Car Musings

All-electric Smart car

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:10:00 +0000

Lotus has just decided to create a design for an all-electric Smart ForTwo. Here's how it looks like...

Nice right? what do you think?

Parajet skycar

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:03:00 +0000

A lot of innovations have been coming to the auto industry and this includes flying cars.

Moller and Terrafugia are already taking preorders for their flying cars, and now Parajet has joined the league and is offering its SkyCar for preorder. SkyCar is powered by an R1 engine, and can achieve a top speed of 140mph and rush from zero to 62mph in just 4.2 seconds.

Hi-tech ride for the blind

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 06:34:00 +0000

Virginia tech has invented a car that lets even visually impaired people to drive. How is this possible?

The retrofitted dirt-buggy uses a number of technologies to assist its driver, an on-board computer provides sensory information that can be used to handle the steering wheel, accelerate, or stop the vehicle. At the heart of the system is a laser range finder that serves as the “eyes” for the driver.

Grill on the go with portable tailgate grill

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 06:07:00 +0000

Want some barbecue while you're driving?

Well, now you could enjoy a hot barbecue with Margaritaville portable tailgate grill.

Margaritaville Portable Tailgate Grill is specially created to ride outside a sizeable car like an SUV, a pickup or an RV. It is easy to operate and fires up to 20,000 BTUs of heat that spreads over 352 square inches cooking surface. All that space is large enough for burgers, chicken, veggies, and anything else you like.

Rare vehicles to be sold by Bonhams

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 02:10:00 +0000

Known for their rare and exotic vehicles, Bonhams will soon be having an auction that would make rare vehicles available to car enthusiasts out there.

On Saturday, July 18 at Henley-on-Thames, the auction house will be selling vehicles from one of Europe’s foremost collections of early vehicles - The Ward Brothers’ Collection.

Car Key Spy Camera

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 01:59:00 +0000

Well, this deceiving gadget will have everyone think that it's a real car key. But it's not.

This is actually a camera that could capture 640 x 480 video at 29fps, or 1280 x 960 images. it has 2 GB memory. This can be yours for only $66.

Arcade graphics in Mini Cooper

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 01:52:00 +0000

Created by Portland based artist matt W. Moore, this Mini Cooper is covered with arcade graphics.

The art includes retro games like Pacman and Space Invaders painted on the convertible to create a unique geeky wrap.

Bumblebee conquers China

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:08:00 +0000

It seems that Transformers fans has been so addicted to Bumblebee....

Based on reports, Chinese people took yellow cars to the roads and made sure they are covered with stripes similar to the car in the movie.

Check out the photo...

F1 made of styrofoam

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:05:00 +0000

Check this out...

A very creative masterpiece by Michael Salter. Formula One created out of purely styrofoam. I just hope we could really use this to drive...

The Cube Vehicle

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:35:00 +0000

Presenting the Cube vehicle...

New sound system for Audi A5 Sportback

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 05:42:00 +0000

Bang & Olufsen has just announced the availability of a unique sound system for the new Audi A5 Sportback. The Bang & Olufsen Sound System for the Audi A5 Sportback has been crafted especially to suit the sporty looks of the 5-door coupe. Guaranteed for a perfect listening experience, the system is made up of 14 speakers installed at different parts of the car. The aluminum rings integrated in the speaker grills blend flawlessly with the eye-catching interior of the A5 Sportback. The Audi A5 Sportback also plays DVD-Video. With the optional Audi MMI Navigation. Plus, the coupe also has a 10GB Jukebox, CD/DVD player and a 7-inch high resolution wide screen. Moreover, the company’s proprietary True Image technology turns 2- and 5.1-channel signals into 7.1-channel surround sound, which will perfectly complete a great driving experience. Bang & Olufsen’s car audio systems are known for their technology, design and artistry, and the new sound system for the Audi A5 Sportback is no exception.

From: Bang & Olfusen

Chrysler Limo: A future amphibious vehicle

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 05:36:00 +0000

Found this in one of my bookmarks... A school project created by Siklosi Tamas and promoted by Daimler-Chrysler, this limousine will surely make a turning point for the automotive industry.

The project proposes a vehicle that can be used on land as a classic high-end sportive limousine and on water as a top-class sailing. The design uses futuristic sails that come out of the doors when on water to navigate.

Well, if future cars will be something like this... water transportations like boats will surely be phased out.

Great Mods for Porsche Cayenne

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 05:26:00 +0000

Porsche Cayenne was never perceived as one of the most beautiful cars in the market. But with the help of MAFF Muron, a good work could probably change its looks. And so they did with a new body kit.

MAFF Muron's cosmetic surgery gave the Cayenne a new, longer nose, new side skirts, modded C-pillars, and a new two tone paint scheme. Now, you'll definitely do a double-take.

Auto gadgets gifts for Father's Day

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 02:57:00 +0000

It's Father's day again so allow me to give you some gift ideas for dads who love to pimp up their ride...

1. 7-inch Bluetooth Car GPS DG-722
A portable all-in one car GPS navigation. MP3 and MP4 capable. This 7.0 inch wide screen display with touch panel also has bluetooth and picture viewer. See details here

2. Kiwi Fuel Saving Device

A plug-and-play device compatible with all 1996 vehicles and up. Kiwi is able to obtain detailed sensor information about your vehicle. This sensor data including vehicle speed, RPM, engine load, and oxygen sensor readings are all analyzed to determine your vehicle’s optimum driving efficiency.

3. Coffee cup inverter

The Coffee Cup Power Inverter is a conveniently shaped power source that coverts your car's DC power into two 120-volt AC outlets. Perfect for powering or charging TV's, DVD players, game consoles, cell phones, and other portable electronics.

4. Bodygard 5-in-one emergency tool

The newest member of the Swiss+Tech family of quality-made “micro-tools,” the BodyGard 5-in-1 Emergency Tool incorporates five specific devices: automatic glass breaker, safety-blade seat belt cutter, sonic alarm, flashing red distress light, and bright-white LED flashlight. It's designed to help drivers escape from their vehicles when the windows or doors fail to operate due to vehicle damage, fire or submersion.

5. Anti- Sleep Driving Alarm

A device designed for long distance truck drivers or professional drivers who run the risk of falling asleep behind the wheel, the Anti Sleep Driving Alarm rests comfortably behind your ear. If your head tilts forward more than 30 degrees a high-pitched alarm will sound and bring you back to reality. Great for gamers, students, security guards, late-night coders, secret underground bunker employees, convenience store nightshift, pilots, etc.

Take your pick now. Or if you don't like any of those, try visiting some online car parts shop.

Driving Clean

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 02:39:00 +0000

Source: Coolestgizmo.com

No. This is not another BMW or Honda electric car. But allow me to introduce you to the 4000 Watts Roadster.

Committed in saving and preserving the environment and the ecological balance, this electric vehicle is designed for clean driving and a less-noise ride. Described as a low-speed car, it only travels a short distance but is capable of running 25 miles per hour on a single charge. However, it is still a good choice for short-distance travels and inner city drives and errands. After all, it can be driven for full eight hours when fully charged.

Driver-less Robot Cab

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Tue, 19 May 2009 03:02:00 +0000

Created by Designer Kubik Peter, this automated transport is electrically powered, and can seat about two individuals. This cab is comprised of two main parts – an undercarriage and a cabin.

It is driven by two electric motors, which are integrated, into the rear wheels. To ensure maximum mileage, the car will be built from lightweight materials

Cool Gadget: Drivemocion

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Tue, 19 May 2009 02:40:00 +0000

Pimp up your ride and install this fabulous car gadget. It is a special LED as messages and emocions (“smileys”) which drivers can use to communicate with other drivers.

To know how it works, click here.

2010 Toyota Prius

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Tue, 19 May 2009 02:32:00 +0000

Last week, Toyota has just announced that it already rolled out the newly revamped Prius and said it already had 80,000 advance orders in Japan for the remodeled hybrid.

The Prius, now in its third generation, is the best-selling gas-electric hybrid in the world, racking up a cumulative 1.256 million units sold in more than 40 nations and regions. The new Prius will be sold in 80 nations and regions.

Presenting the Mercedes Stretch Limousine

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Tue, 19 May 2009 02:12:00 +0000

Introducing the Mercedes Stretch Limousine. A Limo designed to offer absolute comfort and luxury to the owner.

Features:

Chrome wheels

Vanity mirrors

AM/FM stereo with single CD/DVD system

Dual 7” flatscreen TV in pillars

Facing seats

How my passion for cars started

noreply@blogger.com (natalieh) — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 06:50:00 +0000

Who says that cars are toys for boys?

Well, they're wrong.

Since I was seven, I already have this great fondness for cars. Even though my Mom kept on buying me Barbie dolls, I just ignore them. I'd rather sneak in my big brother's room and silently admire his collection of match box. I admit, sometimes, I even borrow some from his collection without his consent.

When I reached sixth grade, I started dreaming of having my own car. I always picture it to be like the ones I usually see on tv. A flashy red convertible sports car... I could see myself riding it with my hair being blown by the wind.

I always tell Mom and Dad to buy me a car as a high school graduation gift. My dreams came true when I finally got my diploma. I got what I wanted but quite far from what I dreamed of.
It's not a sports car. But it's good enough though.

A few years after having my first car, I got a job as a writer. Having a car helped me in my work since I really have to travel most of the time. Yet, even if I am so busy with my daily assignments, my fondness for cars is still there. During free time, I go to car shows or read automobile magazines. I also collect different car pictures and place them in my scrapbook.

Actually, I was able to save a good amount of money to buy a new car. I was looking for the latest models when I saw Volvo C70. It's a convertible type of car, with 5-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engines and manual and automatic transmissions. I am still thinking if I should get it...

I learned that Volvo C70 model is quite heavy for its size but it is also justifiable since it contains so many safety features. I heard that there's quite a problem with the nav screen and Dynaudio stereo. Also, I've read in some reviews that the trunk space is just so little. I want to make sure that if I'm going to get it, it's worth every penny. I actually haven't checked on its maintenance... Well, I'm hoping that somebody out there could help me out.