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The Marmon Wasp, one of America’s most historic automobiles that was driven to victory in the first Indianapolis 500 race in 1911, makes its first visit to Las Vegas to appear at the 2016 SEMA Show. The car is part of a special public display at the Shell Pioneering Performance exhibition that features other significant race and performance cars. The Marmon Wasp is owned by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. The public display is part of a broad national program developed by the Historic Vehicle Association (HVA) to foster appreciation of America’s automotive heritage.

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

In May, the Marmon Wasp was honored as the eleventh vehicle on the HVA’s National Historic Vehicle Register just prior to the start of the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500. The HVA manages the National Historic Vehicle Register in partnership with the U.S. Dept. of the Interior’s Historic American Engineering Record archived in the Library of Congress. To date, the Marmon Wasp has been extensively documented, measured, 3D scanned and filmed in motion by the HVA under the same Secretary of the Interior’s Standards used to record the Statute of Liberty and Space Shuttle Discovery. Once complete, the material will permanently reside in the Library of Congress, joining the archives of other iconic vehicles such as the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe prototype, the first White House Limousine and the Buick Y-Job. The program is a public/private partnership funded through the HVA to preserve and share America’s automotive heritage.

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

“The yellow #32 Marmon Wasp is arguably one of the most important race cars in America,†said Mark Gessler, President of the Historic Vehicle Association. “That first Indianapolis 500 mile race was designed to attract widespread attention from both American and European racing teams and manufacturers. It proved to be successful and immediately establishing itself both as the premier motorsports competition in the nation and one of the most prestigious in the world. Having the car on display at the SEMA Show provides the public with an opportunity to see the Marmon Wasp and appreciate the role it played in the development of motorsports in the United States.â€

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

“We’re proud of our relationship with the Historic Vehicle Association and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum who helps recognize and celebrate pioneers in the automotive world,” said Don Moser, North American Marketing Manager at Shell Lubricants. “Shell has been pioneering performance for more than 100 years. The Marmon Wasp on display at the Shell “Pioneering Performance” space (#60005) at SEMA, pays tribute to the early pioneers of speed and endurance.”

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

The Marmon Wasp was raced at the 1911 Indianapolis 500 by Ray Harroun who along with Howard Marmon designed the car. The car was a study of innovation from nose to tail. Up front the Wasp used a four shock system to counteract the bumpy conditions of the dirt and gravel surfaces and unpredictability of the new brick surface at Indy. Harroun, the consummate engineer, determined that speeds over 80 mph were disastrous for tires so he kept his speed in check and only changed two tires during the race. The second place car by contrast changed tires fourteen times during the race. The engine was a special design as well adding two more cylinders to the four used in the Marmon 32 Model which was already quite successful in racing. The cockpit was designed only for the driver at a time when racing was typically a two man affair with driver and riding “mechanician.†This shaved significant weight off the car with a narrower body and one less passenger aboard. To accommodate the steering position a gear system was devised to move the steering column to the center of the cockpit. The tail was also unusual in the style of an airplane tail and stabilizer which is not surprising as Harroun was flying the steel monoplane he designed just one month before the 1911 race. Perhaps the cleverest feature was the rear view mirror he installed before the race to address the fear that his driving solo would endanger other racers because he would be without a mechanician on look out. The installation of the rear view mirror centered above the cockpit was apparently inspired by use on a carriage he saw in Chicago years before. Years later Harroun said that the mirror was unfortunately useless during the race because it shook too much.

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

The story of the Marmon Wasp is the story of the greatest personal accomplishment of one of America’s most gifted engineers, race drivers and entrepreneurs. Ray Harroun was born in 1879 in the small town of Spartanburg just south of Erie, Pennsylvania. By the time he was twenty-four, this dentist and chauffer turned race driver was part of a four -man driving team that set the record for the Chicago to New York trip in 1903 and 1904. In addition to the rear view mirror innovation, Harroun also invented the first automobile bumper. His inventiveness and business acumen likely provided the funding he needed to produce his first race car, an 8-cylinder car that averaged over 116 mph on a one-mile run at the Daytona-Ormond Beach events in 1907. He then was contracted by the Nordyke & Marmon Co. of Indianapolis to develop a fast stock car for racing. Over the next several years he became a national celebrity as one of America’s winningest race drivers primarily in the Marmon Model 32. He retired after the 1910 season — for which he was officially honored as National Champion many years later. In 1911, the new safer brick surface and chance to win the first Indianapolis 500-mile race along with the sizable purse were enough to persuade Harroun to return to the track one last time. The “Little Professor†as he was known by the press “dopesters,†drove into history on Tuesday, May 30, 1911 by winning the first Indianapolis 500.

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

He quit “the game†as it was called in that time, as a man on top never to race again. He went on to design successful race cars for Maxwell and his own lightweight Harroun automobiles between 1916 and 1922. These cars were priced very competitively at just under $600. About 500 Harroun cars were produced. Harroun also invented a highly successful kerosene carburetor to deal with the variability of fuels during the period and had a roll in defense manufacturing during WWI.

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Image courtesy of Historic Vehicle Association

Throughout his life he was honored for his accomplishments but foremost as the first winner of the first Indianapolis 500 and the engineering mind behind the innovative Marmon Wasp — the first single seat, open-wheel race car. In 1916, he was honored by Motor Age magazine along with Fred Duesenberg and Louis Chevrolet as one of the ten top engineers “who have made possible present racing cars and speed records.†Ray Harroun worked as an engineer into his seventies and passed away in 1968 at the age of 89 as an American racing legend and one of the great pioneers of performance.

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EVENTS

Fernando Alonso’s New Aston Martin Valkyrie

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2 years ago

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September 6, 2024

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Fernando Alonso takes delivery of his custom Aston Martin Valkyrie, celebrating a career of dedication, precision, and racing excellence

On September 4, 2024, under the stunning backdrop of Monaco, two-time FIA Formula 1® World Champion Fernando Alonso witnessed the realization of a dream as he took delivery of his bespoke Aston Martin Valkyrie. For someone who has dedicated a lifetime to motorsport, this moment wasn’t just the acquisition of a hypercar–it was a symbol of relentless hard work, perseverance, and ultimate triumph. The delivery of the Valkyrie marks not just a milestone in his automotive passion, but a testament to the long journey of sacrifices and dedication that brought him to this point.

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The Aston Martin Valkyrie, often described as a Formula 1 car adapted for the road, encapsulates the pinnacle of modern engineering, a perfect reflection of the precision and innovation Alonso championed throughout his career. For him, this vehicle transcends the notion of luxury or status. It’s a physical representation of his story–an object that symbolizes the values he carried through years of rigorous competition on the world’s most prestigious circuits.

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In many ways, Alonso’s connection to this car runs deeper than ownership. His input into the design and specifications of this particular Valkyrie is evident in every detail. From the striking Satin Aston Martin Racing Green exterior, accented with bold Aston Martin Racing Satin Lime details that highlight the car’s aerodynamics, to the personal elements incorporated through Aston Martin’s “Q by Aston Martin” customization service–this vehicle is a reflection of his personal and professional journey. The design borrows heavily from Alonso’s Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 AMR24 race car, with intricate touches such as the red anodized aluminum accelerator pedal, etched with Alonso’s iconic number 14–a nod to his karting days and early triumphs.

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Stepping inside the Valkyrie is like stepping back into Alonso’s racing cockpit. The interior, dominated by exposed carbon fiber and Pure Black Alcantara, brings to life the spirit of his competitive edge, while the subtle Aston Martin Racing Lime stitching draws parallels to his racing heritage. His personal logo, embroidered into the headrests, is a final, elegant testament to the car’s uniqueness and its deep connection to Alonso’s journey.

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Reflecting on the moment, Alonso shared, “It’s hard to describe just how much this day means to me. The Valkyrie truly feels like a Formula 1 car for the road, built with the same expertise and technology that Aston Martin has perfected on the track. I can’t wait to experience the thrill of driving it.”

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Powered by a hybrid 6.5-liter V12 engine producing an incredible 1,139.2 horsepower, the Valkyrie offers an unparalleled driving experience. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 2.5 seconds, delivering the kind of performance that echoes Alonso’s legendary career. Every aspect of its design, from its aerodynamics to the handcrafted assembly at Aston Martin’s Gaydon headquarters, reflects the spirit of Formula 1. Over 2000 hours are dedicated to building each of the 150 exclusive models–a level of commitment that mirrors the dedication Alonso has shown throughout his career.

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For Alonso, taking the wheel of the Aston Martin Valkyrie is more than just driving a high-performance car. It is the culmination of years spent mastering his craft, pushing the boundaries of speed and precision, and reaching the pinnacle of motorsport. The Valkyrie is a powerful reminder of the discipline and sacrifices that defined his career, from his early karting days to his record-breaking moments on the Formula 1 circuit. Now, with this hypercar at his disposal, Alonso is once again ready to chase the thrill of speed–this time, on the open road.

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The Aston Martin Valkyrie is not just a technological marvel. For Fernando Alonso, it represents the perfect intersection of his past victories and future ambitions. It’s a symbol of the heights that can be reached through determination, focus, and an unyielding desire to achieve greatness–a fitting tribute to a champion who continues to push the limits of performance both on and off the track.

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EVENTS

One-of-a-Kind Koenigsegg Agera N

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2 years ago

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September 1, 2024

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Stunning custom Koenigsegg Agera N wrapped by Yiannimize in Divine Savages design at Salon Privé 2024 – Explore more on Carsfera.com

A rare and breathtakingly beautiful Koenigsegg Agera N, valued at over $3.15 million, has been unveiled at Urban Automotive’s headquarters in Milton Keynes. This unique hypercar, originally from 2011, has undergone a complete transformation through an exclusive collaboration between luxury wallpaper brand Divine Savages and renowned car customizer Yiannimize.

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A Bold New Look for a Rare Hypercar

Commissioned by SuperVettura, the official UK Koenigsegg dealer, in partnership with interior design company Always Sunday, this one-off Koenigsegg Agera N made its grand debut at the prestigious Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace this week. The hypercar’s new aesthetic is a testament to the seamless fusion of high-end automotive engineering with its futuristic interior design.

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The custom wrap, a stunning white and blue floral pattern, draws inspiration from Divine Savages’ signature wallpaper collection. Known for their eclectic and bold designs in luxury wallpapers and fabrics, Divine Savages (@divinesavages) have brought their unique artistic flair to this automotive masterpiece, transforming it into a mobile work of art.

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Yiannimize: The Master of Custom Car Wraps

The intricate wrap was meticulously applied by Yiannimize (@Yiannimize), a name synonymous with top-tier car customization. Yianni Charalambous, the founder of Yiannimize, expressed his excitement about the project:

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“At Yiannimize, we’ve wrapped some very special and individual cars over the years, but this Koenigsegg for SuperVettura is certainly up there as one of the most complex and head-turning jobs we’ve completed. The wallpaper design is intricate and was a real challenge to perfect, but I’m so pleased with the way it has turned out – it’s a showstopper for sure!”

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The wrap, which complements the Koenigsegg’s aggressive lines, was applied at Urban Automotive’s specialized installation bay. The design process was documented in a behind-the-scenes video that premiered on Yiannimize’s YouTube channel, offering viewers an exclusive look at the transformation of this hypercar, which is already one of the most coveted vehicles in the world.

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A Unique Collaboration with a Passion for Design

Lexi Wareham-Dart, owner of Always Sunday and a Koenigsegg collector, played a crucial role in bringing this collaboration to life. Reflecting on the project, she said:

“Koenigsegg cars are masterpieces of engineering and design, and when we had the opportunity to combine this with the creative forces behind the wallpaper design duo Divine Savages, it was not only marrying two of my favourite things, but it was a fresh, unique look for a car that has created many memories for both Tommy and me with SuperVettura.”

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This collaboration not only highlights the convergence of automotive excellence and interior design but also underscores the creativity and passion that went into crafting this one-of-a-kind vehicle.

Salon Privé Debut: Turning Heads at Blenheim Palace

The newly transformed Koenigsegg Agera N made its first public appearance at the prestigious Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace from 28-31 August. Salon Privé is one of the world’s most exclusive automotive events, attracting car collectors and enthusiasts from around the globe. The Koenigsegg Agera N, with its striking new design, quickly became one of the event’s highlights, captivating attendees with its unique blend of art and engineering.

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The Legacy of a Showstopper

This custom-wrapped Koenigsegg Agera N is more than just a car; it is a testament to the artistry and innovation that define the luxury automotive world. From the intricate floral wrap by Divine Savages to the expert application by Yiannimize, every detail of this project was executed with precision and passion. The result is a hypercar that not only showcases the best of automotive engineering but also pushes the boundaries of design and creativity.

As the car continues to turn heads, its journey from concept to creation stands as a remarkable example of what can be achieved when two creative powerhouses come together. The collaboration between SuperVettura, Always Sunday, Divine Savages, and Yiannimize has set a new standard in the world of luxury car customization, making this Koenigsegg Agera N an unforgettable icon in the automotive world.

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EVENTS

Bentley Unveils the Ultimate GT Speed in the US

Published

2 years ago

on

August 15, 2024

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A sleek, orange sports car driving on an open road under a cloudy sky.

The new, fourth-generation Bentley Continental GT Speed, a pinnacle of luxury and performance, has made its grand entrance into the United States, marking its debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering during the illustrious Monterey Car Week.

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A Bespoke Masterpiece: Mulliner’s Craftsmanship

Leading the launch is a stunning, one-of-a-kind Continental GT Speed, commissioned through Mulliner. This bespoke example features a vibrant Orange Flame Satin exterior, contrasted with gloss black accents and 22-inch ten-spoke wheels. The interior is equally impressive, with Gravity Grey and Brunel leathers accented by Mandarin orange, showcasing the endless customization possibilities available through Mulliner’s Personal Commissioning Guide.

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Mulliner, known for its exquisite craftsmanship, has outdone itself with this creation, blending the highest levels of luxury with cutting-edge technology. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the precision stitching in the interior to the flawless application of the unique satin paint, which takes up to 55 hours to perfect.

Unmatched Performance: The Ultra Performance Hybrid

The new Continental GT Speed is not just about looks; it boasts an ultra-performance hybrid powertrain that sets it apart as the most dynamic Bentley to date. Under the hood lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, paired with a powerful electric motor. This combination delivers an astonishing 782 PS (771 bhp) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb.ft) of torque, enabling the GT Speed to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 208 mph.

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Despite its incredible performance, the new GT Speed remains practical for everyday use. The hybrid system allows for an all-electric range of 50 miles on the EU cycle, with a total range exceeding 500 miles. This blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury makes the GT Speed a true supercar for all occasions.

Bentley’s Presence at Monterey Car Week

Bentley’s participation in Monterey Car Week extends beyond the Continental GT Speed. The brand has brought along the Speed Six Continuation Series and a meticulously restored 1961 S2 Drophead Coupe, adding a touch of heritage to the modern lineup. These vehicles will be on display and participating in various events throughout the week, including the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

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The unveiling of the Continental GT Speed marks the beginning of a nationwide tour across the US, where potential customers will have the opportunity to experience Bentley’s latest innovation firsthand through test drives and exclusive events.

A New Era for Bentley

The fourth-generation Continental GT Speed represents the latest evolution in Bentley’s quest to combine supercar performance with handcrafted luxury. With its powerful hybrid engine, bespoke customization options, and cutting-edge technology, the new GT Speed sets a new standard in the luxury grand tourer segment.

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As production begins later this year, with deliveries expected by Q4 2024, the anticipation for this remarkable vehicle is only set to grow. Bentley continues to solidify its position as a leader in the luxury automotive market, with the Continental GT Speed exemplifying the brand’s commitment to excellence.

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