54
14-20 FEB 2014
motoring
Brian Deller Author of Motoring in Spain
Motoring news snippets WE ARE advised that the EU is suggesting that all vehicles are fitted with a remotely operated electronic switch so that the engines can be switched off. The idea is that in the event of a criminal trying to escape from a police chase, pursuit police can immobilise the vehicle safely so not only is the chase over, but also other road users are protected in the event of a crash.
Austin maxi
With this in mind it is an excellent idea but let us consider how else this device can be used: Any owner who has not paid their annual taxes on their vehicle can also be immobilised. This includes those who have officially taken the vehicle off the road for long term renovation. Speeders going through a speed trap can be switched off. Of course the speed trap can be controlled by a GPS system incorporated in the vehicle so there does not have to be an actual camera at the roadside. Anyone who overstays their time in a paying, parking
area can be switched off until payment is made. If you report your car as stolen you could do it quickly so it could be stopped before it is loaded onto a low loader and transported out of the country or stripped for spares. The mind boggles at the possibilities, except that there are always ways of overcoming electronic devices. However, how would these devices be fitted to the older cars where older fuel and ignition systems are the norm? The UK historic classification moves to 1974. If you have a classic British vehicle first registered before 1974, it now qualifies for zero VED taxes. Full details are at: http://classics.honestjohn. co.uk/top-10s/top-10-the-class-of-1973/ In my experience there will not be many British ones that can qualify as at that time many cars were rusted out of existence within three years of daily use. I had an Austin maxi, basically an excellent family car but after realising that the car body was rusting away under that paint, I sold it and two years later it was scrap. The price I was paid reflected the deteriorating condition and I advised the new owner, to get it completely paint-stripped and repainted but he ignored the advice. More again soon: keep warm and safe - the police authorities are desperate for income.
There is much more detailed information on all motoring subjects in my book. Brian Juan (John) Deller, Malaga, author, ‘Motoring in Spain’ www.spainvia.com. Tel: 666 888 870 Brian Deller, author, book Motoring in Spain, ISBN No 978 84 611 9278 6. Shops’ addresses in my web site at: www.spainvia.com/bookshopslist.htm