A landmark transformation plan for Lamborghini’s sustainability path: from product electrification to the Sant’Agata Bolognese site
Top product performance: the absolute priority throughout the entire electrification program
Roadmap incorporates celebration of the combustion engine and the range’s hybrid transition by 2024
Internal target defined: 50% less product CO2 emissions by the beginning of 2025
The largest investment in Lamborghini’s history: more than 1.5 billion euros over four years
Vision of a fourth fully-electric model in the second part of the decade
Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, today presents “Direzione Cor Tauri” (Towards Cor Tauri): a roadmap to decarbonization of future Lamborghini models and of the Sant’Agata Bolognese site based on a holistic approach to its environmental sustainability strategy.
Throughout the product electrification process, Lamborghini will focus continually on identifying technologies and solutions that guarantee top performance and driving dynamics in keeping with the marque’s tradition. In reference to the logo chosen by company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini in 1963, Cor Tauri is the brightest star in the Taurus constellation, and represents Lamborghini’s move towards a future that is electrified but always faithful to the heart and soul of the ‘bull’ brand.
Winkelmann commented: “Lamborghini’s electrification plan is a newly-plotted course, necessary in the context of a radically-changing world, where we want to make our contribution by continuing to reduce environmental impact through concrete projects. Our response is a plan with a 360 degree approach, encompassing our products and our Sant’Agata Bolognese location, taking us towards a more sustainable future while always remaining faithful to our DNA.Lamborghini has always been synonymous with preeminent technological expertise in building engines boasting extraordinary performance: this commitment will continue as an absolute priority of our innovation trajectory. Today’s promise, supported by the largest investment plan in the brand’s history, reinforces our deep dedication to not only our customers, but also to our fans, our people and their families, as well as to the territory where the company was born in Emilia-Romagna and to Made in Italy excellence.”
Cor Tauri, Lamborghini’s roadmap, will comprise of three phases:
Celebrating the combustion engine (2021-2022) by presenting models paying tribute to the company’s recent period of continuous success. In the wake of steady sales growth and a seven-fold increase in turnover over the last fifteen years, Lamborghini has established itself as a center of excellence in the production of the best super sports cars. Unique design, technological innovation at the highest levels backed by huge investments in research and development, and the highest quality and craftsmanship are the basis for a pyramid of products: from the Urus Super SUV, the cornerstone of today’s success, rising to the pinnacle of technology and design masterpieces with the limited series. The most recently unveiled, the Sián, kicked off the electrification journey: the first Lamborghini featuring hybrid technology. This phase will be characterized by the development of combustion engines for versions that pay homage to the brand’s glorious history and iconic products past and present, but always under the impetus of the visionary spirit that distinguishes Lamborghini. Two new cars in the V12 model line-up will be announced in 2021.
Hybrid transition (by the end of 2024): in 2023 Lamborghini will launch its first hybrid series production car, and by the end of 2024 the entire range will be electrified. Performance and the authentic Lamborghini driving experience will remain the focus of the company’s engineers and technicians in developing new technologies, and the application of lightweight carbon fiber materials will be crucial in compensating for weight due to electrification. The company’s internal target for this phase is to reduce product CO2 emissions by 50% by the beginning of 2025.
Leading the hybrid transition will be an unprecedented investment: more than 1.5 billion euros allocated over four years, the largest in Lamborghini’s history. It is a tangible sign of the company’s strong sense of responsibility towards the need for a concrete response, through significant innovations, to the period of profound transformation that is affecting the whole automotive industry.
First fully-electric Lamborghini (second half of the decade): acceleration in the second part of the decade will be dedicated to full-electric vehicles, with the vision of a fourth model in the future. Once again, technological innovation in this phase will be oriented towards ensuring remarkable performance, and positioning the new product at the top of its segment. This is how Lamborghini sees the culmination of this part of its journey: Cor Tauri, the brightest star in the constellation to which the company’s roadmap points, is represented by a fourth fully-electric model.
Lamborghini’s program towards 2030 starts from a holistic vision of the company’s sustainability strategy: a 360° approach that spans product to the Sant’Agata Bolognese site, from the production lines to the offices. The 160,000 square-meter area achieved CO2 neutral certification in 2015, which was maintained even after the production site was doubled in size in recent years. In addition to reducing CO2 emissions, environmental protection, sustainability in the supply chain, attention to employees and corporate social responsibility are integral parts of this strategy.
The heart and compass of the Cor Tauri transformation plan is the brand’s DNA, and its innate ability to turn challenges into opportunities through continuous technological innovations, leading to improved performance and driving emotions but within the constraints imposed by the increasingly stringent CO2 regulations. A journey towards a new Lamborghini, but always faithful to itself and its roots.
Brands Hatch, 16 May 2021 – Han Sikkens and Lucky Khera share wins in the opening Trofeo Pirelli races of the season, with Graham de Zille winning both races in the Coppa Shell.
Saturday
Trofeo Pirelli. Rain forced the drivers onto wets whilst the cars were on the grid minutes before the start of the race. Due to standing water on several corners, the Safety Car was deployed just before the half-way point and, after a thrilling re-start, Lucky Khera (Graypaul Birmingham) successfully managed to re-take his position from John Dhillon (Graypaul Nottingham), but was unable to catch Han Sikkens (H.R. Owen London) for the win. Dhillon kept the fast-paced Paul Hogarth (Stratstone Manchester) behind him to secure the final step on the podium.
Coppa Shell. Graham de Zille (Meridien Modena) started from pole position in his class and took his first win of the season. Laurent De Meeus (H.R. Owen London) worked his way from 10th on the grid to finish 2nd in his class in the very challenging conditions. Paul Rogers (JCT600 Brooklands) held his nerve and completed the podium.
Sunday
Trofeo Pirelli. After another dry qualifying session with Khera taking pole, rain once again forced the drivers onto wets whilst the cars were on the grid minutes before the start of the race. The rain soon eased but the track remained wet and slippery throughout the race. The race winner, Khera, led from start to finish, with Dhillon in 2nd and Sikkens in 3rd.
Coppa Shell. De Zille continued Saturday’s form, starting from pole position in his class and third overall. He took his second win of the season, finishing third overall. In his first Ferrari Challenge UK race weekend, De Meeus had an impressive start to his championship, finishing second in both races. Paul Simmerson (Graypaul Birmingham) lost out to De Meeus but still secured his first podium finish of the season.
Pirelli Ferrari formula classic
Saturday. In the first race of the season, Chris Butler won in his 328 GTB, with Vance Kearney and Wayne Marrs finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively, each in a F355 Challenge.
Sunday. In the second race of the weekend, Chris Butler secured his second win of the season with Wayne Marrs, while Robert Rees completed the podium in his 328 GTB.
In the final race of the weekend, Chris Butler completed a hat trick of wins. Peter Everingham and Myles Poulton finished second and third in their 328 GTB and 328 GTS respectively.
Schedule. The next event in the Ferrari Challenge UK season will be at Donington Park on the 12-13th June.
2021 Calendar:
14-16 May Brands Hatch Indy & Grand Prix 12-13 June Donington Park 10-11 July Snetterton 17-19 September Silverstone – Ferrari Racing Days 01-02 October Oulton Park
SSE introduces Renault Zoe Van E-Tech 100% electric to its commercial vehicle fleet
Zoe Van chosen for its range of up to 245 miles, comfort and attractive Whole Life Costs
Zero tailpipe-emissions-in-use vans to be deployed across Scotland for supervisory site visits
Each Zoe Van will generate an estimated saving of 23.5 tonnes of CO2 for SSE over a five-year period
Zoe Van is more affordable for SSE to run than a comparable ICE vehicle
The Zoe Van benefits from a five-year/100,000-mile warranty
Priced from £23,450 (excluding VAT) after the Plug-in Van Grant (PiVG)
SSE, one of the UK’s leading utility providers, has identified the Renault Zoe Van as being the ideal vehicle to help with the electrification of its commercial vehicle fleet and contribute to the company’s commitment to have ‘net zero’ carbon emissions by 2050 at the latest.
The business has introduced a quartet of Zoe Van’s into its commercial vehicle fleet after the UK’s only fully electric car-derived van was recognised as the perfect replacement for several ICE vehicles where the range of existing commercial-focused EVs had previously compromised the transition to pure electric power. SSE is set to take delivery of a further eight with more in the pipeline.
SSE’s new Zoe Van’s will be used by its supervisors and team leaders to visit the company’s operational sites and developments throughout Scotland. The award-winning Zoe Van has a range of up to 245 miles on a single charge enables SSE’s personnel to visit more remote areas, particular in the north west of the country, where the charging infrastructure can be limited, while enjoying the refinements and drive associated with the Zoe E-tech 100% electric passenger car upon which it is based. At the same time, the dedicated load area allows operatives to easily and cleanly transport the specialised tools, wet weather clothing and PPE they require for their roles.
As well as enabling SSE to continue its drive to have 3,500 of its 4,000 commercial vehicles fully electrified by 2030, the Zoe Van will help the company to lower its environmental impact in terms of both emissions and noise. Notably, SSE estimates that over a five-year period each Zoe Van will provide a saving of 23.5 tonnes of CO2.
In addition to the driving range of the Zoe Van, SSE’s decision was influenced by its Whole Life Costs being lower than those of a similar-sized petrol car-derived van, offering significant savings in terms of fuel, VED and servicing costs. The spread and support of the Renault dealer network, plus the standard eight-year battery warranty, further enhanced the appeal of the Zoe Van to SSE, while its flexible charging means SSE’s personnel will be able to charge their vehicles at home without issue.
The Zoe Van were converted to SSE’s specification by Renault-accredited converter, Qi, which added details including a hygiene station and fire extinguisher. All were specified in Business trim, which includes such standard features as full LED headlights, automatic air conditioning, heated electrically adjustable door mirrors, cruise control/speed limiter, EASY LINK radio with 7-inch touch screen and Smartphone integration with Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM. Completing the new Zoe Van is a unique wrap by Mediafleet, which haloes their pure electric power and even glows in the dark to ensure that SSE’s commitment to electrifying its commercial fleet can be seen day and night!
Neil Chamberlain, National EV Manager, SSE, said: “As an EV100 company that is committed to switching its fleet to electric, and with our focus on renewable energy and making a significant contribution to building low-carbon electricity systems fit for the future, introducing the Zoe Van to our operations fits perfectly with our strategy and ethos. The range of electric LCVs has always been a bit of an issue in the past for the roles that these vehicles are used for, so that of the Zoe Van now gives us the option to make the transition and look at other areas where a van is traditionally used but there isn’t a need for a high payload. The comfort is a big benefit to our operatives and, for those that are negotiating the narrower, more demanding roads of the Highlands, the compact dimensions are another welcome bonus. With the Zoe Van we’re further lowering our environmental impact at no detriment to our operational costs or effectiveness.”
Vincent Tourette, Managing Director, Renault UK, commented: “SSE is a significant driver of innovation in the energy sector, so it’s very pleasing to see such a forward-thinking company recognise that the Renault Zoe Van fits with both their operational requirements and green energy strategy. We’re delighted that its combination of practicality, range and refinement has now presented SSE with another avenue through which to grow the electrification of its commercial fleet.”
The Zoe Van is based on the multi award-winning Zoe electric passenger car, which won the ‘Best Small Electric Car’ category in the 2020 What Car? Awards and which has been honoured at the annual What Car? ceremony for the last seven years. The commercial version is already an award-winner, having recently won the compact van ‘Best Value for Ownership Costs’ category in the new What Car? Van Awards.
Combining the same advanced specification of the Zoe with a load volume of one cubic metre and a maximum payload of up to 457kg excluding the driver (Business specification), the Zoe Van is available in two generous trim levels – Business and Business+.
It offers a WLTP combined range of up to 245 miles on a single charge on Business models and via the 50kW DC charging option can be charged from zero to 80 per cent in just one hour and ten minutes. Its R110 motor delivers zero to 31mph acceleration in only 3.9 seconds – making the Zoe Van electric ideal for urban journeys with stop-start traffic, and a perfect fit for tasks such as multidrop deliveries, and for use by utility companies and local authorities, for example. All of which are completed with zero tailpipe emissions.
As it’s based on the regular Zoe, the Zoe Van benefits from the same assurances that Zoe customers enjoy. That means it boasts a five-year, 100,000-mile warranty that gives customers greater peace of mind, mirroring the rest of Renault’s car range. The first two years feature unlimited mileage restrictions, while the remaining three have a 100,000-mile limit. In addition, the E-Tech electric 50 battery receives an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
The Zoe Van is priced from £23,450 (excluding VAT) after the Plug-in Van Grant (PiVG).
Renault PRO+ now offers the widest range of all-electric commercial vehicles of any manufacturer, the line-up also including the Renault Kangoo E-Tech 100% electric and the Renault Master E-Tech 100% electric. For details of the Renault PRO+ E-Tech 100% electric range, please visit www.renault.co.uk/live-electric/business
David Brown Automotive takes covers off Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition with the full unveil of the ultra-performance focused iconic city car
The most powerful Mini Remastered ever features a 1,450cc engine with twin SU carburettors for a power output of 125hp at 6,200 rpm, torque output of 113 ft-lb at 4,500 rpm and a 0-62mph time of 7.8 seconds
Performance enhancements from powertrain tuning specialists, Oselli Engineering, make Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition over 70% more powerful than the standard model
Race-ready Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition can be custom-built with bucket seats, half-roll cage, multi-point harness seatbelts, suspension upgrades and limited-slip differential
At home in the fast lane of city roads or as a weekend racetrack machine, the newest model from David Brown Automotive can be ordered as a four-seater car or stripped back for the circuit as a two-seater complete with a hand-trimmed, leather-lined roll cage
Oselli, experts in engine tuning and founded in the 1960s, offers considerable experience with the Mini ‘A-Series’powertrain units for peak performances in racing events
Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition is hand-built to order, with models made at David Brown Automotive’s specialist build facility in Silverstone, before moving to the workshop of Buckinghamshire-based Oselli for engine tuning and performance enhancement
Formula 1 reserve driver, Jack Aitken, is the face of Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition as the young racing star is announced as a Brand Ambassador for the launch of the performance car, having owned a classic Mini as his first car
David Brown Automotive is delighted to reveal the new Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition in full, with the first examples completed and customer deliveries starting now for the highly tuned performance version of the luxury marque’s celebrated iconic city car.
Made in partnership with race powertrain specialists, Oselli, the new car from David Brown Automotive is the most performance-focused version of the Mini Remastered created to date by the company.
Hand-made to order in the Silverstone build facility of David Brown Automotive, and with a drivetrain engineered in partnership with Oselli, the acclaimed British engine tuning specialist first founded in the 1960s, the one-of-a-kind and race-ready city car is the most powerful Mini Remastered ever created. The car launches with a power rating of 125 hp at 6,200 rpm, a torque rating of 113 ft-lb at 4,500 rpm and an impressive 0-62mph time of 7.8 seconds. Designed and engineered to have a dual personality, Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition is just as comfortable on city streets as it is on the racetrack.
Key performance enhancements to make Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition ready for the track include a number of expert technical changes overseen by Oselli, including a hand-ported and polished cylinder head, strengthened crankshaft, high-torque performance orientated camshaft, twin-SU carburettor set-up, a limited-slip differential; together with other sports-centric tuning around the car including high-performance brakes by AP Racing, sports-orientated suspension by Bilstein and a free-flowing sports exhaust system. The car is made with larger 13-inch wheels fitted with high-speed-approved tyres to maintain grip on the road or track surface. Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition is constructed with a remastered five-speed gearbox, while an automatic version is also available (offered as a four-speed set-up, with a 1,380cc engine).
A selection of unique exterior colourways are available with contrasting stripes that carry through to the interior design. A choice of ‘Carbon Grey’ and ‘Old English White’ base colours match the accents in either ‘Competition Red’, ‘Royal Blue’ or ‘Heritage Green’. All exterior graphics are hand-painted for an extremely high-quality finish. Monochrome, hand-enameled badging – used by David Brown Automotive in other performance limited-edition models, such as the Speedback Silverstone Edition, launched in 2018 – adorns the exterior of Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition and the look is completed with full black chrome brightware.
The grille of the performance car shows the number ‘60’ in contrasting hues as a nod not only to the race numbers that show on cars taking to the track, but also to the 60 years since the original Mini first rolled off the production line. Also on the front of the car, full LED lighting with auxiliary spot lights shines the way with clear, modern and powerful beams of light.
A number of new interior design options also live up to the standard of the performance-orientated classic car’s sporty look and feel. Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition can be ordered in either a two- or four-seat configuration, with the two-seater featuring bucket seats shaped for a thrilling ride and a rear hand-trimmed roll cage, while a four-point seatbelt harness adds to the feel of a car intended for the racetrack. There is also the option to order the car with twin fuel tanks for extra mileage range on longer journeys or race events. An interior lined with hand-trimmed luxury leather and Alcantara materials emphasises the premium look and feel of Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition.
Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition was first unveiled towards the end of 2019, and David Brown Automotive has been working hard with the team at Buckinghamshire-based Oselli since to refine the high performance version of the classic city car, which will be limited to 60 bespoke models.
Formula 1 test driver, Jack Aitken, is the face of Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition. The young racing star, who is a true Mini devotee having personally owned a version of the classic city car for a number of years, is announced as a David Brown Automotive Brand Ambassador for the launch the performance car.
Oselli is a prominent force in the classic car performance and restoration sector, beginning business in the early-1960s and forming a niche to specialise in tuning and enhancing performance for the A-series engine. The expert team at Oselli has a wealth of experience rebuilding and improving engines for a performance experience, as well as preparing, building and racing cars in competitive motorsport events.
Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition is available to order now in both right and left-hand drive. Enquiries can be made via David Brown Automotive directly or via their distributors and agents in overseas markets. Pricing is available on application.
Citroën UK has opened its order books for new ë-Berlingo, the all-electric version of the brand’s multi-award winning MPV.
Prices and specifications are now confirmed – with new ë-Berlingo available in five-seat and seven-seat form – and with prices starting from £29,575*.
The zero emissions new ë-Berlingo features a 50kWh Lithium-ion battery pack and a 100kW (136hp) electric motor, allowing the new model to achieve a range of up to 174 miles**. Ideal for both private and fleet or business users, new ë-Berlingo supports up to 100kW rapid (DC) charging, with an 80% re-charge taking less than 30 minutes, while a full charge from a 7.4 kW single-phase wallbox takes 7.5 hours thanks to the 7.4kW on-board charger. Customers with access to three-phase power can specify an optional 11kW on-board charger that will charge new ë-Berlingo in 4 hours 45 minutes, when using a wallbox that also supports this faster home-charging solution.
Capable of seating five, or up to seven people comfortably (XL body length only), and with a range of up to 174 miles** from a single charge, new ë-Berlingo offers both private and business users a unique choice of vehicle. With zero emissions, new ë-Berlingo also keeps running costs low for fleet operators and drivers, with a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 1%***, and exemption from London congestion and ultra-low emissions charges.
Drivers have a choice of three driving modes: Eco, Normal and Power, to suit a variety of driving conditions. To optimise range, new ë-Berlingo also features a regenerative braking system, with drivers able to activate a ‘B’ mode via the central console to maximise energy recovery during braking.
PRACTICALITY & VERSATILITY
New ë-Berlingo is available as ‘M’ (Medium) or ‘XL’ variants with M versions measuring 4,403mm long and 1,844mm high. The XL version is 4,753mm long and 1,849mm high.
All versions are 2,107mm wide (with door mirrors folded out), and thanks to a specially adapted power steering system, have an agile turning circle of just 10.8m. M versions come with five seats, while the XL version features two additional folding seats in a third row, bringing the total occupant capacity up to seven.
Boot space in M versions ranges from 775-litres to 3,500-litres with all passenger seats folded forward, while the XL model increases available boot space to between 1,050-litres and 4,000-litres. M versions can carry items up to 2.70m in length, while the larger XL model comes with a 3.05m maximum load length.
For improved storage flexibility, all M versions come with a two-height parcel shelf, while the XL version features a retractable parcel shelf. In total there are 26 different storage compartments inside new ë-Berlingo, which combine to add an extra 167-litres of useable space in the cabin.
TRIM LEVELS
From launch in the UK, new ë-Berlingo is available with two trim choices, ‘Feel’ and ‘Flair XTR’, with Feel models available as M or XL variants, while Flair XTR is sold exclusively in M length.
Feel
Feel models come as standard with 16-inch steel wheels with a ‘Twirl’ cover design, LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, Airbump® technology, electric door mirrors and automatic windscreen wipers. All versions also feature sliding side doors.
Inside, all Feel models come with a ‘Nemo’ grained interior ambiance, Green Mica Cloth, a folding front passenger seat and a 1/3 – 2/3 folding second row bench. All models come with tray tables on the back of the front seats.
All Feel models are delivered as standard with a capacitive eight-inch touchscreen, featuring both Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto. To ensure the safety of drivers, passengers and other road users, Feel models come with Citroën’s Safety Pack that features Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Safety Brake, Cruise Control and Speed Limiter, Speed Limit Recognition and Recommendation, and Driver Attention Alert. For ease and convenience, all Feel models also come as standard with rear parking sensors.
Flair XTR
To ensure it stands out on the road, the top-of-the-range Flair XTR model comes with 17-inch ‘Spin’ alloy wheels, XTR badging, black roof bars and door mirrors, orange fog light surrounds, and orange flourishes on the Airbump® panels.
Inside, the Flair XTR trim comes with a Resada Green interior ambiance and Line Green Fabric, as well as a 10-inch fully digital driver display and Citroën Connect Nav that features real time traffic updates and connected services. The Citroën Connect Box with Emergency & Assistance system puts drivers in touch with a trained advisor in the event of an accident or a breakdown.
The Flair XTR version also adds a head-up display and a 180° colour reversing camera for easier manoeuvring.
ONLINE ORDERING
New ë-Berlingo can be ordered online in the UK via the brand’s new Citroën Store, with all retail purchases on the platform benefiting from a five-year/100,000 mile warranty for added peace-of-mind. The Citroën Store allows customers to configure their vehicle, select the finance package that best suits them, agree a part-exchange valuation and order their new ë-Berlingo from the comfort of their own home.
The 50kWh battery in new ë-Berlingo has an eight-year/100,000 mile warranty.
NEW Ë-BERLINGO PRICING
Prices for the new ë-Berlingo start from £29,575 after the current Plug-in Car Grant is applied.
24x 3-Litre Bentleys gather at Brooklands to celebrate, 100 years after 16 May 1921
Victorious car – EXP2, the second Bentley built by W.O. Bentley himself and oldest Bentley in the world – makes headline appearance
100 years to the day since the first race win for a Bentley, the winning car itself – known as EXP2 – returned to the famous Brooklands Racetrack in Surrey yesterday to lead a cavalcade of 3-Litre Bentleys to celebrate the centenary of its victory.
EXP2 is the oldest Bentley in the world, and only the second car ever built by W.O. Bentley’s fledgling company in 1921. EXP2 led a field of 24 3-Litres from across the country, which formed up on the remaining section of the banked Brooklands circuit where Bentley took its first win on 16 May 1921. On that day, the car took victory in the Whitsun Junior Sprint Handicap at the hands of ‘works’ driver Frank Clement, starting a series of race wins for the 3-Litre model that culminated in two victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans – Bentley’s first in 1924, driven by Clement and John Duff, and again in 1927. Between those successes, in 1925 Duff also used a 3-Litre to secure a total of 21 world records over the course of 24 hours.
These early victories for the 3-Litre engrained motorsport in the foundations of Bentley, and paved for the way for more than 1,600 3-Litre models to be produced and sold.
The collection of 3-Litres and the event itself was organised by the Bentley Drivers’ Club, whose chairman Richard Parkinson comments:
“Motorsport success is a huge part of Bentley’s heritage, as it is for the Bentley Drivers Club. We were therefore determined to mark the centenary of the first Bentley racing win on 16 May 1921 at Brooklands on the very same date this year with the actual car, EXP2 itself, kindly provided by Bentley Motors.
“We will continue as a Club to celebrate ‘100 years of Bentley Racing Success’ at our Annual Silverstone Meeting on 7 August which I am delighted to say Bentley Motors is supporting with a display of significant cars from the Heritage Collection.”
EXP2 – The Oldest Bentley in the World After founding his company in 1919, it took two years for W.O. Bentley to develop the engine and chassis of his first production model – the 3-Litre, a car that he went on to produce 1,622 examples of between 1921 and 1929. Crucial to that development programme were the Experimentals – or EXPs for short. EXP1 came first, and was the very first car to wear the Bentley badge. EXP2 was next, and while EXP1 was lost to history (and may well have been cannibalised to create the other EXPs), EXP2 has survived for a century as the oldest Bentley in existence.
EXP2 was originally constructed with a plain two-seat body, to serve its function as a development testbed for the engine – incredibly advanced for its time – and chassis. It was later rebodied with dark red bodywork and an aluminium bonnet, crafted by coachbuilders JH Easter of Chagford Street.
It’s first race was only nine days before its first win. At the hands of Frank Clement, it competed at Brooklands on Saturday 7 May 1921 but failed to finish. Whatever gremlins had disturbed that first race were banished by the following weekend, and when the car took to the track again on Monday 16 it came home victorious for the first time.
EXP2 carried on with its split career of development testing and racing for two years, before being sold in September 1923. The car was completely rebuilt to its original specification around 25 years ago, and is now one of the most important members of the Bentley Heritage Collection.
Package provides two services, two MOT tests and two years of Roadside Assistance, for multi-dimensional customer support
Two-year warranty gives convenience and peace of mind to owners of models aged 36 and 72 months
Eye-catching value and extra reassurance of All-in combines with Volkswagen’s already industry-leading Approved Used offering
Volkswagen is proud to today launch All-in – a value and convenience-focused comprehensive aftercare plan, designed to provide even greater support for Volkswagen customers with cars aged between 36 and 72 months.
The package includes the customer’s next two services, two years’ roadside assistance, two MOTs and two years of warranty cover, thereby providing support, dependability and peace of mind through a multi-dimensional aftercare plan designed to save customers both time and money.
All-in from Volkswagen – the first programme of its type offered by a manufacturer in the UK – combines a menu of services, bundled into one package and paid for either by monthly instalments of £33.45 or a one-off payment of £802.80. Starting with a free eligibility check by a technician, the offering comprises one major and one minor service (including a full inspection), two annual MOT tests (excluding re-testing and any remedial work), year-round roadside assistance, and a two-year warranty. The roadside assistance is effective in the UK and Europe, and covers drivers for, if required, repatriation, alternative travel, and hotel accommodation for both the driver and up to seven passengers.
This innovative package takes away the need to plan ahead for the main future servicing costs, and enables customers to budget carefully across monthly payments. Peace of mind comes from Volkswagen’s trained technicians, using only Volkswagen genuine parts and diagnostic equipment, as well as the knowledge that the vehicle is covered under the All-in warranty. Compared with pay-as-you-go pricing for the All-in items separately, the programme provides considerable value, with the average customer saving for All-in projected to be £833 across the two-year period. Further bolstering the convenience offered is the facility to book services and MOTs into just one visit to the Retailer.
All-in represents the biggest single aftersales investment in the history of Volkswagen UK to date, at a time when the brand is focusing even more on its aftersales and Approved Used areas. The vehicle pool in the UK eligible for All-in is conservatively estimated at considerably more than half a million vehicles, meaning that a huge number of motorists driving three-to-six-year-old Volkswagens could theoretically benefit from this industry-leading roster of support.
All-in from Volkswagen is provided in conjunction with Volkswagen Financial Services, and is priced at £33.45 per month over 24 months – which, when broken down into a daily cost, is roughly the same as a daily takeaway coffee. The programme can also be paid upfront for a one-off payment of £802.80. Vehicles aged between 36 and 72 months are eligible, meaning that the support could be effective until the car is up to eight years old, depending on its age when the policy takes effect. The only exemptions to the programme currently are electric vehicles, cars that have covered over 100,000 miles, and vehicles with engines of more than 2.0 litres in capacity. All-in launches today (17 May) for Volkswagen Passenger Cars, and will be offered at later dates by other Volkswagen Group UK brands.
All-in represents a facet of Volkswagen’s 360-degree support for used cars, following the 2020 launch of Volkswagen Approved Used. Following on from Das WeltAuto, the scheme underwent a transformation in both its branding and its package of benefits – now providing two years of warranty cover, two years’ MOT, and two years’ roadside assistance to complement every Volkswagen Approved Used car sale. To this package two years of free servicing is added to any Approved Used vehicle when purchased using a Volkswagen Financial Services (VWFS) Solutions Personal Contract Plan.
Andrew Savvas, Director of Volkswagen UK, said: “Until All-in from Volkswagen, this kind of comprehensive support was not offered by a manufacturer. At Volkswagen, we’re incredibly proud of our cars, whether they’re brand new and showroom-fresh or well used and loved, and believe that all of our customers deserve the best support, even if their car is a few years old. The peace of mind and value for money that this innovative programme provides is sure to make the lives of our customers easier, thanks to the many benefits that All-in provides.
“The programme, and the investment behind it, proves our commitment to providing an industry-leading package for owners of used Volkswagens. A customer isn’t just a customer until they leave the showroom, or even for a year or two after that – our support is ongoing and comprehensive, and reflects the belief we have in our cars, long after they are delivered to the first owner.”
1] Estimate based on SMMT sales figures May 2015 – April 2018
At the end of its series development process, the new edition of the sports car in the premium compact segment completes its driving dynamics tuning and testing run. Production starts in late summer 2021.
The new BMW 2 Series Coupé is on the final stretch as it heads to the front row of the grid.
The final phase of the series development process for the new edition of the BMW 2 Series Coupé has begun with the dynamic testing and tuning of its drive and suspension systems under racetrack conditions. The two-door compact sports car features numerous hallmark ingredients that are unique in the premium compact segment for achieving a sporty and emotional driving experience, which are carefully coordinated during the test drives.
This is what underpins this car’s claim to taking pole position in its class. The unique selling points of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé in the competitive environment include the rear-wheel drive setup, an extremely powerful in-line 6-cylinder engine, the almost 50:50 balanced axle load distribution, an extremely torsionally stiff body and chassis technology consistently designed for agile and dynamic driving behaviour.
Sporty driving pleasure in the tradition of the BMW 2002. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé, which will be manufactured from late summer 2021, is designed for uncompromising sporty driving pleasure. It continues the tradition of the brand’s particularly driver-oriented, compact and powerful two-door models, which have been built since the legendary BMW 2002. In terms of power delivery, traction, cornering dynamics and handling precision, the new BMW 2 Series Coupé meets the needs of particularly discerning customers who are enthusiastic about unadulterated sportiness in a compact premium automobile.
During the development of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé, the test and tuning drives on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife serve as the ultimate test for wheel suspension, chassis, damping, steering and braking system. In addition, testing on public country roads around Munich and at the BMW Group test site in Maisach ensure that the dynamic driving qualities of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé can also be experienced in everyday traffic and under different road conditions. By extensively testing all drive and chassis systems, the development and test engineers ensure that the engine’s performance characteristics go hand in hand with precisely controllable handling in every situation, fascinating cornering dynamics, optimised traction in all weather and road conditions and perfectly balanced ride comfort. At the same time, the car is fine-tuned to optimise self-steering behaviour and the dynamics when building up lateral acceleration forces. The power transmission to the rear wheels, which is unique in the segment of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé, is ideally suited to sporty, ambitious cornering including easily controllable drift manoeuvres.
BMW M version at the top of the model range. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé’s focus on maximum driving dynamics in the segment is embodied particularly by the BMW M version at the top of the model range. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupé top model (fuel consumption combined: 34.45 mpg, combined CO2 emissions: 186 g/km; provisional value according to WLTP) draws its drive torque from an extremely powerful in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The drive, which is as spontaneously responsive as it is powerfully thrusty, generates a maximum output of 374 hp and is combined with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.
The BMW M model puts its power to the road using the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system. The system’s rear-wheel oriented design ensures hallmark BMW driving pleasure in conjunction with a power distribution that adapts perfectly to adverse road and weather conditions.
The driving dynamics tests also conducted on the Nürburgring, are ideally suited for refining the interaction of the all-wheel-drive system with the M sports differential in the rear-axle transmission. With a fully variable locking effect generated by an electric motor, the differential aids the new BMW 2 Series Coupé in optimising cornering performance with regard to traction and driving stability. The targeted distribution of power between the rear wheels enables significantly higher lateral acceleration and also a noticeable increase in dynamics when accelerating as you come out of bends.
Vehicle concept designed for driving dynamics. Regardless of the engine, all model variants of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé benefit from a particularly torsion-resistant body structure. Static torsional stiffness has been increased by around 12 per cent compared to the predecessor model, for example through the use of dynamic driving struts in the rear of the vehicle, which contribute to the exceptionally high agility of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé. In addition, the vehicle concept, which is consistently designed for driving dynamics, offers significantly increased track width at the front and rear axles. This effectively reduces body roll and wheel load fluctuations during sporty cornering.
All model variants of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé are also equipped with stroke-dependent dampers as standard, the fine-tuning of which leads to a noticeably optimised balance between sportiness and ride comfort. They respond sensitively to slight road unevenness and compensate vibrations to optimise comfort.
When driving over large bumps, the movements of the body are controlled by correspondingly higher damper forces. An Adaptive M Chassis is offered as an option for the new BMW 2 Series Coupé. Its electronically controlled dampers offer the option of activating the appropriate mapping for both sporty and comfort-oriented driving.
Precise steering, optimised aerodynamic properties. The new BMW 2 Series Coupé is characterised by effortlessly controllable handling even in highly dynamic driving situations. In addition to the powerful and highly controllable brakes, the precise steering also characterises the handling of the two-door model. In addition to the balanced axle load distribution between the front and rear wheels, the model-specific design of the steering and the particularly high connection stiffness of the support bearings on the front axle contribute to this. Available as an option for the new BMW 2 Series Coupé, Variable Sports Steering combines further optimised precision when steering into bends with reduced steering effort when parking and manoeuvring.
The body design of the new BMW 2 Series Coupé not only reflects the brand’s modern, clear and reduced design language. Only visible at second glance, but immediately noticeable during the high-speed test drives at the Nürburgring, the measures that help optimise the aerodynamic properties of the BMW M car in particular. In addition to a model-specific front spoiler lip, front splitter and air curtains, air deflectors, a tank and a rear axle cover as well as the contours of the air-flow-optimised driving dynamics struts on the underbody ensure that lift on the front axle has been reduced by 50 percent compared to the predecessor model.
The first Retro Rides Weekender since lockdown will be held at Goodwood Motor Circuit over the May Bank Holiday weekend (29th-30th May)
Unique paddock displays featuring restomods, rally cars, drift cars and everything in between, as well as retail trade stands
Specially curated display paddocks or ‘temporary museums’ showcase cars from the 80s, stock vs custom, retro supercars and new builds for 2021
It’s not just the static event for visitors to enjoy but also sprints and Auto Solo opportunities across the weekend on the famous track
Camping is sold out, while general tickets for Retro Rides Weekender can be found here, press accreditation available via weekender@retro-rides.org
17th May 2021, Goodwood
Retro Rides is gearing up for the first Retro Rides Weekender since the easing of the UK lockdown, which will be held over the 29th and 30th May at Goodwood Motor Circuit in Chichester.
Featuring a whole host of iconic machinery across the two-day event, available as static displays and non-stop track action, the Retro Rides team has tickets for both days available.
The first automotive event of its type since restrictions have been eased, Retro Rides is preparing for a packed Weekender event at the end of this month. One of the principles behind the Retro Rides Weekender is to bring together a unique and diverse selection of cars spanning various decades, makes and models, to create ‘temporary museums’ all at one event. With the likes of beautifully maintained classics, cool and quirky drift cars, bonkers rally cars and stunning you’d-never-believe-it-wasn’t-the-real-thing restomods.
Each year Retro Rides transforms the paddocks at Goodwood with different themes, and this year is no different. The main theme for 2021 is Deadline, as in garages across the land, midnight oil is being burned to get cars ready to show for the first time. Stock vs. Custom, the ultimate battle between modified cars and meticulously maintained stock cars, with the aim to find a matching set and display them beside each other. Acceptable in the 80s will feature quintessential cars from the decade. Think Audi Quattro, BMW M3 and the DeLorean DMC-12. For those with a need for speed, the Supercar Paddock is a celebration of retro super car wedges from the Seventies through to the start of the hypercar era in the early Noughties.
However, it’s not just the static events in store for guests, there’s also a range of optional track action available too. On Saturday 29th May the lucky track ticket holders will be able to open up their cars on the historic circuit in the morning and afternoon. Sunday 30th May the agenda shifts to the auto-solo agility course: a test of skill and guaranteed fun for drivers and spectators alike. Throughout the Weekender there’ll also be an opportunity for all guests to get up close and personal with suppliers they love with a number of brands taking up trade stands.
“We’re thrilled to be back at the historic Goodwood circuit. It’s been a challenging and tumultuous time over the last year, but we couldn’t be more pleased to be able to return to shows across the UK, said David Murphy, Head of Events for Retro Rides.
“As a team, we’re building on the success of our previous events by bringing together the best of the UK retro scene along with hot rods, race cars, restomods and all the huge diversity of machines that make up the Retro Rides world. It’s exciting to be able to have track action on both days again this year, along with the central display paddocks, specially curated displays and visitor’s cars across the site.”
Due to COVID-19 restrictions and for everyone’s safety, capacity for each day has been limited to 3,500 guests, with all outdoor safety measures in compliance with government guidelines. General tickets to the event can be found here, with press accreditation available weekender@retro-rides.org.
