How to use your car’s life-saving emergency eCall system

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September 22, 2025

Many drivers are unaware of the vital emergency call (eCall) system that is fitted to new cars in the UK.

The technology is mandatory for all cars made from April 2018 onwards. And for a good reason: it could potentially save your life following a serious collision.

National Highways joined forces with car manufacturers and road safety groups to raise awareness of the eCall feature, which is now found in millions of vehicles throughout the UK.

What is a car eCall button?

Introduced under EU legislation in April 2018, the idea for eCall was first mooted in the late 1990s. Similar technology already existed in North America, including the OnStar system fitted to General Motors vehicles.

The eCall system is designed to alert the emergency services to a serious incident that has triggered the vehicle’s airbags.

Sensors automatically send the GPS location of a car to an emergency operator, allowing it to be located easily after a crash. Microphones allow the driver and passengers to speak with a responder without needing to use a mobile phone.

How do I use a car eCall button?

After a serious collision, the eCall system will operate automatically. However, it can also be activated manually to summon help. National Highways gives examples of when it could be used, such as:

Having stopped in live traffic on a motorway
Not being able to exit your car safely
Coming across another vehicle in need of assistance
Experiencing a medical emergency while driving
Noticing a potential hazard in the road

Modern eCall systems include an ‘SOS’ button, typically mounted at the top of the windscreen. Some vehicles have this button on the steering wheel instead.

This can be pressed by the driver or passenger, connecting them directly to emergency services operators. The circumstances of the incident can then be explained, with the appropriate response sent directly to the vehicle’s location.

Check if your car has eCall

Despite the low level of awareness, National Highways says proper use of eCall has increased over time. In 2020, correct calls were made 22 percent of the time, but this had risen to 59 percent by 2022.

By the end of this year, it is predicted that more than 12 million vehicles on UK roads will have the system fitted.

Mel Clarke of National Highways said: “The emergency call (eCall) system and its SOS button could save lives and revolutionise incident response on the roads, yet our research shows that most people do not know about it. I urge drivers to check if they have this safety feature installed, particularly if your vehicle was manufactured since April 2018, and to follow our advice about how and when to use it.”

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1 in 3 Brits now more likely to buy an EV thanks to Electric Car Grant

By

Richard Aucock

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September 19, 2025

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More than one in three British car buyers say they are more likely to switch to electric following the introduction of the Electric Car Grant (ECG).

For Londoners, the figure is even higher, with 55 percent saying they are now more likely to buy an EV.

The government-funded savings are particularly appealing to those aged 17-34; a hefty 85 percent of them feel more likely to switch into an EV in the next two years, according to the research by Renault.

By contrast, just 27 percent of those aged over 55 said they were likely to buy an EV in the next couple of years. Their concerns included range, the number of charging points and car prices.

Surprisingly, the survey also showed that just 46 percent of women say they are very likely to buy an EV within the next two years, compared to 63 percent of men.

The Electric Car Grant provides savings of up to £3,750 on a new EV, with every Renault eligible for a £1,500 saving.

Plato and the ‘rnlt‘ store

The survey came as Renault opened a new store called ‘rnlt’ at Battersea Power Station. The concept store showcases the latest Renault EVs, and retails a dazzling array of merchandise.

BTCC legend and former Renault racer Jason Plato was on hand to help open the new store. “I believe that education is key to accelerating interest in electric car buying,” said Plato.

“While we have to respect people’s concerns, many of them are looking outdated as some of the latest cars to be launched offer incredible technology at great value, including long battery range and running costs that mean they can be much cheaper to own over their lifetime than a car with an engine.”

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E electric supercar concept was also on hand for the rnlt store’s opening. It will remain in place until 21 September.

Renault Electric Car Grant savings

Here are the prices of Renault’s electric vehicles following a deduction of the ECG:

Renault 5 – from £21,495
Renault 4 – from £25,495
Renault Megane – from £30,995
Renault Scenic – from £35,495

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Diesel shock: market share plunges 87 percent in a decade

By

John Redfern

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September 19, 2025

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Demand for diesel-powered cars is running on fumes, according to DVLA data. Cars fuelled by the black pump accounted for just six percent of new registrations in 2024.

It marks a dramatic fall in the decade since the ‘Dieselgate’ scandal rocked the automotive world, leaving consumers with a legacy of mistrust.

The data reveals that diesel’s share of the new car market has dropped by 87 percent since 2015, when it accounted for nearly half (48 percent) of registrations.

Changes to Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) rules, the banning of older diesel models from city centres, and the rise of electric vehicles are all said to have contributed to derv’s demise.

Diesel heading towards extinction

Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, said: “Once the default choice for company cars thanks to favourable tax breaks, diesels have now been overtaken by EVs, with even stronger incentives encouraging fleets to go electric.

“This, combined with increasing cost, improvements in hybrid tech and the looming 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel sales, mean forecasts suggest diesels will make up just two percent of the market – one in 50 cars – by 2028.”

Diesel’s market share is expected to account for five percent of registrations during 2025 and 2026, before falling away further.

In a survey of UK drivers, Auto Express found that 43 percent blamed Dieselgate for damaging their ‘trust in the industry’, and put them off buying a diesel car again.

Diesels still holding their value

For those who do still want a diesel, the scarcity of new options makes choosing a car more difficult. Since 2015, the number of new diesel cars available to buy has plummeted by almost two thirds (62 percent), from 240 models to 91 in 2025.

In spite of falling demand, residual values for diesel-powered cars remain competitive. Data from Cox Automotive shows that diesels retain 51 percent of their value after two-to-four years – not too dissimilar to hybrid cars (53 percent) and petrol models (58 percent).

By comparison, new electric cars hold onto only 36 percent of their original value after the same time period.

“While sales are dwindling, strong used values show there is still demand, but the writing is clearly on the wall,” added Paul Barker. “The big question now is whether diesel continues to fade gradually or if legislation will further accelerate its demise.”

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Lexus Glam LX is an SUV with a built-in wardrobe and nail salon

By

John Redfern

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September 18, 2025

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Lexus has revealed a radical concept version of its LX luxury SUV. The Glam LX allows its occupants to get red-carpet-ready while on the move.

A collaboration with Texas-based Complete Customs led to the bespoke Lexus LX, intended “for those who treat getting ready as an experience all its own”.

The SUV’s makeover began with a dramatic ‘Pearl Symphony Chameleon’ exterior wrap, complemented by a pink Lexus grille badge inlaid with crystal.

There is no shortage of glamor inside the LX, either. The stitched pink and white leather interior features luxurious materials such as mohair, silk and stone inlays.

Red carpet on the road

Complete Customs has done much more than simply add a bright pink wrap and a fancy interior, though.

A comprehensive build has converted the trunk to open via “French doors”. Inside, there is a complete dressing suite with twin Robern illuminated mirrors.

There is also an LED-lit clothing rack, a pair of pull-out chairs, and – thankfully – a retractable privacy screen for the changing area.

The front passenger seat has been transformed into a mobile nail salon, fitted with a UV/LED light to ensure there are no worries about drying time.

In the second row, stone-inlaid tables, a halo-lit skylight, and a custom full-width Robern illuminated mirror all help with precise makeup application.

New storage compartments have been added throughout the Glam LX. Examples include a special holder for hairdryers and straighteners, a refrigerated makeup console, and an LED-lit handbag compartment.

Self-expression in an SUV

Lexus is keen to stress that the Glam LX has been modified with parts that would invalidate the standard vehicle’s warranty – and that it only represents a concept expression of the premium SUV.

Lisa McQueen, senior manager for marketing at Lexus, said: “The Glam LX celebrates the latest chapter of Lexus, one that goes beyond comfort and craftsmanship to connect with our guests’ passions and desire for self-expression. It’s a bold statement of Lexus design and innovation applied in a completely unexpected way.”

Lexus plans to demonstrate the Glam LX at selected events during the forthcoming year, giving fans the chance to have a full fashion makeover experience.

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New Dacia Duster Cargo: budget van to cost from £22,995

By

John Redfern

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September 18, 2025

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Dacia has revealed details of the new Duster Cargo: a van version of its award-winning mid-size SUV.

The Duster Cargo is a complete factory conversion, built by Dacia technicians alongside the regular SUV models.

As such, the standard three-year, 60,000-mile manufacturer warranty remains intact. Customers can also take advantage of the Dacia Zen offer, which adds an extra year of cover each time you book an annual service at a Dacia dealership.

Following this schedule, owners can potentially extend the Duster Cargo’s warranty up to seven years or 75,000 miles.

A Duster for deliveries

The conversion from family SUV to Cargo sees Dacia technicians replace the Duster’s rear seats with a flat wooden floor, which is trimmed in a durable material.

A mesh bulkhead is fitted to keep the load area separate from the front seats, with four lashing points to make cargo secure. There is also a full-length removable load cover, with the fixed rear windows heavily tinted for extra security.

On the outside, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and Y-shaped LED lights are fitted as standard, meaning the Duster Cargo looks almost indistinguishable from the SUV.

Measuring cargo space to the roof, and utilising the underfloor area, the Duster Cargo provides up to 1,149 litres of useful space, along with a payload of 430kg.

By comparison, the previous-generation Dacia Duster Commercial offered up to 1,603 litres.

Customers have a choice of two electrified petrol engines, starting with a 130hp mild-hybrid 1.2-litre turbo. This comes equipped with all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox.

Dacia’s newly launched 1.8-litre full hybrid is also available, offering a punchier 155hp and up to 59mpg.

Strong levels of equipment

Standard equipment for the Duster Cargo includes electric windows, air conditioning, a 7.0-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Cruise control with a speed-limiter function, rear parking sensors, a rear view camera and a host of safety tech is included, too.

Prices for the Duster Cargo start at £22,995 excluding VAT for the 130hp mild-hybrid. The full hybrid 155hp model costs £23,595 plus VAT.

One sobering thought: four years ago when the previous Duster Commercial van launched, the Essential TCe version cost just £12,995 before VAT.

Dacia is accepting orders for the new Duster Cargo now, with the first deliveries expected by the end of 2025.

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Kia K4: new Golf-rival hatchback CONFIRMED for the UK

By

John Redfern

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September 17, 2025

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It’s official: the Kia K4 is coming to the UK. The distinctive new K4 will take on the Volkswagen Golf, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla in the family hatchback class.

Following its public debut at the 2025 New York International Auto Show, Kia has confirmed the K4 will be sold in Europe.

Featuring Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design language, along with a spacious interior, the K4 hatch is set to offer plenty of advanced technology.

As a traditional hatchback powered by petrol engines, the K4 also provides a counterpoint to Kia’s growing range of electric SUVs.

Style and rear-seat space

“With the K4, we are demonstrating how our models can deliver dynamic design, innovation and intelligent technology irrespective of their powertrain,” said Sjoerd Knipping, COO of Kia Europe.

“The K4 reflects our mission to make exciting mobility accessible to all by supporting customers who are not yet ready for fully electric vehicles.”

Along with a floating roofline and hidden rear door handles, the K4 also features ‘Star Map’ front lighting, inspired by the EV9 electric SUV.

Kia says the K4 will offer ‘class-leading’ levels of rear legroom, helped by exterior dimensions that straddle both C- and D-segment cars.

At 4,440mm, the K4 is 200mm longer than the equivalent Mk8 Volkswagen Golf. A wheelbase of 2,720mm is even lengthier than the spacious Cupra Leon, giving the Kia a considerable 964mm of rear legroom.

A full hybrid comes later

Depending on the engine chosen, the Kia can accommodate up to 438 litres of luggage. This rises to 1,217 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Customers can select from five different powertrains at launch, starting with a 115hp turbocharged 1.0-litre engine. A six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, although the mild hybrid version comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

For those who want more power, a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine comes in 150hp or 180hp outputs. Kia plans to add a full hybrid model later in 2026.

GT-Line trim will bring sportier styling, including bespoke alloy wheels and gloss black exterior trim, albeit no extra power.

On sale this winter

Inside, the K4 will boast a panoramic dashboard display with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 5.3-inch climate screen and 12.3-inch infotainment screen.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard on all models, with an AI-powered voice assistant also included. A Harman Kardon sound system and bio-based artificial leather upholstery will be available, too.

Kia will produce the K4 hatchback at its plant in Monterrey, Mexico, alongside a compact four-door saloon that will not be sold in Europe.

Full UK pricing and specifications will be confirmed closer to the K4 going on sale. Expect to see the first cars arrive at UK dealers in the fourth quarter of 2025.

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Honda has made a map of 127 great European driving roads

By

John Redfern

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September 17, 2025

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Honda has created an interactive map to help driving enthusiasts discover the greatest roads across Europe.

The Honda Dream Drives map covers more than 25 different countries, highlighting 127 memorable roads to enjoy across the continent.

Accessible directly from a smartphone or web browser, the Dream Drives microsite allows users to search for a specific road. Alternatively, they can find inspiration depending on their desired country and route type.

Having found a road, drivers can then send directions to their Apple CarPlay or Android Auto-enabled device, using Google Maps or another navigation app to plan their route.

A dream European road trip

To create the Dream Drives map, Honda consulted motoring experts, driving enthusiasts and owners of the Civic Type R hot hatchback.

Split between the themes of scenic, coastal, cross-country and mountainous, the routes range from the North Coast 500 in Scotland to the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania.

Other highlights include the Col de Turini in France: a famous stage on the Monte Carlo Rally that boasts an incredible 34 hairpin bends in 21 miles of tarmac.

Italy’s Passe dello Stelvio is another legendary listing, being the highest pass in the Alps mountain range. This year sees the route celebrating its 200th anniversary.

Commemorating the Civic Type R

The creation of the Dream Drives map by Honda, with a particular focus on the Civic Type R, is also a farewell of sorts.

Earlier this year, Honda confirmed the Civic Type R would exit the UK and European markets with a limited-production Ultimate Edition.

Nik Pearson, manager of corporate communications at Honda Europe, said: “Creating a unique, interactive map from this specially commissioned and unprecedented collection of roads is the perfect way to sign-off the Civic Type R in Europe.

“As the pinnacle of Honda performance and handling in recent history, these icons really come alive when driven for fun, and this unique map enables driving enthusiasts to enjoy their potential wherever they are in Europe.

“It’s the perfect guide for old, new and future generations of Honda vehicles and harnesses the spirit of Type R to fully deliver on our commitment to the ‘joy of driving’.”

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Time is running out to bid on Saddam Hussein’s Bentley

By

John Redfern

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September 16, 2025

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Fancy owning this beautiful 1958 Bentley S1 Continental Drophead Coupe, formerly the property of Saddam Hussein? If so, you need to act quickly.

An online auction for the classic convertible, hosted by Bring a Trailer, ends this week and has already generated a huge amount of attention.

Bids for the Bentley, previously part of the Iraqi dictator’s car collection, had surpassed $725,000 at the time of writing – and showed no sign of slowing down.

It demonstrates the significant demand for a restored 1950s Bentley, even one associated with an infamous despot.

Seized by Saddam Hussein

Only 31 examples of the S1 Continental Drophead Coupe were made in left-hand drive. With bodywork by Park Ward, this Bentley was first delivered to Abd al-Ilah of Hejaz, the former Crown Prince of the Hashemite Kingdom of Iraq.

Following Abd al-Ilah’s death, and the subsequent Iraqi revolution in 1958, the Bentley became the property of a Baghdadi businessman.

Owned by the same person for several decades, the car even made an appearance in the 1993 movie, King Ghazi of Iraq.

Following this, the Bentley was seized by Saddam Hussein and used by the President of Iraq until he was overthrown in 2003.

Damaged by looters following the fall of Baghdad, the Bentley was later reclaimed by its previous long-term owner.

A Canadian collector on a humanitarian visit to Iraq spotted the Bentley in 2015 and agreed to purchase it.

An award-winning restoration

Subsequently imported to Canada, the Bentley was subject to a comprehensive restoration by Vantage Motorworks in Miami, FL.

This included repainting the aluminum bodywork in its original silver, and reupholstering the interior in factory-spec dark blue leather. Attention was also given to the 4.9-liter straight-six engine, with the complete overhaul thoroughly documented.

Following its restoration, the Bentley appeared at the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. It also won its class at the 2018 Concours d’Elegance of America.

With a comprehensive history file, a recent restoration, and a truly intriguing backstory, the bespoke Bentley could potentially sell for more than $1 million.

Bidding ends on Wednesday 17 September, leaving just enough time to stake your claim for this rare classic.

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Ram hits the brakes on its electric pickup trucks

By

John Redfern

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September 15, 2025

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Are you patiently waiting for the appearance of Ram’s full-size battery electric pickup truck? If so, best to abandon your plans.

Parent company Stellantis has officially confirmed that Ram will halt development of its 1500 REV electric truck, first revealed to the public as a futuristic concept in 2023.

In a statement issued by Ram, the truck manufacturer said: “As demand for full-size battery electric trucks slows in North America, Stellantis is reassessing its product strategy and will discontinue development of a full-size BEV pickup”.

It comes as record sales for electric vehicles in North America were reported for August 2025, accounting for 9.9 percent of all registrations.

Pressure on consumers to use the federal EV tax credit, which expires at the end of September 2025, was likely a key driver for increased demand.

Ram unplugs its electric truck

Ram initially intended to begin building the all-electric 1500 in late 2024, before delaying this to 2026. The target then slipped to 2027, before finally culminating in a complete cancellation.

This decision will leave Ram as the only of the “Big Three” without an electric full-size pickup truck.

Ford currently offers the F-150 Lightning, while General Motors sells the Chevrolet Silverado EV and related GMC Sierra EV.

Both Ford and General Motors have seen declining enthusiasm for their electric pickup trucks.

Despite a wave of enthusiasm that saw more than 100,000 initial reservations made for the F-150 Lightning, Ford has subsequently reduced production output.

Ram will instead focus on a plug-in hybrid range-extender version of the 1500 pickup, previously known as the Ramcharger.

End of the Ramcharger name

As part of its decision to ditch the fully electric truck Ram will, confusingly, also recycle the REV name.

It means the range-extender model will drop the Ramcharger tag, and instead be branded as the Ram 1500 REV.

Production of the hybrid-assisted pickup has already been delayed numerous times. It is now expected to appear for the 2027 model year.

When it does finally appear, the hybrid 1500 REV is expected to deliver a combined output of 654 horsepower from its V-6 engine and electric motors. Fully charged and fuelled, it promises a range of 690 miles.

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Aston Martin Vanquish and DB12 celebrate 60 years of the Volante

By

John Redfern

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September 15, 2025

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Aston Martin has revealed bespoke versions of the Vanquish and DB12 to mark the 60th anniversary of the Volante nameplate.

The bespoke Q by Aston Martin department took the lead in creating the Volante Editions, which are said to offer the ‘ultimate open-top driving experience’.

The Volante story began in 1965 with one of the rarest Aston Martins ever made. Only 37 examples of the ‘Short Chassis Volante’ were produced during a single year. Nonetheless, the name stuck.

Aston Martin’s 60th Anniversary of Volante Editions are intended to commemorate six decades of convertible grand tourers.

Six decades of open-top driving

Both the 60th Anniversary of Volante Editions come with Pentland Green exterior paintwork, complemented by a Q Westminster Green folding roof.

Aston Martin’s classic front grille and side strakes are highlighted in anodised bronze. Bespoke 21-inch alloy wheels are finished in satin bronze, complete with diamond-turned edges.

On the inside, both Volante Editions feature a tri-tone colourway design that combines Centenary Saddle Tan, Ivory and Woven leather.

Dark Walnut open pore veneer is found on the dashboard and door panels. Owners will also discover tactile bronze touchpoints and bespoke 60th Anniversary embroidery on the seats.

An exclusive anniversary present

Aston Martin has left both cars mechanically unaltered. However with 835hp for the Vanquish Volante and 680hp for the DB12 Volante, performance was hardly in short supply.

Jolyon Nash, chief commercial officer at Aston Martin, said: “Volante is one of Aston Martin’s most evocative names, representing six decades of the ultimate open-top driving experience.

“With the 60th Anniversary of Volante Editions, we’ve created a truly exclusive celebration of that legacy – bringing together the raw power of Vanquish Volante and the refined versatility of DB12 Volante in a way that speaks directly to our most discerning customers. These cars are the embodiment of rarity, performance and craftsmanship that define Q by Aston Martin.”

Production of the 60th Anniversary of Volante Editions will be limited to 60 examples of each car. First deliveries are expected before the end of 2025.

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