40 | JUNE 2021
Motoring
AFFORDABLE TECH UPGRADES FOR YOUR VEHICLE
Installing car and van components can be a difficult task and going to a specialist can often be off-putting due to how expensive they can be . However , there are many products now that can be installed into most vehicles with little to no hassle , that make working from a van a lot easier and more pleasant :
A spokesperson for LeaseVan . co . uk said : “ A lot of people can ’ t afford to buy a brand new vehicle with all the latest technology , but there are a few ways in which you can bring your vehicle up to date with some readily available gadgets .
“ It ’ s important from a cost perspective that you can implement technology into your car from home as this can save a lot of money in comparison to a complex technological upgrade .”
1 . Virtual HUD
By using a holographic screen to display your vehicle ’ s speed , map directions , calls and message notifications , this addition can make your vehicle feel ten years younger . Not only this , but it allows you to remain safe by keeping your eyes on the road and not get distracted by your phone .
2 . Bluetooth key tracker
For those of us that are prone to losing our keys , this is finally an answer to the question : where did you last have them ? There are many products on the market to choose from , most are a small device that you can attach to your set of keys and track them via a bluetooth app . A basic tracker can start from around £ 10 and is great for that extra peace of mind .
3 . Security camera
Most older vehicles- vans in particularhave dated security features that can easily be manipulated by modern technology . Getting an advanced camera system is a sleek and discreet way of covering all angles of your vehicle . Purchasing a plug in device allows for an easier installation . Look for a gadget that boasts dual dashcams , live GPS , trip sharing and even time lapses to get the
most complete system . This bit of tech is ideal for van owners who keep valuables in their vehicle overnight and usually comes at a very modest price point .
4 . Car health monitor
Instead of waiting for the dreaded MOT to swing around every year , getting your hands on a car health monitor helps to identify problems at the first sign . Generally this device plugs into the OBD II port and uses its predictive algorithm whilst driving to measure your car ’ s data so that you ’ re never left with any surprises . You can pick up a well-rounded health monitor device for around £ 50 .
5 . Wifi hotspot
The last place you want your mobile data to be running low is on a long car journey . Having a wifi hotspot plug in your vehicle is a cost-effective way of making sure you ’ re always connected in comparison to the fees network providers charge . You can pick up a 12v Wi-Fi dongle for around £ 40 , all you have to do is insert your SIM card and you ’ re away .
6 . Air purifier
Now not a lot of modern vehicles have this feature as standard , so by purchasing a plug-in air purifier you can give your ride a premium feel without paying a premium price . Most versions of this device start from around £ 20 and slot into your vehicle ’ s 12v charging port . It is a great addition if you have often have passengers , pets or smokers in your vehicle and you want to get rid of unwanted smells and airborne pollutants .
Read online at www . proinstaller . co . uk
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS DRIVERS SHOULD ALWAYS KEEP WITH THEM
Motorists have been urged to always keep five important documents in their vehicles , in case of emergencies :
1 . Breakdown cover
This includes the details of your level of cover , as well as relevant phone numbers .
2 . Insurance documents
Whilst there ’ s no legal requirement to carry any documents in your car , it could save you a lot of hassle if you ’ re stopped by police or need to contact your insurance company . Just make sure they ’ re photocopies rather than the original documents .
3 . User manual
If your vehicle starts playing up and flashing up new warning lights you ’ ve never seen before , having your vehicle logbook to hand will help you identify the issue at hand and how urgent it is .
4 . MOT test certificate
Although your MOT results are now saved on a central database , you will still receive an A4 certificate with the results that may need to be inspected if the police for any reason stop you .
5 . Map
It ’ s not strictly a document per se , but it ’ s a good idea to keep an old-fashioned paper road atlas , which could help you out in case your phone runs out of battery or signal .