Zenvo Automotive unveiled two new VP prototype Aurora’s marking a significant milestone for the Danish hypercar manufacturer as it prepares for the first customer deliveries due in Summer 2027.

Aurora is the most significant car in Zenvo’s 19-year history. Created to define a new era for the Danish hypercar manufacturer, it has been developed from the ground up, including an entirely bespoke platform and the most powerful V12 ever fitted to a production car. Aurora brings together extreme performance, real accessibility, and driving pleasure in a ‘form-and-function’ relationship shaped by Danish principles of clarity, purpose, and careful consideration.

Designed, engineered, and hand-assembled in Denmark, Aurora features an all-new 6.6-litre quad-turbocharged V12 engine, developed in partnership with MAHLE Powertrain. Targeting 1,250 bhp and a 9,800 rpm redline.

The V12 is paired with a lightweight triple electric motor system, bringing total output up to a targeted 1,850 bhp, depending on model variant. Aurora will be available in two distinct forms: Agil, the lightweight, track-focused but road-legal variant, and Tur, a more classically-inspired grand touring design built around the same platform. Production will be strictly limited, with first customer deliveries expected in the second half of 2027.

Don’t forget to visit our Events listing for what’s on this month. Classic car events and destinations 2026: – Classic Yorkshire

Aurora Tur Specification Table

Specification	Detail
Chassis	Carbon composite monocoque, carbon composite front and rear structures
Body	Carbon composite panels
Architecture	2-seater, mid-engine layout, all-wheel drive
Suspension	Front and rear double-wishbone suspension with pushrods
Length	4,819 mm
Width	2,024 mm
Height	1,187 mm
Wheelbase	2,800 mm
Weight (Dry)	1,548 kg (3,413 lb)
Aerodynamics	Integrated underbody aerodynamics
Engine	Bespoke 6.6L V12 90° hot-V, VGT quad-turbo, pre-heated catalytic converters (1,250 bhp & 1200nm torque)
E-motor (Transmission P2)	200 bhp
E-motors (2x front axle)	200 bhp (400 bhp combined)
Combined output	1,850 bhp
Maximum torque	1,700 Nm
Max engine revs	9,800 rpm
Front torque vectoring	On the front axle
Gearbox	Hybridised 8-speed paddle shift
Top speed	Est. 420 km/h (260 mph)
0–100 km/h	Est. 2.3 seconds
0–300 km/h	Est. 9 seconds
0–400 km/h	Est. 17 seconds
Power-to-weight	Est. 1.19 bhp/kg
Brakes	Zenvo carbon ceramic discs
Wheels	Bespoke aluminium centre-lock: 10×20″ front / 12.5×21″ rear
Tyres	Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2: 275/35 R20 / 335/30 R21
Production	Limited to 50 units

With long hot summers becoming the norm we may have to adapt the cars we drive and the way we look after them. The good news is that convertibles are now more practical than ever, even though manufacturers are turning away from them. Obviously air conditioning will be increasingly essential and maybe improved wipers and lighting to deal with heavy rain.

But that is for manufacturers to decide and I’m sure that they are working on it. In the meantime Autoglym have produced some advice for cleaning your car in drought conditions.

In extreme heat and bright sunlight, natural contaminants like bird lime and tree blossom, as well as road grime and complex water-resistant chemicals such as suncreams, can adhere stubbornly to painted and plastic surfaces, requiring extra care to remove without causing damage.

The following tips have been devised by Autoglym’s experts who train professional valeters and detailers responsible for cleaning thousands of cars each year in all weathers.

Top tips for heatwave-friendly car care

1. Rise and shine. Wash the car in the shade when the paintwork is cool; early mornings are ideal
2. Use a dedicated pre-wash spray to loosen the worst of the dirt, then rinse thoroughly
3. Tackle wheels before bodywork to avoid the worst grime flying onto clean bodywork
4. Wash using the two-bucket method – one filled with soapy water, one with clean water so you can rinse your mitt and avoid reapplying dirt to the car
5. Use specialist detergents if you encounter stubborn stains like tar or bird lime
6. Rinse and repeat – wash in sections and rinse from the top down. To clear soapy water from nooks and crannies, notably within the wheels, use a pressure washer or pump sprayer
7. Watch out for water spotting – dry the car before the sun does by using a clean microfibre or drying towel
8. Between washes, deploy a detailing spray to avoid having to do a full clean so frequently
9. If it is too warm for a full car wash, consider a quick clean of the glass and light units to maintain good visibility and keep the car looking presentable
10. Apply protection to your paintwork to resist the grime, making the next clean much easier to perform

For more information visit www.autoglym.com.

Don’t forget out events page to see what’s on this month Classic car events and destinations 2026: – Classic Yorkshire

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

A big thank you to Classic Yorkshire subscriber, John, who sent me pictures of a rare 1968-registered Vauxhall Viva spotted in Norfolk, but with West Yorkshire connections.

The Viva HB SL90 convertible was based on Vauxhall’s sporty SL90 which delivered 20% more power than the standard HB models.

The Viva HA debuted in 1963 and was developed in partnership with Opel. The HB saloon replaced the HA in 1966 and offered greater power and improved suspension.

In 1968, conversion specialists Crayford Engineering transformed just five SL90s into open top motors. Each was finished in white, powered with a 1159cc engine upgrade and fitted with Cosmic Mk1 alloy wheels.

Vauxhall Luton officially approved of the conversions into impressive hand-built convertibles which gave the car a stylish European look.

The handful of convertibles were distributed solely by Leeds Vauxhall dealership, Wallace Arnold Ltd.

As an aside, the WASS garage on Hunslet Road operated until the 1980s as a major Vauxhall sales outlet.

The convertibles came a little costly for the time with prices from £1,162 which was a big jump from the price of a standard SL90 saloon.

The car pictured is believed to be one of only two surviving SL90 ‘Crayford’ convertibles left.

Once again the team at The Fast Lane Club have done an amazing job of curating their Yorkshire Elegance event. With a range of special vehicles from the dawn of the motoring era to current day super cars the team have produced an event that easily stands alongside the events at Hampton Court (concourse de Elegance) and Blenheim Palace (Salon Prive). It’s a pity that the people who hand out the accolades can’t see that good things can happen in the north.

Grantley Hall is the perfect location for this type of event and the event organisation is of the highest standard. The event continues to develop and this year saw the introduction of an owners club field with all manor of high end marques. I could fill the rest of this article telling you about the cars that I drooled over, but I think a photo gallery will tell the story better.

I will bring you more detailed stories of some the cars over the next few weeks.

With thanks to thefastlaneclub.com. Check out their website for details of their other events.

Check out Grantley Hall at http://www.grantleyhall.co.uk

Let me start by saying that I am not an expert in AI. I have however been messing about with it and it is becoming an increasingly useful tool. It might be useful for you too, so here’s the story of my AI journey.

Lets start with the basics.

What is the difference between a search engine and AI.

With a search engine you ask a question, it scours the internet and lists in priority order thousand of articles that it thinks will answer your question. You then have to read the articles to find what you need.

With AI you ask it a question and it scours the internet, collates information and presents the information back to you in report or graphics form.

BUT……… it collects its information from the internet and therefor is only as accurate as the information on the internet. It can and will find erroneous information and present it back to you as fact.

How do I get an AI programme?

You can download AI programmes for your phone or laptop and the main ones are ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude and Llana.

What can it do:

There is a lot that AI can do and the best way to find out is to actually use it. Don’t worry you can’t start WW3. Ask it for the history of a car by its registration number or Identify a make and model from a photograph of a car.

Load a photograph of your car and try different paint colours or stripes

Design a logo or poster for your classic car event.

Turn a photograph into a colouring image.

Make art out of this photograph

Colourise this picture.

Make an updated picture of a Lotus Elan.

You can ask it for almost anything, a press contact, repair tips or specialist suppliers.

But the best part is that you don’t have to know code or any techno speak, You simply type your question in. If the answer isn’t quite right then ask again and it will refine its offering. So you could for example, change a logo colour if you don’t like it.

At the end of the day you can’t do any harm using AI for your classic car hobby. Give it a try and soon you will be using for lots of different aspects of your life. However, two things to remember. If its important double check the information from another source and logo’s and posters tend to have a similar look.

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

As a long-standing Rover owner I couldn’t let the 40^th anniversary of the 800 series go unannounced.

The Rover 800 was launched on 10^th July 1986 with Rover Group shipping out 1000 new cars, mainly the top-spec Sterling model, to its dealer network.

The 800 series grew out of a collaboration between Austin Rover and Honda and started with a 2.5 litre Honda-designed engine and a Rover-made 2.0 litre four-cylinder option.

It was seen as the natural replacement for the sleek Rover SDI and after a shaky start Rover brought out an enlarged Honda-made 2.7 litre V6 unit. As well as the four-door executive saloon, Rover launched a five-door fastback version in 1988 and a two-door coupe (introduced in 1992).

It proved good timing. Rover needed a ‘shot in the arm’ and were looking for a car to take on BMW. The 800 series offered modern refinement, a range of engine options and appealing Japanese technology.

At home, the 800 Series became the UK’s best selling executive car with 317,306 models built over 13 years.    

Unfortunately, in the US Rover faced rockier times. The car – branded the ‘Sterling’ – was affected by poor build quality and disappointing sales. Rover pulled out of the US market in 1991.

In the nineties, the 800 attracted humorous interest as the favoured car of TV character, Alan Partridge (played by Steve Coogan). The fictional media presenter loved his Rovers and was so desperate to show off his executive lifestyle, that he ‘up-badged’ his mid-range Rover 820 to look like a more expensive Vitesse model.

Reflecting on the 800 series, it had its faults – well, we are talking Rover – but it remains a good car that rightly earns its place in our motoring heritage.

To celebrate the 800’s special birthday, the Rover 600 and 800 Owners’ Club gathered at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon last weekend (12 July). For more on the big day go to their Facebook page.

Every year reports are published that attach a monetary value to the classic car world. If you think about it the industry embraces not just the cars, repairs and servicing, restoration, retail, events, auction houses and much more. It is estimated that the total value of the industry is £18.3 billion and it generates £2.9 billion in tax revenues and supports 113 000 jobs, many highly skilled.

But is that the true value of the classic car movement? A few weeks ago I saw a facebook advert for an event supporting Andy’s Man Club. This is a men’s mental health charity aimed at preventing male suicide. It was an hours drive away but was being held by a business I didn’t know.

I am not going to delve into male suicide too much but suffice it to say that male suicide rates are three times higher than female suicide rates at 17.6 per 100 000. The highest rate is men aged 50-54 with 26.8 deaths per 100 000.

The event, an open day, was organised by Rally and Retro restorations (part of S H Restorations) at Cross Hills between Bradford and Skipton. Visitors were invited to bring their classic cars and take a tour of the workshop where there were some special cars to be seen.

It made me think that the classic car movement must raise millions of pounds for charity and this is a value that we fail to capture. Because it is voluntary and often local action it is difficult to capture the data.

I thought it was important to make this point and to recognise the work of those who raise money for charity. But then I looked around at the attendees at this event. Fifty or sixty men stood around talking about classic cars and joking around. Men aged 50 plus talking to complete strangers about a passion they share. That is the true value of the classic car movement. It provides companionship and interest for a group of people, some of whom may be suffering from mental health issues.

If you are struggling with loneliness or mental health issue contact Andys man club. They have local events and its a chance to talk.

Andy’s Man Club:

email, info@andysmanclub.co.uk Web: andysmanclub.co.uk

With thanks to Steve Hill of SH restorations who organised this event. 01535 634043 email: shrestorations@gmail.com

Boreham Motorworks has unveiled the first production prototype Ford Escort Mk1 RS at the public at London Concours 2026, marking a major milestone in the development of one of the most focused lightweight performance cars of the modern era. 

First announced at the end of 2024, the Boreham Motorworks Ford Escort Mk1 RS programme now enters a new phase — one defined by engineering delivery and dynamic validation. Behind the scenes, the development programme has progressed significantly, with a test vehicle actively undergoing rolling road, dyno and dynamic testing at facilities across the UK. 

At the centre of the programme is a simple but uncompromising formula: a target weight of 895kg, combined with the achievement of 330PS and a confirmed 10,000rpm capability. Together, these attributes define the character of the Ford Escort Mk1 RS — a naturally aspirated, rear-wheel-drive driver’s car engineered to deliver immediate response, exceptional agility and genuine driver connection. 

Gallery:

Boreham Motorworks_Ford Escort Mk1 RS_Details_15Date: 08/06/2026

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

The understated Mercedes-Benz W123 series rightly earns its ‘classic’ tag after clocking up 2.7 million sales since its roll-out in 1976.

This mid-range classic – known internally as the W123 – took the Mercedes brand a step further, following in the footsteps of the popular W114 introduced in the late 60s.

The W123 might not look a design sensation but it offered a timeless appeal, durability and quality. Not forgetting some forward-thinking engineering too!

Its chrome trim, prominent front grille and interior comfort gave it an upmarket feel and it was often the chosen transport for diplomats and VIPs. Yet, the 123 was equally comfortable as a taxi carrier.

Following the launch of the saloon version, along came a coupe (the C123) in 1977 and Mercedes’ first estate car (the S123) in 1978. A long wheelbase limousine (the V123) completed the range.

The series came in various engine sizes from 2-litre four-cylinder to 2.8-litre straight-six petrol units. Diesel options included the popular 240.

It also offered the option of Anti-Lock Braking from 1980 as part of Mercedes commitment to being at the forefront of vehicle safety.

Across Europe, Africa and the Middle East you would see 123s in daily use. It’s ‘bullet proof’ engines and assured handling made it a popular choice for anyone looking for a reliable long-distance runner.

A 280E version also enjoyed rallying success, notably winning first and second places in the 1977 London – Sydney Marathon.

Production ended in 1985, but 40 years on the W123 is a sought after collectors car. Prices vary enormously from £3,000 for a restoration project to £20,000 plus for a restored low mileage saloon or estate example.

It is just two weeks to go the next edition of Yorkshire Elegance with a move into the Aero industry with the Aerolite Spitfire.

In my view this is the most prestigious car event in Yorkshire, the North and it gives those posh events down South a run for their money. A few tickets remain so if you want to see some of the rarest cars, in the most fabulous condition then hit the buy tickets button for more information.

Who doesn’t love a Spitfire?

Great British Supermarine has unveiled the concept model of the Aerolite Spitfire, a modern two-seat aircraft designed for the modern recreational pilot.

This full scale model composite is inspired by an abandoned 1940s wartime concept. Back then, designers experimented with Gordon Aerolite—a resin-impregnated flax fiber—to circumvent anticipated aluminium shortages. Today, this advanced composite construction perfectly captures the iconic shape and geometry of the original Supermarine fighter delivering its legendary flying characteristics.

The certified 400hp engine spins a large-scale propeller to deliver authentic warbird performance. The wonderful sounding original Merlin engine won’t be used fundamentally due to cost, maintainence consideration and availability of parts. I am told though, new engine configuration will seek to capture the unique immediately recognisable sound of that wonderful Merlin Engine.

The concept model made its public debut at Bodmin Airfield last month, sparking intense excitement.

The full size prototype will be on display at Yorkshire Elegance.

1959 Jaguar Mk1 ex John Coombes

The 1959 Jaguar Mk1 “BUY 1” is one of the most famous and active historic saloon cars in the world.

At the end of 1958, Jaguar brass Sir William Lyons and William Heynes decided to build three highly modified, lightweight Mk1 saloons for the 1959 racing season. BUY 1 was the second of these cars.

The car was delivered to legendary team owner John Coombs of Coombs of Guildford, who fitted it with his famous personalized plate, “BUY 1”. Formula One driver Roy Salvadori campaigned the car extensively in the 1959 British Saloon Car Championship. 
BUY 1 has been in the Williams family for three generations since 1962 and is a regular at Goodwood Revival. Grant Williams, who currently races the car has kindly agreed to bring BUY 1 up north to Yorkshire Elegance. 

Since 1999, Grant has achieved 17 Goodwood Revival podiums; 3x St. Mary’s Trophy Aggregate Wins. I met Grant out at the 1000 Miglia recently – we will be dragging him on stage to hear about his wonderful racing career with the famous Jag. He’s a top lad!

CONCOURS ENTRY LIST

The 2026 Concours entry list is the strongest we have seen, in total there are 62 entries.

VINTAGE CLASS – Pre WWII: Delahaye Wagonette 10/12 1912, Alvis Racing No.1 1923, Frazer Nash Vitesse 1927, BUGATTI Type 49 Gangloff Roadster1930, ROLLS ROYCE Phantom 2 Continental Saloon 1931, ALVIS SPEED 20 1932, Maserati 4CM Vetturetta 1932.

CLASSIC Post WWII: 1970 Jensen Interceptor (Cabriolet), 1952 Jaguar XK 120 OTS, 1954 Austin Healey 100M, 1954 Bentley R-Type, 1955 OSCA MT4, 1956 Aston Martin DB2/4 MKIII, 1958 Porsche 356B, 1960 Jaguar E-Type Series 1, 1961Porsche 356C ,1964 Excalibur SS, 1965 Aston Martin DB5, 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2, 1965 Jaguar E-Type Series 2, 1968 Jensen Interceptor Mk1 1969.

MODERN CLASSIC: 2005 De Tomaso Pantera Pre-L,1972 Porsche 911, 1972 Maserati Frua QP Prototype, 1974 Pontiac Firebird, 1979 Aston Martin V8 Volante, 1980 Lancia Detla S4 Stradale, 1985 PORSCHE 930 TURBO LE, 1989 Ferrari F40, 1989, De Tomaso Pantera GT5-S, 1990, Jaguar XJ220, 1993, Porsche 993 C2S 1994, TVR Chimarea 4.0 1998, Maserati 90th anniversary spyder 2005.

FUTURE CLASSIC SUPERCARS BUILT: 2006 McLaren-Mercedes SLR, 2007, Ferrari 458 Speciale 2015, PORSCHE 991 Turbo S Exclusive Series, 2018 McLaren Senna, 2018 Aston Martin Vantage Guld Edition 2019, Aston Martin Valiant 2024, Maserati MC20 Cielo 2024, Maserati MC20 2024, Aston Martin Valhalla 2026.

RESTORED & MODIFIED: JAGUAR E-TYPE Series I, 4.2 CHEVROLET BELAIR, JAGUAR E-TYPE, Porsche GT3, RS “RT”Ford RS200, Evo, MG B GT V8, Porsche 911, Rennsport Porsche 914.

MERCEDES-BENZ 100 YEARS:-Type SS – 1928, 300 SL Gullwing 1955,190 SL 1956, 220S 1957,190 SL 1959, 190 SL 1960,190 SL 1961 – ex Shirley Bassey Car, 280SL Pagoda 1969, 280SL Pagoda 1971, 300SL 1987, SLS Black Series 2014, SL63 AMG 2016.

BUY TICKETS

Goodwood Revival will take place Friday 18 – Sunday 20 September.

Goodwood Revival has announced the drivers and riders set to attend in September, as the 2026 event assembles a remarkable line‑up of competitors from across the global motorsport community.

Among the Formula 1 names joining this year’s Revival are Sir Jackie Stewart, Jacques Villeneuve, Jean Alesi, Jenson Button, John Watson, Karun Chandhok and Max Chilton.

From the world of IndyCar and American open‑wheel racing, the Revival welcomes an exceptional group of champions and race winners. Dario Franchitti, Scott Dixon and Tony Kanaan bring an impressive breadth of international success and experience to the weekend’s competition.

Touring‑car enthusiasts will be treated to a formidable assembly of BTCC and touring‑car greats. Anthony Reid, Colin Turkington, Gordon Shedden, Rob Huff, Matt Neal, Tom Ingram and Steve Soper are all confirmed, joined by V8 Supercars icon Greg Murphy and four‑time Bathurst 1000 winner Steven Richards, representing the very best of saloon‑car racing from both sides of the globe.

The Revival’s long‑standing connection to endurance racing will be represented by an extraordinary roster of Le Mans winners and sports‑car specialists. Tom Kristensen, the most successful driver in Le Mans history, returns alongside fellow winners André Lotterer, Benoît Tréluyer, David Brabham, Emanuele Pirro, Frank Stippler, Guy Smith, Justin Bell, Marcel Fässler and Romain Dumas. They are joined by Alex and Chris Buncombe, Darren Turner, Marino Franchitti, Nicolas Minassian, while Aaron Shelby honours the enduring legacy of his grandfather, Carroll Shelby. This year’s celebrations also build on the earlier announcement that the iconic Ford GT Mk II trio which secured the historic 1‑2‑3 finish at Le Mans in 1966 will be reunited at Goodwood, adding further resonance to the Revival’s tribute to endurance‑racing heritage.

Completing the four‑wheeled line‑up, seven‑time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson brings American stock‑car star power to Goodwood, with Simona De Silvestro adding further depth to an already world‑class field.

Joining us on two wheels is an equally distinguished line‑up of motorcycle legends. The Isle of Man TT and road‑racing contingent includes 23‑time TT winner John McGuinness, 16‑time winner Ian Hutchinson, Conor Cummins, James Hillier, Iain Duffus and multiple champion Ian Simpson, with Maria Costello adding her own record‑breaking achievements to the grid.

From the world of World Superbikes and international competition, the Revival welcomes double World Superbike Champion James Toseland, former champion Tom Sykes, Superstock 1000 title‑holder Sylvain Barrier, and MotoGP and WSBK race winners Marco Melandri and Eugene Laverty.

Rounding out the motorcycle roster, Grand Prix and road‑racing favourites – Jeremy McWilliams and Steve Parrish are joined by Freddie Sheene, whose participation follows Goodwood’s earlier announcement of its headline celebration honouring the extraordinary life and career of his late father, Barry Sheene. Freddie’s presence will provide a deeply personal connection to the two‑time 500cc World Champion as the Revival pays tribute to one of Britain’s most charismatic and beloved racing icons.

Tickets can be purchased at goodwood.com or by calling the Ticket Office on +44 (0)1243 755055.

The Concours of Elegance have confirmed that a 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante, a car used personally by Ettore Bugatti himself, will take its place on the lawns of Hampton Court Palace this September.

The Type 57 was the last great touring Bugatti of the pre-war era, developed under the direction of Jean Bugatti from 1933 and unveiled at the 1934 Paris Motor Show. Its 3.3-litre twin-cam straight-eight produced around 135 horsepower, and the factory offered four coachbuilt body styles, each named after a famous mountain pass. The exception was the Atalante – named instead for the Greek mythological figure who outran all men. Capable of nearly 200 km/h, draped in two-tone coachwork of elegant proportions, and the most expensive body in the range, only 33 Atalantes were ever built.

Chassis 57428 is rarer still. It is one of only ten originally delivered with a roll-top roof. Completed in June 1936, it made its public debut that same month at the Concours d’Elegance at the Bois de Boulogne, presented by French actress Dolly Davis, where it won the Grand Prix des Voitures Transformables. Ettore Bugatti was evidently impressed: for a period afterwards, he used the car himself in Paris.

The first recorded private owner, Jules Bloch of Paris, took possession on 9 September 1937. By the early 1950s the car had travelled to Spain, where its original roll-top roof was converted to a full cabriolet. It remained in that form until 2020, when its current custodian acquired it and commissioned a full restoration to the original factory specification.

Concours of Elegance 2026 takes place at Hampton Court Palace from 4-6 September.