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SUVs have taken over the car world to become one of the most popular types of vehicles sold worldwide. Sport utility vehicle sales far outnumber sedans and hatchbacks, and this trend is likely to continue well into the future. However, soaring SUV sales are not the only automotive tred, as electric vehicles are also gaining popularity. Many countries have even begun adopting legislation to promote the sales of electric vehicles further. Thanks to these two trends, it only makes sense that electric SUVs would be a popular choice for future car purchases, and automakers have already begun to produce exciting electric sport utility vehicles. Whether you are looking for a sporty SUV or a people mover, you can find one of the best electric SUVs, which includes the following models: Audi e-Tron Hyundai Kona Electric Jaguar i-Pace Kia e-Niro MG ZS EV Mercedes-Benz EQC Tesla Model X Volvo XC40 Recharge Skoda Enyaq Ford Mustang Mach-E Audi e-Tron The e-Tron is Audi's first fully electric vehicle and has been designed with electric propulsion in mind from the ground up. The e-Tron SUV has all the typical characteristics that Audi drivers have come to expect from the brand, including a well-appointed interior, comfortable seats and high-quality materials. The Audi e-Tron sport utility vehicle has a claimed range of 248 miles and needs just 5.7 seconds to reach 100 km/h. Although the Audi e-Tron offers a fully rounded electric SUV package, it is rather expensive. However, the price tag is justified by the excellent design and the advanced technology that the car offers. Hyundai Kona Electric The Hyundai Kona is aimed at drivers who are looking for an affordable and practical electric SUV. The Kona comes in two different variants, offering a 39 kWh and 64 kWh battery pack, respectively. The 64 kWh Kona has a claimed range of 279 miles, which is more than respectable for an affordable E-SUV. The Kona's design reminds of Hyundai's existing ICE-powered SUVs, and the car doesn't try to stand out from the crowd. Despite this, it offers an excellently appointed interior with all the creature comforts you could possibly want. Jaguar i-Pace The Jaguar i-Pace SUV lives up to the iconic brand's design philosophy in every imaginable way. The i-Pace is a fast and lively sport utility vehicle that sits at the forefront of electric vehicle technology. The Jaguar EV is powered by twin motors and has a peak power output of 395 bhp. In typical SUV fashion, the Jaguar i-Pace has an all-wheel-drive motor, which gives it enough traction to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. There is no doubt that the Jaguar i-Pace is a performance-oriented SUV, but it still offers more than enough practicality for everyday use. Kia e-Niro The Kia e-Niro is a perfectly packaged electric SUV that ticks all the boxes. The e-Niro is Kia's answer to the everyday all-purpose electric sport utility vehicle, and practicality is present almost everywhere you look. The claimed range of 282 miles is more than enough to cover longer journeys. The Kia e-Niro is also competitively priced, which makes it an accessible option for more motorists. In addition to the practicality and price advantages that the e-Niro offers, it also comes with an industry-leading 7-year guarantee that should ensure that motorists enjoy worry-free motoring. All in all, the e-Niro is an excellent option, making it one of the best electric SUVs available in the market today. MG ZS EV The ZS EV is MG's take on an affordable and practical electric SUV that meets the needs of most modern commuters. To this end, the ZS EV boasts all the standard features that make SUVs a popular choice, including a raised driving position, a larger footprint, a spacious interior and an advanced infotainment system. The MG ZS EV has a claimed range of 163 miles and can be recharged using a fast charger when needed. The MG is a good all-rounder SUV that can be used on a daily basis for school and grocery runs, as well as for longer trips. The MG sport utility vehicle is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to combine the benefits of electric mobility with the practicality of a mid-sized SUV. Mercedes-Benz EQC The EQC is the first all-electric vehicle produced by Mercedes-Benz, and it is an incredibly capable SUV. The car is powered by twin motors that can propel the big Benz to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds. However, the best thing about the car is that it doesn't differ from standard ICE-powered Mercedes-Benz SUVs in terms of practicality, size and capability. The car has a polished interior that will be familiar to Mercedes-Benz owners, and all the technological bells and whistles are accounted for. The driver can interact with the vehicle via large touch screens, which gives the vehicle's interior a distinctly modern look and feel. The EQC sport utility vehicle is unquestionably a good option for drivers who want to make the switch to electric mobility without losing the style and luxury they've become accustomed to. Tesla Model X The Tesla Model X is a unique electric SUV that redefines what exactly an SUV is. The car is a part crossover, part MPV and part sport utility vehicle. It boasts exciting features, such as gullwing doors that can be opened in the tightest parking spaces, high-definition touchscreens and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. The Model X is available in dual- and single-motor versions, and it offers sufficient space for up to seven occupants. The Tesla Model X is definitely the best electric SUV for those that want to stand out from the crowd. However, standing out from the crowd comes at a premium, and the Tesla Model X is undoubtedly firmly seated among the more expensive electric sport utility vehicles on the market. Volvo XC40 Recharge The Volvo XC40 Recharge is an all-around impressive sport utility vehicle that offers refinement, elegance and style combined with a good dose of real-world practicality. Although the XC40 EV is a small electric SUV, it is an excellent option for city dwellers that live in areas where space is at a premium. The Volvo XC40 Recharge offers a decent range, and it is well equipped. The modern passenger compartment reflects the car's forward-thinking design and incorporates features like a Google-based infotainment system. If you are looking for a small electric sport utility vehicle, the Volvo XC40 recharge is an excellent option. Skoda Enyaq The Enyaq by Skoda is a futuristic-looking electric SUV that doesn't stray too far from the brand's success recipe of practicality and reliability. The Enyaq can travel significant distances between charges, and its onboard range calculator is quite accurate, which is excellent news for those that suffer from range anxiety. The Skoda Enyaq offers more luxury than similarly priced electric SUVs and comes with a long list of standard equipment that will endear it to many E-SUV enthusiasts. The Skoda Enyaq has a strong road presence that makes it stand out from the other cars on the road, and the car has a well-laid-out interior. Ford Mustang Mach-E The Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of the best electric SUVs on the market, and the car offers stunning good looks combined with the latest technology and a well-appointed cabin. The Mach-E is sure to turn heads wherever it is driven, and it is the best electric sport utility vehicle for those that want to be noticed. The Mach-E is a dynamic SUV that is fun to drive but still offers a decent range and everyday practicality. All in all, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is a great option for tech lovers who want to drive an exciting and unique electric SUV. Benefits of buying the best electric SUV Electric sport utility vehicles offer many benefits, including reduced maintenance costs, less harmful emissions and more economic driving. Some of the main benefits of buying the best electric SUV include: Environmentally friendly: driving an electric SUV is much more environmentally friendly than driving a traditional internal combustion vehicle. Electric sport utility vehicles have zero greenhouse emissions and are carbon neutral, depending on the source of electricity used to recharge them. Fun to drive: electric SUVs can usually accelerate quickly and smoothly, which makes them a lot of fun to drive. That is especially true for the sportier vehicle models, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model X. Less maintenance: electric SUVs do not require as much maintenance as their ICE-powered counterparts, leading to a lower total cost of ownership. Conclusion Electric sport utility vehicles are a big part of the future of cars, and they are quickly gaining popularity amongst drivers. Electric SUVs are not only better for the environment, but they are also less expensive to own than ICE-powered vehicles, especially when you consider the reduced maintenance costs of owning an electric vehicle.

To understand what a vintage convertible car is, we must first ask, what is a convertible? Simply put, a convertible car is a car that features a roof that can be retracted partially or entirely. In modern convertibles, the procedure of retracting the roof is usually electric and works via the push of a button. However, in many older convertibles, the roof is retracted manually, and in some cases, it can even be completely removed. Convertibles have been around for a very long time, and some of the older models can date back to the 1930s. Peugeot was the first large automaker to introduce a convertible with a folding metal roof that was fully automated. The 1935 Peugeot 402 Eclipse predated most other powered retractable hardtops by at least 20 years. When other car makers finally came around to introducing the same convertible hardtops, they did so mostly for luxurious cars. Luxury cars were generally out of the reach of the average car buyer at the time. But this changed over time, and convertibles became more affordable, making it so that a greater number of car buyers could access them. In general, convertibles were more popular in continental Europe than in other parts of the world. The popularity of convertibles peaked after the second world war when their popularity spread to America. The American craze for convertibles was fuelled by returning soldiers who had seen the elegance of European convertibles and wanted to be able to drive similar cars. Over the years, several important convertible models were launched. Today, some of these models are highly sought after as collector's items. What makes a convertible model a vintage convertible car? Although there is no single consensus amongst experts and car lovers regarding what specifically makes a car a vintage model, it is generally required that the vehicle was manufactured between 1919 and 1930. Most vintage cars, including convertible vintage models, must be fully restored and in running order. However, these are just general guidelines. It is also important to consider that most owners have a deep-rooted emotional connection with their vintage convertible cars. This emotional aspect means that what one person considers vintage might not be to another. For this reason, it is quite difficult to judge exactly when a car is vintage. What are some of the most iconic vintage convertible cars? Some of the best vintage convertible cars that have been produced include: Morgan Plus 4 (1950 – 1969): The Morgan Plus 4 was originally launched in 1950, and production ran until 1969. The car has all the classic looks of the 1950s, and some of the components are fashioned in wood. The Morgan Plus Four is equipped with a classic retractable fabric roof that can also be completely removed when the weather allows. Many vintage examples of the Morgan Plus 4 are collector items, and they can be quite expensive. Incidentally, the Morgan Plus 4 was so successful that the company even launched a modern version of the car. Austin-Healey Sprite Mark 1 (1958 – 1961): The Sprite Mark 1 was one of the earliest mass-produced and accessible sports cars on the market. The small sports car boasted many firsts, including no externally visible trunk for additional rigidity. The car also has a striking personality with a smiling front grille and Bugeye headlights. The Sprite Mark 1 has a retractable vinyl roof, which can be folded back for open-top motoring on pleasant days. Lotus Seven (1957 – 1972): The Lotus Seven is an interesting and unique vintage convertible car because of its dual personality. The car was built with motor racing in mind, but the designer, Colin Chapman, wanted the car to be able to be used every day as well. With this in mind, The Seven is built on a lightweight frame and offers no creature comforts or frills. What it offers is pure motoring pleasure and open-top driving that is second to none. The Lotus Seven is considered one of the most desirable vintage convertible cars to have ever existed. Alfa Romeo Spider Series 1 (1966 – 1969): The Alfa Romeo Spider is a special car by all accounts. Pininfarina designed it and boasted several previously unheard of technical achievements, such as a double overhead cam engine cast in aluminium. The car also had disc brakes on all four wheels and a precisely balanced chassis with very accurate steering. The Spider is truly vintage, and as a collectable item, it is sought after. As a result, prices for this car model can reach quite a high amount. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTS/4 NART Spyder (1967): What is today one of Ferrari's most iconic cars had a somewhat difficult start. In the beginning, Enzo Ferrari was against the creation of the car. Still, Pininfarina and Scaglietti eventually convinced him that the car had potential. This vintage convertible car by Ferrari is a highly sought-after collector's car today, and it is truly considered both a vintage and classic car. Jaguar E-Type Series 1 (1961 – 1967): Probably one of the most iconic vintage convertible cars of all time, the Jaguar E-Type was first unveiled at the 1961 Geneva Motor Show. The car was described as "the most beautiful car ever made" by Enzo Ferrari. Since then, the E-Type has been a sought-after collector's item. The car is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also offers high performance and dynamic driving. BMW 507 (1956 – 1959): As one of the rarest BMW collectable cars, the BMW 507 is a one-of-a-kind vintage convertible car. BMW only produced 252 units of the model, and the exceedingly high production costs almost led to the financial ruin of BMW. However, the 507 remains an exceptionally beautiful BMW model, and it is a rare collectable that steals the heart of whoever sets their eyes on it. Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda (1968 – 1971): The 280 SL Pagoda is one of the most attractive Mercedes-Benz 280 SL models ever produced, and the car still has a very loyal fanbase. The Pagoda was especially popular in the United States, where it was wholeheartedly embraced by open-top motoring fans. The 280 SL is a true motoring legend, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find examples that are not already in private collections. AC Cobra (1962 – 1967): The Cobra is one of the most legendary cars of all time. This vintage convertible car offers a signature Ford V8 engine combined with exceptionally good design. The British-American collaboration has endeared itself to many collectors, and it is very difficult to find an AC Cobra these days. In addition to being rare, the Cobra is also very expensive, and you can expect to shell out a wad of cash to park one of these splendid automobiles in your garage. Why are vintage convertible cars so popular? Different people buy vintage convertible cars for different reasons. For some people, it is a unique opportunity to step back to a period when driving wasn't just about getting from point a to point b but also enjoyment. Open-top motoring allows drivers to enjoy the journey instead of simply driving to reach a specific destination. For others, purchasing a vintage convertible car is about making an investment into something that is likely to gain value over time. However, purchasing a convertible car as an investment is generally reserved for those with large bank balances and can be a very expensive hobby to enter. In general, most people purchase a classic or vintage convertible car simply because they find the car attractive and enjoy owning a piece of history. Vintage convertible cars are varied, and there are many different models to choose from, so choosing one can be a challenge. When buying any vintage car, it is important to make sure that the car is mechanically sound and that there are no serious problems with the bodywork. Problems such as rust can be difficult to solve and often requires lots of time and effort to fix. However, if you fancy the idea of restoring a vintage convertible car, it might be a good project. Conclusion In short, vintage convertible cars are excellent driver's cars that offer pure driving pleasure. Few things come close to the enjoyment of the open road and open-top motoring on a sunny day. More and more people are discovering the benefits of owning a vintage convertible car. It must also be mentioned that most of these classic cars do not offer the same modern tech you would find in newer cars and SUVs. Vintage convertibles often offer the bare basics, and for this reason, they are popular with people who prefer motoring over driving.

Hard shoulders are often found on the motorways of Ireland. They provide a critical function in a particularly dangerous environment. These are the areas along the side of a motorway (and sometimes other roads), which are often marked by a solid white line and should not be driven in under normal circumstances. They are usually referred to as hard shoulders in this part of the world, but they may also simply be called "shoulders" or "breakdown lanes". The hard shoulder will always be on the left-hand side in Ireland as that is the side of the road that Irish road-users drive on. In countries where cars drive on the right-hand side of the road, the hard shoulder will be on the right side. Hard shoulders have many purposes that we will dive into in more detail below. The main reasons include providing a safe space for a broken-down vehicle to pull over into, providing a free lane for emergency vehicles and adding extra capacity to a motorway during peak traffic hours. The primary reason for a hard shoulder — as the fact that an alternate name for it is "breakdown lane" suggests — is to provide a place where broken-down cars can get out of the way of motorway traffic. Parking or driving on a hard shoulder is not permitted in normal circumstances. However, there are situations when it is allowed, such as when instructed to by a Garda Síochána or if there is an obstruction in the main lanes of the motorway. Though commonly associated with motorways, hard shoulders can also be found on other roads. In Ireland, a hard shoulder on non-motorways is demarcated by dashed yellow lines. The same rules apply to both a non-motorway hard shoulder and a hard shoulder on a motorway. Depending on the circumstances, hard shoulders can also be subject to changing usage. For example, some hard shoulders may become usable lanes during peak traffic hours, which will usually be signified by electronic signage. Why are hard shoulders necessary? Hard shoulders are necessary on roads where there is fast-moving traffic, and if a vehicle were to stop on the road, there would be a high chance of serious accidents. This typically means a motorway, but some non-motorway roads also have a hard shoulder. The basic idea is that a car breaking down or otherwise coming to a stop in the middle of such a road has a far higher chance of causing an accident since the traffic on these roads is moving much faster than on regular roads. Similarly, motorways and other fast-moving roads tend not to have any areas to pull over, such as side streets or parking zones. Indeed, motorways are often cut through rural land, and even if they weren't fenced in (as they tend to be), there would likely be nowhere for a car to pull over. Hard shoulders also serve as a route for emergency vehicles when the main lanes of the road or motorway are blocked. This is especially important in the case of accidents on the road itself since accidents on these kinds of roads tend to be serious, and they can lead to the road becoming impassable due to the fallout of the accident. In these cases, traffic will come to a standstill and cause massive back-ups, blocking the way for emergency vehicles to get to the site of an accident. The hard shoulder can provide a route past the traffic for emergency vehicles, enabling them to reach the accident scene more quickly. In addition to getting help to those involved in the accident faster, they can also get traffic moving again in less time. Another important use for hard shoulders is providing relief during the busiest periods for road traffic. This tends to be more common on busier motorways, but hard shoulders can be converted to usable lanes when needed, increasing the throughput of the road and allowing more traffic to get by without causing traffic jams. Such hard shoulder use will most likely be signalled by digital signage. However, some hard shoulders may have a set schedule by which they become open to general traffic. In these cases, there will be a sign — digital or otherwise — showing the schedule, which will likely coincide with "rush hour" periods, such as the morning, when everyone is heading to work. When should you use a hard shoulder? In Ireland, it is an offence to use a hard shoulder when in a manner that is not permitted and can lead to penalty points. Naturally, road users will want to ensure that they don't accidentally fall afoul of improper hard shoulder usage. Below we have listed the main situations in which you would be permitted to use the hard shoulder. National roads If you are driving on a non-motorway road with a hard shoulder, the usage of the hard shoulder is somewhat more relaxed. For one thing, it is intended for use by pedestrians and cyclists. For motorists, the rules remain almost the same as they are for motorway hard shoulders, except that you are permitted to temporarily pull onto the hard shoulder to let another vehicle pass. This rule applies to slow-moving vehicles, such as tractors, and it should only be done when there is no legal and safe way to overtake them without pulling into the hard shoulder. As with any manoeuvre, it is important to check your mirrors and make sure it is safe to pull onto the hard shoulder before doing so. Breakdowns and emergencies If your vehicle breaks down, it would obviously be extremely hazardous to stop in the middle of a motorway, where there will always be traffic moving at high speeds no matter what the time of day. In this situation, you should attempt to steer your car safely to the hard shoulder, being aware of other vehicles, particularly if you have to cross any lanes to get to the hard shoulder. Once on the hard shoulder, you should park as far to the left as you can, being careful not to put your vehicle in a position it could not be driven away from, such as off the road and over an embankment. Once this is done and you have made every effort to increase the visibility of your vehicle (such as turning the hazard lights on), you and your passengers should exit the vehicle and stand behind the crash barrier while someone contacts the Gardaí. If you cannot make it to the hard shoulder, make sure your hazards are on and that you exit the vehicle as soon as you have a safe opportunity to quickly get off the road. Instructions from signage or the Gardaí Whether a result of traffic congestion or road incidents, you may sometimes be asked to use the hard shoulder. If instructed by the Gardaí, you should do so immediately, as this will be a matter of safety for you and other road users. If signage indicates that the hard shoulder is open for regular traffic, you should treat it as an inside lane. The law regarding inside lanes in Ireland is that you should stick to that lane unless you are overtaking or merging into traffic. More things you should know about using the hard shoulder Knowing when you can use the hard shoulder is important, but it's far from everything you need to know about the auxiliary lane. Here are some other important bits of information to bear in mind about the hard shoulder: Never attempt repairs on the hard shoulder yourself. Do not stand in a motorway lane or hard shoulder with your vehicle — always move off the road, preferably behind the crash barrier when possible. When rejoining the motorway after a breakdown, build up your speed on the hard shoulder before merging into traffic. Never reverse or drive back along the hard shoulder under any circumstance (for example, a missed exit). Final thoughts on hard shoulder There are many rules regarding the use of the hard shoulder, but for many road users, they can mostly be boiled down to "don't use the hard shoulder unless it's an emergency or the Gardaí tell you to". At the time of publishing this article, the penalty for driving on the hard shoulder of a motorway is 1 point on payment and 3 penalty points on conviction. There's also a fine of €80 to €120 (depending on how quickly you pay up), so it's best not to try your luck. That about covers it, so drive safely!

While most of us are aware that vehicles use something called coolant, many of us are unsure as to exactly what coolant is or why our cars need it. Coolant, also known as anti-freeze, is used in the cooling systems of most cars to help maintain the vehicle’s engine temperature within the normal operating range. However, that is not the only purpose of engine coolant. In fact, it is recommended to always use coolant because it helps prevent rust and mineral build-up from forming in your car’s radiator. Since there is always water present in your car’s radiator, it is always wise to have coolant in the system so that your car remains protected against corrosion year-round. The name coolant can sometimes be confusing because we associate the word “coolant” with something that would only be needed during the warm summer months. However, coolant also provides protection in the cold winter months by making it unlikely for the water in your car’s radiator to freeze. This is why the additive is also known as anti-freeze. In general, most vehicle manufacturers recommend that vehicles should not be used without coolant because using only water can cause rust and other deposits to form within the vehicle’s cooling system. Once these deposits have formed, they can be quite difficult to get rid of, and they can even inhibit the cooling system’s performance. Engine coolant doesn’t require frequent replacement, which means that most drivers will never need to worry about the coolant in their vehicles. New vehicles come filled with coolant, and, in many cases, the coolant doesn’t require replacement for the first few years of the car’s lifecycle. Mechanics often check the coolant level and strength in a vehicle’s cooling system when the owner brings the vehicle in for a scheduled service, and as such, any problems with coolant are usually detected at this stage. What exactly is engine coolant? Engine coolant is an additive mixed with water and added to the cooling system of a vehicle. Most engine coolants are glycol-based and come in liquid form. Coolant is generally mixed with pure water in a 50/50 ratio before adding it to your vehicle's cooling system. Engine coolant is an important part of every vehicle, and using your vehicle without having engine coolant in the radiator can lead to damage. Why is it recommended to use coolant? Coolant is especially important for colder areas where the low winter temperatures can cause the water in a vehicle's radiator to freeze. When the water in your radiator freezes, the increased pressure caused by the expanding water can lead to cracks forming in the engine or other components. On the other hand, anti-freeze also increases the water's boiling point so that the water can effectively transfer heat from the engine to the surrounding air without boiling, giving you protection throughout the year. That is extremely important because when the water in a vehicle's radiator begins to boil, it longer effectively transfers heat. It is important to note that engine coolant is highly toxic to humans and animals because glycol in the fluid gets converted into alcohol once it is ingested. The alcohol then becomes toxic and can cause serious problems for humans and animals if ingested. In addition, anti-freeze is reported to have a sweet taste, making it attractive to animals. It is always wise to handle any chemicals with care and ensure that children and animals cannot access dangerous chemicals like anti-freeze without adult supervision. How long does engine coolant last? Generally, engine coolant lasts for a very long time. In some cases, manufacturers recommend that engine coolant levels be checked every 15 years. Engine coolant is quite stable and doesn't deteriorate easily. Still, the additive becomes less active over time and might need replacement. Checking if your anti-freeze is due for replacement should be left to an experienced mechanic, as they have access to the required equipment and tools. If it is determined that your vehicle is in need of a coolant change, the mechanic will proceed to drain and flush the cooling system before replacing the water and coolant mix with a fresh batch. Flushing the cooling system is important because it helps to remove any sediment or impurities that might have built up in the vehicle's cooling system over time. Impurities such as rust and other sediments can lead to degraded performance, and once these items have been removed, you might notice an improvement in the performance of your vehicle’s cooling system. When is it recommended to change the coolant? Since replacing the coolant in your vehicle’s cooling system is time-consuming, mechanics will usually check the coolant before replacing it. Because coolant can look perfectly normal even when it has degraded, specialised tests are performed to determine if the coolant is still working well before replacing the fluid is considered. This involves testing the acidity levels of the coolant/water mix to determine whether or not the anti-freeze is still providing the desired protection against corrosion. The mixture is also tested to ensure that it still provides protection against overheating and freezing. It's unnecessary to replace the coolant if the tests show that the fluid is still working as it should. However, if any of the parameters are not met, it might be wise to replace the coolant so that your car remains protected against corrosion and extreme temperatures. Although all vehicle manufacturers recommend that coolant should always be used, there are huge differences in the recommended coolant replacement schedules. Some manufacturers recommend that coolant should be replaced within the first 100,000 km and every 50,000 km thereafter, while others recommend that the fluid should be replaced every 12 to 15 years. Do all vehicles require engine coolant? Yes, in general, most vehicles require engine coolant. Although it is perfectly possible for vehicles to operate without coolant, it is not recommended. In fact, most car manufacturers recommend that coolant should always be used to ensure that your vehicle operates as it should. Coolant serves many purposes, but one of the most important purposes is to protect the vehicle's cooling system against corrosion and other problems. Engine coolant is not something that needs to be replaced frequently, but it is well worth it to have the coolant in your car checked now and again. Replacing the coolant is a relatively inexpensive undertaking, and this is especially true when you consider the damage that can be caused when operating your vehicle without coolant. The best time to check the coolant in your vehicle is just before the start of the winter season because the fluid is most important during the winter season when it prevents the water in your car’s radiator from freezing. However, if you notice any symptoms that might indicate that the fluid is no longer working optimally, have it checked immediately. Some of these problems can include overheating or poor cooling performance. One of the easiest ways to notice this is by keeping an eye on the engine temperature. If you notice that your vehicle’s engine is running warmer than usual without any clear reason, the cooling system and coolant are likely due for a check. It is also important to stick to the recommendations provided by your vehicle manufacturer, and you can usually find information on when to check and replace the coolant in your vehicle’s instruction manual. In some cases, it might be prudent to use a specialised engine coolant. Some of these cases include older vehicles that might require stronger anti-corrosion protection or cars that operate in particularly harsh conditions. For example, vehicles frequently used to tow trailers or carry heavy loads might require a stronger mix of coolant and water to ensure that the engine is kept cool. Also, vehicles stored outside in extremely cold temperatures might need additional anti-freeze protection to keep the water in the radiator from freezing. To this end, most coolant containers come with a chart detailing the exact mix of coolant/water required to protect the vehicle from freezing at a specific temperature. Conclusion on using coolant Engine coolant is often the last thing that we think about when getting into our cars, but this humble fluid plays an important role in ensuring that your car remains reliable and that we can travel from point A to B without any unwelcome interruptions. Although it might be tempting to avoid changing the coolant in your vehicle when you are pressed for time or working on a tight budget, it is well worth remembering that the cost to replace your engine coolant is minuscule compared to how much vehicle damage can cost you if coolant is not changed in time.

Ever wonder what Adblue is? If you want to buy a new or used diesel engine car, you will probably have heard the word "AdBlue" mentioned before more than a few times. It was first launched by Tetrosyl under the Carlube brand back in 2009. AdBlue, also known as DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) or AUS 32, is essential in the operation of diesel particulate filters (DPF) with SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) technology. AdBlue is the brand name used for a type of fluid designed for the catalytic convertor connected to some diesel car exhaust systems. Everything you need to know about AdBlue So, now you know what AdBlue is. With the evolution of anti-pollution standards, car manufacturers must constantly offer new alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, more and more of these cars are now equipped with SCR devices in an attempt to reduce diesel vehicles' impact on the environment. It is a liquid solution that eliminates a large part of the nitrogen oxides resulting from diesel combustion. The composition of AdBlue AdBlue is a liquid solution specially designed for vehicles running on diesel. Composed of 32.5% urea solution and 67.5% demineralised water, AdBlue allows the nitrogen oxides emitted by running diesel engines to be changed into water vapour and nitrogen, making the component harmless for people and the environment. This component is found only in vehicles with SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction). AdBlue is colourless, biodegradable, non-toxic, non-explosive, non-flammable and does not present any major danger to health or the environment. The use of AdBlue is essential in the operation of SCR technology particulate filters and reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 80% to 90%. Because if the FAP manages to capture most of the particles, it cannot, however, capture the nitrogen oxides (NOx) because these are too small. SCR devices using AdBlue are becoming more and more democratised. Since 2006, it's been compulsory for all heavy goods vehicles that run on diesel. Most car manufacturers now offer at least one vehicle incorporating a fuel tank. How does AdBlue work? When a diesel vehicle is driving, the system sends AdBlue upstream of the SCR device. Under the effect of the heat coming from the exhaust fumes, the urea solution that makes up AdBlue changes into carbon dioxide and ammonia. Passing through the SCR catalyst, the ammonia resulting from the transformation of AdBlue will undergo a chemical reaction when it comes into contact with the nitrogen oxides released following the combustion process. Only water vapour (H20) and nitrogen (N2) will remain at the outlet of the catalyst. What is the AdBlue warning light that comes on the dashboard? As with other liquid compounds found in vehicles, you should regularly monitor the AdBlue level. For this reason, cars running on AdBlue all have a specially designed warning light on their dashboard to alert the driver that the AdBlue tank will soon run dry. This warning light can either be in the form of a blue fuel pump with the wording "AdBlue" or the words "CHECK UREA SYSTEM" or a fuel pump changing from black to orange and then to red. There's no need to panic when this light comes on. Even if it tells the user that the AdBlue tank will soon be empty, they will still have an average of 2,400 km before they really run out of fuel. Nevertheless, it will not be necessary to wait too long before refilling AdBlue because vehicles whose AdBlue reserves are completely empty will generally refuse to start until the user has added at least 5 litres to the tank. Where can I fill up my diesel vehicle with AdBlue? Like all fluids that keep a car running correctly, you must occasionally top up the AdBlue tank. In normal driving, vehicles consume one litre of AdBlue for every 1,000 kilometres. Vehicles are usually equipped with tanks of around twenty litres, which can drive for 20,000 kilometres before having to refill AdBlue. To fill your AdBlue tank, you must first locate the characteristic light-blue cap. While it is usually found under the fuel filler flap next to the diesel cap in newer vehicles, the caps are more likely to be found in the boot or near the engine block in older cars. Once the cap has been identified, all you have to do is fill the tank enough to be able to leave without risk. Checking your vehicle's handbook for instructions is always a good idea. How to fill the AdBlue tank? Canisters are suitable for topping up, although sometimes a funnel is provided. If the tank is almost empty, it must be filled with at least 4 litres. Do not fill it to the brim or fill it up before the light comes on. If the filling of AdBlue exceeds the tank's maximum capacity, the liquid can go up in the pipe, which risks crystallising and blocking the vent. This will degrade the tank, which will then need to be replaced. It is quite possible to ask to have this operation carried out in a workshop of the vehicle brand or, to save costs, in a garage or an approved service workshop. Another precaution, especially if the hole is under the fuel filler flap, is to never pour diesel into the blue hole and never pour AdBlue into the fuel tank. Dispose of any AdBlue left in the container, as it will degrade over time. Please note that AdBlue is not a diesel additive, so it should never be mixed directly with fuel. Frequently asked questions about AdBlue What should I do if my Adblue tank is empty? Please take care to avoid having an empty AdBlue tank. Being approved to operate with their particulate filters, cars using AdBlue must never run dry. The system will switch the engine to degraded mode to prevent the vehicle from driving without AdBlue by limiting the speed (in the best case), imposing a complete stoppage of the engine or preventing the vehicle from restarting before refuelling (at least 5L). However, don't panic. You will be alerted well in advance by a message when your car starts, telling you the number of kilometres or miles remaining before the system goes into the degraded mode or locks up. These messages begin to appear when only a 2,400 km range of AdBlue remains. Where can I buy AdBlue? Many places sell AdBlue, including auto parts stores and petrol stations. You can also order it online and send it to your home or business. The most common method is to buy a canister of AdBlue. AdBlue cans for cars are packaged in 5L or 10L cans. Professionals can buy 210L or even 1,000L tanks, ideal for a fleet of trucks. However, keep in mind that AdBlue can be stored, under ideal conditions, for up to 18 months from the date of production. Some fuel stations offer pumps dedicated to AdBlue. They are still a minority, but their number is growing. What should I do if I put AdBlue in the wrong tank If you accidentally put AdBlue in the diesel tank, you must call a mechanic because there is a very high risk of damaging your car's engine. It can lead to costly repairs in terms of labour and the cost of replacing parts. What should I do if I put diesel in the AdBlue tank? You should be aware that a single drop of diesel in the AdBlue tank can contaminate several litres of AdBlue or even a full tank. If you ever put diesel in the AdBlue tank, do not start your car; you will dangerously damage the car's SCR system, which will cause the vehicle to be immobilised and incur high replacement costs. Quickly contact a mechanic or your dealership. Is AdBlue considered to be dangerous? AdBlue is non-toxic, non-flammable and does not explode. Simply rinse your hands with water after coming into contact with AdBlue. It can leave whitish or greyish marks on bodywork and clothing, but any stains can be easily rinsed away with water. AdBlue spilt can make the ground slippery, but all it takes to remove any hazard is a quick hose down with water. What precautions to take when using Adblue in freezing weather? AdBlue crystallises at -11° C. A car parked under this temperature does not require any particular anticipation. The standards require manufacturers to have an automatic heating system to make the solution liquid activate the SCR within 20 minutes after start-up. What about AdBlue when storing a car? AdBlue has a shelf life of over a year. But if the car has been stored for many months or has travelled very few kilometres over a year, it may be advisable to have the tank drained to renew the product.

Buying a used car can understandably be an anxiety-inducing experience. When you buy a used car from a garage, you typically get some kind of warranty, but these warranties will often be limited to critical problems and labour, leaving plenty of room for expensive repair bills if your used car choice wasn’t the best. And, of course, buying a used car from a private seller usually comes with no warranties or guarantees. While there will always be risks involved with buying a used car, there are a number of things to look out for that can reduce the possibility of buying something with catastrophic problems hiding away, and one of the most obvious is the mileage. The number of miles a vehicle has done is a clear indicator of how much wear and tear it has suffered and makes a solid starting point in determining whether the vehicle is good value for money or even worth buying at all. Of course, mileage should never be the only factor considered, and we'll get into that in more detail below. But for the vast majority of used vehicles, mileage is probably the single most accurate indicator of a vehicle's condition. You may think that using your eyes would be more effective, but a car's exterior could be immaculate, yet it may be only a few thousand miles from needing a new engine! Likewise, a vehicle could be covered in scratches and dents but still be one of the most well-maintained vehicles on the road. As with many things in life, looks can be deceiving. Let's dig deeper into this topic. What does mileage mean? For the younger road users, "mileage" might be a bit of a confusing term since Ireland officially moved away from miles over a decade ago. Mileage refers to the distance the car has travelled since it first rolled off the factory line. That distance is officially measured in kilometres for Irish vehicles, but the term "mileage" is often still used. Indeed, all cars sold in Ireland since 2005 have been required to have speedometers that only display kilometres per hour. For this article, we'll be using kilometres as our unit of choice, as it is intended for Irish readers. Mileage is generally a better indicator of the car's condition than its age because while time does take a toll on a vehicle, it is the wear and tear of use that causes the most damage. Mileage refers to the number of miles the vehicle has travelled and does not factor in the length of time the engine has been running. In the vast majority of cases, this will be an insignificant distinction since the amount of time an average vehicle spends idling is only a small portion of the time it spends driving. Of course, you should never only consider one aspect of a vehicle when buying used. Even though the mileage is possibly the most useful metric, it is not foolproof — a car with low mileage can still have problems. It's important to understand that you need to consider the whole picture, including your own circumstances. For example, if you absolutely cannot get by without transportation and are working with a tight budget, any road-legal car is better than none. Alternatively, if you currently have a vehicle and want to upgrade, you can afford to be patient and look for the right vehicle. Now, with mileage explained and this disclaimer out of the way, let's discuss how to determine good mileage from bad. Why is mileage a good indicator of condition? Before you can understand what a good mileage looks like, you need to understand why mileage is significant. Vehicles are subject to considerable wear and tear when they are used regularly. Much of this is mitigated by having components designed to be replaced regularly, such as tyres, filters, bushes, and more. Unfortunately, many parts of a vehicle cannot be readily serviceable in this manner, but they are subject to wear and tear all the same. These include the components inside the engine itself. With proper maintenance, an engine can live a long and healthy life before needing any kind of serious work, such as a rebuild or a replacement. But even with proper maintenance, an engine will eventually need some serious attention. It's a matter of "when" rather than "if". The same goes for the other parts in a vehicle, such as the transmission, brake lines, and even the motors powering electric windows or mirrors. The more use a car has seen, the more likely it will need some serious — and likely expensive — work down the road. Mileage is your best indicator of how much use a vehicle has seen. What is good mileage for used cars? An average road user in Ireland will travel roughly 17,000 km per year in their car, so the first thing to consider is the age of the car. Divide a car's mileage by its age, and that figure should be around 17,000 km — give or take one or two thousand. For example, a three-year-old car should have around 51,000 km on the clock. This car has been driven much less than average if it is significantly under that. Significantly over and…you get the idea. Of course, there are other factors, but as a general rule, if a used car's mileage is under this amount, it's a good thing. It is a good rule to go by if you are only looking to get the best second-hand car you can, but that's unlikely to be the case. Money is going to be important — after all, if money weren't a concern, you probably wouldn't be buying a used car in the first place. With that in mind, the next thing to consider is the price. Cars with higher mileage should be cheaper, so you shouldn't automatically write off higher-mileage used cars if you are limited on funds. You'll still need to consider a few things depending on what the actual mileage is, but the fact that it's higher should be an automatic deal-breaker. The mileage itself is important, however. Every engine is different, but a general rule of thumb for how long an engine should last (assuming it is looked after and properly serviced) is about 300,000 km. If a used car is creeping up on that figure, it should definitely be treated with extreme caution. But, here's where it's important to consider all aspects: a car with 150,000 km on the clock should be quite a bit cheaper than a car of the same model and year that only has 60,000 km. If you don't expect to be doing many, you should still get plenty of use from the first car before it develops any serious problems. On the other hand, if you are going to be driving a lot, the money saved by buying the 150,000 km car could soon be wiped out by the cost of repairing your engine. Another important factor is the service history of the vehicle. Not every car owner cares for their vehicle as they should, and it makes a difference. A vehicle with low mileage and no service history should be treated with caution, as it may very well be a worse bet than the same model with higher mileage that's been looked after well. That is why you should never consider just one factor when deciding whether a used car is a good deal or not. Things to consider besides good mileage As we've mentioned, the above advice is good for most situations, but there will always be exceptions. Here are a couple of other things to look out for: Rolled-back speedometers The days of literally winding back speedometers may be behind us, but the practice of rolling back the clock to make it appear as though the vehicle has done fewer miles than it truly has is still alive and well. Your best defence against this is to check the previous mileages recorded during past NCTs to see if the pattern makes sense with the current mileage. While this does happen, it's also worth noting that it's not very common. Engine replacements In some cases, when an engine breaks down, it is cheaper to replace it than rebuild it. This situation is worth considering because the engine is the most significant component in the vehicle when considering mileage, and the mileage of the donor vehicle could have been significantly less — or more — than the car it is in now. Documentation on the mileage of the donor vehicle and the date of the engine replacement should be provided by the seller.

Though manual transmissions have typically been the popular choice around Europe, the number of automatic cars on the roads of Ireland has been growing considerably. And, with the growing popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles, more vehicles are hitting the market without any manual transmission option! For a road user who has only ever driven a manual transmission, switching to an automatic can be a little daunting, but should it be? An automatic car removes the clutch pedal from the equation, taking care of gear shifting automatically and freeing up the driver's shifting hand. Benefits of driving an automatic car The reality is that automatic transmissions are designed to make the driving experience easier, and there is no reason why someone who has exclusively driven manual transmissions should be worried about getting into the driver's seat of an automatic car. Similarly, with the number of automatic cars on Irish roads growing, new drivers shouldn't worry about getting started with an auto. It should be noted that there are different aspects to consider when discussing transmissions. A manual transmission requires the driver to depress a clutch pedal while shifting and changing the gears themselves, whereas an automatic transmission takes entirely care of the shifting process. There are also semi-automatic transmissions, which are essentially the same as an automatic from the driver's perspective, but they are manual transmissions under the hood. Most modern automatic transmissions will also provide the functionality to shift gears manually, which can further confuse matters. We will cover all of these differences in more detail in this article. What does "automatic car" mean? If you want to know what an "automatic car" means, it's important to know what a transmission (also known as a gearbox) does in your car. The transmission transmits the rotational energy from your engine to your wheels through a gearing system. The gearing allows your vehicle to set off from stationary without stalling the engine and achieve much faster speeds than what the engine could manage without a gearbox. The way the transmission connects to the engine is an important part of how manual and automatic transmissions work. If the gearbox were directly coupled to the engine, gear changes would need to be perfectly timed to avoid smashing gears together, causing a lot of noise, damage, and uncomfortable driving. These disturbances are avoided in manual transmissions by using a clutch, which allows the driver to temporarily disconnect the transmission from the engine so that the driver can safely change gears before releasing the clutch and re-engaging the engine. The gear shifting is handled by moving the gear lever, which operates various internal components in the gearbox to select different gears. Automatic transmissions take care of gear changes themselves, requiring the driver to neither depress a clutch pedal nor shift a gear lever. The way this is achieved varies depending on the automatic transmission and would be too technical to cover here, but needless to say, it involves lots of ingenuity and complex machinery. The degree to which electronics are involved has also increased significantly over the years, as transmission manufacturers strive to make their products more comfortable to drive. What was once an almost entirely mechanical component is now a highly-engineered piece of machinery controlled by a dedicated computer. These new tech and advanced engineering features result in drivers having fewer things to think about while operating their vehicles. And, in many cases, they will deliver a much smoother driving experience than a vehicle fitted with a manual transmission. Learn how to drive an automatic car Everything about the operation of an automatic car is the same as a manual or semi-automatic car except for the gear shifting component. Indeed, if you were to compare two identical models—one being an automatic and the other a manual—you would find the only difference is the gear lever and the number of pedals. Depending on the car, there may still be a gear lever, though the operating of that lever will be different from a manual shifter. In other words, you drive an automatic car the same way as you would a manual, except you don't need to change gears. When switching from a manual to an automatic, some drivers find themselves at a loss regarding their clutch pedal foot. Generally, it is best to put your clutch pedal foot to the side and avoid using it, as there is a real risk of accidentally hitting the brake pedal when you don't mean to. Of course, this is a minor problem that most people do not struggle with, and those who do are usually able to adapt very quickly. Modern automatic cars are very safe when it comes to protecting the transmission from damage, so the driver should not need to drive in a specific way to protect their car. At least, no more so than they would with any other type of car. It is also common for modern automatics to feature a manual gear shifting capability, which could be part of a gear lever or as paddles on the steering column. Again, modern transmissions will be smart enough to protect the transmission from bad shifting, but the timing of when to shift is no different from a manual transmission. If you are unsure about manual shifting, it's best to leave it to the gearbox. The different types of transmissions Manual and automatic transmissions are not the only options on the market, and it can be a little confusing trying to understand the differences. We will look at the four main transmission options you are likely to face when choosing a car in this section. Manual transmission Manual transmissions feature a clutch that temporarily decouples the engine from the gearbox, allowing the driver to safely and comfortably shift gears without damaging anything. Manual transmissions require the most effort on the part of the driver but are also the least expensive in both initial cost and the cost of repairs should anything go wrong. Though the popularity of automatic transmissions is growing, this is still the most common type of transmission found on the roads of Ireland. Fully automatic transmission A fully automatic transmission is incredibly complex. The systems vary in how they work, but the result of that complexity is that the driver no longer has to initiate gear shifts themselves, regardless of the specific method used. The transmission will handle gear changes at appropriate times, including separating the drivetrain from the engine during the gear shift. Automatic transmissions are the most expensive kinds of gearboxes, both the initial cost and for maintenance and repair. Semi-automatic transmission As the name suggests, semi-automatic transmissions fall somewhere in between a manual and a fully automatic car. They are also kind of an odd one out and not too commonplace in the automotive world. These transmissions are essentially manual gearboxes that have various motors and solenoids attached to them to take the place of the clutch pedal and gear lever. In many cases, there is no difference between a semi-automatic transmission and its manual counterpart, save for these motors. Semi-automatic transmissions fall somewhere between their manual and automatic cousins in cost also. In terms of the driving experience, they offer more convenience than a manual transmission. But they almost always produce a rougher ride than a fully automatic car. Electric vehicles Electric vehicles bring a new paradigm to the automotive world. Gearboxes are necessary because traditional internal combustion engines can only produce so much torque and stall when their RPM drops too low. Gearboxes allow for the moderation of forces so that a gradual transition of power from the engine to the wheels is possible. Electric vehicles do not have such constraints and often have motors directly on the wheels. In other words, electric vehicles usually do not have a transmission at all. In practical terms, this means it drives like an automatic car. The benefits of owning an automatic car There are several benefits to owning an automatic car. Here are some of the main ones: Increased ride comfort due to smoother gear shifting Added convenience by eliminating the need to shift gears Reduced wear and tear on other components Higher resale value The downsides to owning an automatic car The two main downsides of owning an automatic car are related to cost and maintenance. Automatic transmissions (and automatic cars) are more expensive than manual cars. They are also more complex and require more maintenance than vehicles with a manual transmission. In addition, the costs of repairing faults are usually much higher than they are with manuals.

Many people have switched to electric cars, whether it's the urgency of the climate crisis or rising fuel costs. While you can find other sustainable modes of transport, car ownership is crucial for many people. The popularity of electric vehicles is also heightened due to the introduction of low emission zones and plans by local governments to ban new diesel and petrol-powered cars. While electric cars offer numerous benefits, from environmental sustainability to reduced maintenance costs, they are also outright expensive. However, you can invest in a second-hand electric car and enjoy the same benefits at a reduced cost. So, are second-hand electric cars worth buying? Let’s explore the benefits and downsides of buying second-hand electric cars. What are the benefits of buying a second-hand electric car? Costs less than new electric cars While electric vehicles are becoming more affordable as they join the mainstream, they are still costly. For instance, the most pocket-friendly electric car still costs over £15,000. Hence, a second-hand EV is a viable alternative if you don’t want to stretch your budget. Buying a second-hand electric vehicle saves you some cash, and you won’t have to be locked into monthly car payments if you can avoid financing. With the rising demand for new electric vehicles, most car manufacturers have more orders than they can supply. Hence, electric car prices are constantly rising instead of dropping. The technological advancements in EVs also make them expensive. Second-hand electric cars are usually more affordable as new technologies are introduced. The diminished resale value is the main disadvantage of buying a new electric car, but it could benefit a second-hand buyer. You can bargain the price and get a good deal that suits your budget. For instance, most EV models cost 43% to 72% less than new ones. That means you can buy a good quality car for less than £10,000. Second-hand EVs are usually in better condition The major risk of buying a used internal combustion engine car is the miles on the odometer and its impact on the mechanical engine. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than conventional cars, so there's no need to worry about engine wear and tear. Besides, second-hand electric cars have fewer miles on the odometer than petrol-powered vehicles of the same age. Having fewer moving parts also reduces the maintenance costs of used cars. When you buy second-hand conventional cars, there is always a risk of breakdowns that require major servicing, especially in the third year. However, second-hand electric cars don’t have high maintenance costs; you only need to replace the brake fluid and cabin filter and do a tire rotation. Since electric vehicles have only recently been introduced, second-hand cars are relatively new compared to cars that have been around for decades. Most EV car owners resell them to get the latest models with better features. Hence, you can find a relatively new electric car with less than 10,000 miles on the clock. Smooth driving experience If you are buying an electric car for the first time, you can invest in second-hand EVs before going for the latest models. The best part is that you will enjoy all the benefits of electric cars. Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles that are noisy and coarse, electric cars provide a smooth ride. The vibrations are diminished, and you can enjoy quiet rides. The added weight and lowered centre of gravity in electric cars make them feel more planted and comfortable on the road. The exceptional performance of electric vehicles isn’t diminished as the car becomes older. Environmental benefits Unlike vehicles with internal combustion engines, electric cars do not produce exhaust fumes and pollutants that contribute to the climate crisis. Whether you use a second-hand or new electric car, the environmental benefits are great. If your local power plant uses renewable energy to generate electricity for electric vehicles, your car will have zero pollution. Buying a used electric car provides more eco-friendly benefits than a conventional car. Second-hand electric cars also benefit from government grants and EV tax exemptions. For instance, you can benefit from the home-charge scheme by the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV), which gives you a £350 grant for installing a charging point at home. You will also be exempted from the Congestion Charge that applies to traditional petrol and diesel-powered vehicles. The cons of buying a second-hand electric car Possibility of diminished battery performance Any battery-powered device will show diminished performance over time. The same can happen to electric cars since batteries power them. As the EV battery ages, you will notice reduced performance and range. Driving in high temperatures, draining the battery to a low voltage and charging to maximum capacity takes a toll on the battery’s life. While the performance drop takes time for electric cars, it is noticeable when you buy used EVs. Besides, most second-hand electric cars have been around for a few years and may not have the latest liquid-cooling system to preserve battery life. For instance, early Nissan Leaf electric cars from 2011 to 2012 had air-cooled batteries, and battery fade was a major problem in these models. The charging factor Are you ready for the switch to electric cars? If the plugging rate in your home is below 240 volts and you have old wiring, you need to prepare to own an electric vehicle. Unlike new electric cars with the maximum battery range for the model, second-hand EVs cover fewer miles on a full charge. Hence, you need access to a charging point to optimise its use. If you can plug in your electric car at home, you can minimise using public charging. When your home isn’t ready for owning an EV, the installation and wiring costs eat away the potential savings of owning a second-hand car. If you plan to use public chargers, ensure you know the costs and weigh your options. Some charging stations charge by the hour, which is expensive in the long run. Battery life uncertainties Modern electric cars are relatively new, and you cannot judge the battery life of a used EV. When you are the second buyer, you won’t know the charging history and the weather conditions the car was exposed to. Hence, you cannot estimate the damage done to the battery and the years you can use without replacement. Fortunately, many car manufacturers offer an extended battery warranty to cover the replacement cost should it fail. Outdated technology The rapid technological advancement of electric cars makes many features outdated within a short period. If you buy a second-hand electric vehicle, you have to put up with outdated technology since new models are released regularly. While conventional cars also face the same challenge of outdated technology, the impact is magnified for electric cars. New models have better battery performance and range, and you have to put up with a reduced range. For example, the 2018 Nissan Leaf has a 151-mile range, while the 2015 model offers 87 miles. Diminished resale value If you buy a second-hand electric car for temporary use, you will have a diminished resale value. The vehicle depreciates after a few years. If you use it for a year, the vehicle's value will diminish. However, you won’t suffer the same loss that the original car owner’s experienced since the depreciation curve tapers. If you plan on trading it for a new vehicle, you won’t receive a lot of cash. Factors to consider when buying a second-hand EV? Determine the battery condition Looking only at the sleek design and beautiful interior can make an electric vehicle a bad investment. Check the battery if you want to know whether a second-hand electric car is worth buying. Your biggest investment will go to the battery if you need to replace it. How do you know if the battery can hold its charge? You can get a mechanic to test the battery or check the vehicle service to determine the battery's health. If it is in poor condition, you can ask for a replacement before buying the car. Car range The car range will help you determine if the car is suitable for you. If the car is short-range, consider using it for errands and short in-town trips. However, if you do lots of long-distance travel, you need a long-range second-hand car. Early EV models had a short battery range, and since you are buying a used car with diminished battery life, the range is reduced. Battery warranty Most electric vehicles come with two warranties. When buying a second-hand electric car, the vehicle warranty may have lapsed, but the battery warranty usually lasts up to 8 years in some models. You should check if the warranty is still valid and ensure it is transferrable upon purchase. Conclusion Electric vehicles are gaining popularity as people aim to reduce carbon footprints. Second-hand electric vehicles can be your ticket to eco-friendly transport. You can get a used EV with impressive battery life and good range, even on a limited budget.

With the growing interest in electric vehicles over the last decade, many people have weighed the best choices between petrol and electric cars. EVs are now in the mainstream market, but the first question that many buyers ask is whether electric cars are better than petrol cars. With the constantly changing legislation and technological advancement of electric cars, choosing between the two can be daunting. Let's explore both car types and their pros and cons. What is a petrol-powered car? A petrol car has an internal combustion engine and burns petrol fuel to power the vehicle. Its powertrain includes a transmission, driveshaft axles, engine and differentials. The mechanical engine sends power through the gearbox to the wheels after burning a mixture of air and petrol with the help of spark plugs that ignite the combustion. The internal combustion process releases mechanical energy that requires a transmission to relay the energy to the wheels. For a petrol car to perform optimally at various speeds, you need a range of gears. You can drive faster when switching to higher gears, while lower gears provide more torque. However, you need to rev up the engine to achieve the maximum power and torque. Benefits of petrol cars Some of the pros of using a petrol car include: Affordable to buy Petrol cars have been on the market for centuries. Hence, you can find an affordable car model that suits any budget. New cars are relatively affordable compared to electric cars since they are manufactured at a lower cost. If you buy second-hand petrol cars, the price reduces significantly due to the faster depreciation. You will also find many used petrol car options, further lowering the price. Good driving agility Most petrol cars have turbocharged engines to improve internal combustion and boost performance. Hence, you will have great performance and speed, and you can switch between gears effortlessly. Less local air pollution Petrol cars produce particulate emissions. These emissions usually contribute to local air pollution and can be linked to respiratory problems. Fortunately, the amount released from petrol cars is lower than diesel cars. Fuel efficiency in short trips Petrol cars are fuel-efficient if you use them to run minor errands around town, like picking up and dropping off kids. Modern petrol cars with turbo-boosted engines are fuel-efficient and responsive since turbochargers maximise internal combustion to generate sufficient energy. Cons of petrol cars Higher CO2 emissions While petrol cars emit minimal particulate matter, they have a higher carbon footprint due to the emissions from their exhaust pipes. Internal combustion leads to the release of carbon dioxide into the environment, causing air pollution. With high CO2 output, you will pay more taxes based on the carbon dioxide released per kilometre. Less fuel-efficient for long journeys When you drive a petrol car, you will pay less per litre on fuel costs. However, you use more petrol on long-distance journeys than diesel cars. The engines use more fuel to generate power to propel the vehicles. While you won’t notice the problem with short trips, you will pay more for long motorway journeys. High maintenance costs Petrol cars have many mechanical components and moving parts. Hence, you are likely to pay more to maintain or replace the moving parts. You also need to do regular oil changes and routine servicing to keep the vehicle in good condition. What is an electric vehicle? An electric vehicle is an eco-friendly transport option that uses electricity instead of petrol or diesel fuel to power the car. Its powertrain consists of a motor and transmission with minimal moving parts. An electric car uses the energy stored in the battery pack to propel the car by transmitting it to the motor. The electrical energy is converted to mechanical and kinetic energy in the transmission to propel the wheels. Unlike a mechanical engine that vibrates during energy conversion, an electric car is silent. Electric vehicles have one fixed gear. That means you don’t have to switch between different gears to accelerate the car, and it can attain maximum torque in seconds. The gears only move in clockwise and anticlockwise directions when you reverse or propel the car forward. Pros of electric cars Zero emissions Electric cars do not use an internal combustion engine. Hence, there is no particulate matter or carbon emission from exhaust fumes. Electric cars don’t have an exhaust pipe since they don’t need to release any gas. Zero emissions are possible in all-electric cars, but when you are using a plug-in hybrid, it generates low emissions. Electric vehicles are good for the environment since they reduce air pollution levels considerably and improve your carbon footprint. Low maintenance Electric vehicles don't have many moving parts. Hence, they don't require regular servicing and maintenance. You don't have to worry about oil changes and the regular wear and tear from moving parts. Even the brakes are more durable in electric cars. The only maintenance cost you will incur is in the battery. However, it usually lasts over ten years before it requires replacement. Quiet and smooth rides Electric vehicles are silent, and you can enjoy quiet rides. The minimal moving parts reduce noise, and the engine vibrations are hardly noticeable. Using electric vehicles can minimise noise pollution in cities. Cons of electric vehicles Expensive Electric cars are expensive compared to conventional cars, whether you buy a new or used vehicle. Even hybrid electric cars are costly due to the limited supply and high manufacturing costs. Charging inconveniences Electric cars use batteries that need charging regularly. Since most electric vehicles have shorter ranges, you may have to top up the charge on the road before continuing with your trip. Sometimes, finding a charging station along the road is challenging. If you are lucky to find one, you also have to charge the car for over an hour to perform optimally. Slow Electric vehicles have high torque, but they are slow compared to conventional cars. The instant acceleration doesn’t make them faster. Cost comparison of electric and petrol cars Are electric cars better than petrol cars? For most people, the decision depends on the cost of running and maintaining the vehicles. An electric car is more affordable to service and maintain than a petrol car. However, the initial high price of electric vehicles is a major limitation for many car buyers. If you compare the total ownership costs in electric and petrol cars, the savings from electric vehicles are noticeable in the long run. For instance, if we compare the Seat Leon Estate 1.5 TSI and MG5 Estate EV, the cost of running the Seat Leon outweighs the initial purchase cost of the MG5 EV. When comparing the costs of petrol and electric cars, you factor in the cost per mile, servicing and road taxes. You will notice that the road taxes are heightened for petrol cars, especially in cities with low emission zones. While the initial prices of electric cars are high, the government grants provide huge savings. Factors that favour EVs Here are some factors that would make an electric car suitable for you: Fuel costs Electric vehicles use electricity, and you don’t have to use petrol at the pump. Electricity is more affordable per mile compared to petrol, which reduces the running costs of your car. Components like regenerative braking also improve the battery range by converting kinetic energy during braking to improve energy efficiency. Low maintenance costs You can avoid frequent car servicing with an electric car. The few mechanical components reduce the maintenance and servicing intervals of electric vehicles. The reduced maintenance and running costs lower the overall ownership cost compared to the initial purchase price of an electric car. Unique driving experience Electric cars offer an engaging driving experience since they are silent on the road. With the quiet operation and simple driving controls, you will enjoy a unique driving experience. Some have technological features to assist with driving in traffic and parking, which improves the overall experience. Factors that favour petrol cars Some factors that favour the purchase of petrol-powered cars include: Price The initial price of petrol cars is lower than electric vehicles. Conventional cars are the perfect choice if you are on a budget since you can find affordable new and second-hand options. It is difficult to find an affordable electric vehicle due to the limited supply. Variety of options Electric vehicles are new to the mainstream market, and you will have limited car options compared to petrol cars with centuries of history. Whether you want large SUVs or small hatchbacks, you will find petrol cars from diverse brands that suit your needs. Performance Internal combustion engines are responsive and provide superior performance. If you want a powerful car, you can find petrol vehicles with advanced technology and large engine capacities. Petrol cars also provide a good driving experience. A vast network of service centres Whether you want servicing or new spare parts, you can easily find them for your petrol cars. Conventional vehicles also have multiple servicing centres around the country, and you can repair your car anywhere. Conclusion Electric and petrol cars have benefits and downsides. Hence, you have to weigh your options and needs when choosing the ideal vehicle. For instance, electric cars are ideal if you reside in the city because of the many public charging stations. You have to buy a petrol car for areas with minimal infrastructure for electric cars.

Electric vehicles are perfect for people who fancy cutting-edge designs and eco-friendly options. You can save money at the pump since you don't have to fuel your vehicle. Quiet rides are great, but there is always a major concern when using electric cars: the charging time. So, how long does it take to charge an electric car? Unfortunately, recharging an electric vehicle isn't the same as filling up a gas tank. After depleting the charge, moving the vehicle takes more than a few minutes. The duration taken to charge an electric car depends on the size of the battery and the power source. Let's explore the factors that affect the charging time and charger options to improve speed. What factors affect charging speed? Battery size Like in petrol-powered cars, where the tank determines the fuel you can fill up, the battery size dictates the energy a car can hold. The battery capacity is usually measured in kilowatt-hours, and a large battery needs more charging time since it can hold higher energy. Therefore, electric vehicles like the Tesla Model S with a 75 kWh battery capacity will take longer to charge at the same power output than models with a 40 kWh capacity. State of the battery Is the battery empty, or are you topping up? Electric cars have a state of charge (SoC) in place of the fuel gauge in petrol-powered cars. The state of charge helps you determine the amount of charge the car uses between full and empty. When charging from 1%, you need a few hours to get the battery to an optimal level. If you are topping up above 80%, the charging time is also more. Remember, electric cars use lithium-ion batteries. The batteries degrade faster when you drain them to zero and fully recharge. Fortunately, electric car manufacturers use technology to prevent your EV from draining below 20% or charging above 80%. It will take less time to top up your car from 20% than a drained battery. Maximum charge rate of the battery Sometimes, having a small vehicle doesn't guarantee fast charging since battery charging capacities differ. For instance, some large batteries store more power and handle higher inputs, speeding up the charging time. The Tesla Model 3 has a 250 kW fast-charging capacity, which means it charges faster than the Peugeot e-208 with a 50 kW fast-charging capacity. Even if the Tesla is equipped with a larger battery, you can recharge it faster than the Peugeot e-208. Power source What is the highest charging rate of your power sources? If you use a charging station with low power output, it takes a couple of hours to recharge the EV to optimal functioning. Even when your vehicle's battery has a high input, the charging station's power affects the time. A charging station or power source with high output can charge your car more quickly. Environmental factors Weather conditions can also affect the speed of charging your car battery. When temperatures are too high or low, it will interfere with the charging time. Most electric vehicle batteries operate at temperatures between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. When temperatures drop due to cold weather, the battery management system protects the battery by lowering the power input and output. It affects the vehicle's efficiency and increases the charging time. Types of electric chargers The type of charger affects the charging time since it influences the power output from the power source. The different types of electric vehicle chargers include: Slow charging Slow charging is Level 1, which slowly recharges the car's battery due to the low output below 7 kW. The chargers usually produce an output of 3 kW or 5 kW. Hence, the car takes several hours to a few days to fully recharge. Slow chargers are often referred to as trickle chargers, and they are comparable to using main sockets with a special adapter or plugging your car into the wall like a phone. For instance, using a 3 kW charger to recharge your 40 kWh battery from 20% to 80% takes around 9 hours, while an 82 kWh battery takes over 18 hours to reach the same capacity. Charging from 1% to 100% would take over 15 hours for the 40 kWh battery and over 30 hours for the 82 kWh battery. Slow chargers are rarely found at public charging stations. However, you can get one installed in your home. If you run minimal errands during the day, you can charge the car overnight. Fast charging Fast chargers are faster than slow chargers, but they are slow enough to limit battery degradation. You get a healthy compromise of maximising the lifespan of your battery while ensuring your car is topped up relatively fast and ready to go. Fast charging is quite popular for domestic charging since the power output is 7 kW or 22 kW. You can install a dedicated domestic Wallbox with a 7 kW output at home. It halves the charging time compared to slow chargers. For instance, you can recharge your 40 kW to 100% in six hours and less than four hours to recharge from 20% to 80%. The 22 kW is mostly for public charging stations since they require a three-phase electricity supply, making them expensive to install in domestic properties. Rapid charging Rapid charging is the fastest way of charging electric cars and can deliver significant energy injection within 20 minutes. However, it isn't advisable to indulge regularly. Lithium batteries are fickle and degrade faster with exposure to high voltage. Rapid charging generates excess heat that slowly damages the battery, affecting its ability to hold power. Most people use rapid charging when it is necessary. For instance, if you are mid-trip and need to recharge, your 40 kWh battery takes 30 minutes from 20% to 80%, while the 82 kWh takes under an hour. Rapid chargers usually have an output of between 50 kW and 350 kW. Hence, they are only found in dedicated charging hubs and motorway service stations. Since they use direct current, your car should be compatible with rapid charging. Some electric car models can handle up to 100 kW DC charging, while others, like the Kia EV6, accept a DC charge of up to 200 kW. The Tesla Model 3 and Model S can charge at 250 kW. What is top-up charging? Most motorists keep their cars plugged in at car parks or homes to avoid running out of power on the road. Instead of waiting for the battery to deplete before recharging, you can plug it into a public charger while shopping or enjoying a meal. When you build a habit of top-up charging every time you park, you won't notice the time it takes to recharge your car. Besides, topping up increases the miles you can cover, depending on the charging time. When you top up at a fast-charging public station at 22 kW, you add 90 miles to your range for every charge hour, while 7 kW fast chargers add 30 miles. Rapid charging stations can increase your range to 90 miles in 30 minutes. Most manufacturers discourage topping up during hot weather since the combined heat from the higher temperatures and charging damages the internal resistance systems of your electric car. Your electric car charging options Home If you charge your electric car overnight, consider installing a charging point or Wallbox. You can choose between a slow charger or a fast charger, depending on the battery size of your electric car. Most people get the 7 kW fast charger since it can add between 10 and 30 miles per hour. When looking for a home charging point, you should research your local grid to ensure it can withstand the power output. You can also get the 22 kW fast charger for your home. Some manufacturers offer a free Wallbox home charge station, but you usually have to pay for installation. You can also utilise the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme, which covers 75% of the installation cost or a maximum of £350. You can also use a three-pin plug socket, but charging is slow. Public charging stations Nowadays, you can find public charging stations to top up during the day. Most service stations have charging points with varied outputs. Carparks and supermarkets have also introduced public charging stations. While some charging points are free, some are dedicated to specific car models or require a pay-as-you-go payment. Workplaces are also introducing charging stations by taking advantage of government grants for the Workplace Charging Scheme. When travelling to a new area, use your phone to find nearby charging networks. How long will it take to charge an electric car in the future? Electric car manufacturers are working hard to minimise the shortcomings of EVs. With advancements in technology, electric car charging will be faster without damaging the batteries. For instance, some manufacturers are already working on new lithium-ion materials and all-solid-state batteries to improve EVs' stability, affordability and safety. Recharging an EV in under 20 minutes could be possible without damaging the battery in the future. A recently designed lithium-ion battery can recharge to half-capacity in three minutes without significantly degrading. Hence, many people are looking forward to super-fast charging.

The evolution from combustion engines to electric cars has transformed the transportation industry. The introduction of electric vehicles has brought many benefits to car owners and the environment. Climate change and sustainability have been hot topics in the past decade, and governments are looking for ways to reduce greenhouse emissions and protect the environment. Electric cars use batteries to power the vehicles. Hence, drivers don't need to use petrol or diesel. The engines also generate minimal pollutants, making them clean transport options. If you're wondering how electric cars help the environment, read on to learn how. UK’s net-zero target Research shows that road transport accounts for half of the air pollution in major cities like London. The UK government introduced a net-zero strategy that focuses on transitioning to green technology and clean energy to reduce carbon emissions. The strategy covers issues such as ending reliance on natural gas, the creation of nuclear power stations and encouraging the transition to electric vehicles. Through the strategy, the government introduced a zero-emission vehicle mandate that will set targets for car manufacturers to produce zero-emission cars from 2024. The ban on the sale of petrol and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035 has also increased the use of zero-emission vehicles. The government also targets to reduce carbon emissions to zero by 2050, and electric cars will play a huge role in transitioning to clean energy sources. How does electric car production affect the environment? It's no secret that the electric car manufacturing processes use a lot of energy. However, electric vehicles are still the greener option since they promote the reduction of emissions over a car's lifetime. Air pollution during the creation of electric vehicle batteries is higher than in conventional cars. The manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries results in high carbon footprints. Studies show that battery manufacture results in a third of the lifetime CO2 emission from electric cars. Fortunately, car manufacturers are developing sustainable ways to reduce carbon emissions. Today's electric vehicles have a lower carbon footprint than the first batteries. That's because battery manufacturers are using renewable energy sources during production. Environmental benefits of electric vehicles Improved air quality Traditional vehicle engines produce exhaust fumes from the internal combustion of petrol or diesel to generate energy. The exhaust gases consist of carbon and other pollutants. When you drive a diesel or petrol car on the road, your car emits gases, polluting the environment. By contrast, electric vehicles use batteries, which don't produce exhaust. Hence, the cars are emission-free, and you can recharge them when the power is depleted without contributing to air pollution. Since electric vehicles don't run on fossil fuels or produce harmful pollutants, they can reduce pollution in urban areas. The switch to electric cars contributes to a greener and cleaner air in cities. Reduced pollution lowers the healthcare costs you incur from a respiratory problem caused by poor air quality. It also increases life expectancy. Lower CO2 emissions According to European Energy Agency research, carbon emissions from electric vehicles are between 17% and 30% lower than from diesel motors or petrol-powered cars. Most of the carbon emissions from EVs are from electricity generation using fossil fuels and battery manufacturing. Emissions are usually produced before you drive the vehicle but are reduced over its lifetime since the car generates zero emissions on the road. Internal combustion engine vehicles produce CO2 whenever the engine is on, which results in a massive carbon footprint. Many electric car manufacturers are looking for ways to further lower carbon emissions. For instance, you can find low carbon electricity as manufacturers introduce charging points that use renewable energy. Some people also use solar energy to recharge electric cars at home, minimising the environmental impact of EVs. Reduced demand for fossil fuels The leading cause of climate change and global warming is using fossil fuels. That means governments need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. A quick way to transition from fossil fuel dependence is by introducing other clean energy sources. Electric vehicles play a crucial role in minimising the demand for fossil fuels. When you drive an electric car, you don't depend on fossil fuel energy, unlike internal combustion engines that rely on oil to power the vehicles. Reduced noise pollution Noise pollution impacts the quality of life in cities and urban centres. Traffic noise is a significant contributor to noise pollution. While many people consider noise pollution a mere nuisance, too much noise has adverse emotional and health effects. The internal combustion engine vibrates when driving a petrol or diesel-powered car, and the moving parts produce noise. Electric vehicles neutralise noise pollution by producing minimal noise on the road. Electric cars don't have mechanical valves, fans and gears that produce noise. Their motors produce minimal vibrations, making your rides around the city quiet. Supports using renewable energy Electric vehicles save the environment by lowering your carbon footprint. The invention of electric vehicles has led to the adoption of renewable energy in various production stages to lower the carbon footprint further. Renewable energy has experienced record levels of growth since the invention of electric vehicles. Inventions are underway to increase the use of renewable energy for charging electric cars and during production. Many people install solar energy to charge their electric cars at home, and some charging stations use green energy. Electricity suppliers also invent ways to generate greener energy for charging cars, like nuclear power stations. Use of eco-friendly materials The first electric vehicles faced a major challenge due to the heavy electric batteries. The heavy batteries placed at the bottom of the car reduce their functionality. Hence, electric car manufacturers have been exploring lightweight materials that improve the performance of EVs. The use of eco-friendly materials in batteries and the cars' structure has reduced the weight of electric vehicles significantly. Lightweight materials are often eco-friendly and lower the carbon footprint of EVs. Most EV manufacturers have adopted organic and recycled materials in EV production since they are lightweight, strong and durable. More inventions involving improved eco-friendly materials to create lighter and more efficient vehicles are coming up. For instance, electric cars' framework is made from aluminium, which is strong, lightweight and recyclable. The steering wheels and seat frames are made from fabricated magnesium, while the composite body is made from recyclable and impact-resistant composite plastic. Weight reduction isn't the only advantage of recycled materials. The materials are sustainable and kind to the environment compared to the metals and plastics used in other cars. Some electric car manufacturers also add solar glasses to the windshield to prevent overheating in high temperatures. Are hybrid electric cars good for the environment? Plug-in hybrid electric cars have an electric motor and a traditional fuel engine. Hence, they produce emissions when you use petrol or diesel. While they provide similar environmental benefits as purely electric cars, their green credentials depend on the driving range of the electric battery and the power source used to charge the car. If you use the battery on your rides, you are making a significant contribution to minimising carbon emissions. Choosing renewable energy sources for charging your hybrid electric cars also reduces the carbon footprint. Plug-in hybrids also conserve energy sources since you don't have to plug in every time to recharge the battery. The regenerative braking system changes kinetic energy into electrical energy that recharges the battery during braking. Should you buy an eco-friendly car? If you want to play your part in protecting the environment, you should consider green cars. Whether you go for hybrids or pure electric cars, you will contribute to reducing carbon emissions on the road. Your major concern when choosing an EV to take home should be the level of carbon emissions. Hybrids have emissions, but electric cars are zero-emission vehicles. Government grants and tax incentives also make eco-friendly vehicles a welcome idea. You enjoy grants for buying new electric cars and are exempted from various taxes for using petrol and diesel in urban centres. There is also low or non-existent fuel consumption, which saves you a lot of money in the long run. Eco-friendly cars are gaining popularity, and if you want to upgrade to the latest models, you can get a favourable resale value. Buying new cars also comes with various incentives like warranties, and some car manufacturers provide a free Wallbox for home charging. Conclusion Electric cars don't just help the environment. They speed up innovations in renewable energy and promote the growth of green transportation and environmental-friendly initiatives. For instance, driving electric cars has spurred innovations in energy storage, which increases the use of renewable energy globally. Electric vehicles achieve practical carbon savings by reducing emissions on the roads. More environmental benefits will be achieved with technological advancements in sourcing energy from electrical sources and building greener batteries. Electric vehicles are also efficient and can use eco-friendly materials without diminishing their performance levels, making them the best green alternative.

Like any other car class, 7-seater people carriers cover a wide range of different models. Some of the best 7-seater cars on the second-hand market are SUVs, while others are not. These vehicles are mostly suited to in-town and city traffic driving. Of course, what they all have in common is that they can accommodate six passengers and the driver, making them ideal for transporting family members, colleagues and friends. As a result, deciding on the best 7-seater car to buy second-hand will mean different things to different people. Assuming that you are after a reliable 7-seater vehicle with the ability to accommodate at least six passengers who will mostly or always be adults, the following cars are likely to be among the best options to pick from in the Irish used vehicle market today. Citroen Grand C4 Kia Sorento Hyundai Santa Fe VW Caravelle Ford Galaxy Peugeot 5008 Citroen Grand C4 In many ways, Citroen has been setting the standards among designs for people carriers for quite some time, at least in Europe. The Grand C4 is one of the best 7-seaters available on the second-hand market in Ireland today for its sheer practicality. Firstly, the car doesn't feel cramped even when there are seven grown-ups inside it. There is plenty of legroom in the back, and the car even has leg supports for added comfort on longer journeys. From a driver's perspective, there is plenty to enjoy, too. It has a lot of French technology built into the console to play with. Although the car might be a bit sluggish when it is fully laden, it rarely feels underpowered. However, given the asking price for many second-hand Grand C4s, what most people will like about this car is its sheer affordability. Kia Sorento Built with the same platform as the Hyundai Santa Fe, there isn't a great deal between the two models to set them apart from one another. They both make excellent choices for larger families who want to travel together. The Sorento is certainly a very versatile 7-seater. To begin with, you can benefit from the car's 40:20:40 split-folding seat system to accommodate luggage as well as people in various combinations. In fact, the Sorento will allow you to fold down all seven of its seats if wanted. Overall, the car feels functional to drive behind the wheel. For example, you can sit high up in the driver's seat, affording you an excellent view of the road ahead. This car has an ergonomically designed body, making it great to ride in and drive for longer distances without starting to feel too uncomfortable. Hyundai Santa Fe This five-door Santa Fe SUV is one of the top-selling 7-seater cars that the South Korean manufacturer has designed thus far. The third generation of the car came out in 2012, followed not long afterwards by the fourth in 2018. Both are readily available on the second-hand market these days. However, 7-seater versions of the Santa Fe have been produced since 2007. Of course, not many older Santa Fe models are available to buy second-hand today. The fourth-generation Santa Fes are available as automatics and as manuals. You can also get them with plug-in hybrid technology. The PHEV version of the people carrier carries a 13.8 kWh battery, while the mild hybrid variant has a smaller 1.49 kWh battery. One of the best things about the 7-seater Santa Fe is that both rows of seats in the back fold down flat. That means you can effectively turn it into a van if wanted. VW Caravelle With an iconic design that looks like the quintessential campervan from yesteryear, the more up-to-date Caravelle is a great choice for families that want a lot of legroom and the ability to transport lots of people and luggage at the same time. Yes, this 7-seater resembles a van more than any of the 7-seater cars on this list, but it still looks great and is small enough to be fine to drive in town centres and supermarket car parks alike. It is worth noting that not all Caravelles are 7-seaters, however, so make sure you check this before opting for a particular one on the second-hand market. Ford Galaxy Although Ford's Tourneo could easily make this list, the Galaxy is much more of a conventional car from a driving perspective. If you have ever driven a Mondeo or an S-Max, then the larger Galaxy will not feel that different. One of the good things about the Galaxy is that it is relatively cheap to insure, and it is nowhere near as expensive to buy as other models. What's more, many of its parts are common with other Ford cars, so it is inexpensive to service and keep in good condition, comparatively speaking. The rearmost seats are comfortable and don't feel like a squeeze to get into either. This 7-seater is a good choice if you have six adult passengers to accommodate on your travels. Peugeot 5008 For the price, the Peugeot 5008 offers a great deal of car for the money. The internal and external styling looks truly impressive, making this model an excellent choice if you want a 7-seater that can hold its own alongside more expensive saloons. Peugeot's i-Cockpit means that there is plenty of technology built into it, making the 5008 a fun car to drive. That said, it is a very practical choice, too. For example, you can remove the third row of seats from the 5008 in moments. Put them in the garage when you don't need them because refitting them is easy, too, as it needs no specialist tools. Even better, the fuel efficiency on offer is impressive, and the 5008 will hold its value if you choose to sell it later down the road over the next few years, so long as you don't thrash it or try to take it off-roading. This SUV is a road car through and through, unlike some of the 7-seaters available nowadays. Why buy a second-hand 7-seater car? Second-hand 7-seater cars tend to offer the best value for money when you need to transport lots of people around. Owning one may be more costly than buying a saloon, but you will only need one 7-seater for most drives. Plus, it is cheaper to invest in a people carrier and insure it than it is to buy two smaller cars instead. The next step up will mean driving a minibus, which is often much more costly. On the mainland, people buy 7-seater cars second-hand because of the following reasons: 7-seater cars are not that costly to run, even if you have no passengers with you, unlike larger vehicles. Second-hand 7-seater cars handle like conventional cars and don't require you to think about oversized parking spaces and so on when you are out and about. 7-seater people carriers are a very practical choice for larger families or for parents who drive their kids to school with friends, helping save time and money on daily school runs. Many 7-seater cars are ideal for camping trips and will tow a caravan or a trailer with ease. Lots of 7-seater people carriers have a rear set of seats that can be folded down or even removed, so you can still get a lot of boot space when you need it. You don't need a special driver's license to drive a 7-seater people carrier, unlike some larger commercial vehicles with additional seating. Insurance costs with a second-hand 7-seater car are often not that much higher than they would be for a used saloon or a comparably priced second-hand hatchback. Conclusion on Best 7 Seater Cars Second-hand 7-seater cars come in all shapes and sizes in Ireland's new and used car markets. You could opt for the prestigious BMW X7 and say that it is the best 7-seater SUV or people carrier to buy on the second-hand market quite easily. Alternatively, more affordable models like the Skoda Kodiaq or the Renault Grand Scenic, for instance, could count as being among the best second-hand 7-seater cars, especially when factoring in their practicality and price. As such, it really depends on what you want to get out of your 7-seater car. Therefore, before you buy one, make a list of what your priorities are and check that the car you are considering delivers in all these departments. Remember, too, that your priorities can change. You might need more legroom in the back seats down the road, for example, as your children start to grow. Also, it is always worth checking the Euro NCAP safety rating of people carriers because with this class of car, in particular, assessments can differ greatly from model to model.