BMW

WVL's month-long Test Drive Event
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#TestDriveYourBestDrive 2016 – the Results are in!
#TestDriveYourBestDrive 2016 – the Results are in! https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/TDYBD-results-featured.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

The start of September marks the end of our month-long test drive event – from the early days of #SmallCarWeek through to the grand scale of #7SeaterWeek – our forecourt has been what feels like an Olympic-scale arena for this first-of-a-kind showcase of motoring might!  Now a time for reflection on proceedings, did Windsor Vehicle Leasing also strike gold? It’s a firm ‘YES’ as far as we’re concerned.

Firstly, we’re extremely grateful to all the manufacturers who have provided vehicles for the event – Audi, BMW, Fiat Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Mahindra, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Peugeot Citroen, Renault, Vauxhall, Volkswagen and Volvo. The collaboration has been much appreciated and the key-for-key swaps worked seamlessly. It showed the strength of our relationships and the confidence all the manufacturers have in their brands. No-one is afraid to stand comparison with anyone else. There seemed to be a consensus that what we were doing was a great idea, with more than one manufacturer pointing out that they couldn’t understand why no-one had come up with this concept before.

We would also like to thank the customers, existing and potential, who made the effort to come along and do the test drives. Hopefully they found the unique opportunity to compare brands and technologies worthwhile. In some instances, it was enough for visitors to sit in the cars; get that feeling which no amount of online research can replace.

WVL Test Drive event Small Car Week

WVL Test Drive Event, week 2 - Family Saloon Week

We’re aware that WVL may not necessarily see the direct benefits of this unique event, though it can only be a positive that we had so many visitors and enquiries. It was our intention to shake the tree during the traditionally quiet month of August and if the fruit fell elsewhere, then the industry was still the winner. It’s a bonus that we have quoted for and won business as a result.

The event was publicised through the local press and via social media across our Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn accounts where each individual car’s arrival was posted online. If some of the puns which accompanied the postings were excruciating, please allow for wordplay fatigue by Week 4! Nevertheless, good old footfall played a key part in us getting as many bookings as we did. Our position on Clarence Road usually guarantees interest from passing customers and there’s nothing like a line of new, gleaming cars to catch people’s attention.

WVL Test Drive Event, week 3 - SUV Week

WVL Test Drive Event, week 4 - 7-Seater Week

There’s no doubt, weeks three and four – the SUV and 7-seater weeks – provoked huge interest, as well as testing our forecourt organisation and parking skills. However, all four weeks, including small cars and family saloons, provided excellent opportunities, both for customers and the staff of WVL to familiarise themselves with the very latest models and technology, meaning Windsor Vehicle Leasing can continue to provide the most comprehensive and tailored customer experience.

There seemed to be a consensus that what we were doing was a great idea, with more than one manufacturer pointing out that they couldn’t understand why no-one had come up with this concept before.

It’s fair to say, the vehicles supplied showed that nowadays, there’s not really such a thing as a bad car. Probably the area of greatest change and progress is the on-board technology. Time in a vehicle is important. It would be easy to become a nervous wreck without exposure to and proficiency in the safety systems, including lane control, collision alerts and integrated braking systems. Even knowing how to start a car these days can be an adventure, though it’s always simple enough once you know! Interestingly, no-one seemed inclined to try the self-parking modes! Seems we still like control!

Of course the selection of vehicles not only gave many of our visitors the opportunity to have a fresh look at classic models, but also a first close-up look at relatively new technologies such as hybrids and electric cars.

For us at WVL, there was the bonus of a visit from a sporting icon. As you may have seen in our posts on the day, West Indian legend Gordon Greenidge, one of the finest opening batsmen of all time, took the opportunity to come by. Just for a while, the gleaming cars were outshone and talk of the off-drive replaced the test drive!

It is our firm intention to repeat this event in the future. Of course, others may try to do so in the meantime… but we’ll always know we were first!

If you’ve spotted something in the line-ups above, or would like a quote on a particular vehicle, please get in touch. Our Configurator allows you to spec-up a vehicle to your exact requirements, though we’d be happy to offer advice and suggestions if you’re at all unsure. Either way, try our online Quote Form, email us at [email protected], LiveChat with one of our leasing experts using the tab at the bottom of the screen, or simply call us on 01753 851 561, and let’s talk leasing!

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We now offer Personal Contract Purchase!
We now offer Personal Contract Purchase! https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/pcp-featured-2.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Looking for a non-business vehicle for a partner or family member? WVL now offer Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) – the smarter way to finance your personal motoring!

Key benefits:

low deposit

fixed monthly payments

option to purchase!
pcp-blog-disc-top
pcp-blog-focus

How it works

PCP is the ideal way to drive whilst keeping all your options open. Select your vehicle, pay an initial deposit followed by 35 fixed monthly payments, then, at the end of the agreement period, you can choose either to:

  1. Retain the vehicle:
    pay the optional final ‘balloon’ payment to own the vehicle;
  2. Return the vehicle, or
  3. Replace:
    part-exchange the vehicle, where equity is available, against a new model.

PCP is a personal finance option, and is not available to business users.

Vehicles in stock now – including: BMW, Citroen, Ford, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Volvo and the Fiat 500!

Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi 115 Titanium Navigation 5d
Registered 2014 (64)
Engine size 1,560cc
Fuel Diesel
Transmission Manual
Start mileage 5,800
Body type Hatchback
Colour Deep impact blue
Trim Black cloth
Availability In stock
Representative Example:
Monthly payment £218.65
Customer deposit £2,000
# Monthly payments 35
OTR cash price £14,495
Amount of credit £12,495
Interest charges £2,382.55
Total payable £16,877.55
Contract mileage p/a 10,000 miles
Excess mileage chg 9p / mile
Optional final payment £7,225
Fixed interest rate per year 7.00%
Representative APR 8.3%
Click for full details
pcp-blog-quote
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Switch On to Driving Electric
Switch On to Driving Electric https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Electric-featured.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

If leasing’s the budget-savvy way to drive, then ‘leasing electric’ is surely the ultimate win-win. Want to drive a high value, top-tech, greener than green vehicle for an affordable monthly fee… and with impossibly low running costs? Then leasing electric is the smartest way to drive!

Electric Vehicles

Back in the mid-2000s forward-thinking motorists (and fans of Logan’s Run and The Jetsons) firmly believed the industry was on the brink of an electric car revolution – that by 2010 every household would be refuelling their cars from a plug socket; petrol and diesel would be a reserve of the Classic car and our combined eco-drive would collectively be saving the planet from being greenhouse-gassed. The shift, however, didn’t come and electric vehicles (EVs) remained in their infancy.

But as more and more manufacturers have joined the EV race, the pace of development has picked up with many of the major car manufacturers investing millions of pounds into the development of electric/hybrid vehicles: BMW with their ‘game changing’ i3; Toyota with the ever-popular Prius; even McLaren with their hybrid hyper car the P1. Mainstream models rightly vie for today’s car-buyers’ attentions as taxes, fuel costs and eco-awareness continue to rise. The time is right, and this new technology is clearly here to stay.

Sales data reflects this upward trend: although there are only 13,000 electric vehicles on the UK roads, sales in Europe more than doubled in 2013 compared to 2012.

graph

Whilst gaining pace, the switchover to electric won’t happen overnight, not least due to lack of vehicle choice, but also because the change from petrol/diesel to electric is a mindset shift too, with anxieties over charging, recharging and range in particular. Let’s have a look at these in more detail and see if we can help switch you on to considering an EV for your next car!

Charging ahead

Charging an electric vehicle is much simpler than you think: every vehicle comes with a charging cable that can be plugged into a domestic plug socket. Of course, whilst most home sockets are suitable for EV charging, it’s worth checking with a qualified electrician to ensure that your wiring is up to the required standards. Once confirmed, plug in, recharge and drive!

For a range of approximately 100 miles, it will require around 6–8 hours’ AC charge in the UK, costing just a couple of pounds.

Manufacturers also offer higher power home charge units (around £1,000) which significantly reduce the recharge time, generally from 0 to 100% in 4 hours, some restoring 80% charge in just 30 minutes.

home-charging

 

Charging on the go

Since the UK Government made £30 million available to provide vehicle recharging points around the UK, infrastructure is already being put in place with eight ‘Plugged In Places’ so far securing the investment: East of England, Greater Manchester; London, Midlands; Milton Keynes; North East; Northern Ireland; and Scotland. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in city centre car parks such as this one we recently spotted in Manchester, will soon become a common site:

charging-station

 
There is also an increasing number of public DC fast-charge points such as Tesla’s ‘Supercharger’ and others for the e-Golf and BMW i3 providing 80% charge in just 30 mins – perfect for a coffee break on your road trip.

rcn-logoAlready supported by BMW, Nissan, VW and Renault and co-funded by the EU, the Rapid Charge Network across the UK and Ireland, so far provides recharging coverage for 1,100km of major roads. It’s growing fast: many service stations such as Welcome Break have had them installed already, and they’re being rolled out across IKEA, Waitrose and various other locations to give rapid recharges whilst drivers take a break or shop.

That said, since 85% of motorists charge either at home or at work, and given the range-per-charge (see below), these stations are not seen as a necessity for day-to-day driving or work commutes since an overnight charge should provide more than ample range for a typical day. Recharging on-the-go will only be needed when on longer journeys, and that’s no different to petrol/diesel; so for most of our motoring, charging up looks to be a far more convenient way to drive.

The technology really is there to give these new vehicles a natural place in our über-connected modern world. And of course, there are apps too – from monitoring your EV’s charge remotely via smartphone, to also helping you navigate to the nearest recharge station when your battery’s running low. EVs are now showing us the way forward.

charging-app

 

Current Trend

We’re catching on. The British market showed a rapid growth of EV sales this year, likely driven by the introduction of several new models.

  • Registrations of all-electric cars were up 132.9% year-on-year (and plug-in hybrid registrations were 261.4% up from a year earlier)
  • Jan – July: 3,058 plug-in electric cars were registered in the UK
  • …with the Nissan Leaf the most popular, selling 2,029 units, and a total of 5175 since its introduction in March 2011 – affirming its position as the UK’s top-selling plug-in electric car.

leaf

New EVs in 2014

There have been some superb EVs launched to the market this year – here are our favourites:

e-up

VW e-up!

Price: £19,270
Range: 93 miles
leaf

Nissan Leaf Acenta

Price: £23,490
Range: 124 miles
i3

BMW i3

Price: £25,670
Range: 80–100 miles
e-golf

VW e-Golf

Price: £25,845
Range: 118 miles
e-focus

Ford Focus Electric

Price: £28,580
Range: 100 miles
tesla

Tesla
Model S

Price: £49,900
Range: 240 miles
The Plug-in Car Grant program reduces the up-front cost of eligible cars by providing a 25% grant towards the cost of new plug-in cars, capped at £5,000. Both private and business fleet buyers across the UK are eligible for this grant.

The Tesla is arguably the most highly acclaimed EV of 2014 with the top spec model boasting a range of 312 miles, but the performance and luxury comes at a price at just under £50,000. The initial outlay for an EV is no doubt deterring many drivers with the majority of our list costing between £20,000 – £30,000 after grant, though prices will surely fall as manufacturing costs decrease over time.

tesla-costs

But factoring the cost per mile in terms of electricity (around 2–4p), zero road tax, zero Congestion Charge, great Benefit In Kind for business drivers, plus no more spark plugs, oil changes, timing belts, oil filters, smog checks etc… financial benefits will come as you drive. Don’t forget safety benefits too, with no fuel tanks to rupture or flammable spills in the event of an accident.

Lease your EV and have the best of both worlds!

Whilst the initial outlay does reflect manufacturers’ investment in new technologies and designs for these futuristic cars, there’s no disputing they’re more expensive than their fossil-fuel stablemates. So don’t buy one… lease one! Leasing enables you to drive an EV affordably since payments are based on the vehicle’s depreciation over the contract period, not the purchase price.

Contact us at WVL and ask about leasing an Electric Vehicle – it’s about more than just going green… with drastically reduced running costs, there’s never been a smarter, more budget-friendly way to drive! Call us to discuss options, prices and benefits on 01753 851561.

 

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Head To Head: Mini Cooper vs. Fiat 500
Head To Head: Mini Cooper vs. Fiat 500 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/mini-vs-fiat-featured.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

This week we take a closer look at two of the most iconic small cars of modern times: the Mini Cooper and the Fiat 500. With designs steeped in motoring heritage and tradition – and redesigns true to the original ethos, let’s go on a journey with these little cars of grand stature, from their inception to the models of today.

The evolution of an icon

Fiat 500
The 500 started out life in 1936 as the Topolino (the Italian nickname for Mickey Mouse), being one of the smallest cars in the world at the time. It began to take its more familiar shape in 1957 as the Nuova (new) 500 – the true Cinquecento: a cheap, practical vehicle, generally considered as one of the first ever city cars and redefining the term ‘small car’ due to its two-cylinder 479cc engine sub-three metre length. In the 18 years that it was in production, the Italian manufacturers produced just shy of 4 million worldwide demonstrating the significant success of the car, firmly positioning it as one of the most iconic cars of its time – and indeed, all time, too.

fiat-500-vintage-2

When Fiat launched the all-new 500 in 2007, 50 years after the Nuova was released, it grew into a heavier and larger shell than its 1957 predecessor. With its innovative, modern design the 500 experienced similar success to the original, achieving UK sales figures of over 100,000 units in less than 5 years. Not only had the driving public taken it to its heart, it garnered official praise too when in 2008 it won the European Car of the Year, Fiat’s first such award for over 40 years.

fiat-500-modern

The Fiat 500 also captured the attention of global fashion brands Gucci and Diesel, who collaborated with the manufacturer to produce stylish, on-brand, chic limited editions. Top men’s magazine, GQ, also has its own special edition: the 500 GQ – looking suitably sharp in two-tone livery and leather interior. Other limited editions have included the Fiat 500 Pink Ribbon edition with proceeds benefitting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and the 500 BlackJack with ultra-cool matt black bodywork – one of which we have in stock at WVL now!

In 2012, Fiat launched the 500L: a much larger, 5-door version of the car to use the iconic ‘500’ label whilst tapping into the family market – and crucially to pitch a vehicle in direct competition with MINI’s Clubman and Countryman. And no true Italian marque line-up wouldn’t be complete without a convertible… cue the Fiat 500C with its fabulous roll-top roof, a direct nod to the nostalgia and feel-good factor of the original 500.

fiat-500-c

Did you know…? You can have a coffee machine as an optional extra in the new 500L.

MINI
Ever since the original Mini was launched in 1959 it has remained the quintessential British motoring icon. Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis in the mid to late 50s for the British Motor Corporation, the Mini would go on to become the most successful British car of all time with total sales of over 5.3million worldwide between 1959 and 2001.

His ground-breaking design, with its front wheel drive, transverse engine, sump gearbox, 10-inch wheels, and phenomenal space efficiency literally broke the mould, and captured the public’s imaginations in one swift stroke.

mini-vintage

The MkI Mini produced between 1959-1967 experienced steady initial sales before picking up its success which ultimately saw over 1,190,000 units produced and becoming the first British car to reach one million sales. The original Mini continued production right up until the year 2000, with BMW assuming control of the BMC’s Rover Group (which owned the Mini label) in 1994, and set about its revamp and re-introduction.

In 2001 the new generation of MINI (note: now capitalised!) began production under BMW’s steerage, seeing a change in the design with an updated, modern image whilst going to great lengths to maintain MINI’s iconic status and core design. 2007’s revision to MKII was followed by diversification into a Coupe, a Roadster, a Countryman and a Paceman to broaden its target market.

miniskirt
mini-peter-sellers

There are many reasons why the Mini became such an iconic British symbol. Popular among celebrities during the swinging 60s – from Peter Sellers (whose ‘wicker-work’ Mini has been immortalised as a Corgi classic), mini-skirt designer Mary Quant along with Paul Smith and his stripes helping make the car something of a fashion statement, to its starring role in ‘The Italian Job,’ the infamous 1969 blockbuster seeing Michael Caine lead a trio of Minis (now restored) as getaway cars following a bank heist in Turin (featuring, quite topically, a fabulous scene on the test-track roof of the Lingotto – the city’s Fiat factory). The 2003 remake presented an updated story to go with the updated MINI, and with its all-star cast, the car’s iconic status was once again preserved in celluloid.

As the MINI evolved through the years many question whether each revision maintains the same character and iconic status as previous generations; some saying yes, others saying no – aficionados and purists claim that the MINI could never fill the Mini’s shoes. Whatever your view, one thing’s for sure: MINI’s popularity shows no sign of losing ground.

The all-new 2014 model – the third generation Cooper – is longer, broader and taller with some significant styling upgrades too. Early reviews are, of course, positive and despite the changes (including new engines and technologies) the car has “the same old appeal, the same character“.   Whilst the original Mini will always have a place in the nation’s heart, today’s safety requirements, environmental parameters and technological advances will always drive change. What’s for certain is that the new MINI is ready to attract a new generation of drivers and to secure the brand’s future for many more years to come.

mini-montage

Did you know…? Issigonis’ first design sketch for the Mini was drawn on a napkin in Switzerland. (Read more…)

Test Drives

Fiat 500
Being 6’4″ I presumed that my review of the Fiat 500 would be over before it had begun – wholly anticipating that the Fiat’s legroom would be less than a match for my legs. I was proven wrong! Very wrong, in fact, as the 500 provided a healthy amount of leg room for the driver in what is a deceptively spacious cabin. Anybody wanting to sit behind the driver’s seat with me at the wheel, however, wouldn’t be so lucky.

I couldn’t help but feel a great sense of excitement sitting in the 500. Everything about the car inspires a feeling of fun. The funky, quirky exterior, the high-mounted dashboard, the rounded stereo and climate controls, the in-your-face speedometer and even the interior door handles all seem to whisper to the driver, ‘Welcome. Get comfortable. Now let’s have some fun.’

As far as the drive goes it’s hard to find fault. The Fiat 500 BlackJack [NOW SOLD] that we have at WVL has a 1.2L engine, but 500s can be specified in engines up to 1.4L. Not substantially large, but given the car’s size and weight there’s enough power under the bonnet to zip you around town. Let it be noted however that this car is not best suited for motorway driving. If you regularly find yourself regularly enduring major motorway miles then perhaps the 500 is not for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a fun, energetic city car without poking too big a hole in your pocket (list prices start from £9,900, and there are great leasing deals to be had – call 01753 851561 or contact us for the best available prices) then book yourself on a Fiat 500 test drive today!

MINI
I, like many, have a long standing admiration for MINI that stems back to my early teens. By this reckoning you might expect my review to be drenched in gushing praise and compliments highlighting just how fantastic MINI is. Well, that’s exactly what this review is, not through the tinted glasses of a MINI enthusiast, but simply because MINI deserves all the praise that comes its way.

You just have to look at a MINI to appreciate its brilliance. From the moment you get into the car you immediately recognise that what you are sitting in is a piece of iconic British history. Much like the 500, everything about the interior has been meticulously designed to ensure you’re constantly reminded that what you’re sitting in is different to anything else on the market.

With a mixture of luxury, entertainment, sophistication, even novelty (albeit, acceptable novelty) MINI provides the perfect environment for just about any journey. It caters for young, for old, for male, for female; from school runs to cross-city dashes, shopping trips to motorway miles, the MINI is versatile enough to suit all your driving needs.

Price-wise, MINIs can slip into the high-end bracket for a hatchback (reaching a list price of nearly £25,000), but that’s only if you’re after the top spec., and basic models are a very affordable buy starting from £11,110.

Leasing, of course, gives you the best of both worlds: a new vehicle in your choice of spec. for a manageable, monthly payment!

Head To Head

Trying to differentiate between the MINI and the Fiat 500 is something of an impossible task. It’s like saying, “What’s better: Messi or Ronaldo? The Office or Fawlty Towers? Sauvignon or Rioja? Ant or Dec?” You can’t do it because it’s subjective. Personally, I feel much more at home in the MINI – but that’s just a personal opinion and shouldn’t take anything away from the greatness of the 500.

For drivers looking for a little more oomph under foot, both manufacturers have their own super-hot variants: MINI with its John Cooper Works models based on the Cooper S and delivering up to 211bhp, and Fiat with its souped-up, 135-160bhp Abarth models.

mini-fiat-sports

The reality is that you’ll scarcely find a driver of either car who would suggest that they’d prefer the alternative. 500 drivers love the 500, MINI drivers love the MINI and that’s the great thing about both of these mini-giants of the motoring world. Each has its own merits, each has very few negatives, and each makes their owner fall in love with it within the first few miles.

Contact us for Leasing options and the current best-available deals, or if you’re looking to purchase a vehicle, here are the details of the models we have in stock:

Our Vehicles

fiat-500 mini
Model Fiat 500 1.2 BlackJack 3dr [Start Stop] MINI Hatch Cooper S 1.6 3dr
Year/Reg 2011 / 61 2010 / 10
Mileage 20,000 46,982
Engine Size 1.2L 1.6L
Fuel Petrol Petrol
Gearbox Manual Manual
CO₂ 113g/km 149g/km
Consumption (combined) 58.9mpg 45.6mpg
0-62mph 12.9 sec 7.1 sec
Engine power 69bhp 175bhp
Luggage capacity (seats down) 550L 680L
Vehicle Tax Band C F
Price £8,500 £9,995
Click for details [NOW SOLD] Click for details

These cars mean business, too!

Early on, the MINI was recognised by estate agencies (most notably Foxtons) to be a tax-, budget- and fuel-efficient way promote their services on the move and win customers. The trend has caught on among an ever widening diversity of businesses – small and large – now with the Fiat 500 equally popular as a worthy rival in the efficiency and personality stakes. With their cheeky charm and small size, these cars are perfect for being branded-up with vinyls and wraps for high visibility mobile marketing at low cost.

Call us on 01753 851561 to discuss leasing one of these superminis… we’ll help you choose the perfect spec for you, your lifestyle or business, so you can start motoring with a single, manageable, monthly payment!

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The Week In Motoring #6
The Week In Motoring #6 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/wvl-blog-featured-6.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

2014 Budget

First on the motoring agenda for George Osborne in the 2014 budget announcement was to reveal that the proposed fuel duty rise in September of this year is to be abandoned: fuel duty will now in fact be frozen until September 2015 – welcome news for motorists.

More good news was to come, this time for classic cars as a 40-year rolling period keeps them exempt from vehicle tax duty – likely to have a welcome positive impact on their values, too.

It’s not all good news however, as the Chancellor announced that vehicles in tax bands D upwards would experience a minimum of £5 increase in vehicle excise duty.

Perhaps the most widely reported outcome of the Budget was the revelation that a £200million fund would be handed to local authorities in a bid to help repair the potholes that have appeared on Britain’s roads as a result of several harsh winters. Whilst this is a good start, many critics have pointed out that it’s not nearly enough to address the widespread poor state of our roads. Professor Stephen Glaister, RAC Director, stated: ‘our road maintenance backlog stretches back to some £10.5billion worth of repair, which means that the cash will go less than two percent of the way to addressing the problem.’

Tyre Safety Campaign Encourages Drivers to Regularly Check Their Tyres

Britain’s battered and bruised roads have sparked a tyre safety campaign to urge drivers to check their tyres and wheels for damage more often. The advice comes after the Chancellor announced that increased funds will be provided to local governments to help fix Britain’s roads.

TyreSafe chairman Stuart Jackson stated, “While the announcement of extra funds to help repair the UK’s roads is welcome news, it will not happen overnight. In the meantime, it’s critical that drivers pay particular attention to the condition of their tyres and wheels as hitting a pothole can cause significant damage.”

Jackson goes on to say that untreated tyre damage could present substantial danger not just the driver but other road users too.

Even slight damage to tyres, such as hairline cracks, can cause the tyre to slowly deflate. If a wheel is driven with an under-inflated state for prolonged periods it can cause the tyre to overheat, resulting in a greater chance of deflation in the future.

It is vitally important to check your tyre pressure regularly, particularly in the days after hitting a pothole. The correct tyre pressures for your vehicle can be found in its handbook.

Company Car Drivers Leading the way with Low CO₂ Emissions

The amount of Carbon Emissions from new company cars reached an all time low of 120.4g/km in February according to ALD Automotive, beating the previous low of 125.2g/km set at the end of 2013.

Company car CO₂ emissions have been significantly reduced in the past 5 years, having fallen by a total 17% (27% in the past 10 years). Moreover, they are also 8g/km below the UK’s average for new vehicles, something Fleet News claim “demonstrates that company car drivers are leading the way in terms of reducing carbon emissions.”

The latest findings from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicate that a car produced in 2014 is typically 14% more efficient than one produced in 2009. Mel Dawson, Managing Director at ALD, suggested that Benefit in Kind taxation is the main driving force behind low CO₂ emissions for company cars: “Our survey of over 1,000 company car drivers in 2013 found that BIK was the most influential factor for company car drivers when choosing their next vehicle.”

With increases in BIK announced for vehicles with over 75g/km of carbon emissions in last week’s Budget, this form of taxation is likely to continue to be a major influencer for company car drivers and their choice of vehicle.

Car of the Week

Our vehicle of the week is this executive BMW 318d SAL 2.0 Luxury Auto – Business Media:

Year / Reg 2013
Mileage 8,000
Engine 2.0L
Fuel Diesel
Gearbox Auto
Consumption (combined) 62.8mpg
0-62mph 8.9 seconds
Engine Power 143bhp
Body Saloon
Colour Blue

BMW-SAL

If you’d like to book a test drive or talk to us out about the latest leasing options for this vehicle, then don’t hesitate to call on 01753 851561.

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The 2014 Geneva Motor Show
The 2014 Geneva Motor Show https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/geneva-featured.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

This week the stage was set in Switzerland for the Geneva Motor Show 2014: the event where the motoring world unites to show off their latest models in one grand celebration of the year ahead.

Among the excitement this year we saw the unveiling of the world’s most powerful road car; Lamborghini’s successor to the Gallardo; BMW’s first ever front-wheel drive MPV and of course the customary new special edition Bugatti Veyron. Everything from city slickers to one-in-a-million supercars to concept cars were on the bill as the world’s car manufacturers flexed their shiny new motoring-muscle.

Here’s a quick round-up of our top 5 cars at the show.

5 – Citroen C1

Citroen’s latest C1 saw another edition to the city car market. Available in 3 and 5 door versions, the C1 shares the same chassis and engine as both the new Peugeot 108 and Toyota Aygo.

The French manufacturers have definitely injected their own sense of fun into the C1 with an interior that consists of ‘bright colours and body coloured inserts in the door panels’ (Autocar).

The car is available in 8 different colours or alternatively, as is very much on trend for small city cars, Citroen offer a pair of two-tone models.

The C1 is not left lagging on the technology front either with a start-stop system as well as option 7” touchscreen, climate control, heated seats and reversing camera.

Prices for the C1 are yet to be released, but expect it to start from £6,500 – £7,500.

c1-geneva

4 – Koenigsegg One:1

Step aside Bugatti Veyron, there’s now a more powerful car in town and it goes by the name of the Koenigsegg One:1. With 1,340bhp, the One:1 is officially the world’s most powerful car.

Let’s get to the most important bit: the practicalities… just kidding. Here are some numbers to make your jaw drop: the 5-litre V8 produces 1,340bhp that can see the One:1 reach a top speed of 273mph and can get from 0-62mph in just 2.8 seconds and 0-248mph in 20 seconds.

And… breathe.

If you’re interested in buying one then we’re sorry to report that they’re all sold out, all 6 of them.

koenigsegg

3 – Renault Twingo

This year will see the release of the MKIII MINI but the new MINI is not the only small city car to enter its third generation, as the new Twingo was unveiled in Geneva. The new rear-wheel drive, rear-mounted engine has been tipped to ‘shake up the city car market.’

Again personalisation is present with various colour combinations available for the interior that will spice up the inside of the car, and again technology plays its hand in the form of a colour touch screen, phone link up and 3D navigation.

The Twingo will be available in both 0.9 and 1 litre engines with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Prices as yet are unknown.

2 – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

Whilst it may not jump out of the page as being one of the most significant cars at the show this year, the reason we have BMW at number 2 in our list is because not only is it the first MPV that BMW have ever produced, but it’s also the first front-wheel drive to emerge from the German car makers.

Whilst not as attractive as, say, a 320i or 518d, the Active Tourer does provide an option for drivers looking for a more family-friendly ride (and one that can function in the snow for that matter!).

The car is available in both 1.5 and 2.0 litre petrol and diesel engines with the flagship engine being a 225i xDrive version powered by a 2.0litre turbo.

The first deliveries of the Active Tourer are expected to arrive in September with prices starting around the £20,000 mark.

1 – Lamborghini Huracán

The Lamborghini Huracán kicked off this year’s show with an almighty bang. Kind of a big deal.

Succeeding Lambo’s most successful ever model, the Gallardo, we knew that the Huracán had to be something special and it would appear that we have not been disappointed.

This supercar boasts a 610-horsepower V10 engine that propels the Huracán to tops speeds of a scintillating 202mph. Compared to the outgoing Gallardo, which can be identified by its somewhat hard edges, the Huracán has opted for a much smoother, rounder finish.

I challenge you to find someone who doesn’t agree that the finished product is a stunning piece of craftsmanship fit to wear the Lamborghini badge.

Whilst this is technically set to become Lamborghini’s ‘cheapest’ model, the entry figure still lies at around £188,000. You get what you pay for though, right?

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Staff Profile: Martin Callaway, Operations Manager
Staff Profile: Martin Callaway, Operations Manager https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/martin-c-featured.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Track Record

As with most things in life the best place to start is at the beginning, so let me take you back 37 years to my first time at the company. Having carried out just 4 days of work experience at AA Clark, through charm, skill and a little bit of luck, I was offered the role as an apprentice in 1977. Working on the petrol forecourt, there was never a dull moment, perhaps best demonstrated by being given the responsibility of filling up the Queen’s Rolls Royce’s on several occasions!

During my time as an apprentice I was able to learn all aspects of the motor trade: parts department, service department and workshop. I remember the first car I worked alone on was a PDi inspection on a Vauxhall Viva BBL 70T sold to a Mrs. Cartwright. To my delight the car was still going the last time I saw it in 2010!

It wasn’t just Mrs. Cartwright and the Queen’s cars that I dealt with during my time as an apprentice, with Prince Andrew, Prince Charles and many old generals who used to live at Windsor Castle also among the customers whose cars I helped repair. Not bad for a teenager!

In 1979 I moved to the service department as a junior receptionist before being promoted to Assistant to the Service Manager in 1984. Throughout the years I went on to become Service Manager at Merry’s in Egham, Maintenance Controller at WVL before taking up my current role as Operations Manager in 2006.

Cars are my real passion in life and I’ll give anything vehicle related a go. Ever the perfectionist, you’ll often see me putting the finishing touches to cars before they are moved to our retail site.

Despite being 37 years older (or ‘more experienced’ as I like to say) than I was when I first landed on AA Clark’s doorstep, the Chairman still insists on calling me BOY or Fozzie Bear. Terms of endearment, I hope!

Extra Curricular…

I’ve always lived in Maidenhead and try to embrace the local community. With a keen interest in football I like to watch the local non-league football team (Maidenhead United) play as often as possible. When I’m not watching football I like to play golf at Maidenhead Golf Club as an Artisan member. From time to time I like to dabble in a bit of DIY and gardening work as well as taking trips out on my mountain bike and visiting the local art centre to watch the local theatre groups.

If I find myself with some spare time at the weekends, my wife and I like to visit local National Trust properties/locations, of which there is a surprisingly large number in the area.

Recently, I have been attempting to relive my youth by watching some of my favourite bands of yesteryear including Madness, Squeeze and Eagles. Next up is the Henley Rewind Festival that I’ll be attending later this year.

Favourite Rides

My favourite owned car was my MK 3 Ford Cortina GXL. Bronze in colour, with 16” Wolf race alloy wheels, red painted brake callipers and brake drums, 4 front spot lights, bucket seats, radio cassette with graphic equaliser it was one of the best looking cars in town and, after I tinkered with the twin webber carburettor, was also one of the fastest. A lovely anecdote arose when a policeman stopped me for speeding only to have him comment on how good looking the car was and thereon wave at me whenever he saw me out and about in town.

Unfortunately with my future wife only being 5ft tall she couldn’t see over the steering wheel and, as she had to drive the car to work every day, I had a tough choice to make: her or the car. In the end she won by a short head mainly because I knew she wouldn’t get rusty with age (but with similar running costs). And so with a tear in my eye I had to send my baby to a new home.

CortinaImage © REX FEATURES

Unashamedly, watching re-runs of ‘Life on Mars‘ brings back fond memories of the Cortina. I still miss that car so if you see a Bronze MK 3 Cortina NLF 388K on your travels please let me know!

Unfortunately, due to time constraints (as well as the Mrs nagging me) I wasn’t able to have a good look round the recent Ford owners club meet that I stumbled across in Somerset. Alas, I know when the next one is so I’ll be going to that one on my own, and maybe…

Beyond my own collection I don’t have a favourite car, but I’ve shortlisted some of the cars I’ve enjoyed here, by type:

Small car – Audi A1 / BMW 120d, typical German engineering, top quality.

Mid/Small range – Honda Civic* 5Dr 1.6 I-dtec Se-t. Very good car, comfortable, very good MPG, and low CO₂ and running costs.

Mid Range – Audi 2.0TDi A4 S-Line… almost perfection.

Luxury – Any Jaguar XF will do. It’s impossible to look out of place anywhere.

4×4 – Range Rover Sport. It makes me feel important.

Dream Car – Any Aston Martin as long as someone else pays for the fuel & insurance… and tells the wife!

Connect with Martin in the Maintenance & Bodyshop team by phone on 01753 801914, by email [email protected] and join his network on LinkedIn too.

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The Week In Motoring #4
The Week In Motoring #4 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/ferrari-california-t.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Ferrari California Goes Turbo

Ferrari have released details of their latest model and successor to the California, the California T. This is the first Ferrari to be fitted with a turbo engine since the F40 hypercar went out of production in 1992.

So, how does the turbo compare to its predecessor? The 3.8litre V8 engine produces 552bhp and 556lb or torque, which is 62bhp more and double the torque of the previous model. This all results in the ability to go from 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than the California. The turbo also produces 15% less CO₂ at 250g/km CO₂.

Time to start saving the pennies if you want to get your hands on one as the entry price is £155,000! Nonetheless, we can’t wait to see this beauty out on the roads.

Set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Average LCV Value Rise in January

January has seen the value for second hand light commercial vehicles marginally increase to an average of £5,322, an £11 increase on December 2013. It signals the 6th month in a row that the average value has exceeded £5,000 and is the highest value since Pulse started reporting in 2005.

Values are up 13.9% from last year, an increase of £653.

Duncan Ward, BCA General Manager for commercial vehicles has said, ‘January essentially delivered more of what we saw throughout the previous 12 months – a shortage of stock allied to decent levels of demand that generated exceptionally strong prices in the used van market. With stock remaining thin on the ground, buyer demand is focused on the best quality commercial vehicles and this is driving values up.’

Renault Unveils 3rd Gen Twingo

The next generation Twingo has been released by Renault and it will feature extra doors and a rear-mounted engine in a joint development with Smart. The French car manufacturer claims that the main benefit that occurs to the car as a result of the newly positioned engine is a considerable improvement in the turning circle.

A smaller engine, the positioning of the wheels and the rear mounted engine all contribute towards improved cabin space.

Renault’s head of design said that the Twingo ‘was inspired not only by the original Twingo but also by the Renault 5. It is a modern take on the city car genre with the accent on innovation in terms of its lines and architecture. New Twingo is a fun, playful and vibrant city car.’

As is the case with the Ferrari, the new Twingo will be given its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show… but you can take a look at it in this teaser video:

Car of the Week

The car of the week is our superb BMW 3 Series M Sport.

Year / Reg 2013 (63)
Mileage 800
Engine 3.0L
Fuel Diesel
Gearbox Automatic
Body Estate
Colour Grey

BMW 120i

Price: £36,999

The car is in excellent condition (both interior and exterior) and comes with a full service history, 3 month guarantee and 12 months MOT.

For further information, please call 01753 851561, or click here to view full details.

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The Week In Motoring #2
The Week In Motoring #2 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/ferrari-250.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

Ferrari 250 TR Becomes the Most Expensive Car Ever Sold In Britain

Don’t you hate it when you bid for a car but someone pips you to the post by offering more money? Well, our bid for the Ferrari 250 TR was slightly improved on by an anonymous bidder who snapped up the racer for £24million. This 1950s beauty has a 3.0 litre V12 engine and 300bhp and can reach a top speed of 167mph.

The seller was 1961 Formula 1 World Champion Phil Hill who, along with Peter Collins, raced it to victory in the 1958 12 Hours of Sebring. The car also picked up victory at the 1000km Buenos Aires and raced in 1957 at Le Mans.

In 1967, the car was donated to the Ford Dearborn Museum where it lived for 30 long years.

UK Car Manufacturing at 6 Year High

Figures produced by the Society of Motor Manufacturers show a 3.1% rise in UK manufactured cars during 2013, with 1.5 million cars coming off the production line. The figure is the highest since 2007 and is expected to keep rising with estimates suggesting over 2 million cars could be UK produced by 2017, making it the 3rd largest car manufacturer in Europe.

Business Secretary Vince Cable speaks very optimistically of the rise in UK manufacturing stating, “Today’s figures are another sign that the British Car Industry is going from strength to strength – with one vehicle rolling off a production line someone in the UK every 20 seconds.”

Around 80% of the cars produced were exported around the world which Cable says is “testament to the diverse, high quality of British Manufacturing.”

New Campaign Highlights Risks to Business Drivers

Surprisingly, it has emerged that 21% of traffic collisions in the North-East involve people driving for work purposes. This has caused members of the public to question why there isn’t the same attention paid to highlighting the dangers of driving for work as there is drink driving, which is accountable for a quarter less traffic collisions.

From 2008 – 2012, 74 people died as a result of collisions involving business-related travel in the North-East with a further 748 serious injuries and 8262 slight injuries.

These statistics have caused Road Safety North East to launch a new campaign warning businesses that they could be prosecuted if they neglect their employer responsibilities. Among the campaign are guidelines including paying attention to weather conditions, avoiding distractions and to allow ample time for their journeys. The campaign also reminds employers that they are liable under the Corporate Manslaughter Act if their policies are not up to standard.

Schumacher Slowly Coming Out of Coma

7-time Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher is having his sedation reduced as doctors prepare to bring him out of his coma. Sabire Kehm has stated that doctors are beginning the ‘waking up process’ but that bringing Schumacher out of his coma “could take a long time.”

Schumacher has been in a medically-induced coma since 29th December after suffering a serious head injury whilst skiing in the French Alps. His family have requested continued privacy from the general public but have expressed their “sincere appreciation for the worldwide sympathy.”

Car of the Week

Our car of the week this week is the fantastic BMW 1 Series 120i.

Year / Reg 2010 (60)
Mileage 90,490
Engine 2.0L
Fuel Petrol
Gearbox Manual
Body Coupe
Colour White

BMW 120i

Price: £9,999

This BM1 Series Coupe is in excellent condition (both interior and exterior) and comes with a full service history, 3 month guarantee and 12 months MOT.

For further information, please call 01753 851561, or click here to view full details.

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Eco Feature: Going Green… and the new BMW i3
Eco Feature: Going Green… and the new BMW i3 https://wvl.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/i3.jpg 660 300 Anthony Anthony https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a9c4089fd91833b9d9ac3cd2423e0fcb?s=96&d=mm&r=g

When you consider that we live in an ever increasingly environmentally conscious society, it’s a wonder that people are seemingly so reserved when it comes to acquiring green cars.

In the UK motor industry just 1.5% of cars sold are accounted for by electric and hybrid cars and, although there has been slow and steady market growth at home, across the channel in Europe sales of green cars are down 5% from last year. Which begs the question, why?

The lack of sales is a conundrum that the government are keen to solve which has led to the Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) being granted a further £500million to develop a more effective strategy aimed at increasing the uptake of low emission vehicles. This is to be carried out in the 5 year period between 2015 – 2020.

To aid them in their task, OLEV have been seeking feedback from various external bodies as to how best to invest the money. Representatives from the BVRLA have stated that “more resource is needed to be put behind information campaigns and fleet training so that many misconceptions around electric vehicles can be corrected.” Among the suggested incentives that OLEV have been advised to implement are the following; tax incentives for companies to install charging points, reinstate 100% FYA for leased or rented ultra-low emission vehicles and to provide subsidised or free EV parking.

Trying to encourage consumers and businesses to acquire greener cars is nothing new: in 2002 the chancellor announced changes to company car tax with the main intention of encouraging employers and company car drivers to choose cars with low CO₂ emissions. The basic premise of the tax is: the lower the harmful emissions, the lower the tax. These company tax benefits are the primary reason that the majority of electric car sales in the UK are for fleet or company car use.

i3-montage

All eyes are on BMW’s i3
From a manufacturer’s point of view there has been a lot of excitement and hype around the newly released BMW i3. Having first released plans for the i3 in 2007 and having spent $2billion in development, the car is now being widely acclaimed for its innovation, with Topgear heralding it as a car that can ‘change open minds (with regards to green cars).’

BMW insist that the primary version of the i3 is the all electric model which has a range of between 80-100 miles, but there is also a range-enhancing version equipped with a petrol generator which, among other factors, is aimed at reducing range anxiety among drivers.

Since going on sale in September 2013, sales for the i3 have been very slow, with just 400 units being sold during November in Western Europe. However, experts say that this is not to do with consumer doubt and rather that BMW are consciously being slow in the production of the car for fear of their newly developed technology failing, resulting in numerous (rather embarrassing) recalls.

BMW have been quick to release confidence boosting figures of 10,000 orders having been taken around the world with a further 100,000 requests for test drives. Whatever the figures may be one thing is for sure: 2014 is going to be a big year for the i3… and a big year for green cars in general.

If you’re considering a greener option for your vehicle or fleet, call us to discuss the options, prices and benefits on 01753 851561.

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