Tag Archives: British

Motorsport

First Production 1961 Jaguar E-Type Right-Hand Drive Coupe Could Bring $1M At Auction

On September 1, the first-ever production right-hand drive Jaguar E-Type will be put up for auction at Hampton Court Palace in London. Organized by Gooding & Company, this historic car is expected to fetch between $1.26 million and $1.76 million. The car is a Fixed Head Coupe finished in opalescent dark blue with a red leather interior, and it retains its original engine and license plate combination.

This E-Type is powered by a 3.8-liter inline-six engine with three carburetors, producing 265 horsepower. It has a four-speed manual gearbox and Dunlop disk brakes. It does not feature electronic nannies like ABS, making it stop more like a modern car. The car’s top speed is 150 mph, and it can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 7 seconds.

First Production 1961 Jaguar E-Type Right-Hand Drive Coupe
First Production 1961 Jaguar E-Type Right-Hand Drive Coupe
First Production 1961 Jaguar E-Type Right-Hand Drive Coupe

The car was built without a classic ladder frame chassis and features rack-and-pinion steering and independent suspension all around. It has several sought-after features, including a flat floor, welded hood louvers, and external hood latches.

The current owner purchased the car in 1998 and embarked on a multi-year restoration project. They managed to restore the car to its original specification and appearance, even re-registering it with its original license plate number “1 VHP” with the help of official Jaguar factory records.

According to the seller, this Jaguar E-Type is the only surviving six-cylinder production model that can be considered the first of its kind, as the first left-hand drive coupe and roadster no longer exist.

Motorsport

Bentley “Scent Of Noir” Fragrance Gives Guys That New Car Smell

Bentley announced it made a new fragrance for men which is said to be inspired by the British luxury car brand’s Blackline models which come with blacked-out details instead of the usual chrome trim.

Officially called Bentley For Men Black Edition, the new masculine perfume comes in a sharp monochrome bottle that resembles a tailored tuxedo, designed to reflect the lines and curves of a Bentley, the company says.

With heavy black glass, the bottle also features discrete silver-white stripes, polished silver metal shoulders embossed with the car maker’s logo, and a silver cap ringed with Bentley’s signature knurling that’s present in the interior of all its cars.

Bentley For Men Black Edition Fragrance
Bentley For Men Black Edition Fragrance

Designed by master perfumer Dorothée Piot, Bentley’s black-themed fragrance is described by the Crewe-based luxury vehicle makers as follows:

In the opening, a radiant accord of powdery violet and tangy tangerine feels as fresh as a clean white shirt. Cool pink pepper and nutmeg add the silvery flash of a pair of sleek, brushed steel cufflinks. Brightened by a hint of jasmine – the gleam of a silk tie – the heart of the fragrance unfolds like a dark, subtly textured fabric of smooth patchouli and earthy papyrus. Darker still, the drydown weaves cool incense, tobacco-scented tonka bean, and leather-tinged Atlas cedarwood on a base of musk and crisp, dry wood.

Like the Blackline series, this perfume is all about cutting-edge gravitas, lending the wearer a scent that is both purposeful and enigmatic.

Besides the new Black Edition fragrance, the maker of the Continental GT also sells the Momentum Unbreakable Eau de Parfum and the Magnetic Amber fragrance.

Bentley says that 40 percent of the cars it makes are outfitted with the Blackline pack which replaces all chrome and satin finishes – except the winged badge and Flying-B mascot’s feathers – with Beluga black, including the wheels, headlight surrounds, and matrix grille.

The latest model in the company’s lineup to be available with the chrome delete option is the new Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Mulliner, which debuted last week as the brand’s flagship, featuring a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering 542 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, exclusive 22-inch wheels, and airline seats as standard.

Featured

ARC Launches Founder’s Signature Edition Motorcycles For North America

British motorcycle manufacturer Arc is celebrating its entry into the North American market with the launch of the ARC Vector Founder’s Signature Edition. These two exclusive motorcycles, limited to the North American clientele, are the epitome of luxury, craftsmanship, and innovative design, reflecting Arc’s commitment to redefining the motorcycle industry. Designed by Arc’s founder and CEO Mark Truman, the Founder’s Signature Edition showcases the highest levels of craftsmanship. Forged carbon fiber monocoque, body panels, and wheels provide a level of complexity rarely seen even in supercars.

Complimented by Rose Gold paint details, etched leather grips, and a seat with black and copper stitching, these bikes are a visual treat for two-wheel collectors. Mark Truman’s personal signature adds an extra touch of exclusivity. Performance is not compromised, as these special collector’s edition bikes utilize the CCS1 Combo charging socket, offering the DC fast charging standard for North America. Öhlins black suspension and unique design elements further accentuate the bikes. The Arc Vector is not just a motorcycle; it represents a revolutionary attitude toward engineering and sustainability. For those looking to own a piece of history, these once-in-an-era motorcycles are available for purchase now. Interested customers can reach out to the Arc Sales Team, securing a spot among the exclusive owners of these extraordinary machines.

Arc Vector Signature Edition Motorcycle_August 2023 (c) Arc V Ltd_Image 2
Motorsport

Bentley Bentayga EWB Mulliner: A New Flagship Model

Bentley has introduced the Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Mulliner as its new flagship model. This luxury SUV offers more cabin space compared to its competitors and comes with bespoke enhancements, according to the British automaker.

The Bentayga EWB Mulliner is based on the brand’s popular Bentayga SUV. It undergoes the craftsmanship of Bentley’s in-house coachbuilder, Mulliner, resulting in a vehicle that exudes artistic elegance.

Under the hood, this variant is powered by the same 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine found in the regular Bentayga SUV. It generates an impressive 542 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. The Bentayga EWB Mulliner is available in either a 4+1 or 4-seat configuration.

One of the standout features of this flagship model is its standard Airline Seat specification. Bentley describes it as the most advanced automotive seating system in the world, featuring 12 electric motors and 22-way adjustment. However, this seating option is also available as an upgrade for the non-Mulliner Bentayga EWB.

What sets the coach-built Bentayga EWB Mulliner apart is its luxurious interior. It boasts Mulliner Harmony Diamond Quilt leather upholstery on the seats and door panels. The vehicle also includes Mulliner deep-pile overmats made from 100 percent wool, Grand Black wood veneer trim, three-dimensional diamond milled finish on the center console, and Mulliner name embroidery on each seat.


Featured

O’Gara Coach Set To Display The Porsche 930 TAG Turbo At The Quail

# O’Gara Coach Set To Display The Porsche 930 TAG Turbo At The Quail

Lanzante Limited, a well-respected British automotive company, is known for its specialization in servicing, restoring, and enhancing classic and rare cars such as the iconic McLaren F1. In collaboration with O’Gara Coach and F1 driver-turned-artist Stefan Johansson, Lanzante has diversified its portfolio by adding the Porsche 930 TAG Turbo. This bespoke build, named “SJ87,” was hand-painted by Johansson himself and is powered by the engine from his McLaren MP4/3 F1 car that raced in the 1987 Austrian Grand Prix. The car first made its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it impressed with a blistering sprint up the track.

O’Gara Coach is pleased to announce that the Porsche 930 TAG Turbo Build #8 will be proudly displayed at its pavilion during The Quail: A Motorsports Gather. Along with the SJ87 Porsche 930 road car, the display will also feature three other unique collaboration projects with Lanzante Limited and Parris Mullins. If you have the opportunity to attend The Quail during Monterey Car Week 2023, make sure to visit O’Gara Coach’s display to see these incredible automotive offerings. To view all O’Gara Coach inventory for sale, click the link provided.

[View All O’Gara Coach Inventory](https://www.dupontregistry.com/autos/results/filter:dealers=o-gara-coach-beverly-hills-mclaren-rolls-royce)

![Porsche TAG Turbo](https://cdn.motor1.com/images/mgl/AkmEr6/s5/lanzante-tag-turbo-sj87-19.webp)
(Click the image to view more photos)

News

British Motorcyclists Federation Withdraws from Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations

In an announcement made on August 4, 2023, the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) revealed its decision to leave the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Association (FEMA).

The BMF’s choice to exit FEMA was prompted by the perceived resource demands imposed by the European Union-based association. The financial burden of FEMA’s membership dues, combined with its diminishing relevance to UK riders, led the BMF to redirect its resources toward more effective lobbying efforts.

One issue that fuelled the BMF’s deliberations was the regulatory and exemption considerations for vintage motorcycles in the EU, following the UK’s departure from the bloc. A specific incident involving a Triumph motorcycle being impounded in 2022 drew attention from both the BMF and FEMA. The question of FEMA’s value in light of the UK’s non-membership in the EU arose as a result.

BMF Chairman Jim Freeman explained, “It has become increasingly clear that UK riders will have to fight legislation that affects them here, in the UK. We can no longer depend on FEMA to do that for us, as an EU based organisation it is of declining relevance and utility to UK riders. Looking to the future this will increasingly be the case.”

With FEMA demanding an onerous annual fee of £12,000, the BMF believed those funds could be better employed in lobbying activities within the UK. The BMF council concluded that the organization’s efforts and budget would be more effectively focused on the UK, where members expected maximum dedication.

Freeman elaborated, “The resources that FEMA demands are already burdensome, £12,000 per annum. We need to use that money to support our lobbying work here, in the UK. This is because, in future, we will have to pay more to be effective here, where our members expect our maximum effort. £12,000 is a third of our lobbying funding, out of our turnover of £200,000.”

Furthermore, the BMF anticipated that FEMA’s resource demands would escalate over time, with the current £12,000 annual fee being deemed costly and likely to increase in the future.

Although the BMF council has voted to withdraw, the organization will remain a part of FEMA until 2024. The British members of FEMA will continue to carry out their roles and responsibilities in the organization until the 2024 FEMA Annual General Meeting (AGM).

VauxhallUk

VAUXHALL EXPERIMENTAL GIVES CLEAR VISION OF FUTURE OF THE BRAND

  • Progressive British: Vauxhall Experimental embodies three brand pillars
  • Bold and Pure: Next chapter of Vauxhall design philosophy with 4D Vauxhall Vizor
  • Painting with light: Electrochromic fabrics immerse occupants in atmospheric light

Vauxhall has unveiled its stunning new concept car, the Vauxhall Experimental, which provides a glimpse into the future of the brand. With a modern exterior design, this concept car showcases where Vauxhall is headed in the coming years.

Notable features of the Vauxhall Experimental include cutting-edge aero-efficiency technologies, a spacious and illuminated interior with lightweight seats, and an advanced head-up display. The battery-electric crossover will make its world premiere at the IAA Mobility event in Munich in September 2023, where it will introduce Vauxhall’s vision for sustainable individual mobility to a new audience.

According to Vauxhall Managing Director James Taylor, “The Vauxhall Experimental provides a glimpse of upcoming models and technologies, the future design, and a new era for the brand. This concept car represents Vauxhall’s pioneering spirit.” Mark Adams, Vice President Design, adds, “Our new Vauxhall Experimental presents an extreme interpretation of our Bold and Pure design philosophy. It embodies our vision for the future, and many elements of its design will be visible in future production vehicles. The exterior design combines optimized aerodynamics with a stunning silhouette, while the interior offers an immersive and emotional user experience.”

The sleek silhouette of the Vauxhall Experimental stands out with its absence of chrome. Instead, the concept car features exterior lighting and bold contrasting graphics that add personality and sophistication to its already impressive proportions. The battery-electric crossover is based on a state-of-the-art Stellantis BEV platform and is equipped with electric all-wheel drive. The design showcases a bold and pure aesthetic with clean surfacing and sharp, muscular wheel-arch blisters that emphasize its confident stance. Traditional wing mirrors have been replaced with fully integrated 180-degree cameras on the C-pillars.

At the front, the illuminated Vauxhall Griffin sits proudly at the center of the signature Vauxhall Compass, which represents the guiding element of Vauxhall’s design philosophy. The elongated wing signature lighting on the horizontal axis and the illuminated center crease add further drama to the front of the vehicle. Similar lighting elements are repeated at the rear, with the distinctive compass signature braking light created using edge lighting technology and sophisticated glass transparency. The rear also features bold Vauxhall lettering instead of the Griffin logo. Surrounding the front compass is the next generation 4D Vauxhall Vizor, which includes advanced sight technologies such as sensors, lidar, radar, and camera systems.

The Vauxhall Experimental incorporates clever aero solutions and offers a spacious interior through its “space detox” approach. Aero-flaps at the front and rear, as well as a rear end diffuser, enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The tires, developed in cooperation with Goodyear, are made from recycled rubber and sit on 3-zone Ronal wheels with an active feature that increases aerodynamic efficiency. Inside the concept car, the steering wheel folds away seamlessly when not in use, thanks to the steer-by-wire system that eliminates mechanical steering components. Lightweight adaptive seats with 3D mesh-technology fabrics contribute to the liberation of space inside the vehicle.

The Vauxhall Experimental also offers the Pure Experience and Pure Pad, providing a pleasurable driving experience. The slim Tech Bridge replaces conventional screens and uses augmented projection technology supported by artificial intelligence and natural voice control. The floating, transparent Pure Pad allows drivers to configure controls according to their preferences, providing instant access to frequently used features.

In addition to embodying Vauxhall’s brand pillars of Detox, Progressive British, Green Technology, and Innovation, the Vauxhall Experimental takes a step further by expressing the brand’s emotional approach to sustainable mobility. Electrochromic fabrics create an atmospheric light within the vehicle, enhancing the well-being of occupants. These reactive fabrics also have functional attributes, such as displaying warnings when a vehicle enters the blind spot, providing additional safety for occupants and other road users.

The Vauxhall Experimental continues the tradition of concept cars, which started in 1966 with the XVR Concept. It showcases a clear vision for the brand’s future.

BMW

New MINI Family Advances into the Digital Era with Cutting-Edge Technology and MINI Operating System 9

The iconic British brand MINI is embracing the digital age with its new model family, featuring the MINI Interaction Unit at its core. The MINI Interaction Unit is a round OLED display that seamlessly integrates into the interior, offering a comfortable user experience for both the driver and front passenger.

Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI brand, states, “We are venturing into the digital world with the new MINI family, emphasizing the brand’s charismatic heritage. The round central display will be filled with round content for the first time, and I am confident that customers worldwide will be delighted with the digital power of the new models.”

Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development, adds, “The all-new MINI family showcases a unique technology package. It utilizes the latest tech stack from BMW to offer MINI-specific features like Experience Modes and the voice assistant. The result is a display of cutting-edge digital capabilities with utmost attention to detail.”

Key digital highlights of the new MINI family include:

  • The industry’s first circular OLED display, the MINI Interaction Unit, with a user-friendly MINI interface design.
  • MINI Operating System 9, an Android-based software stack developed in-house by BMW Group, offering intuitive touch control and a MINI-specific design.
  • Up to eight MINI Experience Modes that provide an immersive driving experience through the use of light, interface designs, drive settings, and sound.
  • All-electric MINI models feature unique sound design both in the interior and exterior, along with new driving sounds and sound signals with information and warning functions.
  • The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant, activated by the voice command “Hey MINI,” allows users to control functions, make travel-related requests, and recognizes the driver or front passenger speaking.
  • Cloud-based MINI Navigation system with fast and precise route calculation, real-time map streaming, and charging-optimized route planning for electric MINIs.
  • The MINI Connected Store provides access to a wide range of practical and entertaining apps, including gaming, music, and video streaming.
  • Compatible with Apple, Google, and Samsung devices, the MINI Digital Key Plus enables flexible vehicle access without needing to take out the smartphone.
  • High-speed connectivity and optional 5G capability.
  • Regular free software updates over-the-air for MINI vehicles, including quality improvements and new features.

The new MINI Operating System 9 offers optimized touch and voice control. Its user interface design combines functional and emotional elements, with new graphics for a modern look. The start menu allows easy access to personalized content, and a tool belt offers favorite functions for quick access. The central screen displays driving-relevant information, while climate control settings are integrated into the MINI Interaction Unit for easy adjustment.

MINI Experience Modes enhance the connection between drivers and their MINIs, offering specific user interface designs and augmented lighting effects. Personal Mode allows customers to use their own smartphone pictures as backgrounds for the MINI Interaction Unit, while the optional Head-up display adapts to the selected Experience Mode.

All-electric MINI models feature innovative soundscapes that provide an acoustic identity both inside and outside the vehicle. The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant is a full-capability voice assistant that can be controlled by voice commands and is visually represented with graphical elements and an avatar on the circular OLED display.

The cloud-based MINI Navigation system offers intuitive destination entry, fast route calculation based on real-time traffic data, and charging-optimized routes for electric MINIs. The system also includes the Augmented View function for accurate navigational guidance.

MINI Connected Store provides access to a variety of practical and entertainment apps, including in-car gaming with AirConsole, music streaming with Spotify, and more. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also supported.

The MINI Digital Key Plus allows ultra-wideband technology-enabled vehicle access through compatible smartphones, with a personalized welcome sequence and easy key sharing.

MINI vehicles receive regular free software upgrades over-the-air, ensuring quality enhancements and the addition of new features.

The new MINI family combines technology and innovation to deliver an enhanced digital experience while staying true to MINI’s iconic heritage.

Citreon

Three-Quarters of UK Drivers Believe British Roads Are Dangerous

  • A recent study conducted by Citroën reveals that 73% of UK drivers consider British roads to be dangerous† for those who use them.
  • Between 2017 and 2021, the police in England and Wales recorded 1,114 accidents resulting in injuries caused by defective road surfaces, which led to the serious injury of 355 individuals and the death of 16††.
  • 42% of surveyed drivers were not aware that they could file a claim with the relevant local authority to compensate for vehicle damage caused by potholes.
  • 46% of drivers avoid certain roads due to the risk of pothole damage.
  • A previous study by Citroën UK found that the amount spent on compensation in the last year could have filled an additional 340,000 potholes*.

Exclusive research by Citroën UK reveals that nearly 75% of UK drivers believe that the condition of the country’s roads poses a danger to motorists and other road users.

According to Citroën UK’s latest survey, 75% of respondents reported that their cars had sustained damage from potholes, requiring vehicle repairs. However, drivers lack knowledge on how to seek support after experiencing pothole damage, as 42% of those affected stated that they were unaware of the possibility of claiming compensation from the relevant local authority. Only 14% of those surveyed said they had previously claimed compensation from their local authority.

This recent research follows Citroën’s findings in May, which revealed that the total cost of compensation claims paid out last year due to pothole damage amounted to £22.7 million, equivalent to the average cost of filling 340,000 potholes.

Citroën UK compared figures from the Asphalt Industry Alliance over the past six years and discovered that £139.9 million had been spent on damage compensation since 2017. This amount could have filled an additional 2.3 million potholes**.

In the new study, Citroën asked drivers about their perception of the condition of UK roads over the past six years. Notably, 68% of respondents felt that the roads in the UK had worsened, while only 15% believed that the condition had improved since 2017. Almost half of all drivers (46%) stated that they avoid certain roads entirely due to the fear and risk of damage.

The East Midlands was identified as the region where drivers expressed the most concern about road conditions, with 56% of respondents stating that the roads in their area had deteriorated. In contrast, only 18% of drivers in London reported a decline in road conditions in their local area.

Greg Taylor, Managing Director of Citroën UK, commented, “The people of the UK are clearly concerned about the state of our roads. The Citroën Advanced Comfort Programme helps alleviate the discomfort of driving on damaged road surfaces and reduces the impact of hitting potholes for drivers. However, it is evident that more work needs to be done to improve road conditions nationwide and restore public confidence.”

Many Citroën models, such as the New C5 X, benefit from the Advanced Comfort® Programme, which includes enhanced suspension and supportive seating for a smoother ride. All versions of the New C5 X feature Citroën’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushion® technology, which incorporates hydraulic bump stops into the suspension system to better control compression and rebound on damaged surfaces.

The New C5 X also comes with Advanced Comfort® seats as standard, which feature broad cushions and seat backs. These seats combine high-density foam at the core and a 15mm thick layer of extra textured foam on the surface to provide comfort and relaxation for occupants traveling on the challenging road network in Britain.

Motorsport

Morgan Super 3 Malle Rally Special Costs £54,995, Comes With A Coat

Malle, a British company known for making outdoor clothing and organizing motorcycle adventures worldwide, has collaborated with the Morgan Motor Company to produce the Morgan Super 3 Malle Rally Special. This special model is priced at £54,995 ($70,497).

The Morgan Super 3 Malle Rally Special is a modified version of the original Super 3, featuring a choice of yellow, red, or black body colors. The design of the car is inspired by a topographical map of Malle’s favorite British mountain road. The wide nose cone, roll hoops, and exhaust give the car a unique appeal. Buyers can also personalize the roundel on each flank with a specific number. Noteworthy amenities of the car include heated seats, footwell lighting, USB charging outlets, and even a cupholder. Additionally, the exterior features step guards and panniers for added convenience.