We think we use our cars almost all the time, but the data actually says otherwise. In fact, the average car is parked for 95% of its life, which means that the average car is used more than half of the time.

There are some cool things that can be done with self-driving cars, like making your car work for you, but that probably won't happen until the 2030s. In today's world, you sleep, work, spend time with your family, go to races, etc., and your car just stands still. In fact, the maximum you spend at home is 12-15 hours every night.

Now imagine that while you are sleeping, someone can fill up your car the next day, so that when you put the car down in the morning, the tank will always be full. It's a crazy idea for a gas car, but doable for an electric car. Connect the current during the night and fully charge it the next day. In this scenario, there is no need to refuel in 4-5 minutes; you may not even need to refuel after 4-5 hours. A Level 2 charger can fully charge a Tesla 300 miles in 8-12 hours (and most likely won't do about 300 miles in a day). The fact is, with modern Level 2 chargers, you can easily plug into a wall outlet at the end of the day and be fully charged, regardless of the distance covered the day before.

You don't really go as far as you think

For some reason, we tend to overestimate the distance travelled. It could be the time we spend on the move, or the fact that we don't perceive distance at all, but again, the evidence is in the data. After all, the average American drives about 40 miles a day. That's all. Simply put, electric vehicles are great for everyday driving.

And it won't stop: as electric vehicle technology advances, lower autonomous vehicles will soon begin to disappear. 

Tesla brought back the journey

While EVs can handle almost all driving needs and suffer on long trips, 300 miles is sufficient, this doesn't cover trips to many states and Level 2 chargers aren't ideal in such scenarios.

By fully charging a car in 30-45 minutes and planning to increase that rate in the near future, the Supercharger Network has virtually eliminated the long distance problem.While these stations currently cater to Tesla drivers (although this may change in the future), many other companies want to fill this gap, and that's not counting the $2 billion that Volkswagen is investing in creating a single national charging network. In other words, soon everyone will be able to use electric vehicles like Tesla owners.

The Impact of Parking Lot Congestion on Your Vehicle Health

As car enthusiasts, we love driving and cruising around town. But one of the biggest challenges we face is finding a parking spot once we reach our destination. Parking lot congestion is a common problem in urban areas, and it can have a significant impact on your vehicle health. In this blog post, we'll explore the ways in which parking lot congestion can affect your car and what you can do about it.

The Effects of Parking Lot Congestion on Your Car

Here are some of the negative effects that parking lot congestion can have on your vehicle:

• Increased wear and tear on the engine and transmission
• Reduced fuel efficiency due to constant stop-and-go traffic
• Excessive idling that can harm your engine's long-term health
• Increased risk of fender benders and collisions
• Stress on your car's suspension and brakes

How to Protect Your Vehicle from Parking Lot Congestion

If you want to keep your car in top condition, here are some tips to help you avoid the negative effects of parking lot congestion:

• Avoid peak hours when parking lots are most crowded
• Choose a parking spot that's away from high traffic areas
• Turn off your engine when you're waiting in line or parked for an extended period
• Drive slowly and carefully to reduce the risk of collisions
• Regularly maintain your car's brakes, suspension, and engine

The Bottom Line: Why Parking Lot Congestion Matters

Parking lot congestion is not just an inconvenience; it can also have a lasting impact on your vehicle. From increased wear and tear on the engine to reduced fuel efficiency, parking lot congestion can cause significant damage to your car if you're not careful. By following the tips we've outlined above, you can protect your car and keep it in top condition for years to come.

From Sun Damage to Theft: The Risks Your Car Faces in a Parking Lot

When it comes to parking your car in a lot, it may seem like a simple task. But little do you know, it puts your vehicle at risk of various dangers. From taking a stroll in a nearby mall to having a night out at the pub, we all have to give consideration to ensure our beloved rides remain safe. In this article, we will look at the various risks and threats vehicles encounter parked in parking lots.

Sun Damage Risks

If you happen to park your car in an outdoor lot, long exposure to the hot sun can end up causing damage. The UV rays can dry out any leather in your car, damage your car's paint, and cause your dashboard to crack.

Key Takeaway:

• Shade your car from the sun by parking it under a leafy tree or investing in a sunshade
• Opt for covered parking lots to reduce sun damage risks

Theft Risks

Car theft is another significant threat in parking lots. Thieves take advantage of cars left unattended in these areas, making it an easy target. Thefts of tires, catalytic converters, stereo systems, and other car accessories occur, leaving car owners with repair bills worth thousands of dollars.

Key Takeaway:

• Choose parking spots with security cameras or attendants present
• Ensure your car is locked, and all windows are closed
• Invest in an alarm system to deter thieves

Damage from Other Cars and Accidents

It's not just thieves who pose a threat to your vehicle in parking lots - other drivers can cause expensive damage too. Depending on where you park, careless drivers will not pay attention and end up scratching, denting, or bumping into your car.

Key Takeaway:

• Park in an area where there are fewer cars to reduce the risk of collision
• Park where it's easier to navigate in and out of the parking lot to avoid fender benders
• Invest in parking sensors or cameras to make sure surrounding drivers can spot your car

Weather Damage Risks

Weather can also be a threat to your car. Hail damage, for example, is common in some parts of the country, causing significant harm to your car's exterior.

Key Takeaway:

• Check weather forecasts before leaving your car exposed to the elements
• Invest in a car cover to protect your car from hail, wind, and other weather conditions

No-Parking Zones and Fines

Your car can also be at risk of attracting parking fines if you park in areas that aren't designated for parking. This can be frustrating and incredibly costly in some cases.

Key Takeaway:

• Ensure you're familiar with parking lot signs to avoid fines and towing fees
• Park in clearly marked parking spots to avoid fines and citations

Conclusion

Parking lots are risky places for vehicles, and there are no guarantees of safety, no matter how much you prepare. By taking necessary precautions like finding a spot with security monitoring, investing in a car cover, and mindful parking, you can reduce the chances of damage occurring and keeping your vehicle safe and secure.

Stay informed, stay safe.

Why Your Car is Going Nowhere Fast: The Surprising Statistics on Parking Lot Use

If you live in the United States and have a car, you might think of parking lots as a necessary part of life. But have you ever actually stopped to think about how much time you spend in them? If you haven’t, you might be surprised to learn that you spend an average of 17 hours a year looking for a parking spot, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to parking lot use. Here’s a closer look at the surprising statistics on parking lot use.

Parking Space Per Person

Did you know that there are almost three parking spaces per car in the United States? Considering that the average household in the U.S. owns two cars, that means there are almost six parking spaces for every household. But are all those parking spaces necessary?

• There are 800 million parking spaces in the U.S.
• That’s a total of 6,500 square miles of parking space.
• There are more than eight parking spaces for every car in the U.S.

Despite the abundance of parking spaces, the demand for parking often exceeds the supply, leading to overcrowded parking lots and a lot of time spent circling the lot in search of a spot.

The Cost of Parking

Not only is the search for parking frustrating, it can also be expensive. Here are a few statistics that might surprise you:

• It costs an average of $62 to park at an NFL stadium.
• The average monthly parking rate in Manhattan is $541.
• In San Francisco, it can cost up to $8 an hour to park in some areas.

As you can see, the cost of parking can add up quickly, especially in urban areas where parking is at a premium.

Alternative Modes of Transportation

Given the high cost of parking and the amount of time spent searching for parking spots, it’s no wonder that more and more people are turning to alternative modes of transportation. Here are a few statistics that demonstrate this trend:

• In 2019, there were 84.5 million bike riders in the U.S.
• The number of bikeshare trips in the U.S. increased from 320,000 in 2010 to 38 million in 2018.
• In 2018, there were 84,000 electric vehicles registered in California.

While alternative modes of transportation may not be feasible for everyone, they are becoming an increasingly popular option for people looking to save time and money on parking.

The Environmental Impact of Parking Lots

In addition to the financial costs of parking, there are also environmental costs to consider. Here are a few statistics that highlight the impact of parking on the environment:

• There are 63 acres of parking space for every square mile of urban land in the U.S.
• In some cities, parking lots cover as much as 30% of the land area.
• Parking lots are a major contributor to urban heat islands, which can lead to higher energy consumption and air pollution.

Given the impact of parking on the environment, it’s worth considering alternative modes of transportation, such as public transportation or biking.

Key Takeaways

Here are a few key takeaways from the statistics on parking lot use:

• There are almost three parking spaces per car in the U.S.
• The cost of parking can be significant, especially in urban areas.
• Alternative modes of transportation are becoming increasingly popular.
• Parking lots have a significant environmental impact.

So next time you’re circling the parking lot, frustrated and running late, remember that you’re not alone. But also remember that there are alternative modes of transportation that can save you time, money, and help reduce your impact on the environment.

Is Passive Parking Aging Your Vehicle? How You Can Help Your Car Stay Active and Reliable

As a car owner, you have probably noticed that your vehicle ages not only with the mileage, but also with the passage of time. One of the main culprits of vehicle aging is passive parking, which can result in a variety of damages, including flat tires, dead batteries, rust, and even engine problems. However, there are several steps you can take to help your car stay active and reliable, even when it is parked for extended periods of time. In this article, we will explore some of the ways you can prevent passive parking from aging your vehicle, and keep your ride in top shape for longer.

What is Passive Parking?

Passive parking refers to the practice of leaving your car parked and not using it for extended periods of time, usually more than a few days. Passive parking can occur when you go on vacation, when you work from home, or when you have another vehicle that you use as your primary means of transportation. Passive parking can cause several problems for your car, including:

• Battery Drain: When you leave your car parked for long periods of time, the battery may discharge, leaving you with a dead battery when you try to start your car again.
• Tire Flat Spots: When your car sits in the same position for days or weeks, the weight of the car can cause flat spots on your tires, which can result in vibration and even tire damage.
• Rust: When your car is parked for long periods of time, moisture can build up in various areas of the car, leading to rust and corrosion.
• Engine Problems: When your car sits idly for long periods of time, the oil in the engine can settle and thicken, leading to engine problems when you start your car again.

How Can You Prevent Passive Parking from Aging Your Vehicle?

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent passive parking from aging your vehicle, such as:

• Use a Battery Tender: A battery tender is a device that you can connect to your car's battery to keep it charged and prevent it from discharging when you are not using your car. Battery tenders are affordable and easy to use, and can save you from the hassle of dealing with a dead battery.
• Keep Your Tires Inflated: To prevent tire flat spots, make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure before you park your car. You can also consider using tire cushions or moving your car a few feet periodically to prevent flat spots from forming.
• Store Your Car in a Dry Place: Moisture is the main enemy of your car's body and engine, so try to store your car in a dry place, such as a garage or a covered carport. If you don't have access to a covered parking spot, you can use a car cover to protect your car from rain, snow, and other elements.
• Change Your Oil: If you are planning to leave your car parked for more than three months, it is recommended that you change the oil in your engine before doing so. Fresh oil will help lubricate your engine and prevent it from aging prematurely.

Key Takeaways

Passive parking can cause several problems for your car and lead to premature aging and reliability issues. However, by taking some simple steps, you can prevent passive parking from aging your vehicle and keep it active and reliable for longer. Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• Passive parking can cause battery drain, tire flat spots, rust, and engine problems in your car.
• You can prevent passive parking from aging your vehicle by using a battery tender, keeping your tires inflated, storing your car in a dry place, and changing your oil before prolonged parking.
• By taking care of your car, you can extend its lifespan and save money on repairs and maintenance in the long run.

Conclusion

Your car is a valuable asset that requires proper maintenance and care to stay active and reliable. Passive parking can cause your car to age prematurely and lead to various reliability issues, but by taking some simple steps, you can prevent this from happening and enjoy your ride for longer. Whether you are going on vacation or working from home, remember to keep your car in good shape and it will reward you with years of trouble-free driving.

The Hidden Costs of Parking: How It Affects Your Car Longevity and Value

Hey ya'll! Are you familiar with the term "carmageddon?" If not, it refers to the chaos caused by the heavy traffic and lack of parking spots in urban areas. As a tech-savvy driver, you might think that the only cost of parking is the hourly or daily fee you pay. But, do you know that parking can have a significant impact on your car's longevity and value?

The Costs of Parking:

Let's dive into the reasons why regular parking or leaving your car for a long time in one place may lead to reduced longevity and car depreciation:

• UV Rays: When you park your car in an open space or under direct sunlight, the harmful UV rays can damage the exterior paint over time. This could lead to ugly cracks or even rust spots if left untreated.
• Bird Droppings and Tree Saps: Erratic birds can cause real damage to your car. Their droppings contain chemicals that can erode your car's paint and leave permanent stains if not cleaned immediately. Similarly, tree saps can be really hard to remove, leaving residue that can also wear away the paint.
• Dirt Buildup: A parked car is prone to trapping dirt, dust, and debris. Dirt particles can accumulate on your windshields, grille, and radiator, causing heating and cooling system problems, engine failure, and difficult driving. Additionally, the dirt can begin to fill the small crevices of your car and cause corrosion, eventually leading to rust.
• Flat Tires: Ideally, your car should be driven at least once a week. When you don't drive your car, the parking spot becomes a prime location for a flat tire from all the pressure being put on the same spot on the tire. And, if you have a flat tire, you're more likely to need a replacement, which can be costly.

Long-Term Parking and Car Depreciation:

Let's say you're going on a long trip, and you plan on leaving your car at the airport. This seems like a perfectly logical thing to do, but do you know that long-term parking can actually affect your car's value?

• Battery Life Drain: When you leave your car idle for an extended period of time, the battery will eventually drain. And once it's dead, it may be difficult to recharge, and you'll have to invest in a replacement battery.
• Tire Damage: In addition to the risk of flat tires, prolonged parking can also lead to tire cracks or deformation, which can compromise the tire wall integrity and affect your driving performance.
• Fluid Leaks: When you park your car for a long period of time, fluids such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid can settle in the bottom of their containers, leading to leaks when you finally start driving again. And of course, your car will also be more likely to run low on many fluids, as they will naturally evaporate over time.
• Electronic Components Malfunction: Your car's electronic components, such as the engine control unit, may malfunction due to long periods of inactivity. The longer you let your car sit unused, the greater the chance of components failure.

Key Takeaway:

Let's sum up some key takeaways from this article:

• Regular parking and long-term parking can lead to major issues such as tire damage, battery drain, and electronic components malfunction.
• Dirt, bird droppings, tree saps, and UV rays can cause damage to the exterior of your car, leading to depreciation and rust on the body and frame of the car as well as to the paintwork.
• It’s important to clean your car regularly and drive it for a few minutes once a week to prevent many of these issues.

So, folks, the next time you leave your car parked for an extended amount of time, just remember, it might be costing you more than just the parking fee. Drive safe, and until next time, stay tech-savvy!