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It’s a particularly busy time of the year on Irish roads motorists driving home this Christmas should be weary of driving tired as many experience festive exhaustion during this time of year. It is essential to ensure they get enough sleep before heading on long journeys, as data reveals sleeping less than seven hours does increase the risks of crashing. Road accidents tend to see a spike in the run-up to Christmas, and while this can be due to increased traffic volume, driver fatigue also has a big part to play as it’s estimated that 10 to 20% of crashes happen because of tired driving.    Christmas is a busy time for all of us and the stress from frequent holiday gatherings, Christmas shopping and planning can cause a lot of people to feel exhausted and sleep deprived. It’s important for drivers to make sure they’re well rested before getting behind the wheel, and if you have had only five to six hours of sleep compared to the your usual recommended eight hours, plan your journey a little different.   By taking a break for at least 15 minutes on long journeys every two hours you can reduce the possibility of having a crash on monotonous roads such as motorways. Motorway driving and the many driver aids our cars are fitted with can lead to a lack of driver stimulation, potentially leading to micro-sleeping behind the wheel. Micro-sleeping happens when tired drivers nod off for up to 30 seconds and more people have reported having this experience.   Eating can also exacerbate fatigue and drowsiness, so it’s best to let the food settle for a few hours after eating a big Christmas meal at a festive gathering. While fatigued driving is a danger throughout the whole year, the risks are further increased during the Christmas season as many people struggle with festive burnout. The standard signs of fatigue such as excessive yawning and heavy eyelids should leave you under no illusions that you might be too tired to drive!   Where possible, end your night a little earlier or go to bed an hour or two earlier before a long car journey should make a big difference. Ultimately spending time with all your loved ones safely is the goal and from all of the team here in DoneDeal we want to wish you a Merry Christmas. For our complete driving home for Christmas guide please click here.

A reimagined Frontera is on the way and we have had a first drive!   The Frontera name from Opel will return to Irish roads in 2025 and we have been out to the Balearic Islands for an initial test drive. First of all, let's set a little context with the Frontera name. The original SUV launched in 1991 was a rugged 4x4 available in a short wheel base with a removable hardtop/soft-top option, or a long wheel base 5-door variant both of which, were suitable for off-road adventures. It was popular for its practicality and the fact that it blended utility with affordability in comparison to some of its more pricer rivals. The Frontera came about through a joint partnership with Isuzu and now the current parent company of Opel, Stellantis have decided to bring the namesake back in a new partnership agreement. Sharing much of the same underpinnings as the new Citroen C3 Aircross the Frontera is not what we expected but it’s still very easy on the eye. Measuring 4,385mm long, 1,795mm wide and sitting 1,635mm tall it is a mid sized SUV of sizeable proportions and not far off the original Frontera LWB which, was 4,657mm in length. Up front, the Opel wing signature sits proudly on the stylish vizor design grill flanked either side by three lighting blocks separated with body-coloured insets. The side profile looks modern with curves that compliment and rugged wheel arches for a solid look. Moving around to the rear, I half hoped the spare wheel would be tailgate mounted as a nod to the Frontera of old but modern design dictates that aerodynamic efficiency must prevail over nostalgia. Instead you get a clean tailgate with modern LED lights and no intrusions that might reduce drag coefficient numbers. Inside it’s all very modern and minimalist with decent quality plastics and the patented Intelli-Seats first seen in the new Grandland. These have been specifically designed to relieve pressure on the tailbone area and they are super comfy! It’s a simple driver focused cabin with two 10-inch displays and a multi function steering wheel with all the necessities at your finger tips. Space is plentiful also with 23 litres of internal storage, plus 460 litres of boot space. In fact if you drop the rear seats you can avail of a whopping 1,600 litres of storage. Opel have suggested we will also see a 7-seater variant in the not so distant future!   With a turn of the good old traditional key, we set off first in the mild Hybrid to see how it performed over the mountains of Mallorca. Our test car had the 1.2 litre 136hpturbocharged petrol engine paired with a 28hp electric motor and an electrified six-speed dual clutch transmission. It pulled smooth and efficiently away from traffic lights and worked harmlessly with its battery to fill in power flat spots from the engine with electricity when needed. It’s quiet also which is nice considering some Hybrids tend to work the engine at high RPM too often to charge the on board battery. We were told the engineers in Rüsselsheim paid close attention to optimising body control in an effort to deliver typical Opel driving characteristics but to us, it simply felt surefooted and competent with little to no body roll.   Day two gave us an opportunity to spend time with the electric version which, has a 113hpelectric motor and offers a limited top speed of 140km/h. The 44kWh battery is not the largest in this class but it’s still good for up to 305km of range. Driving it felt different in the sense that you can feel the extra 170kg of weight through the corners but the power was adequate with that smooth linear delivery that electric vehicles are famed for. Our route was a mixture of mountains and motorway and energy usage of 17.6 kWh/100km was displayed on the dash after a few hours of testing. At this rate we never needed to avail of public charging facilities where the Frontera could have taken a 100kW DC fast-charging session to deliver 80% capacity, in just 26 minutes. So where does the Frontera sit in the Opel range and what is it replacing? Well, it will effectively replace the current Crossland and sit firmly between Mokka and Grandland. A lower powered 100hp mild hybrid and long range 400km+ electric version will also join the lineup. Overall it’s an impressive vehicle but its success will be purely down to price. In this busy category there are plenty of offerings so Opel will have to hit the sweet spot with this one. The original Frontera faced criticism for average on-road handling, reliability issuescompared to rivals but despite these drawbacks, it still sold well. Today's world is a very different place and with impressive handling, a comfortable interior and stylish design, Opel could be on to something to the new Frontera.

Volkswagen Ireland is delighted to announce that JAB Auto Holdings Ltd is to become the latest addition to its nationwide network of retailers. This exciting partnership will support up to 20 jobs at a showroom located on Cork Road in Waterford's renowned “Motor Mile”. Designed by EMD Architects, the development consists of a state-of-the-art showroom, offering more than 500 square meters of space dedicated to Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The site also features a workshop with more than 20 ramps, significantly enhancing JAB Auto Holdings Ltd’s capacity to meet the service needs of Volkswagen customers in the greater Waterford area. Roles spanning sales and aftersales positions for both Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be filled by a blend of new recruits and highly qualified, experienced staff. Volkswagen Ireland places a strong emphasis on training and development to maintain the highest standards of performance and customer satisfaction across its network. This new venture with JAB Auto Holdings Ltd is no exception, with both parties aiming to deliver exceptional service quality and consistency. Alan Bateson, Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland, said: “JAB Auto Holdings Ltd, which forms part of the Boland Group, is synonymous with excellence in customer care in Waterford and beyond. I am delighted they have agreed to become the latest addition to our nationwide network of retailers and look forward to working closely with the team as they showcase Volkswagen vehicles, starting with our 251 models that are available to order now.” JAB Auto Holdings Ltd.’s Dealer Principal James Boland said: "We are delighted to be appointed as the new Volkswagen Passenger and Commercial Vehicle partner in Waterford. This exciting opportunity enables us to offer Volkswagen’s renowned quality, innovation, and exceptional service to the region through our dedicated team. Our commitment is to deliver an outstanding customer experience while strengthening Volkswagen’s presence in Waterford. We look forward to welcoming customers and supporting them with exceptional vehicles and aftersales care." The new Volkswagen Waterford showroom is set to open to the public in January. For more information and to place orders for the 251-registration period.

Month: 22 Units +16% change (compared with November 2023) Year to Date: 1,796 Units -13% change (compared with November 2023) The latest FTMTA Statistics Service Report for November 2024 shows a reduced level of activity in the farm machinery sector in Ireland with new tractor registrations continuing in a downward trend. The numbers of imported used tractors and machines, registered for the first time in Ireland, remained stable compared with the same month of November 2023. Tractors The November 2024 new tractor market at 22 units was 16% higher compared with the same month in 2023. There were 1,796 new tractors registered in the year-to-date, a 13% decline compared with the first eleven months of 2023. County Cork continues to deliver the highest number of new tractor registrations at 229 units for the year-to-date, while Tipperary is ranked in second place with 159 units followed by Meath and Wexford in third place at 103 units each. The most popular power band was the 141 to 160hp category, which for November 2024 accounted for 22.73% of all new tractor registrations for the month. Tractors in the power band lower than 100hp rose to 31.82% of all new tractor registrations, a higher percentage than for the same month in 2023. The over 200hp category accounted for 9.1% of all new tractors. The monthly average tractor horsepower figure for November 2024 dropped to 122hp and the largest tractor registered was rated at 260hp. The FTMTA data shows that 214 imported used tractors were first-time registered in Ireland in November 2024, 26 units less than in November 2023. For the year to date, 2,549 used tractors were imported and registered for the first time, a 4.8% decline. Telescopic Loaders The Irish market for new telescopic loaders reported an 65% increase in November 2024 at 33 units compared with November 2023 when 20 units were registered. The year-to-date market shows a 0.83% increase in registrations. The two leading brands JCB and Manitou account for 70% of the total new market, while Kramer is ranked third with a healthy 12% market share. There were 43 imported used telescopic loaders registered in November 2024. Wheeled Loaders The Irish wheeled loader market recorded a slightly higher number of new registrations in November 2024 at 5 units, compared with November 2023, while the year-to-date market decreased by 20.41%. The position of the smaller Chinese manufactured machines increased to 59% of the total year-to-date new wheeled loader registrations in Ireland. There were 5 imported used wheeled loaders registered in Ireland in November 2024. Backhoe Loaders There was just 1 new backhoe loader registered in November 2024 compared with November 2023 when no new machines were registered. There were 5 used backhoe loaders registered in November 2024 in Ireland. UTV Registrations There were 13 new UTV’s registered in Ireland in November 2024, with just two used imported UTV registered for the first time. For the year-to-date 278 new UTV’s were registered in Ireland. New & Used Tractor Registrations by Month Ireland November 2024 – FTMTA Month New Tractors Registrations Month Used Tractor Registrations January 431 January 202 February 231 February 225 March 216 March 245 April 191 April 263 May 161 May 302 June 60 June 202 July 237 July 264 August 111 August 213 September 77 September 206 October 59 October 223 November 22 November 214 December December Total 1527 Total 2549 The FTMTA Statistics Service Reports are compiled from monthly raw data received only from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, which is responsible for all first-time registrations of new and used vehicles in Ireland. For more information contact: Michael Farrelly, Executive Director Tel: 045-409309 Email: info@ftmta.ie Issued by FTMTA Statistics Service – 12 December 2024

In response to sustained customer demand, INEOS Automotive has launched a new two-seat version of its Grenadier Quartermaster pick-up. The two-seat Quartermaster features an 850-litre flat-floored interior cargo area behind the front seats. A robust floor-to-roof cargo barrier behind the seats ensures stored cargo remains secure in transit.    The two-seat variant will be built on the same production line as the Grenadier Station Wagon and the five-seat Quartermaster at INEOS Automotive’s assembly plant at Hambach. It will only be available in standard trim and can be easily configured with a range of option packages. All Grenadier Quartermaster pick-ups are included in the commercial N1 vehicle classification. Prices starting from €63,780 RRP, excluding VAT. As a two-seat pick-up, the latest variant of the Quartermaster is exempt from local taxes applicable to passenger vehicles in the initial launch markets of France, Benelux and Ireland, with more markets set to be announced.    The two-seat Quartermaster’s additional interior cargo area complements the five-seat model’s already impressive load-lugging capabilities. Sitting on an extended 3227mm wheelbase – 305mm longer than the Station Wagon wheelbase – the Quartermaster has a 1,564mm long and 1,619mm wide pick-up load bay ensuring it can carry a standard 1,200mm x 800mm Euro pallet with ease.    With a payload of up to 835kg and the same 3,500kg towing capacity as the Station Wagon, an integrated mounting bar, and a wide 1,280mm tailgate that can support up to 225kg when open, the Quartermaster offers users everyday cargo-lugging versatility.    The two-seat Quartermaster retains the model’s class-leading off-road capabilities, with 264mm of ground clearance, an 800mm wading depth and approach, breakover and departure angles unrivalled by any other series production pick-up.    Lynn Calder, CEO, INEOS Automotive, said: “ We’ve listened to customers who said they really wanted a two-seat pick-up with a secure load area inside the cabin. It’s testament to the versatility of the platform that new variants can be developed quite quickly if there’s sufficient demand, and I’m sure we’ll see more variations of our core product lines in future. ”

Irish farmers seeking reliable, high-performance bale choppers need look no further than the Kverneland 853 Pro . This machine is designed to simplify the demanding tasks of feeding and bedding, delivering efficiency, reliability, and ease of use for farmers working with straw, hay, and silage. Here’s why the Kverneland 853 Pro is an invaluable tool for your farm. Blockage-Free Performance and High-Quality Features The Kverneland 853 Pro is packed with innovative features tailored to meet the needs of modern farmers. From its redesigned flywheel  to the 4-stage swivelling chute  and the patented drum feed control system , this machine ensures smooth operation even under heavy workloads. With its 3m³ bale chamber , the 853 Pro can accommodate the largest square bales or up to two round bales, offering flexibility and capacity. For those requiring even greater capability, the Kverneland 856 Pro  comes equipped with a two-drum system capable of handling up to three round bales. The hallmark funnel design bale chamber  ensures an efficient material flow, reducing the risk of blockages and optimizing distribution. Whether you’re managing straw, silage, or hay, the Kverneland 853 Pro delivers consistent, reliable results. Exceptional Blowing Distance and Material Distribution The Kverneland 853 Pro offers unmatched blowing performance, capable of delivering material up to 20 metres . This is thanks to its 1.55m diameter flywheel  equipped with six powerful paddles. The design allows for the effective distribution of straw for bedding, as well as precise feeding of silage and hay. The two-speed gearbox  provides flexibility, with high speed ensuring powerful material discharge for bedding and low speed offering gentle feed placement. This adaptability is especially beneficial for farmers managing both covered yard bedding and feeding tasks. Innovative Drum-Knife Configuration A standout feature of the Kverneland 853 Pro is its unique drum-knife configuration , which ensures even cutting and feeding of materials. The knives, mounted on angled rings, pass through a fixed comb on alternating sides, promoting even discharge and reducing the risk of blockages. This configuration allows for customization, with the standard 14 blades expandable to 42 blades, depending on the material type. The patented system guarantees efficient chopping and smooth operation across a variety of farming applications. User-Friendly and Time-Saving Design The Kverneland 853 Pro is designed with the farmer in mind. Its hydraulically operated rear door  enables self-loading of round or square bales, saving time and effort. The large bale chamber makes it easy to load up to two round bales simultaneously, enhancing productivity. Additionally, the swivelling chute  provides greater control over material distribution, even in hard-to-reach areas. With 260° rotation  and an adjustable end flap, you can direct material precisely where it’s needed, whether for bedding or feeding. Durability and Performance You Can Trust Kverneland’s commitment to quality shines through in every aspect of the 853 Pro. The robust design ensures reliable performance, while features like the self-adjusting chute tray  guarantee seamless operation across different materials. For farmers dealing with harsh Irish weather conditions and demanding workloads, the 853 Pro delivers the durability and versatility needed to get the job done efficiently. 0% Finance Available – Contact Your Local Dealer Investing in the Kverneland 853 Pro is a smart choice for Irish farmers seeking to improve efficiency and productivity. With 0% finance available , upgrading your equipment has never been easier. Contact your local Kverneland dealer today  to learn more about this exceptional bale chopper and how it can transform your feeding and bedding operations. For more information on the  Kverneland  853 Pro,  click here , or contact a member of its team below: John Doyle: Product manager Harvest – 087 147 5137; Greg Tennyson: Area south – 087 700 9689; Allan Hetherington: Area north – 0044 7826 544 630. With the Kverneland 853 Pro, you’re not just investing in a machine—you’re investing in a more efficient, productive, and hassle-free future for your farm.

According to the most recent survey, petrol prices have risen by 1 cent to an average of €1.74 per litre, while diesel prices have increased by 3 cents this month to €1.71 per litre. Crude oil prices remain steady month on month at around $73 per barrel. Electric vehicle owners can expect to pay an average of €816.62 per year to cover an average of 17,000 km per year.  Jennifer Kilduff, Head of Marketing & PR for the AA (Ireland), said,   "Fuel prices have increased again this month which is disappointing to see. For EV drivers there was also a slight increase in the average yearly costs and the advice would be to continue to look at energy providers rates and select a plan that best suits your needs. For example, there are offers available with Energia at the moment on the EV Smart Drive plan providing low rates of 7.54c/kWh for charging between 2am and 6am plus you can get €50 cashback. It’s always a good idea for customers to compare the estimated annual bill when doing their research.” It is worth keeping your vehicle properly maintained and reducing driving speed this Winter can improve vehicle fuel efficiency and performance.   “The basics such as checking your tyre pressure and thread depth, fluid levels, and removing any unnecessary weight such as roof racks can contribute to better fuel efficiency and overall driving performance,” Kilduff added. For more information on the November AA Fuel Survey and tips on saving on fuel costs, visit AA Ireland's website.

Audi Ireland is pleased to announce that Audi Centre, Sandyford is the Audi Dealer of the Year for 2025. The Audi Dealer of the Year programme recognises top performances within the Audi Dealer Network in Ireland.  Commenting on the award, Leon McSherry, Audi Centre Head of Business said: “I am proud of the entire Audi Centre team for their hard work and dedication and our wonderful customers who support us. At Audi Centre, we pride ourselves on our first class customer experience. Our expert friendly sales team, along with our thorough and efficient service department, are dedicated to making your Audi buying and servicing experience as enjoyable as possible. We are proud to be named Audi Dealer of the Year for 2025, a recognition that reflects the dedication and hard work of our outstanding team here at Audi Centre.” Audi Ireland Head of Marketing and Customer Experience Deirdre Schwer added: “The Audi Dealer of the Year gives us an opportunity to reflect on the years’ work, and to highlight top performance in the Audi Dealer network. This award reflects the hard work and dedication of the Audi Centre team, their high standards in customer service across Sales and Aftersales, business performance and excellence across the board.  We at Audi Ireland would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Leon and his team on this great achievement and extend our thanks to all of our partners across the Audi Dealer network in Ireland.” Audi Centre is the authorised Audi dealership in South Dublin, comprising of new and used car sales, as well as full service and aftersales functions with an Audi Repairs and Service Centre and Audi Genuine Parts and Accessories.

Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist ,  and Motor expert. The Škoda transition to electric propulsion continues with the recent introduction of the all-new Elroq to the Irish media in Palma Mallorca. This compact electric SUV aims to blend practicality, efficiency and Škoda’s signature design language to give possible buyers another option in a rather competitive segment.Taking on rivals like the new KIA EV3, Renault Scenic, and the BYD Atto 3 will be no mean feat, so what exactly can we expect from the Elroq in terms of aesthetics, comfort levels and performance? Well, at first glance, the Škoda Elroq showcases a modern and robust design that looks beefy on the road. For comparison it is longer, taller and wider than the current combustion powered Karoq that we are all familiar with. The exterior features sharp lines, an aggressive front fascia, and distinctive 4-pack cluster of daytime running lights that will no doubt make it instantly recognisable on Irish roads. The glossy black Tech-Deck Face replaces the typical Škoda grille and whilst not functional in the traditional sense, it does add to the SUV's character.  The side profile features sculpted lines and sloping roofline that gives the vehicle a sizeable road presence. It will be available in a range of nine vibrant colours including the striking Temiana green, which our test car was wearing. The interior is equally impressive, combining functionality and practicality. Many high-quality materials, some of which are made using recycled plastics and nets have been used on the soft-touch surfaces. The dashboard is dominated by a 13-inch infotainment touchscreen with SmartLink that integrates seamlessly with the digital cockpit, providing easy access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The Elroq also boasts ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it an ideal choice for families or those who prioritise comfort. Opening the automatic tailgate reveals the largest boot in its segment with 470 litres of luggage capacity and up to 1,580 litres with the rear seats folded down should you need the additional space. Something else to note is multiple clever compartments offering a further 48 litres of storage capacity including a net for the charging cable under the parcel shelf! So what does it drive like? As the Škoda Elroq is built on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform it does drive very similar to its VW counterparts for which, many of the underpinnings are shared. Where it feels quite strong is on build quality and the sheer silence occupants can enjoy thanks to impressive sound deadening. There are no squeaks or rattles from any area of the cabin! With three different battery sizes and powertrains we got to experience the long range Elroq 85 that can cover a maximum range of more than 560 kilometres.This particular vehicle was priced at €42,315 after rebates and delivery charges and it drove particularly well over the challenging three hour test drive loop. The electric motor delivers immediate torque, resulting in brisk acceleration that made merging onto Mallorca motorways a breeze! The SUV's suspension is well-tuned, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease and the low centre of gravity with sharp steering contributes to decent road handling and a feeling of stability through corners. Entry into Elroq 50 ownership will start from €36,545 with a range of 370 kilometres. Stepping up a level to the Elroq 60 sees an increase in range to 440 kilometres and a price tag from €38,416. Sportline variants of the 60 and 85 will naturally push the price up with a higher level of spec. All models are rear wheel drive but in time, an all-wheel drive Elroq 85x will join the range. Expect charging rates of up to 175 kW at DC fast-charging stations that enable the 82 kWh battery of the Elroq 85 to recharge from 10% to 80% in 28 minutes. Naturally safety is also a top priority for Škoda also and the Elroq is no exception. The SUV comes packed with an extensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. Like in most new vehicles, these technologies work together to provide peace of mind for both driver and passengers. We think it is safe to say the Škoda Elroq is a commendable addition to the electric SUV market here in Ireland. Price wise, it is positioned competitively within its segment and not only will it do well against its competitors, we believe it to be a better option to the similarly sized, combustion powered Karoq from the Škoda family. With its striking design, comfortable interior, impressive range, Škoda has once again demonstrated its ability to deliver quality vehicles that cater to the needs of Irish drivers.

Mitsubishi Motors Ireland are pleased to announce the appointment of two new authorised aftersales dealer locations, reinforcing our commitment to providing exceptional care and expertise to Mitsubishi drivers nationwide. The newly appointed dealers, Frank Keane Drogheda, located on North Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth, and Doyle’s Garage on Coast Road, Courtown, Gorey, Co. Wexford, are now part of Mitsubishi Motors Ireland’s trusted network of aftersales support. With Mitsubishi-trained technicians, genuine parts backed by a two-year warranty, and comprehensive knowledge of Mitsubishi vehicles, customers can trust they are in the best hands. In addition, complimentary roadside assistance is offered to all Mitsubishi customers for vehicles up to 10 years old if the vehicle is serviced in an authorised dealer. Both new locations are dedicated to maintaining the reliability, safety, and performance of Mitsubishi vehicles, providing peace of mind to drivers through authorised aftersales care. Mitsubishi vehicles are backed by a comprehensive eight-year warranty, ensuring long-term confidence and protection for drivers. These new authorised dealers are fully equipped to support vehicles under warranty and beyond, delivering expert care for Mitsubishi owners and their vehicles. For more information on Mitsubishi Motors Ireland’s authorised aftersales network, visit www.mitsubishi-motors.ie . To find Mitsubishi vehciles currently for sale in Ireland, please visit DoneDeal.ie

Ford Ireland is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the iconic Ford Mustang in style with the launch of the ultimate novelty knit this Christmas. In an exclusive collaboration with sustainable Irish fashion label Fresh Cuts Clothing, Ford has created a limited-edition collection of Mustang Christmas jumpers in aid of My Lovely Horse Rescue, an Irish charity dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need.    The Ford Mustang is more than just a car—it’s a cultural icon that has captured hearts and imaginations for six decades. Renowned for its style, power, and enduring legacy, the Mustang has inspired everything from music to movies and now, festive fashion. Putting the conventional ‘ugly Christmas jumpers’ to shame, Ford has designed these geansaís with sustainability and style in mind - the limited-edition jumpers offer fans a chance to wear their Mustang with pride while giving back to the community.    The limited-edition Mustang Christmas jumpers will be available exclusively online through the Fresh Cuts website. With all proceeds donated to My Lovely Horse Rescue, every jumper sold helps provide vital support for animal rescue efforts across Ireland. For fans of the Mustang and festive fashion alike, the campaign offers a perfect gift option for the season.    Ford’s partnership with Fresh Cuts highlights the shared values of sustainability and community impact. “At Ford, we believe in driving change that matters—whether it’s through our vehicles or initiatives like this one,” says John Manning, Market Lead, Ford Ireland .  “The Mustang Christmas jumper campaign is a unique way to honour the legacy of the Mustang while making a tangible difference for a great cause. We’re proud to partner with Fresh Cuts and My Lovely Horse Rescue for this festive initiative.”     Speaking about the campaign, Cathy Davey, Co-Founder of My Lovely Horse Rescue says,  “This time of year is always especially challenging for us as we work tirelessly to care for neglected and abandoned animals. Every purchase of a Ford Mustang Christmas jumper will help us rescue and rehabilitate more horses, dogs, pigs and other animals. We’re incredibly grateful to Ford Ireland and Fresh Cuts for their support—it’s a wonderful way to make a difference this Christmas.”     Celebrate 60 years of Mustang and make a difference this Christmas. The Mustang Christmas jumpers (€100) are available from Friday, 6th December on freschcutsclothing.com . With limited stock, early purchase is encouraged to avoid disappointment.

Ford has revealed the latest member of its electric vehicle line-up – Puma Gen-E – bringing zero emission driving to Ford’s best-selling car in Europe for the first time. The electric Puma Gen-E reenergises the fun to drive character and evolves the distinctive Puma exterior design that have made the compact crossover a hit with customers across Europe. A new electric powertrain supercharges the Puma driving experience and delivers exceptional efficiency of 13.1 kWh/100 km. Puma Gen-E offers up to 376 km on a full charge so that long journeys are well within reach, while up to 523 km of city range means days of charge-free urban trips. Connected to a fast charger, a 10-80 per cent charge takes approximately 23 minutes, while seamless acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 8.0 seconds and quicker steering response delivers the essence of Puma ST in electric form. For the busy city dweller or young family, Puma Gen-E offers even greater space efficiency thanks to the compact electric powertrain. Puma’s innovative MegaBox boot storage space has been boosted to become GigaBox, meaning up to 574 litres of room for luggage with the rear seats in place – more than some larger SUVs can offer. A 43-litre frunk makes good use of the space vacated by the petrol engine, ideal for storing accessories so they can be retrieved even if the boot is full. The exterior design captures the spirit of the latest-generation Puma with twists that make it more distinctive and aerodynamic. A bold “shield” design replaces the conventional grille, giving a fresh face and taking inspiration from the Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV. A sporty rear spoiler and unique alloy wheel designs add to the electric vibe, and help the electric Puma slice through the air more efficiently for even better performance. Inside, the crisp and modern design continues with two high-definition display screens within easy reach of the driver so they always feel in control. Ford’s latest generation SYNC 4 infotainment system has cloud-connected navigation to give Puma Gen-E the edge over city traffic, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto meaning apps and information sync between smartphones and the car without using cables. Alexa Built-in allows drivers to use voice commands to find out when their favourite restaurant is open or add items to their shopping list. The new, raised centre console provides convenient storage space to put those personal items that would otherwise clutter up pockets. The armrest slides to find the most comfortable position on a long cruise, and there’s wireless phone charging so phones are topped up at the end of the journey. Puma Gen-E also makes driving easier in and out of the city. A simplified electronic shifter behind the steering wheel makes switching between drive, neutral and reverse as effortless as reaching for the indicators, with fingertip control.  Selectable one-pedal driving makes floating through city traffic even more convenient no matter which of the four drive modes you are cruising in. Available Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Centring accelerates and brakes smoothly to feel more natural, and can use Predictive Speed Assist to adjust cruising speed for curves in the road, roundabouts, and when entering or leaving highways. In the city, an available 360-degree surround-view camera system can display a bird’s eye view for getting in and out of those awkward multistorey spaces. Optional Dynamic Matrix LED headlight technology uses Predictive Dynamic Bending Light to monitor the road ahead and shine more light where it’s needed most, and adjusts the beam pattern for the best view whether crossing the city or on an unlit motorway. Built at Ford Otosan’s state of the art assembly plant in Craiova, Romania, using electric drive units built at Ford’s facility in Halewood, UK, Puma Gen-E represents another step in Ford’s electric vehicle roll-out. Puma Gen-E is available to order from today with deliveries beginning in spring 2025.