Welcome to Business Car Manager

There was undoubtedly some good news for small businesses in the Pre Budget Report: the Small Business Finance Scheme; deferral of the Corporation Tax rate rise; and the ability to spread tax payments. But the cut in VAT: will this really make a difference? I can only believe it might have a cumulative feel-good effect. But a small one. However, the cut was excellent news if you finance your cars through a personal contract hire scheme. The Chancellor has just made your monthly lease rates cheaper. Full details in our main story.

Less welcome news from the Chancellor was the rise in fuel duty. It just shows that you really can’t take your eye off the fuel issue. However, we have some driving tips that don’t cost, but could potentially save hundreds. And a sports car that defies the fuel pumps: Audi’s diesel TT Coupe.

Ralph Morton - editor

HEADLINE NEWS

VAT cut makes PCH better value

Business owners that use personal contract hire received a 2.5% rate cut in their lease rates from the Chancellor. Read why the VAT cut makes monthly PCH cheaper.

ALSO IN THE NEWS

Car of the Year crown for Vauxhall’s Insignia

Vauxhall’s new Insignia received a big vote of confidence from the European Car of the Year jury. It beat the Golf and Fiesta to the number one slot. Read why.

New business service for cracked windscreens

Small businesses can now access big company discounts thanks to a new service from Auto Windscreens. Its new website has a dedicated small business area. More here.

Z car back on the beat

Nissan’s fabulous Z car is returning. Looking meaner, more aggressive, and with a more powerful engine, the new 370Z promises even greater driving entertainment.

Higher car safety standards from 2009

If you want the safest business car for you or your drivers, it must be fitted with life-saving anti-skid technology. More on the new safety star ratings.

ROAD TESTS

Road test: The sports car the taxman hates

If you want to beat the taxman, then take a look at this: the Audi TT TDI. Ralph Morton on the diesel sports car with an 18% business car tax band.

ADVICE CENTRE

Efficient driving saves money on fuel

Here’s something that won’t cost you a penny – but can save you up to £800 a year. It’s called efficient driving. Europcar’s Frank Reynolds on how you get more for less.

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