Bridge Classic Cars Welcome the Future with MG Cyberster Test Drive Day
Bridge Classic Cars, known for its passion for restoring and preserving classic cars, is very excited to announce an exciting event that combines the past with the future. On Saturday, 12th October 2024, the MG Cyberster Test Drive Day will take place, giving guests an opportunity to experience the revolutionary all-electric sports car first-hand.
With a deep love of classic vehicles, Bridge Classic Cars understands that the future of motoring will look very different to its current state. While electric vehicles (EVs) may not be the only solution, Bridge Classic Cars welcomes the opportunity to showcase innovations like the MG Cyberster – a fantastic display of modern motoring – at this event.
Two MG Cybersters will be seen on the day: one available for test drives, while the other will be on display in The Classic Lounge, the bespoke events space right next door to the main restoration workshop. The Cyberster’s cutting-edge technology has already impressed some of the company’s special guests when they were invited to the local launch of the powerful sportscar at the EMG Ipswich showroom a few weeks ago. Bridge Classic Cars teamed up with EMG Ipswich as both parties demonstrate how the automotive world is evolving while still keeping sight of the passion and engineering that got us to where we are today.
Rob Harvey, Marketing Manager at Bridge Classic Cars, expressed the company’s commitment to embracing innovation: “At Bridge Classic Cars, we will never lose our appreciation for the beauty and craftsmanship of classic cars, but we also understand that the industry must adapt as we move into a more sustainable future. The MG Cyberster is a perfect example of how modern design and technology can merge with the passion of classic motoring. We’re very excited to offer a hands-on experience for our guests to explore the all-new MG Cyberster and we hope they see how exciting some EVs can be.”
Running from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, the MG Cyberster Test Drive Day is free to attend but booking is required to ensure everyone gets an appropriate amount of time with the car.
Guests will also be able to enjoy drinks at the bar and will be able to see the range of classic cars in the workshop,
Just a few hours ago, McLaren revealed its brand new supercar, the W1, as the successor to the iconic McLaren F1 and P1.
The W1 combines Formula 1 style aerodynamics, hybrid technology, and lightweight engineering to deliver what McLaren calls the “ultimate supercar experience.”
Powertrain
The W1 has a hybrid powertrain, combining the all-new MHP-8 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with an electric motor. The result is 1275PS or around 1257 horsepower, which is the highest power output of any McLaren road car ever made. This hybrid system consists of the MHP-8 V8 combustion engine, which, on its own, generates 928PS and revs up to 9,200 rpm. Paired with a 347PS electric motor, the car has a power-to-weight ratio of 911PS per tonne!
The electric motor is part of a compact “E-module” that integrates the motor control unit, contributing to the car’s efficiency and lighter weight. In total, the car weighs just 1,399 kg which makes it exceptionally fast. 0 – 62 mph takes 2.7 seconds and the W1 will continue up to a top speed of 217 mph (electronically capped).
Aerodynamics and Engineering Inspired by Formula 1
A big part of the W1’s impressive performance comes from its Formula 1-inspired aerodynamics. McLaren engineers have spent over 350 hours testing the car in a wind tunnel to make sure it has an optimal balance of low drag and high downforce. This includes the use of McLaren’s Active Long Tail rear wing, which extends by 300mm to generate up to 1,000 kg of downforce in Race mode. The front and rear wings adjust automatically based on driving conditions so the car remains planted at high speeds.
The W1’s ground-effect aerodynamics are also a fantastic feature. When switching to Race mode, the car lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear. This maximises downforce which can lead to even greater track performance. This configuration allows the W1 to lap McLaren’s test track 3 seconds faster than the previous record-holder, the McLaren Senna.
The W1’s handling is enhanced by its new Race Active Chassis Control III suspension. In Race mode, the suspension stiffens, and the active heave system, borrowed from McLaren’s Formula 1 technology, helps the car maintain stability at high speeds.
McLaren’s focus on driver engagement means that the W1 is rear-wheel-drive. This is becoming increasingly rare in modern supercars so it’s clearly been well thought through by the team. This choice, along with McLaren’s hydraulic performance steering, makes sure you have full control over the car’s eye-watering power and torque.
The W1 features McLaren’s bespoke Aerocell carbon fibre monocoque chassis which has been designed to integrate seating into the structure of the car.
The car’s interior is a mix of luxury and function. It includes materials like McLaren’s new InnoKnit, a lightweight and customisable fabric that changes and enhances both aesthetics and comfort.
Despite the car’s focus on track performance, the cabin includes comforts such as Apple CarPlay and a high-resolution infotainment system. McLaren has also included digital elements into the driver experience, with boost and aero buttons on the steering wheel for real-time control over the car’s power delivery and aerodynamic settings.
Only 399 units of the McLaren W1 will be produced, and they’ve already been allocated to customers. Each car will be highly customisable through McLaren Special Operations (MSO), allowing owners to tailor their vehicle’s exterior and interior with pretty much limitless options.
Pricing and Availability
The McLaren W1 is priced at around £2 million in the UK, depending on the level of customisation chosen.
Technical Specification
Engine configuration
MHP-8 90° 4.0L (3988cc) twin-turbocharged V8 – hybrid drivetrain with radial flux electric module
Drivetrain layout
Longitudinal, mid-engined, RWD
Power PS (bhp/kW) @ rpm
1275 (1258/938): 928 (916/683) from petrol engine, 347 (342/255) from electric module
Torque Nm (lb ft) @ rpm
1340 (988) @ 4500-5000rpm: 900 (664) from petrol engine, 440 (324) from electric module
Transmission
8-speed DCT with E-reverse
Steering
McLaren Hydraulic Performance Steering Electro-Hydraulic Power Assisted
Chassis
McLaren Aerocell with high footbox, integrated seating, integrated front subframe, integrated single piece upper structure
Suspension
McLaren Race Active Chassis Control III with visible inboard active heave suspension, 3D printed and titanium suspension components, rear active drop links and adaptive damping. Front and rear double wishbone
Brakes
McLaren Carbon Ceramic Racing+ (MCCR+) system with Front: 390mm brake discs with 6 piston Forged Monobloc Front Calipers.Rear: 390mm brake discs with 4 piston Forged Monobloc Rear Calipers and Integrated EPB
Wheels (inches)
F19 x 9.5J / R20 x 12.0J
Tyres
Pirelli P ZERO™ R Tyres & Pirelli P ZERO™ Trofeo RS TyresF 265/35/R19R 335/30/R20
Length, mm (inches)
4635 (182)
Wheelbase, mm (inches)
2680 (106)
Height, mm (inches)
1182 (47)
Width, with mirrors, mm (inches)
2191 (86)
Width, mirrors folded, mm (inches)
2074 (82)
Track (to contact patch centre), mm (inches)
Front: 1676 (66); Rear 1624 (64)
Lightest dry weight, kg (lbs)
1399 (3084)
Power-to-weight (PS/tonne)
911
Fuel tank capacity, litres (UK/USA gallons)
62 (16/19)
Battery capacity (KWh)
1.384
Battery charge time (minutes)
22 (via EVSE cable) to 80%
Electric-only range (km/miles)
2/1.6
Luggage capacity, litres (wet/DIN)
118/87
Performance data
0-97km/h (0-60mph)
2.7 seconds
0-100km/h (0-62mph)
2.7 seconds
0-200km/h (0-124mph)
5.8 seconds
0-300km/h (0-186mph)
<12.7 seconds
Maximum speed km/h (mph)
350 (217) (electronically limited)
200-0km/h (124mph-0) braking, metres (ft)
100 (328)
100-0km/h (62mph-0) braking, metres (ft)
29 (95)
Downforce kg (lbs)
Limited to 1000 (2205) @280km/h (174mph):Front: 350 (772) maxRear: 650 (1433) max
The Bridge Classic Cars team have been at it again! After another jam packed week they sit down to go through everything that’s been going on at the Suffolk HQ.
They talk through synthetic fuels after our visit from Jake at P1 Fuels, our love of Aston Martins as well as a sneak peek at our latest episode covering the restoration of our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 barn find and then, they sit down with our in-house photographer/videographer Nick to have a chat about what goes on behind the cameras here at Bridge Classic Cars.
On Sunday (6th October), Kia UK is going to reveal a very special vehicle as part of the celebrations marking the brand’s 80th anniversary. The exclusive ‘restomod’ – a restored and modified car – will debut at the Bicester Heritage ‘Scramble’ event.
This one-of-a-kind vehicle has been created from a donor vehicle taken from Kia’s UK heritage fleet. Though details about the specific car remain an inside secret, it is said to offer a power-to-weight ratio reminiscent of popular hot hatches from the 1970s and 1980s. The focus of the redesign has been on enhancing the driving experience and creating a modern yet nostalgic feel.
This is the third custom vehicle Kia UK has built in recent years. It follows the track-focused Stinger ‘GT420’ in 2019 and the Soul EV beach buggy. The Stinger ‘GT420’ was a heavily tuned-up version of Kia’s grand tourer, with modifications aimed at transforming it into a high-performance track car. The Soul EV beach buggy was aimed at a completely different audience with its rugged setup making it perfect for surfers. It even had a custom surfboard rack, wooden-decked interior, ‘rally raid’ style elevated suspension, and chunky tyres.
The new restomod will continue this trend of creativity, innovation, and unique car design.
Vauxhall has started UK customer trials for its hydrogen-powered van, the Vivaro HYDROGEN. Over the next few months, a range of companies, including those with some of the largest fleets in the country, will be involved in these trials. This is all in preparation for the launch of the Movano HYDROGEN, which will be Vauxhall’s largest light commercial vehicle, in 2025.
The Vivaro HYDROGEN is new to the UK but it’s already available in left-hand drive markets under Vauxhall’s sister brand – Opel. This means that it is the first commercially produced hydrogen-powered van available for sale.
The Vivaro HYDROGEN is based on Vauxhall’s all-electric Vivaro Electric, but with a hydrogen fuel cell system. It has a 45kW fuel cell and a 10.5kWh lithium-ion battery giving it a driving range of 249 miles (WLTP standard). Its hydrogen fuel tanks, which are located under the floor, can be refilled in just five minutes, which isn’t too dissimilar to the time needed to refuel traditional petrol or diesel vehicles.
The 10.5kWh battery has some added benefits too, such as providing extra power during acceleration and when starting the vehicle. It also allows the fuel cell to run at optimal conditions and enables regenerative braking, which means that the braking energy is converted back into electricity to recharge the battery.
Just in case hydrogen refuelling stations are hard to come by, the van also has a plug-in feature, which gives a range of up to 31 miles of pure electric driving.
As the Vivaro HYDROGEN has an advanced hydrogen system, you wouldn’t be blamed for thinking this has an impact on space. However, it actually offers up to 6.1 cubic metres of cargo volume and a maximum payload of 1,000 kg. This matches its combustion engine counterparts pretty much exactly.
“As the UK’s best-selling electric van manufacturer for the past three years, we are already leading the way in electrifying Britain’s businesses. With a 311-mile range, zero-emissions-in-use and quick refuelling, the Movano HYDROGEN will provide fleets with another sustainable option alongside our full line-up of battery electric vans. I look forward to hearing feedback from fleet operators taking part in the trial ahead of the commercial launch of Movano HYDROGEN later this year.”
James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall
Movano HYDROGEN
Following the Vivaro trials, Vauxhall will be launching the Movano HYDROGEN in 2025. This will be its largest hydrogen-powered light commercial vehicle with the order books opening later this year. This will have an even greater range of up to 311 miles (WLTP) and the same quick refuelling time of under five minutes.
The Movano HYDROGEN will also feature a 110kW (150hp) electric motor and 410 Newton metres of torque. Like the Vivaro, it will also come with a lithium-ion battery for additional power during starts and acceleration, as well as the ability to recapture braking energy.
The Future of Hydrogen Power
The UK trial of a hydrogen-powered van is a good indication that Vauxhall is doing its bit to help grow the hydrogen vehicle market.
The Vivaro HYDROGEN and the Movano HYDROGEN could significantly reduce carbon emissions and, as their performance is comparable to traditional vehicles, there is a real chance that these two vans could help shape the future of commercial transport.
Vauxhall-Opel and its parent company Stellantis have over 20 years of expertise in hydrogen fuel cell technology. To further support hydrogen adoption, Vauxhall teamed up with UK-based company Ryze Hydrogen earlier this year with the aim of creating hydrogen refuelling infrastructure for fleet operators, enabling businesses to power their hydrogen vehicles either at on-site refuelling stations or dedicated facilities.
The UK is officially turning its back on coal-powered electricity after 142 years, as the final active coal plant in Ratcliffe-on-Soar shut down for the final time this week.
It’s hard to put into words how big of a deal this is; as coal was the foundation of the Industrial Revolution that changed the country and so many industries forever thanks to the electrical power it generated. Now though, as the UK (and the rest of the world) look to a greener and more sustainable future, renewable energy is taking over. In fact, more than 50% of the UK’s electricity is currently provided by renewable sources.
It’s something of a full circle moment in some ways as not only did the UK lead the way into fossil fuel powered industry, but it now leads the way out of fossil fuel usage and makes a big shift towards more environmentally friendly processes.
I’m surrounded by classic cars every day so I have a deep respect for the historical importance of things. That’s why I feel like this is something of a moment in the history of the UK that people will look back on as the time when the fossil fuel era ended and the sustainability era began.
Right now, there’s a lot of focus on wind and solar power. However, there are still concerns about grid stability, especially on days with very little wind when solar energy can’t fill the gap in energy supply. This is where battery technology will play a key role. Innovations are underway, but the UK needs to invest in its own battery production and expertise to stay competitive and avoid gaps in power generation.
When it comes to classic cars, and the automotive industry as a whole, sustainability is becoming more and more apparent. While I’m sure we all know hardcore petrolheads who hate EVs and they want to hear the roar of a V8 as they drive but, with synthetic fuel, this could all still happen without the negative environmental impacts.
Other fuels such as hydrogen, water, and anything else that comes along will all play a part but, for now, the last coal plant shutting down in the UK is a clear sign of the country’s commitment to a greener future..
What do you think?
One response to “No More Coal”
Andrew Parry
Couldn’t agree more Rob, can’t stop progress but there is a place for history as well. The main issue will be building infrastructure to support EV, is it really achievable? Until then the fossil burning internal combustion engine will be with us.
Will a mark one Tesla become a classic in 20 years time? Could argue the BMW i8 is already viewed as such?
The sound of a V8 should be captured and buried in a time capsule.
The first Norton F1R motorcycle to be produced and raced will be available to buy at an auction hosted by H&H Classics at the National Motorcycle Museum on Wednesday 30th October 2024. The bike is estimated to sell for between £52,000 and £56,000.
This 1990 Norton F1R is frame number one and was the first P55 (F1) model to leave Norton’s Shenstone factory on April 1st, 1990. Having been owned by a single individual since new, the bike holds significant historical and racing value and it was famously raced in Germany’s “Battle of the Twins” series.
Image: H&H ClassicsImage: H&H Classics
Throughout its racing career, the bike underwent various modifications. Starting with minor tweaks like an upgraded exhaust and inlet tract, it later received a custom swinging arm, front forks, high-compression rotors, aero engine twin-plug trochoids, and Mikuni flat-slide carburettors.
A very cool point to note about this bike is that it was nicknamed “Nepomuk” by the Seifert family after a little dragon from a popular German children’s puppet show. This was due to its habit of shooting flames when decelerating into corners!
“Our auction at the end of October is an incredible opportunity to own an extremely rare slice of motorcycle history. We expect a lot of interest in this special Norton F1 which has seen competitive action and won a number of races. It also looks amazing and is instantly recognisable in its black livery. Style, power and performance…the Norton F1R is the total package and this particular model, which has been running recently, is a must have for any Norton aficionado.”
One will be on display in The Classic Lounge, so you can take a closer look at every aspect of the incredibly powerful sports car while the other will be available to take out for a test drive to see what it’s like to drive on the road.
There will also be members of the EMG Ipswich team on hand to answer any questions and explain the finer details of the car.
While you’re here, our bar will be open for teas, coffees, soft drinks, and our wide range of alcoholic and zero-alcohol beverages, and our workshop doors will be open for you to have a look at some of the classic cars we are currently working on.
You are welcome to join us at any time between 10:30am and 3:30pm but we ask that you book an hour timeslot below when you would like to take the Cyberster out for a test drive. This allows us to make sure everyone has enough time with the car to fully experience its potential.
Even if a test drive isn’t for you, you’re still very welcome to come and join us to take a closer look at the Cyberster and to enjoy our collection of classic cars too.
This is a completely FREE to attend event (drinks will need to be paid for at the bar on the day)
A valid driving license and national insurance number will need to be provided before your test drive commences.
Each test drive will last for a maximum of 15 minutes.
The Bridge Classic Cars Suffolk HQ is always a busy place – with classics and modern cars coming in and out of our workshops every week. Last week, we welcomed 2 more brand new arrivals. A 1956 Jensen 541 and a 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera S. Both of these stunning cars will be looked at and taken care of by our restoration technicians.
1956 Jensen 541:
2007 Porsche 911 Carrera S:
September 30, 2024 3:10 pmPublished by Nick Skinner
A recent survey conducted by Isuzu UK has given us insight into how UK motorists view their own driving skills and, as it turns out, we are terrible! Well, that’s according to 15% of the drivers polled who admitted that they are bad drivers. To make things worse, 4% of drivers in the survey actually considered themselves a danger on the road!
Drivers in Cardiff, London, and Liverpool had the highest percentages of self-confessed bad drivers with 35%, 33%, and 31% of drivers in the cities owning up to their poor driving skills.
On the flip side to this, drivers in Stoke-on-Trent have the highest confidence in their driving abilities, as none admitted to being bad behind the wheel. Other cities like Nottingham (2%), Cambridge (3%), and Edinburgh (4%) also rated themselves highly in terms of driving safety.
The survey, which explored various factors contributing to these opinions, found that the challenges of modern roads play a significant role. Over half of drivers (54%) admitted they had been involved in an accident due to distractions, with 36% blaming overcrowded roads, and 32% wishing their vehicles had more advanced safety features.
Interestingly, 62% of those surveyed expressed a desire to improve their driving skills, with 61% believing they wouldn’t pass their driving test if they had to take it again. This concern is greater among drivers over the age of 60, where 63% doubt their ability to pass a modern driving test.
The study also highlighted that many drivers struggle with basic driving tasks. Around 38% find parallel parking difficult, while a third (32%) lack knowledge of car maintenance, such as checking tyre pressure or coolant levels. Other common struggles include parking in a bay (19%), driving at the speed limit (19%), and reversing around corners (17%).
“With over 50 million drivers in Great Britain, it is worrying to think that as many as 7.5 million consider themselves bad drivers. It’s clear from the research that UK motorists face many challenges on all journeys, from smaller roads, tight parking bays and even their own vehicle.With one in three saying that having a vehicle with all the mod cons like blind spot detection and attention monitoring sensors would help them to be a better driver.
Isuzu D-Max’s Advanced Driver Assist System takes pick-up truck safety to a whole new level thanks to rear cross traffic alert, lane departure prevention system and autonomous emergency braking so you’ll never have to worry behind the wheel again. This fantastic safety doesn’t happen by accident.”
George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK
Image: Isuzu UKImage: Isuzu UK
Beyond their own skills, many drivers feel unsafe in their vehicles due to outdated technology. One-third of drivers in the survey said they wish their cars had modern features like blind spot detection and attention monitoring systems to help them drive more safely. 36% also said that driving a larger car would make them feel safer on the road.
The survey also found that men were more likely than women to admit they had been in an accident due to a lack of concentration (61% vs. 47%), and younger generations (the widely discussed Gen Z and Millennials) reported being on the receiving end of road rage more often than other groups (67%).
CITIES WITH THE WORST DRIVERS, ACCORDING TO BRITISH DRIVERS:
To help with the fitting up of our Mercedes 500SL Jon has used the Mercedes 380SL that we currently have in The Classic Lounge as a good reference point.
As with all of our restorations the technicians and marketing teams here at Bridge Classic Cars work very well together to ensure that plenty of images are taken throughout the entire process
This makes the fitting up process much easier if any questions are asked. Here we have images of the bonnet furniture being fitted back up.
September 30, 2024 10:35 amPublished by Craig Ranson
Our paint and body specialist Alan has been working on getting the 1951 Austin Devon Pickup back into tip top condition. He has been working the panels and making sure that not only are all the gaps perfect but also the cab panels are perfectly level and curved where they need to be.
September 30, 2024 10:23 amPublished by Nick Skinner
Our amazing workshop manager, John, has been working on the 1979 Volkswagen Type 2 Bay Window which is in our workshops for a couple of jobs.
This time, John has been rebuilding the carburettor of the classic aircooled Volkswagen chasing down a slight dead spot. John completely cleared out the entire carburettor including spending meticulously inspecting and cleaning out the jets. After that, John fitted up the new gasket and filter kits before getting it back on top of the flat-four engine.
September 30, 2024 10:01 amPublished by Nick Skinner
The workshop team at the Bridge Classic Cars Suffolk HQ have been working their way through our classic 1979 Ferrari 400, recommissioning each system of the car.
This time, Jon has been continuing his work on the underside of the Maranello masterpiece with the exhaust system. He has to make several new sections of the rear of the exhaust which involved cutting, slotting and clamping the replacement pieces to the back boxes, while also having to remake 1 of the original exhaust mounts.
Next up, Jon moved over to the offside of the classic Ferrari to get the exhaust and oil cooler sorted out. To begin with, Jon had to modify the mounts to add some extra clearance, before installing the exhaust system. With that now in place, Jon could fit up the rear anti-roll bar links before moving onto getting the gearbox oil cooler into place with some modifications to the hoses and pipework to get everything safely fit back into the car, which included sleeving some of the pipework in what could become contact areas over time as well as putting heatwrap on the pipes to protect them from the exhaust which run close by.
September 30, 2024 9:49 amPublished by Nick Skinner
Our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 has taken a massive step forward over the past week as the Bridge Classic Cars restoration team have reunited the repaired body back onto the refurbished and refinished chassis of this classic Aston Martin.
Rob, one of our technicians, has been heading up this phase of the project – He, along with several members of the team, carefully reunited the body and the chassis inch by inch for the final time before it heads off to the body and paint team to begin its journey back into colour.
September 30, 2024 9:27 amPublished by Nick Skinner
The workshop team here at the Bridge Classic Cars HQ have been continuing their work on getting the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 Drophead Coupe closer to getting back on the road – this time quite literally!
Rob, one of our restoration technicians, has been working on building up the front suspension of the rare sports car. Focusing on the right hand side, he has built up the front uprights after they had been stripped, inspected and refinished. These will be carefully wrapped up and put into storage awaiting their time to be fitted to the chassis of the car soon. Along side that, Rob has bench built the rear brakes which also await their moment to be reunited with the rest of the running gear on the car.
September 30, 2024 8:49 amPublished by Nick Skinner
From Molly’s weekend at the ‘Steam Back to the Forties’ event hosted by North Norfolk Railways to Jaguar C-Type Replicas, and a q&a about classic car auctions, this episode is full of a whole lot of automotive chat.
Filmed in The Classic Lounge, this week’s Torque Show involves Molly, Craig, Rob, Gordon, and John as they sit down over a cup of coffee to talk about what has been going on over the last week or so.
The new car will be revealed on Sunday 6th October 2024 at 13:00 BST and, I imagine, it’s going to be something as eye-catching as you’d expect!
All we know so far is that the W1 name has been chosen to celebrate McLaren’s “World Championship mindset” which explains why the 6th of October has been selected as the official reveal – this is the 50th anniversary of McLaren winning its first Formula 1 Constructor’s Championship in the same year that Emerson Fittipaldi won the World Drivers’ Championship with McLaren.
While filming episode 4 of the Bridge Classic Cars Torque Show, it seemed like a great opportunity to take some candid photos to show you how things work in putting a show like this together.
It may only be a 20 – 30-minute show that seems to run smoothly but, a lot of time and effort goes into making every single one. That being said, we always have fun and it’s a fantastic opportunity to talk to each other about all things automotive.
September 27, 2024 12:09 pmPublished by Rob Harvey
On Wednesday, 9th October, H&H Classics will host an auction at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford. At the company’s final Cambridgeshire auction of the year, there will be 160 classic, collectable, and performance cars going under the hammer. The total value of these vehicles is estimated at over £6.5 million, which is sure to attract plenty of attention from all those in attendance.
Craig and Gordon will be ready to bid as they are heading to Duxfrod for the auction. Excitingly, Me, Nick, and Molly will also be going to meet up with some of the H&H team before the auction for some filming!
Another exciting point about this particular auction is the range of cars on offer, with models spanning over 120 years of motoring history – from early 20th-century classics to more modern performance cars.
“It’s great to mark our final Duxford sale of the year with such an impressive collection of vehicles for sale. We always have fantastic and well attended auctions in Cambridgeshire, and with such an extensive and diverse offering, I expect October’s sale to be no different.”
James McWilliam, sales manager, H&H Classics
One of the most interesting lots is a rare 1957 Bentley S1 Continental Park Ward Drophead Coupé Adaption, which is expected to sell for somewhere between £300,000 and £400,000. While this is obviously a high ticket car, there are actually 23 cars being offered without reserve, so there’s a chance that the everyday auction goer can walk away with something special too.
Also available is a 1980 pre-production Lotus Esprit ‘Essex’ Turbo which was used to develop Active Suspension for Formula One and is thought to be the first vehicle in the world with this technology. It’s expected to sell for between £70,000 and £80,000 and will make a great addition to someone’s collection.
I recently spoke about a 1967 Jaguar Mark X 4.2, purchased by Madonna for her son Rocco which will be available to buy in the auction. It’s being offered without reserve and I’m always interested to see how much celebrity connections influence what people are prepared to pay for a car.
1957 Bentley S1 Continental Park Ward Image: H&H Classics1980 Lotus Esprit Essex Turbo Image: H&H Classics1967 Aston Martin DB6 Image: H&H Classics2001 Aston Martin Vanquish Image: H&H Classics1967 Jaguar Mark X Image: H&H Classics
1970 Ford Escort Mexico Image: H&H Classics 1930 Bugatti Type 46 Image: H&H Classics1962 Jaguar E-Type Image: H&H Classics1939 Frazer Nash BMW Image: H&H Classics1955 Austin Healey Image: H&H Classics
All of the cars will be available for viewing from midday on Tuesday, 8th October, and the auction itself begins at 1 pm the next day. I’m very much looking forward to seeing all of the vehicles up close, even if I’m not in a position to actually bid on any of them.
Dutch Barn Vodka was founded by Chris Fraser, in an old Dutch barn on Ellers Farm in North Yorkshire. After spotting unused apples in an abandoned orchard, Chris set about creating a high-quality vodka using British apples while also having sustainability at the forefront of his operations.
From a small pot still back then, Dutch Barn Vodka has now become a successful distillery, producing award-winning vodka that’s recognised not only for its taste but also for its positive environmental impact.
The distillery uses local water sourced from beneath the farm, and the brown glass bottles the vodka comes in are made from over 60% recycled glass – far more than the industry standard for clear bottles.
Plus, the distillery runs on renewable energy, reducing its carbon footprint even further.
Each batch of Dutch Barn Vodka is distilled a minimum of 70 times to make sure the finish is as smooth as possible. The apples are complemented by a small amount of potato spirit, adding a creamy texture that balances the natural fruitiness.
Ricky has taken on a creative leadership role within the brand, helping to share its message of quality, sustainability, and innovation. His aim is to bring Dutch Barn Vodka to a wider audience while ensuring that the company continues to produce exceptional, planet-friendly vodka.
The Classic Lounge
Next time you’re at Bridge Classic Cars, you will have to have a glass of Dutch Barn Vodka and try it for yourself. Ricky Gervais is also set to be just down the road from the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in Ipswich soon, so we will definitely be enjoying some of his vodka while he entertains our local friends.
UK car production saw a drop of 8.4% in August, according to recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Traditionally, August is a low-production month anyway as a result of summer shutdowns, and this year’s decrease only amounted to 3,781 fewer vehicles, with 41,271 cars coming off the assembly lines.
This decline aligns with the ongoing trend seen throughout the year, as factories reduce the output of existing models and prepare to produce new ones, particularly electric vehicles (EVs). This shift follows last year’s announcement of £24 billion in investment into the UK’s automotive industry.
Production of electrified vehicles, including battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models, took a big hit, dropping by 25.9%. This brought the share of electrified vehicles to 29.6% of total output. However, the fall is expected to be temporary as manufacturers transition to new models.
Domestic production experienced a steep decline of 19.8%. However, it’s worth noting that this figure is amplified by the typically low production volume in August, with most UK-made cars destined for export markets.
In comparison, exports decreased by 5.9%, largely driven by changes to models destined for the EU. The European Union remains the largest export market for UK-made cars, accounting for nearly half (49.8%) of exports. Other key markets include the US (17%), China (6.5%), Japan (5.1%), and Australia (4.4%), with notable growth in both the US and Japanese markets.
Year-to-date figures reveal an overall decline in UK car production of 8.5%, with a total of 522,823 units produced. Despite August’s domestic downturn, production for the UK market is up 12.3% for the year.
Hennessey, a hypercar and high-performance vehicle manufacturer in Texas, has just released its even more potent alternative to the Ford F-150 Raptor – the Hennessey Venom 800 F-150 and it is an absolute beast!
As there were so many customers who missed out on the Raptor R, Hennessey decided to create something new to subdue the disappointed petrolheads which led to the introduction of the Venom 800 F-150 which has some pretty impressive specifications.
Don’t be fooled by the size of this truck – it’s not just a very capable workhorse but it is also exceptionally fast. Producing 800 bhp at 6,200 rpm and 757 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm the Venom 800 can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and cover a quarter-mile in 11.7 seconds!
“Demand for powerfully designed and engineered Hennessey trucks continues to grow strongly. Our new Venom 800 F-150 is the super truck that our clients have been asking for. Highly capable both on- and off-road, it offers the perfect combination of performance, utility, and luxury.”
This Venom 800 features some pretty extensive upgrades including significant improvements to the suspension, wheels, tyres, and powertrain. Some of the most exciting upgrades are the addition of a 3.0-litre supercharger, upgraded air-to-water intercooler, high-performance fuel injection, and a high-flow air induction system. These have been paired with Hennessey’s proprietary engine management calibration, a dual-tip cat-back exhaust, and six-piston Brembo brakes to further beef up the Venom 800’s capabilities.
Hennessey Venom 800 – On And Off The Road
In addition to the sheer power of the Venom 800, the truck is also very capable off-road. It features a six-inch BDS suspension lift with FOX coilovers, improved rear shocks, 20-inch Hennessey 10-spoke wheels, and 35-inch off-road tyres. The tough front and rear ‘Venom’ bumpers are made of steel and come with integrated LED off-road lights in the front.
Despite its power, speed, and durability, the Venom 800 is also stylish and comfortable. It has a one-piece carbon fibre grille, electronic fold-out running boards, and illuminated Venom 800 badges on the front fenders. Inside, the truck has embroidered Hennessey script on the headrests, all-weather floor mats, American flag inserts, and a serial-numbered plaque.
For 2024, only 250 units of this limited-edition model will be available globally.
Back in 2015, the team behind Iconic Auctioneers (previously known as Silverstone Auctions), formed Classic Car Auctions (CCA). The company has always operated independently of its sister company and has specialised in Everyman Classics. However, things are changing and the two companies are about to merge with Iconic Auctioneers being the name for the combined companies.
One of our visits to CCAOne of our visits to CCAOne of our visits to CCAOne of our visits to CCA
The Classic Car Sale being hosted by CCA on September 28, 2024, at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, will be the final auction held under the Classic Car Auctions Ltd. name. From October, CCA will officially be acquired by Iconic Auctioneers Ltd, merging the two companies into one.
Despite the acquisition, the team behind Classic Car Auctions will remain the same, and the auctions will continue to be hosted at many of their familiar venues. However, there will be a fresh look. The auctions will be rebranded as The Classic Sales by Iconic Auctioneers, with a new logo and branding to match.
“Most of our customers know that CCA and IA are sister companies, so bringing them together as one company makes sense, but more importantly it will significantly enhance the exposure of the CCA cars on the Iconic Auctioneers website, which is a much busier site. It will also allow buyers to search for specific marques across all our sales in one place. As well as offer customers a wider range of services including Iconic Auctioneers online, motorcycle, automobilia and private sales.”
Rob Hubbard, Managing Director of Iconic Auctioneers
On this website, you’ll be able to browse upcoming and past Classic Sales, along with other auctions offered by Iconic Auctioneers. The site will use a colour-coding system to differentiate the sales – Classic Sales will have a burgundy sidebar and feature the new CCA logo, while Iconic Auctioneers sales will display a blue sidebar with their IA logo.
This updated branding will also be reflected on the company’s social media channels and advertisements.
We very often attend auctions hosted by both companies so we are excited to see what the future holds now they are becoming one!
Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group have joined forces to try to advance hydrogen mobility by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Korea-Czech Business Summit, held in Prague on September 20th, 2024. This collaboration aims to promote the adoption of hydrogen technology in the transportation sector, contributing to a more sustainable future for the automotive industry.
The signing ceremony featured Ken Ramírez, Executive Vice President of Global Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business at Hyundai Motor Company, and Petr Novotný, CEO of Škoda Group. Both companies pledged their commitment to exploring hydrogen fuel cell systems and energy-efficient solutions for future mobility projects.
“We believe that hydrogen, alongside energy-efficient solutions, will play an essential role in transforming mobility for a more sustainable future. Our collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company aims at enabling us to look beyond national borders and explore wider markets where these technologies can have a larger impact. By working together, we can bring innovative, eco-friendly solutions to the global mobility ecosystem, advancing cleaner energy in the areas where it’s needed most,”
Petr Novotný, CEO of Škoda Group.
Both companies share the belief that hydrogen will play a crucial role in achieving a sustainable society, particularly within the transportation sector. Hyundai will provide its expertise in hydrogen fuel cell systems and technology to accelerate eco-friendly mobility in markets where Škoda operates, including the Czech Republic.
Beyond mobility, the companies will also investigate the potential applications of hydrogen technology in other sectors. Hyundai’s global experience in hydrogen applications positions it to support broader energy transitions. Through this partnership, both Hyundai and Škoda aim to create a strong hydrogen ecosystem.
“Our partnership with Škoda Group aims to accelerate hydrogen adoption, which would contribute to the advancement of hydrogen technology and carbon neutrality across global markets, including the Czech Republic. Together with Škoda Group, we strive to lead the rapidly growing hydrogen businesses by creating positive synergies between our fuel cell technology and Škoda Group’s mobility products and projects.”
Ken Ramírez, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business, Hyundai Motor Company
Hyundai Motor Company and Škoda Group sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to commence collaboration on establishing a hydrogen mobility ecosystem (Source Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry)
Molly, Craig and Rob sat down at the Bridge Classic Cars Classic Lounge to go through all the exciting things which have been happening at our Suffolk HQ this week.
We speak about our latest competition car, which we’re very excited to share with you, our 1970 Jaguar E-Type which could be yours for less than a cup of coffee! And generally about the E-Type and going on road trips with classics.
The team talk about our amazing time at the International Autojumble thanks to our friends at the Beaulieu National Motor Museum and the incredible display they have in their wonderfully curated museum – and the results of our automotive interior design challenge where Rob & Nick were challenged by Molly to find some pieces for our Members Club HQ, The Classic Lounge.
We look back on this week’s competition winners, who won our 1959 Ford Zephyr and Frederique Constant Runabout Watch Set.
A 1974 Triumph Spitfire recently came into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop so that the team could assess and inspect it for any potential future work.
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