Crossover, News

Vauxhall to investigate Zafira fires

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Vauxhall has confirmed it will take further action following reports of a fire onboard some Vauxhall Zafiras.

The company says it has carried out an investigation following the reports of fire in the area of the heating and ventilation system in a number of Vauxhall Zafira B models launched in 2005, not the current Zafira Tourer.

Vauxhall is keen to point out the number of incidents is 'very low' in proportion to the number of vehicles on the road, but that it takes this issue very seriously saying; "The safety of our customers is the number one priority. Our investigations have found that a number of incidents have occurred due to previous repairs being performed improperly or using certain non-genuine parts."

For the time being, Vauxhall provides the following advice to Zafira B owners: If you are concerned about operating your vehicle or if you notice any unusual characteristics with the heating and ventilation system (for example a squeaking noise from the dashboard) you should contact your Vauxhall dealer and arrange for your vehicle to be inspected. This will be done at no cost.

Vauxhall also says it will consider further actions as appropriate.

Convertible, News

New MINI Cooper Convertible revealed

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MINI has unveiled its all-new Cooper Convertible.

With major refinements over its predecessor, the car features a new design and 'significant enhancements' and is officially on sale in the UK from March 2016. The three-car line-up from launch comprises of the MINI Cooper Convertible, MINI Cooper D Convertible, MINI Cooper S Convertible.

Brand new features include a fully electric roof that is quieter and smoother than the previous model, a fully integrated rollover protection system and more rear space than ever before. The new exterior and interior design ensures showcases a 'blend of sporting flair and elegant dynamism'.

The all-new Cooper Convertible and Cooper D Convertible are 3,821 mm long, with the Cooper S Convertible 3,850 mm long. All models are 1,727 mm wide, 1,415 mm high and have a wheelbase of 2,495 mm. These dimensions have increased compared with the outgoing model which has enhanced comfort levels and allowed for more room in all four seats. Luggage volume has expanded by around 25 per cent to 215 litres with the roof closed and 160 litres with it folded down.

The latest generation of EU6-compliant engines are installed under the bonnet. The petrol engines inside Cooper Convertible and Cooper S Convertible - 1.5-litre three-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-cylinder respectively - feature turbocharging, direct fuel injection with centrally positioned injectors, variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side (double VANOS) and fully variable VALVETRONIC valve control technology. On the 1.5-litre diesel three-cylinder engine in the MINI Cooper D Convertible, there is turbocharging with variable intake geometry and common rail direct injection. A six-speed manual transmission is standard while a six-speed Steptronic transmission is available as an option.

MINI says it has gone to great lengths to further improve the quality of the fully electric roof. Suitable for year-round use and optimised for the very best heat and acoustic insulation, the new roof is also quieter than before, when opened it folds neatly behind the rear seats. The front roof section can also be retracted by up to 40 cm, and this can be carried out at any speed.

For a quick reaction to sudden changes in the (British) weather, the soft-top can be opened and closed at speeds of up to 18 mph. The two operations are activated by means of a toggle switch on the front roof frame. When the vehicle is stationary, it can also be operated using a button on the remote key. Both operations take 18 seconds. A button located in the driver's door trim allows for simultaneous opening and closing of all four side windows.

As an alternative to the standard version of the soft-top in black, a MINI Yours version is available for the first time with an integrated woven graphics such as the Union Jack motif, finished in a black and grey herringbone pattern.

Safety is a critical consideration in open-topped cars and the new MINI Convertible includes new integrated rollover protection which extends automatically when required. Also improved is the optional wind deflector which can be locked into position behind the driver and front passenger seats so to provide protection from unwanted air turbulence during open-topped driving. After use it can be removed and stowed in the luggage compartment.

MINI says a high level of standard equipment across the range includes the Visual Boost Radio with a 6.5-inch screen, MINI Connected, Bluetooth connectivity with USB audio, Rear Parking Distance Control and a Reversing Camera.

On-the-road pricing starts at £18,475 for the Cooper Convertible, £20,225 for the Cooper D Convertible and £22,430 for the Cooper S Convertible to £24,055 for the S Convertible automatic.

Family Car, Estate Car, News

Vauxhall confirms pricing for new Astra Sports Tourer

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Vauxhall's all-new Astra Sports Tourer will be in showrooms in March priced from £16,585 on-the-road.

The new Sports Tourer, built at Vauxhall's manufacturing plant in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, follows the five-door model and is up to £1,870 less expensive than the outgoing ST with a simplified range. The new line-up includes Design, Tech Line, SRi and Elite, with Nav versions of the SRi and Elite trims also available.

Range highlights include the 1.0-litre three-cylinder Turbo Start/Stop ecoFLEX model priced from £17,285 OTR. With an Easytronic five-speed automatic transmission, the same model achieves a 'class-leading' 96g/km CO2 emissions.

The range-topping 1.6-litre (200PS) is available in SRi trim priced from £21,710 OTR.

The diesel offering includes the 1.6-litre 'Whisper Diesel' (110PS) Start/Stop ecoFLEX model (prices start at £18,785 OTR) that achieves 85.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 86g/km.

News, Hatchback

Citroen C4 Cactus Chauffeurs at Q Awards

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Citroen continued its sponsorship of the Q Awards by providing a fleet of C4 Cactus models to chauffeur the stars to and from.

The Q Awards in Association With Absolute Radio took place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London Monday 19 October and was Citroen's fourth year in a row as Official Car Supplier. The french manufacture also supported the Q Best Solo Artist award, which was won by Ed Sheeran.

Celebrity guests and musicians including Bernard Sumner of New Order, Gary Numan, La Roux, Foxes, and Kim Wilde arrived at the ceremony in a fleet of C4 Cactus cars. Music legends Tom Jones and Noel Gallagher were also in attendance, along with global superstar Mark Ronson, who received the Q Hero Award.

Andrew Didlick, Director, Communications, Events and Brand Partnerships at Peugeot Citroen Automobiles UK, commented, "This year's Q Awards showed that the British music industry is really thriving, and we're proud to have presented the award for Q Best Solo Artist. The Citroen C4 Cactus is designed to make people feel good and what better way to express that than by supporting one of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the UK rock music scene as Official Car Supplier."

News

Volvo to launch reflective LifePaint for cyclists

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Volvo is launching its LifePaint reflective spray, aimed at increasing the visibility and safety of cyclists on the road.

It follows a successful limited pilot back in April 2015, and will be available in participating Volvo dealers from 24th October in time for darker nights, when the clocks go back. The reflective spray is designed to react to a car's headlights, alerting drivers to the presence of cyclists in the dark.

The unique illuminating safety paint is invisible by daylight, but in the dark reflects light in the same direction as the light source, shining brightly to illuminate the objects it has been sprayed on. The LifePaint is transparent, can be washed off and can be applied to clothes, shoes, helmets, pushchairs and children's backpacks - even dog leads and collars.

The product, first distributed through six London bike shops, ran out within 24 hours creating massive demand for wider distribution. The inspiration for the paint came from Intellisafe - Volvo's pedestrian and cyclist detection system, enhanced to work in darkness on the all-new Volvo XC90 which was introduced to the UK in June this year. The technology uses a combination of radar sensors and cameras to identify other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists and automatically brake if the driver fails to take the necessary action.

Nick Connor, Managing Director at Volvo Car UK, said: "Every year more than 19,000 cyclists are injured on the UK's roads. At Volvo, we believe that the best way to survive a crash is not to crash at all, and are committed to making the roads a safer place by reducing the number of accidents. "Volvo is a world-leader in safety technology, and we are proud to be extending our reach beyond just those driving our cars. By making cyclists increasingly visible as well as increasing the safety capabilities of our cars, we are doing our utmost to protect everyone on the road."

Hatchback, News

Skoda reveals new Citigo Black Edition

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Skoda has added a new Citigo Black Edition to its line-up.

Available in three-or five-door, the Citigo Black is powered by a 1.0 MPI 60PS engine and 'packs a strong visual punch' according to Skoda thanks to its standard Deep Black or Candy White paint and 15-inch Black Auriga alloy wheels. Sunset glass for the rear windows and body-coloured door mirrors are also fitted as standard.

The new Citigo Black Edition features Skoda's Portable Infotainment Device (PID) that includes satellite navigation, a hands-free Bluetooth connection and multimedia player. The Black Edition also comes with manual air-conditioning as standard, along with the Citigo Entertainment pack that consists of four additional loudspeakers and a multimedia holder. Electric front windows and a height-adjustable driver seat complete the specification list.

The new Skoda Citigo Black Edition is available to order now priced at £9,900 OTR for the 3dr Hatch 1.0 MPI 60PS and £10,340 for the 5dr Hatch 1.0 MPI 60PS.

Hybrid, News, Electric, Saloon

Volvo details electric car strategy

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Volvo has announced a comprehensive electrification strategy in which plug-in hybrids will be introduced across its entire range.

The Swedish car maker will develop an entirely new range of electrified smaller cars and build a fully electric car for sale by 2019. Volvo says it expects electrified vehicles to account for up to 10 per cent of total car sales in the medium term.

The first phase of the new electrification strategy involves the introduction of plug-in hybrid versions of its 90 series and 60 series larger cars, based on the company's new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). This process has already begun with the launch of the T8 Twin Engine All-Wheel Drive plug-in hybrid version of its new XC90 SUV and will continue with plug-in hybrid versions of the new S90 premium saloon and other forthcoming models.

Volvo will also broaden the range of plug-in hybrid cars it offers with the introduction of a new front-wheel drive Twin Engine variant.

The Swedish car maker will further deepen its product offering with the introduction of an entirely new range of smaller 40 series cars based on its newly-developed Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) which, like the SPA, has been designed from the outset for electrification.

Further details of the all-electric car for 2019 will be released at a later date.

Sports Car, News, Hatchback

New flagship trim levels for Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta

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The Alfa Romeo MiTo and Alfa Romeo Giulietta ranges have both received new trim levels.

A new Collezione specification is available in both models, while a new Sprint Speciale version joins the Alfa Romeo Giulietta range.

The Collezione versions are the new flagships of their respective ranges, offering a more 'luxurious and elegant specification' than the sporty QV Line models. In the case of the Alfa Romeo MiTo Collezione, standard equipment includes 17-inch 'Collezione Bronze' alloy wheels with matching bronze-effect door mirrors and satin-effect headlight and tail light surrounds.

The interior is trimmed in special Collezione cloth and 'eco-leather' upholstery, with brown stitching on the flat-bottom steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake gaiter. A split-folding, three-seat rear bench, sports dials, special Collezione vintage floor mats and a Uconnect NAV infotainment system with TomTom satellite navigation and DAB radio round out the flagship spec.

Offered with a choice of a 0.9-litre TwinAir Turbo 105hp or 1.4-litre Turbo Petrol 140hp engines (the latter with Alfa's six-speed ALFA TCT twin-clutch transmission and uprated Brembo brakes as standard) the Alfa Romeo MiTo Collezione is priced at £17,660 OTR and £19,210 OTR respectively.

The Giulietta Collezione builds on the high specification of the Exclusive trim with a gloss-black painted roof and matching door mirrors, front and rear parking sensors and unique, dark-finish, 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the seats are trimmed in bespoke 'Collezione' leather with heated front seats, joined by a 6.5-inch Uconnect NAV system with advanced voice operated sat nav with 3D mapping and DAB digital radio as standard.

Prices for the Giulietta Collezione start at £24,820 for the 1.4 MultiAir Turbo Petrol 170hp six-speed manual, or £26,245 with the six-speed Alfa TCT twin-clutch transmission. The diesel Giulietta Collezione range starts at £25,680 for the 2.0 JTDM-2 150hp manual, with the 2.0 JTDM-2 175hp ALFA TCT version completing the new Collezione range at £27,840.

A new Giulietta Sprint Speciale also joins the range, building on the specification of the Sprint model to offer further performance-oriented equipment. The Sprint Speciale adds sports suspension, 17-inch sports alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, aluminium pedals and Quadrifoglio-style sports seats as standard, along with dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, special silver dashboard trim, the 'Visibility Pack' and cruise control.

The engine range includes the 1.4 TB MultiAir 150hp, priced from £23,320 with a six-speed manual or £24,745 with the six-speed ALFA TCT (including steering-wheel mounted paddle-shifters). The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Speciale powered by the 2.0 JTDM-2 150hp is priced from £24,180 while the 2.0 JTDM-2 175hp ALFA TCT version is priced from £26,340 OTR.

Sports Car, News

Abarth 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition

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Abarth has revealed a new 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition.

It comes as part of Abarth's role of Official Sponsor and Car Supplier to the FIM MotoGP Championship. Created from a partnership with Yamaha, the new edition comes in a choice of seven colours and is 'packed with sporty features'.

Running on 17-inch matt black alloy wheels, the 595 also includes painted brake callipers and optional matching Abarth side stripes and mirror covers. Darkened windows, a flat-bottom leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals and a special 'Yamaha Factory Racing' badge - all as standard - enhance the model's sporting credentials. Xenon headlamps, leather interior and dual zone air conditioning are among the options.

Powered by an upgraded version of Abarth's potent 1.4-litre T-Jet engine, the 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition is further enhanced with a Record Monza exhaust system, Koni shock absorbers with FSD valves and Eibach lowering springs. With a top speed of 130 mph, the special edition 595 accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.4 seconds.

"The new 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition adds a new dimension to the Abarth 595 line-up" says Gerry Southerington, brand manager, Abarth UK. "With an upgrade to 160 horsepower, lowered suspension, sporting looks and a great sounding exhaust system, we expect a lot of interest in this car from Abarth enthusiasts and new customers alike."

The Abarth 595 Yamaha Factory Racing Edition is available to order now, priced from £17,420 OTR.

Coupe, Sports Car, News

New BMW M2 revealed

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BMW has revealed its new M2 compact sports coupe.

The new coupe from BMW's M division, the M2 features the latest in motor sport derived technology. The result is a powerful performer, which BMW says 'delivers genuine driver satisfaction on the road, and extreme capability on the racing circuit'.

Powered by a new, specifically developed, 3.0-litre straight-six engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, it kicks out 370hp for an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. When equipped with the optional seven-speed M DCT gearbox, the M2 can sprint from rest to 62mph in 4.3 seconds.

This performance is expressed visually via unique enhancements to the base 2 Series Coupe body, majoring on style but also reflecting the aerodynamic, cooling and chassis requirements of the new car. Engineers have worked to reduce weight wherever possible, improve rigidity and hone the M2's responses via 'sophisticated chassis technology and electronics'.

Track tested on the Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit, the new model runs on 19-inch aluminium forged wheels, and also features an M Quad sports exhaust system. On the inside of the driver-focused interior there are sports seats, M steering wheel and M gearlever. Combined mpg comes in at 33.2 (35.8 with the M DCT) and CO2 Emissions of 199g/km (185g/km - M DCT)

On sale April in 2016, prices start at £44,070 OTR.

Diesel, Supercars, News

Limited edition Ferrari F12tdf unveiled

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Ferrari has revealed a new limited F12tdf - paying homage to the Tour de France road race.

The legendary endurance road race was dominated by Ferrari in the 1950s and '60s, particularly with the 1956 250 GT Berlinetta which won four consecutive editions. A race that rewarded cars that combined maximum performance with the driveability and ease of use, the new F12tdf is described as 'the ultimate expression of the concept of an extreme road car that is equally at home on the track'. Only 799 will be built.

Powered by a 780 cv, naturally-aspirated V12 engine, derived directly from the F12berlinetta's engine. The car's 'exhilarating' dynamic behaviour, specifically its lateral acceleration in corners, is due to an 8 per cent increase in the ratio of the front tyres compared to the rear ones. The car's natural tendency to oversteer as a result of the change in tyre sizes is compensated for by the rear-wheel steering system - known as the Virtual Short Wheelbase, which is integrated with the other vehicle dynamic control systems.

Cornering speeds are also higher thanks to the significant increase in downforce, +87 per cent. A redesign of the bodywork, interior, engine, transmission and running gear, along with the abundant use of carbon-fibre inside and out, has slashed 110 kg off the car's overall weight. All of these factors combine to produce 'record performance figures' of 0-62mph in 2.9 seconds and 0-124mph in 7.9 seconds.

The F12tdf's specification is completed by lightweight alloys with five twinned spokes that are designed to have the narrowest section possible to reduce unsprung weight. Behind the alloys, stopping power comes from new 'Extreme Design' one-piece brake callipers already seen on the LaFerrari. This new-generation system means the car can brake from 62-0mph in just 30.5 metres and from 124-0mph in 121 metres.

Prices have yet to be announced.

Diesel, News

Volkswagen to recall 8.5 million vehicles in Europe

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Volkswagen has confirmed it will recall a total of approximately 8.5 million vehicles in Europe (EU28 markets).

The German brand says it welcomes the 'swift decision' by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) to implement the timetable and plan of measures submitted last week by issuing a recall. This decision gives customers clarity with regard to the continued unrestricted use of the vehicles, with the vehicle owners set to be notified.

The 8.5 million european vehicles include some 2.4 million vehicles in Germany, according to KBA. Outside the EU28, each individual country will clarify in detail which emissions classes of the EA 189 engine are in fact affected.

In addition, every VW customer can visit the recently set up www.volkswagen.de/info website and enter the chassis number of their vehicle to find outstraight away whether they are affected. Similar customer websites are active in the other EU countries and for the Audi, SEAT and Skoda brands.

Work on the technical solutions detailed in the plan of measures is currently 'proceeding at full speed' according to the German car giant. Remedial action on the vehicles will begin in January 2016 - at no cost to the customer. The technical solutions can involve software as well as hardware measures. These are currently being developed for each affected series and each affected model year. All measures will first be presented to the responsible authorities. Volkswagen will subsequently inform the owners of these vehicles over the next weeks and months.

Customers now have clarity with regard to the continued unrestricted use of the vehicles. All of the vehicles affected remain technically safe and roadworthy. The current successor generation of EA 288 diesel engines (in use since 2012) is not affected.

Electric, Hybrid, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, News, Saloon

Boris Johnson confirms hydrogen Toyota for TfL

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Mayor of London Boris Johnson has confirmed the Toyota Mirai, the world's first hydrogen fuel cell saloon, is coming to the capital.

As part of his work to pioneer use of cleaner technology for the future of the capital's transport and infrastructure, Transport for London (TfL) will be in the first group of UK Mirai customers.

The mayor visited Toyota's headquarters today during a three-day trade mission to Japan and took the opportunity to test drive Mirai for himself. He said: "It is fantastic that London will benefit from these new state-of-the-art hydrogen vehicles. By embracing this technology of the future, we aim to consolidate hydrogen's role as a practical alternative fuel for the 21st century and beyond. I am sure that Transport for London will provide the ideal environment for us to see everything Mirai can do and, in doing so, take another great step towards improving air quality in our city and protecting the health of Londoners."

The mayor also discussed London's position as a market for alternative fuel cars, with Toyota senior management. Paul Van der Burgh, Toyota (GB) PLC President and Managing Director said: "We have been delighted to welcome the Mayor of London to our headquarters in Japan to see for himself Toyota's commitment to sustainable mobility. Toyota believes in hydrogen as a key enabler for building a future zero emissions society and we applaud the mayor's commitment to embracing new technology in his mission to make London a leading global city for low-emission, low-carbon transport.

"The success of hydrogen will require constructive dialogue and action, bringing together industry, national governments and city authorities like London to share and develop skills and experience and to communicate the benefits that can be delivered to business and to individuals. Our Mirai fuel cell vehicle is a milestone in the history of the motor car and opens up unprecedented opportunities for cleaner, sustainable transport. Transport for London and the city it serves will provide the ideal environment for Mirai to demonstrate the significant potential of hydrogen as a practical alternative fuel for the next century and beyond."

Transport for London sees Mirai as an exciting opportunity that the mayor is keen to exploit. The TfL Mirai cars and the development of a hydrogen refuelling infrastructure are considered important first steps towards the wider adoption of the technology.

Hybrid, Sports Car, News, Electric, Concept Car

Rinspeed reveals new driverless Etos concept car

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Rinspeed has revealed plans to show a new driverless Etos concept car, at the CES Consumer Electronic Show 2016 in Las Vegas 2016.

The hybrid sports car features a personal autopilot and drone on board. Frank M. Rinderknecht, the boss of Rinspeed said: "The major and especially the disruptive innovations in future automotive engineering will come from the digital realm. That is why all major manufacturers and suppliers are now present at the CES Consumer Electronic Show."

The Swiss company's approached to the topic of 'driverless cars' is largely from the point of view of drivers and passengers, and has generated a number of ideas including an 'intuitive, adaptive autopilot capable of learning'.

The new concept's interior adapts to the particular driving situation 'as if by magic' according to Rinspeed: In autonomous mode, the steering wheel folds up and retracts completely into the dashboard. The two curved widescreens individually move closer to the occupants to provide a better view.

To provide the passengers with a unique infotainment experience, the Etos uses Harman Connected Car technologies. Like a personal assistant, the system operates in a thinking, courteous and anticipatory manner. In addition, it delivers entertainment, connectivity and maximum safety.

The sporty hybrid is also fitted with its own drone that has its a landing pad on the rear end. The Swiss firm says the drone 'could fetch a bouquet of flowers the driver ordered online and even deliver it directly to the lucky recipient. It could also take a video of the wild ride on your favourite road and stream it live to friends'.

The 22nd concept vehicle designed in-house at the brands "innovation lab" also includes innovative surface finishes that are still completely alien to car designers, asking CES visitors to 'touch it, feel it - it's magic!'.

The CES Consumer Electronic Show Las Vegas runs from 6-9 January 2016.

Vintage Car, News, Coupe, Sports Car

Businessman leaves £10m Ferraris to RNLI

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Businessman Richard Colton has left a rare Ferrari 275 GTB/4 and Ferrari 250 GT SWB to be auctioned, with the proceeds going to the RNLI.

Initial estimates place the combined value of the two Ferraris as potentially topping Ten million pounds. Richard Colton was a Northamptonshire-based businessman, who for 40 years collected and actively campaigned sensational classic cars. Described by close friends as a shy and private man, he was known to be 'somewhat nervous of the sea', which may have added to his great respect for the men and women who risk their lives daily around Britain's coast.

Colton was keen that his legacy be sold by a British classic car specialist auction house - hence H&H was chosen by his executors. Working closely with the auction house, Jim Kearns Senior Partner at Wilson Browne Solicitors was tasked, as joint executor, with ensuring that Colton's estate was executed in line with his wishes, that all proceeds be bequeathed to the RNLI.

Jim Kearns commented; "It is a remarkable and generous legacy. All of us at Wilson Browne Solicitors are proud to be part of such an exciting and wonderful bequest and it's testament to the faith Richard had in us as experts in the field that he not only relied on us for his Will but asked us to ensure that we got the best possible price (as joint executors) so the money could be put to work for the RNLI."

Kearns added; "The exquisite cars really were the impossible gift. To leave them to an individual would have incurred 40 per cent inheritance tax meaning that the cars would most likely have to be sold to pay for it. Leaving them to a charitable cause as noble as the RNLI means that they get the maximum value."

Money raised from the sale will be used to build a new lifeboat called Richard and Caroline Colton, named after Richard and his late wife.

Guy Rose, Legacy Manager at the RNLI, said: "We are deeply grateful and humbled by Mr Colton's generous gift and his decision to benefit the RNLI in this way. Six out of every 10 lifeboat launches are only made possible because of gifts left to us in Wills, so they are vital to saving lives at sea. Mr Colton's generosity will be felt most by our volunteer crews and the people whose lives they save."

The auction takes place on 14 October 2015 at the Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridge.

Supercars, News, Coupe, Sports Car, Convertible

McLaren reveals limited 650S Can-Am edition

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McLaren has unveiled a limited edition 650S Can-Am, of which only 50 examples will be produced globally.

Based on the 650S Spider, the new model was created by the McLaren Special Operations (MSO) department and honours the 50th anniversary of the inaugural 1966 Canadian-American Challenge Cup, or Can-Am, season. Taking its inspiration from the race cars of this age of motorsport, McLaren established itself throughout the 1960s and 70s as a 'world-beating force' in one of the most extreme forms of motorsport, winning five consecutive championships between 1967 and 1971.

The Can-Am was a no-holds-barred battle of power and speed around some of the most iconic circuits in North America and Canada. It attracted the best drivers of the time including Graham Hill, John Surtees, Jackie Stewart and, of course, Bruce McLaren. The championship started in 1966, only a year after Bruce McLaren Motor Racing was established and in the series that followed, the young Kiwi became one of most successful names in the sport.

McLaren says key to its success in the the Can-Am series was the use of the latest technologies and materials. This principle has been carried through to today's 650S Can-Am, where lightweight materials such as aluminium and mallite were used in the construction of yesterday's racers, the modern-day car features extensive carbon fibre not least in the construction of its lightweight MonoCell chassis.

A carbon fibre retractable hard top features for the first time while further carbon fibre is used for the bonnet, Airbrake, front splitter, rear bumper centre, door blades and 650S Can-Am branded sill cover. MSO has also created a unique set of lightweight forged alloy wheels inspired by those of the 1960s racers with a gloss-black finish on each of the five spokes and a diamond cut rim. Held in place by titanium bolts, the wheels are shod with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Carbon ceramic brakes with black painted callipers are standard equipment.

Further unique features inspired by the iconic Can-Am racers include carbon fibre louvered front wings and a new quad-exit, polished stainless steel exhaust system. The louvres are designed to reduce pressure over the front wheels and increase downforce, while the four circular tailpipes at the rear of the car housed within a new visual carbon fibre rear grille 'echo the aggressive throttle trumpets' of the historic models. They also provide the 650S Can-Am with a 'unique soundtrack'.

Like the 650S Spider, this limited production model is powered by a 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 which producing 650PS (641bhp) and 678Nm (500 lb ft) of torque, for a 0-62 mph time of only three seconds and its top speed is 204 mph.

The 650S Can-Am is available in three colours. The launch colour, Mars Red, is directly inspired by the M1B raced by Bruce McLaren and his teammate Chris Amon in the debut season. The second colour, Papaya Spark, is described as a modern and metallic take on the famous Can-Am racing McLaren Orange. The final option is Onyx Black which is similar to the base colour used by many of the McLaren customer teams in the later seasons. Each is additionally available with a corresponding racing livery to give an even closer visual association with the historic Can-Am series, says McLaren.

Inside, the standard sports seats are upholstered with leather and Alcantara which complement the exterior. Carbon fibre features extensively throughout the cabin while a further bespoke Can-Am touch is the unique dedication plaque on the driver's door.

The new 650S Can-Am can be commissioned for a price of £255,850 with deliveries set to commence in the spring of 2016, 50 years on from the first race at Mont Tremblant, Canada.

Coupe, Diesel, Sports Car, News

Mercedes confirms C-Class Coupe pricing and spec

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Mercedes has confirmed the new C-Class Coupe will be priced from £30,955 OTR.

Available to order now ahead of first UK deliveries in December, the new C-Class Coupe comes with four engine options and two model lines. The new Coupe builds on the specification of the Saloon and Estate variants, and starts with the C 200 petrol engine, which produces 184 hp and is available with a six-speed manual (123 g/km of CO2) or 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox (125 g/km). The new C 300 engine produces 245 hp and comes only with the 7G-Tronic gearbox, with CO2 from 146 g/km.

Two diesel engines are available: the 170 hp C 220 d, with a six-speed manual (106 g/km) or 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox (106 g/km), and the C 250 d, which produces 204 hp and comes with a 9G-Tronic gearbox (109 g/km).

The two model lines are the Sport and AMG Line. Standard equipment includes LED headlights and tail-lights; Active Park Assist; PARKTRONIC parking sensors; a reversing camera; sports seats with ARTICO upholstery including heated front seats; 7-inch colour screen; Garmin navigation; electrically folding mirrors and Collision Prevention Assist Plus automatic braking system. The C 300 model also features, as standard, a sports exhaust system with switchable sound.

The Sport model comes with a gloss black interior trim with aluminium inlays in the doors, 17-inch alloy wheels and a 'diamond grille with black-painted pins'.

The AMG Line includes black ash wood trim, an AMG sports steering wheel with flat bottom, brushed steel sports pedals and a black roof lining. The exterior features an AMG bodystyling kit, 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, the diamond grille and 15mm lowered sports suspension.

Two options packages are available: Premium and Premium Plus. The £1,695 Premium Package includes a panoramic glass roof, keyless go, seat memory package and ambient lighting. To this the £2,995 Premium Plus Package also adds a Burmester surround sound system and COMAND online with 8-inch screen. A £1,695 Driver's Assistance Package includes DISTRONIC Plus with stop and go (adaptive cruise control); Active blind spot and lane-keeping assist, Pre-safe with pedestrian detection (anticipatory safety system).

Topping the range is the £61,160 Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe. With a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 engine and AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed automatic gearbox, the C 63 produces 476 hp and 650 Nm, and can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.0 seconds. The £66,910 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S produces 510 hp and 700 Nm, with 0-62 mph taking 3.9 seconds.

From launch, a limited-edition C63 S Edition 1 is also available. It features unique details including diamond-stitched nappa leather upholstery with contrast yellow stitching; carbon fibre interior trim; graphite AMG decals on the bonnet, roof and sides; an AMG aerodynamic package and bespoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, and is available for £76,900. The Edition 1 motorsport package adds to this yellow AMG decals, designo selenite grey magno paint, AMG high-performance ceramic composite braking system and exclusive 19inch front and 20-inch rear wheels with yellow detailing for an extra £3,000.

News

Vauxhall's Scrappage Allowance scheme returns

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Vauxhall has re-launched its Scrappage Allowance scheme, offering £2,000 for your old banger.

Customers can take advantage of the £2,000 (including VAT) scrappage trade-in against most new Vauxhall passenger cars in its range. To qualify for the scheme, customers must have owned their trade-in vehicle for a minimum of 90 days, there is no upper age limit for cars and any manufacturer's vehicle will be accepted.

"Vauxhall's Scrappage Allowance scheme makes buying a new car even more affordable," said Leon Caruso, Vauxhall's Retail Sales Director. "Even customers who think that their current car is only worth a few pounds can now turn it into a £2,000 contribution towards the cost of a new Vauxhall - and that's over and above any other deals they negotiate with the retailer, including free insurance on ADAM SLAM and Corsa Limited Edition."

As part of the scheme, vehicles must be traded-in and scrapped to be eligible for the allowance. All surrendered vehicles will be handled by Vauxhall's official contracted end of life vehicle partner Autogreen through their online platform www.rewardingrecycling.co.uk. The offer is available across Vauxhall's passenger car range excluding VIVA, Corsa Sting and Sting R and ADAM JAM. The Scrappage Allowance scheme is available at participating Vauxhall retailers.

Concept Car, Hypercar, Saloon, News

Jaguar to feature at WIRED2015

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Jaguar has confirmed it will showcase its technologically-advanced XF saloon car at WIRED2015.

WIRED magazine's annual two-day flagship event brings the WIRED world to life, and is recognised as the multimedia authority on the future, in print and digital. The XF will be joined by the C-X75 concept hypercar, shown for the first time in the UK - which features in the new Bond adventure, SPECTRE.

Senior Jaguar executives Kevin Stride (XF Vehicle Line Director), Adam Hatton (Creative Director, Jaguar Exterior Design), Alister Whelan (Creative Director, Jaguar Interior Design) and Peter Virk (Head of Connected Technologies and Apps) will support the presentation of the all-new XF at WIRED. Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) will also offer exclusive workshop sessions at the WIRED conference.

The appearance of the new XF will focus on the car's 'inherently innovative' technologies including InControl Touch Pro (offering door-to-door navigation, iOS and Android connectivity and Meridian digital surround sound), Jaguar Configurable Dynamics, All-Surface Progress Control (enabling smooth, drive-away on low friction surfaces such as snow and ice), laser head-up display, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise-control with queue-assist, lane keep-assist, intelligent speed limiter and semi-automated parking.

Chaired by WIRED UK Deputy Editor, Greg Williams, and supported by additional speakers from WIRED2015, two 30 minute thought-leadership sessions will cover topics designed to stimulate discussion and debate by experts in their field. The first session is scheduled for Thursday 15th: 'Humanity in the digital age', with the second scheduled for Friday 16th: 'Integrated innovation: Car design and Engineering'. Both sessions will be filmed and published by Jaguar and WIRED at the event.

In addition, Jaguar Land Rover will show some of the company's future technologies and research projects, including: Mind Sense - Jaguar's research project to see if a car could effectively read the brainwaves and monitor if the driver is alert and concentrating on driving. The most common method for monitoring brainwaves is close to the source using sensors attached to a headband, to circumvent this requirement, Jaguar Land Rover is investigating methods in use by NASA and the US bobsleigh team to develop pilots' concentration and focus. Mind Sense will detect brainwaves through the hands via sensors embedded in the steering wheel, with software adopted to amplify the signal and filter out the pure brainwave from any background noise between the driver's head and the wheel. If brain activity indicates a day dream or poor concentration, the steering wheel or pedals will vibrate to raise the driver's awareness to the lapse. User trials are underway, supported by leading neuroscientists to verify the results.

JLR is also researching how a car could heat or cool an 'air bubble' inside the vehicle, and maintain temperature and air quality using innovative new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) technologies.

Cargo Sense is an idea for a trailer monitoring system designed to optimise cargo loading for safer towing. As well as helping users load cargo evenly and efficiently, the pressure sensitive mat would detect if a load, be it solid (boxes, furniture, car) or alive (horse), is moving around in an unexpected or abnormal way whilst traveling. The project includes the development of an App that allows drivers to monitor the status of a trailer and its cargo remotely via smartphone.

WIRED2015 takes place from 15 - 16 October at Tobacco Dock, London E1.

Concept Car, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, Sports Car, News

Toyota to reveal new concepts in Tokyo

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Toyota has unveiled its new concepts, ahead of a Tokyo Motor Show debut.

The Japanese brand will give world premieres to three contrasting new concepts, including a lightweight, entry-level rear-wheel drive sports car and a new fuel cell vehicle.

The S-FR concept celebrates Toyota's heritage of lightweight, fun-to-drive sports cars - a line that stretches back from today's GT86 to the 2000GT and S800 of the 1960s. Pitched as an entry-level model, Toyota says its focus is on 'responsiveness and character' with the brand confident it could attract 'its own die-hard fan base of drivers and customisers'. Featuring a long nose and wide stance for a classic sports car profile, the concept also has rounded bodywork adding to the S-FR's appeal.

The S-FR combines simplicity and compact design with an 'exceptionally' lightweight body and a front engine/rear-wheel drive drivetrain which contributes to responsive performance and direct handling. The engine has a front/midship location, says Toyota, with optimal weight distribution and independent suspension securing 'excellent cornering performance'. A six-speed manual transmission supports smooth acceleration.

The FCV Plus concept joins the S-FR and explores how the hydrogen fuel cell, used to power the car, can also be deployed to as an energy source for general use. As well as having its own hydrogen fuel tank, the FCV Plus can generate electricity from hydrogen stored outside the vehicle, so the car can be used to produce power in different locations - at home, at work, or further afield.

Compressed hydrogen has a higher energy density than electricity, can be produced from a wide range of raw materials and is easy to store - all qualities that make it a promising future source of energy. When the car is not being used for transport, it can share its power generation capabilities with communities as part of the local infrastructure. The fuel cell stack can be reused as a device to generate electricity, going beyond the traditional functions of a car.

The fuel cell stack in the FCV Plus is mounted between the front wheels, with the hydrogen tank located behind the rear seat. Together with independent in-wheel motors in all four wheels, this allows for a spacious cabin within a compact vehicle body. Concentrating the functional parts of the car at the front and rear creates an ideal weight balance and gives the driver a wide field of vision, according to Toyota.

The KIKAI concept makes the most of the car's mechanical parts, rather than concealing them from view, the vehicle's inner workings have become part of the exterior in a design concept that breaks with convention. This approach extends to the details such as the fuel tank, exhaust, analogue meters and switchgear. There is even a small window by the driver's feet, giving a view of the tyres, suspension and road surface. The movement of the front suspension's upper control arm can also be seen through the windscreen.

The driver's seat is positioned centrally, putting the driver at the heart of the action. A triangular arrangement of the three passenger seats and an expansive side window that extends up to the roofline help create a congenial cabin environment.

The new, fourth generation Prius will also will be making its Japanese debut at the Tokyo motor show, together with the C-HR Concept - recently unveiled in Frankfurt - that previews a new production compact hybrid crossover that Toyota will unveil next year.

The Tokyo Motor Show runs from 30 October to 8 November 2015.