BYD will pay up if your self-driving car crashes itself

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June 1, 2026

BYD claims it is the world’s first car manufacturer to offer full liability coverage for its autonomous driving software

BYD has announced it will pay for damages caused, should one of its cars crash while using autonomous driving technology.

The question of who is liable for collisions involving vehicles in ‘self-driving’ modes is one of the biggest challenges for car companies when introducing autonomous functions.

With such a public vote of confidence in its own software, BYD becomes the world’s first carmaker to openly declare it will pick up the bill for crash damage, personal injury payouts and legal fees, should its autonomous technology be at fault.

For now, the offer of ‘full damage coverage’ only applies to vehicles in the company’s home Chinese market, and lasts for one year.

After that period, drivers will seemingly be on their own when it comes to any tech-related collisions.

Putting financial faith in technology

BYD’s autonomous technology is – rather ominously – known as ‘God’s Eye’ in the Chinese market. The full damage offer applies to those who upgrade to the latest version 5.0 of the software.

The guarantee covers drivers when making use of the God’s Eye Intelligent Parking assistance. This is classed as ‘Level 4’ autonomous driving software, and allows the BYD to park itself without the driver touching the steering wheel.

An automated valet parking mode even allows the driver to exit the vehicle, so the car can find a space and park itself autonomously.

The BYD coverage also applies to vehicles using its Urban Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) function, where the car makes its way through stop-and-go traffic, along with handling traffic lights and junctions.

Global real-world data analysis

According to BYD, the confidence in its technology comes from the sheer amount of driving data the company has collected. More than 3.15 million vehicles across the world use versions of its intelligent driving software.

This extends to a staggering 124 million miles driven every day by cars featuring God’s Eye technology. This supplies an almost endless source for BYD’s 5,000-strong team of development engineers to work on.

The backdrop to BYD backing its autonomous technology was the launch of its own purpose-made driving computer chip. Known as the Xuanji A3, it has been designed to support Level 3 and Level 4 self-driving capabilities.

At present, BYD does not have immediate plans to launch its full self-driving technology in the UK. Current government regulations limit vehicles to Level 2 autonomous functions for domestic use, although exemptions are available for specific research trials.

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Birmingham City Council fines itself £472,000 over Clean Air Zone

By

John Redfern

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June 1, 2026

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First introduced in June 2021, the Birmingham Clean Air Zone charges up to £50 for vehicles that do not meet its requirements

Birmingham City Council has issued fines totalling more than £470,000 to itself. The penalties are for breaching the rules of the city’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ), introduced in 2021.

Reporting by BBC News Midlands Investigates, and made available through its Shared Data Unit, uncovered the scale of non-compliance by the council with its own CAZ.

Since the Birmingham CAZ entered operation, council-owned vehicles have triggered 3,262 daily charges for entering the emissions-controlled zone.

This has resulted in total fines issued by Birmingham City Council to itself for a staggering £472,253.

As the BBC notes, this figure is ‘around 20 times the number paid by any other UK council running a CAZ, Low Emission Zone (LEZ) or Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)‘ where data is available.

Money paid in fines does not go back into the council’s general funds, but must go towards operational costs and government charges.

Birmingham racks up CAZ fines

The Birmingham CAZ covers the main area of the city centre inside the A4540 Middleway, but does not incorporate the Middleway itself.

It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year, and is classified as a ‘Category D’ CAZ.

This means the Birmingham CAZ applies to cars, buses, coaches, taxis and private hire vehicles, HGVs, vans and minibuses. Vehicles which do not meet Euro 4 exhaust emissions regulations for petrol engines, or the Euro 6 rules for diesels, have to pay a daily charge.

The cost for cars, taxis and light goods vehicles (small vans) is £8 per day. For heavy goods vehicles and coaches, the charge is £50 per day – unless a valid exemption is in place.

Failure to pay results in a fixed penalty notice of £120, which is reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

The BBC made use of the Environmental Information Regulations to establish the total cost of fines Birmingham City Council had paid since the CAZ went into operation.

However, this figure could not be broken down to demonstrate if it also included fines for late payment.

Non-compliant vehicles still on-fleet

Although Birmingham City Council has the ability to exempt certain vehicles from having to pay the CAZ, it noted that there were no exemptions ‘specifically for council vehicles or those used by its contractors’.

Figures supplied stated that one-in-eight vehicles used by the council still do not comply with the CAZ rules, despite the scheme being launched five years ago.

A council spokesperson told the BBC “only 142 (12 percent) of the 1,170 council-owned vehicles in its fleet, as of 31 March 2026, remained non-compliant with the CAZ requirements.”

The spokesperson added that a “large number of these vehicles were minibuses related to social services and education provision”, and that the council was now looking “to fast-track transition to a modernised, low emission fleet… driving efficiency, economy, safety and sustainability.”

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Lotus reveals lightest and most powerful Emira yet

By

John Redfern

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May 31, 2026

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Available to order now, with the first deliveries expected this August, UK prices for the Emira 420 Sport begin from £105,900

The most extreme road-going version of the Lotus Emira has been announced, bringing more power and lower weight to the party.

Now the flagship model in the range, the Lotus Emira 420 Sport will be the fastest-accelerating version of the mid-engined sports car to date.

As the Emira’s name suggests, the Mercedes-AMG 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine has been upped to deliver 420hp, combined with 369lb ft of torque.

This makes for a 20hp boost compared to the regular Turbo SE model, along with an extra 15lb ft of torque.

The result is 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds, with a potential top speed of 186mph. As with other turbocharged Emiras, an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard.

Added lightness included

Additional horsepower is not the only element in the Emira 420 Sport’s enhanced performance, with the addition of some classic Lotus chassis tuning, too.

For the 420 Sport, Lotus has lowered the Emira by 5mm, and fitted revised suspension settings plus high-performance tyres.

An optional Lightweight Handling Pack includes two-way adjustable Multimatic suspension dampers, a titanium exhaust, lithium-ion battery, and carbon fibre components.

These measures see the kerb weight of the Lotus Emira reduced by 25kg compared to the regular Turbo model, with an extra 25kg in downforce also generated.

Colin Chapman would approve.

Other exterior changes include a new front splitter, amended front vents, larger side skills and a louvered engine cover. These updates help channel 15 percent more air to the outboard radiators, and increase brake cooling by 10 percent.

These are small changes which Lotus believes should aid the track driving experience of the Emira 420 Sport, whilst also said to reference the classic Esprit Turbo.

Available to order now

Buyers will also be able to add an optional carbon fibre exterior package, with the front splitter, side sills, wheel arch vents, rear spoiler and diffuser all made from the lightweight material.

Some 16 paint colours will be available at launch, including the Emira 420 Sport’s signature Tangelo Orange unique to the new model. This hue can also be used to highlight the interior with the optional Hand Painted Pack, or swapped for subtler carbon fibre trim.

New for the 420 Sport, and the entire Lotus Emira range, is a removable tinted glass roof targa panel. It comes with a protective bag, and is designed to be stored behind the seats when in open-top configuration.

Prices in the UK for the Emira 420 Sport will begin from £105,900, with orders able to be placed now. Lotus expects to deliver the first completed cars from August 2026 onwards.

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Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram celebrate America’s 250th birthday

By

John Redfern

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May 29, 2026

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Featuring photography by Platon, the Auburn Hills artwork covers ten floors and measures more than 15,293 square feet

The US headquarters of the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram brands have undergone a dramatic makeover as America’s 250th birthday approaches.

Ahead of the United States Semiquincentennial on July 4 2026, the Stellantis conglomerate has wrapped its office in Auburn Hills, MI, with a gigantic artwork from famed photographer, Platon.

The America250 artwork covers ten floors of the company’s headquarters building, and measures more than 15,293 square feet, making this a literally huge commemoration of the nation’s big anniversary.

It comes as each of the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram brands will play a key part in the America250 celebrations, including a host of bespoke models and special editions.

Fueled by purpose and passion

“From city streets to open highways to off-road trails, America and its people have fueled Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram with purpose, passion and possibility,” said Olivier Francois, global CMO, Stellantis.

“As we celebrate this historic milestone with America250, this installation by acclaimed photographer Platon at our U.S. headquarters stands as a tribute to the spirit of a nation and the people who inspire everything we create.”

Earlier this month, Jeep revealed the latest in its “Twelve 4 Twelve” range of special edition products for 2026, with the Wrangler America250 model.

Developed in collaboration with Marvel, the Wrangler America250 combines Bright White paintwork with patriotic body stripes and bespoke exterior badging.

However, the biggest draw is likely to be the Jeep Wrangler America250’s spare wheel cover, which has been designed to resemble the shield used by Marvel’s Captain America character.

Patriotic options across the range

Ensuring Jeep delivered on anniversary celebrations was important, with the marque recently recognized as the ‘Most Patriotic Brand’ for the 24th consecutive year by Americans.

However, other brands have got in on the act, driven by a partnership with America250, the nonpartisan organisation charged with delivering the enormous 250th birthday party.

Chrysler revealed its own Semiquincentennial model at the start of May 2026, with the America250 version of the Pacifica minivan.

Available in Red Hot, Bright White and Hydro Blue exterior colors, the America250 package features US flag decals and America250 badges on the front doors, along with additional star decals on the Pacifica’s bodywork.

‘Iconic American brands’ playing a key role

The Dodge Durango GT has also received the America250 treatment, again favoring red, white, and blue paintwork, combined with body body stripes and patriotic interior detailing.

Ram has repeated the theme for the 1500 America250 special-edition pickup trucks, letting customers choose from Molten Red Pearl-Coat, Hydro Blue Pearl-Coat or Bright White Clear-Coat.

Offered in 1500 Big Horn, Laramie and Rebel trim, satin black American flag hood graphics, and American flag bedside details, will demark these trucks as celebratory Semiquincentennial models.

“Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram are among the most iconic American brands and will be key partners in helping America250 literally drive our programs and mission forward,” said Rosie Rios, chair of America250.

“As we commemorate 250 years of our nation’s journey, this partnership represents the power of collaboration between the public and private sectors to engage communities across the country and around the world in meaningful and inspiring ways.”

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Alfa Romeo Junior EV now comes with £1,500 government discount

By

John Redfern

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May 29, 2026

0

With the Electric Car Grant applied, prices for the Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica now begin at £30,900 for the entry level version

The Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica SUV has qualified for the government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) scheme, bringing savings on the purchase price.

Being eligible for Band 1 of the ECG means that the Polish-made electric compact crossover receives a discount of £1,500 from the list price.

Three versions of the Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica gain access to the ECG, although the high-performance 280hp Veloce version is too expensive to qualify.

The Italian marque also offers its own £1,500 ‘Alfa Romeo EV Grant’, which can be used in conjunction with the government’s scheme.

As a result, a maximum discount of £3,000 means that the entry-level Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica model now costs just £30,900.

Lower prices, same Alfa Romeo specification

In entry-level form, the now £30,900 Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica combines a 156hp motor with a 54kWh battery pack.

This gives the potential for an official WLTP range of up to 256 miles, with rapid-charging capabilities seeing the Junior Elettrica need less than 30 minutes to go from 20 to 80 percent charge.

All versions of the Junior come with LED headlights, ambient interior lighting, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless smartphone connectivity.

Opting for the Junior Elettrica TI retains the same powertrain, but adds features such as satellite navigation, aluminium pedals, and Premium Spiga Electric seats.

With the respective ECG discount and Alfa’s own grant applied, this electric SUV now costs £33,400.

Lowering the total cost of ownership

Topping the range of Junior Elettrica models eligible for the ECG is the Sport Speciale version, which also makes use of the 156hp powertrain setup.

A gloss black bodykit with silver inserts, an Alcantara steering wheel, heated seats clad in Alcantara upholstery, and bespoke exterior badging are all included.

As the sportiest version of the Junior Elettrica, excluding the flagship 280hp Veloce, prices for the Sport Speciale now start from £36,100.

All versions of the Junior Elettrica come with an eight-year / 100,000-mile warranty for the high-voltage powertrain and battery. This guarantees that the battery pack will retain 70 percent of its charging capacity throughout the warranty period.

The company has also launched its own Total Cost of Ownership calculator, allowing buyers to compare the difference between petrol and battery models.

For those who still need to be convinced, Alfa Romeo is also offering 24-hour test drives of the Junior Elettrica.

Will the Alfa Romeo Junior’s eligibility for the Electric Car Grant encourage the Alfitsi to consider an EV? Let us know in the comments!

London Concours to celebrate rare Porsches and more for 2026

By

John Redfern

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May 29, 2026

0

Porsche Perfection will be the highlight of the opening day, featuring bespoke examples of Stuttgart’s finest sports cars

The 2026 edition of the London Concours show is less than two weeks away, with a host of incredible vehicles ready for the event in the heart of the capital.

Hosted on the manicured lawns of the Honourable Artillery Company, London Concours is described as a ‘luxurious automotive garden party’ taking place right in the centre of the Square Mile.

The event begins on Tuesday 9 June, and continues through to Thursday 11 June.

For this year’s show, London Concours will celebrate everything Porsche, the history of the Jaguar XK lineage, and the now-traditional ‘Supercar Day’ to honour the wildest cars to ever hit the road.

Along with the huge display of horsepower, London Concours boasts it is also packed with upmarket food and drink options – and will see a live recording of the Smith & Sniff Podcast on Tuesday 9 June.

Hypercars to All-American heroes

First held in 2017, London Concours has become a highlight of the annual automotive calendar, bringing an eclectic array of ultra-rare cars to an urban environment.

This year’s event will feature nine different classes of vehicles on show, spanning the breadth of car culture and enthusiasm.

The American Muscle category will feature some of the wildest big-block powered creations from across the Atlantic, including a 1970 Plymouth Superbird, 1969 Shelby Mustang GT350, and the all-important 1965 Pontiac GTO.

Alfa Romeo will gain special attention for the 2026 edition of the London Concours event, seeing everything from a 1932 8C Tourer to a 2022 Giulia Quadrifoglio taking to the turf.

Tuned cars from the likes of Hartge and Koenig will star in ‘The Tuners’ category, with hypercars from McLaren, Bugatti and Lamborghini likely to be some of the most attention-grabbing exhibits.

One of the rarest Porsche models ever made

With London Concours putting a major emphasis on Porsche for its opening day, the ‘Porsche Sonderwunsch’ class will bring together some of the rarest cars to emerge from Zuffenhausen.

Porsche’s Sonderwunsch (Special Request) programme exists to give customers the ultimate in personalisation, crafting bespoke vehicles to meet exacting demands.

Included in the Porsche Sonderwunsch class at London Concours will be a Grand Prix White example of the 964 Turbo S Leichtbau, created as an even more extreme version of the 964-generation Porsche 911 Turbo.

Just 86 cars were made, with only 11 built in right-hand drive for the UK market. Changes included shaving 180kg from the weight of a standard 911 Turbo, achieved through the use of reduced sound insulation and thinner glass.

Andrew Evans, MD of Thorough Events said: “The Porsche 964 Turbo S Leichtbau is exactly the sort of car that makes the Porsche Sonderwunsch class so special.

“It’s exceptionally rare, highly innovative for its era and represents Porsche at its most focused and uncompromising.

“We’re delighted to be working with Boxengasse this year to showcase some of the most exclusive and fascinating Porsches ever created.”

Tickets for London Concours still available

Tickets for the 2026 London Concours are still available to purchase for all three days, with multiple different options for attending.

Full-day tickets cost £65, with half-day access priced at £45, and evening tickets just £35, aimed at those attending after finishing work in the Square Mile.

Children and students can purchase reduced-price tickets, too.

Club Concours hospitality tickets can be purchased for Tuesday 9 June and Wednesday 10 June, costing £370 per person. This includes morning coffee and pastries on arrival, a Veuve Clicquot Champagne drinks reception, an open bar, ‘al fresco’ lunch and an afternoon cream tea.

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Best motoring events for car fans in 2026

By

Motoring Research team

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May 29, 2026

1

Festival of the Unexceptional by Matthew Pitts

2026 is shaping up to be a classic year for car enthusiasts, with a huge number of motoring events to attend.

We’ve researched some of the UK’s biggest and best car shows and motorsport events, making sure we include something for everyone.

Dive in to see what the year has in store – and be sure to let us know below if you’re planning to attend any… perhaps see you there?

2026 MOTORING EVENTS

June 2026

9-11 June: London Concours, Honourable Artillery Company, City of London

10-14 June: Le Mans 24 Hours, France

19-21 June: Concours des Legendes at Wilton House, Salisbury

20-21 June: Icons of Porsche, Sunstede Silverstone Edition

A festival dedicated to Porsche, to mark 75 years of the brand in the UK. It will be hosted at the Porsche Experience Centre Silverstone and will include demonstrations of Porsche race and road cars on the Silverstone Grand Prix circuit. You can buy tickets here.

27-28 June: Heveningham Concours, Suffolk

28 June: Ford Nationals, British Motor Museum

July 2026

3-5 July: British Grand Prix

5 July: National Metro & Mini Show, British Motor Museum

8 July: RAC Club Concours, Woodcote Park

9 July: Hagerty Hangout at Bicester Motion

10-12 July: Summer Nationals, Santa Pod

9-12 July: Goodwood Festival of Speed

12 July: BMC & Leyland Day, British Motor Museum

18-19 July: Classic Nostalgia at Shelsley Walsh

22 July: Classics on the Common, Harpenden

25 July: Festival of the Unexceptional

25-26 July: Silverstone Classic

August 2026

3 August: Megaphonics 26, Boxengasse Bicester

8 August: Pistonheads Annual Service, Bicester Motion

23 August: Italian Car Day at Carlton Towers

September 2026

2-6 September: Salon Privé

4-6 September: Concours of Elegance, Hampton Court Palace

6 September: John Haynes Classic Motor Show, Haynes Motor Museum

10 September: Hagerty Hangout at Bicester Motion

12-13 September: Beaulieu Autojumble

18-20 September: Goodwood Revival

October 2026

4 October: Sunday Scramble, Bicester Motion

11 October: Motorsports Day at Brooklands

November 2026

1 November: London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

13-15 November: Classic Motor Show

The 2026 events that have already happened

Look back at the 2026 events calendar so far… which of the below events will be on your radar for 2027?

20-22 February: Race Retro

For many enthusiasts, Race Retro marks the start of the annual events calendar. This year, there’s live action from 120 rally cars, historic race exhibits, celebrity motorsport talks and more. There’s also a flagship auction on Saturday 21st February, with cars once owned by Richard Hammond, Richard Hamilton and even King Charles II!

20-22 March: Classic Car & Restoration Show

Rustic gems, resto projects and pristine classics is the promise of the NEC Classic Car & Restoration Show. Over 1,300 classics are expected, from 160 car clubs, and more than 230 cars will be on sale, too. Meet star experts including Derek Mathewson, Mike Brewer, Paul Cowland, Sheldon Nichols, Steph Holloway and more.

28 March: AUTOBEST Conquest Live Show

This is something all-new for 2026. AUTOBEST, the largest independent automotive awards jury in Europe, is holding its first live AUTOBEST Conquest event on 28 March – where the 2026 winner will be revealed. You can vote now from the six finalists… Motoring Research director and UK juror Richard Aucock has already cast his vote. Tune in on the night to find out which of the six will be crowned AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2026.

11 April: Food & Fuel, Bicester Motion

12 April: GTI Spring Festival, Santa Pod

16-18 April: Salon Privé London

18 April: Pride of Longbridge, Cofton Park, Longbridge

18 April: Rustival, British Motor Museum

18-19 April: Classic Car Boot Sale Kings Cross

18-19 April: BTCC 2026 season-opener, Donington Park

Motoring Research will be at Donington for the 2026 curtain-raiser. If you can’t make it, you can watch every BTCC race in 2026 LIVE on ITV4.

26 April: DRIVE IT DAY 2026

26 April: Sunday Scramble, Bicester Motion

A gathering of people around vintage cars in front of brick buildings surrounded by trees, featuring a prominent red car in the foreground.

The April event will celebrate the vee engine, with displays of both road and race cars, while Hangar 113 will mark a century of the Bicester Technical Site. A pioneering aircraft will be flanked by period cars.

26 April: Ultimate BMW Meet, British Motor Museum

1-3 May: Donington Historic Festival

2 May: Auto Italia Italian Car Day at Brooklands

2-3 May: Gaydon Land Rover Show, British Motor Museum

9 May: Prescott Italia at Prescott Hillclimb

9 May: London to Brighton Runs, Brooklands Museum to Brighton

10 May: British Mini Day, Himley Hall

12 May: Jap Show, Santa Pod

14-17 May: Nurburgring 24 Hours

The Red Bull livery for the Verstappen Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo was launched with a spectacular BASE jump stunt

See Max Verstappen race a Mercedes-AMG!

21 May: Hagerty Hangout at Bicester Motion

25 May: Best of British Day, Brooklands

31 May: Wheeler Dealer Live, Bicester Motion

6-7 June: Coventry MotoFest Classic, Coventry City Centre

Pub where Ineos Grenadier was born is now a World Origin Site

By

John Redfern

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May 28, 2026

0

The Grenadier pub in Belgravia has been recognised with World Origin Site status, for its pivotal role in the creation of the Ineos Grenadier.

Said to be the favourite pub of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Grenadier was where the Ineos founder formulated his idea for a purpose-built 4×4.

This even extended to Sir Jim and his 4×4 enthusiast friends creating an initial design sketch for what became the Grenadier on the back of a £5 banknote. The all-important fiver was then pinned to the ceiling of the London pub.

Thanks to its significant role in bringing the Ineos Grenadier into being, the pub which gave the utilitarian 4×4 its name has received accreditation from the World Origin Site organisation.

Claiming a place in history

Conferring World Origin Site status on the Grenadier puts the pub among a host of other important locations around the globe.

Accreditation as a World Origin Site requires a nomination supported by expert information, demonstraing that a location was undoubtedly the first place an idea, product or even a performing arts group began.

Previously accredited locations have included the Jacaranda Club in Liverpool, where The Beatles gave their first performance.

Brooklands race circuit was also recognised as a World Origin Site, for being the world’s first purpose-built banked motor racing venue.

A bespoke plaque, cast in solid aluminium, is used to highlight World Origin Site locations, with one now attached to an outside wall of the Grenadier.

From pub discussion to ‘global phenomenon’

The origin of the Ineos Grenadier has not been without controversy, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe initially saying that the new 4×4 would be manufactured at Bridgend in Wales.

However, Ineos later purchased the former Smart factory in France, claiming the location would give it better access to global markets and supply chains.

Since entering production in October 2020, Ineos has delivered 36,000 examples of the Land Rover Defender-inspired 4×4.

Earlier this year, the company announced a host of upgrades for the Grenadier, aimed at addressing previous areas of criticism. A special Black Edition model was also added to the lineup.

Lynn Calder, CEO of Ineos Automotive, said: “The Grenadier is a unique, purpose-built vehicle with an equally unique story behind it. What started as an idea among 4×4 enthusiasts in their favourite London pub has become a global phenomenon for those who seek adventure and the road less travelled.

“This recognition of its origins is a fitting celebration of the incredible story behind this brand.”

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Hay fever has made 1 in 3 drivers close their eyes at the wheel

By

John Redfern

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May 28, 2026

0

June is cited as being the worst month for those with hay fever allergies, followed by May and July

Although some may have enjoyed the recent heatwave, those with hay fever have been suffering as their allergies approach their peak.

Along with having to handle the unpleasant symptoms like itchy eyes and a runny nose, hay fever sufferers can also find themselves at risk when driving.

Research commissioned by Volvo conducted a survey of 2,000 drivers in the UK who have hay fever, with nearly four-in-five (79 percent) respondents saying their allergy symptoms impacts their ability to drive safely to some degree.

More than one-in-ten (13 percent) motorists admitted they had been subject to a hay fever-induced sneezing fit so violent, that it had resulted in them having to take both hands off the steering wheel.

Almost one-third (31 percent) said that hay fever had forced them to close their eyes when driving, creating an obvious safety risk.

Younger drivers most affected by hay fever

Despite the impact of hay fever, some 13 percent of respondents said that they continued to drive, even when their symptoms were at their worst. This increased to 9 percent for motorists in the 25 to 34 year-old age bracket.

Of greatest concern was the fact that 4.9 percent of drivers surveyed said they have experienced a near miss caused or worsened by hay fever symptoms.

If extrapolated, this would equate to an estimated 535,000 motorists across the UK.

Younger drivers appear to be more severely affected by hay fever, with 9.4 percent of drivers aged 25–44 report hay fever-related near misses.

This is around five times higher than those in the over-65 age bracket, where only 1.8 percent admitted the same.

Peak pollen season is almost here

A secondary impact for hay fever sufferers is the effect of antihistamine medication. One-in five- of the drivers (18 percent) surveyed say they have felt sleepy or less alert after taking hay fever treatments.

Volvo’s research highlighted that June was the worst month for hay fever, causing peak symptoms for 29 percent of respondents. This was followed by May, at 22 percent, and July affecting 19 percent.

The suggestion from the Swedish marque to help cope with hay fever is to pick one of its latest models. Three- or four-zone climate control systems on the EX90, ES90, and forthcoming EX60 include air purification filters as standard.

These are capable of removing 99.9 percent of grass, tree and pollen allergens from the air reaching the cabin.

Nicole Melillo Shaw, MD of Volvo Car UK, said: “Many drivers associate hay fever with discomfort or inconvenience, but these findings suggest the safety implications are being underestimated.

“As we enter peak pollen season, motorists should think carefully about how they manage symptoms before driving and take steps to maintain a comfortable cabin environment when behind the wheel.

“Fortunately, our vehicles offer excellent cabin filtration systems which significantly reduce the amount of pollen allergens that enter the vehicles.”

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Hot Wheels is searching for the Tiniest F1 Team Principal

By

John Redfern

-

May 28, 2026

0

In order to be the Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal, entrants will need to submit a video entry on TikTok or Instagram

If your child believes they could be the next Toto Wolff or Mattia Binotto, Hot Wheels wants them to become the Tiniest Team Principal.

The first-ever Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal will be a global competition, aimed at children aged between five and ten-years old, who have a passion for all things Formula 1.

One Tiniest Team Principal each from the United States, United Kingdom and Mexico will be chosen and flown with their families to the Hot Wheels headquarters in El Segundo, California.

Once in California, the final contenders will be put through their paces to demonstrate they can design their very own Hot Wheels F1 die-cast car, and become a global ambassador for the sport.

Prove your child loves everything F1

In order to be in with a chance of winning the Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal, children will need to star in a video demonstrating their love and knowledge of all things Hot Wheels and Formula 1.

There are no strict rules for what the video should include, but Hot Wheels says submissions could cover custom trackset builds, race predictions, original livery designs, or even just a passionate explanation of how they would run a Formula 1 team.

Parents will then need to upload the video to TikTok or Instagram, featuring the official Hot Wheels social media tag (@HotWheelsOfficial on Instagram or @HotWheels on TikTok). Hashtags #HotWheelsTiniestTeam and #Contest must also be included.

Entries can be made now, with the competition set to run until Tuesday 16 June 2026.

The respective winners for the United States, United Kingdom and Mexico regions will then be chosen on Tuesday 23 June 2026.

An incredible F1 opportunity

Hot Wheels has picked an impressive judging lineup for the Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal.

The panel includes Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1, Ted Wu, general manager and head of vehicles and building sets at Mattel, Hot Wheels designer Kristina Albrecht, and 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, Jenson Button.

Amongst the range of prizes will be an all-expensed paid trip to a Formula 1 Grand Prix including behind-the-scenes access, custom Hot Wheels merchandise, and the full Hot Wheels F1 product range.

Most significant of all will be the chance to work with Hot Wheels designers to create a one-of-a-kind Hot Wheels F1 car, and help shape future liveries.

Jenson Button said: “In Formula 1, the difference between winning and losing can come down to one decision.

“Kids make those kinds of calls every time they play with Hot Wheels. I know the Hot Wheels Tiniest Team Principal will keep the rest of the Paddock on their toes.”

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