Two thirds say driving should be on the school curriculum

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October 10, 2025

The Young Driver training scheme offers lessons to youngsters aged between nine and 17 years old

The Young Driver training scheme has proposed that driving should form part of the formal school curriculum, rather than young people needing to rely on lessons after they turn 17.

It follows a survey of 2,700 parents and grandparents across the UK, which found the majority supported the idea of teaching driving in schools.

Two thirds (65 percent) of those asked believed that adding driving to the school curriculum would be a positive move.

Start drivers young to boost safety

Young Driver has run 109 school events over the past year – with 4,500 children taking part – via its not-for-profit Young Driver Foundation.

Adrian Harding, who heads up the Young Driver Foundation, said: “The younger they begin, the more seriously they take the safety side of things. Eight out of 10 parents (82 percent) that we surveyed agree that children are more receptive to road safety concepts at an earlier age.

“Learning to be a good driver takes time, patience and experience. And to make it accessible to all, school is the best place to facilitate that. This is something we’d like to see the government really consider if they’re serious about young driver safety.”

One-in-five newly qualified drivers in the UK crashes within the first six months of passing their driving test. By comparison, only 3.4 percent of those who have completed a Young Driver course have a car accident.

Making a real-world difference

Young Driver’s survey also posed questions about the level of support for alternative road safety options, such as graduated driving licences.

Adrian Harding added: “Whilst the majority (67 percent) did agree with it in some form, one in four (23 percent) said they thought with proper education, a graduated licence wouldn’t be so necessary. Having delivered more than 1.5 million pre-17 driving lessons in the UK, we have seen first-hand the difference they can make to young driver safety.”

Young Driver offers children aged nine and over the chance to drive a dual-controlled Suzuki Swift, or a similar car, with a qualified ADI driving instructor. The lessons all take place on private land, but with realistic road layouts.

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Car theft: what to do if your vehicle is stolen

By

Motoring Research team

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October 10, 2025

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Nearly 63,000 vehicles were stolen in the UK last year, according to DVLA data. However, 20 percent of these (approximately 12,600 cars) were recovered within the first seven days.

Sadly, if your vehicle isn’t located during the crucial first week after a theft, the chances of getting it back drop dramatically.

For any driver, having your car stolen is a nightmare scenario, but quick action can boost your chances of recovering it. This includes using social media to get as many eyes on the car as possible. New digital platforms such as BringBackMyCar can improve the odds still further.

The first 24-hour window

Here are the three steps you should take straight away if you discover your car has been stolen:

Report the theft immediately. Contacting the police will give you a crime reference number. If the car is fitted with a tracker, alert the provider straight away. Many criminals will leave a stolen vehicle hidden nearby for a short ‘cooling-off’ period, so quick action can make all the difference to getting your car back.

Inform your insurance company. They will need the crime reference number and may also provide advice on next steps.

Spread the word. It may sound obvious, but being proactive can make a huge difference. Using social media sites such as Instagram, Facebook and neighbourhood WhatsApp chats can ensure more eyes are looking out for your stolen car.

Use digital channels for car recovery

In the past, drivers often relied on chance. A neighbour spotting something unusual on your driveway, for instance, or the car resurfacing weeks later. Today the landscape looks different, with well-known automotive influencers setting up informal ‘alert networks’ to help track stolen cars down.

The new BringBackMyCar platform takes this principle and makes it faster and more accessible. It allows owners to publish verified alerts, complete with photos, the car’s last-known location and distinguishing features on the vehicle.

This information is then shared across a network of users, allowing anyone who spots the car to upload a photo and notify the owner. What once relied on luck now can become becomes a coordinated, community-driven response to tackle car crime.

Prevention and trust

Recovery is only one part of the challenge, however. Even when cars aren’t found, they often resurface into the used market with falsified histories or are broken for parts that are difficult to trace.

This is where transparency in vehicle data becomes vital. From up-to-date MOT records to proof of ownership, clear and connected information makes it harder for stolen cars to slip back into circulation.

Pierre Tanguy, founder of the PitStop digital garage, said: “Car theft may not be going away, but the way we respond to it is changing. Acting quickly and making use of the digital tools available can dramatically improve your chances of recovery.

“Just as important is keeping your car’s history up to date, helping to build transparency and trust across the wider market for the future.”

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Drag-reducing kit launched for Tesla Model Y Performance

By

John Redfern

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October 9, 2025

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Available for the 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance, the new aero kit includes five different elements

Owners of the latest Tesla Model Y Performance can now specify a full aero kit, designed for more than just looks.

California’s Unplugged Performance has developed the new multi-piece kit for 2026 model-year versions of the Tesla SUV.

In particular, updated “Juniper” versions of the Model Y Performance are the target for these aerodynamic components, which reduce drag at the same time as generating downforce.

Fully removable, the Unplugged Performance aero kit is intended to provide an OEM-style look for the 510 horsepower Model Y.

Designed to work together

Unplugged Performance Tesla Model Y Juniper

Elements of the Unplugged Performance kit can be purchased separately, but computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis has been used to ensure all the parts work together.

At the front, a new splitter replaces the existing factory item. It is claimed to enhance mid-corner handling consistency, along with toughening up the Model Y’s looks.

A pair of canards attach to the front bumper, intended to manage high-pressure airflow to boost turn-in response.

The canards are matched at the rear by a set of fins on the Tesla’s rear quarters. These minimize turbulence to improve aero efficiency.

Available to order now

At the rear, Unplugged Performance has added a diffuser that extends the factory-spec bumper. A larger spoiler finishes off the Model Y’s makeover.

With all the parts installed, Unplugged Performance says the Model Y benefits from a 2.4 percent reduction in drag. The kit also generates 120 lb of downforce.

Although the latter is a relatively small figure compared to high-end hypercars, it represents an improvement over the lift generated by the standard SUV.

Orders for the new Model Y aero kit can be placed now, priced from $2,195. Fitting at Unplugged Performance’s facility in Hawthorne, California costs an extra $400. Deliveries of the first completed components are expected by the end of this year.

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Leapmotor B10 electric SUV prices to start from £29,995

By

Richard Aucock

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October 9, 2025

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The new Leapmotor B10 is an electric family SUV with a 270-mile range and a competitive price from £29,995

The new Leapmotor B10, a family SUV to rival the Ford Explorer and Renault Scenic E-Tech, will cost from £29,995 when launched later this month.

The sub-£30,000 price tag comes courtesy of the firm’s £1,500 ‘Leap-Grant’.

This initiative mirrors the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant, for which the Chinese-built Leapmotor B10 is ineligible.

As with other Leapmotor models, there is just a single version of the B10. Plenty of equipment is included as standard, however, including a panoramic sunroof, 14.6-inch touchscreen, electric heated and cooled faux leather front seats and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is standard, as is a wireless smartphone charging pad.

The only option is metallic paint, which costs £575. It’s for those who don’t like the sole standard colour of metallic Starry Night Blue – supposedly inspired by a Vincent van Gogh painting.

What is Leapmotor B10’s electric range?

The new Leapmotor B10 has a 67.1kWh battery, providing a fully charged range of 270 miles.

With a decent maximum DC rapid charging speed of 168kW, it can go from 30-80 percent capacity in 20 minutes.

A 215hp electric motor drives the rear wheels and 0-62mph takes 8.0 seconds.

Its suspension is quite sophisticated, with a multi-link rear setup that incorporates the electric motor. This is said to reduce weight by 19 percent.

How roomy is the new Leapmotor B10?

The new Leapmotor B10 measures 4515mm in length, making it a little larger than a Ford Explorer (4,470mm) or Renault Scenic E-Tech (4,468mm).

This is said to pay dividends inside, with the B10 offering ‘the largest passenger space in the segment, with 2,390mm from the rear seats to the front footwells’. Front and rear headroom is also class-leading.

The boot seems a little on the small side with the seats up, though, at 430 litres. This grows to 1,700 litres with the seats folded.

What does the Leapmotor boss say?

“Our mission from the outset was to be the best value for money EV brand in the UK by delivering the highest level of specification and the highest level of technology, all as standard,” said Leapmotor UK MD Damien Dally.

“And now we’re bringing that offering to the hugely popular family SUV market.

“The Leapmotor B10 is anther pillar of that bold promise. The car is extremely competitively priced and is jam-packed with high levels of technology on one simple, well-specified trim, making it easier than ever for drivers to make the switch to electric.”

Orders for the new Leapmotor B10 open later in October, with the first deliveries expected from early December.

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A budget Audi RS3? Cupra reveals five-cylinder Formentor VZ5

By

John Redfern

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October 9, 2025

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The limited-edition Cupra Formentor VZ5 will make use of a 390hp turbocharged five-cylinder engine

The Cupra Formentor SUV will gain a new range-topping model powered by Audi’s turbocharged five-cylinder engine.

Cupra previously offered the Formentor VZ5 as a limited-edition model back in 2021. At the time, it was intended as a final halo offering before the Spanish brand pivoted to electrification.

However, when the VZ5 first arrived in the UK, cars were only available in left-hand drive.

Now, more than four years later, the VZ5 is making a comeback, with right-hand drive models included as part of the planned production run.

Five cylinders of fun

There is no explanation for Cupra’s change of heart, so we can only assume someone uncovered a stockpile of 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged Audi engines to slot into the Formentor once again.

Generating 390hp and 354lb ft of torque, the sonorous five-cylinder engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. All-wheel drive is standard, with an integrated torque splitter for extra agility.

Other upgrades for the fastest Formentor include a bespoke front bumper, a front splitter with a VZ5 logo, widened wheelarches and large rear diffuser housing copper-coloured tailpipes.

Model-specific 20-inch alloy wheels are fitted, along with Cupra bucket seats and ambient lighting for the interior. Paint options will span a range of matt and metallic colours, intended to highlight the ‘crossover SUV’s aggressive aesthetic’.

‘Commitment to performance and emotion’

Sven Schuwirth, executive vice-president for sales at Cupra, said: “The return of the Cupra Formentor VZ5 is a bold statement of our commitment to performance and emotion. With its iconic five-cylinder engine, this model embodies the essence of Cupra — daring, unconventional and driven by passion.

“For the first time, the Cupra Formentor VZ5 will be available in both left- and right-hand drive, opening the door to car enthusiasts in markets such as the UK.”

Production of the Formentor VZ5 will be capped at 4,000 examples worldwide, with the first completed models expected to leave the line in early 2026.

More details on how many VZ5s will be allocated to the UK, along with prices, will be announced closer to the start of production.

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Skoda celebrates 130 years with the fastest Fabia ever

By

John Redfern

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October 9, 2025

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The fastest road-going Skoda Fabia to date will be available later this month, priced from £29,995

This year sees Skoda reach its 130th anniversary – and the Czech marque is celebrating with a special edition Fabia.

Based on the range-topping Monte Carlo, the new Fabia 130 becomes the fastest production version of the Skoda supermini.

Inspired by Skoda’s decades of rallying success, the design and engineering of the Fabia 130 was undertaken by the brand’s Technical Development team.

It marks the first Fabia hot hatch in more than a decade, following the demise of the second-generation vRS model.

Fabia engages Sport mode

Powering the Fabia 130 is an enhanced version of Skoda’s turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 177hp and 184lb ft of torque.

With a 27hp boost over the regular Monte Carlo, the Fabia 130 now accelerates from 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds. Top speed is 142mph.

Skoda has revised the dual-clutch transmission so the Fabia holds onto more revs when upshifting. It also makes faster downshifts when Sport mode is engaged.

The Fabia 130’s suspension has been lowered by 15mm, giving a bolder stance on 18-inch ‘Libra’ alloy wheels.

Big performance, big price

Buyers will have a choice of four exterior colours for the Fabia 130: Moon White, Velvet Red, Race Blue and Black Magic. All come with a gloss black roof and mirror caps.

A subtle front splitter and rear diffuser are fitted, along with a more substantial roof spoiler and dual-tailpipe exhaust system. Skoda has added ‘130’ badges to the boot and front wings for good measure.

Inside, sports seats are combined with a three-spoke steering wheel and stainless steel pedals. Grey and black decorative trim is found on the dashboard, with special ‘Fabia 130’ sill tread plates.

As the top model in Skoda’s supermini range, the Fabia 130 will command a premium price, costing from £29,995.

Skoda dealerships will begin accepting orders for the hottest Fabia from 30 October 2025.

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Tesla reveals cut-price Model 3 and Model Y

By

John Redfern

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October 8, 2025

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The Tesla Model Y Standard will cost from $39,990, and come with an official range of 321 miles

Tesla has launched lower-priced versions of the Model 3 and Model Y in the USA. The new models are intended to turn around the company’s struggling sales.

Following a 12 percent drop in vehicles sold during the second quarter of 2025, Tesla is making an attempt to win back customers.

Although the American marque was expected to reveal a low-cost version of the Model Y SUV, the cheaper Model 3 sedan came as a surprise.

Tesla’s reductions will help offset the impact of the U.S. government ending federal EV tax credits. These previously reduced prices by $7,500 (£5,500).

Model 3 cut back to the EV essentials

In the United States, the Model 3 Standard will cost $36,990 (£27,500), representing a $5,500 (£4,100) saving over the rest of the range.

On the outside, the Model 3 Standard has 18-inch Prismata wheels and a choice of just three paint finishes.

A stripped-out approach is taken to the interior, with cloth upholstery, a manually adjustable steering wheel, and no FM radio or rear touchscreen. Following recent revisions, the Model 3 will also come with indicator stalks in place of touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel.

Tesla has not confirmed full technical details, but the Model 3 Standard offers an official range of 321 miles based on EPA testing.

No glass ceiling to Model Y ownership

The new Tesla Model Y Standard costs $39,990 (£29,750), undercutting Premium trim by $5,000 (£3,700), and offering a battery range of 321 miles.

A similar pared-back strategy has been applied here, with the panoramic glass roof removed, along with the FM radio and subwoofer for the sound system.

Cloth upholstery is used inside, and there are manual side mirrors and a manually adjustable steering wheel. When it comes to climate control, there is no longer a HEPA filter to provide protection against bioweapons.

Owners of both the Model 3 and Model Y in Standard trim will have to use their smartphone to lock and unlock their car. No physical key is provided.

Tesla intends to release lower-priced cars for other worldwide markets, with more details expected soon.

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Munro is the bold new car company from Scotland

By

John Redfern

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October 7, 2025

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The Scottish-built Munro EV M-Series all-electric 4x4 is aimed at customers in the mining, defence, and construction sector

Volume car production will return to Scotland for the first time in more than five decades.

Glasgow-based Munro has announced a £2 million investment from Elbow Beach Capital, allowing it to increase production capacity.

With 246 existing orders for the M-Series electric 4×4 already placed, the extra injection of cash will help Munro speed up its plans to deliver completed vehicles.

The current order bank is worth more than £17 million. Increasing Munro’s manufacturing capacity is expected to generate 300 new jobs at its Glasgow facility.

Helping industry to decarbonise

Earlier this year, Munro delivered the first completed examples of the M-Series. Denbighshire Council in North Wales and the Gleneagles Hotel resort in Scotland both took delivery of the electric off-roader.

The company is now targeting annual production of up to 5,000 vehicles, primarily aimed at the mining, defence and construction sectors.

Munro says that while the electrification of passenger vehicles has accelerated rapidly, the commercial 4×4 sector remains largely dependent on diesel.

Munro’s targeted industries are noted as being under pressure to ‘decarbonise operations’, with mining alone responsible for 4-7 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Proudly made in Scotland

The Munro M-Series is offered with two powertrain options, and comes with permanent all-wheel drive as standard. Customers have a choice of three body styles: utility van, pickup truck and a chassis cab intended for conversions.

When fully charged, the Munro EV’s 85kWh battery pack provides a range of around 170 miles. It offers a payload capacity of more than 1,000kg, too.

Prices for the M-Series start at £75,995 excluding VAT. A host of options allow the electric off-roader to be tailored to specific business needs.

Following the announcement of new investment, CEO of Munro EV Russel Peterseon said: “This investment validates the critical need for zero-emission solutions in heavy industry.

“Mining companies, defence interests and construction firms are actively seeking alternatives to diesel-powered vehicles, both to meet sustainability targets and reduce operational costs. The M-Series delivers on both fronts without compromising the performance these industries demand.”

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The UK is now BYD’s biggest market outside China

By

Richard Aucock

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October 7, 2025

0

The BYD Atto 2 small electric SUV is the firm's most recent new car launch. Prices start from £30,850

Chinese giant BYD is celebrating record September registrations that made the UK its biggest international market outside China for the first time.

With 11,271 cars delivered last month, BYD registrations rocketed by 880 percent year-on-year.

Notably, this means BYD outsold well-known brands such as Renault, Mini, Mazda, Honda and Dacia. The company also shifted more cars than EV arch-rival Tesla last month – becoming the UK’s second best-selling brand for electric cars.

So far in 2025, BYD has sold more than 35,000 vehicles in the UK, giving it a 2.2 percent share of the overall market.

Its September market share was a heady 3.6 percent, highlighting its fast-accelerating sales.

Seal U DM-i in sixth place

The Seal U DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV even earned itself a position in the top 10 new car best-sellers chart. With a sixth-place spot, it outsold the Hyundai Tucson, MG HS, Volkswagen Golf and Volvo XC40.

“I am so proud of our team and retailer partners,” said BYD UK country manager Bono Ge.

“This is 100 percent their result and is testament to their continued hard work and determination in driving BYD forwards and spreading the word about our brand up and down the country. To become the largest overseas market for BYD… makes me immensely proud.”

Ge added that the product pipeline will include more BYD EVs and plug-in hybrid cars to be launched in the coming months. BYD has also just celebrated its 100th UK retailer opening.

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Book your free ride in this orchard-themed Vegas limo

By

John Redfern

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October 6, 2025

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The Las Vegas strip is no stranger to outlandish limousines, but a truly unique creation will hit the street this October.

Created to promote the new Blazin’ Apple flavor of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, the “Orchard Overdrive” is anything but subtle.

Based on a stretched Hummer, this high-riding green limousine measures some 14 feet in length, with an elaborate design both inside and out.

For those who want to grab attention in Sin City, Orchard Overdrive will be available to book for free hour-long rides later in the month.

Branching out in Sin City

Featuring a neon green livery, Orchard Overdrive comes complete with an elaborate display of apple trees on its roof.

There is also a bespoke hood ornament depicting the Fireball Whisky mascot holding an apple. The orchard theme continues inside the Hummer, too.

“Fireball has always thrived where nights ignite and fun blazes brightest – and there’s no better stage than Las Vegas,” said Danny Suich, brand director for Fireball. “To launch Blazin’ Apple, we didn’t just want an orchard – we wanted one that could keep pace with the Strip.

“We took a typical orchard and turned it into Vegas’ ultimate spin. This bookable experience is as flashy as the Vegas marquees, as tasty as a fresh apple orchard in fall, and bursting with personality that goes toe-to-toe with the city’s energy.”

Make others green with envy

Starting from 10am EST on Wednesday 8 October 2025, anyone aged over 21 can book a ride in Orchard Overdrive through a dedicated website.

The 60-minute experience will be completely free, with space for up to eight people inside the bright green limo. Appropriately, Fireball Blazin’ Apple shots will be provided, along with Fireball-branded merchandise.

Want to explore the streets of Las Vegas? Slots will be available between 1pm and 1am, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

According to Fireball, there is no limit on what Orchard Overdrive can be used for. It could even serve as the most dramatic wedding car to arrive at a Vegas chapel…

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