Petrol prices are rising, but not quickly enough to encourage a big swing to electric cars, even used models. More than half of used dealers (52%) believe electric car prices and values could further worsen this year, according to the latest research. March’s Startline Used Car Tracker shows 49% say consumer demand isn’t high enough to support values, 42% … [Read more...]
Finance
The challenges facing UK’s fully automated roads
Highway engineers say the UK road network must be modernised and improved if it is to cope with Government plans for fully automated vehicles. The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation has called for a balanced and pragmatic approach to automated vehicle regulation that supports safety, sustainability and the effective operation of the UK’s … [Read more...]
Mid-Wales proving ground for military projects
A defence sector company has purchased Welsh Government land in Powys to develop and test new military equipment for defence clients. BANAIR has purchased two plots at Wyeside Enterprise Park, in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, and has started testing its own-design lightweight aluminium vehicle bridging system at the site. Spanning up to 30 metres, the … [Read more...]
Pothole puddles plague
The RAC fears near constant rain so far this year has led to a sudden spike in drivers being caught out by potholes hidden in puddles. Reports to the RAC from broken-down drivers about potholes in February averaged 225-a-day, nearly three-and-a-half times the 66-a-day seen in the same month last year and more than five times the 43-a-day … [Read more...]
Millions to get unfair selling compensation in 2026
Millons of motorists should learn by the end of this month how long they will have to wait for payouts and how much they will get under the FCA’s motor finance redress scheme. The financial body has also said it expects most successful claims to be paid by the end of this year but acknowledges some may run into next year. The FC intends to introduce an … [Read more...]
Car b&b rental considered by owners
Hard-up car owners would seriously consider renting out their car when they don't need it. March’s new Startline Used Car Tracker shows that 37% believe it is a good way to make money from their car when not in use, while 28% would trust the rental company to make relevant safety and security checks. Also, 18% say this kind of passive income is a useful … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Geely EX5 Max
If you think Geely is a new brand in Britain, think again. While it launched its first badged model, the Geely EX5, last year it has been quietly contemplating its place and plans for some years. Geely is deeply involved behind the scenes with our own Lotus sports car makers, and is providing the knowledge and expertise for Volvo and Smart electric … [Read more...]
Positive outlook for vehicle manufacturing in UK
January’s production figures outline the pressing challenges faced by UK vehicle manufacturing in 2026. Weaker export demand beyond Europe, and a sharp contraction in commercial vehicle production following major restructuring, have all impacted output. That said, the sector continues to depend on overseas markets – with more than three quarters of output … [Read more...]
Touchscreen controls are unsafe, say fleet operators
Cars with touchscreen controls are potentially more dangerous and fleets should consider removing from their choice lists on safety grounds, FleetCheck is warning. Touchscreen only systems have become more popular in recent years, particularly on BEV models, and this is distracting to drivers. The subject has been in the news this week with iPhone … [Read more...]
Privacy standard being worked on
An industry-wide initiative to strengthen data deletion practices in the used car and van sector is being backed by the Vehicle Remarketing Association. The new Data Deletion and Privacy Protection Certificate has been launched by the National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA) and developed with input from auction operators, compliance experts, and … [Read more...]
