Wanderlust

Category: Special Editions

  • MCL38 Celebration Edition Artura and 750S supercars Honor McLaren’s F1 Championship

    MCL38 Celebration Edition Artura and 750S supercars Honor McLaren’s F1 Championship

    • MCL38 Celebration Edition Artura and 750S mark McLaren winning its ninth Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship
    • Just nine Artura and nine 750S MCL38 Celebration Edition cars globally
    • Bespoke exterior livery echoes McLaren Formula 1 colours of signature Papaya Orange and Anthracite, with branding of Champions’ Laurel and Nine-Star logos
    • Both models feature Visual Carbon Fibre Sill Covers personally signed by drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri
    • ‘MCL38’ dedication plaque on each car incorporates a piece of carbon fibre bodywork from 2024 MCL38 Formula 1 car

    [source: McLaren]

    Eighteen McLaren customers will have the opportunity to be a part of the brand’s commemorations of winning the 2024 Formula 1 World Constructors’ Championship, following confirmation that a very limited production run of MCL38 Celebration Edition supercars are to be built. Just nine Celebration Edition Arturas and the same number of 750S will be offered for sale, the number of each chosen to mark McLaren’s ninth Constructors’ Championship victory.

    McLaren won the 2024 Formula 1 World Constructors’ Championship at the season-closing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, having led the standings since the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in September. Drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri accrued a combined eight pole positions and six Grand Prix victories with the McLaren MCL38 on their way to the team’s first such success since 1998.

    The ultra-exclusive Celebration Edition cars are named in honour of the MCL38 2024 World Constructors’ Championship-winning Formula 1 car. Both models feature a bespoke livery curated by McLaren Special Operations, reflecting the Papaya Orange and Anthracite colourways that distinguish McLaren within the motorsport world and incorporating the chevron colour transition that has become synonymous with the brand. A Champions’ Laurel and ‘Nine-Star’ logo are proudly displayed, alongside additional orange accents including a bonnet stripe that features a Champions’ Laurel and brake calipers.

    “The relentless pursuit of excellence is intrinsic to the McLaren mindset and in 2024 we demonstrated this with incredible success on both the track and the road. The achievements of Zak Brown, Andrea Stella, Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri and the entire McLaren Racing team in winning the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship are beyond inspirational – and what better way to mark this than with an ultra-exclusive Celebration Edition of our award-winning Artura and 750S. Just nine examples of the Artura and nine of the 750S MCL38 Celebration Edition cars will be produced, each proudly commemorating McLaren’s most recent championship victory as well as delivering the exhilarating and unbeatable driving experience inherent in our world-class supercars.” 
    Michael Leiters, CEO, McLaren Automotive

    The interior of the MCL38 Celebration Edition is equally striking, with the Visual Carbon Fibre Extended Sill Cover on the driver’s side personally signed by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and Champions’ Laurel on the seat headrest section. Each example of the nine Artura and nine 750S MCL38 Celebration Edition carries a bespoke and rare souvenir – an MCL38 dedication plaque incorporating a genuine section of carbon fibre bodywork from an MCL38 Formula 1 car. An additional bespoke track record plaque, located in the bonnet storage area, lists the pole positions, race wins and fastest laps recorded by the MCL38 Formula 1 car during the victorious 2024 season.

    The unique features include:

    McLaren Artura MCL38 Celebration Edition

    • Bespoke painted livery
    • Visual Carbon Fibre Extended Sill Cover signed by Lando and Oscar and MCL38 Formula 1 car line graphic
    • Dedication plaque incorporating MCL38 Formula 1 car bodywork
    • Champions’ Laurel on headrest
    • Bespoke track record plaque
    • Papaya 12 o’clock steering wheel marker

    McLaren 750S MCL38 Celebration Edition

    • Bespoke painted livery
    • Visual Carbon Fibre Extended Sill Cover signed by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, with MCL38 Formula 1 car line graphic
    • Dedication plaque incorporating MCL38 Formula 1 car bodywork
    • Champions’ Laurel on headrest
    • Bespoke track record plaque
    • Visual carbon fibre steering wheel with papaya 12 o’clock steering wheel marker and papaya accent on the clasp
    • Papaya mirror stripe
    • Papaya stripe on the leading edge of the front splitter

    Like the MCL38 Formula 1 car, both the Artura and 750S have been decorated with awards in 2024* and owners of the Celebration Editions will be able to experience the astonishing performance of a McLaren supercar, whether it is the Artura’s 3-litre V6 hybrid powertrain or the 750S’s 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8. Both models feature McLaren’s signature carbon fibre monocoque chassis and supreme aerodynamics, with the 750S also equipped with an active rear wing and Proactive Chassis Control III suspension system.

    About McLaren Automotive:
    McLaren Automotive is a producer of ultra high-performance, lightweight supercars. Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

    Headquartered at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC) in Woking, Surrey, England, McLaren Automotive is driven by the challenge of creating the world’s most exhilarating, engaging and benchmark setting vehicles. Leveraging over 60 years of history in authentic, racing performance, McLaren has delivered some of the most spectacular supercars ever made.

    The company’s product portfolio of GTS, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed in over 40 markets around the world. Its cars are assembled by hand at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC), based on the same campus as MTC in Woking.

    McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis technology into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

    Then in 1993 it designed and built the legendary McLaren F1 road car. Built around a carbon fibre chassis, it established McLaren’s supercar DNA, realised for the 21st century in 2011 with the introduction of the McLaren 12C – McLaren Automotive’s first production car.

    McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™, in 2013. Launching the Ultimate Series of vehicles, P1™ was followed by the McLaren Senna in 2018 and its track-only GTR derivative followed a year later. 2019 also saw the introduction of the Speedtail hybrid hyper-GT and at the end of the year the  open-cockpit Elva roadster – the lightest McLaren road car ever – was announced.

    McLaren’s LT models represent the ultimate expression of track performance in series production supercars. Limited in volume, they are distinguished by a name coming from the ‘Longtail’ version of the F1 GTR, which first raced in 1997. The LT designation was incorporated into McLaren Automotive nomenclature in 2015 with the arrival of the 675LT coupe and 675LT Spider. In 2018, the McLaren LT portfolio grew with the announcement of the 600LT, and in 2020 and 2021 respectively the 765LT coupe and 765LT Spider were introduced.

    Also in 2021, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura. The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

    2022 saw McLaren announce the Solus GT, a single-seat, closed-cockpit track car which brought to life a futuristic concept that was originally created for virtual gaming.

    In 2023, McLaren unveiled its lightest and most powerful series-production supercar, the 750S – a thorough development of the award-winning 720S supercar. McLaren also introduced the new GTS, replacing the McLaren GT.

    The McLaren Artura Spider was revealed in early 2024 as the brand’s first high-performance hybrid convertible. Its introduction was part of a major model year uplift for the Artura nameplate, and meant McLaren’s series-production line-up of GTS, new Artura and 750S had been introduced within 12 months of each other.

    A new chapter in the McLaren ‘1’ car story was announced in October 2024, with the reveal of the McLaren W1 supercar. A clear successor to the McLaren F1 and McLaren P1TM, the W1 is the manifestation of McLaren’s World Championship mindset, with epic power and performance and new heights of dynamic and aerodynamic excellence.

    McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dynisma, Gulf, Pirelli, Richard Mille and Tumi.

    About McLaren Group: 
    The McLaren Group is a global leader in high-performance supercar production and elite motorsports.

    Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars and races them in global series, including the World Endurance Championship; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in six racing series.

    The team competes in FIA Formula 1 World Championship, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the ABB FIA Formula E World, the Extreme E Championship as the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, and F1 Academy with ART Grand Prix, and the F1 Sim Racing Championship.

    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.

  • Rolls-Royce Announces Black Badge Spectre

    Rolls-Royce Announces Black Badge Spectre

    • Black Badge Spectre is the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history
    • Development informed by hundreds of thousands of miles of anonymised Black Badge client driving data
    • Early client demand prompted creation of a clandestine fleet of Black Badge Spectres
    • New Infinity Mode changes driving character and summons 485 kW (659 hp) of power, delivered effortlessly
    • Black Badge aesthetic denotes a more visceral Rolls-Royce driving experience: coloured canvas behind Illuminated Pantheon Grille, new Vapour Violet colour inspired by the neon lights of 1980s and 1990s club culture, Illuminated Black Badge Treadplates, Technical Fibre, Illuminated Fascia
    • Spirited Mode, inspired by Rolls-Royce Merlin engine feature, unlocks landmark 1075 Nm of torque
    • Black Badge is Rolls-Royce’s formidable alter ego, made for clients who fearlessly reject convention

    [source: Rolls-Royce]

    “Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made. It has been created in the image of our boldest and most audacious clients, with meticulous attention to detail. From the beginning of Black Badge Spectre’s journey, the clients who requested this extraordinary motor car dared us to share their fearless spirit. In response, our engineers combined data science, qualitative feedback, and their own deep knowledge of the brand’s alter ego to craft an intense and uncompromising character, and the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history. Reflecting the Black Badge character, our designers and artisans realised their most dramatic and provocative vision with vivid details and exquisite contemporary crafts. The result is Black Badge Spectre: the alter ego of our brand, amplified.”
    Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

    “The development of Black Badge Spectre began with our deep understanding of engineering the uncompromising nature of the Black Badge character, overlaid with the detailed analysis of client feedback and their driving style. Black Badge owners from around the world permitted our specialists to access their anonymised data, enabling us to create a new driving experience perfectly suited to – and validated by – the way our clients use their motor car. Following internal development, a small tranche of ‘secret’ Black Badge Spectres was built for a group of clients who requested the earliest possible access to this motor car. They emphatically approved of our engineering response, highlighting the powerful connection between Rolls-Royce and its clients.”
    Dr Bernhard Dressler, Director of Engineering, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveils Black Badge Spectre – the marque’s alter ego, amplified. In addition to debuting bold exterior finishes, vivid interior details, and innovative opportunities for Bespoke, Black Badge Spectre can summon a four-figure torque output (1075 Nm), with a record 485 kW (659 hp) of power. This makes Black Badge Spectre the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history.

    In every way, Black Badge Spectre is Rolls-Royce at its most potent and audacious – which perfectly captures the spirit of the bold individuals it has been created for, and who requested it. Black Badge clients are unique within Rolls-Royce – building their success on pushing boundaries and refusing to be defined by traditional codes of luxury. Their approach to luxury is no different. They accept nothing less than the most exquisitely crafted products and uncompromising experiences, but demand a dynamic edge and an unapologetic attitude that reflects their world, their story, and their daring.

    The decision to craft such a potent motor car was driven by the extraordinary expectations of the marque’s Black Badge clients. Their rigorous demands required an equally formidable engineering response, built on Rolls-Royce’s profound understanding of what a Black Badge should be: effortlessly intense, immediate, and precise.

    To ensure this philosophy accurately reflected how clients use their motor cars in the field, a group of Rolls-Royce owners granted engineers access to their anonymised driving data, allowing drivetrain specialists to quantitatively analyse their driving behaviour across hundreds of thousands of collective miles. This revealed that clients exploited maximum power in short pulses more than over extended periods. This insight provided powerful validation of the marque’s approach, perfectly matching the dramatic, intense character of the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever created – meticulously developed in the image of this bold client group.

    HARNESSING FORMIDABLE POWER
    For Black Badge Spectre, the concept of formidable bursts of power is taken to an extreme with two powertrain innovations. Although these functions are new for a Rolls-Royce motor car, they have a historical precedent. In aircraft powered by the legendary Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, including the Supermarine Spitfire, pilots could obtain a burst of additional power by pushing a switch on the throttle quadrant. While the robust Merlin engine was easily able to accommodate these temporary pulses, pilots were required to report the use of the function on landing as a precaution to flight engineers – a requirement that does not apply to Black Badge Spectre drivers today.

    The first innovation is a unique Infinity Mode, a tribute to the Infinity symbol used to signify a Black Badge Rolls-Royce. Unlocked by pressing the Infinity ∞ button on the steering wheel, the full 485 kW (659 hp) of power is made available, providing a more direct throttle response to the driver. Once this mode is activated, the dials become more vibrant to match the change in the motor car’s character.

    Black Badge Spectre also features Spirited Mode, which allows the driver to experience a burst of intense, instantaneous acceleration. When the motor car is stationary, the driver engages this function by fully depressing the brake and throttle at the same time, waiting for a haptic and visual response signalling the car is ready, before fully releasing the brake. This temporarily amplifies the torque output to a landmark 1075 Nm, unleashing a surge of force and propelling the motor car from 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds.

    BLACK BADGE CHASSIS ENGINEERING
    Rolls-Royce chassis specialists have introduced a number of changes to inspire clients to wield the unprecedented power of Black Badge Spectre with confidence. The steering weight is increased and the roll stabilisation is adjusted to create more feedback from steering inputs and reduce body-roll during cornering. Enhanced dampers also increase body control, reducing ‘squatting’ under acceleration or deceleration. These revisions perfectly balance an enhanced sense of engagement with the effortless operation and fêted Magic Carpet Ride associated with Rolls-Royce motor cars.

    A CLANDESTINE AGREEMENT
    Our conversations with clients made it clear that they were eagerly anticipating this motor car’s arrival long before its official debut, compelled by the potential of Spectre reimagined through the bold, unwavering lens of Black Badge. In response to their frequent enquiries, Rolls-Royce granted a select group early access to this motor car on the condition that they would keep their ownership secret until the official unveiling – a discreet introduction that resonated with the rebellious spirit of these individuals. A small, highly exclusive fleet of clandestine Black Badge Spectres was commissioned for these individuals ahead of the motor car’s reveal. Their emphatically positive response to Black Badge Spectre, and the motor car’s daring treatment that had been developed in their image, provided powerful validation of the most potent Rolls-Royce in history.

    A DARKENED AESTHETIC  
    Black Badge Spectre makes its global debut in a new Vapour Violet paint finish, a deep black-violet inspired by the neon ambience of 1980s and 1990s club culture – a celebrated reference among many Black Badge clients. A painted Iced Black bonnet has also been introduced, creating a bold contrast that can be paired with the marque’s palette of 44,000 ‘prêt-à-porter’ colours. Alternatively, clients can develop a Bespoke hue reserved for their exclusive use, in collaboration with Rolls-Royce Bespoke designers.

    In addition to the existing shoulder and fender coachline options, clients are now able to commission a ‘waft’ coachline, located on the lower half of the super coupé. This accentuates a crisp design line on the lower third of the motor car, subtly emphasising its commanding form and generous proportions.

    Black Badge Spectre also introduces a bold new 23-inch five-spoke forged aluminium wheel design. Available in a part-polished or all-black finish, the complex geometry subtly indicates the hidden technical complexity and potency of this motor car. Highlighting the increasingly broad geography of Black Badge clients, winter tyres are available for the new wheelset from launch.

    As with all Black Badge models before it, Black Badge Spectre’s mirror-polished brightwork is presented in a signature dark finish, signalling its subversive, noire character. This includes the marque’s hallmark Pantheon Grille surround, Spirit of Ecstasy, and the double ‘R’ Badge of Honour, as well as the motor car’s door handles, expansive side window surround and bumper accents.

    VIVID ILLUMINATIONS
    Furthering its commitment to advanced, contemporary crafts, Rolls-Royce has developed a unique feature that enhances and intensifies Black Badge Spectre’s Illuminated Grille. A new Illuminated Grille backplate has been introduced for the motor car, which is offered in Tailored Purple, Charles Blue, Chartreuse, Forge Yellow and Turchese, allowing clients to extend their chosen colour onto this new canvas, or create a unique accent to complement a coachline or the interior. This vibrantly coloured illumination can extend into the interior with newly developed Illuminated Black Badge Treadplates, which are available in ten complementary colours.

    A VIBRANT INNER SANCTUARY
    From the moment you enter Black Badge Spectre, its rebellious character is immediately apparent through the bold interior treatment.

    The unique pattern on the Illuminated Fascia, which is an abstract expression of the Spirit of Ecstasy, now incorporates the Infinity symbol used across the wider Black Badge family. A statement of infinite power, the emblem once marked historical water-speed records and is a hallmark trusted by adrenaline pioneers. The fascia comprises over 5,500 ‘stars’ of varying proportions and intensity, set in a Piano Black ‘sky’.

    Framing this advanced craft feature is a richly complex Technical Fibre surface finish. This diamond-shaped weave uses carbon and fine metal thread on top of a black Bolivar wood base. The thread is laid by hand in a diamond pattern between layers of carbon fibre, creating a three-dimensional effect. Once cured, each interior piece is sandblasted, sealed with six layers of lacquer, and hand-polished to a flawless finish, adding striking depth and clarity.

    The Black Badge Infinity symbol is further incorporated in the motor car, stitched into the leather ‘Waterfall’ section, which separates the rear seats.

    Black Badge Spectre’s instrument dials can be curated with a choice of five colour themes: Vivid Grellow, Neon Nights, Cyan Fire, Ultraviolet and Synth Wave, allowing clients to harmonise the physical and digital surfaces within their motor car via the SPIRIT operating system. This digital architecture of luxury also grants access to remote charging and location information, and the marque’s exclusive digital members club, Whispers.

    DRAMATIC BY DESIGN
    Black Badge Spectre is a motor car born of fearless expression and focus, meticulously crafted in the image of the daring individuals it was made to serve. Its landmark power output, chassis technologies, and expansive potential for Bespoke open a vivid new chapter in the highly successful stories of Black Badge – the formidable alter ego of Rolls-Royce.

    INSIGHTS: THE SPECTRE CLIENT AND THEIR MOTOR CAR
    Now in its second year of production, Rolls-Royce Spectre has established itself within the marque’s pantheon of super-luxury motor cars. With deliveries well underway, Rolls-Royce specialists have mapped key trends, revealing how clients use their Spectre and its role within their lives.

    Typically, Spectre is a client’s second Rolls-Royce and forms part of a seven-car garage, allowing them to select a motor car to suit every occasion. Yet, despite its exclusivity, Spectre is being driven extensively highlighting the confidence and enthusiasm of its owners. One client in Dubai has already completed more than 8,000 miles in their Spectre in a single year. Another, a renowned British entrepreneur, regularly drives their motor car on a 300-mile round trip between their business headquarters in Suffolk and the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood to review various commissions. Perhaps the most extensively driven Spectre belongs to a client in Slovakia, who commutes nearly 250 miles to Prague and has covered more than 6,000 miles in the first six months of ownership. They take particular pleasure in the electric motor car experience – having swapped coffee stops at traditional fuel stations for an elevated pause at a renowned café with a fast charger.

    On average, Spectre owners drive approximately 4,000 miles per year – a figure comparable to previous two-door Rolls-Royces, including Wraith, Dawn, and Spectre’s spiritual forebear, Phantom Coupé. This means clients technically only need to fully charge their motor car up to 20 times per year. The vast majority charge at home, reflecting the effortless nature of Spectre ownership. Spectre is also predominantly a driver’s car: nearly all journeys are taken by the owner alone, with only a quarter including a front passenger, reflecting the enjoyment of driving this uniquely potent and agile motor car for its own sake.

    Beyond its day-to-day usage, Spectre’s dynamic capability is also shaping how clients interact with their motor cars. One client, based in Gstaad, Switzerland, was so compelled by Spectre’s agility on the mountain passes of the region that they ordered a second motor car for use on the Corniche roads of the French Riviera, close to another of their properties in Monaco. Notably, this route was among those used by the marque’s engineers during Spectre’s Lifestyle Analysis testing phase, enabling critical refinements to the suspension and drivetrain to ensure the motor car met client expectations in the very environments where they would drive it.

    Demand for Spectre has exceeded expectations. In 2024, it was the second most-requested Rolls-Royce globally and the best-selling model in Europe. It also contained the second highest level of Bespoke content per motor car in the marque’s portfolio, reflecting its significance within Rolls-Royce’s contemporary offering. With Black Badge Spectre now making its debut, this extraordinary momentum is set to continue.

    TECHNICAL INFORMATION
    Black Badge Spectre: WLTP: Power consumption: 2.6-2.8 mi/kWh / 23.8-22.2 kWh/100km. Electric range 306-329 mi / 493-530 km. CO2 emissions 0 g/km.

    Further technical information: https://bit.ly/3XtQW7q

    You can also follow the marque on social media: LinkedIn; YouTube; Instagram; and Facebook.

    ABOUT ROLLS-ROYCE
    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a true luxury house, creating the world’s most recognised, revered and desirable handcrafted Bespoke products for its international clientele.

    There are over 2,500 people working at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, West Sussex. This comprises both its global headquarters and Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence – the only place in the world where Rolls-Royce motor cars are designed, engineered and meticulously built by hand. An independent study by the London School of Economics & Political Science confirms that since the company first launched at Goodwood in 2003, it has contributed more than £4 billion to the UK economy and adds more than £500 million in economic value every year.

    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a wholly owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and is a completely separate, unrelated company from Rolls-Royce plc, the manufacturer of aircraft engines and propulsion systems.

  • INEOS Teases Arcane Works with Grenadier Detour

    INEOS Teases Arcane Works with Grenadier Detour

    Though practically a brand-new company, INEOS and its tactile Grenadier lineup continue to make strides. Today, it’s the sharing of a first product from their Arcane Works division, which in INEOS speak is the name of their in-house tailoring service.

    What you see here is the Grenadier Detour. According to a post by INEOS on their social channels, the Detour is a limited-edition model created by Arcane Works. It features an 18-inch forged alloy wheel design we’ve not yet seen before on their existing model range. Inside, there’s a leather interior in a tan named Sahara Sand featuring unique V pattern embroidery.

    On the outside is also-new Squall Green metallic paint. It’s unclear at this time whether all Grenadier Detours will be painted Squall Green or not.

  • Lotus Launches Exclusive Race-Inspired Emira Limited Series for Europe

    Lotus Launches Exclusive Race-Inspired Emira Limited Series for Europe

    • 5 exclusive Emira Limited liveries, limited to just 12 units each
    • Emira Limited visualizes Lotus’ Formula one-inspired DNA
    • Prelude to European launch of Lotus ‘Chapman Bespoke’ personalization program in 2025

    [source: Lotus]

    Amsterdam, Netherlands –  Lotus unveils an exclusive Emira Limited series, based on its renowned four-cylinder Emira sports car, embodying a vivid homage to the brand’s legendary racing heritage. This collection features five distinctive liveries, each inspired by the iconic Lotus racing DNA, limited to just 12 units per design. Set to be available across 12 selected European markets, the Emira Limited series honours Lotus’s storied past with the symbolic “12” paying tribute to Formula One driver Ayrton Senna’s famous starting number during his Lotus years.

    The Emira Limited series also signals the beginning of a new era in customization, offering a preview of what’s to come with the ‘Chapman Bespoke’ personalization program, launching in 2025. With this vibrant introduction, the British marque hints at a future where each Lotus can be tailored to the personality and preferences of its driver, making each model truly unique. 

    Lotus Formula One inspired designs
    Beginning of this year, the ‘First Edition’ heralded the market launch of the Emira sports car equipped with the powerful mid-engined four-cylinder from technology partner AMG. Now Lotus extends the range with the Emira Limited. The distinctive bespoke exterior details of the 5 Emira Limited liveries are all factory supported and are actually part of the overall paintjob of the cars, applied in the Hethel factory in the UK. Apart from its special looks and exclusive black Lotus logos, the Emira Limited can be recognized by the stylish ‘Emira Limited 1/12’ badges on the B pillars and dashboard. The chosen color schemes are a clear reference to the historic Lotus Formula One cars. Some of the Emira Limited liveries also provide a direct, visible link to Ayrton Senna’s iconic starting number 12. To conclude, each Emira Limited comes with a certificate of authenticity, further enhancing the car’s uniqueness and ensuring its value to collectors.

    From 2025 onwards the new ‘Chapman Bespoke’ personalization program will provide European customers the opportunity to further add personal notes to their new Emira and all other models from the Lotus product portfolio in detail – both externally and in the interior.

    Five Emira Limited liveries
    Lotus will release the Emira Limited in five recognizable liveries, each inspired by different Lotus Formula one liveries from the past.

    • Emira inspired by the Lotus Type 99T: this vibrant yellow with blue accents recalls the Lotus Type 99T Formula 1 car with which Ayrton Senna competed successfully in the 1987 season. With Senna at the wheel, the Type 99T was the first F1 car with the Lotus innovation of active suspension to win a Grand Prix – Monaco – a feat that he repeated at Detroit; The Lotus Type 99T achieved eight podiums and helped Lotus and Senna to third places in the Constructors and Drivers championships. The iconic Lotus race number 12 is present on each side of the car in blue colour and tie in with the black brake calipers, front and side air intakes and the ‘LOTUS’ brand name on the rear.
    • Emira inspired by Type 97T: This is an elegant interpretation of the 1985 Formula 1 car, in which Ayrton Senna famously secured his first Grand Prix win, in the wet. Senna’s teammate, Elio de Angelis then won the following race at San Marino, with Senna gaining his second Grand Prix win later in the season at Spa-Francorchamps. Overall, the Type 97T achieved nine podiums that year and helped Lotus and Senna to third places in the Constructors and Drivers championships. It is a dark Shadow Grey with gold livery. The race number 12 is present on each side of the car also in the iconic gold and match the gold wheels.
    • Emira inspired by Type 86: In 1980 Lotus revolutionised the F1 world with the twin chassis Type 86. A one-off prototype for the following year’s groundbreaking Type 88, one chassis of the Type 86 fulfilled the aerodynamics supported the radiators, and the other chassis was for the driver and suspension, and to which the engine and gearbox were mounted. This Emira shows in a blue livery with red and silver stripes, the colours of the Team Lotus sponsor at the time. The ‘LOTUS’ brand name on the rear, and it features the number 11, both in matching silver.
    • Emira inspired by Type 78: The Type 78 pioneering 1977 Lotus Formula 1 car introduced the concept of an underfloor wing shape to create a low pressure, forcing the car into the ground through aerodynamics. This also had the potential of reducing drag and maximising downforce to achieve race-winning performance. The Type 78 was a very successful design, taking seven Grand Prix wins and eleven podiums through 1977 and into the early 1978 season. The Emira is in a dark Shadow grey and gold livery. Number 5 (Mario Andretti’s Type 78 race number in 1977 and 1978) with a half “Union Jack” is painted on the side and the gold and red details are carried over to the calipers and front splitter.
    • Emira inspired by Type 25: The Lotus Type 25 is one of the most important Formula One cars of all time. Famously driven by Jim Clark to the 1963 F1 Constructors and Drivers World Championships and winning 14 Grand Prix and achieving 18 podiums from 1962 to 1965 as it introduced the aircraft-style monocoque instead of the more conventional tubular spaceframe chassis. This gave benefits of strength, rigidity and safety and smaller cross-sectional area so that the Type 25 was the slimmest Formula 1 car the sport had ever seen. A significant safety feature of the Lotus Type 25 was the aircraft-style bag fuel tanks, mounted either side within the frame. They were lightweight, flexible and strong, reducing the chance of fuel leaks in the event of an accident. This Emira in a Dark Verdant Green body colour with painted Hethel Yellow striping and black brake calipers is reminiscent of the Type 25’s winning 1963 season. Its interior in Black Alcantara and Yellow stitching complete the racing-oriented design.

    The five x twelve Emira Limited units are now available to order from Lotus dealerships in the 12 European countries (Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Spain, Luxembourg, France, Sweden, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark) in which they are exclusively offered.

    Prices of the Lotus Emira Limited in Europe starting from €98.107

    More information on the Lotus Emira Limited and the legacy behind its historic liveries is available at lotuscars.com/emira/limited.

    Emira: an exciting ride
    The Emira marks the entrance to Lotus’ current production range, and together with the even more powerful Emira V6, pays tribute to a finite era of legendary Lotus models that solely rely on internal combustion engine power. With its smooth surfaces and sharp lines, the Emira overtly takes inspiration from the design of the Lotus Evija hypercar. Beneath its skin, and ahead of the rear axle, lies a 360 hp and 430 Nm strong 2.0-litre turbo engine from technology partner AMG, tuned by Lotus’ specialists in Hethel. The engine is combined with a lightning-fast 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the Emira, that combination provides a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 283 km/h. With which, as the basis for the exclusive Emira Limited, the Lotus Emira guarantees an agile and exciting driving experience, in full Lotus tradition.

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    About Lotus
    Lotus is a global performance car brand with a solid foundation and a rich heritage. Lotus has pioneered automotive innovation since its founding in 1948, applying cutting-edge technologies and designs based on its uncompromising vision of how a car should look, perform and feel. Lotus Group consists of Lotus Cars, a high-performance sports car brand, and Lotus Technology, a provider of all-electric and luxury mobility. Together, we set a new standard for excellence in automotive.

  • Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed: Exclusive Small Series Celebrates World Premiere

    Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed: Exclusive Small Series Celebrates World Premiere

    • Radical design concept to kick off the Mythos series
    • Commemorates the design language of legendary racing cars
    • Intensive driving experience for two people
    • Strictly limited, extensive equipment

    [source: Mercedes-Benz]

    Affalterbach/Abu Dhabi — As the first model in the strictly limited Mercedes-Benz Mythos series, the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed (combined energy consumption: 13.7 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 312 g/km | CO₂ class: G)1 is celebrating its world premiere at the Formula 1™ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The uncompromising realisation of a fully open, two-seater performance car with no roof or windscreen is a tribute to racing and offers an unforgettable driving experience.

    “The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed is the most direct way to experience performance and fun at the wheel. Thanks to the car’s radically open design with no roof or windscreen, nothing separates the driver and passenger from the elements, allowing them to fully appreciate the vehicle, the road and the landscape with all their senses. The striking design reinterprets elements of legendary racing cars and makes for a fascinating, timeless silhouette. In this way, the PureSpeed bundles the traditional strengths of AMG: highly emotional and very high performance vehicles that inspire – at a glance and behind the wheel.”
    Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Head of Business Units Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Mercedes-Maybach

    The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed celebrates Mercedes-Benz’s tradition in motorsport with its thrilling racing car design, innovative materials and modern technology. The exclusive small series is strictly limited to 250 models.

    Sports car design inspired by Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar
    The design of the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed is characterised by a combination of a low silhouette, a long bonnet and a very low front end with a distinctive shark nose. With its wide air intake, AMG lettering and a dark, chrome-plated Mercedes star on the soft nose, the front resembles the Mercedes-AMG ONE. In addition, the car features an aerodynamically optimised bonnet. The aerodynamics team’s extensive precision work is also evident in the small, partially transparent deflectors on the car’s front and sides, which keep turbulence from bothering the driver and passenger. Aerodynamic, sharply defined visible carbon fibre elements in the lower part of the car make for a strong contrast to the sensual, round shapes of its upper part. The boot lid and rear diffuser are also aerodynamically optimised. Their design takes the lack of a roof into account.

    The design of the 21-inch forged aluminium wheels is characterised by carbon fibre covers on the front and rear axles. The rear covers are fully closed for less air resistance. The front covers are open to optimise front end airflow and brake cooling. The front features 275/35 R 21 tyres on 9.5 J x 21-inch rims; the rear uses 305/30 R 21 tyres on 11.0 J x 21-inch rims.

    The design team’s precision work can also be seen in the side sill trim with aero flics. The muscular shoulders above the wide-track rear wheels merge into the elegant boot lid and the wide rear apron.

    HALO system in place of A-pillar
    Another highlight is the HALO system, which the car uses instead of the conventional A-pillar. This element was inspired by the premier class of motorsport and has been part of every Formula 1™ vehicle since 2018. It protects the driver’s head in the event of an accident. The safety system in the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed consists of a robust tubular steel bracket. The bifurcated safety feature is firmly attached to the car’s shell structure. The aerodynamically optimised component protects both passengers; as such, it bifurcates behind the car’s occupants. The roll-over protection system also features two rigid roll bars that are concealed beneath the aerodynamic scoops. These components are also part of the shell structure. As one interesting detail, HALO is indirectly lit at the bottom by narrow LED strips, taking ambient lighting to a new level.

    There are also two aerodynamically optimised helmets designed and manufactured specifically for the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed. They come in the colour of the car and have an intercom communication system. The helmets allow the driver and passenger to communicate clearly, even at high speeds. As an additional feature, smartphones can be paired with the intercom system, allowing the driver and passenger to talk on the phone and listen to music through the helmets’ speakers.

    A tribute to legendary Mercedes models
    Many other features are also a tribute to motorsport. The two scoops behind the seats bear the AMG emblem and are reminiscent of legendary racing cars such as the 300 SLR, the car that Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson drove to victory at the 1955 Mille Miglia (a 1,000-mile race) in Italy. Fittingly, the PureSpeed comes in an exclusive Silver Arrow finish in mystic silver magno.

    The optional motorsport styling package offers finishes that range from Le Mans red to graphite grey with a black AMG pattern. The latter is a tribute to the colour of the Mercedes that won the Targa Florio race in Sicily exactly 100 years ago. The car was finished in red, a colour only used by Italian manufacturers at the time.

    German racing cars, on the other hand, were traditionally white. The red finish was intended to prevent Italian motorsport tifosi from trying to obstruct the German car. The plan worked: With Christian Werner at the wheel, the Mercedes 2-litre racing car with the number 10 was the first to cross the finish line. To commemorate this victory 100 years ago, the motorsport styling package features a ‘10’ on the front wing.

    Two-tone colour and equipment concept
    With its classic two-tone colour and equipment concept in crystal white/black, the interior adds additional highlights. AMG Performance seats with special leather covers and unique decorative stitching offer optimal lateral support in addition to exclusive optics. Their design with flowing lines is inspired by the air that flows around the car. The heated multicontour seats increase the comfort level. The area behind the seats features carbon fibre. Integrated leather pads on the back continue the seats’ flowing lines, while the deep-pile AMG floor mats echo the seats’ colour, design and decorative stitching. The door sill trim also comes upholstered in leather. The AMG Performance steering wheel systematically continues the two-tone interior concept.

    Another interior highlight is the custom-made analogue clock designed by IWC Schaffhausen. It is prominently placed in the middle of the dashboard in a drop-shaped housing in glossy black on a base made of visible carbon fibre. The base of the clock features a sophisticated design that makes the clock appear to float. The premium chronometer has a PureSpeed specific dial with AMG rhombi. For optimum visibility, the dial is illuminated at dusk and in the dark. The characteristic bezel underscores the visual affinity with the legendary IWC Ingenieur Collection. The Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound System with 15 speakers and 1,170 watts of system power make for an authentic sound experience similar to a summer open air festival. A badge in the centre console reads ‘1 out of 250’ to indicate the model is part of the strictly limited Mythos series.

    To protect the car from inclement weather such as rain or storms when parked, a protective weather cover is available as standard. It is stretched over the interior, including the HALO, and fastened to the wheel arches in the traditional way. Each customer also receives a custom-made, PureSpeed specific AMG indoor car cover. With a breathable outer skin of tear-resistant synthetic fibres and an anti-static inner fabric of flannel, it protects the car from dust and scratches in the garage.

    Body shell: AMG sports car architecture with composite aluminium structure
    The PureSpeed is based on Mercedes-AMG’s sports car architecture. The chassis consists of an aluminium space frame with a self-supporting structure. This design ensures maximum rigidity, providing the perfect foundation for precise driving dynamics and sporty body proportions. The intelligent material mix reduces its weight. Materials used include aluminium, magnesium, fibre composites and steel. There are also carbon fibre parts for the aero elements at the front and rear aprons as well as the side sill and the trim behind the seats.

    Sophisticated aerodynamics for unadulterated fun at the wheel
    The car features a host of active aerodynamic elements, such as the extendible rear spoiler, which is seamlessly integrated into the boot lid. It changes its position depending on driving conditions. The control software takes numerous parameters into account, including driving speed, longitudinal and lateral acceleration and steering speed. The spoiler adopts five different angles at speeds above 80 km/h, allowing it to optimise driving stability or reduce drag, depending on its position.

    The active aerodynamic element concealed in the underbody in front of the engine also contributes to safe and dynamic handling. Weighing around two kilograms, this carbon fibre profile reacts to the AMG driving modes, automatically lowering it by approximately 40 millimetres at speeds above 80 km/h. This creates what is known as the Venturi effect, which additionally sucks the car to the road surface and reduces the lift on the front axle. The driver feels this effect directly in the steering, as it allows the PureSpeed to be steered even more precisely around corners and lends the car even more lane stability.

    Similar to the AMG GT 63 PRO, the underbody also features aerodynamic add-on elements that compensate for the lack of a roof and improve downforce. The lift system on the front axle is used to raise the PureSpeed before going over bumps or kerbs.

    Powerful and sonorous: AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine
    The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with 430 kW (585 PS) of maximum power and 800 Nm of maximum torque provides dynamic propulsion and excellent driving performance. Combined with the special design concept of the PureSpeed, this creates a uniquely exciting driving experience, because the radically open design makes even lower speeds feel subjectively much faster. But the objective figures are impressive as well: the car goes from zero to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 315 km/h. Then there is the legendary AMG V8 engine sound, which can be felt even more directly in the PureSpeed.

    Transmission with wet starting clutch
    The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission combines an emotional shifting experience with extremely short shifting times. A wet starting clutch replaces the torque converter. It reduces the car’s weight and, thanks to its lower mass inertia, optimises the response to accelerator commands, particularly during sprinting and load changes.

    Greater traction and driving stability: Fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+
    The PureSpeed comes with the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. The intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts: Fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles ensures optimal traction at the physical limit, as well as high driving stability and safety in all conditions.

    Suspension and brakes: Semi-active roll stabilisation and optimal deceleration
    The innovative AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with semi-active hydraulic roll stabilisation makes for optimum road contact. Instead of conventional mechanical lateral stabilisers, the system uses active hydraulic elements that compensate for rolling movements in fractions of a second. The system enables optimum steering and load-changing behaviour with AMG-typical handling including dynamics, precision and driver feedback. At the same time, it increases driving comfort when driving straight ahead and when driving over bumps. The wide-track rear axle increases agility, which is particularly noticeable on winding country roads.

    The standard AMG high-performance ceramic composite braking system ensures excellent deceleration values and precise control. It impresses with short braking distances, sensitive response and high stability – even under extreme loads. The 6-piston fixed brake callipers at the front and 1-piston floating callipers at the rear come in black with white AMG logos.

    Active rear-axle steering: Combining agility and stability
    The PureSpeed is equipped with active rear-axle steering. Depending on the speed, the rear wheels either turn in the opposite direction (below 100 km/h) or in the same direction (above 100 km/h) as the front wheels. The system provides both agile and stable handling – characteristics that would be at odds without rear-axle steering. Other benefits include easier vehicle control at the limit and less steering effort due to the more direct steering ratio at the front.

    Mercedes-Benz AG at a glance
    Mercedes-Benz AG is part of the Mercedes-Benz Group AG with a total of around 166,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes-Benz brand with Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach and G-Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes-Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of luxury passenger cars. In 2023 it sold around two million passenger cars and 447,800 vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes-Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes-Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes-Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain.

  • Limited Edition 2025 BMW XM by Kith Drops at Art Basel Miami

    Limited Edition 2025 BMW XM by Kith Drops at Art Basel Miami

    [source: BMW]

    Munich/Miami Beach, FL – BMW and Kith are launching a new edition of their successful collaboration. The BMW XM* and its links to the legendary BMW M1 are the focus of the third collaboration between the premium car manufacturer and Ronnie Fieg’s world-renowned lifestyle brand, Kith. The high-performance plug-in hybrid will be available next year as the 2025 BMW XM by Kith, with exclusive exterior and interior designs.

    The 2025 BMW XM Kith Concept offers a first look at the car, which will be manufactured as a one-of-one vehicle and presented at Art Basel Miami 2024, taking place from December 6-8 at the Miami Beach Convention Center,  alongside another unique piece, Ronnie Fieg’s 1981 BMW M1 E26. A new Kith for BMW collection of apparel and lifestyle products will also be launched.

    Following the edition vehicles designed by Ronnie Fieg based on the BMW M4 Competition Coupé* from 2020 and the BMW i4 M50 xDrive* from 2022, BMW and Kith are once again dedicating the latest chapter of their partnership to an exceptional BMW M automobile. The BMW XM, which is also the first original BMW M automobile since the BMW M1 produced from 1978 to 1981, features the newly developed M HYBRID drive system for the first time. The BMW XM features striking details inspired by the design of the legendary mid-engined sports car, such as the side accent strips, the two BMW emblems at the rear and the louvre structure of the rear lights.

    2025 BMW XM by Kith: 47 units, historic colour, exclusive details.
    The 2025 BMW XM by Kith will be produced in a limited edition of 47 units, reflecting the number of years that have passed since the debut of the BMW M1. It will be delivered in the second half of 2025 to enthusiasts and collectors of particularly exclusive BMW M automobiles. The edition vehicles will be offered with BMW Individual Frozen Techno Violet metallic (frozentechnovioletmetallic; metallic matt; 299; BMW Individual) paint finish, which is also based on historical models. This paint finish, specially developed by Kith for the 2025 BMW XM by Kith, will only ever be used for this limited edition model and will never be used by BMW again, making this edition truly special. Alternatively, BMW Individual Frozen Black metallic (frozenblackmetallic; metallic matt; U91; BMW Individual) paint finish is also available for the 2025 BMW XM by Kith.

    The paintwork and numerous special design features emphasise the particularly dynamic proportions of a modern Sports Activity Vehicle and the expressive lines that characterise the BMW XM. The 2025 BMW XM by Kith features black side window graphics and accent strips. The outline of the model inscriptions on the front, rear and side, as well as the outline of the Kith logo, combined with the characteristic M stripes on the rear of the edition vehicles, are finished in Techno Violet metallic. The 2025 BMW XM by Kith comes as standard with 23-inch M light-alloy wheels in star-spoke design with Jet Black finish.

    In the interior, the modern sports car cockpit of the BMW XM by Kith is complemented by exclusive details in the striking aesthetics of the Kith label. The illuminated door sills feature the special “1/47” insignia, denoting how rare each car is. The velour floor mats and the control centre on the centre console all feature the Kith logo with the M stripes.

    An illuminated version can also be seen under the headrests of the M multifunction driver and passenger seats. The seat surfaces in the BMW Individual Merino leather finish feature an embossed Kith monogram pattern, as does the armrest of the centre console. Another detail can be found in the control display of the edition vehicles. A special widget includes the official BMW XM by Kith vehicle name, the “1/47” insignia and the Kith logo with the M stripes.

    The M Lounge in the rear of the 2025 BMW XM by Kith also creates a personal atmosphere in the vehicle. Embossed Kith monogram on the seat surfaces and two cushions with the label’s logo add to the personal touch. Together with the pre-set purple interior lighting, a special atmosphere is created that is appropriate for the edition vehicle.

    A Kith duffle bag, designed and manufactured exclusively by Kith for the edition vehicles, is included as standard to stylishly accommodate the included charging cables.

    The 2025 BMW XM by Kith will be launched on December 6th at 5 PM CET on http://www.bmw-m.com/XM-by-KITH. Interested customers can use this link to express their purchase intent.

    World premiere in Miami Beach: The 2025 BMW XM Kith Concept.
    BMW and Kith will present a concept car, also designed by Ronnie Fieg. The exterior and interior of the 2025 BMW XM Kith Concept have been created by Fieg in collaboration with BMW to express both the distinctive character and exclusive sportiness of the high-performance model in a particularly intense way. Free from all the conventions of production car homologation, he designed a sophisticated lighting concept, in which the colour purple plays a central role, matching the BMW Individual Frozen Techno Violet metallic paint finish. The 2025 BMW XM Kith Concept’s side accent strips consist of black backlit strips, each of which contains 363 full-color LED units distributed along its entire length. When activated, these create a dynamically animated purple glow around the Kith lettering. The decor elements on the side panels also feature a backlit Kith logo.

    LED units are also used in the headlights to create a purple colour scheme. The Kith logo can also be displayed on the glass covers of the main headlights using LED matrix displays for the low beam headlights. The 2025 BMW XM Kith Concept also features an M radiator grille Iconic Glow with purple contour lighting and a paint finish enriched with purple colour pigments for the 23-inch light-alloy wheels.

    As a nod to its motorsport lineage, and to pay homage to the M1’s design, the 2025 BMW XM Kith Concept has been lowered by 30 millimetres at the front and 35 millimetres at the rear, while the track on both axles has been widened by 40 millimetres. This was accomplished thanks to the use of special springs and wheel spacers.

    Inside the concept car, M Carbon bucket seats replace the M multifunction seats of the 2025 BMW XM by Kith. They also feature surfaces with embossed Kith monogram and illuminated Kith emblems combined with the M stripes in the area of the headrests.

  • Vision for Range Rover SV Bespoke: Presenting the Range Rover SV Candeo

    Vision for Range Rover SV Bespoke: Presenting the Range Rover SV Candeo

    • Range Rover is debuting its newest and most highly crafted SV Bespoke vehicle at Design Miami. Range Rover SV Candeo, which means ‘to shine’ or ‘to glow’ in Latin, is a one‑of‑one vehicle inspired by the sunrises of the Miami coastline
    • Featuring hand‑finished, 18K solid gold Range Rover script badging, expertly 3D printed and crafted by British jewelers from fully recycled gold responsibly sourced from around the world
    • A unique, hand‑applied duo‑tone fade paint finish harmonizes beautifully, evoking the Miami coastal skyline; the first time such a paint finish has ever been executed on a Range Rover vehicle
    • Exquisite one‑of‑a‑kind embroidery design characterizes the theme of light; distinctive rear seat cushions alone feature 90,000 stitches each, alongside embroidered seat backs and, for the first time, an embroidered headlining
    • A year in the making, the Range Rover SV Candeo signals the future of SV Bespoke personalization for Range Rover’s most discerning clients seeking the ultimate luxurious finishes
    • The Range Rover SV Candeo is on display at Design Miami from December 3‑8, 2024

    Drawing inspiration from the cool tones of Miami’s famed coastline, Range Rover has crafted a unique curation that expresses this natural beauty. The Range Rover SV Candeo, defined as ‘to shine’ in Latin, reflects the world‑famous oceanic vistas. Displayed during Design Miami, as part of Range Rover’s official partnership, it is presented in a space dedicated to the Range Rover’s guiding modernist design philosophy, with a cinematic backdrop storying Miami’s landscape and oceanic views. 

    The exterior features a duo‑tone paint finish – applied by hand to create a graceful ombre effect from a bespoke sky‑blue satin hood color fading into a lustrous pearl white along the upper portion of the distinctive Range Rover silhouette. This elegant color combination magically captures the subtle golden reflections shimmering on the clear blue waters of Miami. The exterior is finished with Forged 23‑inch Diamond Turned directional alloy wheels with matching pearl white inserts. 

    Complementing the exterior on the front and rear lies exquisitely‑crafted 18K solid gold Range Rover script badging – weighing in at over 900g; more gold than has ever been applied to a Range Rover before. The gold is recycled from 100% fully audited recycled sources, preserving natural resources. Each letter features an 18K yellow‑gold outer and white‑gold inner and is 3D printed for precision, hallmarked, then hand‑finished by a British Jeweler to ensure it lies perfectly flush – with a polished outer edge and a brushed face.

    The interior of this unique and exclusive vehicle is the perfect combination of harmonious tones; a Liberty Blue Near‑Aniline and Perlino Semi‑Aniline leather finish capturing the essence of the transformation between dawn to noon. This theme is further brought to life with careful and considered embroidery across the cabin, as well as Natural Dark wood veneers and white ceramic finishes on the gear shifter and controls.

    Luxurious left and right seat backs feature a radiating sunrise motif meticulously embroidered– viewed in all its glory from the front looking rearwards, where the rays seemingly stretch to each corner of the interior. For the first time, Range Rover SV Candeo features an embroidered headlining, finished in Perlino with nuances of gold in different lights, continuing the theme of sunrise. Cabin cushions feature a geometric sundial repeat pattern, with 90,000 stitches per cushion for a tactile, intriguing and precise finish that exemplifies workmanship beyond compare.

    The rear cabin of the Range Rover SV Candeo offers unparalleled comfort for two rear‑seat passengers. SV Signature suite seats with Range Rover SV‑specific contours feature 24‑way adjustment with massage functionality, complete with a chiller compartment for drinks, while an elegant electrically deployable Club Table rises theatrically from the fixed full‑length center console on beautifully engineered supports to provide a convenient workspace when required. 

    Completing this unique creation is the Tailgate Event Suite – inspired by the calming glow of morning sunrises across the Miami coast – finished in Liberty Blue Near‑Analine leather with embroidered seat cushions featuring a unique radial sun design.

    The SV Bespoke commissioning service is available on Range Rover SV and Autobiography cars. Clients are invited to begin their Bespoke journey via their preferred Range Rover retailer or by contacting bespoke@jaguarlandrover.com directly. The SV Bespoke service provides exclusive in‑person or virtual commissioning with an extensive range of interior and exterior options and vehicle personalization.

    About the Range Rover Brand

    Every Range Rover leads by example with modernist design, connected, refined interiors and electrified performance driving unrivalled luxury. Inspired by exemplary design since 1970.

    The brand encompasses Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque and is underpinned by Land Rover – a mark of trust built on 75 years of expertise in technology, vehicle architecture and off‑road capability. 

    As part of our vision of modern luxury by design, every Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are available as an electric hybrid. A fully electric Range Rover and Range Rover Sport is anticipated to  arrive by the middle of the decade. 

    Range Rover is one of the world’s leading British luxury brands, sold in 121 countries. It belongs to the JLR house of brands together with Defender, Discovery and Jaguar.

  • New Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition: Tribute to Historic Victory at CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa 2024 

    New Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition: Tribute to Historic Victory at CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa 2024 

    • Aston Martin celebrates Vantage GT3 victory at iconic Spa-Francorchamps race in 2024 with launch of Vantage AMV24 Edition 
    • Just 24 examples of Vantage AMV24 Edition will be created, exclusively for clients in Continental Europe
    • Unique race-inspired exterior and interior features curated by Q by Aston Martin, the British ultra-luxury brand’s in-house bespoke division
    • Every owner of Vantage AMV24 Edition invited to drive on Spa-Francorchamps iconic circuit in 2025 as part of personalised ownership program

    [source: Aston Martin]

    07 November 2024,Frankfurt, Germany: Aston Martin is celebrating the historic 2024 Crowdstrike 24 Hours of Spa race win in June 2024 by Vantage GT3 partner team Comtoyou Racing, with the launch of the limited-edition new Vantage AMV24 Edition. Only 24 examples of this unique specification Vantage will be created – designed and built exclusively for clients in Continental Europe.  

    Finished in Aston Martin’s unique Podium Green (podiumgreenmetallic; metallic UNI; 6224/6332; Aston Martin) paint, the new Vantage AMV24 Edition is the latest exciting creation from Q by Aston Martin, the British ultra luxury performance brand’s in-house bespoke division. The unique exterior specification of Vantage AMV24 Edition also includes an Aston Martin Racing (AMR) Lime livery featuring vent surrounds, mirror caps and a racing line running the length of car, accentuating the motorsport-inspired character of the 665PS/800Nm Aston Martin sports car. Gloss Black finishes to the lower and upper body are matched to striking 21” Y-Spoke Wheels in Satin Black, completing the Vantage AMV24 Edition’s overtly sporting appearance.

    The theme of exclusivity continues inside the car with a sill plaque featuring a unique Vantage AMV24 Edition logo, designed by Q by Aston Martin. Matching headrest embroidery, a dark chrome jewelry pack and contrast stitching in AMR Lime across the Black ventilated seats deliver an interior experience reminiscent of the Aston Martin Vantage GT3 race car, which was launched alongside the new Vantage sports car and the AMR24 F1®challenger at the famous Silverstone race circuit in February this year.

    The new Vantage AMV24 Edition shares its technical platform and suite of advanced technologies with the new Vantage – the definitive front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car. With a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, the chassis and powertrain of Vantage are tuned to deliver maximum thrills and driver engagement.

    Capable of 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds and delivering a top speed of 202mph, technical highlights of Vantage include industry-leading Active Vehicle Dynamics, Bilstein DTX adaptive dampers, Electronic Rear Differential (E-diff) and AML-specific 21” Michelin Pilot S5 tyres. An all-new interior architecture and bespoke, state-of-the-art infotainment system set new standards of quality, style and sophistication. 

    Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition owners are guaranteed a personalised ownership experience that goes beyond the spectacular livery and interior appointments of this thrilling performance car. Each owner of the Vantage AMV24 Edition will be hosted at the 2025 24 Hours of Spa race by Aston Martin Europe, where they will be given the chance to explore the performance of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 heart of Vantage and its array of advanced vehicle dynamics technologies on the famous circuit ahead of the main race event.

    Andreas Bareis, Aston Martin Europe Regional President said: “The new Aston Martin sports car portfolio has been revolutionized in 2024, with every one of our new cars offering class leading performance, advanced technologies and exquisite luxury. Some of our most discerning clients value rarity and exclusivity above all else, which is why our Q by Aston Martin team have crafted the fantastic new Vantage AMV24 Edition.

    “Owning the Vantage AMV24 Edition will mean owning a unique piece of history. The Aston Martin Vantage GT3 win at Spa this year was the first overall win for an Aston Martin car since 1948. I congratulate and thank the Comtoyou team for an exceptional victory.

    “The thrilling prospect of driving the new Vantage AMV24 Edition on track ahead of next year’s race in front of 100,000 fans will be one to savor for its group of new owners. Every element of owning and driving Vantage AMV24 Edition will be memorable.”   

    The Aston Martin GT3 Victory at Spa-Francorchamps in 2024 was the first in more than 40 years for a British-built car, and the first overall victory for Aston Martin in the modern GT-era of the event. Aston Martin works drivers Mattia Drudi (ITA), Marco Sørensen (DEN), and Nicki Thiim (DEN), alongside Aston Martin partner team Comtoyou Racing, combined to deliver a victory seventy-six years in the making.

    Deliveries to clients in Continental Europe of the exclusive new Aston Martin Vantage AMV24 Edition will begin in the first quarter of 2025.

    About Podium Green

    A nod to Aston Martin’s racing prowess, Podium Green embodies the raw emotion of speed with a subtle notes of heritage and lineage. A timeless colour, seamlessly blending performance with redefined elegance. Proudly seen on the latest AMR24 F1® race cars, Podium Green also features on the Vantage Official FIA F1® Safety car and DBX707 Official F1® FIA Medical Car for the 2023 and 2024 season.

  • Color Check: Paint to Sample X Blue on Porsche 911 Turbo S Lightweight “000” Commission at Porsche Main Line

    Color Check: Paint to Sample X Blue on Porsche 911 Turbo S Lightweight “000” Commission at Porsche Main Line

    Porsche is celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 911 Turbo this year, and 000 Magazine is doing the same this coming weekend with their Turbo 50 celebration at Summit Skywalker Ranch. Given that, it’s worth celebrating this X Blue 911 Turbo S owned by Drew Coblitz, purchased through Porsche Main Line. It is reportedly the first delivered 911 Turbo S “000 Commission” and was recently detailed more specifically by @PTSRS.

    Given all that, let’s dig into the details. For starters, the X Blue (xblau; non-metallic UNI; Z91; Porsche) color is Paint to Sample and non-metallic. This blue is a modern blue formulation created for the 911 (992.1) Belgian Legends Edition created in 2020 to honor Jacky Ickx 75th birthday. It’s a solid blue that is reportedly darker than Dark Sea Blue and is offered on the 911 and Taycan. Given the Ickx association, it’s quite likely it also harks the dark blue of Rothman’s Racing liveries his Porsches wore in races such as the Paris-Dakar Rally or 24 Hours of Le Mans.

    Side Note: @PTSRS has an interesting indexing format for paints seen here (name; type; code), and we’re going to adopt that with the addition of brand (name; type; code; brand) since we cover more than just Porsche. The intention is to adopt more universal standardization of paint code identity when we know the code and type. In this case, it’s (xblau; non-metallic UNI; Z91; Porsche).

    Back to the 000 Commission specification, it’s based on an “off the menu” mix created to be built in conjunction with the a 911 Turbo S with factory Lightweight Package. From there, special wishes details were chosen along a theme celebrating David Donner‘s victory at the 100th Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb. In that race, Donner’s 9 minutes 53 second record run was performed in a 000 Magazine liveried 911 Turbo S #000. A creative mix of details and easter eggs thanks to ample deployment of Sonderwunsch services complete the specification.

    @PTSRS inventories the Sonderwunsch details as such:

    • Laser-etched “000” on Front Bumper Grille as on Pikes Peak Winner
    • Exterior Mirrors in Carmine Red as on Pikes Peak Winner
    • “Peak 100” Logo Decals on Doors
    • 000 Decal under Rear Wing as on Pikes Peak Winner
    • Illuminated Door-Sill Guards in Matte Carbon with 000 Logo
    • Center Armrest embossed with Pikes Peak course map and “9:53”
    • Custom Dashboard Inlay denoting #000 911 Turbo S’s Class Win and PPIHC Certified Course Time
    • Derpy in the Fuel Cap

    For a client to order an “000 Commission”, they must build from a 911 Turbo S Coupe allocation, adding the Lightweight Package, Full Bucket Seats or 18-way Sport Seats Plus, 20/21-inch 911 Turbo S Exclusive Design wheels, Wheel Inlays Painted High Gloss Black and Calipers in High Gloss Black.

    From there, they can coordinate with their Porsche dealer to create a Sonderwunsch order with the factory. And while the “000 Commission” can be ordered on any color 911 Turbo S so-fitted, they’ll also need a Paint to Sample allocation if they wish to do special paint like the Coblitz X Blue car.

  • A New Experience of the Past – the Mercedes-Benz x Moncler by NIGO Collaboration

    A New Experience of the Past – the Mercedes-Benz x Moncler by NIGO Collaboration

    • Mercedes-Benz and Moncler expanded their collaboration at “The City of Genius” show in Shanghai with a new brand campaign and art piece, a limited-edition G-Class and capsule fashion collection
    • “Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future” is a new art piece that catapults 1990s spirit into contemporary lifestyle – inspired by fashion designer, music producer and creative director, NIGO
    • The one-off art piece is the inspiration for the new, limited-edition series, Mercedes-Benz G-Class Past II Future

    Stuttgart/Shanghai.  At The City of Genius show in Shanghai on October 19, 2024, Mercedes-Benz and Moncler took the bold next step in their collaboration. Alongside the launch of the brand campaign, “Past Forward. Where the Future is Driven by the Past”, the partners unveiled a one-off art piece, “Project G-Class Past II Future”, inspired by NIGO. It’s based on a G-Class from the 90s that was completely restored. NIGO reworked numerous design elements inside and out to revive the design and brings it into the cultural landscape of the present. The G-Class Past II Future is a new G-Class model with a limited run of only 20 cars and is inspired by the art piece. At the show, the audience also got a sneak preview of Moncler’s new collection of urban, gender-neutral fashion designed by Mercedes-Benz and Moncler together with NIGO. Both the limited-edition G-Class and the capsule collection will be launched in April 2025. Alongside Mercedes-Benz and NIGO, the Shanghai event additionally hosted several other artists, who presented their own respective collaborations with Moncler: A$AP Rocky and Willow Smith, Edward Enninful (OBE), FRGMT by Hiroshi Fujiwara, Gilga Farm by Donald Glover, LuLu Li and Palm Angels. In addition to the Moncler Genius 2024 lineup, special showcases were presented by Rick Owens and Jil Sander.

    “NIGO’s immense creative talent and our co-creation with Moncler are taking us into an exciting urban setting. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Past II Future is a very special new ‘twist’ on our icon. This limited edition is a fresh take on 90s style and the character that’s made the G-Class a timeless favourite. Going from inspiring art to engaging products marks an important step in our creative cooperation and offers a new brand experience captured by the zeitgeist.”
    Bettina Fetzer, Vice President Communications & Marketing Mercedes-Benz AG

    Art piece Project G-Class Past II Future inspired by NIGO
    NIGO’s creation is the second art piece to emerge from the collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Moncler. Like the PROJECT MONDO G, launched at Moncler’s “The Art of Genius” show in London in February 2023, this art piece merges the distinctively quilted aesthetic of the Moncler puffer jacket with the unmistakeable edginess of the G-Class. Measuring 4.5 metres in length, 1.9 metres in width and 2.0 metres in height, the art piece features a minimalistic, matte two-tone contemporary colour palette in olive green and grey, which is offset by striking exterior accents in black and gold. The clean lines of the classic G-Class cabriolet give it a contemporary attitude. Hallmark G-Class functionality and design cues are retained and reinterpreted. These include the iconic spare wheel on the rear tailgate, black steel wheels in the 90s design, a foldable windscreen, and a gold-coloured fuel can. The interior has also been reworked. Among other elements, G-Class enthusiast Devon Turnbull – known for his immersive audio installations – has designed a sound system that fits perfectly into the vehicle concept, both technically and visually. The music “boom boxes” are mounted on the convertible top linkage and – like the entire roof and the speakers – can be removed. Its chequered seat upholstery pattern is an interpretation of a design element typical of earlier G-Class models.  Accents in orange and gold draw parallels with the collaborative fashion collection by Mercedes-Benz, Moncler and NIGO.

    “For me, the 90s were among the most influential decades from a cultural and creative standpoint. Electronic music and the hip-hop scene arose as a new expression of urban character. I wanted to integrate that vibe and energy into the design of the Project G-Class Past II Future by interpreting that legacy for a new contemporary era.”
    Fashion designer, music producer and creative director, NIGO

    Limited edition Mercedes-Benz G-Class Past II Future 
    Both the limited-edition G-Class and the capsule collection are the collaboration’s first products available for purchase. As a crowning moment in the 45thanniversary year of the G-Class, the new edition shows how timeless this brand icon remains, and how capably it adapts to contemporary lifestyles. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Past II Future references NIGO’s one-off art piece and is based on the new G 450 d (combined energy consumption: 10.0-8.7 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 261-227 g/km | CO₂ class: G)[1] and the new G 500 (combined energy consumption: 12.3-10.9 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 281-248 g/km | CO₂ class: G)1.  It has two-tone exterior paintwork in green and grey, the G-Class typical chequered upholstery and a rear-mounted spare wheel with the collaboration logo on its cover. Black exterior accents include the window frames, light metal alloy wheels and the signature bumper guard running the full length of the flanks. The latter features the Past II Future lettering. In the interior, this lettering can be found on the grab handle. On the centre console, the vehicle’s “1 of 20” limited series number is inscribed. The 20 cars will be delivered to customers in April 2025.

    The capsule collection
    The gender-neutral fashion collection incorporates 90s influences with contemporary street style elements. Following “The City of Genius” show preview, the pieces shown will be winnowed down into a capsule collection that will be available for purchase starting in April 2025. It will mainly consist of souvenir and college jackets, hoodies, checked shirts and Bermuda shorts as well as lightweight down and field jackets, parkas and windbreakers with a vintage look. The colour palette is classic: Blue, black, green and white dominate – complemented by orange accents. Many of the garments feature elaborate prints that merge archival photos of the collaboration partners. Jackets and pants are made using raw denim, with one exception: a satin jacket that combines the visual language and logos of both brands. The jacket captures the spirit of their collaboration, especially in combination with the grey checked shirts. 

    Brand campaign “Past Forward. Where the Future is Driven by the Past” 
    The unbreakable bond between past and future is reflected in the brand campaign accompanying this next step in the Mercedes-Benz x Moncler collaboration – together with NIGO and photographer Thibaut Grevet. With the motto, “Past Forward. Where the Future is Driven by the Past”, it visualises the evolution of the collaboration from an imaginary cosmos to its arrival in metropolitan life. A city rooftop symbolises the campaign’s urban look and feel. The rooftop’s angular metallic surfaces provide the perfect backdrop for showcasing the streetwear collection by the partners Mercedes-Benz, Moncler and NIGO. The campaign’s aim is to highlight the overarching theme of taking inspiration from the past, harnessing creativity and translating it into something new. The global campaign will be rolled out across each brand’s respective websites and social media channels. In addition to the main campaign film, a making-of video by Theodor Guelat gives a closer, behind-the-scenes peek into the collaboration with NIGO.

    The creative team:

    • Idea, concept and realisation: team x
    • Creative director: Thibaut Grevet
    • Director of photography: João de Botelho
    • Sound design: Pierre Rousseau at Stereo Image 

    About Moncler
    Moncler was founded at Monestier-de-Clermont, Grenoble, France, in 1952 and is currently headquartered in Italy. Over the years the brand has combined style with constant technological research assisted by experts in activities linked to the world of the mountain. The Moncler outerwear collections marry the extreme demands of nature with those of city life. Moncler manufactures and directly distributes the clothing and accessories collections under the brand Moncler through directly operated physical and digital stores as well as selected multi-brand doors, department stores and e-tailers.

    About NIGO
    Known as one of the founding fathers of street fashion, NIGO created his first clothing label, in Tokyo in 1993. The brand grew from the cultural underground to attain global fame in the worlds of fashion and music. NIGO is now Creative Director of his own independent brand HUMAN MADE and the Artistic Director at LVMH owned Maison KENZO. Working in the fields of music and fashion and often through collaboration with some of the best-known companies and creative people in the world, he has innovated new ways for fashion to relate to its audience that have since become industry standards. NIGO continues to pursue his creativity in his work through fashion brands and in musical projects as well as in the practice of photography and traditional Japanese ceramic art.

    Mercedes-Benz AG at a glance
    Mercedes-Benz AG is part of the Mercedes-Benz Group AG with a total of around 166,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes-Benz brand with Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach and G-Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. The Mercedes me brand offers access to the digital services from Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of luxury passenger cars. In 2023 it sold around two million passenger cars and 447,800 vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes-Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes-Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes-Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain.

    [1] The specified values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement method. The ranges given refer to the German market. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the efficient use of the fuel or energy source by the car, but also on the driving style and other non-technical factors.