Style and Innovation at the Motor Show

Posted in Car Manufacturer, Car News, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 03/05/2010 02:54 pm by Pete Leyden

The Geneva motor show is the opportunity for the worlds car manufacturers to show off their new models for 2010 as well as give a glimpse of the future.  There is a multitude of concept cars with some actually going to end up being built and sold.  The theme has been very much angled towards not only exciting innovation but with the emphasis on being green

Some of the exciting new models and concepts are

Abarth

Exciting new Abarth

Exciting new Abarth

The Abarth Punto Evo and the Abarth 500C will be shown off at the Geneva Show, the latest two performance cars based on already popular Fiat models.

Both models will go on sale over the next few months through Abarth’s official dealer network in Europe.

The Abarth 500C, like the regular Abarth 500, comes with a sporty bodykit with larger air intakes, side skirts, a rear diffuser, pumped fenders, Abarth decals and new alloys plus the famed scorpion logo on the grille. Up back is an integrated rear diffuser and dual exhaust tips finished in chrome. The interior continues the sporty theme with new bucket seats, alloy pedals and leather trim.

Power will come from Fiat Group’s turbocharged T-Jet petrol engine, developing a peak 135 horsepower at 5,500rpm and 133 pound-feet of torque at 2,500rpm. When pressed, a sports button on the dash boosts torque to 152 pound-feet at a higher 3,000rpm.

All Abarth models also benefit from an upgraded handling pack, with larger wheels and stiffer suspension to improve dynamics. A special traction control system called Torque Control Transfer or TTC for short is also available. The system is able to split some of the engine’s torque between the front wheels and works in a similar fashion to Alfa Romeo’s Q2 system.

Alfa Romeo Giulieita

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - another great looking car

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - another great looking car

The Giulietta, which is making its debut this week at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show,as you can see this Italian car manufacturer still knows a thing or two about style.  Alfa Romeo has a history of producing stunning looking vehicles that look right from any angle, the Giulietta is a true Alfa with not only great looks but impressive specification.  If it drives as well as it looks this will indeed be a really exciting new model to be seen on the streets of the UK

Designed by the Alfa Romeo Style Center, the new Giulietta is a five-door hatchback equipped with impressive dynamic and comfort features. The Giulietta rides on an all-new platform simply titled Compact that comes fitted with a range of dynamic enhancing technologies. These include the new DNA driving mode selector, which offers Dynamic, Normal and All-Weather modes, as well as the automaker’s Q2 electronic front-wheel drive differential.

Several different versions have been developed: two Quadrifoglio Verde (Cloverleaf) models fitted with a 235 horsepower 1.75-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, two Distinctive models fitted with a 170 horsepower 2.0-liter JTDM turbodiesel engine and a Base model fitted with a 170 horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged gasoline mill.

All the engines are teamed with a six-speed manual as standard while the MultiAir and JTDM engines are available with an optional dual clutch automatic transmission.

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will go on sale in Europe this May.

BMW Active Hybrid

BMW's Hi Tech answer to fuel effciency

BMW's Hi Tech answer to fuel effciency

The all-new 2011 BMW 5-Series saloon is set to go on sale this June but before that we’ll get a preview of a future Petrol-electric hybrid version destined to go on sale next year. Picking up BMW’s ActiveHybrid nomenclature, the new ActiveHybrid 5 Concept will also be unveiled along with the normal Diesel and Petrol models

The ActiveHybrid 5 Concept features a sophisticated hybrid system consisting of a twin-turbocharged and direct injected petrol six-cylinder, an eight-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor running on lithium-ion batteries. The electric motor is rated at 54 horsepower and is connected to the engine via a special clutch. When the vehicle is coasting or braking the motor acts as a generator and helps to top up the batteries.

The set-up is similar to the one in the ActiveHybrid 7 where it’s mated to a V-8 engine. It’s claimed to improve fuel economy by as much as 10 percent and also allows electric-only driving in city traffic and comes with an autonomous engine stop-start system to further help cut fuel consumption. Additionally, some auxiliary features–like the climate control–is run off the battery rather than drawing more power from the engine.

With class leading innovation the BMW engineers have added a further refinement by integrating navigation system data into the control software that manages overall energy consumption among the engine, the motor, and the battery.

This intelligent system taks into account the type of road you are travelling upon for example,on a downhill section of road, the system might use more energy from the battery pack than usual–knowing that it would be recharged on overrun as the car passed through that section.

BMW says this “forward-looking function” can extend the car’s all-electric range by as much as 30 percent, though no mileage or total power outputs have been revealed.

More news about this vehicle will be published during the course of the show.

Volkswagen Crossgolf

A Golf but different

A Golf but different

The Crossgolf is the latest addition to the Golf family. Like the CrossPolo, the new CrossGolf is essentially a five-door hatchback with a raised ride height and a rugged all-terrain look. However, it is not based on the standard Golf but rather the slightly larger Golf Plus.

The engine lineup consists of compact turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, with outputs ranging from 105 horsepower in the base model to 160 horsepower in the top of the range. A six-speed manual comes as standard but customers can opt for Volkswagen’s class leading seven-speed DSG dual clutch transmission.

Key design elements include the unique bumpers, finished in an anthracite color and fitted with fog-lights and larger intakes. Moving to the sides, the CrossGolf also gets black wheelarch extensions, new side sills, silver side mirrors and 17 inch alloy wheels. Options include leather trim, bi-xenon headlights, a rearview camera and Volkswagen’s nifty Park Assist feature.

Will this compete with the already succesful Nissan Qashqai in the UK, only tiome will tell but most things with a VW badge tend to hold there value therefore attracting a loyal following.

Porsche Cayenne

Gas Guzzler or Gorgeous High Speed Exec

Gas Guzzler or Gorgeous High Speed Exec

Love it or hate it the Porsche Cayenne has good and bad press from the motoring journalists and Joe public alike. It’s not a true off roader and its has been seen as a real change in style for Porsche.  Once driven most people are smitten with the performance and ride quality, however many people just see it has a monsterous gas guzzler.  What do you think?

This new generation is longer and lighter than its predecessor, it is more powerful yet more fuel efficient than the model it replaces. It will also be available with a hybrid powertrain for the first time.
Though the changes appear to be subtle, the new Cayenne’s design is now more closely aligned to that of other Porsche models. The front face employs similar headlamps as the Cayman and the LEDs, tucked into the upper corners of the gaping airdam, are akin to those on the recent 911.

Along with the 48mm increase in length, the new car’s wheelbase has also been extended by 40mm, offering occupants more space and variability inside. The most significant enhancement within the interior is the center console rising up to the front with its upright selector or gearshift lever, lending a more sporting character to the driver-oriented cockpit.

From the early images it does not look radically differnet from its predecessor, however it has a die hard following who I am sure will want to get their hands on it a soon as its launched.  Look out for some potential bargain part exchanges…..but don’t forget to factor in the Road Fund licence because they are frugal on the CO2’s

Peugeot Concept ‘ 5′

Will this be a winner?

Will this be a winner?

Peugeot are showing off their latest concept vehicle Called the ‘5. This second show car will be displayed alongside the SR1 concept previously announced. Both are expected to showcase the company’s desire to be seen as company passionate about creating design led products.

Pointing the way towards the brand’s future ambitions in the large luxury vehicle segment, the ‘5′ features simple lines blended with subtle technical detailing. Designed and built to embody both elegance and precision, the almost minimalist aesthetic appears timeless and modern, albeit conservative. According to Peugeot, the exterior design ‘holds the promise of exceptional interior space, convenience and comfort’, but we have yet to see this for ourselves.

Having had a Peugeot 605 I can vouch that as a comfortable mile muncher it was as good as anything out there at the time.  In fact it was deceptively large (mine was blue and we called it the Caribbean Island) In the UK however the 605 was not particularly popular and I hope the ‘5′ doesn’t go the same way.

Measuring 4860mm long and 1880mm wide, the four-wheel drive concept is powered by Peugeot’s HYbrid4 technology, which enables a power output of 200bhp whilst returning CO² emissions of 99g/km (or zero in electric mode). Looking forward to seeing the vehicle in the flesh and seeing how it will fit in alongside the traditional large saloons such as BMW and Audi

These are just a taster of some of the exciting new vehicles being displayed at Geneva, and I will be bringing more of them to your attention over the coming weeks.  The future at last is looking better for the motor industry and some amazing new designs will end up on our streets.

If you see any exciting new vehicles let us know we are always keen to pass on Car news or stories to our readers.

 

The Electric Car Revolution is about to hit the UK!

Posted in Car Leasing, Car News, Contract Hire, Green cars and C02, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 03/03/2010 11:33 am by Pete Leyden
The Electric Car a viable alternative?

The Electric Car a viable alternative?

The constant debate about mankind’s impact on global climate change due to the amount of CO2 we produce, seems to produce so many differing opinions its hard to keep pace.  Recent polls indicate there is a growing number of us who are becoming increasingly cynical of what is causing the changes in the climate we are all being told about.  As the UK has signed up for some tough targets in reducing our CO2 the transport market is a prime target.  It is reported that car use can contribute significantly to amount of carbon we deposit into the atmosphere.

It is true there is a greater interest in low carbon vehicles with more car manufacturers building hybrids or bi fuel vehicles.  You only have to look in the motoring press to see many new electric concept vehicles ready to come to market.   Some of the market leaders are well know manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda and Lexus all produce hybrids with less well known manufacturers are making pure electric cars.

The Contract Hire and Leasing market have begun to embrace the more main stream vehicles but the less well know will take a much longer time to be fully recognised and attract favourable rentals I suspect.  Most of these vehicles can be found on the UK Leasing and Contract Hire website.

The Goverment has decided to take some radical action by launching £230 million ultra-low carbon car incentive programme .

From January 2011, motorists will be entitled to a ‘Plug-In Car Grant’ of up to £5,000* when buying an electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen fuel cell car that meets safety, reliability, performance and warranty standards set by the Office for Low Emissions Vehicles (OLEV) in consultation with industry.

Is this a U turn from the constant encouregement for the use of public transport, no its to be used in coonjunction with this policy.  Just as well because where I live we only get one bus a day, not ideal for the daily commute!

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) welcomed the announcement from OLEV that detailed how cars will qualify for the incentives and the grant amount. Also announced were the winners (London, Milton Keynes, North East England) of the Plugged-In Places scheme which saw UK cities and regions bid for investment to further the development of infrastructure required to support ultra-low carbon vehicles.

“This incentive scheme signals a significant commitment by government and industry to promote ultra-low carbon vehicles and is great news for motorists. The UK is determined to be a world-leader in developing ultra-low carbon vehicles, sustaining and creating high-skill jobs, attracting inward investment and producing cutting-edge products,” said SMMT chief executive, Paul Everitt.  “Manufacturers develop and produce new technology where demand exists. This incentive will help encourage international investment in the UK as well as reducing motorists’ CO2 emissions.”

The Plugged-In Places investment will see the installation of over 11,000 charging posts in London, Milton Keynes and North East England. There will be another opportunity, in June 2010, for additional cities and regions to bid for Plugged-In Places funding.  Already confirmed as intending to bid are the West Midlands, Cornwall, Sheffield, the Lake District, Greater Manchester, and Northern Ireland.

Since its creation in mid-2009, OLEV has worked with industry to promote the manufacture of, and infrastructure for, ultra-low carbon vehicles. The £230 million Plug-In Car Grant and £30 million Plugged-In Places scheme were initially announced in March 2009 before being formalised in Budget 2009.

I know I am old fashioned but doesn’t the majority of our electricity come from coal fired power stations which I understand are not the most efficient or indeed environmentally friendly.  I agree that in cities small electric or hybrid vehicles make sense but as a real alternative to the current petrol or diesel vehicles I think they are not yet necessarily a truly ‘green’ alternative.

As stated previously I would like to see the real environmental impact of these vehicles, to include manufacturing,shipping and overall running costs as well as what happens to them at the end of their lives.

Is it all just a cunning ploy to appear to be reducing our emissions?  Remember the great interest in LPG, how many of those do you see, even with the relatively low cost of conversion and the significant saving on fuel costs?

I would love to hear your views on this subject as I am sure everyone has an opinion.  Why not share it with the world?

 

Vauxhall to Help The Hero’s

Posted in Car Fleet, Car Leasing, Car Manufacturer, Car News, Contract Hire, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 02/26/2010 03:01 pm by Pete Leyden
Vauxhall support Help the Hero's

Vauxhall support Help the Hero's

With the conflict in Afghanistan intensifying with operation Moshtarak, the news of allied fatalities and injuries appears to be increasing on a daily basis. With so many young men and women being injured in recent conflicts Bryn and Emma Parry decided it was time to provide some practical help and created Help for Heroes. This is a charitable organisation that since its inception in 2007 and has raised millions of pounds which has been used to provide positive help to young injured service personnel.

It has been announced Vauxhall have decided to become a suppporting partner for the next two years.
Since its very beginnings in 1903, Vauxhall has a history of close partnership with the British armed forces.  In the past it provided vehicles for both the First and Second World War efforts, while today it extends significant discounts and tax free offers to serving or retired members of HM forces and their immediate family members, through its long standing military sales programme.

To raise money for Help the Heroes, Vauxhall will be hosting a series of high profile events, with the main driving force of the fundraising carried out through the all new Vauxhall VXR Power Events.  These events kick off in April, with fantastic high-adrenaline activities such as bespoke track day experiences, as well as rollercoaster and karting challenges, all culminating with a VXR Power Festival at Silverstone.

In addition, Vauxhall retailers up and down the country will be taking part in a number of fundraising activities to support the campaign.

Miss England, Katrina Hodge, who is also a serving soldier, has pledged to work closely with Vauxhall over the coming months and has kicked off the campaign at Ellesmere Port, where she accepted the keys to a brand new British built Astra in which she will attend many of the fund raising initiatives.

Bryn Parry said:  ‘When Emma and I decided to do our bit to help wounded servicemen in 2007 we had no idea so many people across the UK would decide to join us and together, create the Help for Heroes phenomenon. People have run, climbed, cycled, swum, parachuted, baked, in fact done just about anything honest and decent to raise money to support our blokes. The money raised, £40m to date, is all used to provide direct, practical support to those wounded in the service of our country. We have already spent £millions and we have a shopping list of future projects that will ensure they get the very best. We may not be able to prevent them from being hurt but we can certainly do our bit to help them get better.

“Vauxhall’s wonderful fundraising is hugely welcomed, the team should be congratulated and, on behalf of all those who the money will benefit, thanked.  Well done; Great effort!”

Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall Managing Director said: “Vauxhall is exceptionally proud to be involved with the great work carried out by Help for Heroes.  We all acknowledge the sacrifices made by the armed forces on our behalf and this association gives us the opportunity to show our support for men and women who have been wounded in conflict.  Our aim is to ask all our employees, retailers and customers to get involved and raise as much money as we can.”

Will other manufacturers follow Vauxhall’s lead and provide help and support to these brave young people who have suffered terrible injuries?

Lets hope so as every penny Help the Hero’s receives will help someone live just a little bit better.

If you want to help follow this link and see how you can make a difference.

 

Toyota is their reputation ruined?

Posted in Car Leasing, Car Manufacturer, Car News, Toyota on 02/24/2010 03:16 pm by Pete Leyden
Toyota Cars - Still Reliable?

Toyota Cars - Still Reliable?

Toyota has long been seen as one of the pinnacles of reliable car manufacture but now finds itself in the unenviable position of being in the media spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

Are they going to be able to recover from their current predicament?

Listening to the BBC news this morning Toyota’s top executives are making profound apology statements around the world with the admission that they don’t know if the current recalls have actually cured all the problems, this I would suggest is a PR companies worse nightmare.

It appears there are some real horror stories coming out of the USA, the home of litigation.  Just as well Toyota have deep pockets!  The story that I heard this morning sited a Lexus going in reverse up a freeway at 100mph and not stopping despite the best efforts of the driver.  As I have stated previously if Toyota are able to contain these issues and put a believable face on proceedings, this previously unblemished pillar of good build quality should bounce back.

If your car is subject to a Contract Hire or Leasing agreement and you are worried if your vehicle is at risk you should contact the leasing company directly, I am sure they will be able to give guidance. Alternatively check on the Toyota website by following this link

Warranty Direct, which conducted a poll on its www.reliabilityindex.co.uk website, and discovered that 76% of drivers will not view Toyota as a less reliable marque because of the recalls.

The Reliability Index is a unique database that charts the trustworthiness of thousands of used cars by taking into account each vehicle’s rate of failure, cost of repair, mileage and age.

With a long history of building reliable cars, Toyota sits high in the Reliability Index, with just 12% of its cars hitting a fault in an average year, well under the overall average of 28%.

In fact Warranty Direct rates the Corolla (2002-2007 model year) – Toyota’s most popular car – as being the most reliable motor on the road, with just 1 in 20 suffering a problem in the average year.

Warranty Direct’s Duncan McClure Fisher said: “For years Toyota has been one of the most dependable manufacturers and it will rightly continue to be seen as a reliable make by consumers.”

All we can do is watch and wait and hope no one gets seriously injured.

What do you think?

Let me have your views or experiences with Toyota now and in the past, albeit good or bad.

 

Hyundai awarded Car Maker of the year by AM Magazine

Posted in Car Leasing, Car Manufacturer, Car News, Contract Hire, Personal Contract Hire on 02/19/2010 01:22 pm by Pete Leyden

Hyundai have been awarded the prestigious Car Maker of the year award by  AM magazine.  This is indeed an accolade for a manufacturer which is now becoming an established part of motoring in the UK.  Hyundai beat off stiff competition frpm Ford, Landrover, Jaguar and Kia.

Intresting things about Hyundai you may not have known-

Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Co. has grown into the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group which was ranked as the world’s fifth largest automaker in 2007 and includes over two dozen auto-related subsidiaries and affiliates.

Employing over 75,000 people worldwide, Hyundai Motor sold 2,796,370 vehicles in 2008 in 193 countries through some 6,000 dealerships and showrooms. Operating profits for 2008 were 1.877 trillion won (£990 million).

Hyundai-Kia was named Automotive Manufacturer of the Year 2008 by Autocar magazine. In the UK, Hyundai cars emitted an average of 148g/km of CO2 in 2008, a 10 percent improvement on the previous year.

A much bigger business than many would have thought and with new models being produced a bright future in the UK awaits.

Back to the Awards

A panel of industry experts led by AM Editor Jeremy Bennett gave the accolade to Hyundai over sme leading industry rivals.

Jeremy said; “With the newly-opened factory in Eastern Europe pumping out high quality vehicles and dealers selling them at the right price to a consumer base looking for alternative motoring choices, it was only a matter of time before Hyundai entered the mainstream”.

Presenting the award, Sky News Today presenter Dermot Murnaghan said; “It has been an amazing year for Hyundai, with a model mix that allowed dealers to take full advantage of the Government scrappage scheme. This is allied to a consistent message and support to its dealers, which had provided the brand with a fantastic start to 2010”.

Hyundai’s UK managing director Tony Whitehorn said; “We’re delighted to win Carmaker of the Year. We have doubled sales and strengthened our retail network. 2010 is set to be a very promising year for us and this award proves we are a brand that people are noticing.”

He continued to say; “We are about to launch our new ix35, which is set to become our flagship model in the UK which will further increase awareness of our brand. Everyone in the company has worked very hard the last few years in making our brand appeal to a wider audience”.

If you want to Contract Hire or Lease one of the Hyundai range you will find some of the UK’s best offers at UK leasing and contract hire, as a niche player they achieve good residual values that in turn gives them a competitive rental.

Why not grab yourself a bargain? Look at some of the great offers on uk leasing and contract hire on the following

Hyundai i10

Hyundai i20

Hyundai i30

Hyundai Matrix

Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai ix35

 

Volkswagen Polo GTi – Ice Cool Hatch

Posted in Car Leasing, Car News, Contract Hire, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 02/18/2010 01:25 pm by Pete Leyden
VW New Hot hatch

VW New Hot hatch

The iconic ‘Hot’ hatches all but died out in the early 1990’s predominantly because of the difficulty in obtaining insurance.  How ever in the last few years we have seen a resurgence of these exciting models with such vehicles as the Ford Focus RS , Seat Leon Cupra R , Audi A3 quattro,Renault Twingo Renaultsport 133 Cup, Fiat 500 Abarth,Mitsubishi Ralliart, Suzuki Swift Sport and Renault Megane Renaultsport 250 cup to name a few.

These types of vehicle have been popular on personal contract hire as they tend to be sort after as used cars therefore retaining strong residual values, which directly helps to keep the rental low.  Great examples of personal contract hire can be found at UK Leasing and Contract hire

Now the diminutive VW  Polo has been given a new lease of life with the launch of the new Polo Gti.  The original version of a hot Polo was launched in 1986 and was called the G40 Coupe, this model was based on a fast revving, low kerb weight,and with sharpened responses.

Fast forward 24 years and the new Polo GTI bears similarities with the G40.  At its heart is a 1.4-litre TSI engine that uses a supercharger from idle through to 3,000 rpm at which point the turbocharger cuts in to provide boost.  The result is an output of 180 PS at 6,200 rpm and 184 lbs ft of torque from 2,000 rpm which, when aligned with a 1,184 kg kerbweight, allows the Polo GTI to accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 142 mph.

Despite a keen focus on performance, the new Polo GTI is capable of delivering 47 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting just 139 g/km of CO2.

The TSI engine is linked to a compact seven-speed, twin-clutch DSG gearbox that channels drive through the front axle.  In addition, the Polo GTI is fitted with the XDS differential, an electronic cross-axle traction control system for improved traction and handling.  The XDS system is a functional extension of the electronic limited slip differential (EDL) which is a part of the standard ESP system.

In order to sharpen responses, the Polo GTI is fitted with new springs and dampers which results in a 15 mm lower ride height than the conventional Polo.

Like its Golf GTI sibling, the Polo GTI features significant aesthetic changes.  A new front bumper featuring a deep airdam is joined by a honeycombe grille element with horizontal red strips and a simple GTI badge.  New headlight units complete with the option of LED running lights lend the Polo GTI an imposing new look.

Further back, a subtle sill extension wraps around the lower edge of the body while at the back a new rear bumper features a small diffuser and a pair of chrome-tipped exhausts.  The Polo badge is replaced by a simple ‘GTI’ version.

Finally, a set of 17-inch wheels identical to those fitted to the Golf GTI are fitted along with a set of red brake callipers.

The changes continue inside the Polo GTI with revised dials, a new, flat-bottomed GTI steering wheel complete with small gearshift paddles and contrasting red stitching, aluminium pedals and new, heavily bolstered front sports seats finished in tartan trim.  Subtle gloss black trim covers the centre console while the headlining is now finished in black.

It’s good to see manufacturers like Volkswagen producing vehicles that will be fun to drive, whilst providing good fuel consumption and acceptable CO2 emissions.  I for one will be looking forward to getting behind the wheel of one when they are launched in the summer

 

Can Superb Become Even Better?

Posted in Car Fleet, Car Leasing, Car News, Contract Hire on 02/18/2010 11:56 am by Pete Leyden
Now with the latest Common Rail Diesel Engine

Now with the latest Common Rail Diesel Engine

Well Skoda think that something called Superb can even better!

How? By fitting this already popular vehicle with the latest Common Rail Diesel engine…..Don’t go it gets better!

The engine is a 2.oTDI CR giving out an impressive 140Bhp, this was the type of performance from a group one rally car in the late 70,s early 80’s and they were quick.

By incorporating the very latest Common Rail diesel technology, this new model is even more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly than the 2.0 TDI PD 140bhp it replaces. Combined fuel consumption has improved by 4.4mpg and is now an outstanding 52.3mpg, while CO2 emissions have been reduced by 12g/km to just 143g/km.* The standard diesel particulate filter (DPF) also ensures compliance with the latest EU5 emissions regulations.

Check with your dealer whether there are any special use instructions regarding the DPF, they are not always suitable for low mileage or short stop start journeys.  You may also want to check with your Contract Hire or Leasing provider whether they have any advice for you.

Skoda have made a real comeback in the UK over the past few years and are a real alternative to the main company car manufacturers.  With relative low acquisition prices and strong residual values they can be great value on contract hire.  Some of the best Contract Hire rentals look at UK Leasing and Contract Hire.

For those of you who like a few facts and figures check these out….

Škoda UK increased its market share in 2009 to 1.9% with 37,253 sales, higher than 2008.
■Škoda Auto sold a record of over 684,000 cars in 2009, an increase of 1% over 2008.
■Škoda Yeti has been named Best Family Car in the 2009 Top GearAwards.
■The new Škoda Superb Estate is Top Gear’s Best Luxury Car 2009.
■Škoda is the winner of Auto Express‘ Driver Power award 2009 for customer satisfaction.
■Škoda is the Best Manufacturer in the 2009 Auto Express Driver Power survey.
■Škoda has been in the top five in the JD Power Survey of Customer Satisfaction for the past 14 years.
■The Škoda Superb is Auto Express’ ‘Best Family Car 2009’.
■The Škoda Superb is What Diesel? ‘Best Large Car’.

Looking for a Fleet or Company car, maybe a car on a personal contract hire agreement?

Why not take a closer look at the Skoda range you may just be pleasantly surprised.  If you do why not let me know what you thought, if you already have a Skoda let me have your experiences!

 

Car Crime – What happens if my Contract Hire Car is stolen

Posted in Business Contract Hire, Business User cars, Car Fleet, Car Leasing, Car Leasing Brokers, Car News, Company Cars, Contract Hire, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 02/12/2010 01:46 pm by Pete Leyden
Car Theft

Contract Hire Users check you policy

A few years ago we all experienced a huge increase in vehicle theft’ to the point some makes and models became imposible to ensure, remember the Ford XR3 and how that disappeared into the history books.  Well even in this world of sophisticated alarms, imobilisers and a CCTV camera pointing at you wherever you go, cars are still going missing.

I have a car on Contract Hire won’t matter to me, will it?

The impact of having your car stolen is not only the inconvenience but the financial burden it can present.  If your car is subject to a Contract Hire or Leasing agreement you should always make sure your cover is suitable for the leasing agreement.  Many people fail to read the small print in their insurance policies and find that as the vehicle is being used for business use it’s not covered.  Got a spare £20,000 kicking around?

Even if you are covered for business use most companies will only pay out to the market value which is not always the same as the Contract Hire companies early termination charge.  It pays to look at taking Gap Cover which is an additional insurance cover that pays the difference between the main insurers settlement and the leasing companies termination figure.  This is relatively inexpensive and can be obtained through most advertisers on UK Leasing and Contract Hire, the home of some of the best independant car and van leasing brokers in the UK.

If you vehicle is your ‘office’ you will need to ensure you have suffcient cover for any items left in the car like your Laptop or Blackberry, again read the small print in the policy, it will almost certainly require these items are locked away out of sight.  Ignore this at your peril!

How are they doing it these days?

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) have looked into car theft and come up with the following;

Peter Rodger, IAM Chief Examiner, said: “It seems obvious, but we’d still remind drivers, where possible, to park in a well lit, busy area with valuables out of view – and make sure your car has both an alarm and an immobiliser.

“Never underestimate the determination of some thieves: don’t leave your car keys in a bowl or on a rack by the door – one of the most common methods of stealing a car is using a pole to reach through the letterbox to get the keys,” said Mr Rodger.

If you have a garage, now’s the time to clear out the ski boots and rolls of old carpet and make way for the thing it was built for – your car – although cars have got bigger over the years, meaning most of us have to park outside which affects both road safety and car security.

More advice on avoiding car crime.

•Try to use a car park with the ‘ParkMark’ logo which means it has achieved basic standards of security – but remember that you have no consumer rights in a car park and the car park operator has no legal responsibility whatsoever to protect your car.
•Thieves will break into homes to get the keys to steal a car. If your car is high value, check the security of your home.
•Don’t leave the keys in the ignition when filling up your car with fuel or warming it up – remember your insurance could be invalidated if you do and your car is stolen.
•Don’t leave a satnav fitting on display, and rub off any ring left on the windscreen by the suction pad – a thief will smash the window and go straight to the glove compartment to find it.
•Never store your car’s documents within it and keep the glove box empty, leaving it open to make it clear there isn’t anything inside.
•Consider fitting a vehicle tracking device to help track and find your car if it gets stolen.
Mr Rodger added: “The value of property stolen from your car may be relatively low, but the cost of repair to the car will be considerably more, not to mention the inconvenience, so vigilance and common sense could save you money and hassle.”

So are there better and worse areas for car theft?

Yes there are, the IAM obtained data relating to high and low instances of car theft and crime and these are listed below.

The 10 most dangerous places for theft were:

1 Hull
2 Nottingham
3 Bradford
4 Manchester
5 Doncaster
6 London
7 Northampton
8 Sheffield
9 Oldham
10 Reading

The 10 safest places were:

1 Swindon
2 Cheltenham
3 Solihull
4 Southampton
5 Bangor
6 Norwich
7 Exeter
8 Maidstone
9 Preston
10 Lincoln

Source: Endsleigh Insurance

Sobering thoughts indeed, if you would like to discuss any insurance issues you can get some great advice from UK Leasing and Contract Hire’s independant insurance brokers.

 

Audi A1 The New Dimunitive Offering

Posted in Car Leasing, Car Leasing Brokers, Car Manufacturer, Car News, Contract Hire, Green cars and C02, Personal Contract Hire, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 02/10/2010 02:08 pm by Pete Leyden

Audi are the latest manufacturer to announce the launch of a small car with good ‘green’ credentials in the shape of the A1. This sector of the market is certainly hotting up with most major manufacturers having a ’super mini’ sized car.  These are all aimed at those of us who want value, a good driving experience, the prestige of a strong brand, good fuel economy and low running costs.

All of these new models will be in a 3 door format and feature a range of engines,

1.2 TFSI petrol offering 86PS, 160Nm, 55.4mpg, CO2 119g/km*

1.4 TFSI petrol offering 122PS, 200Nm, 55.4mpg, CO2 119g/km*

1.6 TDI diesel offering 105PS, 250Nm, 72.4mpg, CO2 102g/km*

As you would expect from Audi the level of refinement is good standard specification includes alloy wheels, air conditioning, single CD audio system with MP3 compatibility, ESP with latest differential lock system.

When can I see it and even buy it?

The A1 is set to make its World debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and will be available to order in the UK from May for late 2010 deliveries.

The diesel version I suspect will be a popular choice combining low CO2 emissions with fantastic fuel economy, Audi in their press release stated ”Already renowned for creating the premium sector’s most fuel-efficient car – the A3 1.6-litre TDI – the 105PS 1.6-litre diesel is the third engine option, and via a five-speed manual gearbox uses its impressive 250Nm torque output to power the A1 to 62mph in 10.8 seconds and on to a 116mph top speed, while retaining the potential to achieve 72.4mpg economy with emissions of 102g/km*.” (*Prelimenary figures)

How much of my hard earned cash will I need?

Whilst the pricing has not yet been finalised it is anticapeted the entry model will start at around £13,000.  I suspect you will see some great Contract Hire and Leasing deals come out as Audi vehicles have always been seen favourably by most Contract Hire companies. Keep an eye on UK Leasing and Contract Hire.Com as some of the best independant Car Leasing Brokers advertise their offers here, and for sure you will see some great offers on the A1 in the coming months.

So with Audi Cars already having some of the most popular vehicles like the Audi A3, Audi A4 Audi A6 I am sure this new entry will be a huge success.

What do you think, a winner or just another in the growing range of small City Cars?

Audi A1 Small but beatifully formed

Audi A1 Small but beatifully formed

Audi A1 Stylish New Model to the Audi Range

Audi A1 Stylish New Model to the Audi Range

 

Ferrari F458 – A Good Investment!

Posted in Business Contract Hire, Car Leasing, Car Leasing Brokers, Car Manufacturer, Car News, Contract Hire, Green cars and C02, UK Leasing and Contract Hire on 02/10/2010 01:16 pm by Pete Leyden

In these difficult times there are still people who can afford to buy prestige and exotic cars, and even make money out of it.  The saying goes ‘money goes to money and this seems to be born out by people paying over £25,000 to jump the three year waiting list for a Ferrari F458 Italia, and this on a car already costing £170,000.

This latest revelation comes from Glass’s the UK’s well respected supplier of vehicles values and automotive intelligence.  The Ferrari 458 is due to start being delivered to the lucky few later in the year, and clearly those with a large degree of disposable income want to get their hands on one as soon as possible.

“Clearly the recession hasn’t diminished buyers’ interest in this stunning new model,” comments Richard Crosthwaite, Prestige Car Editor at Glass’s.  “It’s not unusual for the first examples of such exclusive sports cars to change hands for inflated prices before the first owners take delivery, but the premium required to bag one of the early 458s is exceptionally high – a reflection of just how desirable it is.

“Ferrari has a long track record of carefully controlling availability – and, therefore, used values – of its smaller models.  The 458 is likely to remain in short supply for some time, which will keep it in favour with the fashion-conscious supercar buyer and help to protect residual values.”

Strange you don’t see the same level of speculation around all the new ‘Green’ car launches we have seen in 2009 / 2010, maybe we just don’t want to save the planet!

Don’t want to wait why not try a stunning Ferrari F430 Coupe instead and at only £3600 + vat per month.  Where can I find this deal go to UKleasingandcontracthire.com where the best Leasing and Contract Hire deals can be found!!!

Is this a better return than the bank?

Is this a better return than the bank?

 
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