Monthly Archives: July 2024

July 19, 2024
Staying Cool Whilst Driving

As we all know to well in the UK the summer can be hit and miss. But when the sun does decide to bless us the temperatures can sometimes soar to 30 degrees or more, with that in mind here is an article to help you stay cool during the scorching days.

With grey and black cars being among the most popular color choices for cars, this increases the chance of your car heating up. The color black absorbs more sunlight than the color white. The more sunlight it absorbs, the more heat it gives off. Getting in to a boiling car on an already hot day is rather uncomfortable and can set the mood for the drive to one of easy irritation. 

So lets look at some ways to make your drive a little more comfortable.

  • Air Conditioning on rather than having the windows open, it can reduce the temperature of the car very quickly. Especially whilst driving on the motor way at high speeds it will dramatically reduce the in car noise.
  • Cooling mats have recently been raved about there efficiency, they are not only a cost effective and reusable option but also can be easily cleaned.
  • Parking in the shade is also a good prevention method to reduce the vehicle heating up before you’ve even got in.
  • Opening all windows on first entering the car will allow the hot air to escape before you crank up the air con.
  • Dressing accordingly to the weather can also help you stay cool, something not to restricting and airy.
  • Staying hydrated is possibly the most important one, as a cold bottle of water will cool down your body temperature.

 

 

However, wearing flip-flops when driving can pose a risk to your safety, as they don’t have a back. Therefore, a flip-flop could get caught underneath a pedal, preventing it from being pushed down.

Whenever feasible, aim to minimize driving during the peak daytime heat and plan your journeys for the early morning or late evening when temperatures are more moderate.For leather or vinyl seats, consider draping a towel or blanket over them while the car is parked to safeguard against burns and excessive heat buildup.

Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The interior temperature can skyrocket, leading to heatstroke or even death.

 

The hot weather presents its challenges but with the correct measures followed we can all enjoy the little bit of sunshine we are granted.

 

 

 

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July 11, 2024
Congestion On London Roads

Traffic data and information supplier Inrix has published a report 2023 Global Traffic Scorecard which indicates London has the most congested roads in Europe for the third year running. Motorists went through 99 hours on average in traffic in 2023, an increase compared to 97 hours the previous year. The report concluded that the roads in London are only just behind New York and Mexico. Both China and India were not included in the report.

Author of the report, Bob Pishue, said: “We are seeing travel return to pre-Covid levels.

“The UK and Europe have seen smaller increases in congestion this year than in other parts of the world which indicates that these countries have found their new travel norms.

“While London remains most impacted by congestion in the UK, its drop to third suggests that other large global cities have returned to pre-Covid levels of activity.

“As an indication of strong economic activity, increased congestion can be a positive sign for cities.”

The report indicated that the time spent in traffic was up by 3% when compared to levels from before the pandemic.

The fact levels continue to rise means more drivers have to factor in added time to their journeys and commutes, which of course is a frustrating factor added to most peoples mornings. This is also combined with added fuel for most motorists.

There has been talk of park and ride schemes being implemented which although will be a costly outlay, will help cut the daily traffic build up.

The other concern is the raising level of pollution due to the congestion.

London Air say:

“Diesel cars, trucks and buses emit particularly high concentrations of fine soot and large numbers of very toxic substances coat these particles. Toxic substances are also found in the coarse particles formed from brake wear and road surface abrasion and these particles are re-suspended in the air by moving traffic.”

 

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