We’ve just got back, knackered but we had a great time and learned plenty.
Whilst the numbers probably were pretty decent we never felt like we were fighting for room for anything. Pretty much as GG said, busy but not overcrowded.
There were plenty of cars but not necessarily enough, pretty much each manufacturer had 2 cars, which meant if you were after something both specific and unusual, you were probably going to be out of luck.
I had the opportunity to chat with quite a number of dealerships or manufacturers representatives, all of which were perfectly happy to tell me about the cars and which dealers would have them near me, even if it wasn’t them.
A lot of the cars we were looking at were EVs, we have the charger and the wife doesn’t go far, so it’ll be ideal for her. When speaking to each I asked the range, then challenged the sales person on the real range. Only one got both confused and a little unhappy at the challenge, insisting you’d get the quoted range in summer 🤦🏻. Most would just slash 20% off and go with that, one – the Toyota chap – straight up said it depended on many variables but I’d likely get between x and y in summer and a little less in winter.
I checked out the BMWs and the iX2 miraculously changed into an iX1 overnight which drew a wry smile to myself.
Mrs F liked the Fiat e600 and the Ora, which wasn’t a huge surprise to me.
I had a good chat with the Ford guy who works for the same group as our nearest, and he said to keep an eye out for the Explorer next week with numbers expected on the Scheme on the 10th. Cars should be in the dealerships near me this week. If you’re considering the Mach E, pull the trigger now, it’s going up on Monday to £4,799 he said for the Select plus tech pack. He also said that’d be the right option to go for as the benefits outweigh the £700 for the pack.
Had several chats with researchers, one finding information around what’s be good for future EV support in choosing, taking delivery and ownership stages. I made a convincing point that they’re really missing a value adding step by not allowing some form of online/virtual server before placing the orders. I pointed out that they were already getting returned EVs because the install was denied or non standard and can with an unaffordable non standard fee and returned cars cost Motability money. They’re looking at some interesting options around choosing EVs, including experience days (where I suggested getting scheme members there to interact with potential customers) so they could talk through the FUD they get fed online and an AI supported search/chose for me type function where you could list your needs (high seating, big boot, sits 2 giant kids in back, can fit dog and scooter in boot, comfortable seating) and it returns a list of suitable cars. Whether any suggestions become reality would be anyone’s guess but they’re researching users opinions at these events.
I'm Autistic, if I say something you find offensive, please let me know, I can guarantee it was unintentional.
I'll try to give my honest opinion but am always open to learning.
Mark