Well I write this sitting on the driveway of my new home awaiting a solicitor's call that all is well and I can move into my new home - it could be a while.

Anyway, news this week regarding new car production - figures have been announced highlighting that UK car production is up on this time last year by 28% according to the SMMT - hurrah positive news!

But don't get too excited - this has been overshadowed by the biggest news item this week, that's right the rolling debate about future transport methods, which continues this week with lobbying on low carbon energies. Always inevitable given that the new coalition government have just whittled down investment in these technologies by £35 million - but nevertheless you cant help but feel it's the media's way of repackaging and adding life to the Electric vehicle debate - its okay I am wise to it and won't mention the E word again in this entry I promise!

It is therefore of no surprise that the Committee of Climate Change have spoken of the government's need to maintain and grow the investment in these technologies in order to stay on track with our Euro buddies to reduce the carbon footprint by 80% over the next 40 years, in which of course the automotive industry has its role to play.

Well examples such as the BMW 320d 'Efficient Dynamics' series I reviewed a few months back is a perfect example. - a seriously great piece of technology that doesn't compromise performance yet delivers great economy and is a great step in the right direction - this will only continue and, as consumer acceptance grows, surely these propositions will get better and better.

This sentiment was echoed at the SMMT's House of Commons reception earlier this week where a plethora of MPs, politicians and automotive figureheads gathered to discuss the industry and key challenges (I wasn't invited but would have declined as I was washing my car) of particular note Mr Ron Dennis aka Mr McLaren CBE called for a collaborative approach between government and industry focusing on education, R&D, participation in success and being different - go Ron!

Maybe the sway of the McLaren figurehead can help convince government and other influencers that this is the direction to invest. It will make you laugh that although the coalition government have scrapped plans to wipe out hospital car parking charges - an outrageous 'sick tax' that brings in over £100 million a year - we can't invest £35 million of this in the low carbon energy development. Madness!

That said, in a week when Which? Magazine's consumer survey named the Kia Picante as the most reliable car on the road surely anything is possible.

Right I have had the phone call I'm off to move into my new house and attempt some DIY, so till next week have a good weekend .

23/07/2010 James Hamilton

I'm not sure that a surge in vehicle production is something for car dealers to be happy about. One of the biggest issues our industry faces has been oversupply, and the lack of vehicle supply last year had its benefits in terms of demand and margin. Let's hope the supply issue remains one of healthy balance rather than returning to huge discounts and distressed selling.