Category: News & Updates

Renault and Ford Team Up to Build Two New Affordable Electric Cars for Europe
Renault Group and Ford have announced a major new partnership that will reshape the electric car market in Europe. The two brands will work together on a pair of affordable Ford-branded electric cars, both using Renault’s Ampere platform. Production will take place in northern France, with the first model planned for early 2028.

This is one of the most significant alliances we’ve seen in Europe’s EV market for years. It brings together Renault’s fast-growing electric know-how with Ford’s design strengths and driving feel. For buyers, it should mean better value, more choice and genuinely competitive electric cars that don’t cost the earth.

What the partnership means

The agreement covers two main areas:

Two new Ford electric cars built by Renault

Ford will design the vehicles, but underneath they will use Renault’s Ampere platform. This is the same EV architecture helping Renault roll out more efficient, lower-cost electric models. The cars will be developed jointly, built by Renault in France and given a full Ford identity in terms of handling, tech and interior feel.

The first car is expected to reach European showrooms in early 2028 and marks the start of a fresh product push for Ford in the region.

Could this mean the return of the Fiesta?

Ford hasn’t confirmed what the two new electric models will be, but the timing has already sparked plenty of speculation. With the Fiesta bowing out in 2023 and leaving a huge gap in Ford’s small-car range, many buyers are wondering whether this partnership could pave the way for an electric revival of one of Britain’s best-loved cars.

An affordable EV built on Renault’s Ampere platform could be the perfect foundation for a modern, compact Ford. Nothing is announced yet, but if the brand wants to reconnect with the millions of drivers who grew up with a Fiesta, this partnership might be the moment to do it.

Planned collaboration on vans

Alongside the passenger cars, Renault and Ford have signed a Letter of Intent to explore a shared approach to selected light commercial vehicles. If it goes ahead, both brands could co-develop and manufacture certain vans for the European market. Given how strong both companies are in this segment, this could become a big deal for fleets and small businesses looking to go electric.

Why this matters

Europe’s EV market is becoming more competitive by the week. Manufacturers are under pressure to cut costs, reduce complexity and speed up development. This partnership gives both companies what they need:
- Renault gains extra scale for its Ampere platform and its ElectriCity production hub in northern France.
- Ford gains access to proven EV underpinnings while focusing on its strengths in design, driving character and customer experience.
Both CEOs were clear that this alliance is about staying competitive in a fast-shifting industry. Renault’s François Provost described Ford as “an iconic car manufacturer”, while Ford’s Jim Farley said combining forces would help them build “fun, capable, and distinctly Ford” electric cars.

What buyers should expect

While details about the two electric cars are still under wraps, a few things are already clear:
- Expect affordable pricing, as both brands want these models to hit the mass market.
- The cars will carry Ford’s design language and driving feel, not a rebadged Renault.
- The Ampere platform should allow for good efficiency, competitive range and fast-charging capability.
- Production in France helps reduce supply chain pressures and means shorter transport distances for European customers.
If this partnership delivers on its aims, these two EVs could become important alternatives to the growing number of Chinese-built electric cars arriving in Europe.

A smarter way of working

What stands out about this deal is how open both companies are to pooling resources. Legacy manufacturers are often slow to collaborate, but Renault and Ford clearly see value in teaming up where it makes sense. It also shows how flexible modern EV platforms have become, letting completely different brands create their own identity on top of shared foundations.

This is just the starting point. If the two passenger cars are successful, and if the van collaboration moves forward, we could see a much wider Renault–Ford partnership in the future.

Final thoughts

For European buyers, this is promising news. More choice, better value and the chance to buy a Ford EV built using one of the most competitive electric platforms on the continent.

As soon as more details surface on the new models, I’ll cover them here on Ben Talks Auto. If Ford gets the pricing and design right, these cars could become some of the most important electric models of the late 2020s.
09/12/2025
Be Among the First to Drive the Polestar 5… in Gran Turismo 7
Polestar is giving UK drivers an early chance to experience the new Polestar 5, but not on the road. It’s arriving first in Gran Turismo 7. From December to early February, Gran Turismo simulators will land in selected Polestar Spaces across the country. Anyone can drop in, set a lap time and try to climb a nationwide leaderboard.

The quickest drivers from each Space will go through to a live final at Polestar Battersea in February. The winner gets an all-expenses paid trip to Sweden and a road trip in the new Polestar 5.

Where you can take part
- Polestar Sheffield: 11 Dec 2025 to 7 Jan 2026
- Polestar Cribbs Causeway: 11 Dec 2025 to 7 Jan 2026
- Polestar Solihull: 9 Jan to 3 Feb 2026
- Polestar Battersea: 8 Jan to 3 Feb 2026
No booking needed. Just turn up and drive.

Built to feel like the real Polestar 5

Polestar and Polyphony Digital worked closely to model the Polestar 5 with as much accuracy as possible. Professional racer Igor Fraga tested prototype cars in Sweden and helped fine-tune the virtual handling at Brands Hatch. The aim was to make the digital Polestar 5 behave like the one launching next year.

The grand final

Fastest drivers from each Space will be invited to a live showdown in London. The overall UK Champion 2026 wins a holiday to Sweden for up to four people, including time behind the wheel of the real Polestar 5.

More details will follow in January.

If you can’t visit a Polestar Space, you can join the action on Gran Turismo 7. A worldwide time trial on the virtual Brands Hatch circuit is open to all players. The winner receives a trip to Japan for the 2025 GT World Series World Finals.

I’ll admit I’m hopeless at computer games, but this has still tempted me. It sounds like a great bit of fun and the prize is incredible. A road trip across Sweden in the new Polestar 5 is something I’d love to experience. I might have to take a trip up to Battersea and give it a go. If you beat my lap time, feel free to brag.
08/12/2025
Ford BlueCruise Expands Rollout on Puma, Kuga and Ranger PHEV

Ford is widening access to its hands-free driving tech, confirming that BlueCruise will soon be available on four more models across Europe, including key UK favourites. From spring 2026, buyers of the Ford Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga and Ranger Plug-In Hybrid will be able to specify the system when choosing the Driver Assistance Pack.

This marks the biggest step yet in Ford’s push to make hands-free motoring more mainstream. BlueCruise was the first hands-off, eyes-on system to be approved for use in Europe back in 2023, starting with Great Britain. Since then, it has expanded to 16 markets and now covers more than 135,000 km of approved motorways known as Blue Zones.

What UK drivers can expect

BlueCruise allows hands-free driving on approved motorways, as long as the car can detect clear lane markings and the driver continues to look at the road. A driver-facing camera monitors head position and eye gaze, even when wearing sunglasses, to make sure attention stays on the motorway ahead.

The system controls speed, braking, steering and lane positioning, taking a lot of strain out of long motorway runs. Think of it as an extension of Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, with the added ability to let go of the wheel when conditions are right.

For UK buyers, the big news is availability on high-demand models. The Ford Puma is consistently one of Britain’s best-selling cars, and the new electric Puma Gen-E is expected to follow suit. Adding BlueCruise to these cars makes the technology far more accessible than before, when it was limited to the Mustang Mach-E.

The Kuga Hybrid and Kuga Plug-In Hybrid will also benefit, giving family buyers the option of hands-free motorway driving. For business users, the Ranger Plug-In Hybrid gaining BlueCruise could make long-distance commercial travel less tiring.

A global roll-out with real-world mileage behind it

Ford says more than one million BlueCruise-equipped vehicles are already on the road around the world, covering over 888 million kilometres of hands-free driving so far. That real-world mileage helps reinforce confidence as the tech expands into more markets and models.

With Blue Zones now stretching across much of Europe, Ford even quotes a hands-free journey example from Stockholm to Rome. While UK drivers are unlikely to attempt that route, it helps show how widespread the infrastructure has become.

When can you get it?

BlueCruise for Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga and Ranger PHEV will be available from spring 2026 on new model year vehicles fitted with the Driver Assistance Pack. Ford will confirm subscription options and pricing closer to launch.

UK Blue Zones remain limited to motorways in Great Britain, with Northern Ireland not currently approved. But for most UK drivers, this expansion still means far greater access to the technology.

Want to know more?

You can read Ford’s overview of BlueCruise technology here:
https://www.ford.co.uk/technology/driving-assistance/ford-bluecruise

And if you’re researching the Puma in more depth, you can check out all the details, along with lease deals: https://www.rivervale.co.uk/car/leasing/ford/puma

04/12/2025
Toyota Land Cruiser crowned Utility and 4×4 of the Year in Scotland

The new Toyota Land Cruiser has taken home the Utility and 4×4 title at the Scottish Car of the Year Awards, with judges calling it the “gold standard” for go-anywhere SUVs. It is a strong win for a model that already has a loyal following around the world.

Presented at a ceremony in Edinburgh, the award highlights what has always made the Land Cruiser special. Strength, reliability and an ability to handle serious off road terrain with ease. This latest version keeps that character while adding smarter tech and a more refined drive.

Why the judges loved it

Ally Ballingall, President of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, said the Land Cruiser stood out for its toughness and capable four wheel drive system. Judges praised its build quality, dependable engineering and the way it tackles tough conditions. They also pointed to its spacious and practical cabin which works just as well for everyday use.

Back to its roots, with a modern twist

Toyota introduced the latest generation Land Cruiser in late 2024. The design leans into its heritage and the engineering focuses on confidence on every surface. Built on the GA F body on frame platform, it delivers the strength and off road ability the nameplate is known for. After more than seventy years, the Land Cruiser remains a vehicle designed to take you anywhere and bring you back again.

New electrified power for 2026

For the 2026 model year, the Land Cruiser gains a new electrified 2.8D 48V powertrain that aims to deliver a smoother and more responsive drive. It should also make the stop start system quieter and more natural in daily traffic. Customer deliveries begin in March 2026 and you can read more about the model’s electrified updates here: Toyota Land Cruiser Electrified for 2026

A proper SUV for people who need one

In a market full of soft roader SUVs, the Land Cruiser still feels authentic. It remains a serious tool for towing, exploring and long distance travel. This award only reinforces its position as one of the most capable and dependable utility vehicles you can buy.

03/12/2025
Toyota partners with British Gas to expand smart EV charging across the UK
Toyota is stepping up its electrification plans with a new smart-charging ecosystem rolling out across the UK and wider Europe from 2026. The move will give Toyota and Lexus drivers access to cheaper, greener and more convenient charging at home and on the road.

What’s happening?

Toyota Motor Europe has signed new partnerships with energy providers across Europe, including a major link-up with British Gas in the UK. The aim is simple. Make charging easier and more efficient, and help drivers cut their energy bills.

These partnerships sit at the heart of Toyota’s push towards smarter, cleaner mobility. They bring together Toyota’s vehicle know-how with the energy sector’s expertise in flexible grids, renewable power and digital energy services.

Cheaper, smarter charging

The first big change arrives in 2026 with a new Demand Side Response (DSR) service. UK drivers will be able to charge their Toyota or Lexus plug-in hybrid or fully electric car at the best possible time.

Key benefits include:
- Lower bills. Charging automatically shifts to cheaper off-peak hours.
- Convenience. Drivers can set schedules and manage charging through mobile apps.
- Greener energy. Cars can charge when renewable power is most available.
- Rewards. Customers can get incentives for helping balance the electricity grid.
Supporting the wider energy network

As more drivers switch to electric, the grid needs smarter ways to manage demand. Toyota’s new system helps balance peaks and troughs, reduces the need for fossil-fuel backup power and supports the growth of wind and solar.

This isn’t just about individual savings. It helps the UK transition to cleaner energy without huge upgrades to the grid.

What comes next?

Toyota plans to expand these energy partnerships into more European markets. The next big leap will be Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. Once rolled out, EVs will be able to send power back to the grid when it’s needed most.

This could turn electric cars into mobile energy assets that save drivers money and help stabilise the electricity network.

Toyota’s view

Leon Van Der Merwe, Vice President of Circular Economy and Energy Business at Toyota Motor Europe, said the programme was a major step forward.

He explained that smart, green charging will be key to Toyota’s long-term goal of cleaner mobility across Europe and will help create a closer link between transport and energy systems.
28/11/2025
Fiat updates the Grande Panda: new Pop trim added to the electric line up

Fiat has confirmed updates to the Grande Panda range for 2026. A new Pop trim now joins the fully electric line up. It replaces the previous (RED) edition. The hybrid and electric models now share the same structure with Pop, Icon and La Prima available across both.

What the new Pop trim offers

The Pop trim keeps several design details from the outgoing (RED) version. You get 16 inch white steel wheels and PixLED lighting front and rear. Inside, there are two tone seats with Panda lettering and a 10.25 inch touchscreen.

The standard equipment list is generous for a city car. Features include mirror screen connectivity, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, rear parking sensors, a 60-40 split rear seat and an upper dashboard glovebox. It is simple, useful and fits the Panda style well.

(RED) badging returns in a new way

Fiat is also marking four years of its partnership with (RED). Any Grande Panda ordered in the red colourway will now include two (RED) badges on the B pillars. It is a small feature, but it highlights Fiat’s ongoing support for global health causes.

Pricing and the Fiat E Grant

The fully electric Pop starts at £20,995 on the road. With the Fiat E Grant, buyers get a £1500 reduction, which brings the entry point under twenty thousand pounds. It makes the Grande Panda one of the most accessible electric city cars in the UK.

The Icon is £21,995 and the La Prima is £24,035. All qualify for the same £1500 saving. These figures also mean the Grande Panda sits in a price band that often works well for people exploring monthly finance or leasing options, as the lower list price can help keep payments manageable.

When it arrives

The Grande Panda is expected to reach the UK in early 2026. With prices dropping below twenty thousand pounds, it lands in a strong position for buyers looking for a low cost electric city car.

27/11/2025
The MINI Paul Smith Edition. A British icon with a playful twist.
The MINI Paul Smith Edition has arrived and it feels like a perfect celebration of two icons of British design. MINI has teamed up once again with Sir Paul Smith to create a car filled with charm, colour and personality. If you’re searching for the new Paul Smith Mini, curious about the MINI Electric Paul Smith, or you love the idea of a modern MINI with a designer touch, this is one worth knowing about.

I’ve added some images and a short clip of Paul Smith walking through the design touches. It really shows how much of his world has made it into this new edition.

A partnership with proper history

MINI and Paul Smith have been working together on and off for almost 30 years. The first collaboration landed in 1998 with a classic Mini finished in a special shade of blue. A year later, Paul Smith went all in and created a one off Mini covered in 86 colourful stripes.

They reunited in 2021 for the MINI STRIP, a minimalist concept based on reducing the car to only the essentials. In 2022 they unveiled the MINI Recharged by Paul Smith, an electrified classic Mini based on one of the original 1998 Paul Smith cars.

So this new MINI Paul Smith Edition feels like a natural next step. It brings the designer’s famous style into the newest MINI family for both petrol and electric models.

Available across the MINI Cooper range

The MINI Paul Smith Edition will be available on:
- MINI Cooper 3 door
- MINI Cooper 5 door
- MINI Convertible
It will sit across both petrol and electric versions, although John Cooper Works models are not included.

This means there will be a Paul Smith MINI Electric, which is likely to be a strong draw for people who want character and zero emission driving in the same package.

A look built around the idea of British with a twist

Paul Smith is known for creating classic pieces with a playful edge. MINI is known for personality, fun and creativity. Put them together and you get a car that stands out without shouting.

The colour options set the tone:
- Statement Grey inspired by the 1959 Mini Austin Seven.
- Inspired White based on the classic Beige from the original Mini.
- Midnight Black Metallic from the current MINI line up.
All of them get special accents in Nottingham Green, a nod to Sir Paul’s hometown. You’ll see this shade on the mirror caps, grille outline, hub covers and one of the two roof designs. It gives each car a proper designer feel.

There are two roof choices:
- A Nottingham Green roof with Paul Smith’s Signature Stripe running along one side.
- A black striped roof with a mix of matte and gloss finishes.
Convertible models get a black soft top, keeping things simple and classic.

The car sits on 18 inch Night Flash wheels in black with a tinted steel finish. Even the MINI logo has been redesigned for this edition, shifting to a Black Blue colourway that fits the palette.

A cabin full of thoughtful touches

Inside the MINI Paul Smith Edition you get a mix of modern MINI design and unmistakeable Paul Smith details.
- Knitted dash and door materials.
- Paul Smith inspired patterns woven into the dashboard texture.
- Nightshade Blue sport seats in Vescin with soft knitted upper sections.
- Multicolour stitching on the steering wheel inspired by the Signature Stripe.
The central circular display gets three exclusive Paul Smith backgrounds in Personal Mode. When you open the door, a light projection on the ground says “Hello” in Paul Smith’s own handwriting. The sills carry his phrase “Every day is a new beginning”. Small, warm touches like this give the car a sense of welcome each time you get in.

There is even a hand drawn rabbit on the floor mats, created by Paul Smith himself. It brings a sense of humour to the interior, something both brands share.

A collaboration built on British craft and creativity

Both MINI and Paul Smith have always blended heritage with forward thinking design. This new edition continues that story. It celebrates British style without feeling old fashioned. It works on petrol and electric models, so whether you want a MINI Electric Paul Smith Edition or a 3 door petrol Cooper with a designer twist, the personality is the same.

The Paul Smith MINI collection

Alongside the car, Paul Smith is releasing a capsule range of bags inspired by design details from the new MINI Paul Smith Edition. MINI has also featured in Paul Smith’s clothing collections in the past, so fans of the brand will recognise the crossover.

Final thoughts

The new MINI Paul Smith Edition feels like one of those special collaborations that will become desirable very quickly. It has the charm of the classic Paul Smith Mini from the nineties, combined with the clean, modern look of the latest MINI Cooper and MINI Electric models.

It’s playful. It’s stylish. It’s distinctly British. If you’re into design led cars or you’ve always loved the idea of a Paul Smith Mini, this one is well worth a look.

If you want help finding or leasing a MINI Cooper or MINI Electric, including special editions, you can explore the latest car leasing deals at Rivervale.
25/11/2025
Vauxhall Vivaro named Used Commercial Vehicle of the Year 2025
If you are looking for a used van that can take a beating, carry real weight and keep running costs in check, the Vauxhall Vivaro is once again proving why it is one of the most trusted choices on the used market. The Vivaro has just been crowned Used Commercial Vehicle of the Year at the Car Dealer Used Car Awards 2025, a ceremony that highlights the strongest performers in the used market.

Why the Vivaro won

Industry judges, including Wheeler Dealers’ Mike Brewer, praised the Vivaro for the qualities buyers actually care about.
- Dependable day to day
- Practical for trade work and small businesses
- Low running costs
- Good resale value
- Plenty of choice on the used market
Mike Brewer said the Vivaro is a familiar sight on UK roads for a reason. It supports tradespeople, small businesses and fleet operators without making life complicated. Car Dealer’s editor-in-chief, James Baggott, said it delivers what buyers want without relying on hype. Solid praise for a van that often ends up on shopping lists for anyone hunting for used vans for sale in the UK.

Strong in the new and used markets

The Vivaro has been a key player in the medium van segment for years. It was the second best-selling van in the UK in 2023, and the fully electric Vivaro Electric led the UK electric van market for three years in a row. That strong record in the new market filters directly into used stock.

This means buyers have plenty of choice, from low-mileage nearly new diesels to older high-spec models at keen prices, plus a growing supply of used electric variants.

Powertrain options that suit every job

One of the reasons the Vivaro performs so well in the used market is the range of engines and body styles available.

Diesel options

Used examples are often found with 1.5 or 2.0 litre turbo diesel engines, producing 100PS, 120PS, 145PS or 180PS. These engines have a good reputation for efficiency and durability, which is essential for anyone relying on their van for business.

Electric Vivaro

If you are searching for a used electric van, the Vivaro Electric (previously called Vivaro-e) is one of the strongest options in the UK.
- Battery choices: 50kWh or 75kWh
- WLTP range: up to 143 or 205 miles
- Rapid charging: 0 to 80 percent in 30 minutes (50kWh) or 45 minutes (75kWh)
- Ideal for ULEZ and low emission zones
The electric version is smooth, quiet and can slash running costs for businesses that cover predictable routes each day.

Body styles

Shoppers will commonly find three formats when browsing used Vivaro listings.
• Panel Van
• Double Cab
• Platform Cab

Two body lengths were offered, giving buyers flexibility depending on payload, people and equipment.

What Vauxhall says

Vauxhall’s Managing Director, Steve Catlin, said the award reflects the van’s long-standing role as a hard-working partner for UK businesses. Its mix of capability, efficiency and modern tech continues to keep it in demand across both new and used markets.

Why used van buyers should care

If you are comparing used vans for sale in the UK, the Vivaro’s award win acts as useful confirmation of what many buyers already know. It offers:
• Strong reliability
• Good payload capability
• A wide choice of trims and engines
• Low operating costs
• A strong electric option
• Better availability than some rivals

It is also a van that dealers trust to sell, which is often a good sign for long-term ownership.

Should you consider a Vivaro as your next used van

Yes. If you need a medium van for trade work, deliveries, tools or multi-stop routes, the Vivaro ticks the important boxes. It is well suited to:
• Builders, electricians and plumbers
• Local delivery businesses
• Growing start-ups
• Fleets that need dependable workhorses
• Drivers looking to switch to a used electric van

The mix of value, durability and choice makes it one of the safest buys in the used commercial vehicle market.
25/11/2025
Renault 5 E Tech Electric Wins ‘EV of the Year’ at the Motor Trader Industry Awards 2025

Renault has done it again. The Renault 5 E Tech Electric has been crowned ‘EV of the Year’ at the Motor Trader Industry Awards 2025. It’s a huge moment for one of the most talked-about small EVs on the market, and I’m not surprised at all. The R5 has been my favourite city car since I first drove it. It’s stylish, light on its feet and has the right mix of charm and everyday usability.

This win comes on the back of strong competition from Europe and Asia. Even with the pressure of new rivals arriving every month, the Renault 5 still stands out. The judging panel praised its design, pricing and tech, calling it a breath of fresh air in the supermini EV segment. With battery choices of 40 kWh or 52 kWh and a range of up to 252 miles, it delivers the right amount of performance for daily driving without pushing the price out of reach.

Prices start from £21,495 on the road thanks to the UK Government Electric Car Grant. It’s not often you get this level of style and capability at that price point. Renault has also done well to balance retro cues with modern tech. The R5 feels familiar yet fresh, and the vibrant colour palette only adds to its appeal.

It’s worth remembering that this is the second year in a row Renault has impressed the Motor Trader judges. Last year the Scenic E Tech Electric took home the ‘New Car of the Year’ title. That momentum continues with the R5, which has quickly become one of the most desirable electric hatchbacks in the UK.

Ben Freakley and Rocio Artist reviewing the Renault 5 in Brighton

If you want to know what it’s like to live with, I’ve already done a full review after spending a week with the car.

The award feels well deserved. The R5 captures the original’s spirit and brings it into today’s world with confidence. It’s good to see a small EV winning big.

20/11/2025
Fiat 500e wins big at the Auto Express Used Car Awards 2025

Fiat has added another trophy to the shelf as the 500e takes home the City Car title at the Auto Express Used Car Awards 2025. It also picked up a commendation in the Electric Car category, which shows how well it continues to perform in a segment filled with strong choices.

There are so many capable small EVs on the market now, yet the 500e still stands out. It has character, charm and plenty of style. Even though the 500 has kept the same basic shape since the petrol model first launched, it still looks fresh and modern. Fiat’s most recent facelift sharpened the lines, added a touch more flair and helped the electric version feel right at home in today’s city car scene.

Auto Express combined its own road test results with real owner feedback from the Driver Power survey. The 500e came out on top thanks to its mix of iconic Italian design, easy electric performance and real-world value for money. You can already find low-mileage examples on the used market, making it an appealing entry point into EV ownership.

Paul Barker, editor of Auto Express, called it “a great value, chic and fashionable little city car” and said the win is fully deserved. Since launching in 2020, the 500e has collected awards across Europe and continues to be Fiat’s most decorated model.

The electric 500 carries its heritage with confidence. It offers up to 118hp, 0–62 mph in 9 seconds and two battery options, with the larger 42 kWh pack giving up to 199 miles of range. For short trips, commuting and tackling tight streets, it remains one of the easiest and most enjoyable small EVs to live with.

As someone who has always had a soft spot for the 500, I’m pleased to see it recognised once again. I look forward to spending more time with one soon and seeing how the latest models feel on the road.

19/11/2025