Petrol Ped is a dedicated automotive channel renowned for its in-depth car reviews, coverage of launch events, and exclusive press drives. The channel delves into a wide array of vehicles, from high-performance electric cars to classic models with modern powerplants, offering viewers a comprehensive look at automotive innovation and driving experiences. Petrol Ped also provides engaging event coverage, bringing the excitement of gatherings like Goodwood directly to its audience.
The Reality of Living With an EV That Nobody Talks About
The reviewer highlights a critical, often overlooked aspect of EV ownership: home charging accessibility. While acknowledging the Mustang Mach-E's appeal and the reviewer's personal satisfaction with its "Extended Range" and a corrected predicted range of 333 miles, the core message emphasizes th...
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The Truth About Why We Are Being Forced Into EVs...It's About to Go Horribly Wrong
The reviewer critically examines the mandated shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), attributing the push not to manufacturers' desires but to st... moreringent EU and UK government policies and mandates. The video highlights the increasing percentage targets for EV production, with significant fines for non-compliance. While acknowledging the benefits of EVs for specific use cases (e.g., home charging, short commutes), the reviewer points out significant barriers for mass adoption, including high purchase prices, lack of off-street parking for many, and concerningly high depreciation rates for private buyers. The video suggests that these pressures could lead to financial distress for established manufacturers, potentially resulting in bankruptcies or acquisitions, especially with the rise of competitive Chinese EV brands. The reviewer advocates for a more nuanced approach, questioning the "all-EV only" mandate and proposing that hybrid, hydrogen, and synthetic fuels should also be part of the future propulsion mix, arguing that the current policy is too narrowly focused and may have unintended negative consequences for the automotive industry and consumers. less
Epic 630hp Porsche Macan Turbo - Launch Control and Very Wet Hill Run at Goodwood
The Petrol Ped channel delivers an exhilarating, albeit brief, first drive of the all-new 630hp electric Porsche Macan Turbo at the Goodwood Festival ... moreof Speed. Despite the challenging wet conditions and a limited track distance, the reviewer highlights the Macan Turbo's immense performance, particularly its potent launch control and impressive grip, even on a slippery hill climb. The vehicle's styling, interior design featuring a dual-screen setup, and practical aspects like boot space are also praised. While a full range test or in-depth handling assessment wasn't possible, the initial impression is overwhelmingly positive, with the Macan Turbo described as a "sensational" and "fantastic quick car." The guest appearance of Alfa Romeo's Chief Designer, Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos, adds an interesting perspective, with him echoing the sentiment of the Macan Turbo being "very quick" and "a lot of fun." less
Alfa Romeo Junior - Best Handling Alfa In Years And It's An EV | First Drive | 4K
The Alfa Romeo Junior, in its top-spec 280hp Veloce trim, has been put through its paces at the Balocco Proving Grounds, and the verdict is overwhelmi... morengly positive regarding its handling dynamics. Despite initial concerns about its shared Stellantis platform, the reviewer asserts that the Junior drives distinctly like an Alfa Romeo, offering exceptional steering feel, ride quality, and a surprisingly engaging experience on both a handling circuit and a racetrack. The reviewer highlights the effectiveness of the Torsen limited-slip differential and the chassis tuning, which allows for a playful, rotating rear end and sharp front-end response. The driving position and supportive seats are also praised. While acknowledging the lack of traditional ICE sound and the availability of lower-power variants, the reviewer concludes that the Junior is one of the best-handling EVs and Alfa Romeos in decades, delivering on its promise of driving engagement even in an electric package. less
First Look - Alpine A290 - Finally an EV About Lightweight, Handling and Style!
The Alpine A290 represents a significant step up from its Renault 5 sibling, focusing on lightweight, handling, and style. While sharing a base, Alpin... moree has engineered substantial differences, including a wider track, bespoke suspension, and brakes derived from the A110. The reviewer highlights the distinctive design elements, such as the four-light front signature and the 'swoosh' on the doors, and praises the premium interior materials, particularly on the GTS trim with its Nappa leather seats and F1-inspired steering wheel. The 'OV' button for a 10-second power boost and launch control is a notable feature. Performance figures are 220 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.7 seconds. The A290's key advantage is its weight, significantly lighter than rivals like the Mini Electric, promising agile handling. Estimated range is around 380 km (220 miles) WLTP, which is considered adequate for its intended urban and sporty driving profile. The car also offers three bespoke Michelin tire options. While pricing is unconfirmed, it's expected to be above the Renault 5, potentially around £35,000. The reviewer is highly optimistic about its driving dynamics, positioning it as a compelling, driver-focused alternative to the Mini Electric. less
First Drive - Renault Scenic E-Tech - Car of the Year 2024
The Renault Scenic E-Tech, crowned Car of the Year 2024, presents a compelling package with its innovative features and impressive practicality. The r... moreeviewer highlights the car's striking exterior styling, particularly the front-end design and aerodynamic touches like the removable aero blades which contribute to its class-leading range. Inside, the cabin is praised for its spaciousness, excellent material quality, and clever features such as the 'Solar Bay' roof (exclusive to the top trim) and the versatile folding central seat with integrated tablet/phone holders. The infotainment system, heavily integrated with Google, is lauded for its intuitive navigation and route planning, including battery preconditioning. While the reviewer notes the car's performance is more than adequate for family duties, offering a sporty feel in 'Sport' mode, the real standout is its efficiency and range, with over 370 miles WLTP and a realistic expectation of over 300 miles in real-world conditions. The reviewer found little to dislike, praising the comfortable ride, sharp steering, and the ease of customizing safety systems via a single button. The main drawback mentioned is the high price point for the top-spec model, though the overall value proposition is considered competitive within its segment. less
First Look - Kia EV3 - Kia's Best Car So Far With Class Leading Range
The Kia EV3 represents a significant move by Kia to bring its premium EV technology, previously seen in the EV9, to the mass market. The reviewer high... morelights its "edgy," "chunky," and "angular" design, which is a refreshing departure from the homogeneity seen in many modern cars. A key takeaway is the impressive WLTP range of 348 miles for the long-range model, with the reviewer estimating a real-world range of 300 miles, positioning it as a class leader. The interior is praised for its sustainability focus, utilizing recycled materials extensively, and its innovative triple-screen display with AI integration (including ChatGPT functionality, though some features are slated for Q4 2024). Practicality is also a strong point, with a generous boot space, underfloor storage, and a useful frunk for charging cables. While a full driving review is pending, the static assessment suggests the EV3 is a compelling package that could significantly impact the compact SUV segment, challenging competitors like the Volvo EX30. less
Why the Peugeot 308 SW PHEV Didn't Do It For Me
The Peugeot 308SW PHEV presents a mixed bag for the reviewer, who, despite a personal fondness for the Peugeot brand, found several aspects challengin... moreg. While praising the car's driving dynamics, smooth ride, comfortable interior, and responsive handling, particularly in sport mode, the reviewer highlights significant drawbacks. The exterior styling is deemed disjointed, failing to integrate the front and rear designs cohesively. Inside, the unique steering wheel and instrument binnacle placement, requiring the driver to look over the wheel, proved uncomfortable and difficult to position correctly for optimal visibility. The plug-in hybrid system's limited EV range (around 24-26 miles) and the absence of a battery hold mode or in-drive charging capability are major criticisms, leading to poor fuel economy once the battery is depleted. The reviewer concludes that as a PHEV, it doesn't quite meet expectations, preferring to simply use more fuel than to rely on its limited hybrid functionality. less
BYD Seal - Chinese EV That Has Established Makers Worried
The BYD Seal is presented as a compelling electric vehicle that poses a significant threat to established manufacturers. The reviewer highlights its s... moremart aesthetics, premium interior with high-quality materials, and a comfortable, spacious cabin, particularly noting the flat floor due to the cell-to-body battery integration. Performance is praised, with the RWD version offering over 300 PS and a 0-62 mph time of 5.9 seconds, while the AWD variant boosts power to 530 PS and achieves 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds. Real-world range is estimated to be around 250-300 miles, with WLTP figures slightly higher. The LFP battery technology, free of cobalt and offering good thermal management, is a key technological advantage. Positives include the competitive price point (around £45,000 for RWD), the rotating infotainment screen, and impressive build quality. Criticisms are minor, including a slightly sensitive throttle, a gear selector that can be accidentally knocked into neutral, and seats lacking sufficient side support for enthusiastic driving. The reviewer also notes the indicator stalks are reversed for those accustomed to other markets. Despite potential concerns about dealer networks, the BYD Seal is deemed a highly impressive and usable proposition. less
Mazda MX30 R-EV - The Perfect Plug-In Hybrid with a Tiny Rotary Engine - The Gateway Drug to BEV
The Mazda MX-30 R-EV is presented as a unique proposition, aiming to bridge the gap between electric vehicles and traditional internal combustion engi... morene cars. The reviewer highlights its "interesting drivetrain" which uses an electric motor for propulsion, with a small 830cc rotary engine acting solely as a generator to recharge the battery. This setup offers around 50 miles of pure EV range, with the rotary engine kicking in to extend overall range, eliminating range anxiety. The styling is described as "quirky" and "interesting," with particular attention paid to the "flexible doors" (similar to the RX8) which enhance accessibility, though the rear seat movement is noted as slow. Inside, the reviewer appreciates the absence of a large touchscreen, with primary infotainment control via a rotary dial, though Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are wired and can be clunky to use. Performance is deemed adequate for normal journeys rather than sporty, with a 0-62 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The rotary engine's operation is praised for its quietness and smoothness, with no noticeable vibration or noise when charging. The reviewer concludes that it's the "best plug-in hybrid" driven, particularly for those hesitant about full EV adoption, due to its seamless integration of electric driving with the convenience of petrol refueling. The car is priced just under £40,000 for the top-spec model. less
New Car Joins The Garage And It Is Awesome
Petrol Ped welcomes the Lotus Emira V6 Manual as his new long-term test car, replacing the Vauxhall Astra EV. The reviewer expresses immediate excitem... moreent for the Emira, highlighting its lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, 400 horsepower V6 configuration with a manual gearbox as a "sports car perfection." Initial impressions from the drive home are overwhelmingly positive, praising the intoxicating supercharger whine, the car's lightness, precise steering, and the incredibly tight, accurate gearbox. The driver-focused interior, with its prominent rev counter and driver-oriented display, is also noted. However, the reviewer acknowledges a steep learning curve for the clutch and gearbox, finding it easy to stall and requiring careful modulation. The car's price point, now around £90,000 for a launch edition, is considered high, setting significant expectations. The reviewer plans to compare it with his Porsche Boxster and explore its capabilities further over the next month. less
Astra EV Long Termer Update - This Car is Jinxed - Pothole Problems
The Vauxhall Astra EV, in its top-spec 'Ultimate' trim, offers a surprisingly pleasant long-term ownership experience, despite significant t... moreeething problems. The reviewer highlights the car's stylish design, particularly the front end and the 'cobalt blue' paintwork, and praises the comfortable and well-equipped interior, making it a relaxing place to be. Real-world range has been a strong point, with the car indicating around 250 miles on a full charge, exceeding expectations and Vauxhall's quoted figures for many. Practicality is also deemed sufficient for daily needs, including carrying dogs. However, the ownership was marred by three punctures due to severe potholes, leading to nearly four weeks off the road and a damaged wheel, which the reviewer attributes to the car's Michelin e-primacy tires not being immune to extreme road conditions. A significant critique is leveled at the shared interior controls within the Stellantis group, which the reviewer feels dilutes brand individuality. Despite this, the driving experience is described as smooth, quiet, and relaxing, with a sporty response available in 'Sport' mode, though it's not a performance-focused vehicle. The reviewer concludes that it's a good EV, especially as a hatchback alternative to SUVs, delivering on range and adequate performance for its target market, though the price point might be a concern for some. less
Why F1 Fans Should Watch Formula E - Amazing Home Race for Nissan
This video offers an insightful look into the world of Formula E, specifically focusing on Nissan's participation in the inaugural Tokyo E-Prix. ... moreThe reviewer, a self-proclaimed Formula 1 fan, highlights key differences and technological aspects of Formula E compared to F1, such as the complexity of the steering wheel controls, the absence of telemetry, and the standardized chassis. A significant takeaway is the emphasis on sustainability and the "track-to-road" development strategy employed by manufacturers like Nissan, where learnings from racing are directly applied to road car technology. The reviewer praises the close racing, strategic elements like Attack Mode, and the impressive engineering, despite acknowledging the lack of F1's auditory spectacle. The video captures the excitement of a home race for Nissan, culminating in a strong second-place finish, showcasing the team's performance and the overall appeal of Formula E as a platform for EV innovation. less
Toyota Yaris GR Sport - Sporty Style and Efficiency Combined
The Toyota Yaris GR Sport HEV presents a compelling blend of sporty aesthetics and hybrid efficiency, targeting buyers who desire the GR Yaris's ... moreaggressive styling without the performance-oriented, all-wheel-drive setup. The reviewer highlights the facelifted Yaris's improved safety systems, updated infotainment with a 12.3-inch screen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the refined hybrid powertrain delivering 130 horsepower. While acknowledging it's not a true sports car, the GR Sport is praised for its nippy city driving, comfortable ride, and engaging handling, particularly in power mode. Criticisms include tight rear-seat space and a boot that might be too small for larger items like buggies or golf clubs. The reviewer also notes the infotainment screen's orientation towards the passenger in left-hand drive configurations. Despite these points, the GR Sport is seen as a stylish, economical, and fun city car, with the reviewer suggesting its value proposition is strong, especially for those seeking the GR look in a more practical, efficient package. less
Ice Drifting with Nissan e4ORCE in Finland Had Surprising Results
This video explores the capabilities of Nissan's e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive system, primarily focusing on the Nissan X-Trail (hybrid) and the Nissan... more Ariya (full EV) in challenging icy and snowy conditions in Finland. The reviewer highlights the e-4ORCE system's impressive torque vectoring and its ability to maintain grip and control in low-traction scenarios, particularly noting its effectiveness in preventing the X-Trail from getting stuck during an axle-crossing test and its surprising agility on an ice lake. While the X-Trail is described as more playful and easier to rotate, the Ariya, despite its greater weight, also demonstrates rewarding handling when driven correctly. The reviewer praises the system for enhancing driver confidence and control, especially for less experienced drivers. The video concludes with a unique segment involving a sauna and a plunge into a frozen lake, adding an adventurous element. less
Driven - 905bhp Lotus Eletre R - The Saviour Of Lotus Or Just Wrong?
The Lotus Eletre R, a 900+ horsepower all-electric SUV, is put to the test, challenging traditional notions of the Lotus brand. While its 2.5-ton weig... moreht and electric SUV format diverge from Lotus's lightweight sports car heritage, the reviewer finds compelling arguments for its existence, particularly for the brand's long-term sustainability. The Eletre R boasts impressive performance, with a 0-62mph time of 2.9 seconds, and features advanced aerodynamics and Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities. The interior quality is praised as a significant improvement over previous Lotus models, offering a comfortable and technologically advanced cabin. However, the real-world range is a significant drawback, falling considerably short of the quoted 373 miles when driven enthusiastically, with the reviewer achieving around 254 miles. Despite this, the Eletre R's exceptional handling dynamics, particularly its agility and minimal body roll, are highlighted as retaining the core Lotus DNA, making it a surprisingly capable and engaging driver's car. The reviewer concludes that while the 'R' trim might be excessive for some, the Eletre, in general, is a well-executed EV that justifies its place in the Lotus lineup, enabling the brand to continue producing its traditional sports cars. less
First Drive - VW ID.7 - Game Changing Tech and Range Are a Match for Any Tesla
The VW ID.7 is presented as a significant contender in the electric vehicle market, aiming to rival Tesla with its advanced technology and impressive ... morerange. The reviewer highlights the car's sleek, aerodynamic styling, contributing to its low drag coefficient and efficiency. Key technological advancements include a vastly improved HMI (Human-Machine Interface) and infotainment system, which is a major step up from previous VW EVs, featuring customizable hot keys and a responsive voice assistant. A standout feature is the seamless integration of the native satnav with the charging network, effectively addressing 'charge station anxiety' by providing real-time availability and speed information, a feature the reviewer, as a Tesla owner, finds particularly exciting. The ID.7 offers substantial interior space, comparable to luxury sedans, and a comfortable, quiet ride, though the suspension is tuned more for comfort than sharp handling. The Pro match trim, with its 77 kWh battery, is quoted with a WLTP range of 384 miles, with a larger battery version expected to exceed 400 miles. While the reviewer acknowledges the need for longer-term testing to confirm real-world range, the initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive, positioning the ID.7 as a compelling and well-priced option in its segment. less
Is An EV Only Future Right? Could Dakar Give Us Hope?
The reviewer explores the viability of an all-EV future, using Audi's Dakar-winning RS Q e-tron as a case study. While acknowledging the benefits... more of EV powertrains for torque and power delivery, the video highlights range limitations as a significant hurdle for pure battery electric vehicles in demanding applications. The Audi RS Q e-tron's innovative approach, combining electric motors with a range-extending internal combustion engine acting as a generator, is presented as a potential model for future hybrid or alternative propulsion systems. The reviewer argues that lessons learned from motorsport, like those seen in Dakar and Formula E, can and should filter down to road cars, advocating for a diverse approach to vehicle propulsion rather than a singular focus on pure EVs. The piece criticizes the 'tribal' nature of current automotive discussions and encourages an open-minded exploration of various technologies, including hydrogen and e-fuels, to meet different transportation needs, particularly for heavy haulage and niche applications where EVs may not be optimal. less
Used Car Price Crash - Bad News For My Porsche Or An Opportunity For Us All?
The video explores the significant downturn in the used car market, a phenomenon impacting even traditionally strong residual value brands like Porsch... moree. The presenter questions whether this price crash is detrimental to his own Porsche or presents a buying opportunity. The discussion touches upon the impact on various manufacturers, including a notable mention of EVs experiencing a 'freefall' in prices. Specific models like the M2 and MC20 are discussed in the context of current market values, with a brief acknowledgment that even Ferrari is not immune to these trends. The presenter also muses about the possibility of trading up to a Spyder or GT4. Overall, the video serves as an analysis of market shifts and their implications for car owners and potential buyers. less
Is the New Kia Niro EV as Good as the Old E Niro?
The reviewer compares the new Kia Niro EV to its predecessor, the e-Niro, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses after a week of extensive driving.... more While acknowledging the new model's improved styling, enhanced interior features, and strong performance with its 150 kW motor, the reviewer expresses concern over the significant price increase, with the top-spec model reaching around £44,000. This price point, they argue, puts it in direct competition with potentially cheaper Chinese EVs. Real-world range is also a point of contention; the reviewer observed a full charge showing just over 200 miles in 6-8°C weather, estimating 230-250 miles in summer and around 200 miles in winter, which might be a challenge for some. Despite these concerns, the reviewer praises the car's practicality, boot space, comfortable rear seats, and the clever dual-function display. The driving experience is described as nippy and fun, with good handling for its weight. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that the Niro EV is a competent package, offering excellent build quality and Kia's impressive 7-year warranty, making it a desirable option in the mid-size family EV segment, provided the higher price is justifiable. less
The Ultimate EV Debate: PHEV vs BEV
This video presents a compelling debate between Philippa Forrester, an EV advocate, and Petrol Ped, a proponent of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (P... moreHEVs). The discussion centers on the practicalities and benefits of each technology, using a Kia Niro EV and a Kia Sportage PHEV as examples. Forrester champions Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), highlighting their clean efficiency, quiet operation, and the rapidly improving battery technology and charging infrastructure. She argues that while planning is required, the long-term environmental benefits and driving experience of EVs outweigh the perceived inconveniences, especially with home charging negating the need for public charging for many users. Ped, conversely, positions PHEVs as the ideal 'gateway drug' to EVs, offering the best of both worlds. He emphasizes their flexibility for short EV-only commutes and long-distance travel without range anxiety, and their practicality for those without dedicated home charging. The review acknowledges that PHEVs are a compromise, carrying extra weight, but argues this compromise is beneficial for mass adoption. The primary con for EVs is identified as their current prohibitive price point, while PHEVs are praised for their ease of transition and practicality for a wider audience. less
Kia EV9 First Drive - Will Kia's Flagship 6/7 Seat EV Win Over Range Rover Customers?!
The Kia EV9 is presented as a bold, boundary-pushing flagship electric SUV, aiming to attract customers from premium brands like Range Rover. The revi... moreewer praises its edgy, futuristic design and the premium feel of its interior, noting the high-quality materials and eco-friendly choices. Driving dynamics are surprisingly agile for a large vehicle, with Sport mode offering impressive acceleration and handling, aided by advanced systems like torque vectoring and crosswind assistance. The swivel seats in the six-seat configuration are highlighted as a unique and practical feature for family use. However, criticisms include a bulky steering wheel and an awkwardly placed central climate control screen. Real-world range is estimated to be around 250-275 miles in cold conditions, lower than the quoted figures. Despite the high price point (starting at £75,500 for the GT-Line S), the EV9 is positioned as a compelling alternative in a segment with few electric options, offering significant financial benefits for company car users. less
Electric Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer: Finally An EV That's Not An SUV
The Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer is lauded as a refreshing departure from the SUV-dominated EV market, offering a practical estate car format that the... more reviewer believes is inherently more efficient for electric powertrains. The design is praised for its handsome looks, particularly the new Vauxhall 'visor' front end, and the practicality of the estate format is highlighted with generous boot space figures (515L seats up, 1553L seats down). Interior comfort and usability are also noted positively, with a good amount of passenger room, a premium feel, and a sensible layout of physical buttons for controls. The reviewer is impressed by the claimed efficiency of 4.1 miles per kWh and the 258-mile WLTP range, though a longer test would be needed to confirm real-world figures. Performance in Eco, Normal, and Sport modes is described as adequate, with good responsiveness in the latter two. The car also features useful tech like a head-up display and Level 2 autonomous driving aids. The primary positive takeaway is the existence of a practical, non-SUV electric estate car, which Vauxhall is commended for delivering. The reviewer expresses a strong preference for this format over SUVs for practicality and aerodynamic efficiency. less
First Drive - New Vauxhall Corsa Electric
The reviewer revisits the Vauxhall brand with the new Corsa Electric, expressing a nostalgic fondness for older Vauxhall models while acknowledging a ... morerecent decline in the brand's appeal. The Corsa Electric is presented as a significant contender in the B-segment, offering an affordable EV option. The "Ultimate" trim is highlighted for its appealing styling, particularly the blacked-out trim and modern design language. Inside, the cabin is found to be comfortable with good driving ergonomics and a decent infotainment system. On the road, the Corsa Electric is praised for its quiet and compliant ride, smooth power delivery, and the convenience of one-pedal driving. While not a performance car, it offers "punchy" acceleration in Sport mode and a confidence-inspiring feel. The reviewer notes Vauxhall's efforts to make the EV more attainable through finance options. Overall, the Corsa Electric is deemed an interesting, compelling, and fun package that has successfully reignited the reviewer's interest in the Vauxhall brand. less
All New Toyota C-HR - A Concept Car for the Road
The second-generation Toyota C-HR aims to replicate the success of its predecessor with a bold, concept-car-like design and an emphasis on a fun, quir... moreky driving experience. The reviewer highlights its standout styling, particularly the two-tone paintwork, and praises the comfortable, technologically advanced interior featuring sustainable materials. While the hybrid drivetrain is commended for its smoothness and efficiency in urban driving, the reviewer notes the 2.0L model's tendency to rev high in sport mode, a characteristic expected to be less pronounced in the more popular 1.8L version. The innovative digital rearview mirror is singled out as a technological misstep, deemed unnecessary and disorienting. Despite this, the C-HR is deemed a competent and enjoyable compact SUV, especially for everyday use and spirited driving on good roads. The plug-in hybrid variant is anticipated to be the most compelling option due to its extended EV range. less