Vans, Cars and Leasing

At the beginning of December 1895 the mechanic Václav Laurin and the book-seller Václav Klement, both bicycle enthusiasts, started manufacturing bicycles of their own design, patriotically named Slavia in the nationalist atmosphere of the end of the 19th century. A few years later, in 1899, the Laurin & Klement Co. began producing motorcycles, which were soon successful and gained several racing victories. After initial experiments at the turn of century, producing of motorcycles was gradually replaced by automobiles form 1905 onward.

Many, many years later in the creation of Skoda Octavia, the company laboured hard in producing the most advanced technology therefore making every part to be high in quality and with outstanding technical specifications. Basically, the Skoda Octavia is a small family car created by Skoda Auto in the year 1996. The name itself was patterned after a certain model which was originally released in 1959 and 1971.

The vibrant and fresh interior of the Skoda Octavia will guarantee every passenger to have a relaxed feeling while boarding to their destination. It is mounted with excellent Volkswagen Group switchgear as well as good quality plastics. Space is never an issue since there is sufficient room for both front and rear seat occupants and it is designed in such a way that it will be a cosy place to stay in. The hatchback’s boot is huge. Its dashboard which was fashioned using PU technology is transparent with smooth curves and surface that will be very pleasing to touch. Controls are properly arranged and numerous storage compartments are mounted that will only make staying inside as comfortable as one longed for in a vehicle. Moreover, all of its upholstery are carefully made therefore creating beautiful ambiance within. And with all these features, what more would you look in a vehicle?

In essence, the first generation Skoda Octavia which was launched in the year 1996 paved the way to make the company renowned in the automotive world. Upon its released, it harboured a huge success because of its strength, sophistication and value for money. The model was based purely on Volkswagen Golf but considerably with larger body that tenders better comfort. And although the chassis is not working really well, it can still go along with ease even on twisty curves and will go fine even on extra long journeys. One seen problem with this vehicle is it creates enormous wind noise which can go even on the cabin at motorway travelling speed and because of its flaws; the company decided that in the year 2000, the first generation will have a facelift. After then, it was still being marketed most particularly in Germany, Asia, and West Europe where it bears the name as Octavia Tour.

Moreover, the second generation Skoda Octavia was released in 2004 which was based on the A platform and other Volkswagen Group of cars which include VW Golf V, Audi A3 II, SEAT Altea, SEAT Leon II, VW Touran, and VW Golf Plus. In India, it was named as Laura to better set it aside from the first model. Manufacturers of the second generation were able to skilfully incorporate all the good point of the first generation to while eliminating all the weak points. At the present, it features more legroom for rear seat passengers as well as augments ground clearance at front and rear in order to diminish the menace of grounding on steep ramps or facing kerbs. On 2006, an off-road version was launched into public in the third quarter of the year which was named as Octavia Scout which characterizes a Haldex four-wheel drive manipulated by a computer-controlled clutch-based centre-differential. In addition, it also features a 4×4 that offers 24 mm higher ground clearance compared to the standard versions.

The revolutionized in Skoda Octavia model only proves of the company’s commitment to improve their model to answer the demand of their supporters. And they are also highly sensitive to what their critics had to say because they believe that these people would help them in the improvement of their models making them a competitive brand in the automotive world.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services
Skoda Leasing - Skoda Octavia Leasing

The all new Kia Ceed surely looks very European and not purely because of the fact that it shares a lot of the design cues of the current Toyota Corolla and Mazda 3, two other Eastern cars designed to meet Western tastes. Not comparable to those mid-sized Korean cars, this model looks as if it has been created by engineers who are conscious of the need to take on the Ford Focus and VW Golf which resulted to a product that appears extraordinarily well adapted to life in one of the toughest sections of the world car market: the family hatchback class. Basically, the Kia Ceed is a small family car which was released in European market and is available in five-door hatchback, 3-door hatchback as well as five-door hatchbacks with an option up to four trim levels, five engines, and either automatic or manual transmissions.

What’s with the name? The name was said to originate from the Community of Europe and European Design with an ’ED’as its project name. Another conclusion why it was named that way is it was derived from “cerato evolved” because the Cerato is the predecessor of this model. Through the years they have spent in the industry, they had received several awards which include ‘Idea of the Year’ presented by Autocar, ‘Hatchback of the Year’ by What Diesel Car?, Towcar award in the eyar 2007, and ‘New Car Honours’ by Auto Express.

As you enter the cabin, Kia Ceed will reveal to you its real surprise. One thing, it’s roomy. Elegance is tendered by its soft-touch plastics and rubber-finish switches that will enable you to drive according to your needs. The gauge cluster was superbly created to help monitor speed, engine revs, and to see the amount of distance traveled. Furthermore, it is lit with orange glow that is specially made help the eye adjust freely mostly when driving at night time. It has digital information system that gives useful data at an instance like cock, calendar, outside temperature, trip computer, door ajar indicator, audio system information as well as tyre pressure monitoring system.

All of these features will help you achieve hassle-free ride since all the information that you need are furnished. Technologically advanced parts are as well mounted like it has been created with USB socket that will allow the user to play MP3s from a memory sticks. The model also features a water-repellent side glass which is not common to some vehicle model. On the other hand, the vehicle’s exterior need not to be discussed more since just a mere look at the model will tell you how beautiful it is. Much more than good looks and comfort, the Kia Ceed is also packed with highly performing parts that will provide excellent drive on the street. Mounted with 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre four cylinder petrol versions plus, er, 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre turbodiesels.

And to answer the demand of the present generation, Kia motor made sure to equip this model with environment friendly components that will produce less pollution. In fact, the company also opens an Eco-technology research institute in September of 2005 where research in environmental technology was incorporated to the Kia Creed. Moreover, the vehicle is a perfect example of value for money given that it possess all the necessary features and equipment but with a price that is reasonably tendered that wont hurt the pocket. Also, it will give its owner the peace of mind that they longed for because it comes with 7 years warranty upon purchase and since it can be repaired in over 3200 KIA Dealership within Europe therefore offering you more peace of mind.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services
Kia Leasing - Kia Ceed Leasing

Owning a vehicle is advantageous but for some who usually change their model or for those who do not have enough money to purchase a vehicle, car leasing is simply the answer. It has various advantages like you don’t have to worry about resale value when you want to get another model and you don’t have to spend a lot of cash in an instant. Although this is highly beneficial, it has also it drawback-the vehicle is not yours! As an answer to the problem, the Personal Contract Purchase was made in which you can take advantage of car leasing and you will have the opportunity to own the vehicle if in case you change your mind.

The Personal Contract Hire which is also known as PCP is particularly created for private individual. This is the most popular method of funding a vehicle. It is categorized as a provisional sale agreement that provides protection under the Consumer Credit Act 1974 as well as the Financial Services Regulations 2004. This kind of agreement gives an alternative to set up a contract term, with monthly payments. When the term expires, there is an option whether one will pay the remaining payment in order to own the vehicle. The amount to be paid will base upon the outset. However, if the first is not an option, the car can just be returned to the leasing company.

The Personal Contract Purchase has a lot of benefits. The monthly payment is set so you can budget your bills beforehand and the amount to be paid is typically lower than other forms of finance. The initial payment is also low and you can refinance the payment at the end of the term if you wish to. Road tax will be included in your payment for the first years and if maintenance of the vehicle is included, you will have to pay it for the life of the contract. If you go for PCP with maintenance included, you don’t have to worry about repair and maintenance service because it is already included. But there are few disadvantages to this kind of agreement like it is extremely costly compared to hire purchase agreement and you will also have to worry about car insurance.

Moreover, another option to take is the Personal Contract Hire that provides the user a fixed monthly rental for fixed period. But unlike Personal Contract Purchase which you will have options to take at the end of the contract, in this kind you simply need to hand it back to the leasing company. This method is well accepted by company car drivers who are given car allowance instead of providing them with company vehicle. As a general rule, it is highly important that you know how payment will be computed. Basically, the personal contract hire company will determine the ‘residual value’ of the vehicle.

For you to guesstimate the value the company will request you to stick to a certain mileage limit in driving and when you exceed the limit, you will be penalized at the end of the term. Now, if you drive a lot then the Personal Contract Hire is not good for you since you will only suffer high monthly payment in the end. But since this offers a fixed monthly payment then you will benefit of driving different models of vehicles after every few years. And so before deciding whether you will go for Personal Contract Purchase or for Personal Contract Hire, you need to examine first your lifestyle.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services - Van and Car Leasing

A new retro-fit hybrid conversion that unlocks the potential to save 61% on fuel costs and lower tailpipe emissions by 39% has been launched.

The conversion, which has a removable battery pack, upgrades existing vehicles to hybrid technology. However, the technology, which was developed in the UK by MIRA engineers, will be sold only to carmakers for use on new models. A demonstrator has been built around a Skoda Fabia.

As a “plug-in hybrid” the vehicle can charge its Lithium Ion Phosphate batteries by running its engine or by plugging into the mains. The advantage with this new system is that the lightweight battery pack – about 11kg – can be lifted out of the car for recharging.

“Despite advances in powertrain technology you can still obtain electricity from your domestic provider far cheaper and greener than you can produce it via an automotive combustion engine, so ‘plug-in’ hybrids make sense,” said Derek Charters, MIRA’s advanced powertrain manager.

“With this project we’ve removed the primary limitation of the ‘plug-in hybrid’ concept by allowing the battery pack to come to the mains, rather than having to park right next to a socket.”

The 50/50 hybrid derives power jointly from a 60Kw petrol engine at the front and two 35KW inboard motors powering the rear wheels though MIRA’s e-differential. The H4V returns 64mpg, as measured on the EU drive cycle. Whilst general levels of performance, such as top speed and acceleration are similar to standard.

As an evaluation tool, the demonstration vehicle is not for public sale, so the project received support through the Energy Saving Trust’s (EST) Low Carbon R&D programme, which is funded by the Department for Transport.

“This project has designed a new system allowing hybrids to be more flexible and practical for every day use,” Philip Sellwood, EST chief executive, said.

“With over 20% of the UK’s total carbon emission produced by road transport every year, these advances in technology are vital.”

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services - Van and Car Leasing
Hybrid Car Leasing

In the automotive world, European models are not only those that are able to make a name in the industry in fact, there are also Asian Company that manages to stay despite the stiff competition there is among vehicle manufacturers. Hyundai is an example, which is one of the largest Asian car importers in the US evidently because of the great number of Hyundai cars driving along the major roads of the states.

The company was able to produce worthy vehicles like the current Hyundai Coupe that went on sale on the January 28 at the year 2002. Its creation wasn’t easy at all. Hyundai engineers had labored most of their time finding ways how to make this vehicle superbly different among the rest. Truth is, it took 26 months to build up at a cost of $230 million US dollars. It was created in Korea at Hyundai’s ultra-modern Ulsan plant. Since it’s a coupe, anyone can expect its good quality most especially since Hyundai has a long history in the production of coupe vehicles. Indeed, Hyundai is currently the World’s largest vehicle maker which had started from a humble beginning.

The curve as well as the contour of the rear hip of this new Hyundai Coupe is an echo of the previous Coupes. Nevertheless the grille and headlight clusters are new together with its rear end, which now possess a much sportier appeal than the previous models. In fact, its exterior design is what set this vehicle apart from the rest. It possesses an elegantly created headlight that achieves a sporty stance because of its all new headlamp covers that have modish back surrounds as it blend wonderfully with hood lines. Its fog light is as well finely crafted which are integrated below bumper level that offers extra illumination in poor weather conditions and so safe ride is always assured. Moreover, the electrically powered sun roof provides the owner with an option of fresh air at the touch of a button. It was crafted using highly advanced tilt and slide mechanisms as well as a deflector that prevents the occupants from being rocked.

When you enter inside, you will see that there have been a few changes to the centre console, bringing it up to date which is proven by the addition of an iPod connection in the front centre armrest that plays the standard radio/CD player and SmartNav. In addition, driving in a hot weather condition won’t be a problem with the Hyundai Coupe’s advanced automatic air conditioning system. So no matter how hot it is outside, the ambient atmosphere within will never ceases to continue because of its selected setting. Moreover, the look of its interior sum up its performance potential, in fact the moment when you enter the model, you will right ahead know that the vehicle is potential enough in bringing excellent performance, handling, road-holding and braking ability. Its body-contoured seats is well crafted with an option of colorful trims which include cloth, cloth and leather or all leather that all resulted to a rare combination of style, spottiness and sensuality.

Safety is as well given because of the twin front air bags which are latest de-powered type. It is specially designed using a technology that purposely lessens the risk of accidental deployment during a low-speed collision. And unlike any other models, slippery surfaces are a concern no more for the reason of its optional electronic stability programme (ESP) which is potentially able simultaneously reduce power and applies brakes to individual wheels. All these safety features will allow Hyundai Coupe owners to enjoy their driving, in safety.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services
Hyundai Leasing - Hyundai Coupe Leasing

Fuel availability for motorists outside Scotland will not be affected by the potential shutdown at the Grangemouth refinery, assures the Petriol Retailers Association (PRA). The strike, which is planned for next Sunday and Monday (27, 28 April), seems more likely to go ahead following the breakdown of talks last night between the Unite union and Ineos, the owner of the Forth-based refinery.

“If the shutdown does occur, the effect on supply in Scotland will be limited due to the sheer volume of fuel already in the supply chain,” said Ray Holloway, PRA director.

“If motorists in Scotland buy their normal fuel requirement, any inconvenience ultimately caused by the industrial dispute at Grangemouth will be minimsed.

“It is still not certain that the refinery will close, and even if it does the fuels already in storage will remain available for distribution to forecourts across Scotland.

“It is bulk-buying of fuel that will ultimately be responsible for any shortages.

“Even if supplies are not interrupted, if motorists buy more than their normal requirements, they will be putting abnormal pressure on the road delivery services of the oil industry in Scotland.

“Forecourts do not have unlimited storage facilities. If they are prematurely drained of fuel stocks due to bulk buying this will lead to consumer inconvenience while they are refilled.

“Fuel suppliers have planned for these circumstances and by working with the Scottish and UK Governments will be able to ensure forecourt retailers requirements continue to be delivered by road tanker.”

Van Leasing is also comparable to paying for the usage of a car, truck or any vehicle allowed to be used for a certain period of time. A lot of people have mistakenly associated van leasing to van rentals. However, the former has one major difference. When you say van rental, you’re going to use the van for a very short period of time, this can only be days or weeks, on the other hand when you talk about van leasing this requires at least a year of usage.

When considering a van lease, first thing that you need to mull over is the price. Make every effort to get a good deal and try to negotiate as much as possible. Moreover, if you are a smart lessee, you should familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of the van being leased. Once you are able to talk to your van dealer and agreed on the financial aspect, the dealer will then sell your chosen van to the leasing company at a price that has been agreed on. Then the leasing company will let you have the van at the settled price. This will be the time for you to give out the total amount of the leases that is being spread over a period of every month. Just remember, that before making any deal, written agreement should be carefully read, understood and checked.

Also, take into account that the dealer is only an agent working as a medium between you and the van leasing company. Dealers are people who would do the scouting for you so as to avoid any hassles on your part. The dealer serves as the middleman who would speak on your behalf and would let the leasing company know of any concerns specifically when it comes to the mode of payment. In this line of work, the dealer is given a portion of the price of the leased van known as the “commission” in each of the purchaser he endorses.

However, once a written agreement has been inked, keep in mind that the settlement is now between you and the leasing company excluding the dealer. The dealer’s work ends there. Any concerns regarding your van should go directly to the leasing company, nothing more nothing less. The dealer is totally out once the agreement has been settled.

There are a number of renowned and reputable motor and van companies like Ford and General Motors that have van leasing businesses acting as subsidiaries. You can also transact to dealers directly coming from these companies and dealers hired by banks and other leasing and loaning institutions. Furthermore, along with the monthly obligations that you usually pay when you lease a van, you still have to shoulder and pay for equivalent fees, taxes, licensing fees and other pertinent documents needed to be completed the same way as owning your own vehicle.

The leasing contract comprise of different agreement along with the deal of the van’s usage for a specified number of year or months. A pledge is also being done to ensure that the van will still be in the same running condition and continue until the end of the duration period. On the end of the leasing period, you are compelled to return the car to the leasing company. Small dents are acceptable however, serious damages on the van will call for damage fees and additional fees when you opt to use the van longer than the specified time. The leasing company also gave lessee the opportunity to buy the vehicle or can be used to trade for a brand new one.

The other thing to keep in mind when using leasing company’s is that they already have great relationships with certain dealerships and can often get the vehicle at a reduced rate in the first place, so it is often better to talk with the leasing company about what they are able to offer before even going to see a dealership.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services
Van Leasing Deals - Car Leasing Deals

Mitsubishi Shogun has been a constant match for those amongst family-sized 4×4s.
The third generation Mitsubishi Shogun, which surfaced in the year 2000, was a car that helped set trends. The Engines together with the suspension were bolted directly to the monocoque body rather than installed in a separate chassis, this is said to be in total contrary to the way that many family-style 4×4s had developed. It had more in common with the car-like luxury 4×4 models like the ones of BMWs X5.

This has become a cross between old school appeal and modern underpinnings that have proved its popularity, and the fourth generation car builds on solid foundations with a massive host of detail changes.

The Mitsubishi Shogun offers very useable concession between on-road refinement and off-road capability that can be gleaned as efficient for most people. The Shogun is also more than a competent tool in the rough stuff. It uses an all-wheel control system which also works with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4 II transfer case. Using a centre differential lock, this system offers four transmission modes; high range rear wheel drive, high-range full time four wheel drive, four-wheel drive is differential for slippery conditions and low range four wheel drive with the locked differential for hauling out over a mud bath.

The Mitsubishi shogun’s shape looks very recognizable and there are key differences between this fourth generation car and its direct predecessor. A perfect example is the contoured front lights blended with the blistered leading edge of the front wheel arch. There’s a three door short or five-door long wheelbase models that are offered. When it comes to Chassis firmness, this has been improved by means of increasing the number of key spot welds on the monocoque, an additional structural and a greater use of high tensile steel. Mitsubishi’s innovative HideandSeat system instantly converts the long wheelbase car from a five to a seven-seater.

You could also have an option of three or five doors, those Shogun buyers have the choice of a four model line-up the familiar Equippe, Warrior and Elegance variants as well as a new luxury Diamond range-topper and the Mitsubishi Shogun comes packed with numerous safety measures and luxury equipment.

All models come with ASTC active stability and traction control; it also has alarm and keyless entry, climate control, twin front, side and curtain airbags. This also has an ABS or the anti-lock brakes and 17inch alloy wheels fitted as standard. Other standard features may be much longer but the pricing for the Mitsubishi Shogun remains tight and cost effective emphasizing Mitsubishi Motors value-for-money policy.

Now that Mitsubishi are known for their petrol-powered engine, the Shogun range looks as if it is a more manageable proposition in terms of costing. Thus, the Mitsubishi Shogun considered as the fourth generation car brooks is no great surprises but in many cases, familiarity has bring up respect for Mitsubishis low-key approach. It has a solid engineering, a good and excellent compromise between off-road durability and on-road refinement.

This Shogun also is an extremely aggressive pricing all combined to make sure that what some people may consider a throwback is, in fact, a vehicle of keen relevance. Overall, the Shogun occupies a small but with a great impact and vital niche in an ever-evolving 4×4 market. As sales of the more grandiose cars wane in favor of more environmentally responsible car, there will always remain a major requirement for an all-weather, all-terrain vehicle that can has the ability to tow, fulfill the family responsibilities with not so costly price. The Mitsubishi Shogun carries out these duties efficiently.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services
Mitsubishi Leasing - Mitsubishi Shogun Leasing

The change of registration plate last month has led to a significant influx of part-exchanged cars and put residual values under pressure. Adrian Rushmore, managing editor at EurotaxGlass’s, predicts used car prices will fall, on average, by at least 3% during May. This follows a steady erosion of prices since October of last year at a slightly more accelerated rate than for the same period 12 months earlier.

“The deterioration in market conditions has conspired to increase depreciation,” said Mr Rushmore. The average three-year-old car will lose around £700 more from its original new price in 2008 compared to 2007, and this is reflected in the lower prices that dealers are asking for cars.”

The increase in supply of used cars also has implications for those defleeting.

“In most instances, current dealer stocks are more than adequate to meet demand, so the best prices will only be paid for those vehicles that offer a desirable combination of popular colour and specification, and are also in excellent condition,” said Mr Rushmore.

“If, for example, there is a need to rectify any damage to bring the car to a marketable condition, they are likely to mark down its value more heavily at present.”

Car Leasing has become one of the most probable solutions an individual can consider if he wants to have his temporary car for an intervening time. When you lease you do not pay for the whole value and amount of the car for you only pay for the part or a potion of the value that decreases throughout the duration of the leasing term. There are a lot of car lease emerging and making mark in this industry, however, only few will bound to stay.

One of the best options is the Citroen C5. This is Citroen’s ‘Mondeo’, the all-new C5. Totally redesigned, the French saloon gets a fresh platform, a new air-suspension system and a high-quality interior which offers much more space. This is a sleek addition coming from the French automobile maker and has made an impression of quality build and body and the eye catching features that comprised of a hydro pneumatic suspension, hydraulic transmission, and directional headlights

The said release of the C5 in the market has become a way for those who prove that along with many companies it can still have its own name and success. No other car on the Citroen line has been as pleasant and innovative as the C5. In addition, the finance charge that is what the leasing company earns for the transaction and that can be incorporated to the interests charged on an auto loan. This implies that if you don’t want to keep the car and you like upgrading your wheels every now and then, leasing might be the suitable option for you.

The new C5 is considered to put style back into the Citroen line of automobiles and will definitely be one of the best car lease deal options in the market to watch out for. Its good looks will be coupled with a bevy of all kinds of features including hydractive suspension, a fixed-hub steering wheel, and a Parking Space Measurement system also known as the Backseat Driver.

This is a kind of French ingenuity built in German quality and this is a kind of feature expected the Citroen C5. Engines will include punchy diesels such as the firm’s new 173bhp 2.2-litre HDI unit and the Ford/PSA-developed 2.7 V6, as well as a range of petrol motors topped off by a 3.0-litre V6. While most models will come with six-speed manual transmissions, there will also be the choice of semi-automatic and fully auto gearboxes. It will have to weather it’s own against the competition in the name of giants like Mazda 6 and the Ford Mondeo.

But the Citroen C5 will absolutely be quite affordable and will definitely be the new version that says a lot and boast of a whole new design capability of Citroen and their future bringing. Some of the features of the Citroen C5 are the passenger compartment which remained stable during an impact. The driver’s knees were well protected by an airbag mounted in the lower dashboard. Citroen with the airbag would also protect its passengers who were bigger and those seating in different positions. The passenger was well restrained and his knees did not get close to the dashboard. Also, with the Side impact, The C5 scored maximum points in the side impact and pole tests.

The Child-protection feature is where the passenger’s airbag can be disabled to allow a backward facing child restraint used in that seating position. However, some of the main information about the status of the airbag are not that distinct and clear. The label warning of the dangers of using a rearward facing restraint without first disabling the airbag was clear and permanently visible. ISOFIX found in the rear outboard seats was not clearly marked.

Even if the C5 has not received any recognition for the protection offered by the front edge of the bumper, still the new Citroen C5 has been rated as four stars for child protection along with the good feature called the Pedestrian protection and scored maximum points on the bumper.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services
Citroen Leasing - Citroen C5 Contract Hire