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Rolls-Royce Landspeed Collection honours man who set 3 world land-speed records

Rolls-Royce has been associated with world speed records on both land and water for more than a century. But while the exploits of people like Sir Malcolm Campbell are well documented and widely known, there is one British hero who set records using Rolls-Royce engines who has been largely overlooked by history. Captain George Eyston was his name and his extraordinary car, called Thunderbolt, set 3 world land-speed records at the Bonnevile Salt Flats in the American state of Utah.

Eyston was among the first British racers to travel to the Bonneville Salt Flats when he first went there in 1935. He set new 24-hour and 48-hour endurance speed records, and subsequently received the Segrave Trophy, awarded to ‘the British national who demonstrates Outstanding Skill, Courage and Initiative on Land, Water and in the Air’.

7-tonne record-breaker
In 1937, he returned to the Flats and went on to set the 3 world land-speed records with the Thunderbolt. This extraordinary machine had 3 axles, 8 wheels and weighed 7 tonnes, earning it monikers such as ‘behemoth’ and ‘leviathan’ in contemporary reports. And that was even with the body being made from aluminium and, in its original form, had a blunt, heavyset profile topped with a large triangular tailfin.

The Thunderbolt was powered by a pair of Rolls-Royce R supercharged 37-litre, V-12 aero engines, each producing well over 2,000 horsepower. Less than 20 of these engines were ever made; so rare were they that the Thunderbolt’s engines had actually been used earlier in the Schneider Trophy-winning Supermarine S6.B seaplane that would lay the foundations for the legendary Spitfire fighter aircraft of World War II.

Celebrating the dauntless, fearless, pioneering spirit
In 2021, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has created The Landspeed Collection, consisting of both the Wraith and Dawn Black Badge, to celebrate that dauntless, fearless, pioneering spirit of Captain Eyston. It also has strong aesthetic links to the unique, otherworldly landscape of the Bonneville Salt Flats where the Thunderbolt made him, albeit briefly, the fastest man on Earth.

The Collection Car duo is presented in a specially created two-tone finish, which marries Black Diamond Metallic with a new Bespoke colour, Bonneville Blue. This specially developed hue bears particular significance to the Collection, with a colour that transitions under sunlight from light blue to silver, illustrating the reflections of both the vast sky over Bonneville and the crisp salt flats on the Thunderbolt’s aluminium body.

While rocketing over the Flats, Eyston had to hold the car on a very precise course – to deviate even slightly would be disastrous at the extreme speeds. To help him guide the car, his team painted darkened track lines on the salt surface for Eyston to follow – effectively his sole means of keeping the Thunderbolt straight at over 560 km/h.

This simple yet ingenious idea is recalled in the Landspeed Collection by a subtly perforated dark detail in the upper-centre of the steering wheel, which continues through the centre-line of the driver’s seat, accentuating the driver-focused appeal of the two cars.

The Bonneville Salt Flats may appear smooth but, in fact, they’re seamed with tiny fissures. This distinctive texture is perfectly reproduced, digitally retraced from the surface itself, in the wooden veneer of Landspeed Collection’s fascia and console lids.

Environmental references in the cabin
The interior references continue with the Thunderbolt’s unique silhouette, and the records it achieved, depicted on the polished, anodised aluminium surface of the Landspeed Collection’s front tunnel. The Dawn Landspeed additionally celebrates Eyston’s vision with the outline of the Silver Island mountains, which dominate the Bonneville horizon, engraved on the upper ‘waterfall’ between the rear seats.

According to the history books, Eyston’s third and final land-speed record of 357.497 mph (575.57 km/h) stood for 341 days. In the new Collection Cars, it is commemorated for all time, engraved into the housing of the dashboard clock alongside the name ‘Bonneville’, in homage to where the record was set.

Clock recalls a solution for visibility
The Thunderbolt was originally left unpainted, which caused an unexpected problem. During the first record attempts, the photo-electric timing equipment was unable to detect the polished aluminium body against the searing white of the Salt Flats’ surface, making accurate timing impossible. Eyston’s brilliantly simple solution was to paint a large black arrow with a yellow circle on the side, to heighten visibility when travelling at great speed.

Bright yellow accents throughout the Landspeed Collection, including two-tone yellow and black bumper inserts, pay tribute to this vision. The clock’s design recounts this theme. Based on the instrument dials from the Thunderbolt, with yellow and black details, black-tipped hands are inspired by the arrows painted on the original car’s exterior.

The night sky on on September 16, 1938
The allure of the Bonneville Salt Flats draws not only record-breakers, but astronomers, too. Stargazers prize this vast, unpopulated wilderness for its exceptionally dark night skies, which create perfect conditions unspoiled by artificial light.

In the Wraith Landspeed, the Starlight Headliner perfectly recreates the heavens as they appeared over the Flats on September 16, 1938, the date on which Eyston and his Thunderbolt set their third and final world land-speed record. The constellations are precisely marked using 2,117 individually placed fibreoptic ‘stars’, the largest number of stars in a Rolls-Royce Wraith Starlight Headliner ever featured.

Eyston’s military honours are marked in both the Wraith and Dawn Landspeed with a subtle detail in the driver’s door, made in the same Grosgrain weave silk and colours to match the original medal ribbons. The armrests on both the passenger side and below the ribbon detail are specially padded to give them the comfortable ‘club armchair’ quality that Eyston favoured in his driving seats, much to the amusement of his fellow racers.

Production of Landspeed Collection cars is strictly limited to just 25 units of the Dawn and 35 of the Wraith, all of which have already been reserved by customers.

The Starlight Headliner – Bringing the starry sky inside a Rolls-Royce

BRABUS 900 Rocket Edition – the SUV that can demoralize the driver of a supercar

Although there are high-performance SUVs, a SUV that can demoralize the driver of a supercar seems unlikely – unless it’s the BRABUS 900 Rocket Edition. With a bigger engine that boosts output to 888 bhp and 1,250 Nm, this ‘Godfather of SUVs’ (as a former senior executive in Mercedes-Benz Malaysia referred to it) can go from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.7 seconds and if not because of the limiter, it would go beyond 280 km/h.

Enlarged V8 engine
The Rocket 900 is the latest creation from the German tuner which specialises in Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG models, extending their performance potential significantly. With the Rocket 900, they have given the current Mercedes-AMG G 63 SUV a twin-turbo V8 engine with an increased displacement of 4407 cc from the standard 3982 cc.

This involved more than enlarging the cylinder bores to 84 mm and installing appropriately sized forged pistons. A special precision-balanced billet crankshaft together with likewise forged high-performance connecting rods had also to be produced, which increases the stroke to 100 mm.

The dual turbocharging system, developed by BRABUS has a larger compressor unit and a special core assembly with reinforced axial bearings produce a maximum boost pressure of 1.4 bar. Two BRABUS BoostXtra valves provide an exciting blow-off noise when lifting off the throttle. For better breathing and more air intake, a RAM-AIR system is integrated into the exposed carbonfibre radiator grille.

There are also larger downpipes, and the final link in the chain of modified components is the stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with actively controlled exhaust valves for changing the exhaust note. This switches between a throaty V8 sound in Sport mode and a discreet whisper in ‘Coming Home’ mode at the touch of a button.

WIDESTAR package adds 100 mm width
Apart from the impressive technical aspects, the new WIDESTAR widebody package makes the imposing SUV more intimidating, adding 100 mm to the overall width. Many elements have exposed carbonfibre with an emphatically sporty rear wing on the roof, and a diffuser under the rear end. Appropriate paint finishes such as Stealth Gray or Signature Black have been specially developed for the Rocket 900.

Exclusive for this model are newly designed Monoblock Z 24-inch hi-tech forged wheels with BRABUS Aero Discs made of exposed carbonfibre, 10J in front and 12J behind. They are fitted with extremely wide 24-inch high-performance ZR-rated street tyres up to a size of 355/25 on the rear axle.

The chassis engineers developed the new BRABUS RideControl aluminium coil-over suspension specifically for this 2,560-kg model. The front-axle struts and rear-axle shock absorbers with integrated heat sinks are milled from solid stock, allowing height variation of up to 45 mm, with damping also adjustable.

Non-nonsense image in cabin
The cabin also mirrors the aggressive no-nonsense image of the exterior. Black leather with colour-contrasting as well as decorative stitching is used for upholstery. In addition to bucket seats front and rear, there’s a centre console with retractable tables in the rear. Two cupholders cool or warm the drinks of the rear passengers and for keeping the drinks cold, there’s a refrigerated compartment as well.

Only 25 units for sale
BRABUS will make on 25 units of the Rocket 900, with the first 10 vehicles to be delivered to their owners by the end of this year. The remainder will be completed during 2022. Ex-factory, each unit costs 480,059 euros (about RM2.4 million) but as each customer will almost certainly personalise his or her SUV, the final price would be higher.

The other side of the BRABUS business – armoured SUVs

2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport is all about top speed

With its digital unveiling of the Chiron Super Sport recently, Bugatti continues its development of elegant, comfortable, and ultra high-performance hyper sportscars. The new member of the Chiron family is the essence of what the engineers have learned and developed in recent years to create the ultimate Grand Tourer.

The Chiron Super Sport embodies a part of Bugatti’s broad spectrum of performance – a counterpart to the Chiron Pur Sport, which was made for cornering and lateral agility. It has been designed for speed, adopting a new vehicle design with optimized aerodynamics for the streamlined bodywork. From the front splitter to the rear diffuser, every centimetre of its skin is designed for top speed.

Superlative aerodynamic performance
At speeds over 420 km/h, a vehicle must offer sufficient downforce alongside minimal drag. “Our aim was to give the vehicle a neutral set-up at its top speed while also giving it as streamlined a shape as possible.” explained Frank Heyl, Deputy Design Director at Bugatti. “The uplift forces exerted on the bodywork at 440 km/h are immense. The body of the Chiron Super Sport generates massive downforce to counter this uplift and perfectly balance the forces.”

“The design process was therefore in particular about achieving aerodynamic efficiency,” Heyl continued. “The Chiron Super Sport’s extended rear, which is known as a long tail, gives it new proportions and very distinctive aesthetics.”

For aerodynamic performance, the rear has grown by approximately 25 cm to hold the laminar flow to the bodywork for as long as possible. Bugatti designers also enlarged the diffuser cross-section, pushing the diffuser’s trailing edge higher and thereby reducing the rear’s trailing surface by 44%. As a result, the slipstream and wind resistance generated are significantly reduced – factors which otherwise decelerate the vehicle.

Even from afar, the Chiron Super Sport is unmistakable due to its repositioned tailpipe configuration. To boost the effect of the diffuser and give it more space, Bugatti has shifted the otherwise central exhaust system to the side, with the pipes aligned vertically.

The 9 exhaust air holes on each fender are more than just a nod to the EB 110 Super Sport – they also serve to release the air pressure from the front wheel wells, thereby generating streamlined downforce at the front axle. Additional outlets behind the front wheel arches likewise help to balance out the aerodynamic loads.

For even greater exclusivity, new aluminium wheels in a 5Y-spoke design are available only for the Chiron Super Sport. These new Super Sport wheels are also available in a diamond-cut option. The Chiron Pur Sport’s iconic magnesium wheels, which further reduce the weight of the unsprung mass, are also available as an option.

Greater performance, higher revs
Bugatti thoroughly overhauled the 8.0-litre W16 engine for the Chiron Super Sport, boosting its performance by 100 ps to 1,600 ps. Maximum torque of 1,500 Nm is accessible from between 2,000 and 7,000 rpm, rather than up to 6,000 rpm. The extra engine speed (300 rpm) allows for even greater longitudinal acceleration and an even more emotive driving experience. The overall weight is also lowered by 23 kgs.

With the improved performance created by larger turbochargers with more efficient compressor wheels, the 7-gear dual-clutch transmission at full load and full speed transitions from sixth to seventh gear at 403 km/h. The claimed 0 to 200 km/h is 5.8 seconds and to 300 km/h is 12.1 seconds.

Chassis set-up for top speed
The new chassis has been developed specifically for the Chiron Super Sport’s high speeds and new aerodynamics. The steering systems and dampers create a firmer and more rigid connection to the vehicle from the driving feel, resulting in tighter steering for smoother steering movements. Harder springs stabilize the entire vehicle at top speed, and the engineers additionally also retuned the electronically controlled chassis.

Tyres with 500 km/h speed capability
Newly developed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres which have been optimized for top speed offer greater rigidity and smoothness than grip-optimized tyres fitted to the Chiron Pur Sport. What’s more, it is said that these are the only tyres that can consistently be used at up to 500 km/h. This is made possible by reinforced belts that can cope with immense forces – verified on the test bench originally built for the Space Shuttle.

Bugatti will soon begin with the manufacture of the Chiron Super Sport, with only 9 units planned for sale. Delivery of the hyper sportscars, each priced from 3.2 million euros (almost RM16 million) will start in early 2022.

Bugatti Chiron Sport versus Dassault Rafale Marine (w/VIDEO)

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Track-only Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 with full carbon chassis meets FIA Hypercar safety standards

With 30 years of experience in using composite materials in the automotive field, it’s not surprising that Lamborghini is the first carmaker to have a car on the market with a carbonfibre roll-cage homologated according to the FIA Hypercar safety standards. The model is the Essenza SCV12 which was developed by Lamborghini Squadra Corse and designed by Lamborghini Centro Stile as the direct descendant of cars such as the Miura Jota and Diablo GTR.

‘Laboratory of ideas’
“The Essenza SCV12 was born as a ‘laboratory of ideas’. This allowed us to use technical solutions usually found in racing prototypes, such as the suspension installed directly on the load-bearing gearbox, which is an innovative solution for a GT car. In addition, it features the new carbonfibre monocoque chassis without steel roll- cage, resulting from technical collaboration with the FIA, thanks to which we’ve started a process that will lead to an exponential improvement in safety for GT racing drivers in the future,” said Giorgio Sanna, Lamborghini’s Head of Motorsport.

Rigorous testing to meet standards
The carbonfibre chassis has been subjected to the testing required by the FIA for chassis homologation. This testing is extremely rigorous, involving both static and dynamic tests, and required Lamborghini Squadra Corse technicians to extensively modify the structure of the production chassis from which the Essenza SCV12 chassis is derived.

The carbonfibre monocoque was reinforced in several points, having to withstand forces of over 12 tons during the FIA homologation tests without presenting significant deformations. There are more than 20 static tests which, in addition to the chassis, involve the pedals, seatbelts and fuel tank. The dynamic crash tests, on the other hand, involve impacts at speeds of up to 14 metres/second. In this type of test, the chassis must not be subjected to any intrusion of external elements that could come into contact with the driver, and the fuel tank must not leak.

Saving weight and space
The decision of the Lamborghini Squadra Corse technicians to maintain the carbonfibre structure, ie not mounting a steel roll-cage, was a benefit in terms of overall weight, along with the use of innovative laminated foams inside the chassis (ROHACELL 71 XT). This also provided a significant increase in cockpit space for optimal driving comfort.

In the Essenza SCV12, the driver sits on an OMP FIA 8862 homologated seat, mounted on carbonfibre cradles designed by Squadra Corse and produced in Lamborghini’s CFK laboratories. The seat has been lowered compared to the road models and the driver and passenger are protected on the door side by two side impact guards, also made of composite material, which replace the classic steel tubes found in racing cars.

Another new solution is the cradle situated in the rear part of the monocoque, which houses the engine perfectly positioned on the longitudinal axis, while the gearbox has a load-bearing and structural function. This characteristic also made it possible to achieve torsional stiffness values 20% higher than those of the Huracan GT3 EVO.

“Along with the aerodynamic load of over 1,200 kgs at top speed, the torsional stiffness of the car contributes to ensuring extraordinary driving precision,” explained Marco Mapelli. “This makes it possible for the driver to tackle curves at speed without any appreciable correction of the steering angle. Essenza SCV12 is a very fast car, thanks to the extraordinary thrust of the 830 bhp engine, and it’s relatively easy to drive.”

Only for track use
The track-only hypercar, limited to 40 units, has the most powerful V12 naturally-aspirated engine ever developed by Lamborghini, combined with aerodynamics inspired by racing prototypes and new technical solutions designed for the ultimate driving experience.

The first units of Essenza SCV12 were delivered to customers about 2 months ago and the dedicated program of track events will start at the end of this month. Essenza SCV12 owners will become part of an exclusive club that will give them access to special programs to drive their hypercar on the most prestigious circuits in the world. The program includes storage service in a new hangar built in Sant’Agata Bolognese for the Essenza SCV12 club. Each car will have a personalized garage and dedicated services, including webcams to allow customers to monitor their cars 24 hours a day using an app.

Are you good enough to be a Lamborghini Official Sim driver?

600-unit Toyota GR Supra A91-CF Edition exclusively for the US market

The American market was always a strong market for the Toyota Supra, to the extent that some generations were born at Calty, its advanced design centre in California. When it made its return after an absence of 17 years, it was the North American International Auto Show that was chosen for its global debut.

So the American market is special to Toyota, especially where the Supra is concerned, and to recognise that, Toyota USA has developed a limited edition of the GR Supra just for the market. It’s the most exclusive 5^th generation Supra to date and only 600 units will be available.

Carbonfibre treatment
The highlight of the GR Supra A91-CF Edition, as it is known, is a carbonfibre front splitter and larger canards, with carbonfibre side rockers define the lower edge along the sides. The carbonfibre treatment (hence ‘CF Edition’) continues at the rear end, with a duckbill spoiler catching the air up top and lower canards doing so down below.

Wind tunnel-tested
The aerodynamic features are not just for looks. Extensive testing has been done in a wind tunnel to shape them to improve downforce and stability, especially when on the racetrack. The performance should be almost similar to the other GR Supra as it uses the same 3-litre 6-cylinder engine.

Additionally, unique 19-inch wheels sport a matte-black texture that complements A91-CF Edition’s available matte-gray Phantom paint colour. The other technical specs are the same too, with an 8-speed Z-F8 transmission, Adaptive Variable Sport suspension and active rear sport differential. The front brakes are from Brembo, with red calipers.

Exclusive interior trim
The interior, with a red-and-black theme, also has some exclusive features that include carbonfibre interior trim. The Alcantara-and-leather-trimmed cabin includes red stitching details with a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel and sport pedals.

In Malaysia, the model is officially available through selected authorised dealers with the GR Garage. It is priced from RM589,987 (with sales tax exemption, without insurance). Visit toyota.com.my for more information or to locate a GR Garage showroom in Malaysia.

Toyota GR Supra Jarama Racetrack Edition

Czinger 21C hypercar ready to go into production with final spec confirmed

Czinger (actually pronounced ‘zinger’), the company that uses an in-house invented Human-AI (Artificial Intelligence) production system to build its vehicles, has unveiled the final production spec of its 21C hypercar. This is the first model in a series of exclusive performance vehicles – only 80 units – created in part using additive manufacturing technologies. Each component manufactured using this technology is computationally engineered using AI, optimized for weight and performance, and is beautifully finished by hand.

1:1 power-to-weight ratio
The latest version has significant updates since its first public introduction in March 2020 just before the cancelled Geneva International Motor Show. The changes include a revised width of 2050 mm. With 1,250 bhp and a dry weight under 1240 kgs, the 21C is said to achieve a true 1:1 power-to-weight ratio. All the power generated by the hybrid powertrain goes to the road via an all-wheel drive system and ultra-light, sequential 7-speed automated manual gearbox.

The hybrid powertrain, developed in-house, incorporates a 2.88-litre V8 petrol engine with twin turbochargers positioned mid-vehicle. It is supplemented by 2 high-output electric motors, each powering a front wheel with torque vectoring. The redline is at 11,000 rpm, and customers can also opt for an upgrade which will add another 100 bhp.

The 21C V8 is designed to use a range of fuels, including carbon-recycled methanol and other e-fuels. This will enable it to be run as a zero-emission vehicle.

Top speed of 450 km/h
The hypercar has a top speed claimed to be up to 450 km/h in optional low-drag vmax configuration. Putting the driver and passenger in the centre position for ultimate weight distribution, aero and driver engagement, its claimed 0 to 100 km/h is 1.9 seconds, with 0 to 400 km/h in 21.3 seconds. At 160 km/h, its aerodynamic features and design can generate 615 kgs of downforce, increasing to 2,500 kgs at 320 km/h.

Patented production system
The hypercar is designed, built, and manufactured in Los Angeles using advanced technology tools that are integrated into a patented production system. This system includes automated AI-based design and optimization software, patented additive manufacturing driven processes, high accuracy automated assembly and novel performance materials. This revolutionary technology enables Czinger’s design and engineering team to unlock performance and styling not before seen in the automotive industry.

Computationally engineered, printed and assembled, each component is at the frontier of theoretical performance. For example, the front upper control arm is hollow with internal structures allowing it to achieve significant mass savings compared to a traditional tooled variant, thereby greatly reducing unsprung mass and further driving the 21C’s dominating performance.

Both of the fully homologated specifications of the 21C can be highly customized, and it is unlikely that anyone will pay the base price of US$1.7 million (about RM7.01 million) for a standard model. When the prototype was unveiled over a year ago, the plan was to deliver the first cars in early 2021. However, the pandemic would have upset the development and production timetable and Czinger is not giving saying when it can complete the cars.

Czinger 21C hybrid hypercar – 1,233 bhp and 0 to 100 km/h in 1.9 seconds! (w/VIDEOS)

McLaren adds a windscreen to the Elva

*Visit www.bhpetrol.com.my for more information.*

The McLaren Elva, one of the models in the Ultimate Series which consists of the F1, the P1, Senna, and the Speedtail, was originally designed without a windscreen, an open-top that would give an exhilarating experience like that of a motorcycle. Nevertheless, the engineers developed an Active Air Management System (AAMS) to provide a barrier of air so as to reduce the blast when travelling at high speeds.

However, not all customers may appreciate the absence of the glass shield in front and in some states in the USA, regulations require it to be fitted. So McLaren is now adding a windscreen to the Elva (which means ‘she goes’ in French), a move which obviously adds weight to the car.

20 kgs of extra weight
The original Elva is McLaren Automotive’s lightest-ever roadcar and keeping weight down has been one of the strong points of the brand. Installing a windscreen with the heavy glass adds extra weight which includes electronically synchronized rain-sensing wipers, washer jets and sun visors. To save weight, the frame is made of carbonfibre and the AAMS is also left out, resulting in a weight increase of just 20 kgs.

A separate engineering programme optimized aerodynamic and dynamic performance to ensure this variant has the same driving dynamics and performance of the original car. The vehicle stiffness is also said to be maintained.

2021 McLaren Elva — *Customers will have the option of having a windscreen or no windscreen as the original car was designed (above).*

Performance comparable to Senna
The acceleration of both versions, which have 804 bhp, twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engines, is comparable with that of a McLaren Senna. The claim is 2.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h for the fully open Elva as performance figures for the one with the windscreen are not available at this time since the first production unit has not been completed.

The Elva links McLaren’s heritage to its present and future with a name and style that recalls the McLaren-Elva racing cars of the 1960s. These were amongst the first sportscars designed and raced by Bruce McLaren and the company that he founded; today’s Elva was created to evoke the spirit of driving enjoyment symbolized by these cars.

They are available with heritage liveries like that of the Satin Casa Blue windscreen model prototype pictured. Customisation is, of course, available although the model will be among one of the rarest of McLarens. The initial plan was to make 399 units, but this number was reduced to 249 units and this year, the company has said that only 149 units will be available, with first deliveries starting at the end of this year.

“Super-lightweight and extremely powerful, the Elva delivers the ultimate connection between a driver, the road and the elements. Created to celebrate the pure joy of driving, it’s one of the most distinctive – and exclusive – cars we have made. Roofless and without windows, whether you opt for the screenless model with its sophisticated AAMS technology that provides an invisible barrier of air, or the windshield version with an additional level of enclosure, this is a roadster that rewards owners with the most exhilarating of open-air driving experiences, delivered as only a McLaren can,” said Mike Flewitt, CEO of McLaren Automotive.

This is the 800hp McLaren Elva – no roof, windscreen or windows!

Custom specification for Aston Martin V12 Speedster

Aston Martin has revealed more details of its forthcoming open cockpit V12 Speedster, of which there will only 88 cars available. Customers will be able to choose a custom specification that is certain to underscore the cars’ instant collector’s item status.

Deliveries of the hand-built cars will commence from mid-2021 with the price of the car likely to be US$1 million (about RM4.14 million) or more after a customer customizes it further.

The new car aligns gracefully with a heritage that features not only the exceptional DBR1, but also the CC100 which was unveiled in 2013 as a celebration of Aston Martin’s 100 years of sportscar excellence.

The DBR1
The DBR1 is, to date, the most successful racing machine constructed by Aston Martin, having triumphed in the 1959 at both the 24 hours of Le Mans and the 1,000 kms of Nurburgring, also winning the latter in 1957 and 1958. After its debut in 1956, the DBR1 recorded a further string of famous victories which culminated in Aston Martin taking the World Sportscar Championship in 1959.

Although a car made for competitive racing, the DBR1 was also a precursor for some of the marque’s most well-known heritage ‘DB’ road cars. At the car’s heart from 1958 onwards lay a 2992 cc straight six engine mated to a David Brown 5-speed gearbox. It was capable of powering this 800-kg sportscar to an estimated top speed in excess of 240 km/h.

Produced as a pure racing model – not directly derived from a road car – just five examples of the DBR1 were ever built, one of which was for private use. Such a rich and important history has inspired the brand to create a dedicated optional DBR1 specification for the new V12 Speedster.

Elements from Le Mans winner
Featuring cleverly integrated custom elements reminiscent of the Le Mans-winning car, the V12 Speedster DBR1 specification offers highlights such as the iconic Aston Martin Racing Green paint finish, Clubsport White pinstripe and roundels, a Satin Silver anodised grille with Clubsport lipstick graphic, Conker saddle leather and Viridian Green technical textile/Caithness leather.

Unique Aston Martin Racing Green driver and passenger helmets sit under transparent ‘windows’, while solid silver ‘wings’ badges glint beneath transparent enamel. There’s also finely judged application of gloss carbonfibre, Caithness Green leather and satin silver brushed aluminium switchgear in the open cabin.

Satin black diamond turned 21-inch centre lock wheels are a feature of this specialist specification, which each Aston Martin V12 Speedster spending more than 50 hours in the painting process alone at the brand’s advanced paint facility.

700 ps V12 engine
At the car’s heart lies a high-performance variant of Aston Martin’s now 5.2-litre V12 Twin-Turbo engine, capable of generating an output of around 700 ps/753 Nm. Accompanied by a V12 ‘soundtrack’, this output flows to the wheels through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission mounted towards the rear of the car. A 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.4 seconds is claimed, with a top speed of about 320 km/h.

“Creating a bespoke specification that nods to the glory of the DBR1 has been a huge privilege for my team and I, and I very much look forward to seeing these cars being driven with the same enthusiasm that we have applied to their design,” said Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman.

Ferrari 812 Competizione takes 812 Superfast to the next level

Described as ‘the ultimate expression of Ferrari’s concept of an extreme front-engined berlinetta’, the limited-edition special series 812 Competizione takes the 812 Superfast to a higher level than ever before. Unveiled to the world from the recently-opened GT Sporting Activities Department located alongside the Fiorano track at the factory, the 812 Competizione was accompanied by the targa-top 812 Competizione A which is also produced in a limited series.

Re-engineered V12 engine
Both Competizione cars have similar 6.5-litre V12 engines which can produce up to 818 bhp at 9250 rpm, with 692 Nm generated at 7000 rpm. Though derived from the Superfast, several areas have been significantly re-engineered while optimising the fluid dynamics of the intake system and combustion, and reducing internal friction.

Ferrari engineers revealed that there has been meticulous redesign of key engine components such as the con-rods, pistons, crankshaft and distribution. The titanium con-rods are 40% lighter than steel versions whilst delivering the same mechanical resistance; the piston pins, on the other hand, have been given a diamond-like carbon coating (DLC) to reduce the coefficient of friction to the benefit of performance, fuel consumption and wear. These modifications are combined with a rebalanced crankshaft, which is also 3% lighter than the previous version.

The most significant improvements, however, are to the distribution and the cylinder heads, which have both been completely redesigned. The cams (which now also have the DLC coating) now action the valve stems via DLC-coated steel sliding finger followers, which are derived from Ferrari’s F1 experience and were developed specifically for this engine to provide a higher lift profile.

To maintain the traditional V12 engine sound, whilst simultaneously introducing a GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) to the exhaust system that ensures compliance with the very latest emissions regulations, the engineers added a new exhaust tailpipe. This unusual and innovative design solution reinstates the medium-high frequency sound muffled by the use of the GPF. Work was also carried out on the intake tract to which a second pair of resonators was added to enhance specific frequencies, creating the perfect melding of the sound from the exhaust and from the intake system.

Both the 812 Competizione and 812 Competizione A use a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox with calibration of the control strategies reducing shift times by a further 5%. Although it retains the same gear ratios as the 812 Superfast, the shifts are even more sporty, thanks to the extra 500 rpm in maximum revs.

0 – 100 km/h in 2.85 seconds
Together with the significantly improved aerodynamics, the claimed top speed is over 340 km/h with 0 to 100 km/h said to be bridged within 2.85 seconds. Like on the 812 Superfast, the front diffuser is equipped with a passive mobile aero system which opens when running over 250 km/h, allowing the car to reach its maximum speed.

The rear screen, for the first time on a production model, is completely closed and allowed the engineers to explore some unprecedented aerodynamic solutions. It has been equipped with three pairs of profiled elements which protrude from its surface and act as vortex generators. From the LaFerrari onwards, vortex generators of this type have been used on production cars to maximise downforce generated by the flat underbody. However, this solution was applied to the rear screen on the 812 Competizione to distort the flow and thus redistribute the rear axle’s pressure field.

Focus on boosting overall performance levels
The guidelines in the development of the 812 Competizione’s performance strategy were to boost overall performance levels, improve driving pleasure in lateral dynamics and a specific focus on the handling characteristics of a special version. This called for the development and use of many innovative components and contents. Specifically, these include the first use of independent 4-wheel steering, the evolution of the Side Slip Control (SSC) system to version 7.0, and the development of the dedicated new Michelin Cup2R tyres.

The fact that the car is faster into corners demanded an improvement in braking power. Compared to the 812 Superfast, the brake cooling concept was completely redesigned around the new front Aero caliper which debuted on the SF90 Stradale and which has an air intake integrated into its casting.

Lightweight strategy
Particular attention was also paid to making the car as light as possible, which resulted in 38 kgs being slashed off its overall weight compared to the 812 Superfast. The areas primarily involved were the powertrain, running gear and bodyshell. Carbon-fibre was used extensively on the exterior, especially on the front bumpers, rear bumpers, rear spoiler and air intakes.

Much attention was also given to the design of the cockpit with the extensive use of carbonfibre trim, lightweight technical fabrics and a reduction in soundproofing. There are also dedicated sporty, lightweight forged aluminium rims and titanium studs. All-carbonfibre rims are also being made available for the very first time on a Ferrari V12 and can offer a total weight reduction of 3.7 kgs.

In terms of its interior architecture, the 812 Competizione has remained faithful to the 812 Superfast, retaining the same general parameters and main dash and door panel interfaces. The door panel itself has been lightened overall both formally and in terms of actual weight to underscore the sportiness of the cockpit.

Occupant comfort in targa top version
Occupant comfort in the targa-top configuration is ensured by the introduction of a flap integrated into the windscreen header rail which deflects the energised, incident flow upwards so it won’t cause turbulence for the occupants. This extends the bubble that covers the entire length of the cockpit, thereby also avoiding excess pressure in the area behind the occupants’ heads.

The targa top is made from carbonfibre to create a sense of aesthetic continuity with the roll-bars. It is stowed in a compartment with the same design shape as the targa itself. With the top stowed, the roll bars partly jut out above the rest of the bodywork but because they are carbonfibre, they become secondary visual elements and so do not compromise the broader, more squat stance buy instead amplify the visual lowering of the side view.

Pricing and production schedules have not been announced although it’s a sure bet that potential customers have already been informed and would have placed their orders. In fact, given their limited-edition status, these two cars are unlikely to be in showrooms except when an owner is kind enough to allow the dealer to display it for a while before it is taken away.

Ferrari Omologata – very unique and very exclusive

The National Vaccination Program in Malaysia is free of charge.

Toyota GR Supra Jarama Racetrack Edition

The Toyota GR Supra’s fundamental appeal is being a sportscar in its purest form, and a sportscar is at home on a racetrack. Thus it’s only appropriate that the company has developed an exclusive version which it calls the Jarama Racetrack Edition.

Only for Europe
Only 90 units of this version will be available, all for sale only in Europe. The ‘90’ is s subtle reference to the coupe’s model code which is ‘A90’ and the name is, of course, that of a well known racing circuit in Spain. In fact, that is where many of the world’s media had their first experience of the GR Supra two years ago.

The Jarama Racetrack Edition is visually distinguished by its unique Horizon Blue paintwork, contrasting with a matt black finish for its 19-inch forged alloy wheels and visible red-painted brake calipers.

Tuned by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing
Under the long bonnet is the original, 340 bhp/500 Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six unit, tuned by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, the company’s high-performance unit. The engine output flows through a rapid-shift 8-speed sports automatic transmission. When using the car’s launch control system, 0 -100 km/h acceleration times is claimed to be 4.3 seconds.

‘Golden ratio’
The sports performance and handling are said to be every bit as rewarding as the regular GR Supra, founded on the car’s finely balanced chassis and the ideal ‘golden ratio’ between the wide track and short wheelbase.

A low centre of gravity, a lightweight and highly rigid body and aerodynamically efficient add to the car’s agility and stability. These qualities are optimised by performance-enhancing features including adaptive variable suspension (with NORMAL and SPORT settings), active differential, sports-tuned steering and powerful Brembo sports brakes with four-pot aluminium front callipers and 348 mm vented front discs.

Exclusive interior fittings
In the cabin the car’s special status is signified by a carbonfibre dashboard insert specifying its number in the production run and featuring an outline map of the Jarama circuit, plus the Toyota GR Supra logo. The interior is upholstered in black Alcantara with blue stitching and the seats are power-adjustable and have a memory setting and integrated heating.

Standard equipment which customers will get includes satellite navigation with 3D-mapping, smartphone integration (via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), Supra Connect access to connected services and a 10-speaker audio system. Multimedia functions are controlled using an 8.8-inch TFT touchscreen, or (for certain functions) voice recognition.

The Supra Safety + Package provides a comprehensive range of active safety features, including a Pre-Collision System with a pedestrian detection function and the ability to recognise cyclists during daytime driving; Lane Departure Alert with steering assist; Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go function; Adaptive High-beam System; Adaptive Front-light System, which adjust the headlight illumination in line with the car’s steering angle; and Road Sign Assist.

In Malaysia, the GR Supra is available through dealerships with the GR Garage (currently 5 outlets in Peninsular Malaysia). Prices start from RM589,987 (without insurance) and each unit comes with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty.