On This Day In History: The Autobahn Opens
May 19, 2023
On May 19th 1935, the first section of the now-famous Autobahn opened. This first section was around 14 miles long and was opened by Adolf
car news
Top Gear Filming Paused
March 24, 2023
The BBC has announced that filming of series 34 of Top Gear has been halted following Freddie Flintoff’s crash back in December. The accident happened
Out & About – Flying Car in London
April 25, 2022
Over this past weekend, our director Craig was in central London and spotted this amazing car on the street. This is a PAL-V. A sign
Science Fiction Becomes Reality: Flying Cars Are On The Horizon
June 30, 2021
The future has arrived. A prototype of a flying car just completed it 142nd successful test flight which was a 35minute journey between two Slovakian
Are Restomods The Future Of Classic Cars?
May 28, 2021
Restomodding is the act of restoring a classic vehicle by adding in modern technology and subtle aesthetic changes to enhance the car’s drive. It’s a
Jessica Hawkins Signed As F1 Aston Martin Driver Ambassador
May 19, 2021
W Series and Stunt driver, Jessica Hawkins has been signed as an F1 Aston Martin Driver Ambassador, announced today. Hawkins has said about the announcement;
Land Rover and IFRC Highlight Importance Of Community Aid Units In New Film Series – Premier Tonight
May 5, 2021
Land Rover and IFRC’s new short film series highlights the importance local humanitarian aid.
Top Gear Presenters Test Out Their Dad’s Classics
March 17, 2021
On Sunday Top Gear Fans were treated to the return of the infamous BBC Car show, Top Gear and as ever, it did not disappoint.
Couple Builds Snow Ferarri
February 25, 2021
We all remember building snowmen and making snow angels as children in the snow but few of us can claim we’ve built a snow car.
Top Tips For Driving In The Snow
February 8, 2021
With arctic conditions sweeping across East Anglia, those without 4×4’s or tractors might be wondering how to get to work or the shops. The short
Jeep’s 80th Anniversary: From Willy’s To Wrangler
February 1, 2021
With 2021 marking Jeep’s 80th anniversary, they’re releasing special edition versions of the Renegade and Wrangler SUVs. The unique editions will come with an “80th Anniversary” badging, unique 18-inch
New Jobs At Norfolk Lotus
January 27, 2021
With the launch of Lotus’ new Type 131, the company are investing £100m into its state of the art facilities in Norwich. Along with the
Rolls Royce’s new Electric Venture
January 26, 2021
The silver lady may soon be totally electric powered in the form of a possible new model, the Silent Shadow. Rolls Royce has recently released
Electric Forecourt Opens In Essex
January 4, 2021
The UK’s first all-electric car charging forecourt opened in Essex in December 2020. It comes equipped with super-fast wifi and a selection of shops such
Fernando Alonso’s Sensational Demo Lap
December 14, 2020
Fernando Alonso wowed audiences this weekend with his demonstration lap in his 2005 R25 v10 Formula 1 car that won him the 2005 world championship.
On This Day In History: The Autobahn Opens
May 19, 2023
On May 19th 1935, the first section of the now-famous Autobahn opened. This first section was around 14 miles long and was opened by Adolf Hitler. Within just a few years, the Autobahn would expand to more than 7000 miles and was used for political gain for the Nazis, as well as demonstrating the high levels of engineering that were possible in Germany.
Today, the Autobahn is one of the most famous and desired roads in the world. Even though we are 88 years removed from the first opening, the road is still just as relevant throughout the automotive world as it was back in 1935.
The Beginning Of The Autobahn
The concept of the Autobahn was actually born in the 1920s, a time when automobiles were becoming more prevalent in German society. The idea at the time was to create a network of high-speed roads that would connect major cities and regions, enabling fast and efficient transportation for both people and goods.
The Autobahn has captured the attention of drivers right from the start. Stretching across the picturesque landscapes of Germany, it is a true demonstration of precision engineering, efficiency, and speed. With its unique characteristics and rich history, the Autobahn has become an icon of German culture and a source of interest from all over the world.
Unlimited Speed
Probably the most defining feature of the Autobahn is the lack of a general speed limit on many of its sections. While there are recommended speed limits, and certain areas where speed restrictions are in place for safety reasons, a large part of the Autobahn allows drivers to unleash the full potential of their vehicles. Many people with a passion for cars see the Autobahn as one of the best driving experiences and travel great distances to drive on it.
Despite there not being a general speed limit, the Autobahn is an extremely well-designed and regulated road system. With multiple lanes, advanced traffic management systems, and strict driving rules, drivers are expected to exercise caution, follow traffic regulations, and respect the rights and safety of other road users. This emphasis on discipline and following the rules is what allows the Autobahn to allow high-speed driving.
Autobahn Safety
Safety has always been a big concern on the Autobahn so there are a range of safety measures in place to ensure the road is as safe as possible. There are crash barriers, intelligent traffic monitoring systems, and regular maintenance procedures. Another important factor is that Germany has a highly effective driver education and licensing system, which helps develop and promote a culture of responsible driving.
The Driving Experience
Speed and efficiency are clearly the main appeal of the Autobahn, however, it is hard to ignore the stunning natural beauty surrounding it. The Autobahn goes through quite a range of landscapes, from rolling countryside to dense forests and mountainous regions too.
The Autobahn’s impact extends beyond Germany’s borders as it has served as a model for multiple road systems globally. The idea of high-speed, well-maintained motorways has become a big part of modern projects, and the Autobahn’s success has certainly influenced transport policies in many countries.
The Future Of The Autobahn
As loved as the Autobahn is by drivers, environmental concerns, such as increased carbon emissions, have caused debates about the sustainability of unlimited speed. Some people argue that speed limits should be introduced to reduce the ecological impact and further enhance road safety. The counter-argument to this is that the Autobahn’s status as a symbol of freedom and driving pleasure should be something that is maintained and protected.
In recent years, Germany has taken steps to address these concerns and some sections of the Autobahn now have speed limits. This is a sort of compromise between the desire for speed and the need for environmental responsibility.
A Road For Drivers
Regardless of its connections to Hitler and any potential environmental impact, the Autobahn has to be recognised as a feat of incredible engineering. It offers drivers the opportunity to experience driving at speeds that they wouldn’t normally be able to and to truly experience the performance of their vehicles.
The debate of sustainability and unlimited speed will likely continue but, it’s hard to deny that the Autobahn has had a monumental impact on the automotive world and, whatever the future holds, it will always be an iconic driving experience.
Top Gear Filming Paused
March 24, 2023
The BBC has announced that filming of series 34 of Top Gear has been halted following Freddie Flintoff’s crash back in December. The accident happened while Freddie was driving a Morgan Super 3 which is an open-top 3-wheeled sports car.
Although this doesn’t mean Top Gear is no more, it certainly indicates that a likely outcome of the situation is the program no longer being made. The BBC has said that a final decision on how best to continue will be made later in the year.
Freddie was hospitalised after the accident and is reported to have suffered broken ribs and facial injuries. The show has been in the news several times over the years due to presenters getting injured – most notably, former presenter Richard Hammond’s 2006 crash while driving a jet-powered car at around 300mph. Richard suffered a frontal lobe brain injury and was in a coma before eventually recovering. However, the TV personality has indicated that he still suffers some side effects from the injuries he sustained in the accident.
A Health and Safety review will take place before any final plans are made but it would appear that something needs to change to prevent even more serious incidents from occurring.
Top Gear has been an incredibly popular show for the BBC and has versions of it made in countries all over the world. If it does indeed end up being axed, it would likely be a tough decision for the broadcaster to make.
In a statement, the BBC said “Under the circumstances, we feel it would be inappropriate to resume making series 34.”
“We have sincerely apologised to Freddie and will continue to support him with his recovery.”
“We understand this will be disappointing for fans, but it is the right thing to do, and we’ll make a judgement about how best to continue later this year.”
It would be a shame for many people if this does prove to be the end for Top Gear. Hopefully, an alternative solution can be found but, for now, at least, Top Gear is on hold indefinitely.
Out & About – Flying Car in London
April 25, 2022
Over this past weekend, our director Craig was in central London and spotted this amazing car on the street.
This is a PAL-V. A sign of the future, the PAL-V is an early flying car that by the looks of things we have researched actually seems to work! It’s incredible to see where the future of the automotive world is heading and the solutions which forward-thinking companies are coming up with.
Science Fiction Becomes Reality: Flying Cars Are On The Horizon
June 30, 2021
The future has arrived. A prototype of a flying car just completed it 142nd successful test flight which was a 35minute journey between two Slovakian cities.
AirCar is a hybrid vehicle designed to be both driven on the roads and flown however it does need a runway to take off. Its able to fly about 600 miles and can transform into an aircraft in just under 3 minutes.
Klein Vision, who have developed have said that the BMW powered vehicle can get to a maximum cruising speed of 118mph thanks to its 160hp engine.
Two people can ride in the AirCar as long as the total weight is under 200kg.
Klein said that the recent test flight has turned ‘science fiction into a reality’ with experts predicting flying cars will be on the market as soon as 2030.
Are Restomods The Future Of Classic Cars?
May 28, 2021
Restomodding is the act of restoring a classic vehicle by adding in modern technology and subtle aesthetic changes to enhance the car’s drive. It’s a controversial topic in the classic car industry as on one hand, it gives people the chance to enjoy classics without the hassle of outdates and old mechanics and in many cases makes them faster and easier to drive, however many argue that it destroys the classic car and removes what makes it iconic – which is the time piece mechanics.
Although restomods often come with a heavy price tags, it does allow drivers to not only enjoy a more accessible classic but also gives room to a highly customable vehicle.
The middle ground can be found in cars such as the brand new Morgan Plus Fours and Nissan Figaro‘s which retain the original classic styling but are being produced with today’s technology, creating an original classic with the modern luxuries.
Both restomods and modern remakes like Morgan’s still come with controversy with many classic car enthusiasts debating the authenticity of these new classics and arguing that part of the allure of a classic is in its mechanics and the way it drives.
“We compare it to an old federation house, or terrace house – you want one of these pretty old houses but you also want air-conditioning and internet and good plumbing.” says the owner of Modern Classic Cars in the Sydney suburb of Padstow.
The most popular restomod company is Singer, a USA based company that specialises in air-cooled Porsche 911s. David Brown Automotive got its fame for creating the Mini Remastered series.
Our stunning 1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Race Replica is a restomod that packs a punch. Still with its original E-Type styling, we’ve re-designed it to give more power and speed as well as custom styling.
This of course then leads you down the rabbit hole of Electric conversions, rally conversions and hot rods. There are many things you can do with a classic and still enjoy them but where is the line drawn between a classic and a vintage style kit car? At the end of the day, here at Bridge, we understand it is the personal value of the car that means the most and the memories it allows you to have.
You can find more restomod inspiration here.
Jessica Hawkins Signed As F1 Aston Martin Driver Ambassador
May 19, 2021
W Series and Stunt driver, Jessica Hawkins has been signed as an F1 Aston Martin Driver Ambassador, announced today.
Hawkins has said about the announcement; “I am incredibly excited to be joining Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team as its new driver ambassador, and I am really looking forward to working with Lance Stroll, Sebastian Vettel, Nico Hülkenberg and the rest of the team. In fact, although it will surely be a hell of a lot of hard work, it is a dream come true for me. Besides, I am definitely not afraid of hard work.
I also want to pay tribute and say thank you to W Series, which is a brilliant championship without which I would simply never have got this unbelievable chance to work within such a great Formula One team.
I would particularly like to say a big thanks to W Series’ three most senior people, Sean Wadsworth, Catherine Bond Muir and Dave Ryan. Without their amazing efforts to put W Series on the motorsport map in such a brilliant way and in such a short time, female drivers like me would never have found our way onto the radar screens of the likes of Otmar Szafnauer, to whom I should also say a massive thank you.”
Jessica Hawkins stands as a fantastic representative and athlete for women in the sport as she strives to increase the diversity of the sport.
Read more here.
Land Rover and IFRC Highlight Importance Of Community Aid Units In New Film Series – Premier Tonight
May 5, 2021
Land Rover and IFRC have one of the longest corporate/humanitarian relationships. Their new short film series highlights the importance of this partnership and the work local community units carry out.
We’re all used to seeing Police, Traffic Officers, Mountain Rescue and the occasional Ambulance Land Rover, but what many people may not realise is that the use of Land Rovers in local community response units, such as emergency responses to humanitarian aid, is vital to their functioning.
Land Rover and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are set to release a series of short films shot on GoPro’s by volunteers in the Red Cross to show their work. Land Rover supply vehicles to response teams to help reach people across the world.
Land Rover and IFRC have worked together for 66 years and form one of the longest running corporate/humanitarian relationships. Throughout this partnership, Land Rover have supplied vehicles and offered experience and expertise. No other automotive company is better suited to the work IFRC do, which often leads workers to hard to reach corners of the world, places where off-road vehicles are vital.
The films will premiere on IFRC’s Facebook Live alongside a panel discussion on the future of crisis response. The first film premiers tonight.
We have seen during this year, like no other, that the future of emergency response is local. Communities have gone above and beyond to support each other and their most vulnerable people.
However, the capacity to respond locally varies vastly by country and area. International organisations like ours need to work with local communities leveraging our National Societies and put their expertise and resources towards strengthening local capacity and addressing inequality.
NENA STOILJKOVIC
IFRC UNDER SECRETARY GENERAL FOR GLOBAL RELATIONS, HUMANITARIAN DIPLOMACY AND DIGITALIZATION
Each film focuses on “life-changing moments of humanity and crisis, from the streets of Italy, where homeless people are more vulnerable than ever, to the communities still rebuilding their lives after the devastating Australian bushfires in 2020. Local teams also teach life-saving skills to people in remote Mexican communities and support those hit hardest by coronavirus in the UK.”
This last year has been exceptionally challenging for people all over the world and Land Rover is prouder than ever to work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
These films capture the commitment of the IFRC’s staff and volunteers and the vital importance of going above and beyond to support people at a local level.
FINBAR MCFALL
LAND ROVER BRAND DIRECTOR
Top Gear Presenters Test Out Their Dad’s Classics
March 17, 2021
On Sunday Top Gear Fans were treated to the return of the infamous BBC Car show, Top Gear and as ever, it did not disappoint. Chris Harris, Freddie Flintoff and Paddy McGuinness take on a course driving their dad’s cars.
Tune in next Sunday for a 007 themed episode!
Dads love a challenging reverse 😂
— Top Gear (@BBC_TopGear) March 15, 2021
Miss last night's #TopGear? Watch in full on @BBCiPlayer at https://t.co/dZVyPbevLI pic.twitter.com/gsCebSMkTr
Freddie Flintoff on: his Dad's Ford Cortina.
— Top Gear (@BBC_TopGear) March 16, 2021
Following Sunday's film where the boys drove their dads' cars, @flintoff11 reflects on what it was like getting behind the wheel of his old man's Ford Cortina…
Catch the full film on @BBCiPlayer now https://t.co/dZVyPbw7ai pic.twitter.com/ymq37YrPiF
This episode might be about dads’ cars, but today is Mother’s Day. So for all the mums out there, here’s a bit of eye candy for you. Sorry about the three scruffs getting in the way… #TopGear pic.twitter.com/6DqlF7cYFY
— Top Gear (@BBC_TopGear) March 14, 2021
Check out some photos from Sunday’s episode here.
You can watch the episode here.
Take a look at the rest of the Top Gear team’s dad cars: www.topgear.com/car-news/retro/memories-topgearcoms-parents-cars
Couple Builds Snow Ferarri
February 25, 2021
We all remember building snowmen and making snow angels as children in the snow but few of us can claim we’ve built a snow car.
A husband and wife from Lithuania decided to re-create a Ferrari LaFerrari out of snow. Every detail was covered from the colour (done in an environmentally friendly paint) to the aerodynamic shape. It took two days of dedicated craftmanship from the couple to create the iconic red beast. At the end of the masterpiece, the wife, Donata Bugiene, said “Now no one can deny that there is a Ferrari in our yard.”
The Ferrari is a real size, made to the dimensions of the original Ferrari LaFerrari,” said Bugiene.
The life-size replica of Ferrari’s LaFerrari supercar (image taken Jan. 31, 2021. (Photo credit: Donata Bugiene)
Top Tips For Driving In The Snow
February 8, 2021
With arctic conditions sweeping across East Anglia, those without 4×4’s or tractors might be wondering how to get to work or the shops. The short and easy answer is to stay at home and don’t venture out if you’re unsure, but for many, that might not be an option. Here are some tips for driving in the snow (according to RAC).
Before leaving:
Plan your journey to use only main roads that are likely to be gritted. Busier roads are also less likely to be as dangerous as back roads will be driven on less and therefore hold more snow. Leave plenty of time to de-ice the car and check your tyres. Always ensure you have a shovel, warm layers, appropriate shoes and a high-vis vest in the boot in case you break down.
When driving:
- Accelerate slowly, use low revs and change to higher gears quickly
- Some vehicles have ‘winter mode’ but if yours doesnt, taking off in second gear can reduce wheel spin.
- Leave plenty of stopping space
- If you start to skid, gently steer your car in the direction of the skid. For example, if the rear of the car is skidding to the left, turn your wheel to the left. Do not put your foot on the brake or accelerator, and do not take your hands off the steering wheel.
- If visibility is poor, turn on your fog lights.
- If roads have not been gritted, try to avoid driving in other cars tyre tracks as compacted snow is likely to be icier than fresh snow.
- Use the pedals and steer smoothly. Quick movements are more likely to increase the possibility of skidding.
If you do have to frequently drive in snow conditions, ensuring that your car is regularly cleaned reduces the possibility of the salt causing corrosion damage to your car.
You can see more about driving in deep snow, snow tyres and snow chains here.
Jeep’s 80th Anniversary: From Willy’s To Wrangler
February 1, 2021
With 2021 marking Jeep’s 80th anniversary, they’re releasing special edition versions of the Renegade and Wrangler SUVs. The unique editions will come with an “80th Anniversary” badging, unique 18-inch alloy wheels and Granite Crystal paint.
Jeep forged their way into the automobile world in the height of world war two. Jeeps were designed to be nimble and versatile on the battlefield, tackling any terrain and light enough to be pushed when stuck. Although there are many versions of the founding story of Jeep, there are a few facts that remain trusted.
The American Military put out a request to American automobile designers to come up with an appropriate vehicle however the only responses they received were from two, small companies: Willys-Overland Motor Co and Bantam Car Co. However the American Military had it’s concerned so it invited Ford Motors to join the assembly.
All companies produced a vehicle that was intended to meet the specifications however both fell short in varying aspects. The Willys Quad had a powerful 60-hp Go Devil four-cylinder engine which put it head and shoulders above the other in terms of power. The Ford Pygmy unique and advanced craftsmanship, as it was designed with a flat hood and flat fenders that the War Department saw as useful and intuitive features. Bantam, who has previously provided a vehicle design that subsequently failed, produced an updated design that became the lightest and most fuel-efficient of the three.
In 1941, Willys-Overland Motor Co. received their first contract to produce the Willys MB for the American military that featured design aspects from each contribution. A second contract was then awarded to Ford to keep up with the demand. Bantam was given a contract to build trailers used alongside the Jeeps.
After the war, the designs were adapted for civilian use, and so the Jeep franchise grew but not without gaining the ‘Jeep Curse’ as it chewed up and spat out several owners over its long history.
Back in 2018, in the midst of the Beast From The East, we worked on a 1944 Ford GPW Willys’ Jeep that had an issue with a valve stuck open. This model was one of the original American Military Jeeps and an absolute pleasure to work on. Even at 77 years old, nothing could stop this little Jeep.
New Jobs At Norfolk Lotus
January 27, 2021
With the launch of Lotus’ new Type 131, the company are investing £100m into its state of the art facilities in Norwich. Along with the major financial investment, Lotus are also opening up 250 new jobs.
With the UK unemployment rate rising to 5% as of the latest ONS (Office Of National Statistics) figures.
CEO, Phil Popham said: “Despite the continuing global challenges, Lotus has emerged from 2020 strong and on track.”
The jobs will be in engineering and manufacturing for Lotus Cars and Lotus Engineering, which is due to open in Warwick later this year.
This year also marks the death of the Elise, which began production in 1995. Exige and Evora models are also due to be cut later this year too.
You can view their press release here.
Rolls Royce’s new Electric Venture
January 26, 2021
The silver lady may soon be totally electric powered in the form of a possible new model, the Silent Shadow.
Rolls Royce has recently released the prototype image of its new all-electric car. Whilst other brands have scrambled to produce an electric vehicle, Rolls Royce seems to have been playing it slow and steady. The new EV design may have a futuristic utopian flare but Rolls Royce has kept their signature royal boxy elegance.
This stunning Rolls Royce is set to be released to the public in 2022 and will mark the 2020’s with a flare of utopian opulence.
You can see more here
Electric Forecourt Opens In Essex
January 4, 2021
The UK’s first all-electric car charging forecourt opened in Essex in December 2020. It comes equipped with super-fast wifi and a selection of shops such as WHSmith and cafes to keep drivers entertained whilst they recharge their vehicle.
The forecourt offers 350kW of charging power which is enough to top up 200 miles in 20 minutes. There is space for 36 cars to be charging at the same time too, so no chance of a shortage of stations.
Gridserve, the company who has built the forecourt hopes to build more than 100 sites such as this in the next 5 years. The Braintree site is powered by clean energy from one of the UK’s first subsidy-free solar farms at Clayhill in Bedfordshire as well as overhead solar canopies.
“As we accelerate towards cleaner and greener transport, I’m delighted to see the future of service stations being brought to life with the opening of the UK’s first all-electric forecourt.” Rachel Maclean, Transport Minister commented.
You can see the blog about our friends from Ransome Van Centre who visited it, here.
Fernando Alonso’s Sensational Demo Lap
December 14, 2020
Fernando Alonso wowed audiences this weekend with his demonstration lap in his 2005 R25 v10 Formula 1 car that won him the 2005 world championship.
Viewers who found the weekends race otherwise fairly tame counted Alonso’s appearance as the highlight of their F1 experience.
2005 was the last era of V10 before Formula 1 moved to the more efficient Turbo Charged V8’s. The newer V8 engines are quieter, smaller and more efficient than their raucous 2005 predecessors however they don’t carry the same iconic roar.
Alonso suggested that the screaming v10 engine is what modern F1 is missing, as it evokes such emotions with its sound that the new machinery cannot match.
You can see the video here.
“It is something that we are missing honestly,” Alonso said after his lap.
“I think not only the fans, everyone in the paddock, we miss the sound. We miss the Formula 1 that we got in love with when we were kids and we were watching television.
“So now, to witness this car at this circuit, I think it was pretty special for everyone in the paddock.”
Alonso’s demonstration lap stood as a powerful sign off for the last race of the season. In a tweet on Saturday, Alonso expressed his excitement for the car and for his return with newly re-named Renault next year.
