Stellantis' annual loss, Mitsubishi L200 returns, and Government throws money at home charging – with Ginny Buckley, episode 245
About this episode
John Ray and James Baggett discuss a recent surge in car sales and dealer optimism for early 2024, highlighting the shift from a slow start to a busy market. They are joined by Ginny Buckley, a veteran automotive journalist and broadcaster, who shares her extensive career journey from early TV car shows to founding Electrifying.com. Ginny recounts memorable experiences like working with Richard Hammond and covering major events such as the Dakar Rally. The conversation touches on industry trends, dealer challenges, and the evolving landscape of automotive media and launches.
Stellantis falls to first annual loss since merger, but new CEO promises growth
CarGurus remains ‘fully operational’ despite falling victim to ‘cybersecurity incident’
New Chinese brand Lepas confirms first model for UK – and it’s an SUV!
Mitsubishi brings back L200 pick-up to UK market – priced from £36,295
Government to roll out expanded grant to help EV drivers install home chargers
Meet the brands set to shake up dealerships in 2026 at Car Dealer Live
financial year
"And I think March, some businesses are running into the end of their financial year, hoping that it's going to be just as strong."
A financial year is like a business's calendar year for money matters. Companies want to sell as much as possible before this year ends.
A financial year is a 12-month period used by businesses and governments for accounting and financial reporting. Many companies try to meet sales targets before the end of their financial year.
Suzuki Jimny
"I sold a Suzuki Jimny this week to a guy who's just treating himself."
The Suzuki Jimny is a small SUV that can drive on rough roads and is easy to park in cities. It's a fun and practical car for many people.
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact off-road SUV known for its ruggedness and small size, popular for both urban and off-road use.
Volkswagen Passat
"... My very first new car launch was the Volkswagen Passat. I think that was a generation two."
The Volkswagen Passat is a medium-sized car that’s roomy inside and well made. Many people have liked it for a long time.
The Volkswagen Passat is a midsize sedan or estate car known for its spacious interior and solid build quality. It has been a staple in Volkswagen’s lineup for decades and is often remembered fondly by enthusiasts.
Ford Granada
"...ally done some work on a regional car show, I put Granada. And I love cars my whole life because of my dad..."
The Ford Granada is an old big car that families used to drive. People remember it because it was comfortable and looked nice for its time.
The Ford Granada was a large family car produced mainly in the 1970s and 1980s, known for its comfortable ride and classic styling. It holds nostalgic value for many enthusiasts and is often discussed in historical contexts.
Dakar rally
"One of the best things we've ever done is I went to the Dakar rally when Colin McCrae was out there"
The Dakar rally is a very long and tough race that takes place mostly on rough dirt and desert roads, where drivers and their cars have to be very strong to finish.
The Dakar rally is a famous annual off-road endurance event known for its challenging terrain and extreme conditions, testing both driver skill and vehicle durability.
co-driver
"And then I was Colin McCrae's co-driver for the news of the world, which is not a launch, but we did for a shape, one of the shakedown leg at the Monte Carlo rally. I was given, you know, a bit of instruction on, you know, what you do, how you read the book, what you have to do and they put me in the car and they let me be his, you know, his co-driver."
In rally racing, the co-driver is the person who sits next to the driver and tells them what the road ahead looks like. They help the driver know when to turn or slow down so they can drive fast and safe.
A co-driver in rally racing is the navigator who reads pace notes to the driver, helping them anticipate upcoming turns and hazards during the race. They play a crucial role in rally events by providing real-time information to optimize speed and safety.
Monte Carlo rally
"but we did for a shape, one of the shakedown leg at the Monte Carlo rally. I was given, you know, a bit of instruction on, you know, what you do, how you read the book,"
The Monte Carlo Rally is a famous car race that happens on twisty mountain roads with lots of different weather. It's very hard and many drivers want to win it.
The Monte Carlo Rally is one of the oldest and most prestigious events in the World Rally Championship. It is known for its challenging conditions including narrow mountain roads, variable weather, and mixed surfaces.
shakedown
"but we did for a shape, one of the shakedown leg at the Monte Carlo rally. I was given, you know, a bit of instruction on, you know, what you do, how you read the book,"
Before a rally race starts, drivers do a practice run called a shakedown to make sure their car is working well and ready for the race.
A shakedown in rally racing is a test stage run before the actual event to check the car's setup and performance. It allows teams to make final adjustments and ensure everything is working properly.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
"...did for a shape, one of the shakedown leg at the Monte Carlo rally. I was given, you know, a bit of instructi..."
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is an old American car that looks cool and was used in racing events. People remember it for its style and speed.
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a classic American coupe that gained fame partly through motorsport events like the Monte Carlo Rally. It’s often remembered for its distinctive shape and performance heritage.
Volkswagen Golf
"...re aware of that. So it was VW Volkswagen took a golf and they did a project with one of the big energ..."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small car that many people like because it’s easy to drive and good for everyday use. It’s often used in special projects because it’s reliable and popular.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact hatchback known for its solid build quality and versatile performance. It has been a popular choice worldwide and often serves as a platform for various innovative projects, including collaborations with energy companies. Its significance lies in its blend of practicality and driving enjoyment.
Nissan Leaf
"...g, you know, driving, you know, the early Nissan Leafs and the one that really sticks in my mind. And a..."
The Nissan Leaf is an electric car that doesn’t use petrol and is good for people wanting to try driving without gas. The first versions couldn’t go very far, but it helped make electric cars popular.
The Nissan Leaf is one of the pioneering mass-market electric vehicles, known for making electric driving accessible to many. Early models had limited range but helped establish EVs as practical alternatives to petrol cars. It’s often discussed for its role in the transition to electric mobility.
electrification
"So I've always, I've always really been interested in electrification. And then I just reached a point, I think, in about 2019 where I thought nobody's really doing this"
Electrification means cars use electricity instead of gas or diesel to move. This helps make cars cleaner and better for the environment.
Electrification refers to the process of replacing traditional internal combustion engines in vehicles with electric powertrains, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids. It is a major trend in the automotive industry aimed at reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
electric car
"So I cover automotive stories for them. We did a report about are we ready for the electric car? And we put back in, I think it was 2018, 2019, ITV tonight viewers"
An electric car runs on batteries and electricity instead of gas. It helps keep the air cleaner because it doesn't produce smoke from the tailpipe.
An electric car is a vehicle powered entirely or primarily by electricity stored in batteries, rather than by a gasoline or diesel engine. Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions and are considered a key technology for reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
EVs
"from all around the country into EVs and let them loose. And, you know, a lot of them really love the experience"
EVs are cars that use electricity to run instead of gas. They have big batteries that power the motor.
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars powered by electric motors using energy stored in batteries. This term includes battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Formula E
"Tom Ford, who, you know, from Top Gear and Nikki Shields, Formula E, they were committed to joining."
Formula E is a type of car race where all the cars run on electricity instead of gas. It's like a race to see which electric car is the fastest.
Formula E is a class of motorsport that uses only electric-powered cars, focusing on sustainable racing and innovation in electric vehicle technology.
EV
"No one's got a better idea, though, than you when it comes to what consumers are thinking about EVs. Give us an overview of what the feeling is out there. I mean, bearing in mind, I suppose, the people coming to your site, they are their EV buyers, are they? Or are they EV?"
An EV is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. It uses batteries to power the motor, so it doesn't need fuel like regular cars.
EV stands for Electric Vehicle, which is a car powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel engines.
electric vehicle (EV)
"And just under 50% will tell us that they don't have confidence in driving an EV and the prospect of that making that switch, you know, around two-thirds don't have confidence in how you charge one."
An electric vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. It uses batteries to store power and doesn't need fuel like regular cars.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car powered entirely or primarily by electricity stored in batteries, rather than by an internal combustion engine using gasoline or diesel.
EV charging
"you know, around two-thirds don't have confidence in how you charge one. So for new EV drivers, people new to it, there's definitely that hand-holding is still really important, those basics of how much range do you really need? How do you charge? Charging explained,"
Charging an EV means plugging it in to fill up its battery with electricity, similar to how you fill a gas tank but with power instead of fuel.
EV charging refers to the process of replenishing an electric vehicle's battery using electric power from charging stations or home chargers. It involves different levels of charging speeds and connector types.
EV range
"those basics of how much range do you really need? How do you charge? Charging explained, you know, why did you range drop in winter?"
EV range means how far an electric car can go before it needs to be charged again.
EV range is the distance an electric vehicle can travel on a single battery charge. It varies based on battery size, driving conditions, and temperature.
Volkswagen Id3
"...t for his wife, and he turned up in a Volkswagen ID3. So those sorts of conversations are actually qu..."
The Volkswagen ID.3 is a small electric car that’s easy to drive and doesn’t use petrol. It’s made to help people switch to electric cars.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is a compact electric hatchback designed as a key model in VW’s electric vehicle lineup. It represents the brand’s push towards electrification with a focus on everyday usability and affordability.
charging at home
"You need to be able to charge it at home really to make the most of this."
Charging at home means plugging your electric car into a charger at your house so it can get power. This is important because it makes using the car easier.
Charging at home refers to the practice of plugging in an electric vehicle to a private charging station or outlet at one's residence. This is often necessary for convenient and efficient use of EVs, especially in the used market.
battery health
"Battery health was still at 91%."
Battery health means how good the battery still is at holding power. If it's high, the car can drive far like when it was new.
Battery health refers to the remaining capacity and efficiency of an electric vehicle's battery compared to when it was new. It is a key factor in the vehicle's range and performance.
MOT
"Perhaps updated at the MOT stage once a year, that it has to be done."
MOT is a yearly test in the UK to make sure cars are safe to drive. They check things like brakes and lights, and for electric cars, maybe the battery too.
MOT is an annual test in the UK that checks the safety, roadworthiness, and emissions of vehicles. Including battery health checks for EVs at MOT could help ensure their reliability.
Dodge Charger
"...but you need to spend over a thousand pounds on a charger. Oh, that's quite a lot of money."
The Dodge Charger is a big, strong car from America that looks cool and goes fast. Sometimes, fixing or upgrading it can be a bit expensive.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size American muscle car known for its powerful engines and aggressive styling. It’s often associated with performance and a strong road presence, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. The reference to spending over a thousand pounds likely relates to maintenance or upgrades.
EV (Electric Vehicle)
"So and I think that that's where with EV I actually think the dealer role becomes increasingly important. Whether that's on a test drive, I don't know because I wonder whether for second and third EV owners are they even doing test drives?"
An EV is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. It uses batteries to move and is better for the environment.
An EV is a vehicle powered entirely or primarily by electricity stored in batteries, offering benefits like zero tailpipe emissions and lower running costs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.
Porsche Taycan
"... This is going to sound, I would have always had Taycan Crestorismo because I've got a dog. And I love t..."
The Porsche Taycan is a fast and fancy electric car that doesn’t use petrol. It’s special because it’s fun to drive and helps the environment.
The Porsche Taycan is a high-performance electric sports sedan that combines Porsche’s driving dynamics with zero-emission technology. It’s significant as one of the first luxury electric vehicles to offer thrilling performance and advanced tech.
Renault 5
"Yes, it is. So I've been running a Renault 5 for a year. And I think that's a really special ..."
The Renault 5 is a small old car that many people liked because it was easy to drive and looked nice. It’s special because lots of people remember it.
The Renault 5 is a classic compact hatchback that was very popular in Europe during the 1970s and 1980s. It’s considered a special car due to its iconic design and cultural impact.
Taycan Cross Turismo
"So I think my budget is Renault 5. Second-hand Taycan Cross Turismo. But I couldn't afford the insurance on that."
The Taycan is a fancy electric car that’s very fast and uses new technology. It’s one of the best electric cars you can buy if you want something special.
The Taycan refers to the Porsche Taycan, a luxury electric sports car known for its performance and technology. It’s often considered a benchmark for electric vehicles in the premium segment.
Dodge Challenger
"...ike how buyers are really using AI, what Chinese challenger brands mean for your forecourt and how the best ..."
The Dodge Challenger is a cool, fast car that looks like old muscle cars but has new technology. People talk about it because new car brands from China are starting to compete with cars like this.
The Dodge Challenger is a classic American muscle car that combines retro styling with modern performance. It’s often discussed in the context of buyer trends and competition from emerging brands, including Chinese challengers in the automotive market.
Dodge Ram
"... had big plans to make things like this electric Dodge Ram truck in America. I think they had some plans ar..."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck from America that can carry heavy loads. They are planning to make electric versions that don’t use petrol.
The Dodge Ram is a large American pickup truck known for its power and capability. There have been plans to introduce electric versions, reflecting the shift towards electrification in the truck segment.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
"... make them kind of things like the Julia and the Stelvio Electric, which aren't at the minute. But they'v..."
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a stylish and sporty SUV from Italy. They might make electric versions in the future, but right now it’s known for being fun to drive.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a sporty luxury SUV that emphasizes Italian design and driving dynamics. While there are plans for electric versions, currently it is known for its performance and distinctive styling.
Stellantis
""...it will worry anyone watching Stellantis, I'm sure. I like to talk about Stellantis in general...""
Stellantis is a big car company made when two big car companies joined together. They make lots of different cars under different brand names.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed in 2021 by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group. It owns many well-known car brands including Jeep, Dodge, Peugeot, and Fiat.
Renault Twingo
"...'ve done with the 4 and the 4? The 4th coming to Twingo is joyful. It's the most like amazingly fun."
The Renault Twingo is a tiny car that’s easy to drive in the city and fun to use. It’s great if you want a small car that’s not boring.
The Renault Twingo is a small city car known for its compact size and fun driving experience. The latest generation is praised for its joyful character and urban practicality.
Citroen 2CV
"...ing a bit more of that. But where's the electric 2CV? Bring some of these great brands back."
The Citroen 2CV is an old, simple car from France that many people loved because it was easy to fix and use. Some people want a new electric version of it.
The Citroen 2CV is a legendary French economy car known for its simple design and practicality. It’s often nostalgically referenced and there is interest in an electric version to revive its spirit.
Citroen C3
"They could play on all their kind of innovation, but the C3 is not. You know, so it's okay, but it's not. It's really a budget car, isn't it?"
The Citroen C3 is a small car that is easy to afford and good for everyday driving. It's not very fancy but gets the job done.
The Citroen C3 is a compact hatchback car that is positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle in Citroen's lineup. It is known for its comfort and distinctive styling but is often seen as a budget-friendly option.
Volkswagen Egolfs
"Yeah, the one that I just think that I've found with the dealerships is Volkswagen e-golfs. They are incredibly popular."
The Volkswagen e-Golf is a small car like the regular Golf but runs on electricity instead of petrol. Many people like it because it’s easy to use and good for city driving.
The Volkswagen e-Golf is the electric variant of the popular Golf hatchback, offering an accessible entry into electric driving with familiar styling. It gained popularity for combining the Golf’s practicality with an electric powertrain.
Peugeot 205 GTI
"...ybe they could have had a differentiation there. 205 GTI. Electric 205 GTI would have been."
The Peugeot 205 GTI is a small, fast car from a long time ago that was fun to drive. People still talk about it because it was really good for its size.
The Peugeot 205 GTI is a classic hot hatch from the 1980s and 1990s, celebrated for its sharp handling and sporty character. It’s often mentioned in discussions about iconic performance small cars.
Peugeot 208 GTI
"It's coming, is it? 208 GTI, but yes. Yeah, just anyway."
The Peugeot 208 GTI is a small car that’s faster and more fun to drive than regular models. It’s good if you want a sporty car that’s still easy to use.
The Peugeot 208 GTI is a sporty version of the popular 208 hatchback, offering enhanced performance and handling. It appeals to drivers seeking a small but fun-to-drive hot hatch.
Mitsubishi Outlander
"especially ASX. I sold a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV this week. That was one of the nine that we..."
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a family car that uses both petrol and electricity to save fuel. It’s good if you want to drive a normal car but also use electric power sometimes.
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid SUV that combines petrol and electric power for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It’s popular among buyers looking for a practical family SUV with some electric driving capability.
Ford Ranger
"is there? You've got your Ford Ranger and your Amarok to the same thing. You've got a...."
The Ford Ranger is a medium-sized truck that can carry heavy stuff and go off-road. It’s like other trucks such as the Amarok and is good for work or fun.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck popular for its durability and versatility, often compared with similar models like the Volkswagen Amarok. It’s favored for both work and leisure due to its robust build and off-road capabilities.
Toyota Hilux
"... got a... an IZuzu, a Maxus electric thing and a Hilux, and that's kind of it, isn't it?"
The Toyota Hilux is a strong truck that can drive on rough roads and carry heavy things. Lots of people trust it because it lasts a long time.
The Toyota Hilux is a rugged and reliable pickup truck known worldwide for its toughness and off-road capability. It’s often used in challenging environments and has a strong reputation for durability.
Toyota RAV4
"...much as they quoted the same person for a Toyota RAV4. Insurers, Ajiz, is that how you say it? Ajiz?"
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that’s good for families because it’s reliable and doesn’t cost too much to run. Many people buy it because it’s easy to own.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that combines practicality, reliability, and efficiency. It’s one of the best-selling SUVs globally and is often referenced in insurance and ownership cost discussions.
7 Jq7
"for four of the Chinese cars on the list. The JQ7, which was the second best... I should have work..."
The JQ7 is a car made in China that many people like. It shows how Chinese cars are becoming more popular around the world.
The JQ7 is a Chinese car model that ranked highly among Chinese vehicles in a given list, reflecting the growing presence of Chinese brands in global markets. It’s part of the discussion on how Chinese cars are influencing the automotive industry.
Volkswagen Tiguan
"...gher for that car than the equivalent Volkswagen Tiguan. Carwell says this is down to the fact"
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV that’s comfortable and nice inside. People compare it to other similar cars to see which is better or cheaper.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV known for its comfortable ride and premium feel. It’s often compared to other vehicles in its class for pricing and features, making it a common benchmark in the segment.
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