Wanderlust

Category: News

  • Singer Presents DLS Turbo Services

    Singer Presents DLS Turbo Services

    • Singer’s latest restoration services for enthusiast owners of the Type 964 air-cooled 911
    • Turbocharging integrated with DLS services
    • Personalized at the request of Singer’s clients for road or track-focused driving
    • Celebrating Porsche heritage and the victorious 934/5 endurance racers of the late 1970s

    [source: Singer Vehicle Design]

    Los Angeles, CA – Singer is a California-based luxury specialist that restores air-cooled Porsche 911s in collaboration with their owners. In response to requests from clients, Singer has evolved their DLS services to incorporate turbocharging (DLS Turbo).

    A celebration of turbocharged endurance racers

    DLS Turbo restoration services are imagined with each owner to celebrate the victorious 934/5 endurance racers of the 1970s. In the year that Singer is going racing with the latest turbocharged Porsche endurance racecar, the Type 963, this celebration of racing DNA links past and present.

    The Porsche 911 began as a naturally aspirated car, undergoing careful development over the years to optimize road and track performance. Beginning in the mid-1970s, the turbocharged 911 emerged and underwent a similar evolution. In 1977 this led to a racing variant of the 911, known as the Type 934/5, which dominated the SCCA Trans American series, winning 6 of the 8 races and the championship.

    Rob Dickinson, Executive Chairman and Founder, Singer Group, Inc. explains:

    “I was 12 when my father’s friend showed us his Super 8 film of the 1977 Watkins Glen 6 Hours. As the familiar face of a Porsche 911 morphed into impossibly boxed hips, gaping intakes, and a giant double-planed rear wing, I can still remember the shock and the realization that this was the other life of the 911 – the racing car. Since Singer began, I’ve wanted to return to that moment, collaborate with our clients and celebrate that car – the 934/5.”

    The Restoration Process

    The process begins when the owner of a Type 964 Porsche 911 sends their car to Singer with the request to carry out a personalized restoration. Originally manufactured by Porsche between 1989 and 1994, these sports cars have been enjoyed for thirty years. Really enjoyed.

    The owner’s car is carefully disassembled. The interior is removed, as is the exterior bodywork and all mechanical components, until the steel monocoque (chassis) is revealed. The chassis is painstakingly assessed, cleaned, strengthened, and prepared so that it is in optimal condition for the next stages of the restoration.

    Body restoration

    Modified carbon fiber bodywork is used to reduce weight and increase stiffness.

    Aerodynamics

    The shape of the carbon fiber bodywork is influenced by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis – to optimize aerodynamic performance. A central front intake and hood vent optimize cooling performance, while rear fender intakes and NACA ducts aid brake and turbocharger cooling.

    Some owners prefer their restoration be track-focused, while others prefer a road-focused restoration.

    Track-focused owner

    The car in Blood Orange has been specified by its owner to emphasize track performance, featuring a high-downforce rear wing with adjustable upper element and a track-oriented front fascia with larger splitter.

    Road-focused owner

    The car in Moet Blanc has been specified by its owner to be road-focused, including an aero-optimized rear ducktail spoiler and road-oriented front fascia which reduce drag.

    Owners may request that their Type 964 is modified to accept both aero configurations. The front fascia and rear decklid assembly can be removed and switched, allowing ultimate personalization and freedom of choice for each owner.

    Engine Development

    As with all Singer’s restoration and modification services, the engine from the owner’s Type 964 Porsche 911, is the starting point. The engine is disassembled down to the engine block before being restored using high performance components and modifications to optimize performance.

    The unique, 3.8L, 4-valves per cylinder flat-six uses twin turbochargers, with electric wastegates, air-to-water intercooling and a horizontally mounted, electrically powered fan. This evolution of the engine developed for DLS restorations enables power outputs over 700 HP at more than 9000 rpm.

    Tailored Driving Experience

    At the direction of the car‘s owner, Singer tailors the character of each restoration individually.

    A 6-speed manual transmission sends power to the rear wheels. Track-oriented suspension and bespoke dampers with remote adjustment are among the details that may be considered. Powerful carbon ceramic discs and lightweight, monobloc calipers for both road and track use are installed. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 or Cup 2R tires are mounted on lightweight 19” (front) and 20” (rear) forged magnesium, centerlock wheels.

    The restoration and modification services enable owners to personalize the exterior and interior presentation of their car according to their personal preferences, through bespoke paint, leather, and material finishes.

    Further Comments:

    Notes Rob Dickinson:
    “The results of turbocharging our advanced 4-valve, high-revving DLS engine have been quite spectacular and combining it with all we have learned about lightweighting and vehicle dynamics has provided the perfect canvas to honor the Type 934/5 and its vital role in the genesis of the 911 as a racing car.”

    Notes Mazen Fawaz, Chief Executive Officer, Singer Group, Inc.:
    “Our DLS services heralded a new era at Singer and facilitated enormous maturation of our operations in California and the United Kingdom. We’ve collaborated with some of the most famous names in the automotive world, including Bosch and Michelin as we continue our mission to set ourselves ever higher standards. We will continue to serve our creative and passionate client base with exciting new ideas like DLS Turbo.”

    Price and Availability

    Each restoration is unique. Every owner is able to share their personal preferences and requirements for bespoke engineering as part of the process of working with Singer to personalize their own 911.

    Prices for Singer’s restoration services are dependent on the requests by each car’s owner. A limited number of restorations will be commissioned.

    In public

    For those keen to see an example of the possible results of the restoration and modification services in person, please plan to attend Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK from 13-16 July, 2023, or the Monterey Peninsula in Northern California for Car Week in August 2023.

    Singer Summary

    Founded in California in 2009, Singer represents a philosophy simply expressed as A Relentless Pursuit of Excellence.

    The company has become renowned for its collaboration with owners of the air-cooled Porsche 911 to reimagine bespoke restorations. Singer’s philosophy embodies:

    • A highly personalized approach and exquisite execution.
    • A passionate focus on iconic design and a homage to the world’s most iconic sportscars.
    • Modern engineering and material science combined with jewel-like details.
    • A deep connection with California and its automotive zeitgeist.

    Singer’s automotive services enable owners to restore both normally aspirated and turbocharged sports cars for the road and track.

    Classic services allowed owners to pursue their personal vision for optimized, air-cooled 911 coupes and Targas.

    DLS services allowed owners to explore the ultra-high-performance capabilities of their naturally aspirated, air-cooled 911, incorporating technology born from the world of Formula 1.

    Classic Turbo services extended Singer’s collaboration with owners into the world of turbocharging, with a focus on high-performance, luxury grand touring.

    Singer Quick Timeline:

    • 2009 – Company founded; first restoration presented at Monterey Car Week
    • 2014 – First all-wheel-drive and Targa restorations completed
    • 2017 – Singer Reimagined watch company launched
    • 2018 – DLS services presented
    • 2022 – Classic Turbo services presented

    About Singer

    Singer is not sponsored, associated, approved, endorsed nor, in any way, affiliated with Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche, AG. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG is the owner of numerous trademarks, both registered and unregistered, including, without limitation, the Porsche Crest®, Porsche®, and the model numbers and names and the distinctive shapes of the Porsche automobiles, such as the federally registered 911 automobile. Any mention of Porsche Cars North America, Inc., or Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche, AG. trademarked names or other marks is for purpose of reference only.

  • Bentley Batur Completes Development Program

    Bentley Batur Completes Development Program

    • Brace of Baturs complete whole vehicle development programme
    • Two cars combine for 58 weeks of total durability work
    • Batur’s W12 engine completes two-year development and test regime
    • Tests included more than 30,000 kilometres of real world driving in varied conditions
    • More than 800 parts exclusive to Batur – all tested to the highest standards of durability
    • 750 PS W12 Batur will be the most powerful Bentley to date – the ultimate grand tourer 
    • Personal commissioning of 18 customer cars continues

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England –  Bentley’s ultimate grand tourer, the coachbuilt Batur by Mulliner, has completed its whole vehicle development programme, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of performance and durability. Work now commences on the build of customer cars, each of which will feature an exceptional level of bespoke craftsmanship and take around four months to handcraft – with the last one to be completed at the end of 2024.

    Following on from the creation of two development vehicles (known as Car Zero and Car Zero-Zero), just 18 Batur customer cars will be produced by hand in the Mulliner workshops. However, no concession has been made in Bentley’s rigorous testing regime, which includes durability tests on handling tracks, real-world road conditions, high speed testing beyond 200 mph, and rough surfaces. Other tests included 600 hours of solar loading, equivalent to five years in an Arizona desert, to ensure that the sustainable materials used in the Batur’s construction will be robust enough to endure a lifetime’s use.

    The original development Batur – Car Zero 

    Car Zero is no ordinary development mule. It was built to the same levels of craftsmanship as each of the 18 customer cars to come. Its bespoke exterior finish, Purple Sector, is complemented by front splitters, side skirts and rear diffuser in a high gloss natural fibre finish. The main matrix grille in Gloss Dark Titanium is accented with contrast chevrons in a horizontal ombré pattern that flows from Purple Sector in the centre, gradually darkening to Black Crystal at the periphery. The ‘endless bonnet’ line is finished in Satin Titanium, as are the 22” wheels which feature spokes in Gloss and Satin Black Crystal.

    A second development Batur, Engineering Car Zero-Zero, is finished in the equally striking Marina Teal finish. These bespoke finishes, and new components such as the one-off LED headlamp units, faced a series of tough durability tests, which included a 2,500 km European tour, high speed testing at closed circuits, and extended exposure to the harshest environments. In total, over 800 unique and one-off components have been tested and proved in 160 simultaneous weeks of intensive development work.

    The most powerful Bentley to date

    The W12 engine that powers Batur can trace its origins back to the Continental GT of 2003. The W12 has both literally and figuratively powered Bentley’s ascent to the pinnacle of automotive luxury brands. It has continued to evolve, becoming more powerful, refined and efficient with each successive generation. Now, as Bentley begins its journey to full electrification, the Batur’s W12 represents a celebration of this remarkable engine as well as its swansong. Its 750PS peak output makes it the most powerful W12 and therefore the most powerful Bentley powertrain ever built. Its new air intake system, modified turbochargers, revised intercoolers and new calibrations for engine, transmission and electronic stability control were tested to the limit in over 100 weeks of powertrain development. The engine’s breath-taking performance is matched to the most advanced Bentley chassis specification ever. Highlights include Speed-tuned air suspension, electric active anti-roll control, eLSD, four-wheel steering and torque vectoring. 

    A new coachbuilding era

    The advanced technologies used to create Batur make it possible for Mulliner to offer customers a level of individuality unheard of in the modern era. New sustainable materials such as natural fibres and technologies such as Additive Manufactured Gold give Mulliner’s designers a near-infinite palette of choice, enabling customers to realise their unique vision of the ultimate grand tourer. Every detail has also had to pass development scrutiny, including the 18ct yellow gold options for the Charisma Dial and the Organ Stop air vent control. Made from recycled, 3D printed gold, these parts have been subjected to tests as wide-ranging as thermal loading to resistance to sun cream.

    The first customer cars 

    Having passed every test with flying colours, Batur is now ready for the next stage of its journey. All 18 examples of Batur have already been reserved, and each customer can now continue the process of co-creation, guided by Mulliner’s in-house design team. After the customer specification of the colour and finish of almost every surface of the Batur, each unique car will be handcrafted in the coming months at Mulliner’s workshop in Bentley’s carbon neutral factory in Crewe, England, with each one taking around four months to complete.

  • The Grassi 044S is Born: A New Era Begins.

    The Grassi 044S is Born: A New Era Begins.

    [source: Scuderia Milanese Grassi ]

    The 044S is born: a new era begins! Scuderia Milanese Grassi presented its latest creation in world preview: the 044s off-road car . An extraordinary welcome among sports car enthusiasts, collectors and international industry editors who attended the inaugural event during the latest edition of MIMO (Milano Monza Motorshow), scheduled from 16 to 18 June 2023, at the Monza racetrack.

    With a promise to combine breathtaking design, extraordinary performance and cutting-edge technology, Scuderia Grassi has redefined the standards of luxury sports cars and stunned everyone.

    Revolutionary design

    The 044s special series was designed by designer Giuseppe Armano, formerly of the Alfa Romeo Style Center from 1994 to 2012, where he took part in several successful design projects for the Milanese car manufacturer. After several collaborations with international companies, he is currently head designer at Zard, a leader in the motorcycle accessories sector.

    Armano has expertly interpreted the requests of Scuderia Grassi with the right balance, recreating the lines and distinctive elements typical of the iconic cars that have made the history of the Group B World Rally Championship.

    Grassi and Armano have created a work of art on wheels, without starting from a donor car . The sculpted contours, sinuous shapes and impeccable finishes give the car the right balance of style. An aggressive and dynamic look, which helps give the new 044s a scenic presence and an unprecedented sporty soul.

    Uncompromising performance

    Scuderia Grassi has made no compromises in terms of performance . The 044s supercar will be powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo, 4-cylinder in-line enginecapable of delivering over 650 horsepower . It will allow acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in less than 3 seconds, with a top speed of over 300 kilometers per hour. Thanks to the use of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum and latest-generation materials, the car, which does not exceed 1200 kg, will be agile and easy to handle despite its exceptional power.

    Cutting-edge technology

    Scuderia Grassi will equip the 044s with a series of cutting-edge technologies to ensure an engaging and safe drive. The intelligent traction control system will constantly adapt the distribution of power to the wheels to maximize grip and stability when cornering.

    Exclusivity and customization

    Like any authentic custom car, the Grassi 044s will be produced in limited numbers, only 44 examples . Each of these will be unique and customizable, without any starting donor car. This means that the user will be able to choose from a wide range of options to satisfy the tastes and preferences of each enthusiast.

  • Aston Martin Unveils its First Ultra-Luxury Flagship, Q New York 

    Aston Martin Unveils its First Ultra-Luxury Flagship, Q New York 

    • Experience unmatched British tailoring with unique craftsmanship and highly tuned intensity at the Home of Aston Martin in Manhattan
    • Aston Martin’s first ultra-luxury flagship location on 450 Park Avenue, in the heart of New York City
    • Q New York provides an exclusive and immersive entry into the thrilling world of Aston Martin
    • Offering an ultimate blend of digital and physical car configuration, the new location brings the very highest levels of the Q by Aston Martin bespoke service 
    • Flagship opening builds on Aston Martin’s long-standing commitment to luxury craft and the growing trend of personalisation

    [source: Aston Martin]

    New York City, NY – Where Savile Row meets Park Avenue. Aston Martin proudly opens the doors to Q New York, its first ultra-luxury flagship on 450 Park Avenue, in New York City.

    The new location brings the highest levels of the iconic British brand’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin to North America for the very first time, providing the most sophisticated luxury specification experience available anywhere in the world.

    The first-of-its-kind landmark location forms a key pillar of Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury brand and customer experience strategy, with the commitment to provide the very best possible environment for its most discerning clients to create their own intimately personal Aston Martin.

    Conscientiously designed to immerse onlookers into the thrilling world of Aston Martin, visitors on Park Avenue are greeted by a unique window installation of epic proportion, named the ‘Champagne Frame’. Created with one of the largest single panes of glass ever installed into a New York building, the grand window frame looks into the stars – Aston Martin’s most iconic models – which are carefully illuminated by an impressive 2,100 bulb chandelier – spanning 40-metres (131-foot). Meanwhile, the use of mosaic tiles and commanding dining tables helps define the new flagship, bringing the best of British to one of the most prominent streets in the world.

    The new location will serve as a showcase and launch venue for Aston Martin’s latest products, from unique special builds to limited-edition models and newcomers to Aston Martin’s breath-taking portfolio. From today, the flagship proudly displays the all-new DB12 in North America for the very first time, in addition to the era-defining Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro hypercar.

    Q New York offers an ultimate blend of digital and physical car configuration. As part of a custom-made appointment, clients will be able to visualise their personalised Aston Martin on a 10.5 metre (35-foot) x 3.5 metre (10-foot) LED wall capable of providing an ultra-high definition, 360-degree view of any Aston Martin in real-life size. Sitting at the intersection between the physical and digital worlds, Aston Martin’s intention is to provide such a realistic configuration that clients feel as though they could open the door to their car.

    Use of the most innovative Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology will facilitate a seamless, high-end customer specification service, allowing clients to combine the sensorial touch and feel of physical colour and trim samples with live configuration on screen.

    A live video link from Manhattan to Aston Martin’s design studio in Gaydon, UK, enables real-time communication with the brand’s renowned designers and the Q by Aston Martin team, providing the most bespoke and sophisticated commissioning experience available outside of a personal visit to headquarters.

    Offering a concierge experience, carefully curated high-end dining and overnight travel experiences will also be available for those seeking to extend and elevate the experience of creating their own Aston Martin.

    Q by Aston Martin represents a key pillar of Aston Martin’s ultra-luxury strategy, giving clients the ultimate sense of freedom and expression when customising their cars. Whilst a long-standing part of Aston Martin’s DNA, this bespoke service facilitates the growing trend of personalisation across the luxury goods segment.

    Recent years have seen significant growth for the Q by Aston Martin division with a record number of Aston Martin units sold with bespoke touches and elements in 2022, representing a 51% year-on-year increase. Notably, the Americas is the fastest growing region for Q by Aston Martin, with 92% year-on-year growth in 2022.

    Special and limited-edition models have supported this growth, following the introduction of specific Q by Aston Martin: Collection options. These carefully-selected collections are fully costed and visible on the Aston Martin configurator, acting as a significant gateway to introducing customers to the world of Q by Aston Martin and demonstrating the possibilities of this most intimate of services.

    Q by Aston Martin: Commission, the very highest level of the bespoke service, takes customers on an even more exclusive journey that involves a personal collaboration with the Aston Martin design team. This provides an unrivalled opportunity to create a truly bespoke, individual car, with customers known to invest upwards of 30% of the car’s original retail value to add their own mark and achieve a truly bespoke creation.  

    Located on one of the most prominent corners of Midtown Manhattan, Q New York unites both the handcrafted and high-tech nature of Aston Martin, showcasing the very best of British craftsmanship and engineering against the backdrop of an immersive specification experience, thanks to state state-of-the-art technology.

    Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin said: “The opening of our first flagship Q location, in our largest commercial market, is the latest distinct expression of Aston Martin’s shift to an ultra-luxury brand. It demonstrates our ambition to drive global growth and create elevated customer experiences to match our owners’ passion for Aston Martin.

    “We recognise the growing trend of personalisation across the luxury goods segment and see huge value in investing in our customer experience to create the best specification experiences available anywhere in the world. With a 92% increase in Q by Aston Martin take-up in the Americas last year, this is the perfect time and the perfect place for us to open our very first global flagship location.”

    The design principles of the space are built upon quintessentially British architecture, including extensive use of mosaic tiles, chandeliers, beautifully framed grand windows, fireplaces, and mantel pieces, as well as large scaling dining tables.

    Ensuring the space reflects the latest design trends befitting of 21st century Manhattan, an extensive level of attention has been paid to adapting materials and furnishings, all of which are underlined with a conscious awareness of sustainable materials and practises, in line with Aston Martin’s Racing. Green. sustainability strategy. 

    Marek Reichman, Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Aston Martin said: “Creating wondrous places, spaces and experiences are important design statements for us. And just as we belong in Formula One as British makers of ultra-luxury high-performance sports cars, Aston Martin belongs in New York City. It’s a place where dreams come true.

    “We have created Q New York as a landmark across the Atlantic where our customers can collaborate with our designers to make their own lifelong Aston Martin dreams come true.

    “This is our version of creative performance design and precision craft at their finest – with sights and sounds, shapes and forms, and vivid colours and textured materials – all presented using the latest technology to provide customers with the engaging Aston Martin experience that they deserve.”

    Q New York is now officially open at 450 Park Avenue, with appointments available to be scheduled by any Aston Martin dealer.

  • Bentley Batur Specifications Showcase Depth of Mulliner Personalization

    Bentley Batur Specifications Showcase Depth of Mulliner Personalization

    • Customer commissioning process begins for Bentley Batur – the latest pinnacle coachbuilt Grand Tourer from Mulliner
    • Colour, Materials and Finishes team take inspiration from the cosmos to create new combinations of materials and colours
    • Four curated specifications demonstrate the unique capability of Mulliner to deliver to any customer’s imagination
    • Carbon fibre meets a more sustainable natural equivalent, crafted using flax fibres
    • Sustainably-sourced leathers complemented by coffee-based textiles
    • Precision-machined titanium and 3D-printed 18-karat gold provide exquisite metallic touches
    • Specification process underway for 16 of the 18 Baturs to be built

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England – The Batur is more than just a glimpse of Bentley’s future design. It will be a significant step towards the way future Bentleys will be made, using the planet-friendly materials and techniques needed for a more sustainable vision of luxury. Innovative technologies have been fused with luxurious materials, to create features never seen on a Bentley before. 

    Bentley’s Colour, Materials and Finishes team turned to the exploration of the cosmos for their inspiration in creating these specifications, utilising space-era materials and finishes to reflect the idea of a journey of exploration. For Mulliner customers, the ability to specify bespoke colours, materials and finishes is of the highest priority and the Batur demonstrates even further Bentley’s ability to use unique combinations of colour and materiality. 

    Carbon fibre is known for its incredible balance of strength with low weight – but it is not a sustainable material. New, natural alternatives to carbon fibre are now possible using high-performance composites made from flax – a sustainable ‘super-fibre’. Immensely strong and incredibly light, this material has proved suitable for use throughout the Batur, from the exterior body kit to the internal hard surfaces.  

    Where leather is used, it will be sustainably sourced, thanks to a production process that uses less water and aldehyde than traditional tanning. There will also be the option to select traceable, low-CO₂ leather – something that is only possible today in the low volumes involved in coachbuilding. Sustainable, leather-like textiles made from by-products of the coffee roasting process can even be selected, as can carpets made from recycled yarn.

    A wealth of innovative new finishes are available for the Batur. From hallmarked 18-karat yellow gold crafted using additive manufacturing, to aerospace-inspired titanium, and the composites and textiles detailed above, choices like these only add to the immense range of leathers, woods and other options. The only limit is the imagination of the individual customers.

    To offer some inspiration for customers, a number of examples have been created that demonstrate what is possible at this level of bespoke commissioning.

    Theme One – Nebula

    A bold specification pushing firmly towards a high performance-focused feel with dramatic contrasts of black against vivid greens on the exterior and interior. ‘Wasabi’ exterior paintwork ensures that this spectacular specification will ensnare the attention of onlookers everywhere it goes. Those who look closer will see a sleek Gloss Black Crystal finish on the body kit, adding a reflective, deep black’ edge to the car’s profile. 

    Inside, the roles of the green and black are reversed, with a stunning ‘guitar fade’ across the laser-etched fascia, from gloss black to gloss carbon fibre.

    Theme Two – Supernova

    This stellar specification pairs smouldering Sunbeam paintwork with a high-impact interior – all to devastating effect. Atlantic Pearl Crystal detailing to the body kit adds contrast to the stunning exterior. 

    The cabin is upholstered with a vibrant combination of Indigo Night, Beluga, Ceramic Glaze and Hyperactive, making this the only theme to have a four colourway interior. On the laser-etched fascia, meanwhile, a stunning fade from gloss black to gloss Natural Fibre completes the picture and also includes a full titanium pack with machined detailing around the cabin.

    Theme Three – Hyperspace

    This specification has been designed to evoke a sense of speed, even when the car is at a standstill. A deep metallic Daybright Blue exterior features is contrasted by St James Red accents to the grille, the body kit and red brake calipers – a sports-inspired theme that hints at the power of the engine that lies in wait beneath the gleaming bonnet. 

    Inside, the rich darkness of the hides, fascias and fabrics is punctuated only by stripes of searing Pillar Box Red and the 18-karat gold Bentley Dynamic Drive Selector and ‘12 o’clock’ steering wheel centre band.

    Theme Four – Dark Matter

    The dark silver sheen of the duo-tone Fine Brodgar and Black Crystal paintwork blends seamlessly with the titanium detailing of the tailpipe finishers in this sleek, sophisticated specification. A closer look, however, reveals a spark of Cyber Yellow – adding an edge to the front grille and the underside of the spoiler. 

    The interior is upholstered in sumptuous Burnt Oak hides and encircle in a stunning ring of smooth, gloss graphene. The toned down interior graphic is further interplayed with Black Anodised Aluminium details and Beluga Black accents.

    The Art of Commissioning

    W.O. Bentley built the first car to bear his name in 1919. Immediately, his creations were in high demand – but he was an engineer, first and foremost. He made engines. He would affix them to a chassis, with wheels and a transmission system. The resulting machines were certainly cars – but to turn them into luxurious recreational vehicles, streamlined racing cars, or both, the services of a coachbuilder were required.

    From the Roaring Twenties onwards, Mulliner built bespoke bodies and cabins for some of the world’s most iconic Bentleys, including the famous R-Type Continental of 1952.

    Today, Mulliner operates as Bentley’s personal commissioning division, delivering everything from bespoke modifications to coachbuilt cars. It offers an exclusive, face-to-face service for customers who demand the rarest and most exquisite vehicles, often co-designing features and finishes to suit the unique tastes of the individual.

    Mulliner offers the opportunity to build a direct relationship with the designers who will bring any customer’s vision to life. In the world of bespoke automotive craft, Mulliner has no equal.

  • More MANUFAKTUR Options for Mercedes-AMG SL

    More MANUFAKTUR Options for Mercedes-AMG SL

    • Special solid, metallic and magno paint finishes
    • Handcrafted materials
    • MANUFAKTUR Interior Package with exclusive colours

    [source: Mercedes-Benz]

    By taking advantage of the new MANUFAKTUR package, discerning customers are able to individualise their Mercedes-AMG SL even more extensively. There is a choice of eight MANUFAKTUR paint finishes: the two solid finishes MANUFAKTUR vintage blue and MANUFAKTUR silicon grey, the two metallic finishes MANUFAKTUR Côte d’Azur light blue metallic and MANUFAKTUR rubellite red metallic, and the four matt finishes MANUFAKTUR night black magno, MANUFAKTUR hightech silver magno[1], MANUFAKTUR graphite grey magno1 and – exclusively for the SL MANUFAKTUR – Ireland mid green magno1. The optional fabric soft top dyed in MANUFAKTUR midnight blue is another special feature for the Mercedes-AMG SL.

    The MANUFAKTUR Interior Package is available in seven MANUFAKTUR colour variants: MANUFAKTUR classic red/black, MANUFAKTUR mystic red/black, MANUFAKTUR rosé grey/black, MANUFAKTUR savannah beige/black, MANUFAKTUR tobacco brown/black, MANUFAKTUR yacht blue/black and MANUFAKTUR shadow green/black.

    The Interior Package includes seats upholstered in MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather. They feature elaborate diamond quilting. The AMG emblem is embossed into the front head restraints. Nappa leather in MANUFAKTUR colour is also used for the armrests and centre panels of the doors, the centre console including centre armrests, and the lower section of the dashboard. Another highlight of the Interior Package is the hand-stitched AMG Performance MANUFAKTUR steering wheel lining in nappa leather matching the chosen upholstery colour. The deep-pile black floor mats feature an embroidered AMG logo and piping in nappa leather, with a particularly high-quality finish in the MANUFAKTUR interior colour.

    The illuminated door sill panels in the door apertures have AMG lettering and an exclusive MANUFAKTUR pattern. The centre console is embellished by MANUFAKTUR lettering with a high-gloss chrome finish. Its cursive script underlines the label’s claim to a high level of quality and craftsmanship.

    MANUFAKTUR is the individualisation range for exclusive paint finishes and high-quality interior appointments. Selected materials and craftsmanship perfect the design and ensure sensual experiences of a special kind. Customers receive a car of special value – manufactured according to their personal ideas and wishes.

    [1] Orderable from the 4th quarter of 2023

  • Range Rover Offers New SV Bespoke Service for Greater Personalization of Autobiography and SV

    Range Rover Offers New SV Bespoke Service for Greater Personalization of Autobiography and SV

    • Enhanced personalization: SV Bespoke commissioning service offers Range Rover Autobiography and SV clients an extended choice of materials, color combinations and finishes
    • Individually curated: With up to 391 interior material colorways and 230 colors in the SV Bespoke paint palette, as well as a Match to Sample service, clients can make their Range Rover truly unique
    • Custom made: SV Bespoke commissioning service represents the pinnacle of personalization with unique embroidery and detailing available 
    • Extended range: Newplug‑in electric hybrid with 542hp delivers a hushed EV range of up to 51 miles for serene progress (2)
    • V8 power:V8 features mild hybrid technology, while Range Rover SV is now available with powerful new 606hp powertrain 
    • Advanced innovations: Dynamic Response Pro3 electronic roll control takes composure to the next level while Terrain Response® introduces Adaptive Off‑Road Cruise Control with Country Road Assist technology (6)
    • Elegant  beauty:Range Rover can be ordered now. Configure yours here: https://www.landroverusa.com/vehicles/range‑rover/index.html

    [source: Land Rover]

    Mahwah, NJ – Range Rover is setting a new modern luxury benchmark with the introduction of an SV Bespoke commissioning service, offering clients enhanced levels of personalization and refinement. 

    The service is available on Range Rover Autobiography and SV models, while a suite of enhancements across the line‑up maintains Range Rover vehicle’s status as perhaps the world’s most desirable luxury SUV. Range Rover is considered the original luxury SUV and has led by example for more than 50 years, combining serene comfort and composure with extraordinary capability.

    Further updates to Range Rover include the latest generation Pivi Pro (1) infotainment, while the new plug‑in electric hybrid is more powerful than before. Range Rover V8 now features mild hybrid technology, a new 606hp variant is introduced on the exclusive Range Rover SV for ultimate power.

    “Range Rover is synonymous with exclusivity and luxury. Now, with the new SV Bespoke commissioning service, we invite our most discerning clients to become the creator of their truly unique vehicle – choosing the finishes they desire and being guided by our Design team. By blending enhanced personalization with peerless refinement and unmatched capability, Range Rover continues to deliver the ultimate in modern luxury.” – Geraldine Ingham, Managing Director, Range Rover

    SV BESPOKE

    The SV Bespoke commissioning service represents the pinnacle of personalization and is available on Range Rover Autobiography and Range Rover SV. To achieve their perfect specification, clients can curate their Range Rover vehicle at the SV Bespoke Commissioning Suite in the UK, visit selected global retailers or for the ultimate convenience, complete their order online through an exclusive virtual service.

    SV Bespoke provides access to a vast range of materials, and interior and exterior finishes. Clients follow a unique and comprehensive seven‑step creation process that considers colors, themes, SV exclusive options, materials, veneers and finishers, customizations and personalization. Each finished vehicle promises to be as unique as its creator, although curated design combinations chosen by the Range Rover Design team are available to help clients make their dreams a reality.

    Inside, there are up to 391 material colorways available, while the curated SV Bespoke paint palette comprises more than 230 colors in satin and gloss finishes. Alternatively, the SV Bespoke Match to Sample paint service can replicate any exterior color request, providing limitless scope for individuality. 

    The level of craftsmanship available from the experts at SV Bespoke is exemplified by the attention to detail lavished on the Range Rover hood and tailgate script, which is available in a range of precious metal finishes including 24ct gold.  

    POWERTRAIN CHOICE 

    The Range Rover vehicle’s extensive powertrain line‑up has also been enhanced. The new powerful plug‑in electric hybrid engine in the P550e feature a new 160kW electric motor which, when combined with the 3.0‑litre six‑cylinder Ingenium gas engine, produces 542hp and 590 lb‑ft of torque. 

    The enhanced technology provides improved acceleration the P550e can sprint from or 0‑60mph in 4.8 seconds, down from 5.2 seconds (7).

    The effortless V8 uses Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology for the first time. The MHEV system delivers increased efficiency by harvesting energy captured when decelerating and braking, and improved responses as the stored energy is redeployed under acceleration. 

    A twin turbo V8 MHEV gas engine is also introduced and exclusive to the Range Rover SV, featuring an enhanced power output of 606hp and 553 lb‑ft, delivering smooth and powerful performance.

    INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY

    The Range Rover vehicles luxurious interior combines effortless connectivity and intuitive technology like never before with the latest generation Pivi Pro (1) infotainment. It provides a crisp and intuitive interface, enabling clients to control key vehicle functions via the elegant 13.1‑inch floating glass touchscreen.

    New sidebars with easy‑to‑use sliding controls for the volume and climate control provide immediate and precise operation for key functions directly, whatever menu screen is displayed, and approximately 80 percent of tasks can be performed within two taps of the home screen. Haptic feedback provides an added level of tactility and communication with the user. 

    Integrated Amazon Alexa voice AI (4) and Land Rover voice control systems help drivers to keep their eyes on the road while making changes to the cabin environment. Advanced Software Over The Air capability works to keep the Range Rover vehicle always up to date with the latest software, enabling the vehicle and its features to improve with age.

    New Country Road Assist technology features for the first time on Range Rover to enhance passenger comfort and reduce driver effort when using Adaptive Cruise Control (6). The intelligent system uses navigation data to automatically adjust the target speed, taking into account bends in the road and changes to the speed limit, accelerating or decelerating the vehicle accordingly.

    Following its debut in the Range Rover, Dynamic Response Pro (3) takes driving composure to new heights. The powerful electric roll control technology (6) is designed to reduce body lean when cornering for a more engaging drive, using actuators capable of delivering up to 1033 lb‑ft of torque to each axle. 

    The Range Rover vehicle’s unmatched all‑terrain capability is also enhanced with the introduction of Adaptive Off‑Road Cruise Control. A feature of the advanced Terrain Response® 2 system, it helps drivers navigate tricky terrain by maintaining steady progress according to the ground conditions. Drivers can select one of four comfort settings and the system intelligently adjusts the vehicle’s speed accordingly, allowing the driver to focus solely on steering a path across tricky terrain (6). 

    The enhanced Range Rover line‑up is available now priced from $107,400 (5) in the US. Configure yours here – https://www.landroverusa.com/vehicles/range‑rover/index.html.

    About Land Rover
    Since 1948 Land Rover has been manufacturing authentic 4x4s that represent true ‘breadth of capability’ across the model range. Defender, Discovery, Discovery Sport, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque each define the world’s SUV sectors, with 80 per cent of this model range exported to over 100 countries.

  • McLaren Formula 1 Star Lando Norris Collects his Specially-Commissioned MSO McLaren 765LT Spider

    McLaren Formula 1 Star Lando Norris Collects his Specially-Commissioned MSO McLaren 765LT Spider

    • McLaren Formula 1 star designed 765LT Spider to his specification
    • McLaren special Operations (MSO) realises design using specialist craftmanship skills available to all McLaren customers
    • Lando’s McLaren 765LT Spider is one of just 765 cars with scintillating performance, ultra-light weight and engaging track-focused dynamics
    • Watch Lando collect his personalised McLaren 765LT Spider at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azuJ5QJvfjw 

    Formula 1 star Lando Norris has collected his own McLaren 765LT Spider, personalised by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) and originally presented to him at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, England.

    The 23-year-old chose a unique specification for his car, heavily influenced by his personal branding. The MSO Lando Norris 1 of 1 is instantly recognisable by its Gloss Blue Tint Visual Carbon Fibre exterior with contrasting Satin Visual Carbon Fibre details, which echoes the lightweight and strong material that has formed the basis of all McLaren road and race cars since the revolutionary MP4/1 Formula 1 car in 1981.

    The distinctive exterior finish of Lando’s 765LT is complemented by Satin Black wheels and is contrasted by Lando Yellow brake calipers, the same colour used for Lando’s own four stripe Graphic – reflecting his race number – which appears above the right-side eye socket and under the active rear wing, the latter feature visible only during high-downforce deployment. The wing also features MSO branding in Gloss Blue Tint Visual Carbon Fibre on a Satin Carbon Fibre insert on its upper surface.

    Other external features include all three Carbon Fibre Exterior Upgrade Packs, which incorporates the Front Splitter, Front fenders & Rear Diffuser, Air Intakes, Side Skirts and Door Mirrors. The roof Tonneau and Rear Aero Bridge are also finished in MSO Defined Carbon Fibre. The exterior is finished with the MSO Defined Carbon Fibre Hood, adorned with a lightweight Dark Chrome McLaren badge. In addition, the Stealth Pack adds a discreet finish to the Rear Wing mechanism and the Titanium Exhaust’s signature quad-exit.

    The interior continues Lando’s colour scheme, which is visible from the outside when the Retractable Hard Top – featuring a glass Electrochromic Roof – is lowered. The Carbon Fibre Racing Seats are trimmed in Navy Blue with Napier Stitching. In addition, the head rests are embroidered with Lando’s personal initial ‘LN4’ branding. There are also Navy Blue Alcantara and Napier Stitching highlights on the door and dash trim and the door appliques have a painted white pinstripe.

    There are additional hidden interior features, most noticeably the MSO Custom Dark Tint Carbon Union Flag Sill with Lando Graphic visible when opening the doors. Below the MSO Custom Steering Wheel with Blue Tint Carbon Fade, 12 O’Clock Marker in white and Lando Yellow Lando Graphic, is the MSO Custom Floor Mat – repeated on the passenger side – with LN4 branding and Napier Stitching, placed ahead of Blue Anodised Pedals. The distractive interior is completed with a unique MSO Dedication Plaque confirming the exclusive commission by Lando.

    The personalisation is complete with the keyfob finished in Gloss Blue Tint Visual Carbon Fibre with Lando Graphic in Lando Yellow.

    The McLaren 765LT is the latest car to carry the hallowed Longtail name, which was first associated with the legendary McLaren F1 GTR in 1997. The 765LT is powered by a 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine developing 765PS and 800Nm, delivering a blistering acceleration time of 0-200km/h in just seven seconds. Astonishing levels of driver engagement, ultra-light weight and sophisticated track-developed suspension contribute to a thrilling driving experience.

    With just 765 examples made – all of which have been sold – Lando’s McLaren 765LT Spider is one of the most exclusive of the production run. Watch Lando collect his car at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azuJ5QJvfjw 

    About McLaren Group: 
    The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

    Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

    The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

    With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

  • Tribute to an Engineering Icon: Bentley Speed Edition 12

    Tribute to an Engineering Icon: Bentley Speed Edition 12

    • Limited edition celebrates Bentley’s iconic W12 engine
    • ‘Speed Edition 12’ available as Bentayga, Flying Spur, Continental GT and Continental GTC
    • Only 120 each of the four Speed Edition 12 models to be produced
    • Unique design features include Edition 12 badging, treadplates, seat embroidery, fascia inlays, and numbered engine plaque
    • Blackline specification and black 22” Speed wheels with silver brake calipers accentuate a performance focus
    • Optionally available with a sophisticated new paint finish, Opalite 
    • Owners receive a commemorative 15 per cent scale W12 engine block
    • Production of W12 to end April 2024, after more than 100,000 units – the most successful 12-cylinder engine of the modern era

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England –  To celebrate the remarkable W12 engine that has powered its performance flagships and indeed the brand since 2003, Bentley has created the limited-edition Speed Edition 12. Powered by the most successful 12-cylinder engine of the modern era, the Speed Edition 12 models are a fitting farewell to an extraordinary engineering achievement.

    Based on the Speed specification Bentayga, Flying Spur, Continental GT and Continental GT Convertible, the Edition 12 package features many unique design enhancements. These include Edition 12 badging, numbered engine plaque, Edition 12 embroidery, colour graduated seat contrast stitching, and a fascia in Grand Black veneer with the engine firing sequence etched alongside an inlaid Edition 12 badge.

    Only 120 of each of four models will be produced, ensuring that the Speed Edition 12 will become a rare and sought-after tribute to an engine that has powered the company’s cars – and its fortunes – for two decades. 

    The Bentley W12

    In 2003, Bentley’s W12 engine heralded a new era for the company as the powertrain for the first all-new model under Volkswagen Group ownership, the Continental GT. The unique W-formation of the 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 enabled it to be 24 per cent shorter than an equivalent V12 with no compromise in power, efficiency, or refinement. Ever since, continuous evolution has seen a 37 per cent increase in power and a 54 per cent increase in torque, along with a 25 per cent reduction in emissions. In the Speed Edition 12 models, the W12 now develops up to 659PS (650 bhp) @ 5000-6000 rpm, while the famed Bentley ‘tidal wave’ of torque sees a peak of 900Nm reached at just 1500rpm and continuing unabated through to 5000 rpm. 

    Exterior: understated distinction

    The external features of the Speed Edition 12 models are subtle yet carefully curated, making it instantly recognisable to those in the know. Among the distinctive details are silver brake callipers, which are not available for any other Bentley model. Continental GT and Convertible models feature Speed Edition 12 badging on the front fender while Bentayga and Flying Spur models carry Edition 12 badges on the rear quarter together with the existing Speed badge. Opening the bonnet reveals a numbered Edition 12 plaque in pride of place on the engine’s cover.

    Other exterior features include Blackline specification exterior brightware, 22” black painted Speed alloy wheels, and self-levelling wheel badges. A new paint colour, Opalite (opalite; metallic uni; 6678; Bentley), is available as an option: a light grey-green, it has a subtle copper effect that glows in bright sunshine.  

    Interior: craftsmanship masterclass

    Edition 12 welcome lamps and illuminated treadplates greet driver and passengers to an interior of hand-crafted individuality. All Edition 12 models are available with Bentley’s Speed colour splits; the main colour, Beluga black can either be chosen as the sole upholstery colour or complemented by Brunel blue, Cricketball red, Linen or Orange. Veneer in each case is high gloss Grand Black.          

    Unique features of this limited edition include seats with Mulliner Silver piping and embroidered Edition 12 namestyle. The upper seat areas are quilted, and contrast stitched in a graduated three-colour ‘fade’ from Anthracite through Porpoise to Stratos. Quilted door panels are contrast stitched.

    The organ stop air vents are also unique, featuring the numeral ‘12’ machined from solid on the face of the control. As another delightful detail, the Grand Black veneer facia facing the front seat passenger features the firing sequence of the W12 engine etched alongside an inlaid Speed Edition 12 badge.

    Commemorative 15% scale model W12 block

    As a final touch, customers will receive a precise 15 per cent scale model of the Bentley W12 block as a commemorative artefact for display on desk, cabinet or shelf. The scale model W12 engines are cast using aluminium taken from a full-size W12 engine block and will serve as a permanent memento of one of Bentley’s most significant and powerful engines.

  • Extensive MANUFAKTUR Range for New Mercedes-AMG S-Class

    Extensive MANUFAKTUR Range for New Mercedes-AMG S-Class

    • Additional individuality and exclusivity
    • Selected materials processed to a high standard
    • MANUFAKTUR Interior Package with exclusive colours in exclusive nappa leather with diamond quilting

    [source: Mercedes-Benz]

    With the help of the new MANUFAKTUR range, interested customers can now customise their Mercedes-AMG S-Class even more extensively: special paint finishes and high-quality interior trim expand the choices.

    The two solid paints MANUFAKTUR vintage blue uni and MANUFAKTUR silicon grey uni are available for the exterior. In addition, there is MANUFAKTUR graphite metallic, MANUFAKTUR mystic blue metallic, MANUFAKTUR olive metallic and MANUFAKTUR rubellite red metallic. The selection of paints with matt finish includes MANUFAKTUR night black magno and MANUFAKTUR kalahari gold magno.

    The Interior Package includes the front and rear seats finished in MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather. They feature elaborate diamond quilting. The AMG emblem is embossed in the front head restraints. Nappa leather in MANUFAKTUR colour is also used for the armrests and centre panels in the doors, the centre console including centre armrests and the lower section of the instrument panel. Another highlight of the Interior Package is the AMG Performance MANUFAKTUR steering wheel covered by hand in nappa leather, colour‑coordinated with the respective interior colour. The high-pile black floor mats feature an embroidered AMG logo and piping in nappa leather in a particularly high-quality finish in the MANUFAKTUR interior colour. The illuminated door sill trims in the door cut-outs bear the AMG lettering and a MANUFAKTUR exclusive pattern.

    Five MANUFAKTUR colour combinations are available for the Interior Package in the Mercedes-AMG S-Class: MANUFAKTUR yacht blue/black, MANUFAKTUR nut brown/black, MANUFAKTUR deep white/black, MANUFAKTUR truffle brown/black and MANUFAKTUR pastel yellow/black.

    The centre console is adorned with MANUFAKTUR lettering with shiny chrome finish. It is executed in cursive and thus emphasises the label’s claim to quality craftsmanship. This also applies to the embroidered, handwritten MANUFAKTUR lettering in the rear shelf.

    In addition, there is an Emblem Package in platinum or gold: the floor mats are embroidered with the AMG logo in the respective colours. In addition, the customer receives ambient lighting at all four doors with animated projection of the AMG logo.

    MANUFAKTUR is the individualisation range for exclusive paint finishes and high-quality interior appointments. Selected materials and craftsmanship perfect the design and ensure sensuous experiences of a special kind. Customers receive a car of special value – manufactured according to their personal ideas and wishes.