Category Archives: Motoring News

Drivers addicted to anti-social media


The latest report on motoring from the RAC Foundation has found that 19% of under 24-year-olds have used social media while driving. All motorists have been aware of the dangers of holding mobile phones (21% have admitted to doing that), then the big danger became texting (38% of the under 44 year-old age group say they are guilty).  Now we have social media to worry about as well.  The idea of updating your Facebook profile on the move is probably quite attractive – until the update says, “Just crashed my car” – or worse.

Latest NCAP safety scores released


The safety organisation Euro NCAP has released the test results for the BMW 3 Series, Hyundai i30,Mazda CX-5 and Peugeot 208.All four achieved a top 5 star score, although there were some differences between them. Euro NCAP said that, “car makers are rising to Euro NCAP’s challenging 2012 5 star requirements, especially in the area of pedestrian protection where the thresholds have been significantly increased this year.”

Three-quarters of drivers can’t check their oil


A survey commissioned by Mobil, purveyors of sensational engine oil, has found that 75% of British drivers don’t know how to check their car’s oil. Half of all drivers don’t even know why oil is used. Mobil sells oil, by the way.Most staggeringly, 94% of motorists surveyed by Mobil – the company that sells Mobil 1 oil – are unaware that using the correct oil can significantly prolong the life of an engine, as well as improving fuel economy. Mobil sells Mobil 1 oil.

FTA slams Dartford toll increase

The Freight Transport Association has slammed the Government for increasing charges at the Dartford River Crossing. The first rise comes in October this year, when the toll for a heavy goods vehicle will jump by £1.30, to £5.00. Drivers using the ‘Dart-Tag’ will see their fee jump from £3.20 to £4.33. Car users will see a 50p increase.

Classic cars to be exempt from MoT test


The DVLA has confirmed that classic cars will be exempt from the MoT test, following a public consultation. The announcement was made by Roads Minister Mike Penning today, who said: “We are committed to cutting out red tape which costs motorists money without providing significant overall benefits.