Low Cost Vans

Toyota has proudly announced their title win of Car and Van Manufacturer of the Year in the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership awards. Thanks to being one of the main leaders in reducing the environmental impact of everyday motoring, Graham Smith OBE, Managing Director Toyota Motor Europe London Office, was named Outstanding Individual in Promoting Low Carbon Transport. The awards ceremony in London on 29 January 2013, also presented Coco-Cola Enterprises with Low Carbon Vehicle Operator of the Year and to coincide with its 10-year anniversary, the LowCVP announced that Ford Motor Company Ltd and Transport for London (TfL) were awarded with special anniversary accolades for ‘Outstanding Achievement in Low Carbon Transport over the last 10 years. Announcing the awards, Andy Eastlake, LowCVP Managing Director, said: “In a year of outstanding growth in UK car sales, Toyota, the name synonymous with hybrids, has introduced the technology across the widest range of vehicles on the market. Thirt

Citroën has just  announced that they will be showing the all-new Berlingo Electrique van at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show. The show is the largest road transport, distribution and logistics event and is to be held at the NEC from  9-11 April, 2013. FYI, entry is  free and you can apply for your ticket through the CV show's official website  here , Citroën's 100% electric van builds upon their unrivalled experience of electric LCVs in the UK, which was gained with the first generation Berlingo Electrique launched in 1998. They have also announced that they will be showcasing additional LCV products at their stand, including the new Dispatch L1H1 HDi 125 6-seat Crew Van and Stop & Start equipped Relay vans. Keep an eye out for their ‘Citroën Vans - Business Class’ theme, with Citroën Contract Motoring personnel providing instant contract hire and other business-friendly finance quotations to the show’s visitors. What makes the Berlingo Electrique one to watch? For one,

The latest guide page takes a look at another two types of equipment and accessories that you may consider adding to your van. Roof racks, access ladders, and possibly vents can be essential equipment to have depending on the nature of your job. If you need to carry extra equipment that will not easily fit in your van, fitting a roof rack will allow you to have access to additional space on your vehicle for the storage of extra equipment and ladders are designed for easy access to roof racks. Ladders for vans may be detachable or fixed. Vents are specifically designed to extract air from the van load area, reducing the effects from unwanted fumes, smells and condensation. The main types of equipment and accessories can be grouped as follows: • Internal linings and bulkheads • Load restraints • Aids to loading and unloading (covered in last week’s guide ) • Lifting aids (covered in last week’s guide) • Roof racks and access ladders • Roof vents • Beacons and blaze bars • Aerodynamics To

For all you Top Gear fans, have you set your digiboxes to record the new series which is now in its 19th season? For the even bigger Top Gear fan, the start of the new series spells good news, as this marks the beginning of new challenge cars to arrive at Beaulieu’s World of Top Gear. If you haven't been to see the exhibition yet, what are you waiting for? It features a collection of the actual cars created by presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May, plus you can experience the Top Gear 'Enormodrome' which recreate the feel of the Top Gear live audience studio. Top Gear has just announced that the latest car to go on show at the motor museum is Jeremy Clarkson’s "weird and wonderful P45". Following the mass popularity of his video demonstrating the many benefits of the world’s smallest car, the Peel P50, he was set a new challenge. His mission? To create and drive a car even smaller than the Peel P50. The result? The brilliant yet bonkers P45 mic

Trusted auto magazine What Car? recently announced Britain’s best cars to buy in 2013. With so many options to choose from and with value for money being a top priority for buyers, What Car? has compiled a 'best of' list that takes into consideration a diverse mix of vehicle models, buyers varying needs, and every budget. What Car? editor-in-chief Chas Hallett said: “We hope that naming Britain’s best cars so early in the year will help car buyers decide what car is best for them. As well as providing the What Car? Target Price* – a researched and achievable discount price they should aim for, we would also encourage consumers to try the What Car? True MPG web tool that will provide realistic fuel consumption figures.”                                          Britain’s best cars to buy in 2013 *What Car? Target Price? is the maximum price What Car? believes a car buyer should pay for their new vehicle. With such a helpful guide from What Car?, motorists looking to buy early

  The Motor Codes, which focuses on recognition of first-class service, providing informed choice for the consumer and, ultimately, driving business to its network of committed businesses has announced a change in format for Garage of the Year 2013. Motor Codes managing director, Chris Mason explains: “In the four years since the government asked us to look at the crisis in consumer confidence associated with car service and repair, we’ve been able to demonstrate collectively, through the hard work and openness of those garages committed to the codes, that Motor Codes, the government-backed garage network, is the safe choice for motorists.  As a result, we’ve changed things this year so that only Motor Codes subscribers – those that submit themselves to scrutiny – can enter.” In addition to having to subscribe, Motor Codes is now offering an award for both the franchised main dealer and independent garage of the year. Motor Codes Garage of the Year campaign is intended to promote the b

Whilst driving along the M4 during the snow last week, I was slowly following and occasionally stopped behind a vehicle with one of the most annoying bumper stickers I have ever read. I wasn't even aware that anyone actually still bought and placed them on their cars/vans anymore. I felt like politely advising the driver that they have just reduced the re sale value of their fairly new Volvo and that no one really cares if they are driving too fast because they have to P** (rhymes with loo). Ugh, yes, it really did say that. Why? That is just so wrong on so many levels. In any case, it got me thinking about all of the annoying auto accessories and modifications that some drivers have added to their vehicles. I've seen my fair share of ill-conceived effort going into making an average car much, much worse. Do you really need a car bonnet bra or fake eyelashes for your overly girlie pink cars' headlights? How about those nodding Churchill dog toys bouncing around in the rear

In a new report published by BCA, there was much better news regarding the average value of a used car in 2012. It rose to the highest annual figure on record, reported at £6,199. This represented a rise of £280 compared to 2011 (up 4.7%), and by £358 (6.1%) compared to 2010. Fleet & Lease car values in the second half of 2012 rose by 12.3% year-on-year, while dealer part-exchange car values rose by 12.6% over the same period. See the results of the BCA report below: BCA Used Car data 2010 – 2012 Year Avg Age Avg Mileage Avg Value Sale vs CAP 2010 59.70 57,295 £5,841 96.55% 2011 60.51 58,376 £5,919 96.31% 2012 62.07 58,969 £6,199 96.48% Along with used car values, BCA say that average age and mileage have also risen over the past three years. As speculated about last year, due to the current economic climate, more and more people have been and still are hanging on to their vehicles longer before selling or changing to a new one, thus leading to higher second hand prices and a short

Thank goodness it's Friday and you know what that means, time to share the latest weekly motoring tips from road safety charity IAM and Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger. This week, he is advising on towing techniques. Rodger said: “Whether you’re towing a speedboat, a horsebox, a caravan or another car, there are certain rules which must be applied. It is important to recognise the challenges which come with having to control not just one vehicle, but two.” Here are just a few of Peter Rodger's tips you can also find posted in full on the IAM's helpful website: Watch the weight of the towed vehicle – this should not exceed 85 per cent of the car’s kerb weight. Excess weight will cause instability. Check the unit you are towing is secure before pulling away, and check again after a short distance. Look for anything loose, disconnected, missing or broken. Check that your extra rear lights are all connected and fully functional. Get somebody to help while you

Would you like to own an affordable SUV that can retain an impressive 34% of its value after three years/60,000 miles up to £3,260 more than pricier SUV rivals? Well, now you can. Dacia has just announced that leading UK residual value provider, CAP, has forecast that the Dacia Duster SUV will be a good buy for being one of the least depreciating cars on sale today. The Duster comes in three UK trim levels: Access, Ambiance and Lauréate. And better still, you can drive away in an entry-level Access version for £8,995. Speaking on the news, Dacia UK Marketing Director, Phil York, said, “We know that the Dacia Duster is a great package for anyone after a practical, reliable and affordable SUV. CAP’s view just reaffirms our belief that it’s got bucket loads of appeal for British buyers. After living with one, I doubt most owners will ever want to be parted from their trusty Duster. But, if they do have to sell it, or maybe even trade it in for a newer Dacia, they won’t be hugely out of po

Euro NCAP, the European car safety performance assessment programme, has announced their 2012 top choices for safety and the outstanding recommended vehicles in their class. The individual test marking criteria includes; adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist systems. Of the 36 vehicles that had been tested and results published in 2012, Euro NCAP says that eight five-star vehicles performed exceptionally. The results were: Renault Clio – Supermini Volvo V40 – Small Family BMW 3 Series – Large Family FIAT 500L and Ford B-MAX – Small MPV Ford Kuga – Small Off-Road 4x4 Hyundai Santa Fe - Large Off-Road 4x4 Ford transit – Business and Family Vans Looking at the top choices, it was surprising to see the Range Rover not take top in its category and seeing the Volvo V40 reaching the highest combined score of any car previously tested by Euro NCAP. The vehicles in the runner up spots include the Ford Fiesta in the Sup

  Nissan has announced they have reduced the price of their zero-emissions all-electric Leaf. Nissan say the reduction of £2,500 is all part of a global effort to make the LEAF more affordable in the pioneering electric vehicle’s three main markets of Japan, Europe and the United States. On top of the incentive offered by the government, this means a customer can drive away in a brand new LEAF for £23,490. And to add to the good news, Nissan say that an updated version of the LEAF is coming in spring 2013. “There is no doubt that Nissan LEAF is a revolution and existing customers are passionate in their belief that zero-emission mobility is not the future, but is here now,” said Paul Willcox, senior vice president, Nissan Europe. “Nissan’s objective for LEAF has always been to bring zero-emission mobility within reach of the mass-market. Our price reduction underlines that commitment and with no price premium even more motorists will become believers.” The Leaf does offer some pretty g

If you are one of the over 15,000 fanatics who've already placed an order and are impatiently waiting to get your hands on Ford's fast new Fiesta ST, relax, you only have to wait until March when dealers begin taking deliveries. For those that haven't yet decided if one of these new hot hatch cars are for you, you may want to visit one of Ford’s 530 UK dealers as they have set aside January 24 th as “Fiesta Day” to include special showroom features and attractions to help manage exceptional levels of interest in Ford’s new ST and ST2. Even better news is that Ford has announced prices for the two-series Fiesta ST line-up at £16,995 and £17,995 on the road.  These prices are up to £2000 less than segment competitors. The Fiesta range will be available in three-door body style and powered by a 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost, all-aluminium, four cylinder petrol engine which combines high pressure direct injection, low inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing. “

Yet more weather warnings have been issued this week due to snow and icy conditions. As someone who has the ability to work from home, it has not affected my work routine too drastically these last few days. However, for those of you who were unable to or still can't drive to work, what are your employment rights, especially when the local authorities have advised people only to travel if it was absolutely necessary? Business Car Manager, the UK's dedicated business motoring online magazine has provided answers to some of your drive to work questions in their recent post titled, " What happens when people don’t turn up for work because of bad weather ?" written by Richard Davies. Although the editor has noted that the information is general and not to rely on it for making crucial decisions , it is a quick easy to understand reference to assist those wondering if they will have to take unpaid leave, even if they tried unsuccessfully to drive to work, or is an employ

In this week's Essential Guide to Van Specification: Equipment and Accessories, we are continuing on with the main types of equipment and accessories you may need. The guide looks into aids to loading and unloading, as well as lifting aids. Although some features may be regarded as additional to the basic vehicle, they can nevertheless make a significant contribution to fuel and overall operational efficiency. The main types of equipment and accessories can be grouped as follows: • Internal linings and bulkheads • Load restraints (covered in last week’s guide) • Aids to loading and unloading • Lifting aids • Roof racks and access ladders • Roof vents • Beacons and blaze bars • Aerodynamics To view the latest guide page, please click here

According to a recent survey conducted by online tyre retailer Delticom, trading in the UK as mytyres.co.uk , a large amount of driver's did not know of the benefits of fitting winter tyres onto their vehicles. The survey also showed that many of these drivers rated being able to maintain mobility during winter conditions as a high priority. Were you aware that when the air temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius your summer tyres, which are fitted to most new cars in the UK, do not perform as well as winter or cold weather tyres which have the capability of not just dealing with snow but also coping with icy conditions as well? And drivers are six times more likely to have an accident in winter months and nearly half of all accident claims are made during winter(Source: Continental Tyres press information, 11/2012) Delticom's recent post says, "The major benefits of fitting winter tyres is to stay safe on the road and to be prepared if wintery road conditions arrive ove

VanQuoteDirect , a leading online commercial vehicle insurance website, has recently posted their picks for Most Reliable Vans of 2012 . In the post titled, " Friday Five: Most Reliable Vans of 2012 ", the results are not surprising, although out of the five vans voted highest on their reliability scale, just three manufacturers took the top five spots. These were Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and never far from a top ranked list last year, Ford. The post does go on to mention that if the list were to include a full top ten, then Renault, Vauxhall and Citroen would certainly be somewhere in amongst the listings. To read more about why they were chosen as the top five, please click on the post's title link above. Ford has placed number one on several recent top ranking polls and awards in recent months from both local and international publications to motor shows in categories such as van of the year at the Hannover IAA Commercial Vehicle Show, best green van in the British I

In a new press release Fiat are promoting the arrival of their new third generation Panda 4x4, which will be available purchase to this month. The latest Fiat Panda 4x4 with an all-wheel drive system is successor to the previous best-seller that first appeared over 29 years ago. Fiat say, " it’s a smart solution for drivers who want city car features without trading the passenger room and comfort of a five-door, or the go-anywhere ability of a full SUV." Despite having a compact five-door car like shape, this version of the Panda will offer buyers the convenience of a smaller city car with the versatility and ability of a full sized SUV. Fiat also reminds us that there is another vehicle to consider which sits between the Panda 4x4 and the regular two wheel drive option, Panda Trekking, the world's first CUV or City Utility Vehicle. This version features the Panda 4x4’s raised ride height but combines front-wheel drive with an improved traction control system to enhance i

Good news for UK car manufacturing was reported this week. They broke all-time export records in 2012. With volumes sent overseas exceeding 1.2 million, total vehicle output increased 8% last year to 1.58 million units, the highest level since 2008. According to the SMMT figures, the outlook for UK automotive manufacturing is good, with global demand remaining strong and UK facilities building on the significant investment committed to them in recent years. Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive said, "2012 was a very good year for UK car production with record levels of exports and volumes at their highest since 2008. The outlook for 2013 remains positive with demand in many faster growing global markets offsetting the continued weakness in European economies. The £6 billion of investment committed to UK facilities, new model programmes and R&D signals a bright future and many new opportunities for companies in the supply chain. These remain extremely challenging times and it is

Are you all ready for the new driver's license photo card? In details from a recent post on Confused.com , new harder to forge driving licences are on the way. So, practice your smile in the mirror and don't forget to look your best on the day, after all, you will have to live with that picture on the new piece of polycarbonate (not plastic anymore) for a while. But don't worry too much about your make-up or picking out your favourite colour top to wear, as the new photos will be in black and white. The new license will be introduced from January 19, 2013 along with new licence regulations, such as what you can legally tow and there will be a new 5 year validity for drivers of minibuses, buses and lorries. Per the new rules, "If you have passed your car (category B) test on or after 19 January 2013, to tow a trailer weighing more than 3,500kg with a car or small vehicle (category B and B+E), you will need to pass a test for category C1E. If you got your driving entitle

Crossover concept debuts have been plentiful at the NAIAS in Detroit. Nissan has also posted a new press release announcing the global debut of their new " Nissan Resonance" concept which took place at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. They describe the all-new fuel-efficient hybrid concept as having a "dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category with boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling". Resonance was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. The designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective. The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the bonnet and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the fl

This week the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has released tips for parents of young drivers, as research conducted shows that 55% of young drivers are distracted while driving if they are carrying passengers, 45% by the scenery and 44% by the radio - while around a quarter said they would find acceptable to speed at night (24%) or on country roads (26%). Last year there was much talk about placing strict limits on young drivers and those discussions look to be continuing. It's understandable when disturbingly the statistics point out that the single biggest cause of accidental death of young people aged 15-24 is getting in a car and dying in a crash. The Campaign for Safe Young Drivers wants radical change to the driving test system – to make the roads safer for under 25s and everyone else. They would like to see: One year minimum learning period Limiting the number of passengers allowed in a car with a new young driver Curfew on night time driving Zero tolerance on

In this week's instalment of the Essential Guide to Van Specification , we briefly explore the next piece of equipment and/or accessories your vehicle specification should cover. The main types of equipment and accessories can be grouped as follows: •Internal linings and bulkheads (covered in last week’s guide ) • Load restraints • Aids to loading and unloading • Lifting aids • Roof racks and access ladders • Roof vents • Beacons and blaze bars • Aerodynamics This week we take a look at Load Restraints. It’s important to implement practical load restraint or lifting systems that ensure safe and efficient operations and comply with the legal requirements. To read the latest guide page, please click here .

Another global concept debut took place at this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Honda has unveiled details of their all- new " Urban SUV Concept" which is currently scheduled to be launched in Japan at the end of 2013 and in the U.S. in 2014. Honda also says it will be introduced into the European market at a later unspecified date. So what will this future Urban SUV offer? Honda describe it as, "designed to provide aesthetic cues for an all-new small SUV, showcases clean and sophisticated styling, dynamic lines and a strong stance. The small SUV will be rolled out across the world and will be powered by Honda’s fuel-efficient Earth Dreams Technology. The new model will utilise Honda’s original centre-tank layout that features on the Honda Jazz and will also incorporate Honda’s famous Magic Seats that enable a range of seating configurations for maximum versatility." We will have to wait and see whether it will be able to fill a pl

For those who may still have questions about or are unsure as to exactly what an electric van has to offer, a new animation tool designed to provide a user-friendly and engaging introduction to electric vehicles has been launched by Green-Car-Guide.com and supported by the London Borough of Camden and the Energy Saving Trust. To help alleviate some EV myths, the guide explains the differences between electric, plug-in hybrid and extended-range electric vehicles, and communicates the many benefits that electric vehicles offer to motorists, including lower running costs. Electric vehicles don’t produce any tailpipe emissions, so they’re ideal for use in areas that have air quality challenges. Among one of the many benefits of owning one is the savings on fuel costs associated with these types of vehicles. Electric cars cost £2 to £3 to fully charge, which gives a typical range of 100 miles. In comparison a petrol or diesel car costs £12 to £18 to drive 100 miles. Not forgetting to also

The latest news from the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit this week is the announcement of Volkswagens new SUV concept, the CrossBlue. Designed in Germany and developed specifically for the U.S. and Canada, the concept is 4,987 mm long, 2,015 mm wide and 1,733 mm high. It will be equipped with seating for six over three rows. If/when it goes ahead into production; it would sit above the Tiguan and below the Touareg in the Volkswagen SUV line-up. The CrossBlue features a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a TDI engine with two electric motors, a DSG transmission, and an electric all-wheel-drive system dubbed ‘propshaft by wire’, and offers economy of 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres, or 134.5 mpg (Volkswagen’s manufacturer estimated fuel economy rating in US gallons is 89 mpg combined in electric mode and 35 mpg as a hybrid) . The CrossBlue will have two ‘fuel doors’: one for the diesel tank on the passenger side, and one covering two electrical sockets on the

Renault just released details introducing their first urban crossover, Captur, based on the same platform as the New Clio. Most crossovers are described as vehicles that have the body of an SUV (or minivan), but are based on a car chassis thus making them lighter and smoother to drive. Although they may look similar to an SUV, they are not necessarily meant to tread heavily off road (if at all) due the much lighter platform. The crossover will likely become even more popular as more people who drive larger vehicles require not only more passenger space, but better fuel economy and these vehicles can offer that and more. Renault say that the Captur will stand out from the crowd by delivering the best of three different worlds; it will have the expressive styling and driving position of an SUV, the cabin space and modular interior of an MPV, and the agility and driving enjoyment of a compact hatchback .  Its original concept was debuted at last year’s Geneva Motor Show. I’m glad the actu

 In the current economic climate, many vehicle owners are looking for ways to save a bit of cash and recent reports say drivers are cutting back on essential motoring maintenance as one way of achieving this. According to a new TyreSafe campaign, Tyre safety remains a significant problem in the UK. The latest figures available from the DfT show that in 2011 there were more than 1,100 tyre related casualties on the UK’s roads. To ensure we are all familiar with the risks of purchasing part worn tyres, TyreSafe will be hosting its first ever webinar on Monday 25 th February. The session is free to join and will provide attendees with a summary of the legislations affecting the sale of part worn tyres. It will also deliver some practical advice on how the tyres should be inspected, common problems to look for and what steps must be taken to ensure used tyres are sold legally. It is estimated that more than four million part worn tyres are now sold annually in the UK. Each part worn tyre

The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has recently issued their weekly advice on driving on snow and ice, with increasingly chilly conditions arriving across the UK, bringing with it the threat of snowfall. IAM Chief Examiner Peter Rodger said: “When there’s snow on the ground, avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary, and don’t ignore police warnings or advice to not travel on specific routes. Can you work remotely or change your schedule?” Unfortunately for most of us this is just not an option, so if you really must drive in these conditions, then please take a moment to read the helpful advice from the IAM. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycling and cycling. They offer valuable advice and information, especially on their winter driving campaign website. Below are just a few points of advice from the IAM press release on driving safely through this wet/wintery period: Make sure your

Vauxhall proudly announced yesterday that the first ADAM rolled off Eisenach production line. Steve Girsky, GM’s Vice Chairman and GM Europe’s President, declared that the first ADAM off the line marked a ‘new era’ for Vauxhall/Opel. The first ADAM was driven off the line at Opel/Vauxhall’s Thuringia factory by Steve Girsky, accompanied by 2009 European Athletics Indoor Champion, Ariane Friedrich. This supermini has been billed as the most flexible car in its class, with 61,000 exterior variations and 82,000 different ways to ‘design’ the interior. Its appeal seems to be aimed towards the youthful urban market, but should also attract those looking for an affordable economical small car with its combined fuel consumption and CO 2 as low as 56.5mpg and 118g/km. Vauxhall's clever marketing team have characterised the likely buyers of ADAM as "fashion conscious and place great value on individuality; they don’t just follow trends, they create them.” Does that describe you? Opel/

In the What Car? Awards 2013 results announced this week; Ford has cemented their position as the UK's favourite vehicle manufacturer. Ford has taken top spot in four different What Car? award categories, more than in previous years and more than any other auto maker in contention. According to the latest industry figures, Ford has sold the most cars in the UK for 36 consecutive years and been top commercial vehicle brand for 47 years. That is truly a remarkable accomplishment. As for the What Car? awards they took home, the Ford Mondeo won Best Family Car and Best Estate awards for the third year running. The ever popular Ford Fiesta (the best-selling model of 2012 per SMMT data) was awarded Best Supermini and rounding out the quadruple hat trick of accolades was the Best Hot Hatch winner, the sporty Ford Focus ST. Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief, said: “Ford really deserves its four What Car? category awards, it’s a fantastic achievement. It’s great to see a mainstream vo

Mercedes-Benz has released pricing details on their new Citan van. The new Citan compact van marks Mercedes-Benz's entry into the small van market. This is the van I have been most interested in, as its appeal comes not only from Mercedes-Benz high end customer care, its practical features that come standard, but also because the Citan is ideally suited to transporting goods; capable of carrying loads of up to 735 kg and a volume of up to 3.8 m3.  Mercedes-Benz suggests the Citan is able to perform like a hero by combining an attractive design with high quality standards and not forgetting to mention its low fuel consumption and low CO 2 emissions. It all adds up to make the Citan a brilliant choice for your next van. If you haven't already had a look at the Citan's official microsite , you should take a moment to check it out. Mercedes-Benz created an advertising campaign featuring webisodes of Richard Dean Anderson reprising his role as TVs’ MacGyver. It is a very enterta

Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles have declared that they sold more vans to retail customers than any other manufacturer for the second consecutive year, according to figures released recently by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. In a press release posted on Monday, the Luton-based manufacturer shared their impressive sales figures despite the SMMT reporting that commercial vehicle registrations were down 5.9% in 2012 and van registrations down 7.9% for the January-December period. Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles managed to sell over 11,000 vehicles to small businesses while accumulating a 16.11% per cent market share, topping the monthly retail sales charts in March, April, September and December. The company who say they have built over 50,000 vans in 2012 also reported that the British-built Vivaro topped the medium van segment for the second year running. “We are delighted to retain the market leading position for the second year in a row,” said Richard Collier, Vauxhall’s Na

Ford has proudly announced that Andrew Wilkinson, owner of H2O Cleaning Contractors in Lincoln, bought the first all-new Ford Transit Custom sold in the UK. The high-tech window cleaning service purchased and drove straight off from Evans Halshaw Ford dealership the same day, making them the first customer to take delivery of Ford’s award-winning van. The Transit Custom is the first of several Ford commercial vehicle models to be introduced that will form a whole new line-up by 2014. What makes this an ideal work van is that it has a number of new load space features such as the load-through hatch in the bulkhead for extra-long items, and the integrated roof rack which can be folded away when not in use. For the driver, the benefits include the latest Ford technologies such as Lane Keeping Aid and Ford SYNC. Notably what this van can potentially offer an independent operation or a larger fleet is it offers strong residual values, a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and class-leading lo

As well as the core vehicle components discussed in the previous sections of the Essential Guide to Van Specification, you will need to consider what extra features and accessories your vehicle specification should cover. It is important to fully understand the potential operational impacts that additional equipment and accessories can have on the selected van as well as to consider the nature of the operation to see whether any equipment is necessary and where this fits into the vehicle specification process. Where additional equipment and accessories are specified, drivers must also consider proper training in their safe operational use. The main types of equipment and accessories can be grouped as follows: • Internal linings and bulkheads • Load restraints • Aids to loading and unloading • Lifting aids • Roof racks and access ladders • Roof vents • Beacons and blaze bars • Aerodynamics This week's Essential Guide to Van Specification will cover additional equipment and accessori

Have you heard about the new Peugeot 2008 crossover? Peugeot have announced the debut of their Crossover design that they describe as modern, stylish, practical and very capable.  The new crossover by Peugeot is the first vehicle produced by the Marque that was designed and developed simultaneously by several international markets. Peugeot capitalises on its expertise with the 2008, acquired with the success of the award-winning 3008 Crossover, to create an innovative vehicle for the B segment. Set to go on sale here in the UK in the late summer, 2008 builds on the product offensive successfully initiated by the 208, with 20,000 orders in the UK in its first six months on sale. "In the 2008, the Marque has the vehicle that will secure its leadership in the segment in Europe and which will win new customers in Asia and Latin America," said Maxime Picat, Director General of Peugeot. Upmarket and dynamic, the new crossover by Peugeot offers a rich and varied experience in the B

Confused.com have posted an interesting article where they say drivers who use their vehicles for work purposes pose a greater risk on the road. In the post titled, " Working drivers pose greatest risk " written by Chris Torney, the results of a survey conducted by road-safety charity Brake and insurance company Direct Line, surprisingly shows that a significant amount of those polled admitted to not only texting while driving, but also applying make-up, shaving, and regularly driving over the speed limit. Now, I am not normally one to judge, but who in their right mind would apply make-up or shave whilst driving? And better yet, who would actually admit to doing it even if they did? Perhaps I am simply not coordinated enough to even attempt those activities while behind the wheel of a fast moving vehicle that requires my full attention so that I don't cause death or injury to myself and others, or maybe I just possess a bit of common sense and perform them at home befor

Vehicle auction company, BCA has just posted their Pulse report which showed that average values rose sharply in December, the short month for trading. They also say that December was relatively short of stock. Per the post,  used cars averaged £7,361, a significant month-on-month rise of £940 (14.6%) compared to November and the highest monthly figure on record.  Year-on-year, December 2012 was ahead by £910 or 14.1%. Model mix was largely responsible for the increase, says BCA. As they sold a greater proportion of high value fleet/lease and nearly-new cars during December, while dealer part-exchange volumes fell in the immediate pre-Christmas period.  BCA also sold an increased number of high value vehicles via the online Buy Now channel over the Christmas break. Alongside the change in mix, professional buyers were relatively active in December, competing to secure stock for retail forecourts over the usually busy New Year period.   Values improved in all three sectors, with year-on