These are some of the new cars coming to you in Q1 2022

BMW 2 Series Coupe

Is it worth it to keep your existing car? Well, it’s dependent on a variety of criteria, including the state of your vehicle and your financial situation. Consider the cost, the risk, and the accessibility.

For example, it’s certainly a sign to upgrade if your mechanic spends more time with your car than you do, and your cumulative maintenance expenditures are approaching that of a new car. Alternatively, if your car is structurally unstable due to corrosion or collision damage, it’s time to bid goodbye.

These are some of the new cars coming to you in Q1 2022 we think you might be interested in.

Kia Sonet
Kia Sonet

Image Credits: oto.com

The Sonet sits between the Stonic and the Seltos in Kia’s local SUV range, but it also marks the first time that Kia’s new Connect Lite connectivity service is available in Singapore. It is a mobile-connected service that may be accessed via an app. Owners may remotely start and stop the engine, lock and unlock the vehicle, and pre-set their preferred temperatures. It also shows the car’s diagnostic information, such as miles, tire wear, fuel level, battery health, and notifies the driver of any upcoming potential problems.

Citroen C4
Citroen C4

Image Credits: topgear.com

Citroen has updated its C4 family hatchback for 2022, adding a few aesthetic adjustments and increasing the range of the e-C4 electric model. You can expect Citroen’s new progressive hydraulic suspension system to be installed too. The car’s springs and shock absorbers operate in tandem with hydraulic pressure and rebound brakes to progressively limit body motion over bumps, increasing ride comfort.

Honda HR-V
Honda HR-V

Image Credits: carwow.co.uk

This year’s Honda HR-V will resonate with pragmatists with its modest design, practical interior, and intelligent storage loading capabilities, unlike many subcompact SUVs that rely on unusual aesthetics to entice buyers. The HR-V is also now Honda’s smallest vehicle, but its innovative Magic Seat on the back row folds flat to offer a vast cargo compartment that larger crossovers may struggle to fit.

Nissan Qashqai
Nissan Qashqai

Image Credits: topgear.com.sg

The new Nissan Qashqai has shifted onto the Renault-Nissan Alliance CMF-C platform, which makes it larger and more powerful. There will be greater internal space for those in the front, as well as additional headspace and legroom for those in the passenger seats. There are also 50 liters of extra room in the boot so say hello to more storage space this year!

Hyundai i30 N
Hyundai i30 N

Image Credits: 24htech.asia

The new i30 N has been improved with additional performance, newer design elements, and the latest modern technology to provide optimum driving enjoyment. It literally is a racing vehicle for every day, balancing superb speed and racetrack-ready driving characteristics with comfort for daily commute. For greater control and smoother shifts, the new N DCT eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters will be available.

Ferrari 296 GTB
Ferrari 296 GTB

Image Credits: carbuzz.com

The Ferrari 296 GTB is a high-performance sports vehicle that ushers in a new era for the Italian carmaker centered on a V-6 engine and hybrid technology. Both traits are uncommon in Ferrari’s lengthy history of road vehicles, yet they have both been used in racing endeavors. A mid-mounted turbocharged V-6, an electric motor positioned between the engine, and the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox provide a cumulative 819 horsepower. All of that energy is directed only to the back wheels, which along with the 296 GTB’s small size and lightweight, will provide for a really enjoyable ride.

Audi SQ7 & SQ8
Audi SQ7

Image Credits: firstpost.com

The Audi SQ7 is an SUV that tries to be everything you like. It not only has seven passenger seats, but it also features a 500-horsepower V-8 engine that delivers amazing performance, and it is lavish enough to warrant its exorbitant cost. In comparison to the Q7, the SQ7 has a more menacing appearance to match its increased power, and it also boasts improved handling.

On the other hand, the Audi SQ8 boasts 500 horsepower and shares its chassis and powertrain with the Lamborghini Urus. Dressed up like a performance SUV, the SQ8’s disposition is closer to the standard Q8’s than the mechanically comparable RS Q8 variant. This compromise position will appeal to certain drivers because it provides athletic aesthetics and amazingly smooth performance without sacrificing functionality.

BMW i4
BMW i4

Image Credits: caranddriver.com

The BMW i4, the world’s first all-electric Gran Coupé, offers superb performance, a high degree of comfort, and the right features to make it your everyday vehicle. This edition is fitted with BMW eDrive technology, which delivers dynamic performance values of up to 400 kW/544 hp (BMW i4 M50). It is the right partner for any journey, with a range of up to 591 km (BMW i4 eDrive40) and 5 comfortable, spacious seats.

BMW 2 Series Coupe
BMW 2 Series Coupe

Image Credits: forbes.com

The BMW 2 Series Coupé boasts much-improved steering capabilities and exceptionally nimble handling thanks to a track that is 31 mm wider than its predecessor and a rear-wheel-drive design that is unparalleled in its category. The selection of powerful motors provides economical and exciting driving adventures to spice up your 2022.

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

Image Credits: motor1.com

Lastly, we have the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer that will make you utterly convinced of its efficiency. The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox creates a seamless and precise performance. Drive with adaptability and efficacy in a vehicle designed for folks who are active and on the go, whether you’re running to meet a client or rushing back home to be with your family after work.

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4 Things that Prove It’s Better to Hire Movers in Singapore Instead of Doing a DIY Move

So you decided to move to a new apartment in Singapore. Congratulations on taking the big step! It is pretty rewarding when all your hard work has paid off and you can finally get a place of your own. But before the moving date, have you considered the possibility of hiring movers in Singapore or do you plan on doing it yourself? If you’re someone who has a jam-packed schedule all the time, the former can be the best choice for you. But of course, you ask – how much will hiring movers cost?

The most common misconception of moving with the help of movers in Singapore is that it burns a hole in the wallet because hiring one is more expensive than doing a DIY move. What they fail to account for is the costs of renting a truck, paying a couple of your friends to help you move the boxes from the old address to the new one, and of course, the day that you have to spare to spearhead the moving process. It’s not as easy as a day of hard work.

If there is one thing that Singapore movers know, it’s that moving is a long, tedious, and complex process. Plus there are also things that you need to understand when doing the move by yourself. Below are some of them that every mover, including you, should take into consideration.

  1. The pieces of equipment you’ll use in the move

First thing on the list is the truck. Of course you will need to rent a moving truck and be sure to get the one that can transport all your belongings. And if you think that’s it, think again. It’s not as simple as throwing your things to the truck and going to the new address.

What you need to understand is when you choose to move all by yourself, you won’t have access to the following materials used by moving companies:

  • Fuel to be used in the truck you rented for transportation (sometimes, you have to fill the tank multiple times).
  • Pieces of equipment like furniture pads, ropes, moving dollies, stretch wrap, and straps
  • Huge packing boxes, tapes, scissors and other packing supplies.

If you move to the new address all by yourself, you might have to rent or purchase most of the things mentioned above.

  1. A bunch of your time will be allotted to the moving process

We know. Most people think that time is not commonly quantified as a “cost” but the time you allot in completing the entire moving process yourself will eventually add up as the moving date is nearing.

Before the actual moving date, you will have to spend a couple of days packing all of your things and trying to find ways on how to organize them all for easier access. And of course, on the big day, you might have to take more than one trip from your old home to the new one during the transportation process (especially when the truck you rented cannot carry all of your stuff in one go).

  1. Stress, damages, and potential accidents and injury

Since you’re not a professional mover, the risk of some of your fragile stuff getting broken or damaged is very likely. When this happens, it can become pricey as you try to get it repaired. Additionally, you may lack the knowledge and techniques that professional movers have which can inflict injury to you and your friends and knock on wood, costing you trips to the hospital.

Going through these hardships can make the entire process stressful, which in turn, makes the moving experience horrible.

  1. Finding people who can help you and paying them

Even if you’re the strongest person in the world, you won’t be able to do the entire moving process alone. Save yourself the hassle. Ask for the help of some people to make the process smoother. But apparently, in order to keep them happy as they lift the boxes and transport the stuff, you will have to feed them and buy them drinks, which means that’s another cost on your end.

Wrapping Up

When you think about the things mentioned above and the actual costs of doing a DIY move, we bet you’d drop the idea right away. While hiring movers in Singapore means adding another cost on your move, if it’s going to save you from the hassle and unexpected expenses that moving brings, we think it’s worth it.

 

 

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Here are the answers to your FAQs on electric vehicles (EVs)

EV charger

Apart from COVID-19 being a hot issue in Singapore and globally, electric vehicles (EVs) are also gaining much attention in 2021.

Earlier this year in February, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat announced that there would be more incentives to encourage EVs’ early adoption in his Budget speech. If you’re a car owner or planning to become one, this topic should be on your radar.

Here are the answers to your FAQs on EVs answered by CNA Insider and the Electric Vehicle Association of Singapore’s vice-president, Paul Welsford.

#1: Is it true that EVs are more environmentally friendly?

If we’re talking about lower emissions over a lifetime, the answer is yes. Welsford added that EVs produce no roadside emissions and has less heat and sound, thus making them ideal for the environment.

#2: Can I save more money driving an EV?

You can save about 50% if you drive an EV compared to a petrol car.

To give you some numbers, the average monthly fuel costs of the Kona 1.6 Turbo, with a fuel efficiency of 100 km per 6.7 litres, is about S$250. Compared to Kona Electric, with 100 km per 15 kilowatt-hours efficiency, the cost amounts to only roughly S$120.

#3: What if my battery runs flat on the road?
EV battery

Image Credits: Yahoo Finance

Then be sure not to let it run flat!

As with a fuel car, there will be an indication of your battery life so you can gauge your journeys better. But if you do ever run out of juice, you will need to engage services to provide you with a quick top-up via a mobile battery or have them tow your car to the nearest charging point.

#4: Can a single charge take me to Johor Bahru?

Yes! But even if you run out of power, be glad to know that there are fast chargers in Johor Bahru that can load you up with additional hundreds of kilometres in approximately half an hour.

More specifically for Hyundai’s Kona Electric long-range version, you can even drive to Kuala Lumpur in one go. However, it is advisable that you charge at intervals and take the opportunity to get some food and rest up.

#5: Is my safety more compromised if I get into a crash?

Your safety is compromised in a car crash, no matter whether you’re driving an EV or a conventional car.

But take heart in knowing that our sunny island is prepared to handle such fires. Also, EVs have advanced battery management systems to regulate power and temperatures. With every passing quarter, car-makers are working hard at making these systems even safer for you.

Need more deets? Watch the video below for a comprehensive comparison between an EV and a petrol car.

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NETS Motoring Card is here for driver’s every need

We all know that the NETS Motoring Card is convenient and has made our lives easier — no more switching cards between car parks and ERP gantry gates, instant top-up on the go via NETS FlashPay Reader App, and more. It’s the card you need when the future ERP system is in place. But if you’re still not on board, here’s how you can try it out when you’re at your nearest gas station or when buying your next car insurance!

1. Wipe the grime at SPC

Get a NETS Motoring Card for FREE when you purchase a Cloffs N Spunges Microfiber Pack C900 @ $9.90 at any SPC service station to keep your ride sparkling clean. This cloth is soft to the touch and perfect for use on the interior and exterior of your car. It can even remove polishing wax and microscopic dust particles!

Find out more here.

2. Just buy anything at Shell

For all Shell lovers, we’ve got one more reason for you to enjoy. Just make any in-store purchase at Shell Select and enjoy a zero top-up fee for your NETS Motoring Card. Tip: Consider topping up $50 value each time to maximise cost savings while having full card insurance coverage. After all, the NETS Motoring Card comes with a 12-month free card protection and waiver of your card replacement fees. Do remember to register your card online too!

Find out more here.

3. Get protected with HL Assurance​

Protection goes a long way. And it gets even better when you get a FREE NETS Motoring Card with $100 stored value. Just sign up for the Car Protect360 car insurance from HL Assurance and enjoy 25% off today! Drive with peace of mind while covered with 24/7 roadside assistance, daily transport allowance and high personal accident coverage.

Find out more here.

4. Wash up at Caltex

For those who want to keep things clean, go for a carwash at any Caltex service stations, and pump at least $60 gross on fuel to get a FREE NETS Motoring Card! Promotion period lasts from 1 July to 31 Aug 2021.

Find out more here.

If you already own a NETS Motoring Card, fret not, here is your chance to share the joy with your loved ones too.

This article is brought to you by NETS.

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Finding an authorized inspection centre

If a car or vehicle is not properly maintained, the driver is more likely to lose control of the car. The car may get involved in accidents, damaging property and causing injuries. Hence in Singapore the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has made it mandatory for vehicle owners to get their vehicle inspected periodically. To ensure that the inspection criteria matches that of the LTA, the car owner should get his car inspected at a LTA authorized inspection centre (AIC). The LTA will send a message to the car owner three months before the inspection of the car is due.

Inspection frequency

The inspection frequency of a vehicle by the LTA depends on the age, type of the vehicle and how it is being used. No inspection is required for new cars which are less than three years old since they will still be in good condition. For cars which are more than three years old and less than ten years old, the car should be inspected once every two years. If the car is more than ten years old, it should be inspected every year. If the car is being used as a taxi, it will be used for more hours daily compared to a personal car. Hence, the taxi should be inspected every six months.

Inspection centre

Additionally, car owners who are using their car to travel long distances on road trips often would like to get their car inspected as a preventive measure. So like car owners with older cars, these car owners would like to find a suitable LTA inspection centre for regular car inspection in Singapore. Many of these inspection centres will charge more for the first car inspection, and for the subsequent car inspections the inspection charges will be less. Hence, car owners should spend some time finding a reliable inspection centre, which they can use for all their car inspections.

Selection

There are a large number of vehicle inspection centres in Singapore. Some of these are businesses, while others are run by associations, especially car owners associations. The commercial inspection centres are sometimes offering better prices for customers who are bringing their vehicle to the centre for re-inspection. The non-profit associations will offer better prices, especially for members. Another consideration while choosing the inspection centre is the location, most car owners prefer a centre close to the place where they work or stay, they do not want to travel long distances only for inspection.

Procedure

Usually the car owner who wishes to get his car inspected will first have to contact the inspection centre where he wishes to get the vehicle inspected on phone or using other methods. He will hand over the car to the vehicle inspector, who will inspect the vehicle and test the braking system, steering system, suspension system, lighting and other parts. It is observed that more than 95% of the vehicles are passing the inspection. In case the vehicle does not pass the inspection, it will have to be reinspected after fixing the defective component or system.

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