What's going wrong?

You could say electric cars have had a bad time recently, especially in the USA:

• Coda, a Californian electric car manufacturer, filed for voluntary bankruptcy on May 1st.
• Better Place, a global promoter of switchable batteries, filed for liquidation in Israel.
• Fisker, an American electric car company, nearly collapsed - and reports are stating that used Fisker cars are worth far less than their new counterparts.
• Fiat-Chrysler is making losses of $10,000 on each electric 500e it sells - but it has to sell them due to California imposing quotas regarding 'zero-emission' vehicles
• The UK government offers incentives to people who choose to go electric but less than 4000 have been bought through the scheme so far.

What's going well?

However, there has been plenty of positive news:

• Tesla, another Californian company that makes battery-powered sports cars, reported its first quarterly profit - and paid back its $452m government loan early.
• According to the Electric Drive Transportation Association, a total of 56,550 hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery-powered cars were sold in the US in May 2013.
• Closer to home, a free charging station has been installed in Stratford upon Avon.
• The BMWi range will be rolled out this year, featuring a very different take on electric vehicle design and functionality.
• There are also due to be more electric cars launched in 2013 - the UK Government grants only cover a small number of models at the moment, so the relatively low uptake could be down to that.

So... where does that leave us?

Some would argue that perhaps the 'experiment' of petrol-free driving has failed, but this may be oversimplifying the case. Yes, they can be expensive and tend to have a limited range. But one of the major problems faced by the companies trying to revamp the automotive industry has been mismanagement, and also the competition with regular cars.

Because of targets set by politicians, cars across the world have been getting greener - so electric cars may only form part of the solution to the environmental damage caused by automotive pollution. Indeed, the American model of state subsidies has been largely ignored in Europe, where overall emission standards are set and businesses are left to their own devices to work out how best to meet the required targets. Regular cars are getting greener and greener, meaning drivers don't have to go 100% electric in order to save the planet. (You can view our range of low-CO2 cars if you can't take our word for it!)

According to the Economist, “sadly, politicians see electric cars not as a means to a greener future but as an end in themselves.” This is true not just in America and the UK - Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor, has stated her aim to have 1 million electric cars on the road by 2020, but Germany appears to be far away from reaching this target. The Economist goes on to say “the odds are that pure electric cars, despite their slow start, will be part of tomorrow's cleaner traffic: they will just not be the whole answer.”

The issues with going electric

Many commentators see poor infrastructure as an issue, with a lack of charging stations - as well as access to off-road parking - possibly putting people off. The truth is, creating the right culture for widespread electric vehicle use will take more than just financial incentives and clever marketing.

Another problem is the cost of going green, but recent entries to the electric car market have tried to combat the issue of affordability by operating a different kind of payment scheme. Like a mobile phone contract, you can pay for the car - with help from the Government grant - and then lease the battery for roughly £70 a month. (You will also enjoy free road tax and lower running costs, so the cost of the car may be putting people off more than it ought to.)

See if you can go green for less than you might think: Arnold Clark has a range of electric vehicles on offer, such as the brand new Renault ZOE and the Nissan Leaf as well as various hybrid models. You can search our 100% electric vehicles by clicking below.

Apple is enhancing iPhone integration in cars its latest iOS 7 update, announced yesterday by Apple and due to launch in Autumn. This is very different to the level of iOS integration currently seen in the likes of Ford AppLink, or in Volkswagen's iBeetle.

"95% percent of new cars sold today have integrated music playback and control from an iOS device," said Eddy Cue, senior vice president of software and services, during the WWDC keynote yesterday, "but we want to take this integration to a whole new level."

Powered by a new and improved Siri, 'iOS in the Car' will allow users to make phone calls, make (Bing-powered web searches, play music, use Apple Maps and read iMessages aloud (as well as transcribe dictated responses). It will also integrate with 3rd party apps like Twitter and Wikipedia.

iOS in the Car is about as close to an iCar as you're going to get - though you won't be able to use it just yet. You'll have to wait until 2014 (incidentally, this is the same year that the BBC predicts every car will be connected to the web) when compatible cars with the right kind of built-in screens start hitting the market, but Apple's already got some heavy hitters on board, including:

• Honda
• Mercedes-Benz
• Nissan
• Peugeot
• Chevrolet
• Kia
• Hyundai
• Volvo
• Opel (Vauxhall)

This could well be one of the greatest car integrations ever, taking mobile apps which complement the driving experience, and cars with USB integration to a whole new level.

On Monday, Apple announced iOS in the Car, a service which promised to take iPhone integration with cars to a whole new level. It will allow drivers to access their iPhone from a dashboard screen, and will include Siri integration, maps and messages, alongside 3rd party apps like Twitter and Wikipedia.

Several major car manufacturers appear to be on-board from the outset, including Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Peugeot, Kia, Hyundai, Volvo, Vauxhall and Chevrolet. However, one major manufacturer - BMW - was missing.

This appeared to be an interesting omission, especially in spite of their recent announcement of full Siri 'Eyes Free' integration, and a number of enhancements to its in-car technology - including internet radio streaming and car upgrades which can be bought from the on-board iDrive computer as part of BMW ConnectedDrive.

The official response from BMW

We reached out to BMW for comment. A spokesperson from the company told us that "…the upshot is that as we have such an advanced multimedia offering that has been in vehicles in various guises for more than a decade it would not be that straightforward to start changing all of the architecture of a car as has been implied [by Apple]."

BMW feel that their ConnectedDrive offering is “class leading”

BMW went on to explain how they develop their own technology for their systems, although the head units (the centrepiece of the dashboard - generally containing a screen in most modern cars) come from outside suppliers. BMW confirmed that Apple is not actively involved with BMW at present where their head units are concerned.

"Not as simple as it sounds"

The BMW spokesperson also told us that iOS integration with a car's dashboard is "not as simple as it sounds", so they believe iOS integration with BMW is unlikely to happen in the short or mid-term.

When we asked if iOS might conflict with iDrive or ConnectedDrive, BMW told us that "…it’s likely that the iDrive as an HMI (Human Machine Interface) control can be optimised to function with any operating software" though they "see this remaining on BMW operating software going forward."

Interestingly, BMW also added that "...vehicle OEMs pre-invest many years ahead of development" so it would come as a surprise if such a system (iOS in the car) became ubiquitous across manufacturers in the next few years - something several Tech publications have been very quick to speculate.

Finally, our BMW source added that "the true potential would be for those [manufacturers] who do not have a mature multimedia offer" continuing to say that "we are catered in this regard but would happily work with Apple should the situation arise".

"Not just a question of Apple functionality"

So will not working with Apple’s iOS in the Car put BMW at a competitive disadvantage? BMW don’t think so. “When you look at what other manufacturers offer, we are class-leading in this regard,” said our BMW source. “Moreover, it is not just a question of Apple functionality more one of the other facets that are an intrinsic parts of the car, such as the Emergency SOS service, vehicle condition and serving that we add on top of music and other entertainment functions”.

A broader look at the philosophy behind ConnectedDrive can be found on the BMW website.

BMW's with advanced in-car ConnectedDrive technology are currently available from our Harry Fairbairn BMW dealerships across Scotland.

On Monday, Apple announced iOS in the Car, a service which promised to take iPhone integration with cars to a whole new level. It will allow drivers to access their iPhone from a dashboard screen, and will include Siri integration, maps and messages, alongside 3rd party apps like Twitter and Wikipedia.

Several major car manufacturers appear to be on-board from the outset, including Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Volvo, Vauxhall and Chevrolet. However, one major manufacturer - BMW - was missing.

This appeared to be an interesting omission, especially in spite of their recent announcement of full Siri 'Eyes Free' integration, and a number of enhancements to its in-car technology - including internet radio streaming and car upgrades which can be bought from the on-board iDrive computer as part of BMW ConnectedDrive.

The official response from BMW

We reached out to BMW for comment. A spokesperson from the company told us that "…the upshot is that as we have such an advanced multimedia offering that has been in vehicles in various guises for more than a decade it would not be that straightforward to start changing all of the architecture of a car as has been implied [by Apple]."

BMW feel that their ConnectedDrive offering is “class leading”

BMW went on to explain how they develop their own technology for their systems, although the head units (the centrepiece of the dashboard - generally containing a screen in most modern cars) come from outside suppliers. BMW confirmed that Apple is not actively involved with BMW at present where their head units are concerned.

"Not as simple as it sounds"

The BMW spokesperson also told us that iOS integration with a car's dashboard is "not as simple as it sounds", so they believe iOS integration with BMW is unlikely to happen in the short or mid-term.

When we asked if iOS might conflict with iDrive or ConnectedDrive, BMW told us that "…it’s likely that the iDrive as an HMI (Human Machine Interface) control can be optimised to function with any operating software" though they "see this remaining on BMW operating software going forward."

Interestingly, BMW also added that "...vehicle OEMs pre-invest many years ahead of development" so it would come as a surprise if such a system (iOS in the car) became ubiquitous across manufacturers in the next few years - something several Tech publications have been very quick to speculate.

Finally, our BMW source added that "the true potential would be for those [manufacturers] who do not have a mature multimedia offer" continuing to say that "we are catered in this regard but would happily work with Apple should the situation arise".

"Not just a question of Apple functionality"

So will not working with Apple’s iOS in the Car put BMW at a competitive disadvantage? BMW don’t think so. “When you look at what other manufacturers offer, we are class-leading in this regard,” said our BMW source. “Moreover, it is not just a question of Apple functionality more one of the other facets that are an intrinsic parts of the car, such as the Emergency SOS service, vehicle condition and serving that we add on top of music and other entertainment functions”.

A broader look at the philosophy behind ConnectedDrive can be found on the BMW website.

BMW's with advanced in-car ConnectedDrive technology are currently available from our Harry Fairbairn BMW dealerships across Scotland.

"We stand by what has been said"

UPDATE: In the last few hours, AutoBlog have received information from BMW which indicates that BMW are "currently investigating the technical challenges required to integrate iOS in the Car" and that a "final decision has not been made."

We checked with our BMW source, along with the head of ConnectedDrive in the UK, who told us that they stand by what they have told Arnold Clark, adding that "...if this changes with a directive from Munich, then of course we will let you know." To clarify, our source also said they talk to Apple "as it’s a player", but "as said previously, our systems are class-leading at present."

Motoring has come along way in 25 years. As a nation, we now depend on our cars more than ever, with 89% of people saying they are more reliant on their cars now than they were in 1989.

The latest RAC Report On Motoring details what motorists in 1989 predicted driving in the UK would be like in 2013. We take a look at some of their predictions to see if they were close.

9% predicted that by 2001 most cars would run on electricity

While interest in electric vehicles is steadily growing, the UK’s roads are still a long way away from being dominated by them. [Sales of EVs haven’t taken off as expected], despite the Government offering significant cash incentives.

51% predicted that most households would own at least 2 cars by 2001

In 1989 the number of households in Britain with two or more cars was 4.5 million. Fast-forward to 2010 and this had risen to 8.1 million. This isn’t a majority of households, but they were right about the increase in car ownership.

85% predicted that all petrol cars would be required to run on unleaded fuel

True! Since 1993, all new petrol cars in the UK have been fitted with catalytic converters to help reduce harmful emissions. Leaded petrol would harm these types of systems.

7% predicted that cars would be driven by computers and there would be no need for drivers

Even in 2013 it seems we’re still a long way off this prediction. Google are, however, making pathways with their self-driving cars - but it’s still early days. While they’ve shown that self-driving cars are possible, they have no immediate plans to commercialise and develop the system for mainstream use. Darn.

56% predicted all cars would be banned from town centres

Partly true. Over recent years there has certainly been an increase in the number of councils creating car-free zones in built-up areas, favouring cleaner and safer pedestrianised zones.

16% predicted that the speed limit on motorways would be raised to 100mph

While there has been no increase in the speed limit since 1965, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been discussed - far from it. There is currently an intense debate to raise the national speed limit to 80mph – but not the 100mph that was predicted.

One thing that motorists in 1989 certainly didn’t predict was the development of mobile communications and navigation systems, primarily because mobile phones and the like were relatively unknown back then. At Arnold Clark we have a huge range of cars with satellite navigation systems.

Despite our recent report regarding the lacklustre global performance of electric vehicles in the month of May, the EV uprising continues apace with announcements from SEAT regarding their hybrid offering.

SEAT has revealed a new plug-in electric prototype based on the popular Seat Leon hatchback – the Seat Leon Verde. (For the non-linguists out there, “Verde” means “green” in Spanish – get it?)

However, the Spanish company claim to have no plans to launch the electric car as a production vehicle.

The SEAT Leon Verde was brought to life after a four-year research project, with assistance from a public-private fund partnership and a budget of 34 million euros.

What’s in a name?

Sociedad Espagnola de Automoviles de Turismo - or SEAT for short - has followed a reasonably common naming convention, evoking the ‘green’ credentials of their electric car. Other manufacturers have named their hybrid or petrol-free vehicles in a similar way – the Nissan "LEAF" is presumably intended to conjure up images of countryside, forests and a generally clean environment.

However, the ‘green’ thing isn’t for everyone. Not claiming to know what truly goes through car makers’ heads when they come up with the names, it appears that electric car titles follow two themes, on top of the environmental one – futurism and fun. The Renault electric range, including the ZOE and the Twizy, doesn’t make me think of rolling hillsides or swathes of forest. Instead, we are quick to think of playfulness (dare I say, fairground rides?) and, as Renault intended, “a different way to approach the city.”

In fact, according to the RAC the name Twizy is a portmanteau of “two” (seats) and “easy” (urban driving solution.) Despite some legal issues around the use of a first name, the ‘ZOE’ - which comes from ‘Zero Emissions’ – has remained. To my mind, this combines the fun aspect (a girl’s name! How bizarre!) with the environmental stuff. Clever.

As an electric-only brand, Smart has found it easy to position itself name-wise. Smart – clever, conceptual, new and innovative. Once you get down to models, the fortwo could hardly be more descriptive (if somewhat lacking imagination.) How sensible.

Toyota have opted for the classy, old-school approach – Prius means ‘before’ in Latin, and has been used to signify that this car is, essentially, ahead of its time – it will be the ‘predecessor’ of car design. (Similary, the word "Auris" is Latin - but, instead of going green, they've, eh, gone gold.)

The ‘futuristic’ angle has also been taken by BMW and Peugeot, who are using “i” in front of their electric car names – possibly in homage to Apple products, seen to be at the cutting edge, or as a shorthand for innovation, invention or I-can’t-think-of-a-better-or-indeed-longer-name. (Or "insight", as per the Honda hybrid car?)

Time – and sales – will tell which approach works best. How long before someone launches “the Green”?

The British Olympic Association has announced Nissan as its first major sponsor since the London 2012 Games.

As a tier one sponsor for the BOA, Nissan are also a sponsor for the British Paralympics Association in the run-up to the Rio 2016 Games.

Speaking at the media launch in Central London, Lord Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the British Olympic Association, said: ‘I am delighted that Nissan, a company that is recognized globally for excellence and performance, is partnering with Team GB on the ‘Road to Sochi and Rio’.

The BOA is aiming to raise £42 million over four years, a similar sum to the four years before London 2012. Nissan will also provide vehicles to the BOA and BPA, enabling the organisations to deliver world-class logistical support to Britain’s Olympic and Paralympics athletes. Nissan will also supply over 4500 vehicles to support the Olympic and Paralympic events.

These days, the rate at which new car models are released is incredible, with improvements to safety, infotainment and efficiency being developed at an alarming speed. Not only that, but technology previously reserved for luxury saloons is now more affordable than ever, and finding its way into hatchbacks and super minis for a fraction of the price.

Previously, we looked at predictions made by motorists in 1989 as to what they thought driving in the UK would look like in 2013 - with some interesting results.

Now the 2013 RAC Report on Motoring is asking drivers to do the same – what do drivers in 2013 think the face of motoring will look like in 2028? And are we closer to these predictions than we think?

65% of drivers think that the cars of the future will inform you when you’re over the speed limit

Believe it or not, some cars are already capable of this. Many of the newer Sat Navs can now alert the driver if they’re over the speed limit and give the driver a notification. Ford also has a system (available on the new Focus) that scans road signs as you drive along, and relays the information to the driver via the dashboard.

57% predict that fully electric cars will be mainstream

Electric vehicles haven’t really taken off to the extent the manufacturers – and environmentalists – might have hoped. Critics of electric cars blame the high costs and poor infrastructure needed to support them, although this is constantly improving.

53% of motorists think that cars will be able to park themselves

Self-parking systems have been around for a while, but are still a relatively expensive option on higher end cars. However, manufactures like [Ford] and [Volkswagen] are now making it available on their Ford and Golf models. Next step - cars that drive themselves?

52% believe that hybrid cars will be widespread

Hybrid cars are a popular option for drivers who cover long distances but still want to consider their impact on the environment (and their fuel costs), but as oil is not set to run out for some time yet, more and more of us are sticking to our petrol and diesel cars.

42% of drivers think it will be socially unacceptable to have a gas-guzzling car

We may not have to worry about this one, with each new car model released being more economical and efficient than the previous version. Even supercar manufactures like Ferrari are getting in on the act with their new LaFerrari model, which features an electric motor for a 40% reduction in fuel consumption.

40% predict that cars won’t allow you to go over the speed limit

Technology already allows the driver to electronically limit their speed - but how far are we from letting someone else do it for us? Recently, a number of insurance companies have introduced telematics insurance – a small box that sits in your car and monitors your driving habits and speed, affecting your insurance premiums. Although the box can’t directly control the car, critics argue we’re one step closer to “big brother” keeping an eye on our driving.

Only time will tell whether these predictions come true or not, but one thing is for sure – car manufacturers will continue to pour a huge amount of resource into developing new technologies to improve their latest models.

While we don’t sell flying cars (yet), we do have a wide range of cars with electric and hybrid technology on offer.

When most people imagine caravanning, images of a tired, cramped caravan complete with 80s decor spring to mind. The EleMMent Palazzo from Marchi Mobile, however, not only takes ‘glamping’ to another level but offers more luxury than even the most lavish UK homes.

A stark contrast to the worlds smallest caravan (the crampervan), the element Palazzo is currently on sale for a cool £1.9m and, for that price, you do get a fair amount. At 40ft long, the exterior is monstrously big and resembles some sort of space age creation. If you’re a stickler for bling then you’ll be relieved to know that one of the colour options is bright gold, and all colours are made using glow in the dark paint.

Once you step inside, expect to be met with 430 sq ft of pure comfort and luxury. The lounge has multiple bars and towers over two floors – and you’ll even find a working fireplace.

When it’s time to hit the hay, you can retire to your master bedroom kitted out with a 40 inch TV (with Sky) , and you’ll also find an en suite bathroom with a rainfall shower. There’s a fully equipped kitchen, and underfloor heating is installed throughout. At the top of the caravan there is a pop-up ‘sky lounge’ which opens at the touch of a button -here you’ll find (another) bar.

Marchi Mobile has said that, although the price is £1.9m, the sky is the limit and they would happily cover this in diamonds if requested.

We definitely don’t have an Elemment Palazzo in stock, but we do have a great range of people carriers for your summer road trip needs.

Vauxhall has revealed some teaser images of the new Monza concept model, a concept car created for display at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2013.

The Monza, which is a hardtop coupe version of the Vauxhall Cascada, is intended to showcase Vauxhall and Opel’s new design direction. The Chairman of General Motors, who is seen in the new car pictures, said that the Monza “will have a long-term impact on the next generation of Vauxhall and Opel Models” and also mentioned that this concept car focuses on ‘connectivity’, building on the Vauxhall Adam’s IntelliLink system with downloadable apps, along with a focus on ‘efficiency’.

The Chairman went on to highlight that the concept car “covers a whole range of subject areas and elements” and “carries them forward in a visionary fashion, expressing them with fresh inspiration and clarity.” This also emphasises Vauxhall’s move towards the high-end market: some reports suggest that the sleek new Vauxhall Monza is intended as a rival for the upmarket BMW 4 Series and Audi A5.

The Monza, which has a very low coupe stance, has a heavily sculpted bonnet and small headlamps and, according to reports, the next evolution of the Vauxhall Astra grille bar, which is clearly visible in these newly released images.

The Monza name is not new to the Vauxhall portfolio of vehicles: back in 1980s, the Monza was a two-door version of the Opel Senator sold in UK showrooms, amongst only a handful of Opel-badged vehicles sold in the UK.

Vauxhall has highlighted there are no plans to produce the Monza for the mass market, but car enthusiasts are suggesting that the vehicle could be in production as early as 2015.

If you are someone who is new to driving, or simply a little slow on the uptake, here is a list of seven easily misunderstood phrases and what they actually mean. You can thank us later.

1. “Automatic model”

In common parlance, an automatic car is not a car that drives itself, rather sadly. It just means that the car changes gear automatically... which is pretty cool as well, when you think about it.

2. “Estate car”

“Estate” refers to the size and shape of the car and not the fact that you would be most likely to see it on a housing estate. Similarly, a saloon car wouldn’t necessarily be spotted parked outside a Wild West tavern. (Where did they get these names?)

3. “Hot hatch”

A term that conjures up images of a freshly-laid egg (to me anyway), car enthusiasts use this to describe high-performance versions of hatchback models, and it doesn’t have anything to do with the temperature of the car.

4. “Golf”

Not the sport originating on the coastline of St Andrews, but a model from Volkswagen that has been around for nearly as long. For more confusing car names, see also: Ibiza, Leaf and Compass.

5. “Outstanding finance”

This doesn’t usually refer to terrific finance deals (although we have them too.) It means there is still money to pay on the car. Not quite as good as it sounds.

6. “Connected cars”

We’re not talking caravans, towbars, trailers or kids hanging on to the back whilst on rollerblades. The Connected craze is all about using in-car technology to allow cars to metaphorically speak to each other and send useful information, such as where traffic jams are. Fancy.

7. “Road tax”

I’m being pedantic here, but road tax is actually a tax paid on motor vehicles – it isn’t a tax on roads.

But what you really care about is paying as little of it as possible – so search by clicking below.

Motorists may face significantly steeper parking penalties if the Government decides to lift the current cap on UK parking fines.

Transport Secretary Norman Baker said the Government is reviewing the existing cap on parking charges, which is currently £70, to keep it in line with London parking costs. The maximum penalty charge in London is £130, and he said the rest of the country has not kept up.

Mr Baker said he is also concerned about whether the current cap is high enough to deter motorists from parking illegally, as the cost of parking legitimately has increased so dramatically.

Mr Baker said: “There is an argument that the maximum parking charge has not moved in a number of years.”

“It is coming out of line with London, where it has risen regularly under both the present and previous mayor.”

“It can be argued that if the cost of legitimate parking rises to such a degree, and the penalty no longer becomes a deterrent, then it should be looked at.”

Mr Baker did admit that increasing parking penalties is controversial in the current climate, and won’t be welcomed by cash-strapped motorists. He said:

“It could be argued any increase would send the wrong message during a difficult time in the economy to motorists.”

“Also you might argue that the impact on a town centre might be detrimental if the excess charges are introduced.”

Edmund King, President of the AA, feels motoring costs are already high:

“It’s hard enough at the moment for motorists to cope with the cost of fuel and insurance, just keeping the car running is a struggle for them.”

“Our concern would be that local authorities become reliant on the fines as income. It becomes a method of raising revenue rather then keeping the traffic flowing.”

The British Parking Association feels an increase in fines may benefit taxpayers, as parking enforcement is funded by council tax. For this reason they suggested that parking charges should be raised every four years and free parking should be cut back.

When MPs pressed the Transport Secretary on what the final decision was likely to be, he said:

“I am taking all the evidence which is before me in both directions and reaching a sensible conclusion. The matter is not entirely in my hands.”

If you’re trying to reduce your motoring costs, why not search our most fuel-efficient cars? We have a wide selection of cars which can achieve over 60 MPG, saving you money on fuel and helping to protect the environment.

Until now, if you wanted to spot a water car, you’d be best looking on the set of a James Bond movie.

California-based company WaterCar, however, have launched a real-life amphibious vehicle, which can miraculously transform from Jeep to boat in only 15 seconds.

The Panther, as it’s aptly called, is capable of doing 80mph on the road and 45mph once in the water - almost as fast as the average speedboat.

Fitted with a 3.7 litre V6 engine, the design of the Panther is based on a Jeep CJ8. A normal Jeep chassis would have been too heavy for an amphibious vehicle, so this chassis is made from chromoly steel.

Fred Selby from WaterCar, based in Newport Beach California, spent 11 years fine-tuning his creation before he felt ready to unleash it on the market.

Selby is confident that his invention will be well received - he has said that nothing compares to driving a Panther and that people will be “absolutely blown away by it.”

If you’ve been waiting your whole life for one of these, the Panther starts at £49,800 ($76,000) for a ‘Rolling Chassis’, £70,000 ($106,000) for a ‘Turn-key minus version’ (doesn’t come with an engine, bizarrely) and £89,000 ($135,000) for a complete Panther.

We’ll hand it to Fred, this definitely looks like it has the fun factor; however, if we’re going to fork out £89,000, we’d probably go for a Porsche 911 Carrera.

You’ve probably guessed that we don’t have any amphibious vehicles in stock, but we do have an excellent range of Jeeps for your off-roading adventures.

The BMW i3, first showcased back in 2011, is a four-seat hatchback run on a lithium ion battery, which BMW describes as a ‘compact, agile and sustainable’ vehicle. Commentators at Autocar, who have driven the BMW i3, suggest that the i3 ‘hints at a new age of motoring with a look unlike that of any other BMW, both inside and out’.

BMW says that the mileage range of up to 100 miles is ‘adequate to meet the day-to-day mobility needs of the target customers’. It also describes the interior of the i3 as having an ‘airy cabin’ and ‘a lounge-like character’, which has plenty of back seat room for two adults, however Autocar suggests that this i3 ‘is not a family car in the traditional sense; instead, it's highly individual, inherently practical and a fun-to-drive alternative to existing cars’.

The main internal controls for the car are operated from a pod extending from the steering column, which integrates the starter button, parking features and gear shifter. The interior is also made using renewable raw materials, allowing customers to experience ‘the sustainability of the vehicle’.

The exterior of the car sports couch doors at the rear, with a boot capacity of around 200 litres, and an additional compartment in the front. BMW describes the i3 as a car that is ‘neatly equipped for the demands of everyday use’.

After a first drive of the car, BBC’s Top Gear commentators’ first impressions of the car are that: ‘BMW has put some original thinking into almost every part of its design and engineering’. They also highlight that the driving experience is good and the range extender option removes any anxiety of running flat.

BMW has yet to release prices for the i3 but it is reported that it is in pre-production, and BMW are already taking orders ahead of a planned car debut in London on July 29. According to these reports, UK deliveries are planned for the end of 2013.

We look forward to seeing the BMW i3 on the showroom floors of the UK soon!

Citroen will use the opportunity of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, taking place this weekend, to show the word its new concept car – the DS3 Cabrio Racing (linked to Citroen’s involvement in the World Rally Championship.) The car will also be on show at the 65th Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

The unique Citroen DS3 Cabrio Racing will appear at Britain’s annual meeting of racing car enthusiasts in Sussex, combining the DS3 racing with the style of the Cabrio. Citroen claim that the Cabrio lends itself to this makeover thanks to its easy customisation and lightweight frame. Sebastian Loeb demonstrated how agile the car was when he drove it at Col du Corbier recently (see video.)

It will be clear to fans of the DS that many of identity statements are used throughout the concept car, such as the DS pattern and the Carmin colouring.

The concept car has led to a range of associated lifestyle products, including a child seat in the same pattern as the other seats in the car, and helmets in the car body colours.

Citroen’s press release says that the new concept car “is an expression of custom-built excellence, radical choices and sophistication in every detail. A convertible DS3 with the performance and sporting looks of a car tuned by Citroën Racing.”

Sorry to disappoint some fans, but the current Doctor Who has not always travelled in the TARDIS… but in an ‘X’ registration Vauxhall Corsa!

Matt Smith bought the car brand new in November 2000 and has completed 60,000 miles in it. He has decided to sell the Corsa to raise money for Starlight Children’s Foundation as it has been sitting idle on his parent’s driveway.

The car is affectionately known as ‘The Shed’ and was used by ‘The Doctor’ to travel to and from University. It has some distinguishing features, including gaffer tape round the door mirror and a few minor dents and scratches.

Matt Smith said, “While I have been travelling the universe in my TARDIS, my much-loved Vauxhall Corsa, aka The Shed, has been parked outside my parents’ house.

“I’ll be very sad to see it go but I understand my parents want their driveway back! I’d love to find a new owner for this great little car, particularly as all the profits will go to Starlight, which is an amazing charity that brightens the lives of seriously and terminally ill children.”

For those interested in bidding, the car is in “near-perfect working order” and is taxed until August 2013.

Watch a video of Matt Smith talking about his beloved ‘Shed’ on BBC’s Top Gear.

Matt Smith’s Corsa can also be viewed on eBay.

Other celebrity cars on auction

It’s not only Matt Smith’s Vauxhall Corsa that is up for sale, as the inaugural Mecum Celebrity Items Auction is set to take place on 26th and 27th July in California, and will showcase some pretty cool cars.

Flintstone Family Car

The car designed for the 1994 film ‘The Flintstones’ will be auctioned in July 2013. The film might have been a flop, but this is certainly a cartoon car to remember. (We think this may struggle to pass Euro NCAP safety standards to be road legal!)

Elvis Presley’s Cadillac

Elvis Presley’s customised Cadillac Estate Wagon was bought by ‘The King of Rock and Roll’ in 1972 and was driven until his untimely death in 1977. Originally auctioned in 1999, this classic car, with 24-carat gold alloys, has completed only 73,000 miles.

Image: Mecum Auctions

James Bond’s Lotus Esprit

We recently revealed that James Bond’s underwater Lotus would be auctioned in September

Image: Courtesy of United Artists Corporation (UA)

Since Matt Smith bought his Corsa all those years ago, the popular supermini has received a major facelift, so it might be worth taking a look at our extensive range of new Corsa offers.

ZOE

Not just a normal day at the office for Sebastian Vettel recently as he took the Renault ZOE– the first electric car he has ever driven – for a spin. Saying the drive was “funny without any noise” and “so quiet”, Vettel clearly acknowledges that the electric car is the polar opposite from the deafening Formula One racing that he knows and loves. That said, the beaming smile on the champion’s face showed that he clearly enjoyed driving the ZOE.

Twizy

Renault also took the opportunity to experiment when they had the triple Formula One World Champion at Renault’s Z.E. (zero emissions) Centre in Boulogne-Billancourt, France. They placed an F1 KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems) module in the electric two-seater Twizy, and elements from a Formula 1 car – such as the steering wheel and slick tyres – were added to the Twizy model. The racer commented that it was “fun” to experience how powerful the KERS was in the Twizy.

The F1 additions are exciting, innovative and humorous in equal measure - and certainly a good way to grab audiences’ attention. KERS takes the Twizy’s output from 17 HP to 97 HP, even if it is only for 13 seconds at a time. This boost increases the Twizy’s top speed from 53 mph to 68 mph. This may not sound like a lot, but taking the size and lightweight frame into account, 68 mph speed is no doubt rather scary.

Why not take a look at our Renault Twizy and ZOE offers and you too can drive like Sebastian Vettel – sort of.

The all-new Ford Transit Connect, available from late 2013, will provide van drivers with class-leading fuel economy, load carrying ability and durability, according to Ford. It is priced from £13,921 and will be sold alongside other members of the brand new Transit range – the all-new Transit Custom and the upcoming Transit Courier and two-tonne Transit (due in 2014).

Barb Samardzich, Vice President Product Development, said: “Ford has taken the toughness and dependability of the current Transit Connect, made considerable improvements to the fuel efficiency, added smart new loadspace features, and delivered a dynamic new style. The all-new Transit Connect sets new standards for compact vans and provides the perfect partner for a wide range of businesses.”

Developed in Essex at the Ford’s commercial vehicle centre of excellence, the Connect will be produced at their state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Valencia, Spain.

Bodystyles Available

• Van
• Double-cab-in-Van
• Kombi

Space and Load-Carrying

• Vans can now carry up to three people in the cab.
• Width between the wheelarches of 1,226mm, so both models can accommodate two Europallets in the load area.
• The Kombi and Double-Cab-in-Van models offer seating for five, or seven in the L2 Kombi model plus flexible rear seat configurations.
• Movable mesh bulkhead in DCiV versions.
• L2 model optimises load space thanks to fold-flat seat capability and accommodates loads of up to 2m.

Performance

Increased fuel efficiency, along with apparent “improvements in routine servicing and maintenance costs” will mean that the new Transit Custom is low-cost to run.

• Best in class fuel efficiency
• 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine (twice winner of International Engine of the Year Award) – 100 PS power output
• 50.4 MPG
• 129g/km CO2 emissions*

The ECOnetic Model offers:

• 70.6 MPG
• 105g/km CO2 emissions* (when fitted with a fixed 62mph speed limiter)
• 34% improvement on current model
• Auto Start/Stop
• Active Grille Shutter
• 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine
• 75, 95 or 115 PS power outputs

Safety & Security

• Rigorous commercial testing, covering the equivalent of 3 million miles including 250,000 travelled in real-life conditions
• Improved remote locking system
• 2 frequency channels that can be configured to your needs
• Anti-tamper door shielding

We will be sure to keep you updated when the van is available from Arnold Clark, and will have great offers for our fleet customers at our Ford Commercials branches in Carlisle, Shiremoor, Aberdeen and Kilmarnock. Contact your nearest branch to register your interest in the new Transit Connect, check out our range of deals on used Ford Transit Connect vans or search all Transit vans below.

* The stated fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are measured according to the technical requirements and specifications of the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 as last amended. Results in MPG also correspond to this European drive cycle and are stated in imperial gallons. The results may differ from fuel economy figures in other regions of the world due to the different drive cycles and regulations used in those markets.

Young Driver Jessica Evans from Shepton Mallet will be driving away a brand new Chevrolet Spark Car worth £9,000 thanks to the Arnold Clark Group, supporters of the Good Egg New Drivers Initiative.

Jessica completed an online quiz and was subsequently drawn from the thousands of entries to the competition open to young drivers across the UK. The competition was open to drivers aged between 17 and 25 years old as part of the Good Egg Safety initiative.

The Good Egg Guide for New Drivers is a comprehensive, helpful reference point that gives useful advice on all aspects of learning to drive, buying a car, getting on the road and staying safe.

The Good Egg website offers accessible tips for new drivers on important information on choosing an instructor, passing the tests, insurance, the responsibilities of getting behind the wheel and how to keep that hard-earned license.

The Good Egg Guide for New Drivers aims to reduce road casualties by providing advice that will help keep them safe and is fully endorsed by Road Safety GB. Free copies of the guide have been distributed to local authorities across the UK.

Alan Kennedy, Road Safety GB Chairman, said: "The Good Egg Guide for New Drivers has reached thousands of 17-25 year olds through distribution by our members - road safety teams across the UK. The guide provides excellent advice on all aspects of learning to drive as well as then covering owning and driving a car. Many congratulations to Jessica who must be delighted to win such a fantastic prize. Road Safety GB wishes her years of safe motoring."

Sir Arnold Clark, Chairman of Arnold Clark Automobiles Ltd, commented, “I was really honoured when we were approached once again with the chance to work alongside a committed and responsible body such as Good Egg Safety. The new guide outlines the dangers that young, new drivers face on a daily basis and how they can overcome these dangers with a few simple and effective steps. I have no doubt that educating young drivers on these issues will save lives and therefore thought it imperative that I offer my support. Well done to Jessica, who won the Chevrolet Spark in the fantastic competition, I am sure she will enjoy driving it, safely!”

Jessica (winner of the car) said “I can't describe how thrilled I am to have won such an amazing new car. As I'm about to start a degree course in September I expect to be an impoverished student for the next four years, so my prospects of owning a car like this, other than winning one, were nil. I am extremely grateful and would like to say a heartfelt thank you, winning this car really is a dream come true and a great incentive to continue to drive with extreme care.

I want to be a good, safe driver, which is how I found myself on the 'getting it and keeping it' website. Reading the 'scary stats' alerted me to some safety concerns that I may not have given much thought to previously, but the most useful tip was to encourage me to adopt the' NEW DRIVER PACT', which I am looking forward to implementing in my new car. Thank you."

Deputy Leader of Somerset County Council, David Hall said: “Congratulations to Jessica for winning this competition, I’m sure she’s delighted with her new car. I really hope that this campaign encourages other young drivers to drive carefully on the roads of Somerset.

“Our message to all drivers in Somerset is to drive sensibly and take care on our roads. That message is especially important for younger drivers between the age of 17 and 25 who are statistically the more likely to be involved in accidents.

“We want these young people to stay safe, think before they act and make the right decisions at the right times.”

Never mind loud music or wailing pets, where your neighbour’s park their car has become the most popular cause of disputes between neighbours.

A new report by the AA has found that over a quarter of the 23,450 people surveyed had argued with their neighbour over where there car was parked, with the main problem being when access is blocked to a home or drive, followed by parking outside someone’s house.

When the stats are broken down in more detail, blocking access to a property or driveway (13 per cent of all disputes), parking outside a neighbour’s house (12 per cent) and using a neighbour’s parking space (7 per cent) were the most cited causes of arguments.

Apart from parking, the other causes of disagreements were noise 23 (per cent), boundaries (11 per cent), trees and hedges (8 per cent), building work (6 per cent), pets (5 per cent) and children (3 per cent).

For those living in flats, or accommodation without private or off-street parking, this can be a major bugbear. The solution to not having a designated space is to purchase a parking permit, but these can cost up to £785 per year.

Another survey conducted recently found that 91 per cent of house-hunters were looking for off-street parking as a feature of their prospective new home– second only for the desire to live in a safe neighbourhood.

The AA suggests that the increased tension is down to the number of people sharing accommodation.

Tom Stringer, Head of Home Emergency Response, said, “Parking traumas are less down to the popularity of cars than the need for both partners to work and be independently mobile.

“Young workers group together in more affordable accommodation and often have their own vehicles.

“As a result, necessity grows a neighbourhood’s car population, squeezes available space, ratchets up friction and, like rats in a barrel, neighbours can lash out at each other.”

World’s worst parked cars

Although parking disputes are widely prevalent between neighbours, there are some cases where a person’s parking beggars’ belief.

Take a look at some of the images we found of inexcusable parking...

See the world's worst parallel park in action!

Watch this rather comical (and shortened) video of an attempt at a parallel park caught on camera. According to the group of students who filmed the video, it took the person over 30 minutes to park their car.

If you struggle with parallel parking, follow our step-by-step guide on how this can be done with relative ease.