Lease Connect – Car News

Bridgestone Chosen as Exclusive Tyre Partner for Historic Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster

admin — Tue, 12 May 2026 16:09:13 +0000

Bridgestone, a global leader in premium tyres and sustainable mobility solutions, is the exclusive tyre partner to the new Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster. In the latest collaboration between Lamborghini and its Official Technical Partner, the supercar is fitted with two custom-engineered Bridgestone Potenza tyres that maximise its capabilities on the road and track.

The Fenomeno Roadster is the most exclusive and powerful open top Lamborghini model ever produced, with just 15 units planned, each featuring a 1080 CV V12 hybrid powertrain. To optimise the supercar’s immense capabilities for real-world driving, Bridgestone has developed bespoke Potenza Sport ultra-high-performance tyres, combining exceptional high-speed performance with excellent steering response and precision.

The Potenza Sport fitment is paired with a bespoke new-generation semi-slick Bridgestone Potenza tyre that is engineered to deliver outstanding track-level performance. Building on Bridgestone’s extensive heritage and expertise in motorsport, this high-grip tyre unlocks the Fenomeno Roadster’s full performance potential on the track, while remaining fully homologated for public roads.

“As Lamborghini’s Official Technical Partner, and exclusive tyre supplier for its complete supercar range, our role is to help Lamborghini drivers experience phenomenal performance,” said Adrien Thormann, Director of OE Sales at Bridgestone EMEA. “Leveraging Bridgestone’s decades-long motorsports legacy and the pedigree of our iconic Potenza family, these premium tyres deliver exactly that for the immense Fenomeno Roadster – both on the road and track.”

The Fenomeno Roadster’s Potenza Sport fitment is available in 265/30 ZRF21 (front) and 355/25 ZRF22 (rear) sizes; its semi-slick, track-oriented fitment is available in 20- and 21-inch sizes. Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster drivers can choose the bespoke Potenza Sport tyre with Bridgestone’s Run-Flat Technology (RFT). RFT enables drivers to continue driving safely after a puncture for 80km at up to 80kph with 0-bar pressure.¹Both Bridgestone fitments feature the unique Lamborghini marking on their sidewall to highlight their exclusive development.

The custom Potenza fitments were developed and manufactured in Italy, applying Bridgestone’s proprietary Virtual Tyre Development (VTD) technology. VTD improves both the efficiency and sustainability of the tyre development process.

“At Lamborghini, unlocking performance is never down to one component – it’s the result of precise engineering working in harmony, and tyres play a decisive role,” said Christian Mastro, Lamborghini’s Marketing Director. “Through deep collaboration, our partnership with Bridgestone delivers bespoke solutions that fully express each vehicle’s character and the Lamborghini DNA. The Fenomeno Roadster is the latest example of how we continue to push boundaries together.”

The Fenomeno Roadster marks the latest in a long series of collaborations between Lamborghini and Bridgestone across six years of partnership. Beginning with the Huracan STO in 2021, OE collaborations between Bridgestone and Lamborghini also include the Revuelto, Temerario, Fenomeno and various other models. Today, Bridgestone is exclusive tyre supplier for Lamborghini’s complete supercar range.

Lamborghini’s latest supercar was revealed at Lamborghini Arena 2026, held at the iconic Imola Circuit. Bridgestone served as Official Lamborghini Arena Partner for this year’s event.

¹ Driving distance after a puncture may vary depending on vehicle load, outside temperature, and when the TPMS is triggered.

Illegal chop shops surge as Tracker and police shut down 30% more sites in 2025

admin — Sun, 03 May 2026 05:30:31 +0000

Soaring car parts prices and cost-of-living pressures mean no car is immune to theft

LONDON – 23rd April 2026 – Underlining the U.K.’s relentless car theft epidemic, stolen vehicle recovery expert (SVR) Tracker Network U.K., working with police forces nationwide, shut down a record 78 illegal ‘chop shops’ in 2025, a 30% year-on-year rise.

However, warns Tracker, as one chop-shop closes another quickly opens elsewhere, with organised crime gangs acting with speed and scale to keep ahead of law enforcement efforts. In 2020, Tracker and the police shut down just two chop shops compared to the 78 last year, confirming the sophistication and persistence of professional thieves. Cars of every make and model, value and age, are being stolen by criminals to be stripped of their parts and sold on for profit, in a bid to capitalise on consumer demand for quality second-hand parts at an affordable price.

With cost-of-living pressures and consumer caution impacting how long people keep their cars – 43% of the cars on the U.K. roads now over ten years oldi – Tracker warns that the sale of illegally harvested car parts looks set to continue.

As well as uncovering an unprecedented number of chop shops, Tracker also helped UK police stop career criminals in their tracks, with 147 arrests made, surpassing the total figure for 2024.  

Clive Wain, Head of Police Liaison at Tracker comments, “Although we have not won the war on vehicle theft, our close collaboration with UK police and law enforcement bodies means we are winning significant battles. A year-on-year rise of nearly a third in the number of chop shops found and closed is significant. However, many career criminals are willing to risk prosecution due to the substantial profits made through the illegal trade in stolen vehicles and their parts, which means we are in truth, playing a chop shop equivalent of whack-a-mole.”

The hidden whereabouts of the illegal chop shops found by Tracker and the police were uncovered as a direct result of Tracker’s unique combination of VHF with GPS/GSM technology, leading police directly to them. Critically, these devices are immune to GPS/GSM jamming, a method often used by thieves to mask a vehicle’s location. Not even industrial-sized jammers that police frequently find when raiding chop shops are able to match Tracker’s technology.

Tracker is the only stolen vehicle recovery provider with a formal agreement with all U.K. police forces, with most police cars and all police helicopters equipped with its technology. Continues Clive Wain, “By working strategically with the police and sharing intelligence we are delivering tangible results. This unified approach is not only proving highly effective in identifying and dismantling illegal chop shops, but also and crucially, disrupting organised criminal networks, helping slow down vehicle theft nationwide.”

ONE IN FOUR BUSINESS DRIVERS TAKE RISKS AMID RISING TRAFFIC CONGESTION

admin — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:42:56 +0000

Venson urges employers to review Driving for Work policies as survey reveals risky driving behaviour

www.venson.com

Rising traffic congestion across the UK is pushing business drivers to take dangerous risks behind the wheel, reveals a new survey by Venson Automotive Solutions. The most recent figures from the Department of Transport confirm that traffic levels in Britain have risen to match pre-pandemic highs, while van mileage has surged by 12.1%i since 2019. This increase is pushing 28% of business drivers to make manoeuvres like harsh braking and tailgating due to frustration in traffic. Almost one in five (19%) say they feel more stressed and struggle to concentrate on driving as they worry about being late, while 11% admit to becoming impatient, resulting in erratic driving.

With congestion worsening, UK employers have clear legal responsibilities to protect staff who drive for work, including managing stress, time pressure, and traffic delays. Venson is advising employers to review their Driving for Work policy to stay compliant and safeguard employees.

The good news is that the majority of business drivers surveyed by Venson are using their initiative to bypass congestion. In fact, 41% of business drivers actively use satnav or apps to re-route, while only 19% stick to their planned route. Interestingly, 22% will take an alternative route even if they don’t know where they are or lack the technology to guide them. A further 17% avoid congested motorways altogether in favour of A and B roads, routes that are statistically linked to a higher proportion of UK road fatalitiesii.

As businesses strive to educate fleet drivers, employers will be reassured many are exercising common sense when it comes to tackling congestion. While 30% say they don’t change their driving behaviour in congested roads, 41% become more cautious and increase their following distance.

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers must ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of employees. This includes work-related driving, stress caused by work demands, and risks arising from scheduling and workload. Driving for work, other than commuting, counts as a work activity.

Commenting on the findings Simon Staton, Client Management Director, Venson Automotive Solutions said, “There are simple actions employers can take to help their staff who drive for work. For example, using driver risk management tools which help to identify the most at risk drivers on fleet and pinpoint if driving training is required to improve driving behaviour. By reviewing driving for work policies employers can help keep their drivers safe, reduce stress and reduce costs by minimising the number of accidents each year.”

Coppa delle Alpi st. Moritz Edition: beauty and technical skill between Switzerland and Italy

admin — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 11:55:30 +0000

St. Moritz, 13 March 2026 – The second leg of the Coppa delle Alpi St. Moritz Edition, the longest at over 275 kilometres, was also blessed with sunshine. Today’s route took the crews across the Italian border to immerse themselves in the picturesque scenery of Valtellina.

Leaving the Swiss territory behind, the passage through Val Poschiavo was spectacular, with the Bernina Pass and the snow-capped peaks in full view. A moment of great beauty as the race was about to begin: the first Average Trial of this edition of the Coppa delle Alpi was set to start in Grosio. The convoy also completed a series of 12 Time Trials in Le Prese before heading towards Bormio, where a Time Control was carried out in the central Piazza Kuerc, under the watchful eyes and cameras of many onlookers. Just a stone’s throw from the legendary Stelvio track, the participants entered the areas that hosted the recent Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic Games.

As the convoy climbed towards the 1,870 metres of Arnoga, a picturesque hamlet of Valdidentro, the new Average Trials got underway. Along the climb towards Passo Foscagno, the convoy skirted the lake bearing the same name, a spectacular glacial basin at over 2,200 metres above sea level, and passed by the Cappella della Madonna della Neve. After passing Trepalle and Passo dell’Eira, the descent towards the Livigno valley began.

At the Ghiacciodromo, the tyres of the competing cars were able to grip the snow in two sets of Time Trials, although the sunny weather that has accompanied the Coppa delle Alpi since the start threatened to melt it.

Upon returning to Swiss territory, the route passed through the picturesque village of Müstair, dominated by Piz Chavalatsch, whose summit marks the easternmost point of Switzerland. The passage through the UNESCO Biosfera Engiadina Val Müstair was particularly striking, as was the Time Control in front of the Benedictine Monastery of St. John, itself a World Heritage Site. Continuing into the heart of the valley, the convoy passed through the village of S-chanf, admiring its traditional Alpine elegance, before tackling the final series of Time Trials until Zuoz.

The sunset over the River Inn accompanied the more than 60 competing crews to the Time Control in St. Moritz, who were tired but satisfied by the beauty and technical challenges of this long day. See you tomorrow for the third and final leg of this year’s Coppa delle Alpi.

The results

At the end of the first leg, the podium was an all-Italian line-up with minimal, if not non-existent, gaps between the teams. In first place were Francesco and Giuseppe Di Pietra in their 1938 Fiat 508 C Balilla with 116 penalty points; in second and third place were two crews tied on 117 penalty points: Gian Mario Fontanella and Anna Maria Covelli in a 1930 Fiat 514 S, Celestino and Oreste Sangiovanni in a 1959 Porsche 356 A.

The coveted “Trofeo St. Moritz”, awarded based on the results of the Time Trials held on the legendary Bobrun in Celerina, went to Gian Mario Fontanella and Anna Maria Covelli with 21 penalty points. Once again, two crews shared the second step of the podium with 27 penalty points: Celestino and Oreste Sangiovanni, and Ralf Ehlen and Heike Koppel.

The results of the second leg will be published as soon as they are available in the News section of the 1000miglia.it website.

The new BMW i3: Second Neue Klasse model continues holistic approach to sustainability

admin — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 02:06:48 +0000

Holistic concept targets resource efficiency and reduction in CO₂e emissions
Decarbonisation across supply chain
“Design for Circularity” principle expanded to further components

Munich. In the BMW i3, as with the BMW iX3, the BMW Group applies a 360° approach to sustainability. At its core is decarbonisation throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle – from product development through the supply chain and production to the end of the use phase. In this way, the second Neue Klasse model also contributes to achieving the ambitious, overarching CO₂e targets the company has set itself.

CO₂e benefits already after 1-2 years of use.
Depending on the drive train variant, annual mileage and source of the electricity used for charging, the new BMW i3 50xDrive already achieves a CO₂e advantage over a comparable model with an internal combustion engine after one to two years of use^[1].

Decarbonisation in the supply chain.
Targeted decarbonisation is a key starting point for reducing CO₂e emissions throughout the supply chain. The use of renewable energies, the increasing share of secondary material, and product and process innovations – for example, in the Gen6 cell and high-voltage battery – contribute to a significant emissions reduction across the entire supply chain.
The results of this systematic approach are demonstrated by the emission reductions achieved: Specific measures during product development of the BMW i3 lowered supply chain CO₂e emissions by about a third.^[2]

Innovative materials and technologies for interior and exterior.
The “Design for Circularity” principle is also systematically applied in the new BMW i3. The concept incorporates gradually increased use of secondary materials, targeted reduction of material selection and optimised dismantling capability.
For example, the BMW i3 uses 30 percent recycled plastic in its front bumper trim. At the same time, the number of different materials used for the entire bumper, excluding mounted parts, was reduced from 15 to 7, compared to the predecessor model (seventh-generation BMW 3 Series). Due to the high use of a plastic particularly suitable for recycling, the proportion of recyclable plastic was increased from approximately 46 percent in the predecessor to about 85 percent^[3]. This enables the recovery of high-quality plastic recyclates from the vehicle.
Another example of how the “Design for Circularity” principle is implemented in the new BMW i3 is the Econeer seat covers offered as part of the “Essential” equipment line, which are made from a recyclable textile composite. The basic material for the upper fabric is 100-percent recycled PET. The use of recycled PET granulate – as the base material for the polyester yarn required – significantly reduces CO₂e emissions and water consumption during manufacturing compared to primary material. The dismantling capability of the seat cover has also been improved to facilitate a material-specific separation at the end of the lifecycle.

Use of secondary materials in the new BMW i3.
The new BMW i3 consists of approx. 30 percent secondary materials in total^[4]: These include cast aluminium components, such front and rear knuckle, with 80 percent secondary material content, and cast aluminium wheel rims with 70 percent secondary aluminium. The housing for the rear electric motor, produced at BMW Plant Landshut, comprises up to two-thirds secondary aluminium. A portion of the energy used in production comes from renewable sources.
In the Gen6 battery cells of the BMW i3 high‑voltage battery, secondary materials are partially used for cobalt, lithium and nickel. Energy from renewable sources is used in manufacturing the anode and cathode materials, as well as for cell production. In comparison to the previous model’s Gen5 cell, CO₂e emissions were reduced by approx. 33 percent per watt hour.
Further examples of the innovative use of engineering and secondary materials include the engine compartment cover and the storage compartment under the BMW i3’s bonnet. The starting material for these consists of 30 percent recycled maritime plastic – post-consumer material from used fishing nets and ropes – while the base material for the yarn used in the textiles for the headliner, A-pillar and parcel shelf consists entirely of recycled material.

Enhanced efficiency during use phase.
With the EfficientDynamics technology package, vehicle efficiency is optimised across all subsystems during the use phase.
This encompasses aerodynamics, lightweight construction, rolling resistance and overall energy management, for example. Efficientynamics has been employed by the BMW Group since 2007, across all drive technologies.

BMW Group Plant Munich undergoes extensive modernisation.
BMW Group Plant Munich is the BMW Group’s main plant.For more than a century, the plant has been producing premium mobility in Munich’s Milbertshofen district. Over the past four years, the site has been completely modernised: In addition to a new body shop, a state-of-the-art vehicle assembly was also built, including logistics areas. The new facilities are now in the final stages of construction. Production of the new BMW i3 will get underway here in 2026. Just one year later, the Munich location will transition its production portfolio to exclusively fully-electric vehicles for the Neue Klasse. As the BMW Group’s oldest automobile production site, the plant sources 100 percent of its external electricity requirements from renewable energy.

In line with BMW Group’s sustainable development goals.
The BMW Group’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and to reaching “net zero” no later than 2050 is an integral part of its holistic 360° approach to sustainability, which is anchored in its corporate strategy. The company has set itself ambitious science-based CO₂e targets for the coming years. The BMW Group intends to reduce its CO₂e emissions by a total of at least 40 million tonnes from 2019 levels by 2030.

Transparency through Product Carbon Footprint .
The BMW Group has published its vehicles’ Product Carbon Footprint, as validated by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV), for many years in the so-called Vehicle Footprint. This report is publicly available here for all drive trains of the new BMW 3 Series from the Start of Production and can also be accessed in the My BMW app. In this way, the BMW Group creates transparency around the percentage of secondary materials and CO₂e emissions across the vehicles’ entire lifecycle.

^[1] The figure provided is a preliminary forecast value. The final figure will be published with the Vehicle Footprint (VFP) prior to the Start of Production (SOP).

^[2] The reduction is based on a comparison with industry averages from an internationally recognised LCA database. The figure provided is a preliminary forecast value. The final figure will be published with the Vehicle Footprint (VFP) prior to the Start of Production (SOP).

^[3] Figures represent the percentage of material that can be separated by type using a shredding process and subsequent separation methods.

^[4] The figure provided is a preliminary forecast value. The final figure will be published with the Vehicle Footprint (VFP) prior to the Start of Production (SOP).

Hyundai Motor UK announces new TUCSON range specifications and pricing

admin — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:44:23 +0000

New trims introduced; Element, Black Line and N-Line Edition
Available initially on ICE and Hybrid powertrains, PHEV from April 2026
Up to £2,250 finance deposit contribution available
Prices start from £30,935

LEATHERHEAD 16^th March – Hyundai Motor UK has announced pricing and specification for the new TUCSON range, with order books now open.

Since its launch in 2021, TUCSON has become one of Hyundai’s most successful models, with more than 148,000 vehicles sold from the current generation alone. Its blend of striking design, everyday practicality and advanced connected technology has earned multiple industry awards and established TUCSON as one of the most complete SUV offerings in its class.

The latest range continues this strong reputation with three well-equipped trim levels – Element, Black Line and the range-topping N-Line Edition. The popular N Line S and Ultimate trim levels remain in the line-up for customers to place new factory orders.

The new Element trim starts from £30,935 for the Element 150PS 6-speed manual. Key features include black roof rails, dual-zone climate control, cloth interior upholstery, 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, wireless phone charging, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, a Smart Key FOB with engine start button, 17-inch alloy wheels, E-Call, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera, among many other features.

The Black Line trim starts from £33,435 for the Black Line 150PS 6-speed manual. Building on the Element specification, it adds 19-inch alloy wheels with satin grey detailing, a satin grey Hyundai logo in the front grille, black door mirrors, hidden daytime running lights (DRLs), black window surrounds, rear privacy glass, LED rear combination lamps, a 12.3-inch TFT digital driver display, metal door tread plates, cloth and leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.

Topping the range is the N-Line Edition, priced from £36,185 for the N-Line Edition 150PS 6-speed manual. In addition to the features listed above, the N-Line Edition includes N-Line styling, body-coloured wheel arches, a Krell Premium audio system, 3-zone climate control, heated rear seats, a smart power tailgate, head-up display, Matrix LED headlamps, remote folding rear seats, and Highway Drive Assist.

As well as introducing a new trim line up, the TUCSON range has also benefitted from a price realignment across the range, with the range now starting from £30,935 for the Element trim. Finance contributions are also available for TUCSON, with Hybrid models benefitting from a £2,250 FDA and ICE models with a £1,750 FDA, both at 4.9% APR.

Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, said: “Since its introduction, TUCSON has played a very important role in Hyundai’s success in the UK, combining distinctive design, advanced technology and everyday practicality in a way that really resonates with customers. With the latest range, we’re continuing to build on that strong foundation by offering even greater choice and specification across the line-up. From the well-equipped Element trim through to the striking Black Line and the range-topping N-Line Edition, TUCSON remains one of the most complete and compelling SUVs available to UK drivers today.”

Colour options

Option description	Type	Element Black Line Ultimate	N Line Edition N Line S	Price (£)
Abyss Black	Pearl	✓	✓	750.00
Atlas White	Solid	✓	✓	350.00
Serenity White	Pearl	✓	✓	750.00
Shimmering Silver	Metallic	✓	✓	750.00
Ecotronic Grey	Pearl	✓	✓	750.00
Ultimate Red	Metallic	✓	✓	750.00
Engine Red	Solid	✓	✓	FOC
Cypress Green	Pearl	✓	–	750.00
Jupiter Orange	Metallic	✓	–	750.00
Sailing Blue	Pearl	✓	–	750.00
Shadow Grey	Solid	–	✓	750.00
Pine Green	Matte	Black Line	–	1,250.00

Interior trim options

Trim	Element	Black Line	N Line Edition	N Line S	Ultimate
Cloth	✓	–	–	–	–
Cloth & Leather	–	✓	–	–	–
Suede & Leather	–	–	✓	✓	–
Black Leather	–	–	–	–	✓
Moss Grey Leather	–	–	–	–	FOC option
Cypress Green Leather	–	–	–	–	FOC option

Pricing – for the very latest information, please check www.hyundai.co.uk/new-cars/

Model	OTR (£)	P11D (£)
Element 150PS 6 speed manual	£30,935.00	£29,520.00
Element 150PS 7 speed DCT	£32,635.00	£31,220.00
Element 239PS Hybrid 6 speed automatic	£34,860.00	£34,365.00
Black Line 150PS 6 speed manual	£33,435.00	£32,020.00
Black Line 150PS 7 speed DCT	£35,135.00	£33,720.00
Black Line 239PS Hybrid 6 speed automatic	£36,975.00	£36,480.00
N-Line Edition 150PS 6 speed manual	£36,185.00	£34,770.00
N-Line Edition 150PS 7 speed DCT	£37,885.00	£36,470.00
N-Line Edition 239PS Hybrid 6 speed automatic	£39,725.00	£39,130.00
N Line S 150PS 6 speed manual	£38,685.00	£37,270.00
N Line S 150PS 7 speed DCT	£40,385.00	£38,970.00
N Line S 239PS Hybrid 6 speed automatic	£42,225.00	£41,630.00
Ultimate 150PS 6 speed manual	£38,685.00	£37,270.00
Ultimate 150PS 7 speed DCT	£40,385.00	£38,970.00
Ultimate 239PS Hybrid 6 speed automatic	£42,225.00	£41,630.00

Specification – for the very latest information, please check www.hyundai.co.uk/new-cars/

SPECIFICATIONS	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
EXTERIOR
17″ Alloy Wheels	●	–	–
19″ Alloy Wheels	–	●	●
Black Wheel Arches	●	●	–
Body Coloured Wheel Arches	–	–	●
Door Mirrors with Integrated Indicators – Body Coloured	●	●	●
Exterior Door Handles – Body Coloured	●	●	●
N Line Design Package	–	–	●
Roof Rails	●	●	●
Engine Red Solid Paint (FOC)	●	●	●
INTERIOR STYLING	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel and Gear Knob	●	●	●
TUCSON Branded Metal Door Scuff Plate	–	●	●
N Line Interior Design Package	–	–	●
SEATING	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
Adjustable Head Restraints	●	●	●
Driver’s Seat Electric Adjustments	–	–	–
Driver’s Seat Height Adjustment (Manual)	●	–	●
Front Passenger’s Seat Height Adjustment (Manual)	●	–	●
Front Seats – Heated	–	●	●
N Line Leather & Faux Suede Seats	–	–	●
Rear Seats – Split Folding (40:20:40)	●	●	●
Remote Rear Folding Seats (Boot Lever Function)	–	–	●
Seat Trim – Premium Cloth	●	–	–
Seat Trim – Premium Cloth & Leather	–	●	–
Seat Trim – Microsuede & Leather	–	–	●
VENTILATION & VISIBILITY	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
Air Conditioning – Climate Control (Dual Zone)	●	●	–
Air Conditioning – Climate Control (Tri Zone)	–	–	●
Touch Sensitive Climate Controls with Temperature Dials	●	●	●
Automatic Dimming Rear View Mirror (ECM)	●	●	●
Automatic Headlights with Dusk Sensor	●	●	●
Automatic Windscreen Wipers with Rain Sensor	●	●	●
Daytime Running Lights – LED	●	●	●
LED Headlights	●	●	●
64 Colour Selectable Ambient Interior Lighting	–	●	●
Interior Light – Luggage Compartment	●	●	●
Interior Light – Map Reading Light	●	●	●
Privacy Glass – Rear Windows and Tailgate	–	●	●
Rear Lights – LED	–	●	●
CONVENIENCE	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
12V Power Outlets in Front Console and Luggage Compartment	●	●	●
Charging Cable – Emergency 3 Pin Connector (ICCB) [PHEV only]	●	●	●
Charging Cable – 7 Pin Type 2 (Wallbox) [PHEV only]	●	●	●
Arm Rest – Front with Storage	●	●	●
Arm Rest – Rear with Cup Holders	●	●	●
Arm Rest with Wirless Charging (DCT only)	●	●	●
Shift by Wire Gear Selector (DCT only)	●	●	●
Bottle Holders – Front Centre Console and Doors	●	●	●
Cruise Control – Smart Adaptive Speed Control with Stop & Go Function (DCT & Hybrid only)	●	●	●
Door Mirrors – Electric Adjustment and Heated with Power Folding Function	●	●	●
Drive Mode Select	●	●	●
Electric Parking Brake	●	●	●
Heated Steering Wheel	–	●	●
Luggage Cover	●	●	●
Luggage Hooks	●	●	●
Luggage Net	●	●	–
Under Floor Boot Storage	●	●	●
Parking Sensors – Front and Rear	●	●	●
Parking System – Rear Camera and Guidance System	●	●	●
Smart Electric Tailgate	–	–	●
Smart Key – Keyless Entry with Engine Start/Stop Button	●	●	●
Sun Visors – with Driver and Passenger Illuminated LED Vanity Mirrors	●	●	●
Rear Window Sun Blind (Manual)	–	–	●
Trailer Wiring Package	●	●	●
TECHNOLOGY & ENTERTAINMENT	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
12.3″ Touchscreen Satellite Navigation including Bluelink connectivity (10 years LITE subscription, 3 years PLUS & 6 months free trial for PRO)**	●	●	●
Driver’s Supervision Instrument Cluster with 4.30″ LCD Display	●	–	–
Driver’s Supervision Instrument Cluster with 12.30″ LCD Display	–	●	●
KRELL Premium Audio – 8 Speakers + Subwoofer	–	–	●
Wireless Android Auto	●	●	●
Wireless Apple CarPlay	●	●	●
Steering Wheel Audio and Phone Controls	●	●	●
USB-C – Front: 2 Rear: 2	●	●	●
Wireless Phone Charging Pad	●	●	●
Over the Air (OTA) Updates	●	●	●
SAFETY & SECURITY	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
Active Bonnet System	●	●	●
Airbag – Front Centre	●	●	●
Airbag – Front Passenger De-Activation Switch	●	●	●
Airbag – Rollover Sensor (Curtain)	●	●	●
Airbags – Front, Front Side & Curtain Airbags	●	●	●
Alarm – Thatcham Category 1	●	●	●
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)	●	●	●
Central Locking – Remote Control	●	●	●
Deadlocks	●	●	●
Downhill Brake Control (DBC)	●	●	●
eCall	●	●	●
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist – Car, Pedestrian, Cycle (FCA)	●	●	●
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist – Junction Turning	–	●	●
Highway Drive Assist (DCT & Hybrid only)	–	●	●
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)	●	●	●
Immobiliser	●	●	●
Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA 3)	●	●	●
ISOfix Child Seat Anchorage Points – Rear (outer seats only)	●	●	●
Lane Follow Assist (LFA)	●	●	●
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)	●	●	●
Locking Wheel Nuts	●	●	●
Seatbelt Pre-tensioners – Front	●	●	●
Seatbelt Reminder – Front & Rear	●	●	●
Seatbelts – Height Adjustable Driver and Front Passenger	●	●	●
Speed Sensitive Automatic Door Locking	●	●	●
Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)	●	●	●
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Individual Tyre Pressure Display	●	●	●
Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)	●	●	●
CUSTOMER OPTIONS	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
Metallic / Pearl Paint	○	○	○
Solid Paint	○	○	○
4WD (PHEV)	–	–	○
WARRANTY	ELEMENT	BLACK LINE	N-LINE EDITION
Five Year Annual Vehicle Health Checks	●	●	●
Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty	●	●	●
Hyundai Roadside Assistance	●	●	●

Technical – for the latest technical information, please check www.hyundai.co.uk/new-cars/

POWERTRAIN	1.6T 150PS 6 Speed Manual	1.6T 150PS 7 Speed DCT	1.6T 239PS Hybrid 6 Speed Auto	1.6T 252PS Plug-Hybrid 6 Speed Auto	1.6T 252PS Plug-in Hybrid 6 Speed Auto 4WD
ENGINE
Euro Status	EURO 6e
Type	4 Cylinder DOHC
Valve	16
Displacement	1598
Bore & Stroke(mm)	75.6×89.0
Compression Ratio	10.5:1
Max System Power (PS)	150 @ 5500rpm		239 @ 6000 rpm	252 @ 5500 rpm
Max System Torque (Nm)	250 @ 1500-4000rpm		379 @ 1500 rpm	367 @ 2200 rpm
0-62mph (seconds)	9.5	9.4	8.2	7.9	8.1
Top Speed(mph)	121	121	116	116	116
ELECTRIC MOTOR
Electric Motor Type	–	–	Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)
Electric Motor Max Power (PS/kW)	–	–	64.9 / 47.7	97.9 / 72
Electric Motor Torque(Nm/lbs ft)	–	–	250 / 184.4	304 / 31
HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY
Battery Type	–	–	Lithium-ion Polymer
SUSPENSION
Front	Macpherson Strut Type
Rear	Multi-link Type
STEERING
System	C-MDPS – Element, Black Line / R-MDPS – N Line Edition, N Line S, Ultimate
Steering – Lock to Lock	C-MDPS – 2.54 / R-MDPS – 2.41
Turning Circle (metres)	11
BRAKE
Front	Ø325mm ventilated disc
Rear	Ø300mm solid disc
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length(mm)	4525 – 4535
Overall Width (mm)	1865 (Excluding Door Mirrors)
Wheelbase (mm)	2680
WEIGHT AND CAPACITY
Kerb Weight (kg) (Heaviest)	1608	1635	1698	1876	1940
Payload (kg) (Lightest)	457	460	492	474	480
Gross Vehicle Weight (kg)	2065	2095	2190	2350	2420
Max Tow Weight (kg) – Braked	1650		1510	1210	1210
Max Tow Weight (kg) – Unbraked	750
Max Roof Weight (kg)	100
Fuel Tank Capacity (litte)	54		52	42
ELEMENT
Front / Rear Tyre	215/65 R17				–
Front / Rear Wheel	7.0J x 17”				–
Front / Rear Track (mm)	1630 / 1637				–
Overall Height (mm)	1650				–
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres) – Seats Up / Down	620 / 1799		616 / 1795	556 / 1721	–
WLTP-Combined MPG (l/100km)*	39.8 (7.1)	40.9 (6.9)	50.4 (5.6)	45.6 (6.2)	–
WLTP-CO₂ Emissions (g/km)*	161	157	126	22	–
EV Range (miles)*	–	–	–	43.5	–
BLACK LINE
Front / Rear Tyre	235/50 R19				–
Front / Rear Wheel	7.5J x 19”				–
Front / Rear Track (mm)	1615 / 1622				–
Overall Height (mm)	1650				–
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres) – Seats Up / Down	620 / 1799		616 / 1795	556 / 1721	–
WLTP-Combined MPG (l/100km)*	39.8 (7.1)	40.4 (7.0)	49.6 (5.7)	44.1 (6.4)	–
WLTP-CO₂ Emissions (g/km)*	162	160	130	24	–
EV Range (miles)*	–	–	–	42.9	–
N LINE EDITION
Front / Rear Tyre	235/50 R19
Front / Rear Wheel	7.5J x 19″
Front / Rear Track (mm)	1615 / 1622
Overall Height (mm)	1650
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres) – Seats Up / Down	620 / 1799		616 / 1795	556 / 1721
WLTP-Combined MPG (l/100km)*	39.2 (7.2)	39.8 (7.1)	48.7 (5.8)	44.1 (6.4)	40.4 (7.0)
WLTP-CO₂ Emissions (g/km)*	163	161	131	24	29
EV Range (miles)*	–	–	–	42.3	39.2
N LINE S
Front / Rear Tyre	235/50 R19
Front / Rear Wheel	7.5J x 19″
Front / Rear Track (mm)	1615 / 1622
Overall Height (mm)	1650
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres) – Seats Up / Down	620 / 1799		616 / 1795	558 / 1737
WLTP-Combined MPG (l/100km)*	39.2 (7.2)	39.8 (7.1)	48.7 (5.8)	43.5 (6.5)	40.4 (7.0)
WLTP-CO₂ Emissions (g/km)*	164	162	131	25	29
EV Range (miles)*	–	–	–	41.6	39.2
ULTIMATE
Front / Rear Tyre	235/50 R19
Front / Rear Wheel	7.5J x 19″
Front / Rear Track (mm)	1615 / 1622
Overall Height (mm)	1653
Luggage Capacity VDA (litres) – Seats Up / Down	620 / 1799		616 / 1795	558 / 1737
WLTP-Combined MPG (l/100km)*	39.2 (7.2)	39.8 (7.1)	48.7 (5.8)	44.1 (6.4)	54.3 (5.2)
WLTP-CO₂ Emissions (g/km)*	163	162	132	25	29
EV Range (miles)*	–	–	–	42.3	39.2

Twisted unveils the TRRC – its first-ever interpretation of the Range Rover Classic

admin — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:37:11 +0000

Twisted adds to its product range with the TRRC, a high-performance reimagining of the Range Rover Classic, inspired by founder Charles Fawcett’s 1980s childhood nostalgia.
Powered by a 500hp LT1 V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission, the TRRC features bespoke hammer-formed aluminium bodywork and obsessive panel tolerances.
Limited to just 12 hand-built units per year and priced from £350,000, all 2026 build slots are already reserved as the brand targets a global audience.

THIRSK, UK – Twisted Automotive, the world-renowned specialists in re-engineering iconic British 4x4s, has unveiled its first-ever Range Rover project: the Twisted interpretation of a Range Rover Classic (TRRC).

Following 25 years of perfecting the Defender, Twisted has applied its ‘anti-ordinary’ philosophy to the two-door Range Rover Classic.

The TRRC is a project rooted in deep personal nostalgia. For Twisted founder Charles Fawcett, the Range Rover Classic was the “king of the road” during his childhood.

“When I think back to the 1980’s, my father always seemed to have a two-door Range Rover, and there was one particular one that stood out,” says Fawcett. “It was terracotta brown with fibreglass extended wheel arches and white Weller eight-spoke wheels shod with General Grabber road-oriented tyres. On the front, he’d fabricated a valance out of an MGB GT front spoiler. To me, it was just iconic. Today, the TRRC exists out of unapologetic nostalgia, recreating something I remember from when I was a tiny boy. I think many customers will relate to that feeling.”

At the core of the build is a high-performance LT1 V8 conversion producing 500hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. To manage this power, Twisted utilised two decades of engineering heritage from its Defender program.

While the TRRC drives similarly to Twisted’s T90 and T110 (re-engineered Defender), in terms of performance and communication, the handling has been specifically tuned for the Range Rover’s unique character. “We spent an age tweaking the bushings so that you got something that was sharp and super drivable but not too harsh,” explains Fawcett. “A Range Rover needs to be supple.”

True to the Twisted ethos, the TRRC is a curated mix of the best eras of the Classic, blending a 1970s front bumper with a 1990s-style grille and headlight surrounds. British engineering excellence runs through every detail, with bespoke tooling being designed to create new hammer-formed aluminium panels for every external surface of the TRRC. Twisted’s panel gap tolerance on the TRRC is obsessive.

Other bespoke design choices include the C-Pillar. Twisted customers can choose not to have the traditional floating roof look, instead painting the C-pillar in body colour to accentuate the two-door silhouette. The vehicle sits slightly lower on the nose to suit the Classic’s profile. Design touches such as vents formed in the C-pillar panel will be included in the final production design.

The TTRC’s interior has been reengineered, too. Seats have been positioned lower than the originals, so the driver’s eyeline is directed at the upper half of the windscreen, making the most of the vehicle’s legendary glass-everywhere visibility.

In a move that honours the bare metalwork of early Range Rovers, Twisted attaches soundproofing to the underside of the carpet rather than the interior shell. It’s a small, obsessive detail synonymous with Twisted – allowing customers to peel back the carpet to see the pristine paintwork, or even leave the rear inner arches uncarpeted to fully appreciate the metalwork.

Pricing for the Twisted TRRC starts at £350,000. Vehicles will be shipped globally. Every vehicle undergoes a rigorous 500-mile validation program before delivery.

Twisted will hand-build up to 12 TRRCs per year. “All of our 2026 build slots are already taken and 2027 is looking over-subscribed,” says Fawcett. “The Range Rover Classic is a British icon. It’s not for everyone, and that’s the point. As with all Twisted products, not everyone will want one and of those that do, not everyone will get one.”

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Donor Vehicle: 1990-92 Range Rover Classic two-door sourced to Twisted criteria (available in LHD or RHD).
Driveline: TV8 6.2l Petrol Auto (500bhp); Eight-speed automatic transmission; Progressive suspension and bushing upgrade; Twisted braking system (6-pot front, 4-pot rear); Upgraded differentials.
Chassis/body: Chassis and axle casings stripped, blasted, and e-coated in a protective satin black finish. Full body-off panel-by-panel restoration to body shell. Complete set of new British hand formed, unique to Twisted, body panels which include front and rear rolled arches, colour-coded C-pillars and front splitter with high-output driving lights.
Interior: Full cabin sealing and soundproofing; Premium-grade extended carpeting, Leather-trimming to all interior surfaces, heated front seats, Twisted 8-channel discreet audio and single-DIN infotainment system.

Milestone of “In China, for China” strategy: First car developed jointly by Volkswagen and XPENG rolls off the production line

admin — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 22:07:18 +0000

“In China, for China” strategy delivers: Developed in just 24 months, the ID.UNYX 08¹ is now entering series production at Volkswagen Anhui in Hefei.
Advanced tech in-series: The ID.UNYX 08 is Volkswagen’s first fully connected, all-electric full-size SUV. It is equipped with 800V technology, as well as L2 advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) capabilities and enables continuous technological evolution through over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Oliver Blume, CEO Volkswagen Group: “Three years ago, we launched our strong China strategy; it is now unleashing its full power. The ID.UNYX 08 is the next impressive proof of this. The car was developed in China for China, with German engineering and local cutting-edge technology. Brought to market at high speed – and at attractive prices – vehicles like the ID.UNYX 08 are part of our ambition to become the global automotive tech driver.”
Ralf Brandstätter, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG responsible for China, and Chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China: “Our ´In China, for China` strategy is delivering results. With the ID.UNYX 08, we are launching the Group’s largest electric vehicle offensive in China. On average, the Volkswagen Group is launching one new electric car every two weeks this year. That’s ´China Speed`. The ID.UNYX 08 is the first Volkswagen model in a new generation of smart electric vehicles that will carry our strengths into the electric age. The car is fully tailored to Chinese customer needs, equipped with cutting-edge technology, and was developed locally in less than two years. This underscores the implementation strength of our partnership with XPENG.”

Hefei, March 13, 2026: The Volkswagen Group is rapidly advancing the implementation of its “In China, for China” strategy and the accelerated electrification of its product portfolio. In Hefei, eastern China, series production has begun of the ID.UNYX 08, Volkswagen’s first fully connected, all-electric full-size SUV for the Chinese market. The vehicle is a joint development with Chinese manufacturer NEV XPENG and reached series production maturity in just 24 months after the start of the cooperation. The ID.UNYX 08 is equipped with locally developed cutting-edge technologies, including 800-volt ultra-fast charging technology, L2 advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) capabilities, and the ability to continuously upgrade the vehicle with over-the-air (OTA) updates. At the same time, the new model embodies Volkswagen’s core brand values and sets standards in safety, quality, driving comfort, and durability.

The market launch of the ID.UNYX 08 is planned for the first half of this year. As part of its largest product offensive for electric vehicles to date, the Group will launch 20 new, locally developed models in China this year alone.

Oliver Blume, CEO Volkswagen Group: “Three years ago, we launched our strong China strategy – It is now unleashing its full power. The ID.UNYX 08 is the next impressive proof of this. The car was developed in China for China, with German engineering and local cutting-edge technology.

Brought to market at high speed – and at attractive prices – vehicles like the ID.UNYX 08 are part of our ambition to become the global automotive tech driver.”

Ralf Brandstätter, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG responsible for China, and Chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China, said: ” Our ´In China, for China´ strategy is delivering results. With the ID.UNYX 08, we are launching the Group’s largest electric vehicle offensive in China. On average, the Volkswagen Group is launching one new electric car every two weeks this year. That’s ´China Speed.´ The ID.UNYX 08 is the first Volkswagen model in a new generation of smart electric vehicles that will carry our strengths into the electric age. The car is fully tailored to Chinese customer needs, equipped with cutting-edge technology, and was developed locally in less than two years. This underscores the implementation strength of our partnership with XPENG.”

He Xiaopeng, Chairman and CEO of XPENG, said: “With the ID.UNYX 08 entering series production, our cooperation with Volkswagen Group has delivered a tangible result. Built on mutual trust and close collaboration, this partnership allows both sides to combine our strengths and create long-term value. We look forward to continued cooperation and a win-win future.”

Building Momentum for the Next Phase of Growth in China
In the fast-evolving ICV era, the Volkswagen Group is driving forward its transformation with its “In China, for China” strategy. Following three years of consistent transformation, the Group is steadily building momentum through a robust NEV product portfolio and locally developed ICV technologies, laying the foundation for the next stage of its transformation. The linchpin of this progress is the reinforcement of local R&D capabilities and integrating deeply into the local ecosystem supported by strategic, targeted partnerships.

In 2023, Volkswagen Group has entered a long-term partnership with XPENG, focusing on product development and technological innovation at scale leveraging core competences of both companies.

This collaboration has resulted in the joint development of two all-electric models. Following the ID.UNYX 08, the second Volkswagen model from this cooperation will also make its debut and hit the market within this year.

VCTC is the driving force behind the development of cooperation models
The VCTC acts as XPENG’s development partner for the cooperation models. While integrating local innovations, VCTC led the definition of product design, technical validation and release, quality standards, and driving dynamics tuning — ensuring the model upholds the brand’s DNA of rigorous quality, safety and hallmark driving experience.

Meanwhile, VCTC, the Group’s software centre CARIAD China, and XPENG have jointly developed Volkswagen Group’s first locally engineered zonal electrical and electronic architecture — the China Electronic Architecture (CEA). Future-ready for all Volkswagen brand’s domestic models, it will cover both NEVs and fuel-powered vehicles. The first model based on the CEA is scheduled to enter the market this year.

Kicking-off the Volkswagen NEV product campaign
Building on its successful shift into a strategic “Delivery Mode” in 2025, the Group will further ramp up the momentum for rolling out its next-generation products and technologies in 2026, with more than 20 new NEV models scheduled for launch throughout the year. By 2030, 50 new NEV models will be introduced to the market. Backed by consistent strategic execution, a robust and forward-looking product portfolio, as well as market-leading technologies, the Volkswagen Group is fully poised to compete more proactively in China’s NEV market and maintain its position as the top international car manufacturer in China, while playing a leading role in China’s ICV era.

¹⁾ The vehicle is not offered for sale in Germany.

Škoda Enyaq explores the source of human life

admin — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:27:43 +0000

Teams from BBC Top Gear and BBC Earth take an Enyaq Coupé vRS to northern Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, one of the most remote and significant regions in the world for understanding human origins.
Journey includes a visit to the Turkana Basin Institute, a globally recognised centre for the study of early human evolution and hominid fossil discoveries.
Project reflects the meaning behind the Enyaq name, derived from the Gaelic word for ‘source’, linking human origins and ingenuity with the evolution of electric mobility.
The Enyaq covered more than 300 miles across tarmac, dirt tracks, sand, and challenging terrain, often in temperatures approaching 40°C (104 °F).
Flexible charging solutions enable electric driving in remote environments, reinforcing the adaptability of modern EV technology.

Milton Keynes, 16 March 2026 – Škoda has once again demonstrated the real-world capability of the all-electric Enyaq by embarking on an epic journey into one of the planet‘s most remote environments. The adventure saw drivers from BBC Top Gear and BBC Earth take a standard production Enyaq Coupé vRS to the Great Rift Valley in northern Kenya – often described as the Cradle of Humankind – to explore one of the most significant landscapes in human history.

Exploring the cradle of humankind
The Great Rift Valley in northern Kenya is one of the world’s most important scientific landscapes. On the shores of Lake Turkana – the world’s largest permanent desert lake – the region preserves an unparalleled record of early human evolution, with fossil evidence spanning several million years.

Shaped by ancient river systems and layers of volcanic ash, the region allows archaeologists to date discoveries with exceptional precision, creating a rare, continuous archive of evolutionary change across time.

During the visit, the team met archaeologists and researchers at the Turkana Basin Institute (TBI), founded in 2005 by renowned paleoanthropologist Dr Richard Leakey in partnership with Stony Brook University (New York). With permanent research centres on both sides of Lake Turkana, the institute is internationally recognised for its long-term scientific work focused on understanding the origins and evolution of humankind.

Beyond the scientific sites, the expedition explored a number of striking landscapes and communities across the Turkana region. These included the palm-lined oasis of Eliye Springs on the western shores of Lake Turkana; the dramatic rock formations known as the Waddach Pyramids; and the vast Natong’obong sand dunes, where the team drove to the summit for sweeping views across the lake towards Central Island – a volcanic outcrop that serves as a breeding ground for the world’s largest population of Nile crocodiles.

The journey also provided an opportunity to visit a traditional Turkana manyatta settlement, where families live in circular thatched huts built from local materials, offering insight into the region’s enduring pastoral culture. The team passed through the fishing village of Kalokol and continued to Lodwar, the region’s largest town and administrative centre, located around 10 hours by road from Nairobi.

A standard Enyaq Coupé vRS in extreme conditions
The Enyaq Coupé vRS used on the adventure was in standard production specification, with the only modification being all-terrain tyres. Powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 340 PS and with an 84 kWh battery, the car covered more than 300 miles across tarmac, dirt tracks, sand and challenging terrain, often in temperatures approaching 40°C.

All-wheel drive and instant torque provided consistent traction on loose and uneven surfaces, while Dynamic Chassis Control helped manage heavily corrugated tracks. Inside, the Enyaq’s climate-controlled cabin offered comfort and shelter from the intense heat, underlining its credentials as a practical everyday car, even in extreme conditions.

Charging where infrastructure is limited
Despite the absence of public rapid-charging infrastructure in the region, electric driving proved entirely possible. Using a three-phase power supply of the type commonly found in workshops and industrial buildings, combined with a portable charging adaptor, the Enyaq was able to charge at speeds of up to 11 kW.

This approach provided sufficient range for long days of driving and demonstrated how flexible charging solutions can support electric mobility far beyond established charging networks. In more familiar environments closer to home, the Enyaq Coupé vRS is capable of a WLTP range of up to 344 miles, suitable for longer journeys without frequent charging. DC rapid charging at up to 185 kW allows a 10-80 per cent charge in about 26 minutes.

From human evolution to electric evolution
The Turkana Basin is a place where evolution can be traced step by step – from early hominids to modern humans. By crossing this landscape in a fully electric vehicle, the expedition highlighted a clear parallel between humanity’s long history of innovation and adaptation and the ongoing evolution of mobility.

The Enyaq travelled close to sites where the world’s oldest known stone tools were discovered, as well as the location where the famous ‘Turkana Boy’ Homo erectus skeleton was unearthed in 1984. Estimated to be around 1.6 million years old, the discovery transformed scientific understanding of human anatomy, growth and behaviour. In doing so, the journey connected the origins of human ingenuity with contemporary technological progress, illustrating how innovation continues to shape the future.

Product and technology overview
The Enyaq Coupé vRS combines high performance with extensive standard equipment, well suited to both everyday driving and the demands of long-distance travel across a wide range of environments. Specification highlights include LED Matrix beam headlights, a bespoke vRS interior Design Selection with sports seats that come with a massage function for the driver.

Driving dynamics are enhanced by progressive steering and a sports chassis that lowers the front axle by 15 millimetres and the rear by 10 mm, while the optional DCC adaptive chassis control offers 15 selectable levels of stiffness.

Driving Mode Select includes a dedicated Traction mode, which optimises the four-wheel-drive system for challenging surfaces, while enhanced front brakes support the model’s performance credentials. Two external sound profiles, Sport and Futuristic, can be assigned to driving modes or selected individually via the infotainment system.

Intelligent assistance for real-world driving
Driving in northern Kenya presents a unique set of challenges, from long open roads to busy market towns where traffic and hazards are unpredictable – and where conditions can change quickly. In this environment, the advanced driver assistance systems of the Enyaq Coupé vRS provided valuable reassurance.

Travel Assist comes as standard and combines Adaptive Lane Assist, Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, Emergency Assist and Side Assist into a single, integrated system. Enhanced by online swarm data, it responds intelligently to changing surroundings by collecting and evaluating anonymous vehicle data. The system is then able to warn of approaching hazards such as slippery or damaged road surfaces.

Additional connectivity features further underline the Enyaq Coupé vRS’s focus on intelligent mobility. Smartphone-enabled functions via the MyŠkoda app support features such as Remote Park Assist, allowing the vehicle to manage complex manoeuvres autonomously while the driver supervises from outside the car. Together, these systems reflect the same principles seen throughout the expedition: using technology, data and intelligent design to make progress safer, more intuitive and better suited to the realities of modern travel – wherever the journey goes.

Pietro Panarisi, Head of PR and Communications, Škoda UK, said: “Bringing this project to life required months of careful planning, coordination and collaboration between multiple teams in the UK and Kenya. Operating in such a remote part of the world presented unique challenges, but the result is a fascinating journey and a powerful piece of storytelling that connects the origins of humankind with the evolution and future of electric mobility.

“To see the Enyaq in this extraordinary landscape was a special moment for everyone involved. It demonstrates that electric driving is not limited to familiar environments or everyday tasks – it also provides opportunity for adventure and exploration of extreme environments. Visiting a place that holds such deep significance for human history is a powerful reminder of the ingenuity, resilience and curiosity that define us.

“We are grateful to the Turkana Basin Institute for sharing their expertise, and above all to the local communities who welcomed and supported us throughout the project.”

This expedition forms part of a wider series of Enyaq adventures: in 2023, Guinness World Records recognised a Škoda Enyaq with the title for the Longest Continuous Vehicle Drift on Ice, while in 2024 a fleet of Enyaq models completed an ambitious drive to the edge of the Sahara Desert.

A feature story in the April 2026 issue of BBC Top Gear Magazine is on sale now.

Ferrari Amalfi Spider

admin — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:47:45 +0000

Ferrari today unveiled the Ferrari Amalfi Spider, a new 2+ spider from Maranello featuring a front-mid-mounted twin-turbo V8 engine.
A perfect balance of performance, elegance, driving pleasure, ease of use and versatility makes the Ferrari Amalfi Spider the benchmark for Ferrari’s performance-driven lifestyle, including in an open-air configuration.
The tailor-made or technical-fabric soft top opens in just 13.5 seconds, even at speeds of up to 60 km/h and, together with the car’s compact dimensions and generous luggage capacity, places the Ferrari Amalfi Spider among the leaders in its class.
The award-winning 640 hp twin-turbo V8 delivers outstanding performance and immediate response in all driving conditions.
The brake-by-wire system ensures more precise vehicle control, while ABS Evo, effective across all grip conditions, enhances braking performance and stability.
Active aerodynamics, with a three-position rear wing and an integrated wind deflector operated at the touch of a button, improve the open-air driving experience.

Maranello, 12 March 2026 – The new Ferrari Amalfi Spider was unveiled today: a V8 2+ spider with a front-mid-mounted engine that embodies the perfect balance between contemporary sportiness and versatility within the Ferrari range. Designed for those who want a more dynamic driving experience without compromising comfort or style, the Ferrari Amalfi Spider combines outstanding performance and everyday versatility with the unique pleasure of open-top motoring, making every journey more engaging.

The car exemplifies the Ferrari sporting lifestyle in an open-top configuration: a seamless blend of performance, elegance, driving pleasure, ease of use and versatility. With the roof down, direct contact with the road and the sensations of open-air driving become integral to the experience, without compromising everyday usability or comfort.

The design of the Ferrari Amalfi Spider was driven by the desire to preserve the proportions and volumes of the Ferrari Amalfi, retaining its elegant, flowing silhouette even with the roof open. The soft top, , a choice that enhances the car’s versatile character by giving it a clear and distinctive position within the Prancing Horse range, adds a more expressive character through a wide range of personalisation options, with four colours in tailor-made fabric and two in technical fabric, including the new Tecnico Ottanio. Optional contrast stitching further underscores both the car’s sporting character and its refined elegance. The distinctive weave of the technical fabric also creates a shimmering effect that enhances the material’s three-dimensionality.

The soft top opens in 13.5 seconds and can be operated on the move at speeds of up to 60 km/h. When folded, its compact packaging – just 220 mm thick – maximises luggage capacity, offering 255 litres with the roof closed and 172 litres with the roof open, in a layout suited to both everyday use and weekend getaways. Acoustic and thermal insulation is provided by a five-layer fabric delivering soundproofing and heat insulation comparable to that of a Ferrari retractable hard top (RHT), allowing occupants to appreciate the quality of the soft-top material even when driving with the roof down.

Like the Ferrari Amalfi, the cabin features a dual-cockpit layout and an evolved driver–car interface. Key elements include the steering wheel with physical buttons, the return of the iconic start button, the integrated central display, and controls designed for natural interaction even during the most dynamic driving. The 2+ configuration enhances practicality, with rear seats suitable for travelling with children or increasing load capacity. Completing the experience, an integrated wind deflector built into the rear bench backrest, and operated at the touch of a button, improves comfort by reducing turbulence during open-top driving.

The car’s design is based on a fluid, minimalist approach, with sculpted volumes and clean surfaces that convey modernity and dynamism. The front end is defined by a large air intake and a long, sculpted bonnet that houses the 640 hp turbocharged V8. At the rear, the integrated active spoiler contributes to high-speed stability, while forged wheels and carbon fibre details complete a sporty and sophisticated aesthetic.