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Archive for August, 2008
Sun, August 31, 2008 8:37 am By James Coolridge  Printer friendly version
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 Drivers of hybrid vehicles at New Jersey Turnpike could use high occupancy vehicle lanes which will bring much relief in their commutation. The move is welcome as it will encourage people to opt for hybrid vehicles in the era of rapidly rising fuel prices. Owners of hybrid cars could drive in HOV lanes without any occupant.
Hybrid car will be next big thing in automobile industry. Cars that could get more then 100 miles per gallon could be termed as the cars of the future. Since electric cost is one third of the current gas price, there seems much depth in his thought.
Great news in between is that 3 automakers have unveiled their new and latest hybrid cars and the related technology at an environmental conference Event was first national convention of the Sierra Club, largest environmental organization of the country. Honda, Ford and Toyota are the 3 companies brought their hybrid vehicles and technology here.
At the Sierra Summit, Ford presented consumers their initial peek at their newest hybrid sports utility vehicle — the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid. The compact, four-wheel-drive SUV can run 33 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on highways. Honda uncovered the 2006 Civic Hybrid, which can get 50 miles per gallon on highways and city streets. Toyota would begin selling a hybrid version of its Camry sedan and a seven-passenger SUV, called the Highlander Hybrid.
Is BMW coming with BMW hybrid car? No, BMW is not coming with BMW hybrid car but hydrogen powered cars and fuel cell cars. BMW German carmaker’s H2R is the world’s fastest hydrogen powered car that has speed up to 185 miles per hour.
Generally, hydrogen-powered vehicles operate on fuel cells. In BMW Hydrogen, powered car uses a modified 6-liter, 12 cylinder combustion engine for its propulsion. Engine in BMW emits only water thus making is one of the most environment friendly car in the present times.
BMW is also developing fuel cell cars. It is developing combustion engine as the sum total of features and characteristics offered by it has got largest number of advantages all in one.
Isn’t hybrid cars cool? Yes, it is. But why? Have you ever thought of the green house effect or how the exhaust from the cars degrading our environment? Have you ever thought of going green? Have you ever thought what is the gift you are going to give to next generation. Are you planning that you would not give even a ounce of fresh air for the generations to come. Have you ever thought how much you would make your country dependable on other countries for fossil fuel? If you have not given thought to all the above then .Let’s do it even if you have to cough a bit of extra $1000-1500 as this price is nothing as compared to the benefits you are going to get when you buy a hybrid car.
Tags: Cars, Automobiles, hybrid vehicles, technology, environment friendly
Sat, August 30, 2008 4:13 pm By James Coolridge
 Are you a racing fan who is looking for something to satisfy your need for speed? It is highly unlikely that the average person will ever afford to own a Porsche, Ferrari, or Lamborghini, even after many years of saving and wishful thinking. Don’t let that stop you from fantasizing about what it would be like to drive one of these super-fast cars, just like your heroes in the movies.
Or would a big variety of great cars in spectacular condition interest you? Tired of looking at race cars that look like they were spit out of the same mold? Vintage sports car racing offers you all of that and more. They offer a huge variety, great racing and fantastic scenery.
From all the formula cars you can think of, Formula Cooper to Formula One, GT cars like Trans-Am Boss Mustangs and Camaros to the awesome GTP and Group C cars that would suck off manhole covers as they passed over them. Cars you can see nowhere else are right there for you to enjoy.
1-Single-seater (open-wheel) racing is one of the most popular forms of motor sport, with cars designed specifically for high-speed racing. The wheels are not covered, and the cars often have aerofoil wings front and rear to produce down force and enhance adhesion to the track.
2-Touring car racing is a style of road racing that is run with production derived race cars. It often features exciting, full-contact racing due to the small speed differentials and large grids.
3-Rallying, or rally racing, involves two classes of car. A rally is typically conducted over a number of ’special stages’ of any terrain, which entrants are often allowed to scout beforehand at reduced speeds compiling detailed shorthand descriptions of the track or road as they go.
4-Targa is a tarmac-based road rally which is run all around the world. This began with the Targa Florio
5-In drag racing, the objective is to complete a given straight-line distance, from a standing start, ahead of a vehicle in a parallel lane.
While there are several professional teams and drivers in historical racing, this branch of auto sport tends to be contested by wealthy car owners and is thus more amateur and laid back in its approach.
For those who think all sports are just games, they are technically correct. The sports we play and watch are just games. But what they mean to us and what they have come to represent are so much more than that. Sports speak a universal language that we all can understand. Nothing can bring people closer and nothing can potentially tear more people apart than sports.
Tags: Automobiles, speed, auto racing, sports cars
Fri, August 29, 2008 4:08 pm By James Coolridge
 Once more, Japanese automobile giant Honda has launched an ultimate genius that is complete with appealing design features, power and luxury beyond comparison. The all new Honda Accord Coupe 2009 is truly manufactured to give you the style, performance, safety and luxury. The new beast has got the definite beauty, both in its interior and exterior. The eye catching design of the new Honda Accord Coupe 2009 gives a sporty look with an aggressive stance. The available 18 inch alloy wheels are just sufficient to attract the crowd towards you. The new projector-beam headlights get the design inspiration from the Eagle eyes. The exterior is brilliantly finished with several attractive features such as chrome door handles and jewel like brake lights.
Now take a look at the power factor. The new Honda Accord Coupe, 2009 comes with an option of three different engines, a 190 hp, 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine and two versions of a 271-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 i-VTEC engine (automatic models and the 6-speed manual transmission model). The car is added with features such as latest-generation Honda Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that offers both brisk acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. The low center of gravity and the independent multi-link rear suspension added as new technical features gives you a better control on you car.
Fitted with superior quality leather-trimmed, deep-bolstered seats to give you the ultimate feeling of comfort. The driver’s seat with eight-way power adjustment (EX-L) will certainly insist you to indulge more with your Honda Accord Coupe. The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with advanced technologies such as voice recognition system feed you with endless resource of information. This system is Bluetooth enabled and the Hands-free Link system assists you to make calls with many Bluetooth-compatible mobile phones. The steering wheel mounted control system enables you to access audio, cruise, navigation system and hands-free functions easily. Complete with high quality audio system with 6 speakers and a 6-disc in-dash changer and an auxiliary input jack for MP3 players, the Honda Accord Coupe lives up your love for music and entertainment.
To summarize in a few sentences, the all new Honda Accord Coupe, 2009 is a perfect example of a coupe that has got powerful engine, attractive design, enhanced safety and excellent fuel economy. With the new Honda Accord Coupe, you will rule the roads. This new beast is sure to add many extras to you and your performance. The new Honda Accord Coupe 2009 is a definitely a design excellence that will give you sheer exhilaration.
Tags: Honda Accord, Honda Accord Coupe 2009, Honda Accord V-6 i-VTEC engine, Honda Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), Honda Coupe 2009
Thu, August 28, 2008 6:27 am By James Coolridge
 Mercedes has always brought with it surprises with every new version that it has launched. Here are some of its top models with changes that’ll make you fall in love with them all more!
C: The C-class sedan was all new for 2008. However, the apparent changes this season can be seen in the navigation system which can be seen in a 40 GB hard drive with considerable space for music as well. Suspension in these machines is softer.
CL: Well, this one will be seen with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive as standard. Also integrated in it is a parking guidance system that’ll help identify parallel parking spaces and display steering directions. Gear shift buttons on the steering wheel are replaced by paddles.
CLK: This will come with heated seats and 6-disc changer. Mercedes has announced that it will launch close to 500 coupes and 500 convertibles the coming year. This new limited Grand Edition will feature 18″ alloy wheels and Tobacco Brown interior with beige stitching. Also the coupes will get silver paint with aluminum interior while convertibles will get white paint with dark wood trim – the change just needed this season.
E: Its sport models get the AMG Sport Package as standard. The stereo has been updated. An all-new E-Class is expected to debut late in 2009 as a 2010 model.
So the magic, fun and thrill of the wheels is finally going to cast its spell on us in 2009. Freaks who thrive on automobile, get ready for some spicy bonanza as Mercedes is all set to give its best to us the next season. We’re all waiting, aren’t we!
Tags: Luxury Cars, Latest cars, best cars, Mercedes-benz
Wed, August 27, 2008 6:25 am By James Coolridge
 ‘Used cars’ – this term is certainly not seen in the positive light by most car buyers. Tradition says that buying a used car is like buying someone else’s problem. But changing times have changed the perception too. Today the risk of buying a late model is no longer an act of inhibition because the new car quality has gone up tremendously.
In fact it has now bagged a new title which reads Certified Pre-Owned, or CPO.
Well, we all know that buying a used car, especially if it is put through the process of Certified Pre-Owned program, helps us to by the latest models at much lower prices. The amount you save over buying the same model can certainly be called as a big favor you doing to your account. Even experts think so.
Only if we knew, almost one-third of all the vehicles sold come with a Certified Pre-Owned designation. For all those who didn’t know, these vehicles, esp. those which have low mileage, are put through a series of tests to undo all the anomalies in it and bring it back in top condition. Vehicles that fall into this category are mostly just off-lease, secured from factory executive car auctions, from rental fleets, or the very best trade-ins.
If you drive a vehicle pretty exhaustively, it depreciates by 15 to 20 percent on an average. The deal is if you buy one that’s Certified Pre-Owned, you avoid taking the initial depreciation, yet have an almost new car with a strong warranty and in some cases a better warranty than a new one. So how much do you pay?
Ideally, you can pay a premium in the range of 4 to 7 % for a automobile which is Certified Pre-Owned. Yes, you may find the amount a little more than what you would have paid for a new car but when you look at all the checks and balances; you realize that every thing is actually worth it.
Hence the term ‘used cars’ is no longer than a cliché today. Changing times have finally brought with it better systems to cater to its consumers to make sure that they think of these vehicles as the best and brightest in their class.
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Tue, August 26, 2008 6:22 am By James Coolridge
 Summers often set our car’s temperatures soaring high, causing us glitches at the most unwanted hours. Also there are times when our vehicles fail to even start because of high stress caused due to excessive heat. It also reduces our vehicle’s reliability on long road trips.
Tires – In order to avoid dangerous and inconvenient tire failure, one should examine tires for uneven or excessive tread wear at regular intervals. Before starting to drive, make sure that all tires, including the spare ones, are inflated properly.
Belt, Hoses and Fluids – After you turn the ignition off, always look for worn or cracked belts in order to check for damages, blistered belts or soft hoses. Make sure you inspect the antifreeze/coolant level, ensuring that the perfect balance of 50/50 mixture of water and coolant is present, at all times.
Motor Oil – Always check motor oil level before closing the garage at the end of the day. If you have been driving under extreme conditions, such as extremely hot temperatures, switch to a motor oil with higher viscosity.
Air Conditioning – An air conditioning system in a good working condition helps motorists keep their cool in summer heat. If needed, have the air conditioning serviced by a qualified technician, using the refrigerant R-12 in older systems. Strictly avoid using non-approved substitute refrigerants.
Emergency Kit – Its presence is a must in your vehicle because even the most properly maintained vehicles can break down, at most unexpected circumstances. It should ideally include a flashlight with extra batteries, warning devices such as flares or reflective triangles, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and a cellular phone to summon emergency assistance at even odd hours.
These tips address some of the most common glitches experienced by car drivers in summers. Hope it helps you in the right earnest.
Tags: driving tips, car breakdown, car management, Car Tips
Mon, August 25, 2008 6:19 am By James Coolridge
 If you have ever owned or leased a vehicle you would have probably heard the term, liability insurance. In simple terms, the insurance covers auto protection against damage you are liable for.Liability is broken down into two parts, bodily and property. Liability covers bodily injuries and property damage (BI/PD). This covers your legal liability, up to the limits you select, for damages caused to others in the insurance covered vehicle accident. In most states today, liability insurance is obligatory.
Under, bodily injury and property damage your insurance company pays for damages to an injured person as well as for property damage that you are legally obligated to pay as a result of an accident. If your policy covers you in the event where you’re sued after an accident, your insurance company will pay for a lawyer to defend you.
Liability limits generally appear as three numbers, for example, 100/50/150. The first number refers to the maximum amount, in thousands, that your insurance company is compelled to pay for bodily injury per person. The second number denotes the maximum amount that would be paid for bodily injury per claim and the third number represents the maximum your insurance company is obligated to pay for property damage you may have caused.
When buying liability insurance, it is always a good idea to “ask around”. Like most things, the cost can differ from company to company. These companies generally take into account your age, location, credit and driving record.
It is mandatory for an insurance agent to ask questions regarding your financial position. This is done so that they can determine the amount you need to protect yourself. On top of that, you might discuss an umbrella policy as added protection. The cost is usually minimal, but well worth the effort if your financial position warrants it.
One question that you should always ask concerns insurance liability and car rental. You should always keep two things in mind before you rent a car. First is to check with your current insurance company to determine if your liability covers a rental and the second would be what your deductible would be.
You may choose to go without the coverage where mandated for whatever reason, but keep in mind the penalties associated with it can result in loss of anything between loosing driving privileges to hefty fines. Therefore it is advisable not to go without automobile liability coverage.
Tags: Cars, Auto insurance, Insurance, liability insurance, Car Rental
Sun, August 24, 2008 2:21 pm By James Coolridge
 Life in the fast lane just got more exciting. As macho two-wheelers and petite four wheeler jostle for attention, the end user is in the driver’s seat. Man invented the wheel and a wiser man invented the ally wheel.
It’s a season of contrast for the motoring enthusiast this year while many bike lovers are lusting for the Sazuki Hayabusa, the revised Harley Davidson or Ducati super bike.
The big bike and small cars are the new trends across the world. Big bikes are not motorcycle that many people recognize. Ninja and Harley Davidson are rich men’s toys and can cost more than a medium or sometimes even a large car for some European Countries; men go for 500 cc or 1000 cc bike like Honda Gold Wing.
These are exaggerated macho machines that seen to proclaim the male libido indicating the owner is rich, sporting and powerful.
From the Tata Group, set the trend rating and industry experts believe that race has now begun to create smaller and light net cars at rock bottom prices. Smaller cars are becoming popular car they are very high end nowadays most of their air bags, ABS and other luxury features. They take up less space on the roads and are cheaper to run.
As for big bikes – the adrenaline rush of a big bike has no equal riding a fabulous big BMW or Mercedes “you have to use these top end machines to know how amazing they are.
Though not everyone is convinced, minimizing car size is the way to go, the best part of these new small cars is the luxury features and high comfort levels that they have. In fact, if someone have to create a bike with a shell, with ac and music , it would be a great hit. This could be the future of motoring.
Big bikes are a craze today, there who have cars would rather invest in a big bike, the fascination with the big bike his in the power of engine and are hitting you at certain speeds.
Tags: Cars, bikes
Sat, August 23, 2008 2:18 pm By James Coolridge
 Gas prices always only seem to climb, a phenomenon which is new to us no more. However, since our dependency on this is never likely to cease, we can always employ some measures to control our unnecessary wastage of this ever-so-expensive fuel. Here you go!
• Always keep your car tuned up because cars in poor condition tend to use more of this fuel.
• Your car air conditioner is one of the sole reasons that’ll give you worse gas mileage. So if it is inevitable not to use it, make sure that you are using it at a lower setting.
• Your windows should always be closed while traveling at high speeds. Open windows cause additional drag and lower your gas mileage.
• Never over fill the air in your tires because over-inflated tires can actually reduce your fuel efficiency.
• If possible, change your work start time to avoid gridlock. Stop and go traffic hurts your gas mileage.
• Avoid carrying unneeded items in your vehicle. For example, you needn’t carry snow chains around with you in the summertime.
• Avoid your engine to stay idle for longer periods of time. While suck in traffic, you can easily turn the ignition off for you certainly won’t move for the next few minutes.
• Traveling at fast speeds in low gears must be avoided unless you need the compression to slow down.
• Always drive within the speed limit.
• Accelerate slowly when leaving the stop light. Only if you knew, the fastest person through the intersection spends more on gas.
• Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. There is no need to rev before you turn your vehicle off.
These are some basic but useful tips which will invariably help you to save bucks on fuel. Our forthcoming articles will have more of such tips for you.
Tags: gasoline, gas, fuel saving, saving money on gas
Fri, August 22, 2008 1:37 pm By James Coolridge
 Certain makes of car look best in a certain colour, and picking the wrong one could make the car harder to sell. A Ferrari in any colour other than red may be less desirable and whilst white is ok for delivery vans and police cars, does it really look right on a sports car?
Bright colours suit sports cars and hot hatches, but do they look as good on executive cars, where silver or black is usually the colour of choice?
People nipping about town in a green motor tend to be cool and relaxed. Motoring around in an eco friendly automobile depends mostly on how much the driver wishes to do to what is best for the greater good. With the cost of petrol rising to new heights almost daily, drivers are finding themselves more and more interested in a fuel-efficient green car with lower tax.
An orange vehicle says you are fun loving, talkative, fickle, and trendy. A yellow-green one says you are trendy, whimsical, and lively. Happy-go-lucky types who go through life with a smile and enjoy short jaunts out on the road with a yellow car. Only fun and whimsical cars come in these colors: Volkswagen bugs and little sports cars. A silver car supposedly says that you are cool and elegant. A black vehicle says you are empowered, not easily manipulated, love elegance, and you appreciate the classics. It’s also says that you are mysterious or that you have two sides to your personality; it’s the favored car of both clergy and gangsters.
Red cars were voted as both the safest and the most dangerous, with 23 per cent of people regarding red vehicles as the lowest accident risk and 35 per cent considering them to be a high risk. The speedy, masculine and outrageous types always opt for this car colour. He meaning for the color red car which describes your personality is very interesting. You are affectionate towards others. The icon of your vehicle will have to be the red rose if you have purchased a red car this year.
Car colours can be a real pain. Buy new and there’s too much choice, but still not always the one you want. Opt for a used car and you are stuck with what’s around. But whatever the case, remember that strong metallic colours are almost always more popular and easier to keep looking good. If you can, choose a colour that suits the car and that you personally like.
Tags: Cars, | | | | |
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