Motoring News Roundup: Seven stories worth noting from October

28th October 2026

From the return of an automotive icon at the Paris Motor Show to the latest research on road safety and the rising cost of repairs, October has brought plenty for motorists to keep an eye on.

Here are eight motoring stories that caught our attention this month, covering industry developments, practical advice and trends that could affect drivers.

Many drivers are unprepared for unexpected repair bills

With winter on its way, an unexpected garage repair bill could put a large dent in many household finances.

New research conducted by Creditspring found that four in ten drivers would struggle to pay an unexpected car repair bill costing more than £249 without turning to credit. With average repair costs sitting at over £700, putting money aside for the unexpected is more important than ever.

Planning ahead, keeping up with regular servicing and having a warranty in place can help motorists prepare for unexpected costs this winter.

Could you do with a refresher driving lesson? You’re not alone

Have you been behind the wheel for years but still come across unfamiliar road signs or markings? It turns out it’s not just new drivers who might benefit from a little help behind the wheel.

October research from AA Insurance found that 79% of drivers would consider a professional refresher lesson in the near future. Whether it’s brushing up on road rules, rebuilding confidence or tackling bad habits, a refresher lesson could be a useful way to feel more comfortable behind the wheel.

Iconic Citroën 2CV revival steals the show in Paris

The biennial Paris Motor Show returned in October, showcasing some of the most exciting new cars and concepts from manufacturers around the world.

Among the highlights was a modern take on the iconic Citroën 2CV, first launched in 1948. Reimagined as a compact electric car, the concept revives the original's distinctive styling, with Citroën reportedly targeting a production model by 2028 and a starting price of around €15,000. Other standouts included the tiny Smart #2 city car, a redesigned Dacia Spring and the Fiat Grizzly SUV.

Are modern headlights too bright? Drivers say they're being dazzled

With darker evenings setting in, headlight glare is back in the spotlight. New research from the RAC found that 83% of drivers were concerned about being dazzled by other motorists’ headlights.

And it’s not just a matter of discomfort. Half of those affected said overly bright headlights made it harder to spot potential road hazards, while 35% said they had been temporarily blinded while driving.

With headlight glare a growing concern for many motorists, the government has also published guidance on how to minimise its effects and help drivers stay safe this winter.

Most drivers don't understand wet-weather stopping distances

As the wet weather continues, new research has highlighted how little drivers know about stopping distances on wet roads. One report found that only 6% of UK drivers know how far away to safely stop on a wet motorway.

The Highway Code advises drivers to allow at least twice the usual stopping distance on wet roads. With reduced tyre grip making it harder to stop safely, taking extra care, leaving more space between vehicles and adjusting your speed to the conditions are all important steps as we head into winter.

The clocks have gone back, and evening rush-hour crashes rise

With the clocks now back, many motorists are making their evening commute in the dark. Research by Marshall Motor Group, analysing collision data from 2022 to 2025, found that reported collisions between 4pm and 7pm increased by 23.5% in the first three weeks after the autumn clock change.

While the figures don’t prove that darker evenings alone cause more collisions, they’re a timely reminder to adapt to changing conditions. Check your lights, reduce your speed when visibility is poor and leave extra room between vehicles.

Electric-car registrations reach a new record

Electric cars continue to dominate, with recent publications showing a record 99,201 new battery-electric cars registered in September.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that the overall new-car market grew by 12% year on year, with battery-electric registrations also increasing. For motorists considering changing their vehicle this winter, an electric car could be worth exploring, particularly if you’re looking to reduce running costs and your environmental impact.

Could your electric car one day help power your home?

On that note, electric cars could one day do more than get us from A to B. The government has been considering potential incentives for vehicle-to-grid technology as part of its review of the zero-emission vehicle mandate.

The technology would allow compatible electric cars to share a build up of electricity back to the grid, aiding household energy bills and efficiency. Although the proposal is still under consideration, this could be one to watch out for if you’re thinking of making the move to electric.

Helping you stay up to date…

That’s our roundup of the latest motoring stories. For more news, seasonal trends and practical driving guidance, head to our website.

To stay on top of your car this winter, create a MotorEasy Digital Garage account. Store your vehicle information, track key dates and keep everything you need to manage your car in one convenient place.

For an even smarter way to manage your car, download the MotorEasy Digital Wallet to your phone. Get handy reminders, policy alerts and instant access to your plan details, all at your fingertips.