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News just in from Mercedes-Benz Cars Ireland confirms they are fully geared to meet their 232-registrations plan with a number of new models arriving between July and December 2023. Arriving first in July is the new EQE SUV – the fully electric, innovative and luxurious multi-purpose variant of the EQE saloon, offering comfort and connectivity for up to five passengers. Also amongst the Q3 introductions will be five facelifted SUVs – the GLA, GLB, GLE, GLE Coupé and larger GLS, coupled with the latest versions of the compact, 4-door CLA coupé. Scheduled to arrive in Q4 will be the new E-Class saloon – the eleventh generation of a model that continues to define standards of luxury in the executive-class segment – complete with an electronics architecture for a comprehensive digital user experience. The final arrival, due before year-end, will be a new 3-door CLE Coupé.

Tuesday July 4th is the date selected for Renault Ireland to showcase a highly connected and innovative SUV for the modern, electrified world. This new Austral E-Tech full hybrid will play a key role in helping Renault to achieve its ambitions of re-conquering the C-segment, as part of Renault’s ‘cars for living’ trajectory, enhancing its already strong focus on electrified cars, as outlined in the bold ‘Renaulution’ strategy. This is the ‘nouvelle vague’ that aims to turn the brand into an industry benchmark for technology, electrification, and connected services. All new Austral E-Tech full hybrid is the first Renault vehicle to be designed on the third generation CMF-CD platform [co-developed within the Alliance], and is coupled with the latest, more powerful, and more efficient version of the E-Tech full hybrid powertrain. It marries its new, efficient drivetrain with an innovative, user-focused cockpit and a range of advanced technologies – from cutting-edge Google connectivity to an array of driver, safety and parking systems as standard – all packaged in a new, sporty SUV design that follows Gilles Vidal’s (Renault Director of Design) new vision. Available in three trims (techno, techno esprit Alpine and iconic esprit Alpine) the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid wears the esprit Alpine branding for the first time on a Renault. All models are powered by a new 200hp petrol hybrid powertrain with a 400V 1.7kWh lithium-ion battery. An electric-only mode offers quiet and zero emissions city driving, while the battery recharges when decelerating and braking to offer a truly electric experience with no need to plug in. On the combined WLTP cycle, the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid achieves up to 60.1mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid cars in the Renault line-up, keeping emissions as low as 105g/km of CO2. The impressive figures highlight its status as an exceptionally efficient hybrid electric vehicle. Regarded as the pinnacle of modernity, all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid comes with up to 30 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and MULTI-SENSE settings, which provide four different driving styles suitable for a range of journeys and terrains. These are complemented by Renault’s third-generation four-wheel steering system, 4CONTROL Advanced, giving all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid a city car-like 10.1m turning circle, which makes parking a breeze when used in conjunction with the car’s front, rear and side parking sensors and 360° Around View 3D camera. Each useful, proactive, and intelligent technological feature is there to improve passenger comfort, pleasure, and act as part of Renault’s leading Human First safety initiative. In fact, the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid has also achieved the highest NCAP score, receiving five stars. Designed for living, its generous interior features a wireless smartphone charging station, while 35 litres of modular storage throughout the cabin ensure optimum use of the available space. The rear seats can be slid back by 16cm for a stretched-out and relaxed experience, while the boot space offers a capacity of up to 555 litres, conveniently accessed via an electric tailgate. A highly customisable digital experience awaits, accessed through the twin 12-inch OpenR screens and 9.3-inch head-up display, all powered by Google services, which includes Google Play, Google Maps and Google Assistant. A range of up to 35 apps with exclusive content are available. From selecting music to planning a route, finding a parking space or controlling home devices, all can be activated with the ease of voice control. In total, with the 9.3” head-up display and Google-built in is standard on all Irish versions, providing a total screen space of nearly 1000 cm2 for an intuitive, immersive, and connected driving experience. It's name evokes images of the wide-open spaces of the southern hemisphere, a promise of endless possibilities, a hallmark of Renault’s DNA. Manufactured in the ultra-modern Palencia factory in Spain, all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid is subject to several rigorous checks during every stage of production to ensure the upmost quality. From choosing materials to checking each functionality, from assembly to painting, nothing is left to chance. As quality and durability are the guiding principles of the design brief, nearly 1,000 criteria are assessed throughout the design phase by both in house experts and an external panel of consumers. With quality as a core pillar of the Renaulution strategy, all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid travelled nearly 2 million miles [or 75 times around the world] on all road types, as part of a stringent pre-launch quality testing programme. A global team of 100 experts put the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid to the test, resulting in more than 350 improvements made before launch. Orders for the all new Austral E-Tech full hybrid are open through your local Renault dealer.

Widely regarded as the ultimate test of motor industry sales and service knowledge and skills, the Audi Twin Cup returned in 2023 following a 3-year hiatus. The Audi Twin Cup National Final saw Audi sales and aftersales staff from across the country vie for the honour of representing Ireland at the World Final in Munich in July. Following two online qualifiers earlier this year, some of Ireland’s most impressive sales and aftersales employees took to the National Final at Powerscourt Hotel in Wicklow. Comprehensive knowledge tests were presented across four categories including Sales, Technology, Used Car Sales and New Car Sales, with the top two in each category making it through. Teams from Audi Naas, Audi Centre (Sandyford), Audi Sligo and Audi Limerick came out on top at the National Final and will travel to Munich in July to represent Ireland at the Audi Twin Cup World Final where they will face 26 country teams for the title of World Champions. Now in its 26th year, the Audi Twin Cup recognises excellence and progress in the motor industry among Audi technicians and service advisors, testing diagnostic and repair capabilities as well as abilities in customer service and support. In 2023, sales categories were included alongside aftersales for the first time, emphasising the increasing importance of collaboration and synergy between the two functions. Damien O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Audi Ireland commented; “We are delighted to have the Audi Twin Cup back on the 2023 Audi Ireland calendar. Audi is committed to offering the best in class quality across all facets of the business and this is an important initiative, which drives progress through competitive learning and development across Audi’s Sales and Aftersales functions. I’m delighted to see such high standards at this year’s event and wishing Team Audi Ireland the very best in Munich.” Teams from 27 countries worldwide will face off at the World Final this year. The international stage is highly competitive, with more than 1,500 teams due to compete in national qualifiers across the globe. From all at DoneDeal we wish our Irish participants every success.

Once again the Renault Group finished on the podium last month and maintained third position in the overall car and van market year to date with 9.3% market share. The Renault brand is now at 5.1% market share year to date with Dacia at 4.6% year to date. In May Megane E-Tech 100% electric had a strong month and was the bestselling electric hatchback and number four bestselling car in the competitive C-Segment. While the EV market has grown by 56%, sales of electric cars across the Renault range are up 128% year to date. There is good supply of Megane E-Tech 100% electric and Zoe E-Tech 100% electric in dealerships for this month and next and private customers looking to avail of the full SEAI grant of €5,000 will need to order their EV before the 30th of June. Megane E-Tech 100% electric is available to order through Mobilize Financial Services (MFS) at 4.9% APR /from €240 per month from Renault’s 31 car dealerships and the current retail prices will be guaranteed on orders taken by 30th June and registered by 31st July. 4.9% APR is also applicable on Zoe E-Tech 100% electric from €269 per month. 232 Offers across all other Renault Models - Clio, Captur and Arkana - MFS has a 6.9% APR finance with monthly payment from €209. There is good supply on petrol, E-Tech full hybrid and top of the range new Arkana E-Tech Engineered which is packed with the latest on-board equipment and with a dynamic and sporty design. This striking new version stands out with its 18-inch E-Tech engineered diamond cut alloy wheels with gold highlights, E-Tech engineered front bumper with gold detailing, and E-Tech engineered front and rear skid plates. The interior, meanwhile, builds on the specification of the Techno with features such as an E-Tech engineered heated leather steering wheel, electrically adjustable and heated front seats in E-Tech engineered leather and suede upholstery with black and gold stitching, black headlining, carbon-style dashboard, aluminium pedals, a frameless rear-view mirror, hands-free parking, and adaptive cruise control. In the LCV market, Renault Group ended the month on the podium and maintained its 2nd position year to date. Trafic was the number one bestselling van in May, and number two in its segment year to date. Renault Master was number one in the van market year to date and number two in its segment last month. All-New Kangoo was fifth best selling van year to date. 232 LCV offers from MFS see Kangoo including E-Tech electric, Trafic and Master available at 6.9% APR on all orders taken by 30th June and registered by 31st July 2023. Dacia has also announced its 232 flexible finance offers across its complete range, starting at just €5 per day on the road for the popular Sandero. Celebrating ten years in Ireland in 2023 the Dacia brand continues to keep the new car market on its toes achieving 4.5% market share and is firmly positioned in the top ten car brands in Ireland, now ranked number 7 in the new car market both last month and year to date. Sandero was in the ten best-selling models in the PC market and number two in its segment year to date while the 7-seater Jogger was number four best-selling in the C segment year to date and Duster number six in the highly competitive C-SUV segment. Dacia dealerships are hosting a Dacia National Sales Event which will take place at Dacia’s 31 dealerships from Thursday 8th – Saturday 10th June. Customers will also be able to test drive the new range topping Extreme trim which has just arrived.

We have been informed that from Thursday 15th June, the minimum credit or debit card balance required to start a charge will increase from €/£5 to €/£20. This applies to the PAYG and membership price plans. For customers with auto top up enabled, the ESB recommend increasing your top up amount and top-up threshold to ensure uninterrupted charging when using either ecar connect or an ESB Charge Point access card at any of chargers within the ESB network. For those who haven’t yet activated auto top up, the ESB are asking that you do so. Electric vehicle charging stations in Ireland can be found through the ESB EV Solutions website. They offer a map that shows the locations of charging stations throughout the country. For drivers looking to use a one time payment option to charge, a minimum credit or debit card balance required to start a charge will increase to €/£30. Those of you with further queries can get in touch with at ecars@esb.ie or phone 00353 1 258 3799 (Republic of Ireland) or 0044 345 601 8303 (Northern Ireland).

Recent news over in Liffey Valley based Volkswagen Ireland, see's Alan Bateson appointed as the new Brand Director, for VW Passenger Cars Ireland. Taking over from Rodolfo Calixto who has moved to Volkswagen Group China, Bateson brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He joins the brand from his previous role as Brand Director for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Prior to that he was Head of Aftersales for Volkswagen Group Ireland from 2009. As Brand Director for Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Bateson will be responsible for leading the brand in Ireland as it transitions towards emobility and strives to meet its ambitious sustainability goals. Volkswagen Passenger Cars is already Ireland’s leading BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) brand with a 22% market share. Meanwhile, the award-winning ID.4 is Ireland’s best-selling electric vehicle two years running and tops the sales charts in 2023 with a 15.7% market share. Working closely with the Volkswagen team, Alan will ensure Volkswagen continues to innovate while meeting the needs of all Irish car buyers. Commenting on the appointment, Bateson said: “I am thrilled to take on this new role with Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland. This is an incredibly exciting time to be working in the motor industry and Volkswagen is leads the way as we transition to emobility and full sustainability.” Bateson’s appointment is testament to years of expertise and leadership demonstrated within the Volkswagen Group. He has a strong track record of success, having overseen significant growth and brand recognition during his tenure at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland. Last year, he led the introduction of the brand’s first electric vehicle, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, which went on to become Irish Car of the Year and Irish Van of the Year 2023, the first time a single model has won both awards in the same year. Carla Wentzel, CEO of Volkswagen Group Ireland, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alan to his new role as Brand Director for Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland. Alan's experience and proven track record will be instrumental in driving the Volkswagen brand forward and ensuring we continue to provide our customers with the best possible experience.” Bateson, who officially takes on his new position from June 1, added: “I am really excited to start working alongside the talented Volkswagen Passenger Cars team in Liffey Valley as well as our first-class dealer network. Together, we will strive to give our customers the best possible experience while working towards our goal of a more sustainable future for Volkswagen in Ireland.” From all the team here in DoneDeal we wish Alan every success in his new role.

News just in from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) today released their official 231 new vehicle registrations statistics for May. New car registrations for the month of May were up 42.7% (7,557) when compared to May 2022 (5,295). Registrations year to date are up 18.2% (74,542) on the same period last year (63,057). Light Commercial vehicles (LCV) are up 76.2% (2,528) compared to May last year (1,435) and year to date are up 31.1% (16,255). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are also showing an increase of 11.9% (217) in comparison to May 2022 (194). Year to date HGV's are up 35.6% (1,424). Imported Used Cars seen a 14.9% (4,486) increase in May 2023, when compared to May 2022 (3,905). Year to date imports are up 5.2% (20,797) on 2022 (19,766). For the month of May 1,725 new electric vehicles were registered compared to 743 in May 2022 (+132.2). So far this year 12,875 new electric cars have been registered in comparison to +55.9% (8,258) on the same period 2022. Electric Vehicles, Plug-in Hybrids and Hybrids continue to increase their market share, with a combined market share (year to date) now of 42.74%. Petrol remains dominant at 32.36%, with Diesel accounting for 22.17%, Hybrid 17.51%, Electric 17.27% and Plug-in Electric Hybrid 7.96%. Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting: New car sales increased again in May when compared to the same month last year, and now new cars sales are edging closer to Pre-COVID levels. Some easing of supply difficulties has resulted in improvement in delivery times, and this has led to a significant growth particularly in Electric Vehicle (EV) registrations. Year to date EV sales are now 56% ahead of last year, representing over 17% of the new car market. During the month of May nearly one-in-four new cars sold were electric, outperforming diesel sales for the month. Further analysis of the registrations highlights that when we combine Electric Vehicles, Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs) and Hybrids, which use battery technology for driving, they account for over 50% of the new car market for May. Commercial vehicle registrations both the heavy and light sectors, also demonstrated strong growth during the month. The 5 Top Selling Car Brands 2023 so far are: 1. TOYOTA, 2. VOLKSWAGEN, 3. HYUNDAI, 4. SKODA, 5. KIA The 5 Top car model’s year 2023 are: 1. HYUNDAI TUCSON, 2. KIA SPORTAGE, 3. TOYOTA COROLLA, 4. TOYOTA YARIS CROSS, 5. VOLKSWAGEN ID.4 The 5 Best Selling Electric Vehicles (EVs) Car Brands so far are: 1. VOLKSWAGEN, 2. HYUNDAI, 3. TESLA, 4. KIA, 5. BMW The Top 5 Selling Electric Vehicles (EVs) models 2023: 1. VOLKSWAGEN ID.4, 2. HYUNDAI IONIQ 5, 3. TESLA MODEL Y, 4. SKODA ENYAQ, 5. KIA EV6 Top Selling Car (May) 2023: TOYOTA COROLLA Top Selling Electric Car (May) 2023: VOLKSWAGEN ID.4 Market share by engine type 2023 (YTD): Petrol 32.36%, Diesel 22.17%, Hybrid 17.51%, Electric 17.27%, Plug-In Hybrid 7.96%

Paddy Magee, Country Operations Director of Renault Group Ireland, was elected President of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) at the organisation’s AGM held recently in Killashee Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare. Speaking at the event, Paddy Magee President of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry commented that “As President I look forward to working even more closely with the Society over the next 12 months. My focus will be on continuing the work already undertaken in helping to position the Motor Industry as a leader and enabler of the green transition. The Motor Industry remains fully committed to working with Government to help achieve their Climate Action Targets. The industry is playing its part in the electrification process, and we need to build on the momentum already in the marketplace, with the right economic and taxation environment to support the uptake of new zero and low emissions vehicles.” Mr. Magee continued “We are already starting to see a reduction in EV support. Our primary focus is on Budget 2024 ensuring EV incentives/supports are maintained, No VRT/VAT increases and to see the BIK’s recent reliefs extended for the foreseeable future. Company vehicles will play a key role in helping to escalate the transition of electrification of the fleet, by increasing the number of new vehicles, we can also help supply and secure the used EVs market in the future.” Mr. Magee has enjoyed 25 years working within the Motor Industry, 20 years with Renault Ireland remarking that “I have yet to see one year which has been normal and without challenges, but I would also say that these challenges have always brought opportunities. It is exciting times, as we are seeing many changes within our industry, the continued journey towards electrification is now joined by changes in distribution along with many daily challenges.” In conclusion Mr. Magee said he is looking forward to his term as President, servicing the membership and the industry he absolutely loves and wanted to thank members of the Society for this opportunity. Having worked with Paddy numerous times at various car launches over the years we would like to wish him all the best in this new role. For those that don't know Paddy is responsible for the Renault and Dacia brands in Ireland and a network of 33 dealerships around the country. The Wicklow native has worked in the Motor Industry for 25 years, 20 years with Renault Ireland. A graduate of DIT Bolton Street, Paddy was Sales Director of Renault Ireland until he was appointed as the group’s Country Operations Director in 2013. This year Paddy celebrates a decade of leadership with the Renault & Dacia Ireland, working alongside an excellent team and an extensive dealer network which employs over 600 people and are currently the 3rd largest network in the industry for Passenger Cars & Light Commercial vehicles. Paddy has previously served as Chairperson of the SIMI’s Vehicle Distributors Committee and is a current member of the Society’s Management Board.

We all know cars can break down due to a variety of reasons including: engine issues, battery problems, transmission failure, overheating, and general wear and tear. It's important to properly maintain and care for your vehicle to reduce the risk of breakdowns. Take a puncture for example or perhaps running out of fuel! Who do you call, what do you do, and more importantly where is it safe to pull over? On your average back road its pretty straight forward in the sense that if you feel a problem with your vehicle you can usually find a safe spot to pull over and make the necessary checks or phone calls. What’s not so simple is when something goes wrong on the motorway! Here we highlight a few things you should do to ensure you deal with a motorway breakdown as safely as possible. 1. Slow down. If you feel a change in your car’s performance indicating you may break down, start to decrease your speed, but don’t slam on the brakes as it could cause a collision. Instead, slowly lift off of the accelerator and indicate to your left to signal your direction of travel all whilst using calm, controlled braking to slow down gradually. 2. When to use the hard shoulder Do use the hard shoulder if your car literally won’t go any further and you can’t safely drive to a place further off the motorway. Don’t use the hard shoulder to stop for any other purpose than an emergency, and that includes toilet breaks, snack breaks or to make a non-breakdown related phone call. It is not really safe to use the hard shoulder to stop for any other purpose than an emergency 3. Stopping safely on the hard shoulder Do continue to indicate as you prepare to stop as far to the left as possible. It is recommended that you turn your wheels to the left and put your hazard and sidelights on. If for any reason brakes became an issue or the car was hit from the rear the wheels locked to the left should prevent the car from entering the busy motorway. Don’t park over towards the right hand side of the shoulder, switch off your lights or clamber out via the driver’s side, otherwise you risk being hit by traffic. 4. What to do once safely parked after a motorway breakdown Do get out of the car via the driver’s side and ensure your passengers all do the same, whatever the weather. Don’t take your seatbelts off, and sit inside the car while you wait for help to arrive. If for any reason you physically can’t leave the car, then you must have your hazards on. Find the nearest emergency phone on your side of the road to call the emergency services or your breakdown service. 5. Once out of the vehicle Do get off the hard shoulder and stand on the embankment. Then use your mobile, or find the nearest emergency phone on your side of the road, to call the emergency services or your breakdown service. Don’t in any circumstances walk across the motorway to use that tantalisingly close emergency phone you’ve spotted on the other side, it’s both illegal and highly dangerous. Of course nobody wants or sets out to have a breakdown and we hope you don’t ever have to put these tips into practice, but preparation is key to dealing with unexpected car trouble on a back road or motorway. Carry out regular vehicle checks including inspecting the condition of wiper blades, ensure all light bulbs are working and check oil, anti-freeze, water levels are sufficient. In addition, make sure that all tyres (including the spare tyre!) have sufficient air and meet the legal minimum thread depth of 1.6mm. At DoneDeal we advise that you have the best emergency service breakdown cover possible under your car insurance policy for that extra peace of mind!

Renowned car dealer Brady’s of Castleknock has become the latest addition to the CUPRA network in Dublin, building a state of the art showroom for a unique customer experience. Brady’s of Castleknock, the new home for CUPRA customers in north Dublin and beyond, is a family owned and operated business dating back to 1973. Founded by Cavan-based brothers Gerry, Philip and Thomas Brady, the renowned retail site extends to more than two acres and is graced by two modern showrooms plus a fully glazed workshop. With their many years’ experience in the premium marketplace, Brady’s will be of tremendous benefit to CUPRA in the midst of what is an exciting period for the brand. Brady’s will provide a dedicated CUPRA area that will display the brand’s innovative product range. Meanwhile, customers are assigned a dedicated CUPRA Specialist who is their sole point of contact throughout the sales and aftersales process, ensuring a bespoke and premium personal service. The team at Brady’s will be headed by CUPRA Manager Joe Gantley and CUPRA Master Gary Coleman, both of whom will drive sales with Brady’s loyal customer base and beyond. Enda Conefrey, Dealer Principal Brady’s of Castleknock, said: “We are thrilled to be part of the birth of the CUPRA brand worldwide and especially here in Castleknock, Dublin. We look forward to combining our vast experience with the energy and drive of CUPRA to deliver another success story for Brady’s of Castleknock and CUPRA Ireland." Throughout its 48-year history, Brady’s of Castleknock has invested heavily in its people and premises. A multi-million euro development completed in 2016 doubled the footprint of the site. Meanwhile, the business has prepared for the transition to electric mobility by investing in on-site charging as well as electric vehicle-focused technical and sales training for all staff. The business has also invested in PV Solar Power generation on the buildings as well as embracing advances in recycling of tyres, batteries, fluids, plastics, metals and packaging materials. Gaspar Alcaide, Brand Director for CUPRA Ireland said: “The addition of Brady’s CUPRA to our dealer network is a significant statement of intent for CUPRA in the Dublin market. Brady’s of Castleknock is ideally positioned to bring the CUPRA brand’s rapidly expanding and exciting range of electric and hybrid models to market as we continue our upward trajectory. The team at Brady’s has a reputation for premium quality and excellent customer service; values that are extremely important to us here at CUPRA.” Since its launch in 2018, the CUPRA brand has gone from strength to strength, developing a range of high performance and technologically advanced vehicles, including the 100% electric CUPRA Born, CUPRA Leon and CUPRA Formentor (both available with plug-in hybrid powertrains) and the CUPRA Ateca SUV. From all at DoneDeal we wish Brady's every success with the CUPRA appointment.

The Tullamore show and FBD National Livestock has launched the Sustainable Livestock Village and the Sustainable Farmer Awards for 2023. The launch took place in the FBD Headquarters with Minister Pippa Hackett officially launching this inaugural project. This event was attended by several representatives from the key agencies involved in the project, including FBD and Tullamore Show personnel. The introduction of a Sustainable Livestock Village provides a relevant and timely platform for farmers to learn more about practices that can further boost the sustainability performance of their farms. The Sustainable Livestock Village will see key agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, Teagasc, Bord Bia, ICBF, Animal Health Ireland, Meat industry Ireland and Dairy Industry Ireland working together to deliver clear, practical advice to farmers in relation to sustainability practices that can be adopted on their farm and highlight the supports available. The Village will also include a Sustainable Farmer Awards, which will recognise beef and lamb farmers that have adopted best practice across a range of sustainability areas. They will showcase how farmers across different beef and lamb farming systems have implemented sustainability practices and highlight the impact they’ve had in terms of the environmental and economic performance on their farms. Joe Molloy Chairman of the Tullamore Show & FBD National Livestock Show welcomed everyone to the event and he stated: “We believe that the National Livestock Show is the perfect platform, with well over 60,000 people attending annually". He highlighted how this project started from a brief discussion back in 2022 and we are proud of how it has evolved, and he concluded by stating “Sustainable practices are the foundation of the future”. Minister Pippa Hackett delivered an informative speech outlining what different elements of Sustainability mean at farm level. The Minister highlighted that “the real sweet spot is for a farmer to be able to deliver environmental sustainability alongside economic sustainability, where the economics of the farm enterprise are such that it will be able continue for a long time”. The event concluded by Chief commercial officer of FBD, John Cahalan stating how climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss have become urgent issues for the world we live in today and he wished all involved the very best of luck with this new venture as we look forward to this year’s show. The Show will take place on Sunday 13 th August 2023 at the Butterfield Estate.

This week we have learnt that a new Opel Corsa is inbound powered by completely new electric and hybrid powertrains. This newcomer will take Opel’s already strong offering in the small car segment, to the next level when it arrives in Ireland in late 2023. The new Opel Corsa boasts perfect proportions and precision down to the smallest detail. The most striking feature is the unmistakable Opel Vizor, the characteristic brand face that adorns every new Opel model today. The black “visor” covers the front of the Corsa and seamlessly integrates the vehicle grille, the LED headlights, and the central Opel Blitz in one element. Depending on the trim level, the brand logo on the front and rear is presented in eye-catching black or matt satin silver. The optical “air inlets” in the lower front bumper area are larger and more prominent than before, planting the Corsa even firmer on the road. The “break-through” C-pillar seems to allow the roof, which comes in black, depending on the trim, to float above the vehicle. The Corsa nameplate now appears in the centre of the tailgate. Grafik Grey paintwork, available for the first time for the Corsa, allows the newcomer to shine in new splendour. With new seat patterns, as well as a new shift lever and steering wheel design, the absolute interior highlight, both visually and technically, is the optional fully digital cockpit. The Snapdragon Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies features enhanced graphics and multimedia capabilities to provide a more integrated, intuitive cockpit system that evolves to meet its passengers’ preferences. The navigation system offers connected services, “Hey Opel” natural speech recognition and over-the-air updates. The 10-inch colour touchscreen displays driver information even more clearly so that all important info can be viewed in a fraction of a second. Notably, for the first time, compatible smartphones connect to the vehicle's multimedia systems and also recharge, both wirelessly. Driving and manoeuvring in the new Corsa is even more relaxed thanks to the new, high-resolution panoramic rear-view camera with flank-guard, matched to adaptive cruise control, speed limiter and forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. The new Corsa benefits from the latest generation adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux LED® matrix lights. A total of 14 instead of eight individually controllable LED elements ensure a stadium-bright driving experience that now “cuts out” other road users even more precisely than before. Opel will become a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028. With twelve models already electrified today in the Opel portfolio, the Corsa was the pioneer. The new Corsa Electric now takes this to the next level, with a wider choice, more power, an improved battery and more range. It will come with two electric drive options and will be offered with 136hp and an improved range of up to 357km, as well as with 156hp and up to 402km range (WLTP). When the Corsa Electric needs to be recharged, it can be done quickly at a fast charger; the battery reaches up to 80% of its total capacity in just 30 minutes (20-80%). For the first time, Opel will also offer customers the option of switching to hybrids with a 48-volt system. The 100hp and 136hp engines come with a new dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the future, they will complement the wide range of economical drive variants from highly efficient combustion engines to the all-electric Corsa Electric, thus consistently continuing the electrification of the brand. As always when prices and final equipment levels are announced, we will publish the details immediately.