Fuel prices 'still number one concern'

FUEL DUTY freezes have done nothing to stop the public worrying about the price of filling up their cars, according to research from British Car Auctions. More than 70% of the 400-person sample cited fuel prices as the number one concern when it comes to motoring costs, despite reports from the AA that pump prices have actually fallen over the last year. Second place in the survey was taken by the cost of road tax, which reflects that the survey was taken among used car buyers.

Cuba removes new car purchase restrictions

Granma, the Communist Party’s newspaper of record in Cuba, said Wednesday that the Council of Ministers approved regulations that “eliminate existing mechanisms of approval for the purchase of motor vehicles from the state.” That means the sale of new and used cars will be allowed to the public. Up until now, Cubans could buy and sell vehicles to each other, but they had to request permission from the government to purchase a new vehicle -- the main reason for the island's unique automotive landscape. The new laws will be enacted gradually, according to Granma, with a set minimum price.

Volvo outlines strategy for U.S. revival

Volvo Cars is rolling out a broad strategy aimed at reviving the brand in the United States after a decade of shrinking demand while nearly doubling sales globally. The plan, shared with U.S. dealers on Tuesday, includes new powertrains, new vehicles, more leasing and fresh marketing under a new, global ad agency.