First Gear English edition

Everything you need to know about your first car

First Gear

Everything you need to know about your first car

Welcome to the wonderful world of wheels!We know that every single person dreams of owning a car. It’s understandable: a car epitomises independence. Success. Stature. Mobility. The freedom to go your own way.

But we also know that the decision to purchase a car can be fraught with challenges. What car do you buy? What can you afford? What about the servicing requirements? What safety features should you look out for? What about safety out on the road? These – and many other – important questions plague your mind.

First Gear aims to address all these topics – and many other essential issues associated with car ownership. We have canvassed the opinions of the world’s leading authorities – and this book aims to give you independent, authoritative and utterly essential advice. We want to take the mystery and malaise out of car ownership, and replace it with easy-to-follow advice and tips… so that your road to car ownership isn’t filled with potholes!

We trust that it will provide you with a stress-free introduction to the world of wheels.

Enjoy your first car; you’ve worked hard for it!

First Gear 3 2 First Gear

Meet Jack and JillFirst Gear is a hands-on guide aimed at men and women who are purchasing their very first car. Bearing this in mind, the authors of this book chose to come up with two fictional characters called Jack and Jill, because they represent archetypal readers.

So who are Jack and Jill? Well, we believe that they are typical first-time car buyers. Jack is a young guy who aspires to buy an ultra-fast sports car (although maybe his wallet won’t quite meet his aspirations). Jill is a young lady who wants a stylish car that suits her lifestyle and her desire to be at the height of fashion.

We’re talking two typical young people – a man and woman with hopes, aspirations and dreams that are shared with millions of people all over the planet.

We hope that you can relate to Jack and Jill… and that you can learn from some of their experiences at the dealership, out on the road or whenever you drive your car.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: First things first 06

Chapter 2: Choosing your ride 14

Chapter 3: Dealing with the dealer 22

Chapter 4: Signing on the dotted line 28

Chapter 5: Technology on wheels 36

Chapter 6: Safety in your car 44

Chapter 7: Safety on the road 52

Chapter 8: Avoid fuel funk 62

Chapter 9: Tech talk 70

Chapter 10: SOS 78

Chapter 11: Bling it on 84

Chapter 12: Green 88

First Gear Everything you need to know about your first car

Published by Ford Communications20th Floor, Lake Rajada Office Complex, 193/82-86 Ratchadapisek Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand. Director/Publisher: Whitney Foard Small; Managing Editor: Mia Barrett; Editor: Charleen Clarke; Writers: PRISM Asia Pacific and Africa Content Factory; Illustrator: Junho Kim; Design: Content Factory, Europe.

A publication of Ford Communications Network. December 2011.


But your answer needs to take into account more than just the purchase price. This, we’re afraid, is just the tip of the motoring iceberg. The costs of financing, maintaining, repairing and insuring your car – along with incidental expenses such as parking and registration fees – also need be factored in. As Ford Asia Pacific and Africa Director of Sales Mark Winslow points out: “It’s not only the price of the car itself, but the cost of ownership that impacts affordability.”

Of course, most guys – take young Jack for example – can’t wait to take their girlfriend for a cruise in a flashy new convertible or a racy Focus RS. After all, they do have a certain image to maintain. But, for most first-time buyers, the more affordable Figo subcompact or the Fiesta are more realistic choices. And the really terrific news is the fact that they are still fun cars to drive – you really don’t need to spend a small fortune in order to have a cool, hip motoring experience.

It all boils down to what you can afford. “Customers should not feel too much pressure from their car payment,” notes Ford Automotive Finance (China) Vice President of Sales and Marketing Eric Chou. “If a customer chooses to finance a car, his monthly dispensable income (money left over after taxes, rent or mortgage payment, and basic living expenses are deducted) should be more than twice the amount of the monthly payment.

Money isn’t everything but it sure does help when you want to buy a car. So, unless a long-lost great uncle has left you a small fortune, the first question most of us need to ask before shopping for a new car is: “What can I afford to drive?”

CHAPTER 1: First things first


fan pages exist for many new vehicles, and lots of helpful information, from both current owners and the manufacturer, can be found there.

Even the most reliable cars on the market need periodic maintenance and repairs. Tyres, filters, fluids and belts need to be replaced regularly. A stray pebble on the highway could damage the windscreen. And, if you are unlucky and have an accident, you could be replacing a fender or headlight – and more.

“Or, to put it another way, the customer’s average bank account balance should be at least double the amount of the car pay-ment,” he adds.

The authoritative Consumer Guide Automotive says it could even be a good idea to shop for finance before going car hunting. “Decide how much you can afford and how much you are willing to pay before you shop for a vehicle. If, like most consumers, you have to borrow money, shop for a loan before you shop for a vehicle,” it suggests.

Standard Bank of South Africa advises prospective car buyers to very carefully consider how a car purchase will impact

their personal finances, because everyone should aim to save at least a small portion of their pay check.

“The first question to ask is how much you can afford to pay on a monthly basis,” says Keith Watson, director of strategy and business support, Standard Bank. If the car is going to add 10 percent to your monthly debt, that is probably manageable. As much as guys such as Jack get a kick out of driving the latest, sexiest set of wheels, your car should not cost more than your house!

How much fuel your car will consume is also an important budget consideration. Estimate the average distance travelled each month, and divide this by the car’s

4.5l/100km The fabulously low fuel consumption of the Fiesta 1.6 TDCi – a fun but sensible buy.

estimated fuel mileage to figure out how many litres of petrol it will take to get you where you need to go. Don’t forget to allow for future price increases at the pump – or you could run out of money before you run out of fuel!When estimating the cost of owning a new car, repairs and maintenance also come into play. Once you’ve chosen the model and brand that tickles your fancy, it’s a good idea to gauge the reliability of the target vehicle. Information about what types of repairs a specific model is likely to need over time is available online and with consumer groups, as well as data about consumer complaints and recalls. Facebook


First Gear 11

The cost of replacement parts can vary greatly. Imported vehicles are often the most expensive – and take longer – to repair because spare parts may need to be shipped from abroad.

The more frugal among us save up all their pennies before heading to the dealership to make their purchase. But most car-buyers only have enough money saved for a down payment and will need some sort of financing plan to complete the sale. Dealer finance is often the most convenient and popular option.

At reputable dealerships, the staff will sit down with the customer and tailor a payment plan to meet their individual needs, after calculating monthly income, household expenses, mortgage payments, and food and entertainment expenditures. They can adjust the amount you must pay each month, or the number of payments you have to make over the lifetime of the contract, depending on the buyer’s financial situation.

• Keep your emotions under control. Be conservative and don’t rush; you’ll have to live with this purchase for years to come

• If you’re financing your car purchase, your monthly payment should not put a big strain on your budget. Don’t bite off more than you can chew

• Make sure you understand all the terms of your buyer’s contract, paying special attention to the interest rate and whether there is a balloon payment required

• Figure out how much it will cost to keep the car running before you buy. Remember: cost of ownership counts!

• Shop around for the best insurance rates

Five fast buying tips

7 out of 10The number of car purchases in which women are involved in the UK.

5

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Keep in mind that lower monthly payments mean you’ll be paying off the car for a longer period of time, and more of your hard-earned money will be going towards the interest. And remember that interest rates rise and fall. Rising interest rates could affect the terms of your car repayment, along with other debts like a home loan or credit card. Even a small rate hike could raise your monthly payments across the board and bust your budget, so it’s advisable to allow for some wiggle room. In certain instances, you can fix the interest rate (this means that it will neither increase nor decrease, so you know exactly what you will be spending for the entire duration of the finance plan). Chat to the dealer about this possibility; he/she will be able to explain exactly how it works.

611 millionThe predicted number of cars in India by 2050, making it the world’s largest car market.Before you sign on the dotted line,

make sure you can see the bigger picture and understand all the payments that need to be made. Some finance plans call for what is known as a “balloon payment”. This is the total balance remaining on the car at the end of the payment plan, and it usually needs to be paid in full as a lump sum after all the monthly payments have been made... which even though it’s at the back of your mind, is still a nasty surprise if you don’t have the cash. If you don’t understand all the terms and conditions of the contract, ask an independent financing professional to look it over before you make any firm commitment.

In conclusion, it’s very important not to overreach. (You know what they say about car sickness: it’s the feeling you get when the monthly payment is due!) So it’s best to be conservative when calculating what monthly instalment you can afford, especially if this is your first car purchase. It’s seriously bad news to default on a car payment; this could affect your credit rating and thus your ability to get a loan, buy a house, or a second car in the future.

If you begin to miss monthly car payments, sometimes the dealership can arrange a new payment schedule. But, if you fall too far behind, you could lose the car entirely... and all the money you have invested thus far!

So make 100 percent sure you commit to a monthly payment you can handle to avoid an unpleasant visit from the Repo Man (just in case you don’t know this guy; he’s the chap who comes to repossess your possessions when you don’t pay!)

Insurance requirements vary from country to country, so be sure to check the laws in your

country before you purchase a vehicle.Irrespective of the rules and regulations within

your specific country though, insurance is a no-brainer, because that car of yours represents a massive investment! As such, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa Director of Sales Mark Winslow advises customers to purchase comprehensive coverage to fully protect their investment. “If you can’t afford comprehensive insurance, perhaps you should consider a less expensive car,” he says.Sports cars are generally more expensive to insure, and young drivers often pay higher monthly pre-miums than older, more experienced drivers with an established safety record. For smaller monthly payments drivers can opt to pay a larger “excess”, or deductible, in case of an accident. This is the amount the car owner must pay before the insurance company will reimburse him/her. A higher deductible means lower pay-ments, and vice-versa.For example Jack visited his local insurance salesman to see how much it would cost to insure a new Ford Focus. Since the down payment on the car was going to wipe out his savings, he was looking for the lowest monthly payment plan possible. He didn’t want to spend more than USD 1,500 per year for compre-hensive coverage.

The salesman, after factoring in Jack’s driving record, age, marital status and vehicle model, offered Jack a plan that

fitted his budget: USD 130 per month would pay for comprehensive cover-

age of the new Focus. Jack was

thrilled; this was a price he could afford. But, after reading the policy closely, Jack was confused. “What’s this bit about a USD 2,000 ‘excess’?” he asked.The salesman explained to Jack that, if he had an accident, he’d be responsible for any repairs that cost less than USD 2,000. If the car need-ed two new doors and a fender, and the body shop charges USD 2,300 for the job, Jack would have to pay USD 2,000, while the insur-ance company would pay USD 300.“Wait a minute!” Jack told the insurance agent. “I can’t afford to pay USD 2,000. After I buy this car, I won’t have any savings left!”The salesman crunched the numbers again, and came up with another plan for Jack, which provided the smallest “excess” possi-ble, USD 100. But this time, the monthly payment came out to more than USD 235 per month.“That’s almost twice as much!” Jack pro-tested. “I can’t afford that!”“I’m very sorry, sir,” the salesman replied. “But this is how insurance works. The more you pay up front, the less you will have to pay for any damages later. If you want to pay the minimum premium possible, that’s fine. But further on down the road, it could cost you a lot more.”*

Source: Progressive Insurance Co.

*This statement is a guideline only, and not advice that should be relied upon. Insurance advice must be sought from an accredited financial services provider.

Insider insurance tips

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Choosing your ride

CHAPTER 2:


3. EvaluatE thE valuE addsAll cars come with extra bits and pieces. We’re not talking about dangling dice and fluffy seats; we’re referring to value-adds such as service plans and warranties. These can vary significantly from car to car and, when things go wrong, they can make a huge difference. A warranty generally covers all the major mechanical items on the car – ideally, you want a warranty that is available for as many years and kilometres as possible. The same can be said of a service or maintenance plan – you want it to be valid for as long as possible, so that you have peace of mind and know

that you won’t have any unexpected motoring expenses that will blow your monthly budget out of the water.

4. GooGlE itThe Internet is a wonderful source of information on your potential car. Google whatever cars interest you and see what pops up. If that car is unreliable, you will find loads of motorists complaining about it on consumer sites. You will be able to read reviews by independent motoring journalists too, which could steer you in the right direction (if you will excuse the pun).

Do you want something that’s especially versatile, and can be all things to all people? Maybe a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) could be the answer.

As the Wisebuyer’s Guide notes: “Buying a car requires commitment. The two of you are going to be seeing a lot of each other, so it’s best if you’re happy. There’s a lot of money at stake, so you don’t want to be disappointed.”

So where do you start? How do you pick the vehicle that’s absolutely perfect for you? Should it be something practical and sensible or something wild and wicked? And how do you know you haven’t selected a complete lemon? Follow our ten-point guide and chances are excellent that you will meet your dream date (in terms of wheels anyway).

1. dEcidE what typE oF vEhiclE you wantThere are so many different kinds of vehicles on the market, and your choice – a sedan, hatchback, coupe, 4x4, pickup,

“green” vehicle, sports car or SUV perhaps – will be defined by your motoring requirements. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong choice: the type of vehicle you select is dependent entirely on your individual needs and budget.

2. nEw or usEd?We all dream of buying a brand new set of wheels, complete with that incredible new car smell but in reality used cars often do offer a good value for money proposition. If you cannot afford a new car, invest in a low mileage used car instead. But make sure you buy a car with a full service history (a service history is a record of all the mechanical work that has been done to the car). And only buy from a reputable organisation. Resist that unbelievable bargain at all costs; remember… if the deal appears too good to be true, it probably is.

Prefer something a little sportier? Then consider a hatchback or a coupe.

The average length of time that three quarters of car buyers spent online when making a new vehicle purchase in 2008, according to J.D. Power and Associates.

hours7

Do you want something practical with a boot? A sedan will work for you.


Fancy the idea of heading off-road? A 4x4 could be the ideal vehicle for you, or maybe even a pickup (if you fancy the notion of being able to toss stuff in the load box).

How about something that’s dead sexy? Hello sports car…

5. considEr colourColour is important due to resale values. Cars in popular colours may be easier to sell and boast better resale value. When deciding on colour, also bear in mind that certain colours are more popular in certain markets than others.

6. FuEl consumption to thE ForE Before you sign on the dotted line, you need to investigate the facts and the figures. It costs an arm and a leg to fill a fuel tank – so how economical is your potential car? That sports car may accelerate faster than a rocket, but remember that it may gulp down

fuel just as fast. Similarly, a vehicle such as a large saloon or SUV will typically be thirstier than a small hatchback or sedan. That’s because bigger cars are generally a bit heavier, so while they do offer sensational versatility and practicality, there is a price to pay at the fuel pump. There may also be a price to pay in terms of CO2 emissions.

7. saFEty FEaturEs arE importantWe have a whole chapter devoted to the vital issue of safety. Decide which safety features are the most important to you and ensure that your new car has these features before you make your purchase.

Do you really need a bigger

engine?

Rushing into a decision

Buying with your heart only

Blowing your budget

Only considering the purchase price

Purchasing a cheap, unknown brand

Common errors when buying a car

8. pick a brandNow that you have decided what type of vehicle you’d like, and whether you’re going the new or used route, it’s time to nail your colours to the brand mast of your choice. This can be a tough one: you may be tempted by the bargain basement pricing options of some lesser known brands or the glamour of an exotic one. It’s very important to be sensible in this regard though. Deal with a company with a proud heritage, one that has been around for a while and has an excellent reputation for delivering quality products. You’re making a substantial investment, so only deal with a company


10. Finally... pick a ridESo you have made your decision. You have decided which car to buy. The last factor you need to take into consideration is the specific model. Cars are generally available in a range – models within that range will differ in terms of engine capacity and specification level. Carefully compare the models within the range. Do you really need

a bigger (and often thirstier) engine? Do you need the luxury specification level? Are electric windows really necessary at the back of the car (when you will hardly ever use the back seat)? What safety features are on offer with each specific model? Remember: the bigger the engine and the more luxurious the car, the higher its price tag.

Are you looking to save money? A vehicle with great fuel economy could be what you’re looking for.

that is ethical. Take Ford Motor Company, for instance. It has been recognised as one of the world’s most ethical companies by the Ethisphere Institute, an international business ethics think tank. This is quite some honour; thousands of companies in more than 100 countries and 36 industries were evaluated and Ford was the one and only automaker to receive this honour in 2010.

9. thE tEst drivE (and pay attEntion)Once you’ve decided on a short list of vehicles, you need to take each one for a test drive. The single most important question you need to ask yourself is this: would I be comfortable and happy in this vehicle each and every day for the next few years? It’s a good idea to test drive the car on roads that you will typically drive on once you have purchased a vehicle. If, for instance, you spend most of your time in the city, ensure that your test route includes driving on busy city roads.

Ideally, you want a warranty that is available for as many years and kilometres as possible.


Walking into a big, shiny car dealership showroom for the first time can be really exciting – and often intimidating. But don’t be scared. Remember, at every step of the way, that the sales team is there to serve you. The customer is king – or queen – of the showroom!

Dealing with the dealer

CHAPTER 3:


ChoosinG a dealer that’s riGht For youStart by looking at dealer outlets that are close to your home or workplace. “You can build a lasting relationship and get better follow-up service if you stick to your hometown or where you work,” advises

Joseph Cueter, operations manager for Ford’s Customer Service Division, Asia Pacific and Africa.

“Your local dealer should be what we at Ford like to call a ‘hometown hero’,” he says. “They should be engaged with the local community – supporting local schools, sponsoring sports programmes.”

Dealers that advertise in smaller, local newspapers and support education, sport, health and environmental initiatives in the community are more likely to form a long-term relationship with customers. “Look for anything that indicates they are not just looking for a one-time sale,” adds Cueter.

Of course, you may be able to get the car you want at a cheaper price from a

dealership in a neighbouring province or city. But any discounts you find may not be worth it in the long run. It’s inconvenient and costly to travel a long way to bring your car in for service or repairs.

Since dealers are generally the best source for warranty-covered repairs and maintenance, take a close look at the service centre. Ask around: have your neighbours or colleagues been satisfied with the service provided by the dealership? It’s also a good idea to look for certifications

that prove the repair shop meets international standards. Ask to see the qualifications of the technical staff and service advisors. Certificates from the Society of Automotive Engineers, for example, are good professional credentials. So are factory certifications from Ford-authorised dealerships that show the mechanics have been specifically trained to work on certain components.

CommuniCation is keyDealership sales staff should be friendly and helpful, but not pushy. You should be warmly welcomed when you enter the showroom. The salesperson ought to ask how they can be of service and offer some general information about the dealership

Keep in mind, however, that a car is just like a girlfriend or boyfriend:

Looks are not a guarantee to happiness.


As you do a 360-degree stroll around it, check the seams between body panels and doors; are they evenly spaced, without gaps or irregularities? Does the colour look good? Is the paint smooth, with mirror like reflections?

before trying to steer you towards any particular vehicle or promotion. To avoid the hard sell, you may want to tell the salesperson that you won’t be making a purchase today, and are only visiting to gather information.

“You want a salesperson who listens to you and asks meaningful questions about your transportation needs,” says Cueter.

You also want a salesperson who treats you with respect; someone who truly has your best interests at heart.

Prepare a list of the top ten features that you require in your new vehicle; this will help the salesperson direct you to the right

model. If you live in a tropical climate, you may need air conditioning. If you drive a vast distance to work every day, you’ll need a car that cruises well and has excellent fuel economy. If you have a big family, a roomy interior will be a requirement.

“Make a checklist of what you need to be a satisfied owner,” advises Cueter. “If the car meets all of these requirements, performs well on the road and appeals to you visually, you’ll be in good shape.”

the test driveEnsure that you test drive and carefully inspect a car before buying it. You wouldn’t buy a USD 15 jacket without trying it on first. So why should you buy a USD 15,000 car that you have never driven?

If you are an inexperienced or unlicensed driver, bring a qualified driver along who can evaluate the vehicle’s driving dynamics: handling, acceleration, braking

The number of new dealerships that Ford plans to establish in China to meet demand.

100performance, etc. If you haven’t driven much, you may not be able to realistically compare the car’s features or performance to competing models.

Check the exterior carefully, with an eye for details. Open the boot to see if there’s enough storage space. Is there a full-sized spare tyre? If you drive on rough roads you may need one.

Consumer Reports, a U.S. magazine and website published by a non-profit consumer advocacy group, recommends walking in a circle around the car to perform an overall quality check:

Keep in mind, however, that a car is just like a girlfriend or boyfriend: looks are not a guarantee to happiness. And while it’s great to have a sexy car, you and your passengers will be travelling inside the vehicle. So

make sure the seats are comfortable and that the controls are easy to reach. The speedometer, fuel gauge, and other instruments should be clearly visible. The driver should be able to glance at the instruments and adjust the controls without taking his/her attention off the road.

Find a dealer near your workplace or home who you can trust and with whom you can build a lasting relationship

Make a checklist of what features you need to be a satisfied owner and bring it to the dealer

Look for a salesperson who listens to you and is focused on your needs. Avoid the hard sell

Do your research – on the Internet and with consumer groups and magazines – before negotiating a purchase price

It’s a good idea to test drive the car before you buy

Fast facts


CHAPTER 4: Signing on the dotted line

Once you’ve managed to find a vehicle that meets your

needs at a trustworthy dealership, it’s time to start

negotiating. You should chat to the salesperson about

warranty and service plans in order to protect your financial

interest. In a nutshell, you need to get all the paperwork

in order.

We all know that you’re dying to get behind the wheel and head out on the road – but it’s very important to focus on all the details.

Knowledge is powerFirst things first: you need to agree on a price. The more you know, the more you

can save. If you learn how much others are paying for the car you want, you’ll know immediately if the price you’re being quoted is competitive.

“Do your research,” recommends Joseph Cueter, operations manager for Ford’s Customer Service Division, Asia Pacific and Africa. “By visiting chat rooms and reading

First gear 29 28 First gear

$5,000The amount you should budget for car maintenance over five years of ownership (if you won’t have a service or maintenance plan).

First gear 3130 First gear

online car forums and blogs, you are

going to see what people are paying

and find a price range.”

As we’ve already stressed, the sticker

price that’s adorning the window of

showroom vehicles may be negotiable.

Depending on what sort of sales

incentives auto manufacturers are

offering their dealers, and what bonuses

the dealers may be offering their sales

staff, the salesperson may be willing to

lower the price or add accessories.

Remember, sales staff always have

targets that they need to achieve… and

they will do a lot to achieve those

targets.

“Ask what kind of wiggle room is available,” Cueter advises. “Ask the dealer: ‘What can you do today to make me buy this vehicle?’ “

Keep in mind that car sales operate in cycles: there are high and low seasons. When sales in your market traditionally drop off, such as during the Lunar Festival in China and Taiwan, Christmas in Australia and Tet in Vietnam, dealers may be even more motivated than usual to make a sale.

There are other times when sales staff might be more willing to give customers a better deal. For example, at the end of the month, when dealerships are trying to meet sales quotas and companies are eager to post record monthly sales figures, you may have more leverage to negotiate.

If you see lots of promotions and rebates being offered for a particular

model, that’s a good indication that the salesperson might accept a lower price. Likewise, when car companies roll out new models, dealers will often be motivated to clear out existing inventory to make room for the latest product line-up.

As Jill discovered when she went car shopping, there is nothing wrong with buying what is known as a “previous generation model”, especially if you can get it at a great price. When car companies launch so-called “new” models, they are generally one of two things: a completely new car boasting all sorts of fabulous new features – known as a “new generation model” – or a “face-lifted model”, which has had moderate changes. In the case of the latter, they do not offer huge benefits over the models they are replacing (much like many movie stars,

Do your research

For more bargaining power, buy at the end of the year or month

Read the fine print: don’t pay for accessories or services you don’t need

Make sure there are no out-of-pocket expenses for warranty-covered repairs

Compare the warranties offered with different models

Fast facts5

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and tell you the repair is free of charge? Or when you go in, do you have to fill out a pile of paperwork, pay for the repair out of your own pocket and then submit a claim to be reimbursed under the warranty? Some companies out there make you do that,” explains Cueter. “When you bring your vehicle into a Ford dealership for a warranty-covered repair and provided the component you’re after is covered, you don’t have to pay anything up front and you don’t have to fill out lots of paperwork to get the service you’re entitled to.”

The warranty period can be extended for an additional fee. Warranty extensions do not have to be bought at the time of

purchase but, in most markets, you must purchase the extension before the initial time period runs out.

The terms and prices of the warranty agreements generally cannot be negotiated. But you can shop around and compare the different warranty options offered for a variety of new vehicles.

Consider the following example: one vehicle has a sticker price of USD 10,000, and comes with a one-year bumper-to-bumper manufacturer’s warranty. The dealership will sell a three-year warranty extension for USD 3,000. Another vehicle has a sticker price of USD 12,500. It comes with a five-year warranty. Even though the

they have just had a nip and a tuck here and there). Jill opted for an older model when she decided to invest in a nippy hatchback because it had all the safety and technology benefits of the face-lifted model, but the exterior and interior styling was slightly different. However, this did not bother Jill one iota when she discovered that she could knock 10 percent off the sticker price.

If you want to be the first one in your town to drive a new model, you will pay for the privilege, and Jill decided that this simply was not worthwhile. So, do as Jill did, and buy a previous generation car.

After you’ve agreed on a price with the salesperson, check the invoice carefully for hidden fees. Make sure you’re not paying for accessories or additional services that you don’t want, need or order. Don’t be

afraid to query any items on the invoice. Remember: you are the one with the power!

protect your investmentNow that you’ve successfully negotiated a purchase price, it’s time to think about how best to protect your investment. All reputable manufacturers offer a warranty with new car purchases.

A good warranty offers complete coverage and easy repairs at any dealership with no out-of-pocket expenses for warranty-covered repairs. Read the fine print carefully, as you would with any warranty, to understand the terms and conditions exactly.

“When you take your vehicle in for a warranty repair, will the dealer just hand you an invoice explaining what was fixed

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The sticker price that’s adorning the window of showroom vehicles may be negotiable.

first car boasts a cheaper purchase price, the second vehicle may be a better value for money proposition when you factor in the warranty coverage. So weigh up all these factors before deciding which vehicle to buy.

Remember, for your warranty to remain valid, you must maintain your vehicle and adhere to the servicing recommendations of the manufacturer. For instance, the oil must be changed regularly, and all hoses, belts and filters must be replaced on

schedule. You don’t need to fret about this; just take your car to a franchised dealer when its service is due – the professionals in the workshop will know precisely what to do.

The only snag, of course, is that it can be expensive to service a car. One way to negate this expense is to sign up for a maintenance or service plan that will ensure that all the necessary work is performed at a manufacturer-authorised dealership free of charge.

This really is a great way of ensuring that your car is constantly in tip-top condition while never having to stress about breaking the bank or cutting back on your entertainment budget. “It’s just like buying insurance,” Cueter says. “Pay a little today to avoid a big hurt later on.”

In addition to meeting warranty requirements, there are other benefits to buying a service plan up front. For instance, you can avoid future price increases in parts and lubricants.

“If you buy a new car and intend to keep it for five years, you can buy a scheduled maintenance plan and lock in service at today’s prices for parts and labour. This protects you from fluctuations in the cost of oil and raw materials that could drive up the price of components,” explains Cueter.

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CHAPTER 5Technology 0n wheelsGone are the days when your car was just a mechanical contraption with four wheels that got you from point A to B. These days, it is more like a supercomputer on wheels, with possibly more than 100 mini computer systems controlling everything from the door locks and brakes to


the starter and ignition system.Cars are becoming more and more high-tech as automakers work towards making safer vehicles that are also easier and more enjoyable to drive. There is loads of car technology out there (some technology is more useful than the others!). Here are some of the most useful and fun features that you should consider having in your car.

Bye Bye to parallel parkinG woesFor the fifth time, Jack is trying to reverse his car into that ever-so-tricky parallel parking bay. Will I ever get this right, he asks himself. In the meantime, a long queue of cars has lined up behind him. Some of the drivers are amused at the Jack parallel parking sideshow; others are getting dangerously hot

under the collar because they’re being delayed. As the stress builds up, Jack starts to think how nice it would be if someone could park the car for him – or better still, if the car could just park itself.

The thing is – it can! If it has an Active Park Assist feature, that is. To activate the system, just press a centre console button which activates ultrasonic sensors that measure and identify a feasible parking space. It then calculates the optimal steering angle and quickly steers the vehicle into the parking spot for you – hands free. The driver must maintain control of the vehicle by shifting the transmission and operating the accelerator and brake pedals. Yippee, hassle-free parking. Plus you never ever need be embarrassed at your parallel parking skills again!

DeFyinG GravityRolling backwards on an incline can be scary. Ask Jack. The last time he attempted to pull off on an incline, the car rolled back and he ended up rearranging the front bumper of the car behind him (that car’s owner wasn’t particularly pleased with the new arrangement).

If you don’t want to play bumper cars with the vehicle behind, your best bet is to pick a car with a Hill Launch Assist feature. It prevents your car from rolling back for up to three seconds as your foot travels from the brake to the accelerator pedal.

As soon as sufficient engine torque is available, the feature releases the brakes

without the risk of stalling or rolling backwards. This also eliminates the need to engage the handbrake to hold the car momentarily, leading to a smooth and simple start when pulling away on a hill or in one of those multi-storey car parks. It transforms even the most junior of drivers into geniuses.

Music on wheelsCDs … what are they? Cassette tapes … never heard of them! You can now test the acoustics in your car and turn it into your personal rock concert by playing music from your MP3 player, USB stick or phone. You don’t even have to worry about battery power on long journeys – the system charges your device as you play it.

Over 100The number of mini computers in the average car


Car of the futureWhat do you think cars will look like in the next 10 to 20 years? That was the question we posed to J Mays, group vice president of design and chief creative officer, Ford Motor Company. Here’s what the designer behind Ford’s personality-driven Start concept car has to say…

To activate the microphone that detects your voice command, Jill simply presses a button next to the steering wheel and speaks her command. If she wants to access her climate control system, for instance, she just says “Climate”. Or, for the phone, she says “Phone” and so on. The system allows Jill to receive and make phone calls, and also access her mobile’s phone book and calling history… all hands free.

at one with your carThe latest buzzwords in car technology are “seamless integration”, meaning that automakers are finding ways to help you connect with your car so that you won’t have to leave your communications,

digital information or favourite music behind while on the road.

For example, Ford has built on its award-winning SYNC device connectivity system to deliver an intuitive connected driver experience called MyFord. It replaces many of the traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges. With more

"From an exterior standpoint, it’s going to be more of the same. Exterior design is always going to be the thing that characterises first and foremost, what the car should represent in the customer’s mind. But over the last 10 years, interior design has become more and more important because that’s where people spend all of their driving time."

look Ma, no hanDsOne of the funkiest yet affordable features of new cars today is Bluetooth® with Voice Control. This allows you to operate your mobile, climate control and audio system using voice-activated commands – all wirelessly. Practically, this leaves you free to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. This feature helps Jack to drive safely, even as he chats with his buddies.Bluetooth® is a trademark of Bluetooth SIG Inc., and is used under licence.


voice commands, clear, crisp LCD screens that can be customised and five-way buttons such as those on cell phones and MP3 players, drivers can choose which information is front and centre through a button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.

Developed with Microsoft, Ford SYNC is an advanced software platform that allows motorists such as Jack and Jill the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media players and Bluetooth®-enabled mobile phones into their vehicle and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel’s radio controls. In the U.S., it can even deliver personalised traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn directions and

up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather – without the need for a built-in navigation system.

The new thing that is probably going to dominate car design in the next 10 years is going to be the human-machine interface, where all the navigation takes place inside the car. The human-machine interface will become increasingly sophisticated with voice activation and multi touch-screen technology. Cars are becoming more like rolling computers and that’s going to transform the way people drive. It’s also going to transform the way we design automobiles.


CHAPTER 6: Safety In Your CarSo here’s the thing, guys and gals: when you buy a new (or pre-loved) set of wheels, the single-most important thing is not how good the car looks or sounds. Yes, a hot colour and flash interior are crucial. And what’s beneath the hood is also important. But never forget: it’s the safety features that could mean the difference between life and death.

Today’s cars come with a bunch of sci-fi stuff, with all sorts of weird acronyms. And so we’re often clueless as to what they mean. ABS, EBD and ESP...? Go figure…

But these weird and wonderful contraptions all play a vital role, as Jamie McCullough, cross carline feature and

technology manager, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa, points out: “Beyond the vehicle’s structure and design, there are an increasing number of safety features available which at either an individual or combined level of offering serve in contributing towards enhancing a vehicle’s ‘accident avoidance’ and/or


Zen and the art of crash testingNew cars must pass certain safety tests before being sold. Most have a Euro NCAP safety rating (European New Car Assessment Rating). Or, if it’s Australian, an ANCAP (Australian New Car Assessment Program) rating. For cars tested before 2009, Euro NCAP has three ratings: adult protec-tion, child occupant and pedestrian protection. These ratings are achieved from three impact tests: frontal, side

and pole test. Separate pedestrian tests will score the pedestrian rating. Euro NCAP also rewards cars with intelligent seatbelt reminders.Since 2009, Euro NCAP has released only one overall star rating for each car, with a maximum of five stars. This comprises the scores in adult, child and pedestrian protection, and safety assist. The tests are identical to pre-2009 ones, with the addition of a test

for whiplash neck injury protection in rear impact. Also, Euro NCAP rewards not only seatbelt reminders, but also speed limiters and standard fitment of ESC. So how do they do crash tests? The frontal impact test takes place at 64 km/h, and readings taken from the test dummies assess the protection given to adult front occupants. Con-tact between the occupant and intruding parts of the passenger com-partment is the main cause of seri-

ous/fatal injuries for buckled-in adult occupants. The 64 km/h test speed represents a car-to-car collision with each car doing about 55 km/h.Steering wheel-mounted airbags are quite critical, and Euro NCAP encour-ages seatbelt pretensioners, load lim-iters and dual stage airbags.So essentially, the more stars out of five your car has, the better. Drive a superstar and your chances of surviv-ing the roads are better.

‘occupant protection’ performance. Ford is a safety leader; you can see it in our innovations that help customers avoid crashes or protect them if one is unavoidable.”

And so, it’s important to buy a car that has as many of these features as possible… not that all young drivers remember to prioritise. Picture Jack in the showroom, or used car lot, inspect-ing the gleaming array of fine machin-ery. And there’s the salesman trying to sell him that cool hotrod, which is chromed to the hilt and emits a fire-breathing roar when you step on the gas.

Wise Jill, who’s often sharper than Jack’s buddies realise, asks how safe it is.

“Well, it’s got seatbelts,” the salesman announces proudly. That is a good thing: according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelts reduce the risk of fatality and serious injury by 50 percent when used by drivers and front-seat passengers. “Seat belts are your first line of defence against injuries or death,” declares David L. Strickland, administrator, NHTSA.

Percentage by which fatalities

and serious injuries can be reduced

thanks to seatbelt usage.

50


relief, “Honest” Bob (as he’s known) lists the car’s safety features.

There’s ABS, he says, or an anti-lock braking system. This helps prevent the wheels from locking during sudden braking, like when you slam on anchors when a driver in front of you stops unexpectedly. By allowing the car to slow in a more controlled manner, ABS helps maintain steering control. Some ABS systems include brake assist, which senses emergency braking by detecting the speed or force at which you press the brake, boosting the power as needed. Under certain conditions, brake assist can reach the braking force needed to activate the ABS faster, and help reduce stopping distance by eliminating the delay caused by not braking hard/soon enough.

He says the car also has ESP, or an Electronic Stability Programme, which means drivers are better able to control the car in intense steering manoeuvres.

• Seat belts: With all of the technological advances, seat belts are still the top life-sav-ing device in cars today

• Anti-lock braking system (ABS): it pre-vents the wheels from locking during braking; you have far more control over your vehicle as a result

• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP): this is a very clever electronic system that steps in if your vehicle is about to skid out of control; it takes over by selectively applying the brakes and helps prevent things from going pear-shaped

• Crumple zones: this is a structural feature of your car; it compresses during an accident, thereby absorbing the energy and minimising the impact of the accident on people sitting in the car

• Airbags: these are, quite literally, bags of air that inflate in milli-seconds if you have an accident; they help prevent you from knock-ing your head on the dash, for instance

• A well trained driver: you can never ever have too much training; it needs to be cou-pled with the right attitude out on the road

Strapped for cash? Here are the most important safety features in any car:

Venture out onto the road and you’re taking your life into your own hands: we all know that. But there are high-risk periods, when you really should be extra careful. According to the Automobile Association of South Africa, this is when accidents are statistically the most likely to occur:

• Between dusk and dawn• During morning and evening peak traffic• At “closing time” for bars and clubs• Late in the week and at weekends when

the use of alcohol increases• On public holidays and weekends when

many motorists are paying more attention to sightseeing than to proper driving

Times to take extra care

But, of course, seatbelts are a given today. The salesman shouldn’t be so proud. It’s actually an old car: truth be told, it’s a bone-rattler of note.

Jill shakes her head. Uh-uh. She prods Jack in the ribs, and points to a newer, bigger, but infinitely less flashy vehicle. How about that one, she asks. And with


ESP helps prevent a car from spinning out by constantly monitoring and applying braking force to one or more wheels as needed.

It has crumple zones. This means that, in the event of an accident, the car’s body parts are designed to absorb the energy from a crash’s impact. As a result, the passenger compartment is not as badly damaged, which means the driver and passengers are less likely to be injured.

It also boasts a high amount of ultra high strength boron steel in its door intrusion beams, which helps protect occupants in side-impact collisions. Boron steel is very good news for road safety – because it delivers a rigid, yet lightweight passenger cell, providing greater side and frontal impact protection. “I read an article about this steel,” Jill tells Jack proudly. “The use of these high-strength steels has helped Ford perform extremely well in crash tests, earning its vehicles more U.S. government five-star safety ratings than any other brand!”

There’s also a host of airbags that help protect you in the event of an accident. Depending on the impact speed and the stiffness of the object struck, front airbags inflate to help reduce the risk of occupants hitting the dashboard, steering wheel and windshield. Side airbags reduce the risk of you hitting the door or objects crashing through it. Some cars have head airbags, which deploy in side impacts, while some deploy during rollovers. Both provide additional protection to help reduce head injuries.

Then there’s AWD, or all-wheel-drive, which distributes power to both the front and rear wheels to maximise traction. This means that you’re less likely to go barrelling off the road.

Jack and Jill decide it’s a no-brainer. The cool hotrod is rejected in favour of the far more sensible vehicle. Honest Bob has done it again: Jack and Jill are sold. So’s the safety conscious car!


CHAPTER 7:

Safety on the road

Everyone thinks it won’t happen to them. Especially young drivers – they believe that they’re invincible. But the reality is that anyone can have an accident while driving – even professional racing drivers! Even if it’s not your fault, you can still lose life or limb because of some other road user’s silly mistakes.

Can you avoid accidents? Sure – not just by piloting a safer car, but by being aware of potential pitfalls, and exercising more caution.

Speed killSAs for Jill, she drives way too fast for her own good. This is, of course, quite common behaviour for someone like Jill. As the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents in England points out: “Young drivers are more likely to see speed as exciting. They are particularly prone to approaching bends too fast and to dangerous overtaking.”

Jill, of course, thinks this is all nonsense. Hey, her hot hatchback was designed for speed, so why not?

Besides, she knows what she’s doing… or so she believes.

Actually, she doesn’t. Well, not all the time, anyway, as Jack regularly points out. For starters, this too cool for school young lady has a bad habit of going flat out and then standing on the brakes as she’s cornering. Generally speaking, she drives way too fast (even keeping within the speed limit can be unsafe, for example on wet or icy roads or on narrow, winding rural roads).

She tailgates trucks too… and other cars. So she has to keep crossing into the oncoming lane to see what’s ahead and if it’s safe to overtake. Jill has had many close calls, but hasn’t learned.


ConSider the ConditionSBad weather? Well that’s another story. When the roads are wet, it’s not rocket science that the tar is slippery and you need to slow reduce speed. Not Jill. She goes full steam ahead, with absolutely no thought to the consequences. The other day in a seriously crummy thunderstorm, she floored the accelerator even though visibility was nil and driving conditions were so scary that there were hardly any another vehicles on the road. She miscalculated her abilities, and spun four times before stopping – with a resounding crunch – against a street pole. That cost her a fortune in repair bills. She’s lucky she’s alive.

When is it safe to overtake?The experts say:• When travelling along a single lane road behind another

vehicle, ask yourself if you intend to overtake it• If not, leave a gap ahead that’s long enough to allow

overtaking by other cars. This allows other road users to overtake you, slot safely into the gap you’ve left, and await an opportunity to overtake the next vehicle

• Vehicles travelling close together create a very long vehi-cle that’s more difficult to overtake, increasing the risk of an accident

• Even if no one’s behind you, leaving a large gap increases your line of sight and safety margin

here are some pointers when you hit the road (someone pass these on to Jill, please):

• The U.S. Transportation Department says more than 450,000 crashes occur annually in adverse weather conditions or on slick roads. To help avoid a crash, keep your tyres inflated to the right pressure and make sure they have enough tread

• Turn on your lights in bad weather or low light

• Avoid puddles: they could be camouflaging potholes

• If you start aquaplaning (also known as “hydroplaning”, this happens when there is water between the tyres of the vehicle and road surface, leading to the loss of traction), don’t brake or steer. Stop accelerating until you feel your tyres make contact with the road

• If you’re driving in fog, switch on your low-beam headlights, slow down before you reach a patch of fog, and turn on your defroster and windshield wipers

• Increase your following distance in bad weather, such as monsoons

• Dry your feet before getting into the car; wet feet can easily slip off the pedals

More than 450,000

The number of crashes that occur annually in adverse weather conditions or on slick roads.


Of course, there are several basic rules that should be second nature to girls like Jill and guys like Jack. Just like our advice in good or bad weather conditions, always stay three cars’ lengths from the car in front of you. This means that, if

you’re hit from behind, there’s time and space to steer away from the vehicle in front. Always check your blind spots before changing lanes. A momentary peek can be all you need to avoid an accident.

deFenCe iS the FirSt line

oF attaCkAlways be a “defensive” driver when it

comes to children, cyclists, and aggres-

sive drivers: expect the unexpected. Plan

a “defence” to protect yourself and them

against the dangers they present.

It is vitally important for every single

young driver (and some older ones too!)

to invest in an advanced driver training

programme. Ford’s globally successful

Driving Skills for Life programme is a

great option; it mixes classroom and

practical training to help increase the

awareness of safe driving techniques.

And it won’t only teach you to be a safe

driver; it will also help you improve fuel

efficiency (think big time advantages

to your wallet) and lower your CO2

emissions. Finally, one word for guys and girls

who love to party and then drive: no.

Your reactions are slower, and the stats

show far too many fatalities resulting

from drunk driving to convince us

otherwise. Same goes for speeding. It

kills. Don’t do it. It’s as simple as that.

avoid holiday blueS

Going on holiday? When planning a long

trip, be aware of driver fatigue. Turning

up the sound system or opening the

demon driverSAccording to the Automobile Association of South Africa, there are also some vehicles that you should be especially wary of while out on the road.

• Any vehicle in which the driver’s range of vision is limited – such as a fully laden truck with no side mirrors

• A vehicle that “wanders” about the road – it could be a faulty steering or suspension, or the driver may be drunk or sleepy

• Any vehicle that is dirty, rusty, missing body parts or with a badly smoking exhaust – it is probably in poor overall mechanical condition

• A truck with a badly packed or unsecured load, or a car with a bulky load on the roof rack – the load, or part of it, may come adrift

• A car containing active children and pets – the driver may not be concentrating on the road

• A car with stickers on the windows, piles of luggage, or a large number of passengers – the driver’s vision is probably obscured

• A vehicle with a driver who does not appear to be giving his full attention to the road

Remember, if you cannot see the mirrors of the vehicle in front of you, that driver can’t see you!


rubber alertNever under-estimate the importance of your tyres: they are what keep you stuck to the road.Always check the air pressure when the tyres are cold – never during or immediately after a journey. Check every two weeks and adjust when necessary. The right pressures prevent unnecessary wear, minimise excess fuel consumption and help avoid potentially dangerous blow-outs.

window won’t work. Rather, get plenty of shut-eye. If you feel drowsy, pull over for a nap, some fresh air or physical activity (walk around the car several times). Everyone knows that booze is a complete no-no and that it’s to be avoided if you plan to spend time behind the wheel. But bear in mind the fact that over-the-counter drugs such as allergy pills and muscle relaxants could also make you dozy.

Remember:• Do regular visual checks

• Lumps/bumps could mean internal damage: remove and have an expert check it

• Tyres deteriorate with age. If cracked, the rubber could be perished. Remove and get expert advice

• Keep your spare pumped and primed for action. Check its pressure regularly, especially before long journeys

The Institute of Advanced Motorists in the United Kingdom also offers some other handy practical tips:

• Pack belongings securely – loose objects can be distracting and, if the driver needs to brake sharply, unsecured items could fly forward and hit those sitting in front

• Where possible pack heavy items in the boot• Don’t load your car until it’s ready to burst;

you will almost certainly obscure visibility. You need to have a clear view of the road all the time

• The driving seat should be adjusted to a safe upright position and the heating/air-condition-ing set to a cool – not cold – temperature

• Keep an eye on the fuel level to make sure you don’t run dry. Running out of fuel on a motor-way puts your safety at risk, and it will be very expensive to call out for help to top you up

• Check tyre pressures before setting off. Tyres on a full and heavy car usually require higher pressure

• Driving on unfamiliar roads can be unnerving. Satellite navigation systems can help and ena-ble the driver to re-route quickly and relatively easily, but they can be expensive. It’s always best to plan the journey before hitting the road, using a map or online journey planner


Cheap iS not alwayS beSt!It’s sometimes tempting to buy counterfeit or non-factory parts, because the perception exists that they’re cheap. And that’s sometimes true – they may be cheaper than “the genuine thing”. But, according to scientific studies (we’re not just talking marketing puffery here), you could end up endangering your life by fitting one of these substandard components to your car.

Ford Motor Company recently conducted a series of low-speed crash tests, and these revealed that aftermarket copy structural parts absorb less crash energy than genuine Ford structural parts and can also result in unintended airbag deployments. These fake parts are also not properly crash tested by the seller of the parts – so, in the event of an accident, you don’t know if they’re actually going to work properly.

“Not all replacement vehicle parts are created equal when it comes to safety,” warns Paul Massie, Ford powertrain and collision product marketing manager. “All drivers should be aware that copy parts can compromise the safety of their vehicles.”

Copy aftermarket parts can end up costing you big bucks if they result in engine failure, or a mechanical breakdown.

But what is the actual difference between a genuine part and a counterfeit or non-factory component? Unless you’re an expert in this field, it’s hard to tell them apart – because, to the naked eye, they sometimes look fairly similar. But, as Jill discovered when she dated a drop-dead gorgeous man who turned out to be a complete disappointment, looks can be deceiving. “Aftermarket copy parts are often constructed with

Five fast life-saving tips• Take it easy at night. Young drivers have a high proportion of their

crashes at night• Don’t drink and drive. And don’t accept a lift from someone who

has been drinking or might have taken drugs. Remember, some over-the-counter medicines can also cause drowsiness

• Always use a hands free kit when talking on the phone while driv-ing. And don’t text or surf the net. U.S. government research shows the most dangerous distractions are those that take your eyes off the road and hands from the wheel for an extended period of time

• Loud music, eating, drinking and smoking can distract you while you’re driving

• Buckle up. Always. And get your passengers to do the same

50%

substandard materials in order to be marketed as a cheaper alternative to authorised replacement parts,” explains Massie.

Sadly, counterfeit parts are rampant in the aftermarket industry… so how do you avoid using them inadvertently? “Always ask for and insist on the installation of original equipment factory parts. Your best chance to get ‘genuine’ factory parts is to have the vehicle serviced at a factory dealer,” suggests Joseph Cueter, operations manager for Ford’s Customer Service Division, Asia Pacific and Africa.

Whatever you do, don’t take a chance… the single most important thing is remaining safe on the road.

5The percentage by which road fatalities are expected to rise in low and middle income countries by 2020 according to the International Road Assessment Programme.


CHAPTER 8: Avoid fuel funk


We have good and bad news. The good news is that it

is actually possible to save as you drive and still have

money left for a holiday at the end of the year. The bad

news is you – and your driving habits. If you would only

tweak those habits, you’re talking about real dollar

savings, not just cents.

glide until it’s green and accelerate moderately again, he would save petrol – and brake pads.

2. Slow and Steady winS the raceTaking your speed down to 90 km/h from 105 km/h can improve your fuel consumption by 10 to 15 percent, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Drive at low engine speeds, ideally at 1,500 to 2,500 rpm to maximise fuel economy. Why waste all that fuel – and risk your safety and getting a ticket – just to get there five minutes faster?

3. USe natUral air conditioninGThe verdict’s still out on this one as some studies have found that turning the air conditioning off may reduce fuel

consumption only minimally.

Don’t sweat it, but if it’s cool enough, switch off the air conditioning, and possibly save yet another 10 percent on fuel.

Given the price of fuel these days, there are tips galore on how to drive more fuel-efficiently. But which ones really work and how much can you save? Jamie McCullough, cross carline feature and technology manager, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa, reveals the top ten winners.

1. watch the aGGreSSionSudden acceleration and hard braking can increase fuel consumption by as much as 40 percent while toxic emissions can be more than five times higher. Studies have also shown that changing lanes doesn’t result in significantly reduced travel times, so stick to your lane, and decrease fuel consumption – and your blood pressure.

Jack loves to accelerate right up to the red light – but is this really necessary? Why not ease off the accelerator from a distance? Were Jack to use the car’s momentum to


Slow down Jack! Sudden acceleration and

hard braking increase fuel consumption by 40 percent!

4. inFlate yoUr tyreSUnder-inflated tyres increase resistance and make it more difficult for the engine to move the car along the road. These under-nourished tyres can chow more fuel by up to six percent. Check your owner’s manual for optimal “pounds per square inch” or PSI ratings. The U.S. Department of Energy says that for every one PSI you are under the optimal rate, you take 0.4 percent off your fuel economy.

5. think liGhtYou don’t need to store all 300 pairs of your shoes in the boot! Clear out all the magazines, shoes, golf clubs and clothes that are in your car and you’re off to a slimmer fuel bill. Remember, an extra 48 kg of weight can add two percent to your

fuel consumption. As greenyour.com notes: “Lightening your car’s load may take a chunk out of your day, but you’ll be saving money – and the environment – in the long run.” So adopt a minimalistic approach and get rid of all the junk and clutter. Remember: a light car equates to a happy, less thirsty car.

6. oxyGen neededCars do not run on just fuel. They need oxygen too. If air flow is restricted by a clogged air filter (and your engine cannot breath as a result), the car’s performance and fuel economy will suffer. It’s been estimated that you can save eight percent each time you fill up your tank by replacing a bad air filter.

7. Get tUned inAn improperly tuned engine hurts fuel consumption by an average of 4.1 percent, according to U.S. government studies. A properly working oxygen sensor is most important to fuel economy and can increase or decrease your efficiency by as much as 40 percent.

8. reGUlar’S GoodUnless your vehicle is specifically tailored to take advantage of the higher octane level in the premium fuel, you’re potentially wasting money. Go by what is recommended in your owner’s manual. At current prices, you might save up to USD 150 a year by opting for unleaded instead of premium.

40%Your fuel bill can rise by this percentage if your car doesn’t have a properly working oxygen sensor.

Save money by using the type of fuel recommended in your owner’s manual. The difference between regular and premi-um, other than the price, is the octane rating. Now, the rat-ing doesn’t indicate how much power the fuel delivers. But a higher octane rating means the fuel is less likely to cause your engine to knock.

Knock, or detonation, happens when part of the fuel-air mixture in one or more of your car’s cylinders ignites sponta-neously due to compression, independent of the combus-tion initiated by the spark plug. Instead of a controlled burn, you get the equivalent of an explosion – certainly not good for your engine. To avoid this, high-octane gas is formulated to burn slower than regular.

Regular or premium?


So, if you want to cut your fuel bill, look out for these features:

Smart gearboxes We all know that a manual gearbox is generally (but not always) less thirsty than an automatic transmission. But what if there’s a way of mating the best of both worlds? Ford’s PowerShift technology essentially does that with its six-speed

double-clutch gearbox and cuts fuel consumption by as much as nine percent.

Turbochargers Turbocharging technologies have allowed automakers to come up with smaller engines that can deliver the power of a larger engine. For example Ford’s EcoBoost engines combine direct fuel injection technology and turbocharging to deliver up

There are lots of ways that cars are becoming more economical.

I don’t need to carry that much. Save energy!

9. traininG payS dividendSStill not sure how to change your driving habits? Then what about enrolling in Ford’s Driving Skills for Life programme? The training combines classroom teaching and practical driving sessions to help you be a safer and more eco-friendly driver.

10. BUy a Greener carAnd, if after all that, you’re still unwilling or unable to change your driving habits, there is still one more option left – buy a fuel-efficient car. This may or may not be a hybrid; there are now lots of regular cars on our roads that boast terrific fuel economy.

Saving money at the pump is not rocket science; it just takes making small changes to the way you drive. Look at all the tips, pick one, and go save the world.

to 20 percent fuel improvement and 15 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

Green tyresTyre manufacturers are developing low rolling resistance tyres – which means a lower fuel bill at the end of the day. Put simply, with these tyres, there is less friction. In other words, they roll down the road more easily. This is a very big deal; energy is wasted all the time thanks to a build-up of heat between tyres and the road.

Improved powertrains Globally, Ford is making an unprecedented investment in new engine and transmission components – all because it

seeks to improve economy. By 2015, for instance, it plans to increase car and truck fuel economy by more than 35 percent thanks to powertrain advancements.

Small is big Car manufacturers the world over are downsizing – and Ford is no exception. “We’re changing from a company focused mainly on trucks and SUVs to a company with a balanced product line-up that includes even more high-quality, fuel-efficient small cars, hybrids and all-electric vehicles,” says Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas. “As customers move to more fuel-efficient vehicles, we’ll be there with more of the products they really want.”


CHAPTER 9: Tech talk

The first is this: you simply must have your car serviced regularly – much like your scheduled dental appointment; it’s silly to allow your car to miss a service. Your car is a big investment and it makes sense to treat it with tender loving care. So check the owner’s manual, which will specify servicing intervals – and then stick to them. Remember, it’s also much cheaper in the long run to maintain your car properly rather than to wait for it to break, and then fix it.

While your car is under warranty, you must take it to an authorised dealer. Taking it elsewhere is just plain nuts, because then your warranty will be

invalidated. Which you don’t want. It’s also a good idea to go to an authorised dealer because they have all the necessary equipment to work on your car.

Jill learnt this the hard way: she spotted a bargain basement deal on a service – what a nightmare that turned out to be. Yes, the service cost next to nothing – but she ended up having endless hassles with her car because the workmanship was substandard.

In days gone by, cars were very simple and no complex equipment was needed. That couldn’t be further from the truth today. For example, your car’s engine is quite likely controlled by an Electronic

You don’t need to be a mechanic or a mechanical engineer in order to keep your hot hatch or snazzy sedan in tip-top running condition. But you do need to understand a couple of technical basics…


If you run an engine without oil, it can seize – which, in

non-technical terms, means it literally curls up and dies!

Control Unit (or ECU) and, if the engine is not running optimally, the dealer may need to hook up sophisticated diagnos-tics equipment and run specialised software in order to fix the problem.

It makes sense to service via an authorised dealer as this will boost the value of your car when the time comes to sell. It is common knowledge that the resale value of your car can be improved if you have it serviced at an authorised dealer and your service book is stamped. Remember to check that the dealer has not forgotten to stamp your book!

Also, when you do business with an authorised dealer, you know that certain standards are maintained. Notes Joseph Cueter, operations manager for Ford’s Customer Service Division, Asia Pacific and Africa: “Ford factory trained technicians know your Ford vehicle best and can advise you on how to protect and care for your car with regularly scheduled maintenance.”

But you cannot relinquish all responsibility to the dealer. You need to

take charge of some basic bits and pieces too: there are some rudimentary duties that you can perform to ensure that your car operates efficiently.

EnGinEPopping open the bonnet or hood will often tell you… exactly nothing! That’s because, with many modern cars, the engine is obscured by plastic covers which prevent you from tampering with technical components.


But there

are some things you

should check, and the two most important items are oil and water levels. Your car’s engine simply cannot survive without these two liquids. It’s also a good idea to check the level of windscreen washer fluid as well as the brake and power steering fluid. Don’t know where to find these? All is revealed in your owner’s manual. If you read the manual and you’re still clueless as to their location, stick your pride in your pocket and pop over to the dealer, who will explain all.

But firstly the all-important oil. The National Roads and Motorists’

Association (NRMA) in Australia recommends that you check the oil level while your car is parked on a level surface. Start the engine, let it run for a short while, and then turn it off. While your engine’s still warm, remove the dipstick, and wipe it clean with a lint-free rag. The dipstick is normally pretty easy to find. It’s that long, flexible rod normally near the front of the engine compartment – and it often has an orange hoop at the top. Be careful to reinsert the dipstick fully, otherwise you’ll get a false reading.

Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. If it’s reading low, top up your oil using the correct grade as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Very important: if no oil shows on the dipstick, do NOT run your

engine! If you run an engine without oil, it can seize – which, in non-technical terms, means it literally curls up and dies!

Check the radiator coolant level in the plastic reservoir – it should be between the high and low marks. You should never ever check your coolant level when the radiator is hot (this could lead to nasty burns). This is one of the most common vehicle-related accidents; it happens around the world almost on a daily basis, simply because car owners are unaware of the associated dangers. It is vitally important that you heed this advice.

TyrEsDon’t forget those bits of black rubber! The tyres on your car are safety critical items. So it’s really important to keep them in peak condition.

This means sticking to the correct tyre pressures and, once again, this will be stipulated in the owner’s manual and/or on the inside of the door. Look for uneven tyre wear and nails in the tread. Inspect the sidewall for cuts and bubbles.

In the tyre tread you will find places where there is a small rubber bridge – this is called a tyre tread indicator. When this segment of rubber is the same depth as the tread you should

• You should change your car’s oil every three months.Thisisn’tnecessary.Syntheticoilsdon’tbreakdownsorapidly.Checkyourowner’smanualandbeguidedbyitsrecommendations

• You need to let your vehicle engine warm up in cold weather.Nottrue.Theenginewarmsupwhileyoudrive.Runningyourcaranylongerbeforehandisjustawasteoffuel

• Premium fuel is a treat for your car. Wrong!Unlessyourvehicleisspecificallytailoredtotakeadvantageofthehigheroctanelevelinthefuel,you’rewastingyourmoney.Usewhatisrecommendedinyourowner’smanual

• The number listed on the sidewall of your tyre is the recommended tyre pressure.False!Inmostcases,thisisactuallythemaxi-mumpressureallowedforthattyre.Therec-ommendedpressureisusuallylistedontheinsidedoorpanel–checkyourowner’smanualtobesure

• Buy fuel in the morning and you’ll save money. Whensomeonetellsyoutofillupinthemorningwhenfueliscoolestandmostdense(becausefuelissoldbyvolume),justtellthemthey’retalkingnonsense.Thebeliefwasyouwouldgetmorefuelforyourbuck.Butfuelishousedinunderground,non-metallictanksandtheyaren’tthatsensitivetosunlight

Some age-old snippets of advice are nothing more than maintenance myths. Here are five common fallacies:5

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pedal spongy (this means the brake pedal is not solid when depressed, but bounces softly)? Does the car tend to pull to one side under braking? Can you hear an unusual grinding sound?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, go to the dealer or an approved brake fitment centre. And ask them to sort it out now!

shock absorbErsThese nifty devices (which you cannot see unless you look under the wheel arch) are part of the suspension. They work in conjunction with the wheel spring. They are responsible for the road holding and handling characteristics of your car so they’re also pretty important to your car’s (and your!) wellbeing.

You cannot replace or repair the shocks yourself; this must be done by the dealer. But you can certainly check if they’re functioning optimally. The best way of doing this is by getting a strong person to push down independently on each corner of the car and then suddenly release the downward pressure. The car should lift to its normal ride height position at a uniform rate – if it bobs up and down a few times, chances are good that your shocks are faulty.

replace the tyre. Legal requirements differ from country to country but, according to the Automobile Association (AA) in the U.K., most countries require a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm. It recommends a minimum of 2 mm for road safety reasons. It is extremely important to have enough tread on your tyres: without enough tread, tyres cannot do their jobs.

Remember to always check the infla-tion of your spare tyre. We recommend that you keep an emergency tyre sealant – it’s often referred to as a “tyre bomb” canister – in your boot. This handy tyre sealant inflator re-inflates a flat tyre in a minute or two. It cannot be used for a sidewall puncture (this is a puncture in the side of the tyre).

If your tyres show uneven wear pat-terns, get the wheel alignment checked.

LiGhTsCheck that all your lights work properly. Get a friend to stand outside your car and help you check your park lights, high and low beams, indicators, brake lights and fog lights. Unless you have some mechanical ability, do not attempt to replace faulty globes or bulbs (it’s a tricky job; you could end up damaging the expensive plastic clips that form part of the lights, for instance).

WindscrEEn and WipEr bLadEsIf your windscreen is chipped – do not leave it. It’s very important that you have maximum visibility on the road.

Clean the wiper blades with a rag dipped in household detergent regularly. It’s not vitally important to use fancy windshield washer fluid – a few drops of dishwasher detergent mixed with water will do the job perfectly. If, in wet weather, your wiper blades leave lines and do not clean the windscreen properly, this means it’s time to change them. These are readily available from your local spares shop. They will most probably even help you fit them – it’s a five-minute job. So you don’t need to go to the dealer and pay for this service.

brakEsThe brakes are seriously important components! That’s because they can keep you from becoming another road statistic! So, if you suspect you may have a problem with your brakes, attend to this immediately.

There are many things that impact on good braking, and firstly you need to understand what is wrong. Is the brake


CHAPTER 10:

Much like having a best friend, owning a car is a fun experience – generally speaking. Alas, things can go wrong. You and your friend can have an argument. With your car, things can easily be as traumatic: you can break down and end up stranded on the side of the road. You can have an accident. Or your car could be hijacked or get stolen. But follow our trusty survival guide and you stand a good chance of avoiding those motoring nightmares.

Scenario number one: The breakdownWe’ve all heard horror stories about people breaking down and it always happens in the dead of night on a quiet road. In reality, a breakdown isn’t normally that traumatic; there is often a knight in shining armour to lend a helping hand (or, failing that romantic prospect, an auto club). But it’s still a stressful affair – so there are a couple of steps that you can take to prevent this happening in the first place.

The first is keeping your vehicle in tip-top running condition. Your

owner’s manual will stipulate precisely how often your car needs to be serviced. Don’t ignore these guidelines; cars are like relationships – they need attention. You must adhere to those service intervals anyway, because if you fail to do so, your car’s warranty may not cover any subsequent repairs.

Secondly, get to know your car – and especially those pesky lights on the dashboard. If they do light up, you need to know what they stand for. Once again, all this information will be in your owner’s manual. So read it!

SOS


Two of the major causes of breakdowns are fuel (a lack thereof) and a burst tyre. Never ever allow your fuel to run to below a quarter tank. And always ensure that your tyres are in good condition and properly inflated. “Wear and tear are the main culprits behind flat tyres and blowouts. When you fill up with fuel get into the habit of checking your tyre pressure and tread at the same time, and look to see if there is anything, such as a nail or piece of glass, which is sticking in the tread but hasn’t punctured the tyre yet,” Green Flag, a British provider of breakdown cover, advises. Oh and don’t forget to check the spare!

Check the oil and tyre pressures on your car every time you refuel. Wash your car yourself once a month – and, while you’re at it, do a visual check on the general condition of your tyres and lights.

Of course, even if you adhere to these precautions, you could still break down – a

mechanical item on your car could fail. You need to be properly prepared, so consider keeping some essential items in your car, including: • Charger for your mobile telephone • Blanket • Bottle of water • First aid kit • Torch • Map • Matches • Energy bars • Wet wipes • Money (a secret stash of cash in the

boot) • Fire extinguisher • Reflective triangles • Jumper cables • Notebook and pen • Tyre bomb (tyre sealant canister)

Two of the major causes of breakdowns are fuel (a lack thereof) and a burst tyre.

Scenario number Two: The accidenTYou may think you’re the world’s greatest driver (and maybe you are). Despite this, chances are good that you will meet someone “by accident” one day. So, what do you do if this happens?

Specific legislation varies from country to country, but there are a couple of “rules of thumb” that apply the world over. If you do have an accident, your first priority is to check to see if anyone has been hurt. Then, you need to exchange your details with the driver of the other vehicle. “On a practical level being involved in an accident is a traumatic event. It is quite easy to forget your responsibilities and to act out of character,” comments Gary Ronald, public affairs manager, Automobile Association (AA) South Africa. “However it is very important to make sure that as the driver you obtain as much information from the driver of the other vehicle. Typically you would

need the other driver’s name and address, identity number, make of vehicle as well as the vehicle registration number.”

Always keep a notebook and pen in your glove box, in order to record these details. Your mobile telephone is a really handy tool: you can use it to photograph the actual crash site. If you don’t have a camera, a simple sketch plan of the accident could prove to be invaluable – especially if a court case results from the collision.

An important word of advice: while chatting to the other driver, stay calm (shouting or boxing never helps the situation). Always report the accident to police within 24 hours.

The AA suggests that, if your vehicle needs to be towed to a panel beater or body repair shop, you should contact your insurer and be guided by them as to who to call to do the recovery and where to take the vehicle. Always obtain a reference number.


Scenario number Three: The TheFTIt happens every single day somewhere in the world: a car is stolen. It’s a horrible feeling: emerging from the mall only to find our much-loved set of wheels gone. But you can adopt some preventative measures to minimise the chances of your car going missing.

The first tip is the most obvious: lock your car! Incredibly, lots of people still don’t do this… with disastrous consequences! For instance, Princess Beatrice of England had her car stolen after she left the keys in the ignition. Locking your car won’t only minimise the chances of it being stolen; it will also reduce the chance of someone hiding in the back seat when you return.It’s a sad fact of life that, in South Africa, vehicle theft is commonplace.

Bearing this mind, we asked the South African Police Service for some tips to help minimise vehicle theft. The men and women in uniform suggest the following: • Park in well-lit areas • Lock all the doors and make sure the windows are all closed • Fit an alarm and immobiliser if your

car doesn’t already have one • Fit locks to your wheels so they can’t

be stolen • Leave nothing visible in your car • Be aware of your surroundings at all

times • Avoid stopping in remote areas

If you live in a country where vehicle theft is commonplace, a tracking device is a good idea.

Scenario number Four:

The hijackinGEven scarier is the prospect of vehicle

hijacking, because this can involve

personal risk. Once again, we turned to

the South African boys and girls in

uniform for advice, and this is what

they recommend: • Vary the route you travel to work and

back, if this is possible

• If strangers are loitering near or at

your driveway, drive past and alert

your security company or police

• Car hijackers or extortionists may

stage a minor accident to entrap you.

Be aware of this. If your car is

bumped from behind and you think

the situation is suspicious, drive to

the nearest police station for help

• If you are hijacked, cooperate fully. Do

not reach for your purse or valuables.

Leave everything behind if forced

from the car. Your life is more

valuable than your possessions

• Never give strangers a lift

• Become familiar with your route

before you start the trip

• Have your keys ready in your hand as

you approach your car, especially if

they are difficult to find in your

handbag. It’s possible to buy a leash,

which is attached to your handbag

and makes it easy to locate your keys

• Parking lots with parking attendants

or supervision are best

• At traffic lights, always leave enough

space between you and the car in

front of you so you are never boxed in

• As you near home, check around you

– any suspicious cars following you?

• Only turn into your garage or

driveway once the gate/door is open,

to prevent another car driving up

behind and blocking you in


CHAPTER 11: Bling it on

Jill’s not happy. Jack is fixated about customising his new (pre-loved) car. To be honest, apart from the costs, she’s worried he’ll go completely over the top and she’ll have to endure the embarrassment of driving around in a bling-mobile.

He’s been looking at wild and wonderful options, ranging from a mild engine modification and some chroming here and there, to outrageous ideas like spinners on purple ostrich-skin styled wheels to coloured body foils – with 150 colour choices, from gloss and matte finishes to glitter, chrome and metallic. Seeing Jack is pretty much colour-blind, it’s a given, thinks Jill, that the end result will be quite terrifying.

The reason for his insane desire? His buddy’s just come back from a trip to Dubai, where OTT (over-the-top) is the order of the day. Also, Jill’s convinced that once he’s changed the look of the car, despite spending a whole heap of money on it, the resale value will drop.

She’s dug out some ammunition for her argument, quoting Wissam Azhari, founder and owner of the Foil-a-car concept in the Middle East and Europe. He had said the


Top TipDon’t ever accessorise your car in such a way that you impact on road safety. For instance, don’t mess with the tail lights by fitting tail light guards. It is vitally important that your car’s tail lights are visible to fellow road users – otherwise they won’t know when you plan to slam on the anchors. If ever in doubt, go and have a chat with your car dealer.

Don’t ever mess with the electrics of the vehicle

Check that accessories don’t impact on the warranty of your car. Certain modifications could negate the warranty on some vehicles

Chat to your dealer and ask for independent advice before fitting something weird and/or wonderful

Don’t even consider an accessory that impacts on safety

Always consider resale value when accessorising your car

20 to 30The percentage by which the value of your car can decline if you mess with the original paint finishing.

colour foils (which Jack wanted) are a better choice than paint. “The biggest advantage is they can be very easily removed. As most clients change their colour as a fashion statement, this is a good option. With a paint job you will lose on the resale value and to repaint will cost you twice as much. In fact, with high-end super cars, the second you start playing with original paint finishing you lose about 20 to 35 percent of the car.” He added that customising a car might be a nice option for when you sell, but it didn’t always increase the value. And while auto-styling could add value, it often boils down to taste. “If you do something that’s pretty far out, it’s a matter of taste and is worth whatever someone wants to pay for it.”

Incidentally, always remember the laws for customising your car vary from country to country. This even applies to issues such as how dark you can tint your windows.

Being a typical guy, Jack did endless research on what he could do to his car and what other guys who have done it

Fast facts

have to say. In the end, he decided maybe he’d just put a subtle colour foil on the car, fit fat 20-inch rims, chrome some fittings, drop the suspension, slap on a rear spoiler, order a custom built exhaust, and fit a racing steering wheel. “Why stop there?” asked Jill grumpily. “Why not stick TV sets in the headrests and put fur on the dashboard as well…”

Actually, she’d had no idea of the choices available to “pimp your ride”. From chrome beading to boot spoilers to bonnet scoops – even chromed skull cup holders! And tailpipes and mufflers and woofers and sub-woofers and performance dump-valves and goodness knows what else.

So she devised a plan: Jack should sit down, make a list of what he wanted – and another of what he could afford.

After much deliberation, it was agreed he’d save bucks by buying sticker decals and asking a buddy to help him fit a super-sized stereo system and some sub woofers; if she paid half for the new tailpipe (his birthday was coming up), and his brother threw in some cash for (lightly) tinted windows as a birthday gift.

Peace reigned once again in the house of Jack and Jill.


Green, green cars of home

CHAPTER


Caring for the environment is no longer just a hip thing to do – it’s become a necessary duty. While one of the best ways to fulfil our responsibility is to make sure we drive more fuel-efficiently, the easier way out might just be to buy a “green car”.

Now, a green car might evoke images of an ugly battery-operated toy car. But actually, a vehicle is “green” as long as it uses less fossil fuel and produces fewer carbon dioxide emissions than the average car. With innovative technology, conventional petrol or diesel autos, hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, or cars that use biofuels can all carry the “green” label.

So which vehicle is best for you if you want to do your part for the planet? Read on…

Petrol liFts its GameAutomakers have gone the extra mile to make conventional petrol vehicles more fuel-efficient than before. They have made the car body lighter and used technologies such as turbocharging to deliver the same amount of power with fewer cylinders.

the good: Such vehicles are readily available and don’t cost more.the bad: Petrol engines generally emit around 10 per cent more carbon dioxide than diesel.

modern dieselThink diesel, and the first thing that springs to mind might be the sputtering old bus spewing black fumes across town. But many modern diesel engines come with a particulate trap to help prevent emissions of sooty particulates. Diesel engines are also often more economical than petrol engines; that’s why they emit less CO2. And new “common rail” diesel motors consistently top fuel economy rankings.

the good: In some countries, diesel is cheaper than petrol so you save at the pump. the bad: A diesel vehicle is usually more expensive than the petrol version of the same model. They can sometimes be more costly to maintain too.

Flexible FuelFlex-fuel vehicles (FFV) are designed to run on either conventional petrol or petrol mixed with a biofuel, such as bio-ethanol. Hence, an E20 vehicle is able to run on 80 percent petrol and 20 percent ethanol. Ethanol is made from sugarcane, and this alternative

20 %The percentage of ethanol on which an E20 vehicle is able to run.

fuel is considered to be renewable and environmentally friendly.

Since these vehicles look and drive just like cars with petrol engines, you might even be driving one and not know it! While FFVs have been in mass production since the 1980s, the first commercial one was actually the Ford Model T, produced from 1908 through 1927.

the good: Due to tax incentives, the price of the alternative fuel is cheaper than petrol.

the bad: Since ethanol contains less energy per volume than petrol, be prepared for lower fuel-efficiency numbers when topping up with the biofuel.

Petrol-electric hybridsA hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) runs on a combination of a conventional petrol engine and an electric motor powered by batteries. It works on the principle that the electric motor provides the power at low speeds such as urban driving but switches


to petrol for driving at higher speeds. The batteries are recharged while driving. Hybrids also use regenerative braking, where the vehicle’s kinetic energy is converted and put back into the battery, instead of being wasted as heat energy as in conventional brakes.

Many HEVs also reduce idle emissions by shutting down the petrol engine at idle and restarting it when needed. This is known as a Start/Stop system. With all these technologies, hybrids boast impressive fuel-efficiency figures as well as big reductions in CO2 emissions. However, they only really achieve maximum economy benefits in built-up areas where they run primarily on electric rather than petrol.

the good: Running costs can be two-thirds that of equivalent petrol vehicles.the bad: The price tag can be very high.

battery-electric vehiclesBEVs, as they are called, use a battery and electric motor to power the vehicle, so they have no emissions at the point of use. Due to the capacity of the battery, their range is

Top five ways to go green… without breaking the bank

Choose a car that has better-than-average fuel economy

Go for a car that emits less CO2

Pick a car that can run on biofuel

Consider the content. Automakers are increasingly using eco-friendly materials in the interiors

Buy a car that is built by an automaker which is truly committed to the environment

normally limited to less than 100 km between charges, which means they are really suitable only for city-dwellers.

Electric vehicles can be recharged by plugging them into an existing electrical socket. However, they are only truly “green” if they are recharged with electricity from renewable sources such as wind farms or the sun. Moreover, if the batteries are lead

or cadmium-based, there will be a serious pollution problem if they are not properly disposed of at the end of their life.

the good: No tailpipe emissionsthe bad: Limited range and a lack of a public infrastructure for charging can mean you get stranded out on the roads.


Once you have a good idea of which green vehicle is most suitable for you, the other thing to look out for is the automaker’s commitment to the environment. In the same way that you probably won’t buy a pair of shoes because it’s made in some sweat shop using child labour, you wouldn’t want to invest in a vehicle that is built by automakers that don’t care two hoots about the planet.

Here are some questions

to think about as you pick

the automaker:

• What promises has it made to

increase fuel efficiency, lower

emissions and improve operational

sustainability?

• How successful has it been in

keeping to those promises?

• Are its factories “green”?

For example, Ford has been publishing a sustaina-

bility report for the past 11 years. Each annual report

details the progress the company has made in five

key areas: climate change, fuel economy, mobility,

vehicle safety and human rights. It also reflects a

commitment to fulfil promises made in earlier

reports.“Creating a strong business and building a better

world are not conflicting goals – they are essential

ingredients for long-term success,” says Sue

Cischke, Ford Group Vice President, Sustainability,

Environment and Safety Engineering. “Our vision

is to provide sustainable transportation that is

affordable in every sense of the word – socially,

environmentally and economically.”

What is a plug-in hybrid?What do you get when you cross a HEV and a BEV? You get a PHEV, or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Think of it as a conventional hybrid electric vehicle with the ability to recharge its batteries by plugging in to an electric socket. Plug-ins run on the stored energy for the days’ driving and when the charge is used up, they automatically keep running on the fuel in the fuel tank. A person whose daily driving distance is shorter than the car’s electric range would never have to dip into the fuel tank. At the same time, the petrol engine is a safety blanket for those who are anxious over the lack of charging stations on long drives.

Pick a company that caresWhen buying a new car, consider the manufacturer and its approach to the environment. Some compa-nies really do care; others purely focus on profits and turnover.For instance, Ford has long adopted a leading role in this regard. As Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President of Product Development, Ford Motor Company, notes: “Ford is determined to take a leadership position on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and optimising efficiency has been an absolute priority. By making new technologies like our Ford EcoBoost engines and Ford Auto-Start-Stop widely available, we are making a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of our products.”

Top up with algae?All around the world scientists are working on using biomass to produce future biofuels… and Ford’s scientists are eyeing algae in this regard. “Algae have some very desirable characteristics as a potential biofuel feedstock and Ford wants to show its support of any efforts that could lead to a viable, commercial-scale application of this tech-nology,” says Sherry Mueller, research scientist, Ford Motor Company.Ford is very supportive of the increased availability of biofuels and biofuel blends from diverse and sustainable sources. “We recognise the important contribution that biofuels could make toward a more sustainable future and improved energy security,” says Jim Anderson, technical expert, Ford Motor Company.


Some people view buying a car as a minefield

of perils. What if you choose the wrong car?

How do you go about taking care of your

investment? What safety features are

important?Enter First Gear, the single most significant

innovation in the motor industry since the

advent of the seat belt! This authoritative

book, which contains pearls of wisdom from

leading authorities across the globe, aims to

guide the novice (and perhaps not so inexperi-

enced!) car buyer through each and every step

of the process.

First Gear is jam-packed with essential infor-

mation. Aspirant car buyers will be able to pick

up all sorts of invaluable advice from the

world’s foremost motoring experts.

Get tips on:• Choosing a dealer

• Vehicle finance

• Essential safety tips

• Saving money at the fuel pump

• Accessorising a vehicle

• Surviving the perils of the road

• Vehicle maintenance

• Cutting motoring costs

• Vehicle insurance

• Preventing vehicle theft

• Going green

In short, First Gear contains advice on any and

every subject pertaining to buying and owning

a car. So don’t leave home and go buy a car

without it!

THE SINGLE MOST USEFUL TOOL FOR ANY CAR BUYER