Xaria Fahd

Did you know that your car’s value diminishes by 15% annually after the first year? The good news is that you have the power to slow down this depreciation process. In this expert guide, we unveil the secrets to maintaining your car’s resale value. Learn the significance of regular maintenance and the value of documenting your vehicle’s service history. Discover the impact of mileage and how to protect your car’s interior and exterior. Find out how simple choices like avoiding smoking or eating in the car can make a difference and explore the influence of model selection on long-term value. Take charge of your car’s worth today!

Infographic created by Capital Auto Auction

There’s something about classic cars that captures our imagination. Maybe it’s the allure of a bygone era, or the nostalgia of simpler times. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying the timeless elegance of European classics. From sleek sports cars to stately sedans, these vehicles exude a sense of style and sophistication that never goes out of fashion. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply appreciate beauty in motion, European classics are sure to leave a lasting impression. So buckle up and join us on a journey through automotive history, as we explore some of the most stunning examples of timeless elegance on wheels.

History and evolution of European classic cars

European classic cars have a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. In the early years, classic cars were primarily used for racing, as they were built for speed and performance. However, as the popularity of cars grew, so did the demand for more stylish and luxurious vehicles. This led to the emergence of iconic European brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Ferrari, all of which are renowned for their classic cars.

Over the years, classic cars have evolved in both design and technology. In the 1920s, classic cars were characterized by their long hoods, sweeping fenders, and large wheels. By the 1950s, cars had become more streamlined, with lower roofs, curved windshields, and fins on the back. The 1960s saw the emergence of muscle cars, which were built for speed and power. Today, modern classic cars retain the timeless elegance of their predecessors while incorporating the latest technology and safety features. The luxurious nature of the vintage defender is an example of this.

Top European classic car brands

When it comes to European classic cars, there are several brands that stand out for their iconic designs and engineering excellence. Mercedes-Benz is one such brand, with a rich history of producing some of the most elegant and luxurious cars in the world. Their classic models, such as the 300SL Gullwing and the 190SL, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Porsche is another brand that has made a name for itself in the world of classic cars. Founded in 1931, Porsche is known for its sleek and sporty designs, with classic models such as the 356, 911, and 928 remaining popular among collectors. Ferrari is yet another iconic brand that is synonymous with classic cars. Founded in 1947, Ferrari has produced some of the most beautiful and powerful cars ever built, such as the 250 GTO and the Testarossa.

Other notable European classic car brands include Jaguar, Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, and BMW, all of which are known for their unique designs and engineering prowess.

Iconic European classic car models

European classic cars are known for their timeless elegance and striking designs. Some of the most iconic models include the Jaguar E-Type, which was first introduced in 1961 and is widely considered one of the most beautiful cars ever made. The Volkswagen Beetle is another classic car that has stood the test of time, with its distinctive shape and simple yet elegant design.

Other notable European classic car models include the Porsche 911, which is still in production today and has a history dating back to 1963. The Ferrari 250 GTO is another classic car that is highly coveted by collectors, with only 39 ever built. The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is yet another iconic classic car, with its distinctive gullwing doors and elegant design.

European classic car restoration and maintenance

Restoring and maintaining a classic car requires a great deal of skill and expertise. European classic cars, in particular, require special attention to detail to ensure that they retain their original beauty and performance. The restoration process typically involves stripping the car down to its bare metal, repairing any damage, and rebuilding the car to its original specifications.

Maintenance is also crucial to keeping a classic car in top condition. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections are essential to ensuring that the car runs smoothly and safely. It’s also important to use high-quality parts and materials, as well as to keep the car clean and well-maintained to prevent rust and other damage.

Owning a European classic car – pros and cons

Owning a European classic car can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. On the plus side, classic cars are a great investment, with many models appreciating in value over time. They also offer a unique driving experience, with their timeless elegance and classic designs.

However, owning a classic car also requires a great deal of time, effort, and money. Restoring and maintaining a classic car can be expensive, and finding parts and materials can be a challenge. Classic cars also require special care and attention, as they may not have the same safety features as modern cars.

European classic car events and shows

European classic cars are a staple at car shows and events around the world. From the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance to the Goodwood Festival of Speed, there are plenty of opportunities to see some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic classic cars up close.

In addition to traditional car shows, there are also events that cater specifically to classic car enthusiasts. The Mille Miglia, for example, is a 1000-mile road race through Italy that features classic cars from around the world. The Tour Auto, held in France, is another popular event that attracts classic car owners and enthusiasts from all over Europe.

European classic car tours and road trips

For classic car enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in a beautiful vintage car. Europe offers plenty of opportunities for classic car tours and road trips, with scenic routes that take in some of the continent’s most breathtaking landscapes.

One popular route is the Romantic Road in Germany, which winds through picturesque towns and villages, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights. The Amalfi Coast in Italy is another popular destination, with its winding roads and stunning views of the Mediterranean. The French Riviera is yet another classic car hotspot, with its glamorous cities and beautiful coastline.

European classic car market – buying and selling

Buying and selling a classic car can be a complex process, with many factors to consider. When buying a classic car, it’s important to do your research and ensure that you’re getting a fair price. It’s also important to inspect the car thoroughly and check for any damage or signs of wear and tear.

When selling a classic car, it’s important to price it fairly and market it to the right audience. Classic car auctions are a popular way to sell a classic car, with many auction houses specializing in vintage and classic cars. Online marketplaces such as eBay and Hemmings are also popular among classic car buyers and sellers.

Conclusion

European classic cars are a testament to the timeless elegance and beauty of automotive design. From the sleek lines of a Porsche 911 to the stately elegance of a Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, these cars have captured our imagination and inspired generations of car enthusiasts. Whether you’re a collector, a fan, or simply appreciate the artistry of classic cars, European classics are sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not take a trip back in time and experience the joy of driving a classic car for yourself? You won’t be disappointed.

Remember when you used to go to college and coach in your two-wheeler vehicle, like bicycles, bikes, scooters, etc? No problem with parking; much more affordable for a college student, lightweight and easy maintenance. Not just for students, the two-wheelers are also a good choice for youngsters or someone planning to purchase a vehicle with less burden or maintenance, costs, parking, and, most importantly, affordable. In this article, we will learn why two-wheelers are your best option.

1. Lightweight – Most two-wheelers are lightweight, like scooters and e-bikes, the non-geared ones that are easy to use and handle. So the two-wheelers are a good and safe option for those who can’t handle much weight and are uncomfortable driving heavy vehicles. So, you can rent bikes monthly, or however convenient for you, you can book a bike from India’s trustable bike rental company rental riders, which is also affordable.

2. Less Difficulty In Parking- Finding a parking spot is the biggest challenge most vehicle holders face, especially those in metropolitan cities. For those who carry a two-wheeler, this is a small problem, as a two-wheeler can easily find suitable parking at lower prices. So what are you waiting for? Choose your bike from bike rental service apps like Ontrack and Royal Brothers and get your rental bike at as low as.

3. Much More Affordable- Whether renting or purchasing a new vehicle, two-wheelers are always better. These are much more affordable than renting cars, making it easier for those who don’t want to spend much on transportation. Additionally, the two-wheelers could be a lifesaver if you live in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Noida, or Bangalore. So you can search for bike rental apps like freedo and Ontrack that allows people to rent their bikes for long and short periods.

4. Great Mileage- Compared with cars, two-wheelers have better mileage. Cars usually can’t exceed the mileage of 20 km – 25 km per litre of petrol. On the other hand, bikes and other two-wheelers can go up to 50- 90 km/litre. Hence, you are saving a good amount on the fuel as well.

5. Saves Your Time From Traffic- Having a bike or two-wheeler also saves much time in heavy traffic saves. Hence, using a bike to cover shorter distances can save you from traffic and significantly your precious time.

6. Save on toll tax -With a two-wheeler, you can save a lot on toll taxes, as two-wheelers are exempted from toll taxes.

The size of a bike is much smaller than a car, so it doesn’t reduce the road capacity. Also, the volume of these vehicles is less than that of heavy vehicles. Furthermore, because of their lightweight, two-wheelers do not cause a lot of strain on the roads, owing to their lightweight.

Bottom Line

Using a bike for transportation is more than just cool for the younger generation. Still, it also has several benefits, like these are much more affordable, lightweight, low maintenance, save you from traffic, helps in parking, etc. If you plan to rent or purchase a vehicle, a two-wheeler is a better option. 

In India, the Motor Vehicles Act has made it mandatory for all motorised vehicles to have a third-party liability insurance policy. This includes two-wheelers too. If you have a two-wheeler, then it is mandatory to have a third-party bike insurance policy to be able to ride it on the roads. If you are found riding a bike without an active insurance policy, you will have to pay a fine and face jail time. However, these policies do not cover damages to the insured bike. Hence, many bike owners opt for a comprehensive two-wheeler insurance policy.

There are many insurers offering online insurance for two-wheelers in India. This allows you to compare providers and plans with ease and customise the policy as per your needs. They also offer a free online bike insurance calculator to estimate the premium based on the features you need in the policy. This article will discuss a two-wheeler insurance premium calculator and why using it is crucial.

What Is A Bike Insurance Calculator?

It is a free online tool offered by insurance providers to help you calculate the premium of the bike insurance policy based on your needs. You are required to enter the make and model of your bike, its age, location, type of insurance policy, add-on covers, and voluntary deductible. Once you enter these details, the calculator will estimate the premium of the policy. If this is beyond your budget, you can make changes to the add-ons and deductibles and bring it within your reach. This can help you calculate bike insurance costs in no time. Here are some simple steps for using a bike insurance premium calculator:

• Enter the registration number of the bike
• Enter the make and model of the bike
• Provide the registration date and city of registration of the bike
• Choose the type of bike insurance policy (third-party or comprehensive)
• Provide details of the previous policy
• Set the IDV
• Select add-on covers
• Choose the voluntary deductible
• See the calculated premium

Why Is It Important To Use an Insurance Premium Calculator For Bikes?

Many people don’t put a lot of thought into buying bike insurance. They either look for the cheapest policy or purchase the one their family/friends referred to. However, in recent years, many people have started understanding the importance of a comprehensive two-wheeler insurance policy and have started spending time customising it as per their needs. This is how a bike insurance calculator can help you find the perfect policy:

●      Helps save money

The premium of a bike insurance policy depends on many factors. Most of us are unaware of these factors and hence, don’t understand why the premium of certain policies is higher than others. With a bike insurance calculator, you can see each factor’s difference in the premium and choose a cost-efficient plan for your needs.

●      Assists in making informed decisions

When you decide to buy a comprehensive bike insurance policy, there are many things that you need to decide. The most important benefit is the ability to choose add-on covers to boost the coverage. You can also choose a higher voluntary deductible to reduce the premium by increasing the co-payment borne by you. When you use a bike insurance calculator, you can see the impact of each of these aspects on the premium and can make an informed decision about opting for it or not.

Summing Up

Suppose you are particular about finding the perfect bike insurance policy. In that case, a bike insurance calculator is the best tool to help you find the perfect set of features in an affordable package. Hence, make sure you use it optimally to find a policy that fits your needs. Good Luck!

Getting locked out of the car is a frustrating experience that can happen to anyone, anywhere and at any time. It can be particularly stressful if they’re in a hurry or far from home. In these kinds of situations, having a vehicle protection plan can turn out to be a lifesaver.

This type of protection plan is a service contract that covers the cost of unexpected repairs and maintenance for the vehicle. This includes everything from engine repairs to roadside assistance. Most vehicle protection plans are designed to provide coverage for a specific length of time, typically ranging from one to five years.

Anyone thinking about purchasing a protection plan should do their research so they choose a reputable provider. Veritas Global Protection has a proven track record of providing reliable coverage and excellent customer service. The company has been in business for over a decade and has earned a reputation for being a trustworthy partner for drivers across the United States.

In fact, Veritas Global Protection is one of the most trusted names in the vehicle protection industry. Their comprehensive coverage plans offer drivers a range of benefits, including protection against unexpected repairs and maintenance costs, 24/7 roadside assistance, and reimbursement for the cost of a rental car.

One of the most common questions drivers have about vehicle protection plans is whether they can help in the event that they have locked their keys in their vehicle. The short answer is yes. Below are ways in which this can be done:

Roadside Assistance

Most vehicle protection plans, including those offered by Veritas Global Protection, include 24/7 roadside assistance. This means that any driver locked out of their car can call the roadside assistance hotline, and help will be sent out.

The roadside assistance team can help the driver gain access to their car in a number of ways — by, for example, picking the lock or using a Slim Jim to open the door. If these methods don’t succeed, a locksmith can be called to provide assistance.

Not all roadside assistance plans cover locksmith services; however, the plans offered by Veritas Global Protection do. This reassures drivers that of all the obstacles they might encounter on the road, being locked out of their own vehicle is not one to be overly concerned about.

Rental Car Reimbursement

A driver who has accidentally locked their keys in their car and needs to wait for a locksmith to arrive may be left stranded without a mode of transportation. This can be particularly problematic for anyone far from home or who needs to be somewhere in a hurry.

Fortunately, most plans offer rental car reimbursement. This means having the option of renting a car and being reimbursed for the cost of the rental. Veritas Global Protection’s plans include rental car reimbursement, so drivers can go ahead and rent a car while waiting for the locksmith to arrive.

Drivers should keep in mind that there are often limits to how much can be reimbursed for rental car expenses. It’s important to check the details of the plan to see what the restrictions are and what expenses are covered.

Other Advantages of a Vehicle Protection Plan

While getting locked out of a car is certainly frustrating, it’s not the only reason to think about a protection plan. There are many other benefits to having this type of coverage, including:

Protection Against Unexpected Costs for Repair 

One of the most significant benefits a plan can provide is avoiding unexpected repair costs. The cost of breakdowns or repairs won’t have to be covered by the holder of the plan out of their own pocket. When factory warranties expire, vehicle protection plans can ensure that holders don’t pay for vehicle repairs.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that they are safeguarded against unexpected breakdowns and the cost of repairs brings drivers peace of mind. 

24/7 Roadside Assistance

The majority of vehicle protection plans include 24/7 roadside assistance. This can be invaluable if car trouble strikes mid-journey.

Rental Car Reimbursement 

As previously mentioned, rental car reimbursement ensures ongoing mobility when a car becomes disabled through a breakdown or collision.

Transferable Coverage

Some vehicle plans, including those that are offered by Veritas Global, offer transferable coverage. When the car is sold, coverage can be transferred to the new owner.

It is also important to note that even if a vehicle protection plan does not cover locksmith services explicitly, help might still be available through the customer service team assigned to the plan. They may be able to source a reputable locksmith in the area or offer other advice on how to resolve the situation.

Of course, the best way for drivers to avoid the hassle of locked keys is to take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place. One simple solution is for drivers to always carry a spare key, either in their wallet or purse, or hidden somewhere in their car. Alternatively, investing in a keyless entry system means a car can be unlocked with a code or mobile phone app.

In conclusion, while locked keys can be a frustrating and stressful situation, having a protection plan like the ones offered by Veritas Global Protection can provide some peace of mind and options for getting back on the road quickly. Whether roadside assistance is included in the plan or needs to be added, knowing that help is available can make all the difference. And drivers who take steps to prevent locked keys in the first place can avoid the hassle altogether and enjoy their time on the road.

German carmaker Volkswagen has spent over £26 billion in compensation, buyback schemes, civil settlements, and fines years after it was first implicated in the Dieselgate scandal. VW made the news again last week  when they settled an ongoing dispute outside of court with 91,000 UK drivers. . This time around, the company is expected to pay £193 million.

Although VW executives and representatives have not admitted outright all the allegations against them in Wales and England, they did admit to using defeat devices in around 11 million of their diesel vehicles sold worldwide. The US Environmental Protection Agency was the first to discover the cheat equipment installed in thousands of Volkswagen diesel vehicles across the United States. About a year later, authorities implicated Mercedes-Benz in the same scandal and the diesel emissions scam eventually spread throughout the UK and the whole of Europe.  Around 1.2 million vehicles were affected in the UK.

In a statement issued on behalf of the carmaker, VW apologised to their affected customers for mis-selling their EA189 vehicles, which were all equipped with cheat software. The statement also included a promise that VW will keep working on earning back the trust of their Wales and England customers.

VW’s chief legal officer Philip Haarmann referred to the settlement as a milestone in the Volkswagen Group’s commitment to moving beyond the Dieselgate scandal. VW also stated that this was the most prudent decision for them financially, rather than dragging out the court process.

Additionally, the settlement allowed car owners and their legal representatives to avoid going to the courts for an expensive, complex, stressful, and lengthy trial procedure. Without the settlement, the concerned parties would have had to go to the trial in January 2023.

The legal action against Volkswagen also included Skoda, SEAT, and Audi, which are all subsidiaries of the Volkswagen Group.

What is a defeat device?

The Dieselgate scandal started around seven years ago, but its effects continue to be felt globally to this day. Aside from involving several of the world’s most popular car manufacturers, such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW, it also significantly contributed to the decades-long problem of air pollution. This is because of the defeat devices illegally installed in each of the affected vehicles.

A defeat device is equipment or software designed to detect when a diesel vehicle is being tested. Once it does, the device automatically suppresses emissions to a level that is within the legal limit set by the World Health Organization. However, once the vehicle is tested in real-world road scenarios, the vehicle’s emissions levels are revealed to be at least 40 times over the WHO and EU limits.

As such, VW, Mercedes, and the other carmakers sold were pollutants as they emitted volumes upon volumes of NOx or nitrogen oxides.

Defeat devices as pollutants

The gases that are emitted by vehicles, nitrogen oxides, are extremely dangerous for the environment as well as for human health. This is the major reason why authorities in countries affected by the diesel emissions scandal are encouraging car owners and their legal representatives to file a claim against the manufacturers who sold them the vehicles. NOx emissions are also the focus in many anti-pollution and anti-emissions campaigns and programs, such as the UK’s Clean Air Zone.

Nitrogen oxides are comprised of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). On its own, NO does not have serious negative effects, but once it interacts with the more poisonous NO2, the entire story changes and they transform into toxic gases known as NOx.

NOx gases are the cause for the formation of smog, that yellowish or brownish haze that looms over large cities, particularly in the summer season. They also contribute to the creation of ground-level ozone and acid rain.

Constant exposure to NOx emissions can cause low blood pressure, diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, metabolic issues, certain respiratory ailments, and hematologic side effects. Other possible health issues include chronically reduced lung function, breathing problems, eye irritation, corroded teeth, headaches, and loss of appetite.

In severe cases, NOx emissions can worsen existing health conditions such as asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and long-term damage to the respiratory system. Constant exposure to excess levels of NOx emissions can lead to premature death. Such was the case of Ella Kissi-Debrah, a nine-year-old who died because of an air pollution-related asthma attack. The young girl was exposed to high amounts of nitrogen oxides in the area she regularly took when walking to school.

NOx may also have effects on a person’s mental health, triggering anxiety and depression.

Diesel emission claims

What can you do to help?

Filing an emission claim against the manufacturer that sold you the vehicle is the best contribution you can give to the anti-air pollution campaign. A compensation claim is what  you can receive as a monetary reward for what your manufacturer “stole” from you when they misled you into buying their vehicle. It won’t be an easy process but you can always hire a panel of emissions solicitors to help you out.

Emissions claims solicitors, such as the panel at ClaimExperts.co.uk, are professionally trained, highly experienced, and regulated. They will stay with you every step of the way, maximising the probability of you winning the case. Visit their website and get in touch with them now.

Car insurance is a big expense for most people. We all know it’s important to get the best coverage for our vehicle, but what does that mean? This blog post will discuss how to get the best car insurance deals and what you need to be asking your agent. We’ll also provide some tips on saving money on your premiums while still covering all of your bases with quality protection!

It’s never too early to start thinking about your next car insurance renewal. Whether you’re looking for a new provider or just want to get the best deal, it pays to do some research before you sign up.

Car insurance is a subject that many people dread to think about. But, once you have the car, the next thing is how much it will cost to insure it. It can be difficult to understand all of the different options for auto insurance, so we are here today to help!

The best way to get the cheapest car insurance is by comparison shopping. This means being diligent and checking out several companies, but it can pay off in terms of money saved. Check online to find a list of all local providers, so you have them at your fingertips when you do need an estimate.

Things to do

-call around for quotes

– get written estimates from multiple insurers

-do not forget about other types of liability coverage that are available besides just auto insurance

-shop on price alone or choose based on what type of discounts they offer beyond just reasonable student discount rates

-take the time to read over your insurance policy, so you know what is and isn’t covered

– consider raising your deductible to get a lower premium rate

– always be sure to update your policy when you make changes to your car, like adding or removing drivers, getting a new car, etc.

Choose Wisely

Many things go into finding the best car insurance deals. It can seem overwhelming at first, but it’s not too difficult if you take it step by step. And remember, it’s always worth taking the time to compare rates between providers.

When choosing the best car insurance check, https://www.miway.co.za/ for affordable insurance premiums to suit your budget. Compare the cost of car insurance with quotes from different insurers. Then, get free online quotes to find out how much you can save on your car insurance premiums.

You can also lower your car insurance costs by taking advantage of discounts offered by some insurers. They include multiple policy discounts and safe driver discounts. You can also reduce your premium costs by increasing your deductible amount. However, be sure that you have enough money to cover the increased deductible in case of an accident.

Another way to get the best car insurance deals is to shop around for the best rates and compare policies. Be sure to read the fine print before signing any contract to know what is covered and what is not. If you are not happy with the policy, you can always shop around for a better deal.

In Conclusion

Finally, keep your car insurance up-to-date by renewing your policy on time. Failure to do so could result in higher premiums and may even lead to the cancellation of your policy. So follow these tips and get the best car insurance deals today!

A sparkling clean car is not by accident or nature. This is due to some regular efforts by the owner to ensure the vehicle is in good condition at all times. In some cases, you may have to visit a repair station to keep your car suitable and in conducive need. The following are a few tips for a quick spotless vehicle.

1. Regular washing

Washing your car regularly can help to give it a beautiful look. You can always do it for yourself or at a cost. Use of proper detergents and thoroughly rinsing it will keep your car spotless and shiny. You can also do a quick waterless car wash when in a hurry and you do not have time to clean the car thoroughly. For your car to have an outstanding look, you have to commit yourself to get rid of any dirt regularly

2. Using a protective car wax coating

A protective coating on your car will help repel dirt and other rudiments that may dirtily damage it. The coating keeps your car shining and clean always. The car wax coating is stylish and durable, giving your vehicle a more extended, shiny, and appealing look for a long time. The protective car coating wax differs in cost and quality, but they all play the same role in protecting and giving your car a spotless look. Nexgen ceramic spray and Adams ceramic boost are top notch types of ceramic coating you can always seek for.

4. Park your car in the right place

The garage has and will always be the perfect place to keep your car protected from any form of damage or scratches that may harm its look. The early morning dew, rain, hail, and hot rays from the sun will, in most cases, affect the surface of your car. Therefore, park it in a safe place away from atmospheric elements that may damage the surface when not driving it. After a long trip, before parking your car in the garage, you can dust it off or wipe the raindrops on the surface to ensure that there are no stains that may cause rust.

5. Ensure a clean interior of your car

Once you have taken reasonable care of the exterior part of your car, you can focus on the interior region and the unexposed surfaces. Some underneath covers may not be seen, but they also matter in ensuring that your vehicle is in a suitable condition. You should do a detailed cleaning of these parts, removing out the accumulated dirt and grease. The interior part of your car, ranging from the seats, belts, dashboard, boot, and floor, should be cleaned regularly to keep the vehicle in the right and attractive condition. For more guides, you can always do better research on various sites.

Wrapping up

To sum up, maintaining your car in a spotless condition will require your continuous effort on keeping it. You have to work on it to ensure that it remains in the state you want to see, which will either cost you an extra coin or your time and energy.

Last month, a legal expert in Austria revealed to the European Court of Justice that vehicles under the Volkswagen Group continue to use illegal technology to manipulate emissions. Similar to the defeat devices in the Dieselgate scandal in which VW was involved, the software is capable of detecting when a vehicle was to undergo lab testing.

According to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) adviser, the software can only be considered safe and legal if it is used to prevent sudden and serious damage to the vehicle’s engine. The software that VW installed in the cars is said to have used altitude and temperature to lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. It manipulates a valve that allows exhaust gases coming from the engine outlet to recirculate. This leads to lesser combustion temperatures and lower NOx emissions.

However, consumers believe that the software is a defeat device because at altitudes over 1,000 metres and heat levels outside the temperature range of 15 to 33°C, the software immediately shuts off the valve. The set range and altitude setting do not work with real-world driving conditions in these regions seeing that the topography and the annual temperature of Austria and Germany do not fit with the device’s settings. As such, it is regarded as a defeat device since, as stated, its settings do not take into consideration real-world driving conditions.

Volkswagen’s latest emissions software is called the EGR or exhaust gas recirculation system. It is commonly used in the automotive industry and has been recognised as a nitrogen oxide emissions reduction system since 2005. This is one of the reasons why the German car manufacturer argued that the software is permitted by law.

The CJEU adviser, however, reiterated that emissions-rigging technology or software is illegal even if it was used to stop engine clogging or ageing. This was mandated through a court ruling in December 2021.

VW’s latest emissions scandal has been referred to the Austrian courts and ruling is expected in more or less six months.

Diesel emissions scandal

This development is the latest challenge that Volkswagen has to hurdle after the Dieselgate scandal that unfolded in September 2015. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency accused VW of fitting their diesel vehicles with defeat devices that hid real emissions levels during testing. The software detects when a lab test is about to happen and it then brings down emissions to legal levels. In reality, however, the vehicles release NOx emissions that go beyond the safe and permissible limits when driven on actual roads.

Volkswagen has spent more or less £26 billion (or €31.3 billion) and recalled thousands of cars that were allegedly fitted with defeat devices. This year, VW is expected to settle payments totalling to at least £1.017 billion (or €1.2 billion).

Aside from VW, other car makers have also been implicated in the emissions scandal. There’s the Mercedes Dieselgate scandal, which first broke in 2016 but is still going on up to this day. BMW, Alfa Romeo, Vauxhall, Fiat, Peugeot, Nissan, Citroën, Suzuki, Jeep, Renault, and Ford are also alleged to have used cheat software in several of their diesel vehicles.

The diesel emission scandal is an important matter because it affects not only automobile consumers but the environment and human health as well. NOx, the gases emitted by the affected vehicles is a combination of toxic gases nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (N). They are responsible for the formation of smog, acid rain, particulate matter (PM), and contribute to the development of ground-level ozone.

These pollutants cause a variety of illnesses, specifically respiratory issues like asthma and aggravated asthma, breathing problems, reduced lung function, chronic headaches, corroded teeth, appetite loss, and eye irritation. In severe cases, exposure to nitrogen oxides, and specifically PM2.5 found in particulate matter, can lead to severe lung problems leading to permanent lung damage, chronic breathing problems, and cancer.

If a person with lung disease or cardiovascular problems is constantly exposed to NOx, the devastating effects can lead to premature death. Such is the case of Ella Kissi-Debrah, the nine-year-old girl who died in London because of air pollution.

Along with her mother Rosamund, Ella walked to school every day, passing by an area with heavy air pollution. Not long after, she started fainting, going in and out of the hospital, and had several seizures. After an investigation, the coroner ruled Ella’s death as caused by air pollution.

NOx or nitrogen oxides also affect vegetation and cause significant damage on plants and animals. It can also trigger mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

What you can do

If you believe that your vehicle has a defeat device installed, do your part in reducing toxic emissions by getting in touch with your manufacturer. If you have a Mercedes-Benz, for example, you can ask if your vehicle model is in the list of Mercedes diesel emissions scandal. If it is, expect your manufacturer to send you a recall notice.

You’ll also have to find a team of emissions experts that can help you process your emission compensation claim in the best way possible. Work with any of the teams at Emissions.co.uk if you want to increase your chances of filing a successful claim.