Nigel Mansell to join Goodwood Festival of Speed’s Formula 1 celebration

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard is celebrating 75 years of the Formula 1 World Championship. 1992 Formula 1 World Champion Nigel Mansell to drive Williams FW11 and FW14B. Festival of Speed takes place Thursday 10 – Sunday 13 July. Limited Thursday tickets remain at goodwood.com. Goodwood is thrilled to announce that 1992 Formula 1 World Champion Nigel Mansell will return to this year’s Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard, as the event joins forces with Formula 1 to celebrate 75 years of the F1 World Championship. 2025 will be Mansell’s fourth visit to the Festival of Speed, and will see the Formula 1 legend drive his 1992 Championship-winning Williams FW14B and race-winning FW11 – the car which would have taken him to the championship six years earlier, in 1986, but for a dramatic tyre failure 18 laps from the end of the final race in Adelaide – the latter supported by Honda Collection Hall. Nigel Mansell’s career is the stuff of legend, characterised by blinding speed, fierce determination, bitter rivalries, stratospheric highs and devastating lows. It was a tale of triumph over adversity, supported all the way by his wife Rosanne – the couple recently celebrated their golden wedding anniversary! His attacking style, and steadfast refusal to accept defeat, won him an army of fans globally, but especially at home in the UK, in Italy, where the Tifosi named him ‘Il Leone’ (‘the lion’) during his two seasons at Ferrari, and in America, where he followed up his 1992 F1 World Championship by winning the IndyCar World Series at his first attempt in 1993 – he briefly held the two biggest single-seater titles in the world at the same time. It’s rare for individual overtaking manoeuvres to be remembered, but such was Nigel Mansell’s skill and bravery that he has four entries on the list of all-time greats: Silverstone 1987, when he dummied team-mate (and fierce rival) Nelson Piquet into Stowe corner after overhauling a 30-second deficit following a mid-race pit stop; Hungary 1989, when, with lightning reflexes, he out-fumbled Ayrton Senna as they came across a slow-moving backmarker; Mexico 1990, when he went around the outside of Gerhard Berger into the flat-out Peraltada corner, to snatch second on the penultimate lap; and Barcelona 1991, when he duked it out, wheel-to-wheel, mere inches apart from Senna down the length of the pit straight, creating one of the most memorable images in Formula 1 history. Coming into Formula 1 in 1980, as a protégé of Colin Chapman (he was the last driver signed by the Lotus founder), Mansell was devastated by his sudden death at the end of 1982. Without his mentor’s support, he fell out of favour at Lotus, and it wasn’t until the European Grand Prix at Brands Hatch in 1985, after a switch to Williams, that he finally became a Grand Prix winner. A further 30 Grand Prix wins followed, between 1985 and 1994, and Mansell retired as the most successful British Formula 1 driver of all time in terms of races won, and remains second on that list to this day, behind only Sir Lewis Hamilton. His 14 pole positions during the dominant 1992 season has only been beaten once, by Sebastian Vettel in 2011, but where Seb’s total of 15 came from 19 races, Nigel needed only 16 races to reach 14. Such was the superiority of Mansell and the FW14B, had the season gone on for three more races, it is fair to assume his total would have been 17… Since his debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2006, Nigel Mansell has delighted fans by driving several significant cars from his career, including the 1982 Lotus 91 – Colin Chapman’s last Grand Prix-winning design – and, in 2022, being reunited with his 1992 Championship-winning FW14B for the first time in 30 years. In addition to his appearances, Mansell’s cars have been showcased at Goodwood, and in 2023 Sebastian Vettel took to the wheel of the FW14B, with the car running on sustainable fuel to highlight his ‘Race Without Trace’ initiative. Mansell will attend the Festival of Speed as part of the event’s single biggest celebration, on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Formula 1 World Championship. Mansell will join the Champions class alongside fellow champions, and former team-mates, Alain Prost and Mario Andretti, with other legendary F1 names to be announced in the coming weeks. Speaking ahead of the event, 1992 Formula 1 World Champion Nigel Mansell said:“I’m looking forward to returning to the Festival of Speed this summer and celebrating 75 years of the Formula 1 World Championship. It’s been amazing to drive the Goodwood hillclimb in a number of my cars over the years, and I can’t wait to do it all again!” The Duke of Richmond CBE DL said: “I couldn’t be happier that Nigel will be coming back to the Festival of Speed this year, as we host our biggest ever celebration to mark 75 years of the Formula 1 World Championship. Nigel was more than just a legend of the sport, he was a hero, and celebrating Formula 1 without him would be unthinkable! As well as being one of the fastest, bravest and most determined drivers of all time, he inspired a level of devotion amongst British fans the like of which we have never seen before or since. We got a small glimpse of ‘Mansell Mania’ when he came to Goodwood three years ago, and I look forward to its return in July.” Nigel Mansell joins the previously-announced Champions Alain Prost and Mario Andretti, the celebration for four-time WorldSBK Champion Carl Fogarty, the biggest celebration of Formula 1, and Gordon Murray Automotive’s impressive Central Feature sculpture. Friday, Saturday and Sunday tickets are now sold out, with limited Thursday tickets remaining at goodwood.com. -ENDS- Notes to Editors:Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard will take place Thursday 10 – Sunday 13 July 2025. TicketsFriday, Saturday, Sunday and four-day…

Large van fleet sector unlikely to achieve 2030 and 2035 net zero targets, warns BEDEO in UK Government letter

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. BEDEO has issued an open letter to UK Government officials, urging immediate action to support the large van fleet sector in meeting net-zero targets Under the UK ZEV mandate, 70 per cent of new vans sold in Great Britain must be zero emission by 2030, with a full phase-out of diesel LCV sales by 2035 Today, BEV 3.5–4.25t represents just 0.5 per cent market share*, and BEV >3.5t sits at 5.3 per cent – lower than in 2023* BEDEO predicts even the ‘greenest’ fleet owners will have a difficulty to turn more than 50 per cent of their fleet into zero-emissions due to range, cost and payload barriers In its open letter, BEDEO calls for Range Extender Large Vans eligibility under grant schemes, updates to B licence weight limits, and formal recognition of retrofitting as a net-zero pathway BEDEO’s Reborn Electric is a Range Extender, featuring proprietary retrofitting technology, is optimised for urban routes, offering more than 62 miles of fully electric driving per charge Proven effective in real-world use, the RE-100 is helping large and small fleets achieve substantial reductions in CO2 emissions and operational costs without reducing efficiencies New market demand includes a letter of intent from fleet operators for 500 vehicles using BEDEO retrofit technology To explore BEDEO’s solutions, or for more information about its services and offerings, please visit bedeo.tech Farnham, 7th May 2025: BEDEO, a UK-based pioneer in large van electrification and retrofit technology, has issued a direct appeal to the UK Government, warning that the large van sector may fall dangerously short of the UK’s ZEV and net-zero targets without urgent intervention. In its formal open letter, BEDEO highlights that today, large battery-electric vans remain a niche market – BEVs in the 3.5–4.25t category represent just 0.5 per cent market share, and BEVs over 3.5t sit at 5.3 per cent – lower than 2023 levels*. With fleet operators citing concerns around payload loss, range limitations, and cost, BEDEO forecasts that by 2030 even the ‘greenest’ fleet owners will have a difficulty to turn more than 50 per cent of their fleet into zero-emissions due to range, cost and payload barriers. This stands in sharp contrast to the UK ZEV mandate, which requires 70 per cent of new vans sold by 2030 to be zero-emission – and the Government’s latest announcement, made by the Prime Minister in April 2025, that all new diesel van sales must end by 2035. “Electric vans just don’t have the same payload as diesel – it’s not even close,” warns Osman Boyner, Founder and CEO of BEDEO. “Fleet managers tell us they’re ready to convert 60 to 70 per cent of diesel vans – but not until cost and performance improve. Today, they’re ready for Range Extender and retrofit – but they need Government support.” BEDEO’s Reborn Electric solutions, including the RE-100 Range Extender, have already demonstrated real-world effectiveness. The RE-100 delivers more than 100 km (62 miles) of fully electric driving per charge – enough for most urban delivery cycles – while retaining the original diesel engine and performance of the base vehicle. However, the payload has been restricted, which is what BEDEO is also lobbying for legislative change, to ensure large van fleet operators are not at a disadvantage by choosing to retrofit – the greener and cheaper alternative choice of electrification. Fleets, including large and small vans, have already adopted BEDEO’s retrofit technology, achieving significant CO₂ reductions and cost savings – all without replacing their existing vehicles. The system maximises vehicle lifespan and avoids the environmental impact of scrappage. New demand is growing. BEDEO confirms that it has received a letter of intent from fleet operators to purchase 500 retrofitted vehicles, highlighting growing commercial confidence in the solution. In its open letter, BEDEO outlines three immediate policy changes required to support adoption of retrofit and hybrid electrification: Grant scheme inclusion: Range Extender technologies should be eligible for inclusion in Alternative Fuelled Vehicle (AFV) grant programmes to reflect their critical role in transitioning fleets. Licence weight tolerance adjustments: amendments to include Range Extender vehicles in the B licence 4.25t weight limit, currently granted only to fully electric, fuel cell or hydrogen-powered vehicles. Formal recognition in decarbonisation policy: Retrofit Range Extender solutions must be acknowledged in official pathways to net-zero as viable, scalable, and urgently needed transitional technology. BEDEO has also written to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Financial Secretary to the Treasury on this matter, and seeks urgent clarification on why Range Extender technology is permitted in London black cabs but not currently recognised for goods transport vehicles under the same technological principle. The letters have been sent to all aspects of the UK Government including Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport and Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, among many other MPs and policy makers. “The logistics industry is the backbone of the UK economy,” says Boyner. “According to McKinsey & Company**, LCVs are the single largest contributor to logistics-related emissions, responsible for 40 per cent. If the UK wants to lead on decarbonisation, we need pragmatic and scalable solutions now – and retrofit is one of the most impactful tools we have to reduce emissions without delay or disruption.” BEDEO stands ready to work with policymakers, fleet operators and industry leaders to shape practical pathways to a net-zero transport future. For further information or to discuss BEDEO’s retrofit solutions, please visit bedeo.tech. – Ends – * SMMT LCV Registrations** Decarbonizing logistics: Charting the path ahead About BEDEOBEDEO (formerly BD Auto) has established itself, and its group companies, as one of the most trailblazing, transformative and trusted vehicle electrification technology providers globally. Founded in 2009 by Osman Boyner, the company is headquartered in Farnham, UK, with manufacturing in Turkey and China. BEDEO’s vision is to decarbonise the LCV industry utilising its proprietary, in-house manufactured electrification solutions, including but not limited to: its in-wheel motor (IWM)…

Spring leads the charge! Dacia’s unbeatable value recognised (again!)

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. The Dacia Spring has once again been recognised for its unbeatable value for money after being named ‘Best EV Bargain’ at the TopGear.com Electric Awards 2025 It’s the second year running that Spring has been recognised, solidifying its place as the best bargain in the business Compact in size, but big on style and bold with personality, Spring makes affordable electric motoring available from only £14,995 on-the-road Dacia’s persistent pursuit of offering the nation the best value for money on the market has once again been recognised, this time with the Dacia Spring, for the second year running at the TopGear.com Electric Awards. Named ‘Best EV Bargain’ in 2025, after it was crowned ‘EV Deal of the Century’ last year, the accolade solidifies Dacia’s first electric car as the best bargain in the business. Deliberately designed for towns and cities, the Spring might be compact in size, but it is big on style and bold with personality. Its value-for-money offering is market leading thanks to prices that start from only £14,995 on-the-road. Jack Rix, Editor-In-Chief, Top Gear said: “For the second year running, the Dacia Spring is the biggest bargain on the planet EV. The Spring’s appeal is that it is everything that most electric cars aren’t: it’s not over-wrought or heavy-handed, it’s honest and enjoyable and manages to keep the dream of a low impact electric car alive.” Conceived to make electric mobility accessible to all, the Spring offers comprehensive standard specification and everyday usability. It is available with a choice of a 45 hp or 65 hp electric motor powered by a compact 26.8 kWh battery for a driving range of up to 140 miles (WLTP mixed), or 186 miles (WLTP urban). That’s enough for up to six days of driving on average in the city, while its 30 kW DC charger can deliver an 80% charge from flat in less than an hour. Luke Broad, Dacia Brand Director for the UK added: “When we launched Spring, we rewrote the EV rulebook. While others are now trying to follow these rules, it’s great that TopGear.com recognises we remain both the original and best value brand on the market. Spring’s price is so competitive that it’s one of the UK’s most affordable cars full stop, which is even more remarkable when its usability and standard equipment are considered.” ENDS ABOUT DACIA:Born in 1968, then relaunched by Renault Group from 2004 across Europe and Mediterranean countries, Dacia has always offered the best value for money cars by constantly redefining the essentials. As a game-changer, Dacia proposes simple, multi-purpose, reliable cars in tune with customers’ lifestyles. Dacia models have become a reference on the market, including Sandero, the best-selling retail car in Europe each year since 2017 and the best-selling car in Europe in 2024, full stop; Duster, the best-selling SUV to European private customers since 2018 and the 2nd most sold car to customers in 2024; Jogger, the C-segment versatile family car; Spring, the UK’s most affordable electric car; and Bigster, offering buyers of larger, family-friendly cars the robust, well-equipped, great value for money that they have been longing for. Present in 44 countries, Dacia has sold more than 9 million vehicles since 2004. Dacia launched in the UK in January 2013 and enjoyed the most successful start ever for a new car brand in the UK. More than 260,000 Dacia vehicles have been sold in the UK to date.

Honda 0 Series Saloon wins ‘Best EV Design’ at 2025 Top Gear EV Awards

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Images are for editorial use only. Honda’s 0 Series wins “Best EV Design” at the 2025 Top Gear Awards, recognising its sleek, futuristic styling and user-centric philosophy. Innovative tech like the ASIMO OS, and Level 3 autonomous driving set a new benchmark for smart, intuitive EV design. Production of the Honda 0 Saloon begins in 2026, leading a global rollout of seven new 0 Series models by 2030 across North America, Japan, and Europe. Honda’s innovative 0 Series Saloon has been honoured with the “Best EV Design” award at the 2025 Top Gear Awards. Further recognising the models groundbreaking approach to electric vehicle aesthetics and functionality. This accolade highlights Honda’s commitment to redefining mobility through thoughtful design and advanced technology.​ Unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Honda introduced the 0 Series, comprising the Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV prototypes. These models embody Honda’s “Thin, Light, and Wise” philosophy, aiming to expand design possibilities and enhance driving experiences. ​ Featuring key innovations such as ASIMO OS, a proprietary vehicle operating system that offers ultra-personalised user experiences by understanding occupant emotions and intentions, adjusting interior settings accordingly. ​Advanced Automated Driving: Level 3 automation capabilities allow hands-free driving under specific conditions, enhancing safety and convenience. ​ Featuring a one-motion form – characterised by a line rising smoothly from the front to the rear – and a low, wide design, the exterior styling of the Saloon expresses the suppleness and dynamism of the vehicle. The upright design of the side glass creates an expansive side panel while the shape narrows toward the side sills to accentuate the tyres. The interior features a simple and intuitive human-machine interface (HMI) that provides a sophisticated and seamless user interface (UI). The sporty styling with low vehicle height, sets the Saloon apart from other vehicles, realizing not only a seductive design, but providing an interior space that is more spacious than people would imagine from the exterior appearance. Greg Potts, Features Editor at TopGear.com said “The 0 Saloon and 0 SUV prototypes unveiled at CES 2025 both look incredible. They’re gloriously futuristic in their design, and we’re told that they’re 95 per cent ready to enter the real world. Honda says it’s taking a “Thin, light and wise” approach to developing the 0 Series, and it’d certainly be wise to get this pair of EVs onto our roads ASAP.” Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda Motor Europe UK said: “We’re incredibly proud to receive the ‘Best EV Design’ award from Top Gear. This recognition is a testament to the passion, creativity, and relentless innovation of Honda, pushing boundaries to redefine what an electric vehicle can be.” Honda plans to launch the production model of the Saloon in 2027 in Europe, positioning it as the flagship of the 0 Series. The lineup will include small-, medium-, and large-size models, aiming to introduce a total of seven 0 Series vehicles globally by 2030, starting with markets in North America, followed by Japan and Europe. ​ ENDS For media enquiries, please contact the team here:Bradley Beningfield Honda UK Automobile PR & Events Specialist bradley.beningfield@honda-eu.com +44 (0)7587 822 919 Emma Sugden Honda UK Automobile PR & Events Section Manager emma.sugden@honda-eu.com +44 (0) 7769 366346 (Working days Mon – Weds) Jenny Eaves Honda UK Automobile PR & Events Section Manager Jenny.Eaves.ext@honda-eu.com +44 7741 754816 (Working days Weds – Fri) Laura Fountaine Honda UK Automobile PR, Events and Corporate Affairs Department Manager laura.fountaine@honda-eu.com +44 (0)7741 379169 About Honda Honda Motor Europe (UK) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Honda (Japan). One of the top 20 brands in the world, Honda manufacturers a broad product range encompassing cars, motorcycles, power products (including marine, energy, lawn and garden and ATV) and aviation and was the first Japanese automobile manufacturer to release a dedicated luxury brand, Acura, in 1986. Honda has been the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer since 1959, as well as the world’s largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines measured by volume, producing more than 14 million internal combustion engines each year. Since 1986, Honda has been involved with artificial intelligence/robotics research and released their ASIMO robot in 2000. Honda has also ventured into aerospace with the establishment of GE Honda Aero Engines in 2004 and the Honda HA-420 HondaJet, which began production in 2012. For more information on Honda UK, visit: https://www.honda.co.uk/

Kia EV3 crowned Best EV Crossover at TopGear.com Electric Awards 2025

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Images are for editorial use only. Kia EV3 named TopGear.com’s ‘Best EV Crossover’ Latest award follows the EV3 being named TopGear.com’s ‘Crossover of the Year’ in 2024 The Kia EV3 has been named ‘Best EV Crossover’ at the TopGear.com Electric Awards 2025. Judged by TopGear.com’s expert team of road-testers, the annual awards highlight the best EVs on sale in the UK today. This award follows the EV3’s previous success in the overall 2024 TopGear.com Awards, where Kia’s newest electric car was also crowned ‘Crossover of the Year’. Paul Philpott, President & CEO of Kia UK Limited, said: “The EV3 has enjoyed an excellent start to 2025. It’s not only the UK’s best-selling EV to retail customers so far this year, but has also earned both UK and World Car of the Year awards. Being recognised as Top Gear’s Best EV Crossover is another fantastic achievement and further testament to how impressive the EV3 is. “As the EV3 continues its success, the Kia EV line up expands further in 2025. Both the EV4 and EV5 are coming to the showrooms of our nationwide dealer partners by year end, further enhancing our customer offering and making the switch to electric even more seamless.” Ollie Kew, Senior Road Test Editor at TopGear.com, said: “I drove the EV3 across the Outback. Not your usual road test route, admittedly, but the Kia just trucked along. The aircon blew ice cool, no numb bum after a four-hour stint, it exudes a grownup, big car feel. I like the mature composed ride, the minimal wind noise and the sense it’s been engineered like Golfs used to be. The most impressive bit? Despite the distance, the temperature, the relentless schedule and the impromptu off roading there were no error messages or glitches. I found myself bonding deeply with this sensible but complete little car.” Since sales started at the end of last year, the Kia EV3 has gone from strength-to-strength in the UK market – being both the best-selling EV in the UK retail market in Q1 and year-to-date, whilst also being named ‘2025 UK Car of the Year’ and ‘2025 World Car of the Year’, following in the footsteps of its larger sibling, the EV9, which also won both awards in 2024. While the EV3 may be Kia’s most affordable electric car, it also offers the longest range of all of Kia’s electric models – up to 375 miles* on a single charge. It also boasts an extensive list of standard equipment, even in entry-level ‘Air’ guise, benefiting from all-round LED lights, flush door handles, heated front seats and steering wheel, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, triple driver display screens (12.3-inch touchscreen navigation, 5.3-inch climate control screen, and 12.3-inch driver display), wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, and seven years’ free access to Kia Connect services. Ends Notes for editors*Range figures are determined according to the standardised EU measurement procedure (WLTP). Individual driving style and other factors, such as speed, outside temperature, topography and the use of electricity-consuming devices/units, have an influence on the real-life range and can possibly reduce it. Kia UK PR contact detailsFor further information on Kia please visit www.kiapressoffice.com or contact: Daniel SaylesHead of Press & Public Relations E: dsayles@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832 073 M: 07747 149 149 Tom RichardsPress Relations Manager E: trichards@kia.co.ukM: 07500 799 599 Milissa OrdoñaSenior Events Coordinator E: mordona@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832 069 M: 07753 520 911 Jonathan MuskSenior Corporate Communications Officer E: jmusk@kia.co.ukM: 07936 955 225 Chloe FarmerSenior Press Fleet Coordinator E: cfarmer@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832071 M: 07917 218 522 Will ReesSenior Press Officer E: wrees@kia.co.ukT: 01932 832079 M: 07795 011 475 Georgia BrownEvents Coordinator E: gbrown@kia.co.ukM: 07765 897 933 Rachel WychePress Office Assistant E: rwyche@kia.co.ukM: 07557 671 449 Follow Kia on Instagram @KiaUKPR Follow Kia at facebook.com/KiaUK Watch Kia at youtube.com/KiaUK

Renault 4 E-Tech Electric wins ‘Electric Car of the Year’ at Topgear.Com Electric Car Awards, headlining hat-trick of Trophies

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Images are for editorial use only. Renault 4 E-Tech electric wins ‘Electric Car of the Year’ and ‘Best Compact EV’ categories at the TopGear.com Electric Car Awards 2025 Judges impressed with Renault 4 E-Tech electric’s charismatic styling, impressive interior space and smart technology Renault 5 Turbo 3E named ‘EV We’re Most Looking Forward To Driving In 2025’ Awards follow the Renault 5 E-Tech electric claiming Top Gear’s ‘Car of the Year’ crown The Renault 4 E-Tech electric has claimed the top prize at the TopGear.com Electric Car Awards 2025, taking the ‘Electric Car of the Year’ crown. In addition, the latest pure-electric Renault was also awarded ‘Best Compact EV’. Making it a trio of awards, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E – the brand’s most powerful and most advanced road car ever – began its trophy-collecting career after it was aptly named the ‘EV We’re Most Looking Forward To Driving In 2025’. A modern reinvention that retains all the practicality and versatility of the iconic original, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric impressed the renowned website’s judges with its charismatic styling, impressive interior space and smart technology. Outlining the reasons that made the Renault 4 E-Tech electric the winner of not one but two awards, Paul Horrell, Consultant Editor of TopGear.com, said: “The new Renault 4 is a smart little modern car in itself, recognisably different from the waves of generic looking stuff washing up in dealers all over the country. In the EV age, design matters more and more. Renault’s real masterstroke is to build not just one small EV but a pair of them that are great cars, going way beyond relying on their design alone. The R5 is already our Car of the Year but the R4 pips it – to both Best Compact EV and the big one… our overall Electric Car of the Year – because it’s got the R5’s charm but space to go with it. Come for the looks… stay for the value, easy ownership, smart tech and genuinely happy drive.” The Renault 4 E-Tech electric offers impressive interior space thanks to its 2.62m wheelbase, particularly for those in the back seats. Exceptional boot space of 420 litres is made easily accessible by the wide, high opening and low load sill, and with the rear seats folded down, this versatile space grows to 1,405 litres. Renault’s OpenR Link system is standard across the range, accessed via a 10.1-inch central touchscreen, while a 100 kW DC charger means recharging from 15 to 80% takes just 30 minutes. The Renault 5 Turbo 3E reboots the iconic heritage of the Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 of the 1980s, two speed demons that made their mark on history with their exuberant character and impressive performance. Their turbocharged spirit is back for a new generation – modernised, fully electric, and more powerful than ever. Awarding it the title of ‘EV We’re Most Looking Forward To Driving In 2025’, Jack Rix, Editor-in-Chief of TopGear.com, explained: “Lunacy is what the Renault 5 Turbo has always been about. Its raison d’être stretching back to the 1980 original is to shock, amaze, be unruly and make little sense. This version is following the family business using ingredients from 2025, so naturally we’re chomping at the bit to have a go.” Two rear-mounted in-wheel motors together develop 540hp and a massive 4,800Nm of torque, delivering supercar performance in a diminutive package with a 0-62 mph time of less than 3.5 seconds. Production is strictly limited to just 1,980 individually numbered examples – a tribute to the year in which the original Renault 5 Turbo was launched. More information, and the chance to reserve the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, can be found at https://www.renault.co.uk/electric-vehicles/r5-turbo-3e.html while further details on the Renault 4 E-Tech electric are available at https://www.renault.co.uk/electric-vehicles/r4-e-tech-electric.html. END ABOUT RENAULTRenault, a historic mobility brand and pioneer of electric vehicles in Europe, has always developed innovative vehicles. With the ‘Renaulution’ strategic plan, Renault has embarked on an ambitious, value-generating transformation moving towards a more competitive, balanced and electrified range. Its ambition is to embody modernity and innovation in technology, energy and mobility services in the automotive industry and beyond. For further information, please visit www.press.renault.co.uk or @RenaultUKPR or contact:Jim HolderDirector of Communicationsjim.holder@renault.co.uk – 07779 227930 Christian TilburyPress Relations Managerchristian.tilbury@renault.co.uk – 07759 122784 Archie FinniePress Officerarchie.finnie@renault.co.uk – 07887 468977

70th Anniversary of the Suzulight – Suzuki’s very first car

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Images are for editorial use only. This Autumn, as Suzuki gets ready to launch e Vitara, it’s very first electric vehicle, it’s well worth reflecting on where it all began for Suzuki Motor Corporation 70 years ago. Back in the Autumn of 1955, Michio Suzuki personally delivered a Suzulight, his very first production car to a local doctor who had previously been conducting his house calls on a bicycle. Although Michio Suzuki had first started in business much earlier than that in March 1920 with the manufacture of textile looms. These became more advanced in design and very popular right through to the early 1950’s when there was a global decline in the cotton industry; Suzuki then decided to diversify into motorised transport with introduction of its first motorcycle in 1953 and the first car followed two years later. Initial research and development of Suzulight began as far back as 1937 although this had to be shelved later with the outbreak of the second World War. This development finally resumed in 1954 when Suzuki Motor Co Limited was formed. Using Suzuki’s ‘Yaramaika’ spirit, (translated as ‘Let’s do it’) which was deep in the root of the Enshu region where Suzuki originated together with his determination to drive forward, Michio Suzuki quickly began researching vehicles produced overseas and gained a wealth of knowledge. Suzulight was a compact vehicle measuring less than three metres in length and weighing just over 500kg. It was powered by a 360cc, 15PS two cylinder, two-stroke engine which was the first of its type to ever be fitted to a car. It was also the first car in Japan to feature a Front Wheel Drive / Front engine layout and was way ahead of its time with its independent coil spring suspension and rack and pinion steering. Suzulight easily met the Japanese ‘Keijidosha’ or Kei light car legislation and Suzuki and his team quickly began their first development road testing of it. As a prototype, its most memorable early drive was a 300km trip across the Hakone mountainous region between Hamamatsu and Tokyo which proved very challenging on roads that had not yet been paved. Although arriving very late in the evening, the team arrived to present the car to the President of ‘Yanase Auto’ Japan’s leading authority on Automobiles. The President had stayed on late to greet the team and made his way out to thoroughly test the car. Several hours later he returned very impressed and immediately gave Suzuki full approval to put the Suzulight into production. Production commenced in October 1955 with initial production of 3-4 cars per month but by early 1956 monthly volume had climbed to 30 units. 70 years on, Suzuki Motor Corporation remains globally renowned as the ‘small car experts’ and produces well over three million units per year with a projection of four million units annually by 2030. Michio Suzuki’s original strategy of design and production of lightweight vehicles lives on with platforms including ‘Heartect’ used in Swift, Vitara and S-Cross models and ‘Heartect-e’ which was specifically designed for e Vitara. ENDS. Media contacts:Alun ParryTelephone: 01908 336760Mobile: 07912 731407E-mail: alun.parry@suzuki.co.uk Jessica GrimditchTelephone: 01908 336775Mobile: 07710 582227E-mail: jessica.grimditch@suzuki.co.uk Twitter: @SuzukiPress Further information and high resolution photographs are available from the Suzuki Press website [http://media.suzuki.co.uk/] which can also be accessed by media via Newspress. For more information on the Suzuki product range visit https://cars.suzuki.co.uk/

Hyundai IONIQ 9 voted Best Seven-Seat EV at the 2025 TopGear.com Electric Awards

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Game-changing three-row electric SUV picks up prestigious award from TopGear.com Judges praise IONIQ 9’s appealing blend of design flair, clever packaging and smart tech Eagerly awaited IONIQ 9 will be available in the UK later this year Leatherhead, 07 May 2025 – The keenly anticipated Hyundai IONIQ 9 electric SUV has made a fast start to life in the UK by picking up its first major award already, being crowned Best Seven-Seat EV at the 2025 TopGear.com Electric Awards. The annual awards, now in their sixth year, are a celebration of the top choices in the rapidly evolving world of electrified vehicles, recognising impressive innovation across a number of diverse categories. An expert panel of judges voted the IONIQ 9 as a clear winner as the Best Seven-Seat EV thanks to its practicality, sharp styling and smart technology, underscoring Hyundai’s continued leadership in the field of electrification. Jack Rix, Top Gear Editor-in-chief, said: “Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 is both accomplished and clever. Its people carrying, quasi-minibus remit means its design is less ‘out there’ than the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, but the result is still cool. More importantly, it’s another Hyundai with design flair that is backed up by some genuinely useful thinking.” Since it was first revealed in Los Angeles in December, the IONIQ 9 has attracted plenty of praise thanks to its classy, clean and stylish design, with a premium, high-quality and beautifully executed cabin that provides a spacious, airy feeling. There’s a major focus on comfort, with the cabin’s lounge-like ambience offering exceptional roominess and innovative seating features for enhanced flexibility. There’s generous storage room, too, with up to 1,323 litres of luggage room with the rearmost row of seats folded, or 620 litres with all rows in place. Although UK specification has yet to be finalised, all models are powered by a 110.3 kWh long-range battery, with three motor configurations possible and a range of up to 620 km (WLTP est.). Charging is convenient and ultra fast with 800V charge capability and with Vehicle.-to-load (V2L) it makes EV life easier than ever. The driving experience is luxurious and refined, thanks to a smooth, comfortable ride, courtesy of a suspension set-up that has been specially designed for electric SUVs, featuring a MacPherson multi-link front and multi-link rear set-up, plus self-levelling dampers. The UK model line-up and pricing for the IONIQ 9 will be confirmed later this year. Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, said: “The excitement that is building towards the arrival of the Hyundai IONIQ 9 in the UK is tangible, and Top Gear’s award of Best Seven-Seat EV bolsters our confidence that this is a car which will hold very strong appeal for customers. Our electric offering is getting ever more comprehensive across the range, from small crossovers to performance cars to large SUVs, ensuring that whatever your need, we have an exceptional Hyundai that fits the bill.” A full list of TopGear.com Electric Awards winners will be available in the current issue of Top Gear magazine, on sale from 7 May, and online at TopGear.com For more information on all the cars in Hyundai UK’s award-winning range, visit www.hyundai.co.uk – End – About Hyundai Motor CompanyEstablished in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is present in over 200 countries with more than 120,000 employees dedicated to tackling real-world mobility challenges around the globe. Based on the brand vision ‘Progress for Humanity,’ Hyundai Motor is accelerating its transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. The company invests in advanced technologies such as robotics and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to bring about revolutionary mobility solutions, while pursuing open innovation to introduce future mobility services. In pursuit of sustainable future for the world, Hyundai will continue its efforts to introduce zero emission vehicles equipped with industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies. More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at: https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en or https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/newsroom About Hyundai Motor Europe HQHyundai Motor Europe HQ was formally established in 2000 with its main office in Offenbach, Germany. It is the regional headquarters responsible for selling vehicles in 47 European countries through 2,279 sales outlets, holding a 4.2 per cent market share in the first three quarters of 2023. More than 70 per cent of the vehicles Hyundai sold in the region are models engineered, tested, and built in Europe to meet the needs of European customers, served by the company’s Czech and Turkish production plants. In the third quarter of 2023, around 16.1 per cent of Hyundai cars sold in Europe were zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles (BEVs and FCEVs), including respective World Car of the Year 2022 and 2023 winners IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6. This makes Hyundai one of the leading manufacturers in terms of fleet share as well as total sales of zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles in Europe, as the company transitions to becoming a Smart Mobility Solutions Provider. More information about Hyundai Motor Europe HQ and its products is available at www.hyundai.news. Follow Hyundai Motor Europe HQ on Twitter @HyundaiEurope and Instagram @Hyundai.Europe About Hyundai Motor UKHyundai has sold vehicles in the UK since 1982 with its UK HQ based in Leatherhead, Surrey. As of February 2024, Hyundai has one of the youngest product ranges of any manufacturer, with almost all models younger than a year old. Hyundai is a pioneer in zero-emission mobility, including the fully electric, multi-award winning IONIQ 5 N, IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and KONA Electric ranges joined by the All-New INSTER, Hyundai’s latest EV offering launched in 2024, and second-generation fuel cell electric vehicle NEXO, as well as its advanced hybrid and plug-in hybrid Tucson and Santa Fe models. All new passenger cars come with Hyundai’s unique Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty package, providing customers with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, roadside assistance package, five years of vehicle health checks and an EV High Voltage battery warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles. Buyers of used Hyundai models are also protected by the…

Warrantywise celebrates 25th anniversary – from a kitchen table to the UK’s leading used car warranty provider

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Blackburn-based, family-run business Warrantywise marks its 25th anniversary in 2025 Founded in 2000 by Andrew and Andrea Whittaker at their kitchen table, later joined by their children, Lawrence Whittaker, who became CEO in 2008 and Apryl Keenan (nee Whittaker), the firm’s head of legal Now headquartered in a 25,000 sq ft office in Blackburn, the company employs nearly 200 people and serves private, dealer and corporate partners across the country Vision for future of company is to expand offering, power their people and focus on customer service and technology that underpins the products Blackburn, 7 May 2025 Warrantywise, one of the UK’s most established extended car warranty firms, is celebrating 25 years in business – a proud milestone for the family-founded firm that began life around a kitchen table in Blackburn. Founded in 2000 by Andrew and Andrea Whittaker, Warrantywise was born out of a simple but powerful idea: to offer drivers greater peace of mind with a fair, transparent and high-quality warranty package. What started out in the Whittaker family home has since grown into a nationwide operation, employing nearly 200 people, all dedicated to deliver extended warranties for millions of customers. From its roots in Lancashire, Warrantywise has steadily built a reputation for quality, clarity and customer service; focused on providing best-in-class products directly to drivers, alongside supporting independent dealership and corporate partners. Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of Warrantywise, said: “This is a deeply personal milestone for me and my family. When we started Warrantywise, we always believed there was a better way to serve motorists. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, the people who work here, and the impact we’ve had on the industry over the last 25 years. Our vision is to enable worry-free car ownership, and with our exceptional talent and reputation in the industry, it’s our mission to become the UK’s first choice warranty provider.” Whittaker continued, “It’s not just about looking back – it’s about building for the future and powering our team to create the era of worry-free car ownership. We’re continuing to invest in our people and processes to provide a better service, in turn supporting the next generation of car owners. And as ever, we’ll do it from our base here in the North West, where it all began.” The company’s journey has mirrored broader shifts in the motoring landscape, with increasing demand for extended plans in an era of rising repair costs and longer vehicle lifespans. Throughout it all, Warrantywise has remained focused on delivering clear, no-nonsense protection for its customers – winning praise for its customer service, claims process and commitment to fairness, including the appointment of TV personality and Wheeler Dealers mechanic, Edd China, as its expert arbiter in 2023. For more information, please visit www.warrantywise.co.uk. –ENDS– Notes to editors: About Warrantywise:Warrantywise is one of the UK’s leading used car warranty providers. Established in 2000, Warrantywise offers a high level of warranty for most vehicle types. Warrantywise provides extended car warranties for both private owners and independent dealer groups. Warranty plans include unlimited repairs, car hire, onward travel, parts and labour costs and emergency breakdown all as standard (subject to plan terms and conditions). It’s important to note that no warranty can protect from every possible scenario. Media contact:Hannah Burgesshannah@hannahburgesspr.com+44 (0) 7730 570975 Social media:Facebook: facebook.com/WarrantywiseX: x.com/warrantywiseLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/warrantywiseYouTube: youtube.com/user/warrantywise

Kia is headline sponsor for WOMAC Fundraiser

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Women On the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC) is pleased to announce Kia as the headline sponsor for its 2025 Fundraiser, to be held at The Kia Oval on June 17. Kia has been a long-time supporter of WOMAC, contributing vital funds towards research, treatments, awareness and care for those affected by cancer and their families. This year WOMAC is raising money for BRIGHT Cancer Care and Skcin. BRIGHT Cancer Care focuses on research and treatment options for patients with gastrointestinal (GI) and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) cancers. Its work funds research projects into different treatments for these cancers and funds new equipment for surgeries, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy and other advanced treatments. Skcin was set up to boost awareness of skin cancer, promote prevention methods and early detection in the UK. Skcin’s mission is to prevent people from becoming patients. The most at-risk group is 15 to 34 year-olds with 1 in 4 men affected as opposed to 1 in 5 women. The money raised by WOMAC will go towards Skcin’s education campaigns to save lives through prevention and early detection. Tickets go on sale this week. More information about the Fundraiser and how to book tickets will be available on the WOMAC website, www.womac.co.uk. Paul Philpott, President and CEO of Kia UK, said: “Kia is delighted to support WOMAC in its important mission and the fight against cancer. With so many affected by the disease, it’s an honour to continue to support the vital work WOMAC is doing and to help fund research, treatments, care and awareness.” To support BRIGHT Cancer Care and Skcin please visit WOMAC’s JustGiving page to pledge as much or as little as you can. Thank you for your support. www.justgiving.com/page/womac-24-25 To discuss sponsorship opportunities for the WOMAC Fundraiser, please contact nicola.humphreys@imprimatur.co.uk About WOMACWomen On the Move Against Cancer is a group of female volunteers working in the automotive industry. It was established in 1979 and aims to continue the fight against cancer by supporting a variety of projects, searching for more effective treatments or improving the quality of life for cancer sufferers, their families and carers. About Kia UKKia was founded in 1944 and is Korea’s oldest automobile manufacturer. Kia arrived in the UK in 1991 and has since grown to become the UK’s fourth best-selling brand in 2024, with sales in excess of 100,000 every year since 2022. Kia offers one of the widest model ranges available in the UK, from the Picanto city car to the fully-electric EV9 seven-seater SUV. The Sportage mid-size SUV, now in its fifth-generation, is one of the UK’s best-selling cars. Kia sells fully-electric models including the EV3, EV6, EV9 and Niro EV. Kia plans to have launched 15 EVs globally by 2027, including nine in the UK. Kia is transitioning to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider, with every model range set to include a fully electric version in the UK and Europe by 2035. In addition, Kia sells a range of plug-in hybrid (PHEV), full hybrid (HEV), mild hybrid (MHEV), petrol and diesel cars, ensuring choice for everyone. Kia’s long-term ‘Plan S’ global business strategy aims to establish the brand as a leader across future sustainable mobility spaces. Most recently, Kia UK revealed pricing and specification for its first PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle), the Kia PV5 – a highly flexible commercial vehicle offering best-in-class attributes, range, payload and cargo volume. Kia is supported in the UK by an established network of 191 dealerships, while its UK headquarters are located in Walton-on-Thames in Surrey, employing around 250 people. About BRIGHT Cancer Care BRIGHT funds ongoing research into improving treatment options and outcomes for patients and through the purchase of new equipment for a whole range of Gastrointestinal (GI) and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy and other advanced treatments. BRIGHT supports the clinical and research work of cancer specialists at St Luke’s Cancer Centre and the Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery Unit, both based at the Royal Surrey County Hospital (RSCH) in Guildford. For more information go to www.brightcancercare.org.uk About SkcinSkcin’s primary objectives are to: Raise awareness of skin cancer through education, promoting prevention and early detection. To engage higher risk target groups via bespoke educational initiatives. To ensure the continued development, longevity and participation in our national accreditation schemes. To campaign for change, make a difference and save lives. For more information go to www.skcin.org