Latest news with #MotorsNews
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish 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 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 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 Read more Motors News 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. Most read in Motors '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 '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 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 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 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.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Major car brand's iconic hot hatchback hints at swift return in bold new form after it was discontinued
THE end is nigh for the Honda Civic Type R - which is set to be discontinued in the UK by the beginning of 2026. But while this iconic hot hatchback will be sorely missed by petrolheads, its swift return is already being talked up in the form of a performance EV. 4 The Honda Civic Type R is reaching the end of the road - but it could be set for a swift return Credit: Honda 4 The iconic name-plate is being taken off the market across Europe and the UK due to its engine failing to meet new European emissions regulations Credit: Honda 4 Honda, though, may bring it back in the near future as a performance EV Credit: Honda 4 The Civic Type R is a favourite among petrolheads for its powerful turbocharged engine and track-ready handling Credit: Honda The Civic Type R, adored for its powerful turbocharged engine, track-ready handling and sometimes-polarising design, It's being taken off the market by Honda across Europe and the UK due to its engine failing to meet new European emissions regulations - particularly the Euro 6e-bis standards which come into effect in January 2026. But according to future of its sporty number will live on into the electric age. At the launch of the new Prelude, project lead, Tomoyuki Yamagami, said the Type R 'can be anything in future, depending on what the market demands', adding that the famous nameplate isn't necessarily dependent on its turbo powertrain. Read more Motors News He added that the 'Type R badge is about the ability to enhance dynamic attributes to the max'. Earlier this year, Toshihiro Akiwa, head of Honda's BEV Development Centre, hinted that the brand is heavily focused on the fun-factor when it comes to their EVs. He said: 'A battery and motor have different characteristics so we can't come up with something exactly the same as before. 'As an EV, how can we provide the joy of driving? Most read in Motors "We haven't given up of course, but it's not just about power, it's about the sound, vibration, acceleration and the human experience. 'These are the joys of driving.' Major car brand to revive long-forgotten sports model discontinued 23 years ago NEW AGE There was a time when the hot hatchback appeared to be dead and buried. The demise of icons like the Ford Focus ST, Renaultsport Clio and the petrol-powered Abarth 500 all pointed to the beloved sub-genre of performance cars slowly fading into obscurity. However, manufacturers seem determined to keep the spirit of the hot hatch alive in the electric age with a wave of sporty hatchbacks having been recently introduced. Hyundai was arguably the first to prove that a proper performance-focused EV hatchback was possible with the Ioniq 5 N, while the newly launched Alpine A290 is already being hailed as a future classic. Meanwhile, Honda isn't ready to bid farewell to its legendary Type R just yet, with an exclusive 'Ultimate Edition' heading to Europe - though only 40 units will be available. Currently, the Civic Type R is the sole model in the UK to carry the famous Type R badge. Over the years, however, other models such as the Integra Type R and Accord Type R have also proudly worn the emblem.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
I tracked down my grandfather's Mini after it'd been lost for DECADES – I restored & now it's worth over £12,000
A CLASSIC car enthusiast has shared the heartwarming story of his Morris Mini, a cherished family heirloom that has been passed down through four generations. Jamie Garrett, from Oxfordshire, was recently named a runner-up in Pride of Ownership award for 2025, after showcasing his beautifully restored and much-loved classic car. Advertisement 5 Jamie Garrett's restored Morris Mini is a cherished family heirloom spanning generations Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The lost Morris Mini was re-discovered and returned to life as Jamie surprised his father with a stunning restoration Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The car has earned the runner-up spot at Lancaster Insurance's Pride of Ownership award Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The Mini's shell was restored by a skilled panel expert from the Real Mini Company Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Found in 2019, the project took years to complete Credit: Lancaster Insurance Speaking to the classic car experts at Lancaster Insurance , Jamie revealed the iconic little motor was originally purchased by his grandfather in 1965 and became an integral part of the family's life. Indeed, it was used for everything from summer holidays in France and Italy to teaching multiple family members, including Jamie's father, how to drive. The car later served as Jamie's father's work vehicle - before rust claimed it in 1977, rendering it undrivable and leaving it off the road for decades. In 1996, an attempt was made to restore the Mini but the project stalled and the car was eventually given away. Advertisement Read more Motors News For years, it was thought to be lost forever - until Jamie tracked it down in 2019. Against all odds, he bought the car back and embarked on the ambitious task of restoring it to its former glory - despite having no prior experience in car restoration. As expected, Jamie faced numerous challenges, including a failed initial attempt, but his determination never wavered and by working with specialists, including a skilled panel expert from the Real Mini Company, the Mini's shell was brought back to life. Better yet, Jamie decided to keep the restoration project a secret from his father until 2023, when he unveiled the fully restored Mini as a surprise - leaving his father overwhelmed with emotion. Advertisement Most read in Motors Together, they worked on the final touches before taking the car for its first drive to visit Jamie's grandfather, who apparently, when he first saw it, said: 'It was never this good!' Speaking to Lancaster Insurance, Jamie said: 'As a family we are immensely proud of the car, and the story that goes with it makes it even more special and brings joy to everyone that meets her. The first-ever all-electric MINI JCW Aceman 'She will live on as a lasting memory of my grandparents who are now no longer with us.' The motor now serves as both a functional car and a showpiece - regularly appearing at various events. Advertisement Lancaster's Pride of Ownership award, as voted for by classic car enthusiasts, recognises not only craftsmanship and dedication. Yvonne Gosney, the firm's Senior Trading Manager, said: 'The work Jamie has completed on this Mini is nothing short of exceptional, and we congratulate him on his deserving podium position in this year's Pride of Ownership. 'Jamie's Mini is a powerful reminder of how classic car restoration can be about more than just metal - it can bring a family's history back to life.' The Morris Mini has become a favourite among classic car enthusiasts and has risen in price in recent years - with the median price, according to the Advertisement A quick scan through classic car listings, like the ones on
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Iconic carmaker is recalling 69,000 motors over faulty display screen that ‘increases risk of a crash'
AN ICONIC carmaker is recalling 69,000 motors over a faulty display screen that increases the risk of a crash. The carmaker is trying to claw back the faulty vehicles which include its popular sedans, hatchbacks and SUV models. 1 Toyota is recalling 69,000 motors due to a faulty display screen Credit: Getty Toyota is recalling tens of thousands of cars due to a display error on its interior screens. Impacted vehicles were sold in the Australian market between July 2022 and April 2025. It is understood that not all vehicles sold in this time frame feature the faulty displays. But many, including the Corolla and Camry hybrids, the Kluger Hybrid and the RAV4 hybrid may experience the issue. Read more Motors News Toyota has notified its customers that its 12.3 inch display screen on the instrument panel may be blank when the engine is turned on and remain in this state. The screen is crucial for displaying warnings, indicator lights, vehicle gauges and messages. The recall notice said: "Driving without speedometer and any warning may result in an increased risk of an accident in certain driving conditions." A program update will be required to resolve the issue. Most read in Motors Repair of the vehicle will take between one and 2.5 hours depending on the vehicle model. For any involved vehicles, Toyota dealers will be able to update the software free of charge to owners. All UK car dealerships will STOP selling 10,000s of iconic brand's used models impacted by lethal airbag flaw The carmaker will contact all the owners of the affected vehicles to provide further details of the safety recall campaign. Anyone who owns one of the affected vehicles is still permitted to drive the car but they are advised to contact a service provider immediately to ensure the issue doesn't arise. Last month, The RAV4 family SUV is a massive seller and returns next year as a plug-in hybrid only. At the end of the year it will relaunch its baby as a hybrid instead of pure-petrol. So the hybrid system is still a massive part of Toyota's success. The iconic carmaker is also Land Cruiser, which is set to compete with rival motors. And is expected to join the much loved GR Yaris on UK roads in the next 18-months. The motor is expected to go into production next year in a bid to satisfy lengthy waiting lists.
The Irish Sun
7 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Brit drivers warned of deadly mistake millions face over summer holidays – and how to avoid getting caught out
BRIT drivers have been warned of a deadly mistake that will face millions over the summer holidays. As Brits hit the roads for their holidays this summer, motorists have been urged to take regular stops on their long journeys. 1 Drivers have been urged to take regular stops on their long journeys this summer Credit: Getty This is because new analysis has revealed a steep rise in fatigue-related crashes during the summer months. National Highways issued the advice and warned that driver tiredness can lead to "dangerous mistakes". Drivers have been urged by the agency to plan breaks that go "beyond quick pit stops". They suggest activities such as exploring a nearby tourist attraction or beauty spot to ensure drivers are alert before they get back behind the wheel. Read more Motors News To encourage drivers, National Highways is producing videos that spotlight potential places to visit near major roads. It's in an effort to help drivers discover new places and take a meaningful break without straying too far from their route. For example, drivers travelling on the M1 can visit Bolsover Castle, Hardwick Hall and Wrest Park on their journey. Or if you find yourself on the M5, you can pay a visit to Cheltenham's Pittville Park with its lakeside walks. Most read in Motors An average of 262 people are killed or seriously injured between June and August each year on England's motorways and major A-roads where fatigue is a contributory factor. That's 59 per cent more than the whole of the remaining nine months of the year. Dramatic moment idiot driver speeds off road, spins out of control and crashes into police car The data covers the period from 2016 to 2022, excluding figures for 2020 and 2021 as the coronavirus pandemic affected travel patterns. A National Highways survey of 1,727 adults in England indicated just 39% would take a break because of driver tiredness. Some 29% said they did not factor in rest stops on their last long journey. Regional differences are clear too with drivers in the North East, North West and South West far more likely to take rest stops on long journeys. Whereas those in the Sheena Hague, director of road safety at National Highways, said: "We all want to reach our destination quickly, especially when the excitement of a holiday awaits, but fatigue behind the wheel can be deadly. "It's not just about falling asleep, tiredness slows your reactions, clouds your judgment and can lead to dangerous mistakes." She added: "That's why we're encouraging drivers to follow our advice by planning ahead, taking regular breaks and staying refreshed. "This will help keep themselves and other road users safe while enjoying the rich heritage and natural beauty our country has to offer." Beth Stone, Head of Visitor Experience at English Heritage advised drivers to "stretch those legs and enjoy a well-deserved tea and a slice of cake" at its sites across the country. What does the Highway Code say about resting while driving? The Highway Code has a number of rules and guidance around being fit to drive including for when you're tired and about to hit the road. Rule 91 of the Highway Code states that driving when you are tired greatly increases your risk of collision. To minimise the risk, they advise: Make sure you are fit to drive. Do not begin a journey if you are tired. Get sufficient sleep before embarking on a long journey Avoid undertaking long journeys between midnight and 6 am, when natural alertness is at a minimum Plan your journey to take sufficient breaks. A minimum break of at least 15 minutes after every two hours of driving is recommended If you feel sleepy, stop in a safe place. Do not stop in an emergency area or on a hard shoulder of a motorway If you drive a goods vehicle, there are rules you need to follow on duty time, daily driving limits and daily duty limits. The same rules apply to drivers of buses and coaches with additional advice on breaks from driving and rest periods. If you're vehicle is over 3.5 tonnes and you're driving in the UK or the EU, you must follow the assimilated rules which dictate driving hours, breaks and rest.
