Fiat 500 by Gucci?Video?

Gucci and Fiat unveiled the 500 by Gucci, the special-edition model is available in a black and white exterior color with Gucci scheme green-red-green stripes. The vehicle will debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

The stripes also appears inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets and on the seatbelts. The interior also features chic embroidery, exclusive materials, glossy and satin chromes, the velvety varnish on the �radioboard,� the two-toned seats in Frau leather with the Guccissima print.

Based on the 100bhp 1.4-litre petrol powered model, outside, the car comes with 195/45 R16 wheels, with rear brake calipers in Gucci green.

While Fiat marked the collaboration with the car, Gucci has come out with a a range of clothing and accessories to mark the occasion, including bags, hats, scarves, sunglasses and even a wristwatch. Both were launched at Milan Fashion Week, and will be displayed at a dedicated stand at the Geneva Motor Show next week.




Press Release

Fiat and Gucci announce the "500 by Gucci": a new italian design icon is born

In the year that sees the celebration of both the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy and Gucci's 90th anniversary, Gucci and Fiat are proud to unveil the 500 by Gucci, a special edition of the iconic Fiat 500 customized by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in partnership with Fiat's Centro Stile. This unique collaboration between two of Italy's fastfivecars respected brands represents the perfect - combination of craftsmanship and style. Launched on the opening day of Milan Fashion Week, the 500 by Gucci will also be on presented at the Geneva International Auto Show from March 3rd to13th, in a dedicated Gucci pop-up store within the Fiat stand.

Frida Giannini said, "In the 50s the Fiat 500 created a style revolution when it first hit the road. It quickly become the must-have car of its time. Travelling in style has also been at the heart of Gucci ever since Guccio Gucci founded his company as a producer of leather trunks, suitcases and handbags in 1921. So, when Lapo Elkann suggested the idea of this collaboration it struck me as a perfect opportunity to create a new modern travel statement in this Gucci's 90th anniversary year".

The black and white colours of the 500 by Gucci, in unique eye-catching glossy pearl glass paint, set the stage for a neo-classic black and white film. These two distinct colors complement one another: black, with detailing in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary and racy attitude. White, with satin chrome detailing and ivory and black interiors for a softer, sophisticated look.

The exterior is further personalized by rims for 195/45 R16 wheels, including the unmistakable retro design of the rays, harmonizing with the surrounding exterior colors and representing a novelty for this category of car. The hubcaps feature the interlocking GG in the same color of the body of the car and the cursive Gucci signature appears on the hatchback as well on the doorpost. The version equipped with 1.4 of 100 horsepower comes with rear break callipers in Gucci green. The car's silhouette is outlined by Gucci's signature green-red-green stripe, which runs along the entire perimeter and links the exterior to the interior. The stripe also appears inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets, and in an innovative finish on the seatbelts. The interior space of the 500 by Gucci is stylish yet functional down to every last detail: chic embroidery, exclusive materials, glossy and satin chromes, the velvety varnish on the "radioboard," the two-toned seats in Frau leather with the Guccissima print.

The communications activity behind the worldwide launch of the 500 by Gucci is being developed with the support of Lapo Elkann and his agency, Independent Ideas, and will include a fully integrated above and below-the-line campaign. Commenting on the collaboration, Lapo Elkann said: �I am honored that I was able to connect Fiat and Gucci, especially in such an important anniversary year for Italy. Being Italian, it makes me proud to have contributed to this 500 by Gucci, which brings together the spirit of two brands that so perfectly symbolize our country's savoir faire in the world. It has indeed been very gratifying to work again on the car I love fastfivecars with Fiat's Centro Stile and with Frida Giannini�.

The 500 by Gucci will initially be available from April 1st to June 30th exclusively by pre-order online at www.500bygucci.com, with a list price in Italy that starts from 17,000 euro all inclusive. The car will also be displayed in exclusive locations in metropolitan cities such as Paris, London and Tokyo, followed by the European commercial launch in July. It will then become available in the rest of the world at the end of the year.

Completing the customization is the exclusive 500 by Gucci collection, including travel accessories, small leather goods, drivers, tracksuits, bombers, driver gloves, sunglasses and a watch, which will be available in select Gucci stores and online at www.gucci.com from April 2011.

Fiat 500 by Gucci?Video?

Gucci and Fiat unveiled the 500 by Gucci, the special-edition model is available in a black and white exterior color with Gucci scheme green-red-green stripes. The vehicle will debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

The stripes also appears inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets and on the seatbelts. The interior also features chic embroidery, exclusive materials, glossy and satin chromes, the velvety varnish on the �radioboard,� the two-toned seats in Frau leather with the Guccissima print.

Based on the 100bhp 1.4-litre petrol powered model, outside, the car comes with 195/45 R16 wheels, with rear brake calipers in Gucci green.

While Fiat marked the collaboration with the car, Gucci has come out with a a range of clothing and accessories to mark the occasion, including bags, hats, scarves, sunglasses and even a wristwatch. Both were launched at Milan Fashion Week, and will be displayed at a dedicated stand at the Geneva Motor Show next week.




Press Release

Fiat and Gucci announce the "500 by Gucci": a new italian design icon is born

In the year that sees the celebration of both the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy and Gucci's 90th anniversary, Gucci and Fiat are proud to unveil the 500 by Gucci, a special edition of the iconic Fiat 500 customized by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini in partnership with Fiat's Centro Stile. This unique collaboration between two of Italy's fastfivecars respected brands represents the perfect - combination of craftsmanship and style. Launched on the opening day of Milan Fashion Week, the 500 by Gucci will also be on presented at the Geneva International Auto Show from March 3rd to13th, in a dedicated Gucci pop-up store within the Fiat stand.

Frida Giannini said, "In the 50s the Fiat 500 created a style revolution when it first hit the road. It quickly become the must-have car of its time. Travelling in style has also been at the heart of Gucci ever since Guccio Gucci founded his company as a producer of leather trunks, suitcases and handbags in 1921. So, when Lapo Elkann suggested the idea of this collaboration it struck me as a perfect opportunity to create a new modern travel statement in this Gucci's 90th anniversary year".

The black and white colours of the 500 by Gucci, in unique eye-catching glossy pearl glass paint, set the stage for a neo-classic black and white film. These two distinct colors complement one another: black, with detailing in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary and racy attitude. White, with satin chrome detailing and ivory and black interiors for a softer, sophisticated look.

The exterior is further personalized by rims for 195/45 R16 wheels, including the unmistakable retro design of the rays, harmonizing with the surrounding exterior colors and representing a novelty for this category of car. The hubcaps feature the interlocking GG in the same color of the body of the car and the cursive Gucci signature appears on the hatchback as well on the doorpost. The version equipped with 1.4 of 100 horsepower comes with rear break callipers in Gucci green. The car's silhouette is outlined by Gucci's signature green-red-green stripe, which runs along the entire perimeter and links the exterior to the interior. The stripe also appears inside on the seats, on the gear shift, the key-cover, the carpets, and in an innovative finish on the seatbelts. The interior space of the 500 by Gucci is stylish yet functional down to every last detail: chic embroidery, exclusive materials, glossy and satin chromes, the velvety varnish on the "radioboard," the two-toned seats in Frau leather with the Guccissima print.

The communications activity behind the worldwide launch of the 500 by Gucci is being developed with the support of Lapo Elkann and his agency, Independent Ideas, and will include a fully integrated above and below-the-line campaign. Commenting on the collaboration, Lapo Elkann said: �I am honored that I was able to connect Fiat and Gucci, especially in such an important anniversary year for Italy. Being Italian, it makes me proud to have contributed to this 500 by Gucci, which brings together the spirit of two brands that so perfectly symbolize our country's savoir faire in the world. It has indeed been very gratifying to work again on the car I love fastfivecars with Fiat's Centro Stile and with Frida Giannini�.

The 500 by Gucci will initially be available from April 1st to June 30th exclusively by pre-order online at www.500bygucci.com, with a list price in Italy that starts from 17,000 euro all inclusive. The car will also be displayed in exclusive locations in metropolitan cities such as Paris, London and Tokyo, followed by the European commercial launch in July. It will then become available in the rest of the world at the end of the year.

Completing the customization is the exclusive 500 by Gucci collection, including travel accessories, small leather goods, drivers, tracksuits, bombers, driver gloves, sunglasses and a watch, which will be available in select Gucci stores and online at www.gucci.com from April 2011.

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured

Land Rover has revealed the Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle, The model replaces the outgoing Discovery 3 model, offering the same great off-road capability and level of protection, but an updated specification to keep up with the times.

The new Discovery 4 model features a more powerful 5.0-liter LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination produces a total of 375 HP that can get the SUV from 0-60mph in just 10.6 seconds.

The base car underwent endless engineering changes to safeguard best float as well as doing opening, in spite of a combined weight of a shield. Although a SUV weighs 3550 kg (7826 lbs) heavy duty 6-caliper front as well as 4-caliper back Alcon front brakes safeguard a vehicle stops as well as a standard chronicle. The wheels have been wrapped in run flat Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tires, ensuring the quick-getaway even if the tires are punctured.

From the exterior it�s hard to spot the difference, mainly because there is no immediate difference; it all looks pretty much the same. Nonetheless, every bit of protection plating has been blended in with the car�s design and passes all European compliance standards.

The all-wheel drive Discovery 4 Armoured is also fitted with a Terrain Response System which has various settings that adapt to fastfivecars types of surfaces such as mud, grass or rocks.
The Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured comes with a 3-year, 80,000 km factory warranty on both the vehicle and the armour.




Press Release

Land Rover Introduces Powerful New Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle

Gaydon, Warwickshire, December 17, 2010 - Land Rover is enhancing its range of factory-supported armoured vehicles with the launch of the powerful new Discovery 4 Armoured.

Replacing the successful Discovery 3 model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers the same legendary all-terrain capability and state-of-the-art protection, but features an upgraded specification to deliver superior levels of performance, luxury and style.

Compared to the previous model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers a more powerful 5.0-litre LR-V8 petrol engine, improved passive safety with an airbag restraint system for driver and front passenger, and a more luxurious interior with premium leather seats.

With discreet armouring and a generous 500kg payload, the new model provides highly versatile, safe and comfortable transportation for five people and their luggage.

Benefiting from Land Rover's extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, the Discovery 4 Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians.

"The new Discovery 4 Armoured offers an outstanding breadth of capability, and enables occupants to travel across challenging terrains in confidence and safety," says John Graham, Commercial Manager Armoured Programs, Land Rover.

"Developed by Land Rover in partnership with global leaders in vehicle security, the Discovery 4 is the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations."

Fully certified armouring systems
Although virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the Discovery 4 Armoured features ballistic steel armour and glazing which provides ballistic protection in accordance with European standards BS EN1522 level FB6 and BS EN 1063 level BR6 respectively.

Developed in partnership with the vehicle armouring specialists Centigon, it also provides blast protection against 15kg TNT (or equivalent) detonated in close proximity to the vehicle and under floor protection against two DM51 hand grenades. The protection offered was certified by QinetiQ�, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation.

"Rather than relying on testing the individual armour components, we have ensured that the entire vehicle is independently certified to B6 standards, so that we can be completely confident of its ballistic integrity," added John Graham.

Comprehensive engineering changes have been made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintains optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass of the armour.

The Discovery 4 chassis features independent air suspension, and modifications that include uprated air springs and retuned dampers, larger diameter anti-roll bars, and heavy duty Alcon disc brakes front and rear.

Land Rover engineers have also enhanced the passive Safety Systems in the new Discovery 4 Armoured, with driver's steering wheel and passenger fascia dual-stage airbag restraint systems.

Enhanced performance on all surfaces
Like the standard vehicle, the Discovery 4 Armoured comes equipped with advanced four-wheel-drive technologies to deliver outstanding all-terrain performance.

This includes full functionality of the latest generation Terrain Response System� - an armoured market class-leading feature, which enables the driver to configure the vehicle to negotiate a variety of surfaces, such as tarmac, ruts, grass, mud, snow or rocks, in the fastfivecars effective way.

For enhanced performance, the Discovery 4 Armoured is equipped with the new 375PS
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine, replacing the 2.7-litre V6 turbo-diesel used in the previous model.

Teamed with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission, this refined and powerful new engine offers significantly faster acceleration, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in just 10.6 seconds.

Comfortable and flexible interior
The interior of the Discovery 4 Armoured is both functional and extremely comfortable, providing a commanding elevated driving position and a flexible seating layout for up to five people. The practicality of the vehicle is significantly enhanced by the generous 500kg payload allowance.

Passengers will also appreciate the completely redesigned Discovery 4 cabin, which features a more stylish and sophisticated design with smooth and flowing surface treatments.

The quality of the interior materials has been significantly upgraded compared to the previous model, featuring premium leather upholstery on the seats and sumptuous real wood veneers.

Comprehensive support
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase.

A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met. Customers are able to select from an extensive choice of optional security features to provide the desired vehicle configuration.

Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme. An armour specialist can provide optional services which include scheduled maintenance, support and vehicle familiarisation.

All Discovery 4 Armoured vehicles have a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty.

# # #

EDITOR'S NOTES
1. More details on the Discovery 4 Armoured can be found at http://www.landrover.com/gl/en/lr/professional-vehicles/armoured-vehicles/discovery-4-armoured/

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured - Detailed Specifications

Base Vehicle Specification
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine
Maximum Power (EEC) 375 PS (276 kW)
Maximum Torque (EEC) 510 Nm (376 lb ft)
6-speed automatic transmission
Kerb weight 3550kg (excluding options)
4050kg GVW
Air conditioning
Land Rover Terrain Response� system
Off road capability (deep sand driving not recommended)
Modified suspension system to accommodate increased vehicle mass
378mm brake discs with upgraded Alcon aluminium brake callipers: 6-pot front, 4-pot rear
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System - where licensed

Armour Specification
European Standard BS EN 1522 FB6 and BS EN 1063 BR6 (high velocity assault rifle)
Side blast protection - 15kg device in close proximity to the vehicle
Under floor protection against 2 x DM 51 hand grenades
Heavy duty wheels and run flat tyres - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre

Optional Features

Essential Armour Option Pack
Driver opening window (100mm drop to allow document passing)
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Intercom

Maintenance Option Pack
Heavy duty spare wheel and run flat tyre - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre
Heavy duty jack and tools

Independent Options
Covert blue lights and siren system (where legal)
Covert headlight flash (LED)
Under bonnet fire suppressant system
Heavy duty jack and tools
Tinted windows
Intercom
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Driver's opening front window
Rear payload area glass anti-theft film protection

Specialist Service Option
Global After Sales Support is a tailor made package available on request

Driver Training Package
Armoured Vehicle Driver Training is a tailor made package available on request

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured

Land Rover has revealed the Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle, The model replaces the outgoing Discovery 3 model, offering the same great off-road capability and level of protection, but an updated specification to keep up with the times.

The new Discovery 4 model features a more powerful 5.0-liter LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination produces a total of 375 HP that can get the SUV from 0-60mph in just 10.6 seconds.

The base car underwent endless engineering changes to safeguard best float as well as doing opening, in spite of a combined weight of a shield. Although a SUV weighs 3550 kg (7826 lbs) heavy duty 6-caliper front as well as 4-caliper back Alcon front brakes safeguard a vehicle stops as well as a standard chronicle. The wheels have been wrapped in run flat Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tires, ensuring the quick-getaway even if the tires are punctured.

From the exterior it�s hard to spot the difference, mainly because there is no immediate difference; it all looks pretty much the same. Nonetheless, every bit of protection plating has been blended in with the car�s design and passes all European compliance standards.

The all-wheel drive Discovery 4 Armoured is also fitted with a Terrain Response System which has various settings that adapt to fastfivecars types of surfaces such as mud, grass or rocks.
The Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured comes with a 3-year, 80,000 km factory warranty on both the vehicle and the armour.




Press Release

Land Rover Introduces Powerful New Discovery 4 Armoured Vehicle

Gaydon, Warwickshire, December 17, 2010 - Land Rover is enhancing its range of factory-supported armoured vehicles with the launch of the powerful new Discovery 4 Armoured.

Replacing the successful Discovery 3 model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers the same legendary all-terrain capability and state-of-the-art protection, but features an upgraded specification to deliver superior levels of performance, luxury and style.

Compared to the previous model, the Discovery 4 Armoured offers a more powerful 5.0-litre LR-V8 petrol engine, improved passive safety with an airbag restraint system for driver and front passenger, and a more luxurious interior with premium leather seats.

With discreet armouring and a generous 500kg payload, the new model provides highly versatile, safe and comfortable transportation for five people and their luggage.

Benefiting from Land Rover's extensive experience in the armoured vehicle market, the Discovery 4 Armoured is supplied with a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty on the base vehicle and armour, along with comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians.

"The new Discovery 4 Armoured offers an outstanding breadth of capability, and enables occupants to travel across challenging terrains in confidence and safety," says John Graham, Commercial Manager Armoured Programs, Land Rover.

"Developed by Land Rover in partnership with global leaders in vehicle security, the Discovery 4 is the ideal choice for government agencies, security organisations and businesses whose employees are exposed to high-risk locations."

Fully certified armouring systems
Although virtually indistinguishable from the standard model, the Discovery 4 Armoured features ballistic steel armour and glazing which provides ballistic protection in accordance with European standards BS EN1522 level FB6 and BS EN 1063 level BR6 respectively.

Developed in partnership with the vehicle armouring specialists Centigon, it also provides blast protection against 15kg TNT (or equivalent) detonated in close proximity to the vehicle and under floor protection against two DM51 hand grenades. The protection offered was certified by QinetiQ�, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation.

"Rather than relying on testing the individual armour components, we have ensured that the entire vehicle is independently certified to B6 standards, so that we can be completely confident of its ballistic integrity," added John Graham.

Comprehensive engineering changes have been made to the base vehicle to ensure that it maintains optimum ride and handling on all surfaces, despite the additional mass of the armour.

The Discovery 4 chassis features independent air suspension, and modifications that include uprated air springs and retuned dampers, larger diameter anti-roll bars, and heavy duty Alcon disc brakes front and rear.

Land Rover engineers have also enhanced the passive Safety Systems in the new Discovery 4 Armoured, with driver's steering wheel and passenger fascia dual-stage airbag restraint systems.

Enhanced performance on all surfaces
Like the standard vehicle, the Discovery 4 Armoured comes equipped with advanced four-wheel-drive technologies to deliver outstanding all-terrain performance.

This includes full functionality of the latest generation Terrain Response System� - an armoured market class-leading feature, which enables the driver to configure the vehicle to negotiate a variety of surfaces, such as tarmac, ruts, grass, mud, snow or rocks, in the fastfivecars effective way.

For enhanced performance, the Discovery 4 Armoured is equipped with the new 375PS
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine, replacing the 2.7-litre V6 turbo-diesel used in the previous model.

Teamed with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission, this refined and powerful new engine offers significantly faster acceleration, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in just 10.6 seconds.

Comfortable and flexible interior
The interior of the Discovery 4 Armoured is both functional and extremely comfortable, providing a commanding elevated driving position and a flexible seating layout for up to five people. The practicality of the vehicle is significantly enhanced by the generous 500kg payload allowance.

Passengers will also appreciate the completely redesigned Discovery 4 cabin, which features a more stylish and sophisticated design with smooth and flowing surface treatments.

The quality of the interior materials has been significantly upgraded compared to the previous model, featuring premium leather upholstery on the seats and sumptuous real wood veneers.

Comprehensive support
Land Rover provides armoured vehicle customers with a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase.

A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met. Customers are able to select from an extensive choice of optional security features to provide the desired vehicle configuration.

Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full driver training programme. An armour specialist can provide optional services which include scheduled maintenance, support and vehicle familiarisation.

All Discovery 4 Armoured vehicles have a full three-year, 80,000km factory warranty.

# # #

EDITOR'S NOTES
1. More details on the Discovery 4 Armoured can be found at http://www.landrover.com/gl/en/lr/professional-vehicles/armoured-vehicles/discovery-4-armoured/

Land Rover Discovery 4 Armoured - Detailed Specifications

Base Vehicle Specification
5.0-litre LR-V8 direct-injection petrol engine
Maximum Power (EEC) 375 PS (276 kW)
Maximum Torque (EEC) 510 Nm (376 lb ft)
6-speed automatic transmission
Kerb weight 3550kg (excluding options)
4050kg GVW
Air conditioning
Land Rover Terrain Response� system
Off road capability (deep sand driving not recommended)
Modified suspension system to accommodate increased vehicle mass
378mm brake discs with upgraded Alcon aluminium brake callipers: 6-pot front, 4-pot rear
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System - where licensed

Armour Specification
European Standard BS EN 1522 FB6 and BS EN 1063 BR6 (high velocity assault rifle)
Side blast protection - 15kg device in close proximity to the vehicle
Under floor protection against 2 x DM 51 hand grenades
Heavy duty wheels and run flat tyres - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre

Optional Features

Essential Armour Option Pack
Driver opening window (100mm drop to allow document passing)
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Intercom

Maintenance Option Pack
Heavy duty spare wheel and run flat tyre - Goodyear Wrangler HP All Weather Tyre
Heavy duty jack and tools

Independent Options
Covert blue lights and siren system (where legal)
Covert headlight flash (LED)
Under bonnet fire suppressant system
Heavy duty jack and tools
Tinted windows
Intercom
Auxiliary secondary battery supply
Anti-tamper exhaust
Driver's opening front window
Rear payload area glass anti-theft film protection

Specialist Service Option
Global After Sales Support is a tailor made package available on request

Driver Training Package
Armoured Vehicle Driver Training is a tailor made package available on request

2010 Paris Auto Show: Chevrolet Spark Woody

The British division of Chevrolet has just released a one-off special version of its Spark supermini, an art car that will make its public debut at the upcoming Boardmasters surf, skate and music festival. Creative? Chevrolet! arts competition in Paris.

The Chevrolet Spark Woody was created using a three-quarter vinyl body wrap that creates the wood effect and also features retro style white rims and tires plus a surfboard on its roof.

The Spark Woody is one of a series of Art Sparks created by Chevrolet Europe in the past year. The first, a unique interpretation of the car by German fashion designer Smeilinener, made its debut at the final of the Young? Creative? Chevrolet Art Competition in Berlin last October, while other Art Sparks include a one-off WTCC leading car by Portuguese art student Jose Rocha, a YCC winner, and a Spark DJ Car � the world�s largest record turntable, created by Chevrolet UK this year.





Press Release

• Chevrolet unveils Spark Woody Wagon art car
• One-off created to coincide with Boardmasters festival
• Continues European �Art Spark' theme
• To feature at Paris Motor Show

Surf's up dudes - and here's the proof! Chevrolet, the manufacturer behind the market-leading 5-Year Promise aftercare package, has pulled the wraps off a one-off special version of its top-selling Spark supermini, created to celebrate the brand's American heritage and connection to youth culture.

Spotted driving around Newquay, Cornwall, at the start of the annual Boardmasters surf, skate and music festival, the Spark Woody will go on to star at the grand final of this year's Young? Creative? Chevrolet! arts competition, which takes place in Paris on the eve of the International Motor Show next month.

The car recalls the dawn of the surf movement in the USA, when, in the late Fifties and early Sixties, surfers bought �Woodies'. These were traditionally large estate cars based on mainstream models, but with timber framed bodywork, as they were both cheap and spacious enough to carry their boards and equipment.

Woody Wagons were immortalised in song, chiefly in The Beach Boys' Surfin Safari and Jan and Dean's Surf City, both widely regarded as two of the fastfivecars famous surfing tunes ever.

Yet even when car makers stopped using wooden frames, an expensive and difficult production process, the Woody had become so much a part of American culture that its essence continued, with Chevrolet one of many US manufacturers who used Di-Noc woodgrained vinyl panelling to maintain the woody effect.

The Spark Woody was created in the UK for Chevrolet using a three-quarter vinyl body wrap provided by Pyramid Visuals of Weybridge, whose speciality is normally in vans and shop frontages. Its roof is adorned with an Escape Mini-Mal surfboard, made in Cornwall, as its wood-effect panelling was in keeping with the car's retro styling.

Chevrolet chose Newquay to show off the car for the first time, as the Cornish resort is famous across the world for its surfing culture - the Atlantic Ocean meets the British Isles at one of its narrowest peninsulas, which gives naturally excellent conditions for surfing.

The Spark Woody is one of a series of Art Sparks created by Chevrolet Europe in the past year. The first, a unique interpretation of the car by German fashion designer Smeilinener, made its debut at the final of the Young? Creative? Chevrolet Art Competition in Berlin last October, while other Art Sparks include a one-off WTCC leading car by Portuguese art student Jose Rocha, a YCC winner, and a Spark DJ Car - the world's largest record turntable, created by Chevrolet UK this year.

A further Art Spark, created by 27-year old British artist Ian Cook, will appear later this month at Silverstone Circuit to coincide with the British Touring Car Championship meeting there, while the Spark Woody will make its next public appearance this coming weekend at Snetterton, again tied in to the BTCC.