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Showing posts from September, 2023

The Charging Challenge: Scotland's Ambitious Journey to Green Mobility

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In an era where the motor trade is shifting gears towards sustainability, the ongoing car dealer news regarding the electric vehicle infrastructure in Scotland appears rather crucial. Analysis by the Scottish Tories suggests that Scotland might fall significantly behind its climate target of installing 30,000 electric car-charging stations, potentially missing the mark by 12 years. The situation is reported to be highly challenging due to the apparent slow pace of progress. Between October 2022 and August 2023, merely 169 chargers were added by ChargePlace Scotland, a government-owned network, creating worries amongst the Scottish ministers who have been actively pushing for net-zero targets. This slow pace, reportedly typical of the SNP/Green government’s track record on environmental targets, is concerning, particularly when juxtaposed with Rishi Sunak’s net-zero targets and the UK government’s announcement delaying the ban on new petrol and diesel cars until 2035. This alterati

Rural Dealers Thrive as South-East England Discards Non-Compliant Cars: Car Dealer News

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In the world of car dealer news and motor trade news, a surprising trend is emerging as the expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) in London triggers a flood of older vehicles into the market. While this has led to plummeting values and the rejection of non-compliant vehicles by some dealers, specialists in rural parts of the UK are finding themselves in the driver's seat, capitalising on the situation. In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Colin Maconachie, the proprietor of CMC Specialists in Muir of Ord, has found himself at the forefront of this intriguing shift. Nestled nine miles north-west of Inverness, this remote dealership has seen a surge in supply from the south-east of England, including an entire transporter-load of Jeep Grand Cherokees in just two weeks. Maconachie attributes this boon to his strategic purchases from major auction houses. In the Highlands, where the clean mountain air and absence of emission zones contrast with harsh winters, good used 4x4s a

Government's 2030 Petrol and Diesel Car Ban Delay Sparks Mixed Reactions in Motor Trade

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In the latest car dealer news coming straight from the heart of the industry, the government's decision to postpone the 2030 ban on petrol and diesel car sales by five years has created quite a stir, leaving many in the business with what can only be described as 'a headache.' Speaking exclusively to Car Dealer, a diverse group of car dealers, ranging from renowned names like Wheeler Dealer's Mike Brewer to seasoned industry professionals, have weighed in on this hot topic. Their reactions reflect a wide spectrum of opinions, illuminating the challenges and uncertainties faced by the motor trade. Mike Brewer, a familiar face to television viewers and the owner of two used car dealerships, expressed skepticism about the ban ever materialising on schedule. In his words, it's an "impossible deadline," one that he had predicted wouldn't be met years ago. Even as an electric car owner, Brewer confessed to grappling with the electric future on a daily

Cazoo Announces Debt Restructuring Deal to Slash Debt Burden

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In breaking car dealer news and motor trade news , Cazoo has taken a decisive step towards securing its financial stability by confirming a significant debt-for-equity swap agreement with bondholders. The British online used car dealer, which has faced recent financial challenges, officially disclosed this transformative deal on September 20, as reported by cardealermagazine.co.uk . This landmark agreement entails the cancellation of $630 million in convertible notes in exchange for $200 million in fresh senior secured debt and new equity. The outcome of this arrangement is a substantial reduction in Cazoo's debt load, while the maturity profile of its debt remains unaltered. The company anticipates the completion of these transactions by the end of the fourth quarter, pending ratification by shareholders. Cazoo's decision to restructure its debt was prompted by a notification from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) due to its failure to meet certain trading rules. NYSE r

Cazoo's Debt Restructuring Deal Nears Completion Amid Uncertainty

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In a significant development for the automotive world, troubled used car dealer Cazoo seems to have reached an agreement with its bondholders, marking a potential turning point in its journey. The discussions, which have spanned several months, aimed to address concerns regarding the company's $630 million notes and the possibility of repurchasing them if its shares ceased trading on the NYSE. As reported by Car Dealer News and Motor Trade News, Cazoo appears to have successfully navigated its way out of this financial predicament, thanks to a proposed 'restructuring' of its debt. According to Sky News, the final stages of a $630 million debt-for-equity swap are currently underway. This transformative move will elevate US fund Viking Global Investors as Cazoo's largest shareholder, injecting new life into the company's financial structure. This arrangement includes an injection of $200 million in new borrowing facilities, a lifeline that Cazoo urgently required

Oh, Look! Used Electric Car Prices Finally Decide to Rise

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In the riveting world of car dealer news and motor trade news, brace yourselves for a revelation - used electric car prices have miraculously inched up by 0.8 per cent! A momentous occasion indeed, marking the first time in a year that these prices have displayed anything other than a downwards trajectory. According to the data unveiled by Auto Trader for September, used electric vehicles (EVs) are now worth a fraction more than they were just a month ago. However, before we pop the champagne, let's remember that they are still miles away from their glory days of yesteryear. Auto Trader, in its wisdom, has enlightened us with the fact that 'demand is outpacing supply' for these electric wonders. Well, who would've thought? It's almost as if people are starting to catch on to the whole EV thing. Oh, but don't get too carried away. The latest figures reveal that used EVs have experienced an astronomical 21.4 per cent decline in value over the past year in the r

Range Rover Evoque Tops Profit Charts for Used Car Dealers: Latest Motor Trade News

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In the fast-paced world of car dealer news, an interesting revelation has emerged: the Range Rover Evoque has driven its way to the top of the profit ladder for used car dealers. According to data sourced from Dealer Auction's Retail Margin Monitor, these 4x4 favourites have been making dealerships across the UK a pretty penny, raking in an average profit of £4,130 per unit. Notably, this hefty figure narrowly nudged another Land Rover, the Discovery Sport, into a close second place, with an average profit of £4,120. The data hails from Dealer Auction, a platform that brings together trade sales and retail data from Auto Trader, offering a comprehensive overview of the market's performance. By meticulously cross-referencing the selling price of used cars in trade auctions with their retail prices, the platform has unveiled the average profit margins achieved on each model. Remarkably, Land Rover dominated the stage as the top manufacturer in terms of profit margins. The fa

Range Rover Evoque Tops Profit Charts for Used Car Dealers: Latest Motor Trade News

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In the fast-paced world of car dealer news, an interesting revelation has emerged: the Range Rover Evoque has driven its way to the top of the profit ladder for used car dealers. According to data sourced from Dealer Auction's Retail Margin Monitor, these 4x4 favourites have been making dealerships across the UK a pretty penny, raking in an average profit of £4,130 per unit. Notably, this hefty figure narrowly nudged another Land Rover, the Discovery Sport, into a close second place, with an average profit of £4,120. The data hails from Dealer Auction, a platform that brings together trade sales and retail data from Auto Trader, offering a comprehensive overview of the market's performance. By meticulously cross-referencing the selling price of used cars in trade auctions with their retail prices, the platform has unveiled the average profit margins achieved on each model. Remarkably, Land Rover dominated the stage as the top manufacturer in terms of profit margins. The fa

Range Rover Evoque Tops Profit Charts for Used Car Dealers: Latest Motor Trade News

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In the fast-paced world of car dealer news, an interesting revelation has emerged: the Range Rover Evoque has driven its way to the top of the profit ladder for used car dealers. According to data sourced from Dealer Auction's Retail Margin Monitor, these 4x4 favourites have been making dealerships across the UK a pretty penny, raking in an average profit of £4,130 per unit. Notably, this hefty figure narrowly nudged another Land Rover, the Discovery Sport, into a close second place, with an average profit of £4,120. The data hails from Dealer Auction, a platform that brings together trade sales and retail data from Auto Trader, offering a comprehensive overview of the market's performance. By meticulously cross-referencing the selling price of used cars in trade auctions with their retail prices, the platform has unveiled the average profit margins achieved on each model. Remarkably, Land Rover dominated the stage as the top manufacturer in terms of profit margins. The fa

Motorway Sets Record with £261,000 Lamborghini Huracan Sale

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Motorway, the renowned used car marketplace, has made headlines by listing its priciest vehicle ever in its daily sales. The star of the show? A jaw-dropping 2022 Lamborghini Huracan, resplendent in a stunning white finish with a dashing blue trim. Priced at a staggering £261,000, this supercar beauty has merely 5,100 miles on the odometer, making it an irresistible prospect for car enthusiasts. But that's not all; the Lamborghini Huracan comes equipped with a lavish array of features, including opulent black suede seats, an immersive enhanced speaker system, high-performance sports tyres, and an arsenal of internal cameras. The anticipation is palpable, as potential buyers participate in the live bidding war, set to conclude at 3 pm today. Motorway has been riding high, with daily sales volumes exceeding 1,000 vehicles, and this event further underscores its position in the motor trade. The platform has witnessed a surge in high-performance cars, welcoming Ferraris, Rolls Roy

Supercar Dealers Navigate Economic Changes: Car Dealer News in the Motor Trade

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In a world dominated by headlines of rising interest rates, inflation, and the cost-of-living crisis, it's not just the average citizen feeling the impact. Supercharged changes have swept through the world of supercar dealers, reshaping the landscape in ways both challenging and opportunistic. This insightful report, sourced from cardealermagazine.co.uk , delves into the intriguing dynamics affecting high-end car retailers in these uncertain times. Car Dealer Magazine had the privilege of engaging in candid conversations with industry stalwarts – Amari Supercars, Romans International, and Tom Hartley – all of whom have been subjects of their acclaimed "Selling Supercars" video series. These luminaries offer a unique perspective on the shifting tides in the supercar market. At Romans International, Tom Jaconelli, head of buying and marketing, emphasizes the pivotal roles played by Covid and Brexit in the current scenario, particularly regarding new car sales. Two cri

London Car Dealers Encouraged to Aid Ukraine's War Effort by Donating Non-Ulez Compliant Vehicles

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In a heartwarming display of support for Ukraine's war effort, London's car dealers are being called upon to consider an alternative fate for non-Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) compliant used cars. The charitable initiative known as Car4Ukraine is appealing to dealerships to contribute diesel 4x4s or pick-up trucks, which could prove invaluable on the frontline, rather than outright refusing them in part exchange. As reported by Car Dealer, numerous used car dealers in the capital have faced challenges in selling non-Ulez compliant vehicles due to the hefty £12.50 daily charge imposed for driving them within the Ulez. This fee now extends to London's outer boroughs, encompassing areas like Bexley, Bromley, Harrow, and Hillingdon. Richard Lofthouse, a Londoner and Car4Ukraine volunteer, expressed the organisation's mission, saying, "We are actually working on getting the London Mayor to make a tweak to his controversial Ulez scheme to allow the right vehicles

Range Rover Evoque Tops Profit Charts for Used Car Dealers: Latest Motor Trade News

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In the fast-paced world of car dealer news, an interesting revelation has emerged: the Range Rover Evoque has driven its way to the top of the profit ladder for used car dealers. According to data sourced from Dealer Auction's Retail Margin Monitor, these 4x4 favourites have been making dealerships across the UK a pretty penny, raking in an average profit of £4,130 per unit. Notably, this hefty figure narrowly nudged another Land Rover, the Discovery Sport, into a close second place, with an average profit of £4,120. The data hails from Dealer Auction, a platform that brings together trade sales and retail data from Auto Trader, offering a comprehensive overview of the market's performance. By meticulously cross-referencing the selling price of used cars in trade auctions with their retail prices, the platform has unveiled the average profit margins achieved on each model. Remarkably, Land Rover dominated the stage as the top manufacturer in terms of profit margins. The fa

Warning Bells in the Motor Trade: Surge in Mileage Fraud Highlights Need for Vigilance

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In the ever-evolving landscape of the UK motor industry, the latest car dealer news brings to the fore a pressing issue that merits the attention of both dealers and buyers alike. According to recent data analysis conducted by the reputable vehicle history checking company, CarVertical, there seems to be a significant surge in cases involving falsified or incorrect mileage records, particularly with used cars under five years old. This emerging challenge in the motor trade news is something that warrants a meticulous approach to prevent a potential fallout in the market. CarVertical's study revealed a rather alarming statistic - nearly 7 in 100 cars checked over the past year up to September showcased discrepancies between the odometer and recorded mileage, with one in 14 used cars showcasing incorrect details. Nissan leads the pack with a staggering 18.9% of nearly-new vehicles displaying inconsistencies, closely followed by Renault and Peugeot, with discrepancies found in 16.

You Can't Park That There Sir!

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In an extraordinary turn of events, a van driver found himself in quite a pickle amidst the serene yet unforgiving marshes of North Norfolk. This Sunday just gone, the quiet village of Thornham became the setting for a tale that highlights the unpredictable British weather. As the locals would narrate, the driver embarked on what seemed to be a routine visit to an address nestled within the picturesque marshes of the region. However, the village's notorious high tides decided to play a cheeky game of hide and seek, leaving the access road utterly submerged and our driver stranded a mere 100m away from the the shoreline. Being no stranger to the fast-changing moods of the sea, the quick-witted driver managed to steer his van towards a tiny haven adjacent to a barn. Here, he was afforded a temporary reprieve, allowing him a few hours of reflection as the waters played their timeless dance around him. It seems even the seasoned motorists amongst us find themselves at the mercy of

The Lotus Emeya: Setting New Standards in the Luxury Electric Vehicle Segment

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In recent car dealer news that's set to electrify the motor trade news circuit, the distinguished British automobile brand Lotus, based in Norfolk, has given enthusiasts and industry stalwarts a tantalising glimpse into the future of luxury electric vehicles with the unveiling of its brand-new electric saloon car, the Emeya. A reflection of the brand's transformative journey under the guidance of Chinese automotive colossus Geely, the new entrant epitomises the renaissance of Lotus as it metamorphoses into a ‘global luxury and performance brand’. The Emeya, a majestic beacon in the manufacturer's broadening lineup, heralds the continuation of a rich and storied legacy of high-end electric vehicles (EVs). This pioneering move echoes the brand's celebrated history of creating illustrious saloon cars such as the iconic Lotus Cortina, crafted in a historic collaboration with Ford. The present unveiling marks a return to grandeur, an era reminiscent of the cherished Carlt

Substantial Depreciation in Used Electric Vehicle Market Shows Signs of Stabilisation, Reveals Cap HPI

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In recent car dealer news circulating in the UK, a considerable decrease in the valuation of used electric vehicles (EVs) has been documented, albeit with signs pointing to a slowing down of this trend, according to a recent report detailed by cardealermagazine.co.uk . Exclusive insights shared by trade price specialists, Cap HPI, have cast a spotlight on the steep depreciation of certain electric car models over the past year, with some vehicles experiencing a decrease in value by nearly half within a span of just under a year. Vehicles such as the Seat Mii electric have been particularly affected, witnessing a decline of 50.3% since October 2022. Moreover, the recent motor trade news indicates that in monetary terms, the Audi e-tron GT and the Mercedes Benz EQC have faced significant depreciations, dropping by £27,629 and £20,275 respectively. The downturn in used EV prices began around October last year, catalysed by factors including the cost of living crisis, turbulent financ