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June 30.2025

2 Minutes Read

Ford's New Electric Vehicle Centre: Pioneering the Shift to EVs

Professional women at Ford Electric Vehicle Centre Daventry, smiling indoors.

Ford's Commitment to Electric Futures

In a significant move towards a sustainable automotive future, Ford has inaugurated its new Electric Vehicle Centre for Excellence at the Henry Ford Academy in Daventry. The opening, celebrated by Ford's Managing Director Lisa Brankin, marks a pivotal milestone in Ford UK's electrification journey.

Celebrating Innovation and Training

Brankin, reflecting on the academy's journey since its inception in 2015, emphasized that this newly launched facility is not merely about advanced technologies but fundamentally revolves around empowering people. The center aims to equip technicians, sales teams, and dealership staff with the skills necessary to facilitate a seamless transition for customers toward electric vehicles (EVs).

Understanding the Shift to Electric Driving

The establishment of this center comes at a time when the automotive industry is witnessing a significant shift as consumers increasingly demand electric vehicles. Recent surveys have indicated that around 25% of car buyers expect their next vehicle to be electric, showcasing the growing acceptance and enthusiasm for EVs among the UK populace.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The facility is designed to serve not only as a training hub but also as a beacon of innovation in the EV sector. By providing top-notch training to thousands of individuals, Ford aims to cultivate a skilled workforce adept at meeting the needs of an evolving market, thus promising improved customer experiences and greater satisfaction as they embrace electric driving.

Conclusion

The opening of the Electric Vehicle Centre in Daventry is a step towards ensuring that Ford remains at the forefront of the automotive industry's transition to electrification. For those interested in the future of cars and sustainable practices within the industry, this initiative signals exciting times ahead in electric mobility.

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10.02.2025

Electric Vehicles Dominate Auto Sales in Q3 2025: Key Insights

Update Record EV Sales Drive Q3 2025 Performance The close of Q3 2025 has showcased drastic shifts in the auto sales landscape, as the federal EV tax credit expiration instigated a buying blitz among electric vehicles (EVs). Notably, Hyundai and Ford emerged as clear winners, reporting significant sales increases across their SUV and electric models. The statistics reflect a market at a turning point, where consumer preferences are rapidly adapting to federal incentives and evolving vehicle technology. Winners of Q3: EVs Take Center Stage In the electric vehicle sector, the expiration of the $7,500 tax credit led to an unprecedented rush for consumers eager to purchase EVs before the deadline. Hyundai has notably excelled, with its Ioniq 5 experiencing a dramatic surge of 90% year-over-year, resulting in nearly 22,000 units delivered. The growth of the EV market was mirrored across manufacturers, with Ford's Mustang Mach-E sales soaring by 51%. The momentum isn't confined to new models; even seasoned players like the Chevrolet Equinox EV gained traction with a staggering 157% increase. Hyundai and Ford’s SUV Dominance Hyundai recorded a 13% increase in total sales, buoyed by strong performances from their SUV lineup, especially the Santa Fe and Palisade. The Santa Fe's resurgence, following a generational update, contributed significantly to Hyundai's record-breaking quarter. Meanwhile, Ford enjoyed similar success with its large SUVs, most notably the Expedition, which saw sales rise by 48%. These trends highlight a broader consumer preference leaning towards larger, family-oriented vehicles amid rising fuel efficiency and safety features. Analyzing the Challenges: The Losers of Q3 Not every automaker celebrated success during this quarter. The Chevrolet Corvette, America's once-beloved sports car, saw sales plummet by 34%, suggesting that waiting for the upcoming 2026 models may have deterred buyers this year. This shift starkly contrasts the booming SUV market, reflecting changing consumer preferences. Furthermore, Volkswagen's diminishing car lineup poses serious challenges. The Jetta and its sibling models recorded steep sales declines, with a 42% drop from the previous year. This situation is indicative of a broader trend where compact cars struggle in the face of soaring SUV popularity, raising questions about the future of traditional sedan models in the automotive industry. Future Predictions: What Lies Ahead for EVs Looking ahead, the dynamics of sales promises intriguing developments. While there may be a temporary dip in EV sales as buyers catch their breath post-incentive, many manufacturers are strategically preparing for this shift. Ford's forecast of EV market share diminishing from 12% to around 5% in the coming months has raised eyebrows, yet automakers like Hyundai are optimistic about maintaining their sales momentum. With adjusted pricing and incentives continuing post-tax credits, brands are poised to navigate this transition smoothly Conclusion: The Road Forward In conclusion, Q3 2025 encapsulates significant changes in the automotive marketplace, revealing a pronounced tilt towards SUVs and electric vehicles. The winners in this scenario are clearly aligning themselves with the future of mobility, driving home an essential truth: getting ahead in this market demands both innovation and adaptability. As consumers adjust to these dynamic shifts, the question remains—will traditional sedan models find their foothold again?

10.02.2025

Leslies Motors Closes Hyundai Dealership: Impacts for Isle of Wight Residents

Update Closure of Leslies Motors Hyundai Dealership: A Sad Sign of Changing Times Leslies Motors, a well-known name in the Isle of Wight automotive scene, has announced the impending closure of its Hyundai dealership in Sandown as part of a strategic response to shifting market conditions. This decision underscores the challenges faced by traditional dealerships amidst evolving customer preferences and a competitive automotive market. With the closure set for November 2025, many residents will no longer be able to purchase new Hyundais on the island, marking yet another local brand's disappearance from the market. What Does This Mean for Hyundai Customers? Despite the dealership closure, Leslies Motors reassures its commitment to Hyundai customers. The company will maintain its status as an authorized repairer at the Northwood site, ensuring that local customers can still access vital services such as repairs, servicing, and warranty work. Director Louis Vanassche emphasized this commitment, stating, "We remain fully committed to looking after our Hyundai customers." This dedication is crucial as the dealership aims to mitigate the impact of its closure on loyal customers who have relied on Leslies for their automotive needs. The Wider Impact on Isle of Wight's Automotive Landscape This closure isn't just about Leslies Motors; it reflects a broader trend affecting car dealerships across the UK. With several automotive brands, including BMW and Nissan, also disappearing from the Isle of Wight, there is growing concern about the long-term implications for the local economy and job market. Job losses are expected as staff are relocated to other Leslies Motors locations, but uncertainty remains for many employees who will seek alternative opportunities. Connecting to the Community Leslies Motors has been a staple of the community for years, actively participating in local events and supporting sports teams, such as sponsoring Newclose Cricket Ground and the Sandown and Shanklin Golf Club. This connection has made the dealership more than just a business; it's part of the fabric of the local community. The closure may result in a gap not only in the local job market but also in community engagement, raising questions about who will step in to fill that void. Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Leslies Motors? As the dealership shifts its focus towards its repair services, Leslies Motors hints at exciting future announcements in the pipeline that they look forward to sharing with their customers and the community. While the transition presents challenges, it also opens doors for innovation and services that may better align with the future of automotive sales and ownership. Understanding these changes is essential for the local consumers and automotive professionals alike. Engaging and adapting to the shifting landscape, Leslies Motors may pave the way for a new model of automotive business on the Isle of Wight, one that emphasizes service while navigating market trends.

10.02.2025

How Charity Ben is Supporting Families Affected by JLR Cyber Attack

Update Support Takes Center Stage Following Cyber Attack on JLRThe recent cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has sent shockwaves through the automotive industry, affecting not only the company’s operations but also the lives of thousands connected to its extensive supply chain. Motor industry charity Ben is stepping up to offer crucial support to those impacted, providing resources designed to assist families and workers facing unprecedented challenges.Since the harassment inflicted by cybercriminals began on September 1, JLR was forced to halt production across its UK sites. An estimated 120,000 individuals, including around 75,000 supply chain employees and their families, have already begun experiencing severe emotional and financial difficulties due to the shutdown.A Commitment to Community and RecoveryIn response to this urgent need, Ben has launched a comprehensive campaign that provides both practical and emotional support. This initiative guides employers and employees to financial resources and mental health services essential for navigating this crisis. Rachel Clift, CEO of Ben, emphasized, “The urgency of support remains; while the UK Government’s £1.5 billion loan to JLR may assist in recovery, the immediate need for resources can’t wait.”Immediate Needs and Long-term SolutionsThe charity's outreach has highlighted stark realities for small and medium-sized suppliers who are facing cash flow disruptions and staff that may have gone weeks without pay. The phased restart of JLR operations is promising; however, the uncertainty surrounding when funds will reach affected suppliers escalates the pressure on already vulnerable workers and their families. Clift reiterated the necessity of responsive measures aiming to restore stability, stating, “This will require a resilient workforce across JLR and its supply chain; we want to work alongside the UK Government and other key stakeholders to ensure that all the necessary support is in place for workers to restart production.”How to Access SupportFor workers and families caught in this turmoil, Ben has set up dedicated helplines, allowing those affected to reach out for help directly. Support can be accessed through a tailored helpline at 0808 131 1333 or online via their campaign page at ben.org.uk/cyber-attack. Whether it’s financial assistance, mental health support, or practical advice, Ben is committed to standing alongside the automotive community during this challenging time.

Ford's New Electric Vehicle Centre: Pioneering the Shift to EVs

Ford's Commitment to Electric Futures

Celebrating Innovation and Training

Understanding the Shift to Electric Driving

Community Impact and Future Prospects

Conclusion

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