Poll finds electric car 'confusion'

CONSUMER confusion is the main reason why electric car sales have failed to spark, according to a survey of motorists. Lack of understanding about the practicalities of electric cars is deepest among those keen to buy one, the survey by market research company GfK Automotive found. Just 8% of the 3,161 motorists polled said they would definitely or probably buy an electric car at some stage.

Toyota Auris revised and Icon Plus trim added – price from £14,495

The 2014 Toyota Auris (pictured) gets a bit of a makeover Toyota has decided it’s time to make a few tweaks to the Auris – nearly 2 years on from its debut –  so both the Hatch and Estate are getting changes, the hybrid version gets more trim options and there’s a new trim level – Auris Icon Plus. The Auris Icon Plus comes with a new set of 16″ alloys, privacy glass, folding electric door mirrors and the option of a new Tungsten Blue Metallic. Inside, the Icon Plus gets heated front sports seats, the new Toyota Touch 2 with SatNav and cruise control (but only on the petrol and hybrid versions.

Ford cars become personal valets

It's alive! Well, sort of. Ford has developed a car that can not only seek out empty parking spots, but park itself, too—all sans driver.