FEATURES

FEATURES – Latest automotive guides from our team of experts.

admin08/13/2019
2,074

The all-new BMW 330e Sedan

The all-new BMW 330e Sedan

The all-new BMW 330e Sedan – Sportier and more efficient than ever thanks to state-of-the-art BMW eDrive Technology: the new BMW 330e Sedan.

A combination of peerless dynamics and exemplary efficiency defines the character of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan. And now the addition to the range of drive solutions of a plug-in hybrid system brings an extra, particularly future-focused angle to the new sports sedan’s core attributes.

The latest generation of BMW eDrive technology teams up with a four-cylinder petrol engine to significantly enhance the sporting prowess of the new BMW 330e Sedan (whose worldwide market launch is now underway) and deliver an even richer electric driving experience.

Making its debut appearance in a BMW, the standard-fitted XtraBoost raises the system output of the plug-in hybrid to a maximum 215 kW/292 hp. The lightning-fast responses of the drive system headline the new BMW 330e Sedan’s driving characteristics.

Added to which, its electric range is over 50 per cent greater than that of its predecessor; 66 kilometres (41 miles)* is possible with zero local emissions.

Fuel consumption and emissions are down by more than 15 per cent on the levels of the predecessor model – to 1.9 – 1.6 litres per 100 kilometres (148.7 – 176.6 mpg imp)* and 43 – 37 grams of per kilometre*.

In the new BMW 330e Sedan, the intelligently controlled interplay of electric motor and combustion engine reaches a whole new level. The electrification of the powertrain contributes more than ever not only to increasing efficiency but also to a distinctive form of driving pleasure.

The plug-in hybrid system pools the abilities of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and output of 135 kW/184 hp with the talents of an electric motor, which generates peak output of 83 kW/113 hp. Together, the two drive sources produce maximum system torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft).

Premiere in the new BMW 330e Sedan: XtraBoost for maximum dynamic performance.

A brand-new feature – and included as standard in the new BMW 330e Sedan – is XtraBoost, which reveals the car at its most dynamic. The driver can quickly bring XtraBoost into play by activating SPORT mode with the Driving Experience Control switch.

The all-new BMW 330e Sedan

The all-new BMW 330e Sedan

The all-new BMW 330e Sedan

A vigorous stamp on the accelerator uncorks an additional 30 kW/40 hp on top of the combined 185 kW/252 hp already generated by the combination of electric motor and combustion engine – and XtraBoost keeps it on tap for up to 10 seconds.

The result is the signature powertrain character of the BMW 3 Series Sedan, comprising (for the first time in a hybrid model from BMW) incredibly sporty yet also precise accelerator response, and a specific shift program for the eight-speed Steptronic transmission including engine-braking downshifts.

The instant-impact XtraBoost delivers a significantly more intense experience of acceleration than a conventionally powered vehicle with comparable output could offer. For example, if the driver suddenly puts their foot down hard from 20 km/h (12 mph), in as little as a second the new BMW 330e Sedan accelerates with around twice the vigour of a car powered solely by a combustion engine.

Within three seconds, it opens up a car’s-length gap. XtraBoost can still be accessed with the high-voltage battery at minimum charge, as well as in kickdown and with the transmission selector lever in the M or S position.

The new BMW 330e Sedan sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.9 seconds en route to a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The driving experience is accompanied by a model-specific and emotionally engaging drive system note, which also finds its way into the interior. And so the new BMW 330e Sedan vividly showcases its sporty and dynamic side, blended with the proven qualities of a plug-in hybrid car.

Pure-electric driving at up to 140 km/h (87 mph).

In the HYBRID driving mode, the new BMW 330e Sedan can hit speeds of up to 110 km/h (68 mph) on electric power alone – an increase of 30 km/h (19 mph) over its predecessor.

And ELECTRIC mode opens the door to locally emission-free driving at 140 km/h (87 mph), up from 120 km/h (75 mph). Hybrid-specific standard features of the new BMW 330e Sedan include acoustic pedestrian protection.

When driving on electric power, an exterior speaker system generates an unmistakable sound created specifically for electrified BMWs. At low speeds, the drive system’s bespoke note exudes aural presence, without impinging on the acoustic comfort of those on board.

The new BMW 330e Sedan’s electric motor is integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission, saving space. Intelligent design allows the hybrid-specific version of the transmission to be no more than 15 millimetres longer than corresponding variants for conventionally powered variants of the new BMW 3 Series Sedan.

Power generation by means of braking energy recuperation, where the electric motor plays the role of a generator, works particularly effectively. The electric energy channelled into the high-voltage battery either in this way or when plugged into the power grid also feeds the 12-volt on-board power supply. All of which renders a combustion engine-driven generator surplus to requirements and further enhances overall system efficiency.

High range and efficiency bring tax benefits.

With a gross energy content of 12.0 kWh, the lithium-ion high-voltage battery in the new BMW 330e Sedan enables an increase in electric range of more than 50 per cent over its predecessor – to 59 – 66 kilometres (37 – 41 miles)*.

Meanwhile, the second generation of the plug-in hybrid sports sedan cuts fuel consumption and emissions by over 15 per cent to 1.9 – 1.6 litres per 100 kilometres (148.7 – 176.6 mpg imp)* and 43 – 37 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The combined-cycle electric power consumption of the new BMW 330e Sedan is 15.4 – 14.8 kWh per 100 kilometres.

With its low CO2emissions and long electric range, the new BMW 330e Sedan fulfils all the requirements for reduced company car tax in Germany, where only half the gross list price is taken as a basis in determining the benefit of kind for private use.

The high-voltage battery in the new BMW 330e Sedan is mounted under the rear seats, while the petrol tank sits over the rear axle. This means the plug-in hybrid’s cargo-carrying ability is only slightly reduced, and load capacity of 375 litres can be expanded as required thanks to the 40 : 20 : 40 split/folding rear-seat backrests.

Customers opting for the plug-in hybrid model can choose from virtually the full list of options otherwise available for the new BMW 3 Series Sedan.

The new BMW 330e Sedan is also offered in Advantage, Sport Line, Luxury Line or M Sport form as an alternative to basic specification. And it can be ordered with features including Adaptive M suspension with variable sport steering and M Sport brakes.

From November 2019, the new BMW 330e Sedan will also be available with a trailer coupling with electrically pivoting hitch ball. The maximum trailer load for the plug-in hybrid model is 750 kilograms.

Auxiliary heating and air conditioning as standard.

The full selection of innovative comfort- and safety-optimising driver assistance systems – from the Driving Assistant Professional with steering and lane control assistant to the Parking Assistant including reversing assistant – is also available.

Standard specification for the new BMW 330e Sedan includes preconditioning of the interior with the heating or air conditioning.

Energy stored in the high-voltage battery is used to power the auxiliary heating. In low outside temperatures, this means the interior can be warmed up with user-friendly ease before getting into the car, even when the battery charge is low.

This interior preconditioning function also allows the interior to be cooled in higher ambient temperature.
admin08/09/2019
2,627

Bentley’s pivotal 1939 Corniche rises from the ashes

1939 Bentley Corniche

Bentley’s pivotal 1939 Corniche rises from the ashes – Bentley has re-created a long-lost car from its illustrious past that provides a crucial link in the history of its most important models.

The ground-up rebuild of the only 1939 Corniche ever made highlights the marque’s pedigree of design and technological innovation, the breadth of skills within Mulliner’s bespoking division, and connects the fabled Embiricos 4¼ Litre and R Type Continental.

The only car of its type now in existence thanks to the skills of Mulliner, the Corniche was conceived to be a high performance version of the new MkV saloon, itself a technological advance that was due to be launched in October 1939.

The styling of the Corniche was a radical step forward from the traditional Bentleys of the 1920s and ‘30s, introducing ‘Streamlining’ to help deliver greater speed and performance, and heavily influenced post-war models from the R Type Continental right through to the current Continental GT.

The original Corniche was lost in France in 1939 at the outbreak of World War II. It was extensively damaged in a traffic accident whilst undergoing road tests in France in August 1939. Sent for repairs, the chassis made it home to the Bentley plant in Derby, but the bodywork was destroyed in a bombing raid on Dieppe later in 1939 and was never seen again.

Until now.

The project was originally started several years ago by volunteers from the WO Bentley Memorial Foundation and the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation, but was brought in-house in February 2018 under the watchful eye of Chairman and Chief Executive Adrian Hallmark, who asked for it to be completed in 2019 to celebrate Bentley’s centenary.

Adrian Hallmark disclosed that the Corniche was a clear step in Bentley’s design language which is evident when set aside the later and now iconic R Type Continental. It is a pivotal car in the history of Bentley, demonstrating that even then, this great British marque was at the cutting edge of design and technology.

“Mulliner’s stunning recreation of the Corniche clearly demonstrates our skill in restoring the greats from Bentley’s back catalogue as well as making beautiful personalised modern Bentleys.”

The project naturally fell to the Mulliner division, where since the 1970s one-off cars have been built for discerning collectors and Royalty, including two State Limousines manufactured in 2002. Today production models are adapted and built to particular customers’ exacting personal specifications.

As Mulliner’s first historic car project, the Corniche has demonstrated the full breadth of the division’s coachbuilding and restoration skills and capabilities.

Using only the original technical drawings and the skills of the men and women of Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house bespoke and coachbuilding division, this unique Corniche has been rebuilt in Crewe using original Corniche and MkV mechanical components and a completely re-made body, identical in every detail to the original.

“It’s been a fantastic team effort, We have highly skilled craftsmen within Mulliner and around the rest of Bentley Motors, and they all have massive pride in what they’ve achieved with this car.”
Stefan Sielaff, Design Director,Bentley and Director of Mulliner

The Corniche will make its first public appearance at Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace in September and will join Bentley’s Heritage fleet, which already includes WO Bentley’s 8 Litre and the Birkin Team Blower, to be used and exhibited at events around the world.

Resurrecting an icon

Many of the parts that had been produced to make further Corniche models were kept until the early 1970s before being sold off to specialists and enthusiasts. Then, in 2001, automotive historian and former Bentley director Ken Lea decided to try to use original parts as the basis for a recreation of the Corniche.

The project was based in Derby, with volunteers gathering information and parts to assemble the chassis. In 2008, with the project out of money, Bentley Motors provided an injection of funds, and work started on the ash frame and aluminium bodywork with coachbuilders Ashley & James in Lymington, Hampshire. The body was created from the outline drawings given to the project by the family of the car’s original designer, George Paulin.

The project continued to make slow progress until it was brought in-house to Mulliner at Bentley Motors at the request of new Chairman and CEO Adrian Hallmark.

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche crash

1939 Bentley Corniche crash

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

1939 Bentley Corniche

The project to re-create the Corniche was overseen by a team of four: Ken Lea; Robin Peel, Head of Heritage; Ian Broomhall, Mulliner Operations Manager and Glyn Davies, Mulliner Special Projects leader.

Many team members from Mulliner and across the wider Bentley Motors business dedicated their personal time to work on the Corniche, and staff from other divisions joined in.

The Mulsanne body-in-white team, where panels are still hand-formed, helped with final detailed finessing of panels; the paint laboratory spent many hours producing colour samples of the main body colour of Imperial Maroon and the side flash of Heather Grey from the limited descriptions available; Head of Interior Design Darren Day and his team produced CAD designs for the seats and door trims derived from detailed historical research; and the Mulliner trim team worked from the designs to create a period-appropriate interior in typical Vanvooren style, using the correct Connolly Vaumol hide, West of England cloth and the carpet from a roll discovered stored away on site.

In the Mulliner workshop, Mulliner Master Carpenter Gary Bedson devised a steam booth to allow him to bend sections of wood for the interior window surrounds, often spending over an hour wreathed in steam just to attain a few degrees more curvature.

Other team members worked hard to re-create the front grille, using CAD to analyse airflow and design each individual slat, which were then hand-formed by skilled metalworkers over a period of three months.

Six Mulliner apprentices, one of whom even created an authentic tool tray for the boot of the Corniche, were also involved throughout the car’s time with Mulliner.

Every aspect of the project received Mulliner attention. From the special paint mixes – named Imperial Maroon and Heather Grey – to the unique interior trim, the accessories such as the tool tray and even the Mulliner tread plates on the door shuts were created from scratch.

The original 1939 Corniche

In the late-1930s, Greek racer André Embiricos commissioned a sporting Bentley, based on the old 4¼ Litre chassis. It was styled by talented designer Georges Paulin, and built by French coachbuilder Pourtout. Although privately commissioned, it was much-admired and secretly encouraged among Bentley engineers and management, who were convinced that the factory should produce a more sporting version of the forthcoming MkV saloon.

It was agreed that the Corniche should be built to investigate the idea. It would have a lightweight chassis, built from thinner-than-standard gauge steel, fitted with a tuned version of the MkV engine matched to an overdrive gearbox created to suit. The Corniche was built as a collaboration between Bentley and third parties such as Georges Paulin, the French car designer who designed the bodywork and Carrosserie Vanvooren in Paris who made the bodywork.

The car was completed by May 1939 and tried out at Brooklands race circuit, where it achieved well over 100mph – a significant improvement on the standard MkV. Streamlining had only just started to be adopted on production cars of the period, so the smooth lines of the Corniche were ahead of their time. It had at least been recognised that the huge upright radiator of a traditional Bentley adversely affected the top speed, and the smoothed nose of the Corniche was a direct reaction to that understanding.

Pillarless Body

The pillarless body, with front and rear-hinged doors was also extremely innovative for the period, and the complicated curves of the front wings and the long sweeps of the rears were a long way from the typical designs of the period. In staid 1930s Britain, this was pure fantasy-made-real.

After Brooklands, the Corniche went to France for road testing, but in July 1939 it was damaged by a bus and returned to Vanvooren for repairs and body improvements. When completed, on August 8, it was collected by a Bentley test driver, who headed straight for the Bentley depot at Chateauroux where the testing was based. It was as he neared the HQ that a car pulled in front of the Corniche, causing the Bentley test driver to swerve and hit a tree. The car rolled onto its side, causing extensive damage.

The Corniche was due to be displayed at the Earls Court and Paris motor shows later that year, so there was no time to lose. The body was removed from the chassis, and the chassis returned to Crewe, while the body went to a local repair shop in France.

The Corniche body was eventually completed in France, and transported to Dieppe to be shipped home. However, an administration error at the docks caused a delay, and while the Corniche body was stored waiting to be shipped it was destroyed when Dieppe was heavily bombed during WWII.

Centenary Celebrations

July 10, 2019 marked Bentley’s 100th year – an extraordinary milestone achieved by only a few companies. A year-long series of special activities have been taking place, with celebrations at events around the world. They showcase Bentley’s motoring evolution over the last 100 years, highlighting its global success today and the exciting future of innovation ahead.
admin07/23/2019
2,522

The Powerful Elegance Audi Q3 Sportback

Static photo, Colour: pulse orange, dew silver

The Powerful Elegance Audi Q3 Sportback – The Audi Q3 Sportback syndicates the strong presence and versatile daily convenience of an SUV with the sporty elegance and agile handling of a coupé. This makes it the first compact crossover of the Audi brand.

Low roofline, muscular body: the design

The Audi Q3 Sportback stands for strength and precision to an equal degree, and reflects this in all design facts. The black grille of the octagonal Single frame is strongly three-dimensional in design, and this makes it particularly sporty. The same applies for the trapezoidal air inlets and the expressive bumper with its flat blade.

The coupé-like passenger cabin acts as a contrast to the distinctive attachments, which are painted in contrasting colors and thus emphasize the SUV character. The low roofline provides way to flat D‑pillars and ends in a roof edge spoiler. As a result, the Audi Q3 Sportback seems much longer than its sister model Q3.

In addition, the SUV-coupé is almost three centimeters flatter, and thus has a more muscular appearance. Above the wheels, tough contours draw attention to the quattro drive, which comes as standard with most engines. Many light and shadow effects arise on the plastic-formed rear. The low window, flanked by aero trims, and the sporty bumper, which takes up the look of the air inlets, emphasize the width of the Audi Q3 Sportback.

The reversing lights contribute to this as well: they run inwards in a tapered shape, just like the flat headlights. Audi delivers the latter in three versions up to Matrix LED technology, whose adaptive high beam intelligently illuminates the road as best suits the driving situation.

Sporty on and off the road: the suspension

The Audi Q3 Sportback offers driving fun on several terrains. In the city, on long-haul roads, or on easy terrain – the compact crossover is a dynamic all-rounder. It features progressive steering as standard, whose gear ratio becomes increasingly direct as the steering angle increases, and the sport suspension.

On demand, the suspension is accessible with damper control, which further increases the range between dynamism and comfort. Depending on the driving situation, road condition, and personal preferences, the driver can vary the car’s features via the standard dynamic handling system, Audi drive select, in six profiles, including the offroad mode.

In addition to the engine and transmission set-up, this system also influences the electronically adjustable shock absorbers and the steering assistance. As an option, the hill descent control can offer support: it keeps the speed selected by the driver constant on a rise greater than 6%.

TFSI, TDI, S tronic, quattro: the drive

For the market unveiling in Europe, a gasoline and a diesel engine are available for selection for the Audi Q3 Sportback. With 169 kW (230 metric hp), the 2.0 TFSI is the most powerful engine (Audi Q3 Sportback 45 TFSI quattro S tronic: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km : 7.7 – 7.3 (30.5 – 32.2 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 174 – 166 (280.0 – 267.2 g/mi)). The 2.0 TDI has an output of 110 kW (150 metric hp) (Audi Q3 Sportback 35 TDI S tronic: Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 4.9 – 4.7 (48.0 – 50.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 129 – 123 (207.6 – 197.9 g/mi)).

Shortly after market unveiling, it will also be available as a manual transmission with a quattro drive. Additional engines will follow in the course of the year, including a more powerful diesel and an entry-level gasoline engine, which works together with a 48 V mild-hybrid system. During slowing, it recovers energy; during acceleration from low speeds, it supports the engine. In real-life driving, it can save up to 0.4 l of fuel per 100 km (62.1 mi).

In the top engines, the quattro all-wheel drive takes on the job of force transmission as standard. Its central component is a hydraulic multi-plate clutch on the rear axle. Its electronic management combines outstanding stability and strong traction with a high level of driving enjoyment. At the limits of performance, the quattro drive works closely together with the wheel-selective torque control, It makes handling even more dynamic and stable by means of gentle brake interventions on the inside wheels with the quattro drive and the inside front wheel with the front drive.

Variable comfort: Interior and space concept

The Audi Q3 Sportback is 4.50 m (14.8 ft) long, 1.84 m (6.0 ft) wide and 1.56 m (5.1 ft) high; its wheelbase measures 2.68 m (8.8 ft). This results in a large and highly variable interior. The back seats offer space for three people. They can be moved 130 mm (5.1 in) longitudinally as standard; their backrests are divided into three sections, and their inclination can be adjusted in seven stages. The volume of the baggage compartment ranges from 530 l (18.7 cu ft) to 1,400 l (49.4 cu ft).

The loading floor can be adjusted to two levels, and the rear shelf is situated beneath it. As an option, Audi will deliver an electric tailgate that can also be opened and closed with a foot motion. The front seats – electrically adjustable and heated on request – offer a sporty position and a high level of comfort. Depending on the equipment, there are sport seats with contrasting stitching and colored stripes along the side panels.

In addition, Alcantara surfaces on the instrument panel and the armrests emphasize the progressive design philosophy. In the dark, the optional contour/ambient lighting package sets lighting accents with its 30 selectable colors.

Static photo, Colour: pulse orange, dew silver

Detail

Static photo, Colour: Pulse orange

Static photo, Colour: Pulse orange

Static photo, Colour: pulse orange

Static photo, Colour: Pulse orange

luggage compartment

Design Sketch

Detail

Interior

Cockpit

Static photo, Colour: dew silver

Static photo, Colour: dew silver

Static photo, Colour: pulse orange, dew silver

Luggage compartment

Interior

Cockpit

Interior

Static photo, Colour: dew silver

Static photo, Colour: dew silver

Detail

Detail

Engine compartment

Detail

Engine compartment

Static photo, Colour: dew silver

Digital world: Displays and operation

The operating and display concept shows how Audi is pushing ahead with digitalization: Even the basic equipment includes a digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch screen diagonal, which the driver controls using the multifunction steering wheel. In the top-of-the-line system, MMI navigation plus, the displays appear in the Audi virtual cockpit, which offers many additional functions.

A touch display measuring 10.1 inches is positioned in the center of the instrument panel. When a function is selected, it emits acoustic feedback. Just like in the brand’s full-size class models, it is surrounded by wide, high-gloss black trim. Together with the air-conditioning control unit located beneath it, the display is ergonomically tilted 10° towards the driver. On demand, the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus is accessible with three selectable layouts, including a particularly dynamic view.

The flat menu structure is complemented by a control unit that uses natural language and can also understand free wordings. Entering a navigation destination and the MMI search are based on free text input. The system identifies the driver’s most frequent destinations based on previous journeys, permitting it to generate suitable suggestions. When doing so, it takes into consideration statistical empirical values regarding the traffic load and time of day.

Comprehensive networking: Infotainment and Audi connect

Together with MMI navigation plus, the online services of Audi connect are made available on board at LTE Advanced speed via a permanently installed SIM card. This includes, for example, online traffic information and the online points of interest service, which complements route guidance with photos, opening hours, and user evaluations. Thanks to the inter-connectivity of the Audi fleet, the Q3 Sportback receives and provides information about parking spaces on the roadside, hazard areas, and speed limits, which are detected via the on-board camera and vehicle sensors.

Traffic light information is a new feature among the Car-to-X services. The vehicle receives data from a city’s traffic computer, as a result of which the driver obtains information about traffic light phases in the Audi virtual cockpit. This allows drivers to adjust their speed pre-emptively, which increases efficiency and improves traffic flow. This offering is initially accessible in individual European cities and will be gradually extended depending on the infrastructure in the urban area.

Another new feature is the cloud-based Amazon voice service Alexa, which streams music and audio books and also offers access to more than 80,000 Alexa Skills. Navigation with Google Earth™ and the hybrid radio, which automatically shifts between FM, DAB and online streaming depending on the reception conditions, also form part of the Audi connect navigation & infotainment plus package. The voice control system uses the detailed knowledge in the cloud to answer the driver’s questions and commands.

The free myAudi App and the Audi smartphone interface ensure interconnectivity between the vehicle and smartphone. This integrates Android and iOS cell phones into the on-board infotainment system. The content of the smartphone is shown in the MMI display via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and no cables are required if the top infotainment system is used with an iPhone. The Audi phone box and the Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with virtual 3D sound round off this comprehensive offer.

Outstanding in any situation: the assist systems

In the Audi Q3 Sportback, four standard systems are used for safety. These include the lane departure warning and the lane change warning. While the former helps the driver to remain in the lane, the latter points out critical situations when changing lanes, such as if there is a vehicle in the blind spot. The series scope in Germany also includes Audi pre sense front. If a head-on collision is imminent, it outputs a visual, acoustic, and haptic warning to the driver.

In an emergency, it causes full braking and starts the Audi pre sense basic safety measures. This involves tightening the front seat belts, closing the windows and the optional sliding roof, and activating the hazard warning lights.

The adaptive cruise assist is a highlight of the optional systems. It takes the burden off the driver during longitudinal and lateral guidance. Ultra-modern systems such as the 360 degree cameras offer assistance with parking and maneuvering. They show the straight surroundings of the SUV coupé on the MMI display, and the driver can choose from several perspectives.

The park assist automatically guides the vehicle into and out of parking spaces. If, for example, the driver wants to back out of an entrance, the back cross traffic assist warns about approaching vehicles that the system classifies as critical.
admin07/19/2019
3,147

BENTLEY’S EXCLUSIVE FLYING SPUR FIRST EDITION TO BE AUCTIONED AT THE ELTON JOHN AIDS FOUNDATION GALA

Bentley Flying Spur First Edition

BENTLEY’S EXCLUSIVE FLYING SPUR FIRST EDITION TO BE AUCTIONED AT THE ELTON JOHN AIDS FOUNDATION GALA – Bentley publicizes the arrival of the Flying Spur First Edition at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Gala, where it will be auctioned in support of the fund-raising charity at the inaugural Mid-summer Party, Johnny Pigozzi’s private and beautiful Villa Dorane in Côte d’Azur, South of France on July 24th.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation Gala features a cocktail reception, a Provençal dinner, a live auction conducted by Simon de Pury, and a performance from Chris Martin of Coldplay. Monies raised at the gala will be used to produce an AIDS-free future.

With astounding attention to detail, sculpted surfaces and intelligent technology the Flying Spur First Edition, limited to just 12 months of production, is rare, collectable and incredibly luxurious. Taking the driver on a journey of constant discovery this collector’s car inspires the imagination with its elegant form and intuitive interaction.

With an acceleration rate of 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds this world-leading sedan delivers extreme power and agility, through an Active All-Wheel Drive System and All Wheel steering that ensures maximum sure-footedness and an engaging driving experience on demand.

Bentley Flying Spur First Edition

Bentley Flying Spur First Edition

Performance is a crucial part of what makes the Flying Spur First Edition one of the world’s most dramatic and captivating cars, delivered via a state-of-the-art W12 engine, with its relaxed yet seemingly endless power delivery. An 8-speed ZF dual-clutch transmission maximises smooth acceleration and quick gearshifts, delivering improved fuel economy and efficiency.

All the individual elements combine to provide an exhilarating experience, a balance of poise and breath-taking pace, whether you are crossing continents as a Grand Tourer or on a city commute.

DA range of totally exclusive features is found in the Flying Spur First Edition. This extraordinary limited edition model will display a First Edition exterior badge and a First Edition Fascia badge – a Union Jack flag.
admin07/15/2019
2,209

Audi goes on Summer Tour with FC Bayern München

Audi goes on Summer Tour with FC Bayern München

Audi goes on Summer Tour with FC Bayern München, German League and Cup title winner –The fourth Audi Summer Tour will take FC Bayern München back to the United States: During its trip to Los Angeles, Houston and Kansas City, the 2019 German League and Cup title winning team will meet with Arsenal London and Real Madrid at two Audi Football Summits and also play against AC Milan. Audi will be at the side of its partner FC Bayern München with numerous activities off the pitch as well.

For the fourth time, Audi is giving its name to and partnering with the Audi Summer Tour of FC Bayern München. From today July 15 to 24, the German record champions will be traveling through the United States as part of their pre-season preparations and encounter with international top-flight clubs from Great Britain, Spain and Italy in three matches.

In addition, players and officials will be involved in numerous Public Relations activities and meetings with fans off the pitch.

Audi And FC Bayern Partnership

Thomas Glas, Head of Sports Marketing at AUDI AG said the Audi Summer Tour is a perfect opportunity to present the Audi brand in an environment that emphasizes sports and emotions. Together with Audi’s partner FC Bayern, they look forward to thrilling football matches and, above all, many meetings with fans and customers in the important U.S. market.

Audi and Bayern have been on the pitch together since 2002. Since 2011, the automotive manufacturer has held a stake in FC Bayern München AG as a strategic partner.

Bayern’s first opponent in Los Angeles on July 17 (8 PM local time) will be the team of Arsenal London. From the West Coast, the tour will move on to Texas where in Houston, on July 20 (7 PM local time), the squad of record Champions League winners Real Madrid will be awaiting FC Bayern München.

Following the two Audi Football Summits, the duel against AC Milan in Kansas City on July 23 (8 PM local time) will conclude the test games. All three matches will be held as part of the worldwide “International Champions Cup” (ICC) tournament series.

The United States of America is one of the most important strategic growth markets of the Audi brand. In 2018, Audi sold about 225,000 cars in the U.S. The United States is also important to FC Bayern München. The club opened an office in New York City in 2014 and by now enjoys organized support by some 150 fan clubs. Barely a week after the team has returned to home base, another highlight of its pre-season preparations is coming up: during the Audi Cup at the Allianz Arena, FC Bayern will be hosting Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid and Fenerbahçe Istanbul on July 30 and 31.
admin07/01/2019
0 2,299

Chevrolet Teams Up with Houston Astros Superstar José Altuve Partners go to bat for youth baseball development

Chevrolet Teams Up with Houston Astros Superstar José Altuve Partners go to bat for youth baseball development

Chevrolet Teams Up with Houston Astros Superstar José Altuve Partners go to bat for youth baseball development – Chevrolet is partnering with Houston Astros second baseman José Altuve to support youth sports development. Altuve will be a Chevy brand ambassador on a variety of projects, including the brand’s long-standing investment in Chevy Youth Baseball and Chevy Youth Baseball clinics.

“CHEVY AND JOSÉ ALTUVE SHARE A LOVE OF BASEBALL, INVOLVEMENT IN OUR COMMUNITIES AND A COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF PLAYERS, THIS PARTNERSHIP HELPS US GIVE BACK TO OUR COMMUNITIES AND SUPPORT YOUTH BASEBALL THROUGH THE CHEVY CARES PLATFORM.”
PAUL EDWARDS, U.S. VICE PRESIDENT, CHEVROLET MARKETING

Chevy Youth Baseball is a community-based program through the Chevy Cares philanthropic initiative that empowers the next generation of Major League hopefuls to stay active, develop self-esteem and learn important life lessons like teamwork. Since 2006, the program has offered nearly 2,000 free clinics and helped 8 million aspiring baseball players through equipment and uniform donations and field refurbishment.

Chevrolet Teams Up with Houston Astros Superstar José Altuve Partners go to bat for youth baseball development

Chevrolet Teams Up with Houston Astros Superstar José Altuve Partners go to bat for youth baseball development

“I OWE EVERYTHING I AM TODAY TO THE SKILLS I LEARNED PLAYING YOUTH BASEBALL, MY PARTNERSHIP WITH CHEVY AND CHEVY YOUTH BASEBALL IS A NATURAL FIT AND A GREAT WAY TO CONTINUE TO CONNECT WITH AND INSPIRE FUTURE ALL-STAR HOPEFULS.”
-JOSÉ ALTUVE, HOUSTON ASTROS SECOND BASEMAN

After the MLB All-Star Game on July 9, Chevy will award the fan-voted Ted Williams Most Valuable Player with his choice of a red 2019 Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss or white 2020 Silverado HD High Country.

This year’s National Chevrolet PLAY BALL reporter, 10-year-old Ethan Morgan, will attend the 2019 MLB All-Star Game on behalf of Chevy and have the opportunity to interview players and coaches during MLB’s All-Star Media Day, as well as at the All-Star Red Carpet ShowTM presented by Chevrolet. PLAY BALL is MLB’s collective effort to encourage youth to participate in baseball- and softball-related activities.

“GETTING YOUTH ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN OUR SPORT IS KEY — YOUNG BASEBALL PLAYERS ARE TOMORROW’S BIG LEAGUE PROSPECTS, DEDICATED PARTNERS AND PLAYERS LIKE CHEVROLET AND JOSÉ ALTUVE HELP US SUPPORT YOUTH BASEBALL DEVELOPMENT IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COUNTRY.”
TONY REAGINS, MLB EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BASEBALL & SOFTBALL DEVELOPMENT

Chevy has been the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball since 2005 and proudly supports 15 MLB teams.