SANTA is being given the option of a modern makeover for his sleigh – based around some famous car brands.
First up is a concept inspired by the famous MINI Cooper, with the latest model far roomier and so able to hold many more presents than the 60s original.
Another classic design choice might be the Volkswagen Beetle, which aside from looking curvy and cute, should be highly reliable and well built.
Tesla, with its electric and autonomous vehicle technology and links to Space X, might be best placed to produce a functioning Santa sleigh in reality. It would use anti-gravity technology instead of traditional snow runners.
Of course, speed is of the essence for Santa on his global Christmas run, so he might prefer a version based on the Nissan GT-R supercar.
Then again, given the harsh environment of the North Pole, a rugged but luxurious Range Rover sleigh might be the best choice.
The Christmas sleigh automotive redesigns were dreamed up by Bristol Street Motors, part of the same dealership group as Scotland’s Macklin Motors.
And if you’re struggling to keep the children entertained during the festive season, you can visit www.bristolstreet.co.uk/news/ to download and print “colouring book” versions of the images.
Of course, Christmas is often a popular time of year for young drivers to get their first set of wheels.
And the same major car retailer has also been finding out how vital the automotive bank of mum and dad can be for motorists aged 18 to 34.
The survey found parents helped 53 per cent of young people buy their car – with men getting less financial help than women.
A sum of £5000 was the most popular amount (15 per cent), although seven per cent got £10,000 and a further lucky nine per cent got £20,000.
The data also revealed that 38 per cent of female motorists said they had received at least £5000 compared with only 24 per cent of males.
Meanwhile, 14 per cent of the younger generation have all of their car insurance paid for by their parents, while a further nine per cent get help with the cost.
And more than 10 per cent of parents save their kids about £1170 a year in running costs such as MOTs and servicing.
Statistics show a 17 to 24-year-old buying their first car could expect to fork out about £6600. They’ll spend £4276 on the car, £2204 on insurance, £55 on the MOT and £25 on car tax.
