An ideal seashore cruiser or commuter with type.
Tag Archives: beach
BARNICOAT, THOMPSON CLAIM SECOND STRAIGHT LONG BEACH TRIUMPH FOR LEXUS AND VASSER SULLIVAN
LONG BEACH, Calif. (April 22, 2024) – Following a GT class track-record pole by Parker Thompson on Friday, the No. 89 Lexus RC F GT3 captured the GTD class victory within the Grand Prix of Long Beach on Saturday. Thompson, together with Ben Barnicoat, delivered Lexus and Vasser Sullivan’s second consecutive win on the streets of Long Beach (GTD PRO class winners in 2023) and the second consecutive win this season for the crew following the GTD PRO victory at Sebring final month.
The No. 89 was in management for many of the 100-minute dash race on the best way to victory. Thompson led the best way early on, constructing a multi-second hole to the pack behind him throughout his 40-minute stint. With one hour and two minutes remaining, Thompson introduced the No. 89 into the pits the place Barnicoat took over and adopted swimsuit. The Brit by no means seemed again throughout his run, even with a late-race warning, in the end reaching victory lane when the checkered flag flew.
The victory marks the second GTD class victory for each drivers, coupling Barnicoat’s class win at Detroit in 2022 and Thompson’s win final season at Watkins Glen. Overall, that is Barnicoat’s seventh profession IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship win and the second for Thompson.
Jack Hawksworth and Frankie Montecalvo got here residence fifteenth within the GTD class with the No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3. The No. 12 began on the entrance row subsequent to its sister automotive with Montecalvo behind the wheel. However, an early-race penalty dropped the New Jersey native to the rear of the GTD class. Montecalvo fought his means again up the sector earlier than handing the wheel to Hawksworth with simply over an hour remaining. Hawksworth additionally confirmed super grit, battling his means up the operating order earlier than struggling left rear harm to the Lexus RC F after contact with 33 minutes remaining, which ended the day early for the No. 12 crew.
The Vasser Sullivan Lexus crew returns to motion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on Sunday, May 12. To sustain with all of the racing motion, comply with Lexus Racing on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok by utilizing #LexusEfficiency.
Vasser Sullivan Driver Quotes
BEN BARNICOAT, No. 89 Lexus RC F GT3
What does it imply to get one other win right here Long Beach?
“I have to say a huge thank you to the team. Vasser Sullivan and Lexus Racing USA, TRD (Toyota Racing Development). We’re on a bit of a roll at the moment, but we had a fantastic season last year, and Daytona is just a small bump in the road. Very lucky to be on this team with all the work they put in, with the hours of dedication to excellence. I don’t believe there’s any other GT team operating, pushing as hard as we are. The results aren’t a shock. You get what you put out, right? I’ve put so much into this and I’m just happy I can deliver the results for them. To go back-to-back here at Long Beach is special. This track is amazing and it’s an amazing venue. The atmosphere of having this race with INDYCAR; I owe Jimmy (Vasser, co-owner) and Sulli (James Sullivan, co-owner) big thank you’s to race in the GTD class today. They gave me a rocket ship RC F GT3. It’s pretty special to be back up here.”
PARKER THOMPSON, No. 89 Lexus RC F GT3
Was it a fairly easy race from the pole place at this time?
“It’s pretty tough when you know execution is the only thing between you and winning the race. There were a lot of pros that qualified yesterday, so I was up against a pretty tough field at the start. But I controlled the race from the start beginning and got a good jump, got into turn 1, handled a couple restarts and saved our Lexus RC F GT3 to make sure Mr. Platinum himself beside me (Ben Barnicoat) could bring it home. It was good!. Really cool, you know the number 89, the significance behind that is 1989 was the first time Lexus came stateside to the U.S. Awesome to honor them and get the win for them. Back-to-back at Long Beach is fantastic.”
JACK HAWKSWORTH, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
How would you describe your day?
“It was a very disappointing day. About everything that could go wrong did from the start. The No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus guys worked hard all weekend so I’m very disappointed for them, but no doubt they’ll come back fighting.”
FRANKIE MONTECALVO, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
What was your race like at this time?
“It was a tough day for the 12 car. The Vasser Sullivan team gave us a great car and we had a great starting position. But sadly, we received that penalty on the start. And then, we decided to chip away and get our places back one-by-one. But at the end of the day, we had to retire early due to some contact. Congrats to the No. 89 Lexus RC F GT3 for getting the win. Would’ve loved to be there in the end with them up front. Want to thank Vasser Sullivan for the great car and team. Also, I want to thank Lexus for keeping us in the mix.”
About Lexus
Lexus’ ardour for courageous design, imaginative expertise, and exhilarating efficiency allows the luxurious way of life model to create superb experiences for its prospects. Lexus started its journey in 1989 with two luxurious sedans and a dedication to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to fulfill the wants of worldwide luxurious prospects in additional than 90 nations. In the United States, Lexus autos are bought by way of 244 sellers providing a full lineup of luxurious autos. With eight fashions incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxurious hybrid chief. Lexus additionally gives 9 F SPORT fashions, one F efficiency mannequin and one F mannequin. Lexus is dedicated to being a visionary model that anticipates the long run for luxurious prospects.
www.facebook.com/lexus
www.twitter.com/lexus
www.youtube.com/LexusVehicles
www.instagram.com/lexususa
www.pinterest.com/lexususa
![]()
Add to Cart![]()
Print![]()
Convert to PDF
Add to Cart
Print
Convert to PDF
IMSA Long Beach: Strong tempo of the BMW M Hybrid V8 goes unrewarded – Turner Motorsport on the GTD podium.
Long Beach. In the primary dash race of the season within the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship at Long Beach (USA), BMW M Team RLL was unable to realize the hoped-for first podium end of the 12 months after a powerful qualifying. Nick Yelloly (GBR) and Connor De Phillippi (USA) began the 100-minute race from second place however initially fell again throughout their pit cease in a yellow flag interval and later resulting from a broken entrance on the tight avenue circuit in California. While Philipp Eng (AUT) and Jesse Krohn (FIN) within the #24 BMW M Hybrid V8 completed in sixth place, Turner Motorsport celebrated a podium within the GTD class .
In the third race of the season, following the endurance classics at Daytona and Sebring (each USA), BMW M Team RLL was denied the primary podium of the 12 months 2024 regardless of the sturdy tempo of the BMW M Hybrid V8. In the primary half of the race, Yelloly held his floor within the main group and even took the lead. However, a yellow flag simply earlier than the deliberate pit cease for the #25 BMW M Hybrid V8, which introduced the sphere again collectively, resulted in De Phillippi falling again to fifth place. There, he was repeatedly concerned in tight duels, resulting in collisions and in the end a broken entrance that needed to be modified within the pits. A number of laps earlier than the tip, the race for automobile #25 ended after a slip into the tyre obstacles. De Phillippi and Yelloly have been categorized ninth within the GTP class. Eng and Krohn, ranging from ninth place, discovered it troublesome to maneuver ahead on the road circuit however collected essential factors with a sixth-place end.
BMW M works driver Robby Foley and his teammate Patrick Gallagher (each USA) had purpose to have fun. The duo made a powerful comeback within the Turner Motorsport #96 BMW M4 GT3, ranging from seventh place and ending second on the rostrum within the GTD class.
Reactions after the race:
Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “Part one of the first double-header with our BMW M Hybrid V8 in the IMSA series and the FIA WEC unfortunately did not bring the hoped-for first podium of the season. After starting from second place and showing strong pace in the race, the positions of sixth and ninth are disappointing. Nevertheless, it is good to see that our LMDh car is competitive on all tracks and over all race distances in its second year in the IMSA series. We will continue to work hard to reward ourselves with corresponding results. The next opportunity to do so will be in May at Laguna Seca. Congratulations to Turner Motorsport, Robby Foley, and Patrick Gallagher on the podium in the GTD class. I am pleased to see that the circuit in Long Beach continues to be good ground for the BMW M4 GT3 after the last two years’ victories.”
Jesse Krohn (#24 BMW M Hybrid V8, sixth place): “The field was so close together that it was extremely difficult to move forward. Due to the yellow flags, the lapping of the GTD drivers, which we had hoped to take advantage of, did not come into play as expected. That is of course disappointing because the performance of the car was much better than the result. At least we took some points. Now we focus on Laguna Seca.”
Nick Yelloly (#25 BMW M Hybrid V8, ninth place): “The race did not go well. My stint was okay, even though I was unlucky once when lapping and lost a place because of it, but the yellow flag just before our pit stop put us on the back foot. We wanted to make up ground with a late stop, but the regrouping of the field nullified this strategy. We had a very strong car here in qualifying, and we were also among the fastest in the race when we could run freely. Especially in the corners, we were better than our competitors. We will continue to work on improving even further.”
FIA WEC at Imola, IMSA at Long Beach: BMW M Hybrid V8 faces an eventful double-header weekend.
Imola/Long Beach. Four BMW M Hybrid V8s, two continents. The BMW M Motorsport LMDh prototypes are dealing with an intense racing weekend. While BMW M Team WRT competes at Imola (ITA) with two Hypercars within the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) for the second race of the season, BMW M Team RLL is aiming for the season’s first podium within the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship (IMSA sequence) at Long Beach (USA). The BMW M4 GT3 is concentrating on the rostrum in each Italy and California.
FIA WEC: BMW M Team WRT competes at Imola.
At the 6 Hours of Imola, the FIA WEC is making its first European cease this yr. BMW M Motorsport engineers and BMW M Team WRT have analysed the difficult season opener in Qatar with the 2 BMW M Hybrid V8s over the previous weeks and have labored intensively to enhance the automotive. Behind the wheel of automotive #15 are Raffaele Marciello (SUI), Dries Vanthoor (BEL), and Marco Wittmann (GER). The sister automotive, the #20 BMW M Hybrid V8, is shared by Robin Frijns (NED), René Rast (GER), and Sheldon van der Linde (RSA).
In the LMGT3 class, Team WRT made a powerful impression in Qatar, with the #46 BMW M4 GT3 narrowly lacking the rostrum on the opener. At Imola, the crew will likely be carried by a particular tailwind; Valentino Rossi (ITA) begins his dwelling race, with the Imola monitor being lower than two hours’ drive from his birthplace Urbino (ITA). The 45-year-old Italian will be a part of Ahmad Al Harthy (OMA) and BMW M works driver Maxime Martin (BEL) for the 6 Hours of Imola. Driven by quite a few Tifosi anticipated alongside the monitor, the native hero and his team-mates are aiming for a podium end. In the sister automotive, the #31 BMW M4 GT3, BMW M works driver Augusto Farfus (BRA), Sean Gelael (INA), and Darren Leung (GBR) will take turns.
The Imola race begins on Sunday at 13:00 CEST.
IMSA sequence: Street circuit at Long Beach as a great omen.
Two BMW M Hybrid V8s are additionally required within the IMSA sequence this coming weekend. BMW M Team RLL begins with good recollections on the Long Beach avenue circuit. Last yr, Connor De Phillippi (USA) and Nick Yelloly (GBR) celebrated second place on the rostrum within the #25 BMW M Hybrid V8. Philipp Eng (AUT) and Augusto Farfus (BRA) accomplished the robust group outcome within the GTP class with a fourth place.
With the momentum from 2023 outcomes, the group and drivers wish to underline the robust efficiency of the BMW M Hybrid V8 from the primary two weekends of the present yr and at last reward themselves with the primary podium within the third race of the IMSA season. As final yr, De Phillippi and Yelloly begin within the #25 BMW M Hybrid V8. Eng shares the sister #24 automotive this yr with Jesse Krohn (FIN).
In the GTD class, BMW M Motorsport groups additionally look again on a formidable historical past at Long Beach. Paul Miller Racing triumphed final yr with the #1 BMW M4 GT3. In 2024, Turner Motorsport sends a BMW M4 GT3 onto the three.167-kilometre monitor. BMW M works driver Robby Foley and Patrick Gallagher (each USA) enter the 100-minute dash race with automotive #96. The shortest race of the season – alongside the Detroit Grand Prix – begins on Saturday at 16:35 native time (22:35 CEST).
Statement earlier than the races at Imola and Long Beach:
Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “We are facing the first race weekend where we are competing with the BMW M Hybrid V8 at two major events on two continents simultaneously. We are competing on the biggest stages of prototype racing against top-notch competition. It’s spectacular and exactly the challenge we’ve been looking forward to since BMW M Motorsport’s entry into the LMDh category was confirmed. At the FIA WEC opener in Qatar, we realised that we need to improve significantly to compete at the level we expect of ourselves in the world championship. We have worked hard over the past weeks and expect to be able to make the first progress at Imola. In the IMSA series, we experienced one of our strongest races at Long Beach in 2023. With second and fourth places, we were very close to our first victory with the BMW M Hybrid V8. Now we hope that we can fight for the lead again this time and thus convert the speed we have already shown at Daytona and Sebring into top results. Both in the FIA WEC and in the IMSA series, we are also very well positioned with the BMW M4 GT3. I expect our teams to have a chance of winning in both racing series.”
Marco Wittmann (BMW M Team WRT, #15 BMW M Hybrid V8): “I am really looking forward to competing in the FIA WEC again this weekend. Italy is a beautiful country. I like the ambiance, the food, and the people – so I’m really looking forward to it. Imola is a very historic racetrack that I know from DTM. In 2022, I made it to the podium there, so I have good memories. We have conducted some tests and simulator sessions since the opener in Qatar and hopefully will make a step forward.”
Maxime Martin (Team WRT, #46 BMW M4 GT3): “It will be a special weekend for us because it’s Valentino’s home race in the FIA WEC. I therefore expect it to be very crowded, and I anticipate many spectators with high expectations at the track. Our first race in Qatar was really solid with a fourth-place finish. We will try to improve our package and aim for the podium. That would be a good result, also in terms of the world championship. I know the track and am confident that Ahmad, Valentino, and I will be competitive. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Philipp Eng (BMW M Team RLL, #24 BMW M Hybrid V8): “I am really looking forward to the race at Long Beach. It’s a very cool track for the first sprint race of the season. Last year we had a strong race here. We have developed the car in a good direction, and the result of the 12h Sebring did not fully reflect our performance. We have made some adjustments, and I am confident that we can achieve a top result.”
Inside Meyers Manx: essentially the most enjoyable automobile firm on this planet?
You won’t know the Meyers Manx identify, however you positively know its form.
This is the unique seaside buggy: designed within the Nineteen Sixties as a no-frills, Beetle-based interest automobile that could possibly be assembled cheaply at house. It is, in case you like, America’s tackle the Caterham.
It’s the brainchild of the legendary Bruce Meyers, who accomplished his first automobile in 1964 and was 94 when he and spouse Winnie lastly retired in 2020, and continued to contribute to its story till he died a yr later.
“We got some time with him before he passed, which was great,” says Michael Potiker, a accomplice at Trousdale Ventures – the enterprise capital agency “that’s basically incubating Meyers Manx”, having acquired it from Bruce in 2020.
“He wasn’t ill when we did the deal. It wasn’t something we needed to get done because he was going to pass away. It seemed like he was going to live forever. He had that vibe to him,” says Potiker.
Meyers’ authentic firm, BF Meyers & Co, was really a comparatively short-lived enterprise, folding in 1971 after simply seven years because of monetary points.
He resurrected the identify in 2000 when he based Meyers Manx Inc and restarted manufacturing of his Beetle-based creations, including the longer-wheelbase Manxter 2+2 and Dualsport, and the new-look (effectively, newer) Manx Kick-out, constructing the corporate’s profile over the subsequent twenty years and establishing a group of loyal clients and followers.
Potiker says Trousdale founder – and now Meyers chairman – Phillip Sarofim “grew up driving Manx buggies and always had an affinity for them”.
When Potiker had his first go, he was rapidly offered on the Manx’s broad attraction, which transcends social class and has turn out to be virtually as recognisable and beloved because the Beetle on which it’s based mostly.
He says: “When I drove the car around downtown San Diego, I was getting thumbs up from everybody on the street, and then I took it to an upscale area and it was the same thumbs up. It’s a classless car.”
LEXUS AND VASSER SULLIVAN EAGER FOR SEBRING AFTER TOUGH ROLEX 24 AT DAYTONA
Both RC F GT3s Lead Field throughout 24-hour race
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 29, 2024) – Lexus and Vasser Sullivan confirmed great battle and willpower throughout the 62nd Rolex 24 at Daytona after claiming entrance row positions for the 24-hour endurance occasion, nonetheless the outcomes didn’t showcase the workforce’s total efficiency. Challenges on the race monitor resulted in an 11th-place end for the No. 14 RC F GT3 within the GTD PRO class and a 15th-place end for the No. 12 RC F GT3 within the GTD class.
Starting from pole place, the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 was in competition for the GTD class win all through the 24 hours. Aaron Telitz began the race sharing the automobile with Parker Thompson over the primary few stints, the place the No. 12 RC F GT3 was the dominant automobile early on. After pacing the sphere for many of the first three hours, they handed the wheel to Ritomo Miyata who additionally led the race in his Rolex 24 debut, operating within the top-two the vast majority of his first run late Saturday afternoon.
Frankie Montecalvo jumped within the No. 12 for a double stint as dusk came to visit Daytona International Speedway and ran a constant tempo. Once a yellow flag waved with a little bit greater than 17 hours remaining, Telitz jumped again within the Vasser Sullivan Lexus, going from fourth to first on the following restart. He and Thompson managed to battle for the lead all through the night time hours and stayed inside the prime 5 Sunday morning. On the ultimate pit cease, nonetheless, with Thompson preventing for a podium place, the automobile caught fireplace within the pit lane, which led to a retirement and a fifteenth place end. In complete, the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 led 146 laps.
The No. 14 RC F GT3 began their GTD PRO title protection by overcoming early adversity within the Rolex 24 to complete in eleventh place with drivers Jack Hawksworth, Ben Barnicoat, Kyle Kirkwood and Mike Conway. Starting second, Barnicoat took the early lead for the primary 40 minutes of the race, main 14 laps. At the primary pit cease, Conway hopped within the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus for his first stint, however was hit by a spinning competitor on the following restart which put the workforce within the storage for repairs. Through unbelievable teamwork and effectivity, the crew completed all changes in simply over an hour to get the automobile again out within the race.
By clicking off laps and staying out of hassle, the No. 14 workforce was capable of get again into the highest ten by midnight as different rivals confronted their very own points. Unfortunately, the automobile needed to retire in hour 16 of the 24-hour endurance occasion on account of overheating points and finally got here house eleventh.
The Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3s return to motion at Sebring International Raceway for the 12 Hours of Sebring on Saturday, March 16. Live flag-to-flag protection will probably be on Peacock for authenticated subscribers, together with tv protection on the USA Network from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET. To sustain with all of the racing motion, observe Lexus Racing on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok by utilizing #LexusEfficiency.
Vasser Sullivan Driver Quotes
PARKER THOMPSON, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
How would you describe your efficiency and the workforce’s efficiency on the Rolex 24?
“Up until the last hour, the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team did absolutely everything right. From the drivers to the pit crew, the engineers, we were the definition of perfection. To have it go away like that has me lost for words honestly. I can’t thank my teammates enough. Particularly Aaron Telitz who did a triple stint there at the end. We wouldn’t have been in that position without his effort. The pit box did an amazing job to keep us in the top race all day long. Unfortunately, we have to wait another 12 months to get another crack at it.”
FRANKIE MONTECALVO, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
How was your race with the Lexus RC F GT3 earlier than what transpired within the final hour?
“It was a tough end to the day today. I feel like we were in the top two spots the entire time. It’s a hard blow to end this way. The No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team did a phenomenal job. Qualifying on pole and then controlling the race for a while. We didn’t have contact until something inadvertent later in the race, which provided some damage. To end like this is a tough one. We had a great run going and had some great points going for us. Going out of the race early like this is tough for us and the team. But I know the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team will get this thing back together and we’ll be ready for Sebring.”
AARON TELITZ, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
Can you’re taking us via the race for your self and all the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus workforce?
“I feel so bad for the Vasser Sullivan Lexus crew. I felt like we had a shot at the podium today. The whole team was operating at such a high level. To see it go away like that hurts a lot. My co-drivers did an amazing job throughout the race. Parker (Thompson), Frankie (Montecalvo) and Ritomo (Miyata) absolutely nailed their stints. Everyone contributed and the pit stops were excellent. Just a big bummer at the end, but I know this team will regroup and we’ll be hungry for Sebring.”
RITOMO MIYATA, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
Can you describe your first expertise on the Rolex 24 and with the Vasser Sullivan Lexus workforce?
“I tried to take everything step-by-step since it was the first time for me at the Rolex 24 and with the Vasser Sullivan Lexus team. The main focus for my stints was to conserve the car overall, tires, fuel, brakes, everything else. Once we were able to do that, our focus shifted to the finish and the target was going for the win. Unfortunately, it didn’t go the way we had hoped.”
BEN BARNICOAT, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3
Can you describe the eventful Rolex 24 that the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus workforce had?
“Yeah, obviously, on a day like today that we had as a group, team, and family, you can only look to the positives that came from this race. We had a great qualifying result last week and got to start the Rolex 24 from the front row for the first time and take the lead in the first corner, which was special. First stint felt like we had great pace in our Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3. We were in good control and comfortable, but what happened when Mike (Conway) was in the car was unavoidable. Wrong place, wrong time. That happens sometimes in motorsports. Just bummed for everyone that put so much effort into this race. We kept going after that incident to get as many points as we could. Fantastic job by the Vasser Sullivan crew to get the car ready to go. We were still able to get some points from the day and we did everything we could to maximize what we could. No one in this group deserves what happened to us and the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan RC F GT3 team today, but we are champions and we have a champion mindset. We have championship drive and we’re not going to let this race deter us from going on to achieve great things this year. We’re going to get our heads down and get ready for Sebring.”
MIKE CONWAY, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3
What occurred to take the No. 14 out of the race early?
“Really gutted we had the incident there in the first hour of the race. Not much I could do to avoid the spinning car in front of me. Maybe I could’ve seen it coming, but once it happened, I had nowhere to go. I’m really disappointed as I thought we had a good shot at the podium, so unfortunate we couldn’t achieve that. Also bummed for the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team as they had a great shot at a podium as well. Tough day for the entire Vasser Sullivan team, but they’re a strong team and they’ll come back swinging. Big thank you to Vasser Sullivan and Lexus for the opportunity to drive the car again. And thanks to Jack (Hawksworth), Ben (Barnicoat) and Kyle (Kirkwood) for helping me. Hopefully we get to do it again.”
Lexus and Vasser Sullivan to Pace GTD Field With First Rolex 24 Pole
GTD PRO Title Defense additionally Begins for the No. 14 RC F GT3
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2024) – Lexus Racing and Vasser Sullivan will lead the GTD class to inexperienced within the 62nd Rolex 24 at Daytona after claiming their first pole place on the famed endurance race by Parker Thompson and the No. 12 RC F GT3. Lexus manufacturing unit driver, Jack Hawksworth, simply missed out on capturing pole place as nicely in GTD PRO, qualifying second within the class within the No. 14 RC F GT3, which begins its championship protection this weekend. Hawksworth and Thompson certified second and third, respectively, out of 37 whole GT entries.
The 25-year-old Thompson, now operating full time with Lexus and Vasser Sullivan, captured his first profession sequence pole with time of 1:44.494 on the three.56-mile Daytona street course. Thompson’s time claimed the GTD pole by a mere 4 one-hundredths of a second. Thompson made his sequence debut final season serving because the endurance driver for the workforce, and now takes on the total IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship schedule in 2024.
Joining the younger Canadian within the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan RC F GT3, can be Vasser Sullivan veterans Frankie Montecalvo and Aaron Telitz, together with first-timer and Toyota Gazoo Racing driver, Ritomo Miyata. Montecalvo enters his sixth full-time season driving the No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3 within the GTD class. Last season, he and Telitz completed third within the GTD class standings and captured victory at Watkins Glen. Telitz returns for his fifth season with Lexus and Vasser Sullivan, now as an endurance driver. Miyata is the ultimate addition to the No. 12 entry for the celebrated endurance race, making his debut within the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship. The 24-year-old is the reigning Super Formula and Super GT500 Champion and also will be contesting the Formula 2 championship and the European Le Mans Series in 2024, together with serving because the reserve driver for the Toyota Gazoo Racing WEC Hypercar workforce.
Though he missed out on pole place by eight one-hundredths of a second, Hawksworth positioned the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan RC F GT3 in prime place when the inexperienced flies for the Rolex 24. The Bradford, England native and fellow Lexus manufacturing unit driver, Ben Barnicoat, start their GTD PRO class championship protection after capturing the primary full-season GT title for Lexus and Vasser Sullivan final season. En path to final 12 months’s championship, Hawksworth and Barnicoat scored victories at Long Beach and Watkins Glen to accomplice with 4 pole positions and 9 podium finishes in 11 races. Now of their third season collectively, they’re centered on successful the largest race in American sportscar racing after ending third final January.
Hawksworth and Barnicoat can be joined by Toyota Gazoo Racing driver Mike Conway, together with INDYCAR racer and Florida native, Kyle Kirkwood for this 12 months’s race. Both drivers additionally competed for Vasser Sullivan within the Rolex 24 final season within the No. 14 and No. 12 RC F GT3 entries. Conway brings in depth endurance race expertise with him making his seventh begin within the Rolex 24, together with a third-place end with Hawksworth and Barnicoat final 12 months. For Kirkwood, this can be his fourth begin within the endurance occasion with a greatest end of fourth in 2022 with Hawksworth and Barnicoat.
Twenty twenty-four marks the eighth season Lexus Racing is fielding RC F GT3s in IMSA competitors and the sixth season Lexus and Vasser Sullivan will race collectively within the GT classes. Over their partnership, Lexus Racing and Vasser Sullivan have amassed 13 wins, 39 podium finishes, 18 pole positions, the 2023 IMSA GTD PRO Driver, Team, and Manufacturer Championship, and the 2020 IMSA Sprint Cup titles.
The Rolex 24 at Daytona can be broadcast dwell on NBC beginning at 1:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 27 with extra tv protection all through the race on USA Network. Live flag-to-flag protection may even be streaming on Peacock for authenticated subscribers. To sustain with all of the racing motion, comply with Lexus Racing on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok by utilizing #LexusEfficiency.
Vasser Sullivan Driver Quotes
JACK HAWKSWORTH, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3
What’s your outlook for the race beginning on the entrance row?
“We feel like we’ve prepared well for the race with our Lexus RC F GT3. Obviously coming off the championship last year, we’ve kept the same people and crew on our Vasser Sullivan team to go along with good consistency in our driver lineup. Mike (Conway) did the Rolex with us last year and Kyle (Kirkwood) did a lot of endurance races, along with Ben (Barnicoat) and I coming back together again. We’ve continued to build since last year. We feel positive about everything, but the thing with this race is that you never really know until the last two or three hours. We’ll have to wait and see, but will give it our best from a good starting spot.”
BEN BARNICOAT, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3
How does the robust qualifying effort construct confidence for the workforce heading into the Rolex 24?
“As a group for Lexus and Vasser Sullivan, it’s a great way to start off the year with a pole in GTD and a second starting spot in GTD PRO. From our side on the No. 14 RC F GT3, to start on the front row for a prestigious race as this is amazing. Jack (Hawksworth) has always done a super job in qualifying. On the 12 car side, so happy and excited for them with Parker (Thompson) getting the pole in his first GTD attempt. That’s very special and shows that even though we were champions last year, we’re not resting, and we’ve continued to work, especially the guys on the Vasser Sullivan team and Lexus. We’ve all worked extremely hard in the offseason to allow us to arrive here and start the year leading the field. Very excited to get to the race.”
KYLE KIRKWOOD, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3
How has all the pieces gone thus far main as much as the race this weekend?
“So far, so good for our No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3 Vasser Sullivan team. Really happy with the performance of the car and team. Everything has been very smooth so far which is exactly what you want going into a 24-hour race. The fact that we have some pace gives us confidence and everyone on the team is gelling well. Things have happened at this race in the first lap over the years, so being at the front and staying up there to keep our nose clean will help us avoid those situations happening behind us. Super proud of Parker (Thompson) getting pole in the GTD class, and Jack qualifying P2 is great. Really excited for this weekend.”
MIKE CONWAY, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3
How is it being again with Lexus and Vasser Sullivan within the Rolex 24?
“Great to be back with Vasser Sullivan in the Lexus RC F GT3, driving a championship-winning car. I knew the guys were doing a great job last year when I was with them, so to see them win the championship at the end was great. Getting back in the car and used to the nuances of going fast around here. Good qualifying overall, starting in the front of the field. Looking forward to race day.”
PARKER THOMPSON, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
How does it really feel to say pole on the Rolex 24 and what’s your outlook for the race?
“One for one in GTD qualifying, getting pole at Daytona! Doesn’t get much better than that. It’s incredible to think I was spotting here two years ago and now I’m taking my first pole in a Lexus RC F GT3. I can’t thank the Vasser Sullivan team and Lexus Racing enough for the opportunity. Getting the first Rolex 24 pole for the team and Lexus is neat. I still have a lot to learn going into the race this weekend, but we’re starting from the best spot with the best driver lineup. There’s no reason we can’t compete for a Rolex watch on Sunday. Excited to see what we can make happen.”
FRANKIE MONTECALVO, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
What does a pole on the Rolex 24 imply for all the workforce heading into the race?
“The team did a phenomenal job in a hectic qualifying, getting out in a hole after the red flag since it was basically a two-lap shootout. Both cars did a phenomenal job. Parker did an awesome job in his first qualifying effort in the No. 12 RC F GT3, putting us on pole for the Rolex 24, which is amazing. It’d be good to stay up at the front, away from all the hectic stuff in the back. Phenomenal start to the racing season that brings along some good points with the pole, so that will help us down the line considering to how many points it took for us to get third in the championship. We can take everything we can get early on. The Vasser Sullivan team has been firing on all cylinders this weekend. Our Lexus RC F GT3 keeps getting better and better, and the team keeps functioning as a complete family. I have complete confidence going into the race.”
AARON TELITZ, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
What are your ideas and emotions heading into the race this weekend?
“The Vasser Sullivan team is operating at such a high level just like we were all last season, carrying it over into 2024. The team has been working great. Ritomo (Miyata) has been awesome and is a great addition to the No. 12 RC F GT3 team. Parker (Thompson) sticking it on pole for the Rolex 24 has us on cloud 9. We’re really excited for this weekend.”
RITOMO MIYATA, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3
Can you discuss your expertise thus far on the Rolex 24 and what you’re anticipating this weekend?
“My first time racing in the U.S. has been great. The Vasser Sullivan team and my teammates have been kind to me so far. I’m trying to take everything step-by-step with the difference in the RC F GT3 compared to what I’ve raced before. It’s been very good overall. I’ve had a great time working with everyone at Vasser Sullivan and Lexus so far and the result from qualifying is great as well. Really proud of the team. It’s all been very enjoyable.”
About Lexus
The Lexus RC F GT3 enters its eighth season within the GTD class, and third 12 months within the GTD PRO class, competing within the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Over the final six seasons, Lexus and Vasser Sullivan have mixed to earn 13 wins, 39 podium finishes and 18 pole positions with the RC F GT3. Lexus gained its first full-season IMSA GTD PRO Manufacturers Championship on the power of two wins and podium positions in 9 of 11 races in 2023.
Lexus’ ardour for courageous design, imaginative expertise, and exhilarating efficiency allows the posh life-style model to create superb experiences for its clients. Lexus started its journey in 1989 with two luxurious sedans and a dedication to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to satisfy the wants of worldwide luxurious clients in additional than 90 international locations. In the United States, Lexus autos are bought by 244 sellers providing a full lineup of luxurious autos. With eight fashions incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the posh hybrid chief. Lexus additionally gives 9 F SPORT fashions, one F efficiency mannequin and one F mannequin. Lexus is dedicated to being a visionary model that anticipates the long run for luxurious clients.
![]()
Add to Cart![]()
Print![]()
Convert to PDF
FIAT to Auction Three Special Fiat 500e Electric Cars throughout Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, Proceeds to Benefit Environmentally-focused Nonprofit
- On December 7 throughout Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, three distinctive Fiat 500e vehicles designed by Armani, Bvlgari and Kartell will discover new homeowners.
- Exclusive public sale to be led by famend charity auctioneer Simon de Pury with proceeds benefitting environmentally-focused nonprofit.
- Online catalogue and entry to absentee bidding forward of the public sale out there at de-PURY.com.
Fiat 500e will get a highlight function to assist the planet on December 7 throughout Art Basel Miami Beach 2023, when three bespoke autos designed in collaboration with iconic Italian manufacturers Armani, Bvlgari and Kartell will probably be auctioned at an undisclosed location. Proceeds will profit a nonprofit to be named following the public sale.
“It is rare for an automaker to combine efforts with the most iconic Italian brands of three different sectors, fashion design, furniture design and luxury, to create something truly unique that combines art with an earth-friendly message, making the cars available through auction is even more unusual,” stated Olivier Francois, CEO of FIAT and Global Chief Marketing Officer of Stellantis. “These three special builds set the stage for FIAT’s sustainable mission and create momentum as we approach the arrival of the all-electric Fiat 500e in North America.”
This cadence of occasions contributes to the momentum created as FIAT prepares to launch the all-electric Fiat 500e. The new Fiat 500e is Stellantis’ first EV providing in North America. Unlike any out there electrical metropolis automobile, the Fiat 500e democratises not solely electrical mobility, but additionally easy methods to purchase them, all whereas taking part in a major function within the Stellantis Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan that targets 50% passenger automobile and light-duty truck BEV gross sales combine within the United States and 100% passenger automobile BEV gross sales combine in Europe by 2030. Stellantis is on monitor to change into a carbon net-zero company by 2038, all scopes included, with single-digit proportion compensation of remaining emissions.
Simon de Pury will conduct the public sale. On November 28, an internet catalogue was revealed on his revolutionary de PURY platform. This offers an unique likelihood for these unable to attend the occasion to register for pre and absentee bidding, granting them entry to registration, on-line and telephonic bidding forward of the public sale.
“I am very excited to conduct the auction of the three unique Fiat 500e cars. They are stunning and beautiful works of art on wheels. It is wonderful that the proceeds of the auction will entirely go to environmental work,” stated Simon de Pury.
Turin, 29th November 2023
FIAT
Established in Turin in 1899, FIAT is among the oldest carmakers on this planet with greater than 120-year-long custom within the design of small and medium-sized metropolis vehicles, that are ambassadors of “Made in Italy” and expressions of easy and sustainable options designed for all. FIAT goals to deliver the brand new Dolce Vita worldwide in a colourful and joyful means. FIAT is a worldwide model and with about 1.2 million items offered globally in 2022, it’s the primary inside Stellantis by way of quantity. It is chief in 3 Countries and three totally different Regions: Brazil, Italy, and Turkey, the place the Strada, the Panda and the Tipo are respectively essentially the most offered vehicles. FIAT’s motto, “It’s only sustainable when it’s sustainable for all”, is fortunately mirrored within the FIAT line-up that can proceed to develop within the years to come back.
Simon de Pury
Auctioneer, artwork vendor, curator, photographer and dj, Simon de Pury is among the main figures within the artwork world. Renowned for his legendary efficiency on the public sale podium, which have earned him the moniker “the Mick Jagger of auctions”, de Pury has auctioned and secured a number of the most legendary artwork collections. Moreover, as an energetic charity auctioneer, it’s estimated that de Pury has raised a number of billion {dollars} for various charities and cultural establishments over the course of his profession. As a mentor and curator, de Pury has been instrumental in championing the careers of many up to date artists, photographers and designers, and has been the topic of and featured in a number of documentaries and movies, together with BBC documentary “The Man with the Golden Gavel” and extra lately, Darren Star’s comedy-drama sequence, “Emily in Paris.” In 2021, de Pury launched de PURY Presents, a brand new exhibition sequence collaborating with worldwide artists of their studios. In 2022, he launched the revolutionary on-line platform de PURY platform. Simon de Pury is the previous chairman and chief auctioneer of Phillips de Pury & Company, former Europe chairman and chief auctioneer of Sotheby’s, and former curator of the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection.
ENDS
Contact:
VINCE CLISHAM
HEAD OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
vincent.clisham@stellantis.com
TEL +44(0)7831 315915
LUCINDA INGGS
PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER
lucinda.inggs@stellantis.com
MICHAEL ARNOLD
PRESS FLEET MANAGER
pressfleet@stellantis.com
JEREMY TOWNSEND
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
jeremy.townsend@stellantis.com
BMW and Alex Israel will unveil REMEMBR at Art Basel in Miami Beach 2023
BMW and Alex Israel are set to showcase REMEMBR, a captivating fusion of art and technology, at Art Basel Miami Beach 2023. The AI-powered, participatory video installation takes visitors on a journey through time and memory.
REMEMBR, an AI-powered, participatory and interactive video installation, will be unveiled by BMW and Alex Israel at Art Basel Miami Beach 2023. The installation guides visitors on a journey through time and memory in a captivating fusion of art and technology. The new 100% electric BMW i5 inspired Israel for this collaboration. REMEMBR will be exhibited from December 8 to 10, 2023, at Art Basel Miami Beach, the world’s premier art show for Modern and contemporary art. BMW will provide the VIP car service as a global partner of the Art Basel shows.
Alex Israel, a renowned contemporary artist based in Los Angeles, known for his innovative work exploring the intersection of popular culture, art, and technology. His collaboration with BMW on the REMEMBR video installation, using the BMW i5 as a pivotal inspiration, showcases his commitment to exploring the boundaries of art in the digital age.
Israel worked closely with BMW to develop AI technology that will collect, filter, compose and choreograph the visitor’s phone’s camera content. Guests at Art Basel Miami Beach are invited to discover the hyper-memories of Alex Israel and share their own in an immersive installation across seven custom-designed screens.
For over 50 years, BMW has initiated cultural collaborations and forged connections with world-renowned artists. REMEMBR reflects BMW’s commitment to innovation, cutting-edge technology, and design, which are key features of the new BMW i5. BMW Lounge at Art Basel Miami Beach Collectors Lounge will feature REMEMBR and the fully electric BMW i5 from December 8 – 10, 2023.
BMW i5 M60 xDrive: Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 20.6 – 18.2 kWh/100 km. Electric range in WLTP cycle: 455 – 516 km
Innovation and Tradition: Rolex’s Exclusive Look at Monterey Car Week 2023
No other car show in the world can compare to Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance and the entire Monterey Motorsports week with events that range from the Tour d’ Elegance to The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion races, and the Concourse. It is like having multiple phenomenal auto museums all put together in different locations for various events. From vintage cars to classic cars, supercars and concept cars, Pebble Beach has it all during this week. And Rolex, whose precision mechanical watches rival the finest cars, is right there in the excitement of it all.
This past week, I was able to attend several days of the events week with Rolex and experience the excitement firsthand, which I am happy to share here.
The Quail –perhaps the most luxurious and experiential garden party ever – showcases some of the finest cars in the world, from past to present and even the future. This year the event, held at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club, witnessed the 20th anniversary of this magnificent motorsports event, and more than 400 cars and motorcycles came together on the lawn, with many brands unveiling their newest automobiles and prototypes.
Among the new releases were several from Lotus. In fact, Rolex testimonee (ambassador) and F1 World Champion Jenson Button, released the completely bespoke Lotus Evija hypercar at The Quail. The car, which boasts a unique Arctic White, Verve Yellow, and Carbon Black color scheme that recalls the colors of the 2009 Champion-winning Brawn GP car he drove. The car has a deployable door mirror housing with the number 22 on it (Jenson’s race number during that incredible 2009 winning season) and even has a laser-etched aluminum strip that runs through the seat center and showcases the date and place of each of Jenson’s 15 F1 wins. The car has a confirmed output of 1500kW/2039 PS.
“I absolutely love The Quail. Every year the event gets bigger and better, and it’s so cool to see the new prototypes and models being launched. Having the old and the new sitting side by side, as well as the ‘restomod’ cars that look vintage but have modern technologies, is very special,” said Button, noting that Rolex, with its storied past, innovative technology, and precision mechanics, fits right in.
Visitors to the event, which costs about $1,500 a ticket, get to vote for their favorite car. The winning car is named the Rolex Best of Show. This year, the one-of-a-kind 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica ‘Super Fast,’ owned by Anne Brockinton Lee, was crowned the winner and welcomed into the 2023 Rolex Circle of Champions. The owner was gifted a Rolex green-dial Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 in Oystersteel with a white gold fluted bezel and a Jubilee bracelet that sells for $8,950. Rolex has partnered with The Quail since 2005 as the Official Timepiece.
On Saturday, we attended the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, which runs for four days throughout the week. Held at the renowned WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, the racing event witnesses 400 vehicles showcasing nearly a century of motorsport heritage. This year, the event celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Corvette and the 100 years of the 24 Hours of LeMans by displaying the first ‘vettes to compete at Circuit de le Sarthe in 1960.
There was also a special F1 race, and a host of other impressive competitions. They were Gentlemen’s races since many of these cars are worth millions in their restored conditions. We even had to opportunity to go where most visitors cannot: up to the photographer’s tower at the top of the famed corkscrew turn – considered one of the most challenging turns in the world thanks to the 59-foot drop in elevation and the blind crest and apex. The Rolex signage is omnipresent during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, but it is particularly eye-catching at the corkscrew turn.
The festivities concluded on Sunday 20 August with the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance®. Held on the 18th fairway of the legendary Pebble Beach golf course, more than 210 spectacular cars from 1906 to 1998 were on display as they competed for special classes and the ultimate win: Best of Show. Among the highlight automobiles were at least 40 entries from more than 20 countries around the world. The cars are judged on their restoration and authenticity – translating to an exacting replica of the original automobiles, both inside and out.
This year, the 72nd, celebrated innovative designs from classic and modern eras, with classes such as Figoni, Mercedes-Benz, Pegaso and others, including the 60th anniversary of McLaren, the 60th anniversary of Lamborghini, the 75th anniversary of Porsche, the Vanderbilt Cup era cars, post-war luxury and American Dream Cars of the 1950s. On the other side of the course, the concept lawn showcased the future of automobiles.
Rolex clocks and signage were naturally present everywhere and when the Best of Show car was named – this year the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster – Rolex presented the owner, Jim Patterson, with a specially engraved Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 in Oystersteel with a yellow gold fluted bezel and a jubilee bracelet ($12,700 retail). Patterson had purchased the car at an auction in 2022 for $9.9 million with the intent to restore it to its original glory. The restoration was conducted by RM Auto Restoration and the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center.
Rolex Testimonee and Record nine-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Tom Kristensen, was an Honorary Judge at the Concours and commented on the winners. “For a car to take home the honors at Pebble Beach it must be the ultimate. The precision engineering, the authenticity of every mechanical part and the style of its presentation are everything – it takes a huge amount of preparation and passion to succeed. To then receive a Rolex watch rewarding this dedication is something that stays with you forever. It’s a timeless reminder.”
Rolex’s history of motorsports spans approximately 100 years, and the brand continues to commit to the sport whether it is classic cars, F1 racing, or endurance racing.