As part of their holiday programme, Irish Ferries are currently promoting Summer day trips to Britain on their Dublin-Holyhead and Rosslare-Pembroke routes.
Offering the prospect of a day away in Wales, fares begin at €16 per person return with a children-go-free offer. Day trips are also possible by car on all routes/all ships priced from only €119 midweek for car and driver with €14 return for adults and half price for children.
Further information and bookings can be made on line at www.irishferries.com
29 July 2005
New Grande Punto revealed
by Brian Byrne Fiat will shortly be unveiling its all-new Grande Punto, which goes on sale in September.
Grande Punto has been designed to be a larger vehicle than is typical for the class. It is designed by Italdesign-Giugiaro, in partnership with Centro Stile Fiat
At launch there will be 65bhp and 77bhp petrol engine options and four turbodiesels including a 1.9 MultiJet with 130bhp.
25 July 2005
New EazyPass lanes opened
by Trish Whelan. Two new Eazy Pass express lanes opened today at the West-Link toll plaza, one northbound and one southbound. Their promotional gimmick is taken from the 'Wizard of Oz' and entreats motorists to 'follow the yellow brick road'.
Eazy Pass is the electronic toll payment system operating at the country's three toll plazas. The express lanes are solely for Eazy Pass car and van customers, allowing them travel quickly through the tolls without having to queue behind cash paying customers.
The Express lanes are painted bright yellow for ease of distinction from the cash paying lanes and are positioned beside the existing Eazy Pass Express lanes, replacing one of the 'Coin only' lanes. These new quick lanes will open from Monday-Friday, reverting back to 'Coin only' lanes at weekends.
There are currently around 75,000 drivers using the Eazy Pass system. Almost 1,000 vehicles per hour use the quick system at peak times and the lanes are capable of processing vehicles twice as fast as any of the cash ones. The electronic system will provide the platform for the eventual introduction of free-flow tolling.
During peak times, over 40% of vehicles pay their tolls electronically. By the end of 2006, it is anticipated that the majority of customers at Dublin's toll bridges will use Eazy Pass to pay their toll fares.
Eazy Pass is an independently owned subsidiary of NTR plc.
22 July 2005
New Matiz, Rodius launched
by Trish Whelan. Chevrolet Ireland has introduced the new-generation Matiz and the Ssangyong Rodius to the Irish market.
The new Matiz comes with a choice of 800cc and 1-litre engines.
There's one level of specification and the price for each version is €10,995 and €11,595 -- the larger engine gives the car a 'Sport' designation.
The importer expects to sell up to 400 units next year.
The Rodius from Ssangyong is powered by the same 2.7-litre 165bhp diesel as is in the company's Rexton.
It starts at €34,995. There will be a commercial version at €26,495 + VAT.
21 July 2005
Renault to use spare capacity for Clio III
by Brian Byrne. Although almost 16,000 Renault Modus models were sold across Europe in May, the 82,601 cumulative for the first five months of 2005 indicates that the model is selling much less successfully than anticipated.
The manufacturing plant at Valladolid in Spain has a capacity of 300,000 units a year, and last year was refitted to build Modus cars only.
But now Renault is considering re-introducing the Clio model to the factory, in its Mk III form, in order to maintain viable output levels from the facility.
Clio III goes on sale in a number of European markets - including Ireland - in the autumn, following its official public launch at the September Frankfurt Motor Show.
The manufacturing plant at Valladolid in Spain has a capacity of 300,000 units a year, and last year was refitted to build Modus cars only.
But now Renault is considering re-introducing the Clio model to the factory, in its Mk III form, in order to maintain viable output levels from the facility.
Clio III goes on sale in a number of European markets - including Ireland - in the autumn, following its official public launch at the September Frankfurt Motor Show.
20 July 2005
Diesels to cost more
by Brian Byrne. Diesel engines are expected to cost up to 25 percent more in five years because of stricter emissions regulations, compared to a marginal increase in the cost of petrol engines over the same period.
London-based analysts CSM worldwide estimate a 500 increase in cost on the typical 4-cylinder common-rail diesel, compared to a 100 increase for an equivalent petrol engine.
Diesel engines can already cost a third more to build than petrol ones, though there's often no difference between direct injection petrol and diesel equivalents -- but the projected increased cost structure will make the diesel less attractive even in these cases.
The situation is expected to trim the strong growth of diesel penetration in Europe, which currently stands at an average of around 50 percent of all sales.
London-based analysts CSM worldwide estimate a 500 increase in cost on the typical 4-cylinder common-rail diesel, compared to a 100 increase for an equivalent petrol engine.
Diesel engines can already cost a third more to build than petrol ones, though there's often no difference between direct injection petrol and diesel equivalents -- but the projected increased cost structure will make the diesel less attractive even in these cases.
The situation is expected to trim the strong growth of diesel penetration in Europe, which currently stands at an average of around 50 percent of all sales.
19 July 2005
Interior design new 'driver'
by Brian Byrne. The major war between carmakers in the developed markets is now interior design.
With people spending more time in their cars, there are increasing efforts to make them 'more home than home' in comfort and facility terms.
Examples are the use of better materials, such as the new generation VW Passat, along with gimmicks like the replacement trims available in Citroen's C2 and the Peugeot 1007. The Citroen C4 perfume dispenser, and special interior lighting in Mercedes and BMW top models.
But the battle for the minds -- and wallets -- of the buyers still begin at the exterior. According to Stefan Sielaff, DaimlerChrysler's interior designs boss, quoted in an interview with Automotive News, people still have to 'fall in love with' the outside of a car before they can appreciate its interior.
With people spending more time in their cars, there are increasing efforts to make them 'more home than home' in comfort and facility terms.
Examples are the use of better materials, such as the new generation VW Passat, along with gimmicks like the replacement trims available in Citroen's C2 and the Peugeot 1007. The Citroen C4 perfume dispenser, and special interior lighting in Mercedes and BMW top models.
But the battle for the minds -- and wallets -- of the buyers still begin at the exterior. According to Stefan Sielaff, DaimlerChrysler's interior designs boss, quoted in an interview with Automotive News, people still have to 'fall in love with' the outside of a car before they can appreciate its interior.
Grandis diesel prices announced
by Brian Byrne. The new diesel Mitsubishi Grandis, due to arrive in Ireland in September, will be available in two specifications and prices will start at €36,995.
This is €1,000 less than the only model currently available, with the 2.4-litre petrol engine.
A 2-litre DI-D INSTYLE version will have 17" alloy wheels, dual sunroofs, leather seats and trim A/C, rear park assistance and heated front seats will be priced at €40,995.
Cooking up a VW storm
by Trish Whelan. Celebrity Chef Nevin Maguire was the key ingredient at a recent event hosted by Volkswagen Main dealers Kevin Connolly Car Sales, Ballina when he addressed a capacity audience of over one hundred cookery enthusiasts with tips, hits, and demonstrations on various aspects of the culinary arts.
Nevin, who is the proprietor of the award winning MacNean’s Bistro in Blacklion, Co Cavan is pictured at the event with Volkswagen Sales Manager Tom O’Connor.
Next Mini will use PSA engines
by Brian Byrne. When the next-generation BMW Mini is launched at the end of next year, it will have engine options that include PSA Group petrol and diesel units.
The petrol options will be 1.4- and 1.6-litre engines, which will also be used in PSA cars beginning with the Peugeot 207 due next year.
And the diesel is likely to be the 1.6-litre unit currently available in a number of Ford, Volvo, Mazda, Peugeot and Citroen products. It is produced in two power outputs; 90hp and 110hp.
The 1.6-litre engine in the current Mini range is siurced in South America, and has been criticised as being too thirsty.
The current diesel offering comes from Toyota, and for the remaining year of the existing Mini's production will get a horsepower boost from 75hp to 88hp.
The petrol options will be 1.4- and 1.6-litre engines, which will also be used in PSA cars beginning with the Peugeot 207 due next year.
And the diesel is likely to be the 1.6-litre unit currently available in a number of Ford, Volvo, Mazda, Peugeot and Citroen products. It is produced in two power outputs; 90hp and 110hp.
The 1.6-litre engine in the current Mini range is siurced in South America, and has been criticised as being too thirsty.
The current diesel offering comes from Toyota, and for the remaining year of the existing Mini's production will get a horsepower boost from 75hp to 88hp.
18 July 2005
Galaxy replacement for Frankfurt
by Brian Byrne Ford has changed its MPV renewal strategy and will now show the next-generation of its Galaxy at Frankfurt instead of the expected production version of the SAV concept shown at Geneva.
That latter car will now get its public debut at the next Geneva show.
The new Galaxy will be based on the Mondeo platform and will be built in the same factory as Mondeo in Ghenk, Belgium.
The current Galaxy was a joint venture with VW and was built at a VW plant in Portugal.
That latter car will now get its public debut at the next Geneva show.
The new Galaxy will be based on the Mondeo platform and will be built in the same factory as Mondeo in Ghenk, Belgium.
The current Galaxy was a joint venture with VW and was built at a VW plant in Portugal.
New S-Class to be biggest, most expensive
by Brian Byrne When the new-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class is launched in October it will regain its former attribute of being both the largest and most expensive sedan in its segment.
This follows a period of restraint since the eight-year reign of the W140 version launched in 1990. The next car was significantly downsized in length and power following criticism.
The current S-Class is the best-selling luxury car in the world, but in Europe only holds the third rung of the ladder against BMW's 7 and Audi's A8.
This follows a period of restraint since the eight-year reign of the W140 version launched in 1990. The next car was significantly downsized in length and power following criticism.
The current S-Class is the best-selling luxury car in the world, but in Europe only holds the third rung of the ladder against BMW's 7 and Audi's A8.
15 July 2005
New small Peugeot shown to Irish press
by Trish Whelan. Launched to the Irish motoring press in France this week, Peugeot's new 107 small car won't go on sale here until January 2006. But a version will be on show in each Peugeot dealership by the end of this year.
The car is one of the products of a joint venture between PSA Peugeot-Citroen and Toyota.
Mark O'Connell of Peugeot Ireland said "The 107 is a reliable, robust, hassle-free, basic car, not loaded with goodies or technology. We will be emphasising its city savvy and handling performance in town, its economic running, roominess, low emission levels, and passive safety."
Pictured with the car are Peugeot Ireland's Mark O'Connell and Emma Toner.
This four-seater will be available in 3- and 5-door versions. The range includes three engines, a 1.0 manual, 1.0 2-Tronic, and a 1.4HDi manual. Customers can choose from eight body colours and two finish levels.
Peugeot will be targetting their existing 9,000 Peugeot 106 drivers here about the new car as well as looking to a large number of conquest sales. They expect the 107 to appeal to multi-car households and in particular couples with or without kids, or single people living at home. And maybe more to younger females. These target groups account for 40-58% of A segment customers here.
Standard items on the 107 include ABS, EBFD, electric power steering, dual airbags, and ESP (from 2007), 14-inch wheels (and a spare), single-blade front wiper, Radio-CD player. There is no multi-function screen or multiplexing in the car.
All three of the joint venture cars are built at a new plant at Kolin in the Czech Republic which has a capacity of 320,000 vehicles a year. Mark O'Connell hopes to have around 500 of these units for 2006, subject to availability.
Prices have yet to be announced.
While its joint venture companion, the Toyota Aygo, offers a three year warranty, PSA have decided on a 2-year one for the Peugeot.
Competitors include its joint venture sibling, the Toyota Aygo (and forthcoming Citroen C1), Fiat Panda, Kia Picanto, Ford Ka, Chevrolet Matiz, Opel Agila, and Smart Fortwo.
14 July 2005
DI engines only for Alfa
by Remi Blondet. Alfa Romeo will become the first carmaker to provide only direct injection petrol engines across its model range.
The JTS engines increase power and performance, but don't make much improvement, if any, to fuel consumption.
They are available in 1.9, 2.2 and 3.2 litres - the first two based on engines sourced from GM Europe, the last on a V6 produced by GM's Australian subsidiary Holden. The cylinder head designs are Alfa's own.
The JTS engines increase power and performance, but don't make much improvement, if any, to fuel consumption.
They are available in 1.9, 2.2 and 3.2 litres - the first two based on engines sourced from GM Europe, the last on a V6 produced by GM's Australian subsidiary Holden. The cylinder head designs are Alfa's own.
Daimler name returning
by Brian Byrne. A long-wheelbase version of the Jaguar XJ will bring back the Daimler name to the company's showrooms from the autumn.
The name was dropped from the carmaker's range three years ago, but the new model will debut at Frankfurt in September.
It will have a different grille and more luxury wood and leather trim, and will be substantially more expensive than the equivalent Jaguar.
Jaguar bought out the Daimler brand in 1960.
The name was dropped from the carmaker's range three years ago, but the new model will debut at Frankfurt in September.
It will have a different grille and more luxury wood and leather trim, and will be substantially more expensive than the equivalent Jaguar.
Jaguar bought out the Daimler brand in 1960.
'Smart' keys not smart enough?
by Brian Byrne. Only the 'smart' key systems offered on the Nissan Micra, and, possibly, Ford's Focus, would meet the new security criteria required by British insurance companies, according to a report by vehicle security consultants SBD.
The report, Smart key system development and availability in Europe, shows that since Mercedes-Benz pioneered the technology on its S-Class range in 1999, 24 other vehicles have adopted similar systems, with 12 more scheduled for launch by the end of 2006. The majority are prestige models, although volume brands such as Ford, Opel/Vauxhall and Nissan, are making smart keys available to a much wider market.
In the past year, SBD has tested nine vehicle smart key systems against the Thatcham criteria and found that all bar one – that offered on the Nissan Micra – would not meet the required level of security. Although the system developed for the Ford Focus does not conform exactly to the new criteria, SBD believes it could be passed.
Mitsubishi, PSA to produce SUVs
by Brian Byrne. Mitsubishi and PSA Peugeot Citroen have signed the final cooperation agreement between their two companies to produce a range of new SUVs under the brands of bothcarmakers.
The vehicles will be launched in Europe in 2007, with the PSA group versions powered by Mitsubishi Motors’ newly developed petrol engines with aluminium cylinder blocks and by PSA Peugeot Citroën’s latest-generation HDi diesel engines equipped with particulate filters.
The models of the three brands Peugeot, Citroën and European version Mitsubishi will be unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show.
The vehicles will be launched in Europe in 2007, with the PSA group versions powered by Mitsubishi Motors’ newly developed petrol engines with aluminium cylinder blocks and by PSA Peugeot Citroën’s latest-generation HDi diesel engines equipped with particulate filters.
The models of the three brands Peugeot, Citroën and European version Mitsubishi will be unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show.
Stephen gets Citroen help
by Trish Whelan. Gallic Distributors, the Irish Citroën importers, are sponsoring Irish golfer Stephen Browne by providing him with a C5 for the next two years.
He is pictured on the right with Niall Costello, Head of Sales and Marketing Gallic Distributors, and Michael Dwan, Managing Director Gowan Group.
Stephen is a member of the European Tour having won his card through the qualifying school in November 2004.
Toyota tops again in JD Power survey
by Trish Whelan. Toyota has achieved the premier position in overall customer satisfaction for the fourth consecutive time according to the JD Power and Associates 2005 Germany Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Study.
Toyota scored 856 points on a 1000-point scale, performing particularly well in the areas of quality and reliability, service satisfaction and ownership costs.
In addition, Toyota models ranked number one in five out of seven segments. Toyota Yaris Verso was the best in the 'Small Car' segment, with Yaris Hatchback in the second position. Toyota Corolla was the best in the 'Lower Medium' segment, as Avensis topped the 'Upper Medium' segment.
Toyota also prevailed in the MPV and SUV segments with Toyota Corolla Verso and Toyota RAV4, respectively. In addition, Toyota Avensis Verso was also second among MPVs.
Toyota scored 856 points on a 1000-point scale, performing particularly well in the areas of quality and reliability, service satisfaction and ownership costs.
In addition, Toyota models ranked number one in five out of seven segments. Toyota Yaris Verso was the best in the 'Small Car' segment, with Yaris Hatchback in the second position. Toyota Corolla was the best in the 'Lower Medium' segment, as Avensis topped the 'Upper Medium' segment.
Toyota also prevailed in the MPV and SUV segments with Toyota Corolla Verso and Toyota RAV4, respectively. In addition, Toyota Avensis Verso was also second among MPVs.
13 July 2005
Winner all right!
by Trish Whelan. Sinead Gaskin of Dundrum was the lucky winner of a brand new Citroën C3 valued at €16,600 in the recent Women's Mini Marathon. She's pictured receiving the keys of the car from Citroen Ireland's Ruth Baily.
All of those who participate in the event were in with a chance to win the Citroën C3, with Sinead’s name coming out of the draw this year.
More than 40,000 women from all over Ireland participated in the biggest event of its kind in the world, raising an estimated €9 million for charities throughout Ireland.
Don't fly me, drive me
by Trish Whelan. Irish Ferries has taken the line that flying is for the birds with the announcement of their new EUR139 each way long-stay fare to Britain for a car plus one adult.
In what their Sales Manager Declan Mescall calls “a competitive response to the airline sector” the new peak season €139 fare operative until end-August is applicable on Monday to Thursday sailings on their Rosslare-Pembroke route.
Other low fares are also available for weekend and Dublin-Holyhead departures.
A 5-day mid week fare from €279 for a car plus 2 adults, with a kids go free offer is also available.
Book on line www.irishferries.com
In what their Sales Manager Declan Mescall calls “a competitive response to the airline sector” the new peak season €139 fare operative until end-August is applicable on Monday to Thursday sailings on their Rosslare-Pembroke route.
Other low fares are also available for weekend and Dublin-Holyhead departures.
A 5-day mid week fare from €279 for a car plus 2 adults, with a kids go free offer is also available.
Book on line www.irishferries.com
Ford ups Focus forecast
by Trish Whelan. Ford Ireland has revised upwards its full-year forecast for the country’s best-selling car, the Ford Focus, to 10,500 units.
Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) statistics show Ford’s earlier 12-month forecast for the model of 8,500 units was already surpassed last week. In May the Focus claimed a 9 percent share of the car market.
The Focus success story doesn’t stop in Ireland. Last week Ford announced that capacity at its production plant in St Petersburg was to increase by 50percent to meet demand in Russia.
Next Civic for end year
by Brian Byrne. Honda in Ireland is hoping to have the next-generation Civic launched here late December or early January.
A company spokesman said there 'won't be volume' available initially.
The new Civic is due for public debut at the September Frankfurt Show, and is expected to be very close to the 'concept' shown at Geneva last March (above).
Meanwhile, Honda in Ireland have no plans to 'eco-label' its cars here for consumers, as has been done in Britain in advance of a local regulation due to come into force in September.
Irish cars are obliged to provide CO2 emissions on showroom notices.
Mitsubishi gives concept peek
by Remi Blondet. Mitsubishi Motors has released the first sketches of its latest concept car, the Concept-Sportback, set to make its world debut at Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
The Mitsubishi Concept-Sportback gives the first indications of the company’s vision for its next generation of C-segment cars and provides its design inspiration for a new European 5-door sports hatchback.
This platform is flexible enough to accommodate a wide range of derivatives and, as a result, will spawn a range of new models over the next three years from SUVs to family hatchbacks.
Phone-in-car research confirms danger
by Ray Bernard. A new research study published in the British Medical Journal finds that drivers using phones are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves.
Male and female drivers experienced about the same increase in risk from using a phone. So did drivers older and younger than 30 and drivers using hand-held and hands-free phones."
Eighty-nine percent of the crashes involved other vehicles. More than half of the injured drivers reported that their crashes occurred within 10 minutes of the start of the trip.
The study was conducted in the Western Australian city of Perth by the US-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Male and female drivers experienced about the same increase in risk from using a phone. So did drivers older and younger than 30 and drivers using hand-held and hands-free phones."
Eighty-nine percent of the crashes involved other vehicles. More than half of the injured drivers reported that their crashes occurred within 10 minutes of the start of the trip.
The study was conducted in the Western Australian city of Perth by the US-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Eazy Pass promotion today
by Brian Byrne. Eazy Pass, the electronic toll payment facility operating at the country’s three toll plazas, is handing out a limited number of free credit Eazy Pass Tags at West-Link Toll bridge today.
The Tags contain €15 worth of free tolls, which can be used in payment for journeys through East-Link, West-Link and North-Link - M1 Toll Plaza.
Declan White, General Manager, Eazy Pass said it is the company's experience that once drivers use Eazy Pass they are hooked, because they experience first hand the ease and convenience of using the service.
"From our own perspective it will be very interesting to see how many of those who receive a free tag on Wednesday go on to sign up for the service, we imagine it will be a very high percentage.”
The Tags contain €15 worth of free tolls, which can be used in payment for journeys through East-Link, West-Link and North-Link - M1 Toll Plaza.
Declan White, General Manager, Eazy Pass said it is the company's experience that once drivers use Eazy Pass they are hooked, because they experience first hand the ease and convenience of using the service.
"From our own perspective it will be very interesting to see how many of those who receive a free tag on Wednesday go on to sign up for the service, we imagine it will be a very high percentage.”
12 July 2005
Grandis diesel for autumn
by Brian Byrne. The new diesel powered version of the Mitsubishi Grandis will be launched in Ireland towards the end of September, and is expected to increase sales of the MPV ten-fold next year.
The Grandis has only been available up to now with a 2.4-litre petrol engine and sold 30 units last year.
But Mitsubishi Ireland expects that some 300 diesel versions will be sold in 2006.
The diesel engine has been sourced from Volkswagen, and has a 6-speed manual tranmission. The price will be announced next week, but it is understood that it will be 'under €40,000'.
New Ford MPV for Frankfurt
by Brian Byrne As reported earlier this year in irishcarnews.ie, Ford of Europe's SAV Concept vehicle will soon become a production reality.
Ford has now confirmed that the production version of the SAV Concept will become a new model in its European portfolio, positioned between the Ford Mondeo and the Ford Galaxy MPV. It will be built at Ford's production facility in Genk, Belgium and will feature a 5 + 2 seating arrangement.
The final name of the production model and full technical details will be revealed closer to its launch, early in 2006.
New Rio incoming
by Brian Byrne. The all new Kia Rio arrives in Europe this summer with an all-new, sportier and distinctive appearance. It is scheduled to be launched in Ireland in September.
The car provides more space than its predecessor as well as more power, higher performance, better handling, a smoother ride and enhanced fuel economy.
There will be a 5-door hatch and 4-door saloon, powered by 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines and a 1.5-litre diesel.
11 July 2005
Report oil spills plea
by Brian Byrne. The National Safety Council and AA Roadwatch have urged the public to report oil or diesel road spills that occur in their community as they pose a significant threat to safety on Irish roads.
Road-users are being asked to report oil or diesel spills to their local Gardai and by calling AA Roadwatch on LoCall 1850 542 542 or emailing the details to oilspills@aaireland.ie
AA Roadwatch has been asked by the National Safety Council to maintain a database of oil/diesel spills in an effort to establish how significant a problem they are on roads.
To date in 2005 there have been 25 major oil and diesel spills, of which 12 stretched for a combined distance of 231km and were deemed to be a major threat to the safety of road-users.
While all vehicle types can potentially be a source of an oil or diesel leak the main causes based on anecdotal evidence appear to be;
1. Faulty seals and hoses not properly emptied on oil / diesel delivery trucks
2. Carelessness in closing fuel caps particularly on heavy goods vehicles
3. Waste oil being carried in tankers and on poorly sealed barrels on goods vehicles spilling at junctions
4. Leaking hydraulic systems / braking systems particularly in agricultural vehicles
5. Road crashes, when oil sumps may be ruptured
Road-users are being asked to report oil or diesel spills to their local Gardai and by calling AA Roadwatch on LoCall 1850 542 542 or emailing the details to oilspills@aaireland.ie
AA Roadwatch has been asked by the National Safety Council to maintain a database of oil/diesel spills in an effort to establish how significant a problem they are on roads.
To date in 2005 there have been 25 major oil and diesel spills, of which 12 stretched for a combined distance of 231km and were deemed to be a major threat to the safety of road-users.
While all vehicle types can potentially be a source of an oil or diesel leak the main causes based on anecdotal evidence appear to be;
1. Faulty seals and hoses not properly emptied on oil / diesel delivery trucks
2. Carelessness in closing fuel caps particularly on heavy goods vehicles
3. Waste oil being carried in tankers and on poorly sealed barrels on goods vehicles spilling at junctions
4. Leaking hydraulic systems / braking systems particularly in agricultural vehicles
5. Road crashes, when oil sumps may be ruptured
8 July 2005
Logan rolling out in Europe
by Brian Byrne. Though originally conceived as a basic car for emerging markets, including eastern Europe, the Dacia Logan by Renault will also now launch in eight western European markets over the next six months.
The rollout is due to what the company says is 'exceptional consumer interest'. The car in developed European markets will help Renault compete with low-priced competition from Hyundai and Kia.
Audi girls get the top down
by Trish Whelan. Models Andrea Roche and Gail Kaneswaren remind us that Summer is here and it’s time to let the top down - when you get a day like they obviously had!
Andrea and Gail are pictured with the Audi A4 Cabriolet which Audi Ireland's sales manager John Hayes tells us is now leading the field in the open-top segment.
Young drivers 'carrying weapons'
by Brian Byrne. An RAC-sponsored survey in Britain found that almost half of young motorists are carrying potentially lethal weapons in their vehicles in order to protect themselves and their cars from crime.
The survey, published in Max Power magazine, suggests that nearly 60 per cent of 17 to 23 year old drivers report having had their vehicle vandalised, and nearly half have had items stolen from their car.
Almost one-third of young drivers admit to carrying a baseball bat in their vehicle.
Nine per cent own up to carrying a blade or sword with them when they drive.
Young drivers also confess to carrying crowbars, wheel-braces, screw drivers and tyre levers, all of which could be used as deadly weapons.
The survey, published in Max Power magazine, suggests that nearly 60 per cent of 17 to 23 year old drivers report having had their vehicle vandalised, and nearly half have had items stolen from their car.
Almost one-third of young drivers admit to carrying a baseball bat in their vehicle.
Nine per cent own up to carrying a blade or sword with them when they drive.
Young drivers also confess to carrying crowbars, wheel-braces, screw drivers and tyre levers, all of which could be used as deadly weapons.
7 July 2005
Ford offers infotainment, including iPod
by Trish Whelan. Ford Mondeo buyers will be able to enjoy the latest in mobile entertainment and technology this summer thanks to a special offer from the Ford Dealers of Ireland.
Between now and 30 September, dealers are giving away an in-car DVD system, Satellite Navigation and and iPod on a wide range of new Mondeos, from €24,740.
The Mondeo ‘infotainment bundle’ carries a retail value of close to €1,500. The Garmin Street Pilot navigation system is an easy-to-use tool for getting from A to B, as well as for finding specific destinations such as hotels, restaurants, and golf courses.
The DVD system fits into the rear of the front headrest, transforming boring long journeys into pleasure trips for the kids ... and in turn for the adults in front. The package also includes the hottest tech-accessory in town, the iPod Mini, storing up to 1,000 songs.
VRT proposal welcomed
by Trish Whelan. The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has welcomed a decision of the EU Commission to bring in a Directive forcing Member States to phase out Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) over a ten year period.
Cyril McHugh, Chief Executive SIMI said SIMI has been lobbying the Irish Government and the EU Commission to reduce VRT for over a decade based on its inequity within the Single Market.
"We are very pleased to see that the EU Commission is now putting pressure on Member States to do so," he said. "We strongly recommend that the Government take the Commission’s proposal into consideration in the December Budget and start to reduce car prices for Irish motorists."
So far this year motorists have paid €876m in VRT which makes up 5% of total tax revenue for the Exchequer for the first six months of the year.
"The total tax take from all motoring taxation for the half year constitutes about €3bn or 17% of all government revenue. This is an unfair burden on one sector.”
Cyril McHugh, Chief Executive SIMI said SIMI has been lobbying the Irish Government and the EU Commission to reduce VRT for over a decade based on its inequity within the Single Market.
"We are very pleased to see that the EU Commission is now putting pressure on Member States to do so," he said. "We strongly recommend that the Government take the Commission’s proposal into consideration in the December Budget and start to reduce car prices for Irish motorists."
So far this year motorists have paid €876m in VRT which makes up 5% of total tax revenue for the Exchequer for the first six months of the year.
"The total tax take from all motoring taxation for the half year constitutes about €3bn or 17% of all government revenue. This is an unfair burden on one sector.”
Irish G4 challenger needed
by Trish Whelan. Land Rover Ireland has launched its search for an Irish representative to compete in the 2006 Land Rover G4 Challenge in South East Asia and South America next year.
Competitors from 18 nations will compete in the 2006 Land Rover G4 Challenge - a dynamic 4x4 driving competition that incorporates sports such as mountain biking, kayaking, climbing, orienteering and abseiling.
Pictured at the launch is RTE’s No Frontiers presenter Kathryn Thomas and the Irish representative in the 2003 Land Rover G4 Challenge, Paul McCarthy, with John Paul Mooney, marketing manager, Land Rover Ireland.
The global Challenge takes place in April 2006 over a four-week period. It is set against the backdrop of four countries - Thailand, Laos, Brazil and Bolivia with the overall international winner driving away with a new Range Rover.
Entry is via the Land Rover Ireland G4 Challenge website and closing date is September 2005. A short list of contestants will then be chosen to take part in a national selection event which will determine who will represent Ireland.
Paul McCarthy said the 2003 Land Rover G4 Challenge was one of the toughest things he has ever undertaken. "But it was also definitely one of the most rewarding. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I wouldn't have made it through without fantastic team mates and the G4 Challenge staff. I wish the best of luck to all those involved in the 2006 Challenge."
According to John Paul Mooney, the Land Rover G4 Challenge brings the essence of the Land Rover brand to life and the meaning of 'challenge' to new heights. "The varied terrain will demonstrate the incredible capabilities of the Land Rover vehicles, while the sports and challenges will test the skills of the contenders to the extreme."
Huge improvements in car safety
by Brian Byrne. Latest EuroNCAP crash tests show huge improvements in new car safety, in just five years.
In 1999, 41 cars were tested in the programme and one achieved a 5-star rating. In 2005, 39 cars have so far been tested and 23 achieved the five stars.
Also in 1999, only one car got a 3-star pedestrian safety rating, but this year six cars have.
Manufacturers are increasingly investing in accident prevention technologies. For example, from July 2004 all new volume production cars have been fitted with ABS as standard, a voluntary move by car makers.
More new models also come with the latest electronic stability and traction control systems.
6 July 2005
Shock results from shocks tests
by Brian Byrne. Almost half of all cars on the road in Europe with 100,000 km on the clock could have damaged or badly worn shock absorbers, with serious implications for road safety.
That's one result of a 'testing tour' carried out by shock absorber manufacturers Tenneco Automotive in Germany, Italy and the Benelux countries over the last few months. The results were released at a presentation in Montpellier, France, this week.
Tenneco's Monroe ride control systems are the most widely used as original equipment in Europe, and the second most widely used in the US. its mobile units tested 16,500 cars in the survey, which was carried out in association with aftermarket dealers and local authorities.
The worst result was in Germany, where 52.8 percent of cars tested were found to have one or more defective shock absorbers.
The equipment is a key safety component, on which the efficiency of the other elements of the 'safety triangle' - brakes and tyres - rely to work properly.
Tenneco has introduced its own awareness-building programme, which involves the graphic of a crash test dummy - 'Mr Monroe' -holding a shock absorber.
3-year free maintenance for new Alfa
by Brian Byrne. Alfa Romeo will try and counter its abysmal reliability perception by offering a three-year warranty and three years' free maintenance on its upcoming 159.
The successor to the 156 comes to Ireland in October, and the warranty and maintenance moves are aimed at winning customers from the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
In the German version of the 2004 J D Power Customer Satisfaction Survey, the Alfa brand languished at number 25 out of 28 brands.
The free maintenance initiative is quoted as being worth €1,400 to German buyers of the 159.
5 July 2005
Diesels good for Jag sales
by Brian Byrne. The provision of a diesel engine to the new-generation Jaguar XJ is expected to increase sales of the model by some 50 percent.
The engine is the 2.7-litre turbodiesel developed by Ford with PSA Peugeot-Citroen, and already in use in two Land Rover models, as well as the S-Type Jaguar.
Adding the diesel to the S-Type last year improved unit sales by more than 10 percent, and two-thirds of the model's European sales are now diesel.
Some Jaguar estimates suggest that up to 80 percent of the brand's total European sales could 'soon' be diesel.
The engine is the 2.7-litre turbodiesel developed by Ford with PSA Peugeot-Citroen, and already in use in two Land Rover models, as well as the S-Type Jaguar.
Adding the diesel to the S-Type last year improved unit sales by more than 10 percent, and two-thirds of the model's European sales are now diesel.
Some Jaguar estimates suggest that up to 80 percent of the brand's total European sales could 'soon' be diesel.
4 July 2005
US big market for new Merc class
by Brian Byrne. Mercedes-Benz's brand new segment - the R Class 'sport tourer' - will sell some 60 percent of its production in the US, where the car is being built.
The R Class goes on sale in the US in the autumn and in Europe early next year.
A dedicated website set up in January attracted 2.1 million visitors, of whom 98,000 asked for more information and provided an email address.
Annual sales targets for the car are estimated too be around 50,000 units.
Mercedes-Benz says buyers will be 'affluent early adopters' and who may have started their families late in life.
The R Class goes on sale in the US in the autumn and in Europe early next year.
A dedicated website set up in January attracted 2.1 million visitors, of whom 98,000 asked for more information and provided an email address.
Annual sales targets for the car are estimated too be around 50,000 units.
Mercedes-Benz says buyers will be 'affluent early adopters' and who may have started their families late in life.
Steel demand eases ELV costs
by Brian Byrne. The high price of steel because of growing demand in China has made the 'end of life' regulations much more viable for car manufacturers in Europe.
Scrap steel prices have gone from less than €100 to €220 in the last few years.
The end-of-live directives come into force in about a year and a half, and require that carmakers take responsibility for scrapped cars they have produced, with no cost to the owner.
Some 10 million cars are currently 'de-registered' each year in the EU, against new car sales of some 14 million units. This represents up to 9 million tonnes of scrap steel, and at current prices a valuable commodity.
In anticipation of the implementation of the ELV regs, most carmakers have negotiated with independent scrappers to do the work.
But according to one estimate, there are just 220 such enterprises across Europe capable to doing the work.
The enhanced profitability in selling scrap steel may encourage more companies to get into the business.
In Spain and Portugal, national scrapping networks are being established which will have their facilities available to all brands.
Scrap steel prices have gone from less than €100 to €220 in the last few years.
The end-of-live directives come into force in about a year and a half, and require that carmakers take responsibility for scrapped cars they have produced, with no cost to the owner.
Some 10 million cars are currently 'de-registered' each year in the EU, against new car sales of some 14 million units. This represents up to 9 million tonnes of scrap steel, and at current prices a valuable commodity.
In anticipation of the implementation of the ELV regs, most carmakers have negotiated with independent scrappers to do the work.
But according to one estimate, there are just 220 such enterprises across Europe capable to doing the work.
The enhanced profitability in selling scrap steel may encourage more companies to get into the business.
In Spain and Portugal, national scrapping networks are being established which will have their facilities available to all brands.
1 July 2005
Four million Saabs
by Brian Byrne. Saab's fourth millionth car was produced at Trollhättan’s assembly lines in Sweden this week. The model was a just-launched Saab 9-3 SportWagon.
The milestone has been reached 55 years and six months after the Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (Swedish Aircraft Company Limited), commonly known as 'Saab', produced its first car at the same Trollhättan plant, which was formerly used to build aircraft. That car was the aircraft-inspired, teardrop-shaped 92 model.
The millionth car - a Saab 99 Combi Coupé - was rolled out in January 1976, the two millionth - a Saab 9000 Turbo - in March 1987 and the three millionth - a Saab 9-5 Saloon - in October 1997.
Saab’s best selling model so far is the now-classic, first generation Saab 900, of which 908,810 were produced between 1978 and 1993. Number two in the list is the Saab 99 (588,643 units), third is the Saab 96 (547,221), fourth the Saab 9000 (503,087) and fifth the current Saab 9-5 series (392,048).
The current Saab 9-3 range includes Sport Saloon, Convertible and new SportWagon variants, whilst the 9-5 series offers Saloon and Estate formats. In North America, the Saab 9-2X and 9-7X add all-wheel-drive, sport compact and SUV versatility.
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