With the Christmas holiday season fast approaching, you may be pondering what to get that special auto enthusiast. The good news is, there are many gift options available to suit any budget and personality.
Let’s start with items for those who have specific interests. If that special someone is a music lover, perhaps a new sound system is the way to go? Those who are more active might appreciate a bike or ski rack for the car, or even a carrier top for other recreational gear. There are several interesting gift ideas that could help dress up a vehicle, ranging from custom fitted seat covers to custom floor mats. Likewise, drivers who like vehicle or sports paraphernalia might enjoy a license plate frame, a dashboard ornament, or a key chain featuring one of their favorite retail or sports team. Or even a die cast toy car to match their ride.
On the practical side, you can’t go wrong with a car care kit, which can typically be found at your local hardware store – or you can put together a gift basket yourself. Packages can contain car wash fluid, glass cleaner, wax, polish, sealant, detailer spray, interior cleaner, tire shine and everything in between.
For car lovers who like to baby their vehicles, many dealerships offer auto “spa packages” for interior and exterior detailing services. All car lovers look forward to cruising in a shiny car in the Spring months, so check the websites of your local dealerships for special promotions or gift cards.
Gift cards can pay for a maintenance or detailing appointment at the person’s favourite new car dealer or some sessions at the neighbourhood car wash. They’re also a smart gift for those who are tricky to please, as the person can pick out their own vehicle accessories or add-ons at their favourite auto parts store or website.
Another practical option is a dash cam which can provide peace of mind if you’re in an accident. For people who travel long distances, an emergency kit is always a good option. These include everything from jumper cables and a flashlight, to flares, candles, matches and blanket – should a driver be unlucky enough to get stranded in their vehicle. You hope they will never need to use them, but these items could come in handy someday.
Finally, the perfect topper for your car-themed gift basket or stocking stuffer may be tickets to the 2020 Vancouver International Auto Show, March 25-29 at the Vancouver Convention Centre (West). The 100th anniversary event will be marked by many special features in honour of the event’s storied history. For those residing outside of the Lower Mainland, each year the Vancouver International Auto Show partners with hotels around the Convention Centre to make it easier for you to attend the Show and visit Vancouver’s beautiful downtown area. Early Bird tickets are on sale now at VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com
One final note. As we head into the holiday season, please remember to drive responsibly – so if you’re cerebrating with friends and family, please don’t drive under the influence.
For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/
For the month of September, there were 17,262 new vehicle sales in BC.
NCDA of BC has provide more than $500,000 in grants and scholarships to help fund the learning and growth of automotive students since 2005.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]
