Author: Olly

Why Every Proper Car Build Needs An Online Garage
If you are deep into projects and late-night tinkering, an online garage for car builds is fast becoming as important as a decent socket set. The scene has shifted from hiding your secrets to flexing your progress, and the cars that get remembered are the ones with a proper digital footprint.

What is an online garage for car builds?

Think of an online garage for car builds as your car’s permanent build thread, spec sheet and photo album all rolled into one. Instead of random posts vanishing into social feeds, you have a dedicated space that tracks the whole journey – from buying a ropey shell to first fire-up and beyond.

It might be a personal site, a build blog, a profile on a directory, or a combo of all three. The key thing is that anyone can find your car, see what has been done, and follow what is coming next without digging through years of memes and tyre shine selfies.

Why serious projects need a digital home

If you are just slamming a daily on cheap coilovers, fair enough, you probably do not need a full online base. But once you are into proper money and hours, having a central build hub pays off in a big way:
- Proof of work: When it comes time to sell, a documented build history helps justify your price and filters out timewasters.
- Tech reference: You forget torque settings, part numbers and wiring hacks. Your online log becomes your own workshop manual.
- Community help: People can see what you are trying to do and offer targeted advice instead of the usual “just LS swap it” replies.
- Show & track cred: Event organisers love cars they can research. A clean online garage makes it easier to get picked for club stands and features.
Building your online garage for car builds

You do not need to be a coder to put something decent together. Start with the basics and level it up as the car evolves.

1. Nail the spec sheet

Have one page or section that lists the full spec: engine, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, wheels, interior, audio, and any custom fabrication. Keep it updated. Nothing looks more dead than a “build” that still says stock turbo three years after the big upgrade.

2. Timeline the build

Break the project into stages: purchase, strip-down, mock-up, first drive, mapping, track or show debuts. Add dates, photos and a few lines on what went right and what went horribly wrong. People love the honesty, and it saves others repeating your mistakes.

3. Decent photos, not just car park snaps

You do not need a DSLR, but you do need to care. Landscape shots, clean backgrounds, bonnet up, underbody, interior, cage details, brake setups – this is what other nerds want to see. Think like a feature photographer, not like you are just proving it exists.

Connecting your online garage to the wider scene

An online garage for car builds really comes alive when it is plugged into the rest of the community. Link out to your socials, club pages and any feature write-ups. If your car is listed in an online directory like Maxxd Directory, make sure the details match so people know it is the same build.

You can even go a step further and get your own domain so the car has a permanent home, regardless of which platforms are hot this year. If you want something a bit more polished than a basic template, there are proper website designers who understand automotive brands and can give your build the kind of presence it deserves.

Keeping your digital build thread alive

Nothing kills hype like an abandoned project page. Even small updates matter: fresh tyres, a new map, fixing that rattle that has annoyed you for months. Treat it like a logbook – if you wrench on the car, you drop a quick update.

Online garage for car builds FAQs

Do I really need an online garage for car builds if I already use social media?

Social media is great for quick hits, but posts disappear down the feed fast. An online garage for car builds gives you one organised place for specs, photos and progress, so people can follow the whole story without digging through years of random content.

What should I include in my online garage for car builds?

Include a full spec list, a timeline of key stages, plenty of clear photos, and notes on what worked or failed. Add details like alignment settings, part numbers and mapping info so your online garage for car builds becomes a genuine reference, not just a flex.

Can an online garage for car builds help when selling my car?

Yes, a well maintained online garage for car builds acts like a service history plus proof of mods. Buyers can see the quality of work, parts used and how the car has evolved, which helps justify your asking price and builds trust from the start.
January 27, 2026
Are Electric Campervans Really The Future Of Road Trips?

Electric campervans are finally starting to look like a real option for UK road trips, not just a concept car for motor shows. For anyone who lives for late-night B-road blasts and long weekends chasing tracks and meets, electric campervans are suddenly on the radar – but are they actually usable, or just another eco buzzword?

Why everyone is suddenly talking about electric campervans

There are a few reasons these things are popping up all over your feed. First, more cities are clamping down on older diesels with clean air zones and low emission charges. Second, battery tech has moved on from the early EV days, so we are not talking 60 mile ranges and anxiety every time you see a hill. Finally, a lot of us are clocking up serious miles to shows, tracks and meets, and the idea of cutting fuel costs without driving a boring eco box is actually pretty tempting.

Manufacturers have clocked this, which is why you are seeing factory-built electric vans with half-decent ranges and proper payloads. The base vehicles for future campers are already out there, and converters are wasting no time turning them into rolling tiny homes.

Real-world range: can an electric campervan actually tour?

On paper, some of the newer electric vans claim 200-plus miles, but anyone who has ever modded a car knows brochure numbers are fantasy. Add weight from units, beds, leisure batteries and all your gear, then factor in motorway speeds, cold weather and a bit of spirited driving, and that range drops fast.

Right now, a realistic touring setup means planning around 130 to 170 miles between proper charges if you want a bit of safety buffer. For UK use that actually is not terrible: that will get you from the Midlands to most big show grounds or coastal spots with one decent stop. If your idea of a road trip is smashing out 600 miles in a day across Europe, you will need patience and a good playlist.

Charging on the road: from services to campsites

The good news is the rapid charger network is miles better than it was even a few years back. Motorway services and big A-road sites usually have something you can plug into, although you might have to move if you are in a longer wheelbase van and the bays are tight. The bad news is you are now planning your trip around charge stops, not just fuel and food.

Campsites are slowly catching up, but most are still built around basic hook-ups meant for kettles and heaters, not fast-charging a van. You can trickle charge overnight, which is fine for chilled weekenders, but if you want to hit a track day one morning, then blast to a night meet the same evening, you will need public rapid chargers in your plan.

Converting your own van vs buying factory-built

This is where it gets interesting for the modding crowd. Traditional diesel campers are easy – find a solid base van, throw in insulation, wiring, a rock and roll bed, and you are laughing. With electric campervans, you are dealing with high-voltage systems, battery cooling and weight limits that actually matter for range and safety.

DIY conversions are still possible, but you need to be switched on. You cannot just slam it to the floor on big wheels, bolt on a full steel interior and expect the same range. Weight saving becomes a serious part of the build spec. Lightweight furniture, clever storage and thinking about aerodynamics all make a difference. Some of the thinking is similar to how builders approach a Fabric-first retrofit on a house – sort the fundamentals before you worry about the shiny bits.

Are electric campervans actually fun to drive?

Surprisingly, yes. Instant torque in a van is hilarious, especially when you are pulling out of junctions or climbing hills fully loaded. No gear changes, no lag, just quiet shove. For late-night drives to meets or sunrise runs to the coast, the lack of engine noise makes it a different kind of vibe – more chill, less drama, but still enjoyable.

Electric campervans FAQs

How far can an electric campervan really go on a single charge?

Most current electric vans used for camper conversions can realistically manage around 130 to 170 miles between charges once you factor in extra weight, motorway speeds and real-world driving. Official figures are usually higher, but they rarely match what you will see when the van is fully loaded with camping gear and people. Planning routes around rapid chargers and allowing a safety buffer is essential if you are touring.

Can I convert a used electric van into a camper myself?

You can, but it is more involved than converting a diesel. The high-voltage systems and battery cooling should be left alone unless you are properly qualified. Most DIY builders focus on the interior fit-out, 12v systems and insulation, while leaving the drivetrain stock. Weight is a much bigger deal on an EV, so using lightweight materials and planning the layout carefully will help preserve range and keep the van safe and legal.

Are electric campervans suitable for winter camping in the UK?

They can work for winter trips, but you need to plan carefully. Cold weather hits battery range, and using electric heating inside the van will drain it faster. Many builds use efficient diesel or gas heaters for the living space while the main battery just handles driving. Preheating the cabin while plugged in and choosing sites with hook-ups makes winter camping in an electric van much more practical.

January 14, 2026
How To Choose Safe Track Day Gear Without Blowing Your Budget
If you are planning your first laps on circuit, choosing the right track day safety gear can feel overwhelming. Between regulations, ratings and endless brand options, it is hard to know what you actually need, what is worth spending extra on, and where you can sensibly save.

This guide breaks down the main pieces of kit for UK track days, how to prioritise your budget, and the key safety standards to look for so you can enjoy your time on track with confidence.

Understanding UK track day safety rules

Before you reach for your wallet, it helps to know what most UK circuits and organisers actually require. Rules vary slightly, but the basics are similar:
- A properly fitting helmet that meets recognised motorsport or motorcycle standards
- Arms and legs covered as a minimum, usually with non-synthetic clothing
- Secure footwear that covers the whole foot
- Seat belts and seats in good condition with no visible damage
Some organisers are stricter, especially for faster cars or open-top vehicles. If you are running slick tyres, heavily modified suspension or entering an open pit lane event, expect closer scrutiny of your track day safety gear and car preparation.

Helmet standards and why they matter

The helmet is the one item you should never compromise on. Look for current motorsport or top-tier motorcycle approvals, and avoid old lids with unknown history. Many drivers start with a decent bike helmet, then upgrade to a dedicated car lid with HANS posts once they get serious.

Fit is crucial: the helmet should be snug without painful pressure points, stay put when you shake your head, and not lift at speed with the windows open. If you are unsure, buy from a specialist who can size you properly and explain the differences between models. Specialist motorsport retailers also stock a wide range of motorsport helmets that meet current regulations.

Race suits, gloves and boots: what you really need

For casual track days in a road car, full flameproof kit is usually not mandatory, but it is still worth understanding your options.

Race suits

Fire-resistant suits are designed for competition, but more and more regular track drivers are choosing them for peace of mind. If you do buy a suit, look for recognised fire safety ratings and avoid bargain-basement gear with no clear labelling. A single-layer suit is normally fine for track days, but a multi-layer garment offers more protection and is a better investment if you plan to progress into club racing.

Gloves

Gloves are often overlooked, yet they can transform your feel for the steering wheel and offer vital protection in a fire. Look for thin palms for feedback, grippy material on the fingers, and a snug fit that does not bunch up. Even non-fireproof driving gloves are a big step up from bare hands, especially in hot conditions where sweat can make the wheel slippery.

Boots

Dedicated driving boots have thin, flexible soles and narrow profiles that make heel-and-toe and precise pedal work much easier. High-top designs also help support your ankles. If you are on a tight budget, pick a pair of trainers with thin soles and no bulky edges that might snag between pedals, then upgrade later.

Balancing budget and protection

Not everyone has the funds to buy a full professional kit bag on day one. The smart way to build your collection of track day safety gear is to prioritise in this order:
1. Quality helmet that fits properly
2. Secure, pedal-friendly footwear
3. Gloves for grip and comfort
4. Fire-resistant suit and underwear if you plan to attend frequent events
Buy the best helmet you can afford, then look for mid-range options for the rest. Second-hand gear can be tempting, but avoid used helmets, and be cautious with suits that may have been involved in incidents or poorly stored.

Comfort, visibility and communication

Comfort is a safety feature in itself. If you are distracted by pressure points, fogged visors or aching feet, you are more likely to make mistakes.

Track day safety gear FAQs

Do I need a full fireproof race suit for a normal UK track day?

For most casual UK track days in a standard road car, a fireproof race suit is not mandatory. Organisers usually require arms and legs to be fully covered with non-synthetic clothing as a minimum. However, if you attend events regularly, drive a heavily modified car or plan to move into club racing, investing in a certified fire-resistant suit is a sensible step for extra protection.

Can I use my motorcycle helmet on a car track day?

Many organisers will accept a good quality motorcycle helmet, provided it is in sound condition and meets recognised safety standards. Check the event regulations carefully, as some specify particular approvals or disallow very old lids. Your helmet must fit properly, have no cracks or deep scratches, and the strap and lining should be in good order. If you plan to progress into more serious track driving, consider upgrading to a motorsport-specific car helmet in time.

What is the minimum track day safety gear I should buy for my first event?

For a first event, prioritise a properly fitting, approved helmet, sturdy footwear that allows good pedal feel, and comfortable clothing that covers your arms and legs. Add a pair of driving gloves for grip and control if your budget allows. Over time you can expand your kit with fireproof suits, boots and additional protective items as you attend more events and your pace on circuit increases.
December 22, 2025