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15 June 2016
6 Items to keep in your car during winter
South Africans may not experience the harsh and extreme winter conditions of the northern hemisphere, but bad weather is unpredictable. Now that winter is upon us, if you travel long distances regularly, keep just a few extra items in the car for these few cold months. Jumper Cables Jumper cables should be a basic item to keep in your car all year round but becomes even more important in winter. If your battery is not in tip-top condition, cold temperatures will drastically reduce its performance. Warm clothes It sounds obvious but we rarely think about keeping an extra warm item in the car. If your car breaks down and the temperature is anything under 10 degrees Celsius you could be stuck waiting in the cold for a while until help comes along. Also, we know how quickly the temperatures can change from one hour to the next. Keep a set of warm clothing including a jacket, gloves, beanie, and a scarf. Pack them all away in one neat compact bag and store under the seat. Blanket If your car is stuck you may not be able to turn on the heater. And even if you could you don’t want to run down the battery. If the wait is long, then warm clothes may not be enough. A blanket kept in the car is generally handy anyway, but if you’re really short on space and prefer a less cluttered environment, then a space blanket takes up hardly any. These are light metal-coated sheets that help you retain body heat and fold up to the size of your hand. Water Water is essential for the development and the correct functioning of your body. In case you are stranded for a while, you won’t want to add to the stress of dehydration. Try to keep a glass bottle of water in the car rather than plastic. Plastic bottles are considered unsafe as they may leach harmful substances into the water. Food Dried fruit and nuts are a good healthy source of high-energy food to provide sustenance. They’re also one of the healthiest and most natural option. Packaged portable snacks such as energy bars and chocolate are a good alternative. Torch or Flashlight Darkness ascends earlier in winter. You don’t want to be stranded and struggle to see in the dark, but a torch also comes in useful if you need to catch attention or signal for help. Make sure the batteries are in good condition but remove them from the torch so that they don’t run down. And those are the winter-specific basics. You should keep your car serviced regularly so that you’ll never have to use them.But carrying them along with your car’s first aid kit, towrope, cell phone charger, and other essentials is the best you can do to safeguard yourself when stranded in the cold. Disclaimer: All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. Auto Pedigree and the authors makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.The owner ofthis blog will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.
05 June 2016
Top News Stories June 2016
How Robot Cars Could Save Us Money Driverless cars may not appear too near in the future for South Africans yet, but when they do, they'll not only change the way we work,play, and live, but may also make the cost of motoring cheaper.The fact that a robot takes over from a human being mean less cell phone usage while driving which immediately decreases the risk of accidents, fines, and a host of human errors that end up costing us extra expense.http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/will-robot-cars-make-motoring-cheaper-2028645 Solar Carport Charging Facility is in South Africa The solar revolution has begun with BMW launching its first solar charging facility in Johannesburg towards the end of May. This makes it possible for owners of electric and hybrid vehicles to charge up completely using green energy. Even the carport is constructed mainly of bamboo, which is a particularly sustainable raw material.Charging time is under two hours for a car, but the carport charging facility can also be used to charge electric home appliances as well.Four pilot solar ports would be strategically located and established in Johannesburg,Cape Town and Durban.https://www.enca.com/life/motoring/bmw-launches-first-solar-carport-charging-facility-in-south-africa BMW X5 Hybrid Launches in SA And while we're talking about electric charging carports, BMW's new X5 xDrive40e plug-inhybrid also arrived in the country at the end of May. This is the first of arange in South Africa from BMW (not counting the i8), which recently promised to launch rechargeable hybrid versions of every car in its range within the next few years. Under the hood of this SUV is a lithium-ionbattery pack feeding an electric motor inside its eight-speed gearbox. It's possible to drive this X5 on pure electric power for up to 31km at speeds up to120km/h.http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/an-x5-you-can-plug-in-and-take-far-2026577 Uber Switches on Cash Payment Option Since its launch in South Africa in 2013, an Uber ride meant you could only pay by credit card. Now, South Africa is the first country in the world where the cash payment option went live in five cities simultaneously. These were the main cities of Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth. This move comes after Uber fares were reduced by up to 20% in the country for the winter,causing controversy among Uber drivers, partners, and car owners, but the price-cut was designed to drive demand.http://mybroadband.co.za/news/motoring/165790-uber-to-launch-cash-payment-option-in-south-africa.html Top Gear is Back with a South African Spin The BBC show on DStv Channel 120 will feature two new presenters Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc. Also on offer are new locations, new ideas, and new challenges amongst outrageous track challenges and high-performance car reviews. An episode to watch out for features the team manoeuvreing their vehicle over the treacherous bends on Sani Pass, and racing to the highest pub in Africa. http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/new-top-gear-to-feature-sas-sani-pass-2024734
02 May 2016
Top News Stories May 2016
1. Stay Safe While Driving Personal safety while driving should not be neglected, regardless of whether you're nipping out to the shops or going on a long road journey. Unpleasant situations can occur anywhere, and being diligent and aware of your surroundings goes a long way to saving yourself and your family unnecessary ordeal. The AA released a list of tips to ensure motorists are well equipped to deal with unexpected situations they could encounter. http://mybroadband.co.za/news/motoring/166052-how-to-keep-safe-in-your-car-in-south-africa.html 2. Jozi Waste Pickers Initiative Waste pickers who collect plastic, glass, tins, and scrap metal are often seen pushing and pulling large trolleys laden with recyclable waste in order to earna few rands at the end of each day. This humble exercise leads into all sorts of problems because they have to manoeuvre their vehicles using the shoulder of the road and are often dangerously close to motorists. Now with the help of the Jozi My Beginning initiative pioneered by Soweto-born entrepreneur Sifiso Ngobese, safer and more visible trolleys are being built that also double up as mobile billboards. http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/soweto-entrepreneurs-fresh-take-on-trash-collection-20160419 3. Solar-powered Low-speed Electric Vehicles the Answer for Africa? Formal transportation and infrastructure in Africa is lacking partly due to the fact that conventional vehicles are not suitable for most of Africa's rudimentary conditions. A proposal has gone outfor a new model of mobility with a basic architecture that would be ideal for rural communities. More than a transportation vehicle, it would be a multi-functionalpiece of equipment , being used to power water pumps, grind grain, or charge cellphones. Ultimately, it could enable basic commercial growth as part of a micro-economy. http://cleantechnica.com/2016/04/13/best-idea-for-africa-transport-low-speed-lightweight-electric-cars/ 4. Tesla's Home-Power Batteries in SA (Podcast) ElonMusk's Tesla Home-Power kit became available in South Africa last month in April. The imported battery stores energy provided by the sun and is meant to supplement an existing photo voltaic system in times of load shedding and power outages. The entry level cost is aound R145 000 which includes a full installation, insurance and maintenance service solution. http://ewn.co.za/Media/2016/04/15/Tesla-home-power-kit-heads-to-SA
02 March 2016
A Hyundai i20 For Craighall Primary
Press Release: 2 March 2016 Coupled with the general laughter and joy of starting a new year back at school,excitement ran high at the beginning of the year at Craighall Primary School. Learners, staff, and parents alike all shared in the delight when the school management received a Hyundai i20 from Auto Pedigree. The school has been experiencing huge transportation challenges in their daily activities, and the school principal, Mrs. Parout-Jones stressed the importance of the initiative, adding:“It solves what would have been a particular logistical headache for our school and learners this year. Now we can focus on what we do best, educating the youth at Craighall Primary. A big ‘thank you’to Auto Pedigree from all at Craighall Primary.” Actual ownership of the vehicle will be passed over to the school once a specific sales target is achieved, and plans have already been laid out to assist the school in achieving this target. Auto Pedigree has a proud history of giving back to communities, particularly in the filed of education and are fully committed to the success of the initiative.
24 February 2016
Cars we love
Last week we wrote about what it is about cars that we humans love. Our first cars will always hold a special place in our hearts and there’ll always be a special relationship with our trusty, everyday runaround. While not everyone can or would want to spend their money for a privilege of having a glorious, premium vehicle parked in their garage, there’s always room to dream. These are the cars that most of us would probably never buy but can’t help but love. With an endless range of beautiful cars, we decided to pick just three. 3. Lamborghini Miura – The Fastest Sports Car in the World The Lamborghini Miura sports car was produced between 1966 and 1973. At launch, it had a top speed of 280 km/h and an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, making it the fastest production road car available in the world. The Miura’s central V12 engine, groundbreaking body shape and its incredible speed set new standards in the world of sports cars. Today, the new Lamborghini Aventador Miura Homage honours what is also one of the most beautiful cars ever made. 2. McClaren F1 - The Finest Sports Car The World Has Ever Seen Production of the McClaren F1 began in 1992. On 31 March 1998 (it’s last year of production) the British sports car set the record for the world’s fastest production car. Only 106 cars were manufactured. It’s projected value falls within $12 – 15 million. “Power, pace and peerless quality, the legendaryMcLaren F1is atechnological masterpiece. The fastest production car of its time. The finestsports car of its generation. For many, the greatest super car ever built.” 1. Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost – The Best Car in the World In its first few years of production, the Silver Ghost was the best touring car in the world. Rolls-Royce produced 7,874 Silver Ghosts between the years 1906 and 1926. The Silver Ghost was claimed to be the“Best Car in the World” by Auto car in 1907. In 2012, not only was it the best, but it became the most valuable car in the world when it fetched $7.1million at an auction. Every Rolls-Royce engine ever made is entirely hand built, and approximately 65% of all Rolls-Royce motor cars are still roadworthy and in use today. Looking for a reliable second hand car that won’t cost an arm and a leg?Visit any of our65 branchesnationwide,select from 3,000 quality used vehicles, and you could drive away with a car that suits your lifestyle the very same day. Disclaimer: Auto Pedigree and the authors make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or by following any link on this site. Auto Pedigree and the authors will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. Auto Pedigree and the authors will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.
19 January 2016
Who invented the car
Almost everyone knows that Henry Ford invented the Model T, the first commercially available automobile. But to the question of who invented the first car, it really depends whom you ask, and exactly what you mean by 'car'. Automobiles throughout history have been propelled by various means, such as gasoline, electric, and steam. They have also been invented and built for different purposes. For these reasons there is no straightforward answer. The World's First Self-Propelled Vehicle Design To find the first self-propelled vehicle design we have to go way back in time to the fifteenth century. This design was of a cart designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Powered by coiled springs, it had steering and braking capabilities. Although it wasn't built during Leonardo da Vinci's own time, a museum in Italy turned his design into a working model with the help of a U.S. robotics expert, Mark Rosheim. The model is on display atThe Institute and Meseum of the History of Sciencein Florence. A design way before its time, nevertheless, this vehicle cannot be seen as a car, strictly speaking. The World's First Fuel-Powered Car Though there have been numerous designs and inventions since Leonardo da Vinci's using different methods of propulsion and in varying degrees of successes and failures, the first true, modern, practical, petrol-driven automobile was the three-wheeled motor car invented by German engine designer Karl Benz in 1885. The vehicle featured wire wheels powered by a four-stroke engine that he designed. The engine sat mounted between the rear wheels and equipped with an advanced coil ignition. The engine was not radiator-cooled but made use of an evaporative system. Engine power was transmitted to the wheels by means of two roller chains to the rear axle. Its design was revolutionary and Karl Benz was granted a patent on January 29, 1886 as an "automobile fueled by gas". Karl Benz and his wife Bertha are honoured for their roles in the history of automobiles. Auto Pedigree has been trading in quality late-model vehicles for over 35 years, bringing a culture of service, a no-nonsense approach to dealing with customers, and a thorough understanding of motoring needs. To have all your questions answered about buying a second hand car from Autp Pedigree,Contact us. Disclaimer: Auto Pedigree and the authors make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or by following any link on this site. Auto Pedigree and the authors will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. Auto Pedigree and the authors will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.
30 November 2015
5 Habits to improve your driving habits
We all have a sense of love for our trusty vehicles, which is why doing all that we can to avoid a costly car accident should be a top priority. There are basically three ways in which to avoid a costly smash-up: Obey the rules of the road, Improve your driving skills, Improve your driving habits. These seem simple enough, yet strangely, improving one's driving habits seem to be the most difficult to achieve. In order to improve your driving skills, you can go on an advanced driveing school course which will fine-tune your abilities and reactions behind the wheel. However, to improve your driving habits, you almost need to draw on tremendous personal resolve and execute with determination. These are five habits that you can work on that may save you the trouble and trauma of being involved in a costly car accident: Courtesy In our everyday lives, we're generally well-mannered, even-tempered people. We open doors for others, greet politely, and say please and thank you. In the instance that we get behind the wheel of a car, we go through a metamorphosis. The road becomes a racing track, and we're out to win! If you're ever tempted to act this way, remember that courtesy begets courtesy. The more you treat other road users with respect, the more you'll find that respect will be forthcoming from others - it's human nature. Furthermore, courtesy feels better than anger or impatience does. Patience With the increasing congestion on our roads, patience is probably one of the most difficult habits to cultivate. When time is tight and life is busy, we tend to start feeling the stress of waiting for the traffic lights to change or for the car in front to move on faster. Remind yourself that holding onto this tension will not make the lights change or the car in front go faster. Turn up the music and drum to the beat, or put your frustration into a balloon and let it float away. Always remember to breathe deeply. Focus As it is, driving a car is a multi-tasking activity in its own right. Then, with it, we add more activities that belong in the home or the office instead of the car. It's okay, perhaps, to have a sip of coffee or check your hair quickly whilst stopped at a traffic light, but to apply a full face of makeup, read the newspaper, or text while actually driving is definitely not a good idea. It diverts attention away from the road and, worse, away from other drivers who are driving in a similar, unfocused manner.Did you know that if just ten percent of drivers on the road are not focused on the task at hand, there is a ten percent chance of an accident occurring? Rather alarming, isn't it? It is, therefore, extremely important to always be on the defence and foresee hidden dangers. This is where focus comes in. Defensiveness Safe travelling distances and speeds are the two most important tactics in defensive driving. For instance, a dog runs in front of a driver travelling in front of you, causing him to brake suddenly. If there's not enough following distance between the two of you, you will not stop in time and you will become the cause of the accident. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to anticipate what other drivers are going to do, because, often, they may not know themselves. Tolerance You know those times when you're driving along merrily in a 70 km zone, headlights on, keeping to your lane, keeping a safe following distance, indicating when necessary (i.e. obeying the rules of the road), when another vehicle zips past, just manages to squeeze in front of you without indicating, causing you to come to a grinding halt because the traffic light just turned red? Our advice: Don't turn red too. Just think blue and keep your cool.Remaining tolerant to other drivers' bad behaviour is likely to help you to avoid nasty road rage incidents that could result in damage to your car - or worse. Practice all five habits and be pleasant to others whenever you're behind the wheel of a car. You'll most likely find that the other part of your day will likely turn out to be much more pleasant too.
30 November 2015
Buying With Auto Pedigree
Most of us would like to own an out-of-the-box car that comes with that unmistakable new car smell and an odometer that reads below two digits. But new cars are costly. And you know the old adage that a new car's value depreciates exponentially the moment that you drive it out the car dealership's doors? It's true. So buying a quality used car makes a lot of sense. But just because the same pre-owned model will cost a lot less than its newer counterpart, it doesn't necessarily mean that it will also perform less. In fact, buying from a reputable car dealer such as Auto Pedigree, means that although you're paying used car prices, you're getting a near new car experience. Quality As Good As New Within the pre-owned car market, Auto Pedigree is a cut above the rest. The cars they source are late model with low mileage. This means that they are usually no more than two or three years old. These affordable cars for sale go through a fine tooth comb, from roof to underside, inside and out. The Auto Pedigree team puts every car through a stringent 116 point check. They pump, grease, repair, and replace everything required to get the car up into peak condition. Largest Stock Pool in the Country Second hand car dealers come and go. Auto Pedigree has been going since 1981 - that's 34 years in the business - and is now the largest second hand independent car dealer network in South Africa with over 60 branches countrywide. Convenience Your finance application is processed while you wait. Auto Pedigree has a relationship with most of the major banks. If you want to trade-in your old car, Auto Pedigree will tailor your package to include a good price for your trade-in. When buying used cars, consider who you're buying them from. Investigate the seller and don't make hasty decisions.
15 October 2015
The top 5 hatch vehicles in SA
We take a quick glance at the hatchbacks that made the popularity stakes at the beginning of 2015, and investigate their latest cosmetic upgrades. Volkswagen Polo Vivo Models: Conceptline / Blueline / Trendline / Comfortline / GT / Maxx Manufactured locally, and with 70% of parts sourced from local suppliers, this hatchback sits at the top of the charts for being one of South Africa's favourite passenger vehicles. With a range of no less than six models, and a good sprucing up, makes the Vivo is no ordinary hatchback. It comes standard with ABS, as well as alarm and remote central locking. Trendline/Comfortline/GT/Maxx features: CD / radio reads MP3s and USBs and connects via Bluetooth; Height adjustable driver seats. Toyota Etios Models: Xi and Xs The success of the Etios has compelled the manufacturers to give this popular model a facelift, with a focus on quality and good looks. The range now comes standard with aesthetically-pleasing colour coded door handles and mirrors, and a sporty new grille design. Rubber engine mounts have been replaced with hydraulic mounts, and modified silencer and finely tuned damper settings all aid in a smoother, quieter ride. Interior-wise, both models come with instrument blue backlighting. Toyota Etios Xs features: On the audio front, the Xs comes standard with 2-DIN Toyota audio system. The Sport model includes Bluetooth for essential hand-free driving; Height adjustment capability in the driver's seat; Better cushioning and adjustable headrests. Even the back seats have been redesigned to offer more comfort. Ford Figo Models: Ambiente/Trend Although seen as a revised version of the previous generation Ford Fiesta, the Figo's grille, seats, fenders, and entertainment system are all its own. Both models come standard with dual airbags, MP3, Bluetooth, power steering, and ABS, while the Trend has the added extra of front electric windows and electric adjustable mirrors. (At time of writing) a brand new, updated Figo is set to launch in 2015, with the aim of setting new standards for quality and craftsmanship. Chevrolet Spark Models: Campus/1.2/LS/LT Manufactured at General Motors' plant in Port Elizabeth, on the exterior, the Spark's redesigns are the front grille, headlights, and taillights. Upper models see changes on the mirrors and alloy wheels, with the sporty LT model giving you a further option -smoky-black alloys on its standard 15-inch wheels. From the basic Campus model, features include air conditioning, remote central locking, audio setup, ABS, and dual airbags, Chevy Spark LS features: CD, MP3, USB and auxiliary support audio system; Roof rails; Rear windscreen wiper; Alarm and immobiliser system; Electric windows; Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; Electric mirrors; Height-adjustable steering wheel; Roof spoiler; 14-inch alloys. Chevy Spark LT features: 15-inch alloy wheels; Body colour-coding; Electric front and rear windows; Six-speaker sound system; Side airbags; Parking sensors; Optional decal package. Renault Sandero Models: Expression/Dynamique The Expression doesn't come standard with aircon, but does include a host of technological features such as MP3 / CD / USB audio system with steering wheel controls, Bluetooth, remote central locking, dual airbags,ABS, EBD, EBAsafety kit, and ESP and hill start assist. Renault Sandero Dynamique features: Front-side airbags; Cruise control and speed control; Leather-covered steering wheel; Front and rear electric windows; Fog lights; 15-inch alloy wheels. Disclaimer: The information contained on this site are simple guides to help you make a decision and should not be seen as 100 per cent exact. We encourage buyers to contact theirAuto Pedigree branchfor a comprehensive description of the vehicle/s that interest them.
30 September 2015
Buy a used car with a peace of mind
Looking to buy a used car but worried about getting burnt? Whether buying from car dealerships or through a private seller, the number one principle is: Don't buy on impulse. In short, you should always dedicate your time and effort in exchange for many happy driving years to come. Let's face it; a car is not the same toy we played with in pre-school. If it broke, a bit of glue, a screw, or duct tape was the entire repair it needed to get going again. Since it's a large investment, extra patience and thought goes a long way before committing to the exchange of a good portion of your monthly salary. Before you look for any car, it is important to: Know your needs "Of course I know what I need", I hear you say. However, if you don't think about this carefully now, you'll discover all about it after you've driven that new car for a week, a month, or even a year. That: "I wish I had..." feeling will haunt you for as long as you have the car that you signed up for. Aside from your need for speed and: "It must be red", if you're a "what-if" type of person, you'll need to consider practicalities over looks. Think about storage space, both boot and interior. Is the cubby big enough for all of your bits and pieces? Does the boot accommodate your shop-a-holism? Are you using it for short distances or long? Do you intend keeping it for a long time or are you the type to change vehicles on a whim? Know your budget Obviously you aren't going to look at an Infiniti Q60 if your bank statement clearly says Toyota Tazz. But remember that there are the other expenses that tag themselves onto the purchase of a pre-owned car. Factor in insurance premiums, transfer fees, vehicle registration, licence fees, theft protection, roadworthy certificates etc. Do Your Homework Once you know what model you want according to your needs and budget, research, research, research! Understand the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses, what will it cost to repair, as well as how easily spare parts are obtained. Compare specs, read reviews, research to the death until you can't anymore. If it doesn't tick all of the boxes, but it's still the model that you really, really want, fine. Just as long as you go into it with your eyes wide open. Must Haves Before buying a pre-owned car, it is important to ensure that you have the following (in order of priority): a service history, roadworthy certificate, and, especially when buying from a private seller and no documentation is available, a police clearance certificate. Checking Before buying any vehicle you've set your heart on, take some time to check it thoroughly, inside and out. The Body Check for signs of rust in less visible areas of the body; check that body panels are flush and that there are no mismatched panels; check for over spraying which could indicate accident damage; and check for uneven tyre wear which could indicate something more serious than improper inflation. The Interior Check the odometer for signs of tampering; underneath seat covers for hidden damage; the condition of the seat belts; windscreen wipers; window operations; audio components; air conditioner; and signs of flood damage. Lastly, an often overlooked section under the boot: check that the spare wheel, jack and wrench are in its place. Test Driving Comfort in the driving position means that the car itself should fit you like a tailor-made suit. Some cars give the option for those short of stature to pump up the height of the seat. Many don't. The point is, when going for a test drive, any idiosyncrasies should be planned and prepared for.Bring your cushion, your favourite water bottle, your tin of mints - whatever you can't do without whilst driving and make sure that there is a place for it. Once buckled in, check for smooth gear changing, engine power in relation to the size of the vehicle, that no vibrations are coming off of the brake pedal, and be sure to test the braking ability under pressure,in a safe zone. It's no secret that buying a used car from a reputable dealership is the best way in which to ensure long term satisfaction. A good dealership will check, double check and triple check all of the crucial points to ensure that you're getting a trouble-free vehicle that looks and feels almost new. For peace of mind and minimum hassle, your heart (and head) will thank you for it.
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