Category Archives: Automotive

Automotive, Driving, News

Leasing Broker achieves Platinum status for second year running

An award-winning car and van leasing firm has received another prestigious industry prize – the LeasePlan Network Platinum Franchisee Status for 2021.

Northampton-based Silverstone Fleet Management has been awarded the highest recognition from the world’s largest vehicle leasing and fleet management operation, LeasePlan, for the second year running.

The much-coveted Platinum status is only given to a small number of UK businesses to acknowledge their dedication, hard work and excellence in customer commitment.

As one of the UK’s leading funders in the vehicle leasing sector, LeasePlan’s nod is an impressive accolade.

Silverstone Fleet Management managing director Scott Norville said: “Awards such as this are testament to every member of my incredible team, who regularly go above and beyond for our customers.

“We have faced unprecedented challenges across the industry for the past couple of years and for us as a business to be recognised with this award shows the dedication and hard work that is put in at SFM.

“Well done to everyone for their commitment. It is a real honour to be recognised for this by a global powerhouse like LeasePlan and we will continue to be proud to offer an outstanding level of customer service and care.”

Scott said: “Customer service is paramount to Silverstone Fleet Management and we pride ourselves on being a family run, friendly organisation. One of our most important values is ensuring the customer is at the forefront of everything we do. Thanks to working in partnership with the best funding providers in the UK, we can offer market leading deals with unparalleled customer service levels. This is what we refer to as The Silverstone Experience.”

For further information about Your Fleet or Silverstone Fleet Management, visit www.silverstonefleetmanagement.com or call 0800 612 8901.

Automotive, Driving, News

Sytner Group’s Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealerships bounce back with record sales in 2021

In 2021, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars saw its highest ever sales results in its 117-year history and, in Sytner Group’s dealerships this is no different with its market share rising to 44%.

Since 2019, Sytner Group’s business has grown by 5% of the overall UK volume rising from 39% to 44% in 2021.

In the height of the pandemic in 2020, factories closed and limited operations were running for a significant period which, in turn, caused global volumes to drop. This was mirrored in the UK market, seeing a reduction compared to the same period in 2019.

Sytner Group’s Rolls-Royce Motor Cars dealership in Manchester slightly increased their share to 22% in 2022 but, still saw a unit reduction. The Sunningdale dealership only dropped one unit on 2020, which was a record year, this saw their market share spike to record highs of 28%.

Coming into 2021, the whole UK market saw a bounce back with renewed strength in demand, bringing retail volume back up, and eventually capped due to production capacity. Sytner Group saw another strong performance with both businesses increasing volume on 2020 and Sunningdale seeing volume growth on 2019.

Mark Taylor, Specialist Division Sales Manager at Sytner Group, said: “A 44% market share in 2021 is a fantastic position for Sytner Group to be in considering every UK dealer went over its full year business targets.

“We’re very proud of our colleague’s efforts over the past three years and would like to thank them for all of their hard work and great customer service that they’re consistently giving.”

In terms of provenance, pre-owned, and Sytner Group’s share of the UK total volume was 46% for the year, split into 28% Sunningdale and 17% Manchester.

UK volume and shares of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Year Manchester dealership market share Sunningdale dealership market share Sytner Group total market share
2021 21% 23% 44%
2020 22% 28% 50%
2019 21% 17% 39%

Both Sunningdale and Manchester went over and above targets for 2021 and it goes without saying that Sunningdale reached dizzy highs in 2021 becoming the first UK dealer to reach 100 Provenance sales.

All Rolls-Royce models performed extremely strongly. Growth has been driven principally by the exciting addition of the new Ghost to the Rolls-Royce family, with demand surging further, following the launch of the exciting Black Badge Ghost in October 2021. This, together with the continuing pre-eminence of Cullinan and the marque’s flagship model, Phantom, has ensured order books are full well into the third quarter of 2022.

Rolls-Royce also announced it will be introducing its first its first all-electric car, Spectre, during 2021. The extraordinary undertaking of bringing Spectre to market by the fourth quarter of 2023 has now begun, and the most punishing testing protocol ever conceived for a Rolls‑Royce is underway. This 2.5‑million-kilometre journey, which extends to all four corners of the world, will simulate more than 400 years of use for a Rolls‑Royce.

To find out more about Rolls-Royce Motor Cars or to find your next car, visit the website.

Appointments, Automotive, Automotive Tech, Business, Business News, Electronics, Europe, European News, Industry News, Industry Press Releases, Manufacturing, News, UK

Codasip appoints Functional Safety VP

Dave Higham’s expertise in ISO 26262 and security drives Codasip’s custom processor opportunities

Munich, Germany – 2 February 2022 – Codasip, the leading supplier of customizable processor IP, has appointed Dave Higham as the company’s Vice President of Functional Safety. His in-depth expertise in standards for functional safety and security will accelerate the application of Codasip’s RISC-V processor IP and Studio custom processor designer tools in the automotive and industrial sectors.

Higham will directly support customers looking to develop groundbreaking innovations using Codasip’s tools and development platform, particularly within areas such as Connected and Autonomous Vehicles. His expertise in the development of key industry specification ISO 26262 is of paramount importance, but his role is broader than that, reflecting how functional safety and security (such as ISO 21434) are key in many areas of technology.

Karel Masarík, Codasip’s Founder & President commented, “With his decades of experience at Delphi, one of the automotive industry’s Tier One technology suppliers, plus years of experience in multiple global semiconductor vendors, Dave brings to Codasip an unparalleled understanding of FuSa. I have no doubts that he will help Codasip customers maximize the opportunities of innovating in these markets, and to guide them intelligently through the safety requirements.”

Dave Higham, added, “Automotive is an obvious growth market for Codasip’s processor IP and Studio tools. But functional safety and security go hand in hand in many market areas too, where our customers expect these to be covered in any design conversation. Codasip has a unique ability to support customization and there are a number of architectural features we can enable to ensure safety and security are better by design, from the tools and methodology as well as in our standard products.”

Automotive, Automotive Tech, News

Why Should You Consider Buying an Electric Car?

Public opinion is shifting on electric vehicles. Once a poor performer with short mileage and inconvenient charging needs, recent technological developments have turned electric vehicles into a real contender for the roads in the 21st century. But why exactly should you buy an electric vehicle?

 

Saving Money

One major benefit of switching to an electric vehicle is a financial one. With more and more full-electric versions of popular vehicles being developed by major manufacturers – the new Vauxhall Corsa E being an excellent example – the number of EVs available on the market has increased considerably. This has had a knock-on effect on cost, making them more competitively priced than ever before.

But the savings are not solely found in the list price for new electric vehicles. The running costs for an electric car can be far lower than those of its petrol counterparts; charging an EV using electrical points was cheaper than filling up a petrol vehicle, even before the cost of petrol rose to an all-time high as a result of instability in the oil market. EV motors are also far simpler than combustion engines, saving maintenance costs and the price of engine oil.

 

Lowering Your Carbon Footprint

Environmental issues have become a pressure point for many members of the public in the UK, with more and more people invested in lowering their carbon footprint to slow the rising of global temperatures. One of the single biggest impacts a person can make with regard to their carbon emissions is to cut out the use of fossil fuels, by either ditching a car for public transport or switching to a full-electric vehicle.

 

The End of New Petrol Car Sales

The environmental incentives do not stop with personal ambitions; the UK government has implemented a series of directives, in an effort to reduce national emissions – one of which is a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars starting in 2030. The bold measure is designed to curb the number of gas-guzzlers on the road, and to gradually turn the general public onto the use of full-electric vehicles. As petrol vehicles become increasingly obsolete, and increasingly susceptible to emissions charges and levies, getting ahead of the curve and purchasing an EV can save headaches in the future.

 

Ease of Use

Aside from the monetary and environmental benefits of switching to an electric vehicle, using one for day-to-day driving can prove far simpler and easier than using a petrol or diesel vehicle. As mentioned before, the motor in an EV is far less complex than the internal combustion engine, requiring less maintenance as a result. Not only a cost-saving measure, but this also reduces the number of times you need to take time out to visit a mechanic. The motor also does not require engine oil, making personal maintenance much simpler.

Automotive

All New 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid Debuts at Los Angeles Car Show

After recently debuting the all-new fifth generation Sportage, Kia has unveiled an electrified version of the brand’s longest running nameplate at the Los Angeles Auto Show (LAAS). The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid (HEV) is the third model in an ongoing cadence of eco-minded offerings guided by Kia’s global EV strategy, ‘Plan S.’ This newest Kia follows in the footsteps of the recently launched EV6 and the Sorento PHEV to serve as another example of Kia’s multiple pathways to electrification.

Arriving early next year, the Sportage Hybrid will deliver an ideal mix of fuel efficiency and power along with an abundance of room for gear. Significantly larger than the previous generation Sportage, the Hybrid will allow owners to enjoy class-leading rear seat legroom and rear cargo capacity2. The “Opposites United” design language employed on Sportage brings a bold blend of modern styling and sporty visual elements, while its interior offers the latest in technology, including an expansive list of ADAS features and dual panoramic display screens (12.3-inch instrument panel display and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen display) for nearly 25 inches of viewing.

This Sportage’s electrified performance comes from a seamless hybrid powertrain combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with a 44-kilowatt motor to achieve up to 39 mpg (targeted). Together, engine and motor make 226 horsepower channeled to either the front wheels or an active all-wheel-drive system. The result is a fuel-sipping compact SUV that delivers an engaging driving experience.

“The new Sportage Hybrid SUV marks yet another step in Kia’s advance on sustainable mobility, as part of our global ‘Plan S’ efforts,” said Sean Yoon, president and CEO, Kia America, Kia North America. “In addition to paving a new pathway to electrification, the Sportage Hybrid also delivers superb driving dynamics, cutting-edge design, and a vast array of technology for a world-class in-car experience.”

The Sportage Hybrid is offered in three trim levels: LX, EX, and SX-Prestige.

New Foundation

Underpinned by the same all-new 3rd generation “N3” platform found in the Sorento line of vehicles, the Sportage Hybrid chassis provides a rigid base to achieve:

– Better driving dynamics via expanded use of hot-stamped parts and ultra-high-strength steel for increased average tensile strength and torsional stiffness
– Minimized road, wind, and engine noise via greater application of sound absorbing and insulating materials

The Sportage has gone from one of the smallest SUVs in its class to one of the largest:

– Overall length is 7.1 inches longer than the previous generation, with a 3.4-inch longer wheelbase
– Taller and wider by a half inch compared to the previous generation
– Class-leading rear legroom with 41.3 inches of room1
– Best-in-Class rear cargo capacity of 39.5 cu-ft. of space1
– Dual level cargo floor

Best of Both Worlds Power and Efficiency

The Sportage Hybrid blends performance and efficiency with an optimized powertrain:

– 1.6-liter turbo GDI engine
– 44kW permanent magnet electric motor
– High-output 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery
– 6-speed automatic transmission with rotary style shifter
– Combined 226 horsepower (targeted)
– Up to 39 mpg in FWD (targeted)
– Class-leading 2,000 lb towing capacity
– Active AWD is standard on EX and SX-Prestige trims, while LX is available with a choice of FWD and Active AWD
– Active AWD system2 uses electro-hydraulic coupling with center-locking differential to actively distribute power between front and rear wheels depending on road and driving conditions
– E-Handling uses the hybrid motor to deliver a confident driving experience
– Standard paddle shifters and Drive Mode Select with ECO, Sport, Smart and Snow modes.

“Opposites United” Design

Closely mimicking the exterior of its petrol-powered counterpart, the Sportage Hybrid bears all the elements of Kia’s new “Opposites United” design philosophy, developed as part of the Kia global brand transformation, “Movement that Inspires.”

– Tiger nose grille gets more technical with floating design
– Distinct “boomerang” daytime running lights
– Angular fenders
– Crisp shoulder line
– Muscular shoulders around the rear flow into futuristic “notch-shaped” taillights, which are seamlessly connected by a thin black graphic across the tailgate
– Unique 17- and 18-inch HEV wheel designs
– HEV badging

A Modern, Spacious, Tech-Savvy Interior

Inspired by high-end outdoor products, furniture, and modern architecture, the interior of the Sportage highlights a new concept for Kia, transforming the cabin into a pleasant living space, complete with near-luxury, thoughtful features:

– Available dual panoramic curved display3 seamlessly connects two screens for nearly 25-inches of viewing (12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment screen)
– Angular air vents
– Asymmetrical console puts controls and buttons at driver’s hand with ease
– Real stitching and detailed pattern on the seats create a feeling of luxury (SX-Prestige), along with animal-free leather (EX and above)
– Innovative coat hanger molded behind front headrests with integrated hook for shopping bags or for organizing charging cables

To match the high-tech interior, the Sportage Hybrid is packed with standard and available infotainment to keep drivers connected and informed of what’s going on around them:

– Standard Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on all trims
– Intuitive new touchpad with climate and audio controls sits beneath the infotainment screen
– Available 360-degree Surround-View Monitor with 3D view (first time on Sportage) provides a bird’s-eye view of vehicle surroundings
– Available Harman-Kardon premium audio system
– Multi-connection Bluetooth simultaneously links two smartphones (EX and SX-Prestige trims)
– Personalized profile to remember seat position, outside mirror location (SX-Prestige only); infotainment preferences, phone connection pairings (EX only)
– Available wireless charging pad built inside the upper tray
– Available Kia Connect services (first Kia application) provide advanced embedded connectivity:
– Wi-Fi Hotspot connects up to five devices to 4G LTE-based internet
– Includes over the air map updates for eligible vehicles
– Refreshed Kia Access App with newly added compatibility through Apple- and Android-based smartwatches to access features like remote climate control, door lock/unlock and more
– Peace of mind with the recently introduced stolen vehicle tracking and immobilization capability
– Connected Routing: Cloud-based system calculates the optimal route using real-time maps and predicted traffic info based on historical information and AI to learn the preferred routes of users
– Smart Speaker Integration lets customers use Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant enabled smart speakers or devices to remotely control some functions (such as remote start)

Advanced Driver Assistance Technology

The Sportage Hybrid has no shortage of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems:

– Driver Attention Warning (DAW) : Analyzes the driver’s attention level and provides a warning if a break is recommended. It may also provide a leading vehicle departure alert, if the leading vehicle departs from a stop and the driver does not react within a certain time period.
– LED Headlights with High Beam Assist (HBA): Engineered to automatically dim the headlights when an oncoming or leading vehicle is detected, then return to high beams when vehicles are no longer detected
– Lane Following Assist (LFA): Helps detect lane markings and vehicles ahead and provides steering inputs to help center the vehicle in the lane
– Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Helps detect lane markings and provides steering inputs to help prevent the vehicle from leaving the lane while driving
– Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with Cyclist detection capability: Warns if there is risk of a collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist in front of the vehicle while driving and may automatically assist with braking
– Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) : Provides a warning to the driver to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle
– Rear View Monitor (RVM) with Dynamic Parking Guidance: Provides view behind the vehicle, with guidelines that adjust to follow the direction the vehicle is turning
– Reverse Parking Distance Warning: Detects certain objects behind the vehicle, issuing an audible warning when an obstruction is detected. The warning tone chimes faster as the vehicle gets closer to the detected object
Available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems:
– Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) : Projects live video view of adjacent lanes in the instrument cluster when activated via the turn signal
– Blind Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist (BCA): May help avoid a collision with rear-side vehicles in changing lanes
– Blind Spot Collision Avoidance (BCA-PE) with Parallel Exit (first Kia application): May help avoid collisions with rear-side vehicles when exiting parallel parking spot by automatically assisting with braking
– Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist (RCCA): Helps detect approaching cross traffic when in reverse. When approaching cross traffic is detected, the system alerts the driver and may apply brakes
– Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA-JT) with Junction Turning capability: Helps avoid collisions with an oncoming vehicle while turning left at an intersection
– Forward Parking Distance Warning (PDW-F): Detects certain objects in front of the vehicle, issuing an audible warning when an obstruction is detected. The warning tone chimes faster as the vehicle gets closer to the detected object
– Highway Driving Assist (HDA) : Uses federal highway speed limit information from the navigation system and, under certain conditions, will automatically adjust speed to be within the posted speed limit and maintain distance with the vehicle detected in front and helps center the vehicle in the lane
– Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA): Uses speed limit information detected through the front camera or GPS navigation information (when activated) and issues warning if the speed is over the speed limit
– Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (NSCC-C): Leverages the navigation system to help lower the vehicle’s speed proactively before upcoming curves
– Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control-Zone (NSCC-Z): Leverages the navigation system to help lower the vehicle’s speed proactively before upcoming changes in speed limits
– Reverse Parking Collision Avoidance (PCA-R): May help avoid collisions with rear pedestrians or objects detected during reverse parking, potentially automatically assisting with emergency braking if the risk of a collision increases after warning
– Safe Exit Warning (SEW) : Provides a warning when a vehicle is approaching from the rear-side while someone is exiting the vehicle
– Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop and Go: Helps maintain distance from the vehicle ahead and drive at a speed set by the driver, including in certain stop-and-go driving conditions
The following systems are new to Sportage: BCA, BVM, FCA-Cyclist, FCA-JT, LFA, HAD, NSCC-Curve, NSCC-Zone, PCA-R, ROA, and SEW.

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of more than 750 dealers in the U.S., including cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.*

*The Telluride, Sorento and K5 are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

Automotive, News

Top seven tips on how to fit your Christmas tree into your car

  • With the festive season nearly upon us, Zuto have compiled seven tips to help you transport the “pièce de resistance” back home
  • Tips include making your tree more compact and ensuring that you select the right tree for your car
  • Due to the weather at this time of year and the added hinderance of a tree in your car, Zuto are calling for drivers to be extra careful on their journeys home

 

Christmas trees form a large part of the festive season, with 85% of UK adults having a one in their household each year1.

If you’re opting for a real tree this year, The British Tree Grows Association2  suggests that you should purchase your tree no earlier than 1st December, so now is the perfect time to prepare.

With that in mind, Zuto have compiled 7 top tips to help you safely transport your tree home:

  1. Measure your car and the tree

This sounds simple but it can make or break the transportation effort, so make sure to have a tape measure handy to measure both the length and width of your car and tree. Another key thing to keep in mind is that you also have to fit in the car to drive home! So, ensure that there’s enough room with the tree in the back for you to safely drive home.

  1. Fold down the seats

This gives you extra room to fit an even bigger tree and causes less broken branches on the journey home. Without the seats being folded down you have a lot less wiggle room and will likely cause more damage to the tree, and possibly the car, than necessary.

  1. Place down some covers if it’s a real tree to avoid the mess

Real trees can make a mess with needles , dust and branches falling off, so putting down some covers in your car can save you from clearing up most of the mess. Heavy duty bin liners do the job perfectly or if not some old sheets or blankets would also work.

  1. Make sure the tree is netted

Not only will this make the tree more compact and easier to fit into your car, but it will also protect the foliage from any unnecessary damage. It also makes it much easier to carry to and from your car! So, wherever you buy your tree from, ask them to net it for you or simply net it yourself.

  1. Tie it to the roof if it doesn’t fit inside

If you want a tree that doesn’t fit in your car or want to avoid most of the mess altogether, this is the way to go. Consider investing in some roof racks and bungee rope if you go with this option. Be mindful of harsh weather conditions as high winds can make it harder to drive and also damage your tree.

  1. Drive carefully!

The most important step – the precarious weather, added weight and possibly impaired vision requires extra care while transporting the Xmas centrepiece home.

  1. Choose an artificial pop-up tree

If all of this sounds like too much hassle for you, join the other 85% of people and get yourself an artificial tree! If you find a pop up one you might not even have to put the seats down and you can avoid all the mess that comes with buying a real tree.

Lucy Sherliker, Head of Customer at Zuto, says: “With the difficulties of driving in the winter weather making accidents more common, a Christmas tree in the back of your car could add an extra layer of stress to a journey. These tips will hopefully make getting a Christmas tree home that bit easier before you enjoy the fun of adding the decorations”

If your current car isn’t up to scratch and you’d like to view some of the financing options that Zuto offer, or to get a free quote, visit https://www.zuto.com/.

[ENDS]

 

  1. https://www.scribbler.com/Blog/Christmas-Tree-Statistics-2021/
  2. https://www.bctga.co.uk/

 

About Zuto:

Zuto are car finance experts who have been on a mission to remove the complexity and hassle out of finding and financing a car since 2006. Zuto work with a range of lenders to suit all financial circumstances, and have helped over 250,000 customers find a car and finance deal that suits them.

Automotive, News

YesAuto’s Virtual Car Show Draws in Millions of Global Consumers in 2nd Successful Year

YesAuto, the online car marketplace, has once again attracted millions of consumers from around the world to its annual Virtual Car Show. With hundreds of dealerships and manufacturers on show throughout the month of September, the Virtual Car Show provided more than 1.5 million consumers with the opportunity to view and experience cars from anywhere in the world.

Having first launched in 2020, amidst the height of the global pandemic, YesAuto’s Virtual Car Show has demonstrated that the virtual world is here to stay. Even though just prior to launch, all UK restrictions on movement were lifted, YesAuto’s innovative show still drew in millions of viewers and prospective buyers. Going from 750,000 unique views in 2020, the 2021 iteration saw more than 1.5 million consumers log on and a total page views over 2 million over just 4 weeks.

With more innovative features available than in 2020, with 360° panoramic view technology, users where able to see VR interior and exteriors of various car models and speak directly with the dealership about the cars performance and what deals were available. This increase in features paid dividends, with the average viewing time increasing by over 50% across the month. Likewise, the engagement rate increased by the same amount with consumers focused on discovering everything they could about the vehicles on show while browsing on their phone, tablet and pcs.

The free to attend show, featured the likes of BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Ford, Audi, Alfa Romeo and Fiat. With viewers most interest in Jaguar Land Rover, Fiat and Alfa Romeo this year, with the average time spent browsing these cars topping 5 minutes.

 

UK General Manager at YesAuto, Neil You, comments “The digital transformation the world has undertaken due to Covid-19 will remain. The success of YesAuto’s Virtual Car Show is testament to this. Thanks to the support of all our partners and customers, we’ve once again seen how customers respond to innovation within the automotive sector. As we look to 2022 and next year, we’re hard at work to ensure our annual Virtual Car Show continues to offer consumers, dealers and manufacturers alike with an attractive platform with which to engage with”.

 If you missed this year’s Virtual Car Show, but are keen to find out more about the platform, please visit here: https://vrcarshow.yesauto.com/yesauto/30000

 

Automotive, Automotive Tech, News

Coventry University researchers bid to save lives with new device designed to improve vehicle safety

Coventry University researchers are hoping to save lives through a new device they’ve developed to prevent vehicles from aquaplaning and losing traction control due to adverse road conditions.

Professor Mike Blundell and Ravi Ranjan from Coventry University’s Research Centre for Future Transport and Cities have produced the Run Dry Traction System (RDTS) following a two-year research project.

The prototype product aims to prevent aquaplaning and loss of traction in a variety of road conditions. Aquaplaning, also referred to as hydroplaning, happens when a layer of surface water builds up between a vehicle’s tyres and the road surface, leading to a complete loss of grip. This can occur with as little as 2-3mm of standing water on the road surface when vehicles are travelling at a variety of speeds and is a leading cause of road traffic accidents.

The RDTS presents a novel potential solution to aquaplaning and the loss of traction by preventing water and other contaminants from reaching the tyre. The device works by firing a jet of compressed gas close to the front of the wheel, removing surface water in front of the tyre to ensure the vehicle has a dry patch of road ahead. This effectively ensures grip is not compromised by road contaminants such as water, sand and gravel.

Professor Mike Blundell, Professor of Vehicle Dynamics and Impact at Coventry University, said: “Our tests demonstrate that RDTS has the potential to make a huge impact on vehicle safety in a whole host of conditions. The prospect of producing something that could even save lives on the road is extremely exciting and after some initial success with testing, we’re now eager to look into manufacturing potential and further research to take this concept to the next level.

“A device like this really could be the difference between life and death if it can help vehicles to stop safely within certain distances and that’s why we’re so keen to continue developing this concept.”

The RDTS has been designed to be fitted to a wide range of vehicles, including cars, buses, trucks and motorcycles and with further development, it could even have the potential to be used to improve aircraft ground operations and rail transport safety.

Find out more about Run Dry Traction System (RDTS) and Coventry University’s Knowledge Exchange activities

Automotive, News

Southampton entrepreneur launches the world’s first in-app prestige car marketplace

From an iconic Formula One 1996 Williams-Renault FW18-3 to a classic Mercedes-Benz 300SL 1961 Roadster or a James Bond-esque 1965 Aston Martin DB5 – the world’s most desirable cars have been brought together in one place for the very first time following the launch of an innovative mobile app dedicated to the prestige car market – the brainchild of Southampton-based entrepreneur Reuben Smith.

Prestige Driver App™ has been created for car enthusiasts in the market for their dream car or those looking to add to a collection. Working in partnership with dealerships from the UK, Europe and the US, as well as industry publications, the app brings together a live inventory from multiple prestige car dealers into one place to significantly streamline the buying process.

Cars for sale in the app range from £60,000 to over £1,000,000 with sports cars, classic cars and performance vehicles all featured for sale. Whilst there are cars to suit all budgets, a number of those featured are so rare or renowned that they are labelled as price on application.

Three of the world’s most lusted over cars – you could buy today:

For those in the market for a performance car, one of the most successful Formula 1 models of all time is currently featured. Offered by SpeedMaster Cars is the 1996 Williams – Renault FW18-3. The FW18 won 12 of 16 races and the World Championship in 1996, designed by Adrian Newey the car dominated the opposition. The car was driven to two pole positions, three race wins and two second places by Jaques Villeneuve and decided the World Championship in the last race of the season.

Or for classic car enthusiasts with £1.1 million to spare, Hexagon Classics is selling an iconic Mercedes-Benz 300SL 1961 Roadster. Looked after by experts, the large history file on the car reads like a Who’s Who of the Mercedes Benz scene. The cover star of countless magazines and newspapers and used as the parade car for Sir Stirling Moss at Goodwood Festival, it is surely one of the finest examples on offer today.

Perhaps you are looking to James Bond to inspire your next car purchase – how about a 1965 Aston Martin DB5 – one of Bond’s most iconic cars featuring in eight films to date. With less than 900 coupes manufactured for global distribution, this iconic car is for sale with price on application – DB5s tend to fetch around £400,000 t0 £900,000.

As well as appealing to those in the market for one of these distinctive cars, the app enables enthusiasts to indulge their passion with article content on motor racing, historic, classic, competition and the latest supercars.

Reuben Smith, Founder of Prestige Driver App™ said: “The prestige car buying market is booming right now and there is huge investment potential in classic, performance and sports cars – especially when bought for the right price and kept in good condition. The launch of the new James Bond films has also driven up interest in classic cars with Aston Martins extremely popular at the moment. That said, the market for models from the 1980s and 1990s is also starting to gain some traction.

“With online auctions and sales really growing in popularity sine the pandemic, buyers are demanding that the buying process be as streamlined as possible and in-app marketplaces which curate content centrally are set to dominate this sector. The app allows those in the market for a prestige car to access and research cars from the palm of their hand. With stock from multiple dealers from across the world in one place.

“Whilst app-based marketplaces really are the future for many specialist sectors, motoring magazines are still extremely popular with this audience so we have integrated functionality which bridges the gap between traditional media and the online space. The scan function means that users can instantly bring to life print adverts within the app to offer rich, multimedia content.

“We have hundreds of prestige cars from dealers from across the world and the inventory is growing daily. Whilst there are many rare gems to be found within the app we really do feel that we have something for everyone with sports cars ranging from £80,000 to £350,000 selling extremely well.”

If you are looking to invest in a classic car – Reuben has this advice:

“When it comes to investing in cars there are a number of factors that you need to take into consideration – from budget to how you intend to use it and whether you are looking for something unusual and rare or a classic that you can use day-to-day. You might also be looking to invest in something which you can restore – in that case you are more likely to buy though auction.

“The key is to do your homework first – read up on the type of cars that you are interested in buying and gain an understanding of the best models to invest in, running and servicing costs and any other issues that particular models may regularly experience. You also could join an owners club which can provide lots of valuable insights and advice.

“Ultimately budget is going to be a huge deciding factor when you come to buy – you can pick up cars for as little as a few thousand pounds, right up to millions of pounds for the rarest models. That said, many classic cars will offer you a good return if bought at the right price and well looked after – and for many, collecting is a passion project and long term investment.

“Before parting with your money, make sure that you fully inspect the car. You may want to pay an experienced classic car engineer to come along with you to identify any issues or faults. Buying through a reputable dealer is always recommended – especially for cars with higher price tags. You can research and source a wide range of classic cars via Prestige Driver App™, which will link you straight with a specialist dealer.”

To learn more visit https://targetcars.app/

Automotive, News

The AA announces partnership with Tempcover

Tempcover, leading short-term vehicle insurance provider, has partnered with the AA to provide its customers with an industry-first breakdown cover and call out assistance available by the hour. Rather than taking out an annual or monthly policy, Tempcover’s breakdown service can be purchased alongside a Tempcover Private Car, Commercial Vehicle or Motorbike Policy for the required length of time. Insured and served by the AA.

Tempcover is a leading provider of short-term vehicle insurance in the UK, supporting millions of drivers to get flexible and affordable insurance. From simply borrowing a car, to learning to drive, to insuring additional drivers in a small business, the new partnership with the AA will allow drivers to feel fully supported while on the road for as long as they need.

As part of the agreement, Tempcover customers who choose to add breakdown cover to their policy will receive Roadside Assistance, Home Start and National Recovery to ensure they’ll be covered for every eventuality during their selected period of time. Not only will the collaboration support drivers in a difficult situation, but it will also provide them with the reassurance and complete confidence when getting behind the wheel.

Speaking about the collaboration, Alan Inskip, CEO at Tempcover, commented: “This latest development is just another example of how Tempcover is constantly evolving its product offering to meet the rapidly evolving needs of modern-day customers. The AA is one of the nation’s most trusted automotive recovery providers, and this new partnership means that we are now able to offer full peace-of-mind to all customers who require breakdown cover on their temporary vehicle insurance policies that last anywhere between one hour and 28 days. And it takes just 90 seconds to get full cover following a simple online quotation process.”

Gavin Franks, director of business services at the AA, added: “Alongside Tempcover, customer service is at the centre of everything we do, so we are very proud to be giving their customers the opportunity to have temporary breakdown cover alongside their temporary insurance. As a trusted voice within the industry, this partnership means we can provide our award-winning services to a wider network and give Tempcover’s customers complete confidence in the event of a breakdown.”

For more information about the AA, visit: www.theaa.com/business. For more information about Tempcover’s new breakdown cover, visit: www.tempcover.com/breakdown-cover.