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The Most Anticipated Rolls-Royce of All-Time: the Rolls-Royce Cullinan

 “Tested to destruction” all over the planet, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan finally brings real luxury to the off-road experience and is primed to be one of many highlights of the Luxury & Supercar Showcase. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan will be featured at the 2018 Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase, bringing most attendees their first look at the automaker’s blend of luxury and off-road travel.

While it may not be the first luxury brand to include an SUV in its lineup, Rolls-Royce is determined to have the best one, and its name is Cullinan. This is Rolls-Royce as it’s never been seen before. When Sir Henry Royce said, “Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist, design it”, he may have had the Cullinan in mind.

Rolls-Royce has introduced an all-terrain, high-bodied car that makes the idea of authentic, luxury off-road travel a reality for the first time. Luxury travel is now effortless and everywhere.

Twelve Cylinders & a Whole Lot of Tech

Rolls-Royce has a history of genuine off-road credentials. In the early 20th century, Rolls-Royce vehicles quickly developed a reputation for reliability and durability in extreme conditions. Maharajas in India drove Rolls-Royces along rough and rugged dirt roads — as did wealthy sheep farmers through the Australian terrain. Lawrence of Arabia commanded a fleet of nine Rolls-Royces in the Sinai Desert during World War I, six of them bodied as armored cars. So an off-road SUV may have always been in the automaker’s natural progression.  

Under the Cullinan’s hood is a 6.75 liter, twin-turbo V12 pushing out 563 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This is the same engine Rolls-Royce uses for its iconic Phantom, which also shares the SUV’s aluminum-intensive platform. The famous “magic air ride” feel that rendered the Phantom peerless has also been re-engineered by adding larger air struts with greater air volume, and by strengthening the drive and prop shafts to cushion blows from the toughest terrain.

Featuring all-new, all-wheel drive and an all-wheel steering system — the first in Rolls-Royce history — the Cullinan reaches a top speed of 155 miles per hour. 

Inside, Rolls-Royce unveils a new, thicker steering wheel for the Cullinan, augmented with a high-resolution, heads-up display and all the expected technology from the luxury giant: night vision, including wildlife and pedestrian warning, a four-camera parking system with panoramic and helicopter view, active cruise control, myriad crash-avoidance systems, Wi-Fi, and the standard navigation and entertainment systems. The first “three-box” car in the SUV-sector, Cullinan’s rear partition wall separates passengers from the luggage compartment to create a unique comfort and luxury environment.

The Final Challenge

In a series of online videos, the Rolls-Royce teamed with National Geographic to debut the Cullinan’s capabilities. The episodes document the vehicle conquering three continents and 12,000 miles of the world’s toughest terrain — including deserts, mountains, and tundra — and navigating the roughest conditions with ease.

Breathtaking camera work showcases the vehicle’s unique Rolls-Royce aluminum space frame, rear-axle steering and all-wheel drive making smooth work of each “extreme” terrain. Check out more information on the final challenge here, or view the full episodes here.

Simply Put — It’s Pronounced

The imposing frame of the Cullinan stands six feet off the ground—four inches taller than its closest competitor — the Bentayga — and more than 500 pounds heavier. Contemporary and functional design ensures the Cullinan will gain iconic status in the face of increasingly bland SUV designs.

Approach the Cullinan and it lowers roughly 1.5 inches for easy entry, rising back to normal position upon startup. The air suspension has adaptive damping and was built specifically with a degree of off-road luxury in mind — but a Rolls-Royce kind of off-roading, with a spotlight on smooth transitions. A lone off-road button is all it takes to prep the vehicle for whatever terrain you can throw at it, and it will even ford over 21 inches of water if needed.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the incredibly capable off-roader in person at the 2018 Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase — tickets of all levels are available at LuxurySuperCarShowcase.com 

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Commission The World’s First Full-Size Luxury SUV Coupe: The New Range Rover SV Coupe

50 years ago, Land Rover introduced the Range Rover- the first installment of what would become one of the most popular luxury segments. This year, Land Rover introduced another game-changer, bringing the 2-door aesthetic to the 4-door luxury world.  The Range Rover SV Coupe was created by Land Rover Design and Special Vehicle Operations as an exemplar of Range Rover design, craftsmanship, and capability. And as if Land Rover couldn’t make this seductive design more desirable and exclusive, only 999 of the Range Rover SV Coupe will be hand-crafted by SVO for clients across the globe.

“The Range Rover SV Coupe is a celebration of the Range Rover Bloodline,” said Gerry McGovern, Chief Design Officer, Land Rover. “With a dramatic two-door silhouette, this breath-taking four-seat Coupe alludes to its unique heritage while being thoroughly modern and contemporary. Beautifully realized and superbly engineered, the Range Rover SV Coupe delivers the most distinguished, luxurious and exclusive Range Rover ever built.”

The exclusivity of this new Range Rover line brings the opportunity for individual expression to our most passionate Land Rover Range Rover Clients. In confidential commissioning sessions, the most passionate of Land Rover Range Rover owners can curate a vessel that will quite simply steal the show with new features including:

  • Carefully curated body color combinations, including a new Contour Graphic available in four duo-tone colorways.
  • Unique side vent and grille designs
  • 23-inch wheel option
  • The signature floating roof, continuous waistline and tapering tail
  • Semi-Aniline leather front seats with a gradated diamond quilt design
  • The choice between four front-to-rear contrast interior colorways or single tone
  • Choice of three wood veneers like the Nautica veneer (fusion of walnut and sycamore together).

For a truly curated experience, the Jaguar Land Rover Design team selected bespoke badges, exterior paint, and interior materials to provide the choice of seven design packs to clients sporting various themes including Modernist and Heritage.

It’s the fastest-ever full-size Ranger Rover, reaching top speeds of 165 mph and powered by a 557 hp, 5.0-liter supercharged V8 powertrain. It’s the most powerful engine offered by on the full-size Range Rover, so the new SV Coupe can accelerate 0-60 in 5.0 seconds.

For more information on the exclusive SV Coupe click here.

If you’re interested in commissioning your own Range Rover SV Coupe, contact Park Place Jaguar Land Rover for more information.

 

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Calling All Car Clubs: New Opportunity and Registration Extension for Luxury & Supercar Showcase

Calling All Car Clubs – New Opportunity for Oct. 13
Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase at Four Seasons Resort & Club Dallas at Las Colinas

Deadline extended to Sept. 15 to submit cars for Collectors’ Concours 

 

Park Place Dealerships’ Selection Committee has extended the deadline to September 15 to register a vehicle for the Collectors’ Concours at the second annual Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase, to be held Saturday October 13, 2018 at the Four Seasons Resort & Club Dallas at Las Colinas. In addition, Car Clubs are invited to enter the best of their club in a new Car Club Showcase area.

“We have already received some spectacular cars for consideration in the Collectors’ Concours,” said Brian Ratcliff, co-chair of the Judging Committee for the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase. “From vintage and classic to contemporary and supercars, we’re looking for those rare and exclusive cars that you don’t often see at area car shows. We’re also reaching out to DFW car clubs to invite them to showcase some of their best vehicles in our Car Club Showcase. The clubs will be grouped together across from the VIP Area in the Porsche Pavilion.” 

Trophies designed by Dallas sculptor Brad Oldham, best known for his Traveling Man installation in Deep Ellum, will be awarded for Best of Show, Chairman’s Choice and Salesmanship Club winners in the Collectors Concours. Awards from Bachendorf’s will also be given to Best In Class winners in each of the 10 classes, and First and Second Place winners in each class. In addition, there will be a People’s Choice Award for the Best in the Car Club Showcase.

To submit a vehicle for consideration, visit www.luxurysupercarshowcase.com and click on Register Vehicle. The show is limited to 150 selected cars that register and are approved by the Selection Committee. Once accepted there will be a $75 entry fee per vehicle, which includes two VIP All-Access Passes ($200 Value), car signage and show credentials, among other benefits. Entries for the Car Club Showcase can also sign up online. Just click on the “Car Club” tab. For more information, email info.showcase@10.2.54.33.

The luxury lifestyle event benefits the Momentous Institute, owned and operated by the Salesmanship Club of Dallas since 1920, which is committed to building and repairing social and emotional health for children. Each year, the organization serves more than 6,000 children and family members through its nationally acclaimed Momentous School and innovative Therapeutic Services. 

Last year’s inaugural event featured more than 100 cars from private collectors in the Collector’s Showcase, including Best In Show – 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost; Chairman’s Choice Award – 1938 Bugatti 57C Atalante; Salesmanship Club Choice Award – 1952 MG Roadster; Best In Class – VINTAGE – 1933 MG Magna L-Type Racer; Best In Class – CLASSIC – 1996 Porsche 911 Twin Turbo; Best In Class – CONTEMPORARY- 2009 Aston Martin DBS; and Best In Class – EXOTIC/SUPERCAR – 2009 Koenigsegg CCXR.

The 2018 event will feature a fashion show by Highland Park Village, live entertainment, specialty boutiques, and a Kid’s Area presented by Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, featuring the North Texas Diecast Collectors Club’s interactive Hot Wheels track, freshly popped popcorn, a soda pop truck and games. Many of Dallas’ favorite food trucks will also be on scene providing a vast array of delicious options.

The 2017 Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase sold out. Tickets to this year’s event range from $25 – $50 for general admission and $100 for VIP All Access, including the VIP Lounge with complimentary food and beverages. Tickets are at LuxurySupercarShowcase.com.

Participating restaurants featured in the VIP lounge include LAW, OUTLAW Taproom, Dallas Chop House Burger, Dallas Fish Market, Wild Salsa, Oven and Cellar, Taverna, Bistro 31, Kai, Toulouse Café and Bar, Lombardi Family Catering, Cool River Café, III Forks Restaurant, Frost 321 and Make Your Life Sweeter, as well as several other restaurants.

Park Place represents some of the most coveted manufacturers in the world, including Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, Maserati, McLaren, Bentley, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover and Lotus, all of which will be prominently featured at the event.

Partners to date include the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, Allie Beth Allman & Associates – A Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate, Urban Realty, Celebrity Cruises, Hill & Wilkinson, Irving CVB and Irving Chamber, The Trade Group, Bachendorf’s, Brad Oldham Sculpture, RideCentric, Hagerty Insurance, Perks & Provisions, Peroni Beer, Lilium Florals, Lisa R. Daniels, Digital 3 Printing, Fauxcades, Promo Resources, The Vineyard at Florence, Sunnyland Outdoor Furniture, ExxonMobil, Dealer Industries, Garages of Texas, Ratcliff Financial Services, Steinway & Sons, D Magazine, and NBC 5, among others.

About Park Place Dealerships:

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn. Today, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 2,000 people and operates 16 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Jaguar, Lotus, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Bugatti, McLaren, and Maserati. A new Porsche dealership will open in Grapevine this summer. For more info, visit parkplace.com.

 

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Park Place Porsche Opens In Grapevine

 Park Place Dealerships opened its 17th dealership, Park Place Porsche, today in Grapevine, Texas. The two-story, 68,000-square-foot Porsche dealership is situated on five acres and is located off Texan Trail and SH 114 near Park Place Motorcars, Park Place Lexus and Park Place Jaguar Land Rover.

With a thirst for the product coupled with the brand’s reputation for providing a great driving experience, Porsche enthusiasts will appreciate Park Place Porsche Grapevine’s new showrooms which can accommodate up to 21 different vehicles. Visitors will see the full range of models, such as the 911, Cayman, Boxster, Panamera, Macan, and Cayenne.

“This is one of the largest Porsche dealerships in the country and we designed the space to bring the brand to life so clients can explore the iconic brand making the experience their own,” said Ken Schnitzer, chairman of Park Place Dealerships. “Porsche has a long and renowned history with a loyal customer base that continues to grow. With the new Macan and 911 coming out in the next year, Northeast Tarrant County is a prime location for this brand.”

Porsche Cars North America recently announced retail sales in June were up 8.3 percent compared to year-over-year sales, recording the sixth consecutive monthly record since January. The United States is the largest single market for Porsche, with U.S. buyers accounting for 28 percent of 911 purchases worldwide.

“The expansion of Porsche into Northeast Tarrant County allows us to introduce the brand to potential new owners and to better meet the needs of current clients,” said Schnitzer. “With a facility of this size, we have lots of room for clients to experience every Porsche model in a comfortable setting year-round and to service their vehicle in our state-of-the-art service center.”

The multi-million-dollar project features a shop with 28 service bays, a comfortable client lounge, boutique, and a large service drive for the optimum client experience.  Park Place Porsche Grapevine will be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified based on the building’s focus on energy savings, water, resources, and generating less waste. Good, Fulton & Farrell was the architectural firm for the project with Hill & Wilkinson handling the general contractor duties.

This is the second Porsche dealership for the company and the fourth dealership in Grapevine which opened Park Place Lexus in 2000, followed by Park Place Motorcars relocating from Bedford in 2011, and Park Place Land Rover Jaguar opening last July. Park Place continues to lead the automotive industry with innovative offerings such as a subscription service. Launched earlier this year, Park Place Select is the first subscription service offered in Texas by a dealership group and offers subscribers three tiers of vehicles to align with a client’s lifestyle and budget.

Park Place also opened an auction house this year in Plano for registered dealers and wholesalers. Park Place Auto Auction offers hundreds of vehicles each week from its dealerships across North Texas. 

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn. Today, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 2,000 people at 17 full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Jaguar, Lotus, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. For more information about Park Place Dealerships, visit parkplace.com.

 

 

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Porsche Oil Changes: Three Things To Know Before You Go

Receiving an oil change at a manufacturer certified service center has key advantages to maintaining your high-performance vehicle. While cost and service time are increased, we provide first-class quality, expertise, and additional services that clearly distinguish our premier level service experiences from a typical “oil change” job at a quick lube establishment.  At Park Place Porsche, we employ certified technicians who perform the routine services, such as your oil change, to ensure the entire process is completed to meet both manufacturer and Park Place standards of quality. For more info read a similar blog on things to know before Your Park Place oil change experience.

Here are three things our highly trained team of Porsche experts want you to know before booking your Porsche’s next oil change:

  1. At Park Place Porsche, we use the same oil as the Manufacturer does in the factory.

Mobil One Synthetic (factory filled oil) is the same oil the Porsche factory uses from day one. New Porsche models only require changing once a year or every 10,000 miles (older models require a change every 7.500 miles) so a quality oil is a must.  Bottom line, this is the best oil for your Porsche.

2. A Porsche “Oil Change” service can take about 90 minutes to complete before the wash or any additional administrative time for the advisor.

Porsche’s have a large oil capacity- up to 10 quarts on some engines. The old oil must be completely drained from the vehicle. To do this, our technicians must heat the engine up to operating temperature to thin out the oil and allow it to then drain for a minimum of 20 minutes.

Additionally, your vehicle’s fluid levels and fault memory are read out and the team performs a 27 point inspection.  The next 20 minutes are spent filling the engine with oil to capacity. To do this the engine is brought up to operating temperature and filled with new room temperature oil.  Our technicians check the oil levels with a computer because the majority of new Porsche models do not have dipsticks (older may have a dipstick present)- a process that takes three minutes and is repeated until the engine registers full.

After the entire oil change process is completed, the Porsche technician usually spends 90 minutes with the car during the actual service. Reference the video below to understand exactly all that goes into an oil change from our Dallas Service Manager, Mark. 

3. You receive more than an “oil change” when choosing to service with the certified dealership.

The term oil change has been used frequently in conjunction with quick lube establishments promising quick service and low cost. The dealership provides more value to the client’s experience by including car washes, loan cars, resetting computers, Porsche trained technicians, warranty repairs, a beautiful facility, and a client lounge for those who wish to wait for their service to be completed. Therefore, a Porsche dealership experience cannot be compared with a quick service only facility with the factors of time or money.

 

 

For a once a year service, the cost and time related to an “oil change” experience at Park Place Porsche is more than worth it.   If it’s your dream to own a Porsche, then protecting your investment is too important to our team to simply offer a quick drain and fill service.  Have any questions or would like to start your next service booking? Visit us at ParkPlace.com/Service-Appointments

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Track Focused, Yet Road Legal: The McLaren 600LT Makes Its Debut

The quickest, most powerful and most track-focused – yet road legal – Sports Series McLaren made its debut at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The arrival of the new 600LT, which is built to excel on roads and race circuits alike, marks both the beginning of the next chapter in the McLaren ‘Longtail’ (LT) story and the setting of a new benchmark for super-sportscar performance.

Contact Mclaren Dallas to Reserve Your Mclaren 600LT

Contact McLaren Houston To Reserve Your McLaren 600LT

“The new McLaren 600LT is our most extreme road-legal Sports Series model and possesses the optimised aerodynamics, increased power, reduced weight, track-focused dynamics and enhanced driver engagement that are the hallmarks of any McLaren ‘’LT’. Only the fourth McLaren in more than two decades to be designated a ‘Longtail’, the 600LT redefines expectations of super-sportscar performance, delivering astonishing acceleration and outstanding track cornering speeds with a truly extraordinary dynamic connection between driver and car.”- Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The new McLaren 600LT epitomizes the McLaren philosophy of producing lightweight super-sportscars that deliver extreme performance and are exceptionally rewarding to drive. With the engine management system of the 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 recalibrated and less back pressure from a top-exit exhaust system that is even shorter and more extreme than that of the McLaren Senna allowing the engine to breathe more freely, the 600LT can call on peak power of 592bhp at 7,500rpm and a maximum torque output of 457lb ft at 5,500-6,500 rpm. These outputs deliver astonishing levels of performance: 0-62mph takes just 2.9 seconds, matching the acceleration of the revered McLaren 675LT Super Series model (0-60mph in just 2.8 seconds). 0-124mph is achieved in a remarkable 8.2 seconds and the 600LT can continue gathering speed to a top speed of 204mph.

Inspired by the renowned McLaren 675LT models and their iconic ‘Longtail’ McLaren F1 GTR racing predecessor, the new addition to the LT family has all the physical hallmarks of a true McLaren ‘Longtail’, including an extended front splitter, lengthened rear diffuser, fixed rear wing and elongated silhouette – in this case by 2.9in compared to a McLaren 570S Coupé. The unique bodywork optimizes aerodynamic performance, working in conjunction with the flat carbon fiber floor of the 600LT to produce the 220.5lbs of downforce at 155mph that generates more grip and greater high-speed stability and is a significant contributor to the car’s excellence on a track.

Extensive use of carbon fiber – including for the monocoque chassis that is some 25 percent stiffer than a comparable aluminum chassis and for the new aerodynamic features– together with lightweight materials throughout the track-focused cockpit, helps the McLaren 600LT to achieve a lightest dry weight of 2,749lbs and an equivalent power-to-weight ratio of 474bhp/ton. With the optional Super-Lightweight Carbon Fibre Racing Seats developed for the McLaren Senna fitted, the 600LT weighs 220.5lbs less than a 570S Coupé – a remarkable reduction that delivers tangible benefits in every aspect of the car’s performance. 

McLaren 600LT buyers wanting to go to another level of weight-saving can specify the MSO Clubsport or MSO Clubsport Pro packs from McLaren Special Operations. The MSO Clubsport Pack, which adds $29,370 to the price of a new 600LT, features the Super-Lightweight Carbon Fibre Racing Seats; a Carbon Fibre Interior Upgrade that includes extended gearshift paddles and steering wheel spokes and switch and IRIS display surrounds in the lightweight material; Carbon Fibre Roof and Cantrails, Visual Carbon Fibre Fender Louvres in gloss finish; and titanium wheel bolts.  The MSO Clubsport Pro Pack, which adds an MSO Defined Harness Bar and 6-Point harness for track use, in either black, blue, red or McLaren Orange, is priced at $34,600. The Super-Lightweight Carbon Fibre Racing Seats are available as a stand-alone option, costing $6,060.

The remit of any McLaren ‘Longtail’ model is to engage and excite to the absolute maximum, encouraging – and enabling – drivers to fully exploit the dynamic performance inherent in the car. The ethos underpinning every aspect of the development of the McLaren 600LT was therefore a determination to deliver the purest possible connection between car and driver.  To this end, the McLaren 600LT has lighter and stiffer suspension components from the McLaren 720S, the adoption of the forged aluminium double wishbones and uprights not only improving dynamic capabilities, but also reducing weight by 22.5lbs. Ride height is reduced by 8mm over other Sports Series models and front track is increased by 10mm, to deliver a more precise driving experience. The independent, continuously variable adaptive dampers and front and rear anti-roll bars featuring on all McLaren Sports Series models have been retained but are significantly re-engineered to work with the new suspension geometry and create the track-focused performance demanded of the new 600LT.

The adoption of the braking system from the McLaren Super Series, which features lightweight aluminium calipers and stiffer carbon ceramic discs, reduces weight by 8.8lbs, working in conjunction with an all-new brake booster developed using learnings from the McLaren Senna, the result is incredibly responsive and progressive pedal feel during braking and a 124mph to standstill distance of 383.9ft – just 3.3ft more than a McLaren P1™.

Two new designs of ultra-lightweight aluminium alloy wheels – 10-spoke as standard and a 5-spoke alternative as a $4,950 option – are the lightest wheels ever fitted to a Sports Series, the reduction in unsprung weight bringing a noticeable benefit to the dynamic qualities of the car.

Bespoke P Zero™ Trofeo R tires – developed with McLaren Technical Partner, Pirelli – feature for the first time on a Sports Series model and this unique track-focused tire is a crucial element in the enhanced dynamic abilities of the McLaren 600LT. Tuned to deliver the immediacy and steering feel for which McLaren is renowned, as well as excellent rear axle stability, the ultra-high-performance tire features a softer sidewall structure than is usual to improve compliance and so grip levels by ensuring the contact patch with the ground is maintained, even on less-than-perfect surfaces. By contrast, the belt construction of the Trofeo R tire is stiffer than on any previous Sports Series, to enhance lateral acceleration and improve cornering ability.

The cockpit of the McLaren 600LT exemplifies both weight reduction and a driver-focused environment. Lightweight Alcantara ® trim material is used extensively throughout and the absence of carpet in the driver and passenger footwells and beneath the seats saves 12.6lbs, while also exposing the carbon fiber beauty of the MonoCell II chassis construction. The glovebox has been removed and the door pockets replaced with lightweight nets, while air-conditioning, satellite navigation, and an audio system are all available as no-cost options, not being fitted as standard. Carbon fiber Racing Seats, first seen on the McLaren P1™ and subsequently used in the McLaren 675LT, are standard-fit and save a remarkable 46.3lbs.

Production of the 600LT Coupé will begin in October 2018 and last for around 12 months, with build slots scheduled around existing Sports and Super Series models, as well as the sold-out Senna, Senna GTR and BP23.  Availability will be strictly limited, the specialist carbon fiber body panels that require specialist tooling just one of the reasons that the new ‘Longtail’ will be rarer than its Sports Series brethren. 

Available to order now from McLaren Dallas and McLaren Houston – subject to availability – the 600LT Coupé is priced from $240,000 (US), which includes** a Pure McLaren Road Owner Track Day at a race circuit, with expert driving tuition.

To discover more about the new McLaren 600LT, visit: http://cars.mclaren.com/sports-series/600lt. A film showing the car in action can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/KCzFQy0px7M.

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Help Raptors by Stuffing a Lexus Trunk at Park Place Lexus Plano

Park Place Lexus Plano collecting items for Blackland Prairie Raptor Center

When you hear Park Place Lexus Plano is helping raptors, you might think it’s a tie-in with the latest Jurassic Park movie.  But these raptors are even more awe-inspiring. The Blackland Prairie Raptor Center in Lucas rescues orphaned, sick and injured raptors – birds of prey such as eagles, ospreys, hawks, falcons, owls, kites and vultures. It treats the injured raptors, rehabilitates them, and then releases them back into the wild.

Founded in 2004, the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center is located on Lake Lavon in the 66-acre Brockdale Park. It is home to a permanent collection of 18 education raptors (birds who can never be released back into the wild due to the nature of their injuries,) an 8,000-square-foot flight cage, and a clinic to house up to 800 patients per year.

“I attended Blackland Prairie’s annual Ribs n’ Raptors fundraiser last fall,” said Greg Duerr, Park Place Lexus Plano Parts Manager. “I bid on a ‘Release the Raptor’ experience in the auction and had the opportunity to release a Red-tailed Hawk. It was such an incredible experience, I wanted to do more to help the organization. I talked with our leadership at Park Place Lexus and we came up with this Stuff the Trunk event to provide some basic materials the center needs on an ongoing basis.”

Park Place Lexus is collecting items through the end of July that includes: brooms, scrubbing pads, laundry detergent, bleach, hand soap, cotton balls & swabs, disposable exam gloves, paper towels, Ziploc bags, pill dividers, flashlights & batteries, leather gloves, safety glasses & goggles, box cutters, five-gallon buckets, wire snips, pliers, hammers, screwdrivers, 18v cordless drills, drill bit sets, deck screws, rakes, shovels, 25-foot tape measure, staple gun & staples, clamps (all sizes), WD40, heavy-duty hoses, copier paper, permanent markers, and more.

Donations are being collected daily 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Friday and 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday until the end of July at the Lexus dealership: 6785 Dallas Parkway (W. Spring Creek Parkway at Dallas North Tollway) in Plano.

“Our largest expense is food for the raptors,” said Erich Neupert, Blackland Prairie Raptor Center Executive Director.  “We spent more than $30,000 last year on food. People can donate online at bpraptorcenter.org/donations/or through the AmazonSmile program. Just select the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center as your designated charity while shopping on AmazonSmile.com and we receive a portion of every purchase.”

The Blackland Prairie Raptor Center is open to the pubic the first Saturday of every month at 1625 Brockdale Park Road (off FM3286) in Lucas. Ribs n’ Raptors will be held in November 2018. More information is available at http://www.bpraptorcenter.org

 “If you find a baby bird on the ground, the best thing to do is just leave them alone,” explained Neupert. “If they look injured, give us a call at 972-442-7607.”

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships in 1987 with a single Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn. Today, Park Place Dealerships employs more than 2,000 people and operates 16 full-service dealerships. For more info, visit parkplace.com.

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Douglas Schnitzer Leads Park Place Select as Director of Operations

Douglas Schnitzer is certainly no stranger to Park Place Dealerships, but as he leads our newest revenue venture, Park Place Select, as the Director of Operations, a “get to know you” introduction was an absolute must. After going through a question-and-answer session, one thing is clear- Park Place Select is in very capable, intelligent, and extremely driven hands.

Where are you from? Born and raised in the Bayou City of Houston, Texas.

Who is your role model and why? My grandfather, Ken Schnitzer, Sr., who unfortunately passed away in 1999, remains a role model of mine to this day. He was a hard-bargaining businessman, a charismatic leader, and a generous philanthropist. He valued honesty, integrity, and loyalty, and he treated people with the utmost dignity and respect. These are also values that I hold in high regard, and I strive to emulate him in my life.

When did you begin your career at Park Place? I began my career at Park Place in 2010 as an Assistant Service Manager at Motorcars Dallas. After spending several years pursuing opportunities in other industries and obtaining a graduate business degree from the University of Texas at Austin, I rejoined the company in 2017 on the sales floor of Porsche Dallas.

What led you to join the Park Place Team? In many ways, the automotive industry remains fairly archaic and tends to abide by the mantra of “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Park Place as a company encourages and rewards innovation and is constantly looking for ways to improve in order to remain at the forefront of the industry, as evidenced by the new Park Place Select subscription service. There is a forward-thinking nature that permeates the organizational culture, and that is something I wanted to be a part of.

Can you recount a specific moment or experience that led you to the automotive industry? I can remember a trip to Dallas – I was probably 15 years old – when my father brought my brother and me by the Mercedes dealership, which was still on Oak Lawn at the time. Like any kid, I was completely enthralled by all of the cool cars. We ended up test driving an SL500, and when my dad let me take it for a lap around the block, I was hooked. I have been interested in the business ever since.

What passions do you have that have driven your success at Park Place? I tend to be very analytical by nature. As you know, this is a very complex business, and I have always enjoyed the challenge of diving into the data and financials to understand what makes companies tick. I am also so privileged to work and collaborate with a group of incredibly intelligent and visionary professionals who take great pride in the success of the company as a whole. Their collective enthusiasm is a great motivating force.

How did you become affiliated with Park Place Select? In mid-February, Mr. Grossman called me and asked if I could come to his office for a meeting that afternoon. I honestly didn’t have a clue what the purpose of the meeting was, but my eyes immediately lit up when he asked if I would be interested in helping lead Park Place Select, the new subscription business, which was scheduled to roll out in early May. This was a once in a lifetime chance to be involved with a cutting-edge business concept that will be transformative to the way consumers think about their transportation needs – it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

How is Park Place Select going to be successful this year?  Park Place Select will be successful by creating memorable experiences and meaningful moments for our clients. Through a passionate focus on service, our concierges will develop a strong rapport with our clients and be able to truly understand what is meaningful to them, in order to provide personalized service that exceeds their expectations.

What’s the key component of the Park Place Select experience? The key component of the Park Place Select experience is the flexibility and convenience afforded to the members combined with an unparalleled selection of vehicles. Through the user-friendly mobile app, we are able to match members with the perfect vehicle for any occasion. You could drive a Mercedes S-Class during the work week, flip into a Porsche Boxster for a Friday date night, then flip into a Range Rover for a weekend road trip. This is truly a revolutionary service that gives members the ability to meet the changing needs of their lifestyle without owning multiple vehicles.

Any additional comments regarding new programs and initiatives that we can look forward to in 2018? We are currently evaluating the possibility of adding a “Premier” tier to the Park Place Select subscription program, which would include many of the vehicles available through the Premier Collection, among others. Exciting times!  

Edit January 2020: The Premier Tier was successfully added to the program.

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Summer Cruising 101: How to Protect Yourself From Summer UV Rays

Imagine driving down the freeway with the top-down, feeling the shift in the wind against your skin and seamlessly embracing each and every curve on the open road. Is there anything that beats this type of driving experience on a sunny day? Not at all, but with the summer sun comes some serious risk for drivers and passengers without proper sun protection.

Park Place works with our community of local business to enhance our client experience, and provide clients with exclusive offers to enjoy because we simply appreciate that you chose Park Place as Your Place. TropicSport, a Park Place Preferred Partner, gives us the scoop on some best practices to protect your skin and the environment so your car’s top can stay down all summer long. Tropicsport is kindly offering 20% off an online order  with the code PARKPLACE20%

UVA vs UVB:  What’s the Difference?

There are 2 types of harmful UV rays from the sun:  UVA and UVB.  UVA (think A for Aging) rays have a longer wavelength and cause more long-term effects such as wrinkling and aging of the skin – and of far greater concern – skin cancer.   UVA rays are year round, they are not temperature dependent or even impacted by weather as 80% penetrates the fog and clouds.  UVB (think B for Burning) rays have a shorter wavelength and are the ones that cause sunburn and skin cancer.

Don’t the Windows Protect me from UV Rays?

While car windshields typically block out UVB rays, studies show that they only partially block UVA rays.  Side and back are not regulated and let these rays in. 

A study in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology revealed that nearly 53% of skin cancers in the US occur on the left, or driver’s side of the body.  UV exposure is 5 times greater on the left arm and 20 times greater on the left side of the face!  This left-side sun exposure triggers sun damage, which can cause wrinkles, skin leathering, sagging and brown ‘age’ spots.  The more time you spend driving, the higher the risk of skin damage.  Research shows that all types of skin cancers are more common on the left side of the body. Add the right side and the top of your head, and sure, the breeze feels great but you may not realize just how strong the sun is.

Do not fret, your top-down luxury cars are still perfect for the summer. We just recommend taking some of the pointers below into account, so you and your luxury auto can enjoy the sun all summer long: 

1. Wear an SPF 30 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

  • Apply sunscreen before getting into the car to your face, ears, arms, neck, scalp & hair part. 

2.  Wear SPF 30 Lipblam and Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.

3. Wear a hat, preferably a wide brim, and Sunglasses with UVA and UVB filters to protect your eyes from cataracts and delicate skin around your eyes. 

  • Pro-Tip: long sleeves are a great option to protect your arms.

4. Consider closing your convertible roof between the peak sun hours of 10 am to 2 pm to avoid a major, direct sun hit.

So now you know how to protect yourself, but what will you choose to arm yourself with against the sun? We would highly recommend TropicSport sunscreen because it’s Born from Nature.  It is a natural mineral sunscreen with non-nano titanium dioxide and zinc oxide and lacks ingredients that are hard to pronounce. TropicSport is free of toxic chemicals like oxybenzone and avobenzone. 

Remember, an ounce of prevention – or sunscreen, in this case – is worth a pound of cure! TropicSport is offering Park Place Clients 20% off with the code PARKPLACE20% at www.TropicSport.com

TropicSport is one of our newest preferred partners, so as a Park Place client we encourage you to visit them and take advantage of their exclusive offer of 20% using the code PARKPLACE20%

 

 

Click to view more about the Park Place Preferred Benefits Program

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The 2018 Bentley Bentayga Breaks SUV Record at Pikes Peak

The Bentley Bentayga is far from merely extravagant; it’s power and prowess, utility and sport, and the true personification of “no stone left unturned” from the stitching to the powerhouse of the luxury SUV. Similarly, Pike’s Peak 

boasts quite a record of its own- standing against the test of time as a place of hikers, campers, nature lovers, family adventurers, and now W12 engines with about 600 horses (hp).  

With almost a 5.0 rating on Google, Pikes Peak is reportedly quite the challenge for man and machine, and one that the 2018 Bentley Bentayga dominated at the annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The course is 12.42-miles where vehicles are challenged to climb almost 5,000 feet and attack 156 corners. The Bentayga averaged 66.5 mph, decimating the current record by nearly two minutes with Rhys Millen, a Pikes Peak Hill Climb veteran, at the helm. And no, the SUV wasn’t tricked out with upgrades and modifications to make the climb, but rather to comply within challenge guidelines, the winning SUV was as close to standard production as possible- with the front seats being replaced with racing seats and the back seats being removed among other small modifications.

 

Rhys Millen, Bentley Bentayga at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2018. Photo: James Lipman / jameslipman.com
Rhys Millen, Bentley Bentayga at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2018.
Photo: James Lipman / jameslipman.com

Speaking immediately after his run, Rhys Millen commented:

 

“What an incredible machine. To take a luxury SUV with minimal modifications and be able to drive up this course in under 11 minutes is a huge testament to the performance and level of engineering in the Bentayga. I had a great run – the car was planted all the way up and gave me the confidence I needed to push hard. I’m delighted to take the SUV record for Bentley and for everyone that’s been involved in this project.”

The Pikes Peak Bentayga, a tangible Testament to A Brilliant Record

Bentley announced after the run on Pikes Peak, that they are releasing a Limited Edition Bentley Bentayga, the Pikes Peak Bentayga that will only produce 10 vehicles. The Pikes Peak Bentayga once again leaves no need, want, or luxury left unaddressed. Bentley’s in-house bespoke and coachbuilding division, Mulliner, is personally behind the handcrafted and eye-catching creation of this achievement on wheels.

The 10 production vehicles will showcase a few exterior updates including:

  • Ether a deep Beluga black paint or striking Radium
  • 22” wheels in a bespoke two-tone finish of Beluga with Radium accents
  • All exterior chrome replaced with gloss black components
  • Carbon fiber splitter, side skirts, diffuser, and rear spoiler.

The interior matches the grandiose specifications for the outer shell, including:

  • Key lime accents with Beluga leather
  • Alcantara inserts in seats and doors
  • Eliade cloth headliner
  • Pikes Peak logo on the carbon fiber fascia

Bentley’s Member of the Board for Sales & Marketing, Chris Craft, comments:

“This record proves the outstanding dynamic ability of the Bentayga – demonstrating again how Bentley Motors is the only automotive company in the world that can combine pinnacle luxury and breath-taking performance. Congratulations to all at Bentley Motorsport and to Rhys Millen and his team.” The Pikes Peak Bentayga will be available for order from August for clients in the US and Europe. A V8 Version of the standard SUV is set to release in 2019. For more information on this Pike’s Peak Feat, visit the Bentley Newsroom.