by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- ‘Opposites United’ is Kia’s design philosophy for all future vehicles
- Philosophy formed of five pillars: ‘Bold for Nature’, ‘Joy for Reason’, ‘Power to Progress’, ‘Technology for Life’, and ‘Tension for Serenity’
- EV6 exterior design characterised by high-tech details
- Modern and spacious interior design made possible by Kia’s first dedicated EV platform (E-GMP)
Kia Corporation has today revealed the first images of the exterior and interior design of EV6, its first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), ahead of the car’s world premiere later this month.
EV6 was designed under the brand’s new design philosophy ‘Opposites United’, which takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity. At the centre of the design philosophy is a new visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylish elements and sculptural shapes.
Boasting a distinctive crossover-inspired design and based on the brand’s new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), EV6 is Kia’s first dedicated BEV to be influenced by the new design philosophy, which embodies Kia’s shifting focus towards electrification.
“EV6, as the first dedicated Kia EV, is a showcase of human-centred, progressive design and electrified power. We strongly believe EV6 is a compelling and relevant model for the new EV market,” said Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center. “With EV6 we aimed to create a distinctive, impactful design by using a combination of sophisticated, high-tech features on pure and rich volumes, while providing a unique space as a futuristic EV.”
Opposites United: a design philosophy for all future Kia vehicles
The Opposites United design philosophy makes its debut on EV6, and will inform the design of all future Kia models. The philosophy is based on five key design pillars: ‘Bold for Nature’, ‘Joy for Reason’, ‘Power to Progress’, ‘Technology for Life’, and ‘Tension for Serenity’.
Bold for Nature is based on interaction with nature, informed by the details, shapes and proportions found both in the natural and human worlds. This design pillar creates organic, yet technical structures and finishes for vehicle interiors; exterior designs are characterised by a combination of clear and simple lines with bold, ever-changing surfaces.
Joy for Reason focuses on the feel and ambience of Kia’s future vehicles. Future designs will fuse the emotional with the rational, creating vehicles that influence the mood of passengers, by relaxing and inspiring. It will also influence the adoption of new organic materials and more daring colours, expressing a sense of youth and playfulness.
Power to Progress builds on the brand’s current design strengths. By drawing on and developing the skills and expertise learned throughout Kia’s recent era of design-led transformation, the designs and layouts of the brand’s future products will continue to evolve. Future designs will draw on experience and creativity to invent and innovate new designs.
Technology for Life embraces new technologies and innovations to foster positive interactions between humans and machines. The brand’s future vehicles will adopt a next-generation in-car user experience (UX) through design, innovation and advancements in lighting, feel and in-car connectivity – to help customers engage with their cars.
Tension for Serenity evokes the tension between opposing forces and creative contrasts, and recognises the design equilibrium that comes from two opposing forces. It delivers striking design concepts that use sharp, highly technical details to create surface tension – and realise a harmonised, future-orientated design vision.
“We want our products to deliver an instinctive and natural experience that improves the daily lives of our customers. Our aim is to design the physical experience of our brand and to create original, inventive and exciting electric vehicles. The ideas of our designers and the purpose of the brand are becoming more connected than ever, with our customers at the centre of what we do and influencing every decision that we make,” added Karim Habib.
More detail on the ‘Opposites United’ philosophy is revealed in a Kia design manifesto film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqrfx2GzOYE
Exterior design: a future-orientated EV design characterised by high-tech details
The exterior design of EV6 is a powerful representation of ‘Power to Progress’. An evolution of the brand’s strengths in design, EV6 is a culmination of skills and expertise collected throughout Kia’s design-led transformation; investigating the future and beyond.
At the front, characteristic daytime running lights display a sleek, modern appearance. They form part of the car’s ‘Digital Tiger Face’, a design progression evoking the spirit of Kia’s ‘Tiger Nose Grille’ for the electrified era. The design of the lamps also includes a ‘sequential’ dynamic light pattern. Below this, a low air intake visually widens the front of the car, accentuating its high-tech image. Part of the optimisation of air flow from the front, the air is channelled through and under the car’s flat floor for optimum aerodynamics.
The side profile displays a crossover-inspired design aesthetic, which is modern, sleek and aerodynamic. This contrasts with sharp lines and high-tech details to create a sense of tension in the design. A swept-back windshield provides dynamism and purpose, while bold rear haunches add volume. A character line runs along the bottom of the doors curving upwards towards the rear wheel arches, visually elongating the profile of the car.
Designed in part to realise ultimate aerodynamic performance, the rear displays a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert, which visually widens the window glass. Above this sits a prominent roof spoiler that channels air down towards a raised lower spoiler that sits atop the car’s unique rear light cluster.
EV6 is the result of a collaborative effort between all three studios in Kia’s global design network in Namyang (Korea), Frankfurt (Germany), and Irvine (California, US).
Interior design: a modern and spacious interior for the EV era
A distinct product of the EV era, the interior design is liberated by Kia’s dedicated E-GMP platform, which offers increased space compared to previous Kia EVs based on existing model architecture. EV6’s interior design profiles an innovative use of space, creating a unique spatial and driving experience.
One of the most striking elements of the new interior is a seamless high-tech curved high-definition audio visual and navigation (AVN) screen. The simple form language of the wide curved screen and the slim dashboard give the space an open feel. Extending from the steering wheel across to the centre of the car, it displays an instrument cluster in front of the driver, with infotainment and navigation above the centre console. The width of the screen creates an immersive experience for the driver, while a minimal number of physical buttons offer an uncluttered and soothing driving experience.
Underneath the AVN screen, passengers control HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) settings by using haptic ‘buttons’, while below this panel the dashboard slopes away towards the front of the car, creating a sense of space and openness for the front-seat passengers.
The seats are slim, lightweight and contemporary, and clad in modern, visually interesting and robust fabrics created using recycled plastics, which create yet greater openness in the cabin.
EV6 will make its world premiere in March 2021, during a special online event.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
Planned solar farm expansion would nearly triple renewable energy generation at Nissan Sunderland Plant
– Proposal would generate enough power to build every Nissan LEAF sold in Europe, as Nissan heads towards a carbon-neutral future
– Consultation with local community begins this week
Nissan has today announced plans for a major expansion to renewable energy generation at its record-breaking plant in Sunderland, UK.
Complementing the plant’s existing wind turbines and solar farm, the proposed 20MW solar farm extension represents a further step in Nissan’s path to carbon neutrality.
If approved, the 37,000-panel extension would result in 20% of the plant’s energy coming from all onsite renewables, enough to build every single zero-emission Nissan LEAF sold in Europe.
The plans are to be shared with the local community this week, ahead of a formal planning application being submitted.
Alan Johnson, Vice President Manufacturing at Nissan Sunderland, said: “Renewables have already made a big difference to our business and we continue to look for ways to make the manufacturing process more sustainable.
“As our products made in Sunderland become increasingly electrified, our manufacturing operations are an important part of the ecosystem that will take us to carbon neutrality.”
Nissan began integrating renewable energy sources in Sunderland in 2005 when the company installed its first wind turbines on site. These 10 turbines contribute 6.6MW power, with the existing 4.75MW solar farm installed in 2016. The proposed 20MW solar farm extension would take the total output of renewables to 32MW at the plant.
The solar farm is being developed and installed by partner company Engenera. The first step in the process is a community consultation which starts this week, with a full planning application expected to follow later this year.
Nissan has set itself the goal to achieve carbon neutrality across the company’s operations and the life cycle of its products by 2050. As part of this effort, by the early 2030s every all-new Nissan vehicle offering in key markets will be electrified, as well as introducing innovations in electrification and manufacturing technology.
Nissan launched LEAF, the world’s first mass-market all-electric vehicle, more than ten years ago. Today it is driven by more than 180,000 EV enthusiasts across Europe.
During that time LEAF owners have prevented a massive 2.5 million tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere every year, while covering enough kilometres to drive around the earth 400,000 times.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- On March 15 Jaguar will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the iconic E-type, which was an instant sensation from launch and synonymous with the Swinging Sixties
- Jaguar Classic is creating six limited-edition matched pairs of restored 3.8 E-types inspired by the iconic ‘9600 HP’ and ‘77 RW’ examples from the sports car’s 1961 Geneva launch – each pair known as the E-type 60 Collection
- Six ‘9600 HP’ inspired E-type 60 Edition fixed-head coupés are finished in unique Flat Out Grey paintwork with Smooth Black leather interior and 1961 tribute details
- Six E-type 60 Edition roadsters mirror ’77 RW’ with unique Drop Everything Green paintwork and a Suede Green leather interior and 1961 tribute details
- Bespoke design elements include a commemorative E-type 60 logo, which adorns the bonnet badge, fuel cap, chassis plate and clock face in the tachometer developed in conjunction with Julian Thomson, Jaguar Design Director
- Custom-designed engraved centre consoles by artist King Nerd celebrate the epic road trips undertaken by Jaguar test driver Norman Dewis and PR man Bob Berry to get the E-types to the 1961 launch
- Each E-type 60 Edition features a specially-developed close-ratio five-speed manual gearbox, mated to the 3.8-litre in-line six-cylinder Jaguar XK engine
- Subtle enhancements for added usability include the Jaguar Classic Infotainment System with satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity, stainless steel exhaust system, electronic ignition and cooling upgrade with alloy radiator
- In Summer 2022, the six customers and their guests will take part in a once-in-a-lifetime Coventry-to-Geneva drive experience with their cars to create their own E-type memories
- Customer enquiries for Jaguar Classic should be made using: www.jaguar.com/classic, +44 (0) 2476 566 600, sales@classic-jaguarlandrover.com
- For regular updates from Jaguar Classic, including the progress of the E-type 60 Collection, follow the official @Jaguar.Classic account on Instagram
Jaguar Classic has unveiled its first matched pair of E-type 60 Collection cars, and revealed full specification details for the 12 expertly restored and sympathetically uprated 3.8-litre E-types built to celebrate 60 years of the iconic sports car.
The E-type made its world debut in Geneva, Switzerland on 15 March 1961. The public reaction to the lone coupé available for test drives was so strong that Jaguar rushed a second E-type, a roadster, from Coventry to Geneva overnight.
Six decades later, the E-type 60 Collection pays tribute to these two legendary cars: the Opalescent Gunmetal Grey coupé ‘9600 HP’, driven ‘flat out’ by Bob Berry to make the launch itself, and the British Racing Green roadster ’77 RW’, driven by Norman Dewis who was told to ‘drop everything’ to get to Geneva the next day.
The E-type 60 Collection cars, which are sold as a pair (one E-type 60 Edition coupé, one E-type 60 Edition roadster) are finished in exclusive Flat Out Grey and Drop Everything Green paint colours respectively. These colour formulations are inspired by the original 1961 colours and won’t be used on any other Jaguar.
The cars also feature a range of unique E-type 60 design elements developed in conjunction with Julian Thomson, Jaguar Design Director; subtle enhancements for improved usability and driveability including a five-speed manual gearbox and enhanced cooling; plus the Jaguar Classic Infotainment System with built-in satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.
The most distinctive visual highlight for each of the specially produced cars is an engraving by artist and designer King Nerd on the centre console of each car, recalling the drive routes from Coventry to Geneva of those original cars. Each piece of art takes more than 100 hours to create by hand, in consultation with the owner.
Dan Pink, Director, Jaguar Classic, said: “Sixty years after its unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1961, the talented team at Jaguar Classic are releasing the ultimate birthday present to the E-type: The E-type 60 Collection. The attention to detail demonstrates how this project has been a labour of love for our designers, engineers, craftspeople and partners. Exquisite detailing combined with enhanced usability ensure these E-types will be coveted and enjoyed for decades to come by their discerning owners, starting with a once-in-a-lifetime Coventry to Geneva pilgrimage for our six customers and their guests in Summer 2022.”
Restored and refined by the experts at Jaguar Classic in Coventry, the E-type 60 Collection cars combine flawless quality and exceptional engineering know-how.
The most significant mechanical upgrade is a specially-developed five-speed manual gearbox which features synchromesh on all ratios, helical cut gears and a reinforced cast aluminium casing for enhanced reliability and greater durability as well as closer gear ratios and smoother changes.
The 265bhp 3.8-litre six-cylinder XK engine benefits from an authentic 1961-style alloy radiator, with electric cooling fan and electronic ignition for everyday usability, as well as a polished stainless steel exhaust system. This new exhaust system is dimensionally identical to the standard mild steel system but produces a slightly deeper tone and offers greater longevity.
The highlight of the visual enhancements is a unique piece of metal engraving created by prominent artist and world-leading engraver, King Nerd. Johnny ‘King Nerd’ Dowell has inscribed the stainless steel centre consoles of the 12 cars with a bespoke etching relevant to each E-type 60 Edition.
Each Smooth Black leather-trimmed coupé features a stylised route map plotting the key locations along the route taken by Bob Berry, with an overhead sketch of the
E-type and the words, ‘I thought you’d never get here’, recalling the reaction of Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons to Bob’s arrival just minutes before the unveiling.
For the six Suede Green leather-trimmed roadsters, the engraving tracks the route taken by Dewis on his last-minute drive to Switzerland, with a sketch of the car and another Lyons’ quote – this time his instructions to Norman: ‘Drop everything and bring the open top E-type over.’
Johnny Dowell, artist and designer ‘King Nerd’, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to design and engrave the stories of two epic drives by two Jaguar legends in these iconic and special cars. A permanent reminder of the anniversary, everywhere these E-types go, the memory of Bob Berry and Norman Dewis will travel with them.”
In addition to the centre console, the bonnet badge, clock face within the tachometer, fuel cap and chassis plate are all finished with a commemorative E-type 60 logo created by Jaguar Design, featuring the years ‘1961-2021’. A light beech-rimmed steering wheel, as fitted to 1961 cars, features a 24-carat gold horn push.
Every car is supplied with a tailor-made E-type 60 car cover, tool roll and jack storage bags to complete the enhancements and exemplify the attention to detail lavished on each vehicle.
In Summer 2022, the six customers and their guests will take part in the ultimate E-type pilgrimage; a Coventry-to-Geneva drive experience with their cars to create their own E-type memories, enjoying breath-taking scenery, epic roads – including iconic Alpine passes – exclusive stays and fine cuisine throughout the trip.
– ENDS –
Notes to Editors
About Jaguar Classic
Jaguar Classic is the official source of authentic cars, expert services, genuine parts and unforgettable experiences for classic Jaguar enthusiasts worldwide. Our team of highly-skilled engineers at the Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works facility in Coventry specialises in outstanding E-type Reborn restorations and building exclusive New Original Jaguar Continuation cars.
All enquiries from prospective Jaguar Classic customers should be directed to:
sales@classic-jaguarlandrover.com / +44 (0) 2476 566 600 / www.jaguar.com/classic
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- Offered directly from Rowan Atkinson CBE – 1964 Ford Falcon FIA Race Car
- One of just four ‘Centenary’ Listers is the Chevrolet ‘Knobbly’ Sanction II
- ASCARI A410 LMP900 Le Mans Prototype Package
- Superbly presented is the 1988 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth Group A Touring Car
The Race Retro Live Online Auction catalogue is filled with a number of unrepeatable competition cars including this 1964 Ford Falcon FIA Race Car offered directly from Rowan Atkinson CBE.
The distinctive FIA-spec is finished in the classic period colour of Turquoise and is eligible for the Masters, HSCC, HRDC and all pre-’65 FIA Series in Europe. Silverstone Auctions are extremely proud to be offering this in their Race Retro sale on his behalf. This unique and special example benefits from being road registered, which means the possibility of Tours and Historic rally events also exists which is splendidly timed with the start of the season just around the corner!
Another brilliant competition car going under the hammer in their first sale of 2021 is this 1989 FIA Lister-Chevrolet ‘Knobbly’ Sanction II ‘Centenary’ Sports Racer. This example is one of just four ‘Centenary’ Listers built by Brian Lister in 1989 with a clear history from new, and for considerably less than a period car or a newly built example. Silverstone Auctions are offering a very rare chance to own a fantastically prepared Lister.
Gary Dunne Sales Controller for Silverstone Auctions added “We are absolutely delighted to be offering Rowan Atkinson CBE 1964 Ford Falcon. It is a privilege and real honour to include the Race Car alongside our superb examples. Just two weeks to go! Don’t forget to register your bid!”
Also included within their catalogue is the ASCARI A410 LMP900 Le Mans Prototype Package. The package consists of A. 1 x Complete Race Car. Chassis 001. B. 2 x Rolling chassis spare. C. Spare parts. D. Body spares. E. Moulds. F. 2 gearboxes and spares. The cars come with all necessary tooling to re-manufacture everything. The company took its name from Italian racing driver Alberto Ascari, who was the first double Grand Prix world champion. Silverstone Auctions are offering this amazing opportunity including everything you need to run a team of Ascari A410s.
Superbly presented, immaculately engineered, and now race ready is this 1988 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth Group A Touring Car. This fantastic example has been built in recent years and it is a very exciting proposition along with being tremendous value. There are now great opportunities to race these cars around Europe at great circuits with thrilling competition – experience Group A Touring Cars at their very best.
Silverstone Auctions are offering dedicated, one-to-one, virtual viewing of cars of interest to you from now through to the 26th March. Viewing the cars in person is permitted to specialists who have been instructed to inspect vehicles of interest on your behalf and members of the trade. Bookings are arranged by appointment and this should be made by calling 01926 691141.
Silverstone Auctions have now closed their catalogue. Bidding for The Race Retro Live Online Auction is available online (with either Proxibid or The Saleroom), by phone or via commission – all of which you do from the comfort of your home. To register to their new website, complete the process here at least 48 hours prior to the auction. The UK market leader classic car auction house can be contacted on can be contacted on 01926 691141, by email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com or via their website.
IMAGES
1964 Ford Falcon FIA Race Car
1989 FIA Lister-Chevrolet ‘Knobbly’ Sanction II ‘Centenary’ Sports Racer.
ASCARI A410 LMP900 Le Mans Prototype Package
1988 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth Group A Touring Car
For high resolution copies of the images please get in touch with the PR contact below
2021 AUCTIONS
The Race Retro Live Online Auction: 27th & 28th March
The May Sale: 22nd May
A Sale of Ferraris in association with Ferrari Owner’s Club GB: 5th June
The Classic Sale at Silverstone: 30th July – 1st August
The NEC Classic Motor Show Sale: 12th – 14th November
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- ŠKODA Motorsport honours 120th anniversary of motorsport debut with special production series of the successful ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo
- Only 12 ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 have been produced and include extra technical features, additional accessories and special livery
- ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 offers main performance enhancing upgrades seen in the 2021 ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo
To honour its 120th anniversary in racing, ŠKODA Motorsport has created the exclusive ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120. Only 12 limited edition versions of the successful rally car will be available.
The ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 offers the majority of technical upgrades introduced for the 2021 ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo, complemented by additional equipment, a special livery and exclusive accessories. Orders for the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 are open.
In 2021, ŠKODA celebrates its 120th motorsport anniversary. Over the decades, the Mladá Boleslav based company went from long distance races with motorbikes, to hill climbs, circuit racing and rallies on four wheels. On the way, ŠKODA collected countless victories, most recently dominating the WRC2/WRC2 Pro category of the FIA World Rally Championship.
To honour the brand’s 120 years of racing tradition, ŠKODA Motorsport presents a limited edition of its successful customer rally car. The ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 will be sold in twelve units only. Each of them will not only include the majority of the technical upgrades of the 2021 ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo, it also comes with a variety of extra features. In addition to the standard equipment of the newest model, the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 includes a set of green painted magnesium wheels and a full pod of extra LED lights plus LED corner lights.
An additional full package of extra internal accessories based on factory crews experience is part of the standard configuration. This includes storage bags or nets for personal belongings, tools, spare parts or additional equipment. More comfort improving accessories like camel bags for drinking water, bottles for car liquids, belts, holders and much more complete the package of extras. The limited edition equipment also brings a unique Edition 120 welcome screen for both monitors in the cockpit, a special car livery plus a plaque identifying the production number. A certificate of authenticity, useful ŠKODA merchandise like a backpack and an exclusive ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo model car (1:18 scale) with identical looks round up the special offer.
“The limited production ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 is an all-inclusive version of the 2021 upgraded car. With the package of improved parts, it not only offers a further developed version of our championship winning car. With its exclusive features, the limited Edition 120 is also a veritable collector’s car,” says Michal Hrabánek, Head of ŠKODA Motorsport.
The ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 features all non-optional contents of the general 2021 upgrade package. These updates concern the improved engine, where the goal for the technicians was to improve the gas exchange and mixture preparation in the combustion chamber. This was realised with a newly designed and more efficient intercooler, optimised exhaust manifold, new valve timing as well as a new setup of the electronic mapping. These modifications improve the overall performance and characteristics of the engine as well as increase the maximum power output by two kW up to 214 kW, depending on fuel quality. Newly calibrated dampers provide even better traction and car stability on all types of surfaces, giving the driver more trust in the car.
Next to even better performance improved reliability was a major topic for the 2021 upgrades of the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo. A stronger rear axle subframe minimizes the risk of damage on rough roads. For the gravel version of the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo a special cooling device for the rear brakes, originally homologated for tarmac use only, will be included. The engine of the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo in 2021 spec – and thus of the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 – is equipped with a redesigned lubrication system with improved function in dynamic modes. Modifications include a newly designed intake strainer and optimized geometry of baffle plates in the oil sump to improve turbocharger oil feeding and its reliability. Another result of these changes is a reduced oil level. Newly arranged steering wheel buttons, up to eight for different functions, as well as a redesigned mounting for the jack further improve crew comfort. All upgrade parts for the latest version of the ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo are already homologated.
Buyers of the limited ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120 can choose to add more options. These include a longer gear set, which makes the gearbox better suitable for rallies with high average speed by increasing the top speed to 202 kph. Especially for low grip surfaces, ŠKODA Motorsport also offers a third set of differential ramps (48/70), which can be used both on gravel and tarmac stages.
