Auto Parts Resources

Black Boxes for Automobiles

2008-06-10T23:15:00.000-07:00

The Black box is the technical term for a device with an input and output attributes. According to some sources, an object can be technically called a black box though it’s not literally black; a transistor; a cassette or any recording device may be called a black box.

Black box is a device or object which records audible data. In aircraft technology, it records all communications made in the cockpit of an aircraft while in flight. This had been very popular and helpful in reporting and detecting the causes of aircraft crashes.

Today, this technology is being thought of to be installed on automobiles. Adolfo V. Bague, an Argentine inventor has won a patent for a data recorder designed to be installed in cars to capture information about traffic accidents. He claims that his invention is not merely a modification of the black boxes which are used in aircrafts. He explained that an aircraft black box is large, heavy and very power consuming which proves to be impractical for cars. Despite, it uses very expensive technology which can disappoint car buyers. Bague claims, that he originally designed a recording device that are ideal for cars.

The invention includes multiple sensors, a microphone and cameras. A microprocessor and a data storage memory are housed in a tamperproof, waterproof and fire resistant box that can be removed from the car after an accident. The information that can be recorded during the accident are ''braking pressure, brake temperature, brake line hydraulic pressure, average speed, acceleration or deceleration in one or more dimensions, rate of turning, steering angle, compass direction of travel, impact, tire pressure, cruise control status, windshield wiper status, fog light status, defroster status, and geographical positioning information,'' Mr. Bague wrote in his patent.

MX-5: The Best of Its Class

2008-05-23T20:50:00.000-07:00

The Mazda MX-5, still popularly known as the Miata is a sleek and well-engineered convertible. It is a 2-door, 2-passenger convertible sports car, available in 8 trims, ranging from the SV to the Grand Touring Power Retractable Hardtop. It is released as a Special Edition MX-5 with an exclusive Saddle Brown folding top. According to the usnews.rankingsandreviews.com, this car ranks first out of ten Affordable Sports Cars.

“The SV is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 166-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The Grand Touring Power Retractable Hardtop is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 166-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.” It is available with a choice of an automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a five-speed manual transmission.

Edmunds.com says that the new exterior as "a stronger face, more rakish lines and accentuated fender contours." Head and tail lamps are mounted inboard for better compactness. Great designs evolve over time but the door mirrors continue the elliptical theme used in the original MX-5 Miata.

Passenger-side airbags and standard drivers–side airbags provides safety without sacrificing the beauty of the interior. It features an ear-blasting entertainment system which is made up of a BOSE 7-speaker AM/FM/6-CD. Overall, interior quality and appearance are way better than any past MX-5 Miata. The hardtop opens or closes in 12 seconds, and consumes no luggage space.

Reviewers see its soft top and new power-folding hardtop as the best in their class.

A Hybrid for Nissan

2008-05-16T01:35:00.000-07:00

The Altima Hybrid Electric is Nissan's first hybrid car. It is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan. Nissan have had an agreement with Toyota in using some of its hybrid technology in the new Altima for the 2007 model year.

It is a 158-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and 40-horsepower electric assist motor. Torque-wise it’s a stump-puller, with 162 pound-feet from the gas engine and 199 from the electric motor. Its mileage reaches up to 35 miles a gallon in the city and 33 on the open road. This hybrid has a 20-gallon tank, so it must reach an approximate distance of 700 miles.

They say that it is the first hybrid that drives like Prius, this Altima hybrid is also a full hybrid, so it can be powered purely by electricity at low speeds.

Here are some features included in the new Altima; 16-inch alloy wheels, Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, power windows/door locks, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system with auxiliary audio input jack, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS) and dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered A/C.

The 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid ranks 20 out of 25 Affordable Midsize Cars. In the US, they are selling this only on states with strict clean-air regulations where the automaker needs near-zero-emissions cars, because they think they will have higher buyer interest. These are namely; California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont.

The GT-R Concept

2008-05-14T01:51:00.000-07:00

The Nissan GT-R is a coupe created by Nissan, and released in Japan on December 6, 2007. Nissan showed the GT-R Concept as the prospective successor to the R34. It is expected to be released internationally by early June of 2008.

“It is powered by an all-new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 "VR38" engine, featuring plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system. The Nissan GT-R's new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm.” It can reach the top speed of 193 mph.

It has got a super lightweight forged aluminum wheels with knurled bead area, which was designed to maximize tire adhesion to the wheel under extreme condition. Its body construction consist of super silver special metallic paint, with an 8-stage process including three clear coats and hand polishing to achieve a lustrous, liquid effect.

This car also features a long list of safety and environmental features, including, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stop lamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, "super wide beam" headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade wipers.

For me, it may not the best looking car in the world but who cares as long as it is incredibly fast. And in any sense, I'll reserve judgment for its looks until I see one in person. This thing is surely going to be a beast on the road. I'm sure it'll be a blast to drive. Pricing for the sports car starts at $69,850 - $71,900 for the premium edition.

BMW M1 Homage

2008-05-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

BMW introduced the world to their M1 Homage concept at the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance last April 2008. The concept vehicle uses a mid-engine layout and borrows its styling from both the original M1 and the Turbo show car. The reason the car was introduced is to mark the 30th anniversary of the BMW M1, which to this day is still one of the most stunning sports cars ever created. It's been thirty years since the first BMW M1 supercar rolled out of the company’s facility in Munich, Germany.

The styling is directly influenced not only by the original M1 but also from the M1’s inspiration which is the BMW Turbo Concept. In the original M1, the body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, an Italian automobile designer. Taking inspiration from the 1972 BMW Turbo, the M1 is remembered as a very smooth and well polished supercar in the true BMW tradition.

I've always been a fan of the old M1's looks. I thought they were outdated already but with this new vehicle, it looks like the company has just bred a new M1.

Cool features from the M1 Homage include "invisible headlamps" and a squat version of the trademark BMW grille. The new wave “cheese grater” wheels and the double roundels at the rear corners were also very noticeable and they added sophistication to the car.

I’m less convinced though that this car would be making its way to the for real as a production vehicle after seeing it at the show. I hope that they would actually produce it. I surely would want to see one at a local BMW dealer’s.

Toyota Unveils Green Sporty Car

2008-02-25T18:43:00.000-08:00

Japanese auto making juggernaut Toyota has been the face of the green revolution in the automotive industry. Although the automaker is not the first to offer a hybrid to consumers especially in the United States, its Prius is what caught the attention of many. But Toyota is not just about green cars.

Recently, the automaker launched a sports car. When you hear the word sports car, you might think that it is one of those fast machines that guzzle gas as it rack up the miles. But this one has a Toyota badge on it so we can safely assume that this is a green car.

The automaker announced that the Future Toyota Hybrid Sports or FT-HS concept will give consumers the best of two worlds. If you want a fast car, this is the one for you. And if you want a car which produces very little emission then, this is for you too.

Doug Soden, manager of product development at Toyota said: "There is a stronger need for hybrid vehicles to be on the market, or much more fuel efficient vehicles. Whichever way you look at it, whether it is a petrol-electric or hydrogen-electric, there needs to be that hybrid interface."

I just hope that this is not a hybrid just for the sake of it being a hybrid. I mean, the FT-HS should be a hybrid not because it's what people with money want. It should be a hybrid because there is a need for vehicles to reduce their greenhouse gas emission. And if the second case is true for this sports car, then Toyota should have designed it to be fast and really "green". Also, it should be as an Acura valve cover gasket.

Volvo Launches Its 15 Millionth Car

2008-02-20T18:10:00.000-08:00

Indeed, life in the car industry (as in all other fields of business) is such an unpredictable game. Nothing manifests it best than Ford’s luxury brand Volvo which has produced its 15 millionth car -- an all-new convertible Volvo C70, as reported by the AutoChannel yesterday.

According to Wikipedia, Volvo founder Asaar Gabrielsson, upon losing his wife in a car accident, promised to uphold the production of safe cars. On April 14, 1927, the first Volvo car, called Volvo ÖV 4, was introduced in the Swedish market. Continuing its production had been a struggle for Volvo particularly during World War II. It took the company 23 years before it produced its first 100,000 cars. At present, that is equivalent to only three months of production. See the difference?

Autounleashed.com reported that the new convertible Volvo C70, like the Volvo ÖV 4 that signifies “Open Car” with four cylinders, is also an open car -- a sports car, noted for its functionality and spaciousness. Also, it boasts of its two cars-in-one capacity, which is its ability to transform from coupe to convertible at the touch of a button via its three-piece retractable top. Hmm, it must be equipped with high-quality performance pulleys, musn't it?

However, reviews from edmunds.com said that although the new Volvo C70 has qualities that are proven to be user-friendly with its comfortable interior and safety features, it also comes with a middling acceleration and braking performance as well as an average steering feedback. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine which is capable of producing 227 horsepower. Other important characteristics of the convertible Volvo C70 include a leather steering wheel and gearshift knob plus revamped air vents.

The convertible Volvo C70, produced in Volvo’s factory at Uddevalla, Sweden, was launched yesterday as Volvo celebrated its 8oth anniversary -- marking another milestone in Volvo history.

New York International Auto Show Features First-Ever Virtual Garage

2008-02-15T16:58:00.000-08:00

“I’m a new lover of cars. I found my favorite car (the Shadow Grey Aston Martin Vanquish) was discontinued and I think my heart died a little. So I’ve begun to dedicate myself to finding my own car, one that I could tune to my personality and style and ride it into the sunset. Can you help me?”

Those were words posted by 19-year-old car enthusiast Kitsune of New Jersey at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) Virtual Garage, accessible at autoshowny.com.

For the first time in auto show history, the NYIAS now features a Virtual Garage, an online publication of car enthusiasts’ personal garages to promote communication and friendship among present and future generation of car lovers. How? It’s simple. By logging in to the NYIAS’ Virtual Garage section, members get the chance to upload photos and videos of their cars, provide some personal information, become a “fan” of other members and discover other members’ garages while non-members can register to avail of the same privileges. Like maybe you have an Acura car that’s so much dear to you. So you go and show the world why. It may be because of the outstanding quality of its MDX bug shield. Surely, you’ll learn more from others who have mutual sentiments as yours.

At edmunds.com, Show Director Candida Romanelli said that the virtual garage is a great opportunity for all car enthusiasts around the world to keep in touch with each other and share personal stories about their cars.

Online community group was initiated by facebook.com and myspace.com. The NYIAS is the first auto show to adopt the same practical and technological system.

According to AutoChannel, this year’s NYIAS will unveil more or less 1,000 collections of innovative and top-of the-line vehicles including impressive concept cars. The NYIAS, North America’s oldest auto show, will be held at the Javits Center next month starting from March 21 to 30.

Fight The Cold

2008-02-11T18:02:00.000-08:00

With this cold weather we are having, it is not surprising that there have been a lot of vehicles breaking down on the road. Thus, it is always important to check your car before driving out there. There are simple things you can do and some of them do not even include using auto parts such as thermostats.

AAA Chicago published their tips thanks to The Auto Channel. Since everyone driving around in this weather should be armed with information, here are those tips:

Check your battery strength. Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other factor. At 0 degrees, a good battery has 35 percent less starting power.
Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door and the frame.
Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.
To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto supply stores. If your lock freezes, heat your key with a pocket lighter but remember to wear gloves or hold the key with pliers. Or, fill a plastic jug with hot water. Hold it against the door panel or lock area. Do not throw hot water on the car. It may freeze and run the risk of cracking glass.
If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. If you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the car, such as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee can heater", flashlight and reflective triangle.

I hope that these tips will help you keep safe this season.

Who’s To Define 2008 Global Auto Sales?

2008-02-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

“How quickly does it improve and where does it go to, that remains to be seen.”

I agree with the words of General Motors’ North American Operations Head Troy Clarke. Indeed, who’s to define the fate of the auto industry for us?

Despite many auto analysts’ predictions that this year would mark the worst US sales in a decade, expecting a 17 million drop as compared to that of 2005, auto manufacturers remain hopeful.

Auto executives told the Associated Press about the possibility of federal stimulus package and lower interest rates to boost consumer confidence.

“We’re beginning to see, after six quarters of declines, the beginnings of some pent-up demand. You could make a case that the second half of the year could be significantly better,” Clarke said to AP.

Meanwhile, Ford Americas President expressed the same sentiment pointing out the importance of interest rates cut in stimulating sales.

“We do see opportunity in the second half,” he said.

Based from reports in Reuters, auto industry sales for the last six months of 2008 is forecasted to range from 16 million to 16.5 million vehicles. Would that be enough to hood research firm Global Insight’s calculation that vehicle sales will decrease by 15.5 million units this year?

Well, as Clarke puts it succinctly, that remains to be seen.

Best January for MNAO

2008-02-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Mazda North American Operations had a promising start this year with its record-breaking 10.2 sales increase for January 2008 - the first after 14 years.

Mazda had sold about 21, 212 vehicles in 2008’s first 31 days! Whoa! Whatta great start, isn’t it? These cars must have the same quality like Acura cars with great fender flares.

Mazda3, or Mazda Axela, a compact car, led the volume of record sales with 6, 579 units sold. On the other hand, Mazda6 or Mazda Atenza, a midsize car, got the best January sales since its launch last 2002 with 6,333 units sold up 27 percent than last year while the Mazda5 also known as the Mazda Premacy, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that was redesigned for 2008, garnered a 28.4 sales increase with 1,699 units sold. Also, Mazda CX-9, a full-size crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) described as a “modern station wagon” and was recently named North American truck of the Year, declared sales of 1,850 while CX-7, a mid-size crossover SUV, had 2,555 units sold.

Overwhelmed by the public’s demand for Mazda cars, MNAO President and Chief Executive Officer Jim O’Sullivan said, “After closing 2007 as the fastest-growing major car company in the US, we kicked off 2008 signaling our intention for another strong year.”

Mazda North American operation is the largest foreign component of Mazda Motor Corporation. It has two headquarters - one in Irvine, California and another in Flat Rock, Michigan.

According to bloomberg.com, Mazda’s 10 percent gain was the lone increase among Asian brands like Nissan and Hyundai whose combined market share declined by 0.2 to 41.9 percent.

Cars Get More Horses Under The Hood

2008-01-29T22:49:00.000-08:00

Who says the battle of the horsepower is over? You are wrong. Actually, the battle is just getter hotter as automakers give more horses under the hood.

The most remarkable, by far, is RENNTECH’s package for the Mercedes AMG models. Imagine, the car gets 695 hp. Awesome!

In the last few years, the auto industry has witnessed the parade of 500hp sedans. German automakers such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes have inundated the industry with uber fast cars. But, as I’ve said the battle isn’t over.

In a release, RENNTECH, one of the leading tuning firms we have today, announced a new "stage 3" tune for the 2008 65 series AMG models, which makes use of what RENNTECH calls "next-generation ECU software" to get 695hp and 890 lb-ft of torque from the AMG's twin-turbo V12.

"Power will always be important to many customers, especially torque," explained Hartmut Feyhl, RENNTECH's president and ex technical director of AMG North America. "Our cars have always been able to make considerable torque, and have been praised in magazines for their drivability. Still, we are constantly trying to improve our product."

"We now have two in-house engineers that are doing software full-time, and others that work with the software on a part-time or contract basis. We are always looking for improvements. The latest software takes advantage of the increased power of the new engine computers, and offers a number of small improvements that add up to a big 'overall' improvement," Feyhl explained.

Feyhl concluded: "It really is that 'next-generation' sort of product that is much more advanced than what we were capable of offering before. Compared to earlier versions, our new software gives customers more power and better drivability in a way that is more reliable, smoother power curve, and even improves emissions and gas mileage."

With approximately 900 lb-ft of torque who won’t be lured?

One thing is apparent - the performance and power of cars are getting more and more impressive. But automakers should not neglect safety and comfort. The maker of Volvo wheels, for one, should not take its safety milestones for granted.

More horses, more power. So cut the horses reins without compromising other auto aspects.

More than Just Dessert

2008-01-25T22:15:00.000-08:00

They are regarded as one of the keystones in the aquatic food chain being the major food of fish, suppliers of oxygen to the aquatic world, a source of fertilizer and also used as stabilizer in food, cosmetics and paints. Yeah, you got it right! That substance you dissolve in boiling water, mixed with sugar, milk and food color and molded into yummy gelatin dessert is the same material from which the latest biodiesel-fuel was derived. Algae, that is.

Just two days ago, the first algae-derived biodiesel fuel, produced by Solazyme Incorporated, a synthetic biology company that unleashes the power of aquatic microbes in providing clean and cheap solutions for biofuel, industrial chemical, health and wellness markets, has undergone its first road test and had successfully powered a factory-standard automobile. Maybe, one with an Acura Integra steering rack. Under usual driving conditions, the fuel can enable any vehicle to run even long distances. Clean, renewable, environmentally sustainable and scalable. Those are some of the best qualities of soladiesel biodiesel.

Using standard industrial fermentation equipment, Solazyme's soladiesel biodiesel was yielded from manufactured algal oil thus producing a biodegradable and nontoxic biofuel.

"Biodiesel from algae changes the landscape of renewable fuels," Solazyme Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Wolfson said. He added, "The concept of algal biofuel has been discussed for decades, and Solazyme's technology finally provides a scalable solution based on proven industrial processes. This fuel is just the first example of how algal oil will help the environment through new products that offer attractive economics and performance, as well as environmental benefits."

Solazyme has currently signed an agreement with Chevron Technology Ventures, a division of Chevron U.S.A Incorporated, a leading refiner and manufacturer of gasoline.

Harris Dillon, President and Chief Technology Officer of Solazyme, said that by demonstrating soladiesel as a new fuel alternative, the need for a cost-effective and sustainable near-term solution to the country's energy problem is being addressed.

Are You Wedded To Your Cars?

2008-01-23T17:39:00.000-08:00

Picture this: The world stays as it is today but without - cars! Yes, you can have all other whims but cars. Are you gonna survive?

Traveling is just an ordinary thing these days. And without a car, where do you think you’ll be going? Quite obviously, it is nice to travel from one town to another. The views are breathtaking. The moments are priceless. But driving isn’t just for leisure. It’s actually for everyday travel. No wonder cars are deemed indispensable.

If you think you can’t live devoid of any auto pleasure, you’re just being true to yourself. If you think you are wedded to your car, some are addicted to it. Yeah, you are not alone.

A Statistics Canada report said Edmonton leads major Canadian cities in its residents' reliance on cars. And across Canada, auto dependence is escalating.

The report dubbed Dependence on Cars in Urban Neighbourhoods found that 77% of adult Edmontonians made all their trips by car on the day the survey was conducted. It topped the 8 major Canadian cities studied in 2005, the most recent year for which numbers are available, reported Canada.com. Other cities include:

- Calgary, 75%
- Quebec, 74%
- Winnipeg, 72%
- Ottawa-Gatineau, 71%
- Vancouver, 69%
- Toronto, 66%
- Montreal, 65%

StatsCan found the proportion of Canadians who travel everywhere by car surged from 68% in 1992 to 74% in 2005. The report added the proportion of Canadians who made at least a trip by bicycle or on foot appears to have declined. In 2005, 19% of adults walked or biked somewhere on the survey day, a decline from 26% in 1998.

"Human physiology has not changed for 50,000 years, but the way we live has changed dramatically," said Prof. John Spence, a researcher at the University of Alberta. "Our environments are increasingly promoting sedentary living."

And with people wedded to their cars plus the lack of exercise factor, it is predicted that percentage of obese individuals will rise. A person's chances of being obese go up 6% for every hour they spend in a car each day, according to a study by Prof. Lawrence Frank of the University of British Columbia.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Gerry Predy said the concerns are that long commutes to sprawling suburbs produce air pollution that can cause health problems. What's needed are neighbourhoods where you don't have to get into your car to go to the grocery store or the dry cleaner, Predy added.

So every once in a while, try to fight the temptation of hitting the starter of your car, take a brisk walk instead.

Fight The Cold

2008-01-17T17:34:00.000-08:00

Winter is the worst weather for a vehicle. It is hard to get a car started in very cold weather, the snow can affect the vision of the driver, and heavy snow fall can lead to a car being stuck on the road. These are just some problems that you can encounter during this season of frigid weather. To help you keep your car running, AAA Michigan published tips in The Auto Channel

According to them, you can do the following:

Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other factor. At 0 degrees, a battery has 35 percent less starting power than in summer. At minus 20, battery power drops 50 percent. If your battery is more than three years old, have a load test performed by a mechanic.

Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door or window glass and the frame.

Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.

To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto supply stores.

If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. If you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the car, such as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee can heater," flashlight and reflective triangle.

These tips can save you a lot of trouble. Remember that a car cover is not enough to keep your car safe during winter.

Is It End Of The Line For Petrol Cars?

2008-01-14T20:53:00.000-08:00

With the constant increase in gasoline prices and the rising demand for foreign oil, there is a great probability that petrol-powered cars will soon be facing extinction. Matter of fact, General Motors was earlier quoted as saying it believes global oil supply has peaked and a switch to electric cars is inevitable.

At the opening of this year’s North American International Auto Show, GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner said ethanol was an "important interim solution" to the world's demand for oil, until battery technology improved to give electric cars the same driving range as petrol-powered cars.

General Motors is absorbed in developing an electric car dubbed Chevy Volt. The plug-in hybrid is set to arrive in showrooms by 2010. But the arrival could be held in abeyance due to the delays in the development of the car’s battery technology.

Wagoner cited the United States Department of Energy statistics which show the world is consuming approximately 1000 barrels of oil every second of the day, and yet demand for oil may surge by 70% over the next 2 decades. Some experts believe the supply of oil peaked in 2006, according to Sydney Morning Herald.

According to a report, the remaining oil reserves are deeper below the Earth's surface. As such, they are more expensive to to mine and refine. "There is no doubt demand for oil is outpacing supply at a rapid pace, and has been for some time now," Wagoner said. "As a business necessity and an obligation to society we need to develop alternative sources of propulsion."

"So, are electrically driven vehicles the answer for the mid- and long-term? Yes, for sure. But… we need something else to significantly reduce our reliance on petroleum in the interim," he added.

The auto industry is slowly embracing the greener trend. It’s like having the necessary heater core replacement. And the effect will become more apparent in the near future. So far, petrol cars hold dominion over American roads.

Infiniti EX35 Earns Top IIHS Safety Award

2008-01-11T17:19:00.000-08:00

All types of vehicles go along with a dependable safety system to protect drivers and passengers during rear, side and front crashes. Of course, safety comes first and that is closely followed by performance and convenience. That’s the way it should be. Our lives are more important than the driveshaft, fenders or whatsoever. Today, we are in so much delight because of the fact that several car manufacturers are giving lots of efforts in bringing the best safety technologies in premium vehicles. One of the best automobiles at present which best embodies car safety is the all-new 2008 Infiniti EX35!

According to the Auto Channel, the new luxury SUV, Infiniti EX35, received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Pick award for 2008. It’s the first-ever Infiniti to earn this award for everybody’s information. Winners for the Top Safety Pick meet the rate of advanced overall crash protection among the vehicles in their respective divisions. A vehicle is required to earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be outfitted with the electronic stability control.

"Criteria to win are tough because the award is intended to drive continued safety improvements such as top crash test ratings and rapid addition of electronic stability control, which is standard equipment on the EX35. Recognizing vehicles at the head of the class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple test results," says Institute president Adrian Lund.

For past several months, the number of vehicles earning Top Safety Pick has been rapidly escalating. There were 13 cars, minivans, and SUVs which originally made it to the 2007 awards. The numbers of recipients were doubled to 34 at the start of the 2008 model year.

"The EX35 is a leader in its class for state-of-the-art safety," Lund says. "You don't know what kind of crash you're going to be in. That's why it's important to choose a vehicle that will protect you in all kinds of crashes. The Top Safety Pick designation is intended to help people find the safest choices."

The Hyundai Genesis Premium Sports Sedan At The 2008 NAIAS

2008-01-09T16:55:00.000-08:00

The 2008 NAIAS is definitely the hottest phenomenon to start the brand new year. Radiators will totally burst with the presentation of the newest concept cars courtesy of the giant automakers around the globe. And among these renowned groups is Hyundai.

The Genesis Concept was once a grand vision from Hyundai, but now, it’s a dream come true… finally! The luxury sedan’s initial design sketch was superb - almost perfect that is. The unveiling of Hyundai’s masterpiece is one of the most awaited events in the upcoming 2008 North American International Auto Show. Hyundai presents the Genesis premium sports sedan!

According to my source, the newest Genesis rear-wheel-drive sports sedan is scheduled to have its first public appearance on January 13, 2007. This vehicle is equipped with features and capabilities similar to luxury sedans with a $60,000 tag. The Genesis premium sport sedan will be offered at an initial price below $30,000 when it hits dealership this summer.

"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS. Genesis provides a potent combination of performance, luxury, and value. We think it has the opportunity to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments," says John Krafcik, the vice president for product development and strategic planning at Hyundai Motor America.

Special Corvette In Indianapolis

2008-01-03T17:44:00.001-08:00

The 2008 Indianapolis 500 is widely anticipated by race fans not only for the racing but also for the cars. And what more can appease them than two Corvette pace cars? The Auto Channel reported that a pair of Corvettes will be gracing the event. These two cars are identically designed of course but differ in many ways.

One of the cars is designed to showcase Chevrolet's commitment to a greener auto industry while the second car is designed to celebrate thirty years of the Corvette being the pace car in this popular event.

The report reads: "One of the pace cars is a customized Corvette Z06 E85 concept that runs on E85 ethanol fuel, a domestically produced alternative fuel similar to the E100 fuel that powers all of the racecars in the IndyCar Series. It will be driven during the race’s pace lap by two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Emerson Fittipaldi.

"The other official pace car is a black-and-silver commemorative edition that marks the 30th anniversary of the celebrated 1978 pace car – the first Corvette to pace the field at the Indianapolis 500. Chevrolet will produce a total of 500 pace car replicas in both coupe and convertible form, each signed personally by Fittipaldi at the Corvette’s Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant."

Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager had this to say: "Although not a production FlexFuel vehicle, the Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car is a high-performance example of Chevrolet’s gas-friendly to gas-free initiative, demonstrating viable fuel solutions. As an ethanol refiner in his native Brazil, Emerson Fittipaldi is the fitting Chevrolet champion to help support GM’s efforts with E85 and celebrate 30 years of the Corvette pacing the Indianapolis 500."

I would bet that these two Corvettes can outrun any Acura CL washer pump-equipped car.

A Sneak At Detroit’s Big 3 Plans For 2008

2008-01-01T20:54:00.000-08:00

Still tired of the New Year’s celebration? Well, exhaustion shouldn’t keep you adrift for the longest time and lose contact with auto industry’s upcoming offerings. Those are not something that should be missed.

To give you a preview of what’s forthcoming in the industry, here’s a quick rundown:

Ford
Ford Motor Co. has licensed its technology for soy-based flexible seat foam to Deere & Co. and Sears Manufacturing Co., so those companies can develop it for John Deere farming equipment and other applications.

Ford is already using the soy-based seat foam in the 2008 Ford Mustang, F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. It also will be featured in the 2009 Ford Escape.

The Dearborn automaker says the soy-based foam is more environmentally friendly than petroleum-based foams, and soy foam reduces carbon dioxide emissions and takes less energy to produce. "Ford is pioneering renewable solutions and forging strategic partnerships to extend our capabilities and our ability to innovate," Gerhardt Schmidt, vice president of Ford research and advanced engineering, said in a statement.

Coming up: Ford will release its December and annual sales results on Thursday. Ford sales were up slightly in November following a decline for the previous 12 months.

Chrysler
Cerberus Capital Management's CEO Stephen Feinberg was thrust into the spotlight this month when he took the witness stand as part of the private-equity firm's efforts to back out of a $4-billion deal to purchase United Rentals.

News media across the land have struggled -- and failed -- to find a recent picture of Feinberg ever since Cerberus acquired Chrysler. Newspapers have run college pictures of the very private Feinberg.

Coming up: Chrysler's unveilings at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month include the Dodge Ram.

General Motors
The Chevrolet Tahoe gets its most powerful engine yet. Chevrolet will bring out a 6.2L small-block V8 in the Tahoe LTZ in 2008. The 380-horsepower Tahoe will be equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Tahoe LTZ 6.2L is available on two-wheel drive models and adds to a Tahoe lineup that includes a hybrid version. A six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts. The Tahoe LTZ 6.2L has towing capacity of 7,900 pounds.

Coming up: GM CEO Rick Wagoner speaks to the Consumer Electronics Show Jan. 8.

Special thanks to Detroit Free Press for the wonderful revelations.

Cold air intake filter will be breathing a little comfortable this year and in the years to come. Additionally, car occupants will be more comfy in their seats.

1,000 MB C-Class Units Please

2007-12-28T11:01:00.000-08:00

Who could possibly defy the magnificence of Mercedes-Benz cars? I think there’s none. Anyone? The hotness of these rides especially the C-Class models are totally radical. Talk about luxury, sophistication and style - the C-Class is truly as hot as the overnight radiators, that’s why the demand for this vehicle is rapidly increasing.

According to the Auto Channel, after the imported C class was launched in China, Daimler's first-class Mercedes-Benz obtained orders of C-class sedans tallying up to 1,000 units within a month. The MB C-series sedan was introduced in China on November 10, 2007. After that, the feedbacks from latest reports revealed affirmative response from customers.

The all-new, fresh “off the grille” Benz C-series will present C200K and C280 editions and prices will range between 398,000 yuan ($53,467) and 497,000 yuan ($66,767). The well-known car manufacturer also has a plan to locally manufacture the model starting next year in China.

Volvo Recalls 125,000 Trucks

2007-12-27T19:51:00.000-08:00

Every car maker should ensure that every car part and accessory they install on the vehicles they make is built to be quality ones just like the durability of the Acura CL steering rack. However, sometimes because of technical problems, these auto makers failed to check the function of these car parts. This is why there are still faulty car parts in the cars running through streets.

Car makers had to recall these car parts in order to prevent accidents and other fatal incidents.

In recent news, the luxury car line Volvo, a Ford Motor Company subsidiary and also a part of the Premiere Automotive Group, recently reported a recall of 125,000 trucks in the United States. Reuters revealed that these trucks were found to have faulty electrical components which may lead to possible accidents. This is why Volvo had to recall these trucks. The world's number two truck maker said the problem was related to the main circuit-breaker in the lighting system.

Volvo spokesman Tommy Kohle said, "We have had reports of incidents. Exactly what that entails, I don't know, but we have decided it is serious.” He failed to reveal the cost of the total recall however he confirms that the cost of the recall won’t affect the total firm's share price.

It will be expensive to have a recall especially for luxury car brands. I just wish Ford won’t be affected that much by this recall.

Honda Eyes 2008 Gains

2007-12-14T00:44:00.000-08:00

Honda Motor Co. is pleased to announce its growing sales…

Earlier, the Japanese automaker’s American unit reported that its sales increased by 3% or more next year even as the overall market for new vehicles slumps in line with a slowing economy and increased consumer caution, a senior executive said on Thursday.

John Mendel, executive vice president in charge of Honda's American operations, said he expected industry-wide sales to slip to between 15.5 million and 16 million vehicles in the U.S. next year. The event would etch a dive from an industry total near 16.1 million vehicles this year, the lowest tally since 1998.

"It's going to continue to slow," Mendel told Reuters. "I just don't know that we're going to get the big whack that doomsayers would predict."

Analysts and exes in the industry are troubled in recent weeks about the risk that a housing downturn combined with a spike in mortgage defaults could undermine U.S. vehicle sales in 2008.

But Mendel said he expected both the vehicle market and the broader U.S. economy would both start to improve in the second half of next year, "short of some cataclysmic shock that no one has predicted." The automaker eyes sales to increase by 3% to 4.

"I think next year is probably on target for that," he added. “Honda could even benefit if American consumers turn more cautious because its vehicle line-up leads in overall fuel economy and in maintaining resale values, key considerations for shoppers who are looking to economize. It seems to me that if you look back at our history we've tended to prosper more than the rest when times were tough."

"Honda is an interesting place. I have yet to sit in on a business planning session where market share comes up," said Mendel, who joined Honda in 2004 from Mazda Motor Corp. "Market share is an outcome for us. It's not something we drive for."

Honda's sales growth this year has come from gains in its mainstay sedans, the redesigned Accord and the smaller Civic, combined with momentum that has made its CR-V the best-selling SUV in the U.S. market, according to Guardian Unlimited.

Honda’s weak link, by far, is its Acura luxury brand, where U.S. sales have plummeted more than 10% through November.

Mendel said upcoming Acura product launches, including a revamped TL sedan, would show Honda's commitment to making Acura fully competitive with the best luxury offerings. The automaker’s upcoming offering is expected to haul sales as efficient as performance pulleys.

"Starting next fall, you'll start to see a new direction and a new course in terms of Acura," Mendel concluded. "This year has been kind of a transition year. We've addressed both of those in this minor model change, but it won't be until the full model change where you see where we're going with the brand. That decision had cost the brand some ‘cachet’ and could be reviewed in the future. We always evaluating, especially with Acura, where the brand is going.”

Comparison Of Video Sharing Sites

2007-12-13T17:14:00.000-08:00

The Internet is currently playing a key role in the car shopping needs of consumers. It has been reported that majority of auto buyers spend most of their time on the web when it comes to researching for a new car to buy. The advantages of using the World Wide Web includes being able to see different specs of different vehicles at the comfort of a consumer's own home. With the Internet, they would not have to visit a dealership one by one just to compare vehicles.

Recently, J.D. Power and Associates conducted a study to see which video sharing sites are effective when it comes to reaching car buyers. The Auto Channel reported that smaller video-sharing sites are more effective in targeting buyers of specific segments than larger sites.

Arianne Walker, director of marketing and media research at J.D. Power and Associates said: "A relatively small number of adults -- roughly 6 percent of the population -- purchase a new vehicle each year, so it is particularly important to carefully target automotive advertising to mediums that will provide the best balance of audience reach and penetration. More new-vehicle buyers are viewing video on the Web, and advertisers could benefit from staying on top of this growing trend."

"Finding ways to closely and efficiently target consumers can be extremely beneficial to automakers, particularly when vehicle segments experiencing considerable growth in sales are pinpointed," continued Walker. "In this instance, smaller video-sharing sites attract a higher concentration of compact CUV buyers, which can make such sites more effective in targeting these buyers with relevant automotive advertising."

Walker explained further: "As an example, YouTube's and MSN Video's visitor target demographics are nearly identical. However, when segment reach is examined more closely, it becomes apparent that MSN Video has the propensity to deliver a higher proportion of target compact CUV buyers, compared with YouTube."

This only shows the potential that the Internet has for reaching car buyers. Through the Web, consumers can also find auto parts such as radiators for Nissan vehicles for sale.

Holiday Carols To Save Teen Drivers This Season

2007-12-10T23:04:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, car crashes are the scariest nightmares for teen drivers! Almost 6,000 lives were already taken and the most shocking thing about this is that the Christmas season is the deadliest time for young adult drivers… sad but true!

However, a group of dedicated teenagers didn’t let any barriers or a defective ignition coil block them from spreading joyful cheers with several smart driving tips and messages. According to The Auto Channel, during one of the first contests of its category created "Holiday Holla," Danny Luebke and Carl Turner, both 18 from New Prague, Minnesota, won $15,000 and were acknowledged for their originality in being smart driving supporters. The award was given courtesy of The Allstate Foundation.

"It's still so unreal," said Turner. "We're really excited about this - performing was crazy, there were thousands of people there. Danny and I are so happy to have learned about Keep the Drive and The Allstate Foundation; we hope our all the other teens out there will check our song out on HolidayHolla.com and drive smarter as a result."

Danny Luebke and Carl Turner and the four other groups of finalists from all over the US presented at the Mall of America last December 8. The pair earned the admiration of the crowds and panel of judges with their piece "Make a Difference," a cheerful acoustic adaptation of the holiday cheer "Good King Wenceslaus."

"Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens," said Swift. "That's a scary fact, but something we as young drivers have the power to change. It's great for me to have this forum to reach out to my fellow teen drivers to promote smart driving in a fun way, especially during the holidays. Hopefully teens will start to think twice before doing something dangerous like text messaging while driving."

Other winners are Nick Bates, 15, Fred Kreider, 15, and Lucas Wiggins, 14, all of Minneapolis, Minnesota. They performed "Christmas Eve," a punk rock version of "We Three Kings." They won second place and the $3,000 runners-up prize. Lauren Lindstrom, 17, of Santa Cruz, Calif, Zoe Novic, 16, of Ben Lomond, Calif, and Eli Zinman, 16 of Santa Cruz, Calif, grabbed $1,500 in the third place.