The Kinetic Brief Jan 26 Edition

Welcome to the Kinetic Brief

Happy New Year and welcome to the latest edition of the Kinetic Brief.

The year has got off to a strong start at Kinetic, with plenty of activity across both company cars and commercial vehicles. We’ve already delivered a wide mix of vehicles to customers and are seeing continued momentum in the market, particularly around EVs and well-priced stock vehicles.

Below is a quick update on what we’re seeing in the market, a spotlight on some recent customer deliveries, and a short out-of-office update.

Market Insight: Used Car and Van Demand Remains Strong

The UK used car and van market has continued to perform strongly, with recent industry data showing robust year-end trading activity across multiple segments. Demand has remained particularly healthy for well-specified cars, SUVs and light commercial vehicles, helping to support residual values despite wider economic pressures.

For leasing and fleet customers, this strength in the used market is significant. Stronger used values play a key role in how leasing rates are calculated, and sustained demand helps funders remain competitive on pricing. It also means fleets approaching replacement or disposal are often in a better position than they may expect.

Importantly, this activity is not limited to one vehicle type. Both cars and vans are seeing consistent interest, driven by ongoing supply constraints in previous years and continued demand from retail and trade buyers.

What this means for customers:
Businesses with vehicles coming up for replacement may benefit from more competitive leasing rates and stronger disposal values than anticipated. It reinforces the importance of reviewing options early rather than assuming the market is flat or unfavourable.

Source: Fleet News – BCA reports strong year-end trading for used cars and vans

EV Insight: Battery Degradation Is Less of a Concern Than Many Think

Battery longevity remains one of the most common concerns when businesses consider switching to electric vehicles. However, recent research reported by Fleet News paints a more reassuring picture of how modern EV batteries perform in real-world conditions.

The study shows that most electric vehicle batteries retain a high percentage of their original capacity after several years of use, with degradation occurring far more gradually than many drivers expect. Advances in battery management systems, thermal control and charging technology have all contributed to improved long-term performance.

This data is particularly relevant for business and company car drivers, where vehicles are often replaced every three to four years — well within the period where battery health remains strong.

What this means for customers:
Concerns around range loss and long-term usability are becoming less valid, especially when combined with improving real-world ranges and very low company car tax. EVs continue to strengthen their case as a practical and cost-effective option for many businesses.

Source: Fleet News – How much electric vehicle batteries degrade revealed in new study

Recent Customer Deliveries

It’s been a busy start to the year with a range of vehicles delivered across different sectors, including electric cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles.

Thank you to all our customers for trusting Kinetic Vehicle Leasing with their vehicle requirements — we really appreciate your continued support.

Out of the Office

Outside of work, Co-founder Callum and his partner Kristin have signed up to run the Edinburgh Marathon later this year to raise money for a cancer charity close to their hearts.

A close friend of Kristin’s has recently been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Through this challenge, we’re hoping to raise funds to support vital research and patient support, as well as raise awareness of the condition.

If you’d like to find out more or support the cause, you can read our story and donate via our JustGiving page below:

👉 https://www.justgiving.com/page/kristinandcallum

Any support, shares, or encouragement would be hugely appreciated.