The story behind
the content.
I'm Ben Freakley, a Brighton-based car enthusiast with a love of exploring new places, trying new things and, more often than not, finding something interesting to say about cars along the way.
Cars have been part of my world for as long as I can remember. Not necessarily in a head-under-the-bonnet kind of way, but because of how cars fit into our lives. The excitement of seeing something special on the road. The freedom of driving somewhere new. And the fact that the right car can be practical, emotional, frustrating and brilliant all at the same time.
I was born in South East London, grew up on Mersea Island in Essex, spent many years in Norfolk and moved to Brighton in 2021.
Brighton feels like home now. It's creative, colourful, open-minded and a little bit chaotic in the best possible way.
Why I write about cars
For me, cars are about much more than statistics, trim levels and badges.
I'm interested in what they're actually like to live with. Is it comfortable on a long journey? Is there enough room for everyday life? Does the technology make things easier or simply add complexity? And, ultimately, would I want to spend my own money on it?
That's the perspective I try to bring to the content on this site.
You'll find everything from cars I've spent time driving to first looks, launch events, industry news and the occasional opinion piece. I love an exciting sports car as much as anyone, but I can get just as interested in a clever small EV, a practical family SUV or something that simply does its job exceptionally well.
Cars are also part of my professional world, so I've been fortunate enough to spend many years around the motor industry. That experience inevitably shapes some of the things I notice and the questions I ask, but this website is a personal project and reflects my own interests, experiences and opinions.
About the content
Everything on benfreakley.co.uk is written from my own perspective.
For a clearer explanation of how I approach press loans, launch events, first drives, official figures, observed efficiency and corrections, read how I review cars.
Some articles are based on cars I've driven extensively, while others might come from a shorter first drive, an event, a static viewing or research using official manufacturer information and other reputable sources.
Where relevant, I'll make it clear what experience I've actually had with a vehicle so you can judge the context for yourself.
The aim is simple: useful, accessible automotive content for people who enjoy cars or are trying to make sense of what to drive next.
Beyond the wheel
There's quite a bit more to life than cars.
I love being by the sea, finding a good coffee shop, discovering somewhere new to eat and ending a sunny day with an Aperol Spritz or a glass of wine.
I'm also a big movie fan. There's something about switching off from everything else and getting completely lost in a story that I've always loved.
And family matters a lot to me. One of the hardest things about living away from Norfolk is not being able to have spontaneous days out with my dad as often as I'd like. Our father-and-son days out, normally involving cars, food, coffee or a slightly over-planned itinerary, are some of the moments I value most.
Cars & EVs
Brighton coffee
Food & travel
Movies
Health & fitness
Days out
A little perspective
Over the last few years I've also put more energy into my health, wellbeing and making the most of life outside work.
It's taught me that progress isn't always dramatic. Sometimes it's getting back into a routine, going for a walk, saying yes to something different or simply making time for the things you enjoy.
That's partly what this website has become for me. Somewhere to share the cars, places, experiences and occasional thoughts that I find interesting.
Hopefully you'll find something interesting here too.
Say hello
If you've enjoyed something I've written, have a car you think I should take a look at or simply fancy saying hello, I'd love to hear from you.
Get in touch