The IMI predicts a 160,000 shortfall of workers in the UK automotive sector by 2031 based on figures from its Automotive Sector Employment report. "We’re trying to turn the tide. We’re lobbying government, the automotive industry and the education sector to invest in addressing the shortage of qualified EV technicians, and the majority have stepped up to the challenge. But our latest report … [Read more...]
Retail
As the 72-plate looms, take advice on getting a good deal
The 1 September sees the second vehicle plate change of 2022 in England, Wales and Scotland, with the arrival of the new “72” vehicle registration. A car is often the second most significant purchase after buying a property and The Motor Ombudsman dedicated to the automotive sector is highlighting ten handy tips for motorists when looking to get behind the wheel of a new vehicle. Shop around … [Read more...]
Fleets see savings in EVs
Cost advantages and lower environmental impact head the list of reasons why UK businesses are electrifying their company cars, suggests research from the latest Arval Mobility Observatory Barometer. The factors mentioned by fleet and mobility decision makers in the research were topped by reduced fuel expenses (66% of those questioned – up from 54% in 2021) and, in second place, tax incentives … [Read more...]
Suzuki SX4 is a best buy
The average value of a used car has rocketed in just two years according to Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive marketplace. When compared to pre-pandemic June 2019, a used car has seen a typical increase in value of a whopping £4,100. That’s the findings from Auto Trader’s monthly Retail Price Index, which is based on daily pricing analysis of circa 900,000 vehicles and is set to be used … [Read more...]
Newslines 23 August
Octopus Energy Group and National Grid ESO have announced the first successful integration of vehicle-to-grid technology, using a test environment of the Balancing Mechanism, the primary tool used by National Grid ESO to balance Great Britain’s electricity system in real-time. This is the first time that vehicle-to-grid technology has been demonstrated in Great Britain to show that electric … [Read more...]
Mixed signals in bus and cv sales, say manufacturers
SMMT released its second quarter registration figures for the HGV, Bus and Coach sectors, and mixed signals could be found. The UK new bus and coach market grew slightly by 0.6% to 1,066 units, with the good news that single-deck buses were up 65.3%, while double deckers – which represent a greater share of the market – fell by -24.9%. While ridership levels have gradually been improving since … [Read more...]
Newslines 23 August
The Swedish electric performance car company Polestar confirmed plans to put their electric roadster concept into production. The production car is expected to launch in 2026 as the Polestar 6 electric performance roadster and interested customers can now reserve a car online. Latest research shows that an increasing number of young Brits are bracing themselves for the huge … [Read more...]
Orders open for ID.Buzz Cargo
Order books for the new all-electric ID. Buzz Cargo are officially open with prices from £38,125 or just £479 per month. Customers can choose between two trim levels that offer business-ready practicality, advanced connectivity, and driver assistance systems: Commerce and Commerce Plus, both fitted with a 77kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motor producing a power output of 204 PS and … [Read more...]
Prepare for the August getaway in time
The August bank holiday weekend is almost upon us and with it comes the chance to get away for a few days. However, it is important that motorists stay safe when getting away this bank holiday so National Scrap Car has put together a few tips to help motorists safely get through the bank holiday. Do the essential checks before setting off Before setting off on any long journey motorists should … [Read more...]
First drive: Honda Civic e:HEV Sport
If you’ve ever spent a night sleeping in your car it can be a very disconcerting place to wake up, but that was one of the tests engineers set themselves creating the new Honda Civic e:HEV. Sleeping on the job took on a whole new purpose for them to evaluate the interior and the view out of it after a night’s kip in the car. What is seen when opening the eyes, how relaxing it is and what does … [Read more...]