News, reviews and previews from the glamorous world of motoring
Nevara Revamped
The Rimac Nevera R represents a sharper evolution of the brand’s electric hypercar. Introduced as a track-focused version of the Nevera, it boasts a range of upgrades aimed at improving performance and handling.
Key changes include adjustments to the battery, brakes, and suspension, alongside a revised steering system for greater precision. It also rides on Michelin Cup 2 Pilot Sport tyres with larger dimensions, and features updated torque vectoring for enhanced control.
Aerodynamic improvements include a fixed rear wing and larger diffuser, which increase downforce by 15% and aerodynamic efficiency by 10%. These tweaks help reduce understeer by 10% and boost lateral grip by 5%, aiding in quicker lap times.
The updated battery generates 2,107 horsepower, enabling the Nevera R to accelerate from 0-186 mph in 8.66 seconds, with a top speed of 256 mph. Rimac plans to build just 40 units, each customisable to match the Nebula Green paintwork showcased at its debut.
Rimac Automobil
www.rimac-automobili.com
Dynamic Duo
The 2025 Porsche Taycan range has expanded to 13 models, with a new Taycan 4 and a revised Taycan GTS now part of the lineup. The GTS, available as a sedan or Sport Turismo, gains a substantial performance upgrade, boasting 690hp with Launch Control – 100hp more than the previous version. A new push-to-pass feature offers an additional 10-second power boost.
This increase in power comes from an enhanced rear motor, upgraded software for the pulse inverter, and improved cooling. Charging has also been improved, with rates of up to 320kW now possible, alongside a maximum regenerative braking capacity of 400kW.
The GTS accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds, shaving 0.4 seconds off its predecessor’s time. The quarter-mile time is also quicker at 11.1 seconds. It comes equipped with the Performance Battery Plus as standard.
The Taycan 4, sitting above the base model, offers up to 429hp with the optional Performance Battery Plus and a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. It includes features like 19-inch wheels and Porsche’s advanced suspension systems.
Celebrating Motoring Heritage
London to Brighton Veteran Car Run celebrates 120 years of motoring history with vintage cars, pioneering women, and sustainable innovation
The first weekend of November 2024 witnessed a fantastic car spectacle with the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, launching the world’s oldest and longest-established motoring event, which also honoured women pioneers of motoring.
Over 10,000 visitors flocked to Pall Mall in central London to admire 70 pre-1905 vehicles and their period-dressed drivers and passengers participating in the St James’s Concours. These vehicles were lined up in front of the Royal Automobile Club, organisers of the world’s most prestigious beauty parade for vehicles from that pioneering period.
Many women drivers in period costume paid tribute to the 120th anniversary of the Ladies’ Automobile Club, founded in 1904 by several prominent society women with a shared interest in motoring. They organised their first driving event 120 years ago.
The Ladies’ Automobile Club was eventually absorbed into the Royal Automobile Club. By that time, however, it had made a significant impact in recognising women as motorists in their own right for the first time. This important achievement was celebrated during this year’s special Veteran Car Run, which took place on Sunday, 3rd November.
HRH Prince Michael of Kent, President of the Royal Automobile Club, was present alongside the Club chairman, Duncan Wiltshire, and was joined by TV and film personalities Rowan Atkinson, Ed China, and Alan Titchmarsh. An array of awards was presented, including a special prize awarded to Andrea Holden, who drove a 1902 Thomas specially imported from Australia for her to drive to Brighton.
The Overseas Award went to Herman Layher, whose 1894 Benz was the oldest car participating in the run. The Historic Award was presented to Rob Walton, the new owner of the rare 1903 Mercedes Simplex 60HP Roi des-Belges. This car was owned by the Harmsworth family for 121 years, from its production in 1903 until its record-breaking sale earlier this year for $12,105,000 (£9,508,287).
In contrast to the veteran cars with less than 10 HP, there was also a collection of modern hypercars, some boasting over 1,000 HP. These included an Aston Martin Valkyrie, Pagani Huayra Roadster, Koenigsegg Regera, McLaren P1, Porsche 918 Spyder, Aston Martin DB12 Volante, a Mercedes-Benz W196R streamlined Grand Prix car, and a Porsche 963 prototype from this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans. One of the gadget-laden Aston Martin DB5s built to promote the James Bond film Goldfinger was another major attraction.
On Sunday, 3rd November, Joy Tacon and Queenie Louwman performed the pre-dawn ritual of tearing up the red flag to signal the start of the run. Around 400 veteran cars departed Hyde Park at daybreak, heading for Brighton on the 60-mile journey to the Sussex coast.
The evocative field of three- and four-wheelers headed south through Wellington Arch. While the majority of the pre- 1905 pioneers are petrol-driven, some are powered by steam, and there are even a few very early electric vehicles.
Additionally, with a focus on the future, increasing numbers of the veterans are running on sustainable fuels. All four of the veterans entered by the Royal Automobile Club ran on such a drop-in fuel provided by SUSTAIN. A notable development, especially for those who have recently purchased electric cars.
Advanced Comfort
The Lotus Emeya introduces a fresh standard in how a Lotus drives and performs, combining decades of engineering expertise with the latest in modern technology. It’s an electric vehicle designed for precision, exhilaration, and stability.
Key features include active aerodynamics, such as an adjustable front grille, rear diffuser, and spoiler. These elements, alongside a low centre of gravity referred to as “hyperstance,” provide excellent balance and control, raising expectations in the GT category.
Its electronically controlled air suspension adapts to road conditions 1,000 times per second, delivering a smoother and more stable experience. The top-tier dual motor setup achieves speeds over 155 mph and accelerates from 0-62 mph in under 2.8 seconds, placing the Emeya among the fastest electric GTs.
Built with sustainably sourced materials, it reflects a conscious effort to reduce environmental impact. A bespoke KEF sound system, including Dolby Atmos technology, ensures every occupant enjoys an enriched auditory experience. The Emeya represents Lotus’ evolving future in electric motoring.
