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New 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 revealed – including option of rear seats

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Porsche 911 GT3 2024

Say Guten Tag to the new 911 GT3. The most hardcore, track-focused version of Porsche’s iconic sports car has received a mid-life makeover, with revised aero, a shorter final-drive ratio and more lightweight parts. Plus the option of rear seats for the first time.

The updated, fourth-generation GT3 – known as the 992.2 to Porsche nerds – will be launched in both regular and Touring specifications when order books open later this year. The standard car has a huge swan-neck spoiler, while the Touring has a flat rear deck for a cleaner, classic 911 look.

We sampled the outgoing 911 GT3 Touring in 2021, describing it as ‘a supercar you could conceivably drive every day’. So what exactly has changed for 2025?

Paddles or stick

Porsche 911 GT3 2024

Firstly, there’s no more power. Porsche has previously acknowledged that, in order to meet emissions requirements, the 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six is close to its full potential. Spikier camshafts from the 911 GT3 RS provide a greater rush at high revs, but maximum power stays at 510hp. The GT3’s searing 9,000rpm redline remains unchanged, too.

Using Launch Control, that means 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 193mph. Opt for the six-speed manual gearbox instead of a dual-clutch PDK automatic and the figures are 3.9 seconds and 194mph respectively.

Whether you choose a stick or paddles, though, all versions of the 992.2 GT3 have an eight percent shorter final drive ratio for improved acceleration.

Fast family fun

Porsche 911 GT3 2024

In terms of exterior design, the 2024 GT3 features reshaped front and rear diffusers, new Matrix LED headlights – now with an optional white accent ring – and a revised underbody for improved downforce. The winged model (the white car pictured here) now has angled sideplates on its spoiler.

Inside, there are new folding sports seats made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). A ‘Track Screen’ mode switches the digital displays on either side of the rev counter to key data on oil, water, fuel and tyres – and features a ‘shift flash’ for optimal timing of upshifts. It can also be rotated so the 9,000rpm limiter is in the 12 o’clock position.

The big news about the 911’s interior, though, is the option of rear seats in Touring-spec models. A supercar for the family? That might be pushing it, particularly if your children are beyond primary school age, but the ability to carry four people is an exciting new GT3 USP.

Seeing the light

Porsche 911 GT3 Touring 2024

Porsche has never been shy about layering on extra-cost options, and the 992.2 offers more potential for customisation than ever before. The Weissach package – previously available on the GT3 RS only – includes numerous parts made from lightweight CFRP, from the roof panel to the interior door handles. Suede-like Race-Tex is used extensively throughout the interior, including on the upper side of the dashboard to reduce glare. A CFRP roll cage and forged magnesium wheels are further options.

The equivalent for the 911 GT3 Touring is called the Leichtbau package. This includes the magnesium rims and some CFRP parts, along with the shortened manual gear lever from the limited-edition 911 S/T. A ‘Leichtbau’ plaque on the centre console gives the game away.

For the GT3 with a rear wing, a track-oriented Clubsport package is available at no extra charge. It comes with a steel rear roll cage, six-point harness belts for the driver and a fire extinguisher.

Join the queue

Porsche 911 GT3 Touring 2024

As ever, getting a GT3 allocation means you will probably need to be on first-name terms with your local Porsche dealership. For those at the front of the queue, however, the latest updates should further hone an already ‘exotic and immersive’ driving experience (to quote our GT3 Touring review again).

Prices start at £157,300, with the Weissach package adding £19,530 – or £15,597 without the roll cage. The Leichtbau package for the GT3 Touring costs £29,225, but includes the magnesium wheels (a hefty £13,760 extra on the winged GT3). 

Stay tuned for a review of the new Porsche 992.2 GT3 on Motoring Research early next year. Our first five-star car of 2025? Don’t bet against it.

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More than a quarter of van drivers injured when loading vehicles

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Van Driver Loading Injuries

New research by Volkswagen reveals that more than a quarter (28 percent) of UK van drivers were injured when loading their vehicles in 2023. 

The vast majority of those injured (88 percent) found themselves having to take time off work as a result. This represents a six percent increase in injury-related absence versus the previous year.

Of even greater concern is the length of time van drivers are needing to take off due to injury.

This period now averages 5.79 days, an increase of 17 percent compared to 2022. And one-in-10 drivers have taken more than 13 days off due to a loading-related injury.

How to load your van safely

Van Driver Loading Injuries

The cost of such time off is considerable – estimated at £550 per van each day a driver is injured.

Given the potential personal and financial impacts of being injured at work, Volkswagen recommends that all van drivers should be trained and equipped to load their vehicles properly. 

Advice from the Health and Safety Executive on manual handling says:

  1. Planning the lift, making sure you know the route you’ll take and whether there are any obstacles
  2. Break up the load into manageable chunks, or ask a colleague for support with large or awkwardly-shaped objects, using lifting aids where possible
  3. Engage your legs to lift an object, driving up from a squat or lunge position to protect the rest of your body
  4. Avoid twisting your body when you lift a heavy item. Instead, lift the item and use your legs to turn as needed

Sticking to van weight limits

Van Driver Loading Injuries

Volkswagen’s survey of van drivers did uncover some positive news, however. In 2022, a similar survey showed that just over half (52 percent) of drivers were adhering to the legal weight limit when loading their vehicles. 

A year later, this had increased to almost three-quarters (70 percent) of Britain’s van drivers.

In addition, 94 percent said they are now aware of the weight limit rules. Fines can be issued for overloading a van by as little as five percent.

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Skoda Enyaq RS Race is an extreme EV influenced by rallying

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Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept

Skoda Motorsport has transformed the electric Enyaq Coupe iV vRS into a one-off, rally-inspired monster.

The Skoda Enyaq RS Race is chiefly a pilot project to demonstrate how lightweight and sustainable materials could be used in future production cars

However, it’s also about having fun, combining a relatively sensible electric SUV coupe with rally car-style engineering.

Skoda has no shortage of experience in motorsport. The Fabia RS has dominated the Rally2 category in recent years, with more than 1,700 class wins since 2010.

Simplify, then add lightness

Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept

Channelling Skoda’s rallying know-how into the Enyaq Coupe sees the bodywork widened by 72mm at the front and 116mm at the rear. A gigantic new rear spoiler is added, along with a vortex generator on the car’s roof.

The science part comes in how these new aerodynamic elements are made. They use a sustainable lightweight material that is woven from flax fibres. 

These biocomposite elements are said to have a lower environmental impact than carbon fibre. Similar materials were tested on a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 concept car. 

For the Skoda Enyaq RS Race, the result is 316kg slashed from the kerb weight of this electric SUV coupe. A fully stripped-out interior, along with polycarbonate side and rear windows, also helped with the crash diet.

Together in electric dreams

Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept

Skoda Motorsport has left the powertrain unchanged, but added competition-spec suspension and carbon ceramic brakes with 10-piston calipers at the front. 

There is even a rally-style hydraulic handbrake to help tackle the tightest hairpin bends.

The RS Race has the same 112mph top speed as the road-going Enyaq Coupe iV vRS. But reduced weight means its 0-62mph time tumbles to less than five seconds.

Inside, Skoda Motorsport engineers have added the pedal box from the Fabia RS Rally2, along with bucket seats and a new steering wheel.

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Hot Wheels releases official, limited edition Formula 1 car

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Hot Wheels Formula One

A collaboration between Hot Wheels and Formula 1 has led to the launch of a new die-cast car collection.

A 1:64-scale interpretation of a modern Formula 1 car is the starting point for the new partnership, with more Hot Wheels F1 models set to follow soon. 

Emily Prazer, chief commercial officer of Formula 1, said: “The exciting collaboration will bring together the adrenaline of motor racing and the excitement of toy cars and provide opportunities to see the fine details that go into an F1 car, all in the palm of your hand. 

“It’s more than just a partnership; it’s a celebration of speed, creativity and innovation that will bring fans a new way to engage with the sport.”

Three sets of tyres supplied

Hot Wheels Formula One

The Hot Wheels model has been influenced by current technical regulations in Formula 1, so it’s a generic race car, rather than one that represents a specific constructor

A bespoke Hot Wheels livery includes the number ‘68’ on the nose cone – a deliberate nod to the year the toy manufacturer was founded. 

Each car comes with three different sets of replica Pirelli slick tyres, representing the compounds (hard, medium and soft) typically used during a race weekend.  

Knowing that many buyers will put their Hot Wheels model on display, the Formula 1 car also has a ‘Kar Keepers’ clamshell case to keep it safe.

Bringing enthusiasts together

Hot Wheels Formula One

“Hot Wheels has always been about nurturing the challenger spirit, so the partnership with Formula 1 is a natural and exciting fit,” said Roberto Stanichi, executive vice president at Hot Wheels. “It will bring two of the largest global fan communities together, to share their passion for cars and racing.

“In collaboration with Formula 1, we have put together a program that allows kids to replicate the thrill of F1 racing where they can drive like the pros. It engages with our loyal communities on a global scale.”

Fans are able to pre-order the Hot Wheels Formula 1 car directly from Mattel now. Priced at £24 in the UK, deliveries should take place before the end of June 2025.

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Dacia goes large with new family-sized Bigster SUV

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New Dacia Bigster

The largest model in Dacia’s history has been unveiled. Aptly named the ‘Bigster’, the new Dacia is designed to tackle mountains, the school run and the all-important C-SUV sector, taking on big sellers such as the Kia Sportage.

With a focus on helping drivers tackle ‘spiralling costs’, the Bigster takes the traditional Dacia strengths of affordability and practicality, then scales them upwards. 

Its distinctive styling is reminiscent of the latest Duster SUV. Dacia also promises ‘real off-road ability’, thanks to the Bigster sharing the Duster’s CMF-B platform.

Built tough for the real world

New Dacia Bigster

Dacia has used its ‘Starkle’ material for the lower bodywork and wheelarch surrounds: a robust and recycled plastic that is left untreated and unpainted. Factor in sturdy skid plates and it’s clear the Bigster is designed with rougher terrain in mind.

The Bigster comes with a choice of three powertrain options. These include the 1.6-litre Hybrid 155, which combines a petrol engine with electric motors for a total of 155hp. More powerful than the hybrid setup found in the Jogger or Duster, a 1.4kWh battery helps the Bigster run as an EV for up to 80 percent of city driving. 

A 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged TCe 140 petrol engine comes with mild-hybrid tech, and makes use of a six-speed manual gearbox. 

Alternatively, off-road aficionados will want the TCe 130 petrol 4×4. As its name suggests, this comes with Dacia’s all-wheel-drive system. A Terrain Control selector, with five driving modes, is included for good measure.

Big on space, big on kit

New Dacia Bigster

With a boot capacity of 667 litres with the rear seats in use, the Bigster offers more luggage space than a Nissan Qashqai or Hyundai Tucson. The rear bench splits 40-20-40 as standard, plus there is an electrically opening tailgate on the top-spec Journey trim.

The entry-level Bigster Expression comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone air conditioning, a 7.0-inch digital instrument panel, a 10.1-inch central infotainment touchscreen, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

The Extreme and Journey versions bring larger alloy wheels, a 10.0-inch digital instrument panel and satellite navigation to the party. 

A lengthy options list includes the Sleep Pack, with a fold-out double bed designed to lay inside the Bigster. Buyers can also add a roof rack, and even a bespoke tent to fit the rear of the SUV.

The most expensive Dacia to date

New Dacia Bigster

It is worth noting that the Bigster will be sold solely as a five-seat SUV. The Jogger thus remains the only way to transport seven people in a Dacia… for now. 

The Romanian brand has plans to release two more vehicles in the C-SUV segment, so the Bigster is only the beginning. Although UK prices have yet to be finalised, the Bigster should start from less than £30,000 when it goes on sale in 2025.

That will make it the priciest Dacia to date. However, the Bigster is likely to outperform its main rivals in terms of value for money.

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Hyundai and Toyota are holding their own motorsport festival

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Hyundai N versus Toyota Gazoo Racing

The performance divisions of Hyundai and Toyota have formed a partnership to host a unique motorsport festival.

Talking place at the Everland Speedway in South Korea, the Hyundai N x Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival will take place later this month.

Along with demonstrations of racing models, fans of both car manufacturers will be able to take part in track driving sessions

It marks an unusual move for two car brands that compete not only in the arena of performance road cars, but are also direct rivals in the World Rally Championship (WRC).

Stars of stage and street

Hyundai N versus Toyota Gazoo Racing

The morning of the festival will be devoted to track day activities, allowing owners of Hyundai N and Toyota GR vehicles access to the Everland Speedway. This will be followed by show runs, demonstrating new performance models from the two brands. 

Hyundai N will showcase rally cars from its WRC campaign, including the i20 N Rally 1 Hybrid and i20 N Rally 2. The cars will be driven by Hyundai Motorsport’s Thierry Neuville, Dani Sordo and Andreas Mikkelsen. 

The Pikes Peak record-setting Hyundai Ioniq 5 N TA Spec will also be present, along with the Ioniq 5 N and Elantra N production cars. 

Toyota will present its GR Yaris Rally 1 Hybrid, GR Yaris Rally 2, GR Supra and GR86, as well as other rally cars and high-performance models. Current Toyota WRC driver Takamoto Katsuta will be on hand, along with fellow members of the Toyota Gazoo Racing team. 

A hydrogen-fuelled Toyota Corolla AE86 H2 Concept will put a modern spin on a classic drift racer, too.

Fierce competition and friendship

Hyundai N versus Toyota Gazoo Racing

Hyundai has hosted motorsport-themed festivals in South Korea for two decades, but this marks the first time another car manufacturer has been involved. 

“We are excited to welcome the Toyota Gazoo Racing team, our competitors in the WRC, to Korea”, said Yeong Ho Lee, executive vice president of Hyundai Global Operations. 

“This event will emphasise the fierce competition and friendship that coexist in motorsport. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the pure passion for cars shared by both Hyundai and Toyota, as well as our commitment to further expand motorsport culture in the future.”

The message of collaboration was echoed by Manabu Konyama, CEO and president of Toyota Motor Korea, who added: “We’re glad that Hyundai N and Toyota Gazoo Racing, which are competitors in world motorsport, are working together to create an opportunity to enjoy car culture beyond motorsport”.

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You can now buy an Ohme electric car charger from Currys

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Currys Ohme EV Charging

A partnership between Currys and Ohme will see home EV chargers available to buy in stores.

Offering EV chargers directly to consumers represents a first for the electrical retailer, which has 298 stores spread across the UK. 

Ohme charging devices will initially be made available online by Currys. Sales will subsequently be rolled out across 50 of the company’s flagship stores.

Smart tech for cheaper charging

Currys Ohme EV Charging

Ohme currently offers two smart EV charging devices, both of which are designed to be compatible with tariffs from all energy providers.

New electric vehicle chargers sold since June 2022 must come with smart functions included. This allows the charger to connect with the electricity grid intelligently, meaning the user can take advantage of off-peak hours.

Making use of a 7p per kWh smart tariff would see a driver covering 6,800 miles a year pay just £119 a year for EV charging. By comparison, a 24.5p/kWh standard variable tariff would cost £416 for the same mileage.

Ohme also notes that driving the same distance in an equivalent petrol car would cost £1,100 in fuel.

‘A natural step’ for customers

Currys Ohme EV Charging

“With EV sales in the UK up more than 10 percent this year, this new partnership between Currys and Ohme chargers was a natural step to offer to our customers,” said Zoe Lucid, senior buyer at Currys. 

“Ohme’s award-winning chargers and reputation for excellent customer service meant it was the obvious choice for Currys’ customers, helping them to make more sustainable choices combined with cutting-edge technology.”

Ohme has become the official charging provider for the Volkswagen Group, Volvo Cars, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai in the UK. Buyers of new electric Vauxhalls can receive a free Ohme charger, too.

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Range Rover goes retro: Kingsley reveals Classic KSR restomod

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Kingsley KSR Range Rover Classic

Restoration specialist Kingsley Re-Engineered has announced a ‘fresh take’ on the original Range Rover.

The new Range Rover Classic KSR sees particular attention paid to the luxury SUV’s interior, along with selected performance upgrades. 

More than two decades of experience in upgrading the Range Rover Classic have been channelled into the KSR, described as the ‘most superior’ Kingsley creation to date.

Upwards of 500 Range Rovers and Land Rovers have been enhanced by Kingsley since 2001, with the Oxfordshire-based company now under new group ownership and management.

Enhanced and upgraded

Kingsley KSR Range Rover Classic

Kingsley will offer the Range Rover Classic KSR in both three- and five-door formats, making use of donor vehicles manufactured before 1993. 

Buyers can customise the KSR to their exact specification, with bespoke paint colours applied to the restored chassis and bodywork.

A 4.6-litre ‘High Torque’ V8 engine is standard, serving up 270hp and 310lb ft of torque. Combined with a four-speed automatic transmission, it accelerates the Range Rover from 0-60mph in 9.8 seconds. Top speed is more than 120mph.

Various Chevrolet small-block V8 engines and a manual gearbox are on the options list. A big brake kit and Kingsley’s new TracTive adaptive suspension, offering driver-selectable levels of damping, are both fitted as standard.

A re-engineered interior

Kingsley KSR Range Rover Classic

On the inside is where the KSR makes its biggest statement, featuring a new dashboard designed in-house by Kingsley. This includes a new instrument panel – and even a longer windscreen demister vent.

There is a digital display, but Kingsley has retained classic elements such as wood veneer, ensuring the KSR still feels like an original Range Rover. As with the exterior, extensive personalisation is possible.

Apple CarPlay connectivity is standard, along with integrated USB-A and USB-C charging ports. There are also cup holders for an extra touch of modernity.

Kingsley has updated the Range Rover Classic’s air conditioning system, too. Known as a weak point on the original car, the KSR should keep its occupants comfortable in all climates, while still retaining a traditional look.

‘Modernised without compromise’

Kingsley KSR Range Rover Classic

John Sawbridge, managing director of Kingsley Re-Engineered, commented: “The KSR represents a monumental leap forward, harnessing the unparalleled expertise of our extraordinarily talented 21-strong team and collaborating with the industry’s top-tier supply partners, all while answering our customers’ wishes and requests.

“The KSR is the ultimate embodiment of our groundbreaking vision for the future. We’ve completely modernised the Range Rover Classic without compromising an ounce of the timeless charm or beauty of this iconic car.”

Orders can now be placed for the KSR, with worldwide delivery available. Prices start from £264,000 including VAT – but before any personalisation, of course.

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Rolls-Royce reveals new Ghost Series II and sportier Black Badge

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Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

The 2024 Rolls-Royce Ghost has been unveiled, destined to be one of the last models from the British marque to use a V12 engine.

Rolls-Royce has committed to a battery-powered future, with a plan to build electric cars only from 2030 onwards.

In the meantime, the company promises the Ghost Series II will be ‘the most technologically advanced and driver-focused V12 Rolls-Royce’ ever created.

Along with revised styling and enhanced technology inside, a performance-orientated Black Badge version of the Ghost Series II will be offered from launch.

An illuminating experience

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

The Ghost Series II gains updated headlights and daytime running lights, along with an illuminated Pantheon grille. New tail lights incorporate discreet ‘R’ monograms, and buyers can choose from two finishes for the 22-inch alloy wheels. 

Rolls-Royce offers a palette of more than 44,000 paint colours for the Ghost Series II, or you can reserve one for your personal use only through the company’s Bespoke service. 

On the inside, a revised full-width glass panel includes a central media screen that runs the marque’s Spirit operating system. This allows the colour of the digital instrument panel to be matched to the exterior of the car. 

A new Spirit of Ecstasy cabinet on the dashboard houses an analogue clock and a mirror-polished figurine. Grey Stained Ash (see above) is a new interior trim option, alongside an endless array of leather colours and stitching styles.

Back in Black

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

When the second-generation Ghost was launched, Rolls-Royce made customers wait for the performance Black Badge model. However, the Series II car will be available from the off. 

As before, it uses a tuned version of the twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12. Power and torque are increased by 29hp and 37lb ft versus the 570hp and 605lb ft of the regular Ghost.

A Sport mode would be too uncouth for a Rolls-Royce, so a ‘Low’ setting increases gear shift speeds by 50 percent, and produces a ‘subtly more voluble note’ from the exhaust system. All-wheel drive and all-wheel steering help to maximise the Black Badge’s agility

Plenty of darkened chrome trim, and a unique lower front bumper, also mark out the Black Badge model. And inside, a new ‘Technical Carbon’ trim enhances the car’s performance image.

‘A self-assured expression’

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

Chris Brownridge, chief executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented: “Ghost is renowned as a uniquely expressive, agile, and self-assured expression of the Rolls-Royce brand. 

“At our clients’ request, this new Series II iteration remains faithful to these principles, incorporating a potent and uncompromising engine and the essential potential for Bespoke. Meaningful exterior and material updates make an even more expressive and impactful statement.”

As with recent modern Rolls-Royce models, personalisation will play an important part in shaping each Ghost Series II. The marque is expanding its network of Private Offices around the world, ensuring buyers can tailor a car to their exact specification. 

In addition, the company is also looking to expand its Goodwood headquarters, allowing its Bespoke department more space in which to work.

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Kia Pride EV is an electric restomod that keeps it real

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Kia Pride EV Restomod

Kia has unveiled an electrified version of the first car it sold in the UK – part of the celebrations for the South Korean marque’s 80th anniversary

Donated from Kia’s own heritage fleet, the 1996 Pride 1.3 LX has undergone a restomod makeover, including a fully electric powertrain.

A collaboration between Kia UK and EV conversion specialists Electrogenic, the Pride EV retains front-wheel drive and even the five-speed manual gearbox of the original car.

Back to the future

Kia Pride EV Restomod

The conversion removes the Kia’s 1.3-litre petrol engine, which originally endowed the Pride with just 60hp and 87lb ft of torque.

The new electric motor serves up 107hp, along with a considerable 173lb ft of torque. This makes for a 77 percent increase in horsepower, and 99 percent more twist action. 

A 10kWh battery beneath the bonnet, plus a second unit under the boot floor, give the Pride EV a potential range of 120 miles. 

Impressively, the electric conversion has only added 20kg to the diminutive Pride. It now tips the scales at 870kg, making it a true featherweight compared to modern EVs.

Engage Sport mode (yes, really)

Kia Pride EV Restomod

Electrogenic’s work includes preserving the Pride’s original five-speed manual gearbox, converting this to work with the electric motor.

Even more impressive is the new three-stage driving mode selector, giving the choice of Eco, Auto and Sport settings. 

Eco mode limits the electric motor to a similar level of performance as the petrol-powered Pride, while Auto allows it to operate like a conventional EV with 80hp. Regenerative braking boosts the battery charge, too.

Select Sport mode, however, and the Pride EV generates the maximum amount of power, helping it accelerate from 0-62mph in around eight seconds. An original Pride needed nearly 12 seconds for the same sprint.

A Type 2 charging connector replaces the Pride EV’s fuel filler, and is connected to a 3.3kW onboard charger. Fully recharging the Kia should take around six hours.

Bursting with Pride

Kia Pride EV Restomod

The exterior of the Pride EV has been resprayed in Kia’s modern White Pearl hue, with the front and rear lights upgraded for better visibility.

On the inside, the seats are retrimmed in period-correct cloth, but with new lime green piping that references Kia’s flagship EV6 GT. This colour also appears on the floor mats and brake calipers. 

As with all Electrogenic conversions, none of the Pride’s bodywork or underpinnings has been modified. It means the electric powertrain could be removed, making the EV conversion totally reversible.

Expect to see the Pride EV making more public appearances, as Kia works towards 15 electric models by 2027. Sadly, the Pride EV will not be among them…

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