KGM Motors celebrates 70-years: From humble beginnings to a global manufacturer of award-winning SUVs and pick-up trucks

Industry News

KGM Motors, formerly SsangYong, is proud to commemorate seven decades of automotive innovation. Celebrating a rich legacy that began with modest origins in the Ha Dong-Hwan Motor workshop in 1954, KGM Motors holds the distinction of being the only manufacturer in Korea that is exclusively dedicated to the production of SUVs and 4×4 vehicles. Renowned for its pioneering spirit and commitment to crafting award-winning vehicles, the company has a long history of innovation and has remained at the forefront of automotive engineering. The manufacturer initially began producing trucks, buses and special-purpose vehicles for the export market, establishing the strong and reliable DNA of its products on the market today. Over the years, the company evolved into the highly renowned SsangYong Motor Company before transitioning to its current name, KGM Motors – “Korean Genuinely Made”. Throughout this journey, the brand has maintained a steadfast commitment to advancing the boundaries of what is possible in the SUV and 4×4 market and continues to evolve, leading the charge with a range of awarding-winning vehicles. Driven by a passion for innovation and a commitment to mastery in the sector, KGM Motors continues to push the boundaries in automotive design and engineering. With a focus on crafting its key components and cutting-edge engines, the company is proud to unveil an exciting roadmap of new models projected through the mid-2020s. This includes a renewed emphasis on eco-friendly engines and the introduction of models powered by pure-electric drivetrains, further solidifying KGM’s position as a developer in sustainable mobility. At the heart of KGM Motors’ product portfolio are vehicles that embody the brand’s new design philosophy of ‘Powered by Toughness,’ combining rugged durability with sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology. From the multi-award-winning Musso pickup and Rexton to the latest additions like the Torres in a 1.5 petrol variant and the Torres EVX pure electric variant, each vehicle exemplifies KGM’s unwavering commitment to quality, performance, and innovation. Looking ahead, the brand continues to develop concept models in collaboration with BYD, utilising BEV-dedicated platforms. The production of models such as a new BEV pick-up truck and a new BEV mid-sized SUV is expected to commence in the first half of 2025, marking another milestone in KGM’s journey towards a more sustainable future. The headquarters for KG Mobility is in the Gangnam district of Korea’s capital, Seoul, and its principal vehicle manufacturing plant is currently at Pyungtaek, which has the capacity and latest technology to produce 240,000 cars a year. The company has invested in a new factory, in the same area, which has been developed specifically to accommodate the production of pure-electric vehicles. Closer to home in the UK, the transition to KGM Motors represents a transformative milestone for the brand, ushering in a new era of progression and redefining the company’s product vision for the future. The brand has a realistic growth strategy and a firm focus on the expansion of an evenly spread 80-strong dealer network by the end of 2024. On the occasion of KGM Motors’ 70th anniversary, the company reaffirms its dedication to strive towards a future of more intelligent, secure, and sustainable mobility than ever before. -ENDS- MADE IN KOREA KGM Global (formerly KGM Motor Company) is a Korean car manufacturer specialising in 4x4s, SUVs, MPVs and pick-up trucks. Initially established in 1954, the company produced trucks, busses, and special purpose vehicles for the export market, establishing the strong and reliable DNA of its products on the market today. The headquarters for KG Mobility is in the Gangnam district of Korea’s capital, Seoul, and its principal vehicle manufacturing plant is currently at Pyungtaek, which has the capacity and latest technology to produce 240,000 cars a year. The company has invested in a new factory, in the same area, which is has been developed specifically for to accommodate the production of pure-electric vehicles. KGM UK distribution rights were acquired by Bassadone Automotive Group in 2011. Operating as KGM UK Limited in the UK, as the official importer and distributor of KGM vehicles, parts, and accessories. KGM UK Limited has undergone dramatic transformation over recent years with the implementation of a new management team and a new growth strategy with a firm focus on the expansion of an evenly spread dealer network to 80-strong in 2024. Its proposition offers UK customers a full range of SUV’s and pick-ups with generous specifications, each with value for money prices. KGM Motors UK LimitedOnline press office visit: https://kgm-motors.media Vanessa Cox Director of Communications E: vanessa.cox@kgm-motors.co.uk T: 07535 875997 Toby Noakes Communications Executive E: toby.noakes@kgm-motors.co.uk T: 07932 602457 Aidan O’Neill Communications Executive E: aidan.oneill@kgm-motors.co.uk T: 07443 227636

ABB’s PixelPaint selected by Mahindra to deliver premium paint options

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Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) will deploy ABB Robotics’ PixelPaint to deliver personalization options for new line of EVs M&M will be the first OEM in India to use PixelPaint technology for the painting of contrasting roofs and pillars ABB’s award-winning technology improves quality and efficiency while reducing waste ABB’s innovative PixelPaint technology has been selected by Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M), India’s leading SUV manufacturer, for its new electric vehicle paint facility. The technology, which uses an award-winning paint head similar to an inkjet printer, will begin serial production in 2025. “Our revolutionary PixelPaint technology can apply large areas of uniform color as well as the tiniest details with complete accuracy, without delaying the production line or the need for manual intervention,” said Joerg Reger, Managing Director of ABB Robotics Automotive Business Line. “By deploying PixelPaint-equipped robots in dedicated cells, Mahindra’s paint shop will be able to apply finishes such as contrasting roof and pillar treatments on its new line of EVs in a completely automated process.” PixelPaint consists of a paint head with more than 1,000 tiny, individually controlled nozzles, mounted on an ABB robot such as the IRB 5500 paint series. Combined with ABB’s 3D vision system and coordinated by ABB’s RobotStudio® planning and programming software, the head tracks very closely to the vehicle body to ensure that 100 percent of the paint is applied to the car with no overspray or airborne misting. This eliminates the need for labor-intensive masking and repeat trips through the paint shop, resulting in zero waste while ensuring faithful reproduction of precise details. Demand for personalization options has been growing in recent years, and PixelPaint is just one example of how ABB’s transformative technologies are helping to establish Mahindra’s products within the luxury segments. The deployment, which builds on ABB and Mahindra’s existing relationship, also includes 42 robots from the IRB 5500 family making M&M the first OEM in India to use PixelPaint technology for the painting of contrasting roofs and pillars. Complex and time-consuming operations such as interior painting and sealing are performed entirely autonomously, with the accuracy of ABB’s systems ensuring that paint is applied precisely and only where needed, eliminating the need to manually mask off areas, saving time and materials. Similarly, ABB’s RB1000i digitally-enabled paint atomizers improve transfer efficiency by 10 percent and reduce waste by more than 30 percent, ensuring less paint is lost to the air. For more information on ABB’s PixelPaint, please visit: https://new.abb.com/products/robotics/functional-modules/pixelpaint ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. The company’s solutions connect engineering know-how and software to optimize how things are manufactured, moved, powered and operated. Building on over 140 years of excellence, ABB’s more than 105,000 employees are committed to driving innovations that accelerate industrial transformation. www.abb.com ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation as one of the world’s leading robotics and machine automation suppliers, is the only company with a comprehensive and integrated portfolio covering robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots and machine automation solutions, designed and orchestrated by our value-creating software. We help companies of all sizes and sectors – from automotive to electronics and logistics – become more resilient, flexible and efficient. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation supports customers in the transition towards the connected and collaborative factory of the future. The business area employs approximately 11,000 people at over 100 locations in approximately 53 countries. go.abb/robotics For more information please contact: Rory SmithMedia RelationsPhone: +447548780120Email: rory.smith@gb.abb.com

All-new Dacia Duster wins its first UK award as Auto Express names it ‘Small SUV of the Year’

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The All-New Dacia Duster wins the ‘Small SUV of the Year’ category at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2024 Latest generation of the automotive icon praised for how it builds on the success of the previous Duster with the new version being more spacious, connected, sustainable and capable Before its official UK launch later this year, the All-New Duster is already continuing the winning ways of its formidable predecessor Over 15,000 UK car buyers have already registered their interest in the All-New Duster via Dacia’s website. Dacia Jogger has also been ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Family Car’ and ‘Affordable Hybrid’ categories The All-New Dacia Duster has continued the winning ways of its formidable predecessor, scooping the trophy for ‘Small SUV of the Year’ at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2024. It is the first UK industry award to be given on the third generation of the iconic Duster with the highly coveted accolade coming several months before the robustly-styled SUV officially arrives in the brand’s showrooms later this year. Additionally, the Dacia Jogger was also recognised at the annual awards, being ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Family Car’ and ‘Affordable Hybrid’ categories. This year’s success also follows Dacia picking up several awards at the 2023 ceremony. The Auto Express judges named the newest Duster as the best small SUV available after being won over by how it builds on the icon’s legacy. They are not the only ones to be impressed too, with more than 15,000 UK car buyers having already registered their interest in the All-New Duster since early details were announced last year. Paul Barker, Editor, Auto Express, explained why the renowned outlet chose to award the All-New Duster: “The new Dacia Duster takes everything that we loved about the old one, and makes it better. It looks even more strong and chunky, it’s more efficient and practical than ever and all wrapped up in a very affordable package. Everything we look for in a great small SUV.” Luke Broad, Dacia Brand Director for the UK, added: “Even before the official UK launch the All-New Duster is adding to the model’s award-winning legacy. New and existing Duster fans will have already seen the positive reviews, but this award goes a step further and officially tells anyone who’s considering the All-New Duster that as soon as it arrives on our shores, it will be the best small SUV in the UK.” The Auto Express New Car Awards celebrate the best in the business across a wide array of categories, highlighting the most impressive cars available over the entire automotive landscape. The winners are determined by the things that are important to car buyers, helping people choose the right car for them regardless of budgets and requirements. The All-New Duster debuts with a tougher, more assertive design and is based on the innovative CMF-B platform. As well as enhancing the amount of space for passengers and luggage, all without making the new generation version any longer than the previous Duster, the platform also enables the All-New Duster to be offered with electrified powertrains using mild-hybrid and full-hybrid technologies. To go with its bolder, more robust style, the All-New Duster is even more capable than before. The 4×4 version takes the model’s off-road capabilities to new heights, being the best in the non-expert 4×4 market (determined by those without a low-range transmission) and offering more ground clearance than its rivals. A new, more digitally-connected interior, plus the use of tougher and more sustainable materials throughout, complete the appeal of the All-New Duster.

Kia EV9 scoops category win at Auto Express New Car Awards 2024

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Kia EV9 wins ‘Large Company Car of the Year’ EV9 praised for its real-world range and space-for-seven Kia’s largest EV adds another major win to its ever-growing tally The Kia EV9 has been named victorious at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2024, collecting a category win as ‘Large Company Car of the Year’, flexing its award-winning credentials yet again. The awards are decided following a lengthy and detailed judging process by the editorial team at Auto Express. The team analyse all elements of the customer proposition including, price, practicality, styling, tech, safety equipment, connectivity, powertrain efficiency and more, and how these factors measure up against the competition. Customer deliveries of the Kia EV9 first commenced in January 2024, and it has proven a popular model with Kia customers, fleet and retail alike. Currently with a split of roughly 60:40 in favour of fleet sales, the EV9 is one of the most flexible new cars on sale, capable of suiting a wide range of needs for company car users. Offered with two per cent Benefit-in-Kind, a range of up to 349 miles on a single charge, ultra-fast 800V charging capacity[1], and space for six or seven; depending on trim level opted for, the EV9 makes perfect sense for company car users who either require cavernous cargo space, or those who regularly undertake longer journeys. “Kia is a brand that blurs the boundaries between mainstream and premium brands, and the striking EV9 is the brand’s poshest car yet,” said Auto Express Editor Paul Barker. “Strong performance, a smooth ride and aesthetics that offer genuine wow-factor both inside and out combine with genuine practicality thanks to its up-to seven-seat layout.” Further success for the EV9 came in the form of recognition as a ‘Highly Commended’ model in the ‘Large SUV of the Year’ class, while the Kia Sportage picked up the same commendation in its own category, the ‘Mid-sized SUV of the Year’ class. Kia’s smaller models have previously impressed the Auto Express team, too. In 2022, the Kia Niro collected the prize for ‘Small SUV of the Year’; that particular model’s first award from any publication which helped the small SUV get off to a flying start. Kia’s bold electrification plans also mean that the only way is up for company car users, as the brand’s already vast EV line-up is set to grow to 15 worldwide by 2027. The EV9 will be joined by the smaller EV3 later this year, which will also offer a competitive package to UK customers, personal and company car shopper alike.

Collect four: new Octavia, Superb, Kodiaq and Enyaq clean up with more awards silverware

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Škoda takes three category wins at Auto Express New Car Awards New Octavia named Best Family Car by Auto Express’s expert judging panel All-new Kodiaq and Superb take Best Large SUV and Best Estate category titles Kodiaq makes it three in a row, having won in 2022 and 2023 Enyaq named Best Electric Large SUV in the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards Milton Keynes, 3 July 2024: Škoda has landed another haul of industry accolades by taking three category honours at the annual Auto Express New Car Awards and driving off with a major title in the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards. The new Octavia, all-new Superb and all-new Kodiaq marked their arrival in the UK by scoring top marks with the Auto Express judging panel while the Enyaq continued its winning streak. Leading the way was the new Octavia – a car that has won more than its fair share of silverware at previous Auto Express New Car Awards, including overall Car of the Year in 2020. For 2024, it was named Family Car of the Year, seeing off fierce competition to take the top award. Commenting on the Octavia’s victory, Auto Express Editor Paul Barker, said: “The updated Octavia looks smarter and is better equipped than ever. And as before, the Octavia plays best as an ultra-capable, long-distance, comfy cruiser. At this game, there are few that can truly rival it.” The updated Octavia wasn’t the only new Škoda model to wow the Auto Express judging panel. The all-new Superb and Kodiaq were both named as best in class in the Estate Car and Large SUV categories respectively. The new models, which arrived in UK showrooms in June 2024, introduce a raft of new technologies and offer even greater levels of practicality than their predecessors – something that wasn’t lost on the Auto Express judges. “The new Superb and Kodiaq build on the success of the previous generation cars.”, explained Paul Barker. “Both add a new layer of premium sophistication and interior quality to sit alongside the practicality, efficiency and clever innovation that we, and buyers, so love.” The Kodiaq has now won the Best Large SUV award three times in a row and has racked up no fewer than five category wins at the Auto Express New Car Awards. The Superb has now been named best in its class on five occasions, making it one of the most successful cars at the Auto Express New Car Awards. Away from the Auto Express Awards, the Enyaq was named Best Electric Large SUV in the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards. Škoda’s multi-award-winning all-electric SUV was praised by Diesel&EcoCar Editor and Publisher Ian Robertson for its all-round talents, commenting: “The Enyaq is still our favourite Volkswagen Group electric car. Sleek and handsome without being too wacky, the Enyaq is a family favourite thanks to its spacious back seats and giant 585-litre boot on the SUV edition.” A database of media assets including images, technical information and video is available for download at www.skodamedia.com.

Aston Martin unifies the marque’s exhilarating Formula 1® racing pedigree and the supercar of SUVs with unique DBX707 AMR24

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New and exclusive DBX707 AMR24 is a celebration of Aston Martin’s Aramco Formula 1® Team and their involvement at the pinnacle of motorsport Exclusive DBX707 AMR24 Edition gets the same racing identity as the AMR24 F1® car and the Official Medical Car of Formula 1® Additional highlights are available to amplify the racing look even further to reflect the brand’s racing pedigree 03 July 2024, Gaydon, UK: Aston Martin is once again celebrating the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team with the release of an exclusive AMR24 Edition for the world’s most powerful ultra-luxury SUV: the DBX707. Named after the brand’s Formula 1® challenger, the AMR24 Edition is a DBX707 that shares a racing identity with both the AMR24 F1® car and the Official Medical Car of Formula 1®. The AMR24 F1® car is a culmination of countless hours of work and uncompromising craft, built on the strengths of its predecessor and with the learnings from Aston Martin Aramco’s most successful season to date. The first car to be designed and built at the state-of-the-art AMR Technology Campus at Silverstone, the 2024 challenger is a strong evolution, designed to provide the perfect platform for in season development throughout the relentless pursuit of progress. In celebration of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1® on-track presence, the DBX707 AMR24 Edition raises the intensity and road presence even further for the brand’s critically acclaimed ultra-luxury, performance SUV. A curation of unique colour and trim features creates a DBX707 that unifies the exhilarating world of F1® with the world’s most dynamic and powerful luxury SUV, delivering truly dynamic, racing look. The AMR24 Edition offers exclusive content to both the interior and exterior of the DBX707: A choice of Podium Green, Onyx Black or Neutron White paint, complimented by Aston Martin Racing Green or AMR Lime brake calipers and paired with the 23” Fortis wheel in either satin or gloss black, as well as an exclusive AMR24 engine plaque. With the addition of either Lime Green or Trophy Silver accents to the sculptured in either gloss black or carbon, reminiscent of those on both AMR24 F1® car and the Official Medical Car of Formula 1®, the F1® connection between the road car and those on the track is underlined. Inside the AMR24 Edition, the Inspire Sport trim is available in a choice of two colourways, enhancing the overhauled cabin even further: Onyx black (Monotone) with a striking Lime stitch and piping, or Onyx Black / Eifel Green Duotone with a lime contrast stitch. Finer details can be specified with extended carbon fibre and dark chrome jewellery or titanium mesh complimented by satin chrome. The Aston Martin logo is also applied in foil to the dash panel and AMR24 is etched into the door sills, leaving occupants in no doubt of the Aston Martin racing bloodline. This identification is also supported by the application of a unique, lime hand-stitched saddle strap to the wireless charging station. The intensity inside the DBX707 AMR24 matches the exterior with a new sound system developed with Aston Martin’s audio partner, Bowers & Wilkins. Acoustically engineered to the DBX707’s interior volume and shape, this exceptional system uses technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins acclaimed world-class loudspeakers. The Aston Martin DBX707’s unique blend of immense performance, exceptional dynamics, unmatched style and true luxury saw it rapidly ascend to the pinnacle of the sector as the true Supercar of SUVs. The highlights are the 707PS/900Nm 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 and 9-speed ‘wet clutch’ automatic gearbox. Mated to a sophisticated all-wheel drive system capable of sending up to 100% of the torque to the rear axle on demand, the DBX707 AMR24 can launch from 0-60mph in 3.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 193mph. As such DBX707 is now the marque’s single powertrain in the British ultra-luxury performance brand’s SUV portfolio. Comprehensive upgrades to the interior, announced earlier this year, are central to the new DBX707 with the adoption of Aston Martin’s state-of-the-art in-house developed infotainment system and a striking new cabin architecture. The addition of the AMR24 Edition provides a true racing look underlining the DBX707’s driver-focussed credentials. Marco Mattiacci, Aston Martin’s Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer said: “Now with a technically advanced interior to match its class leading performance, the DBX707 AMR24 Edition is a stand-out ultra-luxury SUV with incredible road presence. Aston Martin are competing at the pinnacle of world motorsport, which represents a key pillar in our brand and product strategy for our road cars, and it’s a real pleasure to offer this special edition in celebration of the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1® Team.” The DBX707 AMR24 Edition is now available for customers to order. The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team will continue its fight for Formula 1® success at the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS BRITISH GRAND PRIX 2024 this weekend.

Mazda MX-5 crowned ‘Convertible of the Year’ at the 2024 Auto Express New Car Awards

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The 2024 Mazda MX-5 picks up ‘Convertible of the Year’ at Auto Express New Car Awards. With an unchanged engine line-up across Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura model grades. Updated features include a new Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential for 2.0-litre models. The Mazda MX-5 has been named ‘Convertible of the Year’ in this year’s Auto Express New Car Awards. Celebrating 35 years since its debut at the 1989 Chicago Motor Show, the latest recognition for the 2024 model adds to the extensive global awards tally for Mazda’s iconic sports car. “The MX-5’s ability to bring you to the motoring world shows no signs of slowing down, with a revised 2024 model introducing more tech to the sharp-handling sports car,” said Auto Express Editor Paul Barker. Continuing, “at a time when cars grow ever-larger, the MX-5’s sense of fun means that it’s a refreshing breath of fresh air – whether the roof is up or down.” The eight-model range features four Roadster and four RF models with a choice of Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura trim grades. Prime-Line cars are powered by the 132ps 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G engine, while Exclusive-Line can be chosen with either the 1.5-litre or the 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine. The range-topping Homura is exclusively matched to the 184ps unit. Prices for the 2024 Mazda MX-5 range start at £28,015 for the 1.5-litre Prime-Line Roadster. As before 2.0-litre cars feature a front strut brace, limited slip differential and Bilstein dampers as standard. The 2024 MX-5 features a new Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential – a cam mechanism has been added to the conical clutch, which is lightweight, compact and highly durable. The cam angle is set differently for the deceleration and acceleration side, thereby achieving optimal limiting force of slip during both actions. Strengthening the slip limiting force when the unloaded rear wheel is lightened during cornering enhances stability, moreover tuning the slip limiting force and optimising the set up for the MX-5’s engine, suspension and tyre characteristics ensures the purity of handling balance the MX-5 is famed for. In addition, the 2024 model features upgrades to the cabin of the MX-5, as inside there’s a new larger central 8.8-inch touch-screen multimedia display and an updated instrument panel. The larger central screen allows for clearer navigation mapping, while the more advanced MZ Connect system helps user functionality, additionally USB-C ports have been introduced. However, as you would expect, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 retains the same driver focused cabin and driving position, while the range-topping Homura grade now features Recaro seats trimmed in leather and Alcantara. For more than three decades and across four generations, the Mazda MX-5 has always been the benchmark pure lightweight sports car with driver engagement at the centre of its appeal. This Jinba Ittai philosophy – of driver and machine working in perfect harmony – is at the heart of every Mazda, none more so than the Mazda MX-5. The 2024 Mazda MX-5 continues to deliver pure open-top driving pleasure while retaining its core values of agility, lightweight and finely balanced handling. On Exclusive-Line and Homura models, the new Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) track driving mode avoids intervention until a later parameter to deliver a more dynamic, yet secure, drive experience with first-time track drivers in mind. Continuing the MX-5’s fine-tuning, the response of the accelerator has been improved to deliver a more accurate throttle application, while the electric power steering has been adjusted and steering rack friction reduced to deliver an even more natural and fluid response. The aim was to further enhance the sense of oneness with the car and connection with the road. Since the first-generation Mazda MX-5 was revealed at the 1989 Chicago Motor Show over 1.2 million MX-5s have been produced at Mazda’s Ujina plant in Hiroshima. With over 135,000 of these being sold in the UK, the place the MX-5 holds in the hearts of UK sports car fans is clear. Commenting on the award recognition from Auto Express, Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director at Mazda Motors UK, said: “when it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has established itself as a benchmark sports car, and with the 2024 Mazda MX-5 we continue to offer one of the most exciting and satisfying to drive cars money can buy, so it’s great the latest model has been recognised by Auto Express in this year’s New Car Awards”. Adding, “The MX-5 is a sports car that has resonated with enthusiastic British drivers ever since its debut 35 years ago and remains true to the original principle of being an affordable, lightweight and above all fun-to-drive roadster, something that stands out even more in a marketplace where fewer and fewer true affordable driver’s cars are being launched”.

New MG3 Hybrid+ lands major award

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New MG supermini wins at Auto Express New Car Awards Outstanding value impresses judges Four Highly Commended acknowledgements for MG Only a couple of months after arriving in UK showrooms, MG’s all-new hybrid supermini has secured its first major award from Auto Express. The MG3 Hybrid+ was crowned Affordable Hybrid of the Year in London last night. Auto Express Editor Paul Barker said:“The new MG3 Hybrid+ packs a huge amount of punch for such a compact footprint, whether we’re talking about efficiency, price, performance or ride and refinement. It’s incredibly good value when you look at what you get for the money and is one of the best and most recommendable cars we’ve driven all year.” The new MG3 Hybrid+ also secured a Highly Commended rating in the highly-competitive Supermini of the Year category. David Allison, Head of Product and Planning for MG Motor UK commented:“MG always strives to offer customers affordable cars, however it is equally pleasing to hear that the performance and efficiency of the advanced hybrid engine and the overall refinement of the MG3 impressed the Auto Express team. It is an excellent start for our all-new supermini.” The MG4 EV continues to impress both motoring experts and customers, there were two Highly Commended results for the hatchback in the Small Company Car of the Year and Affordable Electric Car Year awards. To date the MG4 has won over 30 major awards for the UK motoring press. The dramatic MG Cyberster, the world’s first two seat EV convertible to go into production and which will feature prominently at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, was also Highly Commended in the Convertible of the Year section. The Auto Express New Car Awards highlight the best in the business across 25 categories, as well as our overall Car of the Year. Auto Express prioritises the things that are important to car buyers, picking out the most impressive cars available over the entire automotive landscape, helping people choose the right car for them, whatever their budget or requirements. The SE and Trophy MG3 Hybrid+ models underline MG’s clear commitment to offering drivers exceptional value, with state-of-the-art hybrid technology available for a comparable price or less than many petrol superminis presently on sale in the UK. The MG Hybrid+ SE starts from £18,495 OTR with the even more generously equipped Trophy model available from £20,495 OTR. MG also offers a 7-year/80,000-mile warranty. About MGEstablished in 1924, MG Motor boasts a storied legacy that spans a century. Our roots are deeply anchored in our maiden venture, the MG 14/28 Super Sports car, a masterpiece crafted by the iconic Cecil Kimber. Steeped in innovation and fuelled by a commitment to the future, our focus has shifted electrifyingly towards envisioning sustainable and accessible mobility for all. Today, our values are reflected in the MG4 EV, an award-winning hatchback which underlines our commitment to delivering forward-thinking, technologically advanced and exhilarating electric vehicles. MG Motor’s dedication is simple yet profound: democratising mobility. Our diverse lineup, featuring petrol, electric, and hybrid vehicles, encompasses versatile hatchbacks, functional station wagons, and spacious SUVs, all brimming with cutting-edge technology. Every MG vehicle is a testament to world-class design and is reinforced by our generous 7-year/80,000-miles manufacturer’s warranty. Discover more about MG Motor, our range, and our expansive sales network by visiting our website at https://www.mg.co.uk/ For a detailed look into our vehicles, high-resolution imagery, and comprehensive specifications, please explore https://www.mg.co.uk/media-centre MG Press OfficeT: +44 (0)3301 756940E: pr@mg.co.ukwww.mg.co.uk

Citroen e-C3 scoops the big prize in 2024 Auto Express New Car Awards

Industry News

Citroen’s all-new electric e-C3 has grabbed the top prize at the 2024 Auto Express New Car Awards as one of a hat-trick of trophies for the impressive new supermini. Acknowledged as one of the most prestigious customer-focused awards in the car industry, the annual Auto Express Awards recognise cars judged to offer the best all-round package for consumers, taking in everything from price and quality to running costs, driving appeal and practicality. “2024 was one of the most competitive years for the New Car Awards, which makes the fact that the new Citroen C3 scooped two category wins on the way to the overall win an even more outstanding achievement,” said Auto Express editor Paul Barker. “Citroen’s Advanced Comfort tech, applied to its suspension and the seats inside a spacious cabin, give the C3 plenty of appeal on its own. However it’s the prospect of a fully electric version, priced from less than £22,000, that cements its place at the top of a very impressive list of shortlisted cars.” The Auto Express New Car Awards highlight the ‘best in the business’ across 25 categories, as well as our overall, much-sought Car of the Year. Auto Express prioritises aspects that are important to car buyers, picking out the most impressive cars available over the entire automotive landscape, helping people choose the right car for them regardless of budgets and requirements. “It’s been a really tricky but enjoyable task to pick out the top cars in each of our 25 awards categories, guiding consumers towards the models that are the best places to put their own money,” continued Barker. “Plus we’ve also chosen two cars that are very worthy of Highly Commended status in each category to give buyers plenty of choice of great cars, whatever they are looking for.” Hyundai collected the most trophies with four across its i10, Kona, Tucson and Ioniq 5 N models, while the new Skoda Octavia, Superb Estate and Kodiaq also triumphed in their sectors. Ford enjoyed a clean sweep of the commercial vehicle categories, winning the Van of the Year Award for the Transit Courier, while the Ranger won Pick-Up of the Year and e-Transit Custom was awarded Electric Van of the Year. For an in-depth look at all the winners, head for www.autoexpress.co.uk/new-car-awards-2024 or contact Tim.Gearey@carwow.co.uk / 07712 557867 – More – Category Winner City Car of the Year Hyundai i10 Supermini of the Year Citroen C3 Family Car of the Year Skoda Octavia Estate Car of the Year Skoda Superb Small Company Car of the Year Hyundai Kona Mid-size Company Car of the Year Tesla Model 3 Large Company Car of the Year Kia EV9 Small SUV of the Year Dacia Duster Mid-size SUV of the Year Hyundai Tucson Large SUV of the Year Skoda Kodiaq Small Premium SUV of the Year MINI Countryman Mid-size Premium SUV of the Year Lexus NX Large Premium SUV of the Year Porsche Cayenne Luxury Car of the Year BMW 7 Series Hot Hatch of the Year Honda Civic Type R Coupé of the Year Maserati GranTurismo Convertible of the Year Mazda MX-5 Performance Car of the Year Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Affordable Electric Car of the Year Citroen e-C3 Premium Electric Car of the Year Porsche Taycan Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year MG3 Premium Hybrid Car of the Year BMW 530e Pick-up of the Year Ford Ranger Electric Van of the Year Ford e-Transit Custom Van of the Year Ford Transit Courier Car of the Year Citroen e-C3 About Auto ExpressAuto Express is the definitive source for automotive news and reviews. Since 1988 we have been the people’s advocate for all things automotive. Today, our journalists continue to go above and beyond, reviewing over 1,000 models every year. From world exclusives to expert insights, we help you save time and money while delivering great-value car content in the process! When we’re not putting the latest cars through their paces, we’re fighting for you and the UK’s other 33 million drivers. We campaign on motoring issues and champion fairer, more affordable driving policies. With almost 40 years of independent and honest car reviews, it’s no surprise that drivers always come to us for savvy answers!

Ineos postpones electric off-road vehicle indefinitely

Industry News

The carmaker told British Autocar that there are two reasons for the postponement of the Fusilier market launch: the hesitant acceptance of EVs among consumers and uncertainty in the industry regarding customs duties, timetables and taxes. Ineos Automotive presented the electrically powered off-road vehicle at the end of February. It was to launch two drive options – a fully electric one and with a petrol range-extender. Ineos Automotive did not yet provide performance data for the two drive options at the February launch. Details of the drive system and the timetable for the market launch were originally to be confirmed in autumn 2024. Now, things are different. “Charging infrastructure for EVs in most markets continues to grow and consumer confidence will match that, but for the industry to meet net-zero targets there needs to be long-term clarity from policy makers and a number of technology options available considering factors like raw materials, infrastructure and affordability,” the carmaker told Autocar. And then there is legislation, according to which the Ineos may not be able to sell its range-extended version in Europe or the UK after 2035. The Ineos Fusilier was to be developed in collaboration with automotive supplier Magna and later manufactured by the Austrians. The first two models, the Grenadier positioned above the Fusilier and the Quartermaster pickup, were already developed in collaboration with Magna – although these were still combustion engines. autocar.co.uk, bloomberg.com