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January 2025 | Phonebox Magazine 49Phonebox Motoringwith Tom JohnstonQUICK BURSTS:Assault on batterySkoda has produced its one-millionth battery system. The car maker has been manufacturing high voltage traction batteries since 2019, when it launched battery production for its Superb iV model with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Demand for car electric motor batteries is increasing as more motorists turn to electric vehicles (EVs) for their daily transport.Currently, Skoda is focused exclusively on producing larger batteries for fully electric vehicles based on its MEB platform; two assembly lines achieve a combined daily output of 1,500 units. These power packs, with capacities ranging from 55 to 91 kWh, are installed in the brand%u2019s popular %u0160koda Enyaq and %u0160koda Elroq as well as in other cars from parent company, the Volkswagen Group, such as Volkswagen, SEAT, CUPRA and Audi.The production milestone coincided with the launch of the Group%u2019s e-mobility info hub, 'Enter Electric!', off ering technical details and providing customers with deeper insights into the benefi ts of electromobility. Pole to poleSwedish car maker Polestar has received offi cial range certifi cation for the long-range single-motor variant of its fl agship SUV, the Polestar 3. A certifi ed reading of up to 438 miles means the full-size SUV offers the longest range in its class, with prices starting at %u00a369,900 on the road.The entry-level Polestar 3 uses the same 111 kWh battery pack as its Dual Motor version, off ering the same 250 kW peak charging capability for a 30-minute 10-80% charge on DC.Customers can further personalise their Polestar 3 thanks to the model%u2019s option structure. Buyers can choose from six exterior colours, fi ve interiors and four-wheel options, including the new 21-inch alloy wheel available as part of the Pro Pack. Single options such as a Bowers & Wilkins 25-speaker audio system complete with Dolby Atmos, Bridge of Weir animal welfare secured Nappa leather and 1.3 megapixel LED headlights, available on the Dual motor models, are also available with this variant.Mercedes GLB Ford PumaKia Sportage MG 5 EVVauxhall Astra Peugeot 508 SW