Honda’s all-new Prelude e:HEV sports coupe has arrived in Europe, allying an advanced hybrid powertrain and innovative Honda S+ Shift with a striking design approach to deliver the ‘joy of driving’ for which the model has always been known.

Returning after 25 years away, the sixth-generation model’s exterior design is inspired by the timeless grace and elegance of gliders, while the compelling combination of engaging handling and dynamics is reminiscent of an acrobatic flight. This has been made possible thanks to the vehicle’s wide, low stance, which is complimented by suspension technology from the Civic Type R, plus adaptive dampers and the latest iteration of Honda’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA).

This approach extends to the welcoming interior, which echoes that of a glider’s cockpit, seamlessly combining comfort and practicality with premium materials and the driver-assistance safety system, Honda SENSING – delivering an exhilarating experience to Prelude drivers.

Hans de Jaeger, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, said: “The Honda Prelude’s return has been eagerly anticipated by driving enthusiasts around the world since we first exhibited the concept model back in October 2023. This nameplate has always been a showcase for cutting-edge and innovative engineering, and this latest iteration is no exception. With its graceful design, innovative Honda S+ Shift and cutting edge full-hybrid powertrain, both drivers and passengers will never want their journey to end.”

Honda S+ Shift
Simulating the sound, feel and driver engagement of quick automatic gear changes, Honda S+ Shift helps the Prelude deliver a new dimension in exhilarating driving pleasure. The latest development of Honda’s Linear Shift Control, the system works in combination with Active Sound Control (ASC) to correlate engine sound, revs and road speed for a more natural feel when accelerating.

This technology has evolved to create a virtual eight-speed transmission that generates an even stronger connection between the car and driver. Controlled via the steering wheel paddles, ordinarily used to control the level of regenerative braking when Honda S+ Shift is not engaged, this allows the driver to shift through the gears as per a manual transmission. When changing down, drivers will also experience a comforting engine braking effect, providing even greater throttle control and a rev-matching throttle ‘blip’ to match.

Advanced e:HEV powertrain
Utilising more than 25 years of hybrid experience, the Prelude features Honda’s full hybrid e:HEV powertrain. Pairing a 2.0-litre petrol engine with the company’s lightweight dual electric motor automatic transmission, the 184PS (135kW) system offers true driver exhilaration with responsive power delivery, excellent efficiency and superb refinement.

There is also a unique array of drive modes to choose from, which can be used to seamlessly switch between four options at the touch of a button – ‘Comfort’, ‘GT’, ‘Sport’, and ‘Individual’ – each of which fine-tunes the characteristics of the hybrid powertrain, suspension and steering response to suit the driver’s needs.

Exceptional handling, effortless comfort, and practicality
Developed to deliver superior levels of performance, dynamic response, and feedback in all driving situations, the new Prelude features suspension technology from the legendary Civic Type R. Engineered to provide a balance of agile handling and comfort, the Prelude uses an advanced multi-link suspension set-up, adaptive dampers and the latest generation of Honda’s AHA.

Once inside, the interior has been created to deliver a driver-focused feeling of control and exceptional visibility, featuring high quality materials and an uncluttered layout that allows occupants to enjoy the vehicle’s careful craftsmanship. Including a choice between a pair of exclusive two-tone material finishes that feature either a white-and-blue or black-and-blue theme.

This is typified by a customisable 10.2-inch driver display that features unique Prelude graphics and coloured themes tailored to each drive mode. There is also the latest in connectivity with Honda’s responsive nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay, with wireless connectivity, and Android Auto, alongside a rich and powerful eight-speaker audio system jointly developed with Bose.

Despite its sleek exterior profile, the new Prelude offers both space and usability, with seating for four occupants, alongside a large hatchback tailgate that opens to reveal up to 663-litres of luggage space. Customers can also choose from four exterior colour options, including a new rich Moonlit White Pearl, plus Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Racing Blue Pearl.
Safety is also a high priority, with the latest Honda SENSING system carefully tuned to deliver enhanced driver support. In addition, the Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation System and Lane Keeping Assist System have been carefully recalibrated to suit the model’s more dynamic character – typifying the attention to detail that is apparent throughout the all-new Prelude e:HEV.

The film stars acclaimed Hollywood actor Alexander Skarsgård, who drives a Polestar 3 himself since 2024. Produced entirely by Polestar’s in-house creative team, the film offers an immersive look at the design, innovation, and performance that define the brand’s flagship Grand Tourer. Set against a minimalist backdrop, the film offers a cinematic introduction to the all-new Polestar 5, inviting viewers to experience the future of electric performance.

Skarsgård, known from Murderbot, Pillion, Succession, Big Little Lies and more, guides viewers through the key features of the Polestar 5 – an electric Grand Tourer that perfectly embodies Polestar’s performance vision in a single car. The Polestar 5 is built on the bespoke Polestar Performance Architecture (PPA) using bonded aluminium to provide supercar-level torsional rigidity, increased safety, and lighter weight than steel. With dual motors, including an in-house developed rear unit, featuring 650 kW of power, 1,015 Nm of torque, an 800 V electrical architecture, and a host of sustainable innovations, Polestar 5 is proof that there is a better alternative for automotive.

“Fantastic. Tomorrow’s not dead yet,” states Skarsgård’s character, emphasising the fact that with Polestar 5, the future is already here.

The film is now live on Polestar’s official channels. Watch the full film here: https://youtu.be/d6ZIKNEwp6U

Key features of the recently launched Polestar 5 include:

•Design: Born from the Precept concept, showcasing future design, technology, and sustainability — now a production reality.

•Platform: Bespoke Polestar Performance Architecture (PPA) with bonded aluminium, providing supercar-level torsional rigidity, increased safety, and lighter weight than steel.

•Chassis: Class-leading engineering with compact double wishbone front suspension and MagneRide adaptive dampers reading the road 1,000 times per second.

•Performance: Dual motors, including an in-house developed rear unit, delivering 650kW and 1,015Nm. 0–100km/h in just 3.2 seconds.

•Sustainability: Polestar 5 consist of 83% aluminium from smelters utilizing renewable electricity and 13% recycled aluminium. The interior features materials such as Bcomp’s natural fibre composite material with Polestar’s signature weave, saving around 40% weight and uses 50% less fossil fuel based materials than traditional plastic.

EMBARGOED 00.01 6 OCTOBER, LONDON UK: More than a third of business owners have seen sick days fall as a result of staff playing sports together, new research has revealed.

The research, from Mercedes-Benz Vans, found 35% of business owners said staff are less likely to take days off sick when they play team sports, while 63% encourage staff to play sports together to make them healthier and happier at work.

In addition half (50%) of business owners said team sports initiatives made their employees more productive and 48% felt team spirit among staff was boosted by taking part in sports together.

Last year 149 million working days were lost due to illness or injury, while latest figures show sick leave and absence costs the UK £103bn per year.

It comes as Mercedes-Benz Vans marks the return of Vantasy Football – the UK’s only football tournament for van drivers.

The tournament, hosted by Chris Kamara, brings teams of drivers and colleagues together in a bid to highlight the benefits of team sport to businesses and employees.

Held at the England team’s training ground St George’s Park in Staffordshire, the tournament sees teams from a cross-section of UK businesses battle it out to be crowned Vantasy Football champions and take home the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Vans Vantasy Football cup.

Sky Sports Legend Chris Kamara said: “Mercedes-Benz Vans has found that team sports reduces sick days at work and drives a better work culture. So the message is clear: Get out playing team sports.

“Being with friends, talking to people and making sure once you finish work you mix with others is so important, particularly for those who spend a lot of time working alone.

“I absolutely agree that more businesses should be encouraging team sports – and if they do this new research shows they are likely to see their productivity improve.”

Ross Baxter, Fleet Manager at medical delivery firm Sciensus, managed a five-a-side team at Vantasy last year.

Following the success of the event, he and his colleagues were so inspired that they set up their own five-a-side football competition – and have since seen sick days fall by 17%.

Ross said: “I can’t explain how positive the players were after the tournament – they said it was fantastic to be a part of something bigger and build a bond with their colleagues.

“We’ve now set up our own annual Sciensus Soccer Saturday, and many of the teams who played together in that now play five-a-side every week.

“It’s created a real sense of community and team spirit, and the feedback has been fantastic.

“We’ve also seen a 17% reduction in sick days taken since the initiative began, and staff turnover has also fallen. We are really thrilled with how positive it has been.”

Iain Forsyth, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans UK said: “It’s clear from our research that team sports are a huge benefit for van drivers – giving them both a way of relieving stress as well as a chance to connect with their team-mates.

“Our research shows 80% of van drivers say playing grassroots team sports has had a positive impact on their mental wellbeing, which in turn has a positive impact on their productivity and the role in the businesses they work for.

“The benefits for team-building and boosting morale are also a valuable insight for business owners. Physical and mental health are critical in any business that operates vans. I’m proud to be leading a business showing the benefits of team sports among our own employees and the businesses we work with.”

Demand for van drivers has exploded in recent years as expectations for home deliveries and online ordering have become baked into everyday life. It’s led to a 37% increase in the number of van drivers on UK roads since 2012.

The Mercedes-Benz Vans research also found team sports had a wider impact on tackling stress and building team rapport.

Over half (57%) drivers said being in a team made up of work colleagues is the most powerful way of relieving tension and stress while a third (33%) said playing team sports with colleagues had changed their perception of a colleague in a positive way.

A similar figure (31%) said they looked on a colleague more favourably after taking part in a sporting activity with them.

Currently 43° · Mostly clear

London, Greater London, United Kingdom

Today	62° 50°	Sun giving way to increasing clouds
Wednesday	65° 51°	Some sunshine giving way to clouds; remaining dry

Whether you’re commuting, planning a school run, or fitting in an evening jog, here’s a clear, SEO-friendly, UK-wide forecast for the next 24 hours. It blends a quick national snapshot with practical regional detail, hour-by-hour trends, and tips for travel, sport, and day-to-day plans.

Key takeaways at a glance

• Mostly dry nationwide with light winds; bright spells today fading to increasing cloud overnight. (See regional sections below.)

• Daytime highs: around 14–18°C north to south; cool this evening/overnight with rural dips to 4–6°C in parts of Scotland and northern England.

• Best of the sunshine: central and southern areas through late morning and early afternoon; cloudier in the far west and far north later.

• Rain risk: very low; a mainly dry picture persists across all nations.

National overview (today to tomorrow morning)

Today brings a settled, early-autumn feel: sunny intervals for many, especially England and Wales, with Scotland and Northern Ireland seeing more variable cloud but still plenty of dry weather. Temperatures lift to the mid-teens Celsius widely, nudging 17–18°C in the southeast. Through the evening, it turns cool and increasingly cloudy, but stays dry almost everywhere. Overnight lows slip to single digits, with the chilliest pockets inland north.

Regional breakdown

South & East England (incl. London, Home Counties, East Anglia)

Expect a bright, mostly dry day with sunshine giving way to patchier cloud later. Highs ~17–18°C; a mild evening compared to the north, ~10–11°C by dawn with light winds—ideal for late errands or an evening jog. UV modest, but sunglasses still handy in the brighter spells.

Travel note: Good visibility and dry roads dominate; watch for a touch of dampness around dawn where cloud thickens.

South West & Wales (incl. Cardiff, Bristol corridor)

A sunny to mostly sunny day across much of Wales and the Severn area, turning a little cloudier late afternoon onward. Highs ~17–18°C, lows ~8–9°C. Coastal breezes are light; surf and coastal walks look pleasant but cool in the evening.

Travel note: Dry conditions dominate; coastal routes see occasional low cloud tonight but no significant hazards expected.

Midlands (incl. Birmingham & surrounding counties)

Plenty of bright spells with some patchy cloud. Highs ~16°C; lows ~7–8°C with a refreshingly cool feel by dawn Wednesday. Winds remain light, making for comfortable commuting and outdoor training sessions.

Travel note: Predominantly dry roads and good visibility; minimal weather-related disruption.

North West England (incl. Manchester, Lancashire, Cumbria)

A day of sunny intervals, staying dry. Highs ~16°C, dipping to 7–8°C tonight. If you’re out late, you’ll want a layer—clearer breaks can allow temperatures to fall a little quicker after sunset.

Travel note: Dry with light winds; early morning commuters may notice a chilly start and a hint of patchy mist in rural spots.

North East England (incl. Newcastle, Durham, Teesside)

A cool, bright day with sunny intervals. Highs ~14–15°C; lows ~5–6°C inland tonight. It’ll feel distinctly autumnal after dark, so wrap up if you’re at midweek training or evening events.

Travel note: Dry and clear for the most part—with that cooler, crisp feel toward dawn.

Scotland (West: Glasgow & the Central Belt)

Cloud and sunny breaks share the skies. Highs ~16–17°C; lows ~5°C in rural spots. Winds light, so it’s a pleasant day for the school run, an urban stroll, or a gentle cycle.

Travel note: Aside from a cooler late night and early morning, no significant weather disruptions expected.

Scotland (East: Edinburgh, Lothians, Fife)

Partly sunny today, with increasing cloud overnight. Highs ~15–16°C, lows near 4–5°C inland—one of the cooler corners by Wednesday dawn. Keep an extra layer for any late-evening outdoor plans.

Travel note: Dry roads and good visibility dominate; a chill by first light could make the bike ride to work brisk.

Northern Ireland (incl. Belfast)

Cloudier overall than much of Britain, though still mainly dry. Highs ~15–16°C; lows ~7–9°C. Some low cloud redevelops later and into Wednesday morning.

Travel note: A grey start/finish, but little in the way of weather-related disruption.

Hour-by-hour trend (typical pattern to expect)

Morning (07:00–11:00):
Cool starts everywhere, locally chilly in northern England and Scotland. Sunshine opens the day for many—particularly England and Wales—with cloudier pockets in the far west and northwest. Winds light.

Afternoon (12:00–16:00):
The mildest part of the day. Expect 14–18°C north-to-south, with bright spells widely. Cloud builds gradually in places, but rain remains unlikely. Outdoor plans look good almost everywhere.

Evening (17:00–21:00):
Light fades, temperatures begin their slide into single digits away from the south and coasts. Cloud increases—first in western and northern fringes—yet staying dry. Ideal for errands, training, and low-impact travel.

Overnight (22:00–07:00):
Cool to locally cold inland north and east; rural lows 4–6°C in spots. Cloudier skies in the west and northwest keep things a touch less chilly there. Still dry.

What this means for your day

Commuting & travel

• Roads: Dry tarmac reduces spray and splash; watch for cool dawn temperatures that can make early starts bite. Rural hollows may see patchy mist for a time where skies clear.

• Rail/air: Low impact from weather; good visibility for much of the day. Cloud thickens later but no major weather-driven delays expected.

• Cycling/scooters: Light winds and dry surfaces are a plus; add a layer for the ride home.

School run & family plans

• Morning layers and a light jacket are sensible; kids heading out to after-school clubs should have a warmer layer for the return trip. Sunhats or sunglasses still useful in brighter southern/eastern areas.

Sport & fitness

• Great conditions for running, football training, and gym commutes: cool, light winds, and dry. Later sessions feel chilly, especially north and east—base layer recommended.

Pet walks & parks

• Morning: crisp but bright; Afternoon: the pick of the day; Evening: cool quickly after sunset—consider reflective gear and a warmer layer.

What to wear & pack

• Layers win: T-shirt plus light sweater/hoodie works well; add a compact jacket for late evening.

• Sunglasses: Still handy in the south/east during brighter spells.

• Hydration & SPF: UV isn’t summer-high, but if you’re outdoors for hours in the sunnier south, basic SPF is sensible.

• Evening extras: Gloves or a warmer mid-layer won’t go amiss for Scotland and northern England after dark.

Gardening & home projects

• Dry windows today and tonight make it a good time for light painting, sanding, and small DIY jobs in sheds/garages.

• Lawn & beds: Dryness favours mowing or edging; cool nights are fine for many early-autumn plantings—just avoid watering late evening to reduce overnight damp chill around tender roots.

Events, retail footfall & outdoor venues (SEO insights)

If you run events, markets, or hospitality:

• Footfall drivers: “Dry and bright,” “sunny intervals,” and “light winds” are persuasive phrases for social captions—accurate for many areas today.

• Best slots for outdoor queues & pop-ups: Late morning to mid-afternoon while the air is mildest and skies brightest.

• Evening trade: Promote cosy, warm-up options (soups, hot drinks) as temperatures dip quickly after sunset, particularly north of the Midlands.

Safety & health checklist

• Cold-sensitive folks (very young, elderly): Have a warm layer to hand for the evening and early morning—the north and east turn chilly.

• Asthma/allergies: Dry and light winds typically limit triggers; some may still feel cool, crisp air in the chest—pace outdoor exercise accordingly.

• Drivers & cyclists at dawn: Watch for brief pockets of mist where skies clear and temps dip; allow extra stopping distance.

City-by-city snapshot (today → early Wed)

• London: Sun giving way to increasing cloud; 17–18°C by afternoon, ~10–11°C overnight; dry, light winds.

• Manchester: Sunny intervals, dry; ~16°C high, ~7–8°C overnight; cool late.

• Birmingham: Bright with patchy cloud; ~16°C high, ~7–8°C low; calm.

• Newcastle: Cool and bright; ~14–15°C high, ~5–6°C low; crisp overnight.

• Cardiff: Mostly sunny; ~17–18°C high, ~8–9°C low; gentle coastal breeze.

• Glasgow: Cloud/sun breaks; ~16–17°C high, ~5°C rural low; dry.

• Edinburgh: Partly sunny, cloudier later; ~15–16°C high, ~4–5°C low inland; bundle up late.

• Belfast: Cloudier overall, still dry; ~15–16°C high, ~7–9°C low; low cloud redevelops.

FAQs (SEO-friendly)

Will it rain in the next 24 hours?
For most places, no—a very low rain risk prevails across the UK through tonight and into Wednesday morning.

How warm will it get today?
Expect mid-teens Celsius widely, peaking 17–18°C in the south and southeast under the brighter spells.

How cold will it be overnight?
Single digits for many, with 4–6°C in rural northern and eastern spots; milder at the coasts and in the urban south.

Any wind concerns?
No. Winds remain light—a calm, settled day and night.

Bottom line

It’s a calm, dry, and cool 24-hour stretch. Make the most of sunny intervals today—especially in England and Wales—and keep a warmer layer handy for a chilly evening and early morning, notably north of the Midlands and across Scotland. For anything more granular—like hour-by-hour for your exact postcode—tell me your town or city and I’ll tailor it.

BYD, the world’s leading new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, has officially become the first car manufacturer globally to reach the production milestone of 13 million NEVs. The historic vehicle – a YANGWANG U7 – rolled off the production line on 21 July, symbolising not only a remarkable achievement for BYD but also a significant milestone in the history of global NEV development.

 The commitment of BYD to switch its entire model strategy across multiple brands to solely electrified powertrains (New Energy Vehicles are defined as pure electric or Super Hybrid with DM Technology) continues to resonate with ever-increasing numbers of consumers seeking greener technologies worldwide. As a result, the step from 10 million NEVs to 13 million NEVs took around eight months. For context, it took BYD 13 years to build its first million NEVs.

In the first half of 2025, BYD sold a total of 2,145,954 new energy passenger vehicles globally, further cementing its position as the world’s top-selling NEV brand. Of these, 470,086 passenger vehicles and pick-up trucks were sold in overseas markets, with year-on-year growth of 128.5% demonstrating BYD’s growing international footprint.

The model that rolled off the production line to create the 13 millionth NEV milestone, the YANGWANG U7, is now being delivered to customers across China. The U7 is equipped with groundbreaking technologies including the DiSus-Z (Yunnian-Z) intelligent body control system, the e⁴ platform, a horizontally opposed motor, and rear-wheel steering. These advanced features deliver exceptional performance, outstanding vehicle stability, ultra-responsive handling, and superior safety, offering drivers a new level of driving control and comfort.

YANGWANG is BYD’s high-end luxury sub-brand, and it continues to make progress in its market segments. Since its launch, YANGWANG has attracted strong attention from media and customers alike, and its cumulative deliveries have now surpassed 10,000 units.

Founded in 1995, BYD (Build Your Dreams) is the only NEV producer to have developed its own power systems, power batteries, automotive semiconductors, motors and motor controller systems. BYD recently became the first auto maker in the world to reach the production milestone of 13 million NEVs – a groundbreaking figure that is testament to the company’s steadfast commitment to sustainable development. As the global green tech leader, BYD employs over 120,000 engineers and technicians, and it applies for more than 40 new patents every working day.

BYD introduced the game-changing Blade Battery in 2020. The flat, rectangular design of the Blade Battery ensures better cooling and preheating, and the fully cobalt-free lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry successfully passed a puncture test designed to simulate internal short circuits caused by sharp objects penetrating the battery during a severe traffic accident. During the test, the battery’s temperature ranged from 30-60 °C, and no smoke or flames were emitted. Blade Batteries can also withstand more than 5,000 charge and discharge cycles.

15% is a significant uplift in cost for our fledgling business against the pre-’Liberation Day’ baseline. However, it is at least a done deal and gives us a runway for continued growth in the US, our biggest market.

A protracted negotiation had the potential to inflict untold damage to our business and to the automotive industry as a whole, so it’s positive that we now have clarity. Hoping for a period of stability so that we can just get on with the business of delivering Grenadiers to our customers.”

Bicester Motion: 28th July 2025
The 11th Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional took place at Grimsthorpe Castle on Saturday, once again attracting thousands of guests and cars from around the world.

Hagerty proved once again that unexceptional cars have an exceptional following. Not only was the concours lawn filled with mundane automotive rarities, but the show parking area was also full of amazing cars that were once commonplace and now seldom seen, for as far as the eye could see.

Amongst the Maxis, Novas and Allegros were Trabants, Ladas and Datsuns, but FOTU brings out the cars others choose not to save. Take the Ford Granada, many of which are still around, but only at this unique event would you find a showroom condition, base model Granada Mk1 2.0 L with a manual gearbox. What about the Talbot Solara? One young owner has three of them, all immaculate and all in the same trim and engine specification.

Hagerty created the first Festival of the Unexceptional in 2014 as a celebration of long-forgotten everyday family cars, particularly those in base trim. Now celebrating cars from the 1970s to the early Millennium, the Festival attracts guests and cars from around the world, many of them younger enthusiasts. For most it is a labour of love, with many owners telling stories of the thousands of hours and pounds they have spent on their beloved vehicles, often way more than the cars are worth. 

The very best cars were presented in the Concours de L’Ordinaire on the lawn in front of Grimsthorpe Castle, cars chosen to represent the finest mundane motors. This year, these special cars were judged by experts Steve Cropley, Andrew Frankel, Richard Bremner, Jesse Billington, Sarah Crabtree, Gary Axon, and Jon Bentley.

Third place was awarded to a bright yellow 1979 Citroen Visa Club. One of only three still surviving, this car was immaculate and attracted attention throughout the show. Well done to owner Andy Smith.

A 1999 Ford Mondeo took second place. Owned by Callum Bailey, he spotted the red base model Ford being transported on a truck and about to be made into a banger racer and bought it on the spot. £6000 later and it became a FOTU star and caught the eye of the judges.

Festival of the Unexceptional sees a lot of younger owners and our winner proves that. 22-year-old Simon Packowski united the judges with his showroom standard 1992 Skoda Favorit Forum, a car so basic it doesn’t even have a radio. Simon rescued the car, which was about to be scrapped for a failed head gasket, and brought it back to its former glory, once driving 1000 miles to buy a set of original headrests.

So special was this Skoda, it also won the People’s Choice Award, voted by guests of the show. Well done to Simon for taking home two very special awards.

The judges also gave special mentions to Lucas Split for his Talbot Solara, not least for his 1000-mile road trip to get to the 2025 Festival of the Unexceptional. Glyn Hayler was commended for his Fiat Multipla, Paul Frost for his Bedford Rascal, Matthew Coleman for his Rover 214si and Jason Crawley for his immaculate Citroen Berlingo van.

A host of special guest cars appeared at the event too, including a selection of British Leyland prototypes, kindly supplied by the British Motor Museum. A 1969 Mini 9X hatchback prototype was joined by a model that was definitely ahead of its time, the British Leyland ECV3 from 1981 and there was a 1975 Triumph SD2 prototype. They all provided a glimpse of the FOTU stars we might have seen had they made production.

The British Motor Museum team also presented their own award for their choice of car of the show. Stephen Tearle took that trophy for his beautiful, family owned from new, Micra 1.0 Celebration.

Away from the cars, motoring podcast duo Smith and Sniff kept crowds entertained on the main stage with live game shows and podcast recordings. Jonny Smith and Richard Porter, true fans of unexceptional cars, brought crowd interaction and fun to FOTU with their automotive ramblings and infectious conversation.

Mark Roper, Managing Director of Hagerty International, added “Festival of the Unexceptional continues to grow bigger with every year. Over the past 11 years we have seen FOTU-era cars become recognised as proper classic cars, and the younger owner demographic shows this is a new movement in car culture. Hagerty is proud to be at the forefront of this and, with events like The Amelia and Motorlux in our portfolio, it perfectly demonstrates how Hagerty works hard to delight all classic vehicle enthusiasts, whatever they drive.”

More photos are available on request.

ELEMIS further elevates its presence with partnerships across both Aston Martin and the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team

10 July 2025, Gaydon: Globally renowned British skincare brand ELEMIS is proud to announce a multi-year international partnership with Aston Martin, the ultra-luxury high performance marque behind some of the world’s most iconic cars. This unique collaboration brings together two of the UK’s most celebrated brands, united by a heritage of craftsmanship, innovation, and performance.

As the Official Skincare Partner of Aston Martin, ELEMIS will host premium skincare experiences at Aston Martin events and flagship locations around the world. Co-branded activations and bespoke product launches will reflect the brands’ shared commitment to quality, precision, and innovation. Rooted in British heritage yet forward-looking in vision, this partnership redefines the standard for luxury lifestyle collaborations. From high-octane to spa relaxation, Aston Martin and ELEMIS form the ideal partnership to bring together exhilarating experiences with an opportunity to unwind and relax.

The partnership will debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on the 10-13 July, the quintessentially British motorsport celebration held in the stunning parklands of Goodwood House. ELEMIS will be present at the official Aston Martin Hospitality Lounge, offering VIP clients, media and creators an indulgent moment of self-care following a day of exhilarating, high-speed experiences.

Fresh from its appearance at the British Grand Prix, the ELEMIS Skin Spa Airstream will make its second stop at Goodwood Festival of Speed. This custom-designed mobile spa will provide guests with a haven of calm amid the adrenaline of the Hill Climb, featuring in-depth skin analysis, personalised skincare consultations, express treatments, and a curated edit of Pro-Collagen favourites and exclusive, performance-driven collections.

In August, the partnership will continue at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where ELEMIS will unveil a luxury Pop-Up Spa at the exclusive Aston Martin House. Further activations will be revealed in the coming months.

This partnership marks a bold new chapter for both brands as they expand their global presence and set a new benchmark at the intersection of lifestyle and performance.

“At ELEMIS, we’ve always believed in delivering excellence through innovation, craftsmanship and care, values we share with Aston Martin. This partnership represents a powerful meeting of minds, marrying innovative skincare with high-performance cars. Together, we’re creating immersive, sensorial experiences that redefine modern luxury for a global audience.” Sean Harrington, ELEMIS Co-Founder & CEO

Stefano Saporetti, Director of Brand Diversification at Aston Martin, added: “I’m excited to announce this innovative new partnership. By integrating premium skincare experiences at our events and flagship locations, we’re not just enhancing the holistic luxury lifestyle associated with Aston Martin; we’re also attracting new audiences and reinforcing our shared British luxury pedigree. The bespoke activations at Goodwood and Pebble Beach are exactly the kind of high-touch, experiential engagements that resonate with our clients, reflecting the shift in luxury from ownership to unforgettable experiences.”

The total carbon footprint of the ES90 is 31 tonnes when using a European energy mix to charge it. When using wind energy to charge the ES90, that figure falls to 26 tonnes. With a European energy mix, the ES90’s footprint is approximately 50 per cent lower than the Volvo S90 mild hybrid variant, and 30 per cent lower than a plug-in hybrid S90. It is also lower than the EX40 and EC40.

This means the ES90 has one of the lowest carbon footprints of any Volvo car to date. It also demonstrates that fully electric cars are a good choice both for customers and for the climate.

The third-party verified LCA report identifies the key contributing materials and processes to the car’s carbon footprint. Focused on greenhouse gas emissions, the report covers the car’s life cycle, starting with the extraction and refining of raw materials and ending with the car’s end-of-life.

“We go above and beyond existing legislation and have clear ambitions because that is important to us,” says Vanessa Butani, head of global sustainability at Volvo Cars. “We aim to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, and our ambition to be a leader in electrification is one step in that direction. The ES90 represents our holistic approach to sustainability, including the circular economy, climate-neutral manufacturing and responsible business.” 

A holistic approach beyond what is required 
When it launched its first fully electric car in 2019, Volvo Cars was the first car maker that pledged to release LCA reports for all its global fully electric models. By publicly issuing the reports, the company aims to help customers make informed decisions when choosing their next electric car. It has since issued LCA reports for five models: the Volvo EX40, EC40, EX30, EX90 and now the ES90.

In addition to being a fully electric car with zero tailpipe emissions, the ES90 has been designed with a holistic approach towards sustainability. For example, it is the first Volvo car equipped with the company’s new 800-volt electric system. This creates benefits in terms of charging and energy efficiency, thanks to lighter components that reduce the car’s overall weight. The car’s design also helps to improve efficiency and delivers a drag coefficient of 0.25, the best in Volvo Cars history.

The ES90 is built with approximately 29 per cent recycled aluminium, 18 per cent recycled steel, as well as 16 per cent recycled polymers and bio-based materials such as real, FSC-certified wood in the cabin. Inside, customers can pick a Nordico upholstery option made from recycled material such as PET bottles and bio-attributed material. The ES90 also comes with Volvo Cars’ world-first battery passport, based on blockchain technology that allows the company to track the origin of raw materials and the overall health of the battery.

The first customer-bound ES90 will roll off the production line this summer. It is available for order now in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, with other markets added later this year and in 2026. For more details, check the Volvo Cars webpage. 

Volvo Cars in 2024 
For the full year 2024, Volvo Car Group recorded a record-breaking core operating profit of SEK 27 billion. Revenue in 2024 amounted to an all-time high of SEK 400.2 billion, while global sales reached a record 763,389 cars. 

About Volvo Car Group 
Volvo Cars was founded in 1927. Today, it is one of the most well-known and respected car brands in the world with sales to customers in more than 100 countries. Volvo Cars is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange, where it is traded under the ticker “VOLCAR B”.

“For life. To give people the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way.” This purpose is reflected in Volvo Cars’ ambition to become a fully electric car maker and in its commitment to an ongoing reduction of its carbon footprint, with the ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. 

As of December 2024, Volvo Cars employed approximately 42,600 full-time employees. Volvo Cars’ head office, product development, marketing and administration functions are mainly located in Gothenburg, Sweden. Volvo Cars’ production plants are located in Gothenburg, Ghent (Belgium), South Carolina (US), Chengdu, Daqing and Taizhou (China). The company also has R&D and design centres in Gothenburg and Shanghai (China). 

Offenbach am Main, July 14 2025 – Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is continuously working to improve the comfort and user experience in its vehicles for its customers. As its latest optimization, the company has now implemented Google Places in its navigation systems. All vehicles equipped with the ccNC infotainment system and the latest software update installed will get access to this service. This includes the models KONA, the new SANTA FE, the new TUCSON, the new IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 9. The integration has been in progress since June 2025 – also for vehicles already sold to customers.

Google Places offers numerous advantages for users and expands the navigation options in the vehicle with a comprehensive address database of numerous points of interest. It provides additional information such as opening hours, descriptions, photos, and impresses with its user-friendly address entry thanks to a powerful autocomplete and improved free text search.

Fast and intuitive input, more detailed information
Google Places offers users a smarter and more powerful navigation experience – in line with Hyundai’s philosophy. This ensures that all Hyundai drivers have access to Google’s extensive location data, which covers more than 200 million locations, making it easier to find destinations. Address entry is faster and more intuitive, displaying suggestions for locations as text is entered. In addition, Google Points of Interest provides detailed descriptions, ratings, filters, and brand lists to simplify the discovery of restaurants, attractions, and businesses.

Hyundai and Google have continuously expanded their partnership in recent years to offer next-generation navigation and infotainment experiences. The two companies intend to continue this cooperation in the future.