Drive the new Alpine A290 hot hatch in Fortnite to win prizes

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July 16, 2024

Players of the Fortnite video game can now select a new Alpine A290 hot hatchback to save their virtual world.

The new Rift Racers experience lets players drive a digital version of the first fully electric Alpine. And they could win in-game prizes as a result.

It follows the UK dynamic debut of the Alpine A290 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The 220hp EV took to the famous hill climb course in front of thousands of spectators.

Virtual racing to win

Fortnite is available on numerous gaming platforms, including the Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox and smartphones. Free to download, more than 1.8 million players can be found online at any given time.

To access the Rift Racer experience, players can search for it from the Fortnite homepage. Alternatively, they can enter the code: 3949-8348-1021.

The Alpine Rift Racers experience tasks Fortnite fans with a mission to close a number of ‘rifts’ and save the universe. Multiple locations can be explored, with players travelling through them to collect materials and activate the ‘Alpine tower’.

Once players have completed the challenge, they can enter their times through a dedicated Alpine website, with the potential to win special prizes.

Amplifying the brand reach

Daniel Ritchie, director of sponsorship acquisition at Alpine, said: “The A290 in Rift Racers is a key moment for us as we expand within the digital and gaming world. We provide players across the globe a new way of experiencing the speed, agility, and electrical power of the A290.

“This in-game activation bridges the gap between road cars, motorsport and gaming, amplifying our brand’s reach and engaging a new generation of fans.”

For those wanting to experience the real Alpine A290, reservations for the electric hot hatchback can be placed now. Alpine expects to deliver the first completed cars in early 2025.

Is the Ariel Nomad 2 the most fun you can have on four wheels?

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John Redfern

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July 12, 2024

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Somerset-based Ariel Motor Company has announced an all-new version of its Nomad off-road buggy.

Embodying the extreme utilitarianism the company has become famous for, the new vehicle is simply named ‘Nomad 2’.

Only three parts have been carried over from its Nomad predecessor. Ariel has completely redesigned the lightweight machine, with a new engine and a stronger chassis.

Strong and light

Ariel has given the Nomad 2 an all-new tubular frame chassis, with larger diameter metalwork to boost torsional stiffness by more than 60 percent.

Getting in and out of the Nomad should be easier than before, thanks to a longer wheelbase and larger chassis opening. Integrated roll-over protection and a full safety cage come as standard.

The Nomad 2’s bodywork remains a minimalist affair. Toughened polythene panels help reduce kerb weight to just 715kg.

New K-Tech coil-over aluminium dampers and Eibach dual-rate springs are used for the suspension. Ariel has also improved the approach and departure angles, aiding the car’s off-road ability.

Turbocharged Ford power

Honda engines have been discontinued for the Nomad 2. Instead, Ariel has turned to the Ford 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, best known for powering the Focus ST. This provides up to 305hp and 382lb ft of torque with a switchable ECU.

Given the Nomad 2’s lightweight design, the 0-60mph sprint takes just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 134mph.

Air is fed to the Nomad 2’s intercooler through a snorkel-style air intake. This is located above the cockpit to ensure the cleanest supply of fresh air.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, with Ariel’s own six-speed sequential transmission as an option. There is also a hydraulic handbrake, featuring a huge WRC-style lever for maximum drift thrills.

Ready to order now

The no-nonsense approach continues inside the Nomad 2. A pair of lightweight bucket seats are compatible with racing harnesses.

There is also a full-colour digital dashboard display, incorporating shift lights and the potential for data logging.

Prices for the Nomad 2 start from £67,992, and customers can choose from more than 100 options for individual customisation.

Nomad 2 production will commence shortly at Ariel’s factory in Crewkerne, where it will be assembled alongside the Atom 4, Atom 4R, and Dash e-bike.

MG Cyberster becomes a coupe with new Cyber GTS concept

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John Redfern

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July 12, 2024

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MG has revealed an electric coupe at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, as the company kicks off celebrations for its 100th anniversary.

The MG Cyber GTS Concept was a genuine surprise for the Goodwood crowds. Jozef Kaban, vice president of MG’s Global Design Centre, introduced the car in person to the Duke of Richmond.

Depending on the feedback from enthusiasts, a production version of the Cyber GTS could be heading to MG showrooms in the not-too-distant future.

MG with production potential

Based on the two-seat Cyberster electric roadster, the Cyber GTS pays tribute to one of the MG’s most successful racing cars.

The MGC GTS Sebring claimed the marque’s best-ever finish at the 1968 Sebring 12 Hours race. Paddy Hopkirk and Andrew Hedges finished in third place in the prototype class, and 10th position overall.

Like the 1960s original, the Cyber GTS features a rear-wheel-drive layout. Using the same electric powertrain as the Cyberster would mean a minimum of 335hp for the coupe.

Although MG has not shown an interior yet, beneath the fixed roof of the Cyber GTS are four seats. Hopefully, MG will decide there is room in the automotive world for a two-door electric coupe that’s both stylish and relatively practical.

Celebrating 100 years of MG

MG is the celebrated marque at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, with both a Cyberster and a classic MGB displayed on the dramatic central feature.

The Festival of Speed began with the Duke of Richmond driving one of his grandfather’s MG C-Type race cars, which competed at the Brooklands Double 12 in 1931.

A new version of the MG HS SUV has also been launched at Goodwood, along with the EX181 electric land-speed record concept.

The search is on for a drive-thru fast food reviewer

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John Redfern

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July 12, 2024

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Think you could be the ultimate judge of the best drive-thru meals? If so, Auto Trader wants to hear from you.

The car sales website is on the hunt for an official ‘drive-thru reviewer’, who will be tasked with exploring local fast-food restaurants.

However, the reviews will need to focus on more than just which drive-thru outlet offers the tastiest food.

Auto Trader also wants to know which meal does the best job of preserving the interior of your car.

Car versus food

With the growing number of drivers choosing to lease their vehicles, ensuring a car’s interior remains in top condition is now an even higher priority.

Leasing companies thoroughly inspect cars when they are returned, and grease stains or lingering smells from fast food could result in charges for deep cleaning or even replacement parts.

In addition, the widespread use of touchscreens inside new cars has created a new challenge in avoiding endless fingerprints on the infotainment system.

Auto Trader’s drive-thru reviewer will be tasked with judging meals on everything from the quality of the package, through to how long the food smell lingers in the car’s cabin.

Gym membership not included

To become the new drive-thru reviewer, applicants need to complete a simple form setting out in 300 words why they would be the best judge of fast food.

A winner will then be chosen at random from all entrants, and receive £300 to cover the cost of fuel and food from five local drive-thru restaurants.

The chosen reviewer will have to report back with their judgement on their selected restaurants, and also provide photos to share on social media.

Aficionados of burgers and supersized drinks will have to move quickly, though. The competition closes at 23:59 on Sunday 14 July 2024.

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New Ford Capri prices to start from £42,075

By

Richard Aucock

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July 11, 2024

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The new Ford Capri is now open for orders in the UK. Ford expects deliveries to begin in late October 2024 for its electric SUV coupe.

For now, the entry-level Ford Capri is the Select RWD version, with a 77kWh Extended Range battery. Prices start from £48,075.

The new Ford Capri Select RWD 77kWh Extended Range has a 286hp electric motor that allows for 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds. It has a fully charged range of 389 miles.

The higher-spec new Ford Capri Premium 77kWh Extended Range uses the same motor and battery. However, its bigger 20-inch wheels reduce the range slightly, to 369 miles. It costs from £52,175.

The new Ford Capri is also available in twin-motor, all-wheel-drive guise, a setup restricted to top-spec Premium trim. It produces 340hp and hits 62mph in 5.3 seconds.

Opting for the Ford Capri Premium AWD 77kWh Extended Range will set you back £56,175. It offers a range of 346 miles.

A more affordable Capri with a smaller 52kWh battery, called Select 55, follows later in 2024. This will cost from £42,075.

Ford Capri models and equipment

There are only two trim levels offered on the Ford Capri, called Select and Premium. As standard, the Capri Select has 19-inch alloy wheels, an electric driver’s seat with massage functionality, partial Sensico trim and a seven-speaker sound system with an integrated sound bar.

The Ford Capri Premium has larger 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, 10-speaker premium B&O sound system, power tailgate and matrix LED headlamps.

Ford says an energy-saving heat pump is optional, as are 21-inch alloy wheels. There are six paint colours to choose from: Agate Black, Frozen White, Magnetic Grey, Vivid Yellow, Blue My Mind and Lucid Red.

Inside, all new Ford Capris have a 14-6-inch Sync Move touchscreen in the centre. This can slide back and forth so it’s easier to reach, and reveals a hidden stowage box behind. A wireless smartphone charger is standard, as are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The new Ford Capri measures 4,634mm long, 1,872mm wide and sits 1,626mm tall. It weighs from around 2.1 tonnes.

As you’d hope, this is a practical, family-sized car. The hatchback reveals a boot with a capacity of up to 572 litres, which extends to 1,510 litres with the rear seats folded.

The new Ford Capri also has a novel 17-litre ‘MegaConsole’ underneath the front seat armrest for in-cabin stowage. This consumer-friendly feature was inspired by the ‘MegaBox’ ultra-deep boot space inside the best-selling Ford Puma.

Horse power! Evoluto Ferrari 355 restomod debuts at Goodwood

By

John Redfern

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July 11, 2024

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Evoluto Automobili has unveiled a ‘reimagined’ version of the Ferrari F355 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The project aims to propel the iconic, V8-powered Ferrari firmly into the 21st century.

Produced between 1995 and 1999, the mid-engined F355 has a deserved reputation as one of Maranello’s most rewarding road cars.

The 355 by Evoluto aims to introduce modern engineering and technology to the Italian supercar, Crucially it will do so without diluting the analogue driving experience.

The result, seen here for the first time, gives restomod enthusiasts a Ferrari-flavoured alternative to what companies such as Singer Vehicle Design have done with the air-cooled Porsche 911.

Redlined raised to 8,500rpm

UK-based Evoluto Automobili has thoroughly reworked the F355’s naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V8 engine, fitting more than 200 new components. Output has increased to 420hp, with a higher redline of 8,500rpm. A redesigned titanium exhaust promises a suitably epic soundtrack.

To ensure maximum driver engagement, a six-speed, open-gate manual transmission is fitted as standard.

The updated engine is installed in a chassis rebuilt from the ground up, using extensive carbon fusing. This process achieves a 23 percent increase in torsional stiffness, with all chassis hard points fortified to minimise flex.

Evoluto has a target kerb weight of 1,230kg, which undercuts the efforts of Ferrari’s own engineers when the F355 was new.

Updating a classic

Reworking an icon like the F355 is not for the faint-hearted, so Evoluto turned to legendary British designer Ian Callum and his Callum Designs consultancy for the task.

A widened stance, reshaped splitter and deeper front cooling vents are part of the careful makeover. New wing mirrors are said to improve aerodynamic performance, while the door handles are now flush-fitting.

Importantly, Callum Designs has retained the F355’s retro pop-up headlights – now updated to LED units. Distinctive daytime running lights create a new visual signature, too.

A set of 19-inch forged alloy wheels wear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, with Brembo GT six-piston brakes fitted as standard. Customers can upgrade to carbon-ceramic brakes for even more stopping power.

Evoluto says the 355 will have ‘an ideal balance of speed and playfulness’, and can even indulge in some drift action.

A driver-focused cockpit

Evoluto 355 buyers can opt for extensive customisation, with bespoke paintwork to ensure each completed car is a one-of-a-kind creation.

On the inside, Callum Designs has reimagined the classic Ferrari cabin. Evoluto intends to offer a truly bespoke service here too, mixing ‘timeless design with modern luxury’.

Owners can choose from numerous leather and trim materials, all based around a ‘driver-centric cockpit’ that enhances the level of technology from the 1990s original. We rather like the wall-to-wall blue Alcantara pictured here…

Exclusivity guaranteed

Only 55 examples of the 355 by Evoluto are planned. However, the company says it has not quoted a price due to the unique nature of each vehicle to be produced.

Every car will be tailored to suit its new owner, with the design and build process said to include ‘a concierge-level customer journey’.

Following a private launch and preview event alongside the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the 355 by Evoluto will make its full public debut at Monterey Car Week in California next month.

Unique Caterham Seven uses parts from an RAF helicopter

By

John Redfern

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July 9, 2024

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Caterham has revealed a one-off example of the Seven 360R, built using parts from an RAF helicopter.

As part of a project to raise money for injured servicemen and women, components from a Puma HC2 helicopter have been repurposed for use in the Caterham sports car.

Following its debut at the British Grand Prix, the special Seven 360R will appear at various events throughout the summer before being auctioned.

From chopper to roadster

Puma XW232 first entered service in 1972, and was deployed for operations in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Iraq – the latter during both Gulf conflicts.

Now at the end of its working life, XW232 contributed various components to the Seven 360R. Building it was a joint effort between Caterham engineers and serving personnel from RAF Benson, where the Puma was based.

Aluminium skin from the doors and tail rotor of the helicopter is used to form the Seven’s bodywork. This includes the internal rear bulkhead, which still features the helicopter’s door release handle.

NATO Green paint is kept for the bodywork, with a Desert Sand hue used on the car’s chassis.

All for a good cause

On the inside, the helicopter’s quilted soundproofing lines the door panels and transmission tunnel. The Puma’s evacuation instructions are still stitched into the material.

A unique satin black dashboard features military grade switches, including a three-stage ignition process for extra theatre. A navigation clock forms a centrepiece on the dash panel, too.

Caterham plans to display the special Seven at selected events over the coming months, then auction it through the Collecting Cars online platform.

Bidding will be open from 15 August to 12 September 2024, with the funds raised going to Mission Motorsport and the RAF Benevolent fund.

New Gridserve app to save EV owners 20% this summer

By

Richard Aucock

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July 9, 2024

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Electric car charging giant Gridserve has launched a new app – and, to mark its launch, it is offering EV drivers 20% off charging throughout summer 2024.

The new Gridserve smartphone app is available through the Apple App Store or Google Play. It helps users find, pay and monitor EV charging sessions.

Until 1 October 2024, anyone paying for EV charging through the new app will automatically receive the 20% saving.

Gridserve says it can be used at more than 190 locations, including its Electric Forecourts, motorway Electric Super Hubs, and Electric Retail Hubs at locations such as Dobbies garden centres.

Rebecca Trebble, Gridserve’s chief customer experience officer, said 200,000 charging sessions are recorded on the Gridserve network every month and “the new app will make those charging sessions even easier.

“We have listened to our users and made it easier to receive receipts too.” Following the end of a charging session, receipts are automatically emailed to users, along with a charging summary.

Up to 12 previous charging sessions can also be stored on a user’s account.

Gridserve adds it is stepping up its roll-out of high power chargers across the UK, with more than 160 of its 190-plus sites now having ultra-fast chargers.

The electric car charging network boasts more than 1,400 charging bays across the country.

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Sainsbury’s Smart Charge now allows EV drivers to collect Nectar points

By

Richard Aucock

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July 9, 2024

0

Sainsbury’s electric car rapid charging service Smart Charge has become the first EV charging network in the UK to offer a loyalty scheme.

Smart Charge customers with Nectar accounts will be able to collect points, at a rate of 1 Nectar point for every £1 spent on EV charging.

Nectar is the largest multi-partner loyalty scheme in the UK, allowing customers to spend points at Sainsbury’s, Argos, British Airways and others.

Sainsbury’s Smart Charge launched in January 2024. It is an ultra-rapid EV charging network with more than 400 charging bays and counting.

It doesn’t require a subscription or an app, and offers contactless payment.

Notably, Smart Charge is the only fully owned and managed EV charging business from a UK supermarket.

The food retailer now has 50 Smart Charge EV charging locations, with the latest to open being a 12-bay site at Sainsbury’s London Enfield superstore, just off the A10.

Sainsbury’s director of property, procurement and EV ventures, Patrick Dunne, said becoming the first EV charging provider to offer a loyalty scheme was a huge milestone. “Customers using any of our 400 Smart Charge bays across the country will now be able to benefit from collecting Nectar points.

“With bays in more locations than ever before, it has never been easier for EV drivers to access ultra-rapid facilities – and now they can reap the benefit of Nectar points too.”

How to collect Nectar points at Sainsbury’s Smart Charge EV chargers

Because it doesn’t require an app, collecting Nectar points at Smart Charge EV chargers is a more manual affair.

Once owners have tapped to pay via contactless payment, and plugged in their car, a ‘follow on mobile’ QR code appears on the charger screen.

Once scanned, an ‘add Nectar card number’ button will appear, followed by an ‘enter your Nectar card number’ window.

EV owners then type in their Nectar card number – which is a bit of a long-winded affair, but will see the points added.

Smart Charge has a top tip to save time here, too: if you have the Nectar app, tap the card icon and you’ll be able to copy and paste your number.

We’re sure the process will become easier with time – perhaps with a Smart Charge app, or integration into the Nectar app?

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TV star George Clarke to tackle Goodwood hill in classic Ford Transit

By

John Redfern

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July 8, 2024

0

Architect and TV presenter George Clarke will be driving a classic van at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed this week.

Best known for hosting Amazing Spaces, a show about the creative use of small and unusual living spaces, Clarke will get behind the wheel of the eBay Lounge: a specially converted 1975 Ford Transit Mk1.

Clarke’s hillclimb attempt will be part of a major presence for eBay at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex.

Interactive competitions and talks by automotive experts will also feature on its award-winning show stand.

McLaren F1 to Ford Transit

The Ford Transit might not seem the most obvious vehicle for the famous Goodwood hillclimb course, but this particular van does boast a motorsport connection.

Peter Stevens, responsible for shaping vehicles such as the McLaren F1, Subaru Impreza WRC and Jaguar XJR-15, also helped to design the eBay Lounge.

Previously used by the German fire service, it has since been restored and updated to be a multi-purpose, camper-style van and event support vehicle.

Period-correct parts were used to refresh the running gear, suspension and brakes of the classic Transit. Naturally, all parts were sourced through the eBay marketplace, before the interior underwent an extensive makeover.

Seeking the best van conversions

The Transit has been restored to promote eBay’s Van Conversion of the Year Awards. Following on from last year’s event, the competition will search for everything from the best trade transformation to the coolest camper conversion.

George Clarke and Peter Stevens will both be part of the judging panel for the Van Conversion of the Year Awards.

Entries for the competition are open now and run until 11 August 2024. The winner will receive a £10,000 cash prize, with individual category winners claiming a £250 eBay voucher.

The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place between Thursday 11 and Sunday 14 July. You can see George Clarke driving up the hill on the opening day.