Renault Group announces the appointment of Duncan Minto as Interim Chief Executive Officer

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Duncan Minto, currently Chief Financial Officer of Renault Group, will hold the position of Interim Chief Executive Officer of Renault S.A. Jean-Dominique Senard will assume the position of Chairman of Renault s.a.s. during this period The selection process for the new Chief Executive Officer is already well underway Boulogne-Billancourt, July 15, 2025 – The Board of Directors of Renault Group has decided to appoint, as of July 15, 2025, Duncan Minto as Chief Executive Officer of Renault S.A., for an interim period until the appointment of the new Chief Executive Officer. Currently CFO of Renault Group, Duncan Minto will ensure the day-to-day management of the company alongside Jean-Dominique Senard, who will hold the position of Chairman of Renault s.a.s., the operating company of the Group, during this period. Since 1997 in the Group, Duncan has a solid experience in finance and a deep understanding of the issues at stake. The selection process for the new Chief Executive Officer of Renault S.A. is already well underway, overseen by the Governance and Remuneration Committee of the Board of Directors. Renault Group will publish its half-year results on July 31. Born in 1975, Duncan Minto graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. Duncan Minto joined Renault Group in the UK in 1997. In 2001, he joined the Group’s Finance Department in France, where he was in charge of investor relations. He was then appointed Finance Director of Renault-Nissan Portugal in 2006, before becoming Managing Director of Renault Ireland in 2012, then CFO of the Group’s Asia-Pacific region in 2013. In 2017, Duncan Minto was promoted to VP Finance, Group Control Analysis. He was then appointed CFO of Dacia in 2022, before becoming CFO of the Alpine brand in 2023. On March 1, 2025, he was appointed Chief Finance Officer of Renault Group and became a member of the Leadership Team. RENAULT GROUPPRESS RELATIONS Valérie Gillot+33 6 83 92 92 96valerie.gillot@renault.com Rie Yamane+33 6 03 16 35 20rie.yamane@renault.com RENAULT GROUPINVESTORS RELATIONS Philippine de Schonenphilippine.de-schonen@renault.com+33 6 13 45 68 39 About Renault GroupRenault Group is at the forefront of a mobility that is reinventing itself. The Group relies on the complementarity of its 4 brands – Renault – Dacia – Alpine and Mobilize – and offers sustainable and innovative mobility solutions to its customers.Established in 114 countries, Renault Group sold 2.265 million vehicles in 2024. It employs more than 98,000 people who embody its Purpose every day, so that mobility brings people closer.Ready to pursue challenges both on the road and in competition, the Group is committed to an ambitious and value-generating transformation focused on the development of new technologies and services, and a new range of even more competitive, balanced, and electrified vehicles. In line with environmental challenges, the Group’s ambition is to achieve carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040.https://www.renaultgroup.com/en/

Calum James, General Manager of Farizon UK, responds to Government’s latest EV initiatives

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Images are for editorial use only. London, United Kingdom – 15 July 2025:“Any measure that proactively supports UK businesses to transition to zero emission electric vans is welcome. It could be great financially for business, great for the environment, and great for society as a whole. “But what’s imperative is that the investment is directed to where it will make the biggest material impact, and to ensure that takes place, I hope the industry – business operators, retailers and van manufacturers alike – will have their voices heard early on in this process. “Straightforward subsidies and incentives that make van purchases easier for businesses will be welcomed, of course, but that’s only part of the story. We need to remove the delays in the planning processes to unlock rapid expansion in the charging infrastructure, for example.” –ENDS– Media contacts:Jamie Fretwell: +44 7555 006859 / FretwellJ@jameelmotors.co.ukMolly Prout: +44 7874 856311 / farizon@pfpr.com About Jameel MotorsJameel Motors is a leading provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands with international operations in Türkiye, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Japan, China, Monaco; and represents some of the world’s most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands, including Toyota, Lexus, BYD, GAC Motor, MG Motor and Hino. Jameel Motors’ deep market knowledge as an independent international distributor enables its OEM partners to grow closer to their customers, driving both market share and sustainable growth with high customer satisfaction and loyalty. For more information, please visit jameelmotors.com About Farizon Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Geely Holding Group. With the support of Geely Holding Group’s Central Research Institute, Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group has founded China’s largest new energy commercial vehicle research institute. It is responsible for the R&D of a new generation of green and intelligent commercial vehicle products based on passenger vehicle technology. It has formed two core technology routes of “Methanol-Hydrogen + Electric”. Farizon has become China’s first commercial vehicle brand to offer a full range of new energy product. Farizon is committed to becoming a comprehensive intelligent and green transportation technology service provider. Farizon has doubled its Chinese market share for three consecutive years, with a product market share exceeding 20%, continuously consolidating its leading position in the new energy commercial vehicle industry. This year, Farizon has reached the milestone of 300,000 unit sales, becoming the first new energy commercial vehicle brand who ever achieved this goals. For more information regarding Zhejiang Geely Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group please refer to the official website at https://global.geelycv.com/

Plan, pack and prepare: GEM offers essential checks for stress-free European motoring

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Different rules on drink-driving, speeding and vehicle equipment apply in different countries Be sure to budget for road, bridge and tunnel tolls Many European cities have low emission zones, requiring you to display a sticker or register your vehicle Breakdown specialist GEM Motoring Assist is urging anyone driving abroad this summer to prepare thoroughly for a safe, smooth and enjoyable journey. Different countries have different driving rules, and with new emission zone rules in place across many European cities, GEM is urging drivers to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary stress, fines or breakdowns. Motoring in Europe can be an amazing experience, with a stunning variety of roads and landscapes, from the coastal highways of the Mediterranean to the mountain passes of the Alps. Exploring these spectacular locations by car offers the freedom to discover some ‘hidden gems’ at your own pace, while proper preparation plays a key part in ensuring a trouble-free trip, according to GEM. GEM’s six-point checklist for driving abroad: DocumentsEnsure your driving licence, insurance and vehicle registration documents are valid and accepted in your destination country. Some countries may require an International Driving Permit (IDP), so double-check the requirements before you set off. EquipmentMany countries require specific items such as high-visibility vests, warning triangles, spare bulbs and first aid kits. Motorhomes may need additional equipment such as fire extinguishers. Check your headlight settings; ensure lights are dipped in the opposite direction, or use deflectors once you’re abroad and the vehicle is being driven on the right. StickersYour vehicle must display a UK sticker when driving in most European countries, replacing the GB sticker of old. Some cities require Crit’Air or other environmental badges to enter low emission zones. Check requirements for each country and city on your route. RulesSpeed limits, drink-drive limits and mobile phone laws vary by country. GEM’s advice is always to put safety first: always use speeds that are both legal and safe; don’t drink and drive at all; never use a mobile phone while driving. Familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations and city-specific rules, especially for low emission or clean air zones. MedicationIf you are taking any prescription medicines, ensure you have enough for your journey – plus a contingency in case the trip is extended for any reason. TollsMany European roads, bridges and tunnels require toll payments. By the end of this year, it’s estimated that 500 European cities and towns will operate some sort of low emissions zone1. Some zones demand registration, others require a visible sticker or vignette. Charges and vehicle standards can differ widely, so check in advance to avoid fines. VehicleBefore departure, inspect your tyres, brakes, lights, oil and coolant levels. Ensure your vehicle is ULEZ/LEZ compliant if you plan to enter city centres, as non-compliant vehicles may be fined or denied entry. Make sure you have travel insurance and overseas breakdown cover, as the cost of vehicle recovery, repair and repatriation while abroad will be significant. Services in other countries differ from those in the UK; assistance in garages can take longer than you are used to. Have a translation app to help with local communication, especially if you experience vehicle trouble and need to understand what the repairing garage representative is telling you. James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, said: “Preparation is the key to a trouble-free motoring holiday. That includes ensuring your vehicle is ready for the journey, and means you need to be familiar with new laws and emission zone rules. “A bit of time spent doing your research and planning means you can then focus on enjoying your well-earned holiday with peace of mind.” “We want everyone to enjoy a safe, memorable trip this summer. A little extra planning now can save a lot of trouble later, ensuring you comply with the latest rules and keep your journey on track.” ENDS Keep up to date with GEM Motoring Assist at:X: @motoringassistFacebook: @gemmotoringassistInstagram: @gem_motoringassistLinkedIn: @gem-motoring-assist-limited Notes for editors1 Data from cleancitiescampaign.org GEM Motoring Assist provides two levels of recovery service; Recovery EXTRA and Recovery RECLAIM, to suit all needs and pockets. GEM provides a comprehensive and competitively priced Roadside Assistance and Vehicle Recovery Service. GEM is a Which? Recommended Provider for Breakdown Services 2024. GEM was Highly Commended in the Personal Finance Awards in 2022, 2023 and 2024. GEM’s breakdown cover has also been awarded a 5-star rating by Defaqto, meaning GEM provides one of the highest quality offerings in the market. GEM Motoring Assist was established in 1932, as an independent driver-based road safety association. GEM’s aim is to improve safety for all road users through the sponsorship and initiation of accident prevention measures throughout the UK and to provide motoring and safety information to its own members. Member benefits include a quarterly magazine, free literature and advice and discounts on insurance and other services. Press information: Neil Worth, Chief Executive, is available for comment on 01342-825676 (office) or 07798 663663 (mobile). Neil has worked within policing and community safety for more than 20 years. Alternatively you can email press@motoringassist.com for any further information.

Simpson & Partners comment on electric car grants

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. “Simpson & Partners, the UK based sustainable EV manufacturer welcomes the UK Government’s reintroduction of the Electric Car Grant, offering up to £3,750 off new fully electric vehicles under £37,000. Bringing back this support originally phased out in 2022 marks a vital step in reducing the upfront cost barrier and accelerating the shift to low-carbon transport. The additional £63 million investment in EV charging infrastructure is equally encouraging. By addressing practical concerns like cross-pavement charging for households without driveways and depot charging for fleets, this scheme helps ensure the transition to electric mobility is accessible to more people, not just the early adopters. We have friends in London who have been restricted using low emission vehicles because they don’t have a driveway and can’t charge from home. Grants supporting pavement installations for individual homes is the right step forward to support electric vehicle uptake in crowded cities. As a UK-based manufacturer of premium home and workplace EV chargers, Simpson & Partners we are ready to support the rollout of this infrastructure at scale. For the EV market to thrive, incentives like this must go hand-in-hand with a smart, dependable charging network. We’re especially supportive of the move to link grant eligibility to sustainability standards. As a business that prioritises design, durability, and sustainable technology, we welcome any measure that pushes the market toward better, more future-proof solutions. This announcement is much-needed boost to the UK’s EV journey, and we look forward to working with our partners, installers, developers, councils, and motorists to help make this opportunity count.” David Simpson, Co-founder, Simpson & Partners Ends For further enquires please contact:Karen Parry (e) karen@kpworks.co.uk (m) 07947 776967or Mandy Simpson (m) 07732 860654 Simpson & Partners EV Ltd, founded by husband-and-wife team Mandy and David Simpson, operates from the picturesque Cotswolds, UK. Dedicated to championing British engineering, the company designs and manufactures domestic and commercial EV chargers that blend craftsmanship, exceptional design, and intuitive cutting-edge technology. www.Simpson-partners.com

All-new Mercedes-Benz CLA lands in London for cutting-edge brand experience

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Milton Keynes, United Kingdom. Following its UK dynamic debut at last weekend’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, the all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA is starring in an interactive brand experience at Future Stores, an experimental retail space situated on one of Europe’s busiest shopping streets. Open to all between Tuesday 15th and Sunday 20th July, the space at 95 Oxford Street, London, gives passersby the opportunity to learn about and experience some of the cutting-edge technologies that underpin the most efficient, intuitive and intelligent Mercedes-Benz ever. “With its innovative, technology-led approach to a physical retail space, Future Stores is the perfect place to introduce both prospective and existing Mercedes-Benz customers to the all-new CLA. With the first cars due to arrive in the UK in the coming weeks, our Agents are receiving a healthy number of enquiries for our newest and most intelligent model.”Sally Dennis, Sales and Marketing Director, Mercedes-Benz UK The CLA is the first model in a completely new family of vehicles underpinned by the flexible Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), which has been designed to accommodate both electric and high-tech hybrid drivetrains. Initially the CLA is available as an all-electric model: the new CLA 250+ with EQ Technology has a range of up to 484 miles1 in Sport Edition specification and can be recharged at up to 320 kW – meaning over 200 miles of range can be added in just ten minutes2. The CLA will also be offered as a hybrid with a new four-cylinder combustion engine and 48-volt technology. Every new CLA is equipped with the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) – the fourth Mercedes- Benz User Experience (MBUX) generation. The new AI-enhanced system, developed in-house, makes it possible to equip every CLA with a supercomputer connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. MB.OS opens up a new world of personalised experiences and intuitive interaction between human and vehicle. Prices for the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology in Sport Edition specification start from £45,6153. Customers can place an order through the Mercedes-Benz Online Showroom or by visiting a Mercedes-Benz Agent. Detailed pricing and specifications are available on the Mercedes-Benz website. [ENDS] Press information and digital services for journalists can be found on the Mercedes-Benz Media online platforms at www.mercedes-benz-media.co.uk (UK) and media.mercedes-benz.com (global) 1 The specified values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement method. The ranges given refer to the European market. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the efficient utilisation of the fuel or energy source by the car, but also on the driving style and other non-technical factors.2 At DC fast-charging stations with 500 amps based on the WLTP range.3 All prices quoted are recommended ‘on-the-road’ prices, including the Road Fund Licence applicable to the standard model plus delivery charge (£730.00 incl. VAT), new vehicle registration fee (£55.00) and number plates (£25.00 incl. VAT). VAT is calculated at the standard rate of 20%. Contacts Debbie HullCommunications Director, Mercedes-Benz UKM: +44 (0) 7841 451444E: debbie.hull@mercedes-benz.com Rosie JohnsonPR Manager – Brand & Lifestyle, Mercedes-Benz UK M: +44 (0) 7714 674556 E: rosie.johnson@mercedes-benz.com Emma PassmoorHead of PR, Mercedes-Benz UKM: +44 (0) 7919 015995E: emma.passmoor@mercedes-benz.com Jo WatkinsPress Specialist, Mercedes-Benz UKM: +44 (0) 7834 198747E: joanne.watkins@mercedes-benz.com Tom HarrisonPR Manager – Automotive & Technology, Mercedes-Benz UK M: +44 (0) 7715 636976E: tom.harrison@mercedes-benz.com About Mercedes-Benz in the UKMercedes-Benz UK is the sales and marketing organisation responsible for all Mercedes-Benz Cars and services in Britain. As well as selling cars, parts, and services, the company runs Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands – a brand experience centre in Weybridge, Surrey. Mercedes-Benz World has welcomed over three million visitors since it opened in 2006. The UK is also home to Mercedes-Benz High Performance Powertrains and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1™ team.

The all-new Mercedes‑Benz CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology – more room for intelligence

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. The first electric Mercedes‑Benz Shooting Brake Panoramic roof and illuminated starry sky sets a new benchmark in the segment More space for passengers and luggage than in the previous model High everyday and travel suitability with a range of up to 761 kilometres according to WLTP1 Recharge up to 310 kilometres in 10 minutes3 The descriptions and data in this press release apply to the international model range of Mercedes-Benz. UK specification and technical data may vary. Copenhagen/Stuttgart. Just a few weeks after the premiere of the all-new CLA, Mercedes-Benz is presenting the second model of this completely new vehicle family. The all-new CLA Shooting Brake is the first electric Mercedes‑Benz available as an estate. It combines the elegance, sportiness and intelligence of the CLA with plenty of space for passengers and luggage as well as a high degree of interior versatility. Whether it’s a weekly shopping trip, a holiday with the whole family or a weekend trip with friends, it offers space for everything you need. The boot has a volume of 455 to 1,290 litres. The illuminated frunk under the front bonnet holds a further 101 litres. Surfboards or bicycles fit easily on the roof thanks to the standard roof rails. Their load capacity is 75 kilograms. And a jet ski or two motorcycles can be easily transported on a trailer. The towing capacity is up to 1,800 kilograms (braked). A WLTP range of up to 761 kilometres1 (CLA 250+ Shooting Brake with EQ Technology: combined energy consumption: 12.7-15.2 kWh/100 km | combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km | CO2 class: A)2 enables high everyday and travel suitability. Recharging for a further 310 kilometres3 (WLTP) is completed in 10 minutes. The European market launch of the CLA Shooting Brake with EQ Technology will start in March 2026. “The new CLA Shooting Brake is designed for those who appreciate the dynamism of a sporty vehicle but don’t want to compromise on space and practicality in everyday life. It combines intelligent technology and efficiency to deliver a fresh, engaging driving experience. For our customers, this means more space for individuality, travelling and for their own personal lifestyle.”Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Sales With the CLA Shooting Brake, Mercedes‑Benz is taking its conceptual invention of combining the sporty proportions of a four-door coupé with more cargo space and a large tailgate into the electric age. This concept celebrated its debut in 2012 with the CLS Shooting Brake. In 2015, Mercedes‑Benz successfully established itself in the compact segment with the first CLA Shooting Brake. Sporty proportions with a radiant front and unique rear designThe all-new CLA Shooting Brake is identical to the CLA Saloon right up to the B-pillar. This means a low greenhouse, sporty shark-nose design and a unique front panel with 142 individually illuminated chrome-look LED stars. Together with the optional MULTIBEAM LED headlights and light strip, the illuminated panel with a Mercedes‑Benz pattern contributes to the unmistakable identity of all models in the new vehicle family. The rear lights also have a star-shaped design and are connected by a light strip. The roofline of the CLA Shooting Brake stretches further back with a more gradual drop. The one-piece panoramic glass roof extends seamlessly from the windscreen frame to the rear end. The spoiler is painted black on the inside and in body colour on the outside. This gives the impression that the glass roof carries over into the rear windscreen. It brings an additional unique elegance to the rear end. Switchable large panoramic roof with illuminated starry skyThe large panoramic roof sets a new standard in the segment. It creates an exceptionally generous and open feeling of space. To protect against solar radiation, it consists of heat-insulating laminated safety glass with an infrared-reflecting and a low-emissivity (LowE) coating on the inside. This reduces heating of the vehicle interior in summer. In winter, the LowE coating reduces heat loss by reflecting the interior heat back into the room. At 200 nanometres, it is thinner than a human hair, which has a diameter of about 50,000 nanometres. The panoramic roof is optionally available with a new function. With it, the transparency of the glass can be changed in 10 to 20 milliseconds. Passengers can choose between transparent for a clear view upwards or opaque for more privacy. The opaque (milky) state not only protects against prying eyes from outside but also offers improved glare protection in direct sunlight. It is operated via a corresponding menu in the vehicle settings in the head unit. As the icing on the cake, the large panoramic roof is even illuminated. For the first time, it is connected to the ambient lighting and offers an illuminated starry sky. 158 stars are integrated into its glass surface, which can be illuminated in the individually selected colour of the ambient lighting. The light is fed in from the front via LED modules. The starry sky is almost invisible during the day. But in the dark, it surprises with a unique visual experience, especially for the rear passengers. It invites you to lean back and relax and also attracts attention from the outside. In combination with the new light signature at the front and rear, the illuminated glass roof gives the CLA Shooting Brake an unrivalled appearance. More spacious than ever before – more room for passengers and luggageThe longer roof with a roofline that slopes gently towards the rear provides more headroom in the second row of seats than in the CLA (+26 millimetres). Access to the rear is also even more comfortable thanks to the larger door cut-outs. Compared to its predecessor, the all-new CLA Shooting Brake offers more headroom in each of the five seats thanks to a higher roofline. The increase for rear passengers is seven millimetres. In the front row of seats, the headroom increase is 14 millimetres, while legroom has increased by 11 millimetres. The all-new CLA Shooting Brake is 35 millimetres longer (4,723 millimetres) and 27 millimetres higher (1,469 millimetres)…

Kia adds new level to navigation with the launch of Google Points of Interest

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Images are for editorial use only. Kia continues to offer new digital features that can elevate the vehicle’s capabilities and make driving more convenient A POI can be any establishment with a name and location that is recognised by Google, marked on the map with up-to-date information Further Kia models with connected car Navigation Cockpit will receive Google POIs as a free over-the-air software update The Kia EV4 is the brand’s first electric hatchback, designed specifically for Europe to navigate cities, cross the continent, and make electrified mobility available to more customers. Versatile and practical, the model is also highly connected – the EV4 is Kia’s first model to include Google Points of Interest (POIs) as part of the navigation system. For many, Google is the go-to method for looking up information about places, establishments, attractions, and sights. A POI can be any establishment with a name and location that is recognised by Google and is marked as a pin on the map, along with up-to-date information. The addition of Google POIs to the EV4 navigation system enables customers to access extensive POI details, including parking, opening hours, prices, busy periods, and much more, on top of getting an improved turn-by-turn route directly to the POI. “Offering extensive details about places through Google POIs enables customers to make informed decisions ahead of each journey and to adjust once they are on the road,” said Pablo Martinez Masip, Vice President of Product & Marketing at Kia Europe. “Places close, opening hours change, more parking is made available, and giving our customers all of this information and more on the in-car screen adds an exciting new level to navigation and the driving experience.” Google POIs will be available in the Kia EV4 from the start of vehicle production. All other Kia models with connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) will be able to receive Google POIs as a free update this summer and all upcoming Kia models with ccNC will come with Google POIs preinstalled. An important benefit of Google POIs is that real-time updates are made directly by users within the Google ecosystem, to continuously improve and enhance the quality of location information. This extends to including recent photos, menus, ratings, reviews, accessibility and more. Ends 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.ukM: +44 7747 149 149 Tom RichardsPress Relations Manager E: trichards@kia.co.ukM: +44 7500 799 599 Milissa OrdoñaSenior Events Coordinator E: mordona@kia.co.ukM: +44 7553 520 911 Jonathan MuskSenior Corporate Communications Officer E: jmusk@kia.co.ukM: +44 7936 955 225 Chloe FarmerSenior Press Fleet Coordinator E: cfarmer@kia.co.ukM: +44 7917 218 522 Will ReesSenior Press Officer E: wrees@kia.co.ukM: +44 7795 011 475 Georgia BrownEvents Coordinator E: gbrown@kia.co.ukM: +44 7765 897 933 Poppy SargentPress Office Assistant E: psargent@kia.co.ukM: +44 7557 671 449 Follow Kia on Instagram @KiaUKPR Follow Kia at facebook.com/KiaUK Watch Kia at youtube.com/KiaUK

Power play – new UK Government Electric Car Grant sparks questions, not confidence

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Images are for editorial use only. London, UK 14 July 2025, embargoed to 22:30 Comment from Stuart Masson, Editorial Director of The Car Expert, on the recently announced Electric Car Grant from the UK Government. It is part of the Plan for Change and comes into effect on 16 July. “The Government’s new £650 million Electric Car Grant (ECG), offering up to £3,750 off new electric cars priced under £37,000, looks good in a headline. But in reality, it feels like another policy designed to help car manufacturers far more than ordinary drivers. “At a time when an overwhelming majority of households buy used cars rather than new, focusing £650 million entirely on new vehicle sales seems short-sighted. There’s nothing here for used EV buyers – no support for those looking to switch from older, higher-polluting petrol and diesel cars to more affordable second-hand electric vehicles. If cutting emissions is the goal, wouldn’t helping these drivers make the most difference? “There’s also the question of whether this money will genuinely lower prices. History suggests otherwise. As seen with past EV grants, solar panel incentives and even stamp duty cuts, manufacturers and dealers often adjust prices upwards when grants are available – reducing or even eliminating the benefit for consumers. This, therefore, risks becoming just another subsidy absorbed into the industry’s bottom line. “Meanwhile, the Government’s approach feels inconsistent. This year alone, taxes on EVs have increased: road tax and Congestion Charge liability are coming for EVs from 2025, and cars priced above £40,000 face the same luxury car tax applied to petrol and diesel models. Now, suddenly, grants are back on the table to drive down EV prices. Such mixed messages undermine public confidence and feed into the myth that EVs are only affordable with government handouts. “Perhaps most frustrating of all, today’s funding could have tackled the UK’s biggest EV challenge: infrastructure. Poor public charging access remains the single biggest barrier for many would-be EV owners. Investing £650 million into charging stations across the UK would have benefited every EV driver – new and used – and accelerated adoption in every region. “In short, while this new grant will help some drivers, it’s hard to ignore the sense that industry lobbying has won out over strategic thinking. Supporting electric cars is essential – but this scheme feels more like a quick headline win than a real plan for change.” For further information, interviews or data requests, please use the media contacts listed below. – ENDS – About The Car Expert: Established in 2011, The Car Expert is the UK’s leading automotive consumer advice platform, reaching over two million readers annually. It offers unbiased and comprehensive guidance on all aspects of purchasing, financing, owning, and selling both new and used cars. Often referred to as the Rotten Tomatoes of the automotive industry, The Car Expert’s award-winning Expert Rating Index compiles and aggregates tens of millions of key data points on every new car (as well as a growing number of used cars), including almost 16,000 new car reviews from 35 of the UK’s top motoring websites. It also factors in complete safety data from Euro NCAP, reliability data and five-year running cost information. This Index uses scientific methods and data analysis to calculate a weighted average score, known as the Expert Rating, which allows for comparison across various brands and models. The Index also adjusts for the age of each review, giving more weight to recent ones, and standardises the diverse scoring systems used across different platforms. With 20+ million data points covering 500+ cars from 50+ manufacturers, the Expert Rating Index has become the trusted benchmark for evaluating and ranking new cars in the UK. For more information, visit: thecarexpert.co.uk Media Contact:Hannah Burgesshannah@hannahburgesspr.com+44 (0) 7730 570975

Renault Group UK and RAC partnership wins ‘Customer Experience Brand of the Year’ at CCA Global Excellence Awards 2025

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Renault Group UK and RAC partnership honoured at the CCA Global Excellence Awards 2025 ‘Customer Experience Brand of the Year’ award recognises commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation within the industry The two businesses also won the ‘Best BPO Partnership’ award, further underlining their shared synergies that help create an excellent customer experience Renault Group UK’s collaboration with the RAC – which provides roadside assistance, customer contact centres and digital experiences – stretches back to 2014 Renault Group UK and its partner the RAC have won the ‘Customer Experience Brand of the Year’ trophy at the CCA Global Excellence Awards, which celebrate world-class achievements in customer service and experience. In addition, the success of the companies’ working together was recognised, with Renault Group UK and RAC being haloed for their Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) collaboration, the partnership winning the ‘Best BPO Partnership’ award. Running for more than 25 years, the CCA Awards are a benchmark of excellence, highlighting innovation, resilience, and outstanding performance across both public and private sectors. This year’s awards recognised organisations that have gone above and beyond in creating customer-centric strategies, achieving high levels of customer satisfaction and implementing innovative practices that set them apart in their industry. Accepting the award at the glittering awards ceremony held at DoubleTree By Hilton, Glasgow, Mathieu Mignon, Director of Aftersales at Renault UK, said: “I want to take a moment to recognise the outstanding achievement Renault Group UK have accomplished together with the RAC. This award is a true testament to the strong partnership between us, as well as our unwavering commitment to prioritising our customers’ needs.” Peter Tilbury, Head of Customer Care at Renault Group UK, added: “Our two companies have been working together for over a decade, and this latest win highlights the success of our partnership in providing a comprehensive level of customer service across all Renault Group UK brands, including through our service centres, roadside assistance and digital interactions.” This is the second time the Renault Group UK and RAC partnership has been honoured at the CCA Awards, having been previously recognised in the prestigious Global Excellence in Business Process Outsourcing Collaboration category in 2022. Both the RAC and Renault Group UK are known for their focus on putting customers at the heart of their business. They strive to create a consistent and seamless experience across all touchpoints, and in recent years that has included providing dedicated assistance to electric vehicle customers with EV Boost and All-Wheels-Up recovery systems. 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

Performance hybrids get best of both worlds with Milltek exhausts

Industry News

Images are for editorial use only. Latest BMW M5 G90 system now available Hybrid SUV range includes Land Rover, Lamborghini and Porsche Milltek investing in hybrid exhaust development Owners of high performance hybrids can now revel in electrifying power and sound thanks to Milltek’s range of exhausts for many of the most desirable models. The latest G90 BMW M5, including the Touring, has been added to Milltek’s catalogue with an Axle Back Exhaust System with a variety of tip options. This system can also be used on M Sport Carbon Pack models, and there’s a motorsport-only GPF Delete option that uses a valved Active Centre section operated by the driver. Land Rover models are catered for with an Axle Back system for the Range Rover P460e, P510e and P550e versions. Defender owners have the choice of a Particulate Filter Back system with tip options for the P300e and P400e to fit the 90, 110 and 130 derivatives. For even more aural enhancement, Defender owners can opt for the non-resonated Particulate Filter Back system. Milltek is also developing exhaust systems for the Lamborghini Urus SE and Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid to be launched in the near future. “We believe hybrid vehicles are a big part of the automotive future,” says Kev Hall, Technical Operations Manager of Milltek. “This is why we are investing in developing performance exhausts for more hybrid models. “This delivers the best of all worlds to owners. They enjoy the benefits of an electrified drivetrain with enhanced exhaust sound, as well as the longevity of Milltek’s aircraft grade stainless steel systems developed here in the UK and produced at our Derby facilities.” -End- AboutFounded in the UK in 1983 by a true car enthusiast, Milltek has grown to become a global, leading manufacturer of performance exhaust systems for a continually expanding range of vehicles. With headquarters in Derby, UK, a development and testing centre near Germany’s iconic Nürburgring race circuit, and a recently opened USA facility in Tennessee, Milltek designs, develops and tests its range of exhaust systems in-house using state of the art equipment. Milltek caters for the latest range of performance and premium vehicles, whilst staying true to their roots with an OEM+ range of systems for a wide range of heroes from the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s. MLTK by Milltek provides a range of bespoke engineered and styling products for overland and performance cars. All MLTK products are designed and manufactured in-house at Milltek’s HQ in Derbyshire using same engineering expertise as its performance exhausts. Notes to editorsTo arrange an interview or request more information regarding this press release, please get in touch using the information below. Milltek currently has a range of demo cars available for media test drives. Please ask for further details if this is of interest. Media contactsJohn Rawlings | Loop AgencyJohn.Rawlings@loopagency.co.uk07847 371436