by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- British engineering company White Motorcycle Concepts unveils new electric motorcycle incorporating revolutionary aerodynamic concept
- Technical engineer Rob White to make attempt on British record in 2021
- WMC250EV motorcycle set to pave way for an ‘industry revolution’
- UK engineering community lays foundation for brilliant idea to thrive
White Motorcycle Concepts has unveiled a revolutionary new prototype motorcycle which company founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob White will ride when he attempts to break both the British and world electric land speed records over the next 12 months.
The WMC250EV high-speed demonstrator, White’s brainchild, is more than two years in the making and heralds a new chapter in the evolution of motorcycle technical development. It is the result of a determination to turn an inspired vision for vastly reducing aerodynamic drag into reality, having won support and recognition from all corners of Britain’s fertile motorsport engineering industry.
The prototype motorcycle, which is capable of speeds exceeding 250mph, features three market-disruptive technologies including WMC’s ultra-low drag system called V-Air. This innovation features a large duct at the centre of the bike which forces air through the vehicle, rather than around it. Incredibly, V-Air reduces the WMC250EV’s aerodynamic resistance by as much as 70% compared to that of the market-leading high performance road bike according to the results of wind-tunnel testing at MIRA.
The duct also increases the axial load on the front of the motorcycle allowing the WMC250EV utilise a D-Drive motor unit that powers the front wheel, which in-turn makes it possible to harness regenerative braking energy – something unachievable with a conventional motorcycle. Finally, the bike carries a unique F-Drive final drive system fitted to boost power and enhance efficiency; a technology that could be retrofitted to improve existing roadgoing bikes.
WMC’s concept has already been granted a UK patent and expects Europe, the USA and Japan to follow suit by the end of August. If adopted by major manufacturers, these British devised technologies have the potential to vastly reduce CO2 emissions across the industry and rapidly accelerate the mass-market de-carbonisation of motorcycles globally.
White, who has more than 25 years’ experience of world championship level motorsport, including Formula 1 and Le Mans, initially conceived his idea for V-Air six years ago, but it was exposure to Formula 1 packaging and sports car aerodynamics that gave him the confidence to pursue it seriously.
Having formed WMC in 2019, White reached into his vast network of contacts gained through his varied and successful career in the sport. Rob Lewis MBE, the owner of Total Sim and a global leader in sports aerodynamics, recognised V-Air’s potential and supported the project through the initial proof of concept. With a base established in Northamptonshire, the global centre of motorsport excellence, WMC began developing the all-carbon fibre WMC250EV High Speed Demonstrator to F1 standards of design specification, component-packaging and technology with the ambition to test its potential to the highest standard.
“If you want to demonstrate to the rest of the world that you’ve just invented a new aerodynamic concept that means you can go faster for a given power, the best thing to do is go as fast you can,” says White. “That’s why we created WMC250EV high-speed demonstrator, the most radical version of this concept, to challenge for the world land speed record. It is electric, as that is the pre-eminent zero emissions power source at the moment, but as the aerodynamic concept provides efficiency benefit, it could just as easily be hydrogen or any other future power source.
But speed is just the beginning, the concept’s more wide-reaching and important implication is the huge impact it can have on vehicular energy efficiency, which combined with the zero-emission agenda, can lead to a large reduction in CO2 emissions globally.
“The records are all champagne, but are actually the insignificant part of the story,” says White. “While this technology allows you to go faster, it also allows you to go much further for the same amount of energy. This has a direct and tangible benefit on CO2 reduction. Market-disruptive ideas like this are uncommon, and if successful, have the potential to revolutionise industry.
WMC is already working on a real-world application for the innovation and is producing a 300cc three-wheel hybrid scooter – the WMC300FR – that includes V-Air technology and reduces drag by 25%. That equates to 18% improvement in fuel efficiency, from aerodynamic improvements alone and when coupled with a small hybrid system enhances the performance to somewhere near 500cc levels, but with 50% less CO2 emissions.
“What we’ve managed to do is create something for the world market sector where people can use these vehicles in a city where the population is most effected by CO2 output and pollution – and we’ve managed to cut CO2 by 50% through aerodynamics and hybridisation.”
The land speed record programme meanwhile is fully underway, with shakedowns continuing through the summer and an attempt on the Motorcycle Electric Semi Streamliner British Record planned for later on this year. Then the focus for WMC switches to the world’s largest salt flat, the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, where White will attempt to set a new mark for the Electric Semi Streamliner World Record in July 2022.
“What started off as some sketches of an idea I was pondering, has become an initiative that can potentially change the motorcycle industry,” said White. “I’ve always loved speed, and motorcycles. The challenge of breaking the world record satisfies a tenacity to achieve great things. But more importantly, it’s the perfect way to practically demonstrate that the theory behind this technology works.
“There are other record attempts running concurrently that have superstar riders and talismanic leaders fronting the projects, but for me and WMC the star is the technology. It’s a product of British engineering ingenuity and it has a real potential to disrupt the industry in a very positive way, becoming an important step towards the mass manufacture of non-fossil fuelled motorcycles, another milestone on the road to a zero-emission future.
“The company’s ambitions are great, and we aim to constantly produce high level engineering with environmental responsibility at its core, reducing carbon emissions throughout the entire motorcycle market from design and manufacture to end use.”
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- Sutton upgrades almost double stock Mustang’s power to 850hp
- Sutton creates UK more powerful rival to Shelby GT500 in right-hand drive
- Enhanced dynamics, distinctive exterior styling and unique interior set CS850GT apart
- New high-performance Mustang priced at £115,000 on-the-road
High-performance and luxury car specialist Clive Sutton has launched its CS850GT Mustang – a comprehensive reworking of Ford’s latest 5.0-litre V8 muscle car.
Sutton created the new car in response to customer feedback who were frustrated that Ford did not manufacture a right-hand drive Shelby GT500 for the UK market.
In the Sutton CS850GT, output has been boosted to 847hp (859PS) – making it the UK’s most powerful new Mustang – almost double the 454hp (460PS) of the stock Ford Mustang. The new CS850GT boasts a custom-tuned Whipple Supercharger, intercooler and a Quad Active XFORCE exhaust that together deliver 665lb-ft (902Nm) of torque, alongside the significant power boost. With absolute driver engagement in mind, the new levels of performance are accessed by a short-shifting six-speed manual transmission.
To handle the power and deliver a rewarding driving experience, the new muscle car’s suspension and chassis have been significantly upgraded with UK and European roads in mind. Upgraded front and rear anti-roll bars, enhanced bracing and new subframe components combine with custom Vossen 20-inch wheels, uprated DBA brakes and Hawk pads to deliver new levels of dynamics to the Mustang.
Visually the new Sutton offering also raises the game. A completely reworked front end brings UK buyers a GT500-style appearance complemented by a new bumper lip, carbon fibre side rockers, and a carbon fibre rear valance that houses the quad exhausts. New colour-adjustable tri-bar headlights, plus LED side and rear lights complete the new look while enhancing visibility.
Clive Sutton, said, “Our customers demand the highest level of performance, handing and quality and I’m confident that the new CS850GT will exceed their expectations in every area. Our bespoke Mustang creation tops even the most powerful stock offering in the US, including the Shelby GT500, guaranteeing owners exclusivity and unparalleled Mustang enjoyment.”
Inside, the attention to detail continues with a Sutton red billet starter button housed within a new carbon fibre dash, which sits behind the square-bottom Sutton performance steering wheel. Owners can customise the interior fittings and colours with options that tastefully combine Alcantara and leather, accented by contrast stitching.
The new CS850GT is priced from £115,000 on-the road with a number of additional options available to personalise the car further and enhance its performance. For example, track-focused owners may opt for the Sutton carbon track spoiler while those owners seeking the most distinctive style may opt to customise the interior colours to further individualise the car.
Clive Sutton has been one of the largest importers of Ford Mustangs and Shelby Mustangs for more than 15 years. Since 2016, Sutton Bespoke has operated a specialist Mustang division with CS700 and CS800 versions of the iconic muscle car preceding today’s CS850GT. Customers can build their dream Mustang using Clive Sutton’s own configurator at suttonmustang.com.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- The Michelin Supercar Paddock will host some of the world’s rarest and fastest super, hyper and race cars at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed
- From iconic marques to revolutionary start-ups, the Michelin Supercar Paddock will feature a selection of the most exclusive and powerful automotive icons
- Already confirmed star cars are: Koenigsegg Regera, Mercedes AMG GT R Black Series, Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR and the all-electric Everrati ‘Signature’ wide body
- Michelin will have its very own Garage Car, to be revealed live on-stage when the Festival opens on Thursday 8 July
- TV star Vicki Butler-Henderson and legendary racer Tim Harvey will be on hand to discuss all of the cars with the stars on the interactive Supercar Paddock stage
- A host of special guests will select the Michelin Supercar Paddock Showstopper of the Festival Award on Saturday
The Michelin Supercar Paddock is celebrating record breakers at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed, with a number of powerful, eye-catching icons already confirmed for the event.
Home to some of the most powerful road and track specialist cars, the Michelin Supercar Paddock will be one of the most exclusive locations for fans to catch a glimpse of rarely spotted hypercar machinery. This year is set to be the most eventful to date, with an exciting line-up of celebrities, motorsport greats and esteemed automotive figures on the live stage keeping the crowds entertained.
This year’s Batch 6 Michelin Supercar Run is made up of some 70 of the finest supercars and hypercars, which are all housed within the Paddock and First Glance area at the Festival. Outside of this, Michelin has confirmed a small selection of the most desirable and hotly anticipated motors that will take pride of place in the Supercar Paddock.
These are the Koenigsegg Regera, Mercedes AMG GT R Black Series, Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR and the all-electric Everrati ‘Signature’ wide body.
Designed specifically to be one of the most prominent and exclusive in luxury megacars, the Koenigsegg Regera combines a powerful twin-turbo V8 combustion engine with three electric motors. Coupled with cutting-edge 800-volt battery power, this 1500bhp hypercar broke the 0-249-0mph (0-400-0kmh) world record in a staggering 31.49 seconds. It beat the previous record from the Swedish brand’s Agera RS, which completed it in an equally mind blowing 33.29 seconds.
Lining up alongside the Koenigsegg, the world’s fastest production car around the Nürburgring, the Mercedes AMG GT R Black Series, will also take pride of place within the Paddock. Conquering the legendary Nordschleife circuit with an astounding lap time of 6 minutes 43.616 seconds, this 720bhp powerhouse defeated the previous record by over a second on its Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tyres. Boasting a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, the Mercedes can reach 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds and has a top speed of 202mph.
The 700bhp Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR is set to appear in the Michelin Supercar Paddock. Built in cooperation with legendary outfit Manthey-Racing – recent winners of the Nürburgring 24 Hour endurance race – it became the fastest road-legal sports car around the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in 2018, completing a lap of the 20.6-kilometre-long circuit in a breath-taking time of 6 minutes 40.3 seconds.
Everrati’s stunning ‘Signature’ wide body is also set to line-up within the Paddock.
Based upon a fully restored 1991 Porsche 911 964, featuring carbon fibre body elements and a state-of-the-art 500bhp EV powertrain, coupled to a 53kWh battery pack and battery management system, the car is capable of delivering an electric, emission-free driving range of more than 150 miles and sub-4-second 0-62mph acceleration.
This year Michelin has its own dedicated garage within the Supercar Paddock, which will play host to a special car making its dynamic debut at the event. Boasting a 6.2-litre V8 and on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, the car will be unveiled live on the Michelin Supercar Paddock stage to visitors on Thursday morning.
Visitors to the Festival of Speed can expect to get up close to some of the most influential voices in the automotive world, who will join TV star Vicki Butler-Henderson, and legendary racer, Tim Harvey, on stage to discuss some of the world’s finest examples of automotive design and engineering. On Saturday at the event, a selection of special guests will select an overall winner for the Michelin Supercar Paddock Showstopper of the Festival award.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- The Finnish driver from the Alfa Romeo Racing – ORLEN Formula 1 team has conducted the final testing session on the definitive versions of the Giulia GTA and GTAm
- F1 drivers Kimi Räikkönen and Antonio Giovinazzi provided feedback on the new aerodynamic solutions developed by Alfa Romeo and Sauber Engineering
- The testing – a video of which can be viewed here – took place at the Balocco Proving Ground, the site of development and testing of all Alfa Romeo sports cars since the 1960s
Following the testing session on the Giulia GTA and GTAm last year, Kimi Räikkönen went back to the Balocco Proving Ground to personally evaluate the work done on the highest-performing sports saloon that Alfa Romeo has ever produced.
His words leave no doubts in the mind: “I really like it. We’re looking at a car that can be used on an everyday basis, but that can also be taken onto the track, one in which you can really enjoy yourself.”
The Finnish world champion analysed the changes made to the car, having provided invaluable advice and feedback on the aerodynamics in the first session, particularly the new adjustable splitter built into the new front bumper and the new manually adjustable rear wing. More general changes were also made to the overall balance guaranteed by the interaction of these new components with the diffuser and the underbody fairing. Kimi’s judgment? “It’s better at high speeds in terms of balance. It seems the front of the car is lower, making the steering faster. It’s fast, easy to drive, and responsive.” Once he takes off his racing suit and is away from the spotlight, Kimi Räikkönen is back playing the role of father, taking his children to school and believes that the Giulia GTA represents the ideal mix for everyday use and on the track.
The Alfa Romeo Racing F1 drivers lent their skills to the Alfa Romeo engineering team last October with a testing session focused on the aerodynamics and handling. With this final session the loop is now completed and the driver’s have been able to experience the results of their feedback in the development process.
Alfa Romeo entrusts Sauber Engineering with the production of most of the carbon fibre components for the GTA and GTAm, especially those that affect the aerodynamics. These include the new front bumper, the side skirts, the rear diffuser, the GTA spoiler and the GTAm aerowing. Courtesy of its manually adjustable front and rear wings, the Giulia GTAm can adapt its aerodynamic performance to any kind of track or road, or to the requests and preferences of its driver. Aerodynamic research was conducted in the wind tunnel on the wing appendages, but also on the fully faired underbody. The GTA and GTAm also benefit from a new rear diffuser capable of increasing the car’s downforce, guaranteeing excellent road holding at high speeds. The Giulia GTAm, in the most intense aerodynamic configuration, creates double the downforce of the Giulia GTA and three times the amount of the Giulia Quadrifoglio, the previous benchmark in its segment. These statistics testify the great achievements resulting from the collaboration between Alfa Romeo and Sauber engineers.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- Limited edition DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE available following the unveiling of the all new DS 4
- DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE enters as the top specification model in the DS 4 range, standing as a testament to the luxury design and innovation of the latest DS models
- DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE available as a plug-in hybrid E-TENSE model, capable of up to 30 miles of all-electric driving range, or as PureTech225 petrol variant
- The new model features some of the latest technology in the market, including DS EXTENDED HEAD-UP DISPLAY, DS IRIS SYSTEM and DS SMART TOUCH and gesture control
- DS 4 is the fourth model in the DS Automobiles range, following the DS 7 CROSSBACK, DS 3 CROSSBACK and DS 9
- Available to order now with deliveries beginning later this year
DS Automobiles has unveiled an exclusive DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE limited edition model, following the unveiling of the all-new DS 4, the latest model in the range which will be available in the UK later this year.
With a limited worldwide production run, La Premiere will be among the first DS 4’s to arrive on UK roads.
DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE sits at the top of the DS 4 range, highlighting the model’s avant-garde style and luxury savoir-faire design. Drivers have the choice of either a Lacquered Grey or Pearl Crystal bodywork with a contrasting Perla Nera Black roof. The front of the model features a distinctive black grille with chromed diamond tips joining the Gloss Black DS WINGS, while the bonnet is adorned with a signature “1” badge, specific to LA PREMIÈRE models.
The distinctive black signature also features between the rear lights as well as at the lower areas of the bodywork and the side window surrounds. With SEVILLA 19-inch gloss black and diamond cut alloy wheels, the DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE provides a commanding presence on the road. Drivers can also personalise their car with the option of a sunroof or 20-inch SYDNEY alloy wheels on E-TENSE 225 and PureTech 225 variants.
Inside, the OPÉRA interior trim continues the luxurious design of the DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE. The seats are finished with watchstrap Nappa leather upholstery and feature a cooling, heating and massage function for the driver, while the Criollo Brown Nappa leather design continues across the detail of the centre console, doors and hidden seams, all delicately crafted by hand. This level of craftsmanship continues right up to the leather clad steering wheel and brown ash wood trim around the dashboard, while a FOCAL Electra sound system with 14 speakers is optional for drivers who might want to personalise their cabin even further.
DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE highlights the technological advances brought to the C-segment by the DS 4. Drivers can access a suite of technology, such as DS EXTENDED HEAD-UP DISPLAY and DS IRIS SYSTEM, and a latest generation interface that allows drivers to access the infotainment system via gesture control through DS SMART TOUCH and voice recognition.
The LA PREMIÈRE model also provides the driver with DS MATRIX LED VISION and directional projector headlamps, DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION controlled damping, DS DRIVE ASSIST level two autonomous driving with rear traffic alert and long-distance Blind Spot Monitoring, and optional DS NIGHT VISION technology.
Based on the EMP2 platform, DS 4 LA PREMIERE is available as a plug-in hybrid model offering 225 horsepower and more than 30 miles of range in zero-emissions mode on the combined WLTP cycle, built with technology that has inspired the success of the DS TECHEETAH FORMULA E champions. Alternatively, drivers can also purchase a PureTech 225 petrol variant of the DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE.
DS 4 LA PREMIÈRE is available for UK customers to reserve between now and the end of July with deliveries arriving later this year. Prices start from £39,950. To find out more, visit https://www.dsautomobiles.co.uk/
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- 2007 Ferrari 575 Superamerica F1 – Classiche
- Very rare, low mileage and impeccable service history
- Immaculately presented in Grigio Silverstone (740) over Pelle Nera (A8500)
- Accompanied by the Red Book, complete owners’ manuals, and the tool kit
Silverstone Auctions are now inviting entries for The Classic Sale at Silverstone on Saturday 31st July – Sunday 1st August.
The line-up is already looking spectacular which includes this 2007 Ferrari 575 Superamerica F1 – Classiche.
This exceptional example is very rare with such low mileage, an impeccable service history, immaculately presented and with Classiche Certification.
Following the success of the Ferrari 550, the spiritual successor to the 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’, Ferrari soon realised that there would be a market for a convertible version of the car which then resulted in the limited-edition 550 Barchetta Pininfarina. Undoubtedly the most interesting part of the 575 Superamerica was its Revochromico rotating hardtop. This was the first roof of its kind ever to be fitted into a production car and was built using carbon-fibre frame. With just the press of a button, the Superamerica can be transformed into a convertible, with the roof rotating back to rest with the boot lid in just a total of 10 seconds.
This, UK-supplied Superamerica has formed part of a number of significant UK collection over the years with the V5c showing just five owners and lightly used. Strikingly finished in Grigio Silverstone (740) over Pelle Nera (A8500), this impeccable Ferrari has a dealer service history. With less than 6,500 miles showing, this beautiful example will have a service at Ferrari Birmingham and a fresh MOT prior to the auction. Importantly, the car is Classiche Certified and comes with the Red Book, complete owners’ manuals, and the tool kit. The cherished registration, GT07 FER, will also remain with the car!
With gleaming paintwork and a flawless panel fit, the interior almost looks new, and the engine bay presents beautifully. The condition of this Ferrari has been very well cared for and is a treasured example.
Gary Dunne Sales Controller for Silverstone Auctions added “What a truly delightful and special example to be offered in The Classic Sale at Silverstone. We now encouraging early entries, don’t miss your chance to submit your car next to this rare Ferrari’.
Silverstone Auctions sale is taking place on Saturday 31st July to Sunday 1st August with their dedicated motorcycle sale on Friday 30th July at The Classic.
If you are interested in submitting your classic or competition car/motorcycle, the auction house are inviting you to join their growing lot list for the sale. To talk to a member of the team about your car, you can email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com or contact them on 01926 691141.
IMAGES
2007 Ferrari 575 Superamerica F1 – Classiche
For high resolution copies of the images please get in touch with the PR contact below
2021 AUCTIONS
The Classic Sale at Silverstone: 30th July – 1st August
The NEC Classic Motor Show Sale: 12th – 14th November
ABOUT SILVERSTONE AUCTIONS
Formed in 2011, Silverstone Auctions is a world-class, specialist auction house for the sale of classic cars, modern supercars, all types of competition cars, modern and historic motorcycles as well as automotive memorabilia.
We hold the exclusive automotive auction rights for Silverstone circuit and host sales as stand-alone events as well as an integrated element of some of Europe’s biggest motorsport events such as the Silverstone Classic Festival.
In addition to our sales at the circuit, we also host a number of auctions each year at other major classic car events including the NEC Classic Motor Show and Race Retro.
At Silverstone Auctions we take pride in selecting the very best of breed vehicles for our sales which not only attracts buyers from around the world, but has already helped us achieve a number of record-breaking auction prices on behalf of our vendors.
We are committed to providing the best possible service for both buyers and vendors alike, so if you’d like to know more about buying or selling a classic vehicle with Silverstone Auctions, call us today on +44(0)1926 691141.
