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Halfords takes a positive lead on start/stop batteries

From today the growing number of car owners whose vehicles incorporate start/stop technology will be able to have their batteries checked and replaced without making a costly trip to a franchised dealership thanks to Halfords.

The UK's leading automotive parts and accessories retailer is expanding its extensive range of car batteries to include more durable, high performance variants required for vehicles with start/stop capability - making it the first national retailer to sell and fit them.

Delivering the training, diagnostic equipment and products to over 460 stores represents a business investment of over £500,000 but one which Halfords believes will capitalise on the opportunity that the growing number of ‘micro hybrid' vehicles on UK roads presents.

Dave Poulter, Head of Trading at Halfords, said: "Just like the drivers of more conventional vehicles, we believe that the estimated 1.5m million owners of start/stop vehicles in the UK should be able to shop around in search of good value in order to keep their motoring costs to a minimum.

"Given that rising fuel prices and a desire to save money are likely to have driven them to choose a start/stop enabled vehicle in the first place, it is absurd that until now owners have had little option but to return to a main dealer or specialist garage - who charge a premium - for something as simple as a replacement battery."

According to current estimates from Halfords battery supplier Yuasa, the ability of start/stop vehicles to save fuel and cut emissions to help vehicle manufacturers meet tough EU fleet targets mean that around 45% of all vehicles on the road will feature start/stop technology by 2020 - with around 50% of all new cars now having it fitted as standard.

With most start/stop batteries only guaranteed for 1 year by vehicle manufacturers (including those offering 3-5-7 year warranties) and complex engine management systems making DIY fitting impossible without the correct diagnostic equipment, Halfords believes there is a clear need for an independent solution for motorists in search of value for money.

Dave Poulter added: "Our research places us anywhere between 20% and 40% cheaper than a main dealer - depending upon the vehicle brand."

Initially all Halfords stores will stock two AGM (absorbant glass mat) battery variants - like those fitted as original equipment to models including the BMW Mini and 1 Series from 2007 onwards - which are compatible with the vast majority of micro hybrids.

Halfords stop/start batteries are made by Yuasa and priced at £174.98 including fitting for the 096 AGM* and £199.98 for the 019 AGM.