Where in the vehicle will my child be safest?

Question:

Good afternoon. My son is 11weeks and i need to know what i should do if i have to drive a long distance. I cant put the child in the back of the car cause it is only us 2. can i put the child in the front facing the back?

Answer:

You can have your child on the front seat as long as his baby seat is rear facing and you have de-activated the airbag. Drive at a lower speed and take a break every 2 hours. It will be good for him too to get out and stretch a bit. Soothing music also helps to keep him calm. If you do need to attend to him, pull over where it is safe first. Children, especially new babies, can be a huge distraction when driving.

Keep well my friend

Much love

Peggie Mars

Founder – Wheel Well

For Children in Road Safety

072 385 7121

www.wheelwell.co.za

Also view:

Child restraints and Road Safety

Car Seats for Children and Legislation in South Africa

Where in the vehicle will my child be safest?

Is it time to ditch your vehicle?

Taking into consideration ditching your automobile because you are fed up with Britain’s gridlocked roads?

And that doesn’t just imply leaving it at residence in favour of commuting on public transport – we’re talking about in fact obtaining rid of your car for great.

If you’re in this category, you are not alone. According to a new report from analysis charity, the Independent Transport Commission, the quantity of people who own their personal cars is likely to fall steeply over the subsequent 50 years.

This is primarily due to the cost of operating them, and due to the fact we’re sick of sitting in visitors jams.

Peak season

So are we quickly approaching the scenario identified as “peak car”, when the road ne2rk simply can’t accommodate any more cars, and the number of motives not to personal a automobile begins to outweigh the positive aspects of getting a single?

Not absolutely everyone thinks so. Forecasts from the Department for Transport recommend that traffic on all UK roads will enhance by 41% amongst 2010 and 2040 – so they clearly do not acquire into the argument that car usage is going to decline any time quickly.

Indeed, may possibly driverless vehicle technology not increase the number of vehicles on the road, given that it will take a lot of the anxiety and strife out of acquiring behind the wheel?

The Commission, however, is sticking to its guns, saying growing numbers of us will be put off driving by worsening targeted traffic conditions.

Price issues

It is not just targeted traffic that is placing us off auto ownership.

The fees of learning to drive and of operating and insuring a auto are amongst the principal reasons a lot of of us could consider dumping our motors.

There are a lot of other costs linked with owning a auto, such as fuel fees and parking charges, which offer excellent purpose to think about hanging up the car keys.

Take my case. It would be really valuable for my personal family to have a second vehicle, offered we have 2 young kids and live in the sticks. But my husband has rather gone for a moped to save cash.

This has the benefit of quite cheap operating charges and means he does not have to spend the £4 station auto park charges each and every day – a saving of about £80 a month.

Club class

So how will we get about if we no longer use our own vehicles?

The report says escalating numbers of us will turn to automobile clubs, where you rent a auto anytime you require one, auto-sharing and taxis.

It’s not tough to see the appeal of any of these choices.

Automobile clubs normally charge an annual fee, generally amongst £60 and £100, and then an hourly rate, generally starting from about £5.

According to the Income Guidance Service, if you drive significantly less than 6,000 miles a year, joining a auto club could save you more than £3,000 compared to operating your own automobile, and you don’t have to worry about servicing or repairs, or arranging toad tax and insurance coverage.

Problem shared…

Automobile-sharing is also properly worth thinking about – particularly if you’re a commuter and have a fellow workplace worker you can share fees with. If you do not, then there are a lot of lift share sites available, such as nationalcarshare.co.uk and blablacar.com exactly where you can sign up to be a passenger.

Most websites let you to join for totally free, and then look for people going in the very same path you want to. The only cost to you is a share of the petrol expenses.

If you are worried about obtaining into a vehicle with a stranger, most sites have a ratings system so you can verify out what other passengers say about them very first.

Country living

While all this makes good sense in theory, it surely feels as even though it is going to be a long time just before any person who doesn’t reside in an urban area will be in a position to get by effortlessly with no their personal car, specially if they have youngsters to ferry around.

In most rural locations, you’d be really tough pushed to find a vehicle club vehicle within walking distance, and fortunate to find a person prepared to routinely drop you at your door with a lift-share arrangement.

Probably this will all alter, but I for a single can’t see myself providing up my vehicle keys anytime quickly.

Is it time to ditch your vehicle?

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

In amplification of the new vehicle sales statistics for the month of April, 2015 – released today for public consumption on the website of the Department of Trade & Industry – the Association commented that domestic new vehicle sales, particularly all categories of commercial vehicle sales, had been affected by the multiplicity and configuration of public holidays during the month. Supported by incentive packages, new car sales had held up relatively well. Continued strong growth in new vehicle exports had continued during the month.

In the event, April 2015 aggregate new vehicle sales at 44 503 units were slightly down from the 46 016 vehicles sold in April last year. Overall, out of the total reported Industry sales of 44 503 vehicles, an estimated 38 780 units or 87.2% represented dealer sales, 6.3% constituted sales to government, 4.2% to industry corporate fleets and 2.3% represented sales to the vehicle rental industry.

The April, 2015 new car market at 30 184 units reflected a decline of 594 units or a fall of 1.9% compared to the 30 778 new cars sold in April last year. Intense competition in a challenging, difficult tradingenvironment had resulted in incentive packages to promote new vehicle sales. Furthermore, a modestrecovery in the used vehicle market had also been noticed.

Domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and mini buses during April, 2015 at 12 077 units reflected a decline of 774 units or a fall of 6.0% compared to the 12 851 light commercial vehiclessold during the corresponding month last year.

Sales of vehicles in the investment-driven medium and heavy truck segments of the Industry had registered declines. Medium commercial vehicle sales at 777 units and heavy commercial vehicle sales at1 465 units, reflected a fall of 38 units or 4.7% in the case of medium commercials, and a decline of 107 vehicles or a fall of 6.8% in the case of heavy trucks and buses – compared to the corresponding month last year.

Vehicle exports had continued to contribute positively to South Africa’s current account of the balance of payments. Industry new vehicle exports at 23 615 units during April, 2015 had again registered exceptionally strong growth compared to the corresponding month last year rising by 6 813 vehicles or 40.5% relative to the 16 802 export sales in April, 2014.

Vehicle exports for 2015 were on target to improve by around 25% in volume terms to a record export number of about 325 000 for the year.

At this stage, NAAMSA continued to project marginal volume growth in domestic sales based on an assumption of a slight improvement in South Africa’s economic growth rate, relative stability in automotive industry industrial relations, stable interest rates and unchanged credit ratings.

New vehicle industry production would continue to benefit from projected higher export numbers.

[Media from NAAMSA]

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

In amplification of the new vehicle sales statistics for the month of April, 2015 – released today for public consumption on the website of the Department of Trade & Industry – the Association commented that domestic new vehicle sales, particularly all categories of commercial vehicle sales, had been affected by the multiplicity and configuration of public holidays during the month. Supported by incentive packages, new car sales had held up relatively well. Continued strong growth in new vehicle exports had continued during the month.

In the event, April 2015 aggregate new vehicle sales at 44 503 units were slightly down from the 46 016 vehicles sold in April last year. Overall, out of the total reported Industry sales of 44 503 vehicles, an estimated 38 780 units or 87.2% represented dealer sales, 6.3% constituted sales to government, 4.2% to industry corporate fleets and 2.3% represented sales to the vehicle rental industry.

The April, 2015 new car market at 30 184 units reflected a decline of 594 units or a fall of 1.9% compared to the 30 778 new cars sold in April last year. Intense competition in a challenging, difficult tradingenvironment had resulted in incentive packages to promote new vehicle sales. Furthermore, a modestrecovery in the used vehicle market had also been noticed.

Domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and mini buses during April, 2015 at 12 077 units reflected a decline of 774 units or a fall of 6.0% compared to the 12 851 light commercial vehiclessold during the corresponding month last year.

Sales of vehicles in the investment-driven medium and heavy truck segments of the Industry had registered declines. Medium commercial vehicle sales at 777 units and heavy commercial vehicle sales at1 465 units, reflected a fall of 38 units or 4.7% in the case of medium commercials, and a decline of 107 vehicles or a fall of 6.8% in the case of heavy trucks and buses – compared to the corresponding month last year.

Vehicle exports had continued to contribute positively to South Africa’s current account of the balance of payments. Industry new vehicle exports at 23 615 units during April, 2015 had again registered exceptionally strong growth compared to the corresponding month last year rising by 6 813 vehicles or 40.5% relative to the 16 802 export sales in April, 2014.

Vehicle exports for 2015 were on target to improve by around 25% in volume terms to a record export number of about 325 000 for the year.

At this stage, NAAMSA continued to project marginal volume growth in domestic sales based on an assumption of a slight improvement in South Africa’s economic growth rate, relative stability in automotive industry industrial relations, stable interest rates and unchanged credit ratings.

New vehicle industry production would continue to benefit from projected higher export numbers.

[Media from NAAMSA]

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

In amplification of the new vehicle sales statistics for the month of April, 2015 – released today for public consumption on the website of the Department of Trade & Industry – the Association commented that domestic new vehicle sales, particularly all categories of commercial vehicle sales, had been affected by the multiplicity and configuration of public holidays during the month. Supported by incentive packages, new car sales had held up relatively well. Continued strong growth in new vehicle exports had continued during the month.

In the event, April 2015 aggregate new vehicle sales at 44 503 units were slightly down from the 46 016 vehicles sold in April last year. Overall, out of the total reported Industry sales of 44 503 vehicles, an estimated 38 780 units or 87.2% represented dealer sales, 6.3% constituted sales to government, 4.2% to industry corporate fleets and 2.3% represented sales to the vehicle rental industry.

The April, 2015 new car market at 30 184 units reflected a decline of 594 units or a fall of 1.9% compared to the 30 778 new cars sold in April last year. Intense competition in a challenging, difficult tradingenvironment had resulted in incentive packages to promote new vehicle sales. Furthermore, a modestrecovery in the used vehicle market had also been noticed.

Domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and mini buses during April, 2015 at 12 077 units reflected a decline of 774 units or a fall of 6.0% compared to the 12 851 light commercial vehiclessold during the corresponding month last year.

Sales of vehicles in the investment-driven medium and heavy truck segments of the Industry had registered declines. Medium commercial vehicle sales at 777 units and heavy commercial vehicle sales at1 465 units, reflected a fall of 38 units or 4.7% in the case of medium commercials, and a decline of 107 vehicles or a fall of 6.8% in the case of heavy trucks and buses – compared to the corresponding month last year.

Vehicle exports had continued to contribute positively to South Africa’s current account of the balance of payments. Industry new vehicle exports at 23 615 units during April, 2015 had again registered exceptionally strong growth compared to the corresponding month last year rising by 6 813 vehicles or 40.5% relative to the 16 802 export sales in April, 2014.

Vehicle exports for 2015 were on target to improve by around 25% in volume terms to a record export number of about 325 000 for the year.

At this stage, NAAMSA continued to project marginal volume growth in domestic sales based on an assumption of a slight improvement in South Africa’s economic growth rate, relative stability in automotive industry industrial relations, stable interest rates and unchanged credit ratings.

New vehicle industry production would continue to benefit from projected higher export numbers.

[Media from NAAMSA]

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

In amplification of the new vehicle sales statistics for the month of April, 2015 – released today for public consumption on the website of the Department of Trade & Industry – the Association commented that domestic new vehicle sales, particularly all categories of commercial vehicle sales, had been affected by the multiplicity and configuration of public holidays during the month. Supported by incentive packages, new car sales had held up relatively well. Continued strong growth in new vehicle exports had continued during the month.

In the event, April 2015 aggregate new vehicle sales at 44 503 units were slightly down from the 46 016 vehicles sold in April last year. Overall, out of the total reported Industry sales of 44 503 vehicles, an estimated 38 780 units or 87.2% represented dealer sales, 6.3% constituted sales to government, 4.2% to industry corporate fleets and 2.3% represented sales to the vehicle rental industry.

The April, 2015 new car market at 30 184 units reflected a decline of 594 units or a fall of 1.9% compared to the 30 778 new cars sold in April last year. Intense competition in a challenging, difficult tradingenvironment had resulted in incentive packages to promote new vehicle sales. Furthermore, a modestrecovery in the used vehicle market had also been noticed.

Domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and mini buses during April, 2015 at 12 077 units reflected a decline of 774 units or a fall of 6.0% compared to the 12 851 light commercial vehiclessold during the corresponding month last year.

Sales of vehicles in the investment-driven medium and heavy truck segments of the Industry had registered declines. Medium commercial vehicle sales at 777 units and heavy commercial vehicle sales at1 465 units, reflected a fall of 38 units or 4.7% in the case of medium commercials, and a decline of 107 vehicles or a fall of 6.8% in the case of heavy trucks and buses – compared to the corresponding month last year.

Vehicle exports had continued to contribute positively to South Africa’s current account of the balance of payments. Industry new vehicle exports at 23 615 units during April, 2015 had again registered exceptionally strong growth compared to the corresponding month last year rising by 6 813 vehicles or 40.5% relative to the 16 802 export sales in April, 2014.

Vehicle exports for 2015 were on target to improve by around 25% in volume terms to a record export number of about 325 000 for the year.

At this stage, NAAMSA continued to project marginal volume growth in domestic sales based on an assumption of a slight improvement in South Africa’s economic growth rate, relative stability in automotive industry industrial relations, stable interest rates and unchanged credit ratings.

New vehicle industry production would continue to benefit from projected higher export numbers.

[Media from NAAMSA]

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

April vehicle sales affected by public holidays

Your subsequent new vehicle could auto-dial 999 soon after a crash

The European Parliament this week voted in favour of installing devices which will automatically contact for assist from the emergency services in the occasion of a crash.

The intention is to have them fitted as standard in new vehicles and vans by March 2018.

The initiative, eCall, will alert the emergency services with details of your precise location, the time of incident and the direction of travel.

So even if a driver is knocked unconscious in a a single-vehicle incident (say they run off a quiet road when no other drivers are about), then an emergency response unit will be dispatched to the scene of the accident right after getting information from the in-vehicle devices.

Even if no-one particular in the vehicle is capable to speak, a minimum data set is sent.

Some vehicles, such as the Citroen C1 Connexion, now come fitted with telematics technologies as component of the package. Check out the video beneath to see how the technologies functions.

[embedded content material]

It’s estimated that eCall cuts emergency response time by up to 50% in the countryside and by as much as 60% in built-up areas.

Moreover, if a driver sees an accident, they can report it immediately by pushing a button on the dash that will place them via to an emergency response manage area.

And ahead of any of the tin-foil hat brigade get worried about their whereabouts getting tracked, ‘sleep mode’ is the default function of eCall, so it does not let for vehicle tracking outdoors of emergencies.

Roll-out of the initiative was scheduled for this year, but opposition regarding information protection has led to delays.

Security initial

Would you be far more ready to install a telematics device in your car if it wasn’t employed to monitor your driving (such as eCall, for instance)?

Let us know below…

Your subsequent new vehicle could auto-dial 999 soon after a crash

Evaluate Vehicle Insurance – Star Ratings

We obtained more than 28,800 person quotes across 6 states and several postcodes in capital cities, as well as regional nation centres.

Exactly where do you reside?

Are gender?

Your Age:

Added Driver Beneath 25:

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Attempt our Interest Prices Comparison web page

Australia is a nation of auto drivers. Our country’s geographical spread mingled with our desire to go about our daily lives in an active style generally indicates a automobile is involved somewhere along the line. Whether or not that car is the machine of your dreams or merely a signifies of traversing distance, extensive vehicle insurance coverage is becoming a necessity rather than just a grudge buy. Fortunately, there are many insurers vying for car insurance coverage custom and this is a great thing simply because it keeps premium costs down and the claims service competitive – resulting in an overall greater deal for motorists. Nonetheless, you nonetheless want to hold on leading of developments in the auto insurance coverage planet, specifically these days when acquiring on-line is so well-known.

Affordability is critical, but the cheapest premium is not the sole indicator of how excellent the policy is. If it does not cover you where it counts, it is largely a donation by you to the insurer. Admittedly, they all sound good on the internet, so how do you compare? We do the mileage for you. CANSTAR’s Car Insurance coverage Awards and Star Ratings pulls collectively 22,342 shadow-shopped quotes in order to analysis and rate 61 car insurance policies from 53 providers.

Our final results show you what you can expect from the moment you sign up to the moment you claim. And there are lots of other suggestions and traps to study about in this Report. Sit back and enjoy the full car insurance coverage ride.

Back to Auto Insurance…

Evaluate Vehicle Insurance – Star Ratings

Examine Vehicle Insurance coverage – Star Ratings

We obtained more than 28,800 person quotes across 6 states and several postcodes in capital cities, as nicely as regional country centres.

Exactly where do you live?

Are gender?

Your Age:

Extra Driver Under 25:

Not what you were hunting for?
Try our Interest Prices Comparison web page

Australia is a nation of automobile drivers. Our country’s geographical spread mingled with our wish to go about our every day lives in an active style typically signifies a car is involved someplace along the line. Whether or not that auto is the machine of your dreams or just a means of traversing distance, comprehensive automobile insurance is becoming a necessity rather than just a grudge acquire. Fortunately, there are many insurers vying for automobile insurance coverage custom and this is a very good factor simply because it keeps premium rates down and the claims service competitive – resulting in an all round better deal for motorists. Even so, you nonetheless require to hold on leading of developments in the vehicle insurance globe, specifically these days when getting on the web is so common.

Affordability is crucial, but the least expensive premium is not the sole indicator of how great the policy is. If it doesn’t cover you where it counts, it is largely a donation by you to the insurer. Admittedly, they all sound great on the web, so how do you compare? We do the mileage for you. CANSTAR’s Automobile Insurance coverage Awards and Star Ratings pulls collectively 22,342 shadow-shopped quotes in order to study and rate 61 vehicle insurance policies from 53 providers.

Our results show you what you can anticipate from the moment you sign up to the moment you claim. And there are lots of other guidelines and traps to study about in this Report. Sit back and get pleasure from the complete vehicle insurance coverage ride.

Back to Auto Insurance…

Examine Vehicle Insurance coverage – Star Ratings

Eye spy – CCTV spy vehicle requires to the streets

Spy vehicles just are not what they employed to be.

When we had James Bond’s amphibious Lotus or completely-loaded Aston Martin. Now we’ve got runabouts with huge CCTV cameras sitting on prime.

[embedded content material]

The spy auto has gone from becoming an object of wish to a supply of ire. And the undesirable news is a new “super” spy car is about to hit the streets and bring errant motorists to book from hundreds of feet away.

Study this: 10 charts only a driver will understand

Eyes on the road

The latest addition to the spy automobiles fleet will be Peugeot 108s fitted with a ‘military grade’ camera systems that go by the slightly terrifying name of the Predator PTZ – although the name loses some of its impact when you discover PTZ stands for pan/tilt/zoom.

The principal camera can spot visitors transgressions taking location hundreds of yards away, and a secondary system has a 360-degree field of vision.

All very hi-tech, and all certain to grind the gears of motorists up and down the country.

The camera-fitted car will price around £40,000 and will no doubt appeal to councils across Britain, although they won’t be capable to use it to swell their coffers with further parking fines.

How CCTV evidence can nonetheless be utilized

The lately-enacted Deregulation Act imposes a ban on enforcing on-street parking offences by way of CCTV evidence, but the car’s makers, Videalert, appear confident it’ll nonetheless be of use to neighborhood authorities.

Had a parking fine? Read this!

CCTV evidence can nonetheless be employed to prosecute motorist who park outside schools and those use bus lanes illegally, as well as a number of moving visitors offences such as entering a box junction, driving the wrong way down a 1-way street and creating an illegal u-turn.

David Richmond, chief executive of Videalert, mentioned: “This is a true multipurpose CCTV automobile. It is adaptable and we can expect to see it replacing the existing CCTV cars, as councils need to justify their costs. Other cars are a single-trick ponies this one can be employed for a assortment of enforcement purposes.”

It’s all a far cry from the days when spy automobiles had been utilized to help depose villainous despots.

t&gt

Eye spy – CCTV spy vehicle requires to the streets

Vehicle assessment: Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

This impressive new Mercedes is an energetic, sporty drive – but it does take a bit of obtaining employed to, writes motor reviewer Tim Barnes-Clay.

Sometimes a pair of new shoes feels just correct.

No blisters ever seem and they quickly turn into your go-to selection of footwear.

Initial discomfort

Other individuals cause you a small discomfort at very first – but, once worn in, you really feel as even though you’d never ever sauntered in something else.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 AMG Sport I drove was really a lot in the latter category.

It took me a while fine-tuning the seat to give me the very best driving position. I then had to adjust the steering wheel numerous times – and then get the lumbar assistance appropriate.

For the first day I just couldn’t nail it and, squirming uncomfortably, I was convinced this vehicle wasn’t for me.

Adjustments required

But, by the second day of my week with the Merc, I felt it was made with my name on it.

Some auto seats just need a quick twiddle here and there and you’re all set up. 

I believe the CLA’s sports seats with integral headrests just take some acquiring used to.

They’re sculpted in a curve-forward position, and make you feel like your head requirements to go back more – although that could have been me being fussy on the day the automobile was delivered.

An excellent machine

Anyway, sufficient of the seats and my hair-splitting: let me explain why, on the complete, the CLA is an superb piece of German machinery.

Aesthetically, its proportions and dynamic style give the compact 4-door saloon-cum-coupé an unmistakable look.

The vehicle’;s striking features consist of the bonnet embedded in the front end with power-domes and a diamond-look grille.

The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to develop a characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime driving lights and indicators.

‘Energetic and youthful’;

This light signet defines the car’;s energetic form and shapes a new, youthful Mercedes face.

The width-emphasising rear finish exudes muscle and athleticism, featuring an interplay between convex and concave surfaces.

The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window, supply the CLA 250 AMG Sport with a coupé-style character from the rear, as well.

The exterior’;s progressive, sporty look is continued inside the Benz.

Far more seating problems

All trim surfaces are galvanised in silver shadow, resulting in a cool-to-the-touch metallic finish.

The instrument panel incorporates 5 massive round vents and there’s a prominent cost-free-standing display screen that attributes a black piano-lacquer-look front panel with a flush-fitting silver frame.

In the back, the seats, as soon as again, turn into a sticking point.

They are cramped for adults and not even the greatest match for 2 youngster seats, but my 8- and 5-year-old coped without too significantly squabbling.

Spacious and precise

On the plus side, boot space is excellent for this type of vehicle.

On the road, the CLA 250’s turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rocks for most scenarios.

The automobile has outstanding grip when pushed by means of corners and its 6-speed automatic transmission climbs and descends excellently below pressure.

Specially noteworthy is the Mercedes’ direct steer method, which provides precise feedback in comparison with traditional energy steering.

Safety hasn’t been overlooked either, with numerous driving assistance systems supplying support and lowering your workload behind the wheel.

Normal-match characteristics include drowsiness detection and radar-based collision prevention assist with adaptive brake help, which helps to safeguard you from collisions from a speed of only 4mph.

Pros & cons

• Style √


• Steering √


• Grip √


• Safety kit √


• Rear seats X

Fast details

• Max speed: 149mph


• -62 mph: 6.6 secs


• Combined mpg: 42.8


• Engine: 1991cc 4 cylinders 16 valve turbo petrol


• Max. power (bhp): 208


• Max. torque (lb.ft): 258


• CO2: 154g/km


• Price tag: £33,440

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Vehicle assessment: Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

10 Stolen vehicles recovered at vehicle checkpoints by Police in Cape Town

Nyanga Cluster Police under the command of Major General Robbie Robberts apprehended 335 suspects during the week as from 2015-03-23 until 2015-03-30.

From Friday evening until Sunday morning there were operations at all 6 stations. Vehicle control points were done to search vehicles for dangerous weapons, firearms and unlicensed vehicles. Continuous stop and search, wanted suspects, and shebeen operations were also done.

5 firearms were recovered in Nyanga, Manenberg Lansdowne, Athlone and 6 suspects were apprehended. Suspects were arrested for various crimes such as murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, business robbery, house robbery, hijacking, sexual offences, crime against woman and children, stolen properties, possession of dagga, dealing in liquor, possession of suspected stolen property, dangerous weapons and possession of unlicensed fire-arm and ammunition.

Ten stolen vehicles were recovered in Phillipi-East, Manenberg, Nyanga, Guguletu and Athlone, 26 wanted suspects were apprehended during 6 tracing operations. 6ty 6 houses were searched for drugs and 248 8 suspects were apprehended. 25 and forty vehicle control points was conducted, 55 traffic fines were issued to the total value of R37 600 and 5 suspects were apprehended. Fifty 6 shebeen operations were conducted and 12 suspects were apprehended. Nine hundred and ninety one spaza shops were visited and 5 suspects were apprehended.

All suspects will appear in different Magistrate Courts for various crimes committed

10 Stolen vehicles recovered at vehicle checkpoints by Police in Cape Town

Hijacked vehicle recovered and suspect arrested in Newton Park

A collaborative effort between Mount Road Flying Squad and Port Elizabeth 10111 call centre, led to the arrest of 2 suspects aged between 23 and 28 and recovery of a vehicle that was hijacked in Kwanabuhle in Uitenhage on 12 March 2015.

This morning, at about 07:30 Mount Road Sector Manager received information about a suspicious vehicle driving around Newton Park. This information was given to a Mount Road SAPS Flying squad vehicle that was on patrol, which then followed up.

The 2 Flying squad members were still patrolling when they noticed a silver Polo at C/O 4th Avenue and Cape Road, Newton Park fitting the description of the vehicle that was reported as ‘suspicious’ in Newton Park with 2 occupants inside. The members verified the registration on radio control and discovered that the number plates were false. They instructed the vehicle to pull over in order to further investigate. When they verified the registration number on the license disk, the vehicle was positively linked to a vehicle that was reported as hijacked from KwaNobuhle, Uitenhage.

The 2 suspects were arrested and charged for possession of suspected hijacked vehicle and theft. They will appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 7 April 2015. The confiscated vehicle will be returned to its lawful owner.

Mount Road Cluster Commander, Major General Daniel Rabie commended the 2 officers for the arrest. “Your prompt response and team work have yielded the desired results, continue to work hard so that our people can have a peaceful and crime free Easter. We have pledged to clamp down on crime, protect the public including their property and this success is an indication that our members have heeded to the call,” said Major General Dawie Rabie.

Also view:

Hijack Prevention Guidelines

Hijacked vehicle recovered and suspect arrested in Newton Park

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

The vehicle sales industry experienced virtually no growth this past March, according to the latest data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa). Industry sales totalled 55 449 vehicles, 9 more vehicles than March 2014.

Passenger cars contributed 35 548 units to this total but were down 3% year-on-year. By contrast, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) sales for March totalled 16 808 units, up 5.5% year-on-year. But those industry numbers were countered by actual consumer demand, influencing dealer channel sales to grow 1.2% for passenger cars and 8.3% for LCV sales, year-on-year.

“While industry sales for passenger cars were down, dealer channel sales remained strong. It’s an indicator that consumer demand is holding steady, and buyers are still visiting dealerships,” said Simphiwe Nghona, executive head of motor division at WesBank. “The rental industry is down 58%, compared to March last year, and this is what has negated the growth seen elsewhere in the industry.”

WesBank’s data reflects this consumer demand, with a 20% growth in vehicle finance applications, compared to March 2014. New vehicle finance applications grew by 15%, and demand for used car finance grew by 22%.

OEM trade-in incentives have continued to attract buyers to the new market. This is reflected in the used-to-new ratio, which was 1.4:1 in February and shifted in favour of new vehicles, to 1.29:1, in March. This uptick in marketing incentives is attributed to the end-of-quarter sales drive.

“With enticing trade-in offers on the table consumers are also opting to bring forward their replacement cycles,” said Nghona.

Vehicle sales remain in line with WesBank’s view of the market, which should end the year up 0.87%.

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

The vehicle sales industry experienced virtually no growth this past March, according to the latest data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa). Industry sales totalled 55 449 vehicles, 9 more vehicles than March 2014.

Passenger cars contributed 35 548 units to this total but were down 3% year-on-year. By contrast, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) sales for March totalled 16 808 units, up 5.5% year-on-year. But those industry numbers were countered by actual consumer demand, influencing dealer channel sales to grow 1.2% for passenger cars and 8.3% for LCV sales, year-on-year.

“While industry sales for passenger cars were down, dealer channel sales remained strong. It’s an indicator that consumer demand is holding steady, and buyers are still visiting dealerships,” said Simphiwe Nghona, executive head of motor division at WesBank. “The rental industry is down 58%, compared to March last year, and this is what has negated the growth seen elsewhere in the industry.”

WesBank’s data reflects this consumer demand, with a 20% growth in vehicle finance applications, compared to March 2014. New vehicle finance applications grew by 15%, and demand for used car finance grew by 22%.

OEM trade-in incentives have continued to attract buyers to the new market. This is reflected in the used-to-new ratio, which was 1.4:1 in February and shifted in favour of new vehicles, to 1.29:1, in March. This uptick in marketing incentives is attributed to the end-of-quarter sales drive.

“With enticing trade-in offers on the table consumers are also opting to bring forward their replacement cycles,” said Nghona.

Vehicle sales remain in line with WesBank’s view of the market, which should end the year up 0.87%.

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

The vehicle sales industry experienced virtually no growth this past March, according to the latest data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa). Industry sales totalled 55 449 vehicles, 9 more vehicles than March 2014.

Passenger cars contributed 35 548 units to this total but were down 3% year-on-year. By contrast, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) sales for March totalled 16 808 units, up 5.5% year-on-year. But those industry numbers were countered by actual consumer demand, influencing dealer channel sales to grow 1.2% for passenger cars and 8.3% for LCV sales, year-on-year.

“While industry sales for passenger cars were down, dealer channel sales remained strong. It’s an indicator that consumer demand is holding steady, and buyers are still visiting dealerships,” said Simphiwe Nghona, executive head of motor division at WesBank. “The rental industry is down 58%, compared to March last year, and this is what has negated the growth seen elsewhere in the industry.”

WesBank’s data reflects this consumer demand, with a 20% growth in vehicle finance applications, compared to March 2014. New vehicle finance applications grew by 15%, and demand for used car finance grew by 22%.

OEM trade-in incentives have continued to attract buyers to the new market. This is reflected in the used-to-new ratio, which was 1.4:1 in February and shifted in favour of new vehicles, to 1.29:1, in March. This uptick in marketing incentives is attributed to the end-of-quarter sales drive.

“With enticing trade-in offers on the table consumers are also opting to bring forward their replacement cycles,” said Nghona.

Vehicle sales remain in line with WesBank’s view of the market, which should end the year up 0.87%.

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

Vehicle review: Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

This impressive new Mercedes is an energetic, sporty drive – but it does take a bit of obtaining utilised to, writes motor reviewer Tim Barnes-Clay.

Often a pair of new shoes feels just right.

No blisters ever seem and they soon turn out to be your go-to choice of footwear.

Initial discomfort

Other people lead to you a small discomfort at very first – but, after worn in, you really feel as though you’d by no means sauntered in something else.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 AMG Sport I drove was really significantly in the latter category.

It took me a although fine-tuning the seat to give me the greatest driving position. I then had to adjust the steering wheel numerous times – and then get the lumbar help proper.

For the initial day I just couldn’t nail it and, squirming uncomfortably, I was convinced this auto wasn’t for me.

Adjustments required

But, by the second day of my week with the Merc, I felt it was created with my name on it.

Some auto seats just need a rapid twiddle here and there and you are all set up. 

I consider the CLA’s sports seats with integral headrests simply take some receiving used to.

They’re sculpted in a curve-forward position, and make you really feel like your head needs to go back far more – despite the fact that that could have been me being fussy on the day the auto was delivered.

An outstanding machine

Anyway, adequate of the seats and my hair-splitting: let me clarify why, on the whole, the CLA is an excellent piece of German machinery.

Aesthetically, its proportions and dynamic design and style give the compact 4-door saloon-cum-coupé an unmistakable look.

The vehicle’;s striking attributes include the bonnet embedded in the front end with energy-domes and a diamond-appear grille.

The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create a characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime driving lights and indicators.

‘Energetic and youthful’;

This light signet defines the car’;s energetic kind and shapes a new, youthful Mercedes face.

The width-emphasising rear end exudes muscle and athleticism, featuring an interplay amongst convex and concave surfaces.

The gently sloping roof contour and the pronounced, hallmark curvature of the rear window, offer the CLA 250 AMG Sport with a coupé-style character from the rear, too.

The exterior’;s progressive, sporty appearance is continued inside the Benz.

Much more seating problems

All trim surfaces are galvanised in silver shadow, resulting in a cool-to-the-touch metallic finish.

The instrument panel incorporates 5 big round vents and there’s a prominent totally free-standing display screen that attributes a black piano-lacquer-look front panel with a flush-fitting silver frame.

In the back, the seats, as soon as again, turn out to be a sticking point.

They are cramped for adults and not even the ideal match for 2 child seats, but my 8- and 5-year-old coped without too considerably squabbling.

Spacious and precise

On the plus side, boot space is good for this type of auto.

On the road, the CLA 250’s turbocharged 4-cylinder engine rocks for most circumstances.

The automobile has excellent grip when pushed via corners and its 6-speed automatic transmission climbs and descends excellently under pressure.

Especially noteworthy is the Mercedes’ direct steer method, which gives precise feedback in comparison with conventional power steering.

Safety hasn’t been overlooked either, with several driving assistance systems supplying assistance and lowering your workload behind the wheel.

Normal-fit characteristics include drowsiness detection and radar-based collision prevention help with adaptive brake assist, which assists to safeguard you from collisions from a speed of only 4mph.

Pros & cons

• Design √


• Steering √


• Grip √


• Security kit √


• Rear seats X

Rapidly facts

• Max speed: 149mph


• -62 mph: 6.6 secs


• Combined mpg: 42.8


• Engine: 1991cc 4 cylinders 16 valve turbo petrol


• Max. power (bhp): 208


• Max. torque (lb.ft): 258


• CO2: 154g/km


• Value: £33,440

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Vehicle review: Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

The vehicle sales industry experienced virtually no growth this past March, according to the latest data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa). Industry sales totalled 55 449 vehicles, 9 more vehicles than March 2014.

Passenger cars contributed 35 548 units to this total but were down 3% year-on-year. By contrast, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) sales for March totalled 16 808 units, up 5.5% year-on-year. But those industry numbers were countered by actual consumer demand, influencing dealer channel sales to grow 1.2% for passenger cars and 8.3% for LCV sales, year-on-year.

“While industry sales for passenger cars were down, dealer channel sales remained strong. It’s an indicator that consumer demand is holding steady, and buyers are still visiting dealerships,” said Simphiwe Nghona, executive head of motor division at WesBank. “The rental industry is down 58%, compared to March last year, and this is what has negated the growth seen elsewhere in the industry.”

WesBank’s data reflects this consumer demand, with a 20% growth in vehicle finance applications, compared to March 2014. New vehicle finance applications grew by 15%, and demand for used car finance grew by 22%.

OEM trade-in incentives have continued to attract buyers to the new market. This is reflected in the used-to-new ratio, which was 1.4:1 in February and shifted in favour of new vehicles, to 1.29:1, in March. This uptick in marketing incentives is attributed to the end-of-quarter sales drive.

“With enticing trade-in offers on the table consumers are also opting to bring forward their replacement cycles,” said Nghona.

Vehicle sales remain in line with WesBank’s view of the market, which should end the year up 0.87%.

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

Hilux propels Toyota to Top Spot in Vehicle sales in March

;

• Toyota leads vehicle sales in March


• Hilux is SA’;s best-seller

;

Market segment	March 2014	March 2015	% change
Passenger vehicles	36,644	35,548	-3%
Light commercial vehicles	15,933	16,808	5.5%
Medium commercial vehicles	1,015	1,104	8.8%
Heavy commercial vehicles	485	578	19%
Extra Heavy commercial vehicles	1,261	1,306	3.5%
Bus	102	105	2.9%
Vehicle exports	24,659	34,147	38.5%
Overall market (local)	55,440	55,449	0%

;

Toyota once again posted the best sales performance in March, garnering a dominant 20% market share, to further entrench its leading position in the SA automotive sales race.

The long-term market leader delivered 11,047 new vehicles during March, driven by a healthy demand for Hilux which once again took top honours as SA’;s best-seller with a total of 3,625 units sold for the month (31% of the 1-ton bakkie segment); 518 units ahead of its  closest rival. Other top performers from the brand include the Corolla/Quest combination, holding the C-segment lead at 37% with 1,745 units sold; while the Fortuner secured its Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment leader position with close to 900 units finding a home during March.

On the Truck front, Hino South Africa celebrated a record sales month with 523 Hino and Dyna trucks being sold – this translates into 16,9% share in the overall truck market and an exceptional performance in the Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV) segment where the brand boasts a  30% market share.

“Our performance up till now proves that Toyota has an even firmer grip on its long-term position as the best-selling automotive brand in the country,” says Calvyn Hamman, Toyota South Africa’;s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “More impressive is the fact that this has been achieved in the face of increased competition, much of which has been directly targeted at Toyota.

“While the increase in the investment-led medium and heavy truck segments which posted gains of 8.8% and 7.6% respectively shows a confidence in the country, the decline in passenger segment shows a level of caution with the wider car-buying public – this can be attributed to uncertainty around fuel prices, interest rate increases and vehicle price increase,” says Hamman, adding that Toyota remain cautiously optimistic about the 630,000 sales forecast for 2015

On the vehicle financing front, March 2015 saw new Toyota finance applications increase by 6% over the 6-month rolling average and 16% month-on-month; while new finance application year to date are up by 8% year-on-year and show and increase of 10% if compared to March 2015.04.02

“Toyota dealer generated finance applications for passenger, LCV and used cars processed by Toyota Financial Services increased 13% month-on-month,” says Marius Burger, CEO of TFS.

Hilux propels Toyota to Top Spot in Vehicle sales in March

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March

The vehicle sales industry experienced virtually no growth this past March, according to the latest data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa). Industry sales totalled 55 449 vehicles, 9 more vehicles than March 2014.

Passenger cars contributed 35 548 units to this total but were down 3% year-on-year. By contrast, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) sales for March totalled 16 808 units, up 5.5% year-on-year. But those industry numbers were countered by actual consumer demand, influencing dealer channel sales to grow 1.2% for passenger cars and 8.3% for LCV sales, year-on-year.

“While industry sales for passenger cars were down, dealer channel sales remained strong. It’s an indicator that consumer demand is holding steady, and buyers are still visiting dealerships,” said Simphiwe Nghona, executive head of motor division at WesBank. “The rental industry is down 58%, compared to March last year, and this is what has negated the growth seen elsewhere in the industry.”

WesBank’s data reflects this consumer demand, with a 20% growth in vehicle finance applications, compared to March 2014. New vehicle finance applications grew by 15%, and demand for used car finance grew by 22%.

OEM trade-in incentives have continued to attract buyers to the new market. This is reflected in the used-to-new ratio, which was 1.4:1 in February and shifted in favour of new vehicles, to 1.29:1, in March. This uptick in marketing incentives is attributed to the end-of-quarter sales drive.

“With enticing trade-in offers on the table consumers are also opting to bring forward their replacement cycles,” said Nghona.

Vehicle sales remain in line with WesBank’s view of the market, which should end the year up 0.87%.

Also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

Consumer demand in the vehicle industry remains steady in March