Blog

And Now There’s Even More Features for 2021 that Make this Jaguar Luxury EV Even Better! The Jaguar I-PACE has already become the stuff of legends in the past few years, winning three major international car awards, including World Car of the Year. Now there’s even more to admire about this top Luxury EV thanks to a bevy of new features for 2021. For one, charging just got better and faster. All 2021 models of the I-PACE gain a new 11-kW onboard charger. (The older charger 7-kW). Connected to a 240-volt source new new charger will lower the charge time for a depleted battery from 12.6 hours to 8.6 hours, according to Jaguar. A 100-kw charger will add up to 78 miles over the same time. Also new for 2021, the I-PACE SUV now has a complimentary 4G data plan, a 360-degree camera system, and wireless charging. more Inside, there's a new infotainment system that's even easier to operate and includes a feature that tells you where the nearest charging stations are, how much it will cost and how long it should take to charge the battery. The I-PACE’s 90kWh battery warranty covers 8 years or 100,000 miles - whichever comes first. It is redeemable in the case of any manufacturing defect or should a certified Jaguar Retailer test it and find that the battery has dropped below a 70 percent State of Health. The I-PACE’s motor is very different from an internal combustion-engine. Instead of a gasoline or diesel engine, it features two lightweight and compact Synchronous Permanent Magnet Electric Motors. Both motors are up to 97 percent efficient when transferring power from the battery to the motor. By comparison, an internal combustion engine is typically only 30-40 percent efficient when producing power from fossil fuels. The engines were developed by Jaguar engineers who built upon knowledge collected from their experience producing Jaguar I-TYPE Formula E racing car. To deliver maximum power in the smallest possible footprint, the two Synchronous Permanent Magnet Electric Motors are axle-mounted and use concentric single speed transmissions. The motors are also positioned lower in the vehicle, contributing to the low center of gravity and enhancing I-PACE’s control, handling and agility, according to Jaguar. I-PACE’s electric motors are quieter and create fewer vibrations than conventional internal combustion engines – with none of the interruptions normally associated with gear changes, the automaker notes. They provide superior operating efficiency, torque delivery and respond immediately to your demands. Positioned as low as possible and right between the axles, I-PACE’s 90kWh battery is constructed of high energy density lithium-ion pouch cells. It’s designed for longevity and supports protracted periods of sustained maximum power. And each year, the cost of owning an I-PACE gets lower and lower. That’s partly because electricity costs less than petrol or diesel. You’ll get significant tax incentives too, including – if you live the Golden State - the California Clean Fuel Reward, which saves you $1,500 on your EV purchase.   And with no charges relating to congestion, emissions or parking in many cities, the benefits keep growing in 2021. If you opt for the mid-level Jaguar I-PACE SE in 2021 you gain 20-inch wheels, ultra bright LED headlights, a powered liftgate, and leather upholstery. The SE gives you upgraded driver assists, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Additionally, charging is getting much easier in 2021. With the majority of electric car charging done from home, you can more efficiently plan your time around the things you want to do. Simply recharge on an evening, and by morning you’ll be ready to go. With the 2021 I-PACE you also enjoy: ZERO TAILPIPE EMISSIONS Vehicles powered solely by a battery are able to achieve maximum power with zero tailpipe emissions. And with more renewable resources added to the National Grid all the time, electric car energy gets cleaner every year. A DISTINCTIVE DRIVE Electric technology is not only incredibly quiet, it’s able to deliver instant acceleration with no lag and no gearshift interruptions. This means a distinctively smooth and responsive driving experience at all speeds. VARYING CHARGING SPEEDS AT HOME 7kW AC home chargers will charge overnight from 12.75 hours. Or up to 35km (22 miles) of range from 60 minutes Domestic sockets will charge from 48 hours. Or up to 8km (5 miles) of range from 60 minutes. So What Factors Affect the Distance You Can Crive on the I-PACE? According to Jaguar, in an all-electric car, your battery is the single source of energy. As a result, your driving style, the features you use in your cabin, and even the conditions you drive in will influence your overall range. And you will save money.  Lower running costs, cheaper electricity rates compared to petrol and diesel, and significant tax incentives are just some of the ways that the move to all-electric can save you money every year, according to Jaguar. And the Jaguar I-PACE is covered by a comprehensive battery warranty of up to 8 years or 160,000km (100,000 miles) – whichever comes first. Your 2021 I-Pace seats five people in two rows in a cabin that is spacious and comfortable for most people. The contoured seats provide good support, both in the front and the back. The seats are mounted low, which limits knee room for long-limbed passengers hinders outward visibility for the driver. When it comes to cargo space, packing for longer trips is not a problem. The I-Pace has 25.3 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats, which expands to 51 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. There are several handy in-cabin storage spaces, including a deep center console separating the front seats. Under the hood, there's even a tiny compartment with just enough space for a small bag. Each Jaguar I-Pace comes with a ton of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, parking sensors all around the vehicle, a rearview camera, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a driver condition monitor, and traffic sign recognition, among other things. Do you get nervous when parallel parking in a tight spot? No problem. Park assist, which is standard, controls the steering to expertly navigate the I-Pace into a parallel or perpendicular parking space. You also have a clear exit monitor that alerts back-seat passengers to approaching obstacles, such as a bicyclist, before they open the door. Optional features include blind spot monitoring, high-speed automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, a surround-view parking camera system, and adaptive cruise control with steering assist. Like last year’s models, the 2021 Jaguar I-Pace comes in three trim levels: S, SE, and HSE. And you can also add optional features to your new I-Pace S without having to pay the whole price for a new trim. With the I-Pace S you get synthetic leather upholstery, eight-way power-adjustable front seats, a fixed panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and push-button start. The S also comes with a dual-screen infotainment system that features a 12.3-inch adaptive driver display, smartphone integration, a Meridian sound system, satellite radio, HD Radio, Bluetooth, six USB ports, three 12-volt outlets, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Bump up to the I-Pace SE trim for options like the power liftgate and 10-way power-adjustable front seats with memory settings and genuine leather upholstery. Blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, and high-speed automatic emergency braking are also part of the SE. The even-more-premiere HSE trim provides extra cabin comfort with genuine leather upholstery, heated and cooled front sports seats, heated rear seats, 18-way power-adjustable front seats, a hands-free liftgate, and a 15-speaker Meridian stereo. HSE also adds a surround-view parking camera system and many other features. The Jaguar all-electric I-PACE doesn’t disappoint when it comes to  luxury or adrenaline-pumping driving thrills. If you are looking for strong power output, impressive all-electric range and a bevy of standard this may very well be the car of your dreams. With a starting price of roughly $70,000 there are few electric cars that can match its all-electric power, driving dynamics and numerous features. So come in and drive one today! Contact our Jaguar dealerships today for more information and inventory: Visit Jaguar Rancho Mirage Visit Jaguar Riverside

Critics and Customers Agree that the Jaguar I-PACE is at the Top of the Electric Vehicle Pack for 2021 The Jaguar I-PACE is consistently ranked a top luxury electric SUV by critics and customers alike. The I-PACE has won more than 80 global awards, including 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year and World Green Car. All of this reinforces its status as one of the greatest EVs in the world. Let’s take a look at why everyone who drives the Jaguar I-PACE agrees this SUV is one of the best EVs on the market in 2021. more Five features that make the 2021 I-PACE great: Driveability The sophisticated, all-electric Jaguar I‑PACE is a nearly silent high-performance sportscar with zero tailpipe emissions. The I-PACE boasts not only impressive performance but excellent cornering abilities and adaptive suspension that makes the I-PACE highly capable and cushioned on and off the road. Thanks to thrilling handling and its strong yet quiet powertrain the Jaguar I-PACE delivers instant acceleration, getting you from zero to 60 in a mere 4.5 seconds and offering an impressive top speed of 112 mph. It also includes all-wheel drive as well as an adaptive air suspension that gives you a nice, cushioned ride for your day-to-day errands as well as longer road trips.  With two Jaguar-designed electric motors at each axle, producing outstanding combined performance of 400PS and 696Nm, aluminum construction and a low center of gravity, the I-PACE offers an unrivalled balance of all-wheel drive performance, refinement, luxury and agility – together with outstanding real-world range and day-to-day usability. Luxury It’s one of the most luxurious EVs on the market. The Jaguar I-PACE has an ultra-luxurious cabin, abundant cargo room and two rows seats that are comfortable for adults and children. Cabin air ionization with high-tech filtration captures ultrafine particles and allergens so you are not breathing them as you drive. The I-PACE can even filter cabin air while on charge before a journey. The Jaguar I-PACE’s stylish exterior is matched by its sleek and sophisticated cabin, which is roomy and filled with tech to make driving even more pleasurable. It’s base model also has environmentally friendly synthetic leather seats and a panoramic sunroof that lets the sunshine in. The I-PACE can be filled with many optional features that will delight you and your passengers including climate control with four zones, heated front and rear seats, sumptuous leather upholstery, and more. Tech It’s loaded with advanced tech and safety systems. Every I-PACE includes a touch-sensitive infotainment system with a 10.0-inch upper screen for audio and a 5.5-inch lower display for climate control. New-for-2021 software shows you the locations of charging stations along with their availability and  estimated charging time as well as cost. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot are supported. The 380-watt Meridian sound system comes standard. Audiophiles can opt an 825-watt unit. Battery and Range The I-PACE delivers an impressive 234-mile all-electric range. Every I-Pace features a 90.0-kWh battery pack that provides an EPA-rated driving range of 253 miles. The electric Jag includes a standard DC fast-charging port that allows 80 percent of its battery to be charged in 40 minutes. You will wait 8.6 hours to fully charge the battery using a 240-volt AC outlet. Jaguar upgraded the I-Pace's onboard charger from a 7.0-kW unit to one with 11.0 kilowatts in the last year. And as if that’s not enough this World Car of the Year winner includes these innovated touches that make it the perfect electric car, according to the Stratstone blog in England: The Jaguar I-PACE is able to pre-condition its battery while plugged-in even before you get in so that the range is maximized. It’s similar to letting a normal car warm up before driving off. The I-PACE will use its pre-conditioning abilities to bring the cabin up to a comfortable temperature that is perfect for you that day. There’s nothing like hopping into a cool cabin on a hot day. The Pivi Pro infotainment system complements the I-PACE because of how effective it is to use on a daily basis. Menus are easy to navigate and offer fast response to input with options that make it even more tailored to your personal needs. The 'Go I-PACE' Phone App allows you to get insight into how it would be for you to drive an electric vehicle by monitoring your journey throughout an average week. The app will tell you how many times you will need to charge throughout the week and then make route recommendations to maximize the range of the car. It will also tell you how much money can be saved by making the switch to an I-PACE. These are among the reasons the I-PACE is the first model ever to win three World Car titles in the 15-year history of the awards, according to Jaguar. It was awarded the World Car title at the New York International Auto Show by a panel of 86 motoring journalists from 24 countries. That honor came just weeks after it won European Car of Year title. Today it’s considered the most desirable premium electric vehicle (EV) in the world. Jaguar noted: I-PACE won 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year and World Green Car awards Jaguar’s all-electric performance SUV is the first vehicle to win three categories in the same year It’s the second member of Jaguar’s acclaimed PACE family to win World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year, following F-PACE’s victory in 2017. “It is an honor that the Jaguar I-PACE has received these three accolades from the prestigious World Car jurors. We started with an ideal, to move towards our Destination Zero vision: zero emissions, zero accidents and zero congestion. I-PACE is our first step to achieving this, and it was conceived when EVs were little more than a niche choice. So, we started from a clean sheet of paper to create a new benchmark - the world's best premium electric vehicle, and a true Jaguar driver's car. For I-PACE to be awarded 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year and World Green Car gives our first all-electric vehicle the ultimate recognition it deserves. I would like to thank the team who have created I-PACE for their passion in making it so outstanding.” – Dr. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive officer for Jaguar Land Rover. Summary: The Jaguar all-electric I-PACE doesn’t skimp on luxury or driving thrills. If you are seeking a strong power output, impressive all-electric range and a bevy of standard features that would be optional in other cars this may very well be the best choice for you. With a starting price of roughly $70,000 there are few electric cars that can match its all-electric power, driving dynamics and numerous features. So come into any one of our Jaguar dealerships and drive one today! Contact our Jaguar dealerships for more information and inventory: Visit Jaguar Rancho Mirage Visit Jaguar Riverside

In a Move that is sure to lead other automakers to follow suit, British car companies Jaguar and Bentley have announced they will be fully electric by 2030. Craving more luxury electric vehicles in the market? Well, earlier this year Bentley became the latest automaker to lay out plans for an all-electric fleet in the future. The century-old automaker Bentley is best known for high-performance — and gas thirsty — vehicles like the Bentayga SUV and Flying Spur sedan. By 2026, however, all of its products will be plug-based, whether in hybrid or battery-electric form, the company has revealed. Bentley’s announcement comes amid an accelerating shift by the global auto industry away from gas and diesel to battery power. It also reflects a transformation within the electrified vehicles segment. more UK automaker Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) said earlier this year that its Jaguar luxury brand will be 100 percent electric by 2025.  And its Land Rover brand will release its first all-electric vehicle in 2024, the first of six fully electric models planned for release over the next five years. It’s not just good for the environment and business - in some places it’s the law. Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin — some of the world’s largest markets for premium brands like Bentley — will soon ban automobiles that are not electric. The new crop of luxury electric vehicles takes advantage of the wheel-spinning torque that electric motors can deliver, as well as their near-silent sound. This is part of what has generated growing interest within the luxury market, especially as technology continues to improve. All of these factors have caused a growing number of high-end automakers to start laying out plans to add hybrids, plug-ins and EVs. Earlier this week, the CEO of Aston Martin announced plans to have at least 20 percent of its sales come from electrified products by 2024, with its first all-electric model to follow about two years later. Bentley’s lead competitor, Rolls-Royce, has also said it will begin shifting to electric propulsion. Bentley is in a good position to go all electric due to the fact that it is one of 12 brands owned by Volkswagen, which has laid out one of the industry’s most aggressive battery-car programs. VW will have at least 50 BEVs on sale by mid-decade, including luxury brands such as Porsche and Audi. JLR’s only fully luxury electric car to date is the Jaguar I-PACE SUV. The Jaguar I-PACE has been designed to ensure every step of the customer journey delivers peace of mind and makes owning an electric car as easy as possible. This electric car’s driver-focused technology and enhanced exterior design bring an even greater sense of luxury Jaguar’s electric car. From the new Atlast Gray grille tip finish and an enhanced paint palette, new range of wheels this is not your grandfather’s electric car! Jaguar set out to create the world’s most desirable electric vehicle and show what can happen when a top luxury brand works its magic on a once utilitarian category of car. It’s even better than before with a new state-of-the-art infotainment system, three-phase charging and other technology that benefits driver and passengers alike. Every change made to this model ensures it’s the benchmark of its class. There’s faster home charging: 11kW (AC) domestic wall box can add 53km/33miles of range (WLTP) per hour for customers with three-phase supplies. The I-PACE also offers outstanding performance and range: Acceleration from 0-60mph in just 4.5 (0-100km/h 4.8 seconds) seconds and up to 470km / 292 miles (WLTP). And even greater. JLR expects all Jaguars and 60 percent of Land Rovers to be zero-emissions vehicles by 2030. That’s the same year its home market-  the UK - will ban the sale of new internal combustion engine vehicles. It's a set ahead for luxury electric vehicles. JLR says it hopes to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2039. Bans of internal combustion engine vehicles have been announced in Norway by 2025, France by 2040, and California by 2035. The 100-year-old Bentley company said it would launch two plug-in hybrids next year as part of its "Beyond100" strategy to accelerate the development of electrified models. “Within a decade, Bentley will transform from a 100 year old luxury car company to a new, sustainable, wholly ethical role model for luxury,” Bentley Chief Executive Officer Adrian Hallmark said in a statement. Rolls-Royce first luxury electric vehicle is coming very soon. So stay tuned! Let us know if we can answer any questions about your EV of choice!

The BMW Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) are engineered to take your breath away, unleashing more driving fun as well as greater efficiency. It’s good for you, your pocketbook - and it’s good for the planet.  In fact, the 2020 BMW electrified fleet of vehicles is designed to give you more: Power and performance Everyday savings Zero-emissions driving Time savings by using HOV lanes. Intuitive drive modes automatically optimize efficiency by selecting the ideal combination of electric and gas power on drives of any length in your hybrid BMW. You can also choose to drive in all-electric mode within a certain range, or with the convenience of the combustion engine like a conventional BMW. more The electric range of a plug-in hybrid vehicle depends on the size of the battery, as well as the vehicle weight, aerodynamics, and tire type. In the case of 2020/2021 BMW plug-in hybrid electric cars, the EPA-rated electric ranges are: BMW X3 xDrive30e Sports Activity Vehicle®: 17 miles BMW X5 xDrive45e SAV: 30 miles BMW 330e / 330e xDrive Sedan: 22/20 miles BMW 530e / 530e xDrive Sedan: 20/18 miles BMW 745e xDrive Sedan: 16 miles The combined driving range when engaging both the electric motor and the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine is significantly higher and can be optimized based on driving and charging behavior. You get to experience a plug-in hybrid without compromising a bit of BMW prowess and performance. With both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, you get the best of both worlds: Pure electric for day-to-day driving, plus a powerful gasoline engine for longer trips. In other words, BMW Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles can be fully electric, fully gasoline or a thrilling combination of both. During stop-and-go-driving, around town and on your daily commute, the gasoline engine may never start when in electric mode. You can even drive in pure EV mode at highway speeds. And for stronger acceleration, the electric motor can boost the gasoline engine for impressive performance from a stop or when merging into traffic. With regular overnight charging at home, you’ll enjoy better overall mileage and fewer trips to the gas station. BMW plug-in hybrids can also charge while driving. Regenerative braking allows the plug-in hybrid to regain part of its energy. In addition, charging can also take place during the journey with the function known as Battery Control Mode. This mode maintains the charge of the high-voltage battery constantly at the desired level or increases it to the present value, by having the electric motor function as a generator. In this way, for example, it is possible to use Battery Control Mode during a drive on the highway to protect or even increase the electric power reserves so that a subsequent urban route can be covered with electric driving and without any local emissions. Even if you don’t have time to catch a charge, your PHEV will still get you where you need to go. When the battery is fully discharged, the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine automatically takes over. The combustion engine and electric motor can work independently or together for impressive performance and freedom from range anxiety. And you can stay connected to your plug-in hybrid at all times with your BMW Connected app, where you can manage charging status, locate charging stations, monitor your electrical consumption, and more right from your phone. Operate at peak performance and enhance the efficiency of your plug-in hybrid with BMW Charging: the advanced, comprehensive charging program that offers tailored solutions for both home and public charging. And it’s compatible with any outlet. You can grab a charge at any power outlet with the Occasional Use Cable, included as standard with every BMW plug-in hybrid.  Install a BMW i Wallbox in your home for fast charging between daily drives. And did you know that BMW’s partnership with EVgo gives you access to more than 35,000 Level 2 chargers nationwide through your BMW Charging app. And with the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, you can be assured that your plug-in hybrid has the range to get you where you want to go. With even more ways to lower overall ownership costs and additional incentives for increased convenience, living an electric lifestyle has never been easier. If you live in California be sure to read about the $1,500 credits for larger battery EVs here. And that is just one of the many perks to owning a BMW electric car or plug-in hybrid. You may be eligible for federal tax credits of up to $7,500, in addition to other state incentives such as rebates, tax credits, and grants. You could also save up to $1,500 in fuel costs within five years. Contact us today to learn more!

Thinking about buying a new car? You may have one more reason to go with an electric vehicle. Did you know you can save up to $1,500 on your EV purchase when you buy an eligible electric vehicle in 2021? And you may be able to combine that with existing incentives announced in the past several years. The California Clean Fuel Reward (CCFR) is now available to anyone who buys or leases a new electric vehicle with a battery capacity greater than 5 kWh.  While there are no income or location restrictions within California, you have to register your electric car in California and you must live here. The goal of the California Clean Fuel Reward is to put more electric vehicles on the streets for a carbon-neutral future. Carbon neutrality means having a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. It is essential to reduce carbon emissions in order to reach a state of climate neutrality. more It’s easy to obtain the reward. When you buy or lease an EV at an enrolled retailer in California, the retailer will simply include the reward in the transaction at the point of sale. The customer does not need to provide any paperwork or fill out any forms. At indiGO Auto Group we carry the best of the new generation of electric vehicles including: Porsche Taycan Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo BMW i3 Audi e-tron Premium Quattro V-W ID.4 Jaguar I-Pace Pacific Gas and Electric Company and other electric utilities have teamed up with the California Air Resources Board to offer the reward, which is even offered on a sliding scale depending on your car battery size. Discounts of  up to $1,500 are offered on cars with larger batteries that carry a bigger charging capacity. And, the incentive is also available on leased electric vehicles. Only vehicles purchased or leased from approved participating retailers are eligible. Learn more about fueling options around the state here. If you purchased your vehicle before your retailer was approved in the program or if you did not purchase at a participating retailer, you can visit your electric utility’s website or search Additional Incentives because you may still be eligible for rewards. You can view additional California Clean Fuel Reward program rules here. “The goal of the program is to accelerate the number of electric vehicles on California’s roads and highways,” said CARB Vice-Chair Sandy Berg.  “The instant point-of-sale price reduction of up to $1,500 will help make these ultra-clean cars more affordable, especially for low-income families or those living in disadvantaged communities.” So far, more than 20 cars from 15 manufacturers are eligible for the reward including 2021 models eligible to receive the full $1,500. Moreover, the CCFR can be combined with existing post-sale federal, state and local incentives. Those include the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, Clean Cars 4 All, and the Clean Vehicle Assistance Program. Together that can potentially save you $10,000 on your EV purchase. It’s a good time to buy electric! PG&E’s EV Savings Calculator helps customers who are considering purchasing or leasing an EV to compare cars and evaluate total cost of ownership of an EV compared to gas-powered cars. The tool provides customers with a personalized recommendation that includes estimated costs, savings, and rebates or incentives of up to approximately $10,000. Additionally, the EV Savings Calculator allows customers to explore EV rate options available to them for residential charging and find public charging stations in their area. Since launching two years ago, the tool has helped more than 350,000 users calculate their savings. See our latest electric car inventory.

But How Do You Know Who to Trust for Your Luxury Car Detailing? There’s nothing like a well-executed car detailing to make your luxury car shine and dazzle like new. And there’s nothing like picking up your beloved car when it’s just been lovingly detailed: washed, polished and sanitized, buffed inside and out, wheels and other details sparkling in the sun. By hiring a reputable car detailing company, you can practically avoid the possibility of damage to your vehicle while enhancing its appearance and its value over the long term. And detailing doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank. In fact, basic washes and interior cleaning at a detailer can start in the $100-$200 range. And if you consider the benefit derived from a regular professional detailing, it’s well worth the cost. more In fact, regular professional detailing can protect the value of your car and help you feel proud of your investment. Here are some questions you might want to ask any professional auto detailer before leaving your baby in its charge for a few hours. No matter who you choose, every detail should include hand washing, waxing, polishing, vacuuming and window cleaning. You might just want the exterior done so make sure that’s a service that your detailer offers. Some businesses also offer pet hair and odor removal and other detailed cleaning services. Whatever you choose, the idea with a good detail is to focus on restoring your car to its original external and internal condition. A professionally detailer will plenty of options for helping you do just that. According to the Perfection Plus Biz blog you should start with these three questions: Is the detailer IDA (International Detailing Association) certified? Or do they have any professional training? Like any other tradesman, a  professional detailer should have formal training or have been an apprentice with an experienced detailer. Certification is just another layer of legitimacy that tells you this is a good outfit to handle your precious auto.  Here’s a link to the IDA to find out if your possible detailer is certified. Visit the IDA site. Does the detailer use old school chemicals to clean your car? If so what are the names of those chemicals? (Ask for a list and what they are used for). Detailing has made progress in using greener materials to clean your car in a way that is less dangerous to kids, adults and pets. But some older methods cans still employ relatively harsh chemicals. So ask a lot of questions. If a detailer says they use acid to remove water spots on the exterior you may want to pass on that detailer. This is not a good method for your luxury car’s exterior and can be quite damaging. Hydrofluoric acid was used to remove  water spots in the early 90’s. It works, yes. But it can also break down the clear coat finish on your car and also damage glass - in ways that cannot be reversed. It can also be very bad for your health when inhaled.  There are many safer products that are used today so ask the detailer about how they address spots safely without harsh acids. How, exactly, does the detailer clean your car’s carpets and upholstery? According to Perfection Plus if your interior is in good shape the detailer should avoid using harsh chemicals to clean the interior back to “like new” condition. These chemicals are extremely dangerous for pets and children and are not great for you or your adult passengers. So see what alternatives they offer.  A good detailer can even wash out the tough chemicals used in a prior cleaning. Your lungs will thank you! “Steam technology revolutionized the way interiors are cleaned,” according to the site. Other questions to consider, according to Small Biz Trends and other websites: How long have they been detailing professionally? A professional detailer should have at least 5 years of experience working at a private reputable detailing shop. Also, if they are using the older and outdated techniques and products from 20 years ago, consider finding one that is up to date with chemical-free cleaning that is less harmful to the interior and exterior. How long will the detailing take? A sedan with minimal wear, for instance, should take less time than a full SUV with embedded stains throughout the interior. Expect it to range from 3-6 hours. Does your detailing company carry insurance? It’s important to make sure the auto detailer is insured before you drop off your car. This can bring you peace of mind, especially if your car is a collectible. Bad things can happen. Your car can get hit by another car or scratched during the detailing process. Even crimes can happen. So at least check out their insurance coverage before you get started Does your company have a service guarantee? Your auto detailer should stun and amaze you with the service they provide. And one thing more reputable car detailers do is provide you with a service agreement. Because detailers are human and may miss something you should ask in advance if they provide a service guarantee that makes sure you know you will be satisfied with their work before you bring in your auto. Some detailers even promise a money back guarantee if you are not fully satisfied! What is your dropoff/pickup protocol. It’s important to understand a detailer’s drop off and pickup protocol before you head over. Often, you can arrange to have someone pick you up during your service or you can bring enough work to keep you occupied in the waiting room, until your service is over. They might even offer to pick you up when your car is ready if you live or work nearby (rare, but it happens). And there’s a lengthy list of benefits to regular detailing. Among them: simple convenience; fewer penalties when returning a lease vehicle; faster sale turnaround and (our favorite) peace of mind. Everyone spills something in their vehicle, whether it’s a BMW or a Bentley. So why not let the professionals clean it up the right way? Another option aside from a professional car detailer is to let your car dealership take care of the maintenance and any detailing work for you.  They know your car because they sold it to you and are very familiar with the model - and you know your auto is in the very best hands. This may cost a bit more but will pay endless dividends in terms of lack of surprises when it’s time to end the lease or sell. All you have to do is bring your laptop and enjoy a cup of coffee!

More and more luxury automakers are offering electric cars. So what are the advantages of owning a luxury electric car? They’re everywhere on the luxury car market in 2021 and there’s so many more coming along as the Electric Car technology improves at lightning speed. Electric cars use a rechargeable battery-powered engine in place of a typical gas engine. So, what are the advantages of owning an electric car or electric luxury automobile? There are loads of benefits – so many, in fact, that some luxury car makers are vowing to go 100 percent electric in the near future - so let’s touch on as many benefits as we can in Part 2 of our blog on the subject: (See Electric Car Benefits Part 1 for No. 1-3) more No. 4. There are tax credits available for owners of electric cars. The BMW electric car page lists many benefits including tax credits.  In fact, owning an electric BMW or other luxury electric car comes with many financial incentives. You may be eligible for federal tax credits of up to $7,500, in addition to other state incentives such as rebates, tax credits, and grants. You could also save up to $1,500 in fuel costs within five years.  All-electric and plug-in hybrid cars purchased new in or after 2010 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500. The credit amount will vary based on the capacity of the battery used to power the vehicle. State and/or local incentives may also apply! BMW even offers a state by state rundown. Original owners of luxury electric cars such as the BMW i3 can receive credit on their tax returns simply for owning a car that's good for the environment. The BMW i3 is a B-segment, high-roof hatchback with an electric powertrain using rear wheel drive via a single-speed transmission and an underfloor Li-ion battery pack and an optional range-extending petrol engine. The i3 is BMW's first mass-produced zero emissions vehicle and was launched as part of BMW's electric vehicle sub-brand. Other specific makes and models receive different credit amounts. So if you're interested in learning about what kind of credit you could receive, there are several online resources and articles available. No. 6. In addition to cost-cutting incentives, if you own a model such as an Audi e-tron GT you financial benefits such as potential fuel savings and federal tax credits. The 2021 Audi e-tron GT and Audi e-tron Sportback are all-electric luxury crossovers that are taking Audi firmly into the forefront of the electric car universe. Their battery-powered, all-wheel-drive powertrains deliver up to 222 miles of EPA estimated driving range and their refined and responsive driving and quiet yet high tech interior spaces prove to be 100 percent Audi DNA. They are electric but very similar to the non-electric Audis in terms of style and performance. And did you know that with these same luxury electric cars you can receive preferential parking and charging various cities around the nation while charging your plug-in hybrid and access to HOV lanes with a single occupant in select states. That’s right: Plug-in auto owners often receive preferential parking for increased convenience while charging. No. 8. You get exclusive lane access. That means you can cut even more time from your daily commutes – most BMW electric cars and other luxury electric cars are eligible for HOV lane access with a single occupant in select states. Some major highways have high occupancy vehicle lanes (HOV) that can bypass traffic during rush hour. This is known as the carpool lane, but is also available to electric car drivers. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, High occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes are available across thousands of miles in more than 20 states. The idea is to move people more efficiently. According to DOE, HOV lanes require vehicles to have a minimum number of occupants during peak traffic hours or that they be registered electric cars or hybrids that are also entitled to use the lanes. HOV lanes are open to carpoolers, buses, and motorcyclists in most areas. Some HOV lanes are accessible to certain low emission vehicles, electric and hybrid electric vehicles (regardless of the number of passengers). A number of states use HOV lane exemptions to encourage people to buy certain sustainable fuel car types, like electric cars, to further reduce mobile source emissions. The benefits of owning a luxury electric car are endless. So reach out to set up a test drive today!

More and more luxury automakers are offering electric cars. So what are the advantages of owning a luxury electric car? They’re everywhere on the luxury car market in 2021 and there’s so many more coming along as the EV technology improves at lightning (no pun intended) speed. Electric cars use a rechargeable battery-powered engine in place of a typical gas engine. So, what are the advantages of owning an electric car or electric luxury automobile? There are loads of benefits – so many, in fact, that some luxury car makers are vowing to go 100 percent electric in the near future - so let’s touch on as many benefits as we can in a two-part blog: No. 1. They are better for the environment. Electricity can be a renewable resource but gasoline cannot. Electric cars and Electric SUVs require less expensive and less frequent maintenance. Because fully electric vehicles such as the Porsche Taycan don't use an exhaust system, they have no emissions. But in 2021 that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice power and performance.   The 2021 Porsche Taycan is an innovative  electric vehicle that showcases just how high performing an electric vehicle can be. It is the first production EV with an 800-volt architecture and a multispeed transaxle, and as such it sets new benchmarks in charging speeds and acceleration times. In fact, the top-of-the-line 750-hp Turbo S is among the quickest cars in history, according to Cnet and other online publications. more The Taycan also has the ability to make multiple high-speed runs without a significant loss in performance. The Taycan drives like the Porsche sports car that it is and is exciting beyond most electric models on the market today. It even earned Editors' Choice award from Car & Driver. And it does all this without emitting any fumes into the air like gas engines do, thus helping us all achieve cleaner air and fewer greenhouse gasses. Additionally electric cars can be powered with renewable resources like solar power, wind power, and water power while gasoline is created using oil, which is a natural resource, but not renewable. For those who want to go even further, you can have solar panels installed in your home that will in-turn power your electric car in your garage or charge at solar powered charging stations in various locations. Take, for instance the Electric VW the VW ID4. After years of hinting at electric cars with various concepts, Volkswagen is finally delivering the spectacular Electric VW, the ID.4, an electric SUV. It’s a major step toward the German automaker’s goal of rolling out an impressive lineup of electric VWs in the near future. Volkswagen says the ID. 4 will be able to drive up to 250 miles between charges and its SUV shape and cool, streamline styling should make it very popular as a cutting edge EV. All new ID.4 models will be rear-wheel drive but all-wheel drive models will join the lineup later in the year. A base model priced starting at $35,000 will be a great choice for those looking for an affordable price point but we won’t see that until 2022. In the meantime, the first Electric VW, the ID.4 Pro and loaded 1 st Edition models will comprise the VW ID.4's launch at indiGO Auto Group. Electrify America has announced the opening of eight of the 30 designated solar-powered charging stations that offer Electric car and Electric SUV owners a way to charge at rural California locations. Electrify America says these stations will have very little to no impact on areas where the charging stations are located because they don't require any construction. Electrify America simply drops them on site and turns them on. “Each charging station has two Level 2 chargers with the ability to charge up to 3.5kW. The stations are independently rated to withstand winds up to 120 mph and floods up to 9.5 feet and can operate in the event of a blackout or power outage,” according to Electrify America. And they are solar powered so models such as the VW ID.4 and the Porsche Taycan, as well as the Audi e-tron can simply pull up and charge no matter the conditions. Each charging stations has a 4.28-kW sun-tracking solar array and a 32 kWh battery to store the energy so your Electric Car  or Electric SUV can use the stations even when it’s cloudy. According to Electrify America: The systems provide off-grid EV charging that's zero-emission, with all renewable electricity. And, better yet, the charging units can be installed where there is currently no access to electricity. No. 2. They are quieter than gas vehicles. Take for example the Audi e-Tron, which turned out to be the quietest electric car ever tested by famed Youtuber Bjørn Nyland, averaging just 63 dB. The silence, even at high speeds, was also highlighted in an Autogefühl review, which clearly said that it's better than other famous and fast electric cars. Overall, it’s well worth noting the e-tron doesn’t drive like your typical electric car. In fact, it drives like just about any other Audi thanks to state-of-the-art drive technology. With its electric motor powering each axle, the all-wheel drive Q4 e-tron creates an impressive 300 horsepower that can get you from zero-to-60 in 6.3 seconds. And the interior showcases Audi's state-of-the-art technology, including a digital gauge display that is standard in all models as well as a large infotainment touchscreen angled toward the driver. Overall, electric cars run very quietly, especially when running fully on battery power. For a hybrid SUV that can also run quietly you might consider an Audi Q5. In fact, some states are considering legislation requiring electric cars to have noise makers installed to let pedestrians know they're coming! According to MYEV.com, the 2019 Jaguar i-Pace electric car has gone so far as to add engine noises when the driver accelerates quickly for the feel of a traditional engine. In fact the Jaguar I-PACE has been designed to ensure every step of the driving journey delivers peace of mind and makes owning an electric car as easy as possible. Technology is driver-focused and the new exterior design bring an even greater sense of luxury to the electric car species. From the new Atlast Gray grille tip finish and an enhanced paint palette, a new range of wheels - this is not your great uncles electric car! In fact, Jaguar had a vision of creating the most desirable electric vehicle on the market and show what can happen when the great minds at Jaguar take on the EV. There’s faster home charging: 11kW (AC) domestic wall box can add 53km/33miles of range (WLTP) per hour for customers with three-phase supplies. The I-PACE also offers outstanding performance and range: Acceleration from 0-60mph in just 4.5 (0-100km/h 4.8 seconds) seconds and up to 470km / 292 miles (WLTP). And even greater. No. 3. They can be cheaper to maintain and run over time. Electric vehicles require less maintenance and can therefore be less expensive to maintain over time. Without the use of a gas engine, electric cars don't need oil. That means no more oil changes. Also, you'll forgo any other maintenance and repairs associated with a traditional gas engine. Electric cars such as the Porsche Taycan are typically easier on brakes as well leading to fewer brake replacements, accord to AutoTrader.com. Electricity is also cheaper to run than gasoline. Electric cars usually cost about one-third the cost of gas-powered vehicles to run. And electric vehicles often use regenerative braking to add to the energy the car needs to run. And it’s cost free! Stay tuned for Part 2 next week!

Ready to Dazzle? Check out these luxury car features you really need to know about in 2021. When it comes to luxurious auto amenities, Rolls-Royce and Bentley literally wrote the book. So we’re taking a look at some of the most irresistible and opulent options from these venerable British automakers in 2021: The Luggage Set for Rolls-Royce At $46,000 the whole set of luggage for Rolls-Royce Wraith costs more than most people’s starter luxury cars. You can also buy each bag separately, but why not go for the whole enchilada (or crumpet, if you prefer the British version)? Handles are engineered to perfectly distribute weight and then finished with the kind of invisible stitch most commonly found on the couture runway. According to Business Insider, which reviewed the pieces, this gives each piece and uber smooth feel. The Spirit of Ecstasy  is embossed on each piece, including the “Grand Tourer” bag that features self-righting wheels and a huge double R emblem. Of course, you can customize each bag to match the interior of your model. Why would you have it any other way? more The Rolls-Royce Cullinan’s Champagne Chiller According to Top Gear website Rolls-Royce Cullinan and champagne go hand in hand. You need that fridge – in fact a special champagne fridge – to keep it the perfect temperature for you and your friends while you enjoy the rarified rear interior while someone else does the driving. Crystal glasses specially made for your Rolls complete this champagne dream. When you’re paying just over a quarter million dollars for your car, that Fixed Rear Centre Console, complete with the champagne chiller is a must. And if whisky is more your style there’s even a set of Rolls-Royce whisky glasses plus a decanter to round out the beverage cabinet. Kids can enjoy non-alcoholic soft drinks or smoothies chilled on the go! The Mulliner Hamper in the Bentley Bentayga The Bentayga is The (with a capital T) Luxury SUV so Bentley has spared no expense in offering you up the best in luxurious options. The automaker’s Mulliner department is no slouch and this hamper setup sits on a custom-engineered docking mechanism that allows it to be pulled forward or even removed, according to Top Gear. The lids can provide handy seating at that polo tournament if you like. The Mulliner hamper includes fancy china crockery, cutlery and crystal glassware along with a Bentley ‘Flying B’ bottle stopper for beverages. There’s storage space for food, beer and champagne. Cheers to that! Fancy Clock in the Bentley Bentayga Those who appreciate the best things in life will appreciate the luxury time piece in the Bentayga, according to Motor Trend website. The $160,000 mechanical Breitling clock adorning the dash of the Bentayga is called the Mulliner Tourbillon. And it even winds itself and has a motor that can rotate the clock to keep it running, according to Motor Trend. It comes in a dark or light mother of Pearl face. Mulliner is a famous British coachbuilder for carriages from horse-driven to automotive. The company dates back to the 1760s and Bentley now holds the name, according to Extreme Tech. Tourbillon means “whirlwind” in French. Inside the Bentayga, the unit holding the clock moves on its axes occasionally to keep the timepiece wound if the car is not driven. Only four per year are being produced. Rotating Dashboard Display in the Bentley Continental GT You and your passengers will enjoy watching the optional rotating dashboard display on your Bentley Continental GT, according to Top Gear. You can choose between analogue dials that display outside air temperature, compass and chronometer, a 12.3in touchscreen or a walnut veneer, just to name a few. In fact, there are so many options to choose from for this bespoke mechanism made up of  40 moving parts - with an intelligent drive system that varies speeds to maintain tight tolerances, taking into account variances in friction and temperature. That you might be tempted to change your name to Bond. James Bond. Lambswool Rugs in the Bentley Flying Spur It’s your home away from home when you’re on the road. And the rear seating area in the Bentley Flying Spur is a little house of luxury. There’s massage features galore, heaters and coolers and lots of entertainment. So why not lambswool rugs to make sure you and your passengers are extra comfy? The lambswool floor mats will make sure everyone’s feet are clouded in the softest natural wool. Don’t forget to bring your slippers! The Starlight Headliner in the Rolls Just about every Rolls comes with this available option. The Starlight headliner requires about 12 hours of work on average and leaves you feeling like you are sitting beneath a heavenly constellation as you head out on the town for a magical event. And Rolls will replicate whatever constellation you choose. How about an Orion’s Belt or a Big Dipper?  According to Top Gear, the leather headlining is perforated in the desired pattern before up to 1,600 fiber-optic lights are set into the holes at different angles. You, the passenger (or driver) can vary the intensity of the light using the onboard infotainment system. So sit back, relax and take in the stars – even on a cloudy night. The Umbrellas in the Rolls-Royce Phantom It even rains in California and Texas so why not be prepared? With the umbrella found in the Rolls-Royce Phantom inclement weather need never bother you again. Polished handles and a monogram spell out Rolls-Royce excellence. The storage compartment has drainage holes that will allow the umbrella to dry properly, even if you hit a downpour in the Welsh countryside or a sudden monsoon in Pebble Beach.

What about massage seats in luxury cars? Luxury vehicles have to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to delivering the industry’s top features – everything from in-vehicle refrigeration to infotainment and sound systems. But when it comes to one of the most luxurious features of all - high quality massage seats - some brands are leading the pack. In fact, these automakers are offering massages so relaxing that you’d have to visit a real life massage therapist to beat this kind of body work. We took a look at some of the top ranked massage seats in luxury cars according to Motor Biscuit and Motor Trend websites. So settle in, turn on some soft music and prepare to unwind! Here they are: more 1. The Rolls-Royce Ghost is considered one of the most luxurious vehicles in the world. And its massage seats are one of the many reasons. The Ghost is generous with its seats' kneading power and will relax all four passengers if that’s what they want. According to Motor Biscuit: “The executive seat is the best-equipped massage, however, as the up/down waves that go from the top to the bottom of the occupant's back are complemented by a shoulder-to-lumbar massage given by a separate set of air cushions.” The executive seat is, of course, the best-equipped massage, giving you up and waves that go from the top to the bottom of  your back. That’s complemented by a shoulder-to-lumbar massage given by a separate set of air cushions. And if you’re being driven by a chauffeur, he or she is sure to thank you for the great massage when you come out of your special event! Ahhhhhhh. 2. The Jaguar XJ offers massages for all takers and there are five modes, each with five intensity levels. The rear seat reclines, allowing rear passengers to get into drooling mode. Heating and ventilation for each of the seats – and supple leather – make this an extra special experience.   3. The A8, Audi’s largest sedan, is equipped with one of the best massages in the business – if you choose it as an option. Massage is available in any of the four outboard seats, along with heating and ventilation. The massage features five modes and five intensity levels. On top of that the rear seat reclines, and a power rear footrest is available. So you can also kick back and cool down. 4. Maybe the crème de la crème of massage: The Bentley Mulsanne uses the same system as the Audi A8, but it wraps it up in even more luxury and opulence. Along with the massage you get heating and ventilation, reclining seats. And there’s five types of massages with 10 levels of intensity. On top of that you get iPads built into the front seatbacks; they can be deployed while getting a massage and enable rear-seat passengers to video chat as they convey their feelings about the massage they're receiving. It doesn't get much better than that. But then again, what would you expect from Bentley? Honorable mentions: The 2021 Audi e-tron. This electric luxury crossover SUV comes with very nice massaging seats and its higher trim level, the Prestige trim, provides Valcona leather along with the massage! The 2021 Porsche Cayenne. This Porsche has optional massaging front seats along with eight-way power-adjustable front seats and leather upholstery. In addition to the massage feature, other optional features include heated and ventilated front and rear seats and 14- or 18-way power-adjustable front seats. Adding in massage will cost more money, of course. For example the Audi e-tron starts at $74,800, but you will pay an additional $4,300 for the trim that includes massaging seats. The 2020 Porsche Cayenne has a starting price of $67,500, but its top trim starts at $166,200. Adding massaging and ventilated seats in the front can cost $2,000 in those models. Find Massage Seats in Luxury Cars

Expect the new automotive trends to keep coming fast and furious in this rapidly changing market that is impacted, in large part, by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are four car trends to watch in 2021: No. 1 Personal Vehicle Ownership versus Shared Mobility In recent years experts have predicted a reduction in the ownership and usage of personal automobiles. That means more people would be taking the bus, riding on commuter trains, or sharing rides. That is what was supposed to happen. But what a difference a year makes. With the COVID-19 pandemic that trend prediction, like many others, has been toppled. According to the M. Power by Mitchell while the pandemic has diminished the commuting needs of workers, many still rely on their vehicles around home for errands and for business travel and vacation. And they prize the privacy and protection of driving their own car. “The vehicle, in many ways, has become our own private bubble,” says Jonathan Smoke, chief economist of Cox Automotive. A safe, private bubble where you are not sharing air or coming in contact with the general public –  these are features of sole car ownership that are now highly valued in this era of the virus. According to writer Ryan Mandell, the trend is further highlighted by the fact that ride-sharing companies are evolving business models to put greater emphasis on the movement of goods. One example is the Uber Eats platform. “Uber viewed this as such a critical aspect of their business that they purchased another digital food delivery service, Postmates, for $2.65 billion in July,” according to the M. Power website. more No. 2. More Electric Vehicles. The increase in fossil fuel rate and the harm to the environment caused by their use has caused the automotive industry to shift its focus to electric vehicles (EVs). Cars contribute to 15% of carbon emissions, and electric vehicles are addressing those challenges by offering a higher level of energy efficiency and reduced fuel usage. In the history books, 2021 may just be the year of the electric vehicle (EV). By last fall alone there were more than 1.6 million electric vehicles on the US road, which is higher than the expected 1.4 million by 2024 and the trend is expected to keep growing in 2021. In Europe alone, the EV growth will further increase - not due to COVID-19 but thanks to highly stringent CO2 legislation imposed by the EU, according to Forbes magazine. Over in China, the government will reduce incentives on New Energy Vehicles (EVs, PHEVs, and FCEVs) by 20% but, at the same time, it will use other mechanisms like restricting ICE registrations to make sure EV sales penetration will keep rising. And here in the US everyone’s eyes are on the new administration to see what it will do to boost support for EVs. While it will take more than 12 months to introduce regulatory changes nationwide, there is a good chance the existing EV tax rebate program is further expanded. Trend No. 3. Connected Cars Expand Their Powers With 5G capabilities slowly being built out and 6G on the horizon, vehicle connectivity has been a defining automotive trend for years. Naturally, vehicle connectivity is vital to autonomous driving. Additionally, OTAs (Over-the-Air Updates), are a hugely important feature in the coming world of digital mobility, according to Forbes magazine. And research suggests that by 2023, some 90% of all new vehicles in the US (and 70% of light-duty vehicles and trucks worldwide) will feature embedded connectivity capabilities, according to Intland Software. This won’t impact how technical updates are received; with more and more Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and increasing vehicle autonomy, focus is slowly moving to connected onboard infotainment. According to Forbes Magazine, cars will carry some major advancements in connectivity in 2021. One being in-car shopping enabled by Connected car Internet of Things (IoT) platforms. These allow in-car marketplaces to cater to drivers and passengers so they can indulge in personal retail therapy (or order your favorite take out) from the convenience of your massaging seats Forbes says features-on-demand will improve vehicle convenience, comfort, multimedia, performance, and safety. Not only will this transform your user experience and push the boundaries of personalization but it will allow the opening up of innovative business models and recurring revenue streams for automakers. Welcome to the new frontier! One slice or two? Trend No. 4 Health and Wellness in Cars Everyone’s on edge in the age of the pandemic. Stressed out to the max. So automakers, like other industries, are highlighting the importance of health and wellness – everything from addressing sore muscles to cleaning up the air inside of cars. From massage seats in the front and back to features that detect if you’ve had one too many alcoholic beverages, to high tech air purifiers – all parts of the vehicle will be gone over to make sure your cabin is contributing to your top-level health. In fact, car companies are developing built-in and brought in features that will make sure you and your passengers are enjoying the healthiest drive ever. State of the art air purification will be one solution to ever-increasing air pollution in large metropolitan areas. Expect to see options introduced that monitor external ambient air quality and regulate in-vehicle air quality, according to Forbes. Moreover, some automakers are even offering location services that provide allergen warnings, and biosensors that enable monitoring of glucose levels, blood pressure, and heart rate. Other health-enhancing features for 2021 include even more ergonomic seating and control placement, muscle therapy through ergonomic seats with heating and massage features. Plus rear seats that can be configured to allow exercise. So car travel is no longer an excuse to skip your sit-ups!