Citroen C3 review

Citroen has regained its mojo of late and the new C3 supermini is proof positive.

The outgoing car sold well enough, but it was bland – something that could never be said of the third generation C3.

Funky and distinctive, it takes some styling cues from its big brother, the C4 Cactus, so it boasts features such as Airbumps on the doors, the two-tier headlight signature, straps for internal door handles and a clutter-free dashboard.

With its chunky, cheeky styling, it certainly will have urban appeal, but it’s the opportunity for personalisation that also sets it apart.

Thanks to its “floating” roof, it’s possible to specify two-tone paintjobs. In fact, there are 36 colour combinations available, meaning that you’d very unlucky to end up with the same look as your neighbour. There are also three interior trims.

If we had to spec up a car we’d go for the Polar White body, Sport Red roof and Colorado ‘Hype’ ambiance inside, though Power Orange with an Onyx black roof and a Red ‘Urban’ ambience interior looks good too. Frankly, there’s a lot of fun to be had configuring your C3 before you even get on the road. Oh, and we’re saving the best bit till later, so read on…

The new C3 is available with a thrummy 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine with three power outputs (68PS, 82 and 110), plus a lazier 1.6-litre diesel unit (75 and 100).

There are three trim levels – Touch, Feel and Flair – while the range starts at £10,995.

There’s a reasonable amount of tech as standard, including cruise control, DAB radio, Bluetooth and lane departure warning, but you have to move up to mid-level ‘Feel’ (from £13,045) before you get a 7-inch touchscreen with full connectivity, alloy wheels and wheel arch extensions.

We tested two top-of-the-range ‘Flair’ versions of the C3, with a PureTech 100 petrol engine and a BlueHDi 100 diesel unit, both mated to 5-speed manual gearboxes. The engines are tried and tested across the Citroen, Peugeot and DS, and highly recommended.

The petrol unit is capable of 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 117mph, while 61.4mpg is possible on paper, and CO2 emissions are low 103g/km.

The diesel has a top speed of 115mph, it can reach 62mph in 10.6 seconds and is capable of 76.3mpg, while CO2 emissions are just 95g/km.

The choice you make depends on your regular driving patterns. For more local, lower average speed journeys you might be better off with the petrol version, but if you spend hours cruising on the motorway, the more relaxed diesel would be best.

With light steering, good visibility, comfy seats and plenty of space up front, the C3 is a classic and classy supermini.

Luggage space is a decent 300 litres (rising to 922 litres with the rear seats folded down), but taller adults may struggle for leg and headroom in the back (especially if you opt for the full-length panoramic sunroof).

The handling is good too, unless you try to drive it like a hot hatch when body roll becomes more apparent and it’s slightly unsettled over rougher surfaces.

That said, the C3 isn’t likely to be bought for its ability to be driven at speed over challenging roads – this is a car that will spend most of its time pootling around and looking very cool.

Now we come to the C3’s pièce de résistance. In what Citroen calls a world first, it’s available with a built-in GPS-enabled dash camera, called ConnectedCam.

Concealed within the housing for the rear-view mirror, it allows you (though preferably your front seat passenger) to take pictures of the road ahead, or short videos. Just press a big button below the mirror.

So, whether it’s a bizarre car up ahead, a traffic jam or an unbelievable sunset, there’s no need to miss it. And if that’s not enough, you can instantly share your media via social media using a free app.

With GPS as part of ConnectedCAM,  you can also geolocate your vehicle and store the position so that you can find it easily, so no more hunting around dark multi-storey car parks when you’ve forgotten where you parked the car.

Most importantly, in the event of vehicle impact the system switches on automatically to record and save. The video can run for up to 1.5 minutes (30 seconds before and 60 after) and the footage can be useful as evidence.

As you can see, the C3 has a lot to offer and the headline figure of £10,995 sounds good, but the reality is that you’re going to have to spend closer to £15,000 in order to get the must-have options including the touchscreen, Airbumps and ConnectedCam.

Verdict: The new Citroen C3 is a breath of fresh air. Funky, comfortable, easy to drive and boasting a pioneering piece of tech, it will rightly be on many people’s supermini shortlists in 2017.

Review: @GarethHerincx

The post Citroen C3 review appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/citroen-c3-review/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/155204199583

Top 10 most searched for cars of 2016

Auto Trader has revealed the most searched for cars of the year – the makes and models most popular on the online automotive marketplace which currently has almost half a million cars listed for sale.

The BMW 3 series topped the league table for the sixth consecutive year, beating two of its BMW stablemates – the 1 Series and 5 Series – in a Top 10 75% dominated by premium vehicles.

Top 10 most searched for cars on Auto Trader in 2016

1. BMW 3 Series
2. Volkswagen Golf
3. Merecdes-Benz C-Class
4. Ford Focus
5. BMW 5 Series
6. BMW 1 Series
7. Ford Fiesta
8. Audi A3
9. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
10. Vauxhall Astra

“The BMW 3 series continues its dominance as the most searched for car on Auto Trader, while the overall popularity for premium vehicles continues,” said Jon Quirk, Auto Trader’s Editor-in-Chief.

“This is due, in part, to an expansive new car portfolio and the availability of low rate finance. Small family cars have been big news in 2016 too, as they can provide superb levels of in-car technology, safety and refinement in more compact, more efficient and cost effective packages.”

Making a prediction for 2017, he added: “2017 is going to be the year of the small car. The small car league table will see a host of new competition – the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Citroen C3 and Seat Ibiza will all have brand new models in 2017, not to mention the totally reinvented Nissan Micra.

“We’re also expecting to see an increase in the number of searches for electric vehicles, with refreshed models like the Renault Zoe promising better range and the release of the Tesla Model 3 – the Ford Focus-sized electric car with a 200+ mile range costing £30k – which should bring mass appeal for UK car buyers.”

The post Top 10 most searched for cars of 2016 appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/top-10-searched-cars-2016/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/155178412693

Top 5 cars most of risk of being stolen

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is the car most at risk of being stolen in the UK, according to new research by MyCarCheck.com.

With information from the police, DVLA, insurers and finance houses, the company holds comprehensive data on every vehicle on the road – things that buyers should be aware of before making an offer.

One in six Porsche 911 Carrera 4S registrations checked returned a stolen warning. Second most at risk was the Mercedes-Benz CLC 220 Cdi Sport Auto, with one in 11 checked returning a stolen warning.

Cars with highest percentage of stolen warnings in 2016

1. Porsche 911 Carrera 4S
2. Mercedes-Benz CLC 220 Cdi Sport Auto
3. Range Rover Evoque Dynamic D4A
4. Honda Jazz SE CVT
5. Ford Fiesta Zetec

“It should come as no surprise that the cars most at risk of being stolen in 2016 are prestige models,” said MyCarCheck.com’s Roger Powell. “They are desirable to used car buyers and targeted by car thieves due to the profit potential.

“The fact that the UK’s best-selling car, the Fiesta, is fifth on our list shows that any used car for sale can potentially be stolen.

“While the risk of buying one is relatively low, you must weigh that against the embarrassment of being pulled by the police and finding yourself massively out of pocket when it is seized and returned to its rightful owner. That’s why all motor traders use vehicle provenance checks and we urge all consumers to do the same.

“The latest British Crime Survey showed that vehicle theft is on the rise for the first time in 20 years. The period April 2015 to March 2016 saw an 8% rise, with 80,047 vehicles recorded as stolen. “

The post Top 5 cars most of risk of being stolen appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/top-5-cars-risk-stolen/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/155177681593

Electric car charging rip-off?

It’s reported that ministers are preparing to tackle overpriced electric car charging over fears that it can cost as much to run a green vehicle as a diesel car.

According to the Daily Mail, there will be a reform of electricity prices, which can reach as much as “£7.50 per half-hour charge”.

Apparently “the new rules will give drivers easier access to public charge points and set common standards for pricing”.

About time too. With a question mark over the long-term viability of diesel cars, we must make the switch to EVs sooner than later.

Over-priced charging risks strangling the zero emission motoring dream at birth.

The post Electric car charging rip-off? appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/electric-car-charging-rip-off/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/155067345043

Bentley Bentayga review

British luxury marque Bentley’s first SUV is a remarkable car and an incredible feat of engineering.

Billed as “the fastest, most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive SUV in the world”, it almost seems to defy logic.

At about the average height of a man, more than five metres long and weighing in at around 2.5 tonnes, it’s a beast. And yet, its mighty 6.0-litre W12 engine can propel it to 0-60mph in 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) and on to a top speed of 187mph (301 km/h).

Just to put that performance into perspective, the recently announced “most powerful, most dynamic production Range Rover to date” – the SVAutobiography Dynamic – has a 0-60mph time of 5.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds) and a top speed of 140mph (225 km/h).

But here’s the thing. As if all that isn’t enough, the Bentayga also has all-terrain ability. Apparently, the development programme ranged across five continents, from the dirt and gravel of South Africa and the dunes of Dubai, to the muddy fields of Cheshire, and from -30°C in the frozen North Cape to searing 50°C desert heat.

So Bentley has created a new ultra luxury SUV sector in one fell swoop, and for now, it has the playing field all to itself and is making hay. The car is sold out for its first year of production.

SUVs, or Sports Utility Vehicles, are the fastest growing sector in the world so even luxury manufacturers have had to rethink their strategies. Within the next few years the Bentayga will be joined by SUVs or “crossovers” from Lamborghini, Aston Martin, and even Rolls-Royce.

Already in 2016, Maserati has unveiled the Levante and Land Rover has launched the most luxurious Range Rover ever, the £148,900 SVAutobiography.

Now we come to the elephant in the room – the Bentayga’s divisive looks. With its matrix grille and distinctive floating all-LED headlamps, the front end definitely works. It also has a classy profile, despite the restraints of being an SUV, which means it must have little or no overhang at the rear. From behind it is, shall we say, understated.

Inside, however, it’s oozing with Bentley DNA. Beautifully finished and sumptuous, there are metres of signature diamond quilted hand-stitched leather, plenty of precision-cut burr walnut and cool metal elements.

If the standard clock above the centre console isn’t enough for you, a bespoke mechanical Mulliner Tourbillon by Breitling clock can also be specified. At £150,000, it has to be the most expensive optional extra ever.

The trademark Bentley knurling on the drive mode selector and gear knob is complemented by air vents that are controlled by highly-polished chrome organ pulls. Up above, the Bentayga comes with a panoramic glass roof, making up almost 60% of the total roof surface.

The front seats deserve a special mention. Individually handcrafted at Bentley’s HQ in Crewe, north-west England, they feature 22-way adjustment, a six-programme massage system, heating and ventilation. The rear seats might not have quite as many toys, but the space available puts many a limousine to shame.

As you’d expect, the Bentayga is also packed with tech. There’s an 8” touchscreen infotainment system, a 30-language sat nav, and a choice of between three different sound systems. The Naim for Bentley Premium Audio is the most powerful, boasting 1,950 watts and a network of 18 speakers and super-tweeters.

Driver aids include Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist (autonomous parking), Rear Crossing Traffic Warning (radar detects crossing traffic when reversing out of a parking space) and Top View (which uses four cameras to display a bird’s eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings).

However, all that opulence and technology comes at a price. The Bentayga will set you back £160,200, and by the time you’ve added a few items from the options list, it’s likely to end up closer to £200,000.  My test car is a case in point. It cost £193,135 with extras.

If money is no object, then the Bentayga makes absolute sense, especially if you encounter weather extremes or there’s just a chance that you may need to call upon the car’s four-wheel drive.

I drove the Bentayga over a variety of roads and it’s seriously impressive. Once you’ve adjusted to its sheer size, the luxury, comfort, commanding driving position and sheer power of the engine is intoxicating.

There are four on-road modes (Sport, Comfort, ‘Bentley’ and Custom), plus four all terrain modes (Snow & Grass, Dirt & Gravel, Mud & Trail, Sand Dunes), but frankly, default ‘Bentley’ is enough. The acceleration would do a supercar justice. In a car of this size, it’s simply astonishing – and, of course, it’s whisper quiet while cruising too.

Thanks to Bentley’s brilliant electronic Dynamic Ride system, the Bentayga delivers a superb blend of handling and ride quality. As you’d expect there’s a little body roll in corners, but it is very well controlled.

It’s almost churlish to mention economy, given that the price of petrol (super unleaded no less) is not a major consideration if you’re in the market for a car in this league, but for the record, it’s capable of 21.6mpg and emits 296g/km of CO2. A more economical diesel (35.8 mpg) arrives later in 2017.

Verdict: The Bentley Bentayga is an SUV with unbeatable badge appeal and road presence. Powerful, practical, comfortable and luxurious, it’s also a surprisingly serious driver’s car.

Review in association with H Edition Magazine – the quarterly publication dedicated to Business, Economy, Luxury, Lifestyle and Culture.

The post Bentley Bentayga review appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/bentley-bentayga-review/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/155038909218

One in three drivers struck with ‘Paralellophobia’

Millions of motorists are suffering from ‘parallelophobia’ – a fear of parallel parking, according to a new study.

Almost a third of drivers, that’s potentially more than 11 million, admit the prospect of trying to manoeuvre their motor into a parallel space drives them to distraction, and 34% confessed they think it’s the hardest parking technique.

More than half of drivers have gone past an empty space because it meant they would have had to carry out the procedure they fear the most.

Three in 10 admit to parking more than a MILE from their destination rather than attempt to parallel park.

And one in five said they would rather continue to circle round a car park or street until an easier space becomes available.

Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com which commissioned the survey of 2,000 drivers to mark the launch of its new parking tool, said: “Parallelophobia is a fear that resonates with many drivers, with some going to great lengths to avoid performing the manoeuvre.

“As one of the more technical parts of driving, it’s understandable why some motorists may be frightened of damaging other cars as well as their own.

“This week drivers everywhere will be hitting the sales and competing for precious parking spaces, so it’s likely that this phobia of parallel parking will be heightened over the period.

“Those who are confident parallel parkers should use their fearlessness to their advantage as it will surely give them the best chance of getting a space during this competitive time.”

The study also revealed that 63% of drivers said they struggle to park when they’re trying to get used to the size of their new car.

In fact, some of the most common problems when trying to parallel park were found to be bumping into the car in front or behind, becoming stuck mid-manoeuvre and unable to get out of the space or accidentally running someone over .

And of those who have bumped another car while trying to parallel park, only five per cent said they left their insurance details for the other driver.

But it seems stress might be a big factor as knowing there are other drivers waiting for you to complete the parallel park and having a partner in the car have been named as two of the most stressful parts about parallel parking.

The study found that many drivers struggle with the manoeuvre because they’re frightened of hitting someone else’s car, while one in five admit it’s because they have no spatial awareness.

Nearly one in five (18%) said they have real problems parallel parking because they can’t see the front or back of their car from the driver’s seat.

Many will avoid the task altogether by parking on a curb and some have even asked their travel companion to get out and park the car for them.

The study revealed, one in 10 women thinks everything about parking is stressful to them – it’s one of the hardest parts about driving.

In fact 77% of men find it easy to complete a parallel park, compared to only 44% of women.

To help drivers save money and overcome the stresses of parking Confused.com has launched a parking tool which allows drivers to find and book over 250,000 parking spaces nationwide.

The post One in three drivers struck with ‘Paralellophobia’ appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/one-three-drivers-struck-paralellophobia/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154982231513

Top 10 cars for new drivers

The Suzuki Celerio has topped a chart of cars with the cheapest cost of motoring, making it a good buy as a first car.

The city car will not only hold its value, but is the cheapest to run when based on factors such as price, insurance, fuel consumption, tax and emissions.

The research, carried out by automotive experts hpi, also found that paying over the odds for a car was highest amongst 18-24 year olds (30%) and nearly a fifth (17%) admitted rushing the purchase of their first car, as they were eager to get on the road and start driving.

Top 10 cars for new drivers

1. Suzuki Celerio Hatchback
2. Dacia Sandero Diesel Hatchback
3. Peugeot 108 Hatchback
4. Dacia Logan MCV Diesel Estate
5. Toyota Aygo Hatchback
6. Citroen C1 Hatchback
7. Nissan Micra Hatchback Special Edition
8. Suzuki Swift Hatchback
9. Nissan Note Hatchback Special Edition
10. Seat Ibiza Sport Coupe

“The Suzuki Celerio came out top in our best buy survey with a total cost of motoring of £7,099.95, ahead of the Dacia Sandero at £7,212 and the Peugeot 108 at £7,646,” explained Philip Nothard of hpi.

“This includes everything from the cost of the vehicle itself and servicing and road tax to insurance and fuel costs.

“The key thing to remember when buying or selling a car is to always do your homework – if buying a used car privately, find out what you should be paying and do the necessary checks to find out how many keepers it has had, whether there is a mileage discrepancy, if it’s ever been stolen, involved in an accident or even written off. It really does pay to be thorough.”

The post Top 10 cars for new drivers appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/top-10-cars-new-drivers/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154894610503

Drivers braced for harsher phone penalties

New punishments due in 2017 will deter 91% of motorists from using mobile phones whilst driving, new research has revealed.

An update to the law regarding mobile phone usage whilst driving could see the number of offenders drop dramatically, according to the study leading vehicle leasing company, Leasing Options.

In 2014, Government figures revealed that more than 500,000 motorists were still using their mobile phones while driving each day.

The Leasing Options research indicates that more than half (51%) of drivers admit they have used their mobile phone whilst driving.

UK law states that it’s illegal to use a hand-held phone or similar device while driving and the rules are the same if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.

The current punishment is a potential three penalty points on your licence and a fine of £100. However, after the update – due in the first half of 2017 – there will be an on-the-spot fine of £200, plus six points automatically.

More than three-quarters (76%) of the drivers surveyed revealed they were aware of the proposed changes and a huge 91% said the increase in punishment would deter them from using their mobile phone whilst driving in the future.

However, it’s not just the hrasher penalty that will put drivers off taking the risk – 77% admitted that the removal of a remedial course as an alternative punishment (to receiving points on your licence and a fine) would also be a big factor in deterring them.

“There has been a lot of discussion recently as to whether the increase in punishment would actually stop people using their phones whilst driving,” said Mike Thompson of Leasing Options.

“We are pleased to see that our research shows it may well see the number of drivers receiving points on their license for this offence decrease.

“It’s important that we recognise mobile phones in vehicles as distractions and do all we can to remove this completely. The risks involved in picking up the phone for the driver, as well as other drivers on the road, is far too great.”

Visit Leasing Options to find out more about the changes to the law.

The post Drivers braced for harsher phone penalties appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/motorists-braced-harsher-phone-penalties/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154852162553

Lamborghini’s London festive treat

Leading luxury dealer group H.R. Owen is displaying the ultra-rare Lamborghini Veneno Coupe for the very first time in the UK.

One of only four examples built in 2013 to celebrate Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary, the Veneno will be on show at Lamborghini London in South Kensington from December 23 to January 6. It’s worth north of £3.8 million.

H.R. Owen’s model will be the very first Veneno to be featured in a main dealership in the UK, having only previously been on public display at the Lamborghini Museum in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy, and at high-profile motor shows around the world.

The post Lamborghini’s London festive treat appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/lamborghinis-london-festive-treat/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154810227093

Honda celebrates 100 million cars

Japanese car giant has reached an automotive milestone, building its 100 millionth car globally.

Vehicle production began in 1963 with the T360 mini-truck and S500 sports car – a year later came the iconic S600 roadster.

Honda now has 34 production facilities on five continents. For instance, Honda’s huge UK car plant in Swindon, Wiltshire, produces some 600 vehicles every day – that’s about one every 90 seconds.

Opened in 1992, it has a production capacity of 150,000 cars per year and models currently being built include the CR-V, Civic 5-Door, Civic Tourer and the all-new Civic Type R.

“Thanks to the support from our customers around the world, Honda was able to deliver 100 million automobiles,” said Takahiro Hachigo, President and CEO of Honda Motor.

“The passion of our company founder who wanted to help people in their daily lives and pursue the joy of driving has been inherited by Honda associates as the original starting point of Honda automobile manufacturing.

“Striving to meet the next 100 million customers, Honda will continue delivering increasingly attractive products.”

The post Honda celebrates 100 million cars appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/honda-celebrates-100-million-cars/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154808658158

Tyre safety takes a back seat

One in 10 UK car drivers have never checked their tyre pressures, according to new research by Hankook Tyres.

In addition, one in five only check their tyre pressures every six months, despite the general recommendation that they should be checked every week.

The Hankook survey delves into drivers’ awareness surrounding tyre safety and also reveals that half of drivers are unaware of what the legal limit is for tyre tread on a passenger car.

Tread depth has a decisive influence on the way a vehicle accelerates, brakes and corners. Safe tyres with legal tread depth will reduce the risks to drivers, their passengers and all road users.

Driving on tyres with illegal tread depth not only reduces their safety on the road, but also risks a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre.

Despite the fact that 70% of drivers do not change the tyres on their vehicle until there is a problem or they are advised to, 40% said that tyres are most important to maintain on a car.

However, the report also reveals that two thirds of drivers wouldn’t know how to change the tyre on a car in an emergency and almost one in five motorists do not carry a spare tyre in their vehicle, even though a quarter of drivers have broken down as a result of tyre related problems.

With winter now upon us, the research looked into driving in wintry conditions with a massive three quarters of drivers not confident driving in wintry conditions and less than 10% of drivers are unaware of the correct braking distance in icy weather. This means they could be putting other road users, and themselves, at risk by under-estimating the distance.

“The number of reported casualties resulting from tyre-related incidents over the last 5 years is 5,677 of which 989 people were killed or seriously injured,” said Stephen Marsh of Hankook.

“Where casualties arise from an accident caused by a vehicle defect, tyres are the single largest contributory factor over the last five reported years, accounting for 36% of the total.

“2.2 million cars annually fail their MoT due to tyre-related defects and with the weather getting colder and wintry conditions soon to arrive, it’s more important than ever for drivers to have better awareness when it comes to their vehicles and tyres.”

The post Tyre safety takes a back seat appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/tyre-safety-takes-back-seat/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154695210328

Ford GT supercar production begins

The first road-going version of the all-new 2017 Ford GT has rolled off the assembly line in Ontario, US.

“When we kicked off 2016, we had two primary objectives for our Ford GT supercar – to excel at Le Mans, and to start deliveries before year-end,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, global product development, and chief technical officer. “We’ve achieved both.”

“The all-new Ford GT is a showcase of our strength in innovation and our commitment to delivering more for our customers – especially related to lightweight materials, aerodynamics and EcoBoost engine technologies.”

Originally unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2015, Ford Performance is now delivering the first cars to lucky customers around the globe, just in time for Christmas.

The race version won in its class in the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2016, living up to the iconic car that inspired its design, the GT40, which ruled the famed French circuit from 1966 to 1969.

The 2017 road-going Ford GT is powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6, which is said to produce some 595bhp.

Global production will be limited to 250 units per year, though Ford received more than 6,000 applications for the first 500.

Ford hasn’t confirmed the new GT’s price tag yet, but it’s believed to be around the £350,000 mark.

The post Ford GT supercar production begins appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/ford-gt-supercar-production-begins/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154588161108

Drivers would back ‘phone blocking’ plan

Most motorists believe the Government should introduce technology to disable certain phone functions for the sake of safety, according to new research.

Fitting all cars with some form of blocking device was considered a more effective plan than harsher penalties or more education as road users reveal they cannot resist temptation.

The study of 1,000 UK motorists for Continental Tyres’ Vision Zero – a commitment to reduce road fatalities worldwide – uncovered that 11.3 million road users own up to using a mobile phone illegally.

Just under half of drivers (46%) admitted to researchers that they think it is OK to look at their phone when stopped or in slow moving traffic.

Reading texts, checking social media profiles and viewing emails is now more common than taking or making a phone call, meaning that as well as the evident distraction in concentration, people are taking their eyes off the road.

“Our research reveals that drivers know that their use of phones is illegal, distracting and dangerous yet they cannot help themselves,” said Continental Tyres’ safety expert Mark Griffiths.

“Nearly half, 45%, told us they struggle to be digitally disconnected and 28% felt that so many people now checked their mobile in traffic it had become normalised.”

In addition to the need to improve motorists’ behaviour, it is apparent that people want technology to help deliver the solution and enhance road safety – 66% think the Government should enforce a device to disable web-browsing, emails and the ability to send and receive texts.

Of those that admitted to breaking the current law, 31% said they had done so in the last month.

One in three drivers think the situation is getting worse and another 26% think advances in safety through new technology is being cancelled out by our unwillingness to put or phones out of reach.

Professor John Groeger, a specialist in driver psychology and author of ‘Sharing the Driving’ for Continental Tyres said: “It is really interesting that motorists want an enforced solution rather than to curb their own behaviour – yet there is no such system currently being promoted in the UK.

“It is imperative that we find a way to resolve this as the ‘switch cost’ – the critical time it takes us to shift our concentration from a task like reading a text to again fully engaging in driving is so important in reducing accidents.”

Even with the additional safety features being added to cars motorists believe the illegal use of phones when driving is decreasing road safety.

Mark Griffiths of Continental Tyres added: “There are enormous strides being made in autonomous vehicle technology to deliver even greater safety.

“Yet our study identifies that we are unsure about allowing cars to take even more control of driving. But when we recognise our obvious failing in relation to the use of phones we do want technology to step up and save us from ourselves.

“It points to the fascinating, probably unique, relationship we have with our cars and how the development of technologies is reshaping that.”

The post Drivers would back ‘phone blocking’ plan appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/drivers-back-phone-blocking/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154504650183

Renault Scenic review

MPVs were all the rage back in the day, but then along came SUVs and crossovers of a similar size and their popularity plummeted.

Renault reckons sales have now reached a plateau and there’s still plenty of mileage left in people carriers. So much so that it’s launched a fourth generation car (and stretched seven-seater Grand Scenic sibling).

Some 6.5 million Scenics have been sold globally since Renault pioneered the compact MPV segment in 1996. However, the new car is like no other.

Priced from £21,445, the Scenic and Grand Scenic boast a dramatically distinctive design with sculptured, swept-back styling, a steeply-racked windscreen and big standout 20-inch wheels.

Elsewhere, there are key features we’ve come to expect from the ‘Renault Renaissance’ including a maximum five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating, a strong mix of economical petrol and diesel engines, excellent packaging, a state-of-the-art infotainment system and a classy feel.

Starting with the interior, the new Scenic is slightly wider than its predecessor and has a longer wheelbase which means there’s more space inside.

Always a strong point for any MPV, the Scenic doesn’t disappoint with ample room up front and in the rear (though check the rear head space if you plan to carry taller passengers), plus there’s a class-leading 572 litres in the boot or 1554 litres with the back seats folded down, (there’s a simple ‘One Touch’ operation which can be activated from inside the boot or via the touchscreen).

The Grand Scenic is much the same, just a little longer and with a third row of seats, though it has to be said these are really only for small children. There’s 189 litres of boot space with the third row of seats in place – 596 with the seats down.

In both the Scenic and Grand Scenic, nifty little fold-down picnic tables are available for rear seat passengers.

The lower part of the centre console also slides back into the rear seating area. It’s certainly different, but we’re not 100% sure why. Yes, it frees up a bit of space up front, but maybe the main reason is to separate children a little in the back or just to give them extra storage and closer USB ports. Who knows?

What we do know is that the interior is bathed in light and the visibility is excellent thanks to acres of glass, that enormous windscreen and an optional full length (fixed) panoramic sunroof.

The seats are very comfortable and the driving position is high, which should suit SUV and crossover buyers. The Scenic also sits slightly higher than the outgoing model.

A large centre dial dominates the binnacle in front of the driver, while to the left sits Renault’s excellent R-Link 2 infotainment system featuring an 8.7-inch portrait touchscreen, first seen in the new Megane, with full connectivity.

There are four trim levels (Expression+, Dynamique Nav, Dynamique S Nav and Signature Nav) and all variants get air-conditioning, electric windows, DAB radio and automatic emergency braking.

The list of other options and driver safety aids is extensive, ranging from Adaptive Cruise Control to an awesome BOSE sound system.

The engines available at launch include two 1.2-litre petrol units (115bhp and 130bhp), plus a 110bhp 1.5-litre and a 1.6-litre diesel (130bhp and 160bhp). These are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, while some also benefit from a dual clutch automatic box.

The petrol units are both capable of 48.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 129/g/km.

The most frugal engine of all is the 110bhp diesel, which on paper can hit 72.4mpg, emitting just 100g/km of CO2. However, unless you want to take things in a leisurely fashion, it can get a little breathless.

Our pick of the powertrains is the 130bhp 1.6-litre diesel in Dynamique S Nav trim which is the best mix between performance and economy, though sadly it’s only available with a six-speed manual gearbox.

It can hit 62mph from standstill in 11.4 seconds (but feels faster), go on to a top speed of 118mph, yet can manage 61.6mpg and emits a low 119g/km of CO2.

The engine pulls well and settles down nicely, though it doesn’t seem as refined as it is in the Megane under acceleration.

The steering is light and, despite those huge wheels, the ride is pleasant enough, though it certainly won’t smoothe out all the bumps in the road. Body lean is well controlled in corners, but generally this is a car for cruising in comfort, not hustling around country roads.

Verdict: The new Scenic is up against some formidable rivals including the Citroen C4 Picasso, Ford C-MAX and Kia Carens, so it has to score high. The good news for Renault is that it’s an impressive, well-built all-round package.

Generously equipped, spacious, safe, stylish and incorporating some SUV elements, the Scenic really has been reinvented for a new generation.

Top tip: if you go for a Scenic, choose the vibrant Honey Yellow colour.

The post Renault Scenic review appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/renault-scenic-review/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154340238738

£212,904 – the cost of a lifetime’s motoring

The average motorist could buy a property with the money they spend on car care over a lifetime, reveals new research.

Online car repair marketplace, ClickMechanic, claims we spend £212,904 on maintaining our cars over a 63-year driving career.

We’ll also buy a total of 14 cars and spend an estimated 12,600 hours (or 525 days) of our lifetime behind the wheel.

Driving costs start with the average learner driver spending at least £690 to pass a test, and taking around 20-30 hours to do so.

Insurance is another time and money drain with more than 80% of drivers now buying their car insurance online, with most spending approximately an hour comparing prices and purchasing policies. Over time, this could cost as much as 63 hours of your time and £29,000 over your lifetime.

Further figures revealed that whilst modern cars are reliable and owners may only be looking at calling out mechanics approximately twice every three years, this equates to an average of £683 per repair.

In real terms, this could amount to a staggering £28,686. In addition to the cost, the survey found that we spend an additional 84 hours waiting around for our car to be serviced at an average cost of £19,700.

Add to these figures the 84 hours plus £28,560 we spend on road tax, breakdown cover, replacement tyres and parking it is easy to see how the cost in time and money escalates over a lifetime.

Depending on how far you commute on a daily basis, you could be looking to spend at least £101,000 on petrol or diesel alone to fuel your car and as much as 600 hours (or 25 days) at a petrol station throughout the course of your lifetime.

It was also found that the average amount spent on MOTs during those roadworthy years could be around £3,000. MOTs can be even more expensive if you need repairs, but they can also be time consuming. The average driver spends over 60 hours waiting for MOTs to be undertaken.

Cleaning your car uses up precious time and money too. The survey found that even cleaning a car racked up the hours. For all weather washes, that’s approximately 168 hours, if it takes 40 minutes to clean it by hand, or take to the car wash/valet. Washing your car four times a year at average cost of £9 per time adds up to £2,268 over your driving lifetime.

Even the smallest of car-related chores, such as putting air in the tyres, can add up. What may seem like a five-minute job, racks up a surprising total of 63 hours at the tyre pump over the course of a lifetime!

“It’s staggering when you add up how much we invest in buying, owning and maintaining a vehicle over our lifetime, both in terms of time and money spent,” said Andrew Jervis, co-founder of ClickMechanic.

“We all lead busy lives and are stretched for time, so anything that helps us save time as well as money is a bonus and many of us use cost comparison websites and other platforms to try and reduce the time spent comparing quotes and making sure we’re paying a reasonable price.

“We’ve tasked ourselves to bring trust and transparency to the automotive repair industry. Being able to source a mechanic easily or get a quote for a repair online has to go in some way towards that, both in terms of saving time and knowing how much you should be paying for your repair.”

The post £212,904 – the cost of a lifetime’s motoring appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/212904-cost-lifetimes-motoring/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154284667473

Big heads Clarkson, Hammond and May arrive Down Under

Giant stone heads of The Grand Tour’s Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond brought Sydney to a standstill.

Their appearance Down Under follows sightings in Washington State last week, where it was reported that the huge sculptures would be located next to the Space Needle in Seattle. However, The Grand Tour Twitter account admitted on Thursday that the plan didn’t quite work out.

Instead, the heads were diverted and the three statues were this week seen leaving a boat at White Bay before being paraded through Sydney on a flatbed truck bearing Amazon and The Grand Tour logos.

It’s thought the sculptures are part of an elaborate publicity stunt to promote The Grand Tour’s launch on Amazon Prime globally in more than 200 countries and territories.

The Grand Tour has not yet revealed the final destination of the statues, but trucks containing other body parts have apparently also been spotted, raising speculation that a colossal statue could be erected somewhere else in Australia.

The post Big heads Clarkson, Hammond and May arrive Down Under appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/big-heads-clarkson-hammond-may-arrive/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154241517798

Nissan Juke’s “blindfolded” J-turn record

A Nissan Juke has set the world’s first ‘blind’ J-turn record with the driver using only the car’s Intelligent Around View Monitor (AVM) on-board camera technology for guidance.

Stuntman Paul Swift spun the car 180 degrees with all the windows blacked out, using only the Juke’s four exterior cameras to position himself.

Amazingly, he equalled the existing ‘sighted’ record – turning the compact crossover from driving backwards to driving forwards in a space just 18cm longer than its bumper-to-bumper distance.

Nissan’s Intelligent AVM system provides the driver with a 360-degree birds’ eye view of the car and its surroundings. The four camera images are digitally stitched together and displayed on the NissanConnect dashboard screen, making parking simpler and safer.

“Looking at the 360-degree view on the dashboard screen – rather than over my shoulder through the rear window – was strange at first, but I quickly adjusted,” explained Paul Swift. “The AVM cameras gave me a clear view of the track so I was confident of staying within the lines.”

The Nissan Juke is no stranger to stunts and record attempts. The compact crossover already holds the record for completing the fastest mile on two wheels.

The post Nissan Juke’s “blindfolded” J-turn record appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/nissan-jukes-blindfolded-j-turn-record/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154164865603

Dangers of driving dehydrated revealed

At this time of the year there’s rightly a focus on drink driving, but did you know it’s also dangerous to drive whilst dehydrated?

Two in three (67%) drivers in the UK fail to recognise major symptoms of dehydration including slower reaction times, loss of focus and muscle cramps, potentially putting themselves and others at risk behind the wheel, new research shows.

Leading vehicle leasing company Leasing Options surveyed more than 1,000 drivers and found that more than half of motorists (58%) claim they are aware of the risks of dehydrated driving.

However, 55% drink less than the daily recommended amount of water and 43% still admit to not having a bottle of water with them on car journeys.

Health authorities recommend drinking around two litres of water a day, but Leasing Options found that 37% of those surveyed are only drinking one litre of water a day, with 18% drinking less than one litre a day.

Overall, 84% of drivers think drink driving is more dangerous than dehydrated driving, even though a recent study conducted by Loughborough University revealed that mild dehydration is equivalent to being over the drink driving limit in terms of driver errors.

To test their knowledge further, Leasing Options also asked drivers to identify which of the following were symptoms of dehydration…

Symptom of dehydration	Percentage of drivers recognising dehydration symptoms
Headache	71.5%
Muscle cramps	37.7%
Dry skin/dry mouth	67.4%
Loss of concentration	59.3%
Loss of focus	47.1%
Slower reaction times	42.7%
Feeling faint	58.6%
Dizziness	52.9%
None of the above	2.6%

“When starting your car, ready for the morning commute, you may not think drinking an extra glass of water before leaving the house would affect your driving abilities, but you would be wrong,” said Leasing Options’ Mike Thompson.

“So, make it your prerogative and try carrying a water bottle in the car or have an extra glass of water at the beginning and end of your working day to avoid dehydrated driving.”

The post Dangers of driving dehydrated revealed appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/dangers-driving-dehydrated-revealed/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154164437778

Peugeot 3008 SUV review

The outgoing Peugeot 3008 had a bit of an identity problem. Unsure whether it was an MPV or a crossover, it was certainly awkward looking.

Fast forward to now and Peugeot is in no doubt what the new 3008 is because every reference is followed by ‘SUV’ – and it certainly looks the part.

In one fell swoop, Peugeot’s designers have created one of the most distinctive cars in its class.

Chunky, well proportioned, aggressive and with one of the most striking back-ends on the market, it’s surely a candidate for rear of the year.

However, it’s not just the new 3008’s dramatic exterior that stands out – inside there’s a touch of magic.

As standard, the car boasts Peugeot’s i-Cockpit which features an 8-inch touchscreen in the centre console AND a 12.3-inch driver’s ‘heads-up” instrument panel.

I-Cockpit isn’t just eye candy either – it’s a stylish, futuristic infotainment system boasting fluid, colourful graphics in a cabin that’s cool and individual.

A lot of thought has gone into the system too. For instance, the 8-inch screen can be navigated completely by touch, but Peugeot’s also realised that fumbling around on the move isn’t always ideal, so there’s also a bank of shortcut buttons directly below, giving direct access to the sat nav and phone, for instance.

Just like other recent Peugeots, the 3008 now features a small steering wheel, though this one has flat edges at the top and bottom. Apparently this is for “better grip”, though it probably also helps give a clear view of the 12.3 instrument panel housed inside a set-back binnacle.

The ‘heads-up’ unit can be fully configured by turning and clicking the left knob on the steering wheel, allowing the view to focus on navigation or dials, for instance.

As an optional extra, it’s also possible to further enhance the driving experience with i-Cockpit Amplify with treats the senses to everything from ambient lighting options to aromas via a fragrance diffuser.

In a nutshell, the cabin is a state-of-the-art, spacious, comfortable place to be with a solid, up-market feel.

With a longer wheelbase and an overall length which is just 80mm longer than the current model, while rear occupants now have an additional 24mm legroom, 4mm elbow room and 36mm headroom.

Luggage space has also improved with a capacity of 520 litres (90 litres bigger than the outgoing model) or 1,670 litres with the rear seats down.

The new 3008 comes with Peugeot’s admirable range of fuel efficient petrol and diesel engines, including the 1.2-litre PureTech 130 petrol with CO2 emissions of just 115g/km, plus a larger 1.6-litre unit.

The diesel engines available include a 100PS 1.6-litre BlueHDi, capable of 70.6mpg with CO2 emissions of just 103g/km and a potent 180PS 2.0-litre for the flagship 3008 GT.

The 3008 SUV range starts at £21,795, rising to £32,995. Sadly no petrol versions were available to test, though the 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol unit works a treat in others cars I’ve driven across the Peugeot/Citroen/DS ranges.

My choice of engine, giving a decent blend of economy and performance, would be the 120PS 1.6-litre diesel, which is also likely to be the biggest seller. Taking 11.2 seconds to reach 62mph, it’s capable of 70.6mpg with CO2 emissions of 104g/km, making road tax just £20 a year under the current system.

There are four trim levels (Active, Allure, GT Line and GT) and each one unlocks more goodies, but Allure is enough for most. That said, I’d definitely opt for the panoramic sunroof and Adaptive Cruise Control.

If you live somewhere with more challenging driving conditions, then choose Advanced Grip Control. The 3008 doesn’t come with a four-wheel-drive option, but Grip Control improves traction on snow, mud and sand, while Hill Assist Descent Control reduces the risk of slippage.

Frankly, the options list is huge, offering everything from extra personalisation to the latest driver aids, but by exercising a little restraint it’s possible to spec a decent 3008 for closer to £25,000.

Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the engine is a little harsh initially, but soon settles down, and it seems swifter than the figures suggest.

With a commanding driving position and good visibility, the ride is comfortable and there’s well controlled body lean in corners, giving an engaging drive. However, if it’s performance you want, then opt for the GT.

Excellent though it is, the 3008 is in a very competitive sector, up against the recently launched SEAT Ateca and Volkswagen Tiguan, plus the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga and Renault Kadjar.

However, consider what’s available as standard on the 3008 when pricing up – you may be surprised. For instance, as well as the i-Cockpit, lane-departure warning system and autonomous emergency braking is standard throughout the range, helping it on to a maximum 5-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating.

Verdict: The 3008 SUV is a car transformed, continuing the Peugeot renaissance. Not only is it handsome, classy, well-built, practical and safe, but the addition of i-Cockpit makes it a genuine game-changer.

Review: @garethherincx

The post Peugeot 3008 SUV review appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/peugeot-3008-suv-review/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154123936138

Cars can “put off” house buyers

More than a third of Brits would be put off buying or renting a property based on the type of cars parked on the street, according to a new survey.

Car leasing experts UK Carline carried out a survey of 1,023 people to find out what factors influence their opinion of an area and which cars we associate with having good neighbours.

According to the poll, Mercedes-Benz owners make the best neighbours, with 43% saying they would associate the manufacturer with good neighbours.

In fact, it would seem that luxury German cars were generally held in high regard with British people, as Audi and BMW ranked second and third respectively.

Top 5 cars associated with having ‘good neighbours’

1. Mercedes-Benz 43%
2. Audi 41%
3. BMW 40%
4. Jaguar 38%
5. Porsche 30%

However, it’s bad news for Subaru owners, as the Japanese brand [the performance end of the range?] came top of the list as the one Brits would associated with having a bad neighbour.

Top 5 cars associated with having ‘bad neighbours’

1. Subaru 15%
2. Fiat 14%
3. BMW 12%
4. Ford 11%
5. Vauxhall 10%

As well as cars parked on the street, other factors which affected people’s opinions of an area were rubbish bins overflowing on the street (70%) or groups of teenagers hanging around the area (68%).

Jonathan Nolan, General Manager at UK Carline, said: “We think it’s really interesting that so many people make judgements about their neighbours based on the cars they drive.

“Thankfully, since leasing makes prestige brands more affordable, it’s definitely much easier to keep up with the Joneses on your street and raise your home’s curb appeal with a brand new lease car!”

The post Cars can “put off” house buyers appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/cars-can-put-off-house-buyers/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/154123166343

Autonomous cars: cash boom predicted

Driverless cars are on course to generate €17 trillion for the European economy by 2050, according to new research.

Fully ‘autonomous vehicles’ are predicted to be providing fully ‘hands-off’ door-to-door transport on the road within the decade.

Nissan Europe polled 6,000 people in UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and Norway to discover their attitudes to driverless motors.

Freedom to do things other than driving was voted the biggest benefit – no surprise as four out of five confessed to already ‘multi-tasking’ while at the wheel.

Reading books or catching up on news is what most of Europe said they’d do with their extra time in the car, followed by sleeping, doing paperwork and watching TV or films.

The survey also revealed that almost a quarter of those planning to buy a car in five or more years would consider an autonomous car.

Improved mobility for everyone was voted one of the biggest benefits, followed by a reduction in accidents caused by human error and the removal of unsafe or bad drivers from the road.

Fewer car accidents and lower stress levels were rated equally as the top health benefits.

“This independent report highlights that we are in the midst of a social and economic revolution,” said Paul Willcox, Chairman of Nissan Europe.

“It shows that autonomous technology will have a fundamental impact not just on the automotive industry but across European economies and societies and it suggests that leadership within all levels of government is needed.

“At Nissan we believe, for the full benefits of autonomous drive technologies to be realised, governments and municipalities across Europe should review the report’s findings, work hand in hand with the automotive industry, and play a vital role in ushering in this new technological era.”

The report also highlights the key steps that need to be taken by governments and regulators to overcome technological and social challenges of driverless motoring.

The new independent economic analysis shows that autonomous vehicles will start adding 0.15% to Europe’s annual growth rate in the decades to come.

As a result, the European gross domestic product [GDP] will, cumulatively, be over five per cent higher in the year 2050, by which time autonomous vehicles will have contributed a total of €17 trillion to GDP.

“What’s clear from the research is that political decisions makers across Europe need to prioritise autonomous vehicle policies to create a favorable environment that will see this technology flourish,” Willcox added.

“The customers want it, and are starting to see the benefits of an autonomous future, but we need the right legislative environment to enable this exciting new era of mobility to thrive.

“We strongly advocate that policy makers continue to work collaboratively with industry, so that together we can ensure that the many social and economic benefits highlighted today are made a reality in Europe.”

However, the research also revealed that 48% of people said the biggest disadvantage of autonomous cars was the possibility of a malfunction, followed by not having full control of the vehicle and putting taxi drivers out of a job.le and putting taxi drivers out of a job.

The post Autonomous cars: cash boom predicted appeared first on Automotive Blog.

from Automotive Blog http://www.automotiveblog.co.uk/2016/12/autonomous-cars-cash-boom-predicted/
Looking for a dash cam for your vehicle? Check out Dash Cam Buyers Guide: http://dashcambuyersguide.com/

from
http://dashcambuyersguide.tumblr.com/post/153985833938