Most powerful production Volkswagen yet with 462 PS and 700 Nm
3.0-litre TSI eHybrid achieves 94.2 mpg and 67 g/km (WLTP combined)
Flagship SUV offers enormous technology and equipment specification
The Volkswagen Touareg R is the first fully-fledged production R model to be launched with an electrified powertrain.
Capable of both impressive performance as well as ultra-low emissions, the Touareg R features a petrol plug-in hybrid system producing 462 PS and 700 Nm of torque. The model, which starts at £71,995 RRP OTR, is available to order now for UK customers.
The Touareg R boasts a multitude of talents, with performance worthy of the R badge sitting alongside impressive frugality. The high-performance SUV has 462 PS and 700 Nm of torque available. This impressive output makes the Touareg R the most powerful production Volkswagen to date. Its 0 to 62 mph sprint time of 5.1 seconds accelerates the Touareg R into the territory of the brand’s other R models, and is within half a second of the Golf R’s 4.7-second figure. Like the aforementioned Volkswagen performance champion, the Touareg R’s top speed is limited to 155 mph (where permitted). A maximum of 70% of the car’s torque can be transferred to the front wheels, and up to 80% to the rear axle, via a centre differential lock with asymmetric torque distribution (Torsen) acting as a transfer box.
At the heart of the Touareg R is a sophisticated 3.0-litre V6 TSI eHybrid plug-in powertrain. Not only is it powerful, but it is also smooth and refined and, moreover, is frugal enough to make the R the most running-cost-friendly model in the Touareg range, with fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 94.2 mpg and 67 g/km (WLTP combined cycle) respectively. A 28-mile electric-only range accessible in the Touareg R’s E-MODE adds to the model’s low-CO2 credentials, with the 14.3 kWh (net) battery reducing running costs for this versatile performance SUV.
The Touareg R is not only a performance stand-out in the Volkswagen range, but is also comprehensively laden with features, with numerous innovations combining to represent considerable value against competitors, as well as an equipment list that marks the newcomer out as a technological tour-de-force.
The new R bolsters the already generous equipment offering provided by the standard Touareg range, and adds a number of extra luxuries as standard, with black ‘Puglia’ leather-upholstered, diamond-quilted ergoComfort seats finished with contrasting blue stitching and piping, and active climate (heating and ventilation) function for front occupants. The R also benefits from a unique heated leather sports steering wheel with R logo and DSG shift paddles, 30-colour interior ambient lighting, and a keyless locking and starting system. The interior is further stylised with illuminated, R-branded scuff plates, diamond-quilted leather panels in the door cards, and blue highlights on the carpet mats.
The standard equipment list builds upon that of the Touareg Black Edition, which means the Touareg R also features an air suspension system with automatic self-levelling function, height adjustment and electronic shock absorption control. A Park Assist package with 360-degree Area View camera adds to the convenience offered, while the intelligent IQ. Light LED matrix headlights – first introduced on the Touareg in 2018 but now offered on multiple models including the Golf – use information from the car’s front camera, navigation data and GPS information, steering angle and speed of travel to optimise lighting for numerous driving situations. The system also incorporates LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights with dynamic turn signal, and Dynamic Light Assist high-beam control. Like the Black Edition, the Touareg R also counts a panoramic sunroof among its vast list of standard-fit equipment.
This luxurious specification also features items from across the generously-equipped Touareg range, with dynamic road sign display, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist as standard . Meanwhile, tinted glass, six interior USB ports (four front, two rear) and 4-zone electronic air conditioning are all included on R-Line models and above. The Touareg’s acclaimed Innovision Cockpit, which incorporates a 15-inch central infotainment screen and 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit display, is factory-fit from R-Line Tech models upwards.
In addition to all the aforementioned kit, the Touareg R, as part of the R stable of models, boasts exclusive styling with specifically designed front and rear bumpers, a gloss black rear diffuser, and 22-inch ‘Estoril’ diamond-turned wheels shod in 285/35 R22 tyres. R badging within the front grille, on the wings, and in the centre of the tailgate further designate the Touareg R as the performance-oriented flagship in the luxury SUV range, while darkened tail lights and a black grille, mirror caps and window trim add further visual impact. A mode 3, 32 A / 7.2 kW charging cable is also included to top up the battery from public charge points. Charging an empty battery in this way will take two and a half hours, while using a household three-pin socket will take eight and a half hours.
Options for those who wish to further bolster the equipment list of the Touareg R include the Driver Assistance Pack Plus, which in addition to Emergency Assist, Front Cross Traffic Assist, Predictive Pedestrian Protection, Side Scan and proactive occupant protection systems, brings Travel Assist – a camera and sensor-controlled system with the capacity to steer, brake and accelerate, providing Level 2 driving automation at speeds of up to 155 mph (where permitted). A Head-up Display can bring further innovation and convenience to the Touareg R’s technology-loaded interior, and a Night Vision system can also help drivers to see hazards in the dark that they might not have spotted with the naked eye. Those wishing to take advantage of the Tourareg R’s 3.5 tonne towing capacity can opt for a power-folding tow bar installed with the Trailer Assist system.
The Touareg R follows the introduction of the new Golf R in December and the Tiguan R in February, but precedes the Arteon R, details of which will be released in due course. The Touareg R follows the V10 diesel-engined R50 of 2008 in the model’s R history, and joins the T-Roc R and Tiguan R in the Volkswagen R SUV family of 2021.
Sarah Cox, Head of Marketing at Volkswagen UK, said: “The Touareg is yet another example of Volkswagen’s multi-talented range of SUVs. The model is practical, versatile, capable, comfortable and luxurious, and now it has a performance-oriented R variant that’s not only fast and fun to drive, but also capable of ultra-low emissions in everyday situations. In fact – as a latest-generation plug-in hybrid – its battery capacity allows enough electric-only range to cover the entire daily commute for many drivers.
“The Touareg R represents Volkswagen versatility at its finest – possessing numerous class-leading qualities, an incredible amount of standard equipment, and all the luxuries customers could wish for.”
The Spring Live Online Sale will showcase a significant number of examples, all of which will be offered on Friday 26th March 2021.
The catalogue is shaping up magnificently with several unrepeatable super examples, each with their own unique history. Classic Car Auctions will close their catalogue on Monday 15th March 2021.
This remarkable little 2000 Rover MINI Cooper Sport has covered just 117 miles from new! With just one former registered keeper, it has been with the vendor for the last 12 years and it has been dry stored all its life. The beautifully presented Mini is complete with all its manuals, logbook and both sets of keys as well as fresh fluids – a truly amazing find for Classic Car Auctions first sale of 2021.
Continuing with the great line up of cars going under the hammer this month is 1992 Peugeot 205 GTI. A simply stunning example of the classic 90s ‘Hot’ Hatch with celebrity provenance. This desirable Miami Blue GTI has appeared on Top Gear and was driven by ‘The Stig’ (Ben Collins) as well as also being featured in various magazines and appearing on Clarkson’s Car Years on BBC 2 in 2000.
Gary Dunne, CCA’s Sales Manager commented ““The standard of cars in this sale is exceptional once again. We are looking forward to bringing another superb catalogue of cars to the market as it closes on Monday 15th March. We are currently inviting our last entries to the sale – so don’t miss your chance to enter your car alongside this fantastic lot list!”
Confirmed for the sale is also this unique 1958 Land Rover Series 2 Station Wagon. This striking example has been retained by Land Rover themselves and is accompanied by a large history file, Heritage Certificate, original S2 owner’s manual (July 58, part no. 4215) and original promotional material. Classic Car Auctions understands the Chassis 002 is the oldest production Series 2 in existence and the Land Rover still retains its original prototype engine and its original Birmingham registration number ‘YOG 306’.
Another lovely example presented in The Spring Live Online Auction is this low mileage 1986 Morgan 4/4 1600 . This rare and practical four-seater bodied, 4/4 1600 is powered by Ford’s ubiquitous 1597cc CVH with a five-speed gearbox. This car is beautifully presented in Claret Red Metallic with Black leather and Tiger Wood veneers and has been previously owned for 10 years with a current mileage of 32,162.
Classic Car Auctions are now preparing for their first online auction of the year with their catalogue closing in under a weeks’ time! To talk to classic car specialist about your car, contact the team on 01926 640888 or complete their Value My Classic form here.
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’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.
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:
Colour
Finish
Colour
Finish
Misty Jungle (new)
Pearl
Dive in Jeju (new)
Solid
Surfy Blue (new)
Metallic
Galactic Grey
Metallic
Ingnite Flame (new)
Special Solid
Dark Knight
Pearl
Cyber Grey (new)
Metallic
Pulse Red
Pearl
Atlas White (new)
Special Solid
Phantom Black
Pearl
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.
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
*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 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.
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.
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:
Unfurling of maps and arguments between parents over directions (54%)
One CD or tape in the car that you had to listen to every single time you went on a drive (53%)
Pre-planning routes (39%)
Using a coat hanger as a radio aerial (39%)
Using the cigarette lighter for its original intended purpose (35%)
Endless tuning to get a radio signal (34%)
Classic ‘in car’ games such as ‘I Spy’ (34%)
Picking up hitchhikers (30%)
The rallying cry of ’are we there yet’ (24%)
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
Women in music and film: Jaguar continues to support creative industries
Creative collaboration: Brand works with DJ/producer Hannah Wants and actor Christina Chong to launch the new Jaguar E-PACE on TV
Soundtrack: New track Lift Off has been adapted exclusively for the campaign after featuring on BBC Radio 1 Dance Party with Annie Mac (UK only) and Spotifyplaylists
New inside and out: New E-PACE has enhanced interior and exterior, advanced connectivity and is available with efficient plug-in-hybrid and mild-hybrid electrification
Available to order: Jaguar E-PACE is priced from £32,575. Click here to see Christina and hear Hannah in the new Jaguar E-PACE TV advert
Jaguar has collaborated with electronic dance music DJ/producer Hannah Wants and actor Christina Chong to celebrate the new Jaguar E-PACE SUV.
British/Chinese actor Chong is filmed driving the E-PACE in London, soundtracked by Wants’ new single Lift Off. The new TV advert, Striking From Every Angle, is the latest instalment of Jaguar Creators, a series of collaborations with talented creative artists.
The musical accompaniment is provided British DJ and producer Hannah Wants, a former professional footballer, whose new single with Nathan Nicholson, Lift Off, has been adapted exclusively for the campaign. Wants’ latest track has already featured in the top ten of Spotify’s UK House Music playlist and the Electronic Rising playlist top five.
Hannah Wants said: “Jaguar Land Rover is close to my heart as my dad was an engineer there for more than 30 years. To be approached by the brand to work with them on their new E-PACE campaign is a great achievement and I feel honoured they have chosen Lift Off.”
Her work on the new E-PACE campaign is Jaguar’s second foray into dance music, following a collaboration with American DJ/producer MK to launch the new F-PACE SUV earlier this year. Jaguar is committed to supporting the creative industries and emerging talent.
Christina Chong said: “As an actor, I try to create emotions that connect with people. Learning your lines and losing yourself in a part gets intense – you have to be vulnerable. So I like to escape by getting behind the wheel with my music. The Jaguar E-PACE is a place where I get to be me again.”
The new E-PACE compact performance SUV is available with both plug-in-hybrid and mild-hybrid electric powertrains. Its upgraded interior features Jaguar’s intuitive new Pivi Pro infotainment, with Software-Over-The-Air capability ensuring both infotainment and vehicle system updates are installed seamlessly and remotely. Optional cabin air ionisation with PM2.5 filtration captures ultrafine particles and allergens for enhanced occupant wellbeing.
Andy Hunt Cooke, Jaguar Global Communications, said: “Our new global strategy, called Reimagine, sets out Jaguar’s future as a pure electric luxury brand with a dramatically beautiful portfolio of emotionally engaging designs and pioneering next-generation technologies.
“Today the new E-PACE showcases its unique design, hybrid powertrains and cutting-edge infotainment. We’re thrilled to celebrate it with such creative women as Hannah and Christina, who embody the fearless creativity that sets Jaguar apart.”
The new E-PACE which has a choice of eight powerful and efficient engines, including the P300e Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) powertrain, which combines a 200PS 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine and a 109PS (80kW) Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) motor, providing the ability to drive up to 34 miles (55km) in zero emissions EV mode – perfect for daily drives in the city.
To view/download films featuring Christina Chong in the New Jaguar E-PACE, click here: f.io/3977j5Wy
First look at all-new KONA N reveals a powerful stance and high-performance design elements
The ‘hot SUV’ will combine the driving fun of a Hyundai N model with the comfort and convenience of an SUV
All-new KONA N features the modern design of the new KONA with the bold and dynamic language of the company’s N division
Hyundai Motor has revealed a glimpse of the all-new KONA N without its camouflage disguise.
In a series of teaser images, fans and enthusiasts can enjoy a first look at the latest member of the brand’s high-performance N range.
The all-new KONA N will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N brand line-up, and the first N model with an SUV body type.
As the first images reveal, the ‘hot SUV’ boasts a sporty appearance, further emphasised by its wide, low stance. For the very first time, the Hyundai N division and Hyundai Design Centre worked together to develop an SUV body type, creating a product that clearly represents a powerful presence and driving fun. The all-new KONA N combines the modern design of the recently launched new KONA with the bold and dynamic language of the company’s N models.
The front view is dominated by large, sporty and iconic air intakes, and the new light signature gives Hyundai’s latest high-performance model an aggressive, powerful appearance. The lower grille defines the character of the bumper fascia: its shape is inspired by an aeronautic fuselage and extends to the side of the car, emphasising its aerodynamic efficiency and speed. An N logo on the unique upper grille completes the look.
At the rear, a large double-wing roof spoiler for enhanced downforce gives spice to the rear view. It also incorporates a third, triangular brake light, as is customary with N models. Large N dual exhaust mufflers fully express the model’s high-performance spirit. Lower down on the rear bumper, a large diffuser enhances the airflow departure. The sporty appearance is further emphasised through body-coloured fenders, bringing KONA N visually closer to the ground.
The all-new KONA N is equipped with the eye-catching features reserved for N models, such as exclusive alloy wheels and red accents that embellish the side sills.
The all-new KONA N will be the latest addition to the Hyundai N family, Hyundai’s high-performance, motorsport-inspired line-up. It will also expand the successful Hyundai SUV family in Europe.
