Since then, every of Nio’s eight manufacturing fashions – together with the ET5, ET5 Touring, EL6, ET7 and EL7 bought in 5 European international locations – has benefited from its enter. Most particularly, this has been centered on chassis tuning, during which the UK-based engineering crew is taking an more and more distinguished function.
“We develop specific suspension tuning for each market region, taking into account the differing demands of customers and differing road conditions,” he says.
It wasn’t till 2021 and Nio’s entry into the Norwegian market with the ES8 that its first European-specification mannequin was launched.
Like these deliberate for the UK, that mannequin receives its personal chassis tuning for Europe, with steering, spring, damper, and bushing traits differing from these utilized to the ES8 bought in China. They are traits which have now been dropped at different Nio fashions at the moment bought in left-hand-drive European markets.
Teobaldi says: “Most Chinese clients place a premium on secondary trip, so shock absorption is essential. They are extra tolerant to giant physique motions.
“European customers, without generalising too much, are the opposite. They want good body control, so damping is very important. At the same time, they are more tolerant to ride harshness.”
Oxfordshire, says Teobaldi, is the right location for Nio to refine that bespoke dynamic character: “We draw on specialist engineers and world-class testing services.
It additionally gives nice scope for know-how scouting. There are developments right here that you simply don’t see wherever else.”
It is offered in a complete of eight colors, together with three dual-tone shades
The Taisor was lately launched in India because the sixth Maruti-Toyota shared product.
It is being provided in 5 broad variants: E, S, S+, G, and V.
Monotone colors on supply are orange, purple, white, gray, and silver.
Dual-tone choices are purple, white and silver, all with a black roof.
Gets the identical petrol, turbo-petrol and CNG powertrains because the Fronx.
Prices vary from Rs 7.74 lakh to Rs 13.04 lakh (introductory ex-showroom pan-India).
The Maruti Fronx-based Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor has gone on sale in India, and is being provided in 5 broad variants. Toyota has given it minor adjustments to the outside design to distinguish it from the Maruti crossover it’s primarily based on, and a brand new color too. Let’s try all of the eight color choices that the Toyota Taisor is offered in, beginning with the monotone shades:
Monotone Options
Lucent Orange
Sportin Red
Cafe White
Enticing Silver
Gaming Grey
Dual-tone Options
When in comparison with the Maruti Fronx, the Taisor misses out on blue, black, and brown exterior paint choices. However, it does get a brand new orange shade that’s not out there with the India-spec Fronx. That stated, each get an equal variety of dual-tone shades, which value a premium of Rs 16,000 within the case of the Taisor.
The Toyota crossover is being provided with the identical engine-gearbox choices because the Fronx that are as follows:
Specification
1.2-litre N/A Petrol
1-litre Turbo-petrol
1.2-litre Petrol+CNG
Power
90 PS
100 PS
77.5 PS
Torque
113 Nm
148 Nm
98.5 Nm
Transmission
5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT
5-speed MT, 6-speed AT
5-speed MT
Identical Set Of Features
Being a rebadged model of the Fronx, the Taisor comes with the identical set of kit which incorporates the 9-inch touchscreen unit, heads-up show, wi-fi cellphone charging, and cruise management. The Toyota providing additionally will get the identical security options together with as much as six airbags, a 360-degree digital camera, and car stability management (VSC).
Price Range And Competition
The Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor is priced between Rs 7.74 lakh and Rs 13.04 lakh (introductory ex-showroom pan-India). It squares off immediately with the Maruti Fronx whereas additionally being a crossover different to the likes of the Maruti Brezza, Kia Sonet, Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon, and Hyundai Venue.
For over eight a long time, Jeep has been synonymous with journey, carving its legend throughout various terrains and capturing the hearts of explorers worldwide. From the rugged battlefields of World War II to sun-drenched deserts and muddy trails. Now, because the automotive panorama electrifies, Jeep stands poised to embark on a brand new chapter, one which guarantees to protect its core values whereas harnessing the facility and potential of electrical mobility.
The Jeep story begins in 1941, amidst the crucible of World War II. Responding to the US Army’s pressing want for a light-weight, versatile reconnaissance car, Bantam, Willys-Overland, and Ford produced prototypes, with Willys’ design in the end rising victorious. The ensuing Willys MB, affectionately nicknamed the Jeep, shortly turned an indispensable workhorse for Allied forces, its nimble dealing with and go-anywhere prowess proving decisive on battlefields worldwide. Following the conflict, the civilian Jeep CJ-2A carried the torch, igniting a ardour for off-road exploration amongst fanatics.
Over the a long time, Jeep’s lineup expanded, encompassing iconic models like the Wrangler, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee, every solidifying the model’s status for ruggedness, reliability, and an adventurous spirit. Today, because the automotive business undergoes a paradigm shift in direction of electrification, Stellantis recognizes the need to adapt the brand whereas staying true to Jeep’s heritage. The new STLA Large platform represents a strategic response to this transition, providing a flexible basis for a brand new era of electrified Jeep autos.
The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S EV blends traditional design with cutting-edge tech, concentrating on tech-savvy drivers who crave energy and luxurious.
In order to provide the newest and correct info doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Jeep, Stellantis, and different dependable sources.
Built with adaptability in thoughts, the STLA Large platform transcends the restrictions of competitor EV-only architectures. Its distinctive design permits for the combination of not solely battery-electric powertrains, but additionally hybrid and even inner combustion engine choices. This versatility affords Jeep a strategic benefit throughout the essential transition to electrification. It empowers the model to cater to various buyer preferences and market realities, guaranteeing a easy and inclusive shift in direction of a extra sustainable future.
Conquers Range Anxiety For Jeep’s Adventurous Spirit
Jeep
Furthermore, the platform boasts spectacular battery capabilities. With choices starting from 85 to a considerable 118 kilowatt-hours (kWh), STLA Large autos have the potential to attain a exceptional vary of as much as 800 kilometers (500 miles) for sedans.
The prolonged vary instantly addresses a key concern surrounding EVs, significantly for Jeep’s adventurous buyer base who ceaselessly enterprise off the crushed path. With the STLA Large platform, exploring distant locations with out range anxiety turns into an actual risk, preserving the core spirit of Jeep exploration whereas embracing a brand new period of fresh mobility.
Jeep’s electrical SUV roars onto the scene with spectacular efficiency estimates, a modern design, and off-road chops.
Performance That Lives Up To The Jeep Name
Jeep
When it involves off-road prowess and thrilling efficiency, Jeep vehicles have built a reputation for being unstoppable. This legacy is ready to proceed with the brand new STLA Large platform, designed particularly for electrical autos with capabilities that match the Jeep identify.
Power That Thrills
Electric Muscle: The platform helps three-in-one electrical drive modules (EDMs) providing 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration probably as little as 2 seconds. This interprets to an exhilarating efficiency that stays true to Jeep’s adventurous spirit.
Capability Beyond The Pavement
Built For The Trails: Ground clearance starting from 5.5 to 11.3 inches, coupled with the potential for built-in limited-slip differentials and wheel-end disconnects, ensures future Jeep EVs conquer difficult terrain with confidence. The STLA Large platform prioritizes off-road capacity, staying true to Jeep’s go-anywhere DNA.
Adaptability for Diverse Needs
More Than Just One Size Fits All: The platform’s flexibility permits engineers to regulate key dimensions like wheelbase, floor clearance, and overhangs. This permits the creation of a variety of Jeep fashions, from the enduring Wrangler to the luxurious Grand Cherokee, every retaining its distinct character whereas leveraging the platform’s superior know-how and effectivity.
Stellantis New STLA Large Platform Key Metrics
Length Range
187.6-201.8 inches
Width Range
74.7-79.9 inches
Wheelbase Range
113.0-121.1 inches
Ground Clearance Range
5.5-11.3 inches
Maximum Tire Diameter
32.6 inches
(Specs sourced from Stellantis)
In essence, the STLA Large platform represents a brand new chapter for Jeep, one which electrifies its efficiency with out compromising its legendary capabilities. By staying true to its core values whereas embracing cutting-edge know-how, Jeep paves the way in which for a future the place journey is aware of no bounds and the joys of the journey stays electrifying.
Uncover the hidden treasures in Jeep fashions by exploring the fascinating world of easter eggs, distinctive design particulars that add character and attraction
Embracing The Electric Future With Confidence
The unveiling of the STLA Large platform marks a significant turning point for Jeep, presenting a strategic springboard for its foray into the electrical car (EV) enviornment. This versatile platform serves because the cornerstone for a brand new era of electrified autos, meticulously engineered to uphold the model’s quintessential values of journey, efficiency, and functionality.
A Foundation For Electrifying Adventures
The STLA Large platform boasts a number of key attributes that bode effectively for Jeep’s electrifying future. Its spectacular vary guarantees to liberate drivers from vary anxiousness, guaranteeing they’ll enterprise additional and discover new horizons with out limitations.
This prolonged vary, coupled with the platform’s exhilarating efficiency capabilities, ensures a driving expertise that stays true to Jeep’s adventurous spirit. Moreover, the platform’s dedication to sustainability aligns with the rising international concentrate on environmental duty, positioning Jeep as a model that prioritizes each journey and ecological consciousness.
A Seamless Transition Into The EV Era
While particular particulars relating to Jeep fashions leveraging the STLA Large platform are but to be unveiled, the platform’s potential is simple. This progressive structure empowers Jeep to take care of its management within the off-road phase, an area the place the model has reigned supreme for many years. The platform’s capabilities seamlessly bridge the hole between Jeep’s wealthy heritage and the burgeoning electrical car market, guaranteeing a easy transition into the brand new period with out compromising its core id.
The Spirit of Adventure Lives On
Jeep
The STLA Large platform serves as a testomony to Jeep’s unwavering dedication to its core values. This platform paves the way for a future where the spirit of adventure thrives, even amidst the transformative shift in direction of electrical mobility. By embracing innovation whereas staying true to its legacy, Jeep is poised to captivate the subsequent era of journey seekers, guaranteeing that the enduring model continues to go away its mark on the automotive panorama for years to come back.
The Jeep Wagoneer brings stiff competitors to a phase the place greater and extra succesful is best, and it excels at these items effectively.
Building A Greener Jeep With The STLA Large Platform
Jeep
The STLA Large platform marks a major step in Jeep’s journey towards a more sustainable future. This new structure prioritizes each environmental duty and flexibility, getting ready Jeep’s electrical autos for the ever-evolving world of EV know-how.
Extended Lifecycles And Future-Proof Design
The platform’s modular design facilitates the simple substitute and improve of key parts corresponding to battery packs, electrical motors, and software program. This extends the usable lifetime of autos, lowering waste and useful resource consumption related to frequent car replacements.
As battery and software program applied sciences advance, Jeep EVs constructed on the STLA Large platform might be readily up to date, guaranteeing they continue to be aggressive and related with out requiring full car overhauls. This strategy minimizes digital waste and promotes longer car lifespans.
Efficiency-Focused Architecture
Aligning With Stellantis’ Sustainability Goals
A Sustainable Future Awaits Jeep
The STLA Large platform represents a vital step in Jeep’s transition in direction of a extra sustainable future. By prioritizing environmental duty and future-proofing its EV know-how, Jeep is well-positioned to navigate the evolving panorama of electrical mobility whereas minimizing its environmental footprint.
This dedication to sustainability resonates with environmentally acutely aware customers, probably increasing Jeep’s buyer base and securing its long-term success within the electrified automotive market.
The carmaker will likely be displaying eight fashions on the automotive occasion, together with three all-new choices
India is about to witness the primary Bharat Mobility Expo which is able to happen between February 1 and three, 2024. Among the listing of members is Tata Motors who has now disclosed that it will likely be showcasing eight fashions on the occasion. Here’s what you’ll be able to be careful for:
Tata Nexon CNG
Tata is already the second greatest participant within the CNG automobile area regardless of its late entry, because of its many revolutionary options. After including the greener gas choice to the Punch and Altroz in 2023, Tata is able to introduce it within the facelifted Nexon as nicely. Tata will present the CNG package with the SUV’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine (120 PS/ 170 Nm), however with diminished output. It might additionally provide the Nexon CNG with each handbook and AMT transmission choices.
Tata Safari Dark Concept
In October 2023, the facelifted Tata Safari was launched with improved styling and extra fashionable options. At that point, the carmaker additionally re-introduced the 3-row SUV’s Dark iteration, which comes with blacked out alloy wheels, grille, cabin theme and fabric, and ‘Dark’ badges on the outside. Now, it appears Tata has include a brand new tackle it which will likely be showcased in idea kind on the expo. We anticipate it to be showcased in its Red Dark version, with purple highlights inside and outside.
The carmaker can even be showcasing a cross-section show of the usual Safari alongside the idea, highlighting its sturdy security suite. It is likely one of the first automobiles to have been crash examined by Bharat NCAP and it scored a 5-star security ranking.
Tata Curvv Concept
The latest addition to the Tata SUV lineup is about to reach in 2024, referred to as the Curvv, which can even be on show on the occasion. The carmaker will first launch it as an EV, which will likely be adopted by its inside combustion engine (ICE) model. The Curvv EV is more likely to get a number of battery packs providing a claimed vary of greater than 500 km. The Curvv ICE, however, will probably get each petrol and diesel powertrains.
Tata Altroz Racer Concept
The Tata Altroz Racer was first unveiled on the Auto Expo 2023, as a sportier variant of the usual Altroz hatchback. It has beauty upgrades inside and outside, and is predicted to include numerous characteristic updates now seen within the facelifted Nexon. Although no main adjustments are anticipated to the powertrain, the one notable distinction might be the inclusion of the Nexon’s 120 PS turbo-petrol engine.
Tata Punch EV
Tata launched the Punch EV as its first electrical mannequin primarily based on the newly developed Acti.EV platform. It will get a brand new design, which is consistent with the carmaker’s newer choices such because the Nexon and Curvv. It comes with a few battery pack choices, having a claimed vary of as much as 421 km. As the most recent providing, it would even be on show.
Another new showcase at Tata’s pavilion would be the Nexon EV Dark. First launched within the pre-facelift Nexon EV Max, this one will likely be primarily based on the facelifted Nexon EV, which will get a number of styling updates inside and outside. Being the Dark version, it would have some beauty revisions together with blacked-out alloy wheels and an all-black cabin theme. That stated, no adjustments are anticipated to its electrical powertrain or the options set.
Tata Harrier EV Concept
The facelifted Tata Harrier can even have an electrical model in 2024, which we first noticed at Auto Expo 2023 as an idea. The Harrier EV idea can even be current on the expo, maybe in an up to date kind that maintains a resemblance in design and options to the common Harrier. Itt is anticipated to be supplied with a number of electrical powertrain choices, delivering a claimed vary of over 500 km. Additionally, it would provide the selection of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant, one thing that has been lacking from Tata’s lineup for much too lengthy.
These are all of the automobiles that Tata will showcase on the Bharat Mobility Expo. Which mannequin are you most excited to know extra about? Stay tuned to CarDekho for the most recent updates from the Bharat Mobility Expo 2024.
The 2024 Dakar Rally bought just a bit tighter after stage eight. KTM’s Kevin Benavides made up floor on the leaders by profitable the stage narrowly over his Husqvarna-riding brother Luciano. Adrien Van Beveren was third, and now he finds himself very a lot in rivalry for the general, with 11 minutes to make up within the remaining 4 days. By ending seventh immediately, general chief Ricky Brabec did handle to get a barely larger cushion over second-place Ross Branch, however the two riders are nonetheless separated by lower than a minute. Today’s stage noticed riders journey north from Al Duwadimi to Ha’il with a 125 km highway part earlier than sandy tracks and massive troublesome dunes that will play part of the 458 km particular stage. Entering a non-timed switch zone of 179 km this is able to then take them again in opposition to the clock on the 344 km mark of the particular, because the change to stony terrain would take them ever nearer to the arrival level within the shadows of the Shammar mountain vary.
Ricky Brabec
Ricky Brabec: “I didn’t want to start too far away from Ross tomorrow so I had to play a little bit of cat and mouse with him. I caught him early on so I stuck with him all day, then at the refueling point I saw some times and I was winning. I let Ross take over and open the way to the finish line as we had to play smart today and I didn’t want him starting behind me tomorrow. It was still a good day to finish seventh and I’ll continue to have fun out there.”
Jacob Argubright
Jacob Argubright: “A nice uneventful stage 8 today, struggled a little bit in the camel grass and dunes with bike set up a bit but picked it up towards the end for P16.”
1. KEVIN BENAVIDES, RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING 03H 35′ 03” 2. LUCIANO BENAVIDES, HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING + 00H 00′ 31” 3. ADRIEN VAN BEVEREN, MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM + 00H 01′ 27” 4. JOSE IGNACIO CORNEJO FLORIMO, MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM + 00H 01′ 41” 5. TOBY PRICE, RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING + 00H 02′ 18” 6. RUI GONÇALVES, SHERCO RALLY FACTORY + 00H 02′ 24” 7. RICKY BRABEC, MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM + 00H 04′ 08” 8. ROSS BRANCH, HERO MOTOSPORTS TEAM RALLY + 00H 04′ 49” 9. DANIEL SANDERS, RED BULL GASGAS FACTORY RACING + 00H 05′ 10” 10. STEFAN SVITKO, SLOVNAFT RALLY TEAM + 00H 05′ 28” 16. JACOB ARGUBRIGHT, DUUST RALLY TEAM + 00H 13′ 52” 69. KYLE MC COY, AMERICAN RALLY ORIGINALS + 01H 36′ 50” 81. WESTON CARR, HT RALLY RAID HUSQVARNA RACING + 01H 45′ 52”
STANDINGS AFTER STAGE 8 1. RICKY BRABEC, MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM 36H 16′ 31” 2. ROSS BRANCH, HERO MOTOSPORTS TEAM RALLY + 00H 00′ 42” 3. JOSE IGNACIO CORNEJO FLORIMO, MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM + 00H 04′ 21” 4. ADRIEN VAN BEVEREN, MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM + 00H 11′ 58” 5. KEVIN BENAVIDES, RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING + 00H 20′ 31” 6. TOBY PRICE, RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING + 00H 29′ 10” 7. DANIEL SANDERS, RED BULL GASGAS FACTORY RACING + 00H 38′ 43” 8. LUCIANO BENAVIDES, HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING + 00H 39′ 35” 00H 15′ 00” 9. STEFAN SVITKO, SLOVNAFT RALLY TEAM + 01H 11′ 53” 10. MARTIN MICHEK, ORION – MOTO RACING GROUP + 01H 56′ 53” 67. KYLE MC COY, AMERICAN RALLY ORIGINALS + 18H 34′ 41” 75. WESTON CARR, HT RALLY RAID HUSQVARNA RACING + 20H 45′ 31” 97. JACOB ARGUBRIGHT, DUUST RALLY TEAM + 52H 59′ 47”
Bugatti has introduced that the Chiron is lastly coming to an finish eight years after its introduction in 2016. This is the final one to depart the Bugatti manufacturing facility at Molsheim… type of. This is the finale of the Chiron 1500 PS trim, and though it has been totally labored over by Bugatti’s Sur Measure in-house customization service, make no mistake — that is simply the final base mannequin Chiron. It’s not the top of the Chiron totally, or the rather more dramatic and long-awaited finale of the W16 powerplant.
This instance, which Bugatti completed in colours it calls Nocturne and Copper, was delivered to Bilal Hydrie, a Canadian oil and gasoline firm govt and a self-described “entrepreneur and risk-taker.” According to his Instagram, Hydrie ordered his final-example Chiron someday in November of 2021. While he did half-heartedly scribble out the pricing data in his put up, he managed to make sure that one key digit was left uncovered, so we all know that his Chiron value upwards of $3,000,000. Not unhealthy for an entry-level automobile.
Hydrie’s “final” Chiron comes after the ultimate Chiron Super Sport 300+ was delivered, and the ultimate available-for-sale Chiron Profilèe bought for $10.8 million at public sale final 12 months. Hydrie’s Chiron won’t retain the superlative for lengthy both, as patrons who aren’t satiated by mere base trims get their closing vehicles. Still left are an unknown variety of the Chiron Pur Sport, in addition to the W16-powered Mistral and Bolide.
Delivery dates for these automobiles are nonetheless unclear; Bugatti has merely stated the finale will probably be right here in a “few months with the delivery of the last [Chiron] example.” The final W16-powered automobile will probably be someplace in a kind of automobiles, because the successor to the Chiron will eschew the 8.0-liter powerplant in favor of a hybrid V8 drivetrain. Expect to see that automobile unveiled this 12 months forward of manufacturing beginning in 2026.
In the meantime, we are able to take bets on simply what number of extra “final” vehicles roll out of Molsheim earlier than we see the Chiron’s very long-awaited successor.
The Sonet facelift shall be provided in eight monotone and two dual-tone paint choices, whereas the X-Line variant will get its personal matte end shade
Facelifted Kia Sonet was unveiled lately in India.
Available in a complete of seven variants: HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+, GTX+, and X-Line.
Gets only one new color borrowed from the Seltos; others stay unchanged.
Has the identical petrol and diesel engines because the previous Sonet; and the diesel-MT possibility is again.
Launch anticipated in January 2024, with costs prone to begin from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).
It’s solely lately that the facelifted Kia Sonet was revealed in its full glory in India. Although we await its costs, the carmaker will quickly open bookings for the up to date SUV from December 20. So if you’re planning to place your title down for the brand new Sonet, try all the colors it’s obtainable in:
Pewter Olive (new)
Glacier White Pearl
Sparkling Silver
Gravity Grey
Aurora Black Pearl
Intense Red
Imperial Blue
Clear White
All shades have been carried over from the outgoing mannequin, with the one addition being the Pewter Olive color that has been borrowed from the brand new Kia Seltos. The Beige Gold shade that debuted on the Sonet when it launched in 2020 was discontinued some time in the past and isn’t going to be making a return with the facelifted mannequin.
It’s additionally provided in two dual-tone paint choices as talked about beneath:
The range-topping X-Line trim is available in a novel matte end shade referred to as the ‘Xclusive Matte Graphic.’
Apart from the outside shades, the cabin additionally is available in completely different color choices by the use of seat upholstery and different in-cabin highlights.
The X-Line variant has an all-black cabin with Sage Green leatherette seats and inserts. If you decide the GTX+ variant (underneath the GT Line), it additionally has an all-black cabin theme however the upholstery is completed in black and white, whereas the cabin options some white inserts as properly.
The Tech Line variants (also referred to as the HT Line) get a complete of three cabin themes: an all-black cabin with semi-leatherette seats, black and beige cabin theme and semi-leatherette seats, and an all-black cabin with black and brown seat upholstery with brown inserts.
Kia is providing the Sonet facelift with the identical petrol and diesel engines because the outgoing mannequin, with one addition to its transmission selections. In phrases of apparatus, its headlining options embrace twin 10.25-inch shows, a 360-degree digital camera, six airbags (now as customary) and superior driver help methods (ADAS). You can discover extra detailed info in our ‘Sonet facelift unveiled’ story.
Expected Launch And Price
We count on the facelifted Kia Sonet to go on sale in January 2024. Kia might worth the up to date sub-4m SUV from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). It will proceed to tackle the Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger, whereas additionally serving as a substitute for the Maruti Fronx crossover.
Last night, the first practice session of the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix was cut short after just eight minutes due to a loose drainage cover being dislodged by Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari. Not only did the incident damage Sainz’s car and result in a 10 grid place penalty, but it also disappointed F1 fans.
The scheduled free practice one was canceled, and by the time free practice two was set to start at 2:30 am for an extended 90-minute session, all fans had been asked to leave. This marked a disappointing start to what was expected to be a significant weekend on the F1 calendar. Additionally, the event faced criticism due to exorbitant pricing, traffic disruptions, lower than expected temperatures, and the lackluster response from a multiple-time champion.
Though I personally don’t use TikTok, members of the Motor1 and InsideEVs staff have noticed widespread criticism of the race weekend on the platform. Below are a few examples:
If you have more examples, feel free to share them in the comments. Let’s hope for a better remainder of the weekend.
Ben Collins was the white-suited Stig for eight years on Top Gear, coinciding with the show’s peak. In a recent video interview from the Road To Success podcast, he shared insights on working there, and the lengths he went to keep his “tame racing driver” identity under wraps.
Collins began his racing career at 18 years old and eventually raced in the top class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans for Team Ascari. His opportunity with Top Gear arose not long after.
Wanting to be involved with the franchise, Collins had a try-out at the Dunsfold Aerodrome circuit in a Ford Focus. Despite not being initially impressed, the show’s producer, Andy Wilman, later called him back and presented him with a white suit.
To maintain his alter ego secret, Collins would wear a balaclava to conceal his face on set and never remove his helmet while there. He would change clothes in a van when filming on location.
He even utilized a pseudonym, Richard Jameson, for hotel check-ins, derived from the names of the show’s hosts – Richard Hammond, James May, and Jeremy Clarkson.
Collins regretted a Top Gear segment that never came to fruition, where the hosts would race at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He viewed it as the perfect project for The Stig, but unfortunately, it didn’t materialize.
In an interview, Collins expressed his love for his time with Top Gear. Eventually, his cover was blown by a story in the BBC Radio Times, and he felt the show was phasing him out. He had his final episode with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz in the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car segment.
After leaving the show, Collins faced a legal battle with the BBC over his book, The Man in the White Suit: The Stig, Le Mans, The Fast Lane and Me, which he describes as the most stressful period in his life.
He currently runs the Ben Collins Drives YouTube channel, diving into the world of high-performance vehicles such as the six-wheeled Tyrrell P34 Formula 1 car.
Welcome to episode eight of the Autocar Business Change Makers Podcast, produced in partnership with car subscription software platform Tomorrow’s Journey.
Hosted by Chris Kirby, CEO of Tomorrow’s Journey, and Felix Page, news editor at Autocar, each episode explores how agile and disruptive companies in the UK are reshaping the automotive landscape. They have unprecedented access to the executives and thought leaders driving this change.
On episode eight, we have a conversation with Rob Buckland, chief sales officer at GRIDSERVE, about the future of second-life EVs, industry concerns, and GRIDSERVE’s innovative Sun-to-Wheel ecosystem.
We also discuss how GRIDSERVE is encouraging EV adoption, the role of solar power in the future of EV charging, and how GRIDSERVE is revolutionizing EV leasing. To find out more, listen to episode eight below.
The Autocar Change Makers Podcast is a must-listen for industry professionals interested in the future of the automotive industry. To listen now, subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts,
or your preferred podcast platform.
Tomorrow’s Journey has launched JRNY, a revolutionary Vehicle-as-a-service platform that makes accessing vehicles easier than ever. JRNY offers subscriptions, rentals, test drives, courtesy cars, and pool cars, giving fleet owners a comprehensive toolbox to create personalized customer experiences and automate operations. To learn more about how JRNY can work for you, click here.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
