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Category: Blog

Q. Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto: Which is Better

A.

Here at KennCo, we know our drivers love both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They are both an excellent product that merges both your phone and your car. 

These two platforms bring a touchscreen interface to your car and incorporate messages, media, navigation and more. They mostly achieve the same purpose, so it may be challenging to decide which one to choose. You might be thinking, what’s the difference? Or even which one is better?

We want to help our customers out by informing them of the debate between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We will help you decide which one you should be buying. We will start by looking at AppleCarplay first.

What is Apple CarPlay?

Carplay is Apple’s feature of connecting your iPhone to your car and a tablet-like display with a very simple iOS interface. CarPlay essentially lets you access certain apps and features on your phone for use in the car. 

Apple Car Play

You may be thinking, but my car already has a smart device in it? Yes, you may already have a tablet device installed in your car by your car manufacturer. The downside to these is they are usually very low build quality, and the features are lacking. They’re a car company, not a tech company at the end of the day. CarPlay, on the other hand, is consistent on any car that supports it and brings a familiar interface for iPhone users.

CarPlay doesn’t replace your manufacturer’s stock system. If for whatever reason, you’re not happy with Carplay, you can swap back to your stock system at a tap.

How Does Apple CarPlay Work?

Apple CarPlay lets you access apps on your iPhone but with less functionality. Of course, there are other options for drivers who want to play their own music from their phone to the stereo, but that comes with negatives.

If you’re constantly getting notifications from your apps while you’re driving, it will distract you, and the more distracted you are driving, the risk of you being in an accident increases. 

The benefit of CarPlay is that it make sit easy to navigate, reply to messages, play your own music and ask Siri for any queries. This is made very easy thanks to the voice commands on CarPlay and the large app icons. 

What Apps are Available for CarPlay?

When using CarPlay, you don’t install apps into CarPlay. The apps you use in CarPlay are already installed on your iPhone and are compatible with Apple CarPlay. These apps include many built-in iOS apps such as Phone, Messages, Music and Maps. Third-party apps such as Spotify and Audible work on CarPlay too. 

Apple Car Play Dashboard

CarPlay is great to play music on Spotify, and you can even ask Siri to play songs with voice commands. CarPlay now supports podcasts and audiobooks to give you an exciting story while driving, so you’re always entertained. 

Apple is quite protective over what apps drivers can use with CarPlay than Google is with their Android Auto. This may suit some drivers, but others may like the freedom of Android Auto. 

Which in-car infotainment system do you prefer?

How Do You Use Siri With Apple CarPlay?

To use Siri, you simply press and hold the dashboard button, which you will see on the left dashboard. Alternatively, you can hit the voice button on your steering wheel if you have one. This may be more convenient, especially when driving. You can then ask Siri anything that you typically would on your iPhone. You can summon Siri with queries such as:

  • “Call Mom.”
  • “Play music by The Beatles.”
  • “Send John a text that I’ll be home in 5 minutes.”

You can, of course, use your screen to do this too, but Siri is a lot quicker, safer and more convenient. 

Apple CarPlay Overall

Apple Carplay is a great way to interact with iPhone and your car. The functionality of Apple CarPlay is amazing and offers a range of possibilities to make your commute even easier. It is a must-have if you have an iPhone and if your car supports it. It adds more features and more apps as it grows, so it is only getting better.

If your car does not support Apple CarPlay, then you may have to invest a reasonable sum of money and time to get it. If you only want Apple CarPlay to play your music, then other cheaper options are available to you. 

What is Android Auto?

So we’ve outlined what Apple CarPlay is and what can be done with it for iPhone users. Now it’s time to explain what Android Auto is. Like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto promises to keep its drivers safe and reduce distractions while on the road. 

What Does Android Auto Do?

Like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto takes features that you love on your Android devices and puts them on your car’s dashboard by using your infotainment system. It has a similar interface to an android device and shows big menus and icons to help you navigate and use it. 

One of the big benefits of Android Auto is that Google Maps is a navigation system built-in. Google Maps is superior to Apple’s native Maps app. Google Map can give you step by step directions to your location and even suggests an alternate route if it detects heavy traffic on the route. 

Android Auto gives drivers access to songs and podcasts via a range of third-party apps. You can also browse the web, send messages and answer phone calls. 

Just like Apple CarPlay and Siri, you can use Google Assistant to help you on your commute. You can ask it to call, text, or even ask questions. 

Many cars come with Android Auto built-in, such as Hyundai, Kia, Toyota and much more. If your car doesn’t come with Android Auto, you can always replace your current system and upgrade it with an Android Auto compatible system. 

Android Auto Overall

Android Auto is a great addition to any Android user’s car with its user-friendly OS, which connects your phone to your car. Android Auto is becoming available in more makes and models in recent years. 

Should You Choose Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

The decision ultimately comes down to which phone you have and plan on using. If you use an iPhone and plan on sticking with Apple, you should be using AppleCarplay, and if you have an Android device, you should use Android Auto. If you’re not using either of these, maybe you could give them a try and see what all the fuss is about!

 

Q. Tyre Maintenance – Pressure, Balancing and Alignment

A.

The Importance of Tyre Maintenance

Tyre maintenance is an important responsibility when you own a car. Not only does it save you money, increase your control and improve breaking power but it also leads to safer driving.

Tyre Pressure

Tyre pressure should be treated as an important safety element of your car’s tyre maintenance. It is vital that your car has the correct tyre pressure as it is required to carry the weight of your car and its load. There’s no excuse for not having the correct tyre pressure as you can easily top it up at nearly every service station in Ireland for free.

Low Tyre Pressure:

Low tyre pressure increases the breaking distance on wet roads and decreases handling power. You also end up spending more, as the having low pressure means that your tyres wear much faster.

High Tyre Pressure:

High tyre pressure

By having your tyre pressure too high, it means that the amount of your tyre that touches the road is reduced. This results in the car having reduced grip. It also means your journey is going to be that little bit bumpier as an over inflated tyre, has less of a bump absorption rate. But the most dangerous factor of having over inflated tyres is that the risk of having a blowout increases. If you’re travelling at speed and have a tyre blowout, the results may be very serious. You should check your tyre pressure regularly and before any long journey. The correct air pressure for cars can vary. To find out the correct pressure, check the car’s owner manual or the side of the tyre.

How often do you check your car's tyre pressure?

Tyre Alignment

Tyre alignment involves putting your car wheels at perpendicular angles to the ground and parallel to each other. By having your tyres properly aligned, you can increase tyre life and keep your car straighter on the road. It isn’t actually your tyres that are adjusted when fixing tyre alignment but the vehicle’s suspension. By adjusting the suspension, it affects how the tyres make contact with the road.

How do you know if your types are misaligned?

  • Uneven tyre wear – usually the sides of the tyre thread are much more worn than the centre of the tyre.
  • Your car’s steering wheel is off centre when driving straight
  • The steering wheel vibrates as you’re driving
  • Your car veers to one side

If this is the case, you should get them fixed as soon as possible as it increases fuel efficiency, give your tyres a longer life, and improves your control of the car.

Tyre Balancing

Tyre Balancing

Wheel balancing refers to the distribution of weight in a car tyre or wheel. Car owners usually get their tyres balanced at the same time as wheel alignment. Your car’s tyre balancing is measured by placing your tyre on a balancing machine. The tyre is then spun at a high speed to measure any imbalances. It also informs the mechanic of how much weight is required to balance out the tyre and where the extra weight needs to be positioned. The wheels are then balanced by placing a weight on the opposite site to where a heavy spot it located.

How Do your know if your tyres need to be balanced?

If you steering wheel vibrates when you’re driving, this indicates that the balance may be off centre. It usually occurs when you’re driving at high speed or on the motorway. You may also feel vibrations in the back of the car, the floor or in your seat. You can also check for balancing issued by looking at your tyres. If your tyres are cracked at the side or there are bulges it is another indication that your tyres need to be balanced.

Interested in reducing the cost of running your car? Check out our blog on improving you car’s fuel efficiency.

Q. Downsizing Your Home

A.

Why downsizing your home is a good idea

Whether you’re looking to cut down on utility bills, move to a smaller home or receive additional income from a property sale, downsizing your home may be an option for you.downsizing your home Many home owners decide to downsize their home when their children move out or when they want a house that requires less maintenance as they get older. Downsizing your home will usually have a positive impact on your finances. Utility bills will be lower with fewer rooms to heat and clean, maintenance costs will be reduced, and you’ll receive a lump sum for the sale of your larger home.

Choosing the right Home?

Before you decide on where you want to move to it’s important to keep in mind what you need from your new house. Compile a checklist of what you need from your new home before you go house hunting.

Maintenance Costs

maintenance costs

If you’re looking for a home with lower maintenance costs, check which type of heating system is in the home you’re moving to, what energy rating the home has, how big the rooms are, are the fixtures and fittings in full working order, will you need to make any changes in the future if you become less mobile, is the garden larger than you require, are there many plants and greenery to maintain and much more.

Have you ever downsized your home?

Your Needs

Your Housing Needs

If you’re a looking for a home that better suits your needs as you get older, you may need to consider buying a bungalow instead of a two-storey house, whether there’s a downstairs bathroom, are local stores and facilities close by, is it in a safe area, are there social activities in the locality, will the house be accessible if you are dependent on walking aids etc.

The Purchase Cost

Estate Agency Fees

Hiring an estate agent to sell your home can cost you thousands. Consider selling your home yourself on the internet. There are plenty of websites that provide you with the ability to sell your home online. However selling your home without the help of an agent can be stressful in the long run so it might be worth paying an estate agency to do this for you.

Stamp Duty

downsizing your home

When calculating your budget for your new home, do not forget to include extra charges that may be involved. When purchasing a new home, you will be required to pay stamp duty. Stamp duty in Ireland is currently at a rate of 1%. So if you purchase a home worth €300,000 you will be required to pay €3,000 in stamp duty. 

Moving Costs

Set aside some of your budget for moving costs. This doesn’t just include the cost of getting a rental van or courier, you may also require new fixtures or fittings or furniture. 

Mortgage Costs

You may be charged by your mortgage provider to change your mortgage from one property to another. Discuss any additional charges without your bank before you commit to a new house. 

If you are thinking of moving to a new home, don’t forget to protect your new asset the right way by having reliable home insurance in place. Contact KennCo today for a quote on 01 409 2600

Q. 2 Home Insurance Benefits You May Not Be Aware Of

A.

Most homeowners are aware of the importance of having home insurance. It not only protects you against unexpected damages or accidents, but it also gives you peace of mind.

home insurance legal protection

But do homeowners take enough time to check what is included in their home insurance policy? When you’re shopping around it’s important that you don’t just compare price, but features too. Below are two home insurance benefits you may not be aware of. 

 

 

Counselling Helpline

Helpline

Did you know that if you have purchased your home insurance with KennCoInsurance you can avail of a free over-the-phone counselling service? You and your family can call our confidential counselling service using an unrecorded phone service. In some cases, an onward referral to relevant voluntary or professional services may be provided. 

You can contact the counselling service by calling 1850 670 407.

 

 

Family Legal Protection

legal dispute

If you’ve been involved in a legal dispute in the past, you’ll be aware of just how stressful it can be. A legal dispute can crop up unexpectedly whether it is with your employer, neighbours or a family dispute. Not only can this lead to a stressful situation, but it can also be expensive.

 

What is the most important benefit of having home insurance?

 

home insurance policyHowever if you have a home insurance policy with KennCo, family legal protection is included as standard with your policies. This means that in the event of an issue arising, you’re able to seek professional advice without needing to pay high costs consulting a solicitor. Your home insurance policy will pay towards any legal costs incurred for an approved claim made under your policy. This can include solicitor, barrister or accountant’s fees or court costs.

The types of legal issues you can claim for include:

Contract Disputes
Identity Theft
Bodily Injury
Clinical Negligence
Employment Disputes
Property Protection
Tax Protection
Jury Service and Court Attendance
Legal Defence

If you’d like to see what else is included with KennCo’s Home Insurance policies, have a look at our Key Facts Document or call one of our agents on 01 409 2600.

If you like what you see above, you can get a quote on our website or call 01 409 2600 to speak to an agent today. 

*please note the information above is correct as at the date of issue on 18 October 2017. Terms and conditions apply. 

Q. Looking for the Cheapest Travel Insurance? You may be at risk.

A.

What Does Your Travel Insurance Cover?

Irish holidaymakers are leaving themselves exposed by travelling without travel insurance or the inadequate level of cover in place. Many holidaymakers are purchasing their travel insurance based on the cheapest price obtainable and do not take the time to check what is covered under the terms of their policy. 

trav

Planning for holidays can be an expensive time so it’s understandable that travellers are often reluctant to spend more on travel insurance after paying for a holiday. Travel insurance is often seen as an additional option instead of a necessity. As a result, the number of people searching for ‘cheap travel insurance’ has remained high in recent years. But the cheapest option isn’t always the best option. While price isn’t always an indicator of quality, it is important that you check the level of cover before you purchase instead of just comparing prices. 

Medical fees abroad can cost up to €1,000 per day in some countries so don’t wait until it’s too late to appreciate how you can benefit from travel insurance. But it doesn’t only benefit you when you’re abroad. The sooner you purchase your travel insurance the better. That way, you’re not only covered for when you’re abroad but you’re also protected before you go if your flights are cancelled or there is a problem with your accommodation.

How important is price when choosing travel insurance?

Are You Under-Insured?

travel insuranceIt’s important that you don’t make assumptions about what is covered under your policy. Are you aware that not all travel insurance policies include travel to the US & Canada automatically? That your policy may only cover you for 30 days abroad or ski sports may not be included? If you’re planning on an unusual or ‘high risk’ trip, it may be worth calling your insurance company to check whether extras are covered under your policy. You may be required to pay an extra fee for additional cover. 

 

Comparing Travel Insurance Policies

Travel Insurance FormComparing travel insurance policies can seem like a tedious task, especially if you’re not sure what you should be looking for. It is not only important to check what is covered but also how much the maximum amount each insurance company are willing to pay per claim. For example, Insurance Company A will pay up to a max of €3,000 for lost baggage while Insurance Company B will pay up to a max of €1,500. If you’d like to see how KennCo compares, please click here.

If you’d like to receive a quote today or find out more information about what’s covered under a KennCo travel insurance policy, call 01 409 2600.

Q. Driving Your Car in High Winds

A.

Driving in high winds can be a daunting experience for any driver. How can you drive more safely?

Car driving in high winds

During the winter months in Ireland, it is not uncommon to experience driving severe weather or high winds. The dangers of driving in these conditions can increase depending on what type of vehicle you are driving. In severe cases, it may be more advisable to postpone any unnecessary trips instead of braving the elements. High winds can result in difficult steering, debris and fallen trees. 

 

What type of car do you drive?

Car in Rain

The type of car that you drive can have an impact on how the wind affects your driving. Larger vehicles with higher sides are much more likely to be affected by crosswinds. So if you’re driving an SUV or MPV (people carriers) it’s important to be ready to act quickly, especially if you’re approaching an exposed stretch of road. It’s also important that you don’t overcompensate if the wind pushes your car in one direction. Overcompensating may cause you to cross over to the wrong side of the road or crash into the verge. 

Smaller cars may also be affected by the wind due to the lightness of the vehicle. If you are driving a small car, it’s important to be aware that your car may sway more easily on the road. 

How comfortable are you driving in high winds?

How are you driving? 

As the risk of your car being pushed by crosswinds increases, it is important that you maintain a strong grip on your steering wheel and drive at a slower speed than usual. If you are approaching bends or hills, caution should be exercised as there is an increased risk of fallen trees or debris being on the road which may require you to brake suddenly. It is also recommended that you keep extra distance between you and the car in front of you. 

Be aware that cyclists can be blown across your path, so keep as much distance as possible when overtaking. 

Driving in High Winds FAQ

How do I safely drive on windy roads?

Keep both hands on the wheel so you can react to any changing weather conditions.

What speed should I drive?

You should keep the speed down in case you have to react to anything that happens. It will make it less likely to be blown off by windy gusts.

How should I plan for driving on a windy road?

You should plan your route, check weather conditions, and check for any road closure regularly so you are best prepared for the drive ahead.

 

Don’t forget that if your car breaks down in this weather, you can avail of our 24 hr breakdown assistance service which is included with our car insurance policies as standard. 

Q. First Time Drivers Insurance

A.

Once you have passed your driving test, you will be ready to get out on the road, and whether you’ve found your first car or not, it’s time to think about getting car insurance for your first car. Doing your research and shopping around is essential when you are starting out. Understanding different types of cover and the features that are included in your policy will help you choose the best option for you.

What is a first-time driver?

A first-time driver is a new driver who has recently passed their driving test. Usually, these would be young drivers between 17-24, which is statistically one of the most expensive age groups to insure. First-time drivers can also consist of drivers who started driving later in their 20’s or 30’s. No matter what age a first-time driver is, they will be looking for their first car insurance quote on their own car and as the main driver on the policy.

Do first-time drivers need car insurance?

If you’re a first-time driver or a driver for years, you are required by law to have car insurance. Driving without insurance is punishable by a fine and penalty points, and you may also face court for prosecution which may result in jail time.

Can named driver experience affect my policy?

KennCo may offer first-time drivers discounts when taking out a policy in their own name for the first time. If you have been a named driver on a parent or someone else’s policy and are claims free, you may get a discount on your car insurance policy. KennCo takes previous driving experience into account so be sure to include this when filling out an online quote or if doing over the phone, tell an agent.

What can we offer first-time drivers?

We understand how hard it is to get insurance in your own name for the first time. We try to help our customers relieve some of that financial burden with competitive rates for young drivers. Flexible payment options are available with a monthly payment option so you can budget for your insurance premium rather than pay a lump sum upfront.

What type of insurance do I need as a first-time driver?

There are two types of cover that we offer our customers.

Comprehensive Car Insurance 

Comprehensive car insurance cover means that if you are involved in a car accident, we will cover the cost of repairing your car and, if necessary, the cost of repairing any damage or injury to third parties, if you are at fault. Read more.

 Third Party Fire & Theft Car Insurance

Third party fire and theft insurance means that if your car is damaged due to a fire or as a result of theft, you’ll be covered. It also covers any damage or injury to third parties due to an accident where you are at fault. Damage to your own car is not covered by this type of insurance. Read more.

As a first-time driver, what is your biggest concern regarding car insurance?

How can I get cheaper car insurance as a first-time driver? 

There are numerous ways that drivers can reduce their car insurance premium as a first-time driver. They include the following:

Limit Your Mileage: Cutting down the amount you drive will save you money. You’re less likely to have an accident when you’re driving on the roads less. 

Pay Annually: For some drivers paying monthly may be convenient. But, paying a lump sum upfront works out cheaper than paying monthly. Interest is factored into monthly direct debit payments, leading to a higher amount over the year. 

Buy a Smaller Car: Buying a car with a smaller engine is cheaper as they are safer to drive and are less likely to be either in an accident or robbed.

Keep Your Car Safe: Parking your car in a safe location away from thieves makes it less likely to be vandalised.

Pay a Higher Excess: If you decide to pay a higher excess fee, it can reduce your insurance premium. You will pay more if your car is involved in an accident. For example, if your policy has an excess of €250 and you have an accident, you will need to pay the first €250 of the cost of the claim on your policy. 

Add a Named Driver: Adding a more experienced driver to your policy tells insurers that it won’t just be you driving the car. You are more likely to drive safely with an experienced driver under the policy. Adding a spouse or parent who has driving experience will reduce your premium.

Q. Volvo Car Insurance Specialist

A.

Kennco.ie are a specialist insurance broker in Volvo car insurance. When buying a Volvo you are buying one of the safety cars but rest assured our customers they have the best possible insurance available as a member of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of Volvo owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your Volvo vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no claims bonus, and how securely you store your Volvo at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online. The process only takes a few minutes, and we’ll be able to provide you with a Volvo car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

 

  • Volvo C40 Recharge Volvo Car
  • Volvo XC40 Recharge
  • Volvo XC 90 Recharge
  • Volvo XC 60 Recharge
  • Volvo S90 Recharge
  • Volvo V60 Recharge
  • Volvo V60 Cross Country 
  • Volvo V60 
  • Volvo Alhambra
  • Volvo Exeo 

 

The History of the Volvo

The Volvo Group goes all the way goes back to 1927. The first Volvo car left the production line in Gothenburg. They only manufactured 280 cars that year. They released the first truck in 1928 called the “Series 1”. It was highly successful and saw attention from countries around Europe. They did not become a very well known brand until after WWII. 

Volvo acquired Pentaverken in 1935 who manufactured their engines. 

They built their first bus in 1934 named the B1. Volvo released their first sports car in 1960, the P1800 which was used in the Saint TV Series. They also began building aircraft engines in the 1940s. 

 Volvo released their first sports car in 1960, the P1800 which was used in the Saint TV Series. The Volvo Halifax Assembly plant was set up in 1963 which was the biggest assembly plant outside of  Sweden. 

In 1964 Volvo wanted to position itself in the family market. They released the Volvo 140 firstly as a saloon and then as an estate. 

Volvo Group sold its car division to Ford Motor Company in 2000. It was now in The Premier Automotive Group with the other brands like Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin. The same engineering resources would be used across all the different car brands. 

In 2001 Volvo bought out Renault vehicles and renamed them Renault Trucks. 

Ford then sold the Volvo Car Corporation in 2010. Geely Automobile of China purchased them after they purchased both Jaguar and Aston Martin in previous years. 

Volvo is very ambitious about car safety. Their CEO stated that their 2020 vision is that “no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car” This says a lot about what Volvo believe in. They put safety above everything. 

If you own a Volvo, how important is it to have specialist Volvo car insurance?

Benefits of Being a Volvo Owner

  1. Safety – Volvo is constantly innovating on its safety features. In 2020 they reduced the top speed of all their new cars to 180 km/h. They feel this will help towards their target to zero traffic fatalities. Their new cars feature IntelliSafe Assist which adapts cruise control, distance alert and pilot assist. 
  2. Sustainability – Volvo is on the road to being climate neutral by 2040. They are making a complete shift to electric cars and they say by 2030 they will be a fully electric car company. 
  3. Connectivity – Onboard the new Volvo cars are amazing connectivity between you and the car. They have luxurious audio systems which are one of the best in-car audio systems. They also have the Sensus Navigation to provide easy access for both front seat occupants. 

Volvo Insurance Quote 

Since 2008, We have been helping Volvo owners get quotes and insurance through KennCo. We’re fully committed to trying to get you the best possible insurance price for your Volvo today. Get a car insurance quote online today. 

Q. SEAT Car Insurance Specialists

A.

Kennco.ie are a specialist insurance broker in SEAT car insurance. We want our customers to know that they have the best possible insurance available as a member of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of SEAT owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your SEAT vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no claims bonus, and how securely you store your SEAT at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online anytime. The process only takes a few minutes, and we’ll be able to provide you with a SEAT car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

  • SEAT Ibiza Seat Leon Car
  • SEAT Leon
  • SEAT Leon Sportstourer
  • SEAT Leon FR
  • SEAT Arona
  • SEAT Ateca
  • SEAT Tarraco 
  • SEAT Alhambra
  • SEAT Exeo 
If you own a SEAT, how important is it to have specialist SEAT car insurance?

The History of the SEAT

SEAT is one of the more younger car manufacturers. In the last decade, there has been a steady increase in popularity in the SEAT range. 

SEAT was set up in 1950 by the Instituto de Industria (INI), a Spanish state industrial holding company. SEAT had to delay their production because of WWII, so in 1950, they got to work. In the early days, they already had built up an alliance with Fiat. Their first car SEAT launch was the 1400 model. Most of their parts were Spanish, and they emphasised using local Spanish suppliers. 

They were considered luxury cars back then and were highly-priced. SEAT did not have the expertise or knowledge to make their own car, so they essentially restyled Fiat models. They finally launched their one self developed model in 1963 with the SEAT 800. They became a hugely popular car in Spain.

SEAT ended their partnership with Fiat in 1982 after Fiat were unwilling to invest in the Spanish business. They then launched the SEAT Ronda, the first car they did not collaborate with Fiat.

Volkswagen then approached SEAT with an offer. They entered a partnership with them because they were looking to set up a manufacturing plant in Spain. 

One of their best selling models is the SEAT Ibiza, launched in 1984. Volkswagen acquired all of SEAT in 1990/ 

The SEAT Leon was then released in 1999, which featured an updated log. At this time, they also released the new SEAT Ibiza and SEAT Toledo. 

SEAT joined the Audi Brand Group, including Lamborghini and Audi, in 2002. They were all owned by the Volkswagen Group who was undergoing a restructure. 

SEAT today are hugely popular in Europe and Ireland. They have released some zero-emission sports coupes. Some of their newer models are a Plug-in-e-Hybrid showing their innovation and goals for the future. They are looking to manufacture more EVs and hybrids.

Benefits of Being a SEAT Owner

  1. Reliability – SEAT cars share a lot of parts with the rest of the VW Group, which are incredible and very reliable cars. The engines can go thousands of miles without a single problem. 
  2. Build Quality – SEAT has a very high build quality. They put a lot of emphasis on material quality. The attention to detail in SEAT cars is incredible, from the quality of the engine to the interior. 
  3. Safety – Safety is one of SEAT’s top concerns. They have a five-star EURO NCAP rating which shows how much they invest in their car’s strategy, as well as that they have built their cars with intelligent airbags that trigger optimal crash protection. 

SEAT Insurance Quote 

Kennco.ie has been helping insure SEAT owners since its establishment in 2008. We’re fully committed to trying to get you the best possible insurance price for your SEAT today. Get a car insurance quote online today or call us on 014092600.

Q. Renault Car Insurance Specialist

A.

Kennco.ie are a specialist insurance broker in Renault car insurance. We want our customers to know that they have the best possible insurance available as a member of Kennco.ie. 

We’re delighted to insure the hundreds of Renault owners we have as our customers and be the trusted company they turn to in times of crisis regarding their motoring needs. 

We can insure your Renault vehicle if it is roadworthy and legally allowed on Irish roads. Our quotations will differ based on your experience as a driver, the cost of your car, the features of your car, your no claims bonus, and how securely you store your Renault at your residence. 

You can get a car insurance quote online in 10 minutes. The process only takes a few minutes, and we’ll be able to provide you with a Renault car insurance quotation. 

Select your vehicle for a fast online quote

  • Renault ZOE Renault Clio Car
  • Renault CLIO
  • Renault CAPTUR
  • Renault ARKANA
  • Renault MEGANE
  • Renault MEGANE SPORT TOURER
  • Renault KADJARl
  • Renault CLIO E-TECH HYBRID
  • Renault CAPTUR E-TECH HYBRID
  • Renault MEGANE SPORT TOURER E-TECH HYBRID
If you own a Renault, how important is it to have specialist Renault car insurance?

The History of the Renault

Renault is one of the oldest car manufacturers. Renault was founded as Societe Renault Freres in 1899 by three of the Renault brothers. Their first Renault car was the Voiturette 1CV. In 1907 the majority of taxi’s in Paris and London were made by Renault. Renaults were seen as a luxury at the time. Both Louis and Marcel Renault raced, but Marcle, the other brother, was killed during the Paris-Madrid race in 1903. In 1909 Fernand died from health issues, and Louis was the only brother left. Soon after, the business was renamed Renault Automobile Company.

During WWI, Renault started manufacturing ammunition and engines for military aircraft. After the war ended, Renault expanded into farming and industrial machinery. 

The Nazis took France in WWII, but Louis Renault refused to manufacture tanks for the Germans. Instead, Renault produced trucks. 

Louis Renault was accused of colluding with the Germans. In 1944 he was arrested. He died while awaiting trial, and the company became nationalised after his death. 

After the war, they launched cars such as the Renault 4, Renault 10 and the upmarket Renault 16.

Renault launched their famous model, the Clio, in May 1990. It was the best selling car in Europe in the 1990s, which said a lot about the model Renault created. Since then, it has been one of their most popular cars. It was even voted car of the year again in 2006.

They were one of the leaders of electric vehicles in 2013. In 2016 in Europe, the Renault ZOE was the best selling electric car. Renault is now planning for the future and looking into manufacturing more electric vehicles and hybrid models. 

Benefits of Being a Renault Owner

  1. Reliable – Renault is known for being a reliable car. If they do have to be repaired, they usually do not cost much. Renault is very popular, so getting parts for the cars is very easy and keeps the repair cost low. 
  2. Great Cars – Renault produce some stunning looking cars with lovely interiors. The Renault Clio is an attractive design and has remained a popular model for nearly 40 years now, showing how good Renault is upgrading its current models.

Renault Insurance Quote 

Kennco.ie has been helping insure Renault owners since it’s inception in 2008. Our agents are fully committed to getting the best possible insurance price for your Renault today. Get a car insurance quote online today in a few simple steps.  If you would prefer to speak to an agent  call us on 014092600.