Its talcum powder - 10 March 2026
About this episode
Discussion centers on the EU's new 'Made in Europe' rules aimed at boosting local production and reducing reliance on the US and China, with potential serious impacts on the UK car industry post-Brexit. The hosts analyze February 2026 UK new car registration figures, noting a rise in EV market share but skepticism about meeting ambitious targets. They highlight brand performance shifts, including declines for DS and Jaguar, and gains for Alpine and BYD. The episode also touches on industry challenges like battery factory delays, tax issues on EV charging, and the ongoing debate over the pace of EV adoption amid fluctuating oil prices.
The EU Commission has unveiled the draft Industrial Accelerator Act, which is aimed at making Europe a powerhouse and self contained when it comes to green energy related industries, including automotive. To read more about the proposals, click this electrive article link here.
By the fact that so much of the act is pointed inwards to EU countries, this has caused fear in the UK automotive industry that they will be penalised thanks to the idiocy of Brexit. Nissan has declared if there is not agreement on UK built cars then it will close Sunderland. Click this Autocar article for more.
FEBRUARY 2026 NEW CAR REGISTRATION FIGURESSMMT released the new car registration figures for February 2026 and there was a surprising number of vehicles registered, with this being the best February since 2004. BEV market share is no where near where it needs to be as it sits at 22%, lower than last year, with the mandate requirement of 33%. SMMT called on the Government to urgently look at the mandate in the face of market reality. You can learn more, by clicking this SMMT article link here.
TRIBUNAL SHOWS PUBLIC CHARGING VAT SHOULD BE 5%In a tax tribunal, Deloitte proved how the public charging VAT rate should only be 5%, using HMRC’s own rules. The use, by an individual, of no more than 1000kWh over a month is classified as “personal use”. To go over this, using public charging, would be very difficult in a EV. To find out more, click this EV Powered article link here.
TESLA EU CO2 POOL USERS DECLINEThe EU allows car companies to buy and sell CO2 credits so that companies can avoid hefty fines for not meeting average fleet levels. Tesla has benefited hugely from this, however that is now changing as Toyota and Stellantis leave their pool. If you wish to read more, click this electrive article link here.
SUZUKI BUYS SOLID-STATE BATTERY FIRMSuzuki has bought Kanadevia, a company that has been developing solid-state batteries for 20 years. This is a great move by one of the smaller Japanese brands and if batteries can be made affordable at scale, this will help them be competitive or even steal a march on others. Click this electrive article link here, to read more.
WRIGHTBUS SELLS 31 EBUSES TO THE ISLE OF WHITEWrightbus is providing 31 double decker electric buses for use on the Isle of White. Using funding from a combination of local and central government schemes, they will help move the islands public transport to being a cleaner service. You can read more by clicking this electrive article link here.
ELECQ HIT BY CYBER ATTACKELECQ, a Chinese home and business smart charger company, has been hacked with customer details being accessed. They operate in the UK and Europe and have informed data protection organisations. The company state that their chargers and systems are working and are protected. For more on this story, click the link here from The Register.
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 -Genesis GV60 MagmaGenesis has revealed their first performance car that we can buy, with the very orange GV60 Magma. Sharing a lot of the underpinnings with the Hyundai Ioniq 5N expect similar levels of go and stop. Click this EV Powered article link to read more.
GM Specialty Vehicles UK launchedGM Specialty Vehicles UK will be importing the large and “luxury” models from the General Motors stables. Think along the lines of the Suburban, Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Silverado. The cars will be left hand drive but all requirements to be UK legal will be undertaken by dealership Clive Sutton. Click this Motoring Research article link for more.
Lamborghini Lanzador killed offBefore the Lanzandor even made it to market, it has been killed off. The official statement is that it is due to a lack of customer demand for such a vehicle. But it was to share the underpinnings from Porsche but they canned their development meaning Lamborghini would not have anything to make the car from. Click this Motoring Research article to learn more.
LUNCHTIME READ: THE GREAT DISGRACEHagerty supply the article we are recommending that you read this week, thanks to Jim Magill for suggesting it! The piece discusses the shocking state of our roads and how that has impacted people’s desire to drive. Click the link here to read it for yourself.
LIST OF THE WEEK: 25 OF THE COOLEST MID-ENGINED CONCEPT CARS THAT NEVER MADE PRODUCTIONTop Gear is where we are pointing you to for the List of the Week. And boy, is it a CRACKER! Check out 25 concept cars and try to pick on from this wonderful list. Click here to get overwhelmed by the options!
AND FINALLY: CAR SONGSaturday Night Live has produced a song that shows the wider population have had enough with silly and dangerous door handles. Click this YouTube link to see for yourself.
battery electric vehicle
"Tell us about battery electric vehicle volumes. They're up 2.8% overall. Year to date, battery electric vehicle share is at 22%."
Battery electric vehicles are cars that run only on electricity stored in batteries. They don't use gas and don't pollute the air when you drive them.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are cars powered entirely by electricity stored in rechargeable batteries, with no internal combustion engine. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and are a major part of the shift towards sustainable transportation.
petrol
""And that's up 43.5% for petrol only and failed hybrids. 46.5% of the market.""
Petrol is the fuel that many cars use to run their engines, like the gas you put in your car at the station.
Petrol refers to gasoline, a common fuel used in internal combustion engines. It powers most traditional cars and is distinct from diesel or electric powertrains.
diesel
""And diesel, 4.5% of the market down 3.8%. Overall, 90,100 vehicles registered.""
Diesel is another kind of fuel for cars, different from petrol. Some cars use diesel engines that can be better for long drives and towing.
Diesel is a type of fuel used in diesel engines, which are often more fuel-efficient and produce more torque than petrol engines but can emit more particulates and nitrogen oxides.
Ford Kuga
"...number 10, the Hyundai Jutron, 1,222. Number 94, Kuga, 1,286. Number eight, the Vauxhall Corsa, 1,335."
The Ford Kuga is a small SUV that many people buy because it’s comfortable and doesn’t use too much fuel. It’s good for families and everyday driving.
The Ford Kuga is a compact SUV popular in Europe, known for its comfortable ride and efficient engines. It competes in a crowded market segment and has steady sales, as reflected in registration numbers. It is often discussed for its practicality and value.
Vauxhall Corsa
""Number eight, the Vauxhall Corsa, 1,335.""
The Vauxhall Corsa is a small, affordable car that’s easy to drive and park. Some versions run on gas, diesel, or electricity.
The Vauxhall Corsa is a popular small hatchback car in the UK, known for its affordability and efficiency. It is available in petrol, diesel, and electric versions.
Volkswagen Tiguan
""Number seven, the Volkswagen Tiguan.""
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV that’s comfortable and roomy. It’s a popular choice for families and everyday use.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV known for its refined driving experience and spacious interior. It is popular worldwide and offers various powertrain options.
Volvo XC40
"...the Volkswagen Tiguan. And number six, the Volvo XC40. Number five, the Jaikoo 7 with 1,446 registered..."
The Volvo XC40 is a small luxury SUV that’s safe and easy to drive. It’s good for families and people who want a nice-looking car with lots of safety features.
The Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury SUV known for its Scandinavian design, safety features, and practical size. It competes well in the premium SUV market and is popular for urban and family use. Its ranking in registrations shows its strong market appeal.
Tesla Model
"... 224 vehicles from 10th to 5th. Number four, the Tesla Model 3, 1,584. And number three, the Mini Cooper, 1,8..."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric car that looks like a small SUV. It can drive a long way without needing to recharge and has lots of cool tech inside. People like it because it's roomy and doesn't use gas.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact all-electric SUV that has gained popularity for its impressive range, performance, and advanced technology features. It is significant as one of Tesla's best-selling models, appealing to buyers looking for an electric vehicle with SUV practicality. Its mention in sales rankings highlights its strong market presence.
Tesla Model 3
"...ehicles from 10th to 5th. Number four, the Tesla Model 3, 1,584. And number three, the Mini Cooper, 1,828..."
The Tesla Model 3 is a small electric car that runs without gas. It's popular because it's cheaper than other electric cars and drives well. Many people buy it as their first electric car.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact all-electric sedan that helped popularize electric vehicles with its relatively affordable price and strong performance. It is one of Tesla's most successful models globally and often discussed due to its impact on the EV market. Its high sales numbers reflect its widespread acceptance.
Kia Sportage
"...y, there's a bit of a step to number two, the Kia Sportage with 2,205. And last but not least, well ahead b..."
The Kia Sportage is a small SUV that many people like because it’s comfortable and has good features. It’s a practical car for families or everyday use.
The Kia Sportage is a popular compact SUV known for its value, comfort, and modern features. It competes strongly in its segment and has seen strong sales in many markets. Its mention reflects its ongoing popularity and market position.
Ford Puma
"...well ahead by over 1,015 registrations, the Ford Puma with 3,220 registrations. I will take us through..."
The Ford Puma is a small SUV that’s easy to drive and looks sporty. It’s popular because it’s good for city driving but still has space for passengers and stuff.
The Ford Puma is a compact crossover SUV known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It has become popular in Europe for offering SUV practicality in a smaller, more efficient package. Its strong registration numbers indicate its market success.
Alfa Romeo
"Alfa Romeo up 77%."
Alfa Romeo is a car company from Italy that makes sporty and stylish cars.
Alfa Romeo is an Italian automotive manufacturer known for its sporty vehicles and rich racing heritage.
Alpine
"Alpine up 1,033%, winning the Not Sponsored by MG Award."
Alpine is a French car brand that makes small, sporty cars that are fun to drive.
Alpine is a French brand specializing in lightweight sports cars, famous for models like the Alpine A110.
Citroën
"Citroen up 83%. It must be all the DS sales that have been corporate sales, registrations."
Citroën is a French car company that makes comfortable and unique cars.
Citroën is a French automaker known for innovative designs and comfort-focused vehicles, including the DS sub-brand.
corporate sales
"It must be all the DS sales that have been corporate sales, registrations."
Corporate sales happen when companies buy cars instead of people buying them for themselves.
Corporate sales refer to vehicle purchases made by companies or fleets rather than individual consumers, often affecting registration statistics.
Great Wall Motors
"GWM up a nice round 40%."
Great Wall Motors is a car company from China that makes big cars like SUVs and trucks.
Great Wall Motors (GWM) is a Chinese automaker specializing in SUVs and trucks, expanding globally.
commercial vehicles
"Or at least vehicles which aren't counted as commercial vehicles."
Commercial vehicles are cars or trucks used by businesses to carry stuff or people.
Commercial vehicles are used primarily for business purposes like transporting goods or passengers, and are often counted separately in registration statistics.
Land Rover
"Land Rover up 29%."
Land Rover is a British car company that makes fancy SUVs good for driving off-road.
Land Rover is a British brand known for luxury SUVs with strong off-road capabilities.
Mercedes-Benz
"Mercedes up 34%."
Mercedes-Benz is a fancy car company from Germany that makes high-quality cars.
Mercedes-Benz is a German luxury automaker famous for premium cars, advanced technology, and performance models.
Bmw Ix3
"...lent to fully charging the new 108 kilowatt hour BMW iX3 from zero to 100% more than nine times. At its o..."
The BMW iX3 is an electric SUV that doesn’t use gas and is nice inside. It’s good for people who want a luxury car that’s better for the environment.
The BMW iX3 is an all-electric version of BMW’s popular X3 SUV, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and zero emissions. The G08 is the model code for this generation, and it is notable for its efficient electric drivetrain and premium features.
Stellantis
"Toyota has not been so bad, but Stellantis kind of has. For a long time, Toyota was leading the world in terms of lowering CO2 emissions before they then sat on their hands when EVs became very much a thing."
Stellantis is a big company that owns many car brands like Jeep and Dodge. They make lots of different cars and trucks.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It owns many brands including Jeep, Dodge, Peugeot, and others, and is a major player in the global automotive market.
Tesla Model S
"That was what funded the development of the Model S. It's a very circular world and people do tend to forget these things. Yeah, yeah. Toyota and Stellantis pulling out across Europe..."
The Tesla Model S is a fancy electric car that can go far on a single charge and is very fast. It helped make electric cars popular.
The Tesla Model S is a luxury electric sedan that helped establish Tesla as a leader in the EV market. It features long-range battery technology and high performance, influencing the development of electric vehicles worldwide.
emissions credits
"Toyota and Stellantis pulling out across Europe, it will make a significant hit in the number of credits that Tesla can sell and therefore the amount of profit that Tesla can make."
Emissions credits are like permission slips that let car companies pollute a little. If they pollute less, they can sell their extra permission to other companies and make money.
Emissions credits are permits that allow companies to emit a certain amount of pollutants. Companies that produce fewer emissions can sell their extra credits to others, creating a financial incentive to reduce pollution.
Honda
"Company still in that pool, by the way, the Tesla pool are Ford, Honda, Mazda and Suzuki. We may well find that Suzuki changes its tune relatively soon."
Honda is a Japanese company that makes cars and motorcycles. They are working with Tesla on emissions rules.
Honda is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for reliable cars, motorcycles, and hybrid technology. They are included in the group trading emissions credits with Tesla.
hybrid vehicle
"I think it's hard to find a volume model from Toyota that is not a hybrid now. Not now that the Igo Cross is not a hybrid. I'm running it through my mind and I can't think of one. I think they've at least got mild. Yeah, I mean, even the Hilux is at least mild. And the Land Cruiser too."
A hybrid car uses both gas and electricity to help it go farther and use less fuel. Toyota makes many of these kinds of cars.
A hybrid vehicle uses both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Toyota is known for popularizing hybrid technology in many of its models.
Toyota Hilux
"Yeah, I mean, even the Hilux is at least mild. And the Land Cruiser too. Anyway, so that's what's happening there."
The Toyota Hilux is a tough truck that many people use for work and off-road driving. It uses a small electric motor to help save fuel.
The Toyota Hilux is a durable and popular pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. It is available with mild hybrid technology to improve fuel efficiency.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...I mean, even the Hilux is at least mild. And the Land Cruiser too. Anyway, so that's what's happening there."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a big, strong SUV that can drive on rough roads and last a long time. People use it when they need a tough car that won’t break easily. It's famous for being very reliable.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary full-size SUV known for its rugged durability and off-road capability. It has a strong reputation worldwide for reliability and is often favored in tough environments. Its mention alongside the Hilux highlights Toyota's focus on durable, capable vehicles.
solid-state battery
"Suzuki has acquired Canadevia, which is a Japanese solid state battery manufacturer... if solid state batteries can be made into a thing that is easily produced for the car industry..."
Solid-state batteries are a new kind of battery that can store more energy and charge faster than regular batteries. They are safer and last longer, which is good for electric cars.
A solid-state battery uses a solid electrolyte instead of the liquid or gel electrolytes found in traditional lithium-ion batteries. This technology promises higher energy density, faster charging, longer lifespan, and improved safety, making it a key focus for future electric vehicles.
Toyota Urban Cruiser
"...a, with some of their vehicles they've done. The Urban Cruiser and so on. Yeah, they did it previously with the..."
The Toyota Urban Cruiser is a small SUV that’s easy to drive in cities. It’s a bit taller than a normal car, so you can see better when driving.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser is a subcompact SUV designed for urban environments, offering a higher driving position and compact dimensions. It has been rebadged in some markets, reflecting Toyota’s strategy to adapt models for different regions.
Toyota Corolla
"...and so on. Yeah, they did it previously with the Corolla that they re-badged. Swayze."
The Toyota Corolla is a small, easy-to-drive car that many people buy because it doesn’t cost much to run and lasts a long time. Sometimes, Toyota sells it under different names in different places.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling compact cars globally, known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It has been frequently rebadged or adapted for different markets, reflecting its widespread appeal. Its mention indicates discussions about model variations or marketing strategies.
electric vehicle (EV)
"if someone can make solid states a usable, realistic thing to deploy on the car industry, this will make such a difference and remove so many of the concern stroke arguments against adopting an EV."
An electric vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. It uses batteries to power the motor, which helps keep the air cleaner.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car powered entirely or primarily by electricity stored in batteries rather than gasoline or diesel. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and are becoming increasingly popular as a cleaner alternative to traditional cars.
Suzuki Ignis
"...see them here doesn't mean they don't exist. The Ignis, fantastic. Imagine the Ignis with the solid sta..."
The Suzuki Ignis is a tiny car that looks a bit different and is easy to park. It’s good for people who want a small, cheap car for driving around town.
The Suzuki Ignis is a small crossover known for its compact size, quirky styling, and efficient use of space. It is popular in urban areas and among buyers looking for an affordable, practical vehicle. Its mention highlights its niche appeal.
Genesis GV60
"...has launched or at least made the UK debut of the GV60 Magma. Is it Magma? Because it's so hot, it's fr..."
The Genesis GV60 is a fancy electric car that looks good and drives smoothly. It’s made by a company that wants to compete with other luxury car brands.
The Genesis GV60 is a luxury electric crossover from Hyundai’s premium brand, Genesis. It features advanced technology, stylish design, and a focus on performance and comfort. Its UK debut is notable as Genesis expands its presence in new markets.
Hyundai Genesis
"... of this year and is currently on display at the Genesis studio in Battersea Power Station until early Mar..."
Genesis is a fancy car brand made by Hyundai. They make nice, comfortable cars with lots of technology, and they are trying to become popular in the UK.
Genesis is Hyundai’s luxury vehicle division, offering premium cars with advanced technology and refined design. The mention of a Genesis studio in Battersea Power Station highlights the brand’s efforts to establish a luxury presence in the UK market.
Hyundai Ioniq
"...cause the drivetrain is basically shared with the Hyundai Ioniq 5N. Not a lot of shocks there, but it's a twin-m..."
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric car that looks very modern and has lots of space inside. It can drive far without needing to charge and is fun to drive.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a modern all-electric compact SUV praised for its futuristic design, spacious interior, and advanced technology. Sharing its drivetrain with performance variants like the Ioniq 5N, it offers a balance of efficiency and sportiness. It is significant as part of Hyundai’s push into the EV market.
Kia EV6
"...January last year. Similar to the 5N and the Kia EV6 GT, you also get active sound design plus and a ..."
The Kia EV6 is an electric car that looks cool and drives well. Some versions are made to be extra sporty and have fun sounds inside to make driving more exciting.
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover that shares its platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, offering strong performance and modern technology. Variants like the EV6 GT focus on sportier driving dynamics and features like active sound design. It represents Kia’s commitment to electric mobility.
Cadillac Escalade
"...ill now be able to offer things like the Cadillac Escalade and other enormous vehicles from Chevrolet GMC a..."
The Cadillac Escalade is a big, fancy SUV with lots of nice features and a powerful engine. People buy it because it looks impressive and feels very comfortable inside.
The Cadillac Escalade is a luxury full-size SUV known for its bold styling, premium features, and powerful engines. It represents American luxury and is often used as a status symbol. Its mention alongside other large GM vehicles highlights its role in the premium SUV segment.
Chevrolet Suburban
"...not going to be a right hand drive. There is the Suburban. Obviously, that will work really well in the UK...."
The Chevrolet Suburban is a very big SUV that can carry lots of people and stuff. It’s popular in the US but not common in places like the UK because it’s so big. People talk about it because it’s good for big families or towing trailers.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a large full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and towing capability, popular in North America. Its potential availability in right-hand drive markets like the UK is notable because such large American SUVs are rare there. It is often discussed for its size and utility.
Gmc Sierra
"... will cost about 110,000 pounds. If you go for a GMC Sierra 1500, which is similar in size to a Chevrolet Sil..."
The GMC Sierra EV is a big electric truck that doesn’t use gas. It’s expensive but good for people who need a strong truck that’s better for the environment.
The GMC Sierra EV is an upcoming all-electric full-size pickup truck from GMC, offering strong capability and modern electric technology. Its high price point reflects its premium positioning. It is significant as part of the shift towards electric trucks in the market.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...rra 1500, which is similar in size to a Chevrolet Silverado, but better built, these washes on the bolts or ..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck used for carrying heavy loads and towing things. It’s strong and popular with people who need a tough vehicle for work or hobbies.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance and versatility. It competes closely with other large pickups and is often praised for its towing and hauling capabilities. Discussions may focus on build quality or comparisons with similar trucks.
VAT
"then UK prices will start at £73,000 plus VAT. The points out here in this most research"
VAT is a tax added to the price of things you buy, like cars. It means you pay a bit more money on top of the price.
VAT stands for Value Added Tax, a consumption tax placed on goods and services in many countries including the UK. It is added to the price of vehicles when sold.
ADAS
""It's like the touchscreen stuff and I'm seeing increasing numbers of people talking about ADAS. And anyone who's listened to the show for any length of time knows how much I've harped on about that.""
ADAS means special technology in cars that helps drivers by making driving safer and easier, like automatic braking or lane keeping.
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, which are electronic systems in vehicles designed to assist the driver in driving and parking functions to improve safety and reduce human error.
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