ASTON MARTIN ACCELERATES TOWARDS GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

ASTON MARTIN ACCELERATES TOWARDS GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

70 years since Aston Martin first raced at the Goodwood Motor Circuit, the luxury British manufacturer returns to Goodwood Festival of Speed as this year’s featured marque. There have been many significant moments in Aston Martin’s long-standing relationship with Goodwood and this year will be no different with Aston Martin showcasing its bold new future and highlights from its past. 

Included in this year’s event will be the global dynamic debut of the DBS Superleggera Volante and the limited edition, Vantage AMR. Unveiled earlier this year, Aston Martin has introduced a 7-speed manual transmission to its true sports car, Vantage. Also featuring dynamic tweaks inspired by motorsport, Vantage AMR delivers a heightened driving experience while commemorating Aston Martin’s 1-2 win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a limited edition ‘Vantage 59’ livery.

There will also be an opportunity to see the Rapide E dynamically for the first time in the UK with the high-performance battery electric sportscar driving up the hill from the First Glance paddock. The first electric Aston Martin, driven at Festival of Speed by Aston Martin Racing works driver Darren Turner, is powered by an 800V electrical architecture battery with a 65kWh installed capacity. The battery system powers two rear-mounted electric motors that produce a combined target output of just over 610PS and a colossal 950Nm of torque.

Festival of Speed will also be the first time that Aston Martin’s first SUV, DBX, will be heard as it runs up the hill from the First Glance paddock. Due to be unveiled at the end of 2019, the camouflaged pre-production will be driven by Aston Martin’s Chief Engineer, Matt Becker, who will put the SUV through its paces as it nears its global launch date.

Included in the Supercar Paddock will be the Lava Collection which features each of the four Vanquish Zagatos in the now iconic paint colour, Lava Red. Between the four V12 engines there is almost 2,400bhp with only 99 Volantes, Coupes and Shooting Brakes built – only 28 Speedsters were made. The project was announced in 2016 with the final car in the series, Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake delivered to customers this year. The four models will be joined by the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation which will be on display in Aston Martin hospitality, adding to the celebration of 100 years of Zagato. Aston Martin Vulcan AMR Pro will also be running, and the current World Endurance Racing Vantage GTE will also be driven up the hill by Aston Martin Racing works driver Jonny Adam who has just returned from competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Other nods to Aston Martin’s rich history will be made with attendance from great racing cars from pasts successes at Brooklands, Circuit de la Sarthe and Silverstone. Each car will feature in the Aston Martin moment which will occur each day of the Festival of Speed honouring 106-years of racing history.

Aston Martin President and Group CEO, Andy Palmer, said: “We are a business that is currently experiencing a momentous period of growth. Attending the Festival of Speed allows us to showcase our latest developments in electric and SUV technology while celebrating the rich history of our past.

“Aston Martin is proud to have been involved in the Festival of Speed since it began in 1993. It’s a nerve-wracking experience every time I drive up the hill in front of the crowds, the margin for error is tiny, but there is such an extraordinary atmosphere that it is like no other motor show on earth. It’s this excitement that keeps both participants and visitors returning year after year.”

For more information on the attractions at the Goodwood Festival of Speed please visit https://www.goodwood.com/motorsport/festival-of-speed/.

THE LISTER MOTOR COMPANY LAUNCHES KNOBBLY CONTINUATION FILM, FEATURING A VERY SPECIAL CAR

THE LISTER MOTOR COMPANY LAUNCHES KNOBBLY CONTINUATION FILM, FEATURING A VERY SPECIAL CAR

The Lister Motor Company, manufacturers of the LFT-666, LFP, LFT-C and a range of continuation models, has produced a film showing the road-legal Lister Knobbly continuation being constructed, and driven, at the Lister factory in Cambridgeshire.

All Knobbly continuation models are built to the very same specification as the original 1958 Knobbly racers, using the late Brian Lister’s original drawings and manufacturing jigs, but the car featured in this film has a very interesting story behind it.

The Lister Motor Company was acquired by the Whittaker family in 2013, a purchase that came about thanks to Andrew Whittaker buying the Lister Knobbly you see in the film, registration number 324 JTD.

The Whittaker family has a passion for cars, and it was long an ambition of Andrew to own an original Lister Knobbly. When a suitable car was offered for sale in 2011 a deal was struck, but the Knobbly he purchased was far from complete, in fact what Whittaker now owned was barely more than a Knobbly body and a few boxes of parts.

On the hunt for the items needed to complete the car, a call was made to Brian Lister Engineering in Cambridgeshire to enquire if they could assist with some hard to find Knobbly mechanicals.

As result of that call, Andrew and Lawrence Whittaker received an invite to visit the factory to view a number of spare parts which resided in an old wooden container, untouched since Lister cars stopped being manufactured in Cambridge many years previously.

Not only did that container yield some much-needed parts, it also contained some incredible Lister history, including technical drawings, blueprints, photos and styling bucks…in fact, all that was needed to create Lister Knobbly and Costin models. It was then that the Whittaker’s realised that Lister could be reborn.

Following that chance visit to Cambridge, and the arduous collection of meetings, exploration due diligence and negotiations that followed, in 2013 the Whittaker family finally became owners of five limited companies that now sit correctly under the group company, The Lister Motor Company Limited.

Long before the LFT-666 supercar was launched, the first Whittaker Lister was the Knobbly Continuation, built at the Cambridge factory by the same team who had built the Knobbly under Brian Lister, coaxed out of retirement by Andrew & Lawrence Whittaker, who helped a new, younger Lister team.

It was 324 JTD that was used to develop the continuation cars, providing a rolling chassis to ensure the drawings and blueprints were accurate and as a prototype to evaluate on the road. That car has long since been completed, and features in the film launched today.

All Lister Knobbly Continuation cars can be built to FIA specification and still be road legal, making them one of a small number of new cars you can drive to the circuit, race and drive home again. Despite following an original design laid out more than 60 years ago, the reborn Knobbly can accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds and hit a top speed of 181mph.

A new Lister Knobbly Continuation can still be purchased today, priced at £315,000.

Lister Motor Company owner Lawrence Whittaker said: “Every Lister Knobbly is special, be it an original or a factory approved continuation, but 324 JTD will always be regarded as the car that reignited Lister. This car and the subsequent search for parts led to car building restarting in Cambridge, the launch of the LFT-666, LFP and LFT-C and the opening of a new £5m Lister Headquarters in Blackburn.”

“This film captures the evocative nature of the Knobbly and showcases the Cambridgeshire factory and the glorious surroundings in which it is based. It’s a special film, featuring a special car, and we hope you enjoy watching it.”

The film can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hefaivuvUAE&feature=youtu.be

Photo Credit: Robert Cooper

BEAULIEU IS THE HOME OF MOTORING FOR NEW CAR SERIES FILMING

BEAULIEU IS THE HOME OF MOTORING FOR NEW CAR SERIES FILMING

The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is the perfect backdrop for new prime-time car show The Car Years which begins broadcasting its first series on Tuesdays from May 7th.

The museum – with its world-famous collection of more than 250 vehicles telling the story of motoring history – was the natural choice for presenters Vicki Butler-Henderson and Alex Riley to go head-to-head with their favourite cars from chosen years. The Montagu ancestral home of Palace House and its stunning grounds and gardens are also featured during the six-episode series.

Starting with an ITV4 double-bill from 8pm, Vicki will pitch the iconic Porsche 911 sports car against Alex with his Ford Mustang original muscle car from 1964. Then for 1984, Vicky chooses the turbo powered Ford RS200 while Alex picks Miami Vice favourite, the Ferrari Testarossa.

Winners of the car battles are picked by judges including former F1 drivers and broadcasters Tiff Needell and Karun Chandhok, motoring writers and presenters Erin Baker and Quentin Willson, former Top Gear Stig and stunt driver Ben Collins, motoring author and vlogger Richard Porter and world-renowned motoring auctioneer Chris Routledge.

Later in the series, the British MGA sports car driven by the likes of Elvis Presley is pitted against the Hollywood favourite Mercedes 190SL from 1955, while the world-beating Audi Quattro is set against Alex’s childhood hero the Renault 5 Turbo from 1980, the Porsche Boxster competes against its sports car rival the Lotus Elise from 1996 and four-seater performance cars the Golf GTi hot hatch and Saab 99 Turbo go head-to-head for 1976.

Beaulieu’s Commercial Director Steve Munn said: “We have been pleased to host The Car Years filming and look forward to working with the production team on future series. As the home of British motoring, Beaulieu is the perfect setting for the new show which celebrates some of the most popular cars in automotive history.”

The Car Years is also a perfect fit for its sponsors, Beaulieu’s partners and classic vehicle insurance specialists Footman James. The show’s celebrities recently appeared at Beaulieu’s media partners’ Practical Classic’s Classic Car & Restoration Show at the NEC.

To see the backdrops used in filming, a ticket to Beaulieu includes entry to the National Motor Museum with its Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 50 years exhibition, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Palace House, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and the grounds and gardens. Tickets can be bought in advance online. For tickets and details see www.beaulieu.co.uk or call 01590 612345.

INVESTINDUSTRIAL ACQUIRES MAJORITY STAKE IN MORGAN MOTOR COMPANY

INVESTINDUSTRIAL ACQUIRES MAJORITY STAKE IN MORGAN MOTOR COMPANY

 Investindustrial has today announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Morgan Motor Company Ltd (“Morgan”), the iconic 110-year old British sports cars manufacturer. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed, and it is expected to complete in April 2019. The Morgan family will continue to act as stewards for the brand and retains a minority shareholding. Meanwhile, for the first time in its history, the management team and all employees will become shareholders in the business. The investment is executed without financial debt, and Morgan will have a positive net cash position upon closing of the transaction. The investment in Morgan is made by a separate fund (with a different strategy) from Investindustrial V L.P. (whose investment subsidiaries hold a stake in Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings PLC).

Founded in 1909, Morgan continues to this day to hand-build premium sports cars with a classic design in its historic factory in Malvern, UK, which is visited by more than 30,000 enthusiasts each year. With revenues of £33.8 million and net profit of £3.2 million in 2018, the company sells around 700 cars per year including a portfolio of iconic car designs and a unique 3 Wheeler manufactured using three core elements: ash, aluminium and leather. The Morgan brand is synonymous of quintessential British craftmanship, elegance, performance and design. Morgan has a loyal and active owners’ community with more than 5,000 members and 50 clubs globally.

As part of the transaction, and as a sign of its long-term faith in the company and the wider British automotive sector, Investindustrial will support Morgan to accelerate new product development, after the launch today of the new Plus Six at the Geneva motor show, the first to adopt the company’s new CX-Generation architecture, increase global distribution and broaden customers’ experience with unique events, enabling Morgan to fulfil its global potential as an iconic maker of hand-built British sports cars. In supporting the company, Investindustrial will leverage its vast experience and track record in the automotive industry, developed through a number of successful investments over the last 30 years, such as Aston Martin and Ducati.

Morgan will continue to focus on its niche classic segment within the automotive sector, with bespoke manufacturing, hand-built products, and the use of ash remaining central to its strategy. Investindustrial will work closely with current management and the wider Morgan family to make sure that future development of the business will be respectful of and remain true to the company’s unique heritage.

Dominic Riley, Chairman, Morgan Motor Company, commented: “The past two years have been the most successful in our company’s 110-year history. However, to really fulfil Morgan’s full potential and secure our long-term future, both the family and management team, felt it was essential to bring in a strategic partner. A partner that shares our vision for Morgan and has the expertise, financial resources and track record of success in the automotive world, to make it happen. That partner is Investindustrial.”

Jill Price, Peter Morgan’s daughter and longest serving Morgan family Director commented: “Having very carefully considered all options for the future success of Morgan, the family concluded that this new ownership structure and Mr Bonomi and Investindustrial, have the pedigree and resources to secure the long-term future of Morgan. It was important for the family to retain a shareholding, and we are delighted that our loyal management team and workforce will now also have a stake in the business."

Andrea C. Bonomi, Chairman of the Industrial Advisory Board, commented: “Morgan is one of the most famous names in the automotive world. Morgan’s handmade British sports cars are true icons of the industry. We have followed the company and seen its progress for some time and see significant potential for Morgan to develop internationally whilst retaining its hand-built heritage, which is at the heart of the Morgan Motor Company.”

Steve Morris, CEO, Morgan Motor Company, commented: “The future is bright for Morgan. We are coming off the back of two record years. We have an all-new vehicle architecture and powertrain, and have just launched the most dynamically capable Morgan yet, the exciting new Plus Six at the Geneva International Motor Show. Now we have the best possible owner and partner to take the business to the next level and develop Morgan’s global potential.”

About Investindustrial

Investindustrial is a leading European group of independently managed investment, holding and advisory companies with €6.8 billion of raised fund capital, which provides industrial solutions and capital to mid-market companies in Europe. Its mission is to actively contribute to the development of the companies in which it invests, by creating growth opportunities and offering global solutions through an entrepreneurial pan-European vision. Investindustrial has a history of more than 28 years of successfully partnering with companies in Europe. Certain companies of the Investindustrial group are authorized by, and subject to regulatory supervision of the FCA in the United Kingdom and the CSSF in Luxembourg. Investindustrial’s investment companies act independently from each other and each Investindustrial fund.

Additional information is available at www.investindustrial.com.

About Morgan Motor Company

Headquartered in Malvern, UK, Morgan Motor Company manufactures hand-build iconic British sports cars, famous the world over for their unique blend of craft, heritage and pure driving experience. The company was established in 1909 by H.F.S. Morgan with the design of the now iconic Morgan Three Wheeler. It currently has 190 employees. Leading design capability, an extensive array of luxurious materials and the latest drive-train technologies combine to create unparalleled pure driving pleasure. Every Morgan is expertly crafted using three core elements: ash, aluminium and leather. Each Morgan is unique, hand-built to the highest standard by passionate craftspeople, who perfect their skill over a lifetime to bring together heritage, innovation and cutting- edge technology.

Additional information is available at www.morgan-motor.co.uk.

RAPID RESPONSE (2ND EDITION) MY INSIDE STORY AS A MOTOR RACING LIFE-SAVER

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RAPID RESPONSE (2ND EDITION) MY INSIDE STORY AS A MOTOR RACING LIFE-SAVER

By Dr Stephen Olvey

Foreword by Alex Zanardi

Afterword Dario Franchitti

Publication date: 25 April 2019

• UK price: £25.00 ● ISBN: 978-1-910505-39-7
• Hardback ● Format: 234x156mm ● Page extent: 312pp
• Illustration: 56 photographs, mainly colour

Originally published to great acclaim in 2006, Dr Stephen Olvey’s memoir Rapid Response makes a long-awaited return to print — complete with new text and a new afterword by Dario Franchitti — at the same time as the release of a documentary feature film of the same title. This book is the compelling story of the author’s often tragic, sometimes funny, and frequently frustrating journey through the volatile world of professional motorsport. Along the way, he introduces the reader to many of the characters — geniuses, good guys, bad guys — that he has encountered during his quest to save lives and make motorsport safer. This book is a captivating read for all motorsport fans.

• Among the racing legends with whom Dr Olvey has worked — and who have their places in this book — are Mario Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi, A.J. Foyt, Graham Hill, Nigel Mansell, Rick Mears, Johnny Rutherford and Al Unser Jr.
• Dr Olvey attended his first race, the 1955 Indianapolis 500, at the impressionable age of 11, and saw his favourite driver, Bill Vukovich, killed in a fiery crash while leading.
• He began working at the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway while attending medical school, making his first professional appearance there in 1966, when his first on-track rescue involved Graham Hill in his ‘rookie’ year.
• Dr Olvey organised the first travelling medical team in motorsport and was eventually joined by long-time colleague and friend Dr Terry Trammell.
• Continuing to work together over several decades, Dr Olvey and Dr Trammell have used their study of the cause and effect of racing crashes and injuries to make significant advances in safety, with many lives saved and serious injuries avoided.
• The writer of the foreword is Alex Zanardi, whose life Dr Olvey helped to save after a violent accident in Germany in 2001, and who subsequently returned not only to motorsport but also to handcycling, becoming a three-time Paralympic gold medallist.

The Author: Dr Stephen Olvey has been involved in saving lives and improving safety in motorsport for nearly 50 years, primarily in his role as Medical Director for the Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) racing series in the US, a position that he held from 1979 to 2003. He remains active in motorsport as a member of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile Medical Commission, a consultant to Indy Car Series and Motor Sports Director of the University of Miami Concussion Program. He is an associate professor of Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine.

MOTOR RACING LEGENDS ANNOUNCES NEW GRIDS AT GALA AWARDS NIGHT

MOTOR RACING LEGENDS ANNOUNCES NEW GRIDS AT GALA AWARDS NIGHT

Last night the UK’s premier classic race organiser Motor Racing Legends (MRL) crowned their 2018 series winners in style at a gala awards dinner at the Royal Automobile Club in Pall Mall.

The evening was hosted by MRL Chairman, Duncan Wiltshire and attended by many leading figures of the British motorsport scene including the CEO of Motorsport UK, Hugh Chambers and Motorsport Vision Chief Jonathan Palmer.

During the evening’s presentation, it was announced that MRL are to take on the organisation of the two grids from the Historic Motor Racing News stable, the U2TC for under two-litre touring cars and the Pre63-GT series. Ownership of these two well-established series will remain with Carol Spagg, who is looking to step back from the day-to-day organisation and administration. Carol, who was a guest at the dinner, commented “Motor Racing Legends is the obvious choice to manage these series on a day to day basis. They run professional and well-respected races at all the right meetings.”

Both the U2TC and Pre-63GT series will join MRL’s already extensive portfolio of historic race grids, which include: The Pre-War Sports Cars Series; the Historic Touring Car Challenge and Tony Dron Trophy for Touring Cars between 1966- 1990; the Stirling Moss Trophy and the Royal Automobile Woodcote Trophy for 50s Sports cars. All six grids will kick off the 2019 season at the forthcoming Donington Historic Festival (3-5 May).

Duncan commented, “I am very excited to be taking over responsibility for these two popular and long-running series. They are a perfect fit alongside our existing races and our team are accustomed to delivering the service that Carol’s drivers will expect. It should be a seamless transition.”

The awards ceremony celebrated all the 2018 trophy winners. Highlights include Chris Ward, and John Young (Lister Knobbly) who lifted the hallowed Stirling Moss Trophy, the same trophy won by Moss for his first ever British Grand Prix win in 1955 at Aintree. John Ure and Nick Wigley raised the Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy for their successful season in the Cooper-Bristol T24/25 and Mark Smith took home the overall Historic Touring Car Challenge award.

It was the super-fast Alvis Firefly of Rudi Friedrichs that took home the overall Pre-War Sports Trophy and The Tony Dron Trophy (The Tricentrol Cup,) as won by Tony Dron himself at the British Saloon Car Championship race at the British Grand Prix in 1977 went to Patrick Watts and Steve Soper for their hard-fought success in Watts’ Group 1 Ford Capri.

Vincent Collard - Spa Six Hour promoter and organiser - was honoured with the Motor Racing Legends Trophy for his services to historic motorsport.

Jack and Roger Stanford were awarded the Traditional Oak Family Spirit Trophy for their season in the BMW M3 and Tony Wood and Will Nuthall took home the Brian Lister Cup.

A list of all the class winners can be found at www.motorracinglegends.com

Entry forms and regulations will be issued early February but if you would like more information about racing at Donington Historic Festival or any of the forthcoming season’s races run by Motor Racing Legends please visit www.motorracinglegends.com or email: Lindsey Warren at lindsey@motorracinglegends.com, or

Gillian Carr at gillian@motorracinglegends.com 

FANTASTIC FIAT 500C IS PRIZE FOR NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM VISITOR

FANTASTIC FIAT 500C IS PRIZE FOR NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM VISITOR

FANTASTIC FIAT 500C IS PRIZE FOR NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM VISITOR

A brand new Fiat 500C TwinAir has been presented to the winner of the National Motor Museum Trust Prize Draw in a ceremony at Beaulieu's Palace House.

Beaulieu Managing Director Russell Bowman handed the keys for the bright red soft-top to Rosalind Cottee and her husband Norman, who were delighted to drive home to Maidenhead from the New Forest in the sought-after top raffle prize. They were joined for the ceremony by Niall James from Snows Fiat and Abarth, which supplied the car.

Rosalind and Norman had visited Beaulieu in the summer with their grandchildren when Rosalind bought her successful raffle ticket in the National Motor Museum. She said: “We had a lovely day, but I really didn’t expect to win anything, let alone the car. I think the only other thing I’ve ever won in a competition was a bowl of fruit, so this is wonderful! We’re both retired so I will be using the Fiat for local trips.” 

Carole McGuire, from Tonbridge in Kent, won the second prize – a money-can’t-buy opportunity to take part in the 2019 London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, as a passenger in one of the National Motor Museum Trust’s historic vehicles, with an overnight stay in London. Seated in the 1904 De Dion Bouton Model Q, which she will ride in for the 60-mile event, Carole was presented with a commemorative certificate by National Motor Museum Manager and Chief Engineer Doug Hill.

Carole said: “I’m thrilled to bits. It was meant to be! Years ago, I used to live near the route of the run so I always went to watch the veteran cars pass by.”

Looking forward to taking part in the event, Carole is well aware that preparation is the key. “I’m hoping it’s not going to be raining, although I think I might need to wear my thermals!” she added.

The third prize went to Michael Burton, from Formby near Liverpool, who won a VIP trip around the New Forest in a vehicle from the National Motor Museum collection. This special day out also includes a visit to the Beaulieu Chocolate Studio for a demonstration and chocolate treat goody bag.

Tickets have gone on sale for a chance to win the 2019 National Motor Museum Trust Prize Draw. See www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/support-us/prize-draw for more details. 

Source: Beaulieu

MORGAN MOTOR COMPANY INTRODUCES RANGE OF ‘110 ANNIVERSARY’ MODELS AHEAD OF THEIR LANDMARK 110TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR

MORGAN MOTOR COMPANY INTRODUCES RANGE OF ‘110 ANNIVERSARY’ MODELS AHEAD OF THEIR LANDMARK 110TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR

The Morgan Motor Company is excited to announce the first in a number of celebrations for its 110th anniversary year in 2019, which will see a series of ‘110 Anniversary’ models added to the line-up.

Each of the ‘110 Anniversary’ models benefit from unique badging, denoting their significance as 110th year editions, as well as an extensive list of specially selected performance and styling options included at no extra cost.

In addition to performance and styling options, a new range of standard colours has also been introduced. In addition to the ‘Sport Range’ of colours, there is now a ‘Classic Range’ and ‘Metallic Range’, which includes a selection of colours chosen by Morgan Design. These colours reflect some of the most popular Morgan colours throughout the company’s history, as well as some personal favourites hand-picked by Morgan’s design team.

A mix of performance and visual enhancements are also offered with each ‘110 Anniversary’ model. A front valance, rear exit sports exhaust and leather bonnet strap stand out as the more purposeful and race inspired options for Plus 4 and Roadster.

Interior trim and detail enhancements include a leather or wood-rimmed Moto-Lita steering wheel, performance seats, a mohair hood pack and any choice of Yarwood leather, also available across Plus 4 and Roadster. In addition, customers will also have the option to have the ‘110 Anniversary’ logo embroidered on their headrest in matching or contrasting stich-work, further signifying the special nature of their new Morgan. All of these options are available at no extra cost.

The Plus 4 is priced from £44,106.00 inc. VAT in the UK, with 15 options worth a total of £8,700 now included within the price of the ‘110 Anniversary’ model.

The Roadster starts at £55,074.00 Inc. VAT in the UK, and similar benefits from a total of 15 new options offered at no extra cost but worth £8,000.

As well as the Plus 4 and Roadster, the 3 Wheeler also receives a selection of interior and exterior ‘110 Anniversary’ options at no extra cost. For the interior, quilted leather stitching, centre split seats, storage pockets and a mohair tonneau cover are now all included.

Stand out exterior options for the 3 Wheeler comprise any solid colour from the newly introduced colour ranges, black roll hoops, black exhaust heat shields and a body coloured engine cowl. The 3 Wheeler is priced from £39,486.00 inc. VAT in the UK. In total, 10 options are now included at no extra cost with the purchase of a new 3 Wheeler, worth a total of £3,300.

The announcement of the ‘110 Anniversary’ model changes for 2019 is the first in a series of announcements Morgan will make in their 110th year, their most significant milestone since the 2009 centenary.

“It is an immense pleasure and an honour to lead the Morgan Motor Company as we approach such a significant milestone in our history. We are delighted to be thriving as a privately owned, British, family-owned automotive manufacturer, and in our 110th year of business are stronger than ever. Milestones such as a 110th anniversary offer everyone associated with the brand an opportunity for reflection, as well as an opportunity for us to offer even more to our customers. The ‘110 Edition’ vehicles are the beginning of our celebrations, and we look forward to making further exciting announcements throughout 2019.”

Steve Morris, Managing Director, Morgan Motor Company

A TASTE OF CITROËN’S CENTENARY IN THE PARIS MOTOR SHOW 120th ANNIVERSARY PARADE

A TASTE OF CITROËN’S CENTENARY IN THE PARIS MOTOR SHOW 120TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE

This Sunday, Citroën will line up 25 symbolic models from its history, in a parade to celebrate 120 years of the Paris Motor Show. The display will start at 10:00 CET and the parade will depart from the Place de la Concorde at 13:00 CET. Original models such as the very first Type A from 1919 through to New C5 Aircross SUV from 2018 will be displayed. The procession of historic models from collectors and the Citroën Conservatoire museum will give a taste of what’s to come for the brand’s centenary celebrations next year.

To celebrate its 120th anniversary, Paris Motor Show is organising an unprecedented and historic parade through the streets of Paris, this Sunday 30 September.

The display begins at 10:00 CET where 230 historic vehicles will be presented at the Place de la Concorde. From 13:00 CET, the vehicles will begin their parade from Place de la Concorde, going past some of the French capital’s most iconic locations, such as Place des Invalides, Le Quai Branly and also the Champs-Elysées.

Amongst a range of vehicles, Citroën will line up 25 symbolic models from its history, from the very first Type A from 1919, the Traction Avant, 2CV, Ami 6, Méhari, SM, CX, New C5 Aircross SUV from 2018 and even a U23 coach. The 25 Citroën models in the procession will parade in chronological order, from the oldest to the most recent.

1. Citroën Type A Torpédo from 1919
2. Citroën C3 5 HP Trèfle from 1924
3. Citroën C4 Torpédo from 1934
4. Citroën Rosalie NH from 1936
5. Citroën Traction Avant 7C from 1937
6. Citroën Autocar U23 from 1947
7. Citroën Type H from 1952
8. Citroën Traction Avant 15-6 H from 1954
9. Citroën DS 19 cabriolet from 1961
10. Citroën Ami 6 from 1965
11. Citroën DS 21 Pallas from 1967
12. Citroën SM from 1972
13. Citroën DS 20 Pallas from 1973
14. Citroën GS X2 from 1976
15. Citroën Méhari from 1979
16. Citroën CX 2000 from 1979
17. Citroën 2 CV 6 Spécial E from 1983
18. Citroën BX 16 soupapes from 1991
19. Citroën XM Exclusive from 1998
20. Citroën Xsara Picasso « Le robot » from 1999
21. Citroën C6 from 2006
22. Citroën C5 from 2008
23. Citroën C4 Cactus from 2014
24. Citroën C3 Aircross from 2017
25. Citroën C5 Aircross from 2018

50 YEARS OF JAGUAR XJ: HISTORIC CONVOY HEADS TO PARIS MOTOR SHOW

50 YEARS OF JAGUAR XJ: HISTORIC CONVOY HEADS TO PARIS MOTOR SHOW

• Eight generations of XJ will drive from Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich Assembly Plant to the Paris Motor Show, to celebrate 50 years of the luxury saloon
• The XJ had its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in 1968
• The celebratory fleet includes every generation of XJ, including latest XJ50
• The unique convoy will visit important locations such as Jaguar Classic, a facility that is dedicated to preserving and restoring motoring heritage
• The convoy will also visit Goodwood motor circuit and Le Mans, locations that have played an important part in the history of Jaguar and the XJ
• Watch the Jaguar XJ evolve from the 1968 Series I to the XJ50 here: https://bit.ly/2CF0Bnn

 A unique convoy representing the past and present of the Jaguar XJ will journey from the Jaguar Castle Bromwich plant in the UK to the Paris Motor Show to celebrate 50 years of the flagship luxury saloon.

The line-up will feature all eight generations of XJ produced since 1968. The special collection will be led by the car that started it all, the Series I, and finish with the most recent XJ50 special edition, which was revealed earlier this year. The convoy will also include significant models such as the Series II Coupé and X350 XJR.

Starting at Castle Bromwich, where the luxury saloon is produced, the 839km (521-mile) drive will take in a series of important locations, including Jaguar Classic, Bicester Heritage Centre and the Goodwood and Le Mans race circuits, which have played a significant role in the life of Jaguar and the XJ. Journey’s end for the convoy is the Paris Motor Show, where the Jaguar XJ Series I made its debut in 1968.

Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design, said “The Jaguar XJ story is one of design, desirability and performance and over the past 50 years it has become a true giant in the automotive world and it’s only right that we pay homage to it in this special way. When I started at Jaguar, the XJ was already an icon of car design, so to have been part of this story that has been told over half a century has been an absolute privilege.” 

The cars taking part in this one-off journey:

• Jaguar XJ Series I: 1968
• Jaguar XJ Series II: 1973
• Jaguar XJ Series II Coupé: 1973
• Jaguar XJ Series III: 1979
• Jaguar XJ XJ40: 1986
• Jaguar XJ X300: 1994
• Jaguar XJ X308: 1997
• Jaguar XJ X350: 2003
• Jaguar XJ X351: 2009
• Jaguar XJR575: 2017
• Jaguar XJ XJ50: 2018

Paris has a special significance to the Jaguar XJ. In 1968 the XJ made its debut at the show, with Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons revealing his vision for a saloon car with the handling of an E-type. The luxury model was a revelation with its compelling combination of beauty, poise and performance. Since then, the presentation halls of Paris have played a regular role in the life of the XJ – the XJ ‘X300’ was unveiled at the event in 1994 and the revolutionary XJ ‘X350’, with its lightweight aluminium monocoque, made its debut there in 2002.

Returning to the Paris Motor Show 50 years after its first appearance on the show stand caps a series of celebrations for one of the world’s great saloon cars, which has been the choice of business leaders, celebrities, politicians and royalty for five decades.

The celebrations began with the introduction of the XJ50 earlier in 2018. The special edition model includes Autobiography-style front and rear bumpers, purposeful new 20-inch Venom wheels, black front grille and unique badging to the rear and side vents. Inside, the luxury cabin features an embossed leaper on the headrests, an XJ50 logo on the centre armrest, unique intaglio branding and XJ50-badged illuminated treadplates.

For more information on the XJ, visit www.jaguar.co.uk

Source: Jaguar UK

David Brown Automotive Takes Wraps Off Speedback Silverstone Edition In Geneva

David Brown Automotive Takes Wraps Off Speedback Silverstone Edition In Geneva

• David Brown Automotive reveals Speedback Silverstone Edition at Geneva International Motor Show
• Speedback Silverstone Edition celebrates the anniversary of David Brown Automotive’s relocation of its headquarters and coachbuilding facility at the historic racing venue
• Aeronautical and classic racing theme evident in 1960s-inspired design
• A classically-inspired performance Grand Tourer for the 21^st Century
• 5.0-litre twin-scroll supercharged V8 engine delivers over 600hp and 565ft lb of torque, David Brown Automotive’s most powerful and performance focused model yet
• Intricate brogued and embroidered interior trim befitting a jet-inspired cockpit
• David Brown Automotive is a leader in British coachbuilding and handcraftsmanship; Silverstone Edition limited to only 10 bespoke cars
• Further information on the car can be found online at: www.davidbrownautomotive.com/silverstone-edition

Geneva, Switzerland (6^th March, 2018): David Brown Automotive has today unveiled Speedback Silverstone Edition at the Geneva International Motor Show. Taking inspiration from the dawn of the jet age and classic racers from the 1960s, Speedback Silverstone Edition is a pure performance Grand Tourer for the 21^st Century.

Limited to a run of only 10 production cars, Speedback Silverstone Edition is an example of bespoke British handcraftsmanship. Each model will be made using traditional coachbuilding techniques at David Brown Automotive’s headquarters and build facility in Silverstone, the home of the iconic racing circuit. Celebrating one year since David Brown Automotive moved to its Silverstone base, the new model is honed for performance, drawing close links to the aeronautical and racing heritage of the celebrated circuit.

Delivering 601 horsepower with 565ft lb of torque, a 0-60mph time of 4.2 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph, the 5.0-litre twin-scroll supercharged V8 engine fitted to the new model makes for the most performance orientated car ever produced by David Brown Automotive. The impressive powertrain is mated to a six-speed ZF automatic transmission and drive is delivered through the Grand Tourer’s rear wheels for assured sports handling.

Advancing the finely tuned Grand Tourer formula set by Speedback GT, Speedback Silverstone Edition includes an upgraded suspension system for enhanced handling and dynamics, as well as comfort, refinement and cutting-edge technological features for an on-demand, responsive and exhilarating driving experience. A fully automated Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, safety technologies, performance brakes and active rear differential make the Silverstone Edition a retro-inspired, driving-focused Grand Tourer for the modern age.

The aeronautical- and classic racing-inspired theme is clear in the visual identity of Speedback Silverstone Edition, building on the unique design language found only in each car handmade by David Brown Automotive. The handcrafted aluminium body is streamlined with extended side skirts, a front spoiler and enhanced rear diffuser, while larger side vents – badged with limited edition Silverstone Edition details – hint to the performance-enhanced powertrain beneath. Jet-inspired exhaust tips compound the race-tuned engine note and compliment the car’s performance characteristics.

Moving around the car – which assumes the sleek profile of a classic racer with its menacing, streamlined stance – the Silverstone Edition is fitted with unique, forged 20-inch ‘Afterburner’ bespoke designed alloy wheels. A bespoke signature pattern grille is fitted with twin LED auxiliary driving lamps, enhancing visibility and complimenting the dark ceramic LED technical headlamps and clear lens tail lights.

Brushed chrome exterior brightware matches the ‘Fly By Night’ multi-layer metallic paintwork, finished with a subtle ‘Black Night’ fading centre stripe. Tinted rear glass and a unique monotone David Brown Automotive die-sunk enamelled, chrome-plated badging complete the aggressively styled exterior theme.

Inside the cockpit, a Sixties-inspired, exquisitely brogued and embroidered interior trim befits the essence of a performance Grand Tourer. The ‘Antique’ and ‘Ebony’ leather hides are bound by contrasting tan stitching, and the Kvadrat^® ‘Remix’ premium fabric further adds to the quality and aeronautical personality within the cabin. An open-pore, scorched ‘Ebony Macassar’ wood veneer finish fades rearward, with metal inlay completing the dashboard, which features jet-inspired air vents to pay homage to the aeronautical and racing past of the Silverstone Circuit.

The two-seater configuration – with rear luggage storage space in the place of rear seats – features heated and adjustable sports seats that are adorned with a stylised Silverstone Circuit outline embroidered into the tan leather. Like Speedback GT, the folding ‘event seat’ features prominently at the rear of the car with an additional bespoke stowage feature. The application of leather and Alcantara^® extends to the steering wheel, also fitted with bespoke brushed aluminium switchgear.

A brushed chrome finish is prominent around the interior. Exclusive aeronautical-inspired speedometer and tachometer dials perpetuate the legacy of Speedback Silverstone Edition, while a fully integrated infotainment system is another proponent to position the car as a classically styled, performance Grand Tourer in the modern age. The in-car technology package includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth^® connectivity and a 7.1-channel Bowers & Wilkins^® surround sound audio system.

“Ever since David Brown Automotive relocated to Silverstone, we have wanted to mark the significance of the circuit’s aeronautical and motorsport heritage,” said David Brown, company founder and CEO. “Speedback Silverstone Edition addresses our ambition on every level, as a visually stunning Grand Tourer and the most performance-focused model we have ever made.

“We have developed Speedback Silverstone Edition to appeal to a new customer; the driver who wants the very best in performance at all times, but still wants to retain usability and driveability in an exclusive model which still offers both comfort and luxury. The David Brown Automotive DNA is clear to see again, building on the success of Speedback GT and Mini Remastered models, while our inspiration from the heritage of the Silverstone Circuit shapes this new model as a classically-inspired performance Grand Tourer for the modern market.”

Speedback Silverstone Edition is priced from £620,000.00 GBP*, alongside the other David Brown Automotive models that are handbuilt at the company’s Silverstone build facility. Speedback GT is priced from £520,000.00 GBP* and the Mini Remastered has a list price of £75,000.00 GBP* (*excluding taxes, duties and shipping). Built to order, the car can be made in either left-hand or right-hand drive.