MAHLE Powertrain expands dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capabilities at Northampton

Industry News

Facility to support light and heavy-duty hydrogen powertrain testing Dual tube-trailer capacity with rapid switch-over enables extended testing Upgraded engine dyno specifications will support up to 4,000Nm and 900kW MAHLE Powertrain, the specialist engineering subsidiary of the MAHLE Group, is expanding its Northampton facility to include a dedicated hydrogen powertrain testing capability. The capacity to hold two tube-trailers on-site with rapid switch-over functionality between them will ensure a near-continuous supply of hydrogen. In addition, upgraded engine dynamometers with a 900kW, 4,000Nm nominal capacity mean the center will be ideally placed to support the growing demand for hydrogen powertrain development as well as testing of both light and heavy-duty applications. “Off-highway, heavy-duty and marine sectors are increasingly looking to hydrogen combustion engines as a way of decarbonizing their emissions in areas where electrification isn’t suitable,” said Simon Reader, Director – Global Engineering Services, MAHLE Powertrain. “This expansion is in response to strong demand from our customers for this type of work. It equips our test cells with a dedicated hydrogen supply to create a facility that can perform rigorous testing on even the most heavy-duty engines and their increased weight and torque characteristics.” The facility is already being used in the development of hydrogen fuel cell systems, hydrogen combustion engines and testing of hydrogen fuelled vehicles. It will also soon begin work on the development of an H2-ICE concept that converts existing heavy-duty diesel engines to hydrogen combustion – thereby negating the need for wholesale replacement and capitalizing on existing infrastructure to accelerate the transition towards net-zero mobility. The facility’s supply side meticulously follows the BCGA (British Compressed Gases Association) guidance on the storage and handling of hydrogen. In addition, the individual test cells each feature a unique MAHLE Powertrain-designed system for the monitoring and safe handling of any potential gas escape. The company also has knowledge and experience in the development of engines adapted to run on renewable alcohol fuels, such as methanol. Note for journalists: you will find images connected with this press release at: https://newsroom.mahle.com/press/en/. Contacts in MAHLE Corporate Communications: Kerstin Cynthia LauHead of Media RelationsPhone: +49 711 501-13185E-mail: kerstin.cynthia.lau@mahle.com Agency contactRichard DurbinPhone: +44 7525 718205E-mail: richard.durbin@loopagency.co.uk About MAHLEMAHLE is a leading international development partner and supplier to the automotive industry with customers in both passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors. Founded in 1920, the technology group is working on the climate-neutral mobility of tomorrow, with a focus on the strategic areas of electrification and thermal management as well as further technology fields to reduce CO2 emissions, such as fuel cells or highly efficient combustion engines that also run on hydrogen or synthetic fuels. Today, one in every two vehicles globally is equipped with MAHLE components. MAHLE generated sales just under EUR 13 billion in 2023. The company is represented with approx. 72,500 employees at 148 production locations and 11 major research and development centers in 29 countries. (as of 31.12.2023) #WeShapeFutureMobility About MAHLE PowertrainMAHLE Powertrain is a specialist in providing engineering services for the design, development and integration of advanced internal combustion engines and electrified powertrain systems. As a recognized expert in these fields, MAHLE Powertrain is engaged in the extensive research, development and application of new traditional and advanced drivelines into cost-effective, production feasible solutions for enhanced efficiency, improved fuel economy and lower emissions. As a services subsidiary of the MAHLE Group, MAHLE Powertrain has six technical centers strategically located in the UK, Germany, USA, and China with approx. 400 employees in total and is well-placed to provide solutions around the globe. It operates independently of the main group when considering choice of components or technologies. Additional informationMAHLE Powertrain’s Northampton, UK, facility also includes a Vehicle Development Centre that supports the testing and verification of next-generation electric and hydrogen-fueled vehicles. The facility’s test chambers can accommodate both two- and four-wheel-drive vehicles tested at speeds up to 155mph. Climatic conditions can be simulated from -40°C to +60°C with humidity ranging from 10% to 80%, while pressure control allows altitudes up to 5,000m (16,400ft) to be simulated. In addition, the site includes their Battery Development Centre, with its own substation and dedicated National Grid connection, which has the capability to test battery packs of up to 1MW with full fire protection in the event of a thermal runaway. A prototype and low volume battery build area also supports customers with complete end to end battery development. The Battery Development Centre and expertise is also replicated in its Stuttgart facility for European based customers.

Maserati MSG Racing stages strong recovery in Portland

Industry News

Maserati MSG Racing’s Maximilian Günther gains 13 positions to finish eighth in Portland The Race in Numbers Maximilian GüntherFree Practice Three // P19Qualifying // P21 [1:10.005, Group A]Race // P8Positions Gained // +13Fastest Lap // 1:11.648Championship Position // P8 [73 points] Jehan DaruvalaFree Practice Three // P20Qualifying // P9 [1:09.758, Group A]Race // P12Positions Gained // -3Fastest Lap // 1:11.501Championship Position // P20 [8 points] Maserati MSG RacingChampionship // P8 [81 points] Maserati MSG Racing’s Maximilian Günther staged an impressive recovery drive at the 2024 Portland E-Prix, gaining 13 positions to finish eighth in a hard-fought race in Oregon. After facing a challenging first race on Saturday, the 26-year-old rebounded in strong fashion on Sunday after initially struggling for pace across practice and Qualifying. Max launched his efforts from Group A but lined up at the rear of the grid in 21st while team-mate, Jehan Daruvala, qualified ninth after narrowly missing out on the duels by only 0.003 seconds. At the start of the race, both drivers chose to hold position before strategically dropping back in the field to save energy which would be deployed at a later stage. With an energy offset over their closest rivals, Max and Jehan then used this to their advantage and began to fight through the pack with furious efficiency. As the battle started to heat up ahead, Max slotted into the top 10 on lap 15 by overtaking Edoardo Mortara and entered a multi-lap battle with Sacha Fenestraz and Norman Nato in the fight for eighth. After overtaking both, Max was unfortunately pushed wide by Lucas di Grassi and slipped to 10th before an ill-timed Safety Car, caused by debris on track, neutralised the race on lap 18. This pause in action reduced energy saving targets throughout the field, and as a result, minimised Max and Jehan’s earlier strategic advantage, although the pair continued to fight. By clearing Fenestraz for a second time, Max slotted into ninth and overtook Di Grassi on the final lap to claim eighth at the flag, while Jehan also passed the Brazilian to finish 12th. Season 10 of the FIA Formula E World Championship will continue in London, United Kingdom on 20-21 July 2024 where a campaign will come to a close and a champion will be crowned. In Their Words Maximilian Günther, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing“This weekend has been very tough for us, so recovering to the top ten after starting from the last row of the grid is an achievement. Without the Safety Car, I think even more could have been possible but I’m still very happy. There’s no doubt that this weekend has been challenging, and there are still a few question marks about our performance remaining. We will use the time between now and London to clear that up, but we can be happy. Compared to where we were last year, we’ve made some good changes to the car, and street circuits are good for us, so London should suit our package.” Jehan Daruvala, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing“Today’s race didn’t go as I had hoped. After a good performance in Qualifying, I tried to save as much energy as possible at the start, but the timing of the Safety Car lowered everyone else’s energy targets which meant that I wasn’t able to use my own advantage to full effect. Our focus is now on London to make the most of the remaining opportunities to score points – I’m hoping to end the season on a high.” Cyril Blais, Deputy Team Principal, Maserati MSG Racing“Mixed emotions for the team today. With Max starting at the back, it was always going to be a difficult race but we decided to go aggressive with our strategy. We saved energy at the beginning which paid off, and then we began to climb through the pack. Unfortunately, the Safety Car came out at the worst possible time for us because it minimised the advantage we had, but nevertheless, Max was able to finish eighth which, after starting from 21st, is a great result. With Jehan starting inside the top 10, we had high hopes for him to score some good points, and it was a shame that we couldn’t have both cars up there. We’ll take the positives and key learnings away from this weekend, debrief thoroughly, and focus on our preparation for London so that we can put ourselves in contention for more championship points.” Giovanni Sgro, Head of Maserati Corse“Obviously not an easy race. The whole weekend was more difficult than expected. We know how stressful two-race weekends can be for the drivers, who often get to race 2 without having slept well and short of energy. Nevertheless, we scored some points thanks to a spectacular recovery and we are ready for a hard-fought season finale in London. Once again, the weekend has been useful to gather data, not only looking ahead to the next race, but also to further explore the issues of technology transfer from the track to the road with our Maserati Folgore range.” 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 Levante – the first SUV made by Maserati, 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 Levante – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident Brand. The top of the range…

New Aston Martin GT3 secures historic victory in the Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa

Industry News

New Aston Martin Vantage GT3 records maiden 24-hour victory in Belgium Comtoyou Racing and Aston Martin celebrate new relationship with famous victory for Mattia Drudi, Nicki Thiim and Marco Sørensen First overall win for Aston Martin in the 24 Hours of Spa since 1948 Aston Martin becomes first British manufacturer to claim victory in 40 years First 24 Hours of Spa victory for British ultra-luxury sportscar brand in the modern GT-only era of the event Sunday, 30 June, 2024, Spa-Francorchamps: Aston Martin has recorded a glorious overall victory in the Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa – the world’s most prestigious all-GT3 24 hour race which took place at Spa-Francorchamps, in Belgium, over 29-30 June weekend. The win, claimed by Aston Martin partner team Comtoyou Racing, and works drivers Mattia Drudi (ITA), Marco Sørensen (DEN) and Nicki Thiim (DEN), was the first for the British ultra-luxury sportscar brand since 1948. The result also marked a maiden 24-hour triumph for the new Aston Martin Vantage GT3 and was the first time the famous Wings had beaten its major competition in the Belgian endurance classic since it became an-all GT event in 2001. For double FIA GT World Endurance champion Thiim and triple world champion Sørensen, affectionally known within the sport as the ‘Dane Train’, victory represents the first time the duo have won a 24-hour race overall as team-mates in the same car, in spite of them having three 24 Hours of Le Mans class wins between them. Sørensen said: “This is a very special moment. To win already in the first year with the new Vantage GT3 is an amazing achievement. It’s a fantastic car, and we’ve had a good feeling about it all year. But to win an event like this takes more than good driving and good luck, and the team, and everyone back at Aston Martin Racing, as well as my team-mates deserve credit for a victory I will remember forever.” Thiim added: “It’s difficult to put into words what this means to me, and to Aston Martin. We have been trying to win this race for a long time, and to do it in this way is an incredible feeling. I think everyone knows how I feel about Aston Martin. We have had so many special memories together, and this win is up there with the best of them for me.” For Drudi, a Fanatec GT World Europe champion, it was an opportunity to shine on one of endurance racing’s biggest stages, and that he did, putting the #007 car in contention every time he stepped in the cockpit – including during the opening hours of the race, where he’d worked the team into a leading position before the first of multiple Safety Car Periods. A complicated night of racing, where torrential thunderstorms and multiple incidents neutralised the event for several hours, Comtoyou Racing remained composed and kept the car in touch with the leading fight, even as pitstops during the Safety Car periods forced 20-car swings in the race positions on occasion. Each time, the team rebounded and raced back to the front so that as morning came and the track dried out, it found itself in a straight fight for victory with a rival Ferrari, two BMWs and the other Pro class #34 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 of partner team Walkenhorst Motorsport, driven by Henrique Chaves (POR), Ross Gunn (GBR) and David Pittard (GBR). In the final hour of the race the #7 Comtoyou Racing Aston Martin trailed the Ferrari by 10s, when its rival pitted and was held-up in the pitlane entry by a stranded car. This turn of events prevented Ferrari with the chance to race for the win and denied the fans a grandstand finish as Drudi raced to the flag unopposed. “To win with Nicki and Marco has been a fantastic experience,” said Drudi. “This is such a tough race, but I would say we had the perfect run, with no problems and a very good execution. I am very proud of everyone in the team.” Gunn brought the #34 Walkenhorst Vantage GT3 home fourth following a strong run for the team that saw it lead on several occasions. Indeed Walkenhorst Motorsport, a previous winner of the event, came close to clinching the Silver Cup class victory in the #35 Vantage GT3 driven by 2022 AMR Driver Academy graduate Romain Leroux (FRA) and 2024 candidates Lorcan Hanafin (GBR) and Maxime Robin (FRA). Unfortunately, the car was the innocent victim of an accident, following a Safety Car period on Sunday morning, while fighting for the lead of the class. Of Comtoyou Racing’s four-car entry, which completed a record seven-car assault on the race by Aston Martin, the #007 was often the fastest car in the race, but the team’s #21 Silver Cup car driven by Charles Clark (GBR), Sam Dejonghe (BEL), Matisse Lismont (BEL) and Xavier Maassen finished sixth, having led the class earlier in the race. The new Vantage GT3, closely derived from the new Vantage road car unveiled earlier this year at Silverstone, and built around Aston Martin’s proven bonded aluminium chassis and powered by its fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, is in a rich vein of form. In the month of June alone it has clinched victories in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, the SUPER GT Series, the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie and Road to Le Mans event. Now Aston Martin can add one of the most famous wins in its racing history to that tally. Adam Carter, Head of Endurance Motorsport, said: “We offer our sincere congratulations and thanks to our partners Comtoyou Racing on this fantastic victory for the new Aston Martin Vantage GT3. We have known since the start of the season what the car is capable of, and this performance at Spa was through a combination of technical excellence, endurance, fortitude and execution. I’d also like to congratulate Walkenhorst Motorsport on a hard-fought performance which was unfortunate not to yield a podium finish. The hard work…

Maserati GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello: the first 100% electric luxury convertible, an exclusive car inspired by tradition, innovation and craftsmanship made in Italy

Industry News

From the Bespoke experience of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme, the House of the Trident has created a unique model in collaboration with Marchesi Antinori,to celebrate Tignanello’s 50th anniversary. Modena, 1 July 2024 – To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tignanello, one of the most influential red wines that was ahead of its times, Maserati crafted a customised Fuoriserie version of its latest creation, GranCabrio Folgore, the most futuristic expression of the current 100% electric production from the Modena-based brand. The bespoke, which was exclusively created for Marchesi Antinori, will be auctioned, on July 14, in California at Festival Napa Valley’s Arts for All Gala—one of the leading arts charity events in the US. For the 110th anniversary of the Trident, Maserati comes together with Marchesi Antinori, which boasts a family wine history of over 600 years, handed down for 26 generations, and is an elevated, distinctive symbol of Italy. With its solid identity, innovative intuition and the strong value of the centuries-old tradition that has made the Italian winery one of the best companies in the world, the production of Marchesi Antinori and Tignanello reflect the feeling and passion that have always characterised the spirit of Maserati, a lively protagonist and pioneer in the history of motoring. It has always been driven by the desire to anticipate and become a sign of the times. The inspiration for this car arises from the vineyard, a metaphor for roots and territory. Both houses’ local areas add much value to their end products: from the cellar, the magical place where wine is made, and from the specific Tignanello label, unchanged for half a century and still highly recognisable, just like the Trident’s most iconic creations.To craft a car that epitomises the characteristics and values of Marchesi Antinori and Tignanello, Maserati has researched the uniqueness that surrounds the history of this wine and it has paid homage to the Florentine family of winemakers through the colours, shades, innovative materials and refined artisan details that make GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello an ode in motion to the prestigious Tignanello vineyard and to the 50 years of this wine. The exteriors of GranCabrio Folgore Tignanello translate into a customisation of the body colour, created ad hoc: the Terra di Tignanello paint is a chestnut colour inspired by the vineyard’s soil, warmed by a coppery burgundy reminiscent of the central red shades of Tignanello’s characteristic barriques. It has a rich, metallic tint; a prestigious colour inspired by the estate and the atmosphere of the winery. The rims and callipers come in matte and gloss black respectively, whereas the emblems are coloured copper, with the Maserati logo in glossy copper on a gloss background. The soft top fabric is also black. But the most romantic details lie in the interiors, ‘revealing’ the hallmarks of Tignanello and celebrating the history of both houses, combining tradition, innovation and craftsmanship. The seats feature leather embellished with a multi-material silver and burgundy ribbed weave, made of Vegea, an innovative spreadable fabric derived from the vineyards. It recalls the pattern of the rows of vines on the Tignanello hill, marked out by the Albarese rocks in their midst. The fabric looks and feels like leather, and it is used for the first time in a Maserati car. Everything else is real material: dark briar wood with lasering – selected to recall the printing burned into the oak barrels – embellishes the panels, featuring textual details on the creation of Tignanello. On the headrest, elegant embroidery combines the Maserati Trident with one of Tignanello’s hallmarks: the sun, long a distinctive feature on the bottle label. The same symbol is lasered on the central tunnel, together with the dates 1971-2021: these refer to the first and current vintage of Tignanello, 50 years since this wine was released on the market. Klaus Busse, Maserati Head of Design: “This collaboration with Marchesi Antinori gives us the opportunity to epitomise the essence of Bespoke production, the flagship of our Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme. It is designed to create ad-hoc experiences for Trident customers, by producing tailor-made cars that can make the driving experience even more sublime and distinctive, the way only an outstanding wine can at the table. Telling a story of Italian excellence is a source of pride for us and serves as constant stimulus for our work, which with Bespoke production aspires to create something absolutely dedicated and inimitable”. Piero Antinori: “A never-ending challenge, the obsession to improve and constantly question ourselves, to find higher and higher quality margins: these are the cornerstones of the collaboration with Maserati, a brand acknowledged worldwide as a symbol of Made in Italy quality.A one-of-a-kind model, inspired by Tignanello for its 50th anniversary, a car with a great identity and recognisability, just like our wine. An initiative that makes our family particularly proud: this special GranCabrio Folgore will be auctioned at Festival Napa Valley’s 2024 Arts for All Gala, with the proceeds to be donated to charity”. GranCabrio Folgore is Maserati’s latest addition, as the first 100% electric convertible in the luxury segment and the fastest on the market. Performance, comfort, style and elegance give this car equipped with a battery system based on 800V technology – developed with cutting-edge technical solutions based on Formula E – the ability to offer outstanding performance combined with the Trident’s typical comfort and elegance.Maserati GranCabrio provides four true seats, made possible by the soft top. It also comes with a series of innovative systems and details, such as the neck warmer to travel with the top down even when the temperature drops, and the wind stopper to reduce turbulence inside the passenger compartment. Tignanello was the first Sangiovese to be aged in barriques, the first contemporary red wine blended with untraditional grape varieties (specifically Cabernet) and one of the first red wines from Chianti Classico that did not use white grapes. Tignanello is a milestone, a wine that fully represents the spirit of the Antinori family’s motto, “Te Duce Proficio”, which means “Following your…

My Honda+ app to offer simpler subscription options and extend cover to all new hybrid and electric models

Industry News

My Honda+ connected car application has been improved and refined to provide a range of comfort, convenience, and security features App coverage has expanded to cover all new Honda hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric vehicles Subscription model streamlined to simplify user experience with a new, clearly defined package Honda has relaunched its advanced connected car application following consultation with Owners and Users. The MyHonda+ app now covers the brand’s full current range of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles – allowing owners to control a wide range of functionality and further integrate their vehicle into their lives. From July 1st 2024, owners of the Jazz e:HEV, Civic e:HEV, HR-V e:HEV, ZR-V e:HEV and the latest-generation CR-V e:HEV will be able to access the virtual dashboard, remote vehicle operation, location finder, and geo-fencing to ensure peace of mind when leaving the car. In addition, Honda’s Digital Key will be made available for all models except Jazz, allowing owners to transform their smartphone into a key and safely share vehicle access with up to five additional drivers. Other features of the revised MyHonda+ app include the ability to send a point of interest to the sat-nav, create favourite routes, plus the use of a smartphone camera when pairing with the vehicle. Revisions to the app also mean more timely and accurate updating of the vehicle status once the ignition is switched off. All-electric and plug-in hybrid models will gain further functionality, allowing users to remotely schedule vehicle charging to meet their needs, as well as pre-heating or pre-cooling the cabin via the AC system prior to a journey. Subscription modelsHonda has also simplified and streamlined the MyHonda+ subscription process to ensure customers fully understand what services will be available – rolling the previous ‘Core Connectivity’, ‘Safety & Journey’, and ‘Honda Digital Key’ packages into one. This will be available free of charge for three years from the vehicle’s first registration date, followed by a low monthly payment thereafter. This new structure also allows second and subsequent owners to use the functionality free of charge if the vehicle is purchased within three years from the vehicle’s first registration. Previously, this was only available to the first registered owner of the vehicle. The updated My Honda+ will be rolled out for all existing and new users from July 1st, 2024. Current owners of the Jazz e:HEV, Civic e:HEV, HR-V e:HEV, ZR-V e:HEV and the latest generation CR-V e:HEV can book an appointment at their local dealer to activate the TCU module within the car, to enable the vehicle to sync with the app. New and prospective owners can also experience the app and trial its new functionality at dealerships.

Aston Martin set to thrill with dynamic display at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Industry News

An incredible line-up of Aston Martin sports cars has been assembled to supply velocity with verve at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, including Valkyrie, Valour, Valiant, Victor and Vantage Aston Martin Valiant will make its global debut at Goodwood and two-time Formula One® World Champion Fernando Alonso will take the wheel on Friday The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place 11-14 July 01 July, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin will supply velocity with verve at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed (11 – 14 July) when Valkyrie, Valour, Valiant, Victor and Vantage headline the marque’s line-up of ultra-luxury sports cars heading up the famous Goodwood Hillclimb. The Festival of Speed, held at Goodwood every July is a highlight of the British summer season. The event has become an unmissable pilgrimage for lovers of speed who travel from across the world to revel in the sights and sounds of the world’s finest sports cars, driven by the racing stars of the past, the present and the future. Visitors to this year’s Festival are in for some high-octane thrills, courtesy of Aston Martin, as they witness the global debut of Aston Martin Valiant, one of just 38 ultra-exclusive, track-focused, road-legal special editions, created following a personal commission by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver, two-time Formula One® World Champion Fernando Alonso, who will drive the new car on Friday at Goodwood. Embodying Aston Martin’s commitment to build pure driver’s cars, Valiant is sure to be one of the stars of the show, especially in its Muncher-inspired specification, which is a nod to the legendary Aston Martin Le Mans race car. Joining Valiant in the Supercar Paddock and on the Goodwood Hillclimb is a truly eye-watering line-up of Aston Martins. Valkyrie, Aston Martin’s game-changing hypercar is back. The crowd-pleasing, head-turner made its dynamic debut at Goodwood in 2021 and is now the inspiration for the new Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH-hypercar that is set to return the brand to the top echelons of sports car racing in 2025. Next up is Valour, created to celebrate the 110th anniversary of Aston Martin. With it’s bespoke 6-speed manual transmission, uniquely mated to a 5.2 litre Twin-Turbo V12 for maximum driver engagement and timeless classic appeal, Valour is the last of an era. The one-of-a-kind Aston Martin Victor, described by Top Gear as “the hypercar the eighties never had” was created by the brand’s unique personalisation service – ‘Q by Aston Martin’ – with a manual gearbox and, naturally, a V12 engine. The Festival of Speed provides a rare opportunity to see this unique car in action on the hillclimb and up-close in the Supercar Paddock. Launched just a few months ago, the new Aston Martin Vantage is Aston Martins truly focused sportscar. The latest car to take the vaunted Vantage nameplate is continuing the brand’s tradition of creating potent front-engined, rear-wheel drive sports cars, engineered to deliver maximum thrills with maximum confidence. Vantage is the heartbeat of the Aston Martin brand and this new model exemplifies the brand in every way. The new Aston Martin Vantage will also be represented in the motorsport paddock by the one-off Official FIA Safety Car of Formula 1® and by the new-for-2024 Vantage GT3 race car, which competes across the globe in series including the FIA World Endurance Championship. Joining all the ‘V’ models at Goodwood, is the World’s first Super Tourer, the Aston Martin DB12 – the first of the new generation of sports cars. Also on display in the First Glance paddock is the new DBX707, showing off its striking new interior design, complete with new, state-of-the-art infotainment system, developed in-house at Aston Martin. Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand & Commercial Officer said: “The Festival of Speed is the highlight of the season for those who worship at the temple of speed. We are proud to play a part in this incredible, annual celebration of speed and this year we are delighted to offer up quite the array of Aston Martin sports cars and also the brand-new spec of DBX707. We look forward to this event every year as it is a great opportunity to showcase our brand to true connoisseurs of sports cars.” The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed gets underway on July 11th and runs through until July 14th.

Maserati MSG Racing faces challenging Saturday in Portland

Industry News

A challenging Saturday for Maserati MSG Racing in Portland The Race in Numbers Maximilian GüntherFree Practice One // P9Free Practice Two // P18Qualifying // P19 [1:10.345, Group A]Race // DNFPositions Gained // N/AFastest Lap // 1:13.642Championship Position // P8 [69 points] Jehan DaruvalaFree Practice One // P11Free Practice Two // P20Qualifying // P20 [1:10.127, Group B]Race // P16Positions Gained // +2Fastest Lap // 1:12.169Championship Position // P20 [8 points] Maserati MSG RacingChampionship // P7 [77 points] Maserati MSG Racing experienced a challenging first race in the double-header 2024 Portland E-Prix, with the team narrowly missing out on points following a late surge in the United States. The Monaco-based team entered the penultimate race weekend of Formula E’s 10th season with high aspirations and worked hard to make progress after struggling for initial pace across practice. In Qualifying for Race One, drivers Maximilian Günther and Jehan Daruvala fell short of the duel stages and started from 17th and 18th thanks to grid penalties after placing 19th and 20th. With an action-packed peloton race ahead, however, there was cause for optimism, with the duo perfectly positioned to save crucial energy from the outset. The pair started the race by holding position but quickly began to fight forward, with Jehan taking an early first Attack Mode on lap four before pressing his advantage while Max continued to hold ground. As the race continued to evolve, Max and Jehan adjusted their approach appropriately, and after building an energy advantage over their closest competitors, set out in pursuit of the top 10. After taking both of his Attack Modes in quick succession, Max broke into the points-paying positions on lap 15 and continued to fight forward, running as high as sixth. Unfortunately, the 26-year-old lost track position late in the race and was shuffled outside of the top 10, but was forced to retire after contact with Jehan on lap 24. Jehan, meanwhile, finished 16th. In Their Words Maximilian Günther, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing“A tough day for us. All weekend we have been struggling for pace, and Qualifying was especially difficult. We found in challenging to put the car in the right operating window, and that meant that we started quite far from the front. From there, we tried to execute a good race on energy, but we had a few issues. Unfortunately, in the final stages, Jehan made contact with me in Turn One, and that ended my race.” Jehan Daruvala, Driver, Maserati MSG Racing“Today’s race was obviously frustrating, and I’m very sorry for the team. Late in the race I was running behind Max, my brakes locked up into Turn One, and after that I was pretty much a passenger and tried to avoid him as much as I could. It was my mistake, and I take full responsibility for it. Tomorrow is a new day with fresh opportunities, and hopefully, we can both score points to make up for today.” Cyril Blais, Deputy Team Principal, Maserati MSG Racing“The outcome of today’s race wasn’t something we deserved, nor was it remotely close to what we set out to achieve. Reflecting on today, I think there’s a lot for us to debrief and digest, but I’m confident that we can put the necessary changes in place to come back stronger on Sunday. We have another chance to score points tomorrow, and we need to take advantage of that opportunity.” Giovanni Sgro, Head of Maserati Corse“Unfortunately, we’ve been unlucky today, and racing can be disappointing sometimes. Portland is an extremely fast circuit, and it hasn’t been kind to us. Every round is a challenge and a learning opportunity: for Maserati, Formula E isn’t only a series of races, but most of all the ideal platform to extend our commitment to the new era of electrification, which we have entered with the Folgore range. We’ll make up for it tomorrow: I’m aware of our drivers’ talent and determination and I’m sure they’ll be providing us with great performance and decent results in the last three rounds of the season.” 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 Levante – the first SUV made by Maserati, 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 Levante – 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 the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. Today the full-electric range includes also the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first full-electric SUV, and the latest addition, GranCabrio Folgore. By 2025, all Maserati models will also be available in a full-electric version, and the entire Maserati range will run on electricity alone by 2028. For further information:MASERATIRoberta Marchetti – Maserati Corse Communications Manager – roberta.marchetti@maserati.com Maserati MSG RacingMaserati MSG Racing is one of the founding teams of the FIA Formula E World Championship and, in December 2013, became the first manufacturer to join the first all-electric category in motorsport. As one of the…

One-two finish for Maserati in Race 1 of Fanatec GT2 European Series round 3, Spa

Industry News

Spa-Francorchamps, 29 June 2024 – One year after the car and sports plans were unveiled, Maserati returns to Spa-Francorchamps for round 3 of the Fanatec GT2 European Series Powered by Pirelli. Over a weekend when the 24 Hours of Spa is also being held, the three Maserati GT2s were the stars on Friday, achieving a magnificent one-two in Race 1 with the victory of LP Racing’s number 1 car, driven by Leonardo Gorini and Carlo Tamburini who finished ahead of teammate Philippe Prette, the winner in the Am class. In the same class, the third Maserati, the TFT Racing team’s number 24 driven by Alexandre Leroy, crossed the finish line in second (fifth overall). In Race 2, the Belgian took the bottom step of the podium for the class. At the end of qualifying for Race 1, the Maseratis took the top three places with Leroy taking his first pole position of the season. At the start, the number 24 picked up on the advantage to maintain the lead in the race but was forced to give way to the number 1 Maserati GT2 with Gorini at the wheel, who made his way to the front of the pack after a few laps. Passing the baton to Tamburini, the latter then made a mistake at Les Combes, giving his teammate Philippe Prette the opportunity to catch up significantly, although he still kept the lead. Tamburini was the first to the chequered flag, with Prette finishing 2.8 seconds behind, confirming the Maserati one-two and his third win of the year in the Am class. Leroy remained in the battle for the overall podium all throughout, but then dropped to fifth to take second in the Am class. In the second 50-minute race held on Saturday morning, Prette was forced to pit in the early laps due to a puncture, compromising the rest of the race. After a good start, Tamburini found himself in fourth, but after about 20 minutes he slipped to eighth after contact with an opponent. At the end of the mandatory pit window, Gorini – who took over from Tamburini – began to make up for falling behind but was unfortunately forced to pit again due to a puncture; he ended up finishing tenth. Leroy, with a steady pace throughout the race, finished sixth overall and third in the Am class. The next event, round 4 of the Fanatec GT2 European Series Powered by Pirelli, is scheduled to take place in Hockenheim, Germany, from 19 to 21 July. Giovanni Sgro, Head of Maserati Corse: “Our winning streak with Maserati GT2 continues: I couldn’t have hoped for anything better this weekend at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, despite a bit of bad luck in Race 2. Once again, taking the first and second places in Race 1 demonstrates that we have developed an outstanding car for motorsport customers, professional racing teams and gentleman drivers. Maserati’s racing vocation, recently celebrated with the two MC20 Icona and MC20 Leggenda special editions for the 20th anniversary of the MC12’s debut, both in GT1 and Stradale versions, is the common thread that binds all our cars. Starting from the MC20, via the Maserati GT2 to the MCXtrema, our brand reiterates its intent to develop cutting-edge technologies and to meet customers’ requirements, both on the road and on the track. We can’t wait to line up on the grid for the next round of the 2024 Fanatec GT2 European Series Powered by Pirelli at Hockenheim”. 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 the high-performance V6 petrol engine, derived from the Nettuno, and a 100% electric version: the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. Today the full-electric range includes also the Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s first full-electric SUV, and the latest addition, GranCabrio Folgore. By 2025, all Maserati models will be available in a full-electric version, and the entire Maserati range will run on electricity alone by 2028. For further information:MASERATIRoberta Marchetti – Maserati Corse Communications Manager – roberta.marchetti@maserati.com

Polestar delivers first customer Polestar 3 electric SUVs

Industry News

GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN – 27 June 2024. Polestar (NASDAQ: PSNY) has made its first customer deliveries of Polestar 3. The SUV for the electric age plays an important role in the Company’s development, as Polestar now has three models on the roads, including two SUVs. The initial vehicles are being handed over to customers across two continents in the coming days, with deliveries set to accelerate throughout the summer. With significant acclaim from global automotive media, customer interest for Polestar 3 remains high, resulting in the initial batch of customer test drives being over-subscribed. Additional test-drive slots have now been made available during the summer months, across Polestar’s Spaces. At Polestar’s headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden, the first Polestar 3 handovers were completed in a special ceremony at the brand’s iconic Cube. Alongside their launch edition Polestar 3s, finished in a mixture of Magnesium and Space, these first customers also received a special Polestar gift package to mark the special occasion. Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar said: “This is an important milestone – first deliveries of Polestar 3 to our customers. Test drives start at all Polestar Spaces this coming weekend in Europe. Thousands of hand-raisers are invited to experience our great, luxurious performance SUV. Polestar is becoming a global player with the most attractive electric product range.” Customers across the world are about to experience the same in local handover ceremonies. More customer deliveries will take place in Germany and Norway tomorrow while in the USA, where additional Polestar 3 manufacturing will start during the summer, the North American Polestar team is handing over the first customer Polestar 3sin California, Illinois, Indiana and New York. A mix of Long range Dual motor and Long range Dual motor with Performance Pack models, these Launch Edition cars are finished in a mixture of Snow, Thunder and Magnesium. Kristian Elvefors, Global Head of Commercial at Polestar said “We always knew the Polestar 3 was going to be popular, but even we were blown away by the global media’s reviews and the response to opening up test drive bookings. It’s testament to the excitement in the market for this car and customer interest to get behind the wheel of our flagship electric SUV.” Test drives of the Polestar 3 can be booked from your local Polestar Space by clicking the followinghttps://www.polestar.com/test-drive/booking/ps3 Ends. Media Contact:Graeme LambertPolestar Product PRgraeme.lambert@polestar.com About PolestarPolestar (Nasdaq: PSNY) is the Swedish electric performance car brand determined to improve society by using design and technology to accelerate the shift to sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, its cars are available online in 27 markets globally across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. Polestar plans to have a line-up of five performance EVs by 2026. Polestar 2, the electric performance fastback, launched in 2019. Polestar 3, the SUV for the electric age, launched in late 2022. Polestar 4, the SUV coupé transformed, is launching in phases through 2023 and into 2024. Polestar 5, an electric four-door GT and Polestar 6, an electric roadster, are coming soon. The Polestar 0 project supports the company’s ambitious goal of creating a truly climate-neutral production car by 2030. The research initiative also aims to create a sense of urgency to act on the climate crisis, by challenging employees, suppliers and the wider automotive industry, to drive towards zero. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains statements that are not historical facts, but rather forward-looking statements within the meaning of Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include those that address activities, events or developments that Polestar or its management believes or anticipates may occur in the future. All forward-looking statements are based upon, as applicable, our current expectations, various assumptions and data available from third parties. Our expectations and assumptions are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will materialize or prove to be correct as forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual future results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the future results, performance or achievements expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those set out in the forward-looking statements, including those risks and uncertainties set forth in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in Polestar’s Form 20-F, and other documents filed, or to be filed, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission by Polestar. For any forward-looking statements contained in this or any other document, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and we assume no obligation to update publicly or revise any such statements in light of new information or future events, except as required by law.

Don’t ignore your EV’s “other battery”

Industry News

Maintain 12-volt battery to avoid EV breakdowns “The other battery” essential for many EV functions Many electric car drivers remain unaware their EV has a crucial 12-volt battery that is essential to running their car, reveals leading breakdown provider Start Rescue. A faulty or flat 12-volt battery is the leading reason for an EV breakdown, rather than unfounded worries about the main battery’s range. Start Rescue’s research shows 23.7% of EV call-outs are due to the car not starting with the key, which is less than the 29.7% figure for petrol and diesel cars for the same issue. “EVs are very reliable but, like all cars, it has a 12-volt battery that needs to be looked after,” says Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue. “Overall, EVs are less likely to require a breakdown call-out than ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, but EVs need to be driven to avoid the 12-volt battery going flat over time.” Alongside the large high voltage battery that powers an EV’s motor, the 12-volt system is vital for door locks, ignition, air conditioning, safety equipment, and running crucial controls for the electric drivetrain. The 12-volt battery in an EV is simple to maintain and Start Rescue advises drivers to use their EV regularly as the best way to look after both of its batteries – especially the 12-volt battery for all of the important systems that make it work. Lee Puffett adds: “Charging up the car regularly will top up the 12-volt battery as it charges differently to an ICE car. Pre-conditioning the car’s cabin temperature while it’s on charge is a big help, and you can also use a ‘trickle’ charger if you know the car will be parked up for longer periods, such as when you go on holiday.” Because the 12-volt battery is so important for EVs to function, Start Rescue advises any EV driver to read the vehicle’s manual to learn how to maintain the 12-volt battery’s charge. You can also ask a dealer for advice. Lee Puffett sums up: “There are so many electric vehicles with differing operating systems that it’s vital you learn how to maintain your EV’s 12-volt battery to avoid a breakdown.” Start Rescue has a 4.4-star rating on Trustpilot, a five-star Defaqto* rating and has achieved Which? Recommended Provider status for five years running. Start Rescue has also been awarded best Breakdown Cover provider in the Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards 2024 (www.finder.com), scoring 4.9 out of 5 for overall satisfaction with a 94% recommendation rate. In the What Car? Survey of Best Breakdown Cover, Start Rescue came top for best response time, reaching 77% of call-outs in 30 minutes to an hour and didn’t leave anyone waiting for more than two hours. Start Rescue also won best in the survey for performing temporary repairs that let people continue with their journeys. Launched in 2009, Start Rescue is an integral part of the nation’s fourth largest breakdown and recovery service, Call Assist, which now has more than two million UK customers. For further breakdown advice, please visit startrescue.co.uk.