Not All Hybrids Are Created Equal

We're just over a week shy of the official launch event weekend and the Outlander PHEV is shaping up to be everything we hoped, and a whole lot more. Our demonstrator arrived at the end of last week on the back of a transporter and, following the obligatory checks in the workshop and complete clean in our valeting bay, has been booked up solidly for demonstration ever since. 

Considering the figures it claims and the numerous awards it boasts, it comes as no surprise: a tiny 44g/km of Co2 emissions, official miles-per-gallon figures of 148, £0 vehicle excise duty and company car tax of just 5% in year one anyone? It's not just the drivers of company cars that benefit either-  a business purchasing one can write down 100% of the cost of the car against its corporation tax in year 1 (compare this to the traditional 18%).

The PHEV is also capable of more than 30 miles and over 60mph on EV power alone and, at the time of writing, charge points can be fitted completely free-of-charge at customers own homes making them both simple and cost-effective to power.

Since it's recent introduction stamps of approval have been awarded left, right and centre: The "Environment Award" from Fleet World, "Best Alternative Fuel Vehicle) from Diesel Car and the Five Star Award for Safety from the Japan New Car Assessment Programme all came within one month. 

Despite all of the above it still came as a surprise to us when orders for the innovative new vehicle began rolling in thick and fast before purchasers had even driven one! Our launch event will be happening on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th June and details will be released soon. If you'd like to test drive one please just give us a call on 01271 342600, email sales@devonshire-motors.co.uk or visit us on Pottington, Barnstaple. Bookings essential. 

Spark Plugs, Crash and a 2/10ths of a Second Miss Out on a Trophy: Motocross Update.

Following our update at the end of April, we have more news from the Motocross track courtesy of sponsored rider- Mark Osborne. 

Round one got off to a 'testing' start at the track at Littlehempton track for Mark (his words!) with mechanical problems. Just prior to practice his bike was not keen to start and- when it did splutter to life- sounded far from its best. 

A quick lap round the track clearly demonstrated that the problems were far from simple and- when Mark returned to the pits- changing the spark plugs repeatedly in the process, it became apparent that it wasn't going to be an easy fix either. Eventually, the problem was spotted by Mark's Dad (a former Motocross rider himself and a big supporter of Mark), two contacts on the plug cap were cleaned, the bike was put back together and it finally fired up! (Much to their relief I'm sure).
 
Race 1 was eventful with Mark being dragged down from 6th to 32nd place following a crash on a hill top two short laps from the finish which left his handlebars twisted. Race 2 was a little better as he crawled back up to 9th place and the final race saw him pull back one more spot and finish in a very respectable 8th. 


Round 2 found Mark at a new track to him- Moreleigh nr Totnes. The first race was spent largely getting used to the track but he claimed 7th place. The start for the second race was equally as good but, due to the track being watered, a first corner crash held many of the riders up (including Mark). Race 3 was a mixed bag- an excellent start paired with a last minute pass at the finish line left Mark in 9th: missing out on an overall 5th place trophy by just 2/10ths of a second!

Regardless of all of this Mark has clearly set himself up well for the championship. Round 2 saw him shift from 10th to 6th place overall, a manageable 4 points off the top 4 riders and- with the mechanical issues now sorted- he's very much looking forward to the next round at Crediton on 8th June. 

Convertible Buying Tips

As the weather is fast hotting up for Summer we decided that there's never been a better time to put a few bits of advice out there for those looking for a convertible to enjoy in the warmer months. 

All of our vehicles receive a complete vehicle health check by our highly trained technicians and every car sold comes complete with a 12 month warranty for your peace of mind. But for those customers who choose to purchase from somewhere other than a main dealer, here are a few points to watch out for:

• Interior-  Inspect any interior metals for signs of bubbling or rust and check for any odours in the carpet or upholstery- a tell tale sign of leaks!
• Doors and Windows- A vital function on any convertible is making sure doors and windows close and seal correctly, if they don't this could be a potential sign of the vehicle having been in an accident previously.
• Mechanics of the Roof- Test the mechanical and electric integrity of the convertible top- the complex system of brackets and springs and the latching mechanism (does it all close smoothly and lock in place?). If it is a soft top check that the fabric is taut- loose and it will be very noisy at speed. You don't want it too tight though- replacements can be costly.
• Test for leaks!- You're spending your hard-earned money so don't be afraid to test the roof for leaks if you have any concerns- spray a hose over the car to simulate heavy rain.
• Insurance- A factor many people don't consider is insurance- frequently more costly than on a standard car so well worthy checking with your insurance company or using comparison sites to find out the cost before you purchase. 
• Practicality- Some people favour a hard roof over a soft top but just be aware that the mechanics involved usually fit into the boot space which compromises luggage capacity. If it's a second car this is less likely to be a problem but best to try it with the roof down whatever the weather to check it works for you.

The above points are specific to convertibles but there are lists all over the web advising of what to look for when buying any used vehicle. Autotraders' is a fairly proficient one: http://www.autotrader.co.uk/advice/2010/07/buying/inspecting-a-used-car

A Mitsubishi Colt CZC3- on our forecourt in May 2014

Finally, vehicles purchased from a reputable main dealer such as ourselves will be HPI checked prior to being put on sale but if you choose to buy from somewhere less established we'd suggest doing this yourself so you can be sure there is no outstanding finance, the vehicle hasn't been stolen, previously written off or clocked. RAC, AA and Glass' Guide online all offer this service for a small fee.

We hope you enjoy the summer weather and wish you all the very best in your search for the perfect convertible. Do bear in mind that while we often have some convertibles on the forecourt this time of year we may also be able to source a vehicle for you if you have a particular one in mind. It's well worth calling a member of our experienced Sales Team on 01271 342600 or emailing sales@devonshire-motors.co.uk and saving yourself all the steps above in the process!