VW Reportedly Put a Price on the Table for GM’s Opel after Hearing Rumors about Hyundai’s Interest

German monthly publication ‘Manager Magazin’ reported in its latest issue that the Volkswagen Group has a far deeper interest in Opel than originally thought.

Citing unnamed sources close to the automaker, the financial magazine said that Volkswagen gave General Motors a rough estimate of what it is willing to pay for Opel after the German company heard rumors about Hyundai’s alleged interest in the European brand.

Read more »

2012 Hyundai Sonata Receives its First Facelift in South Korea

Hyundai has blessed the South Korean market version of its Sonata mid-size sedan with its very first mild facelift. Just don’t blink because you may very well miss it.

The light cosmetic surgery on the outside brings a revamped front grille with a little bit less chrome on top and around the sides, plus new LED taillights at the back, reshaped mirror casings and a fresh choice of alloy wheel designs including a set of 18-inch multispoke rims.

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The Truth About the Relationship Between Hyundai and Kia

Hyundai and Kia have a strange, symbiotic relationship. They share factories, parts as well as engineering knowhow and product testing duties. And yet they remain separate entities with their own marketing, distribution and styling departments.

Michael Sprague, Kia’s VP for marketing and communication describes their relationships to the New York Times likes this:

“Kia Motors America operates as a completely separate sales, marketing and distribution organization in the United States. [Hyundai and Kia share engineering efficiencies] similar in many ways to other global automakers.”

Read more »

GM Agrees to Pay Korean Workers a Record Bonus of $6,140 Each and Increase Basic Salaries by 4.7%!

The South Korean division of General Motors has agreed to a record bonus payment for its employees following a partial strike last week. This was the first organized union strike to hit GM Korea in three years and it led to a production loss of 9,700 units.

The agreement between GM Korea and the union includes a raise of basic salaries by 4.7% and, more importantly, a $6,140 (6.5 million won) bonus to each worker.

Read more »

New Gen Y Buyer Survey Spells Trouble for Detroit

Auto pricing website TrueCar studied the car buying behaviour of four million Gen Y (18 to 27 year-old) over a twenty-four month period and here’s what they found.

Scion took the crown for top brand, with 37.4% of the market and for top model (the tC coupe), with 21.2%, while second place went to Mitsubishi (32.1%) and their Lancer sedan (20.3%).

Mazda was the third most visited brand for Gen Y buyers, though only 17th in terms of model. The top four vehicle choices were Japanese, with a German in seventh place and a South Korean in ninth.

Read more »

Toyota and Honda want to Win Back Sales Share from Hyundai Sonata with New Models

Not too long ago, if someone told you that a South Korean model would challenge America’s best selling sedan, the Toyota Camry, you would have probably laughed in his or her face.

Needless to say, a lot has changed over the past few years with Hyundai and in particular its latest Sonata sedan, not only challenging, but this past May even surpassing the Camry in U.S. sales for the first time in history.

Of course, the fact that Toyota’s production capabilities were seriously affected by the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster in Japan, played a significant role in Hyundai’s accomplishment.

Read more »

Black Card Holders Just as Likely to own a Hyundai as a Bentley or an Audi

If you are one of American Express’ very special customers, and have US$16.3 million in assets and an annual household income of around US$1.3 million, you may be granted the privilege of one of their black Centurion Cards.

Simon Cowell has one, as does Kanye West, Denzel Washington and Lindsay Lohan. Interestingly, and of more concern to readers of this blog, you might also be the proud owner of a Hyundai.

During the course of a presentation at the South Korean automaker’s Ann Arbor engineering and research centre, Hyundai’s U.S. Chief John Krafcik revealed that some 6% of “Black Card” holders own a Hyundai – a percentage shared with those who own Bentleys and Audis.

Read more »

Argentina Agrees to Allow Hyundai and Kia Imports for Peanuts – Literally…

Argentina’s exports for imports saga continues, with South Korean carmaker Hyundai agreeing to export peanuts, wine, biodiesel and soy flour to offset the US$91 million (€64 million) it added to Argentina’s growing trade deficit in 2010. Partner company / subsidiary Kia has agreed export white goods and plastics for their contribution.

The South American nation’s US$6 billion (€4.19 billion) trade deficit has already led to one Porsche distributor agreeing to export wine and olive products, while similar deals have been struck with carmakers Chery, GM, Peugeot-Citroen, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Fiat and Ford.

Read more »

Hyundai unveils i40 saloon

Hyundai has taken the wraps off its i40 mid-size saloon. The new model’s debut, at the Barcelona Motor Show, follows the unveiling of the i40 estate at Geneva back in March.

Hyundai i40. Scroll down for more images.

Styled and engineered by Hyundai at its facility in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the i40 develops the ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language first seen on the ix-onic concept car. This is meant to endow the car with ‘flowing lines inspired by nature which combine to create a dynamic exterior’, although the result has ended up bearing more than a passing resemblance to the Ford Mondeo.



There’ll be a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines, with the latter unsurprisingly expected to account for around two-thirds of sales in Europe. As per normal nowadays, they come with various devices designed to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions such as stop-start, an intelligent alternator and low rolling resistance tyres.

Hyundai i40 saloon engine specifications
1.6 litre 135 PS Petrol
Type	Gamma GDI, four-cylinder, 16-valve with MLA
Capacity	1,591 cc
Power	133 bhp (99 kW / 135 PS) @ 6,300 rpm
Torque	164 Nm (120 lb/ft) @ 4,850 rpm
Emissions	149 g/km (140 g/km with stop-start)
Fuel consumption	47.0 mpg (6.0 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	11.6 secs
Top speed	121 mph (195 km/h)
2.0 litre 177 PS Petrol
Type	Nu GDI, four-cylinder, 16-valve with HLA & Swing ARM
Capacity	1,999 cc
Power	174 bhp (130 kW / 177 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque	208 Nm (153 lb/ft) @ 4,700 rpm
Emissions	156 g/km
Fuel consumption	41.5 mpg (6.8 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	9.7 secs
Top speed	130 mph (210 km/h)
1.7 litre 115 PS Diesel
Type	U-II, DOHC, four-cylinder, 16-valve with HLA
Capacity	1,685 cc
Power	113 bhp (85 kW / 115 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque	260 Nm (191 lb/ft) @ 1,250-2,750 rpm
Emissions	122 g/km (113 g/km with stop-start)
Fuel consumption	65.6 mpg (4.3 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	12.9 secs
Top speed	118 mph (190 km/h)
1.7 litre 136 PS Diesel
Type	U-II, DOHC, four-cylinder, 16-valve with HLA
Capacity	1,685 cc
Power	134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque	325 Nm (239 lb/ft) @ 2,000-2,500 rpm
Emissions	124 g/km (119 g/km with stop-start)
Fuel consumption	62.7 mpg (4.5 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	10.6 secs
Top speed	123 mph (198 km/h)
All figures are manufacturer’s estimates; final figures to be confirmed at launch.

With sales not due to begin until the fourth quarter of 2011, exact specifications and prices have yet to be confirmed. However, Hyundai is promising that plenty of kit will be available including Bluetooth, parking assistance, a rear view camera, full-screen navigation and a lane departure warning system.



One inescapable issue for the UK market is that the i40 is a saloon, rather than a hatchback. Whether Hyundai’s decision to opt for that body style hurts sales remains to be seen.

Hyundai unveils i40 saloon

Hyundai has taken the wraps off its i40 mid-size saloon. The new model’s debut, at the Barcelona Motor Show, follows the unveiling of the i40 estate at Geneva back in March.

Hyundai i40. Scroll down for more images.

Styled and engineered by Hyundai at its facility in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the i40 develops the ‘fluidic sculpture’ design language first seen on the ix-onic concept car. This is meant to endow the car with ‘flowing lines inspired by nature which combine to create a dynamic exterior’, although the result has ended up bearing more than a passing resemblance to the Ford Mondeo.



There’ll be a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines, with the latter unsurprisingly expected to account for around two-thirds of sales in Europe. As per normal nowadays, they come with various devices designed to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions such as stop-start, an intelligent alternator and low rolling resistance tyres.

Hyundai i40 saloon engine specifications
1.6 litre 135 PS Petrol
Type	Gamma GDI, four-cylinder, 16-valve with MLA
Capacity	1,591 cc
Power	133 bhp (99 kW / 135 PS) @ 6,300 rpm
Torque	164 Nm (120 lb/ft) @ 4,850 rpm
Emissions	149 g/km (140 g/km with stop-start)
Fuel consumption	47.0 mpg (6.0 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	11.6 secs
Top speed	121 mph (195 km/h)
2.0 litre 177 PS Petrol
Type	Nu GDI, four-cylinder, 16-valve with HLA & Swing ARM
Capacity	1,999 cc
Power	174 bhp (130 kW / 177 PS) @ 6,500 rpm
Torque	208 Nm (153 lb/ft) @ 4,700 rpm
Emissions	156 g/km
Fuel consumption	41.5 mpg (6.8 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	9.7 secs
Top speed	130 mph (210 km/h)
1.7 litre 115 PS Diesel
Type	U-II, DOHC, four-cylinder, 16-valve with HLA
Capacity	1,685 cc
Power	113 bhp (85 kW / 115 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque	260 Nm (191 lb/ft) @ 1,250-2,750 rpm
Emissions	122 g/km (113 g/km with stop-start)
Fuel consumption	65.6 mpg (4.3 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	12.9 secs
Top speed	118 mph (190 km/h)
1.7 litre 136 PS Diesel
Type	U-II, DOHC, four-cylinder, 16-valve with HLA
Capacity	1,685 cc
Power	134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque	325 Nm (239 lb/ft) @ 2,000-2,500 rpm
Emissions	124 g/km (119 g/km with stop-start)
Fuel consumption	62.7 mpg (4.5 l/100km)
0-100 km/h (62 mph)	10.6 secs
Top speed	123 mph (198 km/h)
All figures are manufacturer’s estimates; final figures to be confirmed at launch.

With sales not due to begin until the fourth quarter of 2011, exact specifications and prices have yet to be confirmed. However, Hyundai is promising that plenty of kit will be available including Bluetooth, parking assistance, a rear view camera, full-screen navigation and a lane departure warning system.



One inescapable issue for the UK market is that the i40 is a saloon, rather than a hatchback. Whether Hyundai’s decision to opt for that body style hurts sales remains to be seen.

Hyundai Blue2 FCEV

Hyundai has unveiled the Blue2 Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle at the Seoul Motor Show.

Powered by hydrogen, the Blue2 (say it ‘Blue Square’ not ‘Blue Two’, apparently) is a mid-size saloon that generates 120 bhp (90 kW / 122 PS). That name is an amalgamation of ‘Blue Drive’ - Hyundai’s eco sub-brand - and H2, the chemical symbol for hydrogen.



Other features on the Blue2 are pure show car, and include cameras instead of rear-view mirrors, a transparent organic LED screen in place of a conventional instrument binnacle, and an automatic door opening system.

It’s not known whether the Blue2 is going to lead to a production version, or if the design language will transfer across to future models. Dubbed ‘Intersected Flow’, Hyundai claims it’s innovative and dynamic, although it seems to borrow elements such as the Saab 9-5’s glasshouse and the Vauxhall / Opel Ampera’s headlight treatment.

Hyundai Blue2 FCEV

Hyundai has unveiled the Blue2 Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle at the Seoul Motor Show.

Powered by hydrogen, the Blue2 (say it ‘Blue Square’ not ‘Blue Two’, apparently) is a mid-size saloon that generates 120 bhp (90 kW / 122 PS). That name is an amalgamation of ‘Blue Drive’ - Hyundai’s eco sub-brand - and H2, the chemical symbol for hydrogen.



Other features on the Blue2 are pure show car, and include cameras instead of rear-view mirrors, a transparent organic LED screen in place of a conventional instrument binnacle, and an automatic door opening system.

It’s not known whether the Blue2 is going to lead to a production version, or if the design language will transfer across to future models. Dubbed ‘Intersected Flow’, Hyundai claims it’s innovative and dynamic, although it seems to borrow elements such as the Saab 9-5’s glasshouse and the Vauxhall / Opel Ampera’s headlight treatment.

Top 10: Efficient petrol cars

The one pence reduction in fuel duty announced in today’s UK Budget won’t be enough to stop lots of car buyers searching out the most fuel efficient offerings.



For many, that will automatically mean a diesel or a hybrid, simply because those technologies deliver the best miles per gallon. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that those types of car will appeal to everyone.



For starters, they tend to cost more, which is enough to put off some. Combine that with the higher price of diesel, and it often means that mega miles have to be driven before the extra initial outlay is offset by better fuel economy.



So, for some drivers it will still make financial sense to go for a petrol-powered car. According to the Vehicle Certification Agency, these are the ten models currently on sale that use the least petrol (based on the combined cycle measure).

Most fuel efficient petrol-powered car: The Fiat 500 / 500C TwinAir with Dualogic transmission.

The good news is that all will better 60 mpg (4.7 l/100km), and all except the Suzuki and Nissan emit 100 g/km or less of CO2, qualifying them for zero road tax and exemption from the London Congestion Charge.



However, as would be expected, every one is a small city car which somewhat limits their practicality.

Rank	Manufacturer	Model	Transmission	CO2	mpg (l/100km)
1	Fiat	500 / 500C TwinAir Dualogic	SAT5	92	70.6 (4.0)
2	Fiat	500 / 500C TwinAir	M5	95	68.9 (4.1)
3=	Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	97	67.3 (4.2)
3=	Hyundai	I10 Blue 1.0 litre SOHC	M5	99	67.3 (4.2)
5=	Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	99	65.7 (4.3)
5=	Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	98	65.7 (4.3)
7=	Suzuki	Alto 1.0 SZ-L / SZ-2 / SZ-3 / SZ-4	M5	103	64.2 (4.4)
7=	Toyota	iQ (MY 2011) 1.0 VVT-i 5 speed manual	M5	99	64.2 (4.4)
7=	Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	100	64.2 (4.4)
7=	Nissan	Pixo 1.0	M5	103	64.2 (4.4)

Related posts:

Smart fortwo nightorange

Zero Congestion Charge

Top 10: Cheapest new cars

Fiat 500 TwinAir arrives

Top 10: Efficient petrol cars

The one pence reduction in fuel duty announced in today’s UK Budget won’t be enough to stop lots of car buyers searching out the most fuel efficient offerings.



For many, that will automatically mean a diesel or a hybrid, simply because those technologies deliver the best miles per gallon. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that those types of car will appeal to everyone.



For starters, they tend to cost more, which is enough to put off some. Combine that with the higher price of diesel, and it often means that mega miles have to be driven before the extra initial outlay is offset by better fuel economy.



So, for some drivers it will still make financial sense to go for a petrol-powered car. According to the Vehicle Certification Agency, these are the ten models currently on sale that use the least petrol (based on the combined cycle measure).

Most fuel efficient petrol-powered car: The Fiat 500 / 500C TwinAir with Dualogic transmission.

The good news is that all will better 60 mpg (4.7 l/100km), and all except the Suzuki and Nissan emit 100 g/km or less of CO2, qualifying them for zero road tax and exemption from the London Congestion Charge.



However, as would be expected, every one is a small city car which somewhat limits their practicality.

Rank	Manufacturer	Model	Transmission	CO2	mpg (l/100km)
1	Fiat	500 / 500C TwinAir Dualogic	SAT5	92	70.6 (4.0)
2	Fiat	500 / 500C TwinAir	M5	95	68.9 (4.1)
3=	Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	97	67.3 (4.2)
3=	Hyundai	I10 Blue 1.0 litre SOHC	M5	99	67.3 (4.2)
5=	Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	99	65.7 (4.3)
5=	Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	98	65.7 (4.3)
7=	Suzuki	Alto 1.0 SZ-L / SZ-2 / SZ-3 / SZ-4	M5	103	64.2 (4.4)
7=	Toyota	iQ (MY 2011) 1.0 VVT-i 5 speed manual	M5	99	64.2 (4.4)
7=	Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011) 71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	100	64.2 (4.4)
7=	Nissan	Pixo 1.0	M5	103	64.2 (4.4)

Related posts:

Smart fortwo nightorange

Zero Congestion Charge

Top 10: Cheapest new cars

Fiat 500 TwinAir arrives

Top 10: Irish car sales 2010

According to figures published by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, 88,373 cars were sold in Ireland during 2010.



That was almost 55% more than 2009’s figure of 57,118, an encouraging increase achieved in spite of harsh economic conditions. However, the market still has a long way to go before it recovers to the volumes seen in 2008, when sales topped 150,000.



2010’s performance was undoubtedly helped by the scrappage scheme, which accounted for over 17,000 registrations. Good news for the industry is that the programme will continue until the end of June 2011, although the amount of support - which is applied via Vehicle Registration Tax relief - is reduced from €1,500 to €1,250.



The top three manufacturers remained unchanged in 2010, with Ford selling the most cars followed by Toyota and then Volkswagen.



Fourth spot went to Renault, which trebled its sales thanks partly to being the manufacturer with the most scrappage scheme reclaims. Skoda also recorded a notable result but, despite a doubling of volumes, it only moved up one place to seventh on the league table.

Top 10: Irish Car Sales By Manufacturer
Position	Manufacturer	2010	2009	+/-	% +/-
1	Ford	11,215	8,121	3,094	38.1%
2	Toyota	10,660	7,603	3,057	40.2%
3	Volkswagen	10,301	6,174	4,127	66.8%
4	Renault	9,746	2,414	7,332	303.7%
5	Opel	6,603	4,046	2,557	63.2%
6	Nissan	5,494	4,684	810	17.3%
7	Skoda	4,915	2,390	2,525	105.6%
8	Hyundai	2,959	1,665	1,294	77.7%
9	Peugeot	2,924	1,766	1,158	65.6%
10	Audi	2,723	2,388	335	14.0%
Figures provided by SIMI Statistical Service

Top 10: Irish car sales 2010

According to figures published by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, 88,373 cars were sold in Ireland during 2010.



That was almost 55% more than 2009’s figure of 57,118, an encouraging increase achieved in spite of harsh economic conditions. However, the market still has a long way to go before it recovers to the volumes seen in 2008, when sales topped 150,000.



2010’s performance was undoubtedly helped by the scrappage scheme, which accounted for over 17,000 registrations. Good news for the industry is that the programme will continue until the end of June 2011, although the amount of support - which is applied via Vehicle Registration Tax relief - is reduced from €1,500 to €1,250.



The top three manufacturers remained unchanged in 2010, with Ford selling the most cars followed by Toyota and then Volkswagen.



Fourth spot went to Renault, which trebled its sales thanks partly to being the manufacturer with the most scrappage scheme reclaims. Skoda also recorded a notable result but, despite a doubling of volumes, it only moved up one place to seventh on the league table.

Top 10: Irish Car Sales By Manufacturer
Position	Manufacturer	2010	2009	+/-	% +/-
1	Ford	11,215	8,121	3,094	38.1%
2	Toyota	10,660	7,603	3,057	40.2%
3	Volkswagen	10,301	6,174	4,127	66.8%
4	Renault	9,746	2,414	7,332	303.7%
5	Opel	6,603	4,046	2,557	63.2%
6	Nissan	5,494	4,684	810	17.3%
7	Skoda	4,915	2,390	2,525	105.6%
8	Hyundai	2,959	1,665	1,294	77.7%
9	Peugeot	2,924	1,766	1,158	65.6%
10	Audi	2,723	2,388	335	14.0%
Figures provided by SIMI Statistical Service

Volt is Car of the Year

The Chevrolet Volt has been declared the 2011 North American Car of the Year. 49 jurors from across the United States and Canada gave it 233 points, making it the fourth time that GM has won the title.

Images © GM Corp.

In second place was the Hyundai Sonata, which received 163 points. Third went to the electric car that took the 2011 European Car of the Year award, the Nissan Leaf. It picked up 94 points.



Meanwhile, the 2011 North American Truck of the Year is the Ford Explorer, which earned 253 points. It comfortably beat the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which scored 138 points from the jury. The Dodge Durango, with 99 points, was third.

Volt is Car of the Year

The Chevrolet Volt has been declared the 2011 North American Car of the Year. 49 jurors from across the United States and Canada gave it 233 points, making it the fourth time that GM has won the title.

Images © GM Corp.

In second place was the Hyundai Sonata, which received 163 points. Third went to the electric car that took the 2011 European Car of the Year award, the Nissan Leaf. It picked up 94 points.



Meanwhile, the 2011 North American Truck of the Year is the Ford Explorer, which earned 253 points. It comfortably beat the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which scored 138 points from the jury. The Dodge Durango, with 99 points, was third.

Zero Congestion Charge

In a rare piece of good news for motorists, the beginning of 2011 saw a change to the London Congestion Charge that could see some drivers now (legally) avoiding the fee altogether.



The new Greener Vehicle Discount, which replaces the Alternative Fuel Discount, means that more cars will potentially qualify for 100% off the daily charge.



Naturally, there are a couple of caveats that come attached with this generous gesture from Transport for London.



The first is that the vehicle needs to be ‘green’. More precisely, it should be Euro 5 emissions compliant and produce 100 grams of CO2 per kilometre or less.



Secondly, if you already own such an eco-friendly machine, don’t presume that you can just swan about in central London and not worry about the Congestion Charge. To receive the Greener Vehicle Discount, a car must first be registered with Transport for London, and that involves a £10 annual payment.



So, what cars will qualify for the Greener Vehicle Discount? According to the Vehicle Certification Agency, the models that currently meet the criteria are:

Manufacturer	Model	Specification	Transmission	Fuel	CO2 g/km
Audi	A3	1.6 TDI 105PS Stop Start	M5	Diesel	99
Citroën	DS3	1.6HDi 90hp w/ energy saving tyres	M5	Diesel	99
Citroën	New C3	1.6HDi 90hp Airdream+	M5	Diesel	99
Fiat	500 / 500C (2010 on)	TwinAir	M5	Petrol	95
Fiat	500 / 500C (2010 on)	TwinAir Dualogic	SAT5	Petrol	92
Fiat	Punto Evo (Jan 2010 on)	1.3 16v MultiJet 85 ECO	M5	Diesel	95
Ford	Fiesta (Post 2010¼)	1.6 Duratorq 95PS +DPF ECO	M5	Diesel	98
Hyundai	i10	1.0l SOHC	M5	Petrol	99
Mini	Hatchback	One D w/ DPF	M6	Diesel	99
Mini	Hatchback	Cooper D w/ DPF	M6	Diesel	99
Seat	Ibiza	ST 1.2 CR TDI 75PS Ecomotive	M5	Diesel	92
Seat	Leon	1.6 CR TDI 105PS Ecomotive	M5	Diesel	99
Skoda	New Fabia Hatch	1.2 CR TDI 75PS GreenLine II	M5	Diesel	89
Skoda	New Fabia Estate	1.2 CR TDI 75PS GreenLine II	M5	Diesel	89
Skoda	New Fabia Estate	1.2 TDI 3 cylinder 75PS GreenLine	M5	Diesel	89
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	86
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	87
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	99
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	100
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	86
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	87
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	97
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	98
Toyota	iQ (MY 2011)	1.0 VVT-i	M5	Petrol	99
Toyota	Auris Hybrid (MY 2010)	T4 89g 1.8 VVT-i	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	89
Toyota	Auris Hybrid (MY 2010)	T4 1.8 VVT-i	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	93
Toyota	Auris Hybrid (MY 2010)	T Spirit 1.8 VVT-i	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	93
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T4 1.8 VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	92
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T3 1.8VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	89
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T Spirit 1.8 VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	92
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T Spirit w/ Solar Panel 1.8VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	89
Volkswagen	New Polo	1.2 TDI 75PS BlueMotion	M5	Diesel	89
Volkswagen	New Golf	1.6 TDI 105PS BlueMotion	M5	Diesel	99
Volvo	C30 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	C30 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	S40 (MY 2010)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	S40 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	V50 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
NB: Electric and plug-in hybrid cars aren’t eligible for the Greener Vehicle Discount - they have their own discount scheme.

It’s worth bearing in mind that Transport for London has committed to review the Greener Vehicle Discount in the future, so that eventually only vehicles emitting 80 g/km or less qualify. This tweak will be introduced ‘when the time is right’, but the first reassessment of the discount has been confirmed for 2012.



And finally, the area covered by the Congestion Charge is now much smaller, following the scrapping of the Western Extension zone on 4th January 2011:

Related posts:

Congestion Charge change

London Congestion Charge

Zero Congestion Charge

In a rare piece of good news for motorists, the beginning of 2011 saw a change to the London Congestion Charge that could see some drivers now (legally) avoiding the fee altogether.



The new Greener Vehicle Discount, which replaces the Alternative Fuel Discount, means that more cars will potentially qualify for 100% off the daily charge.



Naturally, there are a couple of caveats that come attached with this generous gesture from Transport for London.



The first is that the vehicle needs to be ‘green’. More precisely, it should be Euro 5 emissions compliant and produce 100 grams of CO2 per kilometre or less.



Secondly, if you already own such an eco-friendly machine, don’t presume that you can just swan about in central London and not worry about the Congestion Charge. To receive the Greener Vehicle Discount, a car must first be registered with Transport for London, and that involves a £10 annual payment.



So, what cars will qualify for the Greener Vehicle Discount? According to the Vehicle Certification Agency, the models that currently meet the criteria are:

Manufacturer	Model	Specification	Transmission	Fuel	CO2 g/km
Audi	A3	1.6 TDI 105PS Stop Start	M5	Diesel	99
Citroën	DS3	1.6HDi 90hp w/ energy saving tyres	M5	Diesel	99
Citroën	New C3	1.6HDi 90hp Airdream+	M5	Diesel	99
Fiat	500 / 500C (2010 on)	TwinAir	M5	Petrol	95
Fiat	500 / 500C (2010 on)	TwinAir Dualogic	SAT5	Petrol	92
Fiat	Punto Evo (Jan 2010 on)	1.3 16v MultiJet 85 ECO	M5	Diesel	95
Ford	Fiesta (Post 2010¼)	1.6 Duratorq 95PS +DPF ECO	M5	Diesel	98
Hyundai	i10	1.0l SOHC	M5	Petrol	99
Mini	Hatchback	One D w/ DPF	M6	Diesel	99
Mini	Hatchback	Cooper D w/ DPF	M6	Diesel	99
Seat	Ibiza	ST 1.2 CR TDI 75PS Ecomotive	M5	Diesel	92
Seat	Leon	1.6 CR TDI 105PS Ecomotive	M5	Diesel	99
Skoda	New Fabia Hatch	1.2 CR TDI 75PS GreenLine II	M5	Diesel	89
Skoda	New Fabia Estate	1.2 CR TDI 75PS GreenLine II	M5	Diesel	89
Skoda	New Fabia Estate	1.2 TDI 3 cylinder 75PS GreenLine	M5	Diesel	89
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	86
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	87
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	99
Smart	fortwo cabrio (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	100
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	86
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	54 bhp cdi w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Diesel	87
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softip & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	97
Smart	fortwo coupé (MY 2011)	71 bhp mhd w/ Softouch & 15" rear wheels	5 AMT	Petrol	98
Toyota	iQ (MY 2011)	1.0 VVT-i	M5	Petrol	99
Toyota	Auris Hybrid (MY 2010)	T4 89g 1.8 VVT-i	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	89
Toyota	Auris Hybrid (MY 2010)	T4 1.8 VVT-i	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	93
Toyota	Auris Hybrid (MY 2010)	T Spirit 1.8 VVT-i	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	93
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T4 1.8 VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	92
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T3 1.8VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	89
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T Spirit 1.8 VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	92
Toyota	Prius (MY 2009)	T Spirit w/ Solar Panel 1.8VVT-I	E-CVT	Petrol Hybrid	89
Volkswagen	New Polo	1.2 TDI 75PS BlueMotion	M5	Diesel	89
Volkswagen	New Golf	1.6 TDI 105PS BlueMotion	M5	Diesel	99
Volvo	C30 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	C30 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	S40 (MY 2010)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	S40 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
Volvo	V50 (MY 2011)	DRIVe	M6	Diesel	99
NB: Electric and plug-in hybrid cars aren’t eligible for the Greener Vehicle Discount - they have their own discount scheme.

It’s worth bearing in mind that Transport for London has committed to review the Greener Vehicle Discount in the future, so that eventually only vehicles emitting 80 g/km or less qualify. This tweak will be introduced ‘when the time is right’, but the first reassessment of the discount has been confirmed for 2012.



And finally, the area covered by the Congestion Charge is now much smaller, following the scrapping of the Western Extension zone on 4th January 2011:

Related posts:

Congestion Charge change

London Congestion Charge