Norton Way Corporate Magazine - 100th ISSUE!

WE ARE ABSOLUTELY THRILLED TO WELCOME YOU TO OUR 100TH EDITION OF THE CORPORATE NEWSLETTER! IT'S AN INCREDIBLE MILESTONE AND ONE THAT WE COULDN'T HAVE ACHIEVED WITHOUT OUR LOYAL READERS. WE WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS OUR HEARTFELT GRATITUDE AND SAY A BIG 'THANK YOU' TO ALL OUR READERS FOR THEIR UNWAVERING SUPPORT. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SHARING MANY MORE EXCITING EDITIONS WITH YOU IN THE FUTURE.

NEW HONDA CIVIC TYPE R REGAINS

PRODUCTION VEHICLE FWD LAP RECORD AT NÜRBURGRING

Lap time of 7 min 44:881 sec, set on 2019 enforced longer circuit layout, beats current record for production FWD models.

Launched to international acclaim last year, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R continues to garner awards and accolades – the latest being the retaking of the production vehicle frontwheel drive (FWD) lap record at the infamous 12.92-mile (20.8km) Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit.

On 24 March, 2023, members from the Civic Type R’s development team completed a 7 minute 44:881 second lap around the daunting German circuit – nicknamed ‘The Green Hell’ –making it the fastest production specification FWD vehicle. This time was set on the revised, now longer (20.8km), track layout as defined by circuit management in 2019.

The Type R is propelled by a potent 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the most recent version of which cranks out 329PS and 420Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 275 km/h when combined with a new six-speed manual gearbox.

The redesigned, more streamlined exterior of the 2023 Civic Type R also played a role in

the record time, with sophisticated aerodynamic solutions like the angle of the high level rear wing and intricate underfloor components working together to produce real downforce.

Additionally, the multilink rear suspension and 35mm longer wheelbase than the preceding Type R are combined with a noticeably wider rear track to offer enhanced cornering stability over its predecessor. This feature was developed through continuous testing on the Autobahn and the Nürburgring.

“The Civic Type R was developed under the concept of ‘Ultimate Sport 2.0’, aiming to be the ultimate FWD sports model, instilling confidence and excitement with drivers that resonates in the heart,” explains Hideki Kakinuma, Civic Type R Large Project Leader. “Since the launch of the Civic TYPE R in 2022, we have received numerous positive response globally, far exceeding our expectations, but there was one more mission that we had to challenge - to be the fastest FWD model on the Nürburgring.

“Six years after the previous generation, we have reached a new dimension in the evolution of the Type R and the passion we put into it. To those who are already an owner of our latest Civic Type R and to those who are expected owners, we truly hope that you will love and enjoy the Civic Type R.”

EXPERIENCE MOMENTS THAT MATTER WITH MAZDA

Japanese principles are at the forefront of Mazda cars.

Every Mazda is built with you in mind. Each car is designed to move you emotionally as well as physically. This feeling of unification between the car and the driver is what Mazda refer to as Jinba Ittai. It represents the oneness between horse and rider, something wholly natural, like a true extension of your body that offers pure driving pleasure, and was inspired by Japanese tradition. Recognising how simple things and paying attention to the details may have a significant impact is one aspect of that.

Mazda brought this to life in a compellingly different way with our #MomentsThatMatter series. Mazda invited three guests and a friend to take a moment out with vehicles from the Mazda CX range. They had time to connect with themselves and those that matter, stepping out of their day to day routine to experience something different, with Japanese traditions at the heart.

Like life, driving is about how small moments make a big difference to joy in our lives

Each day started with a personalised Japanese wellness coaching session with Japanese wellness coach Saori, founder of Mogami (more details below). This was

followed by a Japanese-inspired activity and the opportunity to reflect on the moments that matter to them.

@Shellandthelittlies: My Japanese wellness sessions with Mazda really made me accountable to making small changes and focusing on the details that can make a big difference to my wellbeing.

@themumlife_styled: I’m so grateful for the most beautiful reflective day and it has taught me to savour moments of calm, even if they are alone in the car with your favourite song or catching up with your friend.

@YoannaHanbury :.. a reminder for myself to take it easy and enjoy the small moments in life.

Experience the oneness of driving – that connection is the passion and expertise that goes into designing all Mazda models

Mazda embrace Japanese culture and heritage in everything they do, and the Moments That Matter days are no different, showcasing Japanese culture all in the perfect surroundings of the Mazda CX range.

Visit us here at Norton Way Mazda to experience the Japanese principals that go into each Mazda car. See the designs up close or book a test drive to experience how your Mazda will drive.

NISSAN ELECTRIFIES THE COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW WITH THE TOWNSTAR EV: THE CENTREPIECE OF ITS ALL-STAR LCV LINEUP

The all-new electric Townstar will take centrestage as Nissan brings its All-Star LCV line-up to the CV Show in Birmingham this week.

Visitors to the stand will see Nissan’s brand new electric commercial vehicle joined by the mid-size Primastar and larger Interstar models, ensuring there’s something for everyone wanting to future-proof their business operations.

Michael Auliar, sales director at Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd., said: "This event provides an excellent platform for us to demonstrate our new-look LCV range. We look forward to connecting with attendees and sharing how Nissan can support their evolving transportation needs."

The brand-new Townstar EV is a cutting-edge electric van that aids consumers in adjusting to rapidly changing electrification trends, greater urbanisation, and shifting emissions restrictions.

The Townstar EV, which starts at £30,000 (CV OTR after PiVG*), sports an advanced electric drivetrain that has been enhanced with clever energy management and battery thermal conditioning technology. It is one of the most capable and adaptable commercial vehicles on the market right now thanks to this cutting-edge system, which offers a class-leading zero-emission range of 183 miles WLTP Combined (or up to 269 miles on the City Cycle).

The Townstar EV’s 45kWh battery offers both AC charging (11 kW or 22 kW) or DC CCS quick charging, the latter of which enables users to charge the battery from 15% to 80% in as little as 37 minutes. Battery thermal cooling combined with the 22kW AC and 80kW DC CCS charging is standard from Acenta grade onward.

Every Nissan LCV boasts an industry-leading five-year or 100,000-mile warranty, demonstrating Nissan’s continued commitment to quality. The Townstar EV expands on this offering with an eight-year warranty on the battery state of health up to 70%.

The Commercial Vehicle Show is taking place at the Birmingham NEC between the 18th – 20th of April. To see the impressive Nissan All-Star line-

up come and visit us on stand 5A52 in Hall 5.

The journey is on: Epic Pole to Pole electric vehicle expedition begins

Chris and Julie Ramsey, two electric vehicle (EV) adventurers, have begun their much awaited Pole to Pole trek amidst the huge, ice-covered Arctic Ocean. After doing a thorough safety evaluation, the team departed from the 1823 North Magnetic Pole. In order to reach the most distant location on Earth, the South Pole of Antarctica, in December, they will travel more than 27,000 kilometres (km) through North, Central, and South America.

The Pole to Pole team is attempting the challenge in a 100% electric vehicle because no vehicle has ever made the trip between these poles of the world. Chris and Julie have set out on a tour to demonstrate just how thrilling and capable electric cars are, in the hopes that this may hasten their adoption as a solution to the climate change.

The expedition-ready Nissan Ariya has undergone some minor modifications to help it cope with the extreme terrains that the team are set to face along their route. Most notably the suspension has been lifted and wheel arches extended to accommodate huge 39-inch tires that will help the car 'float' on deep snow and sea ice. No modifications were made to the Ariya's battery and powertrain, which remain standard, or the e-4ORCE system, Nissan's advanced electric all-wheel-control technology.

The couple will tow a cutting-edge renewable energy unit that incorporates an extended wind turbine and folding solar panels as they traverse the isolated polar areas. The Ariya's battery will be charged by the prototype during Chris and Julie's well-earned breaks from driving in the hazardous region by utilising the anticipated strong winds and extended daylight hours. The team hopes that by encouraging a switch to electric vehicles for upcoming arctic adventure, the charging innovation will leave a beneficial legacy.

PEUGEOT

PEUGEOT REVEALS SPECIAL LIVERY FOR LE MANS 24 HOURS

PEUGEOT HAS PRESENTED A SPECIAL ‘ART CAR’ LIVERY THAT ITS TWO 9X8 HYPERCARS WILL USE IN THIS YEAR’S LE MANS 24 HOURS.

The French firm revealed the bold colour scheme that will adorn both of its entries for the World Endurance Championship centrepiece on Monday at the Milan Design Week event.

Spanish artist J.Demsky produced the design, which draws inspiration from the double Le Mans-winning Peugeot 905 of the early 1990s with its choice of colours.

Peugeot design director Matthias Hossann commented: “The Peugeot 905 is an icon of the 90s whose energy and creativity we wanted to celebrate. J. Demsky shares this passion and this inspiration.

“The graphic strength of his art, referenced

but ultra-modern, transports the Peugeot 9X8 into a universe that mixes street art and technology.

“It's a veritable artistic performance to celebrate both automotive design and the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.”

The special livery will replace the standard, predominantly grey design used by Peugeot for the regular WEC campaign.

Paul di Resta, Mikkel Jensen and Jean-Eric Vergne will pilot the #93 9X8 for the marque’s first assault on La Sarthe since 2011, while Loic Duval, Gustavo Menezes and Nico Muller share the sister #94 machine.

Following a partial season entry the previous year, Peugeot has struggled to get off to a good start in its first full WEC season. Duval,

Menezes, and Muller achieved the team's best finish of fifth in the second round at Portimao last weekend after gearbox issues at Sebring caused significant delays for both cars.

THE PEUGEOT i-COCKPIT® TURNS 10: THE STORY OF A BOLD INNOVATION

The story begins in 2010 with the presentation of the PEUGEOT SR1 concept car at the Geneva International Motor Show, an elegant coupé-cabriolet that showcased some of the radical new thinking going on in PEUGEOT’s design studio. One of these ideas was a revolutionary driving position that turned the traditional codes of interior design and ergonomics on its head.

The PEUGEOT teams at the time sought

to create an interior architecture that was more emotionally engaging while yet being practical and comfortable. A small group of engineers and designers got to work right away, and soon the idea for a smaller steering wheel surfaced. PEUGEOT designers determined that the ideal location for this information was at eye level. Conventional steering wheels deployed a big wheel through which the instrumentation was viewed. A whole new system with a display known as the "head-up display" was made possible by this new location and a smaller steering wheel. A touchscreen display was integrated with this novel, ergonomic method to make the controls much easier to use and increase communication.

In 2012, the PEUGEOT 208 introduces

PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® to the market

The first generation of the PEUGEOT 208 caused a stir by introducing the i-Cockpit® as standard. It quickly established itself as an innovation that transformed the driver's experience:

• More driving pleasure: thanks to the compact steering wheel, the car is even more responsive to the driver's inputs, with less arm movement required to deliver the same amount of lock as a larger wheel.

• More driving comfort: the new placement of the instruments means there is less eye strain. The lower steering wheel allows the driver's arms to be positioned at more comfortable angles, and the central touchscreen allows the intuitive operation of the vehicle's main functions.

• Optimised safety: the compact steering wheel makes reactive inputs quicker, the elevated display makes the eyes more focused on the road, and the dashboard alerts are more visible. All this increases driver awareness and therefore increases safety.

The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® has not finished evolving

The story of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® is still in its infancy –more developments of this iconic and disruptive feature are to come as Peugeot accelerates its plan to become a fully-electric brand in Europe by 2030.

Whether it’s towing a boat on a bank holiday or a trailer for a track car, more than 18 million* extra drivers in the UK can now legally tow without any additional training thanks to a recent rule change. However,

Škoda UK research has found that 83% of drivers who had not towed before would not be confident to do so for the first time, with 65% claiming reverse parking was their biggest worry.

The law changed in December 2021, where fully qualified drivers will no longer need to undergo further training in order to tow a caravan up to 3,500 kg MAM (the "Maximum Authorised Mass"). This rule needed an additional licence and has been in force since 1997. However, just 14% of respondents were aware of the new regulations despite their implementation.

More over half (55%) of drivers who had experience pulling a caravan reported that reverse parking was the largest challenge, and 50% said that general reversing actions were problematic. Several of these drivers acknowledged running into objects while towing, including a gate post and a building corner.

The most common item towed by drivers was a caravan, with more than half of those that had towed having done so, followed by a trailer for equipment such as boats and jet skis, and then hauling a trailer tent with their vehicle.

Škoda finds four in five drivers lack confidence to start towing, despite 18 million more drivers now able to tow without additional training

Amid the change in law on towing, drivers can still face fines of up to £2,500 if the correct tow bar is not used. All towbars must meet EU regulations and be designed specifically for the vehicle. Meanwhile, extended mirrors should be fitted for an unrestricted view of the road to avoid an additional £1,000 fine.

Škoda UK has a strong history of catering to the needs of UK drivers towing trailers and caravans. A tow bar is available as on option on each model in the Škoda UK line-up, from smaller cars such as the Fabia, Scala and Kamiq, to larger vehicles like the Superb, Octavia, Karoq and Kodiaq, plus the all-electric Enyaq iV and Enyaq Coupé iV.

At the 2023 Caravan & Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year Awards, the koda Karoq was named Towcar of the Year. At the What Car? Tow Car Awards 2022, the Karoq and Scala both won top accolades. In the 1,550–1,699 kg weight range, the Karoq won, while the Scala won in the sub-1,400 kilogramme range.

With optional Trailer Assist and an electrically folding tow bar, the Koda Kodiaq L&K offers extra technology to make towing even easier. When backing up, it can manoeuvre a caravan or caravan autonomously to a predetermined location while simultaneously showing the driver a clear area view on the central touchscreen of the automobile.

The Kodiaq has a maximum towing weight of between 1,800 kg and 2,300 kg (depending on trim and specification) on gradients up to 8%. As well as Trailer Assist, other key assistance features on the Kodiaq can help drivers to tow safely and confidently. Blind Spot Detect uses sensors to monitor the area around the car, allowing it to detect other vehicles up to a distance of 20m for safe manoeuvring.

The Kia Niro PHEV & Kia EV6 both winning awards

The Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid has won a Red Dot Design Award for “Product Design”, celebrating Kia's commitment to creating innovative, high-quality vehicles that meet the needs of its customers while also staying at the forefront of cutting-edge design.

The Niro Plug-in Hybrid has an emotional yet rational aesthetic, following Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design ethos. The design helps inspire movement, notable features including angular ‘Heartbeat’ daytime running lights (DRLs), a distinctive Aero C-Pillar, a bold skid plate and cladding to enhance the electrified CUV’s rugged stance. Together with the latest version of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, the model feels distinctly Kia.

Choose from three electrified powertrains: battery-electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. All three variations have eco-friendly interior materials: such as recycled wallpaper in the headline, and PU vegan leather seat coverings, made from Eucalyptus tree derived Tencel.

The Red Dot Design Award is considered one of the most distinguished badges of design quality. Every year, a jury of international experts judge the entries for design quality and degree of innovation.

This achievement continues Kia’s long line of design award wins. The Niro Plug-in Hybrid win marks the 28th Red Dot awarded to Kia since 2009. Last year, the all-new EV6 won ‘Best of the Best’ for its pioneering design. In 2021, the Kia Sorento was the winner. Kia vehicles aren’t the only products to receive design accolades in recent years. In 2022, Kia’s ‘Moving Inspiration Project,’ a design installation highlighting the company’s brand philosophy in Italy, was given the award.

KIA EV6 GT: WORLD PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR 2023

Kia has excelled in this year's World Car Awards, with the Kia EV6 GT winning the 2023 World Performance Car.

Announced at an awards ceremony during the New York International Auto Show, the recognition came from a jury of distinguished automotive journalists from 32 countries. Having assessed a range of vehicles worldwide, including many from established premium manufacturers, this recognition of Kia continues to prove the brand’s dedication to producing innovative mobility solutions that benefit society, in line with its ‘Movement That Inspires’ ethos.

President and CEO of Kia Corporation Ho Sung Song spoke of the award: “To be recognised in this way by the World Car Awards’ judges is a tremendous honour. As Kia transforms to become a world-leading sustainable solutions provider, we are leaving no stone unturned to create vehicles which deliver exceptional practicality while also inspiring customers through their ingenuity,

technology, and design. This latest prestigious accolade provides further confirmation of the success of our strategy.”

Winning the 2023 World Performance Car of the Year award, the Kia EV6 GT builds on the success of the previous model, which won the 2022 European Car of the Year and the 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year titles, and other accolades.

With a combined power output of 430 kW (577bhp), enabling a 3.5-second 0-62mph acceleration time and a top speed of 162mph, the all-electric EV6 GT’s long-range capability, roomy interior, and sophisticated design saw it beat competition from traditional petrol-powered sports cars.

The EV6 GT follows Kia’s new brand direction, where movement is at the genesis of human development, enabling people to see new places, build new relationships, and have new experiences.

MG Cyberster debuts at Auto Shanghai

AN EXCITING NEW CHAPTER IN THE MG STORY HAS JUST BEEN ANNOUNCED AT AUTO SHANGHAI 2023 WITH THE COMPANY OFFICIALLY CONFIRMING PRODUCTION PLANS OF ITS UNIQUE HIGH-PERFORMANCE EV SPORTS CAR – CYBERSTER.

MG Cyberster debuts at Auto Shanghai

With its potent all-electric drivetrain and modern interior that includes cutting-edge driver electronics, the two-seat roadster represents the much-anticipated return of the renowned MG marque to sportscar production.

Carl Gotham, Advanced Design Director of the company’s Marylebone design studio in London, comments:

“Our intention was to create a completely new roadster ready for a new generation of sportscar drivers and which opens a bold and compelling new chapter for MG.”

“The focus for Cyberster was to create a design that was respectful of the brand’s illustrious past and to bring back that sporting bloodline, while also being absolutely clear that it should be modern and forward-facing like the MG of today, completely in-tune with the rapid transition to electric vehicles.”

With its characteristic long bonnet, low nose, and curved surfaces, Cyberster's evocative style pays homage to beloved roadsters from MG's rich history while also bringing eye-catching new features like its distinctive scissor doors and Kammback rear design.

MG reveals the new 2023 HS SUV

MG Motor UK has released pricing of the new, comprehensively updated HS – revealing a bold new design for the company’s best-selling flagship SUV.

The 2023 MG HS will continue to offer customers outstanding value for money, retaining the same pricing structure as the outgoing model, with the generously equipped SE specification starting from just £23,495 on the road.

The new HS has a sharper, more aggressive appearance after a thorough overhaul. The HS is once again recognised as MG's largest and most opulent SUV with bi-function LED headlights, a

striking grille, and a redesigned front bumper.

The new 18" diamond cut wheel design, a new bumper design, redesigned twin exhaust outlets, and LED taillights round out the modern new style update at the rear.

Both the SE and Trophy specifications of the new MG HS provide extensive equipment levels. At debut, a 1.5 litre, turbocharged petrol engine with up to 162PS will power all versions.

Standard transmission options include a manual and a dual clutch DCT gearbox; the latter is an option for SE and Trophy grades.

The interior of the new MG HS is furnished with high-quality, soft-touch materials, maintaining the previous generation's amazing amount of room and comfort. With improved hardware, the 10.1'' infotainment system now operates more quickly and smoothly.

The SE grade, which starts at £23,495 and includes air conditioning, satellite navigation, a rear parking camera with sensors, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry, and a leather steering wheel as standard, features bi-function LED headlights with front and rear sequential indicators for the first time.

Trophy specification, priced from £25,995, also includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual zone climate control, ambient interior lighting, rear privacy glass and an upgraded 6-speaker audio system.

One of the longest completely transferable warranties in its class, MG's renowned 7-year/80,000-mile warranty will continue to be offered to customers on all models. The HS line now offers Urban Grey for the first time as part of a vast seven-color palette that also includes solid, metallic, and tri-coat options.

HONDA TRIUMPHS AGAIN AT RED DOT DESIGN AWARDS

HONDA TRIUMPHS AGAIN AT RED DOT DESIGN AWARDS

The Red Dot Design Awards are a highly coveted accolade that honours exceptional product design that is aesthetically pleasing, practical, clever, or inventive.

The winners were chosen by a group of 50 worldwide specialists who tested and evaluated each submission. They represent the most recent consumer demands in terms of technology, society, economy, and ecology.

A product design prize went to the CB750 Hornet motorcycle. The resurrected nameplate is mounted on an ancestor-inspired middleweight naked sport bike with a brand-new 755cc parallel twin-cylinder engine and a brand-new, ultralightweight steel-diamond frame. The CB750 Hornet was created by Honda's design studio in Rome as a fresh, modern expression of technical beauty with crisp lines and forceful angles. The fuel tank, which is the principal distinguishing feature of the Hornet and is shaped after a hornet's wing, epitomises the muscularity and athleticism associated with motorbikes in the Streetfighter style.

The Red Dot judges also gave the XL750 Transalp its highest rating. The XL750 Transalp delivers the cosy all-purpose crossover to a new generation of riders, bringing the Transalp name back to Honda's motorcycle lineup after almost ten years. It is faithfully modelled after the legendary 1986 original XL600V Transalp but has a distinctly modern appearance thanks to the sculpted fairing and screen that work together to lessen buffeting and increase weather protection. It is powered by the same brand-new 755cc parallel twin-cylinder engine as the Hornet. The recognisable long-legged stance is still present, reflecting the adventurous spirit for which the bike is known. It is sleek, simple, and clean.

This year’s accomplishments bring the number of Red Dot Design Awards won by Honda to 13 since 2020, including a ‘Best of the Best’ accolade for the Honda e in 2020. Both it and the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP have since been inducted into the Red Dot Design Museum in Essen, Germany, one of the world's most significant exhibitions of contemporary design.

EXPLORE MORE BIKE NEWS HERE

We have been shortlisted in the Leader in Diversity & Inclusion category at this year's AM Awards.

We are proud our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workpace has been recognised. This nomination wouldn’t have been possible without our staff and their efforts in making this a key focus for our group.

The winners will be announced at the AM Awards gala dinner on May 11th, 2023, at London’s Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel.

Congratulations to all other nominees and we are looking forward to seeing our industry friends and colleagues at the evening.

Marubeni team at the Great British Fleet Awards

Corporate Director, Richard Siney, joined the Marubeni team at the Great British Fleet Awards Gala this week. We are delighted to say Marubeni Europower was Highly Commended in the Innovation in Technology category, for their V2G proposition which began as a Proof of Concept at our Norton Way Nissan, Letchworth dealership. We are proud to have supported Marubeni in this project and shows great collaboration across the group businesses.