Work is about to start on expanding the Design Centre at the MG Birmingham site which will double the size of the existing facility and an advanced Engine Test Cell facility has recently come on stream.
July 19 2012
New MG dealership has sporting credentials
One of Britain’s leading classic car specialists has just become a fully-fledged MG dealer – and sold a new MG6 on its opening night!
Brown & Gammons in Baldock, Hertfordshire has specialised in MG cars for 35 years, but until now has never held an MG franchise. Now that’s changed and it has become Britain’s newest MG dealer to join the growing network.
Last night (July 18) almost 100 people attended the official opening and the keys of a new MG6 GT were handed over to a customer who had come in a few days earlier with the intention of buying parts for his classic car!
Chairman Ron Gammons said: “This is a dream come true for us. We were an authorised MG repairer year’s back and have worked on almost every MG model, but we never held the full MG sales franchise.
“We’re so proud to be appointed and can’t wait to start selling the new MG6 models, which I rate has highly as any of the MG classics. We love the MG history but with cars like the MG6 the brand has a great future.”
Brown & Gammons in High Street, Baldock, has a staff of 20 people and Ron Gammons and his son, Malcolm, are well known and respected within the MG fraternity.
Malcolm and Ron are both keen motorsport fan and hold full international racing licences. Between them they have raced at most of the classic circuits including Zolda, Spa, Dijon, Silverstone, Goodwood, Monaco and Portimao in Portugal. Ron also has a private pilot’s licence.
The MG6 GT hasn’t escaped Malcolm’s racing eye either. He said: “I’ve been round the Silverstone track in the car and it handles superbly. The chassis is brilliant. I’ve never come across a car which is so good on the road and the track in standard trim. It’s a cracking car.”
Away from motorsport Malcolm is a keen open water swimmer and mountain bike rider and competes in a triathlon team along with his wife, Steph.
The showrooms in Baldock are just 30 miles north of London and the firm is planning to invest around £60,000 on MOT testing facilities before the end of the year.
MG’s dealer network is expanding. Earlier this year new MG dealerships opened in Stoke-on-Trent, Brighton and Derby another is about to open in Lincoln.
End.
World’s fastest men on track with MG
Some of the fastest men in the world, who want to go even faster, are in
MG6 cars!
MG has supplied a fleet of cars to the Jamaican and USA Track and
Field Training Camps where some of the world’s top athletes, including
sprint stars Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, Asafa Powell and Tyson Gay, are
training.
Both camps are in Birmingham with the Jamaicans based at the
University of Birmingham’s Munrow Sports Centre and the Americans at
the city’s Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr.
Award-winning MG6 GT fastback and MG6 Magnette sports saloons
have been loaned to the camps to help the athletes get around during
their stay. The cars are emblazoned with the Jamaican and USA
national flags.
It’s hoped some of the athletes may get the opportunity to visit MG Motor
UK’s site in Lowhill Lane, Birmingham to see where the MG6 cars are
designed and engineered, and where final assembly also takes place.
Gary Egan, MG’s Senior Operations Manager, said: “We are very proud
to support both the Jamaican and American training camps. The MG6
cars will swallow all their kit bags with ease and the cars will help them
get around Birmingham in comfort and style.”
Birmingham has gone athletics crazy with more than 300 sports fans
volunteering to help out at the track and field camps. Local schools have
been given invitations to watch the athletes train. Both the Americans
and Jamaicans will attend a special service at St Philip’s Cathedral on
July 21 and there will be a civic reception at the Council House on July
22.
The Jamaicans will stage a special training event at the Munrow Sports
Centre which is expected to attract 700 Press and other by-invitation
only VIP guests. They will enjoy a splendid welcome dinner at the
University of Birmingham and will be guests of honour at a Jamaican
50th anniversary concert at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall on July 25.
Ends.
August 1 2012
MG benefits from £4.5 billion investment
MG’s parent company, SAIC Motor, is half way through a £4.5 billion investment in research and development as international sales boom.
The massive investment, spread over five years, will further establish SAIC as the leading automotive R & D company in China – the world’s largest car market.
SAIC’s European Technical Centre and European Design Centre are based at the MG Birmingham site and it is likely that the UK operation will be involved in parts of the programme.
The huge investment started last year and will continue until 2015. So far almost £2.3 billion has been invested, including joint venture projects which SAIC Motor has with both GM and VW.
The news comes as new records have been set for the sale of MG and Roewe (the China-only brand) cars. In June sales of both brands in China rocketed by 44% to 17,301. Sales of MG and Roewe models totalled 90,035 in the first six months of 2012, setting another new record.
Sales of MG3 cars in China have been particularly strong and the car is one of the biggest sellers in its class. Production of the MG3 for Europe will begin next year at the MG Birmingham site.
Much of the engineering and design work on the award-winning MG6, MG3 and other MG and Roewe models is carried out at the MG Birmingham site. Two years ago SAIC won a major award for its investment in Birmingham.
SAIC Motor has risen from 461st place in the prestigious Fortune 500 World ranking to now stand at the 130 spot.
MG Motor UK is SAIC’s first car operation in Europe and the MG brand is now being introduced to new markets across the world, including Egypt and Uruguay.
Ends.
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING AND THE BTCC IS BACK
Media Information: 9th August 2012
The MG KX Momentum Racing team is back on track this weekend as the 2012 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) resumes racing after a six week summer break. The Snetterton circuit in Norfolk will play host to rounds 16, 17 and 18 of the series, as the championship battle re-commences.
It was a weekend of highs and lows for Jason Plato last time out at Croft, as technical gremlins within the MG6 continued to blight the Triple Eight team’s progress. Failure to see Jason take the start of Race One was disappointing for the MG KX Momentum Racing Team, however the squad was sent into the summer break happy as the double BTCC champion fought back to win Race Three in spectacular style.
Andy Neate recorded his strongest BTCC weekend to-date with the MG6 at Croft, when he brought the car home for points paying finishes in all three races. It could have been even better for the young Englishman though, as he had impressively led Round Fifteen for the majority of the race.
Having had a chance to catch their breath following the team’s late start to the season’s preparations, the second half of the BTCC season gives the MG KX Momentum Racing squad a chance to build on the team’s positive first six months of existence. The team will now look to push the established squads for glory, in what is still their maiden campaign. The charge towards the finish starts at Snetterton this weekend!
Jason Plato (#99), BTCC Standings 3rd – 192 points:
“Our summer break has been long, the batteries are well and truly re-charged, the team are well prepared; I feel strong and very motivated. Our season starts at Snetterton! I am confident that our recent developments with the MG6 GT will not only improve our speed, but also our race performance. I feel some race wins coming this weekend.”
Andy Neate (#44), BTCC Standings: 17th – 46 points:
“The Croft race-weekend seems a long while ago now, my memory of it is very positive though with a triple points finish and having the pace to lead Race Three from the front for so long. I’m taking those positives into the second half of the season and am determined to get the results that the car, and I, are capable of.“
Ian Harrison, Team Principal, BTCC Standings: Teams - 4th – 235 points, Manufacturers – 2nd - 360 points:
“The summer break has been a good chance for the team to re-group before heading into battle for the second half of the season.It hasn’t been time off and holidays for us at Triple Eight though, we’ve been working hard to get on top of the new MG6 and do a little bit of testing. This should hopefully see us unlock some more potential in the car and challenge at the front – which is the only place we want to be.”
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING REIGNING THEM IN, IN THE SUN
Media Information: 12th August 2012
The sun shone down on Snetterton and the MG KX Momentum Racing Team for rounds 16, 17 and 18 of the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship, as the second half of the BTCC season got underway in Norfolk. Jason Plato started the second half of the campaign as he means to go on, as he cut the lead in the Driver’s championship down from 29 to 18 points.
Having missed out on Pole Position by a mere .015 of a second on Saturday, Jason Plato lined up on the front-row of the grid for Race One of the day alongside the Toyota of Frank Wrathall. Jason made a fantastic get-away to lead comfortably into the first corner. Jason then monitored his pace and after a brief battle with the Vauxhall of Newsham, cruised home for his third win of the 2012 season. Andy spent his race trying to recover some places after his poor qualifying position from yesterday, but after becoming involved in some of the midfield battles, he failed to make the gains he was looking for.
Jason started Race Two from Pole Position, thanks to his Race One victory. However his MG6 was now laden with the maximum 45kgs of success ballast; the only downside to collecting the winner’s trophy from Race One! Despite the extra weight, he drove cleanly away from the line to lead the early part of the race comfortably. As the race continued three Hondas closed him down and on the penultimate lap there was contact between Jason and his old foe Matt Neal. At the next corner with the positions reversed there was more contact between the two, which resulted in both cars running wide onto the grass, allowing the following Honda’s of Jordan and Shedden through into the top two positions, where they would finish. Jason recovered from the grass to finish third and collect his second podium of the day.
The reverse grid for Race Three saw the top nine switched, this meant Jason started from seventh position. He drove a measured race to come through the field and finish 4th on the road, which then became third for a hat trick of podiums for the day, after Shedden’s Honda was excluded on a technical issue. With Matt Neal being tagged by the Toyota of Wrathall on the opening lap, it was job well done at Snetterton for Jason and the MG KX Momentum Racing team as the gap to the top of the championship closed.
Jason Plato, MG KX Momentum Racing #99. BTCC Standings: 3rd – 245 points:
“A pretty good day for us, I’m slightly frustrated as I feel Race Two should have been my second win of the day, but me racing against Matt often ends in tears, where perhaps it doesn’t with me and some other BTCC drivers. But looking at the bigger picture we’ve closed the gap in the championship to both Honda’s, so overall it’s been a great weekend!”
Andy Neate, MG KX Momentum Racing #44. BTCC Standings: 17th – 51 points:
“Today was a tough day for me; I didn’t ever quite get the car where I wanted it. After yesterday’s quali we were always facing an uphill battle today and so it proved. Knockhill is only two weeks away though so I will go there looking for a stronger weekend.”
Ian Harrison, Team Principal. BTCC Standings: Teams: 4th – 292 points, Manufacturers: 2nd – 458 points:
“It’s been a solid weekend, not spectacular. Three podiums for Jason; you can’t really complain about that. It could have been even better with another win, but not too bad. On Andy’s car; he struggled a bit this weekend. The progress he did make was nullified when he got in a few scrapes. But we go to Knockhill now with plenty to play for.”
I think they forgot to take Sheddens disqualification into account, Shedden is now only 2 ahead of Plato and Neal is 10 ahead according to btcc.net.richardk wrote:as he cut the lead in the Driver’s championship down from 29 to 18 points.
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING - KNOCKHILL PREVIEW
Media Information: 22nd August 2012
The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) heads north of the border this weekend for the series’ annual trip to Knockhill. It will be the first chance for Scottish racing fans to see the new MG KX Momentum Racing team in action around the tight and twisty Fife circuit.
Jason Plato enjoyed a strong weekend at Snetterton last time out, delivering on his pre-summer break promise; to come out fighting with the aim of closing the gap to the Honda’s at the top of the Drivers’ Championship. Standing on the podium after all three races at Snetterton, including a brilliant win in Race One, ensured a strong points haul and with Honda Racing suffering a difficult weekend, Jason closed the gap at the top of the series down from 29 points, to just 10.
A poor qualifying session, where set-up issues hampered his progress, meant that Andy Neate faced an uphill battle come race day at Snetterton. He battled away, but being at the wrong end of the grid saw him involved in too many scrapes and incidents with other cars. He did however score points in all three races to add to his championship total.
The MG KX Momentum Racing team are hoping that the tight and twisty nature of the 1.3-mile Knockhill circuit, will suit the MG 6GT well. The undulating nature of the circuit most closely resembles the Brands Hatch Indy Circuit or Oulton Park; tracks at which Jason Plato has already gone well this season. Having secured a race win at Brands and pole position at Oulton, the omens look good for another strong weekend.
Jason Plato (#99), BTCC Standings 3rd – 245 points:
“Off the back of a strong weekend at Snetterton, we must go to Knockhill full of confidence. We are starting to build up the momentum needed to mount a championship challenge. The tight and twisty Scottish circuit has given me many strong memories over the years, some good, some not so. It’s a circuit I really enjoy and one which I think will really suit our MG 6GT. We are certainly going north of the border looking to add to the win tally.”
Andy Neate (#44), BTCC Standings: 17th – 52 points:
“Snetterton was a tough weekend for me, I didn’t get on-top of my car set-up in Free Practice and that put me on the back foot for the rest of the weekend. I want to ensure I hit the ground running at the start of the weekend at Knockhill. I’m hope that a change in country brings a change in fortune for me!“
Ian Harrison, Team Principal, BTCC Standings: Teams - 4th – 292 points, Manufacturers – 2nd - 458 points:
“Snetterton was a strong weekend for us and a good points haul has really given Jason a chance to put some pressure on the Honda’s in front. We need to continue to push hard and hope that they can take points off of each other. There is still a long way to go, but we’re in contention, which in our first season is a huge testament to work done back at Triple Eight.”
August 23 2012
New MG dealership opens for business
MG’s newest dealership is opening a fresh chapter in the 100 year history of a family run business.
Charles Warner in Lincoln can trace its automotive roots back almost 100 years and is one of the best-known automotive businesses in the region.
It’s the fifth new MG dealership to open this year and has already sold two of the award-winning MG6 GT models to two brothers, John and Ronald Markham, who both traded in MG ZS+ cars.
The Charles Warner showroom on the Outer Circle Road is one of the biggest in Lincolnshire and also houses a Vauxhall and Chevrolet outlet. The firm has built up a strong reputation for customer service and the staff have been fully trained to take on the MG franchise.
Mike Seward, Charles Warner’s Managing Director, said: “It’s great to see MG back and we have been awarded a franchise at a really exciting time for the brand.
“MG has always created passion. The new MG6 models bring a refreshing new design to the market and it certainly stands out from the crowd. I know a lot of our customers will love it once they get behind the wheel.”
The MG6 was awarded the What Car? 2012 Security Award and two racing MG6 GT models are competing in the 2012 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship with double champion Jason Plato and rising race star Andy Neate behind the wheels.
Nigel Burley, Charles Warner’s MG Sales Manager, said the sporting pedigree of MG was evident in the new MG6 models. “It’s a very response car to drive with exceptionally good driving dynamics and it certainly lives up to the MG brand heritage.
“The high levels of standard specification on the cars also set the MG6 apart. I think it’s a very competitive package on price and we’re all looking forward to making MG a real success in Lincoln.”
Earlier this year MG opened new dealerships with Pinkstones in Stoke-on-Trent, Rivervale in Brighton, Beechwood in Derby and Brown & Gammons in Baldock, Herts. The dealer network will expand further this year with other new outlets opening in the coming months.
Ends.
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING – RACE REPORT
Media Information: 26th August 2012
The MG KX Momentum Racing team suffered a difficult day at Knockhill, as Jason Plato’s Championship charge took a knock in rounds 19, 20 & 21 of the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).
Jason Plato formed up on Pole Position for Race One, courtesy of his brilliant wet qualifying lap yesterday. The British double champion had one eye to his left though, as alongside him sat the fast starting, rear-wheel drive BMW of Rob Collard and predictably the BMW powered away from the line to lead comfortably by Turn One. Jason slotted in behind and was pursued by the aggressive looking Ford of Aaron Smith. The Ford had far superior straight-line speed and was pushing Jason along, on just the second lap of the race contact from behind sent his MG6 spinning out of control and into the gravel for a DNF and zero points. Andy Neate fared little better, with contact also ending his race on Lap 2.
Race Two of the day saw the two Triple Eight prepared MG 6GT cars start from the back of the field, following their double retirement from Race One. Both Jason and Andy made progress through the pack, but neither driver was entirely happy with the set-up of their car and technical gremlins hampered their progress, ensuring that both failed to make the top 10, in order to take advantage of the reverse grid for Race Three.
Things went from bad to worse for MG KX Momentum Racing in the day’s final race. The technical troubles that had blighted Jason’s second race returned, meaning he sadly did not even take the start. Andy Neate decided to take a gamble on the weather, as the cars formed up on the grid light rain was falling. The decision was made to start on wet tyres, in order to capitalise should the weather worsen, however much like the rest of the team’s day, the cards didn’t fall in the right direction and the rain stopped, forcing Andy to pit and switch to Dunlop’s dry weather tyre. He did however recover to score a sole point for 15th position.
Jason Plato (#99), BTCC Standings 3rd – 251 points:
“I was optimistic for today following our Pole yesterday, but being removed from Race One by the Ford set the tone for the day and I guess it’s never a great day when your best result is an 11th! The technical issue restricted my progress in Race Two and stopped it all together in Race Three. Rockingham has to go better.”
Andy Neate (#44), BTCC Standings: 17th – 57 points:
“A tough day at the office for me and all of the team today. It didn’t start well and went downhill from there. I thought it was worth taking a punt on the strategy in Race Three, having retired from Race One and struggling with the technical issue in two, but not even the weather would help me today!”
Ian Harrison, Team Principal, BTCC Standings: Teams - 5th – 305 points, Manufacturers – 2nd - 503 points:
“We have had a nightmare day to be honest. After a good qualifying yesterday, it’s gone wrong ever since we got out of bed this morning. The contact from Smith in Race One has ruined Jason’s day and it’s put us in a compromised position in the championship now. Andy’s day’s not been much better; he was unlucky with a wrong tyre call at the end there. Let’s forget about this weekend now and move on to Rockingham.”
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING REIGNING THEM IN
August 30 2012
MG launches Approved Used Car Programme
MG Motor UK is launching its first Approved Used Car Programme with a comprehensive range of benefits for customers, including a 130 point check on every car.
Used examples of the award-winning MG6 GT and MG6 Magnettes will be covered by the scheme with prices starting from £9,995.00. The programme covers all trim levels and will offer customers the opportunity to join the modern MG family with a fully checked used car.
Customers will also benefit from a complimentary seven-day drive away insurance and every car sold under the MG Approved Used Car Programme will have an HPI check and a certificate to verify the car’s mileage. Every car will have a full main dealer service history and a stamped service book will be handed to the customer on delivery of the car.
Richard Bourton, MG’s Business & Used Car Sales Manager, said: “Initially most of the cars in the programme will be less than a year old and with a reasonable mileage. They will be great buys for people wanting to get into an MG6 and the cars will still have the balance of the original warranty, AA European Breakdown Assistance and the higher spec models will have lifelong subscription to Traffic Master.”
The MG6 GT was launched in May 2011 and the four-door Magnette sports saloon was launched in July 2011. Both cars were designed and engineered at the MG Birmingham site where final assembly also takes place.
Ends.
September 17 2012
MG launches the best British deal on new cars
MG has launched what is probably Britain’s most generous trade-in deal on new cars.
Customers will get a £3,000 allowance against all models in the award-winning MG6 range by trading in their old car – and almost any old banger will qualify for the huge money off deal!
It means that owners of old and inefficient cars that urgently need replacing can drive away a brand new MG from as little as £12,455 after the trade-in discount. Any make of car, as long as it has an MOT valid for at least 14 days, can be traded in.
Free fuel for 15,000 miles is being offered on MG6 models under a separate deal. Under this scheme customers will be given a Fuel Genie card, with a value of £2,400, which can be used at Tesco and Morrisons supermarket fuel stations.
Clint Cordle, MG Motor UK’s Marketing Manager, said: “These are both exceptionally good deals on MG6 GT fastback and MG6 Magnette sports saloons which already offer great value for money with high levels of standard equipment.”
The 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol MG6 range is designed and engineered at MG Birmingham where final assembly also takes place.
Ends.
SAIC ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION OF UK DESIGN STUDIO AND APPOINTMENT OF NEW DESIGN DIRECTOR by richardk Mon Sep 17, 2012 11:10 am
14 September 2012
SAIC ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION OF UK DESIGN STUDIO AND APPOINTMENT OF NEW DESIGN DIRECTOR
• Expansion of SAIC Motor’s European Design Centre has commenced in Birmingham
• Total investment of £1.5m enables current facility to double in size by mid-2013
• New UK Design Director, Martin Uhlarik, will oversee European-focused design for SAIC’s international brand, MG
SAIC Motor UK has today announced plans to expand significantly its European Design Centre, based at the company’s Longbridge headquarters, the SAIC Motor UK Technical Centre (SMTC UK). At the same time, SAIC has confirmed the appointment of a new UK Design Director, Martin Uhlarik.
Following a total investment of £1.5m in the facility by SAIC Motor, the European Design Centre is to double in size to more than 2000m2. The investment also allows new software and equipment to be installed in the studio, including a state-of-the-art visualisation suite, increased modelling facilities and a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) five-axis milling machine. When the expansion is complete, the design department will be able to work on up to five full-size models at the same time.
The expansion of the European Design Centre comes at the same time as significant development of SAIC’s Shanghai studio as part of a global design development strategy for the company’s expanding model range.
Canadian-born Uhlarik has been appointed by Tony Williams-Kenny, who takes over as Global Design Director at SAIC’s Shanghai design base. Uhlarik graduated from the Ontario College of Art in Toronto, Canada, and the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California in 1994, before working as Senior Interior Designer for Skoda Auto in Prague and Project Design Leader for Nissan Design Europe in London. Uhlarik’s design credits include the interiors of all first-generation Skoda products to the 2003 Nissan Evalia concept, as well as the 2007 Nissan NV200 concept and 2010 upgrade of the Nissan Qashqai.
Uhlarik will oversee a growing team of designers based in the UK, focusing primarily on MG vehicles, which now sell in 35 markets worldwide, as well as providing input to SAIC Group’s China-only brand, Roewe. In addition to the Longbridge-based studio, SAIC Motor oversees the company’s design output from its Shanghai centre. The UK-based facility is responsible for the design of the MG3, MG6 and MG5, spearheading the company’s European design strategy and providing input on all global projects. The Icon SUV concept, unveiled earlier this year at the Beijing International Automobile Exhibition, was worked on jointly between the two studios.
David Lindley, Managing Director of SAIC Motor UK, said: “Expanding our design studio will enable us to work on greater numbers of projects at the same time and improve our design capabilities across SAIC Group models destined for European and Chinese markets.
“With many years of automotive design experience behind him, and a wealth of fresh design ideas, Martin Uhlarik is the right man to lead the expansion of our studio and renewed focus on great design with international appeal.”
Martin Uhlarik commented: “MG is enjoying a rebirth in the UK and globally, and it’s not every day that a designer gets a chance to be a part of that. SAIC and MG have ambitious plans with the European Design Centre, and future model launches mean the design team has an exciting time ahead of it. The expanded studio will give us the space and equipment we need to fine-tune a modern, sporty and progressive design language for MG models and attract a truly world-class design team.”
To find out more about SAIC Motor UK Technical Centre Limited and the full range of SMTC UK’s activities, visit www.saicmotor.co.uk.
- ENDS -
David Lindley, Managing Director of SAIC Motor UK
I think it has got a little confused in order not to confuse the presspatpending wrote:David Lindley, Managing Director of SAIC Motor UK
Am I right that "SAIC Motor" = MG + Roewe? David is Deputy MG (to William) of MG Motor UK - how does SAIC Motor UK relate to MG Motor? The SAIC Motor UK website is about the technical centre.
http://www.saicmotor.co.uk/
SAIC Motor UK Technical Centre Limited (SMTC UK) was established in 2005 to enable SAIC Group to benefit from the wealth of highly skilled automotive engineering and design talent present in the UK, especially in the Midlands.
"No results found for "saic motor uk limited". (google)
September 18 2012
Isabel’s on a mission at MG
Isabel Fletcher has joined MG as an apprentice, but she is also a woman on a mission.
The 16-year-old former Wolverhampton schoolgirl is determined to become an ambassador for women as she carves out a career at MG Motor UK, the Birmingham-based car maker.
She said: “I’m determined to do well and I’m absolutely delighted to have been selected as the first female apprentice at MG for many years. I’m going to be an ambassador for women and aim to prove that women can do well in the automotive business.”
Isabel gained 12 GCSEs at St Peter’s Collegiate School, including an A* in Engineering and an A in Business Studies. She won four distinctions in her BTEC Engineering qualification and speaks Spanish.
She will study for an NVQ in Sales & Marketing on a day release course at Bournville College as part of her apprenticeship at MG. She is starting her training at MG with a three month spell in Business Services before moving on to work in all aspects of the business.
Away from work, Isabel is a keen swimmer, is involved with voluntary work at All Saints’ Church, Wolverhampton and is a .22 rifle markswoman with ambitions to join the West Midlands shooting squad.
Ends.
richardk wrote:Press Release:
It is no use launching a fantastic deal, if hardly anyone knows about it. Advertise it, and sales may start to rise. Well they cannot get any worse than last month, can they! September 17 2012
MG launches the best British deal on new cars
MG has launched what is probably Britain’s most generous trade-in deal on new cars.
Customers will get a £3,000 allowance against all models in the award-winning MG6 range by trading in their old car – and almost any old banger will qualify for the huge money off deal!
It means that owners of old and inefficient cars that urgently need replacing can drive away a brand new MG from as little as £12,455 after the trade-in discount. Any make of car, as long as it has an MOT valid for at least 14 days, can be traded in.
Free fuel for 15,000 miles is being offered on MG6 models under a separate deal. Under this scheme customers will be given a Fuel Genie card, with a value of £2,400, which can be used at Tesco and Morrisons supermarket fuel stations.
Clint Cordle, MG Motor UK’s Marketing Manager, said: “These are both exceptionally good deals on MG6 GT fastback and MG6 Magnette sports saloons which already offer great value for money with high levels of standard equipment.”
The 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol MG6 range is designed and engineered at MG Birmingham where final assembly also takes place.
Ends.
Plato sets early pace
Jason Plato was fastest in first practice at Rockingham while the injured Matt Neal was third.
Plato turns the screw
Jason Plato turned the screw by going even faster in Rockingham’s second practice session.
Plato on pole at Rockingham
Jason Plato has taken his fifth pole position of the season in qualifying at Rockingham.
Plato, out on his own in the two earlier practice sessions, set the fastest time of the day so far with a lap in 1m22.448s in his MG KX Momentum Racing MG6. That’s a new BTCC qualifying lap record around Rockingham.
Windy wrote:No official press release for Rockingham?
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING - THE BREAD OF A WINNING SANDWICH by richardk Mon Oct 08, 2012 12:25 pm
8TH OCT 2012
MG KX MOMENTUM RACING - THE BREAD OF A WINNING SANDWICH
Jason Plato took two fantastic wins for MG KX Momentum Racing at today's penultimate race weekend of the 2012 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) at Silverstone in Northamptonshire; 'The Home of British Motor Racing'.
The sun had broken through the morning's fog at Silverstone as the BTCC field formed up on the grid for race one of the day. The #99 MG KX Momentum Racing car of Jason Plato was at the front of the grid, having secured his 5th pole position of the season in qualifying yesterday. Jason made a good start and lead into turn one, whilst the chaos behind him caused the Safety Car to be disturbed from its pit-lane slumber. At the restart the Ford of Mat Jackson passed Jason for the lead. JP gave chase and when a mechanical failure slowed Jackson with three laps to go, Jason sped through to win his fifth race of the season. Andy had an eventful race from twelfth on the grid, he was moving forwards, before a collision dropped him to the back, from which he recovered back to twelfth!
Race two got off to a great start, with Jason once again leading from the front, all was going well, even after another brief safety car interlude when Matt Neal's Honda caught fire, from which the reigning champion fortunately escaped unscathed. Disaster then struck the #99 MG 6GT when a standardised TOCA component failed, causing Jason's car to lose all power and retire from the race. Andy was again making progress from P12 on the grid when contact with one of the Audi's gave him a puncture and effectively ended his race.
Race three of the day saw both MG's start from the back of the grid following their race two misfortune. Jason however drove like a man possessed and carved his way through the field like a hot knife through butter and incredibly lead the race at half distance. From the front JP was able to cruise to his 6th win of the season, setting the fastest lap of the race on his way for an additional bonus point, to cut Shedden's championship lead to just fifteen points as the series heads for a dramatic final day showdown in two weeks' time at Brands Hatch
JASON PLATO (#99), BTCC STANDINGS 2ND - 349 POINTS:
"Two wins, so easily could have been three. But another great step forwards today, the car was just mega, especially in race three. My tail is in the air going into Brands Hatch, I'm confident we will have the best car and a just 15 point gap to the top is very do-able. Game on."
ANDY NEATE (#44), BTCC STANDINGS: 16TH - 72 POINTS:
"A disappointing day for me today, considering that we had good pace in the car, just one points finish is not a great return. However starting in the mid-field for each race as I did today increases your likelihood of getting involved in accidents and it showed today. Onwards and upwards towards the final at Brands now I guess."
IAN HARRISON, TEAM PRINCIPAL, BTCC STANDINGS: TEAMS - 5TH - 412 POINTS, MANUFACTURERS - 2ND 651 - POINTS:
"Three great races from Jason today, the DNF in race two has hurt us though, but a good job by Jason as always. Andy's had an unfortunate day getting tangled up with various people, which is a shame, as his overall pace this weekend was stronger than his results show."
Drive away in nearly new MG6 for £500 from the factory by richardk Thu Oct 11, 2012 1:56 pm
October 12 2012
Drive away in nearly new MG6 for £500 from the factory
It’s the first anniversary of the opening of the MG Factory Sales Centre this weekend and to celebrate, everyone visiting will be given a special present – the chance to drive away in a nearly-new MG6 for less than £500.
The Factory Sales Centre is able to offer this amazing deal on a limited number of nearly new ex-MG press and demonstrator approved used vehicles.
It means customers can put just £495 down as a deposit on a fully inspected used MG6 with a sticker price of £9,995. Monthly payments of £198.84 spread over 59 months and a final monthly payment of £199.84 means that there is no final balloon payment.
The anniversary event starts today (Friday) at the Factory Sales Centre at the MG Birmingham site on Lowhill Lane in Longbridge and runs throughout the weekend. The new £500 down offer will take pride of place alongside the party cakes, balloons, prizes and other fun.
Under the MG Approved Used Car Programme every used example of the award-winning MG6 GT and MG6 Magnette undergoes a comprehensive 130 point check and where required a full service carried out by the factory. Customers will also benefit from a complimentary seven-day drive away insurance.
Richard Bourton, MG’s Business & Used Car Sales Manager, said: “The £500 deposit deal will make it easier for many people to get into an MG6. It’s a great opportunity for people who can’t make a larger deposit on a new car to get behind the wheel of one of the best value-for-money cars on the market.
“Most of the cars are less than a year old. They have the balance of the original warranty, AA European Breakdown Assistance and the higher spec models will have lifelong subscription to Traffic Master.”
The MG6 GT was launched in May 2011 and the four-door Magnette sports saloon was launched in July 2011. Both cars were designed and engineered at the MG Birmingham site where final assembly also takes place.
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20th Oct 2012
MG launches MG6 BTCC Special Edition
MG is launching an MG6 BTCC Special Edition to celebrate its hugely successful return to saloon car racing.
The MG6 GT BTCC Special Edition will be unveiled at the final round of the 2012 MSA Dunlop British Touring Car Championship at Brands Hatch this weekend where MG's Jason Plato is fighting for the championship.
Plato, in his MG KX Momentum Racing team MG6 GT, is currently second in the rankings and just 15 points behind leader Gordon Shedden as the fight for the title goes down to the line.
It's been an amazing season for Plato and the MG team in what was supposed to be just a "learning year" in MG's return to top level racing. This weekend's final three races will see Plato in a four-way fight for the title between Shedden and his team-mate Matt Neal and Andrew Jordon, who are all in Hondas.
Plato, who has won the BTCC championship twice before, clinched his titles at the fast and demanding Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit.
Against this dramatic backdrop MG will unveil the new road-going MG6 BTCC Special Edition with its striking livery and distinctive Racing matt black roof and Racing matt black 18-inch alloy wheels.
The new car is based on the award-winning MG6 GT and will really stand out from the crowd. Every BTCC Special Edition will also have Racing black gloss sills, door mirror covers, lower front air dam and rear spoiler.
The front grille proudly sports a BTCC badge and a distinctive multi-coloured MG KX Momentum Racing team decal is on the bonnet extension panel above the front grille, on the fastback boot lid and on the front doors and wings just behind the chrome wing vent.
BTCC Edition graphics are highlighted on the sills and also inside the car on the passenger facia.
Power from the BTCC Special Edition is from the 1.8-litre turbo petrol model of the standard car and delivers 160 PSI to give a 0 to 62mph of 8.4 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 120mph. Yet the car has a Group 14E insurance rating.
The BTCC Special Edition has a very high level of standard equipment including sports driver and front passenger seats, Dunlop Sport 225/45R 18 performance tyres, iTPMS tyre monitoring system, integrated full colour satellite navigation (including a lifetime subscription to Trafficmaster), air conditioning, rear parking sensors, front fog lights, cruise control, an electronic hill hold function, power folding electrically heated exterior mirrors, CD audio with USB and auxiliary inputs for MP3/Ipod connectivity and a leather covered multifunction steering wheel.
Despite its sporting credentials, the BTCC Special Edition is surprisingly practical for everyday use with a huge class leading boot and rear folding seats to give a massive 400 litre cargo capacity.
The cars are covered by a full AA European roadside assistance package for three years, has a three year/60,000 mile manufacturers warranty and the UK dealer network has direct support from the MG Birmingham factory.
Jason Plato said: "It should be quite a weekend. I'm going to give it everything I've got. Ian Harrison and all the team at Triple 888 have done a great job with the race car and the timing for the launch of MG's new BTCC Special Edition is brilliant.
"I'm planning to be on hand to whip the covers off and show the new car to the world as long as my busy weekend programme permits. Anyway, it's going to be a great weekend for all of us."
Guy Jones, MG Motor UK's Sales & Marketing Director, said: "Coming back to BTCC racing was a huge gamble for us. But with Jason's fantastic driving skills, the huge enthusiasm of the whole MG KX Momentum Racing team and the backing of key sponsors such as Tesco Fuels and Castrol, we've had a sensational season.
"Our success on the track cried out for a special road-going MG6 car for MG fans to celebrate our return to one of the most popular race series in the world."
22ND NOV 2012
MG6 DIESEL REVEALED
We are delighted to today announce that as part of the international launch plan, the MG6 diesel was formally unveiled at the Guangzhou Motor show in China yesterday by Mr Chen Hong, President of SAIC Motor and Mr Chen Zhixin, Executive Vice President.
Over the past two weeks, industry journalists and other key decision makers have been visiting us here at MG Birmingham to test the car and the first reviews of the MG6 GT diesel have been published over the last 24 hours (you can find links to all the latest reviews at facebook.com/mgmotor).
The DTi-Tech diesel is a brand new engine, designed and engineered specifically for MG6 and specified for European markets.. Built at a state of the art production facility – the DTi-Tech engine is paired with an all new 6 speed transmission called the SCM360. These units are the result of extensive investment from our parent company, SAIC Motor, into the European MG business.
The DTi-Tech and SCM 360 make their debuts in the UK MG6 GT and MG6 Magnette models and will facilitate the next phase of growth for the new MG range both here in the UK and in Europe.
The 1.9litre DTi-Tech engine produces 150PS with 350 NM of torque – you won’t find more pulling power per pound anywhere in the market! With Co2 emissions at 139g, the MG6 DTi-Tech provides a combined MPG of 53.4MPG with intelligent Stop-Start technology you will enjoy all the drive and handling enjoyment that you expect from an MG with superb in gear acceleration.
The MG6 diesel has class leading insurance groups of just 14E for the MG6 GT S and SE and 15E for the GT TSE and the MG6 Magnette combined with VED at only £120 per annum.
The DTi-Tech MG6 GT will begin from £16,995 for the S Specification with the top of the range TSE only £20,195 OTR.
The DTi-Tech MG6 Magnette – the luxury sports saloon with standard features to rival most competitor options lists – can be yours for only £21,195.
Demonstrator vehicles will arrive in UK showrooms in December and the order book will open at that point.
Click here to express your interest in the MG6 DTi-Tech.
That is some good newsrichardk wrote:From MG UK
22ND NOV 2012
MG6 DIESEL REVEALED
December 5 2012
Santa’s left presents waiting for you at MG
Santa’s traded in his sleigh for a sparkling red MG6 GT and he’s left some special presents for an MG used car spectacular this weekend.
He dropped into the MG Sales Centre in Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham to collect his used MG. Santa said: “So many boys and girls have been good this year that Rudolph and his chums just couldn’t have coped. The MG will let me get around so much quicker and its huge boot can carry more presents.”
This weekend the MG Sales Centre will hold a special pre-Christmas Approved Used car sale, and for everyone who buys a car Santa’s left a present.
Approved used MG6 GT and MG6 Magnette models are on sale this Friday, Saturday and Sunday from £9,995 and with just a £500 deposit, monthly repayments are £199.
Buyers will also benefit from Santa’s special present for this weekend only. They can choose from either three years free servicing on their car or a bumper Marks & Spencer Christmas hamper.
More than 40 specially selected Approved Used MG6 models will be on view. Every one will benefit from a 130 point check; HPI assured history and will carry the balance of MG’s three-year warranty cover and AA European Breakdown Assistance. Higher spec models will have lifelong subscription to Traffic Master. Most are less than a year old and have covered less than16,000 miles.
Richard Bourton, MG’s Business & Used Car Sales Manager, said: “Santa has certainly bagged a bargain but he’s left some great presents for us to give away this weekend. The hampers are superb and the three year servicing deal offers a real saving.
“Santa went for the servicing deal so he will be dropping in to see us for the next few years. But he has left me a problem – I need to find out how much a well worn sleigh, which has been round the world a few times, is worth!”
The MG6 GT was launched in May 2011 and the four-door Magnette sports saloon was launched in July 2011. Both cars were designed and engineered at the MG Birmingham site where final assembly also takes place. The MG6 was awarded the What Car? 2012 Security Award.
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December 7 2012
Colley Motors becomes latest MG dealer
A company with exceptionally strong local community links has become the newest MG dealer in Britain.
Colley Motors in Cwmbran, South Wales is the sixth new MG dealership to open this year as the franchise network continues to grow. Further appointments will be announced shortly.
The Colley Motor Group was founded 43 years ago by brothers John and Bob Colley. The showrooms, where 18 people work, are on a two acre site on the main road leading into Cwmbran.
Cwmbran has an unusually high number of sports clubs and associations for a town of its size and John Colley has been President of Cwmbran Football Club for the past 35 years. He also owns the Cwmbran Sports and Social Club and the dealership actively sponsors several football, rugby and cricket clubs.
John Colley said: “We are proud to have been awarded an MG dealership. The brand is truly iconic and we have been very impressed with the new MG6 models which we are really looking forward to selling.
“We are a family business and the MG brand fits in well with our business. It’s a brand that has both a strong heritage and a really exciting future.”
Robert Jones, Colley Motors General Manager, said: “To be in at the start of the new MG business is really exciting. We have a really dedicated workforce here and everyone is fully behind making the MG franchised a big success.
“The MG6 is the first of a new breed of MGs and it is an impressive car. I think a lot of our customers will be attracted by the value for money that it offers – you certainly get a lot of car for your money.”
Colley Motors has already started selling the award-winning MG6 models. An official opening event will be held on January 10.
Earlier this year the following new MG dealerships opened: Beechwood in Derby, Pinkstone Cars in Stoke-on-Trent, Rivervale in Brighton, Charles Warner in Lincoln and Brown & Gammons in Baldock, Herts.
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Now if they sell as many MGs as Hyundais....richardk wrote:
Colley Motors becomes latest MG dealer
....
December 11 2012
MG celebrates BTCC success with Special Edition
MG is launching a special MG6 BTCC Edition to celebrate its hugely successful return to Britain’s favourite saloon car racing series.
The MG6 GT BTCC Edition was previewed at the final round of the 2012 MSA Dunlop British Touring Car Championship at Brands Hatch where MG’s Jason Plato clinched an amazing third place in the championship after taking the chequered flag six times in the season.
The road-going MG6 BTCC Edition is on sale with a distinctive list of standard features including matt black roof and 18-inch alloy wheels with black gloss sills, door mirror covers, lower front air dam, rear bumper and rear spoiler and the choice of Arctic White or Union Blue paint finishes for just £16,995.
The front grille proudly sports a BTCC badge and there are distinctive MG KX Momentum Racing team colours decals on the bonnet extension, front doors and wings behind the new chrome wing vent. BTCC Edition graphics are highlighted on the sills and also inside the car on the passenger facia.
Power from the BTCC Edition is from the 1.8-litre turbo petrol engine delivering 160 PS and 0 to 62mph in 8.4 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 120mph. Yet the car has a Group 14E insurance rating.
Standard equipment includes built-in full colour European satellite navigation (including a lifetime subscription to Trafficmaster), sports driver and front passenger seats, Dunlop Sport 225/45R 18-inch performance tyres, electronic hill hold function, power folding electrically heated exterior mirrors, iTPMS tyre monitoring system, rear parking sensors, front fog lights, cruise control, CD audio with USB and auxiliary inputs for MP3/Ipod connectivity and a leather covered multifunction steering wheel.
Despite its sporting credentials, the BTCC Special Edition is surprisingly practical for everyday use with a huge class-leading boot and rear folding seats to give a massive 1,379 litre cargo capacity.
The cars are covered by a full AA European roadside assistance package for three years, have a three year/60,000 mile manufacturers warranty and the UK dealer network has direct support from the MG Birmingham factory.
Customers who purchase the MG6 BTCC Edition before December 31 2012 will also receive a pair of VIP hospitality tickets to a 2013 race with a full hospitality package, including a grid walk and pit lane experience, and an MG KX Momentum team jacket and hat.
Guy Jones, MG Motor UK’s Sales & Marketing Director, said: “We are delighted to be back at the pinnacle of British motorsport in BTCC with the MGKX Momentum team. It has been a great first season for MG and the team and the BTCC Edition is designed to celebrate our return to top level motorsport. The MG6 BTCC Edition turns heads and delivers a great road-going driving experience at a price position that offers outstanding value for money. The class leading 14E insurance group makes this compelling new package available to a wide range of drivers.”
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