Youngsters as young as nine-years-old could be allowed to drive on Scotland’s roads thanks to a new scheme aimed at improving road safety.
Suzuki GB said Young Driver, the UK’s foremost under-17s driver-training company, had recently taken delivery of its first batch of Swift Hybrid models. This is part of a 170-car deal that will see youngsters being given more than 150,000 driving lessons per year.
After 16 years and nearly 1.5 million lessons, Young Driver has been responsible for dramatically reducing accident rates among its alumni, with only 3.3% of former students being involved in accidents in the first six months after passing their driving test, versus the national average of 20%.
The company, led by motor industry stalwart Ian Mulingani, provides lessons for 10-17-year-olds each year at 72 sites across the UK, with 4-10-year-olds being taught in Young Driver’s bespoke Firefly Sports EVs.
Ian said: “After reviewing all our options to replace the existing Vauxhall Corsa fleet, the Swift was the clear winner. Our decision was based around three priorities: product quality and durability; low C0₂ emissions and fuel economy; and – of course – driveability and ease of operation for our novice drivers.
“The Swift stood head and shoulders above its other rivals so we’re now taking on a new fleet of mild hybrid cars that is significantly greener and more economical, easier to drive, better equipped, and, according to CAP HPI’s predictions, will retain an excellent 55% of its value after three years and 36,000 miles.
“Not only will the Swifts support a more sustainable business model in years to come, and make for happier young drivers, but for the first time it’s given us the confidence to buy our new 170-car fleet outright, rather than through a lease deal. Furthermore, the Swift’s superior cabin ergonomics mean that we can now accommodate drivers from the age of nine, rather than 10 with the outgoing car, provided they are at least 1.4 metres in height.
Suzuki GB PLC Director Automobile, David Kateley comments: “We are delighted to be involved with Young Driver with the supply of 170 Swift Hybrid cars. They will be put to very good use by its ever-growing group of younger people with their parents wishing to experience an instructed and safe first-car drive at one of their established locations throughout the UK.
“Swift Hybrid is particularly suitable for younger drivers with its compact size and lightweight controls and offers all the efficiency, technology and safety you need. Swift is our best-selling model, and we are confident that our major collaboration will raise even more awareness of the Suzuki brand along with proving the strong reliability our cars offer”.