British battery tech could slash EV charging times to 10 minutes

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November 14, 2025

The Hydrohertz Dectravalve could reduce electric car fast charging times by 68 percent, by keeping battery cells cooler

Radical new British-designed battery technology could see dramatic reductions in charging times for electric cars.

Nottingham-based company Hydrohertz has developed the new ‘Dectravalve’. The innovation is designed to regulate EV battery temperature, keeping the cells cooler.

Current electric car technology means fast charging can increase battery temperature to 56°C. Once above 50°C, chargers have to reduce their speed to avoid damaging the battery. This inevitably results in longer charging times.

However, in testing, the Dectravalve kept battery cells to a maximum of 44.5°C. It also ensured a smaller variation in temperature across the battery pack.

Longer range, shorter charging times

By keeping every cell below 50°C, and with no thermal hotspots across the pack, a Dectravalve-equipped battery can maintain peak charging performance.

Hydrohertz tests demonstrated that charging times for electric car batteries could be reduced by 68 percent.

When connected to a 350kW fast charger, this means a 10 to 80 percent charge could require just 10 minutes instead of 30 minutes. As a result, recharging an electric car could be almost as quick as refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle.

The Dectravalve also keeps EV battery cells cooler in all conditions, meaning driving efficiency is improved by up to 10 percent. Depending on the battery size and electric car in question, this could mean an extra 30 or 40 miles of range.

British battery innovation

Founded in 2020 by Martyn Talbot, Hydrohertz has received three consecutive nominations for the Earthshot Prize.

CTO Talbot explained: “The Dectravalve solves a fundamental problem of EV battery thermal management systems – how to achieve true independent zone control of temperature without the complexity, weight and energy waste of multiple valve arrays.”

Paul Arkesden, CEO of Hydrohertz, was previously senior vice president of engineering at Singer Vehicle Design. Prior to that, he worked as head of engineering at McLaren Automotive, where he led development of the powertrain in the P1 hypercar.

Arkesden commented: “The automotive industry has been waiting for battery technology to catch up with consumer expectations, but progress has been slow and expensive. A new chemistry can take a decade to develop and require billions in investment. What we’ve done is take a different approach – we’ve dramatically improved how existing batteries perform by perfecting the thermal management of them.”

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New Polestar 5 launched in Gran Turismo racing game

By

John Redfern

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November 13, 2025

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With 871hp and 749lb ft of torque, the Polestar 5 is the Swedish marque’s grand touring electric flagship

The new Polestar 5 electric GT car will be available to drive in Gran Turismo 7 from December 2025.

After being revealed at the recent Gran Turismo World Series in Los Angeles, the Polestar 5 will make its virtual debut in the long-running racing game.

A close collaboration between the Swedish manufacturer and Gran Turismo developer Polyphony has transferred the dynamics of the Polestar EV into the digital world.

It means that PlayStation 4 and 5 gamers will be able to experience ‘driving’ the 871hp electric hatchback.

Perfecting the digital feel

To ensure the virtual Polestar 5 matched the real-world model, Polyphony Digital sought help from racing driver and sim-racer Igor Fraga.

Known for his experience and competitive lap times in Gran Turismo games, Fraga was given special access to prototype Polestar 5 vehicles. He also met with Polestar engineers in Sweden.

A final sign-off process was undertaken at the Brands Hatch circuit in Kent. This ensured the Polestar 5’s on-track performance would be matched by the digital model.

Joakim Rydholm, head of driving dynamics at Polestar, said: “Working with the Gran Turismo team to ensure the digital ‘feel’ of the Polestar 5 was as close as possible to the real thing was a really important step for us. The end result means the digital car 100 percent replicates the behind-the-wheel experience of the real Polestar 5, meaning GT racers will have just as much fun as buyers of the actual cars.”

The start of a real-world collaboration

Such was the level of effort put into modelling the real-world Polestar 5, Polyphony Digital says lap times in-game and in real life are directly comparable. With the right driver or player behind the wheel, of course…

Kazunori Yamauchi, Gran Turismo Series producer, said: “I have long been impressed by Polestar cars for their advanced, clean and elegant designs, and so I am delighted to collaborate with them to bring the Polestar 5 to Gran Turismo.

“It is the first time we have worked together, and it has been a very positive experience. The development team at Polestar put a great deal of care into crafting the car’s driving experience, and so I am sure the players will enjoy the experience of driving it in Gran Turismo.”

An update for Gran Turismo 7 will add the Polestar 5 to the game in December 2025. However, this marks only the start of the collaboration.

A special Polestar time trial event will also take place in the game, with the winner receiving an exclusive trip to Fukuoka, Japan to attend the World Finals of the 2025 GT World Series.

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Bespoke engine for reborn Ford Escort Mk1 RS revs to 10,000rpm

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John Redfern

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November 13, 2025

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The new Boreham TEN-K engine is destined for both road and track use with the company’s continuation Ford Escort Mk1 RS

Restomod Ford specialist Boreham Motorworks has unveiled a stunning new high-revving engine.

The ‘Ten-K’ four-cylinder engine is destined for life in Boreham Motorworks’ Ford Escort Mk1 RS continuation car.

Producing 330hp at a frenetic 10,000rpm, the naturally aspirated Ten-K features F1-inspired technology.

The engineering team behind the Ten-K has more than 30 years of experience in Ford powertrain development. Boreham Motorworks promises ‘razor-sharp response’ and a linear power delivery.

Big power and light weight

Boreham Motorworks has built the Ten-K with lightweight internal components and parts made from billet aluminium. The crankshaft, dry sump and cam covers are designed for maximum performance.

The 2.1-litre engine uses a 16-valve head combined with individual throttle bodies. Port geometry influenced by Formula 1 racing should deliver optimal gas flow.

Boreham Motorworks has worked to keep the weight of the Ten-K to the minimum. This extends to using thin-wall 3D-printed casting technology for the engine block.

As a result, the high-performance motor tips the scales at just 85kg, which should aid the power-to-weight ratio of the forthcoming Ford Escort Mk1 RS ‘Continumod’.

Drive the Escort Mk1 RS at Thruxton

During the past six months, Boreham Motorworks has undertaken dynamometer testing of the Ten-K, along with calibration work.

The new engine is said to already exceed its development goals, including for its rev limit and power output. Installing the Ten-K in the Escort Mk1 RS will be the next stage in the process.

“We’ve reached a hugely important milestone in the Mk1 RS programme,” said Iain Muir, CEO of DRVN Automotive.

“The Boreham Ten-K is the result of relentless effort from our engine development team – a demonstration of what can be achieved when passion and precision come together. With the engine being currently installed in the car and mated to the bespoke, all-new, ultra-lightweight fully floating rear axle, I can’t wait to see it fired up for its first test run.”

As part of the DRVN Automotive Group, Boreham Motorworks will enjoy exclusive access to Thruxton race circuit – allowing potential customers to test the Ten-K engine and new Escort RS on-track.

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New Omoda 7 family SUV to cost from under £30,000

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John Redfern

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November 12, 2025

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Prices for the Omoda 7 will begin from £29,915 in petrol-engine form, with a hybrid version costing £32,000

Chinese brand Omoda has confirmed prices for its latest car – and it will undercut most European rivals.

The Omoda 7 becomes the marque’s new mid-range SUV, slotting into its lineup between the compact Omoda 5 and flagship Omoda 9.

Two trim levels will be available in the UK, along with a choice of turbocharged petrol or plug-in hybrid powertrains for the five-seat family SUV.

Arriving in dealerships from January 2026, all versions of the Omoda 7 will come with a seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty as standard.

Turbo petrol or hybrid options

A 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine is the starting point for the Omoda 7 range, offering up 147hp and 203lb ft of torque. With a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 0-62mph sprint takes 10.4 seconds and top speed is 118mph.

Also available will be the ‘Super Hybrid System’ (SHS) powertrain, as used in the related Jaecoo 7 SUV. Combining a 1.5-litre engine with a 18.3kWh battery pack, the SHS setup delivers 204hp and 269lb ft.

The plug-in hybrid can also travel up to 56 miles in EV mode, giving the Omoda 7 a total range of around 700 miles. Replenishing the battery from 30 to 80 percent requires 20 minutes using a rapid charger.

Opting for the Omoda 7 SHS brings more performance, too, with the 0-62mph time cut to 8.4 seconds. Top speed is 112mph.

Lots of standard equipment

The Omoda 7 model range starts with Knight specification, which includes 19-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, a six-speaker Sony audio system and a heated eco-leather steering wheel.

Noble trim adds extra equipment, such as 20-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation functions, a powered tailgate and a 12-speaker Sony sound system.

This top trim level also offers a fragrance system for the climate control, along with four-zone voice control and a panoramic sunroof.

Both versions come equipped with a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, which is combined with a sliding 15.6-inch central touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is included, along with a cooled wireless smartphone charger.

Developed with UK drivers in mind

On sale in January 2026, prices for the Omoda 7 will start from £29,915 with the turbocharged petrol engine. Choosing the plug-in hybrid SHS ups the cost to £32,000.

Victor Zhang, UK country director for Omoda, said: “The Omoda 7 has been developed for the way people in the UK live and drive – it’s practical, dynamic and refined, yet still delivers that expressive, art-driven design language that defines our brand.

“With a choice between pure petrol and advanced super hybrid technology, the Omoda 7 represents our continued commitment to offering accessible premium SUV options to British drivers.”

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Only 1 in 6 emergency vehicles is hybrid or electric

By

John Redfern

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November 12, 2025

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Police forces are leading the way on low emissions, with Gloucestershire Constabulary making the biggest change

Emergency vehicle fleets are slowly making the transition to low-emissions vehicles, according to new research.

Of the almost 41,000 emergency vehicles in use throughout the UK, just 15 percent currently use hybrid or fully electric powertrains.

At present, there are 2,347 electric vehicles in use by the emergency services. Hybrids are better represented on fleets, with a total of 3,703.

There is a clear disparity in the use of low-emissions vehicles between the different emergency services, along with significant regional variations.

Police forces lead the way

The research was undertaken by Leasing.com, using Freedom of Information (FOI) requests for the UK’s 104 emergency services. Of the 90 who responded, police forces emerged slightly in front for the use of low-emissions vehicles.

Some 16.3 percent of all police vehicles are now classified as ‘low emissions’. Gloucestershire Constabulary comes top, with almost half (46 percent) of its fleet now either hybrid or electric.

The fire and rescue service is just behind, with 16.1 percent of all its vehicles now low emissions. Both Shropshire and Suffolk have now converted 100 percent of their fleets to hybrid or electric.

NHS Trust ambulance services are some way behind, however. Of the 7,627 vehicles used by NHS Trusts, just one in 10 (9.7 percent) is hybrid or electric. With 16 percent of its ambulances now low emissions, the South Central region is the current leader.

Decarbonising emergency fleets

Across the regions, Scotland has made the biggest overall effort to convert its emergency services to low emissions.

One in three (33 percent) of emergency vehicles in Scotland is low emissions, with 24 percent of them fully electric.

In comparison, Northern Ireland has switched only one percent of its emergency fleet to hybrid or electric. This equates to eight vehicles across the region.

Mike Fazal, motoring expert and CEO of Leasing.com, said: “Emergency fleets are at the frontline of public service, but when it comes to decarbonisation the picture is mixed. Some forces and regions are making significant strides, while others face real barriers to change.

“This isn’t simply about switching vehicles – it’s about matching technology to day-to-day needs, securing the right infrastructure, and having a long-term plan that balances performance, cost and sustainability. That’s the challenge if we want to create a greener future for blue-light fleets.”

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Majority of UK drivers now say safety tech has helped avoid collisions

By

Richard Aucock

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November 11, 2025

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More than four in five drivers say they feel safer driving cars fitted with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and 55 percent say it has helped prevent a collision.

The new survey, conducted by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), has found that drivers most value blind-spot information systems (BLIS) and driver drowsiness protection.

However, it also found that one in four drivers find some ADAS tech distracting, irritating or intrusive.

Thatcham Research commissioned the survey to validate ADAS tech, which can be controversial due to its intrusive nature and ‘default-on’ status.

Even if drivers disable ADAS on one trip, regulations require it to be re-enabled at the start of every new journey.

“When more than half of drivers report that these systems have actively prevented collisions, it reinforces what we see in our testing,” said Thatcham Research principal ADAS engineer Yousif Al-Ani.

“ADAS is reducing collisions and improving road safety, despite early implementation challenges leading to driver dissatisfaction.”

More ADAS testing needed, says Thatcham

Al-Ani says he wants to help car firms develop ADAS that doesn’t just tick regulatory compliance boxes, but will be genuinely beneficial to consumers.

“This survey data shows that we’re on the right track, but also highlights the importance of our continued work with car manufacturers to refine these systems and reduce false activations that can frustrate drivers.”

He called for car firms to “go beyond controlled testing environments to understand how safety systems behave in real-world conditions, so the technology works when it matters most, without causing unnecessary frustration”.

Sam Miley, head of forecasting and thought leadership at CEBR, observed the research “highlighted the generally positive sentiment held by drivers towards ADAS.

“Drivers not only report feeling safer, but a majority have actively avoided collisions. Nevertheless, there is still scope for improvement… Continued refinement will be essential to reach mass adoption and fully realise the benefits of these technologies.”

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1 in 25 used cars is now an EV

By

Richard Aucock

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November 11, 2025

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Used car sales grew 2.8 percent in Q3 of 2025, topping two million transactions for the first time since 2021.

With 2,021,265 second-hand cars changing hands, it means the used market has now grown for 11 quarters in a row.

This, says the SMMT, is thanks to improved new car supply as post-pandemic shortages eased. It’s also a result of cash-strapped motorists switching to used cars to offset rising new car prices.

More than 1.1 million used cars sold in Q3 had a petrol engine, making this the most popular fuel type. Sales grew 1.9 percent, while diesel fell 2.8 percent to 658,000 cars.

Hybrids are on the up, with sales rising 30.7 percent to 107,000 cars, while plug-in hybrids grew two percent to 23,480 cars.

The biggest improvement was in used electric car sales, which were up 44.4 percent to 80,614 cars. A record used electric car market share of four percent means one in 25 second-hand buyers made the switch to electric.

Most popular used cars

A blue car speeds down a road through a forested area, demonstrating dynamic motion with blurred green trees in the background.

The Ford Fiesta remains Britain’s most popular used car, with more than 78,000 transactions in Q3. This is despite Ford’s increasingly baffling decision to stop production of the Fiesta.

The Vauxhall Corsa is gaining ground, with 64,000 transactions, while the Volkswagen Golf was in third, a few thousand units ahead of the Ford Focus.

Easily the most popular used car colour in Q3 was black, well ahead of grey and white. Meanwhile, the most transactions took place in the South East of England, followed by the North West and then the West Midlands.

The SMMT’s data also showed that the average age of a car in the UK continues to increase. It now stands at 9.5 years, up from eight years in 2019. Again, this indicates motorists are holding on to their cars for longer rather than buying new ones.

While the switch to electric is admirable, the need to get older, dirtier cars off the road is just as pressing if the UK is to hit its climate change goals.

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New Citroen e-C5 Aircross qualifies for full £3,750 Electric Car Grant

By

Richard Aucock

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November 11, 2025

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The Citroen e-C5 Aircross Long Range has become the latest car to qualify for the UK Government’s full £3,750 Electric Car Grant.

The family-sized electric SUV, which has a range of up to 421 miles, earns the grant thanks to its large 97kWh battery being produced in France.

This, says the firm, helps ‘lower the environmental footprint of the vehicle thanks to reduced emissions in the production process’. It therefore meets the strict environmental criteria required for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant.

Being eligible for the ECG makes the Citroen e-C5 Aircross Long Range something of a bargain. The entry-level ‘You’ version starts from £32,935 after the grant is applied.

Higher-spec Plus models cost from £35,575, while even the range-topping e-C5 Aircross Max starts from £38,215 – well below the £40,000 ‘expensive car supplement’.

Intriguingly, it means the Citroen e-C5 Aircross Comfort Range, which can travel 322 miles between charges, is only £370 cheaper than the Long Range version. Spending that extra £370 will get you 99 miles more range, making it something of a no-brainer.

‘Technology, comfort and range’

Greg Taylor, MD of Citroen UK, said: “Long Range variants of e-C5 Aircross offer outstanding technology, comfort and range.

“At Citroen, we firmly believe that technology, comfort and electrification can and should be accessible to as many people as possible. The e-C5 Aircross Long Range is the latest example of a vehicle that embodies that philosophy and I look forward to seeing many of them on UK roads.”

The Citroen e-C5 Aircross is a rival to vehicles such as the Peugeot e-3008, Vauxhall Grandland Electric and even the Tesla Model Y. It is also available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid guises.

There are a steadily growing number of cars that qualify for the government’s Electric Car Grant, but most are only eligible for the lower £1,500 sum.

The Ford Puma Gen-E was the first car to qualify for the full £3,750 amount. It is now reportedly sold out until 2026 as a result.

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Skoda Kodiaq L&K flagship luxury SUV revealed

Skoda reveals flagship Kodiaq L&K luxury SUV

By

John Redfern

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November 10, 2025

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UK orders for the new Skoda Kodiaq L&K will begin from 17 December 2025, with prices from £48,985

Skoda has revealed details of its new range-topping Kodiaq SUV, which goes on sale next month.

The Kodiaq L&K is named after Skoda founders Vaclav Laurin and Vaclav Klement. The flagship Laurin & Klement trim level is a longstanding part of the Czech brand’s lineup.

Seating for up to seven people is included, depending on which of the three powertrain options you choose for the family SUV.

The new Kodiaq L&K will start from £48,985. Skoda promises a comprehensive level of standard equipment to justify the higher price tag.

Leather and luxury inside

Marking out the Kodiaq L&K from the rest of the range will be a set of 20-inch ‘Venus’ alloy wheels, along with exterior running boards and metallic paint. Bespoke L&K badging ensures that everyone knows you have bought the classiest Kodiaq.

On the inside, the seats are upholstered in plush Cognac leather, with those in the front benefiting from electric adjustment, heating, ventilation and a massage function. The rear seats are heated, too.

Exclusive floor mats, aluminium pedals, a variable boot floor and a heated front windscreen are also part of the L&K’s standard specification.

Other key features include a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera, remote parking assist and a ‘Virtual Pedal’ to open the boot electrically. A Canton premium sound system is the finishing touch.

Orders open from December

For the first time, the Kodiaq L&K is offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This allows a range of up to 71 miles on battery power, but does limit the SUV to carrying five people.

Both the 204hp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and 193hp 2.0-litre diesel versions come with all-wheel drive and the option of seven seats. A seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox is standard, too.

The plug-in hybrid Kodiaq L&K will be the cheapest option, at £48,895. Opting for the turbocharged petrol engine requires £51,460, with the diesel most expensive at £53,230.

Skoda dealerships will begin accepting orders for the Kodiaq L&K from 17 December 2025.

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UK prices announced for BYD Seal 6 DM-i saloon and Touring

By

John Redfern

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November 10, 2025

0

The BYD Seal 6 DM-i will cost from £33,390 in saloon form, with the estate model beginning at £34,990

BYD has confirmed prices for the latest two models to join its UK range – and the order books are open.

The plug-in hybrid BYD Seal 6 comes in both four-door saloon and Touring estate guises, both with a generous level of equipment and technology.

It marks the first time BYD has offered an estate car in Europe, although the Chinese brand already sells an electric Seal saloon.

Last month, the UK was confirmed as the biggest international market for BYD vehicles outside of China.

Seal 6 goes the distance

Both versions of the plug-in hybrid Seal 6 DM-i feature a 1.5-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor. Power output and battery capacity are determined by the trim level chosen.

In entry-level Boost specification, the Seal 6 DM-i offers 181hp, although the Comfort model ups this to 209hp. Maximum range for the saloon peaks at 935 miles, with up to 65 miles possible on battery power alone in Comfort spec.

Opting for the Touring version reduces maximum range to 839 miles, with a pure EV range of up to 62 miles.

What sets the BYD Seal 6 DM-i Touring apart is its practicality. The estate has 500 litres of luggage space with the rear seats in place. Folding them down increases capacity to a whopping 1,535 litres.

Ready to order now

Predicted to be the best-selling version, the BYD Seal 6 DM-i Boost comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic windscreen wipers and headlights, vegan leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats and a six-speaker audio system.

Standard tech includes a 12.8-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.

Comfort grade sees the touchscreen’s size increased to 15.6 inches, and adds 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, a wireless smartphone charger, a 360-degree camera and a panoramic sunroof.

Prices for the BYD Seal 6 DM-i saloon start at £33,990 in Boost trim, with the Comfort model requiring £36,990. The Touring commands a £1,000 premium on top.

Both Seal 6 DM-i saloon and Touring can be ordered now, with the first deliveries to UK customers expected in December 2025.

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