Vehicles – Page 14 – Park Place Dealerships

March 29, 2017November 1, 2019

All-New Lexus LS 500h Makes Its World Premiere at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show

The 2018 Lexus LS 500h, the full hybrid version of Lexus’ new flagship sedan, was unveiled in March in Geneva.

The model, which follows the world premiere of the twin-turbo gas V6-powered LS 500 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, is a further manifestation of how Lexus has reimagined the luxury sedan, presenting bold design, enhanced performance and a sophisticated appeal to capture the imagination of forward-thinking customers.

The car’s design successfully brings together the virtues of a long-wheelbase four-door sedan with a low, coupe-like profile, positioning the LS perfectly across the growing sedan and coupe segments.

The cabin has benefited from an equally new approach, focusing on “progressive comfort,” interpreting Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship traditions in the context of an advanced, luxurious and innovative vehicle interior such as the unique door trim ornamentation. Notably, the LS 500 was honored at the NAIAS with the EyesOn Design Award for Design Excellence – Interior Design.

Conceived as the new global pinnacle of the Lexus brand, the LS goes beyond what the world expects from a luxury car. Chief Engineer Toshio Asahi explained: “Developing such a flagship model required a massive paradigm shift. Rather than being bound by the conventions that had defined luxury cars in the past, we aimed to create a car with innovative, emotional and sensual appeal that would draw customers’ eyes away from other luxury cars and provide entirely new values.”

The LS 500h is equipped with the new Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, which provides enhanced responsiveness and linear acceleration, particularly when accelerating from a full stop. The powertrain features a 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i V6 gasoline engine and two electric motors, together delivering maximum system power of 354 hp.

The LS 500h is built on the new Lexus Global Architecture – Luxury (GA-L) platform, which is shared with the all-new LC. This platform ensures a low center of gravity and optimum weight distribution, contributing to the car’s essential stability and handling agility, which in turn deliver increased driver rewards. The fundamental high rigidity of the chassis allows the new multi-link suspension to be tuned to achieve enhanced handling performance and the supreme comfort for which the LS is renowned. The car’s dynamic performance also benefits from the coordination of braking, steering and stability systems through Lexus Dynamic Handling.

Advanced technologies are further used to deliver impressive safety performance. The LS 500h’s available Advanced Safety Package features the world’s first Intuitive Pedestrian Detection system with Active Steering within the lane.

Omotenashi, expressing the unique sense of Japanese hospitality, defines the LS 500h’s whisper-quiet and luxurious interior. Supreme comfort is provided by front and rear seats with multiple power adjustment, heating, cooling, and massage functions. There is also an optional rear seat arrangement that includes an extending leg ottoman and the most generous leg room of any LS generation. At 123 inches, the wheelbase of the new LS is in fact 1.3-inches longer than on the current long wheelbase LS 600h L.

Lexus Takumi craftsmanship also contributes to the special quality of the LS 500h’s cabin, in luxurious new trims, materials and detailing, including a new pleating treatment and Kiriko glasswork on the inner door panels.

IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Full hybrid powertrain with 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i gas engine
The LS 500h’s Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System combines a 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i gas engine with two electric motors, together delivering a total output of 354hp. The engine makes optimal use of Dual VVT-i (intelligent variable valve-timing), with timing precisely gauged in line with driving conditions, helping to secure high torque at all engine speeds. Measures to reduce friction losses and thus improve engine efficiency include the adoption of narrow, lightweight roller rocker arms and low-friction timing chains, while D-4S direct fuel injection helps create optimum combustion conditions, contributing to enhanced fuel economy.

Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System
The new LS 500h is equipped with Lexus’ Multi Stage Hybrid System, a breakthrough technology that enriches the hybrid powertrain performance experience and is also seen on the all-new LC. The system adds a four-stage shifting device to the Lexus Hybrid Drive combination of a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine and two electric motors. The result is more direct response to driver inputs while maintaining the characteristic smoothness and efficiency for which Lexus hybrids are renowned.

In a conventional full hybrid vehicle, engine output is boosted by the electric motor via a reduction gear, but with the new Multi Stage Hybrid System the power from the V6 engine and the hybrid battery can be amplified by the four-stage shifting device, allowing much greater drive power to be generated when accelerating from stationary and achieving a 0-60 time of 5.4 seconds.

The design of the system places the multi-stage shift unit immediately behind the power split device, on an axis aligned with the engine crankshaft. Although the unit has four speeds, the D range has a simulated shift control pattern that delivers the feel of driving with a 10-speed gearbox. As vehicle speed rises, engine speed increases with a linear, direct and continuous acceleration feel, free from the “rubber band” effect witnessed in some continuously variable transmissions. In the 10th gear range, the CVT control allows for high-speed cruising at lower engine revs for quiet, smooth and fuel-efficient performance.

The transmission further benefits from an improved version of the artificial intelligence shift control found in conventional automatics. This enables intelligent, optimum gear selection to be made in line with driving conditions and driver inputs, for example when going up or downhill. By reading the vehicle’s acceleration, deceleration and lateral G trajectories, the system can adjust gear shifts to suit the driver’s style and behavior, without the driver having to select a different drive mode to get the kind of performance they want from the transmission.

Thanks to the Multi Stage Hybrid System’s design, the driver is able to take advantage of an M mode to select and hold gears manually, using paddle shifts mounted behind the steering wheel – a function not previously available on a Lexus hybrid. Thanks to the coordinated control of the Power Split Device and the gear shifting mechanism, the gear shift will start instantaneously with the computer receiving the signal from the paddle shift, giving an exceptionally quick response.

Lithium-ion hybrid battery
The LS 500h is fitted with a compact, lightweight, lithium-ion hybrid battery. It is 20 percent smaller than the nickel-metal hydride unit featured in the current Lexus LS 600h, yet has a higher power density. Using lithium-ion technology has also reduced the component’s weight, helping reduce the car’s overall mass, thus supporting overall fuel economy, emissions performance and handling balance.

It is the first Lexus hybrid battery to feature a satellite construction design, in which the cell voltage monitoring function has been made separate from the battery ECU. This allows for efficient use of what would otherwise be empty space inside the battery pack to house the wiring harness and battery cooling blower, thus reducing the unit’s overall dimensions. The cooling blower itself has been made more powerful and thinner in size.

LUXURY INTERIOR INSPIRED BY OMOTENASHI
Omotenashi, the Japanese concept of hospitality, is a common thread that has run through all LS models. In the context of a luxury automobile, it means taking care of the driver and passengers, anticipating their needs, attending to their comfort and protecting them from hazards.

Takumi Craftsmanship
The quality, precision and pride in perfection that define Lexus’ Takumi craftsmanship are richly evident in the luxury detailing in the new LS, as befits a flagship sedan. Lexus has produced a unique aesthetic for the new LS which can be witnessed in elements such as the interior lighting and an exceptional attention to detail in the finish and appearance of everything you see and feel.

Inspired by Japanese culture and traditions
Natural woodwork and the application of sophisticated sliced wood and laser cutting technologies have been used to produce new interior finish options, including Art Wood/Organic, Art Wood/Herringbone and Laser Cut Special. The grain pattern of Art Wood is achieved by combining different color woods and is an original Lexus design, created using Takumi craftsmanship skills. The LS’ new cross grain finish is larger with sharper contrasts between light and dark, creating a more vibrant effect. The new Laser Cut Special trim emphasizes the contrast between precise metal lines and natural wood.

Hand-pleated door trims were inspired by origami, the Japanese art of creating three-dimensional forms from a single piece of paper. The door panels were originally rendered in paper by a skilled fabric artisan. The finished three-dimensional pattern captures the Lexus “L” motif in its intricate and precise folds, conveying a different effect when seen in daylight or the cabin’s night-time illumination.

For the ornamentation panel, the aim was to express Lexus’ Time in Design philosophy. To achieve this, the team called on the skills of Kiriko artisan glassworkers who produced hand-carved designs that capture the contrast created by light and shadow. Through painstaking trial and error, a design was chosen that looks beautiful and sensual from any angle. Although fragile in appearance, the glass has been treated using reinforcement technology to ensure it is robust for use in a vehicle interior. The hand-carved design was reproduced using advanced glass production technology, which precisely scans and digitizes tens of thousands of facets. In the next step the glass ornamentation undergoes a series of treatments such as polishing and strengthening conducted by specialized Japanese Takumi craftsmen.

February 15, 2017

Jaguar’s First Ever SUV: The 2017 F-Pace

Introducing Jaguar’s first ever SUV, the NEW 2017 Jaguar F-Pace. This stunner captures Jaguars DNA of driving excitement in a visually appealing form, with plenty of room for five. The F-Pace gives the driver both legendary performance and stunning practicality with its distinctive road presence, spacious luxury interior, and stirring performance.

The F-Pace’s dynamic look combines sporty elegance with a muscular profile, a resting grille, and rounded hood. Its stiff body structure, low friction technologies, and right size proportions increase aerodynamics and down force. This is a beautiful SUV from front to back, whether you view it from the passenger side to the driver side. It looks like a work of art in motion even when it’s not moving. The electronic power assisted steering software really makes this Jaguar, cat like on the road.

A tapered roof line along with the creases in the front and rear bumpers contribute to its striking pose and overall aerodynamics. In the back seat, the 40-20-40 room/seat configuration and front folding seats offer plenty of flexibility to keep everyone comfortable and store items with ease. On muddy, wet days, the load space floor can be flipped from durable carpet to an easy to clean rubberized surface. Premium materials and pliant leathers create a luxurious interior that can be personalized with the available configurable interior mood lighting.

A high center console with sport command driving position helps keep the driver feeling confident and connected. The large windshield, the thin roof pillars, and panoramic glass roof provides excellent visibility and a wide open feel for everyone inside the F-Pace. Everything is extremely intuitive; long gone are the days of searching around for features just to see how they work. The touch screen has a home button, allowing the passengers and driver to easily change controls from media, climate, and even the navigation system found in most F-Paces.

Jaguar engineers have created an SUV that has drivers anticipating the thrilling ride every time it growls to life and savoring it from start to finish. But if you’re more interested in the pragmatic side of the F-Pace, it also goes above and beyond in service with a best in class coverage that includes a 5 year or 60 thousand mile new vehicle limited warranty. It also includes complimentary scheduled maintenance, 24 hour roadside assistance, and in control remote and protect.

If you are ready to experience a vehicle that breaks all the SUV molds, please stop by our Park Place Jaguar Plano dealership or visit us online at ParkPlace.com.

February 14, 2017

Experience the Sound of Speed with the 2018 F-Type

The new 2018 F-Type offers effortless performance and precise agile handling combined with everyday refinement and usability.

New LED headlights and updated LED taillights enhance the exterior with their elegance and power. New slim seats lighten the vehicle, providing more space, comfort, and a refreshed style. The F-Type comes in either coupe or convertible body styles, both offering exhilarating performance, astounding handling, and their own unique character.

Experience the sound of speed in the new 2018 Jaguar F-Type.

February 14, 2017

Captivate Through Illumination with the Lexus Concept LF-C2 Convertible

The LF-C2 Concept Convertible commands the attention of light itself. Perception is transformed and senses are heightened as light intimately interacts with every angle, and every line.

The LF-C2 Grand Touring concept made its global debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto showing the Lexus Brand’s future, bolder styling direction and personifying the brand’s passion for driving. The LF-C2 concept involves a highly styled 2+2 roadster layout, derived from a timeless sports coupe idea. The open air concept provides the ultimate sports coupe performance experience to passengers at every twist and turn on their journey.

A Striking Luxury Concept

The exterior was influenced by the way various surfaces, edges, planes, and curves interact with different kinds of light. Shape, light, and an extensive layered paint process all assist the LF-C2 exude a different character at different angles and changing lighting conditions. The result? A progressive and striking interpretation of an open air luxury concept.

*Concept Vehicle Shown

The brilliant, golden yellow is the result of a multi-layer process. It begins with a primer, followed by a coat of silver, a clear coat, and the brilliant yellow that reflects off the silver layer to give the brilliant. A top coat is then finally applied to ensure that when the LF-C2 is put in the right light, people will see luxury automotive in a way they have never before.

The LF-C2’s grille features a refined braided mesh theme which exemplifies Lexus’ high level of craftsmanship. The grille’s appearance changes when viewed from different angles and lighting conditions. Lexus signature Triangle-shaped LED headlights and stylish indicator lamps sit on the outside of the grille. The character line flows from the indicator lamps through the car’s arrow shaped body, ending at the abbreviated rear deck.

Inside the LF-C2 concept, the occupants are treated to a luxurious and spacious cabin that harmoniously matches the sporty elegance of the exterior. The console extends the length of the cabin towards the dashboard. The dashboard design is one of functional simplicity. It contains a stylish instrument cluster, central video monitor, and a classically styled analog clock placed between the central air vents.

*Concept Vehicle Shown

This is a driver’s car; emphasized with a thick leather wrapped steering wheel and form fitting seats. The Lexus LF-C2 Concept is a vision of balance between power and simplicity. It harmonizes with the passenger’s primary senses, resulting in an eye-catching roadster blended with signature Lexus luxury.

Stay Informed on the Lexus LF-C2 Concept

February 14, 2017

Experience the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6

The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 concept effortlessly delivers motorcar tradition into the future, as the ultimate in automotive luxury. Making its debut at Pebble Beach in August of 2016, the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 reinterprets classic, aesthetic and emotional design principals resulting in a long hood, low roof line and a rearward positioning of the greenhouse. Gorden Wagner, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG, states that “with its intelligent appeal and reduced, technoid, look, it perfectly embodies Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of sensual purity and our pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency.” The coupe measures 18.5 feet in length-recalling the aero coupes of the past while representing an overall concept so unexpectedly new.

The Maybach 6 is a 100% electric concept paired with a sleek, aerodynamically intelligent base shape. This coupe is powered by a four-motor, all electric, all-wheel drive system, with a range of over 200 miles. A quick-charge function adds up to 62 miles to the range with only 5 minutes of charging via public charge station, conventional domestic outlet, or wireless charging via electromagnetic field. The output of the drive system, in addition to the shallow underfloor battery allows for sports car performance and long range capabilities all while remaining emissions free.

A Blend of “Hot” Emotional Design and “Cool” Intelligent Details

The Maybach-6 interior instantly transports passengers to the future of luxury driving with its blend of “hot” emotional design, and “cool” intelligent details. Enter through the distinct and up to date gullwing doors, a Mercedes hallmark design element, and occupants find themselves a luxurious 360 degree lounge adorned with an authentic material composition fit only for a luxury experience of the highest order.

Rose gold, high quality leather trim, and cool color scheme create luxurious accents, primed to underline the digital innovations in the Maybach 6 Coupe. A traditional Chesterfield look, wood trim, and elm combine to soften the appearance of the digital control and display interfaces and create refined yachting look.

An increasing digitized experience calls the need for sustainable analogue solutions. The trim buttons in the luxury padded leather upholstery combine fashion and function, as miniature “body sensor displays” that scan the passengers and monitor their vital functions. The sensors also record the incidence of light, the color of the occupant’s clothing, and the ambient temperature to trigger new, emotional lighting effects on the interior. The front windscreen serves as a transparent display shown across its full width- sensing the outside world to update displays. Occupants can control and adjust the front screen display using gestures. This concept is truly one for the future- the electrical energy flow is visible to all occupants in the transparent center tunnel, and the driver can also switch to digital/autonomous mode at will.

With its impressive dimensions, sensual design, and intelligent details the Mercedes- Maybach 6 is the first luxury coupe in the series of Mercedes visionary design show cars.

February 14, 2017February 14, 2017

7 Tips to Keep Your Luxury Vehicle at Peak Performance

Congratulations! You have officially entered the luxury market and are now the proud owner of an exceptional automotive. Becoming a luxury car owner at Park Place does have its perks, from sales to service, your client experience will be unmatched as our experts take care of your Porsche, Mercedes, Lexus, Volvo, Jaguar, or Bentley, like it’s their very own.

Upkeep can be difficult for any automotive owner, but driving a high-end vehicle means that any lapses in maintenance could be very costly to the performance and lifespan of your luxury automotive, not to mention your wallet.

Here are seven essential tips to keep your luxury vehicle in pristine condition throughout your ownership experience, courtesy of our Park Place experts:

1. Use Your Dealer for Service

Luxury vehicles are expensive vehicles no matter the make. Whether Lexus, Mercedes, or Jaguar, your dealer is extremely knowledgeable about that specific vehicle. Most even require the dealer technicians to have special training and tools to perf
orm maintenance on the high end models.

Tom Kruzel, Service Director at Park Place Lexus Grapevine, says that many times vehicles come through that others have “tried to work on” and it ends up costing the client more money and more time to get the vehicle back in shape. Regular service at the dealership means that the service experts can catch many things, like a leaking water pump, before they become a concern or you need to call a tow truck. If you need to schedule a service appointment with Park Place- it’s easy to do using our online Service Scheduler.

2. Use Factory Parts

Factory parts are worth the investment. Research and development spends enormous amounts of time and money to make your vehicle world class- and that means outfitting the cars with quality parts that are manufacturer specific. You wouldn’t put gasoline in a diesel fuel tank, so why use aftermarket parts made to “look” like factory parts to service your luxury vehicle?

3. Detail Your Car

Cam Mayfield, Service Director at Motorcars Dallas, recommends performing a yearly detail to maintain the new car, luxury look and protect your paint. Not only does this keep your eye-catching vehicle look shiny and new, but it also helps hold the car’s value in case you decide to trade in or sell in the future. Marc Lustig of Infiniti Las Vegas, adds that a waxing every 6 months will further help maintain your vehicles paint.

4. Clean Off Any and All Bird Droppings

After your cars been detailed and waxed, be diligent in cleaning off any and all bird droppings as soon as you can. Bird poop will not only make your luxury vehicle look dirty and ill maintained, but the bird droppings can actually etch into the paint if left sitting.

5. Regularly Inspect the Tires

Tires are the only part of the vehicle that actually touches the road; they affect your vehicles handling, ride, braking, and overall safety. Luxury cars actually have soft compound tires that can be costly to replace, so regular tire maintenance and inspection come highly recommend by all of the Park Place Service Directors.

To maintain optimum performance, tires must have the correct air pressure; tread depth, and balance. Under inflated tires is a leading cause of using excess fuel and straining the engine, adds Rod Moreno of Park Place Lexus. Moving a flat tire is not easy- and for good reason. Checking your tires on a regular basis says Park Place Motorcars Arlington’s Service Director, Jeff Cole, is an important step in protecting your safety and your automotive investment.

Ideally, tire inspections should be performed at least once a month – especially if you drive over potholes and road debris, live in a hot climate, or regularly drive long distances. And if you are planning on taking a long road trip, always inspect your tires for small problems, such as a nail, before it becomes
a more expensive and time-consuming issues.

6. Don’t Forget to Align the Wheels

After you take care of your tires, don’t forget to align the wheels! Wheel alignment should be performed yearly. If your vehicle has impacted any kind of road hazard, get it aligned as soon as possible. When your wheels are out of alignment, your tires can wear unevenly and your vehicle might not handle the road safely. Remember- new tires can be expensive- so follow recommended tire maintenance routines to save money and keep you safe.

7. Keep a Battery Tender

Vince Knighton, Service Director of the Park Place Premier Collection, recommends keeping the vehicle on a battery tender if it will sit for a long period of time. If they are not maintained, and you do decide to take your Bentley or Rolls Royce out for a spin, the battery will go flat and you will be left stranded.

January 16, 2017January 16, 2017

True Luxury Is Personal: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Year In Bespoke

From the inception of the marque 113 years ago, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has stood alone in serving the world’s wealthy and influential an exquisite blank canvas from which to express their tastes, lifestyles and passions. Where once this fell to independent coachbuilders, the execution of the most deeply held desires of the most discerning patrons of luxury in the world is now performed by the marque’s Bespoke department, a collective of extraordinary designers, engineers and craftspeople at the marque’s centre of excellence in Goodwood, England. Today, practically every motor car that leaves the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England is Bespoke. What follows is a small snapshot of some of 2016’s finest examples of Bespoke design and craftsmanship.

This approach is driven by Rolls-Royce’s founding belief that true luxury houses must intimately understand their patrons to execute their boldest visions at the hands of master craftspeople. True luxury is therefore deeply personal and commissioning a Rolls-Royce a process more akin to the creation of a work of art. For our customers, it is an act of patronage.

It is this commitment to empowering its patrons to create the world’s finest objects in their own image that defines Rolls-Royce’s position as a true luxury house. A philosophy exquisitely expressed throughout 2016, a remarkable year of creative endeavour for the marque’s Bespoke department.

“Rolls-Royce patrons live in a world beyond material acquisition, indeed they seek to commission, curate and collect. This is why they come to houses like Rolls-Royce to commission deeply personal luxury items, knowing this will be executed at the hands of the world’s most skilled artisans. In commissioning these extraordinary objects in close collaboration with our designers they create a timeless legacy, often profoundly inspired by the most important moments in their lives,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “Rolls-Royce will never stray from this path, ensuring the precious relationship between patron, house and artisan is never derogated by proliferation. This unique approach is beautifully expressed in just a small collection of some of the remarkable commissions executed at our centre of global excellence in 2016.”

Phantom Zenith Collection

Naturally, in its final year of production connoisseurs and collectors were moved to commission stunning examples of the seventh generation Phantom – these promise to take pride of place in some of the most significant collections in the world.

As Phantom Coupé and Phantom Drophead Coupé prepared to leave the stage in 2016, the marque’s patrons were invited to commission just 25 final examples of each body-style. These stunning motor cars elegantly celebrated the manner in which these extraordinary motor cars augment the lifestyles of the most discerning patrons of luxury in the world. In hallmark Rolls-Royce style, every possible comfort was considered. For example, enhancements to the rear-split tailgate included a meticulously engineered and crafted glass-shelf from which to serve champagne, whilst the luggage compartment proved the perfect staging point for a civilised rest-stop when touring. Flourishes like the addition of champagne fridge, large enough to hold two bottles and eight Rolls-Royce glasses served to demonstrate Rolls-Royce’s unique understanding of its patrons.

As a final touch, the central fascia drawer is used to house a priceless memento signifying each car’s status as one of the very last. On opening, owners discover a removable polished aluminium case, laser engraved with their motor car’s unique identification number surrounded with a beautiful application of Best English Blacking – a technique most commonly associated with fine gun-making. Within this sits a piece of automotive history, not attainable by any other means; a single piece of the seventh generation Phantom’s Assembly Line at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England. This remarkable collectors’ piece is completed with the expression of co-ordinates, stating the exact part of the Assembly Line from where the metal was extracted.

Extraordinary detail and application – The Peace and Glory Phantom

One of the final Bespoke commissions of the seventh generation Phantom Extended Wheelbase was crafted for an entrepreneur in the Far East, showcasing the ingenuity and application of the marque’s craftspeople through the art of embroidery. In this instance, they exquisitely replicate the pattern of tiger fur in the rear centre console. Beyond that, this stunning example features a wealth of unique interior fittings, echoed with a subtle gold coachline and motifs on the Madeira Red exterior. The cabin of this Phantom is furnished in a two-tone design of Moccasin and Fawn Brown leather, and is embellished with multiple personalised motifs stitched into the hide and laid into the veneer, all by hand. Bespoke white instrument dials contrast with a Consort Red steering wheel rim – elegantly expressing the breadth of colour palette at the disposal of the marque’s patrons when creating truly unique Bespoke commissions.

The ‘Blue Magpie’ Phantom Drophead Coupé

Cultural emblems and stories so often inform the vision of the marque’s patrons, as beautifully displayed in this commission by a gentleman in Taiwan. This elegant Phantom Drophead Coupé was one of the very last built and incorporates a number of Bespoke features of regional significance. The exterior is finished in Silverlake with an Andalusian White bonnet and an engraved Spirit of Ecstasy in gold. Hints of gold are also incorporated in the Bespoke twin coachlines and the pinstripes circling the wheel centres. The headrests are embroidered with an illustration of the blue magpie, a bird which can only be found in the owner’s homeland of Taiwan, while Mother of Pearl inlays sit within the veneers, instrument dials, clock and control knobs. Attention to detail even extends to the floor of the car’s luggage compartment, which is is uniquely finished in teak with white maple inserts.

Dawn, Ghost and Wraith… a wider palette

Dawn, Ghost and Wraith equally serve as the perfect canvas for the most discerning patrons of luxury in the world. This has driven Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke department to its most successful and creative year in history.

The invention of colour – Mr Fux’s Pebble Beach Dawn

US collector Michael Fux, a connoisseur collector, delights in challenging Rolls-Royce’s designers and craftspeople to develop truly unique materials, hues and features. The results serve as some of the boldest and most emblematic examples of Bespoke design ever executed at the marque’s centre of excellence in Goodwood. When Mr Fux came to commission his first Dawn for handover at Pebble Beach, he came to develop his very own colour, dubbed ‘Fux Blue’, which will remain reserved for his exclusive use. The stunning exterior shade is complemented by a blue hood in the same tone, in contrast to the Arctic White rear deck and fittings to the interior. In order to ensure perfect sartorial harmony, the marque’s designers clothed the entire interior including steering wheel, instrument panel cowling and interior veneers in Artic White, creating a truly unique and contemporary aesthetic.

‘Dusk until Dawn’ at Porto Cervo

To mark the beginning of the 2016 summer season with the opening of the Rolls-Royce Summer Studio in Porto Cervo the Bespoke team created unique examples of both Wraith and Dawn. The dusk-inspired Wraith is finished in subtle two-tone Premiere and Jubilee Silver paintwork. When the doors are opened an exquisitely vibrant interior is revealed. A combination of Tailored Purple, Purple Silk and Powder Blue leather draws on visual highlights in the sky above Sardinia. The exotic fringes of Porto Cervo’s nightlife are reflected in the use of luxurious and supple Ostrich leather on the centre consoles and door panniers.

Porto Cervo’s location on the Costa Smeralda provided natural colour cues and visual inspiration for the accompanying Dawn. The exterior is painted in lustrous Emerald Green, with matching interior accents complementing the Seashell leather. Open-pore teak panelling throughout the cabin is enhanced by a Bespoke piece of jewellery that adorns the display lid, with Emerald stones and Mother of Pearl set into white gold to form a jewelled graphic reminiscent of a compass rose.

Sounding the perfect note – Rolls-Royce Inspired by the Greats

Again, it is deeply held passions that serve as the inspiration for a stunning collection of motor cars. Commissioned by a Rolls-Royce dealer in the Middle East, this collection celebrates the work of the great classical composers.

This Ghost features a monochromatic exterior design, embellished with a striking coachline that incorporates the clef-like motif. The motif is echoed throughout the cabin, adorned on the clock, laid into the wood and stitched into the headrests. A particularly elegant Bespoke feature is the Barrel Oak veneer dashboard panel, with a ‘folded back’ design that reveals Dark Ebony woodwork beneath, inscribed using the art of marquetry with the exact musical notation from the patrons favourite piece.

A nautical Dawn for Pebble Beach

For many of the marque’s patrons, a Bespoke Rolls-Royce serves to celebrate a long-held passion.Taking inspiration from the designs of high-performance yachts, a nautical-themed Dawn was commissioned by a Floridian and delivered to her at the 2016 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Finished in a two-tone combination of Arctic White with a Midnight Sapphire windscreen surround and bonnet, the sleek convertible mimics the high-contrast appearance of a superyacht, complemented by a teak rear deck and ‘Canadel’ teak interior panels. The Bespoke cabin clock is inspired by its patron’s favourite watch. As well as referencing the Pebble Beach handover, the treadplate completes the nautical theme, showing the four international maritime signal flags that spell out ‘Dawn’.

January 16, 2017January 16, 2017

A New Year and a New Look For McLaren 12C and 650S with “MSO Defined” Options

McLaren expands the range of aftermarket personalisation options for owners of the 12C, 650S and 675LT
Available for all Qualified pre-owned McLaren Super Series models
Range now includes a wide selection carbon fibre accessories produced by McLaren Special Operations under its MSO Defined portfolio

Current and future McLaren Super Series owners can now refresh the design of their cars through a range of dramatic McLaren Special Operations (MSO) Defined accessories. Offered and installed through McLaren retailers, the options can now be widely applied to any McLaren Super Series models from the 12C to the 675LT and at any point in the car’s ownership. The accessories enhance the dramatic design of the car and in true McLaren fashion, also frequently bring a performance advantage, as a result of weight saving.

Among the exterior embellishments in the MSO Defined Super Series collection are a Carbon Fibre Rear Diffuser, which reduces weight and enhances airflow, and Carbon Fibre Mirror Arms which can be coupled with matching mirror casings. The range also includes Carbon Fibre Louvered Front Fenders, which take inspiration from McLaren historic race cars, such as the renowned 1970 Can-Am winning McLaren M8D to save 0.5 kilograms over the standard equivalent. They feature vented wheel arch liners, to remove turbulent air from under the wheel arches giving more grip over the front axle. Also available is a carbon fibre bonnet that is finished in visual carbon fibre for increased impact, as seen on the limited-edition McLaren 650S Can-Am model.

Interior enhancements begin with MSO Defined Carbon Fibre Vent Bezels. Carbon Fibre Sill Tops highlight the driver-focused design of the cabin, as well as protect the sills of the MonoCell structure. While likely to interest the track day enthusiasts are a Carbon Fibre Steering Wheel, which can be trimmed in leather or Alcantara®, and Extended Carbon Fibre Gear Shift Paddles.

Carl Whipp, Aftersales Director at McLaren Automotive, commented: “The growing MSO Defined portfolio gives customers an opportunity to further personalize their cars and significantly expands our wider accessories portfolio. We have experienced significant interest in the MSO Defined range on Super Series cars being ordered new and we are now very pleased to be bringing these features to a wider group of customers as a retrofit choice.”

The aftermarket enhancements in the Super Series MSO Defined range are available for existing owners and new customers purchasing through the Qualified programme. For more details, please visit McLaren Dallas at the Park Place Premier Collection.

January 12, 2017January 12, 2017

Lexus Re imagines Global Flagship Sedan: the NEW LS 500

After five years of development the new Lexus LS 500 is unlike any of its predecessors. Its radical new design includes a coupe-like silhouette, with all the spaciousness of the prestige sedan. This is the fifth generation LS flagship sedan, unveiled at the 2017 North American International Auto Show. The LS’s design has a clear Japanese identity, but it’s availability in over 90 countries will make it the brand’s latest global citizen.

The Lexus LS is a new level of flagship luxury in every aspect, including an all-new twin-turbo V6 with 415 horsepower, 10 speed automatic transmission, 3.5-liter-twin-turbo V6, and a front-engine, rear wheel driving platform. The wide and low design, 123 inch wheelbase is longer than the current LS model, will enhance the center of gravity height and weight distribution. The stage has been set for enhanced handling, ride smoothness, a quiet, and dynamic driving experience cabin thanks to the revolutionary GA-L architecture, chassis control technology known as Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), and the use of lightweight materials in building the car.

There are five wheel designs debuting with the LS, including two new 19 and three 20 inch wheel designs. Sputter, an electroplating technique is used on the 20 inch wheels to obtain a brilliant appearance. Hollow rim structures on four out of the five wheel designs reduce the resonance sound generated by the tires.

Forged from passion, the new LS 500 surpasses all luxury class expectations offering the driver a more dynamic driving experience. When crafting the all-new LS, Lexus re-imagined what a flagship sedan should be, as if launching the brand all over again. The new LS anticipate the needs of the driver and their passengers- attending to their comfort and safety. This principal is called Omotenashi, the Japanese principal of hospitality present in all LS models.

The new Lexus will arrive in the United States in the fall of 2017- signaling the ultimate rebirth of a luxury classic. Stay up to date on new Lexus LS 500

January 12, 2017January 12, 2017

The Drive Me Project: Volvo’s Real-life Autonomous Drive Research Program

The Drive Me project is a large scale autonomous driving project that puts real people behind the wheel of a Volvo XC90 in real traffic. In total, the project will see about 100 autonomous cars on the roads in Sweden- the home of Volvo Cars. During the 2017 Detroit Motor Show, Volvo introduced the Hain Family from Gothenburg, Sweden, as the first people chosen to take part in a real-life autonomous drive research program.

Håkan Samuelsson, President & CEO, of the Volvo Car Group says that “Technology should improve the consumer experience making mobility safer, sustainable, and more convenient.” This program emphasizes that technology should make people’s lives easier, allowing a user to potentially drive in a vehicle that performs all the driving without human input. But, it all starts with the person using the technology; Volvo’s unique, human centric approach defines the technology based on the role of the driver.

The extensive research should yield a safer journey, save fuel, provide a smoother ride, and even help every driver find and successfully park in any available space. This a collaborative process; Volvo Cars recently partnered with the ride sharing company, Uber, that will incorporate the latest autonomous driving (AD) features, as well as launching a joint venture with Autoliv, termed Zenuity, to develop bench-marking autonomous drive software and safety solutions for OEM’s.

The future cars will be able to navigate without human input, sense its surroundings and adapt to changing traffic conditions. “We want to learn more around how people feel when they engage and disengage autonomous drive, what the handover should be like, and what sort of things they would do in the car when it’s driving them to their destination” according the Henrik Green, Senior Vice President, Research and Development at Volvo Car Group.

Volvo aims to have its first fully autonomous car on the market by 2021.