MG5 EV Gets carwow’s Vote
MG, the fastest-growing brand in the UK, has only gone and got the Winner’s podium for its MG5 EV at the carwow Buy It awards, as part of their annual honours celebrating the best cars tested this year. carwow, the well-known online new and used car buying platform, announced the MG5 EV as a winner, commenting thatContinue reading “MG5 EV Gets carwow’s Vote “
Ford Pumps Up EV Volume at Halewood
Building on its commitment to grow an all-electric vehicle range, Ford has invested a further £125 million in its Halewood Plant, on Merseyside – increasing capacity by 70 per cent – plus £24 million in the supporting E:PRiME product development centre. Today’s announcement takes total investment in enabling Halewood’s transformation to an EV component plantContinue reading “Ford Pumps Up EV Volume at Halewood “
Maserati Adds to Network
Maserati, that most understated of Italian icons, plans to launch multiple new models in the UK, as well as its new electric ‘Folgore’ (‘lightning’ in Italian) range. So it’s timely that it has also added to its UK retailer network with the appointment of Hendy Group to serve the South and South West regions. Where?Continue reading “Maserati Adds to Network “
Ben Benefits from Industry Leaders’ Climb
A team of 15 automotive industry leaders have just returned victorious from the summit of Kilimanjaro, having raised almost £200,000 for automotive industry charity, Ben to date. There is still further to climb to reach the £300,000 fundraising target, so Ben is now calling for final donations. Last week, Ben’s intrepid explorers took on a gruellingContinue reading “Ben Benefits from Industry Leaders’ Climb “
Oi!! Turn it Down!!
The boffins at IAM Roadsmart are saying that motorists who listen to music while driving could be disrupting the harmony on Britain’s roads. Er…isn’t that all of us? A survey of 1,004 motorists, commissioned by the road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, has revealed that two-thirds (69 per cent) of motorists believe that having loud musicContinue reading “Oi!! Turn it Down!! “
Ombudsman’s Star Award Winner: Roadside in N. Ireland
Roadside (Garages) Kia Coleraine, located in Northern Ireland, has won the top prize in the 2022 Star Awards, run by The Motor Ombudsman. The dealership was awarded the National Garage Star trophy in the Awards, with the four-strong judging panel unanimously agreeing the County Londonderry dealer was also the worthy recipient for the regional trophy.Continue reading “Ombudsman’s Star Award Winner: Roadside in N. Ireland “
Stellantis Sidelines Agency Plans – What Next for Agency Model?
Apparently Stellantis has kicked the agency can way on down the road. Apparently its plans to change the way it works with dealers is on hold. Apparently its having second thoughts. So what now? This was meant to be one of the agency model flagships for Alfa Romeo, DS Automobiles and other brands, and dealersContinue reading “Stellantis Sidelines Agency Plans – What Next for Agency Model? “
Line Up for Your Lotus Factory Collection
Customer collections of the Lotus Emira from the Hethel factory where it’s built have now begun. The first recipient, Shaan Kodituwakku, travelled from his home in Edinburgh to pick up his V6 First Edition finished in stunning Hethel Yellow. Factory Collection is an option for all Emira customers in the UK, and can be specifiedContinue reading “Line Up for Your Lotus Factory Collection “
Finance Demand Stays High Despite Interest Rates
Demand for car finance is still pretty strong despite interest rates going up, up up. Auto Trader is reporting that engagement is up 46% on pre-pandemic levels. Bearing in mind the entire country is in the financial mire, that’s a pretty impressive figure. The figures are coming from Auto Trader’s own platform, which it reckonsContinue reading “Finance Demand Stays High Despite Interest Rates “
Wiesmann’s ‘Project Thunderball’: World’s First Convertible Roadster EV?
Wiesmann, the German luxury sports car marque, has revealed technical details of its all-electric vehicle codenamed Project Thunderball – which it claims is the world’s first electric convertible roadster. The two-seater, rear-wheel drive Project Thunderball sees twin electric rear-mid mounted motors delivering up to 500kW (680hp) to the rear wheels and 1100 Nm ofContinue reading “Wiesmann’s ‘Project Thunderball’: World’s First Convertible Roadster EV? “
Cars Most Likely to Pass (and Fail) MOTs
Go Compare has come up with a cracking piece of research, showing which brands are more likely to pass and fail an MOT test. It makes for interesting reading. As Go Compare say, we all love lour cars, whether it’s our first runaround, or a rust bucket that you start with your fingers crossed –Continue reading “Cars Most Likely to Pass (and Fail) MOTs “
Motorvogue Moves Into Bury St Edmunds
Motorvogue is reportedly adding Peugeot to its offer in Bury St Edmunds and is said to be ploughing £2 million into a showroom revamp. This has thrown up some consternation over the existing Peugeot outlet in the town, where the Desira Group has been representing the Stellantis brand. The Northampton-based Motorvogue is very much on theContinue reading “Motorvogue Moves Into Bury St Edmunds “
Arnold Clark Plans Four Auction Centres
Despite low stock across the entire industry it is being reported by AM that Arnold Clark plans to open four new used car auction centres in 2023. It’s a bold statement of intent. It seems a natural move for Arnold Clark, having previously bought Glasgow’s Central Car Auctions and the focus on its Sell MyContinue reading “Arnold Clark Plans Four Auction Centres “
Abarth’s New EV
Abarth is debuting the fully electric New Abarth 500e which it claims is the most responsive and exciting Abarth in urban driving and the fastest and most enjoyable in suburban driving, claiming that the electric architecture performs better than petrol thanks to an improved weight distribution, better torque, and a wider wheelbase. Olivier Francois, Fiat andContinue reading “Abarth’s New EV “
Automobili Pininfarina Breaks EV Acceleration Record
Luxury Italian carmaker Automobili Pininfarina has confirmed the Battista hyper GT’s performance credentials by revealing its record-breaking official acceleration and braking figures for the first time. The pure-electric Battista’s unique launch control technology contributes to Formula 1 car-beating acceleration, with 0-60 mph achieved in 1.79s, 0-100 km/h completed in 1.86s, 0-120 mph executed in 4.49sContinue reading “Automobili Pininfarina Breaks EV Acceleration Record “
Livingstone Motors’ Pre-Christmas Staff Gifts
Hull-based Livingstone Motor Group has handed out pre-Christmas gifts to its entire workforce of 21, with MD Andrew Iveson playing Santa with Amazon vouchers for all. Speaking to AM, Iveson said it was “morally right” to thank staff in this way, not least when we’re heading for an expensive time of the year. Everyone atContinue reading “Livingstone Motors’ Pre-Christmas Staff Gifts “
IMI: Record Job Vacancies Drives Up Wages
The latest Automotive Job Postings Briefing from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has found that the recent 20-year high vacancy rate has led to increased demand and greater salaries on offer. The current vacancy rate (number of vacancies per 100 employees) for Motor Trades is 3.8, representing 20,000 vacancies – slightly below the national rateContinue reading “IMI: Record Job Vacancies Drives Up Wages “
Posh Cars = Major Profits
HR Owen, car dealer to the rich and famous, has reported pre-tax profits of £15.6m in the last year. Well known (and respected) for selling everything from Rollers to Aston Martins. The group turned over £536m last year. That’s from a total of 17 dealerships and 16 aftersales sites across England. Considering the fact thatContinue reading “Posh Cars = Major Profits “
Perrys’ Subscription Service Launches
It looks increasingly as though the UK car retail industry is seeing subscription as the way forward, or at least as a central plank to getting the customer into the vehicle. News comes in that Perrys Motor Sales is launching an online vehicle subscription via a partnership with Karzoom, with the arrival of the newContinue reading “Perrys’ Subscription Service Launches “
Market Update: Is Vertu Motors Buying Helston Garages?
We’re seeing reports that Vertu Motors is in talks with Helston Garages. If the deal goes through then Vertu adds both Ferrari and Porsche brands to the Vertu franchises. The report come via Vertu’s own announcement earlier this week: ‘Vertu Motors confirms that it is in advanced discussions regarding the potential acquisition of Helston GaragesContinue reading “Market Update: Is Vertu Motors Buying Helston Garages? “
EV Charging: Where Can You Get It and Where Can’t You?
The UK local authorities that have recorded the highest percentage growth in public charging provision per 100,000 people have been named. Welwyn Hatfield in Hertfordshire has been identified as the best performing local authority, according to new research by Citroën UK. Analysing the number of public chargers per 100,000 residents across the UK, Citroën foundContinue reading “EV Charging: Where Can You Get It and Where Can’t You? “
SMMT Q3 Report: Used Car Sales Down, EVs Up
The UK’s used car market fell for the second consecutive quarter this year, declining -12.2% over the three months of July to September, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Some 1,785,447 vehicles changed hands, the first time that quarter three transactions have dipped below twoContinue reading “SMMT Q3 Report: Used Car Sales Down, EVs Up “
Vote For Your Top Tuned Motor
The Performance and Tuning Car Show is searching for the UK’s Top Tuned Car with the opportunity for the winners to display their cars at the event, held at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC), from 14th to 15th January 2023. To celebrate the world of car customisation, the Performance and Tuning Car Show is searchingContinue reading “Vote For Your Top Tuned Motor “
RAC Dealers and G3 Cosy Up
RAC’s Dealer Network has hooked up with vehicle auction specialist G3 Remarketing to give members access to G3’s physical sales and new technology products, set to result in a series of auctions in Yorkshire next year. RAC dealers will have access to special offers on buyers’ fees as well as to G3’s new valuation andContinue reading “RAC Dealers and G3 Cosy Up “
Hydrogen is Where It’s at for EVs
We’ve been saying for ages that, in the long run, hydrogen will beat electric charging hands down thanks to H2’s far faster refuelling time and undisputed long range capabilities. But, yes, we also know that green hydrogen in volume is some way off so EV charging will have to do for now. But the UKContinue reading “Hydrogen is Where It’s at for EVs “
Give Us a Smile, You’re on Camera!
Abarth,has become the first manufacturer to trial facial recognition technology to understand the emotions people experience when driving (and being passenger) in an Arbath car. An interesting concept, but we don’t quite know why they’re doing it. Working in partnership with the world-renowned Loughborough University, Abarth carried out the experiment to discover the differing emotionsContinue reading “Give Us a Smile, You’re on Camera! “
Calm Down, the Ford Race-Ready Raptor Isn’t for You
Ford’s Next-Generation Ranger Raptor will be its latest off-roading vehicle to tackle the SCORE International Baja 1000 – one of the toughest off-road races in the world – racing on a low-carbon biofuel, demonstrating the potential of these fuels in the most demanding environments. It looks fantastic. But you can’t have one as the race-preppedContinue reading “Calm Down, the Ford Race-Ready Raptor Isn’t for You “
Lotus – On the Button with Fittipaldi
Two of the most famous names in Formula 1 have been behind the wheel of the stunning Lotus Evija all-electric hypercar during one amazing week at Hethel. Emerson Fittipaldi is the Lotus legend whose racing success in the Type 72 exactly 50 years ago has inspired development of the Lotus Evija Fittialdi. He was atContinue reading “Lotus – On the Button with Fittipaldi “
Dubai Buyers for West Way Nissan
Dubai-based retailer AW Rostamani Group is the buyer for the nine West Way car retail sites recently put on the market by Nissan Motors GB. This is part of Nissan’s divestment plans – Glyn Hopkin and Hendy have already tucked in to other parts of the business. But the AW Rostamani Group purchase isContinue reading “Dubai Buyers for West Way Nissan “
A Third of Young Drivers Sideline Repairs
More than a third of drivers aged 17 to 24 (37%) are putting off necessary repairs to their vehicles in an attempt to cut their outgoings as the cost-of-living crisis bites, research from the 2022 RAC Report on Motoring has found. Nearly a fifth of young people (16%) say they are delaying getting major repairs made –Continue reading “A Third of Young Drivers Sideline Repairs “
Where Now for British Volt?
It wasn’t too long ago that we were heralding the battery firm British Volt and its planned £3.8bn gigafactory plant in the North East. Now it is struggling and required a five week reprieve from an anonymous source, injecting funds to hopefully underpin future stability. But all is not well. We’re hearing that employees haveContinue reading “Where Now for British Volt? “
Ebay: Used Car Prices Up Again
Ebay is reporting that used car retail prices have gone up for the third month in a row in October, this time by 2% month-on-month. The report reckons that franchised dealers’ sales are up 2.5% and that car supermarkets have risen 2.1%. Lower down, because they carry often older stock, independents enjoyed a rise ofContinue reading “Ebay: Used Car Prices Up Again “
Joe Wicks Walks With Mini
The Body Coach, aka Joe Wicks MBE, is back on the road with Mini as he launches Walk with Joe – a new campaign powered by Big Love and supported by parkrun. Over the first two weekends in November, the nation’s favourite P.E. teacher invites you to join him as he leads a series ofContinue reading “Joe Wicks Walks With Mini “
First Hummer EV Arrives
High-performance and luxury car specialist Clive Sutton has brought the first GMC Hummer EV Pickup to the UK. The fully-electric truck pairs more than 350 miles of zero-emission range with blistering supertruck performance. With 1,000hp and 1,200lb-ft torque the electric Hummer can hit 60mph in just 3.3 seconds, making it supercar fast while boasting expansiveContinue reading “First Hummer EV Arrives “
YouGov Study: Buy Online or in Dealership?
YouGov has conducted a major study looking at whether car buyers prefer to buy online or from a dealership. The survey recognises that three in five global consumers would rather buy groceries in-person (60%) than online, more than half of respondents say the same about clothes and vehicles (52% each). Video games (10%), travel servicesContinue reading “YouGov Study: Buy Online or in Dealership? “
Isuzu Dealer Team Raises £15k for Macmillan
A valiant team of 15 employees from Hunt Forest Group, an Isuzu dealer with showrooms in Blashford, Chilbolton and Isle of Wight, have successfully completed a 26-mile hike as a fundraising incentive, generating over £15,000 in donations for Macmillan Cancer Support. Starting in Weymouth, the team of hikers traversed thirteen miles across the Jurassic CoastContinue reading “Isuzu Dealer Team Raises £15k for Macmillan “
2015 Porsche Sells for £1.07 Million
A 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder has just sold at Collecting Cars auction for a staggering £1.07 million. Yes, that’s over a mill for a 2015 Porsche. Really. OK, it’s a special model and in great nick, having only done 3,602 miles, but come on! What did the buyer get for that? A 4.6-litre V8, coupledContinue reading “2015 Porsche Sells for £1.07 Million “
Environmentally-focussed Car Comparison Website to Launch
Karfu.com is being launched later this year as a new way to guide consumers to the best vehicle or access option based on their needs, location, budget, preferences and their concern for their vehicle’s environmental impact. A waiting list is now open, supported by mobility news and content, ahead of Karfu’s planned launch of the comparison service later this year. As an impartial comparison website,Continue reading “Environmentally-focussed Car Comparison Website to Launch “
First Look at Maserati GranCabrio
The funky new Maserati GranCabrio prototypes are now taking to the streets of Modena for the initial stages of development testing. The recent GranTurismo and now the GranCabrio are the brand’s first cars to adopt a 100% electric solution. Ahead of the launch of the new GranCabrio, expected next year, the prototype models are undergoingContinue reading “First Look at Maserati GranCabrio “
Warning Against Cheap Cars Offered by Criminals
You know the old saying ‘if it’s too good to be true then it’s not true’? Well here is a case in point. Criminal gangs are targeting UK car buyers by placing adverts for cheap used cars and then luring them in with the aim of a cash upfront payment before they disappear off theContinue reading “Warning Against Cheap Cars Offered by Criminals “
Ford Pies Off the Fiesta
So, the rumours are swirling around that Ford has finally had enough of the Fiesta and it will soon consign it to the breakers’ yard of eternity. At least this is what various reports are claiming. Can it be true? Will you miss the Ford Fiesta? After all, it has sold well over five millionContinue reading “Ford Pies Off the Fiesta “
Rishi – Sort Things Out Pronto!
After the latest circus of chaos surrounding our beloved Government, poor old Rishi Sunak was left without a chair when the music stopped so he has to grasp the poisoned chalice that is the job of being Prime Minister. Poor bloke. The first thing he did when he got into No. 10 was to appointContinue reading “Rishi – Sort Things Out Pronto! “
At Last! The McLaren Christmas Gift Guide is Here!
Thank goodness. Just when we were starting to panic over what to get the family for Christmas, luxury supercar maker McLaren Automotive has unveiled its 2022 gift guide just in time. This year, McLaren offers up some footwear, a travel collection and a model car. Yes, footwear. The APL McLaren HySpeedTM footwear collaboration is apparently a performance-focused collaborationContinue reading “At Last! The McLaren Christmas Gift Guide is Here! “
Hyundai’s ‘Software Defined’ Vehicles
Hyundai Motor Group has committed to transform customer experience and deliver an unprecedented era of mobility via constantly evolving software technology including Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates for all models by 2025. Chung Kook Park, President and Head of R&D Division, Hyundai Motor Group, was speaking at Unlock, the ‘Software Age Global Forum’. He said: “By transformingContinue reading “Hyundai’s ‘Software Defined’ Vehicles “
Corsa is Carbuyer’s Best Used Car of the Year
Vauxhall’s Corsa has been awarded the prestigious Used Car of the Year by Carbuyer’s team of experts, with judges praising the Corsa for its practicality, low running costs and driving dynamics. All important assets for the real life car driver. It’s appropriate recognition for the Corsa, seen by many as ‘just right’ for their modestContinue reading “Corsa is Carbuyer’s Best Used Car of the Year “
Peugeot 408 Opens for Business
Peugeot has opened the order books on its new 408 First Edition, although only a measly 50 units will be available to buy in the UK. What’s so special? Why such a limited run for us non-Europeans? The 408 First Edition comes with a plug-in hybrid 225hp powertrain and an enhanced spec based on theContinue reading “Peugeot 408 Opens for Business “
New 177 mph BMW M2
BMW is launching its formidable new £61,000 M2 early next year, which it says builds on its predecessor’s strengths. The six cylinder in-line engine, manual gearbox option, rear-wheel drive and advanced control/operating concept are going to get Beemer fans very excited. With a maximum output of 460hp – 90hp more than the original BMW M2Continue reading “New 177 mph BMW M2 “
Kia Subsidises Network’s Labour Rates
Kia UK has announced that it will help its dealer network’s aftersales departments by subsidising labour rates. The Kia Business Service Promise sees Kia pushing for more fleet service work by putting a cap on the hourly service labour rate for fleet customers at £49 + VAT, with Kia UK underpinning this discounted rate. Under theContinue reading “Kia Subsidises Network’s Labour Rates “
Jaguar Dealers Put Manufacturer Bottom
We never thought we’d be saying this, but according to Car Dealer Mag’s Car Dealer Power survey, Jag dealers don’t think that much of Jaguar. It’s true. Jag has finished 24th out of 24 manufacturers in the survey, 10 places down from last year. Oh dear. Dealers score their manufacturers across 13 categories to arriveContinue reading “Jaguar Dealers Put Manufacturer Bottom “
Mini Soft-top is Coming Home
Good news for UK car manufacturing: the next-generation Mini Convertible is going to be built at the Oxford plant, BMW has said. But for the Oxford plant it’s a case of win some/lose some, as it will no longer be building the electric hatchbacks it currently makes, although the maker reckons those will come backContinue reading “Mini Soft-top is Coming Home “
Kia Scoops Record 5 Awards
Kia has had one hell of a week! It won five – yes five – accolades at the News UK Motor Awards, including for the all-new Sportage and Niro, which received two gongs each. The fifth trophy was for Kia overall, with the brand picking up the ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ award. Paul Philpott, PresidentContinue reading “Kia Scoops Record 5 Awards “
Falling £ Opens Doors to Overseas Investors
Automotive sector consultancy MHA has fuelled debate that the dismal performance of the pound, following the arrival of our new Prime Minister, throws the spotlight on potential investments into the UK car retail sector from overseas. Having already asked a few months ago if now is a good time to sell a Retail Car business?,Continue reading “Falling £ Opens Doors to Overseas Investors “
Kia App Ups the Short-Term Rental Ante
Kia UK Limited has expanded its Kia Rental service, with a new digital app to streamline the car rental experience, paving the way for smart short-term car hire for hourly, daily and weekly hire periods. The app allows customers to view, book and manage rentals, as well as sign digital rental agreements – all withContinue reading “Kia App Ups the Short-Term Rental Ante “
Government’s Surprise Plug-In Grant Extension
In a move some cite as a desperate bid for Liz Truss’s government to claw back some credibility – having totally banjaxed the economy in recent weeks – the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) has extended the Plug-in Vehicle Grant delivery period. The OZEV reasoned that, due to on-going supply side constraints to semi-conductors,Continue reading “Government’s Surprise Plug-In Grant Extension “
Only 15 New Audi R8 Coupes for UK Market
A mere twelve year after the first Audi R8 GT, Audi is launching the second edition of this exclusive super sports car: the new Audi R8 Coupé V10 GT RWD. Stand back. This is a 5.2-litre, naturally-aspirated V10 engine with an output of 620PS and a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for faster shifts. Here’s theContinue reading “Only 15 New Audi R8 Coupes for UK Market “
Bonjour DS!
DS Automobiles has opened its order books for the New DS 7. With prices starting from £36,760 OTR, the refreshed New DS 7 is available in five trim levels, with deliveries commencing in November. DS reckon that French savoir-faire and craftmanship is tangible across the DS 7 range, coupled with the latest infotainment and safetyContinue reading “Bonjour DS! “
Vertu Expansion ‘Anywhere, Any Time’
Look out for further growth from mega-dealer Vertu Motors after chief exec Robert Forrester was interviewed by AM saying they could grow “anywhere at any time”. This comes after Vertu posted improved profits for in its H1 results. The H1 update from the PLC that includes Vertu Motors, Bristol Street Motors and Macklin Motors showedContinue reading “Vertu Expansion ‘Anywhere, Any Time’ “
Fancy Porsche 911 Cabriolet as an EV?
Everrati, which specialises in redefining automotive icons, has launched its electrified Porsche 911 (964) Wide Body Cabriolet model – which it says is the first of its kind in the world. Bringing together open-top zero-emission motoring with iconic design, Everrati say the 964 Wide Body Cabriolet is capable of delivering supercar levels of roof-down performanceContinue reading “Fancy Porsche 911 Cabriolet as an EV? “
Sept Plate Change Sees New Car Market Up
The SMMT is reporting that the UK new car market recorded its second successive month of growth in September, with registrations rising 4.6%. After some motor trade experts questioned the ongoing relevance of the plate change, and during what is typically the second biggest month of the year for the sector, 225,269 cars joined Britain’s roads. While this was a 9,957 unit increase on last year, when the industry recorded its weakest September sinceContinue reading “Sept Plate Change Sees New Car Market Up “
Football Boot Recycling Scheme From Peugeot
Peugeot has joined forces with football boot brand Sokito to help launch the world’s first football boot recycling scheme, which began with a 2,000-mile journey to Italy transporting 400 pairs of football boots in Peugeot’s e-Expert electric van. With an estimated 12.5 million football boots across Europe and the USA ending up in landfill eachContinue reading “Football Boot Recycling Scheme From Peugeot “
Motorpoint’s Huge H1 Revenue Rise
Used car supermarket giant Motorpoint has enjoyed a 30% annual rise in H1 revenues, up to a huge £785 million. Much of this is down to it selling higher-end cars. On top of this, having just opened in Edinburgh, Motorpoint Coventry will be open for business later this month. Its statement confirmed that the companyContinue reading “Motorpoint’s Huge H1 Revenue Rise “
Hyundai Fastest-Growing Top 10 Make
The latest September UK car sales figures show that Hyundai to be the fastest growing top 10 manufacturer in the country for sales performance. Its market share now stands at 5.3% – its best ever performance – according to the latest new car registrations data released by the SMMT. This represents year-on-year growth of 21.1%. AshleyContinue reading “Hyundai Fastest-Growing Top 10 Make “
World’s Fastest EV Charger?
Power supply maker Zerova is set to unveil what it says will be the world’s fastest electric vehicle charger, with an output of up to 480kw of power. It will also be able to charge four cars at the same time and fully charge a vehicle in 10 minutes. The 4th Generation Four Gun ChargerContinue reading “World’s Fastest EV Charger? “
Cars and Books – The Perfect Match?
Porter Press is promoting what it claims as a genuine first in the automotive world – the Motoring Literary & Art Festival, taking place on 6 November at Whittlebury Park, the motorsport-themed hotel located ‘next door’ to the famous Silverstone race circuit. It sounds a bit posh for the likes of us oiks, but they’reContinue reading “Cars and Books – The Perfect Match? “
Used Premium Brands ‘Unreliable’ – What Car?
A new What Car? study reveals that the mighty Land Rover Discovery is the most unreliable used car. With around 25,000 car owners participating, this is one of the UK’s most thorough surveys of used cars’ reputations and the top brands do not come out of it well. The What Car? Reliability Survey found thatContinue reading “Used Premium Brands ‘Unreliable’ – What Car? “
Motorpoint Opens in Edinburgh
Motorpoint – the UK’s largest independent retailer of nearly new cars and vans – has pulled together a huge stock of 400 of the vehicles most in demand by Edinburgh drivers as it opens its doors today. Despite a nationwide shortage of new and nearly new vehicles, the Motorpoint team in Edinburgh has worked tirelesslyContinue reading “Motorpoint Opens in Edinburgh “
Maserati Store…With Wine
Maserati has unveiled its new global retail store concept. As you might expect, there’s a lot of old cobblers being talked about what is essentially a posh car showroom. But it will have wine available. Don’t get us wrong, it’s very impressive. It’s also in Milan, so it’s classy. But please read and enjoy theseContinue reading “Maserati Store…With Wine “
Keep ICE Cars After 2030?
Fuel card comparison website iCompario has issued a study claiming that around two thirds of UK motorists oppose the planned phasing out of selling petrol and diesel cars after 2030. Can that really be true? If so, we’re amazed. Apparently, over 80% of drivers over the age of 55 reckon they can’t afford to switch. Continue reading “Keep ICE Cars After 2030? “
Fisker EV – Can It Really Do 2,000 Miles?
Fisker reports that 95 prototype Fisker Oceans have already rolled off partner Magna Steyr’s production system. What we like about this EV is the fact its roof looks almost entirely made of PVs. What is perhaps more interesting is that, in the right sunny conditions, Fisker reckons the Ocean could well achieve 2,000 miles…but that’sContinue reading “Fisker EV – Can It Really Do 2,000 Miles? “
Government Mini Budget – Fallout Continues
Although many industry experts were quick to welcome some of the smaller details in the Chancellor’s ‘budget that was not a budget’ last week, it seems that the wider and longer-lasting impact is still only starting to be felt by individuals and businesses alike. With an unprecedented intervention by the Bank of England (which LizContinue reading “Government Mini Budget – Fallout Continues “
Rutting Deers Warning to Drivers
Stop sniggering at the back, this is serious. It seems that the friskier deers get during their rutting season, the more prone they are to wandering in a blissed-out, post-coital state onto a road and getting hit by a car. So road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is advising drivers to take extra care inContinue reading “Rutting Deers Warning to Drivers “
Mystery Over Tesla’s Berlin Factory
The future of Tesla’s Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg – which the company heralded as its first manufacturing location in Europe and its most advanced, sustainable and efficient facility yet – is today shrouded in doubt with rumours that construction on the site has come to a halt. Media around the world carried the story that work wasContinue reading “Mystery Over Tesla’s Berlin Factory “
Mazda MX-5 Enters Guinness Book of Records
So this is what you have to do to get a prestigious entry into the Guinness Book of Records. Get a load of people together with the same model car and parade around somewhere famous. It could be the Ford Anglia next week, but last week it was the Mazda MX-5. Held at Modena CircuitContinue reading “Mazda MX-5 Enters Guinness Book of Records “
Cost Of Living Sees Change in Driving Habits
We’re all skint and we’re getting skinter, so no wonder that we’re not using the car as much. The good folks at Kia have added a bit of science to this by surveying drivers to prove it. Nearly three quarters of us say we’re using the car differently to save money. Makes sense to us.Continue reading “Cost Of Living Sees Change in Driving Habits “
Start Rescue Achieves Which? Status
We’ve for to confess, we had not ever heard of Start Rescue before we saw this piece of news, but let’s hope this helps raise their profile because they’re clearly doing something right. Nationwide roadside rescue and recovery provider Start Rescue has been named as the UK’s leading breakdown company in a new Which? Recommended Provider customer survey. TheContinue reading “Start Rescue Achieves Which? Status “
Polestar to Open Flagship Battersea Outlet
Swedish electric performance car brand, Polestar will open its UK flagship Space at the iconic Battersea Power Station on 14 October in the form of Endeavour Automotive. When the Grade II listed building opens its doors to the public for the first time in history the Space (as Polestar call it – it’s never aContinue reading “Polestar to Open Flagship Battersea Outlet “
Admiral Backs Wagonex
We reported some time ago that Admiral Group was planning to invest in a variety of motor trade companies and it has emerged that car subscription specialist Wagonex is the very first to receive Admiral Group’s investment via its venture business Admiral Pioneer. Wagonex has already achieved a lot in its few short years, partneringContinue reading “Admiral Backs Wagonex “
Interest Rates Up to 2.25%
The Bank of England this week raised interest rates by 0.5% to 2.25%. this was despite the Monetary Policy Committee showing uncertainty over the best approach to stem inflation. Car retailers are, as we speak, scratching their heads to figure out exactly how this will affect their businesses. The increase was lower than many predicted. ButContinue reading “Interest Rates Up to 2.25%“
Police Hunt Car Thief Who Injured Staff
Two members of staff at a Hinkley dealership have been injured as a car thief sped off in a stolen BMW. Police are hunting the thief and his accomplice. The man pretended to be a potential customer and was shown a BMW 4-Series by a salesmen/ But, when he got into the Beemer, he spedContinue reading “Police Hunt Car Thief Who Injured Staff “
IGA Warns of Energy Crisis Icy Grip
Following the announcement of the government’s Energy Bill Relief Scheme, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) is warning that additional support will be needed to help independent garage businesses survive the ongoing energy price crisis and protect UK road safety. The scheme, announced yesterday, will fix wholesale energy prices for businesses at £211 per MWh forContinue reading “IGA Warns of Energy Crisis Icy Grip “
Another New Premium EV Brand
Another week, another premium EV brand is launched on the unsuspecting public. This time it’s the Aehra, said to be a global ultra premium electric automotive brand. The Aehra team has revealed preview images of its SUV model ahead of unveiling the final vehicle design and name next month. The images depict a design profoundlyContinue reading “Another New Premium EV Brand “
Wholesale Used Car Sector ‘Starved’
News that stocks are extremely low in the wholesale used car market won’t come as a surprise to many, but Shoreham Vehicle Auctions have now declared that the industry is being ‘starved of repossessions’ due to the growing number of owners choosing to sell their cars instead of passing them back to finance companies. ThisContinue reading “Wholesale Used Car Sector ‘Starved’ “
Elton’s Classic Bentley Up For Grabs
Can You Feel The Love Tonight for leading online classic and specialist vehicle auction site Car & Classic’s Bentley Continental R? No Tiny Dancer, the majestic 1992 Bentley would already guarantee quite the presence on the road, with its 6.75 litre V8 engine, unblemished looks and that iconic badge, but the one being auctioned byContinue reading “Elton’s Classic Bentley Up For Grabs “
Vegan BMW and Mini Interiors On Menu
The BMW Group plans to launch its first vehicles featuring completely vegan interiors in 2023. This is being made possible primarily through the development of innovative materials with leather-like properties. It will also be possible to use these materials for steering wheel surfaces, which must fulfil demanding criteria when it comes to feel, premium appearanceContinue reading “Vegan BMW and Mini Interiors On Menu “
Alfa Romeo F1 Rips Up the Streets of Milan
The exciting video of Alfa Romeo F1 Team ORLEN single-seater through the streets of Milan goes on air on Alfa Romeo’s official social media and YouTube channels to celebrate the sporting bond among the brand, its hometown and the historic Monza circuit, which turns 100 this year. A unique and unconventional tribute to Italian motorsportContinue reading “Alfa Romeo F1 Rips Up the Streets of Milan “
Farewell White Van Man – Ford E-Transit Rules
Ford Pro today introduced the van small businesses across Europe have been waiting for. The all-new E-Transit Custom, the all-electric version of Europe’s best-selling van, 1 is designed from the ground up to deliver new levels of productivity to customers in the one-tonne van segment. Ford brought the global power of its research, engineering and software capabilitiesContinue reading “Farewell White Van Man – Ford E-Transit Rules “
What’s Going On at Cazoo?
News landed yesterday that leading online used car retailer Cazoo is pulling out of Europe to concentrate on the UK market. That means its operations in Italy, France, Germany and Spain will be affected, perhaps not that surprising after recent news of job cuts, cost cutting and horrendous losses. It still hopes to break evenContinue reading “What’s Going On at Cazoo? “
N Ireland’s Halliday’s Sets Out Ambitions
Northern Irish dealership powerhouse, Halliday’s of Bushmills, has laid out its plans to double turnover to £26m within the next five years. This should see the creation of around 40 more jobs and will be based, at least in part, on growth with new manufacturers’ brands added to the portfolio. Founded over 50 years ago,Continue reading “N Ireland’s Halliday’s Sets Out Ambitions “
Cheaper Cars Centre Stage
The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is having a significant impact on the type and cost of new cars that consumers are enquiring about, according to new data from carwow, the UK’s leading independent portal for new car sales. During August, interest in more affordable cars rose sharply, with enquiries for new cars costing less than £20,000Continue reading “Cheaper Cars Centre Stage “
NFDA Welcomes Government’s Energy Support
With Prime Minister Liz Truss announcing that the Government will be providing businesses with support for their energy bills over the next six months, the NFDA has welcomed the much-needed help. “It is encouraging to see that the Prime minister, Liz Truss, has taken immediate action against the on-going energy crisis following her announcement toContinue reading “NFDA Welcomes Government’s Energy Support “
Car Dealer Mag’s Power 2022 Shortlist Revealed
Car Dealer mag has issued the shortlist of products, services and suppliers as voted for by dealers up and down the country. The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on Wednesday, October 12. So here it is. Do you agree with the shortlist? Cleaning Product of the Year Recruitment Agency of the YearContinue reading “Car Dealer Mag’s Power 2022 Shortlist Revealed “
Drivers Would Pay Extra to Jump Queue
The latest research from Close Brothers reckons that almost half the customers planning to buy a car in 2023 would happily pay over the odds if it meant they could get their car earlier. In this response to supply chain problems causing long waiting lists, 47% of the 2,000+ people polled basically invited dealers toContinue reading “Drivers Would Pay Extra to Jump Queue “
Automotive Transformation Group’s New CEO
Automotive Transformation Group, which helps simplify vehicle sales for retailers and OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), has appointed Tim Smith as its new CEO. It’s a step up from his long-term role as chief revenue officer. The move follows the recent launch of ATG’s proprietary NetDirector® Digital Retailing Suite, designed to support Retailers, OEMs, Financiers and Fleet suppliers throughContinue reading “Automotive Transformation Group’s New CEO “
JLR Dealers ‘Business Planning in the Dark’
It seems that barely a week goes by without manufacturers being accused of short-changing their dealer networks and this time it’s JLR, according to a new story in AM Online. It’s well known that the manufacturer is going to open its own retail outlets but at least one JLR franchisee told AM that the lackContinue reading “JLR Dealers ‘Business Planning in the Dark’ “
100-Year Old Southport Dealership Blames Cazoo etc For Closure
Oldfields of Southport has been a well-respected, family-run dealership for over 100 years. But it will soon close its doors for good. And all thanks to the growing dominance of the likes of Cazoo and Cinch. It’s a salutary tale and one that will become increasingly commonplace as the industry changes forever. But this closureContinue reading “100-Year Old Southport Dealership Blames Cazoo etc For Closure “
BCA: Used Car Prices Rise Again
Used car values at BCA rose for the second month running to reach £9,464 in July 2022, with performance against guide values also improving compared to June. Values improved by £268 across the board compared to June 2022, equivalent to an 2.9% increase over the month and an impressive indication of market strength and stabilityContinue reading “BCA: Used Car Prices Rise Again “
Truss To Drop Smart Motorways, Maybe Drop Speed Limits
At the final Tory leadership hustings, future PM (there’s a scary thought!) Liz Truss said she will drop the ‘smart motorways experiment’ and will consider ‘look at’ the issue of motorway speed limits. Specifically in an answer to an audience member asking about smart motorways, she said: “I absolutely think that we need to reviewContinue reading “Truss To Drop Smart Motorways, Maybe Drop Speed Limits “
Thugs Attack Cars – Reward Offered
Davies Car Sales in Warrington is the latest dealership to have its vehicle stock attacked and damaged, this time by three cowardly thugs who ran by in their hoods throwing bricks at the cars lined up on the forecourt. All of this was caught by CCTV and it’s not on YouTube here: CCTV: Yobs attackContinue reading “Thugs Attack Cars – Reward Offered “
IGA Seeks Government Help With Energy Bills
The Independent Garage Association (IGA), the largest trade body representing UK independent garages, is urging the government to implement measures to protect small businesses from soaring energy costs. Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive comments: “As with small businesses in many other sectors across the UK, rising energy costs are a huge burden for independent garages. AsContinue reading “IGA Seeks Government Help With Energy Bills “
Polestar Hits $1 Billion Mark in H1 2022
Polestar, the new kid on the block Swedish electric performance car brand, is reporting that it has achieved a turnover of $1 billion in the first six months of 2022. While it doesn’t seem five minutes since the manufacturer first opened its initial outlets, we’ve got to admit it’s a hell of an achievement. NotContinue reading “Polestar Hits $1 Billion Mark in H1 2022 “