Autocar February 20, 2019

WE FREQUENTLY BEMOAN the fact that ubiquity in some modern architectures results in cars that are ‘samey’ to drive, not simply across multiple models but also multiple models from multiple brands. But the flip side is when a common architecture is so well executed that it breeds a whole range of models that star for its maker. This could soon be the case for Ford and its new Focus, the first recipient of Ford’s new C2 platform and this week’s road test subject (p36). The quality of the execution of the new C2-based Focus, which makes as significant a statement as the 1998 original as a driver’s car, offers a tantalising glimpse of just how good future C2-based Fords can be. With the C2, the architecture that’s just done better,…

“Elon Musk called 2018 ‘the most pivotal year’ in Tesla’s history and 2019 will be even more important” Tesla is finalising production plans for its crucial Model Y ahead of the SUV’s unveiling later this year – and the company is hoping lessons learned from the Model 3’s “production hell” can help it capitalise on the “massive” opportunity presented by its most important new model yet. The Model Y is due to go on sale in late 2020 and design work is now complete ahead of an imminent launch. Although company boss Elon Musk has previously said on Twitter that the Model Y would be revealed in March, he later clarified that was an estimate. Even so, the firm is readying its production line and pre-production models will shortly begin…

Elon Musk described 2018 as “pivotal” for Tesla. My suggestion would be ‘tumultuous’. But through numerous Model 3 production challenges – and several controversies of Musk’s own making – the firm ended the year on a high. It is now producing and selling the Model 3 at a decent volume and the innovative machine has rightly earned praise (including from Autocar). But the firm can’t afford to celebrate. In America, it largely has the EV market to itself, but not for long – and it faces more rivals in Europe and China. Competition is coming and that competition has incredible resources and proven ability to produce cars at volumes Tesla can still only dream of. So beating those rivals in the SUV market with the Model Y is vital. Tesla…

The new Ford Focus ST will offer “the most responsive and agile Focus ST driving experience ever, on road and track”, according to the car maker, thanks to the model’s new C2 platform. On sale in the summer, this latest Focus ST is offered as a five-door hatch or estate, in petrol or diesel variants, and with a host of new technology derived from ‘halo’ models such as the Ford GT supercar and the Mustang. It is the first front-wheel-drive Ford to get an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), intended to enhance cornering stability. Rev-matching technology is available with the six-speed manual gearbox. A seven-speed automatic is also available. Selectable drive modes are another first for the Focus ST. They comprise Slippery/Wet, Normal and Sport, plus a Track mode for versions…

PRODUCTION OF THE hottest Mini yet, the new John Cooper Works GP, will start in 2020. Spy shots of the hardcore hot hatch show it will sport an extreme rear wing, aggressive bodykit and motorsport-inspired wheels. The limited-run model will arrive with over 300bhp from a four-cylinder turbo engine. Performance figures are yet to be released, but Mini is targeting a competitive Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time, which will better the 8min 23sec achieved by its predecessor. The interior of the concept version featured a rollcage and a pair of low-mounted bucket seats, with gearshifts controlled by paddles on the steering wheel. The previous JCW GP lost its rear seats but eschewed a rollcage for a rear strut brace. That’s likely to be the direction Mini will take again. Expect a…

ENGINE TUNING FIRM Swindon Powertrain will put its electric Swind E Classic Mini conversion into limited production. The Wiltshire firm will fully restore 100 classic Minis and fit them with its own electric 107bhp powertrain. The unit, which replaces the original engine and gearbox, enables 0-60mph in 9.2sec and an 80mph top speed. It’s powered by a 24kWh lithium ion battery, with 125 miles of range, and a full charge takes four hours from a Type 2 connector. Removing the petrol tank increases the boot capacity to 200 litres. The conversion adds 80kg to the total weight of the car, with the fore-aft weight distribution changing to 57:43, from 68:32 in the original. Each Swind E Classic Mini also receives new brakes with regenerative braking capacity, new suspension, underfloor heating,…