Latest news with #TheAA
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Delivers Connected Vehicle Solution For The AA
AA End-to-end management of project has increased vehicle connectivity, efficiency, and ROI for the UK's leading vehicle breakdown service. Bracknell, UK. 4th June 2025 – Panasonic TOUGHBOOK has successfully completed the installation of over 2,500 ruggedised 5G routers across The AA's roadside vehicle fleet, delivering enhanced connectivity, operational efficiency, and cost savings. The ambitious nationwide deployment of Panasonic's Connected Vehicle solution was completed in just over nine months, and was conducted in partnership with The AA, Cradlepoint (an Ericsson company), and Gamma Telecom. Panasonic TOUGHBOOK managed the entire process, including overall project management, testing, installation, training, reporting, and ongoing field services maintenance for the next five years. Optimised Connectivity Across the UKConnectivity is provided in a 25-metre radius around the vehicle. By integrating a seamless twin-5G modem solution, using primary and backup SIMs, The AA can take advantage of up to 98% connectivity across the UK. With real-time data from multiple hardware solutions and applications – such as vehicle diagnostics, onboard cameras, and call-out information – reliant on strong, reliable connectivity, Panasonic's solution minimises downtime and maximises efficiency at the roadside. It also reduces total cost of ownership for The AA, as individual cellular plans for multiple devices are not required. This helps to prevent any unexpected data usage costs, whilst removing the need to purchase multiple devices with 5G capabilities. To further optimise operations, Panasonic also manages Ericsson's NetCloud Manager platform on behalf of The AA, providing real-time insights into data usage, application efficiency, and network performance. The single-pane-of-glass monitoring system provides full visibility over the entire fleet, providing The AA with real-time insights into the solution's effectiveness. Maximising Efficiency at the Roadside For some patrols, The AA also utilises a Screen Mirroring Solution, which enables on-screen data from a TOUGHBOOK rugged device to be displayed on an infotainment screen in the front of patrol vehicles. This increases productivity, flexibility and communication for The AA's technicians. Wendy Richardson-Brooks, IT Operations Improvement & Innovation Manager at The AA, said: 'This is a game-changing solution for our patrols. With our previous solution that could only connect to 3G or 4G connections, connectivity was significantly reduced, stifling productivity on the roadside. Now, with Panasonic and its partners, we have a ruggedised solution that delivers close to 100% connectivity for all of our patrols. This helps our technicians to more quickly and efficiently diagnose and repair vehicles at the roadside – increasing customer satisfaction.' Nick Miller, EU Sales Strategy Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, added: 'This project demonstrates Panasonic's commitment to delivering best-in-class connectivity solutions, in condensed time frame. By combining cutting-edge ruggedised routers, industry-leading network management, and a fully managed service approach, Panasonic is ensuring The AA's fleet remains at the forefront of technological innovation.' For more information on Panasonic's Connected Vehicle offering, please click here: For more information on Panasonic's Vehicle Integration Services, please click here: Panasonic Press Contact Daniel Creasey UK &I Marketing Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Panasonic Press Contact Jim Pople C8 Consulting jim@ About the Panasonic GroupFounded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, devices, B2B solutions and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022, with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company. The Group reported consolidated net sales of Euro 51.6 billion (8,458.2 billion yen) for the year ended March 31, 2025. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: About Panasonic Connect Europe GmbHPanasonic Connect Europe began operations on October 1st, 2021, creating a new Business-to-Business focused and agile organisation. With more than 400 employees and led by CEO Shusuke Aoki, the business aims to contribute to the success of its customers with innovative products and integrated systems and services – all designed to deliver its vision to Change Work, Advance Society and Connect to Tomorrow. Panasonic Connect Europe is headquartered in Wiesbaden and consist of the following business units: The Mobile Solutions Business Division helping mobile workers improve productivity with its range of Toughbook rugged notebooks, business tablets and handhelds. The Media Entertainment Business Division incorporating Visual System Solutions offering a range of high brightness and reliable projectors as well as high quality displays; and Broadcast & ProAV offering Smart Live Production solutions from an end-to-end portfolio consisting of PTZ and system cameras, camcorders, the Kairos IT/IP platform, switchers and robotic solutions that are widely used for live event capture, sports production, television, and xR studios. Business and Industry Solutions delivering tailored technology solutions focused on Retail, Logistics and Manufacturing. Designed to increase operational efficiency and enhance customer experience, helping businesses to perform at their best, every day. Panasonic Factory Solutions Europe selling a wide range of smart factory solutions including electronics manufacturing solutions, robot and welding systems and software solutions engineering. For more information please visit: Please visit Panasonic Connect Europe's LinkedIn page: Attachment AA
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Delivers Connected Vehicle Solution For The AA
AA End-to-end management of project has increased vehicle connectivity, efficiency, and ROI for the UK's leading vehicle breakdown service. Bracknell, UK. 4th June 2025 – Panasonic TOUGHBOOK has successfully completed the installation of over 2,500 ruggedised 5G routers across The AA's roadside vehicle fleet, delivering enhanced connectivity, operational efficiency, and cost savings. The ambitious nationwide deployment of Panasonic's Connected Vehicle solution was completed in just over nine months, and was conducted in partnership with The AA, Cradlepoint (an Ericsson company), and Gamma Telecom. Panasonic TOUGHBOOK managed the entire process, including overall project management, testing, installation, training, reporting, and ongoing field services maintenance for the next five years. Optimised Connectivity Across the UKConnectivity is provided in a 25-metre radius around the vehicle. By integrating a seamless twin-5G modem solution, using primary and backup SIMs, The AA can take advantage of up to 98% connectivity across the UK. With real-time data from multiple hardware solutions and applications – such as vehicle diagnostics, onboard cameras, and call-out information – reliant on strong, reliable connectivity, Panasonic's solution minimises downtime and maximises efficiency at the roadside. It also reduces total cost of ownership for The AA, as individual cellular plans for multiple devices are not required. This helps to prevent any unexpected data usage costs, whilst removing the need to purchase multiple devices with 5G capabilities. To further optimise operations, Panasonic also manages Ericsson's NetCloud Manager platform on behalf of The AA, providing real-time insights into data usage, application efficiency, and network performance. The single-pane-of-glass monitoring system provides full visibility over the entire fleet, providing The AA with real-time insights into the solution's effectiveness. Maximising Efficiency at the Roadside For some patrols, The AA also utilises a Screen Mirroring Solution, which enables on-screen data from a TOUGHBOOK rugged device to be displayed on an infotainment screen in the front of patrol vehicles. This increases productivity, flexibility and communication for The AA's technicians. Wendy Richardson-Brooks, IT Operations Improvement & Innovation Manager at The AA, said: 'This is a game-changing solution for our patrols. With our previous solution that could only connect to 3G or 4G connections, connectivity was significantly reduced, stifling productivity on the roadside. Now, with Panasonic and its partners, we have a ruggedised solution that delivers close to 100% connectivity for all of our patrols. This helps our technicians to more quickly and efficiently diagnose and repair vehicles at the roadside – increasing customer satisfaction.' Nick Miller, EU Sales Strategy Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK, added: 'This project demonstrates Panasonic's commitment to delivering best-in-class connectivity solutions, in condensed time frame. By combining cutting-edge ruggedised routers, industry-leading network management, and a fully managed service approach, Panasonic is ensuring The AA's fleet remains at the forefront of technological innovation.' For more information on Panasonic's Connected Vehicle offering, please click here: For more information on Panasonic's Vehicle Integration Services, please click here: Panasonic Press Contact Daniel Creasey UK &I Marketing Manager at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Panasonic Press Contact Jim Pople C8 Consulting jim@ About the Panasonic GroupFounded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, devices, B2B solutions and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022, with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company. The Group reported consolidated net sales of Euro 51.6 billion (8,458.2 billion yen) for the year ended March 31, 2025. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: About Panasonic Connect Europe GmbHPanasonic Connect Europe began operations on October 1st, 2021, creating a new Business-to-Business focused and agile organisation. With more than 400 employees and led by CEO Shusuke Aoki, the business aims to contribute to the success of its customers with innovative products and integrated systems and services – all designed to deliver its vision to Change Work, Advance Society and Connect to Tomorrow. Panasonic Connect Europe is headquartered in Wiesbaden and consist of the following business units: The Mobile Solutions Business Division helping mobile workers improve productivity with its range of Toughbook rugged notebooks, business tablets and handhelds. The Media Entertainment Business Division incorporating Visual System Solutions offering a range of high brightness and reliable projectors as well as high quality displays; and Broadcast & ProAV offering Smart Live Production solutions from an end-to-end portfolio consisting of PTZ and system cameras, camcorders, the Kairos IT/IP platform, switchers and robotic solutions that are widely used for live event capture, sports production, television, and xR studios. Business and Industry Solutions delivering tailored technology solutions focused on Retail, Logistics and Manufacturing. Designed to increase operational efficiency and enhance customer experience, helping businesses to perform at their best, every day. Panasonic Factory Solutions Europe selling a wide range of smart factory solutions including electronics manufacturing solutions, robot and welding systems and software solutions engineering. For more information please visit: Please visit Panasonic Connect Europe's LinkedIn page: Attachment AAError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Rachel Reeves told petrol prices would be near record highs without current fuel duty cuts
PETROL prices would be near record highs without the current fuel duty cuts, Rachel Reeves was warned today. The AA cheered the lowest pump costs since July 2021 - but says it is solely due to the 5p cut to the hated driving tax won by The Sun's Keep It Down campaign. A drop in the price of petrol saw service stations charge 132.3p a litre on Thursday – a fall from 135.5p in early April. Without the 5p cut, the cost of fuelling a car would now be an average 138.3p a litre, according to the AA. The Keep It Down tax break for drivers is safe until next year. But Ms Reeves is under huge pressure from Labour MPs to find more money to fund benefits, and that could result in an onslaught of tax hikes at the 2026 Spring Budget. Luke Bosdet, spokesperson for the AA said: 'The importance of the continuing 5p cut in fuel duty cannot be underestimated. 'Without the duty cut, petrol would still be uncomfortably close to the record level seen before the pandemic and Ukraine war economic shock. 'The Chancellor needs to consider this in upcoming tax deliberations.' The Sun's asks Rachel Reeves' constituents their thoughts on fuel duty rises 1
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Brace for Bank Holiday chaos: Warning 20 million cars will hit the roads each day while railways pause scores of services for engineering works
Britain's drivers were today warned to expect chaos and long delays during the late May bank holiday weekend with 20million cars set to hit the roads each day. Congestion is likely to be localised around attractions, retail parks, town centres and coastal areas - with half of journeys set to be under 50 miles, according to The AA. The busiest day will be Friday when commuter traffic combines with leisure travel as many families head off to enjoy the May half-term holidays after schools break up. Some 20.6million journeys are anticipated to be made in the UK on Friday, then 19.6million on Saturday and 19.3million on each on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday. The AA has issued an 'amber traffic warning' to alert drivers to high congestion on the roads, adding: 'Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.' Routes heading into the South West of England such as the A303, M5 and A38 are expected to be particularly busy, as well as roads leading to Wales such as the M4. Drivers to Wales were also told to be aware of the current 20mph speed limits in built up areas, while the A52 to Skegness and the M55 to Blackpool could be slow-moving. Congestion is also expected on the M6, M42 and M5 around the Birmingham area, as well any route with a major retail park such as Bluewater in Kent and Lakeside in Essex – which are both near the M25 – and Meadowhall in Sheffield, near the M1. Traffic on the M5 motorway near Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset on April 18, 2025. Routes heading into the South West of England such as this are expected to be particularly busy Saturday will see most leisure journeys with over 7million people heading to activities such as trips to the coast, sporting events and DIY or garden centres. Some 3.5million people indicated they intend to take a long weekend break away from home, according to a survey by The AA. The most common activities are said to be shopping or visiting family or friends, while around half of respondents still had not decided on their plans. The poll run by Yonder received 11,551 responses from AA members between April 7 and 15. Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, said: 'With the upcoming bank holiday, we anticipate a significant increase in traffic.' He encouraged 'all drivers to plan their journeys in advance and stay updated with congestion and roadworks' by using route planner apps. Mr Jones continued: 'Drivers should ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting off. Check tyres, oil and coolant levels and make sure you have enough fuel or EV charge for your journey. 'We also encourage drivers taking longer journeys to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and keep everyone refreshed. By following these tips, we can all contribute to a safer and more pleasant travel experience during the bank holiday weekend. 'Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Let's make sure we all get there safely and enjoy the time with our loved ones.' Rail disruption Rail passengers also face a weekend of disruption, with no trains between London St Pancras and Bedford on Saturday and Sunday due to overhead line upgrades. East Midlands Railway services will start and terminate at Bedford, while Thameslink services will start and terminate at St Albans and Harpenden. A reduced timetable will also be in operation on Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and CrossCountry services between Nuneaton and Stafford due to HS2 works. How far are drivers expecting to travel during the late May bank holiday weekend? Date Under 50 miles 51-100 miles 101-150 miles 151-200 miles 201-250 miles Not Driving I don't know yet Fri 23 May 52% 6% 2% 1% 1% 10% 28% Sat 24 May 51% 6% 2% 1% 1% 13% 29% Sun 25 May 50% 5% 2% 1% 1% 15% 29% Mon 26 May 50% 5% 1% 1% 1% 12% 30% Other disruption will see buses replace trains between Crewe and Preston from Saturday until Monday, and no trains between Peterborough and Ely on Sunday and Monday. Buses will replace trains between Amersham and Aylesbury Vale Parkway from Saturday to Monday, and between Chester and Manchester Piccadilly from Saturday to Monday. In London, between Saturday and Monday, the Mildmay line will have no service between Camden Road and Stratford, and the Picadilly line will not run between Hammersmith and Cockfosters. The Elizabeth line will have a reduced service on Sunday between Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 4 and Maidenhead. No trains will serve Acton Main Line, West Ealing and Hanwell. Weather forecast The weather for the bank holiday is currently expected to be mixed, with temperatures reaching 19C (66F) and a chance of sunny spells at times. However parts of the country could also see showers or longer spells of rain due to westerly winds and incoming areas of low pressure, with most of the rain set to be in northern and western areas. This would represent a dramatic change from the settled and warm weather over recent weeks which has brought the driest spring in more than a century. How many drivers are planning to make a journey - and what type of trip will it be? Date Fri 23 May Sat 24 May Sun 25 May Mon 26 May Total on road 20. million 19.6million 19.3million 19.3million Work journeys 24% 8% 7% 18% Leisure journeys 31% 40% 36% 27% Not decided 45% 52% 57% 55% Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Mark Sidaway said: 'The high pressure that has been around for the last few weeks will slowly lose its grip on the UK this week, bringing a change to more unsettled conditions with many areas seeing rain or showers, ending the prolonged dry spell. 'The change comes this weekend, with weather systems moving in from the Atlantic, arriving from the west probably later on Friday and through Saturday. 'They will bring with them spells of rain, which may be heavy at times, with a risk of strong winds in places. 'These conditions will gradually spread across the UK on Saturday, with Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday likely seeing sunshine and showers.' He said the bank holiday 'won't be a complete washout, with some sunshine expected', but the weekend will have a 'notable shift from the fine and settled weather pattern that has dominated so far this month.' Conditions are likely to remain unsettled into the half-term week, with 'rain, wind and around average temperatures in the forecast', according to the Met Office.
Leader Live
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Leader Live
Chirk Car Boot Sale named among the UK's best - here's why
Searches for 'car boot' and 'best car boots' have increased 123% and 232% respectively in the past three months, according to The AA. The motorising experts added: "At 201,000 Google searches each month for 'car boot near me', it's no secret that car boot sales are cool again." With this in mind, The AA has come up with a list of the top 20 best car boot sales in Britain. The items you should collect to make the most money The list has been compiled based on several factors: Google Review scores Monthly Google search volume Facebook followers Buyer entry cost Seller fee The best car boot sales in Britain The best car boot sales in Britain, according to The AA, are: Croft Car Boot Measham Car Boot Norcross Car Boot Furnace End Car Boot Ashley Heath Car Boot Bolton Car Boot Cols Car Boot Arminghall Car Boot Birmingham Car Boot Allington Lane Car Boot Calverton Car Boot Chelford Car Boot Hop Farm Car Boot Stickney Car Boot Saddington Car Boot East Lancs Car Boot Warwickshire Car Boot Strawberry Fields Car Boot Chirk Car Boot Warrington Car Boot Croft Car Boot in Leicester was named the best in the UK by The AA. (Image: The AA) Why Chirk Car Boot is among the best in Britain The Chirk Car Boot Sale was named the 19th best in Britain, with an overall ranking of 62.59, based on the scores below: Average Google Review score : 82.18 : 82.18 Monthly Google search volume : 30.45 : 30.45 Facebook followers : 20.13 : 20.13 Buyer entry cost : 80.20 : 80.20 Seller fee score: 100 The Chirk Car Boot Sale, on its website, describes itself as the "go-to destination" for finding "hidden treasures" and selling your unwanted items. It continues: "Every week, our bustling car boot sale brings together a vibrant community of bargain hunters, vintage lovers, and casual browsers looking for that special something. "Nestled in the scenic town of Chirk, our event has grown to become a staple in the local community and beyond, attracting sellers and buyers from across North Wales, Shropshire, Cheshire and the Wirral. "Whether you're looking to declutter your home, find unique vintage goods, or simply enjoy a day out with family and friends, Chirk Car Boot Sale offers something for everyone." RECOMMENDED READING: Chirk Car Boot Sale, which has run for 26 years, takes place every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday between March and November, with gates opening at 5am. The car boot takes place at Chirk Airfield (LL14 5BG) just off the A5/A483. For more information about the Chirk Car Boot Sale, visit the website (a link to which can be found above).
