# Industry News > Latest industry News and Updates ## Posts - [Beyond Advertising: Why Experiential Marketing Is Reshaping Brand Engagement](https://industry-news.biz/beyond-advertising-why-experiential-marketing-is-reshaping-brand-engagement/): Marketing has steadily shifted from simply delivering messages to creating meaningful interactions. Audiences are no longer satisfied with passive exposure to ads; they want to engage, participate, and remember. This shift has led to the rise of experiential marketing, where brands design immersive experiences that leave lasting impressions rather than fleeting clicks. Behind these experiences lies a combination of creativity and engineering. From mobile activation units to interactive installations, experiential campaigns rely on carefully fabricated environments that allow brands to meet consumers in real-world settings. This intersection of marketing and industrial design is what makes experiential strategies both impactful and […] - [What drives customer abuse in dealerships](https://industry-news.biz/what-drives-customer-abuse-in-dealerships/): AM’s recent poll highlighting the frequency that dealership staff face unreasonable or abusive customer behaviour should give the industry pause for thought. The findings point to growing pressure on frontline teams and an increasingly difficult environment for managing customer interactions, online reputation and manufacturer-driven performance measures, writes Fraser Brown of MotorVise. Most situations escalate over time While wider societal factors may be at play, the reality is that most abusive situations don’t start out that way – they escalate over time. In my experience, escalation is often driven by frustration fuelled by poor communication, not the original issue. Previous research […] - [Automotive Management's EV Retailing Week is coming soon](https://industry-news.biz/automotive-managements-ev-retailing-week-is-coming-soon/): Bauer Consumer Media Ltd, Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited, Company number: 1394141; Registered office: Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing, Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern, 75 Hampstead Road, London NW1 2PL All registered in England and Wales. VAT no 918 5617 01 H Bauer Publishing are authorised and regulated for credit broking by the FCA (Ref No: 845898). Owner and beneficial owner: Yvonne Bauer, Heinz Bauer Automotive Management magazine: Newspress Awards’ Automotive Business Publication of the Year 2020 - [Kerr's Tyres Group acquires Farmer Autocare](https://industry-news.biz/kerrs-tyres-group-acquires-farmer-autocare/): Kerr’s Tyres Group has announced the acquisition of Farmer Autocare, in a move which represents part of a significant expansion strategy. Farmer Autocare operates 21 sites offering car maintenance and servicing across Scotland, employing just under 200 people. Founded in 2003 by Sir Tom Farmer, who had also founded Kwik-Fit which he sold for £1bn in 1999, it will continue to operate in Scotland under its existing management team, led by managing director Colin McNeill. Ensure you always get AM insight. Make us a preferred source of news on Google. Kerr’s Tyres Group, based in Belfast, operates across Ireland with more than […] - [Eni signs $579m loan with EU for new biorefinery in Italy](https://industry-news.biz/eni-signs-579m-loan-with-eu-for-new-biorefinery-in-italy/): Eni has signed a 15-year loan for €500 million with the European Investment Bank (EIB) for a new biorefinery in Italy. The financing will be used to convert part of the Sannazzaro de’ Burgondi refinery into a biofuel production facility, supporting the decarbonisation of the transport sector. The project involves converting the refinery’s Hydrocracker (HDC2) unit using Ecofining technology and building a pre-treatment plant for waste materials like animal fats and used cooking oil, as well as waste from the agri-food industry. Eni’s Ecofining technology produces HVO, a biofuel made from renewable feedstocks. Pure HVO can be used in approved […] - [Decline in new LCV registrations reported by SMMT](https://industry-news.biz/decline-in-new-lcv-registrations-reported-by-smmt/): The UK new LCV market saw registrations fall by 3.4% year-on-year in March, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The total of 49,505 new LCVs registered represented the weakest March since 2023, which the SMMT said was disappointing given the importance of the number plate change month. Ensure you always get AM insight. Make us a preferred source of news on Google. The picture of decline was not universal, with the market-leading 2.5-3.5 tonne van segment up by 8.7% year-on-year to 34,805 registrations, 2.0-2.5 tonne vans up by 2.3% to 8,365, and 4x4s up by […] - [Five projects to share $13m to accelerate decarbonisation in Australia ](https://industry-news.biz/five-projects-to-share-13m-to-accelerate-decarbonisation-in-australia/): Five projects in Australia have won a share of A$13 million (£6.8m) to help accelerate decarbonisation, lower energy costs and support low carbon supply chains. The funding is being provided by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) under the now-closed National Industrial Transformation (NIT) Programme, which supported projects aimed at reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions at existing or planned industrial facilities. Projects that will share the funding include the electrification of a brewhouse, showcase of clean technology for automated laundry sorting and washing that reduces energy and the replacement of a 40-year old gas-fired log furnace with a fully […] - [Stellantis dealers prepare for more recall work](https://industry-news.biz/stellantis-dealers-prepare-for-more-recall-work/): Stellantis UK has issued a recall of 44,000 cars across its Peugeot, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Vauxhall, Alfa Romeo, Jeep and Fiat brands to remedy an issue which could cause overheating and potential engine fires. The affected vehicles were built between 2023 and 2026, the vehicle manufacturer said. The cars included are powered by its 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine A spokesperson for Stellantis said: “Having customer safety and satisfaction at the core of its values, Stellantis is voluntarily recalling 44,000 vehicles in the UK due to a potential issue concerning the clearance between the gasoline particulate filter (GPF) pipe and the belt […] - [New 'groundbreaking' project to use sustainable UK steel for wind turbine towers](https://industry-news.biz/new-groundbreaking-project-to-use-sustainable-uk-steel-for-wind-turbine-towers/): New “groundbreaking” research aimed at transforming the design and manufacture of steel onshore wind turbine towers and making them more efficient and sustainable has been launched. The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult is leading the research and development team from companies including Tata Steel UK, RWE, Bute Energy, Hutchinson Engineering and Ledwood. Most wind turbine towers currently built in the UK rely on imported thick steel plate for construction, creating a potential bottleneck for renewable energy projects. The latest project is expected to support the development of a tower design that uses thin strip, coil-based, low-emission steel, produced in electric […] - [Retail drives UK new car market's best month since 2019](https://industry-news.biz/retail-drives-uk-new-car-markets-best-month-since-2019/): The UK new car market saw 6.6% year-on-year growth in March, with more vehicles registered than during any month since 2019. The crucial number plate change month also saw a new record set for EV registration volume. Ensure you always get AM insight. Make us a preferred source of news on Google. A significant role in the growth of the overall market, which saw a total of 380,627 new vehicles registered, was played by the private retail market, which saw 10.1% growth, for a 42.7% market share. The fleet market saw 3.5% growth for a 54.9% market share, and the business […] - [Eco Wave Power and Shell complete wave energy pilot in LA](https://industry-news.biz/eco-wave-power-and-shell-complete-wave-energy-pilot-in-la/): Eco Wave Power and Shell have completed their wave energy pilot programme at the Port of Los Angeles. The successful execution of the pilot, which included feasibility to real-world operation tests, marks a significant step towards the commercialisation of the company’s onshore wave energy technology. Eco Wave Power claims its technology is designed to deliver cost-efficient, renewable energy from existing coastal infrastructure, in addition to being able to deploy without the complexity and costs associated with offshore installations. Inna Braverman, Founder and CEO of Eco Wave Power, said: “Successfully completing this project with Shell is a strong validation of our […] - [EU greenlights €5bn Danish state aid for offshore wind energy](https://industry-news.biz/eu-greenlights-e5bn-danish-state-aid-for-offshore-wind-energy/): The European Commission has approved a €5 billion (£4.35bn) scheme to support the development of offshore wind energy in Denmark. It will support the construction and operation of two offshore wind farms – Hesselø and North Sea I Mid, which will have capacities of 0.8GW and 1GW respectively. The combined annual production of the two wind farms will represent the equivalent of around 25% of total electricity production in Denmark in 2025. The Commission found the Danish scheme meets the conditions of the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF) and accelerates the transition towards a net zero economy. Teresa […] - [UK-focused flexible power platform Supernova Power launched](https://industry-news.biz/uk-focused-flexible-power-platform-supernova-power-launched/): A new UK-focused flexible power platform, Supernova Power, has been launched following the acquisition and merger of two businesses. Private capital platform InfraVia has acquired a majority stake in Mercia Power Response and Balance Power Projects – with the merger of the two companies forming the flexible power platform. Supernova Power will be scaled to provide a suite of capabilities across development, construction, operations, energy management and financing, allowing for the accelerated buildout of the existing portfolio of battery storage sites and further acquisitions across flexible power technologies. It aims to deliver more than 2GW of capacity by 2035 and […] - [First large-scale biomethanol bunkering for global shipping launched](https://industry-news.biz/first-large-scale-biomethanol-bunkering-for-global-shipping-launched/): Shanghai Electric has delivered what is claimed to be the first large-scale biomethanol bunkering for international shipping. The company successfully bunkered bioethanol onto the container CMA CGM OSMIUM at Shanghai’s Yangshan Port this month as part of its Taonan project in China, which is the country’s first large-scale commercial biomethanol facility. The initial phase has an annual output of 50,000 tons, with plans for further expansion. The initiative integrates proprietary technologies, including oxygen-blown pressurised biomass gasification, flexible wind-powered hydrogen production and CO2-rich syngas-to-methanol synthesis, to create a fully integrated biomethanol production system. Biomethanol delivers a significant reduction in full life-cycle […] - [Octopus Energy launches 50% cheaper on-street EV charging](https://industry-news.biz/octopus-energy-launches-50-cheaper-on-street-ev-charging/): Octopus Energy has launched a new offer that unlocks 50% cheaper electric vehicle (EV) kerbside charging for drivers. New customers can now charge on-street from as little as 22.5p per kWh – 7p a mile – through Octopus Electric Vehicles (OEV), an EV-only leasing company, with the savings made by powering through Octopus Electroverse. A full charge for a typical MG4 EV would cost around £16 at the discounted rate, around 7p per mile. That’s only around 5p per mile more than smart charging at home and half the cost of running a petrol Volkswagen Golf at around 17p per […] - [Soma Energy raises $7m to use AI to unlock grid capacity for data centres](https://industry-news.biz/soma-energy-raises-7m-to-use-ai-to-unlock-grid-capacity-for-data-centres/): Soma Energy has announced it has raised $7 million (£5.29m) to scale its AI-powered platform that unlocks existing grid capacity for data centres. The company’s platform optimises how distributed energy resources, battery storage and generation assets interact with the wholesale electricity market. This helps power producers and data centres operate more efficiently, reduce costs and unlock additional capacity. The platform unlocks capacity already present in the grid but currently underutilised, delivering power to energy-intensive facilities in months rather than years, at a fraction of the cost of traditional alternatives. For data centres, Soma Energy connects onsite generation, storage and load […] - [World Bank backs climate-smart infrastructure in Uganda](https://industry-news.biz/world-bank-backs-climate-smart-infrastructure-in-uganda/): The World Bank has approved a programme to expand access to climate-smart infrastructure, services and jobs in Uganda, with $540 million (£409m) in financing. The six-year Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development (UCMID) programme will support 10 cities, 26 municipalities and 13 refugee-hosting districts and directly benefit around 5.6 million people, including 600,000 refugees. It will deliver improved access to essential urban infrastructure and services such as all-weather roads, stormwater drainage, street lighting, public markets and other amenities. The projects will reduce flood risks, enhance mobility and improve public safety.  Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager for Uganda […] - [New simpler recycling rules introduced across England](https://industry-news.biz/new-simpler-recycling-rules-introduced-across-england/): New rules that are expected to make recycling simpler for consumers across England have come into force. Households will now have a maximum of four collections: food and garden waste, paper and card, dry recyclable materials like glass and plastic and residual waste, i.e. non-recyclable waste that is sent to landfill. The UK Government believes its Simpler Recycling scheme ends “years of confusion” over what goes in which bin and boost recycling rates whilst cutting the amount of waste sent to landfill or incineration. This will help reduce carbon emissions, cut environmental and societal impacts from waste disposal and support […] - [Northumbrian Water secures £400m to support business plan](https://industry-news.biz/northumbrian-water-secures-400m-to-support-business-plan/): Northumbrian Water has secured a £400 million equity investment to support the delivery of its business plan for the current five-year regulatory period. AMP8 is the water company’s largest and most ambitious plan dedicated to advancing customer service and environmental performance. CK Infrastructure Holdings (CKI) announced the company, CK Asset Holdings, Power Assets Holdings and CK Hutchinson Holdings completed the equity investment. The funding contributes to Northumbrian Water’s AMP8 capital programme of more than £4 billion across the North East, Essex and Suffolk – more than double the investment under AMP7. Andrew Hunter, Co-Managing Director of CKI and Chair of […] - [EU approves €6bn Italian state aid for renewable hydrogen](https://industry-news.biz/eu-approves-e6bn-italian-state-aid-for-renewable-hydrogen/): The European Commission has approved Italy’s €6 billion (£5.21m) state aid to support the production of renewable hydrogen. The aid will take the form of two-way contracts for difference, under which a strike price for hydrogen will be determined through a bidding process. If the price of an alternative fuel that would be used by the hydrogen consumers falls below that strike price, Italy will pay hydrogen producers the difference. If the price of the counterfactual fuel exceeds the strike price, the beneficiaries will pay the difference to the Italian state. The scheme will support the production of 200,000 tons […] - [New UK scheme to verify sustainable aviation fuel claims launched](https://industry-news.biz/new-uk-scheme-to-verify-sustainable-aviation-fuel-claims-launched/): A new scheme aimed at providing independent verification of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across the UK supply chain has been launched. Zemo Partnership announced the launch of RFAS Aviation, responding to a “critical industry need for a harmonised approach to verifying SAF traceability in the downstream fuel supply chain. It believes the absence of such a scheme has limited the ability of airline operators to demonstrate greenhouse gas emissions reductions under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and for fuel suppliers to provide SAF sustainability credentials to customers. RFAS Aviation – open to companies supplying SAF to the UK aviation […] - [4,100+ visits to businesses, schools and leisure centres save water and reduce costs in large-scale engagement by Water Plus](https://industry-news.biz/4100-visits-to-businesses-schools-and-leisure-centres-save-water-and-reduce-costs-in-large-scale-engagement-by-water-plus/): More than 4,100 visits have already been completed in a fresh collaborative approach – with sites engaged through business water retailer Water Plus and water-saving activities funded by United Utilities. Visits were to locations including nurseries, GPs, medical centres, Academies, Sixth Form Colleges, national supermarket stores, sports clubs, leisure centres and small businesses. These savings would cut more than £21,700 a week off water bill costs* and the water volume saved would keep a small UK town supplied, keeping water flowing for more than 7,500 people a day. ** Uptake of water saving opportunities continue to accelerate, increasing over the […] - [Used LCV market under pressure amid weak demand](https://industry-news.biz/used-lcv-market-under-pressure-amid-weak-demand/): New LCV registrations edged up in February but ongoing economic uncertainty, constrained supply and cautious fleet investment continue to shape a used van market where demand is selective and prices remain under pressure, reports Ken Brown, LCV Valuations Editor, Cap HPI  At 14,641 units, February 2026 new LCV registrations increased by 165 vehicles (+1.1%) compared with February 2025. While this modest increase is welcome, the continuing weakness in new LCV registrations largely reflects ongoing economic uncertainty, which continues to weigh heavily on business confidence. It appears that many fleet operators are deferring investment in new vehicles unless it is absolutely necessary. The […] - [Holtec's small modular reactor completes UK regulators' design assessment](https://industry-news.biz/holtecs-small-modular-reactor-completes-uk-regulators-design-assessment/): The government has confirmed Holtec’s small modular reactor (SMR) has successfully completed Step 2 of the UK regulators’ key design assessment. The second step started in August 2024 and involved a “comprehensive and rigorous” regulatory assessment, examining the fundamental adequacy of the reactor design and its safety, security and environmental protection documentation. In September 2025, Holtec – in partnership with EDF Energy and Tritax – announced plans to develop the SMR-300 at the former Cottam coal-fired power station in Nottinghamshire. The assessment by the Environment Agency, Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) found no fundamental safety, […] - [Kia UK appoints David Hilbert sales director](https://industry-news.biz/kia-uk-appoints-david-hilbert-sales-director/): David Hilbert will return to Kia UK as sales director next month taking responsibility for retail and fleet performance across passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Reporting to Simon Hetherington, commercial director at Kia UK, Hilbert will oversee sales operations while working closely with the brand’s dealer network to sustain recent growth. Kia UK ended 2025 as the fourth best-selling brand in the market, achieving a 5.6% market share with 113,436 vehicle registrations. This performance made the UK subsidiary Kia’s strongest market in Europe, with 2026 expected to mark the first full year of commercial vehicle sales alongside continued passenger car growth. […] - [Drax acquires UK-based asset optimisation platform Flexitricity](https://industry-news.biz/drax-acquires-uk-based-asset-optimisation-platform-flexitricity/): Drax has completed the acquisition of Flexitricity, a UK-based asset optimisation platform. The AI-enabled company provides optimisation and route-to-market services to owners of flexible energy assets, enabling them to participate in the wholesale energy, balancing and ancillary services markets. Based in Edinburgh, Flexitricity provides both front-of and behind-the-meter solutions for grid-scale assets as well as demand response services to over 900MW of operational assets, primarily battery energy storage systems (BESS), gas peakers, renewables and demand-side response. The acquisition is expected to support Drax’s plans to develop a gigawatt-scale pipeline of BESS projects and optimise third-party assets with the provision of route […] - [Trump administration orders retiring plant to stay open in Colorado ](https://industry-news.biz/trump-administration-orders-retiring-plant-to-stay-open-in-colorado/): The Trump administration has issued an emergency order to keep an ageing coal-fired power plant open in Colorado. Unit 1 of the Craig Station plant was scheduled to shut down at the end of 2025 but the government issued the order directing Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association and co-owners to ensure it remains available to operate. Following President Donald Trump’s re-election, coal plants across the US are reversing plans to shut down, with more than 17GW of generation capacity ordered to do so in 2025.  The order came into effect on 31st March 2026 and will run through to 28th June 2026. […] - [Vauxhall Grandland PHEV priced from £36,615](https://industry-news.biz/vauxhall-grandland-phev-priced-from-36615/): The Vauxhall Grandland range has been expanded with the addition of a plug-in hybrid powertrain with prices starting from £36,615 – matching the cost of the standard hybrid variant. The addition completes the Grandland range, which now spans fully electric, plug-in hybrid and 48V hybrid powertrains, giving customers a broader mix of options depending on usage and cost considerations. Price parity boosts appeal Crucially for dealers, the plug-in hybrid achieves price parity with the standard hybrid version, a move likely to support stronger uptake among company car drivers and private buyers weighing total cost of ownership. 5 The model delivers […] - [We’re absorbing £7M+ in costs to protect our customers.](https://industry-news.biz/were-absorbing-7m-in-costs-to-protect-our-customers/): I’ve been in energy long enough to know that the industry has a habit of making simple things complicated, and then using that complexity to avoid accountability. What’s happening now is one of the clearest examples I’ve seen. There’s a conversation happening in energy right now that most businesses are finding out about the hard way. A business signs an energy contract. They budget accordingly. Then a charge appears on the invoice – one that is significantly larger than anything they’d anticipated. And when they call to ask about it, the answer, packaged in various degrees of politeness, is: “We […] - [Broad Arrow reveals Global Icons spring sale](https://industry-news.biz/broad-arrow-reveals-global-icons-spring-sale/): Broad Arrow Auctions, driven by Hagerty, has confirmed the return of its Global Icons: Online series, with a spring sale set to feature more than 30 collector cars spanning multiple eras and marques. The Global Icons: Spring Online auction will run from 11 to 18 May, building on the success of the inaugural sale which achieved €18.3m in total sales and a 90% sell-through rate. Second sale builds momentum “Our inaugural Global Icons: Online sale was a spectacular success, achieving €18.3 million in total sales with an impressive sell-through rate of 90 per cent,” says Joe Twyman, VP of sales for […] - [Masdar and TotalEnergies in $2.2bn renewable energy tie-up in Asia](https://industry-news.biz/masdar-and-totalenergies-in-2-2bn-renewable-energy-tie-up-in-asia/): Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar and TotalEnergies have announced a 50/50 joint venture to accelerate renewable energy projects across Asia. The $2.2 billion (£1.6bn) partnership will merge the companies’ onshore renewable energy activities in nine Asian countries – Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Uzbekistan. The joint venture will bring together a portfolio of 3GW of operational capacity, with a further 6GW under development, including solar, wind and battery storage projects. Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies said: “We are delighted with the signing of this agreement with Masdar, which brings together […] - [Carcare cuts JLR Swansea vehicle prep by 7 days](https://industry-news.biz/carcare-cuts-jlr-swansea-vehicle-prep-by-7-days/): Sinclair Group’s Jaguar Land Rover Swansea dealership has cut vehicle preparation times by more than seven days after adopting the Carcare workflow platform. The dealership, which sells around 650 new and 650 used vehicles each year and operates a workshop of 18 technicians supported by a five-strong parts team, introduced Carcare 18 months ago to tackle fragmented communication and limited visibility across departments. According to Jamie Callan, head of business at Jaguar Land Rover Swansea, the site had previously relied on a mix of WhatsApp groups, emails and spreadsheets to track vehicle progress, creating inefficiencies and undermining confidence in the […] - [America’s Auto Auction buys G3 in UK move](https://industry-news.biz/americas-auto-auction-buys-g3-in-uk-move/): America’s Auto Auction has acquired G3 Remarketing, trading as G3 Vehicle Auctions, in a move that gives the auction business its first footprint outside the United States. The deal includes G3’s auction sites in Castleford and Bedford and marks a significant expansion for America’s Auto Auction as it looks to grow alongside established operators in new markets. Founded in 2009 by Matt Dale and Amanda Holtby, G3 Vehicle Auctions has built its position in the UK remarketing sector through a mix of physical auction operations and digital capability. Remarketing expansion America’s Auto Auction said it had chosen G3 because of […] - [Fuel costs drive UK driver anxiety and cutbacks](https://industry-news.biz/fuel-costs-drive-uk-driver-anxiety-and-cutbacks/): Rising fuel costs are driving widespread anxiety among motorists and beginning to impact wider automotive businesses as new data highlights growing financial pressure on both drivers and the sector. Research from Close Brothers Motor Finance shows two in five (42%) Brits are concerned about rising petrol and diesel prices, with one in five (20%) saying the situation is causing stress and anxiety about everyday travel. Drivers cutting journeys  The data suggests the impact is already reshaping behaviour, with nearly a third (32%) of drivers cutting back on journeys to reduce fuel usage. At the same time, 12% say they have reduced […] - [Autotrader launches green car ratings system](https://industry-news.biz/autotrader-launches-green-car-ratings-system/): Autotrader has introduced a new sustainability rating across its editorial new car reviews, with just six models achieving the maximum five-star score at launch. The new ‘green ratings’ are now live on the platform and are designed to help consumers better understand the full environmental impact of a vehicle, beyond tailpipe emissions. The launch marks a shift in how vehicle sustainability is communicated to consumers, moving from a focus on emissions alone to a broader, lifecycle-based assessment. Among the first models to receive top marks are the Polestar 4, Alpine A290, Dacia Spring Cargo, Nissan Leaf, Renault 4 and Renault […] - [Keyloop completes Motortech.ai deal, accelerates AI](https://industry-news.biz/keyloop-completes-motortech-ai-deal-accelerates-ai/): Keyloop has completed its acquisition of Motortech.ai, confirming regulatory clearance and formally bringing the UK-based AI specialist into its automotive retail platform strategy. The deal, first announced in January, is designed to accelerate the rollout of AI-driven customer engagement tools across Keyloop’s Fusion automotive retail platform, with Motortech.ai’s conversational agent AIME now set for full integration. AI integration moves forward Tom Kilroy, chief executive of Keyloop, said: “The acquisition of Motortech.ai and integration of AIME across Fusion is a significant milestone in our AI strategy. By embedding purpose-built conversational AI directly into our platform, we’re giving retailers an always-on capability […] - [FixMyCar CEO warns on auto repair price wars](https://industry-news.biz/fixmycar-ceo-warns-on-auto-repair-price-wars/): The so-called ‘race to the bottom’ has dominated the auto repair industry for many years. It’s a destructive cycle, harming both auto repair businesses and their customers, that is stunting the potential our industry, writes Amanda Webb, CEO at FixMyCar. Driver preferences are changing and provides the perfect catalyst for systematic change in our industry, but auto repair businesses must come together if we are to make it happen. Why is change necessary in auto repair? The ‘race to bottom’ in auto repair builds an intense pressure on businesses to lower prices to beat competitors and attract more customers. However, we’ve […] - [Ombudsman targets faster, clearer service](https://industry-news.biz/ombudsman-targets-faster-clearer-service/): The Financial Ombudsman Service (FoS) has set out plans to become quicker, clearer and easier to use as it accelerates a major overhaul of its operations. Publishing its 2026/27 Plans and Budget, the Ombudsman said it is reshaping how it handles complaints to reduce friction for consumers and businesses, while ensuring it remains an effective alternative to the courts. Push for faster decisions The transformation comes after a period of sustained high demand, which placed pressure on turnaround times and customer experience. Case volumes at the FoS are reported to be now stabilising and it said it is expecting to receive 199,000 […] - [IGA celebrates UK launch of SERMI scheme](https://industry-news.biz/iga-celebrates-uk-launch-of-sermi-scheme/): The SERMI scheme has launched in the UK today (April 1), following what is described as a 17-year campaign for fair data access for independent garages. The scheme allows independent garages to access security-related repair and maintenance information through a secure, manufacturer-recognised framework. The Independent Garage Association (IGA) described the scheme’s UK launch as “the delivery of a long-fought industry objective that fundamentally changes how independent garages operate within a modern vehicle parc”. Ensure you always get AM insight. Make us a preferred source of news on Google. It said that SERMI established, for the first time, a trusted and regulated […] - [Rebrand for Wilson & Co as dealer group invests in future](https://industry-news.biz/rebrand-for-wilson-co-as-dealer-group-invests-in-future/): Dealer group Wilson & Co has rebranded to be in line with its sister brand Drayton Motors from today, marking a milestone in the evolution of the business founded by Robin Wilson. The business was founded by Wilson as a Vauxhall dealer but over decades has grown to represent multiple brands, particularly since its acquisition of Drayton Motors Kia more than a decade ago. The rebrand, effective today, unifies the businesses under the Drayton Motors name, to strengthen its market position while maintaining the same customer‑first values that have defined Wilson & Co for decades, the company said. The rebrand […] - [Some car buyers blame Middle East conflict for hesitancy](https://industry-news.biz/some-car-buyers-blame-middle-east-conflict-for-hesitancy/): The current conflict in the Middle East is causing some prospective car buyers to delay their next purchase, according to research by Cazoo & Motors. It said its latest Consumer Insight Panel survey, conducted three weeks after the start of the conflict, found that 38% of prospective buyers were delaying their next purchase, with 56% citing uncertainty over the conflict as one of their reasons for this. However, among those delaying, the average claimed delay was shorter for those referencing the conflict than not, at seven-and-a-half months versus eight-and-a-half. Ensure you always get AM insight. Make us a preferred source of […] - [EAC Telford wins Servicesure award](https://industry-news.biz/eac-telford-wins-servicesure-award/): Family-owned garage group EAC Telford has been recognised for its customer-first approach after winning the Customer Service trophy at the 2026 Servicesure Autocentre of the Year awards. The Shropshire-based independent, which operates four branches, was presented with the award at a ceremony celebrating excellence across GSF Car Parts’ UK-wide and expanding Servicesure Autocentre network. Customer-first culture rewarded The accolade, sponsored by The Motor Ombudsman, recognises businesses that consistently deliver outstanding service and go beyond expectations for their customers. EAC Telford has built a strong local reputation over more than a decade, with judges highlighting its transparent and approachable ethos as a […] - [Ciceley Commercials achieves Mercedes-Benz Vans standard](https://industry-news.biz/ciceley-commercials-achieves-mercedes-benz-vans-standard/): Ciceley Commercials is celebrating becoming the first UK dealer group to achieve the Mercedes-Benz Vans MAR20X standard across all its sites. The directive says that by 2028, showrooms should offer features such as a dedicated client reception area, consultation space and vehicle handover area, and also meet modern design standards. Ciceley is said to have invested £3.5 million on refurbishments across its sites in Darwen, Bolton, Dumfries and Carlisle. Ensure you always get AM insight. Make us a preferred source of news on Google. The project has included a £400,000 sustainability investment at the flagship Darwen site, including EV charging stations, […] - [Volkswagen updates Caddy for van and family buyers](https://industry-news.biz/volkswagen-updates-caddy-for-van-and-family-buyers/): Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has revealed first official images of the new Caddy, previewing an updated version of its long-running compact van and leisure vehicle ahead of pre-sales starting mid-year. The revised fifth-generation Caddy gets a new-look front end, fresh exterior paint colours and redesigned alloy wheels, as Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles looks to build on the model’s popularity with tradespeople, families and lifestyle users. Update revealed The manufacturer said the Caddy was its most successful individual model in 2025 with more than 110,000 deliveries, while more than 500,000 examples of the current fifth-generation high-roof version have been built since launch. Volkswagen […] - [Bookings open for the Ben Ball 2026 charity event in London](https://industry-news.biz/bookings-open-for-the-ben-ball-2026-charity-event-in-london/): Automotive industry charity Ben has opened bookings for Ben Ball 2026, with the flagship event set to return to London later this year. Proudly supported by headline sponsor Autotrader, the annual event will take place on Tuesday December 15 at the London Hilton on Park Lane, bringing together more than 600 guests from across the automotive sector. Guests attending the black-tie event which combines networking, entertainment and fundraising to support industry colleagues can expect live entertainment, dining and an evening of celebration, while helping to raise vital funds for Ben’s health and wellbeing services. 13 Individual tickets are priced from […] - [France's €144m state aid for hydrogen production granted EU approval](https://industry-news.biz/frances-e144m-state-aid-for-hydrogen-production-granted-eu-approval/): The European Commission has given the green light for France to provide €144 million (£125m) of state aid for the production of hydrogen. It will support HyforSeeds, a subsidiary of hydrogen production firm Hynamics, to install and operate a 50MW renewable and low carbon hydrogen production unit. The project will contribute to the decarbonisation of the ammonia production process in the EU by replacing up to 15% of the hydrogen, currently produced from fossil fuels, with renewable and low carbon hydrogen. It is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70% compared to traditional fossil-based hydrogen production methods, […] - [UK's used car market was strong in March, Motors reports](https://industry-news.biz/uks-used-car-market-was-strong-in-march-motors-reports/): March delivered a strong performance for the used car market with faster sales and easing prices helping to boost dealer activity, according to the latest Market View from Cazoo & Motors. Car supermarkets led the charge, increasing sales volumes by 24% month-on-month and 25% year-on-year, while franchised dealers recorded a 17% monthly uplift and a 7% annual rise. Independent retailers saw a 7% monthly increase, although sales were down 8% compared with March last year. Buyer demand accelerated significantly in March, with average days to sell falling to 25, down from 30 in February and 32 in January. Franchised dealers recorded the […] - [UK provides £1bn to drive zero-emission trucks and vans uptake](https://industry-news.biz/uk-provides-1bn-to-drive-zero-emission-trucks-and-vans-uptake/): Businesses in the UK are being offered a share of £1 billion to roll out zero-emission trucks and vans and install new electric vehicle (EV) chargers. Companies are expected to save up to £81,000 off the heaviest zero-emission trucks – covering up to 40% of the cost – and up to £5,000 off new zero-emission vans while cutting costs, supporting jobs and slashing emissions. The funding is being provided under the Zero Emissions Truck and Van grants and Depot Charging Scheme (DCS). Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather said: “This £1 billion investment cuts cost for British businesses, supports […] - [EV funding surge drives used car market 2026](https://industry-news.biz/ev-funding-surge-drives-used-car-market-2026/): Used car dealers are rapidly increasing funding for electric and hybrid vehicles as the market shows strong early momentum in 2026, according to new data from NextGear Capital. The Cox Automotive business said its latest analysis of dealer activity between January and February highlights growing confidence across the sector, with a sharp rise in funding for alternatively fuelled vehicles. EV funding accelerates sharply Dealers funded 807 EVs and 1,011 hybrid vehicles during the first two months of the year, representing increases of 157% and 77% respectively compared with the same period in 2025. The scale of growth significantly outpaces last […] - [EDF and Matrix team up for 500MW battery storage in Scotland](https://industry-news.biz/edf-and-matrix-team-up-for-500mw-battery-storage-in-scotland/): EDF has announced a long term agreement with Matrix Renewables for a 500MW battery energy storage system in Scotland. Currently under construction, the large-scale project is scheduled to start commercial operations in summer 2027 and is Matrix’s first standalone battery development in the UK. Under the agreement, EDF will provide route-to-market services and manage the commercial optimisation and dispatch of the battery using Powershift, its advanced digital trading and optimisation platform. Stuart Fenner, Commercial Director of Business & Wholesale Services at EDF, said: “Delivering EDF’s mission to build an Electric Britain depends on flexible assets that can respond instantly to […] - [TotalEnergies and NEO NEXT create 'UK's largest oil and gas producer'](https://industry-news.biz/totalenergies-and-neo-next-create-uks-largest-oil-and-gas-producer/): TotalEnergies has announced the completion of its merger with NEO NEXT to create what it claims is the largest independent oil and gas producer on the UK Continental Shelf. The combined group – a merger between the French giant’s UK Upstream Oil and Gas business and the UK-based offshore oil and gas company – has been renamed NEO NEXT+, with TotalEnergies holding a 47.5% interest. The joint company is expected to produce more than 250,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2026. Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies said: “The completion of this merger and the creation of NEO […] - [Reactions to FCA's motor finance compensation scheme](https://industry-news.biz/reactions-to-fcas-motor-finance-compensation-scheme/): Last night motor industry trade bodies and expert advisors were left poring through hundreds of pages of information from the Financial Conduct Authority after it announced its final compensation scheme for motor finance. Following industry feedback, the FCA will implement two schemes, one covering April 6, 2007 to  March 31, 2014 and one from April 1, 2014 to November 1, 2024. If the earlier period is subject to legal challenge on these grounds, redress for consumers with agreements from April 2014 shouldn’t be delayed.  Shanika Amarasekara, chief executive of the Finance & Leasing Association, said the trade body wanted the FCA to deliver […] - [UK seeks views on reshaping cyber laws for downstream gas and electricity](https://industry-news.biz/uk-seeks-views-on-reshaping-cyber-laws-for-downstream-gas-and-electricity/): The UK Government is seeking views on proposals for a new approach to cyber resilience regulation for downstream gas and electricity operators. The consultation considers whether there is a need to change how cyber resilience requirements apply across the downstream gas and electricity sector. The government and Ofgem are proposing introducing baseline cyber requirements for all Ofgem licensees to ensure cyber is on everyone’s agenda and introduce a consistent cyber starting point for the energy system. They believe it is time for the UK to reconsider its approach to cyber resilience as the composition of the system is now changing […] - [Legal pressure builds on FCA finance scheme](https://industry-news.biz/legal-pressure-builds-on-fca-finance-scheme/): The Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) proposed motor finance redress scheme is facing growing legal pressure from lenders, claims firms and consumer groups, as debate intensifies over who should qualify for compensation and how payouts will be calculated. With the regulator expected to confirm its final approach later today, attention is shifting to whether the scheme can withstand potential legal challenges. Lenders to challenge scope? Industry concerns centre on whether the definition of “unfairness” is too wide, potentially increasing the compensation bill beyond current estimates of around £11bn, and whether a standardised approach can accurately reflect every agreement. Full timeline: from […] - [Smarter Decisions, Not Automated Leadership](https://industry-news.biz/smarter-decisions-not-automated-leadership/): AI is most useful when it strengthens documentation, consistency, and decision preparation without weakening accountability. By Aaron Sneed In high-risk industries, the job is not just to get the work done. The job is to prove it. That is true in aerospace, nuclear, and regulated manufacturing environments. It is not enough to say something was done correctly. There has to be a clear record showing how the work was performed, what decisions were made, who made them, and under what conditions. That record matters just as much as the result. That is where a lot of the current AI conversation […] - [Details of the scheme for car loan compensation announced](https://industry-news.biz/details-of-the-scheme-for-car-loan-compensation-announced/): The Financial Conduct Authority has just announced its finalised plan for the UK’s motor finance redress scheme, compensating car buyers for missold point of sales car loans. The compensation scheme will now cost motor finance lenders around £7.5 billion in redress, down from the £8.2bn initially expected as the FCA’s draft plan went to consultation. There will be 12.1 million finance agreements sold between April 6, 2007 and November 1, 2024 that are eligible for compensation, down from 14.2m at the consultation stage. “It’s time now for lenders to put right that they’ve broken the law,” said FCA chief executive NIkhil Rathi, […] - [New Paul Rigby Volvo Stafford site opens](https://industry-news.biz/new-paul-rigby-volvo-stafford-site-opens/): A new £1.5 million Volvo retail centre is set to open in Stafford, creating 20 jobs and expanding Paul Rigby’s presence in the Midlands. The new Paul Rigby Volvo Stafford site, located on Tollgate Industrial Estate, will officially open its doors on April 7 following the completion of building and design work. The facility marks the retailer’s third Volvo location in the region, alongside its existing sites in Birmingham and Stourbridge, and has been designed to reflect Volvo’s Scandinavian-inspired retail environment. Scandi retail experience The showroom will feature a lounge-style customer area with Scandinavian furniture, alongside free Wi-Fi and private office […] - [Changan Deepal S05 new car review](https://industry-news.biz/changan-deepal-s05-new-car-review/): Competitively priced electric SUV with great launch finance offer Styled and engineered in Europe, built in China Loaded with tech and practicalities for families and commuters Verdict The Changan Deepal S05 is a stylish electric SUV that truly puts the needs of its buyers first, then gives them a log fire as a bonus. Overview C-segment SUVs are among the most popular new cars in the UK and Chinese brand Changan is now joining the melee for buyers with its Deepal S05. With a no-nonsense choice list that makes it easy for car buyers to see […] - [Strathclyde Uni partners with Japan Maritime United on offshore wind](https://industry-news.biz/strathclyde-uni-partners-with-japan-maritime-united-on-offshore-wind/): The University of Strathclyde has joined forces with Japan Maritime United Corporation (JMU) to work together on advancing offshore renewables. They have signed a memorandum of understanding that establishes a framework for collaboration across research, education, continuing professional development and policy and practice. The organisations will initially focus on offshore renewable energy, with joint work on the standardisation and mass production of floating offshore wind turbines. The partnership brings together the university’s research expertise with industrial capabilities of JMU, which has been engaged in the advancement of floating offshore wind technology since 1999. Professor Maurizio Collu, of the Department of […] - [Price of new Leapmotor B10 range extender revealed](https://industry-news.biz/price-of-new-leapmotor-b10-range-extender-revealed/): Leapmotor has announced UK prices and specs for the range extender version of its B10 medium SUV. The new variant, badged Hybrid EV will sit in the B10 range alongside the fully electric version of the model which was launched last year. It features a 1.5-litre petrol engine, which instead of directly driving the wheels is used to drive a 50kW generator, charging an 18.8kWh battery. This battery, which can also be charged conventionally via an EV charger (a 30-80% charge will be possible in 20 minutes with a DC rapid charger), offers a provisional EV-only range of up to […] - [EU approves €500m state aid for cleantech manufacturing in Luxembourg](https://industry-news.biz/eu-approves-e500m-state-aid-for-cleantech-manufacturing-in-luxembourg/): The European Commission has approved a €500 million (£0.87m) state aid scheme to support clean technology manufacturing capacity in Luxembourg. The grant aid will support the addition of manufacturing capacity for the production, including with secondary raw materials, of the final products and the main specific components like solar technologies, wind technologies, heat pumps or battery technologies. The scheme, approved under the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework (CISAF), will also provide aid for the production of new or recovered related critical raw materials necessary for the production of those final products or main specific components. Companies in Luxembourg can […] - [Dealers have EV recall opportunity, ADS finds](https://industry-news.biz/dealers-have-ev-recall-opportunity-ads-finds/): EVs are facing relatively high recall rates which could help dealers make up for a revenue shortfall from the models needing less servicing, according to ADS. The data company said its research showed an average annual workshop revenue shortfall of £175 per EV, compared with ICE vehicles. It said that based on current EV market share, this difference – attributed to EVs having fewer serviceable wear-and-tear components – represented a total service value reduction across UK dealers of £210 million. However, it also found that EVs were accounting for one in five recalls, despite only making up one in 18 […] - [Vestas plans €250m offshore wind factory in Scotland](https://industry-news.biz/vestas-plans-e250m-offshore-wind-factory-in-scotland/): Danish company Vestas has unveiled plans to establish a €250 million (£217m) nacelle and hub factory for offshore wind farms in Scotland. It would produce nacelles and hubs for the firm’s flagship offshore wind turbine – the V236-15MW – with the investment expected to create up to 500 direct skilled jobs. The final investment decision is conditional on securing sufficient UK-based orders in the UK’s upcoming offshore wind auctions. The facility could start production by 2029/30 subject to the timing of those results and the planning process. Vestas CEO Henrik Andersen said:”The UK government has made a big statement with […] - [UK reviews ZEV mandate amid EV demand gap](https://industry-news.biz/uk-reviews-zev-mandate-amid-ev-demand-gap/): Ministers are reported to have launched a review of electric car sales quotas, raising expectations that the UK could soften one of its flagship net zero policies as industry pressure intensifies. According to The Times, Government officials have begun early work on a revised approach to the zero emission vehicle mandate, with discussions underway between manufacturing industry chiefs and civil servants. One senior industry source told the newspaper that extensive discussions were now taking place between bosses and civil servants. Another said that carmakers had been asked for detailed production plans for future battery electric and plug in hybrid models through to 2035. […] - [Data-driven insights to deliver £10m in savings for small UK businesses ](https://industry-news.biz/data-driven-insights-to-deliver-10m-in-savings-for-small-uk-businesses/): More than £10 million in potential cost savings have been identified for small businesses across the UK through a low carbon data-driven insights platform. The platform uses advanced property and energy data and provides fast, data-driven insights into technologies such as solar panels, heat pumps and EV charging without the need for onsite surveys. EDF and Perse Technology have shared the latest results from their partnership, which has also identified more than 6,500 tonnes of carbon reductions for businesses across 1,177 locations. Under the partnership, more than 1,000 EDF customers received a free Low Carbon Report, helping them understand which […] - [Škoda Peaq adds V2H power as flagship EV](https://industry-news.biz/skoda-peaq-adds-v2h-power-as-flagship-ev/): Škoda has revealed further details of its new all-electric Peaq SUV, confirming the seven-seat flagship will arrive this summer, offering a 370-mile range. Based on the Vision 7S concept, the Peaq will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electrification Toolkit platform in Mladá Boleslav and will sit at the top of the Czech brand’s electric line-up. The carmaker said the Peaq will be its largest and most spacious model, measuring nearly 4.9 metres long with seating for seven adults. Boot space stands at 299 litres with all seats in place and rises to 890 litres with the third row folded, […] - [Octopus Energy acquires majority stake in US grid tech firm Uplight](https://industry-news.biz/octopus-energy-acquires-majority-stake-in-us-grid-tech-firm-uplight/): UK-based Octopus Energy has announced it has bought a majority stake in US grid technology firm Uplight. The move is aimed at enabling the company to help utilities in North America manage the rapid increase in electricity demand, driven by data centre developments and electrification. Uplight serves more than 85 utilities across North America and manages more than 8.5GW of flexible load. It enables households and businesses to actively participate in flexibility programmes, turning distributed energy resources into reliable capacity that utilities can deploy when and where the grid needs it. The deal is made in partnership with global energy […] - [Roadside Kia ranks among UK’s best dealers](https://industry-news.biz/roadside-kia-ranks-among-uks-best-dealers/): A Coleraine dealership has been recognised as one of the highest-rated car retailers in the UK for customer experience, based on independent analysis of verified customer reviews. Roadside Garages Kia has been ranked number one Kia dealership in Northern Ireland, second across the UK Kia network and fourth among all dealership nationwide, according to data from Reputation. The recognition places the long-established retailer among a small group of top-performing businesses achieving the highest levels of customer satisfaction. Reviews drove top ranking The accolade is based entirely on customer feedback, with Reputation analysing reviews, engagement and overall experience to generate its scoring […] - [UK's Crown Estate plans 6GW offshore wind leasing round](https://industry-news.biz/uks-crown-estate-plans-6gw-offshore-wind-leasing-round/): The Crown Estate has announced plans for a new offshore wind leasing round that could add at least 6GW of capacity in the UK. The Offshore Wind Leasing Round 6 is being planned for the first half of 2027 as part of its efforts to accelerate clean energy growth. It is also expected to help create up to 10,000 direct jobs and a potential economic boost of more than £12 billion. The majority of sites is expected to be off the coast of the North East of England. The UK’s offshore wind pipeline has a current capacity of nearly 17GW […] - [EU AI Act risk for UK car retailers in Europe](https://industry-news.biz/eu-ai-act-risk-for-uk-car-retailers-in-europe/): Dealerships have been warned they may still fall within scope of the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act despite the UK no longer being part of the EU. The alert from IMAGIN.studio comes ahead of the legislation becoming fully applicable on August 2 with concerns that many UK-based businesses are underestimating their exposure when operating across borders. The company said firms selling vehicles into EU markets or using AI-generated content visible to EU consumers could be subject to the regulation. Cross-border compliance risk The EU AI Act applies not only to organisations established within the EU, but also to those placing AI systems […] - [Up to £150m up for grabs to help anchor clean maritime future ](https://industry-news.biz/up-to-150m-up-for-grabs-to-help-anchor-clean-maritime-future/): A share of up to £150 million is up for grabs for UK organisations to develop, deploy and operate zero emission vessels and infrastructure. The funding from the Department for Transport will support innovative clean maritime solutions and technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions in real world environments.  Successful projects, supported under the Zero Emission Vessel and Infrastructure Round 2 (ZEVI 2) competition, will be required to demonstrate their technologies for three years. The three strands of competition will fund alternative fuel vessels, alternative fuel bunkering and storage infrastructure within ports, 100% battery electric vessels, vessel charging infrastructure, shore power […] - [Oil shock drives EV demand and retailer opportunity](https://industry-news.biz/oil-shock-drives-ev-demand-and-retailer-opportunity/): The past few weeks have shown just how fragile our reliance on fossil fuels really is, writes Keyloop’s global OEM strategy director Jacqui Barker. A global oil shock of this magnitude doesn’t just raise eyebrows in boardrooms; it hits forecourts faster than you can say price per litre. With Brent crude now above $100 a barrel, thanks to geopolitical turmoil and supply constraints, electrification has shifted from a someday conversation to a now decision for many consumers. But here’s the bit we can’t afford to miss: customers aren’t necessarily just looking for EVs. They’re looking for clarity and consultation. They’re looking for […] - [UK CO2 production plant to reopen amid Iran war crisis](https://industry-news.biz/uk-co2-production-plant-to-reopen-amid-iran-war-crisis/): The UK Government is providing a £100 million package to temporarily restart a CO2 production plant in Wilton, Teesside. The three-month restart measure of the Ensus plant comes amid the Iran conflict and difficult market conditions, which have significantly reduced the reliability of CO2 imports and increased gas prices. CO2 is vital for Britain’s nuclear, packaged meats, fresh food and healthcare sectors – the latest move is expected to help the country maintain critical supply during the disruption. The Ensus plant ceased production in Autumn 2025 and was set to close permanently, however, the compay agreed to keep it on […] - [Motor finance redress: from commission to compensation](https://industry-news.biz/motor-finance-redress-from-commission-to-compensation/): As the UK financial watchdog readies to publish the motor finance redress scheme, AM charts how a regulatory concern over commission disclosure evolved into one of the most significant financial and operational risks facing car dealers and lenders. The story begins with the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) long-standing concerns over discretionary commission arrangements, where dealers and brokers could determine customer interest rates. The regulator banned these models from January 2021, but the foundations of today’s redress debate were already being laid. At the time, the move was positioned as a forward-looking intervention to improve transparency and fairness in motor finance. However, […] - [Councils struggling to plan charging infrastructure](https://industry-news.biz/councils-struggling-to-plan-charging-infrastructure/): Councils are warning they are being asked to deliver an EV charging network that works for everyone without the space or clarity to do it properly. New research shows more than half of local authorities say balancing accessible charge points with real-world constraints is a major challenge, rising to 90% in London where narrow streets and competing demands leave little room to install infrastructure that meets accessibility standards. The findings are set out in Believ’s latest Local Authority Insight Report, show the problem is practical as much as policy. On-street charging has to fit around pavements parking and existing street […] - [Big Zero Show - smaller, better but still bold](https://industry-news.biz/big-zero-show-smaller-better-but-still-bold/): The Big Zero Show had a fantastic comeback earlier this week after a one year hiatus and the message from the energy professionals out there was clear… net zero is not dead, it’s alive and well – but it might need to tell its story a bit better. From discussions on the future of flexibility, to data and AI, batteries and perhaps most important of all, sharing the successes and struggles of energy professionals trying to do their best, in reducing the impact of their organisations on the planet and ecosystem. The Big Zero Show With the world now in […] - [Waylands buys Cambridge Garage Volvo sites](https://industry-news.biz/waylands-buys-cambridge-garage-volvo-sites/): Fast-growing Waylands Automotive has completed the acquisition of Cambridge Garage, which operates in Havant and Petersfield, from the Stringer family. The deal strengthens Waylands’ Volvo representation, taking the group to seven Volvo dealerships and extends its presence further along the South Coast. The business last year bought Volvo Gloucester from Johnson Cars following the acquisition from Johnsons Cars’ Volvo Cars Swindon and Volvo Oxford car dealership in 2018. The AM100 dealership group acquired its first Volvo dealership in Reading in November 2017 and Fawcetts Volvo in May 2018. Waylands grows Volvo network Cambridge ARC, the Stringer family’s sister bodyshop business, is not part of the transaction and […] - [Steel city to become windy city](https://industry-news.biz/steel-city-to-become-windy-city/): Port Talbot is being recast from a symbol of Britain’s industrial past, into a cornerstone of its clean energy future, with £64 million of government funding aimed at turning the steel town into a hub for floating offshore wind. The investment will allow Associated British Ports to complete the design and engineering work needed to develop one of the UK’s first ports dedicated to floating wind in the Celtic Sea, a region seen as one of Europe’s strongest resources for the technology. For a town defined by steel, the new future looks clean. Ministers are not just backing a new […] - [Lithia UK operations president Neil Williamson on growth](https://industry-news.biz/lithia-uk-operations-president-neil-williamson-on-growth/): Bringing together the two top 10 AM100 dealer groups Jardine Motors and Pendragon into one organisation can’t have been easy for their new owner. But it has brought something crucial into focus – ensuring the workforce shares the new vision. “The legacy is really important, but it’s in the past. Today we’re Lithia,” Neil Williamson, operations president of Lithia UK tells Automotive Management. US-based Lithia and Driveway acquired Jardine, which Williamson was already leading, and then Pendragon in quick succession. The result, including a few other smaller bolt-on acquisitions, is a reshaped motor retail group that employs more than 7,000 […] - [Echelon launches Ireland’s first green energy park](https://industry-news.biz/echelon-launches-irelands-first-green-energy-park/): Echelon Data Centres has announced plans to establish Ireland’s first Green Energy Park at its DUB20 campus in Arklow, Co Wicklow. The project aligns with the Irish Government’s Large Energy Users Action Plan, which aims to ensure energy intensive industries support renewable deployment and grid stability. Green Energy Parks bring together large energy users such as data centres with renewable power generation, energy storage and grid supporting infrastructure. The DUB20 campus will include a data centre connected to offshore wind power, onsite solar generation and battery energy storage. The development will also feature two onsite energy centres, including one capable […] - [Europe’s first industrial-scale battery recycling plant launches](https://industry-news.biz/europes-first-industrial-scale-battery-recycling-plant-launches/): Europe has taken a step towards breaking its dependence on imported battery materials, with the first industrial-scale demonstration plant capable of recycling lithium, graphite and nickel-cobalt from end-of-life batteries. Munich-based tozero, has brought the facility online at Chemical Park Gendorf in Bavaria, building it in just six months and giving it the capacity to process around 1,500 tonnes of battery waste a year. The company says it can recover around 80% of critical raw materials, producing battery-grade lithium carbonate alongside graphite and nickel-cobalt mix that can go straight back into manufacturing. Europe is sitting on a growing stockpile of spent […] - [Reconomy to open plastic recycling plant in Corby](https://industry-news.biz/reconomy-to-open-plastic-recycling-plant-in-corby/): Reconomy has announced plans to open a £20 million plastic recycling facility in Corby, Northamptonshire, through its Eurokey brand. The 138,000 sq ft plant will be one of the UK’s largest dedicated plastic recycling sites focused on supporting supermarkets and retailers with closed-loop recycling. Plastic material sorted at Eurokey’s nearby Kettering facility will be processed at the Corby plant and converted into recycled plastic pellets. These pellets can then be used to manufacture new plastic packaging for supermarkets. The new site aims to boost domestic recycling capacity and reduce the UK’s reliance on exporting plastic waste. According to UK Government […] - [Scotland's climate change plan to guide emissions cuts to 2040](https://industry-news.biz/scotlands-climate-change-plan-to-guide-emissions-cuts-to-2040/): The Scottish Government has published its Climate Change Plan covering the period from 2026 to 2040, outlining more than 150 actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The plan sets out how Scotland will meet its next three carbon budgets while delivering economic and social benefits. Officials estimate the measures could generate more than £42.3 billion in financial benefits and cost savings for the economy over the next 15 years. Scotland has already reduced emissions by 51.3% since 1990, the largest reduction in the UK and faster than the EU average based on comparable data. The plan includes several major targets […] - [Geely to speed up UK model rollouts with new European R&D hub](https://industry-news.biz/geely-to-speed-up-uk-model-rollouts-with-new-european-rd-hub/): Geely has set up a new European R&D hub in a move that could accelerate UK launches and model localisation for its growing dealer network. The Geely Technology Europe has been created by integrating its engineering centres in Gothenburg and Frankfurt into a single R&D organisation. The move is designed to support faster global product development and closer alignment with regional market needs, with direct implications for the UK where Geely is continuing to build-out its dealer network. Geely Technology Europe will work alongside the Geely Research Institute in China to develop vehicle platforms for global markets from the outset. The group […] - [Britain's high energy prices put off investors](https://industry-news.biz/britains-high-energy-prices-put-off-investors/): High energy costs in the UK are starting to bite on investment decisions, with the US ambassador warning that businesses are thinking twice about putting capital into Britain. Speaking at the British Chamber of Commerce, US Ambassador Warren Stephens said American firms are increasingly raising concerns about the cost of operating in the UK, particularly when it comes to energy. He said: “Or when US businesses say energy costs are too high for them to make investments here, we want to make sure UK decision-makers are aware of those concerns.” The warning lands at a sensitive moment. While wholesale prices […] - [Motorpoint to open Leeds store](https://industry-news.biz/motorpoint-to-open-leeds-store/): Motorpoint has announced plans to open a new store in Leeds, strengthening its presence in West Yorkshire and taking its UK retail network to 22 locations. The new site, located on Whitehall Road near Elland Road and around a mile from the city centre, is set to open this summer following a £15 million investment, with redevelopment already underway. Once operational, Motorpoint Leeds will offer hundreds of nearly new and used vehicles from more than 30 manufacturers, all available for same day driveaway. Leeds boosts regional footprint The retailer said the new site will double its presence in West Yorkshire, complementing […] - [Future-Proofing Europe’s Energy Grid: The ENTSO-E Upgrade](https://industry-news.biz/future-proofing-europes-energy-grid-the-entso-e-upgrade/): Driven by the rapid energy transition and influx of renewable sources, the European electricity market demands unprecedented data transparency. The ENTSO-E Transparency Platform serves as the central hub for this critical information, supporting everyone from regulators to the general public. Recognising that growing data volumes required a fundamental shift, Unicorn delivered a complete architectural overhaul to future-proof this vital European infrastructure. Initial State The original web-based platform reliably fulfilled its core purpose of making energy data accessible under European legislation. Over the years, however, incremental expansions turned the system into a complex monolith. It became clear that the legacy architecture […] - [Saltmarine wins Hyundai Retailer award](https://industry-news.biz/saltmarine-wins-hyundai-retailer-award/): Saltmarine Cars has capped a record 2025 by being named Sales Retailer of the Year at the Hyundai Retailer Awards, highlighting its strong sales performance and sustained growth. The accolade, awarded from a network of 161 Hyundai retailers across the UK, marks the standout moment in a year that also delivered numerous national award wins for the business. Hyundai honours performance The Hyundai recognition follows a sustained period of momentum for Saltmarine, underpinned by growth in its used car operation and continued investment in digital and marketing capabilities. Earlier in the year, the business secured multiple wins at an industry title’s awards, […] - [British energy policy has always been chaotic](https://industry-news.biz/british-energy-policy-has-always-been-chaotic/): Energy policy has spent decades chasing its own tail, layering fixes on top of fixes – and the result is a system that looks strategic on paper but behaves chaotically in practice. That is the blunt conclusion of new academic work from Cambridge University led by Tijn Croon, which tracks how governments have repeatedly intervened in energy markets only to create fresh distortions that then demand further intervention. The study shows that what begins as a targeted policy quickly becomes something else entirely. Support schemes designed to protect consumers or accelerate clean energy end up reshaping markets in ways policymakers […] - [CMA investigates Autotrader reviews | Supplier news](https://industry-news.biz/cma-investigates-autotrader-reviews-supplier-news/): The Competition and Markets Authority has opened an investigation into online platform Autotrader over its compliance with consumer protection law, focusing on how customer reviews are moderated and displayed. The CMA is examining whether a number of one star reviews, moderated by Feefo were not published on Autotrader’s platform and were excluded from overall star ratings, potentially denying consumers a fully rounded picture of customer experiences. The regulator said it will now engage with Autotrader and gather evidence to determine whether there has been any breach of consumer protection law. It noted that at this point, no findings have been made […] - [MG and BYD pile pressure on Tesla in Europe](https://industry-news.biz/mg-and-byd-pile-pressure-on-tesla-in-europe/): Tesla’s early-2026 European growth lagged fast-rising Chinese rivals, as BYD and SAIC widened their lead in a market still shifting towards EVs. European car manufacturers’ latest data (ACEA) for February 2026 year-to-date data shows the wider EU market remains difficult, with total new car registrations down 1.2% to 1.66 million units, even as battery-electric volumes rose 22.3% to 312,369 and lifted BEV share to 18.8% from 15.2% a year earlier. The figures highlight that EV demand is still growing, but not evenly across brands or countries. For Tesla, the standout point is that its performance looks much less dominant than the wider […] - [Volvo launches EX30 Cargo electric van](https://industry-news.biz/volvo-launches-ex30-cargo-electric-van/): Volvo Car UK has entered the light commercial vehicle market for the first time with the launch of the fully electric EX30 Cargo, targeting fleet and business customers seeking a premium compact van alternative. Based on the EX30 compact SUV, the new car-derived van combines load-carrying capability, the EX30 Cargo is priced from £36,010 on the road and will be sold exclusively through Volvo’s fleet sales channels. Volvo enters EV van market  Developed via a second-stage conversion, the model replaces the rear seats with a flat load floor and bulkhead, delivering up to 1,000 litres of load space and a […] - [Peter Cooper launches Kia PBV vans at Hedge End](https://industry-news.biz/peter-cooper-launches-kia-pbv-vans-at-hedge-end/): The Peter Cooper Motor Group has introduced Kia’s new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) van range at its Hedge End dealership, marking an expansion into next generation electric light commercial vehicles (LCVs). The business already represents Kia cars at the site, having taken over Kia Viking two years ago, and will now offer both cargo and passenger variants of the new fully electric PBV line-up. The Kia PV5 Cargo and Kia PV5 Passenger vans are designed to support a range of retail and fleet applications, combining zero-emissions driving with digital connectivity and flexible interior configurations. Kia claims a driving range of […] - [Exclusive: Changan UK MD Nic Thomas talks dealer opportunity](https://industry-news.biz/exclusive-changan-uk-md-nic-thomas-talks-dealer-opportunity/): Chinese brand Changan is launching the second car in its UK range and its dealer recruitment is progressing well, UK managing director Nic Thomas told Automotive Management this week. Franchisees already on board in Scotland include Park’s Motor Group and John Clark Motor Group, Nathaniel Cars in Wales, while in England the partners include Ancaster, Bowker Motor Group, DM Keith, JCT600, Lookers and Stoneacre. The latest additions include Lithia UK, Westaway and Partridge of Hampshire – the latter an AM100 motor retailer which has until now exclusively represented BMW and Mini. “We have partnered with some really, really strong dealer groups and […] - [Newtown Motors adds KGM franchise in Cwmbran](https://industry-news.biz/newtown-motors-adds-kgm-franchise-in-cwmbran/): Newtown Motors in Cwmbran has added KGM to its franchise portfolio, bringing the brand’s SUV, pick-up and EV range to its site in South Wales. The family-run retailer, based on Avondale Road, has partnered with KGM Motors UK, formerly SsangYong, as it looks to expand its new car offering and meet changing customer demand. Newtown Motors will represent the full KGM line-up, including the Rexton SUV, Musso pick-up, Korando, Tivoli, Torres EVX and new Torres and Actyon hybrids. The site will also provide aftersales support and parts. Tom Davies, managing director at Newtown Motors, said: “When we shared the news […] - [Swansway director criticises ZEV mandate pressure](https://industry-news.biz/swansway-director-criticises-zev-mandate-pressure/): Swansway director Peter Smyth has criticised the UK’s Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, warning that it is forcing dealers to push EVs ahead of customer demand. The ZEV mandate requires an increasing percentage of manufacturers’ new car and van sales to be zero-emission each year, with potential fines for non-compliance. Speaking in an interview with The Telegraph, Smyth said the transition to electric vehicles represents the biggest shift he has seen in the industry. Smyth said dealerships are under increasing pressure from manufacturers to sell EVs, with training and incentives aimed at driving uptake, but argued retail demand is not […] - [EV leasing enquiries rise 36% as fuel prices push drivers to electric](https://industry-news.biz/ev-leasing-enquiries-rise-36-as-fuel-prices-push-drivers-to-electric/): Interest in electric vehicle leasing has surged as UK drivers respond to rising fuel prices. Octopus Electric Vehicles reported a 36% increase in EV leasing enquiries since the start of the conflict in the Middle East. Petrol prices have climbed to £1.48 per litre while diesel has reached £1.73 per litre, among the highest levels seen in the past 12 months. The rising cost of fuel is prompting many motorists to reconsider petrol and diesel vehicles and explore electric alternatives. Electric vehicles can offer more predictable costs because electricity prices are often more stable than global oil markets. Drivers using […] - [Pay-per-mile EV tax ‘fleet hostile’, warns BVRLA](https://industry-news.biz/pay-per-mile-ev-tax-fleet-hostile-warns-bvrla/): The Government’s proposed pay-per-mile electric vehicle duty could cost the UK fleet sector £260 million a year by 2028, according to the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), highlighting potential downstream impacts for dealers. The eVED policy, announced in the Autumn Budget, would introduce a per-mile charge of 3p for fully electric vehicles and 1.5p for plug-in hybrids. While aimed at replacing declining fuel duty revenues, the BVRLA warns it could materially affect fleet operations, which in turn shape used vehicle supply and pricing in the retail market. Fleets have been a more stable source of volume for EVs, […] - [Bidders fight for connection contracts](https://industry-news.biz/bidders-fight-for-connection-contracts/): Ofgem has drawn its largest field of bidders in six years for the next wave of offshore transmission assets, underlining growing investor appetite for the UK’s clean power infrastructure. Five bidders are now competing to own and operate the transmission links connecting three major North Sea wind farms, East Anglia THREE, Inch Cape and Dogger Bank C, to the grid. The assets, valued at around £3.5 billion, include offshore and onshore cables, substations and converter stations that will carry renewable power to millions of homes. The scale of interest marks a big shift After a quieter period, both established players […] - [Business told get ready for rocketing energy bills](https://industry-news.biz/business-told-get-ready-for-rocketing-energy-bills/): Businesses across the UK are being hit by a fresh surge in energy costs as wholesale markets react to disruption in the Middle East, with sharp increases feeding through just as many firms come to renew contracts. Electricity prices have risen by between 10% and 30% since late February, while gas costs have climbed far more steeply, with forecasts suggesting increases of between 25% and 80% depending on sector and exposure. For a typical small industrial or commercial business, that now translates into an average annual electricity contract of £578,000, up £96,000 in a matter of weeks, while gas bills […] ## Pages - [Contact](https://industry-news.biz/contact/) - [Terms of use](https://industry-news.biz/terms-of-use/): Welcome to Industry News! 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