Fiat launches Mild Hybrid tech for the 500 and Panda

UK pricing and specifications for the new Fiat 500 Mild Hybrid and Panda Mild Hybrid have been announced, with the car arriving in UK showrooms from February and March 2020 respectively. Fiat says that with the introduction of mild hybrid technology to the line-up, the 500 and the Panda provide “all the benefits of efficient, compact, lightweight and accessible hybrid driving”.

Uber deal for 2,000 electric Nissan Leafs

Nissan and Uber have signed a deal to support the introduction of 2,000 all-electric Nissan Leafs for drivers who use the Uber app. The fleet of 40kWh Nissan Leafs, which can travel up to 168 miles on a single charge and are manufactured in Sunderland, will be offered to drivers as part of Uber’s Clean Air Plan.

Skoda Kodiaqs converted for emergency services

Skoda has supplied a fleet of Kodiaqs to South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), which have undergone one of the brand’s most ambitious conversions to date. The operational commanders required a bespoke conversion that involved elements such as moving the brand’s 9.2-inch infotainment screen on to the passenger’s side, a fully converted storage area for equipment, additional power supplies, auxiliary battery, split charging and mains shoreline capability.

Updated all-electric smart EQ range goes on sale

The new smart EQ range is now on sale, with prices starting from £16,850 for the smart fortwo coupé (including PICG grant of £3,500; total price £20,350 excluding grant). The forfour is priced from £17,285 (£20,785 excluding grant), and the fortwo cabriolet starts at £20,420 (£23,920 excluding grant).

Volkswagen launches three-year fixed-price insurance for commercials

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has launched a new fixed price insurance offer to reward owners who are often hit with increases in premiums when staying with the same insurer. The three-year fixed price insurance offer from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Financial Services has been introduced in response to customer feedback after research revealed 40 per cent of owners switch insurance every year because loyalty isn’t rewarded.