Release Wire: Motoring

A BMG Vespa scooter travels through London, saving you time and money. Join the cool commuter pack!

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0100

Thinking of saving time & money?

Jump on a scooter and cut your travel time, save a packet on transport, get some shopping done on the way, and move freely…join the cool Vespa commuter pack.
Have you ever wondered just how much cheaper it is to commute on a scooter compared to the alternatives? Here’s the scoop:

Typical route: Fulham Broadway to Piccadilly:

By bus: swipe the Oyster card, but hours in traffic watching Vespa’s scoot past the bus. JOURNEY TIME of 30-60 mins = £2.30 (£1.35 with an oyster card)

By underground: quicker than the no.14 bus, yes…but where’s the fresh air? during peak hours, your Vespa friends will be at home hours before you, freshening up and sorting out their dinner plans!
JOURNEY TIME of 20 mins = £4.30 (£2.30 with an Oyster card)

By taxi: top marks for comfort, 10/10 for sure, but what's the price from W1 to W11, or E2 ?? it can’t become a regular mode of transport in rush hour.
JOURNEY of 30-50 mins = £15 - £25+

By car: anyone’s favourite, but parking per hour £4.40 in W1, so a day’s parking would set you back almost £40. Not cheap, and then there's the congestion of £10 per day.
JOURNEY TIME of 30-60 mins = £1.17 Plus C.Charge and Parking fees

By Vespa: the only waiting time is filling up fuel from £5 to £11, and depending on the tank, it lasts you about 2 weeks travel @ 155 miles per gallon…cheap at the price! Parking in W1 is £1.10 per day, and free in all other boroughs. The Congestion Charge does not apply, and you cruise past the red busses and traffic inching into town.
JOURNEY TIME of 25 mins = £0.35.... and £1.20 to park all day

For more information on Piaggio and Vespa:
BMG Fulham - 96 New Kings Road London SW6 4LU. T: 020 7736 0770
Mon-Sat: 9-6pm / Sun 11-5pm

BMG Richmond - 416 Upper Richmond Road West SW14 7JX. T: 020 8878 8121
Mon-Sat 8.30-6pm / Sun Closed

Twitter: @bmgscooters

FB: BMG Scooters - and keep up with Henry's Daily Diary on our page.

Press info: rmgpress@rmgandco.com

Cool Travel by Vespa from BMG Scooters ]]>

Pay close attention to batteries when taking motorcycles out of storage, advises CTEK

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 12:23:00 +0100

As spring arrives and motorcyclists prepare to get their vehicles back on the road by checking components for safety, CTEK, a global battery protection brand, is reminding bike owners to carefully examine their batteries and undertake multiple-step maintenance charges.

Batteries must be correctly stored when not in use over the winter months; if they are not, it is likely they will become severely discharged, sulphated and stratified. If neglected in this way, the life of the battery will be reduced and the chance of an unexpected breakdown will be increased. Additionally, by not undertaking a proper battery charging routine, for example thinking a ‘trickle’ charger will ensure the battery is in peak condition, further harm could be done by under or overcharging.

If close attention isn’t taken, a battery can easily become irreparable and a replacement will be required.

By completing a number of steps to revive, restore and protect batteries, smart chargers provide necessary battery care during storage and in the face of different challenges presented by the summer months. Even when in regular use, a motorbike battery will not charge to 100 per cent capacity and other electronics, such as the alarm, will cause further strain. The ambient temperature and battery type also affects a charging cycle, but smart battery chargers adapt accordingly so that the optimal charge level is reached, and sustained.

Katariina Stahl, CTEK’s director of sales and marketing, advises: “Many motorbike owners will no doubt be starting to carefully check the components of their vehicles, ready to hit the road in the spring weather, and an examination and overhaul of the battery must be a part of that schedule. Whether the battery has been correctly stored for winter or not, it’s crucial to check a charge can be held and we would advise a multi-step charge is applied so that appropriate repair can be taken, for example to remove any sulphur on the battery’s plates.

“Motorcyclists are renowned for really caring for their bikes and it’s important for them to remember that batteries also need a little love in both winter and summer.”

For more information on CTEK’s range of products, from a boat to a caravan battery charger, please visit www.ctek.com. Follow CTEK @CTEKChargers and like at facebook.com/CTEKBatteryChargers.

Ends

Media contact: Keredy.Andrews@punchcomms.com
01858 411 600 ]]>

HPI Survey Reveals Used Car Buying is a Woman's World

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:51:00 +0100

HPI survey reveals that it’s a woman’s world when it comes to buying a used vehicle
www.hpicheck.com

The latest survey from HPI, the vehicle history check experts, reveals that more men than women feel they didn’t get a good deal when they last bought a used car. 43% of men said that they felt this way, compared to just 35% of women, suggesting that female motorists make better buying decisions.

According to the HPI survey, 51% of women consult a family member or friend who knows something about cars. Unsurprisingly, men are reluctant to ask for advice with just 27% taking along a more knowledgeable companion to protect themselves from making a bad used car purchase. In addition, confirming the motto ‘with age comes wisdom’, older used car buyers appear to be making sensible purchase decisions, with 83% of third-agers not experiencing any hidden problems after they’ve parted with their money.

“The survey suggests that men are more difficult to please, when it comes to used car buying and that they won’t take advice. This could be why men are more likely to think they’ve been had, but it also leaves them vulnerable to fraudsters,” says Nicola Johnson, Consumer Services Manager for HPI. “In contrast, women are eager to take advice and prepare before checking out their options. This clearly helps them make measured decisions and as a result, they are happy with their purchase.”

Geographically, people in Northern Ireland are the most satisfied with their last used car purchase, with a whopping 83% believing they got a good deal, compared to just 49% of buyers in the East Midlands. 50% of those in the North East took a family or friend with them, whilst people in Northern Ireland and Scotland are the least likely to discover a problem after purchase. In contrast, nearly 40% of buyers in the West Midlands discovered problems after a purchase. They also have the highest number of provenance issues with outstanding finance, mileage and paperwork discrepancies.

No matter what gender you are or where you live – used car buying should not be a gamble. The dangers of buying a used car are a worry for any motorist, with many thousands of vehicles on Britain’s roads today that have been stolen, written-off or have finance outstanding on them. An HPI Check offers innocent buyers a vital level of protection, reducing the dangers by providing the key information about a vehicle’s history. The HPI Check also includes a mileage check as standard, using its National Mileage Register database, which holds more than 150 million mileage records, protecting buyers from the risk of buying a clocked vehicle worth a lot less than it appears.

Penny Mallory, National Ladies Rally Champion and TV Presenter who knows a thing or two about car buying, is working with HPI to throw the spotlight on the very real dangers of used car buying, “In a very risky marketplace, protecting the used car buyer is absolutely crucial. I had first-hand experience of the potential problems when filming for Used Car Roadshow. I often attend auctions for the programme, and at one particular sale came across a vehicle that caught my eye. However I wanted to know more about its past before I went ahead.

“Being at an auction I needed to move quickly, so called HPI to perform a check over the phone, which uncovered outstanding finance on the vehicle. Although this didn’t necessarily suggest fraud, I needed to go with my gut instinct, and based on the information from HPI I decided it just wasn’t worth the risk. I urge anyone buying a used car to play it safe and conduct an HPI Check before purchase. For less than the price of car mats, you can buy peace of mind and save yourself thousands of pounds.”

In addition, the HPI Check confirms the vehicle’s identity and registered keepers. And for added peace of mind, the HPI Check also protects buyers with the HPI Guarantee, which provides up to £40,000* financial reimbursement in the event of the car not being everything it seems – including a clone.

“Shockingly, 30% of the used car buyers we surveyed did no checks whatsoever when buying a used car. Basic checks, including cross referencing paperwork, such as the MOT and the V5 to ensure vehicle and owner details tally, can be enough to cause alarm bells to ring,” concludes Nicola Johnson. “And only 21% of the people we surveyed said they specifically pay by cheque or bank transfer to protect themselves. Never pay in cash alone as you will have no proof of purchase should you be caught out by a fraudster.”

For further information visit www.hpicheck.com or call 0845 300 8905
Follow us on Twitter @ www.twitter.com/hpicheck

Notes to Editors
Dominic Dennis, Madeleine Roles or Justine Hoadley
HSL
Email: hpiteam@harrisonsadler.com
Tel: 0208 977 9132

About HPI:

Originally established in 1938, HPI Limited is a primary source of vehicle information for the UK motor industry and motoring consumer which, since December 2008, has been owned by Solera Holdings, Inc. Solera Holdings, Inc. is an integrated group of leading automotive claims solutions companies. Founded in January 2005 by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Tony Aquila, Solera has expanded its geographic reach and now serves more than 55,000 business customers in over 50 countries across six continents.

HPI encompasses both the HPI database of all UK road registered vehicle descriptions and histories, and the National Mileage Register (NMR) which holds in excess of 150 million mileage readings.

Together, HPI and NMR represent the UK's largest vehicle information source, combining and interpreting data from government agencies, industry bodies, private organisations, the police and the general public. Registering with HPI helps companies to protect their financial interests in motor vehicles and a wide range of other mobile assets. HPI Checks give purchasers instant confirmation of whether vehicles are correctly described, known to be subject to outstanding finance or serious accident damage, or recorded as stolen or "clocked".

'HPI' and the HPI logo are registered trademarks of HPI Limited.
(1) All prices include VAT and are correct as of 4th January 2013
(2) Mileage Data is not covered by The HPI Guarantee
*(3) The HPI Guarantee is subject to terms and conditions and the level of cover varies depending on the HPI Check conducted. The £40,000 cover is available with the HPI Premium Check. ]]>

Autoglass launches new aid to rain-drenched breakdowns

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 09:45:00 +0100

Autoglass has just announced the introduction of its new bespoke wet weather solution – an extendable canopy fixed to its mobile technician’s vans, known as the Vanbrella®.

Britain experiences rainy weather approximately 145 days of the year and this can adversely affect vehicle glass repair and replacement services. For example, the time needed for the chip repair healing process (usually 30 minutes) or that needed to bond a replacement glass (usually 1 hour) may significantly increase in wet conditions and this could compromise the quality of the result.

90 per cent of the work carried out by Autoglass is mobile so the appointments of an estimated 80,000 customers each year are impacted by weather conditions. In such circumstances Autoglass previously offered customers the options of either taking their car into a branch or booking a later appointment. However, the new Vanbrella® provides an alternative solution meaning the company can respond quickly to its customer’s needs.

Matthew Mycock, Managing Director of Autoglass said: "We are always looking for new ways to offer our customers better service and whilst we can’t control the weather, we can make sure our experts offer a full service come rain or shine. Trials have been highly successful and the feedback from customers and technicians alike has been extremely positive. The Vanbrella® is just one of the new innovations we are introducing this year to ensure our service is seamless on the road, and within our service centres."

Designed and patented by the in-house technical research department at Autoglass, the canopy solution will be fitted to 400 vans by the end of this year, with the initial roll out of 200 Vanbrellas® hitting the roads by May.

Further adverse weather is predicted throughout April and to help keep motorists safe on the road, technicians at Autoglass will be on call across the country with their Vanbrellas®.

About Autoglass:
Autoglass is the UK’s leading vehicle glass repair and replacement service, with over 80 branches and 1100 mobile technicians. For details of your nearest centre call 0800 36 36 36 or visit http://www.autoglass.co.uk

Autoglass holds certifications to the quality, health and safety, and environmental international standards - ISO 9001, OHSAS 18001, and ISO 14001 - at all of its sites. This demonstrates that the company operates to externally verified standards and is committed to compliance and continuous improvement in these areas.

PR Contact:
Samantha Day-Tillotson
Autoglass Public Relations Manager
Belron UK Limited
1 Priory Business Park
Cardington
Bedford
MK44 3US
01234 279592
www.autoglass.co.uk ]]>

Embargoed for publication until 00.01 Saturday 13th April 2013 - Lack of stock continues to fuel used car values

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 00:01:00 +0100

NEWS RELEASE

Embargoed for publication until 00.01 Saturday 13th April 2013

Lack of stock continues to fuel used car values
British Car Auctions used car data for March 2013 shows year-on-year values up sharply

www.bca.co.uk

The latest Used Car report from leading vehicle auction company, British Car Auctions (BCA) shows that year-on-year values were up by over 17% in March, although prices declined marginally - by 0.7% - when compared to February 2013. For the fourth month running, average used car values remained at £7,000 or more as the market continued to be short of retail quality stock.

Across the board used cars averaged £7,000 last month, down by £56 compared to February but significantly ahead of March 2012 by £1,026 (17.1%). March 2013 recorded the fourth highest average monthly value since BCA’s reporting began in 2005. However, post-Easter, BCA has seen buyer demand weaken with conversion rates falling in the first week of April, suggesting there will be some pressure on values in the weeks ahead.

Simon Henstock, BCA’s UK Operations Director commented: “Although average values continue at near record levels, prices are high largely as a result of the constricted supply rather than strong demand. We also saw pressure on conversion rates in March, with a notable reluctance for trade buyers to bid as strongly on poorly presented vehicles. Values for cars requiring any significant degree of cosmetic work were hit the hardest. In contrast, values for well-presented retail quality vehicles continue at often exceptional levels, outperforming price guide expectations by a considerable margin.

“As we are now in the post-Easter period, the dynamics of the market are changing. Typically this time of year brings a softening in demand combined with an upswing in supply, so we expect to see continuing pressure on values and conversion rates in the weeks ahead.”

In addition if you'd like graphics to accompany the story please find below contact details.

Published by BCA All material © BCA 2005-2013

Please click on the link below to view accompanying photography
March Pulse Cars

For further information please contact Madeleine Roles, Wendy Harrison or Louise Fowler at HSL on 020 8977 9132 maddy@harrisonsadler.com
Or
BCA Public Relations Department, Blackbushe Airport, Blackwater, Camberley, Surrey GU17 9LG
Tel: 01252 878555 Fax: 01252 743447 Email: tnaylor@bca-group.com ]]>

Turning Back the Years Will Only End in Tears

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:22:00 +0100

HPI partners with the RAC to warn motorists of the wear and tear dangers of buying a ‘clocked’ car
www.hpicheck.com

“Clocking” – otherwise known as illegitimately adjusting a vehicle’s mileage - has been practiced by dodgy used car sellers for many years as a means to make extra money. However vehicle information expert, HPI, is warning that the risks from buying a clocked car could hurt consumers in more places than just their wallet.

Nicola Johnson, Consumer Services Manager for HPI explains, “Clocking is used by fraudsters to boost the sale price of a vehicle, but the act of clocking also hides the fact that the car is likely to have done considerably more miles than the driver realises. If vital components are excessively worn and/or not replaced as recommended by the manufacturer, that vehicle could be a real danger to the driver and other road users.”

HPI’s concerns are echoed by vehicle inspection experts at the RAC. “Vehicles displaying untrue mileages carry an increased risk of costly defects being present. With use comes wear, and therefore higher mileages are a likely indication of when maintenance costs could start to rise,” comments Michael Hill, Vehicle Inspections Manager for the RAC.

Despite some obvious tell-tale signs of general wear and tear, a higher mileage vehicle may look in reasonable condition; however, behind the bodywork there may be some less obvious wear that isn’t reflected by the reported mileage. An incorrectly reported mileage could also lead a new owner into believing that their scheduled maintenance is up-to-date, missing out on vital service work such as a timing belt change that may lead to catastrophic engine failure.”

An RAC Inspection offers used car buyers a thorough vehicle examination that will help highlight unexplained gaps or leaps in maintenance records, a potential sign of clocking or a hidden history. And whilst a vehicle examination cannot authenticate recorded vehicle mileages, the RAC Inspection does provide used car buyers with an independent condition report on vehicle performance, offering added peace of mind and protection against the threat of clocking. Prices start from £135 and details can be found at www.rac.co.uk.

This latest warning comes as the RAC backs HPI’s campaign to hit back against legitimate ‘clockers’ in the form of Mileage Correction firms with the launch of its DirectGov e-Petition. The OFT estimates there are over 70 mileage correction firms operating in Britain by exploiting a legal loophole. HPI calls upon motorists to sign its e-Petition to force a change in the law and ban these firms.

David Bizley, RAC’s Technical Director says, “This is an important campaign which will help raise awareness of this shady practice which can cost unsuspecting motorists thousands of pounds. We urge drivers to sign the e-Petition and to be on their guard when looking to purchase a second hand car. It’s always wise to get an independent vehicle inspection done and conduct a vehicle history check for added peace of mind.”

“I’m more than happy to join HPI’s campaign and sign their e-petition calling on the government to clamp down on mileage correction firms,” confirms John Leech, MP. “I find it astonishing that tampering with a car in this way is not actually illegal. The practice is said to cause Greater Manchester motorists to be swindled out of an estimated £22m per year, and nationally car clocking costs consumers up to £580m a year according to the Office of Fair Trading. I have long argued that this should be made illegal having previously raised this with Government Ministers and called on the Transport Select Committee to hold an enquiry into this immoral practice.”

Johnson concludes, “The dangers associated with a vehicle that has done considerably more miles than the owner realises are all too clear. And even if these issues are identified in time to prevent danger, the cost of servicing the car to bring it up to a maintainable standard could run into the thousands. However, a mileage and vehicle history check, as well as a full vehicle inspection can help protect consumers from buying a vehicle that’s hiding its true age behind a low mileage and a bargain price tag.”

To sign-up to the HPI e-Petition which calls upon Government to put a stop to
Mileage Correction Firms simply visit www.hpicheck.com
It will only take a few moments and will require people to confidentially validate their details to authenticate their support

END
April 2013

For further information visit www.hpicheck.com or call 0845 300 8905
Follow us on Twitter @ www.twitter.com/hpicheck

Notes to Editors:

Dominic Dennis, Madeleine Roles or Justine Hoadley
HSL
Email: hpiteam@harrisonsadler.com
Tel: 0208 977 9132

About HPI:

Originally established in 1938, HPI Limited is a primary source of vehicle information for the UK motor industry and motoring consumer which, since December 2008, has been owned by Solera Holdings, Inc. Solera Holdings, Inc. is an integrated group of leading automotive claims solutions companies. Founded in January 2005 by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Tony Aquila, Solera has expanded its geographic reach and now serves more than 55,000 business customers in over 50 countries across six continents.

HPI encompasses both the HPI database of all UK road registered vehicle descriptions and histories, and the National Mileage Register (NMR) which holds in excess of 150 million mileage readings.

Together, HPI and NMR represent the UK's largest vehicle information source, combining and interpreting data from government agencies, industry bodies, private organisations, the police and the general public. Registering with HPI helps companies to protect their financial interests in motor vehicles and a wide range of other mobile assets. HPI Checks give purchasers instant confirmation of whether vehicles are correctly described, known to be subject to outstanding finance or serious accident damage, or recorded as stolen or "clocked".

'HPI' and the HPI logo are registered trademarks of HPI Limited.
(1) All prices include VAT and are correct as of 4th January 2013
(2) Mileage Data is not covered by The HPI Guarantee
*(3) The HPI Guarantee is subject to terms and conditions ]]>

Speedy Route launches free optimizing route planning website

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:20:00 +0100

Speedy Route has launched a new free multi-location optimizing route planning website, available at Speedy Route

Offering world-wide coverage due to the integration of Google Directions, Speedy Route is a lightning fast solution to the well-known 'Travelling Salesman Problem'. Unlike many other optimizing route planners which are expensive, slow, and difficult to use, Speedy Route is the go-to website for delivery drivers, sales people on the road, or anyone who needs to make multiple stops by the best, quickest, and shortest route possible.

Speedy Route is the go-to website for anyone who needs to visit multiple locations in the best, quickest, and shortest route possible

Please direct any enquiries to info@speedyroute.co.uk, or contact Magic Hat Solutions Ltd on 01226 304470. ]]>

CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE MONTREUX TO HOST AND SPONSOR CLASSIC VINTAGE ROLLS ROYCE RALLY

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:00:00 +0100

Clinique La Prairie, the world renowned medical clinic and spa in Montreux, is to support and sponsor an exceptional Rolls Royce motor-car rally and gala dinner to be held in the region over the weekend of 20-21 April which will bring together a collection of the finest, rarest and grandest of Rolls-Royce motor-cars ever produced.

The main event which takes place between Lausanne and Vevey, is being organised by the (Swiss section) of the Rolls- Royce Enthusiasts Club, and will commence in the Place General Henri Guisan in Lausanne at 9am on the morning of Saturday 20, April 2013. Spectators will have the opportunity to view the cars at close quarters, and to give a cheering send off to the owners and drivers as they head alongside Lake Geneva in a grand procession en route to Clarens-Montreux to Clinique La Prairie’s property.

Clinique La Prairie will host a Pit-Stop gathering for all the participants of the Rally from 11am until 1:30pm when they will have the opportunity to experience a little Clinique La Prairie magic at a special Swiss Excellence lunch.

On the Saturday evening the Beau Rivage Palace, Lausanne, will host a gala dinner attended by all the drivers and their partners, where awards will be presented by individual sponsors. As is customary at Concours events, cars will receive awards based on style, design and best in class.

Various other events will be held during the Rolls Royce rally, and further information can be obtained at
Concourse Lausanne Visit Clinique la Prairie

-ENDS-

About Clinique La Prairie
Clinique La Prairie is a worldwide pioneer in the field of medical spas and the only one in the region. From face care treatments to bespoke post-operation treatments, it provides a wide range of treatments, using the latest technologies, expert medical consultation and a highly experienced and knowledgeable team of aestheticians. The clinic’s main aim is to remain at the forefront of medical advances and innovative spa treatments. This it will do by continuing to provide clients with the most exclusive and individual programs and care, and by offering a sense of unforgettable wellbeing as well as a healthy and rewarding experience.

For further information, or to attend event or arrange a general press visit, please contact:
Anna Nicholas/Maggie Tyler
anicholas@ana-communications.com /maggie@wtg3.co.uk
T +44 07774 811 633 or +34 660384744|www.laprairie.ch ]]>

MotorTrades.co.uk commence their initial radio Advertising campaign with talkSPORT

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:40:00 +0100

The UK’s fastest-growing online motoring directory Motortrades.co.uk kicked-off its first six-week radio advertising campaign on talkSPORT on Monday evening with the first advertisements running after 19:00. The business is already seeing notable traffic growth to the directory as a result of the radio exposure and expects a significant impact over the coming weeks.

MotorTrades PR and Marketing Manager Stuart Hardy said: “The campaign is great news for the MotorTrades brand and for our customers. It shows how far we've come since we launched in 2007. The campaign will reach over 2.5 million people over six weeks, which means that we should see a significant rise in site traffic which in turn drives more business to our advertisers. It’s a win-win situation.”

With in excess of 90 twenty second advertisements spread over the initial six week campaign, MotorTrades aims to capitalise by influencing the stations enthusiastic and engaged 81% male audience, 78% of which are between 25 and 64 years. The launch campaign covers London and the Home Counties with a reach of around 2.5 million over the six week campaign.

MotorTrades currently covers England and Wales and plans to broadcast their campaign around talkSPORT’s four corresponding regions over a 24 week period.

He added: “Motortrades.co.uk continues to make significant progress since rebranding last December. This is another exciting advance towards developing MotorTrades into a nationally recognised brand. talkSPORT’s audience has a lot in common with our own which makes it an obvious choice for our first dip into radio advertising”

The campaign will bring Motortrades.co.uk to the attention of sports fans at a very busy period in the sporting calendar. Football see's the climax of the Premier League and Championship seasons, The Champions League, the FA Cup Final and The Grand National, along with the start of the Formula 1 season and the English County Cricket season, the company believes spring represents the best time for strategic exposure to a huge and responsive audience of avid sports fans.

The company’s online e-magazine Motortradesinsight.co.uk recently published exclusive interviews with both WRC Super 2000 World Rally Champion Craig Breen and Norwegian rally driver Andreas Mikkelsen who makes his debut for Volkswagen Motorsport in the World Rally Championship on Thursday, April 11.

Motortrades.co.uk was launched in 2007 to help independent motoring businesses connect with and compete for new customers. During 2012 the site attracted nearly 1.6 million unique visitors, viewing over 7 million pages. The website is currently one of the fastest growing online motoring directories in the UK.

Businesses in the motoring sector can benefit from increased exposure as a result of the radio campaign by calling the MotorTrades on 0845 468 2000 quoting ‘INSIGHT’ for an exclusive offer.

Ends …………………………………………………………………………………………..

Notes for Editors:

Attached: Logos – talkSPORT, MotorTrades.co.uk, Motortrades Insight

talkSPORT is the world’s biggest sports radio station and has over 3 million listeners per week in the UK alone. The station broadcasts live coverage of the Barclays Premier League, the FA Cup, England football internationals, the Capital One Cup, Aviva Premiership Rugby and is the exclusive UK national radio broadcaster of the 2013 British and Irish Lions rugby tour to Australia. talkSPORT is available on 1089/1053AM, on digital radio, on mobile and online at talkSPORT.co.uk.

Motortrades.co.uk established in 2007 and is one of the country’s foremost online resources for the motoring industry. In 2012 the directory was visited by over 1.6 million unique users viewing over 7 million pages. The site was launched on a completely new platform in December which coincided with a restructure of the sites ownership and a focused growth strategy.

Motortrades Insight.co.uk is an online motoring magazine covering a wide spectrum of the UK and European automotive industry. The site was launched in 2012 and appeals to a very broad interest range covering the general motorist, motoring enthusiasts and the motor-trade itself. The site also includes information about new and used car buying, motorsport, motorcycles, insurance, finance and more.

Motortrades.co.uk and Motortradesinsight.co.uk are based in Brentwood, Essex and are part of a group of businesses providing information and directory services on the world wide web.

For more information please contact:

Stuart Hardy
Motortrades Insight
stuart.hardy@motortrades.co.uk
0845 468 2000 ]]>

Brighton & Hove - the largest car club operation in England, outside of London

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 11:40:00 +0100

According to City Car Club, Brighton & Hove is now the capital of modern thinking. Having increased their membership base within the region to over 3000 people (a massive 24% year on year increase), it seems that more and more of us are giving up our beloved cars in favour of a more economical and sustainable option.

Due to high demand for the car sharing scheme, City Car Club have recently increased the size of their fleet by 38% and now boast an impressive 72 vehicles. Further expansion within the Brighton & Hove area is planned throughout the year; by 2014 Brighton will become the home to over 100 City Car Club vehicles with thanks in no small part to Brighton and Hove City Council.

Amongst these new vehicles will be the new Toyota Auris Tourer – the greenest estate car available with CO2 emissions of just 87g/km, perfect for families and big car enthusiasts alike. A more exciting prospect is the introduction of the new Toyota Aygo ICE, available to rent from as little as £4.95 an hour, making it the most cost effective city car – perfect for the budget conscious.

Carplus - the regulatory body for UK car clubs state that up to £3,500 a year can be saved by switching from car ownership to this pay as you go model, not a small sum in anyone’s books. As well as the obvious financial savings, the cars come with their own allocated parking spaces mostly in residential areas. The car club operator looks after all of the maintenance and cleaning of the cars, saving members all the hassles and time commitments that come with traditional car ownership. A recent survey conducted by Carplus has found that 97% of car club users were thrilled with the car club scheme.

People are very attached to their cars - after all the car is on average the second biggest purchase you will make in your life, car ownership has always been ‘normal’. However, excluding the daily commute (which can often be done via public transport) you would be surprised how little people actually use their car. Yet people continue to pay thousands of pounds a year running and maintaining their vehicles to just sit dormant on the driveway the majority of the time.

However there seems to be a shift in mind-sets (particularly within the Brighton and Hove areas) in favour of a more economical and environmentally sustainable option. Imagine never having to pay for break down cover, fuel, repairs, servicing, MOT’s, or excessive insurance premiums ever again - As well as knowing you are doing something nice for the planet.

According to Norman Baker ,Transport Minister “Each car club vehicle can result in taking 24 private vehicles off the road and the low carbon vehicles used typically emit approximately 33% less CO2 than the average car. This is why we are supporting the continued growth of car clubs across the country”.

City Car Club provides its members with self- service, hourly vehicle rental 24/7/365 as a convenient and cost effective alternative to ownership. 600+ cars and vans (set to increase by 15% in 2013) are located in convenient locations across Manchester and 14 cities UK wide including Leeds, Edinburgh and London. Vehicles are booked online or by phone, from as little as 30 minutes and accessed using smart-enabled membership cards.

James Finlayson, City Car Club’s MD and manager of the London fleet commented: “we are continuing our expansion within Brighton as the people there are becoming more and more responsive to the scheme, and why not, it’s helping them reduce costs, congestion and emissions whilst retaining convenient access to a car.”

-END-

For more information or to request an interview with Brighton Fleet Manager, James Finlayson, contact: City Car Club, on 0113 394 3534 or email marketing@citycarclub.co.uk

Notes to Editors:

- City Car Club cars are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be booked by the hour, day or as long as members want. The cars are conveniently located in designated parking bays near to where members live and work and can be booked online or by phone in advance, or at the last minute.

- City Car Club take care of insurance, tax, servicing, parking permits and even cleaning, so all members need to worry about is enjoying their journey.

- City Car Club operates a fleet of over 600 vehicles in 14 cities across the UK (click here to view all locations).

- City Cars are available to hire from just £4.95per hour or £1.66 per hour if booked for 24 hours (click here to view our ‘What does it cost?’ page)

- Annual membership is just £60 (£30 for family or partners), and discounts are available for business users. Membership includes: fully comprehensive insurance, access to over 600 cars throughout the UK, 24/7 helpline support and free online booking.
- Members who use the cars more regularly can take up the Discount Card option, which at £15/month gives a 20% discount on all rental rates.

- And City Car Club is good for the environment. Independent research by Carplus shows that each City Car replaces 24 privately owned cars on average and generally our members cut down on unnecessary car journeys by 35% after they join.

- City Car Club saves 12,246 tonnes of CO2 emissions every year, the equivalent of 4,621 flights to Australia.

- See www.citycarclub.co.uk for more information and download our press pack from the Media Lounge.

- 97% out of 5584 respondents said their satisfaction level was either ‘good’ or ‘very good’.( http://www.carplus.org.uk/resources/reports/annual-survey-of...) ]]>

IT’S PAYBACK TIME AS CAROLE NASH OFFERS €50 SWITCH REWARD

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:20:00 +0100

Motorcyclists who switch to bike insurance specialist Carole Nash can now claim a €50 cashback as part of a special offer being launched to new customers.

The company has launched a new initiative designed to entice bikers to test the quality and price of the cover. The cashback offer is on top of the existing benefits offered by Carole Nash, which include the forensic coding security system, Carole Nash DNA+, which was launched at March’s Irish Bike & Scooter Show. Itself worth €35, Carole Nash DNA+ is now provided free alongside other standard policy benefits such as Irish and European accident and breakdown recovery, homestart and legal protection.

The offer is open to bikers with at least one year’s no claims discount (secured within the past 24 months) who take out a new bike policy through Carole Nash. The €50 reward will be paid directly by cheque to the policyholder three months after a policy has been taken out or when the final instalment for an annual premium has been received.

To receive this offer bikers need quote reference CB50 when calling 1800 298 550 to arrange their cover. But they’re being warned to act quickly as the chequebook isn’t going to be waved forever!

As a further incentive Carole Nash is also entering anyone who simply gets a bike quote into its Ultimate Biking Giveaway prize draw. This will see one lucky rider claiming biking booty worth up to €25,000, including a Suzuki GSR 750, European MotoGP or SBK holiday for two, loads of biking gear, magazines and, for those days when the leathers are hung up, a nippy Suzuki Alto SR car. Carole Nash will be automatically entering all current policyholders into the prize draw.

So what are you waiting for? Pick up the phone and call Carole Nash today – for the sake of a quick call you could walk away with a €25,000 stash, a great value bike policy and get some cash back to boot!

Ends

Editor’s Note:

1. For full terms and conditions of the €50 cashback offer visit carolenash.ie/switchforcashback-termsandconditions. For more details on Carole Nash DNA+ visit carolenash.ie/dna. For more details on the Ultimate Biking Giveaway visit carolenash.ie/ultimate-biking-giveaway.
2. Carole Nash claims an estimated share of around 50% of Ireland’s motorcycle insurance and is a leading player in the country’s classic car insurance sector. The company was also ranked was ranked as the UK’s 36th biggest UK insurance broker August 2012 by Insurance Times magazine. It employs over 300 staff in the UK and Dublin and provides insurance for some 300,000 classic, vintage, modern, custom and off road motorcycles. Carole Nash Insurance Consultants is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Follow us on Facebook click here.
Tweet with us Twitter click here.

Issued on behalf of:
Carole Nash Insurance Consultants,
1 Grants Row, Lr.
Mount Street,
Dublin 2
Carole Nash Insurance Consultants,
Trafalgar House,
Manchester Road,
Altrincham,
WA14 1NU

Contact: Rebecca Donohue T: +44 (0)161 927 2462
Email: rebeccadonohue@carolenash.com

By: Carole Nash PR

Pure Marketing Communications. +44 (0)161 280 1433/ (0)7855 345108
Email andyl@puremarketingcommunications.co.uk or pressoffice@carolenash.com ]]>

AlcoDigital launch Fingertip Alcohol Scanner at CV Show Tomorrow

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 09:01:00 +0100

The World’s only finger touch system to detect alcohol levels is being launched in the UK on the AlcoDigital stand at the Commercial Vehicle show from April 9th – 11th.

The AlcoSense TruTouch uses pioneering technology which has been shown to be 96% accurate and capable of determining a persons’ level of intoxication in seconds - with just a touch of the finger.

The AlcoSense TruTouch uses a near-infrared light to measure blood alcohol content in the skin via contact with an optical pad. The light reflected back by the skin is then analysed to determine alcohol concentration in the tissue and to verify the identity of the user and can be linked to entrances or turnstiles making supervision unnecessary.

Random testing can dissuade some from drinking the night before work, but real abusers will often just hope they don’t get caught. Screening every person, every day up to now has been costly and impractical but with the TruTouch it is now a reality.

Suzannah Robin, Sales Director of AlcoDigital who are exhibiting the device at this years’ CV Show tomorrow says “Alcohol abuse is not a problem restricted to transport. Screening every employee, every day can produce a step-change in underlying behaviour. Vehicle interlocks can ensure drivers are tested on a daily basis, but TruTouch introduces the same safety culture to every environment.”

The AlcoSense TruTouch is ideal for use in sectors such as construction, mining, heavy industry – even banking! Can a top investment bank afford to have traders working whilst ‘under the influence’? While not a UK certified device, AlcoDigital have combined the TruTouch with their new Lab-in-a-Bag, which is approved in the UK for Police use and provides results for both Drugs and Alcohol that can be defended in court if necessary.

“We’ve built a reputation for innovative products in this sector” says Suzannah, “and along with the new AlcoSafe KeySafe, we are excited to launch this ground-breaking product on our stand. It is cutting-edge technology for Alcohol Testing so we are looking forward to the public’s response."

Those wanting further information on TruTouch, AlcoSafe, Lab-in-a-Bag and the full range of AlcoDigital products should contact Suzannah on 0208 454 7372 or email suzannah@alcodigital.co.uk

PERSONAL INVITATION
Journalists who would like a personal demonstration at the show should contact us directly or visit us at the show on stand 4E100.

NOTES TO EDITORS -About AlcoDigital Limited
AlcoDigital has been trading since 2003 and are Drug and Alcohol testing specialists.

They are Draegers’ UK Main Dealer for Home Office Approved Breathalysers & Drug Testers and sole suppliers for Q3i, the USA’s largest manufacturer - as well as UK importers for Contralco (manufacturer of the NF approved French Breathalyser kits). They also distribute several own-brand products including the new AlcoSafe (Breathalyser controlled Keysafe), Drivealyzer Interlocks and the award-winning AlcoDigital 3000 Breathalyser.

CONTACT
Email suzannah@alcodigital.co.uk
Web www.AlcoDigital.co.uk/trutouch
Tel 0208 454 7372
fax 0800 007 3109 ]]>

Navevo and Thales Alenia Space develop world’s first barrier-free navigation system for wheelchair users

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:37:00 +0100

Innovative in-car and personal navigation set to streamline travel
for the mobility impaired

Letchworth, England, 4th April 2013: Navevo, the UK’s leading navigation software specialists, has partnered with Thales Alenia Space, the European leader in satellite systems and a major player in orbital infrastructures, to develop the world’s first barrier-free navigation system, offering wheelchair users a safe and reliable way of traversing both road and pedestrian routes to reach their destination. Backed by Gold Medallist Paralympian Peter Norfolk, Navevo looks set to make a real impact on personal navigation for those with motor impairment, and offers a wide range of features that take it far beyond traditional sat nav devices.

Navevo’s partnership with Thales Alenia Space, one of the primary builders of Galileo (Europe’s Global Navigation Satellite System), allows it to offer the most accurate personal navigation system available with positional accuracy of less than one meter (utilising correction data from the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service “EGNOS” , developed by Thales Alenia Space), enabling people with motor impairment to quickly and safely navigate while avoiding obstacles such as stairs, ramps and grassed areas. The advanced routing engine is fully customisable to allow users to select obstacles to avoid, as well allowing them to stick to well-lit streets and roads that are paved. It also includes a comprehensive library of POIs (Points Of Interest) using data from DisabledGo, a leading disability organisation that provides access guides to a wide range of venues in the UK, incorporating address and contact details alongside easy to read symbols and key access review data based on DisabledGo’s surveyor visits and assessment.

Part of the INCLUSION project and co-funded by the GSA under the FP7 program, a framework through which the EU supports research and development opportunities, working prototypes of the product were recently demonstrated at the London European and Space expo, designed to showcase the GSA’s investment on social inclusion to great acclaim. Present at the live demonstration were Antonio Tajani, Vice President of the European Commission, Magali Vaissiere, Director of Telecommunications and Integrated Applications of the European Space Agency, David Willets, the Minister of State for Universities and Science, Sergio Greco, vice-president and General Manager of the Navigation and Integrated Communications Business Unit at Thales Alenia Space Italia, and of course Gold Medallist, Peter Norfolk, with participants personally experiencing barrier-free navigation within an area of London.

“I was very impressed with the INCLUSION sat nav,” said Peter Norfolk. “Being able to take it out of the car and use it to avoid kerbs and steps to find an accessible route is a fantastic benefit, and takes the worry out of visiting new places."

In addition to personal navigation, Navevo has also incorporated facilities for a more typical in-car solution with turn-by-turn voice guidance and clear route planning, but adds context-sensitive functionality such as locations for on-street disabled parking bays, disabled access car parks, toilet and leisure facilities. It also features a “carer alert”, whereby at the press of a button a user can select the type of assistance they require before the terminal automatically sends a message to a service centre before being relayed to a chosen carer, along with the user’s location.

“We are proud to be in a unique position to be able to bring together Thales Alenia Space’s expertise in satellite navigation technologies and Navevo’s experience with navigation software development,” said Giovanni Guarino, INCLUSION Project Manager. “We’re confident that this fruitful partnership and development of the ‘first ever’ barrier free navigation device will provide very real benefits for the mobility impaired, and following a successful demonstration look forward to an equally successful launch in the near future.”

“Our investment in the INCLUSION project, along with our partnership with Thales Alenia Space, demonstrates Navevo’s ongoing commitment to develop innovative navigation solutions for the disability sector,” said Navevo CEO Nick Caesari. “The live demonstration in London was an important step in raising awareness at the highest level of this type of technology for the mobility impaired and we look forward to making our barrier-free navigation system a reality for modern consumers in the very near future.”

With Navevo putting the finishing touches on its new navigational aide, it is expected to release a retail version in the first half of 2013, with further details to follow.

-ENDS-

Additional Info

Images:
A high resolution image of the Navevo “barrier-free” navigation system can be downloaded from here: Navevo 'Barrier Free' Navigation System

Photographs from the live demonstration can be downloaded by clicking on these links:

Image 1
Peter Norfolk OBE. Rt Hon David Willetts MP & Minister for Universities and Science. Nick Caesari, CEO, Navevo.

Image 2
Peter Norfolk OBE. Rt Hon David Willetts MP & Minister for Universities and Science.

Image 3
Peter Norfolk OBE. Giovanni Guarino, Thales Alenia Space.

All event photographs provided by Michael David, BIS Digital.

About Navevo

Navevo is the UK’s leading navigation software specialist and provides a complete range of solutions from sophisticated ‘on board’ in-vehicle satellite navigation systems to location-aware applications and services. Since inception, Navevo has always put innovation at the forefront of its strategy and has developed a number of ‘first to market’ navigation products such as ProNav, the first navigation system specifically designed for Heavy Goods Vehicle drivers, and BBNav, the first navigation system designed for disabled drivers. Navevo is recognised as one of the innovation leaders in the navigation industry and has received a number of awards including the 2008 ‘European Telematics Product Innovation Award’ from Frost & Sullivan (a global growth consulting company which partners with clients to support the development of innovative growth strategies) in recognition of its ProNav system.

Press contacts

For further information or to arrange an interview with Nick Caesari, CEO of Navevo, please contact:

Sarah Chard
The PR Room
Tel: +44 (0)845 094 2902
sarah.chard@theprroom.co.uk ]]>

OAKLEY INVITES YOU TO CHANGE PERSPECTIVE

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:50:00 +0100

Innovative eyewear brand unveils European campaign with motorsport icons.

London, 3rd April, 2013 – Oakley today launches a pan-European integrated brand campaign featuring motorsport icons Fernando Alonso, Valentino Rossi and Sebastien Loeb.

The "Change Perspective" campaign rolls out across brand, media and retail channels in the UK, Spain, France, Germany and Italy, and builds on the "Beyond Reason" campaign concept launched with great success prior to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Oakley continue to explore the "Beyond Reason" mindset of their elite athletes and are now inviting consumers to share their unique vision and approach, with the central premise "In order to change the game, you need to look at the world differently".

The campaign reveals how motorsport legends Rossi, Alonso and Loeb challenge themselves outside of their well-documented lives in MotoGP, Formula 1 and World Rally.

Tom Cartmale, Oakley UK Brand Director, commented "This spirit of new adventure, new experience and new horizons is what drives our iconic athletes, and has enabled Oakley to reset boundaries in product design and sport performance. We hope this campaign will inspire and intrigue but most of all create a deeper connection with our consumers and enhance awareness & understanding of our lifestyle products, specifically Garage Rock".

Image-enabled print ads, digital and ambient outdoor activity, interactive video web-banners and in-store video displays will reveal Alonso as a road cyclist, Loeb as a helicopter pilot and Rossi as a rally driver, and a central campaign hub on Oakley.com will drive interaction and photo sharing across Oakley, athlete and retailer social networks.

***

Campaign Trailer: https://vimeo.com/63237284

The Change Perspective campaign online:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/oakleyeurope
Instagram: http://instagram.com/oakleyeurope
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/oakley
Oakley: http://oakley.com/changeperspective ]]>

History book becomes viral hit on Kickstarter.com

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:35:00 +0100

'Roads Were Not Built For Cars' book exceeds crowd-sourced funding target by 270 percent and is supported by Edmund King, President of the Automobile Association

Author Carlton Reid of Newcastle upon Tyne has a hit book on his hands, and it's not even written yet. His roads history book has already raised GBP11,000 on the crowd-funding website Kickstarter.com. and there's still another 17 days to go before the campaign ends. 'Roads Were Not Built For Cars' originally aimed for funds of GBP4000 on Kickstarter and now has GBP11,070, 270 percent beyond target. Projects on Kickstarter are only funded once a self-imposed target is reached.

Reid is the executive editor of BikeBiz, a bicycle trade magazine, and has been researching his history book for two years.

"I wasn't expecting the book to do so well, so fast," said Reid. His target of GBP4000 was reached in less than 20 hours. This success caught the eye of staff at the US-based Kickstarter.com and they included the book in the company's weekly global email, which highlights three projects from around the world. Reid's book was plugged alongside a nail-painting service and a photography project, both from America.

Kickstarter's email said: "Most of us make use of roads every day without thinking twice about where they came from, or even why they exist. In his new book, Carlton Reid explores exactly that, delving into the history of roads in the US and UK, their place in a society, and their roots in cycling."

'Roads Were Not Built For Cars' is due to be published in August. It will show in great detail how motoring owes a great deal to cycling, something that may come as a surprise to many motorists. In a video for the Kickstarter campaign, Reid interviewed passers-by all of whom said a busy four-lane highway in Newcastle must have been designed for motorists. In fact, it was built to the current width in 1838 and was only later retrofitted for cars.

For instance, it was cyclists, and not motorists, who first pushed for high-quality road surfaces. In fact, the Roads Improvement Association of the UK was created by cycling organisations more than ten years before the first motorcar was imported into the country. And in America, the Good Roads movement, started by cyclists, later led to the creation of the US Department of Transportation and many "motor lobby" organisations were, originally, started by cyclists.

Reid said: "Cyclists were written out of highway history in the 1920s and 1930s by the all-powerful motor lobby: Roads Were Not Built For Cars tells the real story, putting cyclists centre stage again."

Edmund King, President of the Automobile Association and Visiting Professor of Transport at Newcastle University was one of the first supporters of the book, having helped Reid secure research funding two years ago.

King said: "Some drivers think that they own the road so might be surprised when they hear that roads were not built for cars. Carlton's fascinating insight into the origin of roads hopefully will break down some of the road "ownership" issues and help promote harmony for all road users whether on four wheels or two."

- ENDS -

CONTACT:

Carlton Reid
Tel: +44 191 2652062
carltonreid@mac.com ]]>