Ford UK managing director Lisa Brankin was recognised as an Outstanding UK Leader. A petrolhead with a real appreciation for the company’s most enthusiast-focused cars, she’s charged with keeping the manufacturer in the black as it negotiates the transition to EVs.
Lord Bamford, owner and chairman of JCB, earned the Innovation Award through his company’s research into hydrogen powertrains for automotive applications. JCB has designed and built a zero-emissions, hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engine in just two-and-a-half years. The Ferrari 296 GTB and Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS both achieved top marks when put under the microscope of the Autocar Road Test.
The 718 Cayman GT4 RS, on the other hand, is the car that Porsche resisted making for so long, uncorking the tremendous potential of the mid-engined sports car by giving it a flat-six engine turned up to 11, clever aerodynamics and a lightened yet stiffened chassis. The result is a truly special performance car that’s likely to be remembered as one of the best of the breed for a long time to come.