Proton has introduced a range of GEN-2 Special Edition vehicles, available with a host of extras as standard, plus great finance deals and an extended warranty.
Until 30th June 2009, customers opting for any GEN-2 SE model will benefit from a 5 year warranty and FREE metallic paint. Choose either of the hatchback SE models to get a FREE 10-CD changer, plus the GLS SE hatchback also comes with 3 years FREE servicing. For a FREE leather interior worth £1,000, customers can opt for the GSX SE (hatchback) or Persona SE (saloon) models. All GEN-2 SE models also come branded with a Special Edition badge and Special Edition interior carpet mats.
As if all this wasn’t enough, Proton is offering exclusive finance deals across the GEN-2 Special Edition range, including 0% finance for up to 2 years. Low rate finance is also available for up to 5 years.
The GEN-2 SE range is available from just £10,995 OTR. For more information, please visit www.proton.co.uk
Wednesday, 11 March 2009
Stuff2Send urges 30 million motorists to earn while they drive
A web site that puts motorists in touch with parcels and packages that need to go their way, has attracted 1,100 members since launch in December 2008. Now, more car drivers are being urged to join, using empty space in their cars to deliver stuff and make money for journeys they already do.
“In a recession we all need ways to make the most of the resources we have,” said www.stuff2send.com founder Colin Hay. “Britain’s 30 million cars abound with empty space that could be used to carry parcels and packages. To commuters, students and regular distance drivers we say this; you could be earning while you drive.”
To date, the lion’s share of ‘delivery drivers’ using www.stuff2send.com have been couriers. And many bulkier items like furniture, automotive parts and industrial equipment, can only be carried in larger vans.
However, since Stuff2Send began working with eBay users in February, the number of smaller items like boxes of documents, guitars, clothes and toys has grown. Now the site needs more private motorists to bid for jobs, helping themselves make money, those sending stuff to save it and helping driving down unnecessary emissions from road transport in the process.
Benefits for car owners
Registering as a delivery driver costs £11 a year. The first delivery easily pays back the registration fee as one regular Stuff2send user has found. He’s earned more than £100, from three deliveries in one month.
Benefits for those sending stuff
For senders the site is free to use and offers convenient collection times, as well as a door-to-door service. In February, Amanda Webster paid just £20 to deliver two wheelchairs from Manchester to Birmingham at a time that suited her. The cheapest commercial quote was £200.
Benefits for couriers
Net-savvy white van men are already using Stuff2Send to connect with packages and parcels, boosting income. Mick Davidson of Carrick Couriers was one of the first. “Stuff2Send put me in touch with a customer 400 miles away who I wouldn't otherwise have known about,” he said. “We both gained from the service.”
Benefits for the environment
Every vehicle journey shared with a parcel or package is one less car or van on the road. That means less CO2 and other pollutants in the environment – and less congestion. Stuff2Send also cuts down on unnecessary packaging and waste.
“In a recession we all need ways to make the most of the resources we have,” said www.stuff2send.com founder Colin Hay. “Britain’s 30 million cars abound with empty space that could be used to carry parcels and packages. To commuters, students and regular distance drivers we say this; you could be earning while you drive.”
To date, the lion’s share of ‘delivery drivers’ using www.stuff2send.com have been couriers. And many bulkier items like furniture, automotive parts and industrial equipment, can only be carried in larger vans.
However, since Stuff2Send began working with eBay users in February, the number of smaller items like boxes of documents, guitars, clothes and toys has grown. Now the site needs more private motorists to bid for jobs, helping themselves make money, those sending stuff to save it and helping driving down unnecessary emissions from road transport in the process.
Benefits for car owners
Registering as a delivery driver costs £11 a year. The first delivery easily pays back the registration fee as one regular Stuff2send user has found. He’s earned more than £100, from three deliveries in one month.
Benefits for those sending stuff
For senders the site is free to use and offers convenient collection times, as well as a door-to-door service. In February, Amanda Webster paid just £20 to deliver two wheelchairs from Manchester to Birmingham at a time that suited her. The cheapest commercial quote was £200.
Benefits for couriers
Net-savvy white van men are already using Stuff2Send to connect with packages and parcels, boosting income. Mick Davidson of Carrick Couriers was one of the first. “Stuff2Send put me in touch with a customer 400 miles away who I wouldn't otherwise have known about,” he said. “We both gained from the service.”
Benefits for the environment
Every vehicle journey shared with a parcel or package is one less car or van on the road. That means less CO2 and other pollutants in the environment – and less congestion. Stuff2Send also cuts down on unnecessary packaging and waste.
Smashing new plate bargains
There’s never been a better time to buy a new car, says Which? Car in response to new car sales figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders today.
Sales of new cars were down 21.9%* in February compared to last year, but new registration plates mean that car sales are usually much stronger in March. This year, car buyers’ money will go further than ever as new cars are being sold at substantial discount - and pre-registered** models are even cheaper.
Here are a few of the great deals Which? Car has spotted this week from well established online car brokers - but there’s every chance local main dealers will offer similar, or even better, discounts if you haggle.
“March isn’t usually the time to get a great new car deal, but this year everything’s up for grabs - savvy buyers could find themselves driving off with a bargain ‘09’-plate car if they look in the right places.”
Sales of new cars were down 21.9%* in February compared to last year, but new registration plates mean that car sales are usually much stronger in March. This year, car buyers’ money will go further than ever as new cars are being sold at substantial discount - and pre-registered** models are even cheaper.
Here are a few of the great deals Which? Car has spotted this week from well established online car brokers - but there’s every chance local main dealers will offer similar, or even better, discounts if you haggle.
- The Ford Fiesta is the UK’s bestselling car at present, but Broadspeed is selling the 1.25 5dr Zetec model on an ‘09’-plate for £10,371 (list price: £11,995). Buying the same car pre-registered costs even less: £9,651.
- The new VW Golf may have only gone on sale in January, but already it’s possible to save more than £2,100 on the sporty 2.0 diesel GT 5dr - £17,649 at Drivethedeal, instead of a list price of £19,814.
- The Citroen Xsara Picasso 1.6 HDi Desire goes for £12,770 on an ‘09’-plate at Broadspeed, or as little as £10,032 for those buying it pre-registered. List price for this model is £16,995 - so you can save nearly £7,000.
- Save around £11,000 on a luxurious Jaguar XJ saloon with the relatively economical 2.7 diesel engine. Drivethedeal is selling new, ‘09’-reg cars for £33,507, instead of a list price of £44,598.
“March isn’t usually the time to get a great new car deal, but this year everything’s up for grabs - savvy buyers could find themselves driving off with a bargain ‘09’-plate car if they look in the right places.”
FAQs
When it comes to shopping for a new car, there are some common questions that crop up consistently among our readers. Here are our pick of the questions and their solutions.
- How do I know if it’s the right time to buy a new car?
There are a lot of factors to weigh up before you enter the car buying process. It is likely to be your largest expense after buying a home so think carefully about whether your purchase is necessary. If it is, then thoroughly research the vehicle of your choice and follow the steps in the earlier section of this guide to make sure you get a good deal. Remember to think about what you can afford – and this means looking beyond the price tag and considering running costs too. Also look at your credit rating and consider building your credit if necessary before you buy.
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying a new car?
Buying a new car is certainly exciting and provides a level of social status. As you are buying new, you can be confident about the vehicle’s history – you know it has not been stolen or involved in an accident as it could have been if it were a used car. You should receive a warranty, often up to three years, which provides reassurance in case of a breakdown and it’s possible to save money by offering your old car as a trade-in. On the downside, car prices in the UK are among the highest in Europe and the value of cars does depreciate rapidly – typically a car will be worth less than 50% of its original value after three years.
- How can I save money on a new car?
This has been covered in depth in part two of this guide, but the most important factor is to do your research and be well-prepared for your purchase. Use the internet as a tool to educate yourself on the type of car you want, its specification and a fair price.
- Is buying online really a better option?
There are advantages and disadvantages to buying online. However, buying online is certainly a CHEAPER option. Searching for deals on the internet through websites such as SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk can save you a significant amount of money and you have the convenience of never having to leave your computer, or deal with an unrelenting salesman. On the downside you cannot test-drive a car you buy online – but you can negate this issue by heading to a local showroom and taking a car out for a drive to see how it runs and then returning to your computer to make a purchase.
- When is the best time to buy a new car?
March and September are when new registrations are issued and as such these are the worst times to buy a new car if you want to make savings as they are the busiest times for dealers. To capitalise on rebates, incentives and special discounts try shopping in August and February (i.e. the months immediately before new registrations are introduced) as manufacturers are likely to be eager to sell excessive stock and therefore offer rebates to dealers. Additionally, look for cheap new cars in December as the market generally slows down while people concentrate on buying for Christmas. If you don’t have time to wait for one of those months, then at least hold off until the end of each month where possible – dealers may need to hit monthly targets and be willing to drop their prices to reach those goals.
- Should I go for a diesel or a petrol engine?
Diesel fuel is usually more expensive and not very environmentally friendly. However, fuel economy on diesel engines is excellent and they are generally more reliable. So this is all about personal choice.
- Am I better off with a new car loan or a lease?
This all depends on you as an individual. If you want to own a car, have a flexible lifestyle, don’t mind slightly higher monthly payments and can make repayments quickly, go for a car loan. If you want to change your car every few years and have a static lifestyle so you know you will be able to stick to the mileage limit, consider a lease.
- Should I offer my old car as a trade-in?
Putting a trade-in or a down-payment towards your new car will help you reduce your monthly payments. However, are you getting a fair price for your trade-in? Search around online to evaluate what similar models are being sold for and don’t allow yourself to be short-changed. You can always sell your car privately.
- Can I trade in a car I still owe money on?
Yes, but you must be careful. Make sure you have a written agreement from the dealer that they will make the payment on your old car in full by the necessary date so you are not stung with late payment charges.
- What should I look for in the small print?
Make sure you read the small print thoroughly. Look to see if there are any limits to the special offers you might have been granted. For example, if you have been offered free car insurance as part of the deal, are there any age restrictions and is the cover up to the standard you require?
- How do I cope with persistent car salesmen?
Remember that the salesmen’s aim is to sell the car at the highest possible price so he or she earns more commission. That’s their job – so be polite! However, take control of the situation by doing your research and showing that you are an educated buyer who won’t be short-changed. Finally, remember that you can avoid all the showroom hassle by shopping for a new car online.
A helpful glossary - jargon buster
You’re sure to encounter plenty of jargon when you are attempting to buy a new car. Failing to understand these terms could mean that you sign for something you don’t really want, which in turn could bump up your payments. So make sure you know the key terms by reading this glossary.
APR – The annual percentage rate that you will pay on a new car loan – the lower the APR, the more money you will save.
BHP – Brake horse power. Used to indicate the amount of power an engine can produce at a certain speed.
Clocking – When the mileage is adjusted to increase the value of the vehicle. This can be difficult to spot when you buy a new car, but be sure to look out for it.
Depreciation – How rapidly a car loses its value. Most cars will lose at least 50% of their original value after three years.
Down-payment – This is the money you pay initially to reduce the amount you have to pay interest on, therefore cutting your monthly payments.
DVLA – The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency where you must record all changes of vehicle ownership in the UK.
EuroNCAP – Standing for the European New Car Assessment Programme which tests the safety of each model of vehicle - the higher the rating, the safer the car with five stars being the maximum score.
ESR – Meaning electric sunroof – operated with a simple push of a button instead of with a winding mechanism.
FSH – Full service history - this is the complete service record of the car you are buying but obviously this is less relevant with new cars.
GPS – Meaning global positioning satellite, this is used to help you navigate your journey.
Grey import – Cars are often sold cheaper in mainland Europe than they are in the UK. As a result it is not uncommon for dealers to ship vehicles in from other countries without the permission of the manufacturer – these are known as ‘grey imports’.
Hybrid cars – An increasingly popular type of vehicle among the environmentally conscious, a hybrid car uses an electric motor and an engine which reduces Carbon Dioxide emissions and makes the vehicles more fuel efficient. Hybrid cars are among the hottest-selling vehicles in the world and include the likes of the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic.
ICE – Standing for ‘in car entertainment’ this refers to aspects such as CD players, DVD players, etc.
Kit car – Refers to a vehicle that has been put together privately from a collection of parts.
Lemon – A car with a poor service history that might even be dangerous to drive.
MOT – The Ministry of Transport has an annual test which all cars in the UK must pass to prove they are roadworthy - driving a vehicle that hasn’t passed this test is illegal.
MPG – When buying a new car it is important to look beyond the price tag of the vehicle and consider how much you will pay on the car in the long-term. One factor to consider are the fuel costs which is indicated by the number of miles per gallon (mpg) the car can manage. Miles per gallon are calculated in idyllic conditions on a test track, and as such you are unlikely to replicate the MPG written on the vehicle. Nevertheless, they act as a good indication of how regularly you will have to fill up your tank.
PCP – Personal contract purchase is effectively the same as car leasing but gives you the option to buy the car at the end of the leasing period.
PLP – A personal leasing plan in which you pay the car finance company monthly instalments based on the value of the vehicle when you start your contract and its worth at the end of the contract period, after depreciation.
Residual value – How much the car is worth at the end of the leasing period, i.e. once depreciation is considered.
Ringer – A car that has been stolen or had its identity changed.
Sat Nav – An abbreviated version of ‘satellite navigation’ – a system used to help you navigate your journey.
T&T – This stands for tax and MOT and means that the car has passed the Department of Transport’s MOT test and has road tax.
V5 – Make sure that any car you buy comes with a V5 – this is its logbook used for registration purposes.
VIN – Vehicle Identification Number, a 17 digit number that should be found on the metal plate in the engine bay of a car. This is unique to every car and contains information on when and where it was built. This number should always be found in the ‘V5’.
Write-off – Commonly used to refer to a vehicle that has been damaged or stolen. If you are involved in an accident your insurance company could choose to pay an agreed value rather than pay for repairs to the vehicle because the damage is too extensive.
ZEV – Refers to a zero emissions vehicle, such as an electric car, which does not produce any harmful emissions that could negatively impact the environment.
Price rises should fund MOT reminders says IAM
The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) wants MOT fee increases to be used to fund reminders to motorists when their MOT is due. The call comes as MOT fees are set to increase for the fifth year running.
Since 2004 the cost of an MOT has gone up by one third leaving motorists to fork out an extra £13.25 for no obvious improvement in service. The new MOT fees are currently out for consultation from VOSA, the Government’s vehicle testing agency.
IAM Director of Policy and Research, Neil Greig, said: “Motorists have faced constant test fee increases for the past five years, each one above inflation, but they have not seen much improvement in the service.
“VOSA could add value for money by sending out reminders to motorists when their MOT is due, just as the DVLA do with car tax and insurance companies do for insurance. This would cut down on the number motorists who forget that their MOT has expired and continue to use the roads in a technically illegal and potentially unsafe vehicle.”
An IAM survey in 2007 found that 32 per cent of motorists had forgotten when their MOT was due and continued to drive – and break the law – without realising it. It also found 71 per cent think it would be a good idea for garages to send out reminders.
The MOT system is now fully computerised and linked to other databases but there are still no plans to issue motorists with simple reminders that their MOT is due.
Since 2004 the cost of an MOT has gone up by one third leaving motorists to fork out an extra £13.25 for no obvious improvement in service. The new MOT fees are currently out for consultation from VOSA, the Government’s vehicle testing agency.
IAM Director of Policy and Research, Neil Greig, said: “Motorists have faced constant test fee increases for the past five years, each one above inflation, but they have not seen much improvement in the service.
“VOSA could add value for money by sending out reminders to motorists when their MOT is due, just as the DVLA do with car tax and insurance companies do for insurance. This would cut down on the number motorists who forget that their MOT has expired and continue to use the roads in a technically illegal and potentially unsafe vehicle.”
An IAM survey in 2007 found that 32 per cent of motorists had forgotten when their MOT was due and continued to drive – and break the law – without realising it. It also found 71 per cent think it would be a good idea for garages to send out reminders.
The MOT system is now fully computerised and linked to other databases but there are still no plans to issue motorists with simple reminders that their MOT is due.
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