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More AAA AUTO used car buyers demand winter accessories

32% more cars with heated seats sold in first nine months of the year.

According to statistics from AAA AUTO, used cars offered for sale are increasingly equipped with heated steering wheels, heated seats, heated windscreens and auxiliary heaters. In addition to vehicles with interior accessories, 31% more vehicles with four-wheel-drive were sold during the first nine months of 2014 compared to 2013. As winter approaches, the big advantage of better traction provided by these vehicles in bad weather conditions is particularly appreciated by drivers.

Current statistics from AAA AUTO show that Czech drivers are better prepared for the coming winter than in previous years. Compared to 2013, significantly more cars with heated seats, heated steering wheels, heated windscreens or auxiliary heating were sold over the first nine months.

“Drivers are increasingly demanding premium accessories which guarantee them a more comfortable drive whatever the conditions. So it comes as no surprise, now that most cars are equipped with air-conditioning or electric windows, that drivers have started to look for other accessories that can make their daily drive more pleasant,” said Karolína Topolová, CEO of the AAA AUTO group. “We expect that this demand will continue to grow with the approach of winter, as drivers particularly appreciate heated seats when driving in the morning, or a heated windscreen ensuring a clear view from the car just a short time after the engine is turned on.”

Over the first nine months of the year, 32% more cars were sold with heated seats, as well as 45% more cars with heated windscreens. Drivers are also thinking more about handling, with 31% more four-wheel-drive cars sold up to the end of September. AAA AUTO has also decided to support road safety with a special campaign under which every customer gets a set of winter tyres to go with the car they have purchased. “Good winter tyres are a key element with a great impact on safe driving during the winter. That is why we are continuing the campaign held in previous years and giving our customers a set of four winter tyres free of charge this year too,” added Karolína Topolová.