Google searches for “driving test change” have increased by 600% in the past week, following the launch of a major new Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency trial. GAP insurance provider, ALA Insurance, is welcoming the move - citing its potential to reduce accidents with claims involving newly qualified drivers. The DVSA has launched a three-month pilot at … [Read more...]
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Welsh driver defends WRC lead in Portugal
The FIA World Rally Championship heads to one of its most iconic stops this week as Vodafone Rally de Portugalwelcomes the world’s best drivers for round five of the 2025 season from today until Sunday. First held in 1973, Portugal is a founding event of the WRC and remains one of its most cherished. Fans flock to the famous gravel stages in their hundreds … [Read more...]
Minimum wage rise drives down dealer profits
More than half of dealers (52%) say the higher minimum wage introduced in April is having the biggest single effect on their profitability this year, new research shows. Other factors hitting margins mentioned in May’s Startline Used Car Tracker include more expensive stock (45%), premises costs (41%) and increased employer national insurance contributions … [Read more...]
Automotive world is at a cross-roads, says Europe’s car chief
In an industry so fundamentally globalised, it is no exaggeration to say that the automotive world is standing at a crossroads, says Sigrid de Vries, director general of Europe's car makers' body. Tariff tensions between Europe, the United States and China, supply chain disruptions, and intensifying competition are reshaping global dynamics.And it’s clear … [Read more...]
vRS versions complete new Skoda Enyaq family
Škoda Auto is presenting the top-of-the-range vRS versions to complete its new Enyaq family. The new Škoda Enyaq vRS and new Škoda Enyaq Coupé vRS are the Czech car manufacturer’s fastest accelerating production models, along with the new Elroq vRS. With two motors, a system output of 340 PS and all‑wheel drive, they accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 … [Read more...]
Quarter of motorists hate the hassle of garage jobs
One-in-four drivers (27%) see getting their vehicles repaired or serviced as a hassle with the time taken to drop off and pick up at garages their biggest complaint, according to new research from RAC Mobile Mechanics. Underlining just how time-poor so many of us are, the survey found drivers aged 17 to 34 and 35 to 44 are far more likely to view servicing … [Read more...]
Suzuki prepares to enter the pure electric age
This Autumn, as Suzuki gets ready to launch e Vitara (below), it’s very first electric vehicle, it’s well worth reflecting on where it all began for Suzuki Motor Corporation 70 years ago.Back in the Autumn of 1955, Michio Suzuki personally delivered a Suzulight, his very first production car to a local doctor who had previously been conducting his house … [Read more...]
FRF Toyota Wales is Britain’s best for the brand
Top accolades in the annual Toyota Best Retailer in Town awards have been won by FRF Group, named the Best Toyota Group for the second year running, and Steven Eagell Peterborough, winner of the Best Toyota Retailer title. With a 20-year history, FRF won the Best Toyota Group award for its focus on engaging and developing its teams to provide service that … [Read more...]
St Athan builds new flagship supercar
Aston Martin has a new DBX flagship, DBX S, assembled in St Athan. With the dynamic appeal of DBX707 and an engine enhanced by technology transferred directly from the forthcoming Valhalla supercar, DBX S offers one of the most engaging and responsive driving experiences delivering even more power, reduced weight and more assertive design. With a suite of … [Read more...]
Car makers call for help over smaller models
Europe's car makers want new rules created to favour small cars being manufactured as the industry struggles to sell more expensive bigger models. Renault CEO Luca de Meo and Stellantis chairman John Elkann have urged the European Union to implement more favourable rules for small cars as the declining profitability of these cars could lead to plant … [Read more...]
