WHEELS News
Our pick of what’s hot, fun and quite simply bizarre.
Coupe or Spyder – why not BOTH?
McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has created a unique MSO R Coupé and a Spider for one customer. The two MSO R cars, which have the same external, internal and mechanical specifications, are finished in a striking yet understated Liquid Silver – the Coupé in satin and the Spider in gloss finish – with a carbon fibre central stripe. Immediately identifiable as a matched pair, both have the same design of twin-element rear wing, with front dive planes to further enhance aerodynamic performance. The engines of both cars have been blueprinted and the heads and exhaust ports hand-polished, helping to give the M838TL twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine maximum power of 679bhp and up to 700Nm.
PROJECT NEPTUNE
Project Neptune – An Aston Martin Submarine. Yes, you read that correctly; Aston Martin Consulting’s first project is none other than a submarine! Project Neptune is a creative collaboration with Triton Submarines LLC (acclaimed manufacturer of state-of-the-art submersibles) and allows the Aston Martin brand to delve deeper into the luxury world, it takes Triton’s acclaimed low profile (LP) three-person platform as a basis upon which to explore a new iteration of Aston Martin’s progressive design language. Aston Martin Consulting managing director, Bradley Yorke-Biggs, says: “Project Neptune is a flagship project for Aston Martin Consulting. It is a clear and engaging demonstration of how Aston Martin’s expertise in sports car design and craftsmanship can be extended into new aspects of the luxury world.”
Lo–load–er – Futura Trailers
When it comes to the likes of ‘Classic’ or ‘Race’ it’s safe to say that car owners are very protective over their pride and joy, and relocating them can be a nail-biting experience. However, now, thanks to the geniuses at Futura Trailers, Transportation Anxiety is a thing of the past. With safe and easy loading from the ground (no need for ramps) and its simple push button-lifting technology, single or tandem axle, Futura trailers have been designed to transport wide and low stance vehicles effortlessly. In their own words: ‘We don’t build ordinary trailers; we design and create trailers fit for purpose. utilising our knowledge of trailer building passed down since 1956.’
By the way, you can grab a Futura trailer from our favourite New Zealand racetrack, Hampton Downs Motorsport Park.
Mercedes me(lbourne)
If you’re in Melbourne, love Mercedes and hanging out for a coffee, then you’re in luck… introducing Mercedes me. Designed by local architects, Jackson Clement Burrows, Mercedes me is a hub of creativity in a relaxed and welcoming space in collaboration with pioneering coffee experts, ST. ALi. By day it will operate as a café, but it’s much more than that – and brand new to Australia. With digital touchpoints, a special vehicle, brand specialists, modern menus and innovative event concepts, the Mercedes me store will attract a younger demographic and those keen to experience the Mercedes-Benz lifestyle. The goal of the Mercedes me stores globally is to enable people to experience the Mercedes-Benz brand in a casual and relaxed setting. This is not the automotive world as we know it; it’s a unique new space where café culture meets Mercedes-Benz lifestyle. We’re looking forward to the invite!