Definition of Zero Kilometer

It has two different uses. On the one hand, it is a denomination that allows decide geographic space in a precise way that normally serves as a point of reference in the measurement of the highways. On the other hand, it is a type of vehicles that are put up for sale and that have specific characteristics.

In most countries there is a place that serves as a reference point

If we take the capital of Spain as an example, in the Puerta del Sol in Madrid there is a granite and brass tile on the floor with the following indication: "Origin of radial roads". Below these words appears the indication Km. 0 and in the center a map with the silhouette of Spain (at the bottom of There are two shields on the tile, one is the emblem of the Civil Engineers and the other is the old shield of the city of Madrid). With this reference the kilometers of the main roads of the territory Spanish.

The national highways that started from Madrid began to be built in the 18th century and since then this kilometer zero has served as a measurement reference.

The tile on which the exact place to measure distances is specified was laid in 1950.

In other capitals of the world this type of indication is also found. In Paris the "Point Zero" is located at the entrance of Notre Dame Cathedral, in London it is located at Charing Cross train station, in Buenos Aires on Congress Square and in Moscow on Plaza Red To the margin Due to their usefulness as a geographical point of reference, these places have a tourist interest.

Like many other traditions and cultural references, this one comes from the civilization of Ancient Rome. The Milliarium Aereum or Golden Miliary in the city of Rome is located very close to the Temple of Saturn and from this place was where the roads of all the Roman empire.

In the automotive world

If someone intends to purchase a car, they have two options: buy a brand new one or a second-hand one. However, there is an intermediate option: acquiring a new vehicle that has already been registered and with which some kilometers have been traveled for some time. reason logistics (for example, that vehicle that has been used for potential buyers to test their driving).

In this sense, a car that had already traveled 500 kilometers would not be within this category.

Vehicles of type Km 0 offer an important advantage for potential buyers: their price presents a discount significant, usually between 5 and 20% compared to an unregistered vehicle. As a general guideline, the warranty for these vehicles is the same as for a new, yet unregistered vehicle.

Fotolia photos: Ingo Bartussek / Yooranpark / Amnatdpp