Tag Archives: mile

News

On the scene on the M25 closure: did it actually trigger visitors chaos?

I hop off the prepare at Byfleet & New Haw, about half a mile north of the diversion route, and head for the A245, anticipating it to be reworked into a parking lot. Cut down the alley, head down the trail in the direction of the roundabout and… Oh. Everything is okay.

Byfleet isn’t a dystopian future imaginative and prescient of a cyberpunk future the place public transport is banned and individuals are compelled to drive all over the place, choking the streets with hundreds of sorts of visitors – it’s only a small city with a highway that hardly qualifies as busy going by the center of it. Sure, there are extra lorries than regular, however the highway itself is flowing alongside like it will on every other Saturday morning.

M25 diversion traffic flowing

The diversion route crosses over an eerily abandoned M25 – eight lanes of silence. A good few locals have cycled up right here to check out the empty expressway, they usually share my disbelief that it’s attainable for the diversion path to be so quiet – particularly as any M25 points have a tendency to finish up clogging their native roads.

Further alongside, West Byfleet excessive road – a traffic-light managed crossroads that was anticipated to be an enormous bottleneck – can also be flowing simply as easily because it usually would. I communicate to some store house owners, who’re simply as shocked about the entire thing as I’m.

“I cancelled all of our appointments for today, but I needn’t have bothered,” says Ian Barnes, who runs Surrounds Art on the excessive road. “I drove in super early at 6am expecting pandemonium, but it’s been even quieter than it normally is – I think that’s because it’s been advertised so well and so far in advance.”

News

Tata’s £4 billion UK battery factory impacting Somerset

Close to the M5 near Bridgwater in Somerset, groundwork near the village of Puriton has begun for the UK’s electric car industry. The preparations for Tata Group’s £4 billion gigafactory have started, with expectations of it becoming one of the largest in Europe once production of EV batteries begins in 2026.

The factory is located on a 620-acre site called Gravity, which is a smart technology campus built on the grounds of a former Royal Ordnance factory. The site had a significant role during the Second World War, producing RDX explosives and contributing surplus electricity to local power stations. The scale and infrastructure of Gravity draw parallels to the old ordnance plant and are anticipated to contribute significantly to the local economy.

The MP for Bridgwater and West Somerset, Ian Liddell-Grainger, has expressed optimism about the impact of Gravity, stating that the gigafactory alone will create up to 4000 jobs and generate additional employment opportunities within the supply chain. He believes that the area’s future is promising, especially with other major projects like Hinkley Point C power station construction and the opening of new facilities by companies like Morrisons and logistics firms.

However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact of the new battery plant on the local landscape. Some fear that it may attract skilled workers from outside the region, leading to labor shortages for local employers and driving up rents and property prices. On the other hand, there is hope that the project will create broader opportunities and elevate regional skill and pay levels. To gain insights into the community’s perspective, Autocar conducted interviews with locals and businesses in the area.

Gravity Business Park render

VauxhallUk

New Vauxhall Movano Sets New Standards in Electric, Innovation, and Efficiency

  • Powerful: Electric motor with 200 kW/270 PS and 400 Nm torque
  • Energized: 110 kWh battery, 261 mile range (WLTP), 150 kW fast charging
  • Advanced: Assistance systems enable level two automated driving
  • Ergonomic: New cockpit with up to 10-inch color touchscreens
  • New front and rear design
  • Diverse: 25 versions, up to 17m3 cargo volume and two tonnes payload
  • Practical: Keyless Entry & Go, inductive smartphone charging, ‘Eat & Work’ bench seat
  • New Movano Electric benefits from £12,350 price reduction compared to current model
  • Vauxhall is the UK’s number one electric van brand and one of few brands to already offer a fully electric variant across its entire LCV line-up

The new Vauxhall Movano is ready for the heavy duties of working life. With its diverse range of body styles, up to 17m3 of cargo volume and a payload of up to two tonnes, the largest light commercial vehicle (LCV) from the British brand has always been impressive.

The new Movano retains all of its class-leading qualities and introduces new ones, such as advanced driver assistance systems that enable level 2 automated driving for the first time. Along with the locally emissions-free new Movano Electric, Vauxhall continues its electrification strategy with higher power and a longer driving range. The new electric transporter is powered by an especially strong electric motor with 200 kW/270 PS and 400 Newton meters of torque. Thanks to the new 110 kWh battery, it can cover up to 261 miles without a charging stop, making it a capable, reliable partner, even on longer journeys. Additional versatility is provided by the new optional 230V dashboard socket that enables electrical devices to be powered or recharged.

In the interior, the focus is on connectivity, ergonomics, and comfort. The redesigned cockpit offers infotainment systems with up to 10-inch color touchscreens. Wireless smartphone charging is possible, as is keyless entry and start. An optional versatile ‘Eat & Work’ bench seat can also be used as a work surface. The Movano underlines its new, modern, and future-oriented character when viewed from the outside, featuring a refreshed design at the front and rear that is typical of the brand, as well as optional LED headlights.

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “The new Vauxhall Movano is the perfect addition to the fleet and can master heavy duties. The new Movano Electric demands no compromises, offering even more power and a longer driving range than before. In addition, the new Movano is available with level 2 automated driving, a real highlight in this segment. With strengths such as these, the new Movano makes fleets future-proof.”

New Movano Electric: Up to 261 miles of range (WLTP1) and 150 kW fast charging

The new Vauxhall Movano offers the appropriate drivetrain for every user-profile. As the locally emissions-free Movano Electric it sets standards, from the motor to the battery. While the electric motor in the Movano previously had an output of 90 kW/122PS, the new one now produces 200 kW/270PS and 400 Newton meters of torque. The driving range has been improved to up to 261 miles (WLTP) with the new 110 kWh battery. Movano Electric drivers can therefore travel up 105 miles further than before on one charge of the battery.

Depending on preferences, drivers can choose from three driving modes to make optimal use of the performance and range: Normal, Eco, and Power. Drivers can also set four levels of recuperation under braking using paddles behind the steering wheel.

The new Movano Electric is equipped as standard with a three-phase 11 kW onboard charger for AC charging. It is also the first Vauxhall to offer the option of charging with up to 150 kW DC. At a public fast charging station, it only takes 55 minutes to recharge to 80% of the battery capacity.

Additional practicality is provided by the new, optional 230V socket. It helps to easily charge electric devices such as laptops, electric tool batteries, tablets and other low power appliances that require electricity up to 150 Watts. The socket is positioned conveniently on the dashboard in a central place and is easily accessible for front seat occupants.

Class-leading choice: Battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell or diesel

The new Vauxhall Movano also plays a pioneering role with another drivetrain alternative: in 2024, Vauxhall’s largest LCV will be available for the first time as the Movano HYDROGEN for those who want to travel long distances locally emissions-free and also need to refuel quickly. The innovative hydrogen fuel cell vehicle will offer a range of up to 311 miles (WLTP) and can be refueled with hydrogen in only around five minutes. Orders for HYDROGEN versions will open in Q4 of next year, with customer deliveries expected in early 2025.

A wide range of highly efficient turbo-diesel units completes the drivetrain line-up. The engines offer outputs from 103 kW/140 PS to 132 kW/180 PS and – depending on the version – can be combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Together with aerodynamic improvements to the body, the drivetrains reduce fuel consumption by up to nine per cent compared to the previous engines, which also makes the Movano a top player in the segment in terms of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

Pioneer: New assistance systems enable level 2 automated driving

The new Movano also displays pioneering achievements among the numerous driver assistance systems. The electric power steering automatically adjusts the assistance to the speed of the vehicle. This increases driving comfort at higher speeds and makes maneuvering in the city more comfortable. The electric parking brake is activated via a switch on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

In addition to traffic sign recognition, forward collision alert with emergency braking and side blind-spot alert, there are now new systems such as drowsiness alert, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control with “Stop & Go” function, 360-degree parking sensors, parking assist, and a digital rearview mirror that further improves all-round visibility. A total of 22 assistance systems and electronic helpers make driving and maneuvering easier.

The combination of adaptive cruise control with “Stop & Go” function, lane keep assist and traffic jam assist enables the Movano to steer, brake, and accelerate itself at speeds up to 18mph – for example in slow traffic – provided that the driver’s hands remain on the steering wheel. This means that automated driving at level two is possible with the new Movano for the first time in its successful career.

Connected, organized, versatile: New state-of-the-art Movano cockpit

Movano drivers can now work in a state-of-the-art, versatile and at the same time comfortable environment. The cockpit of Vauxhall’s largest LCV has been comprehensively redesigned, making it more ergonomic and, above all, more connected. As standard on Electric versions and as an option on diesel versions, the most important information can now be displayed in a fully digital, configurable seven-inch color driver information center. A 3D map from the navigation system can also be displayed there.

The new infotainment and navigation system can be easily operated via the 10-inch color touchscreen located centrally at the top of the center console. Compatible smartphones connect wirelessly to the infotainment system via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation is possible using TomTom® navigation maps in 3D. The most important functions can be controlled via natural speech recognition. Particularly practical for delivery services and professionals who often have to use a mobile phone at work is a shelf in the center console for charging smartphones inductively.

Versatility is a highlight of the new Movano, not only in the variety of variants and the range of cargo-carrying options, but also in the interior. The optional ‘Eat & Work’ bench-seat turns the cockpit into an ergonomic control center. In just a few simple steps, the seat next to the driver can be transformed into a movable, practical work surface, e.g. for a laptop, turning the Movano into a mobile office. Alternatively, the seat can be converted into a small table with a cup holder – ideal when the time comes for a short break. And with the keyless locking and starting system (‘Keyless Entry & Go’), the driver no longer even needs to take the key out of his pocket to open, start or lock the Movano.

Ready for everything: Unrivaled variety of body style options

The new Movano also scores points with its wide range of body styles. Three vehicle lengths, two wheelbases, and three heights, as well as panel van, chassis Doublecab, platform, and back to back versions allow countless configuration options to suit the respective user-profile.

At the same time, Vauxhall’s largest LCV makes no compromises in terms of payload or cargo volume. The Movano Electric can carry a payload of up to 1,385 kg, and the diesel version can carry up to two tonnes. Thanks to the practical underbody location of the battery, the cargo volume of up to 17m3 is fully retained. The Movano Electric is also suitable for numerous conversions. The new Movano, Movano Electric and, in the future, the Movano HYDROGEN, will become ideal, highly efficient and resource-saving partners for heavy duties.

Prices for the New Movano (L2H2 Panel Van) start at £32,025 (exc. VAT), while the Movano Electric (L3H2 Panel Van) will be available from £50,385 (exc. VAT) – a saving of £12,350 compared to the outgoing model, despite the additional benefits of the new electric powertrain, upgraded interior and new advanced driver assist systems.

Sales of the New Movano and Movano Electric are scheduled to start by the end of this year, with full specification and pricing details for the full line-up to be announced close to when orders open.

 

FiatUk

Millions of drivers willing to park nearly one mile from chosen destination to avoid parallel parking; half admit to Parallel-o-phobia

  • On average, drivers are willing to park almost one mile away – or a 20 minute walk – from their destination to avoid parallel parking
  • TV personality Jamie Laing says he’ll avoid parallel parking ‘at all costs’ as nearly half (44%) of motorists admit to being fearful of the parking manoeuvre
  • Men twice as confident at parallel parking compared to women
  • UK’s best and worst regions for parallel parking revealed: Yorkshire and Humber top the list, Londoners come last
  • In total, Brits fork out over £1.5 billion due to parking prangs
  • FIAT partners with Driving School TV to launch the Parallel Parking Guide, featuring Jamie Laing, [https://www.fiat.co.uk/news/parallel-parking] to help drivers master the skill

London, 26 September 2023: Millions of motorists get so flustered at the prospect of parallel parking they’d rather park nearly a mile away from their chosen destination than attempt the manoeuvre.

Dubbed ‘parallelophobia’, almost half of drivers (44%) say they are fearful of parallel parking.

Those who tend to steer clear include TV star and learner driver Jamie Laing, who admits he will avoid attempting a parallel park ‘at all costs’.

A survey of 2,000 motorists, commissioned by FIAT, has lifted the lid on how Brits feel about the dreaded parking procedure and uncovered the financial impact of poor parking skills.

On average, drivers spend £158 on repairs over their lifetime thanks to parking gone wrong, equating to a staggering £1.5 billion*.

The leading reasons Brits fear parallel parking include blocking the road and keeping other drivers waiting (40%), worrying about getting too close to and damaging other cars (37%),  fear of being embarrassed and pressured by people watching (36%), worrying about taking too long to park (30%) and not understanding the yellow lines (23%).

The research also found that on average, drivers are willing to park 0.8 miles away (a 20 minute walk) so they don’t have to parallel park.

Given the troubles motorists seem to face with parallel parking, FIAT has partnered with Driving School TV – a popular YouTube channel fronted by qualified driving instructor Francis Noakes, to launch the Fiat Parallel Parking Guide[SL1] .

As part of the guide, FIAT recruited celebrity Jamie Laing to face ‘parallelophobia’ head-on in an all-electric FIAT 500e, as he was taught how to parallel park. Jamie Laing also attempted the world record for the tightest parallel park, previously achieved in a FIAT 500, at just 7.5cm longer than the length of the car.

“Learning to drive has been like navigating through a maze of frustration, and parallel parking? Don’t even get me started. It’s my least favourite manoeuvre to do.  It makes my palms sweat. I swear

whenever I attempt one my car’s magnetically drawn to the kerb. It’s a skill I’ve just never quite mastered and I will avoid it at all costs.

“I stopped learning to drive a little while ago but after finally passing my theory test having booked around 70 tests, and having to renew my provisional licence as it had expired after 10 years, I’m back learning to drive in a Fiat 500 electric with Francis Noakes from Driving School TV. This guy has already shown me some secret magic trick that suddenly made parallel parking easier and, dare I say, fun to learn – perhaps it’s that the 500e is small and compact to park. He also unofficially helped me match a world record, sort of.

FIAT’s research also revealed drivers spend an average of four and a half hours a year attempting to parallel park** – equating to eight days of their life***.

Parallel parking makes 45% of Brits feel stressed, while 41% have relied on a stranger to help them do it. 67% have driven past a potential space rather than attempt the idea of a parallel park once or multiple times. On average, drivers will attempt a parallel park four times before parking successfully.

Men were twice as confident (32% men very confident vs 16% women very confident), yet there appeared to be very little difference in actual competence with men taking equally as long to complete a parallel park as women (approx. 1.5 minutes).

For those that do manage to parallel park successfully, 31% leave feeling smug, 30% admire their work, 18% brag about it on social media and 17% even do a happy dance.

The FIAT Parallel Parking Index also determined the regions that struggle the most and least with the parallel park. FIAT scored drivers by region on the following factors; average distance from destination drivers are willing to park, average time taken to successfully complete a parallel park, percentage of drivers that are confident, fearful and stressed about the parking manoeuvre, as well as how much money has been spent on fixing their cars as a result of a parallel parking shunt.

The most competent parallel parkers were drivers from the North East. While drivers from London, Scotland and the North West occupied the bottom three spots.

Most notably, Londoners were open to parking a staggering 1.2 miles away from their destination – the equivalent distance of walking between the London Eye and Buckingham Palace: around a 24-minute journey.

On the flip side, drivers from Yorkshire and the Humber weren’t willing to park any further than 0.4 miles (less than 10 minute walk) from their intended destination.

Meanwhile, Londoners have forked out £207 on parking prangs, while those in Yorkshire and the Humber have spent nearly £100 less (£129.50) on average.

AVERAGE DISTANCE FROM DESTINATION DRIVERS ARE WILLING TO PARK – MILES (WALKING TIME)

AVERAGE TIME TAKEN TO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE A PARALLEL PARK (MINUTES)

AVERAGE OF MOST NUMBER OF TIMES ITS TAKEN TO SUCCESSFULLY PARALLEL PARK

PERCENTAGE OF DRIVERS THAT ARE CONFIDENT OR VERY CONFIDENT PARALLEL PARKING

PERCENTAGE OF DRIVERS FEARFUL OF PARALLEL PARKING (STRONGLY AGREE / SOMEWHAT AGREE)

PERCENTAGE OF DRIVERS STRESSED OF PARALLEL PARKING (STRONGLY AGREE / SOMEWHAT AGREE)

TOTAL SCORE

(LOW = MOST COMPETENT, HIGH = LEAST COMPETENT)

Yorkshire and the Humber

0.4 (8 minutes)

1.1

3.2

63%

36

38

6.2

North East

0.5 (10 minutes)

1.2

3.3

55%

31

31

5.9

Northern Ireland

0.7 (14 minutes)

1.3

3.4

50%

38

38

6.6

South East

0.7 (14 minutes)

1.1

3.6

55%

40

43

6.8

East Midlands

0.5 (10 minutes)

1.5

3.5

71%

48

48

7.6

West Midlands

1.1 (22 minutes)

1.9

5.1

35%

28

29

7.3

South West

0.9 (18 minutes)

1.7

4.7

57%

33

34

7.5

North West

0.8 (16 minutes)

1.4

3.6

68%

56

59

8.4

East Anglia

0.6 (12 minutes)

1.4

3.6

53%

43

44

7.0

Scotland

0.8 (16 minutes)

1.1

4.7

69%

55

60

8.5

Wales

0.9 (18 minutes)

1.8

3.9

55%

46

48

8.1

London

1.2 (24 minutes)

1.9

4.6

63%

50

53

9.3

Damien Dally, FIAT UK Managing Director, said: “It’s a well-known fact that cars have grown in size in recent years, which can only add to the additional stress of parallel parking caused by things like fear of holding up traffic, or bumping into and damaging another car.

 

“The all-electric Fiat 500e is the ultimate city car, having won countless industry awards. It’s the perfect compact car to get around and park in crowded cities or busy urban environments, alleviating the fears of tricky manoeuvres for drivers.

 

“In addition, the 500e is packed full of technology that helps drivers park more easily, from park assist, to blind-spot monitoring and rear-view camera. But not every driver is able to benefit from the size and capabilities of a 500e when it comes to parking, which is why we’re hoping our parking guide will help to reduce ‘parallelophobia’ impacting millions of Brits.”

FIAT recently launched a new E-Grant, where buyers can receive £3,000 towards an all-electric 500e model. For more information on the all-electric Fiat 500e, visit here.www.fiat.co.uk/500-electric/all-electric-500-hatchback  

ENDS

 

 

 

Notes to Editors

 

*Average amount spent on fixing cars after hitting other cars while parking is £158.10

£158.10*((34,292,000 (UK car drivers (source GWI))/100)*29 – percentage who have hit another car while parking)) = £1,572,253,908

**Average amount of times people park a week (3.3)*How much time spent per parallel park (1.5 minutes)*52= 257.4 minutes / 4.29 hours

***Based on driving from the age of 17 to 67

The All Electric FIAT 500e is available from £25,195 (inc £3,000 e-Grant). All Electric FIAT 500e Convertible from £31,195 (inc £3,000 e-Grant)

Contact: fiat@performancecomms.com