Vacu-Lug adds further retread manufacturing upgrades
Vacu-Lug has added two more phases of conveyor system, as well as another 12-segment, high-pressure “Logistik” press and installed new LED lighting in various areas of the Vacu-Lug site as part of a suite of measure investing in the company’s retread manufacturing capabilities. The installation of conveyor systems within Vacu-Lug’s Hotcure department began in 2012 […]
Continue ReadingMOT testers must consider process changes
MOT Stations will have to look at changing and possibly enhancing how they manage test quality in light of DVSA’s announcement that its new MOT computer system will not record QC checks. However, according to a release issued by RMI on 17 March, Authorised Examiners (AE’s) will need to provide evidence to DVSA in the […]
Continue ReadingPirelli continues young apprentice support
With National Apprentice Week drawing to a close on 13 March, Pirelli celebrated the impact these young workers have had on its business. Each year Pirelli recruits apprentices to focus on various aspects of its business focussing on various areas of the business including mechanical, electrical and research and development. They are provided with all […]
Continue ReadingMore British cars with more British components
British cars are being made with more British-sourced components as the UK automotive industrys renaissance continues apace, new research reveals. Figures from a new Automotive Council report show that domestic component makers sold 19 per cent more products to UK vehicle producers last year than in 2013.
Continue ReadingAA challenges political parties over fuel duty
AA research reveals that the UK continues to levy the highest level of road fuel tax in the EU – despite four years of a fuel duty freeze. Analysis of road fuel tax levels in Europe shows that, despite UK fuel duty being frozen at 57.95p since March 2011, drivers in this country still pay the biggest chunk (69 per cent) per litre than those in other European countries.
Continue ReadingResearch shows lack of trust in garages
UK garages are facing calls for better transparency and improved service as almost two thirds (60 per cent) of motorists say they have had a bad experience when taking their car in for a repair, service or MOT. The findings from research conducted for garage comparison website RAC Garage Compare will do little to allay concerns about the standard of service from local independent garages or fears that customers may be ripped off as one in 10, 11 per cent, say they don’t trust local garages at all.
Continue ReadingKwik-Fit offers 200 apprenticeships
Kwik-Fit is offering 200 apprenticeships at the companys centres across the UK, providing opportunities for many school leavers to work close to home. Most of the two year apprenticeships are available to 16-18 year olds, providing a valuable first step on a career in the automotive sector. Kwik-Fit has trained more than 1,800 people under its current apprenticeship programme. Over the last 15 years the scheme has consistently seen higher success rates than the national average, with many participants progressing to senior levels within the company.
Continue ReadingMOT set for modernisation
A new Internet-based MOT testing system is to replace existing MOT computers and Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) devices this year, with the first garages switching over to the new system as early as next month. The switchover, which will take place between April and September, will require Test Stations to have IT equipment that meets the minimum requirements set out in the government’s MOT Modernisation guidance. Garages will be contacted by the DVSA with a date of transition and the system is likely to go live overnight.
Continue ReadingMotorcycle registrations sustain January growth – NMDA
The National Motorcycle Dealers Association has revealed that February registrations continued the strong start to 2015 witnessed in January, with double-digit year-on-year increases. As with previous months the 51-125cc sector showed an increase of 12.4 per cent as the biggest sector in volume terms, which means 207 more machines registered over February 2014. While sales in most power ranges increased, the sub-50cc moped segment decreased 20.7 per cent.
Continue ReadingSilverline launches UK website for Atturo brand
A new UK website has been launched for the Atturo brand by its distributor, Silverline. Atturo.co.uk details its 4x4, SUV and light truck models, with three road-centric AZ range products and the Trail Blade M/T, X/T and A/T tyres featured.
Continue ReadingFirst Stop renovations begin with Halesowen facelift
UK fast fit network First Stop has begun its 2015 investment programme with a facelift for its Halesowen centre. The 52 centre network has announced new locations and significant investment expected this year, with the re-launched, new-look garage on Overend Road the first to benefit from substantial investment. The centre boasts improved branding and equipment as a result of the renovation, with three other members – Horndean Tyres, Ashton Tyres & Exhausts and Thorntons Tyres – joining Halesowen in the early stages of the planned investment.
Continue ReadingSMMT campaigns against “the demonisation of diesel”
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has launched a nationwide consumer campaign to raise awareness about the latest low-emission car technology and challenge the increasing demonisation of diesel.
Continue ReadingEx-fleet market looks strong for 2015
Supply of ex-fleet used vehicles has picked up significantly in the first two months of the year and the strong market looks set to continue through the first half of 2015, according to Andy Brown, managing director of online auction, Cars Direct.
Continue ReadingTransense and Tip Top sign million pound deal
Transense Technologies Plc reports that its Translogik tyre management solutions division has signed an exclusive agreement to supply its tyre inspection probe to Rema Tip Top Holdings UK Limited for use in Rema Tip Top’s new passenger car tyre inspection system, ‘Tip Top Tread’. Tip Top Tread, based on Translogik’s proprietary tyre probe technology, will […]
Continue ReadingConsumers most likely to repeat-buy mid-range tyres
Tyrereviews data suggests mid-range is perceived as outperforming premium The tyre-buying public is most likely to repeat-buy mid-range tyre brands, according to data collected and compiled by consumer tyre rating website, tyrereviews.co.uk. The data, which is based on a total of 11,429 consumer reviews even goes as far as saying that consumers believe their mid-range […]
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