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Ford ‘Ranger Ready’ training helps pickup drivers to help others

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The Ranger Ready experience aims to give pickup truck owners practical skills to help others with their vehicle

Ford has launched a practical ‘Ranger Ready’ training course, aimed at teaching Ranger owners how to get the most from their truck.

Ford’s research showed that 98 percent of pickup truck drivers in the UK have helped someone in need during the past 12 months. 

However, many pickup owners admit to lacking the knowledge required to use their vehicle safely for helping others. 

As a result, the Ranger Ready programme is designed to give pickup truck drivers hands-on experience of using their vehicle in recovery situations.

All the gear, but little idea

Ford Ranger Ready Programme

Some 80 percent of those surveyed by Ford said they felt confident when it came to towing other vehicles. However, just over half (55 percent) said they knew the vehicle being recovered should be placed in neutral. 

Many were also unsure about the correct use of safe towing points, with some believing that bumpers are a suitable anchor point. 

More than a third (39 percent) of pickup drivers said they had helped to rescue another vehicle, but most have received no formal training

Instead, truck owners often rely on instinct or advice from friends. As Ford notes, this can mean well-intentioned help results in an accident or even injuries.

Boosting truck owner confidence

Ford Ranger Ready Programme

Ford’s Ranger Ready programme has already trialled giving a group of pickup drivers practical instruction. 

A group of Ranger owners were chosen to test the experience. They received training in how to rescue other vehicles, safe off-road driving techniques and how to reverse with a trailer

Those who participated in the course reported an increased level of confidence and knowledge about how to undertake off-road rescues.

“The data that we unearthed quickly confirmed something we instinctively knew: there’s an in-built heroism in the UK’s pickup community, a real desire to help others,” said James Cooper, Ranger brand manager at Ford of Europe. 

“But the data also revealed a crucial gap. Despite drivers’ good intentions, not everyone has the know-how to help as much as they would like. That’s where Ranger Ready comes in.”

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New Mini Paul Smith edition celebrates classic British style

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The new Mini Paul Smith Edition will first be available on the Cooper Electric, followed by other models in the Mini range

A new special edition Mini has been revealed, bringing together two classic British brands. 

The Mini Paul Smith Edition made its debut at the 2025 Tokyo Motor Show, showcasing a fresh look for the Cooper Electric hatchback

Sir Paul Smith has a long history with the Mini marque. The famous fashion designer first created a limited edition classic Mini in 1998.

The latest Paul Smith Edition follows the theme of exclusive exterior colour combinations, along with special interior details.

Classic Paul Smith design

2025 Mini Paul Smith Edition

Buyers will be able to choose from three paint colour options, two of which are exclusive to the Paul Smith Edition. 

Statement Grey is a modern interpretation of a classic Mini Austin Seven colour from 1959. Inspired White is a homage to the retro Mini Beige shade. And Midnight Black is a popular choice from the modern Mini range. 

The roof can be finished in Nottingham Green (a tribute to Sir Paul’s birthplace) or Jet Black. Opting for the green sees a Paul Smith ‘Signature Stripe’ added above the rear window, with gloss and matt stripes for the black roof. More Nottingham Green can be found on the wing mirrors and front grille surround.

A special black and blue colour combination is used for the Mini badge. The 18-inch Night Spoke alloy wheels are finished in Dark Steel, complete with Nottingham Green centre caps.

Signature Stripes inside the Mini

2025 Mini Paul Smith Edition

On the inside, Sir Paul’s handwritten motto of ‘Everyday is a new beginning’ can be found on the door sills, with a hand-drawn rabbit logo on the floor mats. 

Paul Smith tone-on-tone striped patterns are incorporated into the knitted dashboard trim, while the steering wheel features a ‘Signature Stripe’ detail.

Sports seats are trimmed in Nightshade Blue, with Paul Smith stripes and a stitched logo. A Dark Steel finish is used for the interior door handles, speaker grilles and cup holders.

First deliveries due next year

2025 Mini Paul Smith Edition

Sir Paul Smith said: “It’s not often that you see two icons of British design work together in this way and it’s wonderful that our partnership has carried on over so many years. The Mini Paul Smith Edition has been a real privilege and a wonderful opportunity. New colours and new unexpected details will be a welcomed surprise.”

Prices for the Mini Paul Smith Edition start from £32,705 in Cooper Electric guise, with the first deliveries expected in spring 2026. 

Mini will extend its Paul Smith range to include petrol-powered Cooper models in the near-future.

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82% of drivers worry about being dazzled by bright headlights

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Research by the RAC uncovered large numbers of drivers are worried about driving in the dark, for fear of being dazzled

The majority of UK drivers feel concerned that vehicle headlights have become dangerously bright. 

More than four in five (82 percent) of motorists said they were worried about being dazzled as darker days arrive with the end of British Summer Time.

Research by the RAC found that 38 percent of survey respondents were nervous about driving in the dark.

Of this group, three quarters (75 percent) said bright headlights were responsible for their anxiety on the road at night.

Bright headlights cause concern

Bright headlights cause concern

Research undertaken by the RAC earlier this year found that a quarter (25 percent) of drivers were driving less due to the risk of being dazzled by other motorists. 

More than one in five (22 percent) told the RAC they wished they could drive less at night, but had no other choice.

Bright headlights were not the only cause for worry when driving at night, with nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of respondents saying spotting hazards was harder in the dark.

A third (33 percent) reported being nervous about driving in the dark as they find judging the distance to other vehicles harder. And 23 percent said they feel less confident when driving at night.

‘A problem that needs tackling’

Bright headlights cause concern

RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis said: “Unfortunately, for a lot of drivers the annual onset of darker evenings coincides with another unwelcome arrival – that of overly-bright headlights that they believe make driving more difficult due to dazzle and discomfort.

“While most of us have no choice other than to adapt to driving at night more often as the clocks go back, the fact headlight glare is the leading cause of nervousness underlines it’s a problem that needs tackling. At the same time, it’s important to remember that brighter headlights can give drivers a better view of the road ahead – so there’s a balance to be struck.”

The MP for Crawley, Peter Lamb, is set to raise the issue of headlight glare during a Westminster Hall debate on Wednesday 29 October 2025.

Headlight issues are also expected to form part of a new road safety strategy, expected to be published by the government later this year.

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Kia PV5 sets new world record for electric vans

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Driving the Kia PV5 on its record-setting run were respected journalist George Barrow, and Hyundai engineer, Christian Nigemeier

The new electric Kia PV5 Cargo van has achieved a new Guinness World Record for battery range. 

With its 72.1kWh battery fully charged and a maximum payload on board, the Kia PV5 covered 693.3 kilometres – equivalent to 430.8 miles.

Behind the wheel of the Kia was George Barrow, an award-winning commercial vehicle journalist from Van Reviewer. He was joined by Christian Nigemeier from Hyundai.

Impressively, the record was broken in real-world conditions, driving on public roads near Frankfurt in Germany.

A real-world record breaker

Kia PV5 Van Guinness World Record

The route used for the record-setting run was deliberately chosen to replicate what an electric van driver might encounter each day. Roundabouts and traffic lights were included, along with an arduous elevation gain.

When developing the PV5, Kia’s engineers found that every 100kg of additional payload reduced the van’s range by 1.5 percent. 

Carrying its maximum payload of 2,652kg, the Kia PV5 managed 12 laps of the test route before finally coming to a stop. The journey itself took 22 hours and 30 minutes, with GPS and in-cab cameras to document the run.

Marc Hedrich, president and CEO of Kia Europe, commented: “The fact that much of our target audience could operate for almost two full working days on a single charge speaks volumes about its real-world capability. The PV5 combines efficiency, flexibility and intelligent connectivity in one package.”

Extending the range of electric vans

Kia PV5 Van Guinness World Record

“I’m genuinely excited to have been part of this incredible Guinness World Records achievement. It was a demanding but unforgettable journey,” said George Barrow after the record-breaking run. 

“I was seriously impressed by how far the Kia PV5 can go: more than 430 miles on a single charge and with a full payload. That’s no small feat, and I have a feeling this record won’t be easy to beat. The PV5 and Christopher were great team-mates for this challenge. I’m proud to have been part of a record that pushes the boundaries for electric vans.”

“As an engineer, this challenge was both technical and personal,” said Christopher Nigemeier, senior engineer at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre. 

“George brought an incredible amount of driving experience from testing other vans, while I had the advantage of knowing the PV5’s powertrain inside out. It became a friendly competition between us – who could squeeze the most out of each kilowatt-hour.”

Kia will display the record-breaking PV5 Cargo at next month’s Solutrans Tradeshow in Lyon, France.

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Best MPVs and people carriers to buy in 2026

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Best MPVs

Multi-purpose vehicles, better known as MPVs or people carriers, are the most space-efficient and sensible cars you can buy. However, they faces a fight for survival as families’ heads are turned by the aspirational image of SUVs. Many buyers seem happy to sacrifice the space and versatility of an MPV for the extra style and car-park kudos of driving an SUV. 

As our list of the best MPVs reveals, however, you shouldn’t be too quick to dismiss practical people carriers. Whether you’re after a five- or seven-seater, you’ll find an MPV can easily become a part of your family. There are even upmarket options – and MPVs with fully electric powertrains, too. 

Here are the best MPVs you can buy in 2026, with our choices presented in alphabetical order.

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

Best MPVs

The 2 Series Active Tourer might be the least desirable BMW on sale. Accordingly, most people go for the X1 or X3 SUVs instead. You’d be wrong to dismiss it, though, as the 2 Series Active Tourer brings a touch of quality to the compact MPV class. 

Along with upmarket styling (yep, we’re getting used to that giant kidney grille now), it offers plenty of technology and excellent engineering. There is also lots of room for rear-seat passengers, a big boot and a surprisingly engaging driving experience. 

Engine options include mild-hybrid petrols, along with the plug-in hybrid 225e xDrive, which offers a combined output of 245hp. Using its all-wheel drive system, this version can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds – more than fast enough for a family holdall.

Citroen e-Berlingo

Best MPVs

Once you have lived with a car with a pair of sliding doors, you’ll wonder how you managed without them. A wide opening into the passenger area, ease of access in tight parking spaces and a feeling that you’re riding in the back of the A-Team van are just some of their benefits.

The Citroen Berlingo is now electric-only, powered by a 136hp motor and 50kWh battery pack. That makes for an official range of 170-180 miles, which certainly isn’t spectacular. However, if you can charge at home, the Berlingo is perfect for school-run duties. You can choose the five-seat M version or the seven-seat XL, with the latter offering up to 4,000 litres of luggage space and a load length of three metres. It drives a bit like a van, but it doesn’t look like one.

We said: ‘In an industry that blurs the lines, there’s something refreshingly honest about the Citroen Berlingo. Put simply, no car at this end of the market is so very useful. Well, apart from the platform-sharing Peugeot Rifter and Vauxhall Combo Life.’

Read our Citroen e-Berlingo review

Dacia Jogger

Best MPVs

Part-people carrier, part-estate and part-SUV, the clever Dacia Jogger cherry-picks the best bits from several categories of car. Above all, it offers seven seats and a huge amount of practicality for remarkably little cash. Granted, prices have increased in recent months, but the entry-level Jogger still costs a smidge over £20,000. For that budget, all its rivals are second-hand.

Buyers can now choose from only two trim levels: Expression and outdoor-themed Extreme, with the basic Essential now dropped from the range. Engine options consist of a 109hp petrol or 140hp petrol hybrid with an automatic gearbox.

We said: ‘A kerb weight of just 1,200kg helps the Jogger feel quite lively, too. It’s certainly more fun than many modern SUVs. And when you’re seven-up and taking it steady, the long-travel suspension and sensible 16-inch wheels do a good job of soaking up bumps.’

Read our Dacia Jogger review

Ford Tourneo Connect

Best MPVs

With the Galaxy and S-Max now dead, Ford’s MPV offerings are now solely van-based. They include the Tourneo Connect, which translates its upright sides and flat tailgate into vast interior space. Two sliding side doors make access easy and the interior feels much roomier than an SUV. 

Sharing its platform with the Volkswagen Caddy, the Tourneo Connect comes with the choice of three powertrains: 114hp 1.5-litre petrol, 120hp 2.0-litre diesel or 150hp petrol plug-in hybrid. 

The Tourneo Connect comes with five seats as standard, although you can upgrade to a seven-seat version. For those who need even more room, a long-wheelbase Grand Tourneo Connect is also available.

Ford Tourneo Custom

Best MPVs

There is no denying the commercial vehicle origins of the Ford Tourneo Custom, which is essentially a fancier version of the Transit Custom van. This is no bad thing, however, as it translates into plenty of practicality and a wide array of engine options. 

Customers can choose from diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric power for the Tourneo Custom. The electric e-Tourneo covers up to 190 miles on a full charge, and is capable of towing a trailer weighing up to 2,000kg.

Inside, the Tourneo Custom can seat up to eight people, and offers more than 5,000 litres of luggage space if you remove the rear chairs. Ford offers four trim levels, including the off-road-focused Active and the luxurious Titanium X.

Lexus LM

Best MPVs

Think of the Lexus LM as less an MPV and more a roomier alternative to luxury saloons such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or BMW 7 Series. Indeed, this is the most expensive Lexus since the LFA supercar, with prices starting from more than £94,000.

The range starts with a seven-seat model, but opting for the flagship Takumi version reduces this to just four seats. With the latter, a gigantic 48-inch display screen is included for the rear passengers, along with massage seats and a 23-speaker Mark Levinson sound system. 

A hybrid-assisted 250hp 2.5-litre petrol engine is the only powertrain available, although there is a choice between front- and all-wheel drive. In reality, the driving experience matters little, because the Lexus LM’s appeal is all about the supreme comfort of those travelling in the back.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Best MPVs

The B-Class has been part of the Mercedes-Benz range since 2004, and is now into its third generation. Compared to the A-Class on which it is based, it tends to be somewhat forgotten about, but exists as a credible rival to the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. 

Think of the B-Class as an A-Class with a higher roof, creating much more headroom inside. Three adults can sit in comfort in the rear of this Mercedes MPV, although there is no seven-seat option. Luggage capacity is respectable, with 420 litres on offer.  

Buyers can pick from a 1.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology, or a 150hp 2.0-litre diesel. All versions of the B-Class come with the futuristic MBUX infotainment setup, including voice commands and artificial intelligence.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Best MPVs

With a starting price of around £77,000, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class isn’t cheap. It’s also a bit long in the tooth, so why does it warrant a place on our list of the best MPVs?

Well, it has the potential to seat eight, which makes it more practical than most people carriers. Both the Long and Extra Long variants come with the option of seven or eight seats in Premium trim, with the fanciest Exclusive model limited to seven.  

Either way, the V-Class is a spacious, upmarket and supremely practical MPV. The Mercedes-Benz badge sets it apart on the school run, plus there’s an electric EQV version. Just don’t be surprised if other parents ask you for a price of a quick dash to Gatwick.

We said: “The V-Class people carrier might be the least alluring member of the huge Mercedes-Benz range, but it’s also the most practical. Quite simply, the V-Class is big – and it’s clever, too.”

Read our Mercedes-Benz V-Class review

Peugeot e-Rifter

Best MPVs

The e-Rifter is a Citroen e-Berlingo in a more conventional suit. Subjectively, it looks more stylish than its equally French sibling, while Peugeot’s ‘i-Cockpit’ dashboard design makes it feel more SUV-like inside. The small steering wheel is an acquired taste, though.

Rear sliding doors, a huge boot and lots of headroom give the e-Rifter several advantages over Peugeot’s range of SUVs, while the electric powertrain should deliver low running costs – albeit a rather limited driving range (172 miles in the official WLTP test).

The five-seat e-Rifter offers 775 litres of luggage space, which swells to 3,000 litres with the back seats folded flat. Need even more room? The extended-wheelbase version is 350mm longer and has seven seats, plus a whopping 4,000 litres for cargo with all the rear seats folded down.

Toyota Proace Verso EV

Best MPVs

The Proace Verso shares many parts with the Peugeot e-Traveller, Vauxhall Vivaro-e Life and Citroen e-SpaceTourer. Although it was previously available with a 2.0-litre diesel engine, Toyota’s big MPV is now electric-only. You get the benefit of Toyota’s impressive warranty: up to 10 years and 100,000 miles.

You can opt for seven, eight or nine seats, while extras include leather trim and a panoramic sunroof. The electric motor gives an official range of up to 195 miles, while rapid charging from 10 to 80 percent requires 45 minutes. 

Yes, it’s a ‘van with windows’, but the Proace Verso is a very comfortable – and appealingly under-the-radar – way to travel. Prices start from around £45,000 – less than half what you’d pay for a Mercedes-Benz EQV. 

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Best MPVs

MPVs and ‘cool’ do not typically go together, but the retro-inspired Volkswagen ID. Buzz proves the exception to the rule. Teased via concept cars since 2001, the all-electric ID. Buzz finally debuted in 2022. 

Aside from its nostalgic styling, the ID. Buzz offers a choice of two wheelbases, giving five, six or seven seats. Powertrain options include a sporty GTX model, and it has a battery range of up to 280 miles. 

Be prepared to pay a premium to enjoy Volkswagen’s throwback special, though, with prices starting from beyond £60,000. Opting for the sportier GTX increases this to almost £70,000. 

We said: ‘On looks alone, Volkswagen has created a hit. Oozing retro charm, especially with optional two-tone paintwork, the ID. Buzz generates an incredible amount of attention and goodwill on the road. Be prepared for questions in car parks, plus people wanting selfies with this modern classic-in-waiting.’

Read our Volkswagen ID. Buzz review

Volkswagen Multivan

Best MPVs

It may look a little like a van with windows, but the Volkswagen Multivan actually shares its platform with the perennial Golf hatchback. Replacing both the Sharan and Caravelle, the Multivan sacrifices outright style in the pursuit of cavernous interior space. 

There is a choice between Life or Style trim levels, along with two wheelbases and five, six or seven seats. Powertrain options include a diesel engine (remember them?), a 202hp turbocharged petrol and an efficient plug-in hybrid.

Adding too many options can make the Multivan very pricey. However, the entry-level Life version costs from just over £50,000, and offers all the equipment and space you will realistically need.

We said: ‘Look beyond the infotainment system and the price, and the Volkswagen Multivan is a brilliant reminder of why MPVs make so much sense. SUVs might be more fashionable, but the sliding doors of the Multivan are portals to a world of endless practicality.’

Read our Volkswagen Multivan review

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Most UK drivers still don’t know how to use fog lights

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The Highway Code says that front or rear fog lights must not be used unless visibility is seriously reduced

An overwhelming majority of British motorists are unaware of how to use their fog lights correctly. 

Research conducted by eBay found that almost two thirds (60 percent) of drivers use their fog lights at the wrong times.

The Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) says that fog lights should only be switched on when visibility drops below 100 metres. 

However, more than 13 percent of those surveyed said they would use fog lights when visibility was less than 300 metres, putting them at risk of a fine

An illuminating issue

UK drivers fog light knowledge

UK motorists also admit to being negligent when it comes to maintaining their car fog lights. Although 15 percent say they check them every month, a quarter (24 percent) admitted to never inspecting their lights. 

The latter drivers prefer to leave it until the annual MOT test to find out if their car’s lights work properly. 

Doing so could see drivers fined, should they be stopped by the police with faulty or non-functioning lights, with a potential cost of up to £1,000 (and three penalty points) for the most serious cases. 

Being in the dark when it comes to lights is a more general problem, however. According to eBay’s research, almost half (48 percent) of UK drivers said they used full-beam headlights when it is dark, regardless of oncoming traffic.

Drivers risking MOT failure

UK drivers fog light knowledge

A reluctance to get involved with vehicle maintenance was expressed by a fifth (20 percent) of those surveyed, who said they would feel uncomfortable sourcing replacement headlight bulbs. 

This is despite the fact that, between June 2024 and June 2025, the DVSA recorded more than 4.3 million MOT failures relating to lights

Some 31,000 MOT fails were down to issues relating to front or rear fog lights – a timely reminder to ensure these lamps are working

Abir Tewari, UK director for parts and accessories at eBay, said: ”As the days get shorter, more motorists will be making journeys in the dark. It is important that all drivers know when to use the appropriate lights on their vehicle and how to keep them maintained. 

“At eBay, we embrace the spirit of DIY, and our My Garage and Assured Fit functions help motorists of all skill levels carry out essential maintenance by identifying exactly the right parts for their vehicle.”

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Instavolt to build ‘revolutionary’ EV battery storage charger on M6 motorway

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Instavolt is stepping up its EV charger tech in the UK

EV charging network Instavolt has begun construction of a new battery storage system directly connected to its chargers at Corley services on the M6.

The new setup will store electricity on site and distribute it to the chargers on demand.

It means the grid connection can be smaller, and will provide consistent ultra-rapid charging even during periods of high demand.

Because it’s able to store and balance energy delivery, Instavolt can offer low-rate off-peak charging rates of 60p per kWh between 8pm and 7am.

Instavolt is also upgrading the chargers at Corley services from 62.5kW to 160kW ultra-rapid chargers. There will be eight chargers on the northbound site, and seven chargers on the southbound site.

The firm says it will subsequently roll out a further 12 batteries across its network, with North Wales and Eastbourne next in line to get the clever electricity storage solution.

“We’re the first to be able to provide this kind of battery storage system on a motorway network,” said Instavolt CEO Delvin Lane.

“This transformative project represents another important milestone for Instavolt and for the UK’s public charging infrastructure.”

He said the firm is demonstrating how smart energy management “can deliver reliable ultra-rapid charging while reducing pressure on the grid.

“It’s innovations like this that will help ensure EV charging remains scalable, sustainable and ready for the next wave of electric vehicles”.

Lane added that Instavolt currently has more than 2,200 EV chargers – which operate at 99 percent uptime and are powered by fully-renewable electricity.

“This development reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering a seamless and reliable EV charging experience for all drivers,” added operator of Corley services, Welcome Break CEO John Diviney.

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Hot Wheels models now cover the full 2025 Formula 1 grid

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Scuderia Ferrari and Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team are now part of the Hot Wheels diecast model line

The complete 2025 Formula 1 grid has now been captured by Hot Wheels in 1:64 scale die-cast form.

Earlier this year, Hot Wheels announced a new collaboration with Formula 1, which saw cars from eight of the 10 teams created as miniature models. 

Both Scuderia Ferrari and the Aston Martin Formula 1 Team were notably absent from the range at launch, however. 

However, fans of Sir Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso can rest easy, as the two teams have now been added to the Hot Wheels grid.

Ferrari and Aston Martin ready to play

Hot Wheels Formula 1 Full Grid

The announcement of Ferrari and Aston Martin joining the Hot Wheels F1 range was revealed at a special event during the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix.

Famous Mexican driver Sergio Perez, who will return to racing next season for the fledgling Cadillac F1 Team, hosted the big reveal.

Hot Wheels expects the models representing all 10 teams, and 20 current Formula 1 drivers, to reach toy store shelves by December 2025.

Prices for each 1:64-scale model start at £2.30 in standard form. However, more detailed Premium models, featuring metal components, rubber tyres and driver helmets, will cost £10.99.

The F1 grid in the palm of your hand

Hot Wheels Formula 1 Full Grid

“With the addition of Scuderia Ferrari HP and Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team to the collection, fans of every team on the grid can now experience Formula 1 in a whole new way,” said Ted Wu, global head of vehicles at Mattel. 

“Hot Wheels has always celebrated the most exciting vehicles in the world, and nothing is more thrilling than Formula 1. These die-cast cars put the speed, precision and excitement of Formula 1 racing right in the palm of fans’ hands.”

Emily Prazer, chief commercial officer for Formula 1, added: “Seeing the full 2025 Hot Wheels Formula 1 collection come together with all teams on the grid now represented is fantastic. Especially given the incredible attention to detail Hot Wheels delivers.”

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Do UK speed cameras still need painted road markings?

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Not all speed cameras use road markings – nor are they needed to prosecute for speeding.

More than 30 years have passed since Britain’s first-ever speed camera was installed on Twickenham bridge in London

The Gatso (short for Gatsometer) was the first fixed speed camera to gain official approval from the Home Office. Trials began in 1988, before they were pressed into use as enforcement devices from 1992. A Gatso camera uses radar to measure speed, then two static images of the passing vehicle for use when issuing a ticket.

Gatso speed cameras – officially called ‘safety cameras’ – were originally painted grey, but a change in the law stipulated that all cameras must be easily visible to drivers. In the early days, they also featured removable film, which had to be checked by operators. Digital versions that don’t rely on film arrived in 2007.

You’ll know if you’ve been caught by a Gatso, because a flash will illuminate the car and its number plate. Crucially, the photograph also captures the white calibration lines painted on the road.

Are road markings required?

Safety camera partnership van

There are two types of white lines – sometimes known as ‘dragon’s teeth’ – used for speed cameras. Some are painted in the centre of the lane, while others are found at the edges of the road. Some Gatso cameras have no road markings next to them, either because the camera housing is a dummy, or because the road has been resurfaced.

As this Freedom of Information (FOI) request highlights, ‘there is no laid down distance [for road markings] and [they] can vary by both area and site’.

If the speed camera is to be used within Section 20 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act, the lines or some other distance reference need to be present, so a secondary check can be carried out. The lines on the road are normally set at five feet, six feet, one metre or two metre intervals.

This is an important point, because Gatso speed cameras DO NOT require road markings for the speeding ticket to be enforceable. The lines are there to make it easier for safety camera partnerships to provide the necessary evidence. Using the lines is a more effective secondary check.

Alternatively, other fixed features can be used to assess the distance travelled by the vehicle between the two images in the evidence. An example could be the road markings in the centre of the road.

Slow down and stay safe

Speed camera

We contacted a road safety partnership for clarification. We were told: ‘If no lines are present an offence could still be prosecuted’.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) guide for the operational use of speed and red-light offence detection technology sheds more light on the subject.

Section 16.2.2 of the guide states: ‘HOTA [Home Office Type Approved] unattended automatic devices will have a second independent method of checking the primary speed measurement. One such method offered by manufacturers is the taking of two photographs of the offending vehicle at a known time apart, which can be compared with the distance travelled within that time interval to drive at the speed of the vehicle. Only approved methods of secondary checks should be utilised.’

No markings for average speed cameras

Speed cameras UK

Modern speed cameras do not rely on road markings to catch speeding motorists. Take the SPECS digital cameras (pictured above), which measure the average speed between two cameras. These are commonly found on A-roads, or to enforce temporary speed limits on motorways.

The fact is, speed cameras have never needed painted road markings, they were simply there for evidence and enforcement purposes. However, that’s not to say that the markings can’t be used by motorists who feel a speeding ticket has been issued unfairly.

If in doubt, don’t speed. If you see a camera, assume it is operational and that you will get caught if you speed past it. In all senses, the risk simply isn’t worth it.

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New Chery Tiggo 9: seven-seat hybrid SUV to cost £499 a month

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The Chery Tiggo 9 comes with a 428hp hybrid powertrain, and can cover over 90 miles on battery power alone

Chinese car manufacturer Chery has announced its latest launch for the UK: the flagship Tiggo 9 CSH. 

The upmarket seven-seat Tiggo 9 will be aimed at popular family SUVs such as the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. 

As the parent company of the Omoda and Jaecoo brands, Chery was the fourth-largest vehicle manufacturer in China last year. 

The addition of the Tiggo 9 CSH to Chery’s UK lineup follows the launch of the smaller Tiggo 8 earlier in 2025.

Hybrid power for 650 miles of range

Chery Tiggo 9 UK Pricing

Powering the Tiggo 9 CSH is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which is combined with an electric motor for total outputs of 428hp and 428lb ft of torque.

With a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), the all-wheel-drive Tiggo 9 CSH can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds. 

A 34.7kWh battery pack gives the Tiggo 9 CSH the ability to cover 91 miles on electricity alone, and provides a combined petrol and electric range of more than 650 miles. 

The Tiggo 9 can recharge its own battery or use DC rapid charging at speeds of up to 71kW. A 30 to 80 percent charge can be completed in 18 minutes.

Generous specification for Tiggo 9 CSH

Chery Tiggo 9 UK Pricing

Chery will offer the Tiggo 9 in range-topping Summit specification only for UK buyers.

Standard equipment for the Tiggo 9 CSH Summit includes heated and ventilated ‘eco-leather’ seats with a massage function for those in the front. The steering wheel is also heated, while the dual-zone climate control has an air purification function.

Multi-colour ambient lighting, a ‘pet mode’ for the ventilation system, a 540-degree surround-view parking camera, a panoramic sunroof and a power-operated tailgate are all part of Summit package, too.

Dominating the dashboard is a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, which sits alongside a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel. A head-up display is also included, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone connectivity. 

Available to order now

Chery Tiggo 9 UK Pricing

Prices for the Chery Tiggo 9 CSH will start from £43,015. All Chery vehicles come with a seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty, supported by more than 25 dealerships throughout the country. 

Chery will also offer a variety of finance deals, such as a 1.9 percent APR PCP package. With a £4,536.50 deposit, this would see customers pay £499 across a 48-month loan agreement. 

These prices mean the Tiggo 9 will substantially undercut many of its plug-in hybrid SUV competitors.

Pre-orders can be placed through Chery’s website now, with the first customer deliveries expected in December 2025.

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