All articles by Alejandro Gonzalez

Tariff hikes set to disrupt global auto sector: Fitch

Ratings agency warns of reduced revenues, slower growth for European, Asian and North American manufacturers

Kia tops NFDA dealer survey for fifth consecutive edition

Franchised dealers report improved sentiment across all categories, with EV margins and future model confidence showing notable gains despite continued profitability concerns.

Sam Michel appointed as BDM for UK automotive at Assurant

Arval study finds EV batteries retain 93% capacity on average, easing resale concerns

Leasing firm becomes first in sector to issue battery health certificates for used electric vehicles across Europe and the UK.

Close Brothers enters Irish PCP market with used car guarantee scheme

New ‘Close PCP’ product aims to boost affordability and expand choice for second-hand car buyers.

Manheim extends partnership with Santander Consumer UK

Three-year deal will see over 4,500 vehicles a year sold through Manheim’s auction network, including cars, vans and motorbikes.

AI transforms motor insurance and repair: From manual processes to intelligent ecosystems

Rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and customer expectations are driving insurers and repairers to adopt AI-powered solutions. From faster claims handling to predictive maintenance and sustainable sourcing, technology is reshaping operations across the motor finance and aftermarket sectors, writes Chris Wright of Solera. 

FCA warns of legal overreach as industry faces billions in claims

Court of Appeal ruling, currently before a Supreme Court appeal, paves way for compensation over mis-sold finance; FCA and firms move to assess exposure and address consumer harm. Karan Kapoor considers the issues at stake.

US tariffs, auto trade and the limits of the ‘Yank Tank’

A new 25% tariff on UK and EU vehicle imports has triggered operational reassessments across the automotive sector.

UK eases EV mandate as Trump tariffs heighten pressure on auto sector

ZEV rule changes draw mixed response from motor finance industry amid concerns over electric van uptake and used EV market viability.