#BrownCarGuy – News, Views & Reviews!
It’s been quite a few years since Imthishan Giado and I last sat down for a good, old-fashioned chat. As former business partners and good friends, we’ve shared countless memories during our time at Car Middle East and Motoring Middle East. Yesterday, we found ourselves in a sunny corner of London, reminiscing about the good old days and reflecting on how the car culture in the UAE has evolved over the years over a cup of coffee.
Well, it’s looking more and more like Keir Starmer and the Labour Party will be taking the reins come the next election in July 2024. Even the Conservatives seem to have thrown in the towel, practically conceding defeat already. The Tories are doing so poorly that there’s chatter about them not even being the main opposition. Can you imagine? But let’s leave that circus aside and get down to what really matters: what does all this mean for us motorists?
Breaking news! The EU is set to impose hefty tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), with rates potentially reaching up to 48%. This dramatic move combines new tariffs with existing ones and is set to take effect from the 4th of July. This decision stems from the EU’s ongoing concerns over heavy subsidies provided by the Chinese government to its EV manufacturers, which is seen as giving them an unfair advantage in the global market.
Ever heard the saying, “Change is the only constant”? Well, hop into the driver’s seat of the new MG3 Hybrid with me, and let’s take a ride through the evolution of, not just this classic British brand, but automotive technology in general and our reaction to it, particularly those of us who’ve been around a while! This ride-along could force you to ponder the idea that embracing new technology is the secret to staying young and vibrant. Buckle up!
I thought I was done talking about ULEZ, but here we are again. The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London has popped back into the news, and for good reason. With the UK general election just around the corner, electioneering is in full swing, and both major parties are making big promises. But the latest from the Conservatives has really caught my attention – and not in a good way.
In today’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape, new business models are emerging that could significantly impact our driving experience. One such development is the rise of in-car subscription services, where manufacturers like BMW are considering charging extra for features that were once standard. But how do these subscriptions compare to pay-per-mile road user charges in terms of restricting our driving freedom? During a recent press drive of the new Nissan Qashqai in Portugal, my friend and fellow motoring journalist Massimo Pini and I got deep into this controversial topic. Our conversation highlighted the growing concerns among car owners regarding these new charges. You can watch the video, or read the full article below.
Are car makers really giving up on EVs and redirecting their efforts back to ICE (internal combustion engines)? There’s a lot of buzz and confusion over a recent announcement by Japanese automotive giants Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda confirming their joint commitment to continue developing ICE technology. But what does this mean for the future of mobility, and why are these manufacturers investing in internal combustion engines now?
I didn’t want to make this video. I hoped I wouldn’t need to. But several people have asked for my response to the potentially catastrophic London 2nd May 2024 Mayoral election result for any Londoners that own and drive cars. What do I think of what happened? What do have to say about it? It’s in this video. I’ll say it now and that will be the end of it. The fight for motorists’ rights failed and failed miserably. This is democracy. The results have to be accepted.
It’s crunch time; make or break; the final countdown; zero hour; D-Day; moment of truth; the last stand… make no mistake, hold no illusions, be in no doubt – this is it.
The elections for the London Mayor happen this week on Thursday 2nd May 2024. And incumbent, Sadiq Khan is vying for an unprecedented third term in office as the most powerful man in London – some would argue, the most powerful person in the nation – he who controls the capital, controls the country?
Continue reading “It’s Khan or Your Car – You Choose, You Decide!”
With the election just days away, I discuss the potential changes that could affect motorists not just in London, but nationwide. From car taxes to ULEZ expansions, I explain why this election could serve as a critical referendum on the freedom to own and drive cars. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a daily commuter, or simply interested in the intersection of politics and car ownership, this video is a must-watch as we approach election day.
