Young Driver training’s Suzuki Swift switch

Gareth Herincx

1 min ago
Auto News

Young Driver Bonnie, aged 10, poses with a new Suzuki Swift

The UK’s largest pre-17s driver-trainer has invested more than £2 million to purchase 170 new Suzuki Swift cars.

Young Driver, which gives more than 150,000 lessons a year for 10-17-year-olds at 72 sites, has just taken delivery of its first batch of Swift Hybrid models.

And after 16 years and nearly 1.5 million lessons, Young Driver has been responsible for dramatically reducing accident rates among its graduates, with only 3.3% of former students being involved in accidents in the first six months after passing their driving test, versus the national average of 20%.

“After reviewing all our options to replace the existing Vauxhall Corsa fleet, the Swift was the clear winner,” said Ian Mulingani, Young Driver’s Managing Director.

“Our decision was based around three priorities: product quality and durability; low C0₂ emissions and fuel economy; and – of course – driveability and ease of operation for our novice drivers.

“The Swift stood head and shoulders above its other rivals so we’re now taking on a new fleet of mild hybrid cars that is significantly greener and more economical, easier to drive, better equipped, and, according to CAP HPI’s predictions, will retain an excellent 55% of its value after three years and 36,000 miles.”

He added: “What finally tipped the balance for us, though, was product durability. The fact that Suzuki was rated third out of 31 brands in the What Car? 2024 Reliability Survey, says it all, really. We also have the reassurance of a Suzuki warranty of up to seven years and 100,000 miles.”

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Ferrari 250 LM wins prestigious classic car award

Gareth Herincx

23 mins ago
Auto News

1964 Ferrari 250 LM in Paris

A stunning 1964 Ferrari 250 LM has been named winner of the 10th annual The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award 2024.

Presented during an awards ceremony at The Peninsula Paris, the distinction recognises the pinnacle of classic automotive design and engineering.

The Ferrari, chosen from a select group of nine vehicles that won awards at the past year’s major concours events, became eligible for consideration after winning the Best in Show honour at the Cavallino Classic in January 2024.

“I am truly humbled to receive this distinguished award,” said owner Chris Cox.

1964 Ferrari 250 LM

Originally unveiled in Paris in November 1963, the Ferrari 250 LM (Le Mans) is a Grand Touring version of the mid-engined Ferrari 250 P.

Featuring a body designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, it was intended to replace the 250 GTO, one of Ferrari’s most successful race cars.

Although Ferrari was unable to obtain LM approval in the GT class, the model achieved significant success when a 250 LM won the 1965 Le Mans 24 Hours and the 1965 International Trophy for GT Prototypes.

One of only 32 produced, this particular 250 LM enjoyed an accomplished racing career from 1965 to 1967, with notable victories at Brands Hatch, Snetterton, and Silverstone in 1966. The car later participated in two of motorsport’s most iconic endurance races – the 24 Hours of Daytona in 1966 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1968.

Acquired by its current owner in 2018, the 1964 Ferrari 250 LM is a celebrated piece of Ferrari history.

Also competing for the award were eight other exquisite classic cars: a 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Spider, a 1957 Ferrari 335 S, a 1937/1946 Delahaye 145 Cabriolet, a 1947 Delahaye 135MS Narval Cabriolet, a 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports, a 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Roadster, a 1928 Bugatti Type 35C Grand Prix, and a 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Convertible.

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How to check your tyres after hitting a pothole

Road pothole

It’s National Pothole Day and Tyresafe is highlighting the importance of pulling over, provided it is safe to do so, to perform vital tyre checks to ensure the safety of their continued journey after hitting a pothole.

The road safety charity is urging motorists to not only inspect their tyres as soon as it is safe to do so, after an impact, but to also reduce the risk of an incident related to pothole impacts by ensuring that their tyres are appropriately inflated to decrease the risk of damage to the tyre, wheel and suspension.

As part of the Pothole Partnership, the AA can reveal that pothole related incidents fell by 0.67% in 2024 when compared to the previous year.

However, 2024 figures are still the third highest since 2017, with an estimated 1700 road users facing damage to their vehicles as a result of road defects.

Bald, worn and damaged tyres - © Gareth Herincx

In 2024, the AA handled 643,318 incidents of tyre, wheel, steering, and suspension damage caused by potholes, signifying a substantial impact on approximately two million vehicles nationwide due to inadequate road maintenance.

Potholes can cause unseen damage to tyres and wheels, putting drivers, passengers, and other road users at risk.

How to check your tyres after hitting a pothole

  • Inspect for visible damage – Look for cuts, bulges, or tears in the tyre sidewall.
  • Check tyre pressure – A drop in pressure could indicate internal damage.
  • Look at wheel alignment – Steering pulling to one side may indicate alignment issues.
  • Seek professional advice – When in doubt, consult a tyre specialist.

BMW 3 Series at a tyre fitters

TyreSafe emphasises the importance of properly inflated tyres, which play a crucial role in dampening impacts from potholes.

Properly inflated tyres act as a cushion, helping to absorb the impact when a vehicle hits a road defect, in turn protecting the wheel and suspension. In addition, properly inflated tyres also support the tyre’s structure through the correct internal air pressure.

If a tyre is incorrectly inflated, road users are at an increased risk of experiencing a blowout, caused by the tyre’s sidewall striking the rim.

Tyre pressure also plays a significant role in protecting other vehicle components that can succumb to damage when striking a pothole, including the suspension, shocks and struts, springs, control arms and ball joints.

“Potholes are not just a frustration for drivers; they’re a serious safety hazard,” said Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe Chair.

“Raising awareness of the dangers posed by potholes is essential. Regular tyre checks and maintenance after hitting a pothole can help mitigate risks and reduce the likelihood of future incidents. If you’re unsure whether your tyre or wheel is damaged, always seek professional advice.”

Tested: All-season tyres for year-round peace of mind

Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons tyres

We road test a set of Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons tyres…

Unless you have access to state-of-the-art tyre evaluation facilities, there’s no better time to test new rubber than a straight swap with an existing set on a car you know well.

Last year I bought a tidy 2010 BMW 3 Series with just 65,000 miles on the clock.

Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons tyres - BMW 3 Series

For a used car, it had very few minus points. Unfortunately, the tyres were the biggest issue. A mix of two brands (one recognisable), it was doubtful the tread on any of them would last until the next MOT, due a few months later.

Now, living in a Somerset has its bonuses, but when extreme weather hits, driving around on the roads and lanes – especially in a rear-wheel drive BMW – can be hazardous. Even more so on borderline tyres.

So, what better time than to try a set of all-season tyres, which are designed to provide a happy medium come rain, snow or shine?

Step forward Davanti Tyres – a new and innovative brand with tyres designed by engineers in the UK and produced in one of the world’s most advanced plants.

Unless you’re a fan of Everton FC or Wigan Warriors, you may not have heard of the Merseyside-headquartered company.

One of the UK’s leading mid-range tyre brands, Davanti is the official tyre partner of the English Premier League side and a shirt sponsor for the Super League rugby giant.

BMW 3 Series at a tyre fitters

Launched in 2015, its full range of tyres are now sold in more than 70 countries.

Davanti was keen for me to try its tyres, so a few months after buying the BMW 3 Series, it was treated to a new set of Alltoura 4-Seasons.

Key features of the Alltoura 4-Seasons include:

  • Directional tread pattern to ensure reliable winter traction
  • Specially-formulated compound to deliver an engaging drive with safe and stable performance across a range of temperatures experienced with the changing seasons
  • A design to allow for efficient clearing of water and extra grip on snow and ice while maintaining tread block stability on dry roads

And of course, the beauty of all-season tyres is that you avoid the hassle and cost of swapping tyres (summer and winter) twice a year, especially if you live in a region where winters are harsh and snow and ice are a regular occurrence.

BMW 3 Series fitted with Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons tyres

As I drove away from the fitters, the difference between the Alltoura 4-Seasons and the previous set of rubber misfits was immediately noticeable, with the combination of a softer ride, a reduction in road noise and improved braking performance.

As the months have passed, I’ve experienced driving the car in different conditions – even some early snow.

It would be an exaggeration to say that the wet-weather grip is in the top league, but then BMWs of this era have always been entertaining in the handling department, especially in the rain.

That said, the tyres only begin to lose traction when really pushed in the wet and they cope well on wet grass. For the most part, the Alltoura 4-Seasons stood out for their stability and predictability.

Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons tyres

I’ve yet to experience them in deep snow, but their performance after a light covering was surprisingly good, so watch this space.

Clearly, they won’t be as effective as winter tyres in thick snow, or summer tyres in very hot temperatures, but they are better than regular summer tyres in the moderate winter conditions we mostly encounter in the UK.

Incidentally, like winter tyres, Alltoura 4-Seasons carry the 3PMSF symbol (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake) on the sidewall, which shows they have been certified as safe and capable in snow.

Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons tyres

So, if you’re looking for a mid-range year-round tyre from a recognisable brand and you don’t have the budget for a premium name, I’d say Davanti Alltoura 4-Seasons are definitely worth considering.

It’s relatively early days for Davanti, and it’s still not one of the most popular choices when searching for tyres. Indeed, I could only find one fitter (with a handful of branches) locally which supplies Davanti’s all-season tyre. I’m sure that will change in time.

For now, look out for name the next time you need new tyres and try Davanti for yourself.

Simple safety tips for driving in severe winter weather

Gareth Herincx

20 mins ago
Auto News

Peugeot-208-driving-n-the-snow

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging motorists to take extra care, with winter weather predicted across most parts of the UK.

Road journeys are more difficult and treacherous when there is ice on roads or a fall of snow, so GEM is encouraging drivers to plan ahead and be ready to postpone journeys if necessary.

This avoids the risk of getting stuck or breaking down, and helps reduce pressure on emergency services and breakdown providers who are likely to be at full stretch in winter weather, says GEM.

If you have to travel, here are some simple safety tips:

  • Ensure your car is properly equipped for the likely conditions. In particular, ensure the battery is in the best possible shape.
  • Listen for weather updates and plan your travel accordingly.
  • Ensure your windscreen and all other windows are completely clear of snow and ice before you set out. Give your lights and number plate a good wipe, too.
  • Prepare a set of essential items to take with you, including shovel, fully charged mobile phone, torch, ice scraper, food, water, jump leads, first aid kit, warm clothes and a supply of sand or gravel to assist with grip if your wheels are spinning.
  • In winter conditions, keep your speeds down, leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front, and be ready for a sudden, rapid deterioration in conditions.
  • Keep a safe distance behind gritter trucks and snowploughs. Only pass when it’s safe to do so.
  • Let someone know where you are going and when to expect you home.
  • Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged before you set off, just in case you need to call for help. Take your charger with you to ensure you don’t run out of charge.
  • Remember that driving in conditions like this is hard work. You are likely to become tired much more quickly than in less challenging conditions. So ensure you build in breaks on your journeys.

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