<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Retail &#8211; Lease Connect &#8211; Car News</title>
	<atom:link href="https://leaseconnect.co.uk/category/retail/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk</link>
	<description>Car News</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 15:07:21 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>
	hourly	</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>
	1	</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4</generator>
	<item>
		<title>Is that…? OMODA’S imnotasupermodel.com stunt made London do a double take at Fashion Week</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2026/02/28/is-that-omodas-imnotasupermodel-com-stunt-made-london-do-a-double-take-at-fashion-week/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 15:07:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Fashion & Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Is that…? OMODA’S imnotasupermodel.com stunt made London do a double take at Fashion Week]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=10843</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[OMODA 7 made its dynamic UK debut at London Fashion Week (LFW) 2026, with a bold, city-wide activation that stopped the capital in its tracks The ‘I’m Not a Supermodel, But This Car Is’ stunt placed the OMODA 7 firmly in the spotlight as fashion&#8217;s latest object of desire, fronted by model and lookalike, Denise [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<ul>
<li><em><strong>OMODA 7 made its dynamic UK debut at London Fashion Week (LFW) 2026, with a bold, city-wide activation that stopped the capital in its tracks</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>The ‘I’m Not a Supermodel, But This Car Is’ stunt placed the OMODA 7 firmly in the spotlight as fashion&#8217;s latest object of desire, fronted by model and lookalike, Denise Ohnona, in a series of striking photo and video content</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>High-impact digital billboards at The Outernet made passers-by look twice, and directed them to the dedicated <a href="https://imnotasupermodel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">imnotasupermodel.com</a> website</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>OMODA UK served as Principal Partner of LFW as part of its wider relationship with the British Fashion Council (BFC) – a natural fit for a brand whose very name carries &#8220;MODA&#8221;, the word for fashion</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>A VIP fleet of OMODA 7s transported designers, models and key industry figures across London throughout the event, reinforcing the brand&#8217;s fashion credentials at every turn</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>OMODA UK hosted the exclusive &#8216;OMODA Lounge&#8217; at the BFC NEWGEN space at 180 Strand, in collaboration with female-led radio station FOUNDATION FM, creating an immersive cultural hub for designers, artists and tastemakers</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>The activation embodied OMODA&#8217;s &#8220;Art in Motion&#8221; design philosophy and its alignment with creativity, self-expression and contemporary urban culture</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>The OMODA 7 will arrive in UK dealerships from March 2026, priced from £29,915 OTR* for the petrol variant and from £32,000 OTR* for the Super Hybrid System (SHS)</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>All OMODA 7 models are backed by a 7-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty, an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty for SHS variants, and RAC Home Start as standard for the lifetime of the warranty**</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>All assets available to download, including the video campaign, can be found <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/sl3lk9gjnl0jolh9l1fg6/ANTCFK8N2bIKDjOoEjg5gXw?rlkey=ydwgc6m9juxxzw12rgrtcok3y&amp;st=c8kzdaw2&amp;dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a></strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>London, 23 February 2026<br /></strong>Today marks the close of London Fashion Week (LFW) 2026, and OMODA UK&#8217;s most high-profile brand moment yet in the UK. As Principal Partner of this year’s LFW and in recognition of its wider relationship with the British Fashion Council (BFC), OMODA UK spent the week making its presence felt across the capital, establishing the OMODA 7 as the mode of transport of choice for fashion&#8217;s most discerning figures, and a design statement that belongs squarely in the world of contemporary style.</p>
<p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-405885" src="https://leaseconnect.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/4.-London-Fashion-Week-appearance-on-Saturday-21-February-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>Alongside OMODA UK&#8217;s LFW activation was a campaign that did what the best fashion statements always aim to do: turn heads. ‘I’m Not a Supermodel, But This Car Is’ was a confident, viral campaign that flipped the convention of automotive advertising on its head. Rather than placing a human at the centre of the story, it positioned the OMODA 7 as an undisputed showstopper of the season.</p>
<p>Fronted by model Denise Ohnona, who often gets mistaken for one of the UK’s most famous and iconic supermodels of the 21<sup>st</sup> Century, OMODA UK’s campaign unfolded through a series of photo and video content in which the OMODA 7 was styled, lit and presented with the same admiration afforded to the world&#8217;s most famous faces. Denise&#8217;s role was knowing and playful, which added the human presence precisely to remind people that the real star isn’t a ‘face’ as expected, but the OMODA 7 itself.</p>
<p>High-impact digital billboards at The Outernet ran during LFW, designed to make tourists and passers-by do a double-take before directing them to the website <a href="https://imnotasupermodel.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">imnotasupermodel.com</a>, tying people back to the brand and the car. The messaging reflected the OMODA 7&#8217;s confident design language and its ambition to challenge expectations, both in automotive, fashion and culture.</p>
<p>Throughout the wider London Fashion Week spectacle, a fleet of OMODA 7s provided VIP transport for designers, models and senior industry figures across London. From backstage arrivals to after-show departures, the OMODA 7 was woven into the fabric of LFW, not only as a sponsor but as a genuine participant in fashion&#8217;s most important week, making it the mode of choice in the industry.</p>
<p>Inside the official BFC NEWGEN space at 180 Strand, OMODA UK created the &#8216;OMODA Lounge&#8217;, which displayed an immersive environment inspired by the brand&#8217;s &#8220;Art in Motion&#8221; design philosophy. In collaboration with FOUNDATION FM, the female-led radio station championing underground music, art and culture, the space hosted live DJ broadcasts and served as a meeting point for designers, artists and tastemakers throughout the week. It was a physical expression of what OMODA represents: a brand that understands the space where design, technology and culture converge.</p>
<p>Victor Zhang, UK Country Director, OMODA UK, said: &#8220;For OMODA UK, London Fashion Week represented a perfect meeting point between design, creativity and technology, values that are already central to everything we stand for as a brand. The word &#8216;MODA&#8217; is not incidental to our name; it is our intent. We believe a car can be as culturally relevant and as aesthetically compelling as high fashion, and the OMODA 7 is our most powerful proof of that yet. </p>
<p>“The &#8216;I’m Not a Supermodel, But This Car Is&#8217; campaign reflected our confidence in the OMODA 7 as a fashion-forward SUV that belongs in contemporary British culture. We close London Fashion Week 2026 with the OMODA 7 firmly established as the most stylish new arrival of the season.&#8221;</p>
<p>The connection is more than symbolic. Embedded in the brand&#8217;s very identity, &#8220;MODA&#8221;, derived from the word for “fashion”, speaks to OMODA&#8217;s founding belief that a car can be as fashion-forward, as expressive, and as culturally relevant as anything on a runway. The OMODA 7 is that belief made real as a bold, stylish and technology-forward mid-size SUV that doesn&#8217;t just keep pace with modern taste but rather sets the benchmark.</p>
<p>Positioned between the compact OMODA 5 and the flagship OMODA 9, the OMODA 7 represents a significant step in the brand&#8217;s UK portfolio. Available in Knight and Noble specification grades, it is offered with either a 1.6-litre TGi petrol engine or OMODA’s Super Hybrid System, which delivers over 700 miles of total range, including up to 56 miles of EV-only driving, with fast charging and Vehicle-to-Load capability.</p>
<p>Inside, eco-leather finishes, dual digital displays, SONY audio and wireless smartphone connectivity come as standard. The OMODA 7 is also the first UK-delivered OMODA model to feature an in-built fragrance system, which adds an innovative sensory dimension to the cabin, setting a new benchmark for interior experience in this segment.</p>
<p>The OMODA 7 will arrive in UK dealerships from March 2026, priced from £29,915 OTR* for the petrol variant and from £32,000 OTR* for the SHS. All models are supported by a comprehensive 7-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty, an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty for SHS variants, and RAC Home Start as standard for the lifetime of the warranty.**</p>
<p>* All prices quoted are correct at time of writing<br />** Subject to servicing within the OMODA&amp;JAECOO network, in line with the maintenance schedule</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Mowgli Street Food Unveils Its Christmas Feasting Menus &#8211; A Celebration of Togetherness and Indian Home-Style Cooking</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/10/26/mowgli-street-food-unveils-its-christmas-feasting-menus-a-celebration-of-togetherness-and-indian-home-style-cooking/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:02:02 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Fashion & Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Christmas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mowgli Street Food]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=9373</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Mowgli Street Food restaurants have launched their special Christmas menus &#8211; a vibrant celebration of Indian home-style cooking, made for sharing.  This festive season, Mowgli invites guests to gather beneath the vines and twinkling lights for a feast that sparkles with warmth, generosity, and connection.  Set against the glow of fairy lights, guests can toast [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<blockquote>
<div dir="ltr">
<div>
<div class="R1UVb">
<table id="x_x_backgroundTable" border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="10">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="left" valign="top">
<table id="x_x_templateContainer" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td align="left" valign="top">
<table id="x_x_templateHeader" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td class="x_x_headerContent">
<div id="x_x_headerImage" data-block="Banner">
<div>
<p><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Mowgli Street Food restaurants have launched their special Christmas menus &#8211; a vibrant celebration of Indian home-style cooking, made for sharing. </span></p>
<p>This festive season, Mowgli invites guests to gather beneath the vines and twinkling lights for a feast that sparkles with warmth, generosity, and connection. </p>
<p>Set against the glow of fairy lights, guests can toast the season, while enjoying the bold, joyful flavours of Indian home-style cooking, the kind of food that brings people together.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-397438" src="https://leaseconnect.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7e7ca58ee525e6afe64d316836255b468b4a8dc5-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></p>
<p>The Festive Feasting Menu (£40 per person) brings the full Mowgli experience to the table. After starting with a glass of bubbles or a mocktail, guests will be invited to share crisp Chat Bombs bursting with spiced yoghurt and tamarind, alongside an array of flavour-packed curries served in tiffin towers, and irresistible street plates such as the Gunpowder Chicken and Himalayan Cheese Toast. </p>
<p>Served with delicious desserts, and a Christmas cracker for each guest, this Feasting menu is the perfect way to enjoy the festive season.</p>
<p>For those looking to celebrate in even greater style, Mowgli welcomes back its much-loved Grand Table Christmas Feast (£55 per person), a theatrical, banquet-style experience inspired by India’s grand family celebrations. Beginning with a glass of champagne, guests are invited to dine from tiered tiffin towers overflowing with colour, flavour, and story &#8211; a joyful feast served alongside a choice of wine or beer.</p>
<p>Mowgli said: “The Grand Table Menu is our love letter to Indian family feasting &#8211; the laughter, the stories, the vibrant dishes that are perfect for sharing. It’s a way to bring people closer around the table and celebrate what really matters: togetherness.”</p>
<p aria-hidden="true"> </p>
<p>Mowgli also offers a selection of private dining rooms and event spaces, perfect for festive gatherings, team celebrations, or large parties wanting to make their meal truly special. Each space is designed with Mowgli’s signature warmth; fairy-lit, welcoming, and made for sharing stories over food.</p>
<p>Whether it’s a long-awaited reunion, an office party, or a festive catch-up with friends, Mowgli’s Christmas menus offer a sparkling way to celebrate the season.</p>
<p>About Mowgli Street Food</p>
<p>Mowgli was born to show the world how Indians eat at home and on their streets. Founded in 2014 by Barrister-turned-restaurateur Nisha Katona, it’s known for its fresh, vibrant and bold dishes served in glowing interiors adorned with fairy lights and swing seating.</p>
<p> <a title="https://74n5c4m7.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fwww.mowglistreetfood.com%2F/1/0102019a101bf344-c3c84ebc-5546-49e1-9f63-d14d57a360a4-000000/WCqCdqFb04upRANSAFzKZ2LrcYU=449" href="https://74n5c4m7.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fwww.mowglistreetfood.com%2F/1/0102019a101bf344-c3c84ebc-5546-49e1-9f63-d14d57a360a4-000000/WCqCdqFb04upRANSAFzKZ2LrcYU=449" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">www.mowglistreetfood.com</a></p>
<p> <a title="https://74n5c4m7.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fwww.mowglistreetfood.com%2Fevents%2F/1/0102019a101bf344-c3c84ebc-5546-49e1-9f63-d14d57a360a4-000000/ZO5f_n6q6jFfIGoS2yYVkI8ibkk=449" href="https://74n5c4m7.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fwww.mowglistreetfood.com%2Fevents%2F/1/0102019a101bf344-c3c84ebc-5546-49e1-9f63-d14d57a360a4-000000/ZO5f_n6q6jFfIGoS2yYVkI8ibkk=449" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2">www.mowglistreetfood.com/events/</a></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>YANGWANG U9 Xtreme becomes world’s fastest production car, with top speed of 308.4 mph (496.22km/h)</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/22/yangwang-u9-xtreme-becomes-worlds-fastest-production-car-with-top-speed-of-308-4-mph-496-22km-h/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:02:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8698</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[YANGWANG, the luxury sub-brand of global new-energy vehicle (NEV) leader BYD, has set a new global production-car top-speed record of 496.22km/h (308.4 mph) at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in Germany. The feat was achieved with YANGWANG’s latest U9 Xtreme hypercar on 14 September 2025, eclipsing its previous EV benchmark and the 490.484km/h [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>YANGWANG, the luxury sub-brand of global new-energy vehicle (NEV) leader BYD, has set a new global production-car top-speed record of 496.22km/h (308.4 mph) at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in Germany.</p>
<p>The feat was achieved with YANGWANG’s latest U9 Xtreme hypercar on 14 September 2025, eclipsing its previous EV benchmark and the 490.484km/h (304.48 mph) maximum of the quickest petrol-powered model to become the world’s fastest car overall. This modern milestone in engineering sets a new standard in electric mobility, mixing unrivalled power and speed with zero emissions.</p>
<p>Originally known as the U9 Track/Special Edition, and now officially confirmed as the YANGWANG U9 Xtreme in production guise, or U9X for short, the fastest car on the planet takes the existing technical architecture of the U9 currently on sale in China and harnesses the potential of a number of key evolutions.</p>
<p>These include, but are not limited to: an upgraded powertrain with 1200V ultra-high-voltage electrics (compared with 800V), a lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery with a remarkable discharge rate of 30C, four ultra-high-speed motors that operate at up to 30,000rpm and produce a total of more than 3000PS, track-level semi-slick tyres, and revised DiSus-X suspension with specific tuning to cope with the increased stresses of circuit driving.</p>
<p>BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for everyone in the research and development division. YANGWANG is a brand that does not recognise the impossible, and only through this commitment to what’s coming next can you end up with a vehicle like the U9X. I extend my gratitude to the whole team, and my thanks to the driver, Marc Basseng, for his skill and technical input. It’s terrific that the fastest production car in the world is now electric.”</p>
<p>The driver for the U9X’s record-breaking run was Marc Basseng, a German track specialist with a long history in sports-car racing and endurance motorsport. He said: “This record was only possible because the U9 Xtreme simply has incredible performance. Technically, something like this is not possible with a combustion engine. Thanks to the electric motor, the car is quiet, there are no load changes, and that allows me to focus even more on the track.”</p>
<p>The U9 Xtreme is now being made available to customers, with a limited series production run of no more than 30 units. Its name is derived from the English word ‘Extreme’, meaning ‘limit’ and ‘ultimate’, with added emphasis on the ‘X’, which represents the unknown. These qualities fit perfectly with YANGWANG’s ethos of taking joy and delight from the act of exploration and the innovations that come through that process.</p>
<p>By setting a new global speed record, YANGWANG redefines the sustainable hypercar. Backed by BYD&#8217;s innovation and sustainability commitments, YANGWANG employs cutting-edge tech to deliver unmatched performance, safety, and driving experience.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Electric eActros 600 powers the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team’s green push to Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/22/electric-eactros-600-powers-the-mercedes-amg-petronas-f1-teams-green-push-to-dutch-grand-prix-in-zandvoort/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 12:02:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8696</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team set a new milestone for long-distance electric trucks by using an all-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 to transport its W16 race cars 673km from its UK base to the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort The team is the first in F1 to use an electric HGV during the European season [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<ul>
<li><strong>The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team set a new milestone for long-distance electric trucks by using an all-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 to transport its W16 race cars 673km from its UK base to the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort</strong></li>
<li><strong>The team is the first in F1 to use an electric HGV during the European season</strong></li>
<li><strong>Class-leading range of over 500km and rapid charging from 20% to 80% in 25 minutes make long distance travel easy and sustainable with the eActros 600</strong></li>
<li><strong>Electric transportation follows team’s successful use of HVO100 biofuel since 2022</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team has become the first in Formula One history to complete a long-haul journey solely using an all-electric truck.</p>
<p>In a demonstration of the viability of electric trucks and the decarbonisation of long-distance haulage, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team used an eActros 600 to transport its W16 race cars from its UK base at Brackley, Northamptonshire, to Zandvoort in Holland for the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix. Based on its consumption during the journey, the truck could have done the 673km journey on a single charge.</p>
<p>This landmark journey highlights both the capability of the eActros 600 and the team’s determination to push the boundaries of sustainability in motorsport logistics. The journey was completed using 100% renewable energy thanks to charging at a dedicated Milence truck charging hub.</p>
<p>The electric truck stood out at the Dutch Grand Prix from all the diesel-powered transportation used by other competitors.</p>
<p>The continental journey to Holland followed a pilot trip to the 2025 British Grand Prix at Silverstone earlier this summer using three Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric trucks to take all the cars and supporting equipment.</p>
<p>With its ambition to become one of the most sustainable global professional sports teams, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is constantly exploring new ways to use green technologies to reduce its emissions. The team has already taken the initiative of using HVO100, a second-generation biofuel, to power its trucks and generators since 2022, which saved more than 500 tonnes of emissions during last year’s race season.</p>
<p>Alice Ashpitel, Head of Sustainability, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, said: “Our work is powered by a team of people who are passionate about shaping a better future – one where performance and purpose go hand in hand on our journey to become one of the most sustainable global professional sports teams.</p>
<p>“As a team, our commitment to sustainability means that we rethink how we move, not just how we race. While we are driven by performance on track, we are incredibly proud that our innovations travel beyond the grid. The use of the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 trucks, initially piloted at our home race in July, and then used to transport our race cars to Zandvoort, is another important step in our decarbonisation journey.”</p>
<p>Ash Armstrong, eConsultancy Manager, Daimler Truck UK, commented: “We are continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible with battery electric trucks. Our partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is key in demonstrating that sustainable, long-haul distribution has arrived with our eActros 600.</p>
<p>“We could not be more thrilled that one of our eActros 600 trucks has been used to transport the team’s W16 cars from Brackley to Zandvoort. We are extremely proud to showcase the impressive range and capability of this truck. It just goes to show that the era of electrification is upon us and range anxiety is no longer an issue.”</p>
<p>The Mercedes-Benz eActros is the International Truck of the Year 2025 with a class-leading minimum range of 500km per full charge. Rapid charging using the megawatt charging system (MCS) allows the truck’s 600kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery to go from 20% to 80% charge in just 25 minutes.</p>
<p>Equipped with a 600kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, the eActros 600 redefines what is possible in the world of heavy-duty transport. With fast, reliable charging and class-leading efficiency, it is engineered for the pace of industries like Formula One – and beyond.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026 &#8211; Victory for Volkswagen&#8217;s Perfect Passat</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/22/caravan-and-motorhome-club-towcar-of-the-year-2026-victory-for-volkswagens-perfect-passat/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 11:02:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8700</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Victory for Volkswagen&#8217;s Perfect PassatThe Volkswagen Passat R-Line 2.0 TSI 204PS DSGcrowned victor in theCaravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026 Awards Embargo: London, 19 September 2025, 16:00: The Volkswagen Passat R-Line 2.0 TSI 204PS DSG has won this year’s overall trophy and been crowned Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026. [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Victory for Volkswagen&#8217;s Perfect Passat</strong><br /><strong>The Volkswagen Passat R-Line 2.0 TSI 204PS DSG</strong><br /><strong>crowned victor in the</strong><br /><strong>Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026 Awards<img decoding="async" src="https://newspressuk.com/assets/OriginalVariantsStg/3788a024-28d6-5c00-823f-ea9d00e0b3b6.jpg" alt="" width="100%" height="auto" /><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Embargo: London, 19 September 2025, 16:00: The Volkswagen Passat R-Line 2.0 TSI 204PS DSG</strong> has won this year’s overall trophy and been crowned Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026. The Passat also claimed victory in the Family Towcars and Caravan weight 1300kg-1500kg categories. It was a hugely successful year for Volkswagen as it also topped the podium in the Large Family Towcar category with its Multivan Style 2.0 TSI 204PS.</p>
<p>The Passat has been a common sight on Britain’s roads for 50 years – in many ways it’s the definitive, practical family car, and the latest ninth-generation version is the best of the lot. It’s so good that the judging panel for the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards 2026 overwhelmingly voted it as the overall winner.</p>
<p>The Passat impressed the judges with its superb towing capabilities, power, quality interior, refined driving experience and huge storage space in the boot.</p>
<p>Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year, the leisure vehicle industry’s original and longest-standing towcar testing awards, saw 37 high-quality entrants put through their paces at the world-class UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground testing facility in Bedfordshire.</p>
<p>Rather than being listed by price, the vehicles were split into categories by caravan weight – this makes it easier for potential buyers to work out which cars can tow their own caravans. There were also special award categories for Pick-Up Towcars, Family Towcars,  Large Family Towcars, Electric Towcars, Hybrid Towcars and Luxury Towcars.</p>
<p>As the industry evolves, the range of vehicles in the competition has expanded, with entries spanning a broad spectrum from affordable options to premium, high-end towcars. Fifteen of the entrants were pure-electric and there was also a host of hybrids. </p>
<p>Every one of the cars featured in this year’s competition has been extensively evaluated – for more information about each model, including technical data, visit <a href="http://camc.com/towcar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">camc.com/towcar</a>.</p>
<p><strong><u>The complete winners’ line-up:</u></strong></p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight under 1300kg: </strong><u>ŠKODA Enyaq SportLine 85x 82kWh 210 kW 4&#215;4<br /></u>The Enyaq offers a fantastically refined and comfortable way to travel. It’s remarkably stable when towing and feels very natural and balanced. The interior is well made and superbly practical, and it has a long solo driving range – up to 359 miles on the larger battery 85 models. Models like this 85x get dual-motors, providing four-wheel drive, which give extra traction.</p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight 1300kg &#8211; 1500kg: Family Towcars plus overall Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026:  </strong><u>Volkswagen Passat R-Line 2.0 TSI 204PS DSG<br /></u>The Passat’s ability to positively respond to sudden lane changes and unexpected undulations in the road gave the judges the confidence to push it a little harder than most cars. The 2.0 TSI petrol engine is lively and responsive, delivering plenty of power as and when required, and the car easily kept the caravan in check. Factor in a huge 690-litre boot, quality interior and impressive on-road refinement, it’s easy to see why it’s such an outstanding winner.</p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight 1500kg &#8211; 1600kg:</strong> <u>Nissan ARIYA e-4ORCE EVOLVE 87 kWh<br /></u>A previous award winner, the Nissan Ariya returned to Towcar and struck gold once again. Its high stability levels placed it above the pack with judges loving how it kept its caravan in check at both high speeds and during a variety of lower speed manoeuvres. High marks were also given for the smooth power delivery from the twin electric motors, along with sharp steering, a supple ride, and a practical, quality interior.      </p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight 1600kg &#8211; 1700kg: </strong><u>Genesis GV60 Sport Plus<br /></u>Judges loved the potent 428bhp (482bhp when the Boost button is pressed) power, but of more importance was its high refinement levels and how it kept its caravan in check in all of the tests. Good levels of ride comfort, a very plush interior and simple-to-use tech were all positives. All in all, a wonderful, capable and stylish towcar.</p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight 1700kg &#8211; 1800kg: </strong><u>BMW X3 M50<br /></u>The trailblazing premium mid-sized SUV is back for a fourth generation, and, just like its predecessors, the current X3 is an impressive towcar. It&#8217;s packed with intuitive technology and there&#8217;s a really modern feel inside. The X3 has a quality feel, especially when towing – it&#8217;s stable, secure and delivers immense confidence when braking. Here, in spicy M50 guise, performance was outstanding from the 3.0-litre, straight-six petrol engine.</p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight 1800kg &#8211; 2000kg: </strong><u>Porsche Macan Electric<br /></u>Previous overall winner, Porsche, entered two models this year, including its baby electric SUV. The Macan Electric has a claimed solo range of around 400 miles, and is everything you expect from a Porsche SUV but it&#8217;s powered by electricity rather than petrol. In fact, it&#8217;s only the sheer silence from the electric motor that reveals that there&#8217;s no petrol engine, the power delivery and the way the car responds feels just like the petrol version. Judges remarked that the car&#8217;s stopping power when towing was “class leading”, and the Macan “felt like its price was justified in it delivers comfort, build quality and handling”.</p>
<p><strong>Caravan weight over 2000kg and</strong> <strong>Electric Towcars: </strong><u>BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport<br /></u>The updated BMW iX xDrive60 features increased power, increased range and design tweaks.  It provides smooth, confident acceleration, even with a heavy caravan in tow.  The adaptive air suspension kept everything stable, composed and level when hitched, while regenerative braking helped control descents.  Overall, the iX combines EV refinement with serious muscle.</p>
<p><strong>Hybrid Towcars: </strong><u>Volvo XC90 T8 Plug-in Hybrid AWD Ultra<br /></u>The XC90 handles superbly with a caravan whilst remaining comfortable and sure-footed.  The interior is absolutely beautiful and feels like somewhere that you could enjoy a long distance cruise.  New for 2025 are tweaked looks and better interior tech, while the efficient PHEV powertrain is as smooth as ever.</p>
<p><strong>Large Family Towcars: </strong><u>Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Multivan Style 2.0 TSI 204PS<br /></u>For the fourth consecutive year, the Multivan has claimed the Large Family Towcar award. The Multivan really is flexible, with two different body lengths and various seating configurations to choose from.  The 2.0-litre petrol engine is smooth and the comfortable ride makes it ideal for family towing.  For sheer space inside, usability and refinement, few can better the Multivan.</p>
<p><strong>Pick Up Towcars: </strong><u>Isuzu D-Max STEEL Edition<br /></u>The D-Max is impressive with its rugged spirit and adaptability, it gets on with the job with minimal fuss.  It keeps its caravan in remarkable check and is impressively torquey for a 1.9-litre unit.</p>
<p><strong>Luxury Towcars: </strong><u>Bentley Bentayga EWB Mulliner<br /></u>The Extended Wheel Base Mulliner totally pampers passengers. It has great rear passenger space, twin rear seats and extravagant features such as a fridge and champagne flutes – no wonder it won the Luxury car category! It provided a smooth, controlled ride while towing. If money is no object, this is the ultimate towcar.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" src="https://newspressuk.com/assets/OriginalVariantsStg/d470fa63-6ad5-bb38-3749-829b79a383ac.jpg" alt="" width="100%" height="auto" /></p>
<p><strong>Link to images:  </strong><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/aoflia1btw4ycob4a673g/ABT1Lf-Ve7n3HxonzoMFLxQ/Towcar%202026%20press%20release?dl=0&amp;rlkey=we9s8zwluexdqmovangy0xvm0&amp;subfolder_nav_tracking=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TCOY 2026</a></p>
<p>Nick Lomas, Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, said, “The pace of technological advancement in motoring has been remarkable and the strong presence of electric vehicles in this year’s competition highlights just how far the industry has come. We warmly congratulate all the deserving winners of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year 2026 Awards. Our expert judging panel delivered thorough, unbiased evaluations to support anyone looking to purchase a towcar, whether new or pre-owned, with trusted, professional insight.”</p>
<p>Each car was put through its paces at the UTAC Millbrook Proving Ground near Bedford, which provides a variety of testing driving environments. Manufacturers were invited to submit for testing any vehicle that was capable of towing a trailer over 750kg and on sale on 1 October 2025.</p>
<p>The Club’s Scrutiny team thoroughly checked each vehicle before handing it over to the ‘caravanability’ and driving judges.</p>
<p>Caravanability judges tested whether a car’s boot could swallow the bulky accessories normally needed on a caravan trip. They also measured the towball height, both solo and hitched up, and checked the towing information provided in the manufacturer’s handbook.</p>
<p>The cars were then hitched up to caravans ballasted to 85% of their kerbweight, or towing limit if lower. Using specialised apparatus the technical judges then measured the cars’ acceleration and braking capabilities. The car/caravan combinations were then passed over to the driving judges who set off around the UTAC Millbrook circuit. The cars were tested at speeds of up to 55mph on the ‘Alpine route’, which featured various gradients and culminated in a 17% hill start and 26% downhill brake test. The ability to join fast traffic from a standstill was also assessed.</p>
<p>Judges then took the vehicles to the high-speed bowl to further assess their capabilities at speeds in excess of UK legal limits. In the safety of a controlled environment, the judges could induce some instability at 60mph to see how the cars reacted. Reversing tests and comfort evaluations were also conducted, ensuring the vehicles performed not only on technical merit but also in real-world driving conditions. Issues of driver and passenger comfort and visibility were also assessed.</p>
<p>During the exhaustive four-day test, the vehicles are taken on several hundred circuits of the Millbrook Proving Ground, consisting of many laps of the high-speed circular track and demanding alpine hill route.</p>
<p>The results of the competition were announced at the Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the Royal Automobile Club in London on 19 September.</p>
<p><strong>The judging panel:<br /></strong><strong><em>James Batchelor:</em></strong> national motoring journalist, experienced road tester and presenter; James is also the Club’s chief towcar reviewer.<br /><strong><em>Dan Cartwright:</em></strong> a passionate caravan advocate since 1989, Dan founded Caravan Times (Axonn Media) in 2010 and is its chief car tester.<br /><strong><em>Lee Davey:</em></strong> national travel journalist and a road tester for numerous motorhome titles, Lee raced motorbikes nationally before switching to caravanning. He has towed in more than 30 countries.<br /><strong><em>Sammy Faircloth: </em></strong>freelance journalist, passionate about caravanning and a highly experienced towcar user.<br /><strong><em>Dean Gibson: </em></strong> representing <em>Auto Express</em>, Dean is an experienced national motoring journalist.<br /><strong><em>Technical judges: </em></strong> <strong>Deborah Black</strong> from the Club’s Events Committee measured the cars’ acceleration and braking capabilities using specialised apparatus along with <strong>Cameron Burns</strong>, journalist, influencer and lifelong caravanner.<br /><strong><em>Caravanability judges: </em></strong> <strong>Caroline and Keith Rogers</strong> spend hours checking whether each car will accommodate a typical caravanner&#8217;s kit, as well as access to such things as spare wheels, towing electrics and technical information.</p>
<p>Members who own any of the Caravan and Motorhome Club category winners since 2014 (T’s&amp;C’s apply) are eligible for a 10% discount on the Club&#8217;s Car Insurance. Visit <a href="https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/insurance/car-insurance/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Car Insurance</a> for more details.</p>
<p>For more information about the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Towcar of the Year competition please visit <a href="https://www.camc.com/towcar/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.camc.com/towcar/</a>.</p>
<p>For further information and details about the Caravan and Motorhome Club visit <a href="http://www.camc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.camc.com</a></p>
<p><strong>Thanks: </strong>The Caravan and Motorhome Club would like to thank Bailey of Bristol for supplying all the caravans used in the competition, and for providing staff on-site throughout the event. The Bailey team ensured the caravans were correctly ballasted, that their noseweights were kept in trim and that they were in general good working order. Thanks also to AL-KO who ensured brakes were adjusted, wheels were kept tight and all undergear was properly fettled and Milenco for supplying the towing mirrors.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Firm favourite: new Elroq continues Škoda’s winning streak with top award from Business Car</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/22/firm-favourite-new-elroq-continues-skodas-winning-streak-with-top-award-from-business-car/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:02:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8694</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[New all-electric Škoda Elroq named Medium SUV of the Year by Business Car magazine Judges praise compact SUV’s design, practicality and driving range Elroq is the latest Škoda model to receive top honours from Business Car Milton Keynes, 19 September 2025: Škoda’s all-new Elroq has added to its growing list of honours, securing the title [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<ul>
<li><strong>New all-electric Škoda Elroq named Medium SUV of the Year by Business Car magazine</strong></li>
<li><strong>Judges praise compact SUV’s design, practicality and driving range</strong></li>
<li><strong>Elroq is the latest Škoda model to receive top honours from Business Car</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Milton Keynes, 19 September 2025: Škoda’s all-new Elroq has added to its growing list of honours, securing the title of Medium SUV of the Year at the prestigious Business Car Awards 2025. The recognition comes just months after the mid-size all-electric SUV’s market debut, underlining it immediate impact and strong appeal among fleet and business users. </strong></p>
<p>The Elroq, Škoda’s second electric car to be built on the Volkswagen Group’s innovative MEB platform, saw off tough competition on a five-car shortlist to be named as the very best in its sector. The judging panel, made up of industry experts and experienced reviewers, praised the Elroq’s practicality and design as well as its impressive efficiency.</p>
<p>Commenting on the Elroq’s win, Business Car Editor Martyn Collins, said: “The Elroq follows on from the excellent Enyaq EV, a previous multi-award winner at the Business Car Awards. The Elroq’s exterior design is an attractive mixture of current family styling cues together with Škoda’s new face. This Škoda’s interior is spacious, the range and charging are competitive, and the pricing attractive.”</p>
<p>For more than 20 years, the Business Car Awards have recognised excellence in the automotive fleet sector and are an established event in the fleet manager’s calendar. The fleet market has also always been an important one for Škoda, with the brand’s famed value for money and practicality being particularly attractive to fleet buyers and business car drivers. The Enyaq was named overall Business Car of the Year in 2021 – winning its category in 2021 and 2024 – while the Superb and Octavia have both been selected as category winners.</p>
<p>Launched earlier this year, the Elroq is the first all-electric Škoda model to compete in the compact SUV sector – one of the biggest segments of the new car market. Available with three battery size options; 55 kWh, 63 kWh and 82 kWh, the Elroq offers a driving range of up to 356 miles (Elroq Edition 85). The line-up has recently expanded to include a range-topping vRS model that features an output of 340 PS and all-wheel drive.</p>
<p>A full database of images and media assets relating to the Elroq and all other Škoda models can be found at <a href="https://www.skodamedia.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.skodamedia.com</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Collection of coveted supercars leads final entries for Broad Arrow’s inaugural Zoute Concours Auction</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/22/collection-of-coveted-supercars-leads-final-entries-for-broad-arrows-inaugural-zoute-concours-auction/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2025 08:02:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8692</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[THE ALEGGRIA COLLECTION FEATURES SEVEN HIGHLY DESIRABLE SUPERCARS INCLUDING BUGATTI EB110 GT,FERRARI F40 AND PORSCHE 959 KOMFORT OTHER STARS OF THE AUCTION INCLUDE VERDE PINO FERRARI 275 GTB/4, DANIEL RICCIARDO’S ASTON MARTIN VALKYRIE,ONE-OFF TRANSFORMERS BUGATTI VEYRON 16.4 GRAND SPORT VITESSE, LAMBORGHINI PREGUNTA CONCEPT AND MORE AUCTION TO TAKE PLACE ON 10 OCTOBER 2025 IN COLLABORATION WITH ZOUTE [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>THE ALEGGRIA COLLECTION FEATURES SEVEN HIGHLY DESIRABLE SUPERCARS INCLUDING BUGATTI EB110 GT,<br />FERRARI F40 AND PORSCHE 959 KOMFORT</strong></p>
<p><strong>OTHER STARS OF THE AUCTION INCLUDE VERDE PINO FERRARI 275 GTB/4, DANIEL RICCIARDO’S ASTON MARTIN VALKYRIE,<br />ONE-OFF TRANSFORMERS BUGATTI VEYRON </strong><strong>16.4 GRAND SPORT VITESSE, </strong><strong>LAMBORGHINI PREGUNTA CONCEPT AND MORE</strong></p>
<p><strong>AUCTION TO TAKE PLACE ON 10 OCTOBER 2025 IN COLLABORATION WITH ZOUTE GRAND PRIX CAR WEEK</strong></p>
<p><strong>BICESTER, United Kingdom (19 September 2025)</strong> &#8211; <strong>Broad Arrow Auctions, a Hagerty company (NYSE: HGTY)</strong>, is proud to present its exceptional catalogue of collector cars for the inaugural <a href="https://www.broadarrowauctions.com/events/event/Zoute%20Concours%20Auction%202025" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Zoute Concours Auction</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p>The <a href="https://online.fliphtml5.com/kfgkh/xrth" target="_blank" rel="noopener">catalogue</a> features over 75 highly desirable models from across motoring history, alongside a selection of sought-after memorabilia items, with latest entries led by supercars from <strong>The Aleggria Collection</strong>. This prestigious ensemble of automobiles is offered from a single private owner who has curated an exceptional group of best-of-category cars. The group is led by an incredibly<strong> </strong>original, low-mileage ‘non-cat, non-adjust’ specification <strong>1990 Ferrari F40, </strong>a rare Graphite Metallic <strong>1987 Porsche 959 Komfort</strong>, and a carefully preserved <strong>1992 Bugatti EB110 GT</strong> in timeless Bugatti Blu over Grigio Chiaro leather.</p>
<p>The Aleggria Collection joins <strong>Daniel Ricciardo’s Aston Martin Valkyrie</strong>, personally commissioned and consigned by the former F1 driver, the breathtaking <strong>1998 Lamborghini Pregunta</strong> concept car, the famous one-off Transformers themed <strong>2015 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse</strong>, and motorsport stars of track and stage, including the <strong>1976 24 Hours of Spa-winning BMW 3.0 CSL</strong>, the ultimate track-only 911, <strong>a </strong><strong>2024 Porsche 911 GT3 R rennsport,</strong> and an extremely rare <strong>Group B Citroën BX 4TC</strong>.</p>
<p>These historically significant cars will be offered at Broad Arrow’s inaugural Zoute Concours Auction on <strong>10 October 2025 at Approach Golf in Knokke-Heist, held in collaboration with Zoute Grand Prix Car Week.</strong></p>
<p>“Our Zoute Concours Auction is generating tremendous excitement in the car collecting community,” says <strong>Joe Twyman, VP of Sales for Broad Arrow’s EMEA Region</strong>. “The Aleggria Collection adds to a catalogue of motoring heroes that we are honoured to present to collectors. To be able to offer such rare models as Daniel Ricciardo’s personal Aston Martin Valkyrie, the truly unique Lamborghini Pregunta concept, along with desirable supercars, classics, and motorsport stars, and a number of cars offered without reserve, means we have something for every collector of fine automobiles.”</p>
<p><strong>The Aleggria Collection<br /></strong>This impressive European collection features seven of the greatest and most desirable sports and supercars of all time, each curated for its standout specification, originality, and superb ‘on the button’ condition. The collection includes:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>1990 Ferrari F40 (Estimate: €3.000.000 &#8211; €3.200.000).</strong> This Classiche-certified F40 is one of the highly desirable ‘non-cat, non-adjust’ specification examples and has been meticulously maintained with just over 10,000km on the clock.</li>
<li><strong>1987 Porsche 959 Komfort (Estimate: €1.700.000 &#8211; €1.900.000).</strong> Regarded as one of the dream cars of the 1980s, this Porsche 959 is one of only 266 Komfort models. Making it rarer still is the fact that it is finished in Graphite Metallic.</li>
<li><strong>1992 Bugatti EB110 GT (Estimate: €1.500.000 &#8211; €1.800.000</strong>). Debuting in 1991, the EB110 set the course for today’s modern era of Bugatti. Undoubtedly one of the great supercars of the 1990s, only 84 GT versions were built. This highly original example has covered just 8,208km.</li>
<li><strong>2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 S (Estimate: €700.000 &#8211; €800.000).</strong> One of only 150 722 S Roadsters produced to celebrate Sir Stirling Moss’ victory at the 1955 Mille Miglia, this Crystal Palladium Grey example has travelled only 6,869km.</li>
<li><strong>2018 Porsche 911 Turbo S TECHART GTstreet R Cabriolet (Estimate: </strong><strong>€325.000 &#8211; €400.000</strong><strong>).</strong> One of just 87 GTstreet R Coupes and Cabriolets produced, this example is finished in Carrara White Metallic with extensive use of carbon-fiber and Lava Orange accents throughout. It is powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter flat-six with TECHART TA092/T2.1 tuning rated at 800 PS and mated to a seven-speed PDK transmission.</li>
<li><strong>2019 Porsche 911 Speedster Heritage Design Package (Estimate: </strong><strong>€270.000 &#8211; €300.000</strong><strong>).</strong> A low-mileage example exquisitely finished in GT Silver Metallic with White classic-inspired graphics over a Black and Cognac leather interior.</li>
<li><strong>2017 McLaren 675LT Spider (Estimate: €200.000 &#8211; €300.000).</strong> A highly optioned, two-owner example finished in exclusive Titanium Silver over a McLaren Orange interior.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Daniel Ricciardo’s Aston Martin Valkyrie (Estimate: €2.400.000 &#8211; €2.800.000)<br /></strong>Commissioned by Daniel Ricciardo when he was driving for the Red Bull Racing F1 team, this Aston Martin Valkyrie has been part of his personal collection since he received it in 2023. Described by Ricciardo as looking like a race car and feeling like a race car, the Valkyrie has stunned the hypercar world with its incredible performance that can be unleashed on track one moment, before driving home on public roads the next. This unique Valkyrie has driven only 160km and features over £140,000 worth of options including its Badger Blue paintwork, a colour chosen by Ricciardo that reflects his nickname as the ‘Honey Badger’.</p>
<p><strong>1998 Lamborghini Pregunta Concept (Estimate: €2.500.000 &#8211; €3.500.000)<br /></strong>In 1998, Lamborghini had just been purchased by the Volkswagen Group, to be integrated under the Audi umbrella. Before the Group embarked on a strategy of sharing platforms, Lamborghini debuted one final pure Sant’Agata concept, the Pregunta. Based on the Diablo, it featured a striking design inspired by the French Dassault Rafale fighter jet and its performance was equally impressive. This little-known and genuinely unique concept has not been offered for sale for over a decade, making its presence in the Zoute Concours Auction a very special moment for international collectors.</p>
<p><strong>Motorsport Stars of Track and Rally Stage<br /></strong>Among the motorsport stars in the Zoute Concours Auction catalogue is the <strong>1976 24 Hours of Spa-winning BMW 3.0 CSL Group 2</strong> that also won its class at Le Mans in the same year. Other stars include a <strong>Group 4 specification 1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Competizione</strong>, an iconic <strong>1976 Lancia Stratos</strong> <strong>HF Group 4 Specification</strong>, a concours-condition, Works <strong>1976 Fiat 131 Abarth Rally Group 4</strong> driven by Markku Alén, a <strong>1989 Lancia Delta</strong> <strong>HF Integrale 8V Martini Lancia Works “Safari” Group A, </strong>and a very rare <strong>Group B</strong> <strong>1985 Citroën BX 4TC </strong>with just 190km from new, gifted by Citroën to renowned F1 and endurance driver Jean-Pierre Beltoise. For motorsport collectors, these represent a fantastic opportunity to enhance even the greatest collection.</p>
<p>Additional highlights of the Zoute Concours Auction include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 (Estimate:</strong> <strong>€2.700.000 &#8211; €3.200.000). </strong>An award-winning, Ferrari Classiche certified, fully matching-numbers example in original and rare colours of Verde Pino (Pine Green) over an Arancia (Orange) Connolly leather interior.</li>
<li><strong>2015 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse ‘Transformers’ (</strong><strong>Estimate: €1.900.000 &#8211; €2.300.000)</strong>. A meticulously maintained example of the mere 92 Grand Sport Vitesse examples built; this is the famous one-off Transformers themed commission. Formerly a part of the Aleggria Collection, this is a one-of-a-kind example of the most coveted Veyron variant, a model currently seeing strong demand from today’s most active buyers.</li>
<li><strong>2023 Ferrari 812 Competizione (Estimate: €1.500.000 &#8211; €1.800.000).</strong> A highly specified, low-mileage, Ferrari Classiche certified example exquisitely finished in Verde British Racing (Green) with a vibrant Giallo Fly (Yellow) livery and extensive exterior carbon fiber.</li>
<li><strong>2024 Porsche 911 GT3 R Rennsport (Estimate: </strong><strong>€1.400.000 &#8211; €1.700.000). </strong>One of just 77 limited-production serialized examples based on the 911 GT3 R. The ultimate track-only 911 customer race car built without regard to rules and regulations.</li>
<li><strong>2005 Porsche Carrera GT </strong><strong>(Estimate: €1.350.000 &#8211; €1.550.000). </strong>A superbly preserved example finished in rarely seen Seal Grey Metallic over an Ascot Brown/Black leather interior.</li>
<li><strong>1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster </strong><strong>(Estimate: €1.100.000 &#8211; €1.400.000).</strong> A matching numbers, ultimate “iron-block, disc brake” example wearing incredibly preserved 1970s paint retaining a beautiful patina.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Offered Without Reserve<br /></strong>Broad Arrow Auctions is proud to present 26 desirable collector cars offered without reserve at the Zoute Concours Auction. These models represent an exceptional opportunity for new and established collectors and include some truly remarkable automobiles:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>2004 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Roadster Prototype (</strong><strong>Estimate: €100.000 &#8211; €200.000). </strong>A one-off, fully drivable and road-registered prototype finished in stunning Aysgarth Blue over Red leather.</li>
<li><strong>A trio of cars formerly under the stewardship of once Lord Mayor of London, Sir Clive Martin,</strong> led by a <strong>1930 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 (</strong><strong>Estimate: €150.000 &#8211; €250.000).</strong> Beautifully restored and suitable for numerous international racing and touring events.</li>
<li><strong>1974 BMW 2002 Turbo (</strong><strong>Estimate: €80.000 &#8211; €130.000). </strong>One of only a handful delivered new to Belgium and offered this fall from just three owners since new.</li>
<li><strong>1966 Ferrari 330 GTC (Estimate: </strong><strong>€450.000 &#8211; €550.000).</strong> Delivered new to Switzerland and presented in its desirable Azzurro (Blue) and Beige factory livery.</li>
<li><strong>2023 Porsche Cayman GT4 RS Weissach (</strong><strong>Estimate: €100.000 &#8211; €150.000). </strong>A Belgian-market example offered from its original owner with just 55km at the time of cataloguing.</li>
<li><strong>1954 Arnolt-Bristol Bolide (Estimate: €250.000 &#8211; €350.000)</strong>. A previous Mille Miglia participant, this is one of only 142 Arnolt-Bristols produced. This beautifully restored, matching-numbers Franco Scaglione masterpiece is finished in stunning sea-green.</li>
</ul>
<p>“We are truly excited to present the final catalogue for our inaugural Zoute Concours Auction,” says <strong>Gregory Tuytens</strong><strong>, Head of Consignments in Belgium and the Netherlands for Broad Arrow</strong>. “We have assembled some of the greatest cars ever made, not only for their design, performance or timeless appeal, but also for their desirable specifications and incredible provenance. We are very proud to be able to offer these cars to international collectors in order that each one may write a new chapter.”</p>
<p>The Broad Arrow Zoute Concours Auction, in association with Zoute Grand Prix Week, will take place on Friday 10 October at 16:00 (CET). Auction Previews will be held from 8-10 October and additional information is available at <a href="http://broadarrowauctions.com/">broadarrowauctions.com</a>. Members of the press interested in attending the preview and auction are invited to contact a member of the Broad Arrow press team. Additional high-res images of all cars on offer are available upon request. The complete digital catalogue for the Zoute Concours Auction is available <a href="https://online.fliphtml5.com/kfgkh/xrth"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Aston Martin Valkyrie continues IMSA season at world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/19/aston-martin-valkyrie-continues-imsa-season-at-world-famous-indianapolis-motor-speedway/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 20:01:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8680</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Aston Martin Valkyrie’s IMSA Weathertech Sports Car Championship programme arrives at North America’s most famous racing venue Valkyrie is the only road-derived hypercar to contest the world’s two premier sportscar series, IMSA and the FIA World Endurance Championship, in 2025 After six straight top-10 finishes, Ross Gunn and Roman De Angelis target more progress at [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<ul>
<li><strong>Aston Martin Valkyrie’s IMSA Weathertech Sports Car Championship programme arrives at North America’s most famous racing venue</strong></li>
<li><strong>Valkyrie is the only road-derived hypercar to contest the world’s two premier sportscar series, IMSA and the FIA World Endurance Championship, in 2025</strong></li>
<li><strong>After six straight top-10 finishes, Ross Gunn and Roman De Angelis target more progress at latest round of continent’s top sportscar racing series</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>17 September, 2025, Indianapolis, USA:</em> Fresh from its best result to date, the spectacular Aston Martin Valkyrie roars towards the climax of its debut season of global competition this weekend as the IMSA Weathertech Sports Car Championship (IMSA) continues with the Tirerack.com Battle on the Bricks at the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IN).</p>
<p>Valkyrie’s debut US campaign, masterminded by the works Aston Martin THOR team, reached its highest point so far, last time out at Road America. The British ultra-luxury high-performance brand’s all-new Valkyrie achieved its first top six finish after a strong weekend.</p>
<p>With just two races of the 2025 IMSA season – North America’s premier sportscar championship – remaining, the target is to continue the car’s increasingly competitive form and finish the year on a high.</p>
<p>Indianapolis represents the fourth event of the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup – a series comprising the five races of more than the standard two-hour, forty-minute duration. Valkyrie made its IMSA debut at the second of these; the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, in March, and also performed well at the Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen at Watkins Glen in July.</p>
<p>Drivers Roman De Angelis (CAN) and Ross Gunn (GBR), have contested each IMSA event at ‘The Brickyard’ since its 2.4-mile road course was re-introduced to the series in 2023. On each occasion both drivers were behind the wheel of The Heart of Racing (THOR) Team’s Aston Martin Vantage GT3s. Gunn secured a runner-up finish in IMSA’s GTD Pro class in 2023 and a fifth-place result last year while De Angelis was fourth in the GTD class (for GT3 cars) in 2023 and sixth the following season after moving into GTD Pro. </p>
<p>The only entry derived from a road-going hypercar competing in either IMSA or the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), Valkyrie is developed from its production version by Aston Martin and THOR. The competition example 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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><strong>Ross Gunn, driver #23 Aston Martin Valkyrie:</strong> “I’m very much looking forward to getting back in the car at Indianapolis. While there has been a big break in the IMSA calendar, The Heart of Racing Team and Aston Martin have worked incredibly hard to push through improvements to the Valkyrie package. It seems it blossoms more with very race it enters. Arriving at the gates of the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a pinch yourself moment, and now we’re coming into the final phase of the season, we’re just focused on improving on our best result at Road America last time out. The aim is to go one better, continue our learnings, and most importantly have some fun!”</p>
<p><strong>Roman De Angelis, driver </strong><strong>#</strong><strong>23 Aston Martin Valkyrie:</strong> “I’m looking forward to getting back to racing after what feels like a long break since Road America. I feel good coming to Indy following our first top-six finish with Valkyrie last time out, a result that did a lot to boost team morale and confidence to fight for an even better result this weekend. It’s been nice to have some time off to prepare as much as I can for the six hours of racing we have ahead of us and I’m very much looking forward to getting back to work with Aston Martin Team THOR.”</p>
<p><strong>Ian James, Team Principal, Aston Martin THOR Team:</strong> “The progress we’re making with Valkyrie in both IMSA and the FIA World Endurance Championship is clear to see. At Road America we had our most competitive race to date and finished in the top six for the first time thanks to some very good strategy calls and the consistency of performance we’re achieving with the car. This weekend we have the honour of bringing Valkyrie to one of the most famous racing venues in the world, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and we’re aiming to continue the constant improvements we’ve been experiencing in what’s sure to be the first of two hugely challenging races at the end of the car’s debut IMSA season.” </p>
<p><strong>Adam Carter, Aston Martin Head of Endurance Motorsport:</strong> “With just two IMSA races to go of Valkyrie’s debut season, the progress both the car and the Aston Martin THOR team have made in 2025 has been consistent and encouraging. This was illustrated well by the programme’s first top-six finish last time out at Road America; Valkyrie’s sixth top-10 result in a row. Despite it being the newest GTP car, Valkyrie has been extremely reliable and performed well in the long ‘endurance’ races on circuits as challenging as Sebring and Watkins Glen. We aim to continue that progress through the final races as we push for constant improvement.”</p>
<p><img decoding="async" src="https://newspressuk.com/assets/OriginalVariantsStg/971664b4-f2e8-a854-b9e8-2d8f883f6c83.png" alt="" width="196" height="122" /></p>
<div>
<p><strong>Vantage bids for glory at legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Heart of Racing Team resumes IMSA Weathertech Sports Car Championship GTD title fight at Tirerack.com Battle on the Bricks at IMS</strong></li>
<li><strong>Zacharie Robichon re-joins THOR Team regulars Tom Gamble and Casper Stevenson as trio bid to increase Michelin Endurance Cup points lead</strong></li>
<li><strong>Brazilian Eduardo Barrichello makes IMSA debut alongside Valentin Hasse Clot and Anthony McIntosh in Van der Steur Racing Vantage</strong></li>
<li><strong>Barrichello arrival completes line-up that has already finished on FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) podium in 2025</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>While Valkyrie contests the IMSA Weathertech Sports Car Championship’s GTP division at the Tirerack.com Battle on the Bricks, Aston Martin is also set to fight for victory in the GTD category as the latest iteration of Aston Martin’s most successful racing car – the Vantage GT3 – is fielded by The Heart of Racing (THOR).</p>
<p>Sharing the mechanical architecture of the ultra-luxury Vantage road car, the Vantage GT3, which triumphed at last year’s 24 Hours of Spa – the world’s most prestigious GT3-only event, is built around Aston Martin’s proven bonded aluminium chassis and powered by its fearsome twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine.</p>
<p>Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s 2.4-mile road course, on which Sunday’s six-hour race will be held, and the season-ending Michelin Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta, will not only be crucial in deciding the identity of the 2025 IMSA GTD champions, but also the winners of the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup (IMEC).</p>
<p>THOR currently lead the Teams’ title race in the IMEC while Casper Stevenson (GBR), Aston Martin works racer Tom Gamble (GBR) and Zacharie Robichon (CAN) are on top in the Drivers’ championship battle following an excellent victory in the Sahlen’s Six Hours of the Glen at Watkins Glen (NY) in July.</p>
<p>Former IMSA GTD champion Robichon, who is only contesting the IMEC races this year, returns to the line-up alongside full-season regulars Stevenson and Gamble, at Indianapolis. Stevenson, meanwhile, is second in the overall IMSA GTD Drivers’ points table following a third-place finish alongside Gamble at Virginia International Raceway last time out.</p>
<p>Van der Steur Racing, which is contesting only the five IMEC races in 2025, returns for the first time since Watkins Glen with its Vantage GT3 and an exciting addition to its driver line-up. Eduardo Barrichello (BRA) joins the team for Indianapolis, substituting for Rory van der Steur (USA), who is recovering from an injury sustained in a mountain-biking accident last week. The 19-year-old Brazilian wowed his home crowd in last month’s FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) 6 Hours of Sao Paulo at Interlagos as he took a maiden LMGT3 pole position and then finished on the series podium for the first time alongside team-mates Anthony McIntosh (USA) and Aston Martin works driver Valentin Hasse Clot (FRA). His arrival means that this successful partnership is revived with McIntosh and Hasse Clot both part of Van der Steur’s IMEC programme this year as well.</p>
<p><strong>How to follow<br /></strong>The Tirerack.com Battle on the Bricks will begin at 1140 local time (+5 Hours BST) on Sunday, 21 September 2025. It will be broadcast live globally on <a href="https://www.imsa.com/tvlive/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IMSA TV</a> and on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@imsaofficial" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IMSA YouTube</a> channel and via selected broadcasters at a national level.</p>
</div>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>More than one-third of car buyers &#8211; and half of Londoners &#8211; are more likely to buy an EV following the introduction of Electric Car Grant</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/19/more-than-one-third-of-car-buyers-and-half-of-londoners-are-more-likely-to-buy-an-ev-following-the-introduction-of-electric-car-grant/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 18:01:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electric Car Grant UK]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jason Plato EV insights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Londoners switching to electric]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Renault 4 and Renault 5 prices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Renault EV range]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Renault Megane and Scenic electric]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rnlt Battersea Power Station store]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UK EV adoption survey 2025]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8678</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Car brand Renault reveals 35% of Brits are more likely to switch to electric following the introduction of the Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) – with Londoners topping the charts, as 55% say they are more likely to switch Those aged 17-34 are most likely to make the switch in the next two years, with [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<ul>
<li><strong>Car brand Renault reveals 35% of Brits are more likely to switch to electric following the introduction of the Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) – with Londoners topping the charts, as 55% say they are more likely to switch</strong></li>
<li><strong>Those aged 17-34 are most likely to make the switch in the next two years, with 85% saying they are likely do so, while over 55s are the most reluctant to make the transition, with just 27% saying they are likely to do so; meanwhile attitudinal gap between men and women highlights differing concerns</strong></li>
<li><strong>Motoring expert and champion racing driver Jason Plato describes the survey as “extremely encouraging” as he highlights benefits and misconceptions of electric motoring</strong></li>
<li><strong>This week, Renault is opening a new brand store, called rnlt, in Battersea Power Station retail centre, dedicated to highlighting its electric car range</strong></li>
<li><strong>Every Renault car &#8211; Renault 4, Renault 5, Renault Megane and Renault Scenic – is available now with a £1500 Electric Car Grant saving. Find out more at </strong><a href="https://www.renault.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>renault.co.uk</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p>More than one-in-three* British drivers say they are more likely to buy an electric car following the introduction of the Electric Car Grant (ECG) last month – with Londoners now the most likely to switch regionally, as more than half say they will do so as a result of the new savings on offer from the Government scheme.</p>
<p>The survey, conducted by car brand Renault ahead of the grand opening of its EV-only showroom at Battersea Power Station’s shopping centre in West London today, revealed that 35% of those polled from across the country said they are more likely to make the switch as a result of the financial incentives available on electric cars that qualify for the ECG. Most likely to switch are Londoners, with 54% saying the will do so.</p>
<p>All four of Renault’s electric vehicles are eligible for a £1500 grant saving: Renault 4, Renault 5, Renault Megane and Renault Scenic. Reacting to the survey, motoring expert and championship-winning racing driver Jason Plato said: “More and more people are switching on to the benefits of electric motoring, and these results highlight how, when great savings are available on great cars, the grant is working to persuade buyers to move to electric.”</p>
<p>Nationally, 55% of those surveyed said they expected to buy an electric car within the next two years, underlining a sharp rise in intent even over recent rising trends; in 2024, 19.6% of all new car registrations were electric, while so far in 2025 so far 21.9% of new car registrations have been for electric vehicles.</p>
<p>The survey also revealed a significant generational difference in attitudes to buying an EV. Younger adults aged 17-34 were by far the most likely demographic to make the switch in the next two years, with 85% saying they would do so. Across all age ranges, those living in Greater London once again topped the poll, with 80% saying they were likely to make the switch to electric within the next two years.</p>
<p>In contrast, just 27% of those aged over 55 said they were likely to switch to an electric car in the next two years. Greater range (45%), more charging points (47%) and lower starting prices (34%) were the main needs for this age group, whereas for the youngest age group surveyed, 17-24, the ability to charge quickly was rated as the biggest desire (48%), followed by longer battery range (39%) and the availability of more public charging points (36%).</p>
<p>Notably just 46% of women compared to 63% of men described themselves as very likely to make the switch to an electric car in the next two years. Lower prices (46% vs 41%) and a greater availability of used electric cars (13% vs 11%) were areas of the market that concerned women more than men.</p>
<p>“I believe that education is key to accelerating interest in electric car buying,” said Plato. “While we have to respect people’s concerns, many of them are looking outdated as some of the latest cars to be launched offer incredible technology at great value, including long battery range and running costs that mean they can be much cheaper to own over their lifetime than a car with an engine.”</p>
<p>Underlining his commitment to electric motoring, Plato will be making an appearance at Renault’s new store in Battersea Power Station’s retail centre, called rnlt, on September 18.</p>
<p>The concept store has been designed to give visitors an easy, informative introduction to the brand’s award-winning electric car range, as well as showcasing the Renault 5 Turbo 3E concept, a supercar for the electric age, from September 19–21 only. The car, which ran at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year, is affectionately known as Drifter, thanks to its incredible power and rally-inspired looks.</p>
<p>After receiving the £1500 Electric Car Grant saving, prices for Renault’s electric vehicles, available from its retailers, are:</p>
<p><strong>Renault 4</strong> – from £25,495<br /><strong>Renault 5</strong> – from £21,495<br /><strong>Renault Megane</strong> – from £30,995<br /><strong>Renault Scenic</strong> – from £35,495</p>
<p><strong>By region &#8211; Proportion of those surveyed very likely to buy an EV in the next two years<br /></strong>(NB Figures are rounded up but listed in precise order)</p>
<ol>
<li>Greater London 80%</li>
<li>Northern Ireland 62%</li>
<li>North West 59%</li>
<li>West Midlands 56%</li>
<li>East Midalnds 54%</li>
<li>Scotland 54%</li>
<li>North East 53%</li>
<li>Wales 48%</li>
<li>East of England 45%</li>
<li>Yorkshire &amp; Humber 45%</li>
<li>South East 45%</li>
<li>South West 39%</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>ABOUT THE SURVEY<br /></strong>*Survey conducted by Opinion Matters from 29<sup>th</sup> August to 2<sup>nd</sup> September 2025. 2004 UK car drivers aged 17+ were surveyed. Full survey details including full gender and regional breakdowns are available on request.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>In the SportLine of Duty: Škoda Superb model approved for emergency service deployment</title>
		<link>https://leaseconnect.co.uk/2025/09/19/in-the-sportline-of-duty-skoda-superb-model-approved-for-emergency-service-deployment/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:01:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Motoring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retail]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://leaseconnect.co.uk/?p=8673</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Superb SportLine Estate 2.0 TSI 265PS DSG 4&#215;4 passes thorough Met Police Brake Test Estate model combines strong performance with exceptional practicality Load space of up to 1,920 litres in Estate form 4&#215;4 DSG transmission gives enhanced traction in difficult conditions   Milton Keynes, 18 September 2025: Škoda continues to strengthen its reputation as the [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<ul>
<li><strong>Superb SportLine Estate 2.0 TSI 265PS DSG 4&#215;4 passes thorough Met Police Brake Test</strong></li>
<li><strong>Estate model combines strong performance with exceptional practicality</strong></li>
<li><strong>Load space of up to 1,920 litres in Estate form</strong></li>
<li><strong>4&#215;4 DSG transmission gives enhanced traction in difficult conditions  </strong></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Milton Keynes, 18 September 2025: Škoda continues to strengthen its reputation as the go-to choice for the UK’s emergency services, following approval for the fourth-generation Superb Estate variant. Over the past two decades, Škoda models have become a familiar sight on Britain’s roads, trusted by police, ambulance, and fire crews for their ability to handle demanding conditions with confidence. Demonstrating its commitment to engineering excellence, the fourth-generation Škoda Superb SportLine Estate 2.0 TSI 265PS DSG 4&#215;4 variant has successfully completed the Metropolitan Police’s demanding brake test, securing official approval for operational deployment across the force. </strong></p>
<p>Building on the strong legacy of its predecessor, which served extensively in specialist roles such as motorway patrol and armed response and even formed the basis for a fully armoured variant used in high-security applications, the new Superb brings a refined balance of space, safety, and efficiency to emergency fleets. After undergoing a comprehensive evaluation process, the Škoda Superb SportLine Estate 2.0 TSI 265PS DSG 4&#215;4 variant has now received full approval for operational deployment across the emergency services.</p>
<p>Beyond its obvious performance credentials – it can sprint from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 155mph – and the Superb delivers exceptional practicality and comfort. The Estate features a 690-litre boot, extendable to 1,920 litres with the seats folded. The model offers ample room for essential equipment while its high payload capacity &#8211; 512 &#8211; 652kg &#8211; further highlights the Superb Estate’s versatility for demanding emergency roles.</p>
<p>Emergency services personnel will also benefit from a range of advanced features designed to enhance safety and ease of operation. The SportLine model comes with LED Matrix beam headlights, Blind Spot Detection with door exit warning, Dynamic Chassis Control Plus and Tri-zone climate control as standard, along with Crew protect assist, rear-view camera and Progressive dynamic steering. </p>
<p>To gain approval for operational use, the Superb SportLine Estate underwent the Metropolitan Police Brake Test, widely recognised as the most stringent evaluation in the industry. Designed to replicate the high-speed challenges emergency drivers encounter daily, the test subjects vehicles to repeated stops from top speeds, pushing every component to its limits. Passing this test underscores Škoda’s reputation for producing vehicles that are ready for duty from day one.</p>
<p>Škoda’s collaboration with UK emergency services spans over 20 years. The Octavia has long been a mainstay in police fleets, valued for its mix of performance, spaciousness, and cost efficiency, while the Superb has proven itself as a motorway-cruising favourite, ideal for roles requiring comfort, durability, and long-range capability. More recently, the Kodiaq and Enyaq have added SUV flexibility and electrified options to the fleet, performing reliably across both urban and rural environments. This enduring track record cements Škoda as one of the UK’s most trusted names in emergency service mobility.</p>
<p>For more information on Škoda’s Emergency Services fleet models, please visit <a href="https://www.skoda.co.uk/fleet/emergency-services" target="_blank" rel="noopener">skoda.co.uk/fleet/emergency-services</a>, or contact the team directly at <a href="mailto:emergencyservicessupply@vwg-uk.co.uk">emergencyservicessupply@vwg-uk.co.uk</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
