There is a type of South African man who will tell you, with absolute conviction, that diesel is the only serious answer.

He drives a bakkie. He has driven a bakkie for 20 years. He once towed a fully loaded horse trailer from Johannesburg to the Karoo on a single tank, and he wants you to know about it.

He is not entirely wrong.

Then there is the other guy. 

He lives in Cape Town, commutes eight kilometres each way to work and genuinely cannot understand why anyone would pay a premium for a diesel engine that spends most of its life idling in traffic on the elevated freeway. 

He is also not entirely wrong. 

This is the petrol versus diesel debate in essence. Two people, two valid positions, two completely different driving realities. In 2026, with fuel prices at an all-time high and a 50-litre tank of 95 unleaded costing R400 more to fill than it did at the start of the year, the stakes have never been higher. 

What the numbers actually say  

Let’s start with the science. 

Diesel engines use compression ignition rather than spark plugs, extracting more usable energy from every litre of fuel. The Automobile Association puts the efficiency advantage at between 25% and 30% compared to a comparable petrol engine. 

On a long highway run, that gap is real and it is felt. More kilometres per tank, better pulling power at lower revs and an engine built to last. The diesel bakkie has become the default vehicle for tackling the South African outdoors for good reason. 

But what the diesel evangelists do not always mention is this: diesel vehicles cost more to buy, often significantly more. The AA’s own running cost data shows that for drivers covering under 35 000 kilometres a year, diesel rarely wins on total cost of ownership, once you factor in the higher purchase price, steeper servicing bills and the cost of components like turbochargers and particulate filters. 

If a diesel vehicle costs you R65 000 more than the petrol equivalent, your annual fuel savings will take a full decade to recover that gap. That is a long time to wait for a return on a decision made in a showroom.  

@toyzautohouse 🚗 Are Diesels still the more economical option? #cars ♬ original sound – Toyz Auto | 082 592 8536

And there is one more thing worth knowing: diesel in South Africa is deregulated. The government sets the maximum retail price for petrol each month, but retailers can charge what they like above the published wholesale reference price for diesel. Perfectly legal. It’s why the petrol station on your corner can be R2 more expensive than the one two streets away. It is also why diesel prices spiked viciously the moment the Strait of Hormuz closed, before most of us had read a single headline about it. 

The honest answer  

“Forget the diesel,” says Brendon Carpenter, brand marketing manager at Suzuki South Africa, “unless your driving genuinely demands it.” 

Direct, perhaps provocative, but it reflects a reality many South Africans need to hear. 

Most of us are not towing horse trailers. Most of us are doing school runs, commutes and the occasional weekend away. 

For that kind of life, a modern turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine will serve you well, cost less upfront and keep you out of the workshop more often. 

The rule of thumb is simple. 

If you cover more than 20 000km a year on open roads, tow often or need serious torque for work, diesel earns its premium. If you are a city driver covering shorter distances who plans to trade in within five years, the numbers favour petrol. Resale value has historically favoured diesel, but that gap is narrowing as more buyers weigh up the options and reach the same conclusion.

@tredcars Diesel gas prices tho 🥴🥴 #carcommunity #cartiktok #diesel #dieselpower #dieselengines #turbodiesel #carfacts #foryou #greenscreen ♬ Lo-Fi analog beat – Gloveity

What about a third option?  

More South Africans are now asking a different question altogether. A March 2026 fuel sentiment study found that 75% of respondents said rising costs were already punching holes in their monthly budget, and nearly one in four was actively considering switching vehicles to electric. 

Most are not looking at fully electric, though. 

Plug-in hybrid sales surged 280% in 2025, while pure battery electric vehicle sales fell 17%. With just over 500 public charging stations nationwide, full electric remains aspirational for most South Africans outside Sandton and the Atlantic Seaboard. 

The hybrid sits in a more honest place. It does not ask you to rewire your garage at home or plan your route around charging stops. It runs on the same fuel you’ve always used but burns considerably less of it, especially in stop-start city traffic. For a country where budgets are under pressure and infrastructure remains uneven, that middle ground is where momentum is quietly building. 

The petrol versus diesel debate was never really about fuel. It was always about who you are as a driver, how you use your car and what your financial reality looks like. Those things have not changed. What has changed is the cost of getting the decision wrong.  

Know your mileage. Know your roads. Know your wallet. Then fill up accordingly. 

Words: Adrain Ephraim
Illustrations: Shutterstock

The post Petrol vs Diesel: Which side are you on?   appeared first on TFG Media.

For those who experience the pull of an engine rev as something almost spiritual, motorsport museums offer more than static displays. They are living archives of human ingenuity, ambition and speed. Across continents, these spaces invite visitors to step into the stories behind the machines, tracing the evolution of racing from gritty endurance trails to cutting-edge technological spectacle. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, design inspiration or pure adrenaline, this is your passport to the ultimate motorsport pilgrimage

United States: Where speed became spectacle

At the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway, racing history feels almost sacred. Situated inside the famed oval of the Indianapolis 500, its museum captures over a century of American motorsport. Expect to stand inches away from iconic Indy 500 winning cars, each representing a moment when engineering met nerve at 300km/h. It’s not just about speed here – it is about legacy, tradition and the relentless pursuit of victory.

On the West Coast, in LA, the Petersen Automotive Museum offers a broader cultural lens. Sleek, immersive and visually striking. it blends motorsport with design and pop culture. Rotating exhibitions keep things fresh, but the motorsport galleries – featuring everything from F1 cars to endurance racers – highlight how racing innovation trickles down into everyday automotive design.

@petersen_museum

In the South, in Alabama, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a hidden gem. Home to the world’s largest collection of motorbikes alongside an impressive array of race cars, it’s a love letter to mechanical craftsmanship. The building is surrounded by a lush racetrack that adds to the sensory experience, making it less like a museum and more like a sanctuary of speed.

Europe: The Heart of Motorsport Heritage

In Stuttgart, Germany, the Mercedes-Benz Museum is (to be expected) an architectural and engineering marvel. Its spiral design takes visitors on a chronological journey through automotive history, with motorsport threaded throughout. From the 1930s-50s Silver Arrows era to modern Formula 1 dominance, the museum captures how Mercedes-Benz has consistently redefined performance and innovation. Italy, of course, delivers pure passion.

@mayson_berliner

The Museo Ferrari in Marinello and the Enzo Ferrari Museum in neighbouring Modena are less museums and more emotional experience. Dedicated to the legacy of Enzo Ferrari, they immerse visitors in the mythology of the Prancing Horse. Expect championship-winning F1 cars on display. interactive simulators and exhibitions that celebrate Ferrari’s fusion of artistry and speed. It’s visceral, loud (even in silence) and unmistakably Italian.

Not far away, in France, the Le Mans 24 Hour Museum captures the endurance spirit of the legendary race – the world’s oldest active endurance sportscar race held annually since 1923. Here, the focus shifts from outright speed to resilience. It’s all about cars that have raced throughout the night, drivers who pushed beyond exhaustion and innovations born from necessity. The rotating display of winning cars, from vintage prototypes to modern hybrids, tell a story of survival as much as success.

@24heuresdumans

A Local Lens: South Africa’s Racing Legacy

Closer to home, Killarney International Raceway in Cape Town offers a gateway into South Africa’s motorsport culture. While not a traditional museum, its on-site displays, historic race events and club culture create a living archive of local racing history. From classic saloon cars to contemporary track days, Killarney embodies the grassroots passion that fuels motorsport in our country.

On race weekends, the atmosphere of roaring engines, braai smoke and devoted fans has become an experience no static exhibition could ever replicate.

Vehicle enthusiasts should also head over to the Franschhoek Motor Museum. Housed on the L’Ormarins Estate in the Cape winelands, it features the extraordinary private collection of the Rupert family, spanning over a century of automotive history, including rare racing machines. It’s quieter and more contemplative, but no less powerful in showcasing the evolution of speed and design.

@itsnot_immo

Words: Aaliyah Omar

Photos: Gall/Getty Images, Shutterstock, Unsplashed

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Paolo Barilla’s journey bridges two seemingly unrelated worlds – motorsport and food – but at its core, it is a story about relentless pursuit of excellence, courage, innovation and leaving a legacy that inspires future generations. 

Instead of embracing a future in his family’s food business, young Paulo pursued another passion instead. He entered the world of racing at 14 years old with karting – a discipline known for shaping the skills and instincts of future champions. A year later, in 1976, he’d already claimed the Italian 100cc karting title. Karting was more than a sport for him; it was a classroom for precision, strategy and the art of reading a racetrack. 

Over the next decade, Paolo steadily built a career defined by consistency and achievement. His drive and determination eventually led him in the early 1980s to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most gruelling races in the world. After two attempts and not finishing, in 1985 he achieved one of the most coveted victories in motorsport, crossing the finish line in a Porsche. This marked him as not only a skilled driver but a master of endurance racing, where focus, stamina and teamwork are just as crucial as speed. 

Paolo then focused on Formula 2 and 3, winning two of his races, before reaching another milestone in 1989 when he debuted in Formula 1 at the Japanese Grand Prix, driving for the Minardi-Ford team. Although F1 presented an entirely new level of challenge and global attention, Paolo approached it with the same mindset that had guided him from karting to Le Mans. 

His F1 career was brief, lasting just two years, but in many ways it was more of a personal journey – the culmination of years of discipline, hard work and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of excellence. 

Culinary Mind  

After his motorsport career (which included trying his hand at off road racing in the Paris- Dakar rally), Paolo took a road that surprised many, but made perfect sense for someone so driven – and who is, after all, a member of an iconic Italian food family (in business since 1877, when it was a humble bakery in Parma).  

In 1991, he joined the business (at its French office), transitioning from fast cars to the food world. Where he once chased milliseconds on a racetrack, he now pursued flavour, quality and cultural heritage.  

Paolo approached his work with the same rigour he had applied to racing. He became deeply involved in understanding the production process, exploring how ingredients, techniques and tradition could combine to create products that reflect Italian excellence and cuisine. 

In 1994 he was appointed Deputy Chairman of the company (a position he still holds). Through his leadership, the Barilla brand has continued to embrace innovation while honouring tradition. It has also expanded its operations all over the globe, and he’s helped turn it into the world’s largest producer of pasta.  

His passion for the food industry extends beyond profits; Paulo is also chairman of the Barilla Food & Nutrition Foundation (which research sustainability and global food challenges) and the Italian Food Association. 

Legacy In Motion  

Paolo Barilla’s story is about more than personal achievement; it’s about influence, vision and creating a lasting impact across industries. In motorsport, he demonstrated that discipline, resilience and teamwork are essential for success. In the family business, those same values translate into careful stewardship, innovation and a deep respect for heritage. 

Paolo’s ability to excel in such different arenas underscores a fundamental truth: the qualities that make someone a champion are not limited to a single field – they are universal. His legacy extends beyond the world of business or motorsport, serving as an example of how passion, curiosity and dedication can fuel success in any field. From high-speed circuits to high-tech food production, Paolo Barilla has consistently demonstrated that mastery, when guided by passion and discipline, transcends boundaries. 

@scuderiafrancesco DID YOU KNOW? Ep. 2 – Barilla 🍝🇮🇹 Paolo Barilla left F1 to run his family’s business—Barilla, the world’s largest pasta company!Eat pasta, go fasta! 🏎️💨 Big thanks to F190 Store (36 Mihai Eminescu) for providing the space! Their specialty coffee is top-tier, and their name almost feels made for our F1 concept. Speaking of F1 in 90’, that was the year Ayrton Senna won his second world championship! As for what F190 really means, visit their shop and ask Bogdan, a 10/10 guy who’ll tell you all about it. ☕🏁 #scuderiafrancesco #F1 #formula1 #italy #pasta ♬ original sound – Scuderia Francesco

Whether behind the wheel or leading a global brand, Paolo Barilla has also proven that performance and culture can coexist, creating a narrative that is as compelling as it is unique.  

When he returned to the F3 track in the Monaco Historic Grand Prix in 2014 – two decades after his racing career ended – he won the race (driving a 1976 Chevron B34), proving he still has what it takes to be a champion on the tarmac. 

And in a perfect full-circle moment, last year, the Barilla brand became an official partner of Formula 1. 

Click here for cool pasta-themed playlists.

Words: Kauthar Booley  

Photos: Gallo/Getty Images, Shutterstock 

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The new electric model will arrive in 2027, and motoring journalists are abuzz with anticipation, predicting that it might be one of the best-driving electric vehicles around based on the specs.

Originally launched in 1986 (as a special for Group A racing), the BMW M3 quickly established the template for what a driver’s saloon should be: light, balanced and direct. The M3’s weight-to power balance, exceptional handling and the way it rewards driver inputs made it the benchmark for decades.   

It combined track credibility with everyday usability, which kept the badge relevant to both purists and buyers who need to carry a briefcase and a bag of groceries. That heritage sets a high bar for any electric successor. 

What changes with electric?

Electric power alters the fundamentals. Batteries add mass and shift the centre of gravity lower, which helps cornering grip but can blunt the agility that comes from a lighter, better-balanced chassis. On average, this can add a few hundred kilograms, roughly 20 to 25% more mass versus comparable internal combustion engine models, a not insignificant factor for handling and tyre load. 

With increased mass comes altered balance, and that, in turn, affects the overall driving experience, especially in the high-performance range where M3 diehards extract the most reward. This is perhaps the biggest drawback. So much of what makes the M3 the M3 is its character. A high-performing phenom that draws its identity from its deeply mechanical roots. The rumble, growl and reaction of internal combustion, in the minds of many, is the defining characteristic and one that cannot be adequately substituted. 

But, for those with somewhat less vehement ties to this particular aspect of the M3’s makeup, the overall experience may still be intact. Electric motors (this model will have four, one for each wheel) deliver instant torque, which improves launch times and in-gear response. 

BMW sees the electric M as a technical opportunity. It has stated that fully electric M cars will set new performance standards, with bespoke battery and cooling systems aimed at repeatable high-performance us 

 Also read: 7 Essential car maintenance tips before you hit the road

Preserving the M personality

Sound, software and interface design will be crucial moving forward. BMW is already recording the sound of heritage M engines to blend with interior acoustics that support driver engagement without pretending to be an old-school internal combustion engine. 

Beyond simply sounding good, the sound element still matters because M drivers rely on what they hear to judge speed, eff ort and momentum. BMW does not need to copy the old engine note, but it does need to give the driver clear feedback that matches how the car is performing. 

Beyond sound, careful tuning of power delivery and driving modes can keep the car feeling playful when you want it to be, and secure and stable when you’re pushing hard. 

@bradparsons95 M3 is so loud it bursts your ears 😮 #fyp #bmw #bmwg81 #m3touring #foryou ♬ original sound – Brad Parsons

Performance & the field

Benchmarks already exist. The Porsche Taycan has shown that an electric performance car can be extremely fast and still deliver that performance again and again without fading. Audi and Mercedes now off er electric saloons with similar straight-line pace. 

For BMW, matching headline acceleration will not be enough. The electric M3 will need to feel consistent when driven hard, stay composed through corners and give the driver confidence to push every time.  

The gains are easy to identify. Electric power brings instant response, strong grip and new ways to shape how a car behaves on the road.  

The losses are more emotional, with extra weight and the absence of the familiar inline six soundtrack. Whether speed and precision can replace that connection will come down to how well BMW tunes the overall driving experience. If the car feels balanced, engaging and confidence-inspiring from behind the wheel, an electric M3 can still live up to its badge. 

Words: Tshiamo Seape 
Photgraphy: Supplied 

Also read: Can your car’s tyres handle winter’s wet conditions? 

The post What going electric means for the BMW M3 appeared first on TFG Media.

Every driver can benefit from a basic understanding of what car maintenance entails. You don’t need to be a mechanic to keep your vehicle in good shape, and with just a few simple habits you can improve the safety of your car, save money, and extend the life of your four-wheeled baby. Here are some essential, practical car maintenance tips to keep in mind before and during your time on the road (especially if you’re heading out over the Easter long weekend).  

1. Ensure that your tyres are road-ready  

Always start with your tyres. They’re literally where your car meets the road, so their condition matters more than most people realise. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month as a general rule of thumb and definitely before a long road trip. Underinflated tyres can reduce your fuel efficiency and will increase the risk of a blowout tyre, while overinflated ones can affect the handling of your car and could result in a tyre blowout. Lastly, keep an eye on the thread depth; worn tyres struggle to grip the road, especially in wet conditions. If you’re not sure how much thread is left, pop over to your nearest tyre specialist to have a look, and they will be able to gauge how many kms you have left before your tyres need replacing.  

@carssouthafrica The right tyre pressure is important, a balanced pressure is good but always check your car’s tyre pressure guideline, either in the petrol cap or inside the driver’s door. For best results check when the tyre is cool and fill it when your car is full, especially if you are going on a long road trip. You can also visit @dunloptyressa they have the best equipment to accurately check and set your tyre pressure! Phew! One less thing to worry about. #dunlop #dunloptyres #car #cartok #southafrica #cars #carscoza #tyresafety ♬ original sound – Cars.co.za

2. Check your car’s fluids 

Your engine relies on several fluids to function properly, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Check these levels regularly and top them up when needed. Engine oil is especially important; low or dirty oil can cause serious engine damage over time. If you’re unsure, follow your car manual for recommended intervals. You can get them checked when you fill up your tank at a petrol station or if you take your car for a pre-trip service. 

3. Make sure all your lights are working 

Lights and signals are another easy but crucial check. Do a pre-trip check by walking around your car to ensure all headlights, brake lights and indicators are working properly. Not only does this help you see clearly at night, but it also ensures other drivers can see your intentions on the road. Replacing a bulb is usually quick and inexpensive, yet often overlooked. 

4. Don’t forget about your wipers and windshield 

Clear visibility is essential for safe driving. If your wipers leave streaks or make noise, it’s time to replace them. Keep your windshield washer reservoir filled, especially during dusty or rainy conditions. A clean windshield can make a big difference in reaction time and overall safety.  

5. Pay attention to unusual noises  

It might sound odd, but you should actually listen to your car. Unusual sounds, vibrations, or warning lights on your dashboard are your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems later. If something feels off, it’s better to check it early rather than wait for a breakdown. 

@rcjmobilemechanics Hear a strange noise? Don’t ignore it, your car is warning you before the breakdown hits. RCJ got you! #CarTips #RCJMobileMechanics #MechanicLife #AutoCare #vehiclemaintenance ♬ original sound – WeAuto | Baton Rouge 📍

6. Keep an emergency kit on hand  

While this may sound a little excessive, it’s a great idea to keep an emergency kit in your car. This doesn’t have to be elaborate, just a few essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, a first aid kit, bottled water, and a spare tyre with the tools to change it. Being prepared can turn a stressful roadside situation into a manageable one.  

7. Stick to a regular service schedule 

Even if your car seems fine, routine maintenance like oil changes, brake inspections and filter replacements help prevent issues before they start. Think of it as a small investment that pays off in reliability and peace of mind. 

@csautomall Here are 5 important reasons on why you should service your car on time. Warranty Coverage: New cars come with a manufacturer’s warranty, covering repairs and replacements for a set period, which provides peace of mind and saves on maintenance costs. Latest Technology & Features: New vehicles include the most up-to-date safety features, infotainment systems, and fuel-efficient or electric powertrains. Better Reliability & Lower Maintenance: Since everything is brand new, you’re less likely to experience mechanical issues early on, reducing repair costs compared to used cars. Customization Options: You can choose the exact trim, color, and features you want, instead of settling for what’s available in the used market. Better Financing & Incentives:
Automakers and dealerships often offer lower interest rates, rebates, and other promotions that make buying new more affordable than expected. #veichleservice #tips #cardealership #coralspringskia #fyp #salesman #carmaintenance ♬ original sound – Coral Springs Automall

Taking care of your car doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of attention and consistency, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and ensure every trip, whether short or long, is as safe as possible. 

Words: Yashna Balwanth 
Photography: Freepik

The post 7 Essential car maintenance tips before you hit the road appeared first on TFG Media.

@barrettjacksontv Carroll Shelby didn’t just want to dominate #Ferraris on the track, he wanted to beat them on the street, too. That vision gave rise to #LittleRed, an experimental #Shelby #GT500 unlike anything else. For decades, this legendary car was thought to be lost forever … until we found it. Watch more of “The Hunt for Little Red” on @youtube ♬ original sound – Barrett-Jackson

Unfortunately, it was the heart of the man that got to him, with angina pectoris forcing Shelby to retire from racing in 1960. However, this didn’t douse his lust for the fast and furious, as he dreamt of creating something akin to — but more reliable than — the Aston Martins, Ferraris, Jaguars and Maseratis he had driven during his racing career.  

US + UK  

Though in thrall to the speed of these iconic sports cars, Carroll Shelby was less impressed by what he saw as an inherent unreliability, with engines that required frequent maintenance. Why not, he reasoned, pop a good old American V8 engine into one of these lightweight, nimble vehicles?  

His dream became a reality when he learned that British manufacturer AC Motors could no longer source the engine required for their AC Ace sports car. Shelby pitched his idea to AC Motors, who loved it, then to Ford Motor Company, who were taken with the idea of a car that could go head-to-head with the Chevrolet Corvette.  

Thus the newly formed Shelby American and AC Motors set to work, crafting something hitherto unique: a sports car that fused British engineering with American muscle. Shelby dubbed it ‘the Cobra’, a name he said came to him in a dream.  

While the goal was to maintain the lightweight form factor of the Ace, when building the prototype, engineers had to beef up the body somewhat to accommodate the significantly greater power of a V8 engine. That meant fitting a limited-slip Salisbury rear differential, inboard rear disc brakes to reduce unsprung weight and improve handling, and thicker main chassis tubes.  

The result was the prototype Carroll Shelby Experimental 2000 (although just ‘CSX2000’ was engraved on the chassis), which was tested at the Motor Industry Research Association track in England, using the new Ford Fairlane 221 CID V8 engine.  

Finally, in February 1962, the chassis was flown to America to be fitted with a four-speed transmission and one of the very first Ford 260 CID V8 engines, at hot-rodding legend Dean Moon’s auto shop in Santa Fe Springs in California.  

Smoke, mirrors + yellow paint  

Two months later, the Cobra CSX2000 debuted at the New York Auto Show, decked out not in the iconic blue that came to be associated with the car, but in pearlescent yellow paint that Shelby was advised would look striking beneath the harsh glow of fluorescent lighting.  

It was the first of many paint jobs on the sole prototype with which Shelby did the rounds, creating the illusion that the cars were rolling off the production line. 

Thankfully, production did get going and 75 cars were sold by the end of 1962. The performance was truly mind-blowing for a street-legal vehicle, clocking 0-96km/h in four seconds and with a top speed in excess of 265km/h.  

But Shelby didn’t design the Cobra merely to tear up the streets.  

The car emerged as a powerhouse in American motorsport in the early 1960s, winning multiple races in the US Road Racing Championship and Sports Car Club of America events. 

 To compete with Ferrari’s GT cars, Shelby knew that modifications had to be made to the Cobra, resulting in the Shelby Dayton Coupe, which helped the manufacturer clinch the International Championship for GT Manufacturers in 1965. 

One for the dreamers 

With its timeless looks, innovative marriage of steel frame with lightweight aluminium body, and that monster engine — with the consequent eye-watering performance and track success — the Cobra quickly established its legacy as a pioneer of US motorsport excellence. Elvis Presley drove one in the 1966 film Spinout, and the car featured in the hit TV crime series Honey West, cementing its place in popular culture.  

Fewer than a thousand were manufactured, making it a collector’s item of the highest order, with originals selling for more than $1 million today.  

More than that, however, the Cobra remains a symbol of American innovation, an inspiration for designers and engineers the world over… and a reminder of what can happen when dreams become reality.  

@polloloco_cars Mclaren M1A Oldsmobile, amazing V8 sound! #fyp #foryou #foryoupagee #mclaren #mclarenm1a #elvispresley #elvis #v8 #v8power #theicestmoritz ♬ som original – bakura

Words: Anthony Sharpe
Photography: Unsplash, Gallo/Getty images

Also read: These car brands are eager to be the best

The post How the Shelby Cobra drove into the history books appeared first on TFG Media.

“With the excitement of holidays and the long-awaited relaxation of year-end festivities, it can be tempting to let your guard down or become distracted from basic medical and safety precautions,” warns emergency medicine specialist Dr Steve Feris. “Small precautions can save lives, and the holidays or after-exam parties are no exception. Accidents tend to happen when they are least expected, but many can be prevented.” 

“In our hot summer climate, dehydration and heatstroke are real dangers we can’t ignore. For drivers, it’s essential to stay well hydrated and take regular breaks to keep their brains alert on the road. Never leave anyone or any pets in a parked vehicle, not even for a few minutes at a rest stop, because the temperature inside the car rises to dangerous levels that can very quickly become a medical emergency,” Dr Feris says. 

“Be sure to carry your prescribed medications with you when travelling, and ensure you have a sufficient supply to last in case your trip home is unforeseeably delayed. For people with a chronic health condition that requires them to stay away from certain foods or activities, the holidays can be fraught with temptation, so please take extra care to monitor and control your condition, and seek medical attention early if you notice something out of kilter,” he advises. 

Dr Feris says hand and food hygiene become even more important when we are travelling. “Roadside snacks and eating from unfamiliar establishments can also expose us to gastrointestinal infections or ‘tummy bugs’, which can range from uncomfortable and inconvenient to potentially serious, requiring hospital care. 

“While travelling, it’s safer to stick to light snacks such as crackers and foods that are less likely to support microbial growth. Avoid heavy meals on the road or anything that may have been prepared in questionable conditions or made in bulk earlier without proper temperature control,” he says. 

Safety tips for safer roads 

According to Netcare 911’s regional operations manager, Shaun Paul, road safety begins long before you hit the highway – starting with a thorough vehicle service and safety check. “Be sure to check you have a warning triangle, emergency torch, and an up-to-date first aid kit for every journey,” he advises.  

“Driver fatigue and drunk driving are two major and preventable contributors to road accidents. Stop for regular breaks and rest to keep your eyes fresh and your reflexes sharp. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and if you are a passenger, insist on driver sobriety – it could save your life,” he says. 

Seatbelts or approved age-appropriate car seats are essential for everyone travelling in a vehicle. Remember, children must never stand or sit on someone’s lap in a moving car. “Keep your eyes on the road at all times and be vigilant of other road users. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by mobile devices while driving – leave phone calls, messaging and navigation to others or pull over somewhere safe before looking at your phone,” Paul says. 

Words: Netcare 

The post Expert safety travel tips appeared first on TFG Media.

Follow these 10 road safety tips:

1. Inspect the condition of your tyres 

Your vehicle’s tyres need to be maintained properly and checked regularly to ensure that they are in good condition. Check for any cuts, cracks, bulges or damage from the countless hazards encountered when driving, including potholes and sharp debris well in advance and fix before going on the road.  

2. Don’t forget the spare tyre  

Check the condition and pressure of the vehicle’s spare tyre as well. If the vehicle is equipped with a mobility kit instead of a spare tyre, ensure that it is in proper working order before leaving for your destination.   

3. Maintain tyre pressure 

Maintaining the correct tyre pressures is essential, and this should be checked regularly at least every two weeks. Under-inflated tyres can negatively affect the vehicle’s handling, increase fuel consumption and wear. Over-inflated tyres will result in reduced grip, longer braking distances and significantly increased wear in the centre of the tyre. The tyre pressures must also be adjusted for unladen and laden operating conditions and should be checked when the tyres are cold. 

4. Do a road-worthy check on your trailer and caravan 

If you are towing a caravan or trailer, carefully inspect the condition of the tyres, and adjust the pressures correctly. Trailers and caravans often stand in the sun for long periods with little use, impacting the performance and lifespan of the tyres. 

5. Check the tread on your tyres  

The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm for tyres with tread wear indicators, or 1mm for tyres without this feature. If the tread is below the legal limit, it’s time to replace your tyres. Wet handling and braking performance are significantly impacted when the tread depth drops below 3mm, and is especially dangerous below 1.6mm, resulting in much longer stopping distances and a significantly higher risk of aquaplaning.  

6. Make sure your service is up to date 

An all-round technical check-up of your vehicle and trailer or caravan is advised before embarking on your trip. Items to be examined include oil and coolant levels, brakes, battery, lights, windscreen wipers and shock absorbers. You can either do this yourself or visit a vehicle service or fitment centre, such as BestDrive.  

7. Take regular rest stops 

In the rush to reach your holiday destination, many people drive long distances without stopping for a break. This results in fatigue and the increased likelihood of a collision. It is recommended to stop and have a break at least every two hours. If you’re tired, rather stop in a safe location and rest – after all, arriving late is better than not getting there at all. 

8. Be vigilant for pedestrians 

Almost half of South Africa’s road accident fatalities involve pedestrians. Accordingly, watch out for people crossing the road, especially at night. Pedestrians are advised to wear bright clothing, ideally with reflective fabric, when walking at night to improve their visibility to other road users. 

9. Safely pull off in an emergency  

If your vehicle breaks down during your journey, pull well off the road into the safest possible location, and place a warning triangle at least 50 metres behind your car to warn other motorists. Changing tyres or working on your car on the roadside verge is extremely dangerous, so exercise caution. 

10. Practice good driving behaviour 

Poor driving behaviour is a major contributing factor in road accidents. Mobile phone usage when driving has become one of the world’s leading causes of accidents, as it takes your attention and eyes off the road – often with tragic consequences. Avoid drinking when driving, as it severely impacts your vision, awareness and reaction times. Finally, showing a bit of patience and consideration for other road users goes a long way towards a peaceful, enjoyable and safe holiday for you and your family! 

Words: Continental Tyre SA
Images: Pexels 

Also read: Screen-free activities to keep your kids busy on the road 

The post 10 Road safety tips for drivers appeared first on TFG Media.

Tyres remain the most important safety component on any vehicle, providing the crucial point of contact between the car and the road, responsible for managing all of the forces generated by accelerating, braking and steering. While the handling characteristics of the vehicle and tyres are fairly predictable in dry conditions, wet roads significantly reduce the threshold for maintaining grip and control and add a measure of uncertainty regarding the limits of safety. 

The tread design of a tyre fulfils several roles, from noise reduction to enhancing traction. However, a crucial element of any tyre is the grooves in the tread that are designed to channel water away from the road surface. This ensures that the rubber remains in contact with the road to provide an all-important grip. However, even the best tyres in the world and cars with the most advanced active safety features experience longer stopping distances in wet conditions compared to dry due to slippery conditions – and driving behaviour should be adapted to suit. 

The situation becomes even more dangerous as the tyre wears and the grooves in the tyre become shallower. New on-road tyres typically have a tread depth of 8 mm, while off-road tyres are between 10 and 12 mm. Did you know that new tyres are capable of dispersing up to 30 litres of water a second at 80 km/h, but as the tread wears, it is able to displace less water? This leads to longer stopping distances. 

Although the legal tread depth is 1.6 mm for tyres with integrated tread wear indicators, or 1 mm without this feature, it is recommended that tyres should be replaced at a minimum tread depth of 3 mm due to much longer braking distances experienced in the wet with tyres that are worn. 

In a back-to-back tyre test performed at Continental’s advanced Contidrom testing facility in Germany, the braking distance increased by 6.9 metres on tyres with the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm, compared to the full tread depth of 8 mm (an increase of 24 percent). Tyres with a 3 mm tread only took 2.7 metres (or 7 percent) longer to come to a full stop, proving exactly why the condition of your vehicle’s tyres is critical when driving in the wet. 

Here are two dangers of driving in wet conditions: 

Aquaplaning  

Every tyre has a limit on the volume of water it can displace via the tread grooves when driving. Once that limit is exceeded, water accumulates in front of the tyre faster than it can be displaced, resulting in the tyre being separated from the road surface by a layer of water, which is known as aquaplaning. In this dangerous situation, the tyre loses all grip, and the driver experiences a total loss of control – with potentially disastrous consequences. 

Two major factors contribute to aquaplaning, the first being the tyre’s remaining tread depth. As with wet braking, the ability of the tyre to disperse water reduces as the tyre wears, and there is a greater risk of aquaplaning when the tyre has worn down to 3 mm, and even more so as it reaches just 1.6 mm. 

The second contributor to aquaplaning is speed. The faster the tyre is travelling, the higher the rate at which it is required to disperse water. Once the tyres are overcome by the volume of water, they lose contact with the road surface and the car becomes out of control. Steering and braking inputs have little impact on the car’s trajectory in this situation, and the assistance of driver aids such as ABS brakes and stability control is rendered almost entirely ineffective until the vehicle is through the water and grip is restored, in which case it may be too late to avoid an accident. 

Therefore, it’s essential to reduce speeds when driving in wet conditions, approach any standing water with caution, and ensure that your tyres have the required tread depth to handle these conditions. 

Potholes  

Potholes are a major hazard in South Africa due to a lack of road maintenance, while extended rainy periods result in new potholes emerging from one day to the next. 

Approach wet conditions with extra care and reduce speed to account for potential tyre-decimating potholes that may be filled with water and not immediately visible – especially at night when they are more difficult to see. Hitting a pothole at high speed risks destroying the tyre and possibly even the rim or suspension of your vehicle, while lower speeds significantly reduce the severity of the impact. 

Should you hit a pothole, pull off the road as soon as possible in a safe area and inspect the sidewall of the tyre for any cuts or bulges that may indicate external or internal damage. If in doubt, head to your nearest tyre fitment centre as soon as possible for inspection by a tyre expert. 

Text: Continental Tyres
Image: Pexels 

The post Can your car’s tyres handle winter’s wet conditions?  appeared first on TFG Media.

Today’s motor vehicles provide people with a greater freedom of movement, with easier access to places of work and trips further afield from home. However, with the number of cars on the roads increasing over the years, car crashes are becoming more common. When cars carry their passengers along a road, the engine provides the vehicle with kinetic energy. This is the energy of motion.   

In the event of a crash, vehicles lose kinetic energy and ultimately come to a stop, but this energy doesn’t vanish. Instead, it’s transferred to other objects, vehicles and sometimes people, causing the damage seen in road collisions. An object that has been struck by the car may absorb the kinetic energy of the moving car or return it to the vehicle.  

Today’s cars are designed to take the brunt of this energy, transferring it into their metal frames, which are crushed and distorted, breaking their internal components. However, despite this protective technology, the driver and passengers exposed to a collision will usually absorb a small percentage of the kinetic energy. Being much more fragile than the metal machine that surrounds them, at least one of a car’s occupants will suffer some kind of injury in 43 per cent of car crashes.  

The life-saving armour of modern vehicles  

Seat belts

During a car crash, you’re more likely to survive if you aren’t thrown out of the vehicle. Seat belts are essential for securing a rider to their seat.  

Rigid safety cell

Unlike crumple zones, which are easily crushed to absorb an impact, the zone containing people is made of rigid stainless steel.  

Side-bar protection

Stainless-steel bars along the sides of vehicles absorb much of the impact from a side-on collision.  

Anti – lock braking

When drivers hit the brakes suddenly, the wheels can lock, causing the vehicle to skid. Anti-lock brakes help prevent that by rapidly applying and releasing the brakes until the vehicle comes to a stop, rather than slamming the brakes fully down.  

Crumple zone

The front and back of a car have crumple zones that extend outwards from the passenger cabin. During an impact, these areas predictably crumple up and absorb as much of the impact as possible. 

Air bags

When a sensor behind the dashboard detects a hard front-on impact, these bags inflate rapidly with nitrogen gas to cushion the driver and passengers. 

Safety glass

Instead of completely shattering when the car’s windshield glass breaks, the glass fragments stick to a strong layer of plastic between the car occupants and the window.  

How the latest smart technology can predict and prevent a road collision 

Lane-departure tracking

Cameras at the front of the car track the car’s position in a lane. If the vehicle moves out of the lane without the driver indicating, a warning signal alerts the driver to return to the correct position on the road.  

Emergency braking

Cameras and radar sensors at the front of the car detect when an object is too close to the moving vehicle. When this is the case, automatic emergency braking can be applied.  

Blind-spot monitoring

If a car is travelling in the adjacent lane in an area uncovered by mirrors, the car will alert the driver if they are about to make an unsafe lane change.   

Eye tracking

A small camera on the dashboard follows the movements of the driver’s eyes, as well as the rate and speed of blinking. If a driver shuts their eyes for too long or appears distracted from the road, an alert sound.  

Enhanced rear view

Cameras at the back of the vehicle can display a clear view of objects behind the car on a screen on the dashboard. When a driver is reversing, guidelines on the screen assist with positioning the car.   

 Also read: Hack your life: Practical tricks with tech

Smartphone saviours 

When a severe car crash occurs, injured occupants may rely on nearby witnesses to call emergency services. But what happens if a crash takes place on a deserted road and the car’s occupants are unresponsive? Many modern smartphones now come equipped with crash-detection technology that uses data such as the speed at which the phone is travelling, sound levels and pressure changes to deduce that a car accident may have occurred.  

The iPhone 14 and latest Google Pixel phones will play an alarm whenever data suggests that there has been a crash and automatically send an alert to emergency services. If it is a false alarm, the phone owner can swipe to disable the alert, but in a legitimate emergency situation, the device will share the location with first responders so that there can be a speedy response and a higher chance of survival for those involved. 

Also read: Why electronic devices employ tech for eye tracking

The post How tech can predict, prevent and assist in accidents appeared first on TFG Media.