AutoEngage

In a recent edition of the Car Dealer Podcast, hosts Jon Reay and James Baggott, accompanied by Pete Withers from AutoEngage, delve into a rich assortment of topics vital to the motor trade. From Carwow's financial results to Sytner's remarkable profits, and even an intriguing segment on brain scanning, the episode is brimming with insightful discussions. A pivotal point of conversation was the electric car regulation, rekindled not just by James’ ongoing issues with EV chargers, but also due to the Labour party's commitment to reinstating the 2030 deadline for electric vehicle adoption. Withers shed light on the ramifications of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, highlighting the potential fines for manufacturers missing their targets, and how these costs might trickle down to the dealers. He expressed concern that pushing the deadline back to 2035 could lead to complacency among consumers, potentially making it more challenging for dealers to 'sell more cars...

In recent motor trade news, October witnessed a significant 4.2% drop in used car prices. This is the most substantial decline since 2011, making it the most considerable fall ever recorded for the month by valuation specialists Cap HPI. Interestingly, such monthly declines exceeding 3% have only been reported three times previously. Derren Martin, the esteemed director of valuations at Cap HPI, conveyed this insight in an exclusive interview with Car Dealer. The downturn means an average setback of around £850 per used car. Contrasting this with the previous year's figures, October 2022 saw just a marginal dip of 0.5% in used car prices. While many in the trade may be alarmed at the sudden drop, Martin prefers to view it as a 'significant realignment' rather than a dire 'crash'. He shed further light on the matter, commenting on a notable observation: there's an abundance of cars available now, but a waning demand. "There’s more cars out there and the...

In a recent discussion with LBC host Nick Ferrari, Vertu Motors chief executive Robert Forrester sheds light on the up coming shift shift in the motor trade landscape. Forrester observes that the Ulez expansion has ignited a surprising trend – cars are now heading northward for better deals, reversing the traditional flow. For years, cars fetched higher prices in the south-east compared to Scotland or the north-east due to economic dynamics. Consequently, vehicles tended to gravitate towards the south. However, the Ulez expansion has altered this equation dramatically. People are eager to bid farewell to cars subject to Ulez charges, either trading them in or sending them through auctions. The demand for such vehicles has surged remarkably. Forrester also highlights a pivotal point in this paradigm shift – the remarkable improvements in engine technology over the past 15 years. Modern engines have shed their toxic and polluting image, showcasing their prowess in emissions reducti...

In recent motor trade news, Redgate Lodge, the renowned Used Car Award-winning dealership, has taken a bold step by acquiring a third site in North Shields. This expansion marks a strategic move to cater to a broader clientele by focusing on low-insurance cars. The new venture, known as Redgate Lodge Select, is set to redefine the car-buying experience, offering economical and affordable vehicles valued between £4,000 and £10,000. The acquisition of this freehold site in North Shields reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its offerings. Scott Sibley, the Managing Director, expressed the rarity of such opportunities in the area and wasted no time in securing the property. His vision for this new site is to complement their existing Shiremoor showroom, which specialises in quality used cars priced between £10,000 and £60,000, along with a nearby preparation centre. This expansion aligns perfectly with Redgate Lodge's journey since its inception in 2010. Initially st...

In recent motor trade news, Redgate Lodge, the renowned Used Car Award-winning dealership, has taken a bold step by acquiring a third site in North Shields. This expansion marks a strategic move to cater to a broader clientele by focusing on low-insurance cars. The new venture, known as Redgate Lodge Select, is set to redefine the car-buying experience, offering economical and affordable vehicles valued between £4,000 and £10,000. The acquisition of this freehold site in North Shields reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its offerings. Scott Sibley, the Managing Director, expressed the rarity of such opportunities in the area and wasted no time in securing the property. His vision for this new site is to complement their existing Shiremoor showroom, which specialises in quality used cars priced between £10,000 and £60,000, along with a nearby preparation centre. This expansion aligns perfectly with Redgate Lodge's journey since its inception in 2010. Initially st...

In recent motor trade news, Redgate Lodge, the renowned Used Car Award-winning dealership, has taken a bold step by acquiring a third site in North Shields. This expansion marks a strategic move to cater to a broader clientele by focusing on low-insurance cars. The new venture, known as Redgate Lodge Select, is set to redefine the car-buying experience, offering economical and affordable vehicles valued between £4,000 and £10,000. The acquisition of this freehold site in North Shields reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its offerings. Scott Sibley, the Managing Director, expressed the rarity of such opportunities in the area and wasted no time in securing the property. His vision for this new site is to complement their existing Shiremoor showroom, which specialises in quality used cars priced between £10,000 and £60,000, along with a nearby preparation centre. This expansion aligns perfectly with Redgate Lodge's journey since its inception in 2010. Initially st...

In recent motor trade news, Redgate Lodge, the renowned Used Car Award-winning dealership, has taken a bold step by acquiring a third site in North Shields. This expansion marks a strategic move to cater to a broader clientele by focusing on low-insurance cars. The new venture, known as Redgate Lodge Select, is set to redefine the car-buying experience, offering economical and affordable vehicles valued between £4,000 and £10,000. The acquisition of this freehold site in North Shields reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its offerings. Scott Sibley, the Managing Director, expressed the rarity of such opportunities in the area and wasted no time in securing the property. His vision for this new site is to complement their existing Shiremoor showroom, which specialises in quality used cars priced between £10,000 and £60,000, along with a nearby preparation centre. This expansion aligns perfectly with Redgate Lodge's journey since its inception in 2010. Initially st...