Overcrowded roads, road pricing, environmental zones, nitrogen problems; more than ever, the car feeds heated discussions between supporters and opponents. It challenges the KNAC to come up with sustainable solutions that keep driving clean, safe and affordable.
Since its foundation in 1898, the Royal Dutch Automobile Club (KNAC) has stood up for the interests of motorists. The club is known for its surprising car events, roadside assistance in the Netherlands and Europe and insurance for classic cars, young timers and modern cars. But just as important is the active role that the KNAC plays in the discussion about the future of driving in the Netherlands. That discussion is being held rather flat, says Peter Staal, director of the KNAC.
Costs and revenues
You often hear that cars are polluters and unsafe, so we all have to cycle or use public transport. The KNAC is happy to apply the nuance and actively talks with politicians and interest groups to discuss the pros and cons of driving and to put it in a broader perspective. Car accessibility, for example, contributes to the quality of life, prosperity and well-being of residents of towns and villages. But that does not mean that we think you should be able to drive everywhere. The search for balance is extremely important. And that also applies if you look at the costs and benefits of mobility. Don't forget that cars are a major source of income for the government, where public transport is mainly a cost item. Chasing everyone out of the car sounds sensible, but let's take a good look at the financial feasibility of those kinds of proposals. ”
The future of driving
An important spearhead for the KNAC is the future of driving. “Our association conducts intensive research into the possibilities of clean techniques and we organize hydrogen-themed events. The aim to have only electric cars on Dutch roads by 2025 is not realistic. There are currently more than 9 million cars in the Netherlands and some 400.000 new cars are sold annually. If only electric cars were to be sold from now on, then in 10 years' time about 4 million cars would run on electricity. These figures prove enough. The transition from petrol and diesel cars to electric cars will be gradual and it will therefore take a long time before a substantial part of the fleet runs on electricity. That is why we would like to have meaningful conversations about what is feasible and what is not, with everyone who is open to it. ”
Heart for car enthusiasts
BOVAG director Peter Niesink agrees with the role played by the KNAC. “The KNAC and BOVAG regularly discuss topics such as environmental zones and tax regulations. I think it is very cool that there is such a club as the KNAC in the Netherlands. It is great to see what she does for its members and what all comes out of their passion for cars. ” Ex-Formula 1 driver Gijs van Lennep also sees how the KNAC realistically represents the interests of real car enthusiasts. “They have done fantastic things for Dutch motorsport and they immediately jump into the breach when car-unfriendly measures are likely to be taken. People like cars there, you can tell by everything, without being blind to new developments. ”
Make a fist
"It is beyond dispute that the way we now have to drive a car will change," concludes Peter Staal. “The KNAC therefore likes to make a fist for its members to keep driving affordable, clean and safe. In addition, there are plenty of other good reasons to join. For example, our insurances are very complete and competitively priced and our breakdown assistance goes a little further than that of The ANWB (see box). And of course we organize great car events and we have a wonderful member magazine. That is also why we have been the club for real car enthusiasts for more than 120 years. ”
The roadside assistance of the KNAC continues
The breakdown assistance of the ANWB and the KNAC are similar. However, there are differences that are important for many car enthusiasts. For example, at the ANWB from 2020 you have to call your insurer in the event of a collision or theft abroad. You often do not receive replacement transport. If you have chosen the KNAC Breakdown Service, you can simply call the KNAC and you are entitled to replacement transport. It is also important that you always have the choice at KNAC to which garage you want to have your car brought in case of breakdown. This is an absolute plus for people with a classic car.
