Speedback GT makes an impression in Dubai

Coventry’s latest automotive sensation is maintaining the city’s – as well as the region’s and UK’s – world class reputation across the globe.

David Brown Automotive, which is based at the University of Warwick Science Park’s Business Innovation Centre in Binley, has just launched its luxury Speedback GT vehicle to the Middle Eastern market at the Dubai International Motorshow. The vehicle, which was designed in Binley and is built in Warwickshire, retails at a cool £594,000 including VAT.

Following the launch in Dubai – as well as unveilings in the USA, Europe and the UK – even more luxury vehicle lovers are now ready to receive the hand-built, made-to-order and carefully handcrafted car.

Michelle Gay, David Brown Automotive’s Brand & Business Development Manager, said: “We had great feedback in Dubai. It was a five-day show with over 105,000 visitors and they loved Speedback GT.

“There was a huge selection of luxury cars on display at the show, but Speedback GT generated a huge amount of attention and compliments, with lots of visitors telling us it was their favourite car of the show.

“It also made a pre-debut appearance at the Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, which was a great experience and offered a stunning backdrop for some great photography.

“It’s a really exciting time for Speedback GT – the first customer will take delivery of the car very soon and we are in the process of completing further customer orders.
“Overseas buyers really love the fact that we are a British brand, with solid automotive expertise and utilising a heritage which has been developed over many, many years in the area.

“It’s a great testament to Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider region. Attending overseas shows, we had the expectation that we may have to explain where Coventry is located in the UK, but usually someone with a real knowledge and passion for cars is quick to recognise the city as a hub of automotive excellence.

“So the city and the region really does have an automotive heritage and reputation that continues today all around the world.

“The Business Innovation Centre provides a great base for us because of its location and also the support and services we get from the team.”

Around 10 staff are based at the Business Innovation Centre in Binley, which is used as a central hub for design, marketing and administration.

In addition, more than 100 people work on the project, including those working on behalf of the firm’s main manufacturing suppliers.

Jane Talbot, of the University of Warwick Science Park, said: “It’s great to be able to provide such a perfect home for David Brown Automotive alongside our many other tenant companies who operate in a range of different sectors.

“Of course, seeing them grow – and doing all we can to support that – is exactly what the Science Park is all about.”

Michelle added: “We have another exciting project in the pipeline but could be another year or two away from announcing that.”