The new zero per cent benefit-in-kind rate for electric vans that takes effect on 6 April has been “underpublicised” when it should be helping lead to faster, wider adoption, says the Association of Fleet Operators. Chair Paul Hollick said that a key element of success in boosting demand for electric cars over the last year has been the low level of taxation, and that something similar needs to … [Read more...]
Features
Remobilise for return to normal business
Fleets need to be thinking about how they will “remobilise” their operations as the pandemic ends, says epyx. The company points out that, if the planned vaccination programme now underway is implemented rapidly, something approaching the new normal’s version of business-as-usual could materialise quite quickly. Debbie Fox, commercial director, explained, “Expert views on the speed with which … [Read more...]
Sparks to fly over ev decision making?
An emerging combination of shortages in both new vehicle supply and fleet management skills could lead to “poor decisions” being made as businesses move towards electrification, FleetCheck is warning. Very long lead times – caused by factors including Brexit, the pandemic and slow production ramp-ups in the switch to EVs – were being magnified as a problem thanks to a decrease in available … [Read more...]
AA moves into private car leasing
The AA is launching into the mobility market, beginning with existing members. Drivers can get on the road with a new inclusive personal car lease product in partnership with LeasePlan UK. Smart Lease offers unmatched transparency and certainty, allowing drivers to see the total cost of driving a vehicle over the course of the agreement. As long as the customer meets certain qualifying criteria … [Read more...]
Welsh premiums dip 10% for motorists
There’s good news for drivers in Wales - the average cost of car insurance has fallen by £68 about 10% year-on-year, according to Confused.com . That's due to the typical driver cutting miles by around 2,000 due to the lockdowns, reduced working and insurers recognising fewer claims coming in so costs have been slashed. Drivers in the region can now expect to pay an average of £644 for … [Read more...]
Breakdowns rising and worst places in Wales
Analysis of RAC data confirms suspicions that car use by drivers in the UK has not fallen to the same extent as it did during the first coronavirus lockdown in March 2020. During the first week of the latest lockdown, data from RAC Black Box Insurance customers shows there were on average 10% more cars in daily use than during the first week of March’s lockdown, leading to 31% more daily miles … [Read more...]
Driving habits that come with a hefty fine
Whether you’re new to the roads or you’ve had your driving licence for decades, there will no doubt be a few driving habits that really grind your gears. From drivers who hog the middle lane to those who don’t indicate when making a turn, these bad habits are not only frustrating but also extremely dangerous. Many motorists are unaware that some of the driving habits they’ve picked up are … [Read more...]
TVR begin Welsh factory preparations
TVR is pushing ahead with plans for its proposed car production plant near Ebbw Vale. Jones Brothers (Henllan) Ltd has been awarded the principal contract for a significant programme of works including replacement of the main building’s roof, the recladding of the building, extensive groundworks and also preparation of a prototype build area at the side of the intended main production area and … [Read more...]
Motorcycle sales see staggering return end of 2020
A decline of -2.6% in the motorcycle market in a year like 2020 when we faced so many challenges is hugely positive as dealers’ performance exceeded all expectations, said Paddy O’Connell, Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association, commenting on the latest MCIA’s figures.Despite the multiple challenges that faced businesses in 2020, the motorcycle market ended 2020 with a … [Read more...]
Driving in Europe post-Brexit
Britain's departure from the EU has prompted a flurry of information and advice from the Department for Transport, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and the DVLA on rule changes affecting Britons driving in Europe from this month, writes Dave Moss. Here we round up some important changes affecting British drivers and vehicles intending to use European roads in coming months, with links to … [Read more...]
