The exciting history of a major brand: from the legendary ŠKODA 935 DYNAMIC to stars from ŠKODA’s current portfolio – Driven by Design “Everything needs a soul - at least everything that’s supposed to have meaning.” This is one of the guiding principles for the ŠKODA Design team and the jumping-off point for Driven by Design, which takes the reader on an exciting and emotional journey into the DNA of the Czech auto manufacturer. Since its founding over 120 years ago, the company has successfully captured the spirit of every era while simultaneously creating vehicles of timeless beauty throughout its long, rich history. Driven by Design provides thrilling insights into the vehicle design and development process. We’ll look over the designers’ shoulders during the crowning moments of their long journey from a vision to a finished product, from idea to ideal: inspiration, sketch, sculpture. The bar is set high – to create cars with character that appeal to all five senses. This aspiration has been perfectly realized in the new KODIAQ SUV, a vehicle that combines breathtaking design, functionality, and comfort while remaining decidedly and distinctively a ŠKODA. Thanks to Driven by Design, we know how such masterpieces are made. ŠKODA is one of the world’s oldest auto manufacturers. The company was established in 1895 by Václav Klement and Václav Laurin and initially used the founders’ last names as the company name. The headquarters, however, have always been in Mladá Boleslav, northeast of Prague. ŠKODA vehicles have always been known for their emotional and contemporary design: from the hand-built ŠKODA 860 (1929–1933) and the ŠKODA POPULAR MONTE CARLO (1935–1938) to the ŠKODA OCTAVIA COMBI (1961–1971). On April 16, 1991, “ŠKODA Automobil AG” became part of the Volkswagen Group. But one thing has never changed: ŠKODAs do more than move people; they move dreams as well.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 176

Dimensions: 235 x 293 mm

Publication Date: 20-04-2017

An Odyssey in Steam, David C Bell’s fifth book, is a product of two of his passions – paintings and steam engines. This work goes back many years with the author painting these engineering masterpieces. It is a unique look at the railway industry during the steam age – featuring the numerous engines from The National Railway Museum of York collection, the Flying Scotsman, NYMR, Carr Loco Doncaster and many more. This odyssey has been illustrated and annotated by the author to produce a book that will be coveted by any railway enthusiast. It is not only fascinating to read but a stunning marriage of words and pictures. *Beautifully illustrated and annotated by David C Bell, a railway and maritime artist of note *A unique history on the steam age from 'Rocket' to 'Mallard' *With an introduction from Ross Morell *Presents numerous engines from the resident collection at The National Railway Museum of York *Features the Flying Scotsman, NYMR, coronations, Carr Loco Doncaster and any more

Bind: hardback

Pages: 112.00

Dimensions: 300 x 260 mm

Publication Date: 20-04-2017

When Ferdinand Porsche could not find a sports car he liked, he decided to build one himself. And now, the rest is history: Jerry Seinfeld drives it; Boris Johnson admires it; Steve McQueen loves it; and Jeremy Clarkson hates it. The Porsche 911 moves the world. Despised by many in Germany as a set of wheels for fat cats, it is the favorite car of free spirits and intellectuals in the U.S. and across the globe. The Porsche 911 was not just invented by one of the most fascinating and controversial families – it is also a technical meisterwerk. Since its launch in 1963, the 911 has built a reputation for itself as “the thinking man’s sports car.” Both a car and a cultural icon, it has earned a fan base that spans from young to old, East to West, connoisseur to enthusiast. Porsche 911: The Ultimate Sportscar as Cultural Icon explains how this German car became a global phenomenon and a symbol of aspiration, freedom, and the appetite for perfection, and even more, why, around the world, the 911 continues to fascinate gentlemen, ladies, and rogue drivers.  In this book, Ulf Poschardt sends Porsche drivers to the shrink and concludes that a little narcissim can be a healthy thing; he then takes them on an engaging journey through the checkered history that defines their pride and joy.  Not everyone can, nor indeed should, drive a Porsche, but Porsche 911: The Ultimate Sportscar as Cultural Icon lays bare the raw driving force behind the 911 for anyone intrepid enough to discover. 

Bind: hardback

Pages: 200

Dimensions: 210 x 260 mm

Publication Date: 01-01-2017

Martijn Doolaard traded the convenience of a car and the distractions of daily life for a cross-continental cycling journey: a biped adventure that would take him from Amsterdam to Singapore. Leaving behind repetitive routines, One Year on a Bike indulges in slow travel, the subtlety of a gradually changing landscape, and the lessons learned through traveling. Venturing through Eastern European fields of yellow rapeseed to the intimate hosting culture and community in Iran, One Year on a Bike is a vivid chronicle of what can happen when the norm is pointedly replaced by exceptional self-discoveries and beautiful sceneries. Doolaard shares the gear and knowledge that made his trip possible alongside the passionate curiosities that served as his impetus. 

Bind: hardback

Pages: 368

Dimensions: 240 x 320 mm

Publication Date: 01-01-2017

These cars are futuristic, utopian, eccentric, and always ahead of their time. From models that were never presented to consumers to those produced as limited series, Fast Forward shows cars that pique people s interest and enthusiasm. From cars never shown to those models that see small production runs, Fast Forward presents vehicles that are just as much sculpture as automobile. Iconic winglets adorn models from the 50s. Automobiles of the 70s appear to be works of science fiction rather than modes of transportation. Classic interpretations and vintage prototypes that hinted at the future of yesteryear. Every decade has it own ideas of the future. The timeline of concept cars is narrated through an alluring pairing of project images and stories from inside studio walls. Designers discuss the catalysts behind their creations from the first scribble upon a blank page to a 3D model to the roadways. Fast Forward showcases the past, present, and, in the true spirit of concept cars, the future of this intriguing and diverse realm.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 288

Dimensions: 300 x 270 mm

Publication Date: 01-04-2017

Classics of automotive history, more exquisitely rendered than ever before  “Beetle,” “Black Widow,” and “Pony”—true gearheads don’t think of animals when they hear these names Please, no honking! Readers will be in seventh automotive heaven   Nicknames have to be earned. They are tokens of appreciation given only when people have built a special relationship to something (or someone). From the Chevrolet 3100 Pickup “Bubble Maker” and the Citroën DS “Goddess,” all the way back to Ford’s “Tin Lizzy,” this book presents ninety-nine classic cars and race cars, illustrated with great talent and affection by Helge Jepsen, with informative texts cleverly penned by Michael Köckritz. Just like the vehicles portrayed, this book will drive its way right into the heart of any car lover.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 208

Dimensions: 275 x 275 mm

Great British Cars celebrates the cars commonly seen on the nation’s roads during a golden age of motoring. From the 1950s to the 1970s, Britons drove such models as the Ford Zephyr, Hillman Imp, Triumph Herald, Ford Capri, Vauxhall Viva and, of course, the Morris Minor 1000. While rarely seen now on our roads, the 40 models described here still have a special place in many drivers’ hearts. Join Stephen Barnett on a nostalgic road trip back in time, in this beautifully illustrated celebration of classic cars.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 128

Dimensions: 246 x 186 mm

Publication Date: 12-10-2017

"Walking London" is the essential companion for any urban explorer visitor or native committed to discovering the true heart of one of the world's greatest capital cities. In 30 original walks, distinguished historian Andrew Duncan reveals miles of London's endlessly surprising landscape. From wild heathland to formal gardens, cobbled mews to elegant squares and arcades, bustling markets to tranquil villages Duncan reveals the pick of the famous sights, but also steers walkers off the tourist track and into the city's hidden corners. Handsomely illustrated with specially commissioned color photographs and complete route maps, the book provides full details of addresses, opening times and the best bars and restaurants to visit en route.

Bind: paperback

Pages: 256

Dimensions: 147 x 211 mm

Publication Date: 01-08-2016

Why would anyone want to do something as dangerous as motorcycling? For those who love to ride, no explanation is necessary. For everyone else, there’s Why We Ride. Designed as both an explanation for outsiders and an anthem for those within the fold, this new book presents the insights of Mark Barnes, PhD, a motorcycling clinical psychologist. As a popular columnist at Motorcycle Consumer News for more than twenty years, Dr. Barnes articulates the elusive physical, emotional, and interpersonal elements that make the world of the motorcyclist such a rich and exciting place. His wide-ranging text covers both sports psychology and the psychoanalysis of common riding experiences, including the results of Dr. Barnes’ own empirical research. Heartfelt and thought provoking, here is a straightforward account of what makes real motorcyclists tick. Inside Why We Ride: • What makes the hazards and hardships of riding a motorcycle worthwhile • An Examination of the complex gratifications, relentlessly compelling passions, and deeply personal experiences that motivate motorcyclists • Sports psychology and psychoanalysis of common riding experiences • Results of the author’s own empirical research on the motives of motorcyclists • A special section on how riders achieve the quasi-mystical state of “Flow,” a concept currently at the center of modern sports psychology

Bind: paperback

Pages: 240

Dimensions: 178 x 230 mm

Publication Date: 02-10-2017

Moveable homes with endless opportunities for exploration and changes of scenery. Converted ferries provide ample space for families. Shanty boats inspire images of Huck Finn’s literary journey and youthful spirit. Former cruise ships become charming hotels. Rock the Boat’s floating domiciles showcase alternative living solutions from the private to the commercial. From the romantic lakes of Kashmir to the Bay of Venice, houseboats claim their space atop the water worldwide. A buoyant boutique hotel awaits guests in London. A floating sauna promises relaxation for friends upon the Pielisjoki River. DIY timber rafts evoke pride of craftsmanship whilst inspiring feelings of adventure. These charismatic structures provide refuge from being landlocked and a promise to satisfy curious natures. Rock The Boat profiles the imaginative inhabitants and designers behind these houseboats; the volume offers inspiration to anyone interested in a touch of escape or even a permanent change of address.

Bind: hardback

Pages: 256

Dimensions: 210 x 260 mm

Publication Date: 30-09-2017