Author: Joydip Sur

I'm a journalist with over a decade of experience and an all consuming passion for automobile and motorsports.

Austin Pedal Cars Races Into 2025 Goodwood Revival

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Austin Pedal Cars, the world’s only dedicated Austin J40 sales, service, parts and restoration specialist, is set to present a must-see display of pedal cars at the 2025 Goodwood Revival. Situated in the High Street, Austin Pedal Cars will delight fans of the diminutive Austin with a selection of cars for sale, star cars, historically important racers and a range of merchandise the whole family will enjoy. 

The 2025 Goodwood Revival will feature a very special Austin J40 on the grid of the famous Settrington Cup, courtesy of a collaboration between Austin Pedal Cars and Goodwood Revival.

In 1955 Ted French, a young pedal car racer, won the very first Austin Pedal Cars Junior Grand Prix held at Silverstone. The prize for victory was his very own Austin J40 pedal car, which Ted went on to cherish for 70 years, still wearing its original race number and the battle scars from a well-used and well-loved life. Arguably it was that 1955 Austin Pedal Cars Junior Grand Prix race at Silverstone that almost certainly inspired pedal car racing, and the annual Settrington Cup race we know and love today.

Now, 70 years later, that same car will compete in the 2025 Settrington Cup, fully prepared by Austin Pedal Cars and retaining its patinated bodywork to honour its place in classic pedal car history. Best of all, the car will be pedalled by George Vernon who won the opportunity to race it in an Austin Pedal Cars competition held earlier this year.

TV star and Goodwood’s Revive and Thrive ambassador Dominic Chinea will display his own Austin J40 on the Austin Pedal Cars stand. Dominic recently completed a full restoration of his J40 for his YouTube channel, with help from Austin Pedal Cars throughout, and now the car can be seen in all its glory, along with episodes of his restoration show, throughout the 2025 Goodwood Revival. Fans of Dominic will also have the chance to meet him on the Austin Pedal Cars stand throughout the event and are encouraged to visit the stand to find out the times of appearance for each day.

If showgoers take a photo with Dominic they may want to share it on social media, as Austin Pedal Cars is offering numerous pedal car related prizes in a new social media competition. Revival showgoers, who take a pedal car related photo at the event, be that in the Settrington Cup, on the Austin Pedal Cars stand or anywhere around the event, should post their photo on X, Facebook or Instagram tagging @austinpedalcars. The Austin Pedal Cars team will choose the best photos and the winners will be awarded prizes from the Austin Pedal Cars merchandise store. 

Finally, a full range of pedal cars for sale, and a host of Austin Pedal Cars parts and accessories will also be presented on the brand’s High Street stand. Sale cars will be fully documented and verified before being offered to purchase, at a range of prices. Some cars will be ready for a home restoration, while others will be in perfect to pedal condition with warranty and delivery available.

“Goodwood Revival is always a special event for us“, said Mark Burnett, Managing Director of Austin Pedal Cars. “This year we will give pedal car enthusiasts a treat with a range of unique and exciting pedal cars, not least the return of the Ted French racer which takes to the track once again after 70 years. Do come and meet the team and see the car at Goodwood Revival, where you will find us on the High Street with a stand you don’t want to miss.“

New Naming Strategy At Volkswagen

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Volkswagen is also setting the course for the future when it comes to model names: with a new naming strategy that also transfers the familiar designations of combustion-engine models to its all-electric ID. family. The first model to be launched will be the ID. Polo1 from 2026. The concept car is known as the ID. 2all.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand, Head of the Brand Group Core and member of the Group Board of Management: “Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”

Volkswagen will transfer more established names to the electric portfolio with each new model generation. At the same time, all vehicles with conventional drives will continue to run under their previous names. With this strategy, Volkswagen is bringing together the electric and combustion engine worlds, helping customers navigate the brand’s product range more easily in the future.

The designation ID. stands for advanced technologies and electric mobility. The Polo has always stood for quality, safety and democratisation of innovations. The new ID. Polo combines these characteristics and will be launched with its new name in the Polo’s 50th anniversary year as the first model of this strategy.

Martin Sander, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales: “Our cars often accompany people for many years – they shape memories and stages of life. A model like the Polo shows just how powerful a name can be: it stands for reliability, personality and history. That’s precisely why we are again giving our ID. models names that arouse emotions and are anchored in people’s everyday lives. Electric mobility should not only be progressive, but also accessible and personal.”

The second future ID. model for the small car segment will evoke special emotions. Martin Sander: “We are bringing one of our strongest brands, the GTI, into the electric world. Also launching in 2026, the ID. GTI Concept2 model will go into production as the ID. Polo GTI. It will offer outstanding dynamics and plenty of driving pleasure.”

The still-camouflaged ID. Polo and ID. Polo GTI will make their first public appearance worldwide at the IAA MOBILITY in Munich (8 to 14 September). The day before, on 7 September, Volkswagen will unveil the concept vehicle for an electric compact SUV, the new ID. CROSS Concept, in a world premiere. The production version of this concept vehicle – the ID. Cross1 – will be launched at the end of 2026 as the electric counterpart to the T-Cross.

For Volkswagen, the premiere of the smaller and more compact vehicles in its electric family marks the start of a new era – it will make electric driving more affordable than ever, thanks to new models such as the ID. Polo and ID. Cross. These new models show clearly that Volkswagen is responding closely to customer feedback. This is evident, among other things, in the high level of quality with soft materials, the intelligent combination of digital and physical controls such as buttons and knobs in the steering wheel and cockpit, as well as the intuitive operating concept.

Volkswagen introduced the naming of the ID. family in 2018. It designates the stand-alone all-electric product range in the Volkswagen brand portfolio. The first model to be launched was the ID.3. Further models followed, which are also differentiated by model numbers depending on the vehicle segment. The largest model is the ID.7, available as a saloon and estate. This is currently the market leader in Germany and Europe.

Volvo Car India’s Latest BEV The All-Electric Volvo EX30 Unveiled In Kolkata

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Volvo Car India has unveiled its latest BEV –the EX30, at SPL Volvo dealership in Kolkata, setting an innovative benchmark for all electric SUVs. The much-awaited all electric SUV will be officially launched, with price details, during end of September and customer deliveries will begin from October 2025. The EX30 is being assembled at the Company’s plant at Hosakote in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

The EX30 is Volvo’s most sustainable car having the lowest carbon footprint of any fully electric Volvo to date, and its attractive interiors are made from recycled denim, PET bottles, aluminium, PVC pipes etc. Incorporating Scandinavian design and cutting-edge technology, the EX30 has achieved five-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety test. The EX30 also features active safety tools like an intersection auto brake to lessen collisions, a door-opening alert to prevent “dooring” accidents, and the much-advanced Safe Space Technology that boasts of 5 cameras, 5 radars and 12 ultrasonic sensors.

The five ambient lighting themes and sounds, inspired by Scandinavian seasons and sights, give a full immersive experience. With the new Harman Kardon soundbar concept, a 1040W amplifier and nine high-performance speakers, this state-of-the-art system delivers immersive surround sound for everyone. The 12.3-inch high-res centre display is intuitive and adaptable, with Google built in, 5G connectivity, OTA updates and much more. This head-turner has a new sleek design as well and has won many international awards. These include the prestigious Red Dot award: Best of the Best Product Design 2024, and the World Urban Car of the Year 2024.

The EX30 comes with an 8-year battery warranty and includes a wall box charger as a standard fitment. The car also reimagines how one interacts with it. With the NFC (Near Frequency Card), one can just tap onto the sensor and unlock the car. Additionally, with Digital Key Plus in the Volvo Car App, the phone itself acts as a key. It’s not just convenient; it’s smarter, safer, and surprisingly seamless.

With its advanced electric drivetrain and innovative features, this model offers an unparalleled driving experience while contributing to a sustainable environment.

1959 Austin Minis To Race At Goodwood Revival

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When the words ‘Goodwood’ and ‘Mini’ are uttered in the same sentence it can surely mean only one thing; the St. Mary’s Trophy historic touring car races at Goodwood Revival. A brace of 1960s Cooper S racers nipping angrily at the heels of the giant V8 muscle from across the pond. Only this year it will be different, very different.

For 2025 the St. Marys Trophy reverts to its biennial pre-1960 touring car grid, where the humble Mini hasn’t been allowed due to its predominantly 1960s period competition success – until now. Having made the decision to include Minis in the race, Goodwood turned to a trio of trusted faces in the historic racing community to produce the right car for the occasion.

Austin Cars Ltd is a recently formed company which has chosen the classic Mini as the showpiece for its engineering and competition thinking and which will field two classic Minis on the illustrious pre-1960 Goodwood grid.

The team behind Austin Cars Ltd will be familiar to anyone in historic motoring. They are the same management team as Burlen Ltd, the company behind SU, Amal and Zenith Carburettors and Austin Pedal Cars.

“It’s not really a new idea,” says Mark Burnett, Managing Director of Austin Cars Ltd. “Over at Burlen we’ve been producing a small range of classic car parts under the Austin name for years and in 2020 we set up Austin Pedal Cars, which is such a lovely natural path into the world of historic motoring for young people. The next step was always going to be the production of something for the grown-ups, something basic but fun, soul-stirring and memory inducing, no frills motoring, simply because we can. The Austin Cars cup of tea has been brewing for quite a while!”

Owens Fabrication in Wales were asked to produce the bodyshells and roll cages, paying meticulous attention to the detail of the 1959 model. They were then tasked with assembly of the cars to race specification, but without losing the production car feel.

Swiftune Engineering were chosen to build, test and supply the full race specification engines for the plucky racers.

“‘Swiftune and Owens are not only long-term friends of Austin Cars but they also happen to produce the fastest, most reliable classic Mini race cars and A-Series race engines in the world,” says Burnett. “There was no other option in our quest for perfection. We also went the extra mile with many uniquely designed and engineered touches, produced in-house at Austin.”

The cars have been built to accurately reflect the early production Minis from 1959. Subtle differences have been made to the bodyshell and trim, steels wheels have been added, and the ride height has been raised to replicate the body roll of the earliest racing Minis. Both race cars will feature less powerful versions of the famous A-Series engine than their later production cousins, fed by a single SU carburettor, and with the ‘wand’ gear lever of the original 850cc Mini. Presented in Farina Grey, an original 1959 Austin colour, the two team cars will line up on the St. Marys Trophy grid for the first time ever at the 2025 Goodwood Revival.

“Minis are such a popular sight at Goodwood, and I am very excited to see them racing in the 1950s version of the St Mary’s Trophy,” says Will Kinsman, Goodwood’s Editorial and Content Director. “Our brief to Austin, Swiftune and Owens was to produce cars that look like “your Mum’s Mini, which you’ve borrowed for the day, painted a number on the side, and taken racing without telling her!”, and they have achieved it brilliantly. The attention to detail that has gone into creating cars that are distinctly different from the Cooper S-spec cars that we normally see racing is a credit to all concerned.”

No strangers to classic Mini racing, the cars will be driven in the famous race by Mark Burnett himself, as well as Nick Swift of Swiftune, but they will also be joined by some big names from the racing world. Co-drivers are required because the race is made up of two parts, on both the Saturday and Sunday of the weekend. Performing this privilege will be Karun Chandhok, former F1 driver and Darren Turner, endurance racing champion. The race results are then formed by the aggregate result of the drivers’ finishing times, with the nail-biting finale rounding off the weekend’s racing on Sunday evening.

“It’s a real pleasure to present our 1959 Austin Minis to the spectators and the world at Goodwood, and such a privilege to be asked to join the grid for the first time ever,” says Burnett. “What a way to showcase Austin Cars and who knows, perhaps their debut provides a hint of our plans for the future.”

Kia Launches EV Production In Europe With The EV4

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The five-door Kia EV4 is the brand’s first fully electric vehicle to be manufactured in Europe, as Kia begins series production of the new model. The start of production follows extensive updates to Kia’s sole European manufacturing facility in Slovakia and represents a major step forward in Kia’s electrification strategy for the region.

An electric hatchback designed specifically for the European market, the EV4 is assembled exclusively at Kia AutoLand Slovakia.

“The start of EV4 production is a huge milestone for us. It demonstrates the technical capability and flexibility of our European operations,” said Marc Hedrich, President and CEO of Kia Europe. “From 20 August, Slovakia will build fully electric cars alongside models with hybrid and internal combustion powertrains. Through the expansion of our production capabilities, we are supporting our diverse European customer base even more.”

“We have been preparing for the EV4’s production launch for a long time,” said Tomáš Potoček, spokesperson for Kia Slovakia. “By combining advanced manufacturing technology with the dedication of our skilled workforce, we have successfully begun mass production of this model.”

Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV4 delivers a balance of performance and efficiency. It is available with two battery options: a 58.3kWh battery and a larger 81.4kWh variant, offering a range of up to 391 miles on a single charge. The EV4 boasts advanced energy innovations, such as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities*. The model features an aluminium bonnet to reduce weight and enhance handling, as well as the choice of five eye-catching exterior paint finishes.

The EV4’s design combines bold, sharp lines with Kia’s award-winning ‘Opposites United’ philosophy. It was first unveiled globally in February 2025 and is tailored to meet the needs of customers seeking innovation, performance, and electric mobility.

Kia’s manufacturing facility in Žilina, Slovakia, is a cornerstone of the company’s European operations. Opened in 2004, the two-square-kilometre plant is strategically located for serving key European markets. It employs around 3,700 people and operates with more than 600 advanced robots. The plant is capable of producing multiple model variants simultaneously across five main production areas: press, body, paint, engine, and assembly.

Following a €108-million investment, the production lines have been modernised with new technologies, including an EV battery conveyor at the chassis line in the assembly shop.

The Žilina plant produces other models such as the Kia XCeed and Kia Sportage. This includes hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, which have accounted for 25% of the facility’s total annual output as of 2024.

With an annual capacity of 3,50,000 vehicles and 5,40,000 engines, the facility has produced more than five million units since opening, which are exported to 83 countries. These figures account for approximately 11% of the company’s global vehicle output.

Kia has integrated sustainability measures into the plant’s operations. Since 2014, Kia Slovakia has reduced electricity consumption per vehicle by 11%, water usage by 28%, and CO2 emissions by 13%. The factory currently runs entirely on renewable electricity and plans to meet approximately 1.5% of its total energy needs with a new photovoltaic power plant by the end of this year.

While the five-door EV4 will be manufactured at Kia’s European plant in Slovakia, its saloon-bodied sibling, the EV4 Fastback, will be manufactured in Kia’s homeland of Korea at the brand’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO plant.

YANGWANG U9 Track Edition Sets New Global EV Top-Speed Record By Clocking 472.41 kmph

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YANGWANG, BYD’s high-end sub-brand, has set a new global electric vehicle (EV) top-speed record of 472.41 kmph at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in Germany. The feat was achieved with YANGWANG’s latest U9 Track Edition supercar on August 8, 2025, making it the world’s fastest EV.

The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition is built upon the same e4 Platform and DiSus-X core technical architecture as the YANGWANG U9 currently on sale in China. On top of this, it features the world’s first mass-produced 1200V ultra-high-voltage vehicle platform, paired with a thermal-management system optimised for extreme conditions. This combination of an existing technical footprint and ground-breaking enhancements elevates the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition’s performance to unprecedented levels.

Breaking world records demands both relentless power delivery and exceptional high-speed stability. The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition’s e4 Platform — the world’s first quad-motor system to feature 30,000rpm high-performance motors — delivers peak power of 555kW per motor, with a combined system output exceeding 3,000PS. This grants the vehicle an astonishing power-to-weight ratio of 1,217PS per tonne, placing it among the top tier in the global automotive industry.

Beyond this, the e4 Platform’s quad-motor independent torque-vectoring system continuously monitors road feedback, adjusting each wheel’s torque at an ultra-high frequency that exceeds 100 times per second. Even at high speeds, it maintains absolute control over body posture, ensuring no wheel slip or loss of traction.

The DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System performs rapid, independent vertical adjustments to the suspension at each corner of the vehicle during aggressive acceleration and cornering, or on uneven surfaces. This not only suppresses pitch and roll — enhancing driver comfort and confidence — but also actively optimises the contact patch between the tyres and the road, maximising grip. Working in synergy with the e4 Platform, it delivers dual guarantees for vehicle stability and driving safety.

Unlike traditional supercars, the YANGWANG U9 adopts the innovative “e4 Platform + DiSus-X” technical architecture, introducing “body posture control” to racetrack scenarios and exploring the boundaries of safety and performance for supercars in track environments. Furthermore, the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition retains the aerodynamic design of the current YANGWANG U9 and is equipped with an enhanced, optional carbon-fiber front splitter that is already in mass production, fully verifying the scientific design and technical reliability of the YANGWANG U9 under ultra-high-speed operating conditions.

To enhance tyre performance and durability under extreme driving conditions, YANGWANG, building on data gleaned during extensive testing and achievements in Germany in 2024, has engaged in a collaboration with Giti Tire to develop a track-focused semi-slick tyre. This high-performance tyre features optimised compound materials and a bespoke tread design, while an innovative knurling treatment at the wheel-rim interface, combined with high-viscosity lubricant, minimises relative slippage between the tyre and the rim during hard acceleration or braking. This reduces torque loss and tyre wear, while improving predictability and stability during dynamic manoeuvres.

The record was set by German professional driver Marc Basseng, who was behind the wheel for the previous global EV speed record in 2024. After completing the high-speed test for YANGWANG, he said, “Last year, I thought I’d peaked. I never expected to break my own record so soon — but here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that have made it possible.”

By setting a new global EV speed record, YANGWANG redefines the sustainable supercar. Backed by BYD’s innovation and sustainability commitments, YANGWANG employs cutting-edge tech to deliver unmatched performance, safety, and driving experience.

Volkswagen Cars Now More Finely Tuned Than Ever Before

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Millions of motorists are about to hit the open road as they head to music festivals and make the most of the August Bank Holiday – so Volkswagen has created the perfect playlist for summer drives.

Whether singing along to The Beatles in a Beetle or blasting N-Dubz in a V-Dub, the best road trips are accompanied by the perfect soundtrack. Volkswagen fans across the UK were asked online to suggest songs that make them wind down the windows and turn up the volume. From festival anthems to classic hits and nightclub bangers, the result is almost three hours of Volkswagen-inspired tunes.

The playlist is available on Spotify – just search for Volkswagen Summer Drives. Highlights include California Soul, VW Van and Young At Heart, which featured in a memorable Volkswagen TV advert in the early 1990s. Other favourites include Ride Like The Wind, In The Summertime and Ventura Highway; there’s even space for more niche tastes, with Autobahn by Kraftwerk.

The Summer Drives playlist is part of the new Volkswagen UK account on Spotify, which also lists hot hits and trending tunes from Volkswagen Retailer staff across the UK. Search for Volkswagen Retailer Top Hits to listen to their favourite tracks.

Whatever the preferred tunes or genres, Volkswagen’s latest cars make sure passengers can hear every beat, high note and harmony. Smartphones can be paired wirelessly with infotainment screens in seconds using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and models fitted with Harman Kardon speakers deliver razor-sharp acoustics.

From Beach Boys nostalgia to electropop Dragons
Volkswagen fans clearly have wide-ranging tastes in music. The Summer Playlist spans more than five decades of hits, from timeless classics to modern anthems. The oldest song is from 1964 (I Get Around by The Beach Boys) while the youngest was released in 2017 (Thunder by Imagine Dragons).

American rock seems to be the pick of the genres, followed by pop with a smattering of country, blues and electronic music. Volkswagen drivers also seem to like songs that are energetic and nostalgic; 12 songs on the list match both of these moods, the rest being uplifting, melancholic and dreamy (playlist facts compiled with the help of AI).

Nissan Launches Segment First 10-Year Extended Warranty Plan For New Nissan Magnite

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Nissan Motor India has launched a first of its kind 10-Year Extended Warranty Plan for the New Nissan Magnite. This is a segment first customer-focused initiative that underscores the brand’s long-term commitment to quality, reliability, and peace of mind. This plan has been announced immediately after the success of the New Nissan Magnite scoring a 5-star rating on overall passenger safety with a perfect 5-star rating on AOP (Adult Occupant Safety).

The plan offers 3 years of standard warranty, extendable through flexible plans of up to a 10-Year Extended Warranty Plan, ensuring a full decade of driving confidence and protection applicable for up to 10 years/2 lakh kilometres at a super affordable price of just 22 paise/kilometre or 12 INR/Day.

This 10-Year Extended Warranty Plan is designed to give customers greater confidence and peace of mind. This is part of Nissan’s customer service promise which includes service with value, trust and aimed at a sustainable future for Nissan customers. It reinforces Nissan’s global promise of Japanese DNA, quality standards, robust reliability and premium craftsmanship and technology.

With Nissan’s 10-Year Extended Warranty Plan, customers can enjoy complete peace of mind for up to 10 years. Comprehensive coverage offers cashless repairs across the country at any Nissan-authorised service workshops, with no limit on the number or value of claims. It ensures significant savings on unforeseen repair costs while guaranteeing high-quality service using genuine Nissan spare parts. Additionally, the Extended Warranty Plan can be easily financed through Nissan Finance along with the purchase of a new vehicle, offering customers seamless and convenient ownership experience.

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “The New Nissan Magnite has emerged as a symbol of quality, reliability, safety, and long-term value for Indian customers, and we’re proud to see it stand tall with a prestigious 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP making it one of the safest B-SUVs in India. With the launch of our 10-Year Extended Warranty Plan, we’re going beyond the normal to offer a bold promise—a worry-free ownership for a decade. This initiative gives customers the freedom to enjoy their New Nissan Magnite without compromise, backed by Nissan’s proven quality, engineering and service excellence. We want our customers to focus on creating memorable journeys with the new Nissan Magnite, while we take care of the rest.”

McLaren Project: Endurance Debuts Triple Crown Inspired Livery During Monterey Car Week

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The McLaren Le Mans Hypercar was unveiled in a new livery for depositors and prospective buyers of the highly exclusive Project: Endurance customer car program during a private event at Monterey Car Week. Presented by McLaren Group Holdings CEO, Nick Collins and McLaren Racing CEO, Zak Brown, and hosted by Justin Bell, third place overall finisher at the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans in the #51 McLaren F1 GTR, Project: Endurance showcased a new livery with a nod to the famed 1974 Indianapolis 500 winning McLaren M16.

First revealed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June, the McLaren Hypercar will make its competitive debut in the 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) as McLaren campaigns to again win the Triple Crown of motorsport – this time in a single season.

The new livery takes its inspiration from the first of McLaren’s Triple Crown victories, when the M16, driven by Texan Johnny Rutherford, won the 1974 Indianapolis 500. The body colour is updated to McLaren Orange with a dark blue centre strip that is inspired by the colour of the Texas flag, and the roof of the cockpit is adorned with the lone white star of Texas as carried on the helmet design used by Rutherford – who was known as ‘Lone Star JR.’ The livery carries Lone Star JR’s race number 3 as well as McLaren’s Speedy Kiwi and Speedmark logos.

Project: Endurance offers the opportunity to own an authentic Le Mans Hypercar – a driving experience few will ever experience – and to be at the very heart of an elite motorsport development and testing program. This includes full behind-the-scenes access to the upcoming McLaren United AS WEC campaign, key team personnel and drivers as well as a comprehensive track driving program at world-famous race circuits.

Nick Collins, CEO, McLaren Group Holdings, said: “There is a huge level of excitement for Project: Endurance around the globe with customers and fans. The opportunity to be one of only a few to own this Le Mans Hypercar and be directly involved in the development and testing program is a very special proposition. We’re looking forward to showcasing Project: Endurance, with a livery tied specifically to our motorsports heritage in the US, to Americas customers and prospects throughout August.”

Inclusive to the Project: Endurance ownership experience, customers will enjoy a two-year McLaren customer track program that includes some of the world’s best race circuits. Each owner will receive driver coaching from a race professional, with individual pit crew and race engineers supporting throughout, allowing them a pathway to master their hypercar and push their limits at the pinnacle of sportscar racing.

Project: Endurance will be further showcased at events in Dallas and Miami through the end of August.

Nissan Launches New Magnite KURO Special Edition

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Nissan Motor India Private Limited (NMIPL) today announced the launch of its much-awaited New Nissan Magnite KURO Special Edition, a striking and premium, black-themed variant of its popular compact SUV. Starting at INR 8.30 Lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi), the KURO Special Edition embodies ‘the boldest black’ philosophy, blending ‘boldest styling’, ‘suave interior black theme’ and Japanese-inspired design cues. The New Nissan Magnite KURO Special Edition is available for bookings at an attractive amount of INR 11,000. Customers can reserve their vehicle through authorized Nissan Motor India dealerships or by visiting the official Nissan Motor India website: http://www.nissan.in

The Magnite KURO Special Edition takes its name from the Japanese word for ‘BLACK’, celebrating an elevated sense of sophistication and Japanese design precision. This Special Edition offers a unique visual identity, boasting an all-black exterior and interior, making a premium, imposing and stylish statement both outside and inside. To enhance the customer experience and convenience, the Magnite Kuro Special Edition is available on the Nissan website through a visually impactful 3D configurator with photorealistic visuals, feature interactions and end to end journey.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS:

· The Magnite KURO Special Edition is being offered with both turbo-petrol and naturally aspirated petrol powertrain options

· A distinct and exclusive ‘KURO’ badge under the Magnite branding on the left fender

· A piano black front grille, resin black front and rear skid plates, gloss black roof rails, R16 diamond cut alloy wheels, and black door handles

· The Magnite KURO Special Edition comes with Signature Black LED headlamps with Lightsaber Turn Indicator as standard for better visibility and commanding road presence

· A premium and dark-themed interior with midnight themed dashboard, piano black finished gear shift garnish, piano black finished steering insert, sun visors and door trims

· Feature upgrades include sable black wireless charger as standard and a stealth dash cam as an accessory

Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, said: “The New Nissan Magnite KURO Special Edition embodies bold design and refined craftsmanship, thoughtfully created in response to strong customer demand for a distinctive, premium, and feature-packed offering. The previous edition of the Nissan Magnite KURO Special Edition received an overwhelming response from customers for its striking all-black aesthetic and unique identity”.

He further added, “The New Nissan Magnite KURO Special Edition elevates the Magnite’s SUV presence while staying true to Nissan’s core promise of exceptional value, advanced innovation, and uncompromised safety. The recent 5-star GNCAP is testimony to our commitment to safety and deliver world class products from India under our ‘One Car, One World’ strategy. To celebrate this achievement, we are also introducing a brand new colour – Metallic Grey to the Magnite line-up.”

Further strengthening its appeal, the New Nissan Magnite has recently been awarded a 5-star Overall Passenger Safety rating from Global NCAP, making it one of the safest SUVs in India and South Africa. It achieved a perfect 5-star rating in the most credible GNCAP tests. Built on the enhanced CMF-A+ platform, the New Nissan Magnite, launched in October 2024, boasts of over 40 + standard safety features including 6 airbags, improved body structure incorporating 67% high tensile strength steel (>440Mpa), 6 Airbags, ABS + EBD, ESC, TCS, HSA, Brake Assist, TPMS among others.

Building on the Magnite’s success and recent GNCAP rating accolades, Nissan Motor India has also introduced a new metallic grey colour option, offering customers a fresh choice to match their personal style. The colour option will be available in the Tekna, Tekna + and N Connecta variants.