Hybrid cars have been making waves for a while now, and here at House of Cars we frequently stock these vehicles, but if you're wondering whether they’re actually worth the hype, especially when it comes to saving money at the pump, you’re not alone.

With the cost of gas seeming to always be on the rise, more Albertans are looking into used hybrid cars as a way to keep more cash in their wallets. But are they really worth it? Let’s find out.

What Makes a Hybrid Car Different?

Before we get into the savings part, it’s important to know how hybrid cars work. A hybrid car uses a combination of gasoline and electricity to power the vehicle. This means you can use the traditional gas engine when needed, but when conditions allow, the car switches to electric power, using less fuel overall.

The result? Better fuel efficiency and fewer trips to the gas station. For folks in Alberta, who spend a lot of time driving between cities or cruising on highways, these fuel savings can definitely start to add up.

The Gas Savings Breakdown

Now for the part you really care about; how much can you actually save on gas with a hybrid?

On average, hybrid cars can get you about 20-30% better fuel efficiency than their traditional gas-powered counterparts. Let’s say you're driving something like a Toyota Prius, which can get around 58 MPG in the city. Compare that to a regular gas-powered vehicle that might get about 30 MPG, and you can already see the savings.

If you’re commuting daily or taking long trips across Alberta, especially from Edmonton to Calgary or up to Jasper for a weekend getaway, a used hybrid car can make a serious difference in how much you’re spending at the pump. Over time, that can add up to hundreds, if not thousands, in savings.

Are There Trade-Offs?

As great as those gas savings sound, hybrid cars aren't for everyone. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Upfront Costs: Hybrid cars tend to be a bit pricier than traditional gas cars, especially if you're buying new. But, the good news is that used hybrid cars are becoming more common and can be more budget-friendly while still offering that sweet fuel efficiency.
2. Battery Life: The battery in a hybrid car can last a long time, usually up to 8-10 years. However, if you're buying a used hybrid, it's a good idea to check the condition of the battery, as replacing it can be costly.
3. Maintenance: While hybrid cars generally have fewer mechanical issues than gas-only cars (since they rely less on the gas engine), repairs on hybrid-specific components like the battery or electrical systems might require specialised service, which could be a little pricier.

Is It Worth It for Alberta Drivers?

Alberta’s driving conditions vary widely depending on where you are. If you’re sticking to city driving in places like Calgary or Edmonton, hybrid cars can be a fantastic option thanks to their fuel savings, especially in stop-and-go traffic. But what about those winter drives through the Rockies or long trips across the Prairies?

Most hybrids now offer all-wheel drive (AWD) and have plenty of power for Alberta’s varying road conditions. Plus, with newer hybrid models and even used hybrid cars coming with improved battery life and better cold-weather performance, they’re more practical for year-round driving in the province than ever before.

Will a Hybrid car be your next vehicle?

For those doing a lot of city driving or looking to save on long highway trips, hybrids offer significant fuel savings and can make a real impact on your budget over time.

That being said, it’s always worth considering the trade-offs, especially the upfront costs and potential maintenance needs. But with more used hybrid cars on the market, the entry price is becoming more reasonable, making it a win-win for anyone wanting to cut down on gas expenses without sacrificing driving power.

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re ready to get into a used hybrid car, and see if they’re the right fit for your lifestyle, check out House of Cars' inventory of used hybrids. We’ve got a range of makes and models to choose from, perfect for handling Alberta’s roads and helping you save big at the pump.

The Toyota Rav4 is one of the most searched cars in Alberta. So, what’s the hype about? House of Cars breaks down why the RAV4 is such a hit among drivers in the province and why it might be your next perfect ride.

1. Built for Alberta Weather

The weather in Alberta can be all over the place, from snowy roads in winter to muddy back roads in the spring. The Toyota RAV4 is well-suited for these challenges, with many models offering All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard. Whether you’re navigating icy roads in Calgary or taking a road trip through Jasper’s rugged terrain, the RAV4 has your back.

Plus, the RAV4 Hybrid gives you the option for better fuel efficiency without compromising that AWD capability, which is ideal when gas prices are on the rise.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key features that make the Toyota RAV4 ideal for Alberta's unpredictable weather:

• All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Available in many models, providing better traction on icy, snowy, or muddy roads.
• High Ground Clearance: Perfect for rough terrains and navigating unpaved roads in Alberta’s rural areas.
• Hybrid Options: Fuel-efficient without sacrificing AWD capability, making it great for long road trips or daily commutes.
• Rugged Design: Built tough to handle Alberta’s changing weather, from snowstorms to spring mud.

2. Spacious Yet Compact

One of the main reasons the Toyota RAV4 is a top search in Alberta, be it new or used cars, is its balance of size. It’s big enough to fit your gear, groceries, or camping equipment, but still compact enough to handle city driving. Whether you're running errands in Edmonton or packing up for a weekend adventure in Banff, the RAV4 provides ample room without feeling bulky.

The rear seats also fold down flat, giving you even more space for those big hauls. So, if you’re someone who loves the outdoors but still needs an SUV for everyday life, the RAV4’s versatility is hard to beat.

Here’s why the Toyota RAV4 offers the perfect balance of space and compactness:

• Spacious Interior: Big enough for groceries, gear, or camping equipment without feeling oversized.
• Compact Size: Perfect for city driving and fitting into tight spaces in places like Edmonton.
• Fold-Flat Rear Seats: Offers more cargo space for larger hauls or road trips.
• Versatile Design: Great for outdoor adventures in Banff or everyday errands, making it ideal for both city and nature lovers.

3. Reliability That Lasts

Toyota has a rep for building reliable cars, and the Toyota RAV4 is no exception. This SUV is known for running smoothly for years, making it a great option if you're looking for a used model. You get peace of mind knowing that you’re investing in a vehicle that will stand the test of time, which is something we all want when we’re dropping hard-earned cash on a car.

Plus, with Toyota’s widespread network, getting parts or service when needed is never a hassle, even in more remote parts of Alberta.

4. Fuel Efficiency Without Sacrificing Power

Alberta’s wide open spaces mean long drives are part of life. So, you want a vehicle that won’t drain your wallet at the pump. The Toyota RAV4 is impressively fuel-efficient, especially with the hybrid models. You get the best of both worlds: solid performance and fewer trips to the gas station. With gas prices on the rise, this benefit alone makes the RAV4 worth considering.

Here’s a summary:

• Standard RAV4: Around 27 MPG city and 35 MPG highway
• RAV4 Hybrid: Roughly 41 MPG city and 38 MPG highway
• Fuel Efficiency: Both models offer fewer trips to the pump, perfect for Alberta’s long drives
• Hybrid Option: Save on gas without giving up power

5. Safety First

We all know how unpredictable Alberta’s roads can be. That’s where the RAV4’s safety features really shine. Most models come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features are not just fancy add-ons, they're designed to keep you safe, whether you’re driving through city traffic or taking a road trip through the Rockies.

These are some of the sought after features:

• Toyota Safety Sense: Comes with most models, ensuring peace of mind on unpredictable Alberta roads.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you drift out of your lane without signaling.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Kicks in when the system detects a possible collision.
• Perfect for Alberta: Whether in city traffic or cruising through the Rockies, these safety features have you covered.

6. Strong Resale Value

If you’re looking for a used Toyota RAV4, you’ll quickly notice that they hold their value really well. This is a big deal when it comes time to sell or trade-in your vehicle down the line. Toyota's reputation for quality means that people are willing to pay more for a used RAV4, so it’s an investment that pays off.

Ready to Check Out Our Toyota Inventory?

Toyota makes amazing and reliable cars. That’s why so many people are searching for a Toyota in Calgary, Edmonton, Airdrie, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Leduc, Cochrane and other places.

If you're ready to see what all the fuss is about, swing by House of Cars and take a look at our selection of used Toyota models. We've got options to fit every budget and lifestyle. Plus, with our easy financing options, you can drive away in your next Toyota without breaking the bank.

Visit our website or stop by today to check out the latest Toyota deals in Alberta!

When it comes to buying a used car, there are many factors to consider. You want to make sure you're getting a reliable vehicle that fits your budget and lifestyle. One key factor that you should never overlook is the CarFax vehicle history report. A vehicle history report is a record of a car's past that can reveal important information about its condition and reliability. In this post, we'll explore why vehicle history reports are so important when buying a used car from House of Cars in Calgary, AB.

Reveals Accidents and Damage History:
A CarFax vehicle history report can reveal if a car has been involved in an accident or has had any previous damage. This information is important because it can give you an idea of the extent of the damage and if it has been properly repaired. Cars that have been in major accidents or have significant damage history may have ongoing issues that could be costly to repair in the future. By reviewing the vehicle history report, you can make an informed decision on whether or not to purchase the car.

Helps Verify Mileage:
The CarFax vehicle history report also provides information on a car's mileage history. This can help verify the mileage on the odometer and ensure that it has not been tampered with. If a car's mileage is significantly lower than what is indicated on the odometer, it could be a sign of fraudulent activity, and you may want to reconsider purchasing the car.

Provides Title Information:
The vehicle history report can also reveal important information about a car's title history. This includes if the car has a salvage title, which means it was declared a total loss by an insurance company. A salvage title can lower the car's resale value and may indicate that it has had significant damage or issues in the past. Knowing a car's title history can help you make a more informed decision on whether or not to purchase it.

Gives Peace of Mind:
Ultimately, a vehicle history report can give you peace of mind when buying a used car from House of Cars. By reviewing the report, you can identify any potential issues or concerns and make an informed decision on whether or not to proceed with the purchase. It's a small investment that can save you money and headaches in the long run.

At House of Cars, we provide a complimentary CarFax vehicle history report for all of our used cars. We believe in transparency and want our customers to have all the information they need to make an informed decision. By providing a CarFax vehicle history report, we hope to give our customers peace of mind and confidence in their purchase.

In conclusion, when buying a used car from House of Cars in Calgary, AB, it's important to review the vehicle history report. This report can reveal important information about a car's condition and reliability and help you make an informed decision. If you have any questions or concerns about the vehicle history report or the used cars we offer, please don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable staff. We're here to help you find the perfect car for your needs and budget.

What Should I Do Next?:

Volkswagen Beetles cruised the streets for over 80 years, but production ended in 2019.

Let’s talk more about the history of this iconic vehicle.

A Special Commission

In the 30s, Adolf Hitler commissioned The Beetle. The goal was an affordable, practical and reliable vehicle. As a result, the “People’s Car” (volks wagen in german) was born thanks to the design of Ferdinand Porsche.

The Beetle became a symbol in the 60s, but in the late 1970s, their production in Germany stopped. But as a tribute, they released the New Beetle in 1998.

Let’s get deeper into the different models through the years.

From 1940 to 1950

After WWII, the German factory was controlled by the British. By the end of 1946, it manufactured more than ten thousand cars; a year later, it sold a million.

Almost a decade later, two copywriters from the New York advertising agency “Doyle Dane Bernbach” created the iconic Volkswagen ad. The ad consisted of a tiny image of a Beetle in a plain white space with the phrase “Think small.”

Even though the Beetle was so small, the ad was big. Forty years later, it was awarded the best advertising campaign of the 20^th century.

Welcome to the 70s

In 1971 the Super Beetle was introduced to the market. This new model had a new front suspension and a bigger trunk.

By the following year, Volkswagen set a record as the best-selling car in the world, beating the Ford Model T that held the title for over 40 years. By February of 1972, The Beetle number 15,007,034 was assembled.

A Major Update

In 1998 there was a significant change in the production lines related to the Type 1, which practically turned the Beetle into a Volkswagen Golf.

The car had 115 horsepower and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and the dashboard had a small vase.

Time passed, and sales started to decline in 2013, so about five years later, Volkswagen announced the Beetle's last ride, which was the end of its production.

You Can Still Get Your Beetle! Visit House of Cars Calgary

Maybe you like classics, and if you are looking for great deals and cars for sale in Alberta, visit House of Cars Calgary!

At our Calgary dealership, you’ll find unique used cars for sale, just like a Beetle! We have some of the most recent models, and this is your chance to get your hands on this iconic vehicle.

Talk to one of our salespeople, discover more of our vehicles for sale and get access to our fantastic financing options. If you are interested, you can also be part of our credit rebuilding program!

You’ll leave our dealership with the car of your dreams while still taking care of your financial health. This means you can enjoy your car as you keep everything within your budget.

Click here to visit our site!

If a car fulfills its purpose of moving me around, why would I consider a van?

This is a valid question, especially if you don’t move a lot of people or heavy equipment for work or a hobby.

Well, in a few words, vans are an excellent option because they are bigger, meaning they offer more space.

Regardless of your lifestyle, a van will offer more space, making it an excellent option for big families, offering comfort and a place for everyone.

Vans are also great for traveling with family or friends because of the same benefit, space. Comfort for a long trip is vital, and room for luggage is the most, especially if you travel with people who can’t pack lightly.

Of course, choosing another type of vehicle over a regular car can bring up a lot of concerns—nothing to worry about.

We are here to help you ease those concerns.

Higher Carbon Emissions

Worrying about the environment? It is good to care about that, but if you want a van, there are always options.

Not long ago, EVs (electric vehicles) arrived on the market. As with any new product, their capabilities were initially limited, and the battery capacity only offered the possibility of making short trips, especially when talking about electric vans.

Their batteries have improved significantly. A couple of months ago, an EV (the BrightdropZevo 600) broke the record of the longest trip with a single charge made by an electric delivery van.

Nowadays, different brands are removing their old diesel vans and changing them to electric vehicles. So, give it a few years, and you’ll see electric vans everywhere.

Higher Insurance

One might think that because the vehicle is bigger, then the insurance is higher. The insurance might be higher, but it depends on your lifestyle and what the van is for. If the van will become your new personal vehicle for you to move around town comfortably, don’t worry. The insurance is practically the same as a car’s.

But if you are using the van for work, then consider this:

Think about all the work-related assets you’ll be carrying in your van; all your equipment and materials will be there. That means the insurance cost will be higher for it to cover the extra value of the equipment.

Looking For An Affordable Van In Canada?

Because vans are bigger than other vehicles, they tend to be more expensive. But that doesn’t mean you can’t afford them if you are interested in getting one.

There are different ways to find lower price vans, like searching for smaller vans and preowned ones.

The other option is to find good car finance or a good car loan regardless of if the credit score is good or bad. So, if you are looking for an excellent financing option, visit House of Cars Calgary.

Many car dealerships in Canada have difficulty with loans if the credit score is bad or not perfect. But for us, that’s not an issue.

We have excellent car loans and financial plans that perfectly adapt to your budget. If you are concerned about your credit score, you’ll immediately become part of our credit rebuild program.

This means you’ll get your dream car and enjoy every second of driving it, as you quickly pay it off while your credit score improves.

Click here to learn more.

What to do about your car payments during the COVID-19 Pandemic

As the novel Coronavirus known as Covid-19 continues to spread rapidly and risk our everyday normalities, the Canadian unemployment rate has skyrocketed due to the ongoing crisis, leaving millions of Canadians unemployed through no fault of their own. 

Even though the Federal and Provincial governments have provided aid for those who have been affected by Covid-19, many Canadians find themselves squeezed financially. 

Depending on the size of a family, or the collective total of a household’s monthly expenses, the financial support programs in place may not be enough. 

Refinancing Your Vehicle May Be An Option

What can be done to ease the stress of bills that are too difficult to pay at the moment? 

Many families and singles are reviewing their finances to determine what can be done to lower their cost of living. Apart from rent and mortgages, vehicle payments are probably going to be the second-highest monthly expense for an individual or family. 

There are currently many auto lenders that have developed relief measures in response to the pandemic affecting millions of Canadians, such as deferred payments on vehicles, which means payments will be payable at the end of the term with accrued interest. 

However, another option may be to refinance your vehicle. Although this is mainly successful if your credit score is favourable or has improved since purchasing your vehicle, it is worth a shot to inquire about the possibilities, as there are many benefits to refinancing during such trying times. 

• A lower interest rate

It is possible for interest rates to be significantly improved for a person working hard to build or rebuild credit, however, if it only improves by a small decrease in percentage, there is still great value in a decrease, as it can save a driver thousands of dollars in the long run. 

2. Loan term extensions

By refinancing and extending the loan term by several years, monthly payments can be reduced to a more affordable and overall comfortable payment obligation during a time when millions of Canadians have lost their employment income. Keep in mind that you may be paying more in total interest.  

3. Remove co-signer and gain independence

Refinancing is a perfect opportunity to remove a co-signer and grant more independence to a person who would not qualify for a vehicle loan without a co-signer.  

There aren’t a lot of steps to take if one wishes to go this route. Simply contact your dealership to inquire if you qualify to lower your payments as well as lower your interest rate. Thet will more than likely take a look at your credit to determine if it is possible. 

If you are, from there, your dealership should be able to go through the processes and help you acquire a more manageable payment arrangement. 

Now, seeing if you qualify for a lower payment may not be enough for some individuals or families, especially when there are multiple vehicles in a household. 

Further Assistance Through House Of Cars

As our economy and daily lives begin to normalize, getting back on your feet may require some rethinking of your finances. Even budgeting may be considered for most families while we are in recovery mode. There are a couple of programs that House of Cars offers that may help out further:

1. If it is just not feasible to keep two or more vehicles at the moment, House of Cars can sell your unwanted vehicle for you with the Park and Sell program. 

This program is perfect for people who simply do not want to deal with the hassle and stress of having to sell a car around everything else a busy day or family requires. 

We will fully inspect your vehicle, detail it inside and out, market your car to thousands of daily online visitors. 

That’s not all! We will also offer warranty and financing to your customer, so it makes the buy more intriguing to prospective buyers. 

We will handle everything, so you can get back to doing the things that matter most. Just visit our website and fill out the form under Park & Sell, and we will be in touch with you soon. 

1.  As our country continues to deal with the current pandemic, we simply do not know how long this will last, and how long our lives will be altered. 

With kids home from schools, things in and around the House will have probably changed quite a bit. 

Parents may find themselves having to take the kids with them to run essential errands, especially single parents, or those who have little family in the same city.  

You may have even been looking into getting a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle that will fit the whole family. House of Cars will sit down with you and discuss all your options that will fit into your new budget. 

If you have questions or concerns, simply give us a call, and we will be happy to discuss options that will best suit your situation.

1. As mentioned above, refinancing may be a great option to help lower months costs. If you have purchased your vehicle through House of Cars, be sure to give us a call or even contact us online for more information about refinancing. 

We Stand With You, Alberta! 

As our government begins to reopen the economy, remember to be safe out there and continue to stay the course by following the recommendations of our medical experts. It would be a great shame to undo the amazing work our Province has done so far. 

Through collective efforts, we can continue to limit and mitigate the risk of spread, which is why House of cars has now opened to the community under regular business hours, and your health is our top priority during COVID. Frequent sanitation and social distancing measures are in place for your safety.  

Here at House of Cars, our thoughts are with those who have been affected by Covid-19, and we wish you all the best as we get through these challenging times. Remember, we are always willing to have a chat to see what can be done to help or click here to contact us online. Stay safe, friends! 

Are the drug-impaired driving penalties for Canadian cannabis users serious? Strict regulations are in effect, and you’ll be surprised how life-altering the penalties are.

We’ll go over some of the things you need to know about cannabis use and the new drug-impaired laws in Canada.

• Dangers of Drug-impaired Driving
• Common Side Effects
• What happens to your body while driving high?
• Keep Safe and Plan Ahead
• Drug-impaired Driving Laws and Penalties
• Respect Others and Respect Yourself

Canada, the true north, strong, and free. Once again, our great nation is in the lead for progressive change, by being the first and so far the only country in North America to legalize the use of marijuana nation-wide!

We lead the world in an incredible mind-expanding journey in October of 2018 when cannabis products were legalized throughout Canada..

Hobby smokers and medical users alike rejoiced, as the stigma behind recreational and even medical marijuana use began to recede and become more socially acceptable.

However, the use of this celebrity plant came with a lot of strict laws as well as severe punishment if the rules were ever broken.

The strictest laws and harshest punishments fall under all drivers across the country. In a perfect world, every single person in Canada has read and memorized the new restrictions that come with the legalization of weed.

But of course, it is safe to say that there are users out there that are not as familiarized with these new laws as they should be.

Dangers of Drug-impaired Driving 

Cannabis can be incredibly beneficial for recreational use as well as medicinal use. There are many benefits, such as aid in relaxation after a long day, suppress anxiety, and even pain relief.

However, marijuana can alter your senses, as well as your ability to think or even move as you usually would sober.

Common Side Effects

Each strain may induce different types of side effects, and the severity of the side effect may also differ depending on how high the THC content is and how each individual person’s body reacts to it.

nonetheless, a few side effects may include, but are not limited to:

• Paranoia
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Disorientation
• Sleepiness and Lethargy
• Heightened anxiety

Although severe side effects are uncommon, the common side effects can be dangerous depending on what activities a person chooses to do while under the influence.

When consuming cannabis, It is of the utmost importance to ensure you are in a safe and familiar place with people you trust in order to protect yourself and the people around you at all times.

Furthermore, it is utterly crucial to ensure you take precautionary measures and do not get behind the wheel when high or smoke while driving.

What happens to your body while driving high?

There are rumors that state a person can drive better while high. This is simply a very damaging rumor, as in-depth studies have proven quite the opposite.

• Studies show that reaction times are slower, which obviously means that making decisions quickly can be difficult until it is too late.

• Drivers are unable to fully concentrate on the multiple activities and moving objects on the road; this means that impaired drivers may not notice signal lights, road signs, passing vehicles, or pedestrians while focusing on something else.

• Motor skills are profoundly affected, and driving in a straight line and at an appropriate speed within your designated lane can prove to be quite challenging and deadly.

Keep Safe and Plan Ahead

According to nation-wide police reports submitted to the government in 2015, a total of 72,039 impaired driving incidents. 122 of the incidents reported resulted in death. Approximately 3000 were drug-related impaired driving, resulting in 7 deaths.

Now that marijuana is legal, these stats have, in fact, increased, and the percentage of drug-related car crashes that have killed Canadians exceeds the deadly car crashes related to drunk driving.

Now more than ever, it is essential that each and every one of us takes personal responsibility to keep ourselves and the people around us safe.

Furthermore, if you see a vehicle struggling to keep control on the road and will not pull over, be sure to contact local police while following distracted driving laws set in place.

It really is up to every driver on the road to help keep each other safe.

If you need to get from one place to another while being high, make sure you have a DD (designated driver) or Uber on speed dial.

There are plenty of ways to get a DD to take you home safely, like a family member, friend, an Uber, or taxi.

If you are the DD and find yourself in a less than suitable state to drive, there are even designated driving services available like Drive Smart Calgary. DSC specializes in transporting individuals and their vehicles home.

Drug-impaired Driving Laws and Penalties

Alright, so we have covered the obvious dangers of driving under the influence; now we’ll cover the laws and hefty consequences of getting caught behind the wheel while high.

In Canada, the leading criminal cause of death is, in fact, driving while impaired, and the percentage involving drugs is quickly rising. It is no wonder why the ramifications of engaging in such an act are so heavy.

It is illegal to smoke or consume cannabis if you are under the age of majority, which could be 18 or 19, depending on your province.

It is also illegal to take part in marijuana while driving or driving while high. Do not let passengers smoke marijuana while you are driving, as the smoke inhalation of another user may cause you to feel the effects of a high.

Below we have listed a less detailed description of the penalties involved with driving while high. Keep in mind that the consequences may be even more severe, depending on the gravity of the offense.

Along with the penalties listed below, your driver’s license may also be revoked.

Penalties

      1.First offense:

• Mandatory minimum fine of $1000
• Maximum imprisonment of 10 years

2. Second offense:

• Mandatory minimum fine of $1000
• Minimum of 30 days of imprisonment
• Maximum imprisonment of 10 years

3. Third offense:

• Mandatory minimum fine of $1000
• Minimum of 120 days of imprisonment
• Maximum imprisonment of 10 years

4. Refusal to comply with demand for samples: 

• First offense will lead to a mandatory minimum fine of $2000

• Second offense will lead to a mandatory minimum of 30 days imprisonment and a maximum of 10 years.

• Third offense will lead to a mandatory 120 days imprisonment and a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.

5. Cause bodily harm: 

• Maximum imprisonment of 14 years

6. Cause death: 

• Maximum of life imprisonment

So, if it isn’t evident by now, driving under the influence is against the law and can result in a catastrophic series of events.

The best way to avoid criminal charges, or dramatically impacting your life or the life of others, is to set yourself up for success by following the safety guidelines mentioned earlier.

Respect Others and Respect Yourself

Police statistics prove how quickly things can become out of control and how lives can change forever.

Please do not drive while high. Your safety and the safety of others are not worth experimenting with how good your driving skills are under the influence.

You, your relatives, the people you love, and the people in your community should be able to go home to families every day.

Here at House of Cars, we love and worry about our community. We believe that safety is everyone’s responsibility, and we urge the citizens of this great nation to care and respect each other by looking out for one another and practicing safe driving habits.

If you or someone you know is struggling with problematic use of marijuana and marijuana products, please contact your general physician.

Side effect references have been provided by reputable sources such as madd.ca and leafly.com, among others. Click here for a complete and detailed list of sources/references/studies directly related to driving while impaired (cannabis). 

This article was created for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or legal advice. Always seek the advice of a professional. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website or anywhere online. Reliance on any information provided by houseofcarscalgary.com, employees, contracted writers or medical professionals presenting content for publication to House of Cars Inc. is solely at your own risk. Links to educational content not created by House of Cars are taken at your own risk. House of Cars Inc. is not responsible for the claims of external websites and education companies.

House of Cars Crowned Top Choice Award Winner for Top Choice Best Used Car Dealership in the 2020 Top Choice Award Survey. 

Calgary, Alberta -- Feb 2020 -- Top Choice Awards has announced the 2020 Top Choice Award Winners, your city’s most trusted businesses. We at House of Cars are proud to announce that we have been crowned the winner for Top Choice used car dealership of 2020 in the city of Calgary. House of Cars has set new standards for quality, service, image, value and professionalism. This could not have been done without the dedication of our team and customers, and for that, we are very grateful to you all. 

We truly appreciate this recognition and the association with the exclusive Top Choice Award circle of winners. Winning the Top Choice Award is one of the most coveted endorsements a business can receive, and this victory is a testament of our dedication to the consistent pursuit of total customer satisfaction. 

We at House of Cars would like to thank you for voting us your Top Choice of 2020 and we trust to always have your support. Cheers to a great year ahead! 

Sincerely, House of Cars team 

On behalf of our team we would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all of the winners and nominees of the 2020 Top Choice Award Survey. 

About the Top Choice Award Top Choice Awards is an International market research firm, focusing on the experience of the customers. Since 2005, winners are released annually to recognize and showcase the most trusted and appealing service organizations and businesses in over 28 markets surveyed. Top Choice Awards collects and reviews the opinions of thousands of customers annually. The results of those studies are used by companies to improve customer satisfaction and business development while their winner lists provide customers the power to enjoy Top quality experiences through making educated purchase decisions. 

5 Best Cars For Canadian Winters

Are you tired of winter driving? We've selected 5 best cars for Canadian winters that are safe and tough enough to take on the unruly Canadian roads.

No matter what part of Canada you reside in, we all have one thing in common: every October...we all dread the wintery roads ahead. Certain parts of Canada have way more snowfall throughout the year than others, but that doesn’t stop us from being world-famous for our snowy winters.

The last thing you want is your car to die in the middle of a cold snow storm...ew. So Canadians tend to look for specific features to help make it through the winter such as bigger vehicles, AWD and newer models proven to be reliable and safe.

In this article, we will explore some of the best cars to have on your side during the often harsh Canadian winter months.

5. Jeep Wrangler

Fifth on our list is the mighty Jeep Wrangler. This bad boy is one of the most capable all-weather SUVs out there. Snow, icy roads, off-roading, it doesn’t matter what you’re doing, the Jeep Wrangler will not disappoint.

• All Wheel Drive or 4WD comes in handy for tough, slippery roads by providing power to all four wheels as opposed to the two front or two back tires.

• Anti-Lock Braking System or ABS prevents the wheels from locking during a break allowing the vehicle to maintain directional control. The traction control will also work in conjunction with the ABS to maintain your stability on problematic winter roads.

• The wrangler has excellent ground clearance, so you are able to stay well above the snow, preventing you from getting stuck.

Whether you are single or not, this Jeep is a great choice if you're looking for a safe, reliable, fun, and sleek looking car for the winter or any season. These usually have a higher ticket price on them, but worth every penny if your pockets can handle the cost.

>>Click here to check out pre-owned Jeep Wrangler's for sale<<

4. Ford Fusion

Ford Fusion comes in at 4th on our list. Despite having low ground clearance, this car can gracefully hold its own on icy and snowy roads. It is equipped with AWD and safety technology like the Ford co-pilot system to keep you safe during any season.

As a bonus, this vehicle is also fuel-efficient, which, of course, is an asset in slower moving traffic during the winter months. This sedan is comfortable and surprisingly roomy, making it perfect for singles, couples, or a small family looking for a safe and smooth ride.

Apart from being comfortable, reliable, and economical, the Ford Fusion is also quite gentle on your wallet. This is an affordable vehicle to get into, especially taking into account all of the great features. Talk about getting a lot of value for your money.

>>Click here to check out pre-owned Ford Fusion's for sale<<

3. Toyota Sienna

Third in line is the Toyota Sienna! So, maybe you need to go with a van to be able to fit the fam jam. That doesn’t mean you have to compromise superior maneuverability on icy and snow-covered roads for family practicality.

The Sienna offers AWD, which is a bit of a rarity for a minivan to begin with. Furthermore, there are plenty of safety features such as Lane Tracing Assist or LTA, which keeps the car centered in its lane, even when the lines are not visible. Now that will give you peace of mind every time you pack the family up.

Toyota has done a great job keeping the safety and security of families in mind. This minivan is the perfect Canadian winter vehicle for a larger family.

>>Click here to apply for financing on a Toyota Sienna<<

2. Toyota Rav 4

At two, we have Toyota on the list once again with the Rav4, a smaller SUV with plenty of space for a small family.

This vehicle has great ground clearance to stay well above the snow with a fairly advanced AWD system, as this car is built for a little bit more than your everyday driving duties, such as light off-roading.

The RAV4 is a very capable and reliable daily driver with plenty of safety features to keep you safe during the winter.

As an added bonus, this car has a rugged and luxurious look both inside and out. You’ll feel like a boss taking the family out in the snow in this gorgeous ride.

>>Click here to check out pre-owned Toyota Rav 4 for sale<<

1. Nissan Armada

Well deserved number one! The Nissan Armada, a four-door full-size SUV capable of tackling any snowstorm like a champ. Blizzards beware!

This powerful monster has an impressive 9-inch ground clearance. It comes equipped with all the latest improvements to safety features, including intelligent AWD, ABS, and blindside detection, so you can drive confidently in any road conditions nature can throw at you.

The Armada can comfortably fit up to 8 people, making it perfect for transporting large families. If you prefer to take it to the extreme, this can also handle off-road terrains as well.

This vehicle is definitely worth the money if your objective is to have added security and luxurious comfort while driving in less than ideal weather conditions. Look sleek while keeping safe during harsh Canadian winters.

>>Click here to check out pre-owned Nissan Armada's for sale<<

All of these vehicles would be ideal for driving in adverse road conditions. They are also modern and attractive cars. 

Of course, you have the option of buying any of these great cars brand new from a dealership! But why spend so much money on a vehicle that depreciates right after leaving the lot, when you can work with House of Cars to get into a pre-owned and fabulous vehicle in mint condition at a lower cost?

We work with any and all credit situations, so whether you’re at prime credit or lagging a bit, don’t be shy, we have seen it all! Despite having lower than perfect credit, we guarantee you’ll drive away in a car you love.

Stop by at one of our many House of Cars locations to get expert advice and service on lower-cost used vehicles.

Don’t have the time to stop by? Give us a call or shoot us an email, and we will be more than happy to take you on a wonderful car shopping journey. Click here to contact us and get all the information you need to make your winter car dreams come true.

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The Transparent car influenced automotive safety

As technology becomes more advanced, consumer products are getting more sophisticated, and this includes our cars.

With the ‘self-driving’ and hovering car not too far into the future, automakers are finding ways to incorporate safety features that rely on technology to keep us safe.

Makes you wonder how long it will be until we witness these amazing vehicles on our streets.

Not too long ago, the world was exposed to a different view on road safety.

At the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show, TWR Automotive showcased their safety technologies with a see-through acrylic car. This particular company makes safety equipment for many recognizable brands such as Mercedes Benz, Toyota, GM, and VW.

In 2015, TWR was acquired by ZF Freidrichshafen which is one of the largest automotive suppliers in the world.

With the acquisition of TWR, these ‘Active Safety Systems’ (which were showcased in the acrylic car at that 2013 auto show) are now becoming integrated into our cars today.

So what made this vehicle so safe?

LiDAR, Radar, and cameras are the future of collision detection

The acrylic car included sensors that use LiDAR or 3D laser scanning to detect objects 360 degrees around the vehicle. The sensors work by sending out incredibly fast laser light bursts that are then bounced back to the sensors which forms a 3D map around the car.

This technology is the future of collision detection because the sensor can tell you if there is a cyclist in your blind spot before you even have to shoulder check for it.

However, the LiDAR sensor was only one piece of the safety system. New cars already have cameras for backing up but TWR/ZF has a Tri-Cam System that is placed on the front of the car which allows them to detect motion perpendicular to the front of the car.

Finally there is a radar which is capable of detecting the speed and position of the vehicle in front of your car as well as side mounted radar sensors which can increase the field of vision around the car.

The radar and camera systems are also used for the automatic braking feature which can reduce the severity of collisions.

The system uses front facing cameras and radar sensors that can detect whether a pedestrian or other object is in danger of being hit. The sensors then sends this information to the brakes which slow the car down before you need to react.

With these three systems, cars can have 360 degrees of vision in all types of weather, and although these components are more pricey it is not hard to imagine that all automakers will eventually have these systems installed in all their cars.

‘Active’ seat belts for future cars

Another innovation in the acrylic car was the ‘active’ seatbelt system. The traditional three point seat belt system has been with us since 1958 and although they have saved many lives that does not mean there isn’t room for innovation.

These new seat belts are designed to work with other car safety systems to provide as much protection as possible during a collision.

The belts have sensors that help control slack and tension in the belt during unpredictable crashes so rather than the belt just passively keeping the passenger restrained these belts actually adjust themselves to better deal with the occupant’s energy leading to less bodily harm.

Artificial intelligence and the cars of the future

Before we have autonomous cars, we need very sophisticated computers that can discern different obstacles and levels of danger like a human can.

Although there will be some time before we have computers that are as capable as a human mind, there are some interesting forms of AI that are already being installed into our cars.

When it comes to air bags, the sensors and cameras on the car can discern the difference between an obstacle like a mailbox or a bridge abutment, and it can use that corresponding information to tell the car which airbags to deploy to maximize safety.

Since distracted driving has become a considerable safety problem, new AI can actually use images of your face to cross reference with faces of focused and distracted drivers to make assumptions about your level of awareness.

If the car recognizes that you have become distracted it can issue a warning to pay more attention or it can take actions to stop the car if it is deemed that you are being too unsafe to drive.

Although this technology was presented some years ago and there isn’t much news today about the possibility of driving transparent cars, we have seen some of this innovative technology in our vehicles today.

However, with our current technological advancements, we are probably not too far from seeing a fully transparent vehicle on the road. I’m just being hopeful.

How can I increase the safety of my vehicle?

Unfortunately, adding these amazing safety features to your current vehicle may not be possible, and if it is, best believe it will be expensive. The easiest, most cost effective and safest way to obtain modern safety features at a low price is by buying a newer used car.

Dealers like House of Cars carry 100s of newer vehicles that are much lower in price than if purchased at a franchise dealership.

They may not have transparent cars just yet, but if these safety features have piqued your interest, maybe you would like to drop by House of Cars and look into trading in your old car for something more modern with features that are designed to keep you safe on the roads.