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Here are the full results of South Africa’s first open-road EV range test

vuyi on February 22, 2022

Exactly how far is an electric car able to travel on a single charge in real-world South African conditions at a steady 120 km/h?

A new benchmark evaluation answers this very question, putting three locally available electric vehicles (EVs) – the Jaguar I-Pace, BMW i3s and MINI Cooper SE – to the test in a first-of-its-kind, simulated open-road range assessment.

This inaugural test which took place at the Gerotek High Speed Oval in November 2021, sets a national benchmark for each of the three battery-powered variants. It lays down a historical reference point to look back on and allows consumers to evaluate battery performance advancements as more EVs are added to the local market each year.

While the maximum claimed range of any given EV is well advertised, the new test provides an indication of just how far consumers would be able to go on a single charge if they were driving non-stop at the national speed limit on a characteristically hot day in South Africa.

Whereas the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) cycle that automakers use to calculate advertised range includes a combination of urban, suburban, rural and highway driving scenarios, as well as prescribed acceleration phases and a set number of stops, the Annual South African Electric Car Test, which was charged by AutoTrader, concentrates solely on open-road driving.

It thus removes regenerative braking – a recovery system that redirects what would otherwise be lost kinetic energy back into the battery during deceleration, boosting overall range and rendering EVs especially well-suited to stop-start city driving – entirely from the equation.

Considering it has the greatest net battery capacity at 84.7 kWh (this is effectively the usable portion of the standard 90 kWh pack) and a claimed upper-end range of 470 km, it’s little surprise the Jaguar I-Pace achieved the most impressive distance on the day, circling the Gerotek High Speed Oval in Gauteng for a total of 277 km, 311 m at a true average speed of 119.9 km/h.

This sort of range could be equated to driving from Johannesburg to Pretoria and back twice, with plenty of mileage to spare.

According to PlugShare, there are as many as 71 charging points within a 3.2 km radius between these two points, illustrating the fact that South Africa’s larger metropolitan areas are better stocked with charging options than many might believe.

The BMW i3s e-drive REx (the test was conducted with this derivative’s range-extender fuel tank emptied) finished on 168 km, 527 m, with its GPS-verified average speed settling on 120.02 km/h, while the MINI Cooper SE was just behind on 147 km, 730 m at a true average speed of 119 km/h.

With net battery capacities of 37.9 kWh and 28.9 kWh and advertised ranges of 285 km and 215 km respectively, these two new-energy hatchbacks are designed to excel at city driving rather than out on the open road, so their final results are by no means underwhelming, particularly when one considers the average daily commute for South African car drivers is a mere 22 km one way.

The three sub-R2.5 million EVs available to purchase in South Africa at the time of the inaugural open-road simulation were driven in their respective eco modes – Eco for the I-Pace, Eco Pro in the case of the i3s and Green for the Cooper SE – from a fully charged state, with each one’s air-conditioning system set at 21°C on auto (the ambient temperature at the track on the day was recorded as 28°C).

“While we believe it’s important to set an official benchmark in South African conditions rather than relying on typically cooler European testing scenarios, our broader aim is simply to educate local consumers.

Range anxiety is a hurdle many potential buyers face and this test will help them form a better understanding of the variations in range when it comes to EVs,” explains AutoTrader’s CEO, George Mienie.

“Owing to our familiarity with traditional petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles, we’re used to equating stop-start city driving with high fuel consumption, and highway cruising with better economy, but the opposite proves true for electric cars. This is the sort of interesting information the test highlights, helping inform consumers as EVs become more widespread in our market,” concludes Mienie.

10 safety tips for driving in the wind

vuyi on February 21, 2022

Strong windy conditions create dangerous driving conditions, particularly if accompanied by hail or rain.

To help keep you safe, we have created a list of tips to help keep you safe should you find yourself driving in windy conditions.

Always check the weather forecast before embarking on a long trip as they may issue a warning relating to high winds or stormy conditions along your journey.

Keep your windows closed as drag can hamper your progress while allowing debris, dust, and other objects into the vehicle as these will affect safety and visibility.
Reduce your speed and be alert as you may need to stop unexpectedly.
Keep an eye out for uprooted trees/branches, and debris that may have been blown onto the road.
Keep an eye out for people, cyclists, motorcyclists, and children who may be hurriedly seeking shelter.
Be prepared for people and animals who cannot hear your horn in these types of conditions.
If you are carrying cargo, make sure it is securely tied down.
Keep your distance to allow other motorists the time and space to avoid obstacles on the road.
Turn on your headlights to intensify your visibility as well as to increase the chances of other motorists seeing you.
Heavy wind can make it difficult to handle and steer a vehicle, so it is a good idea to keep your hands on the wheel at all times.
Be aware of large cargo vehicles, buses, and vehicle towing trailers as there are vulnerable to losing control or tipping over in high winds.

Remember that the best safety feature at your disposal is your own sense of safety. If you don’t feel confident driving in windy conditions, pull over as soon as you can and wait for the wind to die down.

Reader Query: What causes a tyre to bounce?

vuyi on February 17, 2022

By Vuyi Mpofu

We receive a lot of queries via email and social media from readers enquiring about various aspects of motoring. Rather than answer each individually, we have decided to share the queries here as there may be other readers faced with similar car problems.

Palesa Mokoena* of Diepkloof, Soweto sent us this query….

When driving on the highway, I have noticed that some cars have at least one tyre that bounces up and down like a tennis ball. It looks scary and dangerous but I wonder what causes this and how I can make sure I don’t have a bouncy tyre too!
Palesa Mokoena

Let’s start off by saying that the only contact you have with the road’s surface is a small patch of rubber which is about the size of the palm of your hand. That patch of rubber, multiplied by 4 to represent the number of tyres your car has, is all that keeps your car on the ground. If one tyre constantly bounces, then the driver of that vehicle only has 3 ‘palms of rubber’ in touch with the ground.

Based on Palesa’s description, we believe that that a bouncing tyre presents an extremely dangerous situation and here’s why.

Main cause of bouncing tyre: Worn or broken shock absorbers

The most likely cause of the bouncing tyre are worn or broken shock absorbers. Next to your braking system, the shock absorbers are probably the next most important safety item on a car. Not only do shock absorbers serve to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, but they also control the movement of the suspension of a car, allowing you to effectively control the vehicle.

When one or more tyres are not in constant contact with the road, your ability to control the vehicle becomes critically compromised, particularly when you attempt to steer or brake.

Shock absorbers which need to be replaced can result in the following:

Loss of traction – which increases stopping distance and negatively affects control and acceleration.
Tyre cupping / Uneven tyre wear and tear – which shortens the life and performance of the tyres and can also increase road noise.
Body roll (side-to-side movement) – which negatively impacts the car’s handling and your ability to control it optimally.
Bottoming out when going over bumps – which results in the premature wear and tear of the car’s suspension components.
Nosediving (the bonnet of the car dips upon deceleration) – which results in premature front-brake wear.
Acceleration squat (the rear of the vehicle drops upon acceleration) – which adversely affects traction, vehicle handling and control.

Source: Gabriel

If you suspect that your tyres may be bouncy, then we suggest you have your suspension system checked as soon as possible.

Alternatively, you can occasionally ask someone to watch each of them as you drive. Just make sure you are on a fairly straight road with very little traffic on it – to be on the safe side.

*Name has been changed

Is It Safe To Drive On A Cracked Rim?

vuyi on February 16, 2022

By Vuyi Mpofu

Even though rims are generally sturdy, they aren’t immune to getting damaged and can result in blow-outs.

There is a joke which says that if you drive in a straight line on any road in South Africa, chances are you are intoxicated; whereas if you drive haphazardly are you are most likely to be sober. Why? Well, when you zig-zag across the road the assumption is that you are avoiding potholes.

Cracked rims are just as much of a threat to your safety and the overall performance of your car as any other component of your vehicle. Sometimes, it is quite easy to spot a crack on the rim but at other times, the crack can be quite fine, making it difficult to spot.

Either way, most motorists may be unaware that there is a problem, hence it is important to regularly check the integrity of your vehicle every other day and even more so before going on a long-distance drive.

Common causes of rim damage

It may not always be possible to avoid damaging a rim but to avoid costly repairs, here are a few things you might want to steer (pun intended) clear of.

Hitting a pothole

Potholes are the bane of our lives. They vary in width and depth and should always be approached cautiously particularly because they are a serious threat to the longevity of a car’s tyres and rims.

A lethal combination of the speed of a car, coupled with the depth, width and sharpness of the edge of a pothole has been known to rip a tyre right off its rim; shredding it almost instantly on point of contact.

At other times, the damage is not as visible to the naked eye but can reveal itself over time.

2. Driving on a flat or poorly inflated tyre

A properly inflated tyre can absorb impact from bumps and other anomalies on the road. However, a tyre that has low pressure will not absorb any impact from any irregularities on the road’s surface. Instead, the force of such impact will hit the rim directly thereby causing damage such as cracks or dings.

3. Driving over a curb

On roads such as ours which are, in some instances, devoid of even the faintest remnants of paint, one can occasionally drive over an unmarked curb or similar hard shoulder. This is more prevalent when driving on unfamiliar or poorly lit roads.

How can I tell if my rim is damaged?

A visual inspection of your tyres and rim is one way to check the health of your wheels.
Another is noticing a continuous vibration through the steering wheel or an unfamiliar sound emanating from the direction of the affected wheel.
Lastly, when you notice that your tyres can no longer retain pressure for long, forcing you to pump them more often than normal, chances are there is a problem with your wheels.

Is it safe to drive with a cracked rim?

My quick and short answer is no.

No matter how small or fine the crack might be, it would be best to have the rim replaced as soon as possible. Cracks on your rim are a hazard and can jeopardize your safety and that of other motorists around you.

The smallest crack could either grow over time or widen exponentially at the slight of impacts. In either scenario, where there is a crack on your rim there is a very real possibility that the air from our tyres could escape abruptly and without warning. Should this happen, even the most skilled drivers would have a hard time controlling the vehicle.

If you suspect that you have a cracked or bent rim, it is best to have it attended to immediately. Remember that your rim holds your car’s tyres and that the only contact you have with the road is about the size of the palm of your hand.

Should there be an abnormality on your rim, then suffice it to say there will be an abnormality with your tyres, causing a ripple effect which could result in a tyre blow-out, serious injury, expensive damage to your vehicle and at worst – death.

It’s better to be safe – and out of pocket due to having replaced a rim – than injured or sorry.

Here is the pricing of VW’s popular Polo DSG derivatives

vuyi on February 14, 2022

By H&H Admin

The Polo 1.0 TSI 70kW manual and Polo GTI derivatives went on sale at the beginning of January 2022 and from the end of February 2022, South Africans will now be able to purchase the Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG.

The Polo Life 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG comes standard with a digital dashboard display, Park Distance Control (front and rear), electric folding mirrors, lumbar support for the driver and front passenger, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles as well as 15-inch Essex alloy wheels.

The Polo R-Line 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG distinguishes itself from the other Polo versions by its striking ‘R’ design. In addition to the standard features of the Polo Life, the Polo R-Line is offered with 16-inch Valencia alloy wheels, Composition Media infotainment system with inductive mobile charging and a two-zone climatronic air-conditioning system.

Recommended Retail Price (VAT and emissions tax included)

Polo 1.0 TSI 70kW Manual R311 800

Polo Life 1.0 TSI 70kW Manual R350 000

Polo Life 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG R370 700

Polo R-Line 1.0 TSI 85kW DSG R421 900

Polo GTI 2.0 TSI 147kW DSG R489 400

The new Volkswagen Polo comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 3 year/ 45 000km EasyDrive Service Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.

The service interval is 15 000km. Customers have the option to extend EasyDrive Maintenance and EasyDrive Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000km.

Good start to the new year with impressive January car sales figures

vuyi on February 2, 2022

By H&H Admin

An increase in the cost of living at the start of 2022 did not discourage South Africans from buying new vehicles during January.

South Africans were faced with fuel price hikes and another increase in interest rates as the new year started, but that didn’t deter them from buying new vehicles during January.

According to naamsa | the Automotive Business Council, January new vehicle sales increased 19.5% to 41,382 units compared to the start of 2021, creating a solid start to the year and the market’s continued recovery.

“January new vehicle sales kicked off the year at similar levels to the momentum created during the second half of 2021,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank, referring to four months of sales in the period exceeding 41,000 units. “While some purchase decisions may have been deferred out of December into the new year, January sales provide a solid start to the year, raising the hopes of manufacturers and dealers for ongoing market improvement.”

While year-on-year comparisons remain difficult to interpret because of differing pandemic circumstances, WesBank remained positive for a continued slow recovery of the market during 2022.

Both passenger cars and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) started the year positively, increasing 26.6% and 3.8% respectively. Dealer sales in the passenger car space out-stripped the overall market, increasing 33.7%, a very positive sign of consumer demand.

Sales into the rental market also indicate an increase in business confidence and a more positive outlook to tourism with sales in the channel up 21% during January.

“While gradual interest rate hikes are inevitable over the course of the year from their record lows, their impact should be considered within purchase decisions and affordability,” says Gaoaketse. “Rising costs of living amidst more slowly recovering earnings are expected to continue placing pressure on household incomes and the wherewithal for consumers to afford new vehicles during 2022. But price inflation in the pre-owned market and necessary replacement cycles some two years after the onset of the pandemic should be expected to fuel demand.”

Spotted! Volvo’s all-electric XC40 P8 Recharge on South African roads

vuyi on January 26, 2022

The highly anticipated Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge, which sits at the helm of the XC40 range has landed in South Africa.

The highly anticipated Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge has been spotted on South African roads, marking the local arrival of the Swedish firm’s first all-electric vehicle (EV).

A mere four days after Volvo opened the order books for the battery-powered XC40 in May 2021, all initial slots were sold out. Now the first example has been handed over to its excited owner at the Tom Campher Volvo Cars dealership in Johannesburg.

In order to meet growing local demand, Volvo Car South Africa has secured an additional allocation of units, with orders now being taken and deliveries expected in June 2022. The XC40 P8 Recharge, which sits at the summit of the popular XC40 range is priced at R1.2 million and is sold exclusively online via the automaker’s innovative My Volvo website.

Greg Maruszewski, Managing Director at Volvo Car South Africa, says the purchase of the brand’s first pure electric model comes with all manner of additional benefits.

“The XC40 P8 Recharge ships standard with the Volvo CARE package, which includes not only a five-year maintenance plan and warranty – with the battery pack covered for eight years or 160 000 km – but also three years of comprehensive insurance, use of a petrol-powered vehicle for a two week holiday every year for three years, a home charging wallbox, and all the requisite charge cables,” explains Maruszewski.

As a reminder, Volvo says the electric compact SUV – which forms part of the broader Recharge range which made up 27 per cent of the company’s total sales volume in 2021– is able to travel up to 418 km on a single charge, with 80% of its battery capacity replenished in just 40 minutes when using a fast charger.

Fitted with twin electric motors and a 78 kWh battery pack, the XC40 P8 Recharge boasts lofty peak outputs of 304 kW and 660 Nm. With power directed to all four wheels, the XC40 P8 Recharge is capable of seeing off the obligatory 0-100 km/h sprint in a mere 4.9 seconds.In true Volvo form, the automaker’s first EV is crammed full of standard safety equipment, including various driver assistance features, and shares its five-star Euro NCAP rating with its combustion-engined siblings

VWSA welcomes Marubini Raphulu as newest Non-Executive Director

vuyi on January 25, 2022

Press Release: Volkswagen Group South Africa

Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has welcomed Marubini Raphulu to their Board of Management.

Raphulu, who serves as a non-executive Director, joined the Board effective 1 December 2021. He is an entrepreneur with extensive experience across various industries, including the energy sector. His most recent role was as the Chief Executive Officer of Hulisani, a company he also co-founded.

In addition to this, Raphulu is an admitted attorney. He holds a B.Proc. and LLB degree, as well as an LLM degree in Tax.

Raphulu is one of two non-executive Directors currently serving on the VWSA Board of Management. The Board also welcomed Reverend Nomgando Matyumza as non-executive Board member in March 2020.

“We are proud to welcome Mr Raphulu to our Board of Management, and we firmly believe our business will benefit greatly from his input,” said VWSA Chairman and Managing Director Robert Cisek.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa announces introduction of five full Battery Electric Vehicles

vuyi on January 24, 2022

By H&H Admin

Through the introduction and inauguration of Mercedes-EQ to the South African market – the all-electric world of Mercedes-Benz and the brand which represents all electric powered vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has provided further proof that the age of electric mobility has arrived.

Five new models from the global Mercedes-EQ range will be launched during the course of 2022 in South Africa as part of a clear strategic push to position the brand as a global and local leader in the electric vehicle market.

The range for 2022 includes the EQA SUV, the family-sized SUV EQB, The mid-sized EQC, based on the GLC platform, the electric business sedan EQE and the luxury sedan EQS. These fully electric vehicles from the Mercedes-EQ family are part of a transformation that’s gaining momentum rapidly.

Mercedes- EQS world premiere with Alicia Keys

Leading in electric drive and digitization is a key pillar of the Mercedes-Benz strategy that was announced by Mark Raine, newly appointed President of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The new strategy aims to leverage the brand’s strengths in the luxury space, while unlocking the full potential of its unique speciality brands, namely AMG, Maybach, and EQ.

From L-R : Selvin Govender, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Mark Raine, President of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa

Market and network readiness

Raine is confident that South Africa will see a strong uptake and growth in the luxury electric vehicle market in the next 12-24 months. “Technology is the key to engineering a sustainable future. As the leading premium luxury automotive brand, we are once again leading the way into the future of the automobile and mobility as a whole”.

Raine announced that Mercedes-Benz Cars will collaborate with Grid Cars for public charging, and that every EQ customer will additionally receive a complimentary Mercedes-EQ wall charger, installed at a location of their choice.

Raine added that 36 of its Agent partners across South Africa have been appointed as Retail and Service partners for Mercedes-EQ, which will add to the public charging grid and also provide highly trained professionals both at sales and aftersales levels to help overcome any reservations around issues like range anxiety.

The new Mercedes-EQ range

Selvin Govender, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, stated that the “Mercedes-EQ range will provide benchmark performance for South African’s in the EV space. The EQ-design language of “sensual purity” combined with “progressive luxury” is highlighted by the specific exterior and interior design elements, and are completed by an EV-service ecosystem”.

EQA: all-electric dynamic sports SUV

The EQA is a dynamic, all-electric sport SUV. A close relation of the GLA, it delivers all the characteristics of that vehicle, combined with an efficient electric powertrain.

The EQA 250 derivative will be available for the South African market, with a power output of 140KW, a range of up to 412km (WLTP) and a combined electrical consumption of 17.7kWh/100km.

The EQB: all-electric family size SUV

The new EQB is an iconic electric SUV which incorporates the square forms of Mercedes-Benz off-roaders and projects them into the future. Whether it’s for a large nuclear family (7-Seat option available) or a small extended family, the new EQB offers space for many family configurations and a wide variety of transport needs. This gives it an exceptional position among compact electric cars.

This all-electric compact SUV will be available in the form of the EQB 350 4MATIC derivative. This all-wheel drive model offers a power output of 215KW, a range of up to 419km and a combined electrical consumption of 17.4kWh/100km.

EQC: all-electric mid-sized SUV

The EQC was the first car to be produced by Mercedes-Benz in the line of the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz EQ family with a battery electric drivetrain. It marked the start of the transfer of Mercedes-Benz towards future electric mobility.

This all-wheel drive model offers a power output of 300KW, a range of up to 437 km*(WLTP) and a combined electrical consumption of 21.3kWh/100km *(WLTP).

The EQE: all-electric business sedan

The new EQE offers all the essential functions of the range topping EQS in a slightly more compact format. The EQE’s interior dimensions even exceed those of today’s E-Class, carrying the concept of the business sedan into the future.

The EQS: all-electric luxury sedan

The first all-electric premium sedan from Mercedes-EQ, the EQS redefines the luxury vehicle segment. The innovative and holistic design is based on a new vehicle architecture which fuses technology, design, functionality and connectivity, delighting both drivers and passengers.

With ranges up to 780 kilometres and an output of up to 385 kW. The first models to come onto the market are the 245kW EQS 450+, with combined electrical consumption of 18.9-16.2 kWh/100 km.

We will share pricing and other details once it is made available to us

Mistubishi’s Popular ASX Range Gets Two New Siblings

vuyi on January 20, 2022

By H&H Admin

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA) is making its range of sought-after vehicles accessible to a wider customer base with the introduction of a new ES specification level for the popular ASX. Slotting in below the two existing models, and badged as LS variants, there are now two new ES derivatives in either manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The ASX ES models cater to customers who put a premium on value for money but demand a proven crossover SUV with the best possible combination of attractive design, advanced technology, spaciousness, fuel economy and competitive pricing.

“The ASX was first introduced in South Africa in 2011 and since its launch, over 9300 units have been sold in South Africa, making it the most successful model for the brand in the last decade. The ASX has also opened the Mitsubishi brand to younger families seeking access to the legendary Mitsubishi way of life. The addition of the two ES models with revised specification levels now places this lifestyle within reach of buyers for whom affordability is a greater consideration,” explains Jeffrey Allison, General Manager: Marketing at MMSA.

Apart from featuring the same powertrain combinations as the LS models, the ES additions boast the same striking exterior styling, spacious interior, upgraded seats and advanced mechanics. These include

Exterior

Key exterior features include:
LED headlights
LED daytime running lights (DRL),
LED fog lamps
electrically adjustable foldaway mirrors
LED brake lights,
LED taillights,
LED reverse lights
Rear spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp

Interior

Electric windows all round
Fabric upholstery
Manual air-conditioning.
Radio/CD player
Touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay (Android Auto is available as an option).
USB and accessory sockets
Bluetooth connectivity with hands-free voice control
Cruise control

Performance

The new ES models use the same engine as their LS siblings, being Mitsubishi’s 2.0L MIVEC aluminium powerplant, which offers 110 kW at 6 000 r/min and peak torque of 197 Nm at 4 200 r/min.

As with the LS specification level, the ES is available with a five-speed manual transmission or CVT.

The ASX boasts a towing capacity of 1 260 kg (braked) for the manual transmission and 750 kg for the CVT (unbraked), making it a great getaway partner for families who seek adventure outside of the city.

Safety

As with all Mitsubishi products, safety features abound in ASX ES models.

These include hill start assist (HSA) and active stability and traction control (ASTC), as well as anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake assist (BAS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).

Mitsubishi’s RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body construction, which provides superior all-direction collision safety design, is supplemented by side impact protection beams, a collapsible steering column, brake pedal recession protection and whiplash injury reduction seats to ensure optimal occupant safety.

Driver, passenger and knee airbags as well as ISOFIX child seat anchor points are also standard as part of the package.

ASX ES models also boast rear park distance control and a keyless operating system with a unique smart key that works within a 70 cm radius from the vehicle for easy locking and unlocking.

Once inside, the driver can start the engine with the simple touch of a button.

Warranty and service

The ASX range is covered by Mitsubishi’s three-year/100 000 km manufacturer warranty, a three-year /60 000 km service plan and three-year/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km or once a year.

“The ASX has proven itself to be a youthful, urbanised crossover SUV for those who appreciate quality, capability, practicality and versatility in a vehicle. With the introduction of the ES models, more South Africans will now be able to benefit from Mitsubishi’s impressive SUV heritage and unrivalled reputation, while enjoying enhanced affordability and value for money,” concluded Allison.

Pricing


ASX 2.0 ES Manual	R 369 995
ASX 2.0 ES CVT	R 389 995
ASX 2.0 LS Manual	R 419 995
ASX 2.0 LS CVT	R 439 995

How To Help Your Aging Parents Drive For Longer

vuyi on January 20, 2022

By H&H Admin

For senior citizens, being able to drive represents freedom but as we get older our abilities to drive change as well.

Senior citizens are at risk of declining cognitive and motor skills, and should you notice that your parents’ car has an increasing number of scratches and dents, you may have something to worry about. As an adult child, how can you set your mind at ease about your aging parent’s ability to drive?

Here are a few ways you can assess their driving skills.

Ride Along For An Informal Driving Assessment

A non-intrusive and polite way to check out your parents’ driving abilities is by taking a drive with them. Just get into the car and observe how they get about.

Look out for the use of seatbelts, indicators and observe if they check their side mirrors before changing lanes. Also, note their speed and attitude behind the wheel. Are they confident, nervous, or aggressive? Do they notice and adhere to the rules of the road? Similarly important, do they seem to struggle with their eyesight or is their vision seemingly alright?

Keep Fit

Encourage your aging parents to stay as physically active as possible. Exercise improves strength and flexibility which translates to a better and safer driver. Driving is a physical activity and exercise makes it easier to look over one’s shoulder to check blind spots, turn the steering wheel, park and reverse.

Exercises such as walking and stretching all work together to improve mobility.

Install Vehicle Safety Devices

There are a number of inexpensive devices adults can install into their aging parents’ vehicles for added peace of mind. These include larger-than-standard side mirrors to help eliminate blind spots, larger rear-view mirrors, front and rear park sensors, or booster seats to help shorter drivers see better.

Stick To Regular Vision and Hearing Tests

Some senses decline with age such as vision and hearing, both of which are necessary for safe driving. Remind senior drivers to keep their headlights, windscreens and mirrors clean and to turn up the brightness on the instrument panel. Common age-related vision impairments such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts can have long-term devastating implications if not identified as early as possible.

Should an elderly driver show signs of hearing loss, a good hearing aid may help the situation. However, remind senior drivers to be aware when opening the windows when driving as the draft impair a hearing aid’s effectiveness.

Encourage your aging parents to stick to their health care tests and examinations, even if they feel fine at the time.

Manage Medication

Be aware of the medication your parents are taking and ensure that you and them understand how these can affect their ability to drive as some pain killers may cause drowsiness.

Prescription marijuana can also have adverse effects on an elderly person’s ability to drive. If your aging parent needs to be mobile while on medication, consult their health care provider and discuss alternatives.

Drive At Certain Times Of The Day

Elderly drives can improve their safety by driving only when there is good weather, on quiet roads, during daylight hours, in off-peak traffic times and in familiar places.

Asides from road and weather conditions, adult children should remind their parents not to drive when they are upset, angry, or tired.

Accept Your Limits

As difficult as it may be for your parents to accept that they are indeed aging and that their bodies are changing, it is important that you do your best to help them understand and accept their mental and physical limitations.

For example, arthritis can make holding the steering wheel or changing gears difficult. In such instances, opting for a vehicle with an automatic transmission may be the answer but a visit to an occupational therapist should also be considered.

It may be difficult to have a conversation with your parents about their declining driving abilities, but it is essential for their safety and that of other road users as well as your own peace of mind.

Honda’s Trendy CV-R Gets Minor Updates

vuyi on January 18, 2022

By H&H Admin

The Honda CR-V has an impressive track record in South Africa, having pioneered the compact SUV sector of the local market when it was first introduced here more than 20 years ago.

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre and to enhance its already attractively rugged appeal, designers of Honda’s CV-R have endowed it with a subtly changed exterior and interior tweaks, aimed to ensure that the mid-size SUV continues to draw attention.

A realignment of the range sees changes to the drivetrain and specifications of the 1.5T Executive. Most notably, this model now offers front-wheel drive.

The range still consists of four models offering two different engine options and varying specification levels.

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre and to enhance its already attractively rugged appeal, creators of the CR-V have endowed it with subtle exterior enhancements.

EXTERIOR

The front-end of the CR-V is still dominated by a broad-barred grille which is framed by curved, slimline headlights with integrated daytime running lights. Dual air intakes with a dark meshed finish split the colour-coded bumper, while a metallic scuff plate underlines the CR-V’s undeniable SUV identity.

At the rear, the inverted LED taillight clusters are linked by a chromed garnish strip and positioned high up on a tail gate that extends all the way down to bumper level. Adding a sporty touch to the 1.5T models are twin exhaust tailpipes, housed within the rear scuff plate.

Contrasting protective cladding on the lower sections of the body panels, together with pronounced wheel arch extensions, enhance the CR-V’s rugged looks, as do new, larger 19-inch alloy wheels on the top-of-the-range 1.5T Exclusive model.

INTERIOR

On the inside, the Honda CR-V’s interior remains largely unchanged assuring families of continued premium finishes and unparalleled space, making the cabin an altogether pleasant place to be in.

As with the previous model, one of the key interior highlights is the full-colour TFT driver information interface, which is located in a dedicated binnacle directly ahead of the driver. The display is dominated by a graph-type rev counter, accompanied by a digital speedometer.

Depending on the model, a centrally located 5-inch or 7-inch display provides user-friendly access to the CR-V’s infotainment system. The centre stack also houses the controls for the dual-zone climate control system.

DRIVETRAIN

There are two drivetrain options for the upgraded CR-V.

The first is Honda’s familiar 2,0-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine. This normally aspirated unit features 113 kW of power and peak torque of 189 Nm.

The 1 997 cc engine is linked to Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with G-Shift control logic and provides all the convenience of an automatic gearbox. Drive is to the front wheels.

The second engine option is a 1 498 cc turbo powerplant which 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque. It too is mated to a CVT gearbox.

MODEL LINE-UP AND FEATURES

As was the case with the previous range, the upgraded Honda CR-V line-up consists of four models, with a choice of two engines and four specification levels. All derivatives feature Honda’s latest-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Honda CR-V 2.0 Comfort CVT

The 2.0 Comfort is the base model of the range and offers an extensive list of standard comfort, convenience and safety features. Powered by a proven 2,0-litre petrol engine with a CVT gearbox, the 2.0 Comfort has a top speed of 192 km/h, while fuel consumption is claimed to be 7,3 litres.100km on a combined cycle.

Distinguishing features include:

Aluminium-look front and rear scuff plates
Brushed aluminium roof rails
17-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/65 R17 tyres
Cloth upholstery and metallic accents
5-inch full-colour display
Four-speaker audio system, as well as Bluetooth connectivity
Dual-zone climate control
Rear park distance sensors
Electrically operated exterior mirrors
Dual front and side SRS airbags
Curtain airbags
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts all round
Isofix child seat anchor points
ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
Agile Handling Assist (AHA
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Hill Start Assist (HAS) systems

Honda CR-V 2.0 Elegance CVT

The CR-V 2.0 Elegance is technically identical to the more affordable Comfort model in terms of drivetrain and exterior execution. However, the Elegance offers an enhanced package of interior features.

Distinguishing features include:

Leather upholstery
Heated front seats
7-inch Display Audio interface
Eight-speaker audio system as well as Bluetooth connectivity
Eight-way electric adjustment (front seats)
Memory function for the driver’s seat
Front and read Park Distance Control
Downwards tilting left exterior mirror (for better visibility when reversing)
Leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel
Gear shift paddles for manual CVT operation
Auto-sensing windscreen wipers

Honda CR-V 1.5T Executive CVT

The 1.5T Executive is powered by Honda’s force-induced, 1,5-litre petrol engine, delivering 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque paired to a CVT gearbox as standard.

The exterior design of the 1.5T Executive shares all the key features of the 2,0-litre models, but gains 18-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/60 R18 tyres.

Distinguishing features include:

Auto-levelling full LED headlights
Inverted LED daytime running lights
Leather upholstery
Digital Driver Information Interface
7-inch Display Audio infotainment system as the 2.0 Elegance
Start/stop button
Remote central locking system
Keyless smart entry

Honda CR-V 1.5T Exclusive CVT

The flagship of the new Honda CR-V range is the 1.5T Exclusive. Mechanically, it is identical to the Executive model, combining the same 1,5-litre turbo engine with a CVT gearbox. However, setting it apart from its lesser siblings are new 19-inch alloy wheels and three-element LED front fog lamps.

Distinguishing features include:

Auto High Beam headlights
Leather upholstery
TFT-based Digital Driver Information Interface
Panoramic sunroof
Integrated satellite navigation system
Electrically operated tailgate with programmable opening height
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS)
LanewatchTM

Honda Sensing, which comprises of:

Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed following (LSF)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS)

COLOURS

The colour line-up for the upgraded CR-V includes Platinum White, Lunar Silver, Modern Steel, Crystal Black and Brilliant Sporty Blue. A new addition is Coffee Cherry Red.

PRICING, WARRANTY AND SERVICE PLAN

Recommended retail pricing is as follows:

2.0L FWD Comfort CVT R556 100

2.0L FWD Elegance CVT R617 900

1.5T FWD Executive CVT R699 900

2.0L FWD Exclusive CVT R796 300

The range is backed by a comprehensive five-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a five-year/90 000 km service plan. Also included is a three-year AA Road Assist package.

Service intervals are set at 15 000 km for the 2.0-litre models, and 10 000 km for the 1.5-litre turbo variants.