Category Archives: Driving

Automotive, Driving, EVs and Automotive News, News

Bramble Energy achieves milestone in hydrogen fuel cell production, advancing UK’s electrified automotive future

Cleantech and Hydrogen fuel cell tech specialist completes £1.8 million SuRV project, accelerating the journey to a net zero future in transportation.   

London, UK. 9 MAY 2024: Cleantech and Hydrogen fuel cell technology specialist Bramble Energy has successfully completed a project aimed at accelerating the transition to an electrified automotive industry in the UK, funded by the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC)’s Scale-up Readiness Validation (SuRV) programme.

As part of the Automotive Transformation Fund – a programme created to support large-scale industrialisation – Bramble Energy was awarded £1.8 million in September 2022 to develop an optimised fuel cell stack assembly with the capacity to produce up to 2,000 50 kW stacks/year. This has been accomplished, in less than two years, at the firm’s state of the art HQ and Hydrogen Innovation Hub in Crawley.

The completion of the SuRV project has seen Bramble Energy simplify the fuel cell stack assembly process through the design of its already trademarked Printed Circuit Board Fuel Cell (PCBFC™), which includes integrated membrane electrode assembly into unitised PCB modules (cells).

Furthermore, the process has seen the company prove its low cost production roadmap to $100/kW at 2,000 x 50 kW stacks/year (100 MW/year)*.

Bolstering Bramble Energy’s momentum in driving change in the transportation sector, the business also secured funding last year to provide first-of-its-kind fuel cell technology for a new hydrogen-powered double-deck bus. The project, part of the Hydrogen Electric Integrated Drivetrain Initiative (HEIDI), involves partners including Equipmake, Aeristech, and the University of Bath, and is supported by £6.3 million from the APC, matched by industry contributions to total £12.7 million.

 

Dr Tom Mason, CEO Bramble Energy, comments on the firm’s commitments towards a net zero future in transportation: “In our efforts to help both the automotive and public transport industry find a clean, reliable and cost-effective way of powering vehicles, both the SuRV and HEIDI projects have helped us deliver internal efficiency development, refine our build process and create more flexibility with our design. We already have unique production USPs with our fuel cell modules and the PCB industry, so the SuRV project was the perfect way to make advancements internally with delivering the fastest and most efficient build process.

“The UK Government’s aim to halt new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035 influences Bramble Energy’s plans. However, it’s just part of a larger vision. Our focus extends beyond this goal as we work towards creating real-world, commercially viable solutions for the wider transportation sector: a key milestone in this journey is HEIDI, our hydrogen-powered double-deck bus demonstrator.”

 

The significant reduction in the cost of automotive fuel cells – by 70% since 2008 – mirrors the strides made by pioneering technology companies such as Bramble Energy and the wider industry towards more efficient and scalable production processes. This evolution from capital-intensive and slow production cycles to more economical and faster production methods not only enhances the viability of fuel cell technology, but also positions the UK as a potential leader in this field. It’s a shift that promises to bolster the UK’s industrial landscape, while also contributing to a broader global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

 

APC’s Automotive Transformation Director, Julian Hetherington added: “The successful completion of this APC Scale-up Readiness Validation (SuRV) project by Bramble Energy reinforces confidence in large-scale manufacturing investment to build electrified supply chains in the UK. Our aim is to support innovative businesses like Bramble Energy that have the expertise to accelerate change in the automotive sector as it transitions to a net zero future. By advancing fuel cell technology, it brings a viable net-zero transport solution which can scale quickly and be delivered at lower cost.”

Driving, Education, Education News

Hawkstone Scholarship Programme Winner Announced at University of South Wales

During September 2023, Hawkstone Commercials launched the Hawkstone Scholarship Programme which gave business study students at the University of South Wales the opportunity to compete for a £500 bursary payment.

Hawkstone Commercials is an independent vehicle leasing broker operating out of Bridgend in South Wales who were recently named in the Top 100 SME Businesses 2024.

The task set to the students was to write a detailed paper on how to overcome one of the key issues that faces the motor industry, and to outline opportunities in the market to further grow the business.

The winner was selected after a vigorous judging process, and it has been announced that the Hawkstone Scholarship bursary will go to Lekshmi Nair after delivering an exceptional final paper on the subject matter.

Director of Hawkstone Commercials, Oliver Lewis said “As a business we feel very strongly about giving back to organisations and charities as often as we can. There is a lot of talent within the University of South Wales, and it is important to give them as many real-world opportunities as possible to ensure they can develop into the next generation of entrepreneurs”.

“After meeting with Lekshmi, it was clear that the Scholarship Programme has added a lot of value to the University and the students within. We have made the decision to start another programme this year, which we believe will be a bigger success than the last” Oliver added.

Lekshmi Nair said “It was fantastic to challenge myself in a subject and topic that I am not particularly familiar with. I undertook a lot of research to fully understand how the industry operates to ensure that I provided a strong and robust paper. I would like to thank Hawkstone Commercials for the opportunity”.

Hawkstone Commercials has set its sights on expanding the Scholarship Programme across other universities in Wales, and to local colleges in the near future.

 

Driving, Driving at Work, Driving Tech, Fleet Management, Technology, Telematics

Pinpointers Enhances Fleet and Video Telematics Offering with Queclink Wireless Solutions

Pinpointers, a leading provider of vehicle tracking and video telematics solutions, has expanded its hardware partnership with Queclink Wireless Solutions. The latest agreement will cover the provision of the recently launched CV200 smart dashcam, enhancing the company’s fleet proposition with a highly flexible, all-in-one camera and tracking device.

“Our priority is always user experience, so we needed a robust and consistent dashcam that works out of the box first time,” explains Jon Pope, Sales Director at Pinpointers. “We have undertaken extensive testing within the video telematics marketplace over a number of years and found the CV200 AI dashcam unmatched in terms of reliability, functionality and affordability.”

The CV200 is 4G device that delivers fleet and video telematics functionality in a single unit, combining AI features with the ability to add a choice of secondary cameras and integrate with the vehicle’s CAN bus system. During the testing phase, Pinpointers identified a number of unique features including equal priority for tracking and video data; video retrieval when the ignition is turned off; and instant device start-up.

“We have a longstanding relationship with Queclink Wireless Solutions, based on their ability to deliver quality products backed by unrivalled support. Their global presence also means they can provide certified solutions for different international markets. As a result, the CV200 will be a core component of our expansion into the United States and the Philippines this year,” adds Pope.

Vernon Bonser, UK Sales Director at Queclink Wireless Solutions commented: “We are working with a growing number of telematics service providers to support their fleet and video technology needs. As hardware partner of choice, we provide 4G vehicle telematics, asset tracking and dash cameras, which are underpinned by first-class technical and operational support.”

Driving, News

Coventry-Based Electric Car Subscription Business Nominated for EV Advocate of the Year

Car Subscription Business Nominated by Automotive Management

Coventry-based electric car subscription company EZOO have recently announced their nomination for the prestigious EV Advocate of the Year award by Automotive Management.

“We are honoured to be recognised for our dedication to advancing electric vehicle adoption,” stated Lash Saranna, Co-Founder & CEO of EZOO. “To be nominated alongside industry leaders like Volkswagen UK, Nissan UK, Devonshire Motor Company, and Luscombe’s is truly humbling.”

The AM Awards ceremony is set for Thursday, May 2nd, at the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge in London.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, Lash remarked, “Our journey began in 2015 when we acquired the first Tesla Model X, and we realised the huge potential of electric vehicles, igniting a passion that hasn’t diminished to this day.”

Acknowledging the challenges of persuading consumers to embrace electric mobility, Lash added, “We encountered scepticism and resistance. To address this, we pioneered a unique approach – offering consumers the opportunity to experience electric cars firsthand through our unique monthly subscription service.”

Despite launching during the Covid Lockdown, EZOO has swiftly expanded its electric vehicle fleet and operational footprint, recently reporting that their vehicles are now travelling more than one million miles a year.

“Our intuitive online platform enables individuals and businesses to select, lease, and have electric cars delivered directly to their doorstep,” Lash explains.

Looking to the future, Lash expressed gratitude for the nomination and optimism for what lies ahead. “This recognition bolsters our commitment to advancing electric vehicle adoption and pushes us to continue our journey towards becoming a Net Zero business,” he affirmed. “We’re excited to see what the future holds for both our company and the EV industry.”

Find Out More About EZOO’s Nomination

Driving, News

Truck Stop Praised for Driver Welfare Facilities

A STOKE-ON-TRENT truck parking site has been praised for the installation of top class driver welfare facilities.

ADS Truck Parking, in Longton hosted a celebration open day on Thursday 18 April, which saw many UK and International haulage companies in attendance along with MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, Jack Brereton and officials from the Department for Transport (DfT).

Following a welcome and presentation by owner Andrew Sargent in the brand new care area, guests were given a tour of the facilities on the day. 

Work has been completed following a £222,500 grant received in 2023, as part of the Department for Transport’s HGV Parking and Driver Welfare Grant Scheme, and now sees brand new shower and toilet facilities, a large cafe area with outside seating, plus a training room, along with a shop and social area at the site.

Security has also been further enhanced with fencing and all-round CCTV cameras.

Andrew said: “It has been great to be able to show all of the work which we have been able to do following the Government grant.

“We strive off providing the best possible facilities we can for drivers whose welfare we take very seriously. I have myself experienced life on the road during my career and totally understand how much comfortable facilities are important for drivers and that’s what we endeavour to provide now and continue to do so in going forward.”


MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, Jack Brereton said: “I was very pleased to visit ADS Truck Parking in Longton to see completed works as part of the £222,500 government grant towards improvements which are a significant improvement, helping ensure the safety and security of truck drivers.

“The new facilities which have undergone a major transformation have greatly boosted ADS Truck Parking as being a key stop-off location for hauliers travelling through our area. These new upgrades of CCTV cameras, security fencing, toilet and shower facility upgrades, alongside cafe and social area improvements. I know this will make a massive difference for truck drivers, supporting our local haulage industries and further strengthening Stoke-on-Trent’s economy.”

Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: “We’re investing over £31 million with industry to improve truckstops up and down the country, and the ADS Truck Parking is a brilliant example of how our funding is already delivering real improvements on the ground for lorry drivers.

“Lorry drivers are the unsung heroes of our economy, and we will continue working closely with the sector to improve working conditions, improve truckstops and improve careers, encouraging more people into the sector and growing the economy.”

For more information about ADS Truck Parking call  07462080094 and follow them on Facebook @ adsparking

Business, Driving, Transport

Veezu donates £1000 to Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation

VEEZU, Wolverhampton’s fastest growing private hire operator, has donated £1000 to Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation through the Funded by Veezu programme.

Funded by Veezu is an initiative in which local residents, charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants, set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation is the official charity of Wolves FC and has delivered over 45 unique projects across the city in health and wellbeing, developing education and skills, and encouraging community. The Foundation supports people of all ages and abilities.

Kieron Ansell, Wolves Foundation Business Development Manager Business said: “We are really appreciative of the generous donation made by Veezu and would like to pass on the thanks of everyone at Wolves Foundation for the support.

“This funding is the only way we can deliver these wide-ranging works. In supporting us with this donation, Veezu are directly impacting our projects and helping us to make a positive difference in our local communities.”

Graham Hoof, Regional Operations Director for Veezu, said: “The Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation does incredible work in supporting the Wolverhampton community. We are delighted to be giving back and contributing towards building better outcomes for the people of Wolverhampton.

“Working within the community is a big part of what we do at Veezu, and we want to support as many local groups and charities as we can. Funded by Veezu has already been incredibly successful in making the work of local groups and charities possible, and we look forward to making a positive impact for the Wolverhampton Wanderers Foundation.”

Driving, Sport

Nicolas Hamilton: “I went through a period of my life where I hated life. Now I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

THE brother of F1 racing legend Lewis Hamilton has admitted he went through periods of “hating his life” – but says he wouldn’t now change his disability for the world.

Nicolas Hamilton lives with a form of cerebral palsy, and his inspirational outlook on life now forms the basis of a new book which is out later this month.

The 32-year-old, who made history after becoming the first disabled driver to go up against able-bodied racers in the British Touring Car Championship, is also one of the country’s most sought-after motivational speakers.

 

Talking about the approach he takes to life, Nicolas said:  “I went through a period where I hated life. I hated my condition. I didn’t understand why I was the way I was and why I was given my condition and why I couldn’t be like my friends, who were all able bodied.

“But now I wouldn’t change it for the world and I’m so grateful to have it. I try to always play with the cards I’ve dealt in the best way possible. I strive every day to overcome any barrier that comes in front of me. It could be the smallest or the biggest barriers, but I tackle them each the same.”

 

Nicolas says his philosophy in life is “the only person that can tell me I can’t do things is me.”

“I would say I’m a very resilient person,” he said. “I never take ‘no’ as an answer and I believe that the only person that can tell me I can’t do things is me.

“So regardless of what people say, I make my own decisions and I thrive off negative criticism. If someone told me I couldn’t do something, I’d do my utmost to prove them wrong.

 

It’s a philosophy which runs through his new book, ‘Now that I have your attention: 7 Lessons in Leading a Life Bigger Than They Expected’.

It follows his remarkable journey to the top of British motorsports and beyond.  He also talks about this journey through his work as a motivational speaker.

 

Nicolas said: “I would say with my condition, I’ve been a great problem solver, over the years; always trying to find ways of getting out of situations or overcoming certain obstacles. It could be the most difficult of obstacles to the simplest of obstacles such as maybe carrying a bowl of cereal to your desk and not spilling it.

“I think I have many qualities. I don’t like talking about myself, believe it or not, even though I am a speaker, and I have to talk about myself. But I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved, and what I’ve overcome.

“I’m a very solid human. It’s not always been that easy: I’ve had a lot of ups and downs but I think generally I would say resilience is everything for me and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved and hopefully, there’s more to come from me in the future.”

 

Discussing the importance of having good mental health he added: “Mental health, I believe, is everything. The way I like to think about it is that life is 90% mental and 10% physical. It doesn’t really matter how physically fit you are and how strong you are if you’re not there mentally.

“If you don’t believe in yourself mentally, then I personally believe that you’re never going to achieve your full potential.  Now I would say mental health is a trial-and-error situation. It’s all about working out what works for you. Sometimes what people tell you would work, sometimes it doesn’t and what works for others doesn’t necessarily work for you personally.

“How I go about to try and build myself mentally is trying to find ways that I know helped me and stay true to my vision, to my desire.

 

“Also I think what a key thing of overcoming a bit of mental toughness and struggles is going through failure as well. I think failure is also very key. You’ve got to learn how to fail before you can succeed. That is how I feel.

“And so with every failure I have, I feel like it only gets stronger and stronger and my, have I had a lot of failures. And I think that’s sort of what’s made me who I am today.

“But it’s a never-ending journey and with every day that goes past, you learn something new about yourself.”

Driving, News

HPI shares advice for new drivers looking to buy their first car as latest driving test statistics are published.

New drivers are being advised to conduct thorough vehicle checks before buying their first car after passing their driving test.

The advice coincides with the publication of the latest driving test statistics produced by the Department for Transport and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The updated statistics reveal that for 2023-2024, a total of 1,928,373 car theory tests were conducted with 867,667 passes (45% pass rate) and 1,384,678 car practical tests were taken with 668,038 passes, a pass rate of 48%.

It compares with a theory and practical pass rate for 2022-2023 of 44% and 48%, respectively, with the number of theory tests 2,430,653 with 1,075,915 passes and 1,688,955  practical tests taken with 816,775 passes.

The 2023-2024 figures indicate the lowest number of theory and practical tests conducted and passed since 2021. 2021-2022 saw 1,234,013 passes from 2,463,621 theory tests (50% pass rate) and 751,914 passes from 1,528,314 practical driving tests (49% pass rate).

For motorists, including new drivers looking to buy their first car,  HPI Check® gives used car buyers the confidence they need to shop around, knowing they can quickly discover a vehicle’s history.  By checking a car’s history with HPI, peace of mind in terms of condition and mileage can lead to happier and much safer motoring.  The well-known vehicle history check from HPI includes a full MOT history, which is standard on the HPI Check®.

In addition to confirming if a vehicle has been written off, the HPI Check® includes a mileage check and also cross references with the mileage last recorded at the time of the previous MOT. It also confirms whether a vehicle is currently recorded as stolen by the police or has outstanding finance against it.

Leading vehicle history check and valuation specialist, HPI identifies over 2,000 written-off cars every day. Unfortunately for consumers, cars with hidden secrets are often offered for sale by unscrupulous sellers who won’t always declare to unsuspecting buyers that they are insurance write-offs.

HPI data reveals a one in three chance of uncovering another hidden problem with used cars, such as any outstanding finance previously written off or recorded stolen.

 

Jon Clay, identification director at HPI, said: “With almost 670,000 new drivers on the road this year, it’s often easy to rush into buying the first available car without exercising the necessary due diligence. Sadly, many new drivers are taken advantage of by unscrupulous sellers passing on used vehicles that aren’t roadworthy and could turn out to be a complete money pit or, worse, a potential danger to the driver, passengers and other road users.

“We recommend that buyers considering a used bargain conduct a comprehensive vehicle history check. Checking a car for discrepancies, such as accident data or mileage tampering, is standard in the HPI Check. By building up a comprehensive vehicle history, cross-referenced with MOT records, any discrepancies are highlighted, arming car buyers with the information and confidence they need when buying a  used car.”

 

It is recommended that an HPI Check is commissioned in addition to any valuation. HPI Checks reveal some shocking statistics that can affect the value of a car, including 2205 cars being identified as write-offs, and 109 cars flagged as stolen every single day.

 

Driving, Menopause, News

Menopause at work: Women are fearing the drive to work

With more women opening up about their varied and life-altering symptoms of menopause than ever before, one symptom that has been gaining a lot more attention in recent years is ‘menopause driving anxiety’. 

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts can reveal that Google searches for ‘menopause driving anxiety’ have skyrocketed by 200% in the last year alone, as more women are seeking advice on how to deal with this debilitating symptom. 

However, with the Department of Transport estimating that 68% of people in the UK are commuting to work by driving, many women are facing these feelings of anxiety every single day when heading to work. 

One woman spoke exclusively to Nationwide Vehicle Contracts to reveal how this problem has “changed her life” and stopped her from driving in rush hour traffic and finding alternative transport to work. 

Julie, 57, said “They don’t tell you how most symptoms of menopause can change your life, but I never expected this, to be scared behind the wheel of my own car”. 

Julie shared ‘’I live in a quiet town, where we don’t even get much traffic. But I now avoid driving in rush hour and driving any long journeys as it scares the life out of me – even the smallest thing like someone overtaking me can shake me up and I find myself not wanting to drive. 

“I’m now on HRT, but I’ve been nervous about driving now for two years, so I worry the fear won’t ever change.” 

Tips for overcoming the fear of driving

In a bid to help calm people struggling from menopausal driving anxiety when driving to and from work, experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have revealed six essential tips that could help to relieve nerves when behind the wheel. 

  • Take advanced lessons 

Menopausal women usually passed their driving test more than twenty years ago, so a refresher lesson can really help to boost confidence behind the wheel. Advanced lessons can vary from motorway lessons to simply navigating roads easily. Talking to an instructor about some of your worries could make you feel better and they can offer alternative ways to ease fear.

  • Share the journey 

Having a confident driver in the passenger seat while you’re driving can also help to ease discomfort. They may help to calmly direct you to your destination, offer encouragement whilst navigating traffic and roundabouts, or even just be a comforting ear to vent to. 

  • Avoid driving in rush hour 

If you do have a fear of driving, you may find that driving during rush hour or even in difficult weather conditions can induce more worry, so it’s best to avoid driving during these times if you work a 9-5. Instead, try to find alternative public transport routes that can make your journey easier. When you get your confidence back behind the wheel, you can always try driving at rush hour again. 

  • Prepare yourself

For anyone with driving anxiety, you should avoid driving on an empty stomach or relying on caffeine. Small things like this can increase your driving fear massively, so before driving ensure you’ve eaten breakfast to ensure your body doesn’t feel anxious before the commute. 

  • Talk to a professional

If you think your driving anxiety is caused by the menopause, it’s important to speak to your doctor. Not all driving fears can be fixed simply so seeking help from a professional can help to identify the causes and identify techniques to help you become a confident driver again. 

  • Support from loved ones

Don’t be afraid to open up about your driving anxiety to loved ones. Menopause is thankfully no longer a taboo subject and more people are opening up about their experiences with menopause driving anxiety than ever before, so you might not be the only one struggling in your inner circle. 

Driving, Sport, Transport

Veezu announces sponsorship of Pontypool United RFC

Veezu, the leading private hire firm in South Wales, is sponsoring Pontypool United RFC in a new partnership.

 

This sponsorship follows a series of partnerships Veezu has made with local groups in order to strengthen their connections and support its local communities as part of its Funded by Veezu programme.

 

Pontypool United RFC is one of the leading rugby clubs in Torfaen, welcoming more than 250 players, its teams span across under 6’s to under 16’s, youth and first team.

 

Funded by Veezu is an initiative in which local residents, charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants. It was set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

 

As the club’s official sponsor this season, Veezu will provide branded post protectors and new training tops for the squads.

 

Mark Jones, Chairman at Pontypool United RFC, said: “We are delighted to announce Veezu as sponsor and we are very grateful for their support. Looking after our club members is our number one priority, and Veezu has shown continuously how important the local community is to them.”

 

Nathan Bowles, Chief Executive Officer at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to be starting this partnership with Pontypool United, a local club that supports so many young people in the area. Being from New Inn myself, it’s especially exciting to be able to sponsor a team so close to home. I’m very much looking forward to the future of Veezu’s work with Pontypool United to see how we can continue to support the club.”