Latest news with #JamesMay
Scottish Sun
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Four fun EVs to ease the switch for petrolheads – but expert warns of two hurdles brands face despite government grant
Brands are working on making "EVs more exciting and appealing to enthusiasts" PLUGGED IN Four fun EVs to ease the switch for petrolheads – but expert warns of two hurdles brands face despite government grant Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE FUTURE is undoubtedly electric, as manufacturers steadily shift their focus from petrol-powered motors to electric ones. However, it's perfectly understandable that many car enthusiasts aren't quite ready to embrace this change. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 EVs don't need to be boring, with a good handful of models aimed at putting the fun in driving Credit: Hyundai 2 The all electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 N became the first EV to win the Auto Express Performance Car of the Year award last year Credit: Hyundai The absence of traditional driving traits, such as the sound, vibration and gear changes associated with internal combustion engine cars is widely regarded as a pretty big loss. But in an interview with EVPowered last year, former Top Gear host James May implored enthusiasts to give electric power a chance, adding: 'If you're a true car enthusiast, you have to take an interest in the future of the car.' Change is hard though, and manufacturers face a tricky few years helping drivers - from petrolheads to casual fans - make the transition. It's something Steve Walker, Head of Digital Content at Auto Express, told Sun Motors in a recent exclusive chat. He said: 'The evolution of performance EVs faces two main challenges. 'Firstly, EVs are inherently heavy due to their batteries, which works against them being as nimble and fun to drive as petrol cars. 'Secondly, enthusiasts tend to love cars partly because they've formed a deep emotional connection to the history and heritage of performance brands and their cars over the years. 'EVs are a real break from this past. They don't have the same authenticity and don't offer the same sounds and sensations that petrol cars do. This makes them less appealing initially. 'That said, manufacturers know they need to engage enthusiasts. These are the people who are willing to pay for premium and performance models. 'They're also the people who help generate the culture and interest around car brands through their passion for the cars, bringing the brand's products to a wider audience. Alpine A290 GTS delivers a hot hatch EV that comes with F1-style 'overtake button' 'So, manufacturers are working on creating EVs that feel better to drive and more connected to that heritage. 'We're already seeing features like simulated engine noises and artificial 'manual gear changes' in performance EVs to mimic that petrol car driving experience. 'Looking ahead, technologies such as lighter solid-state batteries and in-wheel electric motors could reduce weight and improve driving dynamics, helping EVs become more exciting and appealing to enthusiasts.' CHARGING UP Something that might sway some drivers - petrolheads or otherwise - is the introduction of the Electric Car Grant by the government that was announced earlier this week. It sees £650 million set aside for drivers to enjoy a discount of up to £3,750 taken off the price of EVs priced under £37,000. That funding, planned to run until the 2028-29 financial year, also only counts towards models from brands that have committed to a so-called Science-Based Target (SBT) for emissions. Fewer than 50 new EV models would qualify for the grant, providing they meet the required criteria. Among them is the super-fun Alpine A290, starting at £33,000 for the base model, as well as the Abarth 600e - specifically, the 237bhp base model, which just fits within the grant threshold - and the Mini JCW Electric with its 255bhp. Walker said: 'While performance car fans aren't likely to be as excited about EVs as company car drivers or family buyers, who are often more focused on costs or practicality, there are a few current models that deserve to grab enthusiasts' interest. 'The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a prime example - it was actually the first EV to win the Auto Express Performance Car of the Year award in 2024, marking it as a real pioneer of fun electric cars. 'Another interesting option is the Alpine A290, but overall, fun EVs are still very much in their infancy and quite rare compared to petrol alternatives, which remain fundamentally better at delivering the traditional thrills that enthusiasts crave.' MAKING THE SWITCH Switching from a petrol-powered car to an EV can feel like a daunting step for some. The challenge for the industry is to make EVs with emotional appeal Steve Walker, Auto Express However, Walker offers valuable advice for those ready to take the leap into the world of electric cars. 'For enthusiasts making the switch, it's important to recognise that EVs today are different beasts - heavier and quieter, with driving sensations that don't replicate the petrol experience,' he said. 'They're also fast, with an immediate power delivery that most petrol models can't match. 'As the technology improves, expect EVs to become more engaging and responsive. 'Manufacturers still need 'halo' cars that generate interest and showcase innovation. As the legislation stands in Europe, these will have to be EVs. 'Ultimately, without enthusiasts, cars risk becoming just another consumer product like a phone or washing machine. 'The challenge for the industry is to make EVs with emotional appeal through which drivers can express their personality and passion, just as petrol cars have done for decades.'
The Sun
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Four fun EVs to ease the switch for petrolheads – but expert warns of two hurdles brands face despite government grant
THE FUTURE is undoubtedly electric, as manufacturers steadily shift their focus from petrol-powered motors to electric ones. However, it's perfectly understandable that many car enthusiasts aren't quite ready to embrace this change. 2 2 The absence of traditional driving traits, such as the sound, vibration and gear changes associated with internal combustion engine cars is widely regarded as a pretty big loss. But in an interview with EVPowered last year, former Top Gear host James May implored enthusiasts to give electric power a chance, adding: 'If you're a true car enthusiast, you have to take an interest in the future of the car.' Change is hard though, and manufacturers face a tricky few years helping drivers - from petrolheads to casual fans - make the transition. It's something Steve Walker, Head of Digital Content at Auto Express, told Sun Motors in a recent exclusive chat. He said: 'The evolution of performance EVs faces two main challenges. 'Firstly, EVs are inherently heavy due to their batteries, which works against them being as nimble and fun to drive as petrol cars. 'Secondly, enthusiasts tend to love cars partly because they've formed a deep emotional connection to the history and heritage of performance brands and their cars over the years. 'EVs are a real break from this past. They don't have the same authenticity and don't offer the same sounds and sensations that petrol cars do. This makes them less appealing initially. 'That said, manufacturers know they need to engage enthusiasts. These are the people who are willing to pay for premium and performance models. 'They're also the people who help generate the culture and interest around car brands through their passion for the cars, bringing the brand's products to a wider audience. Alpine A290 GTS delivers a hot hatch EV that comes with F1-style 'overtake button' 'So, manufacturers are working on creating EVs that feel better to drive and more connected to that heritage. 'We're already seeing features like simulated engine noises and artificial 'manual gear changes' in performance EVs to mimic that petrol car driving experience. 'Looking ahead, technologies such as lighter solid-state batteries and in-wheel electric motors could reduce weight and improve driving dynamics, helping EVs become more exciting and appealing to enthusiasts.' CHARGING UP Something that might sway some drivers - petrolheads or otherwise - is the introduction of the Electric Car Grant by the government that was announced earlier this week. It sees £650 million set aside for drivers to enjoy a discount of up to £3,750 taken off the price of EVs priced under £37,000. That funding, planned to run until the 2028-29 financial year, also only counts towards models from brands that have committed to a so-called Science-Based Target (SBT) for emissions. Fewer than 50 new EV models would qualify for the grant, providing they meet the required criteria. Among them is the super-fun Alpine A290, starting at £33,000 for the base model, as well as the Abarth 600e - specifically, the 237bhp base model, which just fits within the grant threshold - and the Mini JCW Electric with its 255bhp. Walker said: 'While performance car fans aren't likely to be as excited about EVs as company car drivers or family buyers, who are often more focused on costs or practicality, there are a few current models that deserve to grab enthusiasts' interest. 'The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a prime example - it was actually the first EV to win the Auto Express Performance Car of the Year award in 2024, marking it as a real pioneer of fun electric cars. 'Another interesting option is the Alpine A290, but overall, fun EVs are still very much in their infancy and quite rare compared to petrol alternatives, which remain fundamentally better at delivering the traditional thrills that enthusiasts crave.' MAKING THE SWITCH Switching from a petrol-powered car to an EV can feel like a daunting step for some. The challenge for the industry is to make EVs with emotional appeal Steve Walker, Auto Express However, Walker offers valuable advice for those ready to take the leap into the world of electric cars. 'For enthusiasts making the switch, it's important to recognise that EVs today are different beasts - heavier and quieter, with driving sensations that don't replicate the petrol experience,' he said. 'They're also fast, with an immediate power delivery that most petrol models can't match. 'As the technology improves, expect EVs to become more engaging and responsive. 'Manufacturers still need 'halo' cars that generate interest and showcase innovation. As the legislation stands in Europe, these will have to be EVs. 'Ultimately, without enthusiasts, cars risk becoming just another consumer product like a phone or washing machine. 'The challenge for the industry is to make EVs with emotional appeal through which drivers can express their personality and passion, just as petrol cars have done for decades.' CHARGE ANYTIME OVO's Charge Anywhere gives EV drivers access to everything they need to charge on the go, in one app - everything from route planning to locating working chargers, and paying for charging. And by signing up to a Boost plan, drivers can get up to 15% off public charging. It is open to all EV drivers, you don't have to be an OVO customer, and is free to join, just download the OVO Charge app on the App Store or Google Play. Drivers get access to the biggest charging networks, including over 50,000 UK public chargers and over 400,000 across Europe. More information can be found HERE OVO customers can enhance their energy tariffs by adding Charge Anytime, enabling them to charge their electric vehicles at a market-leading rate of 7p per kWh, any time of the day or night. This rate is 90% cheaper than public charging and 80% less than the cost of petrol. With Charge Anytime, customers can charge their car for just £217 per year, based on average consumption. This represents a saving of £542 compared to the UK's average SVT charging rate. More information can be found HERE. OVO Beyond Customers who sign up to OVO's free rewards programme, Beyond, can enjoy 100 free miles every month for two years. This adds up to 2,400 free miles in total, ready to use when they decide to make the switch to an electric vehicle. OVO Offers OVO customers can benefit from up to 30,000 free EV miles when they purchase or lease an electric car from Volkswagen. This offer applies across all VWG brands, including Audi, CUPRA, Skoda, and VW. Customers receive 10,000 free miles every year for three years, provided they remain OVO customers. Additionally, customers can earn 1,000 free miles on the anniversary of their Charge Anytime sign-up for the first three years.
Daily Mirror
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Top Gear's James May in tears as he shares 'tragic' death of family member
Former Top Gear presenter James May has spoken about the death of a beloved family pet a few years ago while the TV star also touched on his closest brush with death Television presenter James May has admitted he got very emotional after his beloved pet cat died and gone into detail about his career to-date as well as his plans for the future. The former Top Gear presenter admitted that the last time he had had a difficult moment was when his beloved feline passed away. The 62-year-old said that his pet's death had been sudden and it had been hard for him to deal with. He explained: 'I last cried when my cat died. We were very close. His name was Fluff because he wasn't long-haired, but still fluffy. He died suddenly of an embolism, in some pain, so it was all a bit tragic.' James also opened up about his time on the popular BBC programme, the hair raising moments, and the closest he felt to death was whilst in his own aircraft. He told The i: 'The closest I've come to death is when I crashed my aeroplane. I tried to land in a gusting crosswind, and the next thing, the aeroplane was on its back." James added: 'There could have been a fire, which would've been the end of me. It was years after I'd started working on Top Gear that I was driving with a mate past an airfield and it had a sign saying: introductory flying lessons, 30 minutes for £120. "He said: 'Let's stop and have one. Now I have my private pilot's licence.'' Alongside reflecting on his near-death experiences, James has also talked in recent months about his business activities including running a pub and shooting videos for YouTube. In fact the media personality said: '2025 was going to be my trial retirement year, but I've been accepted to speak at a couple of history festivals and charity events. 'I've got two TV series, and then I'm doing a live show in Australia, New Zealand and around the UK. This is the busiest year I've had for about a decade.' One of the shows James has been filming has been 'James May's Shed Load of Ideas' which was recently spotted filming at a Gillingham supermarket, much to the surprise of shoppers. In a statement, the store's community champion Diana told The New Blackmore Vale: "We had former Top Gear presenter James May in store filming for his new show, James May's Shed Load of Ideas. 'He lives relatively locally and we are his nearest Asda. He's a lovely man who took time to have his picture taken with lots of customers and excited school children on their way to sports day.'
BBC News
10-07-2025
- BBC News
Police seize illegal e-bike modified to reach a top speed of 62mph
An illegal e-bike modified to hit speeds of 62mph (92.7kmh) has been seized by police on Merseyside alongside more than 500 unregistered two-wheel vehicles this region's police force said there had been a "sharp rise" in crimes including drug supply, robberies, and violence where electric motorbikes, scooters, scrambler bikes and electric pedal bikes had been used. Merseyside Police has since launched Operation Gears to crack down on the problem and has urged the public to make sure they understand the law around using e-bikes. Inspector James May said "fast and heavy" bikes designed for use on private land are creating serious hazards in pedestrianised areas. "Members of the public can't walk around the streets safely and they feel intimidated when these people are riding around, particularly with their faces covered or they're wearing balaclavas," he said. Insp May said one of the seized bikes had been modified with a battery pack, a throttle and a power wheel replacing the chain, meaning it was capable of being powered by the motor alone. He said officers had conducted tests and found it reached a top speed of 62mph, and any pedestrian struck at such high speeds "could be killed". Supt Phil Mullally said any parents in the region who are planning to buy an e-bike for their child to "really consider" if it is suitable. "What we see is not only the illegal use in terms of the Road Traffic Act but also their use in serious criminality," he told BBC Radio Merseyside. He said the campaign was about targeting criminals rather than "law-abiding members of the public", with the vehicles used in offences involving firearms, drugs and robberies. Supt Mullally said they were an "enabler to some of that serious criminality" and urged people to secure their e-bikes as many were being stolen to be used in crime. In the UK, e-bikes are legal to ride for people over the age of 14 if the motor has a maximum output of 250 watts and only assists when the rider is pedalling - not with a 'twist-and-go' throttle or accelerator. E-bikes must also have motors that cut out when the bike reaches 15.5 mph (25 km/h), and must have details of the manufacturer and specifications displayed on the frame. Bikes that are more powerful are classed as electric mopeds or electric motorbikes and are governed by stricter laws on licensing, helmets and registration. Electric scooters are only legal to ride on private land, apart from in areas with specially designated trial schemes for rental e-scooters provided by licensed companies, such as Voi in Liverpool. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
The Sun
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Battered 80s car Jeremy Clarkson bought on Top Gear could be yours for £15,000 – but there's a catch
A BATTERED motor that Jeremy Clarkson once bought on Top Gear for just £450 can now be yours - but for a hugely inflated price. A 1989 Alfa Romeo 75 V6 3.0 Veloce that was driven by the presenter for an episode of the show is selling for a staggering £15,000. 4 4 4 The Alfa appeared in episode three of series 11 back in 2008, when the three presenters - Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond - were tasked with buying a car for under £1,000. Clarkson is known for his fondness for Alfa Romeo cars, once saying that you need to own an Alfa Romeo to be a true car enthusiast. He bought this 75 model for just £450 at the time and praised its 3.0-litre Busso V6 engine, calling it "one of the best engines ever to go into mass production." Throughout the famous episode, the car faced several challenges, including a track day at Rockingham Motor Speedway. It also featured in a calendar photoshoot, as well as the Auto Italia Stanford Hall Concours - where Clarkson personally repainted it in a shade he called ' Sk o da Green'. Today, the car has much of its original paintwork - as well as a few battle scars from its TV exploits. Its listing, courtesy of Iconic Auctioneers, says: "Following its appearance on Top Gear, the Alfa Romeo 75 has been meticulously maintained during 11 years of current ownership, with approximately £4,500 invested mechanically. "Important work has included a cam belt service, a new clutch, and a gearbox rebuild. "With just over 51,000 miles on the clock, the car comes with a comprehensive history file, original handbooks, stamped service book, old MOT records, and a detailed DVLA ownership history. "The sale includes replacement doors and bonnet for those interested in returning it to standard specification." 'It's a fabulous off roader' - YOU can own James May's Caterham built for The Grand Tour for just £30k The listing added: 'A great opportunity to buy a TV 'star car' that starts, runs and stops. 'Last MOT expired in 2017. Category 'C' Insurance Loss. 'Vehicle extensively damaged but repairable. 'Insurer decided not to repair it.' Rob Hubbard of Iconic Auctioneers said: 'This Alfa Romeo 75 is an enjoyable and quirky piece of Top Gear history, ideal for those who appreciate characterful cars with an engaging backstory. "We're delighted to present cars like this, celebrating automotive passion at every level.' Fans of the show can fork out on the Alfa Sunday, August 24, at the Silverstone Festival in Towcester, Northamptonshire.
