Maserati has introduced a new special edition of its mid-size SUV. The Grecale Lumina Blu brings a fresh take on the Modena trim with a striking Night Interaction paint finish and bold yellow details that stand out straight away.
On the outside you get 21 inch Pegaso wheels, yellow brake calipers and a yellow Trident badge on the rear pillar. Matrix LED headlights and tinted rear windows finish off the look.
Inside, Maserati has gone for a light Ghiaccio leather interior with open pore burl wood and a sporty steel pedal box. It mixes traditional craftsmanship with modern tech to create a calm, premium space. Standard kit includes a panoramic roof, motion-sensor electric tailgate, heated and cooled 14-way front seats, a heated steering wheel and a 360 degree camera system.
Power comes from the familiar 2.0 litre mild hybrid engine with 330 hp, matched to an eight speed automatic and all wheel drive. It aims to offer smooth everyday performance with the efficiency benefits of hybrid assistance.
The Grecale Lumina Blu adds another stylish option to the brand’s SUV range and shows Maserati pushing further into special edition models that carry extra visual flair and comfort features. I am looking forward to seeing this in person as the combination of deep metallic blue and yellow accents should look great on the road.
Renault’s next generation electric van takes a big step forward
Renault has revealed the new Trafic Van E Tech Electric, the next generation of its medium electric van. This is not the first electric Trafic, but it is the first to sit on a dedicated all electric skateboard platform. It brings a big jump in range, charging speed and software, turning the Trafic into a far more capable EV for business users. It will arrive in late 2026.
The launch also comes at a time when the medium van market is more competitive than ever. The Ford Transit Custom continues to lead UK registrations, while brands like Maxus and newcomers like Farizon have pushed EV technology forward. I reviewed the Farizon SV earlier this year and this new Trafic feels very much aimed at meeting that new standard. Smart design, long range and proper digital features are now essential, not optional.
SMMT figures show the Renault Trafic sits sixth in UK sales this year with 9,905 registrations from January to October. So this new model has a real opportunity to strengthen Renault’s position in a busy segment.
Battery, range and charging
Renault will offer two battery options.
Long range NMC battery. Up to 450 km WLTP which is about 280 miles
Urban range LFP battery. Around 350 km WLTP which is about 217 miles
New 800V charging means a 15 to 80 percent top up takes around 20 minutes and adds up to 260 km which is about 162 miles.
A new 150 kW motor produces 345 Nm of torque. Renault says the van will offer a towing capacity of 2 tonnes and payload up to 1.25 tonnes once homologated.
These figures put the Trafic E Tech Electric among the longest range electric medium vans currently announced.
How it compares to its rivals
Ford E Transit Custom
Up to 337 km (about 209 miles) WLTP from a 64 kWh battery
Strong dealer network and familiar driving feel
The Trafic offers higher quoted range and much faster 800V charging, but Ford still has the stronger brand loyalty
Farizon SV
67 to 106 kWh batteries with ranges from roughly 188 to 247 miles WLTP
Some versions claim up to 342 miles in city conditions
I reviewed this earlier in the year and was impressed by the finish and value. The Renault counters with a more advanced software platform and stronger long range capability
Maxus eDeliver 7
Up to around 230 miles depending on version
Well equipped and affordable with good real world usability
The Trafic promises longer range and a far more modern digital cabin, while Maxus remains the value choice
Renault has not released pricing yet, so the true comparison will become clearer once costs are confirmed.
Design, space and practicality
The new skateboard layout shortens the front overhang and places the motor at the rear. Renault says this gives the van a turning circle of 10.3 metres which is as tight as a Clio. This should be a big help when working in towns and cities.
Two body lengths will be available.
L1 at 4.87 metres with 5.1 cubic metres of load space
L2 at 5.27 metres with 5.8 cubic metres of load space
Height stays below 1.90 metres so it fits into standard underground car parks. Wide side and rear doors allow easy loading of Euro pallets.
The cabin has been designed around real day to day use with plenty of storage including shelves, cubbies, large door bins and a secure area near the base of the windscreen made from 50 percent plant based fibres.
Software, tech and safety
This is Renault’s first commercial vehicle built on the new SDV software defined architecture from Ampere. All computing power is centralised, allowing smooth updates and feature upgrades over time.
The cabin features a 10 inch digital cluster and a 12 inch central screen running Android Automotive OS. Google Maps, Assistant and a full app library come built in. The route planner can account for vehicle size, load and charging needs.
Vehicle to Load and Vehicle to Grid features are included so tools, equipment or even a site office can be powered directly from the van.
Safety Coach and Safety Monitor track driving behaviour, offer coaching and display a live safety score. The My Renault app supports charge scheduling, preconditioning, remote lock checks and maintenance tracking.
Why this matters
The electric medium van segment is moving quickly and businesses now want longer range, fast charging and strong digital tools. Ford continues to dominate. Maxus delivers good value. Farizon has entered the market with a modern, ground up EV approach.
The new Trafic E Tech Electric looks ready to compete with all of them. Range up to 280 miles, ultra fast 800V charging, a modern design and a software heavy cabin make it a serious contender. If pricing lands in the right place, this could become one of the strongest all round electric vans available.
I will test the production model as soon as it becomes available. After spending time with the Farizon SV, I am keen to see how the new Trafic performs in the real world.
Mitsubishi is about to make a comeback. Five years after pulling out of the UK and wider European market, the brand has confirmed it will return in 2026. For anyone who grew up loving cars, the Lancer Evolution and 3000GT were just incredible and are still much loved today.
2015 Lancer Evolution Final Edition
I’ll be honest. I used to be a real fan of what Mitsubishi did well. The L200 was tough and dependable, the classic Shogun had real presence on the road and the Outlander PHEV changed the game for company car drivers when it arrived. It was one of the first plug-in SUVs that made sense for everyday use, and its low Benefit in Kind rates turned it into an absolute fleet favourite.
The problem was that things slowed down. For years the Shogun and L200 barely moved forward. They still did the job, but the market around them had moved on. Cars like the Eclipse Cross, ASX and Mirage arrived, and although they drove fine, none of them had the spark you expected from a brand that once built rally legends. Mitsubishi needed to evolve faster and it didn’t.
Then came 2020. Mitsubishi froze new model launches for Europe, profits dropped, emissions rules tightened and the brand stepped away with the final dealerships closing their doors in 2021. It was a shame, but it made sense at the time.
Since then, the UK has changed a lot. In the gap Mitsubishi left behind, we’ve seen a huge wave of new arrivals from China. MAXUS, BYD, XPENG, Chery, Omoda, Jaecoo, Geely and Changan have all launched. Soon we’ll see Zeekr, EXEED, Nio and Avatr join them. Buyers suddenly have more choice than ever.
So the big question is simple. Can Mitsubishi return and actually stand out in a market that looks nothing like it did in 2020?
The new Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
A New Mitsubishi, Built with an Old Alliance
Mitsubishi is part of the Renault Nissan Alliance, which is why a big part of its European relaunch will be based on shared models. It is already happening in Europe. The Colt is based on the Renault Clio. The ASX is based on the Captur. The larger Eclipse Cross EV is linked to the new Scenic. The Grandis is based on the Symbioz.
The only car that still feels fully Mitsubishi is the latest Outlander PHEV, which shares some tech with the Nissan X-Trail but still carries a strong link to the brand’s own engineering.
Right now, the UK line-up is not confirmed. Early hints suggest plug-in models like the Outlander and Eclipse Cross will lead the way, with the L200 likely to return too. Mitsubishi still has a big following among pickup buyers and off-road fans, so bringing back something capable would make sense – although the pickup truck market has slowed right down since the changes in taxation from HMRC.
International Motors, the company already responsible for GWM, Isuzu and Subaru in the UK, will handle distribution. They also kept Mitsubishi’s aftersales network alive, with more than 100 sites still operating. That gives the brand a running start. Dealership appointments are already underway. Sales are planned for summer 2026.
Why This Comeback Matters
Mitsubishi left a real gap. While its later models lacked some polish, the brand had a reputation for honest engineering. Strong 4WD systems, good towing ability, simple but usable cabins and pricing that made sense.
When you look at today’s market, there is room again for a brand that offers rugged models with proper real-world ability. A lot of SUVs today focus more on style than substance. Mitsubishi used to deliver both.
And, with the Alliance in place, it has access to modern platforms and tech that it simply didn’t have the budget to build alone.
If Mitsubishi can mix its old strengths with some fresh ideas and better refinement, it could absolutely carve out a space for itself again.
But Can It Compete?
This is the real test. The UK in 2026 will be one of the most crowded car markets in the world. Chinese brands are growing fast, Korean brands continue to impress, and even long-established names are fighting harder than ever.
Mitsubishi will have to deliver:
Strong pricing
Solid tech
Competitive plug-in and EV options
A proper hero model that reminds people what the brand stands for
Better quality than before
UK-friendly specs and trims
If it brings cars that look and feel like rebadged versions of Renaults without any real Mitsubishi character, it will struggle. But if the brand leans into its 4WD expertise, off-road heritage and plug-in know-how, it has every chance of fitting back into the UK.
A Brand Worth Rooting For
If you ask me, I would love to see Mitsubishi succeed again. The brand has history, reputation and a loyal following that never really went away. A lot of people still have fond memories of Shoguns on farms, Lancer Evolutions on posters, and Outlanders plugged in outside offices in 2015.
The UK car scene is always better when there is more variety, and Mitsubishi brings something different to the mix.
The comeback is happening. The dealers are coming. The range is being finalised. Now it’s down to the product.
If Mitsubishi brings the right cars, with the right spec and the right pricing, the brand could easily win people back. I’m rooting for it.
Toyota has announced a major update for one of its most iconic models. The Land Cruiser is heading into 2026 with its first electrified drivetrain, marking a new chapter for a vehicle known for toughness, reliability and proper off-road ability.
This is not a full hybrid. Instead, Toyota has paired the familiar 2.8 litre turbodiesel with a new 48V system that promises smoother, quieter and more responsive performance on the road and off it.
What Toyota has changed
The new Land Cruiser 2.8D 48V keeps the core of the model exactly as owners expect. You still get the diesel engine and the eight speed Direct Shift automatic gearbox, but this time supported by a compact electric motor generator, a 48V lithium ion battery and a DC converter.
The aim is simple. Deliver better everyday refinement without compromising what the Land Cruiser is built to do. Water wading depth remains at 700 mm, ground clearance is unchanged and the electrical components are mounted high and sealed to cope with harsh conditions.
Smoother starts. Better response. Easier off road.
The electric motor generator replaces the normal alternator and adds support when pulling away. It recovers energy when you lift off the throttle and uses that to help restart the engine or assist low speed acceleration.
The result is a more natural feel at low speeds. Stop start operation is quicker and quieter. Pulling away in traffic is smoother. Engine restarts on hills are more controlled thanks to brake pressure being held until the diesel is ready to deliver torque.
Off road, the electric assist helps the car creep over obstacles more calmly. Drivers can monitor what the system is doing through the multi information display which shows whether the powertrain is charging, operating in eco mode or providing extra shove.
Compact battery. Big gains.
The 48V battery is small and light at just 7.6 kg. When fully charged it can provide up to 12 kW of additional power and 65 Nm of torque at start off. Placement beneath the load floor helps maintain boot space and the cooling system draws fresh air from the front of the vehicle to keep the cells at the right temperature.
The whole system has also been engineered to deal with dust, heat and water which are all part of normal Land Cruiser life.
Single model. High spec.
For the UK, the 2026 Land Cruiser range is simple. One engine, one drivetrain and one trim level called Invincible. It comes with:
• Five seats • 20 inch alloy wheels • Roof rails • Opening panoramic roof • Leather interior • 12.3 inch multimedia touchscreen • Head up display • JBL 14 speaker audio • Multi Terrain Select • Multi Terrain Monitor • Rear diff lock • Toyota’s new Stabiliser Disconnect Mechanism • Toyota Safety Sense
Pricing starts at £80,740 on the road and customer deliveries begin in March 2026.
My take
This feels like a sensible move from Toyota. A full hybrid might have required a big redesign, so the 48V system gives the Land Cruiser a boost in refinement without interfering with the rugged setup that long term owners value.
It should make day to day driving more pleasant and slightly more efficient, while keeping all the traditional strengths intact.
For anyone wanting a big, dependable off roader that still feels like a proper Land Cruiser, this update keeps it relevant while staying true to what the model stands for.
A triumphant week celebrating Maserati’s homecoming
Maserati has returned home to Modena with a celebration that captured everything the Trident stands for: passion, performance, and Italian flair. The event, called Maserati Meccanica Lirica, marked the return of GranTurismo and GranCabrio production to the historic Viale Ciro Menotti plant, the true heart of the brand.
From 5 to 9 November 2025, Modena hosted a week of music, art, and automotive heritage. Maserati combined its mechanical excellence with the lyrical rhythm of Italian culture to create something unforgettable.
Where music met mechanics
The celebrations began with an exclusive night at the Teatro Comunale Modena Pavarotti-Freni. Maserati turned opera into an immersive automotive experience. The Maserati Meccanica Lirica concept brought together live music, art, and engineering, showing the harmony between performance and emotion that defines the brand.
The night reached its peak when the GranTurismo Meccanica Lirica One-Off appeared on stage. The Modena Philharmonic Orchestra performed Puccini’s Nessun Dorma as the car was revealed. Composer Dardust added a modern twist by mixing classical and electronic music. It was a perfect reflection of Maserati’s blend of tradition and innovation.
Craftsmanship and tradition reborn
The celebrations then moved to the Viale Ciro Menotti plant. Maserati officially reopened its GranTurismo and GranCabrio assembly line and welcomed guests inside. Visitors met the engineers and artisans who build every car by hand.
Two Meccanica Lirica One-Offs were on display, showing off the mix of Italian craftsmanship and modern design. Maserati used the event to reaffirm its deep commitment to Modena as the home of its creativity and production excellence.
A city transformed
Over the weekend, Modena turned into a living showcase for the brand. Streets and landmarks were dressed in the city’s yellow and blue colours. Sixty Maserati models, both classic and modern, joined a spectacular parade.
A 1959 GT Spyder 3500 led the vintage line-up, while the GranTurismo Folgore represented the brand’s future as its first fully electric grand tourer. The event drew huge crowds and plenty of smiles.
The parade ended at the Modena Autodromo, where guests took to the track for hot laps in the GT2 Stradale, MC20, and the new GranTurismo. The sound of engines filled the air once again, thanks to a tuned exhaust system created to highlight that distinctive Maserati note.
A cultural homecoming
To make the event even more special, Roberto Bolle, Italy’s most famous ballet star, performed his piece Waves. The performance, a duet with laser light, captured the spirit of the week by combining tradition with technology.
Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura curated the dining experiences, celebrating the shared passion for artistry and precision that connects Modena’s food culture and its most iconic carmaker.
The modern Maserati lineup
Maserati’s current range shows how far the brand has come. Alongside the GranTurismo and GranCabrio, the line-up features the Grecale SUV, the MC20 supercar, its open-top MC20 Cielo, and the new GT2 Stradale. Power options include V6 petrol engines and full-electric drivetrains, such as the GranTurismo Folgore and Grecale Folgore.
Each model continues Maserati’s mission to redefine Italian luxury for the electric age. More importantly, they prove that performance and sustainability can coexist beautifully.
The sound of Modena lives on
Maserati Meccanica Lirica was more than a celebration. It was a statement of intent. Maserati is staying true to its roots and reinforcing Modena as the heart of its engineering and design.
Through a mix of art, craftsmanship, and performance, the brand has reminded the world why the sound of a Maserati is unlike anything else. The Trident’s voice continues to echo across the globe; proud, powerful, and unmistakably Italian.
All images courtesy of Maserati S.p.A. / Stellantis Media.
The Renault Twingo is making a comeback, and this time it’s electric. Set to arrive in the UK in early 2027, the new Twingo E-Tech Electric promises to bring the charm and simplicity of the original 1990s icon into the electric era.
A quick look
Price: Expected from under £20,000
Power: 60 kW (82 bhp)
Range: Up to 163 miles (WLTP)
Battery: 27.5 kWh LFP unit
Charging: 6.6 kW AC (11 kW AC and 50 kW DC optional)
Top speed: 81 mph
Availability: Early 2027 (UK)
A small car with a big legacy
When the first Twingo launched back in 1992, it was something of a design revolution, small, friendly, and full of personality. Over 4 million were sold across 25 countries, and it quickly became a symbol of clever, affordable mobility.
Fast-forward 30 years and Renault wants to recapture that spirit for the electric age. The new E-Tech model is built around affordability, simplicity, and fun. Renault says it’s the first car in its “Leap 100” programme, developed in just 100 weeks, showing how quickly the brand is moving to bring EVs to everyone.
Designed for urban life
The Twingo E-Tech Electric is a five-door city car that looks cheerful and minimalistic, with clear nods to the original’s smiley face and curved lines. Inside, it’s neat and uncluttered, featuring a dual-screen layout with Google built-in and Apple CarPlay as standard.
At just 3.79 metres long, it’s easy to park and nimble to drive; yet still offers impressive space. The rear seats slide independently to boost boot capacity up to 360 litres, or over 1,000 litres with the seats folded, clever for such a compact car.
Electric power made simple
The 60 kW motor and 27.5 kWh LFP battery deliver up to 163 miles of range, making this a perfect everyday commuter. A 0–50 km/h (31 mph) sprint in 3.85 seconds keeps it lively in city traffic, and with One-Pedal driving on the higher Techno trim, it’s smooth and effortless to use around town.
Renault is also keeping running costs low, thanks to LFP battery tech that’s cheaper and longer-lasting. Charging is straightforward too; 4 hours 15 minutes on a home wallbox or 30 minutes for 10–80 percent on a fast charger.
Looking ahead
I’m really looking forward to seeing this one in the flesh. The new Twingo looks full of personality, feels practical for city life, and could be the perfect starter EV for many buyers.
The all-new Porsche Cayenne Electric is about to make its global debut, marking a major step in Porsche’s electrification journey. The luxury SUV that redefined Porsche’s lineup in 2002 is now entering its fully electric era.
When and Where to Watch
Porsche will reveal the Cayenne Electric during a digital world premiere on 19 November 2025 at 14:00 GMT.
Just a few days later, on 22–23 November, the Cayenne Electric will make its public debut at the Icons of Porsche Festival in Dubai, one of the brand’s biggest global events, attracting over 28,000 fans last year.
A New Chapter for Porsche’s Flagship SUV
The Cayenne has been a game-changer since its launch over two decades ago, blending sports car performance with everyday usability. Now, the Cayenne Electric takes that legacy into the EV age, promising:
Exceptional driving dynamics and long-distance comfort
Off-road capability worthy of the Cayenne name
Fast charging and strong efficiency from Porsche’s latest EV platform
A connected and digital interior to rival the Taycan
This new electric SUV will sit alongside Porsche’s existing combustion and plug-in hybrid Cayenne range, giving customers even more choice.
What to Expect
While Porsche hasn’t released full details yet, early teasers suggest bold design updates, new battery technology, and benchmark-setting performance figures. If the Taycan is anything to go by, expect instant torque, precise handling, and premium build quality throughout.
Toyota has officially revealed the ninth-generation Hilux, set to go into production in spring 2026, with UK sales starting that summer. The announcement marks a new chapter for one of the world’s most famous pick-ups, bringing electrification, advanced tech, and a tougher design while staying true to its roots.
As a long-time pickup fan, I’m genuinely looking forward to this one. I owned a 2018 Nissan Navara and haven’t driven a Hilux since around 2010, so I’m curious to see how far it’s come. Having tested the last three generations of the Ford Ranger, along with the MAXUS T60 Max and the all-electric MAXUS T90 & MAXUS eTerron 9, the Hilux’s move into hybrid and electric territory really catches my attention, especially the hydrogen-powered version planned for 2028.
What’s New for 2026
The new Hilux followToyota reveals the ninth-generation Hilux, arriving in 2026 with diesel, electric, and hydrogen powertrains. A new era for one of the world’s toughest pickups.s Toyota’s “multipath” approach, giving buyers a choice of powertrains:
A 2.8-litre diesel mild hybrid (48V) for strong towing and off-road ability
A fully electric Hilux BEV, offering around 150 miles of range
A hydrogen fuel cell Hilux, confirmed for 2028 production
All versions will use a Double Cab body, feature electric power steering, all-wheel drive, and a cabin inspired by the latest Land Cruiser with a large digital display and improved materials. Toyota says payload remains close to a tonne and towing capacity up to 3,500kg, depending on the version.
A Legend Evolved
Since the first Hilux launched back in 1968, it has built a reputation for being practically indestructible. From Arctic expeditions to Top Gear torture tests, it’s one of the few pickups left in the UK market as others have disappeared. Now, it’s entering a new era with electrification but still sticking to its rugged, body-on-frame construction.
Why It Matters
With pickups like the Amarok, Ranger, and T60 continuing to evolve, Toyota’s decision to electrify the Hilux keeps it firmly in the running for fleet and lifestyle buyers alike. The electric model, in particular, will appeal to businesses wanting zero-emission capability without compromising off-road toughness.
As someone who’s spent plenty of time around commercial vehicles and pickups, I can’t wait to see how it stacks up in real-world use, and I’ll definitely be trying to get behind the wheel when it lands in the UK.
The news of Quentin Willson’s passing has really saddened me this weekend. He was one of the people who sparked my interest in cars when I was growing up. I spent so many hours watching him on Top Gear and later on Fifth Gear. He explained things in a calm, clear way that made you feel like you were learning from someone who genuinely loved good cars and good engineering.
As the years went on and I started working in the motor trade, I had the pleasure of meeting him a couple of times at fleet and industry events. He was exactly as you would hope. Warm, knowledgeable and always ready to talk about where the industry was heading. Those short conversations stayed with me because they reminded me why I fell in love with this world in the first place.
More recently I saw him speaking at EV summits and at the London to Brighton EV Rally here in Brighton. His passion for the shift to electric vehicles was clear. He pushed for progress and cleaner transport, but always with a practical view of what drivers actually need.
Quentin shaped my interest in cars long before I picked up a camera or started writing reviews. To then meet him in person and feel that same enthusiasm first hand was something I’ll always remember.
He leaves a real legacy in broadcasting, consumer advice and the wider EV movement. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone in the automotive world who learned from him over the years.
A genuine car person who made a lasting difference.
As the UK sees record numbers of drivers shifting from petrol and diesel to electric vehicles (EVs), the government is exploring a new “pay-per-mile” tax model for EVs. The move comes amid shrinking fuel duty revenues (currently 52.95p per litre) and questions around how the tax system should evolve to reflect growing EV uptake.
What’s being proposed for EV road tax?
According to media reports, a scheme is under consideration that would see EV owners paying around 3p per mile driven, from approximately 2028. The aim is to plug the drop in fuel duty income as more motorists go electric. Reports say the government is consulting on the idea ahead of the Chancellor’s autumn budget.
At the same time, the previously exempt status of EVs for vehicle excise duty (VED) has ended. From 1 April 2025, most electric cars registered on or after 1 April 2025 pay a first-year VED of £10, then £195 annually from year two.
EVs with a list price over £40,000 at new registration also incur the “expensive car supplement” (often £425 per year for five years) on top of the standard VED.
How could this affect EV drivers?
Here’s an example to illustrate:
A new EV priced under £40,000. Under current rules you pay VED of £10 in year one (if registered April 2025 onwards), then £195 from year two.
If you drive 10,000 miles a year and the 3p-per-mile tax applies, that adds £300 on top of VED = £495 total.
For EVs costing over £40,000, you also add the luxury supplement (c. £425) which could push annual tax toward ~£620 or more. Even with these extra costs, EV running costs remain lower than internal-combustion engine (ICE) cars for many drivers—especially those charging at home. But for people who rely heavily on public charging, the balance could tighten.
Why is the government considering this?
Fuel duty income is in decline. As more drivers switch to EVs, tax revenue from petrol/diesel falls. The pay-per-mile model is seen as a way to make sure all road users contribute toward road infrastructure.
The government states the intention is to create a “fairer system” so EV drivers also contribute, since fuel duty doesn’t apply to electric energy.
Public sentiment: research indicates growing support for the idea that EV owners should pay VED or related contributions. For example, around 69% of UK drivers agreed EV drivers should pay VED.
What’s the industry response?
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and other car-industry bodies warn that a rushed introduction of a per-mile tax could undermine the EV transition.
The AA says the government must tread carefully so that EV tax policy doesn’t act like a “poll tax on wheels”.
Some industry voices emphasise that government focus should remain on boosting charging infrastructure and maintaining incentives, rather than adding new costs to drivers.
Key things to watch for EV buyers and leasers
Check the registration date of your EV. Cars registered on/after 1 April 2025 have the new VED-and-supplement rules.
For models costing over £40,000 when new, budget for the expensive-car supplement in your running cost calculations.
Consider how you charge your car; home charging is still likely the most cost-effective; public charging combined with higher tax/charging-costs could reduce your savings.
If a per-mile tax is introduced in 2028, your annual running cost may rise. Factor this into leasing or purchase decisions.
Stay updated: the details still need to be finalised (how the mileage is monitored, triggers, exemptions, etc.).
What this means for “EV road tax” searches
If you’re looking for information on EV road tax UK, electric vehicle tax UK, or pay-per-mile EV tax, this is the current landscape:
Electric cars are no longer exempt from VED.
Standard EV VED: £195 per year (for most cars registered since April 2025 or between April 2017 and March 2025).
First year rate (for cars registered 1 April 2025 onwards): £10.
Cars over £40,000 list price carry extra annual tax for five years.
Proposed pay-per-mile tax may overlay the above from 2028, adding additional cost for EV drivers.
Final word
The shift in road tax policy means owning an EV will no longer mean zero tax. But for many drivers, EVs will still be cheaper to run than petrol or diesel. The looming pay-per-mile proposal is a signal: when you pick your next EV, consider first-year tax, annual VED, list price thresholds, how you charge, and potential future mileage-based charges.
If you’re thinking of buying or leasing an EV, it’s wise to build these costs into your decision now.
