Wales’ 14 Welsh Government Ministers used official cars for nearly 2,000 trips in 12 months. An answer to a written question by the Welsh Conservatives showed that the Labour Government has used ministerial cars 1,979 times from May 2022 to April 2023. The most travelled in official cars was the Minister for Social Justice and Chief Whip, Jane Hutt, at 270,and the fewest car journeys were made … [Read more...]
Finance
Government scheme’s failing apprentices and business
The UK’s apprenticeship system needs a radical overhaul if businesses which make regular levy payments into the scheme are to be able to train new recruits using these funds, according to a new report from business group Logistics UK. According to Logistics UK’s Skills Review, there is great interest across industry to take on apprentices however, over the past five years, only 4% of levy paying … [Read more...]
UK e-vans policy is crashing, say dealers
Government policy on electric vans is short-sighted and in a mess, according to the commercial vehicle division of the National Franchised Dealers Association. Last week, NFDA’s Commercial Vehicle division wrote to the Department of Transport highlighting key regulatory issues that are holding back the Electric Van market. Since 2018 the government have been aware of the need for a smooth … [Read more...]
EV charging sparks issues for motorists
The debate about charging electric cars is an increasingly live issue, according to a new Opinium survey of 2,000 UK drivers. Over three-quarters (77%) think it is unfair that electric car owners who are unable to install a home charger (e.g., in flats or with no off-street parking) have no option but to pay higher rates at public charging points. This is highest amongst under 34s (84%) and … [Read more...]
20 is plenty Welsh map published
Thousands of miles of roads in Wales will be covered by a new default 20mph limit from Sunday 17 September and Welsh Government has published a comprehensive map of the new limits It also covers roads where the new limit will not apply and councils may apply to retain the current 30mph restriction, but only after they have removed the current 30mph and put up the 20mph signs before reintroducing … [Read more...]
Newcomers 21 August
Bentley has added 18-cms to the wheelbase of its Bentayga SUV to create the 180mph Extended Wheelbase Mulliner model now on sale. It features sustainable materials for the seats and trimmings, has distinctive grille and wheels, and is fitted with the familiar 550ps Bentley 4.0V8 petrol engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive. … [Read more...]
Bank Holiday tips to make the most of it
It’s nearly the bank holiday that UK households dream about as the Met Office predicts drier and brighter conditions across the country. Millions will be hitting the roads to visit friends, family, and holiday destinations, all while soaking up the summer sunshine. Whilst this is a great time to explore the country, drivers need to take extra precautions on their busier roads so give yourself … [Read more...]
Councils wasting money on ‘wrong’ ev-chargers
Councils are wasting much needed money and installing the wrong on-street ev charging systems instead of creating community ultra-rapid hubs. That’s the opinion of Asif Ghafoor, CEO & co-founder of Be.EV believes that whilst public money has been allocated to improve charge networks, it's sitting unspent because of pointless bureaucracy and a lack of understanding from local authorities - … [Read more...]
Newslines 21 August
A family of dodgy car dealers has been fined after admitting selling a ‘dangerous and unroadworthy’ vehicle and refusing to honour its warranty. David, Susan and James Bonner-Evans all pleaded guilty to breaching consumer protection regulations in relation to NRJ Motor Company, Bynea, Llanelli and were ordered to pay fines, costs and compensation of almost £13,000 after selling a Fiat Punto to a … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: BMW X1 xDrive2.3i M Sport
As the motor industry increasingly turns in on itself and concentrates on niche models it’s good to see the BMW X1 arrive, genuinely offering something for everyone. Sport, xLine and M Sport trim levels span seven models including three or four cylinder petrol-hybrid units, four-cylinder diesels and an electric version to ensure there is something for every requirement or preference. To that … [Read more...]