Society is wising up in terms of buying the right, economical and eco-friendly vehicles. A few years ago, more auto brands were “going green” and started producing more electric vehicles (EV’s) and hybrids. Motor shows showcased more improvisations of electric vehicles (EV’s) – even the fastest car on earth is now electric. We will be seeing more of the EV’s since most governments are imposing tougher emission standards on car makers. Other than that, EV development is here to stay due to the fear of erratic gas prices. Are you thinking of buying an EV? It would be advisable to weigh the pros and cons before you purchase. Here’s a brief look on those important points you should consider:PROS:• COST – Big savings. EV’s just cost as much as gasoline and diesel vehicles when purchased but you save more in the long run; gasoline prices are higher than the price of electricity you need to charge overnight.• EFFECT ON ENVIRONMENT – Environmentally safe. EV’s are very eco-friendly because they produce almost no emissions; unlike the gasoline and diesel vehicles. • VERSATILITY/PERFORMANCE – Noise-free and easy. EV’s make a quiet ride and are fairly easy to operate.CONS:• BATTERY- Expensive and not eco-friendly. Some batteries won’t last long before you have to recharge them. New batteries are expensive since they are not the ordinary lead-acid type. They are quite heavy and you’ll have a hard time disposing them since they’re not eco-friendly.• SAFETY- Quite the average. Because EV’s are nearly silent, they become a hazard when people are not aware of the acceleration. We are used to hearing a speeding car pass by and pedestrians might be in danger. People who have driven an EV don’t feel safe because when they accelerate, they are not in total control. Make sure to ask whether the EV you are interested in has gone through any crash testing; they might not have the same degree of safety as the gas/diesel vehicles.• PARTS & REPAIRS- Expensive and complicated. Parts for repairs are more pricy due to lower demand. There are only a few brands selling quality EV’s. You have to be a licensed electrician and licensed mechanic to work on them.• EFFECT ON ENVIRONMENT – Not so eco-friendly. More EV’s mean more power plants; power plants are pollutants to the environment.• VERSATILITY/PERFORMANCE -Low in versatility compared to diesel/gasoline cars. There is no total control when you accelerate. It starts out slow and the speed eventually increases unlike in gasoline/diesel cars where the accelerometer is very responsive.by: Amalia AvilesAutoTerminal.com
Poor driving visibility is another problem which is taken lightly by most motorists. The problem is aggravated by a lot of environmental factors that increase poor visibility even for drivers who may have excellent eyesight. Here are some of the most common factors and some tips on how to neutralize them.
5 factors that increase the instance of poor visibility
1. Very few governments the world over are strict when it comes to testing the eyesight of those applying for a driver’s license. Even the UK which has one of the most stringent eye exams for new license applicants don’t require a re-test until the driver reaches the age of 70;
2. Many motorists today are unaware that they have vision problems and more than half of those who wear corrective glasses and contact lenses admit that they take them off while driving;
3. Very few drivers regularly check if their windshield wipers and washers are fully functional before driving the vehicle;
4. When driving during twilight, there is a short period of time when our vision is very poor while we try to get accustomed to the darkening environment;
5. Natural conditions such as the sun’s glare, dust, rain, snow, etc.
10 tips on how to improve visibility for these situations
1. Take the time to have your eyesight checked regularly, even when the law does not require it;
2. To relieve or prevent the strain of eye fatigue, move your eyes from time to time and refrain from staring too long at a fixed point. Some contact lenses can actually increase the chance of eye fatigue. It is better to wear glasses instead of contacts while driving;
3. It is a good practice to keep a spare pair of spectacles in your car;
4. To reduce glare from the lights of incoming traffic and even from the sun, light tint and anti-reflection coating can be applied to your spectacles or even your windshield;
5. Of course, never wear tinted glasses or visors after dark or during conditions of poor visibility such as heavy rain, fog or snowfall;
6. When taking medication, ask the doctor whether such medicine may impair your vision or slow down your reflexes;
7. Keep your windows clean. Make sure that your defogger and windshield wipers work and that windshield washers are filled correctly;
8. Be wary when driving during twilight and turn on your running lights for other people on the road to see you better;
9. When driving at night, adjust your rearview mirror to avoid the beam of the headlights from the vehicles behind you from hitting your eyes directly;
10. And last but certainly not least, if you have someone sitting in the passenger seat, let that person help you watch out for road signs and incoming hazards.
When it comes to the problem of road visibility, you can’t be too complacent. Regularly test your eyesight, slow down when necessary, always take care and don’t be embarrassed to ask help. Just remember, as Dave Barry says:
The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above-average drivers.
by: Edon Canada
AutoTerminal.com
Autobahn
Germany's Autobahn (motorway)- is one of the best places to be for fast and furious drivers. You can legally drive as fast as you wish. There is no general speed limit but only a recommended speed limit of 130 kph (81 mph). The same rule applies on French motorways but in Norway you’d have to slow down, where it’s just 90 kph (55 mph).
Breakdowns
Make sure to bring breakdown cover before going on a cross country road trip. It could cost over £2000 for a stranded car and four passengers to be brought home from Southern Europe.
Company cars
Make sure to get permission, if you plan to drive the company car overseas. Bring the official letter from your employer authorizing you to take it with you abroad. If it’s a lease car, you’ll also need to secure a vehicle-on-hire certificate from the leasing company.
Driving license
It’s a legal requirement to carry your license when driving, unlike in the UK. You might need to get an International Driving Permit for other countries.
EU enlargement
Ten new states joined the European Union and make a perfect holiday driving destination. Be on the lookout for unfamiliar road rules. Speed limits vary on certain roads during certain seasons and winter tires must be fitted in snowing states.
Fuel can
In several European countries it’s illegal to be carrying a can of spare fuel in the boot. They’re also banned on car ferries or Le Shuttle, whether full or empty.
GB sticker
You don’t need a separate GB sticker when visiting other EU countries if your vehicle is fitted with the new-style euro plate. However, if the vehicle has the old number plate, the law requires a GB sticker close to your rear number plate. Towing trailers or caravans need another sticker as well.
Horn
Be careful not to honk your horn anywhere. Most places are annoyed with incessant honking and are introducing laws to stop unnecessary horn use, especially in town.
Italy
Italy is home to fast and furious drivers with major motorways of speed limits increased to (93 mph). It’s important to keep your headlamps on when driving in Italy.
Junctions
When driving in France, a give-way-to-the-right rule applies. Motorists must give way to vehicles joining their road from the right even if their on the main road, unless signs indicate they have priority.
Kangaroos
The outback could be very hazardous at night so avoid it. Collisions with kangaroos are common in Australia.
Lights
In Scandinavia, it’s a legal requirement to keep your head lamps on. This is the same reason why Volvos have their headlights on all the time.
Mobile phones
Many countries have laws that ban the use of mobile phones while driving. Mobile phones are a well-known necessity but also a fatal driving hazard.
Night driving
Make sure you’re not drowsy while driving at night. Research has shown that the greatest risk of falling asleep at the wheel is between midnight-6am and 2-4pm.
On the spot fines
French police are known to collect up to 375 Euros on fines. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different road rules before setting off. This will save you the trip to the cash machine.
Parking
In France parking is allowed in one side of the road and is switched to the other side. This can be tricky, so better make sure you get the rules before trying anything. In Austria, motorists must leave sidelights on where street lights aren't lit - but must watch out for those streetlights that turn off at midnight.
Queues
Sometimes traffic lanes merge into one and in Germany the Reissverschluss or zipper law applies. This means that motorists on each lane must give way one at a time.
Rental cars
Before driving off with your rental, do a damage check. You could end up paying for that damage after using it. In the US, civil litigation is common and motorists need about $1m of Supplementary Liability Insurance cover.
Spectacles
When driving in Spain, make sure to keep a spare pair of spectacles in the car if you wear them. It not only makes you look smart, but it is required by law and applies to Switzerland as well.
Traffic lights
Red means stop and green means go. In America, however, motorists can make a right turn, after stopping to check if the road is clear.
Undertaking
Lane swapping is allowed on American freeways, so be very careful. Drivers are allowed to overtake on the inside - a big “no-no” in most European countries.
Vignette
In Austria or Switzerland, a vignette or motorway tax disc is required. Don’t go without displaying it on your windscreen.
Warning triangle
In some countries you need one and some countries two (Spain and Turkey). In most countries like France, carry a set of spare light bulbs too.
X-roads
In America, where two or more cars stop at a cross-roads, the car that arrived first has right of way. If they both got there at the same time, the give-way-to-the-right rule applies
Young drivers
You can apply for a license in the UK at 17, but you can't in France and New Zealand till you're 18. However, for the first two years after passing your test, you’re not allowed to exceed 110 kph on the motorway.
Zebra Crossings
Drivers don't always stop for pedestrians at a zebra crossing in most countries. Better be careful when you do, to avoid getting rear-ended by a local driver.
by: Amalia Aviles
AutoTerminal.com
Defensive and fuel efficient driving are the ultimate keys to road safety and the optimum operation of your car’s system for a long time. By being a defensive and fuel efficient driver, you’ll also add up more on savings from frequent gas ups.
Follow these simple and easy steps to become a defensive and fuel efficient driver.
Become a defensive driver
1. Before starting your car, be sure that you have buckled up everyone, including children and pets (if any)
2. Stay in the speed limit. In some areas, (especially highly urbanized zones) driving too fast or too slow will increase your chance of a collision.
3. Be cautious of changing situations on the road and be prepared to responds quickly. If you notice a car that’s straddling, weaving, making wide turns, stopping suddenly or not responding to traffic signals, then know that the driver may be impaired or distracted. Probable causes could be alcohol, distraction or on the phone.
4. Stay away from impaired drivers. Slow down a bit to increase following distance. If the driver is behind you, turn at the nearest corner. Always remember to never let or encourage an impaired driver pass you. If a vehicle crosses over into your lane, pull over the roadside. Sound your horn or flash lights to attract attention.
5. Maintain presence of mind to quickly respond to any situation. Never drink and drive. Never use your mobile phone while on the road.
6. Always follow traffic rules and regulations. Never contest right of way or engage racing on busy roads.
7. Always observe courtesy and respect for other drivers.
Drive efficiently
1. Regularly tune-up your gasoline / diesel engine to keep it in top fuel efficiency condition.
2. Start and keep your engine running at the normal idling speed. Running more than the recommended “warm up” will affect your fuel burn.
3. When driving, always keep within the speed of 70 to 90 kph. Driving below or higher than this bracket will result in less kph traveled for the same amount of fuel.
4. Plan your trips ahead in order to maximize the load factor of your car.
5. Always be aware of alternate routes in your trip to avoid traffic hassles.
6. Always keep in mind when to shift to a higher gear. This will avoid stress on your engine.
7. Fill your tank early in the morning will result in your being able to load 3-6% more fuel than filling it at noon when the temperature is much higher.
8. Never overfill your tank. Always see to it to keep your fuel cap tight to prevent spillage or evaporation.
9. If you tune up the operation of your car at close to sea level, it will be less fuel efficient when you’ll get to a higher elevation and vice versa due to the difference in density altitude.
10. Always maintain gradual acceleration. This will save you as much as 1 kilometer to the liter compared with rapid acceleration.
11. Minimize your load. Unnecessary weight in your car will add up to as much as 10% in your car’s fuel consumption.
Practice these basics and you’re off to a safe and smooth ride.
Buckle Up.
by: Jovir Amatong
AutoTerminal.com
Are you a responsible driver? About a million people all over the world die of road accidents every year. Follow these essential road safety tips for your own sake and others.
1. Belt yourself
– whether you are on the front seat or back, you are still at risk.
– If you don’t, you could kill someone in the front as well as yourself.
– Check if everyone is belted well before you hit the road and make sure you do, even on short trips.
– Seats must be suited to your child’s size , weight, and for your vehicle. They must be
properly fastened as well. Avoid using second-hand seats; only brand new and reliable brands.
2. Wake yourself
– Don’t risk driving when you’re sleepy.
– If you do, chances are you’ll keep nodding while driving.
– Research shows that the greatest risk of falling asleep at the wheel is between midnight-6am and 2-4pm; so get enough rest before setting off.
– If ever you feel drowsy while driving, pull over; experts suggest to get a cup of coffee or an energy drink with caffeine. After drinking, park beside a busy and well-lit area and nap for a few minutes to give time for the caffeine to kick in.
– Start driving only if you are alert again.
3. Sober yourself
– Don’t drive under the influence of any substance.
– Don’t drive if you feel heavy and tipsy after drinking; trying to look sober won’t work and there’s a big chance you’ll doze off and crash. Sleep it off somewhere until you get sober.
– Don’t be an idiot. Alcohol slows your responses, dulls your judgement and vision and impairs your ability to drive; same goes for illegal drugs.
– If you go out to drink with friends, it’s better to let your sober friend (with a driver’s license) drive on the way back home.
4. Control yourself
– Don’t overspeed.
– Check your speedometer and don’t go over the speed limits. The faster you go, the harder you’ll hit anything or anyone.
– Watch for the speed limits by the side of the road. In some countries, speed cameras are installed and you’ll have to pay a hefty amount of money or worse, crash your car.
– Don’t attempt to overtake if you’re not so sure the road is clear.
5. Prep yourself
– Drive wisely in bad weather conditions.
– When it rains, make sure your headlights function well and keep them on a dipped beam when necessary.
– Slow down especially when you’re on wet and snowy roads; you might skid and topple over.
– Drive at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle infront of you and avoid braking and steering sharply.
– Make sure to bring an emergency winter kit stocked with cloth, ice scraper, glass cleaner, anti-freeze, kitty litter, jack and wrench.
6. Alert yourself
– Don’t get distracted while driving.
– Pay attention to the road and avoid answering your mobile phone or changing a CD or song in your mp3 player. It only takes a split second to overlook potential danger.
– Be fully aware of your surroundings and you’ll be able to avoid hazards along the way. Driving is a complicated activity that requires your full concentration.
– Cyclists and pedestrians need to be watched out for especially in round abouts and pedestrian crossings.
7. Check yourself
– Inspect gear and vehicle fluids.
– Worn out tires may cause serious accidents. Use a tyre pressure gauge to make sure they are also properly inflated and do not have tears.
– Do you have enough break fluid? Is there a leak? Check for scheduled check ups on your vehicle.
– Also make sure your head lights are cleaned properly and bulbs aren’t blown. You need ample visibility on the road.
by Amalia Aviles
www.autoterminal.com
