Unite union leaders and workers at Bridgend Engine Plant will be briefed about discussions with Ford over future investment. The union and car-maker had private meetings in London on Friday and details of the talks have not been given by either side. Afterwards, head of Unite Len McCluskey said, “Our concerns in relation to Ford’s commitment to its UK … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Ford Edge Sport 180
Ford expect to really cut it with the Edge. SUV sales are soaring and it’s the must-be sector for every manufacturer so Ford has topped its range of “active” models up to now led by the Kuga with a completely new range of larger cars. There are 11 Edge models on sale with in four trim levels using 180 or 210ps turbo-diesel engines, with a … [Read more...]
EV parts making is new opportunity for struggling car plants
Car-makers have an opportunity to save jobs and protect themselves against future technology threats if they fully embrace design and manufacture of electric vehicles and their parts. Unions at Daimler, the world's oldest mass car-maker, have been working with the company to manufacture more components in their own plants for the new generation of EVs … [Read more...]
20M engine is today made at Ford Bridgend plant
Ford Bridgend Engine Plant this afternoon built its 20-millionth engine, exactly 37 years after the first engine was built in September 1979. Linda Cash, vice president of Manufacturing, Ford of Europe joined Bridgend Engine Plant manager, Ian Pearson, in marking the achievement saying, “Bridgend has a proud record of high-quality engine production and … [Read more...]
Newslines 19 September
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is recalling 1.9 million vehicles worldwide for an airbag defect that is linked to three deaths and five injuries. The recall is to resolve a defect that may prevent deployment of airbags and seat-belt pretensioners in some crashes and covers models sold between 2010 and 2014, including the Chrysler Sebring, 200, Dodge Caliber, … [Read more...]
August new car sales surprise
The UK new car market achieved modest growth in August as registrations rose 3.3% against the same month last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. There were 81,640 new cars registered in the month, with year-to-date performance remaining positive, up 2.8% to 1.68 million units. The fleet sector drove the growth buoyed by … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: Ford EcoSport Titanium 1500TDCi 5sp
The expression “needs must” is something that Ford assiduously adhere to in their model range. They simply cannot afford to not be represented in a model sector, particularly if it’s a growing sector. So the Ford EcoSport MPV based on the Fiesta platform was really a forgone conclusion. It had to happen. Ford make good workmanlike MPVs in the … [Read more...]
Newslines 23 August
The basic Ford Fiesta has jumped from about £10,345 to £13,395 with Studio and Style models dropped from the range. It has been done to give Ford room to introduce the forthcoming Ka+ from under £9,000, but it could mean rival makers gain with dissatisfied Fiesta owners moving away from the brand to keenly priced alternatives. Renault is launching a … [Read more...]
Newslines 20 August
Admiral Insurance, which has offices in Cardiff, Newport and Swansea, said profits rose to £193m for the six months to 30 June. Its highest ever interim results represent a 4% rise in pre-tax profits. Road Safety professionals across Europe are counting down to the first Project EDWARD (European day Without A Road Death) on Wednesday 21 September … [Read more...]
Newslines 8 August
The Lamborghini Centenario will make its UK public debut at the leading luxury automotive event, Salon Privé, 1 to 3 September. The Lamborghini Centenario coupé has yet to be seen on UK soil, but will be on display during this spectacular three-day event at the renowned World Heritage site of Blenheim Palace. Produced in limited numbers, … [Read more...]
