplifies a rebellious spirit that the BMW iX2 champions. Renowned not only for her remarkable football career on and off the pitch but also for her influential roles in sports presenting, activism and fashion. A recent YouGov report revealed that there is extensive misinformation and a lack of knowledge[1] regarding electric vehicles (EVs). Specifically, women are being left behind, with only a fifth considering electric vehicles compared to a third of men[2]. To encourage widespread adoption, it is essential to broaden this approach to resonate more powerfully with a diverse audience. Leading by example, Alex will play a pivotal role in the Living with Electric multimedia campaign that documents her journey and transition to electric driving with the BMW iX2. Launched earlier this year, the first-ever BMW iX2 blends a new dynamic style, cutting edge technology, increased space and exceptional comfort, while offering up to 283 (WLTP)* of range on a single charge. With its striking front end and standalone design features, the BMW iX2 is designed for those who refuse to settle for the status quo – much like Alex. With unprecedented control over her own content, as director she will offer relatable, practical advice and an honest perspective on navigating EV ownership. The series will address her initial doubts and concerns, demystify common misconceptions about electric vehicles, provide information to drive positive change and cut through the jargon. Commenting on her involvement, Alex adds, “I hold my hands up, I wasn’t sure how an electric car would fit into my busy lifestyle, given the miles I travel and common concerns about charging. However, as someone who supports positive cultural change, I was eager to explore the possibilities. The BMW iX2 has completely transformed my perspective. It’s a joy to drive and fits seamlessly into my routine, with intuitive charging options at home or on the go. It’s powerful and offers excellent connectivity, which is crucial for my lifestyle. For me, this marks the start of a new era in driving and a way to make choices that contribute to a better future.” For more information about the BMW iX2 and expert advice from BMW on living with electric, visit: BMW.co.uk.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles celebrates double win at the 2025 Towcar of the Year Awards

Industry News

The Amarok was voted best ‘Pick-up’ at the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards Volkswagen’s Multivan retained ‘Large Family Towcar’ title for the third year in a row Awards are judged by an independent panel of expert reviewers Milton Keynes, UK (23 September, 2024) – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles had a successful visit to the 2025 Towcar of the Year Awards, with the Amarok voted best ‘Pick-up’ and the Volkswagen Multivan retaining the ‘Large Family Towcar’ title for a third consecutive year. The awards, now in their 42nd year, are judged by an independent panel of expert reviewers, awarding only the very best in their respective categories after putting thirty-three entrants to the towcar test. Taking home the ‘Large Family Towcar’ award for the third year in a row, the Multivan was praised for its spacious and configurable interior, comfortable drive, and car-like manouevrability which makes towing and reversing easy. Caravan and Motorhome Club said: “This is the third year running that the Multivan has walked off with a Large Family Towcar category win, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a great vehicle, being easy to drive and park, well-mannered on different road types and simply enormous inside. The interior can be configured in various ways, boosting flexibility too. The 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel is a good engine. If you need space, the Mulitivan can’t be beaten.” Alongside this, the Amarok was crowned winner of the ‘Pick-up’ category, after judges were won over by its impressive versatility, providing a functional, hard-working vehicle during the week, and a comfortable towcar for the weekend. With strong towing capabilities of up to 3.5 tonnes, the Amarok is designed to facilitate work and recreational requirements, both on and off-road. Commenting on the award, Caravan and Motorhome Club said: “Its upmarket looks are matched to an equally upmarket interior, which shows pick-ups don’t have to be unrefined and agricultural. It has good on-road manners, is hugely capable off-road, and tows with serious competency. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel is punchy, and the ride is decent when hitched.” For more information regarding Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, please visit: www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk (ends) About Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles:Over 70 years ago, the first Transporter arrived in the UK, creating a blueprint which others would follow: a van which gets the job done efficiently and reliably. Today, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a diverse model range of commercial as well as passenger carrying and lifestyle models – from the compact Caddy, the evergreen Transporter and sturdy Crafter panel vans, dropsides and tippers, through the Multivan passenger carrier, and Caddy California, new California and Grand California campervans, to the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo all-electric models, and the Amarok. The vehicles are as versatile and dependable as Volkswagens have always been, but the range is now wider, and more connected, modern and safer than ever. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is committed to working in partnership with individuals and businesses, providing them with the best products and aftersales support, whether they’re buying one or a thousand vans. For more information visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk Press contactVolkswagen Commercial Vehicles Press Team Laura Bignall 07557 758617Jess Bowden-Eyre 07734 855245Amy Allen 07983 535116 Press and Public RelationsVolkswagen Commercial VehiclesYeomans DriveBlakelandsMilton KeynesMK14 5AN Telephone 01908 601478www.vwpress.co.uk 04724/LB

Long standing leader Antony Diggins appointed as new Managing Director of UK’s leading used car warranty firm Warrantywise

Industry News

Warrantywise appoints Antony Diggins as Managing Director as the company strengthens its leadership in the extended warranty market Diggins has over a decade of experience at Warrantywise, playing a vital role in transforming the company into a market-leading enterprise Diggins has spearheaded the use of data-driven insights, technology, and operational excellence to drive growth, enhance customer experience and foster innovation As Managing Director, Diggins will focus on strategic growth, market expansion, and delivering customer-centric innovations while maintaining a commitment to transparency and service excellence Lawrence Whittaker will continue to serve in the role of CEO, providing strategic guidance and leadership to the company With over 20 years of industry expertise, Warrantywise remains a trusted leader in the UK, offering transparent and comprehensive extended warranty solutions to drivers nationwide Blackburn, 24 September 2024Warrantywise can confirm the appointment of Antony Diggins, a longstanding and integral member of the team, to Managing Director, effective from 1 September 2024. Diggins has played a crucial role in transforming Warrantywise from a growing operation into a market-leading enterprise in his 10+ year tenure. His expertise in technology, data-driven insights, and operational excellence have been fundamental to the company’s ongoing success and future growth strategy, while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and transparency. Joining in 2013 as a Web Developer, Diggins has steadily worked his way up through the company to his most recent role as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing significant team expansion and enhancing the company’s performance across key areas. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to developing the best product, using data and technology to improve customer experience and foster sustainable growth. In his new role as Managing Director, Diggins aims to leverage these strengths to shape the company’s future, focusing on market expansion and delivering customer-focused innovation. Lawrence Whittaker, will continue to serve as CEO, remaining a vital force in the company’s leadership, and continue to offer strategic guidance and leadership. Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise, commented: “In a world shaped by data and rapid technological change, our future lies in anticipating customer needs before they arise. My goal is to ensure that Warrantywise offers more than just products – we will provide intelligent, adaptable solutions that fit seamlessly into our customers’ lives, offering genuine value and lasting peace of mind. By focusing on delivering the best possible products, combined with excellent service and transparency, we can shape a future where extended vehicle warranties are not just an option but a natural and essential part of vehicle ownership. Our priority is always on providing innovative, customer-centric solutions that enhance the used car ownership experience, building trust and long-term security for drivers across the UK.” Diggins has a proven track record of empowering teams, improving performance through data insights, and maintaining a laser focus on market innovation. As Managing Director, he will lead Warrantywise through its next phase of growth, ensuring the company continues to deliver high-quality warranty solutions that align with the evolving needs of customers, making extended vehicle warranties a key part of modern car ownership. Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of Warrantywise, added: “Antony’s ability to blend technological innovation with operational insight has been transformative for Warrantywise. Over the past decade, he’s helped shape our strategic direction, bringing a data-driven approach to decisions while ensuring that product excellence, service and transparency remain at the heart of everything we do. Under his leadership, we’ve expanded our market reach, refined our customer offerings, and built a company culture grounded in innovation and collaboration. Antony’s vision for the future of Warrantywise aligns perfectly with the evolving needs of the automotive industry, and I’m confident that with him at the helm, we’ll continue to lead the market with value-driven, customer-focused solutions.” With Diggins’ appointment, Warrantywise is well-positioned to capitalise on future opportunities and challenges in the automotive market, continuing its trajectory as a leading provider of extended warranties for used vehicles across the UK. Backed by over 20 years of expertise, Warrantywise has established itself as a trusted leader in the UK’s extended car warranty industry. Dedicated to delivering transparent and comprehensive warranty solutions, Warrantywise prioritises customer satisfaction by providing drivers across the UK with protection against unforeseen repair costs, ensuring peace of mind on the road. For more information about Warrantywise’s plans, visit www.warrantywise.co.uk

CNC Motorsport delivers first continuation Andy Rouse Engineering Ford Sierra RS500 Group A Touring Car

Industry News

First of three Group A, period correct Ford Sierra RS500s, sanctioned by Andy Rouse, has been delivered to its customer Second car build underway with one final build slot remaining With full HTP papers, cars can be used at historic race events Download high resolution images here CNC Motorsport has delivered the first continuation Andy Rouse Engineering specification, Ford Sierra RS500 Group A race cars. Created in partnership with the four-time saloon/touring car champion, it is one of three RS500s that the road and race preparation specialist is building for use on track. Alan Strachan, an employee of Andy Rouse Engineering during the period of 1989-96 and mechanic on the Team Labatts Sierra RS500 in the British Touring Car Championship, and his son Andrew, assembled the first car over the past 24 months alongside other projects including Group A BMW 635CSI build, the restoration of a Merkur XR4TI and period Sierra RS500. The second car is already in build and it will use a brand new Motorsport specification bodyshell that was acquired at the start of the project. A third donor ‘shell has already been sourced for the final car. CNC Motorsport completed all the fabrication work to the bodyshell alongside producing all of the machined parts, such as uprights, rear arms, hubs, brake calipers, wheel centres and roll cage in house, to the exacting specification of the period Andy Rouse Engineering cars. Input from Andy and drawing on his own time with the team, as well as access to a period Labatts Sierra that CNC Motorsport engineers today, ensured that the build was faithful to the original cars. That includes using Getrag five-speed gearbox, period style gauges, fuel tank enclosure and roll cage that matches the specific Rouse design. CNC Motorsport remains the only certified producer of period ARE cages by the governing body, Motorsport UK. The first car features a 575bhp Cosworth YB engine built by Harvey Gibbs and later 10” viscous differential. “This project has enabled us to build a reliable, period correct car that will be competitive in historic motorsport for the fraction of the cost of an original,” says Alan Strachan. “These are to be enjoyed, raced hard and fair and without the concerns of taking a valuable, period car on track. The fans love to see these flame-spitting RS500s on the limit and they open the door to take part in a huge array of events across Europe.” About the Ford Sierra RS500The Sierra Cosworth RS500 was announced in July 1987. Just 500 were produced with a number of key upgrades to boost its performance in Touring Car racing. These included a larger Garrett turbocharger, bigger intercooler, a second fuel rail, different injectors and cooling system. Externally it featured an additional rear spoiler, front splitter and the fog lamps were removed to improve brake cooling. Just 500 road cars were produced with race cars built from 909 Motorsport shells just as the Rouse continuation car will be. Download high resolution images here. About CNC MotorsportIn the heart of The Cotswolds, father-and-son team Alan and Andrew Strachan run specialist motorsport engineering business CNC Motorsport. Alongside a burgeoning machining operation, the pair restore and recreate historic 1970s and 80s touring cars, utilising new materials and processes such as CNC and 3D printing technologies to get more of these popular competition vehicles back on track. Alan built such cars in period, working on icons such as the Ford Sierra RS500 and subsequent Super Tourers in the BTCC. This experience ensures both its restorations and recreations are built correctly but with subtle modern improvements to increase reliability and safety. For more information contact:Elan PR LtdNick BaileyM: +44 (0) 7813 956664nick@elan-pr.com

Rolls-Royce funds upgraded accessible footpath for local community

Industry News

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars confirms the opening of the newly surfaced Footpath 416, linking neighbouring villages of Westerton and Westhampnett New, all-weather surface means the route will be fully accessible to all users, all year round, for the first time Opening coincided with the start of the new school year, providing a traffic-free walking route for pupils from Westerton to The March CE Primary School in Westhampnett Forthcoming link to Footpath 417 will create a new, ‘clean boot’ circular walk around the Parish A major contribution from the marque to the local community, over and above requirements of the planning permission for the company’s new site extension, now under construction Augments the wealth of other environmental enhancements and community benefits being implemented as part of this economically significant project “For many years, local residents have walked between the villages of Westerton and Westhampnett along what is today officially designated as Footpath 416. But in every one of those winters, the footpath has become so wet and muddy that it has been completely inaccessible to those with limited mobility. The new, all-weather surface transforms this public right of way into a year-round community asset with vastly increased accessibility and amenity value, while retaining its fundamental vernacular character and place within the local landscape. It is our contribution to our neighbours and the community we’re so proud to be part of.”Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Relations and Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is delighted to announce the official reopening of the newly surfaced Footpath 416, a public right of way linking the villages of Westerton and Westhampnett, which lie close to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood. The official opening took place on 31 August 2024, to coincide with the start of the new school year. The footpath has been used by local residents and walkers for many years. However, the underlying soil means that, in winter, it became muddy to the point of being entirely inaccessible to those with limited mobility. In a particularly wet season, this situation could persist for months at a time. Now, for the first time, Footpath 416 will be fully accessible to all users, right through the year. With funding from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, it has been remade with a durable, all-weather surface. In its upgraded state, the footpath now allows schoolchildren and families to walk from nearby Westerton to The March CE Primary School in Westhampnett without getting their shoes dirty. It will also soon link up with another local public right of way, Footpath 417, to create a new, ‘clean boot’ circular route around the Parish for local residents and walkers exploring this beautiful corner of West Sussex. Importantly, the new surface makes the footpath fully accessible all year round for the first time. The surfacing and other improvements were conducted entirely at Rolls-Royce’s expense, in close consultation with Westhampnett Parish Council, West Sussex County Council and local residents; the works were not part of the planning conditions for the company’s extension project. The new extension represents the first major change to the physical footprint and facilities at the Home of Rolls-Royce since it opened in 2003. The project is crucial to the long-term sustainability and prosperity of the company which supports the employment of over 2,500 people at the Home of Rolls-Royce and over 7,500 jobs in the wider supply chain. It also contributes more than half a billion pounds to the UK economy every year, 20% of that locally in Chichester and West Sussex.

Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid crowned 2025 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year

Industry News

Overall Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year title foremost among five honours for Volvo in the 2025 awards Judges report “there’s no better towcar on sale right now” XC60 Plug-in Hybrid T6 mid-size SUV also wins Family Towcar, Hybrid Towcar and 1,800kg+ caravan weight categories Volvo V90 Plug-in Hybrid T8 large estate takes top place in the 1,700kg-1,800kg caravan weight class Volvo has achieved exceptional results in the 2025 Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards, collecting five honours, including the prestigious overall Towcar of the Year title. Bestowing the top prize on the Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid T6, the judges declared: “There’s no better towcar on sale right now.” The all-wheel-drive mid-size SUV was further named best family towcar, best hybrid towcar and the best model for pulling caravans above 1,800kg in weight. The Volvo V90 Plug-in Hybrid T8 large estate was also rewarded, winning the 1,700kg-1,800kg caravan weight class. The results sustain Volvo’s long-running success in the awards, with 25 honours collected over the past eight years. Announcing the awards, the Caravan and Motorhome Club said: “The mightily impressive Volvo XC60 Plug-in Hybrid wowed the judges with its effortless performance, towing capability, ease of driving, comfort levels and roomy interior, which is ideal for discerning caravanners.” Rob Deane, Volvo Car UK’s Commercial Operations Director, said: “Few automotive awards subject their entrants to such close scrutiny, so to be honoured by the Caravan and Motorhome Club is a much-valued seal of approval. It rewards the importance we place on making our cars practical to own and use, as well as desirable, luxurious, safe and sustainable.” The XC60 was praised by the judges for its luxuriousness, “cool” design and practicality that allows family-sized luggage loads to be carried. Its level stance when towing a caravan and excellent sight lines when reversing into a pitch were also commended. The Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards are the UK’s longest-established towing awards. This year, 33 vehicles were put through their paces at the UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. On top of each vehicle’s towing ability, their practicality, comfort and quality were also assessed by the independent judging panel, which included specialist journalists and caravanning experts. For more information about the Volvo XC60 and V90, and to use the online configurator, please go to www.volvocars.co.uk.