Latest news with #KazimierasUrbonas
The Sun
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Parking spot you don't want to put car in during hot weather – it's ‘the worst thing you can do' & could cost you £1800
EXPERTS have warned of a parking spot you should steer clear of in hot weather. With temperatures set to ramp up to 30C again towards the end of the week, drivers may be tempted to park cars under shady trees, to stop them from overheating. 2 And although this may seem like a smart idea, Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko revealed that this could actually be the worst place to park your vehicle. Tree sap damage The car expert explained that if you park your motor under a tree it could get covered in tree sap or bird droppings. And although this may not seem like the worst problem, it could lead to thousands of pounds worth of damage. Kazmieras revealed that the sap and droppings will not only make your car look dirty, it will also likely damage the bodywork of your vehicle. He added that this could also affect the value of your motor, meaning that it will be worth less when you want to sell it on. The expert explained: "Most people don't realise that parking under trees can actually be one of the worst things you can do for your car's paintwork. 'What seems like a convenient, shaded spot can lead to damage that affects both the appearance and value of your vehicle.' More of a problem during summer Tree sap poses a greater risk in the summer months, as trees produce more of the substance during this time, and the hot weather bakes the sap on to cars. It is a good idea to regularly inspect your car during the summer months, to check for any damage from tree sap. Removing the sap as soon as you notice it will help to reduce the possibility of long term damage. Kazmieras added: 'Tree sap doesn't just sit on the surface. "It actually penetrates the clear coat and can cause permanent staining. "In hot weather, the sap becomes more corrosive and can eat through the protective layers of your paintwork.' How to remove tree sap If the damage to your car isn't particularly severe, you can remove if yourself using household products such as rubbing alcohol, WD-40, or cooking oil. To use these products, simply apply them to a micro-fibre cloth, and then gently rub the affected area. Make sure to wash the product off with water, and then reapply wax or sealant to protect the paint. However, if the damage is more severe, you may have to pay a professional to get the paint corrected, which could set you back as much as £1800. The expert added that bird droppings can also cause serious damage to vehicles. He said: "'The acidic nature of bird waste can cause immediate damage, especially when left in direct sunlight. "What starts as an unsightly mess can quickly become a permanent mark that requires expensive paint correction.'
Scottish Sun
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
How to get £300 in spare cash every month by doing NOTHING but you'll need to live in one of four key spots
Plus, it also has some added benefits for your security too RAKE IT IN How to get £300 in spare cash every month by doing NOTHING but you'll need to live in one of four key spots WITH household budgets stretched tighter than ever, many people are looking for ways to boost their earnings. However, an expert has pointed out one surprisingly simple opportunity might be sitting right outside their front door - and isn't a time-consuming side hustle. 2 You can earn money renting out your driveway as a side hustle Credit: Getty The solution involves something most people take for granted – their driveway. According to car industry expert Kazimieras Urbonas, from Ovoko, an online marketplaces for used car parts, homeowners across the UK are missing out on a straightforward way to generate passive income. The secret lies in renting out your driveway space to drivers who need somewhere to park. Using dedicated platforms like JustPark or YourParkingSpace, homeowners can list their driveways and earn money from people looking for convenient, affordable parking spots. The earning potential varies significantly based on location and demand. Homeowners in prime spots near major transport links can earn £150-300 monthly, while those in quieter suburban areas might see £50-100 per month. Kazimieras shared: 'It's incredibly straightforward. 'You simply create a listing with photos of your driveway, set your hourly or daily rates, and wait for bookings to roll in. 'The platforms handle all the payments and insurance, so there's very little work involved once you're set up. 'It's safe to say most people aren't aware their empty driveway could be earning them money while they're at work or even while they sleep. I earn cash by selling 'actual rubbish' on eBay - I flogged a freebie I found on the floor by a bin for £10, it's crazy 'It's one of those opportunities that's been hiding in plain sight.' The process works by connecting drivers who need parking with homeowners who have unused space. Whether someone needs a spot for a few hours while they catch a train, or a tourist wants somewhere safe to leave their car for several days, your driveway could be the perfect solution. LUCRATIVE LOCATIONS 2 People can rake in up to £300 a month renting their drive Credit: Getty While any homeowner with a driveway can potentially earn money, certain locations are particularly lucrative. Properties near transport hubs tend to see the highest demand and can command premium rates. Kazimieras added: 'Homes within walking distance of train stations are absolute goldmines. 'Commuters are happy to pay £5-15 per day for convenient parking, especially when station car parks charge much more or are constantly full.' Other profitable locations include near hospitals, as staff, patients and visitors often struggle to find parking and will pay for guaranteed spaces. Other people who are close to airports could also be in the money, as travellers seek secure, affordable alternatives to expensive airport parking If you are located near a stadium or event venues, this could be tempting for match days or concerts. Meanwhile, office workers and shoppers love all-day parking options near city centres. EXTRA BENEFITS Beyond the obvious financial advantage, renting out driveway space offers several practical benefits that homeowners may not initially consider. Kazimieras shared: 'Your driveway stays active and occupied, which can actually improve security. 'An empty driveway can signal to potential burglars that nobody's home, but regular activity makes properties less attractive targets.' The arrangement also helps reduce local parking pressures. The best places to earn money renting out your driveway as a side hustle Near hospitals - Staff, patients and visitors often struggle to find parking and will pay for guaranteed spaces Close to airports - Travellers seek secure, affordable alternatives to expensive airport parking Around stadiums and event venues - Match days and concerts create huge temporary demand In city centres - Office workers and shoppers need all-day parking options Near universities - Students and staff require regular parking solutions Instead of drivers circling neighbourhoods looking for spaces or parking inconsiderately on residential streets, they have a designated spot that doesn't inconvenience anyone. For environmentally conscious homeowners, the practice supports more efficient use of existing infrastructure rather than building new car parks, which aligns with sustainable urban planning principles. The flexibility is another major advantage. Homeowners maintain complete control over when their space is available, allowing them to block out times when they need their driveway for their own vehicles or activities. Kazimieras concluded: 'In my work, I've observed how parking scarcity has become one of the biggest pain points for drivers nationwide. 'What's particularly interesting is how this challenge has created a genuine opportunity for homeowners. 'Cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham can experience parking occupancy rates of up to 99 per cent during peak hours, yet thousands of private driveways sit empty during these exact same periods. 'I expect this market to continue growing significantly over the next few years, particularly as local councils implement more parking restrictions and charge higher rates for street parking. 'Homeowners who get involved now are positioning themselves to benefit from this long-term trend.'
The Sun
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
How to get £300 in spare cash every month by doing NOTHING but you'll need to live in one of four key spots
WITH household budgets stretched tighter than ever, many people are looking for ways to boost their earnings. However, an expert has pointed out one surprisingly simple opportunity might be sitting right outside their front door - and isn't a time-consuming side hustle. 2 The solution involves something most people take for granted – their driveway. According to car industry expert Kazimieras Urbonas, from Ovoko, an online marketplaces for used car parts, homeowners across the UK are missing out on a straightforward way to generate passive income. The secret lies in renting out your driveway space to drivers who need somewhere to park. Using dedicated platforms like JustPark or YourParkingSpace, homeowners can list their driveways and earn money from people looking for convenient, affordable parking spots. The earning potential varies significantly based on location and demand. Homeowners in prime spots near major transport links can earn £150-300 monthly, while those in quieter suburban areas might see £50-100 per month. Kazimieras shared: 'It's incredibly straightforward. 'You simply create a listing with photos of your driveway, set your hourly or daily rates, and wait for bookings to roll in. 'The platforms handle all the payments and insurance, so there's very little work involved once you're set up. 'It's safe to say most people aren't aware their empty driveway could be earning them money while they're at work or even while they sleep. I earn cash by selling 'actual rubbish' on eBay - I flogged a freebie I found on the floor by a bin for £10, it's crazy 'It's one of those opportunities that's been hiding in plain sight.' The process works by connecting drivers who need parking with homeowners who have unused space. Whether someone needs a spot for a few hours while they catch a train, or a tourist wants somewhere safe to leave their car for several days, your driveway could be the perfect solution. LUCRATIVE LOCATIONS 2 While any homeowner with a driveway can potentially earn money, certain locations are particularly lucrative. Properties near transport hubs tend to see the highest demand and can command premium rates. Kazimieras added: 'Homes within walking distance of train stations are absolute goldmines. 'Commuters are happy to pay £5-15 per day for convenient parking, especially when station car parks charge much more or are constantly full.' Other profitable locations include near hospitals, as staff, patients and visitors often struggle to find parking and will pay for guaranteed spaces. Other people who are close to airports could also be in the money, as travellers seek secure, affordable alternatives to expensive airport parking If you are located near a stadium or event venues, this could be tempting for match days or concerts. Meanwhile, office workers and shoppers love all-day parking options near city centres. EXTRA BENEFITS Beyond the obvious financial advantage, renting out driveway space offers several practical benefits that homeowners may not initially consider. Kazimieras shared: 'Your driveway stays active and occupied, which can actually improve security. 'An empty driveway can signal to potential burglars that nobody's home, but regular activity makes properties less attractive targets.' The arrangement also helps reduce local parking pressures. Near hospitals - Staff, patients and visitors often struggle to find parking and will pay for guaranteed spaces Close to airports - Travellers seek secure, affordable alternatives to expensive airport parking Around stadiums and event venues - Match days and concerts create huge temporary demand In city centres - Office workers and shoppers need all-day parking options Near universities - Students and staff require regular parking solutions Instead of drivers circling neighbourhoods looking for spaces or parking inconsiderately on residential streets, they have a designated spot that doesn't inconvenience anyone. For environmentally conscious homeowners, the practice supports more efficient use of existing infrastructure rather than building new car parks, which aligns with sustainable urban planning principles. The flexibility is another major advantage. Homeowners maintain complete control over when their space is available, allowing them to block out times when they need their driveway for their own vehicles or activities. Kazimieras concluded: 'In my work, I've observed how parking scarcity has become one of the biggest pain points for drivers nationwide. 'What's particularly interesting is how this challenge has created a genuine opportunity for homeowners. 'Cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham can experience parking occupancy rates of up to 99 per cent during peak hours, yet thousands of private driveways sit empty during these exact same periods. 'I expect this market to continue growing significantly over the next few years, particularly as local councils implement more parking restrictions and charge higher rates for street parking.
The Irish Sun
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
How to get £300 in spare cash every month by doing NOTHING but you'll need to live in one of four key spots
WITH household budgets stretched tighter than ever, many people are looking for ways to boost their earnings. However, an expert has pointed out one surprisingly simple opportunity might be sitting right outside their front door - and isn't a time-consuming side hustle. 2 You can earn money renting out your driveway as a side hustle Credit: Getty The solution involves something most people take for granted – their driveway. According to car industry expert Kazimieras Urbonas, from The secret lies in renting out your driveway space to drivers who need somewhere to park. Using dedicated platforms like JustPark or YourParkingSpace, homeowners can list their driveways and earn money from people looking for convenient, affordable parking spots. The earning potential varies significantly based on location and demand. Homeowners in prime spots near major transport links can earn £150-300 monthly, while those in quieter suburban areas might see £50-100 per month. Kazimieras shared: 'It's incredibly straightforward. 'You simply create a listing with photos of your driveway, set your hourly or daily rates, and wait for bookings to roll in. Most read in Fabulous 'The platforms handle all the payments and insurance , so there's very little work involved once you're set up. 'It's safe to say most people aren't aware their empty driveway could be earning them money while they're at work or even while they sleep . I earn cash by selling 'actual rubbish' on eBay - I flogged a freebie I found on the floor by a bin for £10, it's crazy 'It's one of those opportunities that's been hiding in plain sight.' The process works by connecting drivers who need parking with homeowners who have unused space. Whether someone needs a spot for a few hours while they catch a train, or a tourist wants somewhere safe to leave their car for several days, your driveway could be the perfect solution. LUCRATIVE LOCATIONS 2 People can rake in up to £300 a month renting their drive Credit: Getty While any homeowner with a driveway can potentially earn money, certain locations are particularly lucrative. Properties near transport hubs tend to see the highest demand and can command premium rates. Kazimieras added: 'Homes within walking distance of train stations are absolute goldmines. 'Commuters are happy to pay £5-15 per day for convenient parking, especially when station car parks charge much more or are constantly full.' Other profitable locations include near hospitals, as staff, patients and visitors often struggle to find parking and will pay for guaranteed spaces. Other people who are close to airports could also be in the money, as travellers seek secure, affordable alternatives to expensive airport parking If you are located near a stadium or event venues, this could be tempting for match days or concerts. Meanwhile, office workers and shoppers love all-day parking options near city centres. EXTRA BENEFITS Beyond the obvious financial advantage, renting out driveway space offers several practical benefits that homeowners may not initially consider. Kazimieras shared: 'Your driveway stays active and occupied, which can actually improve security. 'An empty driveway can signal to potential burglars that nobody's home, but regular activity makes properties less attractive targets.' The arrangement also helps reduce local parking pressures. The best places to earn money renting out your driveway as a side hustle Near hospitals - Staff, patients and visitors often struggle to find parking and will pay for guaranteed spaces Close to airports - Travellers seek secure, affordable alternatives to expensive airport parking Around stadiums and event venues - Match days and concerts create huge temporary demand In city centres - Office workers and shoppers need all-day parking options Near universities - Students and staff require regular parking solutions Instead of drivers circling neighbourhoods looking for spaces or parking inconsiderately on residential streets, they have a designated spot that doesn't inconvenience anyone. For environmentally conscious homeowners, the practice supports more efficient use of existing infrastructure rather than building new car parks, which aligns with sustainable urban planning principles. The flexibility is another major advantage. Homeowners maintain complete control over when their space is available, allowing them to block out times when they need their driveway for their own vehicles or activities. Kazimieras concluded: 'In my work, I've observed how parking scarcity has become one of the biggest pain points for drivers nationwide . 'What's particularly interesting is how this challenge has created a genuine opportunity for homeowners. 'Cities like London , Manchester , and Birmingham can experience parking occupancy rates of up to 99 per cent during peak hours, yet thousands of private driveways sit empty during these exact same periods . 'I expect this market to continue growing significantly over the next few years, particularly as local councils implement more parking restrictions and charge higher rates for street parking. Read more on the Irish Sun 'Homeowners who get involved now are positioning themselves to benefit from this long-term trend.'
Wales Online
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Drivers warned popular car feature could result in £60 on-the-spot fine
Drivers warned popular car feature could result in £60 on-the-spot fine There are lots of popular things to do to cars, but some can land you in hot water Experts have issued a warning to drivers (Image: Birmingham Mail ) Drivers have been issued a warning from experts over a popular feature on cars that could result in an on-the-spot fine. Ovoko has issued the advice over modifications that could end up landing you in trouble. Kazimieras Urbonas, supplier excellence manager at the car parts marketplace, has warned against installing tinted windows for the summer. He said: 'As some drivers may be unaware, tinted windows are actually illegal in the UK. Official government guidelines state that the front windscreen must let at least 75% of light through and the front side windows must let at least 70% through. 'For those drivers caught on the roads with tinted windows, authorities may issue an instant 'prohibition notice,' which will prohibit individuals from using their vehicle until the tint has been removed. 'Drivers may also be issued with a court summons or be hit with a £60 on-the-spot fine, as well as three licence points. 'If you are looking to install tinted windows this summer, then it's essential that the tint lets enough light through to comply with UK regulations. Article continues below 'It's also recommended to opt for a legitimate company to install any tinted window upgrades, rather than attempting any DIY jobs. This means that the tints are more likely to comply with the official regulations, protecting you from any fines or licence points. 'For vehicles first used before April, 1985, the rule is slightly different. These vehicles must let at least 70% of light through both the front windscreen and the front side windows. It's also important to flag that this rule does not apply to rear windows. 'While having tinted windows will not impact the outcome of your vehicle's MOT test, it's important to be aware of the legal implications of installing this particular modification. 'Tinted windows can significantly impair drivers' vision if they fail to meet the 75% requirement, which is why it's so essential that you're prioritising your own and others' safety on the roads. 'While this feature has become popular for its sleek appearance and glare reduction, it's important to note that tinted windows can raise significant safety concerns if they fail to comply with regulations.' Experts added that some new drivers might also be unaware that installing excessively loud exhausts was another illegal car modification that could land you with a fine. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here There are legal limits as to the amount of noise that vehicles can make on public roads, which is why it's illegal to modify your car's exhaust to be louder after it has passed its initial safety checks. For cars first used after January, 1975, the legal maximum noise limit is 74 decibels. While it's possible to modify your car's exhaust within these legal limits, it's not recommended to do so. Drivers who are found to have an excessively loud exhaust will likely be met with a £50 on-the-spot fine and even a potential prohibition notice. And, according to 2020 police data, 13,720 drivers were stopped by police in that year for having illegal number plates. While this is a popular car modification, it's important for drivers to be aware of the legal regulations that all customised number plates must adhere to. All number plates must be consistent with the Charles Wright 2001 typeface. This means that any number plates that alter the font style, thickness, or size can be deemed illegal. As all number plates must be reflective, any tinted plates or plates with coloured backgrounds other than the official white and yellow are also illegal. Any number plates that use offensive or inappropriate language are also illegal. Driving with an illegal number plate can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and an MOT fail. In extreme cases, police may even issue a driving ban or vehicle seizure. Mr Urbonas added: 'While summer is a popular time for many drivers to begin considering certain modifications, it's crucial to ensure that they adhere to official guidelines to avoid being hit with unexpected fines, insurance invalidation, and even MOT failures. 'Ensure that you're using reputable companies to complete any modifications to ensure that they safely comply with DVLA regulations. Always keep hold of any documents, particularly receipts, for all modifications to assist with any insurance claims or police roadside checks. 'It's also recommended to inform your insurance company of any modifications, no matter how small they are, as these will likely have an impact on your insurance. Failing to report any modifications can result in your insurance becoming invalid, which is why it's so important to keep a record of this. 'With summer now in full swing, it's also essential for younger drivers to be aware of the impact of certain car modifications. While upgrades like neon lights or headlight tints may seem trendy, these can significantly impair other drivers' vision on the roads, increasing the risk of a collision. 'This is why it's so important to always research any potential car modifications beforehand to ensure that they adhere to the UK's official regulations.' 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