COVENTRIANS flocked to the city centre last weekend for a marvellous display of innovation, fuel-filled fun and fast cars as MotoFest returned full-throttle.
Petrol heads marvelled as supercars ranging from Lamborghini’s to Aston Martin’s took to the Coventry ring road sprint circuit.
There were plenty of classic cars on display across the weekend, including a 1956 Jaguar D-type’ ‘long nose’ that finished sixth and recorded the fastest lap at that year’s Le Mans.
Car Iconics, a firm started by father and son motor enthusiasts Stephen and Daniel Gannon, showcased their Corvette ZO6.R, the only seven-speed manual model to be released onto the UK market.
Classic vehicles were spread across the sun-soaked city centre including the cathedral ruins, Broadgate and the Coventry Transport Museum.
The pink Coventry-built Jaguar XJS, which acted as the inspiration for the iconic Barbie toy car, was among the more interesting vehicles parked outside the Transport Museum.
One of the highlights of the weekend was the high-octane, fast and furious performance by Crewsade’s stunt drivers at MotoFest’s first-ever dedicated drift arena.
Skyfarer were also showcasing their innovative drones that completed just under 2000km worth of journeys between October and December during a trial run carrying and delivering medical supplies between Coventry’s University Hospital and Rugby’s Hospital of St Cross.
A larger drone, which is due to be tested from July, can carry a maximum take-off weight of 52kg.
CycleFest was also integrated into this year’s event, with the 3.7km MotoFest Sprint Circuit open for cycling on Saturday evening.
There were also plenty of classic motorbikes on display, as well as all-new fully electric bikes created by Solihull firm silence urban technology that can travel 85 miles on one battery charge.
The Methodist central hall joined in the fun, showcasing the work of the Coventry Urban Eden green project, and Friday’s Coventry choir also performed outside the venue.
And there were plenty of fun-filled activities available for youngsters including merry-go-rounds, a train ride and trampolines.
Last year’s event was postponed as a mark of respect following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, meaning this was the first full-scale MotoFest to be held since 2019.
