A better deal for buyers - Time for a change?

Radical new rules governing the way cars are sold and serviced throughout Europe come into force today, which should mean a better deal for consumers.

They amend the so-called Block Exemption system governing which competition laws car manufacturers must abide by and which they are allowed to ignore.

Previously, car makers were allowed to dictate who sold and serviced their cars, but the European Commission (EC) hopes the new rules will encourage more competition. However, car industry experts reckon these changes will take time.

A spokesman for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which represents the motor industry, told What Car?: ‘We believe that, in the short term at least, consumers aren’t going to notice a big difference.’

Alan Pulham, executive director of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RIM), agrees. He said: ‘The changes which come into effect this month are going to give dealers greater flexibility, which must be a good thing for consumers.

‘However, we’re not going to see major changes for a year or two. From now until at least October 2005 we are likely to see only a price harmonisation with Europe.’