10 tips for safe driving this winter

January 4, 2024

Driving in winter means dealing with many extra hazards. The days are shorter and temperatures drop dramatically. Then there’s the likelihood of heavy rain, snow, ice, fog and dazzling low sun.

However, while you can’t predict the weather, you can take sensible steps to improve your safety. These range from checking your car thoroughly before you set off, to adapting how you drive to suit the conditions.

In this guide, we’ve put together 10 tips for safer winter driving. But first, let’s look at getting prepared.

Before you set off

There are seven key things to check on your car before driving in winter, especially if you have a long journey ahead. Work through this list before you set off.

Battery: The car battery needs to work harder during the winter, so ensure it is regularly serviced.
Tyres: Make sure there is at least 2mm of tread depth on the tyres, preferably more. Consider investing in winter tyres, which are more effective in cold weather (not only in the snow).
Cooling system: Add anti-freeze into your cooling system, but be sure to use the appropriate strength of formula.
Wipers and washers: Use a high-strength screen wash and replace damaged or faulty wiper blades. Never use the wipers to clear ice from your car’s windscreen.
Defrosting: Do not pour boiling water onto the windscreen – the sudden change in temperature may cause it to crack. Instead, use an ice scraper and/or a can of de-icer. Remember to clear all areas of glass, including the door mirrors and lights.
Lights: Check that all exterior lights are working, including fog lights and reversing lights.
Roof and windows: Clear all snow and ice from the roof and windows before setting off.

10 tips for safer winter driving

1. High gear, low revs

Use a higher gear when setting off as this will give you greater control of the vehicle. In slippery conditions, avoid using first gear if possible; it may cause the wheels to spin.

2. Take your time

When driving in snow, avoid high revs, but don’t drive so slowly that you risk losing momentum. Keep going, as this could be the difference between making it home or skidding to a halt. Remember, if you’re stuck, the chances are other drivers will be too, so you’re unlikely to receive help.

3. Skidding

If you get into a skid on snow or on ice, take your feet off the pedals and steer to safety. Only use the brakes when you’re unable to steer away from trouble.

4. Braking

Triple your braking distance and maintain a sufficient gap between you and the car in front. On a slippery surface, any sudden movements – such as erratic steering or braking – may result in the car careering out of control. Use a lower gear to help slow you down and then gently apply the brakes.

5. Stick to main roads

Keep to the main A-roads and motorways when possible, as these are more likely to have been treated with salt and cleared by a steady flow of traffic. There’s also a greater chance of help arriving should you break down or get stuck in a snow drift.

Avoid unlit rural roads, as there’s a risk that you or your stranded car could be hit by another vehicle. It’s also worth remembering when you last passed a house or shop, in case you need to find help.

6. Visibility

Use dipped headlights in the snow or foggy conditions, but remember to turn them off when conditions improve.

7. Potholes

Potholes are more likely to appear after freezing temperatures or a flood. It will be difficult to spot them at night, in snow or when the roads are covered in water, so drive with extra care.

Not only can a pothole cause damage to a car’s wheels, suspension or steering, you may also lose control of the vehicle. Our advice guide explains how to claim compensation for pothole damage.

8. Fog

In foggy conditions, reduce your speed but don’t slam on the brakes. Keep your distance to the car in front and don’t rely on them to guide you through a dense fog patch. Use dipped headlights and fog lights, but remember to switch them off when conditions improve.

It’s also important to remember that LED daytime running lights are unsuitable for driving in fog or at night. If you have automatic lights, make sure they are switched on.

9. Flood water

Avoid driving directly through the deepest water, which is normally near the kerb. Stick to the centre of the road, but look out for debris and potholes beneath the surface. If in doubt, don’t drive through flood water – seek an alternative route.

If you do drive through, take your time, avoid sudden acceleration and test your brakes when you’ve made it through the water.

10. Be prepared for a breakdown

If extreme weather is forecast, it’s worth packing for every eventuality. Should the worst happen, it’ll take longer for the breakdown service or emergency vehicle to reach you, so you could be left in the car or stranded by the roadside for a prolonged period of time. Before you set off in the snow, pack warm clothing, blankets and basic nourishment.

While a winter driving safety pack might seem extreme, you’ll be glad of it should you run into trouble. We’d recommend carrying the following items: high visibility jacket, torch, warning triangle, spare tyre, first aid kit, de-icer, screen wash, jump leads and sunglasses (for the low winter sun). Being prepared will help keep you safe.

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New lightweight trailer is designed for heavy SUVs and electric cars

John Redfern

January 3, 2024

There is no escaping the fact that cars and SUVs are getting heavier – and electric vehicles often tip the scales still further.

If you need to transport heavyweight new cars, or tow with them, the combined weight limit for towing in the UK remains at 3,500kg. This includes the tow vehicle, trailer and the car being transported.

However, Northamptonshire-based Brian James Trailers has been working on the problem. The company’s new flagship Race Transporter 7 (RT7) trailer weighs some 200kg less than its previous range-topping model.

A premium towing experience

Reducing weight by such a considerable amount is impressive, and should allow the RT7 to carry the heaviest SUVs or electric cars.

Helping the trailer stay light is new composite flooring, along with composite bodywork crafted by the same team responsible for the Ultima RS sports car. There is also plenty of LED lighting, including rear loading lights that illuminate automatically when the back doors are opened.

In what is said to be an industry first, a wireless electric actuator can be used to tilt the trailer and open its rear doors remotely. There is also a new wirelessly operated electric winch, which uses synthetic rope instead of steel wire.

Supercars, classics and more

Brian James Trailers will offer the RT7 in a number of different configurations, with buyers able to choose between twin- and tri-axle setups. Extra height versions can also be specified, plus there is a choice between black or white body finishes.

Lewis James, CEO of Brian James Trailers, said: “With exceptional specification and a lighter, stronger, smarter design, the RT7 takes enclosed car transport to a new level. Whether for supercar exotics, motorsport, classics or vehicle logistics, the RT7 is the ultimate choice”.

Prices for the RT7 start at £25,550 plus VAT, and come close to £40,000 for the largest version with all options added. Pre-orders for the new lightweight trailer are being taken now.

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How to avoid becoming a victim of keyless car theft

Motoring Research team

December 22, 2023

Keyless car crime has been in the news again recently, as the Range Rover earned the dubious accolade of being Britain’s most stolen car. In response, JLR has announced a £10 million investment to improve security and a unique car insurance package for owners of new and used Range Rovers.

However, keyless car crime affects more than just luxury SUVs. Following years of decline in the number of vehicle thefts, the so-called ‘relay attack’ is now the most common way of stealing cars.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: “Technology sold as a convenience for drivers is becoming the best tool for car thieves. Relay theft is now the preferred way to steal a car, as it is quick and quiet. The days of ‘smash and grab’ are over and have been replaced with ‘bounce and roll’ as thieves now bounce the signal off the keys in the house onto the car and roll away with the goods.”

So, what is keyless car theft and how can you avoid falling victim to this tech-savvy, 21st century crime?

What is keyless car theft?

A relay attack is very simple, making it all the more worrying for owners of cars with a keyless entry system. Once a car has been targeted, two criminals work together using electronic signal relay devices to steal it, often from outside the owner’s home.

One person stands by the targeted car, while the other one stands close enough to the house to enable a device to pick up a signal from the key fob.

This signal is transferred to a second box, which is placed alongside the car or in the hands of the other person, effectively fooling the vehicle into ‘thinking’ the key is present.

With the doors unlocked, the criminals can start the car at the press of a button, leaving them free to drive away. The electronic hardware to steal a car is available online for less than £100 – an incredibly tempting proposition for wannabe thieves.

How to prevent keyless car theft

Instances of keyless car theft typically occur in residential areas, especially at night, so motorists are advised to be on their guard when at home. However, while car theft is on the rise, there are steps you can take to protect your vehicle.

Although the relay device signal can pass through doors, walls and windows, it cannot penetrate metal, so storing your keys inside a metal container, a signal-blocking wallet or even a microwave will safeguard your vehicle against an attack.

You can purchase a signal blocker pouch (also known as a Faraday bag) for around £10 online. Do test it to ensure it is successful in blocking the signal, though. While it’s a good idea to store your keys away from the window or front door, think carefully before taking the keys upstairs or hiding them in a bedroom. If a thief is determined to break into the house to find the keys, it’s better to let them take the vehicle than put yourself or your family at risk.

Other steps you could take to avoid being a victim of keyless car theft include:

Check to see if your vehicle’s key fob can be switched off, or deactivates automatically after a short period when not in use.
Make sure the vehicle is locked after you park it. An opportunist thief might use a ‘jammer’ to intercept the signal between the key fob and the car, leaving the vehicle vulnerable to attack. Be on your guard.
Invest in a steering wheel lock. These provide a visual form of protection, as well as adding extra minutes to the seconds it might take to steal a car using a relay attack. Locks cost from around £20.
Add a tracking device. While it won’t stop a car being stolen, it will increase the chances of the police locating it and returning it to its owner.
Ask your car dealer if there have been any software updates to help secure it against keyless car theft.

‘Always check your car is locked’

Jenny Sims, Assistant Chief Constable at Merseyside Police, said: “While the rapid development of technology has dramatically improved the experience of drivers, it has also allowed criminals to exploit weaknesses in electronic security.

“We are working closely with car manufacturers to help them design out crime by sharing intelligence and equipment seized from criminals. We are already making substantial progress in this regard.

“I would urge drivers to take simple steps to keep their vehicle safe, like storing your keys in metal tins or protective pouches that block the devices criminals are using. A return to basics like making sure your car is locked is worthwhile, too. We know from research that some owners think that cars automatically lock – they don’t. Always double check before you walk away.”

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Everrati creates electric homage to ultra-rare Porsche 911 3.8 RS

John Redfern

December 20, 2023

Everrati has pulled the wraps off its latest electric restomod 911, which recreates one of the rarest and most valuable Porsches of all.

Like Singer Vehicle Design, Theon Design and others, Everrati uses a classic 964 model as its starting point. Its new project pays homage to the legendary 3.8 RS, an ultra-rare special edition from 1993.

In keeping with the RS it seeks to emulate, Everrati says the new model will feature lightweight upgrades and a greater focus on driving enjoyment.

Wing and a prayer

The original Porsche 911 3.8 RS was designed for use in motorsport. Just 104 cars were produced, with 49 in racing RSR spec and 55 for the road. Power came from an enlarged flat-six producing 300hp – 40hp more than the standard 3.6-litre 964 RS.

Everrati’s homage is based on a restored, narrow-bodied 964 Carrera, before adding an RS-inspired carbon fibre bodykit and 18-inch HRE alloy wheels. There are Carrera RS badges, too, although you’ll note the obvious absence of twin exhaust tailpipes.

On the inside, the rear seats have been removed. There are lightweight buckets trimmed in Bridge of Weir leather for the driver and passenger. A rear roll cage is installed, too.

Electric performance

Powering the Everrati is a 63kWh battery pack, which drives the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential. The Oxfordshire-based company claims a 0-60mph time of only 3.7 seconds. An original 964 3.8 RS requires 4.9 seconds to reach the same speed.

Tractive adaptive suspension is fitted, and the Everrati offers AC and DC fast charging capability. With a full battery, the car’s range is said to exceed 200 miles.

As with its other 964-based conversions, the new RS homage will be produced by Everrati’s production partners, Aria Group, in Irvine, California. The company has seen plenty of demand for Porsche restomods, with lead times now stretching up to 12 months.

Everrati Founder and CEO Justin Lunny said: “This exciting new addition to our range of redefined and electrified 911s is without doubt the most driver-focused yet.

“Paying homage to a legendary model from three decades ago, our new ‘RSR’ gets pulses racing with a host of lightweight enhancements, resulting in an unrivalled experience that combines the best of classic design with modern, zero-emission performance.”

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JLR launches Range Rover car insurance

Richard Aucock

December 19, 2023

JLR has introduced a new car insurance package for new and used Range Rover owners who are struggling to find affordable cover.

The Land Rover Insurance deal has been trialled since October. It has provided more than 4,000 customers with a JLR car insurance solution.

JLR says monthly premiums for Range Rover insurance are averaging less than £200 for the flexible, subscription-style car insurance package.

It’s the latest move by JLR to help owners who have faced challenges in finding car insurance.

Earlier this month, JLR announced a £10m investment in vehicle security to help reduce keyless car thefts in the UK.

Industry-wide challenge

JLR insists the challenges around high insurance premiums for luxury cars are an industry-wide issue.

“Customers of luxury cars and other luxury goods are experiencing an increase in thefts due to organised criminal activity in the UK,” said JLR UK MD Patrick McGillycuddy.

“The desirability of our luxury vehicles, couples with concerns around thefts, has recently led to challenges in obtaining insurance cover for some clients.”

He said JLR now providing its own car insurance is the latest investment in helping customers.

He added JLR will “continue monitoring and refining our service so that even more clients can take care of it”.

The car insurance package also extends to Jaguars, as well as all other models in the Land Rover line-up.

JLR stats show the new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, launched in 2022, are proving “highly resilient” to theft.

Of the 12,200 new Range Rovers that are on UK roads, only 9 have been stolen since January 2022. That is a 0.07 percent theft rate.

Of the 13,400 new Range Rover Sport on UK roads, only 13 have been stolen. That is a theft rate of 0.1 percent.

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The cars we loved driving in 2023

The cars we loved driving in 2023… and the ones worth waiting for

Tim Pitt

December 18, 2023

A sports car that can tackle rough terrain. An EV that is the height of automotive hedonism. A Lotus SUV. Our favourite cars of 2023 didn’t necessarily stack up on paper – but they certainly made sense on the road (or indeed off it). From a fiery hot hatchback to a decadent GT, this year has been full of surprises and rich in variety.

In a wider context, the most significant news was Rishi Sunak’s decision to push the ban on selling new, non-hybrid petrol and diesel cars back by five years to 2035. This gives cars with evocative engines, such as the Aston Martin DB12 and Porsche 911 Dakar, a welcome stay of execution, although time is still running short.

Thankfully, the Lotus Eletre and Rolls-Royce Spectre offer plentiful hope for the electric era (not to mention the British car industry), combining performance with refinement like never before. The public charging network might be lagging behind, but electric cars are racing ahead.

Read on for the five cars that pushed our buttons in 2023, plus five more we’re excited about for 2024 and beyond. We’ve included links to reviews and previews of all the cars featured here, too.

Aston Martin DB12

Explosively fast and exhilarating, yet also refined, luxurious and beautiful, the DB12 is everything a modern Aston Martin should be. Hell, you don’t even need to make excuses for the infotainment any more. Forget mid-engined hypercars and SUVs. Forget Formula 1, for that matter. Sporting GT cars are what this British company does best.

Powered by a 680hp 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the DB12 blasts to 62mph in 3.3 seconds and can reach 202mph. Chassis upgrades include adaptive dampers, a six-axis motion sensor and an electronic rear differential. Inside, a neat new 10.25-inch touchscreen offers over-the-air updates and a connected smartphone app.

We drove the DB12 on the Route Napoleon – a thrilling ribbon of tarmac in the foothills of the French Alps – and it gamely rose to the challenge. With abundant torque, communicative steering and steadfast grip, it felt equally at ease stringing together stacked hairpins as rumbling through Monaco later that day. Want to turn even more heads? The open-air DB12 Volante arrives in early 2024.

Read our Aston Martin DB12 review

Honda Civic Type R

The Civic Type R isn’t the fastest hot hatch you can buy. Nor, despite costing £46,995, is it even the most expensive. Yet when it comes to raw excitement, and an inseparable connection between car and driver, the Type R is a new hatchback without equal.

The credit goes to Honda’s fanatical engineers, who have honed every detail of the ultimate Civic. From its suede-wrapped steering wheel to its rapid-fire manual gearbox, each control operates with the same weighty precision as a GT-department Porsche. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine musters 329hp – good for 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds and 171mph – but a gutsy front-wheel-drive chassis is the star attraction here.

Honda has even toned down the Type R’s styling, so it now looks like a car grown-ups could conceivably drive. Your better half may complain about the stiff suspension, but you’ll be enjoying yourself too much to care. This will likely be the last ‘traditional’ Type R, so buy one while you can.

Read our Honda Civic Type R review

Lotus Eletre

Let’s park the idea that the Eletre isn’t a ‘proper’ Lotus. The company might have survived by hand-building a few hundred sports cars a year, but this electric SUV – and the profits it generates – will allow Lotus to thrive.

The standard 603hp Eletre uses a 112kWh battery and two motors for 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and 373 miles on a full charge. Or you can upgrade to the Eletre R, which musters a hypercar-bothering 905hp for 0-62mph in 2.95 seconds and 304 miles of range. Either way, you get a roomy, luxurious interior with 5G connectivity, up to seven touchscreens and its own smartphone app. You can’t say that about an Elise.

Weighing in at around 2.5 tonnes, this Lotus doesn’t handle like an Elise either, yet it isn’t only fast in a straight line. Air suspension and ‘porous’ aerodynamics, along with rear-wheel steering and anti-roll control in the Eletre R, make it accomplished and engaging to drive – and a credible rival for the Porsche Cayenne.

Read our Lotus Eletre review

Porsche 911 Dakar

People have been building homebrew ‘safari’ 911s since time immemorial, but it took Porsche nearly six decades to make the idea official. Inspired by the 953 that won the Paris-Dakar rally in 1984, the Dakar features a raised ride height, chunkier tyres and plenty of underbody protection. It’s designed to boldly go where no production 911 has gone before.

In our case, that meant a forest proving ground used to test military vehicles. Splashing through flooded trenches, clambering over deep ruts and chucking the 480hp, four-wheel-drive 911 Dakar sideways on loose gravel was about the most fun we’ve had on four wheels.

Granted, few owners will drive their Dakar with such reckless abandon, but it also excels on the road, where longer suspension travel and lower limits make for a rewarding experience – even at very sensible speeds. Porsche has limited Dakar production to 2,500 cars worldwide (250 for the UK), but don’t bet against it eventually becoming part of the regular 911 range.

Read our Porsche 911 Dakar review

Rolls-Royce Spectre

Is any car company better suited to going electric than Rolls-Royce? EVs naturally offer instant torque and smooth, near-silent progress – qualities that are perfect for a luxury car. Yes, they are also heavy, but that hardly matters when you have 584hp and 662lb ft under your right foot.

The Spectre is an imposing coupe with rear-hinged ‘coach doors’ and four adult-sized seats. Rolls-Royce has resisted the urge to cram it with touchscreens and tech, preferring analogue controls and traditional craftsmanship. The options for personalisation are almost limitless.

On the road, this is quite simply the quietest car I’ve ever driven: it’s quite eerie at first. Ride comfort, even on massive 23-inch alloy wheels, is suitably sumptuous, while a 102kWh battery and 329-mile range make long journeys eminently possible. When you do finally reach your destination (Saint-Tropez or the Amalfi Coast, perhaps), no car makes an entrance quite like the Spectre.

Read our Rolls-Royce Spectre review

Coming soon: the cars we can’t wait to drive

Ford Mustang

Now into its seventh generation since 1964, the Mustang’s classic curves, burly 5.0-litre V8 engine and manual gearbox seem more appealing than ever. Not sold on old-school cool? Ford also offers a carbon-bodied, 800hp+ GTD version to challenge the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. UK Mustang sales start early next year.

Read our complete history of the Ford Mustang

Lamborghini Revuelto

With a grand total of 1,015hp, Lamborghini’s new flagship has accelerated headlong into hypercar territory. The plug-in hybrid successor to the Aventador promises the best of all worlds, from an electric mode for city driving to a naturally aspirated V12 that revs to 9,500rpm. It’s already sold out until 2026.

Read our Lamborghini Revuelto preview

McLaren 750S

OK, as this is written, we have just got behind the wheel of the 750S in Portugal. However, if the plug-in hybrid Artura is anything to go by, this lightweight, V8-powered McLaren should be even better on its home tarmac. We said: ‘The 750S breeds confidence and encourages you to push at its limits. Among supercars, its balance and throttle-adjustability are second-to-none’.

Read our McLaren 750S review

Renault 5 EV

After the runaway success of the reborn Mini and Fiat 500, the return of the Renault 5 seemed almost inevitable. Due in 2025, the new 5 is fully electric, with ‘cheeky’ styling and a lightweight platform also set to underpin a new Renault 4. A sporty Alpine version is confirmed for production, too.

Read our Renault 5 EV preview

Volkswagen ID. GTI

Talking of hot hatchbacks, here is Volkswagen’s vision for an electric GTI. The ID. GTI concept allies classic styling cues – spot the red go-faster stripe – with a futuristic, tech-focused interior. It’s also pleasingly compact: closer in size to a Polo than the current Mk8 Golf. Now VW just needs to build it.

Read our Volkswagen ID. GTI preview

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When will each car brand end petrol and diesel sales in the UK?

Motoring Research team

December 16, 2023

The sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned in the UK from 2035.

An earlier plan to phase out non-hybrid petrol and diesel cars between 2030 and 2035 has been shelved.

However, the government will still introduce the ZEV Mandate on 1 January 2024. This dictates a minimum EV mix for each manufacturer’s annual sales.

In 2024, each car brand must sell 22% electric vehicles, rising to 80% by 2030. If they fail to meet it, they will be fined £15,000 for each car over target.

Therefore, like it or not, British motoring is going electric.

A growing number of manufacturers have announced plans to stop selling petrol and diesel cars ahead of the 2035 ban. We reveal the story so far.

Aston Martin – 2030

In a recent Financial Times article, Aston Martin chairman Lawrence Stroll said the company will continue to build internal combustion engines well into the next decade. That said, it will build its first EV in the UK from 2025. Everything points to the ability to buy an Aston Martin with a petrol engine until legislation says otherwise.

Bentley – TBC

Bentley will switch its entire model to offer exclusively plug-in hybrid or battery electric vehicles by 2026, and pure electric vehicles by 2030. This sees it move from being the largest producer of 12-cylinder petrol engines to having no internal combustion engines within a decade.

BMW – TBC

BMW Group told us it expects fully-electric models to account for at least 50 percent of global deliveries by 2030. The company will have 13 all-electric models on the road from 2023, with at least one all-electric model offered in approximately 90 percent of the company’s current market segments. The BMW Group includes BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce.

DS Automobiles – 2024

DS Automobiles has announced it will only sell electric cars from 2024. The French marque’s electric range is currently limited to the DS 3 E-Tense crossover, but a new EV with a promised 400-mile range is on the way. The pivot to EVs will come six years ahead of the UK government’s 2030 deadline.

Ford – 2030

You’ll almost certainly be able to buy a Ford with an internal combustion engine right up until the 2030 ban, but the company has laid out its path to zero. By mid-2026, 100 percent of its passenger car range will be zero-emissions capable, all-electric or plug-in hybrid, moving to pure electric by 2030.

Honda – TBC

Honda recently announced that it wants its range to be 100 percent battery or hydrogen powered in major markets by 2040. It also intends to offer solid state battery technology in its new EVs by the late 2020s.

Jaguar – 2025

Jaguar is to be reinvented as a pure electric car brand by 2025 with a “dramatically beautiful” range of new cars. CEO Thierry Bollore told Motoring Research his personal car is currently a Jaguar I-Pace. “It is a great car… we have plenty of ideas to make it even better.” Sister company Land Rover has confirmed that it will launch six pure electric variants in the next five years, with the first all-electric model arriving in 2024.

Kia – TBC

Kia told Motoring Research it’s too early to say when it will sell its last internal combustion engine in the UK, but the company is already set to meet its 95g/km emissions target this year. The company’s EV portfolio includes the e-Niro, Soul EV and forthcoming EV6.

Lotus – late 2020s

Lotus will shift to being an all-electric brand by the late 2020s. This is according to a quote from CEO Matt Windle published on the Automotive News Europe website. The decision was made in 2018 after positive feedback. “We took the decision to go straight to EVs after the Emira, which was already in development,” he said.

Mazda – 2030

Mazda told us it does not intend to cease UK sales of petrol and diesel cars ahead of the 2030 ban. It says it believes ‘a multi-solution approach that combines different technologies is the best way forward to reducing CO2 emissions. Electrification is a key pillar within Mazda’s multi-solution approach and by 2030 all Mazda vehicles will be electrified in some form. While electric vehicles are important to reducing CO2, we will still need internal combustion engines to power the majority of cars today and in the coming years.’

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz says it will launch three new electric cars in 2021. However, the company is unwilling to comment on any plans to stop selling petrol and diesel cars ahead of the 2030 ban.

MG – TBC

MG sells two EVs: the ZS EV and MG 5 estate car. It told us there’s no plan to cease petrol and diesel sales ahead of the ban, but that an early move to 100 percent electric wouldn’t be a ‘surprise’.

Mini – 2030

Currently, the only pure electric Mini you can buy is the Mini Electric, but everything looks set to change. The last Mini with an internal combustion engine will arrive in 2025, before the company goes fully electric by 2030. New pure electric versions of the Mini Hatch and Countryman are scheduled to launch in 2023.

Nissan – TBC

Nissan says all its ‘new vehicle offerings’ in key markets will be electrified by the early 2030s. “We’re determined to help create a carbon-neutral society and accelerate the global effort against climate change,” said Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida. The company hasn’t confirmed if it will stop selling petrol and diesel cars before the 2030 ban.

Renault – 2030

Renault told us it will stop selling petrol and diesel cars in the UK in 2030. There’s no word on whether the date will be brought forward.

Smart – now

Smart is ahead of the game, having switched to all-electric power in Europe and the USA. Mercedes-Benz and Geely have already unveiled the Smart #1 electric SUV, which has now been followed by the Smart #3. Daniel Lescow, Smart’s vice-president of global sales, said at the time: “It may come as a surprise to some: Smart will enter the market with a fully electric SUV – spacious yet compact. This will be the first vehicle of the joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, built in China.”

Suzuki – 2030

Like Mazda, Suzuki has no plans to stop selling cars with an internal combustion engine ahead of 2030 and already offers a 100 percent hybrid model range with one plug-in hybrid model available. Suzuki stopped selling diesel engined models in the UK in 2017 due to limited demand.

Tesla – now

There’s no need for Tesla to adjust its sales strategy, because the American company is 100 percent electric. The current range includes the Model 3, Model S and Model X, with the Model Y likely to arrive in the UK next year. The compact SUV is expected to offer 314 miles of electric range.

Toyota and Lexus – TBC

Toyota said it was ‘probably a bit too far forward to provide any definitive response at this stage’. By 2025, the company will offer more than 70 electrified vehicles, including at least 15 pure electric cars.

Vauxhall – 2028

Like DS, British brand Vauxhall is part of the Stellantis automotive empire. It says all the vehicles in its range will offer electrified versions by 2024, then be fully electric from 2028. The Ellesmere Port factory in Cheshire, previously home to the Astra, is shifting to EVs as well – starting with the new Combo-e LCV van.

Volkswagen – TBC

“In the year 2026 will be the last product start on a combustion engine platform,” VW strategy chief Michael Jost told an automotive summit in 2018. A spokesperson confirmed that the German giant will focus on electric cars instead. This doesn’t mean that VW will stop selling petrol and diesel cars ahead of the 2030 ban, but it paves the way for a radical move.

Volvo – 2030

Volvo’s electric strategy dovetails with the UK’s ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. The company says it plans to be fully electric by 2030, phasing out any cars with an internal combustion engine, including hybrids. “To remain successful, we need profitable growth. So instead of investing in a shrinking business, we choose to invest in the future – electric and online,” said Hakan Samuelsson, Volvo chief executive.

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Richard Aucock

December 15, 2023

The BYD Dolphin has been named AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2024, in one of the closest-fought competitions in years.

It marks the first time a Chinese new entrant brand has scooped the top AUTOBEST prize.

One of four finalists in the annual AUTOBEST ‘real world car of Europe’ awards, the BYD Dolphin claimed victory with 25.88 percent of voting points.

This placed it just ahead of the new Hyundai Kona, which took 25.44 percent of the points.

Remarkably, the Jeep Avenger scored 24.68 percent of the points, while the Fiat 600 scooped 24.0 percent.

The AUTOBEST jury comprises 32 jury members from across Europe, one from each nation. Motoring Research’s Richard Aucock represents the UK.

The objective is to find the best affordable new car in Europe. Models are assessed across 13 criteria, with a focus on price, running costs and ease of use.

Balanced

“It is one of the most balanced AUTOBEST competitions in a decade,” said founder and chairman Dan Vardie.

“All the finalists proved to be outstanding products, with a great appeal and competence, as checked by the jury members during very detailed tests.

“But in the end, we have a winner – and the BYD Dolphin makes history this year, as the first Chinese brand, with a model manufactured in China, becoming Best Buy Car of Europe.”

The BYD Dolphin pipped the other three finalists following the fourth annual AUTOBEST Final Test at the OAMTC proving ground in Teesdorf.

30 jurors attended the two-day event held in November, where the finalists were tested both on road and track.

AUTOBEST awards 2024

Other AUTOBEST Awards for 2024 include the Sportbest gong, which goes to Prodrive’s David Richards.

Chinese battery firm CATL has won the Technobest 2024 award, for its superfast-charting Shenxing battery. It can deliver almost 300 miles of range after just a 10-minute charge.

The Lotus Hyper OS infotainment system has won the Smartbest 2024 price, while the Continental Detectable Jacket is the Safetybest 2024 winner.

Finally, the super-affordable new Citroen e-C3 EV is the Ecobest 2024 winner.

All winners will be presented with their prizes at the 23^rd AUTOBEST Awards Gala, to be held in Luxembourg next spring.

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Audi Sport celebrates 40 years with RS E-Tron GT Ice Race Edition

John Redfern

December 14, 2023

Audi has revealed an ultra-rare special edition of the electric RS E-Tron GT, paying tribute to a spectacular ice racing event.

Only 99 examples of the Audi RS E-Tron GT Ice Race Edition will be sold worldwide, with just four right-hand-drive cars made available to UK enthusiasts.

Named after the annual GP Ice Race in Zell am See, Austria, this collectable coupe also pays tribute to 40 years of Audi Sport. Originally known as Quattro GmbH, the division has produced many high-performance road cars over the years, starting with the Audi RS2 Avant in 1994. Audi Sport was also responsible for the R8 supercar.

Freeze frame

Making the RS E-Tron GT Ice Race Edition stand out is a bespoke livery, created by Audi’s Exclusive customisation team. A Florett Silver RS E-Tron GT with a black carbon fibre roof is the starting point, before a foil wrap is applied.

Silver and white accents in the livery are meant to reference snow crystals and ice lakes, while striking violet tones are inspired by winter sports eyewear. Black 21-inch alloy wheels, along with dark privacy glass, offer a degree of contrast.

An Audi Exclusive leather package continues the theme inside, with a combination of diamond silver and black upholstery, plus bright violet stitching.

Instead of a physical numbered plaque, the Ice Race Edition has a unique serial number displayed on its infotainment screen. There is also a special background for the Multi Media Interface (MMI), along with a purple setting for the interior ambient lighting.

Cold as ice

The Ice Race Edition comes with front seats with heating and ventilation, a Bang & Olufsen sound system and a head-up display. Standard equipment for the RS E-Tron GT also includes carbon-ceramic brakes, adaptive air suspension and Quattro all-wheel drive.

Audi has left the electric powertrain unchanged, which means 598hp as standard. A ‘Boost Mode’ can lift this to 646hp, and slash the 0-62mph time from 3.6 seconds to 3.3 seconds. Fully charged, the RS E-Tron GT can cover 295 miles.

The price to own one of the four UK examples of this rare commemorative RS E-Tron GT will be £150,630 – around £30,000 more than the standard car.

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Covid and flu virus: how to sanitise your car

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

December 13, 2023

Keeping your car sanitised is especially beneficial during the winter months, when viruses such as Covid and flu are more widespread. Cleaning your car will reduce the risk of infection, helping keep you and your family safe and well.

In this article, we have put together a list of the key areas to sanitise, both inside and outside the vehicle. You should repeat this process regularly, especially if you are vulnerable to infections or carry a lot of passengers in your car.

For more general advice about cleaning the interior of your car, including removal of food and drink stains, read our separate guide here.

Which parts of the car should I clean?

These are the areas of your car where bacteria is most likely to accumulate. You should pay them particular attention when cleaning:

Around the driver – the steering wheel, centre console, levers, buttons, switches and internal door handle
Around the front passenger – the glove compartment (inside and out), dashboard buttons and internal door handle
Rear-seat area – cup holders, armrests, switches, cabin lights and internal door handles
Seat belt clips – an often overlooked area. Parents could unwittingly spread germs by fastening belts for children
External door handles – the first point of contact with any car. The boot latch is important after a food shop, as many don’t consider the risk of passing germs from a shopping trolley to the car. Handles are also at risk after filling up with fuel. Wear gloves at the pumps or, better still, carry latex gloves in the car
Engine area – if you have performed any car maintenance, clean the bonnet release, engine bay, oil cap, windscreen fluid cap and oil dipstick
Boot – internal release, parcel shelf and spare wheel compartment
Touchscreens – these screens are magnets for grubby fingerprints and germs
Car keys – these can be rife with dirt and bacteria

Which car cleaning products should I use?

Rubber gloves are an essential part of the car cleaning process. Dispose of them afterwards – and avoid touching your face while cleaning. Many home cleaning products are suitable for the job. However, don’t use bleach as this can damage plastics, vinyl and upholstery inside the car.

Damian Jeffries of car service app Fixter says: “Isopropyl alcohol is one of the best products to use and is widely available. However, Isopropyl alcohol is not suitable for leather seats, so it’s vital to use special leather cleaning products for these.”

Normal soap and water is recommended for cleaning touchscreens, as household glass cleaners can affect the anti-glare coatings. Don’t overdo the water, though, or you could make the car’s interior damp, encouraging misted windows and mould – not to mention electrical issues from water seeping into the dashboard.

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