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Why 2015 Is A Good Year To Buy An Electric Car

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Car drivers are always looking for ways to cut down on their motoring costs. Some might drive slower than usual to conserve fuel. While others will opt for public transport where possible to complete their journeys.

 

When buying a car, consumers have many choices. For example, they could buy petrol or diesel cars. They might even choose a hybrid vehicle. But did you know that electric vehicles are steadily rising in popularity?

Image via Flickr

 

There is much debate over whether it’s a good idea to buy an electric vehicle or not. It turns out that 2015 is an excellent year to buy one. Want to know why? Check out the reasons below:

 

Road taxes are rising

 

In many countries, vehicles get taxed according to the carbon emissions their engines produce. That means if you drive around in a V8 gas guzzler, you can expect to pay a small fortune to drive it on public roads.

To curb high-emissions vehicles, many governments increase the price of road tax on an annual basis. So when you drive a car that has no tailpipe emissions, what happens then? Simple – you pay nothing!

 

It’s no secret that some countries tax cars by engine size rather than emissions. But since electric cars don’t have a conventional combustion engine, there’s no tax to pay.

 

The public charging point infrastructure is growing

 

I was chatting to a salesman from pentagon-group.co.uk the other day. He was telling me how many of the world’s major governments are pushing for more public charging stations. I agreed with him, as I have noticed how there are more public charging stations for electric cars.

 

For example, last week I took a trip down to my local Ikea store and noticed some new parking spaces got installed just for electric cars! Even in shopping mall car parks more dedicated electric car parking spaces are getting installed.

 

There are financial incentives

 

Did you know that you can often receive significant discounts by buying an electric vehicle? For a start, the price you pay to your local car dealer will be lower than the list price. That’s because you are usually eligible for a government grant towards the cost of new electric cars.

 

Some car manufacturers also offer deal-sweeteners too. For instance, let’s say that you want to spend less time charging your electric vehicle at home. You would usually use an ordinary power socket. Some car makers install fast-charging stations at the homes of customers for free!

 

Others might charge a small, nominal fee towards the cost of your home charging station. And they opt for cover the rest of the installation cost. If you decide to sell your home and move elsewhere, you will need to pay for the facility at your new property.


But having a fast charging station at your existing home can increase the value of your property. The extra money you make from your house sale would more than cover the installation cost at your new home!

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The Dangers of a Hybrid Vehicle

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The year 1886 is widely thought to be the year that birthed the automobile. Since then there have been numerous advances in the industry to the point where there is 454 passenger cars for every 1000 people in the UK.

However, with all the pollutants that these vehicles gave off, there was bound to be some kind of negative reaction, this being the unbalancing of the environment i.e. with all the trees being cut down, the carbon dioxide released from cars isn’t balanced by the amount of oxygen. Automakers answer to this? The electric car.

But, the problem that came with this is that electric cars actually turned out to be pretty harmful to the environment too, as the production of the batteries not only produced harmful by-products, but also required extensive use of fossil fuels.

So, in answer to this problem, Hybrid vehicles were born (because we simply can’t walk), a combination of both gasoline and electric-based automobiles. But, of course, this concept of an eco-car wasn’t a perfect one either, they rarely are. So what’s the problem? Read on and you’ll find out.

 A thunderous silence

From the beginning, there were questions over whether or not the sound of engines, or lack of, would create problems for pedestrians, as they can’t hear the car well enough when it’s driving at low speeds to be able to know whether or not it is coming.

This problem would be even worse for those who are not only hard of hearing, but those with poor sight as they rely somewhat on sound as an indicator of oncoming vehicles. In fact, this foreseen problem has indeed become a reality, although hybrid cars are less likely to be involved in a traffic accident, they actually have a higher likelihood (20% higher) of causing pedestrian injury.

There has even been legislation passed in order to regulate the sound cars can make, not how high, but how low it can be, in order to prevent some of the potential accidents that can occur from the lack of sound. Toyota took the first steps to counter this problem with the Camry in 2012, which emits a sound similar to an electric engine, increasing in pitch as it nears an object.

The shocking truth…

Hybrid cars actually tend to be safer than normal cars on the road, unless you’re a pedestrian, but make no mistake, they do have a darker side. If a hybrid is involved in a car accident, the battery may remain on, charging up to 144 to 330 volts DC (direct current).

The first responder to the accident puts themselves in danger of coming into contact with the battery while rescuing someone, they would be electrocuted and suffer serious injury. If it becomes absolutely necessary to come into contact with the battery, it has to be disconnected first and in the rare occurrence of battery leakage, vinegar can be used to neutralise the electrolytes.

In fact, the voltage is high enough to be lethal. But automakers have accounted for this, putting the battery wires in bright orange tubing to indicate the danger, as well as creating a system that disrupts all electric power to the battery when the car is turned off.

 

It’s alive!

A common feature of hybrid vehicles is the engine turning off when the car stops, in order to maintain low emission and fuel usage. Understandably, people tend to assume that the car is off, so they’re completely unaware of the fact that it can move, leading to many obvious problems, especially if the car is facing downhill or if they’re standing in front of it.

Some car companies have incorporated indicators or ‘Ready’ signs to show whether or not the car is still on or not. However, they can only be seen on the car dashboard, so a first responder standing in front of a hybrid can still be unaware of the situation, as the car can move if the driver doesn’t have the brake pressed down. It is procedure for paramedics and firefighters to secure the vehicle and stop it moving before taking any other action.

It’s certain that hybrid cars will play a massive part in the future of the motor industry, but it’s also just as certain that changes need to be made. With attempts to increase the amount of miles per gallon in all cars in the coming years, it’s going to be necessary for all automakers to try to get on par with Toyota, whose Prius has the highest mpg (53) out of all hybrid cars. This means more and more changes in future, which leads us to the real question – When will my car fly? I really don’t want to have to walk places.

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Top 5 Hybrid cars of 2014

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No one ever imagined that we would have hybrid vehicles operating this year, but top car manufactures have ensured that this has come to pass. We can now witness an amazing technology whereby a vehicle uses two power sources in order to move. These automotives incorporates two combined engines, one operating on electric power while the other using an internal combustion engine. Let us now look at top 5 hybrid cars of 2014 that has left everyone buzzing.

 

 2014 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

This is a fast moving machine with a sport touch that makes it worth considering for any spirited driver out there. It incorporates a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor that provides it with ample power when in motion. Test drivers agree that this automotive has nimble handling, drives at an amazing speed and has precise steering. Other notable features include:

• Seamless shifts

• Has the ability to out the fuel line and automatically unlock doors in case of a collision

• Du zone automatic climate control

• 6-speaker audio system with touch screen display

 

 2014 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

This vehicle offers an impressive list of standard features such as high-quality interior and decent acceleration. It also incorporates a 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor with 6-speed automatic transmission. It is able to transition seamlessly between the gas and electric power. Other important features in this automotive include:

• High-quality interior cabin materials

• Well placed and intuitive interior controls

• Heated front seats

• Dual-zone automatic climate control

• Bluetooth

• Satellite radio

 

2014 Toyota Avalon Hybrid

This vehicle will surely be uploaded not only for its comfort but also its capability to offer great fuel economy. Also with a 4-cylinder engine and an eclectic motor, the Toyota Avalon offers an adequate acceleration. It rides smooth and offers a touch of class and elegance. It also incorporates features such as

• Supportive and comfortable front and back seats

• Huge trunk space

• Easy to use climate controls

• Rear-view camera

• Audio system with a 6.1 inch touch-screen display

• Bluetooth phone and audio streaming

• Satellite radio

 

2014 Honda Accord hybrid

Honda Accord offers extraordinary fuel economy, upscale interior and a strong and impressive performance. It has a 4-cylinder engine and also incorporates an electric motor that provides it with ample power. It comes with a seamless start-stop feature and a flawless transition between gas and electric power. Other notable features are:

• Plenty of passenger space

• Bluetooth

• Rear-view camera

• An 8-inch infotainment screen

• Honda-link smartphone app integration

• 7 speaker premium audio system

• Satellite radio

 

2014 Ford Fusion hybrid

This is a great midsize hybrid vehicle that offers exceptional fuel economy and a quiet powertrain. It has an electric motor and 4-cylinder gas engine that provides it with plenty of power when in motion. It has an undetectable power transmission and 8 standard airbags. Other features include:

• Post-crash alarm system

• Inflatable rear seatbelts

• 6-speaker CD audio system with a Ford’s voice-controlled sync

• Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity

• Rear-view camera

• Adaptive cruise control

• Satellite radio

This year will see the debut of various hybrid automotives that will blow away every driver. These top 5 hybrid cars offers impressive features that perhaps we never imagined could be incorporated in a vehicle. They come with an electric motor and an internal combustion engine for high power and performance. If you want to become a competent driver who understands every aspect of driving, all you need to do is get driving test booking and become among top drivers out there.

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What technology do we expect to be introduced in cars in the next decade?

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self driving car

Cars are one of the most important pieces of technology that are part of our daily life. They’re used on a regular basis by people all over the world, which is why the technology we see today is so advanced. Unless you’re someone who uses public transport or walks everywhere then it’s likely that you spend a lot of time travelling in a car.

Although cars are an amazing invention, journeys aren’t always as pleasant as they could be. Being stuck bumper to bumper in traffic, spending what seems like hours looking for a parking space or simply being stuck behind a loud truck are all things that can anger even the most relaxed of drivers.

A new wave of technology is making its way onto the market. These innovations are being created by carmakers and tech companies to improve the driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

With the introduction of features such as hill start assistance and parking sensors, cars are already becoming smarter and safer. Future technologies will not only help to further improve the way a car works, but also how they affect the world around us.

Car to car communication

Over the years there’s been talk of how digital devices will communicate with each other. You go out to the shops and your fridge notices that you have no eggs left, resulting in a text to your phone alerting you of the situation.

Whilst this technology isn’t going to be implemented anytime soon, we may be seeing it introduced into cars a lot sooner. Cars are already becoming more computerised as new models come out, so it seems like the natural thing to do.

Driving down the road and being alerted to the car ahead’s speed, direction and if they start to drift into a lane can be lifesaving information. Imagine being able to know if a person is going to turn right before they even indicate, giving you plenty of time to slow down.

Driver monitoring

The majority of accidents that happen on the road are due to human error. It’s easy to see why. How many times do people get behind the wheel if they’re feeling tired, or get distracted easily by either an electronic device or something outside the window? In some cases, some people have a stroke when driving.

Because of all these reasons, researchers are investing their time and effort into tech that monitors both the flesh and blood of a driver, helping them to avoid any accidents. One of the most notable additions is a sensor that can be seen in the passenger cabin. It monitors the drivers essential vitals such as heart rate, movement of the eyes and even the brain activity.

Some car makers are even developing technology that works to detect if a person is drunk driving. A specially placed sensor found in the gear stick measures the alcohol level in a drivers sweat, and car navigation systems sounding an alarm if erratic driving is detected.

Laser headlights

For many a year, the majority of car headlights were simple. They pointed ahead, allowing the driver to pick higher beams which allows much better visibility on the darkest of roads. Recently more energy efficient lights were introduced, including halogen and xenon.

The technology is getting even more sophisticated, with smart headlights that detect how bright or what direction they need to be pointed so that the driver can see properly. Laser high beams are able to light up the road ahead at least double the distance LED high beam headlights can. This is all done without using anywhere near as much energy.

One of the biggest problems people have with other peoples highlights is getting dazzled. The newest generation in LED lights use sensors so that they can tell if there’s any oncoming traffic. It then automatically moves the beams so you can see the road ahead without blinding another driver.

Self parking cars

Without even a second thought, parking a car is one of the most stressful parts of driving. Even for some of the most veteran drivers with years of experience, parallel parking can be a real struggle. There isn’t anything fun about driving around in circles, competing with other drivers trying to find the last space.

All of these reasons are why car makers have been developing technologies that can help make this process less stressful. We already have parking sensors, but just wait till you read the next step in parking technology.

With just a push of a button, a car can park itself. As you drive along your car will search for a free parking space to pull into. It will then park itself into the spot, even without you being in the car. Being able to park a car without you being within it has it’s own benefits, especially if there’s a situation where you won’t be able to open your door.

In Japan a driverless valet car parking system that relies on WI-FI and a series of cameras that are placed in the corner of the parking area. A motorist simply drives to a specific drop off point, gets out the car and watches it steer itself into a space that’s open. Once they’re ready to leave, they use their phone to bring the car to the pickup section, which would be a great help at a busy shopping centre.

Car technology and the future

Nissan Leaf

With more money being put into car technology than ever before, there has truly never been a better time to excited for what the future may hold. The technology that have been focused on in this article will get perfected, and then who knows what will be developed.

Who knows, in the future we may not even have to be behind the wheel when on a car journey. Technology is allowing cars to become more efficient and safer, even if the addition doesn’t seem to be that much of a deal. Only time will tell.

This blog was written by Jennifer Smith on behalf of Stratstone, the UK’s leading premium automotive retailer.

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Tips for Driving an Electric Car

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Range and battery life are a real concern for a lot of people who drive electric cars.  A lot of them are usually very anxious about driving their electric vehicles for long distances. However, individuals who follow these tips and use their cars appropriately will enjoy a longer battery life, and they will not suffer any anxiety while driving an electric car.

1.      Use apps to scout available charging stations in your route.

A bit of planning will literally help you to go a long way in your electric car. Before driving the electric car, it is important to know all the charging stations within your route. There are a lot of applications that can help you to scout for all available charging stations. These applications can help you to pinpoint a charging station on a map so that you do not find yourself hysterically searching for a charging point as your battery life dwindles towards zero.

2.      Slow down

While driving fast may be desirable, it will also drain your battery and grind you to a halt. Slowing down will impact your battery life, and help you to drive for longer without the need to recharge.

3.      Maintain your electric car

Electric cars are much easier to maintain than their oil-fuelled counterparts. However, a lot of people neglect them, and this can be detrimental on the road. A well-maintained electric car can serve its owner better. It is therefore better to always ensure that the tyre pressure is right, and that the tyres are rotated properly. You should also check the battery frequently, and replace it when necessary. Furthermore, you should follow the manufacturer’s manual and use the maintenance tips outlined there. A lot of driving schools these days, such as, my driving school, advice their students on how to properly maintain an electric car so that it serves them well.

4.      Always use the easy route

If there are two ways to get to a destination, always choose the one that will be less stressful to your car, and ultimately, to you. Avoid roads that are hilly or rocky as the vehicle consumes more battery in order to go through such paths. Always choose lanes and routes that are smoother and easier to drive on. This will help the car to preserve energy so that the driver can use it for longer.

5.      Try not to get lost

This looks like a fool-proof tip, but it is very important. Anyone who is worried about the range that their vehicle can cover should try as much as possible to get to their destination on time. Electric car owners should use all the tools at their disposal, including travel applications, GPS and maps to ensure that they do not waste precious energy trying to find their way.

Electric cars have a lot of benefits as they help their owners to reduce their carbon footprint while saving them a lot of fuel money. It is therefore paramount for electric car owners to follow these tips and more that are outlined in mydrivingschool.com.au, so that their vehicles can serve them well wherever they go.

 

About the Author

Mark Long is an avid researcher and an experienced writer on a number of topics. He has a passion for car-related topics, and frequently advices his readers on driving tips as outlined by my driving school at mydrivingschool.com.au

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Most Important things to know about Electric Cars and Hybrid Cars

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Guest post:

Eco friendly, the term has been creating quite a buzz for the past few years, especially in developed countries, these taking upon their shoulders the brunt of accusations levelled at industrialization for the globally inimical effects of development; the environmental activism hype still surging, the message being disseminated by those in power has always revolved around what those individuals with negligible authority on the world stage could do to assuage what many think is a dire situation.

Eco friendly cars have admittedly proven to be quite popular in developed countries, those that aren’t already sporting a hybrid car already making plans to acquire one, if only to attain comfort in travel while reducing their carbon footprints. With all the trepidations regarding Eco friendly vehicles, fears elicited by misinformation, it would behoove anyone intending to go the hybrid or electric way to take into consideration certain factors regarding these new age machines:

  • First of all, hybrids are considerably easy to drive, most people taking a rather skewed view of these vehicles because of the complications of their operations. However most hybrids are equipped with automatic transmissions, many taking advantage of continuously variable transmissions, the driving experience only accentuated by intricate displays detailing the exact amount of power you are using, allowing you some control over the amount of gas you are consuming. It is worth remembering to keep an eye on the road while analysing your battery meter.
  • Hybrid batteries last a considerably longer time than most people assume; the unfounded myth that hybrid batteries require continuous replacement at up to half the cost of the original vehicle is false; chances are by the time you need to replace your battery, it is probably the right time to relinquish ownership of your vehicle.
  • Be it manual transmission models, assisted trucks and luxury vehicles, there is more to the cast of hybrid vehicles than the Prius, this much loved vehicle alongside other Toyota products such as the Lexus currently prevailing in popularity and referred to many as the face of the hybrid world, so much so that most people place little effort in perusing the large varieties of hybrids on the market, designed to meet a diversity of needs.
  • Again despite the myths hybrid cars are capable of generating considerable levels of performance, the variety of models on the market so widespread that even sporty brands such as BMW are providing equally sporty and almost as reliably performing hybrid versions. You do not need to sacrifice economy in favour of performance in acquiring an electric car.
  • Indeed it is difficult to deny the fact that the hybrid’s most unattractive quality is its pricing; hybrid cars have always been priced higher than their fossil fuel powered counterparts and with current hybrid technologies this isn’t a trend that is likely to change any time soon. Yet the question isn’t how expensive hybrids are but whether what you are receiving is value for your money, which is what electric cars offer, a means through which to comfortably traverse distance without impacting the environment.
  • Yes electric cars do have a tendency to come in smaller packages than their gas powered counterparts, thought that doesn’t make them any less safe.

Probably the most important thing you need to realize before you buy any car is what all you require for driving it safely. If you want to get any information on driving licence contact to Dvla Contact.