3 in 4 people killed on UK roads are male

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June 4, 2024

There was a four percent decline in the number of deaths recorded on UK roads last year compared with 2022. That’s according to the latest data published by the Department for Transport (DfT).

In 2023, 1,645 people were killed on Britain’s roads, while there were 132,063 casualties of all types: a decline of three percent compared with figures for 2022.

Shockingly, the government report also reveals that 75 percent of fatalities, and 61 percent of those hurt in road accidents, were male.

More miles, fewer fatalities

Comparing data from a decade ago, at first glance it appears the number of people killed on UK roads has changed little: a four percent decrease. However, vehicles travelled further in 2023 than in 2013. The DfT says that motorists travelled a total of 334 billion miles, up eight percent.

The biggest difference is the number of people slightly injured on British roads. This total was 102,420 in 2023 – a 32 percent decrease compared with 2013.

Compared with 2022 figures, the number of motorcyclists killed on UK roads fell by 12 percent – the largest decline across all road user categories – while car occupant fatalities declined by five percent. Pedal cyclist fatalities were also down seven percent, but pedestrian deaths rose by six percent.

‘A red flag to the government’

The RAC says the new DfT statistics should remind the next government about the importance of improving road safety.

“The larger proportion of pedestrian fatalities, which is now at its highest since before the pandemic, should be a red flag to the government, signifying just how dangerous our roads still are,” said Simon Williams, head of roads policy at the RAC.

“Any number of deaths on the road is too many, so we strongly encourage the new government not to take these figures lightly and to make road safety a priority. We continue to believe the government should reinstate road casualty reduction targets.”

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Top Gear’s Toyota Aygo football car spotted for sale on eBay

By

Daniel Puddicombe

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June 3, 2024

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How about this for a small piece of Top Gear TV history? Recently sold on eBay, the Toyota Aygo was used in the BBC show’s five-a-side ‘car football’ matches.

Still sporting its blue and white livery, the 2005 Aygo was part of the winning team in the first televised football match. It then returned to play a game against a team of Volkswagen Foxes a year later. The car was subsequently used in Top Gear Live shows, too.

Look closely and you’ll see the car has no windows or passenger seats, and is reinforced with a substantial roll cage. This is because it was a back-up vehicle when rival TV show Fifth Gear sought to complete a loop-the-loop stunt in an Aygo.

A few football injuries

‘The fuel tank was removed, probably when Fifth Gear had it,’ stated the advert on eBay. The car also lacked a valid MOT, plus its owner didn’t have any documents, although he did possess a spare key.

Whether or not it can even be registered for the road use is another matter. Suffice to say it won’t be the most suitable supermini for an occasional dash to the shops.

As you would expect for a car that has spent its life playing football, the ad stated: ‘there is some body damage’. On the plus side, the Aygo has a very low mileage.

Sold to the highest bidder

The little Toyota has genuine on-screen pedigree, then. But it is also a near-20-year-old dented city car, which has spent its working life being thrashed, lacks a fuel tank and may not be road-legal.

“I genuinely have no idea how much this car is worth,” said the seller. Turns out the answer was £1,818 – the final price achieved after 27 bids when the eBay auction ended on Sunday night.

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Nurburgring King: 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport revealed

By

John Redfern

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June 3, 2024

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Volkswagen chose this weekend’s Nurburgring 24 Hours race to launch the fastest, most focused version of the current Golf GTI.

The new Mk8 Golf GTI Clubsport is designed to perform on both the road and track, with the infamous Nurburgring circuit being its ultimate test venue.

With more power than the recently updated standard Golf GTI, the Clubsport also boasts an array of bespoke enhancements to take on the ‘Green Hell’.

Although much is carried over from the previous Mk8 Golf GTI Clubsport, these detailed tweaks show Volkswagen is keen to develop its hardcore hot hatchback.

Optional Race package

Volkswagen has retained the familiar 300hp ‘EA888’ 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, as found in the outgoing GTI Clubsport

This makes for a 35hp increase compared to the latest Golf GTI, but is 10hp down on the limited-edition Golf GTI Clubsport S.

All of this is still channelled through the front wheels, ensuring the GTI doesn’t overlap with the 4WD Golf R. However, VW fits an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, which has more aggressive tuning for the Clubsport.

With a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, the GTI Clubsport can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds. A top speed of 155mph is standard, with 166mph possible if you choose the optional Race Package. The latter also includes an Akrapovic sports exhaust.

King of the Nurburgring

The new Golf GTI Clubsport comes with unique styling, including an aggressive front bumper design and a larger rear spoiler. Like previous GTI Clubsport models, the spoiler generates genuine downforce at speed.

Volkswagen fits the GTI Clubsport with a set of 18-inch ‘Richmond’ alloy wheels, but newly developed 19-inch forged ‘Warmenau’ wheels are on the options list. These tip the scales at just 8kg each, helping to reduce unsprung weight and improve the car’s handling.

As part of the mid-life facelift for the Mk8 Golf range, the GTI Clubsport receives a revised interior with a 12.9-inch touchscreen. This allows drivers to select a ‘Special’ driving mode, which tailors the car to perform at the fearsome Nurburgring Nordschleife.

Grippy ‘ArtVelours’ upholstery covers the sports seats inside the GTI Clubsport, with carbon fibre trim also available.

From Chiron to Golf GTI

Volkswagen employed Sven Bohnhorst to assist with developing the new Golf GTI Clubsport. Bohnhorst was previously a senior test engineer with Bugatti, and was responsible for the working on the Chiron Pur Sport.

To mark the launch of the latest Clubsport, Volkswagen entered an array of Golfs in the Nurburgring 24 Hours race. These included a version of the new Clubsport with a 348hp engine.

Although poor weather meant only nine hours of running in the N24, the Max Kruse Racing-entered Golf GTI Clubsport 24h finished first in its class.

Volkswagen has not yet announced prices or delivery dates for the GTI Clubsport. Expect a substantial premium over a regular Golf GTI when it does reach showrooms, however.

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Confirmed: UK company car drivers choosing ever-bigger alloy wheels

By

John Redfern

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May 31, 2024

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Forget the idea of company car drivers being stuck with uninspiring-looking motors, as new research suggests big alloy wheels are growing in fashion.

Data supplied by automotive ecommerce provider Epyx, has found that more that more than half (56 percent) of company cars are now equipped with alloy wheels 18 inches or over.

This trend for big wheels amongst fleet users is attributed to the rise in popularity of electric and plug-in hybrid cars, which are more likely to ride on larger rims.

EV and hybrids leading the trend

The growth in alloy wheels beyond 18 inches has increased substantially across the past three years. In 2021, some 42 percent of company cars came with wheels 18 inches or over.

By 2022 this had increased to 47 percent, followed by 52 percent in 2023.

A link with electric and hybrid vehicles is likely to be contributing to the upward trend. During 2023, almost half (48.8 percent) of all fleet cars registered were battery models, with plug-in hybrids accounting for 19.1 percent.

Further research by Epyx found that almost three-quarters (74 percent) of electric cars come with 18-inch plus tyres.

In comparison, 63 percent of hybrid cars come with alloy wheels more than 18-inch in size, and 52 percent of diesel and petrol models.

More costs, questionable benefits

Tim Meadows, CCO, Epyx, said: “What the data shows is that there’s been a rapid increase in company car tyre sizes over a relatively short period of time, and the trend line suggests that is probably likely to continue.

“Bigger tyres are almost always fitted for cosmetic purposes, filling the wheel arch of the car. Some would argue that they offer marginally improved handling but that’s not really applicable when it comes to the kinds of models and motoring seen on most fleets.”

Meadows adds: “There are certainly downsides. They are more expensive and more prone to damage, which adds up to additional bills for fleets.

“That’s quite a price to pay for something that just looks a little better.”

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World Rallycross could come to Coventry city centre!

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World Rallycross could come to Coventry city centre!

By

John Redfern

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May 31, 2024

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The streets of Coventry could soon be experiencing international motorsport as part of the renowned MotoFest event, which kicks off today (Friday 31 May) and runs throughout the weekend.

Next year could see a round of the FIA World Rallycross Championship take place on a unique sprint course, created from Coventry’s ring road.

Discussions between the organisers of MotoFest Coventry and the FIA World Rallycross promoters are said to be at an “advanced” phase.

This weekend sees the tenth anniversary of MotoFest Coventry, with a host of events taking place in the centre of the West Midlands city.

Motorsport in the heart of the West Midlands

An FIA World Rallycross Championship round would be hosted as part of the MotoFest Coventry event, operating alongside existing sprint races and drift events.

Last year saw an FIA World Rallycross event take place in the heart of Hong Kong, demonstrating the appeal of bringing motorsport into the city.

The 2024 FIA World Rallycross Championship sees all-electric RX1e competing against sustainably-fuelled combustion cars for the first time.

Although the UK has hosted rounds of the Formula E championship, there has been no permanent street circuit hosting motorsport since the Birmingham Superprix. Held between 1986 and 1990, this saw single seaters, touring cars, and sports car racing on urban roads.

Getting all the pieces in place

A potential course layout has already been drafted, with help from Kevin Hansen, runner-up in the 2023 FIA World Rallycross Championship. Before moving further forward, consultation will take place with local residents and key stakeholders.

James Noble, MotoFest Coventry Festival Director, said: “MotoFest Coventry is hugely excited to have entered into advanced discussions with the FIA World Rallycross Championship promoter to host a World RX round at our 2025 festival weekend.

“We have made no secret in the past of our ambition to stage competitive motorsport on Coventry Ring Road and having successfully delivered closed-road time trials, we are now driving forward with the next phase of that plan.

“With a track design drawn up by Driven International, we are close to having all the pieces in place for this ambitious project.”

A round of the FIA World Rally Championship would add to the success already seen by MotoFest Coventry.

The free-to-attend event attracts more than 200,000 visitors, and is estimated to bring £10 million to the local economy.

More tech and design tweaks for updated 2024 BMW 3 Series

By

John Redfern

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May 30, 2024

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The big-selling BMW 3 Series has received a host of detailed changes inside and out for 2024.

Both the 3 Series Saloon and Touring estate have received the changes, being the second midlife update since it was launched in 2018.

With more than 20 million examples of the 3 Series sold since 1975, getting this core model right is hugely important for BMW.

As such, there is no radical facelift here, but the subtlest of enhancements to ensure BMW’s compact executive saloon and estate stay on top of their game.

Evolutionary exterior design

Only the most fastidious of BMW enthusiasts will notice the redesigned bumpers and side sills, although there are new 19-inch alloy wheels for those picking an M Sport model.

The addition of Arctic Race Blue metallic and Fire Red metallic mean there are now nine paint options to choose from.

A simple petrol lineup starts with the 184hp four-cylinder 320i, featuring a rear-wheel drive layout. A big jump takes buyers to the six-cylinder M340i, with a substantial 374hp and xDrive all-wheel drive.

An eight-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox is standard across the 3 Series range, but steering-wheel mounted paddles are included.

Diesel ditched for more hybrid range

The updates for 2024 have removed a stalwart of the 3 Series range, with there now being no diesel engine option available.

Instead, this leaves the plug-in hybrid 330e as the likely preferred choice for fleet managers, although it too has received extra attention.

A larger 19.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack allows for an official range of up to 63 miles on electric power alone.

Charging should also be easier, with speeds of up to 11kW now supported, allowing the battery to be fully replenished in 2 hours 15 minutes.

More equipment, but fewer buttons

On the inside, BMW has pared down the number of buttons on the dashboard, with the iDrive touchscreen gaining more functions. This means the climate control and heated seats are all operated through the infotainment screen, although BMW’s rotary iDrive controller remains.

The latest generation of BMW’s iDrive operating software allows for more customisation of how the central display and digital instrument panel look.

A new ‘QuickSelect’ bar is intended to let drivers reach key functions without the need to delve through endless menus.

There are also new steering wheel designs, a larger range of interior trim, and even the option of Crafted Clarity crystal-effect finishes for the gear selector and iDrive controller.

On sale now for deliveries this summer

The 3 Series range begins with Sport trim, with 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, and three-zone climate control all included. BMW’s Live Cockpit Pro digital instrument panel, and a curved infotainment screen with satellite navigation, are also standard.

Prices for the BMW 3 Series start at £39,045 for the 320i in saloon form, with the 330e plug-in hybrid requiring at least £46,080. The range-topping M340i costs from £57,845.

Orders can be placed for the updated BMW 3 Series now, with production expected to begin in July 2024. The first deliveries to customers should happen later in the summer.

Guildford’s Katherine Legge to tackle Pikes Peak hillclimb

By

John Redfern

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May 29, 2024

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British racing driver Katherine Legge will compete in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb next month.

The Guilford-born driver will be competing for the first time in the famous event, which sees competitors climb 1,440 metres (4,720 feet) over the 12.42-mile Colorado course.

Legge suffered mixed emotions at the recent Indianapolis 500 race, having endured a nail-biting fight to qualify. However, engine failure saw Legge forced to retire early from the race.

Despite her extensive motorsport history, having raced in everything from sports cars to NASCAR, this is the first time Legge has competed at Pikes Peak.

A magical race to the clouds

“This is a race that I’ve wanted to compete in since I first heard of it, which is for as long as I can remember,” Legge said.

“The legacy of this event is enormous, and so many famous drivers have tackled the mountain: the Unsers, the Dallenbachs – including my friend Paul – Parnelli Jones, Mario Andretti, Rick Mears and Michèle Mouton. I can’t wait to get there! It’s magical and something I’m not taking lightly!”

For 2024, Legge will drive an Acura Integra Type S DE5, developed for production-based touring car racing.

A relative of the Honda Civic Type R, the Integra features a 360hp turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, combined with a six-speed paddle-shift transmission.

Paul Hubers, from Honda’s Auto Development Center, will also be racing an Acura Integra A-Spec at Pikes Peak.

Reaching for new heights

Winning at Pikes Peak would be another achievement in Legge’s career. She holds the record for the fastest Indianapolis 500 qualifying time, and was the first woman to win a major open-wheel race in North America in 2005.

Acura is just one manufacturer looking for victory at Pikes Peak in 2024.

Hyundai has already announced that it will use multiple versions of the high-performance electric Ioniq 5 N. The Korean brand is pursuing victory in the electric production SUV/crossover category, with a pair of near road-legal cars.

Volkswagen has the outright record at Pikes Peak. Its time of 7min 57.15sec was achieved by the electric ID. R racer in 2018.

Special Audi RS 4 celebrates hot estate’s 25th anniversary – for £115k

By

John Redfern

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May 29, 2024

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To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the original RS 4 estate, Audi has announced a special limited-edition model.

Aptly named the Audi RS 4 Avant Edition 25 Years, the celebratory hot wagon will deliver more power and the option of retro-inspired colours.

A host of other important upgrades will be included, but just 50 examples are set to be offered to UK Audi enthusiasts. And a six-figure price tag guarantees it elite status…

Party like it’s 1999

Now into a fourth generation, Audi released the original RS 4 in 1999. Based upon the B5 Audi A4 platform, it featured a twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 engine, combined with Quattro all-wheel drive.

In 2001, Audi launched an upgraded RS 4 Sport version, with lowered suspension, Recaro bucket seats, and a performance exhaust.

We have previously had the chance to experience the RS 4 Sport that forms part of Audi UK’s heritage fleet.

For the new RS 4 Avant Edition 25 Years, Audi has followed the trend created by that first Sport model. This means a boost in power for the twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 to 470hp, with 443lb ft of torque.

The 0-62mph time drops by 0.4 seconds to 3.7 seconds compared to a regular RS 4, with the top speed increased to 186mph.

Drop it to the floor

Along with the hike in power, the RS 4 Avant Edition 25 Years benefits from a sports exhaust system, carbon ceramic brakes, and coilover suspension. This drops the RS 4 10mm closer to the floor, with a further 10mm of lowering available by manually adjusting the suspension.

This should give the RS 4 Avant Edition 25 Years a perfect stance over its 20-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels.

Other design highlights include gloss black side window trim, a black inlay for the tail lights, gloss black badging, and the removal of the standard roof rails.

A matt carbon fibre styling package adds a new front splitter, rear diffuser, and side mirror caps. Special ‘RS 4 Avant Edition 25 Years’ lettering is engraved into the rear windows, too.

For Audi Sport enthusiasts

On the inside, a set of carbon fibre-backed bucket seats are another throwback to the RS 4 Sport, as is the extensive use of Alcantara. Yellow stitching is used extensively, and there is a sequentially numbered build plaque found on the centre console.

Buyers will be able to pick from Nardo Grey, Mythos Black, and a special Audi Exclusive Imola Yellow paint colour.

Prices for the RS 4 Avant Edition 25 Years begin from £115,800, although the retro-tastic Imola Yellow version will require £119,180.

Orders can be placed now, with fans likely needing to move fast to secure one of the 50 cars destined for the UK.

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Here’s how YOUR CAR could become a Hot Wheels die-cast toy

By

Daniel Puddicombe

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May 29, 2024

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Would you like to see your car transformed into a die-cast model? Now is your chance, courtesy of Hot Wheels and its Legends Tour.

Now into its seventh year, the Hot Wheels competition allows car owners to compete for the opportunity to have their pride and joy recreated in 1:64 scale – and then sold in the shops.

To enter, you need to upload a short video and a brief description highlighting your vehicle’s creativity, authenticity and ‘garage spirit’ to the Hot Wheels Legends Tour website. The deadline is 5 July 2024.

Hot Wheels heading to Birmingham

According to Hot Wheels, the judging panel – which includes the company’s designer, Craig Callum – is looking for evidence that owners have committed early mornings, late nights and plenty of determination to help their car stand out from the crowd.

The Gravity Show, held at the NEC in Birmingham on 24 and 25 August, will host the three finalists. The UK winner then competes against aspiring car builders from around the world at the global semi-final on November 2, followed by the global grand finale on November 11. The overall champion will be transformed into a die-cast toy sold around the world.

Unlike in some sporting competitions, the UK has a good track record here. For the past three years, the British winner has reached the grand finale. And in 2021, Lee Johnstone’s 1969 Volvo P1800 ‘Gasser’ won the competition.

One-off customs to modified supercars

Ted Wu, head of design for vehicles at Hot Wheels’ parent company, Mattel, said: “The UK always blows us away with unique cars that are worthy of being recreated as Hot Wheels.

“From sleeper classics from the 1960s and 1970s, wild one-off customs, iconic race cars to the latest dramatic modified supercars, the sheer diversity and quality make the UK final a tough judgement, but it always offers true legends.”

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Ducati honours Senna with limited edition Monster motorcycle

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Ayrton Senna celebrated with limited edition Ducati Monster motorcycle

By

John Redfern

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May 28, 2024

0

Italian motorbike manufacturer Ducati has announced a special version of its famous Monster, dedicated to the late F1 driver Ayrton Senna.

Wearing a special livery created by Centro Stile Ducati, just 341 examples of the Monster Senna will be made.

It is the latest tribute to the Brazilian icon, who died 30 years ago in a tragic accident at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.

The McLaren Formula 1 team raced in a special Senna-inspired livery at the recent Monaco Grand Prix – and created a one-off Senna supercar in tribute.

Celebrating the life of Senna

The Monster Senna wears a commemorative livery, featuring the yellow, green and blue colours used on the Brazilian’s racing helmet.

The livery extends to the front Brembo brake calipers, and even the tags on the lightweight forged alloy wheels. Blue is used for the seat, which also has an embossed Senna logo.

Powering the Monster Senna is a 937cc ‘Testastretta’ V-twin engine, producing 111hp and 69lb ft of torque.

Öhlins suspension, an aluminium subframe and carbon fibre mud guards all help reduce the dry weight of the Monster Senna to 175kg.

A historic partnership

This is not the first time the Senna name has appeared on a Ducati motorbike. During the early 1990s, Senna became close friends with then-president and owner of Ducati, Claudio Castiglioni.

Senna received a 851 SP from Castiglioni in 1990, and became one of the very first owners of a Ducati Monster 900 when it was launched in 1993.

In March 1994, Senna agreed a deal with Ducati to put his name on a limited-edition version of the 916 superbike. Production was delayed due to Senna’s death, but later restarted with the approval of his family.

In 2013, Ducati announced a limited-run 1199 Panigale S Senna, which was only sold in Brazil.

Ready for collectors now

Each of the 341 examples will come with a unique serialised plaque on its steering head. A special bike cover and a certificate of authenticity will be included, too.

Limiting production of the Monster Senna to 341 examples is no coincidence. The ‘3’ represents the number of Formula One World Championships won by Ayrton Senna, with the ’41’ standing for his total number of Grand Prix victories.

Orders can be placed for the Ducati Monster Senna now, with UK prices starting at £23,500.

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