Fuel prices finally fall after ‘nightmarish’ three months

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May 5, 2022

New data from RAC Fuel Watch reveals that April 2022 saw an end to three months of constant fuel price rises.

A 0.5p per litre drop in the price of petrol over the course of the month, to 162.75p a litre, will be scant consolation for motorists, however. Diesel prices remained constant throughout the month, at 177p per litre.

Overall, it means petrol is now 4.5p per litre cheaper than the record high of 167.3p, set on 22 March 2022. Diesel costs 2.5p less than the peak seen last month.

The cost of driving every mile

Filling a typical 55-litre fuel tank with petrol is now 50p cheaper than at the start of April, at an average cost of £89.51. Filling an equivalent diesel car still costs £97.

The RAC calculates that, using an average figure of 40mpg, every mile driven now costs 18.5p in a petrol car. A diesel car costs 20p per mile by the same measure.

Motorway fuel prices increased during April, with petrol at 182.08p per litre and diesel at 192.34p.

Supermarkets remained the cheapest source of fuel, with Asda boasting the lowest-priced petrol at 159.38p per litre. Asda also had the cheapest diesel at 173.12p.

Retailers making a bigger margin

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “After three months of nightmarish price rises, April finally saw an end to seemingly endless forecourt hikes.

“Although the price of oil has cooled considerably, there’s still plenty of uncertainty in the market, which is leading to prices jumping around a lot. This coupled with the exchange rate worsening isn’t good for drivers and news that the EU is planning to phase out Russian oil is likely to cause the barrel price to rise.”

Williams added: “It’s also very much the case that retailers’ margins were far higher in April than they were in March. RAC Fuel Watch data estimates they took around 4p more a litre than they did over the course of the previous month. This will surely be a disappointment to the Chancellor, who cut fuel duty by 5p a litre in the Spring Statement.”

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‘No nonsense’ Ineos Grenadier 4×4 to cost from £49,000

By

John Redfern

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May 4, 2022

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New British brand Ineos has confirmed launch prices and specifications for its off-road-ready Grenadier 4×4.

Orders can be placed from 18 May, with prices for the Grenadier starting from £49,000.

This buys the ‘no nonsense workhorse’ two-seat Utility Wagon, but Ineos also offers a five-seat Station Wagon in several trim levels.

A dedicated off-roader

Inspired by the original Land Rover Defender, all versions of the Ineos Grenadier feature a ladder-frame chassis, permanent four-wheel drive and locking differentials.

Engines consist of BMW-supplied turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-sixes, with buyers able to pick between petrol and diesel at no extra cost. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, along with a high- and low-range transfer box for when the going gets truly tough.

The £49,000 Utility Wagon is classed as a commercial vehicle, with a cargo bulkhead to allow for maximum payload capacity. Equipment includes Recaro seats, LED headlights and an off-road navigation system.

The five-seat Grenadier Station Wagon costs from £52,000. Like the Utility Wagon, it has a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, plus a DAB radio.

High-spec Belstaff editions

Ineos will offer two higher-spec versions of the Station Wagon, each priced at £59,000. Both are collaborations with outdoor clothing manufacturer, Belstaff.

The Grenadier Trialmaster Edition is named after the Belstaff Trialmaster jacket, and is designed for extreme off-road action. A raised air intake, BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tyres, front and rear locking differentials and a compass with altimeter are included.

For the opulent Grenadier Fieldmaster Edition (also named after a jacket), Ineos adds 17-inch alloy wheels, safari windows, leather upholstery and heated front seats.

A British car built in France

Grenadiers will be produced at Ineos Automotive’s Hambach plant in France. The company previously abandoned plans for a factory in Wales.

More than 1.1 million miles of testing were undertaken as part of the Grenadier’s development, and a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty will be standard. A UK-based customer service centre has been opened by Ineos, too.

Inspiration for the Grendier’s name came from Ineos chairman, Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The Grenadier pub in Belgravia was where the idea for the 4×4 was first created and announced.

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Hyundai i30 N Limited Edition wears GPS coordinates of the Nurburgring

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John Redfern

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May 3, 2022

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Hyundai has announced a new special edition of its feisty i30 N hot hatchback.

Although not blessed with the catchiest name, the Hyundai i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition has a number of exclusive features.

A total of 800 examples will be produced for all global markets, with 75 cars allocated to the UK.

Get ready to grin

The i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition uses the same mechanical hardware as the regular i30 N. That means a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 276hp and 289lb ft of torque.

An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to the front wheels. Drivers can use the N Grin Shift button to gain a 10hp boost for 20 seconds.

Making the i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition stand out are new 19-inch alloy wheels, finished in a dark matte bronze. Black exterior Hyundai badges are also included, along with bespoke decals.

Each car wears the GPS coordinates of the Hyundai Motor Europe Test Centre, located at the Nurburgring circuit in Germany. It’s where Hyundai’s performance models have been tested since 2011.

On red alert

Following social media feedback from Hyundai fans, buyers will have a choice of Phantom Black or new Serenity White paint options.

On the inside, Hyundai has chosen Alcantara instead of leather for the steering wheel, gear lever, armrest and manual handbrake cover. Red stitching provides a contrast, with further red details on the sports seats and seatbelts.

Along with the 75 cars for the UK, 545 examples of the i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition are reserved for other European markets. Australia will receive 180 cars from the total production run.

UK prices and specifications for the i30 N Drive-N Limited Edition will be confirmed soon.

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Lotus to open flagship London showroom opposite the Ritz hotel

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John Redfern

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May 1, 2022

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Lotus will open its first flagship store later this year in London’s exclusive Mayfair.

Currently under construction, the Lotus store will act as a shop window for the brand’s latest products.

The Mayfair site will be used as a template for further Lotus venues around the world. It follows the adoption of a new visual identity for the company’s existing showrooms.

Putting on the Ritz

Located at 73 Piccadilly, on the corner of Berkeley Street, the new Lotus store will be opposite one of London’s major landmarks.

The two-storey showroom will face the famous Ritz Hotel, allowing guests to see the Eletre SUV, Emira sports car and Evija hypercar.

Space on the ground floor will be used to display three Lotus cars, while also offering a range of Lotus merchandise.

Home for Lotus Advanced Performance

Beneath the main showroom, the Mayfair store will host a VIP lounge. This will include a digital configuration system, allowing customers to design their dream Lotus.

The showroom will also house Lotus Advanced Performance. Launched earlier this year, the division is responsible for building bespoke and limited-edition cars.

Geoff Dowding, executive director of sales at Lotus, said: “This flagship facility will allow anyone to see our exciting three-car range, understand our brand, speak with a Lotus expert, configure a car using state-of-the-art digital e-commerce technology, and even reserve it through our recently launched e-commerce platform.

“As this is the first of our global stores and as it’s in the very centre of London, we fully expect Lotus Mayfair to attract many visitors from around the world. As such, it will play host to some of the most amazing Lotus cars from today and yesterday – including from our legendary racing past – as well as a packed calendar of events at the store.”

A launch event will mark the official opening of the Mayfair store this autumn.

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Dacia builds its 10 millionth new car

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John Redfern

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May 1, 2022

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Dacia is celebrating a major milestone, having just produced its 10 millionth car.

It’s a significant landmark for the Romanian company, which was founded in 1966 as Uzina de Autoturisme Pitești (UAP).

An early agreement with Renault saw Dacia begin production of the 1100, a licensed version of the Renault 8, in 1968.

However, the full acquisition of the brand by Renault in 1999 has seen it expand far beyond its home market.

Dusting off a new car

The 10 millionth Dacia to leave the Mioveni production line in Romania was a new Duster Extreme SE, finished in Urban Grey.

It represents one of 2.1 million Dusters produced since the budget SUV was launched in 2010.

Dacia’s top-selling models that have contributed to the 10 million cars include:

2.6 million examples of the Sandero and Stepway
2.3 million 1300s, built between 1969 and 2006
2.1 million Dusters
1.95 million versions of the Logan and Logan MCV.

Dacia’s success is evidenced by the Sandero being Europe’s best-selling car, with the Duster as the most popular SUV.

A global success story

Renault’s development of Dacia has seen the company build more than 7.5 million vehicles since 2004. The brand is now available in 44 different countries, with more than 220,000 Dacias sold in the UK alone.

Along with the main Romanian production facility, Dacia now builds vehicles in Morocco, Algeria and China.

Dacia CEO Denis Le Vot said: “We are very proud to have passed the symbolic milestone of 10 million vehicles produced. This result rewards a pragmatic vision of the automobile, focused on what is essential to our customers. Building on its experience, Dacia will continue to grow and offer attractive vehicles that are adapted to our customers’ lifestyles.”

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Porsche goes retro with new 911 Sport Classic – yours for £210,000

By

John Redfern

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April 28, 2022

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Porsche has revealed a new Sport Classic version of its iconic 911 sports car.

Featuring retro styling inside and out, the limited-edition Sport Classic pays homage to the 1973 Carrera 2.7 RS– considered by many to be the greatest 911 of all.

The first 911 Sport Classic was based on the 997-generation car from 2009. This new ‘992’ version is noteworthy for being the most powerful Porsche 911 fitted with a manual gearbox.

Shades of grey

Each of the 1,250 Sport Classics has a wide 911 body, ducktail rear spoiler – a direct reference to the 2.7 RS – and unique ‘double bubble’ roof.

Buyers can opt for a new Sport Grey metallic paint finish, with a lighter grey used for the twin body stripes. The other colours offered are solid Black, Agate Grey metallic or Gentian Blue metallic.

Powering the retro 911 is a thoroughly modern engine. Its twin-turbocharged 3.7-litre flat-six produces a mighty 550hp, which is sent solely to the rear wheels via a seven-speed manual ‘box.

Rev-matching ensures every downshift will feature a perfect blip of the throttle. A sports exhaust system is said to enhance this experience.

Sticking with manual

The high-performance 911 GTS and Turbo models donate their Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system to the Sport Classic. A 10mm drop in ride height ensures a sportier stance, too.

Inside, Porsche’s famous ‘Pepita’ houndstooth fabric is found on the seat centres and doors. Black or Cognac Brown leather offers a contrast, creating a truly distinctive interior.

Porsche Design has also created a bespoke Sport Classic chronograph watch. Offered solely to the car’s 1,250 customers, it includes the option of a Pepita houndstooth dial, plus a leather strap that matches the seats.

Ready to sell out

Want one? You will need at least £209,950. This makes the Sport Classic more than twice the price of the already-impressive 911 Carrera S.

However, Porsche typically has no problem finding enough buyers for its limited-edition cars. Orders are now open, with first deliveries scheduled for July 2022.

For those who cannot stretch to a Sport Classic, Porsche does offer a Heritage Design Package for other 911 models. This includes the Pepita trim, plus headrests embossed with the Porsche logo.

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Dodge now has a Chief Donut Maker – yes, really…

By

John Redfern

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April 27, 2022

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After months of searching, Dodge has named the first ‘Chief Donut Maker’ as an ambassador for its modern muscle cars.

Preston Patterson from North Carolina beat more than 173,500 other applicants to claim what Dodge calls the ‘the greatest automotive job in the world’.

Dodge made the announcement on 26 April, known as ‘Hemi Day’ to Mopar muscle car fans.

Built between 1964 and 1971, the 426-cubic inch Hemi V8 engine is a legendary part of Dodge history, with the American date format of 4/26 making 26 April the perfect day to celebrate.

The best job in the world

Following an initial application, the contenders for Chief Donut Maker were asked to submit short videos explaining why they deserved the role.

With the help of former professional wrestler Bill Goldberg, Dodge picked 10 finalists to fight for the ultimate accolade. The final decider involved a range of driving challenges – using a Dodge muscle car, of course.

As the winner, Patterson will claim a $150,000 (£119,250) one-year salary, the use of a Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, plus access to exclusive automotive events.

“To go from a kid who had a poster of a Dodge Viper on my bedroom wall to being handed the keys to a Dodge Challenger Hellcat as my company car is beyond my wildest dreams,” said Patterson.

The new circular economy

Dodge CEO, Tim Kuniskis, said: “We put our candidates to the test both on and off the track and Preston never lifted, proving that he possesses the knowledge, character and drive to represent the Brotherhood of Muscle.”

A key part of Patterson’s role in acting as a Dodge ambassador will be ensuring enthusiasts are ready for a transition to electrification.

The company plans to launch the world’s first all-electric muscle car in 2024, which Dodge says will ‘tear up the streets, not the planet’.

More information on the new electric Dodge muscle car is expected later this year, meaning Patterson is likely to be working hard for his salary.

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Most Brits think they would pass their driving test again today

By

John Redfern

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April 27, 2022

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A new survey finds British motorists have a high level of confidence in their own driving abilities.

Research by Volkswagen Financial Services asked whether drivers would feel confident to pass their practical driving test, if they retook it tomorrow.

A clear majority (70 percent) believed they would have no problem with easily passing their practical test again.

Practical confidence

Older drivers were most confident of all, with 81 percent of over 65s feeling they would pass another driving test.

For comparison, official data from the DVSA shows the practical driving test had a 50.5 percent pass-rate during 2021-22.

When it comes to the theory test, British drivers were slightly less confident. Overall, 59 percent of those asked reckoned they would successfully complete a theory test.

Faith in passing the theory test seemingly decreases with age. While 76 percent of millennials thought they could do so, this declined to 53 percent for over 45s.

Picking up bad habits

Just under half (46 percent) of those surveyed felt they could re-pass both parts of the driving test. However, 17 percent of the 2,032 people questioned believed they would not pass either aspect of the test.

Charlotte Cheeseman of Volkswagen Financial Services UK said: “Most of us learn to drive when we’re teenagers and, as the years go by, I’m sure most people pick up bad habits along the way. So it’s interesting to see that so many drivers believe they’d re-pass their practical test at the drop of a hat, especially when you consider that a significant number of the population are likely to have sat their original test more than 20 years ago!

“But I think this research relates to a wider point about the British public’s undeniable love of driving. For me, it speaks volumes about our collective confidence on the road and that we feel safe, relaxed and comfortable in our cars.”

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All-female W Series racing announces Sky Sports TV deal

By

John Redfern

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April 26, 2022

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The all-female W Series single-seater motorsport championship has agreed a broadcasting deal with Sky Sports.

A three-year partnership, beginning with the upcoming 2022 season, will include the live broadcast of all qualifying sessions and races.

The agreement will run through to the end of W Series’ fifth on-track season in 2024.

It represents the largest media investment by the W Series to date, replacing Channel 4 as the championship’s UK broadcaster.

The biggest W Series season yet

Along with Sky Sports in the UK, W Series is also entering into a new partnership with Sky Sports Italy. The championship has an existing agreement with Sky Sports Germany.

Sky plans to announce its on-air presenting lineup for the W Series ahead of the season-opening round on 7 May.

Channel 4 has retained free-to-air rights to broadcast the fourth round of the 2022 W Series, which supports the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Highlights of the other nine rounds of the W Series will be free-to-air on Channel 4.

‘Showcasing exciting racing’

The 2022 W Series promises to be the highest-profile edition of the championship yet. It includes 10 rounds, supporting eight Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends, beginning with the inaugural Miami GP.

British driver Jamie Chadwick, the defending double champion, will return aiming for a hat-trick of title wins in 2022. This year sees her driving for the new Jenner Racing team, owned by Caitlyn Jenner.

Catherine Bond Muir, W Series CEO, said: “W Series is an increasingly international series – more than half of the races during the 2022 season will take place outside Europe, including our first-ever race in Asia in support of the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. Our broadcast partnership with Sky Sports reflects this, giving us great breadth of coverage across Sky’s global platforms and we’re excited to showcase incredibly exciting racing through fantastic content, direct to our fans.”

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Waiting more than 3 seconds causes green light anger

By

John Redfern

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April 26, 2022

0

It should only take motorists three seconds to move off when traffic lights turn to green, according to a new survey.

In a study of almost 2,500 drivers by the RAC, nearly half (46 percent) said it should take no longer than three seconds for the driver in front to respond.

Between four and six seconds was acceptable for just over a third (35 percent), with only seven percent willing to wait for others as long as is required.

Three seconds to frustration

The level of frustration felt by drivers was relatively evenly split. Overall, 46 percent said they get annoyed by having to wait, versus 54 percent who remain unbothered. Younger drivers are more likely to become impatient.

Some 44 percent of respondents said they had waited more than 15 seconds, due to drivers ahead failing to notice the lights going green. And 64 percent said they had been stuck for over 10 seconds.

Almost a fifth (17 percent) of those asked said inattentive drivers ahead regularly resulted in them not getting through a set of traffic lights.

Men were more likely to get frustrated, with 50 percent saying they get annoyed – compared to 41 percent of female respondents.

Smartphones to blame?

Close to three-quarters of drivers (72 percent) put the blame on drivers simply not paying attention. However, 40 percent believe the problem is caused by motorists illegally checking their phones at traffic lights.

RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: “While three seconds is obviously a very short time, anything longer than this can start to seem like an eternity when you desperately want to get through a set of traffic lights and the person in front is taking forever to get going. When you think that some lights only stay green for 15 seconds, this severely limits the number of vehicles that can get through before red comes up again, and this in turn makes jams – and potentially even air pollution – worse.

“The fact this is such a common issue means that too many drivers – for whatever reasons – clearly aren’t paying enough attention to what’s going around them when they’re stationary at traffic lights. As well as increasing journey times, this could have a road safety implication – particularly when people suddenly realise the lights have changed and then hurriedly pull away without properly checking their mirrors and making sure everything is clear around them.”

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