ToyotaUk

Toyota Renews Commitment to Rebelle Rally for 2023

  • Fielding six competition teams with twelve participants in this year’s event
  • Once again, the presenting sponsor of the event’s Live Webcast

PLANO, Texas (June 23, 2023) – Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has announced that it will continue to support the Rebelle Rally, the premier women-only, off-road navigation rally. In 2023, Toyota will have a total of 12 participants forming six teams to compete in the event, doubling the number from last year. The Toyota representatives will be selected from various areas of the company, including CALTY Design, Manufacturing, Production Engineering, and Research and Development. Additionally, Toyota will once again serve as the presenting sponsor of the live webcast of the event.

Kristen Tabar, the group vice president of Advanced Mobility Research and Development at Toyota Motor North America, commented, “This event is important to us and provides a great opportunity for the women in our company. The Rebelle Rally is a unique and empowering experience that aligns with our values of pushing boundaries, learning by doing, and fostering a supportive and inclusive culture. We believe that our team members will not only have fun and learn from this adventure, but also bring back valuable insights and skills to their work and teams.”

The Rebelle Rally is an eight-day endurance event that will take place from October 12-21, 2023. It covers over 2,000 kilometers of challenging terrain in the deserts of California and Nevada. The rally stands out because competitors are required to navigate using only a map and compass, without the use of GPS or electronic devices.

As a Silver Sponsor and the Presenting Sponsor of Rebelle Rally’s Live Webcast for the second year in a row, Toyota will support the broadcast of the event on the rally’s website, YouTube, and Facebook. The coverage will include reviews of the format, standings, competitor interviews, live updates from the course, highlights, and a behind-the-scenes look at team planning and strategy.

Lisa Materazzo, the group vice president of Toyota Division Marketing at Toyota Motor North America, said, “We are excited to renew our commitment to Rebelle Rally and continue as the Silver Sponsor and the official Presenting Sponsor of the Live Webcast. This sponsorship allows us not only to showcase our exceptional Toyota trucks but also to support the remarkable endeavors of our team members. It is an honor to be associated with such an empowering event, and we are eager to contribute to an unforgettable experience.”

To follow Toyota’s teams and track their progress along with other participants as they navigate the challenging desert terrain, visit www.rebellerally.com/live.

More details about the Toyota teams participating in Rebelle Rally will be announced at a later date.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for over 65 years and is dedicated to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through its Toyota and Lexus brands, as well as its network of more than 1,800 dealerships.

In North America, Toyota directly employs over 48,000 people who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks across 13 manufacturing plants. Starting in 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will produce automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. As the automaker with the most electrified vehicles on the road, Toyota currently offers 22 electrified options.

Through its Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights how it partners with community, civic, academic, and governmental organizations to address society’s most pressing mobility challenges. Toyota believes that when people have the freedom to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About Rebelle Rally

The Rebelle Rally is the longest competitive off-road rally in the United States. Covering over 2,500 kilometers through Nevada and California’s iconic terrain, it is an endurance competition for women that emphasizes precision driving and navigation rather than speed. The competition is innovative and unique, using maps, compasses, roadbooks, and strategies in the Rebelle Format. GPS and other electronic devices are strictly prohibited. As a remote and off-grid event for eight competition days, the Rebelle Rally serves as a proving ground for people, products, and stock manufacturer vehicles.

To learn more, visit www.rebellerally.com.

ToyotaUk

Toyota Racing Driver Ken Gushi On His Love of Drift

Ken Gushi is a racing driver for Team Toyota and a well-known figure in the world of Formula Drift. He has been driving for the series for as long as it has been in the United States, and he has always been behind the wheel of a Toyota.

Gushi expresses his excitement about being partnered with Toyota, stating that it is a dream come true for him. He grew up watching his father race the AE86 Corolla, and his family has always owned Toyota cars. Being able to represent Toyota as an athlete and share his story is something that still makes him feel good even after 15 years.

Gushi, who was born in Japan and now lives in Southern California, competes in Formula Drift with a Toyota GR Supra. He developed his love for drifting at a young age, learning to drive in his father’s Toyota AE86 when he was only 13 years old.

Despite coming from a family with limited financial resources, Gushi’s determination and talent led him to become the youngest competitor in the D1 Grand Prix and Formula Drift championships at the age of 16. He firmly believes that there is no dream too big to pursue.

Throughout his more than a decade-long partnership with Toyota, Gushi has become one of the most recognizable figures in drifting and has played a crucial role in the sport’s growth. He attributes his success to the support he has received from fans and the dedicated team members who have been with him throughout his journey.

Ken Gushi, Moty’s / Three’s Racing Toyota GR86

The Drift Difference

Drifting is a unique form of racing in which drivers maneuver their cars through a marked course while deliberately sliding sideways at high speeds. Unlike other motorsports that focus on speed or time, drifting is judged based on the execution and style of the slides.

In a Formula Drift event, drivers compete in tandem battles in a single-elimination bracket format. The drivers are ranked and placed into a bracket based on their qualifications, determining the pairs for the competition. Each driver competes one-on-one against another, and they are judged on their ability to complete the course with a high angle while maintaining fluidity and forward momentum.

Although drifting originated in Japan, Formula Drift is the first official drifting series in North America, established in 2003. Gushi has been involved in drifting for over 17 seasons and has witnessed the growth of the sport in the United States from its early days. He started his professional career in 2004, competing in the inaugural Formula Drift Championship in the U.S.

For Gushi, drifting is not just a job but a hobby that he is fortunate enough to get paid for. He feels a sense of accomplishment and joy when participating in the sport.

A Series Leader

Gushi has achieved multiple top-three finishes in the Formula Pro Championship standings throughout his career. His first victory was in 2005, which he remembers as a significant accomplishment and a moment of great happiness.

In 2019, as the owner-driver for Ken Gushi Motorsports, he finished 11th in the final standings and secured his first victory since 2005 in the series finale at Irwindale Speedway. His most recent win was in Salt Lake City in 2022.

During the Irwindale event, Gushi began the race in second position with his Toyota 86 and advanced to the Final Four after competing against several other drivers. In the final series, he faced a tough battle but ultimately emerged as the winner at the “House of Drift” in front of his home crowd. The victory holds a special place in his heart and is a moment he will never forget.

PeugeotUk

Peugeot Opens Orders for New 508 and New 508 SW

Peugeot has started accepting orders for the new 508, 508 SW, and 508 Peugeot Sport Engineered models. These models come with updated exterior and interior designs, new technologies, and simplified trim options. The prices for the new 508 range start at £34,020 OTR MRRP, while the Peugeot Sport Engineered variants start at £53,825. Deliveries are expected to begin in September.

The new Peugeot 508 range features various updates in exterior and interior styling that incorporate the latest Peugeot design developments. The front now boasts an extended grille with the Peugeot shield, body-colored accents on Allure and GT variants, and a black grille for a more aggressive look in the Peugeot Sport Engineered models.

Peugeot has also upgraded the front and rear lighting for all new 508 variants. Matrix LED headlights with the iconic 3-claw signature are now standard across all models, and the rear lights feature new Full 3D lights with the same signature and scrolling direction indicators.

The design update includes the introduction of two new wheel designs. Allure models offer 17-inch ‘MERION’ wheels with a new finish, and GT models come with 18-inch ‘EPHERRA’ wheels. Additionally, GT models offer 19-inch ‘AUGUSTA’ wheels as an option. The color options have expanded with the addition of three new metallic paints: Eclipse Blue, Titane Grey, and Okenite White. Selenium Grey, previously exclusive to the Peugeot Sport Engineered versions, is now available throughout the range.

Interior styling updates

Several changes have been made to the interior design of the new 508. Allure models now include a new half-leather trim with ‘Falgo’ cloth and ‘Quartz’ stitch detail. GT models feature a half-leather trim with Alcantara® and ‘Aikinite’ stitching. The optional ‘Mistral Black Nappa Leather’ seats now have the new Peugeot shield embossed on the front seat headrests. The steering wheel in all new 508 variants now also showcases the new Peugeot shield, and GT variants have PEUGEOT lettering on the front door sills.

Technology

One major update across the new 508 range is that every variant now comes standard with the Peugeot i-Connect® Advanced infotainment and 3D Connected Navigation. The 10-inch HD touchscreen can be fully customized, like a tablet, with eight individual driver and passenger profiles. The voice recognition command, “OK Peugeot,” enhances safety and convenience. The driver instrument cluster features a new design inspired by the new 308 and 408 range, and a new e-Toggle replaces the previous gear selector. PLUG-IN HYBRID variants offer an additional control to adjust the level of regenerative braking. The new 508 models also include upgrades in cameras, connectivity, and charging options.

Simplified trim line-up

Along with the model updates, Peugeot has simplified the trim line-up for both the new 508 and 508 SW. The models are now available in Allure, GT, and Peugeot Sport Engineered variants, making it easier for customers to choose the right model for their needs.

The prices for the new 508 start at £34,020 OTR MRRP, while the new 508 SW models start at £35,220 OTR MRRP. The high-performance Peugeot Sport Engineered models start at £53,825 OTR MRRP for the Fastback and £55,025 OTR MRRP for the SW.

New 508 Pricing

TRIM

ENGINE

OTR MRRP

ALLURE

1.2L PureTech 130 EAT8

£34,020

PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8

£43,640

GT

1.2L PureTech 130 EAT8

£36,670

PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8

£46,290

PEUGEOT SPORT ENGINEERED

PLUG-IN HYBRID4 360 e-EAT8 4WD

£53,825

New 508 SW Pricing

TRIM

ENGINE

OTR MRRP

ALLURE

1.2L PureTech 130 EAT8

£35,220

PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8

£44,840

GT

1.2L PureTech 130 EAT8

£37,870

PLUG-IN HYBRID 225 e-EAT8

£47,490

PEUGEOT SPORT ENGINEERED

PLUG-IN HYBRID4 360 e-EAT8 4WD

£55,025
Car review

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N prototype

Hyundai is keeping a lot of details about its first electric performance car, the Ioniq 5 N, under wraps. This includes information on price, power, torque, weight, battery size, and even how some of the modes work.

However, after driving the car extensively on both road and track, it’s clear that Hyundai’s N division, known for producing engaging hot hatches, has fully embraced the electric era. The Ioniq 5 N delivers a fun and exciting driving experience like no other electric vehicle I’ve ever encountered.

The Ioniq 5 N is a big and tall crossover that has been reinforced in certain areas, similar to what N did with the i20. It features new suspension subframes and unique kinematics, including enhanced camber, quicker steering, a reinforced steering rack, and four-wheel drive with motors at each end. The car also has the ability to divert power as desired by the driver. Other notable features include 235/35 R21 Pirelli P Zero tires, the largest front brake discs ever fitted by Hyundai (measuring 400mm), and improved battery cooling. N aims to make this car suitable for track driving, with a 20-minute drive and 15-minute charging capability.

In terms of driving modes, the Ioniq 5 N offers a wide range of options. It combines the numerous driving-mode combinations found in the i30 N with all the capabilities of a four-wheel drive electric vehicle, including torque-vectoring and adjustable front-to-rear power distribution. The car even features synthetic engine noises, including one that mimics an internal combustion engine, along with a simulated tachometer and gearshift via steering-mounted paddles. An engineer sitting beside the driver prevented the use of the drift mode during the drive, highlighting that the Ioniq 5 N offers more than just silliness. It provides exceptional dynamic performance. This car represents a significant advancement in the fun and enjoyment of electric vehicles, far exceeding what was possible in the previous year’s big EV handling test. While the Kia EV6 GT finished third in that test, the Ioniq 5 N has raised the bar by delivering genuine performance-car capabilities.

News

MG 4 XPower: Powerful Electric Hot Hatch with 429bhp and 239-mile Range

Learn about the specifications of the MG 4 XPower hot hatch, which will be officially unveiled later this summer.

The XPower features a high-performance electric powertrain that delivers an impressive 429bhp and 443lb ft of torque, more than double the power of the MG 4 Long Range.

With this power, the XPower can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds, on par with top petrol-engined hot hatches such as the Mercedes-AMG A45 (3.9sec), and has a top speed of 124mph.

While the hot hatch uses the same 62kWh battery as the Long Range model, the range has been reduced from 281 miles to 239 miles due to the significant increase in performance.

Charging the XPower from 10% to 80% takes 35 minutes when using a 150kW charger.

Inside, the XPower is similar to the regular Trophy model, but with some changes including Alcantara bucket seats and metal pedals.

The XPower also comes equipped with a “dynamic driving management” system that provides data such as lap times and a g-force meter.

It is not yet known if the XPower will have any styling changes to reflect its sporty nature, such as a wide-arch body kit or rear spoiler. In China, where the car is called the Mulan Triumph edition, it features bright-green paint and a wider, lower stance.

MG Mulan Triumph Edition front

A major car dealer listing suggests that the XPower will come with 18-inch alloy wheels in a “cyclone” design and orange-painted brake calipers.

The starting price for the XPower is expected to be £36,495, excluding optional extras. Additional features include an exclusive British Racing Green paint finish priced at £800.

The XPower is anticipated to be showcased as the “sporting” model alongside the MG Cyberster electric roadster and the new EX4 concept car at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Little information is available about the EX4 at this time, but MG has described it as a “dramatic” prototype that has been designed and built in Britain.

First Drive

Peugeot e-2008 GT 2023 first drive

The Peugeot e-2008 has received an updated version of the e-CMP platform with a bigger 54kWh lithium-ion battery. This increase in battery capacity has boosted the car’s WLTP range from 214 to 251 miles. The new battery system also brings improved efficiency, with official figures showing an efficiency of 5.0mpkWh, which is better than its rivals such as the MG ZS EV Long Range.

In terms of styling, the e-2008 now features a more aggressive and wider-looking front end with headlights and tail lights similar to those found on the Peugeot 508. Inside the car, higher-spec models offer new materials and a 10.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

It’s important to note that the 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine will still be available as an option in the Peugeot 2008 range, with the same style and interface updates.

While there haven’t been any changes to the suspension or steering, the e-2008 now comes with a more powerful 154bhp motor. Despite not being a performance-oriented vehicle, the e-2008 offers a pleasant mid-speed urgency and feels pokey enough for fast motorway merges. It also provides a comfortable and composed ride, even on 18-inch alloy wheels.

During acceleration from a standstill with a significant amount of lock applied, the front tyres may scrabble and squirm, causing the e-2008 to understeer when attempting sharp corners. However, overall, it performs well and offers a quiet and intuitive driving experience whether in urban environments or on scenic roads.

News

Volkswagen SSP EV platform to offer up to 1700bhp from 2026

Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to launch its comprehensive SSP (Scalable Systems Platform) electric architecture in 2026, despite potential delays to 2028/29 that were previously mentioned.

Blume stated that the architecture will cover a wide range of vehicles, from city cars to sports cars, with power exceeding 1700bhp. Initially, VW had planned for the SSP to handle around 1100bhp.

“The SSP architecture will balance the need for scale and standardization with differentiation and speed,” Blume emphasized.

The SSP architecture was initially announced in 2021 with a planned launch date in 2026, starting with Audi’s Artemis project. However, delays, particularly concerning the crucial software 2.0, caused development to be pushed back to 2028/29, as previously stated by executives like VW brand CEO Thomas Schäfer.

VW Group brands will share architecture modules across 40 million vehicles as part of their efforts to standardize parts and increase economies of scale, with the goal of reducing the high price of electric cars. Blume stated that “most” vehicles on the SSP platform will achieve profit margin parity with internal-combustion-engined cars, compared to only “some” on the group’s MEB electric car platform.

“Architectures cover up to 75% of all material costs for BEV, compared to up to 10% for ICE,” Blume explained. “Therefore, architectures are a key driver for profitability in the future.”

One component that will be shared across all models is the planned ‘Unified’ battery cell, which will be manufactured in future VW plants and can accommodate a range of chemistries, including the cost-effective LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate).

Blume also revealed new performance details about SSP cars, including a 10%-80% charging time reduced to an average of 12 minutes, compared to the existing 35 minutes for MEB models. Additionally, the software 2.0 and electronic architecture will enable hands-free driving up to level four.

News

Jet lag for EV drivers as Heathrow shuts chargers

The switch to bio-fuels and more efficient engines by airlines may give the impression of green initiatives, but drivers of electric vehicles using Heathrow Airport in the UK have been left stranded as the major charging network has been unexpectedly turned off. Neither the airport nor the charging company has provided an explanation for this sudden shutdown.

In order to cater to the growing number of electric car users at the airport, Heathrow had installed more than 25 chargers as part of its Pod Point network in the short-stay car parks. However, over the past few months, drivers have discovered that these chargers are no longer functional and have taken to social media to express their frustration.

Jonathan Whelan, owner of a Tesla Model 3, shared his disappointment, stating, “Looks permanently shut now. All powered down.” Another theory circulating is that Heathrow failed to renew its contract with Pod Point. However, neither Pod Point nor Heathrow provided a reason for the sudden shutdown, with Heathrow only mentioning that it is “developing plans to meet the growing demand.”

Although the Pod Point chargers at Heathrow have been deactivated, there are alternative charging options available for electric vehicle drivers. Networks such as BP Pulse and Polar offer chargers at various locations near the airport, including major hotels and some nearby car parks. Additionally, Tesla Supercharger sites are available at terminals 2, 3, and 5.

Furthermore, some valet parking services at Heathrow now offer EV charging. One of the first companies to do so is Park Giant UK, a meet-and-greet parking operator. They launched their EV charging service in January 2022 and currently charge around 40 cars per week. Charging is available through slow, three-pin sockets in their storage compound or, upon customer request, at the nearby Tesla Supercharge facility at the Hilton, Terminal 5.

Bob Gill, director of Park Giant UK, shared his satisfaction with the demand for EV charging services and expects it to increase further as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expansion takes effect and more people switch to electric vehicles.

Not only at Heathrow but also at airports across the UK, the provision of charger facilities is inconsistent, with many chargers available in car parks and hotels in an apparently ad hoc manner. Autocar contacted the UK’s 10 busiest airports for details on their charger provision, and only Luton and Gatwick responded. Luton confirmed the availability of 10 7kW chargers in Terminal Car Park 1, while Gatwick has 24 22kW charge points across its public car parks. Moreover, Gatwick will soon have a dedicated EV charging facility called the Gatwick Electric Forecourt, provided by Gridserve. It will be located on the approach to the airport’s South Terminal and feature 36 medium and high-power chargers. Newcastle is also set to have a dedicated EV forecourt with up to 12 charging bays in 2024, pending planning permission, through a partnership with charging operator Fastned.

Lamborghini

Lamborghini Hatfield: Official Opening of Eleventh UK Lamborghini Dealership

Expansive new showroom inaugurated together with unveiling of commemorative Lamborghini 60th anniversary artwork

Sant’Agata Bolognese/Hatfield 22 June 2023 – The Lamborghini Hatfield dealership has officially opened with a gala VIP event at its new location, making it the eleventh official franchised outlet for Automobili Lamborghini in the UK. The dealership, owned and operated by HR Owen Group, one of the UK’s largest luxury and sports car dealer groups, features a spacious showroom and aftersales facilities to cater to the growing Lamborghini car market in the UK.

The Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, Stephan Winkelmann, expressed his appreciation for the investment made by HR Owen in the new dealership. He stated, “This is a very significant investment and commitment by our franchise partner HR Owen, that reflects the strength of the Lamborghini brand in the UK and in turn our commitment to the UK market. Lamborghini’s appeal, not only in terms of our models’ desirability but a fascination with the brand, continues to build in the UK and around the world: this new dealership and its representation of our marque is an endorsement of Lamborghini’s attractiveness as a super sports car manufacturer and global luxury brand.”

The Lamborghini Hatfield showroom, located in Mosquito Way, Hatfield, is spread across 500 sq m and features an upstairs mezzanine lounge offering views of the showroom below. It also includes a dedicated Ad Personam studio, where customers can personalize their new Lamborghini by choosing from a wide range of color and trim options. Additionally, the 870 sq m aftersales facility comprises a 14-bay technical center and a drive-in service reception that utilizes advanced scanning technology to appraise the condition of cars upon check-in.

Over 200 guests, including Lamborghini executives and Lamborghini Hatfield and HR Owen management, attended the grand opening event. As part of the Lamborghini 60th anniversary celebrations in 2023, a unique artwork by local artist Mark Evans was unveiled at the dealership. The artwork features a bull etched on leather and is one of many commissioned by Lamborghini dealers worldwide.

The showcased cars at the event included the new Lamborghini Revuelto, the brand’s first V12 super sports plug-in hybrid HPEV (High Performance Electrified Vehicle). The Huracán Sterrato, produced in a limited quantity of 1499 units, all of which are sold, was also on display along with a Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 and the current Huracán and Urus Super SUV ranges.

HR Owen CEO Ken Choo commended the opening of Lamborghini Hatfield, emphasizing the significant investment and commitment made by HR Owen to Lamborghini. He stated, “Our Hatfield development, the culmination of Berjaya Group founder, Vincent Tan’s vision to create the ultimate supercar experience, is truly a destination for our Lamborghini clients, with the space and facilities to not only display new and pre-owned models and provide the best aftersales care possible, but to create events and host activities that reflect Lamborghini’s Italian super sports heritage and lifestyle.”

Automobili Lamborghini currently has eleven dealerships in the UK, including locations owned by HR Owen in London, Manchester, and Pangbourne, as well as Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leicester, Chelmsford, Tunbridge Wells, Bristol, and Leeds. In 2022, Automobili Lamborghini achieved its best-ever annual results, with global deliveries reaching 9,233 units and turnover exceeding €2 billion for the first time. The UK is the fourth largest market for Lamborghini worldwide, following the USA, Chinese mainland/Hong Kong/Macau, and Germany. In 2022, the UK delivered 650 cars, reflecting a 15% increase compared to the previous year.

[1] The vehicle is not yet offered for sale and is therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94/EC. The fuel consumption and emissions data are in the type of approval stage.

[2] Fuel consumption and emission values of Huracán Sterrato; Fuel consumption combined: 14,9 l/100km (WLTP); CO2-emissions combined: 337 g/km (WLTP)

Featured

Jerry Seinfeld Takes Delivery Of His $1.2M Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe

Since its debut in the automotive world in 1964, the coveted Porsche 911 has continued an ongoing legacy as the ultimate sports car. Earlier this month, Porsche Classic auctioned a special one-off car dedicated to the Porsche Club of America: the 911 Classic Club Coupe. The Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe sold for an astonishing $1.2 million to a private collector at the 75th Anniversary Porsche Auction held at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta, Georgia by Broad Arrow Auctions. Discovered through the community of passionate Porsche enthusiasts, the seven-figure 996 generation Porsche was purchased by none other than American comedian and Porsche fanatic Jerry Seinfeld.

Jerry Seinfeld just recently took delivery of the 911 Classic Club Coupe as part of a private event where he accepted the keys and took his first drive. Joining a collection that includes examples like the very first production Porsche 911, a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS, and countless other historic Porsches, the PCA 911 Classic Club Coupe is in good hands with Jerry Seinfeld. Now that the Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe is safely in the hands of its proud owner, we hope to see Jerry Seinfeld displaying his new prized possession at future events. View all current Porsche 911 models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.

View All Porsche 911 For Sale