Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Advertising A Driving School

In the United States, a driving school is an important part in getting a driver's license for the first time or after the suspension and revocation, pulling some insurance cuts, and maybe some filing up some knowledge for possible license upgrade (as in case with the CDL endorsements). Driving education has taken root in the heart of the car driving system of the Americans; that it has become a necessity.
Truth be told, not all states are requiring drivers to take a driving education course from a driving school. But the importance of driving education does not extend only in getting the license but also in other aspects that may involve the car, say auto insurance.
Instituting a driving school is not that hard. All you need to have is a place that can cater your office and the classrooms with the instructional facilities that are needed, plus the driving facilities that is required in practical driving. If the state's Department of Transportation approves the establishment of the driving school, it is the time to make it big.
Marketing is a major concern of a driving school. It is necessary for the driving school to be fully recognized known by the people, otherwise getting students is far-fetched idea. Advertising is the key to consumers as in any other business. Whether you like it or not, you need to carve a nest among consumer to improve your market share.
Radio and TV. If you have a sizable start-up investment, it would be nice to advertise in television programs and radio shows. You just need to choose programs and shows that are targeted to the segmented members of your consumer.
Print Media and Signage. Yellow pages and newspapers are important part of advertising. It is a good thing to pass adverts on various newspapers in your area. It will help to reach the populace within your area the fastest way, plus there is no waste or hash fall in advertising because the newspaper is catering the geographically segmented members of the consumer.
Massive overhaul of the signage can also help. It would be a hassle and bother for customers to look for the driving school. With the aid of the visible and clear signage, you will be able to convey the driving education programs that are offered by the driving school.
Internet. A driving school should have a website to help inform the public. Plus, most consumers wanted the establishment they are patronizing to have a website that will speak for it. Development of the website is easy and there is not much investment to be made.
On the other hand, you may also publish or make accounts in the social networking sites about the driving education program that is offered by the school. Social networks are attracting millions of web users everyday and the locales in your area may search for that demand and service of a driving school through these social networks. It is also good to advertise through the free classified ad sites. These sites will allow you to post an advert for the driving school.
Lastly, you may advertise through the listing sites. Wanna drive, for instance, is a driving school listing site that caters the number of schools that are in your area. Listing sites have the copy of the schools that are operating in the nearest area. It will also help you to know more about the driving school.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

How to Choose Between Refrigerated Vans, Trucks and Reefer Trailers

Refrigerated vans are not only a very helpful way to transport products, but also a nice method to start a profitable business. Either way, you should find out more about these vans. It will assist you better to recognize how they can help people.
You should know for the very start that buying refrigerated vans will charge you a lot, and the prices vary between $38,000 and $78,000. These values are for new vans, but it's pretty much the only choice you've got, if you want to make sure you get a quality product. By purchasing a second-hand van, you risk a lot and on the long run, the money saved here will be lost on repairs and other nuisances.
Refrigerated trucks are huge trucks, and if you're just starting out and you don't know how well your business is going to do, it would be better to invest in a small trailer, such as a reefer trailer. Much cheaper than a regular truck, this trailer also has the advantage of being cheaper to insure. This will keep you initial venture to a minimum, while you see how things go.
Reefer trailers are not hard to find if you want to buy one, but choosing one is a bit of a challenge. Positive testimonials and low energy consumption are two of the things you should be looking for, when buying or renting such a van. If you are pointed into the right direction, you'll have no problem in finding the right prices to either rent or buy such vehicles.
One more advantage that reefer trailers have is the fact that they can be easily detached from the main vehicle and that vehicle will be able to perform other tasks. So simply tow the trailer to its destination, leave it there, do your business, and then come back to get it! When your business is just starting out, and you need your vehicles in different places during the day, there's nothing better than being able to do so!
A refrigerated van on the other hand offers much more space. However, do you really need all that space? You may not need all of it, and you may not use it, but you're certainly paying for it. If you know that you won't have items to take up all the space, and you think this won't change in the near future, then there's no point in investing in a large van.
Choosing between a refrigerated truck and a reefer trailer is a very vital decision and once it is made it will have a major impact on your business. If you need the additional space than a truck is the best choice, while if you need the resources for something else, go for the latter with no hesitations.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Personalised Number Plates

Discover the Benefits of Buying and Selling Personalised Number Plates
At one time, buying personalised number plates was just for fun. Now, buying a personalised number plate is popular with individuals, business owners, and investors.
Individuals want to make their car unique by purchasing a personalised plate that reflects their identity or sends a message. Business owners have realized that buying a personalised plate helps them with marketing their brand. Investors are well aware that buying and selling rare personalised number plates can be a lucrative business.
If you are considering investing in personalised number plates, remember these three tips:
1. Choose a number that is not specific, but rather will appeal to a broader market.
2. Before you purchase a personalised number plate, check the market to determine the prices of similar plates.
3. If you buy the plate from a dealer, there is a possibility there will be a decline in the value after your purchase.
For the investor, the target market consists of individuals, businesses, and collectors. Collectors are either individuals or companies specialising in collecting memorabilia.
Investors should perform a thorough research process before purchasing a personalised number plate. As previously stated, this business has proven to be a great investment vehicle for investors to generate a high rate of return. Obviously, the more rare the plate, the more money it will bring at auction.
The autoblog reports that a father purchased a number plate for his five week old son for £17,000. He purchased 1 HFH at an auction and intends to keep the plate and pass it along to his son.
In 2008, F1, a personalised plate issued between 1904-1915 sold in 2008 for an astounding price of £440,625.
Remember the economics of supply and demand. They will serve you well as an investor in this market. The F1 was definitely unique (no supply), however, the demand was high. This plate appealed to a wide variety of potential buyers, including automobile dealerships, plate dealers, private investors, and individuals.
Some years ago, a gentleman purchased PAYPAL on eBay for $350. He also purchased FACEBK for $500. This individual knows that his investment will appreciate over time. In addition to the saleability, unique plates like this also document the value of branding. This concept holds true with any business trying to enhance its brand.
Individuals looking for a specific personalised number plate may very well be prepared to pay to have what they want. It could be that someone wants a specific plate to commemorate a special event in their lives and remember: people buy on emotion and justify their purchases with logic.
Businesses wanting to promote their brand can stand above the competition by buying personalised number plates that reflect their business or brand. When people are stuck in traffic and a commercial vehicle is in front of them with a memorable plate, there's a good chance they will remember it. Savvy business owners know the value of branding and are willing to pay a fair market price because they know that the campaign will result in increased revenue.
Another example of branding is used by a leading Brand in the UK. A delivery van displays the personalised plate, "No. 5," representing the perfume Number 5, one of the most popular branded perfumes. You can bet people notice the delivery van after seeing the personalised plate.
Purchasing a personalised plate provides a unique opportunity for recognition. Businesses from plumbers, electricians, furniture delivery services, food delivery companies, and more are able to take advantage of this marketing campaign that sets them apart from their competition.
In summary, a personalised plate can be a great way for an individual to establish his identity or personality, for a business owner to enhance his brand, and for an investor who is smart enough to buy plates that will increase in value.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

How To Choose The Right Hubcaps For Your Car

Hubcaps are fun to look at. There are so many different shapes and finishes to play with it would make your head spin. Now the fun part is based solely on you. When you find the set of hubcaps that is calling your name there is no denying the instant attraction. But is it all about looks and do you really need hubcaps?
The first question is who needs hubcaps? The easy answer is every driver who tries to stay within his or her budget. Some people love the look of flashy rims but others want the best of both worlds, the look of rims without the high price tag. Online car accessory retailers love people cater to people who are financially responsible but who won't sacrifice an ounce of their personal style.
A great set of hubcaps can make an unmistakable fashion statement and can make any car stand out in a crowd. Some people go for the chrome while others prefer the sleek almost scary black hubcaps that look like they were birthed from the darkest part of the ocean. Some designs are simple and understated for the business professional, while others look like they want to transform before your very eyes and are perfect for the bold and daring. Still others prefer the classic chrome in modern shapes. Other abstract or free form designs seem as though they were fashioned with alien technology and sensibilities. In any case the tastes represented are wide and varied.
In the case of hubcaps size actually matters, in fact, it's extremely important. After you figure out the style or look your want to give your ride its vital to get the correct measurement of the hubcap you will need. At this point most people will want to bring out the measuring tape and line it up against the round tire but this is a mistake. The only way to find out the size of your wheel cover is to verify the size of your tires. If you check the sides of your tire you will see a long code that ends in the letter "R" and another number. So if you see, for example, a code ending in R14 it means that you need 14" hubcaps for your car. The code R15 corresponds to 15", R16 corresponds to 16" and so on.
Online retailers now offer the largest variety of sizes imaginable so you can get even the elusive 13" hubcaps for your car. What's more they come in many finishes and materials. Although many car buffs may have a preference for chrome, chrome and more chrome all over their cars, others may fall in love with the modern look of the sleek black hubcaps that are growing in popularity. So don't hold back you can express yourself with any look you want without breaking the bank.

Friday, July 6, 2012

What Is MOT Test and What Aspects Are Included in the Process

Exams, most people try to shy away from this dreaded word. Before a person can mature into adulthood, he or she would need to go through a myriad of different tests. From elementary school to high school to a bachelor's degree, a person would need to accredit themselves before they face the real world. These exams test the credentials of an individual; whether are they fit enough for their own desires. Widen the scope and what do we have; the same test but only this time, it applies to vehicles commuting along the road.
Just like any other person, a vehicle needs to fulfill certain benchmark and standards before being considered roadworthy. In the United Kingdom, the MOT (Ministry of Transport) gauges the road-worthiness. A vehicle has to meet road safety regulations and also environmental standards before being deemed roadworthy. Therefore if your vehicle lacks a certain degree of safety features, or it exceeds legitimate emission levels, then your vehicle might have been illegitimate on the road all this while.
The purpose of all exams basically revolves around the same principles; accreditation and recognition. An accountant would only be recognized as a professional once he receives his chartered accreditation. The same goes to a vehicle; if it passes the MOT test, then a certificate would accredit that vehicle to be, at that time, roadworthy by law. The first MOT test must be conducted on a vehicle three years into its useful life. The issued certificate only encompasses the general road-worthiness of a car and it does not include specific mechanical attributes of your vehicle. Therefore the condition of your engine, clutch and gearbox would be disregarded for the test.
The MOT test takes into consideration the following aspects of your vehicle:
• General vehicle structure and appliances: Vehicles must be of presentable structure with no corrosive damage which may result in accidental injuries. A vehicles speedometer as well as engine mountings are also taken into consideration.
• General driver appliances: For the driver, seat-belts must be properly functioning to meet MOT requirements. Airbags must also be in place for safety precautionary measures. A vehicle must also have a minimum number of driving mirrors to ensure proper driving and safety precautions.
• Brakes, tires and wheels: A good and safe car runs on four perfectly oiled and aligned wheels. Condition of the tire such as tire size and treading is inspected with the MOT test. The brakes must be function properly to be considered for accreditation. Additional modifications such as ABS or Electronic Stability Control (ESC) would not constitute part of the inspection although it adds to the overall performance of a vehicle.
A whole lot more
The MOT test inspects the very details of a vehicle, ranging from the wipers and windscreen to the steering and suspension of a vehicle. If a test such as this takes into consideration the type of honk that you use, then you can have a fair idea how serious MOT takes it.
Where and how to take the test
Considering the severity of the test, there are numerous outlets available across the UK to take it. As of now, there are roughly 19000 certified outlets that carry out the MOT inspection for your vehicle. The maximum pricing of such a test is exhibited on a visual media displayed at each outlets, however the exact price that each outlet charges can vary depending on its location. Taking the test is as straight forward as driving your car into a car wash. All you have to do is visit the outlet and authorized personnel would inspect your car using a myriad of different instruments. All these inspections and instruments are explained and illustrated in a user manual that the respective outlet provides.
In a worst case scenario situation; should your car fail the MOT test, then you would get a failure document as opposed to the MOT certificate. The document will explain in specific detail on the outcome with reference to the aforementioned user manual. For those who fail the test, it is advised for them to make the necessary adjustments required to deem their vehicle roadworthy.
It's only going to get tougher
With a crackdown of illegitimate vehicles on the road, authorities have proposed to make the MOT test tougher by imposing stricter requirements. These new regulations are imposed to ensure that all vehicles are roadworthy before they plow through the streets. If you do not want to subject yourselves to tougher vehicle regulations, then do yourself a favor and visit an MOT authorized outlet tomorrow to have your vehicle tested.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

How to Help a Learner Driver Practice Driving

Driving lessons are expensive, but quite a lot of time is spent simply trying to polish a new skill. Just like anything else in life, learning to control a car in a variety of situations takes practice. Practicing in a private car cuts down on the amount of lessons you have to pay out for and can help you pass the driving test sooner.
It is relatively cheap and easy for a learner driver to practice driving even if they do not have a car of their own. A parent, other relative or friend's car can be insured by the learner for around £3 a day and the range of cars that can be covered is quite surprising - cars up to the value of £20,000 and up to insurance group 40 are included. The insurance becomes invalid as soon as the test is passed, and is only a (relatively) low premium as the learner has to be accompanied by an experienced driver.
The rules are that you have to have L plates on the front and rear of the car, and the accompanying driver must be over 21 and have held a full driving licence for three years and will be considered to be in control of the car. As such, any one driving with a learner must follow the same rules as if they were driving, for example, they must not be over the alcohol limit, nor be using a mobile phone.
Before starting practice driving it's best to have a few lessons with a qualified instructor first as s/he will be using a dual control car. The instructor will know when the pupil is ready to drive in car with normal controls. It's best to speak to the instructor after the lessons to get an idea of the kind of things needing to be worked on, for example, reversing round corners or navigating roundabouts, so this can be given attention prior to the next lesson.
There is no reason why the learner cannot drive everywhere and anywhere taking every opportunity to gain experience - only motorways are forbidden for cars with L Plates. Trips to the local supermarket are great places for practicing parking! Driving to work/college/school for extra experience is also very good, as are longer trips out. Depending on the experience gained new towns with different junction layouts are good although the learner may need to be helped with lane control.
As an accompanying driver you need to support, help out with directions, look out for cars and hazards the learner hasn't noticed, and think of road situations which might challenge him or her. Junctions with hill starts are a good example. Your role is not, however, to teach. Never contradict what the instructor has taught. If you disagree with something, speak to the instructor at the next lesson. Ways of driving have changed, and you will confuse matters if you try to suggest driving as you were taught (unless it was very recently) or worse still, pass on bad habits you've picked up without being aware of it.
Keeping calm is very important, especially if you are helping your son or daughter learn to drive. You don't want them to loose confidence, so try to keep any criticism to a minimum and keep discussions to when you've safely arrived home again.
Accompanying a learner driver is not easy, but the more hours on the road they can put in before passing their test, the more experiences and hazards they will have come across which will make them a better driver once they have passed their test and set out on their own for the first time.
Another important factor is that you will have experienced their driving ability, which will hopefully give you peace of mind when you eventually see them take off the L plates and disappear down the road unaccompanied.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Range-Topping 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited Live at the Chicago Auto Show

After its previous appearance in a Super Bowl spot with a Motley-Crue-inspired theme, the 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited made its official launch at the Chicago auto show as a range-topping model included on this year's mid-sized Optima line-up.
Upon its debut, a lot of car experts, automotive journalists, and observers at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show noticed that the 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited is not just an ordinary Optima. In fact, these individuals have suspected that the Limited is fully loaded with a lot of features not found on its siblings. As time goes by, these suspicions were eventually proven to be true.
Compared to the other Kia Optima trims, the Limited flaunts a unique look and more intimidating stance. These characteristics were highlighted by the Limited's new fascias in front and rear. In addition to this, the LED running lights located on top of its fog lamps, the lower door sills, and the rear spoiler tipped with chrome further suggest that the Optima SX Limited is very much different from its siblings.
Under the hood, the Limited is powered by a 2.0-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine sourced from the Kia Optima SX. This engine is capable of producing 274 horses and 269 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission as well as the sport-tuned suspension used on the Limited was also sourced from the SX. Due to this, the Limited's fuel economy ratings of 22 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway are similar to that of the Optima SX.
When viewed inside, the 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited looks more upscale compared to the other Optima models included on the line-up. The Limited's cabin provides a more elegant and prestigious feel. Its door trim, shift knob, and steering wheel are adorned by genuine would trim and this layout further improves the overall appearance of the Optima SX Limited. In addition to this, the door panels, center console and seats were embellished by Nappa leather.
On top of these, the 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited is offered with the standard equipments such as the paddle shifters on the steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and heated and cooled front seats. Aside from those, the SX Limited is also equipped with metal pedals, Infinity audio system with speakers, and a navigation system with a built-in back-up camera.
Due to the abundance of standard features included on the vehicle, the 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited became one of the most admired vehicles that were presented at the 2012 Chicago auto show. In addition to this, a lot of individuals that were able to take a closer look at the vehicle agree that this was probably the best vehicle that Kia has produced.