ERIC PLATFORD: 25 FEBRUARY 1883 – 20 NOVEMBER 1938 A brief overview of the life and career of Eric Platford, born 25 February 1883 Played a fundamental role in testing and developing early Rolls-Royce models Racing success strengthened Rolls-Royce’s status as ‘the best car in the world’ Aero-engine expertise made him a key figure in the first successful transatlantic flight Greatly respected by Royce, and the first holder of the official title of Chief Tester “Having played a role which was central and fundamental to the marque’s early successes, Eric Platford earned the right to be recognised amongst his better…

18% of Brits believe you cannot take an EV charger when moving home 17% think an EV can be manual 14% believe EVs cannot drive through water Younger generations are most likely to believe in EV myths, while older generations remain more sceptical Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director at BYD UK, debunks the most common EV myths and explains why education is so important during the transition to electric vehicles Almost one in five (18%) Brits believe that you cannot take an electric vehicle (EV) charger with you when moving house, according to new research by BYD UK. EVs…

Subaru UK has announced the development of its dealer network, with five new strategic retailer appointments across England and Wales. The appointments during Q1 2025 enhance the brand’s coverage in key regional areas, building on Subaru’s momentum of recent years, and reinforcing its commitment to future growth. The latest additions to the retailer network – which has built a reputation for sustained excellence and dedication over decades – will enable more customers than ever before to have easy access to Subaru’s personalised dealership experience. This strategically planned network development follows a successful 2024 for the brand, which saw Subaru pass…

Kia Corporation has entered into a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. to introduce next-generation ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) solutions for its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs) offerings. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding during Kia’s 2025 EV Day in Spain, marking a significant step toward redefining both the ‘In-Vehicle’ and ‘Out-of-Vehicle’ experience for PBV customers. The signing ceremony was attended by Sangdae Kim, Head of Kia’s PBV Division, and Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President of B2B Integrated Offering Center at Samsung Electronics. The collaboration aligns with Kia’s wider Platform Beyond Vehicle strategy, which seeks to expand the…

A study has found that used combustion engine models are on average £2,560 more expensive than equivalent electric models from the same manufacturer, a difference of 10%. CarGurus – a leading automotive marketplace in the U.K. to shop, buy, and sell used vehicles – analysed the average prices of electric vehicles (EVs) that offer equivalent fuel-powered models from the last four model years to determine which option provides the best value. The study examined second-hand vehicle listings from the U.K.’s top 30 manufacturersi, comparing those that offer standalone electric and comparable fuel-powered models. The brands with the greatest selection of…

The BMW Group is presenting its next leap forward in the field of electric drive technology – and in the process ushering in a new era of all-electric driving. At the Tech Days event in Landshut, the company has provided some initial insights into the development and production of high-voltage batteries and electric drive systems using the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology. Every fully electric Neue Klasse vehicle will enjoy the benefits. The first Neue Klasse model will go into series production later this year at Plant Debrecen in Hungary. Below is an overview of the technology highlights: The…

“Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made. It has been created in the image of our boldest and most audacious clients, with meticulous attention to detail. From the beginning of Black Badge Spectre’s journey, the clients who requested this extraordinary motor car dared us to share their fearless spirit. In response, our engineers combined data science, qualitative feedback, and their own deep knowledge of the brand’s alter ego to craft an intense and uncompromising character, and the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history. Reflecting the Black Badge character, our designers and…

ZF is equipping NIO’s flagship electric vehicle, the ET9, with its latest generation steer-by-wire system. The technology Group is supplying both the steering wheel actuator for steering and steering feel as well as the redundant steering gear actuator and associated software. The Smart Electric Executive Flagship model thus has no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Since the creation of its “Chassis Solutions” Division at the beginning of 2024, ZF now has a comprehensive portfolio of purely electronically controlled steering and braking systems and controlled damping systems. In combination with ZF’s own cubiX software, these technologies…

Renault Group and Geely Holding Group today jointly announced a framework agreement expanding their strategic cooperation in the production and sales of zero and low emission vehicles through Renault do Brasil, further strengthening their strategic partnership. Geely Holding would invest in Renault do Brasil to become a minority shareholder, enabling Geely Holding to gain access to localized production, sales and services resources. The venture remains subject to the entering of definitive agreements and prior approval of the relevant regulatory authorities. Through this cooperation, the two advanced production facilities of Renault Group’s Ayrton Senna Complex in São José dos Pinhais, Paraná,…

McLaren Automotive and its Racing Partner United Autosports embark upon their second season of FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) competition with a refreshed livery and driver line-up for the two 720S GT3 EVO cars as the partnership aims to build on a hugely competitive debut and celebrate the 30th anniversary of McLaren’s iconic victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. McLaren made its WEC debut in 2024 with the advent of the new LM GT3 class. The McLaren GT3 EVO cars demonstrated race-winning pace, claiming the championship’s first LM GT3 front-row lockout in qualifying for Bahrain and a podium…