Most Popular Used Cars’ Prices Stabilised
According to reports from used car platform CarGurus, the UK’s 20 most in demand used cars stabilised in price in quarter one (Q1) of 2022, although it also says that the used car market saw the average price of a car skyrocket by 34.7% when comparing March 2021 with March 2022. Using average listing priceContinue reading “Most Popular Used Cars’ Prices Stabilised “
Five Min Charger Gives 100 Mile Range
In the race to make EV charging an acceptable pastime, StoreDot, has successfully and publicly demonstrated its ability to charge a full-scale electric vehicle (EV) battery cell with the energy for 100 miles in just 5 minutes live on stage. A video of a live demo can be seen on StoreDot’s YouTube channel here: https://bit.ly/3ssMAki TheContinue reading “Five Min Charger Gives 100 Mile Range “
Motorpoint Cautious Over SMMT Used Car Data
The CEO of Motorpoint – Britain’s largest independent retailer of nearly new cars and vans – has reacted with caution to used car sales data published last week by SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders), saying used car dealers are not enjoying the purple patch the figures seem to suggest. SMMT’s data shows a 5.1% increaseContinue reading “Motorpoint Cautious Over SMMT Used Car Data “
McLaren’s Platinum Paint Job Marks Queen’s Jubilee
McLaren is honouring The Queen’s 70 year reign by unveiling a bespoke Jubilee platinum paint finish and badge 18 years to the day since she opened McLaren’s global headquarters in Woking, the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC). Her Majesty is celebrated with a specially developed platinum silver ‘Platinum Jubilee’ paint. It has been matched to theContinue reading “McLaren’s Platinum Paint Job Marks Queen’s Jubilee “
Bristol St Motors’ Stockton Site Opens
Bristol Street Motors’ Motornation has created 15 jobs as it opens the doors to its latest dealership in Stockton-on-Tees after a £500,000 investment. The former Evans Halshaw site at Preston Farm Industrial Estate has been transformed to now include an extensive forecourt and 10-ramp service centre, as well as a Kids’ Zone featuring a pool table, XboxContinue reading “Bristol St Motors’ Stockton Site Opens “
Fisker New EV Set for 2024 Production
US EV maker Fisker Inc. is to produce the Fisker PEAR starting in 2024, with a plan to build a minimum of 250,000 Fisker PEAR units a year at its Ohio plant after a ramp-up period. “The PEAR will be a revolutionary electric vehicle that won’t fit into any existing segment. The exterior design willContinue reading “Fisker New EV Set for 2024 Production “
Range Rover Sport Launches Up Iceland Spillway
Get this for a spectacular car launch! The New Range Rover Sport has made its global premiere with a dramatic world-first climb up a flooded dam spillway in Iceland. The epic ascent saw New Range Rover Sport resist the surging torrent of water flowing down the ramp of the Karahnjukar Dam – the biggest ofContinue reading “Range Rover Sport Launches Up Iceland Spillway “
Is Land Rover Readying Rugged New Defender?
The wonderful Car Scoops website is reporting that a new Land Rover has been spotted doing the rounds at the Nürburgring test track, potentially seeing the re-launch of the SVX. Check out the pic from CarScoops. The first SVX, the 518bhp V8-powered Discovery SVX, was shelved in 2019 but now we’re hearing that a much-modified prototypeContinue reading “Is Land Rover Readying Rugged New Defender? “
Fiat Goes Onto Onto
Fiat UK is partnering with Onto, the EV subscription service, to provide 600 New 500s to what is said to be the largest electric car fleet in the UK. Onto was founded in 2017 with the goal of accelerating EV adoption and offering a sustainable, flexible and hassle-free alternative to traditional car ownership. Customers can chooseContinue reading “Fiat Goes Onto Onto “
Scramblers Club Bumper Turnout
Scramblers, the Bicester Heritage membership club, saw a record 300 members’ cars join the display as part of the sell-out two-day Scramble event in April. Things are definitely looking up for (mainly) blokes who love cars, with more than 11,000 attendees at the Scramble. The Club welcomed a variety of content including a Healey byContinue reading “Scramblers Club Bumper Turnout “
Nifty Shades of Grey? What a Dull Lot We Are!
The SMMT has told us what we feared: we all love a grey car! For the third year in a row, grey is the UK’s favourite new car colour, followed by black and white. While more interesting colours, such as yellow which has increased its market share by 50%, is on the rise, but redContinue reading “Nifty Shades of Grey? What a Dull Lot We Are! “
Motorpoint Marches On…to Portsmouth
Massive indie retailer Motorpoint has opened its new Portsmouth store thanks to the city’s Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. You might be wondering if there is any stopping the growth of this super-dealer. We don’t think there is at the moment. Motorpoint is going from strength to strength. Mark Carpenter, Motorpoint CEO said: We areContinue reading “Motorpoint Marches On…to Portsmouth “
Tees Valley Welcomes SsangYong
Tees Valley SsangYong is the latest addition to the South Korean manufacturer’s UK network. A 4-car Darlington-based family-run dealership embodies the manufacturer’s ambition to have a complete UK-wide reach. Neal Gibson, managing director at Tees Valley SsangYong, commented: “Here at Tees Valley Motors, we pride ourselves on providing an exceptional customer experience and also onContinue reading “Tees Valley Welcomes SsangYong “
Will AFP Dealer Standard See Some Dealers Lose Business?
The newly-launched Dealer Standard, from the Association of Fleet Professionals, sets out a 28-point guide to dealers delivering cars to fleet professionals to ensure the vehicle handover is comprehensive and fully understood by the customer. Speaking to AM Online, AFP chairman Paul Hollick says that it is possible that, as the initiative grows, fleets willContinue reading “Will AFP Dealer Standard See Some Dealers Lose Business? “
Will Hydrogen Close EVs Down Forever?
We’ve all heard (or experienced) the problems with EVs: the range anxiety; the problem finding a charger that works; the problem finding a charger that works and is available; the long, long wait while the car charges. Yet, over in Europe and Scandinavia, the people driving hydrogen cars know nothing of this. The hydrogen carContinue reading “Will Hydrogen Close EVs Down Forever? “
Safety First – Survey Says
A new survey for What Car? claims that over 80% of new car buyers say a Euro NCAP safety rating of four stars or above is the bare minimum they want from their new vehicle. Car Dealer Mag is reporting that over 80% of the 900+ motorists questioned won’t look at anything below four stars.Continue reading “Safety First – Survey Says “
Cazoo – Financial Jitters?
Serious business journals such as the Daily Telegraph are the real champions of disruptors such as Cazoo. These are the new money generators, the new way forward for investors. But this week the Telegraph reported that Cazoo is ‘struggling to step up a gear as supply problems hold it back’. Meanwhile, The Times is quotingContinue reading “Cazoo – Financial Jitters? “
Fancy a Fag?
Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart reckons that nearly sixty per cent of smokers are running the risk of landing a hefty fine, or even a road ban, while smoking or vaping behind the wheel. Eh? Who knew? Research commissioned by IAM RoadSmart has revealed that 57 per cent of smokers with a full driving licenceContinue reading “Fancy a Fag? “
Cost of Living Crisis Hits Drivers
The much-reported and very serious cost of living crisis is affecting the vast majority of drivers’ motoring habits, with research published showing that 69% of motorists have changed their behaviour since the beginning of the year. This is from new research for Kwik Fit which reveals that in 2022 over one third (35%) of driversContinue reading “Cost of Living Crisis Hits Drivers “
Will Dealers Have To Pay for Twitter?
Elon Musk, our favourite Bond Villain, reckons that under his ownership Twitter will be freed of the shackles that have apparently held it back. OK, but how will he change things? Well, one change that might be on the horizon is that dealerships (along with other businesses) will have to start paying to use TwitterContinue reading “Will Dealers Have To Pay for Twitter? “
Volvo Invests in carwow
In what many see as a surprising move, Volvo Cars has taken a strategic minority stake in carwow, a leading online car marketplace. The investment was made through the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, Volvo’s venture capital arm. carwow has experienced considerable growth in recent years and is now one of the market leaders in theContinue reading “Volvo Invests in carwow “
Used Car Prices Down…A Bit
Reports from across the industry are indicating that used car prices are falling, with most experts seeing this as an adjustment to more realistic levels after the hot rises during the pandemic. So it’s a ‘correction’ rather than a fall. Certainly there is optimism that the fall will be shallow and brief. Cox Automotive’s latestContinue reading “Used Car Prices Down…A Bit “
Citroen’s Special NHS Discount
Here’s an initiative to applaud: Citroën UK is showing its appreciation for the incredible work of the NHS, Teachers and Emergency Services across the UK in recent years by extending its ‘Citroën and You’ programme. The programme, previously reserved for friends and family of Citroën employees, welcomes NHS, Teachers and Emergency Services personnel into theContinue reading “Citroen’s Special NHS Discount “
Fancy Working For Bentley?
Bentley Motors is planning to recruit 100 engineers to work across multiple disciplines within engineering, including supporting the delivery of the ambitious Five-in-Five plan, which commits Bentley to launching a new electric model each year, from 2025, redefining Bentley’s credentials as the benchmark manufacturer in sustainable luxury mobility. It’s an ambitious plan and no doubt people acrossContinue reading “Fancy Working For Bentley? “
Proposal to Reduce MOT Testing Slammed
“The proposal to reduce the frequency of MOT testing is ill-thought-out and unsafe”, said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised vehicle dealers in the UK. The NFDA has encouraged the Government to ‘reconsider’ Transport Secretary Grant Shapps’ rumoured proposal to move to biennial MOT testing. Sue RobinsonContinue reading “Proposal to Reduce MOT Testing Slammed “
Car Buyer’s No. 1 Priority? Fuel Consumption
Fuel consumption is now said to be the number one priority for UK car buyers, with 57% declaring it as one of their most important factors when considering their next vehicle purchase, a new study has revealed. The survey, commissioned by used car marketplace CarGurus, found that owners are using their current cars less, prioritisingContinue reading “Car Buyer’s No. 1 Priority? Fuel Consumption “
Hot Wheels The Movie!
Here’s a story to thrill every middle-aged person who ever threw their Hot Wheels cars around the sitting room in the 1970s, while their Mum (it was always the Mum in the 70s) made Dad’s dinner before he got home from work. Mattel, Inc. and Warner Bros. Pictures have announced that Hot Wheels, a live-actionContinue reading “Hot Wheels The Movie! “
TVR to Launch Griffith EV
Re-made and re-modelled British sports car maker TVR has pledged to develop and launch a full EV version of its renowned Griffith sports car by 2024. The news comes as part of TVR’s drive towards electrification and sits alongside its sponsorship of races at the Monaco and London Formula E World Championshiphs. TVR says the moveContinue reading “TVR to Launch Griffith EV “
Ineos Names First Dealers in UK Network
Global petrochemicals giant, Ineos, is preparing to launch its very first car, the Grenadier, which many observers feel is a the not-too-distant cousin of the Land Rover Defender. With 26,00 employees in 194 sites across 29 countries and $61 billion in annual income, Ineos is well-placed to, well, do what the hell it wants. ItContinue reading “Ineos Names First Dealers in UK Network “
Check Out This MGA Fastback Coupe
The much-loved MGA has been re-born as a stylish fastback, thanks to the loving care of Warren Kennedy at Classic Restorations in Bedfordshire. Isn’t it gorgeous? The MGA Fastback Coupe started life as a standard 1957 MGA. The steel body was removed and then the work really started: front and rear lights, sweeping side ventsContinue reading “Check Out This MGA Fastback Coupe “
What’s That Weird Noise?!
A team of EV experts from Lease Electric Car have compiled a report on the noises EVs make and why they make them. The company says that ‘with a lot more electric and hybrid vehicles on the roads and different car companies creating their own models, it can become more challenging to identify whether aContinue reading “What’s That Weird Noise?! “
Dealer’s Facebook Traces ‘Lowlife’ Thief
Michael Kiernan Cars in Nuneaton has launched a Facebook campaign showing CCTV images of a man wanted in relation to a theft of an A Class Merc. The company’s social media page shows a series of photos of a tattooed individual alleged to have taken the car. ‘Please keep sharing,’ says the post. ‘He’s gotContinue reading “Dealer’s Facebook Traces ‘Lowlife’ Thief “
Fiat and Abarth Join Robins & Day Network
Robins & Day by Stellantis &You (yes, they’re keeping that mouthful of a name) has added Fiat and Abarth vehicles to its dealership network, with an initial placement at its Sale and Birmingham Central sites. Greg Taylor, Managing Director, Fiat and Abarth, said: “We’re excited to be in a position where we can continue toContinue reading “Fiat and Abarth Join Robins & Day Network “
Market May Never Return To Pre-Pandemic Levels
Cox Automotive has issued a blistering report warning that the car market as we knew it, before the pandemic struck, may forever be a thing of the past. Various issues are combining to shift the sector, warns Cox Automotive, but director Philip Nothard says the industry must manage its transformation in order to meet theContinue reading “Market May Never Return To Pre-Pandemic Levels “
Sunderland – Centre of the EV World
Bosses from some of the UK’s biggest electric vehicle, battery and component manufacturers will gather in Sunderland next month to discuss how best to secure the future of the automotive industry in the North East, by delivering investment, growth and jobs for the region. They will be joined by hundreds of local businesses at theContinue reading “Sunderland – Centre of the EV World “
VW Set to Electrify Greek Island
The electrification of idyllic Greek island Astypalea by VW is going full steam ahead. VW has delivered the first electric cars to private customers on the island, marking the expansion of the e-fleet on Astypalea where the local authorities have been using electric vehicles already since last year. The Smart & Sustainable Island project isContinue reading “VW Set to Electrify Greek Island “
BMW 7 – More Details Revealed
BMW is in raptures about its new 7 Series models, and we can see why. Striking styling, luxurious interior design, a cutting-edge digital experience – it all adds up to a phenomenal range of cars. The Beemer Team are pushing this flagship range as a significant step up from its renowned predecessor, available in long-wheelbaseContinue reading “BMW 7 – More Details Revealed “
FCA To Boost Diversity on Company Boards
The FCA has finalised rules requiring listed companies to report information and disclose against targets on the representation of women and ethnic minorities on their boards and executive management, making it easier for investors to see the diversity of their senior leadership teams. The FCA’s approach sets positive diversity targets for listed companies. If they cannot meetContinue reading “FCA To Boost Diversity on Company Boards “
New Kia Niro EV On Show
A pre-production prototype of the all-new Kia Niro EV will be on public display at Fully Charged Live at the end of this month, giving the chance to see the new car ‘in the metal’ before sales commence in the summer. Kia recently announced full UK pricing and specs for the all-new Niro family, whichContinue reading “New Kia Niro EV On Show “
Stratstone Derby’s £Multi-Million Revamp
Luxury dealer Stratstone, part of the Pendragon group, has re-opened its BMW and Mini Derby showroom following a multi-million pound redevelopment, though they’re not saying how much was spent on the revamp. The showroom brings both brands into one dedicated 50,000sq ft site and offers a range of state-of-the-art features to enhance the customer experience.Continue reading “Stratstone Derby’s £Multi-Million Revamp “
Lookers’ Record Year
Lookers’ pre-tax profit took a humungous 558% rise to more than £90m last year – thank goodness for that incredible demand for used cars! For the year ended December 31, 2021, Lookers also recorded a rise of over 9% in turnover, to an astonishing £4.05bn. No wonder chief exec, Mark Raban, is feeling positive: “2021Continue reading “Lookers’ Record Year “
Farewell to the Vauxhall Astra
As Vauxhall celebrates 60 years of manufacturing at its Ellesmere Port plant, ahead of its £100 million transformation into the first Stellantis plant to produce solely battery-electric models by the end of the year, it also announced the death knell of the Astra. Ellesmere Port opened in 1962 and began as a production plant forContinue reading “Farewell to the Vauxhall Astra “
BMW i4 Crowned ‘Best Exec EV’ at Top Gear Awards
The BMW i4 was crowned ‘Best Electric Executive Car’ at the Top Gear Electric Awards this week. Not so long ago, the very thought of Top Gear even handing out electric awards would have dinosaur Clarkson foaming at the mouth, but now the show lives in the real world. Top Gear mag editor, Jack RixContinue reading “BMW i4 Crowned ‘Best Exec EV’ at Top Gear Awards “
CitNOW’s Digital Spotlight Awards
And the winners are…tense and nervous as the hosts fumble with the golden envelopes… CitNOW, automotive retail industry’s communications specialist, has announced the latest winners of its annual Digital Spotlight Awards, where the creativity and best practice in digital customer communications is rewarded. Some dealerships showing the way forward with digital comms stole the show.Continue reading “CitNOW’s Digital Spotlight Awards “
Kia Invest in Dealership Leaders
Kia UK has been running a series of intensive development programmes to give Kia dealership staff specialist leadership and development skills. The programme consists of ten workshops looking at practical management and leadership techniques covering all key areas of the retail business, each one helping the delegate to ensure their dealership can deliver outstanding customerContinue reading “Kia Invest in Dealership Leaders “
SMMT: Registrations Down, EV Sales Up
Despite new car registrations declining -14.3% to 243,479 units, giving the UK retail motor industry its weakest March since 1998, March saw us enjoy the best ever month for battery electric vehicles with 78.7% growth to 39,315 units, says the SMMT. Despite the up and down nature of the figures, the SMMT is holding outContinue reading “SMMT: Registrations Down, EV Sales Up “
BBC Watchdog Questions Cazoo’s 300-Point Check
Did you see the BBC Watchdog report on Cazoo this week? The one where Cazoo’s famous 300-point inspection was called into question? Well, for the online dealer it must have hit a nerve, not least because, as the BBC said, their massive advertising campaign focuses on why the customer can trust them – the 300-pointContinue reading “BBC Watchdog Questions Cazoo’s 300-Point Check “
Swansway’s ‘Awesome’ Results
Crewe-based Swansway has posted record results after battling its way through the covid crisis and coming out on top. Director has hailed the 147% leap in pre-tax profits to over £25m as an “awesome result”. Both new and used car sales grew throughout 2021, bringing a 17.7% rise in turnover to £838.5 million across theContinue reading “Swansway’s ‘Awesome’ Results “
NFDA: Light Van Sales Down
“Registrations of light commercial vehicles declined in March as supply constraints and subsequent product shortages continue to have a detrimental impact on the market; these issues are not only affecting automotive, but also other economy sectors, such as the construction industry, whose stability is vital to the van market”, said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive ofContinue reading “NFDA: Light Van Sales Down “
Best Location for Best Used Car Deals?
Classic Land Rover supplier John Brown 4×4 has been doing some serious number-crunching to find out that Yorkshire is the best county in which to find a bargain used car. Are we surprised? The team studied the prices of the ten most popular models of second-hand cars across 63 of the largest towns and citiesContinue reading “Best Location for Best Used Car Deals?”
Startline’s New Monthly Used Car Tracker
Startline Motor Finance is launching a new monthly research project to track consumer and dealer sentiment in the used car market, giving details on who is thinking what in this critical sector. The idea is for the Startline Used Car Tracker to give a regular insight into an aspect of the sector where information isContinue reading “Startline’s New Monthly Used Car Tracker “
Warrantywise Targets Growth Via Dealer Partner Plan
Warrantywise, the third-party automotive warranty specialist, is restructuring its dealer department to build better levels of service and support for retail partners, and to lay the foundations for a period of accelerated growth. The Blackburn-based company, which works with hundreds of dealers, is encouraging dealer partners to invest in servicing and vehicle prep, and toContinue reading “Warrantywise Targets Growth Via Dealer Partner Plan “
Citroen Ami – What Future Cars Should Be Like?
The, let’s face it, ‘challenging looking’ Citroën Ami Electric has scooped the ‘Innovation of the Year’ title at inaugural Move Electric Awards. And it will soon be seen on UK streets. OK, it is certainly different in terms of style, but what does it offer? Well, a top speed of 28mph, a 46-mile range withContinue reading “Citroen Ami – What Future Cars Should Be Like? “
All-Electric Roller Passes -40˚C Winter Tests
The new all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre has concluded its winter testing in freezing conditions just 55km from the Arctic Circle, surviving -40˚C temperatures in Sweden. The Spectre has now completed a quarter of a planned 2.5 million km testing programme. As CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös says: “The announcement of every new Rolls-Royce motor car carries a greatContinue reading “All-Electric Roller Passes -40˚C Winter Tests “
Czinger and HR Owen Reveal UK Debut
Photo Credit @iamted LA-based Czinger Vehicles, which sees itself as an industry-disrupting performance vehicles brand, has announced posh car outlet HR Owen as its first international retail partner and exclusive dealer in the UK. Czinger has plans to open up the European market in time for the launch of its new model, the 21C. HRContinue reading “Czinger and HR Owen Reveal UK Debut “
Car-Loving Metalhead? Check This Out
David Brown Automotive has flashed a bit of metaphorical thigh with a glimpse of its upcoming, limited run version of Mini Remastered, in collaboration with iconic British amp-meisters Marshall Amplification, used by bands the world over to pump out the sounds with the volume turned up to 11. The special variant of David Brown Automotive’sContinue reading “Car-Loving Metalhead? Check This Out “
On Me Head, Castrol
English Premier League sponsor Castrol is launching a seven-a-side football tournament for eight teams from workshops and retail partners from across the UK to win the chance to compete at St George’s Park, the official home of England’s national football teams. Taking place on 22 May, teams will get the chance to be coached byContinue reading “On Me Head, Castrol “
Motorvogue Outlines Ambitions
Northampton-based Motorvogue, which represents Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Hyundai, Renault and many other manufacturers across sites in 27 locations in the Midlands and East Anglia, is restructuring its sales operations and expanding its senior management team in preparation of a serious push for growth. Two new regional divisions have been created with Guy Twiselton appointed operationsContinue reading “Motorvogue Outlines Ambitions “
Blue Motor Finance Lends Over £2 Billion
Blue Motor Finance today has smashed through the £2bn lending mark – not bad for a company that was only founded in 2014 but which has built up a network of over 2,000 used car dealerships and become a trusted partner for very many customers. The company prides itself on applying technology, innovation, data andContinue reading “Blue Motor Finance Lends Over £2 Billion “
Peter Vardy’s £200,000 for Ukraine
Hats off (again) to the Peter Vardy Group which has raised over £200,000 for people in Ukraine. The company is also set to donate 10% of its March profits to humanitarian projects in the country. The fundraising is being carried out via Peter Vardy’s ‘One Child’ programme. For each car it sells the Group donates £15Continue reading “Peter Vardy’s £200,000 for Ukraine “
Auto Trader Used Car Prices Up 28.5% YoY
Auto Trader’s latest data from its own marketplace shows that the average price for a used car grew 28.5% a year-on-year and like-for-like basis, making it the 98th week of consecutive price growth. OK, so this is a tiny bit down from the full 29% YoY growth shown in February, but it’s still going up andContinue reading “Auto Trader Used Car Prices Up 28.5% YoY “
Howay The Lads for Lookers’ Prestige
Lookers’ first Premium branch has opened in Newcastle after a major investment in the look and feel of the specialist prestige used car dealership. With a focus on premium used including brands such as Land Rover, Audi, BMW and Merc Lookers Premium is the real world version of what Lookers has been operating online for some time. Lookers’Continue reading “Howay The Lads for Lookers’ Prestige “
Lookout Tesla, Polestar’s On Your Tail
Management and tech consultancy BearingPoint has pointed to the huge growth in the online car sales marketplace and shown that Polestar is already a real challenger to Tesla’s crown. BearingPoint’s latest study on the state of online new car sales is a ‘must read’. It assesses the online sales performances of major OEMs and identifiesContinue reading “Lookout Tesla, Polestar’s On Your Tail “
Renault’s Russian U-Turn
It was only on Monday of this week that reports were rife that French carmaker Renault had amazingly resumed manufacturing in its Russian plants. This bucked the trend set by very many other global brands who hadn’t hesitated in shutting down their outlets in protest at the grotesque and murderous invasion of Ukraine. Weirdly, theContinue reading “Renault’s Russian U-Turn “
All-Electric Mini Undergoes Winter Testing
The fully electric edition of the new MINI 3-Door Hatch is now completing its driving dynamics tests on the snow and ice at the BMW Group’s winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden. The electric drivetrain, high-voltage battery, power electronics and charging technology of the new MINI prototypes are already demonstrating their high degree of maturityContinue reading “All-Electric Mini Undergoes Winter Testing “
Pendragon Profits Up Tenfold
No wonder Pendragon CEO Bill Berman is ‘delighted’, he has just signed off on a massive tenfold increase in profits for the group. A major achievement in anyone’s books. With a record underlying profit before tax of £83.0m (FY20: £8.2m) and sales well ahead of the overall market, Pendragon has managed to cut costs toContinue reading “Pendragon Profits Up Tenfold “
NFDA: Cool Response to Chancellor’s Efforts
Sue Robinson, NFDA Chief Executive, has issued a less than warm statement in response to Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s latest smoke and mirrors exercise where some taxes were cut and others raised, but the poor were definitely left getting poorer. The NFDA’s view seems to be one of overall disappointment with the Chancellor and the opportunitiesContinue reading “NFDA: Cool Response to Chancellor’s Efforts “
Cazoo and Cinch: Neck and Neck
What Car? has conducted a survey of 632 in-market car buyers on behalf of Car Dealer Mag and found that the two online used car disruptors that are slinging the largest amounts of £squillions at advertising and sponsorship, namely Cazoo and Cinch, are unsurprisingly racing ahead in terms of public recognition. The survey found thatContinue reading “Cazoo and Cinch: Neck and Neck “
Rod Stewart On The Road Again
Did you see the YouTube and Instagram reports about Sir Roderick of Stewart getting his hands mucky by helping fill the potholes near his ‘gaff’ as he no doubt calls his Harlow estate? Fair play to the wizened old rocker, he really did don a hi-vis vest and get a shovel in his mitts andContinue reading “Rod Stewart On The Road Again “
Suzuki’s Flying Car Arriving in 2025
Suzuki and SkyDrive have formed a partnership to accelerate the development of a true flying car, with the Japanese giant setting its sights on beginning an air taxi service during the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka. SkyDrive is currently developing a compact, two-seating electric-powered flying car with plans for full-scale production. The two companies areContinue reading “Suzuki’s Flying Car Arriving in 2025 “
VW: More Profitable, More Effective
Volkswagen CEO Ralf Brandstätter has announced that the company is showing great form in its transformation into being a ‘tech company’ under its Accelerate programme. He says VW is: “Much more profitable, more crisis-resistant and more effective than we were in 2020. With Accelerate, we have once more stepped up the pace of our transformationContinue reading “VW: More Profitable, More Effective “
Kirkcaldy Dealer is CUPRA Retailer of the Year
Congratulations to family business Fife Seat, awarded Retailer of the Year status for 2021. It’s no mean feat, to be considered the very best of over 50 retailers nationwide and this in the dealership’s first year as a CUPRA outlet. The company been based in Kirkcaldy since 2008 and is recognised locally for its highContinue reading “Kirkcaldy Dealer is CUPRA Retailer of the Year “
Stellantis Pumps €300M Into Mobility Start-Ups
Stellantis today announced the launch of a major venture capital fund with the creation of Stellantis Ventures, to invest €300 million in start-up companies developing innovative, customer-centric technologies that could be deployed within the automotive and mobility sector. “We are moving fast in our transformation to a mobility tech company while reimagining the future of mobilityContinue reading “Stellantis Pumps €300M Into Mobility Start-Ups “
Audi Passengers to Enjoy VR Tech
Audi has said that it is the first automobile manufacturer in the world to bring virtual-reality entertainment from holoride into series production. This means that, beginning this summer, back seat passengers can put on virtual reality (VR) glasses and immerse themselves in various media formats such as games, films and interactive content. The main attraction:Continue reading “Audi Passengers to Enjoy VR Tech “
Bentley’s Record Financial Performance
Super-luxury marque Bentley Motors has announced its financial results for 2021, complementing the company’s record sales performance during the same 12-month period. Operating profits rose to €389 million, which was €369 million more than in 2020. Turnover last year reached €2.845 billion, while an increased level of personalisation and a model mix dominated by Speed,Continue reading “Bentley’s Record Financial Performance “
DHL’s Sunny Solution
Delivery and shipping experts DHL Express is installing solar panel units on trucks within its pickup and delivery fleet, reducing fuel consumption in markets throughout the country. Equipping DHL Express medium and heavy-duty trucks with the TRAILAR solar technology is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 1,000 KG per year for each vehicle, also loweringContinue reading “DHL’s Sunny Solution “
New Aston Martin V12 Vantage a ‘Hero Car’
As Aston Martin launches its new V12 Vantage chief exec, Tobias Moers, signals its importance to the manufacturer: “Every great sportscar brand has a hero car.” And how right he is. What do we want from our ultimate Aston Martin? Driving dynamics honed to deliver utmost performance and unmatched enjoyment? Check. A smart move toContinue reading “New Aston Martin V12 Vantage a ‘Hero Car’ “
Ambulances4Ukraine: Enthusiasts Donate Vehicles
A husband-and-wife team of classic car enthusiasts from the New Forest are to donate two fully prepared vehicles to support Ukrainian medical services as part of a life-saving mission in Eastern Europe. Donations to the cause can be made here https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ambulances4ukraine?utm_term=q4qk89GYE Richard and Gosia Myers have enlisted the help of a number of local businessesContinue reading “Ambulances4Ukraine: Enthusiasts Donate Vehicles “
How to become a digital disruptor
iVendi, the digital motor retailing and finance solutions provider in use at over 8,000 UK retailers, has offered tips and guidance on how dealers can become ‘digital disruptors’. The tips focus on the fact that way consumers engage when buying a vehicle is changing, with new tech driving e-commerce into the retail motor industry. WeContinue reading “How to become a digital disruptor “
Norfolk Dealership Team Walks In Name of Colleague
A team of staff from Norfolk dealership Crayford & Abbs has completed a 16 mile walk, raising over £8,000, in the name of their former colleague Jamie Crow-Mains who passed away suddenly on New Years Day. Jamie is described on the company’s website as much-loved and respected. The team walked from the dealership’s Mundesley GarageContinue reading “Norfolk Dealership Team Walks In Name of Colleague “
NFDA Survey: What Dealers Really Think of Manufacturers
The six-monthly NFDA Attitude Survey asked the critical question ‘how would you rate your manufacturer?’ and saw Lexus wipe the floor with the opposition with a massively-impressive 9.8/10 score. The average score that dealers gave their manufacturers was 6.6/10, slightly up from the previous survey. After Lexus came Kia (9.2) and Toyota (8.9), but Renault (4.0), DSContinue reading “NFDA Survey: What Dealers Really Think of Manufacturers “
ITV and Channel 4 Invest in carwow
carwow, the online car buying and selling marketplace, has been backed with £17.2 million investment, including its first media-for-equity agreements from ITV and Channel 4. The majority of the equity investment came from existing investors, including Vitruvian, Balderton and Accel, as well as Hercules Capital which provided a £40m debt capital facility in December 2021.Continue reading “ITV and Channel 4 Invest in carwow “
Reports Of EVs’ Demise Are Premature
Recent reports would have us believe that the future of EVs is to be brief, but hold the front page, because the latest view is that with petrol prices rising so steeply EVs are now the flavour of the month…again. Certainly this is what Auto Trader is finding, according to its latest Road to 2030Continue reading “Reports Of EVs’ Demise Are Premature “
Drivers Not Ready For Autonomous Vehicles
Road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, has conducted a survey that has revealed that the majority of drivers aren’t actually ready to take their hands off the steering wheel when it comes to the autonomous cars that we’re all promised will soon be zooming up our motorways. IAM RoadSmart says that this is despite the factContinue reading “Drivers Not Ready For Autonomous Vehicles “
Customers Expect To Pay Extra for Online Purchase
What Car? has issued the results of its recent customer survey to reveal that 25% of buyers expect dealerships to make profits between £1000 and £2000 per used car sale, but over a quarter of online buyers fully expect dealers’ profits to be far higher – between £2000 and £5000 – when selling online. SteveContinue reading “Customers Expect To Pay Extra for Online Purchase “
Final Whistle for Everton/Cazoo £10m Deal
As if the speculation about an embarrassing relegation out of the Premier League isn’t enough for Everton FC, news arrives that the lucrative £10 million sponsorship deal it has had for the last two years has been ended. Everton, always the poor relation to their mighty neighbours in red, has also suffered bumpy financial timesContinue reading “Final Whistle for Everton/Cazoo £10m Deal “
Mazda CX-60 PHEV Starts at £43,950
Mazda has announced the prices for its all-new CX-60 in advance of its arrival on UK streets this Autumn. Prices start at just under £44k while at the very top of the range is the £48,050 Takumi, which features 20-inch black machined alloy wheels and body-coloured mirrors. The flagship SUV is launched with Mazda’s firstContinue reading “Mazda CX-60 PHEV Starts at £43,950 “
Polestar: Tune In, Man
Polestar has teamed up with Swedish composer, musician and artist, Lisa Nordström, to create a unique soundscape for Polestar’s retail locations around the world. The soundtrack is also available on over 50 different streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music – and can of course be streamed in Polestar 2 cars. This isContinue reading “Polestar: Tune In, Man “
Johnsons Cars Buys Trust Group
Johnsons Cars, one of England’s largest independent dealership groups, has bought the Trust Group, bringing with it Skoda dealerships in Redditch, Stourbridge and Wolverhampton. On top of that, Johnsons has also added three Trade Parts Specialists (TPS) to the group in Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton providing a one stop shop for original equipment parts forContinue reading “Johnsons Cars Buys Trust Group “
Vertu Ups Profit Forecast
Vertu Motors has upgraded its pre-tax profit forecast from £70m to at least £75m, according to a trading update via the London Stock Exchange. This concerns the five-month period to January 31, not the full year. Full results will be announced in May, but in the update CEO Robert Forrester said: “I am pleased toContinue reading “Vertu Ups Profit Forecast “
Waiting Time for Posh Cars Gets Longer as Ship Sinks
A ship carrying thousands of cars including Porches, Audis and Bentleys (as well as other brands) has sunk in the Atlantic after being on fire for days. Felicity Ace, the 650-foot-long, 60,000-ton cargo ship travelling from Germany to the USA had been aflame for a couple of days and eventually sank to the ocean floor. Continue reading “Waiting Time for Posh Cars Gets Longer as Ship Sinks “
Carwow Aims for Diversity and Inclusivity
James Hind, the founder and CEO of Carwow, has set out a new ambition for the company to become “one of the most diverse and inclusive places to work in the automotive industry”. Here at Need To Know Motors we not only applaud this, we’re impressed with the level of detail in the company’s announcement.Continue reading “Carwow Aims for Diversity and Inclusivity “
Volvo Aims For Wireless Charging
As if tech isn’t zooming ahead at a fast enough rate of knots already, Volvo has announced that it’s testing a new wireless charging technology at stations in Gothenburg, Sweden. Over a three-year period, a small fleet of fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge cars will be used as taxis and charged wirelessly. So how willContinue reading “Volvo Aims For Wireless Charging “
Stellantis Donates €1 Million for Ukrainian Refugees
We make no apologies for this week’s bulletin focussing on the hell that is unfolding in Ukraine. And we’re chuffed that Stellantis, through its Foundation, has commited €1 million in humanitarian aid to support the Ukrainian refugees and civilians displaced by the current crisis. With the support of Stellantis’ head of operations in Ukraine, StellantisContinue reading “Stellantis Donates €1 Million for Ukrainian Refugees “
Ford Backs Dealers
Ford CEO Jim Farley has prompted a sigh of relief from Ford dealers around the world by stating clearly that the manufacturer is sticking by dealers and that they remain integral to the company’s future. In an insightful interview with the Detroit Free Press, Farley spoke freely about the challenges Ford faces, its rivals andContinue reading “Ford Backs Dealers “
Vauxhall Going Electric Early
Vauxhall is becoming a purely electric brand, much earlier than it had initially planned. By 2028, Vauxhall says it will have switched its entire product line-up to purely electric vehicles – seven years ahead of the UK Government deadline. Vauxhall already offers a comprehensive selection of electrified models – there are ten electrified models availableContinue reading “Vauxhall Going Electric Early “
Polestar Opens 3rd ‘Space’ in Solihull
Swedish electric performance brand Polestar will open its third UK ‘Space’ at Touchwood, the 650,000 square foot shopping destination in Solihull’s town centre. Like previous openings at London Westfield and Manchester’s Trafford Centre, Polestar Solihull aims to continue to change the face of the traditional automotive retail model with its direct to consumer digital-first approach.Continue reading “Polestar Opens 3rd ‘Space’ in Solihull “
VW Shuts Down Russian Production
VW Group has decided to stop the production of vehicles in Russia until further notice. This decision applies to the Russian production sites in Kaluga and Nizhny Novgorod. VW’s vehicle exports to Russia will also be stopped with immediate effect. With the extensive interruption of business activities in Russia, the VW Executive Board is reviewingContinue reading “VW Shuts Down Russian Production “
Classic Car Search Data Revealed
Car & Classic has revealed the Ford Escort was the most searched-for car on its classified and online auction website in 2021. After the effect of the pandemic led to more ‘dream cars’ such as the Porsche 911 and Jaguar E-Type leading the search table, 2021 saw enthusiasts seek more mainstream cars including the BMWContinue reading “Classic Car Search Data Revealed “
Lord Help Us. We Can’t Stop Watching This Site
Look, we all like a little sneak peek at something naughty on the internet, don’t we? Well, here at Need To Know Motors our weakness is the Collecting Cars website where, 27/7 there are some of the world’s most fun and desirable and quirky motors for sale, from around the globe. Now, when we’re aloneContinue reading “Lord Help Us. We Can’t Stop Watching This Site “