Author: Rhys Gregory

There’s big news in the EV world today, but for those of us who’ve had our finger on the pulse, it’s hardly a shock. As reported by the BBC, BYD has overtaken Tesla in global vehicle sales – and honestly, it felt like a matter of when, not if. According to the figures, BYD delivered 526,409 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the last quarter of 2023, beating Tesla’s 484,507 deliveries. Over the full year, Tesla still leads with 1.8 million electric cars sold to BYD’s 1.57 million BEVs. But this final quarter victory is a major milestone – and it…

If you’re driving through North Wales and looking for the ideal place to take a break, Betws-y-Coed should be high on your list. Nestled in the stunning Conwy Valley and right on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, this picturesque village is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination in itself. The Gateway to Snowdonia Betws-y-Coed isn’t just another pretty Welsh village; it’s a hub of activity and a natural gateway to Snowdonia. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip or seeking a place to stay for the night, the village offers something for everyone. Set within the Gwydir…

I was recently travelling up to North Wales for lunch at the very lovely Pale Hall. You can read more about that experience in this blog. Now, I’ve been to North Wales many times and absolutely love driving here—aside from the stretch through Hereford when travelling up from Cardiff. It can be frustrating at times, particularly when you find yourself stuck behind slower-moving vehicles. However, I always remind myself that once I break away from that section and start heading further north, the driving experience transforms into something truly special. On this particular trip, I decided to let the sat…

It has been a while since I last stopped at Palé Hall, but after a recent visit, I had to re-highlight it as one of my favourite pit stops. You may remember I wrote about this luxury estate when visiting North Wales a couple of summers ago—if not, you can check out that blog here: The Best Drive and Dine Experience in North Wales. Since then, Palé Hall has changed hands, and I was eager to see how it has evolved under new ownership. A Car Enthusiast’s Dream Stop The new owners are self-confessed lovers of sports cars, which was…

Toyota is making significant strides in delivering its promise to introduce a series of new battery electric models to the UK and European markets. This expansion strengthens the role of BEVs in the company’s multi-pathway approach to achieving carbon neutrality in the region by 2035. The latest additions to Toyota’s BEV range highlight how previous concept models have successfully transitioned into production-ready vehicles. By the end of 2025, the brand will have introduced all-new and enhanced products competing in key European automotive segments, including B, C, and D-SUV categories. Each model embodies Toyota’s core BEV attributes: authentic SUV character and…

If you’ve been following my budget supercar journey, you’ll know that I’ve already started tackling some much-needed maintenance on my BMW i8. From fixing the frustrating LED light strip issue (read about it here) to replacing what we suspect was the original 12V battery (more on that mystery here), there’s been plenty to do. But this time, the i8 was back on the ramps for something far more exciting—an upgrade that would transform its character. The Love-Hate Relationship with the BMW i8’s Sound Let’s get one thing straight: I absolutely love the BMW i8. It’s a head-turner, an engineering marvel,…

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the latest iteration of its CLS Coupé and Shooting Brake models, featuring a host of enhancements in design, technology, and performance. These updates aim to reinforce the brand’s commitment to delivering luxury and innovation in the executive car segment.​ Design and Exterior The new CLS models boast a refreshed exterior design, characterised by a more dynamic front grille, sleeker headlamps, and a reimagined bumper that exudes sportiness. The Shooting Brake variant combines the elegance of a coupé with the practicality of an estate, offering a unique blend of style and functionality.​ Interior and Technology Inside, the CLS…

The Mini Festival is back at Brands Hatch on Sunday, 3rd August 2025, promising an unmissable day of track action, show-stopping displays, and Mini-themed entertainment. Now in its 13th edition, this much-loved event brings together hundreds of prized classic and modern Minis, celebrating the UK’s most iconic small car in style. Expect door-to-door racing as Mini Miglias, Mini Se7ens, and the Sanwa Trophy battle it out on the famous Indy circuit. The ‘Fastest Mini in the World’ race is set to return, showcasing blistering speed and fierce competition. Adding to the adrenaline-fuelled spectacle, MINI CHALLENGE CLUBSPORT, Super Mighty, and Mighty…

If you’ve been following my Mini adventure, you’ll know just how much I love the Clubman. It’s almost the perfect car for me. In fact, it’s a car I could see myself keeping forever. That’s why I’ve spent so much time (and money) upgrading and tweaking it to make it even more perfect. But I’ve recently hit the pause button on a few planned modifications. It’s got me thinking: Can you go too far with modifying a car? Just because you can, should you? At what point do you stop enhancing and start compromising the essence of the car? Could…

Imagine a road where every turn unveils a new breathtaking view, where the tarmac twists and flows like a ribbon through the heart of the Brecon Beacons. The Black Mountain Pass isn’t just a drive; it’s an experience—one that has captivated petrolheads, bikers, and road-trippers for generations. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of perfectly cambered bends or simply a scenic escape from the everyday, this legendary Welsh route promises an unforgettable journey. With a speed limit capped at 40 mph, this road isn’t about high-speed thrills—it’s about precision, control, and fully immersing yourself in the experience. Every sweeping corner and…