Friday, July 31, 2009
Honda recalls another 440,000 vehicles
Honda Motor Co. said Friday it widened a previously announced recall to add 440,000 cars that could have a lethal airbag defect.
Affected models include the 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2001 Civic and 2002-2003 Acura TL.
The potential defect has caused 6 known injuries and one known death, according to Honda spokesman Chris Naughton.
The recall will require the driver's side steering-wheel-mounted airbag inflator to be replaced.
In some cars, the airbag inflators may over-pressurize the inflator mechanism as the airbag is deploying, which could cause the inflator casing to rupture, according to Honda. As a result the carmaker said, "Metal fragments could pass through the cloth airbag cushion material, possibly causing an injury or fatality to vehicle occupants."
In the meantime, Honda owners can log onto the Web site www.owners.honda.com/recalls and click on the "Owner Link" to get a status of their recall. Acura owners should go to www.owners.acura.com/recalls and click on the "My Acura" link. Honda recalls another 440,000 vehicles
Affected models include the 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2001 Civic and 2002-2003 Acura TL.
The potential defect has caused 6 known injuries and one known death, according to Honda spokesman Chris Naughton.
The recall will require the driver's side steering-wheel-mounted airbag inflator to be replaced.
In some cars, the airbag inflators may over-pressurize the inflator mechanism as the airbag is deploying, which could cause the inflator casing to rupture, according to Honda. As a result the carmaker said, "Metal fragments could pass through the cloth airbag cushion material, possibly causing an injury or fatality to vehicle occupants."
In the meantime, Honda owners can log onto the Web site www.owners.honda.com/recalls and click on the "Owner Link" to get a status of their recall. Acura owners should go to www.owners.acura.com/recalls and click on the "My Acura" link. Honda recalls another 440,000 vehicles
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Mercedes-Benz claim S-Class best car in the USA
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is, according to Mercedes, regarded by consumers as the best car available in the US market.
In an exhaustive customer survey the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was awarded the highest number of overall points for the third time running, and takes not only the best car in its’ segment, but also, Mercedes argue, for the entire US market.
The 2009 APEAL study, which stands for "Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study" by the market research institute J. D. Power, examined how satisfied car buyers were with their new cars after driving them for three months between December 2008 and February 2009.
Roughly 81,000 new car buyers then delivered verdicts on a variety of aspects in a detailed questionnaire. These aspects included: driving characteristics, exterior and interior design, operating functionality, stowage space, but also such issues as the noise made when closing the doors.
Where 1000 points was the maximum achievable, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class scored 887 points – the highest number in any of the categories. Mercedes claim that “this makes the luxury saloon the best car in the US market, as well as the measure of all things in the large premium car segment.”
According to the J.D Power website, “The average APEAL score for all models in 2009 has improved considerably to 779 from 770 in 2008, driven primarily by increased owner satisfaction with fuel economy. First, fuel prices have decreased significantly during the past year, which has reduced owner concerns about gas mileage. Third, automakers are designing models to be more fuel efficient than their predecessors.
The company state that some of the big improvements in vehicle satisfaction reports come from domestic products, particularly from Dodge, Pontiac, Buick and Cadillac. For American consumers wanting to stay with American products, the company reports the following good news:
“The overall gap in APEAL scores between domestic and import models has narrowed considerably during the past several years and is just five index points in 2009, compared with 15 points in 2008 and 27 points in 2007. Among premium models, import nameplates retain a slight edge, while among non-premium models; domestic brands have a similar edge.”
It means domestic manufacturers are heeding the demands of American consumers and are catching up to their international cousins in terms of general build quality and performance. The S-Class’s impressive overall score can't be ignored and Mercedes' claim for best car in the luxury segment is definitely well deserved.
In an exhaustive customer survey the Mercedes-Benz S-Class was awarded the highest number of overall points for the third time running, and takes not only the best car in its’ segment, but also, Mercedes argue, for the entire US market.
The 2009 APEAL study, which stands for "Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study" by the market research institute J. D. Power, examined how satisfied car buyers were with their new cars after driving them for three months between December 2008 and February 2009.
Roughly 81,000 new car buyers then delivered verdicts on a variety of aspects in a detailed questionnaire. These aspects included: driving characteristics, exterior and interior design, operating functionality, stowage space, but also such issues as the noise made when closing the doors.
Where 1000 points was the maximum achievable, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class scored 887 points – the highest number in any of the categories. Mercedes claim that “this makes the luxury saloon the best car in the US market, as well as the measure of all things in the large premium car segment.”
According to the J.D Power website, “The average APEAL score for all models in 2009 has improved considerably to 779 from 770 in 2008, driven primarily by increased owner satisfaction with fuel economy. First, fuel prices have decreased significantly during the past year, which has reduced owner concerns about gas mileage. Third, automakers are designing models to be more fuel efficient than their predecessors.
The company state that some of the big improvements in vehicle satisfaction reports come from domestic products, particularly from Dodge, Pontiac, Buick and Cadillac. For American consumers wanting to stay with American products, the company reports the following good news:
“The overall gap in APEAL scores between domestic and import models has narrowed considerably during the past several years and is just five index points in 2009, compared with 15 points in 2008 and 27 points in 2007. Among premium models, import nameplates retain a slight edge, while among non-premium models; domestic brands have a similar edge.”
It means domestic manufacturers are heeding the demands of American consumers and are catching up to their international cousins in terms of general build quality and performance. The S-Class’s impressive overall score can't be ignored and Mercedes' claim for best car in the luxury segment is definitely well deserved.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Magna Changes Final Offer For Opel
Magna has changed its final offer for General Motors Co.'s German unit Adam Opel GmbH and is now willing to provide more capital initially than previously planned, a government official who declined to be named told Dow Jones Newswires Tuesday.
Magna and its Russian partners still intend to invest a total of EUR500 million of their own money in Opel, but are now willing to provide EUR350 million when signing the deal and then EUR150 million in convertible bonds.
Magna was not immediately available for comment. A spokesman for GM Europe declined to comment.
Previously, Magna and its partners had offered EUR100 million to be paid on signing the deal and EUR400 million in loans, which would gradually be transformed into equity capital.
"Magna is now willing to enter risks earlier than previously planned," said the official.
U.S. automaker GM is still in talks with Magna and Belgian investment group RHJ International SA (RHJI.BT) over a takeover of Opel/Vauxhall. Final bids were submitted to the carmaker July 20. Magna and RHJ remain in the bidding races while Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd. recently dropped out.
The German federal and state governments have a say in Opel because all bidders have requested state aid for the carmaker. The federal government has repeatedly called on the bidders to provide more of their own capital.
The German federal government, as well as those German states with Opel production sites, wants Magna to win the bid because they expect the car supplier to have a long-term interest in Opel while GM seems to favor RHJ.
Magna and its Russian partners still intend to invest a total of EUR500 million of their own money in Opel, but are now willing to provide EUR350 million when signing the deal and then EUR150 million in convertible bonds.
Magna was not immediately available for comment. A spokesman for GM Europe declined to comment.
Previously, Magna and its partners had offered EUR100 million to be paid on signing the deal and EUR400 million in loans, which would gradually be transformed into equity capital.
"Magna is now willing to enter risks earlier than previously planned," said the official.
U.S. automaker GM is still in talks with Magna and Belgian investment group RHJ International SA (RHJI.BT) over a takeover of Opel/Vauxhall. Final bids were submitted to the carmaker July 20. Magna and RHJ remain in the bidding races while Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd. recently dropped out.
The German federal and state governments have a say in Opel because all bidders have requested state aid for the carmaker. The federal government has repeatedly called on the bidders to provide more of their own capital.
The German federal government, as well as those German states with Opel production sites, wants Magna to win the bid because they expect the car supplier to have a long-term interest in Opel while GM seems to favor RHJ.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Summer Driving Tips
* Tires -- To help prevent dangerous and inconvenient tire failure, examine tires for uneven or excessive tread wear. * Belt, Hoses and Fluids -- With the engine off, look for worn or cracked belts and damaged, blistered or soft hoses. Inspect the antifreeze/coolant level and condition, making certain the proper 50/50 mixture of water, and coolant is present.
* Motor Oil -- Check motor oil level and condition. If driving under extreme conditions, such as very hot temperatures or towing a heavy trailer, switch to motor oil with higher viscosity. Check the owner's manual for specific oil recommendations.
* Air Conditioning -- A properly working air conditioning system also will help motorists keep their cool in summer heat. * Emergency Kit -- Because even properly maintained vehicles can break down, AAA Minneapolis advises motorists to equip their vehicle with an emergency kit containing at least the following items: 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.
* Motor Oil -- Check motor oil level and condition. If driving under extreme conditions, such as very hot temperatures or towing a heavy trailer, switch to motor oil with higher viscosity. Check the owner's manual for specific oil recommendations.
* Air Conditioning -- A properly working air conditioning system also will help motorists keep their cool in summer heat. * Emergency Kit -- Because even properly maintained vehicles can break down, AAA Minneapolis advises motorists to equip their vehicle with an emergency kit containing at least the following items: 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.
Sports Car Rental
Sports car rental options allow you to drive the car of your dreams without actually having to own one. Why rent a sports car, you ask? There are as many reasons as there are sports cars to rent.
Renting a sports car can be a great way to add spice to your next date night. What sports cars can you rent? Here is a sample of some of the most popular sport rentals.
Ferrari 360 Spider
The Ferrari name evokes images of pure power, aggressive lines and the smell of burning rubber. The Ferrari 360 Spider features a mid-mounted, 400-horsepower 3.6-liter V8, as well as convertible style and flare. Lamborghini Gallardo
Like Ferrari, the Lamborghini name evokes images of powerful performance and head-turning good looks. The Gallardo offers a 5-liter V10 capable of producing 520 horsepower (in the SE version). This exotic sports car will turn heads no matter where you go to give you the fix of power and performance that you demand. The six-speed transmission and "thrust" gear offers increased performance, while the unmistakable body lines provide you with the racecar feel you crave.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 has long been a mainstay of the sports car world. Debuting in 1963, the 911 has undergone numerous transformations. The current incarnation offers 355 horsepower from a Flat six engine mounted in the rear. Turbo versions of the 911 are available for those with an insatiable need for speed.
Ford GT
The current GT produces 550 horsepower from a 5.4-liter V8 and features the highly recognizable body style, combined with racing stripes down the center of the vehicle.
Renting a sports car can be a great way to add spice to your next date night. What sports cars can you rent? Here is a sample of some of the most popular sport rentals.
Ferrari 360 Spider
The Ferrari name evokes images of pure power, aggressive lines and the smell of burning rubber. The Ferrari 360 Spider features a mid-mounted, 400-horsepower 3.6-liter V8, as well as convertible style and flare. Lamborghini Gallardo
Like Ferrari, the Lamborghini name evokes images of powerful performance and head-turning good looks. The Gallardo offers a 5-liter V10 capable of producing 520 horsepower (in the SE version). This exotic sports car will turn heads no matter where you go to give you the fix of power and performance that you demand. The six-speed transmission and "thrust" gear offers increased performance, while the unmistakable body lines provide you with the racecar feel you crave.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 has long been a mainstay of the sports car world. Debuting in 1963, the 911 has undergone numerous transformations. The current incarnation offers 355 horsepower from a Flat six engine mounted in the rear. Turbo versions of the 911 are available for those with an insatiable need for speed.
Ford GT
The current GT produces 550 horsepower from a 5.4-liter V8 and features the highly recognizable body style, combined with racing stripes down the center of the vehicle.
How to Properly Repair Paint Chips
The repair of a scratch and a chip is the same. A scratch is merely a chip on uni-directional steroids. Touchup or color matched paint
Compatible primer - I like Worth Ruston primer
Organic cleaner - P21S Total Auto Wash or Worth Citrus Degreaser
Solvent - Rubbing Alcohol or Prep sol or Enamel Reducer
3M Imperial Hand Glaze
Sanding Block 2000 grit
Car wash
600 grit wet/dry sandpaper
Round undid wooden toothpicks
Large lightweight cardboard boxes (large shoe box or bigger)
Several 100% cotton towels
New Pencils with unused erasers
Rubber glue
Several heavy clean plastic cups
Roll of quality paint masking tape
Paint chip repair is a learned skill and should be practiced on an area of the car that is not that visible. Test all cleaners or solvents on the paint before usage. Apply a little cleaner or solvent to a clothe and rub the seam. If you do not get any color on the rag, then the cleaner/solvent should be safe for the paint. CHIP REPAIR STEPS:
2. Step #1: Wash the car with a high quality car wash and dry thoroughly.
3. Paint chips come in two flavors. If there is rust on the exposed metal, clean off with the pencil eraser. If you do not feel comfortable with sanding or your paint is one of the new clear-coated finishes, you should jump to step number 5. Take a new pencil/sandpaper tool, dip into clean water and put the few drops of water on the chip area. *SLIGHTLY* rough up the chip and a small portion of the surrounding paint. Keep the roughed up area as small as possible, the object is to give the new paint about one mm of old paint to "grab" around the perimeter of the chip and not dig scratches.
Depending on the amount of time available, you may wish to tackle 10-20 chips at one time. Use additional solvent and new area of the rag for each chip. 6. If the original primer is intact, and "pencil sanding" does not disturb the primer, then skip the next step and go directly to painting (# 9)
7. Make sure that the chip and surrounding area is clean. If not, recline with the Prepsol, Alcohol or Enamel Reducer. Pour or spray a small amount of primer into a clean plastic cup. Dip the point of a wooden toothpick into the primer to get a thin coating on the first 1-2 mm of the toothpick. If there is a blob on the end, gently scrape it back into the cup. Place the tip of the toothpick against the center of the chip and allow capillary action to literally flow a *THIN* coat of the primer into the depression of the chip. Move onto the next prepared chip. Apply another thin coat of primer to each repair that needs primer. Priming is completed when no metal is visible and the level of the primer is *BELOW* the level of the surrounding paint. Cover and allow drying for two hours or until dry.
8. Apply a small amount of Alcohol or Prepsol or Enamel Reducer to a rag and wipe the chip and surrounding area to remove any sanding dust and grease/oils. Allow to dry. Repeat for all the chips that are on today's list of victims.
9. If you are using a touchup, shake the bottle thoroughly. If you are using color-matched paint, mix thoroughly and pour a small amount into a clean plastic cup.
10. Dip the point of a new toothpick into the paint to get a thin coating on the first 1-2 mm of the toothpick. Place the tip of the toothpick against the center of the chip and allow capillary action to literally flow the paint into the depression of the chip. Repeat for each chip. Do not redo the toothpick. Fight it!
11. Cover with your paint box and allow to dry two hours and repeat 8-12 times till the depression is filled with paint and bulges slightly upward and covers the roughed up area with a thin coating of paint. 12. The paint application is completed when the new paint bulges slightly upward (a fraction of a millimeter) and had covered the roughed up area with a thin coat of new paint. Allow the paint to dry for at least a week.
13. The touchup paint has been applied to the surface and allowed to dry for at least one week, and resembles a minute mound on the flat plane of the existing paint. The object is to remove the mound and make the surface of the paint one continual flat plane. The Finesse Block offers the ability gently to remove only the high spot of the repair. 14. Soak the Finesse Block in clean water for 24 hours before use. Put a small drop of car wash on the chip repair. Then gently "plane" the high spot on the paint. If the block dries out, re-wet and continue use. I prefer 3M Imperial Hand Glaze. Circles are many times the cause of "swirl marks." Buff out with a soft cotton clothe. If it looks good, wax with a quality hard wax and you are done.
16. Tip for applying wax. If you are using a quality Carnauba based wax, try applying it with your fingers instead of a pad or clothe. If grit should lodge under your fingers, you will know immediately and not grind it into the paint. A pad will not allow this tactile feedback and these devil grits become sandpaper. A circular motion of these pad wills make a 360-degree swirl mark. All marks those paints are most visible at a 90 degree viewing angle.
Compatible primer - I like Worth Ruston primer
Organic cleaner - P21S Total Auto Wash or Worth Citrus Degreaser
Solvent - Rubbing Alcohol or Prep sol or Enamel Reducer
3M Imperial Hand Glaze
Sanding Block 2000 grit
Car wash
600 grit wet/dry sandpaper
Round undid wooden toothpicks
Large lightweight cardboard boxes (large shoe box or bigger)
Several 100% cotton towels
New Pencils with unused erasers
Rubber glue
Several heavy clean plastic cups
Roll of quality paint masking tape
Paint chip repair is a learned skill and should be practiced on an area of the car that is not that visible. Test all cleaners or solvents on the paint before usage. Apply a little cleaner or solvent to a clothe and rub the seam. If you do not get any color on the rag, then the cleaner/solvent should be safe for the paint. CHIP REPAIR STEPS:
2. Step #1: Wash the car with a high quality car wash and dry thoroughly.
3. Paint chips come in two flavors. If there is rust on the exposed metal, clean off with the pencil eraser. If you do not feel comfortable with sanding or your paint is one of the new clear-coated finishes, you should jump to step number 5. Take a new pencil/sandpaper tool, dip into clean water and put the few drops of water on the chip area. *SLIGHTLY* rough up the chip and a small portion of the surrounding paint. Keep the roughed up area as small as possible, the object is to give the new paint about one mm of old paint to "grab" around the perimeter of the chip and not dig scratches.
Depending on the amount of time available, you may wish to tackle 10-20 chips at one time. Use additional solvent and new area of the rag for each chip. 6. If the original primer is intact, and "pencil sanding" does not disturb the primer, then skip the next step and go directly to painting (# 9)
7. Make sure that the chip and surrounding area is clean. If not, recline with the Prepsol, Alcohol or Enamel Reducer. Pour or spray a small amount of primer into a clean plastic cup. Dip the point of a wooden toothpick into the primer to get a thin coating on the first 1-2 mm of the toothpick. If there is a blob on the end, gently scrape it back into the cup. Place the tip of the toothpick against the center of the chip and allow capillary action to literally flow a *THIN* coat of the primer into the depression of the chip. Move onto the next prepared chip. Apply another thin coat of primer to each repair that needs primer. Priming is completed when no metal is visible and the level of the primer is *BELOW* the level of the surrounding paint. Cover and allow drying for two hours or until dry.
8. Apply a small amount of Alcohol or Prepsol or Enamel Reducer to a rag and wipe the chip and surrounding area to remove any sanding dust and grease/oils. Allow to dry. Repeat for all the chips that are on today's list of victims.
9. If you are using a touchup, shake the bottle thoroughly. If you are using color-matched paint, mix thoroughly and pour a small amount into a clean plastic cup.
10. Dip the point of a new toothpick into the paint to get a thin coating on the first 1-2 mm of the toothpick. Place the tip of the toothpick against the center of the chip and allow capillary action to literally flow the paint into the depression of the chip. Repeat for each chip. Do not redo the toothpick. Fight it!
11. Cover with your paint box and allow to dry two hours and repeat 8-12 times till the depression is filled with paint and bulges slightly upward and covers the roughed up area with a thin coating of paint. 12. The paint application is completed when the new paint bulges slightly upward (a fraction of a millimeter) and had covered the roughed up area with a thin coat of new paint. Allow the paint to dry for at least a week.
13. The touchup paint has been applied to the surface and allowed to dry for at least one week, and resembles a minute mound on the flat plane of the existing paint. The object is to remove the mound and make the surface of the paint one continual flat plane. The Finesse Block offers the ability gently to remove only the high spot of the repair. 14. Soak the Finesse Block in clean water for 24 hours before use. Put a small drop of car wash on the chip repair. Then gently "plane" the high spot on the paint. If the block dries out, re-wet and continue use. I prefer 3M Imperial Hand Glaze. Circles are many times the cause of "swirl marks." Buff out with a soft cotton clothe. If it looks good, wax with a quality hard wax and you are done.
16. Tip for applying wax. If you are using a quality Carnauba based wax, try applying it with your fingers instead of a pad or clothe. If grit should lodge under your fingers, you will know immediately and not grind it into the paint. A pad will not allow this tactile feedback and these devil grits become sandpaper. A circular motion of these pad wills make a 360-degree swirl mark. All marks those paints are most visible at a 90 degree viewing angle.
Keep Your Old Car Running Like New
Brenda Rivera, 30, of Tulsa, Okla. does a lot of driving. She already has 80,000 miles on her seven year old Ford Taurus.
A significant number of drivers are keeping their vehicles longer. According to national surveys, the average age of passenger cars and light trucks nationally is now among 8.8 and 9.2 years.
“Thanks to better built engines and vehicles overall, improved technology in rust inhibitors and other anti-corrosives for automobile undercarriages and bodies and the general sticker shock relating to the average price of a new car, people are keeping their older cars longer and taking better care of them than ever before,” says Dave Kunkel, retail sales and marketing manager for CITGO's Automotive Lubricants Division. “With proper maintenance, it’s not unusual to see vehicles accumulate 200,000 miles or more without needing expensive overhauls or repairs.”
Kunkel says it’s important to realize, however, that higher mileage vehicles have different needs when compared to newer vehicles. Over time, engine parts experience wear, deposits form on metal surfaces, and seals can dry out. CITGO's Supercar Ultra life Motor Oil, introduced in October 2002, is specifically formulated to meet the needs of this growing population of older, higher mileage vehicles.
“The oil gives engines an extra layer of protection by providing additional cleaning agents for critical engine parts and conditioning seals, which, thereby, helps reduce oil leakage and prevent valve deposits,” says Kunkel.
Rivera says keeping her car running in tip top shape is very important. “It’s our family vehicle. Look for Supercar Ultra life Motor Oil at CITGO branded fast lubes and leading retail stores in your area.
A significant number of drivers are keeping their vehicles longer. According to national surveys, the average age of passenger cars and light trucks nationally is now among 8.8 and 9.2 years.
“Thanks to better built engines and vehicles overall, improved technology in rust inhibitors and other anti-corrosives for automobile undercarriages and bodies and the general sticker shock relating to the average price of a new car, people are keeping their older cars longer and taking better care of them than ever before,” says Dave Kunkel, retail sales and marketing manager for CITGO's Automotive Lubricants Division. “With proper maintenance, it’s not unusual to see vehicles accumulate 200,000 miles or more without needing expensive overhauls or repairs.”
Kunkel says it’s important to realize, however, that higher mileage vehicles have different needs when compared to newer vehicles. Over time, engine parts experience wear, deposits form on metal surfaces, and seals can dry out. CITGO's Supercar Ultra life Motor Oil, introduced in October 2002, is specifically formulated to meet the needs of this growing population of older, higher mileage vehicles.
“The oil gives engines an extra layer of protection by providing additional cleaning agents for critical engine parts and conditioning seals, which, thereby, helps reduce oil leakage and prevent valve deposits,” says Kunkel.
Rivera says keeping her car running in tip top shape is very important. “It’s our family vehicle. Look for Supercar Ultra life Motor Oil at CITGO branded fast lubes and leading retail stores in your area.
How To Choose The Right Car?
Driving, across the country or merely a state line or two, is the quintessential sport. Our cars transport us to destinations like family reunions, vacations and honeymoons. Like lemonade stands and drive-in movies replaced by today’s mega-theatres and air-conditioned malls, cruising has evolved to include not only today’s safer convertibles, but other vehicles that lend themselves to the particular tastes of the driver.
“They say getting there is half the fun, and if you are driving one of this year’s newer vehicles to your vacation destination that really will be the case,” says John Davis, host and executive producer of Motor Week, a weekly automotive magazine show produced by Maryland Public Television.
Davis says you will be seeing a lot of pickups, SUVs and convertibles out there; and unlike in passed years when people might rent “fun” cars specifically to drive on vacation, “the latest trend is for people to travel in their own vehicles. It’s a comfort thing as well as being more economical,” says Davis.
So-called cross over vehicles, which combine the features of a car with those of a sedan, minivan or sport utility vehicle, are really gaining in popularity. “They are the widest, most imaginative group of vehicles to enjoy in the history of the industry,” says Davis. Vehicles that fall into this categories include the Pontiac Vibe, Subaru Baja, Honda Element, Scion xB, Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Matrix, and Chevrolet Avalanche. Safety Issues
Rollovers can also be a worry for another popular summertime car: convertibles. They tend to be slower to respond to driver inputs because they are heavier than your average sedan, but Davis points out, they have come a long way. “Convertibles used to be flimsily made and clumsy to drive, and really rattled over rough roads. Along with front airbags, many convertibles can be ordered with side impact airbags, while a few have pop-up roll-over bars that automatically provide extra protection for occupants. Most also offer electronic driving aids like anti-lock brakes and electronic stability systems.
Not just about safety, but other drivers, and local laws as they relate to aggressive driving and cell phone use. So, toss the cell phone in the glove compartment, strap on your seat belt and enjoy your next road trip.
“They say getting there is half the fun, and if you are driving one of this year’s newer vehicles to your vacation destination that really will be the case,” says John Davis, host and executive producer of Motor Week, a weekly automotive magazine show produced by Maryland Public Television.
Davis says you will be seeing a lot of pickups, SUVs and convertibles out there; and unlike in passed years when people might rent “fun” cars specifically to drive on vacation, “the latest trend is for people to travel in their own vehicles. It’s a comfort thing as well as being more economical,” says Davis.
So-called cross over vehicles, which combine the features of a car with those of a sedan, minivan or sport utility vehicle, are really gaining in popularity. “They are the widest, most imaginative group of vehicles to enjoy in the history of the industry,” says Davis. Vehicles that fall into this categories include the Pontiac Vibe, Subaru Baja, Honda Element, Scion xB, Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Matrix, and Chevrolet Avalanche. Safety Issues
Rollovers can also be a worry for another popular summertime car: convertibles. They tend to be slower to respond to driver inputs because they are heavier than your average sedan, but Davis points out, they have come a long way. “Convertibles used to be flimsily made and clumsy to drive, and really rattled over rough roads. Along with front airbags, many convertibles can be ordered with side impact airbags, while a few have pop-up roll-over bars that automatically provide extra protection for occupants. Most also offer electronic driving aids like anti-lock brakes and electronic stability systems.
Not just about safety, but other drivers, and local laws as they relate to aggressive driving and cell phone use. So, toss the cell phone in the glove compartment, strap on your seat belt and enjoy your next road trip.
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 those fans 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 do not overfill.
6. If 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 do not need to carry snow chains around with you in the summertime. 8. Try not to idle your engine for long periods of time. 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. Do not 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. 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. 14. Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. 15. If 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, do not fill up. Filling up your tank when the price is peeking 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 among 20 miles-per-gallon and 40 miles-per-gallon is huge.
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 those fans 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 do not overfill.
6. If 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 do not need to carry snow chains around with you in the summertime. 8. Try not to idle your engine for long periods of time. 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. Do not 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. 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. 14. Revving the engine needlessly wastes gas. 15. If 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, do not fill up. Filling up your tank when the price is peeking 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 among 20 miles-per-gallon and 40 miles-per-gallon is huge.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
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Thursday, July 2, 2009
تويوتا تخطط لغزو أمريكا بسيارتها المعجزة بريوس
يسعى مصممو "تويوتا بريوس" ، السيارة الهجين ذات الشكل المميز ، إلى إنتاج جيل جديد من سياراتها الهجين، يعتبر ـ عمليا ـ الجيل الثالث منها.
ويحرص مسئولو التصميم في "تويوتا" أكبر شركة سيارات في العالم على التأكيد على أن الجيل الثالث من "بريوس" لن يكون لـ"بعض الأشخاص المميزين" فقط ، بل "للعامة".
وكانت شركة السيارات الأولى في العالم قد احتاجت إلى أربعة أعوام ونصف العام لإنجاز عمليات تعديل "بريوس"، بحيث تصبح أكبر من مجرد "رمز بيئي".
وكانت "تويوتا" قد بدأت في تحفيز بقية الشركات العالمية منذ عام عام 1997 على الالتزام أكثر فأكثر بمتطلبات الحفاظ على البيئة بفضل "بريوس".
يتميز الطراز الجديد بأنه أقوى من سابقيه، فهو أعلى ارتفاعا منهما، ومزود بصندوق أكبر، وبقدرة أفضل على توفير استهلاك الوقود (البنزين) في كل ميل يقطعه. وبالإضافة إلى كل ذلك، يباع بسعر أقل.
طرح هذا الطراز مؤخرا في الولايات المتحدة، وبدا أنه يحقق نجاحا كبيرا، رغم الأوضاع الاقتصادية الصعبة التي أثرت بشكل واضح على مبيعات السيارات.
الجدير بالذكر أن "بريوس" كانت أفضل السيارات مبيعا في اليابان خلال فترة الانتعاش الاستثنائي لمبيعات السيارات اليابانية، الأمر الذي حمل الشركة على العودة إلى نظام العمل لساعات إضافية في مصنعي تجميع هذه السيارة؛ من أجل تلبية الطلب المحلي المتزايد عليها.
وقد تم استقدام العمال من مصانع عدة من جميع أنحاء البلاد، وارتفع الإنتاج إلى 50.000 سيارة في الشهر. ومع ذلك، يتوجب على الراغبين في شراء "بريوس" الجديدة في اليابان الانتظار لمدة ثلاثة أو أربعة أشهر، لكي يحصلوا على نسخة منها.
الإقبال الواسع على "بريوس" في سوق لا تزال تعاني من حالة ركود اقتصادي كان مفاجئا للشركة، علما بأن حوافز ضريبية جديدة ساعدت على زيادة المبيعات.
مميزات "بريوس" لا ترشحها فقط لأن تكون السيارة الهجين الأكثر مبيعا، بل أيضا السيارة القدوة لديترويت عاصمة صناعة السيارات الأمريكية، ، في حال خططت للعودة إلى سابق عهدها، بدليل أن أفضل سيارتي سيدان مبيعا في الولايات المتحدة في العام الماضي كانتا "تويوتا كامري"، و"هوندا أكورد".
ويحرص مسئولو التصميم في "تويوتا" أكبر شركة سيارات في العالم على التأكيد على أن الجيل الثالث من "بريوس" لن يكون لـ"بعض الأشخاص المميزين" فقط ، بل "للعامة".
وكانت شركة السيارات الأولى في العالم قد احتاجت إلى أربعة أعوام ونصف العام لإنجاز عمليات تعديل "بريوس"، بحيث تصبح أكبر من مجرد "رمز بيئي".
وكانت "تويوتا" قد بدأت في تحفيز بقية الشركات العالمية منذ عام عام 1997 على الالتزام أكثر فأكثر بمتطلبات الحفاظ على البيئة بفضل "بريوس".
يتميز الطراز الجديد بأنه أقوى من سابقيه، فهو أعلى ارتفاعا منهما، ومزود بصندوق أكبر، وبقدرة أفضل على توفير استهلاك الوقود (البنزين) في كل ميل يقطعه. وبالإضافة إلى كل ذلك، يباع بسعر أقل.
طرح هذا الطراز مؤخرا في الولايات المتحدة، وبدا أنه يحقق نجاحا كبيرا، رغم الأوضاع الاقتصادية الصعبة التي أثرت بشكل واضح على مبيعات السيارات.
الجدير بالذكر أن "بريوس" كانت أفضل السيارات مبيعا في اليابان خلال فترة الانتعاش الاستثنائي لمبيعات السيارات اليابانية، الأمر الذي حمل الشركة على العودة إلى نظام العمل لساعات إضافية في مصنعي تجميع هذه السيارة؛ من أجل تلبية الطلب المحلي المتزايد عليها.
وقد تم استقدام العمال من مصانع عدة من جميع أنحاء البلاد، وارتفع الإنتاج إلى 50.000 سيارة في الشهر. ومع ذلك، يتوجب على الراغبين في شراء "بريوس" الجديدة في اليابان الانتظار لمدة ثلاثة أو أربعة أشهر، لكي يحصلوا على نسخة منها.
الإقبال الواسع على "بريوس" في سوق لا تزال تعاني من حالة ركود اقتصادي كان مفاجئا للشركة، علما بأن حوافز ضريبية جديدة ساعدت على زيادة المبيعات.
مميزات "بريوس" لا ترشحها فقط لأن تكون السيارة الهجين الأكثر مبيعا، بل أيضا السيارة القدوة لديترويت عاصمة صناعة السيارات الأمريكية، ، في حال خططت للعودة إلى سابق عهدها، بدليل أن أفضل سيارتي سيدان مبيعا في الولايات المتحدة في العام الماضي كانتا "تويوتا كامري"، و"هوندا أكورد".
أودي تطرح ايه فايف سبورت باك المزيج من الكوبيه والسيدان
بحث
أودي تطرح "A5 سبورت باك" المزيج من الكوبيه والسيدان
2 يوليو 2009 - 16:48
أودي A4 أحد طرازات أودي الألمانية
أعلنت شركة "أودي" الألمانية لصناعة السيارات أن سيارتها الجديدة "A5 سبورت باك" التي ستعرض في معارض السيارات الألمانية اعتبارا من سبتمبر المقبل، تنضم إلى عائلة "A5" كعضو ثالث بعد الطرازين الكوبيه والمكشوف.
وتجمع السيارة ، التي يبدأ سعرها من 36050 يورو ، وهي ذات خمسة أبواب ، بين أناقة السيارة الكوبيه والطبيعة العملية للسيارة السيدان.
وتظهر سمات السيارة الكوبيه في تصميم السيارة الجديدة من خلال خط السقف الطويل والذي ينخفض بقليل عنه في السيارة السيدان "A4" ، ويظهر به بروز قصير في الأمام والخلف وأبواب دون إطار فضلا عن نوافذ صغيرة.
وتم تزويد كل محركات السيارة بنظام الحقن المباشر ، أما محركات الديزل فتستخدم وحدات "TDI" ذات القضبان المشتركة المتطورة. وتعتمد وحدات البنزين على مفهوم "إف إس أي".
وتلتزم جميع المحركات بمستويات انبعاث العوادم المسموح بها ، كما أنه تم تزويد محركات الديزل بمرشحات للشوائب.
وذكرت "أودي" أن مشتري سيارتها "A5 سبورت باك" سيكون بإمكانه الاختيار بين محركين بنزين وثلاثة محركات ديزل ، وأوضحت أن أحد محركي البنزين ، "تي إف اس أي كواترو" ذي الدفع الرباعي تبلغ سعته 2.0 لتر وقوته 155 كيلووات/211 حصان ، ومحرك 3.2 لتر به ست إسطوانات كواترو للدفع الرباعي أيضا وقوته 195 كيلووات/265 حصان/.
وتم تزويد المحركين بنظام "أودي" لرفع الصمامات الذي يساعد على إنتاج مزيد من الطاقة مع خفض استهلاك الوقود.
أودي تطرح "A5 سبورت باك" المزيج من الكوبيه والسيدان
2 يوليو 2009 - 16:48
أودي A4 أحد طرازات أودي الألمانية
أعلنت شركة "أودي" الألمانية لصناعة السيارات أن سيارتها الجديدة "A5 سبورت باك" التي ستعرض في معارض السيارات الألمانية اعتبارا من سبتمبر المقبل، تنضم إلى عائلة "A5" كعضو ثالث بعد الطرازين الكوبيه والمكشوف.
وتجمع السيارة ، التي يبدأ سعرها من 36050 يورو ، وهي ذات خمسة أبواب ، بين أناقة السيارة الكوبيه والطبيعة العملية للسيارة السيدان.
وتظهر سمات السيارة الكوبيه في تصميم السيارة الجديدة من خلال خط السقف الطويل والذي ينخفض بقليل عنه في السيارة السيدان "A4" ، ويظهر به بروز قصير في الأمام والخلف وأبواب دون إطار فضلا عن نوافذ صغيرة.
وتم تزويد كل محركات السيارة بنظام الحقن المباشر ، أما محركات الديزل فتستخدم وحدات "TDI" ذات القضبان المشتركة المتطورة. وتعتمد وحدات البنزين على مفهوم "إف إس أي".
وتلتزم جميع المحركات بمستويات انبعاث العوادم المسموح بها ، كما أنه تم تزويد محركات الديزل بمرشحات للشوائب.
وذكرت "أودي" أن مشتري سيارتها "A5 سبورت باك" سيكون بإمكانه الاختيار بين محركين بنزين وثلاثة محركات ديزل ، وأوضحت أن أحد محركي البنزين ، "تي إف اس أي كواترو" ذي الدفع الرباعي تبلغ سعته 2.0 لتر وقوته 155 كيلووات/211 حصان ، ومحرك 3.2 لتر به ست إسطوانات كواترو للدفع الرباعي أيضا وقوته 195 كيلووات/265 حصان/.
وتم تزويد المحركين بنظام "أودي" لرفع الصمامات الذي يساعد على إنتاج مزيد من الطاقة مع خفض استهلاك الوقود.
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