SIZE MATTERS TO SOME

We’re looking for a small electric car – no bigger than a Suzuki Swift. There are many large EVs, but what about small ones? We’ve tested a Nissan Leaf, Mini Electric and MG ZS and none are suitable. Surely others want a small EV to run around town? Will Australia get into EV production?

Margie Wilmot, email

For city EVs you need to go used. The BMW i3’s a brilliant little thing – used ones start from $35,000 – or I’ve spotted a near-new Renault Zoe in the classifieds with 300km range for $31,000. If you can wait, Peugeot’s Swift-sized (and gorgeous) e208 should land later this year for about $50,000. The Chinese BYD Atto 2 city EV is supposed to arrive this year for about $35,000, but I’d let the brand establish itself first. Australia would be a great place to manufacture EVs. A skilled workforce with automotive experience, abundant renewable energy options and reserves of lithium for batteries. But it’d need strong government support, so don’t hold your breath.

BRAND LOYALTY

Re: polarised sunglasses and head up displays (HUDs), I’d suggest the gentleman change his brand. I use HUDs on several cars – including a Mazda – wearing only Ray-Bans or Bolles. Other brands aren’t really polarised.

Ron Williams, email

My Maui Jim polarised sunglasses have taken offence. I never thought I’d be mediating disagreements on polarised glasses.

LAST CHANCE SALOON

Last week you wrote that muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang V8 won’t be with us much longer, no doubt due to heavy fuel use and being petrol only (non-electrified). Do you think these cars will become worthless or collectable due to their lack of production and therefore rarity? Get out now or get in? Dave Andrews, email

Get in, but more for the drive experience than any potential profit. The analog pleasure of three pedals, a manual gearbox and rumbling combustion engine simply isn’t offered with electric cars. Inevitable restrictions (mainly urban), taxes and higher fuel prices will make daily driving petrol or diesel cars harder in a decade or so, but having one as a weekender or hobby car should always remain. Most car brands have committed to an all-electric future. Ford says it will be electric only in Europe by 2030 and Mercedes will be EVonly globally by then. You can only buy a combustion Jaguar for another three years.

LONG TRADES

With long wait times for new cars, how are car dealers currently managing trade-ins? Will I be given a price for my trade-in and it be honoured in a few months when the new car’s delivered? Cheryl Watt, email

Get an agreed trade-in price in writing – that’s the non-negotiable. It’s tricky for the dealer with potential wait times of six, nine or even 12 months before the new car changeover. I can’t see used prices falling much over that time, so you could lock in a price for agreed permitted kilometres until the new car arrives. The dealer will still want a trade-in appraisal at changeover to check your car’s condition. If they try to renegotiate and you don’t like it, it’s such a seller’s market you’ll no doubt get more money privately, and it should sell quickly.

DRINKING SLOWLY

Re: Toyota hybrids, pre-Covid you advised me on economical small sedans. We bought the Toyota Corolla Hybrid on your advice, and average 3.8L/100km. I’m very impressed with the myriad cars with alternative drivetrains due to arrive in coming years. They make perfect sense with fuel prices skyrocketing. Ken Kincses, email

I’m yet to hear from a Toyota hybrid owner who’s not incredibly pleased with their economy. I’ve just tested a Corolla Hybrid, and while it was about as emotionally involving as a tax return, over a week I averaged 4.3L/100km. Brilliant when fuel was at 195c a litre. On a 140km highway journey with cruise control at 110km/h and radio and aircon on, I saw 3.7L/100km. Exceptional.