by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- Aura, an all-electric British sports car concept designed for nature, with sustainability at its core and efficiency driving its design, has been launched at CENEX-LCV, aimed to show what is possible for the future of driver’s cars
- Aura aims to reduce environmental impact through lightweight natural composites, low-drag surface design and optimised location of battery cells and motor; as well as cutting-edge in-cabin updates to eliminate range anxiety and maximise real-world driver feedback
- Two-seater, roofless concept designed, developed and built as a fully working, road legal prototype by four British specialists during the pandemic
- The Niche Vehicle Network (NVN) funded project created by a consortium of four British businesses including: Astheimer Design, BAMD Composites, Conjure and Potenza Technology, which started on 1 October 2020 and launched today
- Aiming to put a stop to range anxiety, bespoke Human Machine Interface (HMI) has software that finds quickest, easiest charge points and real-world energy optimisation and usage accurate to within 0.5 per cent of range
- Aura is the first British vehicle to run Android Automotive OS as well as having a self-levelling wheel-mounted driver display
- With a range of approximately 400 miles through an 88 kWh system output through two 44 kWh batteries, one front mounted, the other underneath the chassis for maintenance and optimum weight distribution
Over the Covid-enforced lockdown four British companies have been working on an all-electric two-seater roofless sports car, aimed to show what the future of driver’s cars could look like.
Designed for nature, with sculptural surfaces and a purity of design, Aura utilises natural fibre composites, efficient electric power as well as a modern look on driver infotainment and managing real-world range readings to within 0.5 per cent. The Aura concept car has been publicly unveiled at the CENEX-LCV show at Millbrook Proving Ground today.
Funded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) through the Niche Vehicle Network (NVN), the Aura concept car has been designed, developed and hand built by four innovative British suppliers. Each one a leader in their field, they started together to create a low emission sports car that is efficient on power and its demands on the world around it, through its engineering, design and technology inputs, on 1 October 2020. The concept came from the understanding that as the automotive industry evolves, and the transportation needs of individuals changes, there will be a demand for a product that encompasses these requirements. The consortium of British businesses had the vision of a long-range electric vehicle (EV) that is designed for nature with sustainability at its core, resulting in Aura, unveiled today after less than 12 months since the project started.
All four UK-based companies responsible for the Aura concept car have been pushing the boundaries of innovation and their specialist fields to showcase the efficiencies of light weight, low drag and innovative uses of technology to solve consumer issues with running an EV. From placing the batteries and motors in optimised positions to providing rear cowling to the wheels to reduce the strain on the sportscar as it glides through the air, the team has also incorporated natural composite fibres for the bodywork that are not only lightweight but more sustainable within the manufacturing process. Aiming to show that EV adoption is more accessible than users think, its cutting-edge HMI not only aims to reduce driver distraction through its driver infotainment (which includes a self-levelling driver display in the centre of the steering wheel) as well as reducing range anxiety through real-world map and charging availability.
The British companies behind Aura include, Astheimer Design, a design studio focused on delivering mobility solutions for a sustainable future. Its vision was a pure, simple, iconic low-drag, efficient design that has been analysed at length using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) testing. Maximising efficiency and the long-range of the Potenza Technology electric batteries and motors, Astheimer’s team added rear wheel covers and air curtains and large rear diffuser to reduce the vehicle’s overall wake, thus needing to use less energy and increasing Aura’s real-world range.
Using natural composite fibres from BAMD Composites and BCOMP natural woven fabric, the material specialist has added a lightweight but viable production option to manufacture the body panels, which again means that there’s less mass for the 44kWh (88kWh total) Potenza Technology batteries to power and drive the Aura sports car. BAMD’s use of natural fibres is also cleaner on the environment to produce and recycle compared to metal equivalents and has also been matched with sustainable vegan leather in the interior.
Aura is powered by a rear-wheel drive all-electric powertrain and is capable of a range of around 400 miles through two 44 kWh batteries (total 88 kWh). Thanks to innovative packaging, situating the battery at the front, and the other underneath the car’s chassis. Studied at length, the situation of the cells also improves driver dynamics and engagement for the driver due to the neutral weight distribution, with the engine bay pack located at the front of Aura and an undertray pack bolted to the chassis. It also means that the packs can easily be accessed for maintenance in the future. Potenza Technology’s powertrain team has fitted Aura with large diameter low rolling resistance wheels and tyres utilises its fifth generation of the Potenza Battery Management System, too.
Aiming to keep the focus on driving and the road ahead, Conjure has incorporated a five-inch, self-levelling, circular steering wheel-mounted display that has the key information such as range, weather and other relevant driving information. Working together with the ten-inch touchscreen in the middle of the cabin, both screens will be run by one single computing unit. Conjure has provided a virtual 3D view real-world performance and aerodynamic views that also updates the driver and allows them to update their driving styles to maximise their range based on their surroundings.
The enabling team behind Aura will be at CENEX-LCV show on the NVN stand at Millbrook Proving Ground, located at Govt. Pavilion, Hall 3 on 22 and 23 September and a range of events in the UK. If you would like see Aura and meet the team behind Britain’s first long-range EV, please contact info@auraconcept.co.uk or call 0207 403 5778 to hear about the full events calendar. Equally if you are a Tier One hardware or software provider who is looking to better understand AAOS or to get a real-world use-case integrated with a vehicle, please do get in touch at info@conjure.co.uk.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
Suzuki has revealed its new GSX-S1000GT, a new sports-tourer designed to take riders further, faster, without sacrificing comfort and practicality; it’s ready to power your journey in style.
Following a mantra of performance, distance, connection, the new GT provides all-day riding ability in a package designed to cover distances effortlessly, thanks to its characterful-yet-smooth 152PS engine, agile chassis and wind-cheating bodywork, and comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids and smartphone connectivity.
- A comfortable, upright riding position means the GSX-S1000GT can cover long distances with ease, while a plush pillion seat and optional hard luggage makes two-up touring a breeze. A tall screen and wind-cheating bodywork reduce rider fatigue.
- A comprehensive electronics suite comprises a plethora of rider aids, performance enhancing systems, and creature comforts to boost the GT’s touring ability, including a TFT dash with smartphone connectivity, cruise control, a bi-directional quickshifter, traction control, and selectable power modes.
- A striking new face with horizontal LED headlights and position lights creates a radical new look for the GT, along with LED rear combination lights and indicators. The new style is complemented by a new seat design, slim tail section and short, compact muffler, embodying a sport touring machine built for both speed and comfort.
- The whole package is powered by the inline-four cylinder engine found in the new GSX-S1000, which produces 152PS and 106Nm of torque, spread evenly across the rev range resulting in a smooth power delivery that builds into a strong top-end rush.
A true sports tourer
The GSX-S1000GT fits into Suzuki’s lineup as a true sports tourer, combining the perfect blend of performance, agility, stability, control, comfort, connectivity, and style to deliver a premium experience befitting the GT monika. The GT is equally at home crossing countries at speed on motorways and fast A-roads or carving through twisty mountain passes and winding B-roads.
Designed to be able to cover distances quickly and comfortably, the GT’s upright riding position is cocooned by wind-deflecting bodywork and a screen capable of diverting the air flow without hampering vision when being ridden sportily. A plush rider’s seat is complemented by a comfortable pillion pad with easily-reached grab rails and ample legroom, while optional hard luggage can accommodate full face helmets, ensuring the GT makes light work of two-up touring.
A performance-orientated chassis, engineered to be lightweight and agile, is also designed to offer a comfortable ride and soak up road imperfections, reducing rider fatigue on longer journeys. A comprehensive electronics package let’s the rider exploit the superbike-derived engine’s performance, aids rider comfort and enhances the GT’s ability to cover distances effectively and efficiently.
Electronics package
The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) found on the new GSX-S1000GT helps it fill its role as a versatile sports tourer.
A ride-by-wire throttle not only delivers smooth, linear engine response that mirrors twist grip input, it also allows the rider to choose from one of three selectable engine maps, based on the road conditions or riding styles. Mode A provides the most direct throttle response and reaches the top of its power curve at a lower rpm. Torque delivery provides exciting acceleration and, true to its superbike heritage, fully leverages the power of its 999cc engine.
Mode B reaches the same level of maximum output, but features a more linear curve with softer initial throttle response, with C providing the softest throttle response and more gentler torque characteristics, ideal in wet or trickier riding conditions.
A five-mode traction control system further supports the rider in a variety of riding conditions, from touring in adverse weather or enjoying a sporty ride, or whether riding alone or with a pillion or carrying luggage.
The higher the mode, the faster the control takes effect and the more proactive the system is in limiting wheel spin. The system is programmed to continuously monitor front and rear wheel speed, engine RPM, throttle position, and gear position. It is designed to immediately limit power and help prevent slipping when an imminent loss of traction is detected by controlling the throttle opening, ignition timing, and fuel injection rate.
Performance gains as well as reduced rider fatigue come from a bi-directional quickshifter, which enables the rider to shift up or down without operating the clutch lever, ensuring smoother, almost uninterrupted acceleration and slicker downshifts, working in conjunction with the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS).
Long motorway stints are made all the less arduous thanks to the GT’s cruise control system, which allows riders to set their speed and close the throttle. Suzuki Low RPM Assist and Easy Start System make starting and pulling away or riding in slow-moving traffic easy, with just one push of the starter button enough to fire the engine, and an automatic raising of the rpm at low engine speeds helps avoid stalling.
All information from the electronic systems are displayed via a 6.5” colour TFT dash, meaning riders can constantly monitor their chosen settings, and adjust on the move. As well as showing other readouts – such as speed, rpm, trip, range, gear indicator, and fuel level – the 6.5-inch TFT display is designed to support the smartphone connectivity features of the new Suzuki mySPIN app.
In contrast to similar products that employ systems developed for use in cars, the GT adopts hardware and software designed specifically for motorcycle use. As such, Suzuki mySPIN works seamlessly on the TFT screen to enrich the functionality of smartphone connectivity. The result is a smart cockpit environment that blends riding and vehicle status updates, such as the speedometer and tachometer readouts, with pertinent information, communication and entertainment from the rider’s smartphone.
By installing the free mySPIN app on their phone, the rider can access an array of useful functions, including maps for navigation, imported contact lists and hands-free communication, music connectivity, and calendar updates.
This functionality helps the GSX-S1000GT achieve its design goal of a true sports tourer, further enhancing the riding experience.
GT styling
A true sports tourer not only combines performance, comfort, and practicality, but it does so in style, and the same is true of the new GSX-S1000GT.
The striking face combines the pair of horizontally arranged LED headlights, new mirror design, and side mounted turn signals to create a look of advanced GT styling that proposes a new face for future Suzuki motorcycles. These elements combine with the new seat design, slim tail section and short, compact muffler design to create a sleek and luxurious image that emphasises the new GT’s prowess as a sports touring machine built for comfort and speed.
It is designed to be aerodynamically efficient, and to be easier to control and more comfortable, whether touring for long distances with a full load and a pillion or heading out for a sporty solo ride.
Luxury extends to the three available colour options: Metallic Triton Blue, representing Suzuki’s brand identity, as used on Suzuki’s MotoGP machines, Metallic Reflective Blue, a dark blue with a luxurious gloss finish, and Glass Sparkle Black, a combination of glossy and flat black.
Performance
Based on the new GSX-S1000 platform, the GT uses the same exciting 152PS inline-four cylinder engine that delivers smooth, consistent power throughout the rev range. It features a broad, smooth torque curve and a power delivery that reduces fatigue when touring at motorway speeds, but one that also shows its superbike roots when ridden enthusiastically, where the strong midrange thrust builds into an exciting top-end rush.
A compact 4-2-1 exhaust system positions the Suzuki Exhaust Tuning (SET) system behind the collector, along with catalytic converters and stylish exhaust that not only meets Euro 5 emissions standards, but also delivers an exciting exhaust note. Aural pleasure also comes from the airbox, which is designed to reduce intake resistance while delivering an impressive resonance.
Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) gives a light clutch lever operation, reducing rider fatigue especially when negotiating busy traffic. It also mitigates aggressive downshifts from sportier riding styles, too.
All this comes wrapped in the GSX-S1000’s sporty, lightweight frame with the same superbike-derived swingarm, ensuring high levels of performance in a variety of riding and usage conditions.
Fully adjustable 43mm KYB inverted front forks deliver a smooth ride, whether touring with a passenger or out enjoying a sporty ride. Rebound damping and spring preload adjustable link-type rear suspension contributes to agility and stability.
Attractive six-spoke cast aluminium wheels contribute to nimble handling and stability, shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Roadsport2 tyres that are custom engineered. Two four-piston Brembo monobloc front brake calipers bite 310mm floating discs to deliver strong, reliable braking performance and plenty of feel. Wide-set, rubber-mounted floating handlebars make for a comfortable riding position but with high levels of control and feel for sportier riding.
Pricing and availability
The new GSX-S1000GT will be available in Suzuki dealerships in November 2021, with an RRP of £11,599.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- Due to unprecedented customer demand, Citroën is pleased to announce that Citroën AMI will launch in the UK during spring 2022.
- More than 12,000 UK customers have already registered their interest in this exciting new vehicle.
- With the introduction of AMI, Citroën UK accelerates its quest to deliver affordable and clean mobility solutions that are accessible to all.
- The all-electric Citroën AMI addresses future urban mobility needs and boasts a zero-emissions range of up to 46 miles.
- UK versions of AMI will remain left-hand drive – allowing the driver the benefit of exiting the vehicle kerbside when parking at the roadside in city centres.
- A full UK driving licence will be required to drive Citroën AMI in the UK, as with traditional passenger cars.
- AMI has already impressed many industry experts, having won prizes in the GQ Car Awards 2021 and the Auto Express New Car Awards 2021.
- From today (Wednesday 22 September), over 12,000 customers who previously registered their interest on the Citroën.co.uk website will be able to secure their AMI with a £250 refundable reservation fee.
- From Monday 27 September the reservation system will be open to everyone.
- To find out more about Citroën AMI in the UK, please click the following link
Since making its debut in 2020, Citroën AMI has been turning heads around the world – not least here in the UK.
Much to the delight of a large and growing number of UK customers, the Citroën brand is now able to announce that the zero-emissions AMI will officially launch here in the spring of 2022.
From today, the first 12,000 customers who have already registered their interest online are invited to join the queue to secure their AMI with a £250 refundable reservation fee. From Monday 27 September the reservation system will be open to everyone.
All customers are reminded that AMI will be adapted for the UK market, but will remain left-hand drive. One significant benefit of AMIs left-hand drive configuration when being driven in the UK, is that it will allow for a kerbside exit from the vehicle for the driver when parking at the roadside in a city centre. For anyone driving AMI in the UK, a full UK driving licence is required as with a traditional passenger car.
A true breakthrough from Citroën, AMI is a daring response to the challenges faced in today’s cities and urban environments. As a 100% electric vehicle, AMI emits zero-emissions in use and has a 5.5kWh battery that recharges in just three hours. With a range of 46 miles and a top speed of 28mph, AMI is a modern solution that delivers on Citroën’s promise to provide affordable and clean mobility solutions for all.
Since it was first revealed in February 2020, Citroën AMI has received significant interest from UK buyers and national media alike. The vehicle continues to receive widespread acclaim from industry experts, taking home the ‘Microcar of the Year’ title in the GQ Car Awards 2021 and the ‘Technology Award’ in the Auto Express New Car Awards 2021.
AMI’s zero-emission credentials ensure it is exempt from Congestion and Ultra-low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) charges. With London’s ULEZ due to be extended in October 2021, and other cities looking to introduce similar measures, AMI is a ‘future-proof’ solution to mobility concerns in many UK cities.
With a length of only 2.41m and an incredibly tight turning circle, Citroën AMI is compact and agile, providing an easy solution for navigating busy streets and fitting into narrow parking spaces. The undeniably quirky Citroën AMI has space for the driver, a passenger and one small item if luggage, with the heated interior bathed in light thanks to the model’s panoramic glass sunroof. In a nostalgic nod the iconic Citroën 2CV, the manual side windows of AMI can be opened by flipping the glass upwards into a fixed raised position. Buyers have access to a wide range of personalisation options, thanks to colourful accessory packs and additions that allow each owner to make their Citroën AMI truly unique.
Eurig Druce, Managing Director of Citroën UK, said: “I am absolutely delighted to announce that Citroën AMI is launching in the UK. With cities and urban areas introducing stricter limits for vehicles, and people demanding new mobility solutions, AMI shows once again how Citroën is adapting to meet the demands of the times. Citroën AMI is a new all-electric mobility solution for the UK that’s totally unique – fun, exciting and accessible to all.
“After thousands of UK buyers have already registered their interest in Citroën AMI, we are very excited to confirm that the AMI will arrive in the country in spring 2022.”
Citroën AMI is the latest vehicle available to UK drivers within Citroën’s ever-growing electrified vehicle range. Models already in UK showrooms include the all-electric New ë-C4 hatchback and ë-SpaceTourer MPV, plus C5 Aircross SUV Hybrid. By 2025, Citroën will offer an electrified variant across its entire model line-up.
UK pricing and supply arrangements will be communicated in due course.
To find out more about Citroën AMI in the UK, please click the following link
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
Over the years, uShip has been helping clients across the globe find the best auto shipping companies.
The company stands out from the rest because it’s relatively easy to use and gives customers control over price. More importantly, uShip offers a $500 guarantee to cover theft and damages if they occur.
Although the company is known for easy access and mobile tracking features, there are five more things you need to know about uShip. You can also read uship reviews to learn more.
uShip Is Not a Carrier
uShip is an online market platform established in 2003 to connect shipping companies with potential customers. The company has its headquarters in Austin, Texas. Many customers prefer transacting with uShip for the following reasons.
- The platform has a vast shipping network that connects customers with 788,000 carriers.
- It reduces research time for potential customers, allowing them to list their shipments and have independent movers bid for their business.
- Besides vehicle shipping, uShip also helps you ship household items, animals, heavy equipment, and many more.
Coverage Options
uShip doesn’t cover cars in its regular insurance. Its coverage is specifically for household items. So if you want to ship with them, you’ll have to do the legwork yourself of verifying if your carrier is insured. However, it has a $500 guarantee for stolen or damaged shipments.
Getting a Quote
It is relatively easy to get a quote from uShip’s website. First, visit the company’s quote tool, which will ask you some basic questions such as your car’s model and year of manufacture and your destination.
After filling the form, uShip will connect you with its network of carriers. Any potential shipper will then email you their quotes requesting to offer their services.
Shipping Costs
Here are the factors that determine the shipping price for your vehicle:
- The precise pickup and drop-off location
- The size and model of the car
- If the car is functional or not
- The time of year
- How quickly the customer needs the car transported
Instead of referring you back to the uShip calculator, this guide shows a range of their prices.
| |
New York, NY
|
Los Angeles, CA
|
Miami, FL
|
|
Phoenix, AZ
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$1300
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$500
|
$1050
|
|
San Francisco, CA
|
$1350
|
$435
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$1300
|
|
Los Angeles, CA
|
$1400
|
—
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$1200
|
|
Honolulu, HI
|
$4500
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$3000
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$3600
|
|
Boston, MA
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$450
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$1400
|
$1100
|
|
New York, NY
|
—
|
$1400
|
$1200
|
|
Atlanta, GA
|
$700
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$1000
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$450
|
|
Miami, FL
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$1200
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$1050
|
—
|
|
Chicago, IL
|
$800
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$1100
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$925
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|
Dallas, MA
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$850
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$750
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$550
|
uShip Vehicle Shipping Services
uShip allows customers to list their cars, select the company they want, and then coordinate the shipping process through the contacts accessible on the uShip platform. Below are the shipping services to expect:
- Open transport: It’s the cheapest option. However, your car is exposed to bad weather and debris when being transported.
- Enclosed shipping: It’s costlier as it protects the vehicle from bad weather conditions and dirt.
- Home delivery service: Your vehicle is dropped to the closest area of your home.
- Terminal to terminal transport: Ensures the car is shipped to particular terminals instead of your home or workplace.
- Car-hauling service: Transports your vehicle together with others to reduce shipping costs.
- Single-car shipping: You can choose between an open or a closed trailer.
- Expedited car shipping service: This begins 24 to 48 hours after placing your order.
Note that uShip doesn’t vet its network of carriers thoroughly. The platform doesn’t require the shippers to provide Department of Transportation numbers or any insurance registration numbers. Therefore, it is up to you to thoroughly vet the carrier of your choice to avoid inconveniences.
The Bottom Line
The company has been in the shipping space since 2003, and therefore it has proven industry experience. You don’t have to call carrier services one after another; uShip can connect you to its vast network of carriers.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
- A truly fabulous example of the 1986 Porsche 911 3.2 SSE Coupe from long term ownership
- 1987 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth offered from 30 years of current ownership
- A freshly restored 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 4.2 Fixed Head Coupe
- 1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible with just one owner from new
The catalogue for Classic Car Auctions (CCA) forthcoming sale has a fantastic line up; with 130 cars, including a number of restored classics as well as those from long-term ownership.
The auction, The Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show Sale 2021, is taking place at Stoneleigh Park this Saturday, on 25th September. One of the stand-out entries is a truly fabulous 1986 Porsche 911 3.2 SSE Coupe which has been owned by the vendor for an incredible 32 years. The UK-supplied example is smartly presented in Black with a grey leather pinstripe cloth interior and has just over 70,000 miles on the clock – estimated at £70,000 – 80,000.
Also offered from significantly long-term ownership is this 1987 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, which has been with the vendor for the past 30 years. Classically finished in Diamond White with a grey cloth Recaro interior, it has been sympathetically upgraded with a full Scorpion stainless exhaust, a Stage 1 remap and upgraded turbo actuator with the work carried out by Brooklyn Ford’s RS Department. The 65,000-odometer reading is supported by a large history file and this modern classic is estimated at £50,000 – 60,000.
Gary Dunne, CCA’s Sales Manager commented “We are delighted to welcome bidders into the auction hall here at Stoneleigh Park from Wednesday 22nd, through to the morning of the auction on the 25th. This is a fantastic opportunity to view and inspect any cars or interest as well as their all-important history files. We have put together another fantastic catalogue of cars and if you can’t join us in person, we are still offering online and telephone bidding – so you can bid from anywhere in the world.”
A number of Jaguars will cross the block on Saturday, including this freshly restored 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 4.2 Fixed Head Coupe. Factory finished in Pale Primrose; it has recently benefited from a photo-documented ground-up restoration. Estimated at £45,000 – 50,000, the standard of work is superb, with a smart black interior and an immaculate engine bay.
This 1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible will be offered for sale from its sole owner from new; supplied new to them on 29th September 1989! Finished in Westminster Blue over Oatmeal leather, this much-loved car has had investment over the years, including work by marque specialists, Swallows. Estimated at £23,000 – 26,000, this car’s story was told in the Jaguar Enthusiasts Magazine in October 2018.
Bidding for the sale can be done in the auction hall in person at Stoneleigh Park, or alternatively from home via phone, online or commission. To register to bid, contact Classic Car Auctions on 01926 640888 or email bid@classiccarauctions.co.uk prior to the auction day.
Images
1986 Porsche 911 3.2 SSE Coupe
1987 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth
1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 4.2 Fixed Head Coupe
1989 Jaguar XJ-S Convertible
Forthcoming Auctions
Saturday 25th September – The Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show Sale
Saturday 11th December – The December Sale
Links
Website: http://www.classiccarauctions.co.uk
Twitter: www.twitter.com/classiccarauc
Facebook: www.facebook.com/classiccarauc
About Classic Car Auctions (CCA)
Classic Car Auctions (CCA) is a specialist auction house for the sale of ‘Everyman’ classic cars; offering enthusiasts the opportunity to buy an impressive selection of iconic classic cars from across the eras.
Created in 2015 by the highly respected team from Silverstone Auctions and now an established business itself; we have a consistent sales rate of over 75% for the last three years and have proudly sold over £15,000,000 worth of cars during the same period.
The majority of our sales are held in and around Warwickshire. Here our sales average a total of £1.5 million, with hundreds of dedicated buyers attending the one-day sale of approximately 150 cars each time. We are also established at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show which is held annually at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, where we have been the official auction partner for the last three years.
At CCA our aim is to make buying and selling a classic car as easy and as straight-forward as possible. Our dedicated team of knowledgeable classic car specialists will provide sellers with honest and realistic estimates, combined with worldwide marketing and well-presented sale days which will help your car achieve a great price. We offer buyers a fantastic selection of affordable classic cars presented with extensive information and detailed condition reports along with low buyer’s fees.
If you’d like to know more about buying or selling a classic car with Classic Car Auctions, call us today on 01926 640888 or email enquiries@classiccarauctions.co.uk.
by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog
The newly appointed leader of the Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance today (21/9/21) urges the industry and enthusiasts to embrace the challenge of the green agenda.
Garry Wilson, who becomes the HCVA’s first CEO says: “A big part of the job will be making sure the sector has a share of the voice as part of the UK automotive industry and heritage sector”.
“I think we need to embrace the environmental challenge and work with legislators to identify solutions – while at the same time demonstrating very clearly the environmental credentials of the classic movement”.
“How can we help the sector become environmentally cleaner, whilst highlighting how it is ALREADY environmentally friendly?”
Garry, 58, is determined the campaigning group, which launched just four months ago, will collaborate with other classic and historic organisations and across the automotive world to ensure policy makers and regulators understand the sector’s priorities and concerns.
He says: “We have to work in partnership with the mainstream motor industry and motorsport to achieve sustainable results. We have to get our voice out there so that our £18.3billion industry is on people’s minds.”
A perfect fit for the HCVA leadership role, Garry is looking forward to meeting members and hearing their views. He began his motor industry journey as a Rover Group graduate trainee in the mid-1980s working his way through various engineering and managerial jobs over 13 years. His post Rover career has included an impressive range of senior roles in automotive sector engineering, innovation, manufacturing and supply businesses.
Recently he’s played a key part in managing the transformation the sector is undergoing helping to establish the Driving the Electric Revolution Industrialisation Centre and the Advanced Propulsion Centre which facilitates funding to UK-based projects developing low-carbon emission technologies.
“The automotive industry has been my life for more than 35 years. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to deliver positive impact – not short term, but genuinely sustainable impact – for a sector I am passionate about,” says the Herefordshire based father of two. “Classics, historics and motorsport – are my passion, but I’m no dyed in the wool petrolhead. On electrification I appreciate both sides of the argument and absolutely believe there should be room for both electric and ICE vehicles now and into the future. I want to work with others to ensure a future that allows both to thrive. For the past seven years I’ve been working in industry helping to establish the Driving the Electric Revolution Industrialisation Centre and the Advanced Propulsion Centre. What I hope to do now is bring the same thinking, the same energy and commitment to the classic sector.”
Current daily driver is a BMW 5 series, Garry owns or has owned an impressive selection of classics. He describes himself as a ‘neo-Classic guy’. Pride and joy is a 1969 Rover P5B coupe. The new CEO also speaks fondly of a 20 year old BMW Z3 2.8, a 25 year old Land Rover Defender and identifies rallying in a 1980s MG Metro 6R4 as ‘my big passion’. He is a qualified off-road driving instructor, an advanced motorcyclist and holds a motorsport competition licence.
On the task ahead he says: “The big challenges are the immediacy of E10, classics registration, the general movement away from fossil fuels and the development of synthetic fuels. And, of course the skills challenge is a huge issue in the UK at the moment, particularly from the perspective of the age demographics. I’m a big admirer of the Heritage Skills Academy and I want to work with them to enhance the work they are doing”.
“I’m a firm believer in two-way electrification – when you take out an engine and a fuel tank from one of the UK’s heritage vehicles and replace it with an electric power system you should do it in a way that allows an owner to reverse the process later if they need to. It shouldn’t be one way only.”
HCVA Advisory Board chair Julian Barratt said: “It’s great to have a CEO of Garry’s energy and experience on board. I look forward to working with him very closely on our campaigns for the benefit of our members and the classic vehicle world we all care deeply about”
The ‘not for profit’ alliance was launched in May with a mission to protect and promote the sector and secure its long-term future. It campaigns on behalf of individuals and companies in the classic vehicle world including specialist restorers, dealers, parts suppliers and a broad cross section of the multi-billion-pound industry.
In just four months HCVA has built a strong membership base across the industry, owners and enthusiasts. It has attracted widespread publicity in mainstream and specialist media and gained the support of politicians, campaigners and leading industry and motorsport figures. Amongst the HCVA’s early achievements is to open a new dialogue with the DVLA to seek solutions to the problem of issuing of original or age-related registrations. It has also led campaigning to raise awareness of challenges around the introduction this month of E10 fuel.
The sector’s contribution to the UK economy is huge. Annual turnover including substantial international trade is estimated at £18.3 billion, the three-million-strong British classic fleet is valued at over £12 billion and annual tax revenue generated for the exchequer is close to £3 billion.
The trade, in which British craft skills and engineering excellence lead the world, supports around 113,000 jobs in thousands of specialist small businesses and supply chain firms. It also provides training places and apprenticeship schemes, giving opportunities to young people.
Web: www.hcva.co.uk – Twitter: @hcvauk – Instagram – hcvauk
