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Collecting pen Where the handling facilities are located independent of buildings, the collecting pen should ideally be able to hold a number of cattle that fits in with group sizes within the herd. Where handling facilities are located in, or adjacent to, e.g. a slatted unit the pens in the slatted unit could be used for collecting and holding animals. The floor area required per animal will vary depending on size. As a general guide allow: • Young cattle: 0.9 to 1.1 m² • Finishing cattle: 1.4 to 1.7 m² • Suckler cows with calves: 2.3 to 2.75 m² It is easier to control and move cattle in a long narrow pen rather than a wide square one. Pen widths of 4.5 to 6 m are recommended (depending on herd size). The entrance to it should be at least 3 m wide to allow easy access. Forcing pen The forcing pen leads from the collecting pen to the race. The forcing pen should be funnel shaped as it approaches the mouth of a race. One side of the funnel must be straight. The angle of the funnel is critical and should not exceed 30°. If the angles are wider, cattle may block or turn at the mouth of the race or two cattle may become jammed at the race entrance. The widest point of the pen should approximately be 3 to 4 m. The forcing pen should hold enough cattle to fill the race. Circular forcing pens leading to a funnel entrance to the race are preferred to rectangular ones. Animals should not be tightly packed into the forcing pen as they may need to turn to enter the race. Race • Length: The race or chute should be 3.6 m minimum. A race of 9 m will hold 5 to 6 adult cattle. Long races (e.g. handling over 12 cattle) are not recommended. • Width: the internal width of the race will depend on the size and type of the largest cattle using it. As a general guideline, allow: adult stock 700-750 mm clear internal width. Exceptionally large stock (e.g. pedigree) may require facilities up to 900 mm wide. Young stock require an internal race width of approximately 500 mm. Very wide races may have to be altered temporarily for young stock e.g. fitting panels/planks to the side. • Height: 1.4-1.5 m above floor level. All surfaces must be smooth. Avoid protruding objects. Uprights should be spaced about 2 m apart. Side bars are normally spaced 350-400 mm apart. • Floor: Non slip concrete surface. • Tailbar: It should be possible to use a tailbar at various points along the race to prevent stock reversing out. • Facilitates drainage, e.g. via split drains. • Incorporates opening side panels/gates for easy release of animals if necessary. Catwalk A catwalk running outside the race: • Reduces the risk of injury to the operator. • Improves access and reach when handling stock. • Prevents cattle’s feet slipping out under the bottom rail. • Catwalks should normally be 250-400 mm high. The width of the catwalk should be wide enough to facilitate a safe and efficient working area. The recommended width should be approximately 1.1 m. The catwalk can be omitted along side the crush section if it is seen to restrict the operator’s access to the animal. Crush The crush may be part of the race or a separate facility at the end of the race. A well designed crush should incorporate the following features: • Quick release restraining gate. Different designs of proprietary head gates are available and the choice depends on the frequency of use and type of work to be done. • Have a tailbar/gate to prevent and control backward movement. • All around access to the animal, including at the rear. • A secure gate to hold back animals in the race is essential when accessing the rear of an animal. The animal in the crush must also be prevented from backward movement. • Removable side bars/gate for access to feet, udder, etc. • Have equipment for hoisting and restraining limbs. • Facilitate weighing if necessary. The weighing facility can be in a separate section of the race behind the crush • Preferably be under cover. • Free from sharp edges. • Non slip floor surface. • Facilitate access of a vehicle for loading of animals. Purpose-built crushes are commercially available. Typical dimensions are: • Length: 1,830 mm. • Width: 790 mm. • Height: 1,625 mm. Dispersal Pen This pen holds cattle until all cattle are treated or handled. It can facilitate the sorting of stock afterwards. Handling facilities in or near housing can use the pens in the housing for holding and dispersal. And most importantly, we want YOU to be safe. Safety passes or personnel passes are narrow vertical openings in gates or fences. They typically provide 300 to 350 mm of clear space for people to pass through. Locate passes wherever it is expected that people would otherwise have to climb over a fence or open a gate on a regular basis. Have a least one safety pass in each pen and one every 7.5-8 m in animal movement and handling passageways to allow someone to exit quickly. Avoid locating passes where animal flow is directly in line with, or at the pass, as excited animals may try to use the safety pass as an escape route and become trapped. Safety passes also allow someone to get in front of or behind a group of animals safely and with relative ease. We wish you every success this Winter and all the Winters to come. This information is publically available as part of the Teagasc Beef Manual available on Teagasc.ie #Farming

Animal behaviour It is better to rely on animal behaviour principles instead of sheer force to restrain and control animals during handling. Fine-tuning the design of animal handling facilities will enhance animal welfare and reduce stress and injuries. Herd instinct Cattle prefer to remain in groups. Isolating individual cattle from the group (unless sick) causes stress and agitation and should be avoided. Keep back a companion animal if necessary. Vision Cattle are poor judges of detail and distance. They dislike dark or shadowy areas. Provide good natural and artificial lighting in and around handling facilities, particularly where the crush is. Handling facilities under a roof overhang will have plenty of natural light. Use extra rooflights for facilities within buildings. Use extra double fluorescent lamps for artificial lighting. Key facts • Cattle are wary of any changes in their path, e.g. abrupt changes in floor material, outside visual distractions, etc. • Cattle are less surefooted on downward slopes and prefer to move uphill. • Excessive noise e.g. shouting, machinery and dogs can alarm them and cause unpredictable behavior. About DoneDeal #Farming Employing over 50 people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell farming machinery and stock online. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing online. Stripe secure payments are just one of the ways that DoneDeal has been furthering this mission. Interest in Farming overall is growing 25% year over year on Donedeal, with over 13M ad views per month on the site’s farming section. DoneDeal has had over 40M unique advertisement views on listings for beef cattle so far this year.

Car models are continually being refreshed, renewed or reinvented. The best sellers from 2020 will continue to be best sellers in 2021 but we will also see cars launched in 2020 gain a foothold. Gems like the electric VW ID.3 , the multi-fuel Peugeot 208 , Ford Puma & Kuga , and a favourite of mine the all-electric Honda-e will all take off. A lot of motoring’s household names will be refreshed (new) with many more ‘all-new’ (really new) models arriving in 2021. Here are just a few worth looking out for: Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA This version of the stunning Giulia Quadrifoglio has been fed extra steroids. It is an incredibly exciting car to drive and will appeal to many and sadly only bought by the lucky few. The GTA represents the best in old school petrol power with its Ferrari sourced engine and deliciously fruity exhaust note. For many the GTA is performance perfection. Alfa will also give us the all new Tonale. It’s a great looking compact SUV crossover (based on the Jeep Renegade) and is powered by petrol, diesel and PHEV versions. Tonale will challenge the usual premium compact rivals: Audi Q3 , BMW X1 , Jaguar E-Pace , Volvo XC40 and Range Rover Evoque . Like all Alfa Romeos it will be a niche seller. Audi Q4 e-Tron Audi’s all electric mid-sized SUV is set to be a very important car for the premium brand as competition in this class rises. The mid-size Q5 SUV range gets a sleeker model in the Audi Q5 Sportback . The Sportback shape has been a hit in the smaller Q3 and is a welcome addition to the otherwise predictable looking Q5. A new Audi RS3 arrives too – yum! BMW will have a busy year in 2021 expanding its ‘i’ electric sub brand range. The all-new BMW i4 EV is a four-door electric car that promises to challenge the Tesla Model 3 for range and power and is a game changer for the Bavarian brand. SUV buyers can go electric too with the BMW iX3 SUV . This car annoys the anti-SUV brigade who won’t be able to argue with its manageable size and zero emissions from its non-existent tailpipe! The petrol engine powered 260hp 128ti compact car will find a few homes in 2021 with it iconic ‘ ti ’ badge. A new 2 Series Coupe is due too. At the other end of the size scale the all-new BMW X8 will certainly catch the eye. The 5-seat coupe-ish version of the huge 7-seat BMW X7 SUV won’t be easily lost in a carpark, that’s for sure. Citroen C4 The new multi-fuel compact crossover should turn a few heads and represent good value for money. We think the electric powered version will attract most attention and interest. Cupra El-Born The all new El-Born is a Spanish twist on Volkswagen’s ID.3 electric car, but with more attitude. Cupra is SEAT’s sub brand and SEAT is owned by the VW Group. As the nursery rhyme goes “The El-Born’s connected to the ID.3 ” – sorry I couldn’t resist. In every sense the two VW Group EVs are inter-connected. Like all Cupras the El-Born will be a rare enough sight on Ireland’s roads. The all new Cupra Formentor (in picture above) will be a relatively popular car as it is a mid-size SUV. The engine choice has petrol, diesel or PHEV. Depending on your spending power you can get modest or loads of power. The all-wheel drive version is the one to covet. DS 4 The second generation of the posh Citroen will be a niche seller but oh so stylish. FIAT 500 The 500 returns in all electric form. This version will join the list of cute EVs that people will find near irresistible like the 2020 launched Honda-e, MINI electric and Peugeot e-208. Ford Puma ST The hybrid Puma launched in 2020. When you add ST sports performance to any Ford the car becomes a lot more interesting. Ford Mustang Mach-E Ford’s first all-electric car will be a game changer for the US brand. Ford has been slow to embrace electrification - but it is catching up. Hyundai Ioniq 5 This electric powered SUV is part of a newly announced ‘Ioniq’ electric only sub-brand from Hyundai. A number of new models will be released in the coming years. Not sure if we’ll see the Ioniq 5 here in 2021, but we might! Jaguar refreshed its range late in 2020 with new technology taking centre stage. The compact Jaguar E Pace and its sister car the Jaguar XE along with the larger Jaguar F Pace mid-size SUV and its sister car the Jaguar XF all received facelifts and tech-lifts (I may have made that word up, but you know what I mean). The all-new flagship Jaguar XJ arrives in 2021. The once gas-guzzling barge has gone all electric! Wonders will never cease with this dual motor, all-wheel drive, luxury saloon. Lexus UX300e The compact Lexus UX SUV now comes with an electric only version. This will create a good battle among premium rivals in the compact EV market. Mazda MX-30 This electric SUV may be low range but is great to drive and looks the part. Urban EVs (a nice way of saying low range) can make sense and are more affordable than large range EVS due to their smaller battery packs. The MX-30 is very impressive. Mercedes-Benz C-Class The latest version of Merc’s excellent business machine arrives in 2021 with new hybrid technology. Also coming our way from the Germany brand is the full-size luxury SUV Maybach GLS , CLS Coupe , AMG GT four-door and SL. The ‘EQ’ electric MB sub brand range is expanding rapidly in 2021. The compact SUV Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQV full size people carrier arrive first. An EQS and EQE are due at the end of the year. The daddy of the company carpark the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class arrives also in 21 and is a technological tour de force. The CEO’s parking space will look very smart with this new and tech loaded super saloon – there is a Mercedes -Maybach S-Class version also – good news for multi-millionaires. MINI Countryman The new PHEV plug in hybrid version of their popular compact SUV will be built for the first time in BMW’s ultra-efficient Leipzig plant in Germany. Nissan Ariya This exciting electric powered SUV crossover is due in late 2021. 2021 will see the new Nissan Qashqai continue to be a significant vehicle for the Japanese brand. At its launch Qashqai was a game changer as it brought SUV styling to the masses at an affordable price. The new car has countless more rivals to deal with but has a deservingly loyal customer base. Opel Mokka The new baby SUV will shock and delight Opel buyers as it shows a new journey for the now French-owned German brand. The Opel Zafira E as the name implies is an electric car that thanks to being van-based has loads and loads of space. Perfect for large families or as a shuttle or taxi. Range Rover A new electrified flagship is due later in the year and promises to be a lot greener. Renault Arkana This stylish SUV crossover will attract a lot of attention when it arrives. Renault is making very stylish machines these days and has also added new E-TECH hybrid technology to its range. The Zoe EV will continue to grow in sales as will the new Mégane . The Mégane Sport Tourer E-TECH Plug-in hybrid has a 50km electric-only range and ultra-low emissions. Skoda Enyaq The all-new electric-powered crossover SUV from Skoda is in high demand. Two versions arrive in June 2021 with different ranges. The Enyaq uses VW’s ID.3 electric car platform and its running gear under its skin. The new Skoda Fabia is one to watch. The petrol-powered supermini from the historic Czech carmaker will deliver more than the sum of its parts. A sister car of the VW Polo, SEAT Ibiza and Audi A1, Fabia offers a lot - for less. Suzuki has partnered with Toyota and this year two close collaborations will go on sale in Ireland. Suzuki Across PHEV plug-in hybrid is basically a Toyota RAV4. The Suzuki Swace is a hybrid estate car and essentially a reworked Corolla SW, hence the name SW-Ace. Tesla Model Y The SUV version of its Model 3 will eventually go on sale but when it comes to Ireland is anyone’s guess. We tend to be last on the list. Toyota Highlander The 7-seat hybrid all-wheel drive SUV was launched late in 2020 and will become a more frequent sight on Irish roads in 2021. The Toyota RAV4 PHEV Hybrid is an impressive and powerful plug-in hybrid version of the popular SUV. The Yaris launched late 2020 and some variants will be added in 2021. Toyota Yaris Cross is a rugged looking version. The Toyota Yaris GR Gazoo Racing is a stunning 260hp performance hatchback wrapped in a car designed to take people to bingo. The new Golf arrived mid 202 and will continue to be popular in 2021. The niche Volkswagen Arteon Shooting Brake will turn heads from the start of the year. The 8th generation Volkswagen GTI is the definitive hot hatch, arrives in early 2021. The most significant VW next year will be the Volkswagen ID.4 This all-electric SUV crossover will really hit the spot. It uses the same platform as the VW ID.3 but is package in a way that is on trend. Even if it wasn’t an EV it would be attractive and desirable, so it is a win win for the German firm. Fun fact: VW designed the ID.4 before the 3 but decided to release the more affordable ID.3 first. The ID.4 is Volkswagen’s first carbon neutral car at the point of manufacturer. This is an impressive list and far from comprehensive but if I were to choose one car from it that will define 2021 and the direction carmakers and buyers wish to go? It has to be the Volkswagen ID.4. This article is an independent review by Journalist Michael Sheridan. Michael Sheridan has been a Car of the Year Judge for 20 years, more recently a judge for Van of the Year. Note to Reader: The links in the article are filtered to show cars with a reg plate no older than 2020 . Simply adjust the filters in our search panel if you would like to broaden your search for cars or research cars in a different year range. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal has quietly emerged as Ireland’s number one destination to buy and sell premium cars online. DoneDeal has onboarded Ireland's trusted car dealers to become the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. To put this in perspective, when scaled for Ireland, DoneDeal is comparable to AutoTrader in the UK. DoneDeal's central mission is to empower Irish consumers by removing all uncertainty when it comes to purchasing a car. The result has been the development of products and services that empower the Irish consumer, e.g., free basic history check on verified cars, in-depth history checks, warranty, and finance options. Buy Premium cars confidently with DoneDeal. #Motors

Not long after the Irish launch of the ID.7 which, we recently reviewed on the DoneDeal YouTube channel and Volkswagen are back expanding the ID.7 portfolio in Europe with the introduction of an estate car. This all-new ID.7 Tourer is set to be one of the first all-electric estate cars in the upper mid-sized class segment. It differs significantly from saloon variant at the rear thanks to its long roof line and its elegant transition to the boot lid.  In many ways this Tourer is a fusion of a classic estate with inspiration from the Passat, and perhaps the modern shooting brake style that VW have used with the Arteon. Thanks to the increased height at the rear, the luggage compartment volume is more substantial and even with five people on board, the ID.7 Tourer has a luggage capacity of up to 605 litres. When loaded up to the backrests of the front seats and up to the roof, this figure rises to up to 1,714 litres which is super impressive! Features As this is a preview article we have been told that the ID.7 Tourer will be launched with innovative technological features, including an augmented-reality (AR) head-up display equipped as standard. This projects information relevant to the journey into the driver’s field of vision, so their eyes can stay focused on the road. At the same time, the AR head-up display changes the cockpit architecture because it allows classic instruments to become compact. Comfort levels inside are set to make a big jump forward with details such as vents that are automatically operated by small control motors, and ergoActive seats with a new pressure-point massage function and automatic air conditioning. Another innovation buyers can expect on board is the panoramic sunroof with smart glass. These glass layers can be electronically switched to be either opaque or clear. The Wellness In-Car app is also completely new. This allows various vehicle functions to be adjusted by means of three preconfigured programmes (Fresh Up, Calm Down and Power Break) which can help to enhance wellbeing during the journey or breaks. Depending on the vehicle equipment, the app accesses the background lighting, sound, air conditioning, smart glass function, seat air conditioning and seat massage as well as the ID.LIGHT and the infotainment screen. All very clever stuff! Power As expected theID.7 Tourer is equipped with the latest-generation electric drive system which we have seen in the saloon variant. Volkswagen will offer two different battery sizes for the ID.7 Tourer. Depending on the battery energy content, the electric touring car is expected to achieve WLTP ranges of up to 685 km. The largest battery is designed for a maximum charging capacity of up to 200 kW at DC quick-charging stations. At this power level, the battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in significantly less than 30 minutes. Safety Not leaving any safety elements to chance the ID.7 Tourer will be launched with state-of-the-art assist systems. These include the optional Park Assist Plus and the memory function for the Park Assist system - this function enables fully automatic parking over distances of up to 50 m - for example, in the parking space at work or the carport at home. The optional Travel Assist has also been further developed and is now called Connected Travel Assist with Online Data in the latest version. The other assist systems equipped as standard include the autonomous emergency braking system Front Assist and Dynamic Road Sign Display. Costs It’s early days yet with the first ID.7 Tourer not due here until late this year. We estimate a few will be on the road late 2024 but most orders will be submitted ahead of the 251 registration period. With that said we have yet to review Irish pricing but we will keep you informed. Summary The new ID.7 Tourer looks set to combine the emissios advantages of electric mobility with long WLTP ranges (up to 685 km) which will make it highly desirable. The new high-quality cockpit landscape, outstanding travel comfort and superior spaciousness will no doubt make it an ideal business car for the people of Ireland. Europe-wide pre-sales are scheduled to start in the first quarter of this year but as we get more info we will bring you the latest details. For now, watch this space!

Our new DoneDeal Motor report finds that with a crunch in supply, it’s a good time to buy a new or used vehicle as prices are expected to climb on used vehicles. Brexit Impact on imports and the decline in new car sales, and therefore trade-ins, means there are less nearly new used cars (Reg. 2016 - 2019) in the Irish Market. Demand is driving up prices on used cars. Similar trends are visible in the UK where leading car sites have seen increases of 8.5% in the price of used cars across the board. DoneDeal’s Market data, for both New and Used cars, shows that as the price gap closes between nearly new cars (Reg. 2016-2019) and new cars, people are making the leap to enquire about brand new cars on the site. A good time to buy: With a crunch in new supply, vehicles are expected to better hold their value. 1 in 2 Irish consumers intends to buy Hybrid or Electric as their next car. Diesel is still king but DoneDeal research says one in two buyers are now open to buying hybrid or Electric as their next car up from 1 in 4 last year. Competitive Finance Options are expected to make it easier for consumers to trade up to newer and more aspirational car types like Hybrid and Electric vehicles. Among many cohorts, Cash is plentiful as car buyers use funds that would have been used for holidays, creche fees, etc, as deposits on a new car. DoneDeal’s motor report reveals an industry in crisis but one that is transforming to be future proof with the adoption of online selling. In 2021 it is not a matter of ‘if’ Irish consumers intend to buy cars online; they are buying cars online. In 2021, cars are being sold through Car dealerships entirely online, end to end, and via DoneDeal. Car commuters don’t miss the traffic but really miss the contemplation time that commuting gave them. About DoneDeal DoneDeal is for premium car deals to feel great about from Ireland’s local trusted Car Dealers. Employing people in Ireland across Dublin and Wexford, DoneDeal is host to all of Ireland's trusted car dealers and is the number one touchpoint for Irish consumers when buying premium cars. Our mission at DoneDeal is to remove all uncertainty when it comes to buying and selling a car, and we continue to listen carefully to both customers and our trusted dealers in order to make car buying better for the Irish consumer. DoneDeal is well-positioned to address car buyers’ challenges, hosting the widest selection of cars for sale in Ireland, with 72,000 on sale today. The vast majority of those, 51,000, are from over 1,000 trusted local dealerships that offer certainty in your purchase through warranties and history checks, and service options like delivery, click and collect and finance. #Motors

Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist, and Motor expert. Who remembers the first Renault Scenic? Well believe it or not, this vehicle appeared in 1996 as the Megane Scenic and went on to become widely regarded as the first compact Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) in European automotive history. The concept car was unveiled in 1991 at the Frankfurt Motor Show and the road-going version reached dealerships in 1996. It was designed from the inside out for comfort and became a cocoon for cross-country travel with pioneering safety and a super relaxing drive. For this era it was full of trailblazing technology and featured windows that were larger than life for excellent visibility. It was voted European Car of the Year in 1997 and Renault has sold more than 5.4 million units in 110 countries. This impressive sales number is set to grow further with the re-introduction of the Scenic brand now powered by the E-Tech electric platform. We recently took a trip out to Spain for an initial test drive to see if this vehicle simply pays homage, or is it a worthy successor to the Scenic of past. Features So what have we got here in terms of proportions? Well, looks can be deceiving because although sizeable, it weighs in at just 1.85 tonnes with a compact wheelbase of 2.78 metres. Purposeful and well thought out is how we would describe it with Renaults modern design language commanding your attention as you walk around the vehicle. Whilst some DNA elements are visible from the previous generation Scenics, this isn’t a reborn example like Renault have recently done with the 5 on which, it shares some of its underpinnings. Instead the new Scenic was aerodynamically designed to maximise efficiency and thus resulting in better looking vehicle with hidden MPV qualities. This for us is a good thing because MPV’s have somewhat lost their cool over the last ten years resulting in the mass movement to SUV’s and Crossovers, which we are all too familiar with. Do, or did we ever really need this to happen? Probably not if truth were told but peoples tastes change and this new era of vehicles seems to blur the lines between MPV and SUV. This new Scenic E-Tech electric comes six colours with four trim levels to include Evolution, Techno, Esprit Alpine and the top of the range Iconic trim. Our test vehicle was decked out in Iconic trim and boy does it look good. Opening the drivers door reveals a cabin of generous proportions, comfortable seats and two screens in a continuous L-shaped configuration. The horizontal TFT screen directly in the drivers eye measures 12.3-inches corner-to-corner, whilst a vertical 12-inch touch screen in the middle of the console display’s crystal clear vitals with ‘ease of use’ very much a factor. Jumping into the rear and all six-foot of me was swallowed up with ease! With 278 mm of knee room and a generous 884 mm of head room, it is plenty big even for those families with lengthy teenagers to transport. A panoramic roof lets in ample light but this is no ordinary panoramic glass, its actually Renaults pioneering Solarbay opacifying sunroof which can be see-through or opaque at the flick of a button. This heat insulated window needs no blind and has multiple settings including partially open to the front or rear. Another ingenious feature is the rear armrest which has storage space for smartphones or tablets with fold-out stands to comfortably watch screens. Two drink holders, and two USB-C outlets also aid with rear passenger comfort. Opening the tailgate reveals a class leading 545 litre boot that can swallow 1,670 litres of your finest French orange juice with the rear seats down. Power The Renault Scenic E-Tech electric will come with a choice of two battery options one of which is the entry 60 kWh and our test car which was powered by the 87kWh battery.  Both have eight-year, 160,000km warranty and separate modules can be individually repaired or replaced in the event of a failure. Expect 160hp from the entry level motor with a range of up to 430km and 220hp with a claimed 625km range in the larger variant. Will it actually do this claimed range? Well, only time will tell but if you are hogging the motorway overtaking lane or exploring the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of just 7.9 seconds, then we should think not! Drive it sensibly and you should see north of 500 kilometres which, is perfectly acceptable. Quick charging of up to 150 kW is also possible and Renault have clinched a deal with Ionity through it’s Mobilize card service to avail of better charging rates across Europe. Safety All versions of Scenic E-Tech electric are equipped with more than 30 ADAS and safety features that include innovative systems tailored for each driver. As we know, all new vehicles have to come with these driving aids but some can be intrusive and off putting. With that in mind the Scenic will always start with all safety aids turned on, but by configuring the ‘Perso’ settings you can simply double click a button to the right of the steering wheel to dis-engage what you are not comfortable with! Think of it as a ‘hot-key’ as such that makes it much easier than scrolling through vast safety menus. Summary We spent two days enjoying the mountainous routes around the Mijas region flicking between Comfort, Sport, Eco, and the Custom driving modes. The Scenic felt planted, comfortable even rolling on 20-inch wheels and engaging to drive at all times. With four levels of regenerative braking you can enjoy a hint of single pedal driving whilst also replenishing your battery. Road noise is almost non existent with ample sound-deadening used between the drivetrain and cabin giving you a hushed driving experience to enjoy the quality infotainment. For us Renault are on a roll now with some fantastic products on the market. From Megane E-Tech to Austral and now Scenic, each have been very impressive to drive. Soon we will see the Rafale and 5 entering the Irish market not to mention 4 EV and Symbioz also rumoured to be on the way. At the time of writing, prices have yet to be confirmed for the new Scenic but we will report back in due course with a full Irish review on our more familiar testing routes. This all new Renault Scenic E-Tech has already scooped the prestigious award for Car of The Year 2024 at the Geneva motor show, and it’s not hard to see why! For Style Class Drive Against Not a lot really!  To check out Renault stock on DoneDeal, 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.

Cost savings associated with owning an electric car: A new study by DoneDeal, Ireland's largest car website, found that 90% of electric car drivers in Ireland have noted that their running costs are cheaper than their previous traditional petrol/diesel cars. This figure is up from 85% in November last year. Amidst the backdrop of a cost of living crisis, this highlights the potential economic benefits associated with owning an electric vehicle. High EV repurchase rate: DoneDeal’s latest consumer survey reveals that 70% of new electric vehicle (EV) drivers in Ireland plan to buy another EV as their next car purchase. This finding highlights a growing commitment to electric mobility in Ireland, aligning with the country's national climate action goals. DoneDeal’s latest insights show that the majority of new EV drivers don’t plan to revert back to traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles and once a person drives a new EV, the majority are converted and don’t look back. Range anxiety remains a concern: Of those surveyed that drive an electric vehicle, 30% noted that their biggest concern since purchasing an EV has been range anxiety. Range anxiety is defined as “worry on the part of a person driving an electric car that the battery will run out of power before the destination or a suitable charging point is reached.” Charging infrastructure and depreciation concerns: 20% of EV drivers noted that the depreciation in value of electric vehicles is their biggest concern whilst 18% of respondents ranked the lack of charging infrastructure in Ireland as their primary worry. Growing EV demand: In January, DoneDeal found that demand for brand new electric vehicles is up 62% YoY compared to the same period last year. Demand for nearly new EVs, that is 1-4 year old models, increased by 70% YoY. Shifting market landscape: The Volkswagen ID.4 retained its position as the most popular new car on DoneDeal in 2024, continuing the dominance seen in 2023. However, with Volkswagen recently launching the ID.7 as its new flagship EV in Ireland, only time will tell whether it will usurp the ID.4 from the top spot. Furthermore, the inclusion of the BYD Seal in the Top 10 marks a significant milestone, representing the first time the model has achieved such recognition. This development reflects the increasing diversity of EV offerings at various price points and highlights the growing presence of emerging Chinese manufacturers in the Irish market.

Škoda Ireland and Certa have recently launched a new joint campaign aimed at encouraging owners and would-be buyers of new diesel cars to use HVO biofuel to lower their motoring carbon emissions by up to 90%.  The leading car brand and one of Ireland’s largest fuel suppliers are partnering on the initiative aimed at creating awareness of the benefits of using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a replacement for diesel. As part of the awareness and promotional campaign, Škoda is providing buyers of diesel Škoda models with a Certa HVO biofuel voucher of either €250 or €500 depending on the model of car purchased. The promotion will apply to cars purchased in the month of March.   HVO biofuel is a relatively new fuel and is usually sold at a slightly higher cost than diesel. Certa currently has an offer which matches the price of HVO with that of diesel. The company, which is part of DCC plc, has also announced plans today to introduce new HVO pumps at more forecourts throughout the country.   Certa is in the process of upgrading its network of 41 unmanned, pay@pump forecourts to offer HVO at all fuel pumps alongside other fuels. HVO is currently available at Certa forecourts in Liffey Valley in Dublin, Lee Tunnel in Cork and Trim in Meath. Certa is planning to have seven more forecourts HVO-ready by the end of this year. The forecourts planned to be fitted with HVO pumps are located in Dundrum, Tallaght and Finglas in Dublin, Maynooth in Kildare, Letterkenny in Donegal and Athlone and Mullingar in Westmeath.    As part of the campaign, Škoda will also run radio, social and outdoor ads effective immediately. The ads and the awareness campaign will seek to alert diesel motorists to the availability and benefits of HVO as an alternative fuel to diesel. HVO is a second generation low-carbon biofuel that serves as a direct replacement for regular diesel without any need for vehicle or engine modifications. It is produced using waste plant-matter and hydrogen, which means it does not release any additional carbon emissions into the atmosphere and can result in a 90% net reduction in CO2 emissions.  HVO is distinguished at fuel pumps through the use of a pink nozzle, which stands out from the black diesel and green petrol ones. In Ireland, HVO is expected to meet a large proportion of the increase in biofuel supply to decarbonise the transport sector and is considered a vital transition fuel as electric powered vehicles continue to become more mainstream.  HVO can be used as a direct replacement for diesel in a wide variety of fleet, plant and machinery equipment in addition to passenger cars. It can also be mixed with diesel in any ratio. The performance of diesel engines using HVO is near identical to when they are fuelled with diesel. As a leading car manufacturer, Škoda is acutely aware that sales of diesel and petrol-powered cars are scheduled to end in 2035 and that pure electric cars are now clearly the best and most sustainable option for new car buyers. The brand already sells hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles as well as two electric-only models, with plans to offer six electric-only models by 2026.    Škoda, however, also recognises the status and potentially important role of HVO as a transition fuel and a cleaner alternative to diesel and, as such, is seeking to encourage both existing owners of diesel cars and any buyers of new diesel cars to consider HVO as an alternative. HVO is recognised by the Irish government as a 100% replacement for conventional diesel with greenhouse gas reduction benefits. Diesel-powered cars accounted for 22% of the passenger car market in 2023, just ahead of electric on 19%. While sales of electric cars have increased and the market share of diesel cars has fallen over time, diesel-powered cars are still favoured by many motorists while there is a high number of diesel cars already in the national fleet. Škoda is a market leader when it comes to diesel passenger car sales with a 22% share of the diesel car market.   As part of the HVO awareness campaign, Škoda has launched an online vehicle checker where owners of diesel Škoda models can enter their registrations to confirm their car’s HVO-readiness. The tracker and more information on HVO can be found online here . Škoda has also confirmed that all new Škoda diesel models will be HVO-ready and all diesel models manufactured from mid-2021 are HVO-ready. While most modern diesels can operate using HVO without any changes, owners are advised to confirm their cars HVO-readiness by contacting their manufacturer.     John Donegan, Brand Director at Škoda Ireland, said: “We are excited to partner with Certa on this campaign, which aims to encourage existing owners or buyers of new diesel cars to use HVO as an alternative to diesel. At Škoda, we recognise the importance of switching to electric cars, but we also recognise that many buyers are still choosing diesel models for a variety of reasons. They may not have access to a home charger, for example, or they may want a car with an extensive range. For these motorists, it makes sense to switch to HVO as the fuel becomes more widely available. We believe diesel car owners will consider this switch if they are made aware of the benefits of HVO and we hope our promotional and marketing campaign will increase awareness among not just Škoda owners, but all owners of diesel cars.”   Andrew Graham, Managing Director of Certa said: “We are delighted to work with Škoda on this campaign. At Certa, our goal is to make it easy for motorists to transition to HVO as a renewable alternative to diesel. HVO’s benefits are well established, so we believe drivers of diesel cars will switch to HVO if they are encouraged to do so and if they understand that it works as a drop-in replacement without the need for modifications. By switching to HVO, these motorists will reduce their own carbon footprint, but they will also help to lower the emissions of the country’s transport sector.   “Most modern diesel cars are HVO-ready, but we would advise all owners to check with the manufacturer of their car to make sure this is the case. Once this is confirmed, all they have to do is  fill up their car using our HVO pumps, which we are now installing alongside existing petrol and diesel pumps at a growing number of our forecourts. As part of the campaign, we have announced our plans to widen the availability of HVO by increasing the number of HVO-ready forecourts from three to ten by year end. As it is a new fuel, HVO is usually sold at a slightly higher price than diesel. This is a small price to pay given the benefits, but at Certa we are currently matching the price of HVO to the price of diesel.”

Buying a used car can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. However, with the right research and preparation, you can find a reliable car that meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate the used car market and make an informed purchase on DoneDeal.ie Understanding The Used Car Market Before you start shopping for a used car, it's important to know which models are popular in Ireland. This can help you make an informed decision and find a car that has a good track record. You can check the DoneDeal web listings and read the DoneDeal Blog or watch our YouTube channel for insights on popular models. Identifying The Best Time To Buy A Used Car Timing is crucial when it comes to buying a used car. Generally, prices are lower during the summer months as demand is lower due to the weather. However, during winter months, prices can be higher as more people are looking for cars. You can also look out for dealer promotions and end-of-year sales through our trusted dealer network. It's worth noting that buying a used car during the summer months can have its advantages. For example, if you are looking for a car that is suitable for winter driving, such as a 4x4 or an SUV, you are more likely to find a good deal during the summer months when demand is lower and vice versa for the likes of a convertible. Another factor to consider when buying a used car is the age of the car. Generally, the older the car, the lower the price. However, it's important to remember that older cars may require more maintenance and repairs, which can add to the overall cost of ownership. On the other hand, newer cars may be more expensive, but they may come with a warranty or service plan, which can save you money in the long run. Ultimately, the best time to buy a used car depends on your individual needs and preferences. By doing your research and keeping an eye out for deals and promotions, you can find a great used car that meets your needs and fits your budget. Setting Your Budget & Financing Options Knowing your budget is crucial before embarking on the journey of purchasing a used car. It's essential to avoid overspending and ensure that you can afford the car you choose. However, setting a budget is not just about determining how much you can afford to spend on the car itself. It's also important to factor in other expenses that come with owning a car, such as insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. When setting your budget, it's always a good idea to do some research and find out the average prices of the cars that you're interested in. This will help you set a realistic budget and avoid overpaying for a vehicle. You can easily use DoneDeal to compare prices and find the best deal. Exploring Financing Options If you're considering financing your used car, it's essential to explore your options and find the best deal. Financing a car is a significant financial commitment, so it's crucial to find a competitive offer that meets your needs. One option for financing your car is to go through a bank or credit union. They often offer lower interest rates than dealerships, and you can get pre-approved for a loan before you start shopping for a car. Another option is to finance through the dealership. Many dealerships offer financing options, and some even have special deals and promotions. When exploring financing options, it's crucial to read the terms and conditions carefully. Be sure to factor in the interest rate and fees when comparing different offers. It's also essential to consider the length of the loan and your monthly payments. You want to make sure that you can comfortably afford the payments and that the loan term fits your needs. Overall, setting your budget and exploring financing options are essential steps in the car-buying process. By doing your research and being mindful of your finances, you can find the best deal and ensure that you're making a wise investment. What Exactly Is PCP and Is It Available On Used Cars? PCP is a purchase plan, so it’s geared towards you owning the car at some point. It is not a lease deal even though the option to walk away is available; your initial deposit/equity will be lost. It is predominately offered on new cars but many dealerships are now offering PCP for used stock also. It works best if you are happy to stay with one brand and you secure a lower percentage on your repayments. If you don’t, a finance or lease plan might be a better option. Choosing The Right Car For Your Needs When buying a used car, it's important to consider your lifestyle and driving habits. For example, if you have a long commute, a fuel-efficient car would be ideal. If you have a family, a spacious car with ample legroom and storage space would be more suitable. Assess your needs and choose a car that suits you. Comparing Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs Fuel efficiency and running costs are essential to consider before you make a purchase. This will help you save money in the long run and avoid high maintenance costs. You can check the car's fuel economy rating and research the cost of parts and repairs online. Finding a Reputable Seller When buying a used car on DoneDeal , you can choose to buy from a dealership or a private seller. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Dealerships tend to offer more variety and financing options but may be more expensive. Private sellers may offer lower prices but will not offer warranties or financing options. The DoneDeal Trusted Dealer Programme celebrates exceptional dealers by displaying a trust badge on their stock, signifying that they are a dealership where people can buy with confidence. Find out more about the programme here Reading reviews and asking for recommendations Before you buy a car from a seller, it's important to do your research and read reviews on our DoneDeal Blog or watch our video reviews on the DoneDeal YouTube channel. This will help you get a sense of the vehicle in question so you are better prepared to try do a deal. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have purchased a used car in the past to gather more information. Inspecting the Car Before you buy a used car, it's important to inspect the car's exterior and interior condition. Look out for signs of wear and tear, scratches, dents, and rust. Check the windows, doors, and locks, and make sure everything is in good condition. When inspecting a used car, it's important to check the car's mechanical condition. Take the car for a test drive and check the brakes, engine, steering, and suspension. Be sure to listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. You can also hire a mechanic to inspect the car before making a purchase if you are unsure. Where possible always make sure a valid NCT certificate is in place proving the cars roadworthiness. By following these 10 tips, you can make an informed purchase and find a reliable used car that meets your needs and fits your budget. Start the search for your next car today on DoneDeal

Fraudsters are targeting online sellers with a number of different scams relating to payments, delivery & bank transfers. Bank Transfer Scams This scam involves fraudsters using a fake banking app to take money from DoneDeal customers who advertise their goods online. Fraudsters, posing as potential buyers, share a screenshot of a bank transfer using a fake app, falsely claiming that the money for the item has been transferred into your bank account. How to avoid this scam Never hand over goods until you have received payment confirmation If receiving money into your bank account, check your account online to see if the money has been transferred before parting with any goods. Do not trust Payment & Delivery Scams Fraudsters are sending fake Whatsapp and text messages targeting DoneDeal sellers with payment & delivery scams. What is a payment & delivery scam? Payment & delivery scam messages come from fake “buyers” and typically claim that they want to buy the item you have listed for sale and arrange delivery and payment via courier. They then ask you to follow a link they have sent you and to enter your bank or credit card details in order to receive the money they claim to have paid the courier, after which point you will be paid for your item. This is a payment and delivery scam. Legitimate buyers will never send emails or text messages requiring DoneDeal sellers to: Send credit/debit card or bank details Arrange payment & delivery via a postal or courier service (An Post, DHL, Fastway) Share personal information Share user IDs, PIN numbers or passwords. How to identify a scam message These messages may be unrelated to the goods you have advertised If the web address has more than one full stop “.” or hyphen “-” or has a strange make up. www.an.post.ie rather than www.anpost.ie Scammers can ask you to click a link to arrange delivery and/or accept payment via a courier service. Do not click the link or proceed. Scam text or WhatsApp messages often come from mobile numbers outside Ireland starting with a different national code. Example of some WhatsApp scams currently targeting DoneDeal sellers Example 1: An Post Delivery Scam The seller receives a WhatsApp message claiming they want to buy an item and want to arrange delivery via An Post. The alleged buyer shares a link claiming to be from the An Post website. When the link is clicked it leads to a page that looks like a legitimate website with payment details and chat options. The seller is asked to input card details to receive payment and arrange delivery. To help you identify this scam , here is a real life example experienced by one of our users: Example 2: DoneDeal Delivery Scam The seller receives a WhatsApp message claiming they want to buy an item and want to arrange delivery via DoneDeal. DoneDeal delivery does not exist, this is a fake service created by the scammers. The alleged buyer shares a link claiming to be from DoneDeal. When the link is clicked it leads to a page that looks like a legitimate DoneDeal web page. If you receive a suspicious Whatsapp or text message: Do not - respond to the message Never - share card details with buyers Do not - click on any links, disclose your personal or financial details Do - report the matter to our Customer Support Team immediately Do - note the phone number, take a screenshot of the message and send it to us to investigate Do - delete the message and block the person from your phone. If you have already disclosed your personal banking details, please let your bank know immediately. Change your password details in your DoneDeal account. For more information on how to stay safe while using DoneDeal please read through our Safety Tips Not what you were looking for? Contact our Customer Support   team today.

The hybrid version of the Alfa Romeo Junior, the Ibrida, has had its prices announced for the Irish market, with the base price matching that of the fully electric version, which launched in Ireland last month. Already available with 156hp or 280hp electric powertrains, Alfa Romeo now gives customers the flexibility to choose the configuration that best suits their mobility needs and personal preferences, all while maintaining the brand’s signature sportiness and efficiency. The new Junior Speciale Ibrida comes with a 136hp 48-V Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) powertrain. Its electric system includes a 48-volt lithium-ion battery and a 21-kW electric motor integrated into a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This setup works in harmony with the inverter and transmission control unit for maximum efficiency. The Junior Ibrida provides a smooth driving experience, allowing for more than 50% electric driving in urban areas. Electric driving is not limited to low speeds or parking maneuvers but extends to highway driving with limited load, reaching up to 150 km/h. The Ibrida features the iconic Leggenda scudetto grille, 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, LED headlamps and taillamps, gloss black mirror covers, rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, and keyless go. Inside, it boasts Icona seats in black/blue cloth, eight-colour ambient lighting illuminating the air vents and central tunnel, a 10.25-inch configurable Cannocchiale instrument cluster, and a 10.25-inch central screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The rear seats fold 60/40 for added practicality. Safety systems include Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, e-Call, and Alfa Romeo Connected Services. This week also saw the unveiling of the Q4 system at the international media drive for the Junior Ibrida Q4, the all-wheel-drive version of the Junior. The Q4 offers enhanced control and performance in all conditions while maintaining low weight and high efficiency. Its 48-V hybrid system pairs a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 145hp. The Junior Ibrida Q4 is also equipped with MultiLink rear suspension, ensuring superior comfort and driving pleasure. The introduction of the Ibrida and Ibrida Q4 completes the Junior model launch, now available in 38 countries, with 30,000 orders already placed globally, 19% of which were for the full-electric version. Prices for the Junior Ibrida in Ireland will start at €34,995, matching the fully electric “Elettrica” version. Orders will open later this month at Alfa Romeo dealerships, with availability and pricing for the Q4 version to be announced later this year. For more details, visit www.alfaromeo.ie .

We recently visited the new Renault Store at Dundrum Town Centre to see the iconic Renault 5, which is now available at dealerships nationwide. Since opening in mid-January, the Renault Store has attracted over 20,000 visitors, offering an immersive experience into the world of "new" Renault. By presenting its latest models in innovative ways, Renault is emphasising its commitment to the electric vehicle market. Located on Level 1 of Dundrum Town Centre, the store welcomes visitors every day of the week to explore the new range of Renault EVs. Renault experts are on hand to offer advice on EV ownership, including topics like charging, range, and everyday practicality. For those eager to see the 2025 Car of the Year up close, the Renault Store provides a great opportunity. Voted Car of the Year 2025 in January by the European Car of the Year jury, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric earned the prestigious title. This recognition follows Renault's success with the Scenic E-Tech Electric, which won Car of the Year 2024. The fully electric Renault 5 E-Tech is now available in dealerships nationwide, with prices starting at a competitive €25,995 or €225 per month on PCP finance. The Renault 5 E-Tech comes with two battery options: a 40kWh and a 52kWh, offering various power outputs. The entry-level 40kWh battery, paired with a 120bhp electric motor, provides a range of up to 310km WLTP. Customers can choose from three trims: Evolution, Techno, and Iconic, with pricing starting at €25,995 for the Evolution, €27,995 for the Techno, and €29,995 for the top-spec Iconic. All prices include the SEAI grant. Standard features across all trims include Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, an Arkamys speaker system, and automatic LED lights. The Evolution trim includes a 7-inch digital driver display, a 10.1-inch OpenR Link multimedia system, rear parking sensors, and an electric parking brake. The Techno trim adds diamond-cut alloy wheels, Google Built-in, EV Route Planning, a rearview camera, and heated door mirrors. The range-topping Iconic trim comes with Chrono Diamond Cut alloy wheels, hands-free parking, heated seats, and an advanced driver assistance system with intelligent adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. The more powerful 52kWh battery, paired with a 150bhp electric motor, extends the driving range to 410km. This option is available in the Techno trim, priced from €30,995, and the flagship Iconic trim, starting at €32,995. Five vibrant body colours are offered, including two iconic 1970s-inspired shades: Pop Yellow! and Pop Green!, both with a sparkling finish. The other available colours are Pearl White, Starry Black, and Midnight Blue. Two-tone paintwork with a Starry Black roof is available on the Iconic and Techno trims. All models come with 18-inch wheels as standard. The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric features a new 11 kW AC bi-directional charger with V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability. With V2L, you can power a 220V appliance (up to 3,700W) directly from your car’s battery using a simple adapter. The 11 kW charger, standard on all versions, allows for a 15% to 80% charge of the 52kWh battery in just 3 hours and 13 minutes. For on-the-go charging, the car’s 100kW DC fast charging capability charges the battery from 15% to 80% in just 30 minutes. The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is set to be a game changer here in Ireland and we are looking forward to spending a week with the vehicle in coming weeks.