Bugatti Type 57SC Coupé Wins The Third Annual The Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award in Paris

On February 8th, the rare 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Coupé Atlantic was declared the winner of the prestigious The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award at the The Peninsula Paris Hotel.  Celebrating its third year, The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award gathered eight of the world’s most refined classic cars (the best of show winners from the top international concours) to clash against each other for the title of most outstanding car in the world.  In the end, it was of course the Bugatti that triumphed over the other motor cars.  The Bugatti Type 57SC Coupé Atlantic is co-owned by the Mullin Automotive Museum and Rob & Melani Walton, located in California, USA.  In addition, the car was also named “Best of Show Concours d’Etat” at the 2017 Chantilly Arts & Elegance.

According to Bruce Meyer, “For the third year, the ultimate standard for judging The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award was that of uncompromised quality and design. Of course, this made the selection process most challenging for the esteemed group of panellists.” He continued: “In the end, the 1936 Bugatti Type 57 SC Coupé Atlantic emerged victorious, with its exceptional, bespoke design making it a marvellous combination of art and technology.” 

This legendary Bugatti is powered by a supercharged engine and is recognized by many as the first supercar ever produced; the most significant thing about the Bugatti is that it is one of only four Type 57 Atlantic models ever created, with just three still in existence.  The car was designed by Jean Bugatti, Ettore Bugatti’s son, during the peak of the Art Deco movement.  Jean gathered inspiration for the Type 57 Atlantic from another of his designs, the 1935 Aérolithe concept car, which was well known for its riveted exterior that was installed to protect the car’s magnesium-alloy body parts from catching on fire.  Jean utilized this signature riveted seam on the all-aluminum body of the Atlantic, thereby bringing this classic look to life.

“The Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is the crown jewel of the automotive circuit,” said Bugatti Head of Tradition Julius Kruta. “This car was Jean Bugatti’s masterpiece with its beautiful and breath-taking lines, plus its unmatched performance for the time. Today, it remains the ultimate expression of the Bugatti legacy: unparalleled power and beautiful design.”

This exact model, chassis number 57374, was the first Type 57 Atlantic to be produced as well as the sole surviving “Aéro Coupé,” which is a moniker given exclusively to the first two cars that shared a mechanical similarity to the Aérolithe.  When the car was brand new in 1936, it was delivered to Britain’s Nathaniel Mayer Victor Rothschild, also known as third Baron Rothschild, and since then it has passed through the hands of quite a few owners throughout its 82-year history.  The Type 57SC Atlantic Coupé has been on display around the globe a fair number of times, most recently being when it was on display at the Los Angeles-based Petersen Automotive Museum for the “Art of Bugatti” exhibit.

“The Atlantic represents the pinnacle of everything I adore about French automotive styling and is widely described as the Mona Lisa of the automobile collector world,” said Peter Mullin, Founder and CEO of the Mullin Automotive Museum. “From its signature curves to its aviation-inspired rivets, to the Jean Bugatti designed sleek all-aluminium body, the car is truly a remarkable piece of art. I’m very honoured to have shared it with the world amongst other worthy ‘Best of the Best’ contenders.”

“I second Peter’s thoughts – the other seven nominees were simply stunning, which makes winning the award feel even more special,” said Rob Walton, co-owner of the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupé. “What this award does is allow us to take a step back and admire the quality and beauty of the greatest classic cars in existence today. For an automotive fan like myself, it’s a joy.”

The third annual The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award was previously presented during Monterey Car Week, but the award was relocated to Paris this year to be in-attendance during the acclaimed Rétromobile event.  The extraordinary automobile was presented at an exclusive reveal party at The Peninsula Paris’ subterranean garage, following a private dinner, which was briefly stated in an earlier article that also listed the finalists.

Speaking of the award’s legacy, The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited and co-founder of the award said, “My great hope is that we not only succeed in thrilling long-term car enthusiasts, but that this award will also ignite a new-found passion for those just discovering the world of motoring.”

For more information visit:  Peninsula.com

McLaren 720S Dubbed Most Beautiful Supercar of the Year 2017

McLaren has long been a very prominent British automaker that unceasingly creates countless breakthroughs in the automotive industry.  In 1981, they introduced lightweight and powerful carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.  Later in 1993, they designed and constructed the McLaren F1 road car; after this, the automaker never again built a car without a carbon fibre chassis.  And now at the Festival Automobile International in Paris, also known as the “Fashion Week” for cars, their latest masterpiece, the McLaren 720S, was officially dubbed the Most Beautiful Supercar of the Year 2017.

The award ceremony for the Azores Orange colored McLaren 720S had over 600 guests in attendance, and was celebrated right beside the renowned Hôtel des Invalides.  This accolade, which crowned the McLaren 720S the Most Beautiful Supercar of the Year 2017, is currently on its thirty-third year.  The car was highly praised for its aerodynamic elements and impressive new assimilation of McLaren’s design style, thereby making the 720S the embodiment of the brand’s exceptional performance DNA.

Imparting his thoughts about the award, David Gilbert, Managing Director – Europe at McLaren Automotive, said: “The 720S being awarded the Most Beautiful Supercar of the Year is another great achievement and honour for everyone at McLaren Automotive. Since its unveiling at the 2017 International Geneva Motor Show, the McLaren 720S has received numerous accolades: this award is a further boost for everyone at McLaren, and reflects the superb teamwork by our design group in creating and crafting the lines and proportions of the 720S that attracted recognition from the judges of our design ethos of form following function.”

Being both designed and hand-assembled by the British luxury automaker in Woking, UK.  The 720S was acknowledged for its cutting edge design, advanced technology setup, and overall driving performance.  It was given the award by a party of 17 distinguished judges that range from various different industries.  The 17 judges chose the 720S as the Most Beautiful Supercar of the Year 2017 amidst many fierce competitors such as Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage, Ferrari’s Portofino and the Porsche Panamera.

The 720S is a perfect example of McLaren’s innovativeness and expert engineering: with brilliant new interpretations of McLaren design language that’s based off aerodynamic principles, which gave the supercar a breathtaking form whilst dropping any excessive weight from its body.  In addition, the car was equipped with an array of luxury features to grant even the most demanding of customers a pleasurable experience.  This second generation McLaren is divided into three separate levels of specification: 720S, 720S Performance and 720S Luxury.  The McLaren 720S begins with prices starting from £208,600 (equivalent to $291,564) for the UK market.

For more information visit:  McLaren.com

The Story of The 1968 “Bullitt” Ford Mustang

Recently many people were surprised by the identity of the 1968 Bullitt Ford Mustang and its astonishing history, as it was once driven by Steve McQueen in the critically acclaimed movie “Bullitt”.  The car was very important to Mr. McQueen for personal reasons, and he didn’t wish for it to be restored as he wanted it in its original condition from the film.  Being a automobile enthusiast and racer, Mr. McQueen just had to buy the 1968 Ford Mustang, especially because of the epic chase scene the car was in during Bullitt.

“The rediscovery of the Bullitt Mustang is huge in the car world, said McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty (the world’s largest classic car insurer), as he tells us more about the significance of the Bullitt Mustang. Many people consider the chase scene featuring it to be one of the best, if not the best, car chase scenes of all time. The mystery of where it’s been for 40 years only adds to its allure. There were only two Mustangs used for filming, and this was the one actually driven by Steve McQueen, the ‘King of Cool.’ Everyone probably assumed it was gone for good, and now it turns up in mostly unrestored condition, modifications made for filming, and with the original interior, including the seats McQueen himself sat in. That’s remarkable.”

McKeel added, “valuing a vehicle that is among the most cherished movie cars of all time is difficult, if not impossible. It’s ultimately worth what someone will pay for it. Steve McQueen is such an icon in the car world, though, that we expect a lot of interest in owning it, which will increase its price, if in fact the owner sells it. We saw the same thing happen with other iconic TV and movie cars like the original Batmobile, which sold for $4.6M in 2013, and the James Bond Aston Martin DB5, which sold for $4.1M in 2010. It would not be surprising if the Bullitt – were it to come to auction – would be in a similar range.”

Though Mr. McQueen wrote a letter to buy the car, his offer was refused; after more than four decades since it last surfaced, that legendary car has again reemerged in the world with an incredible story to tell.  To learn the full story of the car and why it has been such a long time since it attracted the spotlight, visit:  Hagerty.com

Image credit: Casey Maxon

Bentley Motorsport adds Jules Gounon

Just recently Bentley Motorsport has welcomed the addition of 22 year old French driver, Jules Gounon, into their ranks for the 2018 season. Mr. Gounon’s titles include champion of the 24 Hours of Spa; the Frenchman will now be racing alongside teammates such as Guy Smith and Steven Kane of Great Britian, as well as Andy Soucek of Spain, Maxime Soulet of Belgium, and Vince Abril of Monaco.

This year, the six drivers will be taking part in the Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup with second generation Bentley Team M-Sport Continental GT3s.  Although this is Bentley’s fifth season at the race, the team is set to complete the entire Intercontinental GT Challenge for the first time.

Jules Gounon

Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, Brian Gush, comments: “Consistency is key for endurance racing so to have five of our drivers back to continue their long-standing relationships with us allows us to get stronger year-on-year and is testament to the loyalty within our team.”

Brian adds, “Jules [Gounon] has shown that he has the pace and maturity to fit in to a leading team, despite only being 22 years old, and we’re looking forward to supporting him as he develops his career. We’re all looking forward to arriving in Bathurst in February and getting 2018 underway.”

Bentley Motorsports 2018 season will begin at Bathurst 12 Hours, and will be completed with the present day Continental GT3, in an effort to conform to current regulatory standards.  The debut of the teams all-new Continental GT3, based on the new Continental GT production car, will take place in Monza at the opening round of the Blancpain GT Series and will also be used to complete the Intercontinental GT Challenge races at Spa-Francorchamps, Laguna Seca and Suzuka.

The All New Tesla Roadster

Tesla Motors will soon be producing an all new Roadster for 2020, which based on the announced specifications, should give the best lot of supercars a good run for their money.  The launch of the new Roadster will also go hand in hand to fulfill Tesla Chief Executive, Elon Musk’s dream of creating the best cars in the world, quoted as saying “the point of this is to give the hardcore smackdown to gasoline cars.”

Not long after Mr. Musk presented his groundbreaking electric semi-truck; an all new super sports car was shown on stage to steal the spotlight.  Tesla claims the new roadster will go from not to sixty in under two seconds, and complete a quarter mile in just under nine. An exact top speed has not yet been announced, though, 250 miles per hour is a conservative estimate, easily placing the Roadster among today’s highly coveted Hyper Cars.  Yet, the Roadster’s most unique feature is that it will seat four individuals in relative comfort. Cargo room will be plentiful in this convertible, and a 620 mile range powered by a 200-kilowatt hour battery pack is nothing short of incredible.  A starting price of $200,000 USD also makes for class leading value, feel free to reserve yours for a deposit of $50,000 right now.

The original Tesla Roadster was produced from 2008-2012, and was instrumental in the fact that it was the first highway legal all-electric vehicle powered by a lithium ion battery.  The original roadster was also the first all-electric vehicle to travel over 200 miles on a single charge.  Production figures were just under 2,500, and were most popular in continental Europe.

For more information on the all new Tesla Roadster visit:  www.tesla.com/roadster

Images courtesy of:  Tesla, Inc.

The Third Annual Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award

Celebrating their third year, the Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award, also know as the leading motoring accolade for the most outstanding classic car, will be officially making its debut in Paris sometime in February 2018.  While it may be some time before the winner is declared; we can still share with you the eight classic cars that were worthy enough to be acknowledged as this year’s chosen contenders.

These eight selected concours “Best of Show” winners are credited as the most revered in the motoring world of today.  On Thursday, February 8th, 2018, The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award winner will be announced at a private dinner at The Peninsula Hotel in Paris.  The private dinner will also be taking place during the celebrated Rétromobile event, where international motoring connoisseurs gather each year, hence making the night a very sociable and enjoyable one for those in attendance.  In addition, as the only five-star luxury property in the city that incorporates an underground garage, there will be an exclusive reveal after-party for additional guests following the private announcement in the lower level of the hotel.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award to Paris in 2018, which I trust will further promote this distinguished honour on the concours circuit,” said The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, who as well as being the co-founder of the award and Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, is also the owner and operator of The Peninsula Hotels.

“Concours d’Elegance originated in Paris in the 17^th century, and we are delighted to bring the modern equivalent back to this beautiful city; a fitting venue for such a distinct honour,” said Sir Michael Kadoorie. “The award recognises excellence in masterful craftsmanship, attention to detail, tradition and ingenuity, and we look forward to celebrating the world’s most exceptional motor car at this prestigious event.”

The below lists the finalists that are under this year’s consideration for The Third Annual Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award:

• 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider by Touring: Amelia Island Concours de Sport

Being one of the most technologically advanced cars of its time, this impeccably restored vehicle is apart of the same class as the most sought-after Alfa models of the 1930s.  Based off the oppressive racing version and featuring coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, this elegant Alfa Romeo is one of just seven Touring Spiders that were assembled with the long-wheelbase 2.9-litre chassis.

• 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Cabriolet by Vignale, design by Giovanni Michelotti: The Gran Turismo Ferrari Cup, Cavallino Classic

Based on a model constructed mainly for competition, this small-bodied, right-hand-drive, open-top Ferrari was constructed for the Portuguese Ambassador in France, Jorge da Cunha d’Almeida Araujo. Its uncomplicated charm and elegance was actualized by Vignale, after a sketch drawn by consultant stylist Giovanni Michelotti.

• 1936 Bugatti Type 57 SC Coupé Atlantic, design by Jean Bugatti: Chantilly Arts & Elégance Richard Mille

Powered by a supercharged engine and also considered by many to be the first supercar ever made, the iconic rivets on this automobile penned by Jean Bugatti, Ettore’s son, are a result of the inability of the magnesium-alloy body panels to be welded for fear of them catching fire. Under the care of the Mullin Automotive Museum, this Bugatti Coupé, which was limited to only three models, remains one of the most elegant crown jewels on the automotive circuit.

• 1957 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Speciale Prototipo by Bertone, design by Franco Scaglione: Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

The extraordinary dark red streamlined prototype was shown at the Turin Motor Show in 1957. Its historical calibre lies in its famous place as a link between Franco Scaglione’s legendary Alfa Romeo Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica design studies and the production version of the Giulietta Sprint Speciale models that followed. Complementing the fluid body lines was a highly-tuned, lightweight aluminium 1.3-litre engine that can distribute 100 horsepower.

• 1933/35 Lancia Astura Aerodinamica Coupé by Castagna: Concours of Elegance UK

Lancias were brilliantly engineered cars and Vittorio Mussolini, son of Benito, wanted to enter their latest model, the V8-engined Astura, in racing. He then ordered a body built by Castagna, which was initially prepared for an Alfa Romeo, to replace the original body fitted on this car after having suitably modified the vehicle’s chassis. This one-off was reborn following its seven-year restoration and has just recently won several awards on the concours circuit.

• 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet by Pinin Farina: Goodwood Cartier Style et Luxe Concours d’Elegance

The 250 series established the Ferrari legend. Berlinettas and spiders completely dominated racing, whilst coupés and cabriolets were sold to prominent clients who enjoyed their Gran Turismo capabilities and did not mind displaying their wealth. Pinin Farina had become Ferrari’s favourite coachbuilder and penned this supremely elegant open two seater that was a perfect match for the music of its 3-litre, V12 engine.

• 1929 Mercedes-Benz S Roadster by Barker: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

This stunning car is the result of German engineering combined with British craftsmanship. Built together with lightweight tourer coachwork by Barker of London while sporting a Ferdinand Porsche designed 7-litre supercharged engine, it is the vision of the British race car driver Lord Howe; which actually explains the striking Curzon Blue hue (the Howe family colour). It has since been restored by it’s current owner to the exact specifications of the noble family.

• 1964 ATS 2500 GTS Coupé by Allemano, design by Franco Scaglione: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

The ATS is the first Italian GT mid-engined car. It was developed by ex-Ferrari engineers who had left after a row with Mrs Ferrari. In correlation they ran a Formula One team but results were not up to the expectations and backers soon retired. Between seven and ten road cars were all that was produced, each sporting tasteful Allemano coachwork, of which this is an even rarer lightweight version with a 2.5-litre, V8 engine.

This year’s Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award will highlight the Best of Show winners that are under consideration by 24 highly-renowned motorcar authorities, famed designers and prominent celebrities, including acclaimed TV show host, Jay Leno; H.R.H. Prince Michael of Kent; Chief Creative Officer at Pinin Farina, Fabio Filippini; Ken Okuyama; Formula One race cars and McLaren F1 road car designer, Gordon Murray; Scuderia Ferrari Formula One racer, Jean Todt; Ralph Lauren; Chief Design Officer of Mercedes-Benz and all brands of Daimler AG, Gordon Wagener; and many more…

For more information visit:  Peninsula.com

The Epitome of Speed and Elegance: 2018 Aston Martin Vantage

For the past several decades, the Aston Martin Vantage has become one of the nameplate’s most iconic and refined models ever produced by the British Marque.  And this statement is not any less accurate when referring to the all new 2018 model. When first conceptualized in 1951 on a high-output engine option for the DB2, the Vantage promptly established itself as its own unique model.

The new Vantage sports car displays a bold yet timeless vibe with an athletic, predatory stance, which is evident from the minimal front and rear overhangs.  The car’s robust flanks and generous haunches convey an unalloyed adroitness and vivacity that is inherent within the sports car.  Furthermore, the new head and tail lights add a new signature concept to the Vantage, giving it a conspicuous road presence and a strong individual personality within its growing model range.

The sports car’s cockpit introduces sharp, focused lines that reflect a more dynamic and vigorous nature to the vehicle’s outer appearance.  When stepping into the Vantage, a high waist interior theme and lower driving position welcomes you; this offers the driver and its passenger a more engaging driving experience with improved headroom when compared with the Vantage’s predecessors.  The interior also includes extensive storage space behind the seats along with ample double-tier storage areas.

Under the hood of the new Vantage is Aston Martin’s potent new alloy, 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine.  It was placed as far back in the chassis as possible to find the perfect 50:50 weight distribution.  The high performance and high efficiency V8 engine has a dry weight of 1530kg, in which provides the car with an overwhelming power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios.

This new Vantage deploys it’s massive power and torque to the rear wheels through a rear-mounted ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.  Achieving 0 to 60mph in just 3.5 seconds and offering a top speed of 195mph, the new Vantage utilizes a series of integrated electronic systems to deliver maximum control to the driver, much to his/her enjoyment.  These said electronic systems include Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Torque Vectoring.

The chassis of the car is an enhance version of the DB11’s bonded aluminum structured chassis, whereas 70 percent of the Vantage’s structure components are newly added.  The design integrates balance, strength, sharpness, weight efficiency, and handling flexibility into the new Vantage as its the top priority.

Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman said: “New Vantage has the most powerful and provocative design language ever seen in a Vantage. A hunter, light in weight and is therefore light in it’s visual language. It is based on a single line under tension, inspired by the DB10 and the extreme track-only Aston Martin Vulcan, blending the two unique design languages together into a form that is sculpted, dynamic, pure and elemental”.

The Vantage features an amplitude of first-rate standard equipment such as keyless start/stop, tyre pressure monitoring system, parking distance display, park assist and front and rear parking sensors.  The car also includes an In-Car Entertainment system, of which is controlled and viewed via a centrally mounted 8 LCD screen, that consists of the Aston Martin Audio System, iPod, iPhone and USB playback, Bluetooth audio & phone streaming, and an integrated satellite navigation system.

The new Vantage features an Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff), which links itself to the car’s electronic stability control system in order to comprehend its performability, and then responds accordingly to transfer the engine’s power towards the relevant wheel.  This in turn boosts straight-line stability and its cornering performance to give the driver a heightened level of confidence to fully explore and bring out the car’s true capabilities to it’s maximum potential.

With the assimilation of the engine, transmission, E-Diff, Dynamic Torque Vectoring, Dynamic Stability Control, Adaptive Damping and the electric power steering systems, the new Vantage has each mode better improve every area of the car to become one.  This allows the vehicle to gain agility and enhanced responsiveness, thereby achieving a sharper, more vocal, and exciting nature for the Vantage.  The Vantage generates a significant level of downforce thanks to its new side gills, which has been integrated into the body surface and drains air pressure out from the front wheel arches, and the distinct askew rear deck lid.

Just as you would expect from Aston Martin, the new Vantage demonstrates a high degree of craftsmanship from their flawless paintwork and lavish Alcantara & leather upholstery to the high quality tactile natural materials that were used for levels of finish.  The customizability on the new vantage is quite extensive as it generously provides an array of options to choose from.  These include forged alloy wheels in a variety of finishes, Sports Plus Collection (comprising Sports Plus seats and Sports steering wheel), carbon fibre interior and exterior detailing with a Premium Audio System.

Aston Martin President & Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andy Palmer said: “It speaks volumes for the outgoing Vantage that it is the single most successful model in Aston Martin’s history. Creating a worthy successor has been a challenge to relish and a huge source of motivation. I’m enormously excited by what we’ve created: a new Vantage that’s more explicit in looks and intent, wrapping heart-pounding performance and dazzling dynamics into an everyday usable package. A true sports car with a sharper look and a keener dynamic edge, the new Vantage is the Aston Martin pure driving machine enthusiasts have been waiting for.”

With deliveries scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2018, the new Vantage is currently on sale for a recommended retail price of £120,900 in the UK, €154,000 in Germany and $149,995 in the USA.

For more information visit:  Global.AstonMartin.com/en-gb/models/new-vantage

Photography by: Drew Gibson

Jaguar Land Rover Goes All Electric For 2020

With the opening of the Tech Fest event in London, Jaguar CEO, Dr. Ralf Speth had an announcement concerning the future of mobility for their vehicles.  Ralf stated that the luxury car brand will be incorporating electrical products to their lineup; examples include luxury sedans and dynamic SUVs, as well as plug-in hybrid & mild hybrid vehicles for the sports coupés.  Furthermore, Jaguar is going to be putting their first ever electric performance SUV, the Jaguar I-PACE, for sale in 2018.

During the Tech Fest event, Jaguar demonstrated their sheer determination and commitment towards electrical performance with the unveiling of a fully-restored and newly modified plug-in electric 3.8-litre 1968 Jaguar E-Type Roadster, which is now known as the “E-Type Zero”.  When compared with the classic Jaguar E-Type, the all-new E-Type Zero is far faster and swifter; achieving 100km/h a full second quicker, as well as covering approximately 170 miles from just a single charge.  Jaguar Land Rover’s recently reshaped E-Type Zero is not only a symbol for their future electric performance plans, but also a tribute to classic supercar enthusiasts.

The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (also known as ACEA) recorded the demand for alternative fuel-based cars around the globe from the second-quarter of 2016 with statistics in the past three months.  When the data was compared, it was discovered that in those past three months the increase in demand for alternative fuel-based cars went up 38 percent.  In addition to the alternative fuels that are provided for plug-in electric cars and plug-in hybrids, there is also vehicles power-driven by LPG, propane, or natural gas.

The current demand for battery electric and plug-in hybrid cars have been on the rise as indicated by the surge that happened last quarter, when the demand escalated and reached 1.2 percent of their overall car sales throughout Europe.  Based off data taken in Europe from ACEA, the number of electric car sales hit 62,367 and plug-in hybrid sales hit 59,813.  Furthermore, when mild hybrids were included in the data, the sales reached a total of 213,252.  This result proved that the demand for alternative fuel-based cars is becoming even more sought after, especially in the European continent where automotive development and manufacturing is constantly evolving at a breakneck speed.

For more information visit:  JaguarUSA.com/electrification

McLaren 720s Named Performance Car of The Year

Earlier this month the newly introduced $280,000 McLaren 720s was awarded the prestigious title of 2018 Performance Car of the Year by Road & Track.  Heralded as a perfect blend of performance and unrivaled luxury, the 720s, has distinguished itself from all others in its class.  The first model in McLaren’s second generation Super Series was placed up against its Italian and German rivals, such as the v10 Lamborghini Huracán Performante and the v8 Mercedes-AMG GT R, to name just a few.

“The McLaren 720S is the friendliest, least intimidating supercar I’ve ever experienced… it’s more than what’s new in supercars; it is also what’s best, what’s fastest, what’s most capable. As such, the 720S was the easy winner of our vote,”  concluded the editors of Road & Track.

Commenting on the awards, Tony Joseph, President, McLaren Automotive North America said: “We believe that the McLaren 720S is a revolutionary step forward, not only for our brand, but for the supercar segment. To be named Performance Car of the Year by Road & Track is a great validation of the car and its capabilities. From the stunning new interpretation of our design language to its comfort and usability on the street without sacrificing any performance on the track—the 720S is a special car in the McLaren supercar line-up.”

First unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the 720s instantly captivated supercar fans with its striking design reminiscent of the fabled McLaren F1.  Statistics on the 720s include a fighter jet style cockpit, a 710 brake horsepower 4.0 liter v8 engine, as well as a unique driver engagement system developed through chassis refinements via McLaren’s all new Proactive Chassis Control II.

For more information on McLaren please visit:  cars.mclaren.com

Electric Luxury: The New Range Rover

As of this month, Land Rover has just announced the revamp of their time honored flagship model, that not only received an elegant face lift but was also given an option that is more than skin deep.

The announcement came with the addition of a plugin-hybrid model to stand hand in hand with Jaguar-Land Rover’s future electric plans for all models in their line.  The plugin-hybrid Range Rover will achieve a combined fuel economy of an impressive 101mpg, and an all electric range of 31 miles.  Unique highlights for the 2018 model year also include harmonious updates which have sharpened both exterior and interior looks, along with cutting edge technological updates.

Since the beginning of the Range Rover, 50 years ago, the quintessential luxury four by four has been the go to vehicle for those who prefer not to switch vehicles when traveling from their estate in the countryside to the posh streets of Belgravia and Kensington.

“Our customers are very clear about what they want from any new Range Rover. ‘Don’t change it, just make it better,’ they tell us, so everything we’ve done has been about enhancing our flagship SUV. After nearly 50 years the fourth generation Range Rover is the finest so far, ensuring the original luxury SUV remains the choice for discerning customers the world over.”

Gerry McGovern, Chief Design Officer, Land Rover

Today, the all new Range Rover has continued to evolve with the intention of always being the finest in all around automotive capability.  Thanks to newly designed seats, comfort features now include 24 way adjustable front seats, that offer a new depth of foam padding along with heated armrests to keep your elbows and forearms warm on those chilly winter days.  Stepping in the backset, occupants will notice a complete redesign which includes a more spacious layout, with no effect to the RR’s boot space.

The sumptuous cabin now includes a spa like treatment with 25 setting massage functions for the seats, including a much desired hot stone option.  For those of us who work while being chauffeured or travel with family, seventeen connection points are at our disposal, including USB, HDMI, 12 volt, and domestic plug sockets; in addition 4G Wi-Fi awaits for up to 8 different devices.

Interior elegance has been updated through the unwavering commitment by LR’s focus on integration of some of the market’s most advanced and easy to use infotainment systems, which are engineered by JLR in house.  Codenamed ‘Blade’, the Touch Pad Duo merges two 10 inch screens to form a control panel in the Range Rover’s centre console.

The enlarged seats now offer unsurpassed comfort in the segment.  The outstanding updates include heated and cooled seats with significantly extended zones (heated arm, calf rests, and foot).  Increased recline functionality, along with a smartphone app for added functionality, complete the tech savvy interior comfort updates.

The plugin-hybrid’s efficient powertrain offers sustainable performance through the combination of a four cylinder petrol engine and a (85KW) electric motor, allowing for 31 miles of all electric drive.  The result is 640Nm of torque and 404PS of total power delivered via the full time four-wheel drive system, with a not to sixty time of 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 137 miles per hour.  Emiting only 64g/km on the NEDC combined cycle, Range Rover owners can honestly experience zero-emission driving.

“The new Range Rover takes our luxury SUV to new heights, delivering enhanced refinement, luxury and all-terrain capability. The new PHEV powertrain isn’t simply a no-compromise solution – it builds on the traditions of our flagship SUV and delivers heightened refinement and comfort with impressive performance and efficiency.”

Nick Collins, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar Land Rover

Concerned about charge time? With rapid charging the 13.1kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery can be fully charged in under 3 hours using a 32 amp wall box.  Additional assurances are given through an eight-year, 100,000-mile, 70 per cent state of health warranty for the Plugin-Hybrid Range Rover’s battery.

Although the all new Plugin-Hybrid model is intriguing, those of us who enjoy the most performance out of our Range Rover may want to still opt for the range topping SV Autobiogrpahy dynamic.  Range Rover’s most powerful production vehicle to date is powered by an all petrol supercharged v8 making 565PS, and delivers a not to sixty time of nearly 5 seconds flat.

The updated Range Rover will be built at the firm’s Solihull facility, and is available for order now, with first quarter deliveries scheduled for the end of 2017 depending on region.