Norton Way Corporate Magazine - July 2022

JUL 2022

ISSUE 90

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 90 • JULY 2022

HONDA

ALL-NEW HONDA CIVIC TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT MILAN DESIGN WEEK

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o celebrate the European launch of the all-new Honda Civic e:HEV, the car took centre stage at the Vanity Fair ‘Social Garden’ exhibition at Milan Design Week 2022.

“We are delighted to be able to share the Civic with the Italian public for the first time. The response to the car so far has been outstanding and hosting at Milan Design Week provides an opportunity to engage with design-focused customers,” explains Italy General Manager Automobile Division, Simone Mattogno.

Honda’s all-new 11th-generation Civic has been engineered with a unique human-centred approach to dynamics and design.

Following the ‘exhilarating Civic’ development ethos, Honda engineers focused on how exterior and interior packaging can work together to create a more comfortable and refreshing in-car experience that will enhance owners’ everyday lives.

Dynamic exterior design

Honda’s ‘exhilarating’ development approach has created a modern evolution of the Civic’s exterior design, that also echoes the noiseless, elegant design direction of other recent Honda models. The new Civic features a lower, sleeker roof line, and a lower belt line that increases the glasshouse, improving outward visibility and delivering the same sense of airiness experienced inside the original Civic.

To create the sportier, coupe-like aesthetic, the new Civic’s wheelbase is 35mm longer than the previous model, but with a 20mm shorter rear overhang, and reduced overall height. The highest point of the roof line is set further forward than the previous model, with a gentle slope to the tailgate completing its sleek look.

The resin tailgate, developed through a new manufacturing technology, reduces the tailgate weight by 20% compared to its predecessor and is crucial for achieving the sleeker design. This approach to restrained, smooth design is also apparent around the front of the car; where the bonnet and front fenders are lower by 25mm, with the A-pillars 50mm further rearward. This reduced frontal mass which combined with the wider rear track and wheel arch hemming, creates a lower, more assured stance and projects a sense of greater agility.

Enhanced interior comfort and convenience

Inside the cabin, Honda’s M/M development principle is exemplified by a humancentred interior that has been designed to ensure premium levels of refinement and spaciousness. The cabin has greater visibility and airiness thanks to the low, flat dashboard, external mirror positioning and large windows all-round.

What this translates to, is an interior design that embodies the same clean, modern design philosophy as the exterior; with an uncluttered, user-focused layout featuring high quality materials and tactile touchpoints that enhance the experience for drivers and passengers.

Despite the lower roofline, interior headroom and cabin space remain the same as the previous model, thanks to the clever packaging of hybrid components into the chassis and engine bay. The new Civic’s generous cargo area has the same load capacity as before – among the largest in its segment.

The Civic has set new benchmarks ever since its launch fifty years ago, selling more than 27.5 million units across 170 countries. The all-new version arrives in Europe from autumn 2022.

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MAZDA

MAZDA DEVELOPS NEW RHODIUM WHITE AS THIRD SIGNATURE BODY COLOUR

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Crystal and Machine Grey as a third signature body colour and will debut on the all-new Mazda CX-60.

In the belief that paintwork is a crucial part of what gives shape to a vehicle, Mazda has focused its efforts on developing hues that accentuate the dynamic and delicate expression of the company’s Kodo: Soul of Motion design philosophy. Rhodium White is a pure white inspired by Japanese aesthetics, finding beauty in simplicity and the absence of superfluous elements. Furthermore, the paint’s fine grain accentuates the shadows on the surface of the vehicle complementing the metallic texture of Rhodium White.

Mazda’s approach uses advanced paint technology to create colours with rich depth and radiance that highlight every sensuous curve and line of a car, while also ensuring to reduce the environmental impact of the painting process in keeping with the brand’s long-term Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030 vision. In a process called, Takuminuri (Takumi: master craftsman, Nuri: painting), cutting-edge painting robots use data obtained through simulation painting with Mazda’s

he first opportunity to see Mazda’s newly developed Rhodium White will be on the all-new Mazda CX60 from this Autumn and then the colour will be rolled-out across upcoming models in Mazda’s Large Product group. Joining the UK lineup above the ever-popular 2022 Mazda CX-5, the Mazda CX-60 flagship SUV will be launched with Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid technology powertrain, which combines a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre fourcylinder petrol engine with a 100 kW electric motor and a 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery. Available to order now for delivery in autumn, the all-new Mazda CX-60 will be offered with a choice of eight body colours: Jet Black, Deep Crystal Blue, Sonic Silver, Platinum Quartz, Arctic White, Rhodium White, Machine Grey and Soul Red Crystal.

Mazda has introduced a new body colour, Rhodium White, a special paint created using Mazda’s unique Takuminuri* painting technology.

With a reputation for striking exteriors and awardwinning design, the new colour joins Soul Red 4 4

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best craftsmen to replicate traditional techniques to give mass-production vehicles a precise, high-quality and handsprayed finish which enhances the beauty and sophistication of Kodo design.

While developing Rhodium White, Mazda was able to take Takuminuri to new heights, successfully mass producing an expressive finish using only three layers: a clear layer, a reflective layer and the coloured layer. This coloured layer provides a newly developed white pigment that delivers a silky smooth, fine-grain white. As standard practice with white paints, the undercoat tends to show through, and the clear coat is generally thicker than for other tonalities. Rhodium White however, uses a newly developed pigment which Mazda was able to reduce the thickness of the clear coat by up to 30 per cent. This contributes to a more efficient use of resources and a reduction of CO2 emissions during the production process.

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NISSAN

NEW NISSAN JUKE ‘ADVANCED’ HYBRID AND NOW OPEN FOR ORDERS

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esigned to provide the driver with responsive acceleration, refined cruising and efficient low emissions; all whilst emphasising maximum use of EV mode, without any additional driver input, the Juke Hybrid delivers the best of all worlds.

The Juke hybrid range sits alongside the existing Juke line-up and starts with N-Connecta grade, followed by the Tekna and Tekna+.

N-Connecta and extends up to the highly equipped and stylish Tekna.

All hybrid versions come equipped with Nissan’s e-Pedal Step which, when activated, allows the movement of the car to be controlled using just the accelerator pedal. When the foot is lifted from the accelerator, moderate braking is applied (up to 0.15g) and will decelerate the Juke to a crawl (~3mph).

Externally the hybrid can be identified by the fitment of a new front grille mesh design with a smaller aperture to optimise aero efficiency and hybrid badging fitted to the side and rear of the vehicle. All-new Nissan Ariya-derived two-tone 19” Aero alloy wheels are now standard on Tekna+ models for visual impact and efficiency.

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Juke hybrid also benefits from the product improvements recently introduced on the overall Juke range, including two-tone 17” alloy wheels, a more aerodynamic rear spoiler, improved BOSE® Personal Plus® audio system now with 10 speakers and improved keyless entry which includes walk away lock / approach unlock function. Two new colours - Ceramic Grey and Magnetic Blue have also been added.

Inside the cabin, the driver’s information display has been redesigned to give more information about the new electrified powertrain status. The right-hand of the driver’s two instrument dials shows speed and the left-hand dial shows a power gauge.

Within the lower portion of the left-hand dial, there’s a gauge showing the battery’s state of charge.

The button for e-Pedal is positioned in the centre console, behind the electric parking brake switch, while the button to activate 100 per cent EV mode is between two of the central air-vents.

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PEUGEOT

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Peugeot unveils new 408 Fastback Peugeot has unveiled the 408, a new fastback model that’s designed to combine the best bits of a saloon, hatchback and SUV. It’s based on the existing 308, and retains a five-door configuration, but is both longer and taller. The powertrain line-up includes two plug-in hybrids and a petrol engine. There will also be a fully electric 408 that follows.

The 408 will arrive in early 2023, positioned between the 308 and 3008. It will offer more practicality than a regular hatchback, with a large 536-litre boot, but also improved driveability and efficiency when compared to a conventional crossover.

Linda Jackson, CEO of Peugeot, said: "At Peugeot, we believe that life is better with allure. With its unique looks, innovative fastback silhouette and unbridled elegance, the new 408 is the perfect expression of Peugeot’s philosophy and inventiveness.

“Unexpected from every angle, it has been designed for lovers of cars and of life, who want to break free from the traditional while seeking responsible pleasure. It encompasses all of Peugeot’s technological demands – controlled efficiency and a connected digital experience – and all the emotions associated with instinctive driving pleasure and a peaceful journey."

Peugeot’s i-Cockpit interior architecture is used in the 408. It uses the same dashboard as the 308, featuring the brand’s latest infotainment system. Rear passenger space is said to be the most generous in the Peugeot line-up.

The new 408 is expected to go on sale later this year. Pricing is yet to be confirmed.

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SKODA

ŠKODA pulls in a pair of awards at the annual What Car

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KODA is once again an award-winning choice for those who take to the road with a caravan in tow, with two models taking home titles in this year’s What Car? Tow Car Awards 2022. The highly acclaimed ŠKODA KAROQ demonstrated its versatility as the winner of the 1550-1699kg weight class.

The nimble SCALA is named best towing Up to 1400kg.

What Car? in partnership with The Camping and Caravanning Club has named the best tow cars in the industry in its annual awards.

The ŠKODA KAROQ has proved it’s the perfect choice for owners and families looking for an SUV that can expertly tow. The 2.0-litre TDI 150 SE L 4x4 DSG drivetrain has been highlighted as the model of choice in the 15501699kg category.

Commenting on the win, Steve Huntingford editor at What Car?, said: “The KAROQ is one of those cars that ticks all the right boxes; it’s a superb all-rounder.” Steve added: “Solid straight-line performance is matched with excellent stability. None of our drivers had any qualms about towing at up to 70mph on the test track. Even the lanechange test left the KAROQ unfazed.”

The ŠKODA SCALA is the best on the road in the Up to 1400kg category. The 1.0-litre TSI SE engine made a big impression on the judges who praised its refined drive and fuel economy. “Small cars rarely tow well, but the ŠKODA SCALA is an exception.” Steve added. “It’s smooth and quiet, and doesn’t protest too loudly when it’s put to work, which it needs to be while towing.”

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r? Tow Car Awards 2022

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NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 90 • JULY 2022

GWR KIA

KIA XCEED VOTED BEST CAR TO OWN IN 2022 DRIVER POWER SURVEY

Kia has topped the annual Driver Power survey, the UK’s most comprehensive analysis of car owner satisfaction. Kia’s current-generation XCeed secured the top spot overall, beating dozens of other cars to be named as the most satisfying car to own among UK customers. Kia also secured four category wins, had three models in the top 10 of all models evaluated, and came third overall in the brand rankings. The results are published today in the latest issue of Auto Express magazine.

Kia’s four category wins were ‘Best Small SUV’ for the XCeed, ‘Best Supermini’ for the Rio, ‘Best City Car’ for the Picanto, and ‘Best Compact Family Car’ for the Ceed. The Kia XCeed, Rio and Sportage models featured in the overall top 10. The Niro, Picanto, Ceed and all-electric e-Niro also made it into the top 20.

Driver Power is the UK’s leading independent car ownership satisfaction study. It has been running for over 20 years and has gathered detailed ownership and satisfaction feedback from over half a million UK car owners to-date. As well as completing the annual study, consumers can provide feedback at any time, helping to build a realistic picture of product reliability and real-life ownership experiences.

Steve Fowler, Auto Express editor-in-chief, said: "It’s clear that Far Eastern manufacturers like Kia are extending their appeal over European badges in terms of the long-term ownership experience. Kia's XCeed was the clear winner with Driver Power respondents noting an unusually strong margin of victory over the most popular runners up, the Mazda CX-5 and Kia Rio.” “Our product range has seen a strategic and significant enhancement in design, innovation, practicality, technology and driving experience recently, truly showing our commitment to product development. Whilst we’re very confident in our products, it remains humbling to receive such high praise in the Driver Power awards, not only for our products, but the ownership experience too,” comments Simon Hetherington, Commercial Director, Kia UK. “Customers value the Kia Promise, enhanced by our industry leading seven-year warranty, as well as the consistently excellent service provided by our retail and aftersales network partners, without whom this recognition would simply not be possible.”

Every Kia sold in the UK – whether powered by internal combustion, electric power, or

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MG

MG secures double win at Auto Trader New Car Awards 2022

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he popular MG HS and MG5 EV have continued their prize-winning form, having been named Best Car for City Drivers and Best Car for Dog Owners respectively at the sixth annual Auto Trader New Car Awards.

Praised by owners for its comfort, safety, and reliability, the MG HS fought off strong competition from the Toyota Yaris and Vauxhall Corsa to claim the crown as the UK’s Best Car for City Drivers.

Sporty on the outside yet family-friendly on the inside, the MG HS is available with a choice of a spritely but efficient 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine or a plug-in hybrid model that delivers up to 32 miles of electric-only driving with zero tailpipe emissions – enough for a typical commute.

Erin Baker, Auto Trader’s Editorial Director, said: “The MG HS might be a large SUV, but owners who live in the city absolutely love it. They value its comfort, safety and the reliability it brings.

We received some brilliant feedback from owners who told us the MG was so easy to charge and is great for use in towns. Some commented on the exceptional interior as well as the very low running costs.”

The all-electric MG5 EV, meanwhile, collected the award for Best Car for Dog Owners after it drew praise for its space and practicality, beating

competing finalists the Toyota RAV4 and Peugeot 208.

“When it comes to the best car for dogs, consumers valued space, comfort and ease of use for transporting their four-legged friends,” said Baker.

The 100% electric MG5 EV offers up to 250 miles of driving range (WLTP) and rapid charging to 80% in just 61 minutes. Its highly practical estate body style delivers 578 litres of storage space, rising to 1,456 litres with the rear seats folded, in a cargo area filled with clever touches such as a dual-height boot floor.

Both the MG5 and MG HS feature a generous level of standard equipment that includes adaptive cruise control, automatic headlights, a rear parking camera, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Unlike other car awards which rely solely on editorial judging panels, the winners of the Auto Trader New Car Awards are determined by 156,500 genuine car owners who voted for 19 of this year’s 22 categories, making them true consumer champions.

Owners who have bought, driven and lived with their new cars were asked to rate them

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according to a range of lifestyle factors. The Auto Trader New Car Awards cover a broad range of consumer-centric categories, including Most Fun to Drive, Best Car for Dog Owners, and the Best Car for New Drivers.

The historic brand recently announced it had enjoyed a record start to 2022, achieving more sales in the first five months of this year than in the entirety of 2020, a notable performance that looks set to continue thanks to a number of brand new models promised for later this year.

All MGs are backed by a comprehensive 7-year warranty.

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BIKES

MCN ADV350 (2022 – on) Review

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onda struck gold when they released the X-ADV in 2017. Half scooter, half adventure bike, it may not have captured the imagination of riders in the UK, but for the rest of the world, especially Europe, where scooter culture a much bigger part of everyday life, they’ve flown out of showrooms.

Not only did they sell nearly 44,000 of them up to the end of 2021, but it was also Honda’s best-selling bike of that year, too.

So, it makes sense that they’d produce a smaller, more affordable version: the ADV350.

The new twist-and-go makes perfect sense for commuters who want a bit more poke and flexibility than a 125. Not only will the ADV350 ping to motorway speeds as quick as you’d naturally accelerate on a motorcycle and do over 95mph, it has genuine big-bike handling, braking power and road presence.

It’s smooth, simple to ride, comfortable and with superb fuel economy and lots of storage, it’s practical, too. Best of all it’s cheaper than its premium brand rivals, despite its superb build quality and generous equipment level.

Ride quality & brakes What really separates the ADV350 from your average scooter is the way it’s screwed together and how it holds the road. This is no flimsy, built down to a price runabout.

It’s solid, well finished (it comes in red, silver and black) and doesn’t crash, bang and fold itself in half when you show it a small bump. Granted

the ride can be firm over rough roads – the payoff for being able to handle the dirt, but thanks to its lightweight tubular steel frame and proper forks, the Honda is stable, confident in corners and its Metzelers have lots of wet and dry grip.

Honda’s Rome-based R&D department have been unapologetically bold with the adventure styling, too. It’s a physically large and substantial machine, but at the same time light, agile and manageable to ride.

Engine Powered by the same 29bhp, 330cc single cylinder engine you’ll find in Honda’s maxi scooterstyle Forza 350 and pizza delivery-shaped SH350i, the ADV350 is smooth, quiet and friendly.

Spritely performance has more in common with a big cube maxi-scooter than an oversized 125 and it’s smoother at low speed than its bigger 750cc parallel twin cylinder sister, simply because it has a proper ‘elastic band’ scooter CVT gearbox, rather than the X-ADV’s jerky DCT. Reliability & build quality Although it’s a new model, you can use Honda’s X-ADV and 300/350cc scooter range as a gauge to any reliability issues… and there aren’t any. Fit and finish are excellent, too.

Equipment Standard goodies include 37mm Showa upside down forks and twin piggyback shocks with dual rate springs, a Nissin front brake caliper, a four-way adjustable screen, hand guards, wide adventure style handlebars, LED lights, keyless ignition, two USB chargers, ABS and two-stage (including 'off') torque control.

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NORTON WAY EVENT

SmartestEnergy’s Net Zero Week Festival 2022

If your intending on attending the event, please register via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/nortonwayevent

Are you involved in UK decarbonisation efforts and e-mobility?

Book to attend SmartestEnergy’s Net Zero Week Festival 2022 in Canary Wharf to learn more about energy transition challenges and opportunities directly from industry stakeholders About SmartestEnergy SmartestEnergy is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Marubeni Corporation and founding sponsors of the UK’s Net Zero Awareness Week.

Following the success of SmartestEnergy’s first ‘Net Zero Week Festival’ last year, they are bringing back the event by popular demand! The event will be held at their office in Canary Wharf on Thursday 7th July and will include fascinating speakers who have a shared passion for climate change, innovative perspectives on net zero and real-life experiences to share. They’ll discuss what net zero means to them and how individuals, businesses and the sector as a whole can make meaningful changes in the race to reduce emissions and meet our climate change targets.

If you’re interested in arranging a dedicated one to one meeting to discuss your decarbonisation or e-mobility journey, feel free to drop us a line to book in an appointment, we would love to see you there! Please contact Imran on 07730 212 515 to book your meeting.

Alternatively, if you can’t make it on the day feel free to contact us and we can meet with you via video call or in-person.

SMARTESTENERGY’S NET ZERO WEEK FESTIVAL 2022 

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