New 76 plates hit Truro, and three things to check first

A fresh batch of number plates rolls out every September and March, and for a few weeks it turns forecourts across the county into one of the busiest places in town. This month it is Truro‘s turn, as the new 76 registration plate reaches showrooms and online listings and drivers start weighing up whether it is time to change their car.

Tom Rothwell, General Manager at Vertu Volvo Truro on Threemilestone Industrial Estate, has put together three tips to help make that decision a bit easier, whether someone is upgrading, buying their first car or considering a switch to electric.

“With the new 76 registration plate now on the roads, September is a popular time for motorists to consider changing their car,” Tom said. “Buying a new car is a significant decision, so it’s important to look beyond the initial price and think about what will work best for your lifestyle, from practicality and running costs to the technology and features you’ll use every day. Our team is here to help drivers across Truro explore their options and find a vehicle that’s right for them.”

Choose a car that fits your lifestyle

The first tip is to think about how a car will actually be used before settling on a model, whether that is the school run, a daily commute or longer family trips.

“From family trips and daily commutes to longer journeys, drivers should consider how they will use their vehicle before deciding which model is right for them,” Tom said. “Taking a test drive before making a final decision is one of the best ways to understand whether a car is right for you. It gives you the opportunity to experience the comfort, technology and overall driving experience first-hand.”

Consider switching to electric

Electric vehicles are the second area Tom is urging drivers to think about, pointing to figures showing how far the shift towards EVs has already come.

“With recent data revealing that 46% of UK drivers are likely to choose an EV as their next car, and EV sales continuing to grow year on year, it’s worth considering the benefits of making the switch,” Tom said, referencing a 2025 Automotive Insights and Research Services report.

“Eligible households can access government grants of up to £500 towards the cost of installing a home charging point. Drivers considering the latest Volvo EX30 can also take advantage of our £1,500 charging grant.”

Charging availability is worth thinking through too, according to Tom. “If you’re considering going electric, it’s also important to think about charging availability. There are now more than 119,000 public charging points across the UK, including more than 27,000 rapid or ultra-rapid chargers,” he said, citing research by Pod Energy. “Apps including the Volvo Cars app can also help drivers find charging points locally or plan where to charge along their journey.”

Make the most of retailer expertise

The final tip is simply to go and see the cars in person rather than deciding from a screen.

“Visiting a retailer in person can be a valuable part of the purchasing process, particularly for drivers who are choosing between a few options,” Tom said. “Seeing the vehicles up close, taking a test drive and discussing available offers can help clarify which model is best suited to their needs. Our experts are on hand to explain the features and benefits of each model, as well as provide guidance on current incentives and finance options. We want to take the stress out of what can sometimes feel like a daunting decision and make choosing a new car an enjoyable experience.”

Anyone wanting to talk it through can contact Vertu Volvo Truro on 01872 300653 or visit volvocars.com/truro.