The article discusses the concept of the coupe SUV, using the Renault Arkana as an example. It describes the vehicle as a combination of a hatchback, SUV, and coupe, and references BMW's X6 as a precedent in creating demand for this type of car. The review explores whether the Renault Arkana can stand out in this niche market.

Before driving to visit family or friends, top up coolant and washer fluid, check wipers, rear window and mirror defrosting, keep fuel tank full, and ensure the battery is ready for cold weather. For electric cars, ensure adequate charge. When travelling with kids, prepare games and car-safe toys, avoid choking hazards and missiles, and reward good behavior. Keep valuables out of sight in cars, lock gifts in the boot, park in well-lit, busy areas, and consider pre-booking parking spaces. Use car sharing to reduce costs and stress, set alarms for pay and display parking, and add extra time to journeys to account for potential delays.

Maximizing the range of an electric car can be achieved by easing on and off the accelerator to utilize regenerative braking, avoiding sudden speed changes, using cruise control on suitable roads, and removing non-essential items from the car. Driving at reduced speeds, using Eco mode, and not fully charging the battery regularly can also help. To minimize the use of air conditioning, which drains the battery, one can use heated seats and steering wheels or look for an EV with a heat pump. Preconditioning the car's cabin while charging overnight can pre-heat the car using mains electricity instead of the car's battery.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have become popular as a solution to the climate crisis, but their environmental friendliness is under scrutiny. EVs do not emit carbon dioxide while driving, but their production, heavy metal use in batteries, and reliance on electricity from fossil fuels raise concerns. The production phase of EVs has a higher carbon footprint compared to internal combustion engine vehicles due to the energy-intensive process of mining and producing battery materials. However, organizations like Transport & Environment report that EVs in the EU emit nearly three times less carbon than gasoline or diesel cars. Companies like Polestar aim for zero emissions by 2030, while others like Volkswagen and Toyota target zero carbon footprint by 2050. The advancement in battery technology and the shift towards renewable energy sources are expected to further reduce the carbon footprint of EVs.

As schools reopen, drivers are advised to exercise extra caution due to the potential presence of children, who may not always be attentive to traffic and could step out unexpectedly. Those dropping off children at school should avoid double parking. With an increase in children cycling to school, drivers should be vigilant, especially near driveways and parked cars, and use the 'Dutch reach' method to prevent dooring accidents. Slow and careful driving is recommended near primary schools. Parents are advised to plan safer, quieter routes for their children who walk or cycle to school and to educate them about road dangers, traffic lights, and pedestrian crossings, keeping in mind that children do not perceive risk and speed as adults do.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is characterized as practical, stylish, and enjoyable to drive, though it is noted as being somewhat expensive.

During hot weather, it's important to monitor your car's temperature gauge and coolant levels to prevent overheating. If the temperature warning light comes on, pull over safely and turn off the engine to avoid expensive damage. Low coolant levels can cause overheating, poor engine performance, and reduced fuel economy. Carry extra coolant and let the engine cool down before checking or adding coolant. If overheating persists, a leak in the cooling system may be the issue, and a garage visit is advised.

The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, recently signed into law in Ireland, introduces a new vehicle category called powered personal transporters (PPTs), which will include e-scooters that comply with specific technical and usage regulations. Currently, e-scooters are illegal on Irish roads as they cannot meet the criteria for mechanically propelled vehicles (MPVs). The new regulations will set standards for construction, safety, power, speed, and weight of e-scooters. Users must be at least 16 years old, and e-scooters cannot be used to carry goods, have seats, or be used on footpaths, pedestrian areas, or motorways. Fixed charge notice penalties for non-compliance have been set at €50. The act also clarifies the status of pedal-assist e-bikes, which will not require registration, tax, or insurance if they meet certain criteria. High-power e-bikes, or e-mopeds, will be classified as MPVs and will require registration, tax, insurance, and an AM licence, with these rules expected to be in place by Q1 2024.

The article serves as a guide for individuals planning to drive in Europe during the school holidays. It acknowledges that driving in a foreign country can be difficult and offers tips to help ensure a safe journey. The article is timely, considering the rising temperatures and the onset of the holiday season, which is when many people choose to travel by car for their vacations.

The article discusses the strategic importance of raw materials essential for manufacturing electric vehicle (EV) batteries, such as lithium. It highlights the concern over the possibility of one country dominating the supply of these critical minerals, which could have significant implications for the global economy. The article also touches on the current state of the EV market, noting that despite a decrease in fuel prices, they are still higher than the previous year, leading to increased interest in EVs. However, potential buyers are facing long wait times for delivery, up to nine months.

The article discusses the Irish Government's commitment to invest nearly €1 million daily on cycling and walking infrastructure, which was intended to improve safety and align Ireland with countries like the Netherlands and Denmark in terms of per capita spending on cycling. However, there seems to be an issue with local authorities not efficiently utilizing the allocated funds. The article includes the perspective of Ed Moynihan, a cyclist from Navan, who finds cycling in his area to be dangerous and stressful. The journalist, Geraldine Herbert, is investigating what is happening with the money that was set aside for this purpose.