by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
PEUGEOT is supporting a new world record attempt to circumnavigate mainland Britain by a stand up paddleboard (SUP).
Attempted by Brendon Prince, adventurer and former Head of Outdoor Education at a South Devon grammar school for 25 years, the new record attempt will look to raise awareness for water safety, men’s health and the need to protect Britain’s coast lines.
Travelling by SUP around mainland Britain has been attempted many times before but never completed. Brendon is hoping to be the first to complete this world record as well as set two other world firsts; to be the first person, and fastest, to paddle from Land’s End to John O’ Groats via the coast and the longest ever journey on a stand up paddleboard. He is aiming to cover the approximate 2360miles in under 90 days.
Brendon will have to manage everything from tides and weather, to port authorities and MOD firing ranges, as well as the general fatigue that comes with paddleboarding for many consecutive days.
Joining Brendon will be a support team travelling in two PEUGEOT vans; a Boxer van which will act as a support vehicle, travelling to each stop to help with logistics and the PEUGEOT Expert van which will provide safety provisions. Brendon is attempting the record without a support boat, but his attempt will be tracked from the coastline to ensure his safety with the help of the PEUGEOT Expert.
The record attempt will start and end at Torre Abbey Sands at Torbay, with Brendon departing on Saturday 24th April. He’s looking to cross John O’Groats, the top of Scotland, within 40 days. The PEUGEOT vans will be delivered by Vospers PEUGEOT in Torquay and will be on loan for the duration of the record attempt.
The award-winning PEUGEOT Expert is one of PEUGEOT’s most successful LCV models. With a load volume of up to 6.6m3 and payload of up to 1,458kg, the PEUGEOT Expert is available as a panel van in Compact, Standard or Long lengths, with four different trim levels. The PEUGEOT Expert is also available as a crew van (accommodating up to six people), allowing drivers to meet a variety of business needs. Unveiled last year, an electrified PEUGEOT e-Expert is also available now, with either 50kWh or 75kWh batteries providing a range of up to 205 miles under WLTP tests.
The range’s largest LCV model, the PEUGEOT Boxer van, offers multiple body sizes allowing for an internal loadspace capacity between 8.0 to 17m3, with a payload of up to 1,870kg on panel vans. Also arriving later this year is the PEUGEOT e-Boxer, available with either a 37 kWh or 70 kWh battery.
Brendon Prince, said: “This attempt would not be possible without the support of many people and organisations. I’m very thankful to PEUGEOT and for the loan of its two vans. They will ensure the attempt has the best chance of success and will help keep me and my team safe throughout.”
Julie David, Managing Director, PEUGEOT UK, said: “Brendon’s record attempt is an ambitious one, and we are fully behind him and look forward to starting the journey around Britain. He’s working to promote some fantastic initiatives, and we wish him the very best on his journey and with the attempt.”
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- The first official photographs of the special version of the 812 Superfast were made available today
- The model’s name and further technical information will be revealed on May 5 during a live-streamed event on Ferrari’s social media channels
- The ultimate expression of Ferrari DNA: exclusivity, a racing soul and the pinnacle of automotive innovation
- Naturally-aspirated V12 unleashes 830 cv at 9,500 rpm for a sensation of endless power and performance
The first official images of Ferrari’s latest limited-edition special series have been published in the build-up to its world première, which will be broadcast live on the Maranello marque’s social media channels on May 5 at 14:30 CEST.
The new model is the ultimate expression of Ferrari’s concept of an extreme front-engined berlinetta, honing the characteristics of the critically-acclaimed 812 Superfast to a level never seen before. The result is a car that encapsulates and epitomises the company’s 70-plus years of experience on the world’s circuits, drawing on its thoroughbred sports car DNA to deliver a perfect marriage of performance, form, and function. Aimed at Ferrari’s most passionate collectors and connoisseurs, it features numerous uncompromising engineering solutions to guarantee peerless driving pleasure.
As is the case with all Ferrari’s cars, the most striking feature lies at its very heart: in this instance the latest evolution of Maranello’s legendary 65° V12 engine, which reaches the highest output of any Ferrari road-car engine – 830 cv – and revs to 9,500 rpm, again the highest of any Ferrari ICE. The use of state-of-the-art materials, the redesign of many of the engine’s key components, a new valve timing mechanism and a new exhaust system are just some of the technical solutions that allow the most noble of Ferrari engines to deliver performance levels that are unprecedented in the V12 segment.
The pure yet brutal power unleashed by the powertrain is paired with class-leading vehicle dynamics controls to ensure that the performance can be fully exploited and to guarantee maximum fun behind the wheel. Most distinctive of these solutions is the adoption of independent steering on all four wheels. This extends the feeling of agility and precision when cornering as well as providing unparalleled responsiveness to steering inputs. Another noteworthy engineering achievement is the development work undertaken to reduce the car’s overall weight compared to the 812 Superfast. This was achieved in particular by extensive use of carbon fibre, both on the exterior and in the cockpit. Lastly, the new model premieres version 7.0 of the renowned Side Slip Control vehicle dynamics system.
One of the most striking aspects of this new model is how in-depth aerodynamic research has altered the car’s lines. Working in close synergy with the Ferrari Styling Centre, the aerodynamicists have adopted solutions that are extreme in form featuring profiles that are unprecedented for a road-legal car. The aerodynamic redesign of the whole car was aimed at maximising downforce levels: from the new front air intakes, rear diffuser and exhaust configuration to the patented design of the rear screen – which now hosts vortex generators – every modification is a faithful expression of Ferrari’s core belief that form must always follow function.
From a design point of view, this new special series has a strong personality all of its own that differentiates it significantly from the 812 Superfast on which it is based: this was achieved by choosing styling themes that further enhance the architectural design and dynamism of the 812 Superfast, pushing its sporty vocation to new extremes.
One example of this is the decision to replace the glass rear screen with a single-piece aluminium structure. The vortex generators it sports improve the car’s aerodynamic efficiency, but the design solution chosen, which is fully integrated with the roof, simultaneously creates a backbone effect that underscores the car’s sculptural forms.
Together with the carbon-fibre blade that traverses the bonnet, this motif changes the overall perception of the car’s volumes: the bonnet seems shorter, emphasising the width of the car, and the tail now has a more powerful, fastback look, thus making it appear more compact and competition-like despite it sharing the 812 Superfast’s silhouette, proportions and formal balance. Even the rear spoiler now looks more imposing: it is higher but the specific design treatment used also makes the tail look very wide, almost horizontal.
The interior architecture very much reflects that of the 812 Superfast, retaining the main dash and door panel interfaces and volumes, including the signature diapason motif. Along with other elements of the interior, the door panel has been redesigned to reduce weight and, combined with the introduction of the H-gate theme on the tunnel, this lends the cockpit a sportier, more modern edge that reflects the car’s racing spirit.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- Enquiries and bookings for stag and hen experiences double compared to emergence from the first lockdown in 2020
- Ring it on… recent roadmap announcement sparked big interest from future brides and grooms, with bookings up nearly a quarter since end of February
- Trackdays.co.uk believes surge in bookings shows real confidence that there is light at the end of the tunnel
Enquiries and bookings for Stag and Hen driving experiences are double that compared to emergence from the first lockdown last year, new data by TrackDays.co.uk reveals.
Indeed, the analysis by one of the UK’s leading driving experience providers highlights that since the roadmap announcement at the end of February, bookings have increased by nearly a quarter compared to just a 10% increase out of the first lockdown last year.
And it’s the most extreme driving packages that are receiving the greatest interest, with exotic supercar experiences, such as getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari, Lamborghini or McLaren, accounting for almost half of all Stag and Hen bookings.
Specifically, the Double Supercar Blast for Two is one of the most popular experiences for stags and hens, as lovers, perhaps surprisingly, look to spend some last moments of single life freedom not apart but together.
Supercar experiences are followed by two group centric experiences, the Extreme Dodgems package and the Group Kart Grand Prix, both of which have seen a 50% increase in sales since February’s roadmap announcement.
Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk, said: “It is very encouraging to see a big increase in bookings compared to when we came out of the first lockdown last year.
“We can only hope that there is now real confidence that everyday life is returning to normal, including the resumption of weddings, and that Stags and Hens can once again choose how they wish to party before the big day.”
For more information about TrackDays.co.uk, visit www.trackdays.co.uk, to book a stag or hen experience visit https://www.trackdays.co.uk/gift-ideas/stag-and-hen-days/, while for a romantic aerial adventure head over to www.flydays.co.uk.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- UK’s leading provider of premium e-Bikes experiences steep growth in customisation
- More than a third of Cruzer models sold in the UK ordered with personalisation
- Everything from custom paint to bespoke engineering available
- Concierge service to personalise your Rayvolt UK e-Bike for the summer
- Visit the Rayvolt UK website – www.rayvoltbike.co.uk
From your choice of the perfect colour to a crocodile skin seat*, Rayvolt UK is now catering for discerning owners looking to customise their electric rides with its exclusive e-Bike bespoking service.
Highly stylised and instantly recognisable, the Rayvolt range is already an infinitely more sophisticated way of enjoying an e-Bike, but the growing trend for personalisation is allowing buyers’ imaginations to run wild and commission truly memorable machines.
Available across the entire range of Rayvolt UK bikes, from the laid-back Cruzer to the more aggressive Torino, no detail is too small or option too mundane when it comes to ensuring your electric ride really stands out.
“More than a third of our Cruzer models are delivered with some form of personalisation, but increasingly customers want a functional form of art,” explains Rayvolt UK’s Managing Director, Graham Kresfelder. “We make e-Bikes that are usable every day, but also reflect an owner’s personality. We regularly match frame colour to a favourite car and incorporate customer-specific options.”
Looking good in the urbane jungle and on country lanes
With up to 50 miles of range and a top speed of 30mph**, Rayvolt’s models are already a beautiful alternative to the raft of staid and drab e-Bikes available, but you can attain a new level of style with the option Rayvolt UK’s bespoke services.
Frame options include an unlimited pallet of colours, as well as metallic and pearlescent, along with contrasting wheel guards. These can be augmented with a broad range of accessories incorporated into the bespoke service. This includes leather tool rolls, saddle and frame bags and battery bags, in a range of natural, man-made and weather-proof materials, which can be ordered with contrast stitching. All Rayvolt UK bikes come with retro-style powerful front and rear LED lights fitted.
More than skin deep, the customisation even extends to the bike’s electronics, with a choice of powerful hub motors and battery packs for enhanced performance and range. All bikes feature fast charging with a full charge achievable at home in just 4-6 hours.
The personalised approach extends to the advanced technology that underpins Rayvolt UK’s e-Bikes. Each bike’s performance characteristics can be configured via the free smartphone app and saved (not available on the Clubman or Beachin models). Controlling acceleration, regenerative braking and top speed, the app is easy to use, compatible with both Apple and Android smartphones and part of the advanced technology that’s built into Rayvolt UK’s bikes.
The lightweight, high-quality batteries provide up to 50 miles using electric power alone, more with pedal input from the rider, and up to 1000** watts of power is available from a compact brushless 48V DC motor. The advanced intelligent regenerative braking optimises the battery’s range, and the intuitive thumb-controlled throttle** includes a motor cut-out when the brakes are activated, to ensure the bike remains easy to ride at all times.
The customisation and bespoke service from Rayvolt UK is just part of its ‘white-glove’ service, which ensures that customers get the most from their e-Bikes. With all the work carried out in the UK, including technical support, servicing and a range of lifestyle accessories, Rayvolt UK provides peace of mind for customer who want the certainty that they won’t be stranded with a bike that can’t be fixed.
The Rayvolt UK range of premium e-Bikes starts at £2500.
*Not real crocodile skin, but an all-weather synthetic alternative
** It is the owner’s responsibility to operate an e-bike within the limits of the law. Rayvolt UK encourages all its customers to recognise the relevant restrictions when using its products. The speed limit of 15.5mph should be observed when on UK roads, and the use of off-highway mode (allowing a top speed of 30mph and activating of the thumb throttle) should be restricted to use on private property and then only with the owner’s permission. The performance parameters of Rayvolt UK’s e-Bikes can only be altered via the free smartphone app, which offers the rider the peace of mind that they are operating the bike in a safe and responsible fashion.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
Advanced data analytics accelerates development and engineering of new Hennessey hypercar
- John Heinricy, Chief Engineer: “Harvesting real world vehicle performance data is accelerating the pace of F5 development”
- Hennessey’s new hypercar tops 200 mph during early aerodynamics testing
- Venom F5 global public debut set for Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in May
The Hennessey Venom F5 hypercar has successfully completed the first of three phases of intense development, with Chief Engineer John ‘Heinrocket’ Heinricy signing the car off for dynamic development.
The first phase of Venom F5 development began in February, concentrating on mechanical refinement, engine fine-tuning, steering and real-world aerodynamic validation. Initially taking place at Hennessey’s own test track in Sealy, Texas, the development then moved to the 2.2-mile (3.5 km) runway of a former U.S. Air Force base in Arkansas. Despite the engine’s power being restricted to just 900 hp – a mere 50 percent of the final 1,817 hp output – the aerodynamic testing saw the F5 top 200 mph as part of its mid-speed refinement and coast-down program.
John Heinricy, Chief Engineer at Hennessey Performance, said: “For more than 40 years I’ve been developing high-performance vehicles, yet nothing compares to the Venom F5. We’re making excellent headway in our mission to deliver a world-class hypercar to our customers that handles superbly, while managing its phenomenal power and speed with finesse.
“Every part of our development program is focused on making the Venom F5 the best it can be before customer deliveries start towards the end of this year. Our next phase is the most intense, concentrating on the car’s driving characteristics. We’ll split our testing between racetracks and Texas roads as we harvest data, refine every element and perfect this monster of hypercars.”
The second phase of development will determine the Venom F5’s agility, poise and driver feedback through an intense program of dynamic track and road driving. The team’s aim is to harness the car’s power to enable it to perform as a ‘decathlete of the road’ with hundreds of miles of driving set to take place throughout the summer.
The team will test on every type of road with the car’s high-performance dynamics fine-tuned at several racetracks including Laguna Seca, California and Circuit of The Americas (COTA), situated less than 100 miles from the Hennessey Performance base. Here, the team will unleash the 6.6-litre Hennessey twin turbo V8 engine, named ‘Fury’, while monitoring every facet of the cars’ handling via state-of-the-art telemetry and data logging equipment.
John Hennessey, company founder and CEO, said: “With almost all Venom F5 models in the 24-car production run already sold, we’re focused on delivering an all-round hypercar to our customers that rivals the best in the world. I’m proud of our team of engineers who will achieve this mission guided by the infinite experience of John Heinricy. His engineering, racing and high-performance vehicle development skills will shape the Venom F5’s dynamic capabilities to match its immense power.”
The Hennessey Venom F5 is set to make its global public debut at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on May 22-23, mid-way through its development program. Following its road and track testing this summer, the final phase will take place in the fall to refine the car’s full-power acceleration, high-speed stability and braking. Once the engineering team signs-off this final development phase, Hennessey has its sights set on a top speed surpassing 311 mph (500 kph).
by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog
- Volvo Car UK resumes its premium Test Drive+ service after an enforced break in line with national Covid-19 health restrictions
- Full range of Volvo SUV models available to test now, led by new pure electric XC40 Recharge compact SUV
- Customers can use fast and efficient digital platform to book a test drive in the car they are interested in
- Focus on customer requirements, ease of use and premium service
- Digital service is in line with Volvo’s move to online sales and making it ultra-convenient for customers to experience the brand
- Initial relaunch provides test drives via local Volvo retailers; as restrictions ease, customers will be able to organise car delivery and collection at their home or place of work
- Each test drive is hosted by a Volvo specialist, equipped to respond to all questions on the car and purchase options
Volvo Car UK is pleased to announce the resumption of its premium Test Drive+ programme, giving customers a safe and convenient way of experiencing its cars.
In particular, the service offers a great opportunity to test the newly arrived pure electric XC40 Recharge, the newest version of Volvo’s multi-award-winning compact SUV.
Originally launched in 2019, Test Drive+ was suspended in accordance with lockdown restrictions. Its reintroduction is fully in line with current Government guidelines, so customers can take a test drive in their car of choice, confident in the knowledge all necessary health and safety measures have been implemented.
The full line-up of Volvo SUVs is now available through Test Drive+, including those with petrol-electric plug-in hybrid and pure electric powertrains.
Initially, the service will be provided at the customer’s preferred Volvo retailer. When Covid-19 restrictions are eased and it is safe to do so, arrangements can be made for cars to be delivered to and collected from customers’ homes or places of work. At a future date, extended test drives of up to 24 hours will also be available.
Test Drive+ has been developed as a fully customer-focused programme, giving people easy access to Volvo cars at the times and locations that suit them best. Each test drive is hosted by a Volvo specialist, who can respond to any questions about the car and purchase options.
Echoing Volvo’s move to online sales, Test Drive+ uses a digital platform to host a live diary and booking system, which customers can access at any time using their smartphone, tablet or computer. Choosing a car, preferred retailer and a convenient date and time can all be accomplished quickly and securely.
Test Drive+ is available now, accessible at www.volvocars.com/uk/test-drive-booking
Test Drive+ was developed and launched by Volvo Car UK, and its early success has prompted the concept to be adopted by Volvo Cars for use in its global markets.
