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Arnold Clark pilots Test-Drive Chums

We’re delighted to introduce a new, in-branch initiative designed to help nervous drivers stay calm and focused when completing a test drive.

‘Colin is a very intelligent dog with great sales acumen.' – Richard Kennedy, Arnold Clark Hillington General Manager

‘Colin is a very intelligent dog with great sales acumen.' – Richard Kennedy, Arnold Clark Hillington General Manager

April Fools!

Test-Drive Chums is a pilot experiment being carried out at Arnold Clark's flagship Hillington branch. It is hoped that the initiative will help to ease anxiety at the wheel. Customers of a nervous disposition will be able to choose a canine companion to sit in the passenger seat alongside them while they test-drive their chosen car, to ease any jitters.

Psychologist Dr Trevor Bassett from the University of Shih Tzu in Beijing tested the reactions and responses of over 1000 drivers. According to his research, over 81% performed better at the wheel when an animal was present.

Dr Bassett said:

‘This kind of experiment is used by airlines all around the world to calm nervous flyers, and there’s no reason why it wouldn’t work in a car. Dogs are known for their ability to lower blood pressure and have a positive influence on mood, and are often used for therapeutic purposes.’

Arnold Clark took some pointers from the airline business and used these to inform its new initiative.

So what makes a great Test-Drive Chum?

Dr Bassett continued:

‘We’ve rigorously tested a variety of breeds. Our lab report showed that dogs with a tendency to drool can create health and safety concerns, not to mention prohibitive valeting bills. Great Danes should only be used to test-drive larger SUVs and MPVs with plenty of head and legroom. I personally would recommend a Pomeranian or a Chihuahua for a smaller make of car, such as a Renault Twingo.’

Richard Kennedy, General Manager at Hillington, is enthusiastic about the scheme, and is excited to have welcomed Test Drive Chum Colin to the showroom, where he is currently settling in nicely.

‘Colin is a very intelligent dog with great sales acumen and is always willing to fetch us anything we ask for. He’s an asset to the team, and we look forward to working with him in the future. It’s also pretty funny when he sits behind the wheel and it looks like he’s driving.’

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