Three out of four people looking to buy a used car fear they will be ripped off on the forecourt and sold a duff vehicle, according to new poll* of 1,000 motorists.

The survey, carried out by RAC Cars, reveals used car salesmen have failed to shift the dodgy ‘Del Boy’ image, as issues around trust and reliability are top of the list of concerns from people buying a second-hand vehicle.

And, it’s not just car dealers that make people feel wary as more than a quarter (27%) of men and more than a third (35%) of women said the thought of buying a used car from a private owner made them feel ‘stressed and anxious’.

However, despite the lack of faith in the market, many consumers feel they have little choice as 60% said they are unable to afford to buy a new car. In fact, people see used cars as better value for money, with more than a third (36%) thinking that a new car would lose its value too quickly.

The top consumer concerns in the RAC Cars survey were:

• 73% fear being sold a ‘lemon’ – a duff car with pre-existing problems
• 37% worry that the car they have bought may be ‘clocked’**
• 41% say they are concerned about buying a vehicle without a warranty
• 35% are afraid about paying too much for the car

Instead used car buyers most want to have:

1. A full vehicle inspection by a recognised independent motor mechanic – 39%
2. A full service history – 30%
3. A full MoT and service to reassure them – 28%
4. A warranty in case something goes wrong – 23%
5. A professionally valeted vehicle – 12%

RAC Cars chairman Rupert Keane said: “Consumers feel like they are stuck down a ‘cul-de-sac’ when it comes to buying a used car as many have little choice but to take the risk despite their anxieties.

“We asked RAC members what they wanted from the used car buying experience and the top answers were quality vehicles, peace of mind and outstanding value for money. RAC Cars will provide all three by giving buyers the reassurance that every car is prepared by dealers to high standards and is supplied with a warranty and RAC breakdown cover should something go wrong. This is why we think the launch of RAC Cars (www.raccars.co.uk) looks set to bring a new level of trust, transparency and confidence to the used car market.”

The RAC Cars 3-2-1 Go! reassurance plan includes a minimum of three months’ warranty, two months’ RAC Rescue and one five-day drive-away insurance plan included in the advertised price. This allows buyers to immediately enjoy driving their new vehicle with complete confidence.

Keane continues: “The RAC’s decision to bring its name and skills to improve this experience is excellent news for anyone looking for reassurance when buying their next used car. That’s why we believe the launch of RAC Cars, created following the acquisition of Netcars.com, provides ‘the safer way to buy a used car’.”

Prospective buyers logging on to www.raccars.co.uk can browse upwards of 60,000 cars and make a purchase safe in the knowledge that the vehicle’s past won’t come back to haunt them.

Ends

Note to Editors

* Research carried out by One Poll with 1,000 UK drivers on 26 April 2013
** Clocking is a term referring to the illegal practice of reducing the number of miles on a vehicle’s odometer

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

RAC – Simon Williams – 01454 664123 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

Win an Ariel Atom

The RAC is giving away this iconic British performance car as part of the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed celebrations. For more information and to enter, visit www.rac.co.uk/win-an-atom before 31 August 2013.

The launch of RAC Cars (www.raccars.co.uk) today promises to give consumers a new level of trust, transparency and confidence in the purchase of their next used vehicle.

Created following the acquisition of Netcars.com, RAC Cars offers the motoring public access to quality cars from quality suppliers packaged with its unique 3-2-1 Go! reassurance plan, all of which is included in the price to customers.  

Every one of the 60,000 and growing number of vehicles on the site come with a minimum of 3 months’ warranty, 2 months’ RAC Rescue and 1 five-day drive-away insurance plan. This will allow buyers to enjoy driving their new vehicle with confidence as soon as they purchase.

The RAC Cars proposition was developed in response to extensive research with RAC members and motoring consumers around their concerns when buying a used vehicle. The research* revealed that nearly three-quarters (73%) of men and women fear buying a ‘lemon’ and a similar number (74%) want a warranty in case something goes wrong.

As a result the site will not include any private sales, traders or independent dealers that do not adhere to 3-2-1 Go!

As every car on sale comes from franchised or RAC approved dealers, the traditional used car worries around mechanical soundness are significantly reduced because vehicles are prepared to a consistently high standard. In addition, the majority of the stock will be between six months and five years old, and will have been well-maintained with an excellent service history.

A growing number of the cars on the site will be supplied through RAC approved dealers who comply with the 80-point RAC BuySure preparation standard. Going beyond 3-2-1 Go!, RAC BuySure includes a minimum of three months’ RAC warranty, three months’ RAC breakdown cover** and use of the RAC Accident Care service.

RAC Cars chairman Rupert Keane says: “The used car consumer finds the acquisition process fraught with anxiety and mistrust so the RAC’s decision to bring its name and skills to improve this experience is excellent news for anyone looking for reassurance when buying their next used car. That’s why we are positioning RAC Cars as ‘the safer way to buy a used car’ on our website.

“Our members listed quality, peace of mind and outstanding value for money as their top criteria and we aim to offer this. In order to achieve that goal we have to ensure the suppliers on RAC Cars are of the highest standard possible, their cars are the best available (we won’t stock every vehicle they have) and that there is a reassuring ‘safety blanket’ wrapped around each car. We call it 3-2-1 Go!”

RAC Cars will  grow to provide a choice of more than 120,000 vehicles and extend the range of products and services offered for the benefit of both motoring consumers and participating dealers.

Keane adds: “Used car buyers have been in desperate need of a trusted service like RAC Cars for years. We are the only search engine with seven million driving members that focuses on providing such peace of mind to those acquiring their next vehicle. It’s what you expect from the RAC. It’s the RAC brand promise.”

In addition, all RAC Cars customers can also benefit from a 40% discount*** on vehicle based annual breakdown cover after their initial two months cover is up.

The RAC is keen to hear from dealers who would like to work with RAC Cars. Dealers can register at dealers.raccars.co.uk/register for more details or visit www.raccars.co.uk website.

Ends

Note to Editors

* Research carried out by One Poll with 1,000 UK drivers on 26 April 2013
** RAC BuySure breakdown cover includes – Roadside, Recovery, At Home and Onward Travel.
*** 40% discount applies to standard RAC prices for vehicle based cover on all cover levels with payment on a continuous annual basis for the first year of membership. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. RAC reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

RAC – Simon Williams – 01454 664123 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

Win an Ariel Atom

The RAC is giving away this iconic British performance car as part of the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed celebrations. For more information and to enter, visit www.rac.co.uk/win-an-atom before 31 August 2013.

Bristol Mayor George Ferguson has a bold ambition to tackle the city’s traffic and congestion problems but leading motoring organisation, the RAC, insists that motorists must not be ignored in the debate.

RAC spokesman Pete Williams said: “We welcome an open public debate on potential solutions for Bristol’s congestion problems and the RAC is ready and equipped to speak up for motorists.  We have 116 years of motoring experience and championing the cause of the often overlooked motorist.  No-one questions that big bold decisions are required to tackle the city’s traffic problems but the Mayor has to consider the economic and social impact of a congestion charge.

“Research by the RAC Foundation revealed that 92% of passenger journeys are made by car and the RAC’s seven million members tell us that they have cut out all non-essential journeys in an effort to reduce their cost of motoring but they also tell us that their car is necessary to get to work, to get their children to school, to shop and to maintain contact with friends and family.

“After 10 years the London Congestion Charge can be considered a success but Bristol is not London – the city does not have the same public transport infrastructure. Bristol has made great strides towards being a greener city with a busy Park-and-Ride scheme, good cycle networks and car share initiatives but the public transport choices are simply not there or realistic for the tens of thousands of people who have to commute into and across the city to get to work.

“Any scheme will require the broad support of motorists to have any legitimacy – punishing drivers who are just trying to get to work and to live their lives is not a long-term solution for Bristol’s traffic problems.”

The RAC is keen to support any initiatives which reduce the volume of traffic on the road, but solutions have to be effective and realistic. Eighty per cent of cyclists hold a driving licence and 50% of RAC members are regular cyclists so we are naturally proud of Bristol’s status as the first Cycling City but we have just come through one of the harshest winters in years in which cycling simply wasn’t an option for many commuters and simply unfeasible for busy people juggling family and work commitments.

Williams said: “Research is still required into the potential impact of a congestion charge for the city centre.  The experience of many residents’ parking schemes has just been to push the problem further out and to harm local retailers and we can expect that a congestion charge will prove equally as unpopular.”

Ends

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Pete Williams: 07768 811 595 / pete.williams@rac.co.uk

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown  

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

The RAC has today (7 May) launched RAC Accident Management, a revolutionary new B2B service for businesses with large fleets, following a £2 million investment in a market leading IT platform.

Created and headed up by some of the best known names in the industry, the Accident Management service builds on the RAC’s strength of brand to secure strong commercial terms in the supply chain that are then passed on to fleet companies.

Added to this, suppliers have also invested in technology that enables them to deal with a significant proportion of work using the well-established RAC Rapid Repair.

This solution means that an increasing proportion of repairs are able to be fast tracked, to reduce overall time – guaranteeing effective cost control and a materially faster-than-average repair process.

Considering that some larger fleets can have up to 50% of their vehicles damaged in accidents a year, the overall benefits of this new service are significant.

To help the prevention of accidents from occurring in large fleets, there are also a number of risk management tools built in as part of the new service.

Head of accident services Jim Monteith said: “The main focus for fleet operations remains effective risk management and cost control – this has always been the case and never more so than now.

“Obviously, the ideal is to prevent accidents in the first place, however, if they do happen then our objective at RAC Accident Management is to ensure that  repair costs don’t spiral and the repair is carried out as quickly as possible.

“The £2 million investment in a state-of-the-art IT system called ICE Claims, coupled with the recruitment of experts from within the industry, has resulted in a number of key benefits aimed at facilitating an efficient and cost effective solution for RAC and its customers.

“Having extensively researched the marketplace, RAC firmly believes that our new Accident Management service gives us a leading edge as we re-establish our fleet accident management proposition.”

RAC chief executive Chris Woodhouse said: “British businesses lose millions every year when their vehicles are off the road due to accidents. Lost business they can ill afford. While a vehicle is in the repair shop, additional hire costs can also severely impact bottom line profits, not to mention the worry and hassle they have in sorting out repairs.

“As the motorist’s champion, it is important for the RAC to support all our business and corporate members with the same solutions-driven approach we do our individual members. We have brought our extensive fleet management experience, industry knowledge and buying power to the design of this new service. Customers get on with running their business or fleet and we sort out getting their vehicles and drivers back on the road quickly, safely and at minimum cost – keeping Britain on the move and business thriving.”

RAC Accident Services cover all business vehicles including HGVs. The Service includes breakdown and roadside assistance with a First Notification of Loss (FNOL) capability and a new online claims management system. Repairs are then carried out by a nationwide network of 150 RAC Approved Repairers using genuine manufacturer parts. RAC scrutinises repair estimates and underwrites all repairs for three years. The new IT system enables customers to view their own claims status online. RAC can also provide customers with total loss management and salvage or disposal of vehicles.

ENDS

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Sarah Rice – 01454 665562 / sarah.rice@rac.co.uk

Simon Williams – 01454 664123 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

Notes to Editors

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown  

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

The RAC is to include legal expenses insurance worth up to £25 as standard for around two million of its individual breakdown members.

Supporting the organisation’s vision to be seen as the ‘motorist’s champion’, the introduction of Motor Legal Care will enable qualifying RAC members* to pursue claims for uninsured losses following UK road accidents should they wish to.

Protecting members as both drivers and passengers, Motor Legal Care provides cover for up to £50,000 of legal costs as well as assistance with a replacement vehicle while theirs is being repaired.

The RAC believes Motor Legal Care will revolutionise the legal expenses insurance market which has traditionally been dominated by brokers and direct insurers selling the cover as a costly add-on to motor policies.

The RAC took the decision to include Motor Legal Care with new and existing breakdown policies in light of the Jackson Reforms which are designed to put an end to the compensation culture in personal injury accident claims. The changes, which came into effect on 1 April, include the banning of referral fees for passing on personal injury cases and a limit to the fees that can be recouped from bringing ‘no win, no fee’ claims. RAC Motor Legal Care provides cover to qualifying members* from 1 April 2013. However, the RAC can also assist with claims dating back up to three years.

In addition, the RAC is also now providing Accident Care to members who need to have their vehicles rescued or recovered following road accidents. Wherever possible, the RAC will aim to recover the cost of this service on the member’s behalf.

RAC insurance director Kerry Michael says: “While a change to the personal injury claim system was clearly needed, there is a danger that some people will find it far more difficult to get access to justice. By including legal expenses insurance within our industry-leading breakdown cover, we believe we are making it easier and more affordable for our members to pursue legitimate personal injury claims should they want to.

“Our Accident Care service is also designed to make our members’ lives simpler in the event of an accident. The last thing you need after a road accident is the added concern and financial burden of having to get your stricken vehicle recovered.”

For more information on Motor Legal Care, visit: www.rac.co.uk/motorlegal or call RAC Membership Services on 0800 092 6830.

For more information Accident Care, visit www.rac.co.uk/insurance/accident-legal/accident-care or call 0800 0966 999.

ENDS

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Simon Williams – 01454 664123 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

Sarah Rice – 01454 665562 / sarah.rice@rac.co.uk

Notes to Editors

* Qualifying members refers to individual customers who have bought their breakdown membership directly from the RAC rather than via a corporate partner.

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

•    www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
•    www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown  

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

The RAC – Britain’s most experienced breakdown provider – is launching a major recruitment drive to find new roadside technicians, office staff and breakdown call centre apprentices to serve its growing membership of more than seven million motorists.

Last year its 1,720 RAC patrols attended 2.3m breakdowns, fixing four out of five vehicles at the roadside in an average of 37 minutes. The RAC has been at the forefront of roadside assistance for 116 years and its patrols have gone on to become a familiar feature on the UK’s roads as they work to keep members moving 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The mechanical, technical and customer services skills of patrols along with the expertise of its office-based team has led to 98% of members saying they would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family.

The RAC has already recruited more than 50 roadside patrols so far this year and is still on the search for another 50. It is also looking to recruit for 130 roles in its breakdown, sales, and customer and membership services teams at its offices in Walsall, Bristol and Manchester, 12 of which are for apprenticeships in the Breakdown Assistance Centre in Stretford, following the successful appointment of 12 apprentices in the Walsall office. Between its three offices and its patrol force, the RAC currently employs 3,560 people.

RAC operations director Neil Thompson said: “We’re naturally very proud of the great work our patrols and breakdown call centre team do day-in, day-out. The calibre of our staff is second to none and this is the prime reason our members are so satisfied with the service they receive at the roadside. Our decision to introduce apprenticeships is very much part of the RAC’s ongoing belief of investing in people for the future.

“To make sure we keep up our outstanding level of service we have a very rigorous recruitment policy that ensures we only hire the best. To be an RAC patrol you need to have four to five years’ experience working as a mechanic and have great customer skills. This ensures the RAC maintains its excellent record of fixing vehicles at the roadside while at the same time helping members avoid high garage repair costs.

“The RAC is not only the oldest motoring and breakdown organisation, it is also continues to lead the field in innovation with the latest roadside technical and diagnostic equipment and training to the state-of-the art in-car telematics technology service, RAC Advance, which is capable of remotely diagnosing a vehicle fault.”

And, with only four female patrols working on the roads, the motoring organisation is keen to find more female mechanics interested in becoming RAC roadside technicians. It is also looking to fill vacancies in the London area.

Thompson added: “The world of car mechanics tends to be dominated by men but our female patrols have demonstrated very clearly that women not only do a great job they have great customer service skills.”

Twenty-five-year-old Louise French, who works in the Poole area, joined the RAC after initially wanting to go into nursing, but then became attracted to a life on the road and has not looked back since.  

“I’ve been working for the RAC in Dorset for five years and can honestly say that I love my job and really look forward to going work every day – even when I have to start at 6am in the rain and snow!” said Louise, who appeared alongside many other RAC patrols in the second series of Channel 5’s Winter Road Rescue.

For more information, visit www.rac.co.uk/careers.

ENDS

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Simon Williams – 01454 664123 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

Sarah Rice – 01454 665562 / sarah.rice@rac.co.uk

Notes to Editors

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

Win an Ariel Atom

The RAC is giving away this iconic British performance car as part of the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed celebrations. For more information and to enter, visit www.rac.co.uk/win-an-atom before 31 August 2013.

Major barriers to purchase decision are cost and battery range

Greener cars may be on the point of becoming more common on Britain’s roads as almost half of drivers (49%) would consider buying an alternatively fuelled vehicle while a quarter (25%) say they are likely to purchase one in the next five years.

A survey of 1,400 motorists conducted by the RAC also found that for nearly a third (31%) the small range of battery-powered electric vehicles is hindering adoption and that cost is the main barrier for a quarter (24%).

In terms of which low-carbon technology will prove the most popular, 25% of motorists felt low-emission petrol or diesel internal combustion engine cars would dominate, with hybrid electric following behind on 17%. Pure electric took 10% of the vote and hydrogen-powered 8%.

The RAC findings around the willingness to purchase greener vehicles support sales figures of alternatively fuelled, low-carbon cars and light commercial vehicles which increased in the UK in 2012**.

However, the research also shows there is a lack of awareness of the Government incentive scheme designed to offset the cost of purchase. Awareness of the Government’s Plug-In Car Grant which is designed to help with the cost of buying new electric, plug-in hybrid electric, hydrogen fuel cell cars or vans, was very low with 75% of those surveyed completely unaware of its existence.

RAC technical director David Bizley said: “Schemes such as the Government’s Plug-In Car Grant are great incentives to encourage consumers to consider greener vehicles but it is clear that awareness remains relatively low and opinions on alternatively fuelled vehicles are still mixed. The car is an essential part of everyday life in Britain so it is vital that its future is safeguarded by adopting the new low-carbon alternatives as they become available and affordable. In order for this to happen, consumers’ perceptions of low-carbon vehicles must be changed.

“Manufacturers are working hard to give motorists greater choice of well-engineered, low-carbon vehicles to fit their lifestyle but our research has shown the price of these is clearly inhibiting sales.

“With the cost of motoring topping the list of concerns in the RAC Report on Motoring 2012, there are clearly savings in running costs to be had from making the switch to a lower carbon vehicle. However, motorists still have to be persuaded of the overall benefits of alternative fuels. Hopefully the efforts of manufacturers, the Government and, indeed motoring organisations, will eventually lead to ultra-low-carbon vehicles being the first choice for the vast majority of motorists.

The RAC is raising awareness and encouraging adoption of low-carbon vehicles through its sponsorship of the Royal Automobile Club’s Future Car Challenge. The initiative is a motoring challenge open to electric, hybrid, hydrogen and fuel-efficient traditionally powered vehicles, during which entrants aim to use the lowest amount of energy on a 63-mile route from Brighton to London. For more information, please visit http://www.futurecarchallenge.com/

ENDS

Notes to editors:

* Based on a survey of 1,449 people on www.rac.co.uk in November 2012.

** Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders – sales of Alternatively Fuel Vehicles have increased by 11% from 23,601 in 2011 to 26,193.

https://www.smmt.co.uk/2012/12/uk-automotive-defies-double-dip-in-2012/

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Simon Williams: 01454 664123 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

Notes to Editors

About RAC

With around seven million customers, RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol & diesel.  Show support and find out more at fairfueluk.com

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 38 minutes*
• RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown service – so we get to you fast**
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family***

RAC's news releases and a selection of images are available from the internet press centre at www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
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* RAC Insight - Excludes accidents and extreme failures. Direct individual membership only. Jan-Dec ’11

** Mintel Recovery Services Dec ’11. Based on service providers using their own patrol force.

*** Based on members surveyed at the roadside (Jan - Aug 2012) giving RAC a score of 7/10 or more when asked how likely they would be to recommend RAC Rescue

The RAC has appointed one of the UK auto industry’s most respected sales directors to lead its growing corporate partnerships division.

Former sales director at Allstar, Jenny Powley takes up the same role in corporate partnerships at the RAC and will play a central part in the strategic development and delivery of the Business Services division, which represents more than five million motorists.

Powley, an expert in dealing with large and often complex organisations with a variety of needs both nationally and internationally, will report into Director of business services David Aldridge.

She said: “The UK has a thriving motor industry within all segments of the market from large corporates to SMEs and, now more than ever, it is vital they are supported by partners delivering the most effective and efficient outcomes.”

“The RAC is committed to being the market leader and is already working with outstanding brands and organisations, which is part of the company’s innovative and exciting approach to establishing and growing relationships.”

“Throughout my career, I have looked to create sustainable solutions to support customers and achieve business objectives and, with the dedicated team we have in place across the RAC, I look forward to being kept busy doing just that for the foreseeable future.”  

David Aldridge said: “Having Jenny on board is a real coup for the RAC. Her expertise in auto industry sales and marketing as well as superb client management and service delivery means she is second-to-none.”

“The fact we are continually attracting such talent is testimony to the work being put in by the teams on the ground and we look forward to developing our teams and services even further.”

Powley is joined in her role by new account team members, including former Copart account manager Martyn Buchan and Martin Breen, a formed DHL and JLR manager, who will work across the country with clients such as Tesco, Hyundi and British Gas.

-Ends-

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Sarah Rice – 01454 665562 / sarah.rice@rac.co.uk

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown  

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

With half-term school holidays coming up and more Brits than ever before opting to leave the crowded airport terminals behind and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road as they take their cars on trips to European destinations, the RAC is urging the estimated one in three British motorists  who don’t take out breakdown cover to think again.

Every year the RAC handles more than 50,000 calls from customers who break down in mainland Europe needing specialist assistance. Last year, the five most common countries for UK drivers to break down in were: France (60%); Germany (9%); Spain (9%); Belgium (5%) and Italy (4%).

The top problems experienced by UK drivers are:

1. Engine faults – 21%
2. Tyres – 11%
3. Accidents – 7%
4. Gearbox and clutch issues – 5%

RAC European Breakdown figures also revealed hundreds of vehicles that break down abroad each year require repatriation to the UK.

Drivers with older cars should take heed as 70% of breakdowns abroad occur with cars that are more than five years old, while nearly four in 10 (37%) repatriations dealt with by the RAC in 2012 were for cars that were more than nine years old.

And, as the number of Britons choosing to save on air fares and take European road trips increases exponentially each year, the number of breakdowns and repatriations is only going to rise further.

According to the RAC’s statistics, Brits who break down abroad without adequate breakdown cover could be faced with a hefty average bill of up to £1,000 if they break down in France, but double that amount if they find themselves stranded further afield for example, in Southern Spain or Italy, and their car needs to be recovered and returned to the UK. This could mean some unfortunate motorists face the prospect of actually paying nearly as much as the cost of their holiday just to get their car back home.

But it’s not just breakdowns that can blight a driving holiday. A car crash abroad without the necessary breakdown cover in place could result in British holidaymakers not only facing crippling costs but having to make recovery and repairs arrangements and negotiate prices while dealing with potential language barriers and cultural misunderstandings.

RAC European breakdown operations manager Dave Huggon said: “Driving abroad might seem like a great way to save money. Families can make significant savings by opting to drive to Europe rather than shelling out on airfares, airport taxes, baggage handling fees, not to mention airport car parking charges.

“However, failing to ensure that you have European breakdown cover in place could mean that your budget break on a shoestring becomes an extremely expensive excursion indeed.

“Many motorists make the costly mistake of assuming their vehicle has the same level of breakdown cover abroad as it does at home – sadly, this may not be the case. You need to carefully review your policy before you set off and check that it covers roadside assistance, recovery and repatriation, whether you break down or crash.

“If you don’t have adequate cover for your driving holiday, you need to ensure you either increase your existing contract or take out standalone European breakdown cover for complete peace of mind and to avoid unnecessary stress and significant additional expense.”

The RAC offers single trip European breakdown cover and comprehensive single or multi-trip annual policies to help keep UK drivers on the road in almost 50 countries across Europe.

Benefits include roadside assistance and repair whenever possible or towing to the nearest garage, English-speaking incident managers on call 24/7 and help with repatriation back to the UKⁱⁱ. The comprehensive European breakdown cover also includes emergency repairs of up to £150ⁱⁱⁱ; a replacement driver if the driver is taken ill and help covering the costs of accommodation, continuing your journey or getting back to the UK.

For more information, visit www.rac.co.uk/breakdown-cover/euro-breakdown or to get a quote, call 0870 333 2784.

Dave Huggon added: “Breaking down abroad is a sure-fire way to ruin your holiday and could cost you thousands of pounds if your car has to be recovered and returned to the UK, so check you are covered before you set off.

“RAC European Breakdown cover provides just that peace of mind as 90% of customers who broke down in 2012 said they were satisfied with the level of service they received. This includes both service at roadside and the speed with which calls for assistance are answered. Last year we’re proud to say that our teams answered 93% of calls within just 15 seconds.

“Even if you have the right cover in place ‘prevention is better than cure’ so it’s always a good idea to take some preventative steps to ensure your car is in good working order before you pull on to that ferry. While we can’t predict every eventuality, simple tasks such as checking your tyre pressure and ensuring your oil and water levels are topped up can make all the difference between an enjoyable, stress-free driving break and a huge holiday headache.”

To find out country-specific driving requirements, visit the Driving Abroad pages in the Travel section on www.rac.co.uk.

– Ends –

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Pete Williams: 07768 811 595 / pete.williams@rac.co.uk

Simon Williams: 07725 822107 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

Notes to Editors

ⁱ Daily Mail, September 2011
ⁱⁱ Excess applies
ⁱⁱⁱ Covers emergency labour costs only

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family
• RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC

More than seven million motorists are gearing up for a getaway in the UK or Europe this Easter, making the roads the busiest they have been since Christmas and New Year.

A new study* conducted by the RAC, Britain’s longest-running motoring organisation, reveals that 25% of drivers are planning a short break over the four-day bank holiday weekend. As a result the breakdown expert is getting ready for a ‘roads rush’ by scheduling an extra 10% patrol hours on Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April.

For some, the appeal of warmer, sunnier weather on the continent is the biggest draw, with nearly a million (864,000)** motorists planning a long weekend getaway in Europe, while others are simply taking the opportunity to visit family and friends or to enjoy a few days away from home.

RAC roadside operations manager Matt Dallaway says: “With as many as 25% of the UK’s 28.8 million*** car owners planning day trips or an Easter getaway, we are gearing up our patrols to deal with the inevitable increase in breakdowns amid greater congestion on the roads.

“With British spring looking far more like winter some people are clearly looking to take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy some sunshine abroad. Others will be keen to spend Easter with friends and family, which is bound to make the roads far busier than normal at the weekend and later again on Easter Monday when many head for home.”

As well as preparing for the increased volume of traffic on the motorways this weekend the RAC is also closely monitoring weather reports following the bad weather which has caused disruption to large parts of the UK.

The RAC is advising motorists to listen to the weather forecast before making any long journeys and to ensure they are ready for adverse conditions on the road by travelling with emergency motoring essentials such as a first aid kit, a reflective warning sign, an ice scraper and a torch. If snow is forecast then make sure you have warm clothes, blankets, boots, food and a warm drink. Visit the RAC shop – www.racshop.co.uk – for all your motoring needs where you will find everything from satnavs to snow chains as well as European driving travel kits.

Dallaway adds: “Remember – if the weather takes a turn for the worse consider whether you can postpone your journey until conditions improve. If you must drive then ensure you adjust your driving behaviour to the road conditions and ensure that your vehicle is fit for the journey.”

To help plan your journey visit www.rac.co.uk to use RAC Routeplanner and download the free RAC Traffic app which gives the most up to date road information available including incidents and ongoing roadworks.

Alternatively, you can use the RAC traffic line by calling 64644 from a mobile phone or 09003 444999 from a landline.

This provides:

• Traffic information for any road in Great Britain
• Traffic information for the local area, with the added benefit of detecting your current position from your mobile phone
• A five–day weather forecast
• More information about the service

The RAC recommends that you use 64644 to plan your journey before you depart, and park safely before using the 64644 service, or use a suitable hands-free device.

– Ends –

Contacts:

If you are a journalist and would like further information, please contact:

Pete Williams: 07768 811 595 / pete.williams@rac.co.uk

Simon Williams: 07725 822107 / simon.williams@rac.co.uk

Notes to editors

*Research conducted on ragdoll w/c 18/03/13 with 2,033 respondents.
** 3% of 2,033 respondents planning to go to Europe this Easter extrapolated to 28.8m driving licence holders
*** Department for Transport Vehicle Licensing Statistics, Great Britain: Quarter 3 2012

About RAC

With around seven million customers, the RAC is one of the UK's most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC is able to meet drivers’ needs.

The RAC is committed to providing the very highest levels of service to its customers and ranked first for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates' UK Roadside Assistance Study 2006 to 2009. The RAC was also the top-named breakdown organisation in the July 2009, January 2010, July 2010 and July 2011 half-yearly UK Customer Satisfaction Index from the Institute of Customer Service.

RAC Insurance has been awarded the Best Overall Vehicle Insurance Provider 2010/11 by themoneypages.com and voted ‘Best Online Motor Insurance Provider’ at the Your Money 2012 awards.

The RAC supports FairFuelUK campaigning for fairer taxes on petrol and diesel. Show support and find out more at www.fairfueluk.com.

Key Facts:

• RAC patrols fix four out of five vehicles at the roadside and on an average within 37 minutes
• The RAC has more patrols per member than any other breakdown provider
• 98% of members would recommend RAC Rescue to their friends and family

RAC press releases, news alerts and a wealth of motoring research is available from www.rac.co.uk/press-centre/.

Follow us on Twitter:

• www.twitter.com/RAC_Press
• www.twitter.com/RAC_Breakdown  

Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/RAC