Audi will finally develop...
Audi will finally develop their Steppenwolf concept into a production vehicle, but won’t be using the A3’s chassis and body design. Instead, it is going to use a refined quattro all-wheel-drive system and powerful petrol engines as well as TDIs built around a redesigned A4 chassis. The car is likely to hit the roads in 2007 and will be amongst the first compact SUVs to be at the dealers, by then badged the Q5. While the massive bumpers, the sump guard and the chrome door sill protections can be regarded as pure show, the greater ground clearance in combination with powerful engines and an extended towing capacity will certainly appeal young buyers with sporty ambitions.
LABOUR
LABOUR
* Safety cameras will continue to be used, but those which don"t reduce accidents will be scrapped.
* More investment in road network. There are plans to replace road tax with a toll system.
* Fuel duty has fallen by 12 per cent since 2000. If re-elected, it will not alter rate until next Budget in September.
* Committed to the introduction of the Road Safety Bill and will support it through next Parliament.
CONSERVATIVE
* Will stick with current road tax and fuel duty system, rather than using tolls.
* Abolish Camera Partnerships and use speed traps sensibly. Increase police by 5,000 a year, some on traffic duty.
* Clampdown on uninsured drivers. Review of current speed limits and the use of variable points for offences.
* Councils won"t be able to introduce congestion charging without local resident support.
LIBERAL
* Supports the continued use of safety cameras to enforce limits and reduce accidents.
* Local authorities free to introduce congestion charging, using proceeds to invest in public transport and tolls.
* Owners of greener cars will pay less tax. Road building schemes will be scrapped unless benefits are clear.
* A freeze on current fuel duty until next Budget in September. Tax discs will be replaced with road charging.