The automotive job you’ve always wanted could be gained through a higher education course. Servicing Stop Jobs takes a look into a few courses that may interest you.

Motorsport Engineering and Management

Where next: A career in motorsport

Who offers this course: Cranfield University

What qualifications you need: If you are an undergraduate you must have or expect a 1^st or 2^nd class honours degree in a relevant subject. However other qualifications are considered if they are relevant and combined with significant experience.  If you are a part time student you must be employed in Motorsport.

About the course

We start off with a course that isn’t perhaps won’t lead you to the most conventional automotive but certainly an interesting one.

Cranfield specialise in this course. It’s dedicated to develop the skills of important technologies within the discipline. This will potentially allow students to flourish in a career in motorsport. The Masters section of the course develops relevant management skills within the motorsport industry.

Facilities at the university are second to none. These include an Off-Road Dynamics Facility and wind tunnels. Cranfield have mentioned that former students have gone onto to work for companies such as, Ferrari, BMW Sauber and Williams F1 to name a few.

Automotive Engineering

Where next: Many different roles within the Automotive Industry will be made available to you. You’ll be open to designing jobs and even jobs in manufacturing.

Who offers this course: Warwick University

What qualifications you need: Grades of AAB/ABB of Mathematics and Physics in your A-Level exams. Students taking only one of these subjects are also welcome to apply. Grades of different disciplines will be subject to review on an individual basis.

About the Course

The course aims to make students into skilled automotive engineers with a variety of jobs open to them. There is something for everyone, with modules throughout the four years going through a wide range of subjects. These include Design for Function, Starting and Running a Business and Forensic Engineering.

The first year is based on settling students into university life. Results from the first year will not contribute towards your final mark, but you must pass your first year. There will be coursework and end of year examinations throughout the 3 year course.
Kit Car Technology
Where next: A kit car manufacturer

Who offers this course: Staffordshire University

What qualifications you need: You’ll need around 100 UCAS points with at least 1 A-Level or a BTEC qualification. However different qualifications can be considered by the university.

About the course

Kit cars are indeed within a very specialised and skilled industry. It’s a growing industry and certainly a very interesting one.

You’ll be participating in building a kit car early on. It’s not just a practical course however. You’ll be undertaking modules such as business structure, entrepreneurship, management and logistics.

You will be required to display what skills you have picked up within a certain project.

It’s not handed to you on a plate

Many believe it’s as simple as gaining a driving license. Becoming a driving instructor is not as easy as you may think. You need to have certain professional and attributes to succeed. There also is a lot of competition. Many learner drivers have plenty of choice of instructors to choose from.

What you need to qualify and last in the job

You need certain characteristics to succeed if you want to become a good driving instructor. Getting the job isn’t enough, you need to last.

Basic Requirements

You just need a Full UK driving license held for over 3 years. There must be no more than 6 penalty points on your license.

People skills

You’ll be dealing with people, whose trust you need to gain. There is no such a thing as a “comfort zone” for successful driving instructors. You can’t have an “off day”. You need Students need to warm to you and your teaching technique. This way you effectively get more business.

A few personal attributes needed

• Patience

Some students need more time to adapt to cars and the road than others. Some learn quicker than others. Learn how to tolerate and deal with different students attitude and performance.

• Concentration

You need to observant of everything within each lesson. You are dealing teaching students who aren’t qualified to drive around on the roads. You don’t to crash or someone getting run over. A split second loss of focus could cause this.

• Reliability

Students need someone who turns up on time. They need a full lesson and exactly what they pay you for. You need to take proper care of your vehicle, making it suitable to learn in.

• Judgment

The dual controlled pedals are excellent tools, this can stop potential accidents. However you must know when to use them. Panicking and pressing the brakes too often will leave the student learning hardly anything. You need to react only when necessary.

These are just a few skills needed. Overall you’ll need a lot more to become successful and last. Ensuring that you adapt to every student is also vital. Not every student will be the same. Some will need different sort of attention and direction.

This is not the first time that the Fiat 500 has been released. The car that we see now on the UK roads is a rejuvenated version of the one released around 50 years ago.

Chrysler dealerships acting as an outlet

Fiat is not exactly a household name in Canada. In fact much of the population have not even heard of the company.  One car manufacturer which many Canadians have heard of is Chrysler. Fiat own a 60 per cent stake in them, meaning they will have all the knowledge and firepower to make a great impact in the country. If people were unaware of Chrysler’s partnership with Fiat, they will do eventually as Fiat vehicles will be sold through Chrysler dealerships.

Trims, variants and equipment available

There will be three available trims with the 500. These include a hardtop a convertible and an Abarth version. Any Fiat with the Abarth badge offers great speed and performance, similar to the Type R badge of Honda.

With the Fiat 500 hardtop variant, there will be three trims available including Pop, Sport and Lounge. The convertible variant will be available in pop and lounge variants.

The Pop variant comes with a keyless entry system, 15 inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system, electric remote locks, electric windows and cloth bucket seats.

The Sport variant adds fog lamps, a rear spoiler, sport suspension, Blue & Me Bluetooth connectivity, sport cloth bucket seats and steering wheel mounted audio controls.

The Lounge variant comes with fog lamps, leather heated seats, body side mouldings, a Sirius Satellite radio, an automatic dimming rear view mirror along with a Bose premium audio system plus stylish alloy wheels.

Some features which they will have in common is electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill start assist, multiple airbags and active head restraints.

Multi air engine

All models apart from the Abarth contain a nippy 1.4 litre Multi Air engine, capable of producing 101 BHP. Multi Air means is a term used to describe the engine’s economical benefits as the technology cuts out fuel consumption and emissions by 10 per cent. This will be passed eventually onto the Chrysler.

Will the Fiat 500 be a success in Canada?

First time offenders no different

That’s the case even for those who have been only been caught once. Using your phone whilst driving will give you an unwanted 3 points as you have committed what is known as a CU80 offence. Texting or making a phone call whilst behind the wheel is clearly proving to be more costly than first thought.

Not even a quote

The news was revealed by the AA, who conducted a survey. Out of 8 major car insurance companies, half of these decided that they would not even provide a quote. Even if you are quoted by the other half, they would automatically place a 20 per cent increase on your insurance. If that sounds bad, that is in actual fact getting off lightly. The other half will impose an increase of up 50 per cent, some sources claim even more!

Speeding

It’s not just the use of a phone that could raise or deter insurance quotes. Other offences such as a minor speeding offence (an offence known as the SP30) will send premiums sky high. According to various sources, speed offences typically increase premiums by up to 10 to 20 per cent.

Not how it used to be

Times are clearly changing. Just a few years ago motorists would be punished through insurance quotations for having just 3 points on their license. A speeding offence was deemed as minor and was indeed overlooked, according to a similar AA survey back in 2009.

An AA spokesman has his say on the results as described why times have changed. He said “When speed cameras were first introduced, everyone was getting caught and insurers took a more lenient view. But now motorists are used to cameras, insurers won’t ignore three points.”

A spokesman from direct line also said “Drivers with motoring convictions are 40 per cent more likely to claim than those with no convictions.”

Why phone users are more harshly punished

According to the AA, motorists who use their phone behind the wheel are more likely to make an insurance claim compared to those who speed and commit other offences. A spokesman said “Anecdotal evidence suggests motorists caught using a mobile are twice more likely to make a claim than with other offences.” Interestingly the AA also said that using a mobile phone is deemed as a deliberate act whereas minor speeding offences are not, giving reason to punish one offence more than the other.

More muscular

Available to the rich only, the vehicle may not adopt the “DBS” badge. The car appears to be more muscular looking in the photos leaked on the internet. The front grille is larger as are the intakes, suggesting an increase in power and performance. The newly designed LED headlights are a wonderful addition.

Evolution of design

The car seems to have a type of crease going around with the roofline also slanted. The mirrors are redesigned appearing to be at a different type of angle. This shows that the vehicle is evolving into a more futuristic looking type of vehicle.

Performance slightly increased

Aston Martin seem to be more focused on upgrading the style of the car rather than providing more power. The pier increase is set to be just 40 BHP, taking the maximum power output to 550 BHP from 510 BHP.  According to sources, the vehicle will be able to hit a top speed of 200 MPH and a 0 – 62 MPH time of just 4 seconds. An MPG average of 20 will be achieved whilst the vehicle will emit 300g/km of C02 emissions.

Improvement on what Aston already has

The new generation DBS will not adopt a list of new technology and platforms. It will instead inherit whatever Aston Martin already contain within their locker. However there will be improvements in terms of the comfort and overall quality provided within. The vehicle’s driver will be sharper and more pleasurable according to Aston Martin.

Quality interior

The interior will be no different, this is also set to see an improvement. The car will contain more quality and a more attractive style. Materials such as carbon fibre, steel and leather are to be combined to bring about a wonderful look that is easy on the eye. The stereo system will be provided by Bang & Olfusen, perhaps the best money can buy.

Sound good? As mentioned earlier you will have to wait until the end of the year to get your hands on one. It will cost approximately £190,000 when released, meaning the most of us will unfortunately not be able to get their hands on one.

What can I do to become a mechanic?

The most common and perhaps best option is taking an apprenticeship (Usually only available for 16-24 year olds). You’ll be able to learn by part taking in “hands on” work and getting paid for it at the same time. Typical working conditions will be experienced first-hand. You will gain a real understanding of what it takes to become a mechanic. You will also be guided by a mentor. As they are experienced and skilled mechanics, you are sure to be learning a great deal of suitable skills.

There is a different option available if you are too old to become an apprentice. Some garages may take you on as a part time trainee. Be prepared to sell yourself well. Show enough enthusiasm about the trade as well as sufficient initial skills.

If you don’t have the time to fully commit yourself to any option mentioned above, you could enrol into a local college. You could do it part time after work. There are also home courses which allow you to teach yourself with appropriate materials being provided.

What skills and attributes do I need?

Firstly as the job is quite demanding, you’ll need to be in a good physical state. Nowadays mechanics work with technical computerised equipment. This means you’ll possibly need good computer skills as you’ll be undertaking technical tasks on them when doing diagnostics, tuning the engine etc. A driving license for the vehicles that you will be working with is a must.  You’ll need to be practical and good at problem solving too.

Many mechanics keep up to date with developments within the car industry. They look for new technology and developments. Attention to detail is very important and that can sometimes prove the difference between whether a customer is happy with their car or not.

What can I expect?

Repairing cars day in a day out is an obvious task for mechanics. Various tools will be utilised and different types of work will be placed upon you. There usually isn’t one type of work that will be required of you. For example one day you may be working an engine repair, the next you could be carrying out a car service. Different cars may require different electrical and computer equipment and each car will be in different states. You may even become a MOT tester which is a possibility to more experienced mechanics.

The industry prospects looks very strong. An automotive job as a mechanic is sure to bring stability and great earning potential within that sector. Everyone will always need a car repair at some point or another.

Recovery

Honda has shown great recovery reporting profits of 71 billion yen for the fourth quarter of 2011. This is an increase 44.5 billion yen from 2010. Clearly Japanese automakers are on their way up. With results like these they are showing a tremendous recovery. Part supplies were made short along with production of many vehicles, leading to sales falling.

The trouble with Yen

The strength of the Yen proved to be a hindrance recently for Japanese automakers, with profit overseas not reading very well. Profit for the official financial year, ending March 31^st, fell by a significant 60 per cent. This was due to a huge to the natural disasters that occurred in Asia last year. Despite an increase in sales of 8.7 per cent, profit naturally decreased due to the problems with the currency. Japanese automakers will be hoping that the strength of the currency improves soon in order for profits to increase.

Honda fighting back

Honda are one company that sees a resistance to the strength of Yen, forecasting a tremendous profit of 470 billion yen over the current financial year. The company sold 3.1 million vehicles during this period alone.

The same expected for Toyota and Nissan

The first and second largest car makers in Japan, Toyota and Nissan are also forecasting a better outcome for 2012. Their profits and sales are also expected to see an improvement. Results are due out in the near future.

Things getting better and better for Honda

This week has been a period full of good news for Honda. Recently they announced the addition of 500 new jobs at their Swindon plant. This came as great news to the UK automotive industry and the economy in general. A plant such as the Vauxhall plant is currently seeing job cuts and is also facing potential closure. Honda is one of few car makers which are showing some faith within the British automotive industry. The demand of the ever popular Honda Civic has played a major part.

Honda will build a car assembly line along with a brand new engine factory as they attempt to meet the increasing demand in China.

600,000 cars per year

The brand new assembly line in question will have an initial capacity of 120,000 each year. This will be increased by 50 per cent eventually it is estimated. This is expected to come into force by the year 2014. In total Honda will be producing 600,000 cars per year after the new assembly line is developed.

The Chinese automotive market

The Chinese automotive market is the biggest in the world. Although it’s growth has seen a slow growth rate recently, the Chinese car market still remains as the most profitable emerging car market. One reason as to how China is performing so well economically is down to the fact that their automotive industry is performing wonders.

Catering products for Chinese cosumers

They simply have the most amounts of vehicles in the country when compared to anywhere else. A key to selling well in China is adapting their vehicles to country’s local culture. Honda plan to do just that by creating brand new Research and Development facilities in the country which focus on the requirements of Chinese customers.  Kevin Whale, head of Chinese operation for General Motors said “The products that we are building today globally have a lot more attention paid to what the customer needs in China”

The Beijing Motor Show

Established car markets such the United States and others throughout Europe are not growing as fast as the Chinese car market. It is no wonder that foreign auto makers are making their way to China. The Beijing Motor Show was a great testament to that. The likes of Ford, Audi and Chrysler were out in force, showcasing some of the best cars and technology that the world has to offer.

Sports Utility Vehicles

The fastest growing segment in China is currently Sports Utility Vehicles. Ford showcased their Ecosport, with the car expected to sell tremendously well in developing markets such as China and India. MG also joined in on the act showcasing the amazing looking Icon. Geeley, a Chinese car manufacturer also launched the GX7. Will Honda launch a new assault in the SUV segment in China?

Chrysler helped Fiat break even

Chrysler sales were so good that they managed to achieve the best ever quarterly profit since their bankruptcy crisis back in 2009. Fiat can count them lucky that Chrysler sales have increased throughout the United States. Without their recent success Fiat would have not been able to break even. This is a stark comparison to the previous year, with Fiat hitting a profit of £204.29 million during that time. During the first quarter of the year, Chrysler’s sales increased by 33 per cent with total sales hitting 523,000.

Two different directions

Today’s results indicate that the company is heading in two different directions in two parts of the world. American sales are on the rise with the Chrysler brand. European sales continue to falter with Fiat cars not in demand as much as they used to be. Confidence in the European car market is in a critical state at the moment. Mass car producers are currently producing more cars than what is being demanded. That is the complete opposite scenario for luxury car producers. They are currently not producing enough compared to demand.

A surprise

Many experts were sceptical at Fiat’s purchase of Chrysler. Many believed that the purchase would prove to be a hindrance with sales and profits slowing down. It is clear to see that at the moment, Chrysler is keeping Fiat going. Chrysler’s performance has surprised many.

Fiat has not let their own performance drag them down however. They still believe that they are on track to reaching their end of year financial and sales target.

Sergio Machinonne, the Chief Executive of Chrysler and Fiat praised the work of Chrysler “Another positive quarter – built on sales gains that have surpassed the industry average – is affirmation that the Chrysler team is maintaining its focus,”

Chrysler’s ownership

Chrysler is 58.5 per cent owned by Fiat. The rest of the company is owned by the United Auto Workers Union in association with a retiree healthcare trust.

Buying patterns and consumer confidence will have to improve Europe. Jobs losses and plants closures could be round the corner if events continue as they are.

Contrast between Vauxhall and Honda

There seems to be a heavy contrast between the likes of Vauxhall and Honda at the moment. General Motors are heavily considering closing the famous Ellesmere plant here in the UK. Jobs have already been cut. With companies like Honda having faith in the European and UK car market there is a greater chance of the car market recovering.

Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover are another company to show faith in the UK automotive industry. They have recently added 1,000 jobs at their Halewood plant. A total of 35,000 people applied for the roles available.

Honda hope to up production

The addition of the new employees brings the total number of people employed at the factory to 3,500. There will also be an extra shift introduced at the facility with an increase in production planned. Honda are targeting a 50 per cent boost in production figures, taking total figures to an estimated 180,000 by the end of the year. The new Honda Civic has just received a huge increase in demand which prompted the extra shift being made available.

Andy Piatek, the Director of the Honda UK division was on hand to express his happiness at the news. He said “I am delighted to welcome our new associates,”

Professor Garel Rhys, the Director of the Centre for Automotive Industry Research in Cardiff was also on hand to speak the “amazing” news. His exact words were “It’s very good news to hear in a way there’s a two-pronged attack. One, you’re going to get the extra workers taking up the workforce to this colossal 3,000 plus, that’s an amazing number in this day and age. But it’s going to be reinforced by a new product.”

Fortunes turned around

Many would have not forecasted such news last year when Honda cut hours by more than 50 per cent. Only two days per week was used for production following the Tsumami in Japan.  Floods also occurred in Thailand further halting back Honda’s business. Swindon depended on factories in Thailand to develop electronic car components. From September to November last year, staff were working at reduced hours. How things have changed.