Arnold Clark gives local team some much needed team spirit

30 Aug 10

Third Lanark A.C. Under 14s were struggling to look and feel like a strong football team, before sponsorship from Arnold Clark allowed them to purchase a brand new strip. The under 14s team were turning up to training wearing mismatching kit, and were consequently losing impact when playing their games. The team now has a fantastic matching kit, which definitely sets them apart when turning up to compete in their football matches.

Tony McNally, manager and coach of Third Lanark A.C. said: “The kids are over the moon with their new kits. It’s fantastic to see them looking like a professional team when they play, and it has definitely brought a sense of unity and spirit to the games and training. All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the sponsorship from Arnold Clark.”

Paul Gorman initially established the club and named it Castleglen F.C, but when Tony took over, he decided to change the name to its current form, Third Lanark A.C. The team trains twice a week, and each session is used to target different areas. The team get together on a Monday at a local gym to ensure their fitness, diet and nutrition is up to scratch, before heading to their home ground, Barlia Sports Complex in Castlemilk, on a Wednesday to make sure their ball work and skills are top notch.

And it certainly looks like the boys are doing something right! In the 2^nd season of the Glasgow and District Youth League, Third Lanark A.C finished second, and Tony has his sights set on first place for the team this time round. He said: “To me, the club means everything. I recently lost my job due to illness, and have devoted myself to doing football coaching to make sure we have the best possible club in Glasgow. The club is there for the community; it’s there so these kids can get off the streets and channel all their energy into constructive and rewarding sport, with great coaching in a fun and safe environment.”

The Nissan Juke at Arnold Clark Nissan for one day only

25 Aug 10

On Saturday 27th August, the Nissan Juke will begin its exclusive tour of all the Arnold Clark Nissan dealerships, stopping at the branches for one day only. This sneak preview tour will begin in Dundee, and will complete its tour of Scotland in Dumbarton on Friday 3rd September. The Nissan Juke tour offers customers a sneak preview of the latest addition to the ever expanding Nissan range, ahead of its official launch on Friday 24th September. 

Priced from £12,795, the eagerly anticipated Nissan Juke is no conventional hatchback. With its bold style and air of sophistication, this compact crossover is guaranteed to turn heads. A full range of accessories is also available to put your individual stamp on the Juke.

If you realise the Juke is your dream car, then orders can be placed now ahead of its launch. For further information on the Nissan Juke tour, visit www.arnoldclark.com/nissan or contact your local Arnold Clark Nissan dealer.

ArnoldClark.com is ranked No 1 Dealer Website once again

12 Aug 10

ArnoldClark.com has been ranked the number one website for Automotive Dealerships by Hitwise in January 2010 through to June 2010. The Hitwise Number 1 Award recognizes websites from over 150 industries that are leaders in their trade.

Since the re-launch of the website in July 2009, ArnoldClark.com continues to grow from strength-to-strength, having already scooped the annual Auto Trader Click Award' for 'Best Used Car Locator' for the 3rd consecutive year, and ranked 3rd in the Motor Trader Top 200 Dealer Groups.

ArnoldClark.com provides users with a one-stop motoring shop, with its award-winning advanced search facility, which allows users to search for their perfect vehicle by price, make, model, colour, fuel consumption, and even road tax bracket. In addition, the all-new budget calculator helps buyers to choose from a range of cars, suited specifically to their budget.

Sir Arnold Clark, Chairman and Chief Executive of Arnold Clark Automobiles, commented, “ArnoldClark.com was re-launched in July 2009, and to be awarded the accolade of No 1 Dealer Website for the 1st half of 2010 is a tremendous achievement. I attribute the website’s popularity to its easy navigation, allowing customers to find the right car, at the right price. The site is updated daily with the latest new and used car deals, so customer’s can always find a deal that suits them.”

To browse over 13,000 new, nearly new and used cars, visit www.arnoldclark.com.

Vauxhall first to offer Lifetime Warranty on all new cars

09 Aug 10

Arnold Clark Vauxhall is delighted to announce that all new Vauxhall cars are now covered by lifetime warranty from the day of registration and comprehensive OEM warranty covers all major components throughout the cars life.

Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty will apply to the first owner of any Vauxhall car registered from August 1 2010. Warranty coverage continues throughout the life of the car until it reaches 100,000 miles.

'With the Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty, we are making a strong statement of confidence in the quality of our products and a clear intent to provide the very best customer service in the UK,' said Duncan Aldred, Managing Director of Vauxhall Motors.

The comprehensive new OEM warranty cover includes powertrain, steering system, brake system and electrical equipment throughout the life of the vehicle. To maintain the Lifetime Warranty, owners simply need to visit a Vauxhall retailer annually for a free vehicle inspection.  Vauxhall is also set to announce details of a further programme enabling second owners to purchase the Lifetime Warranty.

Arnold Clark Vauxhall franchise manager said, "The announcement further enhances the appeal of Vauxhall's world-class car range.  It is an exciting offering for customers and one not to be missed!"  

Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty is the latest innovation from the UK's oldest surviving car maker, which this year celebrates its 107th anniversary. Since 2006, the company has launched a raft of world-class products, including the latest Corsa, Agila, Meriva and Astra models, as well as the European Car of the Year-winning Insignia.

'Great design, engineering excellence and innovative thinking come as standard with every new Vauxhall so a lifetime warranty, with its boost to the customer ownership experience, is a natural extension to the appeal of our products', added Duncan Aldred.

For more information, contact your local Arnold Clark dealership.

Diesel cars experience increased sales

09 Aug 10

More diesel cars were sold in Britain last month than their petrol-driven counterparts, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) latest survey revealed.

The survey of new car registrations showed that in July, diesel cars took a record high 50.6 per cent of the market share after rising 11.8 per cent, while petrol car registrations declined by 13.2 per cent.

Sales of alternative fuel vehicles such as hybrids claimed an all-time high of 1.4 per cent after a 52.6 per cent rise.

The weak economy and uncertainty surrounding the Coalition Government's austerity measures are thought to be the main factors driving down the sale of petrol cars.

Diesel fuel is often up to 20 per cent more efficient than petrol and improvements in diesel car technology, such as the invention in the late 1980s of turbo-charged direct injection (TDI) engines, have also contributed to the rise in popularity of diesel vehicles.

Visit Arnold Clark today to get the best deals on hybrid and diesel cars. 

Stirling enjoys its local Arnold Clark dealership

03 Aug 10

Ever since the opening of Arnold Clark Citroen/Hyundai on 1st June at Craigleith Road, Stirling has enjoyed the breath of fresh air it has brought to the car industry in the local area. The modern and large dealership is ready to welcome all its customers; a fact shown by the ample customer parking found at the branch, which sits only half a mile from Stirling city centre.

General manager, Scott Wilson, says: “There’s such a friendly and relaxed environment at the dealership. We have also been so pleased with the level of repeat business. It’s nice to know we must be doing something right! It’s great to bring such a national brand like Arnold Clark to the local community, and what’s even better, is that we have brought them all the choice, variety and value too!”

With an excess of 50 staff, some with 20 years’ experience working for Arnold Clark, the whole team has gelled together very well. And they definitely have an excellent working space to do so in. With complimentary tea and coffee, a modern widescreen TV boasting all the amazing offers at the branch, and a kids’ playing area to follow, the branch is certainly shaping up to be just what Stirling needs. Scott comments: “We have over 300 cars on display here, with a varied mix of used cars, and amazing new car offers on both Citroen and Hyundai. We also have Motability specialists at hand, who have proved very popular so far.”

To visit Arnold Clark Stirling Citroen/Hyundai, head down to Craigleith Road in Broadleys Industrial Estate. Here you will find all the fantastic offers Arnold Clark has to give its customers, plus the latest deals on the brand new 60 plates.

Hybrid Radio: The Car Radio of Tommorow

30 Jul 10

Volkswagen has joined forces with radio station Hit-Radio Antenne Niedersachsen to develop the radio of the future: the Hybrid Radio. The listener can use the system according to his or her individual needs and decide on how and when he or she listens to the radio. 

“The Hybrid Radio is bound to be a success, as it fulfils the listener demands of tomorrow by combining the classic car radio with the internet”, said Martin Weiser, Head of Driver Information Systems at Volkswagen. “As the car is one of the most important locations for listening to the radio, this concept is particularly significant for Volkswagen as an automobile manufacturer,” added Weiser.

Via an internet interface, the user starts by creating a personalised playlist which can range from local news through to diverse musical specials. The selections can then be chosen from the playlist in the car.

The project will pick up speed as early as 2011, when the first field tests will be carried out in the Lower Saxony area. In these efforts, special emphasis will be placed on simple user-friendly navigation of the playlist, which is sent to the car via mobile internet: one will be able to listen to a desired selection with just one push of a button.

Arnold Clark is highly commended at National Supplier Awards

21 Jul 10

Arnold Clark has been commended at the fifth annual Supplier Awards, presented by Motability Operations, the company that operates the Motability car, powered wheelchair and scooter scheme. The awards recognise the people and businesses who deliver outstanding choice, excellence and customer satisfaction to over half a million Motability customers. Arnold Clark was commended in the Vehicle Remarketing Partner category.

Mike Betts, chief executive, Motability Operations, explains "The Supplier Awards are an opportunity for us to offer sincere thanks to the people who deliver fantastic results for both our customers and our business. In 2009 Motability achieved the highest ever levels in customer satisfaction. The last year would not have been possible without the support and partnership of our dedicated suppliers and business partners."

Arnold Clark was specifically rewarded for "achieving a strong working relationship across all levels of the business, and proactive embracing of new initiatives. Arnold Clark has consistently been an engaged and enthusiastic business partner for Motability Operations over the last 12 months. Judges praised the great attitude from branch level to management, and a huge increase in performance throughout the year."

The Motability Operations Supplier Awards took place at a business lunch on 16th July at Brocket Hall in Hertfordshire and were hosted by BBC newsreader Huw Edwards.

Brits should stay and enjoy the UK this summer

16 Jul 10

A British summer has not always been an overly appealing option for a lot of UK residents. However, with recent statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showing that visits abroad by UK residents in 2009 fell by 15%, the fastest rate since the 1970s, it seems that a British summer is exactly what UK residents are looking for.

Arnold Clark is happy to help you enjoy your home country this summer, offering major discounts on car and van rental, with as much as 15% off the listed price. So even without your own transport, you can now travel to your chosen destination at your leisure, and enjoy the scenery along the way. With Arnold Clark, we can help relieve the stress brought on by the recession, and allow you to enjoy your break without the worries of volcanic ash or currency exchange rates clouding over the excitement surrounding a holiday. Arnold Clark is already seeing a strong increase in booking rentals online, showing that UK residents are already taking advantage of this fantastic offer.

Although it's a known fact that Brits often search for an unbeatable combination when booking their holidays - sun, sea and sand - these are elements that are not always appealing or indeed available in the UK. However, with Positive Weather Solutions (PWS) forecasting British citizens their highest temperatures since records began 160 years ago, the UK may be the place to be in July and August. PWS predicts unbroken sunshine in August especially, with record temperatures, and is certainly showing that British beaches this summer are going to be just as enjoyable as those abroad.

For more information on this fantastic offer, visit www.arnoldclarkrental.com to find your perfect holiday vehicle and your nearest branch. Arnold Clark is also happy to do local pick up and collection, making the whole transition even smoother.

Honda CR-Z wins Best Sports Car at WHAT CAR? Green Awards

16 Jul 10

The Honda CR-Z has won Best Sports Car at the What Car? Green Awards and commended for its best-in-class economy and value for money.

The CR-Z, won praise for its sharp handling, efficient engine and sporty looks, as well as its unique design.

What Car? editor-in-chief Steve Fowler said: "The CR-Z is small and light and looks just right, and it's powered by hybrid technology which means it's clean and efficient to run too. The CR-Z is the greenest and most cost effective sports car available in the market place today."

As the first hybrid with a sporty 6-speed manual gearbox, the CR-Z stands out from other green cars on the market and offers true driving thrills thanks to an agile chassis, direct steering, a low driving position and boosts of torque from the petrol-electric drivetrain.

To view or test drive the Honda CR Z, visit Arnold Clark Honda.

Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion Named WHAT CAR? Green Car of the Year

15 Jul 10

Volkswagen's BlueMotion range of vehicles has added a further three awards - including overall Green Car of the Year - to its list of accolades, this time at the What Car? Green Awards 2010.

The Golf BlueMotion was named best Green Small Family Car, and also beat eight other category winners to claim the overall Green Car of the Year title. The Passat BlueMotion won the Green Family Car award.

Commenting on the Golf BlueMotion, Steve Fowler, What Car?'s editor-in-chief, said: 'The Golf is a well deserved award winner: carbon dioxide emissions are a paltry 99 g/km making it exempt from road tax and its average fuel economy is 74.3 mpg. So, as well as being impressively green, the Golf is classy, well made, practical, safe, brilliant to drive and an affordable long-term investment. There surely aren't many other virtues you need?'

Its remarkable economy is achieved through a package of measures which includes a Start/Stop system, low rolling resistance tyres, battery regeneration, revised gearing, a multifunction computer providing visual gear change recommendation for optimum fuel consumption and aerodynamic changes.

In April this year, the Polo, Golf and Passat BlueMotion models claimed the Green Car of the Year award at the 2010 World Car of the Year awards.

Visit your local Arnold Clark Volkswagen dealership for further information of the BlueMotion range.

Abarth 500C and Abarth Punto Evo Arrive at Arnold Clark 

12 Jul 10

To celebrate the launch of the brand new Abarth 500C and Abarth Punto Evo, Arnold Clark is inviting you to be one of the first in Scotland to view and test drive both these stunning new models on Sunday 18^th July.

Arnold Clark is the only Abarth dealer in Scotland and is hosting an Italian themed event supplying food and refreshments with trained Abarth specialists on hand to help to answer any questions.

Guaranteed to turn heads, both the Abarth 500C and Abarth Punto Evo are infused with style and design. The Abarth 500C is the first convertible to join the family. So why not call in to see why it's no ordinary convertible. In contrast the Abarth Punto Evo is mean, aggressive and sports state-of-the-art engine technology.

New Car Registrations up 10.8% in June

06 Jul 10

"The new car market continued to perform above expectations in June, with fleet sector registrations up 25% compared to this time last year. The results indicate improved business confidence and a strengthening economic recovery," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. "The industry still expects challenging economic conditions in the second half of the year and government action to improve access to credit for consumers and businesses will be important in sustaining the momentum of recovery."

Market up 20.4% in past 12 months to 2.179 million, but sales to dip by year end

• New car registrations climbed by 19.9% in the first half of 2010, up by over 180,000 to 1.1 million units. Volumes in the latest quarter were up 11.8%.

• The fleet market rebounded in June, up 25.3% on the volume recorded a year earlier, whilst business volumes rose by 18.4%. Private demand was almost unchanged, down 3.3%. Over the first half of the year private demand has shown the largest rise, up 24.6%, boosted by the scrappage scheme. The scheme closed to new orders in March.

• Alternatively fuelled vehicle (AFV) registrations matched their largest ever market share, at 1.2% in June. AFV volumes rose by 157.4% in the month and have grown by over 150% in four of the past six months. The rise in diesel sales helped sustain total market growth. The Nissan Qashqai was the best selling diesel in June.

• The Vauxhall Astra was the best selling model in June, its first number one slot since February 2008. Ford's Fiesta had the highest registrations over the first half of 2010.

View the wide range of new cars, nearly new cars and used cars at your local Arnold Clark dealership.

Sir Arnold Clark Once Again Supports the Rainbow Room

1 July 2010

Sir Arnold Clark is once again delighted to provide further support to the Tillington Manor Rainbow Room by donating a cheque for an amazing £30,000.  Having already supported this facility for the last two years, making two previous donations of £25,000, Sir Arnold Clark was more than happy to extend his support for this extremely worthwhile cause and to ensure its continued success for a further three years.

The Rainbow Room was set up for the children of Tillington Manor Primary School who require additional assistance within the classroom. This can be due to several causes such as social and educational problems and so the financial support given by Sir Arnold Clark will enable these children to improve every aspect of their school life. 

Jane Kelly, the teacher in charge of this support facility, uses various teaching methods in order to facilitate every child's individual needs which will result in more comfortable and confidant pupils.  When asked about this very generous donation Jane said "We realise that every child has potential and our nurturing atmosphere and small group sizes gives them the opportunity to develop this - something which, without this kind gesture from Sir Arnold Clark, would not be possible".

Managing Director of Arnold Clark Automobiles, Eddie Hawthorne, visited the school to present the cheque for £30,000.  He said "Meeting the children who are benefiting from the resources of The Rainbow Room was an honourable experience.  I was extremely pleased to be able to continue helping these children and really enjoyed seeing how they are developing from this support".

For more information on The Rainbow Room and Arnold Clark please visit www.tillingtonmanor.staffs.sch.uk and www.arnoldclark.com, visit Arnold Clark Motorstore, Stafford or your Arnold Clark local dealership.

EconoWise - Driving Motoring Costs 'Down Down' with Arnold Clark

29 June 2010

With the weather looking more promising and the recent budget tugging on purse strings, many people may be considering a staycation this summer. With this in mind, Arnold Clark's EconoWise campaign this week reveals:

• Top 10 fuel efficient cars and destinations you can travel to on one tank of fuel
• Exclusive online booking discount for Car & Van Rental
• Arnold Clark Servicing & Repairs EconoWise Offers

This week's Top 10 EconoWise Cars from Arnold Clark

15% Discount on Car & Van Rental - Car hire from only £21.25 per day

For those who would rather hire a car or van for their staycation, the Arnold Clark EconoWise campaign is providing a 15% discount for all online bookings made before 31^st July 2010. From small, nippy city cars like the Kia Picanto to MPVs and estate cars, perfect for camping trips or even executive cars for those who prefer a more luxurious ride, Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental has it covered. And with a 15% discount available, there is no better time to hire the perfect car for a staycation.

EconoWise with Arnold Clark Servicing & Repairs

Keeping your car in tip top condition can not only help prevent costly repairs but it can also help to reduce motoring costs. With Arnold Clark Servicing & Repairs, EconoWise is as easy as 1, 2, 3, ensuring your car is running at its optimum level.

• EconoWise 1 - FREE Vehicle health check
• EconoWise 2  - As EconoWise 1 + fuel treatment - only £15
• EconoWise 3 - as EconoWise 2 + emissions check - only £25

Sir Arnold Clark comments, "Although price is the main priority for most, we have identified, through our recent survey, that miles per gallon and yearly road tax costs are also an important contributing factor for our customers when they are looking to purchase a vehicle. Our top EconoWise cars have more than 50 miles per gallon and low road tax, which will help to keep overall motoring costs down. Our commitment to offering genuine value for money is strengthened further with additional EconoWise savings on car and van rental and servicing."

Be wise, EconoWise with Arnold Clark. Look out for more money saving motoring tips and advice together with further incredible offers from Arnold Clark. Visit your local dealership or www.arnoldclark.com for further information.

Arnold Clark supports In-Car Child Safety

21 June 2010

Over the last seven years, almost 7000 child car seats have been tested at special car clinics across the country and over half (51%) were either incorrectly fitted or incompatible with the child or make or model of the car they were being used in.

For the ninth consecutive year, Arnold Clark supports the 'Good Egg In-Car Child Safety' initiative and comments on his delight that locally organised child car seat safety clinics will be taking place in every local authority area in Scotland, to give practical help and advice to parents and to reduce the number of incorrectly fitted child car seats. The initiative has helped contribute to another positive reduction in child road casualties with the latest Scottish Government statistics showing a 4% reduction in in-car child casualties from 2008*.

The Good Egg Guide to In-Car Child Safety provides information on how to fit a child seat, choosing the right seat, the law and your responsibilities. It offers practical advice and highlights areas where improvements could be made to in-car child safety and to help reduce the number of child passenger casualties.

Sir Arnold Clark, Chairman and Chief Executive said, "As an employer of over 8,000 employees, a father and a great grandfather, I am very conscious that children should be safe when they are travelling in a car. It doesn't take much time to check a car seat is fitted properly and it'll be too late after a collision.  We urge parents to ensure that their child seats are fitted safely - it could ultimately save their child's life."

*Scottish Government Key 2009 Reported Road Casualty Statistics; based on 569 recorded in-car child casualties in 2008 and 548 in 2009.

Renault To Go time at Arnold Clark

21 June 2010

For the ninth consecutive year, Arnold Clark Automobiles is proud to present the fantastic Renault To Go weekend.  World cup themed, the three day spectacular starts on Friday 25th to Sunday 27^th June and offers buyers a superb range of specially selected vehicles with amazing savings as well as an exclusive free servicing deal.

Renault is delivering over 400 cars exclusively to Arnold Clark for this once a year event, giving buyers the chance to view an exceptional range of nearly new cars.  In addition, those who purchase over the Renault To Go weekend, will receive a free two year/ 24,000 mile service plan worth up to £400.   

Starting with a VIP evening on Friday 25^th June, branches across the UK will kick start the celebrations with delicious buffets with food and flavours from around the world.   Following on from the VIP nights, a feast of fun and entertainment will run throughout the Saturday and Sunday with BBQs and beat the goalie - guaranteeing a great day out for all the family.

In addition, a free prize draw will offer guests the opportunity to win some great prizes, including the Laguna Coupe for a week this summer.

David Munton, Arnold Clark franchise manager said, "I am delighted that for the 9^th time in a row, Renault To Go is back.  The weekend gives customers the opportunity to save thousands on a special range of Renaults and promises to be a great day out for all the family with an array of entertainment at the Arnold Clark Renault dealerships across the UK."

Customers truly have something to celebrate this coming weekend.  For further details, visit your nearest Renault dealership.

Kia Sedona Wins Best MPV in Practical Caravan-What Car? Towcar Awards

16 June 2010

Long-time caravanners' favourite, the Kia Sedona has added the Practical Caravan-What Car? Towcar Awards best MPV title to its list of accolades - winning over the judges with its prodigious towing capability thanks to its new 2.2 litre diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

Regarded as the toughest tow car competition, the Practical Caravan-What Car? Awards put contenders through the most thorough testing and the Sedona 2.2CRDi won praise for its outright ability.

Towcar Editor, David Motton said: "The Sedona with its new, more powerful engine mated to a six-speed gearbox represents a lot of car for the money and there is little it cannot tow."

Meanwhile, Nigel Donnelly, Practical Caravan's Editor added: "It was clear from our tests that when towing the Sedona sticks doggedly to the driver's intended course - vital for every caravan owner."

The Sedona features an all-new four cylinder 2.2 litre 16 valve engine with a variable geometry turbocharger and common-rail injection. That develops 192bhp at 3,800rpm and in the six-speed automatic version torque is upped to 436Nm or 322lb ft between 1800 and 2500rpm delivering exceptional flexibility just where caravanners want it - in the middle of the cruising range.

The new engine and auto-box also delivers outstanding refinement and economy with reduced CO₂ emissions.

That prompted What Car? Editor in Chief, Steve Fowler to comment: "A strong engine, a stable towcar and a spacious cabin. Our favourite MPV in this year's tests."

And for those who want to see if Practical Caravan and What Car? are right in their judgement then it is reassuring to know the Sedona can tow up to 2,000kgs behind it.

View the Kia Sedona range at your nearest Arnold Clark Kia dealership.

Be Wise, EconoWise with Arnold Clark 

7 June 2010

In response to a recent survey of its customers, Arnold Clark is this week launching its new campaign "EconoWise".

69.6% of customers said they think they will need to economise once the emergency Budget is announced on 22^nd June.

With the new Government holding its emergency budget, many people may feel uncertain financial times are ahead. The Arnold Clark Group, in response to its survey, is launching a new campaign to help ease the financial strain that some may feel.

"EconoWise" will provide consumers with outstanding deals not only on new, nearly new and used cars, but will provide savings for customers across the entire motoring spectrum including Servicing and Car & Van Rental.

Sir Arnold Clark comments, "Our new EconoWise campaign is simply responding to the needs of our customers. Not only are we continuing to provide genuine value for money with our remarkable savings on vehicles, but we are also providing savings across the entire motoring spectrum. Now that scrappage has finished, we are offering customers alternative saving solutions to help keep them on the road."

Over the coming weeks, Arnold Clark will be issuing its top weekly offers to help customers 'EconoWise', which will include savings on vehicles of up to £9000 on cost new together with discounts on Car & Van Rental and budget-busting offers on Servicing. These weekly offers will also be followed by top tips and advice on how customers can econowise their overall motoring costs.

This week's Top 10 EconoWise savings from Arnold:

Other phenomenal cars that stand out include:

 Be wise, EconoWise with Arnold Clark. Look out for more money saving motoring tips and advice together with further incredible offers from Arnold Clark. Visit your local dealership for further information.

Results from Arnold Clark Marketing survey carried out on 4^th June 2010.

Toyota Celebrates 3 Million Vehicles Made in the UK

07 Jun 10

 Today, Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK) will produce its 3 millionth vehicle manufactured in the UK. To celebrate this production milestone and to demonstrate continued commitment to the environment, workers will plant a commemorative tree.

A 1.33 litre Auris, with Stop/ Start technology, will become the milestone vehicle when it drives off the assembly line nearly 18 years after the start of UK production in December 1992.

To celebrate, 25 employees from across the company - a cross section of 400 employees who originally joined the company at the start of production who still work at the plant - will plant a commemorative tree.

The employees will be joined by Heather Wheeler MP, South Derbyshire.

Katsunori Kojima, Managing Director, said: "Reaching this milestone shows our commitment to local production here at Burnaston and at our engine plant in North Wales."

"This is a fantastic achievement for us and we are delighted to celebrate this occasion with some of our loyal and committed members who were present at the start of production."

The first vehicle produced by Toyota in Europe, a Carina E, drove off the Burnaston production line on the 16th December 1992. Nine years later, in April 2001, TMUK produced its one millionth vehicle. The two millionth vehicle was manufactured in October 2005.

Later this month will see the start of production of the Auris Hybrid Synergy Drive vehicle and engine at Burnaston and Deeside.

For further information on the latest Toyota offers from Arnold Clark, visit your local Arnold Clark Toyota dealership.

Strong May Rise of 13.5% for New Car Registrations

04 Jun 10

• New car registrations climbed 13.5% in May, marking the eleventh successive monthly rise.
• Full year registrations total expected to dip slightly as scrappage boost comes to an end.
• Fleet and private markets show positive gain in May up by 16.0% and 12.3% respectively.

"May was another good month for the UK new car market, although we expect the coming months to be extremely challenging," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. "It is essential that the upcoming emergency budget promotes consumer and business confidence to maintain economic recovery."
 
The new car market posted growth from both fleet and private buyers in May, although this was against weak 2009 volumes. A modest decline in registrations is expected in the second half of the year, with wider economic recovery and supportive government policies being sought to sustain the market in coming months.

Registrations in May were up 13.5% to 153,095 units. Volumes over the first five months of the year have risen 22.0%. The growth reflects the weakness of the 2009 market, with May volumes still 14.6% or 26,177 units down on the 2008 level.

The final few scrappage registrations continue to feed the market, following the scheme's closure to new orders in March. The Scrappage Incentive Scheme started on 18 May 2009 and since then has averaged 17% of monthly new car registrations. Almost all orders have now been delivered with only 2.7% of the May market coming through the scheme.

Alternatively fuelled vehicle registrations rose 195.3% to take a 1.1% market share in May and diesel demand rose 21.0% reaching 46.9%, almost matching its best ever share.

Peugeot's UK Managing Director Launches £1 million 'Blue Box' in Inverness

1 June 2010

Jon Goodman, Managing Director of Peugeot UK, officially opened the state-of-the-art Arnold Clark Peugeot dealership in Inverness after a £1 million refurbishment, and unveiled the striking new Peugeot RCZ.  Jon commented, "I am absolutely delighted to be officially opening the Peugeot dealership in Inverness.  This is an outstanding facility which I am sure will be enjoyed by Inverness and the surrounding areas."

"The Peugeot RCZ has proved to be hugely successful in the Inverness area, already having a waiting list for test drives and new car orders.  Hailed as the new chapter in Peugeots history, the RCZ sets the benchmark for compact coupes."

The event wasn't just to celebrate the launch of the branch and the unveiling of the RCZ, but also to support Help for Heroes.  Arnold Clark donated £10 on behalf of each guest for their attendance and raised a staggering £2500.

Over 200 guests were piped in by Madonna's infamous piper and treated to champagne and canapés, whilst being entertained by local band, Tin Pan Alley.  Local businesses including the Riverside Gallery and The Drawing Room showcased their latest products, while American Golf arrived with a golf simulator to help guests brush up on their golfing skills.  Dior and Clarins from Debenhams provided demonstrations and beauty tips, as health and beauty salon, Fantasia treated guests to a nail file and polish. 

All the local businesses contributed prizes towards the free prize draw which included winning the Peugeot RCZ for a weekend, vouchers from Fantasia and Angela Stewart creative flowers and various Peugeot merchandise.

Jim Proctor, Arnold Clark Peugeot Inverness general manager said, "It is a pleasure to welcome new and existing customers into the dealership.  I'm honoured to be part of this exciting time, both for Arnold Clark and Peugeot as they enter a new chapter in the car market, especially as they launch the elegant RCZ."

As well as the full collection of Peugeots on display, the Inverness dealership showcased the 2009 Peugeot 207 Rally Car which Peugeot driver Kris Meeke won the IRC championship with.

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