Roadside recovery services can now use red flashing lights

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September 20, 2024

An “important milestone” for road safety means recovery operators and breakdown assistance drivers are now able to use flashing red lights on their vehicles.

It follows more than five years of discussion and research – including a parliamentary debate in 2019, which was led by then-Conservative MP, Tracey Crouch.

The death of roadside recovery driver Steve Goldbold on the M25 in 2017 was the catalyst for action, with a campaign led by Steve’s partner, Sam Cockerill.

It is hoped the ability to use flashing red lights will help safeguard the almost 500,000 people who work in the roadside recovery and breakdown industry.

Applications now open

Safety alliance PROSE (the Professional Recovery Operators Safety Executive) has confirmed that operators can now submit requests for permission to use red flashing lights.

Recovery operators will need to obtain a Vehicle Special Order (VSO) through a form submitted to the Vehicle Certification Agency.

A VSO will allow operators to fit up to four flashing red lights to the rear of their breakdown vehicles. These lights can only be used when a recovery vehicle is stationary, and only where a ‘dynamic risk assessment’ identifies them as being necessary.

Recovery drivers will have to undergo training before being able to use red flashing lights to comply with the VSO.

A life-saving decision

Applying for a VSO is intended to be a temporary measure, as the Department for Transport aims to amend regulations specifically to allow the use of red lights.

These changes are not expected to occur until 2025, but the VSO process should protect recovery operators in the interim period.

Following the news, Dom Shorrocks, chief operations officer at the RAC, commented: “This is an important milestone in the improvement of safety for the roadside assistance industry.

“We’ve long been calling for roadside assistance workers and recovery drivers, including our own, to be allowed to use red flashing lights alongside the customary amber ones to alert motorists to their presence. In fact, we again raised the issue with the Secretary of State in the summer, urging him to take action.

“This announcement is therefore very good news for our industry and for the drivers we serve as it will unequivocally improve the visibility of roadside workers and help save lives.”

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New Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro brings F1 styling to the street

By

John Redfern

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September 19, 2024

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The second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT might be fresh out of the box, but already there is an F1-themed special edition.

Named the (deep breath) Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro Motorsport Collectors Edition, the new model takes direct inspiration from the German marque’s Formula One team.

A public debut at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix reinforces the intended audience for this limited-production supercar.

Mercedes says the Motorsport Collectors Edition is aimed directly at ‘car enthusiasts and collectors who are looking for a particularly sporty driving experience’.

Star-spangled AMG

AMG has left the mechanical side of the GT 63 Pro untouched. Its twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 generates 612hp and 627lb ft of torque.

The base Obsidian Black paint colour is directly inspired by the Mercedes‑AMG Petronas F1 race car, complete with hand-painted silver stars covering the rear quarter panels.

Bright Petronas green highlights are found on the front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser and window surrounds. The 21-inch forged wheels feature the same colour, as do the brake calipers.

Carbon fibre is used for the front splitter and rear diffuser, along with the large fixed rear spoiler.

F1 looks for the road

On the inside, AMG Performance seats are trimmed in a combination of black leather and Alcantara, with Petronas green stitching. The steering wheel uses the same combination of materials, also with green stitching.

More Petronas green appears on the door panels, instrument binnacle and centre console. And just in case you require another reminder, opening the doors reveals AMG sill trims with Petronas-coloured illumination.

A Burmester audio system with 15 speakers is standard, along with a 360-degree camera and a front axle lift kit.

As a finishing touch, each AMG GT Motorsport Special Edition model comes with a ‘1 out of 200’ badge fitted on the centre console.

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A £772 repair bill would make most drivers replace their current car

By

John Redfern

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September 19, 2024

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New research reveals that an unexpected repair bill of less than £800 would lead most British drivers to replace their current car.

A survey of 1,000 UK motorists by CarGurus found that needing to spend £772 on car maintenance is one of three ‘breaking points’ that prompt drivers to look for a new vehicle.

Nearly three quarters (72 percent) of those surveyed said they felt stressed by the thought of having to spend money on unplanned car repairs.

Reaching a breaking point

The survey uncovered that a requirement to spend £772 on car maintenance over a 12-month period would lead most drivers to begin searching for a new vehicle.

In addition, having to wait more than 10 days for a repair to be completed, or having a car with three or more faults, could also see drivers reach a breaking point.

With motorists seemingly quick to jump to a replacement vehicle, respondents noted they would be willing to spend an average of £14,320 on a new car.

This represents a £13,547 difference compared to the theoretical £772 maintenance bill, or an increase in expenditure of 1,752 percent.

Low tolerance for maintenance issues

Respondents said they spent an average of £427 annually on planned car maintenance, including servicing and MOT costs. Yet, 50 percent of those questioned said they had to spend an additional £269 each year on unplanned repair costs.

Needing to spend money on car maintenance is clearly a worry for those surveyed. Forty percent of respondents said they were currently putting off car repairs due to the cost, leaving dashboard warning lights illuminated and worn tyres in place.

Chris Knapman, editorial director at CarGurus UK, said: “There is always the potential for the occasional unexpected car expense, yet as drivers are holding onto their cars for longer, our study shows that the tolerance of unforeseen issues is very low.

“For those who have reached breaking point, upgrading to a car with a long manufacturer-backed warranty can make a lot of sense, and is perfectly possible within the average budget of £14,320 that owners are willing to spend.”

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Wagons roll! BMW M5 Touring gets the M Performance treatment

By

John Redfern

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September 18, 2024

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The BMW M5 Touring has only just returned to the German marque’s range, but already there are opportunities to modify it.

For those who find the 727hp estate car a touch too subtle, BMW has introduced a host of M Performance exterior styling parts.

Customers will also be offered various interior accessories to further personalise their M5 Touring – and add to its £113,000 asking price.

Clothed in carbon fibre

As for the M5 saloon, BMW M Performance parts are mostly made from carbon fibre. They include a deeper two-piece chin spoiler, said to showcase the ‘central air intake to even more eye-catching effect’. Watch out for speed humps!

More carbon fibre is found on the M Performance sill extensions, and can be combined with matt black side decals. The latter make an even bolder statement when combined with a dramatic colour like the orange on BMW’s demonstrator, seen here.

The muscular flared wheelarches at the rear of the M5 Touring already provide plenty of visual drama. However, for even more menace, a two-piece carbon fibre diffuser can be fitted.

Framed within the diffusers are M Performance exhaust tailpipes, finished in a combination of carbon fibre and titanium. A subtle M5 logo is visible on the exhaust trims.

The track day-ready estate

There is no shortage of locations on the BMW M5 Touring that can be clad in carbon fibre, such as the M Performance fuel filler cap made from the lightweight material.

An M Performance key case uses a mix of carbon fibre and Alcantara. And you can have a set of M Performance floor mats, with leather-look edging in BMW M colours.

To make use of the M5 Touring’s combined load carrying ability and track day potential, BMW will even sell you a set of M Performance tyre bags.

UK prices for the M Performance parts have yet to be confirmed. However, M5 Touring customers will be able to specify them when placing an order.

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Lotus Theory 1 concept signposts future of electric sports cars

By

John Redfern

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September 17, 2024

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The wraps are off a radical new electric concept car from Lotus, designed to showcase the ‘future of intelligent performance vehicles’.

The Lotus Theory 1 demonstrates the British company’s new design manifesto – and reveals new technological innovations.

From robotic textiles and haptic feedback on the inside, to recycled materials for its exterior, the Theory 1 feels a world away from traditional notions of a Lotus sports car.

However, Lotus has made it clear the Theory 1 will put the driver at the heart of the experience, this time with 1,000hp of electric power at their disposal.

Creating a new Lotus DNA

Lotus set itself the goal of using only 10 main materials in the construction of the Theory 1 (compared to approximately 100 in most road cars). The vehicle’s body is made from recycled chopped carbon fibre and cellulose-based glass fibre, along with recycled glass.

The big benefit of these materials is to save weight. Even with a 70kWh battery pack and all-wheel drive, Lotus quotes a kerb weight of less than 1,600kg for the Theory 1.

Although clearly not a featherweight in terms of Lotus history, this makes the Theory 1 much lighter than many EVs.

It also translates into serious performance, with 0-62mph in less than 2.5 seconds and a potential top speed of nearly 200mph.

‘Lotuswear’ connects driver with the car

A new Lotus design manifesto will incorporate ‘DNA’ into its forthcoming cars. Standing for ‘Digital, Natural and Analogue’, these guiding principles are intended to keep the driver fully involved in the experience.

Inside the Theory 1, a ‘Lotuswear’ system can communicate directly with the occupants. Pods on the seats inflate automatically when more lateral support is needed, while the steering wheel can give haptic prompts when the driver should start turning.

Lightweight robotic textiles, developed in collaboration with MotorSkins, are used for the first time in an automotive setting.

Lotuswear also extends to the 3D-printed lattice-style headrests, which reduce weight while ensuring comfort and safety. A KEF binaural audio system is integrated into the headrests, too.

Design innovation inside and out

Further innovations in the Theory 1 include LEDs mounted on the front suspension modules, which can be seen from the interior. These illuminate red or green, alerting the driver to the need for braking or acceleration.

Laser lights on the dashboard also work with the inflatable seat bolsters to indicate left or right corners.

Active and passive aerodynamics are incorporated into the car’s bodywork, along with a contoured underbody and motorsport-style sidepods to guide airflow effectively.

As a technological tribute to the legendary Lotus 49 Formula One car, the motor and battery act as stressed members, reducing weight and complexity. The Theory 1’s rear spoiler also mounts directly onto its electric motor.

An immersive driving experience

Ben Payne, vice president of design at Lotus Group, said: “With Theory 1, we’ve built on everything Lotus has achieved so far in its 76-year history, to push the boundaries for what it means to drive a performance vehicle. We wanted to demonstrate that you don’t need to compromise – with both digital and analogue capabilities working harmoniously in the future car.

“In doing this, we are able to set a new benchmark for raw emotion, functionality and connection, bringing drivers the best possible immersive driving experience.”

Despite its long history, Lotus has created relatively few concept cars. It makes the unveiling of the Theory 1 even more interesting, particularly as the brand pivots towards total electrification.

Sadly, the Theory 1 is not destined for production, but many of the innovations seen here will filter into future Lotus models over the coming years.

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New Volkswagen Transporter van is diesel, hybrid or fully electric

By

John Redfern

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September 16, 2024

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The new seventh-generation Volkswagen Transporter van has been unveiled at the IAA Transportation Show in Hannover, Germany.

It represents the first time the long-serving Transporter van will be offered with an electric powertrain, and the first time it has shared a platform with another vehicle in its 75-year history.

A collaboration with Ford means the new Transporter T7 uses the same underpinnings – along with some body and interior parts – as the latest Ford Transit Custom.

It continues the partnership between the two car companies, which recently led to the retro-inspired electric Ford Capri on Volkswagen’s MEB platform.

More space and up to nine seats

The new Volkswagen Transporter is notably larger than its predecessor, translating into more space inside. Offered in two wheelbases, compared to the old T6 van, the standard-length version boasts a 10 percent increase in cargo capacity – now 5.8 cubic metres.

In high-roof, long-wheelbase form, the new Transporter T7 panel van can carry 9.0 cubic metres of cargo.

There are multiple seating and layout options available, including a nine-seater Caravelle minibus specification.

Volkswagen says the new Transporter T7 completes its iconic ‘Bulli’ range, being sold alongside the electric ID.Buzz and the Multivan.

Seven powertrain options, including electric

Transporter T7 customers can choose from seven different powertrain options, ensuring almost every base is covered.

Diesel remains very much on the menu, with three versions of the 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder engine offered. Power outputs of 110hp, 150hp and 170hp are available. The latter is equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard.

Plug-in hybrid drive comes from a Ford-supplied eHybrid setup, with a considerable combined output of 232hp.

The all-electric e-Transporter and e-Caravelle models come with a 64kWh battery, plus the choice of 136hp, 218hp and 286hp power outputs.

A mobile modern workplace

For those who need extra traction, Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive-system can be specified with the 150hp and 170hp diesel engines. Both the Transporter van and Caravelle come with the popular option of off-road-ready PanAmericana trim, too.

On the inside, the new Transporter follows the Volkswagen approach of ditching the majority of physical buttons for touchscreen controls. A 13-inch central infotainment display is combined with a digital instrument panel.

LED headlights, keyless entry, multiple USB charging sockets and cruise control will be included as standard equipment on all versions.

UK pricing and full specifications for the new Transporter T7 will be announced closer to when first deliveries begin in 2025.

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Lando Norris laps Silverstone in a McLaren P1 made of LEGO

By

John Redfern

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September 13, 2024

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A collaboration between McLaren Automotive and Lego has created a life-size, driveable version of the McLaren P1 hypercar, assembled from Lego Technic pieces.

Setting it apart from previous Lego projects, the P1 was driven by F1 World Championship contender Lando Norris around a lap of the Silverstone circuit.

This marks the first time a Lego scale build has been driven around a race track, and the first time a Formula One driver has been behind the wheel.

A life-size Lego McLaren

Designing and building the life-size Lego McLaren P1 involved 23 specialists from different teams. Staff from both companies worked on the project, which required a total of 8,344 hours from start to finish.

The end result was an accurate scale replica of the McLaren P1, constructed from 342,817 Lego Technic pieces. Some 393 different Lego parts were used, including 11 developed especially for this car.

Measuring 4,980mm in length and 2,101mm in width, this is clearly not your average Lego model. A kerb weight of 1,220kg also means the Technic P1 is only 270kg lighter than the original McLaren version.

McLaren P1 goes electric

The Lego Technic P1 does without the 916hp twin-turbocharged hybrid V8 found in the road car, relying instead on electric propulsion.

Lego has used eight electric motor packs, with each pack housing 96 individual Lego Function Motors. It makes for a combined total of 768 Lego electric motors, which are powered by Technic Function batteries and a 12-volt car battery.

Such complexity means the full-size Lego Technic McLaren can travel further than any Lego model before it – and was capable of completing the 3.66-mile Silverstone circuit with Norris driving.

An automotive icon

Ben Gulliver, test and development director at McLaren Automotive, said: “Having worked on the original P1 programme for McLaren, it’s amazing to see so many of the elements from the original car brought to life so realistically by the Lego Technic team for the full-scale model.

“The P1 was an icon of its time. I hope that through this collaboration with the Lego Group, we are able to inspire the next generation of designers and engineers to push the boundaries of automotive innovation.”

Although the life-size Lego Technic McLaren P1 is strictly a one-off, fans can purchase the (slightly smaller) 1:8-scale version launched earlier this year. With a mere 3,893 parts, the Lego Technic model – priced at £389.99 – should take less time to build, too.

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What is the margin of error for speed cameras in the UK?

By

Motoring Research team

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September 12, 2024

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Speed limits exist for a reason, and you should adhere to them as carefully as possible. However, we have all edged a few miles per hour over the limit at times – occasionally followed by a heart-stopping moment when you spot a roadside speed camera.

All speed cameras have a margin of error that allows for small excesses of speed. However, this threshold varies depending on the speed limit itself.

So what are the facts about cameras and speed limits in the UK? Read on for a simple explanation.

Speed camera tolerances

Auto Express magazine did some digging on this issue, procuring figures from many of the UK’s police forces via Freedom Of Information (FOI) requests.

Nearly all the police forces that responded quoted a threshold of ’10 percent plus 2mph’. That applies for both the ‘Gatso’ and ‘Truvelo’ style cameras, along with average speed check zones using multiple cameras at regular intervals.

Doing the maths, that means ‘accepted’ speeds (i.e. without a ticket being issued) could be as high as:

79mph in a 70mph limit
68mph in a 60mph limit
57mph in a 50mph limit
46mph in a 40mph limit
35mph in a 30mph limit

Note the quote marks around ‘accepted’, though. This threshold is optional for police forces and certainly shouldn’t be treated as a speed to aim for.

Interestingly, two forces who responded reported a ’10 percent plus 3mph’ threshold: Lancashire and the London Metropolitan Police. So you could add another mile per hour to each of the numbers above.

According to Auto Express, the reason for this higher tolerance in London is due to the higher traffic volume. In Lancashire, it’s just to allow a little more wiggle-room.

Why do cameras have a margin of error?

Different car speedometers display speeds to varying levels of accuracy. Some will show you’re doing 60mph when you’re actually travelling at 57mph, for example.

Construction and use regulations for cars specify that the speedo can over-read by 10 percent, but under-read by zero percent

The threshold is there, effectively, so that drivers have no excuse if caught. If you are flashed by a camera, it’s more likely you are deliberately breaking the limit than drifting just beyond it. It serves the interests of fairness and reduces workload for the justice system.

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Hennessey Venom F5-M is the world’s most powerful manual car

By

John Redfern

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September 11, 2024

0

Texas-based Hennessey Special Vehicles has revealed the world’s most powerful production car with a manual gearbox.

Determined to combat the declining number of manual transmissions in the sports car world, Hennessey has added a clutch pedal to its 250mph+ Venom F5 hypercar.

Only 12 examples of the Venom F5-M (‘M’ for manual) Roadster will be made, with all the cars already sold in advance.

Sticking with it

The ‘regular’ Hennessey Venom F5 makes use of a seven-speed automated manual transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. And converting the F5 to a six-speed manual gearbox has been no easy task.

A team of Hennessey engineers, led by Brian Jones, has worked to remap the 1,817hp 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged ‘Fury’ V8 to work with the three-pedal setup.

This included matching the engine to new gear ratios, ensuring the Venom F5-M could cope with the ‘scientific realities of manually transferring’ all its power to the rear wheels.

John Hennessey, company founder and CEO, commented: “We believe the Venom F5-M Roadster will be the most intense, immersive and extreme driving experience on the planet, and a dozen lucky customers get to join us for the ride.”

More than just three pedals

A host of design changes are part of the Venom F5-M Roadster package, including a new bespoke livery. Exposed carbon fibre trim is paired with contrasting accent stripes, which extend rearwards to a dorsal fin spoiler.

The F5-M’s six-speed open gate is crafted from solid billet aluminium, while the gear lever itself combines carbon fibre and aluminium. Making space for the manual gearbox also required new air vents, along with fighter jet-inspired window switches.

Buying a Venom F5-M Roadster will cost $2.65 million (around £2 million), and each car will be painted in a unique, one-off colour. Once a certain hue has been used, Hennessey deletes it from the Venom F5 configurator, ensuring exclusivity for owners.

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New Bentley Flying Spur Speed debuts with 782hp hybrid V8

By

John Redfern

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September 11, 2024

0

Bentley has revealed its new, fourth-generation Flying Spur saloon, described as nothing less than a ‘four-door supercar’.

Launched in high-performance Speed specification, the 2024 Flying Spur certainly has the vital statistics to back up Bentley’s bold claim.

Indeed, the new Flying Spur becomes the most powerful saloon in Bentley’s 105-year history, with a total of 782hp.

Sharing a plug-in hybrid powertrain with the latest Continental GT also means the new Flying Spur Speed can drive silently on electric power alone.

A four-door Bentley supercar

Powering the Flying Spur Speed is a 600hp twin-turbocharged V8, bolstered by a 190hp electric motor. Their combined efforts reach the wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, resulting in 782hp and 738lb ft of torque.

This makes for a 147hp increase versus the old W12-powered Flying Spur: good for 0-62mph in just 3.5 seconds.

The Flying Spur Speed’s 25.9kWh battery allows it to run in pure electric mode for up to 47 miles, reaching speeds of 87mph. It also means CO2 emissions of just 33g/km in the official WLTP test.

With its batteries fully charged and fuel tank brimmed, the Flying Spur Speed can potentially cover up 515 miles. Perfect for a luxurious, trans-continental adventure…

The sound of progress

Bentley’s Performance Active Chassis comes as standard on the Speed, featuring twin-valve suspension dampers to boost comfort and tighten body control when required. All-wheel steering and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential are included, too.

Although the new Flying Spur shares a platform with its predecessor, Bentley has given it a fresh look. The Speed gains a bespoke front grille and rear diffuser, with the option of exposed carbon fibre trim.

Interior changes include redesigned seats with 3D diamond quilting, along with a new ‘Dark Chrome’ specification for the metal detailing.

Audiophiles can choose from three different sound systems, starting with a 10-speaker 650w setup. A 1,500w 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles is next on the list, aimed at ‘lifestyle-oriented customers’.

A Naim 2,200w, 19-speaker audio system with ‘Active Bass Transducers’ built into the front seats is the ultimate audio option.

This time it’s personal

Personalisation will play an important part in Flying Spur ownership, with customers offered a standard range of 101 paint colours. However, this can be expanded almost infinitely thanks to bespoke paint matching.

Interior leather colour combinations run to more than 700 choices, plus there are eight varieties of wood veneer.

The Bentley configurator is now live, so customers can plan their perfect Flying Spur – with tens of billions of possible outcomes.

Prices have not been confirmed yet, but delivery of the first completed cars is expected by the end of this year.

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