Motorsports
DHL delivers record-holding 1930s race car to Hong Kong Classic motor show
Rapid, faultless delivery and freight handling expertise: these were the key elements in the transport of a British motorsport treasure. Punctually in time for the start of the Hong Kong Classic Motorshow, DHL delivered the Napier Railton (one of the world's most renowned antique race cars) to its debut appearance in Asia.
From 9 to 11 October, the Napier Railton went on display together with more than 100 other vehicles at the Hong Kong Classic and Vintage Festival. The car's heritage and special requirements, including the use of a unique petrol and lubricating oils specific to its age, made expert handling an utmost priority for DHL and the Hong Kong Classic's organizers.
"To successfully transport such a prized piece of racing history, you need both capabilities for automotive delivery as well as, like the Napier Railton, a solid track record for getting highly delicate items to the finish line on time," said Kelvin Leung, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. "Ensuring the integrity of such a delivery encompasses not just the car itself, but also a range of supply and maintenance needs that have to be accounted for the entire duration of the trip."
The race car was built in 1933 for British driver John Cobb. It has a 12-cylinder 24-liter 580-horsepower engine which was also fitted to combat aircraft of the 1930s. Between 1933 and 1937, the Napier Railton set 47 world speed records at Brooklands, Montlhéry and Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The car retains to this day the lap record at Brooklands: 143.44 mph (230.84 km/h).
DHL transported the two-ton Napier Railton by road from its permanent exhibit at Brooklands Museum to Heathrow Airport, followed by a direct air service from London to Hong Kong and road transfer to Hong Kong's Central district. After the Hong Kong Classic, DHL was also responsible for the return leg of the journey from China.
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