Desert Sled Fasthouse: a limited and numbered edition of Ducati Scrambler to celebrate victory in the Mint 400

Desert Sled Fasthouse: a limited and numbered edition of Ducati Scrambler to celebrate victory in the Mint 400

  • A limited edition of 800 units created to celebrate the success achieved in the 2020 edition of the prestigious American off-road race
  • Built on a Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled base, the model features a special livery that replicates that of the bikes used in the race
  • A capsule collection of Ducati Scrambler Fasthouse apparel created in collaboration by the two brands will also be available in Ducati dealerships

Scrambler Ducati presents the limited and numbered edition Desert Sled Fasthouse model:

a motorcycle created to celebrate the collaboration between Ducati Scrambler and the American clothing brand Fasthouse, which in 2020 took the rider Jordan Graham to victory in the Hooligan class of the Mint 400, the oldest and most prestigious off-road race in America.

The new Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse was presented by Jason Chinnock (CEO Ducati North America) and Kenny Alexander (founder and president of Fasthouse) in a video shot inside the Fasthouse headquarters in California (link to the video here). The model will be available in dealerships from the end of March in a limited and numbered series of 800 units.

Made starting from the base of the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled, the Fasthouse model is distinguished by its special livery, which replicates the graphics used by the bikes that took part in the Mint 400. The main colours are black and grey, which combine in a geometric design on the tank, on which the Fasthouse logo is inserted alongside the Ducati Scrambler one. The frame is in Ducati Red and is embellished with an aluminium plate bearing the number of the bike within the limited series, making each one of the 800 units to be produced unique, while the front and rear mudguards are black.

The Ducati Scrambler Fasthouse is powered by the 803 cc engine and is equipped with all the characteristic elements of the Ducati “Land of Joy” Desert Sled models . The swingarm, the triple clamps and the bespoke suspension make this model perfect for those who want to experience great adventures on off-road trails, just like those of the Nevada desert that each year are the scene for the Mint 400. The inclination to the off-road universe is underlined by the chassis, specifically designed to cope with the stresses of off-road use, as well as by the presence of a homologated grille for the front headlight, high mudguards and the skid plate.

The riding position is customized, thanks to the saddle with non-slip coating that keeps the seat height at 860 mm, the adjustable Kayaba suspension with 200 mm of travel and the off-road inspired foot pegs with removable rubber pads. The black spoked wheels measure 19” at the front and 17” at the rear and are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion™ Rally STR tyres in sizes 120/70 R 19 M/C 60V M+S TL front and 170/60 R 17 M/C 72V M+S TL rear. The Scorpion™ Rally STR combine the best performance of an off-road tyre with that of an enduro street tyre.

The collaboration between the “Land of Joy” and Fasthouse in this special project also includes the launch of a capsule collection of apparel , created specifically for the Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse. The collection consists of 4 elements: short-sleeved t-shirt, long-sleeved t-shirt, jacket and cap, all made with high-quality fabrics, which will be available for purchase from the end of April on Fasthouse’s sales channels, in Ducati network dealers and on the Ducati Online Shop.

Further information and details on Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse and the capsule collection are available on the scramblerducati.com website.

Nissan unveils the colours designed for the new electric age with Ariya’s paint palette

Nissan unveils the colours designed for the new electric age with Ariya’s paint palette

  • Nissan’s colour experts gathered inspiration from Ariya’s advanced technology to curate a bespoke palette of premium and futuristic paint options
  • Two brand-new colours, Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green, developed especially for Ariya
  • Technological innovations in the paint production line reduces carbon dioxide output by 25%

Marking the rise of a new dawn in Nissan electric vehicle design, Nissan unveils a rich palette of ten exterior colours for Ariya, inspired by its powerful spirit of innovation and the thrill of the future.

Driven by the desire to bring the worlds of electric mobility and design together with a spark, the diverse hues reflect the technological feel of Ariya’s futuristic, electrified design.

The vivid paint palette defines the visual identity for Ariya, inspired by the next-level electric powertrain, state-of-the-art connectivity and advanced driving assistance features.

With four monotone and six two-tone options, the paint portfolio was crafted to elevate Ariya’s premium look and feel. Best of all, these stunning hues are applied by a highly advanced, environmentally sustainable paint production technology that reduces carbon dioxide output by 25% – substantially reducing the environmental impact of this zero-emissions vehicle.

New colours for a new era of electrification
The new Ariya gave the expert colour design teams an opportunity to craft an all-new identity for Nissan electric mobility.

The design team has sought to represent the essence of Ariya’s power, technology and sense of serenity with two unprecedented colours. Named Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green, these captivating paints were developed especially for the all-electric coupé crossover.

“The ingenuity the Nissan Ariya represents inspired us to adopt an entirely new mindset for colour design,” said Lesley Busby, Colour Manager at Nissan Design Europe.

“Ariya is the culmination of Nissan’s electric mobility expertise and a strong statement of intent for the future of EV design. We therefore worked hard to introduce a truly futuristic and technology-driven design language for the colours, analysing them in detail to create the perfect match for Ariya’s innovative personality,” Lesley Busby continued.

Inspired by the Japanese phrase for ‘dawn’, Akatsuki Copper’s striking appearance mimics the brilliance of a sunrise, reflecting the beginning of Nissan’s new brand identity. Its metallic sparkle is enhanced to evoke the conductivity of copper wires, honouring the model’s advanced EV technology.

Aurora Green takes its name from the beautiful ‘Northern Lights’ phenomenon, aurora borealis, commonly seen in the arctic. A sophisticated blend of different tones means the colour may appear green or purple depending on the angle that it is viewed, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue.

Technology innovation in colour
Continuing in this spirit of innovation, Ariya introduces an all-new level of detail and depth to customer-favourite colours, created with state-of-the-art paint production techniques.

At the heart of Pearl Black is an all-new pigment, developed to elevate the depth of the paint and to create a rich, captivating appearance.

Highly advanced production techniques were employed to achieve a complex, clean and crisp composition with Pearl White, which offers more brilliance and clarity than ever before on a Nissan vehicle. The two-tone appearance is complete with a contrasting rich black roof, using the all-new pigment to achieve an unprecedented level of depth.

Lesley Busby commented: “We know that black and white colours are some of the most popular options with vehicle owners in Europe and around the world. With Ariya, we have introduced a new level of richness and a premium veneer for these customer favourites. Combined with the quality and attention to detail seen throughout the colour palette, we’re excited for customers to experience Nissan’s new era of colour design for themselves.”

Sustainable production techniques
Technological innovation has also been employed to enhance the sustainability of the paint production line. Nissan has introduced a water-based paint which allows colours to be applied at a lower temperature, ensuring that each part of the vehicle can be painted together. This streamlines the entire application process, reducing carbon dioxide output by 25%.

Behind-the-scenes video content investigating the story of the model’s colour design can be viewed on YouTube here, and further insight on the intricate process can be found on Nissan Stories here.

Consumers can register here and join the 29,000 people who have already registered their interest in Ariya.

About Nissan in Europe
Nissan has one of the most comprehensive European presences of any overseas manufacturer, employing more than 16,000 staff across locally based design, research & development, manufacturing, logistics and sales & marketing operations. In 2019, Nissan plants in the UK, Spain and Russia produced about 465,000 vehicles including award-winning crossovers, commercial vehicles, and the Nissan LEAF. Pursuing a goal of zero emissions and zero fatalities on the road, Nissan is leading the field with its vision of Intelligent Mobility. Designed to guide Nissan’s product and technology pipeline, this 360 degree approach to the future of mobility will anchor critical company decisions around how cars are powered, how cars are driven, and how cars integrate into society.

Hyundai announces New KONA Electric prices and specifications

Hyundai announces New KONA Electric prices and specifications

  • Exterior design upgrades for a pure new look
  • SE Connect and Ultimate trims introduced alongside revised Premium specification
  • 3001 mile range from 64kWh battery, 1891 mile range from 39.2kWh battery
  • Prices from £30,1254 or £297 p/m for SE Connect 39kWh, £359 p/m3 for Premium 64kWh

Hyundai Motor UK has announced the pricing and specification of the New KONA Electric, the Company’s game changing zero emission electric vehicle.

First released in 2018, KONA Electric quickly garnered a reputation for delivering high levels of efficiency and genuine long distance capability thanks to its powerful electric drivetrain. Since launch, KONA Electric has continued to receive industry recognition for both its technical strengths and for its democratization of electric vehicles to the wider consumer market.

The New KONA Electric has undergone a series of exterior design updates; at the front with a new-look closed grille and new LED Daytime Running Lights and new, sharper headlamps that incorporate multifaceted reflector (MFR) technology. Air inlets in front of the wheel arch claddings enhance its aerodynamics and reduce turbulence in the front wheelhouse area and the functional air intake in the lower bumper is visually enhanced by horizontal satin accent bars. To the side, new painted wheel arch claddings give the New KONA Electric a fresh new look, with a new 17” alloy wheel design, new rear bumper and revised rear lamps completing the design changes.

Amongst the specification enhancements for New KONA Electric, interior additions include a standard 10.25” driver’s digital supervision instrument cluster with a choice of display options and information displays, whilst the 10.25” AVN system is now standard across the range, with its combination of Bluelink® app control, KRELL premium multi speaker sound and navigation with voice control.

New KONA Electric continues with a choice of two powertrain offerings, a 39.2kWh with 136PS and a range of 189 miles1, or the 64kWh with 204PS and a range of 300 miles1. Both models offer charging flexibility with standard 7 pin Type 2 CCS and 3 pin ICCB charging cables. New KONA Electric can be charged from as little as 47 minutes on a 100kW charger2, with a full recharge from a 7.2kW charger obtained in just 6 hours2

Three trim levels are available to customers with the new SE Connect and Ultimate trims joining a revised Premium specification. From £33,125 on the road, the KONA Electric SE Connect 39.2kWh is offered with the usual Hyundai high level of standard specification including a standard 10.25” digital supervision instrument cluster, 10.25” AVN system with subscription free Apple Car Play® and Android Auto®, 5 year Bluelink® subscription and 10 years of map updates via the MapCare scheme. Standard rear parking sensors with a rear view camera, keyless entry with stop/start button and smart adaptive cruise control with stop/go function all provide customers with convenience when driving.

The Premium trim has been revised from the previous model, with standard equipment additions including full LED headlamps, heated front seats heated steering wheel and cabin ambient lighting. Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) and Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCA) are also added to the already comprehensive safety equipment list. Other key features for the Premium include front parking sensors, LED rear lights, power folding mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers and wireless device charging point. The Premium is available with a choice of two powertrains, the 39.2kWh battery, 100kW motor with 136PS and 189 mile1 range or the 64kWh battery, 150kW motor with 204PS and 3001 mile range.

New to the KONA Electric range is the Ultimate 64 kWh, which now adds an electric tilt and slide sunroof and the Highway Drive Assist function to an already comprehensive specification, including head up display, leather upholstery with full electric adjustments to the front, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

New KONA Electric is available with a choice of 10 exterior finishes, including 6 new colours:

ColourFinishColourFinish
Misty Jungle (new)PearlDive in Jeju (new)Solid
Surfy Blue (new)MetallicGalactic GreyMetallic
Ingnite Flame (new)Special SolidDark KnightPearl
Cyber Grey (new)MetallicPulse RedPearl
Atlas White (new)Special SolidPhantom BlackPearl

Ashley Andrew, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor UK said “KONA Electric has been a fundamental player in the UK’s fast growing electric vehicle market and the latest updates will see us continue to offer customers a truly viable fully electric model that meets their expectations in terms of cost, range and equipment levels.”

All New KONA Electric models come with Hyundai’s industry leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, 8 year 100,000 mile High Voltage Battery Warranty, Roadside Assistance package, 5 Year Annual Health Check, and 12 Year Anti Corrosion Warranty.

Pricing – for the very latest pricing information, please check https://www.hyundai.co.uk/new-cars/kona-electric

ModelRecommended OTRRecommended OTR inc PICGP11D valueBIK Tax %
SE Connect 39kWh£33,125.00£30,125.00£33,070.000%
Premium 39kWh£34,475.00£31,475.00£34,420.000%
Premium 64kWh£38,225.00£35,225.00£38,170.000%
Ultimate 64kWh£40,375.00£37,375.00£40,320.000%
Options ModelsRetail Price
Special Solid paint: Ignite flame / Atlas WhiteAll£300.00
Metallic / Pearl PaintAll£565.00
Heat PumpAll£875.00
      


Finance examples based on a 4 year 4.6% APR Representative Hyundai Personal Contract Purchase available to 31/03/2021, £4,720 customer deposit, £1,750 Hyundai Deposit Contribution and 8,000 miles p.a. Full terms and conditions apply

Model   
SE Connect 39kWh£297
Premium 39kWh£315
Premium 64kWh£359
Ultimate 64kWh£397

 
Specifications – for the very latest specification information, please check https://www.hyundai.co.uk/new-cars/kona-electric

DescriptionSE ConnectPremiumUltimate
MOTOR & BATTERY CAPACITY   
100kW Electric Motor (136ps) & 39kWh Lithium-Ion Battery
150kW Electric Motor (204ps) & 64kWh Lithium-Ion Battery
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION   
Single Speed Transmission
EXTERIOR   
17″ Alloy Wheels
Door Mirrors – Body Coloured
Exterior Door Handles – Body Coloured
Roof Rails
INTERIOR STYLING   
Interior Door Handles – Chrome Effect
Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
SEATING   
Driver’s Seat Electric Adjustments
Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment (Electric)
Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment (Manual)
Driver’s Seat Lumbar Support (Electric)
Driver’s Seat Manual Adjustments
Front Passenger’s Seat Electric Adjustments
Front Passenger’s Seat Height Adjustment (Electric)
Front Passenger’s Seat Manual Adjustments
Front Seats – Heated
Front Seats – Ventilated
Rear Seats (Outer) – Heated
Seat Trim – Cloth
Seat Trim – Leather (Seat Facings Only)
VENTILATION & VISIBILITY   
Air Conditioning – Climate Control
Automatic Dimming Rear View Mirror
Automatic Headlights with Dusk Sensor
Automatic Windscreen Wipers with Rain Sensor
Climate Control with Automatic De-fog System for Front Windscreen
Cornering Lights – Static
Daytime Running Lights – LED
Headlights – Full LED (MFR)
Headlights – Halogen
High Beam Assist (HBA)
Indicator Lights – Door Mirror
Interior Light – Ambient Lighting
Interior Light – Centre
Interior Light – Front
Positioning Lights – LED
Privacy Glass – Rear Side and Tailgate
Rear Lights – LED
Solar Glass with Windscreen Shade Band
Sunroof – Electric tilt and slide
Windscreen Auto Defog Function
CONVENIENCE   
Battery Heater
Cruise Control – Smart Adaptive Speed Control with Stop and Go Function
Cup Holders – Front
Door Mirrors – Electric Adjustment and Heated
Door Mirrors – Electric Adjustment and Heated with Power Folding Function
Drive Mode Selector
Electric Windows – Front and Rear
Electric Windows – Front with Drivers Anti-trap Mechanism and One-touch Control
Front Seat Back Pockets – Driver and Passenger Seat
Heated Steering Wheel
Parking Brake – Electric
Parking Sensors – Front and Rear
Parking Sensors – Rear
Parking System – Rear Camera and Guidance System
Regenerative Brake Shift Paddles
Smart Key – Keyless Entry with Power On/Off Button
Steering Column – Height and Reach Adjustable
Sun Visors – with Driver and Passenger Vanity Mirrors Illuminated
Sunglasses Holder
Tyre Repair Kit
Windscreen Washer Fluid Sensor and Warning Indicator
TECHNOLOGY & ENTERTAINMENT   
10.25″ Widescreen Navigation with Bluelink & Mapcare
Bluetooth® Connectivity with Voice Recognition
Digital Clock
Driver’s Supervision Instrument Cluster with TFT Display (10.25″)
Head Up Display (HUD)
KRELL Premium Audio – 8 Speaker + Subwoofer
Phone Connection – Android Auto™
Phone Connection – Apple CarPlay™
Radio – RDS and Digital DAB
Speakers – 2 Tweeters, 2 Front, 2 Rear
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
USB and AUX Connections – Front
USB Charger – Centre Console
Wireless Phone Charging Pad
SAFETY & SECURITY   
Airbags – Front, Front Side & Curtain Airbags
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cycle Detection
Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA)
Central Locking – Remote Control
eCall
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Highway Drive Assist (HDA)
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
Immobiliser
ISLW (Intelligent Speed Limit Warning)
Lane Follow Assist (LFA)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCA)
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Individual Tyre Pressure Display
CUSTOMER OPTIONS   
Metallic / Pearl / Special Solid Paint
Heat Pump
WARRANTY   
100% MapCare Programme – 10 years of Map Updates
12 Years’ Anti-Perforation Warranty
Five Year Annual Vehicle Health Checks
Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty
Hyundai Roadside Assistance
KONA High Voltage Battery Warranty – 8 Years, 100,000 Miles
CHARGING   
CCS Combo Rapid Charge Port (50kW)
Charging Cable – 7 Pin Type 2
Charging Cable – Emergency 3 Pin Connector (ICCB)


Technical – for the very latest pricing information, please check https://www.hyundai.co.uk/new-cars/kona-electric

DescriptionElectric 64 kWh Battery 204PSElectric 39.2 kWh Battery 136PS
ELECTRIC MOTOR  
Electric Motor TypePermanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)
Electric Motor Max Power (PS/kW)204 / 150.0 (PS/kW)136 / 100.0 (PS/kW)
Electric Motor Torque (Nm/lbs ft)395 / 291.3 (Nm/lbs ft)395 / 291.3 (Nm/lbs ft)
0-62mph (seconds)7.99.9
Top Speed (mph)10496
HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY  
Battery TypeLithium-ion Polymer
Battery Power (kW)170113
Battery Capacity (kWh/Ah)6439.2
Voltage356327
CHARGING  
Charging PortCCS Combo / Type 2
Estimated Charging Emergency 3 Pin Connector (ICCB) (10-100%)28 Hours17 Hours
Estimated Charging Wallbox 7.2kW single phase (10-100%)9 Hours 15 Minutes6 Hours
Estimated Charging Wallbox 10.5kW 3 phase (10-100%)6 Hours 50 Minutes4 Hours 20 Minutes
Estimated Public 50kW CCS (10-80%)64 Minutes48 Minutes
Estimated Public 100kW CCS (10-80%)47 Minutes47 Minutes
On Board Charger (kW)10.5
SUSPENSION  
FrontMacPherson Strut Type
RearMulti-Link Type
STEERING  
SystemMotor Driven Power Steering (C-MDPS)
Steering Wheel Lock to Lock Turns2.5
Turning Circle (metres)10.4
BRAKE  
SystemPower Assisted Braking System with ABS and EBD
Front305mm Ventilated Disc
Rear300mm Solid Disc
DIMENSIONS  
Overall Length (mm)4205
Overall Width (mm)1800 (exc mirrors) / 2070 (inc mirrors)
Wheelbase (mm)2600
WEIGHT AND CAPACITYElectric 64 kWh Battery 204PSElectric 39.2 kWh Battery 136PS
Kerb Weight (kg)1685-17431535-1593
Payload (kg)427-485427-485
Gross Vehicle Weight (kg)21702020
Max Tow Weight (kg) – Braked100
Max Tow Weight (kg) – Unbraked100
Gross Train Weight (kg)22702020
Noseweight (kg)100
Max Roof Weight (kg)8080
SE ConnectElectric 64 kWh Battery 204PSElectric 39.2 kWh Battery 136PS
Front Tyre215/55 R17
Rear Tyre215/55 R17
Front Wheel7.0J x 17 Alloy
Real Wheel7.0J x 17 Alloy
Front Track1564
Rear Track1575
Overall Height (mm)1570
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres)332 (seats up) / 1114 (seats down)
CO2 Emissions (g/km)0
Max Potential EV Range (Miles/Km)189/305
Electric Driving Efficiency (kWh/ 100Km)14.3
PremiumElectric 64 kWh Battery 204PSElectric 39.2 kWh Battery 136PS
Front Tyre215/55 R17
Rear Tyre215/55 R17
Front Wheel7.0J x 17 Alloy
Real Wheel7.0J x 17 Alloy
Front Track1564
Rear Track1575
Overall Height (mm)1570
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres)332 (seats up) / 1114 (seats down)
CO2 Emissions (g/km)00
Max Potential EV Range (Miles/Km)300/484189/305
Electric Driving Efficiency (kWh/100Km)14.714.3
UltimateElectric 64 kWh Battery 204PSElectric 39.2 kWh Battery 136PS
Front Tyre215/55 R17
Rear Tyre215/55 R17
Front Wheel7.0J x 17 Alloy
Real Wheel7.0J x 17 Alloy
Front Track1564
Rear Track1575
Overall Height (mm)1570
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres)332 (seats up) / 1114 (seats down) 
CO2 Emissions (g/km)0
Max Potential EV Range (Miles/Km)300/484
Electric Driving Efficiency (kWh/100Km)14.7


*1 – Range and consumption figures obtained under the Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP)
*2 – Figures for 39.2kWh battery
*3 – Kona Electric Premium, £359pm on a 4 year 4.6% APR Representative Hyundai Personal Contract Purchase available to 31/03/2021, £4,720 customer deposit, £1,750 Hyundai Deposit Contribution and 8,000 miles p.a. Full terms and conditions apply, please see hyundai.co.uk/offers/model/Kona-electric.
*4 – Price includes £3,000 Government PICG

Maserati Bora turns 50

Maserati Bora turns 50

Maserati celebrates the Bora, the first mid-mounted rear engine road car in the Brand’s history, just as the MC20 is the first mid-mounted rear engine vehicle in the new Era.

The wind of the Maserati Bora spans through 50 years of history, and reaches the dawn of a new phase for the Brand: all new models share the exclusiveness, sportiness and uniqueness that have always characterised the Modenese constructor, and Bora has also handed down its engine position, first introduced on the Tipo 63 (1961), initially reprised on the MC12, and now a key feature of the new MC20.

Exactly 50 years have passed since 11 March 1971, when the Geneva International Motor Show provided the backdrop for the debut of the Maserati Bora, which was produced until 1978 with 564 cars built, not to mention the spectacular Boomerang, a coupé prototype created by Giugiaro with futuristic engineering and wedge-shaped bodywork.

Following the trend that had already revolutionised Formula 1 racing cars over previous years, Maserati asked Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign to come up with a mid-mounted rear engine sports car with enhanced performance, design, comfort and safety.

The engine was the tried and tested 4,700 cc V8 producing 310 horsepower at 6,000 rpm (to be joined by the 4,900 cc unit two years later), mounted lengthways on a subframe installed on the monocoque.

The car’s distinctive features included retractable headlights to prevent aerodynamic drag, projecting differential on the rear axle, independent suspensions on all wheels (for the first time in a Maserati), disc brakes, dry-mounted single disc clutch, 5-speed gearbox and telescopic suspension dampers.

The Bora combined comfort and performance and had a top speed of over 280 km/h, ensuring great driving pleasure thanks to the engine’s exceptionally agile response and the quiet interior.

While the car’s engineering design carried the name of Giulio Alfieri, the aerodynamics and styling were by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who created a two-seater coupé on simple, elegant lines which gave the Maserati Bora a balanced appearance.

The approach was futuristic, with a low, slender, almost tapered front styled to cut through the air, while the front grille included two rectangular air vents with a Trident in the centre. The perfectly sleek sides were centrally divided by a thin black rubber trim, while the rear ended in a Kamm or truncated tail.

The result was a trend-setting, streamlined car perfect for the rock-and-roll spirit of the ‘70s, which is still delighting fans today.

Electrification minus the complication – Audi e-tron becomes available via all-inclusive onto subscription service

Electrification minus the complication – Audi e-tron becomes available via all-inclusive onto subscription service

All-inclusive electric car subscription provider expands its fleet with 300 Audi e-tron Black Edition SUVs
which are now available to subscribers for as little as one month

  • e-tron 55 Black Edition now available via all-inclusive subscription service Onto
  • No deposit or long-term commitment required – minimum one-month usage period
  • Straightforward all-in monthly fee of £1,299 covers insurance, free charging, servicing, breakdown cover and up to 1,000 miles.
  • Option to continue, switch model or stop at the end of each month
  • Boosted by purchase of 300 e-trons, Onto is operator of UK’s largest EV fleet

By taking a selfie and completing a simple online registration process, drivers who may have been considering a trial separation from the internal combustion engine can now take delivery of a new Audi e-tron Black Edition for as little as one month usage period.

The attractive new incentive to make the switch to zero local emission driving is the result of a collaboration between Audi UK and all-inclusive electric car subscription provider Onto, which has just purchased 300 examples of the much sought-after electric SUV. The relative newcomer to the world of vehicle fleets is now making the e-tron available for periods starting at one month, with everything from insurance and maintenance to 1,000 miles-worth of electricity all taken care of by one simple subscription payment. 

“Although it’s an increasingly unfounded viewpoint, electrification and additional complication still go hand in hand in the eyes of many drivers, so our involvement with Onto will be valuable as a means of dismantling as many perceived obstacles to EV ownership and usage as possible,” says Director of Audi UK Andrew Doyle.

“Onto’s acquisition of 300 Audi e-trons is one of the largest corporate BEV purchase commitments we have seen so far, and supplements an EV fleet which is already the most extensive in the UK. This acutely convenience-focused service has real potential to be a key driver of attitudinal change and broader integration of more environmentally compatible mobility.” 

Unlike more familiar automotive leasing models, the Onto service doesn’t require subscribers to secure their chosen car with a deposit, or to commit to binding multi-year agreements. During the online subscription process, customers selecting the e-tron Black Edition will be asked to pay a fee of £49.50 to cover delivery to their preferred UK address. This can be carried out within as little as 72 hours. At that point either 50 per cent or 100 per cent of the advertised monthly fee of £1,299 is also debited, depending on the proximity of the booking and delivery dates. This payment can be a one-off, as subsequent charges only become applicable ahead of each new month when the customer confirms they want to extend usage of their car. If they don‘t, they can pay a £49.50 collection fee and walk away, or pay this fee and swap to another electric vehicle available as part of the Onto service (for which charges vary).

Whilst the monthly fee for usage may initially seem uncompetitive versus more traditional contract hire and PCP rates, the total cost of ownership for the customer is actually comparable when the absence of a lump-sum deposit and the inclusion of insurance, charging and servicing are taken into account.

All-inclusive package
That package includes fully comprehensive insurance with breakdown cover for drivers aged between 30 and 80, up to 1,000 miles-worth of electricity accessible monthly through membership of the BP Pulse and Shell Recharge networks with their thousands of UK charging stations, and servicing, including agreed wear and tear provision. It also includes specification enhancements, such as metallic paint, that are often categorised as extra cost options in conventional leasing agreements.

The key interface – quite literally – between Onto and its customers is the Onto app, which is downloadable from the App Store or on Google Play. It replaces physical keys for users of the service, who instead lock, unlock and start their cars using the app on their smartphone.

In the case of the e-tron, the app also supplements the car’s onboard e-tron route planner by showing public charging locations at which users can top up with the electricity included as part of their subscription using their BP Pulse or Shell Recharge charge cards. Charging is of course also possible at compatible public points that are not part of the BP Pulse or Shell Recharge network, and at home using the appropriate cable supplied with the e-tron, but any costs incurred in these instances are not covered by the subscription.

Based on the perennially popular S line trim with its more sporting slant, the Black Edition specification available for the e-tron as part of the Onto service enhances the SUV‘s profile further still with some premium touches. Privacy glass, matrix LED headlamps and 21-inch alloy wheels with a black finish that is carried through into the singleframe, the front and rear bumper inserts, the window trims, the roof rails and the door mirror surrounds are key external features. Lowered adaptive sport air suspension also contributes to the purposeful stance, and of course also to composure through corners. 

Inside, S line detailing, front sport seats finished in contrast-stitched Valcona leather and additional dashboard, door and centre console upholstery in Twin leather subtly signal intent while lending the appropriate air of luxury. Naturally this is also complemented by upscale technology in the form of features such as the Audi Virtual Cockpit, the Audi smartphone interface, Audi Phone box wireless smartphone connectivity and charging and the touch-screen MMI Touch system with its dual monitors. This serves as the gateway to MMI Navigation Plus and to the many online services available as part of the Audi Connect portfolio.

235-mile driving range
The e-tron Black Edition is currently available in 50 quattro form with a WLTP-certified range of up to 183 miles, or as a 55 quattro capable of travelling for up to 235 miles between charges, and it is this second, more powerful version which Onto has chosen to expand its service offer. Its two electric motors deliver a system output of 300 kW and can make up to 664 Nm (489.7 lb-ft) of torque available within a fraction of a second, enabling acceleration from a standing start to 62mph in 5.7 seconds and a top speed electronically-limited to 124mph. The 95 kWh battery that makes this possible can charge with direct current (DC) at up to 150 kW, meaning that approximately half an hour is all that is required to restore 80 per cent of its capacity at fast charging stations.

The e-tron SUV symbolises the beginning of a transformation for Audi, as the brand famous for Vorsprung durch Technik seeks to reorient itself as a pioneer of sustainable mobility. The company plans not only to roll out an electrified product range that will be 30-strong by 2025, including no less than 20 fully electric models, but also to maximise the environmental compatibility of its production facilities and processes. Its fundamental objective is to operate all its sites carbon neutrally and reduce its overall carbon footprint by 30 per cent by 2025, and ultimately to become a wholly net-zero carbon-emission company by 2050.

Further information about the e-tron 55 quattro can be found at www.audi.co.uk, and prospective Onto subscribers can explore the service in more detail at https://on.to/


Easy-going electrification –
Audi UK has teamed up with online electric car subscription provider Onto to make the e-tron 55 Black Edition available to its subscribers for one simple, all-inclusive monthly fee, and for periods of as little as one month.

Driving Down Memory Lane

Driving Down Memory Lane

NEW SURVEY FOR TOP GEAR HIGHLIGHTS THE FAMILY ‘MOTORING MEMORIES’ THAT COULD SOON BE LOST TO HISTORY

Classic in-car ‘I-Spy’ style games, parents bickering over directions and children’s cries of ‘are we there yet’ are now all part of a bygone age of motoring according to a new study

  • Survey into the history of family car travel identifies the motoring experiences that younger generations will never encounter   
  • Research reveals six in ten (63%) adults aged 40 and over cherish childhood memories of family outings by car  
  • 60% say the most honest and heartfelt chats with family take place in the car  
  • Study marks the launch of a new series of hit BBC One motoring show Top Gear on Sunday 14th March  
  • First episode sees presenters Paddy McGuinness, Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris drive their old family cars as they reminisce about their childhood motoring memories 

Mum and Dad bickering over maps and directions, playing ‘I Spy’ style car games with the kids and using wire coat hangers for replacement aerials are now all part of a bygone age of motoring according to a new survey released today.  

The research for Top Gear into family car travel over the last 40 years reveals a seismic change between generations and identifies the in-car travel experiences that could soon be consigned to the history books.  

Tuning in the car stereo, picking up hitchhikers and the plaintive cries of ‘are we there yet?’ from listless children are also listed among the motoring experiences that younger generations are unlikely to encounter.  

The survey of 2,000 UK adults aged 40 and over was commissioned by BBC Studios to mark the start of the 30th series of flagship BBC One motoring entertainment show Top Gear on Sunday 14th March. 

In the series opener, presenters Paddy McGuinness, Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris drive their old family cars and reminisce about their childhood motoring memories.  

The top ten family car travel experiences which have been lost to history:   

  1. Unfurling of maps and arguments between parents over directions (54%) 
  2. One CD or tape in the car that you had to listen to every single time you went on a drive (53%) 
  3. Pre-planning routes (39%) 
  4. Using a coat hanger as a radio aerial (39%) 
  5. Using the cigarette lighter for its original intended purpose (35%) 
  6. Endless tuning to get a radio signal (34%) 
  7. Classic ‘in car’ games such as ‘I Spy’ (34%) 
  8. Picking up hitchhikers (30%) 
  9. The rallying cry of ’are we there yet’ (24%)
  10. His and hers windscreen stickers (sunscreen strips) (23%)

Bygone experiences which just missed out on a top 10 placement included changing your own spare tyre (23%), the discovery of local radio stations being picked up as you drive through a hilly region (19%) and going for a Sunday family ‘leisure drive’ (19%). 

The survey also revealed that the countless hours spent on childhood car journeys hold vivid and cherished family memories for the vast majority (68%) of British adults.   

In car games such as ‘I Spy’ and imaginative checklists to spot road signs were also named as the most fondly remembered ‘motor memories’ of a now bygone era (67%) and whilst it may have been their parent’s worst nightmare the rallying cry of ‘are we there yet’ still has a place in Brit’s hearts with over half of those surveyed (56%) saying it was one of their most vivid family road trip memories.  

Conversely, arguments between parents over directions (44%), endlessly tuning to find radio stations (43%) and arguments over what radio station to listen to (37%) are the experiences we miss the least.  

Paddy McGuinness commented: “Kids now will never witness the delights of an A to Z or the games of eye spy in a very warm car. It was great to take a drive down memory lane in our old family cars for the new series.  One thing we all recalled with huge affection was the heartfelt chats we had with our parents on those long car journeys when we were growing up.”

The research, launched ahead of Mothers’ Day, reveals that over half of us find it easier to have deep and meaningful conversations with family whilst on a car journey.  53% of respondents recall memorable heart-to-hearts with mum on the road whilst 47% also delved into deeper ‘in-car’ conversations with their fathers.  Six in ten of those surveyed said they connected most with their parents while chatting in the car. 

Clare Pizey, Top Gear’s Executive Producer said: As this new survey would seem to prove, whilst long car journeys back in the day took for ever, weren’t always very comfortable – or indeed safe given lots of us didn’t have rear seat belts – what they did have was loads of family chats and games that have made precious memories. Fred, Chris and Paddy certainly felt like they were driving down memory lane when they drove their Dads’ cars recently and they all remembered just being with their parents in the car very fondly.”

Further findings revealed that 59% of Brits now identify satellite navigation aids as the number one piece of modern tech they would not want to live without followed by Hi-tech entertainment systems (12%) and sophisticated security features (8%).  

The new four-episode series of Top Gear, produced by BBC Studios, returns to screens this Sunday 14 March and will feature: a titanium-shoed presenting team being dragged down a Scottish runway by The Stig driving their cars; a tribute to the most famous and least well-known Bond cars; Freddie racing in the battery-powered-off-road Extreme E against a Jetpack man; and a ‘Mid-life Crisis Cars’ episode involving bicycles, lycra and jet skis! 

Top Gear starts this Sunday 14 March at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer

For more information, please contact Rosie Cope at Taylor Herring: RC@taylorherring.com

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