The car of the day today is the wonderful Lotus Elan + 2.
Mr B has a fantastic policy with agreed value, choice of repairer and also salvage retention through ourselves here at AIB.
The Elan +2 was introduced in 1967 with a longer wheelbase and 2 rear seats. 5,200 Elan +2were made. The Elan +2 ceased production in 1975. Because of its successful design and rigorous attention to cost control on the body, chassis, engine and transmission, the Elan went on to become Lotus’ first commercial success, reviving a company stretched thin by the more exotic and expensive to build Lotus Elite enabling funding of the Lotus success in racing over the next ten years.
Thank you for sending these lovely photos Mr B!
We specialise in classic car insurance so remember to call us on 02380 268351 for all your classic car needs.
This weeks car of the week is this superb Mazda MX 5 built in 1996.
The Mazda MX 5 two door convertible sports car was originally manufactured in Japan and was the best selling sports car of all time in 2000 and won a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Mr T was kind enough to take out a policy with Jenna back in July which includes the benefits of both salvage retention and agreed value. Jenna was able to offer an amazing discount as the client was happy with limited mileage and keeping the vehicle garaged overnight. In addition the fact that Mr T has owned the vehicle for some time, meant Jenna could sort amazing cover for a sensible price.
If you have a stunning classic car that needs insuring please call our team today on 02380 268351.
Airsports Insurance Bureau are delighted to announce that due to continued growth, we have moved to new premises, in the heart of Chandlers Ford. Due to our stellar success rate for over 25 years, we required a larger space that was more fitting for our needs and growing team of specialists. Our former base at Fleming Court, Eastleigh, served us well for seven years, but we are now ready and excited for our fresh new future within the new offices.
We have invested in air conditioned, well appointed facilities that will provide us with the opportunity for further expansion as we continue to grow. Our brilliant team of experts and wonderful visitors will enjoy an open plan kitchen, break-out space, board room, training room and managers offices. Based in the prestigious Oakmount House building, Oakmount Road, in Chandlers Ford, the office is located in a superb location close to all transport links.
To mark the occasion, we commissioned what is possibly the coolest sofa in the insurance industry… designed and created by our friend Ian, aka ‘The Customizer’. It’s a VW Beetle, cut in half, sprayed in our distinct AIB blue and compliments the Range Rover tyre table beautifully.
It’s vitally important that our staff keep their hands clean at all times, so we’ve invested in a wall mounted sanitizing unit made from the exhaust system of a Porsche 911, no less! Only the best for our wonderful team of people who do their very best to deliver the excellent service you expect.
We are thrilled with Ian’s designs – he has produced work for various celebrities, including an aeroplane for Lord Alan Sugar’s No.1 eatery, Sheesh. The automotive industries are full of weird, wonderful and mind boggling designs, so it’s only fitting we replicate a touch of that at our HQ. If you want to add that statement of the unique, with highly creative automotive art, Ian and the team can be contacted here: www.thecustomiser.co.uk
We’d also like to thank our friend Oliver at Office Furniture and Interiors, who has managed the project faultlessly with patience and skill. If you need help with any office design or refit we’d encourage you to contact them, their contact details can be found here: www.ofai.co.uk
Our new address is: First Floor, Oakmount House, Oakmount Road, Chandlers Ford, Hampshire, SO53 2LH. Please do come and visit us (when safe to do so), the brand ‘new’ kettle is always on!
Please continue to use our existing telephone numbers and email contact information.
We managed to grab Kirby who wanted to cover classic car care for the forthcoming months…
As we find ourselves hopefully at the end of another lockdown, the classic car enthusiasts amongst you might be itching to take your pride and joy out for a decent spin, whilst looking ahead to theappropriate care needed over the winter months. It’s a beautiful time of year for longer Sunday drives, or cheeky mid-week spins… through our beautiful countryside in technicolour autumn, or nipping down to the coast for a hot cuppa near the sea.
With the colder months just around the corner, it’s about striking a good balance between moderate consumption and proper storage. A bit like a vintage single malt. You might be preserving your seasoned model inside for longer periods and airing it out less, but that does not mean neglect – it’s just as important to look after it in the correct way during the winter.
Here are a few tips to keep your antique auto in the pink…
Keep it clean
Start the clean at the top of the car, work down and don’t forget the underside or the interior. Ensure you use the correct cleaning agents. Dish soap can be harsh and will make the paint look dull. Shelve out a bit more on professional carwash soaps which are thick and foamy and will leave your classic looking fabulous. Rinse with free flowing water then dry with a soft leather chamois or a soft microfiber towel, changing towels often for a lovely shiny finish. Brake discs also need to be dry. as leaving them damp can cause the pads to stick to the disc and lock, so take her out for a short run after washing. She’s worth it.
5 star accommodation
Ok so you don’t need a palace to park it in, but treat your prized possession to a space fit for purpose. We always recommend storing your vehicle in a locked garage or dedicated car storage facility during the winter months. The space should be well ventilated to avoid damp and you might want to consider using an inflatable storage device for added protection, or a breathable car cover with a soft lining. If you choose to use a dehumidifier, be aware – if it’s too high it will draw the moisture out of everything around it, including veneer dashboards and anything made of vinyl or soft plastic.
Get your motor runnin’
It’s been snowing/hailing/sleeting/raining; probably all of the above, for days… your cabin fever has maxed out. You need to get out for the sake of your mental health (and your partner’s) A clear, glorious, crisp, winter morning finally arrives and you simply have to take your classic for a cruise. If so, she will need a bit of before and after care. Salt and grit on the road is her enemy as it causes corrosion. A decent wax will help protect the paintwork but treating the underside professionally with a powder coating or quality waxoil will help protect the metal, and when you’re home, again, hose the underside down. You wouldn’t neglect yourself in the shower now would you, so give your car the same attention! Avoid clutch and brake seizures and keep mechanics lubricated by treating yourself and your vehicle to that much needed spin… simply idling the car without driving it may speed up corrosion issues, as the engine will likely not reach full operating temperature.
Battery Power
Awareness of your car’s battery is key, depending on it’s age. If a battery is not disconnected there is a possible risk that it could be discharged in a short amount of time, ending in battery destruction. A trickle-charger can keep the battery in good shape and is essential on more modern classics. Problems can occur with fuel injection systems and on-board computers if the battery goes flat and on older classics, it’s sensible to undo and remove the battery clamps during periods of storage.
Stay protected
Keeping insurance in place means your car is covered even when parked up. It might be tempting to think about cancelling your classic car insurance policy if your vehicle will not be in use during the winter, but remember, fire, flood damage and theft remain potential issues. Not forgetting that glorious winter day we mentioned, when you just have to hit the open road.
Some of the benefits you enjoy with our policies at AIB include:
Dedicated claims handling team who will discuss repair options
Agreed value at no extra charge (subject to evidence)
Salvage retention option to customer following total loss
Cherished plate covered
Cover for public road rallies and trials, treasure hunts, road safety and non-competitive rallies
Discounts for Multi vehicle owners and coverage for classic vehicle collections
Some insurers provide up to 90 days European use per trip
Cover for dismantled parts
Stand-alone breakdown cover available
Discount for storage, garaging and limiting the mileage
Today’s car of the day is this stunning Volkswagen Beetle 1300.
The Volkswagen Beetle 1300 was introduced back in 1966 and created in Germany. The main purpose of the design was to fit two adults and three children.
Mr C was kind enough to take out a policy with us which enjoyed the benefits of salvage retention and a lovely discount as the vehicle is kept garaged over night, agreed limited mileage and length of ownership.
Motorhomes and the lifestyle they offer, are more popular than ever before; there has never been a better time to take a mini-break and explore the many wonderful attractions right here on your doorstep. For those of you who love to get away, with spontaneity but retaining home from home comfort, the motorhome lifestyle is unparalleled. It also enables those of you with other outdoor hobbies such as mountain biking, kayaking, or climbing to easily transport your equipment, still having the creature comforts of home at your disposal.
Renowned motorhome heavyweights, Chausson, AutoSleeper & Pilote, are all bringing new models and ranges to the market for 2021. All kitted out with jaw dropping luxurious fittings and interiors, gadgets and comforts, these new models will ensure you want for absolutely nothing.
PILOTE
Top European motorhome manufacturer, Pilote has been trailblazing its mark in the UK motorhome industry for over 30 years, blending classic staples with innovative customisable features. During this time, many models and styles have been made available and adapted to fit the needs of the UK market, proving its importance to such a major player.
Evidence
2021 sees the exciting introduction of the Evidence branding, featuring a spec especially designed to suit the demands of the British motorhome owner. Available on selected models: the P650C, the P626D, the P696D, the P740FC and the G740FC, Evidence includes an incredible specification list at an ‘all-in’ package price. Built around the Fiat 9 speed automatic gearbox with a 140bhp engine, the specification includes canopy, energy pack with a solar panel and large, 95Ah battery, reversing camera, chassis pack with cruise control and double airbags, comfort pack with cab blinds and an electric step… and much, much more!
Pacific and Pacific + Range
Pilote P720FGJ
The Pilote Pacific range sleeps up to five people making it ideal for couples and small families. Brand-new for 2021, the Pilote P720FGJ is a 7.2m two-berth motorhome, with twin beds at the rear and a face to face lounge-dinette that seats four. The bathroom features an innovative pivoting wall that reveals a shower hidden on one side with the sink and toilet on the other.
Pilote P626D
The compact 6.2m Pilote P626D, fresh for the 2021 season features innovative storage and sleeping arrangements. Shorter in length than a long-wheelbase 6.3m panel van means it’s easy to park but retains the benefits of a coachbuilt body. An electric drop-down bed is above the large lounge, which can seat up to six people.
Galaxy Range
Pilote are synonymous with customisable, high-quality motorhomes and the 2021 Galaxy range is no different. These top-level vehicles combine luxury with practicality. Every model in the 2021 Pilote Galaxy line-up hosts four belted seats, exceptional panoramic views, and a double-insulated heated double-floor, a Pilote exclusive. Modern looking black hardware, additional lighting and storage and new anti-slip fabrics under seating, all feature as new for 2021.
MERCEDES AUTO-SLEEPER
Auto-Sleepers’ latest Mercedes coachbuilt range provides the perfect opportunity for travelling in style. Depending on the layout you are seeking, the range is very likely to deliver the right combination. Mercedes is rightly held in high regard for its engineering prowess and the Mercedes motorhome chassis delivers the ultimate in touring luxury. Six models are available, fully enhanced to offer unrivalled home from home comfort. Features include beech sprung slats on beds, reflex foam upholstery, touchscreen displays, GRP interior walls, habitation air conditioning and many more… as standard. All include the powerful 163bhp Euro 6.2 engine, as well an optional seven-speed automatic gearbox.
1 – The Bourton delivers a spacious lounge which quickly converts at night to provide a choice between full-length single beds or a double. It also features a well-specified end kitchen. What’s more, the Bourton packs all this into a body length of just 6.5m, meaning that it’s easy to both drive and park.
Height: 2860mm / 9’5”
Width: 2660mm / 8’9”
Length: 6485mm / 21’3”
Seats: 2
2 – The Malvern camper van offers the decadence of a French bed and a large front lounge and fully equipped kitchen. The jewel in the crown is a luxe bedroom with side washroom, boasting a separate shower.
Height: 2860mm / 9’5”
Width: 2780mm / 9’1”
Length: 7330mm / 24’1”
Seats: 2
3/4 – The Burford and The Burford Duo offer the space and comfort normally associated with a tag axle Motorhome, on a lighter rear wheel drive, single axle Mercedes chassis. A spacious lounge is up front, with a fully equipped kitchen. This leads through to a stunning rear bedroom with a full width en-suite washroom,
Height: 2880mm / 9’6”
Width: 2780mm / 9’1”
Length: 79200mm / 26’0”
Seats: 2
5 – The Winchcombe features a large, luxurious bathroom featuring a double shower, a centrally positioned high end kitchen and roomy lounge, delivering homely, yet magnificent comfort.
Height: 2860mm / 9’5”
Width: 2780mm / 9’1”
Length: 7330mm / 24’1”
Seats: 2
6 – The Stanton is the most compact model built on the Mercedes rear wheel drive chassis and offers a similar layout to the Bourton. With no compromise spared on the space available inside, it features all flagship specifications, including an optional fully automatic gearbox.
Height: 2900mm / 9’6”
Width: 2660mm / 8’9”
Length: 5980mm / 19’7.5”
Seats: 2
CHAUSSON
40+ years of existence and the production equivalent of 50,000+ motorhomes, Chausson are renowned for their unique French style and flair, alongside award-winning levels of exceptional quality, comfort, and reliability. This remains the case for 2021, seeing the low-profile range broadened, offering four brand-new layouts to the line-up.
The 648 If you are looking for an island-bed motorhome, you’ll love the 648; it’s less than 7m long and offers a 160cm-wide bed, and a face-to-face ‘SmartLounge’.
The 788 is less than 7.2m in length and has a similar layout plus a transverse double-door washroom. This model is equipped with the ‘SmartLounge’ and ‘EasyBed’ as standard. The clever ‘SmartLounge’ concept provides comfort, attractiveness and practicality, seeing the two bench seats easily transformed into comfortable seats for road travel (Isofix certified). The ‘EasyBed’ system lets you raise or lower the bed to adjust the size of the garage area. Use a crank to adjust the size of the area; make it higher to transport bikes, or lower for bags and camping equipment.
The 644 less than 7m long, boasts a unique layout with five forward-facing seats for travel and a transverse double bed at the back that can be lifted to provide access to the garage underneath. The face-to-face lounge in the front includes five travel seats (with one facing backwards and a drop-down double bed.
The 777GA meanwhile, is similar to the 788 (again, less than 7.2m in length) with large twin beds (at 90cm wide) and a huge, 2159-litre garage.
All of these models are available in the three unique, Chausson ‘strengths’:
First Line, Titanium VIP and Titanium Premium.
The First Line range takes the Chausson classic layouts and gives them an exciting, new, fresh interior, complete with an award-winning Ford based chassis and all the essential equipment as standard, at an unbeatable price.
Titanium VIP includes the First Line equipment but boasts more functionalities. A 140hp engine, automatic gearbox, grey side panels and 16-inch alloy wheels and Traction+. Titanium is a legendary series from Chausson, combining great design with a full range of equipment. This exceptional series is available for the first time as a VIP version, a level of equipment which not only offers the essentials as standard but also a large number of features which will make your life easier on holiday.
Titanium Premium has all the First line and Titanium VIP specs but includes a 170hp engine with an improved luxury entrance door, wraparound cab blinds, more comfortable mattress with premium furniture and textiles, and an extractor fan skylight in rear bedroom.
AIB warmly welcomes Jordan Gibbons to our Sales team. Jordan will be working closely with Sales Director, Kirby De Gray Birch, developing all aspects of a long established, fast growing insurance broker.
Whitely born and bred Jordan previously worked in the motor industry for a shipping company, dealing with the import and export of motor vehicles. This has given him a sound grounding in customer service to deal with our range of products from motor and home insurance, through to travel and commercial client’s needs. If you need motor insurance please give Jordan and the team a call: 02380 268351
FAST FACTS:
Not only a dab hand with a pair of scissors and a set of clippers (he cuts his own hair), Jordan also has a sound understanding of mechanics, having built his own motorcycle from scratch – a two stroke Derbi Senda. Multi skilled and very talented! A real petrol head, Jordan drives an Audi S5 which he has modified and remapped to 450bhp. Last year, he drove her on a road trip of a lifetime to Amsterdam.
WE SAY:
“Jordan joins an exciting team and is quickly learning all aspects of the role. With a natural love and knowledge of cars, especially modified, he enjoys chatting to our clients and has already insured members of his family and a couple of friends who are extremely pleased with his service and our product.”
At AIB we pride ourselves on the quality of our staff: their great personalities, extensive knowledge of the market and their highly professional approach to work. They build solid and long lasting relationships with both our clients and insurer partners, backed by our full encouragement and resource, ensuring they reach their fullest potential.
Despite the challenges of this past year, AIB continues to grow rapidly. We are currently looking for additional like-minded sales and customer service staff. If you want to pursue a rewarding career in a satisfying but demanding environment, or know someone who does, please send us your CV: info@aib.co.uk
We interviewed Kirby from AIB Insurance, a motorhome, campervan and RV specialist to talk about the latest happenings in the world of insurance:
Are you seeing anything interesting with Motorhome and Camper claims?
The last 24 months have been challenging times for insurers with motorhome, RV’s and camper thefts on the increase. Take North Wales for example – police recently revealed that 30 vehicles worth over a million pounds had been stolen over the past 16 months. They believe thieves in that area were mainly targeting Fiat Ducato and Peugeot Boxer motorhomes using technology widely available on the Internet to override the manufacturer’s security measures that included the electronic immobiliser.
On a national basis though, Ford continues to be the vehicle of choice for most thieves. Our insurance partner Ageas Insurance tells me Ford manufactured motorhomes make up less than 6% of their motorhome book but the theft rate is ridiculously high. There is no pattern as to where the motorhomes are kept, how long they have been owned or the level of security measures as they’ve seen a variety of scenarios. They have had over £350,000 worth of Fords stolen last year alone which is why they took the decision to work out what model ranges/years of manufacture were affected and decline them.
According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), motor theft claims have increased by 20% in 2019 and motor theft claims paid by insurers in the first quarter of this year were at their highest for any quarter since 2012 with a payment made relating to vehicle crime every eight minutes. The ABI claims that the increase is in part being driven by keyless car crime whereby hi-tech criminals are able to bypass keyless technology in as little as 20 seconds. This would certainly seem to be the case with a large number of motorhome thefts as an increasing number are being stolen when they are parked on driveways.
Has this seen the cost of insurance increase?
Historically, motorhomes have been rated on three main factors: year, engine size and value (ignoring left hand drives, imports and modified vehicles etc.). Over the last 12 months, three major motorhome insurers, Aviva, Ageas and Markerstudy have taken the unusual steps to load the premium further or even decline specific years of manufacturer, especially Ford.
Generally, motorhome and campervan insurance rates have remained stagnant apart from specific manufacturers. DIY conversions tend to cost more to insure than a coach built one.
So how can owners prevent a vehicle being stolen?
If your motorhome is stolen, having the right insurance policy in place will mean that you can at least have the peace of mind of knowing that you’ll be compensated financially for your loss. However, an insurance payout can never compensate you for the inconvenience and disruption that vehicle theft causes.
The good news is that most theft is opportunistic and thieves generally don’t like to work too hard. So, if they see a motorhome fitted with wheel locks, steering or handbrake locks or wheel clamps, it may be enough to put them off. Of course, you can go further by installing an alarm, immobiliser, a tracking device or even installing PIR lights trained on your parking space that illuminate when they sense movement.
What should people look out for when insuring a motorhome, RV or campervan?
It is vital, that you take out appropriate motorhome insurance and select a policy that will cover all your needs.
Motorhome insurance is not like car insurance, it requires specialist knowledge and as such, you should speak to a specialist motorhome insurance provider. Most specialists will provide additional European cover, additional contents cover and cover for gas cylinders, generators and awnings.
We would encourage you to purchase legal expenses as, if you find yourself in a dispute, legal fees can be expensive. Likewise, breakdown cover can be challenging as non-specialist providers may place a height, length or weight restriction on the vehicle they cover.
Another thing to mention when buying cover, is the level of windscreen glass cover that the specific policy your purchasing provides. Many insurers restrict the windscreen cover to £500-£1000 but an owner of an A-Class could be left short and should seek insurers that provide unlimited glass cover.
The motorhome market continues to grow especially relating to the sale of higher value models that cost over £100,000 and that represents a different risk for insurers if they go missing.
What is happening in the classic car world – are vehicles still going up in value?
The classic vehicle market is renowned for its stability and consistency and the VW campervan is a prime example of that. Over the past 10 years, classic vehicle values have been consistently going up, outperforming just about everything I can think of apart from vintage wine. I’d argue that classic vehicles are a better investment here too as it’s possible to use them without instantly destroying their value!
That said, at the top end of the market such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and the like, it looks as though we’re finally seeing the pace slowing and interest levels cooling.
One element of this could be uncertainty. When it comes to high value classics, it’s a global market. Investors may simply be less prepared to spend big at a time of trade wars and uncertain future trading arrangements.
The classic vehicle market is forever evolving as new cars become classics as each year passes.
What’s your favourite classic within the motorhome and campervan arena?
I love the 1967 BMC Princess – it looks bonkers. Whilst it looks like a DIY conversion, it was actually coach-built on a Vanden Plas Princess chassis but was unusually modern for it’s time enjoying power steering and an automatic transmission. Another favourite would be the VW T25 hightop campervan. Again, it looks so cool and I can imagine myself sitting in it with a hot cup of tea on a cold day looking out over the ocean.
Airsports Insurance Bureau (AIB) the specialist insurance broker of niche and high net worth insurance products, are delighted to announce our new team member, Ellie Basi.
Ellie joins our busy sales team, having just completed an Art Degree at Cardiff University. She will now learn every aspect of a predominantly personal lines insurance broker, including motor insurance, travel and home.
A delighted Ellie said: “I’m really pleased to have been given this opportunity in a successful growing business to start my career. I was recommended to the company by my friend Laura and together with my natural interest in cars I can’t wait to get stuck in”.
Ellie was born in Lymington, enjoys drawing and is learning to play the drums. Her claim to fame is attending the audition for the main part in the movie blockbuster, ‘The Golden Compass’ starring Nicole Kidman, Sam Elliott and Ian McKellen. Having stood in line for 8 hours, she was desperate for the toilet and when she returned, had missed her audition slot and chance of fame and fortune!
In other news, Laura Brown has been promoted from our administration department into a sales role and will join Ellie throughout their training.
Laura joined the business in February. Her hard work and effort, combined with her natural passion for customer service, has seen her very quickly take the next step up in our business.
Kirby De-Gray Birch commented: “Laura has been an asset and given 100% from day one. She’s picked up the role incredibly fast and with her inquisitive personality, was soon taking on more responsibility. She’s been a real credit to herself and deserves the opportunity to further develop her career”.
At AIB we take pride in the quality of staff we recruit. We nurture and develop talent, with the tools and resources needed at their disposal. Our consultants are able to build strong professional relationships with clients and insurers alike. They are encouraged to reach their full potential, including taking further industry education qualifications in a rewarding but demanding environment.
Here at AIB Insurance, we have an extensive panel of closely vetted insurance partners enabling us to tailor-make policies for our valued customers. We are pleased to announce that we have recently added another partner to our panel – First Underwriting Ltd.
First Underwriting was established in 2011 and has built a reputation for providing a high level of service along with a quality range of insurance products through select insurance brokers like us. Its main insurance partner is Accredited Insurance (Europe) Ltd that is apparently excellently rated by AM Best that provides credit ratings for the insurance industry worldwide.
First Underwriting is supported by NSM Insurance Services that is apparently one of the biggest specialist broking and underwriting groups located over in the United States of America. It is said that NSM Insurance Services is backed by a company listed on the NYSE called White Mountains Ltd.
First Underwriting Ltd’s specialist range of motor insurance policies include cover for the likes of prestige cars, fleet motors, rural vehicles, passenger vehicles and vans. As you can see, it provides cover for a wide range of motor vehicles.
In addition, it can also arrange buildings and contents insurance for a range of property types including, premium – covering standard risks, premier – covering unusual risks and speciality – covering long term unoccupied and residential lets.
Motor insurance claims are dealt with by its partner WNS Assistance and household insurance claims by its partner Claims Consortium Group.
We are extremely pleased to say that our experience to date when dealing with First Underwriting has been nothing but positive. The company’s staff are quick to respond to enquiries at every stage of the insurance process from initial quotation, setting up the policy to dealing with renewals. We are sure that our working relationship will benefit all concerned but, in particular, our valued clients.
AIB Launch Classic Car Offering
AIB is proud to announce the launch of our non-standard per...
The Elan +2 was introduced in 1967 with a longer wheelbase and 2 rear seats. 5,200 Elan +2were made. The Elan +2 ceased production in 1975. Because of its successful design and rigorous attention to cost control on the body, chassis, engine and transmission, the Elan went on to become Lotus’ first commercial success, reviving a company stretched thin by the more exotic and expensive to build Lotus Elite enabling funding of the Lotus success in racing over the next ten years.
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