Richard Parry-Jones, one of the leading automotive engineers in the industry, has made a prediction that the eco-friendly cars which will be available by the end of this decade will be as efficient as an electric train. Parry-Jones, who once worked for Ford and is currently the chairman of Network Rail and the head of the Automotive Council, made this statement during a recent transport conference held in London.

Toyota Prius Hybrid Car

He went on to say that the automotive manufacturing industry is aiming to achieve a carbon emission rate of 40g/km; given that the average number of passengers in a car is 1.6, this works out at just 25g/km per person, a figure which is not dissimilar to that of the most eco-friendly electric trains running today. Parry-Jones declared this a ‘remarkable development’ when one considers that the average emission just 12 years ago was 140g/km.

Today, the Toyota Prius, Plug-in Hybrid, is considered to be one of the most efficient cars on the market; this vehicle has a C02 emission rate of 49g/km. The Prius model is currently available in Europe, Japan and the USA and uses a surprisingly small amount of petrol, at 2.1L/100km.  The new plug-in hybrid differs from the conventional Prius in that it comes with a much larger battery, which is can be fully charged within just 90 minutes. A battery with full power can then be used for running the car for about 15.5 miles and once it becomes depleted, the car’s standard piston engine automatically begins to run, and can charge the battery once more while the car is on the move.

There are many other manufacturers who are catching up with Toyota’s technology and ultra efficient cars are expected to be more commonplace over the coming decade. The CEO of Volkswagen, Martin Winterkorn, announced just last year, during the Qatar motor show, that the company were in the process of producing a small line of vehicles which will be based on a low emission diesel engine, which when in the combined cycle uses no more than 0.9L/100km, making it four times more efficient than its current Toyota Prius rival.

In the transport conference in London, Parry-Jones commented on the rise of new technology in cars, and predicted that vehicles with in-built traffic management devices and inter-communicative abilities will be available in the near future. He also discussed the idea of networks of vehicles which are digitally controlled under a single system. However, all of these potential advances in automotive technology will be dependent on financial initiatives. Manufacturing companies are now hoping to attract more funding for such projects from private investors.

Article sponsored by www.carwarranty.co.uk.

For anyone who learnt to drive in the UK, there’s a fairly a high chance that you will have done so in a Vauxhall Corsa. There are some good reasons why driving schools like this famous super-mini, but their admiration is not necessarily conducive to a ‘sexy’ image!

That said, I think the compact, smart design of the Corsa is actually quite attractive. Plus, it has so many other benefits, not least fuel efficiency and cheap running costs, that no-one should rule it out just because it was their first experience of driving!

New Vauxhall Corsa Review

Exterior Styling

Although it’s fair to say that the Corsa has a pretty no-nonsense design, it has been well done. Available in 3 or 5-door models, the Corsa has an organized, solid look about it.

There’s a recognizable chrome bar across the front grille, complete with Griffin badge. The lower grille has been enlarged for this latest model, giving an effect of a smiling face (well, I leave you to make your own mind up about that one!). Chrome finished headlights round off the front of the car neatly.

Is It Fun To Drive?

Vauxhall have made quite a big deal of the ‘fun’ element of the Corsa in their promotion of the car. But does that have any connection with reality, or is it just an empty advertizing line?

Well, in actual fact, the Corsa can indeed be a lot of fun on the right roads.  There are some really nice pieces of engineering that have contributed to this. The ride height, damping, suspension and steering have all been retuned to good effect. The electric power-assisted steering, in particular, gives great control at high speeds.

The ABS system (anti-lock braking system) is pretty sophisticated.  Any hint of slide when cornering and the ABS kicks in to apply the perfect amount of braking to each wheel to correct things. The same technology comes into force when the Corsa goes off course when braking in a straight line. This both produces a high level of control and adds to the safety of the car.

When driving the new Vauxhall Corsa I’ve also found that it is beautifully quiet inside. There’s very little rattling of any kind. Combined with the power assisted, this really does create a feeling of stability when driving the Corsa.

How Does It Look and Function Inside?

Most Corsas are pretty vibrant and fun inside, thanks to the available colour combinations. You can even choose to match up the trims for the dash and doors.

The cockpit has been well thought out ergonomically, with everythything in easy reach. Heated seats are a brilliant feature, as is – wait for it…the heated steering wheel! Don’t scoff, it’s actually a godsend on those chilly winter days when you’re hands are so cold you’re constantly taking them off the wheel to warm them up.  This heated wheel system is unique amongst super-minis.

What about the entertainment system? It’s equipped with: radio, iPod connection, USB point, traffic info, Blue tooth connectivity and a 5” touch-screen display. All this, along with really nice finishing on the centre console and dash, actually makes the Corsa feel quite upmarket.

The back seats are deceptively roomy, both for head and leg space. Plus they can be angled back if the passenger fancies a kip! The boot is similarly spacious for such a small car. In fact, it has more space than just about any other vehicle in the same class.

Is It Safe!?

Yes. The Corsa is one of the safest super-minis around. It’s outstanding performance under safety tests is in no small part down to a very robust passenger cell. There also 6 airbags, including curtain airbags, for maximum safety upon impact. The Corsa was awarded the full 5 Star Euro NCAP safety award.

Summary

So I hope I’ve persuaded you that your driving instructor wasn’t boring for choosing a Corsa, but actually knew what she was about! The latest model is fun to drive, with responsive handling and strong road hold even at speed.

You might be surprised at just how much of a premium feel there is to the cockpit, from the Infotainment system to the heated steering wheel! It’s practical too, and makes a good passenger car even when there’s luggage to be transported.

Author

Josh Austin works for County Motor Works, who have been car dealers in Essex since 1907.

Driving experience day

Let me explain, I am getting the chance to drive 4 of the following quite simply awesome cars for 3 laps each round the Blyton Park racing circuit. The cars I get to choose from on the day are the Audi R8, Nissan GT-R, Ariel Atom, Lamborghini Gallardo, Ferrari 360, Porsche 911 Turbo or Aston Martin V8 Vantage as part of a fantastic four driving experience. It’s the sort of thing that petrol headed individuals dream of and thankfully something which more and more can now do thanks to experience days like the one I’m going on.

Do not despair though, the experiences are not limited to selections of cars, if one specific brand floats yours or someone you knows boat, you can get some dedicated time in that car only. For example if you have a penchant for the raging bull marque then how about a Lamborghini driving experience to really scratch the mad Italian itch?

Me however I’ll be driving 4 supercars, will I be able to handle over twice the power of a Golf GTI 4 times over? Come back in a few weeks to hear how I got on!

In the UK having your own transport is essential, especially if you intend to regularly travel large distances. Unfortunately, as our roads continue to get ever busier, those facing a daily commute risk arriving at work stressed and unable to tackle the day in front of them. Congestion on UK roads has seen typical daily commutes rise to record times, not to mention the hassle involved in finding a parking space at your destination. Many are considering ditching their car, and are investigating other methods of transport. If you live close to your workplace then a bicycle may be an option, but if your commute involves serious travel then you may wish to consider investing in a motorcycle. So, what are the benefits of such a move? Is motorbike insurance cheaper? Will I get more miles per gallon?

Two wheels better than four for commuting?

Save fuel and the environment.

An alarming amount of car journeys in the UK involve only one traveller. The result of such inefficient journeys is a wasting of fuel and the increase in overall environmental damage from CO2 emissions. A typical motorcycle will deliver a 50% better mileage for the same amount of fuel, so over time you can generate significant savings and help reduce your CO2 footprint.

Put the fun back into driving.

On a sunny day nothing can beat the freedom that a motorcycle journey can deliver. A quick and nimble machine can allow you to explore and find new places that you love. If you’re going to have to commute every day then why not make it a fun experience?

Cut down that commute.

A motorbike is an excellent machine for reducing travel times. No longer will you have to stare jealously at other motorcyclists as they overtake you, effortlessly cutting their way through congested roads. Many of our most congested roads allow motorcyclists to use the lanes that are reserved for coaches or carpool drivers significantly reducing journey time. A motorbike can also reduce the stressful and tedious task of parking in our busy cities as most cities provide parking spaces specifically for two-wheeled transport in an effort to encourage drivers to travel in this fashion.

Save money

One of the most striking differences between traveling by car and motorcycle is the cost of investment in your vehicle. Motorcycles come in a wide variety of models at different prices but in a cost comparison between a typical car and motorcycle there is no real competition. Drivers can also save money on their insurance, as bike insurance is typically a fraction of the cost of car insurance. It’s worth also considering taking an advanced motorcycling course as this will help reduce your premium and help you to travel in safety.

Join the gang

A sense of community exists between bike riders that, does not occur elsewhere. A motorbike offers the opportunity to make new friends and become part of a fraternity of enthusiasts sharing their favourite journeys. Companies such as MotorCycle Direct understand the needs of the modern bike owner.

A car accident is a traumatic enough experience without having to fight your own corner when it comes to a compensation claim.

Choosing the right accident claim solicitors

Once you have notified your insurance company that you have been involved in a crash, you will need to appoint a car accident claims solicitor. You are under no obligation to use the firm of lawyers your insurance company suggest. Whoever you appoint will deal directly with your insurance firm and contact other parties’ insurance companies to start your compensation claim.

In addition, they will also deal with police and any witnesses to the crash, as well as starting to assess what medical assistance you may require if you have been injured. A good lawyer will also advice you on all the losses you can claim for, for example loss of earnings, or loss of assistance in the home.

Having a good lawyer by your side is important. Although compensation claims vary in length, depending on the level of injuries and liability, a good guide is that claims are likely to be settled within 6-8 months, so it’s vital to find a lawyer that you trust and who is reliable. But which firm should you choose? How do you find the right solicitor?

Primarily, testimonials form a great indication. If friends, family or acquaintances have used, or have knowledge of a successful car accident solicitor, then that’s a great start.

Also, try to research whether the legal company has a good track record in dealing successfully with car accident claims such as yours. If it has, then chances are they will be likely to give you the services of a car accident lawyer with the expertise to deal with your claim successfully, too.

In addition, it’s also best to look at how much experience the car accident lawyer has in representing cases in court, should that be required. Remember, your case might not simply be settled out of court (although around 95% of cases are), so a lawyer with integrity and a good standing and reputation in court is much more likely to be able to settle your claim in your favour. Reputation is key.

But whichever firm you settle on, it’s important that you feel comfortable using their services and comfortable in the regular conversations you will be having with them.

Contact Clear Law Solicitors for more information regarding collision claims. The firm are experts in car accident claims.

First it was the Prius that really started the hybrid trend in the UK. Then along came the Honda Insight, the Lexus GS450h and other hybrid saloons. Hybrid SUVs also started trickling in, in the form of the Lexus RX450h and even a Porsche Cayenne hybrid, which certainly raised some eyebrows!

Peugeot 508RXh Review - Diesel / Electric Hybrid

BMW have also now got a hybrid 5-Series on offer and a myriad other manufacturers are jumping on the bandwagon. One of them is French car maker Peugeot, with their new 4×4 508RXH which is now available to order, for delivery in May.

The 508RXH diesel-electric hybrid crossover estate car is Peugeot’s answer to the Audi A6 and A4 Allroad models and the Skoda Octavia Scout, aiming to be a luxury, high-up, robust, go-anywhere kind of car. Complete with plastic bumpers and other 4×4 hints, the 508RXH will be able to confidently tackle various hilly or generally adventurous terrains – not that we suspect a great many of its future owners will take theirs of the beaten track.

Its primary market will be business people, so equipment and specifications need to be abundant. The 508RXH will therefore come kitted out with front and rear parking sensors, a parallel park system like that in the Ford Focus, sat nav, a panoramic glass roof, heavily sound-proofed side windows to keep the noise down, a USB socket and a HUD – leaving its owners wanting for nothing.

The 508RHX will also be supremely green, boasting very low emissions of just 107g/km. How does its ‘Hybrid4’ diesel-electric system work? The front wheels will be powered by Peugeot’s 163bhp 2-litre HDi engine and the back wheels will be powered by a 37bhp electric motor. Impressively (although we’re not sure how this will impact on pedestrians!) the Peugeot 508RXH will be capable of running in fully silent and electric ‘ZEV’ mode.

It won’t be a slow-coach either, producing 200bhp. For all you corporate customers, Business In Kind for the 508RXH will be low too at just 12%, with combined economy expected at 68.9mpg.

So will the influx of hybrid cars in all shapes and sized from various car manufacturers, affect the extended car warranty market of tomorrow? It’s hard to say for certain, and many extended second hand car warranty firms don’t currently provide warranty cover for hybrid vehicles due to their expensive, complex and still relatively unchartered battery systems. But it’s fair to assume that hybrid and also fully electric cars will start shaping used car warranty packages at some point soon, as this is certainly where the future of the automotive industry is headed.

In the meantime, you can count on leading used car warranty experts like Warrantywise to continue to provide exceptional levels of cover to owners of all makes and models of conventional diesel and petrol cars

Audi Cabriolet

If you live in the UK you’ll be aware that summer is coming, especially bearing in mind the fact that we had (in 2012) some fantastic weather in March. With this good weather many people’s minds turn to the possibility of buying a soft top ‘cabriolet’,  just so they can soak up the sun and feel the wind in their hair.

But, if you feel this way (as I do), how do you go about choosing the right soft top car? The choice is larger than you think, except if you must have a ‘hard’ soft top, as the options here are somewhat reduced.  So perhaps the first thing to consider is what sort of ‘top’ you want..

The Types of Roofs for Cabriolets

Basically you have three choices here;  the true ‘soft top’ with it’s fabric roof, the ‘hard top’ with its metal folding roof, and finally the cars that have a detachable roof (normally hard). I have put these into a third group as to me they are really just open top sports cars which have the ability to have a roof added.

Which Roof Type to Choose?

So what are the advantages of the different types of roof?

The classic soft top (also known as the ‘rag top’) has the benefits of being light, but on the other hand can be easily damaged by vandals, is not as quiet and the fabric needs to be well looked after.

The folding metal roof has the disadvantage of heavy weight, both the roof and the motors that move it into place being far heavier than with a soft top. However, they are quieter and offer better protection in the event of an accident too. For some, they have the added benefit of making the car look like a normal coupe or saloon when the roof is up.

The detachable roof is of course ok if you can decide what you want before you set off, but in the Uk, the weather can change so quickly and being caught in a downpour with no roof cannot be a pleasant experience..

What Type of Engine / Transmission?

As with any car, there is the choice of petrol and diesel (electric soon no doubt) and automatic and manual gearboxes. For some the choice of transmission is easy, for others not so simple, some automatic gearboxes, like the ones fitted the VW’s being very nice indeed, offering an almost manual experience when wanted.

On the matter of engine type, it is said that convertible owners tend to shy away from diesel cars, they being thought to be too noisy when the top is down. Whilst this may be the case for older cars, modern diesels can be very quiet.

Other Matters to Consider

Once you have chosen the type of roof and engine, there is the small matter of the seat covers. This is indeed only a minor consideration, but making the wrong choice may prove uncomfortable, as having leather seats in high summer could turn the nice trip in the sun to a quite painful experience if you are not careful.

Whatever, once you have chosen the type of convertible you want, you then have to find one. The good news here is the advent of the car supermarket is making is easy for the buyers to view many cars at the same time.

Best of luck in your search for your perfect ‘topless’ car..

Land Rover Defender

Land Rover Defender - Tough and durable

If you’re looking for a car that simply isn’t afraid of anything, Hunters Land Rover Defender is the traditional, ground breaking car that every farmer and adventurer across the land yearns to own. Now equipped with a powerful 2.4 litre engine, the vehicle is guaranteed to get you where you’re going and how. Since 1948, there have been over 1.5 million Defenders produced and their popularity has never abated and with the new model just out, there’s no reason in the world why the Defender won’t make the perfect adventure car.

New additions to the car include a more efficient heating system that heats the cabin of the vehicle 40% quicker than before and can achieve a higher temperature by up to 12°C, making it perfect for if you’re going all Bear Grylls and decide to go it alone in the harshest of places in the desolate North Yorkshire Moors.

Land Rover Freelander

Of course, if the Land Rover Defender isn’t up your street, then the Freelander probably is. Both stylish and sleek, the Freelander is just raring to get dirt up its sides.

Accounting for 23% of all Land Rover sales since it was unveiled in 1997, the Freelander has continued to impress the masses with its ability of tackling all types of terrain, which makes it perfect for events such as the Hill & Ditch 4×4 Bank Holiday in Cheshire. With a five star adult safety rating issued by Euro NCAP and a four star Child occupant rating the car is also perfect for every day family events during the week; just don’t be surprised when you finally get the car off of the road and across those dirt tracks, because it will give you a 4×4 experience like no other.

Land Rover Discovery

Introduced in 1985, the Land Rover Discovery is one of the most popular and recognisable cars on the planet. Although extremely popular and robust in the city environment, it is a car that can only flex its muscles in the most challenging and beaten of terrains. With a 2.7 litre engine beneath the bonnet, there’s no adventure out there that the Discovery wouldn’t flinch at. With a maximum of 2558 litres of luggage room available, the car is excellent for those camping or festival weekends and can take a mountain of equipment without the slightest of worries.

Range Rover Sport

If you’re looking for the more sporting vehicle to tear up the ravines and smash through the cascades, the Range Rover Sport is the car for you. Hugely popular with footballers and adventurers alike, the Range Rover Sport offers a colossal 5.0 litre engine, which can reach 0-100mph in only fifteen seconds, that’s an amazing thought for a vehicle that weighs a total of 2.5 tonnes.

For those adventure days when you just want to impress everyone else on the course or rally, this is most probably the car to do it in. Also, you may be interested to know that once you’ve climbed all the mountains in the UK with the car, a typical three year old model with 30,000 miles on the clock can still be sold for 60% of its original value.

Range Rover

If traditional carnage and adventure is more to your taste, the Range Rover has been empowering and pursuing those white-knuckle terrains since its release in 1970. With its British 5.0 litre V8 engine there’s no reason why country or mountainside ventures cannot be taken in this beautiful vehicle. With more technological gadgetry than an Apple store, there’s no way you can get bored on your way to your Holiday. Why not for example, take the car on a specialised 4×4 holiday? With more than just a holiday to be had, 4×4 holidays provide more than just adventure, and there’s no reason not to have it in the newest Range Rover model.

What to do if you have an accident.

It was reported in September 2011 by The Department for Transport that 24,430 people were killed or seriously injured in road accidents last year.

1. Immediately inform the police

There are many reasons people don’t report accidents to the police. Perhaps they don’t want to get someone else in trouble, perhaps they feel that the accident isn’t ‘big enough’ or perhaps they just want the ordeal to be over and not have to talk about it anymore.

Despite the above, it is essential that you let the police know immediately. Not only does this help with insurance in the future, it is also your duty as a responsible citizen and feeds in to statistics.

2. Can I get a witness?

A witness is a valuable asset when making a claim further down the line. You may feel a bit stupid asking for a stranger’s phone number in the heat of the moment but it is essential that you do. Not only does this help with legal proceedings and validating a claim but a third party is proven to recall an incident better than the actual person involved.

3. Getting proper medical advice

The correct medical advice is essential, not only for your actual health but also for your insurance claim. It may be worth getting a second opinion. If you don’t get the correct treatment after the accident and then need further medical attention in years to come, you will risk not getting the compensation you deserve. For example, with whip lash or back problems, the extent of damage, needs to be correctly identified at the time of the accident, as a chiropractor 10 years down the line could be exceptionally expensive.

If you suspect misdiagnosis or mal treatment, then you can also investigate getting medical negligence compensation.

4.  A solicitor to suit you

The options for solicitors really are endless, so you need to make sure you find the correct one. A quick Google search in this case, probably won’t be the right option as they are all trying to sell themselves online. You could try a local advice agency such as a law centre or Citizens Advice Bureau, who should be able to recommend local solicitors who are experienced in the relevant area of law.

Or often the best way is through word of mouth, speak to your friends, they may have the best recommendation.

5.       Making that claim

The above steps should lead you to preparing to make a personal injury claim for compensation. If you contact a company, such as the Cooperative, you can speak to someone easily on the phone and discuss exactly how to make the claim.

This classic film combines British style (supplied by Michael Caine and a fleet of Mini Coopers) with Italian style (Lamborghini Miuras).

The film makers apparently struggled to get Mini’s car maker BMC to supply them with enough Mini Coopers. Despite the free publicity involved, BMC insisted on supplying many of the cars at trade price.

Hearing the situation Fiat stepped in to offer free cars but the producers stuck with the Mini Cooper and the rest is history.

2.   Bullitt (1968)

Set on the steep streets of San Francisco this film starred Steve McQueen and had an extended car chase which captured the imagination of cinema audiences. It is hard to see a picture of a 1968 Mustang GT 390 without hearing the jazzy soundtrack music running through your head.

3.   Christine (1983)

Cars can sometimes take on an almost-human quality and mirror, or indeed shape, the personality of their owner. This is a fact which is the central premise of the film Christine – an adaptation of a Stephen King novel in which a red-and-white Plymouth Fury named Christine seems to be ‘driving’ the thoughts and actions of its teenage owner.

This unusual horror film is a chilling reminder that it’s always best to try and find out a car’s previous history before buying one!

4.   Vanishing Point (1971)

A road movie is often only as good as the cars which star in it and luckily the producer of Vanishing Point had several 1970 Dodge Challenger 440 R/Ts at his disposal. The film’s plot tells the tale of a character named Kowalski as he tries to deliver a Dodge Challenge to a car dealer in record time. Kowalski’s ambition is under threat of being thwarted by the police but he does have the help of a blind DJ and his car’s power certainly gives him a head-start!

5.    Back to the Future (1985)

The character Doc Brown in the film Back to the Future was just the man to modify the DeLorean sport car – converting the vehicle with the gull-wing doors into a time machine capable of travelling back to 1955. Doc Brown’s tradition of modifying the car continues to this day – the only ‘new’ DeLorean cars you will see are re-manufactured versions of original models.

6.   Drive (2011)

This classy film is about an enigmatically-silent getaway driver who allows his clients just five minutes to carry out raids. The driver – no further name is given – never uses the same car twice but doesn’t seem fussy about what car he uses; so long as it can be souped-up enough to outwit the police and other chasing cars.

If the film credits named all the cars used in this film they would have to include the Cadillac Fleetwood Eldorado, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300 and many other cars.

7.    Duel (1971)

There are three 1971 films in this list and this is arguably the best. The film has a very simple storyline – a terrified motorist is chased by a mysterious tanker truck – a vehicle whose driver remains unseen. Steven Spielberg, making his directorial debut, held ‘auditions’ before deciding which truck to use but had only one stipulation about the choice of leading car – it had to be red. A Plymouth Valiant was eventually ‘cast’.

8.   Gone in 60 Seconds (1974)

This film’s script is all about a car thief who has to steal 48 cars in a week – a great excuse for car experts to try and identify the makes of the cars in question. Do you know your Plymouth Barracuda from your Jenson Interceptor? Watch the film to find out. Re-made in 2000 with Nicholas Cage and a strong supporting cast of new and vintage cars.

9.   Le Mans (1971)

This film features real-life footage of the 1970 edition of the Le Mans 24-hour race and stars racing enthusiast Steve McQueen playing the part of an American driver duelling with a German racing rival. The movie is heavy on racing action and light on dialogue but watching a Porsche 917 and a Ferrari 512 race through beautiful French countryside is never a chore.

10.   Senna (2010)

Senna details the breathtaking highs and tragic lows of driving in the fast lane. Its star is Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, a man whose daring driving style contrasts with the calculated risk-taking of his team mate Alain Prost. The rivalry between the team mates is examined using never-before-seen racing footage owned by Bernie Ecclestone. The film, which is devoid of talking heads interviews, has no conventional narrator but is wonderfully paced and edited. Even cinema-goers who don’t like Formula One can’t help but love Senna.

James Christie writes for business directory Thomson Local – a great resource if you are looking for a list of motoring services.

'Silent death' risk of electric cars

But what will happen when electric cars start to move out of the cities and into the countryside, will they have to make them noisy, just so people like me have time to get out of the way? The alternative of course is that the driver of the car gives a polite hoot of their horn, but I cannot see this going down too well with some (when was the last time you heard a bicycle bell) as they may (a) be given a fright or (b) may take offence at being asked to move.

Not a New Issue

This is not a new issue, in fact the BBC raised the issue back in May 2011, when the first signs of pressure on electric vehicle manufactures started. This was to do with the fact that in cities the increased number of these totally quiet cars were starting to make things difficult for the hard of hearing.

Trolleybuses and Silent Death

Even that is not new however, as back in the days of electric trolley buses, the number of people killed by these silent vehicles caused the occurrence to be nick named ‘Silent Death’. Of course the electric trolley bus is no longer with us, but the number of electric cars and buses is bound to increase as the efficiency of the power units and especially the batteries and the range that they provide improves.

Manufacturers are Taking Note

It seems that the manufacturers are starting to take notice too, Nissan being amongst those planning to fit loudspeakers to their cars for the safety of other road users.  Of course, those thinking that the electric car will reduce noise levels in cities, and rejoicing in the fact, are upset that there are plans to make them noisy on purpose.

As ever, the result will be  a compromise, the amount of sound being produced being the minimum possible to make things safe. Of course, the issues for urban and country will be different, so perhaps the sounds and their levels will have to be different too, all quite a lot to think about.

What Happens In The Countryside?

Of course it will be some time before the electric car makes it in numbers to the countryside, perhaps one of the first to make it there in the UK being the Vauxhall Ampera. This is not a totally electric car, it having a small petrol driven generator on board. This mixture gives a range of some 360 miles in all, and at least when the generator is running it will emit some noise, but I doubt whether it will be as noisy as a conventional car.  So the noise issue, or at least the lack of noise, is going to rumble on and as I say, is something that will be perhaps, of more concern to residents in the countryside than those in the city, the latter are after all expecting cars to be about.

In the meantime your motor car will of course require engine oils and other automotive fluids (as do their electric cousins ) so if you feel like a change from the big name producers, then check out the products made by www.exol-lubricants.com, after all sometimes it pays not to buy everything from the ‘big boys’

Buying a new or used car is probably second nature to most people. But, when one considers, after a house, our car is probably the most expensive purchase we will make and so when selling our old car it is important to achieve the best possible price.

Getting the best deal on your old car

There is the option of trading in the old car, and this is a very popular course of action, but not necessarily the best option if there is the possibility of getting cash in the hand, as hard cash will more than likely enable you to secure a more favourable negotiation on the new car.

Putting aside the customary methods of trading in one’s car, the internet has become an excellent way of acquiring a valuation for the old car, and also connecting vendors with purchasers. The result being that the buyer becomes more aware, and is quickly alerted as to the level of competition. This means that unless the car to be sold is very unusual, such as a Bugatti, the internet makes it easy for them to check if the price is reasonable.

Suggestions on Promoting Your Car’s Valuation

Depending upon the nature of the sale of the car and whether it is a private buyer or experts in the trade, some very basic techniques will ensure one gets the highest price for the vehicle.

• Ensure the car has had a regular, professional service, with documentation to back up the service history.
• Have any minor damage repaired.
• Have all the documents together in a well ordered folder.
• Try to obtain an HPI check to show no outstanding HP.
• Ensure the jack and spare tyre are in their proper place and do not show signs of wear or grime.
• Most importantly, have the car cleaned by a professional valet which will serve to ensure interest.
• If the car is taxed and has a valid MOT certificate it will attract more interest.
• Consider the time of year you wish to sell. Early in the year straight after Christmas, for example, is probably not a good time if you are hoping to sell your cabriolet!
• Ensure you have looked into the price of used cars so that you have a good knowledge of the amount similar cars are selling for.
• Advertising needs to be favourable, so talk about the positive points of the car, such as sufficient room for child car seats and the pushchair if it is a family car.

Put Yourself in the Position of the Trader

Experienced traders are very adept at offering vehicles to attract one’s attention in order to get them to enter into negotiations. Here they encourage the buyer with added extras such as floor mats and wheel trims. These are of little cost to the seller but are often seen as valuable to the purchaser, so mirroring this attitude to sell one’s own car could ensure a higher price.

Make Sure The Services You Employ Are Trustworthy.

If you prefer to sell the car in the private sector, then the internet offers an increasing choice of reputable websites to sell online. Capitalising on the newest web technology, you will be able to upload videos and superior images.

On the other hand, rather than trying to sell the car oneself, there are numerous sites that will purchase the vehicle once the details have been submitted, subject to an agreed valuation. Once negotiations have been agreed, the car can delivered by oneself, to an agreed location, and subject to specifications, the transaction completed. On the other hand, many sites will agree to collect the vehicle from a destination of one’s choice. Whichever the method, this is a swift, simple way of selling your car.

Headphones: a dangerous distraction for pedestrians?

Walking along the street while listening to music on headphones can block out some of the unwanted noises of modern life – the drone of road-drills, the screams of babies in prams and the prattle of people on street corners. However, headphone sounds can also block out noises we need to pay attention to – the sirens of police cars, the tinkle of a bicycle bell, the beep of a car horn telling us we are in danger…

Road safety association and breakdown cover company, GEM Motoring Assist, have consistently urged motorists to refrain from using distracting technology behind the wheel. Concentrating on the road ahead rather than lining up our favourite track helps protect the safety of the members it provides car breakdown cover to.

But is it now time for attention to be turned to pedestrians who compromise road-users’ safety by becoming distracted?

Recent research conducted in the US has examined how many vehicle crashes involved pedestrians using headphones. The findings, published on 16^th January 2011 in the Injury Prevention online journal, reveal that the number of headphone-wearing pedestrians suffering injuries or deaths tripled between 2005 and 2011.

The number of deaths and injuries was 16 in 2004-05 and had rocketed to 47 from 2010 to 2011.

It is important to stress that 55 per cent of these victims were struck by trains; however the statistics illustrate how distracting listening to headphones near roads and traffic can be.

In 2010, research by the AA conducted in Britain found that inattention caused by pedestrians could be the cause of 17 collisions per day; a figure which led the organisation to blast “iPod pedestrian, cycle and driver zombies”.

The American approach

Many states in America have started to tackle the dangers of distracted pedestrians with actions rather than just words. State laws requesting that pedestrians and cyclists stay focussed in their environment, by refraining from texting and listening to music, are becoming increasingly common.

John Kuhl of the National Conference of State Leglislators, told BBC News in 2011: “This year alone, five states have introduces some type of legislation on this.”

Australia and ‘iPod oblivion’

Australia – the first country in the world to introduce seat-belt legislation – has also taken a pro-active stance to tackle the rise of a trend they refer to as ‘iPod oblivion’. Television advertising campaigns Down Under have featured images of headphone-wearing people lying on the pavement with outlines chalked around their body; as if drawn by the police at a murder scene. The fact that these pictures have been posed by models does not detract from their hard-hitting impact.

The UK and headphones

In-car technology could provide an answer to the problem of pedestrians who forget their green cross code because they are listening to music. Car manufacturers are developing in-car cameras which identify if a pedestrian is too close to a car and halt the vehicle accordingly.

But can the UK afford to wait for technology to provide an answer before tackling the problems of distraction found on pavements? And how difficult would it be to enforce laws restricting the application of headphone’s main purpose – enabling people to listen to music-on-the-move.

On-foot UK headphone-wearers might feel it is hypercritical to ask them to pack away their listening devices when drivers still enjoy the freedom to use headphones behind the driving wheel.

Rule 148 of the Highway Code merely advises drivers to avoid distractions including “loud music (this may mask other sounds)”.

Such laxity is in contrast to many US states which only allow drivers to have an earphone in one ear while motoring from A to B.

Brightly-coloured clown

Headphone-loving pedestrians could also argue that mobile phone usage is more of a distraction than listening to music. Research conducted by Western Washington University backs up this claim. This study asked mobile phone users if they had noticed a brightly-coloured clown riding around on a unicycle while they were walking along.

Remarkably, 75 per cent said they hadn’t.

McLaren Merchandise

The McLaren racing team is the second longest running team that is still active. It follows only Ferrari. McLaren Racing also has its own line of merchandise so their fans can express their support of the team. The team is made up of two drivers, Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. The official McLaren shop offers fans a wide array of mclaren f1 merchandise. There are areas of the shop with specific items for men, women and children. McLaren also offers various gifts as well as collections. One would be hard pressed not to find something they like at the McLaren shop. The extent of the merchandise is quite impressive. The range of clothing offered by McLaren includes caps, t-shirts, polo shirts, sweaters, jackets and footwear. Shoppers can choose merchandise that supports the McLaren team as a whole. They can also select merchandise that specifically supports one of the two drivers, Jenson Button or Lewis Hamilton.

The website also offers shoppers the ability to preorder teamwear from the 2012 collection. Also impressive is their assortment of gift items. Of course, this includes die cast models to allow fans to build their own McLaren Formula One car. Also, includes are helmet replicas of either Button or Hamilton. DVDs and books are also popular gift items. Posters can also be found in the gift area of the shop. Accessories bearing the team’s logo are also gift items that are popular in the shop. These items range from key rings, mugs, water bottles and much more.

Almost 228000 fewer driving tests were taken by learner drivers last year according to the Driving Standards Agency, which is a drop of 13% on the previous year 2009 / 2010. The number of young drivers between the ages of 17-25 taking tests has fallen by 19% since 2005 / 2006. So what is the reason for this fall in the number of people taking tests? Could the rise in motoring costs be putting people off?

Increasing cost of driving

To most people a driving licence means freedom. It is the gateway to a better life. People need cars to travel to work, some companies require you to have a licence to get the job in the first place. Families need a car to get about especially parents of young families where they need to take prams and so on everywhere. Cars allow us to go anywhere at any time and not be restricted by public transport schedules.

Ignition Driving School believes that the fall in young drivers taking tests is linked to costs associated with actually owning a vehicle and not the costs associated with learning to drive. In fact the cost of learning to drive is the lowest it’s ever been with so many driving schools offering discounts and promotions.

However, students now wishing to go to university have tuition fees to pay for and with the costs of car insurance for young drivers and fuel being at an all time high, young people are having to rethink about how they spend their money and are learning to drive when they are older and can afford it. A spokesperson for Ignition Driving School said, “We have seen a change in the types of courses that learner drivers want to do. We see a lot of people requesting to do intensive style courses, because they need to pass for a job offer they’ve been given. It used to be that learning to drive was a matter of course, you turned 17 and you started to learn to drive, but now people learn to drive when they need to, which may be when they are about to start a new job or when they have a young family.”

According to the RAC the cost of motoring has risen by 14% in 2011, with the average cost of owning a car being £128.64 a week. They found that various factors contributed to this rise including car depreciation, where cars are losing their value quicker making them worth less, car maintenance costs rising, car insurance premiums rising, on average costing 14.38% more than they did a year ago, and fuel costs being at an all time high, with two more fuel duty rises planned for 2012. In addition to these the cost of borrowing money has also become more expensive so people who take out car finance are also paying more for their car overall.

Ignition Driving School commented, “There is no incentive for young people to learn to drive as driving a car is expensive. Insurance companies used to reward young drivers for completing the Pass Plus scheme but even this advanced motoring course carries no weight now, with some insurance companies only offering a £10 reward for completing the course.”

Additional drivers and Insurance premiums

If you add an additional driver to your car insurance you’ll be asked to provide information about that person such as their date of birth and information on any car insurance claims they may have made in the last five years. You’ll also have to declare if they have any convictions that are unspent or pending.

The cost of adding an additional driver to your car insurance will depend on this information. Though it is rare, premiums can occasionally go down after additional drivers are added!

However if your son or daughter is learning to drive and you decide to include them on your vehicle’s car insurance, you should expect a significant increase in the cost of your car insurance. Most car insurance providers will allow you to insure someone who only has a provisional licence but the change in price can be dramatic. In fact, according to The Independent newspaper, adding your son or daughter to your car insurance policy can raise premiums by nearly 300 per cent.1

It’s not just the price of your car insurance premium that you need to consider. Car insurance providers often issue a charge for making alterations to your car insurance midway through your policy. Most UK car insurance providers allow you to view their car insurance policy documents online so you can look into their extra charges before selecting a car insurance policy.

Most car insurance companies issue a reasonable charge of about twenty pounds. This isn’t designed to act as a deterrent but is intended to cover the administrative costs involved in making changes and sending your amended car insurance documents. Cheap car insurance providers may levy a more significant charge so it is worth checking with your car insurance provider before making a change.

Having weighed up the costs you may decide to insure your son or daughter on a different vehicle. Many car insurance providers accept drivers as young as seventeen and as old as ninety-nine however special conditions may apply depending on the age of the additional driver. For instance, some car insurance policies don’t allow anyone under eighteen to pay their car insurance by instalments or younger drivers may have to pay a higher excess.

Car insurance can be costly, especially when you need to insure young inexperienced drivers, but a reliable car insurance policy that offers extensive cover is well worth investing in.

Company Profile:

John Lewis Insurance offers a range of insurance services selected by the John Lewis Partnership. These include home, life, pet, travel, wedding, event and car insurance quotes.

For more information about John Lewis Car Insurance please visit the website here – www.johnlewis-insurance.com/homepage/car-insurance.html.

Used car buying tips

To help people purchase a second hand car smoothly we have come up with some top tips to research and look out for when entering the market for used cars:

• Check the seller – The first thing to do before even contemplating signing on the dotted line is to ensure that the seller is legitimate. Remember that using dealers can be slightly more expensive, but at least then your risks are minimised. Similarly, make sure that you are able to visit the car at either the business premises or the seller’s home before parting with your well-earned cash.

• Test drive the car – Probably the number one thing to remember – and don’t do it half-heartedly. If you’re going to take it for a spin – which you should – test it out, work it on a mixture of slow and fast roads and keep your ears open for any vibrations and noises along the way.

• Check vehicle clocking – Any tampering of the mileage is of course illegal, and by removing 10,000 miles a seller could be increasing the value of his or her vehicle considerably. Try to be vigilant against this and have a look at the dashboard to see if the screws are worn or how old it looks. The best way to check that there hasn’t been any tampering is to get a copy of all the documents.

• Examine the paper work – While this will show the mileage over the years, it’s also imperative to check any paper work so that it hasn’t been tampered with. Every car should have a full history and you will be able to see that the MOT, tax and V5 are all in order. Similarly, check that the chassis and registration numbers match those stated alongside that there is a match for both the address and name of the seller.

• Be a good buyer – As much as you need to know that the seller is legitimate, they need to know that you are the right person to sell to. Be on time for viewings, make sure that you make a decision in a timely fashion and be prompt in taking the car away if you do decide that you want to purchase the second hand car. During this current global economic crisis, it can make prudent financial sense to look towards second hand motors when looking to solve your driving issues. Many people have only good things to say about this market, but some people have been stung by it before. Always use a recommended dealer to make sure that everything is done above board.

Finally, if the Car has a private registration plate the owner may not realise it has value which should be considered in the car sales price.  It might be worth getting a valuation as after you buy the car you could sell it through a private number plates company like Carreg, the DVLA do not buy plates back.

Dubai International Motor Show

The biennial event saw many deals generated for automotive manufacturers in the luxury and supercar ranges, with many reporting positive responses in leads and sales. Owing to the popularity for high-range vehicles in Dubai and the UAE, the show attracted major car manufacturers, tuners and related companies to sign deals and pursue partnerships.

Among the main crowd attractions were 9 global launches and more than 50 regional premiers, of which the Infiniti 2012 FX and G25 were prominent. A spokesman from the luxury car company reported over 1000 serious enquiries at the Nissan Infiniti platform, and hinted at another successful return in 2013. Visitors were also attracted to the innovative concept cars on show from Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Maserati and Toyota.

Over 100 000 visitors were said to have stopped in at the grand Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre in the central business district, where 150 companies showcased vehicles from over 30 countries worldwide. In addition to the vehicles on display, there were interactive features including the Nissan Live Action Track and a Fastest Tyre Change contest on a replica F1 racing car, sponsored by Infiniti.

Predicted to be the largest in the 22-year history of the event, the 2011 motor show exceeded expectations when key exhibitors reported record sales, of which supercar and high-end luxury cars featured prominently. A spokesman from the venue commented that the strength of the show confirmed the importance of the UAE to the automotive world and is as a key location for the unveiling of innovative concept cars.

The show was held from 10 to the 14 November, and officially opened by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

2012 Chevrolet Captiva 7 Seater

Let’s start with something that Chevrolet have always got right, as hinted at by Top Gear, their cars are most certainly reasonably priced. The new Captiva starts at £21,995 which for a hulking great SUV is astonishing, especially compared to its rivals. Land Rovers Freelander 2 starts at over 22k, Audi’s Q5 at 28k and BMW’s X3 at an eye watering 31k. Many people will argue of course that the Chevvy is cheap because, well, it is cheap. This might have been true in the past but Chevrolet has pulled out all the stops to try and build the Captiva out of better quality and more durable materials than before. Engine wise the Captiva’s moved up in the world too. It features an all-new 2.2 litre turbo diesel unit which is both more powerful and more efficient than the ones in the last generation. The new engine comes in 2 states of tune; the base FWD Captiva LS getting a 163bhp version while the 4WD models get 184bhp. Both engines get almighty slugs of torque 350 and 400Nm respectively (perfect for towing) and will return more than 40mpg in the process. Every model also gets the choice of either a 6 speed manual or automatic transmission, perfect for motorway cruising. So far the new car is shaping up to be rather good and I haven’t even got to the best bits yet.

For your not very costly outlay, the Captiva comes packed with extras, so many in fact that it’s almost pointless ticking anything on the options list. The base LS model comes with 17” alloys, air-con, 6 speaker stereo system with steering wheel controls, MP3 jack, a whole bunch of airbags and countless storage bins for all your families accumulated junk. Although as previously mentioned it is only FWD. However, if its versatility and practicality you’re after, the best model to go for is the (still excellent value) LT at £27,695. For that price you get all the LS’s equipment plus, a rather handy 4WD system, 7 incredibly versatile seats, climate control, trip computer and part leather interior. A rather good feature of this aforementioned seven seat car is that 6 of them can be folded flat in order to create an absolutely humongous load capacity, brilliant if you have a penchant for buying second hand surfboards.

Previous UK Chevrolets lacked any visual impact whatsoever; the same cannot be said for the new Captiva. It is big and quite definitely American in every single way. Now usually being American is not always a good thing but I think it works to the Captiva’s advantage. The big imposing grill, chiselled muscular edges and forward leaning stance all give the car real presence. The Captiva is the car equivalent of what happens if an American footballer was to walk into your local and order a Budweiser. His charm and bravado will repel some but undoubtedly attract many more, because underneath the good looks and athletic ability is actually a rather charming, friendly person. The new Captiva captures this aspect of America and Americans that previous Chevvy’s failed to and it is likely to win it a few fans. Sure its European competition might be beautifully engineered, designed and built but in the process they have all become a bit clinical, dull and in truth not very fun. The Captiva has avoided this, it’s big, versatile, charming and ready to take on the world, just like an American should be.

It might be clichéd to say but there is no denying that transporting your family in a high riding 4WD makes you feel at ease. And what better way to transport them, than in a car which has room for the grandparents, a bunch of bikes, enough torque to tow your house and good enough mpg to mean you don’t get to know the person at the petrol station by name. Not to mention leave you enough money in the first place to actually go on holiday to America. You could do a lot worse than get a new Captiva, especially with the chance of another artic winter on the way. Go and have a look, you might just be surprised.

Toyota FT-86

Toyota and Subaru in recent years have had a pretty dismal track record when it comes to exciting new cars. Toyota killed off the MR2, Celica and Supra, opting instead to produce stuff like the clever but utterly lacklustre Prius and totally un-urban Urban Cruiser. Subaru also seemed keen to kill off any macho reputation they once had, by turning the Impreza from burbling rally legend into an awful hatchback to try and take on the might of the Focus and Golf. So I think it goes without saying that the motoring world gave a collective sigh of relief when it became clear that the fruits of the Toyota/Subaru partnership would be a sports car, not a hum drum eco box.

So on to the sparse but very intriguing details. The Toyota FT-86 and Subaru BRZ will essentially be the same car in different states of tune with differing badges and wheels to distinguish between the two. More is known about the Toyota thanks to the link on their website, and its appearance in the Gran Turismo 5 Playstation game. The engine is a Subaru developed boxer unit mated to a six speed manual sending power to the back wheels through a limited slip differential (good start in my opinion). All the oily bits will be set as low and as close to the middle of the car as possible, so it should be quite an agile and well balanced little coupe. It will develop roughly 200bhp and weigh not much more than a postage stamp, adding to the speculation that it should be quite handy when confronted with a nice piece of tarmac. In terms of cost the Toyota will be the cheaper of the two sister cars at around 20k, not bad value for what sounds like an awesome little package. The Subaru BRZ is the more elusive of the two cars, all that’s known is it will cost a little bit more, probably 25k and for that money it is likely to come with a horsepower figure closer to 300bhp. However one thing that is certain is that there will be no fabled Subaru 4WD system, like the Toyota it too will be RWD.

Both cars get there official release at the Tokyo Motor show in November, so we don’t have long to wait to see what the production versions of both cars will look like. However, we can presume the Toyota won’t change much from the FT-86 concept. It has a classic coupe profile, long, low nose rising to a higher wide rear. A wide air intake and what look like gills with running lights at the front combined with flared arches make it look particularly aggressive.  At the rear twin exhausts, boot spoiler and a rear diffuser help set the car off.

The world awaits the official release of both the Toyota and Subaru, however based on what we can see of the Toyota and read about both cars I think they will go some way to resurrecting both companies rather bland brand image of late. It is also superb that in a time of little money and avid environmentalists two companies can come together, disregard current ideologies and build a fun, good looking, petrol powered, manual, RWD sports car. Well done “Tobaru”!