Simon Harris
@simonharris
Not that Simon Harris. Nor that one. Editor of Fleet World/EV Fleet world. Automotive market analyst. Chair, the Guild of Motoring Writers. Chair, Welsh Motoring Writers. Cars: Kia EV5 (on test); Mini Cooper SE (own); 1993 Jaguar XJ12 (own).
The first K13 Nissan Micra I’ve seen deployed for takeaway delivery. After the sterling service of the K11, and incremental replacement by the K12, this represents a momentous changing of the guard in the UK.
Tomorrow will be the XJ12’s 33rd birthday. It’s been treated to a new set of Michelin Primacy 5 tyres, and a fresh MOT.
Drove the new Mazda 6e last week on splendid roads in North Wales. Loved it. Report coming soon in EV Fleet World.
New Toyota Hilux 2.8 D4-D 48V Hybrid and Toyota Hilux BEV. High and mighty or strong, silent type.
He also reminded me of a story he covered in the mid-1990s when NatWest replaced branch managers’ Jaguars with Ford Mondeos as a cost-saving measure – apparently causing absolute uproar at the time, and gaining coverage in the Daily Mail and Financial Times in an era before online records existed.
It was a reminder of how different the fleet ecosystem was then – when many company car lists were effectively Ford, Vauxhall or Rover, and drivers pushing for more choice helped open the door to cars like the Volkswagen Golf and BMW 3 Series becoming mainstream fleet staples.
Still making progress on my book about the history of the UK company car and the policies that shaped it. Last week I had a fascinating lunch with Ashley Martin, who edited Fleet News through much of the 1990s – and appointed me as a reporter in 2000.
Probably an illustration of shrinkflation, as well as gouging by Kraft/Cadbury and supermarkets. Three years ago the standard bag of Mini Eggs weighed 90g and cost £1. Now, it’s 74g and costs £2. The ‘family pack’ weighed 296g three years ago and costs £3. Now it’s 256g and £5.50.
If anyone in the industry is looking for a bit of consultancy or a fresh pair of eyes on their new model specification, pricing and strategy, do get in touch. Wishing everyone a splendid Christmas break and a much smoother 2026. Thanks again for being in my corner.
And congratulations to all of the finalists, and the winners. Here’s to an exciting year ahead for the Guild. 📸 Jakob Ebrey
A big thank you to Melissa Chadderton, Richard Netherwood and Richard Aucock for delivering such a successful evening, and to the committee for its constant support throughout the year. None of this happens without a true team effort, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’re achieving. 📸 Jakob Ebrey
I’m genuinely privileged to be chair at a time of real change and growing momentum within the Guild. The energy and commitment from everyone involved is inspiring, and events like last night dinner just how strong our community is. 📸 Jakob Ebrey
What a fantastic night at The Guild of Motoring Writers Awards. It was a pleasure to see so many friends, colleagues and supporters come together to celebrate the very best in automotive journalism. 📸 Jakob Ebrey
Bsky has been brought to you today by the letters X and J, and by the number 12. Last pic by @andrewbrady.bsky.social.
My Mini notified me about a “surprise” to be found in the apps section.
When choice leads to confusion: how range complexity can undermine residual values. We all know variety can help a model appeal to more customers. Equipment grades, powertrain choices, and option packs can capture a wider audience, and this can also translate to stronger appeal as a used car.
Washed ready for my first meet with Spalding and East Elloe Classic Car Club tomorrow. #Caturday
Discovered my village is getting a milk round. EVs and recyclable glass bottles are all a bit zeitgeisty, but I’ll play along and see how it goes.
A few tiny jobs pencilled in for the end of the year, but generally healthy. Looking forward to enjoying the rest of the summer.
I spotted a German-registered XJ12 last week and noticed it had a different grille. I wondered if the black XJ12 grille had been damaged and had to be replaced with a standard one.