March 2021

typical morning rush hour. “Ordinarily, our data would show that November to March is when the greatest number of accidents occur – when the days are shorter, there’s more rainfall and, at times, wintery conditions can make the roads treacherous. “However, the result of two national lockdowns, in addition to a change in vehicle congestion levels during this period, means our data will paint a very different picture this winter.” For more information visit: https://www.ax - uk.com/accidentaftercare 28 January: Worst since 1984: UK car production down 29.3% in 2020 COVID-19 was one of the main reasons for car production in Britain falling by 29.3% to 920,928 units in 2020, making it the worst year for UK car-making since 1984, according to figures from the SMMT. Output for December was down 2.3% to 71,403, with component supply issues resulting from border closures forcing some carmakers to slam the brakes even harder in the run-up to Christmas. Production for overseas buyers fell 29.1% to 749,038, while output for the UK also fell, down 30.4% to 171,890. Despite the gloom, combined production of battery electric (BEV), plug-hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid vehicles (HEV) rose to 18.8% of all cars made in Britain, up from 14.8% a year before. BEVs went up to a 4.5% share, from 3.4% in 2019. In total, the UK produced 172,857 alternatively fuelled vehicles, with 79.6% of these exported. SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes said: “These figures, the worst in a generation, reflect the devastating impact of the pandemic on UK automotive production, with COVID-19 lockdowns depressing demand, shuttering plants and threatening lives and livelihoods. The industry faces 2021 with more optimism, however, with a vaccine being rolled out and clarity on how we trade with Europe, which remains by far our biggest market. “The immediate challenge is to adapt to the new conditions, to overcome the additional customs burdens and regain our global competitiveness while delivering zero emission transport. We will continue to work with government to attract investment in battery production and supply chain transformation as we transition to smart and sustainable mobility, supporting jobs and driving economic growth nationwide.” 5 February: Government gives Bounce Back Loan “breathing space” Garages that have taken out loans under the government’s Coronavirus business Bounce Back Loan Scheme can now spread the repayment period, via “pay-as-you- grow” measures announced by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak. The new option means businesses can now lengthen loans taken out under the Bounce Back Loan Scheme from six to 10 years. According to the Chancellor, the change means businesses will be given “breathing space” to get back on their feet.” Around 1.4 million small businesses across the spectrum have taken up the loans, and between them they have so far borrowed around £45 billion. The scheme enables firms to borrow between £2,000 and up to 25% of their turnover, up to a maximum of £50,000. The loans are guaranteed by government with no fees to pay or interest for the first year. After one year, interest is 2.5% per year. The scheme is open until 31 March. As well as extending the repayment period, under the new rules, businesses will be able to make interest-only repayments for six months, something they will be able to do three times during the repayment. They will also be able to suspend repayments entirely for up to six months. Describing the loans as enabling companies to "pay-as-you-grow", The Chancellor said they have been made more flexible to help businesses through uncertain times: "Businesses are continuing to feel the impact of extended disruption from COVID-19, and we're determined to give them the backing and confidence they need to get through the pandemic. That's why we're giving Bounce Back Loan borrowers breathing space to get back on their feet, through greater flexibility and time to repay their loans on their terms." Banks will be contacting businesses that took out the loans to detail the new possibilities offered by the increased flexibility. 44 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2021 BUSINESS www.aftermarketonline.net The sector has come a long way since the first national lockdown ”