Drivers are being warned to prepare for ‘Frantic Friday’ as millions of motorists hit the roads for their summer getaway.
Around 5.3 million extra cars are expected to be on the road this Friday, with the M25 and M1 likely to see the longest delays. Overall, drivers are expected to take 13.4 million separate leisure trips between Friday and the end of the weekend.
That’s the highest number in five years and 4 million more than the same period last year, according to the RAC and transportation analytics firm INRIX.
Drivers on the M1 and M25 are likely to be delayed by 90 minutes and 60 minutes respectively, but congestion is also expected on the M40, M20, M6 and M5 motorways, along with the A30 heading through Devon and into Cornwall.
Although Friday and Saturday are likely to be the busiest days on the road, some drivers will attempt an early getaway, with Thursday afternoon seeing a spike in traffic from around lunchtime.
‘Frantic Friday’ and the weekend at a glance
Date
Leisure trips by car
Peak periods
Quieter periods
Longest delays
Thursday 18 July
3.7 million
1.45pm to 6.45pm
After 8pm
M40 south (J14 to J11)
M5 south (J4 to J8)
‘Frantic Friday’ 19 July
5.3 million
11am to 6.45pm
After 8pm
M1 south (J16 to J6)
M25 anticlockwise (J4 to J11)
Saturday 20 July
5 million
11am to 2pm
Before 9.30am or after 4.30pm
M20 west (J7 to J3)
A30 west (Pathfinder to Whiddon Down)
Sunday 21 July
3.1 million
1pm to 3pm
Before 11am or after 8pm
M1 north (J12 to J16)
M25 anticlockwise (J4 to J1)
Monday 22 July
2.8 million
11.30am to 6pm
After 7pm
M6 north (J5 to J10a)
M25 anticlockwise (J7 to J12)
‘Hours of frustration’
RAC patrol of the year Ben Aldous said: “The last thing any family wants is a breakdown spoiling the start of their summer holiday they’ve no doubt been looking forward to for a long time. Traffic jams are pretty much guaranteed from the end of this weekend and while it’s possible to predict where some of these will be, every summer we see extra delays caused by broken-down vehicles blocking lanes, leaving drivers faced with hours of frustration.
“We therefore urge holidaymakers to heed the advice and spend just a few minutes checking the basics like oil, coolant and tyre tread and pressure on their cars before they get packed up. Doing this could make the difference between a smooth and trouble-free journey, and one plagued by the stress and wasted time that comes from being broken-down at the roadside.”
Use the FORCES
Drivers are being advised to use the FORCES to keep moving over the ‘Frantic Friday’ weekend. FORCES is a six-point checklist drivers can use before setting off for a long journey.
Fuel: don’t risk running out of fuel – refill at the beginning of your journey
Oil: check it’s at the right level to reduce the chances of overheating in traffic
Rubber: tyres need to be properly inflated and in good condition
Coolant: this does a vital job in ensuring the engine runs at the right temperature. If it’s not between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ levels, this could be the sign of a problem
Electrics: your wipers will help keep your windscreen clear of bugs, and you’ll need your lights on during any heavy downpours. The electrics also control your indicators and windows, so check there are no problems
You’re looking at a tragic missed opportunity. This is the stillborn Caterham coupe codenamed ‘C120’ – the joint-venture with Alpine that became the A110. Sadly, Caterham was unable to match Renault’s investment and withdrew from the project in 2014. With hints of Jaguar F-Type and Ford Puma, this curvaceous full-size clay model shows what could have been.
Clay pride
Alpine and Caterham began working together in 2012. The French wanted to re-launch their defunct sports car brand and the Brits hoped for a more mainstream model to complement the back-to-basics Seven. The plan was to build 6,000 cars a year, split evenly between the two brands. These were the heady days when Caterham had its own Formula One team, remember. Anything seemed possible.
Gatwick express
A manual gearbox was mooted, something the production Alpine doesn’t have. And the C120 would likely have spawned a GT4 race car. Given the rapturous acclaim the A110 has received, the prospect of a Caterham version is a poignant one for petrolheads. This model is now displayed at Caterham Cars’ showroom near Gatwick – alongside other highlights from the marque’s history. Read on for a guided tour.
A British car to beat the world
Today, Caterham is back to being a one-model marque. Nonetheless, with a car as unique and iconic as the Seven, there’s still plenty to get excited about. Launched in 1957 as the Lotus Seven, Caterham has manufactured the retro-look roadster since 1973. A six-month waiting list suggests it has plenty of life in it yet.
Read our first drive of the Caterham Seven Sprint
Top Gear track star
This Seven Superlight R500 takes pride of place in the Caterham Cars’ foyer. It’s the very same Seven that blitzed the Top Gear test track in 1min 17.9sec in 2008 – earning the team’s Car of the Year accolade in the process.
Endorsed by Hammond – and the Stig
With a 267hp 2.0-litre Ford Duratec engine, the R500 explodes to 60mph in just 2.88sec. Richard Hammond remarked: “The Caterham is faster than the £1m Veyron. What an amazing little car!” The Stig, meanwhile, declined to comment. But we suspect he approved…
The bare essentials
Inside, the Superlight lives up to its name, with nothing but the essentials for fast driving. Note the racing-style Stack instruments, gearshift indicator lights above the steering wheel and six-speed sequential manual gearbox. Serious stuff.
Caterham Seven Sprint
At the opposite end of the Seven spectrum is the limited-edition Sprint. Only 60 examples of this retro-look roadster were made, to celebrate 60 years of the Seven. Launched at the Goodwood Revival in 2016, it was sold-out within a week.
Old-school cool
The Sprint resembles the original Lotus Seven, with flared front wings, a powder-coated grey chassis, cream steel wheels, a polished exhaust and classic-style badges. Underneath, however, it has a modern three-cylinder Suzuki engine.
Into the red
Inside, the Sprint boasts sumptuous scarlet leather, retro Smiths gauges and a wood-rimmed Moto-Lita steering wheel. The only options are armrests, a tonneau cover, stainless steel rear wing guards and a lower floor for extra cabin space. Squint and you could be in a Jaguar E-Type – or any other 1960s British sports car.
Plaque in black
There’s also a numbered plaque in front of the passenger showing which of the 60 cars is yours. The Sprint is a surefire future classic, so little details like this matter. Note that Caterhams are now built in Dartford, Kent – rather than their original home of Caterham in Surrey.
Sprint and SuperSprint
The success of the Sprint led Caterham to launch the Seven Supersprint (left) a year later. Another evocative retro remake, it was again limited to 60 units, but this time the production run sold out in seven hours. Very apt.
Wet and wild
With tiny aero screens and no doors, weather protection on the SuperSprint is best described as ‘rudimentary’ (you could also opt for a conventional windscreen and roof). Delicious details include an aluminium cut-off switch, chrome mirrors and a Sebring-style fuel filler cap, plus a range of period paint colours and decals.
Chairman of the broad
One of the (many) unusual things about the Seven is that its wheels stand proud of the chassis. That makes the cabin surprisingly narrow – and a tight squeeze for tall drivers. The £2,500 wide chassis option seen here helps counter this, increasing the overall width of the car from 1,575mm to 1,685mm.
Caterham AeroSeven concept
Fast-forwarding into the future, here’s the fabulous AeroSeven concept car. It was unveiled at the Singapore Grand Prix and could have been the replacement for the ageing Seven. However, budgets were tight and customers weren’t convinced, so the Seven lives on.
Packed with F1 tech
The AeroSeven featured plenty of tech from Caterham’s F1 exploits, including inboard pushrod suspension, launch control and advanced aerodynamics. It’s powered by a 240hp Ford Duratec engine and reaches 60mph in ‘less than four seconds’.
Naked launch
We love all the naked carbonfibre inside the AeroSeven, although it doesn’t exactly look cosseting. Still, who cares about fripperies like a windscreen when you’re driving something this cool? We want one.
Caterham 21
The stillborn 21 is another Caterham that could have replaced the Seven: indeed, most used the same Rover K-Series engines. It was launched in 1994 and remained in production for five years, yet only 48 cars were made.
A softer Seven
The 21’s interior is certainly more accommodating than a Seven (not hard, admittedly) – and it’s more practical, too. However, the shape of the doors means the windows don’t wind down. If you want a side-draught, you need to remove them altogether.
It’s the Mondeo, man
An extra point if you spotted that the 21’s tail lights come from the Ford Mondeo. It also used front indicators from the Suzuki Cappuccino and wing mirrors from the Rover 200. Such parts were simply too expensive for Caterham to make in-house.
The Lotus position
The main reason for the 21’s failure was the launch of the Lotus Elise soon afterwards. The car from Norfolk was better resolved and more fun to drive: the Caterham didn’t stand a chance. Ironically, Caterham Cars had this lovely S1 Elise for sale in its showroom. A trade-in against a new Seven, perhaps?
Caterham SP/300.R
Hardcore, you know the score… This is the track-only Caterham SP/300.R, a joint project with British racing car constructor, Lola. With a supercharged 300hp engine (355hp on overboost), this four-wheeled weapon will reach 170mph. If you’re brave enough.
The ultimate track-day toy
Caterham says of the SP/300.R: “The feeling of the car beneath you, inspiring you to push boundaries. The aggression of the forces acting on your body. The satisfaction of placing the car with absolute precision. The way the car communicates with you, constantly feeding a stream of data to every sense, synapse and nerve ending. Only a true driver knows these feelings. This is driving.” Well, quite.
The wheel deal
The SP/300.R’s steering wheel is pure racing car, with gearshift indicator lights and a button for calling the pits. Spot the yellow ‘Pass’ button the right – used to give an extra power boost for overtaking. The sequential gearlever is also to the right of the wheel.
Prisoner of phwoar
A classic Seven in for a service. It’s painted green and yellow – the same colours as the Lotus Seven that famously featured in 1960s TV drama series, The Prisoner. Interestingly, the ‘KAR 120C’ registration plate of the Prisoner Seven is still owned by Caterham Cars.
Caterham Seven Classic
This lovely 2006 Classic would make a great starter Seven, with a 120hp 1.4-litre K-Series engine and just 7,441 miles on the clock. It’s advertised at £14,995 – further proof that Sevens simply don’t depreciate.
Kamui Kobayashi Edition
Just 10 examples of this lightweight, single-seat Seven were made. Designed by Caterham F1 Team’s Japanese driver, Kamui Kobayashi, it boasts a limited-slip differential, plenty of carbon fibre and a dashboard signed by Kamui himself. Yours for £34,995.
Mini Me Seven 620R
A first glance, this cut-down, single-seat Seven 620R looks terrifying. However, it’s powered by batteries rather than a 306hp supercharged Ford Duratec. Probably for the best.
Cutaway Caterham
Want to make your Seven even lighter? Why not remove the bodywork altogether? In truth, this stripped-down 160 is a show car – designed to reveal the inner workings of the Seven. A lot has changed since 1957…
Powered by Suzuki
That 660cc Suzuki engine might be small, but it still looks a snug fit beneath the Seven’s low-slung bonnet. No wonder all those louvres are needed to keep it cool. Imagine how hot the 306hp 620R parked next to it must get.
Sporty suspension
Here’s a closer look at the Seven’s double wishbone suspension, which delivers taut handling and keeps weight to a minimum. A variety of set-ups are available, for road or track use. The cheaper Seven 160 and Sprint models use a live rear axle.
Do it yourself
If you’re handy with a spanner, you can save around £3,400 by building a Seven yourself. Caterham supplies a painted chassis with wiring loom, dashboard, fuel tank, fuel lines, brake pipes and pedal box already fitted. Reckon on 80-100 hours to complete the job, after which your car will have to pass an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test.
Lotus Cosworth T127
Like the Seven itself, the short-lived Caterham F1 Team began life under the Lotus banner. This Lotus T127 has a Cosworth V8 engine and was raced by Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen in the 2010 season. Sadly, it never managed a podium finish.
The car that became a Caterham
Team Lotus was rebranded as Caterham F1 Team at the end of 2011, at the behest of Caterham’s charismatic owner, Tony Fernandes. The decision followed a legal battle between Team Lotus and the rival Group Lotus over the use of the name in F1.
Caterham CT01
Caterham F1 Team made its debut in 2012 with the CT01, powered by a 2.4-litre Renault V8 and piloted by Heikki Kovalainen and Vitaly Petrov. Its best result was an 11th-place finish at the final grand prix of the year in Brazil.
Going with the flow
Just look at the design of the Caterham CT01’s carbonfibre front wing. It ain’t pretty, but it sure is effective. The car hits 100mph in 2.5 seconds, with a top speed of 225mph. No Seven even comes close.
Caterham kart
If all that sounds a bit intense, we also discovered this rather cool Caterham-branded kart in the corner of the showroom. Cue cliché about ‘go-kart handling’, etc…
Grass-roots motorsport
Speaking of racing, Caterham runs no less than six Seven-based series, depending on your talent and budget. The Caterham Academy is the first rung on the ladder, with road-legal cars and seven points-scoring events throughout the year. This 2011 Academy racer was for sale at £17,995.
Caterham Tracksport racer
Tracksport is Caterham’s mid-range racing championship. The number of rounds increases to 14, with each race lasting 30 minutes. The cars are no longer road-legal, so you’ll need a trailer as well.
One careful owner
For serious Seven racers, there’s the Superlight R300-S Championship. A car alone will cost you £38,000 – and you’ll spend plenty more on consumables and travel. This particular R300-S was driven by Dan Prosser, a motoring journalist for EVO magazine.
Simplify, then add lightness
The ghost of Colin Chapman looms large at Caterham Cars. Indeed, his famous mantra: “Simplify, then add lightness” is writ large on the wall. Ironically, this is actually a heavier Seven SV: the wide-bodied version for drivers with, well, wider bodies.
Out of the blocks
This year, the Seven has been replicated in Lego as part of a new 770-piece kit. It includes fully-detailed engine, removable nosecose, opening boot and axle stands that allow the wheels to be removed. One for the Christmas list.
A simple formula for success
The Caterham Seven might look old-fashioned, but don’t be deceived. A process of continuous evolution has kept this much-loved icon at the top of its game – putting smiles on faces and embarrassing Bugatti Veyrons along the way. Let’s hope it’s still going strong in another 60 years.
Caterham in Crawley
Caterham Cars’ showroom in Crawley is open to the public if you’d like to see these cars, and many others. They can also arrange test-drives if you are looking to buy. Just don’t expect to drive a Seven and go home without wanting one…
The UK’s largest public charging network for electric vehicles will offer contactless card payment on all 50kW rapid and 150kW ultra-fast chargers it installs going forward. Existing rapid charge points will also get the upgrade, with retro-fitting happening over the course of the next year.
Polar, the charging network operated by BP Chargemaster, has 450 rapid chargers across its 7,000-point network, a number due to rapidly expand over the coming months and years.
Contactless payment adds on-the-go and occasional-use convenience to complement the Polar Plus subscription service debuted in 2015. In addition, contactless payment – a first for a UK-based rapid-charging device – joins pay-as-you-go smartphone access at BP Chargemaster Polar points.
This news comes shortly after BP Chargemaster’s announcement last week that up to 200 50kW rapid-charge points are to be installed at Mitchells and Butlers bars and restaurants.
By October 2019, 50 points will already have been installed. As of today’s announcement, it looks like they will feature contactless payment, too.
BP acquired Chargemaster last year in a move it described as an ‘important step to scaling up and deploying fast and ultra-fast charging on BP’s UK forecourts’.
“At BP we believe that fast and convenient charging is critical to support the successful adoption of electric vehicles,” said BP’s Tufan Erginbilgic.
“Combining BP’s and Chargemaster’s complementary expertise, experience and assets is an important step towards offering fast and ultra-fast charging at BP sites across the UK, and to BP becoming the leading provider of energy to low carbon vehicles, on the road or at home.”
Murray Walker OBE has opened the new Television Room at the RAC Club, which is named in his honour as ‘the voice of F1’.
The room was commissioned in recognition of Walker’s lengthy career as Formula 1 commentator, which spanned 23 years.
“This is, as you can imagine, an enormously emotional occasion for me,” said Murray Walker, after cutting the ribbon to open the room.
“The Royal Automobile Club is the finest club in Britain and one of the finest clubs in the world. It is a linchpin of motorsport and to be associated with it in the way I am being associated with it is beyond my wildest hopes and dreams.”
The room features awards and memorabilia collected by Murray over the years, which have been donated to the club. Displayed items include a brick from the Indianapolis motor speedway – the famous brickyard – and a Royal Television Society Lifetime Achievement Award. Needless to say, there are a fair few parts one might once have found bolted to a Formula 1 car, too.
Murray Walker is a beloved figure in the F1 motor racing scene, instantly recognisable and known for his infectious enthusiasm for the sport.
The retired commentator, who is now 95, first spoke over races on the BBC in 1976, continuing until 1996. From then until his retirement in 2001, he became a part of the ITV Formula 1 commentary team.
“The Club is all about celebrating motoring icons, and Murray has been exactly that for motorsport fans across the globe,” said Ben Cussons, chairman of the Royal Automobile Club.
“His passion, enthusiasm and commitment to motorsport has already earned him his place in history, and we’re delighted to play a part in this with our new themed Television Room. I’m looking forward to watching members and guests enjoying his room on their visits to the club.”
Those attending the British Grand Prix on Saturday got an extra slice of on-track excitement, as the Aston Martin Valkyrie made an appearance.
The 1,160 hp hypercar took to the Silverstone circuit for a special demonstration run, showing off how quick the 6.5-litre Cosworth V12-powered car could potentially be.
With all 150 examples of the Valkyrie already sold, for many this may be the only chance to see one used in anger before they disappear into the hands of eager collectors.
Using the British Grand Prix for the Valkyrie’s debut was no coincidence. Aston Martin has worked extensively with the Red Bull Racing F1 team, using their knowledge and skills to develop it.
Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer, has been instrumental in the design of the Valkyrie. F1-influenced aerodynamics abound throughout, with Newey aiming to endow the Valkyrie with huge amounts of downforce.
On witnessing the debut, Newey commented: “To finally see Aston Martin Valkyrie running five years from when I first sat down and started sketching what this car could look like is quite an emotional day.
“With the change in vision angle as it comes past, and the noise, it is now doing what it is supposed to be doing, which is to move and be dynamic.”
Aston Martin test driver Chris Goodwin was responsible for driving the Valkyrie. Although not running at full speed, the debut was still important for Goodwin, who commented that driving it at Silverstone was “exceptionally special.”
The single lap demonstration has come after months of simulator work and digital modelling. Although the public debut marks a significant milestone, Aston Martin and Red Bull still have plenty of work to do.
Deliveries to customers are due to start in late 2019, giving only limited time to ensure the Valkyrie lives up to the expected price tag of more than £2 million.
Aston Martin has also committed the Valkyrie to competing at Le Mans in 2021, upping the workload even more.
Ford tuning specialist Roush has laid claim to the title of building the quickest production pickup truck the world has ever seen.
Its new 650 horsepower Ford F-150 Nitemare has been timed achieving the 0-60 mph sprint in under 4 seconds, when tested by a team of automotive industry experts.
The best time of 3.9 seconds is quick enough to embarrass sports cars like the Porsche 718 Cayman, or even a Lamborghini Gallardo, in a drag race.
Two versions of the Roush F-150 Nitemare were tested on a drag strip, both in four-wheel drive configuration and with Sport mode engaged.
It was the Regular Cab version of the Nitemare which managed to dip below 4 seconds, with the SuperCrew version clocking a time of 4.1 seconds instead.
Helping get the most from the modified trucks were racing driver Robb Holland, Discovery Channel star and mechanic Aaron Kaufman, and Jack Roush Jr.
Using the 5.0 V-8 F-150 as a base, the Nitemare package uses a Roush supercharger and performance exhaust system to boost output to 650 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque.
Also included in the $19,150 conversion is a set of 22-inch wheels, lowered suspension, new front grille, plus Roush decals for the exterior.
Whether the F-150 Nitemare will hold onto its record is another question. Texas tuning firm Hennessey has created a 1,000 horsepower version of the Jeep Gladiator, which could fight for the crown.
In addition, Roush is also said to be working on a new performance package for the Ford F-150 Raptor. It means truck buyers certainly don’t need to worry about choosing between both speed and practicality in the near future.
The Rapid Exchange of Information (Rapex) is the European Union’s rapid alert system for unsafe consumer product, including cars.
In June, 16 car safety recalls were announced via Rapex, affecting 23 models of 15 brands.
Every month, we’ll provide a summary of the recalls from the previous month. These are the car safety recalls announced in June 2019, with thanks to Car-Recalls.eu.
Audi A4, A6 and A7 – tow bar
Audi A4, A6 and A7 models built between February 2018 and October 2018, and retro-fitted between March and November 2018, are being recalled for a faulty tow bar. The locking mechanism might be defective, causing the trailer to drop while the vehicle is in motion. The recall affects 135 A4s, A6s and A7s in the UK.
Bentley Continental GT – electronics
Bentley Continental GT models manufactured between 22 January 2018 and 6 March 2019 are the subject of a safety recall concerning the centre console switch pack. If the event of a fault, the hazard warning lights and windscreen defrost/demist functionality could fail, increasing the risk of an accident.
Cadillac ATS and CTS – steering
Cadillac ATS and CTS models built between 20 June 2016 and 11 May 2017 are being recalled due to a power steering defect. In some cases, the electric power steering could fail, increasing the risk of a crash.
Citroen Berlingo – brakes
Citroen Berlingo models manufactured between 7 November 2017 and 8 January 2019 are being recalled due to a possible misalignment of the ratchet on the handbrake lever mechanism. The handbrake might not engage, increasing the risk of an accident.
Ram pick-ups – steering
Ram models built between 31 October 2017 and 25 October 2018 are the subject of a safety recall concerning power steering. The ground connection on the battery may be loose, which could lead to over- and under-steering, potentially resulting in an accident.
Ford Ranger – brakes
Ford Ranger pick-ups built over a two-year period from 4 June 2016 to 28 August 2018 are being recalled for replacement front brake hoses. In some instances, the hoses could be ruptured, resulting in reduced braking efficiency.
Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette – steering
Defective power steering is the reason why Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette models built between 20 June 2016 and 11 May 2017 are being recalled.
Jaguar I-Pace – brakes
Jaguar I-Pace models manufactured between 23 August 2017 and 11 April 2019 are being recalled due to a potential failure of the regenerative braking system. The friction braking system may not engage, increasing the stopping distance of the electric car.
Jeep Compass – seats
Right-hand-drive Jeep Compass SUVs built between 25 August 2017 and 4 January 2018 are the subject of a recall concerning a defective rear seat-back mechanism. In the event of rapid deceleration, the seat back could fold forward unexpectedly, resulting in luggage entering the passenger compartment. Jeep will replace the left and right side rear seat-back release bezels in 342 UK-registered cars.
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT – electronics
Faulty side radar sensors in the Pre-Safe impulse side function are the reason Mercedes-Benz AMG GT models built between 6 August 2018 and 22 February 2019 are being recalled.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class – brakes
Another Mercedes-Benz safety recall, but this one is likely to affect more drivers. The quality of the welding of the brake pedal plate to the brake pedal lever is the reason why A-Class models produced from 5 November 2018 to 23 March 2019 are being recalled.
Opel/Vauxhall Insignia – brakes
A defective seal on the brake master cylinder means that some 2018 Opel/Vauxhall Insignia cars are being recalled. The safety recall affects 1.6-litre diesel models with a manual transmission.
Peugeot Rifter and Partner – brakes
Peugeot Rifter and Partner models manufactured between 8 November 2017 and 20 December 2018 are being recalled for a possible misalignment of the ratchet on the handbrake lever. Just 89 vehicles are affected in the UK, and Peugeot will replace the handbrake if necessary.
Suzuki Swift and Swift Sport – airbag
A hard close of the Suzuki Swift’s rear doors could result in the activation of the side and curtain airbags, which is why models manufactured between 2017 and 2019 are being recalled. Once recalled, Suzuki will update the airbag control module software. A total of 22,437 Swifts are affected in the UK.
Volkswagen Tiguan – tow bar
The Volkswagen Tiguan is affected by the same tow bar problem outlined in the Audi A4, A6 and A7 section. Tiguan models affected were built between February and December 2018. If necessary, Volkswagen will replace the tow bar swivelling module; the recall affects 454 UK Tiguans.
Volvo S90 and XC60 – seats
Volvo S90 and XC60 models manufactured in 2017 and 2018 are being recalled because of a possible missing screw connection on the front seat rails. In the event of a rear-end collision, the seat position may be impacted, reducing protection for occupants. According to the DVSA, the recall affects 71 S90 and 7,322 XC60 vehicles in the UK.
Ah, Wimbledon: two weeks of dodging the showers, eating seriously expensive strawberries and cream, Sue Barker making smalltalk when the covers on and the entire nation pinning its hopes on one Scottish British tennis player.
But enough of all that – show us the cars…
Jaguar Ace Pace
In readiness for Wimbledon 2019, Jaguar developed a new app for your phone that lets you measure how fast your tennis serve is. Winners get prizes, including the opportunity to compete at Wimbledon for real, along with tickets for matches. The Ace Pace app uses accelerometers, which means you have to swing your phone like a racket. That’d be an interesting call to your insurance company…
Andy Murray ‘goes electric’
In June 2018, Andy Murray delivered on his promise to ‘go electric’ by taking delivery of a Jaguar I-Pace. It no doubt serves to keep the tennis star’s conscience clear, and Jaguar’s PR team happy.
Jaguar XF Sportbrake
There’s no need to adjust your set, this Jaguar XF Sportbrake is indeed covered in a tennis ball camo wrap. It was part of a campaign culminating in the estate being unveiled by Andy Murray, before being sent on a nationwide tour with the Wimbledon trophy inside. “Letting go of the trophy will be difficult, but there’s no better vehicle than the Jaguar XF Sportbrake to take it on this UK tour,” said Murray (via the Jaguar press office).
Murray makes a mint
For 2016, Jaguar UK signed up Andy Murray as a brand ambassador to promote its #FeelWimbledon campaign, which involves a 360-degree virtual reality tour of Centre Court through the eyes of the British number one. Jaguar is also keen to point out that Murray owned an F-Type Coupe and had a new F-Pace on order.
Andy Murray smashes Jaguar F-Type SVR
Keen to maximise the return on its investment, Jaguar sent Andy Murray to Thruxton and asked him to serve at a target mounted to the back of a Jaguar F-Type SVR (here, he’s getting his eye in with an XE). The Jaguar just happened to be driven by John McEnroe and Murray served an ace as the car sped past at 130mph. This must have been as strange for Murray as it was for us to write.
Advantage, Jaguar
In 2015, Jaguar announced a five-year deal to become the official car partner to the All England Tennis Club for Wimbledon. As part of the agreement, Jaguar supplies 170 vehicles to the London venue throughout the two-week tournament. No wonder the traffic is so bad on the streets of Wimbledon.
Rolls-Royce and the Tennis Classic
Away from Wimbledon, the stars at this year’s Tennis Classic at Hurlingham will be chauffeured around in a selection of Rolls-Royce models. The likes of Marin Cilic, David Ferrer and Richard Gasquet will escape the showers courtesy of a Phantom and a Ghost. At least they’ll have access to an umbrella.
The MercedesCup
“The estate version of the new E-Class is all set to be served up at the MercedesCup tennis tournament in Stuttgart.” You serve up the tennis puns, Mercedes-Benz, we’ll volley them home.
Angelique Kerber nets a new Porsche 911
In 2015, Germany’s Angelique Kerber won the Porsche Grand Prix tennis tournament in Germany by beating Denmark’s Caroline Wozniacki in the final. Her prize included a Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS. Nice.
Andy Murray and his BMW i8
Meanwhile, over in Munich, Britain’s Andy Murray collected the keys to his new i8 electric supercar after winning the BMW Open tennis tournament. Looks like he’s struggling to get comfy. Probably a good idea if Murray doesn’t mention this car to Jaguar…
Lindsay Davenport and her Porsche 911
Of course, scooping a new car by winning a tennis tournament is nothing new. Here’s American tennis star, Lindsay Davenport and her Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS at the German Porsche Grand Prix tennis tournament in 2004.
Tommy Haas and his BMW Z4
Meanwhile, in 2003, Tommy Haas drove home in a brand new BMW Z4 after beating Philipp Kohlschreiber in the final of the BMW Open tennis tournament in Munich. We won a few tennis tournaments at school, but we were never given a car as a prize. That’s probably because the tournaments were sponsored by the local double-glazing firm and not an international car company. Pictured is a later “Winner” Z4.
Wimbledon and parking in 1923
But enough of these lavish prizes and on to something more civilised. Wimbledon is of course the oldest tennis tournament in the world. The first championships were held in 1870 and the Olympics arrived in Wimbledon in 1908. The tournament moved to Church Road in 1922 and No.1 Court opened in 1924. Here we see the tennis courts in 1923. You probably had to be someone very special to park this close to the court.
Cars from the current series of Top Gear are now on display at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu.
In a press release that describes Chris Harris as a ‘veteran’ – we’re sure @harrismonkey is chuffed with that – Beaulieu says that six cars have joined the World of Top Gear display.
So that’s the Triumph Spitfire, Subaru Brat and Nissan Leaf from the 24 Minutes of Le Mansfield, the Overtaker hearse, and the Austin Allegro and Matra Bagheera from the Borneo jungle.
The Allegro and Bagheera starred in the latest episode, with Freddie Flintoff and Paddy McGuinness tasked with buying rare but cheap classic cars. Upon their return to the UK, the cars were painted in rainbow colours, as a protest against Brunei’s stance on homosexuality.
Let the monkey see the nuts
The bright blue Overtaker started life as a Daimer hearse before McGuinness set about creating the ultimate secondhand family car. The Overtaker took part in a series of events before Flintoff unceremoniously rolled it during an off-road challenge.
When it comes to crashing Top Gear cars, Flintoff has form. During the 24 Minutes of Le Mansfield, the former cricketer and king of the jungle crashed his Subaru Brat ‘hybrid’ into a market stall.
‘Veteran’ Chris Harris drove an electric Triumph Spitfire, while McGuiness took to the streets in a modified Nissan Leaf.
Let the crown see the jewels
The World of Top Gear display has a number of former challenge vehicles, including the SsangYacht, Dampervan, Reliant Robin Space Shuttle and the indestructible Toyota Hilux.
Visitors to Beaulieu can view the Top Gear cars as part of their general admission ticket, with advance tickets costing £19.50 for adults and £9.50 for children. Under 5s go free. For more ticket information visit the Beaulieu website.
In 2017, we caught up with Chris Harris ahead of the relaunch of the World of Top Gear exhibition. You can watch the interview here:
More than 340,000 spectators and 125,000 vehicles are expected to converge on Silverstone for the F1 Grand Prix this weekend, creating a potential traffic disaster.
But Highways England has come up with what it calls a ‘winning formula’ to help ease congestion around the Northampton circuit.
A one-way system will be introduced on the A43 and extra traffic officers will be patrolling the roads over the three-day F1 weekend (Friday to Sunday), with the aim of reducing traffic and minimising delays.
More advice on Motoring Research
From 6am until around 1pm on Sunday, the A43 northbound will be one-way from the B4525 interchange to Silverstone. The A43 southbound will be closed to through traffic at Silverstone.
Later, from 2.30pm to around 8pm, the A43 southbound will be one-way from Silverstone to the B4525 interchange. Meanwhile, the A43 northbound will be one-way from Silverstone to the Abthorpe roundabout.
Keeping the traffic moving
Highways England’s emergency planning officer, Jamie Tomlin, said: “The British Grand Prix is the biggest date in the motor racing calendar so we have been working closely with Silverstone Race Circuit to try to ease traffic flow and get the tens of thousands of people to and from the event as smoothly and safely as possible.
“One of the key elements of the traffic management is operating a one-way system on the A43, which makes optimum use of the carriageways during peak times.
“We will have extra traffic officers and recovery resources on duty and patrolling the area to deal with any incidents as quickly as possible to keep the traffic moving.
“We would urge anyone attending the Grand Prix to leave plenty of time for their journeys and to follow the signs from the M1, M40 and on their car parking pass, rather than relying on sat navs.”
On-site parking for the weekend is now sold out, so Highways England is urging visitors to avoid the car parks unless they have pre-booked. Silverstone is advising F1 visitors to use the Megabus and Stagecoach services and warns motorists that they will be fined if they have not pre-purchased a car parking pass.
Around 90,000 vehices are expected to use public parking, with a further 21,000 taking advantage of the park and ride facility.
More information on the event, car parks, buses and timetable can be found on the Silverstone website.
Those attending the British Grand Prix on Saturday got an extra slice of on-track excitement, as the 
Using the British Grand Prix for the Valkyrie’s debut was no coincidence. Aston Martin has worked extensively with the 
Aston Martin test driver Chris Goodwin was responsible for driving the Valkyrie. Although not running at full speed, the debut was still important for Goodwin, who commented that driving it at Silverstone was “exceptionally special.”
Two versions of the Roush F-150 Nitemare were tested on a drag strip, both in four-wheel drive configuration and with Sport mode engaged. 
Using the 5.0 V-8 F-150 as a base, the Nitemare package uses a Roush supercharger and performance exhaust system to boost output to 650 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque. 
The Rapid Exchange of Information (Rapex) is the European Union’s rapid alert system for unsafe consumer product, including cars.
