THE SALOON.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 14 April 1928, Page 14

THE SALOON.

PROPER, VENTILATION. The saloon is the typical car of today and the future. It is preferred by many owner-drivers because it is always ready for use in all weathers, and keeps a reasonably smart appearance with a minimum of attention. Its interior display as more attractive than an open car, and it makes a special appeal to women, whose choice influences to a great extent the sale of the majority of cans purchased. The chief criticism which is levelled against the saloon is its lack of ventilation. It's defects in this direction are not so alarming as might he supposed from the opinions expressed by fresh-air enthusiasts, but nevertheless there is room for improvement, in manj bodies. Ventilation should he regarded as of the same importance «s other factors of comfort, such as the design of the seats or the elimination of noise and rattle. The amount of ventilation required is, more or less, a matter of individual temperament. < ' Some travellers seem to thrive in and enjoy the atmosphere- which is regarded as stuffy and insufferable by others, hut two persons whose preference in this direction differ widely can travel with equal pleasure in the same car if adequate ventilation is provided automatically and at the right temperature. The front part of the body should he permanently well ventilated without having to open the main windows, and the screen, whether adjustable or fixed, should have a ventilator above it. The ventilation, as well as the observational, value of a saloon is considerably improved if the front part of the roof is made to open. If the roof

is fitted with a fixed or hinged glass window, this is liable to raise the temperature of the car oil a hot day, so that it should be fitted with a blind, the best type being an outside one of waterproof material. As an additional means of ventilating the front of the body an air outlet above the window of the front doors is very effective. Modern design leaves no room between the door top and cant rail for any ventilator, so- that, if one is to be provided here, it must lie below the top iine of the door. A similar device may be fitted to the rear doors. A well-designed saloon is one which is not merely pleasing to the eye and has luxurious seats, but a car which, provided with a scheme of ventilation, gives satisfaction under all conditions of travel.