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Blackwater Motors, a leading Volkswagen dealership in Cork City, proudly celebrates six years of unwavering support for Blood Bike South, a vital charitable organisation providing urgent medical transportation services. To commemorate this milestone, Blackwater Motors has donated a brand-new 241 Volkswagen Polo to further empower the mission of Blood Bike South. Since its inception, Blackwater Motors has been deeply committed to giving back to the community and supporting organisations that make a meaningful impact. Blood Bike South, renowned for its invaluable service in delivering essential medical supplies and blood to hospitals across the region, been instrumental in Blackwater Motors' charitable initiatives Cathal Quirke, Assistant Sales Manager at Blackwater Motors Volkswagen Cork City, remarked, "As a company deeply rooted in Cork City, we are honoured to stand alongside Blood Bike South in their noble mission of saving lives. For six years, we've witnessed the tireless dedication of Blood Bike South volunteers, and we are proud to continue supporting their crucial work." The generous donation of a brand-new 241 Volkswagen Polo underscores Blackwater Motors' enduring commitment to Blood Bike South and its vital role in the community. The Volkswagen Polo, renowned for its reliability and efficiency, will serve as a reliable asset in Blood Bike South's fleet, enabling volunteers to respond swiftly to emergency calls and deliver life-saving supplies with ease. Kevin O'Connor, Vice Chairman of Blood Bike South, expressed his gratitude, stating, "We are immensely grateful to Blackwater Motors for their steadfast support over the past six years. This donation reaffirms their commitment to our cause and will significantly enhance our capabilities in serving the community. Together, we are making a tangible difference in people's lives." As Blackwater Motors commemorates six years of partnership with Blood Bike South, the dealership reaffirms its dedication to fostering positive change and supporting initiatives that benefit the community. Through collaborative efforts with organisations like Blood Bike South, Blackwater Motors continues to exemplify its core values of compassion, integrity, and service.

Kia are delighted to announce its partnership with The Yoga Picnic (TYP), an intimate Yoga Festival on the banks of Lough Ennell, Co. Westmeath which celebrates Mind, Body, and Spirit. The Yoga Picnic, which takes place on July 7th will celebrate leading yoga teachers and promote awareness about yogic philosophies, wellness, mental health, sustainability and the environment. Crafted by three friends and enthusiastic yoga teachers, Mary Gardiner, Katy Harrison and Alice Harrison, The Yoga Picnic is a wellness experience which brings together both national and international teachers and leading holistic practitioners for a day of movement, therapies, discussion and music. Kia is the Sustainable Transport Partner for The Yoga Picnic 2024 and will support this eco-friendly initiative by powering all festival tents using Vehicle-to-Device (V2D) technology. Kia’s Vehicle-to-Device technology allows electric vehicle owners to power external electronic devices in various environments using the vehicles battery as a generator. V2D allows 80% of the maximum battery capacity to be used to power external devices, which is enough power for a family of four, for up to five days based on average monthly household energy consumption. V2D is available on all fully electric Kia models and is accessible via the socket under the rear seats or via the external charging port using the dedicated connector. Cathal Kealey, Head of Marketing & PR at Kia Ireland commented; “We are delighted to be partnering with The Yoga Picnic and to power the event with V2D technology. We are very much two organisations with shared goals and visions and look forward to working together to reduce the environmental impact and carbon footprint of this fantastic festival”. V2D will power all eleven tents at The Yoga Picnic 2024. On the day, Kia will also display their 10 sustainable items which are being used in the brands EV production at present. These items which either originate from recycled plastic or plant-based materials are just one measure being undertaken by the brand on their journey towards Carbon Neutrality.

We have all seen the initials quoted after various vehicle range/fuel consumption figures but some of us might be scratching our heads a little! Who and what is WLTP and exactly what does it mean when we see these numbers quoted? Well the initials stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure. This is a series of tests used to measure fuel/battery consumption and emissions from passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. The WLTP was developed by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and is intended to provide more accurate and reliable data on vehicle emissions and fuel consumption compared to the previous New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test. In the past some range figures quoted were a little generous or perhaps in ‘ideal world’ conditions such as a flat surface, just a driver on board and nice mild conditions. Whilst different vehicle models and variants may perform differently under the same testing conditions due to factors such as engine design, transmission type, tire specifications, and vehicle weight, the WLTP test cycle is more representative of real-world driving conditions, including higher speeds, accelerations, and decelerations. This makes the WLTP results more reflective of actual driving behaviour and helps you make more informed choices when browsing new vehicles on DoneDeal based on their environmental impact. So what exactly does the test for cars involve? In essence, it is a series of laboratory tests and driving cycles designed to measure fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and hydrocarbons (HC). These key focus points highlighted below help make an informed and more accurate decision. Testing Conditions The tests are conducted in a controlled laboratory environment under specific conditions, including temperature, humidity, and air pressure, to ensure consistency and reproducibility. Test Parameters The test parameters include factors like vehicle weight, aerodynamics, rolling resistance, and accessory load. These parameters are specified for each vehicle type and variant. Driving Cycles The WLTP includes four different driving cycles with varying speeds, accelerations, decelerations, and stops. These cycles simulate typical driving conditions, including urban, suburban, and highway driving. Each cycle has specific characteristics designed to represent different driving scenarios. Test Equipment Vehicles are equipped with precise measurement instruments to monitor fuel consumption, exhaust emissions, and other relevant parameters throughout the test. Test Phases The testing procedure consists of several phases, including cold start, urban driving, extra- urban driving, and high-speed driving. Each phase simulates different driving conditions to capture a comprehensive range of real-world scenarios. Data Collection During the test, data on fuel consumption, exhaust emissions, and other parameters are collected continuously. This data is then used to calculate the vehicle's overall fuel economy and emissions performance. Analysis and Reporting Once the testing is completed, the collected data is analysed, and the results are reported according to standardised formats. This includes information on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and pollutant emissions through the different driving cycles. As of now this is a mandatory test for all vehicles sold in Europe. Currently the WLTP are aiming to harmonise testing procedures globally, enabling better comparison of vehicle emissions and fuel consumption data across different regions. This standardisation helps regulators develop more consistent vehicle emissions standards and policies worldwide and strive to refine testing procedures to better reflect actual vehicle performance and environmental impact which is no doubt, a good thing!

The stunning new Opel Grandland has been unveiled by the German carmaker, boasting a range of up to 700km (WLTP). The newcomer brings to life many design features first seen on the Opel Experimental concept car, including a 3D Vizor with illuminated Blitz logo proudly sitting at the centre, and permanently illuminated OPEL lettering at the rear. The new Opel Grandland will make its way to Irish showrooms in late 2024. The next generation Grandland is the first Opel to benefit from the introduction of the new Stellantis STLA Medium BEV-native production platform. Thanks to the new architecture and its flat battery packaging allowing for up to 98 kWh, combined with a new-generation electric motor and heat pump, the new Grandland Electric can deliver a range of up to 700km (WLTP). At a public fast charging station, it only takes around 26 minutes to recharge to 80% of the battery capacity. Customers can also opt for a Grandland Plug-in Hybrid with up to 85km emissions-free range (WLTP), or the Grandland Hybrid with 48-volt technology, both offering further exciting solutions that deliver on driving pleasure while curbing consumption and CO2 emissions. The impressive stance of the new Grandland becomes apparent at the very first glance. The newcomer is confident and robust, measuring 4650mm in length (+173mm compared to its predecessor), 1905mm in width (+64mm) and 1660mm in height (+19mm). Combined with up to 20" alloy wheels and sporting a two-toned floating roof, contrast cladding, and sharp wheel-arch lines, it sits boldly at the top of Opel's SUV portfolio. Grandeur is added by the new Opel 3D Vizor brand face, combined with the illuminated Opel Blitz logo which is made even more prominent using Edge Light Technology. At the rear, a distinctive illuminated lighting signature also makes its production model debut. Fully in line with Opel's Greenovation approach to conserve all resources related to the automobile, the name of the car is no longer displayed by chrome lettering - instead it is centrally embossed in the tailgate. Occupants of the new Grandland are greeted by a warm, engaging ambience. The slightly driver-oriented 16" central display and high centre console generate a sporty feeling. The top of the instrument panel has a beautiful technical appearance, enhanced by an edge light, and is aesthetically divided into two surface finishes. A wide and fully digital cluster and Intelli-HUD head up display provide essential information, allowing the driver to focus on driving pleasure and avoiding the need to take eyes off the road. Selecting Pure Mode further reduces distraction when driving. In typical Opel tradition, frequently used settings such as climate control can be operated intuitively via physical buttons. Opel's ergonomic AGR seats, certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V. (Campaign for Healthy Backs), enjoy an award-winning reputation and the new Grandland continues this long-standing tradition, now adding electric bolsters for even more comfort. The patented Intelli-Seat feature in the front seats, designed to relieve pressure on the tailbone, comes as standard and ensures outstanding comfort even during long journeys. All fabrics in the interior are 100% recycled. The new Grandland further offers an extensive array of driver assistance systems including Automatic Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Adaptation, and In Crash Braking, a system with the purpose of helping avoid secondary collision in case of an accident, all as standard. An optional Opel Intelli-Drive 2.0 system integrates numerous electronic assistants and combines them with Semi-Automatic Lane-Change Assist and Recommended Speed Adaption. Parking is also made easier by front and rear park assist, a rear-view camera with automatic cleaning function and the 360-degree Intelli-Vision camera. A latest-generation Intelli-Lux Pixel Matrix HD system offers over 50,000 elements (51,200 to be precise, with 25,600 on each side) for high-definition light. Oncoming objects are detected by a camera and the Intelli-Lux Pixel Matrix HD light cuts out these objects precisely to deliver a much brighter light, whilst ensuring that other road users are not glared at. New welcome/goodbye animations with graphical projections at the front of the vehicle are featured. With oodles of interior space, the long wheelbase of 2,784mm and steep tailgate emphasise the increased roominess in cabin and trunk; passengers in the rear enjoy 20mm of additional legroom compared to the outgoing Grandland. The rear seats can be folded down 40:20:40 and thus, create a load volume of up to 1,641 litres. Indeed, as a family-oriented vehicle, a strong focus was given on interior versatility. With over 35 litres of interior storage compartments, the goal was not only to package numerous storages but also to find innovative solutions making life easier for customers while improving comfort and wellbeing. The highlight of these clever solutions is the new Opel Pixel Box. With its illuminated translucid glass, the Pixel Box is both visually appealing and highly functional. The wireless smartphone charger is located behind the glass so that devices can be charged while being stored safely. While the Grandland benefits from an electrified powertrain portfolio, it also delivers dynamic and comfortable driving pleasure, made possible by dampers with frequency selective damping technology. Depending on the road surface conditions and driving style, this unique technology enables different damping characteristics for comfortable gliding, no matter the surface, on cobblestones or over a manhole cover. The Grandland reacts even more immediately and directly to any command from the driver and, as is typical for Opel, remains stable when braking, cornering and at high speeds on motorways. The Opel DNA is further emphasised by specific spring, anti-roll bar, steering and ESC tuning. Thanks to its state-of-the-art new platform, innovative new technologies, in combination with numerous design features first seen on the Opel Experimental concept car, the new Grandland sits comfortably at the helm of Opel's SUV portfolio, bringing a new level to Opel's ongoing electrification strategy.

Volkswagen Ireland has announced the introduction of market leading finance deals on its new car range. The 2024 Volkswagen Passenger Cars line-up is now available with PCP rates starting at just 2.9% APR. Meanwhile, hire purchase customers can take advantage of 0% finance rates. The new, highly competitive finance deals will help Volkswagen build on a strong start to 2024 and make buying a new Volkswagen easier than ever. As the Irish leader in battery electric vehicles for three years running, Volkswagen Ireland is spearheading the transition towards full e-mobility. Meanwhile, a strong portfolio of fuel-efficient petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles means there is a Volkswagen to suit every customer’s needs. The product line-up has recently been boosted by the arrival of several new models, including the new T-Cross, ID.7 saloon and next generation Tiguan SUV. The all-electric ID.7 is earning rave reviews thanks to its 615km WLTP* all-electric range, state of the art infotainment and class leading comfort. With an RRP from €56,490 after grants, the ID.7 was named German Car of the Year and 2024 What Car? Safety Award winner. Elsewhere, the iconic Golf celebrates 50 years of driving excellence with the addition of a new 50th anniversary model. Launched in 1974, the Golf is one of the most recognisable names in motoring with more than 37million units sold over five decades. To celebrate the landmark anniversary and the new Golf landing in showrooms soon, an exclusive Golf 50 Edition will be made available. The well-specified, limited-edition model features an illuminated Volkswagen badge, upgraded 18-inch alloys, bespoke Golf 50 scuff plates, metallic paint, tinted rear windows, ArtVelour seats with heating functionality and an upgraded 12.9in infotainment system as standard. From a customer perspective, the Golf 50 Edition comes with €3,300 of additional equipment for an additional €500 versus the standard Golf Style. The newest addition to the Volkswagen portfolio is the Tiguan, which is available to order now, with the ehybrid variant arriving in the coming months.  Priced from €54,250, the next generation Tiguan ehybrid boasts a range of upgrades including a brand-new look, upgraded interior and premium-class features such as the massage function of the ergoActive seats and IQ.LIGHT HD matrix headlights available as optional extras. The Tiguan is available with Volkswagen’s proven TDI engines and has a towing capacity of up to 2000kg (braked 12% incline). The Tiguan ehybrid has an electric range of around 116 km WLTP* thanks to its 19.7 kWh capacity battery. Prices start from €54,250, with the combination of an 85kW electric drive motor and the new 1.5-litre TSI engine (110 kW). The plug-in hybrid model is also impressive on long journeys with low consumption values and combined ranges of more than 900 km. On the battery electric vehicle front, Volkswagen continues to lead the way with 0% finance on the ID.3 and APR PCP rates starting from 2.9% on other ID. models, including the ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7. New additions to the ID. Family are on the way, including the all-new ID.7 Pro S which features an upgraded 86kWh battery and an official WLTP range of 700km** on a single charge. Later this year, the sporty ID.7 GTX will become the latest addition to the ID. Range. We will have more details on both these models in the coming weeks. Volkswagen Ireland Director, Alan Bateson, said: “It is an exciting time for Volkswagen Passenger Cars here in Ireland. We have our best product line-up in years and are offering ultra-competitive finance packages to bring Volkswagen ownership to as many people as possible. Whether you want to go fully electric, hybrid, or drive one of our fuel-efficient petrol or diesel-powered vehicles, our 2024 line-up ensures there is a Volkswagen for everyone.”

One of Ireland’s most loved SUV’s, the Škoda Kodiaq, has just had second generation updates and we travelled to Spain for a first test drive. To us, it still feels recent, but believe it or not, Škoda launched the first generation Kodiaq in 2016 and a whopping 866,100 have been delivered to customers in 60 markets worldwide since. The Irish market has been particularly lucrative for the brand with 11,332 sold since its arrival to us back in 2017 and most recently in 2023, it was Ireland’s top selling 7-seater! Now for 2024 we have a Kodiaq sporting even larger proportions with striking design cues no doubt inspired by the stunning Enyaq. Take the nose for example, a stylish new front grille featuring a horizontal light strip sits proudly between the latest LED matrix beam headlights. In fact, there doesn’t really appear to be a bad angle of the new Kodiaq with a sharp profile that’s complimented further by 20-inch aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels. The modern rear end features new LED lights and what looks like a light bar going from side to side. On closer inspection it is in fact, not lit, and just a visual design trick to accentuate the width giving better road presence. Buyers will have a choice from nine colours, seven of which have metallic finishes, including the new Bronx Gold, which was to become our choice in test vehicle. Features After receiving the keys to our test car I was quick to open the door only to reveal a totally new cockpit that blends the best of both Enyaq and the new Superb into a delightful package. Noticeable immediately is the now free-standing 13-inch screen along with a secondary dials screen directly in the drivers eye line. Our test vehicle also had the optional head-up display projecting vitals such as speed onto the windscreen. The centre console has been decluttered to make more arm and storage space and in doing so, Škoda have repositioned the automatic gear selector onto the steering column. What if you want a manual we hear you ask? Well the new Kodiak will only be available in DSG automatic because thats predominately what sold most, around the world. Another cool feature is the three rotary controls positioned below the infotainment screen allowing you to quickly access various vehicle and infotainment functions all within easy reach and without having to scroll through endless menus! Below this, sits a ventilated phone holder, which can wirelessly charge two smartphones at the same time. The seats are super comfortable also with massive leg and headroom for all occupants. By adopting the Design Selections already known from the Enyaq family, you get a lovely blend of coordinated colours and high quality materials. Our vehicle was wearing cognac leather with matching stitching and classy dark chrome finishing on the plastic trim surrounds. Power So getting down to the business end, whats under the bonnet and tell me Škoda didn’t do away with their trusty diesel offerings? Of course they didn’t! Irish buyers will have a choice of a diesel powered 150hp or 204hp 2.0 TDI engine that can also run on HVO. If this isn’t for you there is a very impressive Kodiaq iV fitted with a petrol plug-in hybrid that can travel more than 100 kilometres on electric power and produce 204hp combined. On top of this, there is a 1.5 TSI with 150 hp featuring mild-hybrid technology for the first time or you could have the flagship petrol 2.0 TSI with 204hp. The high horsepower petrol and diesel offerings also feature all wheel drive. Costs Pricing for the Irish market kicks off with the Selection range from €54,380 rising to €61,870. If you fancy additional spec such as the wonderful leather suite interior and privacy glass then you will have to step up to the Selection Plus range with pricing starting at €60,995 and rising to €67,270. We were informed a Sportline version is also on the horizon later this year. All 27 of the Irish Škoda dealer network are no doubt, on standby ready to offer test drives and take you through the various options in detail. Safety Like the new Superb and Octavia the Kodiaq features a vast array of safety systems including nano radar sensors. Positioned in the right and left corners of the front apron and rear bumper, they aid the assistance systems scan for the unexpected to keep you and your occupants safe. Turn Assist, Collision Avoidance Assist, Crossroad Assist and Exit Warning are constantly acting as secondary eyes on every journey. Summary The outgoing Kodiaq was arguably one of our favourite vehicles to test drive since its arrival to Ireland. The second generation was always going to have big shoes to fill but such is the progress of Škoda as a brand, we were never in doubt the new Kodiaq was going to be anything other than fantastic to drive. Our 2.0 TDI felt potent from the off in Barcelona as we travelled north towards Girona. The smooth DSG gearbox seamlessly takes gears allowing you to waft along in complete comfort. The on board entertainment is good, easy to use, but the navigation is a little hit and miss letting us down on numerous occasions. Is this a major issue? Not really, because you can use your preferred navigation through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and no doubt in time, Škoda will send an update to rectify the navigation gremlins. On arrival to Girona we took on countryside loop only this time behind the wheel of the Plug-In Hybrid “Kodiak iV” which will hit Irish shores in quarter three this year. With a 25 kWh Lithium-ion battery we were surprised how little it brought in the petrol engine. Admittedly the test route provided was rather flat but only on an increase in elevation or Sport mode activation, did it deem necessary to fire up the combustion engine. If buyers have access to a home charger and have a daily commute of less than 100 kilometres, this could make for a very frugal machine to live with! Overall our time with both vehicles was limited but enough to get a taste for what will no doubt be another incredibly popular offering for Škoda here in Ireland. With vast cabin space, five or seven seat options along with an array of engine choices, it will surely go on to reclaim many of the awards its predecessor was so rightly honoured with in years past. Soon we will have one on home soil to see how it performs over the duration of a week. Watch this space!

Citroën has unveiled the first images of all-new C3 Aircross, which shares the same design identity as new C3 announced in October of last year. With plenty of space and onboard comfort, as well as the ambition to shake up the market with a very competitive pricing positioning - both models are based on the same Smart Car platform allowing powertrain flexibility and cost efficiency. All-new C3 Aircross undergoes a radical change and enters a new era by adopting a more assertive character, more interior space with up to 7 seats, an expanded range of powertrain options all while boasting the same level of onboard comfort. A modern and coherent design, all-new C3 Aircross incorporates Citroën's new design language, heavily inspired by the Oli concept and brought to life by new C3. All-new C3 Aircross undergoes a radical change in attitude, transitioning from a model emphasizing roundness and kindness to one that, without being aggressive, exudes a more angular, muscular, and assertive style. C3 Aircross embraces its SUV typology with a high and horizontal hood, proudly displaying the new Citroën logo and adopting the characteristic lighting signature in 3 luminous segments. Its style also highlights quality and attention to detail by incorporating the chevron pattern on certain elements. Citroën will offer a two-tone roof on the model, enlivening C3 Aircross with punctual colour accents such as the additional colour clips present on the bumper and quarter panel, which the owner can change as they wish. All-new C3 Aircross now reaches a length of 4.39 meters, providing greater interior space. The balanced proportions of its silhouette hint at a very long wheelbase, the largest in its category - this allows for more legroom for rear passengers. The quarter panel provides a dynamic and vertical rear end, offering the ability to comfortably accommodate up to 7 people onboard with two foldable seats in the third row. C3 Aircross is full of tricks to make family life easier by offering great flexibility making it a truly easy-to-live-with SUV. This new B SUV shares the Smart Car platform with the C3 hatchback, introduced by Citroën and designed from the start to optimally accommodate an electric offering. Thus, C3 Aircross will offer for the first time alongside a traditional combustion engine a hybrid option that facilitates access to electrification, showing the true adaptability of this type of silhouette. And to go further, an affordable all-electric powertrain produced in Europe will also be available. The SUV silhouette of the C3 Aircross promises a raised ground clearance, more reassuring in driving, facilitating onboard access and favouring a high driving position that allows for better visibility. These elements contribute to the feeling of well-being on board, another signature of the C3 Aircross. Like the C3, the new C3 Aircross will highlight comfort and will have all the equipment and technologies expected by customers in this market. In mid-2024, Citroën will fully unveil the new C3 Aircross, which has been completely reinvented to meet the expectations of families. It has a completely new dimension with powerful, assertive styling, more space on board and modularity with the capacity to accommodate up to 7 people, electrified offerings from hybrid to 100% electric, and comfort and connectivity on board. Due to arrive in Ireland Q4 of 2024, more information about the all-new C3 Aircross will be shared closer to launch.

The AA Ireland’s latest monthly Fuel Price Survey has shown a surge in petrol and diesel prices over the last few weeks after a decrease was reported in March. These are the highest prices reported in 2024 with almost a 13c increase in petrol and 9c increase in diesel since January 2024. Jennifer Kilduff, Head of Marketing & PR for the AA (Ireland), said “Unfortunately, and as expected the decrease we saw in March, underpinned by the border counties reducing their prices was short-lived. The first re-instatement of excise duty which came into effect on April 1st has now been reflected in pump prices reported across most of the country in April.” Excise is a duty that is added to the sale of mineral oils, cigarettes and alcohol. It is a fixed amount which is charged per litre and does not change as the price fluctuates, retailers have no choice but to add this on at the pump as it is a legal requirement. Ms Kilduff said, “The government will fully restore the excise duty rates on the 1st of August with a final increase of 4c on petrol and 3c on Diesel, a carbon tax is also expected in October so we expect prices at the pump to increase further later in the year as a result”. Electric Vehicle fuelling costs this month remains relatively steady with a marginal increase of €1 per year meaning EV owners can expect to pay circa €926 per year compared to last month's €925 to cover the national average of 17,000km per year. Kilduff added “With rising costs of fuel and the cost of living in general, it is important that customers consider all options when deciding to keep or change their current vehicle. Whether driving an internal combustion engine or an EV, drivers should review their driving habits, reducing speed, keeping their vehicle well maintained and regularly checking tyre pressure are just some things motorists can do to save on fuel. An experiment carried out by The AA showed that by reducing your speed on the motorway from 120km/h to 100km/h could reduce your fuel bill by up to 29%. This would not only save money but more importantly, reducing speed could save lives.”

The latest FTMTA Statistics Service Report for March 2024 shows a reduced level of activity in the farm machinery sector in Ireland with new tractor and telescopic loader registrations continuing on a downward trend. The numbers of imported used tractors and machines, registered for the first time in Ireland, decreased compared with the same month of March 2023. Tractors The March 2024 new tractor market at 216 units was 13% lower compared with the same month in 2023. The year-to-date figures are 8% lower than the same period in 2023 with 878 new tractors registered in the Republic of Ireland in March 2023, compared with 959 units in 2023. County Cork continues to deliver the highest number of new tractor registrations at 129 units for the year-to-date, while Tipperary is ranked in second place with 81 units followed by Meath at 50 units. The most popular power band moves to the 161 to 200hp category, which for March 2024 accounted for 21.7% of all new tractor registrations. Tractors in the power band lower than 100hp now account for 10.65% of all new tractor registrations, slightly higher than for the same month in 2023. The over 200hp category now accounts for 12.03% of all new tractors. The monthly average tractor horsepower figure for March 2024 was 145hp. The FTMTA data shows that 245 imported used tractors were first-time registered in Ireland in March 2024, 59 units less than in February 2023. For the year to date, 672 used tractors were imported and registered for the first time, an 18.9% decline. Telescopic Loaders The Irish market for new telescopic loaders reported a marginal decline in March 2024 at 57 units. The latest FTMTA data shows new telescopic registrations decreased in March 2024 by 1.7% compared with March 2023 when 58 units were registered. The year-to-date market shows a 3.7% increase in registrations. There were 53 imported used telescopic loaders registered in March 2024. Wheeled Loaders The Irish wheeled loader market recorded a lower number of new registrations in March 2024 at 16 units, compared with February 2023, while the year-to-date market decreased by 31.25%. The market dominance of the smaller Chinese manufactured machines at the lower price and power end of the market for farmers remains strong and now accounts for over 59% of the new wheeled loader registrations in Ireland. There were 7 imported used wheeled loaders registered in March 2024. Backhoe Loaders The Irish backhoe loader market improved again in March 2024 compared with March 2023 with 7 new machines, which converts to a 75% increase. There were 5 used backhoe loaders registered in March 2024 in Ireland.

CUPRA is thrilled to announce the nationwide CUPRA ZER0 Limits Event taking is now live and will run until April 30th. This exclusive event invites customers to experience the one of Irelands fastest growing car brands with incredible offers available at your local retailer. During this limited-time event, customers can explore the latest CUPRA models, renowned for their cutting-edge design, performance, and innovative technology. The showrooms nationwide will showcase a lineup of exceptional petrol, diesel, PHEV and electric vehicles. Customers can also avail of incredible ‘Zero Limit’ offers including finance from  0% APR PCP with a €1,000 Deposit Contribution towards your new model APRIL OFFERS CUPRA Born from €229 per month 0% APR PCP Finance including a 3 Year CUPRA Care Pack and a €1,000 Deposit Contribution CUPRA Formentor from €269 per month 0% APR PCP Finance including a 3 Year CUPRA Care Pack and a €1,000 Deposit Contribution CUPRA Ateca from €359 per month 0% PCP Finance starting including a 3 Year CUPRA Care Pack and a €1,000 Deposit Contribution CUPRA Leon from €309 per month 2.9% PCP Finance including a 3 Year CUPRA Care Pack and a €1,000 Deposit Contribution *€1,000 deposit contribution available only on Volkswagen Financial Services Ireland Limited finance contracts. Offer available on new retail sales ordered from now until 30th April 2024 and registered before 31st August 2024. Terms and conditions apply. See cupraofficial.ie. These incredible offers make owning a CUPRA more accessible than ever, providing customers with the opportunity to drive home their dream car with flexibility on their purchase options. The CUPRA ZER0 Limits Event is designed to provide an immersive and informative experience for visitors. Our knowledgeable CUPRA Masters will be on hand to answer questions, offer test drives, and guide customers through the features and benefits of each CUPRA model. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore the world of CUPRA. Visit your local CUPRA retailer from until the 30th of April for the CUPRA ZER0 Limits Event, where performance meets perfection. Find your local retailer www.cupraofficial.ie

Good news for Alfa Romeo fans as the brand recently presented the new MILANO to the international media in Milan, at the historic headquarters of the Automobile Club Milano. This launch was designed to reinforce the visceral and proud partnership with the city where Alfa Romeo was founded in 1910.  The new Milano is sporty at heart, compact in size and wearing Italian styling at first sight. This new compact car brings Alfa Romeo sportiness back into the largest segment in the European market and is a symbolic ‘welcome back’ to fans of the Giulietta and Mito, while attracting a new generation of Alfisti enthusiasts. In a segment populated by sporty versions derived from generalist models, MILANO is proposed as a cool and unique offering, combining captivating style with the most advanced technology in terms of comfort, connectivity, and driving dynamics. A hybrid option “IBRIDA” is available which comes in a 136-hp 48-V Hybrid VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo) and is available in a front wheel drive and a Q4 all-wheel drive variant with automated rear-wheel drive axle management, a first in the segment.  MILANO IBRIDA offers a smooth driving experience in urban driving using electric mode more than 50% of the time, with electric driving also possible on out-of-town roads under certain conditions. A full EV “ELETTRICA,” comes in two power variants with 156 hp and a range of up to 410 km WLTP, as well as the sportier 240-hp VELOCE, the epitome of Alfa Romeo's sporting DNA.  The 54-kWh battery offers high energy density and a very good ratio of rated to usable energy. With its high power, torque, and specific calibration of the electric powertrain, the new compact sports car offers uncompromising driving pleasure with segment-leading dynamics.  Charging the batteries from 10 to 80% takes less than 30 minutes when using a 100-kW DC fast charging station. Styling The new MILANO with a length of 4.17 meters, width of 1.78 m and height of 1.5 m, encapsulates the distinctive essence of Alfa Romeo Centro Stile's original and contemporary "Made in Italy" design ethos. This is expressed through balanced proportions, purity of lines and attention to the quality of the surfaces. The proportions are set out with stylish features relating to tradition, such as the limited overhangs, the muscular wheel arches, and the iconic ‘truncated tail,’ which is a a reference to the legendary Giulia TZ. Alfa Romeo MILANO boasts a strong identity, made up of a limited number of features that include the legendary shield, in the Leggenda and Progresso variants, perhaps the most famous and recognisable signature in the automotive world. A contribution is made to its powerful personality by the bold ‘look’ of the front, with ‘3+3’ and adaptive Full LED Matrix headlights. Interior The same inspiration of pure sportiness can be found inside the car, where the standout features are the Italian attention to every detail, the use of the finest materials and the placement of all the controls within the driver’s reach with features including: A compact steering wheel, to adapt to all driving styles. Historical ‘telescope’ design instrument panel with fully digital 10.25” TFT screen. Customisable 10.25” touchscreen system with widgets and interactive graphic components. Air conditioning vents in the shape of a quadrifoglio (four-leaf clover) Sabelt sports seats. There is meticulous attention to detail to driver and passenger comfort with premium upholstery boasting a sporty character and distinctly Italian quality. Despite its compact size, MILANO boasts the largest boot in its class (BEV) with a load capacity up to 400 litres, accessible with handsfree technology. A convenient cable organiser storage compartment is located under the bonnet, as a handy place to store the charging cable. To increase the comfort even further, MILANO offers a series of driver assistance features, with level 2 autonomous driving. Together with the 360° parking sensors, the 180° rear camera monitors the surrounding area, for an innovative and practical semi-autonomous parking system.  Finally, MILANO can also include proximity access technology, to open and close your car quickly without having to use a key fob. What will it be like to drive? Building on the lowest weight in the segment and optimal mass distribution, MILANO enters the world of electric cars with true Alfa Romeo sprint.  Spearheaded by the same team behind the development of the acclaimed Giulia GTA at the Balocco testing centre in Vercelli province, MILANO is engineered to deliver best-in-class road-holding capabilities, made possible by specific technical solutions in the VELOCE version which includes: The segment's most direct steering (14.6) Lowered sports suspension by 25 mm Enhanced anti-roll bars Oversized front discs with four-piston monobloc calipers A Torsen differential for supreme traction. High performance 20-inch tyres MILANO also offers the Alfa D.N.A. system, with "Dynamic" mode delivering peak performance, "Natural" mode balancing performance and comfort for daily driving, and "Advanced Efficiency" mode maximising energy efficiency without sacrificing driving pleasure. The Q4 hybrid variant introduces a fourth mode, Q4, optimised for low-grip conditions. The new Alfa Romeo Milano will be available in Ireland in late 2024 with prices and specifications being announced closer to launch.

In an effort to make our roads a safer place, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has welcomed the news that An Garda Siochana has instructed all uniformed gardaí to do a mandatory 30 minutes of road safety policing per shift. The move comes against a backdrop of rising fatalities on Irish roads. There have been 63 fatalities on Irish roads this year, an increase of 15 on 2023. Liz O’Donnell, chairperson of the RSA, said: “Enforcement is key to tackling this problem and I warmly welcome this response to my call for more Gardai deployed immediately to road safety. This will result in increased Garda visibility on our roads and acts as a deterrent to dangerous drivers. This deployment can save lives.” “Speeding and acceptability of speeding have been consistently high since 2020 and have yet to return to pre-Covid levels, while the social acceptability of drink-driving has also increased post-Covid. There needs to be a significant step change in order to get back to normal levels of compliance and I look forward to discussing these matters with An Taoiseach and senior ministers on Monday of next week.” An Garda Siochana has also announced plans to increase by 75 the number of members allocated to its roads policing unit by the end of the year. Working with An Garda Siochana, the Department of Transport and other key stakeholders, the RSA, through its education initiatives, research programmes and campaign initiatives, is at the forefront of efforts to tackle the problem. In recent months the RSA has intensified its activities through increased high-impact campaigns; broadened its audience reach through new social media activities; rolled out road safety innovation initiatives; revised our education programme to reach more second level and college students; and delivered ground-breaking research that addresses key road safety issues.