The arrival of the new 76 registration plate has once again brought plenty of motorists in Swindon onto the hunt for a new car.
September is traditionally a busy time for car sales, with drivers considering everything from upgrading their existing vehicle to making the switch to electric.
Peter Tubb, General Manager at Waylands Volvo Swindon, says there are three key things motorists should consider before committing to their next vehicle.
Choose a car that fits your lifestyle
The first consideration should be how the car will actually be used.
Family trips, commuting, longer journeys and everyday errands can all place different demands on a vehicle, so motorists should think about practicality before being distracted by individual features or the latest technology.
A test drive is also an important part of the process, allowing buyers to assess everything from comfort and handling to the technology and controls.
Think about whether electric is right for you
For drivers considering an electric vehicle, charging arrangements should be part of the decision from the outset.
The dealership points to figures suggesting 46 per cent of UK drivers are likely to choose an EV as their next car, while the number of public charging points continues to increase.
There are now more than 119,000 public charging points across the UK, including more than 27,000 rapid or ultra-rapid chargers, according to the figures supplied by Waylands.
Drivers considering an EV should also look at how and where they will charge regularly, particularly if they do not have access to off-street parking.
Apps such as the Volvo Cars app can help motorists locate charging points and plan charging stops on longer journeys.
Make use of expert advice
The final piece of advice is not to underestimate the value of talking to a retailer before making a decision.
Seeing different vehicles in person, comparing models and taking a test drive can help narrow down the options, particularly for buyers who are unsure which type of car best suits their needs.
Retailers can also explain current offers, finance arrangements and available incentives, although buyers should make sure they understand the full cost of any finance agreement rather than focusing solely on the monthly payment.
Tubb said the arrival of a new registration plate was a good opportunity for motorists to reassess what they actually need from their next car.
“Buying a new car is a significant decision, so it’s important to look beyond the initial price and think about what will work best for your lifestyle, from practicality and running costs to the technology and features you’ll use every day,” he said.
For more information, motorists can contact Waylands Volvo Swindon on 01793 882299 or visit Waylands.
