Public sector charging facilities could be opened up to provide new options to all fleets as they target electrification, suggests the Association of Fleet Professionals. Chair Paul Hollick (right) said that some central and local government fleets were investing heavily in infrastructure to support their electric vehicles (EVs), and these could be made available in areas where private … [Read more...]
Newcomers
EV drivers beware of big fines and possible penalties
There are now more than 1 million EVs on our roads accounting for 2-3% of cars in the UK and as this increases millions of EV drivers should beware of five driving offences that could result in big fines and possible penalty points. Motoring experts at ATS Euromaster researched the most bizarre, and potentially unheard of, electric vehicle fines, that you need to be aware of and how much they … [Read more...]
Advice for first-time EV motorists, from Volta EV
If you've just taken delivery of a new-plate electric car or bought your first used version, here's some advice on the best times to recharge and get the most out of the battery and what you should avoid. EV charging expert Chris Moniz at Volta EV has given their advice on the best, worst, and cheapest times to charge your car in order to make it last! “While charging habits don't directly … [Read more...]
Toyota Yaris uprated and expanded
The latest Toyota Yaris offers customers the option of a more powerful 129bhp/96kW full hybrid electric powertrain, in addition to the established 114bhp/85kW system. This reaps the benefits of fifth generation Toyota hybrid technology to give sharper acceleration, allied to the car’s fundamentally nimble character. It’s the kind of performance profile that’s increasingly a priority for … [Read more...]
Car sales boom on eve of Budget
February’s figures reinforce the robust performance of the UK automotive sector, maintaining a strong start to 2024 and signalling a nineteenth month of consecutive growth, said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association, commenting on the latest SMMT new passenger car registration figures. In February, a total of 84,886 new cars were registered, an increase of … [Read more...]
Car makers Budget plan to overcome stalling EV sales
The automotive industry is calling for the Chancellor to use this week's Budget to put the UK’s shift to electric vehicles back in the fast lane. Research commissioned by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders from Savanta has revealed that rising numbers of would-be EV drivers are now likely to delay their switch to a battery electric car – but a three-point plan of tax reform would … [Read more...]
First drive: KIA EV9 Air RWD
KIA has turned the corner into a new market segment with its EV9 pure electric model. The EV9 seven-seater launches in three trim levels and an additional range-topping six-seat option from £65,025 to £78,775 in rear wheel drive or all-wheel-drive configurations depending on trim with 200bhp single or 378bhp twin motors. That puts it squarely into Mercedes and BMW electric model territory … [Read more...]
Big shift expected in 2024 UK car market
The analysis of the average UK monthly search volume for the past six months reveals the Nissan Qashqai as the undisputed champion, attracting a remarkable 815,000 searches in the six months August 2023-Jan 2024. Interestingly, the second-place position goes to the KIA Sportage, likely accumulating 765,000 searches over the last six months due to its new efficient Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid … [Read more...]
Newslines 1 March
The Cupra Born BEV range has been reduced and prices slashed to shift stock and widen ownership appeal. CUPRA has increased the accessibility of its first fully electric model, CUPRA Born, by reducing prices by £2,350 across the range coupled with a suite of electric vehicle (EV) purchasing incentives. Volkswagen Group United Kingdom has signed an agreement with Ecobat, the global leader in … [Read more...]
£4 Billion ev battery plant confirmed for West Country
Tata has finally confirmed its Agratas subsidiary will build a six-million sq foot car battery plant at a cost of £4 Billion near Bridgewater. The parent company of JLR aims to get it into production inside two years and to eventually build power packs for about 500,000 vehicles annually and provide 4,000 jobs on the lines. It will take up about half the area previously occupied by a Royal … [Read more...]