Cars, driving
& the industry
behind it.
I'm Ben Freakley, a Brighton-based motoring writer with a career in the UK automotive industry. I write about cars I've driven, the cost of running them and what is changing for motorists.
You'll find road tests, first looks and practical analysis here, whether I'm weighing up a small electric car or trying to make sense of the latest industry numbers.
Latest car reviews
The cars, the driving experience and the details worth knowing before you choose your next one.
Škoda Epiq 2026 First Look & UK Buying Guide: Price, Range and What We Know
The Skoda Epiq is exactly what the UK electric car market needs: a practical, well-built, and genuinely affordable family SUV that does not feel like a compromise.
Honda Super-N first look: is it enough EV for everyday UK driving?
A promising little EV for local journeys if four seats, a compact boot and dependable charging fit your life. Its 128-mile WLTP range makes it better suited to urban use than frequent motorway trips.
AION UT first look: should you choose it over an established EV?
The AION UT is worth shortlisting for its space, equipment and aftersales package. I'd check local service support, charging speed and whether its price works against familiar electric hatchbacks.
Latest
Reviews, news, advice, opinion, comparisons and thoughts from the road.
Toyota Corolla wins on reliability, and that deserves attention
The Corolla’s FN50 reliability win is a welcome reminder that a car’s best feature can be the fact it simply gets on with the job.
Fiat Topolino Dolcevita brings a little sunshine to the short trip
Fiat’s new Topolino Dolcevita makes the opening soft top part of the wider UK range. I like the idea, but its appeal depends on the journeys you actually make.
Vauxhall passes 100,000 EV sales, but charging is still the bigger conversation
Vauxhall’s EV sales landmark shows how far the brand has come. For the next wave of buyers, the decision will still start with where to plug in.
Alfa Romeo and Maserati make the case for cars with a personal story
The joint Alfa Romeo and Maserati initiative has completed its first year. Its bespoke cars raise an interesting question about what makes a car feel special.
Cheapest Electric Cars in the UK 2026: 6 EVs I'd Actually Shortlist
The Dacia Spring is currently the cheapest new electric car I would put on a UK shortlist at £11,990, but the best-value EV depends on whether you need city-car simplicity, longer range or one-car versatility.
No Driveway? Home EV Charging in England Just Got Up to £300 Cheaper
From 21 October 2026, qualifying cross-pavement EV charging installations in England no longer need planning permission. The government says that could cut installation costs by up to £300.
Latest videos
Reviews, first looks, events and life on the road.
Behind the wheel
I've spent much of my working life in the motor industry, from dealerships and manufacturers to vehicle leasing and fleet management. Today I lead group marketing at Rivervale and write here in my own name.
I like getting past the sales pitch to understand what a car is actually like to use, how much it costs and whether it would suit the people considering it.
My personal reviews and opinions are separate from my work at Rivervale. Where a commercial relationship is relevant, I explain it.
Behind the Scenes
Life beyond the steering wheel
Say hello
Enjoyed something I've written, have a car you think I should take a look at or simply want to say hello? Get in touch.