Nationwide Vehicle Contracts lists some must-have accessories and gadgets for winter driving
As the temperature plummets and the first snowflakes start to fall, it's time to prepare your car for the winter season. While braving the icy roads and treacherous weather can be a daunting prospect, there are a number of innovative gadgets that can make winter driving more comfortable and secure.
Heated Seats
Heated seats are a godsend for winter drivers, providing much-needed warmth on those chilly mornings. These luxurious seats subtly warm the driver and front passenger seats, alleviating the discomfort caused by the cold. They are particularly beneficial for those with circulation problems or those who feel the cold more intensely.
Benefits:
- Enhance warmth and comfort during winter driving
- Prevent stiff muscles and circulation problems
- Reduce fatigue and improve concentration
- Can be used year-round to alleviate mild discomfort
Snow Chains
Snow chains are essential for tackling treacherous winter roads and ensuring safe passage through snow-covered landscapes. These rugged attachments provide extra grip and traction, preventing your tires from slipping and sliding on ice and snow.
Benefits:
- Increase traction and stability on snowy or icy roads
- Enhance control and prevent skidding
- Reduce the risk of getting stuck or sliding off the road
- Suitable for both front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles
Windshield De-Icer
A windshield de-icer is a lifesaver when faced with frost-covered windshields and icy windows. This handy device sprays a heated mist onto the glass, quickly melting away ice and snow, allowing for clear visibility and safe driving.
Benefits:
- Rapidly de-ices windshields and windows in freezing conditions
- Prevents the need for fumbling with an ice scraper in the cold
- Ensures clear visibility and safe driving conditions
- Convenient and portable for use on the go
Portable Jump Starter
A portable jump starter is a must-have for any winter driver, providing a lifeline in the event of a flat battery. This compact device can deliver a powerful jolt of electricity to jump-start your car, saving you from the hassle of roadside assistance.
Benefits:
- Easily jump-starts a flat battery in any weather conditions
- Convenient and portable for use on the go
- Saves time and money by avoiding roadside assistance
- Can also be used to charge other electronic devices
Winter Tires
Winter tires are a significant investment in winter driving safety, offering exceptional traction and grip on snow and ice. These specialized tires feature unique tread patterns and rubber compounds that provide superior performance in harsh winter conditions.
Benefits:
- Dramatically reduce the risk of skids and accidents
- Enhance handling and control on snow and ice
- Improve braking performance on slippery surfaces
- Extend the life of your regular tires by preventing premature wear and tear
Basic winter driving tips
As the temperature dips and the roads turn icy, it's important to be prepared for winter driving conditions. Here are some basic tips to help you stay safe and avoid accidents:
- Check your car's readiness: Before heading out, ensure your car is in top condition for winter driving. Check your tire pressure, tread depth, and make sure your windshield wipers are in good working order. You should also have a full tank of gas, warm clothes, and emergency supplies in your car, such as a shovel, blankets, and a first aid kit.
- Drive slowly and steadily: Winter driving requires extra caution. Slow down and avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or turning. Give yourself plenty of extra space between you and the car in front of you to help you stop in time.
- Be aware of black ice: Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that can form on roads, especially in shaded areas. It's particularly dangerous because it's difficult to see. If you think you may be driving on black ice, slow down and carefully apply your brakes.
- Avoid hydroplaning: Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road due to water on the surface. To avoid hydroplaning, avoid driving too fast in wet or snowy conditions. If you start to hydroplane, don't panic. Steer gently in the direction you want to go and gently apply the brakes.
- Be extra vigilant at junctions and roundabouts: These areas can be particularly dangerous in winter due to ice and snow. Be extra cautious when approaching junctions and roundabouts, and make sure you signal your intentions clearly to other drivers.
By incorporating these innovative gadgets into your winter driving arsenal, you can transform your experience from a stressful ordeal into a safe and enjoyable journey. Remember, winter driving requires extra caution and preparedness, but with the right equipment and knowledge, you can navigate the icy roads with confidence and peace of mind.
For more information Christmas related, why not check out our Memorable Christmas Road Trips: Exploring Festive Destinations Perfect for the Holidays blog? We also produce a range of weekly blogs on various topics, which can be found in the blog section of our website.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's leading car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit every need. To find out more, check out our comprehensive car leasing guides or call one of our experts on 0345 811 9595.
