News In Brief

Smart gets wings....and more

Energy boost for tiny Smart, drivers break the law, UK car sales climb....and more.

Auto Express Car Reviews

28th April 2008

UK Smart is the work of bespoke vehicle builder Carbonyte UK, based in Christchurch, Dorset, and is 5.1 metres long. Yet despite the modifications, it can hit motorway speeds using the original 600cc engine, thanks to a new lightweight alloy chassis. Called Smaaart, the one-off is being used as a Red Bull promotional vehicle – but you can order your own for £25,000.

Shock admission over rules of road
More than one-third of drivers are happy to flout fundamental traffic laws – such as running a red light and not wearing a seatbelt. So says a survey of 1,800 UK motorists by online insurer Elephant. Nearly one in five of those questioned admitted to not using indicators correctly, while the same number think they wouldn’t pass their driving test if they took it again today!

UK bucks Europe sales slowdown
The British car industry is staying afloat as markets across Europe sink. March was the worst month for vehicle sales on the Continent in more than four years, with a 10.2 per cent drop on the same month in 2007. Yet the UK saw a 0.5 per cent rise. Toyota sales fell 17.8 per cent in Europe, but Brit marque MINI bucked the trend with a 21.2 per cent sales hike.

Vauxhall service deal introduced
If peace of mind is a priority, Vauxhall has a great new deal for you. It’s offering cover for servicing and wear and tear on components – on top of the standard warranty – for £29.99 a month. The plan is available through UK main dealers. And if you’re driving long distances this holiday season, book a £35 Summer Safety Check – to ensure your Vauxhall is in tip-top shape.