Watch Out, Pimp My Ride Is Back
MTV UK and eBay are bringing iconic noughties makeover series Pimp My Ride back to British screens this month. Hosted by British rapper, Lady Leshurr, the new six-part series premieres on MTV UK’s YouTube channel on Friday 19th August. For 2022, Pimp My Ride will highlight to would-be DIY motorists the cost and environmental benefits of buying pre-loved ‘green’ partsContinue reading “Watch Out, Pimp My Ride Is Back “
JLR New EV Test Facility
This space age-looking room isn’t a sneak peek at Stormzy’s hi-tec recording studio, it’s Jaguar Land Rover’s brand new facility to test the next generation of vehicles for electrical and radio interference. The Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) laboratory at Gaydon will ensure future vehicles meet current and future legislation and quality standards for connectivity and electronics.Continue reading “JLR New EV Test Facility “
Mackie Motors’ Critical High Court Case
In a High Court case about ‘internet gossip’, ‘clickbait’ and the attempt to blacken the name of a car dealer’s estranged wife, the ongoing Mackie Motor High Court case may have more twists and turns than the Wagatha Christie case, but it remains vitally important to the relationships that pin together the franchised dealer networkContinue reading “Mackie Motors’ Critical High Court Case “
Cazoo – Losses Double to £243m
Things are not as they should be down at Cazoo HQ, after the online disruptor posted half-year results showing it has more than doubled its losses against the same period last year. Its financial results for Q1 and Q2 2022 lay bare the firm’s losses at £243m, well over double the losses it made inContinue reading “Cazoo – Losses Double to £243m “
Marshall – More Change
Constellation Automotive-owned Marshall Motor Group has pulled out of the Kia UK franchised dealer network just weeks after long-term CEO Daksh Gupta’s departure was announced. Are the two matters related? Constellation says not, according to reports in AM Online. But this week we saw Drayton Motors take over Marshall’s Scunthorpe Kia franchise and we hearContinue reading “Marshall – More Change “
Another New EV Name
Ares, the Modena-based luxury coachbuilder, has announced the development of a whole new range of electric mobility luxury products including one-off vehicles and small series supercars, along with a motorcycle. It seems its S1 Project, an own-designed supercar, will be the star of the Ares show, and it intends to hit the luxury SUV marketContinue reading “Another New EV Name “
First Ferrari, Now Lambo Delivers Highest Profits
Following the news that Ferrari has hit its highest ever quarterly profits, Automobili Lamborghini has also set a new record, concluding its best six months ever to the end of June 2022 in terms of sales, turnover and profitability. Global deliveries stood at 5,090 units (+4.9%), while in terms of financial indicators turnover reachedContinue reading “First Ferrari, Now Lambo Delivers Highest Profits “
Hyundai Outlines ‘Smart City’ Concept
Hyundai has presented its Smart City master model at the 2022 World Cities Summit in Singapore, representing the vision for how cities will be empowered with sustainable and smart mobility solutions. The model will serve as a guideline for developing smart mobility solutions that support smart cities around the world while revitalizing their urban communities.Continue reading “Hyundai Outlines ‘Smart City’ Concept “
British Motor Show – One Month To Go
With one month to go, organisers of the British Motor Show have revealed the live action, celebrity guests and exhibitors at the event. They’re saying that all the best bits from 2021 are back including the cinch Live Arena, the National Geographic Live Stage, the Premier GT Supercar Paddock and an extended cinch Family Zone.Continue reading “British Motor Show – One Month To Go “
Ferrari Profits Soar as Cost of Living Hurts
It seems that adding a personalised twist to your Ferrari is the way to go if you really want to buy a new supercar this year. Certainly that’s one of the reasons Ferrari has reported its highest ever quarterly profits. Does this seem peculiar, at a time when countries around the world are tightening beltsContinue reading “Ferrari Profits Soar as Cost of Living Hurts “
Nissan’s New EV ARIYA Hits the UK
The first all-electric award winning Nissan ARIYAs have landed at the Port of Tyne this weekend marking the next phase of its journey towards use on UK roads. The next step for these vehicles will be a final quality control check before being sent to dealerships ready for customer test drives and first customer deliveries. Continue reading “Nissan’s New EV ARIYA Hits the UK “
Stellantis Expands Used Car Range
Stellantis has expanded the range of cars available through its approved-used car programme, SPOTiCAR, to allow customers to access models from Fiat, Jeep and Abarth retailers that have joined the programme. Launched in 2021, SPOTiCAR combines approved-used models from across Stellantis group brands on a single platform, along with other brands that a SPOTiCAR RetailerContinue reading “Stellantis Expands Used Car Range “
Auto Trader’s ‘Happy Customers’ Ratings Programme
Auto Trader will be honouring the best dealers for customer service this week with the launch of its ‘Highly Rated 2022’. The firm will be handing out a selection of Highly Rated assets to dealers, including stickers and digital logos to promote ‘exceptional’ customer service. Some dealers will also have a Highly Rated logo addedContinue reading “Auto Trader’s ‘Happy Customers’ Ratings Programme “
EU New Car Sales Plummet
New car sales across the EU have fallen by more than 15%, thanks to ongoing supply chain problems and inflation, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). With 886,510 units registered, this is the lowest month of June on record (in terms of volume) since 1996. All four major EU markets contributed to theContinue reading “EU New Car Sales Plummet “
Beaulieu Celebrates ‘Nifty Fifties’
Beaulieu will be celebrating a golden era of motoring with a brand new Nifty Fifties display, as part of International Autojumble, returning on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September for a packed weekend of buying, selling and automotive enjoyment. Following in the tyre-tracks of the nostalgia-fuelled Forgotten Favourites display at last year’s show, Nifty Fifties will bring together classic vehicles dating from 1950Continue reading “Beaulieu Celebrates ‘Nifty Fifties’ “
Polaris ATVs Head to Dakar Rally…Again
Polaris Off Road Vehicles is pleased to announce the renewal of its partnership with Xtremeplus for the 2022 racing season and the 2023 Dakar Rally. Led by Marco Piana, the French team has been a longstanding partner of Polaris since 2005 when the team owner decided to enrol a team of ATVs in the MoroccoContinue reading “Polaris ATVs Head to Dakar Rally…Again “
Cut Transaction Fees With Open Banking
Bumper, launched last year after being re-branded from Auto Service Finance, is predicting that open banking will soon become the Number One way of paying in car dealerships by 2030. The payment technology means customers can pay directly from personal bank accounts to a dealer’s account, using an app, rather than using third party debitContinue reading “Cut Transaction Fees With Open Banking “
30+ Racing Icons Battle for Dubai GP Revival
This winter the Dubai Autodrome will be the scene for over 30 motorsport icons battling it out for the Dubai GP Revival, including Jochen Mass’s Porsche and last year’s winner, James Hunt’s first Grand Prix winning car and the 1981 Constructors’ Champion, the Williams FW07C. It’s set to be a retro-thriller and other cars alreadyContinue reading “30+ Racing Icons Battle for Dubai GP Revival “
Motorpoint Staff Support Fareshare Charity
A seven-strong group of colleagues from Motorpoint has volunteered their time to support the work of the food bank charity Fareshare at their Nottingham operation. A national charity, Fareshare, is located across the UK and has a warehouse in the Lenton district of Nottingham. It collects tonnes of surplus food from local suppliers and redistributesContinue reading “Motorpoint Staff Support Fareshare Charity “
Hot Summer – Where Are All The Soft Tops?
Sales of cabriolet cars typically rise sharply in the UK during early summer, but new data from carwow suggests that the current cost-of-living crisis could be having a significant negative impact on drop-top demand. During the first two weeks of July, when many areas of the UK experienced some of the highest temperatures ever recorded,Continue reading “Hot Summer – Where Are All The Soft Tops? “
Used Car Supply May Never Return to pre-Covid Levels
The Vehicle Remarketing Association (VRA) has issued a statement saying that, due to changing manufacturer strategies, used car supply may never return to anywhere near its pre-pandemic levels. Philip Nothard, VRA’s chair, said that some manufacturers see greater profits to be made from reducing supply and keeping new vehicle prices high. “For decades, car manufacturingContinue reading “Used Car Supply May Never Return to pre-Covid Levels “
Carwow Website Improves Sourcing of Used Cars
Carwow’s improved Sell Your Car website is designed to enable dealers to locate used cars direct from consumers. Stock will be listed to include full vehicle details, images and CAP valuation on the newly-graded site. The latest website follows a suite of updates to the portal and back-office operations, introduced in April. John Veichmanis, CEO at Carwow,Continue reading “Carwow Website Improves Sourcing of Used Cars “
Used Diesel Volumes Down, EVs Up
Vehicle remarketing specialists Aston Barclay are reporting that the volume of used diesel cars going under their hammer reached an all-time low in Q2, with just 42.7% of their stock being diesel in that period. The company sees this as a major sign that used diesel volumes are falling to coincide with new car fuelContinue reading “Used Diesel Volumes Down, EVs Up “
Market Optimism From Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive’s latest insight report, AutoFocus, gives reason for optimism for the industry, saying signs of recovery are being detected. While the short/medium term will still see small volumes of new and used vehicles come to market, due to the ongoing supply chain issues, the longer term looks rosier, not least due to the increasingContinue reading “Market Optimism From Cox Automotive “
Scary! Only 4 in 10 Know Drink Driving Limits
Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart is reporting that potentially millions of motorists could be unknowingly getting behind the wheel while over the drink-drive limit. That’s according to research commissioned by the UK’s leading independent road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, which has revealed that up to four in ten drivers (42 per cent) of the 1,004Continue reading “Scary! Only 4 in 10 Know Drink Driving Limits “
Electric Lambo? Really?
If ever we needed convincing that the future is green then this is it. Autocar is reporting a conversation with Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann saying that the first fully electric Lambo will arrive in 2028: the all-new 2+2 crossover, which will also soon be joined by an electric Urus SUV. Autocar is also saying itContinue reading “Electric Lambo? Really? “
Cost of Driving is Top Financial Worry
Close Brothers Motor Finance’s Dealer Satisfaction Survey is reporting that the price of cars is the No. 1 priority for car buyers as the cost of living spirals ever upwards, with 74% of dealers saying that a car’s price is top priority for customers looking to buy. Mileage is the second priority. Understandable, with petrolContinue reading “Cost of Driving is Top Financial Worry “
Recycling Lives Buys Glasgow Recycler
Recycling Lives, the leading processor of end-of-life vehicles, has acquired Glasgow-based recycler John R. Adam and Sons, taking the number of its UK locations to 23. John R. Adam and Sons Ltd recycles and exports ferrous and non-ferrous metals, processing up to 600 metric tonnes of steel a day, and Recycling Lives hopes its overallContinue reading “Recycling Lives Buys Glasgow Recycler “
Hendy Fits Defibrillators to 60 Dealerships
With locations across the South and South West, Hendy Group has fitted life-saving defibrillators at 60 dealerships at a cost of £36,000. Property manager John Hendy said: “Colleague welfare is a huge priority for us at Hendy so anything we can do to protect them in a working environment where they spend a lot ofContinue reading “Hendy Fits Defibrillators to 60 Dealerships”
Nissan Sells 13 West Way Outlets
Reports are coming in that 13 Nissan-owned West Way dealerships are being sold as part of the manufacturer’s strategic business review designed to strengthen its portfolio. Various West Way dealerships are going to existing Nissan dealers, including Yeomans in Aldershot and Basingstoke, Glyn Hopkin in Mill Hill, and Hendy in Southampton. The remaining nine sitesContinue reading “Nissan Sells 13 West Way Outlets “
Car Finance New Business Down 4% in May
New figures from the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) show that consumer car finance new business volumes fell in May 2022 by 4% compared with the same month in 2021. The corresponding value of new business grew by 6% over the same period. In the five months to May 2022, new business volumes were 10%Continue reading “Car Finance New Business Down 4% in May”
Classic Nostalgia – Cornucopia of Great Car Stuff
From the BRM to the Spitfire, the Classic Nostalgia event on 16-17 July is set to be a brilliant weekend of old and great cars, planes, you name it. The location is Shelsley Walsh, which for us old ‘uns will ring bells as it’s the scene of some of the greatest hill climbs in yearsContinue reading “Classic Nostalgia – Cornucopia of Great Car Stuff “
MG’s New EV Car and Battery
MG Motor is preparing to launch its all-new MG4 EV in September. It will utilise MG’s Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), a state of the art battery architecture that will underpin the next generation of MG models. Designed for a wide range of vehicles, the MSP can be used flexibly in various models from hatchbacks toContinue reading “MG’s New EV Car and Battery “
Worst Car Registration Figures Since 1990s
The SMMT is saying that the UK’s new car registrations have sunk to their very worst June level since 1996 – a 24.3% decline. Speaking to AM Online, SMMT chief exec Mike Hawes said semiconductor shortages are “stifling the new car market even more than last year’s lockdown” after the organisation reported that a totalContinue reading “Worst Car Registration Figures Since 1990s “
Not ‘Women’s Football’, Just ‘Football’
VW has launched an interesting campaign. At least, it’s interesting to anyone with a fondness for the beautiful game. With the Women’s Euro 2022 competition kicking off this week and reports that half a million tickets have been sold, the VW campaign is built on the provocative hashtag #NotWomensFootball, with the aim of triggering aContinue reading “Not ‘Women’s Football’, Just ‘Football’ “
Motorpoint Freezes Interest Rates To Build Sales
Major independent retailer Motorpoint has capped finance interest rates at 8.9% APR in a bid to help its customers through the pain of the cost-of-living crisis. CEO Mark Carpenter committed the business to the rate for at least the next three months as UK inflation continues to soar and a further slump in new carContinue reading “Motorpoint Freezes Interest Rates To Build Sales “
Cars v. Holidays? Cars Win
Auto Trader CEO Nathan Coe, speaking to Car Dealer, is saying that if push came to shove and consumers had to choose between buying a car and having a holiday, the car purchase would win. Of course, given the parlous state of the economy, this is a real situation plenty of families are facing rightContinue reading “Cars v. Holidays? Cars Win “
Nissan Ariya is Auto Express COTY
The new Nissan Ariya has been named a double winner at this year’s Auto Express Awards, securing both the ‘Best Mid-Sized Company Car’ trophy and the coveted overall ‘Car of the Year’ title. Now available for customers to order, with a fully electric range of up to 329 miles, the Ariya features Japanese-inspired design, aContinue reading “Nissan Ariya is Auto Express COTY “
Bland is Beautiful at Festival of the Unexceptional
Hagerty, the auto enthusiast brand, has launched its 2022 Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional, taking place on Saturday 30 July in Lincolnshire and featuring really rather mundane specimens in mint condition. We love it! Think Bluebird over Bugatti and you’ll get the idea. Festival is the only car show to celebrate a Chevette, applaud an ApplauseContinue reading “Bland is Beautiful at Festival of the Unexceptional “
June’s Used Car Values dip Despite Strong Market
A bit of a weird one, this. Used car prices dipped slightly again this month, despite there still being a strong market. That’s the insight given to Car Dealer Live by Cap HPI’s head of valuations, Derren Martin. With values dropping by 0.9% (on average at the three-year/60,000-mile mark in June) the market still stayedContinue reading “June’s Used Car Values dip Despite Strong Market “
SMMT Demands Action Over Soaring Energy Bills
British automotive manufacturers are calling for urgent action on spiralling costs as new analysis from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveals firms face a £90 million uplift in energy bills this year – equivalent to more than 2,500 automotive jobs – as costs surge. UK electricity prices are the most expensive ofContinue reading “SMMT Demands Action Over Soaring Energy Bills “
BenWell From Ben
To mark the beginning of World Wellbeing Week, Ben, the automotive industry charity, is proud to announce the nationwide launch of BenWell – its pioneering new wellbeing platform, developed specifically for the automotive industry in partnership with Wellonomics. Underpinning BenWell is an insight-led app and web portal which automotive businesses can use to take theContinue reading “BenWell From Ben “
World’s Best Driving Roads On Your Doorstep
Drivers don’t need to travel the globe to find the best driving roads according to the latest research from Alfa Romeo. It has identified the 10 best driving roads in the world and, working with the experts at Getty Images, unearthed their UK equivalents. With the summer holidays just around the corner, Alfa Romeo consultedContinue reading “World’s Best Driving Roads On Your Doorstep “
Pendragon Opens 10 Carstores at Morrisons
Pendragon has boosted the presence of its Sell Your Car and Click & Collect used car sites by launching 10 new popup Carstore Direct outlets in the car parks of Morrisons supermarkets and Homebase stores. As anyone in the motor trade will know, there has been a lot of to-ing and fro-ing with the CarStoreContinue reading “Pendragon Opens 10 Carstores at Morrisons “
Lookers ‘Optimistic’ Despite ‘Inflationary Pressures’
Lookers is keeping sharply focussed and optimistic as it reports that “significant inflationary pressures” are affecting the car retail sector’s performance. In its H1 trading update, Lookers showed that its pre-tax profits were expected to drop around 10% – from just above £50m to around £45m – on 2021’s H1 where Covid lockdowns struck againContinue reading “Lookers ‘Optimistic’ Despite ‘Inflationary Pressures’ “
Volvo’s New Online Fleet Scheme
Volvo Car UK is launching Volvo Fleet and Business Online giving fleet and business customers the ability to identify and source cars they want either online, at a retailer, or through a combination of both. The principles follow those successfully established with the Care by Volvo service offered to retail consumers, but the details haveContinue reading “Volvo’s New Online Fleet Scheme “
Another Week, Another All-Electric Car Launch
It seems hardly a week goes by without some or other manufacturer launching their latest all-electric vehicle. But this one looks a bit special. It’s the Citroën New ë-C4 X, with a 100kW powertrain, 136hp, 260Nm of torque and a range up to 223 miles. Vincent Cobée, Citroën Global CEO, said: “Many customers have told usContinue reading “Another Week, Another All-Electric Car Launch “
Chorley – Home of Real World Football Sponsorship
Forget your Cazoo at Aston Villa and your Chevrolet at Man Utd. Chorley is where the real football/car tie-in happens. Lancashire-based Chorley Group has extended its patronage of the FA Trophy team Chorley FC through to the end of the 2023/24 campaign, in line with Isuzu UK’s recent announcement regarding the title sponsorship of TheContinue reading “Chorley – Home of Real World Football Sponsorship “
Tesla Autopilot Crashes
US regulators are stepping up their investigation of Tesla’s Autopilot function following over a dozen Tesla crashes into parked emergency vehicles over the last four years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a statement saying that the investigation it launched last year is being upgraded. Around 830,000 cars across all four Tesla makes –Continue reading “Tesla Autopilot Crashes “
Carzam Crashes – Investors To Blame?
There is no doubt about the week’s biggest story: Carzam entering into voluntary receivership and founder Peter Waddell being quoted in The Times seemingly laying the blame at the door of rivals such as Cazoo. The whole online car retail market has been rocked not just by this but also by negative news coming fromContinue reading “Carzam Crashes – Investors To Blame? “
Cazoo Cuts Jobs
Just days after Carzam went under, the highest profile online used car pioneer, Cazoo, announced that around 750 people in its workforce will be losing their jobs in a bid to cut costs. We have previously reported that Cazoo’s share price has plummeted spectacularly by over 80% since its high profile NYSE listing and nowContinue reading “Cazoo Cuts Jobs “
NFDA Gets To Grips With Rule Changes
The NFDA is continuing its work on behalf of franchised dealers to get to grips with the newly-introduced block exemption order which could have huge ramifications for dealers nationwide. Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle dealers in the UK, comments on the latestContinue reading “NFDA Gets To Grips With Rule Changes “
Used Car Price Growth Still ‘Resilient’
The like-for-like price of a used car has risen 28.4% in the past 12 months, marking its 26th consecutive month of year-on-year and like-for-like price growth, according to the latest data from the Auto Trader Retail Price Index (RPI). The RPI is based on Auto Trader’s daily pricing analysis of around 900,000 vehicles – the mostContinue reading “Used Car Price Growth Still ‘Resilient’ “
HR Owen Debuts Czinger in London
The Czinger 21C hypercar will be making its first public appearance in the UK at the inaugural Concours on Savile Row event in the heart of London next week. In partnership with H.R. Owen – exclusive UK dealer to Czinger – the 21C will be displayed outside Norton & Sons tailors for the duration of theContinue reading “HR Owen Debuts Czinger in London “
Alfa Romeo Giulia Most ‘Fun’ to Drive
Remember when driving was fun? Well, the Alfa Romeo Giulia has been named as the ‘Most Fun Car to Drive’ at the Auto Trader New Car Awards 2022. Determined by a consumer vote of 156,500 car drivers, the Alfa Romeo Giulia rose above competition including the MINI Electric and the Tesla Model 3. With driversContinue reading “Alfa Romeo Giulia Most ‘Fun’ to Drive “
Escorts, Cortinas and Capris – Classic Ford Heaven
Classic Car Auctions has a variety of fast, classic and restoration project Fords along with their counterparts from the USA coming to auction on the 18 June. If you are a Capri enthusiast, there are three to choose from, including a 1975 RS1300 which has had one owner from new. This one is the Holy Grail as itContinue reading “Escorts, Cortinas and Capris – Classic Ford Heaven “
Ben Steps Up on Cost of Living Rise
Putting food on the table. Filling your car at the pump. Heating your home. All of these everyday essentials are becoming more expensive, while our household incomes are not necessarily increasing to reflect these price rises. This has led to what is now being referred to as a ‘cost of living crisis’ here in theContinue reading “Ben Steps Up on Cost of Living Rise “
Carwow Not Planning to Go Public Yet
Carwow CEO James Hind has commented that now is not a great time to go public, following the ructions within the online dealer market in recent days and weeks. It is noteworthy that Cazoo’s value has tumbled since its NYSE listing. And, of course, Carzam has now closed its doors. “I think we might considerContinue reading “Carwow Not Planning to Go Public Yet “
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 “