Trade plates driving really slowly

[Fishfire]

On my way home today, was behind three cars, all the same, all with trade plates and looked like some kind of plastic wrap stuff over the cars. Presumably new cars being transported.

But the strange thing was, they were driving about 20 miles an hour all the way. I couldn't over take because of three in a row, so was behind for a while. Some of it was 30 but there were plenty of 40 stretches and even 50 for a while! Why were they driving so slowly? They all had their hazard lights on constantly, so it seemed purposeful.

Anyone shed any light?

Anyone know about this?

First thought would be breaking in new engines, bedding in brakes and tires.
But doubt this is a standard practice in this day and age.

Second, possibly that the manufacturers has put black box limiters on them pre sale to deter poor behavior during PDI's. (pre delivery inspections)

Third, they're en route to somewhere, one's developed a problem and is limping there and they're staying in convoy.

All just guesses.

Thanks, better than I could do! It seems weird to put such a low limit on them, and if they were testing, they could have at least stuck to 30 roads and not done the 40 or 50 ones. I think the one with a problem makes most sense but it would surely make more sense to pull off and get it sorted properly rather than carry on, didn't seem very safe really.

To prevent damage by chips and potholes?

Was it a black and white wrap like checkerplate/zebra?

Were they wrapped for protection from damage or as a disguise (i.e. were you able to determine the make/model)?
Manufacturers use a version of the old "dazzle" camouflage to disguise new models when developing & road testing them.
Whereabouts in the UK was this? Near development centers it is really common to see soon to be launched models out & about.

They were plain white wrapped, I could still make out the Skoda sign under the wrap but it was less obvious than usual (I had a long time to look at them!) so assume that means protection?

It was in Hampshire so possibly could have been delivered to the docks?