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ProDriver Volume 16

Page 7

business news

Skoda reveals pricing for all-new Superb range Škoda’s flagship non-electric model returns with a fourth generation that offers more space, enhanced design and a more efficient powertrain selection. The latest version of the Superb is priced from £34,865 OTR for the hatchback version and from £36,165 for the estate. Top-line Superb Laurin & Klement models cost from £46,100 (hatch) and £47,400 (estate) Powertrain choice now includes three petrol engines, two diesels and an improved plug-in hybrid with an electric range of more than 62 miles. A mild hybrid version is also joining the range for the first time. Customers can choose from three trims levels: SE Technology, SE L and Laurin & Klement, with first deliveries expected from June 2024. The all-new Superb maintains the car’s reputation as a load-lugger with boot capacity increasing to 690 litres for the estate, 30 litres more than its predecessor, while the

hatch offers 645 litres of boot space. The Superb Estate iV features a second-generation plug-in hybrid drive that enables an all-electric range of more than 62 miles as well as DC charging. All models come with DSG transmission. The interior features a free-standing 13in infotainment display and a well thought-out

centre console with the move of the selector lever to the steering column. A head-up display is available as an option for the first time. The new Superb has switched to a new production plant in Bratislava, and with a new production line comes a new range of two solid and six metallic paint colours.

Addison Lee posts strong profits up 41% in 2023 financial year Mark Bursa

Addison Lee has announced strong financial results for the year ending August 31, 2023, with pre-tax profits up 41% on the previous year. Addison Lee achieved an Adjusted EBITDA of £27.4 million for the year, on a turnover of £224.8m. The acquisition of Green Tomato Cars in June 2023, and the earlier acquisition of black taxi firm ComCab in July 2021, has also enhanced the suite of services available on the Addison Lee platform and significantly bolstered its supply of drivers to over 7,500. Addison Lee CEO Liam Griffin said: “It’s been another positive year of growth, success, and expansion at Addison Lee. Through our integration of Green Tomato Cars and ComCab, we have grown our premium services and been able to take on higher value journeys while re-

Addison Lee CEO Liam Griffin: "We are confident that the business will continue to outperform the market, and we're excited about 2024"

ducing our on-demand time to less than 10 minutes for journeys across the capital.” “By scaling our operating platform in this way, we have delivered another impressive set of financial results.” Demand for premium transport only continues to grow and we’re now poised to take the business to the next level, with a focus

PROFESSIONAL DRIVER

on further expansion and growth.” Addison Lee offers zero emissions capable vehicles including executive, premium cars, and black taxis – investing significantly to meet growing demand from customers who value a sustainable service. Over the past three years, the firm has spent over £80 million to upgrade its fleet.

This includes bringing 600 VW Multivan PHEVs on board to replace its diesel Ford Galaxy and VW Sharan MPVs, and Audi A6 and A8 hybrids to replace diesels on its executive fleet. This comes in addition to the 1,000 fully electric VW ID.4s in service. Addison Lee’s entire standard passenger fleet is set to be zero emission capable by Spring 2024, though infrastructure concerns have seen it roll back on plans to go full EV. During FY23, Addison Lee strengthened its pool of professional private hire and taxi drivers, offering the most lucrative earnings opportunity for drivers in the capital and extending its education initiatives. Griffin concluded: “With a strong performance in the first quarter of FY24, we are confident that the business will continue to outperform the market, and we’re excited about the year ahead.”

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ProDriver Volume 16 by Professional Driver Magazine - Issuu