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Hot Wheels Brick Shop adds Honda legends to self-build model range

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A collaboration with Honda sees the Mattel Brick Shop Hot Wheels building sets sees the addition of the S2000 and Civic EF

The Brick Shop collaboration between Mattel and Hot Wheels now features two new Honda vehicles. 

Aimed at adult enthusiasts, the Brick Shop range consists of buildable scale models, similar to Lego. Each car is accompanied by a Hot Wheels die-cast replica.

The new collaboration with Honda sees two of the Japanese marque’s best-loved cars rendered in brick form.

Mattel’s Brick Shop models come in a variety of sizes and price points, with the latest two additions found in the entry-level 1:32-scale Speed Series lineup.

A retail price of £21.99 should ensure the 1990 Honda Civic EF and 2007 Honda S2000 appeal to a wide range of fans.

Car customisation included

Mattel Brick Shop Honda Models

Launched in 1999, the Honda S2000 paired a high-revving VTEC 2.0-litre engine with a rear-wheel-drive roadster body. 

Known for its engaging driving experience, including expressive handling and a precise six-speed manual gearbox, the S2000 quickly established itself as a Honda legend. 

Appearances in the Fast & Furious film franchise helped secure its significance among car tuning enthusiasts, too. 

The Mattel Hot Wheels Brick Shop S2000 continues this theme as, like other models in the range, enthusiasts can customise their model with decals and different wheel designs.

Opening doors are included as part of the kit, which has a total of 257 pieces – and includes a 1:64-scale Hot Wheels model of the S2000.

A miniature VTEC hero

Mattel Brick Shop Honda Models

Another new Honda in the Mattel Hot Wheels Brick Shop range is the Civic hatchback.

Produced for four years between 1987 and 1991, the fourth-generation ‘EF’ Civic became a hit with Honda enthusiasts

A 160hp ‘B16A’ 1.6-litre VTEC engine transformed the Civic into a scorching hot hatchback with an 8,000rpm redline.

Although the Brick Shop version cannot recreate the iconic VTEC wail, it does come with customisable features and opening doors. 

As with all Brick Shop models, a Hot Wheels signature metal plate is included for fitting to the base of the completed Civic, along with a 1:64-scale die-cast miniature.

‘True icons of Japanese performance

Mattel Brick Shop Honda Models

“Mattel Brick Shop continues to expand how adult fans and collectors interact with legendary vehicles,” said Ted Wu, global head of vehicles at Mattel. 

“The Honda Civic EF and S2000 are true icons of Japanese performance culture, and through Hot Wheels and Mattel Brick Shop, builders can now celebrate these vehicles by recreating them with their own customisation to display on their shelves.”

“Honda vehicles have long been celebrated for their performance, design and connection to car culture around the world,” added Rebecca Adamson of Honda UK. 

“Seeing icons like the Civic EF and S2000 reimagined through Mattel Brick Shop gives fans a new, hands-on way to engage with the engineering and spirit that define the Honda brand.”

Both the Honda Civic EF and S20000 Mattel Brick Shop models are available to purchase now.

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Motability says cheaper ‘slow’ charging is vital to boost EV uptake

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Plugging in a yellow electric car

A lack of lower-priced ‘slow’ EV chargers risks pushing up costs for electric car drivers, says new research from the Motability Scheme.

More than one in two drivers say the tariff or price per kWh is the key reason to choose a particular charger. Despite this, many drivers are having to rely on more expensive rapid and ultra-rapid chargers, even at times when a fast charge is unnecessary.

When questioned, only 27 percent of drivers said charger proximity was important, while just one in five said charging speed was key.

Gaps in local infrastructure are forcing drivers to use pricier EV chargers, says the Motability Scheme.

Its own data shows that 25 percent of charging sessions took place last year on cheaper, slower chargers, compared to 75 percent on expensive rapid and ultra-rapid devices.

The insights perhaps run counter to a common assumption that ultra-rapid chargers are vital – but this convenience comes at a cost, which is not something that everyone can afford.

Motability customers paid an average of 74p per kWh in 2025. Slow public chargers can cost up to 30p per kWh less than this, highlighting the scale of the potential savings for EV drivers.

Slow chargers needed close to homes

Acura Honda Tesla Superchargers

The Motability Scheme says many drivers lack slower, cheaper chargers close to where they live.

Those who don’t have home charging and want to use slow, more affordable public chargers rely on being able to leave their vehicle plugged in for longer periods.

However, in some parts of the UK, charge points can be far away – sometimes more than a 15-minute walk from home.

Contrast this with London, where more than four in five of households are within a five-minute walk from a public charger. Motability Scheme customers who live in the capital conducted nearly six in 10 charging sessions on money-saving slow chargers: the highest proportion in the UK.

‘Inspiring the next cohort of EV drivers will depend not just on interest in EVs, but on the experience people have once they use them,’ argues Motability.

‘While attitudes towards EVs remain stable, gaps in affordable, slow charging close to home are creating charging experiences that are often more expensive and less convenient than drivers expect. This is particularly detrimental for those without access to home charging.

‘Without the right infrastructure in place, it will be increasingly difficult to convert curiosity about EVs into confident, long-term uptake.’

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US hypercar firm Czinger opens new UK engineering base

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Czinger, the exciting US hypercar startup founded in 2021, is opening a new base in the UK as part of a ‘significant’ investment and expansion strategy.

The new facility is at the MIRA Tech Park in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. It will place Czinger directly alongside leading UK suppliers and powertrain experts – plus the famous Horiba MIRA automotive test track and development facilities.

Czinger will use MIRA to continue its work in ‘redefining how cars are designed and manufactured’. Further development of the radical Czinger 21C (pictured) is set to benefit from the UK expansion, along with forthcoming new models.

“Czinger is a global brand with a vision that transcends borders,” said founder, president and CEO of Czinger Vehicles, Lukas Czinger.

“We’re incredibly proud to have established our UK base of operations at MIRA Tech Park. This world-class facility provides us with the advanced infrastructure and collaborative ecosystem we need to push the boundaries of automotive innovation.

“Our presence here reinforces our commitment to building cutting-edge hypercars while contributing to the UK’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and automotive technology.”

‘A visionary and disruptive business’

Czinger chief engineer Ewan Baldry said being in the UK “allows us to work alongside leading technology partners and leverage world-class infrastructure to bring our next generation of vehicles to life faster and more efficiently”.

Jack Bartlett, head of commercial and partnerships at MIRA Tech Park, welcomed Czinger’s arrival, calling it “exactly the kind of visionary, disruptive business that thrives at MIRA Tech Park.

“Their investment reinforces the UK’s position as a global leader in powertrain and advanced mobility development – and underscores our role as the location of choice for the future of mobility.”

Czinger is working closely with Divergent Technologies, the Silicone Beach-based firm behind the world’s first fully integrated digital manufacturing system.

Its digital tech works up to four times faster than traditional methods, which Czinger is utilising to be ‘at the forefront of a new industrial paradigm… where design, performance and sustainability converge through innovation’.

Premium EV brand Polestar previously had a development base at MIRA Tech Park, too. Development of the new Polestar 5, which will be launched this year, was largely undertaken there.

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Smokin’! New Corvette ZR1X sets new quarter-mile benchmark

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Producing 1,250 horsepower, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X combines a mid-mounted V-8 engine and electric motor

The Corvette ZR1X is already the fastest and most powerful production example of Chevy’s iconic sports car built to date. 

However, Chevrolet now says its mid-engined machine offers the fastest way to cover a quarter-mile for less than one million dollars. 

It follows real-world performance testing at the US 131 Motorsports Park in Michigan, where the ZR1X made multiple runs on the specially prepared surface. 

The result was a quarter-mile time of just 8.675 seconds, with a terminal speed of 165 mph. This makes the Corvette ZR1X quicker than a host of multi-million-dollar hypercars.

During the same run, the ZR1X also achieved a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 1.68 seconds, generating a peak force of 1.75 G.

The all-American hypercar bargain

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Quarter Mile

The Corvette’s rapid sprint down the quarter-mile strip was not just a one-off event, as Chevrolet completed multiple back-to-back passes. Using the same vehicle, all runs were logged at less than 8.8 seconds.

Notably, the ZR1X has a standard engine – although in this case, ‘standard’ means 1,250 horsepower and 953 lb-ft of torque from the hybrid V-8

The twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter engine produces 1,064 horsepower on its own, with the electric motor driving the front axle adding a further 186 hp.

With electrified all-wheel drive, and the Corvette’s Custom Launch Control feature, nailing a quarter-mile time was made easy for Corvette development engineer and test driver, Stefan Frick.

“There are many different parts and subsystems on this car, with teams across the company responsible for them,” said Frick. “We were all motivated by the mission to break into the eights. This is a powerful example of the in-house skill at GM, and the level of performance we developed into this car.”

Made possible by being mid-engined

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Quarter Mile

The Corvette ZR1X’s record-breaking run was made using pump gasoline, along with standard Michelin PS4S tires mounted on optional carbon fiber wheels. 

Chevrolet did also test the ZR1X on an unprepared surface, resulting in a quarter-mile time of 8.99 seconds, with 0-60 mph taking 1.99 seconds. Even this puts the Corvette firmly amongst well-established supercar rivals.

“When we made the revolutionary shift to a mid-engine platform, this is the type of performance we knew was possible,” said General Motors president Mark Reuss.

Production of the Corvette ZR1X began last month, with a suggested retail price of $209,700. The company has also announced a ‘Stars & Steel Limited Edition’ model, made to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.

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Jensen is back with new Interceptor-inspired V8 luxury GT

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Based in Banbury, Jensen International Automotive currently specialises in restomod versions of the classic Interceptor

A svelte new British grand tourer will be revealed later this year, inspired by the classic Jensen Interceptor.

Although full details remain under wraps, Jensen International Automotive (JIA) has confirmed that its bespoke GT will feature V8 power

Based in Banbury, JIA currently specialises in restoring and enhancing the original Jensen Interceptor, even creating a supercharged version boosted by electric motors

However, the as-yet-unnamed new sports car will be the marque’s first clean-sheet design, based on an aluminium chassis, with the promise of ‘elegant yet striking contemporary’ styling.

It hopes to channel the spirit of the Jensen Interceptor, creating a ‘thoroughly modern take’ on the luxury British GT car.

Classic inspiration, modern engineering

Jensen International Automotive New GT

David Duerden, managing director of Jensen International Automotive, said: “Taking the theme of the luxury British GT to fresh, thoroughly modern heights, JIA’s first car is designed and engineered from the ground up to deliver an unmatched, deeply immersive, V8-powered driving experience. 

“While it takes inspiration from the Jensen Interceptor launched 60 years ago, this is certainly no ‘restomod’ or ‘continuation’. It will stand proudly as a completely all-new car in its own right.” 

JIA plans to hand-build the new vehicle in the UK, and in ‘ultra-low volumes’ only. 

Making use of its decades of experience in restoring and enhancing the original Interceptor, JIA will create a new division focused solely on the rapid development of the new GT.

Six decades of progress

Jensen International Automotive New GT

More details on the specification and design of the JIA GT will be released later this year, The car’s launch comes some six decades after the Jensen Interceptor first went into production. 

More than 6,400 examples of the Interceptor were manufactured between 1966 and 1976, in liftback, convertible and rare coupe body styles. 

However, the Interceptor’s biggest attraction was its all-American Chrysler engine. Originally offered with a 383-cubic inch (6.3-litre) V8, later models came with a gigantic 440-cubic inch (7.2-litre) motor delivering up to 385hp.

In his Retro Road Test of an Interceptor equipped with the 440-ci V8, our Tim Pitt said: “That engine is the main event. It rumbles like rolling thunder as two twin-barrel Weber carburettors gargle unleaded at a rate of 12.5 miles per gallon. It also pulls like an Amtrak train: effortless and knife-through-butter smooth.”

Hopefully we won’t have to wait long to see if JIA can channel the same big-block spirit into its new GT car.

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Home charge your EV for the equivalent of 350 miles per gallon

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The new Standard Variable Tariff for electricity rose to 27.69p/kWh on 1 January 2026, and applies to EV charging

Despite electricity price increases at the start of the new year, charging an EV at home can still offer significant savings compared to running a petrol car.

This is the view of home charging specialist Ohme, which says electric car owners can combat the latest price increases by using a smart energy tariff.

Current fuel prices mean petrol costs an average of £1.36 per litre – equivalent to £6.17 per gallon. Typically, a modern petrol car will be capable of covering 40 miles per gallon of fuel. 

Ohme notes that spending the same £6.17 via a smart charging energy tariff could power an electric car for up to 350 miles – the equivalent of 350mpg.

Smart charging can offset tariff increases

Ohme Home Charging Cost

Ohme uses the electric Audi A6 Avant E-tron as an example of how drivers can save money using smart tariffs, compared to the new electricity Standard Variable Tariff of 27.69p/kWh.

Although most EV drivers are unlikely to run their battery completely flat, recharging the Audi’s 75.8kWh battery from zero to 100 percent would cost £20.99 using the Standard Variable Tariff. 

However, using a dynamic electricity tariff such as Intelligent Octopus Go could cost £5.31 for the Audi’s full 361-mile range

“The idea of a car doing 350mpg would obviously be fanciful, but that could be the reality when charging your EV on a smart energy tariff at home,” said Ohme CEO David Watson. 

“Charging at home will always be the most affordable place for EV drivers to charge their cars, even with this latest rise. Changing to a smart electricity tariff will enable drivers to maximise those savings still further.”

Making the case for home charging

Ohme Home Charging Cost

Founded in 2017, Ohme is now the official UK home charging device provider for a range of vehicle manufacturers, including the Volkswagen Group, Mercedes-Benz, Genesis, Hyundai, Smart, Suzuki and XPeng.

Ohme is also the exclusive charger provider for customers who choose an electric vehicle through the Motability scheme.

Between September 2024 and April 2025, Ohme undertook its ‘Winter Crowdflex trial’, which encouraged drivers to plug in their EV to charge whenever they were at home. 

Taking part in the trial earned Ohme customers more than £400,000 in seven months, aided by smart charging capabilities. 

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Half of drivers risk damaging their car when de-icing

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Some 15 percent of drivers will leave their car running unattended to let it defrost, despite this potentially being illegal

British motorists risk damage to their vehicles through their winter morning habits, according to new research. 

A survey undertaken by online marketplace eBay found that almost half of UK drivers potentially cause problems thanks to how they remove ice from their car.

Nearly one in five drivers (19 percent) admitted they have used boiling hot water to clear ice from windows, despite the risk of this causing glass to crack.

An additional 30 percent said they use windscreen wipers to remove ice. This can damage wiper blades and the motors powering them.

The great freeze out

Defrosting windscreen maintenance

A substantial number of drivers (18 percent) said they were happy to leave their car running to let it defrost, with 15 percent saying they would get on with other tasks while their vehicle is unattended.

Under rule 123 of the Highway Code, leaving a car running and unattended is illegal, and can potentially result in a fine.

Just under a third (32 percent) of drivers said they would use an ice scraper to clear their windscreen, with de-icer spray favoured by 26 percent. 

Bank cards, paint scrapers and even CDs were some of the other options chosen by drivers in their battles with frozen windows.

Get prepared for winter conditions

Defrosting windscreen maintenance

Attitudes to de-icing differ between generations, with just over half (52 percent) of Gen-Z motorists saying they would fully defrost all windows before setting off on their journey. By contrast, 85 percent of older ‘Boomers’ would ensure every window was clear. 

Some 19 percent said they were unaware that it was illegal to drive with windows still covered in ice or snow, risking a further fine.

Abir Tewari, UK director of parts and accessories at eBay, said: “Following the first cold snap of the season, we’re seeing motorists use a range of methods to clear their windscreens – some more effective and safer than others. 

“It’s vital drivers prepare their vehicles properly for challenging winter conditions. That’s why eBay offers a wide selection of tried, tested and safe solutions to make cold mornings simpler and safer.”

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How and when to use your car fog lights

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UK drivers fog light knowledge

Driving in the winter months can be challenging, and fog often makes the dark mornings and evenings more dangerous. You therefore need to know how all the lights work on your car – including the fog lights.

When there is fog, you should have your headlights turned on. Many modern cars come with automatic headlights, which don’t always respond to foggy conditions. So you may need to switch them on manually.

The next consideration is whether to supplement your car’s headlights with fog lights.

What are car fog lights for?

How to use your fog lights

The answer to the question sounds obvious, but bear with us. Rear fog lights are indeed for use in foggy conditions. But more importantly, they are for the benefit of other drivers. Their intense red glow won’t assist your own vision.

Like your indicators, they are a sign to other drivers that visibility is limited. And, of course, an indication that you are nearby.

When should I turn my fog lights on?

Car fog lights switch

This is where things get hazy (so to speak) and it’s a subject of debate. Especially as inappropriate use of fog lights is a bugbear for many motorists.

Use the other cars around you as an indication of whether they are necessary. Look at the car 100 metres ahead and judge how visible it is. If you can see it clearly, fog lights aren’t needed. If the car is lost in the haze, with only glimmers of light to be seen, it’s definitely time to switch your fog lights on. 

This is especially important on the motorway, given how fast you and other cars around you are travelling. Frankly, if conditions are that bad, we’d hope speeds will be below the 70mph limit. As soon the fog clears, though, it’s important to switch your fog lights off again.

What if I leave my fog lights on?

How to use your fog lights

Fog lights have a very specific purpose. Using them when they’re not needed can dazzle other drivers, and even obscure other lights on your car. You don’t want the brake lights to be less visible because your rear fogs are outshining them.

It’s a legal issue, too. If the police see you driving with your fog lights on unnecessarily, a £50 on-the-spot fine could be issued.

How do I switch my fog lights on?

How to use your fog lights

By law, all cars built since 1986 must have at least one rear fog light. This will be operated using a switch with a symbol similar to that on the left-hand side in the photo above.

Front fog lights aren’t a legal requirement, but many cars have them fitted as standard. In most cars, they can be switched on using the same stalk as the headlights, or via a button on the dashboard.

The symbol for fog lights varies. If the wavy line is to the left of the lamp graphic, those are your front fog lights. If the wavy line is to the right (as above), this activates your rear fog lights.

You will often see a warning symbol on the dashboard that confirms the fog lights are on.

Other tips for driving in fog

How to use your fog lights

First of all, it’s usually beneficial not to use your main beam headlights. While it’s tempting to flick them on to give a better view, in thick fog it will cause reflections and reduce visibility even more.

Drive slowly, and leave a bigger gap to other vehicles in case they have to stop suddenly.

When you are stopped, for example at traffic lights, keep your foot on the brake pedal so your brake lights are lit up, making you more visible to other traffic. If a car stops behind you, though, use your handbrake and remove your foot from the brake pedal to avoid dazzling the other driver.

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Retro-inspired Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition launched

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The Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition will see customers pay just $710 more for the commemorative package

Jeep has revealed the latest model in its planned year-long birthday celebration, which commemorates 85 years of the legendary 4×4 brand.

A total of twelve new special-edition models will be launched throughout the year, as part of its “Twelve 4 Twelve” series, which will highlight everything Jeep can offer. 

The third vehicle to be announced for the series is the Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition, which combines retro-inspired design details with modern off-road technology.

It sees the 85th Anniversary Edition follow the Wrangler 392 launched in November 2025, and the new Wrangler Whitecap, revealed last month.

Most significantly, it gives Jeep fans the chance to own a 4×4 with nostalgic interior fabric.

An anniversary present worth checking out

Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition

The standout feature of the Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition are the exclusive plaid seat inserts, complete with bespoke seat tags. 

More plaid detailing can be found across the instrument panel, said to pay tribute to ‘Jeep Americana heritage’. There is also an 85th Anniversary gear shifter medallion and cupholder plaque, along with durable Berber floor and cargo mats.

Jeep has given the 85th Anniversary Edition package a host of exterior upgrades, too, with Steel Oxide-painted 17-inch wheels, bronze tow hooks, and Blue Agave 85th Anniversary badges. 

Buyers can add a body-colored hardtop and all-terrain tires from the factory, should they want to further personalize their Wrangler

Standard equipment includes an Alpine premium sound system, tinted windows, and a convenience package with heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and remote start with keyless entry.

Honoring the past for today’s adventures

Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition

Orders for the Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition can be placed now, with prices starting from $46,300 (excluding a $1,995 destination fee).

This means the new commemorative model costs only $710 more than a comparably equipped Wrangler Sport S.

“For 85 uninterrupted years, every Jeep vehicle has been built with purpose, designed first for capability, engineered for real world use and shaped by the needs of those who rely on it,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep brand CEO. 

“The Wrangler 85th Anniversary special edition reflects this enduring mindset, translating into thoughtful details and authentic design cues that honor the past while continuing to deliver confidence and capability for today’s adventures.”

Jeep will also offer the same 85th Anniversary package, complete with plaid seats, for the Gladiator truck

Prices for the celebratory version of the open-air pickup begin from $45,820, before the addition of the $1,995 destination charge.

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Ask the experts: 10 things every learner driver needs to know

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Learning to drive? Here are some easy-to-follow tips to pass your theory and practical tests, and stay safe on the road afterwards.

Learning to drive? If so, being fully prepared to take your test has never been more important. The average waiting time for a driving test in the UK is currently around 20 weeks. That means passing first time is crucial if you want to avoid waiting around for months between each attempt.

The UK’s largest pre-17 driving school, Young Driver, has delivered 1.6 million lessons to youngsters aged nine and upwards, helping them to establish their skills behind the wheel. Our Tim Pitt’s 14-year-old son Thomas was among them – read about his Young Driver experience here.

We asked a selection of Young Driver’s 430 government-approved instructors to share their best nuggets of advice for learner drivers. Their top 10 tips are revealed below.

Young Driver training

1. Learning to drive takes time

Everyone is different, and we all require a different number of driving lessons to be test-ready. It’s impossible for your instructor to predict at the start of your training how many lessons you will need. And yes, more lessons inevitably means greater expense, but damaging your car through a lack of experience could end up costing much more.

2. Book lessons before your 17th birthday

It might take a while to get a spot with the instructor you’d like to learn with. Research by Young Driver found two thirds of UK driving instructors have a waiting list – and some of these were longer than six months. Approach the person or driving school well in advance to see if you can reserve a place.

Young Driver training

3. Pay attention to the paperwork

Begin studying before you start your practical lessons and make sure you are actually absorbing what’s on the page or screen. The Highway Code is not just a boring bit of paperwork – you need this knowledge to become a good driver. Too many learners believe they can ‘wing’ the test and are surprised when they fail it. Sometimes, even if they do pass, they still don’t know enough detail to drive well, as their focus has been on passing the exam, not on understanding it.

Use an app such as Young Driver Theory & Practice to do mock exams and hazard perception tests on repeat. You can even watch a series of 360-degree virtual driving lesson videos to help build on practical experience.

4. Be patient with yourself

Focus on your own actions. The majority of mistakes made by students are because they rush to avoid delaying traffic behind them. Other drivers will have to adapt – everyone was a learner once, after all.

It’s important to realise how dangerous impatient or aggressive attitudes behind the wheel can be. As the poster says, keep calm and carry on.

Road rage

5. Learning may require lots of lessons

Everyone’s parent has a tale of how they only took five lessons to pass their test. That may be the case, but times change and everyone is different. The average is now 45 hours of lessons. Private practice will be key, so make sure you have a friend or family member who can take you out as often as possible.

You can also start learning before you’re 17 years old via schemes like Young Driver. This gives you the opportunity to learn the basics of changing gear, steering and braking from age nine, without the pressures of being on a real road. It’s a useful head-start that will hopefully reduce the number of lessons you need when you reach 17.

6. Don’t book a test before you’re ready

There is still a lengthy wait for driving tests in most regions across the UK. Your instructor can advise on how to secure a test, but our best advice is not to book a test before you’re ready. It’s a pointless exercise and only adds to the queues.

Traffic jam

7. Try to learn through observation

When you’re in a car with another driver, use that time to learn about driving through careful observation. For those who have spent every car journey prior to turning 17 with their eyes glued to a phone screen, it can be a struggle to read other traffic, especially at roundabouts and junctions. It’s easy to tell those who have taken an interest, as they pick up observation skills reasonably quickly.

8. Think twice before overtaking

You don’t need to overtake or push your way out, or rush to get through a traffic light. Even if a car in front is going slower than you’d like, you don’t have to overtake them. Don’t be pressured into taking risks behind the wheel. It’s just not worth it.

While you’re still learning, you’re building up the experience to learn how to judge such situations. But in general, always play it safe. Driving experience takes years to build up – and there is always more to learn. Also, even highly accomplished drivers can get it wrong, sometimes with disastrous consequences.

Learner driver L-plate

9. Be confident and challenge yourself

As a driver, you need to be able to make sensible decisions for yourself, which is very different to the risk-taking mentioned above. Working on your confidence so that you feel happy to make decisions behind the wheel is vital.

Occasionally, you might be pushed out of your comfort zone – by an emergency vehicle approaching at speed, for example. However, if you are not happy to take responsibility for your own actions, you are not ready to drive a car.

10. Don’t take your licence for granted

Congratulations, you have passed your test. The open road and a lifetime of driving freedom awaits. Always remember, though: a driving licence is a privilege, not a right. Treat it as such.

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