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40 associates and members gathered to listen to talks about a range of topics relating to the modern motor car.
The first speaker was Roger Hicks, our Chief Observer, who introduced IAM confident driving. He mentioned that many years ago a person would walk in front of the vehicle carrying a red flag to warn people of its presence.
Roger told us that he passed his test fifty years ago in a Vauxhall which had semaphore signals, which on the day of his test decided not to operate; so the examiner told him he wanted hand signals to be used. Unfortunately, as he commenced his test, the weather changed and decided to pour with rain, leaving Roger with a soaked arm; but he passed the test OK.
Ashley Behan, our Group Secretary, took over to discuss the new modern dashboard layouts, asking members if they were familiar with all the lights and their meanings. Most of the members were familiar with them and Ashley ran a slide show to point these out.
Roger then took over to speak about aquaplaning and what happened if the car was fitted with traction control – one of the lights on the dashboard mentioned in the previous session. This was discussed and a few questions were asked.
Also, the gear shift indicator was spoken about. If using third gear for 30 mph, this is illuminated, suggesting that you need to go up a gear – which is not a good idea if road conditions do not allow.
Blind spot was also spoken about, as this senses the presence of vehicles near to the area, indicating cars, motorcycles, etc are close.
Parking sensors were also touched upon as a lot of motors are fitted with this facility. Also, a lot of modern vehicles are now fitted with electric handbrakes.
Ashley then took over to discuss automated driving, saying we are possibly about twenty years away from this happening; but this is under development.
Roger Hicks asked our Vice-Chairman, Ken Green, if he would present a certificate to one of our associates who had passed his Advanced Driving test. A round of applause accompanied this presentation.
Tony Lofts, our Newsletter Distributor, organised the raffle.
Full Member, Alison Westwood, assisted by Julia Vause, our Treasurer, presented a wonderful spread which was much enjoyed by all.