Dynamic Cars

Plug-In Hybrids: Electric Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 19:10:00 +0000

2011 Chevrolet Volt Production Show CarEnlarge PhotoElectric cars like the 2011 Chevrolet Volt are only two years away, and you're wondering: Is electricity REALLY better for the environment than gasoline? No tailpipe emissions, sure, but what about those belching smokestacks? The Sheryl Crow-loving, TP-reducing, earth-friendly editors over at GreenCarReports dug up a study that says, it depends on where you live. Find out more over at High Gear Media's place for everything environmentally and automotive.

Ferrari Reveals 599X Concept !!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 19:01:00 +0000

Based on the 599 GTB Fiorano, Ferrari's 599X concept draws on new technology to become an extreme track star. Just like Aston Martin's One-77, this Ferrari went on a diet to reduce engine weight as well as the weight of other components.The engine uses carbon fiber pieces in the intake system and pieces like a lighter crankshaft to reduce the volume of material used for engine.

"High Performance Dynamic Concept" is a newly-designed electronics suite meant to wring max performance from the 599X concept's chassis by "managing the combination of the car's mechanical limits with the potential of its electronic controls." It comes into effect on the track to achieve best possible lap times. Increasing mechanical limits is a new suspension dubbed SCM and custom tires. And F1-style "doughnuts" provide extra brake cooling as well as improving aerodynamics.Extra downforce, engine bay heat vents moved to the front of the car, and underbody fairings covering the front underside fully improve aerodynamics across the board. An "Actiflow" system increases downforce as well as cutting drag by using a novel porous surface for spoilers and the diffuser.

HEMI V-8 A No-Cost Option For Dodge Ram

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 18:57:00 +0000

Even cash-strapped buyers of the new Dodge Ram won't be heard muttering, "I coulda hada V-8." The Dodge boys are slammin' hoods and makin' deals; March is "Dodge truck month" and you can order a variable-valve timed, happily burbling HEMI for no extra cost in the Dodge Ram 1500.The free HEMI is a cherry on top of the awkwardly named Employee Pricing Plus Plus program. Which itself is in addition to cash discounts up to $3,500 on 2009s. In addition to cash discounts of up to $6,000 on 2008s. Still not enough for you? If you qualify, Chrysler will give you zero-percent financing for up to 36 months through its financial arm. If you ever wanted to sport (or support) the Pentastar, this would be the time to do it.Chrysler report that they "ranked second in [February] retail among the Detroit Three," not exactly cause for a party. Their February sales represent a decrease of 44 percent from that month in 2008. Still, Chrysler claims it has the lowest level of inventory of the domestics. Seems kind of like ringside fighter boasting that he's only got one black eye to his competitor's two. Tough times, these.

Nissan Qazana Concept

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:16:00 +0000

Nissan confirms that it will build a produce a car based on this, the Qazana concept, at its Sunderland plant in the UK starting 2010. The Qazana is a tall four-door coupe with rear-opening rear doors in the vein of Toyota's FJ Cruiser, but without that vehicle's gargantuan blind spots or heavy full-frame truck chassis. Nissan says the Qazana "has been conceived to challenge conventional wisdom about what buyers of small five-door cars should expect."
Whoa, is this the return of the AMC Eagle? 2009 is shaping up to be the year of wacky American Motors-style design; that now-defunct company penned some of the ugliest - or most interesting, depending upon your perspective - designs back in the 1970s. From yesterday's Chevrolet Spark with its chopped Gremlin-esque hatch to this concept, a tall off-road coupe that looks both as awkward, angry, and capable as the old AMC Eagle coupe, I'm celebrating automotive design that bans bland and isn't afraid of bizarre.
Of course, concepts always tend to push the envelope and often get severely watered down by the time they make it to production. But Nissan has proven it's not afraid to take styling risks, as evidenced by the way funky Cube with its asymmetrical door arrangement and wackier-than-Scion styling both inside and out.
Hopefully this vehicle will claw its way to the U.S. market, but initial plans are only for Europe.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Review

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:11:00 +0000

The Chevrolet brand may be the basic, bread-and-butter brand on the GM totem pole, but don't tell that to the designers of the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, who packed the crossover with high-end features. If the standard features just aren't cutting it for you, Chevrolet also offers some impressive options for the Traverse Chevrolet.
Reviews read by TheCarConnection.com show that the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse doesn't pull any punches when it comes to standard features. Cars.com reviewers say the standard "On Star system provides such features as turn-by-turn navigation and directions to restaurants, hotels or other points of interest." ConsumerGuide also notes the Chevrolet Traverse comes standard with a "tilt/telescopic steering wheel, cruise control," full power accessories, an "AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, satellite radio," and "automatic headlights." Moving up to the Chevrolet Traverse LT, ConsumerGuide says to expect a "leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls" to join the standard features list, while Motor Trend describes the top-of-the-line Chevrolet Traverse LTZ as "Chevy's modern Kingswood Estate, with...standard leather," among other unique features. Some of the standard amenities exclusively on the Traverse Chevrolet in LTZ trim are "tri-zone automatic climate controls (including rear controls), navigation system w/voice recognition and traffic information, [and] rearview camera," according to ConsumerGuide. Regardless of which trim you opt for on the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse, Edmunds is pleased to report "Bluetooth connectivity is standard."
The features list doesn't end with the basics available on the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse trims, as GM has included a lengthy catalog of options for those with a bit more disposable income. Cars.com says some of the "cool features of the new Traverse" include "a panoramic sunroof" and "in-dash navigation system," along with an available "rear-seat DVD entertainment system" and "leather upholstery." For those living in the Golden State, ConsumerGuide says an available "California Edition" adds an upgraded "Bose sound system, chrome exhaust tip," and "bright alloy wheels," while a "remote engine start" option is available as a stand-alone feature on the Chevrolet Traverse LS and LT.

Conclusion:
Standard Bluetooth and a year of free OnStar service head up a long list of conveniences found on the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.

Worlds Top 10 Fastest Cars (Part-1)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 22:12:00 +0000

Barabus TKR

Aston Martin Vanquish S 200mph+, 0-62mph 4.8 secs

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano 205mph+, 0-62mph 3.7 secs

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren “722 Edition” 209mph, 0-62mph 3.6 secs

Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 211mph, 0-62 3.4 seconds

Worlds Top 10 Fastest Cars (Part-2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 22:03:00 +0000

Pagani Zonda C12 F 214mph, 0-62mph 3.5 secs

Gumpert Apollo 224mph, 0-62mph 3.0 secs

Bristol Fighter T 225mph+, 0-62mph 3.5 secs

Koenigsegg CCX 245mph+, 0-62mph 3.2 secs

Bugatti EB 16.4 Veyron 253mph+, 0-62mph 2.5 secs

Interesting Car Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 08:54:00 +0000

Top fuel dragsters accelerate at up to 5g from standing start. The nitromethane injection produces 6000 BHP.

The fastest time for removing a car engine, and replacing it is 42 seconds for a Ford Escort, on 21 November 1985.

An airbag moves up to 4500 mph within a second when triggered. A force of 200g is generated. They are designed to explode at an impact speed of 19 mph. The bag inflates within 40 milliseconds of a crash.

The Ferrari Formula 1 team is unique in the fact that it produces both chassis and engines for its cars.

Ferrari makes a maximum of 14 cars every day.

There were only 107 models of the Ford GT40 made of which only 7 were road cars.

The Worlds longest traffic hold-up was 110 miles long, between Paris and Lyon on the French Autoroute in 1980. A more recent contender for the title was a 100 mile long traffic Jam, near Hamburg in Germany in 1993.

The first known automobile was built in 1668, it was a two foot long steam powered model constructed by Ferdinand Verbiest, a Belgian Jesuit preist.

Luxembourg has the most crowded roads in Europe with 570 cars per 1,000 people.

The first car race ever seen in the United States was held in Chicago in 1895. The track ran from Chicago to Evanston. The winner was J. Frank Duryea, whose average speed was 71.5 miles per hour.

In 1924 a Ford automobile cost $265.

The first auto insurance policy is purchased in Westfield, MA, in 1897.

How To Save Car Gas

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 08:50:00 +0000

18 Tips for Saving Money on Gasoline

Gas prices are on the rise. Here are some tips to help you conserve gas and save money as we approach summer gas prices.

1. Keep your car tuned up. Cars in poor running condition use more gasoline.
2. Plan trips well to avoid unnecessary driving.
3. When you run your air conditioner you get much worse gas mileage. Use your air conditioner sparingly. If you have a lower setting, use it. Turn it on until the car gets cool, then turn it off and let the fan circulate the cool air. Never run your air conditioner with your windows open!
4. Keep your windows closed when traveling at high speeds. Open windows cause additional drag and lower your gas mileage. At high speeds, an open window can use more gas than many air conditioners (especially if they are on a low setting).
5. Check your tire pressure. Over-inflated tires can actually reduce your fuel efficiency, so don't overfill.
6. If at all possible, change your work start time to avoid gridlock. Stop and go traffic hurts your gas mileage.
7. Take unneeded items out of the car. You don't need to carry snow chains around with you in the summertime. Just make sure to put them back in when winter comes around.
8. Try not to idle your engine for long periods of time. If you are stuck in traffic and you don't think you are going to go anywhere in the next five minutes, you may want to turn your car off.
9. You no longer need to warm your car up for long periods of time, especially new cars. New cars are made to run when cold.
10. Don't travel at fast speeds in low gears unless you need the compression to slow down.
11. Try to drive the speed limit.
12. Try to accelerate slowly when leaving the stop light. It's not a competition with the driver in the lane next to you. The fastest person through the intersection just gets to spend more on gas.
13. No need to buy the highest priced gasoline. Most cars are built to run on regular unleaded. Check you owners manual or consult a mechanic. I have had many tell me that the more expensive gas is a waste of money.
14. Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. There is no need to rev before you turn your vehicle off.
15. If at all possible, try to arrange car pools with co-workers to share the cost of commuting to work.
16. Walk, bike or run to your intended location whenever possible.
17. When the price is sky high, don't fill up. Wait for the price to go down before you fill up your tank. Filling up your tank when the price is peaking lets gas companies know that you are willing to pay ridiculous prices for gasoline.
18. And last, the biggest and most important step towards saving money on gas is always try to purchase vehicles that get good gas mileage. The difference between 20 miles-per-gallon and 40 miles-per-gallon is huge.

Hyundai Elantra -2009-

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 21:19:00 +0000

The Elantra is a compact sedan by Korean automaker Hyundai, aimed at the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Now in its fourth generation, the Elantra received a complete redesign for the 2007 model year.
The new Elantra is wider and taller than its predecessor. Increasing the height 2.2 inches and moving the driver's seating position up 1.8 inches opened up the cabin for more room and flexibility. Two inches of added width deliver more front and rear shoulder room as well.Hyundai's 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine powers Elantra. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs an aluminum cylinder head that features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT). The combination helps give the engine a very broad power spread, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.The ULEV variation is rated at an estimated 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm. SULEV engines are available only with a four-speed automatic transmission, and are rated at an estimated 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 133 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm.The Elantra comes standard with a five-speed manual gearbox.
A four-speed automatic with a new gated console-mounted floor shifter is available as an option and includes an overdrive lock-up torque converter for higher fuel economy at freeway speeds.All Elantra models have six standard airbags, including two front airbags, two front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and two side curtain airbags protecting front- and rear-seat passengers.Elantra's standard front-seat active head restraints help prevent whiplash during rear collisions by automatically reducing the space between a front occupant's head and the head restraint during a rear collision.The Elantra is available in two distinctive trim levels: GLS and SE.Elantra GLSStandard features include: ABS, four-wheel disc brakes, power heated mirrors, power door locks, power windows, remote keyless entry with alarm and trunk release, variable intermittent windshield wipers, multiple storage areas, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, tachometer, tinted windows, two 12V outlets and tilt steering wheel. The "Popular Equipment" package adds air conditioning, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with tweeters and in-glass antenna, windshield shade band, fog lights, cruise control, and dual front illuminated vanity mirrors with sunvisor extensions. A power sunroof is also an available option.Elantra SEThe sport-oriented SE adds all the equipment in the GLS Popular Equipment package plus Electronic Stability Control and Brake Assist, 16-inch alloy wheels, leather shift knob, telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel audio controls and trip computer. The SE "Premium" package adds a power sunroof and heated front seats. The SE "Premium + Leather" package includes everything in the Premium Package plus leather seating surfaces. In addition to the available gray two-tone, the SE is also available in a sporty monotone black interior.

Honda S2000 (2009 Model)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 21:10:00 +0000

Equipped with a high-performance engine, slick-shifting transmission and racing-inspired chassis, Honda's S2000 roadster caters to the enthusiast.
If you don't get this impression from the outside, just plop yourself into the well-bolstered driver's seat and grip the fat small-diameter leather-wrapped steering wheel. All essential vehicle controls are centered around the steering wheel, within a finger's stretch away. You can access most of them without taking your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road.Since its launch in 1999, the S2000 has been best known for its high-revving powerplant, a 2.2-liter four-cylinder with 237 horsepower and a lofty 7,800 rpm redline.This engine has been acclaimed for its high horsepower per liter of displacement (at 107.7 it easily breaks through the remarkable threshold of 100), especially because Honda's engineers accomplished this without the aid of turbocharging or supercharging. The S2000's engine is normally aspirated.While these engine specs are great for high performance on the track, they make the S2000 a bit temperamental to live with on a daily basis, with the stop-and-go traffic of city roads. However, it used to be worse, before 2004, when the engine was smaller and more high-strung (a smaller 2.0-liter with more horses, less torque and still high redline).The S2000's power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. With the engine up front and drive wheels out back, Honda was able to achieve a near 50-50 weight distribution, ideal for handling dynamics.Another feature that greatly helps handling is the vehicle's rigid X-bone monocoque frame.New for 2008, the Club Racer or CR version boasts features that make it highly suitable for, as the name suggests, club racing events. It has a stiffer suspension, quicker steering ratio, larger rear tires, aggressive aerodynamic kit, removable aluminum hard-top and more.To shave off 100 pounds in weight and thus further enhance performance, air conditioning and a stereo are options on the CR, and the spare tire has been replaced by a tire-repair kit.

2009 FIA Formula One World Championship Race Calender

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 09:23:00 +0000

FORMULA 1 ING AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX (Melbourne) 27 - 29 Mar 02 2009

FORMULA 1 PETRONAS MALAYSIAN GRAND PRIX (Kuala Lumpur) 03 - 05 Apr 03 2009

FORMULA 1 CHINESE GRAND PRIX (Shanghai) 17 - 19 Apr 04 2009

FORMULA 1 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX (Sakhir) 24 - 26 Apr 05

FORMULA 1 GRAN PREMIO DE ESPANA TELEFONICA 2009 (Catalunya) 08 - 10 May 06

FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2009 (Monte Carlo) 21 - 24 May 07 2009

FORMULA 1 ING TURKISH GRAND PRIX (Istanbul) 05 - 07 Jun 08 2009

FORMULA 1 SANTANDER BRITISH GRAND PRIX (Silverstone) 19 - 21 Jun 09

FORMULA 1 GROSSER PREIS SANTANDER VON DEUTSCHLAND 2009 (Nürburgring) 10 - 12 Jul 10

FORMULA 1 ING MAGYAR NAGYDIJ 2009 (Budapest) 24 - 26 Jul 11 2009

FORMULA 1 TELEFONICA GRAND PRIX OF EUROPE (Valencia) 21 - 23 Aug 12 2009

FORMULA 1 ING BELGIAN GRAND PRIX (Spa-Francorchamps) 28 - 30 Aug 13

FORMULA 1 GRAN PREMIO SANTANDER D'ITALIA 2009 (Monza) 11 - 13 Sep 14 2009

FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX (Singapore) 25 - 27 Sep 15 2009

FORMULA 1 FUJI TELEVISION JAPANESE GRAND PRIX (Suzuka) 02 - 04 Oct 16

FORMULA 1 GRANDE PREMIO DO BRASIL 2009 (Sao Paulo) 16 - 18 Oct 17 2009

FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX (Yas Marina Circuit) 30 Oct - 01 Nov

Ford Edge (2009 Car)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 09:10:00 +0000

Now in its second model year of production, the Mazda 6-based Ford Edge is one of three replacements in Ford's line-up for its defunct minivan. The five-passenger crossover is built in Ford's Oakville Assembly Complex in Canada

Power comes from Ford's venerable, award-winning and powerful 265hp 3.5L V6, mated to a six-speed automatic that was developed specifically for FWD vehicles in conjunction with General Motors. There are three trim levels, just like in 2007, with the only change for 2008 seeing the top-of-the-range SEL Plus renamed to Limited.All wheel drive is optional across the range, with the FWD models getting EPA numbers of 16mpg city / 24mpg highway. AWD models fare slightly worse, at 15 / 22, respectively.Some of the standard features on the Edge SE are all the power goodies, an advanced ABS system, A/C, 17-inch aluminum wheels, four 12V power points, AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Six airbags are integrated into all Edge trims, and have helped the CUV earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) Top Safety Pick designation for 2007.The SEL throws in chrome exhaust tips, fog lamps, a six-CD, MP3-capable sound system with four speakers, automatic headlamps with wiper activation, a Message center with trip computer and compass, leather-wrapped steering wheel with speed and audio controls, aluminum instrument panel finish, unique cloth seats with six-way power driver manual driver lumbar and driver / passenger recline and a Reverse Sensing System.

The Limited adds an Audiophile sound system with nine speakers and six-disc CD / MP3; Dual electronic climate control; Fold-flat six-way power passenger seat; Unique brushed aluminum center stack; EasyFold™ second-row seats; Heated and memory seats and exterior mirrors; Leather-trimmed seats; and a Chrome beltline.Stand-alone options include AWD, Panoramic Vista Roof, a choice of two 18-inch wheels and 20-inch chrome clad wheels. Newly optional for 2008 are the power liftgate, Ford's Sync hands-free communications and entertainment system and a voice-activated navigation system. There is also a Class II Trailer tow / prep package that includes beefier cooling and electrical systems along with the hitch itself. Finally, an interior appearance package gets you red-leather seat inserts and contrasting red stitching on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob.

Nissan Rogue Car (2009)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 09:02:00 +0000

Based on the Nissan Sentra, the Rogue represents Nissan's first entrant into the compact SUV market. It's about five inches shorter than the Murano, another Nissan midsize crossover.
Power for the Rogue comes from Nissan's familiar 2.5L four-cylinder -- rated at 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission available in the Rogue is a CVT.The Rogue is available in two trim levels: the S and SL. The base model is available in front or all-wheel drive and comes with 16 inch wheels and power windows, locks and mirrors. The SL model adds a bit of sport to the Rouge range and boasts 17 inch wheels, body-colored mirrors, a stainless steel exhaust-tip and optional steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The Rogue's compact size also helps it achieve EPA ratings of 22/27 mpg city/highway for front-wheel drive models and 21/26 for all-wheel drive models.Inside, the dashboard is simple and foldable rear and passenger seats provide extra storage space. Optional features include Bluetooth phone capability, heated seats and side mirrors, and a hidden cargo organizer. The electronic stability system is standard, as are antilock brakes with brake assist and side-impact airbags. Expect the Rogue to arrive at dealers in the fall.

BMW M3 Convertible (2009 Car)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 08:56:00 +0000

The high-performance drop-top follows in the footsteps of the new M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan. Like its solid-roof counterparts, the Convertible is powered by a 4.0 liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The drop-top's main competitors are the Audi RS4 Convertible and the Mercedes CLK 63 AMG.BMW is also using the convertible to debut its seven-speed M DCT dual-clutch transmission. The seven-speed system promises shifting as smooth as a conventional automatic and faster than a manual gearbox or SMG transmission. Of course, customers can still opt for a regular six-speed manual.Apart from the body structure, only the doors, the retractable hardtop, the luggage compartment lid, the windows and the rear lights come from the standard open-air version of the BMW 3-Series. The range of brand-new body components, therefore, is virtually the same as in the M3 Coupe. The rear axle V-bars already featured on the Coupe and Sedan to provide reinforcement have been extended all the way to the side-sills. This configuration enhances chassis stiffness around the rear axle -- critical for a convertible performance car.Like the other M3 models, the Convertible has high-performance brakes to keep the car's massive power in check. The rotors measure 14.2 inches up front and 13.8 inches at the rear.As an option, the new BMW M3 Convertible may be equipped with EDC Electronic Damper Control. Adjusting damper forces electrohydraulically, EDC optimises both the car's vertical vibration behaviour as well as its yaw and roll motion in bends and its dynamic axle load distribution when applying the brakes and when accelerating. The new BMW M3 Convertible is available with a choice of four special M metallic paintwork colors: Melbourne Red metallic, Jerez Black, Interlagos Blue, and the M5/M6-sourced Silverstone.

General Motors Reconsiders going Bankrupt

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:25:00 +0000

Remember when the execs over at General Motors were saying that bankruptcy was not an option? They said that there was no way that the company would choose that alternative -- nada, no way, forget about it.
Well, things have steadily become worst for the Detroit auto giant. Now there are some whispers coming from the towers of GM that, yes, bankruptcy is a viable alternative. It appears that it may not have any other choice if the feds don’t give it more money. The Treasury Department has given GM $9.4 billion. And it estimates that the company needs another $5 billion to survive through the first quarter of this year. Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reports that GM is giving the government two alternatives -- give up billions of more dollars in loans or put the company into what is called debtor-in-possession bankruptcy that will call for the government to give the company billions of dollars financing because that money wouldn’t be available from anywhere else. That could cost the government more than if it just loaned the money without the bankruptcy option. The Journal is also reporting that GM could file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, combine all of its domestic and international assets into a new company and then sell off or liquidate remaining assets in bankruptcy proceedings. This would also allow the company to re-structure agreements with parts suppliers and the union as well as other employees to come up with something that is more favorable for the new company. Our take? We guess it all depends on the business plan GM gives to Congress when it goes up to Capitol Hill to plead for more loan money. Is it bye-bye General Motors as we now know it?

Fuel Cell Cars for Consumers to be Sold in 2050. At the Earliest

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:15:00 +0000

During our quest to find alternatives to gasoline we have heard an awful lot about hydrogen powered vehicles. Many say that it will be such technology that will ultimately drive us into the promise land away from dependence on foreign oil and help assure a cleaner environment. Thing is, not many of us have seen any hydrogen cars driving along the highways and byways of the U.S. Where are they?
Oh, they are there. But they are mostly there as concept or tests. For example, there is the Honda FCX Clarity which was introduced in 2008. The car is powered by fuel cells and has a range of 270 miles on a full tank of hydrogen. Its performance ain’t bad either. For example, it goes 0 to 60 in 9.2 seconds. But there aren’t many out there because it is tricky and expensive to make. The car is assembled by hand and Honda has been able to make only 200 of them during the last three years. People say that mass production can’t start until 2018. Then there is the chicken and the egg situation. There is no infrastructure for the distribution of hydrogen. So what comes first, the distribution or the car? Obviously, in this case the distribution is essential for the success of the car. And there’s the rub. Only the states or the federal government can build the infrastructure. And so far it is not there. Many say that we won’t see hydrogen vehicles in any significant numbers until 2050. That’s probably beyond our lifetimes and probably many of yours.

How E85, Ethanol reduce Oil Dependency

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:09:00 +0000

A study by the U.S. Sandia National Laboratories and General Motors advocating the production of 90 billion gallons of biofuel a year by 2030 shows that amount is sufficient to replace more than 60 billion of the estimated 180 billion gallons of gasoline that would be expected to be used annually by the year 2030.
The study assumes that 75 billion gallons would be ethanol made from non-food cellulosic feedstock and 15 billion gallons would be ethanol produced from corn. The study used a new tool known as Biofuels Deployment Model (BDM) to determine that 21 billion gallons of cellulosic ethanol could be produced a year by 2022 without losing current crops. The study examined the costs of producing, harvesting, storing and transporting sources of ethanol to newly constructed bio-refineries and it also considered four sources of biofuel production -- agricultural residue, which includes corn stover and wheat straw; forest residue; energy crops such as switchgrass; and short rotation woody crops, including willow and other trees. Our take? We would assume that this study helps prove that ethanol can be produced in sufficient amounts by using sustainable non-food sources. This should settle the controversy that ethanol production should be curbed due to its use of foodstock in its manufacturing. Opponents of ethanol have been pointing to the rising price of food due to the use of foodstock as a reason for its opposition of ethanol.

Adjust Gas Prices to Encourage Alternative Fuels

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 08:06:00 +0000

Here’s a question for the members of Congress and the Obama Administration. How do you encourage the creation of businesses and jobs that produce biofuels as an alternative to gasoline without causing a hardship for drivers who may have to spend more money on filling up the tanks of their cars?
Last summer the price of gasoline was around $4 a gallon. People started to drive less and those in the market for new cars turned more toward smaller, fuel efficient models. Those who advocate fuel conservation point to this as proof that if the price of gasoline was permanently high, then more and more people would be turning to fuel efficient cars and would demand more use of alternative fuels. And this would generate the growth of more and more companies that offer biofuels. Since the fall of gasoline prices, the biofuel industry has been in the tank. Companies are going bankrupt and construction of plants to produce biofuels have been suspended or outright canceled. So how do you encourage the growth of this future vital industry? Many experts say that we should let the free market work its course... with a little bit of help. Some call for a three point plan that would ultimately set up a self-adjusting price floor for gasoline. Here is what they advocate:• Initially, set the price floor of gasoline at $2.50 a gallon. It is said that about 46 percent of fuel sold in the U.S. is a 10 percent blend of ethanol and gasoline and it is said that the cost of this mixture would be a little less than the $2.50 per gallon price floor. • At the end of each day, the average price of pure gasoline should be audited and if it is more than one dollar over the price floor, then the price floor would automatically jump by 25 cents. • Don’t lower the price floor for a period of 10 years. This could provide enough demand for ethanol blended gasoline which will in turn help stimulate the growth of the biofuel industry.

Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG 40th Anniversary Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:58:00 +0000

If there was a way to top the CL65, Mercedes-Benz would find a way to do it. But if it wasn't for the German automaker's in-house performance division, AMG, there wouldn't be a CL65 in the first place.
In honor of AMG, an acronym for the two founders' last names and the town where the tuner was created (Aufrecht Melcher Großaspach), the CL65 40th Anniversary Edition celebrates the 1967 birth of one of the most famous three letter combinations in the automotive world. To celebrate the achievement, the now-Mercedes-owned AMG will release a limited-edition model painted in a special Alubeam paint, heretofore used only in show cars. The Alubeam paint designed to give the car a liquid metal gleam that would not otherwise be possible with standard paint. Inside, the CL65 gets two-tone Nappa leather trim and a 'one out of 40' badge. Standard features include ventilated seats, Night View Assist, adaptive cruise control, 14-way seat adjustment, nine airbags, an active and driver-adjustable suspension and Mercedes' latest COMAND audio and navigation system.

Top 10 Best Car Companies !!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 14:05:00 +0000

Car Companies ..!!

1) Ferrari

2) Ford

3) BMW

4) Mercedes

5) Chevrolet

6) Volkswagen

7) Porsche

8) Rolls-Royce

9) Land Rover

10) Renault

NOTE: Vote Now for Best Car Company in the World ..!! (Left Side of Page)

History of Car Logos !! (2)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Rei Yoshimara, a world-renowned corporate image-creator, designed the Mazda logo. The 'V' represents wings outstretched.The Mitsubishi logo is an integration of two family logos, and originally represented three water chestnuts. It's derived from the three-layer chestnut family crest of Yataro Iwasaki, founder of Tsukumo Shokai, and the three-leaved oak family crest of the Yamanouchi family, from the Tosa Clan. As for the name, it literally means 'three water chestnuts' - Mitsu means three, and Hishi is the word for water chestnut (when there's an 'h' in the middle of a Japanese word, it's often pronounced as a 'b').
Originally the Swallow Sidecar Company, Jaguar gained its new name in 1945, though why this particular animal was chosen is uncertain (though it makes a much better hood ornament than a swallow...). It's thought the leaping jaguar is meant to represent the speed, power, and quickness of the cars.
The three pointed star of Mercedes' logo represents their domination of land, sea, and air. First used on a Daimler in 1909, a laurel wreath was added in 1926 to signify the union with Benz, and was later simplified to the current logo design in 1937.

The Toyota logo is comprised of three ellipses, representing the heart of the customer, the heart of the product, and the ever expanding technological advancements and opportunities that lie ahead. Another interpretation is that it represents the three interlocking aspects of the culture of the company - freedom, team spirit, and progress. Also, in Japanese 'Toyo' means an abundance of, and 'ta' is rice (though the name Toyota was chosen as it was the founder's name, not for its literal meaning). In some Asian cultures, those blessed with an abundance of rice are believe to be blessed with great wealth.

History of Car Logos !! (1)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 13:47:00 +0000

The four rings in the Audi logo represent the four companies of the Auto-Union consortium of 1932 - DKW, Horch, Wanderer, and Audi. The Audi name (latin for "Hear!") disappeared after WWII, but was revived in1965.

People have mistakenly believed that the BMW logo is a rounded, stylized representation of a spinning propeller blade (the company build military airplane enginges originally). However, it actually predates airplane engine production by more than ten years. The emblem evolved from the Rapp Moternwerke company logo (which later grew into BMW), with colors from the flag of Bavaria incorporated Popular legend has it that the Chevrolet logo was inspired by wallpaper in a French hotel where William C. Durant was staying (the legend says he saw the pattern marching off into infinity as a design on the wallpaper and tore a piece of it off to keep to show to friends and later turn into the company logo). However, his wife says that the bowtie emblem was first seen by her husband in a Virginia newspaper on a vacation around 1912, upon which he told her that the thought it'd be a very good emblem for the Chevrolet (per Chevrolet Pro Management Magazine, October 1986).

The Dodge Ram logo first appeared as a hood ornament in the 1930s, used on both trucks and cars. The Ram was chosen for the image it portrays - sure-footed, King of the Trail.

Henry Ford's right-hand-man, Harold Wills, printed business cars to earn money as a teen, and when Mr. Ford needed a logo, Wills pulled out his old printing set and used a font that he had used for his own cards. The oval was added in 1912, and blue was added for the Model A in 1927

The prancing horse featured on the Ferrari logo was the emblem of Italian WWI flying ace Fancesco Baracca, whose parents persuaded Enzo Ferrari to use the symbol of their late son for his Alfa Romeo race cars. When Ferrari later started his own car company, he continued use of this logo. Note that the logo shown here is technically the logo of the racing team, Scuderia Ferrari, though you will see it appear on the front fenders of many modern road-going Ferraris. The official company logo is the rectangular version encompasing the same prancing horse.

Mitsubishi Lancer (2009)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 21:54:00 +0000

Mitsubishi's Lancer sedan received a complete redesign for 2008. The car is based on a new global platform that also forms the foundation of the new Mitsubishi Outlander. It has a longer wheelbase and wider track, but slightly shorter overall length than the previous model. It weighs 3,109 lbs.
The new model's more aggressive exterior takes a great deal of inspiration from the popular Concept X show car.
All Lancer models are powered by an all-new 2.0-liter 152 hp aluminum DOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder engine (143 hp PZEV in California) teamed to a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT.

The 2008 Lancer starts at $13,990 for the value-minded DE model. The well-equipped Lancer ES will start at $15,990, and the sporty GTS starts at $17,490.
The new Lancer is the first Mitsubishi in North America to offer an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). It is a $900 option on the DE and ES models. On the GTS, the system also features a Sportronic six-step mode with paddle shifters, adding a total of $1,000 to the price tag.

Standard features include power windows and side view mirrors, an anti-theft engine immobilizer, auto-off headlamps with daytime running lights, and an AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 playback capability and four speakers. Air conditioning, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and power door locks are optional on the DE.

The ES has more features, including 16-inch alloy wheels, color-keyed door handles and mirrors, and a chrome grille surround. Other standard equipment includes: air conditioning, split folding rear seats, center console box with armrest, map lamps, floor mats, power locks, and an anti-theft alarm system.

Lastly, the sporty GTS features 18-inch alloy wheels, front and side air dams, fog lights, a rear spoiler, and a chrome tailpipe tip. The GTS also includes sport-tuned suspension, 215/45R18 tires, plus the same disc brakes as the larger, heavier Outlander SUV. Shift paddles, automatic climate control, sport bucket seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, and a 6-speaker audio system come standard.

A 650-watt audio system, Sirius satellite radio, and a navigation system are optional on all models.

Standard safety features dual front airbags, a driver's side knee airbag, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, and a tire pressure monitor.

Porsche Panamera (2009): the first interior photos

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 20:29:00 +0000

Porsche today issues the first photographs inside the new Panamera luxury sports saloon. The Panamera will be shown at this spring's 2009 Shanghai motor show and this is the first - official - glimpse inside the new limo from Stuttgart.
It's quite a different milieu from the cosy, focused cabins of 911s and Boxsters to which Porschephiles have become accustomed. And the scattergun, button-strewn centre console is a reality, as revealed in our scoop photos last year. Some commentators back then questioned the veracity of those shots, but today's official photos confirm the busy new look inside. We counted 84 switches when we sat in the Panamera.
Porsche Panamera: the front cabin

The cockpit is dominated by a long, dividing console that splits the cabin into four quarters. Porsche engineering chief Wolfgang Durheimer told CAR that Porsche was vehemently opposed to multi-controllers such as iDrive and MMI – claiming that drivers preferred to press a simple button. Many at CAR agree with his sentiment, although the price you pay is a larger collection of buttons than your grandmother's sewing kit.
Porsche hasn't totally forgotten its sports car roots, however. You'll find a familiar-looking central rev counter, that distinctive family typeface and we've previously called 'Germanic logic meets slightly scatty ergonomics.' There are some natty new executive style materials, however, and we found it as inviting as its Teutonic opposition's cabins.
And in the back of the Panamera?
This artfully cropped photo gives a small indication of the space available in the rear. Happily, we've sat in the Panamera and can report that it boasts a very comfy pair of rear individual pews. You won't find quite as much space as in a Merc S-class or Audi A8, but it's very comfy nonetheless. And the Panamera isn't styled like a brick, so a slightly bigger stoop is the price you pay for its sporting intent.

All four seats recline and can be chilled and heated. Being a five-door hatch, rather than a four-door, the Panamera also boasts a remarkable degree of practicality. That rear pair of seats folds flat, turning this into what Porsche styling director Michael Mauer calls a 'space coupe'. It has a 450-litre boot, but tip those seats forward and the hatch beats all its rivals for stowage.
Expect the Panamera in showrooms this autumn.