At Scandinavian Coachcraft, we know that summer isn’t just a season, it’s a calling. The open roads beckon, the weather is sublime, and there’s nothing quite like the harmony of precision engineering and warm asphalt beneath your wheels. But before you let the top down and the throttle loose, let’s talk about what really matters: safety. Here are some tips for safe summer driving.
Luxury sports cars are built for performance, but safe summer driving requires more than just power, it demands preparation, awareness, and a touch of restraint. Here’s how to make the most of your machine while keeping every mile safe and enjoyable.
1. Give Your Car a Summer-Ready Checkup
Even precision-engineered vehicles benefit from seasonal prep. Before heading out:
- Tire inspection is key: Hot roads and spirited driving increase wear. Check tread depth, pressure (especially if you’re switching to summer tires), and look for signs of uneven wear.
- Brake performance: You want flawless stopping power when carving corners or navigating traffic. Have your brake pads and fluid inspected.
- Fluids and filters: Engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid should be topped off and clean. High temps and performance driving demand optimal lubrication and cooling.
- Battery health: Summer heat can weaken batteries faster than cold. Make sure yours is fully charged and terminals are clean.
2. Respect the Heat, Yours and the Car’s
Summer heat can sneak up on both driver and machine.
- Cabin temps soar fast, especially in low-slung cars with performance-tuned engines. Use sunshades when parked and ventilate before driving.
- Monitor engine temperature on spirited drives, especially in traffic or uphill climbs. Even the best performance cooling systems have limits.
- Hydrate, for both of you. Keep a water bottle in the car, and don’t ignore signs of heat exhaustion on long drives.
3. Drive Defensively, Yes, Even in a Supercar
Performance cars draw attention, and sometimes challenge. Don’t take the bait.
- Anticipate sudden maneuvers from other drivers who may not understand your car’s capabilities or braking distance.
- Use your mirrors religiously; blind spots in low-profile cars are more pronounced.
- Watch for cyclists and pedestrians, especially on scenic coastal or country roads where visibility might be compromised by elevation or foliage.
4. Be Smart with Speed and Power
Let’s be honest: your car was built for joy. But the road isn’t a track, and safety is the ultimate luxury.
- Use sport mode wisely, save it for wide-open stretches, not city traffic.
- Avoid hard acceleration on hot, worn pavement, traction can be deceiving when surface temperatures exceed 120°F (49°C).
- Know your local laws, radar detectors, speed limits, and noise ordinances vary.
5. Plan Your Routes Like a Connoisseur
Part of safe driving is smart route planning. Aim for quality over quantity.
- Scenic but safe: Seek out routes with good road conditions, low traffic, and scenic views. Avoid construction zones and rough rural roads that could scrape your undercarriage.
- Know your gas stops: Performance engines love premium fuel, and they love it often. Plan fill-ups accordingly.
- Time your drive: Early morning or late evening cruises offer cooler temperatures, less traffic, and golden-hour beauty.
6. Pack Smart, Pack Light
Space is premium in most sports cars, use it wisely.
- Emergency kit: Include a tire inflator/sealant, a flashlight, water, sunscreen, and a compact first aid kit.
- Documents: Always carry your registration, insurance, and roadside assistance info.
Drive Beautifully, Drive Responsibly
At Scandinavian Coachcraft, we believe safety is the ultimate expression of craftsmanship. When you respect your car, the road, and your surroundings, you unlock a deeper level of driving pleasure, one where confidence and exhilaration move in harmony.
This summer, let your luxury sports car do what it was made for: command the road with elegance, precision, and care.
Stay safe, stay sharp, and let the drive be the destination.
— The Scandinavian Coachcraft Team