Car news in brief: JCB sets land speed record and VW unveils details for new electric hatchback
Car changing is a big deal
Here are the top car news stories from 12 August 2026, which includes a land speed record and people keeping tabs on their neighbour’s car tax status.
There’s a lot happening in the car world, and sometimes it can be pretty hard to keep track. Whether you want to know how fast a land vehicle can go or you’re looking to get a new electric hatchback, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are the biggest car news stories making headlines on 12 August 2026, all broken down into bite-sized chunks.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
- JCB sets new hydrogen land speed record
- Many Brits are reporting their neighbours’ cars
- New Volkswagen ID3 Neo goes on sale
JCB sets new hydrogen land speed record
JCB’s hydrogen-powered Hydromax has set a new world land speed record, reaching an average 406.320mph at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats.
Driven by wing commander Andy Green OBE, the 32-foot, twin-engined car made two runs, recording 400.623mph and 412.135mph.
The result beats the previous hydrogen internal combustion record of 185.5mph, set by the BMW H2R in 2004, and JCB’s own 350.092mph diesel record set by Dieselmax in 2006.
Hydromax uses two production-based JCB hydrogen engines producing a combined 1,600hp. The record is subject to official FIA ratification.
JCB says the achievement demonstrates the potential of hydrogen combustion as a zero-tailpipe-CO2 technology.
Many Brits are reporting their neighbours’ cars
New research commissioned by impound insurance specialists Tempcover has revealed that more than 800,000 untaxed vehicles were reported to the DVLA in just 12 months.
The research, based on a survey of 2,000 UK motorists and official DVLA data, found that 30% have checked a nearby car’s tax status, while 12% have reported an untaxed vehicle. In total, 806,952 reports were made between May 2025 and May 2026.
Abandoned-looking cars and vehicles left in the same spot for weeks were the biggest reasons for checking, both cited by 40% of respondents.
Tempcover also found that 85% of drivers don’t realise standard car insurance typically won’t cover the release of an impounded vehicle.
New Volkswagen ID3 Neo goes on sale
Volkswagen’s updated ID3 Neo electric hatchback will be available to order in the UK from 13 August, with prices starting at £33,080.
The refreshed model gets a redesigned exterior and interior, new technology and updated drive systems. Three battery options are available, with the largest offering a claimed range of up to 390 miles.
Highlights include one-pedal driving, improved travel assist with traffic-light detection and Volkswagen’s new Innovision infotainment system.
An optional vehicle-to-load adapter can also power devices such as e-bikes from the car’s battery. All versions qualify for the £1,500 electric car grant.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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