Charlie Duncan

MAJOR CAR BRAND PAUSES PRODUCTION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE Government Minsters aren't the best people to advise on technology change Those who specialise in product design have to look at all of the factors involved in product acceptability including usability and acceptability in the market place Despite repeated warnings that the BEV is not a universally acceptable replace for the ICE power train, governments press ahead Vehicle manufacturers and product specialists are being ignored so Europe and the UK dig an ever deeper hole for ourselves. This will cost us dearly There's a say that goes like this: - 'When in a hole, stop digging' #BEV #Cars #Energy #Fuels #environment #ICE #hydrogen #EFuels

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🚗🔌 What’s Going On with London's Congestion Charge? 🔋❗ I was surprised but I wasn't at the same time to hear the recent announcement that London will extend the £15-a-day congestion charge (£15 a Day!!! Come on) to all zero-emission vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs), starting from Christmas Day 2025. This decision has brought a lot criticism and got me thinking – are we taking away all incentives for people to go electric while simultaneously pushing for an EV transition? (I mean yes there are loads of reason to go EV but for some people they need a little extra push). For years, the shift towards EVs has been encouraged as a key strategy to combat air pollution and reduce carbon emissions. Incentives, such as exemptions from congestion charges, have played a significant role in making this transition attractive for many Londoners. However, this new policy seems to contradict the goal of promoting greener transportation. Am I missing something here? (Happy to be wrong but its getting silly) Is there a deeper strategy behind this move that justifies the removal of these incentives? Or is this a step backward in our efforts to encourage sustainable travel? I'm genuinely interested in hearing different perspectives on this. Let's discuss! Are we heading in the right direction with this new policy? 🤔💬 #EVs #SustainableTransport #LondonCongestionCharge #CleanAir #EnvironmentalPolicy #ElectricVehicles #SadiqKhan

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Morris Garage has introduced Battery as a Service (BaaS), levelling the playing field between electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in terms of ownership costs. Highlights of BaaS: * Lower Upfront Costs: By reducing the initial investment for personal vehicles, consumers can free up cash to invest elsewhere, creating a win-win situation. * Lifetime Warranty: BaaS includes a lifetime warranty for the battery, covering unlimited kilometers, addressing concerns about battery issues and degradation. * Cost Efficiency: While a conventional ICE vehicle achieving 20 km/l incurs a cost of Rs 5.10 per kilometer, BaaS reduces that to just Rs 3.50 per kilometer.

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Stellantis has just announced its Vauxhall plant in Luton will be shutting down, in a big blow to the local economy and the state of manufacturing in the UK. The reason? the weight of government quotas for EVs in combination with slowing demand. For many manufacturers, this confirms their concerns over the unfeasibility of the ZEV mandate. At Manufacturing Digital, we find ourselves agreeing with calls for a more flexible alternative. What do you think? https://lnkd.in/egMADZwF #Manufacturing #EVs

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September saw plugin EVs take 29.4% share of the #UK auto market, up from 23.4% year on year. Both BEVs and PHEVs grew volume YoY, by 24% and 32% respectively. Overall auto volume was 275,239 units, up 1% YoY, but still far below pre-2020 seasonal norms (350,000+). #Tesla was the leading BEV brand in September. September’s sales tally saw combined plugin EVs take 29.4% share of the UK auto market, with full electrics (BEVs) taking 20.5%, and plugin hybrids (PHEVs) taking 8.9%. These compare with YoY shares of 23.4% combined, 16.6% #BEV and 6.8% #PHEV. Against broader auto volumes which were barely flat YoY, both BEVs and PHEVs grew volume at a healthy clip. BEVs grew 24.4% to a new record high of 56,387 units, whilst PHEVs grew 32.1% to 24,468 units. Meanwhile, HEVs were essentially flat YoY, diesels saw a 7% volume decline, and petrol-only vehicles lost substantial volume of 9.3%, dropping share from 55.7% to 50.1% YoY. Best Selling BEV Brands Tesla was yet again the best selling BEV brand in September, with the Model Y leading with 5,799 units, enough to put it in joint 4th place in the overall auto market. Year to date, the Model Y is the 9th best selling automobile overall (and by far the best selling BEV), with 23,485 units registered. #Volkswagen took a surprise 2nd place in the September BEV rankings, a much stronger performance than typical (the brand is only in the 6th spot year to date). #BMW, conversely, slipped back to the 12th spot, despite being 2nd in the year-to-date rankings. In both cases, these volume swings are likely more to do with irregular shipments of right–hand-drive units arriving in the UK than fundamental changes in demand. #Mercedes took the third spot in September, unchanged from its position in August. We don’t have enough resolution in UK BEV model sales data to definitively identify every newly launching model, but can identify a few. The most significant debuts in volume terms are the new #Polestar 3 and Polestar 4, which registered 93 units and 744 units in September, respectively. Polestar looks like it may have a big hit on its hands with the 4. These are remarkable launch volumes for a vehicle which starts from £59,995. Let’s see what the sustainable volume is going forwards. The new #Porsche Macan sold its first ~113 units into the UK in September, and will surely grow from here, with the UK market having outsized weighting for the Porsche brand (the Taycan sold 288 UK units in September). The #MG Cyberster Roadster made its first UK customer deliveries in September, with a healthy 70 units registered — very strong for a vehicle like this, in not-the-most-practical segment. The new MG is the only open-top BEV two-seat sports car on the market. 

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WHAT THE DEALER DIDN'T TELL YOU ABOUT YOUR NEW ELECTRIC CAR - AN ANALYSIS BY NEIL WINTON An observation. More details in the forthcoming main report but market feedback broadly supports this report If you can accommodate the real world range within you usage profile you will probably be OK. But don't forget the fall away in battery capacity with time If you sell your car after 2 to 3 years not a problem but if you are buying second hand you will need to take this into account #BEV #TRANSPORTATION #EVs #Environment

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If you are worried about BEV battery deterioration, this should be reassuring or at least a surprise What Car? has just published its latest bi-annual ‘drive ’em until they die’ endurance test on a series of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to find out how far they can really go on a full charge in real-world driving conditions and how efficiently they use the electricity stored in their batteries. For safety reasons, because the cars were to be driven until they ran out of charge, the test was conducted at the Horiba-MIRA proving ground in Warwickshire under controlled conditions. What jumped out to me was that the test included a nine-year-old Tesla Model S with 258,000 miles on the clock to determine whether concerns about battery longevity are justified. Despite it still being on its original battery and effectively having been to the moon and beyond after 213 miles of driving, the ageing Model S finally came to a halt. It was the third shortest total distance, and the car was the least efficient of the twelve cars in the test, but it relied on older tech. Despite its age, high mileage, and the fact that it was still using its original battery, the test revealed that the Model S had lost around 13% of its original capacity; I am both impressed and reassured by such an outcome. Source https://lnkd.in/ebNpz8Pe

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I wrote this a while ago, and it needs updating to include eFuel/synthetic fuel opportunities, but conversations around the topic are firing up. https://lnkd.in/eEAAm4nN Synthetic fuels cost A LOT at the moment, so to incentivise their use: - Increase tax on any dinosaur-derived petroleum products to discourage their use, and encourage the development, production and use of synthetic fuels - Over time, mandate a sliding scale % mix of synthetic/dino-juice to control both the uptake in production and the downturn in fossil fuels - Incentivise "over-production" of synthetic fuels to create a carbon buffer in the system, which can be funded as a carbon credit by car manufacturers, allowing artisan production to continue (Ferrari, Aston Martin, McLaren etc.) The net result is the existing infrastructure can be used (depots, petrol stations, tankers etc), at worst they are CO2 neutral and existing (and perfectly functioning) ICE vehicles stay on the road. You can even keep tax on ICE fuels high thus incentivising the use of electric cars where practicable, but leaving the option there for sustainable ICE fuel use where it isn't!

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Always something new and interesting to be found here.

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The new parliamentary briefing on autonomous vehicles has just been released. It is unfortunate that despite the strenuous efforts in relation to this and other UK government idocuments, on my part and that of other designers, the focus continues to remain firmly on the technical substrate of the vehicles rather than on their likely uses and impacts on people. Issues in relation to the vehicle architectures which will emerge (a mobile office will not be the same as a mobile restaurant which will not be the same as a robo-taxi) are not yet mentioned in such documents. And the likely psychological and social impacts of the vehicle's anthropomorphism and agency are likewise absent from the framing. https://lnkd.in/e2v7RN3b

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Automotive Engineering Insight. Read on #Substack: https://lnkd.in/erG3hqyP Read on #LinkedIn: https://lnkd.in/eSBgmckd #automotive #engineering #technology #newsletter

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The UK automotive industry is already complaining about the penalties for not selling enough EVs to reluctant consumers, but I wonder whether the forthcoming HGV mandate will risk further damaging the UK Automotive Industry. The forthcoming mandate for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) to transition to zero-emission technologies presents significant challenges and risks for the UK automotive industry, echoing the issues currently faced by the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). Stellantis has already raised concerns about the impact of the UK's regulatory approach on its EV production plans. Without adequate government support and incentives, Stellantis has warned that it may halt EV production in the UK, which could lead to job losses and reduced consumer choices. This situation is compounded by post-Brexit trade rules, which require a high percentage of EV components to originate from the UK or EU, making UK-based production uncompetitive. The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires 70% of Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) to be zero-emission by 2030, and all new cars and vans to be zero-emission by 2035, is ambitious. Currently, only 6% of new LGVs sold are zero-emission, highlighting the scale of the challenge. The same ambitious targets are set for HGVs, with a ban on new diesel HGVs by 2040. However, as of now, only 5% of new HGVs sold are zero-emission, predominantly battery-electric. The automotive industry, including major players like Ford and Stellantis, supports the government's zero-emission goals but stresses the need for more robust infrastructure and regulatory clarity. The transition for HGVs is particularly complex due to the varied use cases and the lack of a dominant zero-emission technology. The government's recent initiatives, such as the £381 million Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund and the development of new charging infrastructure, are steps in the right direction. However, industry leaders argue that without substantial incentives and support, the mandated targets may lead to significant disruptions. A balanced approach that combines regulation with strong incentives is crucial to ensuring the industry's sustainability and growth. The UK government must provide the necessary support to keep the automotive and HGV sectors competitive and thriving in the face of global competition and the shift towards electrification. https://lnkd.in/eNPhwPh7 #AutomotiveIndustry #ZeroEmissionVehicles #HGVs #UKGovernment #Stellantis #EVMandate #SustainableGrowth

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Three quick highlights, then its over to you! 1. The title for this study is ‘Connected and automated mobility’. The Commission is following the government in understanding this phrase to refer to the broad set of vehicle technologies that can be used in wheeled (non-rail), ground-based vehicles. 2. While the focus of the Commission’s study is on self-driving vehicles, the Commission is also interested in the benefits that vehicle and roadside connectivity could bring separately or in addition to any role in supporting the operation of self-driving vehicles. 3. Responses should be sent to [email protected] by the end of Monday 3 June 2024. #CAMS #Connected #Automated #Vehicle #Future #Mobility

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🚗 **Electric Journey: Norfolk to London with the MG4 Standard Range** ⚡ As someone who's always cautious about long trips in an electric vehicle, I recently took the plunge and drove my MG4 Standard Range from Norfolk to London. I've had the MG4 for a year so far, but I've primarily used it for my daily commute to work and back. Initially, I was hesitant, especially knowing that the miles seem to drop off faster than forecasted on the M11 at 70 MPH. However, a quick 30-minute charging stop topped the car back up to 100%, making the journey much more feasible. The real surprise came when driving in and out of London. Unlike petrol or diesel cars that burn through fuel in heavy traffic, the MG4 was unaffected by the stop-and-go conditions. Additionally, I didn’t have to worry about the congestion charge or the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge, making the trip even more cost-effective and stress-free. What I thought would be a challenging trip turned into a delightful experience. The efficiency and performance of the MG4 in urban traffic were impressive, showing just how well electric vehicles can handle both motorway speeds and city congestion. One downside to note is the lane assist feature, which I always have to turn off as it doesn’t understand the lanes here properly. For anyone considering an electric vehicle for longer trips, I can confidently say that it’s a viable and enjoyable option. #ElectricVehicles #MG4 #SustainableTravel #EVJourney #ElectricCars #LondonTrip

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It was a privilege to take part in JLR’s Raw Materials Roadshow in Gaydon last week, showcasing Tata Steel UK’s commitment to advancing sustainable automotive materials. A highlight was presenting our Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology in VR – giving JLR colleagues a preview of how we’ll manufacture the high-performance, low-carbon steel that will shape the vehicles of tomorrow. It was fantastic to reconnect with familiar faces: Ian Cross, Anthony Riley, Richard Aylmore, Stephen Manley and David Weir. Our transition to EAF-based steelmaking is not just about reducing emissions. We’re reshaping the future of steel to meet the evolving needs of OEMs like JLR. Tata Steel UK currently supplies steel for hundreds of parts on JLR vehicles. From 2028, JLR will have access to steel with over 50% less CO2 and up to 75% recycled content, with the added benefit of closed-loop recycling. This supports JLR’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero by 2039. With Tata Steel UK colleagues Katharine Hawkswell, Liz Allen, Carlo Di Terlizzi, Nick Silk, Peter Jones and Janka Cafolla. #AutomotiveIndustry #GreenSteelFuture #NetZero

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https://lnkd.in/eVmwC4Ss Some good news about EV's. This really comprehensive report by Ayvens consultants puts the UK as 10th for EV adoption out of 47 countries. And the UK EV market is ranked as mature - only just, but it's there. After all the bad things the politicians were saying during the recent election about technology in this country that's got to be a plus. Also it rates the Total Cost of Ownership for an EV as now on a par with an ICE vehicle. Well worth a read to get a wider perspective of EV fleets around the world, including our own. #electricvehicles #fleetmanagement #decarbonisation

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This week's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Transport News Brief lead comment, The future of long distance zero emission vehicles is here One clear takeaway with trade show season is back in full swing following the summer break is the gathering pace and growing diversity of longer distance zero emission vehicle launches. Last week at Cenex Expo at Millbrook, we saw the launch of a new hydrogen single decker bus while, in Europe this week, a new battery electric truck capable of up to 600km on a single charge has been announced. Such innovations by manufacturers make clear that zero emission interregional and long-distance operations – without having to charge or refuel during a full day of driving – are increasingly available for transport businesses to invest in. The sooner that operators explore the possibilities of going green, the better placed their business will be for the future, with an ambitious end of sale of non-zero emission HGVs coming as early as 2035 while a rising number of local authorities are considering how their region can switch to zero emission buses. Events like the Commercial Vehicle Show are crucial to helping operators build their awareness of the very latest vehicles and technology, and good news came from the Show this week with the announcement of new Event Director Michael Costain, as part of plans bring a reinvigorated strategic vision. Mike has a proven track record in event management having successfully launched, organised and grown large-scale events during the past 25 years and, alongside the Show’s new strategic partner Nineteen Group, now is a hugely exciting time for the event. With the industry investing in new electric and hydrogen technology that will meet the UK’s long-term ambitions to decarbonise, the UK also needs a legislative agenda that makes using these vehicles possible for everyone. That includes mass road transport, and the Better Buses Bill laid before parliament this week can help do that, with a package of measures that empowers local leaders across the country to deliver services that suit their region’s needs. All local transport authorities across England will be given new powers to run their own bus services, like London and Manchester, and given those two cities are among the leading locations for zero emission bus rollout, it is possible that the new Bill can drive decarbonisation nationwide. As SMMT set out in a recent report, however, modernising transport infrastructure is also essential. The UK already has the largest zero emission bus market in Europe so now we need the chargepoints and hydrogen refuelling stations, not just at depots, but shared hubs and en-route locations which can be used by trucks and vans too – unlocking decarbonisation the whole commercial vehicle sector.

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The Reality of the UK's EV Transition!! The UK’s push to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 is facing a harsh reality! Ford is cutting 800 jobs, Stellantis is closing a plant, and manufacturers are struggling with ambitious EV targets. Demand is falling short, the industry is forced into heavy discounting, risking job losses and business closures. Ford’s call for government-backed incentives to boost EV uptake is a wake-up call: targets alone won’t work. The environmental goal is critical, but economic survival must come first! #ElectricVehicles #Sustainability #JobLosses #EVTransition #AutomotiveIndustry #ClimatePolicy

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