The British International Motor Show sponsored by Zurich Connect opens its doors next week and will wheel spin into history books as the most expensive car collection ever seen in the UK. The event sponsor, motor insurance company Zurich Connect, has valued the cars on display at over £37.4m.

In total, the British International Motor Show plays host to over 600 cars from over 60 cars marques, and also boasts 20 global launches and over 30 UK and European debuts. Global Launches include the much anticipated Vauxhall/Opel Insignia, the first all-new model from Lotus in 12 years, Ford’s super-hot Focus RS – the fastest and most dynamically advanced Focus ever and the 200mph Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed, billed as the fastest saloon car in the world. There are also stunning new offerings from Alfa Romeo, Seat, Nissan, Renault, Mazda and NICE and many more. One stunning exhibit piling the pounds on to the value of the show is the ultra-exclusive ‘Ultimate Collection’. This private display area above the main show hall is made up of some the most spectacular cars on the planet and can only be accessed with a limited edition ticket costing £99. Cars in this section include a Pagani Zonda, the Koenigsegg CCX-R, a McLaren SLR as well as cars from Maserati and Spyker.

Mike Quinton, head of Zurich’s direct & partnership division, said, “The sheer number and quality of cars that are gathered together here under one roof is certainly something you don’t see every day. From the smallest around-town model to the most expensive supercars on the planet, the insurance value of all the cars at the Show is always going to be huge, but it’s certainly bigger than anything I have ever seen – it just demonstrates what a great Show it’s going to be.”

Other features in this motoring extravaganza include:

- The Heritage Enclosure and Parade: A unique driving display of high performance supercars from the last five decades.

- The Autoglym Supercar Paddock: Some of the most exotic, expensive and highly revered performance cars on the planet.

- Land Rover's Ultimate Experience: Negotiate treacherous side slopes and hair raising descents or drive yourself on the 'mini' terrapod off road course.

- Dreamscape: Honda Live Action Arena: A live-action stunt show in a 3,500- capacity purpose built Motor Theatre.

- Disney World of Cars: UK debut of the characters from Disney/Pixar’s high-octane adventure, Cars, including Lightning McQueen, Sally the snazzy Porsche 911, Mater and Mack the Truck.

- The Marine Experience: National Boat Show’s incredible line up of boats, ranging from million pound yachts and motor cruisers to more affordable ribs and sailing dinghies.

- Zoom-Zoom Challenge 2008: Mazda show off the handling of their MX-5 and Mazda2 3-door as you test the cars and your driving skills against the clock on a purpose built track

- The Co-operative Insurance Greener Driving Pavilion in association with Act on CO2 & Electric Vehicle Village: An interactive showcase of green innovations, exciting new automotive technologies, a seminar area, tips on greener driving and an impressive collection of the latest electric cars.

- The Motor Show Music Festival: Live acts perform late night concerts each night of the Show, including UB40, Status Quo, Squeeze, Meatloaf, Blondie and Jools Holland featuring Marc Almond.

- Careers Zone: Experts from all levels and sectors on hand to give practical advice on every thing from manufacturing and engineering to repair to technical accreditation.

- Peugeot Driving School: Children over four years old can race around the little roads in mini carts and learn to drive at this quirky driving school, and even get a little driving licence.

- Garmin Great British Drives: Experience the sights, smells and sounds of some of the most breathtaking driving routes in the British Isles.

Courtesy: British International Motor Show, UK

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Posted by Jigar Gondalia on 22 July, 2008 10:44:16 AM IST #