What does the coronavirus mean for van drivers?
Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19 is having a significant impact on every aspect of our daily lives. The virus has taken thousands of lives on a global scale and must be at the forefront of everyone's minds, there is also a serious economic impact in the UK and globally. Vansdirect takes a look at the impact of coronavirus on van drivers and provides some tips to help you manage in these increasingly difficult times.
The automotive industry has been hit hard, with the likes of Ford, Nissan and Groupe PSA (Citroen, Peugeot and Vauxhall) pausing car and van production across Europe. Luckily, Vansdirect has stock o these vehicles so if you're on the hunt for a new van, look no further. Meanwhile the UK government has advised against non-essential travel and crowded places, this includes public transport. This means looking after your van in these tough times is essential.
In this blog Vansdirect advises what the coronavirus means for the automotive industry and for individual van drivers, you may also want to check out the NHS website for the latest advice on keeping yourself, people around you and your family safe.
Van servicing
Will I be able to get my van serviced during the coronavirus pandemic? The likelihood is that you'll be able to book your van in for a service, maintenance or repair work, but you may have to wait longer for an appointment or travel further for that appointment.
Fuel shortages
Will the coronavirus pandemic cause a fuel shortage? Brian Madderson, chairman of the Petrol Retailers Association believes motorists have nothing to worry about in this area, with fuel sales down 60% in Italy due to the virus outbreak, with large numbers of buyers avoiding petrol stations. Fuel sales in urban areas are expected to remain steady as many swap public transport for cars and vans, however expect a slump at service stations as less embark on longer journeys.
Petrol station hygiene
We urge motorists to use gloves when filling up at a petrol station and use the pay at pump option if possible to avoid face to face contact with others. Petrol pump nozzles offer a real risk of transferring the virus so be careful.
How to clean my van
Like commercial buildings or houses which may have seen an infection, it may be wise to deep clean your van if someone with the virus has been in it. You may be relying on household cleaning products to do the trick. Check what is suitable to use on plastics, upholstery or leather. Pay special attention to particular touchpoints such as steering wheel, radio dials, handbrake and seatbelts and clean after every journey. You should also wash your hands or use a hand santiser before entering the van.
Impact on van leasing
Those who are experiencing financial difficulty as a result of the coronavirus and are struggling with their van leasing payments are advised by the Finance and Leasing Association to contact your van finance lender as soon as possible and assistance may be available.
New vans for sale
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