Father and Son Share Their Luxury & Showcase Story

The Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase attracted 2,750 car and luxury lifestyle enthusiasts from around the country. From the Kid Concours featuring a show case of mini, battery powered McLarens and Bentleys, luxurious bites and drink, to the rows of collector’s showcasing their vintage, classic, modern, and exotic vehicles, the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase was an event for all ages to enjoy.

The inaugural event was also an opportunity for the various generations of car enthusiasts to converse and exchange ideas, stories, tips, and of course, luxury car ownership dreams. For some, this was an opportunity to see a bounty of pretty awesome vehicles in one location, for others- especially our pint-sized car enthusiasts- the Luxury & Supercar showcase was an opportunity to interact with cars they’ve only seen on TV, featured in a movie, or written about in an article, and further rev their inspiration to one day purchase and drive their very own.

Prior to the showcase, Park Place Dealerships requested clients and others who have had a Park Place experience to share why Park Place was their place, for an opportunity to attend the inaugural event. The winning story, shared by Robert Green of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, read:

“My son loves cars. We drove down for his birthday just to see your cars. He loved every minute of it and thank you for making his day.”

Robert’s son, Gavin, could not have been more excited for the chance to see an even larger lineup of exotic vehicles first hand, choosing to sacrifice his first soccer game of the season to claim his ticket. Even his soccer coach was ecstatic for Cade to have this opportunity, providing his blessing to miss the first game of the season for what he declared a “once in a lifetime opportunity.”

After consulting with the Park Place team, Robert even took Cade shopping to find the perfect “concours casual” outfit, which was expertly fashioned head to toe. The morning of the event, this father and son pair arrived promptly to get the first look- and Cade’s enthusiasm was contagious. “He loves exotic cars, and dreams of owning one someday,” said Robert, “My favorite part of this whole experience was watching him smile and listening to him talk about all the cars how rare some of them are.”

The highlights of the show? Robert’s favorite feature vehicle was the Bugatti Veyron, which sat adjacent to a 1938 vintage Bugatti. As an added bonus, he was able to snap with Richard Rawlings, founder of Gas Monkey Garage and personality on the show Fast N’ Loud.

For Cade, his favorite memory was to see the McLaren 720 S up close and personal. As we look to the future of this event, it is no doubt this is not the last we have seen of Cade Green. Thanks to his passion for exotic autos, his father’s support, and fervent determination to fulfill his dream of owning his very own McLaren, there’s a good chance we might see Cade on the conours as a collector in the future.

Do you have a story from the Supercar Showcase you’d like to share? Visit us at www.YourParkPlace.com, and scroll to the bottom of the home page. Fill out the Your Story form and submit a photo for an opportunity to be featured on the website.

September 25, 2017September 25, 2017

The New 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom Makes an Appearance at the Luxury & Supercar Showcase

With over a century of automotive heritage, Rolls-Royce and the brand’s owners BMW, have provided the world with some of the most opulent and iconic symbols of luxury on the market. In 1925, the Phantom was dubbed the “the Best Car in the World” and since its grand introduction, every single new Phantom that has debuted has unquestionably retained that very same title. The 2018 model sets a new precedence for supreme perfection and visionary engineering, undoubtedly pointing Rolls-Royce Motors forward into a new age for the global luxury industry.

The New Phantom benefits from a wholly new business model employed by the BMW Group, which includes the Architecture of Luxury- a brand new all-aluminum space frame architecture designed by Rolls-Royce engineers. The VIII is the first edition- but not the last- to sport this new architecture, reducing its weight and creating a lighter and stiffer framework, which will contribute to creating a more comfortable riding experience. In fact, the new Phantom is 30% more rigid than its predecessor, foreshadowing how this new architecture is at the core of how the next generation of Rolls-Royce will deliver enhanced experiences without compromise.

In addition to its new architecture, the new Phantom also benefits from a re-imagined V12 engine…a completely silent v12 engine. The new engine includes two turbo charges that contribute to a low-end torque output of 900Nm at a low 1,700 rpm, while still delivering 563bhp of power. This provides a low, calm speed progress associated with state occasions and an un-affected surge of power when deemed necessary. Thanks to the addition of Satellite Aided Transmission and a ZF *-Speed gearbox, the driver is fully prepared for anything the road may have in store.

The design remains elegant and preserves the iconic 2:1 proportions featured in every generation of Phantom, accentuating a short, upright front, and long, flowing rear overhang. The side frame finisher of the New Phantom is the largest single piece of hand-polished stainless steel on any motor car. Another single polished stainless steel strip embellishes the sill of the Phantom Extended wheelbase for clear differentiation.

The Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase Attendees received a rare and exclusive look this next generation Rolls-Royce, as the inaugural show received the vehicle straight from Pebble Beach. Keep your eye out for more information on the 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, the world’s newest leading luxury item, and the next chapter in Rolls-Royce’s automotive story.

September 13, 2017

Inaugural Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase Sells Out

Park Place Dealerships Donates $30,000 to Momentous Institute

Ladies in stylish hats and gentlemen dressed in resort attire strolled the rolling hills of the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas September 9th amid some of the world’s most rare and beautiful automobiles.

Park Place Dealerships donated $30,000 to the Momentous Institute in celebration of their 30th anniversary. Owned and operated by the Salesmanship Club of Dallas since 1920, the Momentous Institute has been committed to building and repairing social and emotional health for all children so they can achieve their full potential. Each year, the organization directly serves more than 6,000 children and family members through its nationally acclaimed Momentous School and innovative Therapeutic Services.

Guests at the inaugural Park Place Dealerships Luxury & Supercar Showcase were among the first in Texas to see the new 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom, arriving straight from Pebble Beach. They also had the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with an extraordinary 1500-horsepower, $3 million Bugatti Chiron, while comparing the modern supercar to its vintage ancestor: a rare 1938 Bugatti that escaped demolition during Mussolini’s war effort by being disassembled and smuggled across the border under cover of darkness. Guests also saw Bentley’s first luxury SUV – the Bentayga, supercharged McLarens, Maseratis, a Porsche 918 Spyder and 919 Hybrid, the new Lexus LC500, Jaguar F-Type SVR, a Mercedes-Benz-AMG GTC Roadster, Volvo XC90, Range Rover SVR and many more new vehicles.

More than 100 cars from private collectors competed in a juried Collector’s Showcase, including a 1965 Shelby 427 Cobra once owned by Carroll Shelby, a 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, a ‘54 Jaguar XK120SE, ‘57 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible, ‘60 Porsche 356B Roadster, ‘61 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, ’71 DeTomaso Pantera, ‘72 Fiat Dino Spider, a one-of-a-kind ‘99 BMW M Roadster, 2009 Koenigsegg CCXR, 2010 Aston Martin DBS, 2015 Lamborghini Huracan, and many others.

The Collector’s Showcase winners included:
Best In Show
1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost
John Wampler (with his dog Lady Jane)

Chairman’s Choice Award
John Ridings Lee – 1938 Bugatti 57C Atalante
Salesmanship Club Choice Award
Corky Helstrom – 1952 MG Roadster
Best In Class – VINTAGE
Jeff Wildin – 1933 MG Magna L-Type Racer
Best In Class – CLASSIC
Michael Mann – 1996 Porsche 911 Twin Turbo
Best In Class – CONTEMPORARY
Paul Grussendorf – 2009 Aston Martin DBS
Best In Class – EXOTIC/SUPERCAR
Eddie Lee – 2009 Koenigsegg CCXR

In addition to the lineup of rare and exotic vehicles, guests enjoyed fashions by NorthPark Center, exquisite food and beverages by Four Seasons’ LAW and OUTLAW Taproom, Dallas Chop House Burger, Dallas Fish Market, and Cool River Café. Several food trucks were also on-site.

Guests also enjoyed live music, specialty boutiques with upscale offerings by Bachendorf’s, Niven Morgan, Sovaro, Mulberry, Montblanc, RIMOWA, Rebecca Taylor, and even a Kids Concours presented by Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, featuring a special Hot Wheels interactive area, drinks from Pecos Pete’s All Natural Tea and Soda shop, freshly popped popcorn, and big yard games.
Partners included Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, Hill & Wilkinson, Celebrity Cruises, Irving CVB and Chamber, Absolut Elyx, Perrier Jouët, Peroni Italy, Brad Oldham Sculpture, Bachendorf’s, The Trade Group, Fernic Building Maintenance, Lisa R. Daniels, Digital 3 Printing, D Magazine, NBC 5, Celebrity Cruises, LAW, OUTLAW Taproom, Dallas Chop House Burger, Dallas Fish Market, Cool River Café, Marie Gabrielle, Frost 321, Perks & Provisions Company, Sugaire, and Lilium Florals.

Plans are already underway to grow the Luxury & Supercar Showcase into an annual event.

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships 30 years ago 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, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, Bugatti, Lotus and Maserati. Park Place recently opened a new Land Rover Jaguar dealership in Grapevine. A new Porsche dealership will debut next year in Grapevine. For more info, visit parkplace.com

August 17, 2017October 2, 2018

10 Do’s, Don’ts, and Friendly Suggestions for the Luxury & Supercar Showcase

Rev your engines and prepare your palette – the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase is just around the corner.

Click For Tickets And Event Information

Some of the world’s most extraordinary and exotic vehicles will be on display, accented with luxurious fashion displays, high performance entertainment, refreshing beverages and delicious bites sure to satisfy the taste buds. With all of the excitement, Park Place and our friends at Hagerty and NorthPark Center want to ensure all our attendees are armed with the Supercar Showcase “dos, don’ts, and friendly suggestions” that are sure to create an enjoyable atmosphere for attendees, volunteers, and Collectors alike.

This list offers insight into car show etiquette, fashion tips to help you find your perfect ‘Concours Casual’ style outfit, and finally, some unique offerings that you can’t miss on the day of the showcase.

1. “Look, But Don’t Touch”

This platinum rule of car shows must be followed out of respect and admiration for the heritage of the vehicles on display, but also to preserve the months (or even years) of hard work the Collectors have put into their amazing show case cars. Our friends at Hagerty inform that no Collector wants their pride and joy to be smudged, scratched, or dinged no matter how well intentioned the show-goer may be. So, unless instructed otherwise, please remember to respect and admire the Collector’s hard work by looking and not touching the showcase entries.

2. Choose Your Accessories Wisely

We understand how important it is for our show-goers to look just a fabulous as the exceptional vehicles on the Concours, but please choose your accessories wisely. Hagerty recommends avoiding wearing lots of jewelry on your hands and arms. Rings, watches, bracelets, and purses are some of the more obvious culprits for accidentally scratches on the cars, so please be aware of any other buttons, zippers, and belt buckles that could incur more subtle damages. Be sure to check out our fashion and style tips from NorthPark Center for some style inspiration so you can pick out the perfect accessories for your day on the Concours.

3. Women’s Fashion Do’s Courtesy of NorthPark Center: Stay on Trend with Dusty Pinks and Feminine Floral Prints.

Dressing for the fall season doesn’t have to mean dark colors and heavy fabrics, especially in Texas. Stay on-trend with dusty pinks and feminine floral prints. Featured items are available at the NorthPark Center.

Featured Pieces:

Demetria Dress, Elie Tahari

Starburst Earrings, David Yurman

Byrdie Handbag, Kate Spade

Loretta Platform Sandal, Tory Burch

4. Keep a Close Eye on Your Children

Of course we encourage you to share your hobby with your super car lovers in training, but Hagerty reminds all parents to please teach your young ones to be careful as they enjoy the thrill of the car show experience.

5. Stop by the ‘Kids Concours’

The Kid’s Concours Presented by Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children will include a variety of activities your young car enthusiast is sure to enjoy. This fun and engaging experience for the younger enthusiasts will feature a Hot Wheels interactive exhibit and access to refreshing beverages from Pecos Pete’s All Natural Tea and Soda Shop.

6. Men’s Fashion Do’s Courtesy of NorthPark Center: Upgrade Your Basic Blues

Upgrade your basic blues with a sharp jacket and lightweight shirt. Textured calfskin loafers provide high style and all-day comfort. Like what you see? The featured fashion pieces are available at the NorthPark Center.

Featured Pieces:

DUDSONJ Sport Coat, Ted Baker

Cotton Casual Shirt, Canali

Cotton Chinos, BOSS Hugo Boss

Penny Loafer, Salvatore Ferragamo

Engineer Belt, Frye

7. Step into our Climate Controlled Pavilion

Park Place will be hosting industry experts, lifestyle segments, and live entertainment throughout the day on the main stage in the Porsche Pavilion. The agenda will be available onsite and in our commemorative program.

8. Pack Your Purse with Super Car Showcase Essentials- Courtesy of NorthPark Center’s Style Experts

The clandestine items a woman keeps in her handbag is known only to her- but a pair of chic sunglasses, hydrating hand cream, a neutral card case , and a bright pop of lipstick should top her list.

Featured Items:

Darley Handbag, Mulberry

Artist Rouge Lipstick in Plum Violet, MAKE UP FOR EVER

Tea Sunglasses, Coach

Intrecciato Leather Card Case, Bottega Veneta

Shea Butter Hand Cream, L’Occitane

9. Have Your Program Autographed by Notable Motorsports Stars

We will be hosting a meet and greet with some famous faces from the world of Motorsports. Bring your one-of-kind event program signed and make it a keepsake to remember meeting some of foremost experts on the track face to face.

10. Don’t Forget toTag @ParkPlaceTexas

We’d love to hear and see how you enjoyed the event. Use our tag @ParkPlaceTexas and #YourParkPlace so we can re-live Park Place’s 30^th Anniversary Super Car and Luxury Showcase long after the event is over.

Bonus Tip: Pair your concours casual outfit with a stand out hat to snap the perfect Instagram-worthy photo next to one our luxury vehicles. Love your photo? Post to Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter with the tag #YourParkPlace and we may share your photo!

Special thanks to NorthPark Center and Hagerty for their expert advice as we prepare for a day spent in luxury.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Champions Way entrance on the rolling hills adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas on September 9th! To purchase tickets click here.

June 28, 2017July 3, 2017

Park Place Dealerships Luxury & Supercar Showcase Promises Some of the World’s Most Luxurious and Exotic Vehicles

Park Place Dealerships partners with Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas for Public Event benefiting Momentous Institute

The mere mention of luxury automobile brands Rolls-Royce, Bugatti, Maserati, McLaren, Bentley, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Volvo, Lotus, Jaguar and Land Rover is enough to evoke excitement in car enthusiasts. When you combine rare and unique offerings from these prestigious brands with trendy fashion and lifestyle elements, live local and regional music, and delicious food and drink, spread across the rolling hills of the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, you have a unique single day festival that also raises money for a worthwhile charity: the Momentous Institute. For one day only, Park Place Dealerships will bring all of its luxury brands together in one venue for the Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, September 9.

“This year marks our 30^th year of business in North Texas,” said Park Place Dealerships founder and chairman Ken Schnitzer. “In 1987, we purchased a Mercedes-Benz dealership on Oak Lawn and have been fortunate to grow our brand by offering unparalleled customer service and creating a comfortable environment for clients. For the first time in our history, the Supercar Showcase brings all of our brands together in one location for a rare opportunity for guests to enjoy and support kids in the community.”

The Park Place Luxury & Supercar Showcase event will be open to the public with tickets ranging from $25 – $50 for general admission up to $100 for VIP All Access, including the VIP Lounge with complimentary food and beverages. Tickets are available online at www.LuxurySupercarShowcase.com

“We are proud to partner with Park Place Dealerships on this truly remarkable event in September,” said Dirk Burghartz, Regional Vice President and General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Club Dallas at Las Colinas. “Four Seasons believes in giving back to the community, and we are honored to be the host venue for such an event that continues to provide charitable dollars to the well-deserving Momentous Institute – a 35-year friend of ours. I am personally excited about the future of this luxury and supercar showcase, and look forward to seeing it grow over the years.”

In addition to the incredible lineup of rare and exotic vehicles, guests purchasing VIP All Access passes will have the opportunity to sample culinary specialties from the Four Seasons’ LAW and OUTLAW Taproom, Dallas Chop House Burger, Dallas Fish Market, and selections from Cool River Café’s new menu featuring a collaboration of Chefs Kent Rathbun and Fernando Rodriquez, as well as other trending restaurants. VIP guests will also receive drink vouchers for celebratory sips from Absolut Elyx and Perrier Jouet along with other crafted cocktails from Pernod Ricard in the VIP Lounge. Several food trucks also will be on-site.

Within the family-friendly event will be a juried Concours Invitational Car Show featuring a diverse selection of rare supercars, luxury, sports, and classic cars from private collectors. Trophies designed by Dallas sculptor Brad Oldham, best known for the Traveling Man installation in Deep Ellum, will be awarded to Best of Show, Chairman’s Choice and People’s Choice winners. Bachendorf Crystal awards will be given to First Place winners in each of the four classes. To submit a vehicle for consideration, go to www.LuxurySupercarShowcase.com and click on Register Vehicle. The show is limited to 100 selected cars that register and are approved by the PPLSS Acceptance Committee. Registration forms must be received no later than Saturday, August 11, 2017. Once accepted, there will be a $50 entry fee per vehicle, which includes 1 VIP All Access Pass ($100 Value), Car Signage and Show Credentials. For more information on registration, email info.showcase@10.2.54.33.

The Luxury & Supercar Showcase will feature presentations and meet & greets with automobile and racing industry experts such as Park Place Motorsports driver Patrick Lindsey and his No. 73 Porsche 911 GT3R. There will also be specialty boutiques with stunning fashions and upscale offerings by retailers such as the Brad Oldham Studio Store, Bachendorf’s, Niven Morgan, Sovaro and others.

Partners include Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, Absolut Elyx, Perrier Jouët, Brad Oldham Studio Store, Bachendorf’s, D Magazine, NBC 5, Celebrity Cruises, LAW, OUTLAW Taproom, Frost 321, Perks & Provisions Company, Dallas Chop House Burger, Dallas Fish Market, Cool River Café, and Lilium Florals.

Momentous Institute, owned and operated by Salesmanship Club of Dallas since 1920, has been committed to building and repairing social emotional health for all children so they can achieve their full potential. Each year, the organization directly serves more than 6,000 children and family members through its nationally acclaimed Momentous School and innovative Therapeutic Services. Additionally, Momentous Institute invests in research and professional training, including the annual Changing the Odds conference, to reach far more children than they could ever serve directly with trauma-informed strategies that strengthen social emotional health. More info at http://momentousinstitute.org/

Ken Schnitzer founded Park Place Dealerships 30 years ago 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, Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, McLaren, and Maserati. Park Place’s new Land Rover Jaguar dealership opens July 1 in Grapevine. A new Park Place Porsche dealership debuts in Grapevine next year. For more info, visit parkplace.com.

About Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas

Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas is a 400-acre resort property conveniently located in Irving in the heart of the Dallas/Fort Worth area and just minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field regional airport. It features a 431 room hotel with golf villas, two championship 18-hole golf courses, 41,000 square feet of meeting space, expansive recreational facilities including indoor and outdoor tennis, jogging tracks, racquetball, fitness center, restaurants, three swimming pools and child care center. It is also home to the Four Seasons Golf & Sports Club, a private club inviting memberships for those interested in fitness, tennis and golf. For more information, visit us online at www.fourseasons.com/dallas and www.thesportsclubfourseasons.com. For press releases, image requests, hotel facts and more, visit our online press room at http://press.fourseasons.com/dallas/.

June 20, 2017June 20, 2017

Volvo Cars Celebrates the Human Side of Safety Technology in New XC60 Film

“Sometimes the moments that never happen matter the most.” This is the beguiling thought that lies behind Volvo Cars’ new XC60 film. But what does it mean?

Taking a typically human approach, Volvo has captured the essence of how advanced safety technology has the power to change the lives of people both in and around the car.

The film follows a young girl’s journey to her first day at a new school and shows a glimpse of what life holds for her in the coming years – growing up, travelling the world, settling down and raising a family. All of this comes to an abrupt stop as the girl steps out in front of an oncoming Volvo car. The Volvo’s safety system detects the girl and applies its autonomous emergency brake, preventing what could have been a life-changing collision. The film ends with a conclusion: “Sometimes the moments that never happen matter the most.”

Over 1.2 million people die in traffic accidents around the globe each year, but Volvo believes its vision of an injury and fatality-free future can soon be a reality.

Volvo Cars presented several new safety features with the launch of the new XC60. A steer support functionality has been added to Volvo’s City Safety autonomous emergency braking system, while a new system, Oncoming Lane Mitigation, uses steer assist to help mitigate head-on collisions. Volvo’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) has also been updated with a steer assist function to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions.

The new XC60 replaces Volvo’s highly successful original XC60, which was the bestselling premium mid-sized SUV in Europe with more than a million units sold globally since its debut in 2008.

“This film featuring the new XC60 highlights how important active safety systems have become and reflects Volvo’s leadership in this area. We launched our City Safety autonomous emergency braking system as standard equipment in all new Volvos back in 2008, starting with the first generation XC60. Today, these systems are finally becoming an industry standard,” said Anders Gustafsson, Senior Vice President, Region EMEA at Volvo Car Group.

Ninety-four per cent of all accidents are caused by human factors. By using advanced safety technology Volvo believes it can help to reduce the human factor in traffic accidents.

“Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Volvo Cars. It always has been and it always will be. With this film we hope to remind people why we continue to focus on car safety, and how important it is for us all,” said Björn Annwall Senior Vice President Global Consumer Experience at Volvo Car Group.

In Sweden alone, Volvo has seen a decline of around 45 per cent in rear-end frontal crashes thanks to its collision warning with autobrake system.

“We have been working with collision avoidance systems for many years and we can see how effective they are. With the XC60 we are determined to take the next step in reducing avoidable collisions with the addition of steering support and assistance systems. At Volvo we take that extra step – we protect people inside and outside the car whenever possible,” said Malin Ekholm, Vice President, Volvo Cars Safety Centre.

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Volvo Car Group in 2016

For the 2016 financial year, Volvo Car Group recorded an operating profit of 11,014 MSEK (6,620 MSEK in 2015). Revenue over the period amounted to 180,672 MSEK (164,043 MSEK). For the full year 2016, global sales reached a record 534,332 cars, an increase of 6.2 per cent versus 2015. The record sales and operating profit cleared the way for Volvo Car Group to continue investing in its global transformation plan.

About Volvo Car Group

Volvo has been in operation since 1927. Today, Volvo Cars is one of the most well-known and respected car brands in the world with sales of 534,332 cars in 2016 in about 100 countries. Volvo Cars has been under the ownership of the Zhejiang Geely Holding (Geely Holding) of China since 2010. It formed part of the Swedish Volvo Group until 1999, when the company was bought by Ford Motor Company of the US. In 2010, Volvo Cars was acquired by Geely Holding.

As of December 2016, Volvo Cars had over 31,000 employees worldwide. Volvo Cars head office, product development, marketing and administration functions are mainly located in Gothenburg, Sweden. Volvo Cars head office for China is located in Shanghai. The company’s main car production plants are located in Gothenburg (Sweden), Ghent (Belgium), Chengdu and Daqing (China), while engines are manufactured in Skövde (Sweden) and Zhangjiakou (China) and body components in Olofström (Sweden).

June 13, 2017

The 718 Boxster: For the Sport of It

The new Boxster is the sequel that continues the 718 era. At their heart, a four cylinder turbocharged boxer engine beats the same fighting spirit that delivered countless podium finishes. In them lives the will to break away from standards. And to inspire conviction. So it is entirely appropriate that they too should bear these three digits in their name and carry the 718 legend forward.

The new 718 models were made for the sport of it. They are mid-engined roadsters that unite the sporting spirit of the legendary Porsche 718 with the sports car of tomorrow- and transfer it to the road’s of today’s world. With one goal: to take the everyday out of every day.

Compared with the previous models, the result is a new, decidedly more striking design, an even sportier chassis setup and a host of new performance, comfort, and assistance systems. And, of course, up to 350 units of turbocharged horsepower. Only one question remains unanswered: what are you still waiting for?

June 12, 2017October 24, 2018

It’s Electric (Literally) the Jaguar I-Pace Concept

Come late 2018, Jaguar is gearing up to release to their dealer network a revolutionary new concept to the world of electric vehicles (EVs), providing 516lb-ft of instant torque, 400 HP and 0‑60 mph in around 4 seconds. The Jaguar I-PACE is the ultimate electric performance SUV, designed to expertly combine the thrilling and distinctive Jaguar performance with electric vehicles. The I-PACE is a battery powered electric vehicle with two electric motors supplied by on-board rechargeable batteries- that means zero carbon emissions without sacrificing the unmistakable Jaguar driving experience. In early fall, Park Place Jaguar Land Rover DFW had an exclusive test drive opportunity, but come the next couple of months, more clients will have the ability to test drive the first all-electric Jaguar.

The I-PACE’s aerodynamic hood scoop, flush door handles, and bold air ducts help the car ride efficiently through the air, maximizing the EV’s range so you can ride in class the duration of your journey. Electric vehicles provide a more refined driving experience and eliminate the need to ever visit a fuel station again. The concept of electric vehicles is not new to the automotive industry, but there are various engine/motor combos that make up the EV market today. So- what are the differences? Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) traditionally have a small battery charged by the engine and regenerative braking resulting in a small electric range. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) can be charged from an external source of electricity and typically have a larger battery with a longer range than an HEV. Both offer smaller electric-only ranges and are heavier than conventional cars, but can continue running without access to electricity because of their dual power sources. Most of all, these hybrids reduce a driver’s “range anxiety.” The I-PACE Concept is a 100% battery electric vehicle, which means it does not have a secondary power source like the Hybrid, making it lighter, faster, and more efficient- making one’s journey that much more thrilling.

Sleek, spacious, and eco-friendly to boot, this legendary evolution of performance cars can fit up to five adults comfortably in the main cabin. With no need for a traditional combustion engine or transmission, there is not just enough, but ample space to provide a practical, yet luxurious riding experience for every passenger. Looks like 2018 is going to be electric.

Stay tuned for more information from Park Place Jaguar Land Rover DFW on upcoming Test Drive and Order opportunities.

May 4, 2017May 4, 2017

Park Place Premier Collection Reveals New McLaren 720S

The valet in front of the DEC on Dragon Street in the Design District resembled an exotic car show as a seemingly endless parade of McLaren, Porsche, Bentley and Rolls-Royce supercars arrived with a symphony of snarling and guttural engine notes. Park Place Premier Collection recently unveiled the new McLaren 720S, the second generation model in the Super Series segment, to an invitation-only crowd.

Guests enjoyed the Speedy Kiwi craft cocktail made with Reyka Vodka and modern bites like seared ahi tuna and lobster tacos while awaiting the electrifying reveal, which was orchestrated to a pulsating light show.

Designed with a new, lighter carbon-fiber chassis and powered by an astonishing 710 horsepower twin turbo, 4.0 Liter V8, the beautiful beast can leap from 0-to-60 mph in 2.8 seconds. Perhaps even more impressive, it will rocket from 0-to-124 mph in only 7.8 seconds, and tackles the quarter miles in just over 10 seconds with a top speed of 212 mph. And it does so with unparalleled control due to the innovative Proactive Chassis Control II, developed using advanced algorithms in a Cambridge University doctoral program. But don’t worry; it’s still ultimately driver-focused. Variable Drift Control allows the driver to determine the amount of drift and oversteer the traction control allows before intervening.

Twin-hinged dihedral doors sweep forward and up to an 80-degree angle for easy access to the stylish cockpit. The 720S generates 50-percent more downforce than the 650S, double the overall aerodynamic efficiency and 15-percent more efficient cooling. The integrated rear spoiler automatically adjusts to the optimal aerodynamic needs. It adapts to its most extreme airbrake angle in less than half a second to stop on a dime.

Starting at $289,000, driver engagement was clearly the focus for the design and technology behind the new 720S. But it also offers features to make this supercar supremely comfortable as a daily driver. Because even supercar drivers need storage, the 720S features best-in-class storage; static, adaptive headlights that follow the cars directions even on steep corners; and 360-degree park assist with four cameras, four front parking sensors and four rear sensors.

Mere words and photos are incapable of describing this stunning supercar. Stop by the Park Place Premier Collection, located at 5300 Lemmon Avenue near Love Field, to get up close and personal with this ravishing beauty.

April 11, 2017November 1, 2019

Designed in Sweden and built in Italy – the Volvo 262C turns 40

Forty years ago, Volvo turned perceptions of what its brand stood for upside down. The Volvo 262 Coupé left no one unmoved and sold significantly better than expected, despite costing more than twice as much as the basic model in the 200 series.

The Volvo 264 was presented in the autumn of 1974, and two years later it was time for Volvo’s first six-cylinder estate: the 265. But that was far from the end of it – at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1977, perhaps the most unexpected model version saw the light of day: a two-door coupé with heavily slanting windscreen pillars and the roof lowered by 60 mm. To get the car to be perceived as sleeker, the rear spare wheel pods had been removed – the remainder of the body was identical.

What really made the 262C into what it was could be found in the passenger compartment. This offered an extravagance of leather and hardwood. The seats, headrests, door sides – even the curve handles had been upholstered in leather.

When the Volvo 1800ES was discontinued in 1973, there was no natural successor to the role of top range sports model. Volvo’s CEO Pehr G Gyllenhammar saw this as a problem. It was especially important that there was a model of this kind in Volvo’s biggest export market in the USA and a luxury coupé seemed more right at the time than another sports car.

Volvo’s chief designer Jan Wilsgaard did sketches for the shapes of the prestige car, but no clay model was ever built. Instead, he used a Volvo 164 that had been used to test new interiors. It was taken to the Italian designer Sergio Coggiola’s company in the Italian city of Turin, where the four-door body was rebuilt into a two-door body with a lower roof. The roof was clad with vinyl and the wide C-pillar adorned with three crowns – Sweden’s heraldic national symbol. The three crowns were replaced with one larger one on the production car, which is one of the very few differences between it and the prototype – except the obvious one that it was based on a 164.

The engine in the 262C was initially a 2.7 litre, 140 hp V6. It was shared with all the other body versions in the 260 series and had been developed together with Peugeot and Renault. Manufacturing took place in Douvrin in France under the auspices of the Société Franco-Suédoise de Moteurs-PRV company. Volvo’s engine designation was B27E and thanks to engine blocks and cylinder heads made from aluminium, it weighed less than 150 kg.

Such a niche product, built in small numbers, didn’t fit into the Volvo plant in Gothenburg. Instead, final assembly took place at the Italian Carozzeria Bertone, who also built the 264TE limo. Kits were sent to Turin where the bodies were modified, painted and assembled into finished cars. A small badge on the lower part of the front fenders showed that Bertone had built the car.

For the first few years, the 262 was only available in silver metallic with a black vinyl roof. From 1979, it was also available in gold metallic without a vinyl roof. That year, all saloon models in the 200 series also received a new rear with a boot that went down at the rear edge. The tail lights were also new and went around the body corners. In 1980, black and light blue metallic and silver metallic with vinyl roof was phased out. In the USA, the model was sold under the name of the Volvo Coupé from 1980.

The model year that stands out the most was also its last. In 1981, the 200 series underwent a major update with new, more slender bumpers and a new headlight set up. The B27E became a B28E as the engine gained in terms of cylinder volume and had another 14 horsepower added to it. The new colour combination was a two-tone paint job in gold and nougat.

The aim was to manufacture 800 units per year, but expectations for demand had been set far too low. Apart from in 1977 when production started late in the year, and the final model year, production figures were more than double the forecast. When the final cars were sold in 1981, they were already considered to be collectibles. In total, 6,622 cars were built between 1977 and 1981.

It was only in 1985 that the successor to the 262C was presented, Volvo 780. The collaboration with Bertone continued, but the 780 was both designed and built in Italy.

Five things you should know about the Volvo 262C

1. The 262C was not the first two-door model in the 260 series. In 1976-77, 3,329 262 GLs were manufactured exclusively for the North American market. They had a standard two-door body like a 242, but with a V6 engine and the far more exclusive front from the 260 series.

2. The 262C is the only Volvo to be delivered from the factory with vinyl over the steel roof.

3. The unique prototype built by Coggiola is now part of the Volvo Museum collection in Gothenburg.

4. The independent firm Solaire built a cabriolet edition of the 262C on behalf of Volvo Cars of North America. Only five units were ever manufactured.

5. Volvo’s CEO Pehr G Gyllenhammar had a specially made 262C as his company car. It was painted red and its entire interior was also red – even the headrests! It did not feature the usual V6 engine, which was replaced by the four-cylinder B21ET turbo engine. The body frames and grill were in matte black, which heralded the high black grill that the GLT and Turbo would feature in 1984.