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Do Winter Tyres REALLY work? Oh, yes, say Volvo (+ video)

Volvo prove how effective Winter Tyres are in the Snowdome For some reason, the debate on fitting winter tyres in the UK continues to be a debate, even when those who’ve actually used a car fitted with winter tyres swear by them (an argument not helped by previous government advice). So Volvo – safety conscious as ever – decided to prove the point by taking the very good Volvo V40 off to the Snowdome indoor ski slope in Tamworth to see exactly what difference a set of winter tyres makes to the grip available in a regular, FWD, family Volvo. And the results should make every car owner go out and fit winter tyres.

Rolls-Royce expands Bespoke operation

Rolls-Royce has decided to expand its Bespoke operation due to increasing customer demand for bespoke items, a company trademark. The Bespoke operation team, based at Goodwood, West Sussex, consists of designers, engineers and project management staff and will be doubled by the end of this year, bringing the number of Bespoke experts to over 50. Already in 2011 Rolls-Royce has seen a growing demand for bespoke additions to their cars, leading to the need to recruit more staff in key areas to match growing customer demands.

Kia scoops three design awards

Kia has won three design awards in this year's Automotive Brand Contest, continuing its strong showing in last year's competition. The second-generation cee'd, launched in June, topped the exterior category table as well as receiving an honorary special mention for exceptional innovation in the interior category. The car's exterior features a chrome-framed glasshouse and muscular lines on the bonnet, while inside an ergonomic, driver-oriented control panel impressed the judges enough to receive the special mention.