A campaign launched today calls on all drivers to sharpen up their act by getting their eyesight tested every two years to ensure their vision meets legal standards and they aren't putting people in danger. 

The campaign by road safety charity Brake, working alongside the DVLA, insurer RSA and Specsavers, comes as research shows many drivers are failing to ensure they can see properly on every journey.

A survey of 1,000 drivers out today by Brake, RSA and Specsavers finds that a quarter of drivers (26%) haven't had a vision test in the last two years. A worrying one in 11 (9%) admit not visiting the optician for five years or more, or never: for 3% it's been more than a decade and 3% (the equivalent to more than one million UK drivers) have never been.

At the same time, many drivers who know they need glasses or lenses fail to wear them on every journey. Nearly one in 10 (9%) who need glasses or lenses don't always wear them when driving. Furthermore, of those who claimed they don't need glasses or lenses, one in three (32%) haven't had their eyes checked in the last two years, so can't be certain their vision is up to scratch.

Research shows that failing to ensure your vision is good enough to drive is estimated to result in 2,900 road casualties a year, causing trauma and devastation to many victims [1].

To raise awareness among drivers about their responsibilities, the DVLA is today launching an online education campaign. 

Read about Brake's sharpen up campaign, supported by RSA and Specsavers.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Mladá Boleslav, 1 August 2013 - ŠKODA dedicated the first half of the year to the model offensive, including launching the new ŠKODA Octavia and ŠKODA Superb facelift. Despite the new start of production and correspondingly low production volumes, ŠKODA achieved a sales revenue of almost five billion Euros in the first six months of the current fiscal year. Operating profit stood at 243 million Euros as of 30^th June. 464,600 vehicles were sold, 5.8% down on the first half of 2012. Additionally, the weak development in some European automotive markets affected the company's sales and financial figures.

"The ŠKODA growth offensive moves into the next stage with the new ŠKODA Octavia and the facelifted Superb," explains ŠKODA CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. He continues, "With a total of eight new or facelifted models this year, we are on the right track. On the year as a whole, we are expecting once again to surpass the previous year's sales figures." The sales figures in June were slightly higher than in the same month in 2012, making June 2013 the best sales June in the company's history. "We do however still expect some further market uncertainty," says Vahland.

The Czech car manufacturer's sales revenue in the first half of 2013 stood at 4.97 billion Euros, 13.1% down on the same six months of 2012 (5.72 billion Euros). The operating profit reached 243 million Euros in the same period, 45.9% down compared to Jan-June of last year (449 million Euros). As a part of the current ŠKODA model offensive, investments rose by 22.1% on the same period last year to 265 million Euros (first half of 2012: 217 million Euros).

"ŠKODA has achieved solid results in the first half of 2013, especially in the challenging European environment," says ŠKODA CFO Winfried Krause. He continues, "In the second half of the year, we plan to expand through the new models. We have also initiated stringent cost control measures in all areas."

In the UK, ŠKODA enjoyed the most successful six months in its history with more than 32,000 registrations. ŠKODA UK Brand Director, Alasdair Stewart, comments on the record, "These figures show how strong ŠKODA is in the UK. It is a testament to the engineering excellence of our products and the recognised customer service from our retailer network. We're delighted with these figures and we aim to continue the feat in the second half of 2013. The ŠKODA range keeps on growing, we have some very product launches coming soon and we can't wait to show them to our customers."

ŠKODA AUTO Group - Operating figures in the first halves of 2013/2012

-Ends- 

Editors' notes:

ŠKODA UK

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Milton Keynes, Thursday 01 August - Family-owned retail group, Sandicliffe has acquired two East Midlands-based Farmers ŠKODA retailers.  The re-named Sandicliffe ŠKODA retailers will begin operating from this week.

Based at the same premises on Groby Road in Leicester and Mansfield Road in Nottingham, with an unchanged team of experienced sales and service advisors, Sandicliffe ŠKODA customers will continue to receive a high level of service, expertise and product knowledge.

Alasdair Stewart, Brand Director for ŠKODA UK, comments: "We are pleased to welcome the Sandicliffe franchise to our already impressive network of over 130 authorised ŠKODA retailers. With the recent launch of the critically acclaimed all-new Octavia vRS, and a record-breaking first six months of sales for our retailers,  demand for our award-winning range is at an all-time high.  I'm sure that Sandicliffe will maintain the excellent ŠKODA renowned customer service."

Steve Averill, who takes on the role of Retailer Principal at Sandicliffe ŠKODA Leicester, comments: "My team and I are absolutely delighted to be joining forces with Sandicliffe.  We look forward to benefiting from their  extensive knowledge and experience, particularly within the fleet market.

"We've experienced an unprecedented number of product enquiries over the last 12 months, so there is certainly a huge demand for the ŠKODA range in the East Midlands and we look forward to continued success in the area as Sandicliffe ŠKODA."

Paul Farmer, who founded the Farmers business in 1994, is retiring on completion of the acquisition.

Alasdair adds: "We'd like to thank Paul and all the team at Farmers for over 19 years of exemplary service to the ŠKODA brand. I know that Paul will join me in wishing Sandicliffe ŠKODA continued success in the years ahead."

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Paul Willcox has been appointed Managing Director of Volkswagen Group (UK) Limited, taking over from Simon Thomas who leaves the UK on 1 September 2013 to take up a global marketing role.

Milton Keynes, 1 August 2013: Willcox, 49, joins the business on 16 September from Nissan, where he has held the role of Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing for Europe since June 2011.  He has worked in the motor industry for a number of years, having started his career, following graduation with a degree in Management Sciences, at Peugeot GB.

He joined Nissan Motor Company GB in 1992 and has held numerous management positions in sales and marketing, including Manager Corporate Planning, General Manager Marketing Strategy and Pricing, and Marketing Director Nissan GB.  He was appointed Vice President Marketing for Nissan Europe in 2005 before returning to Nissan Motors Great Britain as Managing Director in 2008.

Willcox will be based at Volkswagen Group UK's headquarters in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, from where he will be responsible for the Group's five UK brands - Volkswagen Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles, Audi, SEAT and ŠKODA - and their associated functions.

Simon Thomas, who has been with the Volkswagen Group since September 2011, will take up the role of Global Head of Marketing for the Volkswagen Group and the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand at the company's headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany, reporting to the Board Member for Sales and Marketing for the Volkswagen Group and the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, Christian Klingler.  Thomas succeeds Jürgen Stackmann, who became Chairman of SEAT S.A. on 1 May 2013.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

It seems like only yesterday I was at the 2013 CV Show, but as the holiday season gets under way we are already planning next year's event - which has seen healthy interest from a broad range of exhibitor companies booking their space early.

Transport Minister Norman Baker has today announced £25 million of capital funding to enable the construction of demonstration-scale waste to fuel and other advanced biofuel plants in the UK.

The money will be used to underpin significant private sector investment in one or more demonstration-scale advanced biofuel plants in order to drive the development of the UK's biofuel industry.

Advanced biofuels are made from materials, for example municipal waste and forestry residues, using complex processing techniques. They can produce a wide range of transport fuels including replacements for those used in road transport and aviation.

Transport Minister Norman Baker said:

"I am delighted that we are able to support these innovative technologies and believe that they will bring significant benefits to the UK. There are real opportunities for the UK to take a technological lead, driving growth, creating highly skilled jobs and seeing energy, security and environmental benefits.

"It is clear that in the long term advanced biofuels will be important in areas that we cannot otherwise decarbonise, such as aviation. This announcement will help put the UK in a good position to meet this demand."

Energy and Climate Change Secretary Edward Davey said: 

"Advanced biofuels have the potential to make a sustainable contribution to our 2020 renewable energy targets, as well as to our longer term decarbonisation targets.

"There is significant potential for growth in biofuel use, in low carbon vehicles and other sectors, if advanced technologies are harnessed. 

"This funding will give the industry the boost it needs to develop this innovative, low carbon market." 

The funding will be provided over three years from 2015 following a competition to identify the best and most suitable industry proposals. 

The Department for Transport will commission a feasibility study to report on the detailed design of the proposed competition including eligibility criteria and funding scheme options, as well as ensuring the project complies with EU State aid rules. 

Further details on the competition, including the feasibility study, will be provided in the autumn alongside a range of potential measures to support the most sustainable fuels and spur further innovation in this sector.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Responding to the announcement today by HM Treasury of plans to extend the island fuel rebate to remote inland areas, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) has said that the 5p per litre fuel duty cut should apply across the whole of the UK.

Petrol retailers and customers in 35 counties have been asked by the Treasury to provide details of prices they charge for petrol and diesel as the government prepares to seek permission from the European Commission (EC) to extend the island fuel rebate scheme.

The fuel duty discount pilot scheme for remote island communities was introduced in March 2012, and applied to the Inner and Outer Hebrides, the Northern Isles, the islands in the Clyde and the Isles of Scilly.

Whilst FTA has said it is pleased about how the proposed fuel duty cut would help stimulate growth in the rural economy, it is calling on government to make the duty cut across the UK.  The Association said that the reduction should not only be applied to rural drivers but must be implemented across the whole of the country.

James Hookham, FTA Director of Policy and Communications commented:

"Today's announcement by the Treasury is clear recognition that the government accepts the need for a cut in fuel duty.  The proposed ‘rural' 5p per litre cut will obviously help the UK's rural economy, but FTA strongly believes that this should not be introduced purely in rural areas but insists it should be applied across the country. If 5p a litre cut will stimulate the growth in rural areas, just think what it could do if applied across the country"

"FTA has long campaigned for a cut in fuel duty as a way help encourage growth in the economy.  We know from our members that spiralling fuel costs are bad for businesses, hauliers and road users, and can have a devastating impact on haulage businesses, their customers and ultimately everyone through the prices on the shelves."

FTA backs the FairFuelUK campaign which has been spurred forward by the logistics industry, and since it was formed in 2011 has helped to secure a better deal for Britain's hauliers and motorists.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has made renewed calls for the drink-drive limit to be lowered as latest figures show a rise in the number of people killed in alcohol-related accidents.

As a proportion of all reported road fatalities, the number of drink-drive deaths was 17 per cent in 2012, compared to 12 per cent in 2011.

As the UK's leading accident prevention charity, RoSPA also believes that the police should have increased powers to require a breath test without needing any other reason. Under the current system, the police can stop any driver for any reason, but they cannot require a breath test without a suspicion that the driver has consumed alcohol, or has committed a traffic offence or been involved in an accident.

Kevin Clinton, RoSPA's head of road safety, said: "The increase in drink-drive deaths in 2012 is very disturbing. The figures show that the problem of drinking and driving has not been solved, with tens of thousands of people being convicted of drink driving, hundreds losing their lives and thousands being injured every year. Often it is an innocent person who suffers, not just the driver who was over the drink-drive limit.

"A lower drink-drive limit would save many lives each year, while effective enforcement of the drink drive law is essential, and should be high profile and highly visible in order to enhance its effect as a deterrent. Drivers should realise that if they choose to drink and drive there is a strong chance that they will be detected and prosecuted and that the penalties will be severe.

"Today's figures are provisional and the final ones may be different. The provisional figure for 2011 was 280 drink-drive deaths, but the final figure was 230. So, it is possible that the actual figure for 2012 will be lower than the 290 deaths reported today.

"But, even if the final figures are lower than the provisional ones, continued education and enforcement campaigns are needed to keep pressing home the Don't Drink and Drive message."

Latest provisional figures for 2012 also showed a five per cent decrease in seriously injured drink-drive casualties to around 1,200, which accounts for five per cent of all seriously injured road casualties. The report also suggested that the highest risk of death from driving whilst over the drink-drive limit was to the driver.

The North Review of Drink and Drug Driving Law, in 2010, recommended that the limit be lowered and concluded that the change "would undoubtedly save a significant number of lives". It estimated that in the first year after implementation, between 43 and 168 lives could be saved, along with a larger number of those seriously injured. The impact of any lowering in the blood alcohol limit is then predicted to increase to save up to 303 lives a year by the sixth year.

For more advice and information, visit RoSPA's drinking and driving webpage

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Car manufacturer connects with consumers in sponsorship deal with Microsoft Advertising

Microsoft today (30^th July, 2013) announces the launch of MSN Innovation - an editorial channel on MSN built in conjunction with sponsor, Nissan Motor GB Limited. Designed to showcase innovation across all walks of life, the dedicated content complements Nissan's ethos of ‘Innovation that Excites' and is tailored to appeal to not only the brand's target audience, but also anyone that is passionate about all things innovative.

Supported with display advertising throughout MSN, the twelve month deal between Microsoft Advertising and Nissan was brokered by Manning Gottlieb OMD, with Nissan content from TBWA and digital assets from DNA. The channel content created by MSN's award-winning editorial team aims to inspire and engage readers with a passion for innovation, whilst weaving in content that reflects Nissan's dedication to ‘Innovation that Excites' in every product design, ownership experience, and piece of communication. The car manufacturer's products showcased throughout MSN Innovation include the 100% electric LEAF, Juke n-tec, new Note, Qashqai, NISMO, GT-R and GT Academy.

With a dedicated MSN Editor to commission original content and maintain quality, the editorial will focus on five specific categories - ‘design', ‘planet', ‘personal' and ‘tomorrow', with a fifth pillar dedicated to deliver Nissan's unique viewpoint on Innovation both inside and outside the automotive sector. Articles already in the pipeline include features exploring the developments of eco-friendly home innovation and space tourism. With Nissan's involvement as Partners of the British Olympic Association & Paralympic Association, and automotive partner of The O2, there will also be a variety of ways to gain access to unique content, promotions and bespoke experiences across sports, entertainment and automotive.

The sponsorship will provide Nissan with exposure to a guaranteed audience on MSN each month. Available across mobile, PC and tablet, the Innovation channel will also be promoted via MSN's Homepage, Facebook and Twitter pages to drive audience interaction.

James Hayr, Head of Solutions at Microsoft Advertising, says: "Our belief is that great advertising revolves around great storytelling. New channels such as MSN Innovation are proof of Microsoft Advertising's commitment to providing valuable experiences that benefit advertisers, publishers and consumers.

"MSN Innovation enables Nissan to tell its brand story in a new, credible way that integrates original, engaging content to create a unique experience. This campaign forms part of our long-term strategy to launch further bespoke channels in partnership with leading brands, pushing the boundaries of what is possible creatively."

Dominic Eames, Editor-in-Chief of MSN UK, says: "I'm really pleased to launch MSN Innovation.  It builds on our existing MSN Food channel as an example of how content and brands can come together which deliver commercial messages as well as a really strong editorial experience.  Using MSN's assets and audience, we're able to create interesting and engaging stories that really extend MSN UK's existing offering."

Guillaume Masurel, Nissan UK Marketing Director, says: "As part of our continuing commitment to deliver innovation and excitement in everything we do and communicate, we see the launch of the Innovation Channel with Microsoft as a great platform to continually engage consumers in the UK with unique and varied content, and the variety of exciting projects that Nissan have coming up in 2013 and beyond."

Glenn Burchnall, Account Director at Manning Gottlieb OMD, says: "With their heritage in innovation, technology, research and development - Nissan and Microsoft are a great match. Working with Microsoft will enable us to amplify Nissan's rich innovation story to a mass, engaged audience and continue our commitment to providing innovative comms platforms on behalf of the Nissan client in the UK."

Visit MSN Innovation at www.msn.co.uk/innovation.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Volkswagen is offering free insurance* on a number of its popular retail models until the end of September, giving customers even greater value for money. 

One year's free insurance is available to retail customers** purchasing most up!, Polo, Beetle and Beetle Cabriolet models on Volkswagen Financial Services' Solutions (PCP) package over three years and 30,000 miles.

Certain exclusions apply, for example, all owners must be over 21 while free insurance for higher-powered models is restricted to those over 25.  All details and terms and conditions are available to view on the following websites:

www.insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/up, www.insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/beetle and www.insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/polo.

In addition, all vehicles purchased on Solutions are available with a three year or 30,000 mile (whichever comes first) Service Plan for just £199. 

Combine these with attractive finance packages, high standard specification across the range, low insurance groups and frugal advanced engines, and you have further proof of Volkswagen's ‘Unbelievable value'.

For details on all these cars and special offers, please visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.

* Terms and conditions apply.  Please visit www.volkswagen.co.uk for full details or one of the following sites: www.insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/up,www.insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/beetle and www.insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/polo.

** Free insurance is not available in Northern Ireland, however customers in this area will receive a deposit contribution in lieu.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

The BVRLA has launched its dynamic new website which uses a news-led format to give users quick and convenient access to advice and information about the association and the vehicle rental and leasing industry.

The site takes advantage of some of the latest web trends and technology to keep members informed of the BVRLA's latest industry guidance, events and services, as well as developments in its campaigning and consulting with government. Employees will be able to register for their own individual login that will give them access to a range of member-only fact sheets, publications and events.

The new www.bvrla.co.uk site has lots of advice for rental and leasing customers, including a member directory, guidance on the association's fair wear and tear standard, why they should pick a BVRLA member and how to access its conciliation service.

Users should find a massive improvement in accessibility, with the new site optimised for multiple web browsers and a range of desktop, laptop, tablet and mobile devices.

"This energetic and modern website reflects the association's breadth of expertise, the activities it undertakes and the services it offers," said Chief Executive Gerry Keaney.

"We have worked hard to create a site that is easy to navigate, has a consistent look and feel and that is totally focussed on the needs of our members and their customers."

The new BVRLA site was developed with the help of web developers Boffin Lab and design agency Howell Penny.

About the BVRLA

The BVRLA is the UK trade body for companies engaged in the rental and leasing of cars and commercial vehicles. Its members provide short-term rental, contract hire and fleet management services to corporate users and consumers. They operate a combined fleet of around 2.75 million cars, vans and trucks, buying nearly half of all new vehicles sold in the UK. Through its members and their customers, the BVRLA represents the interests of more than two million business car drivers and the millions of people who use a rental vehicle each year. As well as lobbying the government on key issues affecting the sector, the BVRLA regulates its members through a mandatory code of conduct.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Road safety charity the IAM is offering weekly motoring tips from Britain's top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. 

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: "Usually, the best advice about driving to a festival is, quite simply, don't - the drive there will involve a lot of waiting, it's likely you'll struggle to find a parking space, and even the least forgetful of partygoers risks losing their car keys. But if you decide that driving works best for you, there are steps you can take to ensure you get there and back in one piece.

"Prepare yourself and your vehicle, and then you'll be able to do what you're going for - enjoy your festival weekender."

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Subaru UK's dealer network has again scored highly in the 2013 Auto Express Driver Power survey, further improving its ranking in the influential annual survey of 46,000 UK motorists' satisfaction in their cars and dealerships.

The results were published in the July 31 issue of the popular weekly motoring magazine.

The 50-strong Subaru dealer network rose from an already creditable eighth place in 2012, up to second in 2013, beating all of its nearest rivals for motorists' trust in their dealers, and only losing out on the top-spot to luxury car brand Lexus.

Motorists taking part in the survey rated Subaru dealers in particular for ‘helpfulness and attitude', ‘standard of workmanship', ‘value for money' and ‘technical knowledge'.

Overall, 89.28 per cent of Subaru owners were satisfied in their dealer, with one reader explaining that their local dealer was "very courteous, always helpful and keenly priced."  In Driver Power survey results published earlier in the year, Auto Express listed both the Subaru Legacy and Subaru Forester  in the top 100 most satisfying cars to own according to British motorists.

Steve Fowler, Editor-in-chief of Auto Express commented:  "When it comes to keeping customers satisfied, Subaru dealers certainly know what's important. They may not have the flashy premises of some rivals, but it's relationships that matter and Subaru customers really value theirs with their dealers."

Paul Tunnicliffe, Managing Director of Subaru UK, said of the result: "This result - our highest ever in the Driver Power survey - is testament to the considerable time we've invested on assessing the performance of dealers in after sales care.  We survey every service customer in real time, and so are able to jump on problems before they become an issue.  This result proves the effectiveness of this programme.

"In addition we don't focus on having expensive, fancy premises to enhance the customer experience; for us its about good technical knowledge and developing relationships with our customers.  A second-place ranking puts our dealers well ahead of many of the prestige car makers and all of the mainstream ones and is proof that the brand holds customer satisfaction close to its heart."

Every Subaru model is sold with a five-year, 100,000-mile warranty and a 12-year manufacturer anti-corrosion warranty as standard, while all vehicles come equipped with a choice of efficient petrol and diesel Boxer engines and benefit from Subaru's enviable record for build quality and durability.

To find out more about the Subaru model range, visit www.subaru.co.uk.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

The UK's leading vehicle history check expert, HPI, is warning used car buyers to be on their guard against stolen log books (V5) after receiving a spate of consumer calls expressing concern over recent purchases

Criminals are using these documents to accompany stolen vehicles that have had their identity changed to match that of a legitimate vehicle.  The practice, otherwise known as cloning, is costing car buyers tens of thousands of pounds, says HPI. 

Although the theft of 130,000 blank registration forms from the DVLA happened back in 2006, they remain very much in circulation today and are catching out unsuspecting car buyers. HPI is in the unique position of including a stolen V5 document check as standard within its HPI Check, confirming the V5 registration document is not one of the batch the DVLA confirmed as stolen. HPI is also the only provenance check provider to provide clone cover up to the value of £40,000* with their vehicle check.  

"Despite ongoing warnings of the threat of car cloning, buyers remain at risk,"  explains Daniel Burgess, Managing Director for HPI.  "Criminals continue to make millions by cloning cars using the blank registration forms stolen from the DVLA and selling these vehicles on to members of the public, who then lose both their new motor and their money when their vehicles are confiscated by the police."

The stolen certificates have a different background colour on the Notification of Permanent Export (V5C/4) tear off slip on the second page, which looks mauve on the front and pink on the reverse.  On legitimate documents they should be mauve on both sides.  But says Daniel Burgess, there are other measures that car buyers can follow to help them avoid buying a clone. 

One - Location: If you're buying privately, make sure you view it at the registered keeper's address (as shown on the V5/logbook).

Two - Provenance:  Always check the history of the car. One vital check the buyer can do is to find all the VIN/chassis numbers on the vehicle to make sure they match each other, and then use the HPI Check to ensure they tally with the registration number of the vehicle.

Three - Documents: Check the vehicle's V5/logbook. Stolen V5 documents are currently being used to accompany cloned vehicles but the HPI Check includes a unique stolen V5 document check as standard.  This will confirm whether or not the document is one that the DVLA have recorded as stolen. The vehicle should also be accompanied by a service history and MOT certificates if the vehicle is over 3 years old - make sure you see these too.

Four - Price:  Know the car's market value. No genuine seller will want to lose money on their sale. If you are paying more than 30% below the retail market value, then be on your guard.

Five - Payment:  Don't pay with a substantial amount of cash, particularly if the car is costing you more than £3,000. Some cloners will take a bankers draft as part payment, because the cash part is sufficient profit without ever cashing the bankers draft. Most crooks selling cloned cars would rather walk away from a sale than take a payment that could be traced back to them. Despite strong advice to buyers to pay via the banking system, HPI still hear of many buyers who go on to pay in cash and subsequently find out that the car is a clone, and that they've lost both their money and the vehicle. HPI plays an active role in working with ACPO's Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service to help solve vehicle crime, and is the only vehicle provenance check provider to include clone cover within its guarantee⁽³⁾. If the buyer follows HPI's buying advice, this can provide up to £40,000 financial reimbursement in the event of the car not being everything it seems - including a clone.  

Concludes Daniel Burgess: "It is essential that HPI, the police and the general public work together to squeeze out fraudsters.   As time has taught us, we can't stop stolen V5s from circulating but we can stop the criminals from profiteering from them by simply using the tools that are at hand to check, check and double check if documents are legitimate." 

For further information visit www.hpicheck.com or call 0845 300 8905

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

The latest Department for Transport road casualty statistics released today show a welcomed decrease in casualties for vulnerable road users.

IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig said: "It would seem to be good news with continued sustained falls in car occupant casualties and falls in all vulnerable categories for example pedestrians, bikers and cyclists."

"It is clear that the continued economic downturn (with falling traffic levels) and poor weather are the main causes.  The economy is showing signs of improvement and we are having a fantastic summer so we cannot be complacent."   

"The IAM welcomse this good news for the start of 2013 but the real test will come when we see what happened over the spring and summer when cycling in particular will have been much more popular."

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

The Road Haulage Association, while welcoming the news that the Treasury is to call for evidence to support its scheme to reduce fuel duty in remote regions of the UK, finds the definition of ‘remote' somewhat confusing.

The RHA, together with the Scottish National Party lobbied strongly for a reduction in fuel duty as a sure-fire method of boosting the economy, and the fuel duty discount pilot scheme for remote island communities began in March 2012. This applies to the Inner and Outer Hebrides, the Northern Isles, the islands in the Clyde and the Isles of Scilly.
 
Commenting, RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning said: "We have reviewed the list of counties and districts that are under consideration for a duty reduction and find it bizarre that, for instance, while Devon is considered to be remote, Cornwall is not. Similarly, while the Isle of Anglesey is considered remote, the Isle of Man is not.
 
"In 2011/2012, the total tax take from UK road users amounted to £58 billion pounds. Of that, over £36 billion is from fuel duty and VAT on fuel.  Surely if, as already stated, these proposed rebates are to help boost the economy, there can be little excuse not to reduce fuel duty across the board.
 
"A 5 pence per litre cut in fuel duty would equate to a £2,000 per annum reduction for a road haulier operating a typical 44tonne articulated truck.  The long term knock on effects of this would far outweigh any temporary Treasury loss and would ensure the financial stability the economy so desperately needs."

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

MG today made the surprise announcement that prices for the eagerly anticipated MG3 supermini will not start at £9,999, but will finish at this price, with the whole model range available for £9,999. And this is not the only surprise announcement about the affordability of the stylish new small MG.

Possibly even bigger news, especially for young drivers, is that you will be able to enjoy driving an MG3 with its sporty 106PS engine and chassis dynamics for a class leading predicted insurance group rating of just 4E*. This is less than half the rating of equivalent competitor products!

And MG3 prices have not been achieved at the expense of specification, practicality or safety. All models benefit from signature front LED lights, electronic hill hold as standard, with all but the entry model featuring a high quality DAB audio system. The sporty exterior style conceals an interior that offers one of the largest and most spacious cabins in the supermini class. With six airbags, electronic stability control, corner brake control and traction control, there is the full suite of the latest technology safety equipment standard on all MG3s.

However, the key attraction for many people will be how much fun you can have creating your own MG3, with its huge range of colours, exterior graphics, interior colour packs and leather upholstery created by the UK design team and inspired by the British fashion industry.

There are four models of MG3 to choose from and a full range of options and accessories priced as keenly as the car itself, to ensure that specifying and buying an MG3 is as much fun as owning and driving it.

At the top of the range is the MG3 3STYLE with premium 16" "Diamond" alloy wheel and a sports body styling pack that includes the rear boot spoiler and side sill extensions.  Standard high-tech convenience features include cruise control, automatic lights and windscreen wipers and reverse parking sensors, all for only £9,999.

The mid-range MG3 3FORM available for £9,299 includes air conditioning, DAB radio,  Bluetooth and audio streaming,  leather MG-design steering wheel with red stitching and steering wheel audio controls all as standard, above the entry model specification.

For those customers who want top of the range looks but find the high level of equipment in a 3FORM is enough, then there is the MG3 3FORM SPORT.  This includes all the features of the mid-range 3FORM with the sports body styling pack and 16" "Carousel" alloy wheels at £9,549.

The entry model MG3 3TIME costs £8,399 and features a CD player with MP3 compatibility and Aux-in facility in addition to all the standard features on all MG3s.

All models are powered by a sporty 106PS petrol engine with a five speed manual gearbox and have the same great MG chassis designed to make driving the MG3 a bit more fun than your average small car.

Sales & Marketing Director Guy Jones said; "The MG3 gives the market something really new; a stylish, highly practical, small car with many options for personalisation that is fun to drive, fun to buy and fun to own. With all models in the range priced below £10,000 and insurance expected to be just 4E, we can offer this type of product at a price position that no competitor can match.

"MG became world famous for building distinctive, British, small, fun cars at a remarkably affordable price that owners then personalised to their own individual style.  The MG3 is the new small, modern MG that allows a new generation of people to have fun with their MG"

Available in dealerships from September 2013, the MG3 is already generating huge levels of interest.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

Lexus has launched its second Design Award, aiming to build on the success of its inaugural competition which attracted more than 1,300 submissions from more than 70 countries.

It hopes for an even stronger response this year, inviting entries on the theme Curiosity.

The Lexus Design Award is an international competition targeting designers from a wide range of creative fields such as architecture, fine art, fashion and product design. Through this initiative, Lexus aims to support and nurture creativity in the next generation of designers around the world.

This year's theme reflects the importance Lexus places on considering not just the quality of its designs, but the impact they will make. It believes that adding an element of curiosity to the creative process can help produce products that are more exciting, innovative and engaging for customers.

A jury of six experts will select the 12 award winners, whose work will go on public display in the Lexus Design Amazing presentation at the 2014 Milan Design Week next April. From these 12, two overall winners will be given five million yen (about £33,500) to develop their proposals into prototypes, supported by two professional mentors: architect and engineer Arthur Huang, and game designer Robert Hunicke.

The closing date for entries is 15 October. Applications must be made using the dedicated page on the designboom website, www.designboom.com/competition/lexus-design-award-2014.

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA

One of the most environmentally-friendly vehicle dealerships in the UK has opened for business this week, selling and servicing all Fiat Group Automobiles products under one rain-catching roof.

The roof is just one of a raft of green, money-saving features that have been designed into the new two-acre T H White site in Hillmead, Swindon. The rain-water harvesting system provides water for car washing and toilet flushing. Even used water from the valeting bays is recycled.

Waste engine oil is stored and used to heat the building while solar panels on the front and roof of the showroom also provide energy for heat and light - with low voltage LED bulbs.

It's all part of a plan to reduce the size of the carbon footprint of the huge Fiat Brand Centre, which plans to sell more than 1,000 Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Chrysler, Abarth and Fiat Professional vehicles all out of one site.

"Big showroom but small footprint," says Peter James, dealer principal, T H White Swindon. "We have worked hard to make the site as environmentally-friendly as possible and even joined up with the local residents' association to ensure the development fitted in with its forestry surroundings.

"We extensively re-planted the area with trees and shrubs and laid boulders along the front aspect. It's a very eco-friendly site - even our fences are made of recycled plastic."

More than 25 staff have started work at the development, which opened this week (29 July). The vast showroom is divided into separate sections for each of the FGA marques, with distinct branding, decoration and furniture featured in each area.

"We are delighted that T H White has developed this superb new site," says Tim Head, dealer development director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. "It's a remarkable building with excellent fuel, water and energy saving features. It certainly paves the way for vehicle showrooms of the future."

DATED; 02.08.13

FEED: HA

New BCA research reveals that more than 1 in 5 motorists have ignored red warning lights on their car dashboard

www.bca.co.uk

Research* from the leading vehicle remarketing company, British Car Auctions (BCA), reveals that 23% of motorists have ignored red warning lights on their dashboard, choosing to continue driving before addressing the problem rather than stopping as soon as safe to do so.  And whilst over half said they would stop immediately and call for assistance a small minority (5.5%) said they would deal with it when they had time with some hoping it might just go off of its own accord!

When it comes to amber advisory warnings, 36% of motorists who responded to the BCA research said they had ignored amber advisory dashboard warnings and did not respond to them with any urgency. Over half (59%) of those polled would continue on to their destination if an advisory light appeared and then address the problem. 

According to BCA's latest research, it's not just warning lights motorists are ignoring as a third (35%) of survey respondents said if a ‘service due' message came up on their dashboard they would not book a service for up to a month.   Nearly half of motorists are, however, diligent in their attention to vehicle servicing with 28% getting their car serviced every 10-12,000 miles and 19% servicing their vehicle in line with manufacturer recommendations. 

But the overall cost of motoring certainly appears to be a concern for many drivers, with 15% admitting that in the past year they have delayed or deferred repairs needed. 

However, as Tim Naylor, Editor the BCA Used Car Market Report explained, this could be a false economy, "If a dashboard light comes on, ignoring it now could lead to a substantial repair bill later on that might easily have been avoided.  In some cases the vehicle may not be safe to drive and at the very least it may mean performance is compromised which is in itself potentially dangerous."

He added "Whilst putting off repairs or maintenance may postpone immediate motoring costs, it could cost a lot more in the long run.  While mechanical repairs should be attended to as soon as possible, it is also a false economy to ignore damage to bodywork and trim. Dents, dinks and scratches tend to deteriorate further if not addressed quickly and could end up affecting the resale value of the car some time down the line."

*BCA surveyed 625 motorists, July 2013

DATED: 02.08.13

FEED: HA