Hyundai wants and needs you to be i10 impressed

Like all the best coming-of-age parties, reports Iain Robertson, the innocuous, smaller member of the family blossoms into something worthier and makes you wonder why you had not noticed its gentle maturing process over the years.

Credit for i10’s existence lies at the door of the Japanese ‘kei-class’; a tax-friendly, parking-friendly but fairly basic mode of city transport. It was inevitable that the South Korean car industry would follow in the footsteps of its Japanese ‘neighbour’. In fact, the forerunner to the current i10 was the Atos model in 1997, which was typical of the breed and a bit of an ugly duckling to be quite frank. The first examples of the i10 appeared in 2008, which satisfied practical, 3.5m long, ‘first car’ needs and soon developed a sound reputation in the UK, off the back of the government’s scrappage programme.

Unveiled at last September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the latest, third generation i10 has grown marginally in every direction but managed to remain well within the maximum 4.0m length for the sub-compact class at just 3.6m. However, every single design element is altered comprehensively for this newcomer, starting with an excellent interior, in which the most obvious feature is the touchscreen atop the dashboard, flanked by an attractive instrument binnacle and a textured dash panel.

Featuring upmarket tactility, a neat centre console, complete with charging pad for smartphones, highlights premium grade connectivity that has never been available at this level before. The cabin presents a pleasant amount of airiness and good space for four adults, with a fifth at a pinch, even though the boot capacity is a modest 252-litres, which can be expanded by flopping the rear seat backrests onto their bases. In fact, the i10 is among the roomiest in the class, despite a lack of steering column reach adjustment, which does compromise the driving position a little, but it also features plenty of small item storage slots. It is unpretentious and business-like but slightly lacking in charm, if being really critical.

Externally, the former ‘cuteness’ of the i10 has been sharpened into a more dynamic form that features stylish slash marks and angularity to its frontal aspect and a distinctive upwards kink to its rear three-quarters view, the model denomination now embossed within plastic mouldings on the rear pillars and the option of a black roof in the current style idiom. When the optional 16.0-inch diameter alloy wheels are specified, it gains an even more sporting appearance. It is around 40mm lower than before and 20mm wider. Overall, it is a clean and largely unfussy design, possessing a muscularity to its flanks that adds beguilingly to its attractiveness. This baby has grown-up.

Designed, developed (in Germany) and built in Turkey, the significantly more youthful appeal of the i10 is supported by a choice of 1.0-litre, 64bhp three-cylinder, or 1.2-litre, 81bhp four-cylinder petrol engines. A further choice of 5-speed manual, or 5-speed automated-manual transmissions, both of which can feature ‘idle-stop/go’ technology, with an interesting ECO pack availability that features adjusted gear ratios, four seats and 14.0-inch wheels intended for enhanced frugality, shows that Hyundai understands its place in the cityscape.

However, at a posted one tonne kerbweight, the new i10’s packed agenda is not exactly among the lighter of its rivals, a factor for which you can blame the high specification. Yet, the Suzuki Swift and Mazda2 benefit from weight savings, despite taking somewhat different swipes at the sub-compact sector. With the choice of two, non-turbocharged engines, the i10, while not slow is not really that zesty out of the blocks either.

The 1.0-litre will crack the 0-60mph sprint in around 14.3s, its automated transmission stablemate taking a further 2.7s to reach the same speed. The punchier 1.2-litre manages it in 12.3s (auto: 15.5s) but all models emit over 101g/km for the present (standard) £145 annual road tax bill. Top speeds are given as 97 and 106mph respectively, whether in manual, or auto-box forms (both are 5-speed units). Yet, they are competitive in fuel economy terms, returning Official Combined figures under the latest WLTP ratings of up to 56.5, or 55.4mpg respectively (manual figures only).

Any issues related to the performance deficit are soon forgotten on the open road, where surprisingly superb driving dynamics are the order of the day. A fluent ‘big car’ appeal is delivered with pitch and roll-free stability, allied to a pleasing suspension compliancy. Quick steering, with a positive feel at the helm is matched by an almost Gallic ride quality, the well-damped set-up absorbing road surface imperfections with an unexpected level of insouciance. The car’s brakes and clutch weighting are nicely balanced and supplement the more upmarket appeal. Grip levels are excellent but the i10 lacks a ‘fun’ edge. Chuck it into bends and the responses cannot match the more typical liveliness of many of its competitors, almost as though the ESP system is curbing and dumbing down the potential. Mind you, switch it off and you might be disappointed, as insufficient power makes push-on understeer more prevalent, while throttling-off mid-bend incites whip-crack oversteer…better leave it ‘on’.

There is a price to pay for the much-improved Hyundai i10, as it is no longer the sub-£10k joy-giver it used to be. Prices start at £12,495, in SE 1.0i manual form, rising to a hefty £15,495, for the Premium trim 1.2i auto, to which you need to add £1,000 for the Tech Pack, £550 for metallic, or pearlescent paint finishes, with another £500 for the optional black roof. A fully-laden i10 is tagged at disturbingly just shy of £18,000, which is a king’s ransom for a car so small.

However, it is the inclusion of SmartSense active safety and driving assistance features, as well as the vastly improved levels of connectivity that are the measures of i10’s coming of age. No car in this class has featured as much driver-orientated equipment as Hyundai has managed to incorporate, as part of a broader realisation that small cars have a vital role to play in the future of transportation. Of them all, the Hyundai app that comes with the new i10 will prove to be the most engaging, with a multitude of features to provide maximum enjoyment.

Forget the nuggety, city car roots of the i10, the new model is now just a downsized family car and much the better for its transformation. It could make a good ‘pool car’ for companies that need such transport options and first deliveries should commence at the end of this month.

Great apps to learn accounting, get a job & stay on the top of the accounting world

Introduction

Choosing the right career for yourself is no easy task. Regardless of whether you have just finished high school or are considering a new path later in life, you will know that a sense of fear will pervade you every now and again, pushing you to think that you will never amount to anything. This, however, is simply not true. If I have managed to claw my way out of a dead-end job and into something far better – so can you. Sometimes, the most obvious and the most predictable answer is the best one for you.

Learn the basics if you’re just starting

Accounting is perhaps not the most exciting of jobs but it will definitely pay your bills. This is a sort of career path that is safe and secure. Companies are always looking for people to keep their books in check. Frankly, I do sometimes get bored with it but the sense of stability it gives me provides me with peace of mind and the knowledge that my bills will always be taken care of. If you’re looking to get started and learn the basics of accounting, you should first assess your level of knowledge and be aware of where you stand. You may need to start from scratch. Learning accounting for beginners will take some time but it will be well worth it.

Get informed about salaries if you don’t know what to expect

Depending on where you are and what industry you aim for, the wages could range anywhere between 30,000 a year and three times as much. There is no hard and fast rule and you will have to do your research in order to learn what sort of salary you can expect. If you play your cards right, you will be able to navigate this tricky bit of the job interview and ask for a reasonable accountant payment the first time around. Frankly, there’s nothing more embarrassing than asking for double what your current skills are worth. Try to avoid that scenario if you can.

Use online resources to improve in case you can’t afford college

As you work on learning and improving your skills, you will find that much of the knowledge will be located behind a paywall. College can be prohibitively expensive and even individual courses will set you back quite a bit. I personally wasn’t in a position to cover any of that – at least not when I was just starting. I turned to the online tutorial format to learn the basics. Strangely enough – it worked. Even accounting apps such as these helped me a lot.

Helpful apps for accountants

Frankly, I don’t see the reason to run into debt in order to acquire skills you can pick up along the way. Be smart about it and rely on online resources instead.

Conclusion

Finding a new career path isn’t easy. Often, the most obvious solution is the best one. Accounting has helped many people – myself included – to get ahead in life. If you want to give it a try, start by building a strong foundation and learning the basics. Try to find out how much the employers in your area re likely to pay. Always be smart about your money and use all the online resources available to boost your knowledge without spending tens of thousands of dollars on a degree. Practical skills are worth more than a fancy piece of paper.

Auctioned ‘mint and boxed’ Matchbox model cars make over £300,000

Classic & Sportscar Magazine

When you consider that most of one man’s, 3,000-strong model collection had cost less than a few shillings each, highlights Iain Robertson, the desire to root around the attic, garden shed and garage for sealed boxes of ‘collectibles’ grows large.

When I was young lad, my weekly pocket-money was spent on The Victor comic and at least one new toy car, invariably from Matchbox but it might have been Corgi, Spot-On, or Dinky Toys, as all were major players in the High Street toy scene. At one stage, I had amassed around 500 examples but, as a pseudo ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’, I used to open the boxes carefully, so as not to tear the flimsy packaging, admire the miniature motorcars, but replace them with equal care, until my next explorative visit.

It was excellent practice, as my personal collection now stands at around 3,000 of all shapes, sizes (1/75, 1/43 and 1/18) and, these days, more significant costs. Although I still buy the occasional toy car…sorry, model collectible…more than half of my collection has been contributed by the motor industry and the short period of contract work (model development) I carried out for Corgi Toys during the late-1980s. I am aware that some of them are quite valuable; a German-made Schuco clockwork, tin-bodied Lotus GP racing car, is worth up to £500. Yet, even though I do have some of my collection ‘on display’ at home, the majority of it is in sealed boxes kept in a very dry shed.

The collectors’ market is exceptionally vibrant, with table-top swap meets and exhibitions taking place regularly, all over the UK and Europe. However, values are known to fluctuate substantially. Another pre-WW2 Schuco model that I own was tagged at £375 in the late-1980s (it actually cost me £100), although its value today is nearer to £250. On the other hand, a Corgi ‘Ecurie Ecosse’ race-car transporter that cost me £25 thirty years ago, is currently worth in excess of £450. To be fair, they are not all like that. If there is one rule of thumb, it is to ensure that each model is in mint condition and retains its original box. Playing with your toys is not recommended in the collectors’ scene!

One of the UK’s best-known and most respected classic car auctioneers, Simon Hope, who is chairman and founder of H&H Classics, sold recently his Matchbox 1/75 model collection of nearly 3,000 cars and trucks for a premium inclusive total in excess of £300,000. Simon told us that it was something of a wrench to sell, even at that price, as it was a collection that he had put together with love and passion over some 60 years, starting when he was a young boy.

His grandmother would not let him play with them on her lovely mahogany dining table, so he simply played with them by taking them out of the box and then putting them back, practically untouched. The collection, noted rightly as one of the finest in the world and comprising some extremely rare examples, was in completely mint condition, including their original boxes, and attracted bidders from all over the world. The collection was so large that it had to be spread out over three different sales, with specialist toy auctioneers, Vectis, of Thornaby, North Yorkshire.

His passion for Matchbox models continued into adulthood and as he got older, he continued to buy even more models, as Simon stated: “It was only as I got older that I realised there was actually a collecting scene out there, with copious information on rarer versions and colours. I never took part in that scene preferring to simply track down the ones I wanted in (or as near as possible) perfect condition. It just grew and generally they were bought with amounts of money not missed at the time.”

The highest value model in the collection was a lime green ERF Dropside lorry that sold for over £7,000 alone. A green Ford Kennel Truck fetched £3,200 and a white Ford Mustang reached £2,100. Julian Royse, a specialist at Vectis, said: “There is a big market out there for items like this, particularly the models from the 1970s but these things do tend to be generational. Models from the 1950s, which had previously been very valuable are now less so and later examples are extremely desirable. We find the demand far outstrips the supply and as such people will be very keen to collect pieces that may not come up again in their lifetimes. These toys used to be exported to eastern Europe and, surprisingly, there is now a really big market in the Czech Republic. As it happens, Simon’s collection was astounding and was probably the biggest range of any I have seen.”

While Simon’s toy collection may have been extraordinary, there are many examples of similar displays of passionate collecting and subsequent sales achievements every year. When you consider that even the most extravagant examples of the original toy cars, such as box sets and larger scale, features packed models, used to cost less than a fiver in the 1960s, that they can fetch in excess of £5,000 today pinpoints the investment potential.

If you already have a collection, perhaps it might be realistic to have it valued and insured. If you want to start a collection, it is not a bad time, as individual models can be most affordable today. It is not a bad idea to consider a theme, such as ‘race and rally’, or ‘TV/movie’ inspired, as other collectors often specialise.

Latest XV e-Boxer demonstrates that Subaru can move the goalposts

A long-standing fan of the Subaru brand, Iain Robertson becomes highly passionate, when discussing its latest developments and considers that, if you must invest in an SUV, especially one with hybrid technology, a Subaru becomes a shortlist of one!

Ever quirky, Subaru is a brand that deserves a broader appeal, perhaps of an order it attains in North America, or some parts of northern Europe, for its specific safety and dynamic features. While almost everybody knows about Volvo and its long-standing reputation in either of those areas, not enough people, even potential customers, understand that Subaru is even more safety focused, as the following test story should elucidate.

Core to each Subaru model (we shall come to the XV’s details momentarily) is its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Most manufacturers of 4×4 vehicles will highlight the ‘go-anywhere’ capabilities of their relevant models, yet they will fail to point out the weaknesses of their systems, those factors that no amount of ‘electrickery’ will serve to support. Thanks to its ingenious and essentially ‘simple’ hardware, a Subaru will not slither uncontrollably on the public highway and, where many of its purported rivals will struggle on grassy banks, there are zero issues for the Subaru driver to confront. However, a Subaru is the acknowledged ‘king’ in extreme weather conditions.

If this sounds like a soupcon of journalistic buffoonery, when I tested back-to-back a Honda CR-V and a Subaru Forester, the best-selling Honda floundered and behaved like a beached whale on a steeply graded (1 in 3) Scottish meadow, while the Forester bounded away with scarcely a whiff of wheelspin. Put simply, there is no finer, more effective, or more practical example of 4×4 technology available today. As a result of placing a flat-four configured engine (also known as ‘Boxer’) on Subaru’s nose, which drives its transmission in-line and not transversely, as most of the rest do, the car’s overall stability is faultless. Perfect balance is supported by total traction and absolutely zero slip.

An identical 4×4 system is fitted to the XV model. Apart from the typical round of trim titivations, the XV is largely the same car, based on an increased ride height version of the Impreza, that was introduced in 2012, although some platform and panel improvements have been made since. It has a chunky on-road presence arising from its signature wheel-arch trims and higher-profile, multi-surface tyres, which complies with the ‘rule-book’ for the archetypal SUV. While it is hardly a raving beauty, it does provide a sense of handsome purpose.

The XV matured most successfully a couple of years ago, at the last round of interior primping, when it gained a ‘soft-touch’ dashboard and significantly higher quality trim detailing, which included double contrast stitching on the seat upholstery. At £30,995 (on the road), the XV is not a bargain basement contender but, then, neither it should be. It cannot boast bespoke manufacturing standards but it is undeniably in the upper echelons of the compact SUV segment. A large, legible instrument display ahead of the driver, is matched by a ‘systems’ screen (for the multi-surface X-Mode) in the upper section of the dash centre and a touchscreen for in-car entertainment, sat-nav and other aspects of connectivity at the top of the centre stack.

If the area adjacent to the rear-view mirror housing looks a little busy, it is because the twin-camera (stereo) forward visualisation hardware that engages with the distance cruise and autonomous braking facilities wraps around it. While forward ‘vision’ detectors are not so unusual these days, the Subaru system, known as Subaru Eyesight Assist, monitors for hazards up to 110 metres ahead and includes: Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Sway and Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. As a primary safety aid, it deserves the industry accolades that have already been heaped upon it. However, rear-end protection is also provided via blind spot monitoring, lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, in a most comprehensive driver, occupant and vehicle safety package.

Despite the addenda, the XV remains a satisfyingly occupant-orientated motorcar. There is enough space fore and aft, as well as in the accommodating boot, for most business, or family needs. The driver’s seat adjusts through a big range, supported by the rake and reach adjustable steering wheel. Once comfortably ensconced, indulging in the XV’s inherently sound handling and roadholding envelope reveals how compromised its rivals can be.

Ideally weighted power assistance for the steering, is matched by glitch-free responsiveness. There is no torque steer in evidence and the return to straight-ahead is measured appropriately. Both throttle and brake pedals are well-weighted and the XV stops rapidly and without tugging at the helm. Its ride quality is equally well resolved, combining firm but compliant damping with linear springing and a useful ride height of around 220mm.

Subaru’s trusted, four horizontally-opposed cylinders, Boxer engine displaces 2.0-litres, develops a modest 147bhp, 143lbs ft of torque, emits CO2 at an immodest rate of 149g/km and sips petrol at up to 43.0mpg. It has a top speed of 120mph and can clock the 0-60mph dash in around 10.4s. However, it can run on its lithium-ion battery power alone, over a limited distance (around a mile), at speeds below 25mph. Its eco-credentials are supported using start:stop technology and an electric motor positioned at the car’s centre of gravity to maintain the ideal chassis balance. The XV’s towing capacity is an excellent 1,270kgs.

As suggested at the start of this feature, Subaru is a brand that should have a higher level of recognition in this country than it does. It is a ‘cognoscenti car’…you have to know it to buy into its benefits, which is why examples proliferate in Wales, Scotland and the English Lakes District. Highly regarded for reliability, with the added hybrid aspect, perhaps the broader appeal may result soon. Subaru ownership/business operation should not be an acquired taste; the brand has earned the right for more. Similarly, the XV e-Boxer is not a high-performance machine but it is an unremitting high-performer.

Everything you need to know before purchasing life insurance for the elderly

There are a number of important things to consider when you are looking into getting a life insurance policy. Whether you are an elderly person yourself or you are getting a policy for a loved one, these tips can be of great help. You don’t want to make a final decision until you have considered the following things.

Consider getting funeral expense insurance

Most life insurance companies offer policies that are specifically designed to help with covering one’s funeral expenses after they are gone. This type of policy will help your family members pay for all of the arrangements that need to be made.

Long-term care insurance

You should also think about getting a long-term care insurance policy. This will help to ensure that you don’t have any financial burdens when you can no longer take care of yourself. If you don’t have any children, this is definitely an option worth looking into.

Keep in mind that this type of policy gets more expensive the older you get. This is why you should get a policy as soon as possible. The healthier you are when you apply, the less you are going to end up paying.

How much coverage do you need?

Anyone who wants to get a life insurance policy has to first determine the amount of coverage they will require. For most elderly people, this is the cost of their funeral, which can be up to $20,000. This is definitely something that you need to think about before proceeding.

Consider your budget

You will also need to take a close look at your current budget. This will help you determine what you’ll be able to afford. The last thing you want to do is to take out a policy that you cannot cover each month. If you suddenly stop making your payments, your policy will be terminated by the provider. There are a number of inexpensive elderly life insurance in the market. You just have to stay focused on your research and choose the best one for your situation.

Explore your options

With all of the different life insurance companies out there, you’ll need to compare rates with some of them. It is important that you compare “apples to apples”, meaning the exact same policy. This will help you get the very best deal on whichever type of policy you are interested in.

The fact is that some of these companies are going to charge you more than others for this sort of coverage. The internet is a great resource to use when doing this research, so you should use it to your advantage.

You also need to make sure that you choose a life insurance provider with a solid reputation. You can find out just how reputable each company really is by reading customer reviews for them online.

Your overall health matters

If you are in fairly good health when you apply for a senior life insurance policy, there probably won’t be any issues. Those who have serious health problems when they apply might have cause for concern. This can result in your loved ones not getting as much as they normally would upon filing the claim. You will want to check with the company to find out about this before finalising your policy.

Ask about customisation options

Some life insurance companies will allow their policyholders to customise their policy so they get exactly what they need. These little customisations are referred to as “riders” in the industry. This is definitely something else that you want to inquire about when you are trying to find the right provider for this type of policy.

Life insurance isn’t primarily an investment

While it is true that some life insurance policies can serve as an investment, this is not their primary function. You should only get this type of policy as a means of ensuring that your loved ones don’t have to suffer more than necessary in the event of your death.

Final thoughts

Buying life insurance for the elderly can seem very tricky and confusing, but it is much easier when you have this information. Make sure that you do not rush into a final decision. It is crucial that you do the necessary research and shop around for the best deal on the policy you are interested in.

The best ways businesses can get all team members invested in cybersecurity practices

In today’s connected world, cybersecurity is increasingly important, not just to technology companies, but to businesses across the business world.

With reports showing that there’s a rise in cybersecurity attacks on connected products like cars, it’s evident that cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and this means that all businesses need to be doing the same.

It’s not just IT teams that need to understand and implement cybersecurity procedures: every member of staff in your organisation should be striving towards keeping customer data and information safe.

To help business owners who want to help staff to understand the importance of cybersecurity, here are a selection of practical tips.

Instil the importance of cybersecurity into your company’s internal culture

Cybersecurity needs to be a top priority for every member of your team, so you should make it a part of your firm’s culture. Discuss why cybersecurity is important with every new hire and show them how vital it is that they play their part. Make it clear that every member of your workforce has a role to play in keeping your company’s networks secure so that everyone on your team fully understands what they have to do to keep your firm safe.

Provide a cybersecurity policy to all staff

Start as you mean to go on by providing every new staff member with a cybersecurity policy. This will allow them to see the importance of online safety and make all staff aware of the expectations you have for them. Staff who are unaware of your firm’s cybersecurity policy will be unable to implement it, so make sure that they read it and make it clear that if they have any questions then they should come to you for guidance and support.

Incorporate cybersecurity into all corporate communications

Maintaining an ongoing dialogue on cybersecurity is important if you want to keep the issue at the forefront of every team member’s mind. It’s also important that you keep them all up to date on the latest developments in the cybersecurity market, and as such you should mention cybersecurity in every communication you have with your team. From monthly meetings to appraisals, corporate newsletters to email signatures, you should mention cybersecurity and your firm’s policies every time you talk to your staff. Whenever there is an update to your policy, make sure that they’re notified so that they can educate themselves and prepare to implement every part of your procedure for the benefit of your firm.

Earn cybersecurity certification

Proving to your clients that your firm is doing its best to keep their information secure is of vital importance, so consider earning official certification such as Cyber Essentials, a Government, GCHQ and industry-backed standard. This certification will prove to your clients that your firm is doing everything it can to keep up with the latest developments in the cybersecurity space. To achieve this certification your team needs to be operating to a specific standard, so you should work with an experienced outsourced IT team to get Cyber Essentials support and make sure you pass with flying colours.

Secure hardware as well as software

Cybersecurity often brings to mind faceless criminals operating remotely to steal data, but these criminals can also exploit vulnerabilities in physical technologies as well as online security lapses. As such, it’s vital that your firm makes its staff aware of the importance of securing hardware as well as software. This might involve not leaving your office unlocked at any time, or it may revolve around keeping your server room safe from intruders and checking the ID of anyone who comes to inspect or maintain it. Reinforce the importance of keeping physical technically secure alongside promoting good online practices.

Create a separate cybersecurity policy for remote devices

With connectivity now a key part of the business market, many staff have access to sensitive information through their mobile phones or laptops. This offers many major benefits to businesses, such as the ability for staff to work whilst offsite, but it is also a serious security risk. Open Wi-Fi networks are less secure than private ones, and portable technology is prone to being stolen or lost. Therefore, it’s important that your firm adopts a cybersecurity policy for all remote devices that link to any aspect of its network. Monitor the use of remote devices so that you’re constantly aware of who is using them and can make sure that they’re kept up to date with the latest software updates. Restrict the use of personal devices if possible, as this will reduce your firm’s risk and increase the control it has over the devices that access its network.

Offer ongoing cybersecurity training

As part of your staff development process you should offer all team members cybersecurity training if they want it. This will make them feel involved in the cybersecurity process and more able to implement your organisation’s cybersecurity policy. There are many different areas of cybersecurity, so making team members knowledgeable in each of these areas will increase your firm’s overall expertise.

Electrification or Fuel Cell? It’s ‘make your mind up’ time

It does appear as though, during this period of ‘transition’, the entire motoring scene has gone haywire for electricity and battery power, states Iain Robertson, while introducing remarkable levels of ‘EVangelism’ and easy-to-disprove claims.

Our nation’s legendary ‘greatest broadcaster and soothsayer’, Sir David Attenborough, who sparked environmental damage warnings well over a decade ago, has reassessed his stark admonishments, to deliver a more urgent pronouncement. Finally, and he is not alone, the blame is being placed directly and justifiably on our shoulders, each and every one of us. Time is up. Yet, before we take this entirely out of perspective, his primary concerns are with abysmal waste management and poor animal husbandry, tinged with a major regret about the speed at which breed extinction is occurring…far quicker than he had envisioned not long ago.

However, this is like fodder for the electrification scene, which believes most evangelically in a future propelled in near silence…accompanied by interminable queues at recharging stations that deliver a long overdue and time-consuming penance to us for having the temerity to glug far-from-endless supplies of fossil fuels. If you think that ‘road rage’ is a rarity, it might not be so in future. It hardly seems to matter that the predominant power stations are fuelled similarly and, in the process, only serve to shift the blame a little further along the line. Sadly, even were the entire world car parc to shift overnight from fossil to electricity, it would not stop the over-population of ‘airborne-rat’ starlings, the demise of the rhino, or the loss of antipodean camels, even though the nations would grind to a halt, with all the subsequent power surges.

Speak with any of the e-protagonists and you might believe in their blanket and blind acceptance of a future propelled by over-expensive BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles), the entry-level cost of has already breached £20k territory, when it really needs to be closer to £10k, in order to make a positive impact on the market. Yet, there are big corporate coffers to be filled, with limitless public funds, to ensure that an increasing number of e-millionaires will be the only people able to fly (electrically, of course) to their pieds-a-terre in Juan les Pins, where nobody will really care about their diesel-powered, Mediterranean pleasure boats, as we shall all be stuck in Blighty, with air travel removed judiciously from our personal agendas.

In the meantime, that troublesome patch of land just north of Hadrian’s Wall is best served with publicly accessible, plug-in electrical chargers nationally (3.34 vehicles per unit), even beating London (3.82) but putting the West Midlands in a parlous last place (17.4). Scotland also benefits from an imminent further £7.5m e-funding injection…work out the politics yourself.

Yet, our ‘industrial heartland’, as the West Midlands used to be known, could benefit from upwards of £200m from the Government Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund (another quango?), with an additional £200m from ‘private funding’, should it require it. It is worth knowing that the true sales position/uptake rate of BEVs has not quite breached 1% of the annual UK new car registrations level, after well over a decade’s worth of incessant, government and some carmakers sponsored preaching. Across the UK, there are now 9,300 EV recharging stations, contrasted with 8,400 regular fuel stations, of which just over 20% offer a fast/rapid charging option (20-40 minutes, instead of over an hour). It is worth checking who pays.

Of course, the number of carmakers indulging, during the most friable of times, in electrification is growing and those that already have twenty years of sound experience are expanding their hybrid and EV line-ups. Yet, Ford Motor Company, of which I used to be an ardent fan, has already bucked a trend with its amorphous e-Mustang, which could carry virtually the branding of any one of a dozen carmakers, and now supplemented it with a £45m investment in hybrid technology at its Valencia plant…where it produces the slow-selling S-Max and Galaxy MPVs. A clear toe-in-the-water, for one of the world’s larger vehicle producers, if ever one existed, but it is not flying solo.

Look, I know that fossil fuel consumption is unsustainable, unless we have another 50m years during which to replenish it, using human bones and our petroleum product detritus, rather than dinosaurs. On a personal front, I practice what I preach, which is my logic behind travelling only when necessary and, then, in a 1.0-litre car that attains 60mpg. I have ceased flying and I really do not ‘do’ public transport (either physically, or psychologically, both ways are interminably damaging) but I am not donning a halo. What is your excuse?

Just ‘because you can’, in both financial and social terms, does not justify the big V8 turbodiesel luxo-barge sitting in your company car parking space. Just ‘because you can’, does not warrant a fleet of 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mid-size hatchbacks for your clamouring company employees. Just ‘because you can’ will never justify acquiring an EV to save your soul that will be worth sod all in couple of years’ time. In many ways, rather than ‘EVangelism’, ‘HydrogeNation’ is where we ought to be headed. The hydrogen fuel cell is a truly efficacious means to high-mileage mobility. Let us not head like headless chickens down a pathway to early mortality, driven by the power of electricity, unless it is self-generated and renewable.

Electrification is not as ‘electrific’ as it is purported to be. In fact, it is in a mess. No amount of government funding will make a difference, because there are far too many well-informed rotters prepared to dive-in and cream off the profits. A ‘Free Market’ is fine, until control is squandered. Yet, electrification is essential. What will work is hydrogen as a fuel source and fuel cell technology, as the means to mobility. Each fuel cell ‘engine’ contains less precious metals than an average exhaust catalyser. Mass-production of fuel cells will work out less costly than the old ‘infernal’ combustion engine and render BEVs largely redundant. The technology is here. It is a plot worth contemplating, as we disappear into the plughole’s vortex.

Book Reviews

It is that time of the year, when book sales increase and both coffee-table and readable materials assume fresh levels of relevance, writes Iain Robertson, as he tackles three new titles for travel, car and engineering fans alike to consider.

The AA British Road Map Puzzle Book
By Helen Brocklehurst
ISBN: 978 0 7515 7897 3
£14.99
Littlebrown.co.uk
After many years of travelling the length and breadth of our sceptred isles, I believe that I have amassed a fair amount of knowledge about the best routes, their history and how to maximise driving enjoyment. Yet, this handy 240pp paperback (protected by a heavier, ‘Flexiback’ card cover), produced in conjunction with the AA (Automobile Association) has added not only an extra series of fun-filled assets, such as puzzles and problem solving aspects, but can also improve map-reading skills and general knowledge. While appreciating the benefits of sat-nav in a car, not least for the ability to pop in a post code and reach it with pinpoint accuracy, I remain a staunch supporter of road maps, which provide vital information that most electronic devices cannot. Although she has now left her former role as Head of Publishing at the AA, the authoress, Helen Brocklehurst, remains an ardent fan of maps and atlases. She has compiled a delightfully entertaining book that is almost named improperly, as it contains so much more than just ‘puzzles’. As with most AA map-related titles, a useful glossary of map symbols, a mileage chart and a brief history from c.AD50, when the Romans laid the Fosse Way, which runs from Exeter to my local City of Lincoln (parts of which I use frequently), to 2003 and the arrival of the UK’s first toll road bypassing Birmingham, are central to its make-up. As a fun method of understanding the highways, byways, bypasses and backwaters of our roads network, it provides a most educational route-book that can involve the entire family during those interminable treks on holiday, or to visit distant, UK-based relatives. Kept in the car, it represents great fun and is also superb value for money.

Genius Inventions
By Jack Challoner
ISBN: 978 023 3005 393
£20.00
Carlton Books (Andre Deutsch)
A recent visit to the Science Museum, in London, revitalised my fascination for engineering feats, from the smallest to the most magnificent. Although I never trained as an engineer, I have always felt that design engineering would have been my most logical career path and I retain a deep interest in developments and inventions, many of which have been led by a perpetually inquisitive automotive industry. Published in association with the aforementioned and much-loved museum, this high quality, 160pp hardback book provides an almost unrivalled, insider’s view to many of history’s greatest technological breakthroughs. The timeline running through the book’s contents starts at c.2.6mBCE and the invention of the first stone tools and ends up in the New Millennium. If that sounds like a bit of a rush over such a limited pagination, believe me, when I tell you, that its author, Jack Challoner, a man well-versed in scientific subjects, writes so engagingly and informatively that it gifts this title with the readability of the hottest novel. You will find it difficult to put down but you will be guaranteed to return and continue reading it. While it touches on most of the renowned developments in both ancient and modern worlds, supplemented with excellent illustrations and photography, it also delves into some of the lesser known stories behind inventions that have shaped modern society. However, it is not a ‘Boys’ Own’ clarion, as Mr Challoner has been very judicious in highlighting and balancing the content with the vast number of female inventions, the stories of which have seldom been told before. For teenagers of either sex contemplating their future careers, this book should be required reading. Our educational system seems to be packed with academic subjects but there exists a strong need to direct our children towards those of a scientific nature. Most exciting reading and enticing content make this a book worthy of family digestion and it represents very good value for money into the bargain.

The MGC GTS Lightweights – Abingdon’s Last Racers
By David Morys
ISBN: 978 1 787 114 45 6
£35.00
Veloce Publishing (veloce.co.uk)
Renowned publisher Veloce owns a tremendous portfolio of automobilia titles, of which the latest deals with a personal favourite: the MG MGC racing cars. Invariably quirky, unbelievably compromised, the MGC model was always intended as a replacement for the Austin-Healey 3000, even though it never fulfilled that role. It sold in modest numbers, as many as the Healey, as a production car for just two years, but MG had a racing pedigree to support, which led to the troubled development of the GTS version of the car, featuring extensive weight-saving processes, redeveloped engine technology and an effective investment to resolve the car’s inherent dynamic issues. The MGC was always a controversial model, even to ardent MG fans, of which there are millions worldwide. Sadly, the world was changing at a faster rate than the MGC and its demise, let alone that of the infamous MG Competitions Department, was all too close. The author, David Morys, is determined to place a more realistic spin on the short-lived project, which achieved only minor racing successes that failed to highlight the unsung efforts expended by the team at Abingdon. Ironically, only two of the original racing cars are memorable: MBL 546E and RMO 699F; there had been a third (MBL 547E) but it was written-off during its debut at the 1967 Targa Florio event on Sicily. Yet, the contents of this excellent, large format, 144pp hardback provide a valuable insight into these rarities, which have not been catered for elsewhere. The book details the ADO52 project (the inside BLMC reference code) and the decision to install the Austin 3.0-litre, 125bhp, straight-six engine from the firm’s large saloon. It was so bulky that it needed a bubble to be designed into the MGB’s aluminium bonnet to cover it and, in production form, it developed a modest 145bhp. Skinny tyres and greater ride height harmed its handling. In racing form, it started out with 202bhp, which resulted from extensive re-engineering. You can read all about the build process of the ‘works’ racers, supported by period monochrome and colour photography. Much more than a reference book, it tells the full story of a most exciting racing series development.

How to perfectly market your own business online

Marketing a business can be a challenging feat, particularly if you are operating in a crowded market, but with a creative idea and the right implementation strategy, you can begin to perfectly market your own business. However, if you require the help of the PPC campaign management service or SEO specialist, they can be on hand to provide you with the specialist help you need to have a successful campaign.

Use content to your advantage

Content is king when looking to boost your Google ranking and when it comes to marketing this is no different. By writing content that it’s informative, engaging and full of personality you are able to generate a connection between you and your audience that is valuable for your business. Not only will it help your business to stand out, but it will also help to answer questions that your target audience may have and therefore drive sales.

Connect on social media

Another way that you can effectively market your own business is to connect to people on Social media. Not only can these posts link back to the website and other social media platforms, but the increased communication between you and your audience can help to drive sales as well as make your brand more recognisable. A prime example of this is the quick-witted comments from Gordon Ramsey on his twitter page as this soon went viral to gain him, followers, this is ideal for a business of any size as this boost’s popularity to your social platform and helps to boost engagement overall.

Boost business through e-mail marketing

E-mail marketing is another effective way of boosting your brand over time. Not only will it get the name of the brand out there, but it will help to generate leads that are interested in your products or services. This is crucial as a business owner as you want to spend time nurturing the leads that will actually benefit your business and lead to conversions. Though finding websites and writing the email copy will require time and careful planning, this is likely to drum up business and benefit the growth of the company in the long term.

Optimise for local SEO

The final way that you can perfectly market your own business is through local SEO. By using Google my business and local keywords, this can help to drive people to your business either online or in-store when searching for location-based keywords, this is something that a number of businesses are struggling to accomplish and can put you ahead of your competitors and drive traffic to your site. Optimising for Local SEO will also help your website to rank when using voice assistant. This is a benefit to many as 55% of teenagers are already using voice assistant to find the results that they need quickly.

With this in mind, there are a number of ways that you can market your business without spending a small fortune. All that is required is a bit of planning and careful consideration and you are ready to implement the perfect campaign for your business.

The advantages of contingency recruiting

Recruiters often get a bad rap. Annoying calls, prying e-mails, frustrating response times, recruiting is a tough business. Still, the need for recruiters is evident—in small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in particular.

There are two normal types of recruiting. The most common is called retained recruiting. This is where a company will hire a recruiting agency, sign a contract with them for a certain time period, then pay them based on their recruiting efforts. These are often called contract recruiters.

The other type of recruiting is called contingency recruiting. This is where a company will hire a recruiter to find a single candidate. They sign no contracts and make no payments to the recruiter unless they successfully place a candidate.

Both of these types of recruiting have their pros and cons. Today we are going to go over the basics of contingency recruiting and why it can be such a valuable tool for SMBs in particular.

The pros and cons of contingency recruiting

Pros:

• Pay for results only.
• Zero up-front costs.
• One-Time Fee.
• Reduce in-house HR needs.
• Results-oriented recruiting.
• No exclusive contracts (aka you can utilise multiple contingency recruiters at one time.)
• Saves time and money going through resumes.
• Interviews, compensation negotiations, and feedback on candidates provided by recruiters.
• If the candidate isn’t successful within the first two months there can be a fee reduction or removal.

Cons:

• It can produce a number of candidates instead of quality.
• One-times fee is high, Anywhere from 10% to 35% of the annual salary of candidates.
• No exclusivity of candidates, they are presented to multiple clients.
• No exclusivity for recruiter, recruiter works for multiple businesses at once.
• Subpar candidates who only stay at your company for a matter of months still need to be paid for.

When to contact a contingency recruiter?

Steve Jobs was one of the most successful businessmen of his generation. Often called a visionary, Mr Jobs built Apple into one of the largest companies on the planet. He did this by, above all else, recognising the value of hiring the right people. Don’t believe me? Take it from the horse’s mouth:

“The secret of my success is that we have gone to exceptional lengths to hire the best people in the world.”

– Steve Jobs, chairman, CEO and co-founder of Apple

With this Jobs quote in mind, I think the answer to when to contact a contingency recruiter, becomes very obvious. Hiring is the most important thing you can do as a business owner, so whenever you feel you need help in the process, it’s time to hire a recruiter.

Choosing a contingency recruiter, in particular, is a different matter. Contingency recruiting, as you can see from the list of pros and cons above, is best for SMBs who are seeking to hire only a couple of candidates and want to save money on HR costs.

SMBs often don’t have the time to do in-house recruiting or the funds to pay for retained recruiters which makes contingency recruiting a great option. When managers are tired of scouring regular job boards for qualified candidates and you can’t afford a full-time HR professional or retained recruiter, then it’s time to contact a contingency recruiter.

Remember, the most important thing you will do as a business owner is hire. Do it right. Use all the tools available to you and your business will surely thrive.