Cargo vans are a necessity for many businesses that need to transport goods or haul equipment between job sites. From catering to contracting companies, cargo vans are an excellent way to get from one job to the next with all your product and equipment securely stored and organized.

How do you know which cargo van is right for your business? It comes down to efficiency, features and personal preference. When inspecting various options, ask yourself the question, “Will this van work for me and help me serve my customers well?”

What Businesses Need Cargo Vans?

Easterns Automotive has been selling vehicles to businesses and commuters in Virginia and Maryland for more than 30 years. We’ve helped all types of businesses find great work trucks and cargo vans to meet their needs over the years, including:  

• Florists
• Plumbers
• Contractors
• Party planners
• HVAC professionals
• Caterers
• Wedding vendors
• Painters
• Electricians
• Pest Control
• Dog groomers
• Delivery services
• Production companies

Key Features of a Cargo Van

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) – The maximum weight of a cargo van. For example, if a cargo van’s GVWR is 8,000 pounds and it weighs 4,000 pounds empty, then you have 4,000 pounds left to use for loading.

Payload capacity – The payload capacity is how much weight you can add to the vehicle. (i.e., the 4,000 pounds you have left to load.)

Fuel type – Will the van require gas or diesel, and does that matter to you?

Roof height – If you plan on being able to stand inside the cargo van, make sure to find a van with a roof height tall enough to walk around in.

Cargo space – Obviously, you’re purchasing a cargo van for the space in the back. Make sure you consider everything that needs to fit back there and how it would need to be organized in order to meet your needs.

Drivetrain – There are four types of drivetrains: all-wheel drive (AWD), four-wheel drive (4WD), front-wheel drive (FWD) and rear-wheel drive (RWD). Think about what type of terrain and climate you’ll be driving in and determine what will be the safest, most efficient drivetrain for your cargo van.

Safety features — Newer cargo vans have many of the same safety features we see in commuter vehicles nowadays. (i.e., blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, automatic headlights, etc.) These features can help prevent accidents, shielding your business from potentially costly liability claims.

Wheelbase – The general rule of thumb is the longer the wheelbase the smoother the van will drive, and the shorter the wheelbase the bumpier the ride. Shorter wheelbases have more maneuverability, allowing for easier and tighter turns, while longer wheelbases provide a more comfortable, stable ride (this is especially important for passenger vans).

Doors – Cargo vans have several potential door variations. Dual-side doors are fairly self-explanatory; there are doors on both sides of the van. Dutch doors are doors on the back of a van that are hinged to swing out to the side. Some vans even have a rear lift gate like a commuter SUV or minivan. From a business perspective, rear lift gates tend to be the least functional option. Most businesses will want either Dutch doors or dual-side doors.

Powertrain – Commercial vehicles like cargo vans offer more powertrain and fuel options than many commuter vehicle models. Newer models of Ford, like the Transit Connect Cargo Van, have many configuration options and emissions-control features, including things like Eco Mode and CNG/propane packages.

Perks of Driving a Cargo Van

• Fuel efficiency
• Reliability
• Interior and exterior customization and business branding
• Comfort
• Temperate control (perfect for florists or caterers)
• Mobility
• Tax benefits/deductions

For the last 30 years, local businesses in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore areas have relied on Easterns Automotive for their company vehicle needs.

When you’re ready to purchase a cargo van, we are here to help. Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 or visit one of our eight dealerships today.

Hyundai Motor America had a good 2021. Riding the wave of the post-pandemic surge in car sales, the Korean-based auto manufacturer enjoyed a 19 percent year-over-year increase of American auto sales. Out of 738,081 Hyundai vehicles sold in 2021, Americans showed a preference for the Tucson, Elantra and Santa Fe, which were the top-selling Hyundai models of that year.

Hyundai’s present-day popularity comes after years of striving to redefine their own brand. No longer saddled with a collective image of cheap unreliability, Hyundai has made its mark in today’s competitive and versatile auto market.

Hyundai’s Difficult Beginnings

Although the carmaker has been around since 1967, Hyundai didn’t make its American debut until 1986 when it launched the Excel. Unfortunately, the subcompact car didn’t excel at much other than affordability. It had a reputation for lacking quality and reliability.

In 1991, Hyundai reluctantly recalled almost 900,000 Excel models based on faulty engine parts that could have led to a fire. Drivers also reported stalling and other drivability issues. After the Excel fiasco, Hyundai’s auto sales and image continued to plunge until 1988 when the manufacturer acquired Kia, beginning their redemptive journey toward success.

To stay afloat while figuring out a new and improved strategy, Hyundai refocused their efforts on manufacturing high-quality vehicles. In the late 1990s, Hyundai and Kia introduced a generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which covered issues with a vehicle’s engine and transmission. Consequently, auto sales and consumer attitudes shifted upward, allowing Hyundai plenty of time to make long-term improvements to its vehicles.  

Nowadays, Hyundai produces a wide range of Hyundai and Kia vehicles—from sedans and hatchbacks to crossover SUVs and pickup trucks, catering to almost every demographic. Regardless of which make and model you choose as your next vehicle, you can rest assured it’ll embody a balanced mix of affordability, style and practicality.

Why Choose Hyundai

Apart from the versatility in models and designs, there are several other benefits to driving a vehicle manufactured by Hyundai. These benefits include:

• The best warranty standard on the market, including a 10-year/100k-mile powertrain warranty and 8-year/80k-mile federal emission defect and performance warranty on new cars.
• Hyundai has gained a reputation as one of the safest vehicles to drive according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The top models to get near-perfect scores are the Palisade, the Sonata and the Kia Forte.
• Hyundai is passionate about philanthropy and bettering the community. The Hyundai Hope on Wheels organization has donated over 200 million dollars to pediatric cancer research since 1998.
• If you’re interested in driving an alternative-fuel vehicle, Hyundai offers several hybrid and electric versions of their top-selling models, including the Kona, the Tucson and the Elantra.

Most Popular Hyundai and Kia Models in the U.S.

Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson is a compact crossover SUV that has been around since 2004. It’s considered one of the most reliable SUVs and is currently the top-selling Hyundai SUV model.

Hyundai Sonata

The Sonata is a mid-size car known for its fuel efficiency, elegant interior design and smooth riding experience. The Sonata has been manufactured since 1985 and has undergone several improvements in performance and reliability over the decades.

Hyundai Palisade

The Palisade is one of the youngest members in the Hyundai family. This mid-size crossover SUV made its first appearance in 2018 but already earns high ratings for engine power, comfort and abundant cargo room.

Kia Forte

The compact Kia Forte is an excellent option for drivers looking for a reliable, no-frills vehicle. Despite its small size, the Forte boasts a large trunk and spacious cabin. It offers excellent fuel-economy for an affordable price.

Kia Soul 

Known for its unconventional boxy exterior, the Kia Soul offers much more than just a quirky look. The Soul is a subcompact SUV that boasts plenty of cargo room, affordability and great safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and collision-avoidance assistance.

Kia Optima

The Kia Optima is a mid-size car offering an abundance of benefits, including an excellent safety score, smooth ride, large trunk and rich infotainment system.

Explore Affordable Pre-Owned Hyundai and Kia Models at Easterns Automotive

Are you in Maryland, Virginia or the DMV and looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle? Consider getting your next car from Easterns Automotive. We offer a diverse inventory of pre-owned Hyundai and Kia models, as well as a variety of other makes and models to meet your unique needs.

We’ll never sell you a vehicle unless it’s passed our rigorous safety inspection. When you purchase from Easterns Automotive, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle is certified, reasonably priced and ready to serve you and your family for years to come.

To inquire about our inventory or schedule a test drive of a pre-owned vehicles, call (877) 867-0641 or visit one of our dealerships.

The art of haggling isn’t something most Americans are particularly keen on. While many countries consider relentless bargaining fair game, American consumers and traditional retail businesses are accustomed to clear pricing expectations.

However, there are exceptions, especially on expensive pre-owned products with variable quality, like used cars. If you’ve ever purchased a pre-owned car, chances are good you were able to work out a more favorable deal than the vehicle’s original price.

Some people like to purchase brand-new cars for their perceived reliability (generous warranties, no murky history or damage from accidents, etc.). However, today’s post-pandemic auto market has priced many auto shoppers out of the new car market.

Stalls in auto production during the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing supply chain struggles and parts shortages have caused a national shortage of many new vehicles. As a result, many drivers are switching gears and choosing to purchase pre-owned vehicles instead.

Shoppers looking for a great deal on a used car may benefit from doing plenty of research on their favorite makes and models and brushing up on their negotiation skills before setting foot in a dealership.

How to Negotiate a Better Price on a Pre-Owned Car

There is no blueprint to a successful car price negotiation. However, there are many things you can do before and during your visit to a dealership or when meeting with a private seller to maximize your chances of getting a good deal on a car that’s caught your eye.

Decide What Make and Model You Want

If you’re looking for a used car, take some time to establish what you’re looking for. Perhaps you already have a specific make and model in mind. If that’s not the case, ask yourself what you need in your next vehicle and how much you can afford to spend. Then, based on your determinations, look for vehicles that match your preferences. Some things to consider include:

• The size
• Fuel efficiency
• Safety and reliability
• Whether the vehicle will fit in your garage
• What you like and dislike about your current vehicle
• How you’ll use your new vehicle (commuter car, road trips, off roading, etc.)

Research Prices

Once you’ve decided on a vehicle, learn how much it’s worth. You can do this by going online and researching various dealership inventories and online used car retailers. Also, if you’re going to trade in your current vehicle, make sure to know how much it’s worth to get a fair offer.

DirectCarBuying.com, powered by Easterns Automotive Group, makes it easy for Washington DC and Baltimore car shoppers to maximize their current vehicle’s trade in value.

Avoid Becoming Car Poor

Unless you pay cash, you likely will need to take out a loan to finance your used car purchase. A monthly auto payment can put a significant strain on your finances. Make sure you know the limits of what you can afford when you start shopping.

Back Up Your Counteroffer with Facts

Negotiating a better price can only be successful if you can back up your counteroffer with facts. Get quotes for similar makes and models from other dealerships and use them as leverage in your negotiations.

Print any instant cash offer you may have gotten for your trade-in vehicle. If the dealership you’re interested in buying from tries to lowball you, you can show them tangible proof your current vehicle is worth more than what they’re offering.

Effective Communication Can Go a Long Way

Successful negotiations require effective communication. Here are some communication tips to help you get the upper hand while bargaining for your preferred used vehicle:

• Always remain courteous and respectful. Trying to play “tough” or using intimidation will discourage any salesperson from working with you.
• Negotiate thoughtfully. Write things down, ask questions and ask for clarification if something isn’t clear to you.
• Keep the conversation light and even humorous but remain calm, matter of fact and firm in your convictions.
• Know when to walk. Not every private seller or dealership is willing to negotiate prices on their used inventory. If you feel you’re getting nowhere in your negotiating, don’t be afraid to walk away and continue your search elsewhere.

Visit Easterns Automotive for a Pressure-Free Used Car Shopping Experience in DC, Maryland and Virginia

When you shop at Easterns, you won’t have to worry about haggling over a price. We make our vehicle prices as competitive and transparent as possible. If you’re looking for a certified and reasonably priced used car, be sure to browse our plentiful pre-owned inventory.

For more information or to schedule a test drive, call (888) 650-4775 or visit one of our dealership locations.

Electric cars, also known as electric vehicles or EVs, do not need oil to run. Owning an electric vehicle means you’ll never have to worry about scheduling oil changes the way you would for a traditional gasoline car with an internal combustion engine.

However, this doesn’t mean your electric car won’t need any maintenance at all. Are you thinking about buying an electric vehicle? Make sure you know the maintenance needs and costs that come along with owning one before you make your purchase.

Why Is Oil Not Required in Electric Cars?

A typical gasoline car relies on an internal combustion engine to run. The engine’s job is to convert gasoline and air into motion via pistons and a crankshaft, which is how you’re able to drive your car. A combustion engine is a complex machine and consists of intricate pieces. For these pieces to glide smoothly, the engine must be lubricated with oil. Regular oil changes ensure your car’s engine remains in good condition.

Since electric cars don’t use gas, they don’t need internal combustion engines to run. Electric cars rely on an electric motor and rechargeable batteries to move, which frees you from the necessity of regular oil changes.

How Does an Electric Car Work?

An electric car is powered by an electric motor which converts electrical currents into motion via a central rotor and a rotating magnetic field. Your EV uses energy stored in its rechargeable battery to power the motor.

People typically charge their EV batteries at public charging stations or at home by plugging a charging unit into a wall socket. EVs are quiet to drive and move along streets, roads and freeways without producing environmentally harmful emissions.

What Kind of Maintenance Does an Electric Car Require?

While EVs don’t need oil changes, there are several parts that will need regular maintenance.

Coolant

Your electric car’s battery produces heat while generating power. This means your vehicle needs a coolant to protect it from overheating. Make sure to keep the coolant levels for your battery consistently high to prevent overheating.

Cabin Air Filter

While your EV doesn’t produce gas emissions, you’ll still need to replace the cabin air filter to keep the air inside your car clean. Ideally, your cabin air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

Battery System Replacement

Your electric car’s battery system has limited efficiency, which means you may need to replace it with a brand-new battery pack at some point in your EV’s lifetime.

Luckily, EV batteries are estimated to last between 10 to 20 years, giving you the option to get another vehicle before the current battery system no longer holds an adequate charge.

Other Fluids

Apart from battery coolant, your electric vehicle needs brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. Your mechanic can check your brake fluid during routine maintenance and let you know if it needs to be replaced. Typically, brake fluid in an electric vehicle should be replaced every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

You should refill your windshield fluid every few months. Topping it off regularly will keep you from running out when your windshield is dirty or covered in ice.

Maintenance That’s Not Required

Your electric vehicle doesn’t have the following items; thus, you’ll never have to worry about replacing or fixing them:

• Spark plugs
• Air filter
• Fuel filter
• Muffler
• Catalytic converter
• PCV valves
• Exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR)

Explore Pre-Owned Electric and Hybrid Vehicles at Easterns Automotive in DC, Maryland and Virginia

If you’re looking to purchase an electric or hybrid car, but a brand-new vehicle is outside your price range, Easterns Automotive can help.

We have an attractive inventory of used EV and hybrid vehicles to meet your needs. Each car we sell undergoes a rigorous inspection to ensure safety and quality.

Prefer a traditional gasoline car? Check out our full pre-owned inventory featuring hundreds of amazing cars, trucks, vans and SUVs.

Find your perfect pre-owned car by calling (888) 650-4775 or visiting one of our dealership locations.