Motorists will be able to get an MOT for £1 from Halfords – if they buy a 10-litre bucket to wash their car first.
The unique offer is aimed at motorists returning to the road after the early 2021 lockdown, which begins to ease from 29 March.
Buying any retail product from a Halfords store, or online at halfords.com, qualifies car owners for the offer, which they can redeem at more than 350 Halfords Autocentres.
Halfords insists it really does mean any retail product: those who don’t want a £1 bucket could buy a £1.99 car air freshener instead.
Car owners redeem the offer by booking their MOT online.
The standard price for an MOT is £39.85.
The offer runs from 25 March to 19 April 2021, and has been timed to coincide with the end of the ‘stay at home’ rule on 29 March.
“It’s clear from our research that MOT tests are one of the biggest expenses that drivers face,” said Halfords Autocentres MD Andy Randall.
March is one of the busiest times for testing, he added. “The MOT test remains the best way to ensure vehicles are safe to drive.”
Halfords research has found that one in five cars has been driven without a valid MOT – with a quarter of motorists admitting they’d done so for up to six months.
Almost two in three said this was because they’d simply forgotten, although a third said it was because they couldn’t afford the test.
Some motorists mistakenly said they drove without a valid MOT “because there was a grace period”, of indeterminate length.
In a shock announcement, the government reduced the grant to £2,500 and lowered the list price threshold from £50,000 to £35,000. As a result, the Tesla Model 3 is excluded from the government scheme.
With a starting price of £43,500, the Model 3 is the most affordable Tesla, but the Performance model costs just shy of £60,000.
Tesla’s website states that customers ordering a Model 3 in March will receive a £2,500 discount. The reduction is only applicable for cars ordered after 18 March 2021 and delivered before 1 April 2021.
The small print makes for interesting reading, however: Tesla cannot guarantee delivery before 1 April 2021 “due to external circumstances or your order timing”. The car “must be delivered. But we cannot guarantee delivery”.
£3,000 discount on new MG EV
In a similar move, MG said it would honour the original £3,000 Plug-in Car Grant discount until 31 March 2021.
All MG electric cars fall under the £35,000 limit, but the company says it is “topping up the support level to its previous level for all customers who order a new MG EV in March 2021”.
Guy Pigounakis, MG’s commercial director, said: “While we welcome any news that encourages people to buy affordable electric cars, for it to come in the middle of the toughest March trading conditions ever is a blow to customers.
“At MG, we believe in ensuring our customers are as happy as they can be with their new cars and in recognition that many of them will have made the decision to buy an MG EV with the £3,000 grant funding in mind, we have decided to honour that for all purchasers who order a new MG ZS Electric or MG5 EV for delivery before the end of this month.”
Mike and Jim Ring have become world-renowned for their show-stopping custom car builds.
Auction website Bring a Trailer is currently hosting the sale of a special Ringbrothers creation, which appeared at the 2012 SEMA Show.
Built in collaboration with Ford, the 2013 Mustang GT known as ‘Switchback’ was given Special Recognition for Outstanding Achievement in Design.
Designed and built in Wisconsin
Based in Spring Green, Wisconsin, Ringbrothers has developed a reputation for building some of the most exciting modified cars.
Creating cars to appear at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas has been central to the company’s increased recognition. Switchback is one of these important builds, with numerous bespoke touches that gained attention amongst hundreds of other exhibits.
It now makes for a rare opportunity to own a true award-winning modified Mustang. The professional photography featured here demonstrates Switchback’s visual impact.
More than just another Mustang show car
The exterior changes to Switchback are extensive, including a custom Ringbrothers-designed aero kit. Made from lightweight carbon fiber, it includes a unique hood that has interchangeable inserts.
Billet aluminum was used to create new side vents, with a deep front splitter adding to the overall aggression. The bodywork is painted in a distinctive Nissan Cefiro Gray.
A bespoke set of 20-inch HRE wheels were made for Switchback, with upgraded Baer brakes fitted behind them. The seller has added adjustable Pedders eXtreme xA coilover suspension.
Extra ponies under the hood
Beneath the custom hood is where the most extreme changes have been made to Switchback. A previous owner replaced the regular Coyote V-8 engine, swapping it for a Ford Performance Aluminator 5.0-liter V-8.
The modifications made previously by Ringbrothes have also been reinstalled. These include a ProCharger P-1SC-1 supercharger, and a Flowmaster exhaust system with new headers.
A dynamometer session in October 2020 recorded a substantial peak output of 506 horsepower, along with 440 lb-ft of torque.
Interior upgrades included, too
Although not quite as dramatic as the exterior transformation, Switchback also benefited from a custom interior makeover. The front seats were finished by Upholstery Unlimited, with black leather and yellow accents.
Ringbrothers removed the rear seats from the Mustang, and replaced them with a full-size spare wheel. Air conditioning, and a Passport radar detector, are also present.
Total mileage for Switchback is recorded as 9,200 miles, with 600 of them added by the selling dealer.
The dealer notes that the handbrake is inoperable due to the custom exhaust, and tuning may be required for the car to pass future smog tests in California.
Prepare for big bids
Switchback is clearly not a regular 2013 Ford Mustang GT, with the unique Ringbrothers additions set to push the price much higher.
Bring a Trailer has featured several sales for vehicles made by the brothers from Wisconsin, with the cheapest selling for $265,000. A modified Ringbrothers Chevrolet K5 Blazer, auctioned for charity in April 2020, achieved $300,000 last year.
Bidding on Switchback is open until Monday, March 29, with Bring a Trailer community interest already rising.
Fiat has partnered up with the Kiri cryptocurrency to reward new electric 500 drivers for eco driving.
Described as a “unique and innovative” initiative, Fiat says it’s part of efforts to treat drivers for more environmentally-friendly driving.
The digital Kiri cryptocurrency is available in Europe, and can be spent in a dedicated marketplace.
New 500 EV drivers will collect ‘KiriCoins’ in a virtual wallet within the Fiat smartphone app.
Driving data such as distance and speed are uploaded to the Kiri cloud and converted into KiriCoins.
Fiat says that when driving in an eco-manner in the city, 1km is equivalent to one KiriCoin, which are worth two euro cents.
This means that 10,000km of city driving could be worth €150, or just under £130.
Drivers with the best eco scores will be given extra rewards, such as vouchers for Amazon, Apple, Netflix and Spotify.
Fiat’s Cristiano Fiorio said the idea was to “reward the behaviours of people who respect the environment”.
Kiri Technologies was founded in the UK in 2020 and Fiat says the concept could be rolled out to other areas such as renewable energy, organic groceries and other products in the future.
The goal is to reward sustainable behaviours with a loyalty program that incentivise a green lifestyle.
Fiat adds that UK plans for KiriCoin in the UK will follow in due course.
Leeds-based sports car manufacturer Ginetta has announced the opening of a new facility in North America.
The creation of Ginetta North America will allow the company to manufacture and sell cars directly to customers on the other side of the Atlantic.
Ginetta’s American expansion sees it become the second specialist manufacturer from Yorkshire to target the United States.
Twisted Automotive, the Land Rover experts from Thirsk, North Yorkshire, established an American operation in 2019.
The new British invasion
Twisted Automotive and Ginetta are seemingly set to share more than just a fondness for Yorkshire Tea. As part of its American expansion, Ginetta has acquired a controlling interest in TMI Autotech.
Located in South Boston, Virginia, TMI Autotech hosts a 60,000 square-foot facility. This is the same location that has formed the base for Twisted Automotive’s North America operation.
TMI Autotech has also produced versions of the Ariel Atom and Nomad for U.S. customers.
It means that Ginetta will have access to an experienced outfit, familiar with producing low-volume performance cars and bespoke vehicles.
Driving a global strategy
Ginetta aims to significantly expand its presence in North America, targeting customers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Along with the G55, the company’s core offering will be the new G56 GTA racing car, developed from the successful Ginetta Academy motorsport programme.
The G56 GTA features a 270 hp Ford 3.7-l V6 engine, paddle-shift gearbox, and even air conditioning. It makes for an accessible route to develop GT racing skills, and allows drivers to follow a Ginetta pathway up the motorsport ladder.
Lawrence Tomlinson, Ginetta’s chairman, commented that: “With the creation of Ginetta North America, we will be able to provide our North American customers with a whole new level of support and service on the ground here in the US.”
He added that expansion is “a key pillar in our global growth plan”, and that details of new U.S. sales agents will be announced “in the near future”.
The Ford Fiesta has been revealed as the nation’s most popular car for learner drivers. That’s according to a new learner driver report.
This comes as the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) prepares for driving tests to restart in England and Wales. Tests will be allowed to restart on 12 April 2021 at the earliest, although this date is subject to change.
It’s no surprise to find the Fiesta at the top of the list for learner drivers. The supermini is the UK’s best-selling car, so there’s always a ready supply of used cars to choose from. It’s also one of the best all-rounders, offering a great blend of space, efficiency and value for money.
Top 10 most common cars for learner drivers
Ford Fiesta
Vauxhall Corsa
Volkswagen Polo
Volkswagen Golf
Ford Focus
Vauxhall Astra
Mini Hatch
Fiat 500
Renault Clio
Toyota Yaris
Veygo, the company behind the learner driver report, found that it costs, on average, around £1,370 to learn to drive. Lessons account for £1,237.50 of this, based on 45 sessions at £27.50 per hour of tuition.
A provisional driving licence costs £34 online (£43 by post), while the theory and driving tests cost £23 and £62 respectively. The cost is higher for tests taken on evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
‘Lack of professional advice’
Gunnar Peters, Veygo CEO, said: “The pandemic has changed the way we learn to drive massively, with many lessons and tests being cancelled due to lockdown and many driving instructors being unable to work.
“We’ve seen increased demand for learner driver insurance for private practise as a result. This has put pressure on learner drivers, as they’ve had a lack of professional advice and relied on family members to teach them to drive.”
You can only take driving lessons with members of your household or support bubble. It must be travel for work, education or other essential journeys.
The Mecum Glendale 2021 collector car auction saw some 1,200 vehicles cross the block, with key lots attracting major bids.
As one of the flagship selections for the Arizona sale, the 20-strong Steve Todhunter Collection did not disappoint.
After the hammer had fallen for the final time, the collection had amassed sales totalling more than $5.38 million.
Italian stallions lead the pack
Ex-Roger Penske Ferrari F12tdf from the Steve Todhunter Collection
Leading the bids from the Steve Todhunter Collection was a 2016 Ferrari F12tdf. Originally owned by motorsport legend Roger Penske, the Rosso Corsa supercar was predicted to achieve between $900,000 and $1 million on the block.
A price of $880,000 for the 739 horsepower machine came close to the target, and made it the second most-expensive car sold in Glendale.
Other highlights from the Todhunter Collection included a rare Saleen S7 Twin Turbo, which sold for $605,000.
One of five Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series cars made in Fire Opal Red achieved $451,000.
Classic Corvette takes the top sale
Top-selling 1967 Chevrolet Corvette
While much of the Todhunter Collection was focussed on modern Ferraris, classic muscle cars also made an appearance. One of two 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429s sold for $385,000, with another hitting $225,000.
American metal would account for the overall top-selling vehicle from the Mecum Glendale auction. Not part of a collection, a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette fitted with an L88 427-cubic inch V-8 engine, saw a winning bid of $2,695,000.
Being one 20 L88 Corvettes produced in 1967, and the only known Sunfire Yellow L88 Corvette in existence, helped the bids.
A ten-year restoration, retaining original components, have seen this Corvette receive numerous awards. These include the coveted Duntov Mark of Excellence from the NCRS, and Triple Diamond Certification at the 2018 Corvette Nationals.
Learner drivers face a wait of up to five months to take driving tests, according to the Daily Mirror.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) must clear a backlog of 420,000 cancelled tests following a year of restrictions and lockdown measures.
Driving lessons will restart in England on 12 April 2021 at the earliest, although the government points out that this is subject to change. Driving tests are scheduled to restart on 22 April 2021.
Emergency driving tests are available for critical workers in England and Wales. To qualify, you must work for the NHS in health or social care, the emergency services or a local council.
DVSA hires new staff
To help clear the backlog of driving tests, the DVSA has hired 300 extra examiners to join the existing 1,675. A spokesperson for the DVSA told the Daily Mirror: “Candidates affected by the suspension are automatically being booked on to the next available test at their chosen centre.
“As soon as it is safe DVSA will increase the number of driving and theory tests available.”
Carly Brookfield of the Driving Instructor Association said: “What these numbers don’t tell you is how many driving tests have been cancelled time and time again. There’s a huge worry among pupils that if they fail a test, how long will it be before they get a retest?
“The DVSA will argue that people will try to cheat. But so many testing bodies are going online using technology that monitors individuals.”
A theory test costs £23 for cars, and the driving test costs £62 on weekdays or £75 on evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays.
Driving tests in England, Wales and Scotland
There are regional variations in England, Wales and Scotland.
England: car driving tests will restart on 22 April 2021
Scotland: driving tests will restart in areas as they move back into protection level three or lower
Wales: car driving tests will restart on 22 April 2021
Visit the government website to check the latest information, what to do when you take your driving test and how to book online.
The Vantage will this year serve as an official Safety Car in Formula 1 and the new Vantage F1 Edition has been created to capitalise on this.
The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 has been given an extra 25hp, taking it to 535hp, and there is a full package of chassis and aerodynamic upgrades.
Aston Martin says the project’s aim has been to “significantly improve lap time performance”.
Deliveries of the car, which will be offered both as a coupe and roadster, begin in May 2021 with prices from £142,000.
“Performance is at the heart of every Aston Martin, but when it wears an F1 badge, it has to be a truly exceptional car,” said CEO Tobias Moers.
“I set the engineering team a tough target, as I was insistent that gains in performance came via genuine improvements in the car’s dynamics, and not by fitting track-optimised tyres.
“The results speak for themselves.”
This car, adds Aston Martin, is the first model to benefit directly from new boss Moers’ input.
Vantage F1 Edition
As well as more power, the eight-speed automatic gearbox has been optimised to speed up shift times and make it feel more direct.
This “allows for finer control when the driver is balancing the car at its limit of traction”.
The front structure has been stiffened to improve steering feel, dampers have been reworked and the spring rate has been increased.
Wheels grow by an inch to 21-inch (for the first time on a Vantage), with bespoke Pirelli tyres, promising greater driver feedback in on-limit handling.
There’s also a full aero kit that delivers positive front and rear downforce – and a total of 200kg more downforce at top speed.
And colours? Choose from the Aston Martin Racing Green as featured on the F1 Safety Car – in either satin or gloss – or Jet Black or Lunar White.
Inside, black leather and grey Alcantara can be offset with a contrast stripe and stitching in black, grey red or… of course, Aston Martin Lime Green.
Eager British people are reportedly stepping up internet searches for driving trip ideas now the government has announced its roadmap out of lockdown.
Searches for ‘UK drives’ are up 92 percent, ‘Sunday drives’ are up 46 percent and ‘best driving routes’ are up 44 percent since the planned lifting of restrictions was announced.
Experts believe the trend reflects British motorists’ eagerness to escape and explore the country without having to spend a night away from home.
Indeed, BMW says it may herald a full-on revival of the Sunday drive, as people have taken stock during the pandemic and started to appreciate the smaller things.
The company commissioned fashion designer Patrick Grant to create an entertaining series of videos on how to plan the perfect stylish Sunday drive: getting out, how to dress and the simple art of it.
“We’re lucky in this country that most people live 30 minutes from somewhere spectacularly beautiful that makes our soul feel better,” said Mr Grant.
“The Sunday drive is the perfect opportunity, to get dressed up, plan a route, make a beautiful picnic and spend time out on the road in nature.”
It seems ever-growing numbers of motorists are thinking exactly the same and planning Sunday drives of their own to look forward to.
Six Sunday driving route ideas
Helpfully, the company has also come up with six Sunday driving routes of its own, to help motorists start to plan their day trips as lockdown restrictions ease:
The Forest of Bowland: 107 miles, 4 hours 7 minutes
Starting at Marshaw, travel east across Dunsop Bridge towards Slaidburn, taking in the sights of the Forest of Bowland. From Slaidburn, head north towards Bentham before heading east through Settle and Malham, where you can enjoy vistas up to Malham Cove. From Malham, head west through Langcliffe before driving to Reedby’s Lane and then back south, finishing your drive at Whitewell.
From the circuit, head east towards Colwyn Bay then south past Adventure Parc Snowdonia (home to the world’s first inland surfing pool and longest zip wire in Europe) to Betws-y-Coed; then left onto the A453 which is start of the infamous ‘Evo triangle’, then a drive into Snowdonia and back up towards Anglesey.
Gleneagles Hotel and Perthshire: 90 miles, 2 hours 30 minutes
Head north from the hotel towards Comrie then enjoy a big loop around two lochs – Loch Earn and Loch Tay – on beautiful open roads then south across the glens towards Crieff and then the hotel.
Oxford and the south Cotswolds: 75 miles, 2 hours 15 minutes
From St Giles in Oxford, head north to Woodstock and Blenheim Palace, then take a west route towards Charlbury and a fantastic open road towards Bourton on the Water, then head south towards Lechlade and Farringdon before returning to Oxford.
North Wessex Downs AONB: 44 miles, 1 hour 20 minutes
From Wantage, head south on the sweeping B494, before heading west towards Lambourn and Ashbury and some fantastic twisty roads (with views of the Uffington White Horse), then back towards Wantage.
West Cornwall – north coast: 38 miles, 1 hour 40 minutes
From St Ives, along the beautiful B336 coastal road towards Zennor and then Sennen, Land’s End, then looping back along the south coast via The Minnack Theatre at Porthcurno, Lamorna, Mousehole and Penzance (St Michael’s Mount) before heading back up to St Ives.
