Maserati is back. The Autodromo Varano de’ Melegari was the setting for the track debut of the high-performance GT2, the car that epitomises the House of the Trident’s return to racing. The shakedown at the Parma circuit is the precursor to a series of events marking the run-up to the official unveiling of the car at the end of June in Belgium, at the 24 Hours of Spa. … [Read more...]
Retail News
Leasing companies accused of overcharging ev customers
Leasing deals for battery electric vehicles are being overpriced, new analysis by T&E of the used car market finds. In the UK, leasing offers for BEVs are on average 51% more expensive than their equivalent petrol model. Leasing an electric VW ID.3 costs approximately £605 a month, whilst the petrol Golf is offered at £376. In the UK, battery electric cars have the same resale value as … [Read more...]
Addressing the gender divide in automotive industry
International Women’s Day presents the perfect opportunity to address one of the key imperfections of the automotive industry, the gender divide, said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association on International Women’s Day 8 March. "Whilst there is a stark difference in numbers between male and female employees in the automotive industry, NFDA strives to connect … [Read more...]
More drivers missing vehicle tax payments
There has been a worrying increase in the number of drivers having their vehicle tax Direct Debits cancelled by DVLA after payments couldn’t be taken due to a lack of funds, figures analysed by the RAC show following a Freedom of Information request. Almost one million drivers (950,377) had their Direct Debits cancelled in the financial year 2021-22, an increase of 9% on the 862,529 on 2020-21. … [Read more...]
Drivers want dash-cams as standard to cut premiums
A recent report from Go.Compare Car Insurance has found that nearly all dash cam owners believe the device should be installed as standard in new vehicles. Currently, only 18% of motorists have a dash cam fitted in their car. The insurance comparison site’s poll found that the majority (91%) of dash cam owners believe they should be a standard piece of safety equipment, much like seatbelts … [Read more...]
New car sales shrug off winter chill
Improving supply components and completed cars has seen another rise in registrations in February, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Sales in Wales rose the most in Britain with a 29.6% increase to 2,370 new cars. SMMT datum show 74,441 cars were registered last month – a 26.2 per cent rise on February 2022’s lower numbers but it was was down by just 6.5 per cent on … [Read more...]
Newcomers 6 March
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles announces new trim level, California Surf, to the Transporter 6.1 model range, with prices starting from £68,234. Adding to the existing California range – consisting of Beach Tour, Beach Camper and Ocean – the new California 6.1 Surf sits between the Beach Tour and Ocean. It is equipped with essentials that make camping trips with the family easy and … [Read more...]
Government changes will affect safety, says transport group
This week's announcement of a consultation on proposed Driver Certificate of Professional Competence reforms from the Department for Transport raises serious safety concerns and devalues the professionalism of the road haulage sector. That's the opinion of business group, Logistics UK. Chris Yarsley, Senior Policy Manager – Road Freight Regulation at Logistics UK, who went on to say, “Logistics … [Read more...]
Italian classics remastered for today’s enthusiasts
The Real Italian Car Company is turning back the clock with beautifully-restored bespoke examples of the classic Fiat 500 destined for new homes all around the world. The Fiat 500 is an icon of Italy, as well as being the most affordable and engaging way to enter the world of Italian classic car ownership. With easy maintenance and ultra-low running costs, the ‘Cinquino’ is an appreciating asset … [Read more...]
Newslines 3 March
Owners of the latest Kia models can now benefit from the latest infotainment features more quickly and easily, thanks to new over-the-air functionality. Available for all Kia models equipped with Kia Connect from MY22 onwards, OTA capability ensures the customer’s satellite navigation unit can wirelessly receive map and related software updates. Bus services will see a £150M support scheme from … [Read more...]