RALLY ROUND LAUNCHES 2020 – 2022 CALENDAR OF DRIVING ADVENTURES INCLUDING MONGOLIA, ETHIOPIA AND ‘WILD’ ALASKA

RALLY ROUND LAUNCHES 2020 – 2022 CALENDAR OF DRIVING ADVENTURES INCLUDING MONGOLIA, ETHIOPIA AND ‘WILD’ ALASKA

Rolls-Royce in the Himalayas

Rally Round has launched its calendar of epic adventures for 2020 through to 2022, which includes three brand new rallies that journey to Mongolia, Ethiopia and the wilds of Alaska.

Rally Director Liz Wenman said: “The success of the Trans-Himalayan Adventure shows the sort of experience that these explorers are looking for in their cars. It doesn’t always need to be about hard competition and the quickest time. We have created a calendar which allows crews to visit the undiscovered in the most spectacular way.”

Kicking off 2020 is an opulent and luxurious tour of Rajasthan on the Maharajan Marathon in February, which will explore historic palaces and the most spectacular scenery over 18-days. This will be followed by a second adventure journeying up and over the Himalayas.

After the success of the inaugural Trans-Himalayan Adventure earlier this year, Rally Round will return to China, Tibet and Nepal for another 21-day expedition of tough terrain and high altitudes. Starting late April, highlights include the city of Lhasa, the lost Western Tibetan Kingdom of Guge, sacred Mount Kailash and Everest Base Camp.

The following year starts with the inaugural Pure Mongolia, a three-week competitive event that explores the national parks, ancient rivers and vast desert of this stunning frontier. This is ideal for any rally crew who has previously competed on the Peking to Paris rally and wishes to spend more time in this beautiful country. A mix of the competition will be on offer, but more focus will be given to the journey and camaraderie of the entrants.

Mongolia is followed in the autumn by the second Rally Round Africa, a luxury event which mixes opulent game drives with some mildly competitive driving. This rally is ideal for novices and couples looking to combine their driving with brilliant safaris.

The year ends with another brand-new event and a first for any international rally organiser as Rally Round heads to the incredible vastness and changing landscape of ancient Ethiopia.

Unexplored by many westerners, this is a unique rally across a stunning country of which most people only know from the horrific images of poverty historically shown to the world. Recently visited by the new Top Gear presenters in their new series opener, the route will not be for the faint-hearted and like the Trans-Himalayan Adventure, will see enough competition in the terrain, elements and altitude.

In 2022, Rally Round will return to Japan for the second Samurai Challenge, having previously visited in 2017. Visiting in the spring when the famous cherry blossom will be in full bloom, this competitive rally also takes in the beautiful Japanese culture as well as a fantastic route through this interesting country.

In the autumn of that year, Rally Round will hold its third new epic adventure – Wild Alaska. Moving away from the more tourist areas, the route will explore the depths of Alaska and the Yukon. As well a route taking advantage of undiscovered roads, there will also be time for taking in the wildlife of this breath-taking region.

The rest of the Rally Round calendar will include a series of shorter events designed to encourage newcomers to the endurance rally scene along with dedicated training events held worldwide.

Rally Round offers amazing adventures all over the world, creating unique events that combine the passion for historic motoring with the adventure of global travel. Find out about future events on the Rally Round website -  www.rallyround.co.uk.

CLASSIC LOOKS AND STEALTH PERFORMANCE – KINGSLEY CARS LAUNCHES TWO NEW UPGRADE KITS FOR CLASSIC RANGE ROVERS

Kingsley Cars Suspension Kit

The Range Rover engineering and restoration specialist Kingsley Cars has released a unique range of direct-fitment upgrades for classic Range Rover models that allow owners to improve their vehicles, without changing the appearance of their classic cars. Engineered to transform the handling and braking characteristics of classic cars, the Fast Road Suspension Kit and Fast Road Brake kit are designed to be quickly and easily fitted in place of OEM equipment.

As an independent Range Rover specialist, with over 20 years’ experience in the marketplace, Kingsley Cars has used the expertise gained over countless restorations to engineer its two latest off-the-shelf upgrade packages. For owners of classic Range Rovers who are seeking to improve the ride and safety of their vehicles without having to compromise the visual or structural integrity of their classic cars, the brake and suspension kits provide an ideal solution at an affordable price.

Damon Oorloff, founder and chairman of Kingsley Cars, said “With the new Kingsley Cars Fast Road Suspension Performance Brake Kit, the ride and handling is transformed, and stronger, safer braking is achieved without the need to fit bigger, aftermarket alloy wheels. Not only does the driver have increased enjoyment and confidence in their vehicles, but also the classic looks of the Range Rover are preserved. We are able to transform these vehicles into what are, for their size, truly engaging drivers cars, while maintaining the correct period aesthetic.”

Kit details:

The Kingsley Cars Performance Brake Kit is also designed to be a direct fitment across all classic Range Rover models and is the only available performance brake kit that can be fitted under a factory-spec 16” wheel. Featuring six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston callipers at the rear, the Kingsley system provides exceptional stopping power, increased pedal feel and a remarkable resistance to fade, even under heavy use. It is unique in being the most compact performance braking system available on the market, meaning that it does not require the fitment of larger diameter wheels to accommodate the upgrade.

The Kingsley Cars Fast Road Suspension set has been engineered as a 31-piece kit that maintains the near magic-carpet ride for which these luxury vehicles are known but in combination with tuned dampers and custom springs that gives these cars driver appeal on today’s roads. Compliant ride quality at low speed, with high levels of vehicle control and minimal body roll at high speed, is transformative for both drivers and passengers alike. The kit is sold as a complete set and includes all the necessary bushes, bolts and clips needed for fitment, which can be carried out by any reputable garage, or confident home mechanic.

Damon added, “Although a well-accepted range of enhancements exists for those looking to maximize the off-road capabilities of their Range Rovers, in our experience over the last 25 years, our clients use their classic Range Rovers primarily on the road. When we looked for suspension kits that would allow them to enjoy their vehicles in this way, we couldn’t find any that matched the three criteria of, comfort, control and ease of fitting so we engineered our own. I am proud to say that the Kingsley Cars Fast Road suspension kit gives possibly the best ride you will ever experience in a Range Rover Classic.”

Both kits are available to be purchased online or by phone direct from Kingsley Cars and are priced both individually and wholesale, subject to negotiation. All kits are able to be shipped globally for local fitting or can be fitted on appointment by Kingsley Cars in their Oxfordshire workshops.

Fast Road Suspension Kit includes:

• 4 x high-performance custom calibrated dampers (fully serviceable) with rubber mounting kit
• 4 x lowered spring set with new front and rear isolator mounts
• 1 x Uprated rear anti-roll bar
• 2 x Rear anti-roll bar links and bushes 
• 2 x Front anti-roll bar links and bushes
• 4 x ARB mount bushes (front and rear) 
• 4 x Trailing arm bushes (front and rear)
• 8 x Radius arm bushes (front and rear)
• 2 x A-frame bushes
• All required bolts and nylock nuts

Total kit £2,895+VAT supplied only, or £3,775+VAT fitted

Upgrade Brake Kit includes:

• Six-piston front calipers, clips and hoses

• Four-piston rear calipers, clips and hoses

• 4 x vented disks

• 4 x performance brake pads

Total kit £4995 + VAT Supplied. Wholesale pricing available on request

‘MR LE MANS’ LAUNCHES CLASSIC TRIBUTE TO THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ROUND-THE-CLOCK RACE

‘MR LE MANS’ LAUNCHES CLASSIC TRIBUTE TO THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ROUND-THE-CLOCK RACE

Tom Kristensen launching Twilight Tribute to Le Mans at the Classic

This summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July) will honour Le Mans, the world’s most famous 24-hour race, with Saturday evening’s on-track action featuring three spectacular sportscar showdowns under the evocative ‘Twilight Tribute to Le Mans’ banner.

The exciting initiative was launched today (Wednesday 10 April) at the special Silverstone Classic Preview by Tom Kristensen, the great Danish racer who holds the record for the most outright victories at Le Mans.

Widely known as ‘Mr Le Mans’, Kristensen has won the gallic endurance epic no fewer than nine times, six of which were consecutive successes between 2000 and 2005. Seven of his wins came with Audi, one in a TWR Porsche and one with Bentley in 2003.

“Le Mans is very much where my career unfolded, but it actually began almost by accident,” he revealed. “I only signed with the team four days before the race in 1997 as a late replacement, so I had very big ears trying to gather as much information as possible.

“I had a little bit of prior sportscar experience, but Le Mans is obviously a different challenge altogether. I didn’t know the track, and I only got chance to drive 17 timed laps before the race. It was quite an eye-opener, and I fell in love with the race there and then.

“It will be a real highlight of this summer’s Silverstone Classic to see these cars driving into the dusk – that’s when the race truly starts at Le Mans. For me, the UK is very much the centre of motorsport – and Silverstone is at the heart of it all.”

Ensuring the Classic tribute celebrates the full history of Le Mans, the trio of races selected for the Saturday evening highlight programme will feature 150 cars spanning almost a century of racing through the French countryside, drawn from the Bentley Centenary Trophy for Pre War Sports Cars, FIA Masters Historic Sports Cars and Masters Endurance Legends.

Bringing some of the Le Mans magic to Silverstone, all three showdowns will see iconic cars racing flat-out into the sunset and will run to a mini-enduro format, with mid-race pit-stops for driver changes.

The Bentley Centenary Trophy for Pre War Sports Cars will not only celebrate the illustrious Crewe company’s 100th birthday with a record entry of Bentleys from the 1920s and 1930s, but will also showcase early Aston Martins, Alfa Romeos, Bugattis, Lagondas and MGs from the dawn of Le Mans.

The celebrated Circuit de la Sarthe staged the very first running of the now fabled 24 Heures du Mans back in 1923 on closed public roads close to the city of Le Mans in north western France. A lone Bentley was among the pace-setters in that inaugural race, and the hallowed marque won five times over the following seven years – and then again in 2003, when Kristensen was among the victorious driving crew.

The more recent Tom Kristensen era is celebrated by the Masters Endurance Legends grid, which caters for both the super-fast prototypes and supercar GTs that competed at Le Mans between 1995 and 2012.

The FIA Masters Historic Sports Cars that complete the sparkling Twilight Tribute to Le Mans at the Classic highlight another great Le Mans epoch, with a glittering line-up of racers from the 1960s and early 1970s. Typically, the grid includes legendary Ferrari 512s, Ford GT40s, Lola T70s and Porsche 917s.

“It’s going to be an absolutely amazing evening and a real crowd-pleaser,” predicts Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO. “The three races cover almost the entire history of Le Mans from the original ‘Bentley Boys’ right up to the current generation of hi-tech Peugeot and Aston Martin purpose-built prototypes. Watching them all race into the twilight will be very special for everybody attending the Classic this summer – and to have Tom Kristensen’s blessing is the icing on the cake!”

All those wishing to share in the spectacular Twilight Tribute to Le Mans celebrations at this summer’s Silverstone Classic must purchase their tickets in advance, with adult admission starting at £45.

Once again, all tickets will provide access to both Silverstone racing paddocks, all open trackside grandstands, live music concerts which this summer mark the 50thanniversary of Woodstock on both Friday and Saturday evenings, air shows, Drive Live test drives, funfair rides and the vast majority of the family entertainment on offer.

A wide range of child, young adult and family tickets are also available, along with camping and hospitality options. Full details of all 2019 ticket prices are detailed on the silverstoneclassic.com website. 

LONDON CONCOURS LAUNCHES LUXURIOUS NEW HOSPITALITY WITH HIX AND VEUVE CLICQUOT

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LONDON CONCOURS LAUNCHES LUXURIOUS NEW HOSPITALITY WITH HIX AND VEUVE CLICQUOT

The London Concours has officially revealed its luxurious new hospitality offering

The London Concours, presented by Montres Breguet, has formally launched its exceptional new hospitality offering in association with celebrated chef, Mark Hix, and Veuve Clicquot champagne. The London Concours was established in 2017 as the capital's finest automotive garden party and, with these all-new fine food and drink offerings, it delivers on that promise more than ever.

VIP hospitality guests to the London Concours will be treated to a three-course lunch menu designed by Mark Hix in a pop-up 300 cover restaurant on-site at the Honourable Artillery Company Gardens, called HIX London Concours. Hix will be presenting two very special lunch menus based on his inimitable style of simply cooked, British seasonal food. With specially paired wines, fine coffee and Julian Temperley’s cider brandy truffles, the HIX London Concours lunch is the ultimate automotive garden party indulgence.

From the HIX London Concours three-course lunch, to afternoon tea in the gardens and our London Concours cocktail party, there's always an opportunity for you to have a glass of champagne in-hand. This year, London Concours is delighted to be partnering with Veuve Clicquot, pioneers of the finest champagne since 1772. 

Andrew Evans, London Concours Director, said: “The London Concours has always had a spectacular collection of cars at its heart, and with the world-famous touches of Mark Hix and Veuve Clicquot, we’re confident we have a hospitality offering to match. There is unequivocally nothing else like the London Concours; this award-winning luxury automotive event provides a totally unique experience within London's Square Mile for entertaining your friends, colleagues or business associates amongst a selection of the finest cars ever built.”

In total, nearly 100 automotive greats of all eras will be on display on the idyllic lawns of the Honourable Artillery Company HQ when the London Concours rolls into the City from 5-6 June. Curated across seven distinct classes, including ‘The Icons’ and ‘The Innovators’, London Concours is the ultimate automotive summer garden party.

The London Concours 2019 takes place from 5-6 June. Tickets are available to buy now from www.londonconcours.co.uk/tickets. More information on hospitality is available at www.londonconcours.co.uk/hospitality/ 

PRODUCT LAUNCHES AND CAR DEBUTS LEAD ACTION-PACKED FIRST DAY AT AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL

PRODUCT LAUNCHES AND CAR DEBUTS LEAD ACTION-PACKED FIRST DAY AT AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL

BTCC Launch

Autosport International has opened its doors for 2019 – and it’s been a spectacular day of unveils already, including the European debut of Porsche’s stunning 935 ‘Moby Dick’ and a number of British Touring Car Championship cars and driver line-ups. 

Appearing on the Porsche stand throughout the four-day event, this very special track-only car is inspired by the famous 1970s racer. Revealed a few months ago at the ‘Rennsport Reunion’ event in California, only 77 will ever be built, each packing the same 690bhp, 3.8-litre twin-turbo flat-six and chassis underpinnings of the latest 911 GT2 RS.

BAC announced Pirelli as its official tyre partner, which means its Mono single-seater sports car will run on the P Zero Trofeo R tyre. The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) announcements ramped up for the new season with Cataclean Racing unveiling its race car, a Mercedes-Benz A-Class run by Ciceley Motorsport and driven by Renault Clio UK Cup graduate, Dan Rowbottom, who will make his BTCC debut this season.

AmD Tuning revealed its new livery for the team’s Honda Civics, which will be raced by Sam Tordoff and Rory Butcher in the 2019 British Touring Car Championship season, while Motorbase Performance revealed Ollie Jackson and Tom Chilton as their drivers for the upcoming season.

The wraps also came off the Series Elite 2019 Jaguar XE SV Project 8 race car. This tantalising championship is a brand-new, one-make race series for over-50s, with each driver grappling with the 600hp, 200mph machine.

F1 fans were in for a treat too, with the presentation of McLaren’s 2018 MCL33 F1 Car on the F1 Racing stand, alongside a full grid of cars from the summit of motorsport.

Ferrari confirmed two new race car activities for 2019 at Autosport International, with the Ferrari Challenge UK series confirmed with four races for this year and the announcement of new Club Competizioni GT track events for owners of Competizioni GT cars from 1989-2018.

It was back-to-back star names over at the Autosport Stage, with appearances from a host of famous faces, including ex-F1 drivers Martin Brundle, Derek Warwick and David Brabham, W Series drivers Jessica Hawkins and Esmee Hawkey and a special appearance from five-time Australian V8 Supercar Championship Series winner, Mark Skaife.

Over in Autosport Engineering, which takes place until Friday 11th January and hosts the world’s leading component suppliers and innovation experts, there were Product Showcase awards recognising the best in the engineering business.

The winner for Innovation was Bcomp (for its Power Ribs), while the Cross Industry Application went to Aero Tec (for its FIA FT5 Safety) and the Vehicle Performance Tuningaward was picked up by HP Tuners (for its MPV12). The Safety category was won by Bosch (for its ABS M5 Kit), Lightweighting went to Evo Corse (for the Evo Jack), while Data & Measurement was picked up by Texense (for the Texense IRN8-WS4).

Finally, Manufacturing & Fabrication went to Motordrive Seats (for its MD20 FIA8862 seat), Electronics was collected by Cartek (for its Speed Marshall) and the Energy Efficiency award went to Bosch Motorsport (for its Electric Coolant).

And that’s just the start of the four-day event. Over the course of this weekend, visitors to Autosport International will be able to see and hear from Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, who will be opening the show on Super Saturday (12th January). Johnny Herbert will be joined by Karun Chandhok on the Autosport Stage on Sunday 13th January. 

Saturday also marks the official launch of the WRC and all of the drivers, co-drivers and team principals from the teams competing in 2019 will be at the show. In addition, Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team, Citroën Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team and M-Sport World Rally Team will all reveal their new cars and liveries to the crowds.

An all-new dedicated and expert global ticketing & travel operation, Motorsport Live, was launched at the show with a feature stand aimed at providing visitors and sports fans with a full racing experience. Motorious.com, the all-new international car collector digital platform, was launched with a host of supercars on display in the Performance and Tuning Car Show.

Autosport International is part of Motorsport Network’s flagship title, Autosport – one of the world’s leading print and online motorsport publishers. Motorsport Network is the world’s largest independent automotive and motorsport-related digital platform, connecting millions of people who love motorsport and cars.

The network also creates key industry events including the annual Autosport Awards and the Motorsport Business Leaders’ Forum.

Tickets are available at www.autosportinternational.com.

Source: Autosport International 2019