Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the general election in Could, making promises on the NHS, the economy and the household.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even even though the average vehicle owner pays a lot more than their fair share of taxes.

In fact, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes final monetary year, almost 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other autos spend £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That is more than UK businesses spend in business rates (£26.8 billion) and nearly the exact same quantity as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a further £6.1 billion in car excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and auto sales, business auto tax and insurance coverage premium tax.

Let’s not neglect the numerous hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor traffic and parking infringements. They should add up to quite a fairly penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d feel the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to put up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They often have to drive in the dark, also, with many roads now blacked out after midnight.

In a recent AA survey, the state of the roads in general – and potholes in certain – came out as the number one particular concern for drivers.

It is no wonder. Experts reckon potholes lead to up to 1 in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road safety, particularly if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Expense analysis

The expense of motoring is also high on the list of worries.

Petrol costs may have come down in current months, but many motorists are suspicious of the massive oil firms and would like to see higher transparency more than rates at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and believe tolls should be dropped from key river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving bad

Then there’s poor driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving standards.

They would therefore like to see far more cops in cars to target harmful behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a call for better road security education inside the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Nicely, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to power in 1997.

Far more recently, the AA effectively campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we comprehend that elections are not won or lost on motoring troubles alone. Health, education and the economy tend to sway the benefits.

“However, transport and motoring are key to economic development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Condition: remove potholes, ring-fence funding, enhance parking

• Congestion: take away bottlenecks, increase bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: take away harmful junctions, enhance education

• Co-operation: take away conflict, enhance driver behavior

• Expense: take away unfair tolls, increase fuel cost transparency.

Drivers can show their support on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also question prospective parliamentary candidates on their plans to assist drivers, assuming they handle to stay away from the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed beneath CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the common election in Might, generating promises on the NHS, the economy and the household.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even even though the average automobile owner pays more than their fair share of taxes.

In reality, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes final financial year, nearly 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other vehicles pay £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That’s much more than UK firms spend in organization prices (£26.8 billion) and practically the exact same amount as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a further £6.1 billion in car excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and car sales, company car tax and insurance coverage premium tax.

Let’s not overlook the numerous hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor traffic and parking infringements. They must add up to very a quite penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d think the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to put up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They frequently have to drive in the dark, too, with several roads now blacked out soon after midnight.

In a current AA survey, the state of the roads in basic – and potholes in specific – came out as the number one particular concern for drivers.

It’s no wonder. Professionals reckon potholes lead to up to one particular in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road safety, particularly if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Expense evaluation

The expense of motoring is also high on the list of worries.

Petrol costs may possibly have come down in current months, but many motorists are suspicious of the massive oil businesses and would like to see greater transparency more than prices at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and think tolls need to be dropped from key river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving undesirable

Then there’s negative driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving requirements.

They would therefore like to see much more cops in automobiles to target harmful behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a contact for greater road safety education within the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Nicely, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to energy in 1997.

Far more not too long ago, the AA effectively campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we comprehend that elections are not won or lost on motoring concerns alone. Wellness, education and the economy tend to sway the benefits.

“However, transport and motoring are crucial to economic development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Condition: get rid of potholes, ring-fence funding, increase parking

• Congestion: take away bottlenecks, enhance bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: get rid of unsafe junctions, boost education

• Co-operation: take away conflict, boost driver behavior

• Price: remove unfair tolls, increase fuel value transparency.

Drivers can show their support on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also question potential parliamentary candidates on their plans to help drivers, assuming they handle to steer clear of the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Will motoring matters affect how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the general election in May, making promises on the NHS, the economy and the family.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even though the average car owner pays more than their fair share of taxes.

In fact, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes last financial year, almost 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other vehicles pay £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That’s more than UK companies pay in business rates (£26.8 billion) and almost the same amount as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a further £6.1 billion in vehicle excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and car sales, company car tax and insurance premium tax.

Let’s not forget the countless hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor traffic and parking infringements. They must add up to quite a pretty penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d think the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to put up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They often have to drive in the dark, too, with many roads now blacked out after midnight.

In a recent AA survey, the state of the roads in general – and potholes in particular – came out as the number one concern for drivers.

It’s no wonder. Experts reckon potholes cause up to one in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road safety, particularly if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Cost analysis

The cost of motoring is also high on the list of worries.

Petrol prices might have come down in recent months, but many motorists are suspicious of the big oil companies and would like to see greater transparency over prices at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and believe tolls should be dropped from key river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving bad

Then there’s bad driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving standards.

They would therefore like to see more cops in cars to target dangerous behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a call for better road safety education within the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Well, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to power in 1997.

More recently, the AA successfully campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we understand that elections are not won or lost on motoring issues alone. Health, education and the economy tend to sway the results.

“However, transport and motoring are key to economic growth in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Condition: remove potholes, ring-fence funding, improve parking

• Congestion: remove bottlenecks, improve bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: remove dangerous junctions, improve education

• Co-operation: remove conflict, improve driver behavior

• Cost: remove unfair tolls, improve fuel price transparency.

Drivers can show their support on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also question prospective parliamentary candidates on their plans to help drivers, assuming they manage to avoid the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 

Will motoring matters affect how you vote?

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the general election in May, generating promises on the NHS, the economy and the household.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even although the average vehicle owner pays much more than their fair share of taxes.

In fact, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes last financial year, virtually 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other automobiles pay £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That is more than UK businesses spend in enterprise prices (£26.8 billion) and virtually the same amount as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a further £6.1 billion in car excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and car sales, firm vehicle tax and insurance coverage premium tax.

Let’s not forget the countless hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor traffic and parking infringements. They must add up to very a quite penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d believe the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to place up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They often have to drive in the dark, also, with a lot of roads now blacked out soon after midnight.

In a recent AA survey, the state of the roads in general – and potholes in certain – came out as the number one particular concern for drivers.

It’s no wonder. Experts reckon potholes lead to up to one particular in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road safety, particularly if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Cost analysis

The expense of motoring is also higher on the list of worries.

Petrol prices may well have come down in recent months, but a lot of motorists are suspicious of the massive oil businesses and would like to see higher transparency over rates at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and think tolls must be dropped from important river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving undesirable

Then there’s negative driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving standards.

They would consequently like to see much more cops in automobiles to target unsafe behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a get in touch with for better road safety education inside the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Nicely, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to power in 1997.

More lately, the AA successfully campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we comprehend that elections are not won or lost on motoring concerns alone. Well being, education and the economy tend to sway the benefits.

“However, transport and motoring are key to economic development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Situation: get rid of potholes, ring-fence funding, enhance parking

• Congestion: remove bottlenecks, improve bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: remove unsafe junctions, improve education

• Co-operation: eliminate conflict, improve driver behavior

• Expense: remove unfair tolls, enhance fuel cost transparency.

Drivers can show their support on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also query potential parliamentary candidates on their plans to help drivers, assuming they manage to steer clear of the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the common election in May possibly, making promises on the NHS, the economy and the loved ones.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even though the average vehicle owner pays far more than their fair share of taxes.

In reality, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes final financial year, nearly 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other cars spend £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That’s a lot more than UK firms spend in organization prices (£26.8 billion) and practically the same quantity as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a additional £6.1 billion in vehicle excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and car sales, business automobile tax and insurance coverage premium tax.

Let’s not overlook the numerous hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor traffic and parking infringements. They should add up to quite a quite penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d feel the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some assistance in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to place up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They frequently have to drive in the dark, also, with many roads now blacked out soon after midnight.

In a current AA survey, the state of the roads in common – and potholes in particular – came out as the quantity one concern for drivers.

It is no wonder. Professionals reckon potholes result in up to a single in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road safety, specifically if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Price analysis

The price of motoring is also higher on the list of worries.

Petrol costs may possibly have come down in current months, but many motorists are suspicious of the massive oil organizations and would like to see greater transparency more than prices at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and believe tolls must be dropped from key river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving poor

Then there’s poor driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving standards.

They would for that reason like to see much more cops in automobiles to target dangerous behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a call for much better road safety education within the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Properly, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to power in 1997.

Far more not too long ago, the AA successfully campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we understand that elections are not won or lost on motoring concerns alone. Well being, education and the economy tend to sway the outcomes.

“However, transport and motoring are crucial to financial development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Situation: take away potholes, ring-fence funding, improve parking

• Congestion: get rid of bottlenecks, boost bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: get rid of unsafe junctions, increase education

• Co-operation: remove conflict, increase driver behavior

• Cost: eliminate unfair tolls, boost fuel cost transparency.

Drivers can show their help on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also question potential parliamentary candidates on their plans to assist drivers, assuming they handle to steer clear of the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters impact how you vote?

Will motoring matters affect how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the common election in Might, generating promises on the NHS, the economy and the family.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even although the typical automobile owner pays much more than their fair share of taxes.

In truth, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes last monetary year, practically 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other automobiles spend £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That is far more than UK organizations pay in business rates (£26.8 billion) and virtually the exact same amount as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a additional £6.1 billion in automobile excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and auto sales, firm auto tax and insurance coverage premium tax.

Let’s not neglect the numerous hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor targeted traffic and parking infringements. They need to add up to fairly a pretty penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d believe the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to put up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They typically have to drive in the dark, too, with many roads now blacked out right after midnight.

In a recent AA survey, the state of the roads in general – and potholes in certain – came out as the quantity 1 concern for drivers.

It is no wonder. Authorities reckon potholes trigger up to one particular in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road security, specifically if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Expense evaluation

The cost of motoring is also high on the list of worries.

Petrol prices may well have come down in current months, but several motorists are suspicious of the large oil businesses and would like to see greater transparency more than prices at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and think tolls should be dropped from important river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving negative

Then there’s poor driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving requirements.

They would consequently like to see a lot more cops in vehicles to target dangerous behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a get in touch with for much better road safety education inside the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Effectively, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to energy in 1997.

More lately, the AA effectively campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we understand that elections are not won or lost on motoring problems alone. Overall health, education and the economy have a tendency to sway the benefits.

“However, transport and motoring are crucial to economic development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Condition: take away potholes, ring-fence funding, boost parking

• Congestion: eliminate bottlenecks, enhance bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: take away unsafe junctions, enhance education

• Co-operation: get rid of conflict, improve driver behavior

• Expense: get rid of unfair tolls, increase fuel price transparency.

Drivers can show their assistance on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also query prospective parliamentary candidates on their plans to assist drivers, assuming they handle to keep away from the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters affect how you vote?

Will motoring matters influence how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the common election in Could, generating promises on the NHS, the economy and the family members.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician appears keen to woo the motorist vote, even although the typical automobile owner pays more than their fair share of taxes.

In fact, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes final financial year, virtually 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other cars spend £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That’s more than UK companies pay in company rates (£26.8 billion) and practically the very same amount as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a further £6.1 billion in vehicle excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and auto sales, organization auto tax and insurance coverage premium tax.

Let’s not forget the numerous hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor visitors and parking infringements. They have to add up to quite a pretty penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d think the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to put up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They usually have to drive in the dark, as well, with many roads now blacked out right after midnight.

In a recent AA survey, the state of the roads in basic – and potholes in distinct – came out as the number 1 concern for drivers.

It is no wonder. Professionals reckon potholes trigger up to one particular in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road safety, especially if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Price analysis

The price of motoring is also higher on the list of worries.

Petrol rates may well have come down in recent months, but numerous motorists are suspicious of the big oil organizations and would like to see higher transparency over costs at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and believe tolls should be dropped from essential river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving negative

Then there’s undesirable driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving requirements.

They would as a result like to see much more cops in cars to target unsafe behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a contact for better road safety education within the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Well, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to power in 1997.

A lot more lately, the AA successfully campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we comprehend that elections are not won or lost on motoring troubles alone. Health, education and the economy have a tendency to sway the results.

“However, transport and motoring are key to economic development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Condition: get rid of potholes, ring-fence funding, enhance parking

• Congestion: eliminate bottlenecks, enhance bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: get rid of hazardous junctions, boost education

• Co-operation: eliminate conflict, boost driver behavior

• Price: take away unfair tolls, increase fuel price tag transparency.

Drivers can show their help on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also query prospective parliamentary candidates on their plans to aid drivers, assuming they handle to keep away from the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters influence how you vote?

Will motoring matters have an effect on how you vote?

Politicians from all parties have hit the campaign trail ahead of the general election in Might, producing promises on the NHS, the economy and the household.

But what about the motorist?

Sadly, no politician seems keen to woo the motorist vote, even even though the average auto owner pays much more than their fair share of taxes.

In reality, of the £582.6 billion raised in UK taxes last economic year, nearly 10% came from motorists.

Duty calls

UK voters with cars and other cars pay £26.9 billion in fuel duty alone, according to the AA.

That’s a lot more than UK companies pay in company prices (£26.8 billion) and practically the exact same amount as the government collects in council tax (£27.5 billion).

Motorists stump up a additional £6.1 billion in car excise duties, and £25 billion from VAT on fuel and car sales, firm auto tax and insurance premium tax.

Let’s not neglect the countless hidden ‘taxes’, such as penalties for minor visitors and parking infringements. They need to add up to very a fairly penny.

Exchequer mate

You’d feel the generous contribution to the chancellor’s coffers would win motorists some support in Westminster.

But no. Today’s drivers have to place up with potholes, puddles and parking permits. They typically have to drive in the dark, also, with several roads now blacked out soon after midnight.

In a recent AA survey, the state of the roads in basic – and potholes in particular – came out as the quantity 1 concern for drivers.

It’s no wonder. Specialists reckon potholes lead to up to one particular in 10 mechanical failures, costing motorists an estimated £730 million a year.

Potholes and poorly maintained roads are also a threat to road security, particularly if you ride on 2 wheels rather than 4.

Price evaluation

The cost of motoring is also higher on the list of worries.

Petrol costs might have come down in current months, but numerous motorists are suspicious of the huge oil organizations and would like to see greater transparency more than rates at the pump.

The abolition of tolls in England and Wales would also be a vote winner.

Edmund King, president of the AA, says: “We will continue to oppose tolls and think tolls need to be dropped from essential river crossings, as they are in Scotland.”

Driving poor

Then there’s undesirable driving. Motorists are increasingly aggravated by poor driving standards.

They would consequently like to see a lot more cops in automobiles to target unsafe behaviour such as tailgating and use of mobiles at the wheel.

There is also a call for better road safety education within the national curriculum from an early age.

But do Britain’s 35 million motorists have any political influence? Well, votes from Mondeo man helped to propel Tony Blair to energy in 1997.

A lot more lately, the AA effectively campaigned to outlaw rogue wheel clamping on private land.

King’s speech

But the AA is realistic. King says: “The AA is apolitical and we comprehend that elections are not won or lost on motoring issues alone. Wellness, education and the economy have a tendency to sway the results.

“However, transport and motoring are important to financial development in the UK and shouldn’t be side-lined.”

The AA is calling on political parties to commit to 5 Cs:

• Situation: eliminate potholes, ring-fence funding, enhance parking

• Congestion: remove bottlenecks, boost bypasses and capacity

• Casualties: eliminate unsafe junctions, improve education

• Co-operation: get rid of conflict, enhance driver behavior

• Expense: get rid of unfair tolls, improve fuel price transparency.

Drivers can show their assistance on twitter with #Vote4BetterRoads.

They can also query potential parliamentary candidates on their plans to aid drivers, assuming they manage to steer clear of the potholes on the campaign trail.

 Image: Voting by redjar is licensed under CC BY-SA 2. 

Will motoring matters have an effect on how you vote?

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

One in every 3 South African owners rated price as the most important purchase decision influencer, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos. Price is followed by brand reputation, with roughly 16% of car owners placing great importance on the latter aspect.

This indicates that although price matters; vehicle quality, pre- and post-sales service (which contribute to brand reputation) are a key consideration for local automotive purchases; including lower-costing, ‘entry level’ buys. Adding to this, a review of official sales figures for the period October 2013 to March 2014 revealed that the more established, entry level automotive brands grew market share – of between 1% and 6%.  This is in contrast with lower-priced, new entrant brands which recorded losses in market share ranging between -1% and -4% during the same period.

It therefore appears that even for low cost vehicles, South African consumers prefer to buy a car with ‘good return’ in terms of durability, dependability and trade-in value. In some cases, opting for the lower priced, new entrant brand can come with draw backs, such as limited service and warranty plans. A few of the new entrants, low cost automotive suppliers offer 3 year / 45,000 km service plans as compared with the more established automotive brands that offer 5 year / 100,000 km service plans for new vehicle purchases ( and this includes their entry level models). Some of the new, lower-priced entrants are also much lighter on innovation and do not have boot lights, electric windows or radio.

According to Klaus Paur, Head of Ipsos’ Global Automotive, “consumers within recession-plagued and emerging markets look for the famous ‘value-for-money’ offer by demanding practical functionality while skipping on non-essential gadgets”.  To avoid negative image effects caused by these stripped down versions, some vehicle makers have an interest to protect the core marque, and launch their low cost offering under a different (budget) brand”

In South Africa, it would be a wise approach to follow for those leading automotive brands suffering a decline in sales volumes in their new entrant brands during the October 2013 to March 2014 period. With consumers prioritising quality, leading global suppliers have adopted an approach that has seen them manufacture market-entry level models that carry the car maker’s brand and are produced at quality standards similar to their higher level model ranges. Based on experiences in the developed world and other developing markets, the more established automotive suppliers are convinced that the adoption of this strategy is expected to deliver success within entry-level markets where price and brand reputation are the most important purchase decision influencers.

By James Maposa and Klaus Paur

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks third in the global research industry.

With offices in 86 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across 6 research specializations: advertising, customer loyalty, marketing, media, public affairs research, and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,712,4 million (2 274 M$ ) in 2013.

Visit www.ipsos.co.za to learn more about Ipsos’ offerings and capabilities.

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

One in every 3 South African owners rated price as the most important purchase decision influencer, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos. Price is followed by brand reputation, with roughly 16% of car owners placing great importance on the latter aspect.

This indicates that although price matters; vehicle quality, pre- and post-sales service (which contribute to brand reputation) are a key consideration for local automotive purchases; including lower-costing, ‘entry level’ buys. Adding to this, a review of official sales figures for the period October 2013 to March 2014 revealed that the more established, entry level automotive brands grew market share – of between 1% and 6%.  This is in contrast with lower-priced, new entrant brands which recorded losses in market share ranging between -1% and -4% during the same period.

It therefore appears that even for low cost vehicles, South African consumers prefer to buy a car with ‘good return’ in terms of durability, dependability and trade-in value. In some cases, opting for the lower priced, new entrant brand can come with draw backs, such as limited service and warranty plans. A few of the new entrants, low cost automotive suppliers offer 3 year / 45,000 km service plans as compared with the more established automotive brands that offer 5 year / 100,000 km service plans for new vehicle purchases ( and this includes their entry level models). Some of the new, lower-priced entrants are also much lighter on innovation and do not have boot lights, electric windows or radio.

According to Klaus Paur, Head of Ipsos’ Global Automotive, “consumers within recession-plagued and emerging markets look for the famous ‘value-for-money’ offer by demanding practical functionality while skipping on non-essential gadgets”.  To avoid negative image effects caused by these stripped down versions, some vehicle makers have an interest to protect the core marque, and launch their low cost offering under a different (budget) brand”

In South Africa, it would be a wise approach to follow for those leading automotive brands suffering a decline in sales volumes in their new entrant brands during the October 2013 to March 2014 period. With consumers prioritising quality, leading global suppliers have adopted an approach that has seen them manufacture market-entry level models that carry the car maker’s brand and are produced at quality standards similar to their higher level model ranges. Based on experiences in the developed world and other developing markets, the more established automotive suppliers are convinced that the adoption of this strategy is expected to deliver success within entry-level markets where price and brand reputation are the most important purchase decision influencers.

By James Maposa and Klaus Paur

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks third in the global research industry.

With offices in 86 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across 6 research specializations: advertising, customer loyalty, marketing, media, public affairs research, and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,712,4 million (2 274 M$ ) in 2013.

Visit www.ipsos.co.za to learn more about Ipsos’ offerings and capabilities.

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

One in every 3 South African owners rated price as the most important purchase decision influencer, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos. Price is followed by brand reputation, with roughly 16% of car owners placing great importance on the latter aspect.

This indicates that although price matters; vehicle quality, pre- and post-sales service (which contribute to brand reputation) are a key consideration for local automotive purchases; including lower-costing, ‘entry level’ buys. Adding to this, a review of official sales figures for the period October 2013 to March 2014 revealed that the more established, entry level automotive brands grew market share – of between 1% and 6%.  This is in contrast with lower-priced, new entrant brands which recorded losses in market share ranging between -1% and -4% during the same period.

It therefore appears that even for low cost vehicles, South African consumers prefer to buy a car with ‘good return’ in terms of durability, dependability and trade-in value. In some cases, opting for the lower priced, new entrant brand can come with draw backs, such as limited service and warranty plans. A few of the new entrants, low cost automotive suppliers offer 3 year / 45,000 km service plans as compared with the more established automotive brands that offer 5 year / 100,000 km service plans for new vehicle purchases ( and this includes their entry level models). Some of the new, lower-priced entrants are also much lighter on innovation and do not have boot lights, electric windows or radio.

According to Klaus Paur, Head of Ipsos’ Global Automotive, “consumers within recession-plagued and emerging markets look for the famous ‘value-for-money’ offer by demanding practical functionality while skipping on non-essential gadgets”.  To avoid negative image effects caused by these stripped down versions, some vehicle makers have an interest to protect the core marque, and launch their low cost offering under a different (budget) brand”

In South Africa, it would be a wise approach to follow for those leading automotive brands suffering a decline in sales volumes in their new entrant brands during the October 2013 to March 2014 period. With consumers prioritising quality, leading global suppliers have adopted an approach that has seen them manufacture market-entry level models that carry the car maker’s brand and are produced at quality standards similar to their higher level model ranges. Based on experiences in the developed world and other developing markets, the more established automotive suppliers are convinced that the adoption of this strategy is expected to deliver success within entry-level markets where price and brand reputation are the most important purchase decision influencers.

By James Maposa and Klaus Paur

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks third in the global research industry.

With offices in 86 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across 6 research specializations: advertising, customer loyalty, marketing, media, public affairs research, and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,712,4 million (2 274 M$ ) in 2013.

Visit www.ipsos.co.za to learn more about Ipsos’ offerings and capabilities.

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

One in every 3 South African owners rated price as the most important purchase decision influencer, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos. Price is followed by brand reputation, with roughly 16% of car owners placing great importance on the latter aspect.

This indicates that although price matters; vehicle quality, pre- and post-sales service (which contribute to brand reputation) are a key consideration for local automotive purchases; including lower-costing, ‘entry level’ buys. Adding to this, a review of official sales figures for the period October 2013 to March 2014 revealed that the more established, entry level automotive brands grew market share – of between 1% and 6%.  This is in contrast with lower-priced, new entrant brands which recorded losses in market share ranging between -1% and -4% during the same period.

It therefore appears that even for low cost vehicles, South African consumers prefer to buy a car with ‘good return’ in terms of durability, dependability and trade-in value. In some cases, opting for the lower priced, new entrant brand can come with draw backs, such as limited service and warranty plans. A few of the new entrants, low cost automotive suppliers offer 3 year / 45,000 km service plans as compared with the more established automotive brands that offer 5 year / 100,000 km service plans for new vehicle purchases ( and this includes their entry level models). Some of the new, lower-priced entrants are also much lighter on innovation and do not have boot lights, electric windows or radio.

According to Klaus Paur, Head of Ipsos’ Global Automotive, “consumers within recession-plagued and emerging markets look for the famous ‘value-for-money’ offer by demanding practical functionality while skipping on non-essential gadgets”.  To avoid negative image effects caused by these stripped down versions, some vehicle makers have an interest to protect the core marque, and launch their low cost offering under a different (budget) brand”

In South Africa, it would be a wise approach to follow for those leading automotive brands suffering a decline in sales volumes in their new entrant brands during the October 2013 to March 2014 period. With consumers prioritising quality, leading global suppliers have adopted an approach that has seen them manufacture market-entry level models that carry the car maker’s brand and are produced at quality standards similar to their higher level model ranges. Based on experiences in the developed world and other developing markets, the more established automotive suppliers are convinced that the adoption of this strategy is expected to deliver success within entry-level markets where price and brand reputation are the most important purchase decision influencers.

By James Maposa and Klaus Paur

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks third in the global research industry.

With offices in 86 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across 6 research specializations: advertising, customer loyalty, marketing, media, public affairs research, and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,712,4 million (2 274 M$ ) in 2013.

Visit www.ipsos.co.za to learn more about Ipsos’ offerings and capabilities.

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

One in every 3 South African owners rated price as the most important purchase decision influencer, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos. Price is followed by brand reputation, with roughly 16% of car owners placing great importance on the latter aspect.

This indicates that although price matters; vehicle quality, pre- and post-sales service (which contribute to brand reputation) are a key consideration for local automotive purchases; including lower-costing, ‘entry level’ buys. Adding to this, a review of official sales figures for the period October 2013 to March 2014 revealed that the more established, entry level automotive brands grew market share – of between 1% and 6%.  This is in contrast with lower-priced, new entrant brands which recorded losses in market share ranging between -1% and -4% during the same period.

It therefore appears that even for low cost vehicles, South African consumers prefer to buy a car with ‘good return’ in terms of durability, dependability and trade-in value. In some cases, opting for the lower priced, new entrant brand can come with draw backs, such as limited service and warranty plans. A few of the new entrants, low cost automotive suppliers offer 3 year / 45,000 km service plans as compared with the more established automotive brands that offer 5 year / 100,000 km service plans for new vehicle purchases ( and this includes their entry level models). Some of the new, lower-priced entrants are also much lighter on innovation and do not have boot lights, electric windows or radio.

According to Klaus Paur, Head of Ipsos’ Global Automotive, “consumers within recession-plagued and emerging markets look for the famous ‘value-for-money’ offer by demanding practical functionality while skipping on non-essential gadgets”.  To avoid negative image effects caused by these stripped down versions, some vehicle makers have an interest to protect the core marque, and launch their low cost offering under a different (budget) brand”

In South Africa, it would be a wise approach to follow for those leading automotive brands suffering a decline in sales volumes in their new entrant brands during the October 2013 to March 2014 period. With consumers prioritising quality, leading global suppliers have adopted an approach that has seen them manufacture market-entry level models that carry the car maker’s brand and are produced at quality standards similar to their higher level model ranges. Based on experiences in the developed world and other developing markets, the more established automotive suppliers are convinced that the adoption of this strategy is expected to deliver success within entry-level markets where price and brand reputation are the most important purchase decision influencers.

By James Maposa and Klaus Paur

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks third in the global research industry.

With offices in 86 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across 6 research specializations: advertising, customer loyalty, marketing, media, public affairs research, and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,712,4 million (2 274 M$ ) in 2013.

Visit www.ipsos.co.za to learn more about Ipsos’ offerings and capabilities.

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases

One in every 3 South African owners rated price as the most important purchase decision influencer, according to a recent study conducted by Ipsos. Price is followed by brand reputation, with roughly 16% of car owners placing great importance on the latter aspect.

This indicates that although price matters; vehicle quality, pre- and post-sales service (which contribute to brand reputation) are a key consideration for local automotive purchases; including lower-costing, ‘entry level’ buys. Adding to this, a review of official sales figures for the period October 2013 to March 2014 revealed that the more established, entry level automotive brands grew market share – of between 1% and 6%.  This is in contrast with lower-priced, new entrant brands which recorded losses in market share ranging between -1% and -4% during the same period.

It therefore appears that even for low cost vehicles, South African consumers prefer to buy a car with ‘good return’ in terms of durability, dependability and trade-in value. In some cases, opting for the lower priced, new entrant brand can come with draw backs, such as limited service and warranty plans. A few of the new entrants, low cost automotive suppliers offer 3 year / 45,000 km service plans as compared with the more established automotive brands that offer 5 year / 100,000 km service plans for new vehicle purchases ( and this includes their entry level models). Some of the new, lower-priced entrants are also much lighter on innovation and do not have boot lights, electric windows or radio.

According to Klaus Paur, Head of Ipsos’ Global Automotive, “consumers within recession-plagued and emerging markets look for the famous ‘value-for-money’ offer by demanding practical functionality while skipping on non-essential gadgets”.  To avoid negative image effects caused by these stripped down versions, some vehicle makers have an interest to protect the core marque, and launch their low cost offering under a different (budget) brand”

In South Africa, it would be a wise approach to follow for those leading automotive brands suffering a decline in sales volumes in their new entrant brands during the October 2013 to March 2014 period. With consumers prioritising quality, leading global suppliers have adopted an approach that has seen them manufacture market-entry level models that carry the car maker’s brand and are produced at quality standards similar to their higher level model ranges. Based on experiences in the developed world and other developing markets, the more established automotive suppliers are convinced that the adoption of this strategy is expected to deliver success within entry-level markets where price and brand reputation are the most important purchase decision influencers.

By James Maposa and Klaus Paur

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

About Ipsos

Ipsos is an independent market research company controlled and managed by research professionals. Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos has grown into a worldwide research group with a strong presence in all key markets. Ipsos ranks third in the global research industry.

With offices in 86 countries, Ipsos delivers insightful expertise across 6 research specializations: advertising, customer loyalty, marketing, media, public affairs research, and survey management.

Ipsos researchers assess market potential and interpret market trends. They develop and build brands. They help clients build long-term relationships with their customers. They test advertising and study audience responses to various media and they measure public opinion around the globe.

Ipsos has been listed on the Paris Stock Exchange since 1999 and generated global revenues of €1,712,4 million (2 274 M$ ) in 2013.

Visit www.ipsos.co.za to learn more about Ipsos’ offerings and capabilities.

Survey finds Although Price Matters, Brand Reputation is Important for Low-Cost Vehicle Purchases