Cat Dow
Contributor
Cat has been a car journalist since 2012, first gaining ground in motorsport blogging. An introduction to a random FIA project called Formula E, which she covered for Wired.co.uk, catalysed an enthusiasm for electric mobility and initiated some serious globe-trotting.
From there, Cat has led a duplicitous life: by week, all things technology and futuristic from application platforms, connected car software, cloud solutions and networking; by weekend, time-travelling to the past by tinkering with her 1967 Wolseley Hornet ('The Lady') and shirking all social media as much as humanly possible.
She's contributed to various lifestyle and motoring titles along the way, including Auto Express, Diesel Car, Recombu Cars, Green Car Guide, Form Trends, The Sun, The Economist, The Guardian and The Telegraph. You can also find her on her own website.
Now she concentrates on working to educate drivers about the increasing technology in their cars, the benefits of driving electric (it's gonna happen anyway!) and wishing she could grow sideburns like Guy Martin.
Cat's advice for Parkers readers:
- Don't think you're stupid for not understanding tech. It's more complex than you think and it's moving so fast, no-one can keep up. It's not just you
- Don't be afraid to ask, but also, don't dismiss all technologies. Some systems are literally saving lives every day, reducing insurance premiums and, ultimately, saving you money. Be open-minded
- Try to care about tech before it goes wrong and needs troubleshooting. That way it's an education, rather than a frustration
Cat says: 'Tech is becoming a larger part of our car-buying decisions. The pandemic also helped people find a new office in the car during lockdown. Knowing what feature does what and how to best benefit from it - even if that means a change to driving habits - will help us all feel more comfortable about the forthcoming changes.'
Cat is expert in:
- Connected infotainment
- Autonomous future mobility
- Shared mobility - ride-hailing, car-sharing, and those pesky e-scooters
- Electric vehicle choices and charging options
- Handy apps for convenience, such as parking, finding ice-cream and the next awesome podcast
Latest from this author
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All you need to know about dash cams for cars
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09 May 2023
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All you need to know about dash cams for cars
Want to save money on driving and reduce stress and worry? Then check out our guide to buying, fitting and using dash cams for cars, including budget and expensive dash cam options.
03 May 2023
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wireless charging?
Wireless charging is more prevalent in modern cars and it's making
02 Jan 2023
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Best low-emission cars for the ULEZ 2024
If it's time to avoid ULEZ charges and economise your driving budget, consider one of these low-emission cars. Here Parkers list the best on the UK market for 2024.
01 Jan 2023
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Best car interiors 2024
Parkers picks the best car interiors for 2024: the best in comfort, tech and design. Improved connected services also means it's not that crazy to make your car your home office either...
29 Dec 2022
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Driving home for Christmas
Driving home for Christmas? Here are some top tips to make your journey fun and safer.
21 Dec 2022
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Euro NCAP
Euro NCAP ratings matter as they indicate how safe your car is. Find out all you need to know about crash testing organisation Euro NCAP.
19 Dec 2022
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Android Auto?
Android Auto allows users with Android-based phones to connect to the car’s infotainment system and display apps on the central display.
19 Dec 2022
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UK road cameras
New cameras on UK roads detect the use of illegal exhausts. Find out if and where your modified motor might get you fined.
21 Oct 2022
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What is the Plug-in Car Grant?
The government has extended the delivery deadline for vehicles eligible for the Plug-In Car Grant (PiCG). Does this apply to your order?
19 Oct 2022
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Cost to change EV battery
Parkers explores the expected lifetime of an electric car battery and how much it is likely to cost to replace an EV battery.
05 Oct 2022
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Electric car charging points
Understanding electric car charging is the key to making a transition to electric vehicle ownership smooth and stress-free.
29 Sep 2022