Plastic Building Blocks - 27 January 2026
About this episode
A dive into the latest automotive news reveals Germany's new electric car grant aimed at boosting EV sales, with a focus on means testing. Volkswagen's restructuring raises questions about brand identity as they centralize decision-making. Renault's sales surge is attributed to their diverse powertrain strategy, while BYD enhances battery warranties to build consumer confidence. The episode also highlights the launch of the Volvo EX60, boasting impressive range and new technology, alongside a nod to the nostalgic Lotus Esprit homage. A mix of industry insights and product updates keeps the conversation engaging.
The German Government has reintroduced their electric car grant that is between €1500 and €6000. Criteria for eligibility include the vehicle’s size, buyer’s earnings and family size. To find out more, click this EV Powered article link here.
RENAULT BECOMES EUROPE’S NO.2 CAR COMPANYRenault Group became the No.2 car maker in Europe after a jump in sales. By doing so they overtook Toyota. They increased their sales by 7.4%, which includes light commercial vehicles. Click this Autocar article link here, to read more.
BYD INCREASED BATTERY WARRANTYBYD, the Chinese EV maker, has increased the warranty for their batteries to 155,000 miles. This increases from the previous 93,000 miles but still remains at eight years. To learn more, click this Motoring Research article link here.
SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES £85M TO LOW CARBON PROGRAMMESIn the 2026/27 budget, from the Scottish Government, they announce that they will be allocating £85 million to ‘low carbon programmes’, with vague language about expanding public charging and support for low emission vehicles. The details, currently, are scant and it would be unwise to get too excited until knowing more. More can be found by clicking this electrive article link here.
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 -Volvo EX60Volvo has unveiled their new electric SUV, the mid sized EX60. Boasting a ‘game-changing’ new platform and ‘radical in-car technology’. With a range of up to 503 miles, prices start at £56,850 and rise to £70,360. Click this Autocar article link here for more.
Leapmotor B05Leapmotor has finally revealed the interior of their B05 hatchback, at the recent Brussels Motor Show. Following the trend of a minimalist space, there are virtually no physical buttons to be seen. A maximum range of 285 miles is better than the Astra Electric but much less than the VW ID.3 and Kia EV4. The brand is hoping the price will sway buyers as it is expected to start below £30,000. Exact prices and availability timings are yet to be announced. Click this EV Powered article for more.
Encor S1The Encor S1 is a restomod based on the Lotus Esprit Mk1. See, restomods don’t just need to be 911s! It comes with a carbon fibre body, a 400bhp V8 and will set you back at least £500,000. It looks fantastic. Click this EVO article link here, to see more.
LUNCHTIME WATCH: ALRIGHT, WHICH RICH DIPSH*TS COMMISSIONED THESE ROLLS-ROYCESWe are sharing a wonderful article from Victoria Scott,
BMW
"...Germany by the way is the UK's largest EV market. Volkswagen BMW dominate the market there..."
BMW is a famous car manufacturer from Germany that makes luxury cars, including electric vehicles.
BMW is a prestigious German automotive brand recognized for its luxury vehicles and performance cars, including electric models.
EV market
"...Germany by the way is the UK's largest EV market. Volkswagen BMW dominate the market there..."
The EV market is about cars that run on electricity instead of gas or diesel. It's a growing part of the car industry.
The EV market refers to the segment of the automotive industry focused on electric vehicles, which are powered by electricity rather than traditional fuels.
Volkswagen Id5
"dominate the market there. In Volkswagen's case to the tune of 102,339 EVs last year and for BMW 51,878. Volkswagen's top sellers include the ID.7, ID.3 and ID.4 and ID.5 but EV sales in Germany slumped to 27% of the market and the country has missed its EV sales targets on multiple occasions."
Volkswagen Id4
"dominate the market there. In Volkswagen's case to the tune of 102,339 EVs last year and for BMW 51,878. Volkswagen's top sellers include the ID.7, ID.3 and ID.4 and ID.5 but EV sales in Germany slumped to 27% of the market and the country has missed its EV sales targets on multiple occasions."
Volkswagen Id7
"Volkswagen's top sellers include the ID.7, ID.3 and ID.4 and ID.5 but EV sales in Germany..."
The Volkswagen ID.7 is an electric car that is part of a series of electric vehicles made by Volkswagen.
The Volkswagen ID.7 is an electric sedan that is part of Volkswagen's ID. family of electric vehicles, designed to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional combustion engine cars.
Volkswagen ID.3
"Volkswagen's top sellers include the ID.7, ID.3 and ID.4 and ID.5 but EV sales in Germany..."
The Volkswagen ID.3 is a small electric car made by Volkswagen, designed to be practical and affordable.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is a compact electric hatchback that is part of Volkswagen's ID. series, aimed at providing an affordable and practical electric vehicle option.
EV sales
"...but EV sales in Germany slumped to 27% of the market and the country has missed its EV sales targets on multiple occasions."
EV sales are the number of electric cars sold. More people are buying electric cars to be more environmentally friendly.
EV sales refer to the sales of electric vehicles, which have been increasing as consumers shift towards more sustainable transportation options.
internal combustion engine
"...to end the sale of pure internal combustion engine cars by 2035."
An internal combustion engine is a machine that makes cars go by burning fuel like gasoline. It's the type of engine most cars have used for many years.
An internal combustion engine is a type of engine that generates power by burning fuel and air inside the engine cylinders, commonly found in traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles.
EV road tax exemption
"Oh one other little thing the German government has extended the German EV road tax exemption through to December 2035."
An EV road tax exemption means that if you own an electric car, you might not have to pay some taxes that regular car owners do. This helps make electric cars more affordable.
An EV road tax exemption refers to a policy that allows electric vehicle owners to be exempt from certain road taxes, encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of owning an electric car.
core brands
"But this group board of management only covers say its core brands. So it's for Volkswagen passenger cars, Skoda, Seacupra and Volkswagen commercial vehicles."
Core brands are the main car brands that a company focuses on. For Volkswagen, these include their main cars like Volkswagen, Skoda, and SEAT.
Core brands refer to the main brands within a company's portfolio that are essential to its identity and revenue. For Volkswagen, this includes brands like Volkswagen passenger cars, Skoda, and SEAT.
Audi
"that Audi has its own little group of brands and that's why you don't see Bentley and you don't see Ducati and you don't see Lamborghini on this particular chart..."
Audi is a car company from Germany that makes luxury cars. They are known for their modern designs and technology.
Audi is a German automotive manufacturer known for its luxury vehicles and advanced technology. It is part of the Volkswagen Group, which includes several other brands.
Volkswagen I
"...cular chart but now some movement taking place at Volkswagen I imagine the outcome will be job losses and well i..."
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a new electric minivan that looks like the old VW buses from the past. It runs on electricity instead of gas, which is better for the environment. People are excited about it because it combines a classic design with modern technology.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric minivan inspired by the classic VW Microbus, part of Volkswagen's ID electric vehicle lineup. It aims to combine retro styling with modern electric technology, appealing to both nostalgia and eco-conscious consumers. The ID. Buzz is often discussed for its innovative approach to electric mobility and its potential to redefine family transportation.
Toyota
"...there's a new income up for number two whereas formally it was Toyota who was the second largest car seller maker brand by volume..."
Toyota is a well-known car company from Japan that makes reliable cars, like the Camry and Corolla.
Toyota is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles. It has been one of the largest car manufacturers in the world for many years.
hybrids
"...the fact that they do have hybrids they have EVs they have pure internal combustion..."
Hybrids are cars that use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This helps them save fuel and produce less pollution.
Hybrids are vehicles that use a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. They can run on either power source or both simultaneously.
Renault 5
"...success off the back of the Renault 5 supermini it's already sold more than 100,000 units since it was launched in 2024. It's not just the best-selling EV in Frankfurt..."
The Renault 5 is a small electric car that many people in Europe are buying. It was launched in 2024 and has sold a lot of units, showing that it's very popular.
The Renault 5 is a supermini electric vehicle that has gained significant popularity in Europe, particularly in the B segment. Launched in 2024, it has already sold over 100,000 units, making it a leading choice among consumers.
Renault Twingo
"...e looking forward to that continuing with the new Twingo, the Megane, Renault 4 etc etc etc. I hadn't real..."
The Renault Twingo is a small car designed for city driving, first introduced in the early 1990s. It’s known for its fun and unusual shape, making it easy to park and drive around town. People talk about it because it's practical and has a lot of character for a small car.
The Renault Twingo is a compact city car first launched in 1992, known for its quirky design and efficient use of space. It has been popular in Europe for its practicality and maneuverability in urban environments. The Twingo is often discussed for its unique styling and role in the small car segment.
Renault 4
"... that continuing with the new Twingo, the Megane, Renault 4 etc etc etc. I hadn't really seen a 4 in the fles..."
The Renault 4 CV is a small car that was made in France a long time ago, from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. It was popular because it was affordable and easy to drive, helping many people own cars for the first time. People mention it because it has a cute old-fashioned look and is part of car history.
The Renault 4 CV is a small French car produced from 1947 to 1961, notable for its innovative design and practicality. It was one of the first mass-produced cars in France and played a significant role in making car ownership accessible to the general public. The 4 CV is often discussed for its historical importance and charming retro appeal.
BYD
"...there's a shopping centre just over there and there is a Renault brand centre there's a BYD one as well..."
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric cars. They are known for their technology and efforts to create environmentally friendly vehicles.
BYD is a Chinese automotive brand known for its electric vehicles and batteries. It has gained international recognition for its innovative technology and commitment to sustainable transportation.
EV battery warranty
"...they have boosted their battery warranty so they now have BYD EVs again eight year EV battery warranty..."
An EV battery warranty is a promise from the car maker that the battery in an electric car will work well for a certain number of years or miles. If it doesn't, they will fix or replace it for free.
An EV battery warranty is a guarantee provided by manufacturers that covers the battery of an electric vehicle for a specified period or mileage. This warranty typically ensures that the battery will perform to certain standards and may cover repairs or replacements if it fails.
battery state of health
"...if the battery state of health drops below 70% in the first 155,000 miles..."
Battery state of health tells you how well a battery is working compared to when it was new. If it's low, it means the battery isn't holding as much charge as it used to.
Battery state of health (SoH) is a measure of the overall condition of a battery compared to its ideal state. It indicates how much capacity the battery has lost over time and use.
refurbished batteries
"...of course the batteries can be refurbished now but yes it's impressive their BYD..."
Refurbished batteries are old batteries that have been fixed up so they can work again. They are made to be as good as new so they can be used in cars or other devices.
Refurbished batteries are used batteries that have been restored to a usable condition. This process can involve replacing worn-out components and testing to ensure they meet performance standards.
Mercedes-Benz EQC
"...the new missages benz glceq it doesn't come cheaper than that in uk when spent around september prices are going to range from 56,850 pounds to 70,360 pounds..."
The Mercedes-Benz EQC is an electric SUV from Mercedes-Benz. It offers a luxurious experience and is designed to compete with other electric vehicles in the market.
The Mercedes-Benz EQC is an electric SUV that is part of Mercedes-Benz's EQ lineup, which focuses on electric mobility. It combines luxury features with electric performance.
plug-in hybrid
"...with mild and plug-in hybrids and power trains as well big worry about these..."
A plug-in hybrid is a type of car that can run on electricity and gasoline. You can charge it by plugging it in, which allows you to drive on electric power for short distances before switching to gas.
A plug-in hybrid is a vehicle that can be powered by both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, with the ability to recharge the battery by plugging it into an external power source.
Volvo XC60
"...there will be uh there will be uh standard the x60 there will also be a cross country one..."
The Volvo XC60 is a type of SUV made by Volvo. It's designed to be safe and comfortable, making it a popular choice for families.
The Volvo XC60 is a compact luxury SUV known for its safety features and stylish design. It offers a comfortable ride and a range of efficient powertrains.
0-62 miles per hour
"...as quick as an rs an odrs 3 to 62 miles an hour with just 3.9 seconds..."
0-62 miles per hour is a way to measure how fast a car can go from a complete stop to 62 miles per hour. It's a standard way to show how quick a car is.
The 0-62 miles per hour metric is a common performance measurement used to indicate how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 62 miles per hour, which is approximately 100 kilometers per hour.
Volvo X60
"it's pointing out the the button free cockpit uh on the x60... if you do want some kind of tactile um constantly located and findable by touch uh ui or user interface..."
The Volvo X60 is a small luxury SUV that focuses on safety and comfort. It's designed to be easy to drive and has a lot of modern technology inside.
The Volvo X60 is a compact luxury SUV known for its safety features and Scandinavian design. It offers a range of technology and comfort options for drivers and passengers.
Eki EV4
"...it's it's a competitor for the eki ev4 uh it once again has a minimalist cabin see everything i've just said about volvo apply that here as well..."
The Eki EV4 is another electric car that the Leap Motor B05 is trying to compete with, showing how many new electric cars are coming out.
The Eki EV4 is an electric vehicle that the Leap Motor B05 is competing against. It represents the growing market of electric cars designed for efficiency and modern features.
Leap Motor B05
"...i shall leap towards the leap motor b05 um it's it's a competitor for the eki ev4 uh it once again has a minimalist cabin see everything i've just said about volvo apply that here as well as well..."
The Leap Motor B05 is a new electric car that has a simple interior and can drive for 286 miles on a single charge, which is a good distance for most people.
The Leap Motor B05 is an electric vehicle that features a minimalist cabin design and is a competitor to other EVs like the Eki EV4. It offers a range of 286 miles, making it suitable for many drivers' needs.
twin-turbo V8
"...400 horsepower twin turbo v8 homage to the original s1 loads of spray..."
A twin-turbo V8 engine is a type of engine that has eight cylinders and uses two turbochargers to make it more powerful. This helps the car go faster and use fuel more efficiently.
A twin-turbo V8 engine features two turbochargers that increase the engine's power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This results in improved performance and efficiency compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
Lotus Esprit
"... a million pounds it's about 430 000 plus a donor esprit v8 to go underneath it or um the esprit v8 alone ..."
The Lotus Esprit is a stylish sports car that has a unique shape and is very light, which helps it go fast. It became famous partly because it appeared in James Bond movies. People talk about it because it's considered a cool and high-performance car.
The Lotus Esprit is a British sports car that was produced from 1976 to 2004, known for its distinctive wedge-shaped design and lightweight construction. It gained fame for its appearances in James Bond films and is appreciated for its sharp handling and performance. The Esprit is often discussed for its iconic status and engineering excellence.
Honda Beat
"...from these tiny sports cars I'm going to choose the Honda Beat I've always liked the Honda Beat I would love to try a Honda Beat at some point..."
The Honda Beat is a tiny sports car made by Honda in the 1990s. It's known for being fun to drive and is part of a special category of small cars in Japan called K-cars.
The Honda Beat is a small, lightweight sports car produced by Honda in the early 1990s. It is part of the K-car category in Japan, which includes compact vehicles with specific size and engine displacement regulations.
Honda That Honda
"...a custom nine 1990 honda civic e f and uh 2007 which is really that old honda s 2000 ..."
The Honda Civic EF is a model from the 1990s that's part of the Honda Civic family. It's appreciated for being light and fun to drive, which is why many people like it.
The Honda Civic EF refers to the fifth generation of the Honda Civic, produced from 1987 to 1991. It's known for its lightweight design and sporty characteristics, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
Honda Civic
"...is titled hot wheels launches a brick built honda civic e f and s 2000 so it turns out that honda have th..."
Honda S 2000
"...da civic e f and uh 2007 which is really that old honda s 2000 um so yes one step oh yes it is isn't it that's c..."
The Honda S2000 is a small sports car that you can drive with the top down, like a convertible. It’s known for being really fun to drive because it can go fast and handles well. People talk about it because it's considered a great car for driving enthusiasts.
The Honda S2000 is a two-seat roadster that was produced by Honda from 1999 to 2009. It is celebrated for its high-revving engine, precise handling, and engaging driving experience, making it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts. The S2000 is often discussed for its performance capabilities and its status as a modern classic.
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