COUNT’S RECORD-BREAKING BABS JOINS CHITTY EXHIBITION AT BEAULIEU

COUNT’S RECORD-BREAKING BABS JOINS CHITTY EXHIBITION AT BEAULIEU

BABS in Beaulieu exhibition

The iconic Land Speed Record breaker Babs that inspired Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has joined the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 50 years exhibition at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.

The incredible machine, known as Chitty Bang Bang IV, was the creation of racing driver Count Louis Zborowski and inspired Ian Fleming’s Chitty Chitty Bang Bang story.

Babs joins an original screen Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the Humber 8hp driven by Truly Scrumptious, the original Child Catcher carriage, Coggins Garage recreated in the museum to house the inventive machines of Rowland Emett and a replica of Grandpa Potts’ hut in Beaulieu’s Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 50 years which celebrates the film’s golden anniversary.

Babs started life in 1923 as the Higham Special and was even more extreme in its design than the Count’s previous three Chittys. When he died a year later, it was bought for £125 by talented racing driver John Godfrey Parry-Thomas who re-christened it, Babs. After boosting power to 500 bhp by adding new pistons to its American Liberty V12 aeroplane engine, Parry-Thomas beat the Land Speed Record by more than 20mph by reaching 171mph.

When Sir Malcolm Campbell raised the record again the following year, Parry-Thomas made an attempt to regain the title which ended in disaster and he was killed. The wrecked car was buried at Pendine Sands, where it remained for more than 40 years.

In 1969 Babs was excavated by university lecturer and car restorer Owen Wyn Owen, who discovered that the car was not as badly decayed as expected and embarked on bringing it back to its former glory. Today, the fully-restored Babs is a fitting tribute to the aeroplane-engined racing cars and their fearless drivers whose exploits inspired Ian Fleming.

Other Chitty memorabilia on show at Beaulieu includes the leather bonnet strap from the Count’s original Mercedes Chitty, a solid silver Chitty model bought for producer Cubby Broccoli by his wife Dana and original film concept art by Sir Ken Adam, storyboard watercolour artwork by Robert Laing and technical drawings by Peter Lamont which have never been previously exhibited.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 50 years can be seen as part of the general admission to Beaulieu, which includes entrance to the National Motor Museum, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, the ancestral Montagu family home of Palace House, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and the grounds and gardens. To buy tickets in advance online or for more information see www.beaulieu.co.uk or call 01590 612345.

Find us on Twitter @Beaulieu_Hants, Facebook at /nationalmotormuseum or Instagram @national_motor_museum and join the conversation with #Chitty50years.

THE SEAT 1400: SEAT’S FIRST EVER VEHICLE CELEBRATES ITS 65TH ANNIVERSARY

THE SEAT 1400: SEAT’S FIRST EVER VEHICLE CELEBRATES ITS 65TH ANNIVERSARY

The car that launched SEAT is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. The SEAT 1400, a luxurious and elegant saloon, marked the beginning of the brand’s story and formed the platform for its future success.

The first SEAT 1400 – with registration plate number B-87.223 – rolled off the production line at the brand’s Zona Franca factory in Barcelona on the 13th November 1953, just three years after the brand had been formed.

Priced at 117,000 pesetas (around €705 or £616), the production rate was just five vehicles a day during the first year, but that number would rapidly climb.

Conceived as the vehicle to build the foundations of SEAT’s business, 1400 was an impressively executed four-door, front engine, rear-wheel drive saloon, equally at home as an official state authority vehicle or providing transportation to the masses as a public taxi.

Performance to impress

Built at SEAT’s manufacturing plant in Barcelona, with an initial workforce of 925 employees, the 1400’s technical specifications were reflective of the period: longitudinally mounted petrol engine at the front with power delivered to the rigid rear axle which incorporated a differential.

That engine was a four-cylinder unit with a displacement of 1,395cc, linked to a four-speed manual transmission and with a maximum output of 44PS, giving it a top speed of 120km/h.

The chassis incorporated helical springs that produced an elastic effect on the rear suspension, and longitudinal semi-cantilever springs – which acted as thrust arms – to give it anti-roll stabilisation. A Panhard rod ensured the lateral positioning of the axle. This setup was ultra-modern for the time.

The 1400’s exterior took its design cue from American vehicles of the time, with a rounded rear shape extenuated by conical-shaped rear lights, but it also introduced curved, one-piece windscreens and a heating system to the market.

As well as appealing aesthetics, the SEAT 1400 also offered more than sufficient performance. Its 48-litre fuel tank gave it significant range thanks to its fuel consumption figure of 10.5 litres/100km (27mpg) and it would gladly cruise at 100km/h (62mpg).

Manufactured for success

By the end of the SEAT 1400’s initial production run in 1954, 1,345 units had been produced, but that was just the beginning of the car’s life. The 1400 family continued with the introduction of the 1400 A in 1954, the 1400B in 1956 and 1400 C in 1960, along with a number of special versions.

With each version came improvements to the performance and design, helping solidify its position in the market and grow SEAT as a brand.

The 1400 helped SEAT’s growth skyrocket. Initial production numbers were small, by the end of 1954, 959 units were delivered, however, a year later annual production was tipping towards 3,000 – and the 1400 was produced with nearly 100% nationally sourced components.

In 1956 7,000 vehicles were manufactured, with that number hitting 10,000 a year later. By the end of its life, 98,978 units had been sold and its place in history was guaranteed.

Technical specifications

SEAT 1400

Engine
Number of cylinders/valves	Four-cylinder/Eight valves
Bore and stroke	82mm x 66mm
Displacement	1,395cc
Carburettor	Solex or Weber downdraft with manual choke
Cooling	Liquid cooled belt driven fan. Water pump
Transmission	Four-speed manual, plus reverse
Chassis	Front: Independent, deformable trapezium with springs and telescopic shock absorbers Rear: Rigid axle with springs, telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers and longitudinal leaf springs
Tyres	5.90 x 14
Brakes	Front and rear drums

JAGUAR F-TYPE RALLY CARS CELEBRATE 70 YEARS OF SPORTS CAR HERITAGE

JAGUAR F-TYPE RALLY CARS CELEBRATE 70 YEARS OF SPORTS CAR HERITAGE

Watch F-TYPE rally cars in action: https://youtu.be/YsUcDmCmLMg

12 November 2018, Whitley: Jaguar has developed two F-TYPE Convertible rally cars, with design cues from the F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition, to continue its celebration of 70 years of sports car heritage since the XK 120 was revealed in 1948.

The one-off F-TYPE rally cars also pay homage to the legendary Jaguar XK 120 registered ‘NUB 120’ which, in the early 1950s in the hands of Ian Appleyard, completed three consecutive Alpine Rallies without incurring a single penalty point, and won the RAC and Tulip.

Both rally-specification F-TYPE Convertibles are powered by Jaguar’s 300PS 2.0-litre Ingenium four-cylinder petrol engine. With modifications overseen by Jaguar Design and Engineering, both cars were built to FIA specification, with comprehensively uprated brakes and suspension fitted alongside a protective roll cage, race-seats with a six-point harness, bonnet-mounted light pod and fire extinguisher.

Ian Callum, Jaguar Director of Design, said: “The opportunity to design a rally car doesn’t come along very often so I was fascinated to see how we could take our modern day sports car to a similar character. These models are a fitting tribute to the XK 120 and all the great Jaguar sports cars since its reveal 70 years ago, including the latest F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition."

The rally F-TYPEs feature upgrades to the brakes, suspension and drivetrain including the addition of grooved discs with four-piston callipers front and rear. Hand-built competition dampers and softer springs ensure the high-performance cars can be driven flat-out over rough rally stages. Three-way adjustable dampers allow the cars to be tuned for different surfaces and feature spherical bearings for added precision. With motorsport-spec wheels and tyres specifically for use on gravel, a limited-slip differential improves power delivery on loose surfaces while a hydraulic handbrake helps drivers tackle hairpin bends.

The celebratory models were put through their paces at the Walters Arena rally stage, South Wales, to demonstrate their performance credentials and will now attend a series of Jaguar events over the next few months.

The rally cars’ livery takes design inspiration from the new F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition, which features a range of subtle exterior visual enhancements, including unique 20-inch Gloss Black wheels with a Diamond Turned finish and a Black Contrast roof on the Coupé. Inside, the luxurious Ebony Windsor Leather interior features Performance seats with embossed Chequered Flag headrests and a Dark Brushed Aluminium centre console trim finisher.

The Jaguar F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition is available from £62,335 and can be configured at www.jaguar.co.uk. You can read more about the F-TYPE Chequered Flag Limited Edition here.

TEN OF THE BEST: CLASSIC & SPORTS CAR CLUB AWARDS NAMES 2018 WINNERS

TEN OF THE BEST: CLASSIC & SPORTS CAR CLUB AWARDS NAMES 2018 WINNERS

The winners of the 2018 Classic & Sports Car Club Awards, held in association with Lancaster Insurance, have been revealed at a memorable ceremony at the Hilton Metropole, Birmingham.

This year, the judges received an unprecedented number of entries from a diverse array of car clubs, as well as those passionate individuals who share a drive to preserve motoring history and broaden the appeal of the classic car community.

Alastair Clements, Editor in Chief of Classic & Sports Car, said: “Our judging panel was blown away by the volume and quality of the submissions this year. The overall impression from evaluating the entries was just how passionate, supportive and welcoming the entire classic car world is. We’ve learnt about labour-of-love restorations, incredible charity drives, youthful exuberance and an especially poignant rally marking the centenary of World War I. These extraordinary groups are the people who shape the classic car community. Moreover, the submissions also brought home what a bright future there is for classic motoring, and we would like to congratulate all of our 2018 winners on their fantastic efforts over the past year.”

The winners of the 2018 Classic & Sports Car Club Awards in association with Lancaster Insurance are:

Club of the Year: Ford100e.com

Lancaster Insurance Club Initiative of the Year: ‘Crossmember’ membership system, The Rover P6 Club

Club Personality of the Year: Peter Lee, Transit Van Club

Best Contribution to Charity: Secret Supercar Meet, Supercar Driver

Best Contribution by a Youngster: Katrina Forey, TR Register

Most Improved Club Magazine: Talbot Owners’ Club Magazine

Club Magazine of the Year: Idle Chatter, The 1100 Club

Best Club Website: www.hondas800sportscarclub.co.uk, Honda S800 Sports Car Club

Best Club Run/Rally: ‘The Long, Long Trail’, The Veteran Car Club of Great Britain

Best Club Show/Event: International Alvis Weekend 2018, Alvis Owner Club

In addition to these 10 pre-show categories, the Classic & Sports Car Club Awards judges also spent time exploring the halls of the Classic Motor Show, taking place this weekend at Birmingham’s NEC. The panel looked at car clubs’ displays across a further seven categories, seeking out the best cars and stands at the show.

These seven winning displays are:

Most Interesting Selection of Cars: Historic Lotus Register (Stand 2-840)

Best Themed Club Stand: Austin Counties Car Club (Stand 3-495)

Best Small Club Stand: Fiat 500 Enthusiasts’ Club (Stand 5-560)

Best Medium Club Stand: Wolseley Register (Stand 3-158)

Best Large Club Stand: Veteran Car Club (Stand 1-355)

Car of the Show: Bugatti Type 57S Vanvooren Cabriolet, courtesy Andrew Pisker, Bugatti Owners’ Club (Stand 1-325)

C&SC Special Award: Ford Cortina GT, courtesy Theo Bengry, Historic Marathon Rally Group (Stand 8-360)

To read more about our 2018 winners, head over to the Classic & Sports Car website at www.classicandsportscar.com or follow us on our social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook using #CSCClubAwards.

RACE, RETRAIN AND RE-COVER, MISSION MOTORSPORT JAGUAR F-TYPE #POPPYCAR WINS VEHICLE GRAPHICS 2018 SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT

RACE, RETRAIN AND RE-COVER, MISSION MOTORSPORT JAGUAR F-TYPE #POPPYCAR WINS VEHICLE GRAPHICS 2018 SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT

Winning top honours at the British Signs Awards as Vehicle Graphics 2018 Special Achievement Award, this year marks a poignant partnership for Jaguar and Mission Motorsport’s Jaguar F-Type SVR Poppy Car as we approach the centenary of the Armistice this weekend. Following its Vehicle Graphics 2018 Special Achievement Award win, the Mission Motorsport-liveried Jaguar F-Type SVR will go on to the Forces’ Motorsport Charity’s annual Race of Remembrance at Anglesey Circuit this weekend (9-11 November) to lead the packed grid of 50 racing cars as the official Safety Car.

A year since the Poppy Car was unveiled in November 2017, and 100 years since the end of WW1, the poppy-themed Jaguar F-Type SVR has been a focal point for the recovery of wounded, injured and sick-servicemen. A collaboration between Jaguar and the Forces’ Motorsport Charity, Mission Motorsport, the Poppy Car is just one project by Mission Motorsport, a charity that has helped give jobs to 1,500 ex-servicemen and women in the automotive industry – 954 in Jaguar Land Rover alone since the first Invictus Games in 2014.

The Poppy Car was designed and wrapped by ex-servicemen Lance Corporal Chris Read, Guardsman Chris Walker, Private Dan Elliott Lance Corporal Francis Stokes and Sergeant Major David Turnbull, all of whom are beneficiaries of Mission Motorsport and were medically discharged from service. The core team of Read, Walker and Elliott prototyped, designed, reprinted and went back to the drawing board countless times, but they succeeded, emphatically, at creating something uniquely poignant. No two views of the Jaguar F-Type SVR are the same. The Poppy Car changes with the light, with perspective, and with the words of the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ running through the design the car represents more than an art installation – it is something that has resonance, depth, and meaning.

Since the Jaguar F-Type SVR was wrapped, three of the ex-servicemen have moved into full-time employment, Lance Corporal Francis Stokes now works for Williams F1. Private Dan Elliot secured employment within Jaguar Land Rover working in their Research department and Sergeant Major David Turnbull is currently running the Livery department at Mission Motorsport.

Speaking on behalf of the charity about winning this important award, CEO James Cameron said, “The Poppy Car is a collaboration and project that has brought so much joy to everyone that has worked on and been close to it. The team were entirely responsible for the creative and practical delivery of the project from first principles, and the finished car has become emblematic of the wider cause, particularly poignant as we approach Remembrance weekend.

“At Mission Motorsport, our aim is to provide a stepping stone for our ex-servicemen and women to get back into day-to-day life away from the battlefield. Race, retrain and ‘re-cover’, our livery department is ecstatic that despite fantastic competition the Poppy Car won the Vehicle Wrap of the Year. An amazing achievement for those involved and reflects the emotion, hard work and dedication that went into making such a remarkable car.”

Starting this year as it means to go on, the Mission Motorsport Jaguar F-Type SVR Poppy Car started 2018 on stage at the International Autosport Show at the NEC. From there it has visited all the Recovery Centres throughout the UK, toured battlefields – turning heads and raising awareness. Not just a showpiece, the 575bhp Jaguar F-Type SVR has also been used at the VMax 200 events at Kendrew Barracks as part of a wider recovery sports program for beneficiaries to get the chance to reach over 180 mph behind the wheel.

Approaching the centenary of the Armistice, this week the car embarked on the JLR Remembrance Tour visiting manufacturing sites across the UK and was the centrepiece for the launch of the Poppy Appeal in Birmingham. Once again, the car will finish its journey at the Race of Remembrance in Wales where it will act as the official Safety Car for the race. The 2018 Race of Remembrance event, organised by Mission Motorsport, the Forces’ Motorsport Charity, will be the fifth consecutive annual 12-hour endurance race held at Anglesey Circuit, which commemorates the sacrifices made by service personnel and their families. This year will be especially poignant as it marks 100 years since the guns fell silent at the end of WW1.

THE ROYAL AUTOMOBILE CLUB LAUNCHES ANNUAL HISTORIC AWARDS

THE ROYAL AUTOMOBILE CLUB LAUNCHES ANNUAL HISTORIC AWARDS

The Royal Automobile Club is launching a new set of annual awards to recognise excellence and outstanding contributions to the UK’s historic motoring and motorsport industries at a gala evening to be held in the Club’s Pall Mall clubhouse on Thursday 21 November 2019.

Continuing the Club’s rich pedigree in celebrating motoring accomplishments, the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards will reward achievement and innovation by highlighting and celebrating the wide range of companies, clubs, events, associations and individuals responsible for influencing and driving the British historic motoring movement.

The nomination and judging process is central to the prestige and integrity of the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards. With the exception of the Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award, category nominations will be invited from all corners of the UK’s historic motoring scene.

The Awards will be judged by a hand-picked panel of independent experts consisting of some of the most highly-regarded individuals in their respective fields, each with specific in-depth knowledge of their assigned categories, making a win one of the most sought-after accolades in the industry.

The Royal Automobile Club has been at the heart of the motoring and motorsport world for over 120 years since its formation in 1897 and the Awards serve as a natural continuation of the Club’s heritage.

Ben Cussons, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club, commented: “The Club has a long history of rewarding endeavours, starting with the first British Grand Prix in 1926. We do everything for the long-term - witness the Veteran Car Run which is over a century old - meaning these awards will become an annual event going forward. Our independent judging panel is integral to these Historic Awards – each one is hand-picked based on their depth of knowledge and expertise in their field. All judges will base their decisions on a clear set of criteria so that candidates will understand exactly how each category will be assessed.

“This is a perfect opportunity for the Club to honour and celebrate the wealth of talent and commitment that exists across this vibrant and growing industry. We are delighted to be partnering with Historic Promotions; Duncan Wiltshire’s team are true enthusiasts for all things related to historic motoring and motorsport and bring a significant degree of expertise and credibility to the awards”.

Duncan Wiltshire, Chairman of Historic Promotions, said: “The Royal Automobile Club has the unimpeachable authority and integrity which is imperative for any awards programme. We are delighted to be working with the Club on this major new activity, which we believe will raise the bar for such awards and become a highly respected fixture on the motoring calendar. We are hand-picking judges who have a remarkable amount of experience across the categories and who can recognise excellence and appreciate outstanding talent.”

Award categories will be announced on 9 January 2019 and nominations for the inaugural Awards open on 20 March 2019.

The gala evening on the 21 November 2019 will see the leading lights from across the industry gather to celebrate and honour the winners in style at the historic Pall Mall clubhouse.

The Awards will complement the Royal Automobile Club’s current motoring activities such as the 1000 Mile Trial, the Regent Street Motor Show and the Veteran Car Run and join the renowned list of Club motoring and motorsport awards and trophies, which include the Dewar Trophy the Segrave Trophy, the coveted Historic Tourist Trophy, the Woodcote Trophy and the Royal Automobile TT Celebration, the jewel in the crown of the Goodwood Revival.

To learn more about the awards please go to the Royal Automobile Club website.

AROUND THE WORLD IN 70 INCREDIBLE DAYS!

AROUND THE WORLD IN 70 INCREDIBLE DAYS!   • Ambitious new endurance ‘Rally the Globe’ club launched • Classic car automotive adventures topped by around the world epic • Carrera Iberia and Southern Cross Safari in East Africa also confirmed • A team of renowned experts to mastermind intercontinental events    An exciting and significant new international endurance rally club is launched today (Wednesday), together with confirmation of an epic round the world motoring adventure in 2020/2021.   Founded by renowned rallying mastermind Fred Gallagher with substantial backing from a number of influential endurance rally participants, Rally the Globe has been established to deliver unrivalled levels of professionalism, experience, vision and voyage.   Emphasising this inspirational ethos for delivering outstanding trans-nation and inter-continental competition and camaraderie for enthusiastic owners of pre-1976 vintage and classic cars, detailed planning for three truly incredible events is already in motion.   The evocatively titled ‘Carrera Iberia’ in October 2019 will mark Rally the Globe’s debut, providing entrants with some of the finest driving possible in Spain and Portugal. Deserted country roads, race circuits and historic hotels are all on the menu.   The focus then switches from western Europe to East Africa for the inaugural ‘Southern Cross Safari’ in February 2020. Set in Kenya and Tanzania it, too, features an amazing route taking competitors through both Masai Mara and Serengeti National Reserves before finishing on the shores of the Indian Ocean.   Then – and very much living up to the club’s name – comes the ultimate ‘Round The World’. Combining both adventure and endurance, this zenith of all road trips will be split into three sections: the first from London to Casablanca via the Sahara; the second from New York to Anchorage in Alaska and the third from Vladivostok in eastern Russia back to London. The rally will be staged over a total of 70 days between May 2020 and June 2021.   Participants will be able to compete in one, two or all three legs of the rally.  The ultimate prize will be to complete – or even dare to win– the Round The World title. A number of equally spectacular events are also in the pipeline (see map below).    “It’s an ambitious and exceptional programme that really underlines our philosophy of providing those possessing a true spirit of adventure with memorable drives through parts of the world that they probably wouldn’t otherwise ever see or savour,” explained Rally Director, Gallagher. “We pride ourselves not only in finding some of the greatest driving roads on Earth but also in seeking out both quirky and astonishing places along the route for our crews to relish in between their competitive tests.”   Having competed at the very top level winning numerous World Championship rallies when co-driving with sporting legends such as Juha Kankkunen, Ari Vatanen and Björn Waldegård – and subsequently working as Clerk of the Course on many World Rally Championship rallies and classic enduros – Gallagher’s track record is second to none.   Adding further strength to the notable Rally the Globe organising team, Gallagher has secured the services of many of the most experienced and well-respected figures in the operation and management of successful global endurance rallies.   John Spiller, who oversaw the Subaru rally team in the Colin McRae era and more recently has successfully overseen events in Southeast Asia, South America and the Middle East, has joined Rally the Globe. A number of other proven experts in logistics, rally organisation and technical support have also confirmed that they will be joining the club in the coming months.   “Fred has put together a fantastic team including just about all the top names in endurance rallying,” confirmed 1920s Bentley owner and Rally the Globe Chairman, Graham Goodwin who is a regular competitor as well as a pro-active investor in the new venture.   “We are setting this up as a not-for-profit club for invited members all sharing a similar passion for memorable automotive adventures. We all desire events that will serve up a magical cocktail of great classic cars, the thrill of competition and some unforgettable shared experiences in far-off places – and that’s what Fred and his impressive Rally the Globe group will deliver in spades!”   For more information on the Rally, the Globe team and the three events already announced, visit www.rallytheglobe.com.

CONFERENCE CENTRE AT BICESTER HERITAGE FOLLOWING UNANIMOUS PLANNING APPROVAL

CONFERENCE CENTRE AT BICESTER HERITAGE FOLLOWING UNANIMOUS PLANNING APPROVAL

The next stage in the vision for Bicester Heritage to become the world’s leading automotive destination will be the addition of a 344-room hotel to the successful Centre of Excellence.

Following unanimous planning approval, this critical milestone is not only a huge step forward in an overarching strategic vision for the unique destination for motoring past, present and future but also a vital step in ensuring a sustainable future for the UK’s best preserved WW2 RAF Bomber Station. 

Featuring an expansive four-storey atrium, restaurant and bar, courtyard, gym, swimming pool and spa, the hotel will encourage a wide range of visitors to Oxfordshire across the business and leisure sectors increasing dwell time in the area significantly, as well as bringing in a projected 250,000 visitors per annum and creating an estimated 180 full time jobs. Bicester Heritage has also been highlighted as a key player in the Oxford-Cambridge ‘growth corridor’ and seeks to provide the required business accommodation and high-tech conferencing facilities required for this. 

The hotel shall be situated within the 425-acre Bicester Heritage site, 1.5 hours from half of the UK population and within easy reach of major tourist attractions including Bicester Village, Blenheim Palace, Stowe House, Silverstone Circuit and the City of Oxford. Furthermore, the hotel will act as a gateway to the Cotswolds and has been validated by CBRE hotel specialists for this purpose.

In addition, the development is part of an integrated growth strategy for the region and the construction of this landmark hotel, amongst the top 15 largest UK hotels outside London, answers the question of under-supply in the regional hotel sector. 

Bicester Heritage is held as a national exemplar for constructive conservation by Historic England, and this conservation-led development will utilise materials inspired by the existing pre-war RAF buildings. The overall design language is in tune with the surrounding buildings, with the structure mimicking the shapes of the existing hangars and built on the same footprint as the 1936 C-Type hangars.  It follows the form, orientation and scale of one of the two planned, but unbuilt, hangars from the pre-war era. 

Dan Geoghegan, Managing Director of Bicester Heritage, commented “The unanimous approval by the Planning Authority demonstrates the strength of local government support for our vision.   It also reflects the high esteem in which Bicester Heritage is held alongside its national importance to the automotive sector.”

“The hotel will be at the vanguard of a new lifestyle-driven masterplan to provide a motoring experience worthy of the modern era.”

 

LIGHTS, CARBURETTORS, ACTION! FOOTMAN JAMES TO SPONSOR THE CAR YEARS TV SHOW

LIGHTS, CARBURETTORS, ACTION! FOOTMAN JAMES TO SPONSOR THE CAR YEARS TV SHOW

Launching in 2019, a new classic car show will be gracing TV screens, sponsored by Footman James - one of the UK's leading specialist vehicle insurance brokers.

A fresh take on the classic car scene, the premise is simple. Every episode of The Car Years will focus on a specific year of motoring. Vicki will choose her favourite car of that year, and Alex will have his, with both presenters then working to convince the expert panel of judges which is best. At the end of each show, one model will be crowned the car of its year.

Presenters Vicki and Alex are both excited by the possibilities the Footman James backed show allows. "I'm thrilled to be part of this beautifully shot series that allows us to tell the stories behind some of the best known and interesting cars ever made," said Vicki Butler-Henderson. 

Co-presenter Alex Riley added, "This show is a rare thing - it's all about the cars. We're not telling people how to be a dealer or a restorer and we're not just larking about, instead we're championing great cars and telling the fascinating stories behind them."

The presenters will have to win over the three judges, each of whom double up as expert commentators to tell the stories and backgrounds behind the cars. Famous faces include Chris Routledge, Managing Director of leading auction house Coys, Quentin Willson, presenter and journalist and ex-Top Gear and current The Grand Tour script editor, Richard Porter. 

Footman James is an obvious choice to sponsor the show. With 35 years experience in brokering classic vehicle insurance deals for owners, collectors, traders, restorers and competitors, Footman James will sponsor each of the episodes due to air in 2019. 

Footman James managing director, David Bond, said, "We are excited to embark on this new adventure with The Car Years and are thrilled to see such respected influencers in the classic vehicle industry jump on board. We can't wait to see the series hit our screens early next year and we hope everyone is looking forward to it as much as we are."

Footman James, the trusted name of classic car and motorcycle insurance, is delighted to be partnering up with The Car Years TV show. Ensuring that Footman James stays in the right company, the series has been created by production company Wiser Films. The production is led by Tas Brooker and Jim Wiseman who previously produced Wheeler Dealers and Top Gearrespectively. 

With the NEC Classic Motor Show just around the corner, lead presenters Vicki Butler-Henderson and Alex Riley will be available for one to one interviews after a press call on the Footman James stand in Hall 1, Friday 9th November at 12:45pm. 

So, stay tuned for the first episode of The Car Years where you'll see a 1964 Porsche 911 take on a 1964 Ford Mustang. 

LOTUS DESIGNER’S PERSONAL COLLECTION IS DONATED TO THE NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM TRUST AT BEAULIEU

LOTUS DESIGNER’S PERSONAL COLLECTION IS DONATED TO THE NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM TRUST AT BEAULIEU

An important personal collection of drawings and documents by Lotus sports car designer and inventor Ron Hickman has been donated to the National Motor Museum Trust at Beaulieu.

More than 100 sketches and concept drawings, as well as numerous reference photographs and documents, have been donated to the Trust by his widow Helen, following his death at the age of 78 in 2011.

The prolific designer was behind legendary Lotus sports cars including the Elan, Europa and Elite and also invented the revolutionary Black & Decker Workmate folding workbench during his successful and varied career.

The fascinating collection spans his years spent working on vehicle design, with a strong emphasis on his time as a Lotus Director. Most of the drawings are original works, complemented by copies of sketches. As many as 60 box files contain correspondence relating to his autobiography, as well as a complete project showing his proposed redesign of the Caterham Seven.

National Motor Museum Trust Director of Collections Andrea Bishop said: “We extend grateful thanks to Mrs Hickman for this generous and important donation. Ron Hickman’s significant contribution to automotive design adds a fascinating insight into the development of Lotus Cars to our motoring archive. We are looking forward to exploring this large collection and sharing some of its content on our website next year.”

Born in South Africa in 1932, Hickman trained in law before moving to England in 1954, taking up a design post in Ford’s Dagenham design studio. After meeting Lotus company founder Colin Chapman in the mid-1950s, Ron left Ford to become an integral part of the Lotus design team.

Heavily involved with the creation of the 1957 Lotus Elite, Hickman later masterminded the iconic 1962 Lotus Elan with Chapman, which became one of the most revered sports cars of the ‘60s. His later efforts included the Lotus Europa and Elan 2+2. Leaving the company in 1967, he focused on his most commercially successful design – the Workmate – which has sold millions worldwide and is still in production today.

The National Motor Museum Trust’s collection of over 250 vehicles is world-famous, along with its extensive range of motoring artefacts, photographic images, specialist reference library and film and video collection.

Dedicated to preserving the history of motoring in Britain, the National Motor Museum Trust is a charitable organisation with a mission to engage and inspire people through its diverse collections, which are housed in the Collections Centre at Beaulieu. The Collections have been designated by Arts Council England as being of national and international importance. As an Accredited Museum, the National Motor Museum adheres to nationally agreed standards of good practice and governance. For more information about its collection and services see www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk.

Q BY ASTON MARTIN: ‘DBS 59’ MARKS LEGENDARY 1959 LE MANS WIN

Q BY ASTON MARTIN: ‘DBS 59’ MARKS LEGENDARY 1959 LE MANS WIN

Collection of 24 ‘DBS 59’ special editions

 One of the greatest moments in Aston Martin Lagonda’s (AML) illustrious motorsport history is the inspiration for the latest Q by Aston Martin: Commission; the ‘DBS 59’.

Inspired by Aston Martin’s historic 1-2 finish in the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans with its iconic DBR1, Aston Martin Cambridge has commissioned a collection of 24 very special DBS Superleggeras - one for every hour of the legendary endurance race. Called the ‘DBS 59’, each is identified by bespoke design features, hand-crafted interiors and graphic elements drawing directly from the DBR1 and the race it so famously conquered.

A marque synonymous with success in the world’s toughest endurance race - the most recent being a dramatic class win for the V8 Vantage GTE in last year’s race - Aston Martin’s outright victory in the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans is the stuff of motorsport legend. Facing stern opposition from works Ferrari and Porsche entries, plus a team of Ecurie Ecosse Jaguars, the David Brown Racing Aston Martin DBR1s fought valiantly to score a famous 1-2 finish in a masterful display of pace, reliability and teamwork.

Since described by Sir Stirling Moss - who helped Aston Martin win the 1959 World Sportscar Championship - as ‘the most important Aston Martin ever produced’, the DBR1 has deservedly attained iconic status. Just five were built between 1956 and 1959, making it one of the rarest Aston Martins ever, and when one last went to auction (at Monterey in 2017) it set a new world record as the most valuable British-made car ever with a sale price of £17.5m ($22.5m).

Immediately identifiable by its timelessly beautiful Aston Martin Racing Green paintwork, the DBS 59 features extensive use of gloss finish Carbon Fibre, most strikingly on the roof, roof strake and painted bonnet louvres. A classic combination of Obsidian Black and Chestnut Tan leather is used throughout the interior, together with fabric inspired by the DBR1 seat material used to trim the ‘DBS 59’s’ seat backs and door inserts. Bronze detailing is strategically deployed around the exterior and interior, with the front grille surround, ‘Superleggera’ bonnet script, rear Aston Martin script and Q Fender Badge amongst the items painted.

Additional Q by Aston Martin detailing include bespoke Saddle Leather Helmet Pods in the rear compartment to hold special ‘DBS 59’ crash helmets, race suits and gloves, and a bespoke ‘DBS 59’ logo embroidered in the seat headrests. Each of the ‘DBS 59s’ will be identifiable by a small painted white roundel adjacent to the side strakes, with each car numbered from 1-24.

Further accessories include period blue race overalls complete with Aston Martin and ‘DBS 59’ logos; replica string-backed racing gloves modeled on those worn by 1959 Le Mans-winning driver Caroll Shelby; replica 1959 race helmet; bespoke 2-piece luggage set to match interior trim; bespoke car cover in Aston Martin Racing Green and featuring white roundels with specific edition number.

The DBR1’s proud genetic legacy is very much evident in the 2018 DBS Superleggera. The fastest and most powerful series production model in Aston Martin’s multi-award winning range, this 211mph, 715bhp Super GT is an inspired combination of imperious performance and impeccable style. Having received the attention of Q by Aston Martin: Commission it is a truly covetable car; one aimed at those who appreciate the lasting significance of DBR1’s historic victory and world-beating contemporary performance and handling of the DBS Superleggera.

Speaking of the ‘DBS 59’, Aston Martin Vice-President and Chief Marketing Officer, Simon Sproule said: “When Aston Martin Cambridge expressed a desire to create a limited run of DBS Superleggeras inspired by the DBR1’s famous Le Mans victory we knew it had to be something special. The soft metallic hue of the Aston Martin Racing Green paintwork is classy and timelessly beautiful; the level of thought and detailing is exceptional. My favourite element on the ‘DBS 59’ are the seat backs that feature fabric inspired by the DBR1 seat material, but there are countless touches that will intrigue and delight”.

The ‘DBS 59’ limited edition is the fourth Q by Aston Martin: Commission from Aston Martin Cambridge, following on from the success of last year's Red Arrows Edition Vanquish S, and the earlier success of V12 Vantage S Spitfire 80 Edition, marking 80 years of the Supermarine Spitfire's first flight, and the Vantage S Blades Edition, developed in collaboration with the Blades Aerobatic Display Team.

‘DBS 59s’ 1 through 24 are available to order now from Aston Martin Cambridge. To place your order please contact Simon Lane at simon.lane@jardinemotors.co.uk.

Collection of 24 ‘DBS 59’ special editions