As the world’s best-selling two-seater roadster enters its fourth decade on sale, Mazda UK has revealed the R-Sport special edition. Limited to just 150 examples, this stand-out MX-5 Convertible will feature free-of-charge Polymetal Grey metallic paint and a grey soft-top hood, while 16-inch RAYS gunmetal alloy wheels finish the unique exterior look of this special edition. The Polymetal … [Read more...]
Car makers outline plan for production return
As Europe is grappling with the health, social and economic impacts of COVID-19, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association has set out four guiding principles for a successful re-launch of the auto industry, which will be vital to the wider economic recovery of the continent. “It is in Europe’s interest that this key strategic sector not only recovers, but also is revitalised in … [Read more...]
Global collapse of van production to be felt for 2020
Global commercial vehicle production volumes in 2020 compared to 2019 are forecast to be down 22 percent , some 650,000 units to 2.6 million units, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the most recent analysis from IHS Markit. Individual regional forecasts are set to a downtrend, and supply chain impacts are being felt, as the consequences of the virus have shuttered … [Read more...]
Kia Kidwelly cares for community
Staff at Gravells Kia Kidwelly have been supporting the local community by delivering groceries to those vulnerable or self-isolating in the area. Charlotte Gravell, staff member and volunteer for the Community Action Group for Kidwelly and Mynydd-y-Garreg, has partnered with ‘Burns Parc y Bocs Farm Shop’ to allow those affected to place an order for their groceries over the phone. Gravells … [Read more...]
Lockdown legalities for fleets & users
The handing back of company car and van keys or fobs to employers in order to avoid benefit-in-kind taxation during the coronavirus lockdown needs careful management, the Association of Fleet Professionals has warned. There remained both pertinent questions for HMRC around the issue and a range of potential practical problems to resolve, explained co-chair Caroline Sandall. She said, “During … [Read more...]
Coronavirus hits over 1.4M vehicles
Over 1.4M new vehicles have been lost to production shutdowns across Europe as the Coronavirus develops. Factory shutdowns as a result of the COVID-19 crisis have resulted in lost production amounting to 1,465,415 said the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. This figure – covering passenger cars, trucks, vans, buses and coaches – is up from 1.2 million units compared to one week … [Read more...]
Guidance for garages seeking rates relief
The Independent Garage Association has released guidance for members on how they can appeal business rate relief from their local council. Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive said,“We have spoken with many garages throughout the escalation of the coronavirus pandemic, and access to this rate relief makes a difference to the length of time their business can survive with reduced or no income, … [Read more...]
Newslines 30 March
Buses have joined trains in Wales giving free transport to NHS staff during the coronavirus outbreak. It's all part of a £69M subsidy to public transport operators faced with decimation in demand by the public banned from travelling unless on essential journeys. The RAC has published a set of answers to questions being asked by drivers following the coronavirus outbreak. You can see the … [Read more...]
Newslines 27 March
MG is lending 100 ZS ev models to health authorities for six months. The vehicles will be used to perform a variety of roles and support services during the coronavirus epidemic in the UK. FAXI is a community based service to link those with transport and needs. Volunteer action groups globally can create private closed communities to help identify individuals who need help through the … [Read more...]
Aston Martin St Athan hit by virus fallout
Aston Martin Lagonda has suspended vehicle production at its plants in the UK, including at St Athan, home of its DBX crossover. The company, headquartered in Warwickshire, made the announcement today, and said the decision to halt production – for a scheduled four weeks – from tomorrow was in response to the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic. Aston Martin’s President and Group CEO, Dr Andy Palmer … [Read more...]