Drivers risk £2,500 fine for fitting an unsafe roof box

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July 28, 2025

New research reveals a distinct lack of confidence from British drivers about using a car roof box.

Bringing extra storage space to already packed cars and SUVs, the popularity of staycations has made roof boxes a must-have accessory for many.

Ahead of the summer holiday season, eBay surveyed 2,000 motorists about their knowledge of fitting and securing a roof box.

However, while nearly a third (31 percent) of drivers now own a roof box, only 51 percent of them feel confident about fitting it securely.

Not everyone is boxing clever

Worryingly, just seven percent of respondents said they would check if a fully packed roof box was securely mounted before driving.

By comparison, almost three quarters (70 percent) of those surveyed said they would check their tyre pressures, with 62 percent monitoring oil and water levels.

Failing to secure a roof box could, as eBay notes, result in drivers contravening Section 40A of the Road Traffic Act 1988.

This can mean a fine of up to £2,500, along with the potential for three penalty points to be added to the driver’s licence.

‘Follow the instructions’

Despite this risk, just over half (58 percent) of those surveyed by eBay were aware of risking a fine or points for an insecure roof box.

With one fifth (22 percent) of drivers saying they would fit a roof box themselves, eBay has recommended ensuring that they at least purchase a box made for their car.

Abir Tewari, UK director of commercial operations for parts and accessories at eBay, said: “Roof racks, boxes and cycle racks are a great way to maximise luggage space for summer holiday road trips and eBay’s ‘My Garage’ function is specifically designed to put motorists at ease, by helping them find precisely the right accessory for their vehicle.

“Installation is often straightforward, but we advise motorists to take their time when fitting new accessories, follow the instructions and make sure their load is securely attached before setting off.”

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Interest in Leapmotor surges 2,675% after launch of EV ‘grant’

By

Richard Aucock

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July 28, 2025

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New Chinese brand Leapmotor has seen interest in its cars surge 2,675 per cent after quickly launching its own version of the government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG).

Leapmotor grabbed headlines after it promised to match the ECG of either £1,500 or £3,750.

The firm has taken £1,500 off the price of its entry-level Leapmotor T03, and cut £3,750 from the price of its Leapmotor C10 family SUV.

This has taken current leasing prices for the Leapmotor C10 down to an incredible £125 a month.

Leasing marketplace leasing.com says customers have responded accordingly to these low prices, with the 2,675 per cent increase in leasing enquiries coming in just a four-day period.

Notably, the government has still to release details of which cars will be eligible for the ECG – despite Leapmotor buyers already now benefitting from savings.

“Leapmotor has shown how agility and value can help a new brand cut through almost overnight,” said leasing.com CEO Mike Fazal.

“It’s jumped to the top of our leasing charts thanks to a smart pricing strategy and timely positioning.”

Renault repositioning

Renault has also responded to the ECG, which will only be available on cars priced below a threshold of £37,000.

Within 48 hours of the announcement, Renault cut the price of its Scenic E-Tech to below £37k – and leasing enquiries skyrocketed 9,575 per cent in less than a week.

Fazal describes Renault’s move as a “smart and timely reaction. These are savvy, data-informed responses to what drivers want: transparency, value and minimal friction”.

He also praised the government for implementing the new Electric Car Grant. “What’s really powerful about this scheme is that it gives consumers a reason to make the switch now, not later.

“Pair that with leasing, which already offers lower upfront costs and predicable monthly payments, and you’ve got a compelling route into EV adoption that works for real budgets.

“Many drivers still assume at EVs are too expensive, but with the right grant and the right lease deal, they’re often more affordable than a traditional petrol or diesel car.”

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Hyundai Elantra N TCR Edition brings racing style to the street

By

John Redfern

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July 25, 2025

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The Hyundai Elantra N TCR Edition has arrived in North America, becoming the most potent version of the performance sedan.

Initially revealed in November 2024, the Elantra N TCR Edition is a street-legal version of Hyundai’s successful touring car racer.

Campaigned by the Bryan Herta Autosport team, the racing Elantra N has claimed two IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge TCR championships since it was introduced.

Now, Hyundai has built upon the regular Elantra N sedan’s already proven ability to create the TCR Edition.

From the race track to the street

Hyundai has taken direct inspiration from the Elantra N racer, adding the huge carbon fiber swan-neck rear spoiler to the street car.

A set of black 19-inch N TCR forged alloy wheels are also included, continuing the motorsport theme.

N Performance brakes, including four-piston monoblock calipers at the front with two-piece rotors, are another exclusive feature.

The trunk includes a special “TCR Edition” badge, helping explain the gigantic spoiler to other drivers. The same logo is projected onto the floor when the doors are opened.

Championship-winning performance

More special equipment can be found inside, with the steering wheel, parking brake handle, and gear shifter all wrapped in Alcantara. Blue seat belts and N Performance carpets are included, too.

Hyundai has left the Elantra N’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine unchanged, meaning up to 286 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. Customers can pick from a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

There is a catch, however. At present, there is no word from Hyundai USA on the Elantra N TCR Edition coming to the United States.

It means the motorsport-inspired special edition will for now, be exclusive to the Canadian market. Prices start from CAD $47,599 (equivalent to USD $34,900).

Made for the Canadian Hyundai N community

To celebrate the launch of the Elantra N TCR Edition in Canada, a dedicated event will be held at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Ontario during August.

Along with celebrating the launch of the Elantra N TCR Edition, the gathering will also commemorate the 10th anniversary of Hyundai’s N performance sub-brand.

“The N brand is not just about performance, it’s about the passion for driving and the community that it creates,” said Michael Ricciuto, director of product and corporate strategy at Hyundai Canada.

“The 2026 Elantra N TCR Edition is a testament to our commitment to delivering track-level excitement for the everyday driving enthusiast. We are incredibly proud of the vibrant N community in Canada and are thrilled to celebrate this milestone with them.”

Fingers crossed the Elantra N TCR Edition makes a move south of the border in the near future…

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New Mercedes-Benz CLA allows Teams video calls while driving

By

John Redfern

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July 25, 2025

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A collaboration with Microsoft sees Mercedes-Benz become the first car manufacturer to offer video meetings while driving.

The recently revealed Mercedes-Benz CLA makes use of the marque’s latest MB OS operating system, which allows access to the Microsoft Meetings for Teams app.

This will work with the CLA’s built-in camera, allowing drivers to participate in Teams meetings while the vehicle is in motion.

Further plans will see the integration of Microsoft’s 365 Copilot function into the CLA, making it one of the first cars to use generative Artificial Intelligence (AI).

No more skipping Teams meetings

To transform the CLA into a mobile office, Mercedes-Benz will integrate the Microsoft Meetings for Teams app with the car’s built-in hardware.

The camera means drivers will be visible to other meeting participants. However, to abide with road traffic legislation, the driver will not be able to see video footage of other participants when the vehicle is in motion.

As a result, drivers will be spared from viewing shared screens or PowerPoint presentations on the move. The in-car camera can also be turned off if desired.

A new application dashboard shows upcoming ‘Next Meetings’, along with allowing access to frequent contacts. Revised chat functions will help drivers to compose messages with voice commands, and also update calendar entries.

A truly mobile office

Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft are now collaborating on plans to integrate the 365 Copilot AI software into future operating systems.

Using AI, Mercedes-Benz hopes drivers will be able to prepare for meetings by having emails summarised, be given details of clients, and manage other administrative tasks while on the move.

Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said: “Through our industry-leading collaboration with Microsoft, we are making it even easier for our customers to stay productive while on the move.

“By integrating the latest Microsoft workspace tools, such as Microsoft Teams, directly into our new operating system, MB OS, we’ve created an intuitive and safe user experience that boosts efficiency and reduces distractions at the same time.”

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Acura and Honda EV drivers can now use Tesla Superchargers

By

John Redfern

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July 25, 2025

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Owners of Honda and Acura electric vehicles now have access to the Tesla Supercharging network across the United States.

This means drivers with a Honda Prologue or Acura ZDX electric SUV can fast-charge at more than 23,500 Tesla Superchargers.

Follow Motoring Research

Honda has tested and approved a DC charging adapter, which allows the Prologue and ZDX to connect to the Tesla devices.

The new adapter allows the Tesla Supercharger NACS (North American Charging System) cable to join up with the Honda or Acura CCS charging port.

Get ready for a summer road trip

“Planning a road trip just got a lot easier for our Honda and Acura EV owners with access to the Tesla Supercharger network,” said Ryan Harty, assistant vice president of sustainability and business development at American Honda Motor Company.

“Combined with other growing charging networks, Honda and Acura EV drivers now have added peace of mind with a wider range of dependable DC fast charging options nationwide.”

Customers can purchase the new, Honda-approved NACS-CCS DC fast-charging adapter from authorized Honda and Acura dealerships in the United States.

Alternatively, the adapter is availabledirectly through the online Honda DreamShop, with a suggested retail price of $225.

More charging options available

Along with allowing Honda and Acura EV owners to use Tesla Superchargers, the new adapter allows access to other DC networks that use NACS connections.

Honda warns EV owners against using third-party adapters, even if these may be cheaper to purchase. The company says damage to an EV resulting from the use of an unofficial adapter may not be covered under warranty.

Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX owners can use the standard Google Maps built-in navigation system to locate authorized Tesla Superchargers.

Initially, the Tesla smartphone app will be required for Honda and Acura EV owners to start charging from a Tesla Supercharger. However, Honda is currently updating its own apps to enable plug-and-charge capability.

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New BTCC rules to encourage more cars and engines onto the grid

By

John Redfern

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July 24, 2025

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The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) has confirmed new technical regulations to start from 2027.

Although the Next Generation Touring Car (NGTC) specification will continue to be used, the BTCC hopes to make it easier for new teams to enter the championship.

A loosening of the current engine rules should also help race teams to share development costs and enable greater performance parity.

Taking effect for the 2027 season, the revised NGTC rules will be in place for five years until the end of 2031.

More variety of cars on-track

At present, the BTCC limits teams to car models that have been sold in the UK. However rule changes will broaden this to cover solely the vehicle brand from 2027.

It means that, providing a brand sells cars in the UK, teams can race with any model made by that marque around the world. Size guidelines and the requirement to have an internal combustion engine will remain.

With the UK vehicle market now dominated by sales of SUVs, the retreat of hatchbacks and saloons from the marketplace has affected BTCC teams, reducing the range of vehicles suitable for racing.

Championship organisers believe this change will provide ‘teams with greater flexibility and availability in choosing models that fit their goals’, along with allowing fans to watch new vehicles compete.

A British motorsport success story

The new 2027 NGTC rules will also unlink cars and engines, permitting greater choice amongst teams. A team racing a Hyundai car could, for example, use an engine originally developed for a BMW.

Registered BTCC engine builders will also be bound to supply any team with engines when asked, albeit capped at 50 percent of the grid. The TOCA customer engine will remain available uncapped to all teams.

The BTCC ditched its use of hybrid assisted engines for the 2025 season, switching to sustainable fuel instead.

Alan Gow, chief executive of the BTCC, said: “We’re pleased to announce the BTCC’s technical regulations for the next five-year cycle, to commence in 2027. I thank all our teams for their invaluable input over the last two years to bring them to fruition.

“We value these successful regulations, which will have largely been in place for almost 20 years at the conclusion of this next cycle. The BTCC technical regulations, like the BTCC itself, is a true British success story.”

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Vauxhall Mokka GSE brings electric rally performance to the road

By

John Redfern

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July 24, 2025

0

The fastest battery-powered Vauxhall ever has been revealed: behold the rally-inspired Mokka GSE.

Following the debut of the motorsport-spec Mokka GSE Rally earlier this year, the production version of the hot electric SUV is here.

With a name that places a modern, electrified twist on the classic Vauxhall GSi badge, expectations will be high for the Mokka GSE.

It’s also the latest EV inspired by rallying; the new Alpine A290 Rallye racer was displayed at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.

High-voltage performance

A single electric motor sends 280hp and 254lb ft of torque to the front wheels of the Mokka GSE, aided by a Torsen limited-slip differential. The electric Vauxhall can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 124mph.

All the high-voltage components, such as the electric motor, inverter, wiring harness and 54kWh battery pack come directly from the Mokka GSE Rally. There is no mention of range or charging time for the road car yet, however.

Vauxhall expects a kerb weight of less than 1,600kg. In electric SUV terms at least, that makes the Mokka GSE a relatively light car. New ‘double hydraulic’ shock absorbers, a wider track and stiffer axles should improve its handling, too.

A set of 20-inch aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels are fitted, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres. Performance brakes are supplied by Alcon, with 380mm front discs gripped by four-piston bright yellow calipers.

More details later in 2025

Vauxhall has kept the cosmetic changes relatively subtle, with remodelled front and rear bumpers, plus a smattering of yellow and black GSE logos.

The yellow and black theme continues inside, with Alcantara sports seats that feature integrated headrests. More Alcantara trim is found on the door inserts, along with a squared-off steering wheel and aluminium pedals.

Updates for the 10.0-inch digital instrument panel and central touchscreen include the addition of GSE graphics. Performance data, G-force levels and battery status can all be shown on dedicated displays.

Prices and UK specifications for the Mokka GSE have yet to be confirmed. Vauxhall will release more details later this year, including when we can expect to see the new GSE on sale.

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Staycation summer: UK drivers want a road trip holiday this year

By

John Redfern

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July 24, 2025

0

New research reveals that having a UK-based ‘staycation’ remains a top choice for British holidaymakers in 2025.

A survey of motorists by Skoda found that almost two thirds (61 percent) were considering a UK road trip. The chance to be spontaneous about where they visit and stay was a big part of the appeal.

More than half (52 percent) of survey respondents said they want to be more adventurous and explore places they have never experienced before.

Also, 37 percent explained that a road trip would allow them to incorporate seeing friends and family into the holiday.

A cost-effective holiday

Ongoing cost of living challenges remain one of the biggest factors for survey respondents thinking about a UK road trip. Exactly a third (33 percent) said driving was a more affordable option than flying.

This came despite some long distances being considered, with more than half (55 percent) saying they would be happy to travel more than 300 miles for a road trip. Impressively, seven percent said driving in excess of 1,001 miles would be acceptable to them.

Skoda’s survey found that good snacks were an important factor in a successful road trip, though, with 34 percent saying this was an essential consideration.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, good weather was important to more than two thirds (68 percent) of respondents. Scenic routes mattered to 64 percent, with 53 percent saying the in-car company was important as well.

Head for the Highlands and the islands

When it came to the top locations, the picturesque Scottish Highlands were the most desirable, with 42 percent wanting to experience them on a road trip.

The Lake District was next, on 40 percent, followed by the Yorkshire Dales on 36 percent, then the Isle of Skye and St Ives in Cornwall (both on 35 percent).

Skoda found that 13 percent of drivers expressed an interest in fitting a roof tent, and one third (36 percent) would tackle more trips if they had one.

To demonstrate potential options, Skoda equipped two Octavia vRS Estates with Tentbox Lite roof tents. A Czech-designed EGOE box camping unit has also been installed in the Octavia Estate’s 640-litre boot.

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The Hyundai Ioniq 9 electric SUV is reforesting with drones

By

John Redfern

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July 23, 2025

0

Hyundai has developed a version of its new Ioniq 9 electric SUV to help repair areas of forest damaged by wildfire.

The custom Hyundai Ioniq 9 Seed Ball Drone Station turns the three-row SUV into a base for accessing remote areas of South Korea’s East Coast.

It follows Hyundai’s previous build of a drone monitoring station in 2023, which used a Ioniq 5 electric SUV to track reforesting efforts.

The new project in Uljin, South Korea, is one of Hyundai’s forestry schemes across 13 different countries, including the United States.

The all-terrain mobile office

In 2024, Hyundai entered into a five-year partnership with the Korea National Arboreta and Gardens Institute, a subsidiary of the Korea Forest Service.

This has led to building the bespoke Ioniq 9 Seed Ball Drone Station, which makes use of the flagship SUV’s spacious interior.

The Ioniq 9’s rear cabin has been transformed to host a swivel seat, dual monitors and a dedicated drone operation PC. Having a functional mobile office allows for reforesting work to be targeted more accurately.

In addition, the Ioniq 9’s vehicle-to-load (V2L) system means the Seed Ball Drone can be charged directly from the SUV’s own high-voltage battery.

A global forestry challenge

The Ioniq 9’s off-road ability allows the team to travel directly to areas that require reforesting. Once charged, the Seed Ball Drone can then be flown to locations that would be difficult to be access.

The drone disperses a number of seed balls while in the air. Clay spheres that contain a mixture of soil, organic matter and seeds, are dropped directly onto the ground in need of reforesting.

Hyundai hopes that by being able to disperse a wide number of seed balls rapidly across affected areas, reforesting efforts in Uljin will be faster than by using traditional methods.

The Uljin reforestation will contribute to Hyundai’s Ioniq Forest project, a global scheme launched in 2016, which encompasses countries such as Brazil, Vietnam and the United States.

Hyundai plans to roll-out its Ioniq-based drone stations to these forest projects in the near future.

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Revealed: the car paint colours that lose the most value

Revealed: the car paint colors that lose value the most

By

John Redfern

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July 23, 2025

0

Your choice of paint color for your next car could impact more than just how it looks, based on a study of vehicle depreciation.

Research compared the value lost by the 10 best-selling vehicles in the United States, matching this against five widely available paint colors.

To compile the data, NexusMedia used the EasySearch tool for Shopify, analyzing the depreciation of each color on SUVs, sedans, EVs, and trucks.

From the analysis, blue emerged as the color likely to lose owners the most money, averaging 27.11 percent in depreciation. This was equivalent to $12,449 in value lost.

Don’t go getting the blues

Depreciation for blue paint was not even across the 10 vehicles studied, of course. While a Honda CR-V loses 19.44 percent of its value, a Ford F-150 would depreciate by 42.57 percent in the same hue.

Black was rated as the second-worst color for depreciation, averaging a loss of 23.30 percent, or $10,084 across a five-year period.

Red claimed third place, losing 21.68 percent on average, equivalent to $8,776. It was closely followed by silver paint, at 21.32 percent – a value of $8,232.

Although white bodywork may not seem particularly exciting, it is the shade most resistant to depreciation. As the most stable paint color, white loses just 18.02 percent on average, seeing a loss of $7,067.

Making a lifestyle statement

The study also highlighted the startling differences paint color can have on particular vehicles. A white Tesla Model Y was found to lose an average of 0.83 percent in value, while opting for black saw the car’s value drop by 51.65 percent.

A spokesperson from NexusMedia commented on the study: “Car depreciation has evolved from a predictable financial reality into a complex interplay of psychology, technology, and market perception.

“While consumers focus on practical factors like mileage and maintenance, subtle aesthetic choices, including color, increasingly influence long-term value retention in ways that defy logical market behavior.

“This reflects a broader shift where vehicles are no longer purely functional assets but lifestyle statements, where even minor visual characteristics can significantly impact financial outcomes years after purchase, creating unexpected winners and losers in the resale market.”

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