Kurbads opens a branch in Germany

Vehicle Transportation and Logistics Company “Kurbads” has opened a branch in Germany – in the land where the company began its work at the outset of its foundation. Germany is the land where initially we had to wait in line on the border sometimes for days to transit from the East to the West, and it was back in the day, when we could scarcely imagine that one day Europe would be open to all, and that it would provide Kurbads with the opportunity to call it its second home.

 

Expanding logistics opportunities in Europe

The opening of the Kurbads Logistics Centre in Germany is the next step for the growth and development of the company. This project is implemented to expand the company’s opportunities in Europe, as well as to develop the Kurbads brand in Germany. As Andis Pikāns, chairman of the board of Kurbads put it – this will give us an opportunity to be closer to our current business partners in Germany, and it will open the doors to new ones.

kurbads car carrier and office

 

Work of Latvian craftsmen in Germany

The German branch “Kurbads GmbH” will be housed in Genthin, a town close to Berlin, located at strategically important crossroads right next to the A2 motorway. The centre will house a logistics base, a warehouse, an office as well as resting facilities for drivers. It should be noted that the office facilities, which have been built using modular construction, were made in Latvia by a company that specialises in wood design modular building development. We are very proud to have Latvian craftsmanship represented in Germany. Special attention should be paid to the entrance door and the facade, where you can see a wood crafted panno with the ancient Latvian symbols of power, which Kurbads holds in high esteem.

Kurbads office in germany

 

Exterior from hundred-year old boards

This panno is a true piece of art – its author used hundred-year old boards from Latvian farmhouses scheduled for demolition. We are particularly pleased not only about the visual result that brings joy, but also about the reuse of old materials. Ivars Sedlenieks, chief of “KSD kompānija” Ltd. was the author of this project: “It was challenging, because the principles of modular construction were used in the construction of a more sophisticated facility. In the interior and exterior fittings of the modules we used fir – a specifically designed wood; all the doors and windows were made from uPVC Rehau profiles with triple pane glass. The terrace was constructed using the Siberian larch whose resistance to weather conditions is significantly higher than that of any coniferous trees that grow in Latvia.”

Kurbads office in germany

 

A quarter of a century has passed!

In August, the Vehicle Transportation and Logistics Company “Kurbads” will be celebrating its 26th anniversary. Over the course of a quarter of a century, we have acquired experience to tackle new heights in new countries. We are therefore looking for drivers-expeditors to join our Kurbads team to work in the new branch in Germany. It is your opportunity to become a part of a team of highway warriors, as well as to work with the transportation of the best vehicles in the world!

kurbads car carrier and office

Fiat Abarth 595 SS – the iconic Italian charm

Sophisticated design and the ability to be relevant through time is the secret of Fiat’s success and eternal youth. Every day, the Kurbads logistics center is delighted by new, exclusive and admirable vehicles. When we received photos from the driver-forwarder Viesturs, who had accumulated a Fiat Abarth 595 SS, we were convinced right away – we had to take a shot. The red color of the car complements its hot-blooded charm and gives an admiration worthy look. The Fiat Abarth 595 SS was created based on its predecessor, the Fiat 500. The special model is a masterpiece by Carlo Abarth, a car designer.

Behind the speed, performance and accuracy of a scorpion is Carlo Abarth, a personality who forever changed and influenced the work of Fiat. Carlo’s trademark and symbol was a scorpion – determined, strong and passionate. Scorpio was not chosen at random, it is the astrological sign of the designer himself. Carlo’s masterpieces attracted car manufacturers such as Alfa Romeo, Maserati and Ferrari. Carl’s first triumph was the Fiat Abarth 750 GT, using the Fiat 600 as a base. The Fiat Abarth 750 GT set several speed and endurance records. In turn, the second success was the Fiat Abarth 595. The car broke six international speed records and scored around 900 wins.

The secret of the Fiat Abarth 595 SS is the improvements made by Carlo. A special cylinder casting technique was used, more powerful valve springs were installed together with the camshaft, which allowed to increase the engine speed and, consequently, power. Even the lubrication system has been modified. These mechanical improvements transformed the small Fiat 500 and allowed an increase in power from 22 to 34 horsepower. The conversion halved the acceleration time of the standard car and endowed the Fiat Abarth 595 SS with a top speed of 130 km/h.

Undoubtedly, a version of the Fiat Abarth 595 has also been released, which is not supplemented with so many extras, therefore its price is on average 55,000 EUR. The price of the modified model Fiat Abarth 595 SS starts from 70,000 EUR.

Kurbads chooses Volkswagen ID.3 1ST

We’re keeping up with the times and choosing the electric car Volkswagen ID.3. We also try to introduce more environmentally friendly habits into our daily lives – we sort waste, choose recycled materials and now we also have an electric car. The decision to get an electric car was certain.

The author and implementer of the car design idea is our reliable artist Alfreds Paulauskas. Thanks to Alfred, we will drive through the streets of Riga environmentally friendly and with chic.
“People don’t suspect that the body of the car is not flat at all, it is a sphere rather than a cube, and you’d have to think hard about getting each design element exactly where it should be and to get the result to look the same in life, as in the layout. This time, worried about the deadlines, I asked for help from two experienced gluers, for whom it is as easy a thing to pull the car into the adhesive film, as to put on pants in the morning. So all I had to do was join in, lead the way and enjoy the process of gluing each part and my idea came to life step by step exactly as I had intended, ”says Alfreds about the car gluing process.

Toms Hartmanis, the head of Kurbads logistics department and a member of the board, had gone to the event to receive the car at Volkswagen Latvia. The emotions after removing the car cover were sincere. The car itself, Volkswagen ID.3, had been in Kurbads’ logistics center for a couple of weeks, but the custom Alfred’s design had only been seen by Volkswagen employees.

We’re excited about the new and captivating Kurbads car!
Let’s roll!

Volkswagen ID.3 1ST arrives in Latvia

We’re happy to announce that we, car transport company Kurbads, have the opportunity to deliver to Latvia the newest and very first Volkswagen ID.3 1ST cars – environmentally friendly, well thought out and convenient to use.
ID.3 1ST is equipped with a medium-sized battery, its mileage – up to 420 km.

As time goes on, standard models will have a choice of three battery performance versions – small, medium and large. With a small battery (45 kWh) it will be possible to drive up to 330 km, but with a large battery (77 kWh) the distance will be up to 550 km. So to speak, do not judge a car by its cover. Five-seated hatchback with an attractive design and the latest technology. The steering wheel and dashboard screen are taken over from the latest Golf 8.

Nonetheless, the space and the size of the car are suitable both, for driving in
the narrow streets of the city, and for long holiday trips in the nature.
The name of the car includes the letter combination ID and the number 3.

The translation of the abbreviation ID is an intelligent design that is supplemented with meaning – intelligent, with its own identity, and based on futuristic technologies. However, the number 3 has two meanings. On one hand, it indicates the compact segment, the division of the car’s class into both internal and industry classification systems. On the other hand, ID.3 is a continuation of the Beetle and Golf era, namely, this model is positioned as the third important stopping point of the Volkswagen brand.

Kurbads on the road for 25 years already

August is the birthday month for the transport and logistics company “Kurbads”. This year, August 31st, marks the 25th time already, when the company’s employees, former colleagues and contemporaries meet to remember and rejoice in what they have done, as well as to dream about what more could be done in the time to come.

“Compared to a person’s lifetime, is 25 years a lot or not that much? Similarities can certainly be found, but I think there are pretty big differences between a person’s lifetime and a company’s lifetime. A person can do a lot in both 25 and 80 years, the question is what is their pace and how long they have left to live on this planet,” the head of the company Andis Pikāns reflects on 25 years time.

Since August 31, 1995, the company has grown and developed without losing vitality and ground under its feet. The company has experienced and survived all the crises since the restoration of an independent Latvia, even after the most recent, the Covid-19 pandemic, the company continues its operations without losing the spirit. The most important values ​​of “Kurbads” are maintained and improved each year. Those are loyalty to their customers, high quality of the service provided and, of course, national identity.

The birthday party was celebrated on the company’s cozy premises. The musical atmosphere for the event was created by the Rihards Lībietis trio – Rihards Lībietis (guitars), Erna Daugaviete (the cello) and Matīss Repsis (percussion).

Accompanied by instrumentally dynamic music, photo exhibition was opened – Kurbads 25. The photos featured 25 employees who have made a huge contribution to the company’s development.

The biggest surprise of the evening was towing of Kurbads’ trucks. The strongmen, Mareks Leitis and Aivars Šmaukstelis, showed the guests their strength and dexterity while towing our heavy vehicles weighing as much as up to 19 tons.

“In the last 25 years, I have tried to build a sustainable and lasting company. By doing what I like, I want to maintain the collective energy and be responsible both, for the employees and to the state in the future as well,” sums up the head of the company Andis Pikāns.

Morgan Plus 8 – The aristocratic glitz of cinema

The authenticity, nobility and retro elegance of the British car manufacturer Morgan has remained untouched for more than 110 years. Each part is individually tailored, starting from design and technical equipment to production features, meaning that the Morgan is designed and built to be an individual just like its owner.

When transporting rare and especially valuable cars, the main task of Kurbads’ drivers is to ensure the highest level of accuracy and quality. Depending on the location, condition and value of each car, the best and most successful way to get it from point A to point B is chosen. The Morgan car arrived at the Kurbads’ logistics center in the late afternoon. The car received admiration, interest and glances from both, the gentlemen and the ladies, in the evening of car’s arrival and on the next day too.

Morgan cars are considered to be the only legitimate sports cars, because the British were never interested in reaching the highest, maximum power, but in every-day use features. Seeing such an attractive and classic Morgan car, footage from the film about Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson comes to mind. Each Morgan car is truly handmade and fundamentally uses three materials: ash wood, aluminum and leather. Each model combines years of heritage, innovation and modern technology, thus achieving a high-class masterpiece.

Preserving its true DNA as an already experienced sports car manufacturer, the Morgan 8 plus model is equipped with a 204-horsepower engine. The maximum speed that this masterpiece-worthy car can reach is 220 km / h.

Externally, the noble, aristocratic and aesthetically pleasing appearance of Morgan cars is complemented by smooth lines and soft shapes, achieving a simple and natural effect. However, when looking inside, you can see an ash wooden frame lined with aluminum body panels. The elegant black leather interior and customized details are able to highlight the character of the car’s owner.

Due to private orders and car collectors, prices for Morgan cars are calculated individually. In total, Morgan 8 plus car prices start from 48,000 EUR.

Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu 1969 – The idealization of America’s sunny coast

The Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu, built in 1969, is able to show who is the boss on the road. During the visit to Kurbads logistics center, everyone appreciated the sophistication of the Chevrolet Chevelle, as this model is one of the most successful and memorable ones. The Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Convertible belongs to the second generation, ie, from 1968 to 1972, the existing Malibu and other Chevelles series cars were modified and improved both visually and technically.

The name of the car model includes the name – “Chevelle”. Chevelle is a woman’s name derived from the Hebrew language. “My devotion to God” and “brave and beautiful,” is the meaning of the name. In turn, the sound of the names in Spanish means an alternative form to the woman’s word “Isabela”.

From 1964 to 1983, the Chevrolet was decorated with the name “Malibu”. The noble vehicle got its name from Malibu, off the coast of California, North America. In general, the Chevrolet Malibu can be described as a medium-sized car, which over time is joined and complemented by sophisticated elements.

The brilliance and elegance of the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu was shown in the cult film Pulp Fiction by American movie director Quentin Tarantino. In the movie, the owner of the car is Vincent Vega, played by actor John Travolta. This is by no means the only Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu moment of fame. The car has also been used in movies such as “S.W.A.T.”, “Repo Man”, “Dazed and Confused”.

Undeniably, Chevrolet cars are called the most classic, most reliable and traditional American vehicles. The Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu is equipped with a 200-horsepower engine. The maximum speed that this convertible can reach is 186 km per hour.

Visually, the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu attracts with its elegantly ostentatious appearance. High-speed body with a very smooth non-existent transition, Coca-Cola bottle side wall, which resembles a Coca-Cola bottle in shape. An aggressive and chivalrous grille on the front, integrated bumpers and chrome nuances complete the image of the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu. The concisely simple, yet exclusive leather interior, gives out the vibes of an American movie from the 60’s, which gives the car a masculine and bold look.

For the most part, the price of the masterpiece of the last century is set by a collector who has decided to part with the car. The auction price of Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu starts from 36 000 EUR.

Mercedes-Benz 230 Pullman-Landaulet 1939 – an authentic retro masterpiece

Teleportation to the late 1930s with the Mercedes-Benz 230 Pullman-Landaulet in 1939 is truly bona fide. Nowadays, there are more and more collectors of exclusive cars, so real treasures can be found visiting the Kurbads logistics center. The Mercedes-Benz 230 Pullman-Landaulet, built in 1939, has regained its second breath thanks to its skilled craftsmen.

The name of the car model includes the characteristic “Pullman.” Pullman translates from English as “extremely comfortable train wagon.” The title originated in America and is still used. The Mercedes-Benz model is equipped with an extra-long wheelbase and an extended passenger compartment, which usually has four separate seats, facing each other, as usual in limousines. However, the description of the model in the English translation of ‘Landaulet’ means ‘superstructure’s type with an opening roof above the backseats’. The very first and special “Pullman-Landaulet” with a semi-opening roof, and an even more raised roof and four doors was given by the company in 1964 to Pope Paul VI of Rome, a gift the Vatican accepted and used for 20 years.

The Mercedes-Benz 230 Pullman-Landaulet 1939 was produced in the 1930s, when status in society was more important than it is today. The car is equipped with a 55 horsepower engine. The maximum speed that this retro car can reach is 116 km / h. The average fuel consumption per 100 km is 14 l.

Hearing about the Mercedes-Benz brand, everyone’s thoughts become visualized and associated with high-class elegance, luxury and the fulfillment of dreams. Given the status of this special model retro car, it is clear that Mercedes-Benz values go hand in hand through the centuries. The elegant black color of the car forms an organic combination with the cream-colored interior of the passenger compartment. Also, the driver’s and passenger’s areas are separated, so the mood of the limousine is not lost.

Exclusive retro cars are mostly sold at auctions. Consequently, the price range is indeterminate, the more exclusive the offer, the higher the price the car collector is willing to pay for it. The price of Mercedes-Benz 230 Pullman-Landaulet starts from 40 000 EUR.

Brabus 800 – Mercedes-AMG G 63 – the dreams of luxury come true in the city

Visual elegance, state-of-the-art technology and, most importantly, an unforgettable driving experience combined in every Brabus car. At the beginning of May, the Brabus 800 arrived at the Kurbads logistics center with a truck. With its uniqueness, the supercar makes everyone turn their heads. The Brabus 800 – Mercedes-AMG G 63 – standard equipment is complemented by a V8 engine, Burmester® surround sound system and, of course, AMG driving control is an integral part. The car’s powerful parade on the highway can really leave an impression.

The Mercedes-AMG G-Class was born 40 years ago. Driving through the time, with its unique off-road DNA, it is improved and adapted to today’s trends. The car’s distinctive features – its front end, clear and large lines, two large windows in the rear of the cabin and a spare wheel at the rear door – have been retained for decades. Brabus, a prestigious car tuning company from Germany, is honing and improving these features that have been preserved for decades according to customer expectations.

The combination of comfort and luxury creates a worthy revolution in a sports car, with the equipped V8 engine Brabus is able to develop 800 horsepower. Up to 100 km / h, the Brabus 800 is capable of accelerating in 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 240 km / h. The average fuel consumption in the city per 100 km is 16.5 l.

The Burmester® surround sound system provides first-class sound for true music lovers. By adjusting the surround sound functions or sound optimization for the front and rear seats, the car can create both, a rock-worthy rumble and a nuanced cello string sound at a classical music concert.

Each of the Brabus cars is as unique as its driver. Thus, the driver’s dreams have no limits – every request is fulfilled down to the smallest detail. The color and exclusivity of the interior is ensured by high-quality Nappa leather upholstery. It is complemented by aluminum pedal pads, interior ceiling trim and decorative thresholds. Of course, in the winter months a high feeling of comfort is created by a heated multifunctional steering wheel.

Brabus prepares its cars after individual order. Therefore, the price range is wide, Brabus 800 cars can be purchased starting from 367,000 EUR.

Topicalities of international auto transporting during the Covid-19 pandemic

Car transport and logistics company “Kurbads”, during the prevalence  of Covid-19, continues its activities, looking bright on the future. Although the situation in the car industry as a whole is still difficult, Kurbads’ hauliers are still on the road and fulfilling orders.

Many car manufacturers have resumed or are planning to resume operations in the near future, but this does not alleviate the difficult situation in the car industry as such. Car manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and others have resumed production in Europe. As demand for new cars remains low, production volumes are not picking up much. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to predict whether the demand for new cars will increase at the previous level in the near future. At the moment, it is too early to tell the time and pace at which car transporting will increase. Given that the transport capacity of freight carriers exceeds the amount of freight available on the market, there is a lot of pressure on transport prices. There will be a negative impact on the industry as a whole, as deliveries are made at a price that covers wages and fuel costs. Without providing any additional costs – for repairs, maintenance, wear and tear and other positions.

Among the types of support offered by the Latvian state, the company “Kurbads” has used the loan of the Development Financial Institution “Altum” and the possibility to defer tax payments. Also, of course, the company has used the opportunity to apply for downtime benefits, which are granted and paid by the State Revenue Service (SRS). Kurbads has applied for downtime benefits for about 40% of the employees. Thus preserving as many jobs as possible so that it is possible to continue working at full capacity immediately after the crisis.

The company “Kurbads” expects economic stimulus measures from the government, after the emergency situation. Namely, subsidies for the purchase of electric cars, aid for the replacement of old cars with new ones, similar to the measures implemented in Germany. The German government and car companies will increase subsidies for the purchase of electric cars, the project will run until 2025, and the costs will be covered by the German government and companies. In particular, new Eurofunds would be useful to stimulate the economy. Namely, support for construction, renovation, business start-up, development. And, for the transport sector, a reduction in excise duty would help, as planned in Estonia.

In general, the car transport and logistics company Kurbads will fight the consequences of the crisis caused by the Covid-19 virus. By the end of the summer, it is planned to reach about 70% of the turnover before the Covid-19 crisis. It is worth mentioning that this year the company marks its 25th anniversary, which was planned to be celebrated with tremendous celebrations among the closest friends and cooperation partners. Due to the constraints of the emergency situation, Kurbads will shift the celebration of the big event to a safer and more peaceful time.