Why Autodata Training is a Game-Changer for Automotive Professionals
The automotive industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Advancements in vehicle technology, the rise of electric and hybrid vehicles, and increasingly complex diagnostic systems require continuous learning for professionals to remain competitive. Today, automotive technicians, dealership specialists, and independent repair experts must keep up with modern repair methods, new tools, and digital diagnostics. However, one of the biggest challenges the industry faces is a lack of up-to-date skills. Automotive professionals often struggle to access high-quality training tailored to their needs while managing their busy schedules. That’s where Autodata Training, now available within Solera University, comes in. Autodata Training is designed to equip professionals with the latest knowledge and hands-on skills in vehicle diagnostics and repair. Whether you’re looking to specialize in hybrid and EV servicing, master electrical diagnostics, or enhance your overall expertise, this platform offers structured courses that fit your schedule. Best of all, to help professionals get started, Autodata Training offers 10 free training videos for a one-month trial. Why Choose Autodata Training? Comprehensive Video Library With 151 expert-led training videos structured into 34 specialized courses across six key automotive themes, Autodata Training provides an extensive curriculum. The content is designed to be practical, covering foundational concepts and advanced techniques. Topics include: Hybrid & EV Servicing – Essential skills to work safely and efficiently with electric and hybrid vehicles. Electrical Diagnostics – Step-by-step troubleshooting techniques for complex electrical issues. HVAC Fundamentals – Understanding heating, ventilation, and air conditioning repair. Chassis & Driver Assistance Systems – Detailed guidance on suspension, steering, and ADAS calibrations. Diagnostics & Servicing – Best practices for identifying and fixing common and advanced vehicle faults. Each course is crafted to provide real-world solutions, ensuring technicians gain applicable skills that can be implemented immediately in their workshops. Flexible and Accessible Learning One of the standout features of Autodata Training is its on-demand accessibility. Courses are designed to fit into professionals’ schedules, allowing them to learn at their own pace, anytime and anywhere. Since Autodata Training is integrated into Solera University, existing Solera users can seamlessly access the courses. Whether you’re an Audatex user or want to be part of the Solera ecosystem, navigation is simple. Users can jump from the Audatex platform to Autodata Training through a dedicated banner and explore the available courses in an intuitive format. For those who want to try the platform before committing, a one-month free trial grants access to 10 selected training videos. After the trial, courses are available on a pay-as-you-go basis, making it affordable and accessible for both individuals and businesses. Gamified Learning for Maximum Engagement Training doesn’t have to be boring! To enhance engagement and ensure better knowledge retention, Autodata Training incorporates gamification into the learning journey. Users can: Earn badges for completing courses. Track their progress through interactive dashboards. Engage in immersive learning experiences that make acquiring new skills more rewarding. This approach boosts motivation, making it easier for individuals and teams to stay committed to their learning paths. We encourage learners to showcase their earned badges on social media to celebrate their achievements and enhance their professional credibility. Certifications to Boost Your Career Earning recognized certifications is crucial for career advancement and business credibility. Autodata Training offers downloadable certificates upon course completion. These certifications not only validate expertise but also improve job prospects and workshop reputations. Users can access their certificates in two ways: Directly from the course page by clicking “Download Certificate.” From the ‘My Activities’ section within Solera University, where completed courses are stored. These certifications help professionals stand out in the job market, gain client trust, and showcase their commitment to excellence in vehicle repair. Pricing & Accessibility Autodata Training is structured to offer flexible and cost-effective learning. The pricing model is based on a per-video fee, starting at £3 per video, with full-course prices ranging between £3 and £27, depending on the number of videos included. This affordability ensures that workshops, independent technicians, and dealership professionals can access high-quality training without a significant financial commitment. Additionally, with one-month access for purchased courses, learners can revisit lessons as needed, reinforcing their skills before moving on to the next level. How to Get Started Getting started with Autodata Training is easy. Follow these simple steps: Sign up or log in to Solera University via the Audatex platform. Navigate to Autodata Training through the dedicated banner. Explore the catalog of 151 training videos grouped into 34 courses. Try 10 free training videos for one month. Purchase additional courses based on your specific needs. Earn badges and certifications to boost your career! Conclusion The automotive industry is changing rapidly, and continuous learning is essential to staying ahead. Autodata Training, now part of Solera University, provides cutting-edge courses, flexible learning options, and recognized certifications that help automotive professionals sharpen their skills and grow their careers. With expert-led video content, gamified engagement, and affordable pricing, this platform is designed to meet the needs of today’s technicians and repair specialists. Take advantage of the one-month free trial today and experience the future of automotive training! ACCESS NOW
Analysis of the Most Stolen Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the UK: Key Insights from Recent Study
A comprehensive study conducted by cap hpi, the leading provider of automotive data solutions, has identified the electric vehicles (EVs) most susceptible to theft in the UK. While overall EV thefts remain relatively uncommon, certain models continue to be targeted more frequently by criminals. Key Findings on EV Theft in the UK The analysis, which examined over 864,000 EVs, revealed that just 0.1% of the nation’s electric vehicles were stolen last year, compared to 0.2% of all vehicles. Despite the overall low incidence rate, specific EV models are more vulnerable to theft. The Kia E-Niro Electric Estate ranks as the most commonly stolen EV, followed by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric Hatchback and the Kia EV6 Electric Estate. Other models in the top 10 include the Volkswagen Golf Electric and Jaguar I-Pace. These findings, based on thefts per 100,000 vehicles, provide valuable insights into which models are most at risk. Regional Trends in EV Theft The study also identified key geographical hotspots for EV thefts. In addition to Greater London, which recorded the highest incidence of EV thefts, the West Midlands saw the second-highest number (104), followed by the East of England (59), North West (56), and South East (43). Reasons Behind the Targeting of Certain EV Models Jon Clay, Identification Director at cap hpi, highlighted that while EV theft remains relatively rare, vigilance is essential. Criminals are continually adapting to evolving security technologies, and as the EV market expands, it is crucial for trade professionals to proactively advise on enhanced security measures to safeguard against potential theft. Recommendations for EV Dealers and Trade Professionals To mitigate the risk of EV theft, dealers and trade professionals are encouraged to implement the following practices: Advise customers to incorporate supplementary security features, such as steering wheel locks and tracking systems. Ensure built-in security systems, including digital keys and remote tracking, are activated and fully functional. Encourage parking in well-lit, secure locations to further reduce the likelihood of theft. The Importance of a cap hpi Check for Trade Professionals For trade professionals acquiring used EVs, conducting a cap hpi Check is imperative. This essential tool offers critical insights into a vehicle’s history, including whether it has been stolen or if there are discrepancies, such as odometer tampering. Given that one in three used cars has a concealed history, a cap hpi Check ensures that businesses make informed purchasing decisions and helps mitigate the risk of inadvertently trading in stolen vehicles. Conclusion Although EV theft remains a relatively rare occurrence in the UK, certain models are more frequently targeted. By staying informed, advising clients on robust security measures, and utilising cap hpi Check when sourcing used EVs, trade professionals can safeguard their operations and mitigate the risk of stolen vehicle transactions.
Combatting Fraud: The Recovery of Stolen Finance Vehicles
The recovery of stolen finance vehicles is crucial in safeguarding both buyers and the integrity of the vehicle market. The National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) plays a leading role in this endeavour, working closely with cap hpi to track and recover stolen vehicles still under finance. Together, they leverage advanced technology and precise data to combat vehicle fraud and protect businesses and consumers alike. NaVCIS and cap hpi: Partners in Recovering Stolen Finance Vehicles NaVCIS, a UK-based police unit specialising in vehicle crime, focuses on recovering stolen finance vehicles that have been trafficked across borders, particularly to Eastern Europe. Countries such as Bulgaria and Romania are common destinations where criminals often re-register stolen UK vehicles. The Finance and Leasing Association (FLA) provides financial support for NaVCIS’ work in tackling vehicle crime. Criminals often acquire vehicles through fraudulent finance agreements, using fake identities or stolen credentials. Once in possession of the vehicles, they alter the number plates and transport them abroad. Upon arrival at their destination, the vehicles are re-registered, usually with the intent to sell them. NaVCIS and cap hpi collaborate to provide the necessary tools and data to swiftly identify and recover these stolen vehicles before they can enter the market. The Role of cap hpi in Recovering Stolen Finance Vehicles cap hpi plays a pivotal role in the recovery process by supplying real-time, comprehensive vehicle data. Their extensive database of vehicle information, which includes details on outstanding finance and theft status, supports law enforcement agencies across Europe in quickly identifying stolen vehicles. This data empowers local authorities to take prompt action, ensuring that stolen vehicles are recovered and returned to their rightful owners. Sharon Naughton, Head of NaVCIS, highlighted the importance of cap hpi’s contribution: “cap hpi helps us identify stolen finance vehicles efficiently. Their data enables us to act quickly, ensuring that stolen vehicles are returned to the finance companies.” cap hpi’s Data: A Key Asset in the Recovery of Stolen Finance Vehicles Across Europe The collaboration between NaVCIS and cap hpi has led to significant success in recovering stolen finance vehicles. cap hpi’s data has contributed to the recovery of nearly 80% of stolen finance vehicles flagged during checks. In Bulgaria, cap hpi identified 14 stolen vehicles, resulting in the recovery of seven, with additional vehicles discovered in Romania during the re-registration process. This partnership ensures that stolen vehicles are returned to UK finance companies, preventing criminals from profiting from these illicit transactions. cap hpi’s real-time data not only aids in vehicle recovery but also plays a vital role in protecting the integrity of the used car market. Protect Your Business: Always Run a cap hpi Check Before purchasing or selling a used vehicle, it is essential to conduct an cap hpi check. This vital step confirms that the vehicle is free of hidden issues, such as outstanding finance or a stolen status, providing peace of mind to both dealers and consumers.
Shifting Public Attitudes Towards Autonomous Vehicles: Key Findings from Driverless Cars Research UK
The future of autonomous vehicles is becoming more tangible as public opinions in the UK shift in favour of driverless technology. A recent study, Driverless Cars Research UK, commissioned by CAP HPI— a leader in vehicle history checks and valuations—surveyed over 2,000 UK adults to explore their views on self-driving cars. The findings reveal that trust in driverless cars is gradually increasing, but regional, gender, and age differences play a significant role in shaping the public’s acceptance of this emerging technology. Key Findings from the Study The study uncovered some noteworthy trends that highlight how the UK public is warming to the idea of autonomous vehicles. Trust Across DemographicsMen are more trusting of driverless cars than women, with 28% of men expressing confidence in the technology, compared to only 16% of women. Age also plays a crucial role. Younger generations, particularly 18-26-year-olds, are significantly more comfortable with autonomous vehicles, with 33% expressing trust in self-driving cars. In contrast, just 17% of people aged 55-64 are confident in the technology, and those over 65 are the least trusting, with only 12% willing to embrace autonomous vehicles. Regional Variations in TrustTrust in driverless technology varies across the UK, with residents of London being the most open to the idea at 21%, followed by the East of England (19%) and the West Midlands (18%). Meanwhile, Wales lags behind, with only 9% of people expressing confidence in self-driving cars. Scots are more optimistic, with 18% indicating comfort with the idea of autonomous vehicles. Public Perception of Road SafetyWhile there is growing interest in autonomous technology, road safety remains a major concern. Only 15% of respondents believe that driverless cars will make roads safer. On the other hand, 22% feel that road safety will remain unchanged with the advent of autonomous vehicles. Despite these concerns, 24% of people expressed excitement about the technology, with men (30%) showing more enthusiasm compared to women (18%). Will the Public Embrace Autonomous Vehicles? Interest in self-driving cars is on the rise, with 25% of men considering purchasing a self-driving car that could allow them to perform other tasks, such as reading or attending meetings while travelling. However, women are less inclined to embrace this idea, with only 12% showing similar interest. The Rise of Semi-Autonomous Features Interestingly, over 40% of UK adults are already using vehicles equipped with semi-autonomous features like lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Men are more likely to drive cars with these features (43%) compared to women (40%). Additionally, 21% of men use these features regularly, while only 6% of women do the same. Concerns About Autonomous Technology While trust in autonomous vehicles is growing, significant concerns still remain. The primary worry for 57% of respondents is the loss of control in a driverless car, with other concerns including the state of the roads (38%), technology reliability (35%), and the potential for accidents (41%). Many also worry about how autonomous cars will interact with one another on the road and how human drivers will behave around them. Despite these concerns, 43% of respondents indicated they had no fears about losing control, while 35% expressed confidence in the technology itself. What’s Next for Driverless Cars in the UK? The results of Driverless Cars Research UK show that public opinion is shifting toward greater comfort with autonomous vehicles. However, only 8% of people believe that manufacturers have done enough research to prove that driverless cars are safe. Despite this, the future of autonomous vehicles in the UK remains promising. In May 2024, the UK government passed the Automated Vehicles Act (AV Act), which provides the legal framework for the operation of self-driving cars on UK roads. This legislation includes safety standards, data security measures, and insurance requirements, with the potential for fully autonomous vehicles on UK roads by 2026. According to Matt Freeman, Managing Consultant at CAP HPI, “Although we’re not there yet, Driverless Cars Research UK shows that public acceptance of autonomous vehicles is on the rise. The legal framework is already in place, and we could see fully self-driving cars on UK roads in the next two years. The UK government is supporting autonomous vehicle development through trials and pilot projects aimed at reducing human error, which causes 88% of road accidents.” Conclusion: The Future of Autonomous Vehicles As self-driving technology advances, the integration of autonomous vehicles into everyday life is becoming more likely. The increasing use of semi-autonomous features such as lane assist and emergency braking demonstrates how close full autonomy is to becoming a reality. While public opinions vary, the growing trust and excitement surrounding driverless cars indicate a significant shift toward acceptance. As the UK moves toward fully autonomous vehicles, Driverless Cars Research UK shows a promising future for self-driving technology. With legislation in place and continued development, the dream of safer, more efficient roads could soon become a reality. For those interested in staying informed about vehicle history checks, valuations, and autonomous technology, visit CAP HPI for the latest updates.
Best Value Used SUVs and 4x4s Under £11,000: CAP HPI’s Top Picks
When searching for an affordable yet reliable SUV or 4×4, many drivers opt for used models that provide strong performance without straining their budget. CAP HPI, the leading experts in automotive data and valuations, have identified the best used vehicles under £11,000 that offer exceptional value and performance. Top Used SUVs and 4x4s Under £11,000 CAP HPI’s research focused on 3-year-old vehicles with approximately 60,000 miles. Based on this, here are the top value SUVs and 4x4s: Dacia Duster 1.5 Blue dCi Comfort 5dr 4×4 – £9,925 Known for its affordability and reliable 4×4 capabilities, the Dacia Duster stands out as the top value pick under £10,000. Suzuki Ignis 1.2 Dualjet Hybrid SZ5 ALLGRIP 5dr – £10,250A compact and fuel-efficient hybrid with Suzuki’s ALLGRIP system, perfect for handling a variety of road conditions while offering impressive economy. Dacia Duster 1.3 TCe 150 Prestige 5dr 4×4 – £10,550A more powerful option from Dacia, offering excellent performance, all-wheel drive, and great value for money. Subaru XV 1.6i SE 5dr Lineartronic – £10,850A reliable all-wheel-drive model, the Subaru XV is a great all-rounder for those looking for both comfort and capability. Ssangyong Korando 1.6 D Pioneer 4×4 5dr Auto – £10,950This spacious 4×4 delivers solid diesel performance, making it ideal for families or adventurous drivers looking for a practical vehicle. Best Value by Price Reductions CAP HPI also highlights models with significant year-on-year price drops, offering excellent deals for buyers: Audi E-Tron Sportback 300kW 55 Quattro – 24.9% dropThe only EV on this list, this model offers substantial savings for eco-conscious buyers seeking a luxury electric SUV. Ssangyong Korando 1.6 D Pioneer – 22.3% dropA reliable 4×4 at a reduced price, this model is perfect for those looking for a capable and affordable SUV. Land Rover Range Rover Velar 2.0 P400e – 22.2% dropA luxury hybrid SUV, now more affordable due to its significant price reduction, making it an attractive option for those seeking performance and luxury. Maserati Levante Hybrid GT – 21.9% dropA high-performance luxury SUV with substantial savings, this model offers both prestige and value. Subaru XV 1.6i SE Premium – 21.8% dropKnown for its reliability and versatility, the Subaru XV provides great value for those seeking a dependable SUV. CAP HPI’s Expert Insight Chris Plumb, Senior Valuations Editor at CAP HPI, shares his thoughts: “The SUV market continues to thrive, and there are some fantastic deals to be had on 3-year-old models priced under £11,000. The Dacia Duster, in particular, is an exceptional choice for buyers looking for value, practicality, and a reliable 4×4.” Protect Your Purchase with a CAP HPI Check Before purchasing any used vehicle, it’s essential to conduct a CAP HPI Check. This helps ensure you’re not buying a car with hidden issues, such as outstanding finance, previous accident damage, or a history of being written off. An HPI Check is a simple way to protect yourself from potential scams and ensures you’re making an informed purchase. Conclusion If you’re in the market for an affordable, reliable SUV or 4×4 under £11,000, models like the Dacia Duster, Subaru XV, and Ssangyong Korando offer exceptional value. Remember to use a CAP HPI Check to ensure a safe and secure purchase, and you can drive away with confidence, knowing your new vehicle has a solid history behind it.
How to Protect Your Business from Vehicle Cloning Scams
What is Vehicle Cloning? Vehicle cloning is a criminal activity where offenders steal the identity of a legally registered vehicle by swapping its number plates with those from another car. These cloned plates typically belong to vehicles of the same make, model, and colour, which helps the criminals evade detection by law enforcement systems, such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). This enables them to carry out illegal activities, including using the vehicle for fraud or theft. Why Should You Be Concerned? For businesses purchasing used vehicles, vehicle cloning can have serious consequences. If you unknowingly buy a cloned vehicle, not only could the police seize the car, but you may also lose both the vehicle and the money you spent on it. Moreover, cloned vehicles often have hidden issues, including altered mileage, a history of being written off after accidents, or stolen components, all of which could pose significant safety risks for your operations. How Do Criminals Get Cloned Plates? In the UK, criminals can easily obtain “show plates” online or over the phone, requiring little documentation. These plates, which typically cost around £20, are often dispatched the same day. They are not connected to any legal vehicle and can be used to mislead authorities. Criminals use these plates to clone the identity of legitimate vehicles, allowing them to avoid detection. How to Protect Your Business from Buying a Cloned Car To protect your business from falling victim to a vehicle cloning scam, always carry out a thorough CAP HPI Check before making a purchase. This essential step ensures the vehicle’s registration number, engine number, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) match the official records held by the DVLA. The check can also reveal if the vehicle has been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance—helping you avoid costly mistakes and reputational damage. Key Tips to Avoid Vehicle Cloning Scams Follow these important steps to ensure the vehicle you’re buying is legitimate: Check the Vehicle’s History Verify the vehicle’s history with the DVLA and ensure the vehicle is being sold from the address listed on the V5C/logbook. Inspect the V5C/Logbook Carefully Be on the lookout for counterfeit documents. Hold the V5C up to the light to check for official DVLA watermarks. If the document is missing watermarks, it could be fake. Match VIN and Chassis Numbers Ensure that the VIN and chassis numbers on the car align with official records. Use a CAP HPI Check to cross-check this information with the DVLA. Be Wary of Unrealistic Prices If the car is priced significantly lower than similar vehicles, it may be a red flag. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate potential fraud. Avoid Cash-Only Payments Be cautious if the seller insists on a cash-only transaction. This may be an attempt to bypass creating a paper trail. It’s safer to use traceable payment methods. Trust Your Instincts If something feels off about the car or the seller, trust your instincts and walk away. It’s better to be cautious than to risk making a costly mistake. Why a CAP HPI Check is Essential A CAP HPI Check is a crucial step in confirming a vehicle’s history before purchasing it. The check will verify whether the car has been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Furthermore, it includes a guarantee offering financial protection if you unknowingly buy a cloned vehicle. Conclusion By taking the time to verify the history of a vehicle, you can protect your business from the financial and safety risks associated with vehicle cloning. A CAP HPI Check provides you with the necessary peace of mind, ensuring that the vehicle you’re buying is legitimate, safe, and free from hidden issues. For more information, visit www.cap-hpi.co.uk.
Government PiCG change to have minimal effect on used values
The shock timing of the government announcement on changes to the Plug-In Car Grant (PiCG) has prompted a flurry of questions regarding possible impact on used values for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The short-term increase in purchase price for those vehicles close to the new threshold of £35,000 is unlikely to immediately affect nearly new values, since used values for those models are generally not close to list price. Example: BMW i3 125kW 42kWh 5dr Auto (cap ID 87355) has a list price of £36,520 and is valued at retail today on a 2121 plate at 1,000 miles at £28,000. Even if there were a small price increase artificially applied by dealers, transaction prices are expected to be largely unchanged and no impact is expected to filter down to three year old values. For the company car driver, there are still multiple incentives in place. The scale of the Capital Allowances and Class 1A Contributions benefits mean that most companies will still want their drivers to be able to take advantage of the zero Benefit In Kind rate and are likely to adjust company car bandings to compensate for vehicles which now fall outside of the PiCG subsidy. Although many of those who were considering quotes before the 18th of March will now be back to square one, there is probably less impact towards the previous threshold of the £50,000 list price as monthly lease rental bandings will tend to be wider. Generally, the PiCG is not the determining factor in the purchase decision for retail customers. Although some may choose an alternative model, or a lower specification version, many are unlikely to be pushed into a used car transaction and for most models the registration volumes are dominated by fleet drivers in any case. There will almost certainly be actions from the manufacturers to alleviate the problem. Many existing IDs are not far above the £35,000 limit and would become eligible for the PiCG following small reductions in list price. Other options undoubtedly being currently considered are reducing specification of existing vehicles (most of which are generously equipped) and accelerating the introduction of smaller battery versions to reduce up front prices. Some OEMs may also apply reductions to dealer discounts to partially alleviate the reduction in profitability. It is possible that we will now see a list price ‘vacuum’ between £35,000 and £40,000 in the same way that we saw one develop between £50,000 and £55,000 under the previous scheme, whilst at the other end of the price bracket we expect some list price inflation for those vehicles which were previously constrained by the £50,000 limit and this could benefit used values in a small number of cases. The biggest factor that is likely to influence used car supply and demand in the future is the availability of supply of new cars. Manufacturers may be tempted to divert supply to other, more profitable markets which are applying larger (and increasing) incentives, rather than build vehicles for the UK market. However, although the reduced speed of adoption would be expected to have a positive impact on used values due to reduced supply, used car demand in this situation is also stimulated by the new car demand: more cars on the road drive increased awareness and also fuel increases in used car demand. The situation is complex and further changes can be expected in March 2022, but our current expectation is that there is no overriding impact on used values in either direction. We expect BEVs to continue to reduce in price by more than internal combustion engine cars, but to retain a significant premium for the foreseeable future, partly due to the intrinsic value of the battery itself. There will of course be a lot of variation on an individual model level, but broadly we see the impact on used values of the changes to the PiCG as neutral.
