The ever-entertaining Audi | Behind the Rings podcast goes into Interstellar Overdrive this week as it welcomes a bonafide rock legend: Nick Mason, Pink Floyd drummer and car lover.
In the episode, Nick Mason – the Music of Motoring, host Alex Goy talks to Nick about his twin passions of music and motorsport, which have seen him play on some of the biggest selling and most critically acclaimed albums of all time, as well as competing successfully in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans.
What came first, his love of music or cars? Is there a parallel between them? Where does his passion for racing come from? What was it like to compete at Le Mans? Nick reveals his Saucerful of Secrets.
He also talks about his extensive car collection, which includes one of Steve McQueen’s former rides, as well as the time he drove an authentic reconstruction of the original 1939 Auto Union Silverarrow at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Audi | Behind the Rings is one of the most talked-about new podcasts of 2021. The previous episodes; Vorsprung durch Technik – Past, Present and Future, Design – Inspired by Audi, Electrifying Motorsport – A New Era, Electrification – Leading the Charge, and Driving Into The Future, are still available for download. Two further episodes dissecting Audi-related subjects will land at weekly intervals.
Audi | Behind the Rings is available for free download or streaming. Find each episode or subscribe at Apple podcasts, Google podcasts or Spotify.
Full reveal, specification and images of young entrepreneur Marc Philipp Gemballa’s first completely bespoke production-ready off-road capable supercar, named MARSIEN
Inspired by the legendary Paris Dakar rally era, the MARSIEN enables the ultimate driving experience for both on and of road use, creating a completely new supercar segment
The vehicle has been developed in collaboration with internationally-renown automotive partners including performance exhaust manufacturer Akrapovič, suspension pioneer KW Automotive and Porsche engine specialist RUF Automobile
MARSIEN, formerly known as ‘Project Sandbox’, perfectly blends all the comforts of a modern-day supercar with incomparable off-road capabilities
A flawless combination of futuristic yet timeless design and cutting-edge technology
Today, Marc Philipp Gemballa has revealed its off-road capable, bespoke supercar to the world and confirmed its production name: MARSIEN.
With his newly founded company MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH (not associated in any form with Gemballa GmbH), the 27-year-old entrepreneur and son of late Uwe Gemballa has launched his very first production ready supercar named MARSIEN starting a new era in 2021.
A NEW ERA BEGINS Growing up in an environment where building the fastest and most powerful production car on the planet and setting the next world record on the Nürburgring was key, now over a decade down the road, the market has changed radically. Marc Philipp believes the horsepower game is over, that tuning is done by the OEMs themselves and that the market is constantly being flooded with an influx of new supercars with brandishing hyped horsepower figures. Marc Philipp realised, when aiming to build a successful company for the future and not just toss the next imitator product onto the market, he needed to come up with something very special for his clients.
AN ENTIRELY NEW CONCEPT – DEFINING A NEW SUPERCAR SEGMENT Inspired by the legendary Paris Dakar rally era and more than two years of intense design and engineering development has resulted in the young entrepreneur’s first project: an ultra-modern yet timeless looking supercar.
The new concept of the vehicle forms a hybrid between a modern-day supercar with all its comfort and day-to-day practicality combined with off-road capabilities enabling the ultimate driving experience for both on and off-road with the latest technologies.
BASED ON THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY Looking for the latest cutting-edge platform featuring state-of-the-art technology for their first project and with the need of the base vehicle to be equipped with a modern and sophisticated all-wheel drive system to master the intense challenges in the off-road terrain, the all-new Porsche 992 Turbo S provided the perfect base to realise the young entrepreneur’s vision.
Manufactured in Germany, tested in the sand dunes of the Arabian desert and available to clients worldwide, production is limited to just 40 units with more than half of the small series production sold prior to launch.
THE NAME – MARSIEN With its outstanding design, cutting-edge technology and strong performance, the name of the vehicle needed the right moniker to capture its unique qualities and reflect the characteristics and DNA of the vehicle.
During the intense test phase in the beautiful Al Faya desert, the development team was amazed by the stunning red desert sand in combination with the sharp fossil rocks and mountain backdrops shaping the landscape of the desert making it very special and unlike any other. “We felt like as if we were in an entirely different universe,” says Marc Philipp Gemballa. The Al Faya desert located in the emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates has been famous ever since for its unique and extremely red desert sand and Mars-like environment visually. “Since it looked and felt like we were on Mars paired with the futuristic design and the vehicle’s off-road capabilities, we couldn’t think of a more fitting name for our first project.” The name ‘MARSIEN’ was born – derived from the French word ‘Martian’ or ‘from Mars’.
THE EXTERIOR – HOLISTIC The MARSIEN features a full carbon fibre body. All exterior components are produced in pure carbon fibre, exclusively designed for performance, light weight and cooling. Each body panel is manufactured by a leading German carbon fibre specialist who also supplies leading OEM supercar manufacturers and several leading Formula one teams.
For the design, Marc Philipp Gemballa left nothing to chance and brought on board designer and Porsche aficionado Alan Derosier, known for his stunning Porsche 908 design study, who has been responsible for the ultra-modern yet timeless looking design of the MARSIEN. His artistry can be found in every smooth curve and sophisticated lines of the MARSIEN’s spectacular and timeless design.
Besides the full carbon fibre body, the exterior features functional design upgrades such as a completely bespoke taillight. Featuring the latest LED technology, the rear light has been developed together with light specialist GERG Lighthouse, enabling a completely holistic design appearance of the MARSIEN.
The shape of the MARSIEN had to prove its aerodynamic efficiency and undergo intensive CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis. A development effort that is crucial for optimum driving dynamics at all speeds, efficiency, and maximum safety. A task which has been accomplished by engineering partner KLK, who has gained expertise in developing aerodynamics for LMP1, Formula E, and Formula One racing teams for over 20 years.
The MARSIEN is currently undergoing full road homologation process by renown and certified German technical service provider FAKT, who has been integrally involved in the development of the body. Marc Philipp Gemballa’s technical team are working hand in hand with FAKT to ensure the vehicle successfully passes the relevant crash tests required for approval and road homologation in Europe (including Switzerland), Middle East, the USA, as well as other major global markets in the future.
The exterior paint is applied by a state-of-the-art and certified paint shop via a team that is able to fulfil the most daring customer colour requests. The launch vehicle has been painted in an elaborate tripe layer pearl white with special metallic flakes and received additional protection through a ceramic coating.
Combined with the standard exposed carbon fibre components such as the front splitter with side flaps, side sills, wing mirrors, the air intakes and outtakes, decklid as well as the exhaust frame and rear diffuser with rear flaps; the conversion has been created to take a sophisticated and overall dynamic appearance. There is also the offer a fully exposed carbon fibre body on request as part of its special options list. For the ones this is not enough, there is also the option to have a fully exposed carbon fibre body.
THE DRIVETRAIN – POWERED BY RUF A truly bespoke vehicle requires a unique powertrain of the highest quality. Consequently, Marc Philipp Gemballa teamed up with legendary Porsche engine specialist RUF Automobile for the engine development of the MARSIEN. Founded in 1981, RUF Automobile is known for its Porsche engine expertise, having already worked with Marc’s father Uwe Gemballa to produce powertrains for various vehicles in the 1980s.
The engine upgrade ‘POWERED BY RUF’ enables the six-cylinder boxer engine to deliver over 750 horsepower and 930 Newton meters of torque. “Despite the enormous power reserves, the engine complies with the latest EURO 6 emissions regulations and has been subject to the strictest WLTP and RDE tests,” explains Moritz Renner, technical director of MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH.
For clients that are looking for even more power, there is second stage power upgrade by RUF Automobile taking the engine up to 830 hp with enhanced VTG turbo chargers and a revised ECU mapping and transmission setting.
The engine is protected from overheating even under extreme conditions. The airflow of the central radiator has been completely redesigned, now directing the hot air from the radiator through a NACA duct over the carbon fibre bonnet and around the A-pillars, to the rear of MARSIEN.
BMC, the air filter specialist based in Italy has developed an air filter insert that is uniquely fitted for the dusty conditions in the desert. While protecting the engine from dust and foreign particles, it maintains a sufficient flow of fresh air to allow the engine to work optimally. With innovative technology and first-class design, the drivetrain is singularly equipped for the MARSIEN.
The Porsche PDK transmission has also been revised and adapted to the new conditions so that the enormous power reserves arrive at all four wheels without loss consistently. Extended driveshafts have been developed with reinforced Porsche Cayenne joints to reliably enable the enormous spring deflection and the engine’s high torque.
For the sound of the vehicle, the leading performance exhaust manufacturer Akrapovič has developed an entirely new titanium exhaust system exclusively for the project, focusing on a bespoke sound experience, light in weight and further increasing the power output of the RUF Automobile-upgraded boxer engine.
CUTTING EDGE SUSPENSION AND CHASSIS TECHNOLOGY For the suspension the young entrepreneur teamed up for a technological partnership with the leading suspension and chassis technology pioneer KW Automotive. Together the two companies have developed a bespoke suspension system, which has been exclusively created for the MARSIEN. The off-road capable supercar has had extensive changes to the chassis of its base vehicle including a completely new developed double wishbone front suspension setup equipped with KW Automotive’s solid piston damper technology, featuring an intelligent active damper control as well as an adjustable ride height system for on road and off-road use.
At the touch of a button, the adjustable ride height system enables an electronically controlled hydraulic lift increasing the ride height from Turbo S on road level, up to an overall ground clearance of 250 mm, enabling the ultimate on and off-road driving experience.
Due to the Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) system, the compression and rebound forces of the dampers are optimally adjusted in real-time, ensuring immediate response behaviour. Each damper contains two electromagnetic proportional valves that regulate the forces separately and adjust the damper forces within just 20 milliseconds perfectly to any driving situation, no matter which terrain – be it on snow, sand, or the worst dirt road imaginable.
Furthermore, the driver can choose between several driving modes via the drive mode knob on the steering wheel, which automatically adjusts damper, transmission setting, engine mapping, as well as the ride height accordingly for the selected drive mode. Besides the standard Porsche modes, the new off-road modes include gravel, mud, sand, and snow – always protected by solid aluminium skid plate, covering the entire underbody of the vehicle.
For perfect driving conditions in both on road and off-road mode, the MARSIEN comes with two specially designed forged aluminium wheel sets with centre locking system, running on Michelin Ultra High Performance (UHP) tyres for on road and All Terrain tyres for off-road use.
And for the drivers looking for the ultimate off-road experience and don’t mind limited road usability, there will be an optional off-road package equipped with Reiger Suspension rally specification off-road dampers further enhancing the suspension travel and increasing the ground clearance to a fixed off-road ride height.
GRANTING BESPOKE INTERIOR DREAMS The MARSIEN’s interior design echoes the elegance of the exterior. The conversion comes with a full leather or Alcantara interior handcrafted with the highest quality of materials, equipped with a bespoke Carrera GT-inspired lifted carbon fibre middle console, as well as GT style door lashes, carbon fibre side sills, and further carbon fibre accents throughout the interior with the ability to full customisation.
The interior is an example of the fine balance between form and function, with tasteful hand-stitching of the logo and paddles for manual gear switching. Similar stitching can be found on the floor mats and headrest, while the logo is imprinted on the fire extinguisher and the armrest.
Finally, the metal plaque displaying the individual production number of the limited series of just 40 bespoke vehicles is embedded in the carbon fibre centre console – giving a special touch to the cabin. These small details give the interior its unmistakable character, while the MPG yellow sets the tone.
Prior to the world premiere of ‘Project Sandbox’, the MARSIEN has already been in high demand: besides the exclusive launch edition, limited to only ten units, more than half of the small series production series has sold out before the official launch, leaving only a few of the original 40 vehicles available, while MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH is preparing for the start of serial production later this year.
The price for conversion starts at EUR 495,000 net excluding taxes, duties, shipping, plus any special options and the cost of the Porsche 992 Turbo S base vehicle.
Double wishbone front suspension Multi-link rear suspension KW Automotive solid piston dampers with two electronic valves and semi-active Dynamic Damper and Chassis Control (KW DDCC) and adjustable ride height via Hydraulic Lift System (HLS)
Ground clearance:
250 mm in off-road mode / 120 mm in on road mode
Dimensions:
L 4714 / W 2030 / H 1450 (in off-road mode)
Wheels & Tyres:
On road wheel set – Bespoke 20″/21″ forged aluminium wheels with centre lock system in with Michelin Ultra High-Performance tyres Off-road wheel – set Bespoke 19″/20″ MPG forged aluminium wheels with centre lock system in with All Terrain tyres (Vmax 210 km/h)
Exterior:
Full carbon fibre body
Interior:
Fully bespoke full leather / Alcantara interior with carbon fibre accents
BORN AND RAISED IN A 911 With the newly founded company MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH (not associated in any form with Gemballa GmbH), the 27-year-old son of Uwe Gemballa has today launched his very first project. Born and raised in a sports car enthusiastic family, Marc Philipp developed his passion for automobiles from a very early stage. After completing his business studies at EBS University of Economics and Law, he gained automotive industry experience, working for various sports car manufacturers including Aston Martin, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche.
TIME FOR A CHANGE Marc Philipp grew up in an environment where building the fastest and most powerful production car on the planet and setting the next world record on the Nürburgring was key. But over a decade down the road, the market has changed radically. The horsepower game is over, tuning is done by the OEMs themselves, and the market is constantly being flooded with an influx of new supercars with brandishing hyped horsepower figures. Marc Philipp realized when aiming to build a successful company for the next decades – and not just toss the next imitator product onto the market, he needed to come up with something very special for his clients.
THE VISION MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH sees a new market opportunity in the creation of special design lead vehicles in a small production series – with a vision of creating holistic masterpieces – combined with a new fresh design and technology-focused approach, leaving the era of tuning behind, and ultimately achieving a USP position in the market.
More than two years of intense design and engineering development has resulted in the young entrepreneur’s first project: an ultra-modern yet timeless looking supercar forming a hybrid between a modern-day super sports car with all its comfort and day-to-day practicality, combined with off-road capabilities equipping unique people for their adventure featured by the latest and cutting-edge technologies. MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH is taking the extreme from on road to off-road, building his very first supercar combined with off-road capabilities in a limited small series.
PARTNERS Supported by a worldwide network of dealers, suppliers, and business partners and clients, Marc Philipp Gemballa is starting a new era in 2021 launching his very first project with his newly founded company MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH (not associated in any form with Gemballa GmbH). Among the carefully selected partners are designer Alan Derosier, suspension technology partner KW Automotive, engine specialist RUF Automobile, tyre manufacturer Michelin, leading performance exhaust manufacturer Akrapovič, engineering partner VELA Performance, and Aerodynamic engineers KLK Motorsport.
DELIMITATION This press release is published by MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH. MARC PHILIPP GEMBALLA GmbH is not associated in any form with Gemballa GmbH, and/or any of its subsidiaries, and/or its trademarks.
he Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar was voted winner of the illustrious Michelin Supercar Paddock Showstopper of the Festival at FOS
The all-electric Rimac Nevera hypercar and the bespoke Glickenhaus SCG 004S road car were runners up
Showstopper Award judges Jodie Kidd, Frank Stephenson, Mr JWW and Mike Fernie commended the Valkyrie’s design and pursuit of function over form, making it an instant winner
The Michelin Supercar Paddock stage saw a host of special guests and celebrities including Jenson Button, Olly Gavin, James Glickenhaus, Marek Reichman, Paul Swift, Colin Turkington, Darren Turner, Andy Wallace, Oli Webb and Matt Windle
Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, Corvette C8, Koenigsegg Regera, Ford Mach-E 1400, Ferrari SF90 and the all-new Lotus Emira were among the star cars on the Paddock stage
The all-new Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar has been declared the Michelin Supercar Paddock Showstopper of the Festival at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Michelin Supercar Paddock Showstopper award was presented to Darren Turner, Marek Reichman and the Aston Martin Valkyrie team by judges Jodie Kidd, legendary designer Frank Stephenson, Mr JWW and DriveTribe’s Mike Fernie.
Chosen for its pursuit of function over form, the judges were impressed with the hypercar’s impeccable road-going credentials, as well as its striking aerodynamic design and mind-blowing performance.
The Aston Martin Valkyrie made its global dynamic debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed and is the first hypercar the legendary British marque has ever produced. The name of the car intentionally evokes images of an otherworldly power, and its performance lives up to that billing. Featuring a huge 6.5-litre V12 hybrid engine capable of delivering 1160 horsepower in a car which is exceptionally lightweight – its 100% carbon fibre chassis and body weigh just over 1,000 kilograms – helping it achieve better than a 1:1 power to weight ratio.
The hypercar takes design and engineering cues from Formula One racing, thanks to collaborative input from Red Bull Racing’s legendary design guru Adrian Newey. The aerodynamics around the car were designed to give F1 standard of performance, downforce and handling. Capable of reaching 0-62mph in a blistering 2.5 seconds, the Valkyrie has an astonishing top speed in excess of 250mph.
The Glickenhaus 004S and the Rimac Nevera were runners up of the Michelin Supercar Paddock Showstopper Award.
Owner Dr. Cecilia Muldoon drove the Glickenhaus SCG 0004S for the first time on the Goodwood Hillclimb and came straight to the Paddock stage to showcase the unique and wonderful supercar. With a supercharged V8 delivering 650bhp, the three-seater with a central driving position and includes some amenities rare in the world of track cars, including air conditioning, Bluetooth speakers and a backup camera.
On the Michelin Supercar Paddock Stage James Glickenhaus described the car as “a road car born on the track.” Judges were extremely impressed with the car’s bespoke design, both inside and out, coupled with the vehicle’s performance and rarity. They felt it was unique and worthy of being a Showstopper finalist.
The judges were also blown away by the outstanding all-electric Rimac Nevera. The Croatian hypercar was a runner up for the award. It produces a staggering 1914 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 1.97 seconds, and from 0 to 300 kph in 9.3 seconds. Each of the Nevera’s wheels are driven by their own electric motor, and each wheel’s torque is automatically adjusted for improved handling.
Other automotive highlights from the Michelin live stage include, Lotus (Emira), Bugatti (Pur Sport), Ferrari (SF90), Porsche (GT3), Zenvo (TSR-S), Callum Design (Vanquish 25), Ford (Mach-E 1400), Corvette (C8), Mini (ePacesetter), BMW (2 Series), Mission H24 (LMPH2G), Koenigsegg (Regera), Everrati (964), The Little Car Company (Baby Bugatti).
Working alongside General Motors for the debut of the all-new RHD Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, Michelin had five-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner and Corvette Ambassador, Oliver Gavin, on the live stage to reveal the model ahead of its first-ever run up the hill. The Supercar Paddock also saw a number of guest appearances talking to presenters Vicki Butler-Henderson and Tim Harvey, including Jenson Button, Oli Webb, Andy Wallace, James Pickford, Colin Turkington, Paul O’Neill, Darren Turner, Caffeine & Machine’s Phil McGovern and Dan Macken, Charlie Cooper, Richard Westbrook, Paul Swift, Mazin and Nabil Naamo (@TopazDetailing), Zach (@Zachs_Garage) and Raziz (@RokenR).
Simply Japanese will be returning to the Beaulieu parkland on Sunday 25th July for a diverse display of Japanese cars, as part of a huge day out that all the family will enjoy, together.
One of Beaulieu’s biggest and most popular Simply rallies, the rally welcomes every age, variety and marque of Japanese vehicle, from luxury saloons and cheerful camper vans to economy hatchbacks and high-powered performance cars. A calendar highlight for thousands of owners and enthusiasts, it’s the perfect opportunity to catch-up, talk cars and admire the varied display.
Last year’s event perfectly showcased the wide variety of Japanese cars on the roads. Driving into the grounds of the National Motor Museum were well-known favourites such as the Mazda MX-5 and RX-8, Subaru Legacy and Impreza, Toyota Supra and MR2, Nissan 350Z and GT-R, while also represented in the line-up was the Nissan Cube, Suzuki Swift, Honda Integra Type R, Mitsubishi Evo and classics such as a 1983 Honda Accord and even a 1981 Datsun campervan. This year’s display promises to be equally impressive.
Event-goers can vote for their favourite Japanese car of the show in the People’s Choice Award, with the winner receiving a Beaulieu trophy and an Autoglym prize. Voting is open to all visitors until 1pm that day.
Once you’ve admired the motors on display out in the showground, make sure to head inside the recently reopened National Motor Museum. Don’t miss the charming 1935 Datsun Type 14 saloon, a rare example of one of the Japanese motor industry’s earliest products.
All tickets must be bought in advance, with carefully-managed capacity limits in place.
Normal visitor admission tickets are still available to book at www.beaulieu.co.uk. You can book your tickets with confidence thanks to Beaulieu’s Covid-19 refund policy*.
Although the capacity for rally participant tickets has been reached, Beaulieu hopes to release further tickets soon, subject to Covid-safety restrictions after the 19th July. Visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/simply-japanesefor further details or email events@beaulieu.co.uk to be added to the waiting list to be notified when further tickets are released.
With plenty for all the family to do together at Beaulieu, Simply Japanese is just one of the exciting Simply rallies planned for 2021. Coming soon are Simply Mercedes on 22nd August and Simply French on 12th September, while rescheduled are Simply Audi on 1st August and Simply Aston Martin on 21st August.
Visitor and participant tickets include entrance to all that Beaulieu has to offer, including Sculpture at Beaulieu, the National Motor Museum, Little Beaulieu, On Screen Cars, the ancestral Montagu home Palace House, Secret Army exhibition, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and the stunning grounds and gardens. Visit www.beaulieu.co.uk for more information.
* Book with confidence, knowing that we’ve got you covered with our Covid-19 refund policy. If the event is unable to take place due to Government guidance, we will happily transfer your ticket to a future event or issue you with a full refund.
Ford prepares to dial up acclaimed fun-to-drive attitude as the automaker transitions to 100 per cent all-electric passenger vehicle powertrains by 2030
Every Ford electrified passenger vehicle to continue offering exciting driving dynamics while also delivering exceptional passenger and stationary experiences
First all-electrified Ford line-up on display at Goodwood includes Mustang Mach-E GT, Team Fordzilla P1, Mustang Mach‑E 1400 and exciting motorsport news
Ford is today pledging to car enthusiasts across Europe that the acclaimed “fun-to-drive” character that has helped define generations of the automaker’s vehicles will remain at the heart of a new era of electrified and connected products.
As Ford prepares to showcase an all-electrified line-up of road, competition and concept cars for the first time at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed, West Sussex, UK, the company is doubling-down on its commitment to continue delivering the most engaging, stimulating and rewarding driving experiences for customers – whether they choose mild hybrid, full hybrid, plug-in hybrid or all‑electric powertrains.
Ford is already enhancing the driving dynamics of its passenger vehicles by harnessing the performance credentials and further benefits of ultra-responsive, high-torque electrified powertrains.
Now the company is also promising that in addition to never sacrificing stimulating driving experiences in the quest for optimised electrified efficiency, it will also expand its fun-to-drive commitment to deliver exceptional experiences for passengers, as well as to make Ford vehicles enjoyable and entertaining when stationary – such as when charging. Connected, digital experiences will be enabled by FordPass Connect modems, 1 the FordPass app 1 and sophisticated technologies including next-gen SYNC. 2
“‘Fun-to-drive’ is in Ford’s DNA. Every vehicle we make is designed to put smiles on faces. Now we’re ready to shift fun-to-drive into a new gear for the all-electric era, supported by innovative new powertrain and connectivity technologies, and starting with our all-new, all-electric Mustang Mach-E,” said Roelant de Waard, general manager, Passenger Vehicles, Ford of Europe.
Ford earlier this year announced that 100 per cent of its passenger vehicle range in Europe will be zero-emissions capable, all-electric or plug-in hybrid by mid-2026; moving to all-electric by 2030.
The Mustang Mach-E GT – the highest performing road-going version of Ford’s all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV – makes its driving debut at Goodwood this weekend where it will star on the famous hill climb. Mustang Mach-E GT produces up to 487 PS, 3 and features advanced MagneRide® 4 adaptive suspension alongside a high-performance Brembo braking system for sports car responses and agility.
Ford will also at the Goodwood Festival of Speed deliver the global public debut of the Team Fordzilla P1 concept race car – developed with collaboration between the company’s designers and the gaming community – and will reveal further exciting electrified motorsport news on July 8.
Fun from the driving seat, passenger seat, or couch Every electrified Ford passenger vehicle features innovations designed to complement optimised efficiency with enhanced driving experiences. For example:
The all-electric Mustang Mach-E GT uses its independent front and rear electric motors to deliver sophisticated all-wheel drive capability for optimised traction
Kuga Plug-In Hybrid and Kuga Hybrid feature a simulated gear-shift function designed to emulate the familiar gear-changes of a conventional automatic transmission for greater driver engagement
Puma, Fiesta and Focus EcoBoost Hybrid models incorporate a belt-driven integrated starter/generator that can use recovered energy to supplement the total torque available from the powertrain, for more responsive in-gear acceleration
In future, connected features will continue to dial up the joy of driving by dialling down the stress, enabled by integrated FordPass Connect modems. For example, Intelligent Range for Mustang Mach‑E helps reduce unplanned stops for charging by more accurately predicting how much driving range remains using past driving behaviour, weather forecasts and crowdsourced data from other Mustang Mach-E vehicles.
Ford also is testing predictive smart headlight technology 5 that uses real-time location data to directs headlight beams into upcoming corners even before drivers may have seen them, making driving more enjoyable at night.
Inventive technologies will make being a passenger in an electrified Ford vehicle an even greater experience. Selectable drive modes including Mustang Mach-E’s Whisper mode 5 are already helping make journeys more comfortable and enjoyable for passengers, building on the inherent refinement of pure-electric driving.
FordPass Connect allows connectivity for up to ten devices, helping families stream entertainment and stay connected for fun on the move. Next-gen SYNC technology uses machine learning to truly understand Mustang Mach-E owners’ routines and make navigation and communication suggestions that benefit drivers and passengers alike.
Connected technologies such as next-gen SYNC are also key to Ford’s commitment to delivering stimulating experiences even when stationary. Whether touchscreen drawing and simple gaming using Mustang Mach-E’s 15.5‑inch display, monitoring charging status and reviewing journey logs using the FordPass app, or entering your vehicle to discover new features have downloaded wirelessly via Ford Power-Up – Ford electrified vehicles will not need to be moving to be enjoyed.
Race to reality Human-centred design lies at the heart of Ford’s fun-to-drive philosophy, and the company is demonstrating at Goodwood a full-size replica of one of its most innovative examples to-date: the extreme Team Fordzilla P1 race car.
Seen for the first time in an all-new livery celebrating the 55th anniversary of Ford’s famous Le Mans 24 Hours 1-2-3 victory, the Team Fordzilla P1 is the first virtual gaming race car designed in collaboration between the gaming community and a car brand. Almost 250,000 fans voted on Twitter to choose elements including seating position, cockpit style and drivetrain to create the ultimate virtual race car, designed purely to deliver digital driving thrills.
The vehicle features a dramatic jet fighter-style canopy and combines a Ford GT-like, heavily-sculpted front end with a completely exposed rear to highlight the aerodynamics. The interior is equally radical, with LED notification units to keep the driver and passenger up-to-date on track status, while an integrated screen on the steering wheel enables live data to be shared with the pit wall.
“To build cars that customers love, you first need to truly understand what customers want. We’ve taken that thinking to extremes with the Team Fordzilla P1 race car, and we’ve applied the same innovative approach to creating our Puma ST Gold Edition that customers will actually be able to order later this year,” said Amko Leenarts, director, Design, Ford of Europe. “It’s exactly this kind of human-centred design that’s going to take us to a whole new level of fun-to-drive in the electrified era.”
In addition, Ford president and chief executive officer Jim Farley will demonstrate the true fun-to-drive potential of all-electric powertrains as he tackles the Goodwood hill climb in the unique Mustang Mach-E 1400 prototype.
The result of 10,000 hours of collaboration by Ford Performance and RTR Vehicles, the one-of-a-kind vehicle uses seven motors to deliver 1,419 PS, with a single driveshaft connecting them to differentials that have a huge range of adjustability to set the car up for everything from drifting to high-speed track racing.
The chassis and powertrain are also set up to allow investigation of different layouts and their effects on energy consumption and performance, including rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive.
1 FordPass app, compatible with selected smartphone platforms, is available via download. Message and data rates apply. FordPass Connect, the FordPass app and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass terms for details). Connected Service and features depend on Vodafone or Vodafone partner mobile network availability. Evolving technology/mobile networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected Service excludes Wi-Fi hotspot.
2 Don’t drive while distracted. Use voice-operated systems when possible; don’t use handheld devices while driving. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.
3 Calculated via peak performance of the electric motors at peak battery power. Your results may vary.
4 MagneRide® is a trademark of BWI Group.
5 Prototype headlight system not currently available for specification.
Ford Mustang Mach-E GT delivers up to 500 km WLTP homologated pure-electric driving range.
Ford Mustang Mach-E delivers up to 610 km WLTP homologated pure-electric driving range in rear-wheel drive, extended-range battery configuration.
Ford Kuga Hybrid homologated CO2 emissions 124-146 g/km and homologated fuel efficiency 5.4-6.4 l/100 km WLTP.
Ford Kuga Plug-In Hybrid homologated CO2 emissions 32 g/km, homologated fuel efficiency 1.4 l/100 km and pure-electric driving range 56 km WLTP.
Ford Puma EcoBoost Hybrid homologated CO2 emissions 119-145 g/km and homologated fuel efficiency 5.2-6.4 l/100 km WLTP.
Ford Fiesta EcoBoost Hybrid homologated CO2 emissions 110-139 g/km and homologated fuel efficiency 4.8-6.1 l/100 km WLTP.
Ford Focus EcoBoost Hybrid homologated CO2 emissions 114-138 g/km and homologated fuel efficiency 5.1-6.1 l/100 km WLTP.
CO2 emission and fuel efficiency ranges may vary according to vehicle variants offered by individual markets.
The declared WLTP fuel/energy consumptions, CO2 emissions and electric range are determined according to the technical requirements and specifications of the European Regulations (EC) 715/2007 and (EU) 2017/1151 as last amended. The applied standard test procedures enable comparison between different vehicle types and different manufacturers.
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All-new sports car has pride of place on the Lotus stand as FoS celebrates Norfolk company as its ‘Featured Marque’
All-electric Lotus Evija hypercar also making its Festival debut
‘Central Feature’ sculpture promises high levels of interactivity for fans on site or attending digitally using advanced AR technology
Lotus-developed track bike also on the FoS stand until Sunday
Fresh from a triumphant world premiere on Tuesday evening, the Lotus Emira makes its dynamic debut at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The all-new sports car, which goes into production later this year, has pride of place on the Lotus stand and is taking part in numerous runs up the iconic Hill Climb throughout the weekend. The Lotus Evija, the all-electric hypercar and the world’s most powerful production car, is also making its debut at the Festival of Speed.
Lotus is the ‘Featured Marque’ at this year’s Festival, which starts tomorrow (Thursday 8 July) and finishes on Sunday. The whole event celebrates the peerless sporting and technical achievements of Lotus. Both the Emira and Evija are taking part in Batch 6 of the Hill Climb, which is for ‘Supercars and First Glance’. Each car will compete twice a day, once in the morning and again in the afternoon. A Lotus Elise 240 Sport Final Edition and an Elise S1 are also involved.
Celebrating Lotus is the theme of the Festival’s ‘Central Feature’ – the dramatic and often highly imaginative art installation which is always created directly in front of Goodwood House. This year’s sculpture is also highly immersive, with greater-than-ever levels of accessibility for those attending the Festival both in person and digitally from all corners of the world using the latest augmented reality (AR) technology.
Inspired by Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s philosophy of ‘simplify then add lightness’, it employs the engineering concept of ‘tensegrity’ – a structural principle which creates exceptionally strong and rigid structures for their mass. Its shape evokes the ‘rooster tail’ airflow analysis of the Lotus Evija, and features the longest cantilever of its kind anywhere in the world. The impression is of a structure made more from air than actual material.
‘The Lotus Moment’ is being staged every lunchtime and is another must-see. A parade of Lotus vehicles old and new, it will include the Emira and Evija and culminate in front of Goodwood House with fireworks and cannon fire.
Festival visitors will be able to get up close and personal with the Evija and Emira – the most accomplished Lotus ever – on the Lotus stand, which is close to the Main Bridge opposite Goodwood House. Another Emira will be a regular visitor to the Michelin Supercar Paddock live stage, adjacent to the Hill Climb start line.
The third car on the Lotus stand is an Elise Sport 240 Final Edition. It’s the amazing first prize in a competition being staged by Norwich City Football Club’s Community Sports Foundation. Last month it was announced that Lotus had extended its relationship with the club and has signed as the new front-of-shirt sponsor for the 2021/22 Premier League season.
The final exhibit on the Lotus stand is unique… in that it has two wheels rather that four. Lotus Engineering, the consultancy division of the business, has collaborated with partners to develop a new track bike to help British Cycling win medals.
Simon Clare, Executive Director, Marketing, Lotus Cars, added: “Car fans all over the world have been looking forward to the 2021 Festival of Speed, having been deprived of major motoring events for so long. Whether you attend in person or are watching from home we wanted to make the Lotus experience as immersive as possible and an event to remember. From the central feature AR experience, the virtual Lotus stand online or the continuous updates across our social channels, fans will be able to enjoy the experience from anywhere in the world. Our headline billing as ‘Featured Marque’ is crowned by two of the most hotly anticipated cars, the Emira and Evija, making their Goodwood debuts. All-in-all, the Festival is the perfect representation of the future of Lotus and I’d urge everyone to get involved.”
