Crazy land - 20 Janaury 2026
About this episode
A lively discussion kicks off with the popularity of car colors, revealing grey's dominance in the UK market. The episode highlights Honda's new logo for EVs, Mercedes' decision to scale back their driving assistance technology, and Tesla's shift to a subscription model for full self-driving features. The hosts celebrate the Mercedes CLA winning the European Car of the Year after 52 years, while also introducing new models from Skoda and Gili. The episode wraps up with a nod to automotive art and upcoming car events, making it a mix of industry insights and light-hearted commentary.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has released the details about the colours we selected in 2025 for new cars that were registered. Once again, claiming the top spot, grey won out. Black was second and blue rounded out the top three. To find out more, click this SMMT article link here.
HONDA LIGHT UP THEIR NEW LOGOHonda has revealed their new ‘H’ logo that will adorn their electric and hybrid vehicles from 2027 onwards. This is a flat, stylised letter H that will be illuminated from behind. Click this Motor Trader article link here, to read more.
MERCEDES PAUSE THEIR LEVEL 3 DRIVING SYSTEMMercedes-Benz are to pause the sale of their Level 3 automated driving system, which under certain circumstances allowed the driver to have their hands off the steering wheel and be looking away from the road. They will only be fitting Level 2 driver assistance systems to cars that previously had the L3 option. If you wish to find out more, click this electrive article link here.
TESLA FSD TO BE SUBSCRIPTION ONLYTesla has announced that customers in the US will no longer be able to purchase the Full Self Driving driver assistance system outright, from the middle of February 2026. But, it can still be added to suitable cars for a subscription. To read more, click this electrive link here.
UK GOVERNMENT INCREASES FUND FOR EHGV GRANTSThe UK Government is adding £18 million to the fund for electric HGV purchase grant. The amount is tiered dependent on the size of the lorry, with up to £120,000 available to help buy HGVs up over 26 tonnes. You can find out further information by clicking this electrive article link here.
SOUTH EAST GET EVEN MORE EV CHARGERSCharging company Zest will be installing over 200 charging points in the Lewisham Council controlled area. Good to hear the South East is getting even more chargers - but more seriously, we need more and we need all the country to be well provided for. Click this electrive article link here for more.
If you like what we do, on this show, and think it is worth a £1.00, please consider supporting us via Patreon. Here is the link to that CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTNEW NEW CAR NEWS -Mercedes-Benz CLA wins European COTY52 years after the German brand last won a European COTY award, they do so with their latest CLA. Second place, the Skoda Elroq, was 100 points behind. To find out more about the CLA and the European COTY awards, click this Motoring Research article link here.
Skoda PeaqSkoda has revealed the name for their new seven seat electric SUV will be Peaq (pronounced “peak”). Very little else is know, although it is based on the 2022 concept the...
Honda Thats Honda
"brands have gone with a flat logo so they can illuminate it from behind. It's one of those. Yeah. You'd look at it and you'd go, oh, that's Honda. They haven't gone too far out of where they were already. Great. So let's put more lights on the front of cars. Whatever. Moving on, though,"
The Honda That's is a small car that is easy to drive and park. It's made to be very practical and is known for being reliable and saving gas.
The Honda That's is a compact car known for its practicality and efficient use of space. It is designed primarily for the Japanese market and is appreciated for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
level three driving assistance
"...Mercedes has decided it will no longer, for the time being, offer their level three driving assistance..."
Level three driving assistance means the car can drive itself in some situations, but the driver must be ready to take over if needed.
Level three driving assistance refers to a semi-autonomous driving system that allows the vehicle to handle most driving tasks under certain conditions, requiring the driver to take control only when necessary.
level two driving assistance
"...they are going to only allow or only offer a level two system instead..."
Level two driving assistance means the car can help with driving, like steering and speed, but the driver still needs to pay attention and be ready to take control.
Level two driving assistance is a system that provides partial automation, allowing the vehicle to control steering and acceleration, but still requires the driver to remain engaged and ready to take over at any time.
hands off and eyes off
"...that would allow for hands off and eyes off. But the driver was given 10 seconds to stop whatever it is they're doing..."
'Hands off and eyes off' means the driver doesn't have to touch the steering wheel or look at the road because the car is driving itself.
The phrase 'hands off and eyes off' describes a level of automation where the driver does not need to actively control the vehicle or monitor the driving environment, relying fully on the vehicle's systems instead.
level two plus plus
"...level two plus pluses and all that because that's just marketing bump and they are in fact effectively trying to be level three and that's not acceptable by putting the blame on the drivers."
Level two plus plus is a term used to describe a type of automated driving system that is more advanced than basic driver assistance but not fully autonomous. It means the driver still needs to be ready to take control at any time.
Level two plus plus refers to a classification in automated driving systems that suggests a higher level of automation than level two, but not quite reaching level three. This terminology is often used in discussions about the capabilities and limitations of driver assistance technologies.
full self-driving assistance system
"...Tesla has decided that it is not you will no longer be able to outright buy their full self-driving assistance system. But fret not for those who think that Tesla and automated driving technology is good."
Tesla's full self-driving assistance system is a set of features designed to help the car drive itself. However, drivers still need to pay attention and be ready to take control at any moment.
Tesla's full self-driving assistance system is a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that aim to enable fully autonomous driving. However, it requires constant monitoring by the driver and is not fully autonomous as of now.
Dodge Charger
"... but also in terms of actually the right type of charger for the right location. There we go. And that ro..."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that looks really cool and goes fast. It's been around for a long time and is loved by many people who enjoy driving powerful cars.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its powerful performance and muscular design. It has a rich history dating back to the 1960s and is often celebrated for its blend of style and speed, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
Mercedes-Benz CLA
"...congratulations to Mercedes-Benz. Their CLA is the European Car of the Year for 2026 and it is the first time for 52 years..."
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a stylish small car that is part of the luxury brand's lineup. It was recognized as the best new car in Europe for 2026, which shows how well it is designed and how much people like it.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a compact executive car that combines style and performance, making it popular in the luxury segment. It was recently awarded the European Car of the Year for 2026, highlighting its appeal and innovation.
Mercedes-Benz Sclass
"Their CLA is the European Car of the Year for 2026 and it is the first time for 52 years since one of their cars won it. That was in 1974 with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. However, it was quite a beatdown by the CLA. It was a full 100 points clear of second place Skoda LROC."
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a very fancy car that is super comfortable and has a lot of high-tech features. It's considered one of the best luxury cars out there and is often used by important people.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a flagship luxury sedan that represents the pinnacle of automotive technology and comfort. Known for its advanced features and high-quality materials, it has set standards in the luxury car segment for decades.
Skoda
"...clear of second place Skoda LROC."
Skoda is a car brand from the Czech Republic that makes cars that are usually more affordable. They are known for being practical and reliable, making them a good choice for many drivers.
Skoda is a Czech automobile manufacturer known for producing affordable and practical vehicles. The brand has gained popularity in Europe for its value and reliability.
Citroen C5
"... LROC. The Kia EV4 was third which just beat the Citroen C5 Aircross. There was 59 jurors from 23 countries ..."
The Citroen C5 X is a type of car that mixes the features of a car and an SUV, making it roomy and comfortable. It's great for families and has a unique look that stands out.
The Citroen C5 X is a modern crossover that combines elements of a sedan, SUV, and station wagon. It is designed for comfort and practicality, making it a versatile choice for families and those seeking a stylish yet functional vehicle.
Chevrolet C5
"...The Kia EV4 was third which just beat the Citroen C5 Aircross. There was 59 jurors from 23 countries ..."
Kia EV4
"The Kia EV4 was third which just beat the Citroen C5 Aircross. There was 59 jurors from 23 countries and they were given a short list of 35 cars to choose from..."
The Kia EV4 is a new electric car from Kia. It's designed to be efficient and has modern features that make it a good choice for drivers looking for an eco-friendly vehicle.
The Kia EV4 is an electric vehicle that represents Kia's commitment to expanding its EV lineup. It is designed to offer a combination of performance, technology, and practicality.
Citroen C5 Aircross
"The Kia EV4 was third which just beat the Citroen C5 Aircross. There was 59 jurors from 23 countries and they were given a short list of 35 cars to choose from..."
The Citroen C5 Aircross is a comfortable SUV made by Citroen. It has a unique look and is designed to provide a smooth driving experience.
The Citroen C5 Aircross is a compact SUV known for its comfort and distinctive design. It features advanced suspension technology for a smooth ride and a spacious interior.
Skoda Peak
"Moving on and Skoda has revealed the new seven-seat EV SUV or the name for it and it's called the Peak. That's PEAQ."
The Skoda Peak is a new electric SUV that can seat seven people. It's designed to be spacious and practical, making it a good choice for families.
The Skoda Peak is a new seven-seat electric SUV that emphasizes space and practicality, aligning with Skoda's reputation for value and clever design features.
Vision 7S concept car
"This is going, apparently, is based on the Vision 7S concept car which we saw first in 2022. When you think of Skoda, then you know that they are going to have space..."
The Vision 7S is a concept car from Skoda that shows what their future cars might look like. It's not for sale yet, but it gives an idea of new designs and technologies they are working on.
The Vision 7S concept car is a prototype that showcases Skoda's future design direction and technology innovations. It serves as a preview for upcoming models, highlighting features and styling cues.
MEB platform
"based on the MEB, the Volkswagen Group MEB platform. This will allow, which could allow..."
The MEB platform is a special design by Volkswagen for their electric cars. It helps them make different types of electric vehicles using the same basic structure.
The MEB platform is Volkswagen Group's modular electric drive matrix designed for electric vehicles. It allows for flexibility in vehicle design and can accommodate various configurations, including different drive systems and battery sizes.
Land Rover Defender
"Gili is confirming that they are going to bring a Land Rover Defender rival to the UK..."
The Land Rover Defender is a tough SUV made for driving on rough roads and off-road adventures. It's popular among people who like outdoor activities.
The Land Rover Defender is a rugged off-road vehicle known for its durability and capability in challenging terrains. It has a strong following among adventure enthusiasts and is often used for both off-road and urban driving.
Galaxy Cruiser
"they have a concept called the Galaxy Cruiser, first shown in the Shanghai Motor Show last year..."
The Galaxy Cruiser is a new vehicle idea from Gili that looks to compete with the Land Rover Defender. It was shown at a big car show and is almost ready to be made for customers.
The Galaxy Cruiser is a concept vehicle from Gili that aims to compete with the Land Rover Defender. It was first showcased at the Shanghai Motor Show and is designed for both functionality and style.
Lotus Electra
"It's apparently the production car will be based closely on the platform of the Lotus Electra plug-in hybrid."
The Lotus Electra is a type of car that uses both a traditional petrol engine and an electric motor to run. This helps it be more efficient and environmentally friendly.
The Lotus Electra is a plug-in hybrid vehicle that combines a petrol engine with electric power, designed for performance and efficiency. It is part of Lotus's move towards electrification in their lineup.
wading depth
"They say that it's going to have good off-road capabilities, up to 800 millimeter wading depth."
Wading depth is how deep a car can go in water without getting damaged. If a car has an 800 millimeter wading depth, it means it can drive through quite a bit of water safely.
Wading depth refers to the maximum depth of water a vehicle can safely traverse without risking damage to its engine or electrical systems. An 800 millimeter wading depth indicates the vehicle can handle significant water crossings.
ADAS
"Oh, and excellent. They're going to use AI to assist the ADAS functions."
ADAS is a set of technologies in cars that help drivers by making driving safer and easier. This can include things like automatic braking or helping to keep the car in its lane.
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and facilitate driving. These systems can include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated braking.
turbocharged
"which is a turbocharged two-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric only range of up to 220 miles."
Turbocharged means that a car's engine has a special device that helps it produce more power. This makes the car faster and more efficient without needing a bigger engine.
Turbocharged refers to an engine that uses a turbocharger to increase its power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This allows for better performance without significantly increasing engine size.
kilowatt hour
"thanks to a 70 kilowatt hour battery, which is according to China's CLTC test cycle..."
A kilowatt hour is a way to measure electricity. In electric cars, it tells you how much energy the battery can store and how far the car can go before needing to recharge.
A kilowatt hour (kWh) is a unit of energy that measures how much electricity is used over time. In electric vehicles, it indicates the capacity of the battery and how far the vehicle can travel on a single charge.
G-Wagon
"as well as the G-Wagon, which in internal..."
The G-Wagon is a luxury SUV made by Mercedes-Benz. It's known for its strong build and ability to drive off-road, making it a favorite among many people.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, commonly known as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV known for its boxy design and off-road capabilities. It is favored by many for its combination of luxury and ruggedness.
Maserati 430 4V
"...I plumped for that over some of the other choices, which are, like I said, you would, if there's a list of them, then you're going, oh, well, it must have this, this and this."
The Maserati 430 4V is a stylish sports car from the early 90s. It's known for its unique look and powerful engine, making it a rare and interesting choice among car enthusiasts.
The Maserati 430 4V is a luxury sports sedan produced in the early 1990s, known for its distinctive design and performance. It features a V8 engine and is part of Maserati's lineup that emphasized both style and driving dynamics.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.