Volkswagen unions have been told next year will be "difficult" and the business is likely to slim down its workforce in Europe. A slower than expected take up of electric vehicles, continuing high investment in new products and intense competition from European and Far Eastern car makers has been cited as the business faces a tough two years until its new ranges become established. The … [Read more...]
Driving automotive careers
Britain’s automotive industry is helping young people gain the life-changing advantages of car mobility thanks to a new pilot scheme that helps fund driving lessons for new apprentices in the sector. Drive to Thrive, launched today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Charitable Trust Fund in partnership with automotive charity Ben, is further evidence of industry's commitment to its … [Read more...]
Theory test questions fail experienced drivers
Less than 1% of UK drivers correctly answered a sample of current driving theory test questions posed to them. The research from ATS Euromaster of the 1,010 drivers tested, found shockingly only eight got all the answers correct. Some 45 to 54-year-olds, with up to 30 years of driving experience, were revealed to be the least knowledgeable drivers in the UK, averaging just 1 in 3 correct … [Read more...]
Newslines 1 September
Isuzu UK says renowned Welsh rugby player Shane Williams has once again chosen the Isuzu D-Max as his vehicle of choice, opting for the prestigious top-of-the-range V-Cross version for the seventh consecutive year. This exciting partnership highlights the shared values of toughness, reliability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence that both Isuzu and Shane Williams embody. Bentley Motors … [Read more...]
Brad & Ben beat all comers, now eye Europe
The UK’s leading independent road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, has partnered with IMechE Formula Student to find the best two British young drivers to represent their country, after a challenging qualifying experience at Thruxton Circuit. IAM RoadSmart member Bradley Cross (23) and Formula Student Ben Jude (21), won the UK heats of the FIA Best Young Driver competition and have now advanced to … [Read more...]
Call for skills feedback in garages
The Independent Garage Association is calling upon the automotive industry to provide their insights on apprenticeship opportunities within the sector. The feedback gathered will be important in lobbying for increased support and resources from government agencies to promote apprentice recruitment and training within the Automotive sector. A skilled workforce is undeniably the lifeblood of any … [Read more...]
New apprenticeship standard for fleet specialists
Experienced fleet managers are being sought by the Association of Fleet Professionals to help deliver a new apprenticeship standard for fleet specialists. Up to 20 individuals are required to form a “trailblazing” group to create an apprenticeship standard, working alongside the Institute for Apprenticeships. When the content is approved, they will be expected to recruit apprentices into their … [Read more...]
Passing problems and your driving test
Between April and June last year, over 630,000 car theory tests were conducted. With some areas of the country still experiencing a backlog for practical tests, passing your theory first time so that you can book your practical has never been more important. For learner drivers who have their theory test approaching, the experts at Bill Plant Driving School have shared 7 tips to help them … [Read more...]
Newslines 28 April
Skoda will launch six new pure electric models across its entire range by 2026. The VW Group member also plans to continue with petrol and PHEV models over the introduction period. Pembroke Dock (66.2%) and Aberystwyth (65.0%) have two of the highest pass rates for learners in Britain, says Aviva insurance. Latest figures from the DVSA show a national pass rate of 48.4% with a quarter of … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: GWM Funky Cat 1st Edition
The UK’s electric car revolution is becoming a bloody affair. From initially resisting the new technology on cost grounds including writing off established investments in petrol and diesel engine technology and having to develop hybrid or pure electric powertrains, along with making tens of thousands of workers redundant, manufacturers have struggled to convince buyers into showrooms or on-line … [Read more...]
