Search Results

Batteries keep the engine ticking over by providing power. Unfortunately, they have a finite lifespan and may need a replacement. So, how long do car batteries last? Whether you have replaced your battery or still using the original, it is important to understand its lifespan. Find out what to expect from your car battery and warning signs that indicate you need a replacement. Average battery lifespan Batteries are the heart of every vehicle. Unfortunately, they deteriorate until they can no longer start an engine. Most car batteries have an average life span of three to five years. During that period, they can hold their charge and are capable of recharging. Under normal conditions, a car battery can last up to four years. These conditions include protection from extreme temperatures, full charge cycles and a consistent charging system. Unfortunately, normal conditions are impossible to maintain in the real world. Aside from the conditions above, the chemical composition also affects the lifespan of a car battery. For instance, lead-acid batteries last 3-5 years since many factors can interfere with the chemical composition. Vibrations from cruising a rough or a poorly secured battery can damage the battery plates. The chemical reaction speeds up in extreme temperatures, shortening the battery's lifespan. Nowadays, some cars use dry cell lead-acid batteries to last up to seven years. Electric vehicles rely on lithium-ion batteries with a long lifespan of 10 to 20 years, while hybrid cars use Nickel-metal hydride that lasts eight years. What causes a car battery to die? Car batteries are designed to provide a high-amperage current and power to start a car and maintain a charge when the car is running. Some of the reasons that cause car batteries to die include: Slow discharging Vehicles usually have an alternator that maintains 12.6 volts when running. When the battery is unattended, it slowly discharges from the 12.6 volts. Unfortunately, a car battery shouldn't discharge below its starting cycle. Slow discharge occurs when you leave the car battery in a vehicle that hasn't been started for a long time. The car's parasitic drain steals the voltage, and you have to jumpstart, which means the alternator is charging a dead battery. Restarting a battery that has lost its charge reduces its recharging ability over time. Slow discharging often occurs in low temperatures since the battery loses its ability to maintain a charge and needs more amperage to start. Structural failure Vehicle batteries are made of lead grids submersed in electrolytes like sulphuric acid. The batteries are usually bumped around during car movements. Not to mention rapid temperature changes during freezing winters and hot summers that affect temperatures in the engine compartments. After some time, the wear and tear can lead to structural failure. The battery's failure can also be due to the loss of electrolytes, exposing the cells to air. Alternator failure The alternator maintains the battery's starting charge at 12.6 volts for optimal performance and recharging. When the alternator fails, it can overcharge the battery, causing leakage of electrolytes or boiling over, which eventually destroys the battery. When the opposite happens, the alternator stops charging the battery. The vehicle's ignition system runs off the battery, leading to a quick drain. When the alternator isn't charging the battery, it triggers a batter light, and if you resolve the alternator issues, you can save the battery. Unfortunately, the battery and alternator usually fail simultaneously as the alternator due to rapid discharge, making it hard to discover the problem on time. What factors affect a car battery's life span? Initial battery build quality and age The quality of battery components determines the duration of its life span. If you pick a poor quality battery, the inferior manufacturing process and components lead to problems within a short time. Battery age also affects the lifespan. The age doesn't refer to the duration it has been in the vehicle but the manufacturing time. How long has the battery been on the shelf? Since a car battery ages when sitting idle on a store shelf, you should ensure that the manufacturing date isn't a few years back. Battery positioning and installation Did you know that sometimes batteries aren't found in the bonnet? Some car manufacturers place the battery in the boot to balance weight distribution. Moving the battery to a cooler environment or away from the engine bay also improves its life. Positioning it in the boot is becoming popular since it is easy to access and away from the engine's heat. Battery installation also affects the lifespan since it determines the vibrations. Vehicle movements often create vibrations that can cause battery breakdown. Most car manufacturers have a battery hold-down system to reduce vibrations. Without the hardware, you will have a dead battery in no time. Driving habits Batteries self-discharge slowly when unused. Hence, you should avoid leaving your battery stationary for long periods. If your car has many onboard electronics, the battery will drain faster to support the electronics. You need to ensure the car charges frequently. This can be achieved with mid-range and long trips. If you drive short distances of less than 10 minutes in a week, you could be straining the battery since it drains faster than the recharge. Starting a vehicle stresses the battery since it does 100% of the work. If you start the car and take a short trip, the alternator will not have enough time to recharge it. You should make a few long trips weekly to charge your battery and improve its lifespan. Temperature While high-temperature aids in the chemical reaction that generates electricity, it accelerates battery degradation. Temperatures also cause battery problems. It is easier to start a car in warm weather than cold weather. Extremely hot temperatures can lead to evaporation of battery fluid and damage to internal cells. That's why batteries last three years in hot regions, while they can stay for five years in cold areas. Signs that your car battery may need a replacement When your battery is older than three years, you must pay more attention. Although you won't always know that a problem is brewing in your battery, some signs can help you discover the problem early. Check for the following signs: Signs of corrosion or leakage While corrosion on car battery terminals is common with ageing batteries, it also indicates terminal failure or problems with the charging system. You should also check for signs of acid leakage. It indicates over-charging or structural failure. Sudden click, but no start When you turn the key and get a buzzing or click, chances are your battery is dead. While you can jumpstart the vehicle and continue using it, the battery can fail at any time. You need to charge the battery or get it tested. If the battery is healthy, there's likely a hidden element drawing too much power. Battery-related dashboard lights are on When the dashboard lights are on, you should test the battery for failure. It may also indicate problems with the alternator that require a mechanic. Dim headlights and electrical problems can also indicate battery problems. Electronics and the starter rely on the battery to function properly. A weak battery will struggle to power your electronics, and the headlights will be dim. Slow starting If the engine takes longer to spark to life, it is a sign of trouble. You'll be lucky to get a few cranks before the battery dies. Over time, you will notice deviations in cranking speed, but the problem is accentuated when the battery fails. Unpleasant smell Sulphuric acid usually smells like rotten eggs. If your car has such an unpleasant smell, it shows signs of leakage and battery damage. Your battery needs to be checked for internal structural failure or overcharging. Tips to get the most out of your car battery 1. Use a maintainer Since a slow discharge can kill a good battery, you need a maintainer between long engine starts. The maintainer keeps an on-demand, low-amperage charge to prevent slow discharge in batteries. 2. Remove corrosion You should periodically check for corrosion on the battery terminals. Keeping the posts and clamps clean using battery corrosion washers is crucial. You can also prevent corrosion using dielectric grease. 3. Do not remove the heat blankets Cars usually have heat blankets or protective shields around batteries. Over time, the shields are removed or discarded. The blankets protect the batteries from the hot engine, and removing them can reduce the battery's lifespan. 4. Don’t power electronics for long Your vehicle's battery is for starting the car, not powering electronic components. Car batteries aren't suited for frequent discharge and recharge, and electronics drain power faster. If you like having the stereo on, consider having an auxiliary battery. 5. Test your battery regularly During car servicing or maintenance, ensure your battery is tested. Some problems can be fixed to improve the lifespan of your battery, Conclusion While a car battery doesn't last forever, you can maximise its life. How long your battery lasts relies on the measures you put in place to care for your car. Pay attention to signs of failure and keep your battery charged to prolong its life.

If you are considering buying a TSI (meaning a car with the letters TSi following its model name), then it may not have even occurred to you what these three letters actually mean. The fact is, many carmakers use quite complex terminology whether they are addressing something to do with the engine, the chassis design or the interior specifications and trim levels of their products these days. As such, you might not even think twice about a few seemingly random letters following the make and model of your intended purchase. This would be a mistake with TSI, however, since cars that are TSIs have some specific qualities that it is worth knowing about. Read on to find out more about TSI's meaning. To begin with, TSI stands for turbocharged stratified injected, a term that relates to the type of engine the car in question has been fitted with. You will see both TSI – all capitals – and TSi both in use. However, these mean the same thing and are just different ways that the term turbocharged stratified injected is shortened depending on the context you read it in. In other words, TSI's meaning doesn't change just because you see a lower case I at the end of the abbreviated form. An engine that is a TSI will have been designed to be more lightweight than other versions of the same capacity, often with a higher power and more fuel-efficient construction than a four-cylinder traditional combustion engine could offer. As a driver, one of the things you should know about owning a car with a TSI engine is that it will often offer more low-end torque and power than you'd get with a standard turbocharged engine. Many car designers and motoring journalists have noted that such four-cylinder engine designs have historically struggled with lower-end torque. By utilising a greater level of pressurised fuel injection and a smaller displacement volume, TSI engines can often perform better than larger engines. In turn, this means drivers can get more power for a more fuel-efficient car. What's more, they come with a high-tech inter-cooling system and some other elements of intricate engineering to offer good long-term performance. If you are a motorist who wants more out of their engine but doesn't want something that will guzzle fuel at an alarming rate, then seeking out a TSI car may well be among the best options. Which car manufacturers use the term TSI? Only one car manufacturing group has TSI technology today. To be clear, other carmakers have similar systems that are designed to do the same or a similar job as TSIs. However, it is only Volkswagen Group that uses the specific term TSI for a turbocharged stratified injected engine. As such, the VW Passat, Tiguan and Atlas are all models that can be found bearing the TSI badge. Many editions of the Golf can also be found with the letters TSI following its name. Even some smaller cars made by VW, such as the Polo, for example, come with TSI variants. Of course, Volkswagen Group does not just comprise VW vehicles nowadays. As such, you will also find many Seat cars on the road bearing the TSI emblem, too. Aronas, Leons, Tarracos and Ibizas can all be TSIs, for instance. The same goes for Skoda. This car brand has been part of the VW Group for some time and various models it has made historically – as well as today – bear the all-important three letters TSI. Some of the Skoda models that have been made with TSI engines include the Kamiq, the Superb, the Scala and the Fabia. Many Octavias and Kodiaqs in Ireland will also be TSI variants. When it comes to Audi – also a part of the wider Volkswagen Group – the term TSI is also used. However, in the main, Audis with turbocharged stratified injected engines are not called TSIs. Confusingly, they are more often called TFSIs instead. The reason is that Audi production lines produce turbocharged fuel stratified injection engines. The extent to which this technology actually differs from standard VW TSI engines is open for debate. In many people's eyes, the two terms are nothing more than a bit of marketing with few, if any, tangible differences. It is also worth noting that VW Group owns Lamborghini, Bentley, Porsche and Ducati. The carmaker does not use the term TSI for any of the engines that are developed for those marques. However, Porsche does use TSI for another reason. In this sense, TSI stands for technical services information, something that has nothing whatsoever to do with turbocharged stratified injected engines. This can sometimes cause confusion, so it is worth knowing that the two brands use the term in very distinct ways from one another despite being part of the same group. Does TSI's meaning differ from TDI? Yes, it does. TSI relates to petrol-powered engines only. Perhaps confusingly, VW developed its TSI engine from much of the know-how it had developed from producing more powerful but less fuel-hungry diesel engines. Although both engine types are very different, the German carmaker was able to transfer some of the same design principles from its diesel turbocharged engines into turbocharged stratified injected petrol engines. By contrast, VW's term for diesel engines is turbocharged direct injection (or TDI). As such, both TSI's meaning and that of TDI are extremely close to one another. Moreover, neither abbreviation refers to the fuel type that the engine is running on. Incidentally, that's one reason that Audi petrol cars with this sort of engine technology use TFSI as an alternative. However, the important thing to take on board is that TSI refers to stratified injected petrol engines, whereas TDI refers to direct injection diesel engines. Both are turbocharged versions. For many, the D in TDI makes it easy to remember that these engines are for diesel cars while TSI (by simply using a different set of letters) must be for petrol-powered ones instead. That might not be the way VW envisioned the use of their engine shorthand when the technology was first launched, but it remains a useful way of distinguishing the two terms from one another. How does a TSI engine work? To begin with, the driving principle behind Volkswagen's TSI engine design is the system that allows for direct fuel injection. Like other manufacturers' direct fuel injection engines, TSI systems work by sucking a mixture of liquid and air into a cylinder. After this, the mixture is compressed by a piston and then it is ignited with a spark. As the corresponding piston is forced outwards, it produces power. Traditional fuel injection engines have their petrol and aid pre-mixed in a separate chamber called an intake manifold prior to them entering the cylinder. With a TSI engine, however, air and petrol are not pre-mixed. Instead, only air will enter through the intake manifold, but the petrol will be injected directly into the cylinder. This is the same with all direct injection engine technology, of course. What Volkswagen has successfully done is to combine the latest injector technology developed from its TDI system to shoot petrol directly into each of the engine's combustion chambers at even greater pressure than was possible before. As a result, fewer energy losses occur from pumping fuel which leads to a more efficiently running engine. Therefore, generally speaking, TSIs need less fuel for the power they produce and, as a consequence, emit less pollutants than other engine types. Even more crucially, perhaps, a TSI engine will combine direct injection with turbocharging, the mechanical process by which more air flowing into the engine's cylinder can be compressed thanks to the use of exhaust gases. In some cases, so-called twin-charging – whereby compound forces are captured and effectively reused in the engine – is also used in TSI engines, notably many of the 1.4-litre versions VW has thus far produced. Such engines are equipped with both a turbocharger plus a supercharger, and they work together in various combinations. Typically, a TSI supercharger would operate at lower revs, while a turbocharger would kick in as the engine's speed picks up. Finally, it is worth adding that one other important aspect of a TSI engine's design function is its intercooler. This has the purpose of reducing the temperature of the air entering any TSI engine from wherever it has been sourced. Simply put, when air intake is cooler, it allows for more of it to come in. The intercooler consequently lessens the possibility of back-firing or engine knocking. Although the cooling system may not be the most widely understood part of a TSI engine design, it is essential for it to continue to operate in the high-performance and fuel-efficient manner that motorists have become accustomed to in recent years.

If you buy a PHEV, meaning you want to do your bit for the environment, then it will be worth understanding exactly what is being referred to by this term. PHEV cars use a distinct type of technology, although different manufacturers put their own particular stamps on it. To be clear, PHEV stands for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Therefore, you can find PHEV vans, lorries, and even scooters nowadays, not just cars. In this guide to understanding what PHEV means, we'll be focussing on cars. That said, much of the plug-in technology you will learn about could equally be applied to other sorts of vehicles you'll find every day making their way on Irish roads. Read on to find out what is meant by the term PHEV. To begin with, it will be worth understanding what is meant by the term hybrid when it comes to cars and other types of transportation. Ever since the invention of the internal combustion engine, there have been two rival systems that most carmakers have used for their vehicles. The first is the petrol-powered engine, and the other is the diesel-powered motor. Although the mechanics involved with both of these sorts of technologies are different – this is something you can tell from just looking under the bonnet of either sort of car – they both rely on fossil fuels being burnt inside a chamber to force a piston outwards. In turn, this is converted into rotational force, something that can be used to turn the wheels of the vehicle concerned. When it comes to hybrid vehicles, an additional engine and fuel source is included alongside the aforementioned internal combustion engine. Although both diesel and petrol engines could, in theory, be supported by electrical motors, the truth is that hardly any car manufacturers combine hybrid technology with diesel-powered vehicles, which are, by and large, being phased out. The practical reality, therefore, is that any hybrid car you might consider buying today will have a petrol engine as well as an electrically powered motor inside. Given that such cars blend the two types of technology, often almost seamlessly, they are referred to as hybrids. This means they are a distinctly different category of cars compared to all-electric vehicles, for example. Does PHEV's meaning cover mild hybrid technology, too? Now you know what a hybrid car is – one that has a petrol engine and an electrical motor – it will be helpful to understand that there are two types of hybrid technologies on the market. One is called mild hybrid, or MHEV, while the other is the one we're interested in, PHEV. Many people use the term hybrid to refer to both types of technology, but you should note that PHEV's meaning is very different from MHEV even though they're both hybrids. The principal distinction between the two is that you plug a PHEV car into the mains to charge up its battery pack, but you don't ever do this with a mild hybrid. For clarity's sake, both MHEV and PHEV cars have batteries. They can run on their battery power without needing to use the petrol engine in most cases, and they can both be recharged. They can also both run on their petrol motor so long as there is sufficient fuel in the tank, of course. The important distinction to note, however, is that a PHEV car will often have a much bigger battery capacity. As such, you need to charge it up when it is not in use to keep it topped up. MHEVs tend to have smaller batteries that recharge when the car is braking or going downhill, capturing unused energy and storing it for later use. Although many PHEV cars also make use of such regenerative energy, the main difference is they also take power from the mains. Comparing PHEV and MHEV car technologies The main advantage of owning a PHEV compared to an MHEV is that you can travel further on all-electric power. Because the battery pack is larger, you get a longer range before the petrol engine needs to kick in and take over. When using both electrical power and petrol power, PHEVs offer superior fuel efficiency for the same reason. Basically, they keep going for longer journeys than MHEVs can manage. However, there is a cost involved when you charge a PHEV from the mains, something that is not the case with an MHEV car. However, since electricity is generally cheaper than petrol, this is not much of a setback. Furthermore, the greater use of electric power in a plug-in hybrid car compared to a mild hybrid one means that there will be fewer emissions for every mile driven, something that is especially important if you live and work in an urban environment, such as Dublin. How do PHEV cars actually work? Although it is important to understand the meaning of PHEV by comparing it to the other automotive technologies available today, getting to grips with how a plug-in hybrid car works is also a good idea. All PHEVs have a battery pack that is distributed around the car to keep the vehicle balanced. The elements of the pack are connected together with insulated wiring. When the car is running on petrol alone, there is no electrical draw placed on the batteries. Indeed, they may even be charged up by the aforementioned regenerative charging systems in use today. However, when the car is in electric mode, power will be sent to a second, electrical motor that will turn the car's wheels. Electric motors spin rather than use pistons, so they are theoretically more efficient than fossil-fuel-powered engines. What's more, electric motors don't need lots of gearing to work and produce high levels of torque even when the car is pulling away. As such, nearly all PHEV cars are automatics with no need for a conventional gearbox. Once the battery has run down to zero, the petrol engine can take over without needing to stop. In fact, most modern PHEVs made in the last few years will blend the electrical motor's power with that of the petrol engine. This way, you get the optimal performance level from each. In sports mode, both engines combine for the top output, while in eco-mode, the use of the petrol engine will be limited to get the best out of the sustainable electrical power. When you run out of battery power driving a PHEV car, you will need to top up. Most people who own a PHEV will invest in a wallbox. This means being able to charge the batteries of the car at a higher level of voltage than is usual. It means the batteries can be charged more efficiently and quicker, too. Although charging via a three-pin plug socket is perfectly possible, this will often take more than a few hours. When fully charged, a typical PHEV offers a range of about 30 miles purely on electrical power before the petrol engine would need to kick in. Would owning a PHEV mean I’m doing my bit for the environment? Put simply, yes: it would. This is why the market for new and used PHEV cars has expanded so much in recent years. There are several environmental benefits of driving a PHEV compared to a petrol or diesel-powered car. The first is that electricity is not necessarily made from fossil fuels. Much of it is generated from sustainable means, such as solar panels or wind turbines. As such, using electricity for transport is better than burning fossil fuels in a combustion engine. In addition, PHEVs produce a fraction of the emissions that fossil fuel-powered cars do. When they are running on their battery power alone, they produce none. In addition, there is another – often overlooked – environmental benefit of PHEVs and other electric vehicles. This is because when they're running on their electrical motor, they don't produce much noise either. Noise from car engines is a pollutant of sorts, so buying a PHEV will also be good for your neighbours as they won't hear you starting up in the mornings so often, if at all. Comparing PHEV cars to all-electric vehicles In many ways, the case for owning a PHEV makes itself until you compare a plug-in hybrid to an all-electric car. The latter has the longest range and doesn't rely on fossil fuels at all. However, despite the fact that there are more public charging stations for plug-in cars than there ever used to be, many motorists like the idea that a PHEV allows them to refuel either with petrol or electricity, thereby affording them more flexibility with their travel arrangements. Often PHEVs are a good bit more affordable than all-electric cars, too.

Electric cars serve similar functions as gasoline-powered vehicles, but the electric vehicle components are different if you open them up. Electric-powered cars are becoming popular with increasing fuel problems and sustainability issues. Electric vehicles are efficient and consume less energy, making them environmentally friendly. You can choose to switch to fully electric cars or hybrid options with components of both electric and fuel-powered cars. If you are wondering what the components of EVs are and their function, read on to learn more. Primary electric vehicle components Battery Electric cars run using rechargeable batteries. The electrical energy storage is available in direct current electricity used to drive the motor. The battery is the main electric vehicle component equivalent to a fuel tank in a gasoline-powered engine. Your driving range with an electric car depends on the battery capacity. Hence, when looking for an EV, it is crucial to check the battery capacity to avoid frequently stopping for a recharge. Apart from the capacity, the battery weight and size can also affect a vehicle's performance. For instance, a large and heavy battery takes away from the storage space and limits energy efficiency or fuel economy. You need a small, lightweight battery that can store as much electric energy as possible to optimise performance. Older electric vehicle models had low battery capacities and required frequent recharging. However, recent technology advancements have improved the battery capability. Recent EVs boast significant battery upgrades in terms of driving distance and density. The battery life has seen a significant improvement, and you don't need to replace it after a couple of years. Nowadays, a battery can last the entire vehicle cycle. Some of the common types of electric car batteries include: Lithium-ion batteries Most electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries due to their high power-to-weight ratio, high-temperature performance and energy efficiency. They hold more energy without needing extra weight, which is vital for electric cars that travel far on a single charge. The low self-discharge rate allows the battery to hold a full charge over time. Besides, lithium-ion battery parts are recyclable, perfect for environmentally conscious buyers. Most plug-in hybrid vehicles and fully electric cars rely on these batteries for better performance. Nickel-metal hydride batteries Nickel-metal hydride batteries are mostly used in hybrid vehicles, but they can also be useful in electric cars. Their main appeal is the longer life cycle than lithium-ion batteries. Unfortunately, they have a high self-discharging rate, so you need to recharge often. They are also quite expensive, and they generate heat. Lead-acid batteries Lead-acid batteries are affordable, safe and reliable, but they are only used in electric vehicles to supplement other battery loads. Their short life span and poor cold-temperature performance make them impossible to use in electric cars. While you can find high-power lead-acid batteries, they are used in commercial settings for secondary storage. Motor Electric vehicles rely on electricity saved in the batteries to generate power. The motor is the main electric vehicle component since it can convert electrical energy to kinetic energy, which gives the wheels the power to rotate. That is why EVs don't need an engine and transmission to generate power. Depending on your car's system voltage, the motor can be structured to use DC or AC. Most vehicles use AC motors since they are more affordable and lighter than their DC counterparts. AC motors also tend to suffer less mechanical wear and tear. The only downside is that the car will require a sophisticated motor controller. The advantages of using a motor instead of an engine make electric cars desirable. For instance, you won't hear the vibrations and noise associated with an engine. The rides are also quiet and comfortable. Besides, the small size of the powertrain means the car has lots of additional space like an expanded cabin and more legroom. The motor doesn't just generate kinetic energy; it's also an electric generator. It can convert kinetic energy generated by the car in neutral gear into electric energy. It also saves energy when your EV decelerates or culminates in a regenerative braking system. Battery management system The battery management system ensures battery cells in electric vehicles operate as a single entity. Most electric cars have as little as ten to as many as thousands of mini-cells to generate enough power to move the cars. All mini cells need to be in a similar condition to optimise battery performance and durability. The battery management system is built into the battery's body or incorporated into the electric power control unit. It oversees the cell's discharge or charge status. When a cell malfunctions, the battery management system can switch it off through a relay mechanism to prevent it from interfering with other systems. Motor controller The motor controller acts as a floodgate that ensures power distribution. A controller monitors the vehicle's performance, from the operator and motor to the battery and foot pedal. Using a microprocessor, the controller can limit or redirect current to improve mechanical performance or match the operator's driving style. Nowadays, you can find refined controllers that provide accurate speed and higher efficiency. In some electric vehicles, the power controller combines the inverter, low voltage converter and the control unit. The inverter converts DC to AC and supplies it to the motor to control its speed. It is also responsible for deceleration and acceleration, maximising the vehicle's drivability. On the other hand, the low voltage DC-DC converter generates low voltage power that electronic systems use. This is necessary since the electronic systems need to be converted to DC to make them useful. Reducer The reducer performs a crucial role in conveying the motor's power to the wheels. However, the RPM from the motor is higher than that of a combustion engine. The reducer decreases the RPM to appropriate levels to match the driving conditions. Reducing the RPM allows the EV powertrain to provide higher torque. Battery heating system The battery heater exists to maintain an ideal temperature range to prevent seasonal performance decreases. Usually, the battery decreases in charging capacity and speed at lower temperatures. The heating system also functions during charging to ensure charge efficiency and maintain maximum driving distance. Classification of electric cars based on the components Electric cars are available in three types depending on the degree of electricity used as the energy sources. Battery electric vehicles A battery-electric vehicle is all-electric and uses rechargeable batteries to power the motor. It doesn't have a combustion engine and relies on electricity stored in the high-capacity battery packs to power all the electronics on board and move the vehicle. When the battery is depleted, you can charge it with an external power source. Electric vehicles don't emit any exhaust fumes and don't require clutches, gears and spark plugs. Fully electric cars have the components mentioned above and use them to operate smoothly. Some of the advantages of battery-powered electric vehicles are environmental sustainability and better rides. The minimal noise and vibrations make driving them more comfortable. Fuel-cell electric vehicles Like battery-powered electric vehicles, they use electricity to power the motor. The main difference is using fuel cells from hydrogen to power a vehicle instead of drawing electricity from a battery only. Fuel cells are useful in powering vehicles for special applications. Most people use them in an indoor application that requires clean emissions. Few manufacturers have released hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles like Toyota and Hyundai. Fuel electric vehicles are cleaner than battery-electric cars since they have zero carbon emissions. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles The extended-range electric vehicles are powered by fuel and electricity. The electric part of the vehicles can be recharged by plugging into an external source or regenerative braking. Some of the electric components in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) include a motor, electronic unit controller, traction battery packs, auxiliary battery, charge port and a DC-DC converter. The components support electrical functions like powering the motor and regenerating power from braking. A PHEV also has an exhaust system, fuel tank and internal combustion engine that the car switches to when the electric power is depleted. Hybrid electric vehicles Like PHEVs, hybrid cars are powered by electricity and petrol. Unlike the PHEVs, its electric energy is generated through a regenerative braking system that recharges the battery. The electric motor slows down the car during the regeneration and covers some of the energy from the heating to generate electricity. The car usually starts off using an electric motor before gasoline cuts in as the car accelerates. The addition of an electric motor ensures the best fuel economy for driving in different conditions. Conclusion Electric vehicles are increasingly becoming part of modern life. The components bring tremendous fuel economy, a smooth driving feel and eco-friendliness that appeal to many consumers. Understanding electric vehicle components helps you choose the best electric vehicle for your needs.

With the promise of better fuel economy and comfort, hybrid cars are becoming more popular among vehicle buyers. Hybrid cars provide appealing tech features and fuel efficiency. Whether you go for a mild, plug-in or standard hybrid form, you will enjoy low fuel economy and tax bills. Hybrids are the best vehicles for urban-based drivers with low mileage since the costs for running a conventional petrol hybrid are lower than petrol or diesel cars. A diesel hybrid will make more financial sense if you rack up thousands of miles annually. While plug-in hybrids are costly, they have more benefits. For instance, you can travel shorter distances on purely electric power. They are also zero-emission commuters that can cover longer distances with an acceptable fuel economy. If you want to take a step towards a lower carbon footprint, here are the best hybrid cars to consider: Kia Niro Toyota Prius Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Toyota Corolla Hybrid Mercedes C300 Renault Captur Skoda Octavia Toyota Yaris Lexus NX Hybrid BMW 330e Kia Niro Kia Niro is a cleverly packaged SUV car that shines in its role as a family car. You will enjoy plush rides, and the build quality stands the test of time. Kia Niro is among the best hybrid cars available in two versions; an expensive plug-in with a significant electric range and a standard hybrid with a small electric motor and petrol engine. Unlike hybrid conversions of combustion-engine cars, Kia Niro was designed with an electrified model. The electric motor and battery system were integrated into the design and didn't rob the interior space. The total power output for the vehicle is 139bhp, and the acceleration from 0-62mph takes 11.1 seconds. Despite using a continuously variable transmission (CVT), Kia Niro has a dual-clutch automatic that minimises the sluggish feel. The plug-in hybrid variation has a large battery that can go up to 30 miles of all-electric driving. Toyota Prius Toyota Prius was among the first commercially produced hybrid vehicles. The most recent generation comes with a 1.8L engine with 121hp when combined with an electric motor. It comes with an optional four-wheel drive for the snowy climate. You will also find a suite of driver aids in the standard hybrid version, like a steering assist and emergency braking. You can find a Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid from the 2012-2015 models. The plug-in option offers a more appealing look and exceptional features. For instance, you can drive for a range of 34 miles for all-electric driving. Its 8.8kWh battery also takes around two and a half hours to charge from a wall box. Generally, you will enjoy a fuel economy of between 188 and 217mpg and 29g/km carbon emissions. Hyundai Tucson Are you looking for a practical SUV with adequate space for luggage? Hyundai Tucson should be on top of your list. The SUV can seat five people with adequate leg space for comfort. The regular hybrid version can take up to eight carry-on cases, while the plug-in hybrid takes seven due to the big battery. You can drive up to 38 miles on the battery. The low carbon emission and 50mpg fuel economy make it a favourable company and family car. Besides, you can choose from mild, regular and plug-in hybrid versions. The infotainment features in the Hyundai Tucson are impressive, from a large touchscreen with smart graphics to a straightforward menu that is easy to navigate. Apart from the built-in sat-nav, you also have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Toyota Corolla Hybrid Toyota Corolla is powered by a tried-and-tested petrol-electric hybrid technology and is available in 1.8L and 2L engine models. The British-built hatch shuffles between two power sources and can use the petrol engine to charge the battery. Since it uses a CVT, it has better drivetrain power. Toyota Corolla is available in saloon, hatch and Sports Tourer versions, suitable for business and family buyers. You can switch between the electric and petrol propulsion on the move. The 2L engine provides a smooth driving experience under acceleration and can get to 62mph in 8.1 seconds. The 1.8L engine has a slower acceleration, but it can keep up with the traffic. With an acceleration from 0-62mph taking 11.1 seconds, it is less adept at strenuous country drives and overtaking. Mercedes C300 e The long-standing executive saloon boasts high technology and comfort levels. The Mercedes C300 e model boosts the appeal of the C class series with huge potential savings for business and private users. The plug-in hybrid model provides a fuel economy of 404mpg and low carbon emissions of 14g/km. The pure-electric range also doubles other PHEVs at 62 miles. Users can enjoy fast-charging rates that take only 30 minutes to attain full charge. Renault Captur Renault Captur provides a visually appealing body with additional space for families. The plug-in hybrid option is only available in the S Edition and R.S. Line modes. The hybrid version of Renault Captur provides a 9.8kWh battery and uses an automatic gearbox. The petrol engine has 158bhp and a 1.6-litre capacity. A 30-mile pure-electric range is ideal for running errands or going to work and back. Its interior provides full LED lights and an impressive infotainment system with a seven-inch touch screen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Skoda Octavia Skoda Octavia provides two plug-in hybrids, but the Octavia iV is more comfortable and provides better cost savings. Its 1.4-litre petrol engine delivers 201bhp of torque, and an acceleration of 0-62mph takes 7.8 seconds. With a top speed of 136mph, the Skoda Octavia is a respectable car in its class. The government average shows that Skoda Octavia iV provides a fuel economy of 282mpg and carbon emissions ranging from 22 to 33g/km. You can also enjoy a full-electric range of 34 miles. Toyota Yaris Hybrid The latest Toyota Yaris has a 114bhp 1.5-litre petrol standard hybrid version. The self-charging option is perfect for urban driving but can hold its own on long drives. Toyota claims the Yaris hybrid model can function in electric mode for 80% of journeys around town at 80mph before the petrol engine takes over. Its exterior is impressive with a stylish build. You also get 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, a reversing camera, adaptive cruise control and a multi-function steering wheel. Despite the SUV-inspired appearance, the Yaris doesn't have a four-while-drive option. Lexus NX Hybrid Lexus NX gives you compelling reasons to go green with tempting company car tax rates and low running costs. The SUV provides an impressive interior with infotainment systems and spacious legroom. While the self-charging hybrid versions have small batteries, they can be charged with the petrol engine. The standard version appeals to anyone not ready to go electric since it cuts back on carbon emissions and fuel consumption. The plug-in version has a larger battery that delivers a 30 to 35-mile range with pure-electric driving. With the 2-5-litre petrol engine, its acceleration isn't too shabby, with an official 0-62mph at 8.7 seconds for the front-wheel-drive while the four-wheel-drive form is 7.7 seconds. BMW 330e Aside from the shallow boot, the BMW 330e is fun to drive, with a 35-mile range of zero-emission motoring. The high-quality saloon car is well-built, comfortable and practical for running errands or driving to work. It also boasts decent performance with a 2.0L engine and a power of 249bhp, but you can boost it to 288bhp in Sport mode. The automatic gearbox makes it easy to drive. What should you consider evaluating hybrid cars? Hybrid vehicles are quite popular due to the cost savings and flexibility in power sources. If you are hunting for the best hybrid cars, consider the following factors before purchasing: Price: Hybrid vehicles are relatively costly compared to gasoline-powered cars. Besides, plug-in hybrids are more expensive than regular hybrids. The main determiner of the price is the lithium-ion batteries in hybrid cars. The battery capacity and mile range determine the price. Some manufacturers offer lifelong coverage, and you don't need to replace them, but you pay more for the batteries. Design: The seating capacity ranges from two-seaters to eight-passenger SUVs. The designs also vary, and you can find midsize and compact designs. While hybrid cars are based on traditional models, some manufacturers develop unique designs. Performance: When looking for the best hybrid cars, ensure they have a higher mile per gallon (mpg). Higher mpg means they consume less fuel and are more efficient, while low mpg indicates bad fuel economy. You can also check the miles covered in pure-electric motoring and the horsepower if you love cruising at high speeds. Conclusions When looking for the best hybrid car, keep in mind the performance and range of electric motoring. A hybrid car gives you an alternative power source and is reliable when you run out of fuel. Besides, the variety of designs allows you to stick to traditional or modern versions.

Electric and hybrid vehicles hold value as prices increase by 19% year on year and 25% year on year respectively. DoneDeal’s Motor Price Index is the result of independent third Party economic analysis of DoneDeal’s data by economist Tom Gillespie. The pandemic, Brexit-induced shock to the market, and now, the war in Ukraine has had a staggering effect on prices in Ireland. The price of used cars continues to grow at unprecedented levels in 2022. In the first three months of 2022 used car prices have increased by 7.9% quarter on quarter, the tenth consecutive quarter of price increases observed in the DoneDeal dataset. In the past year price inflation has averaged at 2.1% per month, amounting to a 30% annual rate of inflation. The overall inflation figure now stands at 53% if we compare current prices to the onset of the pandemic in March 2020. In previous years the supply of used cars in Ireland was aided by the glut of Celtic Tiger year cars. However, this ageing cohort of cars are rapidly becoming obsolete, hitting the lower end of the market hardest, with an observed annual rate of inflation of 36.9% for low value cars. This contrasts with a more modest 20% rate of inflation in the upper end of the market for the same period. Supply chain disruptions caused by global chip shortages stalled the production of new cars, putting supply pressure on the used car market which was already experiencing increased demand as a result of the shift to remote work and reduction in public transport use. In Ireland, Brexit effectively halved (47,034 in 2021, 108,083 in 2019 representing a 56% decrease as per SIMI) the number of used cars being imported from the UK , our nearest accessible car market who share the same side of the road as us. Prices in 2020 and 2021 continued to rise on a monthly basis. In Ireland, Brexit effectively halved (47,034 in 2021, 108,083 in 2019 representing a 56% decrease as per SIMI) the number of used cars being imported from the UK , our nearest accessible car market who share the same side of the road as us. Prices in 2020 and 2021 continued to rise on a monthly basis. As the lockdowns from the pandemic began to subside at the start of 2022, a potential for supply re-adjustment was on the horizon. The war in Ukraine has cast doubt on the ability of the global supply chains to catch up in the short term as inflation is biting across most markets. Volkswagen usually produces 1,200 vehicles a day in their plants With the largest range of both NEW and USED Electric Vehicles available in Ireland, DoneDeal’s data set gives us a unique insight into the market dynamics for more fuel efficient vehicles. On DoneDeal, prices for used hybrid vehicles have increased by 25% year-on-year (19% for EV’s). This is a significant increase considering the fact that the average price for a hybrid vehicle is just over €24,000 in the DoneDeal dataset. The upper end of the market for petrol and diesel cars (cars above €18,000) has seen prices rise by 20% year-on-year. Petrol and diesel market share is down from 79% in 2020 to 53% in Q1 2022 for new vehicles (SIMI). The quarterly rate of inflation for cheaper cars (less than €4,000) is down to 9% from a high of 10.1% in the previous quarter, perhaps reflecting consumer shift away from older and more costly to run cars to more efficient new models. Methodology Over 90% of dealer car stock is on DoneDeal. DoneDeal is the largest car marketplace in Ireland, listing 9 out of 10 cars advertised online from car dealerships in Ireland. Economist Tom Gillespie analysed over 5m of DoneDeal’s vehicle listings from 2011-2022 using hedonic regression analysis to isolate pricing inflation associated with vehicles after controlling for mileage, age, and other vehicle attributes. DoneDeal has the largest range of Electric Vehicles for sale in Ireland. #Motors #electricvehicles

The team at Spirit Motor Group share some expert tips for doing it the smart way. Alan Moore, Managing Director at Spirit Motor Group shares his advice for anyone buying a brand new car. After a turbulent couple of years, all signs are pointing towards 2022 being a key year once again for car sales with demand potentially returning to pre-pandemic levels according to SIMI. As you might be aware, global production constraints are affecting new vehicle supply for some manufactures. This means that many are choosing to go with a used car, and while this might be a good option for some, we think now is the perfect time to buy the new car of your dreams. Choosing to buy a new car comes with some benefits over choosing a used model. New technologies, advancements in reducing emissions and other up to date features have made new vehicles an excellent choice. Read on for some tips on buying new… 1. Think about trading in: In many circumstances, now is a great time to buy a car because of fantastic trade-in values due to dealers being keen to refill their stock levels. So make sure to check with the dealership about the option to trade in against your new purchase. 2. Visit the dealership: Many car buyers and dealers have embraced digital, but this doesn’t mean that a physical visit should be ruled out. Speaking to a dealership team in-person can be great as they can help guide you on potential savings, offers and trade in options, as well as alternatives that you might not have considered. Newer technologies may also have been introduced since your last purchase, so the team will be able to ensure you’re up to speed. 3. Think ahead about fuel options: This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Make sure to weigh up what you will be doing in terms of mileage before making your decision. Don’t disregard one option over another based purely on cost. There is a growing number of full electric and hybrid vehicles coming into the market from brands alongside their current petrol and diesel offering. Speak to the sales team about your needs and make sure to have a good understanding of what your new car will be doing before you start the process. 4. Build your dream car: If you are uncertain what features, colour or trim you want on your new car just visit the manufacturer website. Many have vehicle configurators that allow you to spec your dream car, so you have something to bring with you on your visit to the dealership. 5. Factor in extra costs: Make sure to factor in the day to day running costs of your new purchase in terms of car tax, fuelling, EV charging costs and insurance. These can sometimes be unintentionally forgotten when working out the potential car costs. If you have a growing family make sure to consider how many ISOFIX points and additional seats you might need. 6. Check for savings: Most manufacturers and dealers offer savings on option packages as well as service plans which allow you to bundle features together resulting in some additional savings. 7. Consider finance: There are plenty of different ways for you to cover the cost of your new car with bank loans, credit union loans, PCP, HP and leasing options available. So, make sure to ask the dealership what they think works best for you. Most dealerships and manufacturers list current offers on their site so make sure to check these before beginning your journey. 8. Check the lead time: As already mentioned, there are global production constraints affecting some manufacturers and models so make sure to get as much information as possible from the sales team in relation to delivery times as you can. 9. Order ASAP: Lead times are caused by production delays so make sure if you are planning on changing your car inside a certain timeframe, such as before its next NCT, that you order ahead. The lead time information might also be helpful if you decide to sell your car privately. 10. And finally… be patient: Manufacturers and dealers have worked hard to ensure that many of their key models are available. But if you require something bespoke in terms of features or options there might be a delay. Always check with your dealer as in most cases the car you desire is available but there might be a longer than usual delay. Buying a new car is an important decision. Having a strong understanding of what you need it to do for you in terms of mileage and cost savings is vital to ensure you are getting the maximum value.

Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist, and Motor expert. It’s a daunting question and one that’s on the top of every motorists mind when it comes to possibly changing cars. Are you ready leave the combustion engine behind and move away from petrol or diesel? DoneDeal has thousands of cars for sale at any one point but if you are to consider driving an electric vehicle or perhaps hybrid, what are the key factors you need to consider? Lets delve a little deeper! Firstly, is it really worth changing to an electric vehicle for the environment? Most modern combustion engines have so many particulate filters to meet emission laws they are incredibly clean but on the road, they still can’t beat electricity! Generally speaking, electric cars tend to produce significantly less planet-warming emissions than the traditional petrol and diesel-powered engine models that we have used on our roads for decades. Most manufacturers are making greater efforts to reduce the impact of an electric car’s production from the very start. The factories they are made in, are powered by renewable energy, the materials used are of a sustainable nature and the battery technology is getting cleaner and better every year. More electric cars on the road means significantly reduced air pollution, lower carbon dioxide emissions and reduction of noise pollution. With no exhaust pipe to produce carbon monoxide, air quality becomes considerably better using an electric vehicle. Another point worth noting is how clean the electricity is that you feed your electric car. At present, roughly one-third of electricity used to charge an electric car is renewable and Ireland has set a target of 70% renewable grid electricity by 2030. When it comes to your impact on the environment you have to think of future generations and not just today and living in the now. It is imperative that will all play our part and every little bit helps! What about the range on an electric car, will I run out? The dreaded range anxiety that can only be felt by EV owners has had many second-guessing the practicality of electric power over the years. If truth be told, it was, and still is something to consider but the overall distance range of an electric car has improved dramatically in the last ten years. With a little planning and proper understanding of your daily commute the anxiety will dissipate as you acclimatise to life with an EV. Studies have shown that for the vast majority, electric cars can easily do the daily commute with power in reserve on a single charge. Broadly speaking a 40kWh battery provides around 270km range on one charge, while a 62kWh battery provides up to 385km on a single charge. If you happen to cover 50km per day on average, a 40kWh car would only need to be charged every five or six days, or once a week with a 62kWh car. Driving style, where you live, weather conditions all play a factor but most will find the range of a modern EV more than adequate. The other key to eliminating range anxiety is to know where to charge in your area, home or workplace. The ESB has installed approximately 1,300 charge points across Ireland, with that number continuing to grow. Other suppliers have also come on stream, some with high speed charging capabilities. A good tip is to make sure you have a home-charging unit also if possible because this really is the key to commuting daily with ample range. On arrival home, simply get into the habit of plugging the vehicle in. On average, 80% of car journeys in Ireland cover 20km or less and with typical electric vehicle ranges going from 100km up to 500km, you can put your mind at ease. What are the running costs like and what savings could I make? Yes the big question is what are the savings like and as an electric vehicle owner, it’s a question you best be prepared for, because everyone wants to know the answer! The simple answer is yes, electric cars are cheaper to fuel, tax (€120 per annum) and maintain in the long run over your traditional combustion powered vehicle. Charging aside for a moment there are fewer moving parts with no engine oils, plugs, belts, filters in play making service trips few and far between. Even brakes last a great deal longer than their petrol and diesel equivalents thanks to highly efficient regenerative braking systems. You simply lift your foot off the accelerator and allow the vehicle to slow up on regen braking, which becomes strangely addictive. Depending on the type of EV, varying levels of regenerative braking can be used. To directly compare the saving you could experience with an electric vehicle we recommend checking out the SEAI’s comparison calculator website but the average annual saving when you run different vehicles appears to be around €2000 a year. Owners of a home 7kw home charging unit can avail of a full overnight charge for as little as €3 should you choose to avail of nighttime electricity rates. This is then added to your domestic electricity bill. Public charging varies in price but the ESB charges 26.8c per kWh at the “pump” which equates to around €3.97 for 100km/h of range. A subscription-based option will reduce this further. Although electric cars were regarded as expensive vehicles to purchase in the first place, you have to do the math with the grants and other savings considered. Most electric cars listed on DoneDeal are either directly price-comparable or even better value than existing petrol or diesel alternatives. Are there any grants I can avail of to aid me in the purchase of an EV? There are a number of grants including cheaper toll bridge crossings from the government and the SEAI have various grant options available for private use. Grants are accessed through an authorised dealer network from our trusted DoneDeal dealer network. These grants apply to new vehicles only. For the private individual, a maximum grant of €5,000 is available, dependent on the overall price of the vehicle exceeding €20,000. In comparison, a minimum grant of €2,000 is made available for electric cars priced between €14,000 and €15,000. The lower the price, the lower the grant. Most prices quoted on DoneDeal for new electric vehicles would be inclusive of the grants available. From a charging perspective, provided you are a private owner, a grant up to the value of €600 can help towards the purchase and installation costs for a designated charge point at your property. This is a must if you plan and leaving combustion power for electric. Having access to your own charger makes living with an EV so much easier! Perhaps a hybrid might be a better choice for me, what are my options? New hybrids no longer qualify for any grants unlike in years past. The sticker price is the price you will pay but there are various types of hybrid power trains that you should understand. The first form of hybrid motoring is a battery that works in harmony with your petrol or diesel engine to power the vehicle at lower speeds or through traffic. These are self-charging units most often found in Toyota’s full hybrid powertrain line-up. You just get in and go letting the vehicle do the work. Then there is the plug in hybrid (PHEV) of which the main elements are very similar to a standard hybrid car, in that you have an extra battery and electric motor to support the work of a petrol or diesel engine. The main difference is that the battery is bigger, allowing a PHEV to drive much further on electric power alone. It is worth noting that many manufacturers claim to have a hybrid offering these days but some are classed as mild hybrids. This is simply a conventional petrol or diesel engine with a low voltage (48V) battery and an electric motor which is typically used to power electric components such as the radio or other cabin comforts like the air conditioning. At low engine speeds, they can supplement the engine with a small electric boost during acceleration, but unlike full hybrids, the electric motor cannot power the car on its own, and they cannot drive in full electric mode. In our opinion if you are considering a hybrid, it should be a full or plug in hybrid at the least. This will give you a realistic taste of what it will be like to live with a battery electric vehicle (BEV) in the future. Please keep in mind that if you buy a plug in hybrid and don’t charge the vehicle, you are simply using your combustion engine to haul a heavy batter around and thus killing the efficiency of the car. DoneDeal has a massive selection of used electric vehicles. What should I look out for? Well this is a tricky one really because we are still learning about the technology, how long the batteries last and what range they will continue to give. Most electric vehicles come with a separate warranty for their battery, and this usually runs for longer than the car's warranty. The industry standard for battery life is an eight-year warranty on most models but more recently we have seen some brands offering a shorter five-year term. At the very least the battery should still be offering 70% of its total capacity after the eight year period. There are options to replace or recondition but we are hearing mixed reports on pricing. It is worth factoring in that aside from the battery there is very little else that can go wrong. Make sure you have good brakes, suspension and all the electrics are working inside. With fewer moving parts they generally appear to aging better than combustion powered vehicles. To see our large range of electric vehicles for sale please click HERE. To get more electric motoring insights and read some of our reviews please click HERE. DoneDeal hosts the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 78,000 on sale today. The vast majority of those, over 60,000, are from over 1,000 trusted local dealerships that offer certainty in your purchase through warranties History checks. One car ad is placed every minute on DoneDeal, with about 600,000 cars advertised a year. DoneDeal is Ireland's No.1 Motor Website with over 70 million car searches taking place annually. To check out DoneDeal’s range of cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships, see here. #Motors

Even though they are becoming increasingly common sights on Irish roads these days, many people still ask themselves, 'what is a hybrid car?' If that's a question you have put to yourself and would like a full explanation, then you are in the right place. To put it as simply as possible, a hybrid car makes use of an electric motor as well as a combustion engine to provide automotive power. This means the wheels will turn – at least, in part – from the car's battery pack. The electrical motor that is used should not be confused car's starter motor, however. This is a small electric motor that is used to help cars start up without the need for an old-fashioned crank handle. In hybrid cars, the electric motor will assist or take over from the combustion engine to provide mobility. Please note that a hybrid car can cover quite a few different types of vehicle models. To be classed as a car, it will have to be a four-wheeler since trikes and mobility scooters don't count. Equally, hybrid cars shouldn't be confused with all-electric models. Both of these technologies make use of electric power but in different ways. Put simply, all-electric cars don't have a combustion engine or a fuel tank but rely solely on batteries and an electric motor. Hybrids have both. There are two main types, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and so-called mild hybrids (MHEVs). Let's deal with each in turn. What Are Plug-In Hybrid Electric Cars? Despite the fact that all-electric cars and hybrids both make use of battery packs and electrical automotive technologies, they constitute different types of electric vehicle. With hybrid cars, the basic choice is to opt for one that you will plug into the mains electric supply to charge or one that will trickle charge its battery when the vehicle is moving around. Different car manufacturers use slightly different terms for their hybrid models, but the basic thing to take on board is that there are two technologies to know about. The first type of hybrid car is a plug-in, or PHEV. This type of car will use a standard combustion engine with a fuel tank and can drive around without any electrical power whatsoever. When driving without electrical power, the only compromise – when compared to a non-hybrid model – might be that the car has a smaller-than-usual tank and will be weighed down a bit more by its battery pack. However, when the car is operating in electric mode, it will make use of its second engine, one that takes power from the car's batteries. Plug-in hybrids can be charged when not in use, just like all-electrics. The main difference is that they have a smaller range than all-electrics. About 30 miles or so is typical. This is because they don't have large battery packs. That's why they have a second power system to take over when the electrical power runs out. Although the limited electrical range of plug-in hybrid cars might be viewed as a limiting factor, owners will soon realise that driving a PHEV – as opposed to an all-electric car – will mean being able to charge up their vehicle much more rapidly. Some PHEVs blend the electrical power with the car's fossil fuel-powered one to get the best out of each. Others use the remaining battery power first before starting the combustion engine up. Usually, different driving modes alter how this works, but these depend on the particular model concerned. What Are Mild Hybrid Electric Cars? When it comes to mild-hybrid technology, a MHEV car will not have a charging point or be able to be recharged from the mains electrical supply. Instead, the car's battery pack will charge when the car is in regeneration mode. This occurs when the car is making more energy than it currently needs. Driving downhill usually results in a mild hybrid car's battery charging, for example. Regenerative braking systems are also used to help recharge the battery. Either way, electric power is deployed, when needed, to supplement the energy the engine is making from its tank. Therefore, hybrid electric cars merely reduce the amount of fuel that is consumed, reducing carbon emissions and making each journey that bit cheaper. Mild hybrid cars do not offer as much electric power as plug-in hybrids. The energy storage capacity in their battery packs will be smaller for one thing. In addition, the amount of energy they can capture from regeneration will necessarily be less than that which they could obtain by plugging them in. However, you do not need to take charging cables around with you when you drive using a MHEV car because you will never plug it in. Equally, this approach to hybrid car technology is more convenient for people without drives who only have on-street parking. Simply put, they won't need to trail power cables over the pavement to charge their car and cause a potential hazard to neighbours. How Do Hybrid Electric Cars Work? As previously mentioned, a battery pack – an interconnected series of batteries spread out within the body of the car – supplies power to a motor. The main difference with a car's electric motor, as opposed to a petrol-powered one, is that it will generate rotary motion from the interaction that occurs between a magnetic field and a winding current. This means no linear motion is required from pistons from which rotary motion is then derived. In theory, this makes electric motors more efficient. The rotary motion they make from the battery power is more easily transferred to the wheels of the car. Drivers often notice greater torque when pulling away in a hybrid car that is only using electrical power for this very reason. In most hybrid cars, the software onboard will regulate the flow of battery energy to maximise performance or range depending on the driving mode that has been selected by the driver so that the use of fossil fuels is minimised. Some hybrid car models will even give motorists a display of the proportion of electric power that is being consumed at any moment on the road. What Are the Benefits of Owning a Hybrid Car? There are numerous benefits of hybrid car ownership, including: Cutting down on fossil fuel consumption. Quieter motoring with less rumble and engine noise when in electric mode. Some tax breaks are available in the EU for certain classes of hybrid cars. In Ireland, various incentive schemes have been set up by the government in the past. The local environment will not be so polluted because fewer particulates will be emitted. Some charging stations are free to use in certain locations to encourage more take-up of plug-in hybrid cars. Individual carbon footprints can be greatly reduced with a hybrid car, especially with plug-ins if they are recharged from a sustainable source of electrical production such as, for example, solar panels. Some motorists report they simply prefer the driving experience when behind the wheel of a hybrid car. Are There Any Downsides With Hybrid Car Ownership? On the face of it, there are so many positives to hybrid car ownership that there should be very little to think about when it comes to purchasing one. However, like most things to do with car ownership, there are some considerations to bear in mind. Firstly, despite the clear and obvious benefits to the environment that electrically powered vehicles offer, they make use of some heavy metals. Some of these need to be extracted with some destruction to the local environment, where they are mined with a considerable carbon cost. However, once they have been extracted and put into car motors and battery packs, they will continue to offer a sustainable source of energy, unlike fossil fuels, of course. In addition, PHEVs need time to power up. If you think that spending a few minutes refuelling your car at the pump is too long, then a plug-in car may not be for you after all. Unless you know you can charge your car when you are at the office or know you will rarely need it to drive longer journeys than the car's maximum range, this can be a problem worth weighing up. Of course, that's one of the reasons why MHEV technology is so popular, because it means making use of electrical power without the need to ever plug your car in and charge it. Finally, there is not yet a great deal of publicly available charging infrastructure to allow plug-in car owners to break their journey up and recharge on longer trips. Nevertheless, it is fair to say that this situation is changing throughout Europe, but it will take time until fast electric car charging points become the norm and fuel pumps are the exception at filling stations. DoneDeal hosts the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 78,000 on sale today. Check out DoneDeal’s range of hybrid cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships:

Looming legislation to ban combustion engines and consumer demands have increased electric vehicles' popularity. Nowadays, you will find the best electric vehicles for your daily commutes and even long-distance versions with better battery technology to last longer. Many people opt for electric cars to cut back on carbon emissions and enjoy quiet and smooth rides. In Ireland, public charging stations are increasing as many people invest in electric vehicles. However, if you have an EV, you should clock up your day's driving and find a suitable battery for your needs. With electric vehicle manufacturers increasing daily, you can find a range of EVs on the market. Whether you fancy an SUV style or hatchback, here are the best electric cars on the market: Hyundai Ioniq 5 Nissan Leaf Renault Zoe Ford Mustang Mach-E Skoda Enyaq iV Audi e-Tron GT Tesla Model Y Kia EV6 Fiat 500 Electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 The Hyundai Ioniq 5 presents a distinctive retro-futuristic design with an impressive interior. Hyundai was among the first companies to produce electric versions of mainstream cars from a bespoke EV model platform. The 800-volt electronic architecture speeds up the charging speed, and you can choose from a range of batteries depending on your needs. Standard Ioniq 5s have a 38kWh battery that can last for 312 kilometres on a single charge. Aside from the impressive specs, the electric car is efficient with family practicality. It comes with a boot capacity of 527 litres, and adults can sit in the back comfortably. The EV is ideal for someone looking for a family car that isn't an SUV or a tall crossover. Nissan Leaf Nissan Leaf is a practical hatchback perfect for driving around town. It is comfortable and easy to drive, with a decent charge range of 160 miles for everyday use in summer and 100 miles during winter. You can charge the EV to full capacity within seven and a half hours via a 7kW wall box. With a 50kW charger, you can get 80% capacity in an hour. That means you don't have to worry about the range if you use it to go to work and back. Driving the Nissan Leaf is comfortable around town despite the suspension being firm to support the weight of the batteries. Nissans also have e-Pedal systems, which boost the resistance from the motor and allow you to drive using an accelerator. You don't have to hit the brakes unless it's an emergency. ProPilot driver assistance system also aids with cruise control, traffic jam, and lane assist since it can control the car at low speeds. Renault Zoe Renault Zoe feels like a regular car behind the wheel but quieter, perfect for running errands and short commutes. The electric driving range of Zoe is 245 miles, which covers most short journeys. While Renault Zoe is mini-sized with little cabin space, it has some design features worth noting. The smooth bodywork and Renault's electric model's signatures, like metallic blue details in the badges, make it stand out. The switchgear and infotainment screen is similar to Clio, and the interior surfaces are smooth. You can choose from three trim levels; Iconic, GT Edition and Play. Ford Mustang Mach-E The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a dynamic electric vehicle with a signature blue oval. Being the first Ford Mustang electric car, it has gained attention for its crossover body style and impressive range. While the warp speed isn't impressive like Tesla's, the chassis brings some driving satisfaction with its poise. Its longest range is 379 miles with an 88kWh battery, ideal for daily use. The standard range is 273 miles with the 68kWh battery variant. With its stylish interiors and spacious cabins, Ford Mustang Mach-E treads a fine line between versatility and style. While it doesn't have the characteristics of other sports cars in the Ford Mustang range, it is engaging and fun to drive with exceptional EV characteristics. Skoda Enyaq iV Skoda usually adapts the Volkswagen Group mechanicals with a skateboard platform and gives it a practical body. The Skoda Enyaq iV is not an exception; it has a well-equipped interior and is easy to drive. The chassis set-up is medium-firm, unappealing to keen drivers, but the tight control inspires confidence. With its 201bhp in the '80' version, you can enjoy a range of 333 miles for long journeys, making it one of the best electric cars. The 58kWh battery pack is suitable since it yields a 250-mile range if you want something to drive around town. Audi e-Tron GT The Audi e-Tron GT is a spacious coupe that can seat five people and provide an airy interior space. The interior has real vents to ensure clean air, and an aerodynamic addenda and diffuser to make the interior spaces more comfortable. Audi e-Tron GT's long body gives the occupants good legroom, but the headroom can be uncomfortable for tall passengers. Like other EVs, it has two powerful motors for the front and rear wheels. You can blast the car up to 62mph in under three seconds due to the 646 horsepower. With its battery capacity of 93kWh, you can enjoy 283 miles of range without recharging. Tesla Model Y Tesla Model Y adapts many features from its brother, Model 3, but offers more cabin space and is slightly taller. It's a more practical EV version from Tesla suitable for a family outing. The ample passenger space, large cabin and airy interior improve its practicality despite the minimalist furnishings. The storage spaces are also generous for road trips. Besides, you can find various battery ranges to suit your needs. The long-range version of Model Y has a 315 miles range and can charge fast. You will enjoy a smooth ride since the vehicle has a dynamic template with a heavily weighted and quick-geared steering. The firm suspension makes it easy to navigate, while the Autopilot driver assistance system helps you control the car. You can also use the self-driving support system but should be vigilant. Kia EV6 Kia EV6 was created using the Hyundai Group's E-GMP architecture, which has an 800-volt technology. The EV can recharge to 80% capacity in 18 minutes using a 350kW rapid charger. You can choose from three trims and two drive forms; single-motor rear-driven and twin-motor four-wheel. With power outputs ranging from 226bhp to 321bhp, its 77.4kWh battery can run for 328 miles. Kia EV6 is a practical and appealing electric car despite the complex specs. An impressive body designed to enhance performance and comfort covers the state-of-the-art model. The rear-wheel-drive chassis makes the electric car engaging to drive compared to other EVs. The cabin sizes and interior spaces improve its versatility. Fiat 500 Electric Fiat 500 is a relatively small car, but its impressive range makes up for the miniature size. The company has also introduced bigger versions of the Fiat 500 Electric to compete with the best electric cars. Fiat 500 features a retro-chic look with the exterior spaces taking a smoother and rounded look with a minimalist interior design. The car can seat two adults in front and two in the back seats in the reborn versions. You also have convenient storage spaces like the tray under the touch screen. The Fiat 500 comes with a 42kWh battery pack with a 199-mile range or 23.7kWh with a 115-mile range. You can charge it to 80% capacity in under 35 minutes using an 85kW public charger. Benefits of buying the best electric cars Electric cars provide impressive features and benefits to users, from smooth rides to reduced maintenance costs. Some of the advantages of investing in EVs include: Fun to drive: Electric cars are high-performance vehicles that are fun to drive compared to combustion engines. The acceleration power and the smooth ride are impressive. Besides, you can enjoy a quiet ride. Low maintenance: You cancel a few items off your maintenance checklist when driving an electric vehicle. For instance, you don't need oil changes, spark plugs or replacing fuel and air filters. Most electric cars are also efficient and only require an inverter, motor and onboard charger for powering them, reducing the moving parts. Environmentally-conscious: EVs don't have a tailpipe or gas emissions, making them cleaner and better for the environment than petrol and diesel cars. Fewer emissions reduce greenhouse gases, and many companies also build environmentally-friendly batteries. Which is the best electric car in 2022? The above electric cars provide multiple advantages and are great investments. You can combine the benefits of a city car and long battery ranges in the Fiat 500 or Nissan Leaf or find practical SUVs and crossover styles for family outings. The EVs provide a scintillating performance and smooth rides for a modest investment. DoneDeal hosts the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 78,000 on sale today. Check out DoneDeal’s range of electric cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships:

Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist, and Motor expert. We were recently lucky enough to take a trip out to Barcelona to test the new Mazda CX-5 ahead of its arrival to Ireland. This is a significantly updated version of Mazda's stylish SUV that has now gone on sale in Mazda dealers nationwide. Mazda’s next generation of Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture has now been applied to the 2022 CX-5 making it not just sharper and better looking but also nicer on the road thanks to suspension and chassis upgrades. Road noise has also been greatly reduced, particularly when driving on loose surfaces such as gravel thanks to better sound deadening and slightly more suspension travel. For 2022 Mazda have also introduced the all-new Mi-Drive drive mode selection to the CX-5, which enables you to select the most appropriate drive mode with one touch of a switch. Our rural readers will also welcome the fact that i-Activ AWD has been fitted to some models, which allows you to select Off-Road Mode for challenging conditions. Features So what are the significant styling changes Mazda have made to the 2022 CX-5? Well on approach you can most certainly see the nose is more striking than its predecessor. A more prominent three-dimensional grille looks sharp and both the front and rear light clusters have also been restyled. Three new model grades (Newground, Homura, GT LUX) incorporate subtle differences and a choice of new colours. In looking at the model grades more closely you will see the Newground features silver underguard-style trim to the front and rear bumpers and door garnishes. There are black door mirrors with lime green accents to the front grille and 19-inch black machine-cut alloy wheels. The interior combines suede upholstery with lime green stitching and air-conditioning louvres to match the exterior details. The Homura is perhaps a more sporty option with a gloss black finish to the front grille, signature wing, lower bumper sections, wheel arches, door garnishes, door mirrors and 19-inch alloy wheels. It looks more aggressive on the road and the front grille incorporates red accents that tie in nicely with the red stitching trims on the black leather seats, steering wheel, gearshift lever and door panels. Finally if you like a little more luxury then perhaps the GT LUX is the vehicle for you. A single colour paint colour coding everything gives it’s a classy look! Bright silver 19-inch alloy wheels look great and the interior features luxurious Nappa leather and genuine wood grain detailing around the dash. Technology has also been upgraded considerably and the CX-5 now benefits from a wireless Qi phone-charging tray in the center console. The two-piece, reversible load-space floorboard and the tailgate sill are on the same level to make loading a trouble-free. Newground models also feature a floorboard with a water-resistant side for water sports equipment or perhaps your furry friend. Power There are a variety of different engines paired with the different trim levels but we had the pleasure of driving the 184hp 2.2 Skyactive-D which is has plenty of low down torque and is very responsive. This to us is the perfect mile muncher and a vehicle capable of a long daily commute. There is also a 163hp 2.0 litre petrol (Skyactive-X), which is fantastic for driving around town. The standard 6-speed manual gearbox is a nice gearbox with a light clutch and short throw however we preferred the 6-speed automatic gearbox albeit at a €4,000 premium. Buyers can choose between two and four wheel drive. Safety Another strong point for Mazda is safety and the updated CX-5’s range of i-Activsense safety systems now includes Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS). CTS helps reduce driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal and steering operations when stuck in traffic jams. The front Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH) have also been enhanced to give better control over light distribution. The usual plethora of airbags is also on hand to every CX-5 occupant safe! Mazda CX-5 (2022) Prices Prices kick off at €38,745 and rise into the €60k plus depending on the amount of spec optioned. For us the sweet spot is probably around mid €40’s for a Newground diesel specification. Mazda currently have a number of offers to include PCP and finance deals. Be sure to check in with your local dealer for the most recent pricing. Summary Mazda have appeared to play it safe with the new CX-5 and with a selection of updates and refinements they are confident the CX-5 can continue to hold its own in a very popular segment. Believe it of not the CX-5 is such a core model for Mazda that it makes up about 21% of the European annual sales. Even here in Ireland the CX-5 makes up 30% of Mazda sales, second only to the CX-30, which has been a runaway success for Mazda! With this sort of success it’s understandable that they didn’t totally reinvent the wheel with this one. By playing it safe and updating the vitals it should continue to stand the test of time. Our only worry is the fact that there isn’t a hybrid offering and we know by recent sales figures released, people of trending towards hybrid and electric power. We will continue to watch this space! For now our test was somewhat short-lived with the CX-5 in Barcelona but we will have a weeklong test drive back home in the coming months to learn even more. Perhaps we will make use of the 506 litres of boot space on offer and take it on a road trip! Mazda CX-5 (2022) Pros Style Quality materials Mazda CX-5 (2022) Cons No hybrid offering To see our YouTube video review of the Mazda CX-5, please click here. To view all Mazda’s currently for sale with Irish dealers please click here. DoneDeal hosts the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 78,000 on sale today. The vast majority of those, over 60,000, are from over 1,000 trusted local dealerships that offer certainty in your purchase through warranties History checks. One car ad is placed every minute on DoneDeal, with about 600,000 cars advertised a year. DoneDeal is Ireland's No.1 Motor Website with over 70 million car searches taking place annually. To check out DoneDeal’s range of cars from all of Ireland’s trusted car dealerships, see here. #Motors

Up-cycling is all the rage these days. It’s a great way to recycle old pieces of furniture and give them a new lease of life. Emer here at DoneDeal is a dab hand at it. In this blog, she’s going to focus on paint – chalk paint and eggshell. Chalk Paint Without blabbing on about the reasons why I ended up with just one kitchen chair out of a set of six, that chair had a sentimental value which meant I just couldn’t throw it out even though it was a bit bashed up. Chalk painted chair So, I decided to try out the much talked about Chalk Paint as opposed to my usual choice which would be Eggshell Paint. The main attraction of chalk paint is that there isn’t as much need for the sanding and preparation you need to do to use normal paint. The finish from Chalk Paint is kind of part of its charm… its not perfect, nor is it meant to be. In fact, giving it a distressed look seems to be a preference for many. Anyhow, with a quick wipe and clean down, I set out painting my chair. The paint itself was easy to use (I found it best to water it down a bit), but it does dry very quickly and the coverage is excellent. If its a quick project you want to spruce up something that is looking a bit dilapidated, then Chalk Paint is a great choice. After you’ve finished and your work is dry, you do need to seal it off with wax, and you can distress it a bit with sandpaper on corners etc, but this is where I felt what is gained in not preparing is lost in the importance of the finishing off. Waxing takes a bit of time, I didn’t feel you could just lash it on and then buff it off. You needed to make sure to get the wax all over the piece of furniture, make sure you didn’t leave any lumps of wax anywhere and then come back and buff it up the next day. Eggshell painted drawers Onto my little project with Eggshell Paint. I had a little chest of drawers, not a spectacular piece of furniture but a useful piece. I knew I could use it in a living room area in my house but it was very worn out looking. I spent a little bit of time sanding, cleaning down and preparing it for undercoat and an Eggshell top coat. The result was lovely, and when you are finished with the paint brushes, that is it, no waxing. The paint is more durable also, a bit of a more professional finish I feel. Try it out though, get started with small pieces and enjoy it! #HouseampDIY