9th September 2021
Today is World EV day! An idea that's gaining ground in influencing the future of electromobility across the planet. We take a check on how we could live more sustainably and make a few changes to our lifestyles.
The JCB Group represents 14 manufacturer brands across its 30 sites in Kent and Sussex and all of these brands are acutely aware of the need for a major change in emphasis to build a sustainable future. The MD of the Volkswagen Group UK for example, pointed out that we need 1.7 planet earths to provide all the resources needed for the global population! Continuing with our current driving habits is clearly not a sustainable option and so the way individual mobility is developed needs to change to help preserve some of the world's resources.
Our manufacturer brands work at the highest level with the UK Government to comply with the ten point plan to 2030.
The motor industry is innovating to develop individual mobility solutions that are energy efficient, re-chargeable, re-cyclable and sustainable. Research and development investment is a key priority, coupled with working together with providers of the infrastructure services, such as charging station networks.
Already, our brand range has launched plug-in hybrid and self-charging hybrid vehicles to provide key transition routes to fully electric driving. The national network of charging points is developing fast, but fully electric vehicles may not be a practical solution for some customers as yet. Self-charging hybrid cars, such as the Kia Niro Self-Charging Hybrid, or the Honda CR-V Hybrid are a great way to change your driving habit away from pure ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles. Small steps, big difference.
If you are keen to go fully electric, then there is already a big choice available across our brand range. The de-carbonisation of the model line up on all brands means electric models are already on sale or in development. Most of our models are becoming available in an ICE version and a hybrid or all electric version alongside. For example the SEAT Leon and Leon e-HYBRID. Others are creating a completely new all electric model with fully connected functionality, such as the Volkswagen ID.3 and the SUV style Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen Group are even talking about cars that power your home! The future of e-mobility is exciting, dynamic and already underway. You can be sure that the JCB Group will be at the forefront of delivering innovative individual mobility solutions; both in the products available and the way you can access them. Whether you find e-mobility un-nerving or exciting, we will be with you every step of the way. Book a test drive in a fully electric or hybrid vehicle with us today.
Here are a few small changes that are small wins, but together we could all make a big difference!
Reduce waste, re-use, re-purpose things and recycle. This is probably the easiest route to being more eco-friendly. In addition to the council kerb-side collections, try using a composter in your garden. If you need to make a trip to the tip, offer to take your neighbours' stuff too.
Use cold water settings on washing machines to avoid the CO2 emissions associated with generating electricity to heat water. Try timing yourself in the shower - 4 minutes should be ample time for a daily shower. Switch to LED light bulbs and think about the number of lights you have on in a room at any one time. Try to water your garden plants sparingly and choose drought tolerant flowers and shrubs.
Pick a household energy supplier that uses renewable resources instead of fossil fuels. Shop around for the best deal.
A quarter of the heat in your home could be lost through the roof, so adding loft insulation of at least 270mm will help. Draft proofing your home and considering triple glazed windows next time you replace your glazing are other options.
Look at your commute to work or school and question if changes could be made? Could you work from home at least one day per week? Could you walk or cycle some days, or drive halfway and walk the rest (good for your health as well as the environment!). If driving is still the best option, then make sure your car or van is in good working order and well maintained through regular servicing and MOTs. MOTs automatically check emissions.
Choose locally sourced foods to minimise your 'food miles'. Try growing your own salad, vegetables and fruits. In the supermarket, use net bags instead of the single use plastic to bag up your loose fruit and veg. Find your local farmers' market. Take your own packed lunch into the office or school, using a re-usable box and water bottle, rather than single use plastics.
Choose products that are designed to be repaired rather than thrown away when they break. Choose quality products and clothes that will last. Try charity shops and online swaps, such as Gumtree or Vinted to recycle what you don't want anymore.
We hope these ideas have inspired you to look at life differently and make a few small changes to help save the world's resources!
For any advice on electric and hybrid driving, or to view and test drive cars or vans in our model range, please...
