MINIs on the Dragon (MOTD) is the largest annual grassroots MINI Cooper event in the US. Started in 2003. Each year 600-800 people attend the 4 day event based at Fontana Village in Robbinsville NC. The event originated ostensibly as a driving tour of the infamous ‘Tail of the Dragon’, but these days the people have camaraderie have more to do with the event than the Dragon does.

Registration will open on Friday January 17th 2025 – 9:00am EST.
Day Drives will Open on Saturday February 15th 2025 – 9:00am EST.

Website for event: https://www.minisonthedragon.com

The legendary vehicle is currently being restored at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu in Hampshire, England. The aim of the restoration campaign is to return the British engineering icon to Daytona Beach, Florida, in 2027, marking 100 years since it broke the 200mph Land Speed Record in 1927. Significant milestones in its restoration have been met including having the colossal 22.4 litre Matabele V12 aero engine roar to life once again.

The process of restoring a one-off car like this takes real dedication. There is no pattern to be followed. It takes time and research, effort and expertise. We are thrilled to know that the museum intends to send the restored car to Pebble Beach, to share with enthusiasts here.
— Pebble Beach Concours Chairman Sandra Button

Full restoration of the revolutionary Sunbeam 1000hp will see the two of the marque’s powerful aero engines placed at the fore and aft of the vehicle one again. The car was a turning point in automotive race for speed – driving it on the smooth sands of Daytona Beach on March 29, 1927, Harry Segrave recorded a speed of 203.79 mph.

Lord Montagu of Beaulieu says…

This car has been at Beaulieu since before I was born and feels like a member of the family, but one I never expected to run again. Watching the restoration take place has been fascinating as it has revealed so much I never knew about the car. It will be quite a thrill to have the car at Pebble Beach and a great opportunity for us to wave the flag for the National Motor Museum!

The car’s restoration is now well underway. The rear engine has already been disassembled, re-machined, restored, and refitted into the frame—and it was first fired up before an adoring crowd at the Beaulieu International Autojumble in early September. The museum team is now focused on the front engine. When that, too, is back together and in place, the bodywork, which has already been restored, will be reinstalled.

Jon Murden, Chief Executive of the National Motor Museum says,

Over the last three and a half years, the Museum’s team have worked tirelessly to make the mighty Sunbeam 1000 HP roar again, with help from a wide range of supporters, stakeholders and heritage engineering specialists. Having experienced the first of the cars remarkable engines running once more, we are all now thrilled at the prospect of the Sunbeam returning to the United States for the first time in a century.

John, the second Baron Montagu of Beaulieu, was a motoring pioneer, who campaigned for the rights of early motorists. In the 1950s, his son Edward founded what is now the National Motor Museum to honor him, and that museum shares a long history with the Pebble Beach Concours. Edward first showed a car—his 1913 Alfonso Hispano-Suiza—at Pebble Beach in 1981, and the following year, he donated the Montagu of Beaulieu Trophy, which the Concours presents annually to the best British car shown there. And Ralph, the current Lord Montagu attended the Concours this year.

Learn more about this magnificent Sunbeam …

To learn more about the National Motor Museum and its efforts to restore the Sunbeam 1000 HP, go to nationalmotormuseum.org.uk.

The 75th Pebble Beach Concours will take place on August 16, 2026, and will feature a wide selection of cars, ranging from early American Speedsters to Ferraris and Japanese race cars. The latest concepts will also be on display. Tickets go on sale later this month. For more information, go to pebblebeachconcours.net.

The National Motor Museum, a registered charity, is to capitalize on the Sunbeam’s presence in the US to garner support for its role in telling the story of Britain’s automotive heritage.  If funding is secured, the Sunbeam 1000hp will also visit esteemed automobile museums in the USA, as well as Daytona, before heading back to Britain.

Those wishing to follow progress of the Sunbeam 1000hp restoration and journey can visit the Museum’s website:  https://nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/sunbeam-1000hp-restoration-campaign/

The 2025 Festival is already set to be the biggest and best yet, with a live recording of the Smith and Sniff podcast, a host of exciting speakers and great live entertainment for all the family. There will also be a line-up of special guests, wonderful food and specially selected exhibitors, all with a love of the unexceptional.

Festival organisers are excited to announce another very special FOTU guest, the British Motor Museum. Working with the Museum team, Hagerty has selected six exceptionally unexceptional cars from their vast collection on display at the museum in Gaydon. Three of the cars fit the FOTU vibe perfectly, being well preserved forgotten cars with a great story. The other three are extremely rare prototypes from the British Leyland era that may well have been FOTU stars, had they made it to production.

Stephen Laing, Head of Collections and Engagement at the British Motor Museum, said, “Britain’s motor industry has definitely created many cars that today would be regarded as unexceptional. The Museum proudly exhibits not just the cars that were regular family transport in the 1970s, 80s and 90s, but also the stories behind them and we are very excited to be bringing some of them to the Festival of the Unexceptional.”

1969 Mini 9X hatchback prototype – At the end of the sixties, the designer of the iconic Mini, Alec Issigonis considered a new small car to replace it. He wanted room for four adults and luggage, with competitive specification and a price that was 5% below the Mini price at the time.

The outcome was a squared-off, two-door, hatchback, a new ‘9X’ 850cc engine and transmission as well as a revised specification and greater ease of servicing. The engine alone had an impressive 40% weight saving over the then current Mini.

Hydrolastic suspension gave way to a new components including vertical struts and independent rear suspension via torsion bars. The new body shape offered increased passenger and luggage space. However, unlike his previous designs, Issigonis’ new hatch did not pass the concept stage as British Leyland management were unresponsive to his ideas. It is regarded by many as a missed opportunity, as European manufacturers introduced their own hatchback cars only a few years later.

1981 British Leyland ECV3 (energy conservation vehicle) – British Leyland merged its individual research divisions into a new department – BL Technology Ltd. – based at the Gaydon airfield site which it had recently acquired. BL Technology was headed up by renowned engineer, Spen King and one of his first projects was to look at energy efficient vehicles for the future.

Energy Conservation Vehicle 2 or ECV2 was based on a modified ADO88 prototype, a forerunner of the Metro. It was rather clumsy in appearance; nevertheless, ECV2 managed an impressive 60 mpg (4.7 l/100km) in 1981.

ECV3 was a more serious attempt, featuring a structural aluminium frame clad in unstressed plastic panels and bonded windows, making it extremely light for a car of its class. The aerodynamic body gave a very low drag coefficient of 0.24Cd. It might have been all about efficiency, but in the spirit of the Mini, there was also plenty of room inside for four adults.

The concept was powered by a new one-litre, three-cylinder, fuel-injected, single overhead camshaft engine. Capable of 115 mph, it could deliver an astounding average fuel economy of more than 100 mpg (just 2.8 l/100km). ECV3 was revolutionary, and many of its features made their way into car technology in the years to come. 

1975 Triumph SD2 prototype – This is the only surviving prototype of the SD2, a design that was once scheduled to replace the Triumph Dolomite. Although it bears some resemblance to the Rover SD1, both cars being the work of David Bache’s studio team, it has a style uniquely its own.

Proposed engines were the Triumph 1500cc, the BL O-series single overhead camshaft in 1700cc or 2000cc form and, at the top of the range, a fuel-injected version of the Dolomite Sprint two-litre engine with the four-valve head. Despite the badge on the front grille, this SD2 prototype carries the Sprint unit.

British Leyland’s financial state in the late 1970s was poor, and a government report had recommended drastic rationalisation. As the project progressed, it became evident that the considerable investment required to put the SD2 into production was out of the question. Instead, Triumph’s history took a different turn, and the Dolomite was replaced by a BL-Honda collaboration that emerged in 1981 as the Triumph Acclaim.

1979 Honda Prelude – Launched in Japan late in 1978, the Prelude was Honda’s response to the successful Toyota Celica coupé. The Prelude was a very well-appointed little coupé, but this particular example also carries some significant British motor industry history.

In 1979, when British Leyland’s chief Sir Michael Edwardes signed a deal with Mr Kawashima to start a partnership with Honda, he was gifted this Prelude. Sadly, after time the Honda became an engineering runabout around Longbridge for many years and ended up in a poor state. Since being saved by the British Motor Museum it has been given a new lease of life and the Prelude has gone on to become a true stalwart of FOTU culture. 

1997 Toyota Avensis – Built alongside the Toyota Corolla at the British-based manufacturing facility at Burnaston in Derbyshire, the Avensis first went on sale in January 1997.

Despite being called the British-built answer to Ford’s Mondeo, the Avensis didn’t manage to achieve the expected level of fleet sales enjoyed by its competitors.

The Museum will be bringing one of the first Avensis models to be produced at Toyota’s Derby factory, one which benefited from a thorough restoration prior to being donated to the Museum.

1989 Vauxhall Nova Merit saloon – The Nova replaced the aging Chevette and became a consistent top ten seller through the eighties, before being replaced by the Corsa.

This 1.2-litre, four-door saloon Merit, which denotes the most basic trim level and is a rare survivor. It was donated to the Museum in 2025 after being in the same family ownership from new but had not been used for more than twenty years and kept outside. The car is currently undergoing the first steps in its restoration by the Museum workshop team, ahead of being shown at the 2025 Festival of the Unexceptional.

Fans of the rare prototypes mentioned above will be able to enjoy a live stage talk between Stephen Laing from the British Motor Museum and self-confessed BL geek Richard Porter. If you love obscure BL facts, this is a FOTU stage show you won’t want to miss.

Mark Roper, Managing Director of classic vehicle insurer Hagerty UK, said, “These cars will be a real treat for lovers of unexceptional cars, most never seen outside of the British Motor Museum. These great cars are the latest attraction added of many, making this our biggest and best Festival yet.“

Tickets for the 2025 Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional are on sale now, giving visitors full access to all of what FOTU has to offer. Entry is free for children under 15 and all tickets include the opportunity to watch a live recording of the Smith & Sniff podcast.

Three separate vehicle programmes are currently being evaluated, with physical prototypes already in development. Together, they span classic Marcos models and all-new cars, for both road and track.

Project #1 is a faithful reimagining of a much-loved Marcos model with a recognisable silhouette but a contemporary platform and drivetrain. It’s being used to test new in-house capabilities, but is being developed for possible track use. The first evolution of the prototype has already run.

Project #2 is an all-new vehicle with the potential for both road and track. A complete crash-tested and homologated rolling chassis has been engineered and built, and is undergoing further evaluation. The car will owe nothing to legacy Marcos models but will honor the brand ethos of lightweight, simplicity, and seat-of-the-pants handling.

Project #3 is for continuation cars. With ownership of the original body moulds, manufacturing tooling and jigs for almost every Marcos model produced since the company’s inception over 65 years ago, Marcos Motor Company can produce faithful contemporary versions. And, with ownership of the manufacturing and brand rights, any continuation car will be authentically and officially Marcos, down to the iconic logo marque.

Marcos Motor Company will continue to provide its Marcos Heritage Spares genuine parts, servicing, maintenance, and repairs to existing customers. This will be benefit from the wider expertise and facilities of the Marcos Motor Company group of businesses. Marcos will develop its own performance upgrades, including tuning from the group’s existing engine specialist unit.

“Marcos is a much-loved British sports car brand,” says owner and chairman Howard Nash. “It has a wonderful history but also an ethos of simplicity for raw, driver-focused handling. It’s an analogue experience you can’t get from large car manufacturers and supercar brands, and one which I think enthusiasts hanker after today.

“We want to honour that original ethos while being forward-looking too, giving Marcos a new, younger audience, as well as bringing the brand back for those who grew up with it.”

Nash is a businessman with an automotive and motorsport engineering background. He bought Marcos in 2022, having been a director of the business since 2021. He is chairman of Automotive Vision, which Marcos Motor Company sits under, along with historic entities Marcos Engineering Ltd, Marcos Sales Ltd and Marcos Heritage Spares Ltd – the one-stop shop for existing owners which has traded continuously for over 25 years. In addition the group contains a century-old automotive business currently focused on body and paint, and a long-established engine restoration and tuning business.

Marcos Highlights
Like its cars, the history of the Marcos brand is of punching well above its weight. It is peppered with firsts, remarkable achievements and famous names.

• Early cars were raced by future F1 world champion Jackie Stewart, F1 driver and team owner Jackie Oliver, and F1 driver and multiple Le Mans winner Derek Bell
• The cars were developed with know-how from the DeHavilland Mosquito fighter-bomber
• They were the world’s first monocoque chassis cars – setting the standard for modern race-car design
• The Mini Marcos lapped the entire field on its debut and was the highest-place British finisher in the 1966 Le Mans race
• It set four land speed records for 1600cc cars – which it still holds
• The Marcos GT was bought by 1960s and 1970s pop stars including Rod Stewart, the Walker Brothers, Marmalade and Paul Jones of Manfred Mann, and was chosen as an alternative to the Volvo P1800 for Roger Moore in The Saint
• In the late 1970s a GT launched the career of F1 driver Dr Jonathan Palmer
• Evolutions of the GT won British and European GT series titles in the 1990s and 2000s
• The 1998 Mantis GT was Britain’s first 500bhp road car, ensuring that Marcos continued to attracting celebrity owners including Maxi Jazz of Faithless
• Celebrity car collector Jay Leno recently drove the GT in his Jay Leno’s Garage series, calling it “one of the prettiest and most unusual sports cars of all time.”

Note: Press release courtesy of Marcos Motor Company Ltd.

Envisioned and created by Carl Gotham, Advanced Design Director, SAIC Design Advanced London, and his design colleagues at the company’s Advanced Design Studio in London, EXE181 pays tribute to the original EX181 ‘roaring raindrop MG’ land speed record car which flew across the famous Bonneville Salt Flats in the late 1950s and was piloted by men like the British racing legend Sir Stirling Moss who reached 246mph in 1957. Two years later, America’s Phil Hill would improve the record by achieving 257mph.

Carl Gotham and his team imagined a potential MG land speed record challenger of the future, propelled by Kilowatts and rotors rather than fossil fuels and pistons, whilst skilfully retaining many of the signature design features of the first MG.

The result is a stunning concept vehicle which, according to the iF commendation, is a study of style, innovation, and efficiency and which acts as an ambassador for the next chapter of MG. The same talented design team, based in Marylebone, played a leading role in the development of the acclaimed MG Cyberster, a two-seat convertible EV.

“It was a unique opportunity for our designers,” comments Carl Gotham.

“We wanted to celebrate MG’s remarkable past as a daring and innovative sports car manufacturer that pushed boundaries, but with the extra and exciting brief to work with the most advanced materials and technology and visualise an all-electric MG land speed record car of the future. Whilst always a pure concept vehicle devised to excite, we also designed with a purpose which included running a series of aerodynamic tests and keeping the single-seater cockpit.”

There was a further iF Design Award in the User Experience category for the Rising OS Intelligent Cockpit System Design. SAIC Motor R&D Innovation Headquarters provided a compelling glimpse into the future of passenger mobility with an advanced HMI system that utilizes system algorithms to enable a greater range of more detailed, customized permissions for drivers and passengers, supporting safety, comfort, and personal driving preferences. As a SAIC Motor brand, MG is a potential beneficiary of this advanced R&D innovation and design.

Note: Press release courtesy of MG Motor Limited UK.

The culmination of over six years’ work and investment, the completion of the first AC Cobra GT Roadster is a watershed moment for a company with a legacy that stretches back to 1901. Despite the challenges facing small-volume sports car manufacturers today, AC Cars’ perseverance has seen it make steady progress towards the production and delivery of its first client vehicles.

Extremely light and boasting exceptional torsional rigidity, the AC Cobra GT Roadster’s highly advanced design was developed with an open-top car in mind from the outset. With a unique aluminium spaceframe chassis, a full carbon-fibre body and sonorous 5.0-litre V8 engine, the new AC Cobra GT Roadster is the true successor to the legendary car born in the 1960s. It represents a level of performance and exclusivity unheard of in any previous iteration of the AC Cobra.

Speaking of the news, David Conza, CEO of AC Cars, said: “This is a day to remember, and the completion of the first production AC Cobra GT Roadsters is a monumental achievement. I’m immensely proud of what the company has achieved and the continued support and enthusiasm that our clients have shown.”

The first client cars for delivery will be the Edition 63 vehicles, marking the AC Cobra’s class win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1963. Finished in a unique AC Blue colour combination, these full specification vehicles marked a new chapter in the legendary AC Cobra name.

The AC Cobra GT range

AC Cars is committed to a multi-year, multi-million-euro investment sustained in order to produce unique sports cars that are both beautiful and usable. Joining the AC Cobra GT Roadster, the AC Cobra GT Coupe incorporates the unmistakable aesthetic with a contemporary coupe profile to provide a brand-new model as the company continues to expand its appeal to discerning buyers. Undeniably a member of the AC Cobra family, the GT Coupe retains key touchpoints from the Roadster but is also inspired by the infamous AC A98 coupe, which competed in the 1964 Le Mans race.

Designed to be fully road-legal, available in both left- and right-hand drive, and incorporating modern safety features, every aspect of the car, from styling to ergonomics, has been carefully considered. Significantly larger than the original AC Cobra, the new AC Cobra GTs catch up on 50 years of design evolution. Thoroughly modern ergonomics means the cars’ cabins accommodate drivers well over six feet tall, while the contemporary drivetrain and control technologies validate their grand tourer credentials. Available to clients worldwide, the AC Cobra GTs provide a focused driving experience in a highly limited-production vehicle.

About AC Cars

The Weller Brothers established what is now Britain’s oldest vehicle manufacturer in 1901, producing cars and motorbikes from their workshop in West Norwood, London. The nascent company produced its first vehicle in 1903, but the Autocarrier was introduced a year later (from which the name AC was later derived). This was the first three-wheel commercial delivery vehicle and proved an instant success.

However, the AC Ace cemented the company’s status following its launch in 1953. With an aluminium body designed and built by Eric George Gray, it gained the respect of racing enthusiasts for its everyday practicality and pace. This was the car that would evolve to incorporate the Ford V8 and become the legendary AC Cobra.

Over the years, the AC Cobra has endured, with its unmistakable shape and unique design. With production limited and every car built to an exacting standard, it remains reserved for exclusive clientele.

With its own facilities in the UK and Germany, AC Cars is working with leading industry suppliers for design and development, and construction, and the AC Cobra GT range heralds a new era in the production of the company’s vehicles. In addition to its Donington HQ and facility on the south coast, AC Cars will continue to expand its development and production capabilities in the UK and Europe.

Note: Press release courtesy of AC Cars.

This video contains highlights and some interviews with MG Legends such as Ron Gammons and Roger Enever, and the club’s Chairman Lorraine Noble Thompson.

00:05 – Introduction
00:30 – Opening Montage
01:30 – Interview with Ron Gammons
06:53 – BRDC Gold Star/Gold Medal Awards
07:25 – Interview with Roger Enever
09:56 – Interview with David Allison, MG Motor UK
16:55 – Speech – Lorraine Noble-Thompson, Chairman, MGCC
24:37 – Speech – Ron Gammons
37:23 – Speech – David Allison, MG Motor UK
43:49 – Speech – Neil Brant, Vice-chairman, MGCC
47:57 – Reflection on the day
49:05 – Close

Note: Video courtesy of The MG Car Club, Ltd.

Nürburg. It is one of the most spectacular events on the racing calendar: the 24 Hours Race at the Nürburgring enters its 53rd round in 2025. Around 130 racing cars compete in various classes on one of the longest racetracks in the world. 24 hours, around the clock. MINI John Cooper Works, together with the Bulldog Racing Team, is once again bringing a racing car to the starting line after last year’s brilliant class victory – and after intensive preparations, is ready for the ultimate endurance test on the 25.378 kilometre long circuit of the ‘Green Hell’.

MINI JCW x Deus: On the starting line with an exclusive livery.
For this year’s 24-hour race, the high-performance focus of MINI John Cooper Works will be combined with the passion and craftsmanship of Deus Ex Machina: At the starting line, the MINI John Cooper Works race car will cause a stir and be the first highlight of the race with a specially designed livery by Deus Ex Machina.

The racing car is equipped with original MINI John Cooper Works accessories, such as the JCW roof edge spoiler attachment, sporty JCW front, side skirts and rear winglets as well as the MINI JCW trim for the C-pillar. The aerodynamic and exterior components, which are also available for the standard vehicle, create a maximum racing feeling and give the vehicle an individual and high-quality appearance. The exclusive components in high-gloss black and the MINI JCW tow strip complement the consistent look of the MINI JCW x Deus racing car.

The fact that MINI John Cooper Works and the Bulldog Racing team can celebrate success together was impressively demonstrated last year: In 2024, the #317 MINI John Cooper Works Pro triumphed in the SP-3T class at the Nürburgring in the 24-hour race. Last year’s victory is just the latest chapter in MINI’s rich racing history – and is set to continue successfully in 2025.

Hundreds of thousands are expected at the race track.
As the enthusiasm, anticipation and excitement for the 24 Hours Race at the Nürburgring grows once again, John Cooper Works and Bulldog Racing are lining up to reignite the same excitement among fans and motorsport enthusiasts on the track. This year, well over 200,000 people will once again watch the classic race from the track.

Note: Press release courtesy of MINI UK.

The energy was palpable throughout the auction, with Lydia Fenet, Broad Arrow’s Principal Auctioneer, moderating spirited bidding battles on Friday and Saturday. Bidder registration was the highest for any Broad Arrow auction to date. Registrations increased 22 percent over the 2024 Amelia Auction, with 60 percent of bidders attending the auction in person. The auction also drew more than 15,000 viewers on Broad Arrow’s YouTube channel and was viewed by millions on Hagerty’s Samsung TV Plus and newly launched Tubi channels.

The top sale of the Amelia Auction was a revered, Ferrari Classiche-certified 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione, chassis number 1451 GT. The second of only eight aluminum-bodied Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competiziones, the Ferrari achieved a remarkable 5th overall, capturing a GT class podium at the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans with its first owner, Bob Grossman. It is the first California Spider equipped from the factory with the competition-specification, outside-plug Type 128 F engine, among numerous other competition features. Arguably the most significant 250 GT California Spider in existence, the car commanded a back-and-forth competition between a bidder on the phone and in the room before selling at a final $9,465,000 to the telephone bidder.

“We’re thrilled with the results from our third Amelia Auction,” said Barney Ruprecht, Senior Car Specialist and Vice-President of Auctions for Broad Arrow following the sale. “We presented a high-quality offering that saw frequent bidding competitions between bidders both in the room and over the phones and internet throughout the two days and across all categories of the market. The California Spider becomes the most valuable car Broad Arrow has ever sold, and the Miura is—significantly—the second most valuable example of the model ever sold at auction. We also saw the continued strength of the Porsche market with the sale of the 918 Spyder and numerous strong individual prices for exceptional 911s as we head into our Porsche Air|Water Auction next month in California.”

Beyond the Ferrari California Spider sale, the top 10 cars sold at Broad Arrow’s 2025 Amelia Auction are led by stand-out supercars from across the last 50 years of production, from an Arancia Orange 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV which attracted a considerable amount of attention before sellingat a final $4,460,000, to a 2018 Pagani Huayra Roadster at a strong $3,415,000. The list also includes post-war sports and racing legends and a million-dollar Classic-Era Auburn 851 Super-Charged “Boattail” Speedster, which sold for $1,011,500.

Broad Arrow Auctions Amelia 2025 – Top 10 Sales

Complete results from Broad Arrow’s 2025 Amelia Auction are available at broadarrowauctions.com. The auction house will continue its 2025 calendar with the Spring Memorabilia Online Auction, an outstanding sale of desirable motorsport memorabilia—offered entirely without reserve. The German-based auction features iconic helmets, most of which have been used in Formula One by well-known drivers such as Mika Häkkinen, Jean Alesi, Charles Leclerc, and more. The auction runs online from April 21 to May 4 at broadarrowauctions.com.

Broad Arrow’s next live auction is the second annual Porsche Air|Water Auction, set for April 26^th in partnership with the creators of Luftgekühlt. Held at the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, California, the single-day auction will once again feature approximately 50 desirable Porsches along with a selection of sought-after Porsche automobilia pieces. Interested consignors are encouraged to speak with a Broad Arrow car specialist about the limited remaining consignment opportunities for both the Porsche Air|Water and Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auctions. Additional information is available at broadarrowauctions.com.

NOTE: All prices are listed in USD and include buyer’s premium, which is equal to the sum of twelve percent (12%) of the first $250,000 of the Hammer Price and ten percent (10%) of the amount by which the Hammer Price exceeds $250,000 for all motor car lots.  For non-motor car lots, Buyer’s Premium is equal to twenty-five (25) percent of the Hammer Price. 

Note: Press release courtesy of Broad Arrow Auctions.

The first ‘Le Mans Hypercar’ (LMH) to be produced by Aston Martin, Valkyrie is the only car in IMSA’s premier GTP category derived from a road-legal hypercar. Its US debut, masterminded by the works Aston Martin THOR team at Sebring, continues an historic season for the British contender, which will become the first LMH car of any kind to compete in IMSA, and is the only such racer contesting both IMSA and the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), where it made its debut in Qatar last month.

Developed from the Valkyrie production car by Aston Martin and THOR, the competition version blends a race-optimised carbon fibre chassis with a modified 6.5-litre V12 powerplant that revs to 11,000rpm and produces over 1000bhp in standard form, but adheres to a strict 500kw (680bhp) power limit as per hypercar regulations.

Valkyrie positions Aston Martin in the top division of US sportscar racing for the first time since 2011; a season in which five outright victories and seven podiums were achieved in the American Le Mans Series.

The Aston Martin works driver roster for the single-car programme features a line-up brimming with international experience and success. Canadian Roman De Angelis, the 2022 IMSA GTD champion, and Ross Gunn (GBR), a regular race winner in the GTD and GTD Pro categories, will contest the rest of the IMSA season in the #23Valkyrie. Both are past winners of the Aston Martin Race Academy.

They are joined at Sebring – and for the season-ending Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta – by THOR regular Alex Riberas (ESP), whose full-time campaign in 2025 is racing Valkyrie in the FIA WEC, but who has a wealth of experience in IMSA and has been a GTD Pro race winner in each of the past three seasons.

Ross Gunn, driver #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie: “Sebring this year is a very important event for us, even more than normal, and it will be the first IMSA race for Valkyrie, which is incredibly exciting. Of course we are on a very steep learning trajectory right now, but everyone is working super-hard to bring as much performance as possible to the car. I’m really looking forward to getting out there. I think it’s going to be a huge challenge both physically and mentally because Sebring is always one of the toughest events, but it’s what we have trained hard for. It’s very exciting to have the V12 engine going around Sebring. It’s going to be an incredible weekend.”

Roman De Angelis, driver #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie: “I’m looking forward to heading to Sebring for the first IMSA race for the Valkyrie programme and the first race for my full-season campaign with Ross. I think we learned a lot as drivers and as a team from our FIA WEC debut in Qatar a few weeks ago and that will all help us to keep progressing. Sebring is such an iconic and unique event that I look forward to every year and to get to do it in the top class for the first time is something I could only have dreamed of a couple of years ago, so it’s definitely going to be a special weekend.”

Alex Riberas, driver #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie: “The 12 Hours of Sebring may be the highlight of the year for the Aston Martin Team THOR IMSA programme, marking the debut of the Aston Martin Valkyrie in North America. It’s also the first LMH car to race under IMSA’s regulations, which is a huge milestone for everyone involved in the project. One thing everyone knows about Sebring is that it’s very challenging. We know we are stepping into a big, big weekend for everybody. I’m really looking forward to being on an amazing track with such an amazing car.”

Ian James, Team Principal, Aston Martin THOR Team: “IMSA is where The Heart of Racing team has grown up and flourished into a championship winning organisation so to be joining the top class is a very special moment for all involved. To be bringing this incredible hypercar to the American race fans is a precious moment for us all. It’s a dream come true to be racing in the top class with a manufacturer programme with everyone involved. We obviously learned a lot in the race conditions on our debut in Qatar two weeks ago, and we always knew that would be an educational experience for us, but it is one that we drew a lot of confidence from, and of course every time we run now we’re taking on learnings and applying them to the next event. This only builds momentum, and I expect that to carry on through the season.”

Adam Carter, Aston Martin Head of Endurance Motorsport: “With Aston Martin returning to top-flight endurance competition in the US with such a breathtaking hypercar, the first of its kind to race in IMSA and the only one developed from a road car, this is clearly a landmark step for the Valkyrie programme. We all know the challenges Sebring offers, both as a venue and as a race, but these are important tests for Valkyrie and every mile builds data and understanding as we build on the car’s debut in Qatar. The car cuts a striking silhouette in its blue livery, and with its unique sound from the V12 6.5-litre engine, I am certain this car will win the hearts and minds of the American racing fans.”

In Other Non-Valkyrie News

While Valkyrie contests the GTP division, Aston Martin will also battle for victory in the GTD category as the latest version of the Vantage GT3 is fielded by former series champions The Heart of Racing (THOR) and by Van der Steur Racing.

Sharing the mechanical architecture of the ultra-luxury performance brand’s most focused sportscar, the Vantage GT3, which triumphed at last year’s 24 Hours of Spa, is built around Aston Martin’s proven bonded aluminium chassis and powered by its fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine.

Sebring was the scene of one of Aston Martin’s greatest successes in GT racing in North America as the DBR9 model claimed a stunning GT1 victory on the car’s race debut in 2005 driven by Darren Turner (GBR), David Brabham (AUS) and Stephane Ortelli (MCA). Eight further podium finishes since then in the race’s various GT classes – including four for Vantage since 2015 – have helped establish Aston Martin as one of Sebring’s outstanding GT racing marques.

Fresh from a GTD-class podium finish at January’s Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, IMSA’s opening round and its longest race, The Heart of Racing is tackling the GTD class with a distinguished line-up in its #27 Vantage.

The 2021 IMSA GTD title winner and 2023 European Le Mans Series GTE champion  Zacharie Robichon (CDN), is joined by Aston Martin THOR team WEC Valkyrie driver Tom Gamble (GBR) who returns to an event he contested with THOR in 2022. The roster is completed by FIA WEC LMGT3 podium finisher Casper Stevenson (GBR) who, like Robichon and Gamble, formed part of THOR’s Daytona podium-finishing line-up in January.

After finishing a competitive sixth in GTD on its series debut at Daytona, Van der Steur Racing continues its first season with the Vantage GT3 at Sebring. Aston Martin works driver Valentin Hasse Clot (FRA), the third winner of the Aston Martin Racing Academy to race an Aston Martin at Sebring, and the 2023 Le Mans Cup GT3 champion, joins Anthony McIntosh (USA) and Rory van der Steur (USA) in #19.

Sebring was the scene of the first global victory (on only its fourth start) for the latest Vantage GT4 one year ago and the victorious Rebel Rock Racing team is back with the same 2024 winning line-up of Frank DePew (USA) and Robin Liddell (GBR) to seek more success in Friday’s Alan Jay Automotive Network 120 – round two of the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge.

The Vantage GT4 claimed last year’s GS class Drivers’, Teams’ and Manufacturers’ crowns and Matt Plumb (USA) and Team TGM return to continue the defence of their titles, which began at Daytona. Plumb is partnered by Paul Holton (USA) while Hugh Plumb (USA) and team owner Ted Giovanis (USA) share the sister car. Van der Steur Racing’s Christine and Ben Sloss (both USA) look to build on the podium finish they scored in the bronze class at Daytona.

How to watch
The Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring will begin at 1010 local time (+5 Hours GMT) on Saturday, 15 March, 2025. It will be broadcast live globally on IMSA TV and on the IMSA YouTube channel and and via selected broadcasters at a national level. The Alan Jay Automotive Network 120 starts at 1410 local time on Friday, 14 March.

Note: Press release courtesy of Aston Martin Lagonda.

Published by Porter Press International, this is a detailed, often humorous account of how a master automotive designer helped Tom Walkinshaw to produce a road car that offered its lucky owners the chance to experience some of the sensations of the famous Le Mans-winning Group C Jaguars. Full of behind-the-scenes detail and anecdotes, it shows how this ground-breaking project produced the world’s first fully carbon-fiber road car.

Limited to 400 copies, all of which will be signed by Peter Stevens, JaguarSport XJR-15: A Personal History of the Legendary Supercar tells the full story of this remarkable project – from the early days of TWR and the Intercontinental Challenge race series that featured famous drivers such as Derek Warwick and David Brabham, all the way up to the XJR-15’s current standing in the classic-car world.

Key Points

• The personal design history and philosophy of Peter Stevens, from early influences and Lotus to the XJR-15, the McLaren F1, and beyond.
• An in-depth look at how Tom Walkinshaw and TWR took Jaguar back to the winner’s circle at the world’s most famous race – the Le Mans 24 Hours.
• How the team behind the XJR-15 broke new ground by creating a carbon-fiber road car inspired by the V12-engined Group C sports prototypes.
• The full story of the 1991 Intercontinental Challenge series that included races at Monaco, Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps.
• Reflections on the XJR-15’s current standing and how it has attracted a whole new enthusiast following in the 21st century.
• More than 270 color photographs and illustrations, plus contemporary sketches, press releases, newspaper articles, magazine stories, and internal documents.

The Author

Peter Stevens is one of the world’s best-known and most sought-after automotive designers and consultants. As a professional committed to design education, he lectures internationally and, until recently, was Visiting Professor at London’s Royal College of Art. He is renowned not only as the designer of the JaguarSport XJR-15, but also the acclaimed McLaren F1 road car, which remains extraordinarily influential. He has also worked with Subaru on Championship-winning rally cars, Mahindra on rural utility vehicles, and MG Rover on cars including the carbon fibre-bodied MG SV. He has worked for Formula 1 teams, with BMW on the Le Mans-winning 99LM, and with Lotus on their Excel, Esprit and Elan. He claims to still be as competitive as ever, driving his 1932 Ford hot-rod in numerous beach races. He was recently awarded the President’s Trophy by The Guild of Motoring Writers for, among other things, ‘Never feeling inhibited in what he says about design.’

Title: JaguarSport XJR-15
Author: Peter Stevens
Publisher: Porter Press
Size: 315mm x 270mm
Format: Jacketed Hardback
Pages: 240
Images: Over 270 images
ISBN: 978-1-913089-66-5
Publication date: March 2024
Price: Suggested at $191.00 _{(depending on currency exchange)}

At this time the Roadster Factory’s website remains down, but this post was made to their Facebook site:

Dear TRF Customer-

As you have probably heard by now, there was a fire on Christmas morning and our building and inventory were mostly destroyed. TRF will be closed for the month of January while we try to figure out where to go from here. We hope to reopen and we appreciate your patience in the meantime.

TRF is grateful for the outpouring of support received from suppliers, customers, friends, family, local community members and even strangers. We are especially grateful to the 14+ companies of firefighters who sacrificed their Christmas to extinguish the blaze. Thankfully no one was hurt.

Here are some answers to questions you might have.

1) We are going to consider all open orders canceled at this time. If you have something on back order that you still need, please drop us an email (trfbackorders@gmail.com) to see about reinstating the order. Keep in mind backorders are not charged until they are shipped. So if you had something on backorder, you probably were not charged for it.

2) If you feel you have a credit with TRF, please drop us an email (trfbackorders@gmail.com). Many of our records have been destroyed, but we should be able to verify credits if you bring them to our attention. If you have a gift certificate you no longer want, please get in touch and we will sort it out. Please be patient, we will do our best to get back to you by the end of January.

3) If you have any other questions or concerns, please drop us an email (trfbackorders@gmail.com) and we will do our best to get back to you quickly.

4) If you would like to help, please consider making a donation to the Armagh Fire Department: https://www.gofundme.com/…/the-roadster-factory…

I will be back in touch soon.

best,
Albert
TRF

According to Indiana County 911, Armagh and East Wheatfield Township, Clyde, Brush Valley, New Florence, Seward, Bolivar fire departments, and Citizens EMS Dispatch were dispatched on the first alarm that was called in at 1 a.m. Just minutes later, Jackson Township, Nanty Glo, Vintondale, West Taylor Township, Fairfield Township, and Blairsville fire departments were called to the scene. The dispatch calls continued from 2 a.m. until around 5 a.m., reportedly adding The Black Lick Fire Department, Homer City Fire Department, Middle Taylor Township Fire Department, Cherryhill Township, and Pine Township fire departments to the scene.

By the time the sun rose on Christmas morning, a gutted brick structure and smoldering ruins were what remained. Nearly 12 hours after the emergency call was made, over a dozen fire companies and more than 100 firefighters were still working at the scene on the 300 block of Killen Road in Indiana County dousing the debris.

The total vehicle loss count is unknown. A few antique cars were reportedly rescued from the showroom by firefighters before the fire took over and are seen parked outside on the lawn on the CBS Pittsburgh news report. At least two more cars were burned and trapped under rubble near the rear of the burned building. Numerous engine blocks, and boxes full of car parts, catalogs, and manuals were also destroyed.

Note: Portions of this story originally appeared in the Tribune-Democrat, Hemmings Motor News, The British Motor Trade Association, and other sites.

The Museum is now appealing for more support to get the restoration to the next step in the goal of hearing its engines roar again and raising £300k to restore the World Land Speed record car and take it to Daytona in the USA for the centenary of its record-breaking 200 mph attempt in 2027.

Visitors to Beaulieu can currently see the exposed chassis on show in the National Motor Museum, and on the 27^th of January, a special talk at Beaulieu will see the Museum’s Manager and Chief Engineer Doug Hill and Senior Engineer Ian Stanfield talk about the efforts to restore the impressive car.  The evening will have a special guest appearance from land speed record holder Richard Noble. Proceeds from the Transport Torque evening will go to the Sunbeam 1000hp restoration campaign.

The Sunbeam 1000hp Restoration Campaign was launched with Hampshire-based Brookspeed Automotive in March. To help raise the profile of the vehicle’s centenary celebrations and fundraising campaign – through individual donations and corporate sponsorship – there are plans to take it to Europe and on tour to motoring museums across America. Opportunities will also be offered for schools, colleges, and universities to get involved with STEM workshops and activities.

The Sunbeam’s two 22.5 liter engines, which each produced 435bhp, have not run since before World War II more than 80 years ago – after corrosion attacked internal workings. With painstaking rebuilding, using specialist knowledge and bespoke parts, National Motor Museum engineers will recapture the sounds, sights, and smells of this ground-breaking machine and help to preserve it for future generations.

Designed and built solely to break the 200mph barrier, this immensely powerful machine was driven by Major Henry Segrave to become the fastest car in the world.

The Museum’s Michelle Kirwan says, “Funds are now needed to gear up a level to complete the second engine build and ultimately the full restoration. Donations for the Sunbeam 1000hp Restoration Campaign can be made online. Sponsors and corporate donors who would like to be associated with the campaign are urged to get in touch with the Museum’s Development team.”

Further information and a link to donate to the campaign is at https://nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/sunbeam-1000hp-restoration-campaign/ and tickets for the Restoring the Sunbeam 1000hp Transport Torque on the evening of the 27th of January are available at https://www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/restoring-land-speed-transport-torques/

To gain confidence in both the engineering and design of Bentley Blower Jnr, The Little Car Company will undertake a durability program exceeding 5,000 miles across three different continents. The mission started with a seasonal twist – the collection of a Christmas tree from the snowscape of Switzerland, for the joint Christmas party.

The durability program will include real-world driving and usage at different proving grounds before the start of production in 2024. The 85 percent scale recreation of the 1929 4½-litre Supercharged Bentley will be put through extensive testing, including seatbelts ensuring road legality for the EU L7e Type Approval.

The Bentley Blower Jnr is built around a 48V electric powertrain with a 15 kW (20 bhp) motor, meaning a top speed of 45 mph / 72 km/h in the UK and EU (25 mph / 40 km/h in the USA due to legislation) and an expected range of around 65 miles, with tandem seating for two adults.

Crafted entirely by hand, from authentic materials to match the original, the Bentley Blower Jnr consists of over 700 parts. The bodywork is constructed in two sections, and while the rear body structure is created in carbon fiber rather than being an ash frame, it’s covered in impregnated fabric, just as the original. The bonnet, with its multiple cooling louvers, is hand-crafted in aluminum using traditional techniques and fastened with beautiful leather buckled bonnet straps.

The Bentley Blower Jnr includes an authentic specification chassis utilizing leaf springs and scaled-down period-correct friction dampers. Brembo brakes at the front and drums at the rear,  provide all of the stopping power necessary. The electric motor is mounted across the rear axle, while the batteries and drive electronics are all housed in a hidden undertray.

Bringing the legendary 1930s period car to life in modern times has presented certain challenges, specifically lighting, occupant restraints, and the reduction of non-compliant edges. However, there are now five ‘experimental’ Bentley Blower Jnrs undertaking activities globally for durability and retailer activations, with a special homage Bentley Blower Jnr in the making.

After seeing social media channels filling up with images of supercars carrying Christmas trees, Bentley and The Little Car Company have taken the opportunity to have their 85 percent scale festive celebrations. The Bentley Blower Jnr proves to be the perfect car for easy pine transportation ahead of the office Christmas party.

Note: Story and images courtesy of Bentley Motor Car Company.

MG sold 45,080 cars between January and October this year, marking a 64.4% increase in sales year on year. Motor Trader also commended the company for further strengthening its product line-up and offering some of the most competitively priced electric vehicles available in the UK, with the MG4 SE Standard Range available from just £25,495.

The all-electric MG4 models, launched earlier in the year, have also been extensively praised by Motor Trader for generous equipment levels, practicality, and driver engagement.

The Motor Trader Industry Awards – which took place at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London yesterday evening – is now in its 32nd year and has grown to become the most prestigious and coveted awards ceremony in the UK motor retail industry, recognizing the highest levels of professionalism and excellence in the sector. The judging panel commented:

MG Motor has a range of well-priced EV models which are achieving strong sales in the UK. The franchise is attractive to a growing number of dealers from a business perspective, performing strongly in successive dealer surveys in terms of current and future profitability. Dealers rate the franchise highly on the levels of capital investment required and think its standards are fair and reasonable.

Receiving the award, Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK, said:

We have made significant steps to make EV ownership far more affordable and deliver cars that are enjoyable to own and drive, so we’re delighted this has been recognised. Receiving such positive feedback from Motor Trader and the industry professionals who do so much to support us is an encouraging sign that MG is heading in the right direction.

Motor Trader provides the latest news, views, and analysis on Britain’s dynamic car retailing sector and over the course of the year produces unique industry surveys identifying the Top 200 Franchised Dealers, Top 75 Independent Retailers, Top 75 Independent Garages, and Top 100 Bodyshops. It has been reporting on this fast-changing market for over 100 years and is read by senior management in franchised and independent dealers as well as car manufacturers, repair garages, bodyshops, and the aftermarket sector.

Note: Press release courtesy of MG Motor UK.

Presenting in Snowberry ‘Police’ White with a black interior, it is number one of 27 examples purchased by the Liverpool and Bootle Police Force and as such is recognizable by the SKD number plates, 200G being the first one.

It has had a full engine rebuild and gearbox overhaul and comes with the tell-tale signs of the decommissioning including the roof where the central light box was fitted and holes under the dash where the Police radio was mounted. It comes from a very long-term ownership and is supplied with its Heritage Certificate showing it to be a matching numbers car, with just three keepers in total on the V5. Estimated at £28,000 – £32,000.

Another Mini with a good story is this ‘Lous Vuitton’ Mini ready-wrapped for Christmas. It would make the ideal Christmas present that could almost fit under the tree.

Attractively and expensively wrapped with a unique ‘Louis Vuitton’ finish, it comes complete with a selection of LV bags, boxes, and keyrings.

Purchased in 1969 by 60-year-old Mrs. Millie Properjohns who learned to drive. When she finally gave up driving at the age of 98 the car went into dry storage with less than 33,000 miles on the clock.

In 2015, the Mini was chosen by Lancaster Insurance to be restored by the MG Owners Club for an eventual charity auction. This high-profile, engine-out restoration was extensively documented by Classics Monthly in 2016. Superbly refinished in its original Tartan Red and the original matching interior reinstated with just 33,202 miles (at the time of cataloging) is corroborated by the original Service Book and known history.

A fabulous, British Racing Green, MINI Cooper that’s been refurbished, rejuvenated, and re-worked by HRRCC – number four of only ten bespoke HRRCC (Howard Road & Race Car Company) R50s to be built.

HRRCC signature touches include headrest emblems, HRRCC logo on the gear knob, brushed-alloy passenger footrest, HRRCC Sports three-spoke steering wheel, half-leather Sports seats, and Cooper S brushed-alloy pedals.

This very smart little Morris Mini Traveller in Almond Green has been carefully restored to the tune of £20,000 – with great attention to detail and comes to auction with a late 1950s/early 1960s Sirram four-person picnic set. Pure nostalgia – estimated at £15,000 – £18,000.

The Morris Mini Travellers were two-door estate cars with double, barn-style rear doors built on a slightly longer chassis. The odometer shows just 18,869 miles which could well be correct but

An incredible Mini Custom painted in BMW Long Beach Blue metallic with a complete handmade metal bodykit and carbon roof and mirrors. This car cost over £30,000 to build, with documented receipts for the work and a photographic record accompanying the car. Corbeau bucket seats, a color-matched cage, TRS harnesses, drilled door furniture, and countless other features. With new suspension and just 80 miles since its rebuild with a new MOT until October 2023, issued with no advisories.

Mini Mayfair Custom – finished in gleaming Inca Yellow, this tastefully customized Mini Mayfair is a veritable ray of sunshine.

This lovely little car has had over £7,000 invested during its rebuild and basically every component on the car is either new or reconditioned. The upgrades include uprated ignition, a new starter motor, a new battery, inertia reel seat belts, a period steering wheel, phone charging USB, digital speedo, new front ball joints, drive shaft oil seals, and a new oil-filled performance coil.

Featured in Mini Magazine in April 2017, in near concours condition it runs and drives ‘perfectly’ and amazingly is on offer at No Reserve.

More information about all these marvelous Minis, along with over 140 additional vehicles coming to auction can be found online at www.classiccarauctions.co.uk. The Classic Car Christmas Auction takes place at the Warwickshire Event Centre on Saturday 10th December starting at 10.30 am, with viewing available from 10 am to 5 pm on Thursday 8th, and Friday 9th December. Come along for mulled wine, mince pies, and the opportunity to purchase a dream car in time for Christmas.

CCA is the sister company of Silverstone Auctions and caters to ‘Everyman Classics’.

The production car “will be a game-changer in terms of perception of the brand,” MG UK commercial director Guy Pigounakis told Autocar at a recent event. The car will be available in either two-wheel drive – most likely rear-wheel drive – or as a “very high-performance” all-wheel-drive dual-motor version.

The car will become a halo model sitting above the rest of MG’s line-up. UK executives had to rethink its positioning when the first full-scale prototype of the production car arrived from China in advance of the reveal originally planned for this month. “Right up to when the model was arriving we were looking at it as a natural successor to the MGF. It’s completely not. It’s in a completely different sector of the market,” said Pigounakis, without revealing pricing.

The sports car, first previewed by the 2021 MG Cyberster concept and known internally as ‘Project E’, was due to be unveiled this month at the Guangzhou motor show but has been put back to next year after concerns the November event would be postponed or canceled due to Covid disruption.

The car was teased in a video posted to social media in August that showed off the roadster’s sleek, long-nosed silhouette, electric folding canvas roof, yoke steering wheel, two-tone sports seats, and distinctive LED headlights. Other definitive design cues visible at this early stage include a subtle ‘ducktail’ rear spoiler and a rear lighting design modeled on the Union Jack – a nod to MG’s British roots.

Tellingly, MG captioned the video ‘return of the legend’, which strongly suggests the final production car will resurrect a sporting nameplate from the brand’s illustrious past. Earlier this year, the brand trademarked the name ‘MG C EV’, which references the MGC which was a lesser-known, straight-six-powered version of the brand-defining MGB from the late 1960s. The two-seat electric sports car was previewed as an outlandish concept in 2021, which company bosses said was given the green light for production after receiving more than 5000 expressions of interest from potential buyers.

While the production car’s silhouette bears a visual relation to that earlier concept, it’s all changed elsewhere, with a total redesign bringing the car into line with MG’s production models and rendering it compliant with global homologation rules. It sits higher than before, for example; the wheels are smaller and wrapped in chunkier tires; the headlights are now uncovered; and the gaping front grille panel has been swapped for what looks to be a subtler, decorative item, perhaps housing an array of sensors.

And, of course, there is no word at all about the MG Cyberster coming to the North American market. Or for that matter any cars of the MG range. We in the USA must wait, wish, and take driving vacations overseas.

Note: The majority of the contents of this article are courtesy of MG Owners Club.

The unique E-type made its debut alongside fifteen iconic Jaguars to feature in the Jubilee Pageant, including a selection of historically important Jaguar E-types, an all-electric I-PACE eTROPHY race car, and seven convertible Jaguars all carrying famous Dames. The customer, thrilled to participate, was joined by American dancer, model, and fashion designer, Eric Underwood in the passenger seat.

Jaguar Classic creates beautifully crafted E-types by restoring Series 1 models to their original specification. This bespoke example goes even further, showcasing the full breadth of personalization available from its state-of-the-art home in Coventry.

The one-off E-type was commissioned by a client who had specific requirements. He wanted a Roadster manufactured in the year he was born and finished to a bespoke specification. The team at Jaguar Classic set to work and tracked down a Series 1 E-type that was built just two days after the customer’s date of birth.

Over the following 12 months, the car underwent a complete rebuild, beginning with the bodywork. Finished in a unique deep metallic blue inspired by the blue of the Union Jack, the new blue, was exclusively mixed by the paint shop following numerous consultations and sample creations to craft the perfect hue over several months.

The bespoke interior features striking leather upholstery finished in a shade of red inspired by iconic British pillar boxes, and was hand finished using traditional methods at the in-house Jaguar Classic Works trim shop.

Bespoke Lead Engineer, Jaguar Classic, Stephen Hollis, said:

Being able to bring a customer’s vision for their dream E-type to life is hugely rewarding. The result is a complete one-off that showcases the full breadth of capabilities provided by the team at Jaguar Classic. With a colour scheme inspired by the Union Jack, I can’t think of a better place for it to make its first appearance than the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant. I am so excited to see it parade down The Mall.

With the body assembly and paintwork complete, the engineering team went to work refitting mechanical elements – including a host of enhancements. The original 4.2-liter straight-six was replaced by a larger 4.7-liter engine, delivering superior performance. It is optimized for road driving and married to Jaguar Classic’s specially developed five-speed gearbox, for a smoother, quieter and more refined driving experience.

Uprated suspension ensures the chassis can exploit the performance provided by its powertrain, while wider wheels, tires, and uprated brakes deliver superior grip and confidence. A sports exhaust and manifold ensure the E-type’s soundtrack suits its dynamic character.

Modern technologies include 21^st century connectivity provided by the Classic Infotainment system – combining touchscreen controls, satellite navigation and Bluetooth with a period-look that is perfectly in-keeping with the rest of the vehicle. Powerful exterior LED lighting also brings illumination up to modern standards for additional confidence driving at night.

A series of bespoke details complete the vehicle, including a unique plate and dash plaque. In addition, this one-off blue E-type features a few elements inspired by the limited E-type 60 Collection.

The new owner said:

I wanted a classic E-type that could be relied upon for daily driving and be comfortable on Grand Tours while remaining authentic to the original – and I’m blown away by the results. You sense the history and knowledge when you enter the Jaguar Classic Works facility and even after several visits, I still get excited to be in the building. I’m so proud of the car the passionate team there has created, and I’m privileged to be part of its story.

Whilst most of the project was bespoke, certain elements are available for all E-type owners to purchase and benefit from. These include Jaguar Classic’s specially developed five-speed gearbox and their Classic Infotainment system. The five-speed gearbox, originally unveiled on the E-type 60 Collection and is available to purchase through Jaguar Classic’s dedicated parts team. Not only does it give the E-type added usability and comfort, but its installation requires no cutting, and therefore no loss of integrity to the vehicle.

Note: Press release courtesy of Jaguar Classic UK.

Now Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Her Majesty is celebrated with a specially developed platinum silver ‘Platinum Jubilee’ paint. It has been matched to the materials used in a special badge created by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), McLaren’s in-house bespoke division, to mark the occasion.

Both features were revealed on a one-off example of the McLaren Artura, the brand’s groundbreaking new high-performance hybrid supercar, today at the MTC.

Following the development of a bespoke tool and press to create the badge, MSO and McLaren’s advanced coating’s partner AkzoNobel analyzed different lighting conditions to define the most suitable metallic pigment combination. MSO’s paint developers then formulated the desired platinum composition which took eight days to complete including durability and application testing.

It has been an honour for MSO to create a new platinum paint in celebration of Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee this year. This special paint, which will be available for customers to select for years to come, will be a fitting tribute to mark this historic milestone.

Ansar Ali, Managing Director – McLaren Special Operations, McLaren Automotive

About McLaren Automotive

McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars. Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 100 retailers in over 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993 it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT and confirmed in 2018 that the next Ultimate car would be the Speedtail.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International and Tumi.

About McLaren Group: The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US. 

The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

Note: Press release courtesy of McLaren Automotive.

The MGC was the most powerful MG sports car built when it was shown to the public at the 1967 Earls Court Motor Show. The MGC was clearly identified by the bonnet bulge and the teardrop on the left-hand side of the bonnet to ensure the engine would fit in.

In 1969 the MGC production came to an end and University Motors, London’s largest MG agent purchased 176 of the unsold cars and began to market them as University Motors MG Specials with no two cars being the same.

This 1969 MG MGC is one of those 176 cars. Having just three owners from new and with the last owner for 31 years, he undertook a bare metal, nut, and bolt restoration in the early 90s, and a photographic record of the work is included.

The car has only covered just over 51,000 miles and is in excellent condition fitted with overdrive, wire wheels, manual gearbox a fresh MOT, and Heritage Certificate.

At £18,000 to £20,000 this is a superb opportunity to get into classic motoring with a much-loved marque and from low ownership and with a very suitable registration plate included.

Also offered in the Summer Sale is a 2012 Morgan Plus 4 Two-Seater from the famous Malvern Hills factory. A beautifully handcrafted car, Morgan has a tremendous and faithful following, with many waiting for years to get to own one of these classics.

This very well-spec’d 2012 demonstrator for Morgan dealer Allon White has covered just 10,000 miles between them and the vendor who is the second owner.

Fitted with the 143bhp Ford 2 Litre Duratec engine and Mazda 4-speed gearbox, which was new for that year, this is a very well-presented car with a Certificate of Conformity and Newness and guided at £25,000 to £30,000.

Gary Dunne CCA Sales Manager commented:

These are two really superb cars. The MG is a marque that is so well-loved, especially from this era. With a very strong club following and numerous opportunities, this lovely restored and final version on the MGC is not to be missed.

The Morgan represents true British craftsmanship, made at the foot of the Malvern Hills, the Plus 4 is one of the most desirable versions of these finely crafted motor cars.

This 2012 version is a superbly presented car and a great chance to get into open-top motoring with a very dedicated following. Known the world over, the Morgan offers a great driving experience.

The Classic Car Auction team has been out on the road, they attended the Stratford Festival of Motoring over the three-day Bank Holiday, meeting current and new clients, promoting their forthcoming sales, as well as immersing themselves in classic motor shows.

Gary continued:

We had a great time in Stratford, wonderful to be out again and meeting people, hearing their stories and discussing cars to be offered.

With so many cars now coming in we are rapidly approaching the closing date on the 27th May so would urge anyone thinking of consigning their car to get in touch.

The entry fee for consigning is £150, with early entries being offered a half-price rate for the first 50 cars submitted. If you wish to promote your car further, for £300 including the entry fee you could have professional photography.

The Classic Car Auction Summer sale takes place on the 18th of June with viewing days on Thursday and Friday. The Warwickshire Event Centre has plenty of free parking and is easily accessed from the M40, M42.

If you are buying or selling, the premium is 12.5% for buyers and 5% for sellers plus Vat.

Forthcoming Auctions (see full calendar)
18th June – Summer Sale at Warwickshire Event Centre
24th September – Autumn Sale at Warwickshire Event Centre
10th December – Christmas Sale at Warwickshire Event Centre 

Note: Press release courtesy of Classic Car Auctions.

The ceremony was carried out by Matt Windle, Managing Director of Lotus Cars, and Clive Chapman, Managing Director of Classic Team Lotus and the son of Colin Chapman and Hazel Chapman, co-founders of Lotus. Also attending was Jane Payton, Clive’s sister, plus several hundred Lotus employees.

Together with Lotus Advanced Structures (LAS), Lotus’ new sub-assembly facility in Norwich, the Chapman Production Centre is part of a £100 million investment by Lotus in the UK. It is also an investment in the skills and passion of the Lotus team, which has more than doubled since 2017 when Geely became the majority shareholder.

Lotus has recruited new staff across all areas of the business including skilled manufacturing operatives, engineers, and technicians. In vehicle assembly and production operations specifically, 300 new staff have joined the company. Through the new Lotus Learning Academy, based at LAS, all recruits have been trained in the high-quality manufacturing operations they need to begin their career at Lotus.

Performing the opening ceremony, Matt Windle said:

Lotus is transforming from a UK sports car company to a truly global performance car business and brand, and the new Chapman Production Centre is a symbol of us delivering on that ambition. We are proud of our past successes and excited about our all-electric future, which was started all those years ago by our founder Colin Chapman, and I am honoured that Clive and Jane could join us to mark this occasion.

Clive Chapman added:

I am honoured to have been part of this significant day in the history of Lotus. For the Chapman family it is extraordinary to witness Lotus on the path to becoming a global car manufacturer. I am delighted to have this opportunity to wish every success to all those who will be working in the Chapman Production Centre, and to thank Geely and Lotus for honouring Hazel and Colin in such a splendid manner.

The new Chapman Production Centre is one of the most advanced low-volume automotive manufacturing facilities in the world and has the capacity to build around 5,000 cars a year. The all-new paint shop is a state-of-the-art facility that uses automation to apply primer, color, and clear coat, ensuring an exceptionally high-quality finish, a high throughput of vehicles, and perfect repeatability. The new Lotus system is highly efficient: dry filtration uses 60% less energy than a wet system, while an electrostatic primer on body panels will reduce paint usage by 30-40% compared to the previous hand-sprayed process. All Lotus sports car operations at Hethel and in Norwich are powered by 100% renewable electricity thanks to a partnership with energy supplier Centrica.

The buildings which housed the previous Lotus assembly lines have been converted to sub-assembly. They are now home to the all-new framing line which builds the car bodies as part of Emira pre-production, with robots applying a bonding agent to the sides, roof, and cantrails.

All-new Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) ensure the highly efficient movement of cars-in-build on set routes around the factory, allowing operations teams to focus on assembling the vehicles. By using AGVs, Lotus has future-proofed its sports car manufacturing system as changes can be made quickly and easily to accommodate different manufacturing processes as new vehicle models are introduced.

The main assembly line also includes Wheel Alignment and Headlamp Aim (WAHA) equipment, a Vehicle Configuration and Test System (VCaTS), a monsoon water test booth, a rolling road, and a fuel fill area.

Adjacent to the Chapman Production Centre is a new validation track where all production cars are tested as part of the quality assurance process. This dynamic test facility is a key element of the vehicle sign-off, one of many such processes ensuring visual the highest quality.

Lotus Advanced Structures, Norwich

All-new sub-assembly facility, Lotus Advanced Structures, in Norwich, just a few miles to the north of Hethel, houses the bonded and extruded chassis assembly and the subframe and fuel tank manufacture for all Lotus cars. The chassis and front-end assembly line includes robot bonding agent application, 12 new CNC milling machines, and a new laser cutting machine to manufacture fuel tanks, rear subframes, and many of the steel and aluminum components used on the Emira.

Note: Press release courtesy of Lotus Cars.

Open Innovation will drive collaborations with start-ups, scale-ups, and like-minded external organizations on electrification, connectivity, digital services, metaverse, intelligent enterprise, manufacturing, supply chain, and sustainability. 

As part of the new global strategy, JLR’s will launch a first-of-its-kind innovation hub in the UK, in partnership with the corporate innovation platform and investor, Plug and Play. In addition, two separate partnerships with Cubo Itau and Firjan will provide access to the vibrant Latin American start-up ecosystem. 

The announcement is part of JLR’s Reimagine strategy: to be the creator of the world’s most desirable, luxury vehicles for the most discerning of customers. By collaborating with innovators and sector experts, the Open Innovation program will help the business identify digital services, products, tools, and processes for it to achieve its goal of net-zero by 2039 while creating new value chains for the business.  

As a Founding Partner of Plug and Play UK, JLR is building an ecosystem of start-ups and scale-ups that will create jobs and opportunities for the digital economy. The platform will also provide access to a global ecosystem of potential partners, enabling the organization to test new technologies and business models.  Activities will be located close to Jaguar Land Rover’s headquarters in the West Midlands, the heart of the UK’s automotive industry. 

In addition, JLR has signed two partnership agreements in Brazil with Cubo Itau and Firjan. Brazil is an important hub to benefit from the flourishing Latin American start-up ecosystem, as well as being home to one of Jaguar Land Rover’s production facilities.  

Cubo Itau, located in São Paulo, currently hosts hundreds of start-ups covering several industries like fintech, agribusiness, healthcare, and retail. Jaguar Land Rover will play a key role in Cubo’s newly created Smart Mobility Hub, which will spearhead innovations for the automotive sector. 

Firjan, is a private entity that represents industrial and business sectors in Rio de Janeiro state. With a 10,000-strong network of enterprise members, Firjan will work closely with Jaguar Land Rover to connect start-ups that are developing advanced automotive manufacturing processes and provide access to advanced laboratories for R&D programs.  

To enable Open Innovation, Jaguar Land Rover has appointed 70+ ‘champions’ from across key business areas – including sustainability, engineering, design, research, and manufacturing – that will be at the forefront of driving the strategy.  

François Dossa, Executive Director, Strategy and Sustainability, Jaguar Land Rover, said:

With the launch of the Open Innovation platform, Jaguar Land Rover is looking at the entire mobility and sustainability ecosystem to offer an unparalleled customer experience, shaping the future of our industry, and paving the way to the future. We will explore everything from second-life batteries and circular economy to new fintech, insurtech and digital services – all aligned with Jaguar Land Rover as the proud creators of Modern Luxury.

Note: Press release courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover.

Ever since its debut, the Concours of Elegance has had an association with Royal Palaces and the Jewels of the car world, with automotive displays to match those at Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este or the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. In 2022, the Concours of Elegance returns to Hampton Court Palace’s Fountain Gardens, to celebrate its 10^th anniversary, on the 2^nd – 4^th of September.

The J40 Motor Company will present a selection of all-original, restored, and ready-to-restore J40 pedal cars offered for sale, whilst also displaying a star car within the Junior Concours event. Concours guests can learn more about the history of the diminutive Austin, purchase a car or commission a restoration of their own example. The company will also show a prototype of a new J40 continuation model ahead of its official launch. and will present a series of racing and owner events due to take place in 2023.

Since launching in 2020, the J40 Motor Company has shipped parts and accessories to J40 enthusiasts around the world and, later this year will publish the definitive J40 reference book in association with Porter Press. To further support the growing J40 community, the J40 Motor Company will also host a series of important launches throughout 2022, including classic J40 car sales at Bicester Heritage, a new website, a new owners club, a new racing series, and an increased parts and accessories range.

J40 Motor Company Managing Director, Mark Burnett, added:

Like any classic car, all-original, well cared for examples of the J40 are becoming increasingly rare, and prices of such cars continues to rise. The J40 Motor Company aims to make junior motoring accessible to all, with a range of cars to suit everyone, along with a spectacular new continuation model. We are excited to be within the Royal Gardens, amongst some very special cars, and look forward to sharing our passion for the J40 with Concours guests throughout the event.

Note: Press release courtesy of J40 Motor Company.

Steve and Massimo will be focussing on the strategic growth of the business and drive mission-critical themes such as new product development following the recent launch of the all-new Morgan Super 3, the advancement of Morgan’s ESG strategy, innovation in craft-orientated manufacturing as well as the ongoing promotion of Morgan globally.

Massimo, who is joining from Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., where he was Chief Project Management Officer and a member of the Management Board, will be responsible for the operational running of the company, working with the current passionate and dedicated team at Morgan.

Steve Morris, current CEO and Chairman of Morgan Motor Company commented:

This is an extremely important appointment for the Morgan Motor Company. Massimo joins Morgan at a time when it is perfectly primed and positioned for future growth and further success. Therefore, it’s crucial that we have found someone of Massimo’s calibre, passion, and experience to work alongside me to help further cement the company’s recognition as one of the world’s most iconic sports car brands.

On a personal note, I feel incredibly proud to be entering my 40^th year at the company as Executive Chairman. To have led a team at Morgan that is, without doubt, the driving force behind many of Morgan’s notable successes is incredibly satisfying. Managing change is an important aspect of business leadership, I have established an ethos and ability for Morgan to embrace change and identify opportunity. This has become one of the inimitable traits of Morgan, one that gives Morgan the capability to adapt and prosper. I am excited to work with Massimo for many years to come and to see the company reach even greater heights of success, underpinned by passion, soul, heritage, and distinctive products.

Massimo Fumarola also commented:

Morgan Motor Company has a unique reputation for its rich heritage, distinctive styling, and superlative craftsmanship. As a sports car enthusiast, it’s an enormous honour to join such an iconic brand as CEO and work together with Steve to help amplify everything the company stands for. When I was a young boy, our neighbour had a Morgan, and I dreamt of driving a Morgan myself one day. For me, a Morgan is the best combination of pure vehicle dynamics, light-weight design, driving pleasure, quality refinement, functional design, and courageous engineering. Morgan sports cars are not about performances, they are about a truly authentic, unconventional and exhilarating driving experience. They stand for joy, freedom, individuality, self-confidence and aspirational lifestyle. Morgan has a timeless value proposition to ensure a best sensory customer engagement. I look forwards to working together with the team and with our dealers to promote this unique brand globally.

Morgan recently revealed the Super 3, an all-new take on its 113-year legacy of three-wheeled vehicles, which is now on sale. The new model is the company’s first ‘clean sheet’ design since the launch of the Aero 8 in 2000. Super 3 brings unprecedented levels of quality, engineering integrity, and configurability to the brand.

Note: Press release courtesy of Morgan Motor Company.

Wholesale volumes were 76,526 units and production volumes were 82,722 units in the period (both excluding China Joint Venture), up 11% and 15% respectively compared to the previous quarter ending 31 December 2021. Compared to the previous quarter, wholesale volumes were up by 23% for Defender, 14% for Range Rover Sport, and 29% for Discovery. The quarter was also noteworthy for the first deliveries of the New Range Rover, with 1,910 wholesales with the prior model now running out.

Retail sales for JLR for the quarter ending 31 March 2022 were 79,008 vehicles, down 1% (1,118 units) from the previous quarter ending 31 December 2022 and 36% (44,475 units) from the quarter a year ago ending 31 March 2021. Retails were higher compared to the previous quarter in the UK (+34%), North America (+5%), and Overseas (+10%) but were lower in China (-18%) and Europe (-17%).

Wholesales (excluding the China Joint Venture) for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, were 294,182, down 15% compared to the fiscal year ending March 31, 2021. Retail sales for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2022 were 376,381, down 14% compared to the fiscal year ending 31 March 2021.

Despite the impact of the semiconductor shortage on production and sales, the Company continues to see strong demand for its products with global retail orders again setting new records in the quarter. As of March 31, 2022, the total order book has grown to over 168,000 units, up around 14,000 orders from December 32, 2021. Demand for the New Range Rover and New Defender are particularly strong with over 45,500 and 40,000 orders respectively.  

Commenting on the sales results, Lennard Hoornik, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Commercial Officer, said:

The successful New Range Rover launch, as well as the momentum gained from Defender, has resulted in a steadily increasing order bank, now at a record 168,000 units. The customer response to the first deliveries of New Range Rover is strong and we remain optimistic for the future, despite the geo-political and macro-economic challenges facing the industry at present.

The conflict in Ukraine has not materially impacted our wholesale volumes in the quarter. The impact on production has also been limited due to active management of the parts supply chain, including developing alternatives for the relatively small number of parts that are sourced from the affected countries. However, it is difficult to predict how supply and inflationary pressures will impact the coming quarters. Our first priority remains the welfare of our employees, and the Company has been providing humanitarian support for the families of colleagues impacted by the conflict and through the supply of vehicles to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Jaguar Land Rover expects to report audited results for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, during May 2022.

While the JLR is still closing the books, it expects to report positive cash flow for the fourth quarter in line with expectations, based on preliminary cash balances.

JLR Q4 Retail Sales Summary

FY22 Q4

January – March 2022

Calendar year

January – March 2022

Note: Press release courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover.

A series of ongoing improvements at the factory since 2010 has been the backdrop to the release of these new figures, as Bentley focuses on the key principles of reduction and reuse. 

The amount of water used at the Crewe factory was cut by 26.6 percent in 2021, thanks mainly to major investment in water capture measures and installing water recycling systems. Some of this decrease was also due to a reduction in ‘domestic’ water usage onsite, caused by a greater proportion of colleagues working from home during the pandemic. However, a second water capture tank – with the capacity to provide a further 1,800-litres of rainwater per day – has just been installed on the roof of the new Excellence Centre for Vehicle Finish. The new tank will also be attached to the reverse osmosis water system in the paint shop and will directly serve toilet facilities in the new manufacturing finishing area. 

The new data also shows a drop of 70.2 percent in CO2 emissions at the Crewe Pyms Lane site, where all Bentley models are built. The fall is largely due to Bentley’s use of green gas and biofuels in onsite logistic vehicles. The figures further improve on past CO2 cuts at the factory, thanks to the use of energy generated from the company’s extensive onsite solar PV system. In January, Bentley confirmed that the system, which currently consists of circa 31,500 panels will be extended further. 

Energy consumption per vehicle was down 17.2 percent, thanks to an ongoing focus on efficiency, the use of green gas, and the impact of a more efficient boiler system. 

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) – materials often found in items such as adhesives – were also cut by 17.5 percent. Bentley is planning to invest in new onsite technologies to reduce this figure still further over the next 12 months.

Peter Bosch, Member of the Board for Manufacturing at Bentley Motors, explains:

The focus of our Beyond100 strategy is to ensure Bentley is a world leader in the delivery of sustainable luxury mobility. These latest encouraging figures show that the continuous focus of our manufacturing strategy on reducing waste, water and energy use are paying dividends by delivering impactful year on year change.   

Our site is already carbon neutral and the ethos behind our Dream Factory concept is to go-to-zero in terms of environmental impact. We are planning more solar panels and investment in VOCs mitigation will take place in 2022, to make Crewe the most sustainable site that it can possible be.  

Longer term, the £2.5 billion investment we announced in January 2022 will help us further transform our facilities, combining our unique fusion of craftsmanship, customer interaction and colleague experience to build the platform for our first Bentley BEV.

Note: Press release courtesy of Bentley Motors.

In September last year, the project was launched at Bulldog Racing in the Eifel region, just a few meters away from the Nordschleife. The base vehicle is a MINI John Cooper Works with the 4-cylinder turbo engine known from the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and MINI John Cooper Works Countryman with 225 kW/306 hp and a maximum torque of 450 Nm.

The 8-speed Steptronic gearbox taken from large-series-production featuring an integrated, mechanical differential lock with a locking effect of up to 70% ensures that the drive torque is converted into thrilling performance without any losses.

MINI John Cooper Works Racing Modifications

For racing purposes, the following modifications were made to the standard MINI John Cooper Works which go beyond SP3T class regulations:

• A specially developed racing cage was installed.
• The fuel tank volume was increased to 100 litres.
• Far-reaching interventions in the aerodynamics, including an adjustable rear wing, a completely covered underbody, a rear diffuser and front splitter were made.
• Weight was consistently reduced, e.g. by using Makrolon® window panes.
• A model-specific racing suspension with adjustable rebound and compression damping was fitted.
• All moving chassis and suspension parts were replaced with reinforced Uniball bearings.
• A pneumatic lifting unit was installed.
• The sports exhaust system was adapted with a racing catalytic converter.
• Original BMW M Performance brake components were installed.

MINI In Motorsport 

Pat Moss made motorsport history in 1962, scoring the first international rally victory for MINI at the Tulip Rally. Her victory marked the beginning of the Classic Mini’s unique success story in rally sport, with 3 overall Monte Carlo Rally wins in 1964 (Paddy Hopkirk), 1965 (Timo Mäkinen) and 1967 (Rauno Aaltonen).

This string of successes included six overall Dakar Rally victories in 2012 (Leonid Novitskiy), 2013 (Stéphane Peterhansel), 2014 (Nani Roma), 2015 (Nasser Al-Attiyah), 2020 (Carlos Sainz Sr.) and 2021 (Stéphane Peterhansel).

The MINI John Cooper Works racing car “Made in Nürburg” pays homage to the racing tradition of the MINI brand in the classic colour scheme of the 1960s racing cars in red / white.

Note: Press release courtesy of BMW Group.

A distinctive combination of design enhancements and chassis features bring a new dimension of sporting luxury to the line-up, all based around the R-Dynamic design. Its stealthy character is supported by a Black contrast roof and full exterior Black Pack. Available in the full colour palette and exclusively in new Arroios Grey, privacy glass and unique Gloss Black 21-inch 5 split-spoke alloy wheels complete the exterior.

The dynamic theme continues inside, with Black Suedecloth headlining and steering wheel. A sliding panoramic roof ensures a light and airy cabin while a combination of chassis technologies ensure the perfect balance of ride comfort and handling.

The new Velar HST features Electronic Air Suspension with Adaptive Dynamics for optimum comfort and control, with Adaptive Dynamics constantly monitoring the road conditions and adjusting the suspension responses accordingly. Configurable Dynamics also ensures drivers are able to tailor the driving experience to suit their preferences. 

In keeping with its dynamic personality, the Velar HST is available with a choice of powerful six-cylinder Ingenium engines. Customers can choose from the P400 (400PS) and D300 (300PS) Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) petrol and diesel powertrains for effortless performance and refinement.

The Range Rover Velar’s elegant design and connected technologies have seen the mid-size luxury SUV win a succession of international awards, including the World Car Design of the Year title at the 2018 World Car Awards.

Finbar McFall, Land Rover Brand Director, said:

The new Range Rover Velar HST offers a combination of carefully curated design enhancements and chassis features; to add to its breadth of capability, without compromising its trademark refinement and comfort.

In addition to the Velar HST model, the desirable Range Rover Velar Edition has been reintroduced to the line-up. Based on the R-Dynamic SE, this special edition is now available with the full Velar paint palette and features a black contrast roof complemented by Black Pack exterior detailing and 20-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels. A sliding panoramic roof and privacy glass complete the enhancements.

Amazon Alexa is now available on the Range Rover Velar when fitted with the advanced Pivi Pro infotainment system and the Online Pack. Seamless integration brings the familiar Alexa experience into the vehicle and provides natural voice interaction with Pivi Pro’s navigation and entertainment features. Use Alexa to set destinations or find points of interest en route, stream media, make lists and set reminders, make calls and control your smart home.

The Velar HST also features the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technologies, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist. This intelligent technology is available as part of the Driver Assist Pack and makes automatic steering adjustments in order to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane it is traveling in.

Customers can experience superior air quality thanks to Cabin Air Purification Plus. The advanced technology enhances Cabin Air Ionisation with PM2.5 filtration, providing superior interior air quality by monitoring CO₂ levels and automatically introducing fresh external air when levels drop.

Greater convenience comes courtesy of the Park Assist Pack. While all Velar models feature a rear camera as standard, this comprehensive pack includes 3D Surround Camera and Park Assist for automatically controlled parking maneuvers.

Range Rover Velar HST UK Pricing

Note: Press release courtesy of Land Rover UK.

Building on a record-breaking 2021, the marque’s success continued into the new year with registrations in January and February (4,471 units) totaling more than those for the whole of 2017 (4,471 units).

March registrations of 9,367 were greater than the whole of 2018 and the total volume of cars registered by the brand in Q1 2022 (13,838 units) is up 124.6 percent on the first quarter of 2021.

According to the latest figures published by SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) yesterday, this gives the brand a market share of 3.31 percent year-to-date, up from 1.45 percent in 2021.

Growth was seen across all drivetrains offered by the brand, with petrol sales up 155 percent, PHEV up 441 percent and pure electric up 40 percent. The MG ZS was the brand’s biggest seller, accounting for 29 percent of sales or 4,042 units.

This performance ensures MG remains one of the UK’s most compelling investment opportunities for automotive franchises, with more than 39 new dealer partners joining its network in the past 12 months. This includes some of the nation’s biggest dealer groups like Vertu Motors, RRG and Arnold Clark.

Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK, said:

We are absolutely thrilled with the results we have achieved in the first quarter and that the incredible momentum we built in over the course of a record-breaking 2021 has carried into the new year.

We are particularly pleased because it means that our core message of cutting edge technology, great quality and exciting cars all at an affordable price is clearly resonating with our target demographic.

With two important new models set to launch in the UK later this year we fully expect 2022 to be another year of spectacular growth.

MG Motor UK currently offers six models in the UK including three plug-in cars – the New MG ZS EV, the New MG5 EV and MG HS Plug-in Hybrid – all backed up by MG’s comprehensive manufacturer’s 7-year warranty and rapidly developing dealer network.

Note: Press release courtesy of MG Motor UK.

Bentley will support the event with a display of 10 iconic Bentleys spanning 90 years of Bentley history from 1929 through to 2019. As Bentley’s carbon neutral factory and campus expands, so has the company’s famous Heritage Collection, with the ten cars for Goodwood including four of six new additions to the fleet, now totaling 35 cars.

The six new additions span 72 years of history, and include:

• 1929 Speed Six, completing Bentley’s pre-war collection
• 1949 Mark VI, an example of the first Bentley built in Crewe
• 1963 S3 Standard Saloon, the most exquisite four-door of the period
• 1984 Continental, a drophead formerly used by the chairman
• 1991 Turbo R, that started the rebirth of Bentley as a sporting brand
• 2001 Arnage Red Label, the return of the 6¾ V8 to Bentley sedans

The Bentley Speed Six is one of the marque’s most iconic pre-war vehicles. A high-performance version of the 6½ Litre, the Speed Six became the most successful racing Bentley, winning Le Mans in 1929 and 1930 at the hands of Woolf Barnato, Sir Henry ‘Tim’ Birkin and Glen Kidston. Bentley’s own example, GU 409, was originally built for a W.F. Watson and fitted with a Weymann saloon body by Victor Broom, and was delivered in September 1929.

The first new production model from Crewe after the war was unveiled in May 1946 and named the Mark VI. Using independent front suspension and the existing 4½-liter straight six engine, the Mark VI quickly became the highest selling Bentley with 5,000 cars produced between 1946 and 1952. 73 years later the Mark VI – AGO 2 – returns back to Crewe. Fitted with an H.J. Mulliner body resplendent in two-tone green over black, AGO 2 is a key design link between the famous Embiricos Bentley and Mk V Corniche of the 1930s, and the iconic R-Type Continental of 1952.

In 1955, the R-Type was superseded by the S-Type; Essentially an updated and improved version, with a separate chassis, straight-six engine and factory produced body. At the time, the standard factory-bodied S-Type saloon cost £3,295 (equivalent of 10 times today’s annual income). There were three iterations of the S-Type from 1955 to 1965. The 2^nd generation (S2) introduced a new V8, power steering as standard and the end of a manual transmission. The final generation was very similar to the S2, with the most-visible exterior difference being a four-headlamp layout. The car joining the heritage fleet is a 1963 S3 Standard Saloon – often regarded as the prettiest of the saloon body styles – finished in Garnet paintwork, and registered 176 FGH.

The Bentley Continental in 1984 was heavily based on the T-Series introduced in the 1960’s. Bentley’s new example, A455 YGJ, represents one of Bentley’s most challenging times, with sales volumes at the lowest point of the company’s history. Regardless, the car is still true to Bentley’s values, and this particular example was driven by the chairman at the time as his company car. The situation improved with significant changes to how the company was run, and the adoption of forced induction to Bentley’s 6¾-litre V8 unveiled in the shape of the Turbo R at the 1985 Geneva Motor Show.

In the early nineties, Bentley’s popularity had grown significantly, mainly due to the success of the Mulsanne Turbo. Turbocharging had returned the performance edge to Bentley’s products, which were now the fastest, most comfortable and most luxurious sedans in the world. The Turbo R, ‘R’ for road-holding, built on the success of the Mulsanne Turbo with more power and a stiffer chassis, but with no compromised to luxury or quality. Bentley’s 1991 Turbo R – J101 PKL – is a fine example of the car that set Bentley back on a path of success.

When Bentley was bought by the Volkswagen Group in 1998, the first order of business was to replace the 4.4-liter V8 of the Bentley Arnage with the leviathan 6¾-liter V8 from the two-door Continentals. Doing so created the Arnage Red Label, which debuted at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show offering a level of torque unmatched by any other sedan – 835 Nm. Redesigned front suspension and bigger brakes accompanied the engine, along with a stiffer body shell. Finished in Fireglow red, Bentley’s example (Y662 SEO) marks one of the turning points in the company’s history.

The new additions means that the heritage fleet now includes cars from every decade and examples of every significant model. Across production in Cricklewood, Derby and Crewe, the 35-strong fleet now perfectly articulates Bentley’s history.

The Head of Bentley’s Heritage Collection, Mike Sayer, comments:

Bentley is undergoing the biggest and fastest transformation in its 102-year history, as part of the Beyond100 strategy. As the brand defines its new direction, it’s vital to be able to chart our journey to date and where the Bentley of today came from. The expanding Heritage Collection will play a key part in that process, providing driveable examples of every chapter of the company’s long history. We’re really looking forward to sharing the new cars with colleagues, customers, visitors and the media over the coming months.

Bentley will be based in the Aerodrome for the Members’ Meeting.

Note: Press release courtesy of Bentley Motors.