mandjtailoring

How AI is Revolutionising the Automotive Industry

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 13 May 2024 08:23:07 GMT

For automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, the era of artificial intelligence (AI) disrupting the automotive realm is no longer a distant concept – it’s an imminent reality poised to rewrite the very foundations of how vehicles are designed, manufactured, and experienced.

From pioneering self-driving capabilities to intelligent manufacturing overhauls, AI is catalysing a transformation that will reverberate across the entire automotive ecosystem.

T he Autonomous Driving Era

Perhaps the most obvious example of AI’s influence is the rapid progression towards fully autonomous vehicles. These autonomous wonders have a cybernetic knowledge of their surroundings that surpasses human limitations, thanks to a sophisticated integration of sensor technology, computer vision, and machine learning.

Being able to perceive, analyse and respond to traffic scenarios in real-time, autonomous AI systems are poised to redefine the very concept of mobility.

However, AI’s impact goes far beyond self-navigating technology.

Innovative driver-assistance features, powered by artificial intelligence, are elevating road safety to previously unheard-of heights. From emergency braking systems that can react with split-second precision to lane-keeping assistants and tiredness monitoring, AI co-pilots are fortifying our journeys with an unwavering digital guardian.

AI is also playing a pivotal role in the rise of electric vehicles . As automakers race to bring more EVs to market, AI is lending its computational prowess to optimise battery management systems, extending range and charging efficiency. With their innately green characteristics, AI-assisted EVs have the potential to lead the way in sustainable mobility.

S ustainable Engineering

Artificial Intelligence is leading the way in creating highly efficient, low-emission cars that balance efficiency and environmental conscience, catering to those who recognise the urgency of environmental sustainability. Intelligent hybrid and electric powertrain management systems are maximising energy consumption, squeezing every last volt to extend the range and reduce environmental impact.

Additionally, AI-driven design simulations enable automotive manufacturers to rapidly iterate and refine aerodynamic, lightweight vehicle architectures optimised for minimum fuel consumption and emissions . AI is leading the way in the creation of extremely efficient, low-emission cars that balance performance and environmental consciousness, for individuals who understand the criticality of environmental sustainability. Smart electric and hybrid powertrain management systems are making the most of every volt to increase range and lessen their negative effects on the environment.

Car makers are also able to quickly iterate and improve aerodynamic, lightweight vehicle architectures that are optimised for the lowest possible fuel consumption and emissions thanks to AI-driven design simulations. The automobile sector is positioned as a leader in sustainable mobility because of this rapid development cycle, which is driving the spread of environmentally friendly transportation options.

M anufacturing Transition

While intelligent cars receive much-deserved attention, AI is subtly bringing about a manufacturing comeback in the background. AI is eliminating the inefficiencies and quality control problems that historically beset assembly lines by streamlining supply chains, coordinating collaborative robotics processes, and optimising production schedules.

Some companies are already implementing solutions where AI can automatically identify defective wafers during production with pinpoint accuracy. This level of intelligent monitoring heralds a new era of elevated craftsmanship, where imperfections are systematically eliminated, raising the bar for quality across every make and model.

N ext Level Driving Experience

No transformation in automotive technology would be complete without elevating the fundamental driving experience itself. Through the convergence of voice interfaces, eye-tracking, emotion detection and personalisation algorithms, AI is revolutionising vehicles into intuitive, tailored copilots that cherish the individuality of each driver.

Imagine an in-car assistant that gets to know your habits, needs, and even emotional states, seamlessly adjusting climate controls, infotainment, and ergonomic settings to cultivate your ideal driving environment. AI recommendation engines can leverage these personalised insights to curate the perfect vehicle tailored to your unique preferences and lifestyle.

T he Road Ahead

The influence artificial intelligence is having on the automotive sector is undeniable. The application of AI is the impetus behind a broad revolution that will completely reshape the transportation industry, from the realisation of autonomous mobility to intelligent manufacturing techniques and environmentally friendly car designs.

For those who embrace this technological vanguard, the rewards are multifaceted – effortless self-driving capabilities, manufacturing prowess elevating quality and craftsmanship, eco-conscious engineering harmonising performance with sustainability, and above all, a driving experience diligently customised to each individual.

The road ahead is clear – artificial intelligence is actively changing the automotive industry rather than just being a theoretical idea that is looming large in the distance. The only prudent choice is to fasten your seatbelts and join the AI revolution pioneering the future of mobility. The automotive experience as we’ve known it is primed for disruption, and AI is the engine accelerating us towards this exhilarating new frontier.

Blog Credit

It's Monday Morning - Here's the top 10 Hypercars of 2024

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 09:48:00 GMT

Here’s our top 10 performance paragons, each one pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the pursuit of performance.

Each one is a high octane thrill ride that’ll have no doubt broken the speed odd record as it stakes its claim on a place in the automotive hall of fame.

1. Aston Martin Valkyrie

When it comes to design philosophy, it would be best to describe the Aston Martin Valkyrie as ‘uncompromising’. The brainchild of Red Bull F1 technical director and all-round aerodynamic genius, Adrian Newey, the jaw-dropping British machine has been created to deliver the ultimate in outright performance, with nothing coming between it and its lap times-smashing goal.

2. Pininfarina Battista

With a 1876bhp on tap, true hypercar pace was never going to be a problem for the Pininfarina Battista, even when you consider that this carbonfibre-hulled machine tips the scales at a not inconsiderable 2200kg. Essentially a reskinned Rimac Nevera, the Battista is one of the first of an all-new generation of high-performance electric cars that have their eyes firmly focused on a future where the internal combustion engine is put out to pasture. The car's raw statistics certainly make for startling reading, with a 0-62mph taking less than 2sec and 186mph coming up after only 12sec

3. Lotus Evija

If you were in any doubt about which way the high performance wind was blowing, then the appearance of two EVs in our hypercar top 10 should leave you in no doubt. We love high-revving, noisy, fast and dramatic combustion-engined machines, but the appeal of instant, walloping, vectored-per-corner torque isn’t hard to deny - and the Lotus Evija serves that up in spades.

4. Bugatti Chiron

Where the Veyron used aluminium spaceframe construction, the Chiron has a lighter carbonfibre monocoque. Where the Veyron stopped short of 1200bhp in its final forms, the Chiron ups that to nearly 1500bhp.

Where the Veyron left Bugatti's top speed yardstick at 268mph, the Chiron has, in 1578bhp Super Sport form, taken what has become an increasingly highly contested world production car speed record up beyond the 300mph marker, where it currently rests at 304.7mph.

5. McLaren Senna

The Senna is a car of truly astonishing track abilities. Even though its not the most powerful car to have lapped our dry handling circuit, it has such phenomenal reserves of grip that it smashed our dry-handling track lap record by fully a second-and-a-half when we road-tested it in 2018. Developing some 800kg of downforce at its peak, and with a growling V8 of just under 800bhp, it's a car you expect to be a nerve-testing challenge on track and almost impossible to drive on the road. The simple fact is that neither is true.

6. Ferrari LaFerrari

Ferrari's top-of-the-tree hypercar is nothing less than the greatest and most sensational peak that the performance car has ever reached. Powered by an incredible, spine-tingling, naturally aspirated, 789bhp 6.3-litre V12 assisted by 161bhp of electric power channelled direct to the rear wheels, the LaFerrari's powertrain makes an incredible 950bhp all told.

Although we never got the chance to strap our timing gear to one, Ferrari claims the car hurls itself from 0-62mph in just 2.4sec and to 186mph in just 15sec.

7. McLaren P1

McLaren's first Ultimate Series car had to follow in the footsteps of the firm's legendary and celebrated F1, which built the company a worldwide reputation all by itself. McLaren resisted the temptation to make the P1 a modern facsimile of the F1 , however, instead having a 903bhp hybrid-electric powertrain, a two-seat interior, state-of-the-art suspension technology, lightweight construction and competition-grade aerodynamics to deliver the fastest, most focused and most exciting performance car it could imagine, fit for equally unprecedented thrills on both road and track.

8. Porsche 918 Spyder

This car can be driven for around 15 miles on electric power alone and then charged up at home to do it all again. In time-honoured Porsche supercar type, it's little harder to drive than the 718 Boxster – and it's a convertible.

But it also has a motorsport-derived normally aspirated V8 engine that revs to almost 9000rpm and makes the car both raw and exciting in full-bore mode. There's four-wheel drive, too, and more than 900lb ft of torque, making the 918 Spyder accelerate from rest with true savagery.

9. Pagani Huayra

Driven by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 from Mercedes-AMG, the Huayra did indeed prove itself to be a physically challenging driver's car from the old-school, with handling demanding respect and every shred of your concentration if you dared disable the stability aids.

But it's beautifully communicative and honest, too, and so rich, immersive and special to drive at almost any speed as to be totally intoxicating.

10. Zenvo TSR-S

With its wild looks and brain-spinning 1177bhp power output, the Zenvo certainly packs the raw statistics to be considered a true hypercar. Yet it's the car's unique tilting rear wing that attracts all the headlines, lifting at either end when cornering to help reduce body roll and boot grip. Either way, this daring Danish (yes, really) machine is a fairly exciting steer, its twin-supercharged 5.8-litre V8 delivering 0-124mph in 6.8sec (around the same time as a McLaren Senna, should you ask). It also drives the rear wheels through a motorsport-style seven-speed sequential transmission complete with straight-cut gears, which is great for reduced power loss but less so for refinement.
Blog Credit

Top ten car check providers

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:39:34 GMT

If you are considering purchasing a second-hand vehicle, you want to get this right. The last thing that you need is to buy a dud of a car simply because you didn’t take the time to check everything properly.

The good news is that there are plenty of car check providers online, meaning that even if you’re not getting all of the information from the seller, you can find it with a quick search. But how do you know which are the reliable car check providers and which are not? Fear not! We’ve tested 10 providers currently on the market.

Read on to find out which is best.

What Makes A Car Check Provider A Good Choice?

People often wonder how to decide which car they should purchase, especially if they are purchasing a used car. It’s important that if you are buying from a private seller, you’re completing your own check on a vehicle before you make the purchase to ensure that there are no hidden issues.

Finding a good website to do this is a crucial step to protecting your investment..

Auto Reg Check

Claiming the top spot in our best car check providers test is Auto Reg Check . With a 12-point history check and comprehensive information on offer about any car, this site was our favourite to use and it was also the most visually appealing. We couldn’t get enough of innovative features like the eco score – it became quite addictive trying out different cars and discovering their eco-impact!

There’s up to 20% off across the site as well, and they do a basic check for free.

Instant Car Check

Next up, Instant Car Check is another good option. Easy to use, the bar to type in the reg is the first thing that comes up when you open the website.

Simply ensure that you have the correct vehicle registration, and this site will run a check for you. However, they do not offer any free check.

Check Reg

Check Reg is the third choice on our list, and it’s an interesting tool to use. Contained within the free report, you can expect to find an MOT history, basic vehicle information, tax information, and the V5C logbook date.

Full Car Checks

Full Car Checks are another reliable source of information, ensuring that you can make smart decisions when it comes to purchasing a second-hand vehicle.

Car Reg Checks

Another option is Car Reg Checks, which is just as easy to use as the others on this list. It gives you all of the basic history checks such as MOT history and write-off claims..

Motorcheck

Motor Check can also help ensure you make the right vehicle choice. By providing you with all the necessary details about any given vehicle, you can ensure that you’re making informed decisions with up-to-date information.

Total Car Check

Another option available to you is Total Car Check. A highly rated car check website, you can get everything you need at the click of a button.

Free Car Check

Free Car Check is the last on the list and does exactly what it says on the tin! This site provides you with a free car check, ensuring that you’re not buying stolen property, that there have been no cases of switched plates and so on. Hopefully, you have found this article helpful and will make sure that you use one of these sites in the future if you purchase a used car. It is always better to be safe than sorry, even if you delay the purchase a little while you research the vehicle. We wish you the very best of luck and hope you purchase a car you love.

Blog Credit

Understanding the Different Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 11:46:06 GMT

The world of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) in the UK is diverse and tailored to meet various mobility needs. These vehicles are not just a mode of transportation; they represent independence and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Here, we delve into the different types of WAVs available, helping you navigate through your options.

The world of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) in the UK is diverse and tailored to meet various mobility needs. These vehicles are not just a mode of transportation; they represent independence and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Here, we delve into the different types of WAVs available, helping you navigate through your options.

Size.

One of the primary categories of WAVs is the size-based classification. Small WAVs are often the most economical choice. They are typically converted from standard small cars and are perfect for city driving due to their compact size. These vehicles usually accommodate one wheelchair user and are ideal for individuals or small families. The conversions often involve a lowered floor and a ramp for easy access.

Medium-sized WAVs offer more space and are commonly based on larger family cars or small vans. They can typically accommodate up to two wheelchair users and provide additional seating for other passengers. The extra space in medium WAVs allows for more equipment to be carried, which is beneficial for those who need to transport medical equipment or luggage.

Large WAVs are converted from vans and provide the most space. They can carry multiple wheelchair users and several other passengers. Large WAVs are well-suited for organisations such as care homes or for larger families. These vehicles often come with advanced features like electric lifts and multiple entry points, providing greater flexibility and comfort.

Entry Method.

Apart from size, WAVs can also be categorised based on the entry method. Rear-entry WAVs allow the wheelchair user to enter from the back of the vehicle. This type is particularly advantageous in tight parking spaces as it does not require extra room at the sides for access. However, it’s essential to have sufficient space behind the vehicle for deploying the ramp or lift.

Side-entry WAVs offer the advantage of parking in standard parking spaces without needing extra room at the rear. They are ideal for wheelchair users who prefer to sit in the front passenger position or drive the vehicle themselves. However, they require additional space on the side for ramp deployment, which can be a limitation in narrow parking areas.

Another aspect to consider is the internal configuration of the WAV, which includes the seating arrangement and the position of the wheelchair user. Some WAVs allow the wheelchair user to ride upfront, next to the driver, enhancing social interaction. Others have a configuration where the wheelchair user is positioned in the rear, which can offer more space and comfort.

Drive-from wheelchair and passenger-upfront WAVs are specialised types that cater to specific needs. Drive-from wheelchair WAVs are adapted so that the wheelchair user can drive the vehicle while remaining in their wheelchair. These vehicles are customised with hand controls and other modifications tailored to the driver’s requirements. Passenger-upfront WAVs, on the other hand, allow the wheelchair user to sit alongside the driver, promoting a more inclusive experience.

In addition to these types, it’s also important to consider the method of access into the WAV. Ramps are a common feature, with some being manual and others electrically powered for ease of use. Lifts are typically found in larger WAVs and are ideal for heavier wheelchairs or when the wheelchair user requires more assistance.

The choice of a WAV depends on several factors, including the size and weight of the wheelchair, the number of passengers, lifestyle, and personal preferences. For instance, a small WAV might be sufficient for daily errands and city driving, while a larger WAV could be more suitable for long journeys or those requiring extra space for equipment.

It’s crucial to consult with mobility experts before making a decision. They can provide guidance on the most suitable WAV based on individual needs and can also offer opportunities for test drives. Organisations like Motability and independent dealerships across the UK offer a range of WAVs and can assist in the selection process.

The world of WAVs is rich and varied, catering to a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether it’s a small, medium, or large WAV, rear or side entry, each type has its unique features designed to enhance mobility and independence. Understanding the different types of WAVs and their specific features can significantly aid in making an informed decision, ultimately leading to a more comfortable and inclusive driving experience.

Blog Credit

Celebrate Year Of The Dragon With This 1-Of-1 Bugatti Veyron

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:43:57 GMT

Chinese New Year is just around the corner, and in case you weren’t up on your zodiac, it’s the Year of the Dragon. The perfect excuse, then - just in case you needed one - to pick up an appropriately themed car.

During its 10-year lifespan, the Bugatti Veyron was no stranger to the world of hyper-exclusive special editions and wild one-off commissions. You had the Pur Sang, the Sang Noir, the L’Or Blanc, the Bleu Centenaire… at some points, it felt like there were more specials and one-offs than regular production cars.

In 2012 came this: the Veyron Grand Sport Wei Long 2012. It was introduced at that year’s Beijing Motor Show, in celebration of the previous Year of the Dragon. There are two themes that run throughout this car: dragons and porcelain. The latter has been used to make inserts on the oil and fuel filler caps, the wheel centre caps and a relief sculpture of a dragon that sits on the firewall, between the two bright red seats. Oh, and the body colour is called Porcelain White. All that porcelain comes from German company KPM, which is one of the most revered manufacturers of the fragile white stuff in the world. Apparently.

Dragons, meanwhile, can be found on the aforementioned sculpture and filler cap inserts. It also has the Chinese character for ‘dragon’ carved into the porcelain centre caps and embroidered on the headrests. The Wei Long was number 50 of the 58 convertible Veyron Grand Sports built using the car’s famous 8.0-litre, quad-turbocharged W16 in its original state of tune. In case you needed a reminder of those at the time game-changing numbers, they are 987bhp, 922lb ft of torque, a top speed of 253mph and a 0-62 time of around 2.7 seconds.

A one-off car, it’s spent its life gallivanting around Europe. It was delivered new to Switzerland, before being registered in the UK in 2016 and then heading to its current home of Monaco at some stage after that. It’s been used pretty sparingly in that time, with the equivalent of 5237 miles showing on its odometer. The Wei Long is being sold on Collecting Cars , with the auction ending on 18 February. At the time of writing, with 10 days to go, the highest bid is €300,500, which is around £256,000. Given that the absolute minimum entry point these days for a, ahem, ‘basic’ Veyron 16.4 coupe is around £1 million, expect that number to go up by the end of the auction. A lot.

Blog Credit

The Photography of André Van Bever

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 07:16:19 GMT

Throughout his career, André Van Bever chronicled motor racing history, from Juan Manuel Fangio in 1949 to Niki Lauda in 1975, making him one of the most renowned visual witnesses of post-war motorsport.

His archive, comprising of almost 29,000 photographs, has now found its home at the Revs Institute, marking a significant milestone in its mission to preserve and celebrate the heritage of the automobile.

The images will be indexed and digitised, making Van Bever’s work even more accessible to researchers, scholars, and the motorsport community through the Revs Digital Library.

Revs Institute, located in Naples, Florida, USA, is recognised as one of the top automotive museums in the world. They aim to study and honour the automobile seeing it not just as an advanced machine but also as a powerful force for important social and economic change. The museum boasts a curated collection of over 100 historically important, rare, and socially significant vehicles. Additionally, Revs Institute houses an extensive archive and library featuring books, periodicals, photos, ephemera, brochures, advertisements and technical publications in multiple languages.

Photos © Courtesy of Rev Institute
Blog Credit

Innovative Car Design of the Future

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 10:54:39 GMT

The car industry moves at breakneck speed, with new innovations and ideas coming to the fore every year. As we adapt to new technology, car manufacturers rush to implement it to make driving safer, more economical and more enjoyable. Over the years, there have been a lot of big changes, and cars on the road today look and drive very differently to those of previous decades.

What will cars of the future look like? Well while flying cars might be a fantasy, that doesn’t mean that the next generation of cars won’t be highly futuristic. Here are some of the most interesting and innovative designs that we could see on the road over the next few years.

Heads Up Displays and Imaging Improvements

When you’re driving, it’s incredibly important to be able to see everything happening around you. Staying alert to potential hazards as they develop is key to avoiding serious accidents, and better technology may help to improve road safety standards. One area of technology that’s been trialled in road cars before is heads up displays. These project important information onto the windshield. This can help drivers focus on the road ahead of them rather than looking down at instrument panels. When combined with cameras and AI, heads up displays could even recognise potential hazards and warn drivers as they appear.

Most modern cars are equipped with parking sensors and cameras to aid drivers, and special imaging tools could also help to improve safety while driving at night. A thermal camera can pick up shapes and objects in low light, helping drivers avoid potential collisions with animals that run onto the road out of the dark.

Autonomous Driving

Autonomous driving has been big news over the past few years, with companies like Tesla trialling it on roads across the world. While the idea of a driverless car might seem scary, AI can be trained to respond to hazards and react much faster than a human. The difficult part is training it properly, and there have been some teething issues.

Despite some of the much-publicised issues with autonomous driving , many experts still believe that this will be the future of driving. People will be able to get into their car and take a nap while on a long journey, or spend their time working while taking their morning commute. The technology still has a long way to go, but if it helps reduce accidents, it will be worth it..

Improved Sustainability

Making cars more sustainable is an important goal of manufacturers and governments all over the world. For a long time, we’ve relied on the combustion engine to get around, but the results of burning fossil fuels is damaging to the environment. Now, with the effects of climate change taking hold, it’s more important than ever to focus on sustainability. Electric vehicles seem to be the way things are going, with most major manufacturers now releasing their own EV line. Some companies such as Honda have even announced that they plan to only sell electric and fuel cell electric cars by the near future. Fast charging and improvements to battery loads and capacities are helping electric become a better alternative, and one that can be fully sustainable if the electricity is obtained through renewable sources.

Blog Credit

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Used Car Dealership

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 11:35:52 GMT

Buying a used car can be exciting, offering affordability and a wide range of options. However, finding the right used car dealership is the key to a successful purchase.

With numerous dealerships, it can be overwhelming to determine which one will provide a reliable vehicle and a seamless buying experience.

In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with the essential factors to consider when selecting the perfect used car dealership.

Research, Research, Research!

Invest time in thorough research before embarking on your used car buying journey. Start by identifying reputable used car dealerships in your area. Look for online reviews, ratings, and testimonials from previous customers.

Please pay attention to any recurring positive or negative feedback, as it can provide valuable insights into the dealership’s credibility and customer service.

Variety of Inventory

One of the primary advantages of choosing a used car dealership is the wide range of vehicle options available. A good dealership should have a diverse inventory encompassing various makes, models, and price ranges. Considering your specific needs and preferences, such as vehicle type, mileage, and features, and ensure that the dealership offers an extensive selection.

Quality Assurance

Reliability and quality should be top priorities when buying a used car. Look for dealerships that have a reputation for offering well-maintained vehicles. Inquire about their inspection and certification processes. Reputable dealerships often provide comprehensive inspections, reconditioning services, and extended warranties, giving you peace of mind regarding the vehicle’s condition and reliability.

Transparent Pricing

Pricing transparency is crucial when purchasing a used car. Look for dealerships that display the prices of their vehicles, including any additional fees or charges. Avoid dealerships that engage in deceptive pricing practices or add-ons that inflate the final price. A reputable dealership should provide you with all the necessary pricing information upfront, allowing you to make an informed decision.

Financing Options

Most buyers rely on financing to purchase a used car. When choosing a dealership, inquire about their financing options. A reputable dealership will have relationships with multiple lenders, ensuring you can access competitive interest rates and flexible payment plans. Ask about the financing application process, requirements, and any special financing offers that may be available.

After-Sales Support

A good dealership’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the point of sale. Inquire about their after-sales support services, such as maintenance and repairs. Some dealerships offer complimentary or discounted services for a specific period after the purchase. Others may partner with local service centers to provide convenient and reliable maintenance options. Ensure that the dealership you choose is committed to assisting you throughout the ownership experience.

The overall customer experience is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a used car dealership. Pay attention to how the dealership’s staff interacts with you. Are they knowledgeable, attentive, and respectful? A reputable dealership will prioritize customer satisfaction, offering a friendly and professional environment. Trust your instincts and choose a dealership where you feel comfortable and confident.

Selecting the right used car dealership is vital to ensure a smooth and satisfactory buying experience. You can make an informed decision by conducting thorough research, considering the variety of inventory, prioritizing quality assurance, seeking transparent pricing, evaluating financing options, assessing after-sales support, and valuing exceptional customer service. Remember, a reliable dealership will guide you through the process, helping you find the perfect used car that meets your needs, budget, and preferences. Happy car hunting!

Blog Credit

First sustainable fuel for classic vehicles launched

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 08:46:10 GMT

The UK’s first publicly available sustainable petrol designed specifically for classic vehicles has gone on sale.

The Sustain Classic range will allow motorists to fuel their vintage vehicles with plant-based petrol, without any modifications to their engines, with three types of fuel initially available.

Developed by fuel specialist Coryton, the fuel with the highest sustainable content promises a reduction of at least 65% in greenhouse gas emissions when compared to fossil fuels.

The pioneering products...

Use advanced second-generation biofuel manufactured from agricultural waste, such as straw, by-products or waste from crops which wouldn’t be used for consumption.

By doing so, the fuel utilises the carbon that already exists in our atmosphere, which the plants absorb as they grow, recycling it, rather than releasing additional CO2 that is currently locked underground in fossil fuel.

With an octane number >98 and bio-ethanol content of <1%, Sustain Classic has been technically tailored for classic vehicles, although it can be used on any vehicle which runs on standard forecourt petrol. It’s also formulated with a premium additive package included, which stabilises and extends the life of the fuel and helps clean and protect the engines.

Priced from £3.80 per litre...

Sustain Classic will be available from distributor Motor Spirit at Bicester Heritage from 13th June, with more stockists launching across the UK in the coming months.

There are currently three variants of the drop-in replacement fuel available. All are suitable for all year-round use.

Super 80

Created at least 80% renewable content
Delivers a GHG saving of more than 65%, compared to fossil fuels
98RON (Super Unleaded) EN228 Compliant
Multifunctional deposit control additive package reduces existing deposits and maintains engine cleanliness and performance with regular use
Priced from £4.65 per litre

Super 33

Created at least 33% sustainable content
Delivers a GHG saving of more than 25%, compared to fossil fuels
98RON (Super Unleaded) EN228 Compliant
Multifunctional deposit control additive package reduces existing deposits and maintains engine cleanliness and performance with regular use
Priced from £3.80 per litre

Racing 50

High performance sustainable petrol ideal for performance and racing use in vehicles that require a higher-octane fuel
Created at least 50% renewable content
Delivers a GHG saving of more than 35%, compared to fossil fuels
102RON, for high octane applications, EN228 Compliant
Premium deposit control additives reduce existing deposits and maintain engine cleanliness and performance with regular use
Priced from £5.24 per litre

The fuels

Range from at least 33% sustainable content to at least 80%. “Every kilogram of CO2 we avoid adding to our atmosphere, by replacing fossil fuel with sustainable fuel, is a win,” said David Richardson, Business Development Director at Coryton.

“We don’t instantly have to go for the full switch to start making a genuine impact. As more feedstocks become available, these fuels will start to contain even higher levels of traceable sustainable elements.

“However, we want to keep things as affordable as possible for consumers and be open about what’s actually achievable at the moment.

“The availability of true fossil free fuel components is limited. So, we’re setting truthful and realistic goals, producing fuels that have a meaningful impact whilst meeting the demands of the user.”

Guy Lachlan, who heads up Motor Spirit at Bicester Heritage (one of the distributors of Sustain Classic), added: “We’re very excited to be the launch partner for Coryton’s Sustain Classic fuel.

“It is vital for the future of Classic Cars and Motorcycles that environmentally-friendly liquid fuels are commercially available, and Motor Spirit’s facility at Bicester Heritage is the perfect location to start an environmental revolution.

“Sustain Classic represents the best available combination of usability, sustainability and quality: exactly in line with Motor Spirit’s ethos.”

Blog Credit

Latest petrol and diesel fuel prices

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 07:07:24 GMT

The latest average UK fuel prices

As of 21st May 2023, are 143.97p for petrol and 150.8p for diesel, according to the RAC.

Fuel prices in the UK reached record highs in 2022, with the average price of petrol hitting 191.53p-per-litre and diesel reaching 199.05p in July.

Although fuel prices in the UK have fallen in recent months, there is still a considerable difference between petrol and diesel prices - currently 11.75p a litre

The RAC is concerned

That drivers are being charged over the odds for diesel. This is despite diesel being cheaper for retailers to buy on the wholesale market for all of April 2023.

This remains bad news for drivers amid the cost of living crisis, with the rate of inflation still above 10%, driven by the cost of housing and bills.

Some good news is that fuel prices are steadily coming down compared to 2022 when the average price of unleaded was 165.06p with diesel an eye-watering 178.13p.

Why are fuel prices still so high?

The simple explanation is that the cost of a barrel of oil has risen. In 2020 the wholesale price of a barrel of crude oil was around $40.

At the start of January 2022 the cost of oil was $79 but this had risen to $92 by the end of the month and went above $100 per barrel after Russia (the second largest oil producer in the world) invaded neighbouring Ukraine on 24 February 2022, making traders worried about disruption to the global supply chain.

On 1 March 2022 the price of oil had jumped to $112.99 a barrel in response to the Russia-Ukraine war. The RAC predicted this was likely to take the average price of petrol towards 155p a litre and diesel to 160p.

The price of oil

Went on to hit $137.72 a barrel on 8 March 2022 - the highest it has been since 2008, although it fell to $109.98 by the end of the month.

In August 2022 the price of oil dropped under $100 and finished the month on $90.63 a barrel. Prices cames down further in 2023 and by May, the price of a barrel of oil was down to $72.50

When the price of oil rises, fuel retailers usually pass on the cost to consumers at the pumps although they can absorb some of the increases. However, when wholesale prices fall, retailers are reluctant to pass the savings on.

Indeed, fuel retailers have an important role to play in fuel prices. Competition between the 'big four' supermarkets Asda, Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsbury's has helped to reduce prices in the past - when one supermarket giant cuts their fuel prices others often follow.

In 2023

Fuel retailers are once again being heavily criticised for not cutting the cost of fuel at the pumps when the price of oil is dropping.

April 2023 saw a litre of wholesale diesel cost 104.88p – down 9p in the month – whereas unleaded was 111.25p - down 6p.

Despite there being just a 6p difference between the wholesale prices of both diesel and petrol throughout all of April 2023, diesel pump prices are currently almost 12p more than petrol.

According to RAC Fuel Watch, figures show that retailers are today taking an average margin of nearly 22p for every litre of diesel they sell, which is more than double what they took through 2021 and 2022 (average of 9p), and more than three times as much as they did at the start of last year (average of 6p).

The UK Government

Also has a major influence on fuel prices as both fuel duty (currently 52.95pp) and VAT (standard 20% rate) make up the majority of the price of petrol and diesel.

Fuel duty was frozen from March 2011 to March 2023, bringing some relief for drivers in the midst of rising prices, while the former Chancellor Rishi Sunak lowered it by 5ppl in the Spring Budget 2023 .

When the Government introduced E10 petrol in England, Scotland and Wales in September 2021 it had an impact on fuel prices as ethanol is more expensive than petrol.

Other factors which influence wholesale prices, according to the RAC, are: oil refinery production and capacity, the pound to dollar exchange rate, as refined fuel is sold in US dollars per metric tonne and distribution costs.

Blog Credit

Metalbox Remarketing: Driving Positive Change Beyond Vehicle Sales

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 08:09:54 GMT

At First Glance...

At first glance, Metalbox Remarketing might appear to be solely committed to selling vehicles.

While it's true that vehicle sales are at the core of our business, our commitment to making a difference in the community and supporting charitable causes is equally important to us.

In this blog post, we'd like to share the various ways in which Metalbox goes above and beyond to drive positive change in our local community.

Supporting the Shannon Bradshaw Trust

Metalbox Remarketing has a long-standing partnership with the Shannon Bradshaw Trust, a charity close to our Managing Director and his family. Established 20 years ago, the trust provides invaluable assistance to families facing difficult circumstances.

To support their admirable efforts, we donate £5.00 for every vehicle we sell. This year, we're on track to donate several thousand pounds at the trust's annual summer ball in June.

Fighting Food Waste and Helping the Community

Our involvement in the local community doesn't stop there. We're proud to support Filey's Community Fridge, an incredible initiative led by our MD's wife, Dianne.

Over the past four years, the project has grown significantly, redistributing food that would otherwise go to waste to individuals, couples, and families affected by the cost of living crisis.

Providing Safe and Affordable Housing

Recognizing the importance of secure housing, Metalbox Remarketing has embarked on a journey to purchase investment properties in the town.

Our first property is now home to a Ukrainian mother and her two children, offering them safety and stability while their husband and father defend their country. We're actively working to acquire more properties, with the goal of providing quality, affordable housing for those in need.

Backing Local Initiatives and Organizations

Our commitment to the community extends to supporting the local Lions Club and their commendable work. Additionally, we've contributed to the restoration of a community bus service, which offers essential transportation to elderly and infirm residents.

By financing a new engine for the bus, we've helped keep this vital service running for those who rely on it.

Keeping it Local

At Metalbox Remarketing, we believe in the power of local businesses to make a tangible impact on the communities they serve. Our team is comprised of individuals who live in or within 5 miles of the town, and we're dedicated to making a positive contribution to the place we call home.

In conclusion, Metalbox Remarketing is more than just a vehicle remarketing company. We're a business that's passionate about driving positive change in our local community and supporting causes that touch our hearts. Through our various initiatives and partnerships, we strive to make a difference — one vehicle sale, one donation, and one investment property at a time.

Why Do Business With Metalbox Remarketing

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 07:14:14 GMT

Growth through reputation

Chris Lamb's Journey

With a career in the car trade that began in the early 1990s, Chris has worked in various roles, including fleet sales and end-of-rental fleet vehicle sales. In 2006, he joined Avis Budget Group as Remarketing Manager, where he stayed until 2020.

Encouraged by customers and suppliers after opting for voluntary redundancy, Chris decided to start Metalbox Remarketing, supported by various businesses who believed in his vision.

Target Customers & Differentiators

Metalbox Remarketing serves as trade-to-trade wholesalers, sourcing cars for anyone in the motor trade. They buy the cars on behalf of their clients and sell them to their buyer network, with trust being a crucial component in these transactions. Metalbox targets anyone in the motor trade, from the largest dealer groups to individual dealers.

What sets Metalbox apart from other vehicle remarketing companies is their unique approach: they buy everything they sell, taking the risk on all purchases. This distinguishes them from brokers or auction-type companies.

Sourcing Stock and Customer Experience

Metalbox sources its stock from trusted auctions, selected leasing companies, and dealer overage stock. They also source new vehicles for major rental and leasing companies.

The buying process for trade customers is simple, with an online sign-up and access to automated and targeted stock lists. Metalbox provides fully imaged condition reports and basic mechanical checks for all vehicles.

Protecting Reputation and Resolving Issues

Metalbox is dedicated to maintaining its reputation and will work with suppliers to resolve any issues if a car arrives with unreported cosmetic damage. They cannot guarantee mechanicals but are careful not to select cars with obvious faults or warning lights.

Availability and Support

Metalbox Remarketing is available to customers all over the UK, including Great Britain and selected buyers in Northern Ireland.

A substantial team works behind the scenes, with Alphagrafikon Ltd handling web design, database management and social media marketing.

Keeping Up with Demand and Future Vision

Managing the demand for used cars has been challenging, but Metalbox's dedicated team constantly searches for vehicles, saving time for group buyers and sales managers. As for the future, Chris takes each year as it comes and hopes to see continued gradual growth.

He envisions possibly spending more time in Spain, with the support of his right-hand man, Ops Director Jim Towey and the dedicated staff that surrounds them.

In conclusion

Metalbox Remarketing's growth through reputation, unique approach, and dedication to customer satisfaction make them a top choice for anyone in the motor trade. By choosing Metalbox, you can trust that your vehicle needs will be handled with professionalism and care.

We Were Featured In AutoScene Magazine

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 18:06:58 GMT

Metalbox remarketing growth through reputation

Autoscene caught up with Chris Lamb for a question and answer session on his motor trade vehicle stock business Metalbox Remarketing

Chris tell us about your background and what made you decide to start MetalBox Remarketing?

I have been in the car trade since the early 1990’s I started off selling Maestro & Montego for a Rover dealer, a baptism of fire some may say.

I moved gradually into Fleet sales then worked for a Europcar franchise in the North west selling end of rental fleet Vehicles. In 2006 I had the opportunity to join Avis Budget Group as Remarketing Manager, Staying with Avis until March 2020.

Covid hit I opted for voluntary redundancy.I had no idea what to do, a very good number of my customers and suppliers encouraged me to go it alone. I had huge support in the early days and still value the faith that various businesses had in me from the early days.

Tell us about Metal Box Remarketing and who your target customers are?

Metalbox are trade to trade wholesalers, we source cars for anyone in the motor trade, we agree prices then physically buy the cars on their behalf and sell them to our buyer network. We very rarely see a car so a lot of this work is based on trust between metalbox, our suppliers and our buyers.

Our target buyers are anyone in the motor trade car & commercial dealers. We currently supply some of the largest dealer groups in the country down to individual dealers looking for the odd sold order (and everything in between)

What differentiates you from other vehicle remarketing companies?

Most remarketing companies are either brokers or a hybrid of broker / Auction type companies, we have no issue how anyone does business and deal with a lot of these companies.

We think we are unique in the market as we buy everything we sell, essentially taking the risk on all the purchases.

Where do you source your stock from?

We source from a handful of trusted auctions and selected leasing companies. We also sell dealer overage stock for a large dealer group. We also source new vehicles for major rental and leasing companies.

What is the buying process for trade customers? How long does it take to sign up and can they do it all online?

Our process is pretty easy, we have an online sign up on the website which will then give access to automated & targeted stock lists, dependent on their individual requirements.

We also have three internal account managers who will contact them on a regular basis to ensure they have everything they need.

What is the buying process for trade customers? How long does it take to sign up and can they do it all online?

We always supply a fully imaged condition report along with a basic mechanical check.

What happens if the dealership is unhappy with the mechanical or bodywork condition of the vehicle?

We cannot guarantee mechanicals on a vehicle but we are careful not to select cars with any obvious faults or warning lights.

If a car arrives with cosmetic damage not reported (other than minor smart repairs) we will work with the supplier for a resolution.

The buck stops with us and we are fiercely protective of our reputation and will never walk away from a genuine claim for damage

Is Metal Box Remarketing available to customers all over the UK?

We supply to the whole of Great Britain and selected buyers in Northern Ireland

To organise all this data for dealers is a significant undertaking, is there a substantial team working behind the scenes?

We have a fantastic team at Alphagrafikon Ltd who organise all our web design, manage our database and plan our automated stock lists and social media marketing.

How have you managed to keep up with demand for used cars?

This has been a struggle at times, as it has been for everyone. We feel our advantage are the guys in our team, who are dedicated to searching for vehicles all day and every day. This is a major plus for group buyers and sales managers, saving them a huge amount of time. The used car market has been extremely volatile post covid with inflated prices and low stock levels

Do you believe that we will see a return to “normal” in the near future?

We are already seeing some return to ‘seasonality’ prices and demand is currently high. I expect a gradual slow down around Easter and through Summer.

Then another peak at the end of Summer and through Autumn. We are very lucky that when the used car market has its natural drops we can utilise the time to supply leasing and rental partners with new & nearlynew stock.

What are your ambitions for Metal Box Remarketing and where do you see the business in 5 and 10 years time?

We take each year as it comes, if you told me 3 years ago I would be running a business selling the best part of £15million of vehicles a year and employing nine staff, I would have run to the hills.

We have gradual growth year on year with three offices in the same building and with more planned later this year.

5-10 years?

Hopefully in my place in Spain taking in the sun, it goes without saying I couldn’t juggle everything I do without my right-hand man and Ops Director Jim Towey and the great core of staff we have around us.

Original interview here at AutoScene

10 of the best concept cars of all time

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 08:01:56 GMT

Concept cars point to a manufacturer’s vision of the future; sometimes a different future to the one imagined may transpire, but they remain fascinating artefacts nonetheless

Concept cars are often the unattainable supermodels of the motoring world. Manufacturers create them to gauge interest in a new technology or design idea, and they often featuring outlandish styling.

While some are near production-ready models, others are hastily cobbled together bits of fibreglass and plastic held together with tape and prayer. The best ones are usually somewhere between these extremes, offering a glimpse into a potential future with enough functioning tech to give us hope that they may actually go into production.

Our list of the best concept cars of all time features an eclectic mix of vehicles, all have left an indelible mark on the motor industry. Some for the advanced technology they pioneered, others for outrageous and daring designs that shaped the cars we see on the roads today.

Our pick of the best prototype cars ever made are:

Audi Le Mans Concept (2003)
BMW Nazca C2 (1991)
Buick Y-Job (1938)
Cadillac Sixteen (2003)
Ferrari Mythos (1989)
Ford Nucleon (1957)
Jaguar C-X75 (2010)
Lamborghini Terzo Millennio (2017)
Mercedes Vision CLS (2003)
Renault Espace F1 (1995)

Audi Le Mans Concept (2003)

Audi’s dominance of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the early 2000s prompted them to create a sporty concept car to celebrate this fact – and to gauge customer interest in a mid-engined sports car. The Audi Le Mans Quattro concept featured a 5.0-litre V10 engine and two turbos, delivering 602hp to all four wheels it looked like nothing else Audi had produced up until that point.

Needless to say, the public loved it, and in 2007 the Audi R8 was born. The road-going version was hardly changed from the concept, although it featured a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8, with a V10 arriving a few years later. Now on its second generation, the Audi R8 produces up to 612hp from its non-turbocharged 5.2-litre V10 engine and offers supercar performance for sports car money.

BMW Nazca M12 (1991)

The BMW Nazca M12 is what happens when German engineering meets Italian design. The Nazca M12 was designed by Fabrizio Giugiaro (then just 26) of Italdesign and its stunning lines were inspired by Group C and Formula 1 race cars.

It featured a carbon fibre body, gullwing side windows and a glass roof. BMW’s 295hp 5.0-litre V12 engine was mounted in the middle. The Nazca C2 and C2 Spider prototypes arrived the following year, offering more power and performance. Unfortunately, this concept never made the leap to series production.

Buick Y-Job (1938)

The granddaddy of concept cars, the Buick Y-Job was arguably the first car built just to showcase future technology and styling ideas. GM designer Harley Earl introduced radical concepts like aerodynamic bodywork, concealed headlights and electric windows.

The Y-Job was fully operational, and Earl used it as his personal transport for years. It ushered in the age of the concept car, and many of its features and ideas were incorporated into future GM models.

Cadillac Sixteen (2003)

Cadillac may be all about luxurious SUVs these days, but it has a rich history creating opulent and decadent saloon cars , especially from the ‘30s to the early 1970s. The Cadillac Sixteen was a futuristic concept car drawing inspiration from the lavish Cadillac V-16 of the 1930s.

The simply gigantic 1,000hp 13.6-litre 16-cylinder engine under its bonnet never made it into any road-going cars, but many of the Cadillac Sixteen’s design ideas did.

Ferrari Mythos (1989)

The Mythos was a design study by styling house Pininfarina, built to evoke memories of classic Ferraris from the 1960s, but with a futuristic touch.

It borrowed the oily bits from the Ferrari Testarossa, which meant that a 390hp 4.9-litre flat-12 was tucked away behind the driver. This also meant that it was fully driveable, its lightweight construction must have made it rather quick, too. The original prototype was sold to a Japanese collector, and the Sultan of Brunei commissioned two further cars to add to his burgeoning collection.

Ford Nucleon (1957)

If you wanted a vision of the future in 1957, the Ford Nucleon wasn’t it. But you can’t blame Ford for toying with the idea of a car being powered by an uranium-fuelled nuclear reactor: this was, after all, an age of tremendous scientific discovery, and it saw car makers including Ford, Studebaker Packard and Simcal toy with the idea of nuclear cars.

Chrysler reckoned that aside from the safety implications, a nuclear power station capable of driving a car would weigh 36 tonnes, so that firm took a different route, designing the jet powered Turbine car – of which 55 were actually built, with 50 being lent to the public.

Jaguar C-X75 (2010)

The Jaguar C-X75 was to be a high-tech sports car heralding the introduction of a hybrid-electric powerplant which would deliver shattering performance and impressive fuel economy. The concept car had four electric motors at each wheel, with two diesel-powered gas turbines charging the battery pack. Power output was a claimed 778hp.

Despite plans to build a limited number of road-legal C-X75’s (albeit with a less ambitious petrol-hybrid layout), just five development cars were built to these simpler specifications. While this mid-engined concept never made it to Jaguar showrooms, it influenced the design of models like the F-Type and I-Pace.

Lamborghini Terzo Millennio (2017)

The Terzo Millenio (meaning third millennium in Italian) concept was a joint collaboration between Lamborghini and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It incorporated some advanced concepts like nanomaterial technology that could use the vehicle’s body panels as electrical storage devices and supercapacitors instead of batteries to power the four electric motors.

Now this is more a pure futuristic concept than a functioning car, but some of these ideas are in development. Supercapacitor tech has actually been used in the very limited run Lamborghini Sian, and future Lambos will surely benefit from the aerodynamics and electric architecture showcased in the Terzo Millenio.

Mercedes Vision CLS (2003)

Some concept cars are more a statement of intent than a whimsical look into the far future, the Mercedes Vision CLS was one such car. Fitted with the marque’s existing diesel engine and automatic gearbox, the Vision CLS had a sloped rear roofline that gave it a coupe-like silhouette.

This swoopy look turned what would otherwise be a traditional looking E-Class saloon into an altogether sportier vehicle, and that is how the CLS was born. Not only was the CLS a great success, but it ushered in a new age of coupe-profiled luxury fastback saloons like the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe and Audi A7.

Renault Espace F1 (1995)

Sometimes a concept car is nothing more than a crazy marketing exercise. The Renault Espace F1 is a case in point. With the family-friendly Espace MPV having celebrated its first decade of production in 1994, Renault thought it appropriate to mark the occasion by installing its 1993 3.5-litre V10 Formula 1 engine into one. Top speed was increased from around 100mph to a slightly swifter 193mph.

Clearly, some minor changes needed to be made, so the Espace got a completely new carbon fibre bodyshell and a thoroughly reengineered interior as the engine was now mounted where the kids usually sat. With around 800hp on tap, school runs required the use of racing seats with six-point harnesses, and helmets. Sadly, Renault never did produce a road-legal version.

Blog Credit

New BMW M2 set for Spring arrival

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:04:30 GMT

The second-generation BMW M2 coupé is set to arrive in the UK in May next year, and it packs more performance punch than its predecessor

The second-generation BMW M2 coupé is now available to order in the UK, with the first orders expected to be delivered in May next year.

A performance-focused variant of the latest iteration of the BMW 2 Series Coupé , the new M2 distinguishes itself from standard models thanks to its protruding wheel arches, more muscular front and rear bumpers, larger kidney grilles and air intakes, and a quad-pipe exhaust system.

Compared to the outgoing model, the M2 has grown in size as it moves into its second generation. The coupé is now 11cm longer and a centimeter wider than before, and is also a centimeter lower to the ground.

BMW’s M division has looked to reduce the car’s weight by fitting a lightweight roof made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic, and the coupé can also be specced with lighter carbon fibre bucket seats for an extra fee. The M2 is equipped with 19-inch alloys in the front and 20-inch alloys in the rear, all alloys finished in black as standard to match the colour scheme of roof, lower front bumper and rear diffuser. Five bodywork colours will be available from launch.

The new BMW M2 is powered by a re-tuned version of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine used in the larger four-door M3 . While this re-tuned powertrain doesn’t make this new coupé quite as powerful as the M3, it does increase the M2’s output by 90hp when compared to its predecessor – 460hp in total.

BMW says that its new M2 can complete a 0-62mph sprint time in 4.1 seconds, and that its top speed is capped at 155mph. Opting for the optional ‘M Race Track Package’ increases the car’s top speed to 177mph. The standard model makes use of an eight-speed automatic gearbox, but customers can also select a six-speed manual transmission which makes the coupé slightly slower to accelerate in a straight line.

Inside, the car’s dashboard features a curved display that combines a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15-inch infotainment display which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and comes with the brand’s cloud-based navigation and voice assistant software as standard. A head-up display is also included as standard, while a wireless phone charging pad is available as an optional extra.

Below the infotainment screen sits the drive selector and ‘M Mode’ button. This feature allows the driver to put the coupé into ‘Sport’ mode, which scales back the car’s driver assistance systems, or ‘Track’ mode, which fully deactivates these assistance systems. To aid on-track fun, the M2 also comes with a lap timer and ‘drift analyser’ feature.

Prices for the new BMW M2 start at just under £64k. Manual models are slightly more expensive, and the ‘M Race Track Package’ adds a further £6k to the price tag. The coupé is available to order now on BMW’s website, and the brand expects second-generation M2 deliveries to arrive in the UK in May 2023.

Blog Credit

Ultra limited edition Alpine A110 R Fernando Alonso

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 11:12:21 GMT

Ooooh Shiny....

In the same week that the most extreme version of the A110 R road car was revealed, Alpine has announced a new special edition created with F1 legend Fernando Alonso.

Only 32 examples of the exclusive performance model will be made, matching the two-time champ’s number of Grand Prix wins.

The ‘Alpine A110 R Fernando Alonso’ features a range of aesthetic and suspension tweaks and is only available in Racing Matte Blue – the same finish as Alonso’s current Alpine A522 race car.

The new paintjob extends to the previously bare carbon fibre areas of the A110 R. There are more black highlights around the car, as well as orange brake calipers, plus a blue, orange and yellow flag on the door panels, plus Fernando Alonso’s signature embroidered into the seats.

The Alonso edition features a unique adjustment system to easily and quickly change the height of the car’s body, as well as the stiffness of the suspension.

In just a few quick and easy steps, a shim placed at the base of the spring means the spring’s position can be changed and the vehicle lowered by 10mm for track-only use.

At the same time, the stiffness of the suspension is increased by +5%. An Alpine-patented innovation, it will give enthusiasts ready access to track settings approved by Fernando Alonso himself on Barcelona’s F1 circuit.

There’s an engraved plaque located on the centre console bearing the name of both the circuit and year of an Alonso winning race. Numbered from 1 to 32, in chronological order, the tribute plaques add an extra layer of exclusivity that is sure to delight enthusiasts.

Lucky buyers of the limited series model will be given a Fernando Alonso replica racing helmet, signed by the Spaniard himself.

Blog Credit

Land Rover Discovery D300 Metropolitan Edition first drive

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:53:07 GMT

When’s a Land Rover not a Land Rover? When it’s a Range Rover . And what separates Range from Land? That has become hard to know. The brand’s line-up overlaps more than Trent Alexander-Arnold, although it is far better at defending.

In fact, the rebirth of the Defender as a premium SUV has left many wondering what the Discovery , once a happy halfway house between luxury Rangie and muddy Defender, is now for.

The introduction of the Metropolitan Edition probably won’t help that, either, as it tops the range at a Range price of £74,070 (for the P360, a 355bhp straight-six petrol) or £75,475 (for the D300, a 296bhp straight-six diesel, tested here).

That doesn’t mean it isn’t a very appealing specification to the sorts who like to Disco, mind you. No flared trousers, here, but there is a medallion hidden in the B-pillar, along with, uniquely, Bright Atlas grille detailing, Hakuba Silver lower-bumper inserts, gloss-grey diamond-cut 22in alloy wheels and black brake calipers; and inside, a sliding glass roof, a head-up display, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, a cooled compartment, quad-zone climate control and rather attractive Titanium Mesh trim. That last item complements the standard Windsor Leather upholstery, in our car’s case coloured in a combination of Light Oyster and Ebony, which nicely breaks up the vast expanses as compared with the Ebony and Caraway options.

Vast expanses they are indeed, because this is a truly enormous car with a commensurately enormous interior. You sit a long way from your front passenger in your infinitely adjustable and very comfortable seat, while another two adults could very happily sit behind you and two children behind them again.

Also worth noting inside is the Pivi Pro infotainment system, with its big curved touchscreen. It looks very slick indeed, not falling into the trap of being overbearing or dissonant, instead blending into the rest of the interior architecture. And to use, it’s simple enough once you’ve got used to it, and not once in our week-long test did it get its knickers in a twist.

After a significant round of chassis updates in 2021, the Discovery continues to drive very impressively on the road for something that will go much, much farther off road than the comparable Audi Q7 or BMW X5 .

Those may feel sportier to drive, but the big Landie still steers very neatly on country lanes (which it really needs to, considering its unnerving girth), while its motorway behaviour is that of a proper cruiser, dealing with long-wave compressions in a relaxed manner and generally adeptly glossing over small imperfections.

The D300 is probably the more sensible choice, astonishingly refined for a diesel and serving up great waves of torque at very low revs for effortless overtaking – something that will also make life easier if ever you need to crawl over rocks. The only disappointment is its economy: 30mpg in our test. Yes, this is a big, bluff, bulky thing, but it’s also a mild-hybrid diesel.

Much like the Range Rover Velar , it gives the impression almost of a yacht in the way it drives, softly bobbing along but, when you open up the throttle, leaning back and absolutely surging forth. Considering what it is, it really can move in a hurry.

The Metropolitan Edition doesn’t bring any kit that anyone strictly needs, but if you need seven seats and prefer its looks to the Defender’s (have a word…), it will play the Range-alike role even more convincingly than the regular R-Dynamic HSE upon which it builds.

With all that overlap, we wouldn’t be surprised if this is the last ever Discovery. But if it does prove to be so, it will be retiring at the very top of its game, objectively if not contextually.

Blog Credit - AutoCar

Meet the Land Rover Defender 75th Limited Edition

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 08:12:07 GMT

Land Rover is marking the 75th anniversary of its legendary 4×4 with £85,995 limited edition Defender.

Available in either 90 or 110 body styles, it gets a heritage Grasmere Green paint job with 20-inch alloy wheels coloured to match the bodywork.

Other unique features include several “75 Years” graphics across the body and Ceres Silver bumpers. Inside, the dashboard’s cross car beam is also coloured to match the Grasmere Green bodywork.

These additions bump up the price by £24,055 from an HSE-trim Defender (starting price £61,940).

As it’s based on HSE specification, the special-edition Defender gets a lot of standard equipment including 3D surround camera, Land Rover’s Terrain Response system and Matrix LED headlights.

There are also a number of powertrains to choose from, including the P400e plug-in hybrid for 110 models and D300 Ingenium diesel versions.

“Since revealing the new Defender, customers around the globe have fallen in love with it and demand remains extremely strong,” said Land Rover’s Stuart Frith.

“This new Limited Edition captures the spirit of the past 75 years, with its colour and detailing, and fuses it with innovative new technology such as Hybrid Electric power, Configurable Terrain Response, software over the air updates and unrivalled all-terrain capability.”

Blog Credit - Automotiveblog

New Peugeot e-308 EV hatch rivals VW ID 3 with 250-mile range

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 11:58:36 GMT

The new Peugeot e-308 is the French firm’s crucial new entry into the electric family hatch segment

Going up against the Volkswagen ID 3 with the choice of two bodystyles and more than 248 miles of range.

Revealed today in hatchback and estate forms – the latter of which Peugeot says is the first EV estate from a European manufacturer – the e-308 rides on the familiar Stellantis group EMP2 architecture but introduces a new electric powertrain not yet used on any other model in the multi-brand manufacturer’s portfolio.

A front-mounted motor endows the hatchback with 156bhp, 22bhp more than the technically similar Peugeot e-208 supermini and e-2008 crossover, and 192lb ft. The firm hasn’t yet revealed performance details, but a 0-62mph time of around 8.0sec is expected.

Power is supplied by a 51kWh (usable) battery, which is only slightly larger than that used by smaller Stellantis EVs, but which uses a new chemical composition comprising 80% nickel, 10% manganese and 10% cobalt for improved efficiency. It can be charged at up to 100kW - giving a 20-80% top-up time of less than 25 minutes.

Together with low-friction tyres, aero-focused wheel designs and a subtle aero-themed, EV-specific makeover, this means the e-308 runs at a claimed 12.7kWh per 62 miles, which Peugeot calls "a benchmark among 100% electric vehicles in the C-segment".

Due on sale next year, the e-308 joins pure-combustion petrol and diesel options and a pair of plug-in hybrids in the 308 line-up - with which it shares the bulk of its exterior design cues and its i-Cockpit interior layout. Prices have not yet been confirmed, but expect the EV to start at around £35,000.

Blog Credit - AutoCar

BMW starts hydrogen fuel cell production for BMW iX5

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 09:39:28 GMT

Fuel cells for the powertrain will be supplied by Toyota and constructed in-house by BMW

BMW has started production of hydrogen fuel cell systems for its next-generation BMW iX5 Hydrogen model, with the first vehicles set to hit the road for testing later this year.

Built at BMW ’s competence centre for hydrogen in Munich, the FCEV powertrain consist of a fuel cell, two hydrogen tanks and a fifth-generation BMW eDrive electric motor.

It’s all used in tandem with a high-performance battery, in the architecture for the existing BMW X5 . The German car maker will use individual fuel cells supplied by Toyota , with which BMW has collaborated on hydrogen powertrains since 2013.

BMW will then fit other components, including wiring harnesses, compressors, and anodes and cathodes.

Oliver Zipse, BMW chairman, said: “As a versatile energy source, hydrogen has a key role to play on the road to climate neutrality. And it will also gain substantially in importance as far as personal mobility is concerned.

“We think hydrogen-powered vehicles are ideally placed technologically to fit alongside battery-electric vehicles and complete the electric mobility picture… By commencing small-scale production of fuel cells today, we are demonstrating the technical maturity of this type of drive system and underscoring its potential for the future.”

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen produces a total of 368bhp. Around 167bhp comes from the bespoke hydrogen fuel cell system. BMW says its hydrogen powertrain will offer a “unique form of drive system for the premium segment.”

The BMW iX5 Hydrogen was tested earlier this year in winter conditions in Sweden and makes use of several new technologies, including a high-speed, turbine-powered compressor and a high-voltage coolant pump.

BMW says it has vastly improved the efficiency of the fuel cell system following years of research and development.

Frank Weber, BMW board member, said: “We have managed to more than double the fuel cell’s continuous output in the second-generation fuel cell in the BMW iX5 Hydrogen, while weight and size have both decreased drastically.”

Just 100 BMW iX5 Hydrogen cars will be produced initially . They won’t be sold but they will be used by drivers who will test them in everyday conditions in the US, Japan, Europe, China and South Korea.

Blog Credit - Autocar

Mazda CX-60 review

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 08:20:48 GMT

A road test the plug-in hybrid version of the classy new Mazda CX-60 mid-sized SUV…

Slotting in above the slightly smaller CX-5, the all-new CX-60 is Mazda’s new flagship SUV.

Not only does it close the gap on premium rivals from Europe, such as Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Range Rover and Volvo, but it’s available as Mazda’s first ever plug-in hybrid.

The Japanese company still hasn’t given up on the internal combustion engine and the PHEV version is a natural progression.

What’s more, plug-in hybrids look like they will get a stay of execution for five years after the sales of new petrol and diesel cars are banned in 2030, so there’s life in the technology yet.

The CX-60 PHEV combines a normally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 100kW electric motor and a 17.8kWh battery.

The result is a total output of 323bhp and 369lb ft of torque, making it the most powerful road car Mazda has ever produced, capable of sprinting from standstill to 62mph in just 5.8 seconds.

What’s more, on paper, fuel economy could be as high as 188mpg with CO2 emissions as low as 33g/km.

Offering up to 39 miles of pure electric driving from a full charge, your visits to a petrol station could be few and far between if you have a modest daily commute. And if you’re a business user, considerable tax advantages come with that meagre CO2 figure.

Further down the line, Mazda will also be offering the CX-60 with 3.3-litre diesel and 3.0-litre petrol engines – both six-cylinders paired with a 48V mild hybrid system.

Priced from £43,950, there’s a choice of three plush trim levels – Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi.

You can also choose from two option packs across all grades (Convenience Pack and Driver Assistance Pack), while a Comfort Pack is available on Exclusive-Line.

Highlights of the £1,000 Convenience Pack include privacy glass, a 360 view monitor and wireless phone charging, while the Driver Assistance Pack adds extra active safety technology for £1,100.

The £1,400 Comfort Pack includes goodies such as 20-inch alloy wheels, electric front seats, front seat ventilation and heated rear seats.

Not only is the CX-60 PHEV well equipped, it’s superbly put together and the quality of the materials used inside the cabin is excellent.

Externally, the CX-60 is very similar to the CX-5, but can be distinguished by its bold nose, which polarises opinion. Let’s just say that it’s not the most attractive Mazda head-on.

And at just 190mm longer, 50mm wider and about the same height, there’s not much between them in size, though the CX-60’s more athletic stance hides its height a little better.

There’s nothing revolutionary inside the cabin. It’s still very much a Mazda, which is no bad thing.

There’s a large centrally-located 12.3-inch infotainment screen on top of the dashboard, while Mazda’s sticking with its rotary controller near the gear selector. It’s not a touchscreen, and much of the car’s functionality is accessed by a twist and click.

If you’re not used to a touchscreen, it works well from the off, and even if you are, it becomes second nature after a few hours.

Thankfully, Mazda has kept some buttons and dials, so the climate control can be accessed separately and there’s still an audio volume knob. Additionally, there’s extra functionality, such as cruise control via the steering wheel, while the clear head-up display is one of the best.

The cabin itself is spacious, though little different to the CX-5 in the back, so while adults can sit comfortably in the rear, there’s not class-leading legroom.

The CX-60’s substantial 570-litre boot is about 50 litres bigger than the CX-5’s, expanding to 1,726 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The driving position is great, with plenty of adjustment available (unusually for an SUV, it is possible to sit lower if you prefer). Whichever you choose, there’s a commanding view of the road.

If you’ve had your CX-60 on charge (it takes 2hr 20 min via a 7kW home charger), or you have some charge left, it will start off in EV mode.

Unlike some PHEVs, there is a vague whine from the off, but it’s smooth going and, in theory, if you take it easy the petrol engine won’t kick in until you hit 62mph.

The transition from EV to petrol and vice versa is seamless if you’re not in a hurry. However, if you’re heavy with your right foot there’s a little hesitation and the petrol engine becomes more vocal.

There are four drive modes accessed by a selector (Mi-Drive) near the rotary controller – Normal, Sport, Off-Road and EV.

Frankly, Normal is just fine. The driver’s display turns an angry red if you select Sport and the engine can get a little harsh, but it does firm up the throttle response and handling.

Obviously EV will keep you driving in electric mode until the battery runs out, while Off-Road will help you along if the going gets tough.

Mazda isn’t pretending it’s a hardcore 4×4, but the extra traction and raised ride height should help you out on those rare extreme weather occasions.

The petrol engine is mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, and for the most part it works perfectly well. However, it can be hesitant on kickdown and hold onto a gear for a little longer on hills. Should that happen, it is possible to manually hurry things along via the steering wheel paddle shifters.

Initially, the CX-60 feels big and heavy, but thanks to that excellent driving position and Mazda’s “Kinetic Posture Control” technology, you soon settle in, and it feels surprisingly agile and controlled in more challenging corners.

There’s plenty of grip and traction, while the steering is light and precise. As with most hybrids, the brakes aren’t the most progressive, but they are effective, and you soon get used to them.

The ride is on the firm side, and even though there’s plenty of power on tap, it is at its most relaxed and refined best cruising along.

As with any PHEV, fuel economy will depend on whether you keep the battery charged up, journey length, speed and driving style. So, while 100mpg is quite possible on shorter runs where the petrol engine is hardly used, your MPG can dip into the 30s on longer trips when the battery charge is used up and the 2.5-litre petrol engine does the heavy lifting.

It’s also worth noting that the CX-60 is one of the few PHEVs able to pull a caravan or trailer with a decent towing capacity of 2,500kg.

The CX-60 is a welcome addition to the plug-in hybrid club that includes some formidable opposition in the shape of the Toyota RAV4, Volvo XC60, Lexus NX, Audi Q5 and BMW X3.

Verdict: The boldly styled new Mazda CX-60 is a class act. Practical, powerful, engaging to drive, generously equipped and well put together with quality materials, it’s very much a premium SUV.

Blog Credit - Automotive Blog

Bid for Bond: No Time To Die cars for sale

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:42:48 GMT

If you’re a fan of Land Rover, Jaguar and James Bond, and you have some serious money to spare, then an upcoming auction could be right up your street.

Two Land Rover Defenders, a Range Rover Sport SVR and Jaguar XF stunt cars, which all featured in the 2021 hit Bond movie, all feature in a 007 charity auction held by Christie’s and EON Productions in London on 28 September – by invitation only.

Led by a Defender 110, which starred in the all-terrain stunt scenes, the sale will benefit the British Red Cross. Featuring the unique VIN (vehicle identification number) 007, it was one of 10 Defenders used during filming and promotional activity ahead of the film’s release.

A Defender 110 V8 Bond Edition, created by SV Bespoke and inspired by the specification of the Defenders in No Time To Die, also goes under the hammer (estimate: £200,000-£300,000).

Just 300 Bond Editions were available worldwide and this version has a unique ‘60 Years of Bond’ logo etched on the instrument panel end cap. This vehicle is UK specification, is fully road legal and will be sold to benefit conservation charity Tusk.

The Range Rover Sport SVR stunt car (estimate: £80,000-£120,000) also starred in a high-speed all-terrain No Time To Die chase and was one of six supplied for filming.

Chosen by the No Time To Die stunt team as a perfect chase car, a Jaguar XF (estimate: £50,000 – £70,000) is one of two that appeared in the film’s pre-credit sequence. They pursued James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) through the narrow, twisting streets of Matera in southern Italy.

Blog Credit - Automotive Blog

Is it difficult to charge an electric car and are charging points easily accessible?

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 06:58:18 GMT

Range anxiety is among the biggest obstacles faced by the modern electric car.

If motorists weren’t worried about becoming stranded in the middle of nowhere, miles from the nearest charging point, then it’s entirely plausible that the internal combustion engine might already be a thing of the past.

Are you considering investing in a new electric car, but you’re worried that you won’t be able to find a place to charge it? Let’s take a look at some of the technicalities, and see if we can address those concerns.

Where to charge?

If you’re going to charge the lithium-ion battery attached to the bottom of your electric vehicle, then you’ll need a suitable charging station. By and large, these come in four different forms. There are home charging stations, ones you might use at work, public chargers, and ones at a service station.

What really matters is the charging speed on offer . If your car is going to be parked in the same spot for eight hours, or even longer, then you can get away with a slower ‘trickle’ charge. This tends to be what’s favoured in public parking spots and home charging stations.

Speeds

The most common variety of charging stations will provide a throughput of around 7kW. This will allow the majority of electric cars to charge from empty to full over the course of a working day. In practice, it’s rare that a battery should be allowed to fully discharge. So, you’re instead driving for half an hour and then charging for eight, such that the battery is kept constantly topped up.

This not only provides you with some wriggle-room. It’ll also help to maximise the lifespan of the
battery itself.

Rapid charging

A rapid charging station is useful on long-distance drives. They’re rarer and more expensive, but they’ll allow you to plan multiple legs, and extend the effective range of your electric vehicle. You’ll tend to find these at motorway service stations. Do your research in advance, and plan your route according to the charging facilities. Bear in mind that there’s always the possibility that you’ll get there and find the charger out of service. So, make sure that you have a contingency plan, and that you don’t drive past charging stations. A short break from motorway driving will allow you to refresh your mental batteries, too. Cars like the Vauxhall Corsa-E can rapid charge in just 30 minutes, enabling you to continue your journey as quickly as possible.

Public locations

Supermarkets, shopping centres, and other public places will often have space or two for hybrid and electric vehicles. You can use the pod point map to easily locate charging stations of this type. In many cases, you can save a considerable amount – as using the pod point will provide you with an incentive to use the attached business.

Blog Credit - Carblog

Rare concept and coachbuilt cars

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 06:40:54 GMT

A wonderful selection of rare and one-off coachbuilt cars are set to grace the lawns of the London Concours

This takes place next week from June 28th – 30th June. The special class, called Coachbuilt & Concepts will bring together a stunning line-up of classic and collector machinery.

The Coachbuilt & Concepts class is focused on the unique projects – either by design or by circumstance – that continue to captivate the automotive world decades after they first appeared.
which takes place next week from June 28th – 30th June. The special class, called Coachbuilt & Concepts will bring together a stunning line-up of classic and collector machinery.

The Coachbuilt & Concepts class is focused on the unique projects – either by design or by circumstance – that continue to captivate the automotive world decades after they first appeared.

The words Rolls-Royce and ‘pick-up’ rarely go together, but when one particular classic motorsport enthusiast was looking for the ultimate Goodwood Revival towing car, there was only one solution. Clark & Carter in Essex were tasked with transforming a 1967 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow into an elegant pick-up. In fact, the example they were given had already been shoddily converted but to attain the quality they wanted, they practically had to start again. The result is befitting of the original car’s intentions, with hand-crafted detail applied throughout and fun flourishes like the ‘pick-up’ badging, created in a script mimicking the original Silver Shadow.

The Mercedes F200 Imagination was a concept study unveiled by Daimler Benz at the 1996 Paris Motor Show. Only two were built, and the example that will appear at the London Concours in all its sleek, futuristic glory is the only driving and working example. The German manufacturer’s aim was to showcase its latest innovations in control, design and comfort – many of which were to debut on the S-Class and CL-Class models eventually launched in 1999.

Blog Credit Take To The Road

Volvo Debuts The Way Too Powerful Polestar 5 At Goodwood

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 17:44:35 GMT

The 2022 Goodwood moving motor show is where Volvo decided to pitch the Polestar 5

A ridiculously powerful pure electric Volvo super sedan. But here’s the thing, by focusing on performance, has Volvo neglected the Elephant in the room? The Elephant in this case is… range. That is to say, how many miles does the Volvo Polestar 5 do before requiring recharge? Even Sherlock Holmes would be flummoxed with the prospect of trying to solve such an uncompromising mystery.

So here’s what we do know. The Volvo Polestar 5 is a prototype development mule, a 4-door high-performance GT. Think Audi eTron GT or Porsche Taycan . Details of the Volvo Polestar 5’s powertrains was revealed as it raced up the hill at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The vehicle is built on an 800-volt electric architecture which houses a dual electric motor capable of delivering 870bhp (650 kilowatts/884PS) and 900 NM of torque. Apparently, Volvo has designed a brand new electric motor, they claim it’s superior to all others in every way.

Volvo doesn’t do boasting, they quietly get on with the job. For the company to chest-beat and brag about the Polestar 5’s performance is very revealing indeed. What Volvo failed to reveal is how much range the Polestar 5 will achieve on a single charge. Which is very revealing indeed.

We do know the Volvo Polestar 5 will have a 103 kWh battery pack, 3 more than the Tesla Model S. The Model S is the benchmark, it does superior performance and efficiency better than any other electric car currently on the market.

So why has Volvo not revealed the Polestar 5’s range? The demonstration run at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed is a publicity stunt, a way to generate interest and get the conversation flowing. Any performance car, by defintion uses more energy be it gasoline or electric.

If the Polestar 5 had briliant range converging with superior performance Volvo would be the first to let everyone about it, they would ring church bells in perfect synchronization up and down the land. They have not for a reason.

Blog Credit - Daily Car Blog

New Militem FEROX500, Too Extreme Even For The Azov Battalion

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 08:05:52 GMT

This is the Militem Ferox500 , a modified Jeep Wrangler designed to look as though it is ready for war.

It looks so extreme that even the infamous Azov Battalion fears it. If you don’t know who or what the Azov Battalion is, let me inform you. The Azov Battalion is a neo-Nazi military brigade that is openly and officially embedded in the Ukrainian army. For over eight years the Azov Battalion has bombed and killed thousands of its citizens in the Eastern part of Ukraine, known as the Donbas region.

And we in the West are supporting the Azov Battalion disguised as a campaign of sympathy. MSM outlets such as BBC News initially on purpose failed to identify the Azov Brigade, until recently. The Azov Battalion was easily identified by their neo-swastika badging. However, they recently rebranded and removed all identifying neo-nazi identifiers in an attempt to merge into the background unnoticed.

In many ways, the Militem Ferox500 is a re-branding exercise. It started life as a Jeep Rubicon 392 and Militem , an Italian coachbuilder, modified the hell out of it to create the FEROX500. The upgrades pertain to the exterior and interior.

The Militem FEROX500 features a custom wideboy upgrade and rides on 22×9.5-inch forged wheels encased in 325/50 tyres. Additional upgrades include retractable running boards, LED strip lights mounted in the front bumper, and parking sensors.

The interior features upgraded seats trimmed in a two-tone Red and Black Nappa leather and Alcantara, as is the dashboard and door panels. Militem also fitted a new steering wheel and carbon fiber replaces much of the Jeep’s original interior trim.

The V8 engine is lightly upgraded with a larger air intake which meant Militem had to make a custom front hood and grille. The end result is one mean looking muther-f*cker. It looks so mean that even the infamous neo-Nazi Azov Batallion couldn’t look it in the eye.

Militem FEROX500 start at $149,000 USD.

Blog Credit here

The New Bentley Flying Spur S, The World’s Most Elegant Saloon

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 06:58:23 GMT

As more and more car buyers switch to purchasing SUVs let us not forget the age of the saloon.

There are saloons and then there are saloons and the Bentley Flying Spur is the coolest-looking saloon out there. From the elegant exterior to the plush interior the Bentley Flying Spur S is the Latest “B” of the bang from Bentley. Much of the explosive firepower is provided by the V8 powertrain, and it is now offered with a V6 hybrid. The latest Flying Spur S completes Bentley’s newest driving-focused strategy.

The Flying Spur S is offered with a choice of two powertrains, the 4.0-litre V8 engine, developing 550 PS and 770 Nm of torque. The 0-62 mph benchmark takes a mere 4.0 seconds and top speed – where possible and legal – is 198 mph.

The second powertrain for the Flying Spur S Hybrid combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor, delivering a total of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb.ft) of torque, for a 0-62mph time of 4.1s. Capable of up to 26 miles (41 km) in pure electric drive, and with just 75g of CO2 per kilometre (WLTP) the Flying Spur Hybrid S is jointly the most efficient Bentley yet.

It comes as standard with Bentley Dynamic Ride, capable of applying up to 1300 Nm of anti-roll torque in 0.3 seconds to keep the body flat. Electronic All-wheel Steering is also included as standard. The black brightware of the Flying Spur S models creates an athletic and understated look, whatever the chosen exterior finish is complemented by gloss details black lower bumper grilles, dark tinted headlamps and rear lights, black quad tailpipe finishers and distinctive S badging on the front fenders.

The S range is offered with an all-new 22” wheel option, with five Y-shaped spokes in gloss black or alternatively available in a new Pale Brodgar Satin finish.

For the interior of the Flying Spur S, customers can let their imaginations roam with a choice of performance-focused two-tone colour splits, hand crafted in Crewe’s leather shop using a combination of smooth hide and soft-napped Dinamica .

Blog Credit Here

Most Popular Family Battery-Powered SUVs

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 08:57:23 GMT

Families who need a car that can accommodate up to seven passengers but that needs to be able to handle a long commute should be looking at a few SUVs.

They’ll give you everything you need to run your errands and take the kids to school while giving you the space and comfort to spend quality time together.

The family car is the perfect blend of practicality and comfort. However, not all family SUVs are created equal. Some will make your drive to work unbearable, and others are so uncomfortable you’d rather not drive it.

We’ve compiled a list of the best family SUVs on the market that you can buy. Don’t worry if your credit score isn’t perfect, bad credit car finance is a really competitive area with plenty of providers. Read on to learn more about our selected models and find the perfect family SUV for your brood!

2022 Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is the most popular SUV for families. It has a roomy interior and powerful battery pack which make it an excellent car for both long drives and inter-city commutes. The SUV can also go from 0 to 60 in 3 seconds which means it is really fun to drive. Thanks to its panoramic side windows, the Tesla Model Y allows you to drive while your kids are still napping in the back seat.

However, the model doesn’t have a third row of seats, which means you’ll only be able to carry four passengers at a time. Though the Model Y isn’t compatible with all chargers, it comes equipped with Tesla’s Supercharger technology. This feature allows owners to charge up their cars’ batteries in 30 minutes! If you’re still looking for an SUV that will take care of your family needs and give you a comfortable ride on the way home from work whilst still having good environmental credentials, buy the Tesla Model Y.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The ID.4 is a future-proof SUV that offers space and excellent fuel economy. It features a high-performance hybrid system, giving it incredible range, acceleration, speed, and safety. Some models even come with an optional range extender. This means it can travel up to 300 miles on electricity alone! The ID.4 is one of the best family SUVs on the market. It has plenty of space and excellent fuel economy while offering technology upgrades to keep your family safe and entertained on long drives.

Kia Niro EV

The Kia Niro EV is one of the most popular battery-powered family SUVs. This model has features and amenities, such as a touchscreen interface, dual climate control, and heated seats. It also has plenty of space for passengers and luggage inside its cabin, with seating that can accommodate seven people. The Niro EV has a large trunk area as well.

Blog Credit: Carblog

THE QUEEN'S PLATINUM JUBILEE: THE CARS OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 10:04:52 GMT

When it comes to cars, while The Queen is most often pictured chauffeur-driven to Royal engagements, Her Majesty also likes to get behind the wheel. The British Monarch, who celebrates 70 years of service this year, continues to drive herself when out of the public eye.

Her fondness for the motor car is thought to have been firmly rooted during the Second World War, when the Queen was a driver and mechanic in the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service.

To this day, it is believed that the Queen does not hold a driving licence. In a peculiar quirk, she is said to be the only driver in the country who is not required to have one.

More often than not, driving takes place when Her Majesty is at the Royal family’s Windsor residence, or at Balmoral, a 50,000 acre estate near Ballater, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

During Her Majesty’s historic reign, cars have come in all shapes and sizes, and not all have been as grand as one may imagine. But the common theme is they’ve all been built in Britain.

As we celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, these are the best of the Royal cars.

Bentley Bentayga

The styling of the £160,000 4×4 may have caused controversy but that didn’t seem to deter the Queen. “We have reserved the number one car for her,” Bentley CEO Wolfgang Duerheimer reported of the luxury British car, which was launched in 2015 in, er, Germany. The Queen was said to be impressed with its capability after testing it around the Balmoral Estate.

Daimler Super V8 LWB

With its bespoke handbag holder, controls for hidden blue strobe lights and phone fittings to enable direct contact with Downing Street, the Daimler Super V8 could only ever belong to one well known lady driver. For three years, from 2001, this Daimler was the Queen’s personal car, used around Windsor Estate and Buckingham Palace.

Jaguar X-Type Estate

When in residence at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, the Monarch enjoys driving herself to church along the Long Walk, which runs through Windsor Great Park. Last year, The Queen was forced to take to the grass when a young family didn’t hear her approaching in her Jaguar X-type estate.

Land Rover Defender

Land Rovers and Range Rovers of all shapes and sizes have been driven by the Queen. She is thought to have owned about 30 Land Rovers over her 70-year reign, from Series I models to the new Defender and a number of plush Range Rovers.

But it is the original Land Rover, which later became known as the Defender, which appears to have earned the greatest admiration of Her Majesty. A favourite is said to have been a 2002 Defender 110, featuring TD5 diesel engine, raised suspension and heated seats, and was used extensively for shooting parties.

Range Rover

Her Majesty may like the ruggedness of a Land Rover but she’s also partial to the comfort of a Range Rover. She owns a Range Rover LWB Landaulet, a stretched, open-top version used during parades, and until recently (due to failing health) enjoyed driving the model pictured above, which is fitted with Her Majesty’s personal bonnet mascot: a labrador carrying a pheasant in its mouth.

It’s thought The Queen has now taken delivery of a new Range Rover , which launched earlier this year, after the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were photographed using the all-new model for their travels in Ireland this March.

Auxiliary Territorial Service Ambulance

In 1945, The Queen (then Princess Elizabeth, of course), aged 18, joined the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service as an honorary second subaltern. She trained as a driver and mechanic, and is pictured here beside a military Ambulance.

Blog Credit Driving.co.uk

Manual vs automatic cars: which are better?

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 30 May 2022 07:24:32 GMT

Arguing about whether automatic or manual cars are better is like debating mp3 players vs vinyl. We cut through the noise and asked the experts which is best.

Manual cars

When you drive, for your car's engine to work efficiently it needs to change gears to accommodate your speed. As you drive faster, you move into a higher gear. This is true of both manual and automatic cars.

The main difference between an automatic car and a manual car is that a manual has three pedals – the brake, the accelerator, and the clutch. The driver presses the clutch while manually changing gears using the gearbox. Automatic cars change gears, too, but they do it (you guessed it!) automatically.

Manual cars are still the most common type of car in the UK, especially when it comes to smaller cars – though automatics are rising dramatically in popularity, according Phill Tromans, freelance motoring journalist. “Most volume cars and smaller cars are still manual, but larger and luxury cars are increasingly automatic focused.

“Personally, I’d advise people to learn in a manual if they can,” says Phill. “It’s still the most common type of gearbox in the UK, and if you’re qualified to drive a manual then you can drive an automatic too.” But it doesn’t work the other way around – so drivers who learn and pass their test in an automatic car will have to upgrade their licence to drive a manual 1.

"Personally, I’d advise people to learn in a manual if they can"

It used to be common knowledge that manual cars were cheaper and more fuel-efficient. However, this isn’t necessarily true today. “Some modern cars are only available with automatic gearboxes, and there are different types of automatic that use different technology. Some are more efficient than the equivalent car with a manual transmission, and some aren’t,” says Phill.

These days, manual gearboxes are also sometimes associated with high performance or luxury vehicles. But Phill doesn’t believe that manual cars are particularly higher performing than automatics. “It depends on the car,” he says.

And in terms of driver performance? “What gearbox you use has no impact on how good or bad a driver you are. Many people just enjoy having more mechanical involvement in their driving. Basically, it all boils down to what you feel the most comfortable with. While I’d recommend passing your test in a manual if you can, because it gives you options in the future, there’s no right or wrong – it depends on what kind of car you want and what kind of driving you’ll be doing.”

Automatic cars

An automatic car typically has four modes: Park (P), Reverse (R), Neutral (N), and Drive (D). Since you don’t need to change gears, there’s no clutch – just the brake and the accelerator. That means you essentially only need to think about whether you’re going forward, backward, or stopping – the car will decide the rest.

You cannot stall in an automatic car, since you don’t need to choose a gear and use the clutch. So if you’re driving in heavy traffic or other difficult conditions, an automatic might be the way to go.

“For motorway slogs, or if you want to make driving as easy as possible, then automatics can seem a preferable choice,” agrees Phill. “But they can sometimes cost more to buy and be more complicated to repair if anything goes wrong.”

Although automatic transmissions are less likely to fail because the gears shift more smoothly, when they do fail, the fix can potentially be more expensive. But it’s not all bad news. According to Martin Smith, our Motor Technical Claims Manager, “There’s a common misconception that all automatics, generally speaking, cost more than manuals to insure. Automatics are becoming more and more commonplace, and the cost of the technology is coming down.”

Martin explains that every new car gets a rating from the Association of British Insurers (ABI), which is based on extensive research into its safety and performance. This is bundled into factors about individuals’ driving history, information about where they live, and so much more to calculate that driver's premium. “The transmission type will be one small factor in the rating.”

The cars of the future

Martin says that, in time, automatics will probably dominate – but this change will probably be slow. “Unless you’re only ever going to own or drive new vehicles (lucky you) throughout your driving career, electing to take an auto test rather than a manual might limit your vehicle choice.” But still, automatics are becoming more and more commonplace, so they’re now as efficient as a manual and don’t cost significantly more.

“When we look at hybrid cars, you’ll find that tech doesn’t work with a manual because the car needs to be in control of the speed range,” says Martin. “In 2, 3, 4 years’ time when we get to the first cars which are capable of conditional automated driving, they will be automatics – because there won’t be anyone to change the gears.”

It’s hard to predict exactly what driving will look like in the future. According to Phill, fully electric cars don’t generally need a gearbox at all.

“There will definitely be a much larger proportion of electrified vehicles in the future, both hybrid and full electric,” says Phill. “The source of the electricity may well change, with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles touted by many as the way forward. But there will be many factors that influence exactly what happens, from government support and infrastructure to ease of use and consumer acceptance.”

Blog Credit Aviva

6 Simple ways to maximise your car resale value

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 30 May 2022 06:39:34 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

To sell or not to sell? That is the question asked by drivers everywhere after a few years of owning the same car.

There are many factors motivating us to keep our vehicles up to date such as enjoying the benefits of the latest technology and ensuring efficiency, despite the significant cost involved in regularly replacing your car. Even if you prefer to drive the same vehicle for as long as possible until it is no longer roadworthy, there will be some occasions where you need to sell your car sooner than expected – and needless you say you will want to sell it for the highest price possible.

Whether you want to sell a recent popular model or a car that has been around the block a few times, you can get a great price for your vehicle by taking these simple steps to maximise your car resale value.

Get a service

It goes without saying that people are more likely to buy a car if it is reliable and well-maintained. Before putting it up for sale, book a car service with a quality provider so you can prove high standards of safety and functionality. During your ownership, make sure to do regular services and MOT tests to minimise the chance of serious problems, and keep a record to show potential buyers that the vehicle has been well-cared for.

Repair minor damage

Although it will incur a charge, it is worth fixing minor issues such as windscreen chips, peeling paintwork, small dents, and expiring lights. These non-essential improvements are relatively low cost to you but will have a dramatic effect on improving the car’s resale value. Scrapes and dents should be tackled by a professional however small marks, chips and scratches can be repaired yourself with touch up pens.

Keep mileage low

While not possible for everyone, try to keep your mileage reasonably low. Having fewer miles on the
clock is most important to potential buyers, above other key factors like the car’s age. Low mileage indicates minimal wear-and-tear and suggests that there is plenty of life in the old vehicle yet.

Drive carefully

During your years of owning the car it is important to prioritise careful driving. A car without a history of accidents and major repair work is far more appealing to a used car buyer. If you have had a bump or a scrape get it professionally repaired. It doesn’t cost much and makes sure your car is protected from the elements.

Protect from the elements

Your car is as susceptible to the weathe r as your skin: sunlight will fade and dry out the paintwork; wind and hail can leave pockmarks and dents, and rain and salt residue will rust the metal. Park inside when possible and avoid leaving your car exposed to extreme elements such as snow.

Clean it!

Like selling a house, having a clean and tidy car leads to a quicker sale. People are more likely to choose a vehicle that looks as good as new rather than one that is obviously pre-owned. Take the time to thoroughly clean the inside and outside of your car to remove all possible traces of use. Specialist products for revamping the wheels/alloys and paintwork can transform the look of a car. Below you can see the improvement to the paintwork that is possible simply by using a product like T-cut.

Blog Credit: Carblog

Petrol Vs diesel

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Mon, 30 May 2022 06:17:14 GMT

Which is best, Petrol Or Diesel?

What are the pros of petrol?

Lower price

Petrol costs less at the pumps than diesel. Fill your tank and you’ll pay around 2p per litre less for petrol than for diesel. That might only be a £1 saving on a 50-litre fill, but you’ll notice the difference over the course of a year.

Better for short trips

If you’re looking for an affordable, no-nonsense car to take the kids to school, do the weekly supermarket shop or cover regular short trips around town, a petrol car can be a brilliant option. Modern small petrol engines that have their power boosted by turbocharging can be both responsive and fuel-efficient.

Less local air pollution

Petrol engines work differently to diesel engines and one of the side effects is that they generally produce far lower particulate emissions. These are different to the CO2 emissions that are linked to climate change: Particulate emissions contribute to local air pollution that has been linked to respiratory and other health problems, especially in urban areas.

Petrol cars are usually quieter

Despite advances in diesel engine technology, petrol-powered cars are still generally smoother and quieter than a diesel. Again, that’s because they work slightly differently, so you hear less noise and feel less vibration inside a petrol car, especially when you’ve just started it from cold.

What are the cons of petrol?

Petrol cars are generally less fuel-efficient than diesels

You might pay less for petrol per litre than diesel, but you could well end up using more of it. That’s particularly true on longer drives at higher average speeds, where diesel engines are at their most efficient.

It probably won’t register if your only long car journey is the annual 200-mile round trip to see relatives but if long motorway journeys are a regular feature in your life you’ll probably spend a lot more on fuel with a petrol car.
Higher CO2 emissions

Petrol cars emit more carbon dioxide (CO2) from their exhaust pipes than an equivalent diesel and CO2 is one of the primary ‘greenhouse gases’ linked to climate change.

That higher CO2 output also means you’re likely to pay more in tax with petrol cars registered before April 2017. Before that date the government used CO2 emissions to calculate a car’s annual road fund licence (more commonly called ‘road tax’). This means that cars with lower CO2 outputs – usually diesels and hybrids – costs less in tax.

What are the pros of diesel?

Better for longer journeys and towing

Diesels deliver more power at lower engine revs than their petrol equivalent. This makes diesels feel more suited to longer motorway trips because they’re not working as hard as petrol engines to produce the same performance. This also helps to make diesel cars better suited for towing.

Better fuel economy

Like for like, diesel cars give you better mpg than petrol ones. The reason is that diesel fuel contains more energy than the same volume of petrol. The difference can be quite large: It’s not unusual for a diesel engine to have an official average mpg figure of about 70mpg, compared with about 50mpg for an equivalent petrol model.

Lower CO2 emissions

CO2 emissions are directly linked to how much fuel an engine uses so diesel cars emit less CO2 than equivalent petrol cars.

What are the cons of diesel?

Diesels are more costly to buy

Diesel cars cost more than their petrol equivalents, partly because modern diesel cars are fitted with complicated technology that reduces their particulate emissions.

Can cause poor air quality

The nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases that older diesel engines emit are linked to poor air quality, breathing difficulties and other health problems in built-up areas.
Diesels don’t like short trips
Most modern diesel cars have a feature in their exhaust called a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that reduces harmful particulate emissions. The engine must get to a certain temperature for the DPF to function efficiently so if you tend to do a lot of short, low-speed journeys, the DPF can get blocked and cause related engine problems that can be costly to fix.

Which is best?

The answer depends on the number and type of miles you cover. Drivers who cover most of their miles with multiple short journeys around towns should choose petrol rather than diesel. If you do lots of longer journeys or motorway miles a diesel may be a better option.

In the long term, the government plans to stop sales of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 to encourage buyers into lower-emission hybrid and electric cars. For now, used petrol and diesel cars offer a huge choice of models and better efficiency so either could be a sound choice, depending on your needs.

Blog Credit Cazoo

Metalbox Go Green

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 08:29:43 GMT

Trying to do our bit

Metalbox Go Green......The Directors of Metalbox Vehicle Remarketing have taken the first step in reducing the carbon footprint of the company. All Directors will now drive Fully Electric & Plug in Hybrid vehicles.

All other company owned Staff cars will have the lowest Co2 emissions & fuel efficiency possible based on their usage...We also bank as ethically as possible having recently changed our bankers to the Co-op a well respected ethical bank.

The nature of our business selling new and used vehicles to the motor trade sometimes isn't seen as the most environmentally friendly way to make a living but if we make small changes bit by bit we can try to make a small difference to the world we live in.

Used car remarketing activity:

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 13:00:35 GMT

With retail demand more muted in March, there was a similar picture in the remarketing world...

Many dealers remained reluctant to buy in bulk, wary of overstocking and paying high prices when the market seemed to be on the cusp of a downturn. There was still activity, but it has certainly been more considered over recent weeks. Many remarketers have far fewer cars to sell than in previous years. With new car supply severely curtailed, we continue to witness vastly reduced volumes from fleets, particularly rental companies, and manufacturers.

Car editorial By cap hpi The performance of the auction houses was mixed through the month. At the start of March, vehicles in the market below £12,000 remained in relatively strong demand whilst cars above this amount were more challenging. As the month progressed, even these cheaper vehicles started to become tougher to sell as confidence in the market was reducing.

Conversions from dealer auction sales ranged between 70% to 90% while the fleet and leasing sales conversion rates in some cases were in the 50%s. The volume of people logging on and watching sales also dropped and many were just watching and not engaging. Physical attendances also dropped away as the month progressed.

Dealers are still buying but have become more selective. Some vendors, particularly those with volume, have adapted their expectations and lowered reserve prices on cars and this did lead to some increases in conversion rates from the middle of the month, but at the expense of percentage of monthly cap performance.

Those that did not lower their reserves suffered some particularly low conversion rates, to the levels not seen for many months. The volume of trade data remains some way below pre-COVID times, led by lower supply due to new car reductions, now reduced demand, and also retailers holding onto a larger proportion of part-exchanges to retail rather than trade

Most expensive cars ever sold at auction

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 23:10:11 GMT

These cars are not to be beleived!

We’ve all had our eyes pop at gorgeous car auctions, but this top 5 vehicles are surely the best ever.

Recording-breaking car sales

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 23:08:08 GMT

These cars sold for more than $10 million!

How much would you pay for the car of your dreams? If you’re one of the wealthiest princes in the world, then several million dollars probably isn’t too much for you.

Could this be the Vehicle of the Future?

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 23:07:00 GMT

Check out Mercedes Latest Gem!

Though it may seem simple at first glance, the latest gem from the Mercedes laboratory could very well be the luxury car that brings us into the next decade

A Busy Year in Racing

chris@rankable.uk (Chris Lamb) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 23:04:58 GMT

Just when you though things couldn't get any faster...

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any faster, they did. This year’s top races had some incredible results, speeds that not even the greatest drivers could have hoped for in the past.

mandjtailoring

How AI is Revolutionising the Automotive Industry

T he Autonomous Driving Era

S ustainable Engineering

M anufacturing Transition

N ext Level Driving Experience

T he Road Ahead

It's Monday Morning - Here's the top 10 Hypercars of 2024

1. Aston Martin Valkyrie

2. Pininfarina Battista

3. Lotus Evija

4. Bugatti Chiron

5. McLaren Senna

6. Ferrari LaFerrari

7. McLaren P1

8. Porsche 918 Spyder

9. Pagani Huayra

10. Zenvo TSR-S

Top ten car check providers

What Makes A Car Check Provider A Good Choice?

Auto Reg Check

Instant Car Check

Check Reg

Full Car Checks

Car Reg Checks

Motorcheck

Total Car Check

Free Car Check

Understanding the Different Types of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Size. ﻿

Entry Method.

Celebrate Year Of The Dragon With This 1-Of-1 Bugatti Veyron

The Photography of André Van Bever

Innovative Car Design of the Future

Heads Up Displays and Imaging Improvements

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Used Car Dealership

Research, Research, Research!

Variety of Inventory

After-Sales Support

First sustainable fuel for classic vehicles launched

The pioneering products...

Priced from £3.80 per litre...

The fuels

Latest petrol and diesel fuel prices

The latest average UK fuel prices

The RAC is concerned

Why are fuel prices still so high?

The price of oil

In 2023

The UK Government

Metalbox Remarketing: Driving Positive Change Beyond Vehicle Sales

At First Glance...

Supporting the Shannon Bradshaw Trust

Fighting Food Waste and Helping the Community

Providing Safe and Affordable Housing

Backing Local Initiatives and Organizations

Keeping it Local

Why Do Business With Metalbox Remarketing

Growth through reputation

Chris Lamb's Journey

Target Customers & Differentiators

Sourcing Stock and Customer Experience

Protecting Reputation and Resolving Issues

Availability and Support

Keeping Up with Demand and Future Vision

In conclusion

We Were Featured In AutoScene Magazine

Metalbox remarketing growth through reputation

Chris tell us about your background and what made you decide to start MetalBox Remarketing?

Tell us about Metal Box Remarketing and who your target customers are?

What differentiates you from other vehicle remarketing companies?

Where do you source your stock from?

What is the buying process for trade customers? How long does it take to sign up and can they do it all online?

What is the buying process for trade customers? How long does it take to sign up and can they do it all online?

What happens if the dealership is unhappy with the mechanical or bodywork condition of the vehicle?

Is Metal Box Remarketing available to customers all over the UK?

To organise all this data for dealers is a significant undertaking, is there a substantial team working behind the scenes?

How have you managed to keep up with demand for used cars?

Do you believe that we will see a return to “normal” in the near future?

What are your ambitions for Metal Box Remarketing and where do you see the business in 5 and 10 years time?

Size.