The Door Industry Journal: Take a Break

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Sunday, 13 September 2026

McLaren Trophy America announces 2027 calendar

McLaren Trophy America will return in 2027 with an exciting five-event, 10-race calendar that will see the IMSA-sanctioned championship staged alongside some of the biggest competitions in American motorsport.

The varied calendar includes Formula 1, INDYCAR, IMSA and FIA WEC weekends, reinforcing McLaren Trophy America’s position as a premier class one-make racing championship and providing competitors with the opportunity to race at world-class venues in front of major motorsport audiences.

A highlight of the new season will be the return of McLaren Trophy America to the Formula 1 package at the Miami Grand Prix. Following the championship’s successful appearance in Miami this year, the series will once again give competitors the opportunity to race on one of North America’s highest-profile motorsport stages.

The 2027 season will begin at Barber Motorsports Park, where McLaren Trophy America will join the INDYCAR race weekend for the opening two rounds. A new circuit to the championship, it will pose a new challenge racing alongside America’s premier single seater series. Following Miami, a new partnership with IMSA will bring McLaren Trophy America to two of North America’s most celebrated circuits.

Rounds five and six will take place at Watkins Glen International from June 24 - 26, before the championship returns to Virginia International Raceway for rounds seven and eight from August 20 - 22. The collaboration with IMSA represents an exciting new chapter for McLaren Trophy America, placing the championship and its competitors in front of one of North America’s most established and passionate sports car racing audiences.

The season will then conclude on another major international stage at Circuit of The Americas from September 10 - 12. McLaren Trophy America will, for the first time, support the FIA World Endurance Championship event at Circuit of the Americas, with the final two races deciding the 2027 championship titles. A moment made even more exciting as McLaren races in the Hypercar and LMGT3 categories of the Lone Star Le Mans.

“2027 is shaping up to be an exceptional season for McLaren Trophy America. Returning to the Formula 1 weekend in Miami is undoubtedly one of the highlights, and we are equally excited to open the season alongside INDYCAR at Barber and conclude it with the FIA World Endurance Championship at Circuit of The Americas.

“Our new partnership with IMSA is another hugely important step for the championship. The 2027 calendar offers exactly the kind of experience McLaren Trophy America was created to deliver,” said Giorgio Sanna, Head of Motorsport, McLaren Automotive.

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Sunday, 6 September 2026

ONE-OFF SHOOTING BRAKES AT ZOUTE AND ZÜRICH AUCTIONS

Broad Arrow Auctions, driven by Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY), is proud to present two exceptional examples of the shooting brake genre at its upcoming Zoute Concours Auction and The Zürich Auction.

The first of the two desirable shooting brakes is one that made headlines when it was revealed in July 2026. The work of renowned Dutch designer and coachbuilder, Niels van Roij Design, the 2026 Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage is a modern-day interpretation of the famous 1972 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Shooting Brake commissioned through Chinetti Motors.

The second is a unique 1987 Aston Martin Lagonda Series 3 Shooting Brake with a conversion by Switzerland’s Roos Engineering Ltd that adds significantly to the dramatic wedge-shaped design of this iconic model.

“Shooting brakes have always captured the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts,” says Gregory Tuytens, Head of Consignments for Belgium and The Netherlands at Broad Arrow Auctions.

“Niels van Roij is already renowned for his incredible Ferrari and Rolls-Royce creations and his latest, the Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage, created great excitement when it was revealed in July. It presents a very exciting opportunity for a collector to acquire a genuine one-off with remarkable modern provenance.”

Revealed in July 2026 at the prestigious Royal Automobile Club Concours and lauded by the world’s top motoring press, the Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage is the latest of the genre to be handcrafted by renowned Dutch designer and coachbuilder, Niels van Roij. Paying tribute to the iconic Daytona Shooting Brake commissioned by Luigi Chinetti Jr in 1972, this superb example of modern coachbuilding and bespoke design elegantly reimagines the original with its striking black paintwork, cognac leather interior and central-mounted instrument binnacle.

Strictly a one-off, it is based on a 2009 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano and while the impressive V12 beneath the long bonnet is largely untouched, almost every element of the car has been altered to create something truly unique. This includes the 3D printed carbon fibre within the elegantly sculpted nose, the beautifully hand-formed bodywork that extends to the curvaceous rear with its deep window, and the diffuser that surrounds the bespoke double-barrel shotgun exhaust tips. The electrically operated butterfly doors that curve around the handcrafted shooting brake luggage compartment feature strong and flexible Plexiglas and intricate, hand-milled hinges, each a work of art in themselves.

Showing only 43,802 kilometres at the time of cataloguing—and selected use since its conversion, the Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage required over 15,000 hours of design, engineering and craftsmanship to create and presents a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a genuine piece of modern coachbuilding history.

It will be presented at the Zoute Concours Auction on 9 October 2026 at the prestigious Approach Golf in Knokke-Heist, Belgium where Broad Arrow returns in collaboration with Zoute Grand Prix Car Week. Approximately 70 exceptional collector cars will be offered for sale, spanning a wide variety of categories, marques and price points.

The Aston Martin Lagonda was revolutionary for its imposing wedge-shape design, luxurious interior and futuristic technology. This Series 3 is one of only 76 produced by the British marque and the only one to have officially been approved by the factory for conversion as a shooting brake. Acquired in 1996, it was entrusted to Roos Engineering Ltd in Switzerland, who undertook the dramatic transformation, including using factory-supplied parts.

Completed in 2000, the conversion involved a significant overhaul of the mechanical components, but it is the shooting brake style that truly captures the imagination. The windows and luggage compartment bodywork were all custom-made, as were the carpets and other trim elements. The interior was redesigned in Connolly leather and Alcantara and the rear bumper features revised parking and signal lights to ensure they can be seen when the tailgate is open.

One of the rarest iterations of the Aston Martin Lagonda, this Shooting Brake conversion captures the attention with its unique styling and precise Swiss craftsmanship.

“The Aston Martin Lagonda Series 3 Shooting Brake is one of the most dramatic models of its era,” says Paul Gaucher, Head of Consignments for Switzerland at Broad Arrow Auctions. “While distinctively British in character, is so perfectly suited to the Swiss market—it is exceptionally bespoke and exclusive while also being tremendously usable. It’s a car that is equally at home packed with skis in St. Moritz as it is full of shopping bags on Bahnhofstrasse in Zürich.

This unique Aston Martin will be one of approximately 60 collector cars that will be presented at The Zürich Auction on 7 November 2026. Returning to the luxurious Dolder Grand for the second year as the official auction partner of Auto Zürich, the auction promises an unforgettable experience for buyers and sellers on the shore of Lake Zürich.

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Sunday, 30 August 2026

ASTON MARTIN VALEN: THE MOST POWERFUL FRONT ENGINED SUPERCAR

Aston Martin is proud to introduce Valen; the world’s most powerful front-engined car from a manufacturer and the most powerful front-engined V12 supercar in the company’s 113-year history. The latest in an illustrious line of limited production twelve-cylinder specials, Valen explores provocative design themes and extremes of performance in pursuit of maximum visual impact and a truly distinctive driving experience.

Pushing the limits of design and engineering to achieve a supercar of unique drama and capability, Valen is clad in a full-carbon fibre body and powered by the brand’s most powerful version of its 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine with 850PS and 1000Nm of torque from just 2500rpm. Combined with targeted hardware and extensive software calibration to steering, suspension and braking systems, Valen delivers a driver-focused configuration to match its raw performance.

Bestowed with an assertive design and character, Valen required a name with equal gravitas and meaning. Derived from the Latin word ‘valens’, with the etymology referencing "strong," or "powerful", Valen was the perfect name for Aston Martin’s most powerful front engined V12, continuing the long-standing dynasty of ‘V’ names.

The project, the latest special from Aston Martin’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin who previously gave us Valour, Valiant and DBR22 to name a few was realised thanks to the unique scope and expertise of Aston Martin’s newly formed Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) Department.

Aston Martin CEO, Adrian Hallmark said: “The latest in a bloodline of limited production special series models from our bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin, Valen’s world-beating performance required a design to capture the raw motion and unmatched output of our V12 powertrain. With more power, less weight, and a spectacular soundtrack, the dramatic design is backed up by equally dramatic performance.”

ENGINEERING

Reinforcing Valen’s position as the most powerful front-engined supercar, is a sharper-shifting 8-speed ZF transmission, which uses race-proven shift strategies developed for Aston Martin’s Vantage GT4 race programme, with crisper and more engaging shifts in all drive modes, which has reduced Valen’s 0-60mph time to just 3.0 seconds*. Top speed is electronically limited to 214mph.

To bring out the best from the V12 powertrain, Valen adopts a performance drive mode philosophy; Sport, Sport+ and Track modes to create a true feeling of urgency and focus befitting supercar levels of performance and dynamics.

Careful attention has also been paid to Valen’s throttle mapping, which changes according to drive mode. For spirited road driving in Sport and Sport+ modes the throttle pedal uses a shorter map to deliver more throttle earlier in its travel, while Track mode trades that urgency for a longer and more progressive delivery when on-limit precision is the priority.

Valen’s commitment to performance extends to a significant weight saving of up to 110kg over the core V12 platform – a central focus of the programme. This is achieved through use of a variety of lightweight motorsport inspired materials including carbon fibre, aluminium, titanium and magnesium. An optional lightweight pack featuring machined-from-solid aluminium suspension arms, knuckles and titanium chassis bolts makes a 16.9kg weight saving alone through meticulous manufacturing and extreme attention to detail.

Through its new lightweight titanium exhaust system, Valen has a soundtrack to match its performance. The system has been developed specifically for Valen and features new micro mufflers ensuring compliance with homologation regulations; while saving weight and enhancing the sound quality that’s such an essential part of enjoying a V12-engined car to the full. It’s a key part of the strategy to ramp-up emotion to create a car of unmistakable visual, dynamic and aural character.

Valen’s quad exhaust system evokes the design language of a mid-engine hypercar, moulded into the form of a front mid-engined supercar, with four tailpipes split between two upper and two lower. These tailpipe finishers are formed with 3D printed titanium with the focus on lightweighting and material craftsmanship. The upper exhaust exits are always open, with the lower exits valved, opening depending on drive mode for the ultimate emotive soundtrack.

Valen’s roar has been carefully tuned to deliver a more performance focused audible experience, reducing lower frequencies while amplifying higher tones. Optimised system dimensions enhance the progression to a dramatic crescendo, while the upper exhaust outlets are tuned akin to organ pipes to generate resonance at higher engine speeds, resulting in a significant increase in character and presence.

DESIGN

Valen’s dramatic frontal treatment is characterised by deeply recessed slimline headlamp units which are hooded beneath the sharp leading edge of the plunging bonnet line. Together with the more angular treatment of the radiator aperture, bold geometric mesh grille and acutely angled front splitter create a distinctive character

The bonnet itself features a single top vent with perforations at the trailing edge. On each side the traditional side strake has been sharpened and elongated and is now fully incorporated into a large functional vent which extracts air from the wheel arch and guides it down the rounded flanks. The strake feature extends almost the full length of the door before the swollen rear haunches widen to cover the rear wheels.

The lower section of each side is dominated by a stepped sill, which creates a tightly cinched waistline that emphasises the muscular front and rear fender sections. Sharp saw-tooth vortex generators positioned on the trailing edge of the sills pull highspeed airflow from beneath the car to reducing lift and generate downforce. New side-glass quarter windows add to Valen’s profile and demonstrate commitment to creating a car with a unique identity.

Valen’s rear-design treatment is equally bold. Instead of a fixed rear window and trunk lid both features have been replaced by a solid tailgate. Featuring an aerodynamic wing in its upper section, the tailgate opens onto a sizeable trunk (170 litres) which is available with an optional bespoke luggage set (Touring Pack) to make the most of the available space. A soft, tailored cover can be unfolded to protect the paintwork when lifting cases in and out.

The interior of Valen has been developed around a clear principle of visual lightness, reflecting the significant mass reduction engineered throughout the car. Central to this is a slim centre console, enabled by advanced 3D-printed components and incorporating the performance-focused switchpack introduced on Valhalla. Angled towards the driver, the inclined console creates a more focused and controlled cockpit environment, reinforcing the connection between driver and machine.

Valen’s cabin offers a choice of newly developed Sports Plus seats, designed to combine support with long-distance comfort, or lightweight carbon fibre performance seats for a more focused driving experience. Together, these options allow customers to tailor the cockpit to their intended use and needs.

Functional items such as the air vents have been changed to further reduce visual clutter and a new palette of anodising colours has been developed, expanding the scope for embellishment and personalisation offered via Q by Aston Martin.

Production of Aston Martin’s most powerful front-engined V12 supercar is strictly limited to 150 examples with first deliveries scheduled for Q2 2027. Please explore the Aston Martin Valen configurator at configurator.astonmartin.com

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Sunday, 23 August 2026

Gordon Murray Reveals the S1, a Highly Exclusive V12 Manual Supercar

Gordon Murray Special Vehicles has revealed the new ‘S1’ supercar at The Quail during Monterey Car Week, a touring-focused evolution of the S1 LM that exudes timeless confidence and celebrates a unique approach to Driving Perfection.

The naturally aspirated, V12-powered, manual supercar is an evolution of the S1 LM platform, which is optimised for mechanical grip, rather than high downforce, to offer a distinctive driving experience. The revised suspension adds comfort and refinement for long distance journeys, while retaining Gordon Murray’s signature Driving Perfection philosophy. The S1 commission is the latest model from Gordon Murray Special Vehicles, where all seven design principles are pushed to their most extreme expression.

While the S1 shares its family DNA with the S1 LM (the Special One), its character and purpose are distinctly different. The S1 LM was conceived as the most intense, road-legal, race-inspired celebration of Gordon Murray’s 1995 Le Mans 24 Hours victory. The S1 evolves the elegant design language of the S1 LM, while reframing the set-up for fast, engaging, long-distance road driving.

Professor Gordon Murray, CBE, Group Executive Chairman said: “With the S1, we wanted to show how much beauty and purity there is in this design when the more extreme aerodynamic elements of the S1 LM are stripped away. It has the same intensity, response, and engineering integrity, but has been tuned for a different purpose. This is a car you could drive along the coast from Los Angeles to Monterey in real comfort, still enjoying every gearshift, every corner, and every note of the V12 when the road opens up. It is exclusive, analogue, and deeply driver focused, but also more elegant, more refined, and more usable over distance.”

The S1 removes the S1 LM’s large, fixed rear wing, long front splitter, and deep side skirts; every exterior body panel is new. The result is a cleaner silhouette inspired by classic proportions.

A new active rear aero system is integrated into the bodywork, adapting to the demands of high-speed stability and braking. The focus moves away from extreme downforce and towards mechanical grip, balance, and confidence on the road.

At the heart of the S1 is a bespoke 4.2-litre naturally aspirated Cosworth V12 producing up to 690 PS. Derived from the same lineage as the S1 LM engine, the 4.2-litre unit has been developed to deliver exceptional response, while retaining the sound, immediacy, and character expected from a Gordon Murray engine. The low-inertia, high-revving engine features a suite of competition-spec components such as silicon carbide-coated lightweight pistons, titanium valves, titanium connecting rods, and a dry-sump lubrication system. With effortless touring in mind the S1 features a broader torque range, delivering 80% of torque from just 2,500 RPM and around 500 Nm at 7,000 RPM.

The engine is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, featuring a touring sixth gear as standard. New straighter gearbox cable routing helps deliver the precise, rifle-bolt shift feel that remains central to the car’s physical connection between driver and machine.

The S1 retains the S1 LM’s width, track, lightweight suspension architecture, and wider tyres, but ride height is increased by 10 mm and the damping is retuned for greater compliance while preserving steering precision, agility, and feedback.

Lightweight engineering remains fundamental. Ultra-lightweight carbon fibre body panels, lightweight suspension components, and Gordon Murray’s obsession with weight reduction contribute to an overall target weight below that of the T.50, despite the S1’s more luxurious cabin trim, enhanced sound system, and additional acoustic refinement.

The S1 features bespoke front and rear lighting, with daytime running lamps integrated into the light cluster, differentiating the headlight signature from the S1 LM, where the running lights sit in a narrow blade below the headlight. Unique main beam auxiliary lights sit low within the air intake at the nose of the car – a nod to the 1992 Monaco show car design by Murray, which featured similar lower lights, an element that never saw production.

Further unique features include distinctive A-pillar-mounted mirrors that integrate a discrete rear-view camera system; and all-new lightweight wheels, inspired by the iconic Monaco 1992 show car. The engine bay presents the V12 as a centrepiece, with the polished Inconel exhaust and 24-carat gold-plated heat shield. A bespoke and exclusive V12 by Cosworth with an increased displacement of 4.2 litres. The new unit develops 690 PS and a shrieking 12,100 RPM. With 500 Nm of torque, 81 percent of which is, astonishingly, available as low as 2,500 RPM.

Inside, the S1 retains the central driving position and low scuttle height that define Gordon Murray’s driver focus, while introducing a more refined and luxurious interpretation of the S1 LM cockpit. Premium leather, bespoke fabrics, tailored trim, touring-level seat comfort, enhanced acoustic insulation, revised infotainment screens, and a bespoke lightweight audio system make the three-seat cabin more suited to long-distance use.

The driver can tailor the car’s feel through switchable, selectable power steering, choosing assistance for relaxed cruising or a more unfiltered connection on dynamic roads.

The new dihedral doors with integrated drop-down glass replace the Lexan race-inspired ticket window from the S1 LM. These doors allow a wider opening to allow greater ingress and egress, further underlining the S1’s shift towards everyday usability.

Production of the S1 will be exclusively limited to 64 units worldwide. Each car will be individually commissioned and specified by its owner, pricing remains undisclosed.

Since unveiling the T.50 supercar in 2020, Gordon Murray has established a family of ultra-exclusive, lightweight, driver-focused supercars that celebrate naturally aspirated engines, mated to manual transmissions, and uncompromising attention to the relationship between driver and machine, on road and track. Now, the S1 carries that philosophy into a more refined, usable, touring-focused form.

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Sunday, 16 August 2026

Q by Aston Martin and Aston Martin Newport Beach's Heritage Edition

Aston Martin Newport Beach, in collaboration with Aston Martin’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin, has unveiled an exclusive collection of five bespoke ‘Heritage Edition’ sports cars that celebrate some of the marque's most memorable paint colours from the 1960s and 1970s.

Each one-of-one commission pairs an iconic heritage exterior paint finish – remastered for the collection with the brand’s latest paint technology – with handcrafted Q by Aston Martin details, creating a modern interpretation of Aston Martin's rich design legacy.

Available exclusively through Aston Martin Newport Beach, the ‘Heritage Edition’ collection showcases five current 2027 model-year sportscars finished in newly revived heritage paint colours selected by the Q by Aston Martin design team.

Beyond the exterior colours, each interior includes bespoke Q perforated fluted seats, used for the first time in the new Vantage and new Vanquish; Q Heritage Aston Martin logo embroidery on the center armrest, and exclusive ‘Heritage Edition’ sill plaques. The Heritage Edition DB12 coupe, DB12 Volante and Vanquish feature Dark Walnut Open Pore Wood Inlays.

"Every Aston Martin tells a story, and these Heritage Edition commissions celebrate some of the colours that helped define the marque during one of its most celebrated eras," said Jeff West, General Manager, Aston Martin Newport Beach. "Working alongside Q by Aston Martin allowed us to honour these historic finishes while pairing them with today's most advanced sports cars, creating a collection that bridges Aston Martin's extraordinary heritage with its uncompromising future."

DB12 Volante – Pale Primrose

Finished in Pale Primrose, this DB12 Volante revives one of Aston Martin's most recognisable historic paint finishes. The shade was immortalised on the cover of the 1958 DB4 sales brochure before being selected by Corgi for its celebrated Aston Martin model, which later became the inspiration for the iconic James Bond DB5 toy of the mid-1960s.

As the world's first Super Tourer convertible, the DB12 Volante combines a hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 671 horsepower with exceptional refinement, delivering effortless performance alongside open-air driving exhilaration.

DB12 coupe – Pacific Blue

The Heritage Edition DB12 coupe wears Pacific Blue, a colour first offered on the DB4 before appearing on both the DB5 and DB6. Q by Aston Martin revived the finish after studying an original Pacific Blue sample from the historic DB6 colour configuration brochure, faithfully bringing the classic hue into the modern era.

The DB12 is a true Super Tourer and is powered by Aston Martin's 671-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8, the DB12 coupe blends exhilarating acceleration, precision handling and class-leading dynamic capability while redefining the grand touring segment.

Vanquish coupe – Tudor Green

The flagship Vanquish coupe is presented in Tudor Green, a metallic finish closely associated with Aston Martin models of the 1970s. The colour complements the muscular proportions of today's halo sports car while recalling the elegance and grandeur suggested by England's historic Tudor era.

As Aston Martin's flagship front-engine sports car, the Vanquish is powered by a new 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 producing 824 horsepower, delivering breathtaking performance, exceptional driver engagement and a top speed of 214 mph.

Vantage coupe – Winchester Blue

Named after the historic cathedral city of Winchester in Hampshire, Winchester Blue was one of several British town-inspired colours offered by Aston Martin during the 1970s. It became particularly well known on the legendary V8 Vantage, making it a fitting choice for today's performance-focused Vantage Coupe.

With a 656-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, the latest Vantage delivers sharper responses, greater agility and exceptional driver confidence, embodying Aston Martin's vision for the next generation of front-engine sports cars.

Vantage Roadster – Mink Silver

The collection is completed by a Vantage Roadster finished in Mink Silver, inspired by the elegant pale metallic shades that became popular on DB6 models throughout the 1960s. More than 100 DB6 examples were finished in Mink, a colour celebrated for complementing the graceful lines of what remained Aston Martin's best-selling model until the arrival of the DB7.

The Vantage Roadster combines its 656-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with an electrically operated folding roof, providing uncompromising sports car performance and dynamic capability while delivering an exhilarating open-air driving experience.

The Heritage Edition collection demonstrates the limitless possibilities available through Q by Aston Martin, the marque's bespoke personalisation service. Working collaboratively with clients, Q by Aston Martin transforms individual inspiration into unique automotive commissions, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design and engineering excellence.

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Sunday, 9 August 2026

McMurtry Spéirling PURE fan car makes global public debut

The Spéirling PURE will soon make its global public debut under the glistening Californian sunshine at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering on Friday 14th August as part of Monterey Car Week.

At the 23rd edition of an unmissable event on the global automotive calendar, the Spéirling PURE will be on static display at the McMurtry stand, ready for attendees to soak up all the new details and proportions of the production car for the first time.

With 95% new components compared to prototype models, the Spéirling PURE delivers truly accessible F1-level performance that any driver can enjoy, with a strong focus on a plug-and-play ownership experience.

After The Quail, the Spéirling PURE will progress to Laguna Seca Raceway on 15th August for Monterey Motorsports Reunion. McMurtry co-founder and Managing Director, Thomas Yates, will be attending both events.

In the weeks following, the Spéirling PURE will be on display at a number of McMurtry dealer partners and tracks across America. Details will be announced soon.

Thomas Yates, McMurtry co-founder and Managing Director, comments: “The Quail really will be a significant moment in McMurtry’s history, and we cannot wait to witness the reaction of the public, our customers and the media in seeing the Spéirling PURE in production form, in person, for the first time. It’s one thing to see the images online, but to truly absorb the car’s design, proportions, details and finish, nothing compares to when the car is there in front of you.

“Feedback from our earliest deposit holders has shaped the car just as much as our own engineering ambition did. Their input helped turn a record-breaking prototype into something extraordinary and genuinely usable. Very soon, we’ll be delivering the first customer car, and Spéirling PUREs will be out in the wild on race tracks and hillclimbs across the globe.”

What’s new from prototype to production

In production form, the Spéirling PURE represents the culmination of relentless research and development to produce a hyper track car that comprises 95% new components compared to prototype models. Improvements made from prototype models include:

Powertrain

● An increased battery capacity - now 100kWh, up from 60kWh batteries used in prototypes - to improve overall running time, using Molicel P50B NCA 21700 cells.

● A standardised, modular McMurtry battery design with futureproofing built in for evolution upgrades.

● Increased regenerative braking energy recovery, up to 200kW at all states of charge.

● New Helix drive motors with additional torque, mated to an upgraded gearbox.

● Moving the powertrain cooling system from the rear to the front of the car, bringing dual benefits in efficiency and aerodynamics. Despite the production-spec Spéirling PURE growing slightly in size to accommodate a larger 100kWh battery, airflow across the car and through its rear tunnels is much cleaner.

Chassis and Bodywork

● New exterior and interior designs, staying true to the original Spéirling philosophy.

● New carbon fibre monocoque designed to meet global motorsport safety standards. Accommodates larger battery, enhances cabin space with more elbow and leg room, improves ingress/egress via wider door opening, with a repositioned A-pillar for a wider field of view.

● Increased wheelbase from 2m to 2.2m to accommodate the new 100 kWh battery.

● Secondary door now hinged, with wider hinge spacing further aiding ingress/egress.

● A swan-neck style rear wing, incorporating a boot compartment underneath for a helmet and HANS device.

● Headlights to allow for evening/nighttime track running.

● Track day safety features including indicators, hazard lights, brake lights and main beam flash.

Downforce-on-DemandTM System

● New fan blades for enhanced durability.

● New fan motors and cooling design, plus overall assembly position relocation to improve centre of gravity.

● Under-car downforce skirt durability and travel improvements, able to perform for thousands of kilometres.

● An onboard air compressor as part of the Downforce-on-DemandTM skirt system. The skirt can be retracted independently for trailer loading and slow-speed manoeuvring, such as when in the pits. Spéirling prototypes required an external air bottle to pre-charge the system.

Suspension and Steering

● Increased suspension articulation, also with nominal ride height increase of 20% when in use.

● 11% wider front and 3% wider rear off-the-shelf slick Michelin tyres. Increased sidewall height by 15mm front and rear to improve compliance.

● Electric power steering system replaced by a hydraulic power-assisted steering system with Formula 1-style valving for lighter steering and increased driver feedback.

● Electronically-adjustable dampers as an optional extra.

No more than 100 examples of the Spéirling PURE will be produced. First customer deliveries begin later in 2026.

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Sunday, 2 August 2026

Aston Martin Dreadnought: Built to deliver digital domination in Call of Duty – Modern Warfare 4

Created in collaboration with the game’s developers and publishers, Infinity Ward and Activision®, this uncompromising and deliberately extreme creation combines Aston Martin’s high-performance, luxury DNA with the virtual landscape of Call of Duty® to deliver an immersive experience designed to dominate the most challenging and unforgiving digital environments yet rendered.

Conceived by the Aston Martin Design team, who enjoyed the freedom of working without the restraints of the physical world, they have translated the capabilities of a performance SUV into an immersive virtual world for the next generation of Aston Martin fans. Grounded in the physics of the Modern Warfare® universe, this unapologetic, uncompromising tactical all-wheel drive SUV delivers not simply a stunning exploration of extreme visual language, but also an engaging and dynamic player experience that includes the roar of a full-blooded V12 powered Aston Martin.

Stefano Saporetti, Director of Brand Diversification, Aston Martin said: "Our brand diversification strategy is built on exploring new dimensions of luxury, and expanding Aston Martin’s footprint into the gaming world allows us to engage with a new generation on their own terms. The Dreadnought isn't just a digital vehicle; it’s a strategic gateway for a younger, global audience to experience our ultra-luxury DNA. By pushing the boundaries of virtual engineering, we are ensuring that the spirit of Aston Martin resonates powerfully with the luxury consumers of tomorrow."

Dreadnought combines supercar levels of performance, advanced armour technologies and adaptive combat zone intelligence systems into a single, striking form, where every element has been imagined for elite tactical performance: from its optimised aerodynamics to its fully integrated digital command interfaces. Exquisite design details emphasise Dreadnought’s high luxury heritage: from the herringbone weave of the exterior carbon fibre to the Oxford Tan leather dashboard and door panel details, and the metallic gold gear lever. These are uniquely contrasted in this digital creation with features rarely found in an Aston Martin such as military grade armour-plating.

The Dreadnought name naturally conjures up images of military might, too, as aside from its obvious dictionary definition “fear nothing”, it also recalls the famous early 20th Century British warship, HMS Dreadnought, which was so revolutionary in terms of her armament and propulsion that she coined an entirely new class of warship, defining global naval military ambition in the early 1900s. So, including unique options like reserve fuel tanks and bespoke weapons storage seemed completely appropriate for the Aston Martin Dreadnought.

Commenting on the debut of Dreadnought in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, said: “The team have hugely enjoyed the not inconsiderable challenge of redefining what an Aston Martin can be when the only limit is imagination.

“To create the ultimate exotic off-road machine, I had to imagine Dreadnought not only as a digital asset, but as a vehicle living in the real world—navigating the streets of New York, powering through the monsoon-soaked roads of Mumbai, and performing with complete authenticity in every environment. That vision allowed us to create something that feels genuinely real, even within the immersive world of the game.

“To me, Dreadnought is unmistakably an Aston Martin – amplified without restraint. The quality of the details we have been able to include, right down to the iconic Chiltern Green paint colour so synonymous with this marque, underscores our dedication to delivering a truly authentic Aston Martin experience. Features as diverse as the carbon fibre chassis right through to exquisite elements such as the door hinges in anodised Satin Gold, reflect our real-world determination to be the most desirable ultra-luxury brand in the automotive sector, and beyond.”

At launch players can locate the Dreadnought in key points of interest within both DMZ and Call of Duty: Warzone modes. An Aston Martin’s natural habitat is amongst luxury properties and landscapes; Dreadnought simply has a slightly more adventurous commute.

Jack O’Hara, Co-Studio Head, Infinity Ward, lead development studio of the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare series, said: “Collaborating with Aston Martin’s design team has been an incredible journey, we’ve brought the vision of Dreadnought to life from the ground up.

"Every element, from early concepting through to animation, geometry, and in‑game physics and propulsion, was carefully engineered to deliver a high‑performance armored vehicle that stays true to Aston Martin’s distinctive design philosophy and an armored exterior, a large gas tank and the most aggressive all-wheel drive in Modern Warfare 4.

“As long-time admirers of the brand, we share a commitment to passion, precision, and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence pushing every detail and every system to its limit to create something truly exceptional for our players.”

Dreadnought makes its global debut at Fanatics Fest in New York where attendees will have an exclusive opportunity to see a full-size model of Aston Martin’s virtual SUV on the Call of Duty® stand.

Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® 4, published by Activision, will be available globally on XBOX Series X|S, PlayStation 5® and PC via Battle.net, XBOX on PC, Steam, and Nintendo SwitchTM 2 on Friday, October 23, 2026.

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Sunday, 26 July 2026

Broad Arrow Presents 40 Influential Mercedes-Benz Youngtimer Cars

Broad Arrow Auctions, driven by Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY), is delighted to announce the first North American installment in its Global Icons Online Auction Series, featuring a limited offering from The Patina Collective. This extraordinary group of 40 of the world’s most influential and culturally significant modern Mercedes-Benz automobiles from the marque’s celebrated Youngtimer era will be presented entirely without reserve—an exceptional opportunity for new and seasoned collectors alike.

Well known in the hobby, The Patina Collective is more than a collection of rare automobiles. The Collective celebrates an era defined by bold design, individuality, and excess, while reflecting a deep-rooted passion for Mercedes-Benz heritage and the preservation of these increasingly rare widebody masterpieces. Broad Arrow’s exceptional limited offering from The Patina Collective presents collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire some of the most distinctive and era-defining Mercedes-Benz automobiles ever produced, including many seldom-seen non-U.S. market models.

“These are not your traditional Mercedes-Benz collector cars or even your typical AMG collectibles,” says William Cooper, Car Specialist for Broad Arrow Auctions. “Our offering from The Patina Collective represents an era of wild design and true excess coupled with incredible performance.

"The group speaks to an emerging market for a new generation of car collectors who are after the most unique and eclectic cars from the 1980s and 1990s, a group of cars that have earned a longstanding cult following and that are now coming into their own as true collectibles.

"The Patina Collective has an incredible reputation for assembling rare, high-quality finds and Broad Arrow’s online auction offers the chance to acquire these cars with confidence in their provenance, with importation complete, and entirely without reserve.”

Highlights from Broad Arrow’s 40-car offering from The Patina Collective are led by:

1993 Mercedes-Benz 500 E AMG 6.0 (Estimate: $150,000 - $180,000 | Offered Without Reserve)

This rare precursor to the later E 60 AMG reflects AMG’s early development philosophy before its full integration into Mercedes-Benz. Finished in “triple-black” Black (040) over Black leather and featuring body-colored 17-inch AMG Aero I wheels and Recaro front seats, this pre-merger AMG is powered by a 6.0-liter AMG-built “M119” V8, stamped and certified by AMG. The car is accompanied by a comprehensive history file, including the original bill of sale, AMG order form, German registration documents, service records, and an AMG Classic Conversion Confirmation verifying period Affalterbach modifications.

1993 Mercedes-Benz 500 E Limited Prototype (Estimate: $100,000 - $150,000 | Offered Without Reserve)

As one of the earliest known physical embodiments of the 500 E Limited concept program, this example offered by Broad Arrow occupies a singular position within Mercedes-Benz development history, directly bridging internal design validation and the eventual production E 500 Limited series. Constructed as a factory exhibition vehicle with option code 994 for the 1993 Frankfurt IAA Motor Show, this prototype was built for early evaluation of the “Limited” concept. It boasts the distinctive two-tone Black and Green patterned leather interior, EVO II wheels, and birds eye maple trim combination that became code 286 and is equipped with the full executive specification including memory seats, power rear sunshade, Becker MB Exquisit audio with CD changer, D-Net telephone, and more. Offered with 68,578 kilometers (approximately 42,500 miles), this is the original essence of a “wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC ABC-Exclusive Widebody (Estimate: $55,000 - $60,000 | Offered Without Reserve)

This is a well-preserved example of the unapologetic opulence that defined the 1980s. With ABC Exclusive bodykit-equipped Mercedes remaining unicorns to encounter, this is a rare opportunity to acquire one such example enriched by a host of bespoke period touches, a striking factory color combination, and detailed maintenance history from new. Finished in factory correct Barolo Red over a Palomino leather interior and fitted with signature Gotti wheels, Recaro C seats, and more, this 560 SEC ABC-Exclusive Widebody is powered by the 5.5-liter V8, Mercedes’ most powerful powerplant in the U.S. in period.

1995 Mercedes-Benz E 36 AMG Touring (Estimate: $50,000 - $55,000 | Offered Without Reserve)

This is a final-year example of the S124, believed to be one of 30 upgraded to E 36 AMG specification in 1995. Powered by an AMG enhanced 3.6-liter M104 inline-six, the car retains its correct AMG-stamped engine block and rare "3.6" intake plenum mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The E 36 is finished in Brilliant Silver Metallic over Black leather with ASD, heated Sportline seats, rear-facing third-row jump seat and air conditioning, while additional AMG featured include a body kit, 17-inch Aero I Sport multi-piece wheels, and a 280 km/h AMG speedometer. Among the rarest and most charismatic AMG-tuned Mercedes-Benz tourings of the era, this E36 AMG Touring offers a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and exclusivity. With its documented history, authentic AMG drivetrain, and final model year production, it stands as a highly desirable example from AMG's golden age.

Additional information on all 40 lots is available at broadarrowauctions.com. Broad Arrow’s presentation of Global Icons: The Patina Collective, is open from bidding from August 10-21. Interested bidders may register to bid and connect with a Broad Arrow Auctions car specialist via the website or by calling +1 313 312 0780. In-person preview opportunities will be made available by appointment only.

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