This week's snippets of automotive news include news on the Honda CR-V, cars that will be “legislated out of existence”, the future of the Toyota Avensis and Volkswagen's plan for electrification.
Honda CR-V:
Honda UK boss Dave Hodgetts admits that its new Honda CR-V competes in an incredibly competitive marketplace that didn’t exist when the model was first launched in 1996. He said Honda is “reliant on loyalist customers” for CR-V sales but also hopes the introduction of hybrid and seven-seat options will entice new buyers. “The styling is a lot more modern too,” he said.
A dying breed:
Cars like the McLaren Senna are a dying breed and will be “legislated out of existence” in the future, McLaren boss Mike Flewitt believes. The car’s sub- 250g/km CO2 emissions output is impressive given its 789bhp power output but Flewitt still believes all future cars will need some kind of hybrid element to help reduce CO2 levels.
Toyota Avensis:
Toyota is not committing to the future of the British-built Avensis, which competes in a declining segment against the likes of the Vauxhall Insignia and Ford Mondeo. Toyota Europe boss Johan van Zyl said it is “not decided yet” what the future will be for the car, and it will be subject to an announcement in the future.
Volkswagen on electrification:
With four electric concepts now revealed by Volkswagen and with a fifth large SUV on its way, VW boss Herbert Diess said it is now focusing on the launch and delivery of these cars: “We wanted to impress a little and show that the electric platform is conceivable, but now you will see fewer electric show cars as we are focusing on launching these cars.”
Read more
Honda CR-V review
McLaren Senna GTR is already sold out
McLaren 720S review
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Mclaren, you just need to
Mclaren, you just need to develop an Hybrid system with capability to run 50 miles minimum with the batterys only and you are good to go for many decades. That way everyone will be pleased.
This week's 'confidential' is
Reducing CO2
McLaren could make a start by extending the range downwards rather than up, up, ever up. The world would beat a path to its door if it could design and produce an innovative, affordable sports car - perhaps in league with a major manufacturer (meaning not another SLR) - because we all know that anything* is possible if you can charge a silly money for a limited edition machine most of us will never see which can drive at speeds most owners couldn't begin to handle. (*That said the company still hasn't come close to matching the F1 in any regard except 'exclusivity'.)