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DoneDeal Agri, Ireland’s largest farming marketplace, are delighted to announce that our expert team will be at the 2022 National Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Co.Laois. The championships will take place between the 20th and 22nd of September and expects to attract approximately 80,000 people per day. This year provides an extra sense of excitement as the 67th World Ploughing Contest will also be hosted by Ireland. The 2022 National Ploughing Championships will provide the perfect opportunity to catch up with our expert team and we are really looking forward to chatting to our customers across the 3 days. What does DoneDeal Agri have planned for the Ploughing? Chance to Win a brand new Honda 420FM Quad: We are super excited to share that we will be giving away a brand new quad bike worth €10,000 to one lucky winner! To enter, you will need to scan the QR Code at our stand so be sure to pop in to us. Win DoneDeal Agri Merchandise: We will also be running a series of mini-games throughout the Ploughing Championships and we will be giving away DoneDeal Agri Merchandise. Meet the Team: The 3 day event is the perfect time to meet our expert team. We are passionate about what we do and we love talking to our valued customers and hearing your feedback. If you need any advice or help, don't hesitate to ask! Make sure to visit our stand to be in with a chance of winning this brand new Honda 420FM quad worth €10,000! If you’re attending this year's ploughing make sure to visit our stand. See where we’re located below: Block 2 Row 23 Stand 381 We are giving non ploughing goers a chance to win this brand new quad worth €10,000 also! Scan the QR code below to enter (you must be 17 years+ to enter): FAQs: How much are the tickets for the event? (Prices are day specific) Adults - €25 Senior Citizens - €20 (ID may be required at the gate) Secondary School Students - €20 (through group bookings only)) Family Ticket (2 Adults & 2 Secondary School Students only) - €80 College Students - €25 Children under 12 go free once accompanied by an adult. When does it all start? Exhibition Arena Opens: 09.00 - 18.00 Ploughing Competitions: 10.30 - 14.30 Entertainment Programme: 10.00 - 18.00 Fashion Shows: 11.30/13.30/15.30 For all other information visit: https://www.npa.ie/

Ordinarily, the end of spring signals the end of the Bird Flu season, as wild migratory birds which are the natural hosts of avian influenza viruses return to their usual breeding sites after overwintering in Ireland. This content is brought to you by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Unusually, this year the avian influenza H5N1 virus has persisted in wild birds in Europe throughout the summer months, leading to a need for appropriate biosecurity and heightened vigilance for spread of the disease into poultry flocks. The disease is highly contagious amongst birds, but the risk of transmission to humans is considered low. As with all influenza A viruses, however, there is a potential for zoonotic spread (spread from animals to humans) and so it is wise to take appropriate precautions, by avoiding handling sick and dead wild birds. The disease poses no food safety risk for consumers. Properly cooked poultry products, including eggs are safe to eat. The presence of avian influenza viruses in wild birds presents a risk to both Irish wild birds and poultry as the disease continues to be reported in wild birds including sea bird species across many European countries including Ireland. Avian influenza can be spread through direct contact between birds and the droppings of infected birds. As the virus is known to be circulating in wild birds at present, any contact between wild birds or their droppings and poultry could spread the disease. Biosecurity is the best protection against avian influenza for Irish poultry Poultry owners and those working with poultry should be aware when returning from areas, both at home and abroad where sick or dead wild birds have been present. Biosecurity precautions should always be taken before coming in contact with poultry. This helps to protect poultry from many infectious diseases, not just avian influenza. Ideally, dedicated footwear and clothing, as well as disinfection points, should be used on all poultry holdings - irrespective of the number of birds on site. Clothing and footwear worn in areas where sick or dead wild birds have been present should never be brought into contact with poultry without proper cleaning and disinfection. Biosecurity advice to help both commercial and non-commercial poultry owners protect their birds from avian influenza for can be found on www.gov.ie/birdflu Public health advice The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine reminds members of the public not to touch or pick up any dead or visibly sick birds. If dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey are found, they should be reported through the Avian Check App or the Avian Influenza Hotline 01 607 2512 (during office hours) or 01 492 8026 (outside office hours). Pets should be kept away from sick and dead wild birds. Dogs should be kept on a leash where sick or dead wild birds are present. Source: Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine

This year’s Cannonball returned in fine fashion and our features writer Justin Delaney was on hand to soak up the atmosphere. On the 9th of September the action-packed supercar spectacle, kicked off from Malahide Castle in an effort to raise much needed funds for The HOPE Foundation. Cannonball, fuelled by milesPLUS from Circle K, is the largest organised road trip in Europe and this year the event had some 215 car entries including cars from Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren, Aston Martin Porsche, Rolls Royce, Bentley and Maserati. Novelty cars play a big part in Cannonball also and this years event had the first ever Ecto-1 Ghostbusters car built in Ireland proudly presented by Galway Bay Brewery. The build commenced with a 1960 Cadillac and took 5 years to transform into Ecto-1 including the iconic roof rack, Proton Packs, Ecto Goggles, P.K.E. Meters, and a slew of Ghost Traps. The car is 23 ft long with a straight piped 6.4 litre short block V8 motor. For Cannonball it was fitted with a jaw dropping laser light show, smoke machines and full PA system to keep viewers entertained. Shadowing the Ghostbusters Ecto-1 was a Bespoke Land Rover Defender support vehicle complete with Slimer mounted to the front and the famous Delorean from Back To The Future. Aside from the various and many Circle K fuel stops the rally stopped for lunch in The Blue Haven Kinsale in Co Cork before moving on to the Brehon Hotel in Killarney in Co Kerry for its first overnight stay. On Saturday September 10th the convoy left Killarney and stopped for lunch at The Oslo Bar in Salthill Co Galway before travelling onwards to Sligo town for the second finish line and overnight stay. On Sunday September 11th Rosses Point Sligo was to be the start line before a lunch stop at Kilronan Castle and dramatic final finish line in Trim Co. Meath. The event has already raised €1,298,779 for Irish charities and, this year, the official charity of Cannonball was once again The HOPE Foundation who are doing incredible work with the street children of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) in India. HOPE funds and operates over 60 projects including 11 child protection homes, a hospital, an ambulance, counselling, food and nutrition, education, healthcare and the restoration of childhoods to children. See https://www.hopefoundation.ie/cannonball/ By way of a little background Cannonball was founded by Kildare businessman Alan Bannon and the benefit to the host towns for this event is estimated at €2,567,000 per year. Cannonball was fuelled by milesPLUS from Circle K as the main headline Sponsor for 2022. The Tour Sponsor this year is Apache Pizza and Cannonball official partners include Galway Bay Brewery, Manhattan Popcorn, Bonavox, Karl Goodwin Motors, AB Signs, and BMW Ireland. After the three day drive, Cannonball raised close on €150,000 for the HOPE Foundation meaning in just two years Cannonball has raised over a quarter of million euro for this charity. Cannonball remains the at the pinnacle of Irish supercar events with people who share the same passion for cars, business and raising money for a great causes.

DoneDeal, Ireland's largest car website, has released the latest figures on the demand amongst Irish car buyers for new cars. The country's most in demand new car is electric, the Volkswagen ID.4. This is the first year that an EV has been the most in demand new car across all fuel types on DoneDeal. DoneDeal looked at all new car (2022) ad view data on site for the period from January - August 2022 and found that, for the first time, new car buyers on DoneDeal rank an electric car above all other cars and fuel types. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6 also represented EVs in the top 10 most popular new cars amongst DoneDeal car buyers so far this year. These historic observations cement the shifting attitudes of buyers towards EVs and provide a notable signal of Ireland’s electric evolution racing into 2023. August 2022 saw a 30% year on year growth in the demand for new EVs on DoneDeal, while demand for new diesel cars fell by 26% in the same period. Shifting perceptions of EVs amongst Irish drivers and favourable government grants has led to 12,661 new electric cars on our roads since the beginning of 2022, an 80% increase compared with January to August last year (SIMI). While petrol and diesel still dominate overall market share, electric vehicles now account for 13.31% (SIMI). The proposed ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars coupled with unprecedented rising fuel costs has placed an impetus on buyers to switch to electric cars. Car manufacturers now offering longer ranges on EVs presents further optimism for the future of EVs in this country, so long as charging infrastructure, stock levels and energy prices keep pace with appetite. Begin your electric car journey today with the home of Ireland's most trusted car dealerships. DoneDeal is Ireland's No.1 motor website with over 70 million car searches taking place annually. One car ad is placed every minute on DoneDeal, with over 600,000 cars advertised each year. DoneDeal has the largest range of new & used cars for sale in Ireland, with over 68,000 on sale today. Over 90% of Ireland's car dealerships are on DoneDeal.

Car price Inflation still happening but the rate of inflation is slowing, showing signs of price stabilisation in the market. Download full report Since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, both supply and demand for cars in Ireland has been hit with numerous and unprecedented shocks. Brexit and global component shortages hit supply hard, coupled with increased demand from pandemic savings, both acted to make prices rise at rates never before documented in Ireland. "Although price increases are slowing down for more expensive combustion engine cars, EVs and hybrids (both accounting for 12.5% of cars in the upper end of the market), which are generally positioned in that price range, are still experiencing unwavering price growth." Dr. Tom Gillespie, DoneDeal's Car Price Index. In the 2 years since the pandemic began, prices rose consecutively by an average of 5.9% per quarter. In the 2 years prior to the pandemic, the average quarterly rate of inflation was just 0.8%. As of Q2 2022, prices are now 63.7% more than they were just before the onset of Covid-19. If the used car market can be thought of as a sign of things to come, then it surely acted as the canary in the coalmine for inflation in the wider economy. As inflation bites in the wider economy, the cost of living coupled with increased interest rates has subdued demand. An analysis of demand related metrics on DoneDeal indicates that car demand is down 2.4% year on year but still 12.4% above pre pandemic levels. On the supply side, although the deficit for new cars is still very acute when compared to pre-pandemic levels (-19% vs 2019 for the first 6 months of the year), year-on-year it is up slightly at 2.1% for the first 6 months. However, used car imports are down 32.6% for the year to date, compared to the same time period last year (SIMI). This new balance between supply and demand has meant that the rate of price inflation has slowed somewhat to 3.9% in Q2 2022, thus giving signs that the price volatility in the overall market for used cars might at last be stabilising. This absolute average rate of inflation masks the dichotomy between the two ends of the car market. When we look at the equivalent figures for the lower end of the market, cars worth €6,000 or less, the quarterly rate of inflation is 7.3%, broadly in line with the average quarterly inflation of 8% over the past two years. This consistent and considerable post-pandemic quarterly inflation in cheaper cars means that prices are now 96.9% higher than just before the pandemic. On the other end of the spectrum, quarterly inflation for higher priced cars (cars more than €19,000), has slowed to 1.5% in the second quarter of 2022. This is down from a quarterly average of 4.5% in the past two years. The resulting post-pandemic inflation rate in the upper end of the market is now at 43.8%. The contrast in rates of inflation come down to several factors. In the lower end of the market, supply has been really stretched. Celtic tiger year cars (2003 - 2008), of which there was once a major glut, are now quickly becoming obsolete. Replacing the needed supply of older cars is difficult, as they are generally higher in carbon dioxide emissions and therefore subject to more stringent emissions tariffs. For a cohort of the population who can’t afford cleaner and more expensive cars, there will always be a necessity for cheaper cars. It is therefore likely that prices in the lower end of the market will continue to rise until cheaper car prices in the UK, plus tariffs, are competitive with the equilibrium level of prices in Ireland. From an emissions reduction perspective, this is problematic, as older cars generally emit considerably greater levels of CO2 and harmful particulates. In the upper end of the market, there is a different story. Although price increases are slowing down for more expensive combustion engine cars, EVs and hybrids (both accounting for 12.5% of cars in the upper end of the market), which are generally positioned in that price range, are still experiencing unwavering price growth. "The resale value of Electric Vehicles is no longer in doubt." Dr. Tom Gillespie, DoneDeal's Car Price Index. Prices for used hybrid cars rose by 2.8% in Q2 2022, this is in line with the average quarterly rate of inflation since the pandemic of 2.8% also. EVs on the other hand experienced a quarterly rate of inflation in Q2 2022 of 6.6%, well above the post-pandemic quarterly average of 2.4%. The strong demand and hence price growth in used EVs and hybrids is also reflected in the share of new car registrations. In the first half of 2021, EVs accounted for 6.8% of new cars in Ireland; in the first half of 2022, that figure almost doubled to 13%. Similarly with hybrids, where 25.2% of new cars in H1 2021 were hybrids, in the year to end of June 2022: 31%.

Buying a car is a difficult decision. Switching from fuel-combustion engines to electric cars is also a major decision. Since their introduction, electric vehicles have made huge technological strides to improve performance and efficiency. However, some drivers and car buyers are still hesitant to switch from traditional diesel and petrol-powered engines. Ireland is ready for a full-blown electric car revolution, with improvements in battery ranges, expansion of charging networks and grants to reduce prices. Unfortunately, you will still face multiple obstacles in running a pure electric vehicle. Read on to learn about electric car pros and cons. What is an electric car? Internal combustion engines have always taken the lead in powering personal transport. However, the recent announcement regarding a ban on fuel-powered vehicles by 2030 has increased the public's interest in electric vehicles. Strict legislation on emission targets and pollution has made car manufacturers switch to more environmentally friendly power sources. With electricity gaining momentum as a power source for cars, many people now embrace them. Pure electric cars still make up a small percentage of vehicles sold in Ireland, but the uptake is rising steadily. The dramatic rise in plug-in vehicle sales is attributed to the market's increased PHEV options. Electric car pros and cons explained Plug-in hybrids feature electric drives and internal combustion engines. While they don't deliver zero emissions like pure electric vehicles, they are useful interim solutions. Some electric vehicles use hydrogen fuel cells to power an electric motor. However, unlike conventional EVs, they are expensive and even fewer refuelling stations are available. The benefits of electric cars Engaging drive Electric cars are fun to drive and highly responsive. The torque available from the electric motor provides the excellent acceleration often offered by sports cars. Instead of a fuel engine, EVs use electric motors that react more quickly, providing additional torque and agility for better driving. You also don't have to worry about switching gears since electric motors don't need to engage gears before starting. The car moves forward and accelerates within seconds after stepping on the accelerator. Electric vehicles also have regenerative braking, which means you start braking before even stepping on the brake pedal. Regenerative braking doesn't just improve your driving experience; it conserves energy by converting braking energy into electric energy to recharge the battery. Besides efficiency, electric cars are silent and provide a comfortable, relaxing drive. Most electric manufacturers design electric cars with batteries installed on the vehicle's floor. The lowered centre of gravity improves handling and the ride features. It reduces the discomfort of driving a suspended car with a heavy internal combustion engine. While PHEVs have added weight compared to electric cars, they are almost as refined and engaging to drive as pure electric cars. Since the cars have an electric motor, they are responsive and quieter when powering the vehicle using the battery. Low maintenance and running costs Recharging an electric vehicle saves you thousands of pounds in the long run compared to the costs of refuelling petrol and diesel-powered cars. Most EV owners charge their vehicles overnight to ensure they're ready to drive in the morning. When you recharge at night, you will use electricity at a lower unit rate than charging during the day. The price of charging and fuelling at the pump is significantly less for covering the same mileage. When using public charging facilities, electricity tariffs are twice the domestic energy rates, but the cost is still lower than buying petrol or diesel. When you have a diesel or petrol-powered car, you must go for regular oil changes. The engines also have multiple moving parts that require replacement after some time, including pumps, valves and various fluids. Electric vehicles require minimal maintenances due to fewer components and moving parts. Besides, they last longer due to less wear and tear. Even plug-in hybrids have lower maintenance than conventional cars. For instance, wear & tear on brakes and tyres are reduced due to regenerative braking. While EV insurance costs are similar to conventional cars, EV drivers are considered lower risks, and you can enjoy slightly reduced premiums. Electric vehicles can also save you from charges associated with carbon emissions. Ultra-low emissions Electric vehicles produce ultra-low emissions. While they are zero-emission during use, car manufacturers generate pollutants during production and electricity generation processes. Electric cars minimise pollution from carbon emissions by eliminating exhaust fumes, and the power stations also have ultra-low air pollution. When you use green tariffs or renewable energy like solar to recharge your car, greenhouse gas emissions are non-existent. The reduced carbon footprint is due to the energy efficiency of EVs compared to conventional cars. Regenerative braking returns energy to the battery, improving fuel efficiency. Electric vehicles have significantly reduced nitrous oxide and particulate pollution. The pollutants are usually emitted from power stations, but the overall impact is low compared to emissions from the exhausts of petrol and diesel cars. When renewable energy is used, the lifecycle regulated emissions for electric vehicles are reduced. While plug-in hybrids have carbon emissions, it is less than conventional cars. Downsides of electric vehicles Few charging stations Charging electric cars is a major challenge. Most car manufacturers offer a three-pin domestic plug that allows you to charge your car at home. Some also offer a complementary fast-charging wallbox, which allows you to charge your car faster by connecting it directly to mains power. The downside is that you need a dedicated place nearby an electrical supply to park the car. Most domestic garages are rarely used for parking cars, while some motorists don't have access to off-street parking options, especially in modern areas. It is also challenging to fit a domestic charging point if you live in a rented apartment. Though you can find many electric charging stations in cities and urban areas, small towns have few charging points. If you are driving for a long distance, there is no guarantee you will find a charging spot in some areas. Charging time When you use conventional cars, it takes a few minutes to fuel your vehicle at the pump and continue your journey. You won't have that luxury with electric vehicles. The fastest charging time for EVs is 30 minutes, and the car will only recharge to 80% capacity. Some cars need eight hours to charge for optimal performance. That means you have to recharge your car overnight if you want to use it in the morning. Using an electric vehicle requires planning and a good habit of keeping it plugged in when parked. Battery range Range anxiety is a major downside of having electric vehicles. Some EV owners constantly worry that the charge will not get them to their destination due to batteries with limited ranges. Current electric cars can deliver 300 to 400 kilometers on a full charge, but car manufacturers are constantly increasing EV ranges. If you charge the car every time you park, battery range will not be a major issue. You can also explore the latest PHEVs if you frequently go for long trips. Expensive Electric vehicles have a higher price tag when buying a new or used model. If you compare the prices of petrol or diesel-fuelled cars with EVs, you pay a premium price for an electric car from the same brand. Grants can cut costs, but the purchase price is still higher. Are electric cars suitable for you? When you weigh electric car pros and cons, you can determine whether an electric vehicle is suitable for you. The benefits of electric cars are clear-cut, but it is crucial to understand the downsides of using EVs. For instance, it may cost more to buy an electric vehicle, but reduced lifetime running costs may make them worth it. EVs are also perfect if you drive less, like running quick errands or daily commutes to the office. If you enjoy road trips, PHEVs are better suited for this purpose.

Now that you have opted to receive an instant offer from our trusted professional buyer, you may be asked to send photos of your car so they can give you an accurate valuation. Our handy guide will help you get the photos you need. The photos should be good quality & capture the condition of the car by giving a 360° view of the outside. The key angles required are: Front left corner Front right corner Back left corner Back right corner Front on Back of car Side profiles Steering wheel & odometer Mistakes - Some tips to avoid common mistakes when taking photos: Having multiple cars in photos Zooming in too far - give a full view of the car Bad quality / bad light Not cleaning the car Take photos in landscape not portrait

Selling your car can be a daunting process so we have created this handy guide to bring you through the process. When thinking about selling your car, you first need to figure out what you car is worth and where you are going to advertise it. Deciding to Sell What is my car worth? Use classified websites to work out what value you can get. If trading-in to a dealership, expect the trade-in price to be 15-25% below the sale price. Where can I advertise it? You can advertise your car in a number of places, including classifieds sites like DoneDeal & Adverts, social media & in some print publications. Choosing the right place to sell will impact the speed & value of your sale. Private sale or dealer sale - You can sell directly to private sellers via classifieds site or, if you are buying a new or used car from a dealership, you may be able to trade your existing car in against your new purchase. A new way to sell is directly to a trusted dealer via DoneDeal's Instant Offer feature. You can find out more about Instant Offer here. Prepping for Sale Before you advertise your car, there are a number of steps you need to take to maximise your sale price and help you sell faster. Documents Gather all documents relating to the vehicle. NCT Doc Log book - The documentation certifying ownership of a vehicle will be in the form of a Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) or Vehicle Licensing Certificate (VLC). These documents are also commonly known as the "Logbook". Which document your vehicle will have depends on when the last change of ownership was completed or the age of the vehicle. The Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) is the newer document and the Vehicle Licensing Certificate (VLC) is the older form of this ownership document. Service History Preparing Your Car Clean outside of car Clean inside of car Invest in professional valet Wipe under bonnet with damp cloth Replace any blown bulbs Replace floor mats if worn Empty storage areas (glove box, boot, under seats) Preparing Your Ad Now that your car is ready to be photographed, you can starting creating your ad. Follow our guide below to help you through the process. Photos Ensure you have a number of photos showing all angles of the car so the buyer can make an informed decision on whether to contact you. We would recommend the following images: Front quarter left Front quarter right Back quarter left Back quarter right Wheel / Alloys Internal full dash Drive view Internal from centre Passenger looking at driver dash View in from open front door View in from open back door Front Back Side profiles Front interior Rear interior Engine Odometer NCT cert Mistakes - Some tips to avoid common mistakes when taking photos which may make your ad appear unprofessional or untrustworthy Multiple cars in photos Zooming in too far - give a full view of the car Bad quality / bad light Not cleaning the car Take photos in landscape not portrait Video You can enhance your ad by including a video of your car, both the inside and outside. Some rules to follow when creating your video: Do a full 360 tour of the outside of the car Show the inside - start at the driver's door and show the passenger side & back seat Open the boot and show the storage and spare wheel Compress the file before uploading Information to Include in Your Ad Include as much information as possible in your ad and answer as many potential questions that buyers could have so you only get really keen buyers contacting you. Essential to include: Registration number Year Mileage Service history Colour Number of owners Features / specifications Contact information - ensure you include your preferred contact method & time so you can manage buyer expectations and replies Greenlight Greenlight your vehicle by inputting the Vehicle Licence Certificate (VLC) number from your vehicle logbook. This will help you to sell your car. For a quick and hassle free car sale, make sure your care has the Greenlight tick. Greenlight, our trust initiative, means as a seller you can opt to provide your logbook reference number to us when listing your ad. This means we can put a green tick next to your ad, indicating that we have checked your Vehicle License Certificate against the car registration number to verify your ad. Potential buyers have a greater sense of trust in verified ads which results in more enquiries for the vehicle you are selling. Find out more here Happy Selling! Now that you have completed the steps above, you're ready to sell your car, best of luck!

The 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars put pressure on buyers to switch to electric cars. While electric vehicles have existed in the motoring world for the past century, the recent dramatic increase in sales is due to the need for cleaner and greener vehicles. Car manufacturers have also come up with affordable and more practical electric vehicles. For instance, EVs now offer longer ranges and combine an exciting driving experience with great styling. Ireland's charging infrastructure has also improved, providing better technology for fast charging. This electric car guide will help you understand the features and types of EVs. History and early development of electric cars Many people associate electric vehicles with the modern technological world, but electrically powered cars have been around since 1837. Before the 1930s, electric vehicles were a popular option among road users, with 28% of drivers using EVs. The introduction of internal combustion engines allowed car manufacturers to slash their prices, increasing their popularity. With the growing threat of climate change, electric car manufacturers built a new EV generation in 1996. The Toyota Prius hybrid model gained popularity as the world became pollutant conscious. Nowadays, the choice of electric vehicles is vast, and buyers can choose from plug-in hybrids and pure electric models. Guide to electric car options Electric vehicles are available as plug-in hybrids (PHEV) or battery electric vehicles. Battery EVs are purely electric and have no combustion engine. They use an onboard battery, which powers the electric motor. You need to charge the car from an external electric supply. Nowadays, you can find pure-electric vehicles with impressive charging ranges. The emergence of multiple charging spots makes electric vehicles more convenient. Plug-in hybrid EVs have a small internal combustion engine and an electric powertrain. That means you can drive the car in full-electric mode, use combustion fuel or combine both. The presence of a battery improves the efficiency of the vehicles, and you can charge it from an external electricity supply. Range-extended EVs are plug-in hybrids with a unique configuration. They can use electric charge for an extended range like battery-powered electric cars, but they have a small internal combustion engine that acts as an onboard generator. The combustion engine can recharge the battery if you run out of charge on the road. However, unlike PHEVs, which allow the combustion engine to drive the wheels directly, you cannot use the combustion engine in range-extended cars to drive. Range-extended cars usually offer a longer electric range than PHEVs, and the conventional engine only serves as a backup. Electric car features Electric vehicles are known for their comfortability and positive impact on the environment. How are they different from conventional combustion engine cars? What features should you expect from combustion engine cars? Hassle-free driving Since an electric vehicle doesn't have a gearbox, exhaust pipe or clutch, you can enjoy smoother rides than a conventional gas-based vehicle. It also offers quieter rides due to minimal engine vibrations, and you don't have to worry about noise since the car has no gears to shift. The car battery is often situated at the bottom of the car, lowering the suspension and gravity to make the car comfortable to drive. Large and stylish interior spaces Internal combustion engines are large and take up a lot of interior space. However, EVs use electric motors that are small and compact. This design gives car manufacturers plenty of room to create a premium interior. Most electric vehicles have sufficient space for seats with better legroom. The luggage compartments are also roomy, and you can open up additional storage space. The improved technology in electric vehicles has also introduced features like infotainment systems. Multiple charge feature An electric car can use rapid, fast and trickle charging options. Rapid charging allows the vehicle to charge up to 80% in thirty minutes, while fast charging requires three to eight hours. If you want the car to function in optimal condition, you need to charge it overnight. Trickle charging usually requires charging the vehicle for over 12 hours. Onboard chargers in the EVs convert AC to DC that can power the traction battery. You can also use the onboard charger to check battery attributes, like the voltage and current. Unique regenerative braking Regenerative braking is a distinguishing feature of electric vehicles. It allows cars to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy during braking. The electrical energy is stored in the battery and increases the driving range of electric vehicles. Sometimes, regenerative braking improves the driving range by 10%. EV thermal system One of the major problems combustion engines face is overheating. You don't have to fret about overheating in the motor and power electronics. Car manufacturers have resolved the overheating headaches in electric vehicles by installing thermal systems. The feature monitors and maintains an optimal operating temperature range in EV components. High-resolution intuitive displays Electric cars come with high-resolution OLED displays to check the charging capacity and available range. When you choose a destination in the satellite navigation system, the display informs you if the current charge range will take you to the destination. Some displays also highlight the charging spots along the route. You can use it to monitor the power consumed by the accessories in the EV and find ways to maximise the remaining car range or conserve battery energy. How does it feel driving an electric car? Electric cars don't have gears, making them easy to drive. When you get in the car, press the start button, choose the gear selector, and go. Unlike a conventional automatic that requires driving the vehicle, and the transmission shifts through gears, EVs don't have distinct gears. The electric motor rotates in one direction to move forward and the opposite direction to go backwards. Besides, the engine's rotational force or torque is available instantly. You have to switch gears in diesel or petrol-powered cars to get the car in a peak power band before moving. Since electric car motor power is available on tap, it makes it easy to speed up, slow down and drive. The responsiveness of electric motors makes even the most basic models of electric cars fun to drive. Electric car batteries further improve the driving dynamics. While it adds extra weight to the vehicles, it also ensures the centre of gravity is low since it is placed between the axles. It provides a comfortable and sporty driving experience, making your drive sure-footed and fun. You can ghost along quietly in an electric car due to the lack of pistons and noisy combustion engines. You also won't feel engine vibrations as you drive. The quietness can seem unusual at first, but it makes your drives peaceful and enjoyable. Positive environmental impact of electric vehicles Air pollution remains a major concern for driving internal combustion engines. With WHO reporting close to seven million deaths associated with outdoor air pollution, governments are looking for ways to reduce pollution. Nitrous oxide emitted by fuel engines is directly linked to respiratory issues. Hence, reducing diesel and petrol-powered cars minimises nitrous gas pumped into the atmosphere. Electric vehicles have zero emissions of pollutants. Lower pollution levels promote green initiatives that aim to reduce climate change. Electricity is renewable energy, which means driving an EV expends limited fossil fuels. Most manufacturers also use eco-friendly materials when building electric cars to improve their sustainability. A popular electric vehicle made with eco-friendly materials is the Nissan Leaf. You can also recycle electric vehicle batteries and engines, which improves environmental sustainability. Conclusion on electric cars If you want to join the green club, this electric car guide will help you understand the basics of EVs and the features to expect. When you know the features and various types of electric vehicles, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Government grants and road taxes improve your cost savings and reward you for being kinder to the planet. The kinds of journeys you make can also help you decide the favourable car range and type of EV to buy. For instance, if you make long journeys, you need a long-range battery-electric vehicle or PHEV.

What vehicles do Autoguru make instant offers on? We make offers on vehicles under 10 years of age and with less than 200,000km How does the process work? Our goal is to make selling your car as easy as possible. If you opt to receive an offer from our trusted buying partner when listing your vehicle, you should receive an offer within 2 hours (during business hours). This offer is valid for 7 days. If you are happy with the offer, simply reply to the message to accept, or ask further questions if you have any. After this, Autoguru will place a deposit to secure your vehicle & one of Autoguru’s purchasing team will phone you to confirm some vehicle details, schedule an inspection & collection appointment at a time that is convenient for you & to discuss payment terms. This deposit is held by DoneDeal until the transaction is complete. What happens after I accept an offer? After you accept your offer, Autoguru will place a deposit to secure your vehicle. Next, one of Autoguru’s purchasing team will phone you to confirm some vehicle details, schedule an inspection & collection appointment at a time that is convenient for you & to discuss payment terms. This deposit is held by DoneDeal until the transaction is complete. During the appointment, an Autoguru technician will inspect your vehicle to ensure it is as described and without major mechanical or cosmetic defects. Once satisfied, instant payment will be made, transfer of ownership will occur & the technician will take the vehicle away. We aim to collect all vehicles within 3 business days after the offer has been accepted. How long is the offer valid for? Offers are valid for 7 days. How quickly can I sell my car? You can expect an offer for your vehicle within 2 hours (during business hours). Once you accept the offer, Autoguru aim to collect your vehicle within 3 working days. How is my offer calculated? Your offer is calculated based on the trade value of your vehicle. This calculation takes the most recent market data into consideration - retail, trade & auction data are all combined with a professional assessment of your vehicle to ensure an accurate & fair offer. Why is the offer much lower than what I see similar cars advertised for? Your offer may be lower than what you see similar cars advertised for. This difference is to allow for the dealership’s margin. When selling a used vehicle, dealers must allow for a number of expenses before your vehicle can be retail ready on their forecourt. These can include: Overheads - The dealer’s physical premises, rates, light, heat & insurance Staff - Salespeople, mechanics, valeters & more Servicing, valeting & any repairs your vehicle may need NCT costs & any associated repairs Marketing & listing fees Warranty - a dealer will have to stand over your vehicle for a set period of time. VAT & taxes must be paid & accounted for when selling a used vehicle. Are offers conditional? Yes, our offers are made subject to inspection by an Autoguru technician. We make our offers based on the pictures and details provided in your DoneDeal listing. If undeclared issues are found, your offer may be withdrawn or recalculated. How is payment made? Payment is made instantly by bank transfer once the Autoguru technician is satisfied. Alternative methods may be available upon request. What payment options are available? Bank Transfer is our preferred method of payment. However, in a limited number of circumstances, we may be able to offer cheque, bank draft or cash. Are there any fees associated with selling my vehicle to Autoguru? No, there are no fees. The offer you accept is the amount you will receive. What do I need to do to prepare for my inspection/collection appointment? All you have to do is ensure that both you and your vehicle are at the agreed location at the agreed time. You will also need a valid form of I.D. and the vehicle’s log book. And remember to remove any personal belongings from the vehicle, including your insurance disc. Where does the inspection/collection appointment happen? This can be done anywhere that is convenient for you. Typically we find that at home or at work are the most common locations. How long is the inspection/collection appointment? The inspection/collection process takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. What happens during the inspection/collection appointment? Once the Autoguru technician arrives, they will begin the inspection process. Your vehicle will be assessed mechanically, structurally & cosmetically. The technician will also take your vehicle on a 5km fully insured test drive. If the inspection is successful, your I.D. and the vehicle documents will be verified. Approval will then be sent to Autoguru’s purchasing team who will initiate payment, What happens to my log book / How is ownership transferred? Ownership is transferred electronically as soon as the Autoguru technician collects your vehicle. The technician will also take possession of your log book & provide you with a RF105 form. What happens to my car after it’s collected? Your vehicle will be transferred to a used car dealer who will prepare it for resale. Will I have to haggle when you come to see the car? No, we aim to make the selling experience as straightforward as possible. The offer you accept is what you receive, provided your vehicle is as described and free from any major mechanical or cosmetic defects. If an issue is identified by an Autoguru technician that was not declared, Autoguru’s purchasing team will be notified and your offer will be recalculated accordingly. Can you pay off my finance / Can I sell a car with finance outstanding? Yes, just let us know that you have finance outstanding when you accept your offer. We can pay the finance company directly and the remaining balance to you. Can I sell a car with no NCT? Yes, we will purchase your vehicle without a valid NCT. This will be accounted for when your offer is calculated. Can I sell a car with no Road Tax? Yes, we can purchase and transport vehicles without valid Road Tax. Can I sell a vehicle registered in the UK? No, unfortunately we only make offers for vehicles registered in the Republic of Ireland Can I sell a vehicle that’s written off or has a mileage discrepancy? Unfortunately not, Autoguru does not purchase vehicles that are written off, categorised or have a mileage discrepancy. I’m a dealer/trader, can I sell my vehicle to Autoguru? Unfortunately not. We are only making offers on vehicles from private sellers.

SUVs have gained a lot of popularity in recent years, and they have become the choice of transport for many people. Sports utility vehicles generally look better than their hatchback or saloon equivalents, and thanks to four-wheel drive, they often offer advantages like extra space, height and more traction. Many drivers who have traditionally opted for sedans and hatchbacks are now looking toward SUVs, which is why the SUV market has been steadily expanding. If you are on the lookout for a sport utility vehicle, here is a list of the best looking SUVs currently available on the market. Volvo XC40 Skoda Kodiaq BMW X3 Skoda Karoq Audi Q5 Volkswagen Tiguan Ford Kuga Peugeot 3008 Nissan Qashqai Hyundai Tucson Volvo XC40 The Volvo XC40 SUV comes with a completely restyled look that does not remind drivers of Volvo’s usual safety over style approach. In fact, the XC40 sport utility vehicle manages to smoothly combine stunning good looks with outstanding safety features. The XC40 is available in several different incarnations, and the range even includes the electric XC40 Recharge plug-in hybrid sport utility vehicle. All in all, the XC40 SUV is one of the best looking SUVs that you can buy today. Skoda Kodiaq The Skoda Kodiaq is one of the most practical and best looking SUVs available today. This large sport utility vehicle offers a lot of versatility and can be had in a five- or seven-seat version, making it a suitable SUV for larger families and their luggage. The big Skoda has a more traditional SUV look that will appeal to people who appreciate the bold dimensions that a larger sport utility vehicle has to offer. Skoda has managed to pack all the tech and style that a large family could possibly need into the Kodiaq, which makes it one of the market's best looking SUVs today. BMW X3 No list of the best looking sport utility vehicles would be complete without the BMW X3. The latest BMW compact SUV generation is good looking and fun to drive. Although the car is jam-packed with the latest and greatest tech, it still feels very much like a driver's car, and this is what makes the BMW X3 a truly special sport utility vehicle. The BMW X3 is well-designed both in aesthetic and ergonomic terms, so sitting behind the wheel of an X3 SUV for long distances is a pleasure. Skoda Karoq Take one look at the Karoq, and it is clear that it takes a few design cues from its bigger brother, the Kodiaq. That said, the Karoq SUV is a bit smaller and only available with a five-seat configuration. The design is a bit more traditional and less outgoing than some other competitors on this list, but that doesn't change the fact that the Karoq sport utility vehicle looks great and performs well in almost any situation. It simply ticks all the important boxes. The Skoda Karoq follows a proven recipe of offering practical features and reliable performance, which has made the SUV a favourite amongst potential buyers. Audi Q5 Bold design, striking good looks, and the latest in driver assistance systems are what make the Audi Q5 one of the best looking SUVs on the market. The mid-size sport utility vehicle from Audi has always been a go-to choice for drivers that want to combine great design with the premium build quality. The cabin of the Q5 SUV feels familiar, and premium materials can be seen throughout the vehicle's interior. The Audi Q5 is a great looking sport utility vehicle from the outside and the inside, and people will surely notice its stunning design. In addition to this, the Audi Q5 SUV comes with the legendary German build quality and excellent performance. Volkswagen Tiguan When it comes to the best looking SUVs, the Volkswagen Tiguan doesn't disappoint. The Tiguan is not just big on looks — it is also big on space and can easily transport five adults and their luggage. The Tiguan SUV is outfitted with the Volkswagen Group's latest infotainment system and offers intuitive functions, such as wireless smartphone charging and a premium audio system. The Tiguan will turn heads wherever you drive it. The current VW Tiguan generation can easily compare to competitors, such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Volvo XC40. As such, it is not a budget SUV but rather a premium sport utility vehicle. Ford Kuga The Ford Kuga SUV expertly combines good looks with a great price to give drivers a vehicle that ticks all the boxes. The Kuga has a long list of standard equipment that includes all the modern conveniences, including automatic climate control, LED lighting, a heads-up display and a premium audio system. The Ford Kuga SUV is available in several different specification levels, but even the standard equipment line is well appointed and offers excellent value for money. The Ford Kuga offers a PHEV SUV version for those interested in making the switch to a hybrid sport utility vehicle. Peugeot 3008 The Peugeot 3008 combines French panache and style with an intelligent dashboard packed with the latest in electronic gadgets and aids. The SUV is comfortably capable of carrying five adult passengers and has more than enough room for luggage and the weekly grocery shop in the boot. The Peugeot 3008 sport utility vehicle is brimming with electronics and offers every imaginable convenience item, either as a standard or an optional extra. Nappa leather or Alcantara-trimmed seats are also available, and the seats are cushy and comfortable during long journeys. Nissan Qashqai Nissan has always had a reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality vehicles, and this tradition continues with the latest incarnation of the ever-popular Qashqai SUV. The Qashqai sport utility vehicle has received a style update that cements its position among the best looking sport utility vehicles currently available on the market. The good looks are combined with a very practical and well-equipped interior that transports passengers in comfort. The Nissan Qashqai SUV is equipped with Nissan's latest-generation infotainment system, which is easy to operate and user-friendly. The Qashqai is well-priced and offers many of the features that you can find in premium SUVs available at lower price points. Hyundai Tucson The Hyundai Tucson is a striking sport utility vehicle that turns heads everywhere it goes. With the Tucson SUV, Hyundai has moved away from a conventional SUV design and has created a sport utility vehicle with a truly unique look. These striking looks place the stylish Tucson firmly among the best looking SUVs. The sport utility vehicle comes with a range of frugal petrol, diesel and hybrid engines that offer both economy and grunt. The interior is well-appointed and offers a roomy interior that can comfortably carry five passengers and their luggage for long-distance journeys. The Hyundai Tucson offers Hyundai's standard five-year warranty, making the SUV an even more interesting option. Benefits of buying the best looking SUVs The best looking SUVs offer several benefits, such as a higher driving position, four-wheel drive, spacious interiors and more luggage carrying capacity. Some advantages of the best looking sport utility vehicles include: Larger footprint: SUVs are generally larger than sedans and hatchbacks, and this means that they have more space, but it also gives drivers an added sense of security. The higher driving position that a sport utility vehicle provides also means that the driver has a better view of the road ahead, contributing to their safety. Frugal: modern SUVs are much more frugal than earlier generations, and hybrid or fully electric models are widely available. The result is that sport utility vehicles consume less fuel and emit fewer greenhouse gasses. Although SUVs are not nearly as fuel-efficient as most smaller cars, they strike an excellent balance between efficiency and people carrying capabilities. Practicality: many sport utility vehicles offer a host of practical features that make them multi-purpose vehicles. These include fold-down rear seats that can be lowered to create a flat luggage area for transporting large items, such as furniture. In addition, SUV interiors also offer other practical benefits, like built-in USB outlets for mobile charging and connecting media devices. Sport utility vehicles generally also offer many optional OEM extras to make them even more practical and comfortable. Conclusion SUVs sales have already surpassed that of other vehicles, such as small cars, luxury saloons and hatchbacks, and this trend is set to continue well into the future. The higher driving position of an SUV gives drivers a greater feeling of security and safety, especially when conveying precious cargo, especially family members. In general, sport utility vehicles are also better looking than their sedan and hatchback counterparts, which further contributes to making them an attractive option for potential vehicle buyers.

Small cars make a lot of sense for many people. They are easier to drive in congested urban areas, and they can be parked in areas where larger vehicles simply won’t fit. With the ever-increasing cost of fuel, small cars are also a good solution for those who want to save some money on their monthly fuel bill. Small cars are an excellent mobility solution for people who do not need too much cargo and passenger space. Small cars were once designed to only provide the basic features people need for city commuting, but that has since changed. Small cars now offer most of the convenience and luxury features that you can find in larger vehicles. The best small cars offer an excellent combination of practicality, style and economy. If you fancy driving a small car, here are the 10 of the best small cars on the market: Volkswagen Polo Peugeot 208 Seat Ibiza Ford Fiesta Dacia Sandero Audi A1 Sportback Mini 5-door Hatch Hyundai i10 Renault Clio Toyota Yaris Hybrid Volkswagen Polo The Volkswagen Polo is constantly ranked amongst the world’s favourite small cars, with good reason. The Polo is good at everything that a small car should be good at. It offers generous levels of comfort, combined with the latest infotainment technology and creature comforts that make driving the Polo a pleasure. The interior is up to date and reflects the latest trends in car design, and the car offers several engine options that prioritise fuel efficiency. In addition to all of these outstanding features, the Polo also boasts a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Peugeot 208 As is typical of most French cars, the Peugeot 208 doesn’t skimp on style. This elegant small car has one of the most eye-catching interiors on the market. It offers a lot of practicality combined with technologically advanced features, such as an infotainment system with built-in navigation and mobile phone connectivity. The nippy Peugeot comes with a variety of internal combustion engines that are frugal, torquey and ideal for city driving. In addition to the range of ICE engines, the Peugeot 208 is also available as a purely electric vehicle that offers enough range for the average city driver’s daily commute. Seat Ibiza The Seat Ibiza is one of the best small cars on this list. It offers oodles of driving fun combined with style and elegance. Although the Ibiza has not been updated recently, the car still looks fresh, boasting a design that appeals to many drivers. The punchy Ibiza offers potential buyers a wide range of petrol engines, and all of the options on the list offer more than enough power to get through the daily traffic grind. The Ibiza offers all of the safety and comfort features that can be expected from a modern small car, and there is an impressive list of optional extras to choose from. When it comes to interior space and luggage room, the Seat offers more than enough room for four adults and their luggage. Overall, the Ibiza Seat is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a small car to get around town without spending a fortune on fuel. Ford Fiesta The Ford Fiesta has been around for a long time in many different incarnations, and it has always been a firm favourite in the small car class. The nippy Fiesta is fun to drive and offers a wide range of torquey engine choices. All the engines in the line-up offer enough power for the average city driver’s needs, and the fuel economy does not suffer from this. The Ford Fiesta offers one of the most fuel-efficient ranges seen in small cars available today. The small Ford is equipped with the latest features and offers all the convenience you could want or need. The classic design and well-laid-out interior make the Fiesta a serious contender as one of the best small cars today. Dacia Sandero The Dacia Sandero offers excellent value for money, and it is one of the least expensive small cars on sale today. The Sandero doesn’t offer many frills, but it does feature a stylish, no-nonsense interior with all the basics you need for everyday city driving. The small car offers enough space for five adults and their luggage, making it easy to use the Sandero for longer journeys. Considering the price and its features, the Sandero is one of the best small cars on the market. Audi A1 Sportback Just because the Audi A1 is a small car, it doesn’t mean it offers less luxury or style than any of Audi’s larger models. The A1 Sportback is an ideal small car for those who enjoy driving a premium car without worrying about the space constraints associated with city life. The car’s infotainment system is equipped with the latest technology, and there is an impressive list of optional extras to choose from. The Audi’s premium looks and design place it in the higher price range. Mini 5-door Hatchback The Mini is one of the most legendary small cars of all time, and the latest incarnation builds on the well-established success of its predecessors. The Mini combines tradition with technology, offering a classic interior design that comes fully equipped with the latest technological features. The Mini has comfortable seats and offers more than enough space for four adults with luggage to travel in comfort. A good selection of frugal petrol and diesel engines offer enough power to cut through congested city traffic, but the Mini can also take on longer journeys without a problem. Hyundai i10 The Hyundai i10 is another example of an excellently designed small car that offers more than just value for money. The small hatchback offers generous interior space despite its small stature, and it comes with Hyundai’s industry-leading five-year guarantee as standard. The i10 has a deceptively large boot that can easily swallow groceries, sports bags and other items with ease. The interior is covered in hard plastics in some areas, but the comfortable seats and excellent headroom make up for this. Small cars are often a bit cramped for taller drivers, but even the tallest drivers will have more than enough headroom in the Hyundai i10. The i10 prioritises safety and offers several standard gadgets, such as ABS, ESP, and passenger and driver airbags. Although the i10’s one-litre engine may sound small, the car has more than enough power for most city drivers. Renault Clio The Renault Clio offers French panache in a compact footprint, making it one of the best small cars available on the market today. The small car has an impressive list of standard equipment, and all the most important features are accounted for. The car’s interior is easy on the eye and comes equipped with several practical storage spaces for small items. In addition to this, the small Renault is available with a good selection of frugal engines, and an electric model is also available. The Clio has been a firm favourite in the small car segment for many years due to its simple recipe of combining stylish design with economical driving and an excellent price point. All in all, the Clio is an excellent choice for any driver looking for a small, reliable city car that can tackle longer journeys now and again. Toyota Yaris Hybrid The Yaris Hybrid is an excellent option for those who appreciate a practical city car that offers excellent fuel economy. The Yaris performs well on both the open road and within the city, so the small car can also be used for trips outside of urban areas. The practical, stylish interior offers drivers and passengers access to convenience features and comes with an excellent infotainment system as standard. In addition, the car offers legendary Toyota reliability and excellent resell value. Benefits of buying the best small cars Small cars offer many benefits, especially for those who live and work in congested urban areas. Some of the main benefits of buying a small car include: Easy to park: small cars are generally much easier to park in a city environment, making them ideal for areas where parking spaces are small and limited. In addition, small cars can navigate narrow city streets with greater ease. Lower fuel costs: small cars generally have smaller engines, which are more frugal to drive than their larger counterparts. Less expensive: smaller cars are generally less expensive than larger models, making them more accessible. Conclusion The cars mentioned above are some of the best small cars currently available. They all offer excellent value for money combined with style and practicality. While most cars on the list are mainly intended for driving in city environments, they can all tackle longer distances with ease and provide reasonable comfort for passengers.