Latest news with #KeithHawes
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Chinese competition gathers pace as UK new car sales jump 6.4% in Q1
UK new car registrations rose by 6.4% in Q1 2025, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), as the industry continues its recovery, but the uptick comes amid mounting pressure from rapid EV adoption and intensifying global competition, particularly from China. The UK automotive sector is now valued at over £100 billion, per SMMT figures, but that value is increasingly underpinned by fast-moving developments in electrification, technology, and international market dynamics, according to a newly released report by Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, a UK-based vehicle leasing company and credit broker. The "Future of the Auto Industry Report 2025," outlines the three key disruptors expected to define the market over the next 20 years: Chinese carmakers, the evolution of battery production, and the rise of EVs. 'This growth is encouraging, but it comes at a time of extraordinary change,' said Keith Hawes, Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts. 'Global pressures, particularly from China, are pushing the industry into uncharted territory.' With over 200 Chinese automotive brands now in operation, a majority focused on EVs, Hawes says the impact of China's rapidly expanding automotive footprint will be felt strongly across the UK and Europe. 'We're already seeing momentum from brands like MG, ORA, BYD, and Omoda, and more are coming,' Hawes said. 'Chinese manufacturers are offering advanced EVs at lower prices, which will force legacy brands to rethink their business models or risk being left behind.' He warns that traditional manufacturers may soon face difficult decisions, including the need to merge, share technology, or shrink operations to stay viable. Nationwide Vehicle Contracts also highlights battery production as a pivotal area of change. As large-scale gigafactories begin supplying multiple brands, the report predicts a shift toward platform standardisation, enabling cost savings through shared components. 'You'll see different brands offering unique styling but using the same batteries, motors, and software under the surface,' Hawes explained. This transformation is already having knock-on effects for the servicing and maintenance ecosystem, with EVs requiring significantly fewer parts and visits to service centres. 'Servicing networks as we know them will shrink, and many businesses focused on internal combustion vehicles will need to adapt quickly,' Hawes said. 'Remote diagnostics and over-the-air software updates will allow manufacturers to manage a vehicle's lifecycle more efficiently than ever before.' While the influx of Chinese EVs could improve affordability for UK consumers, Hawes stressed the need for strategic government investment to protect the domestic industry and support its transition. 'These new, lower-cost brands could help meet the UK's 80% EV target by 2030, but domestic infrastructure and investment must keep pace,' he added. Countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Mexico, and South Korea are also expected to play a growing role in global car production, presenting both opportunities and fresh competition. As the UK prepares for a 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts concludes that while current market growth is a positive sign, the auto sector must innovate rapidly to maintain momentum. 'The message to legacy manufacturers is clear,' said Hawes. 'Adapt, collaborate, and evolve—or risk falling behind in the electric age.' "Chinese competition gathers pace as UK new car sales jump 6.4% in Q1" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Daily Record
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Driving in these popular shoes this summer could result in a £5K fine
Motorists are being warned to be cautious when driving in certain footwear. With summer fast approaching and temperatures continuing to soar, many people are opting for easy footwear that is comfortable to wear in the heat, so it's no surprise that Crocs are the must-have summer shoe for 2025. Demand for the popular footwear has skyrocketed in recent years, with 1.3 million Google searches for Crocs in the past month alone. However, experts are now warning that wearing Crocs when driving is not as convenient as many motorists may believe. Being caught wearing the clogs when behind the wheel could actually cost drivers £5000. Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that drivers must have 'footwear and clothing which does not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner'. Whilst it's not illegal to drive in Crocs and sandals, drivers should err on the side of caution as if an accident occurs, the police can issue a fine of up to £5,000 if they find your footwear to be inappropriate. On top of that, drivers can be issued nine points on their license, which can lead to higher insurance prices and further consequences if caught by the police again in the future. Shoes that are not securely fastened to your feet may also be at risk of slipping, which could cause severe safety problems when reaching for the pedals. Keith Hawes, Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: 'While it is not illegal to drive shoeless or in improper footwear, drivers should hold off on wearing footwear that doesn't allow them to operate their car properly. 'Anyone who is driving has the responsibility to operate their car and pedals correctly. "So even with the warm weather, it may seem easy to slip on your Crocs and other sandals, however, this can have a large impact on your ability to drive and safely operate your car. 'Drivers should consider having an extra pair of shoes in their car, but they should make sure they are not too wide or too thick to avoid pressing two pedals at once. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. "Ultimately, an extra pair of shoes will mean drivers can avoid fines and prioritise safety on the roads by ensuring they have the correct footwear for their vehicle." High heels can also significantly reduce your ability to operate pedals when driving. "Again, if your footwear affects your control of the vehicle, motorists could be hit with a £100 fine and three points on your licence. The same applies for flip flops and backless sandals. John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals site said: 'It's easy to overlook how your choice of clothing or footwear can affect your driving, especially in hot weather, but even something as simple as a pair of flip-flops or a long skirt can reduce your control of a vehicle. 'If this leads to an accident or you're stopped by police, you could face serious consequences. 'So we're urging all drivers to think practically before getting behind the wheel this spring and summer - your outfit shouldn't compromise your safety or anyone else's.'
