INFINITI To Showcase The Retro Inspired ‘Prototype 9’ At 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

INFINITI has announced that they will be showcasing the retro inspired “Prototype 9” at the annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance during fabled Monterey Car Week.   With this all new creation, INFINITI, which was founded in 1989, has given us a glimpse to what one of their race cars may have looked like if the company had existed back in the 1940’s.  Just from one look it is easy to imagine this elegant racer pacing the track at the renowned Monaco Grand Prix.

The sleek time honored open wheeled Prototype 9 is a magnificent celebration of INFINITI’s creative craftsmanship, the retro inspired vehicle even went as far as to use original production techniques that would have been utilized in yesteryear production.  Modern fixtures include a prototype electric motor from Nissan’s advanced powertrain department, giving a unique contrast to the old fashioned techniques which were applied to build the Prototype 9.  One major nod to the past is the hand beaten panels created by a team of Takumi (the master artisans at Nissan).

“Prototype 9 celebrates the tradition of ingenuity, craftsmanship and passion of our forebears at Nissan Motor Corporation, on whose shoulders we stand today. It started as a discussion: What if INFINITI had created a race car in the 1940s? If one were to imagine an open-wheeled INFINITI racer on the famous circuits of the era, such as Japan’s Tamagawa Speedway, what would that look like? The sketches were stunning and the idea so compelling that we had to produce a prototype. As other departments became aware of this, they volunteered their time to create a working vehicle.”  – Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President, Global Design

The Prototype 9 was inspired by the initial inception of Japanese motorsport, and specifically the Prince R380, which will have it’s only known survivor on display during Monterey Car Week at The Quail.  The R380 is well praised as it was regarded as “Japan’s original builder of premium automobiles” having set multiple land speed records and also emerged as victor at the 1966 Japanese Grand Prix at the Fuji Speedway.  In August 1966 Prince Motor Company became a common ancestor of INFINITI when it was merged with Nissan Motors.

“We like to think that INFINITI, with its stunning design, high performance capability and forward-looking technology, shares some DNA with the Prince Motor Company, which became part of Nissan Motors. Prototype 9 is a celebration of the artistry and ingenuity inherent in our company.” – Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President, Global Design

Prototype 9 pays homage to INFINITI’s 1989 founding and current model line of “Q” and “QX” names.  In Japanese the number “9” is pronounced “kyuu” which is almost identical to the English pronunciation of the letter “Q.”

In all other dimensions the less than 2,000lb racer is highly characteristic of a vintage aeroplane; examples include an exposed cockpit, wire spoke wheels, and an elegant sleek bonnet.  The interior features a single black leather bucket seat with contrast red stitching handmade of the highest quality materials combined with outstanding Japanese craftenship.

“The beautiful execution of Prototype 9 represents a combination of artistry, craftsmanship and commitment to a romantic notion of our heritage. It inspired our people to work on Prototype 9 in their own time – as they were completely invested in the project and the details and features originated with them. Prototype 9 has been a labor of love for many of us.” – Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President, Global Design

The Prototype 9’s motor produces just under 150hp and 320nm of torque outputted through a single speed transmission via its rear wheels.  Top speed is just over 105 miles per hour with a not to sixty time of 5.5 seconds, with the electric battery permitting just 20 minutes of track time.

Acura’s Newest Race Car: The ARX-05 Prototype

Acura has just given us a glimpse at their new race car, the highly anticipated ARX-05 prototype, AKA the Acura Racing eXperimental generation 5; which is set to be raced by the famed Team Penske for the 2018 season.  The ARX-05 is significant, as it marks the Japanese automaker’s return to prototype racing.  The ARX-05 is set to be revealed at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering on August 18th, one of the most prestigious events during the annual Monterey Car Week.

This new prototype from Acura is just the latest in an over 25 year history of the brand’s proven success in producing endurance prototypes starting in 1991.  The ARX-05 is expected to celebrate many victories with the highly successful Team Penske which has accomplished over 450 major wins in their fifty plus year history.  The Acura ARX-05 will be hitting the track in January of 2018 to make its competition debut for the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach Florida.

For more information check out the teaser video below.

McCall’s Motorworks Revival Celebrates its 26th-year

McCall begins their preparations for the most marvelous Motorworks Revival in its 26-year history, which is set to take place at the Monterey Jet Center during the world renowned Monterey Car Week.  The grand gala invites a total of 3,000 fellow auto-moto-aero enthusiasts, while this year’s event spares no expense in offering the finest culinary and wine presentations of the evening.

McCall has combined aviation and automotive experiences together for yet another experimental celebration of the century alongside an array of delicious food and wine.  Local chefs Jerome Viel, from Jerome’s Carmel Valley Market, and Tim Wood, from the Valley Kitchen at Carmel Valley Ranch, will both join in the event and present guests bespoke composed plates paired with four highly exclusive, limited-production, “member only” boutique wines from Carmel Valley & Napa Valley, including award winning offerings from Bernardus Winery served by owner Ben Pon.  In addition, California Caviar is the opening entrée for the evening along with other epicurean morsels in the main Center Stage Pavilion.  Affina Food & Wine from Carmel will also be at the event to compliment the evening as the festivities come to a close and guests begin to take their leave.

“With so many events now on the Monterey Peninsula, our Wednesday night party seems to push all the buttons for several of our motorsports legend guests,” McCall says. “They get to see all of their friends here and can relax and enjoy the scenery without the crowds.” McCall’s VIP Red Carpet guests will once again enjoy an early arrival with valet parking and very little traffic. “We started this special ticket three years ago and the interest has grown substantially,” McCall reports. “We’re pleased to entertain people for an extra hour and give them the opportunity to take in more of the sights. It’s become a coveted party within the party. This year’s Red Carpet Club will be in the mezzanine of the main hangar, which will have its own bar and give the Red Carpet guests the bird’s-eye view over the hangar and tarmac display. The Red Carpet tickets have sold out since we started the special ticket, and are sure to sell out again this year.”

Some of the best aviation and automotive companies in the world will be represented at McCall’s 26th annual anniversary, allowing guests who happen to be dedicated auto-moto-aero aficionados an unforgettable evening.  The diverse group of prominent names from the aero industry such as Gulfstream, Textron Aviation, Bombardier, Pilatus, and Cirrus as well as the big names from the auto industry like Toyota, Rimac, Genesis, and more, will all be featured at McCall’s Motorworks Revival celebration.

Luxury Swiss watch manufacturer Baume & Mercier has prepared a special timepiece to be a prize in a raffle, which will also include several other high-end luxury item prizes as well as a hand crafted Amalgam 1:18 scale Ferrari model.  Baume & Mercier returns to support the California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation with a special watch donated for the evening’s charity raffle, while various corporate sponsors such as Barrett Jackson, Hagerty Insurance, The Thermal Club, HRE Performance, Weathertech, and Quail Rally engage in entertaining their VIP guests throughout the thrilling evening.

Amongst the numerous cutting-edge aero and auto displays are a line-up of privately owned vintage aircrafts as well as sports & race cars presented by McCall’s international group of friends.  This world-class event has upheld the same tradition of hosting the biggest names in the motorsports industry through the years, which even has several of McCall’s friends traveling from all around the globe for just this one-night celebration that is frequently known for being one of the most exclusive and sensational soirees of the year.

Save the Date for the 26th Anniversary of McCall’s Motorworks Revival: Wednesday, August 16, 2017

VIP tickets are available from $395 and Red Carpet Tickets from $550, for more information please visit:  McCallEvents.com/2017-tickets

Follow McCall Events on Instagram: @McCallEventsIncFollow

Rolls Royce’s New Phantom VIII: The Best car in the world

Every new Rolls-Royce Phantom series has upheld the same title as ‘The Best Car in the World’ ever since the day Co-Founder Sir Henry Royce first introduced the Rolls-Royce Phantom in 1925.  From then on, Rolls-Royce has never once left anyone thinking this title was undeserving as each Phantom model is an embodiment of pure perfection, visionary engineering, inventive ingenuity, and goes through a profound realization of what the world’s leading luxury should be.  And today yet another new Phantom – the eighth generation of this great nameplate – makes its debut with the title of ‘The Best Car in the World’ as it represents the next chapter for the timeless and iconic Rolls-Royce Phantom series.

“The global introduction of a new Rolls-Royce is always a very special moment within the BMW Group”, said Chairman of Rolls-Royce and Member of the Board of the BMW Group Peter Schwarzenbauer. “This particular occasion is all the more special because we are introducing an all-new Phantom, the flagship of the Rolls-Royce brand and the world’s foremost luxury product. New Phantom is a powerful statement of design, engineering and Bespoke expertise and I am delighted with the response we have received from our many highly discerning customers worldwide. The BMW Group remains fully committed to the future of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and is proud of the many achievements made by the brand since its acquisition.”

The new Rolls-Royce Phantom is equipped with the power of a V12 engine.  Although, unlike other Rolls-Royces, this new model (in addition to harboring a completely silent engine) features a cutting-edge 6.75-litre V12 powertrain that has been engineered for New Phantom in place of the former V12 engine.  The new V12 Phantom engine utilizes two turbochargers that provides a low-end torque output of 900Nm at a reduced 1,700rpm while transferring 563bhp or 420kW of power, which results in an impassive surge of power for rapid acceleration and calm low speed progress related to state occasions.  The extension of Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT), alongside a ZF 8-Speed gearbox is also a great assurance to help keep the driver prepared for whatever obstacle he may encounter while on the road.

New Phantom is 30% more rigid than the spaceframe architecture on which sat Phantom VII, the new architecture of the Phantom VIII demonstrates the next generation of the Rolls-Royce in terms of ride comfort, acoustic comfort, seat comfort, exterior presence and interior space.  In pursuit of creating ‘the most silent car in the world’, the Phantom includes 6mm two-layer glazing all around the car, more than 130kg of sound insulation, the largest ever cast aluminium joints in a body-in-white for superior sound insulation, and use of high absorption materials.  Acoustic insulation has been reinforced with the employment of double skin alloy on areas within the floor and bulkhead of the spaceframe.  Furthermore, high absorption layers within the headliner, in the doors, and in the boot cavity have added additional insulation and lessened reverberation.  Rolls-Royce even extended much of their time and effort to work closely with its tyre supplier in constructing the ‘Silent-Seal’ tires, which was created using a specific foam layer inside the tyre to remove tyre cavity noise whilst reducing overall noise by 9db.  Providing a smooth drive, the largest high-value alloy wheel ever employed on a Rolls-Royce (22-inch Rolls-Royce’s Seal Technology Tyres) has been equipped to New Phantom.

The operation systems within New Phantom connects and controls all of the advanced intelligence systems, making the vehicle the most technologically advanced luxury motor car available.  Assistance systems on-board New Phantom include, but are not limited to: Alertness Assistant, a 4-camera system with Panoramic View, all-round visibility including helicopter view, Night Vision and Vision Assist, Active Cruise Control, collision warning, pedestrian warning, cross-traffic warning, lane departure and lane change warning, an industry leading 7×3 high-resolution head-up display, WiFi hotspot, and of course the latest navigation and entertainment systems.

Undergoing a spectacular, new approach with the Pantheon grille as the core of New Phantom’s design; the grille is heightened to a far greater extent than that of Phantom VII, subsequently elevating the position of the Spirit of Ecstasy roughly a half inch higher.  It also relates to the futuristic design on the grille of VISION NEXT 100 – a brilliant Rolls-Royce concept that was codenamed 103EX last year.  Emanating from the upper tips of the grill is polished stainless steel strips that curve along the upper edges of the bonnet and around the windscreen.

High gloss tactile wood paneling, which can be commissioned for the door interiors, dashboard, centre consoles, and picnic tables, envelops the passengers within elegant and genuine materials.  The armrests aboard the car were inspired by the J-Class yacht, and the tension & ‘hull’ of the armrests are directly referenced from these same large sailing yachts.

The seats have been hand-crafted with a strong horizontal aspect through the top of the seat, which convey amplitude, comfort, and presence that also imparts a vertical apprehension of the seat ‘bullet’ previously seen in Wraith and Dawn.  Buyers will be able to commission different seating choices that better suit their own personal preferences such as the lounge seat configuration, individual seats with occasional armrest, individual seats with fixed centre console, and the newly introduced sleeping seat.

Throughout the interior, heating functions can be found in the front door armrests, front centre console lid, lower C-Pillar, rear side armrests with all individual seats, and rear centre armrest.  The stretch of wood paneling that run across the back of the front seats are influenced by the famous Eames Lounge Chair of 1956.  Hidden behind the wood panelling on the rear of the front seats are the Rear Picnic tables and Rear Theatre Monitors – capable of being electrically opened and closed with a simple touch of a button.

The rear centre console features an improved upgrade that incorporates a drink cabinet with whisky glasses and decanter as well as champagne flutes and coolbox.  In addition, the rear seats within the car can be effortlessly rearranged to face the other seat, whilst granting occupants the possibility to strike up a conversation face-to-face with one another.

The New Rolls-Royce Phantom has not only become a milestone for the luxury car manufacturer as ‘the Best Car in the World’, but it is also the world’s leading luxury item.  This recently issued eighth-generation Phantom brings in a new era for Rolls-Royce; whereas New Phantom paves the way to the future of the global luxury industry, as it combines high living and comfort while still on the road.

For more information visit:  Rolls-RoyceMotorcars.com

NBA Superstar Stephen Curry is The New Face of INFINITI

Often known by countless basketball players and analysts as “the greatest shooter in NBA history”, Stephen Curry makes an epic appearance in the filming of INFINITI’s new Q50 commercial campaign.  The new INFINITI campaign video features Stephen Curry’s astounding basketball shooting prowess, which left crew members during the filming engrossed in awe.

While he was on set of the new Q50 Sports Sedan advert, which will be launched this Summer, Stephen Curry once again demonstrated his extraordinary mastery of long-distance shots as it went through the sunroof and brilliantly landed into the front seat of the car.  Curry has also just been recently declared the new Global Ambassador for INFINITI, as his phenomenal accomplishments and own personal aspirations in NBA has reached an outstanding level that passionately symbolizes the lofty spirit of INFINITI.

15th annual The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

The Quail announced their selection of 2017 sponsors for the 15th annual The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, which is slated to take place at the Quail Lodge & Golf Course in Carmel, California on Friday, August 18, 2017.  The list of sponsors for this luxury automotive event, that will be presenting new as well as returning names, includes Burgess Yachts, Rolex Watch USA, Sentient Jet, Louis Roederer, Walter Leather Company, Cultures by Toni P. Ltd., and many other renowned luxury labels.

The Quail has wholly supported their partnership with the prominent automotive brands and luxury labels ever since the classic car event was first established in 2003.  And to this day, with the 15th annual The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering just around the corner, the relationship between The Quail and its sponsors only continues to further strengthen and flourish through the years.  For this year’s bolstered selection of partnerships, which includes additional travel, spirits, and fashion accessory sponsors, the luxury elements brought to the annual event and to the guests in attendance will not be anything shy of extraordinary.  The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering has become an increasingly popular event to attend in the recent years, with its growing presence in the luxury industry as well as its influence in the automotive sector, the sponsorships spare no effort in gathering together the best of the motorsport and luxury lifestyle worlds to converge in one spectacular event.

The following lists the previously mentioned luxury fashion and lifestyle sponsors for The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering:

• Burgess Yachts – founded in 1975 by famed sailor Nigel Burgess, the global superyacht industry leader offers everything from charters and new yacht construction to yacht management for luxury yachts over 30 meters (1oo feet). In 2001, Burgess Yachts was the first yacht brokerage firm (being the world’s number one superyacht brokerage house) to be presented the esteemed Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
• Rolex Watch USA – has long been the Official Timepiece of The Quail since 2005 and has since then been the name behind the prestigious Rolex Circle of Champions, which also serves as the stage for the ‘Best in Show’ winners after being awarded with The Quail trophy for represented classes.
• Sentient Jet – an elite private aviation enterprise, offers on-demand jet charters and is the industry leader in providing superior service, safety and style.
• Louis Roederer – an exquisite producer of champagne based in Reims, France, and also remains one of the only independent, family-operated maisons de champagne.
• Walter Leather Company – a premier leather garment designer, also known for making the highest quality handmade leather products and uniquely-inspired pieces for over 20 years.
• Cultures by Toni P. Ltd. – a fine jewelry line with designs inspired by exotic cultures and travel destinations, primarily represents Asian countries in its design inspiration. Toni Patrizio (the company’s founder) personally explored these countries and cultures to reflect on her own collection that combines Asian artifacts with a New Age contemporary twist.

Ticketed guests for the event are given the chance to experience gourmet dishes in four pavilions themed after signature Peninsula Properties around the world, ranging from Carmel Valley, Beverly Hills, Paris, and China.  For this year’s The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, a new fifth culinary pavilion was added as an Italian tent sponsored by Pirelli along with a menu inspired by their limited-edition cookbook: Miles and Meals.  The event will take place with a garden-party setting, offering guests an unrivaled ambiance for satiating their palate in award-winning wines & spirits, specialty cocktails, and an oyster & caviar bar, while also granting them a magnificent display of rare collectable cars from 10 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon.

All General Admission Tickets for The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering have already been sold out via a lottery system in February.  Though, available tickets for the event are still obtainable such as the Charitable Patron Ticket for $2,500 and limited for only 150 guests as well as The Quail Helicopter Ticket for $6,000 inclusive of two tickets with just 9 pairs available.  For any additional information on purchasing available tickets, please contact The Peninsula Signature Events at (831) 620-8879.

Follow The Quail: @TheQuailEvents.

For more information visit:  SignatureEvents.Peninsula.com.

Limited Edition Aston Martin x Hogan Sneaker Collection

For all who are sporting the latest sneakers and are devoted fans of high-quality racing shoes, check out this new pair of super stylish sneakers.  Announced as one of the many collaborations at Men’s Fashion Week in London, this footwear project has been marked as the most eagerly expected and awaited collaboration between luxury designer brands and world-famous labels.  Presenting an extraordinary approach to street-wear style along with a superlative design only a luxury car can provide, the new limited edition Aston Martin x Hogan sneaker comes sweeping in this fall.

“Hogan’s attention to detail and passion for beautiful products, and Aston Martin’s beautiful craftsmanship made this project a natural fit,” said Sergio Azzolari, General Manager from Hogan. “It was a pleasure for us to collaborate on a shoe that reflects the attention to detailing in Aston Martin sports cars.”

Hogan with their master craftsmanship and expert knowledge on all things footwear alongside luxury sports car manufacturer Aston Martin with an aesthetic sense for speed and contemporary design, makes this new pair of sneakers a phenomenal piece of high-grade running shoes.  The new Aston Martin x Hogan sneaker was inspired by Hogan’s iconic ‘Olympia’ sneaker, additionally fashioned with full leather and nylon mesh to achieve a smart yet polished look.  Aston Martin’s artisan leather craftsmanship finely detailed the shoes, giving the same sort of elegance that an Aston Martin sports car would offer.  These sleek new sneakers portray the Aston Martin wings insignia on the tongue, which is made up of Aston Martin’s classic kestrel tan leather, greatly resembles the way a genuine Aston Martin sports car would look, well if that sports car somehow turned into a shoe.

“Collaborating with brands that share our views on quality, style and elegance is important to us,” states Marek Reichman, EVP & Chief Creative Officer at Aston Martin. “Working with creative teams outside of the automotive industry helps to broaden our designers’ minds, and this is always a positive experience for both myself and my team at Gaydon. We take inspiration from all walks of life and our work with Hogan will help to shape and inspire many aspects of our future creations”.

Each limited edition Aston Martin x Hogan sneaker is forged with the very same craftsmanship seen in Aston Martin’s British sports cars and in the Italian master’s typical pair of luxury shoes.  In addition, the sneaker is presented in four seasonal shades, offering you flexibility in an extended variety of options to choose from. The Aston Martin x Hogan Autumn Winter 2017/18 sneaker collection will be limited to just 3,000 pairs and available at Hogan flagship stores worldwide or at the Aston Martin Dover Street brand centre starting at the end of June.

For more information visit:  Hogan.com or AstonMartin.com

The Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award

(Above: Last Year’s winner of  The Best of the Best Award)

The 1937 Talbot-Lago T150C SS ‘Goutte d’Eau’: Goodwood Cartier Style et Luxe

The Peninsula Hotels announced on June 14, 2017, the eight outstanding automobiles also known as the top eight “Best of Show” winners that have qualified to compete for The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award: the international motoring world’s finest accolade for most remarkable classic car.  Taking place in Carmel, California for a second year, the world-famous classic automobile event will have the nominees from eight of the top concours events from around the globe, ranging from the early production types to the mid-1950s Italian race cars.  The winner of  The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award will be declared on Tuesday, August 15, 2017, at a private dinner during the acclaimed Monterey Car Week.

Sir Michael Kadoorie, Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, announced the award in 2015 with co-founder Christian Philippsen, William E. “Chip” Connor and Bruce Meyer.  The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award became among the top automotive awards throughout the world, it was then known far-and-wide as a leading international motor car event for the ultimate classic car.  This phenomenal award is sponsored by The Peninsula Hotels, and gathers together the eight concours circuits’ “Best of Show” contenders from all corners of the globe.

“We are delighted to return to Monterey Car Week this year to celebrate the world’s most exceptional motor car with The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award,” said The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, co-founder of the award and Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, owner and operator of The Peninsula Hotels. “This has become the motoring world’s most prestigious award, which recognizes the masterful craftsmanship and finest attributes of the highest-ranking automobiles from within the concours circuit. Attention to detail, elegance, and tradition are all values that we hold dear at The Peninsula, so it is especially fitting for us to serve as the patron of this award.”

The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award, co-founded by Sir Michael Kadoorie along with classic car cognoscenti Christian Philippsen, William E. “Chip” Connor and Bruce Meyer, was created to honor the best of the automotive world: the classic automobiles and vintage Italian race cars that have proven to uphold their grandeur and style throughout the years.  The founders all share a prodigious dedication and an aesthetic sense towards fine motor cars, while also keeping the preservation of their heritage and impeccable restoration projects in the highest regard.

The eight “Best of Show” winners and finalists in The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award to be under consideration for the award as the most exceptional classic car are as follows:

1952 Pegaso Z-102 Berlineta Cúpula: Amelia Island Concours de Sport

One of about 80 high-end sports to be produced by the Spanish automaker from 1951 to 1958, the Cúpula is famed for its radical styling. Only two Cúpula models with the oversized rear window, side exhausts and partially skirted fenders were ever built.

1960 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Coupé Superfast II by Pinin Farina: The Gran Turismo Ferrari Cup, Cavallino Classic

One of 14 400 SA cars produced by Ferrari, this historic model formed the basis for the highly influential Superfast line of supercars and was the first truly aerodynamic design by Pinin Farina.

1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta by Touring Superleggera: Chantilly Arts & Elégance Richard Mille

Arguably one of the most celebrated cars of our time, this exceptional vehicle is known for its exaggerated rear overhang, false louvres on the scuttle and dramatic front fenders. It was also the first of only five Berlinettas constructed on the 2900B chassis.

1938 Dubonnet Xenia Coupé by Saoutchik: Concours of Elegance UK

Developed by Andre Dubonnet, an inventor, racing driver and World War One fighter pilot, is famed for its aeronautical influence. The striking streamlined body features curved glass, sliding doors and a panoramic windscreen.

1954 Masarati A6GCS/53 Berlinetta by Pinin Farina: Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

The Berlinetta-bodied sports car from Pinin Farina is considered to be the best preserved of the four models produced. Its uncompromising sporting style is highly representative of the coachbuilding artistry of the 1950s.

1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Coupé by Bertone: Goodwood Cartier Style et Luxe Concours d’Elegance

With an extraordinary place in Lamborghini’s history, this one-of-a-kind model was restored with great efforts to preserve the show car’s authenticity. It illustrates the iconic appeal of the Miura class, which has been widely revered as a forerunner of modern super sports models.

1936 Lancia Astura Cabriolet Tipo Bocca by Pinin Farina: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

This model is distinguished by its curved side glass, a power top and its unusual basket-woven interior trim – a detail showing its exceptional elegance and craftsmanship. A testament to Pinin Farina’s design mastery, a long, bright trim on the side of the body wraps around the tail and dips toward the upper corner of the radiator grille.

1953 Ferrari 375 MM Spyder by Pinin Farina: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

This racing car represents one of only nine models produced. Pinin Farina was commissioned by Jim Kimberly to complete the masterful one-off now known for its glorious Kimberly red color.

The top 8 automobile contenders competing for The Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award will be judged by 24 distinguished motorcar authorities, design specialists, and esteemed celebrities that are frequently present during various events and other motorcar related functions in the automotive industry.  These world-renowned judges will include:

• Anne Asensio, who has played an influential and executive role in the automotive industry for nearly 20 years and has won numerous accolades.
• Chris Bangle, best known for his work as Chief of Design for the BMW Group, where he was responsible for bringing the designs of the BMW, Mini Cooper, and Rolls Royce into the 21st century.
• Peter Brock, best known for his work on the Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe and Corvette Sting Ray, now leads his company Aerovault to manufacture aerodynamically efficient single-car trailers.
• Ian Callum, Director of Design for Jaguar Cars.
• Ian Cameron, previously serving as Design Director for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and Brand Ambassador for BMW Group Classic, Cameron is now a retired aficionado who spends time working on classic cars.
• Luc Donckerwolke, Designer for Hyundai Motor Group’s Genesis luxury brand.
• Fabio Filippini, Former Chief Creative Officer at Pinin Farina, Filippini created many award-winning concept cars. His most recent works are the concepts Fittipaldi EF7 Vision Gran Turismo by Pinin Farina and Hybrid Kinetic H600 by Pinin Farina, presented at the Geneva Motor Show in 2017.
• Henry Ford, III, the great-great grandson of Ford Motor founder Henry Ford.
• HRH Prince Michael of Kent, a paternal first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, has personal interests in autosport, aviation and travel. He currently holds the Presidency of the Royal Automobile Club, one of the world’s foremost private members’ clubs and the United Kingdom’s oldest and most prestigious motoring organization.
• Ralph Lauren, global fashion and lifestyle designer, famed within the automotive sector for his world-renowned car collection.
• Jay Leno, acclaimed TV show host on CNBC Television series “Jay Leno’s Garage” which debuted in 2015; the show has garnered several Emmy Awards and nominations for Outstanding Special Class–Short-Format Nonfiction Programs.
• Flavio Manzoni, automobile designer best known for his work at Ferrari, Lancia and Volkswagen. His latest work includes the F12 Tdf (Tour de France), the most extreme version of the F12 Berlinetta, the first Ferrari with four-wheel steering and the GTC4Lusso, introduced at the 2016 Geneva show.
• The Earl of March, Charles, Earl of March is the eldest son of the Duke of Richmond, owner of Goodwood in West Sussex and founder of the Goodwood Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival. A highly successful photographer, he is also President of the British Automobile Racing Club.
• Nick Mason, former Pink Floyd drummer and classic car enthusiast. Despite his 50-year career as the drummer in Pink Floyd, Nick has managed to compete regularly in a wide variety of racing cars, including five times at Le Mans.
• François Melcion, Managing Director of Rétromobile chez Comexposium, is regularly invited to judge at concours, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the former Louis Vuitton Classic, and Chantilly Art & Elegance.
• Gordon Murray, best known for his work as a designer of Formula One race cars and the McLaren F1 road car.
• Shiro Nakamura, Former Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer for Nissan Motor Corporation.
• Ken Okuyama, is widely known for his work as Design Director for Pinin Farina S.p.A., where he designed and supervised projects such as the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati Quattroporte.
• Adolfo Orsi Jr., well known auto historian and grandson and son of Adolfo and Omer Orsi, owners of Maserati between 1937 and 1967.
• Rana Manvendra Singh, a member of the erstwhile royal family of Barwani in Madhya Pradesh, India, is a famed classic and vintage car expert in the country.
• Ratan Tata, best known for his role as Chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata group.
• Dato Seri Jean Todt, is famed for having led Scuderia Ferrari to win 14 Formula One World titles and 106 Grand Prix victories before assuming several esteemed positions within the Ferrari-Maserati Group. He was also elected President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in 2009, and again in 2013.
• Gordon Wagener, Chief Design Officer of Mercedes-Benz and all brands of Daimler AG. Under his leadership, the design philosophy of “Sensual Purity” was created, which is now being continually developed to define modern luxury and express an essential aspect of the brand.
• Edward Welburn, retired from General Motors Design after 44 years of distinctive service, Welburn has recently received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from the College for Creative Studies for his rich career in design. He has also been inducted in the prestigious Automotive Hall of Fame.

Following the announcement from last Tuesday, the winning automobile will be honored on stage at the 15th-annual “The Quail, A motorsports Gathering” on August 18, 2017.  For additional information regarding “The Quail, A motorsports Gathering”  visit:  SignatureEvents.Peninsula.com

Sweptail: The Ultimate Rolls-Royce

The new Rolls-Royce Sweptail had it’s unveiling on May 27th at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como, Italy.  This world-famous event has been home to competition grounds for classic and vintage cars alike since 1929, as well as the host to some of the most legendary concept cars to make their debut in the auto industry.  Demonstrating a sleek yet smart outer appearance and a ravishing interior design, the new one-off Rolls-Royce is the first factory-built custom coachwork to originate from the marque’s facility in Goodwood, England, in the last 70-years.  The Rolls-Royce Sweptail, which was ordered by a client residing close by Villa d’Este, is the end-result of a four year collaboration boasting fortuitous contours and inclusive sheet metal that were specifically designed to embody the Rolls Royce name.

From the car’s striking twin rounded headlights to an array of design details influenced by the client’s own personal preferences, the two-seat Rolls-Royce has been made into a-one-of-a-kind, unrivaled luxury vehicle.  Director of Design Giles Taylor developed Sweptail to be tailored explicitly towards the client, this is evidenced by the curvature of the stern that pays homage to the client’s love for classic and contemporary yachts.  In addition, the car features an immense grille (larger than any other current Rolls-Royce model) forged with solid aluminum and hand-polished till an illuminated, mirror like appearance emerged.

The interior of the Rolls boasts a minimalistic approach due to concealing buttons and other controls from the eyes of the passenger and driver, in turn this offers the vehicle an exceptionally luxurious inner presence like no other.  Stretches of polished Macassar ebony & open-pore Paldao are featured throughout the cabin.  The back seats were swept out and in its place a middle wooden shelf heightened with a slim yet luminous glass lip was added.  Set up behind the coach doors you will find a pair of boxes with two custom-made attaché cases inside them, which can be opened with just a press of a button.  Encompassed by conflicting Moccasin and Dark Spice leather trim, the center console shelters a champagne holder along with two crystal flutes.

“Sweptail is the automotive equivalent of Haute Couture,” comments Taylor at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “It is a Rolls-Royce designed and hand-tailored to fit a specific customer. This customer came to the House of Rolls-Royce with an idea, shared in the creative process where we advised him on his cloth, and then we tailored that cloth to him. You might say we cut the cloth for the suit of clothes that he will be judged by.”  Rolls-Royce has demonstrated their time-honored design process alongside innovative enhancements in the Sweptail, which may very well lead Rolls-Royce to a new era of car-making that has the raw, un-tapped potential of revolutionizing the auto-industry.

For more information visit:  Rolls-RoyceMotorCars.com

Photos by: James Lipman / JamesLipman.com

The Newly Redesigned & Enhanced BMW 5 Series

The German luxury vehicle, motorcycle, and engine manufacturing company, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, also known by its abbreviated name, BMW, has slightly reconfigured their superlative BMW 5 Series for the 2017 model year with new enhanced performance capabilities.  The BMW 5 Series has been an extremely popular vehicle since it began production in 1972, and has continued to be an all-time-favorite for BMW with it taking up 20% of the automakers U.S. sale.

Updates for the BMW 5 Series includes heightened character lines that give the car a fiercer appearance, modified lowered air intakes, and new headlights linked together to an evolved kidney grill equipped with streamlined shutters.  The car is also an extended version of the prior seventh generation midsize sedan, which is partially the result of a new chassis that took off 137 pounds, whilst boosting handling and performance.  Ludwig Willisch, head of BMW Group Region Americas says “It’s still the benchmark for agility, fun to drive, and there’s a lot of technology.”

At first BMW’s 2017 5 Series was released in two separate versions, one a 335 hp 540i model priced at $56,450 and the other a 248 hp 530i with a price of $51,200.  But this Spring lineup features a much larger selection, which includes the 530e iPerformance (priced at $52,395), a plug-in hybrid that is coupled with an electric motor and a 2-litre, 4-cylinder engine.  As well as the M550i xDrive (priced at $73,095), motored by a 4.4-litre turbo-charged V-8 and generates up to 456 hp.

Each of the 2017 5 Series models contain a new touchscreen added on top of the center dashboard, the touchscreen also has the $190 Gesture Control preference that enables the user to handle the stereo volume as well as several other actions by creating certain hand gestures before the screen.  Another key function of the new 5 Series is that all its models posses the latest version of iDrive: a feature that supplies swifter and better augmented navigation & assimilation with Amazon Alexa.  This allows you the option of voice command where your able to tell Alexa to either turn on the heat or air-conditioning settings, or check on your fuel range for a forthcoming excursion.

For more information visit:  bmwusa.com