Automobiles Review

Author: autoview

  • 2015 Sonata officially rated as very safe

    Korean automobiles are usually regarded as cheap alternatives to German and Japanese cars but quite often they win prestigious awards here and there. This is now the case of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata, which has been officially rated as one of the safest cars on the road today. This recognition comes from none other but the US Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), which has named the 2015 Sonata “2014 Top Safety Pick+”.

    Just a quick look at the car will convince you that this is indeed the case. The 2015 Hyundai Sonata comes with a host of active safety features such as Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a Lane Departure Warning System, Forward Collision Warning and rear parking sensors. All these technologies bring a new level of safety and refinement to the midsize sedan category.

    “The TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation recognizes state-of-the-art safety,” said IIHS president Adrian Lund. “The 2015 Hyundai Sonata is not only engineered to protect people when crashes happen, but with its optional forward collision warning system rated basic in our tests, this car can help drivers avoid some of the most common kinds of collisions altogether.”

    “Occupant safety is at the forefront of Hyundai design and engineering,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, Corporate and Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Sonata’s TOP SAFETY PICK+ recognition reinforces our dedication to occupant safety, and integrating our accident prevention technologies makes the 2015 Sonata one of the safest midsize sedans on the market today.”

    The 2015 Hyundai Sonata also offers a number of additional technologies that include Vehicle Stability Management, Traction Control, ABS and Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire pressure indicators and Electronic Stability Control. The car, however, comes with no new engines. In the USA customers can choose between a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with 185 HP (136 kW) and a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 274 HP (201 kW) of power. The car also has a six-speed automatic transmission for both models and more versions of it are expected soon.

    In the USA you can have the 2015 Hyundai Sonata for as little as USD 17 870.

    Source: Hyundai

  • Cadillac works on 2016 CTS-V model

    The Cadillac CTS-V has been around for nearly 10 years now. Launched back in 2004 as a high-performance version of the CTS sedan it targeted other fast cars such as the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. Coming at first with a powerful 5.7-liter LS6, V8 engine for 400 HP (294 kW) of power and 395 lb-ft (535 Nm) of torque, the Cadillac CTS-V was upgraded in 2006, receiving a 6.0-liter LS2 engine with the same power but a better torque range. More changes were applied in 2008 with the second generation Cadillac CTS-V. This time the car had a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced 556 HP (409 kW) of power and 551 lb-ft (747 Nm) of torque.

    Now Cadillac CTS-V fans will get to see and experience the third generation of this muscle vehicle. The new car is based on the brand-new CTS sedan and has a redesigned exterior and a larger interior, while at the same time bringing more power, newer technologies and less weight.

    The new Cadillac CTS-V comes with one important change so we chose to start with it. The new generation will be an attempt by Cadillac to better differentiate its high-performance models from standard ones and the CTS line will be the first one to benefit from this change. The first change is that the grille of the car no longer resembles the one of a standard 2014 CTS. The new one is both wider and shorter and comes with an entirely new design. The bumper is also different and larger intakes replace the more stylish cutouts in the regular CTS. In addition the vehicle is expected to be even more aerodynamic and there will be air vents on the hood that suggest there’s a force-fed V8 engine inside the car.

    As to engines there’s little information but we do know that the new 2015 Cadillac CTS-V line will come with at least one V8 gasoline engine that will produce around 600 HP (441 kW) and 580 lb-ft (786 Nm) of torque.

    Just like before the main targets of the Cadillac CTS-V will be the 2014 BMW M5 and the current Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. Both cars are slightly more powerful than the Cadillac CTS-V but sell for around USD 90 000 and more, which is a disadvantage when compared to the 2015 Cadillac CTS-V – a car that is expected to sell for around USD 70 000.

    (picture courtesy of TopSpeed)

    Source: Topspeed

  • 2015 Jaguar XE coming out in September

    The 2015 Jaguar XE has been in the news for quite some time but until now no official release date has been mentioned. Well, we now know that the new vehicle will debut on September 8 this year.

    In addition to the official release date Jaguar has treated fans and media-related people with some more details on the new car. The 2015 Jaguar XE will come out with an “aluminum-intensive architecture” that sports integral link rear suspension forged or hollow-cast from aluminum too. The construction is said to deliver “sharp response and handling while retaining a refined, luxurious ride”. The front suspension is a bit different though – it is based on the Jaguar F-Type with a double wishbone setup and XFR levels of stiffness thanks to changes in a few components. Jaguar again promises “agility and connected steering wheel” thanks to the integrated latest generation of electric power steering – a first for the company. The car will also come with “all surface progress control” that improves the Jaguar XE handling in difficult and slippery conditions.

    As to engines the new Jaguar XE will offer a shiny new family of lightweight and turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines. The so-called “Ingenium” line of engines that will be included in the new vehicle are some 80 kilograms lighter than the previous JLR units and will also include a 2.0-liter diesel engine. In addition the engines that will be used in the new XE line are built around 500cc cylinders, which means that Jaguar is likely to offer a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine as well as some more powerful 3.0-liter straight-six units.

    There’s no word on the pricing of the new 2015 Jaguar XE but like we said the car will come out in less than two months time so we will have more information on the price by then for sure.

    Source: Topgear

  • Mercedes-Benz works on new Pullman limousine

    2015-Mercedes-Benz-Pullman-651

    The German automaker Mercedes-Benz will debut the Pullman version of the current S-class in early 2015, online sources say. The new ultra luxurious vehicle will be created and built by tuner Brabus and will feature four doors and six seats.

    The new Pullman model will be based on the 2014 W222 S-class platform and will come with 2+2+2 seating with a middle row of rear-facing seats. The limousine will come in two versions – standard and armored – and will be positioned above the S600 Maybach and the S65 AMG Maybach.

    The upcoming new Mercedes-Benz car is likely to be offered in 4Matic versions only and is expected to be powered by the same 6.0-liter V12 gasoline engine, found in the S600. This unit is capable of delivering 523 HP (385 kW) and 612 lb-ft (830 Nm) of torque. Of course this power will not be the same for the armored version of the Pullman, which will also come with tweaked suspension to accommodate the changes. The Pullman will be a large car – its wheelbase will be about 45 inches (1.15 meters) longer than that of the standard long-wheelbase version of the S-class, while the roof will be about 2.3 inches (5.8 centimeters) higher than in older versions of the Pullman. The car is expected to be 251 inches (6.37 meters) long and the body is said to feature standard rear doors and a reworked C-pillar section that will also debut on the S600 Maybach.

    Being Pullman the new Mercedes-Benz vehicle will offer exclusive interiors. Designed and developed by Brabus, the interior of the new Pullman will include a powered electrochromatic transparent partition between the driver and the passenger compartment, as well as a large flat-panel screen that will rise out of the same partition housing. Both rows of rear-passenger seats will offer folding tables and other amenities stowed in the extensive consoles.

    2015-Mercedes-Benz-Pullman-651-2

    The armored version of the new Pullman is perhaps the more interesting vehicle. It will come with one of the highest levels of ballistic protection available for passenger cars, namely B6/B7, which means it will be able to withstand 7.62 mm NATO rounds as well as provide some protection against grenades and IEDs (improved explosive devices). The protection package also includes runflat tires, a separate oxygen supply against attacks with poison gases, automatic fire extinguishers for the underside of the car, communications equipment and LED strobes as well as siren and PA systems.

    Unfortunately for most people Pullman means high quality, luxury and high price and the new Mercedes-Benz vehicle will be no different. The standard version will sell for around USD 500 000, while the armored Pullman vehicle will start at about USD 1 million. Both versions are expected in early 2015 and will be offered for ordering in H1 2015.

    (pictures courtesy of Autoweek)

    Source: Autoweek

  • 2014 Skoda Octavia – Price

    New-SKODA-Octavia-Scout-tNew-SKODA-Octavia-Scout-651

    Skoda has announced the price of the new 2014 Octavia Scout, which was presented at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, this March.

    Priced from £25,315 ($42,233), the 2014 Skoda Octavia Scout comes with an off-road look and an all-wheel-drive system.  The new wagon model is also offering more room for the passengers and their luggage and more safety and comfort.

    The new Octavia Scout is provided with  a fifth-generation Haldex transmission to shuffle torque respectively and to combat loss of traction during driving. Thanks to the newly AWD, based on the Haldex clutch, the wagon comes with 25% better traction and more climbing power with advanced 4×4 technology.

    In fact the 2014 Scoda Octavia Scout is based on the Combi version of the model. It features more rugged-looking black bumpers, and silver-colored off-road accessories. The front bumper features a broad air intake and fog lights. The side skirts and wheel arches are covered in protective black panels. In comparison to the Combi version, the new Octavia Scout has 33 mm higher ground clearance, 17’’  Proteus light-alloy wheels , spoiler and diffuser on the rear bumper, molded wheel arch extensions and side protection strips.

    There are two engines in the range : a 2.0TDI with a six-speed manual gearbox and power of 150PS (110 kW), and a 2.0TDI with power of 184PS (135 kW) and a six-speed automatic DSG gearbox as a standard.

    Comfortable, feature-packed interior of the new Scout model boasts Alcantara interior, which combines style and comfort. At the same time, the interior reveals a different side of this vehicle. Four-spoke steering wheel and gearstick with 4×4 emblem are also part of the Leather trim interior.

    As options are available a number of electronic comfort systems : Light Assistant and Park Assist. The Scout can also be delivered with a new rear-view parking camera.

    Furthermore, in addition to its off-road ability, the new Octavia Scout offers all the acclaimed safety and comfort features of the standard model. All models are available with up to nine airbags and Crew Protection Assistant for vehicle safety in crash situations and Driver fatigue sensor.

    This off-road Scout is expected on the market in August 2014.

    2014 Skoda Octavia Scout
    2014 Skoda Octavia Scout
    2014 Skoda Octavia Scout

    Source : Skoda

  • BMW-Toyota agreement to revive the Supra

    You may not remember this fact now but a while ago the acclaimed German auto maker BMW and the Japanese Toyota signed an agreement stating that they will release two new sports models on a common platform by the year 2017. So far nothing has come out of the deal but a report by the Nikkei newspaper claims that the deal will bring back the Toyota Supra.

    The upcoming Supra will share the same platform with a future BMW Z4 sports car but both cars will have different bodies. There’s no information whatsoever on the looks, engines, etc. of both cars but the strong fan base of the Supra is the reason for the revival of the brand. This is not surprising – the Supra has always had a large number of fans lusting after it, especially among people who grew up in the 1990s.

    Right now there’s not much more to do than wait for both cars to arrive, most likely in 2017 but judging from the BMW Z4 specs we can expect the future Toyota Supra to come with four- and six-cylinder inline gasoline engines and rear-wheel drive. We are sure that with time passing by there will be more information on both models so check our web site from time to time for more news on the future Z4 and Supra models.

    Source: Jalopnik.com

  • 2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive – Ready To All Roads

    2015-Seat-Leon-ST-4Drive-t2015-Seat-Leon-ST-4Drive-651

    The new Seat Leon is now available in 4Drive all-wheel-drive version.With the complement of the ST 4Drive versions, the Spanish producers successful range now extends its offer with new models equipped with all-wheel drive.

    The new Leon ST 4Drive offers a modern, electronically controlled Haldex clutch system that provides maximum grip on even the most irreconcilable roads. In normal operation, the clutch sends most of the engine power to the front wheels, but when traction suffers, the torque is deflected to the rear as well. The electronic control system is added to bring more safety and dynamics in all driving situations.

    The AWD system works in sync with the four-wheel EDS dynamic control system consisting of electronic differential locks on both axles. The XDS (extended electronic differential lock) provides better traction while cornering. There is also an electronic stability program (ESP) as well as multi-collision brake system for maximum safety. These innovations make the car one of the most versatile and safe in its class.

    2015-Seat-Leon-ST-4Drive-651.1

    “With its new all-wheel drive, the Leon ST 4Drive proves that expressive design, thrilling sporting character and exceptional everyday usability do not have to be mutually exclusive. The 4Drive will build on the success of the new Leon family,” says Jürgen Stackmann, President of SEAT S.A.

    There are two engines in the range: a 1.6 liter TDI and a 2.0 liter TDI with 105 hp (78kw) and 150 hp (111kw), respectively. The smaller is able to average 4.5 liters / 100 km (52.2 mpg US), while the more powerful unit needs 4.8 liters / 100 km (49 mph US). Both are connected with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

    The 2.0 TDI model runs from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.7 seconds, while the 1.6 TDI does it in 12 seconds. Top speed is rated at 211 km/h (131 mph) for the 2.0TDI and 187 km/h (116 mph) for the 1.6TDI.

    An interesting fact is that the both power units are from a very latest  generation of TDI engines, with intelligent thermal management and reduced friction, and also feature a reduced emission rate of only 124 g/km for the 2.0TDI model, and 119 h/km for the 1.6TDI.

    The Seat Leon ST 4Drive will be sold in two trim levels – Style for the both engines and FR for the 2.0TDI.

    Standard equipment includes: seven airbags, tire pressure sensor, hill hold control, Isofix and Top Tether anchoring points in the rear for child seats, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, dual zone climate control, cornering fog lights, Media System Color car stereo, 16 inch alloy wheels, electric heated door mirrors and others.

    In addition to the standard equipment, there is also a wide range of safety and comfort options available for the new SEAT Leon ST 4Drive. These include full LED headlamps, electric panoramic roof, light and rain sensors, front and rear parking sensors, the SEAT Sound System and the navigation system.

    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive
    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive
    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive
    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive
    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive
    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive
    2015 Seat Leon ST 4Drive

    Source : Seat

  • Nissan Leaf – The World’s Cleanest Self-Washing Car

    2015-Nissan-LEAF-t2015-Nissan-LEAF-651

    The 2015 new zero emission hatchback Nissan Leaf was crowned as a cleanest car in the world. Nissan introduced an innovative paint technology that repels mud, water, oil and everyday dirt.

    Nissan Leaf’s exterior was treated with a specially engineered superhydrophobic and oleophobic paint, that repels every dirt by creating a protective layer of air between paint and environment. Rain, mud and oil beads are wiped out from the car, leaving the electric machine clean.

    The special paint is called Ultra-Ever Dry and it was developed by Ultra Tech International. It’s creators say that Nissan is one of the first automakers to embrace the idea, when the project was just an experiment.

    “No matter what the road throws at this LEAF, its Ultra-Ever Dry® exterior coating will throw right back,”  commented the Ultra Tech International Inc. Chef Executive Officer Mark Shaw. He presented the benefits of the superhydrophobic technology and how it creates an “umbrella of air”.

    “The 100 percent electric LEAF provides the perfect canvas for this new, advanced paint technology,” commented  Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc.

    “This is one LEAF that never has to stop at gas stations – not even for a car wash,” he added.

    The full electric Nissan Leaf is available for 2015 in three trim levels: LEAF S, SV and SL, along with options packages including advanced systems such as Around View Monitor and seven-speaker Bose energy-efficient audio and Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant.

    Furthermore the Leaf  can be charged up to 80 percent of its full capacity in just 30 minutes when plugged into a quick charge port and using a fast charger.  Charging at home through a standard 240V socket is calculated roughly to take less than five hours with the 6.6 kW onboard charger.

    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF
    2015 Nissan LEAF

    Source : Nissan

  • Volkswagen T5 by ABT Sportsline

    ABT_T5_Aktionsmodell_tABT_T5_Aktionsmodell_651

    After 11 years of production and going through a huge crisis, the popula Volkswagen T5 is still beloved by it’s fans.

    Because of that, ABT Sportsline – the world’s largest tuning manufacturer presented by Volkswagen Group present a new promotional package for model T5. ABT Sportsline significantly improved the vision of  the T5 by implementing sportier design and improving the performance of the vehicle.

    Thanks to the ABT Springs, the CoG of the vehicle looks lower and improve the overall performance  of the Volkswagen T5. ABT designers also offering  a mighty 20’’ ABT CR double spoke wheels painted in “mystic anthracite matt”, which are completely in harmony with the overall vision.

    The sports impression is complemented by ABT front grille with its frame in the colour of the car. The designers put a discreet rear spoiler making the drivers behind you to know that is not an ordinary tedious van.

    “You now can get the front guard, rear spoiler, springs and a set of 20’’ CR wheels for a special price,” as says the CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt.

    The ABT Sportsline designers have improved the exterior too. They created a new complete body kit, which is full of new accessories like a new front bumper and a new rear diffuser. With all these improvements the German tuning company ABT Sportsline make this classy van even more exciting to drive.

    Volkswagen T5 ABT Sportsline
    Volkswagen T5 ABT Sportsline

    Source : ABT Sportsline

  • Lexus offers turbo or hybrid power in new 2015 NX crossover

    2015-Lexus-NX-200t_t

    Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of the acclaimed Japanese car maker Toyota, has presented the NX compact luxury utility crossover that has a rather tough task ahead of it – to capture market share for the company in the growing market segment of such vehicles.

    So far Lexus has presented two NX models only. The NX 200t comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine while the NX 300h is a hybrid model that brings the number of Lexus hybrid offerings to six, the most among luxury brands. As expected from the famous luxury car maker both models come with tons of new and advanced technology and a number of tech innovations that you will get to enjoy while driving a new Lexus NX vehicle.

    It is really hard to count all tech improvements that you will find in the new Lexus NX line but we will try to list them here anyway. To do so we will start with the company’s first ever turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine. It comes with turbocharged ports and direct injection technology as well as an advanced valve control system that allows the engine to switch between Atkinson cycle and Otto cycle operation for more flexibility and improved fuel efficiency. Turbo lag has been minimized as well thanks to the implementation of a four-into-two exhaust manifold system that reduces pumping losses and eliminates exhaust gas interference. Thus the 2.0-liter gasoline engine produces 235 hp at 5600 rpm with 258 lb.-ft. of torque from 1650 – 4000 rpm. A balance shaft also enhances smoothness but there’s more to the engine – the integrated D-4S fuel injection system provides the optimal mixture of fuel and air to realize highly efficient rapid combustion at all times. In addition to that Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-iW) optimizes torque throughout the engine speed range.

    The NX 200t comes with Lexus’ proven all-weather drive (AWD) technology and Dynamic Torque Control for maximum fraction and cornering stability. This system constantly controls torque transfer between the front and the rear wheels by using sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, yaw rate and throttle angle. Depending on how you drive, the system uses front-wheel drive during normal cruising. When needed, though, it can automatically engage AWD through an electromagnetically controlled coupling that directs up to 50 per cent of available torque to the rear wheels. Dynamic Torque Control on the other hand helps the driver bring back the vehicle to the intended drive line.

    2015-Lexus-NX-300h-651

    Turning to the NX 300h we will see that the new luxury crossover comes with hybrid power and a finely-tuned 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter gasoline engine. This engine comes with some new technology inside so expect to find a water-to-oil cooler for the electric drive motor and a revised front drive reduction ratio that improves both fuel economy and hill climbing. The 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter engine is connected to the new P314 transmission that provides a kick-down function for greater acceleration performance and sequential shift for maximum power to be delivered on demand and increased engine braking when decelerating. Speaking of this the NX 300h comes with Lexus’ electronically controlled braking system, known as ECB-R in order to provide cooperative control of stopping power and regenerative braking while saving on vehicle weight.

    Every hybrid car comes with batteries and the Lexus NX 300h is not an exception. The luxury crossover has two batteries with each one weighing 44 lbs. They are located on each side of the rear seat, improving space efficiency and also center of gravity for enhanced car control.

    Although both models are different in many departments they also share quite a few common features. Thus they all come with an all-new sequential six-speed automatic transmission for achieving an ideal level of boost pressure for performance and fuel economy. The G-force Artificial Intelligence (G-AI) system provides more spirited driving and automatically selects the optimum gear and downshift pattern in response to G force.

    The Lexus NX line will also treat you with MacPherson strut front suspension with high-rigidity components and low-friction moving parts. Low power consumption LEDs for front and rear lights boost the car energy efficiency while high-grade daytime running lamps (DRLs) create distinctive L-shaped light. Lexus also offers an entirely new color for the NX line – Eminent White that creates a metallic-like finish as well as five choices for interior trim, folding rear seats, power liftgate, premium audio technology and more.

    Right now it is not clear when you will be able to see the new Lexus NX line at a dealer near you but likely the new crossover will debut by the end of the year. No word on pricing either.

    2015 Lexus NX 200t
    2015 Lexus NX 200t
    2015 Lexus NX 200t
    2015 Lexus NX 200t

    Source: Lexus

  • No Car Without Entertainment

    For much of the history of the automobile, in-car entertainment has involved sticking your head out of the window like a dog. Sure, we had radios in the past, but they were usually either broken or stolen. Up until 2010, Lexus were still putting tape players in their cars, and while CD’s have had a good run, they’re pretty much done now. Thankfully the short-lived in-car vinyl record player is unlikely to make a comeback, despite the rebirth of the home format amongst audiophiles. (more…)

  • Are Company Car Drivers the worst?

    arlogo_thumb11Following the findings in a recent survey, company car and business owners are more likely to prove careless than private vehicle owners. The research carried out recently by the Institute of Advanced Motorists in Britain concluded many shocking results as part of their IAM Drive and Survive campaign.

    Whilst discriminating against company car drivers as a whole is a vast sweeping generalization, certain precautions need to be taken to improve the safety of the offenders and the larger motoring public. The results of the survey concluded several recurring issues, as reported below.

    1 – Lack of basic maintenance.

    Most readers will already be primed with the importance of carrying out regular checks to their vehicles, particularly during extreme weather conditions and the winter months. Between 54 and 61 per cent of private owners interviewed displayed a positive attitude towards regular maintenance and safety checks for their vehicle. On the contrary, only between 20 and 26 per cent of business drivers exemplified a similar outlook. Needless to say, basic checks on washer fluid, oil and tire pressure are essential to ensure a safer motoring environment. A change in attitude will save companies more money on the whole, especially in combination with selecting more efficient and reliable replacement tires. Clearly too many participants rely solely upon the vehicle’s electronic warning system and annual safety checks in preference to voluntary pre-emptive safety checks.

    2 – Speeding.


    Jeremy Clarkson might have once quoted: “Speed has never killed anyone. Suddenly becoming stationary, that’s what gets you.” Indeed true according to the laws of physics, however speeding in built up areas provides hazards when emergency braking is necessary. The survey astonishingly found that 17 per cent of company driver were more likely to break the speed limit in their work vehicles, by comparison to 11 per cent of leisure motorists. Furthermore, only 31 per cent of participants claimed to never break the imposed limits. Many will shun the evidence on the basis that no respectable employee would admit to speeding whilst clocked in at work. Although these figures still demonstrate a 6 per cent difference in attitudes towards committing these offences. What this translates to in real world driving can only be left to the imagination.

    3 – Fuel Efficient Driving.

    Both business and private owners should take into consideration the cost of fuel whilst using their vehicle. Both basic maintenance and respecting speed limits creates a positive impact on your fuel bill. Clearly, the all-expenses paid environment for company car drivers creates a negative impact on the consciousness of fuel efficient driving, with only 60 per cent acknowledging the need to respect the cost and environmental impact. Private owners demonstrate far more consideration, with a respectable 73 per cent of participants practicing fuel efficient driving.

    4 – Damage and Accidents.

    According to the research, company car drivers are 25 per cent more likely than private users to find themselves involved in a minor accident, with a third of fatal and serious accidents involving business users. Of course the fiscal impact is worrying for any enterprise, let alone the more important human cost. IAM’s Drive and Survive campaign recommends that companies focus on creating a greater awareness of these issues to help to provide a safer working environment for their staff – Indeed, “People are a companies’ biggest asset,” says IAM Drive & Survive’s Chief Executive Simon Best.

    Conclusion.

    The evidence provided demonstrates the need for awareness. Safe motoring relies upon basic vehicle maintenance, respecting speeding laws, fuel efficient driving and a positive attitude.

    “Our findings have highlighted a serious disconnect between the driver and their level of responsibility for the vehicle they drive,” said Simon Best, “It seems that not owning the vehicle reduces the driver’s desire to use it in the safest and most fuel-efficient manner, as well as distancing them from the responsibility of checking their vehicle is road worthy.“