Delphi gets ready to ‘Make Some Noise’ for Ben in Bangers4Ben 2026 challenge

Delphi is getting ready to hit the road for this year’s Bangers4Ben challenge, with Ben Spencer and Kenny Kay from the Delphi UK team preparing to take on the Pyrenees in a 2003 Volvo S60, all in the name of raising money and awareness for Ben, the Automotive Industry Charity.

Taking place from 2nd - 6th October, Bangers4Ben will see teams from across the industry tackle a unique road trip through the Pyrenees, with each team buying a car for no more than £750, giving it a theme and raising as much as possible for Ben. Once the challenge is complete, the cars are donated to be auctioned, with the proceeds going back to the charity.

Aliya Lam, Country Director UK at PHINIA, said: "The opportunity to take part in Bangers4Ben comes at the perfect time, as we continue to focus on raising brand, safety and industry awareness. Increasing the visibility of the Delphi brand and highlighting the importance of quality braking components are key priorities for us, and partnering with Ben provides a fantastic opportunity to support both the charity and the wider industry. We're excited to get involved. We know it will be a great team-building experience, bringing colleagues together while supporting a truly worthwhile cause."

For Delphi’s Spencer and Kay, the challenge has also provided an opportunity to combine a love of cars and adventure with a cause that supports people across the automotive industry.

The pair has teamed up with Dean Lomas of DC Lomas garage, to take on the challenge in a 2003 Volvo S60, finished in what Spencer describes as “stunning peacock green”, complete with heated seats and fully functioning air conditioning. The car was supplied by Lomas, who has also offered to help with any mechanical requirements to ensure the Volvo is ready for the road.

Kay explained: "We purchased the Volvo S60 from the friendly and trusted garage DC Lomas Ltd., who is also the face of the Neurodivergent Mechanic. When we told him about our Bangers4Ben adventure he loved the idea and asked if he could come too. The car has been used by different members of his team, so we know it has been well cared for and we're excited to see it put to the test around the Pyrenees."

As for the theme, the team is keeping its plans firmly under wraps for now, although Kay hints that some ambitious ideas are already being discussed.

He added: "We've been catching up about our ideas and quickly turn into teenagers when bouncing ideas around of great big spoilers and excessive car horns.”

The team's participation also provides another opportunity to bring Delphi's ‘Make Some Noise’ message to life, with the campaign designed to raise awareness of braking quality, performance and the importance of correct fitment.

Spencer said: "Ben does so much for our industry and community, so an opportunity to give back is something we simply couldn't ignore. This also coincides with our mission to raise awareness about the importance of braking as safety-critical components, so we will of course be ‘making some noise' about it along the way." 

Lam added: “I'm sure many of us know someone who has benefited from the support Ben provides. The professionalism, care and integrity they demonstrate in everything they do is truly outstanding, making a real difference to individuals and families across our industry."

While the charity is the serious reason behind the adventure, the Delphi duo already has a less serious strategy in mind for the trip. Kay's three-point plan is simple: don't break down, have fun and enjoy the experience - and, if they happen to find a nice lake along the way, go swimming.

Spencer has similar priorities, with the main objective being to arrive in one piece with the car intact, while making the most of the scenery and stop-off points along the route.