Car and Van News

BMW is to sell its new i range of cars through 46 of the brand’s UK dealers.

On stream at the end of this year they will initially show off the first two members of BMW’s electric sub-brand.

What is it: Latest version of Ford’s pocket rocket

Key features: New Ecoboost engine, clever chassis, budget price

Mercedes-Benz claims its all-new Sprinter van will knock all rivals aside in terms of safety, emissions and economy.

The van, for which order books open in June, comes with five new safety systems and best-in-class fuel consumption, and is also the first LCV to meet the Euro VI emissions standard.

What is it: Third generation version of sporty family hatch

Key features: Three body styles, more space, upper segment tech

BMW has already received “several hundred” advance orders for its i3 electric car, set to be launched later this year.

According to the German premium brand’s global sales and marketing chief Ian Robertson a world tour taking in Europe, the USA and Japan has sparked great interest in the i3.

Ford’s hot hatch Fiesta ST arrives in showrooms at the end of the month, with more than half of the entire European production heading for the UK.

According to Ford UK’s Product marketing manager Alan Wood 600 pre-orders have already been taken for the 137mph Fiesta in Britain, with dealers expecting 5,000 sales.

New Chinese brand Qoros is making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, promising cars made in China but with distinctly European roots and styling.

Qoros is a joint venture between China’s Chery Automobile and Israel Corporation, an industrial investment company founded in 1968 to attract foreign investors to help develop Israel.