Dec 13, 2023 | Various
Car covers protect your car from weather elements such as rain, snow, hail and UV rays. This helps prevent paint damage, rust and interior deterioration. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade your car's paint and damage the interior. A car cover with UV protection helps reduce the sun's harmful effects. Car covers act as a barrier against dust, dirt, bird droppings, tree sap and other pollutants that can deposit on the surface of your car. Whether you park your car in the garage or outside, covers provide a protective layer against scratches, dents from other vehicles or contact with objects. Car covers make it easier to remove tree sap and bird droppings. These substances can be corrosive and cause damage to paintwork if left untreated. Even if cars are stored indoors, they can accumulate dust and be exposed to potential hazards in garages. A car cover provides an extra layer of protection. Many car covers are designed to fit specific makes and models exactly, providing optimal protection for all contours of your car.
Choosing a car seat cover
When choosing a car seat cover take into account your specific needs, climatic conditions and where your car is usually stored. The right cover can extend the life of your car's exterior and interior by providing effective protection from various elements.
There are different types of car seat covers available, each designed for specific needs and conditions.
- Universal car covers: These are designed for a wide range of vehicles, making them versatile but may not fit exactly.
- Custom-made car covers: Tailor-made for specific makes and models, with a precise fit.
- Indoor covers: Designed for vehicles stored indoors to protect them from dust, scratches and other indoor hazards.
- Outdoor car covers: Built to withstand outdoor conditions such as rain, snow and UV rays.
- All-Weather car covers: Versatile covers designed to provide protection in different weather conditions.
- Waterproof car covers: Specifically designed to repel water and protect against rain.
- Sun-resistant car covers: Equipped with UV-resistant materials to protect against sunlight.
- Hail-resistant car covers: Equipped with extra padding or durable materials to absorb shocks during hailstorms.
- Dust-proof car covers: Densely woven fabrics prevent dust and particles from depositing on the vehicle.
- Cable and lock accessories: Additional accessories to secure the car cover to the vehicle.
Which material?
When choosing the right information on seat covers for autodoc.co.uk your car, you need to consider several factors to ensure they meet your preferences and needs.
- Material: Leather: Gives a luxurious look and feel. It is durable and resistant to stains.
- Neoprene: Water-resistant and suitable for an active lifestyle. It is durable and offers a good fit.
- Canvas: Durable and hard-wearing. It gives a cool look and is often easy to clean.
- Mesh fabric: Breathable and suitable for warm climates. It is comfortable, but may not be as durable as other materials.
- Velour: feels softer and more comfortable. It is often less resistant to stains.
What else should you consider when choosing a suitable cover?
- Fit: Choose seat covers designed for your specific car make and model. A customised fit ensures a neat appearance and good functionality.
- Style: Consider the overall style and aesthetic you want for your car's interior. Seat covers come in different styles, from sporty to elegant, so you can customise the look.
- Ease of installation: Choose seat covers that are easy to install and remove. Some are designed with straps, hooks or elastic cords for a secure fit.
- Comfort: If comfort is a priority, consider chair covers with extra padding or ergonomic features. Gel inserts or memory foam can improve the sitting experience.
- Protection: Choose seat covers that offer sufficient protection against spills, stains and wear. Waterproof or water-resistant materials can be advantageous.
- Maintenance: Keep in mind how easy chair covers are to clean. Materials that can be machine washed or easily wiped clean can save time and effort.
Climate considerations
For warm climates, breathable materials such as mesh or neoprene may be suitable. In cold climates, consider materials that offer insulation and warmth. Remember to check the specific details and features of the seat covers you are considering and take measurements of your car seats to ensure a proper fit. Regular use of a car cover will ensure that the exterior of your car stays beautiful, contributing to a higher resale value when it comes time to trade in your car.
Sep 8, 2023 | Financial |
A business car is a vehicle that can affect the efficiency and appearance of your business. Whether you are just starting out or already quite a ways down the road, a business car can be a good purchase. When looking for a new business car, it is good to consider some things. In this blog, we will give you a hand in choosing your new business car.
Business needs
Before making your choice, it is very important to determine your business needs. What will you use the car for? Will you visit customers a lot, will you mostly transport goods or will you use the car mostly privately as well? How many passengers need to fit in the car and what space do you need? Understanding these factors will ensure you have a clear outline of the kind of car you are looking for.
Consider all options
Besides being able to buy a new car, you have several options. At companies such as Dutchlease you can choose to lease a car. This can be an interesting option. After all, you can choose from a wide range of cars. Don't want to pay too much? A occasion lease business from Dutchlease is also a good option. Here you choose from a range of used cars. This way, you do get to buy a car for your business without incurring too many costs. You can also choose to buy a used car. Do look carefully at the conditions before you buy it.
Budget and costs
Before making a bigger purchase for your business, it is important to look at the financial aspect of your business. Calculate your budget and take into account the purchase and additional costs. Look carefully at what you are looking for and what is within your budget. Also look carefully at maintenance costs. With some cars, parts are scarce, which can make the price skyrocket. If you opt for a business lease car, you do not have to take any repairs or insurance into account.
Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, including in traffic. Therefore, consider choosing a car with low CO2 emissions or opt for a hybrid or fully electric car. Not only will you contribute to a better environment, but you can also benefit from tax advantages and lower costs in the long run. These things also ensure a presentable appearance. This is very important when working with customers. Also, don't forget to take a test drive before buying the car. This way, you can be sure that you have chosen the right car that suits your needs. What will your new business car look like?
Sep 1, 2023 | Insurance |
Do you own a vintage car and want to insure it? And is this different from insurance for a new car?
Indeed, vintage car insurance differs from insurance for a new car in several ways because of the specific characteristics of vintage cars. First, let us look at what a vintage car is:
What is an oldtimer?
What is a vintage car? A vintage car is generally a vehicle that meets certain criteria to be considered an "oldtimer". These criteria may vary from country to country and insurer to insurer, but in the Netherlands the following applies:
An oldtimer is a vehicle that has reached a certain age, until 2014 this was so if a car was 25 years old or older. However, this has been changed, you can now only speak of an oldtimer when the car is older than 40 years.
This is the date of 1st admission on the registration certificate.
Vintage cars are often cars with limited use that are brought out for special events, exhibitions or on a nice summer day for a nice drive. Cars for the real enthusiast, in other words. They are often gems in excellent condition, lovingly maintained, restored and kept in original condition. Of course, there are exceptions to this 😉
Insurance for vintage cars
Now, regarding insurance for vintage cars:
Oldtimer Insurance vs. Insurance for a New Car:
- Possible lower premium: One of the potential advantages of insuring a vintage car is that premiums are usually lower than those for regular car insurance. This is because vintage cars are often used less and are usually well maintained, which reduces the risk of damage.
- Agreed value: Unlike most car insurance policies, where the value of the car is determined based on its current market value, vintage car insurance often allows you to agree on an agreed value. This means that you and the insurer agree how much the car is worth in case of a total loss, and you get paid that amount in case of a claim.
- Restrictions on use: Vintage car insurance policies may impose restrictions on the use of the car, such as a maximum mileage per year and requiring a second vehicle for daily use.
- Required membership: Some insurers may require you to be a member of a recognised vintage car club to qualify for vintage car insurance.
- Valuation report: When taking out vintage car insurance, you may have to provide a valuation report to establish the value of the car.
Where to buy vintage car insurance?
It is important to note that the exact terms and coverage of vintage car insurance policies can vary, so it is wise to talk to several insurers and compare quotes before making a decision. Also, the definition of a vintage car and the requirements for vintage car insurance can vary by region, so make sure you understand the local laws and regulations.
In any case, what comes highly recommended is to look at Univé's website. They have a good oldtimer insurance at a competitive premium. Univé has three variants of classic car insurance: WA, WA+ and All-risk. You can also choose various additional cover such as legal aid and damage for passengers/occupants.
In addition to car insurance, Univé also various other insurances.
Advantages of vintage car driving?
Driving a vintage car can provide certain (tax) benefits in some cases, but these benefits can vary greatly depending on location and specific legislation. Here are some potential benefits that can be associated with owning a vintage car:
- Vintage cars are also exempt from road tax, this only applies if the car is in your private name. This exemption does not apply to companies.
- If you want to import an oldtimer, you do not have to pay BPM. However, you will have to go through the BPM declaration procedure to get the vehicle registered in the Netherlands.
- Possible lower insurance premiums: As mentioned earlier, vintage cars sometimes have lower insurance premiums because they are considered hobby vehicles and are usually used less. This can result in savings on insurance costs.
- Reduced depreciation: In some cases, the depreciation (drop in value) of a vintage car can be slower than that of a regular car. This means you have less capital loss, which can be beneficial if you want to sell the car.
- Last but not least, everyone will look at you admiringly as you drive by in your beautiful car. Not wrong!
However, it is important to note that these benefits are not universal and can vary greatly depending on your location and the specific laws and regulations that apply there. Moreover, some benefits may only apply to vintage cars that meet certain criteria, such as a minimum age or rarity.
Aug 10, 2023 | EV |
A plug-in hybrid car (PHEV) is a car that has both a combustion engine and an electric motor. Some people do say, the best of 2 worlds! The electric motor can be charged through a plug, giving the car an electric range. If the battery is dead, the car can still run on the combustion engine and you, don't have to worry about the nearest charging station.
More and more plug-in hybrids are entering the market but is it a smart choice? In this article, the pros and cons of a PHEV.
What are the advantages of a plug-in hybrid?
The advantages of a PHEV are:
- Lower CO2 emissions than an internal combustion engine-only car
- Lower fuel costs than an internal combustion engine-only car
- Quieter driving than an internal combustion engine-only car
- More power than a car with only an electric motor
- Discount on road tax (although this will be slowly phased out)
The disadvantages of a PHEV are:
- The purchase price is higher than an internal combustion engine-only car
- The battery should be charged regularly
- Range on electricity is limited
- The battery makes the car heavier
In general, PHEVs are a good choice for people who want a car with low CO2 emissions and lower fuel costs. Plug-in hybrids are also a good choice for people who regularly make short journeys, as they allow you to drive fully electric and save considerably on fuel.
Do you still need to fill up with a plug in hybrid?
Suppose you only make short trips and can actually drive on the electric motor all the time, is it still necessary to refuel? Unfortunately, yes. It is not possible to drive only electric, occasionally it is necessary to drive on the fuel engine. In fact, you will find that a PHEV will automatically give notification that you need to drive on fuel. In some cases, it will even give this automatically. Why is that?
Shelf life of fuel in PHEV
The shelf life of fuel in the tank depends on a number of factors, including fuel quality, temperature and humidity. Generally, fuel in a closed tank lasts about 3 months. If the tank is not completely full, water can enter the tank, reducing the fuel's shelf life. Also, the fuel may oxidise, making it burn less well.
With a plug-in hybrid car, you need to fill up less often than with an internal combustion engine-only car. This is because you can charge the car with electricity. The exact frequency of refuelling depends on how you use the car, its electric range and the availability of charging points. If you drive the car mainly electric, you might only need to refuel once a month. If you often drive the car long distances, you may need to refuel more often.
Either way, it is necessary to run on fuel regularly so that the tank runs out and you have to fill up with new fuel. This is important for preserving the engine, starter battery and other components in the car. This way, you ensure that the engine keeps running properly.
What are the financial benefits of a PHEV?
At the time of writing (2023), there is really only 1 financial benefit for plug-in hybrids (besides lower fuel consumption); road tax rebates.
Road tax is a tax you have to pay if you own a car. PHEVs with CO2 emissions of less than 50 grams per kilometre get 50% rebates on this tax. This has been extended until 2024.
Previously, there was also discount on purchase tax (BPM), lower additional taxable income and subsidy on purchase costs but this has since been abolished. These benefits now only apply to fully electric vehicles.
Is a plug-in hybrid really environmentally friendly?
PHEVs are generally more environmentally friendly than combustion-only cars, but of course they have higher emissions than fully electric cars. The CO2 emissions of a PHEV depend on how the car is used. If the car is mainly driven electrically, CO2 emissions are low. If the car is often driven long distances on the combustion engine, CO2 emissions are higher.
Research shows that in practice, the CO2 emissions of PHEVs are often higher than promised by car manufacturers. In practice, this is mainly because the range of PHEVs is limited and many people drive long distances on fuel. Because a plug-in hybrid has a heavy battery on board, it is a heavy car which naturally requires a lot of fuel. The petrol (or diesel) engine then has to work hard to reach the desired level, leading to much higher emission values than a normal petrol or diesel car.
It is therefore not for nothing that the government is phasing out tax breaks for PHEVs. In practice, these cars are not at all as environmentally friendly as the manufacturers promise, so preferential financial treatment would be misplaced.
How can you reduce the CO2 emissions of a PHEV?
If you want to buy a PHEV, it is important to be aware of the car's CO2 emissions. You can reduce a PHEV's CO2 emissions by charging the car often and by driving electric for short distances.
Here are some tips to reduce your PHEV's CO2 emissions:
- Charge the car regularly.
- Drive electric for short distances.
- Avoid driving on the internal combustion engine when not needed.
- Choose a PHEV with low CO2 emissions.
What is the measurement method for emissions?
The European Commission has developed a measurement method for the emissions of plug-in hybrid cars (PHEVs). This method is called WLTP, which stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure. WLTP is a harmonised test method for measuring the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of light vehicles. The test method was developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the International Council for Engine Purity (SAE International).
WLTP is a more realistic test method than its predecessor, NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). NEDC was based on a theoretical driving pattern that did not match real-world conditions. WLTP is based on a driving pattern composed of a number of different driving modes, including city driving, highway driving and country roads.
WLTP is a complex testing method that costs a lot of time and money. However, the test method is necessary to get a realistic picture of the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of PHEVs.
The European Commission has made the WLTP test method mandatory for all new PHEVs launched on the market from 1 September 2018.
At the time of writing, the European Commission is also busy working on an even more realistic measurement method of the consumption and emissions of plug-in hybrid cars. This may yet have a big impact on, for example, road tax, sales prices and availability of (new) PHEV cars. We look forward to hearing about developments!
Popular PHEVs
There are many popular plug-in hybrid cars on the market. Some of the most popular models are:
- Volkswagen Golf GTE: The Golf GTE has an electric range of 59 kilometres.
- Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid: The Niro Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 62 kilometres.
- Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid: The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 66 kilometres.
- Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid: The Kuga Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 50 kilometres.
- Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid: The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of 61 kilometres.
- Mercedes C300e plug-in hybrid
- BMW 330e
Aug 10, 2023 | EV |
We regularly hear the term mild hybrid come up, what exactly does it stand for? And what are the pros and cons? Hybrid cars have grown rapidly in popularity and may be a good (and affordable) alternative to fully electric driving. By 2035, it will be illegal to market cars that emit CO2, but until then, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars will still be on the market. If you are looking for a new (or second-hand) car and a mild hybrid model is on your list, you probably want to know more about what exactly a mild hybrid car is.
What types of hybrid cars are there?
First, it is important to say that a hybrid car is not the same as an electric car. All hybrid cars combine a combustion engine and an electric motor. In an all-electric car, there is no combustion engine.
First, let's take a look at what types of hybrid cars there are:
- full hybrid
- mild hybrid (or half hybrid)
- plug-in hybrid
What are the differences?
As the name suggests, hybrids are very similar yet different. All hybrids combine a combustion engine and an electric motor.
- A full hybrid car can drive small distances fully electric, but does not need to be charged at a charging station or socket. You can choose to drive fully on the electric motor and/or fully on the combustion engine. Using the fuel engine will charge the battery. Popular full hybrid models include the Toyota Prius, Lexux CT200h and Kia Niro.
- A plug-in hybrid you do need to charge and often has a larger battery and powerful electric motor, allowing you to drive longer distances fully electric. Plug-in hybrids are abbreviated to PHEV. There are more and more plug-in hybrid cars on the market, examples of plug-in and combustion engine cars include the BMW 330e, Volkswagen Golf GTE and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.
- A mild hybrid (or half hybrid), as the name suggests, is right at the other end of that spectrum and is simpler than a regular hybrid. You cannot drive fully electric with this but is supportive of the fuel engine. This is also called a Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle or MHEV for short. We discuss this type in more detail below:
Mild hybrid car
The addition of 'mild' means that a mild hybrid car does it in a smaller scale and less powerful way than a plug-in or full hybrid car, the main difference being in the battery. Unlike hybrids where only the battery can power the car and therefore works just like an electric car, a mild hybrid cannot. This means that besides the battery, you are always using your internal combustion engine (petrol or diesel). While this may not seem very useful, the concept has proved popular enough for many brands such as Audi, Kia, Volvo and Ford to all develop mild hybrid models.
The mechanics of a mild hybrid work just like a full hybrid, with a battery that recharges every time the car brakes. A mild hybrid car never has a plug and the battery in these cars cannot run the wheels without the engine also running.
In terms of handling, a mild hybrid offers little difference between a normal petrol or diesel car. In that sense, it is more an evolution of a standard car than a range for zero emissions. Mild hybrids, unlike electric cars, can be driven with manual transmissions. Ultimately, they offer the same driving experience people are used to, with the added support power of a battery.
Should I buy a mild hybrid car?
This naturally leads us to the next most obvious question: why do people buy a mild hybrid rather than a hybrid or fully electric vehicle? There is no advantage in terms of road tax and they don't have the ability to run purely on battery power. This is unfortunate for short drives because you will always consume fuel with MHEV. Nevertheless, for drivers who are not quite ready for the electric switch, there are a few reasons to go mild hybrid:
- Lower emissions: They are not completely emission-free, but they are better than traditional internal combustion engine cars without the added help of an electric battery. During coasting, the engine can be switched off completely and transfer the battery to help reduce fuel consumption and hence emissions.
- Lower costs: The addition of a battery means less work for the engine, thus saving fuel. For those looking for driving experience they are used to while benefiting from electric car technology, a mild hybrid is an excellent choice.
- Cheaper than a hybrid: Mild hybrids are cheaper than hybrids or electric cars, so for some they serve as a good alternative on the basis of finances alone. Of course, ideally we could all get into an electric car and be prepared for the zero-emission revolution, but in practice, mild hybrids occupy an important place in the market.
- No charging stress: Since mild hybrids never run on the electric motor alone, there is no risk of coming to a standstill somewhere along the road with a flat battery. Mild hybrids drive quietly as long as their tank is full.
Popular mild hybrid cars
There are several mild hybrid cars on the market today, some examples:
- Ford Cougar
- Ford Fiesta
- Audi A4 and A8
- Fiat 500
- Fiat Panda
- Kia Sportage
- Hyundai Tucson
- Suzuki Swift
The precise mild hybrid technology in each car varies. The Audi A8's system, for example, ensures that the engine is completely switched off for up to 40 seconds while coasting. This allows the battery to take over and deliver lower fuel consumption. In other models, such as the Suzuki Swift, the battery exists to support rather than replace the engine.
Not all cars with mild hybrids are made to be environmentally friendly. The addition of a battery means more power, so in race cars, one may be added to improve the performance of the vehicle, rather than for environmental reasons.
Is a mild hybrid car worth it?
Depending on your priorities, a mild hybrid car could be a good choice. They offer lower fuel consumption and emissions. While you will not get the zero emissions of an electric vehicle or even a full hybrid, it is certainly a step in the right direction compared to a traditional car.
Because the battery can also lead to more torque while driving, many will feel that mild hybrids allow for a smoother ride, with the engine working noticeably less during hard acceleration.
Do mild hybrids need to be charged?
No. Unlike full hybrids that come with plug-in options, you do not need to charge the battery in a mild hybrid. This is mainly because the battery is smaller than a full hybrid. Regenerative braking is enough to keep it powered. Since this means you charge the battery every time you brake, the small battery doesn't need any help to stay on sufficient power.
Are mild hybrids suitable for long distances?
A mild hybrid car works like a regular car, so there is no reason why you cannot make the same journey as with a petrol or diesel car. The difference is that you will notice that the engine sometimes works a bit harder. Unlike full electric cars that have a fixed electric range per charge, a mild hybrid does not run the risk of a dead battery stopping working. Of course, you should then remember to fill up your tank from time to time!
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