Lewes, East Sussex – Lewes District Council has announced the installation of 64 new electric vehicle (EV) charging points across 11 car parks in the area, as part of a 15-year agreement with Connected Kerb, a leading provider of EV charging infrastructure. The initiative is aimed at increasing electric vehicle adoption, improving air quality, and providing much-needed charging access to residents who are unable to charge their vehicles at home.

The project includes the replacement of existing rapid charge points at Lower Place and Phoenix Causeway, ensuring that the district’s infrastructure remains up-to-date and capable of meeting the growing demand for EV charging.

Councillor Emily O’Brien, Cabinet Member for Climate, Nature, and Food Systems, emphasized the importance of the initiative in supporting the local community’s transition to greener transportation. “We want to make it easier for local people to do the right thing for the environment,” she stated. “By putting affordable charge points into our car parks, we make it much easier for those people to take that step towards a greener future.”

The initiative aligns with the UK government’s ambitious target of 300,000 public charging points nationwide by 2031, a key component of the country’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable living.

Cllr O’Brien highlighted the feedback from residents, many of whom are eager to switch to electric vehicles but have been deterred by the lack of accessible charging options. “I’ve heard from many people who want to get an electric car and can afford to do so, but they don’t go ahead because of lack of access to chargers or to off-street parking where they can install one,” she explained.

The new charging points are expected to significantly alleviate these concerns, making electric vehicles a more viable option for a broader segment of the population in East Sussex. The council’s partnership with Connected Kerb marks a significant step towards achieving local and national environmental goals, fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future for the community.

As the installation of these charging points progresses, residents and visitors alike can look forward to easier access to electric vehicle charging, paving the way for increased EV adoption and a reduction in the region’s carbon footprint.

Summer car detailing is essential to maintain your vehicle’s appearance and protect it from the harsh effects of the sun, heat, and environmental contaminants. However, the costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Here’s how to save money while keeping your car in top condition during the summer months.

1. DIY Car Washing

• Wash It Yourself: Washing your car at home instead of going to a professional service can save a lot. Invest in a good quality car wash soap, microfiber towels, and a bucket. Avoid dish soap as it can strip away wax and damage the paint.
• Use the Two-Bucket Method: This reduces the chance of scratching your paint. One bucket is for soapy water, and the other is for rinsing your dirty wash mitt.

2. Protect the Paint

• Apply a High-Quality Wax or Sealant: Waxing your car protects the paint from UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap, and road debris. Consider using a spray wax, which is quicker to apply and can be done at home.
• Park in the Shade: Whenever possible, park your car in the shade to prevent the sun from damaging the paint and interior. This reduces the frequency of washing and waxing.
• Use a Car Cover: If you don’t have access to covered parking, invest in a car cover. It protects your car from sun exposure and other environmental damage.

3. Interior Care

• Clean Regularly: Regularly vacuuming and wiping down surfaces will keep dirt and debris from becoming embedded in carpets and upholstery, extending the life of your interior.
• Use Homemade Cleaners: Save money by making your own interior cleaners. A mixture of water and white vinegar is effective for cleaning windows, and a mild dish soap solution works well for upholstery.
• Protect Your Dashboard: The sun can cause your dashboard to crack and fade. Use a sunshade when parked and apply a UV protectant to maintain the dash’s condition.

4. Wheel and Tire Maintenance

• DIY Tire Shine: Instead of buying expensive tire shine products, make your own with water and a small amount of baby oil. It’s cost-effective and gives a nice shine.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean your wheels and tires frequently to prevent brake dust and grime buildup, which can lead to corrosion. A simple solution of water and dish soap is usually enough.

5. Preventative Maintenance

• Check Fluid Levels: High temperatures can cause your car’s fluids to evaporate faster. Regularly check and top up engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid to prevent costly repairs.
• Inspect and Maintain Air Conditioning: Running your AC more often in the summer can strain the system. Ensure it’s running efficiently by regularly checking for leaks and replacing the cabin air filter.

6. Plan Ahead for Professional Detailing

• Look for Deals and Coupons: If you need professional detailing, look for discounts, promotions, or seasonal offers. Many detailers offer lower prices during weekdays or slow business periods.
• Bundle Services: Some shops offer discounts if you bundle services like waxing, interior cleaning, and engine bay cleaning.

7. Use Efficient Products

• Opt for Long-Lasting Products: Invest in long-lasting waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings. Though they may have a higher upfront cost, they reduce the frequency of applications, saving you money in the long run.
• Waterless Wash Products: These are great for quick clean-ups and don’t require a hose. They are efficient in saving water and can be used on the go.

By taking a DIY approach, getting help from Detailing Studio Chicago using homemade solutions, and being mindful of where and how you park, you can keep your car looking great all summer long without breaking the bank. Regular maintenance, both inside and out, ensures that your vehicle stays in prime condition, saving you from more expensive repairs down the line.

Logan Sargeant, the American Formula 1 driver, walked away unscathed after a dramatic crash during practice at the Dutch Grand Prix on Saturday. Sargeant lost control of his Williams Racing car, which slammed into a wall, crumpled on impact, and erupted in flames.

Immediately following the crash, Sargeant remained in the cockpit momentarily, reassuring his team over the radio, saying, “I’m good.” However, his race engineer quickly urged him to exit the car, having spotted flames emanating from the vehicle’s rear. Sargeant swiftly vaulted out of the smoking car and made his way to the side of the track as the session was promptly red-flagged.

Williams Racing confirmed that Sargeant was unharmed but announced that the damage to the car was too extensive to repair in time for the qualifying session. “The team will continue to repair and build his car in preparation for race day,” Williams Racing said in a statement on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

The incident comes at a critical juncture for Sargeant, who has yet to score a point this season. This Grand Prix was his first since Williams announced that he would be replaced by Spanish driver Carlos Sainz for the next season. Sargeant joined Williams at the beginning of the 2023 season, making history as the first American driver in 30 years to score points in an F1 race, achieving a 10th-place finish at the United States Grand Prix.

In the subsequent qualifying session, Lando Norris secured the fastest time, earning pole position for Sunday’s race. Reigning champion Max Verstappen will start in second place, with Oscar Piastri rounding out the top three. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton faced disappointment, exiting in the second round of qualifying and will begin the race from 12th on the grid.