Car Dealer Magazine: Issue 176

FOUNDER

James Baggott james@thebaize.com

Twitter: @CarDealerEd

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

James Batchelor james.batchelor@blackballmedia.co.uk

@JRRBatchelor

CHIEF SUB-EDITOR

John Bowman john@blackballmedia.co.uk

STAFF WRITER

Jack Williams jack.williams@blackballmedia.co.uk

MULTIMEDIA MANAGER

Jon Reay jon@blackballmedia.co.uk

@JonReay

HEAD OF DESIGN

Graeme Windell graeme@blackballmedia.co.uk

@graemewindell

CONTRIBUTORS

Jack Evans, Nigel Swan, Ted Welford

FINANCE MANAGER

Kate Gordon kate@blackballmedia.co.uk

WELCOME.

So, they’ve spoken. Car dealers across the UK have told us exactly what they think of the manufacturers they represent and the suppliers with whom they do business. And while they were in the mood to share their views, they told us which are the best cars to have been launched over the past 12 months.

Car Dealer Power has been running for more than 10 years now. It’s always a highlight of my year, and the reason is simple. We put dealers in the enviable position of being judge, jury and executioner – the Car Dealer team just provides the mechanism to name and shame.

The top three car manufacturers were separated by fewer than three percentage points – it’s probably the tightest finish in the history of running these awards, and shows exactly which carmakers are getting it right for their dealers. Moreover, it’s fair to say that those relationships between the brands and their retailers have never been so important if the past two years of Covid shutdowns, strained new car supply and frenzied used car sales are anything to go by.

James Batchelor and James Baggott were looked after wonderfully by staff at Sytner’s JLR showroom in Sunbury during filming for this year’s Car Dealer Power

SALES MANAGER

Kevin Day kev@blackballmedia.co.uk

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Michelle

michelle@blackballmedia.co.uk

@cardealermich

You can read exactly who won what on pages 12-15 of this magazine, but I also urge you to watch the video we created. It’s on our YouTube channel, and when it was posted, dealers, car manufacturer representatives and, of course, the suppliers were all watching it live. We received a number of tweets and messages from the victors all celebrating their award triumphs, which showed exactly what winning a Car Dealer Power trophy or being highly commended means.

The video itself was a joy to be involved with as well. My thanks go to Sytner’s mightily impressive Jaguar Land Rover showroom staff in Sunbury, who were so incredibly hospitable to every annoying whim that we had – especially with regard to the gallons of high-grade coffee that James Baggott drank. The awards video was artfully directed, filmed and edited by Nigel Swan and Jon Reay, proving – and if I may be a little proud for a moment – that Car Dealer makes the best videos in the motor trade publishing industry.

This issue isn’t just about Car Dealer Power, though. We’ve got the full lowdown on Stellantis’s brutal cuts to its network, and we detail the plans that bosses have to make its mainstream brands deliver for its dealers, plus there’s major new car news, some super interviews and a whole lot more. I hope you enjoy it.

JAMES BATCHELOR Associate editor

The top three car manufacturers were separated by fewer than three percentage points.

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CONTENTS

FILE

•

STELLANTIS TO AXE 138 UK DEALERS AS IT SEEKS TO STREAMLINE ITS BUSINESS

by James Batchelor

@JRRBatchelor

Stellantis has rubber-stamped plans to axe 138 dealerships as part of wider plans to streamline its business amid a drastic shake-up in management.

In a media call on October 17, Stellantis UK group boss Paul Willcox and network development director Lee Titchner revealed ‘significant’ restructuring plans for Stellantis’s UK operations.

It includes senior management changes, simplification of dealers’ business models and a refreshed dealer network to encompass multi-franchising.

A key component of the changes involves a major new focus on customer experience.

In May 2021, dealers were put on a two-year notice period. Now the full scale of the restructure has been revealed, with 138 dealerships disappearing by May 2023 – and most of them are losing their franchises as a result of offering poor customer service. What’s more, Stellantis admitted there was no ‘endpoint goal’ to the eventual size of the network.

‘The impact of the 138 drop takes the investor count to 176,’ Titchner said.

‘We don’t have an endpoint goal. What we need is a mutual dependency – a commitment to customer experience and the drive to simplification.

‘That doesn’t mean we have an endpoint in sight with regard to the number of investors. It clearly needs to continue to reduce, but I think we can do that in a pragmatic way.’

‘SIMPLIFICATION’

Titchner explained that the coming together of ‘different businesses’ revealed differences in how brands partnered with new dealers, and now the company – which represents Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Abarth, Jeep, DS Automobiles and Alfa Romeo among others –desires ‘simplification’ in the way it does business.

‘We need one common strategy for Stellantis, and the main reason for that is we need to continue to drive simplification – one of the massive things for us moving forwards is to be able to have mutual dependency,’ he said.

‘What I mean by that is we need to be important to retail partners, and they also need to have the scale to be as important to us, too.

‘The only way to do that is to drive down our investor [dealer] count.’

He added: ‘We will continue to revisit our plan to drive that down further to consolidate the investors even more.

‘We need to be in a position where we’re talking about all the brands to our investors and that we don’t have specialists in one or two brands.

‘The aim is to have 20 per cent market share [car and van] by 2025 – we want to go out

THE media call also confirmed that Stellantis will continue to invest in digital elements of the customer journey and push an ‘omni-channel’ approach.

But UK group MD Paul Willcox ruled out – in the short term at least – turning some of its brands to purely online sales. ‘We don’t see a future without physical representation of the brands – we will always have retail partners.

‘But the scale of those partners and how we manage that obviously in five years’ time may be completely different.

‘Our expectation is we want to drive more engagement digitally, because that’s the way consumers are engaging with brands these days.

‘But the automotive industry is a little bit behind them and it’s become much more progressive.

‘We’re investing heavily as a group, both globally and regionally, in terms of developing these tools.’

He added: ‘I think it would be a big mistake to say we’re going to close our showrooms and we’re going online.

‘That would be too much of a revolution and I’m not the man to take that level of risk!’

customer service cited in most cases

It’s all part of major ‘simplification’ plans

• But despite cuts, dealers are still hugely important, says boss

‘WE WILL ALWAYS HAVE DEALERS’

and talk to our partners about the opportunity to have 20 per cent of the market, which is a compelling commercial proposal.’

Part of that will involve multi-franchising.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

‘The way we will operate is brand-first,’ said Titchner.

‘What that means is that customers will buy from the brand [brands within Stellantis] and we will use the machine of Stellantis to drive the quality of customer experience.

‘One of the ways we will do this is to go multi-franchising – enabling our partners to have that one brand on each site, to drive that throughput and commerciality, but also to drive the customer experience.

‘What that doesn’t mean is that we will provide derogation of any of the brand values.

‘In driving that multi-franchising format, we will always deliver on brand expectation. You will never see one of our brands tucked into the corner – all of the branding will be done properly.’

During the call, it was revealed that Stellantis is also planning on having a handful of dealers that offer all its brands – called ‘Stellantis Houses’ internally.

Titchner said it wasn’t a ‘pre-requisite’ for dealers to be multi-franchise, or even a strategy to have Stellantis Houses, ‘but where the opportunity exists, we will explore it. There won’t be many of them, but they will exist’.

Willcox, who became Stellantis’s UK boss in June, said the firm is creating a Premium Brand division as well, to be headed up by current Peugeot MD Julie David. It will consist of Alfa Romeo and DS Automobiles, as it embraces the agency sales concept from next year.

Willcox said: ‘The new division will support the growth and the development of those brands. We need a strong elevation in terms of the customer journey and improving the customer experience.’

‘FRICTIONLESS’ OPERATION

Along with simplifying its dealer network, Stellantis will also streamline its operational structure in the UK to create a ‘frictionless relationship’ with its dealers.

‘We are significantly streamlining our interface with the network for our mainstream brands – Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat and Abarth, and Jeep,’ explained Willcox.

‘We’re going to manage them with a new centralised operational function.

‘We want to take advantage of the scale and diversity of the brands, but also we want to streamline. We want to create a frictionless relationship with our partners. We’re going to manage the relationship with our retailer partners across brands, from sales, aftersales, quality of the customer experience and from a network development perspective.

‘We’re going to create a regional structure that will drive quicker decision-making.

‘It will create an environment where there’s common ownership of the objectives and the challenges that we face, and we strongly believe that will deliver a single point of contact and ownership of the issues that our retailers face.’

SWEEPING CHANGES AS MANAGEMENT SHAKE-UP UNVEILED

Stellantis UK has carried out a major management shake-up, as it seeks to streamline relationships with its dealers.

Part of it involves the creation of a new Network Operations department.

The move will ‘create a structure that integrates the multiple retailer contact points, simplifies policies and procedures, and improves communication whilst maintaining the integrity of the respective brands’, Stellantis said.

Along with pushing Alfa Romeo and DS Automobiles down the agency route from summer 2023, Stellantis will also create a new Premium Brand division consisting of the two firms, which will ‘support elevation of the customer experience’ so the ‘demands of these customers can be met more effectively’, it said.

Heading up the Premium Brand division will be current Peugeot UK boss Julie David.

Meanwhile, Stellantis’s mainstream brands – comprising Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat and Abarth, Jeep and Vauxhall – will remain as distinct organisations.

Current Vauxhall marketing director Adam Wood will move to head up Peugeot.

In his place, current interim Vauxhall boss James Taylor will formally take up the reins as managing director for the British brand.

DS Automobiles boss Jules Tilstone will move to Jeep as its MD, while current Alfa Romeo and Jeep boss Damien Dally will move to become Fiat and Abarth MD.

Fiat and Abarth’s current boss, Greg Taylor, will move to lead Citroen UK.

Network Operations will unite sales and vehicle flow functions, and bring in a ‘multi-brand regional structure’ for the mainstream brands.

Its aim is to ‘reduce complexity, simplify programmes and policies, and increase the standard and consistency of communication with our retailer partners’, said Stellantis.

It will be headed up by current Citroen UK MD Eurig Druce.

Other management appointments include Stephanie Howson as the new customer experience director, Richard Chamberlain as LCV business director, and Nick Richards as B2B director. The new used vehicles boss will be announced at a later date.

All appointments are effective from January 1, 2023. Paul Willcox, UK group managing director, said: ‘Our new management structure for our UK operations prepares us for the future and leverages our core strengths.’

The Polestar 3 is being touted as the firm’s next best-seller.

James Batchelor takes a deep dive into the electric high-rider.

Aerodynamics

The Polestar 3 features clever aerodynamics designed to reduce air turbulence at the front and back of the car – drag being the enemy of every electric car. At the front, the bonnet features a wing that channels air over the bonnet instead of it hitting the car’s bluff nose. Meanwhile, at the rear, a spoiler does a similar channelling function. Little winglets at the corner of the bumpers help to push air away from the rear end.

Performance

At launch, only a ‘long-range dual-motor’ variant will be available. The twin electric motors, one on each axle to give four-wheel drive, will bring just over 480bhp and 840Nm of torque, helping to propel the electric SUV from zero to 60mph in just under five seconds and on to a top speed of 130mph. An optional £5,600 Performance Pack extracts 510bhp and 910Nm from the twin motors, slashing around 0.3 seconds off the 0-60mph acceleration time. The pack also adds a sportier tune to the standard-fit air suspension, unique 22-inch forged alloys plus gold exterior and interior detailing.

Safety

The 3 features Volvo’s next-generation safety equipment, which includes clever interior radar sensors and – for the outside – five radar modules, five external cameras and 12 external ultrasonic sensors to support a suite of advanced safety features. Available later in 2023, an optional Pilot Pack with LiDAR will ‘help prepare the car for autonomous driving’, says Polestar.

Design

While the Polestar 1 and 2 were essentially derived from Volvo concept cars, the 3 is the first car Polestar has designed itself. It features sleeker front-end styling with slimmed-down headlights and no visible grille.

The roofline slopes downwards to a rear end that’s more estate car-like in size and design than an SUV’s.

Practicality

With the 3 being based on a new platform designed for electric cars, there’s no transmission tunnel like there is in the Polestar 2. It means plenty of rear space despite the sloping roofline, with legroom being very impressive.

It’s strictly a five-seater, meaning there’s a decent-sized boot – 484 litres, to be precise. Meanwhile, a ‘frunk’ features an additional 35 litres of space, which is perfect for storing charging cables. At the front, though, while six-footers will have no problems getting comfortable, thanks to the high dash and sloping windscreen, it doesn’t feel spacious like a traditional SUV.

Interior

On the inside, the 3 gets a similarly distinctive look. Polestar says the 3 features an uplift in ‘luxury tactility’ and there’s an assortment of animal welfare-certified leather and wool materials used. Just like the Polestar 2, the 3 uses Google Android OS for the infotainment system via a large 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen. Over-the-air updates are also included, meaning software can be upgraded seamlessly without the car having to visit a dealer.

More Polestar 3 models being considered

POLESTAR could add further variants to the Polestar 3 range, including sportier and off-road versions.

The Swedish performance brand chose to debut the new SUV as a long-range dual-motor with a Performance Pack at the car’s world reveal.

Inevitably, the new model will follow the Polestar 2 in being offered with cheaper, singlemotor versions with lower electric ranges.

However, Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath hinted that the firm is considering widening the range even further over the next couple of years.

‘We know already that the Polestar 3 is a very capable off-roader and we will look to explore every option,’ he told journalists.

The Polestar 3, when equipped with the Performance Pack, already features 510bhp and 910Nm of torque, so a hotter version could likely deliver closer to 600bhp, taking the Swedish SUV into Porsche Taycan territory.

Battery

The dual-motor long-range Polestar 3 is powered by a 400-volt 111kWh battery pack that can be rapid-charged at up to speeds of 250kW and has an 11kW AC charging speed. Once the 3 is fully topped up, a range of up to 379 miles (WLTP tested) is possible, says Polestar, and a heat pump – which can keep the battery running at an optimum temperature in colder conditions –is standard equipment. Polestar is also equipping the 3 with bi-directional charging, allowing the car to offer vehicle-to-grid capability.

A more off-road-inspired version will be a new departure for Polestar. Up to now, it has focused on ultra-modern styling for cars designed to be driven on the road. An off-road-biased Polestar 3, though, would move the brand closer to its sister firm, Volvo.

Let’s drive… great customer outcomes

Today, much emphasis is placed on treating motor finance customers fairly. At Startline, we aim to go several steps beyond this.

As a flexible lender, we view applicants as not just boxes on a scorecard but as people, so a personalised approach is very much integral into our thinking. Our processes – in showroom and online – are designed to be easy, fast, fair and friendly. Decisions are made in a matter of moments, our rates and conditions are competitive and, once someone becomes a Startline customer, we provide an outstanding level of in-life support.

We recognise that motor finance is an essential element of car buying and aim to support our partners in delivering the best possible experience. Together, we can drive great customer outcomes.

AGENCY SALES

BMW BOSS BELIEVES

2030 BAN WILL CAUSE ‘SELF-INFLICTED’ WOUNDS TO UK CAR INDUSTRY

BMW boss Oliver Zipse thinks the government has caused ‘self-inflicted’ wounds to the UK car industry by moving too fast with its EV ambitions.

The chairman of the board of management for BMW issued a warning to ministers that plans to ban sales of combustion-engined cars by 2030 were too soon.

In an interview with Car Dealer at the launch of the new electric BMW i7, Zipse said the government’s decision will hurt the car industry supply network as the car market and UK production shrinks.

He said: ‘I am warning the British government that it’s too early to end the combustion engine.

‘It will lead to a shrinking of the industry and [suppliers will] leave the island.

‘This is completely self-inflicted, that’s my take.

‘To have a country without charging infrastructure, to think you can do only electric cars, is a dangerous thing.’

HOME OF THE MINI

However, the BMW boss committed to UK manufacturing and said Oxford will continue to be the ‘home of Mini’ in the future.

Zipse’s comments came just a few days after the car manufacturer revealed that production of the electric Mini will move from the UK to China.

Despite this blow, Zipse – a former plant manager at Mini’s Cowley factory – said BMW’s commitment to the UK ‘remains the same’.

‘Nothing is changing,’ he said.

‘Oxford will stay the home of Mini. Hams Hall will produce combustion engines for the world for quite a long time, and Goodwood is being expanded, so actually nothing has really changed.

‘But of course we have product cycles that go up and down, but Cowley stays the home of Mini.’

Mini is set to become a fully electric brand by 2030.

While it was not confirmed that production of electric Minis will also continue at Oxford at that point, a BMW spokesman said that it was committed to ‘Oxford being Mini’s home’.

Zipse added: ‘Why would things change?

‘We have the workforce we need, the next generation of Minis is about to be launched and we have a completely intact supply network there.

‘There were no changes after Brexit, we adapted to it and we continue to do so.’

OLIVER ZIPSE also spoke about the importance of car dealers in a future of agency sales for the brand.

‘I don’t know any concepts where you can forfeit dealerships,’ said Zipse.

‘There’s thousands of dealers worldwide. It would be suicide if you started doing that yourself.’

However, Zipse said it was crucial that car manufacturers regained control of pricing and agency sales would allow BMW to do that.

He said: ‘I think the car industry has been the only one who didn’t have absolute price control.

‘I don’t know of any other business who does not have absolute price control, at least not for high-value goods.

‘The auto industry was the only one where dealers against dealers were fighting about prices – the same brand, same people – so there was some self-correction necessary.’

Zipse said BMW dealers will act as agents in the future, being paid a ‘profitable margin’ that is fixed for each car sale.

‘Of course, that is incentivised, if he does more of it,’ he added.

‘And if the dealer thinks that it’s a profitable arrangement, which works in many, many other industries very well, I think we have a very good chance to regain the data from customers and the power for pricing.

‘But that is not the OEMs doing retail. That’s not what it is. The last retail arm will always be a dealer, of course.’

The government has been warned over EV ambitions. James Baggott reports.

WHO WON WHAT IN THIS YEAR’S AWARDS

Presented by James Baggott and James Batchelor, this year’s Car Dealer Power took place on October 12, seeing manufacturers and suppliers rated and slated.

The winners of this year’s Car Dealer Power have been announced in a special awards video.

The results revealed the best car manufacturer to represent and the best car dealer suppliers to do business with. Also in the special video, hosted by editor-in-chief James Baggott and associate editor James Batchelor, the car dealers’ Car of the Year was named.

We quizzed dealers anonymously about what they really think about their car manufacturer partners and asked them to rate them in 13 categories.

They also voted for their favourite motor trade suppliers, providing citations as to which they liked to work with the most.

South Korean car firm Kia made it three for three with its third win in a row in the manufacturer category.

The car manufacturer topped our survey, narrowly beating sister firm Hyundai into second place with impressive scores across the categories, while Suzuki came third.

James Baggott, editor-in-chief of Car Dealer, said: ‘Huge congratulations to all our winners and highly commended firms – a place in these awards is not to be sniffed at and is a direct result of your hard work with your car dealer partners.’

Car dealers also had their say on what they thought was the best car of the past 12 months. And the winner was… the Range Rover!

Our Car of the Year award is very different from similar titled awards given by other motoring magazines, as this one is voted for by car dealers – and regardless of which brands they represent.

This year, Car Dealer Power survey respondents voted overwhelmingly for the Range Rover.

Runner-up was the Nissan Ariya, while taking the other highly commended place was the Dacia Jogger.

Congratulations to all on their thoroughly deserved gongs.

James Batchelor and James Baggott hosted this year’s Car Dealer Power event

Perfect Placement divisional director Dan Unstead

MANUFACTURER

Online

Autoguard Warranties

Product

made it a hattrick in this year’s

Dealer Power survey with its third manufacturer win in a

The gap between first and second place narrowed considerably for 2022, though, with it taking top spot by just under two per cent, while last year Kia was 10 percentage points ahead of the secondplaced firm.

Paul Philpott, president and CEO of Kia UK, said: ‘The positive working relationship we have with our dealer partners is paramount to our shared success, so earning recognition and winning awards is very rewarding.

‘Our partnership with our dealers is critical for our future plans.’

On this page, you can view all the manufacturers that received the minimum number of responses (10) to be included in the survey.

Manufacturers that didn’t receive the minimum number of responses weren’t included.

in each category were taken into account to give manufacturers their overall rating to one decimal point.

Manufacturers

WHERE DID YOUR CAR MANUFACTURER RANK THIS YEAR?

FINANCE OFFERS

WARRANTY

BRAND AWARENESS ACCESSIBLE

NEW CAR SUPPLY

USED CAR SUPPLY/SCHEME

Click here to see the coverage of this year’s awards

ONLINE OFFERING

FORWARD PLANNING

BONUS ROI

‘We’ve got this big reset moment for the brand’

Imagine a business known for years for selling a particular product suddenly changing and going in a completely different direction.

Like McDonald’s deciding to no longer sell its 99p cheeseburger (sorry, £1.19 – damn you, inflation) and moving to fine dining. Baffling, right?

Well, that’s exactly what’s happening with Smart. The Smart car has become synonymous for its dinky size, meaning its owners can cheekily park almost wherever they like. But now all that is changing as Smart adapts and returns with a bang.

That ‘bang’ is an SUV. Yes, another SUV. And one that’s not particularly small or clever – on paper at least – and at 4.27m in length, it’s larger than a Nissan Juke. So we’re not getting off to a great start, and it doesn’t improve when you hear this new electric SUV is called the #1 (pronounced ‘hashtag one’).

Originally Daimler’s baby, since 2019 Smart has been a joint venture that comes from a 50:50 partnership between Daimler – now known as MercedesBenz Group – and Chinese automotive giant Geely (owner of Volvo and Lotus). The #1 is its first car – an electric SUV capable of up to 272 miles on a charge – and one that’s been designed by the Germans and engineered and built by the Chinese.

It’s set to launch in the third quarter of 2023, with the UK one of the most important new markets, and at the helm of Smart’s new UK team is David Browne. Formerly of Jaguar Land Rover, where he was heavily involved with the launch of Jaguar’s first EV, the I-Pace, Browne tells us it was this car that got him interested in Smart’s reinvention. For context, Smart has sold purely EVs since 2019, and that won’t be reversed.

‘We’ve got this big reset for the brand and it gives us an opportunity to challenge all of those existing conventions and do something different and build something afresh,’ says Browne.

‘The #1 is a very different proposition {to the ForTwo and ForFour] that will appeal to different customers. We’re moving into a different territory. Small SUVs are such a big part of the UK market and that was the obvious first place to go, but also in a way that’s very much “Smart”.’

It was the ForTwo (originally called the City Coupe) that became the iconic Smart car, but in recent years the demand for these has been waning, with Smart registering just 941 cars in the UK this year (to the end of August). Bentley shifted more cars in that time.

Smarts have always been sold in a corner of a Mercedes-Benz dealer and Browne is clear that this relationship will remain, and that ‘Smart will not have its own sites’.

Small SUVs are such a big part of the UK market and that was the obvious first place to go, but also in a way that’s very much ‘Smart’.

David Browne Smart’s UK CEO

Smart’s UK CEO David Browne talks to Ted Welford about the firm’s new cars and how its models will be sold in the future.

has already established, and we’re looking to build on that as we go forward with those existing partners.’

When the #1 launches next year, it will follow Mercedes’ lead and be sold purely via an agency sales model.

‘Mercedes are very well advanced with those discussions with retailers, and as we’re engaging with the same retailers, it’s fair to say that approach has been appreciated by our partners.

‘As an organisation, we’re quite lean and want to keep our costs to a minimum, and that’s ultimately why the retailers are an extension of us as Smart UK. They’re our eyes and ears on the ground and engaging with customers, so it’s really important to build relationships with the network.’

Browne said there had been ‘absolutely no concerns raised’ by the retail network ‘in terms of the implementation of that agency relationship, and actually retailers are welcoming it’.

The #1 will be sold in retailers as well as online, with Browne particularly proud of the fact a customer could buy a new Smart entirely online in just 15 minutes if they wanted to.

‘A retailer still plays a hugely important part of that journey, and even if someone chooses to engage with us completely online, make that purchase online, our retailer network is still part of the process and we will expect them to engage in terms of facilitating the handover of the car and also service down the line.’

With the arrival of the #1, Smart is hoping to see significant sales increases on the current mediocre figures.

‘In 2024, we will have our first full year, and I think it’s perfectly feasible for us to get to the volumes we did at a peak before with Smart. So that means delivering five-figure annual sales.

‘We’re already seeing a lot of demand for the car across Europe and we may be a little bit supply-constrained – that is the bit that’s reining in my aspirations at the moment.

‘All the signals we’re seeing, the rate of EV penetration in the UK accelerating as rapidly as it is, I’m concerned I’ve undercalled the volume. There’s an element of “I could do more”.’

The #1 is the first in a number of Smart hashtags. The firm won’t confirm what’s next but it’s safe to assume there’ll be a #2, #3, etc.

Time will only tell if Smart’s reinvention will be a one-hit wonder or if it should have just stuck to what it knew best.

The Smart cars

City Coupe (1998-2002)

The original Smart car, the City Coupe launched in 1998 and was later rebranded as the ForTwo.

Crossblade

Smart’s strangest model to date. The Crossblade was a concept car turned into production. Just 2,000 were made, and they’re worth north of £20,000 today.

Roadster (2003-2006)

Smart’s first and only sports car weighed just 800kg but it was let down by a semi-automatic gearbox.

ForFour Mk 1 (2004-2006)

The first Smart that was sold with more than two seats, the Forfour was designed to be more familyfriendly, although slow sales meant it was canned after just two years.

New ForTwo and ForFour

Introduced in 2015, it saw the return of the ForFour and a new-generation ForTwo, both based on a platform shared with the Renault Twingo. Sales switched to EV-only in 2019.

Smart #1

Smart’s new era kicks off with the #1 – a high-tech, electric SUV capable of 272 miles on a single charge.

We’ve been very lucky to inherit a great network as part of what Mercedes has already established.

The all-new Smart #1

David Browne Smart’s UK CEO

Shoreham

up to

DASHBOARD

00-HEAVEN AS RALLY HEADS ABROAD AGAIN

Lawgistics transformed an old Ford KA into a Ford #KAt that caught the attention of a canine onlooker…

Unfortunately, the team also caught the attention of French police on the A6 motorway between Grenoble and Lyon when they inadvertently went over the speed limit and ended up with a €90 fine – ooops!

Picture courtesy of Lawgistics

The automotive industry came together once again in October for the annual Bangers4Ben rally, with ‘Bangers Does Bond’ the theme as the teams made their scenic way across mainland Europe.

The event saw a convoy of customised bangers raising money for the automotive industry charity Ben.

This was the first year since 2019 that the rally had been able to go abroad, and it took in the stunning locations of Nice, Saint-Tropez, Cannes and Monaco plus the Alps during the 1,575-mile journey.

Teams were encouraged to raise £1,000 each, with their cars now being auctioned off as rally organiser Automotion Events aims to bring in £50,000 for the industry charity – or even top that amount.

NOT TO LATE TO DONATE TO BANGERS4BEN –

WISHING TO SUPPORT THE CHARITY CAN DO SO HERE

Among those taking part was PJ Quinn, CEO of Emerald House of Cars, who drove a £750 replica of Austin Powers’ time machine.

Connected Car Finance undertook the trip in its very own ‘Martini Express’, which drew inspiration from six decades of 007 films.

Derby-based dealership Car Quay also got into the spirit of things, with its casino-based offering dubbed ‘Carsino Royale’.

Another Bond-inspired offering came from GardX, which made the trip in a classic BMW ‘007i’.

SEVEN REVEALS AT 2022

PARIS MOTOR SHOW

A number of important new models were unveiled when this major event returned after four years. Ted Welford reports.

It was four years ago when the Paris Motor Show was last held, with the Covid pandemic having put the brakes on the event.

But October saw the return of the famed Mondial de l’Auto, and a number of important new models were revealed.

Here are the seven key cars that shone at the show, which was held at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

Peugeot 408

While the Peugeot 408 was first revealed back in July, this stylish new crossover vehicle was shown to the public for the first time in Paris.

Set to slot in Peugeot’s line-up between the 308 and 508, it will offer a similar ethos to the Citroen C5 X, as it takes the profile of a raised crossoverinspired saloon.

Bringing a bold design as well as a choice of plug-in hybrid powertrains, it’ll be a welcome addition to Peugeot’s line-up.

Dacia Manifesto

While Dacia revealed its new range-wide branding and a hybrid-powered version of the Jogger SUV at Paris, the model we were most keen to see was the Manifesto concept car.

Styled like an off-road buggy, it’s not going to enter production, but it reaffirms the values Dacia will prioritise in the future, including minimalist features – not giving customers things they don’t need – plus a fresh push towards sustainability.

Jeep Avenger

For a manufacturer so well known for its gas-guzzling 4x4s, it was quite the break from tradition for the brand to purely show electrified models on its Paris Motor Show stand.

Grabbing the limelight was the new Jeep Avenger – the brand’s first EV. Slotting beneath the Renegade in terms of size, this compact electric SUV brings Jeep’s trademark chunky looks and a targeted range of 250 miles.

Alpine Alpenglow

Since Alpine was revived in 2017, the A110 has gone down a storm with sports car fans. The brand continues to tweak and improve it, with a more extreme A110 R model being shown in Paris.

But the real highlight was the Alpenglow. It’s a futuristic concept car that previews what’s to come from Alpine in the future. That means more wild and adventurous styling, while the concept also uses a hydrogen powertrain – a potential hint at what Alpine wants to drive its sports cars with in the coming years.

BYD

Renault 4Ever Trophy

Renault showed off the 4Ever Trophy – a funky concept car that previews the revival of one of the French brand’s most iconic models, the Renault 4

The show car boasted an adventure-ready body kit, including huge plastic cladding around the arches and lower bumpers, a roof rack equipped with a spare tyre, plus a shovel and sand ladders located on the boot.

The off-road gear was just for the concept car, though, as the basic silver bodywork and silhouette is how the next Renault 4 will look.

Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

Although not present at the show itself, Mercedes did show off its EQE SUV at the nearby Musee Rodin. It’s essentially the SUV version of the pure-electric EQE and comes in a number of flavours, including 43 and 53 AMG versions.

All models use a 91kWh battery, with the rear-wheel-drive EQE 350 having the longest range of all versions, claiming up to 367 miles on a charge. It can charge at up to 170kW, too, with Mercedes saying up to 137 miles of range can be added in just 15 minutes.

The next few years are set to see an influx of Chinese automotive brands being introduced to Europe, including the UK. And one of them making a bold entry at Paris was BYD. You might have never heard of the brand, but on a global level it’s a massive deal, selling more EVs than any other manufacturer.

BYD showcased three models at Paris – the Atto 3 crossover, Han saloon (pictured) and Tang SUV.

The firm will be launching in Germany by the end of the year and the UK and France in 2023.

DASHBOARD

WHY THE UPSURGE IN CAR SALES ISN’T ALL GOOD NEWS

An EV milestone may well have been reached but there’s still plenty to worry about in the new car sector.

Households have buckled under the pressure of the UK’s growing cost-of-living crisis driven by rapidly rising food prices, domestic fuel bills and mortgage payments.

Joe Staton GfK client strategy director

Dealers across the UK may well be breathing a collective sigh of relief following the best September for new car sales since 2019, but the 4.6 per cent rise doesn’t necessarily mean things have got back to normal, according to industry experts.

A combination of an easing of supply issues and buyers wanting to beat expected interest rate rises on car finance saw more than 225,000 new cars hit the roads last month, but the increase of over 10,000 units compared with September 2021 isn’t an automatic indication of a strengthening of the new car market, with the majority of growth coming from fleet customers.

Karen Johnson, head of corporate and wholesale at Barclays Corporate Banking, said: ‘Whilst we have seen some short-term relief on supply, allowing dealers to meet the backlog of orders, there are still significant delays to contend with. Looking ahead, dealers will be worried about the long-term impact of rising finance costs on demand for new cars. Could we be seeing a run on new cars?’

The sales growth was largely down to pent-up fleet orders, which were up 12 per cent on the same period in 2021 – but the likelihood is that many of these orders were placed several months ago and held up due to supply chain issues, with fleet buyers preferring to defer registration until the plate change to help sustain residual values.

Private sales in September 2022 were actually down four per cent on the year before – seen by many as a barometer of consumer confidence amid a cost-of-living crisis and spiralling increases in energy prices.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said: ‘The overall market remains weak as supply chain issues continue to constrain model availability. Whilst the industry is working hard to address these issues, the long-term recovery of the market also depends on robust consumer confidence and economic stability.’

The latter two are conspicuous by their absence, according to the latest Consumer Confidence Report by analysts GfK.

The index measures how people view their personal finances and wider economic prospects, and it dropped by five percentage points to -49 in September – the lowest since records began in 1974.

GfK client strategy director Joe Staton said: ‘Households have buckled under the pressure of the UK’s growing cost-of-living crisis driven by rapidly rising food prices, domestic fuel bills and mortgage payments.’

But it’s not all bad news, with uptake for electric vehicles continuing to increase across the UK. More than a million EVs have now been registered in the UK, and September saw the second-highest monthly volume of battery-electric vehicle (BEV) registrations in history – up 16.5 per cent to 38,116 units.

Hawes added: ‘Battery-electric vehicles make up but a small fraction of cars on the road, so we need to ensure every lever is pulled to encourage motorists to make the shift if our green goals are to be met.’

At present, though, the infrastructure for new EVs may not be fit to meet expected demand. According to a survey released on October 5 by Novuna Vehicle Solutions, which quizzed 2,000 British motorists, 31 per cent of EV drivers already face frequent queues for a charger, and four in five say the UK government should do more to improve chargepoint availability.

The research also found that the majority of petrol and diesel car owners – 59 per cent –plan to buy an EV when it’s time to replace their current vehicle, and demand is even higher among young drivers, with 79 per cent of 18-to-34-year-olds planning to switch to an EV.

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Brothers

Close Brothers Motor Finance – Putting dealers first when it comes to funding

The ongoing global shortage of semiconductors used in car production, as well as other materials such as copper, aluminium and cobalt, has led to fewer new vehicles rolling off production lines, which has severely limited dealers in their recovery after forecourt closures due to Covid-19.

And with turbulent economic times ahead, dealers looking to grow margins and improve their profits could consider how a stock funding plan could improve the outlook for their businesses.

Close Brothers Motor Finance offers flexible funding based on the preferences of its dealer partners, with options tailored to their business goals, a clear payment model and no hidden or nasty surprises.

A Close Brothers Motor Finance stock funding plan is a unique offering that combines access to stock funding to help dealers' businesses thrive. As a funded partner, dealers are able to stock better vehicles, upgrade their forecourt, improve their premises and will have access to exclusive performance insight –delivered through a dedicated account manager with Close Brothers Motor Finance’s innovative, awardwinning Forecourt Insight Data Tool.

Gain Access To Award-Winning Data

Close Brother Motor Finance’s Forecourt Insight Data Tool helps dealers grow their margins and improve their profits. The tool combines Auto Trader’s best-in-class automotive data with Close Brothers Motor Finance’s award-winning knowledge of dealer partners, creating a powerful insight dashboard that aims to aid better understanding of regional trends, stock inefficiencies and consumer behaviour. This knowledge allows dealers to manage their forecourt and the price of stock effectively, and unlock their full potential for buying and selling vehicles in line with customer demand.

The data the tool can analyse is vast. Consider this: in just one month, Auto Trader saw more than 65 million visits to its marketplace. It works with 13,500 retailer partners and lists more than 400,000 vehicles. These stats, combined with the input of Close Brothers Motor Finance’s knowledge of its own dealer partners, means the tool can analyse 900,000 vehicles across the market every day.

Dealerships using this tool have been able to increase desirable stock. This means they can sell vehicles quicker, as highly coveted vehicles typically take 32 days to sell – almost half the 63 days it takes on average to sell less-desirable vehicles. We tried out the tool with some partners and they were impressed. One partner took an average of 82 days to sell a vehicle in October and November 2021. In January 2022, after they started using the tool, this was cut to 59 days – a reduction of 28 per cent.

The Forecourt Insight Data Tool is only available to Close Brothers Motor Finance’s funded dealer partners and costs them nothing extra – they don't have to do anything to access the tool either.

We believe in the importance of partnership, and providing dealers with the tools to successfully do their jobs and run their business is key.

For more information, visit closemotorfinance.co.uk/dealer/funding-your-forecourt

What dealers are saying

Close Brothers Motor Finance funding has allowed us to go from our humble beginnings of two people in a little office to a 20,000sq ft showroom that employs 11 people and sells new and nearly new commercial vehicles to a nationwide audience.

Bryn Lee Evans Director, New Vehicle Solutions

I’m really excited for the future with Close Brothers. All the investment that they have made in their new products is going to add value to my business.

Owner, Crompton Way Motors

The stocking facility has allowed us to supply a wider range of vehicles, maybe something we wouldn’t normally stock, enabling customers to have a bigger selection.

Martin Nixon Director, New Vehicle Solutions

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Robin Luscombe, Luscombe Motors

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Neil McCue, Snows

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REVEALED: THE USED CAR AWARDS 2022 NOMINATIONS LIST

The firms that have made the Nominations List for the Used Car Awards 2022, sponsored by Black Horse, have been revealed. They are the ones that will go through to the tough mystery shopping phase, with the winners announced at the glittering awards ceremony at The Brewery in London on Monday, November 28.

Our judging panel – which includes event host Wheeler Dealer star Mike Brewer – whittled down the thousands of nominations received using a combination of citations and online reviews across a variety of platforms.

These businesses will now be mystery-shopped by our panel before our judges draw up the awards Shortlist, which will be revealed on Monday, October 24.

Brewer said: ‘The entries this year have been outstanding and it’s been tough enough whittling them down to this longer Nominations List cut.

‘The mystery shopping phase always sorts the wheat from the chaff, though.

‘The team, including myself, work incredibly hard on mystery-shopping the car dealers named here and fill out a scary-looking spreadsheet to help us decide the winner.

‘I can’t wait to be celebrating with the winners at the awards on November 28 –it’ll be worth all the hard work!’

Mystery shopping can happen remotely, on the phone, on a nominated firm’s website, or in person.

Brewer added: ‘Make sure you and your teams are on top of your game because you never know when our mystery shoppers may be inquiring.’

The Used Car Awards, sponsored by Black Horse, will be held on November 28 at The Brewery in London.

It's highly advisable to book your place now as spaces are running out fast. Last year, the ever-popular event sold out two weeks before it was held.

The event is black-tie and includes a three-course dinner as well as unlimited beer and wine.

eBay Motors Group will be sponsoring the pre-dinner drinks and providing an after-dinner fun casino, while GardX is hosting the official afterparty, which is by invitation only.

Nominations

ACC UK, Farnborough

Anderson Clark Motor Repairs, Inverness

Bntec German Autocare, Hull

BTE Automotive, Bordon

CCM, Cranleigh

Cedar Garage German Car Specialists, Worthing Grimsdyke Service Station, Stanmore Hillclimb Garage, High Wycombe

Spencer’s Service and MOT Centre, Norwich

ListUckfield Motor Services, Uckfield

Used EV Dealer

Sponsorship available

Cleevely EV, Cheltenham

R Symons, New Milton

ERLS Vehicles, Brixworth

Just EVs, Southampton

EV Experts, Guildford

WeAreEV, Bristol

Go Green Autos, Wantage Drive Green, Emborough EVHERO, Peterborough Electric Cars UK, Preston

Social Media User

Sponsored by iVendi Acklam Car Centre

Amari Supercars

Emerald House of Cars GVE, London

HPL Car Supermarket

Jim Reid Vehicle Sales & Service Marshall Motor Group

Premier GT

Targa Florio Cars Tom Hartley Cars

Use of Video

Sponsored by Visitor Chat

Acklam Car Centre

Alexanders Prestige

or call 020 8125 3880

Amari Supercars

Emerald House of Cars Fords of Winsford

GVE, London

Pilote Classics

Premier GT

Romans International

Targa Florio Cars

Used Car Website

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Car Quay

Carite

Crompton Way Motors

Fords of Winsford Fratelli Cars

Frosts Cars

Hilton Garage Imola of Bristol Marshall Motor Group Wilsons of Epsom

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Sponsored by Codeweavers

Arnold Clark Cazoo

DCC Emerald House of Cars Fords of Winsford Frosts Cars Hilton Garage Motorpoint SUV Prestige Vertu Motors

Specialist Used Car Dealership

Sponsored by Blue Motor Finance

Alexanders Prestige, Boroughbridge

Amari Supercars, Preston

GVE, London

Optimum Vehicles, Bilbrough

Philip Raby Specialist Cars, Bosham Premier GT, Pulborough Romans International, Banstead Scuderia Prestige Automobile, Camberley

Targa Florio Cars, Chichester Tom Hartley, Swadlincote

Used Car Sales Team

Sponsored by Motorway Acklam Car Centre

Acorn Motor Group

Angus MacKinnon Beck Evans Car Quay Carmotion Crompton Way Motors Kia Ferndown (Hendy)

Hilton Garage Plympton Car Centre

Used Car Dealer Principal

Sponsored by Aston Lark

David Peachey, Hereford Motor Group

David Trigg, Premier GT

James Quigley, Acorn Crewe

Julian Stockton, Angus MacKinnon

Philip Raby, Philip Raby Specialist Cars

Shaun Young, Revento Motors

Spencer Gray, Spencer's Car Sales Steve Dhesi, SUV Prestige Stewart McMinn, Plympton Car Centre

Tom Hartley, Tom Hartley Cars

Future Star

Sponsored by Northridge Finance

Freddie Moncur, JFM Cars

Greg Ashleigh, Emerald House of Cars

James Castleton, Spencer's Car Sales

Kristian Shaw, Otter Motors

Louis Young, Compact Cars and Vans Michael Milani, Compact Cars and Vans

Nick Lapthorne, Big Motoring World

Owen Denning, SUV Prestige Tim Robotham, Hilton Garage Zak Din, Apollo Prestige Vehicles

Used Car Customer Care

Sponsored by RAC Dealer Network

Acklam Car Centre

Acorn Kia, Burntwood Angus MacKinnon Auriga Cars Carite

Crompton Way Motors Grimsdyke Car Sales Motoroo

Plympton Car Centre Prestige Cars Kent

Used Car Supermarket

Sponsored by Mann Island Finance

Available Car Big Motoring World Carbase Cargiant Carshop

Carstore

Fords of Winsford Hilton Garage Motorpoint Motorstore by Arnold Clark

Newcomer Dealership

Sponsored by Moneybarn

Adam Automotive, Chelmsford Apollo Prestige, Matlock

European Prestige UK, Orpington Giraffe Cars, Newtownabbey

JFM Cars, Woodford Green LM Motor Company, Kilmarnock MSB Car Sales, Arbroath Platinum Vehicles, North Shields Rhys Edwards Motors, Glantwymyn Scuderia Prestige Automobile, Camberley

Used Commercial Vehicle Dealer

Sponsored by Close Brothers

Anchor Vans, Reading Chase Vans, Southampton Discount Van Sales, Newport

Good Van Company, Preston Hendy Ford Transit Centre, Eastleigh JL Vans, Warrington

Perrys Aylesbury Commercial Centre Peter Vardy Vanz

Van Monster Vansdirect, Southampton

Days To Turn

Sponsored by Auto Trader Riverview Cars Ltd G and E Motors Ltd Trinity Motorz Ltd Wainscott Car Centre

Countryside Automobiles Auto Performance Centre Ltd Conisbrough Motor Company LS Autos Ltd

Langley Motor Company Cedar Specialist Cars

Diversity & Inclusion

Sponsored by MotoNovo Finance

Auto Trader

Available Car Car Connect Bristol Cox Automotive

Jardine Motors

Marshall Motor Group Mazda Motors UK Sytner

TrustFord Vantage Motor Group

Used Car Dealership: Up To 50 Cars

Sponsored by Black Horse Car Brothers, Newtownabbey

Crompton Way Motors, Bolton Garage on the Green, St Leonardson-Sea

Jim Reid Vehicle Sales & Service, Inverurie North Loop Autohaus, Droitwich Pescara, Tonbridge Styrin Motors, Leeds

The Car Centre, Manchester The Premium Car Collection, Sheffield Top Car Inverness

Used Car Dealership: 51-100 Cars

Sponsored by Black Horse Acklam Car Centre, Middlesbrough Adam Automotive, Chelmsford Ashridge Vehicles, Berkhamsted Chico’s of Plymouth

Empressive Motor Company, Merthyr Tydfil Motoroo, Romford Plympton Car Centre, Plympton RS Car Sales, Sandbach

Solo Car Sales, Liverpool Your Car Supermarket, Birmingham

Used Car Dealership: Over 100 Cars

Sponsored by Black Horse

Beck Evans, Sidcup

Burford Car Sales, Hoddesdon Car Quay, Derby

Carmotion, Mexborough Parc Lane Cars, Newcastle upon Tyne

Prestige Cars Kent, Orpington

Quality Part X, Stevenage Saxton 4×4, Chelmsford

SUV Prestige, Wetherby Windmill Motors, Bourne

Used Car Dealership Group

Sponsored by Black Horse

Arnold Clark

Hendy

John Grose

Marshall Motor Group

Peter Vardy Snows Steven Eagell Swansway Sytner

TrustFord

Manufacturer Used Car Scheme

Sponsored by Auto Protect

Audi BMW Ford Hyundai Mercedes Nissan Suzuki Vauxhall Volkswagen Volvo

Used Small Car Used Mid-Sized Car

Used Executive Car

Used Sports Car

Used SUV

Used AFV

Used Car of the Year

Sponsored by: To be announced No Nominations List

Outstanding Achievement

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No Nominations List

Lifetime Achievement

Sponsored by GardX

No Nominations List

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Polestar deserves much better than becoming a meaningless EV name

I’ve spent the past two weeks driving one of the rarest cars in the UK. No, it’s not one of the Ferrari specials sanctioned from Maranello that you can only buy if your name ends in Clapton, or one of those Porsches that even if you sell your spleen and both kidneys you can’t afford, but a Polestar 1.

The Polestar 1 is one of those cars that risks being entirely forgotten about. While the relatively new performance brand flexes its muscles and launches a series of its own cars, the company’s first one was a plug-in hybrid that was originally going to be a Volvo.

I remember being at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show when then-Volvo styling chief Thomas Ingenlath (now Polestar’s big cheese) revealed the Concept Coupe and the assembled journalists practically gasped.

Bathed in light, the car looked gorgeous and the message was clear – after around a decade of so-so styling and mismanagement by Ford, Volvo was back in the room.

We were told that the eventual car, dubbed the C90 by journos, would arrive by 2020 and would probably be powered by a selection of 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines.

But then something odd happened. Geely – Volvo’s Chinese parent – decided to spin off Polestar as a separate brand. Until that point, Polestar was a tuning firm that successfully campaigned Volvos in a variety of motorsports and, to quote that cliche, Polestar was to Volvo what AMG is to Mercedes. Perhaps the high point was the absolutely bonkers Volvo C30 Polestar, or the slightly less unhinged – but still fabulously off-beat – V60 Polestar with its turbocharged 3.0-litre six-pot engine. Polestar’s performance credentials were pukka then, so it was turned into a brand in itself in 2017.

The Polestar 1 is one of those cars that risks being entirely forgotten about.

We can only assume the C90, or whatever the Volvo Coupe was to become, was hastily repackaged as Polestar’s first car, and with Geely’s intention for Polestar to become a premium brand, the Concept Coupe gave it the upmarket image it needed.

Being based on the same platform as the S90 and XC90, a fully electric version wasn’t possible though, so Polestar took Volvo’s ‘T8 Twin Engine’ powertrain consisting of a 2.0-litre turbocharged and supercharged engine and an electric motor, and its engineers set to work. Instead of one electric motor powering the rear axle, two were fitted, meaning this all-wheel-drive coupe had more than 600bhp. Six hundred big ones with CO2 emissions of 13g/km! And because of the large 34kWh battery, a pure-electric range of 77 miles was possible. No plug-in hybrid has ever bettered that.

It was on sale for three short years and was a fabulous flop in the UK. Around a handful were registered here, almost entirely down to the £139,000 price tag and how it only came in left-hand drive and looked and felt like a Volvo. It’s a surefire future classic, though – an oddity that comes along once every so often that, despite its foibles, is a very special car.

I was also present at the world debut of the new Polestar 3. It’s an important car because it’s the first one Polestar has styled itself. Yes, there are still elements of Volvo in the design, the safety kit is nicked from Volvo and the platform will be used by the new Volvo EX90 (the electric XC90), but the 3 is evidence that Polestar trying to go at it alone. Future models like the glamorous four-door Polestar 5 and 2+2 Polestar 6 will push the brand further away from Volvo, which in theory is a good thing. But is it?

Geely is building itself a very nice portfolio of carmakers, with its performance brands consisting of Lotus and Polestar. The Chinese powerhouse has even recently invested in Aston Martin. It has proved itself to be the master of giving the brands that it owns the cash they badly need while also giving them the space to flourish. But I fear that Polestar could be pushed into a direction where, even with fantastic design and quality on its side, it becomes just another name in an electric world of meaningless brand names.

The Polestar 1 is important because it aligns the brand to something credible. Being Volvo’s performance brand is nothing to be ashamed of.

Batch chat

JAMES BATCHELOR

James Batchelor

James – aka Batch –started at Car Dealer in 2010, becoming editor in 2013. He then worked for Auto Express and Carbuyer, went freelance in 2020, and became Car Dealer’s associate editor in October 2021.

WHILE THE CEO’S AWAY, BATCH STEPS INTO THE BREACH TO HAVE HIS SAY

Big Mike OUR MAN ON THE INSIDE SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON THE CAR BUSINESS

Text in haste and you can end up repenting at leisure – as I discovered with Merc S-Class

Long-term readers of this column may remember my apprentice, Jason, who was regularly lampooned in these pages back when he was a lad.

Having learnt his trade from the master, he went on to become a very successful salesman and now lives in an extremely nice apartment in Solihull, drives a Range Rover and flogs finance products for a living, earning a far more handsome commission than he ever got off nine-year-old Vauxhall Vectras and Ford Mondeos out of a back-street car lot. He was – and still is – a nice lad, so fair play to him, even if he probably still doesn’t know how to tie his shoelaces or get out of bed in time for work.

Anyway, I bumped into Jason last week in the Queen’s Arms after I popped in for a sundowner before heading home to do my accounts. He was out with a couple of old mates from over the west side of Brum, and as soon as he saw me he bought me a pint and a whisky chaser, meaning I had to leave the car at the pub and get the bus home. Oh well, never mind.

We had a good chat about the old days and some of the mischief we got up to, and then he recounted a tale to his mates about what has to be the crowning glory among my failed attempts to sell a car. You know when you go fishing and you have the fish on the hook but for some strange reason you fling it back into the water? Well, here we go…

It would have been around 2005/2006, and I had a late-1970s MercedesBenz S-Class – one of the last of the massively over-engineered big old barges with a V8 under the bonnet. It was a bit down at heel but cleaned up okay and looked great in the photos. I tried to sell it a few times but never really had much of a bite, so it took up residence in Poo Corner –the part of my lot where I store the part-exes, no-hopers and restoration projects that I’ll get around to ‘one day’.

What I didn’t realise was that I’d still left one of the adverts live –something I found out the hard way when I got a phone call at 8am on a Thursday from a chap down in Exeter.

Who is Big Mike?

Well, that would be telling. What we can say is he’s had more than 40 years in the car trade so has probably forgotten more about it than we’re likely to know.

‘I’d like to buy your Mercedes,’ said a Devonian voice on the end of the phone. ‘I’m happy with the pictures, it’s the right colour, so if you don’t mind collecting me from Birmingham New Street I’ll be there about 4.30pm.’

Never one to pass up a sale, I agreed the deal on the phone and called up a gentleman who knew a gentleman who would make sure it had an MOT certificate by 4.30pm.

With that side of things in hand, I dropped Jason a text message, as that morning I was up at the car auctions in Walsall and had to entrust such duties to the apprentice.

It read: ‘J – urgent favour. Can you slap a used battery on the Merc

We had a good chat about the old days and some of the mischief we got up to.

It took up residence in Poo Corner – the part of my lot where I store the partexes, no-hopers and restoration projects

S-Class and chuck a bucket over it, slosh a gallon of petrol in the tank and take the old knacker for a couple of laps round the block to free up the brakes. Got some sucker coming by train, wants me to pick him up at 4.30.’

I got back to work just after lunchtime and was rather enraged to see that the S-Class was still sitting under a tree, covered in bird mess and tree sap and sporting two flat tyres. Jason was in the office, playing solitaire on the works computer and sending rude text messages to his girlfriend.

‘What the bloody hell are you doing?’ I raged. ‘The Merc still looks like it should be in the scrapyard and the bloke’s arriving from Devon in a couple of hours. Get out there and get the ****ing thing ready like I asked you to.’

Jason looked at me with an expression of genuine puzzlement.

‘What do you mean, boss?’

‘I sent you a text message when I was at the auction.’

Just before I launched into a full-on rage, though, my phone beeped. It was a text from the buyer and it read: ‘Good job I bought a return ticket. Sounds like I dodged a bullet there.’

Yes, in my haste to sell the blinking thing, I’d managed to send my text not to Jason but to the poor, unsuspecting customer who was already on the train from Exeter St Davids…

As for the Merc, it’s still there, under the same tree, all these years on. Perhaps I should chuck a bucket over it, pump up the tyres and try to sell it again – this time as a barn-find classic.

Just before I launched into a full-on rage, though, my phone beeped. It was a text from the buyer and it read: ‘Good job I bought a return ticket. Sounds like I dodged a bullet there.’

CAR

ROUND-UP

VAUXHALL

First models in GSe electrified sub-brand are introduced

VAUXHALL has introduced the first models to its GSe subbrand – the Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe.

Both use a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which puts out a total of 222bhp and 360Nm yet is capable of returning up to 256.8mpg when fully charged. The Astra GSe’s CO2 emissions are low, too, at between 25 and 26g/km.

Vauxhall has also given the Astra GSe a performance-

focused suspension setup, dropping its ride height by 10mm over the regular car, which can help to enhance stability during cornering and when travelling at higher speeds. Both Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe models get revised springs and oil-filled dampers at the front and rear, with Koni frequency selective damping also included as standard.

MASERATI

BMW has unveiled the XM as its new performance SUV flagship, using a new plug-in hybrid setup that makes it the first BMW ‘M’ model to feature electrification.

Previewed last year with the Concept XM, that model’s bold styling remains for the production car. Unveiled in the year BMW marks 50 years of its ‘M’ models, this SUV is a bespoke model that will purely be offered as an ‘M’ car, rather than a tuned version of an existing car.

The star of the show is its new ‘M Hybrid V8’ setup, which pairs an ‘extensively updated’ 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine with a 194bhp electric motor, with the combination developing 645bhp and 800Nm of torque.

That makes it the most powerful BMW to date, and gives a 0-60mph time of 4.3 seconds and top speed of up to 168mph.

MERCEDES-AMG

C63S arrives with four cylinders and hybrid tech

MERCEDES-AMG has unveiled its latest C63S, bringing a fourcylinder engine with hybrid assistance to the firm’s popular performance car.

Replacing the C63’s famous 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor which, when combined, produce 670bhp and 1,020Nm of torque to make it the most powerful four-cylinder engine currently in production.

But with a 6.1kWh battery, the plug-in hybrid C63 can manage just eight miles on a single charge.

Latest GranTurismo ushers in EVs

MASERATI’S GranTurismo has returned as a striking new sports car that will also usher in EVs to the Italian brand.

The GranTurismo was an integral part of the Maserati range between 2007 and 2020 when it was discontinued. Now the marque is returning with a new model.

The new GranTurismo gets the latest Maserati grille and sharp LED headlights.

Based around 800-volt technology, it should have a range of beyond 300 miles.

FORD

Focus ST now has Track Pack option

DS

Latest DS 7 goes on sale in the UK

PEUGEOT e-208 hatchback gains extended range and more

PEUGEOT has updated its e-208, bringing a longer electric range and more power to the hatchback.

FORD has given buyers of its Focus ST the chance to sharpen their driving experience even further with a Track Pack.

Developed by Ford Performance, it’s available exclusively for five-door, six-speed manual Focus ST variants. It fine-tunes the ST via a KW Automotive adjustable suspension that works with lighter alloy wheels for more responsiveness. The setup can be adjusted by the owner to tailor the car to a specific circuit or surface.

THE latest DS 7 is available to order in the UK ahead of first deliveries in November.

Priced from £36,760, the DS 7 benefits from a refreshed design inside and out, as well as a number of hybrid powertrains. Highlights include the DS 7 E-Tense 225, which can return up to 250mpg and 43 miles of electric-only range.

Hybrid E-Tense models can be charged via a 7.4kW unit in 105 minutes. A diesel engine is also available on Performance Line, Performance Line+ and Rivoli specifications.

Due to arrive on UK roads in 2023, the revised e-208 will use the new e-308’s powertrain, offering 248 miles of electric range in the process, courtesy of a 51kWh battery. That’s an increase over the previous model’s 225 miles.

Power is also boosted from 136bhp to 156bhp, while coldweather performance has improved according to Peugeot, with 24 additional miles in urban traffic at zero degrees.

BMW

454bhp M2 helps mark 50th

BMW is continuing celebrations to mark 50 years of its performance ‘M’ division with the reveal of the new M2.

Entering a second generation, this new sports coupe has big boots to fill, as the previous M2 was widely regarded as one of the best performance cars around. It was also BMW’s bestselling ‘M’ model.

Getting a tuned version of its predecessor’s 3.0-litre twinturbo in-line six engine, it’s the most powerful M2 to date –putting out 454bhp and 550Nm of torque.

Coming with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic gearbox as standard, it will also have a six-speed manual for more traditional sports car fans.

Updates brought in for Soul EV

Features added to Mustang Mach-e

KIA has announced a number of updates for its Soul EV.

The funky electric crossover has been around in its second generation since 2020.

Kia has only ever sold it with a large 64kWh battery pack, giving it a range of 280 miles.

However, it’s now bringing in a smaller 39.2kWh battery option, helping to bring the cost down. The electric motor produces 134bhp and 395Nm of torque, giving a 0-60mph time of 9.7 seconds and 97mph top speed. It also has a claimed range 171 miles.

FORD has added a range of features to its flagship Mustang Mach-e electric SUV. All versions now get Ford’s Intelligent Automated Cruise Control 2.0, which takes info from the sat nav and combines it with a camera to adjust the vehicle’s speed depending on speed limit signs, curves and turns. It can also slow the vehicle down if it’s approaching a roundabout.

Towing capacity has been improved as well, going from 1,000kg to 1,500kg for models with the 91kWh battery.

HONOURS

Most inspiring women named

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THE Automotive 30% Club has named its most inspiring women of 2022 across the industry.

For the first time this year, nominations were open for all women within the sector, not just those within the club’s member organisations. Inspiring Automotive Woman of the Year 2022 was named as Jennifer Koontz – assistant vice-president of European airport properties and relations at vehicle rental outfit Enterprise Holdings.

Click on Koontz’s picture for the full list.

REDEVELOPMENT

Crewe BMW site to have £4.5m refurb

CONSTRUCTION

Sinclair Group breaks ground on replacement Jaguar Land Rover showroom for Swansea

SINCLAIR Group has broken ground on a new Jaguar Land Rover showroom in Swansea. Set to open in summer 2023, the new dealership will replace the company’s existing site at Valley Way on Swansea Enterprise Park. It’ll have space for 12 cars to be displayed, a customer reception, personalisation suite, two handover areas and an 18-bay workshop. Pictured from left are Sinclair Group franchise head Nicky Boyce and MD Andy Sinclair, Swansea City Council leader Rob Stewart and Gareth Jones, MD of design and build contractor Jones Brothers

LOOKERS is to spend £4.5m on a major redesign and refurb of its BMW site in Crewe.

The move will see the longestablished dealership become a major regional retail hub for the luxury German brand, says the motoring and aftersales group.

Work on the redevelopment will take six months, with an official opening planned for March 2023.

While the work takes place, the BMW centre has relocated to the Lookers Mini Crewe showroom nearby.

OPTIONS

Pendragon starts review after offer

PENDRAGON’S board has announced a wide-ranging review of its options for the benefit of its shareholders.

It came in the wake of a possible cash offer by Hedin Group at 29p per share and has been partly prompted by a threat to its Pinewood division.

Hedin Group initially said it would block any rival bids for Pendragon but subsequently performed a U-turn and now won’t. It also said it wouldn’t keep the Pinewood arm.

CENTRE

Porsche creates first Destination in UK

READING’S Porsche showroom has had a major makeover to reopen as the UK’s first Destination Porsche centre.

The Calcot site has been a prominent feature of the local landscape for more than 35 years, but its profile is now set to be raised even further.

The showroom has more than doubled in area to over 2,000 square metres, allowing up to 31 Porsche cars to be showcased.

The Polestar 1 is one of those cars that risks being entirely forgotten about.

James Batchelor p29

TELEVISION

Cinch comes under fire on Rip Off Britain

SHUTTING

Perrys to close Ford site in High Wycombe

REBRAND

Group 1 axes names from UK dealerships

PODCAST

Driven by

ONLINE used car disruptor Cinch has come under fire on BBC consumer advice programme Rip Off Britain.

On the show – fronted by Angela Rippon, Julia Somerville and Gloria Hunniford – the online used car dealer was blasted for selling a paramedic two cars with problems.

‘I felt like I had been had over with a car not fit for purpose,’ he told the show. Cinch told the BBC that his case ‘did not meet its usually high standards’.

PERRYS is shutting its Ford dealership in High Wycombe at the end of October.

It confirmed reports on local social media by replying to a customer’s query on its own Facebook page to say it will be closing on October 31.

The move, which will see the London Road site sold off, is part of the Blue Oval’s wider plans to reduce the number of its UK dealerships by almost half. Regional director said the decision had been ‘difficult’.

GROUP 1 Automotive has axed the Barons and Chandlers names from its UK dealerships.

The American car dealer group said the move would provide ‘transparency’ for its customers.

Barons and Chandlers appeared on numerous BMW and Mini showrooms across the Home Counties and south coast.

But dealerships have removed the branding and now carry the Group 1 name. Websites have also been rebranded.

Protesters target Aston Martin site

Listers to open £2m Volvo showroom

THE TEAM FROM CAR DEALER TALK ABOUT THE LATEST NEWS AND INTERVIEWS IN THIS REGULAR PODCAST

ASTON Martin’s flagship dealership in Park Lane was covered in orange paint as part of a demonstration by Just Stop Oil protesters.

The environmental group set up a road block in Mayfair on October 16 and sprayed paint over the showroom’s glass facade and signs.

Demonstrators also sat down in the road, holding large orange banners, with a number of them gluing themselves to the tarmac or locking themselves together.

A VOLVO showroom is to open in Leamington Spa on October 31 after a £2m refurbishment.

Car Dealer Top 100 firm Listers Group has given its Tachbrook Park Drive showroom the multi-millionpound makeover after taking over the franchise from Tollbar Warwick.

Listers Leamington Spa – Volvo Cars will offer sales, servicing, MOT tests and repairs. Dealer principal Harry Bathe said: ‘We are delighted to be representing Volvo Cars UK.’

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TO LISTEN TO PAST EPISODES OF THE CAR PODCASTSDEALER

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Picture: Google Street View

DEMONSTRATION REFURBISHMENT

He recounted a tale to his mates about what has to be the crowning glory among my failed attempts to sell a car.

Big Mike p30

Picture: BBC

‘It’ll be interesting to see if Alfa can finally convince buyers to part with their cash.’ Forecourt: p42

TRAILBLAZING

Peter Vardy first to sell Ora Funky Cat

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PETER Vardy has been named as the first dealer to represent Chinese car brand GWM Ora.

From November, customers will be able to see and test-drive the unusually named Ora Funky Cat First Edition EV, as well as place an order at Vardy’s Carz showroom in Glasgow.

Peter Vardy will be opening more showrooms selling GWM Ora products in 2023, including one in Edinburgh. CEO Peter Vardy said: ‘We can’t wait to introduce the product to Scotland and get customers into vehicles.’

RESULTS

More woe at Cazoo as losses deepen

LONG SERVICE

General manager praises aftersales fab four as they clock up 50 years at Darlington Skoda

Pictured from left are Martin Appleby, Michael Gallagher, John Humble, Robert Boston and Stuart Hill

OFFER

Free power for first 2,000 Ami buyers

LOSSES at online used car dealer Cazoo more than trebled to £329m last year.

Accounts at Companies House for the year ending December 31, 2021 show that the £102.7m loss the business recorded in 2020 plummeted to £329m in 2021.

Its EBITDA was readjusted to minus £179.9m from the minus £81.2m the year before. Revenue rocketed, however, from £162.2m in 2020 to £667.8m over the same period. The number of vehicles it sold last year jumped to 34,731 from 12,097 in 2020.

CITROEN has opened order books for its Ami electric quadricycle and is giving the first 2,000 buyers three months of free charging.

It will be available via Ubitricity’s 5,400-strong on-street charging network. The partnership between Citroen and the Shell-owned firm will make charging easier for owners who don’t have off-street parking, said the carmaker.

Prices for the quirky two-seater EV start at £7,695.

JCT600 cuts ties with Stellantis

JCT600 has severed ties with Stellantis, resulting in sites closing.

Three sites closed after crunch talks and two more will shut next summer. Most of the circa 100 staff have been offered other roles.

John Tordoff, chief executive of JCT600, said: ‘Given the huge global changes in recent years, we have to ensure that the business is fit for purpose for the future.

‘This has required us to make some difficult choices.’

BRISTOL Street Motors Darlington Skoda has been celebrating the long service of four of its colleagues.

Between them, service and diagnostic technicians John Humble, Robert Boston, Martin Appleby and service driver Michael Gallagher have clocked up 50 years in the McMullen Road dealership’s aftersales department. General manager Stuart Hill said: ‘I congratulate them all on their dedication and loyalty.’

The number of years since the Paris Motor Show was last held. It’s now returned in all its glory.

What car companies does Geely own?

OFF-ROADER

First Grenadiers roll off production line

INAUGURATION

Refurbed Lambo showroom opens

BITE-SIZE

Click on the text box for the full story

PRODUCTION of the muchanticipated Ineos Grenadier has finally got under way in France as the firm looks to claw back some of its losses.

Car Dealer earlier reported that the Sir Jim Ratcliffe-owned outfit lost an astonishing £186m in the 12 months to December 2021.

Overall, the outfit has put around £1.36bn into the off-roader. The first ones have rolled off the production line in Hambach, with customer deliveries expected from December.

Drive dealership does the double

CELEBRATION

LAMBORGHINI has officially inaugurated its refurbished showroom in Stockport after a ‘significant investment’.

Executives from the manufacturer and more than 200 guests were at the VIP opening event on September 29, where the new 4,000 sq ft showroom has been redesigned to fit Lamborghini’s corporate identity and global design standards.

Lamborghini Manchester is owned and operated by H.R. Owen Group, which has three other Lambo sites.

COURT

Customer title is won again by Snows Rolls-Royce in legal battle over tech

TALKS: Genesis is eyeing up a new showroom in Manchester as the firm looks to increase its presence outside London. Hyundai’s luxury brand is in talks to move into a site in New Cathedral Street, currently occupied by a Ted Baker store.

INVESTOR: Chinese powerhouse Geely has taken a 7.6 per cent stake in Aston Martin Lagonda. The firm said it can ‘contribute’ to the British marque’s future. It completes Aston Martin’s £654m equity capital raise to help fund new models.

CHALLENGE: Industry leaders have taken part in a boot camp as their final preparation for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of automotive charity Ben. The climb starts on November 19 and the 15 participants aim to raise £300,000 between them.

DRIVE Motor Retail’s Bury St Edmunds dealership has been honoured by Vauxhall once again for its customer excellence.

It’s the second time it has won the award – the first one was presented in 2019. General manager Sarah Ferrari said: ‘This recognition is testament to the hard work of everyone at Drive Bury St Edmunds.’

SARAH FERRARI AND THE TEAM RECEIVE

SNOWS is celebrating being ranked the UK’s number one dealership chain for customer experience for the second year running.

The Car Dealer Top 100 firm came top in the 2022 automotive industry report from Reputation, which scored it 775 out of a possible 1,000.

It netted an 86 per cent customer sentiment score, making it the second year in a row that it has triumphed among UK dealership chains.

ROLLS-ROYCE and BMW have been accused of stealing technology used to configure models online.

Software development firm Topalsson has brought the action, which will go to London’s High Court in October in a claim and counterclaim by Rolls-Royce.

Topalsson is suing for €6.4m for work completed but unpaid. RollsRoyce is countersuing Topalsson for €18.6m for not reaching deadlines and having to find another supplier.

SIGNED UP: Chipping Sodbury Motor Company has joined SsangYong’s network. The business also has a Ford franchise and authorised Fiat repairer status. Dealer principal David Powell said the brand was in perfect step with customers.

SUSPENDED: The future of Tesla’s half-finished Berlin gigafactory looks uncertain after work was halted on it months after boss Elon Musk called it a ‘gigantic money furnace’. There is speculation the development may be moved to the US.

FROM

HEAD

It feels as if there’s been a big push on the products front of late.

BENTLEY BENTAYGA EWB

The Extended Wheel Base is a longer and even more upmarket version of Bentley’s popular Bentayga SUV. James Baggott found out what it’s like.

Power

The 4.0-litre 32-valve twin turbocharged V8 petrol engine delivers 542bhp and 770Nm of torque.

WHAT IS IT?

This is a Bentley Bentayga – just a little longer. Focusing on rear seat passenger comfort, the luxury car manufacturer has added 180mm – about the size of an average cucumber –to the Extended Wheel Base (EWB) model. That extra length is contained in the rear door, adding some much-needed additional rear passenger space for the occupants.

WHAT’S NEW?

The maker says there are 2,500 new parts in the Bentayga EWB, but the one everyone will care about is the Airline Seat – an £8,400 option – in the back. This business-class, tech-laden seat reclines on the passenger side of the car, folding forward the front seat and revealing a foot rest. The idea is you can lie back and have a snooze – but it’s not really designed for tall people.

It has massaging pads that also constantly adjust to ensure great posture and sense the occupant’s body temperature every 25 milliseconds to make heating adjustments up and down. Four-wheel steering has also been added, reducing the turning circle, while dynamic ride – which cuts body roll – is now standard and makes for a relaxed drive.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

The EWB features the firm’s proven 4.0-litre 32-valve twin turbocharged V8 petrol engine. It’s quite a lump, delivering 542bhp and 770Nm of torque. The benchmark 0-60mph dash takes 4.5 seconds and it will go on to 180mph. Likely to follow is a hybrid, already available in the shorter wheelbase model. An electric option is bound to arrive at some point, too.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

For a big SUV, the Bentayga is noticeably quiet even when being hustled along. Thick glass on the windows keeps the noise down considerably. The four-wheel steering makes it easier to manoeuvre, but despite this, you can’t hide the fact that it’s still a lengthy luxury car.

And while it’s rather unlikely to ever venture off road, the Bentley has a drive dynamics mode or optional all-terrain mode to assist. These offer up to eight modes – four for on and four for off road – allowing drivers to toggle between settings for the road surface.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

Even hardened Bentley fans will have their work cut out spotting the new model from

THE KNOWLEDGE

Bentley Bentayga EWB

Price (as tested): £211,400

Engine: 4.0-litre 32-valve twin turbocharged V8 petrol engine

Power: 542bhp Torque: 770Nm

Max speed: 180mph

4.5 seconds

MPG (combined): 22mpg (est)

Emissions: 302g/km CO2

the old. There are four distinct changes – a longer profile, a new front grille, new 22-inch 10-spoke wheels and a repositioned sunroof further back in the car, although you’ll need a long neck to see that last one.

The grille takes its inspiration from the Flying Spur, with bright chrome vertical vanes in front of a black mesh, while the additional 180mm length has all been hidden in the rear door, making the EWB cabin 40mm longer than any other luxury SUV, says Bentley.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

Inside the Bentley it’s luxurious and comfortable. All seats are heated, ventilated and offer five massage programmes as standard. Naturally.

The Bentayga’s rear air-conditioning system has also been tweaked to only work when rear passengers are present, while ionisers make the air nicer to breathe. For those who fancy a tipple on the move, the optional Mulliner Console Bottle Cooler can chill a 750ml bottle of champers and there’s two handcrafted Cumbria Crystal flutes to drink from, too.

We found the Airline Seat great to use and comfy, but passengers over six foot won’t be able to stretch out fully. The doors have soft-close functions in the front, to avoid the need for slamming, while in the back a button can be pressed to close the now-longer doors.

Style

It may be difficult to spot the changes but there’s a new front grille and new 22-inch wheels.

The Bentayga EWB offers more comfort and refinement to buyers who are now shunning saloons.

Inside

The cabin is luxurious and comfortable, especially with the new Airline Seat.

TARGET BUYERS: Business people who need to relax in the back.

THE RIVALS:

Range Rover LWB Rolls-Royce Cullinan Audi Q7

KEY SELLING POINTS:

1. Comfy seats

2. Classy looks

3. Great ride comfort

DEAL CLINCHER:

Rear seats automatically sense body temperature to keep you comfortable.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

With 26 billion – yes, billion – configuration possibilities, Bentley buyers have a lot to pick from when specifying their Bentayga.

While most of that choice comes from the fact the manufacturer will match any colour you choose, there’s lots to tick on the options sheet, too. A new Azure specification focuses on ‘well-being’, while the S range delivers more driving performance.

WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?

Pistonheads said: ‘It’s just so utterly complete. Fast and agile; massive and massively comfortable; luxurious and sumptuously finished, yet bristling with tech.’

WHAT DO WE THINK?

While the changes are minimal, the Bentayga EWB offers more comfort and refinement to buyers who are now shunning saloons in favour of the luxury SUV. But the fact that it’s so hard to spot that the model has been extended is probably the new car’s greatest triumph.

THE KNOWLEDGE

Smart #1 Premium Price (as tested): N/A Engine: Rear electric motor with 66kWh battery

SMART #1

Smart is entering a new era with its #1. Ted Welford headed to Lisbon to put this new compact electric SUV to the test.

WHAT IS IT?

In recent years, Smart has been quite dormant. Switching to selling purely EVs in 2019, its ForTwo and ForFour city-aimed models with their tiny electric range (80 miles max) have had limited appeal. In recent years, the firm has sold only around 100 cars a month in the UK. But all that changes now with the #1 SUV (pronounced hashtag one).

WHAT’S NEW?

Previously owned by Mercedes-Benz’s parent company Daimler, Smart became a joint venture in 2019, half-owned by Mercedes still and half by Geely. The design of the #1 has been handled by Mercedes while Geely has looked after the engineering and it uses the latter’s new EV-only platform too.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

Orders don’t open until early 2023 and deliveries aren’t expected until September next year but there will be two powertrains available. The first is a regular rear-wheel-drive setup, while a flagship 422bhp Brabus model will also be offered..

We’re trying the ‘standard’ car here, which uses a rear motor producing 268bhp and 343Nm of torque, which are healthy figures next to rivals. Getting from 0-60mph takes 6.5 seconds, while the #1 can hit 112mph when maxed out. A 66kWh battery is also used, allowing for a claimed range of up to 273 miles. You can also charge it at up to 150kW, which can take it from 10 to 80 per cent in under half an hour.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

By class standards the #1 performs well. Although these are still ‘pre-production models’, it feels almost there in that respect.

There’s lots of pace, and few will be left wanting more power on a day-to-day basis, while thanks to the large glass area, visibility is another strong attribute. The plentiful safety equipment also makes driving through the city much easier. Out on the open road, you’re able to select the level of weight you want to the steering, with ‘heavy’ giving plenty of feel, even if there’s quite a bit of roll through the corners.

The ride quality shows signs of being firm, but we’ll have to wait until we get the #1 in the UK before making a full judgment.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The #1 represents quite a departure from the brand’s current car, and even though the firm’s bosses say it’s ‘still a Smart car’, we’re not so sure there’s a clear link. There are subtle Mercedes influences, particularly with the LED light bars at the front and rear, but this is a funky-looking crossover that stands out on the road.

There are some great details, such as the pop-out door handles that sit flush with the car when driving or when parked, while the ‘floating roof’ and funky wheel designs are other neat touches.

This might be a modern-day Smart but the sense of fun remains.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The interior is a real highlight, particularly from a spacious point of view. The floating centre console gives a huge storage area underneath, while the amount of room in the rear seats is superb and far superior to that of rivals.

The downside is that the 313-litre boot is quite small, but there’s a dedicated area under the floor to store the cables.

Dominating the interior is a new 12.8-inch touchscreen for the vast majority of controls. It can be fiddly at first, mainly thanks to the sheer number of functions, but it’s superresponsive and clear to use.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Standard equipment is very generous, with a 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, electric and heated front seats plus 64-colour ambient interior on the entry-level Pro+.

A Premium trim brings leather seats, a Beats sound system and head-up display, while the flagship Brabus has lots of Alcantara and the huge bump of power, Smart is yet to confirm prices, but the firm’s UK boss hopes it will start from around £35,000. If it can stick to that, it looks to be well priced next to the opposition.

WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?

Car magazine said: ‘It might not be a Smart as you know it, but it’s their most convincing car yet.’

WHAT DO WE THINK?

Reinventing a brand renowned for such a bold and niche product was always going to be tricky, but the #1 feels like a big step in the right direction for Smart. Yes, it might be another SUV, but the #1 ensures Smart remains to exist in the future, and the sense of fun and style of the original Smart car shines through here.

It’s refreshingly different in a class not known for its bravery. It’s unlikely to challenge the best, but promising plentiful equipment, loads of technology and generous cabin space, the #1 has plenty of reasons to make you consider it.

Style

The #1 is a funky-looking crossover with some neat touches such as popout door handles and a ‘floating roof’.

TARGET BUYERS:

Young, environmentallyconscious families wanting to stand out from the crowd.

THE RIVALS:

Hyundai Kona Electric Mini Countryman Volkswagen ID.3

KEY SELLING POINTS:

1. Fun design

2. Loads of interior space

3. Generous equipment levels

DEAL CLINCHER:

Inside

The interior is a real highlight of the new Smart and is dominated by a 12.8-inch toouchscreen.

The funky Smart that’s known and loved has been entirely repackaged into a desirable SUV.

The sense of fun and style of the original Smart car shines through here.

ALFA ROMEO TONALE

THE KNOWLEDGE

Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce 1.5 160 MHEV DCT

Price (as tested): £42,595 Engine: 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol

WHAT’S NEW?

The grille and headlight designs might be traditionally Alfa Romeo but this is a completely new car for the Italian firm – and it needed to be, let’s face it. This is the first ‘electrified’ Alfa Romeo. In fact, there will be no solely petrol or diesel versions, as the new baby SUV is being positioned as the first step towards Alfa becoming a pure-electric carmaker in 2027.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

Just hybrids. The first version to arrive in showrooms just about now is the 158bhp 1.5-litre mild-hybrid. Appearing early next year is the range-topper and the most potent with 272bhp and four-wheel drive.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The steering, just like it is in the Giulia and Stelvio, is surprisingly alert and direct. You could call it a bit overactive for such a car, but it helps give the Tonale a pleasing USP in a sea of depressingly similar SUVs.

The chassis is pretty good too, feeling alert and willing to be wrestled into a series of twisting S-bends, should you want to do that in your hybrid SUV. The ride is similarly polished and the car works well on undulating and pot-marked roads. Our Veloce test car added adaptive dampers, but we never felt the need to slacken off or sharpen them up.

All cars, though, get Alfa’s DNA switch (‘D’ for dynamic, ‘N’ for natural and ‘A’ for advanced efficiency) and the Tonale suits Dynamic mode best with its slightly sharper throttle and gearbox settings.

The black mark is the hybrid powertrain, though. Low-speed manoeuvres are pleasingly carried out in EV mode, and for the most part the car deals with petrol and the odd burst of electric power well. Occasionally, however, the car dithers, not knowing which power source to be in, leading to annoying dead spots in acceleration. It’s in this area we reckon the plug-in hybrid will perform better.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

Alfa points to various design elements that have been taken from famous earlier models, such as the waistline from the 1960s GT, the rear window’s pointed bottom edge being just like the 147’s, and the headlights with their three semi-circular LEDs being present on everything from the 159 to the SZ coupe. The wheels, all ‘teledials’ in design, are just the

James Batchelor gets behind the wheel of this crucial new Alfa Romeo.

TARGET BUYERS:

who have probably never considered an Alfa Romeo before.

THE RIVALS:

E-Pace

KEY SELLING POINTS:

1. Big

Under the bonnet

The 1.5-litre mild-hybrid petrol produces 158bhp and 240Nm of torque.

icing on the Panettone cake. It’s a design that works really well, in fact, and the Tonale does look different from its nearest BMW and Jaguar rivals.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The fit and finish and general touch and feel of the leathers, soft-touch plastics and flashes of fake metal are all good. The Tonale feels pleasingly sturdy and premium and easily has the measure of a Jaguar E-Pace, for example.

The tech is the major improvement, though. The traditional Alfa Romeo ‘cannocchiale’ instrument binnacle is now all digital and it’s joined by a large touchscreen. Both look great with the former sporting 1960s-esque digital clocks, and the latter actually being easy to use. Elsewhere, the interior is spacious enough but not enormously so, and the 500-litre boot is more than big enough.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

There are just two main trims for the time being, with a third model – the Speciale –available for a short while.

Entry-level Ti gets 18-inch alloys, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 12-inch digital dials and a reversing camera. On top of that are matrix full LED headlights, an electric tailgate, keyless entry and adaptive cruise control. Veloce, which Alfa expects will take around 70 per cent of sales, adds black exterior detailing, 19-inch wheels, adaptive suspension, red brake callipers and those large aluminium gearshift paddles.

Prices kick off at £38,595 for the Speciale launch model (which gets the Veloce’s spec plus a few extra goodies), while the Ti and Veloce models come in at £39,995 and £42,495 respectively. Not cheap, but few cars are in this sector.

WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?

Autocar said: ‘The Tonale, like rather too many Alfa Romeos before it, stops notably short of perfection. But there’s plenty to distract you from its plainer herd of rivals.’ Top Gear said: ‘There’s enough going on here to deservedly distract you from a swathe of duller rivals. Hopefully the ownership experience will match.’

WHAT DO WE THINK?

The Tonale is a new kind of Alfa Romeo which, like it or hate it, is a bit more rational than more exuberant models that have come before. It’s a necessary step to make the fabled Italian brand more relevant to today’s finicky customer, and there is much to like.

It doesn’t excel in any one particular area, but neither does it merely exist – something which could be levelled at many a rival. It’ll be interesting to see if Alfa can finally convince buyers to part with their cash, and whether the good times will return with the company’s adoption of the agency sales model next year.

in material quality

drive

Tech is easy to use

DEAL CLINCHER:

Styling stands out from the traditional small premium SUV rivals.

Inside

The fit and finish of the cabin are all good, giving the Tonale a sturdy and premium feel.

It’ll be interesting to see if Alfa can finally convince buyers to part with their cash.

WHAT CAR COMPANIES DOES GEELY OWN?

The Chinese automotive group is growing – and quickly. Ted Welford reports.

To many, Geely will be a relatively unknown car firm. But on a global scale, this is a hugely important carmaker that has the potential to send shockwaves across the entire automotive landscape.

It came to the forefront recently after acquiring a 7.6 per cent share in Aston Martin, as Geely looks to have a more significant foothold in ‘legacy’ auto brands.

Only founded in 1997, Geely (full name: Zhejiang Geely Holding Group) now has a number of well-known brands under its umbrella, along with several firms it has established itself. It’s also the largest privately owned Chinese car company. Here are the key brands that Geely owns or has a share in…

Lotus

Lotus had been a struggling firm for years, but after Geely became the majority stakeholder in this British brand in 2017 (owning 51 per cent of the company, with Malaysian firm Etika Automotive having the remaining 49 per cent), it’s since gone from strength to strength.

With an ambitious model offensive that starts with the new Emira sports car, Lotus will soon expand into higher-volume segments, such as with the Eletre SUV. Thanks to Geely’s investment, Lotus has been able to revamp its facilities and expand its portfolio significantly.

Polestar

Owned by the ‘Volvo Car Group’ as part of the Geely arrangement, Polestar only began producing its first cars in 2020 but it managed to deliver 29,000 of them in 2021.

Benefiting from the technology and powertrains of Volvo, Polestar’s cars excel with their striking designs and focus on sustainability. The Polestar 3 will soon launch as its first SUV, and is expected to boost sales significantly.

Lynk & Co

Lynk & Co is the first of Geely’s ‘own’ brands to make their entry into Europe, with this firm already selling in markets such as Denmark, Germany and Spain. It’s also set to expand into the UK, with a planned launch for 2023.

The brand’s sharply styled ‘01’ is the model that’s really gaining momentum, with a key part of the car’s success being the subscription ‘ownership’ model under which it’s sold.

Zeekr

It goes to show what a success Geely has become that it’s now developing its ‘own-brand’ premium models, and Zeekr aims to satisfy the demand for more luxurious electric cars.

Its first one – the 001 – went into production last year at an advanced 5G+ factory and uses a new platform plus a ‘fully integrated user ecosystem’.

Proton

Proton is the national car brand of Malaysia and one in which Geely has had a 49.9 per cent stake since 2017, when it became its strategic partner.

If it’s a name that rings a bell, that’s because Proton sold a number of models in the UK between 1989 and 2014, although the brand is highly unlikely to ever return here.

Volvo

Perhaps the most well-known brand here in the UK that falls under the Geely umbrella is Volvo. A deal was struck in 2010 with the Swedish firm’s previous owner Ford, and since then the brand has continued to grow, particularly in the true ‘Geely’ era when the secondgeneration XC90 launched in 2015. The upscale investment has seen Volvo grow into one of the more popular premium brands, aided in particular by the XC40 SUV, which uses a platform shared with other models in the Geely family.

LEVC

Geely has quite a vested interest in the UK, as not only does the Chinese automotive giant own Lotus but also the London Electric Vehicle Company, aka LEVC.

You might not have heard of LEVC but you’ll have seen the TX – a modernised version of the iconic London taxi. Dominating the capital’s taxi sales, the TX is a range-extender model that helps drivers reduce their running costs and emissions.

LEVC also offers an electric van called the VN5, and both are made in a factory near Coventry.

Geely Auto

Alongside its other brands, Geely also sells cars under its own name – Geely Auto. With more than 1.38m cars shifted in 2021, it’s a pretty big deal –in fact, Geely Auto has been the biggest Chinese automaker for the past five years.

Its range is rather extensive too, incorporating seven saloons, 10 SUVs and one MPV, and it is increasingly putting a greater focus on zeroemissions model – something that’s particularly important in China.

Smart Geely’s portfolio is vast, and since 2019 it has been in a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz concerning the Smart Automobile Co – best known for its Smart car. Designed by Mercedes then engineered and manufactured by Geely, the first new Smart is just launching with the #1.

It’s Smart’s first SUV and a radical departure from the small city cars we’re used to from the firm, although these higher-volume segments are set to be key to this brand’s future success.

Geometry

One of Geely Auto’s newest brands, Geometry focuses purely on electric cars and was established in 2019.

It officially launched its ‘G6’ saloon and ‘M6’ SUV for the Chinese market in August 2022, with these models built around Geometry’s own platforms.

Picture of the month

Debt agency is harassing me over a fine that’s not mine

Just had two letters demanding two lots of £115 within five days from a debt collection agency for a parking offence for a car that was sold some time back. The car came with no V5 so I applied for one in the garage’s name and it was sold to a customer in London 100 miles away.

The change of ownership was made on the V5 and posted to DVLA seven months ago with the new owner’s details. (I presume the offence was committed between the invoice date and the date DVLA changed the keeper’s details.)

I spoke to the agency saying I have the invoice for the sale with the date confirming it wasn’t owned by me when the offence was committed. All they said was it must be paid within five days to avoid bailiffs and that although the invoice shows the date of sale, it might not have been delivered until after the offence.

The details they got from DVLA at the time must have shown my garage as the registered keeper, even though I have proof that I wasn’t the owner at that time.

They insist on payment for both within five days or they will instruct bailiffs to visit and seize goods. On their letter it states that this will cost me £276 for each letter, and when the goods are auctioned off there is a further charge of £110 to cover auction fees.

Surely this can’t happen without a court case?

I would email over a copy of the invoice and tell them to desist from harassing you. In future, make sure the invoice states day, time and a signature confirming handover time to the minute. Finally, always electronically advise DVLA of change of ownership, print everything off, attach it to the invoice and file it for seven years.

It’s me

We have had a few of these and I just send a confirmation email from the DVLA showing I no longer own the car. It doesn’t matter when I delivered it, the fine must go to the recorded keeper of the car.

Justina3

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Glevum

Chris Rea – he of The Road To Hell and Driving Home For Christmas fame – hasn’t been in the best of health in recent years, sadly, but that hasn’t put the rock musician off his passion for painting. Now a collection of 68 pieces by Rea inspired by his love for Ferrari and its history is to be auctioned on November 5 and 6 by Anglia Car Auctions. Rea’s father, Camillo, came from Italy and took him to see the Grand Prix at Monza and they enjoyed the Mille Miglia together as well, kickstarting his enthusiasm for motorsport.

We’ve teamed up with Car Sales Memes to bring you a few of their funniest captions and slogans each month. Enjoy!

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COOL

It feels as if there’s been a big push on the products front of late, with some big releases coming from key firms in the business. You might remember that last month we saw some major new items from Apple – well, Google is now set for some of its own reveals this month, so let’s dive in and see what the world of cool stuff has to offer this October.

Standardised phone chargers

A new ruling is going to affect how we charge our devices in the future. The EU has said that all phones, tablets and cameras will have to use USB-C connectors by 2024, ending the run of Apple’s famous ‘Lightning’ connection.

It’s not entirely clear how this will affect UK consumers, however. The British government had stated that it wouldn’t be following the EU’s ruling, but given that this announcement will affect thousands of new devices, it may apply to the UK all the same.

Focal

The wireless active noisecancellation headphone market is awash with options, but one of the latest to arrive is the Bathys, from Focal. Made in France, they’re a high-end set of ‘cans’ that bring up to 30 hours of battery life and a variety of features. They’re an eyewatering price, but Focal compensates for that with highquality materials – the headband is crafted from magnesium, for instance – as well as a truly premium sound.

Sonos Sub Mini

Sonos is one of the best-known names in the audio business and its latest creation is the Sub Mini. It’s a wireless subwoofer that’s smaller and more affordable than Sonos’s existing offering, the Sub.

Its balanced sound can be paired up with other

Google Nest Upgrades

£179.99

Nest Doorbell

Google’s Nest system helps you to connect various areas of your home to one central system, with aspects such as doorbell cameras and smart thermostats all controlled via one Google-based setup.

Google has now updated its Nest Doorbell to allow it to be wired into the connection used for an old ‘traditional’ doorbell, plus it can deliver updates and alerts quicker than before. Google’s Home app has also undergone a hefty redesign to make it easier to use, too.

LAMBORGHINI URUS PERFORMANTE

WHAT COMPETITION DOES IT FACE?

This performance SUV has a number of key rivals. Jack Evans compares and contrasts.

Lamborghini recently unveiled the Urus Performante as a more focused and powerful version of its popular SUV. With 657bhp and far less weight than the standard Urus, it’s wading into battle with some serious firepower. But what is it going up against in its quest for performance SUV supremacy? Let’s take a look.

Aston Martin DBX707

Aston Martin’s DBX707 is one of the Urus’s primary rivals, with this SUV bringing a whole lot of performance from its 4.0-litre twinturbocharged V8 engine.

But Aston Martin hasn’t just thrown an uprated engine into the DBX707 – it’s also heavily revised its suspension, fitted a new wet-clutch gearbox and even gone for a new exhaust to ensure that this model drives as well as possible.

Porsche Turbo GT

Porsche’s Cayenne has often been seen as one of the more focused SUVs on the market today, and the range-topping Turbo GT adds some extra firepower to the mix. With its 4.0-litre turbocharged V8, it has 631bhp and can nail the 0-60mph sprint in just 3.1 seconds.

The Turbo GT is also lower and stiffer than the regular Cayenne, while larger brakes and grippier tyres are both fitted as standard.

Range Rover Sport V8

The new Range Rover Sport has only recently been unveiled, arriving with a bold new look and an innovative interior. While plug-in hybrid powertrains will no doubt be the go-to choice for more fuel-conscious Sport drivers, it’s the full-fat V8 that’ll attract keener motorists. A racier SVR model will also likely arrive in the future. With 523bhp, the 4.4-litre supercharged engine enables the Sport to go from 0-60mph in just 4.3 seconds.

Bentley Bentayga S You might think comfort is the name of the game for Bentley – and usually this would be true – but performance is definitely the key thing for the Bentayga S.

Designed to be the most focused version of Bentley’s popular SUV, the S incorporates electric anti-roll control technology to help it in the bends, while a revised sport mode adds weight to the steering and firms up the suspension.

A new sports exhaust is also fitted to the S, ensuring it sounds even more noticeable.

Ferrari Purosangue

Revealed in full in September, Ferrari’s new SUV has arrived in the segment with a particular focus on dynamics.

After all, the Italian firm’s vehicles are some of the sharpest around, so it’s no surprise that this has filtered through into the Purosangue.

It’ll certainly be one for the Urus to watch.

BUSINESS NEWS

A ROUND-UP OF WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS THE UK

INCREASE

FIRST

Virgin Atlantic joins global airline alliance

Tasty result as sales rise at Greggs thanks to lure of value meals

GREGGS’ sales jumped by 15 per cent over the past three months as cash-conscious consumers opted for value meals.

The bakery chain said sales slowed during August as people ditched the staycations that had been fuelled by the pandemic but the momentum returned in September.

It said the sales increase comes ‘in an environment where cost pressures are significant and our outstanding value-formoney positioning is ever-more important to consumers’. It made no changes to its full-year profit guidance.

Vodafone and Three discuss merger

MOBILE networks Three and Vodafone hope a combination of their UK operations can help them compete with their rivals in the rollout of 5G, they have revealed.

The owners of the networks said they are in talks about a deal that would create a new major player in the UK mobile market.

Vodafone would own 51 per cent of the new business.

VIRGIN Atlantic has joined global airline alliance SkyTeam.

Some members of its frequent flyer scheme will now have access to more than 750 airport lounges.

Other benefits include extra baggage allowances when flying with SkyTeam airlines such as Aeromexico, China Airlines and Vietnam Airlines. It’s the first UKbased airline to join the alliance.

INTEREST RATES

‘Dramatic’ hikes might not be necessary – Bank

THE Bank of England’s deputy governor of monetary policy has questioned whether ‘dramatic’ hikes in interest rates are necessary amid signs global prices are stabilising. It remains to be seen whether base rates will rise to the level that markets predict, Ben Broadbent told students at Imperial College London. In a speech, he said: ‘Whether official interest rates have to rise by quite as much as currently priced in financial markets remains to be seen.’

RESULTS

Co-op profits fall amid soaring costs

THE Co-op Group has revealed a sharp slide in profits for the past six months in the face of surging energy and labour costs.

The retail and funeral care firm revealed that pre-tax profits tumbled by 84 per cent to £7m over the six months to July 2, compared with £44m over the same period last year.

Meanwhile, sales slowed to flatline over the half-year at £5.6bn.

GAMBLING

Betfred fined almost £2.9m for ‘alarming’ failures

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE!

Finance Provider of the Year (Sub-Prime)

GAMBLING giant Betfred has been fined almost £2.9m over social responsibility and money laundering failings, the gambling watchdog has announced.

The Gambling Commission said it had penalised the bookmaker over ‘alarming’ failures. They included a customer being allowed to lose £70,000 in a 10-hour period just one day after opening an account.

Flaws were also found in controls to prevent money laundering.

INDUSTRY VIEWS

NEWS AND THOUGHTS FROM CAR DEALER LIVE

AUTO TRADER

The market has definitely softened, particularly from the levels we were seeing last year.

Demand for used cars remains strong despite concerns over cost of living

emand for used cars is still strong despite cost-of-living concerns – and is set to continue.

That’s the view of Auto Trader, whose chief commercial officer Catherine Faiers told Car Dealer that the used car market was currently ‘robust’.

Speaking to us in an exclusive video interview, she said: ‘When we look at the data, it isn’t as bad as some of the headlines suggest –particularly the headlines on the macroeconomic environment and cost-of-living pressures.

‘The market has definitely softened, particularly from the levels we were seeing last year.

The Auto Trader director explained that while the headlines say used car transactions are down, on a gradual level in certain segments they are up – a sign that the automotive segment is ‘insulated’ from recent macroeconomic events.

‘In Q2, transactions for cars five years and older were up, and up quite strongly. So when the supply of vehicles is there and available in the market, the demand is pretty strong.

‘It’s the sub-five-year category where we’ve seen multiple years of weak new car transactions beginning to play through to that supply volume.

Catherine Faiers Auto Trader’s chief commercial officer

Driven by

DEALER

‘But, overall, it actually remains a pretty robust used car market. We’re still seeing engagement levels well ahead of 2019 volumes, and we’re still seeing 64m visits a month – all-time retailer highs – on our marketplace.’

‘Overall, the headlines hide a bit of the underlying story, and what’s actually going on is that the automotive market is insulated to some extent from some of the bigger, very significant macroeconomic shifts that we’ve seen.’

In the interview, Faiers explains that consumers still want to buy used cars.

CAR AND CLASSIC Cazoo wanted Cazana’s used car data for itself

– that’s why it spent £25m on buying the firm

The former boss of used car data firm Cazana has spoken about selling the firm to Cazoo.

In this Car Dealer Podcast, Tom Wood explains that Cazoo wanted the used car data insights firm for itself.

Cazana used to sell its data to car dealer groups and manufacturers, but since Cazoo snapped it up for £25m in September 2021, those services have been slowly brought to a halt.

Wood and his team left the business when the deal was done and he is now concentrating on running Car and Classic, the specialist marketplace for classic cars.

Wood said: ‘I think they wanted the technology and the data for internal use. And they continue to use that.

‘I think there are kind of ongoing contracts that they’ve kind of run out with them. But I think the intention was they wanted to shift a lot of cars, and they are shifting a lot of cars, and they wanted that data for their own purposes internally.’

Wood also tells how his offer to buy the Car and Classic website was rejected at first but the owners returned a few years later to take him up on the deal. Buying the website was like a ‘barn find’, he said – it had great potential but needed some serious tinkering to get it performing.

Shock rise in used car prices in September

For the first time this year prices of used cars have risen. September saw trade values jump by 0.3 per cent, reversing nearly a year of declines.

Speaking exclusively to Car Dealer, Cap HPI’s director of valuations Derren Martin declared the uplift ‘surprising’.

‘That’s as strong as it has been,’ he said. ‘For the last few months we’ve see a plateauing of the market – it’s been very flat. While we have got an upward movement, it’s only 0.3 per cent, which is less than £50, but it’s still an upward movement [which shows] the trade market has been particularly strong and

September’s rise was the first since October 2021.

Back then, prices rose by 1.2 per cent off the back of a 5.6 per cent increase in September 2021. From November 2021 to August this year, values have inched downwards.

But with prices up by nearly 30 per cent throughout 2021, it led Cap HPI to describe the market as ‘plateaued’ for most of 2022.

Martin said: ‘You have to go back to 2016 to see the last downward movement in a September, but what is unusual [this year] is the flat period we’ve had before [this September’s rise].’

The retail market in September was ‘steady, slightly down’, said Martin, adding: ‘It’s not to the levels dealers would like it to be. But the trade market has surprised us by being so robust and upbeat.’

In answer to whether September’s rise was something for dealers to really pay attention to, Martin said: ‘I think dealers need to still be wary – the market is going up. There’s low supply in the market as we haven’t really seen an influx of vehicles from September yet.

‘What’s driving that upward movement is dealers buying but not overstocking. Dealers must be wary, as values will drop at some point this year. It might not be October but it’ll come and it won’t be a crash.’

New car margins will be the saviour of car dealership results in 2022

New car margins will be the saviour for car dealership results in 2022 as the buoyant used car market comes to an end.

That was the opinion of Vines BMW boss Sean Kelly when he took part in the Car Dealer Podcast.

Other topics that Kelly spoke about included rising interest rates as well as his dealership’s huge energy bills.

The BMW and Mini dealership boss told Car Dealer his firm was forecasting to close September up on last year but used car sales had dropped.

He said: ‘Used cars are down compared to last year, but it’s no surprise because it was the

halcyon days of favourable conditions.

‘But what’s absolutely evident is where new car supplies have been constrained earlier in the year, we’re now seeing a release of some of those vehicles coming through our business.

‘And the business that we’ve written on those new cars is very strong because of the supply-anddemand matrix.

‘So the improvement in writing new car business is offsetting any of that used car degradation, even though used cars are still at a really, really high level of profitability.’

He also said his dealerships were beginning to see signs of consumer confidence dipping.

Watch our Car Dealer Live broadcasts as they go out or catch up on any that you’ve missed at: cardealermagazine.co.uk/live

CAP HPI

Used cars are down compared to last year, but it’s no surprise because it was the halcyon days of favourable conditions.

Sean Kelly Vines BMW boss

Derren Martin Cap HPI’s director of valuations

The trade market has surprised us by being so robust and upbeat.

VINES BMW

FINANCE

CONSULTATION

Bank customers set to have more protection from scams

by John Bowman john@blackballmedia.co.uk

Banks and building societies will have stronger incentives to prevent scams happening in the first place, as well as having to reimburse victims who have been tricked into transferring money to a fraudster, under a regulator’s proposals.

The Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) has published a consultation to usher in greater consumer protections from authorised push payment (APP) scam losses.

Kate Fitzgerald, interim head of policy at the PSR, told the PA news agency that the plans would ensure a more consistent approach for customers, ‘levelling the playing field’.

Under the proposals, both the sending and receiving banks will bear the responsibility for allowing fraudulent payments, giving banks that have accounts held by fraudsters further incentives to act.

The government has previously said that the PSR will be able to require banks to reimburse APP scam losses under measures in the Financial Services and Markets Bill.

Many banks have already signed up to a voluntary industry code, but there have been concerns that it hasn’t been applied consistently and the level of protection from scams that people are getting depends on whom they bank with.

Some providers also operate their own fraud guarantees, leading commentators to suggest that people face a ‘lottery’ as to whether they will get their money back.

The regulator is now consulting on specific proposals that would put that mandatory reimbursement in place for all online and mobile payments. Reimbursement would be on all payments over £100 and subject to an excess of no more than £35.

FIGURES

New business volumes grow by five per cent

LATEST figures from the Finance & Leasing Association show that consumer car finance new business volumes grew in August 2022 by five per cent versus the same month in 2021.

The corresponding value of new business increased by 13 per cent over the same period.

In the first eight months of 2022, new business volumes remained five per cent higher than in the same period in 2021.

The consumer new car finance market reported growth in new business of two per cent by value, but a fall of six per cent by volume in August compared with the same month in 2021.

In the first eight months of 2022, new business volumes in this market were six per cent lower than in the same period in 2021.

The consumer used car finance market reported new business up 19 per cent by value and eight per cent by volume in August compared with the same month in 2021.

In the first eight months of 2022, new business volumes in this market were 10 per cent higher than in the same period in 2021.

TIME IS MONEY

A MONTHLY LOOK AT THE WORLD OF AUTOMOTIVE FINANCE AND MARKETING RICHARD PYGOTT

Our triumphs are down to the sheer effort of everyone

Part of our ethos here at First Response Finance is People-Service-Profit, and this drives our people and our business. We believe that if you recruit and invest in the right people, they will produce an excellent service and returning customers. This then produces profit, which we reinvest back into our people.

Our people have a strong understanding of our company’s vision and values, and we truly believe in putting our dealers and customers at the heart of what we do. We are always chasing perfection and we always seek feedback from our customers, dealer network and staff on how we can continually improve our service.

To better understand how well we are doing, we listen to the feedback of our customers and dealers about our service and non-prime finance product.

Our company was named the Best Car Finance Provider and Firm of the Year at the Consumer Credit Awards 2022 last month. We won this award last year as well, and thousands of our customers voted for them both.

Every year we are nominated in the Car Dealer Power awards – an event that recognises companies within the automotive industry. Our dealer partners have just voted us Finance Provider of the Year (Sub-Prime) in the Car Dealer Power awards for the third consecutive year, meaning we have won the award on eight occasions in total!

Being recognised, nominated and winning these awards means a lot to us and is testament to our people. We believe that truly putting our customers at the heart of what we do means being there to support them when they need us most.

Besides delivering award-winning service, we also support our customers and dealers during the tough times. The national lockdowns didn’t stop our lending; we kept our phone lines open to support our dealers who were trading on a limited basis and to support our customers who were concerned about their agreements with us.

We wanted to ensure that even in times of uncertainty, change and chaos, our customers and dealers knew they could rely on First Response Finance.

Richard Pygott

digital marketer for First Response.

First Response Finance’s head of sales, Jonathan Such, said of our triumph: ‘We are really happy to receive it, and fortunately we are multiple winners, but the reason why we keep winning these awards, in my view, is due to the amount of effort everybody within First Response Finance puts into providing a class service to our dealers.

‘We supported our dealer network during the 2008 financial crisis, during the national lockdowns due to Covid-19, and we will support our dealers through the costof-living crisis, too.’ If you’re looking for a non-prime finance company that customers and dealers consider award-winning, look no further. Please give us a call on 0115 946 6365 or email us on marketing@frfl.co.uk

We truly believe in putting our dealers and customers at the heart of what we do. We are always chasing perfection.

WE’VE DONE IT AGAIN THANKS TO YOU!

Within two months we’ve won not one, but three awards- an achievement that we are all very proud of.

Our customers voted First Response Finance as the ‘Best Car Finance Provider’ in the Consumer Credit Awards 2022 for the second consecutive year. In addition to that, we’ve won the prestigious ‘Firm of the Year’ award!

The second recognition came from our dealer partners who voted us ‘Finance Provider of the Year (Sub-Prime)’ in the Car Dealer Power Awards. We are honoured to have won this award 8 times!

Vans, cars, motorbikes - it doesn't matter what type of vehicle we’re financing, our award- winning service remains the same.

SUPPLIER NEWS

A ROUND-UP OF WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Tighter control of fleet tyre budgets on horizon

NEW connected vehicle tech will soon let fleets improve tyre management after a 33 per cent rise in prices over the past two years.

That’s according to Epyx, whose. director of connected car at parent company Fleetcor Matt Waller said improved forecasting tools were on their way that will let fleets take tighter control over tyre budgets, meaning all buying and other tyre expenditure will be done via the most cost-effective channels.

Richard Jones to lead MotoNovo Finance

MOTORWAY/AA CARS

Partnership will mean more quality used stock

USED car marketplace Motorway has signed a deal with AA Cars to become its sole car-selling partner that will see it taking care of all its car valuations and sales inquiries.

The partnership with the motoring organisation will enable Motorway to connect with more than three million AA members plus car owners visiting the website looking for advice from the association. It’s part of an ongoing strategy by Motorway to increase consideration of its platform and ultimately drive even greater volume and breadth of quality stock for dealers.

V12 VEHICLE FINANCE STARTLINE

Smart PCP product to drive more sales

Families look to offload cars as they feel pinch

RICHARD Jones has been made the managing director of MotoNovo Finance.

He is joining it from Lloyds Banking Group, where he’s been CEO of its motor finance and leasing businesses since 2018, encompassing the Black Horse and Lex Autolease brands and online car finance. Jones, who will begin in early 2023, said: ‘I’m really looking forward to getting started and working with the teams.’

V12 VEHICLE Finance has launched a PCP product for its dealers to increase sales.

It’s fully integrated with all dealer systems and negates the need to juggle multiple platforms.

V12 says that what separates it from rival lenders is the fact it’s ‘platform-agnostic’ and doesn’t dictate which systems dealers need to use. V12 has already partnered with automotive tech leaders, with more leading partners set to follow.

THE cost-of-living crisis is forcing families to sell their cars.

That’s according to October’s Startline Used Car Tracker.

Almost one in four (23 per cent) of 304 consumers polled say they are already reducing or will reduce the number of cars, while 61 per cent say the squeeze on personal finances had changed their attitudes to car ownership for the worse. CEO Paul Burgess said there was no doubt that families were feeling the pinch.

APPOINTMENT

Being recognised, nominated and winning these awards means a lot to us.

Richard Pygott p55

STATISTICS

THE LATEST REGISTRATION FIGURES

Second month of growth in row as September marks one million EV milestone

by John Bowman @john@blackballmedia.co.uk

The UK’s new car market grew for the second month running in September, with registrations rising by 4.6 per cent according to the latest figures from the SMMT.

A total of 225,269 cars joined the roads in plate-change month, but although it was 9,957 units up on last year – when the industry recorded its weakest September since 1998 at 215,312 units – overall registrations were still some 34.4 per cent below pre-pandemic levels, as September 2019 saw 343,255 new cars registered.

On the bright side, EV uptake continued to rise, albeit at a slower rate than earlier in the year, with the second-highest monthly volume of battery-electric vehicle (BEV) registrations in history – up 16.5 per cent to 38,116 units.

But although registrations of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) declined by 11.5 per cent to 12,281 units, overall plug-in vehicles accounted for more than one in five new cars joining UK roads in the month. As a result, nearly a quarter of a million (249,575) have been registered in 2022 – meaning UK drivers and fleets have now registered more than one million plug-in EVs.

September also saw Britain’s millionth plug-in electric car registered, with the SMMT saying total BEV and PHEV registrations from January 2010 to September 2022 stood at 1,002,157.

Hybrid-electric vehicle registrations, meanwhile, grew by 16.5 per cent to 29,088 units, while sales of petrol-powered cars grew by 4.3 per cent to 126,873 units and diesels declined by 14.5 per cent to 18,911.

The industry is continuing to battle supply issues to fulfil a backlog of order, said the trade body, but registrations by large fleets grew by 12.5 per cent or 11,315 units, bucking recent trends. However, the SMMT said that was still a significant decline on pre-pandemic volumes at 39.7 per cent. Registrations to private buyers, meanwhile, fell by 3.6 per cent.

Total registrations for 2022 are also down 8.2 per cent on a weak 2021 performance and more than a third (35.1 per cent) below the first three-quarters of pre-pandemic 2019, equivalent to 653,903 fewer units.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: ‘September has seen Britain’s millionth electric car reach the road – an important milestone in the shift to zero-emission mobility. Battery-electric vehicles make up but a small fraction of cars on the road, so we need to ensure every lever is pulled to encourage motorists to make the shift if our green goals are to be met.

‘The overall market remains weak, however, as supply chain issues continue to constrain model availability.’

Nissan Qashqai

Tesla Model Y 8,315

Volkswagen Polo 6,476

Ford Puma 5,799

Kia Sportage 5,107

Ford Fiesta 4,570

Ford Kuga 4,520

Kia Niro 3,861

Hyundai Tucson 3,776

T-Roc 3,512

Click here to see our top 10 rolling sales charts for September 2021 to September 2022

September has seen Britain’s millionth electric car reach the road – an important milestone in the shift to zero-emission mobility.

JEEP

Marque

SEPTEMBER 2022 SEPTEMBER 2021

% market

TO DATE

Abarth 99 0.04 306 0.14 -67.65 1,100 0.09 2,021 0.15 -45.57

Alfa Romeo 285 0.13 253 0.12 12.65 1,303 0.11 1,154 0.09 12.91

Alpine 26 0.01 23 0.01 13.04 225 0.02 144 0.01 56.25

Audi 12,756 5.66 12,325 5.72 3.50 80,045 6.62 96,107 7.30 -16.71

Bentley 183 0.08 190 0.09 -3.68 1,243 0.10 972 0.07 27.88

BMW 13,443 5.97 15,747 7.31 -14.63 79,645 6.59 93,361 7.09 -14.69

Citroen 4,271 1.90 4,307 2.00 -0.84 22,807 1.89 24,262 1.84 -6.00

Cupra 2,722 1.21 1,328 0.62 104.97 10,473 0.87 5,428 0.41 92.94

Dacia 4,064 1.80 3,867 1.80 5.09 21,280 1.76 13,267 1.01 60.40

DS 551 0.24 536 0.25 2.80 2,595 0.21 1,726 0.13 50.35

Fiat 1,986 0.88 3,800 1.76 -47.74 15,396 1.27 16,059 1.22 -4.13

Ford 20,735 9.20 10,786 5.01 92.24 94,777 7.84 99,256 7.54 -4.51

Genesis 149 0.07 27 0.01 451.85 566 0.05 87 0.01 550.57 Honda 3,750 1.66 5,389 2.50 -30.41 19,444 1.61 22,548 1.71 -13.77 Hyundai 12,155 5.40 12,256 5.69 -0.82 64,094 5.30 52,931 4.02 21.09 Jaguar 1,595 0.71 1,844 0.86 -13.50 10,145 0.84 15,590 1.18 -34.93 Jeep 280 0.12 893 0.41 -68.65 2,036 0.17 3,839 0.29 -46.97 Kia 14,966 6.64 16,661 7.74 -10.17 83,105 6.88 74,096 5.63 12.16 Land Rover 4,775 2.12 5,352 2.49 -10.78 33,845 2.80 46,075 3.50 -26.54 Lexus 1,541 0.68 2,941 1.37 -47.60 7,170 0.59 12,024 0.91 -40.37 Maserati 91 0.04 115 0.05 -20.87 576 0.05 538 0.04 7.06 Mazda 4,637 2.06 4,500 2.09 3.04 18,648 1.54 21,903 1.66 -14.86 Mercedes-Benz 10,049 4.46 8,783 4.08 14.41 65,349 5.41 78,252 5.94 -16.49

8,759 3.89 5,452 2.53 60.66 38,312 3.17 22,951 1.74 66.93 Mini 5,261 2.34

0.00

6.53

2.66

0.35

0.65

1.91 27.76 32,229 2.67 30,852 2.34 4.46

0.02 0.00 0 0.00 5,125 0.39 0.00

4.59 48.89 52,808 4.37 52,265 3.97 1.04

3.16 -11.87 42,807 3.54 46,263 3.51 -7.47

0.12 207.03 3,925 0.32 2,425 0.18 61.86

0.35

11,948 0.99 8,036 0.61 48.68

2.46 -15.76 22,180 1.84 22,978 1.75 -3.47

2.31 -70.57 16,931 1.40 37,612 2.86 -54.99

2.81 5,939 2.76 6.63 35,849 2.97 46,515 3.53 -22.93

114 0.05 123 0.06 -7.32 1,055 0.09 1,094 0.08 -3.56

0.11 373 0.17 -31.10 1,207 0.10 1,124 0.09 7.38

232 0.10

2,071

0.29 -62.70 888 0.07 1,636 0.12 -45.72

-32.96 14,077 1.16 17,915 1.36 -21.42

32,218 2.67 22,148 1.68 45.47

-9.69 78,938 6.53 83,128 6.31 -5.04

-8.91 66,048

-8.35

72,241

36,421

-8.57

-24.01

-28.38

-7.41

-0.08

Figures supplied by SMMT

REGISTRATIONS OF NEW COMMERCIAL VEHICLES LESS THAN 3.5 TONNES

SEPTEMBER

September sees first month of growth in 2022

by John Bowman john@blackballmedia.co.uk

BRITAIN’S LCV market grew by 10.8 per cent in September with 34,950 vans sold, figures published on October 5 by the SMMT revealed.

It was the first month that registrations rose in 2022, as supply disruptions restricted model availability. But the trade body said the performance was artificially inflated compared with 2021, which at 31,535 saw the fewest registrations for the month since the 2009 recession.

The top-selling LCV was the Ford Transit Custom at 4,783.

Battery-electric vehicle deliveries, meanwhile, continued their upward trend, rising by 70.0 per cent to a market share of 4.4 per cent – up from 2.9 per cent in 2021.

TO DATE

Marque

% market share

market

Ford 13,356 38.21 11,896 37.72 12.27 81,385 38.11 91,151 34.11 -10.71

Vauxhall 3,918 11.21 2,205 6.99 77.69 22,200 10.39 24,913 9.32 -10.89

Volkswagen 3,777 10.81 2,419 7.67 56.14 19,514 9.14 28,318 10.60 -31.09

Peugeot 2,519 7.21 2,069 6.56 21.75 16,715 7.83 21,019 7.87 -20.48 Renault 2,274 6.51 2,140 6.79 6.26 9,291 4.35 12,913 4.83 -28.05

Citroen 1,946 5.57 1,417 4.49 37.33 16,789 7.86 18,995 7.11 -11.61 Mercedes 1,884 5.39 3,525 11.18 -46.55 15,099 7.07 22,719 8.50 -33.54 Toyota 1,121 3.21 1,946 6.17 -42.39 9,479 4.44 10,902 4.08 -13.05 Nissan 729 2.09 706 2.24 3.26 2,757 1.29 9,391 3.51 -70.64

Isuzu 569 1.63 377 1.20 50.93 3,016 1.41 2,988 1.12 0.94

Maxus 458 1.31 336 1.07 36.31 2,991 1.40 1,499 0.56 99.53 Fiat 455 1.30 899 2.85 -49.39 4,056 1.90 7,030 2.63 -42.30 Iveco 438 1.25 388 1.23 12.89 2,818 1.32 3,455 1.29 -18.44 Land Rover 349 1.00 305 0.97 14.43 1,617 0.76 2,830 1.06 -42.86 MAN 310 0.89 251 0.80 23.51 1,621 0.76 2,256 0.84 -28.15 Renault Trucks 259 0.74 150 0.48 72.67 1,546 0.72 1,769 0.66 -12.61 SsangYong 228 0.65

0.38 91.60 773 0.36 413 0.15 87.17 Isuzu Trucks 196 0.56

0.41 50.77 1,097 0.51 891 0.33 23.12 Suzuki 109 0.31

0.36 -4.39 280 0.13 314 0.12 -10.83 Fuso

0.13

0.05 193.33

0.08 156 0.06 14.10

REGISTRATIONS OF NEW COMMERCIAL VEHICLES 3.5  TONNES TO 6.0  TONNES

Figures supplied by SMMT

Figures supplied by SMMT

SUPPLIERS GUIDE

LOOKING FOR A MOTOR TRADE SUPPLIER? YOU CAN FIND THE DETAILS OF SELECTED COMPANIES HERE

Auctions & Trade-To-Trade Sales

BCA

W: bca.co.uk

T: 0344 875 3480

E: customerservices@bca.com

Info: BCA’s remarketing programmes deliver volume, choice and availability for buyers, and speed, efficiency and market-leading returns for sellers.

Automotive Ecommerce

GForces

W: gforces.co.uk

T: 01622 391904

Info: GForces delivers class-leading ecommerce solutions. We work with global vehicle manufacturers, the world’s largest dealer groups and independent retailers around the planet.

Data Real World Analytics

W: realworldanalytics.com

T: 0808 1890 617

E: auto@realworldanalytics.com

Info: We are a SaaS-based data analytics solution provider for multisite dealers. Our business intelligence tools help customers make faster and better decisions.

DMS

DealerDesk

W: dealerdesk.co.uk

E: contact@dealerdesk.co.uk

Info: Modernise your stock management, advertising, communication, sales and website. DealerDesk provides you with easyto-use tools designed to simplify your dealership management.

Finance

Blue Motor Finance

W: blue.co.uk

T: 020 3005 9331

E: dealersupport@blue.co.uk

Info: Blue is transforming the car finance market, making car ownership simple and flexible and providing motor traders with access to essential finance.

Finance

Close Brothers Motor Finance

W: closemotorfinance.co.uk/

Info: Close Brothers Motor Finance are a specialist finance provider, working with over 8,000 dealer partners to offer flexible finance solutions for car, motorcycle and LCV customers.

Finance

First Response

W: firstresponsefinance.co.uk

T: 0115 946 6317

E: marketing@frfl.co.uk

Info: First Response is an awardwinning UK finance company providing simple financial solutions. Get in touch and let us help increase your profits.

Finance

Forza Finance

W: forzafinance.co.uk

T: 01245 245678

Info: Benefit from Forza Finance’s expertise, choice of products and lenders. Their personal approach will help you achieve higher levels of finance penetration and, ultimately, sell more cars.

HR & People Management

HR Manager

W: hrmanager.co.uk

T: 01480 455500

E: info@hrmanager.co.uk

Info: HR Manager is Lawgistics’ new digital compliance portal designed to assist employers in managing their legal obligations, responsibilities and duties.

Insurance

Tradesure

W: tradesureinsurance.co.uk

T: 0121 248 9313

Info: Providing motor trade insurance to full- and part-time motor traders in the UK, the Tradesure team are reliable professionals who know how to help you.

Key Control

Traka

W: traka-automotive.com

T: 0333 355 3726

E: automotive@traka.com

Info: Bespoke software and electronic key management cabinets to deliver the most effective solution to dealerships to manage their keys and vehicles.

Lead Management

GardX AD-Vantage

W: gardx.co.uk/gardx-ad-vantage

T: 01243 376426

E: goforaspin@gardx.co.uk

Info: The award-winning 360 service offers an engaging display of the vehicle while additionally presenting profitable F&I products to a consumer.

Lead Management

iVendi

W: ivendi.com

T: 0330 229 0028

E: tellmemore@ivendi.com

Info: iVendi delivers a fully connected platform that engages consumers, converts buyers and manages transactions of vehicles online and in the showroom.

Legal & Compliance Lawgistics

W: lawgistics.co.uk T: 01480 455500

E: sales@lawgistics.co.uk

Info: The legal experts for the motor trade, giving advice and support to our industry for over 15 years. Not anti-consumer, just pro-trader.

Marketing, PR & Video

OnCue Communications

W: oncuecomms.com

T: 020 8125 3880

Info: We are a leading provider of PR, video and events services to the automotive industry. The PR team has a proven track record of securing high-value, big-impact media coverage.

Marketing, PR & Video

Marketing Delivery

W: marketingdelivery.co.uk/ T: 01892 599911

E: get.in.touch@marketingdelivery.co.uk

Info: Our SocialStock helps target prospects with tailored stock remarketing and social media advertising tools, and automated lead capture for Facebook.

Oil & Lubricants

Mobil™

W: mobil.co.uk

T: 0800 0857 420

Info: Whether using Mobil 1™ or Mobil Super™, Mobil™ engine oils meet or exceed the latest standards of the oil industry and vehicle manufacturers.

Trade Bodies

Ben W: ben.org.uk T: 0808 131 1333

Info: Ben is a not-for-profit organisation that partners with the automotive industry to provide support for life to its people and their families.

Vehicle Photography

Dealer 360

W: dealer360.co.uk

T: 01270 780855

E: nicky.spratt@ukturntables.com

Info: UK makers of photo booths incorporating our turntables for car, van and motorcycle dealers. Our software controls turntable and cameras – a onestop solution.

Vehicle Tracking

Meta Trak

W: metatrak.co.uk

T: 020 8867 2340

E: enquiries@metatrak.co.uk

Info: Total vehicle security. Clever tracking technology, advanced immobilisation, 24/7 monitoring and an easy-to-use app. Security. Connectivity. Peace of mind.

Warranty Providers

Autoprotect

W: autoprotect.co.uk

T: 01279 406888

E: sales@autoprotect.net

Info: AutoProtect offers a full portfolio of award-winning protection products, including GAP. We lead the market with an ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot.

Warranty Providers

Car Care Plan

W: carcareplan.com

T: 0344 573 8000

Info: Car Care Plan is a leading provider of motor protection products, trusted around the world to deliver quality protection with integrity and a customer-oriented outlook.

Warranty Providers

Momentum Warranties

W: momentumwarranties.co.uk

T: 0330 445 0059

E: support@momentumwarranties.co.uk

Info: How long does your warranty company make you wait? We pay claims into your bank within 45 minutes. The most advanced warranty programme in the UK.

Warranty Providers

Warranty Administration Services

W: warrantyadmin.co.uk

T: 01522 515600

E: tellmemore@warrantyadmin.co.uk

Info: Unlock new profit and aftersales flexibility with Crystal Clear Warranty. Ideal for franchised dealers, groups and independents.

Warranty Providers

Warrantywise

W: warrantywise.co.uk/dealer

T: 0800 001 4551

E: dealers@warrantywise.co.uk

Info: Warrantywise sells over 100,000 warranties per year.

Quentin Willson personally designed Warrantywise to be the UK’s best used car warranty.

Warranty Providers

WMS

W: wmsgroup.co.uk

T: 01844 293810

E: sales@wmsgroup.co.uk

Info: Open 24/7, we offer award-winning warranty products for FCA- and non-FCA-registered dealerships.

Website Design & Digital Marketing

Bluesky Interactive

W: blueskyinteractive.co.uk

T: 01926 651000

Info: Bluesky Interactive drive dealer websites and digital marketing forward thanks to game-changing innovation, the latest technology and our exceptional relationships with our clients.

Recruitment

WeRecruit Auto

W: werecruitauto.co.uk

T: 01603 550041

Info: Permanent recruitment – here to assist businesses within the automotive sector find the best fit for their company in terms of skillset, experience and culture.

Warranty Providers

Händler Protect

W: handlerprotect.com

T: 0800 088 7889

E: sales@handlerprotect.com

Info: Händler Protect is an exclusive dealer warranty provider. Proud to partner and represent more than 1,000-plus ‘active’ independent motor dealers across the UK each month.

included email sales@blackballmedia.co.uk and ask for

Website Design & Digital Marketing

Haswent

W: haswent.com

T: 020 3920 6164

E: hello@haswent.com

Info: Composer is a next-gen automotive platform. You have extensive stock management options, and you’ll gain a brilliantly responsive new website.

listings

SKODA

A new arrival for James Baggott has been a shock to the system. However, thankfully his sleep-deprived brain hasn’t been too tested by this SUV’s ability.

Although the latest arrival in our household is rather small, the amount of equipment he needs for sustainability is worryingly high.

While many warn of the sleepless nights and constant attention a newborn requires, no one really mentions the paraphernalia you’ll be required to cart around with you. How people manage to transport a pram, baby bag, car seat and baby in smaller cars is beyond me.

Our Skoda Kodiaq long-term loan car has been a welcome companion in these early days when I’ve been so tired I’ve put milk in the coffee jar rather than the cup.

The fact that it can swallow everything the little one needs without me thinking about how to pack it carefully has been a huge relief, especially when motor neuron functions are running at around 50 per cent.

While the seven-seat SUV has been with me these past few months I’ve asked a lot of its carrying capacity. The rearmost seats fold flat into the boot floor and give ample space for baby kit and shopping – a combination that I feel would foil most smaller cars. It’s also coped with numerous tip trips and two house moves with aplomb.

The Kodiaq is a fantastic all-rounder. One thing that has really struck me is how comfortable it is. I’ve put quite a few miles on the Skoda with several long trips – one to the Alps for a ski holiday and a round-Britain tour for a feature – and I’ve never got out aching. The seats are very comfortable, set at a nice height so as not to numb your legs, and they have plenty of adjustment. The controls are intuitive too and, when up to speed, it’s a relaxing car to drive.

I’ve written before about the sluggish gearbox so won’t moan about it again too much, but even now, several months into ownership, it grates that at times it can be so slow to pull away at junctions. It’s not the engine that’s at fault. The 200bhp diesel unit is full of grunt and, once past that first gear hurdle, is perfectly pacy. I point the finger firmly at the DSG gearbox that’s without doubt been engineered with a hesitation built in.

It really would put me off recommending the car – and that’s a shame, because for long journeys the diesel engine makes a lot of sense. I get around 58mpg on motorway legs, which is pretty good going.

The Kodiaq’s looks have really grown on me, too. At first, I wasn’t so sure, but the blue paint and black Sportline touches certainly look smart, and when it’s clean it really is rather handsome. However, I have experienced a few glitches lately. The multimedia system really does seem to have a mind of its own. On one trip I had to complete the drive in silence because the speakers stopped working.

I even tried the age-old off-and-on-again routine but that failed to fix it.

It was still doing it when I made the return journey later in the day, but a night of rest seemed to solve it. Very strange.

The screen also has moments of complete collapse and freezes. There’s no pattern to its failures, just that it renders all buttons on the screen unusable. I’ve had similar issues with other cars from the VW Group, notably Cupra models, but nothing quite as bad as this.

It’s the sort of problem that a dealer could only fix if they were doing it at the time I took it in, otherwise I’d have booked the Skoda in for a check-up.

Without these niggles, the Kodiaq would be highly recommended as the perfect family car.

The flexibility of the seven seats and huge boot make it a really useful SUV, and when compared to similar rivals it’s great value for money.

However, I’m struggling a little to get over those flaws.

THE KNOWLEDGE

Skoda Kodiaq Sportline

2.0 TDI 200PS DSG 4x4

Price (as tested): £47,630

Engine: 2.0-litre diesel Power: 200bhp Torque: 400Nm

Top speed: 133mph

Fuel economy: 41.5-42.8mpg (WLTP combined)

0-60mph: 7.9 seconds

Emissions: 179g/km CO2 Mileage: 8,347

This month’s highlight: Its effortless ability to swallow up our newborn’s paraphernalia.

OTHER CARS WE’RE DRIVING

Nissan Qashqai

Mileage: 14,441

Our long-term Nissan Qashqai is leaving us after seven months or so on the fleet. Farewell, OE21 NXC – you’ll be much missed.

Services that make a difference

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We underpin everything with straightforward tools and systems to simplify the finance journey and help you grow your business.

Find out how we can help you at www.blackhorse.co.uk