Police crackdown targets catalytic converter thieves

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March 16, 2022

Police catalytic converter theft crackdown

Police forces across the UK have taken part in a seven-day operation to target metal crime and money laundering.

Criminals responsible for facilitating the theft of catalytic converters from cars were among those included in the crackdown.

More than 600 premises across the country were visited between Thursday 10 and Wednesday 16 February. The operation resulted in 30 arrests.

Turning up the heat on metal theft

Operation Goldjuno, coordinated by British Transport Police, sought to ensure scrap metal traders are complying with the 2013 Scrap Metal Dealers Act.

Police forces worked alongside experts from the Joint Unit for Waste Crime (JUWC), Smartwater Group and motor industry representatives. Their task included assessing financial records kept by metal traders, and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation.

Along with the arrests made, several scrap metal businesses were served with closure notices.
Police and partner agencies also helped drivers to forensically mark more than 1,400 catalytic converters.

Doing so helps reduce the risk of a catalytic converter being stolen, and links it to an owner should a thief attempt to sell it.

Tackling organised crime gangs

Catalytic converter theft has become endemic across the UK, with more than 38,000 stolen during 2021. Surging metal prices continue to make them a favourite of thieves, who are drawn to the precious metals – including palladium, platinum and rhodium – contained inside them.

Older hybrid cars have been a constant target for metal thieves. This is due to the belief that lower emissions leave the catalytic converter in better condition.

BTP Assistant Chief Constable Charlie Doyle, said: “The police response to metal theft has significantly increased over the past 18 months and we’re making substantial progress in disrupting organised crime groups operating in this area of crime.

“By taking a multi-agency approach, we’re maximising our ability to identify those involved, making it harder for them to sell stolen metal and gain from their criminal activities.”

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Top Gear star’s classic Ferrari 512 TR up for auction

By

John Redfern

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March 15, 2022

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A 1992 Ferrari 512 TR belonging to Top Gear presenter Chris Harris is currently listed for auction.

Described by Harris as being his “favourite classic supercar”, he will wave goodbye to the Ferrari after nine years of ownership.

The 512 TR is one of 42 cars being sold as part of the special ‘Supercar Sunday’ event, organised by the Collecting Cars auction website.

‘A medallion-man supercar’

Launched in 1991, the 512 TR was a development of the iconic Ferrari Testarossa. Powered by a rear-mounted 4.9-litre flat-12 engine, design changes liberated extra performance versus its predecessor.

Generating 422hp at 6,750rpm, along with 361lb ft of torque, the 512 TR has real supercar performance. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 195mph.

Other improvements over the Testarossa included larger brakes and quicker steering, plus interior changes to make the 512 TR easier to live with.

More than 2,200 examples were produced, but only 52 are believed to have been made for the UK market.

Driven as Maranello intended

Bought by Harris in 2013, this car is actually his second 512 TR. He judged an earlier low-mileage example as too clean to be used regularly. However, Harris had no concerns about driving this Ferrari.

Around 14,000 miles have been added to the odometer, including video appearances as part of the Chris Harris on Cars series. Seeing the Ferrari going sideways demonstrates that Harris was certainly not shy about using it.

The interior is mockingly described as “junk” by Harris, although it benefits from cream leather and red carpets.

Maintenance has been undertaken regularly during the past nine years, with the car currently receiving a full cambelt service ahead of its sale.

Sunday drivers wanted

Harris says that something has told him it is time to move on from the 512 TR, even though he admits he will miss driving it.

The auction for the Ferrari is currently live, with bidding due to end on Sunday 20 March.

It represents one of 42 hand-picked supercars being sold through the Collecting Cars Supercar Sunday event.

Other lots available include a Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, Lamborghini Diablo VT and an ultra-rare Koenig C62.

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Ford GT owned by Kid Rock heads to auction

By

John Redfern

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March 15, 2022

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A 2005 Ford GT supercar with a famous owner will head to auction later this month.

This early first-generation Ford GT has been owned from new by Robert James Ritchie, better known as the musician Kid Rock.

Although never far from controversy himself, Kid Rock’s choice of vehicle is likely to generate plenty of interest when it crosses the RM Sotheby’s auction block in Fort Lauderdale.

American hero

Launched as a concept at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show, the first-generation Ford GT caused a stir with its retro-inspired styling.

Although it resembled the original Ford GT40 on the outside, the GT packed thoroughly modern performance. The production car used a mid-mounted 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine, offering up 550 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque.

With a six-speed manual transmission as the only option, the GT could accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than four seconds. A top speed of 205 mph placed it in true supercar territory.

Only 4,038 examples were made between 2004 and 2006, with records suggesting Kid Rock’s GT was one of the earliest.

‘One for the road’

Built in August 2004, Kid Rock’s car was finished in Mark IV Red with full body stripes. It represents one of 669 examples wearing the same color scheme for the 2005 model-year.

All four available options were specified by Kid Rock. This means the GT comes with BBS alloy wheels, red-painted brake calipers, a McIntosh sound system and the exterior stripes.

A poster signed by Camilo Pardo, the Ford GT’s designer, will be part of the sale. Kid Rock will include a personally autographed guitar, too.

All Summer Long

Despite the impressive performance of the GT, Kid Rock has added just 3,100 miles to its odometer.

First-generation Ford GTs have become an auction staple, with retro looks and strong performance drawing in collectors. Adding a celebrity owner to the mix is likely to further the interest in this particular car.

Kid Rock’s GT will be sold as part of the RM Sotheby’s sale in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Taking place between 25 and 26 March 2022, other highlights will include a 2005 Porsche Carrera GT and a 1985 Ferrari 512 BBi.

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Majority of drivers think car headlights are too bright

By

John Redfern

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March 12, 2022

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Modern car headlights are too bright according to nine in 10 drivers (89 percent) surveyed by the RAC.

A similar proportion say they are often dazzled by other vehicles when driving, increasing the risk of road accidents.

Such is the worry for some, 16 percent of those drivers concerned by bright headlights have now stopped driving at night.

Younger drivers seeing the light

Although older drivers said they were more likely to stop driving at night, it is younger drivers who are more likely to complain about bright headlights.

Almost a third (30 percent) of those aged 17 to 34 think most headlights are too bright, compared to just 19 percent of those aged 65 and over.

Among this group of younger drivers, 70 percent believe the risk of accidents is increased due to intense headlight glare.

Overall, 63 percent of motorists who get dazzled believe it is happening more often than a year or two ago.

Why are drivers being dazzled?

Of the 2,700 people surveyed, 23 percent believed modern LED headlights are to blame for the dazzling effect. However, 22 percent do not think any particular headlight technology was to blame, and more than a third cannot tell the difference.

The RAC says the prevalence of higher vehicles, such as SUVs, is also a potential factor. Some 61 percent of those in lower cars noted a problem, compared to just 28 percent in taller vehicles.

Rod Dennis, RAC spokesperson, said: “It’s clear that the problem of drivers being dazzled by the headlights of others isn’t going away, and in fact our research shows that a large proportion of drivers say they’re getting dazzled more regularly now than a year or two ago.

“What’s more, and perhaps surprisingly, it’s younger drivers who are more likely to complain about glare, which suggests the matter has little – if anything – to do with an individual’s eyesight.”

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German sports car brand Wiesmann makes a comeback

By

John Redfern

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March 11, 2022

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Sports car manufacturer Wiesmann has announced plans to launch a radical ‘world-first model’.

Currently branded as ‘Project Thunderball’, Wiesmann promises the new car will be ‘befitting of the modern era’, but retain the brand’s ‘DNA of timeless design elegance’.

Originally founded in 1988, Wiesmann closed due to financial difficulties in 2014. The firm was subsequently purchased by UK-based car enthusiast, Roheen Berry.

Ready to charge

Details of Project Thunderball have yet to be confirmed, although the camouflaged roadster prototype seen here suggests that retro styling cues will continue.

The lack of obvious exhaust tailpipes, along with references to the company having ‘newly recharged ambition’, point to an electrified powertrain.

Wiesmann had previously been preparing a new sports car, codenamed Project Gecko. This was expected to use a BMW-sourced twin-turbo V8, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

“This is just the beginning”

The company’s association with BMW stretches back to its earliest models, and peaked with the 2008 Wiesmann MF5. This featured BMW’s 5.0-litre V10 engine, offering the potential for a top speed beyond 190mph.

Production of Project Thunderball will be undertaken at Wiesmann’s ‘Gecko’ factory, located in Dülmen, Germany.

Roheen Berry said: “As the automotive industry undergoes its biggest revolution in a century, there can be no better time to announce the return of a refreshed, reborn and recharged motoring icon.

“Thunderball will continue Wiesmann’s reputation for setting the standard for performance, craftsmanship and sheer enjoyment. With its unequivocal style, this is the Wiesmann fit for the 21st century, and this is just the beginning.”

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Microbus reborn! Volkswagen reveals all-electric ID Buzz

By

John Redfern

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March 10, 2022

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After endless concept cars and teasers, Volkswagen has finally revealed the electric ID Buzz MPV and van.

Inspired by the iconic Type 2 Microbus, the all-new ID Buzz offers practicality with retro styling.

Although its looks recall the 1950s and 1960s, Volkswagen says the technology inside the electric ID Buzz is thoroughly modern.

Is the MPV cool again?

Nostalgia plays a key part in the styling of the ID Buzz. The prominent VW badge on the V-shaped front panel is an obvious nod to the famous original. Two-tone paint options will be available across the range.

Jozef Kabaň, head of Volkswagen Design, notes that: “The ID. Buzz is timeless, sustainable and yet also extremely functional – that makes it unique.”

The vehicles are based on Volkswagen’s MEB electric platform. This will feature a 77kWh battery pack at launch, which is connected to a 150kW electric motor. Just like the Microbus, it sends power to the rear wheels.

The ID Buzz is compatible with 11kW wallboxes, along with DC rapid charging devices. Using the latter allows the batteries to be boosted from five to 80 percent in 30 minutes.

‘Lounge-like ambience’

Volkswagen promises that the MPV version of the ID Buzz will deliver a ‘lounge-like, friendly ambience’, with room for five people inside.

Sliding rear doors will make climbing into the back easier, with access to the boot through a conventional tailgate. With the sliding rear bench in place, the ID Buzz offers 1,121 litres of luggage space. Folding them flat results in a colossal 2,205 litres.

Standard equipment on the ID Buzz MPV will include 10-colour interior ambient lighting, climate control air-con, LED headlights and 19-inch wheels. A digital dashboard and 10-inch multimedia touchscreen will feature, too.

Buyers will be able to specify two-tone interiors that complement the exterior paint colours.

Zero-emissions cargo transport

The interior of the ID Buzz Cargo will be more practical, with Volkswagen fitting a ‘robust’ floor covering in the cab.

Customers have a choice of two- or three-seat configurations, with a special ‘Buzz Box’ creating a space to store a laptop or clipboard.

A fixed partition will separate the load space from the cabin, with room for two Euro pallets to be carried. The ID Buzz Cargo has a maximum payload capacity of 650kg.

Latest technology as standard

Technology will play a key part in the ID Buzz, with Volkswagen installing its latest ID software. This includes a ‘Car2X’ local warning system to spot hazards, plus the option of a memory function for automated parking on saved routes.

The ID Buzz will be compatible with ‘Plug and Charge’ devices, enabling payment simply by connecting a charger. Bidirectional charging will allow the ID Buzz to feed surplus energy from the battery into the customer’s home.

Production of both models will be at Volkswagen’s Hannover plant, which was responsible for building the original Microbus.

An official launch is planned for autumn 2022, with customers in certain markets able to place orders from May.

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Urban-Air Port to bring ‘new-age travel’ to Coventry

By

John Redfern

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March 9, 2022

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More details have been announced of the world’s very first Urban-Air Port, due to open in Coventry next month.

Set to become the blueprint for 200 similar sites around the world, construction of Air-One began in February this year. Previously the UK company had only aimed to build 65 sites.

Each Urban-Air Port will provide infrastructure for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) passenger vehicles, along with capacity for unmanned delivery drones.

Brands ready for take-off

The Urban-Air Port project is a collaboration with Hyundai’s Urban Air Mobility division, Supernal, and is backed by Coventry City Council.

Supernal’s first flying taxi is scheduled to enter commercial operations in 2028.

As part of the Urban-Air Port concept, the company wants to use its hubs for pop-up retail offerings. It predicts that global passenger numbers could reach 28 million a year in the next five years, offering an attractive audience for retailers.

A number of brands, including Anatomie, Paul & Shark and Bottega, have all committed to being part of the Urban-Air Port experience.

“More than a landing pad”

Passengers will be able to use the Urban-Air Port smartphone app to order from the various brands. This will include the potential for delivery by drone, from one of the company’s planned CityBox hubs.

Ricky Sandhu, founder and executive chairman of Urban-Air Port, said: “Once complete, Air-One – the world’s first fully operational hub for flying taxis and delivery drones – will spark into life an entirely new world of affordable, zero-emission and congestion-free travel. However, this is not just about getting from A to B, it’s about the journey itself.

“Air-One is so much more than a landing pad for flying taxis and delivery drones. It will deliver a world-class interactive customer experience – one that can be replicated right across the world as we build our network of over 200 sites globally.”

The Coventry Urban-Air Port is open to the public from 28 April to 15 May 2022, with tours of the site available.

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9WERKS Awards celebrates excellence in the Porsche industry

By

Tim Pitt

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March 8, 2022

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9WERKS, the UK’s leading online platform and community for Porsche enthusiasts, has announced its inaugural Awards event, which will reward excellence across the Porsche industry.

Businesses and personalities from the world of Porsche sales, servicing, tuning and restoration will be recognised at the black tie event on Thursday 7 April.

Voting will be open to the public, with Richard Aucock and Tim Pitt from Motoring Research among the judges on the expert panel.

Tony Hatter answers your questions

Guest of Honour at the 9WERKS Awards will be former Porsche chief designer, Tony Hatter (pictured above in the one-off 911 Turbo gifted to Louise Piech, daughter of Ferdinand Porsche, for her 70th birthday).

Hatter’s work includes the 993-generation Porsche 911, Carrera GT supercar and Le Mans-winning 911 GT1.

The event, which has limited tickets remaining, takes place in the unique setting of Shorade Accident Repair, an official Porsche Recommended Repairer in Cannock, Staffordshire. Guests will enjoy canapés and drinks on arrival, buffet food and an audience Q&A with Tony Hatter. A licensed bar will also be on-site.

Vote for your winners

There are nine categories in the 9WERKS Awards, with voting split between the public and a panel of qualified experts. To take part, simply sign in to 9WERKS – membership is free – and choose your winners.

The categories awaiting your votes are:

Best Porsche Sales – Specialist
Best Porsche Servicing – Specialist
Best Official Porsche Centre
Best 9WERKS Radio Guest
Best Porsche Tuner
Best Restoration Project
Best International Porsche Specialist
Outstanding Customer Experience
Personality Of The Year

Companies nominated include Paragon Porsche, Wrightune, JZM, RPM Technik, Jonathan Franklin Cars, Shorade Accident Repair and Heritage Parts Centre.

Derek Bell MBE and Mark Sumpter are among the nominees for Best 9WERKS Radio Guest.

By enthusiasts, for enthusiasts

9WERKS founder Lee Sibley said: “The Awards celebrates excellence in our Porsche industry, with 9WERKS seen as the independent bedrock for promoting and upholding these core requirements of quality and customer service expected by brand enthusiasts.”

A limited number of tickets are still available for the 9WERKS Awards, priced at £40 each. Follow this link to reserve your place today.

9WERKS has also partnered with The Moat House hotel in Stafford for overnight accommodation. Call 01785 712217 and quote ‘9WERKS Awards’ for a discounted rate of £120 for a double room or £100 for a single room. Both prices include breakfast. Alternatively, the Birmingham North Holiday Inn is also nearby.

Kia EV6 is Europe’s Car of the Year 2022

By

Richard Aucock

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February 28, 2022

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Kia has become the first South Korean car company to scoop the European Car of the Year award, with victory for the pure electric EV6 in 2022.

The Kia pipped the new Renault Megane E-Tech electric and Hyundai Ioniq 5 in a closely-fought contest.

Kia ended up with 279 points, beating the Renault’s 265 points and the Hyundai’s 261 points.

The three cars were well clear of the other four finalists: the Cupra Born, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Peugeot 308 and Skoda Enyaq iV.

Six of the seven 2022 finalists were pure electric cars, with the seventh, the Peugeot 308, available as a plug-in hybrid.

The European Car of the Year prize has been running since 1964, with 61 jurors taking part in the 2022 competition.

However, due to the war in Ukraine, the Russian jurors were suspended from this year’s competition, while the Russian flag was removed from the presentation.

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Global shortages mean delivery delays for Isuzu D-Max pick-up

By

John Redfern

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February 26, 2022

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Forget the idea of car waiting lists being limited to the most exclusive supercars or bespoke creations.

Now, even the dependable Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck has seen demand outstrip supply in the UK.

Launched in 2021, the third-generation D-Max pick-up has collected numerous awards. However, it is not simply this run of success that has led to long waiting times.

‘Unprecedented trading conditions’

Isuzu admits that, like many other automotive companies, its UK operation currently faces ‘unprecedented trading conditions’.

In particular, the firm notes that ‘a worldwide shortage of key components, semiconductors and materials’ is having a direct impact on its operations. Along with this, shipping delays are seeing customers face much longer waits to actually receive their vehicles.

Isuzu saw record sales during 2021. The brand posted a 16.9 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Pick up the pace

Alan Able, brand director of Isuzu UK, said “We are committed to providing the most transparent sales process possible, and urge any customers who may wish to purchase a D-Max later in 2022 or perhaps into 2023 to start discussions with their local Isuzu dealer as soon as possible.

“Although not impacted as severely as many other manufacturers, we are still working tirelessly with the vehicle production facility in Thailand to minimise customer waiting times.”

Earlier this year, Toyota announced that Japanese buyers of the revised Land Cruiser SUV may have to wait four years to take delivery.

In 2018, Volkswagen suspended UK orders of the Up GTI due to record levels of demand.

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Turning up the heat on metal theft

Tackling organised crime gangs

‘A medallion-man supercar’

Driven as Maranello intended

Sunday drivers wanted

American hero

‘One for the road’

All Summer Long

Younger drivers seeing the light

Why are drivers being dazzled?

Ready to charge

“This is just the beginning”

Is the MPV cool again?

‘Lounge-like ambience’

Zero-emissions cargo transport

Latest technology as standard

Brands ready for take-off

“More than a landing pad”

Tony Hatter answers your questions

Vote for your winners

By enthusiasts, for enthusiasts

More Porsche content

‘Unprecedented trading conditions’

Pick up the pace