The arrival of the first “standard fit” in-car camera used on some new Citroen C3 models will improve their insurance rating.
The camera is integrated infront of the rear view mirror and works automatically to record rolling footage or can be set to take individual images, all downloadable to a smart-phone in the car.
But you dont have to spend tens of thousands of pounds on a new C3 if you want to look after yourself and keep your premiums low.
I have been testing a Thinkware F50 dash-cam costing under £80 and its very good, once you get past the unclear fitting instructions.
Simply select a place on the front windscreen to put the adhesive coated base, preferably close to the mirror but no obstructing your view, slide on the slim camera pack, connect to your aux power socket and you are recording.
It starts and stops automatically with the ignition, the slim card is easy to extract and view and its unobtrusive most of the time. You can carefully run the power cable around the windscreen surround and the fitting kit includes plastic ties and additional sticky pads.
The Thinkware F50 is good value but if you want more features their dash-cam range runs to just under £200 for the F770 which supports a second, rear facing camera for optimum protection, and links to GPS for speed camera alerts.
Not only do they provide running coverage but can be set up record parking incidents when the vehicle is unattended.
The Thinkware dash-cams might be a present you’ll want to give or receive with the knowledge that it could save your no-claims bonus in future.
The THINKWARE F50 Dash Cam is currently available from www.thinkwaredashcam.uk for £79 plug and play or £99 with optional GPS antenna. For more information visit the company’s website at www.thinkware.com