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According to research recently released, SMEs currently play a large role in the take-up of car rental services, making up a huge 30%.

Over the next twelve months around 943,000 pot holes are set to be repaired after the Government announced a £50million funding budget that is to be shared amongst over 100 councils in the UK. This funding makes up a fifth on the Pothole Action Fund which is £250million for 2016 and if things go to plan by the end of 2021 more than 4 million potholes should be fixed.

Recent research has drawn attention to the potentially shocking concept that making add-ons to car hire (often in the form of 'hidden extras' such as the option of an extra driver or ski rack many assume are included) could be increasing the cost of hiring the car by up to four times! It is thought that a number of firms are earning money at the expense of customers by continuing with the excessive pricing of 'extras'. However, a number of car hire businesses, such as Fair Rent, are responding instead by offering affordable, transparent car hire at affordable prices; something there is expected to be more public focus on in the coming months.

Recent statistics have drawn attention to the situation that many UK drivers struggle to make important maintenance repairs and changes to their car. According to research carried out by Leasing Options, involving 1,000 drivers, many admitted to feeling incapable of DIY repairs, instead preferring to opt for a professional.

A recent study, brought together by Action for Rail and the TUC, has revealed that public transport costs, especially for trains, affect UK workers much more heavily than in other EU countries. Figures show that workers commuting in the UK spend up to six times as much of their income on rail fare compares to other European commuters. This has led to widespread discontent and has even prompted some to take alternate methods of travelling to work; with car hire being especially popular.

There has been clear increased interest in the vehicle rental market over recent weeks – part of a seasonal trend which typically sees car hire accelerate further towards the big day of Christmas itself. Increased public interest has been met with prominent businesses offering seasonal hire deals, such as family-run Fair Rent.

It seems that increased publicity around festive car hire in Iceland is having implications for vehicle rental services in the UK; with more people seemingly inspired by the freedoms a rented vehicle can offer. Recent news from Iceland has included a growing focus towards the Christmas and New Year celebrations there, involving the hot springs even in the coldest of weather! A service extended to visitors as part of the celebrations is car hire; as traveling by vehicle is seen as the best way to enjoy the island. The famous main Route 1 stays open, even throughout the winter, so people can appreciate the spectacular scenery, in their own time.

Transport for London has recently put forward a compulsory wait rule on Uber vehicles in the city - a proposed measure which will cost Uber drivers up to £19m a year, according to the firm. This emphasizes continuing tensions between transport providers in the city, with passengers fearing ever-rising costs.

A recent report by The Daily Mail revealed that many car-hire companies across Europe are charging increased rates approaching Christmas, with some charging up to 85% more than their usual prices.

Vehicle rental company, Fair Rent, have recently commented on recent research which has been released showing that many people find the experience of moving out to be costly and stressful, largely due to the amount of tasks needed to make the day transition smoothly.