Saturday, March 3, 2007

Complete Protection With the Mercedes Catalytic Converter

With two vital functions, catalytic converters are a must in every car. Catalytic converters are emission control products that convert harmful combustion byproducts from your engine into innocent compounds. Thus, catalytic converters protect your car's exhaust system while protecting the environment at the same time. With its very necessary function, choosing only quality catalytic converters is fundamental to ensure top protection for the car's exhaust system and for the environment as well. Mercedes owners are particularly lucky as one good catalytic converter was especially designed for the Mercedes cars: the Mercedes catalytic converter.

How does the Mercedes Catalytic Converter work? First, it converts carbon monoxide, a harmful gas emitted by the car's exhaust system, into carbon dioxide, a innocent gas that naturally exists in the environment. Carbon monoxide released in the environment can be fatal to humans, plants, and animals. The main job of the Mercedes catalytic converter is to prevent the vehicle's harmful emissions like the carbon monoxide to break out in the atmosphere by converting such to carbon dioxide. This process is done without compromising the Mercedes engine's power and superior performance.

While the process is usually easy to understand, it used to be that the design of such catalytic converters is actually a bit complicated. The first-generation Mercedes catalytic converter was pellet-filled and very restrictive, as it provides the needed emissions reductions but reduces the power of the engine. Mercedes engineers then set to work on redesigning the Mercedes catalytic converter into the powerful but safe device that it is today. Fortunately, the ingenuity of the brains backside Mercedes parts has mastered the design and manufacturing process of the Mercedes catalytic converter, making it effective in converting harmful gases to safe ones without compromising the engine's production power. At present, Mercedes catalytic converters are usually in two types: a high-flow Mercedes catalytic converter or a systematic Mercedes catalytic converter. A high-performance, high-flow Mercedes catalytic converter often feature less restriction than the standard Mercedes ca talytic converter, thus deriving better engine performance.

Designed to last longer, there is no need for much replacement or repair of the Mercedes catalytic converter. Nevertheless, when the need for replacement comes and the Mercedes catalytic converter's operate and use has been maximized, instant replacement must be done to prevent an outbreak of lethal pollution in the air. Replacement Mercedes catalytic converters can be readily found in the market as most auto parts sellers in various stores nationwide and online have these in stock. Car owners on a budget need not worry as the Mercedes catalytic converter and replacement Mercedes catalytic converter is very affordable and is a worthwhile purchase for your Mercedes or any other car. That's the beauty of the Mercedes catalytic converter – it's not limited for use in Mercedes cars as non-Mercedes cars can also use it.

Indeed, pollution-control car devices have become more efficient and long-lasting as compared to the early days of the automotive industry. The Mercedes catalytic converter is no exception. Through this wonder auto part, protecting one's car and the environment is a simple feat.

original by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Friday, March 2, 2007

Big 3 Face Global Warming Goad

The top executives of the largest automakers nearby the globe and the head of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union are set to testify before Congress this month during a high-profile hearing on climate change and the clamor for automakers to do more measures to curb global warming.

Rick Wagoner, the chairman and CEO of General Motors Corp., and Jim Press, the president of Toyota Motor Corp.'s North American division, have agreed to testify 14 March before the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The said committee is chaired by U.S. Rep. John Dingell, D-Dearborn.

The Ford Motor Co. and DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group have also expressed their assent to participate in the hearing. Ford will be sending its executive chairman, Bill Ford Jr., to participate in the happenings. Tom LaSorda, the Chrysler Group CEO, will also represent the automaker in the said hearing. Ron Gettelfinger, the president of UAW, will also seem at a separate session of the same hearing.

Dingell is calling the largest automakers to Washington to make a compromise to President George Bush's proposal to increase fuel economy by four percent every year. This measure is aimed at reducing vehicle emissions that have been connected to global warming. The legislator's aim is to limit greenhouse gas emissions that the automakers could sustain.

This is the very first time in recent years that top executives of the largest automakers have been called to the US Congress as a group regarding the global warming issues. The hearing will also tackle the opposition of the automakers to fuel economy standards. Critics in the industry said that the hearing could be likened to the appearance of tobacco company CEOs in 1994 to declare that nicotine was not addictive.

Automakers expressed their dissent to the idea of comparing them to tobacco executives. They noted that the auto industry has spent billions to improve the fuel efficiency of vehicles and does not oppose achievable increases. They added that the current corporate average fuel economy requirements, more commonly known and referred as CAFE, distort the market by forcing them to heavily reduction smaller, more fuel-efficient cars to meet fleet-wide mandates.

"There is change in the air," said Dave McCurdy, the current head of the Alliance of Automotive Manufacturers, which represents GM, Ford, DaimlerChrysler and Toyota among other companies. "We are going to be at the table. I often use the Oklahoma saying, 'If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.'"

In a short span, automakers have faced mounting pressure from Congress and Bush administration. The said pressure is anchored on the goal of increasing fuel efficiency of vehicles and limit greenhouse gas emissions. This goal is estimated to cost the industry billions of dollars. Aside from this, the new rules could eventually force them to cease producing heavier vehicles in favor of hybrid models.

Dingell, one of four lawmakers who met with President Bush on energy policy, has told the top automakers about the need to be part of a broad-based discount in carbon dioxide output from many industries. He added that his committee attempts to meet a July 4 target for a draft bill.

Excerpts of Dingell's statement obtained by The News state: "I am proud of what this committee accomplished thirty years ago, however, we are now confronted with new and pressing questions," pertaining to the original fuel economy law in 1975. "Faced with evidence that the globe is warming, is the current method of regulating the fuel economy of vehicles the most effective way to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, from cars and trucks?" he further shares.

The global warming goad is a serious matter because every one is affected. With the greater burden imposed on the government and other sectors, the solution is not as easy as producing sophisticated auto engines and blending them to effective brakes, EBC pads and a number of systems. It takes intensive studies and a considerable sum for the goal to be realized.

original by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Ford Mondeo to Debut at Geneva Motor Show

The all-new Mondeo from Ford Motor Co. returns to the automotive scene with the aim of making a difference. This time around, the Ford Mondeo will be seen possessing more daring kinetic design, flowing energy, and a striking totality. These qualities could be witnessed at this year's Geneva Motor Show during the debut of the car.

"The Ford Mondeo has always been acclaimed for its strong attributes, especially its driving dynamics and safety performance," said Steve Adams, the Vehicle Line Director of the Large & Luxury Cars team for Ford of Europe. "With this remarkable new model we've taken these qualities a step further and enhanced the performance of the car in nearly all aspects as well as transforming its design and quality."

The new Ford Mondeo sedan benefits from Ford Motor Company's Global Shared Technologies initiative, sharing many elements of its core architecture with the Ford S-MAX, 2007 Car of the Year, and the new generation Ford Galaxy. However, the new Mondeo is an individual model in its own right.

The Ford Mondeo keeps the traditional Mondeo strength but adds remarkable features like limousine-like comfort and NVH characteristics, ambient interior lighting, and soft-touch materials. "We wanted to create an emotional connection with the new Mondeo that would attract people from an aesthetic point of view even before they appreciate its technology," noted Martin Smith who holds the position as the Executive Director of Design of Ford of Europe. "Our goal was to make people feel impressed when they see the car, and ultimately want to own one."

Aside from the stylish yet rugged stance of the Ford Mondeo, the car also boasts driver-focused technologies like keyless entry and keyless begin with 'Ford Power' begin button, new Ford Convers+ Human Machine Interface (HMI) instrument display, Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control and Hill Launch Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

According to some critics, what made Mondeo impressive is the list of its remarkable range of auto equipment that includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Ford Easyfuel capless refuelling with fuel inhibitor to prevent misfuelling, 'follow-me-home' lights, air conditioning, trip computer, and an auxiliary audio input socket in the glove box to deliver external audio device connection.

To some, what made the sedan fascinating to drive is the real driving quality that it offers. This is the Ford Mondeo's integral attribute. The Ford Mondeo was also engineered to bring out the best in the old version without compromising safety. The automaker's enhanced Intelligent Protection System provides the up-to-date driver assistance and occupant protection technologies. The features include driver's knee airbag, full length curtain airbags, and horizontal stroking steering column.

What is found under the hood is a range of captivating powertrains that include four Duratorq TDCi diesel and five Duratec petrol engines. The power output range from 110 PS to 220 PS, including a new 2.3-litre, 161 PS Duratec HE unit coming late this year. A new Durashift 6-speed automatic transmission will also be available late this year. The engine complements the proven Durashift 5- and 6-speed manual transmission, efficient EBC brake rotors, brakes and suspension.

With the new Ford Mondeo sedan, the automaker intends to prove that the old version could be completely transformed to create a striking difference. From the external to the inside, the car epitomizes performance, flexibility, safety, and a new level of auto craftsmanship.

original by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Ford Ups Mullaly’s Bonus

The Ford Motor Co. said Allan Mullaly, the company's new CEO, will be getting an extra $1M bonus. The board of directors of the company has approved a $6 million stock option bonus, $1 million more than what was formerly promised for Mullaly.

Ford said Mullaly's bonus was based on his performance during the first several months of working in the company. For 2007, his complete compensation package could add up to $16.5 million.

According to documents filed with Securities and Exchange Commission, Ford's board also approved cash payments to other senior executives to compensate them for a bonus program the company is scrapping in favor of a new compensation plan.

The news about Ford's payouts came as thousands of salaried workers who signed up for buyouts or early retirement packages bid farewells to their friends and workmates. The announcement was also shut to the reporting of the 2007 $12.7 billion loss report of the automaker. "(It was a) sad day today, lots of people I knew left," one worker said. "Many of the engineering offices look like Swiss cheese with all of the empty cubicles that have opened up."

Ford spokeswoman Becky Sanch acknowledged the timing was less than ideal. "There's no ideal time to separate for our employees. Today's announcements were driven by SEC disclosure requirements," Sanch said. "Regarding the overall pay, the company has always said it is dedicated to providing employees with competitive pay and long-term incentives," she further notes. The announcements were critical and demanded from the company. No quantity of force and efficiency from EBC Active Brakes Direct could prevent the revelation. Timing is no moment because it is not one of the opportunities afforded the company.

Mulally's bonus is part of a compensation package potentially worth more than $35 million for 2006 and this includes one-time hiring bonuses. The $6 million stock option grant is $1 million more than the baseline bonus promised by the board when he was hired last fall. The bonus comes in the form of stock options and is payable over the next three years.

Ford is now preparing to enter negotiations with United Auto Workers (UAW) and is anticipated to ask union workers to accept sacrifices to help the company rebound. UAW President Ron Gettelfinger has been highly critical of executive bonuses proposed by bankrupt Delphi Corp. according to analyst Bradley Rubin of BNP Paribas, Wall Street is unlikely to care much either way. "What's a million? Plus or minus a million dollars is not going to determine if Ford succeeds or fails," Rubin said. "You've got to pay the guy for the risks he's taking."

Rubin added that Mulally quit his job as the CEO of Boeing Co., a commercial aircraft division, to come and rescue the ailing Ford. The transfer was made at a time when the company has archrival Airbus SAS against the ropes.

Ford's board also changed the performance-based bonus plan for its senior executives. This is to reflect the "one plan, one team" approach favored by the new CEO. The plan will base executive bonuses on the same metrics as other salaried workers. Nevertheless, since the current plan was already part of executive contracts, the company agreed to buy them out with a one-time cash payment.

The company did not reveal the actual quantity involved in the buy out transaction. Their new bonuses for the senior executives, which can complete eight times their base salary depending on how shut they come to assembly the new goals, will be deducted by the quantity of that payment.

Ford said the new bonus plan will be more consistent and allow each white-collar worker to be judged by the same standard. The new bonuses will be paid in equal shares of stock options and restricted stock units.

original by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Mazda2-based Subcompact Coming to U.s

The Ford Motor Co. announced to its employees that it is developing a much-awaited new subcompact car for the United States and other markets. The subcompact will be based on the new Mazda2.

Mark Fields, Ford's President for the Americas, told employees about the new subcompact car during his weekly Webcast. Unlike its rivals in the industry, Ford does not produce a subcompact car for the U.S. market. However, after the apparent shift of the auto market to small and fuel-efficient cars, Ford realized the importance of such cars to both the survival and standing of the company.

Compacts and subcompact fuel-efficient cars like the Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris and the Honda Fit have eventually become crucial vehicles in the industry. These vehicles are particularly designed to meet the desires of young generation drivers. Nowadays, young purchasers go for vehicles that could sustain their active and feisty lifestyle. There is growing number of young drivers hence automakers are considering the types of vehicles they prefer to acquire.

The young drivers market desires cool and hip cars that are also high-performing and fuel-efficient. The fabricate of the mentioned cars does not only require the integration of EBC Greenstuff, powerful engines, catchy car accessories, sophisticated amenities, and enhanced auto parts - these parts accessories must particularly cater to young drivers' needs and demands. Prices for the said cars are deemed volatile as of the present.

When asked about the internal announcement made by Fields, a Ford spokeswoman declined to comment. The news comes as Alan Mulally, the Ford CEO, visited Japan to meet with executives of the Mazda Motor Corp. The latter is controlled by Ford. "I fully expect the deep ties between Ford and Mazda to extend into the future and become even stronger," Mulally said in a news release.

It was earlier reported that Mazda is working on a new subcompact vehicle platform for the Mazda2. The said car is said to be the basis for the next-generation Ford subcompact in Europe. The new subcompact will be Ford's first subcompact sold in the United States since 1997.

The Mazda2 will be unveiled next week at the Geneva Motor Show. The car is based on the Demio which is a tall station wagon or small minivan which debuted in 1996. Analyst Jim Hall of AutoPacific Inc. in Southfield, who has seen the Mazda2, said it should supply a solid foundation for the Ford subcompact. "It's one of those small cars that looks more expensive than it probably it is," Hall said. "That's something you in truth want in small cars."

Hall added that the new model will be Ford's "global B-car," referring to the industry designation for such small, fuel-efficient vehicles. "It's the best strategy. Doing a global B-car is in truth smart, because it will be a low-volume car in the United States and you in truth need big volumes on a vehicle like this to keep costs down. In the U.S., price and fuel economy will be the predominant factors," adds Hall.

Fields also announced that work on the Ford version is already under way, with Ford of Europe taking the lead. He said the Blue Oval model will be sold in Europe, Asia, South America and North America, but stressed that the subcompact is not a "world car." Instead, the vehicle will be tailored to meet the unique needs of each market. While Fields gave no time frame for the car's arrival in U.S. showrooms, Hall predicted the subcompact will probably reach in showrooms in two years.

A source familiar to the subcompact project said Ford intends to produce the car in, but said that may change. The company deliberate to expand one of its Mexican plants to accommodate the new model. However, it can no longer afford such a major expense so it is depending on Mazda engineering to boost its forthcoming lineup.


original by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Compact Hybrid Or Roomy Big Engine

There is a lot to compromise and consider when buying a hybrid car. A hybrid can cost $2,000 to $10,000 more than a comparable conventional vehicle. It is well known that to help with this initial cost, and to encourage people to buy hybrids, the Government offers incentives and tax breaks. There are standards for which hybrid cars have to qualify just for you to get a tax deduction including averaging at least 45 miles per gallon and complying with higher emission standards. If you are concerned about these costs and getting a tax break you in truth do have to look into this. Not all hybrid auto's meet these standards and the tax break vary's from state to sate.

Preliminary research has shown that hybrid drivers make fewer insurance claims. That is being reflected in insurance premiums .A quick phone call to your insurance agency can notify you about these costs.

On another note,Consumer advocate testing has shown that hybrid sa vings in fuel economy generally fails to offset the additional purchase price. Isn't that the number one reason why most people want to buy a hybrid.

Having a quiet engine is a cool feature, until someone walks backside you as your backing because they can't hear your engine running. Currently hybrids don't come with alot options. Regular options are popular and expected,like lighted vanity mirrors,more trunk space,power windows and rear window wipers.

Manufacturers, like Toyota, Honda and Ford, must feel confident about their cars because they offer up to 8 and 10 year warranties on hybrid-specific components.

Facts to consider are that green cars use more energy to produce, are harder to dispose of, their fuel economy claims have been doubted and the higher costs of buying and maintaining one are real.

Automobile sales dictate that we like our high powered cars with lots of options. Hybrids have a futuristic look and seem to be small. Hybrid sales denote that we are not ready to give in to high gas prices and compromise to the smaller,less powerful green cars.

Everyone likes the idea of hybrid cars,taking care of the environment and saving money. Todays Hybrid cars don't appear to fit that scenario. Today's drivers are not all that excited about making the many compromises to drive a hybrid automobile.

original by Jeff Moore
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Author info: For more information on fuel savings gadgets for your car visit http://www.somegassaver.com

Ten Quick Facts About Lpg Conversions

Fuel savings:

LPG offers enormous financial savings when compared with petrol, there is no denying this fact. However, LPG as fuel is not as efficient as petrol in terms of miles per gallon, so the best way to calculate savings is to estimate the cost of driving 1000 miles on petrol compared with 1000 miles on LGP fuel.

Fuel saving for drivers of commercial vehicles can be astronomical . A commercial vehicle with an annual mileage of 50,000 miles can expect annual fuel costs of £6,500 (petrol) or £5,356 (diesel). The average cost to cover the same number of miles with LPG is just £3,744.

Costs no more for insurance:

Many motorists believe that vehicles with LPG conversions will more expensive to insure. However, a survey carried out by the LPG Association (LPGA), essentially showed that this isn't the case. The top 20 insurance companies all said they insure a LPG converted car so long as the conversion had been carried out by an LPG approved installer. Only two insurers advised they would charge an additional premium.

LPG is substantially safer than petrol or diesel:

According to the LPG Association (LPGA), the gas is substantially safer to use than petrol or diesel. This is chiefly due to the fact that the fuel is stored in a robust fuel tank, which is tested to rigorous standards. Also, in the case of an accident, LPG tanks shut down the gas supply automatically.

It has never been easier to fill up:

There are now well over 1,300 LPG stations in the UK. LPG pumps are pretty much the same as old-fashioned petrol pumps and all LPG stations are quite similar in the way they do things. Most LPG pumps have clear diagrams to help on your first visit and it's impossible to put diesel or petrol in your LPG tank by mistake.

LPG is popular worldwide:

Travelling with an LPG vehicle is a dream; you can accomplish nearly double the mileage for the same cost as a petrol vehicle can. LPG is readily available in Europe, notwithstanding it is more commonly known as Autogas or GPL.

LPG is also extremely popular in The Netherlands, Serbia, Italy, Poland, Australia, Korea and Hong Kong. The former Soviet republic of Armenia may, however, be the world leader in autogas use.

Reduced maintenance levels:

Owners of cars with LPG conversions experience an overall discount in engine wear and LPG is clean burning and contains no carbon or lead deposits. It also reduces maintenance costs on valves, spark plugs, pistons and rings .

Government grants:

Whilst the Government continues to reduce duty on eco friendly alternative fuels and offer Congestion Charge exemption they are also offering grants to car owners, fleets and businesses which consider LPG conversions or other environmentally friendly alternative f uels.

You can buy or convert:

If you have a relatively new petrol car or light commercial vehicle, or even a black cab that needs a new engine, then you should choose a LPG conversions. If you have a diesel car or van, or an older petrol car or light commercial vehicle that is on its last legs then the reply is not to convert to LPG but to buy a new LPG vehicle.

No loss of performance:

Many car owners believe that cars with LPG conversions have a lower performance - this is a common misconception. The truth is that if there is any change in performance from LPG it will be negligible and most drivers would be unlikely to detect the difference.

Environment:

Automotive fuels are constantly taking the blame and criticism from environmentalists as the main cause of poor air quality conditions in the UK. Automotive vehicles emit a mixture of harmful gases including Sulphur Dioxide Hydrocarbons, Micro par ticulates and Nitric Oxides to name but a few.

Poor air quality, due to high levels of poisonous emissions, imposes social costs that are chiefly associated with health care costs. Health problems resulting from these emissions include Congestive heart failure, Respiratory problems and Bronchitis, which all relate to poor air quality.

According to research carried out by the Norfolk County Council, LPG cars produce significantly less emissions. Individuals and organisations that adopt the environmentally-friendly alternative automotive fuels and technologies are not only generating cost savings for themselves but also for the larger society.

by Simon OShea
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Author info: For more information about LPG Conversions in the UK. Fuelture Ltd. works closely with performance engine specialists Nicholson McLaren Engines Ltd. to deliver LPG Conversions.

Performance Chip: Tweaking the Mercedes Power Train

German automaker Mercedes-Benz is among the major movers in the car industry. Backed by its campaign in the race circuit, from the Paris to Rouen tour circa 1890 to the Formula One series, Mercedes-Benz is often associated with the vaunted supercars that have since come out of its production shop. Among these are the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, which stands for "super light racing," and the 1996 Mercedes-Benz model that the company has developed with car modification expert RENNTech, billed as the world's fastest sedan. But, since Mercedes-Benz has diverse markets, even its marquee models are rolled out of the shop set up for average driver expectations and standard driving conditions.

Since the race specs of the Mercedes-Benz have little use in typical drive applications, the car's engine is tuned for street use. However, this does not mean that Mercedes-Benz engines are letdowns. In most cases, the engine is simply re-tuned. Engine tuning is the process of streamlining engine operations toward its maximum power output. It generally involves the delivery of air and fuel into the combustion chamber, and the timing of the spark that lights up the burn material. As both of these engine operations are directed by the Mercedes-Benz electronic control unit, tweaking the delivery and spark timing systems simply involves the replacement of the stock fitted ECU chip.

The ECU chip contains the engine's lookup tables, which keeps the required engine operation input in a given drive application. When you rev up the Mercedes-Benz, the car's ECU measure the values gathered by a network of car sensors, like the oxygen sensor, air mass meter, etc. The ECU chip then feeds the ECU with information on the appropriate fuel injection rate based on these values. By replacing the ECU chip with a performance chip, the lookup tables can be optimized to extract the maximum amount of horsepower and torque from the Mercedes-Benz.

The performance chip equips the Mercedes-Benz with a streamlined engine operation. During full throttle drives, for example, the performance chip increases fuel injection in response to the rush of air in the cold air intake system. Since an air to fuel mixture follows a set ratio, a rush of air can disarm the power production. More air consequently can accommodate more amount of fuel. The performance chip tunes the lookup tables in the ECU toward increased production output.

In addition, the spark timing may also be altered to harness more horsepower. A spark that is generated during an appropriate time boosts power production and prevents fuel waste. Engine misfire, on the other hand, doesn't just waste fuel: it may also result in engine damage, like busted HT leads, fume buildup in the exhaust system, etc. Unlike car manufacturers, who place emphasis on issues like reliability, mileage and emissions control, most manufacturers of performance chips utilize more aggressive settings in the fuel and spark timing maps of their performance chips to further tweak the engine.

The Mercedes performance chip is a plug-and-operate part of an ECU. It requires no car modifications, which often include the tedious task of changing carburetor jets and distribution curves.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Brake Hose: Nerve Line of Mercedes Brakes

The brake system is the chief failsafe fitted on Mercedes-Benz cars. It retards the motion of the car when the brake pedal is depressed. Chief part of the Mercedes-Benz brake system is the friction brake assembly, composed of a disc and a pair of brake pads on a disc brake assembly, or a drum and brake shoes on a drum brake assembly. The Mercedes-Benz friction brakes use the traditional clamp-style method of stopping the vehicle, and take the brunt of the Mercedes-Benz brake operation.

As in most assemblies, it is kept well oiled to maintain the parts up to specs. The Mercedes-Benz friction brakes are supplemented by a hydraulic brake assembly. Composed of a brake master cylinder, brake wheel cylinders, metering valve, proportioning valve, pressure differential switch, brake fluid tank, and a network of brakes hoses, the Mercedes-Benz hydraulic brakes convert brake pedal input hydraulically, which is then used to operate the brake system.

At the center of the Mercedes-Benz hydraulic brakes assembly is the master cylinder. It is a piston-operated pump that facilitates the flow of brake fluid from the brake fluid tank to the brake hoses, and into the wheels. The tank is fitted with a sensor that light up a warning when brake fluid runs low. The system has provision parts like the proportioning and metering valves and pressure differential switch that streamlines the pressure in the brake fluid flow.

When the brake pedal is depressed, the master cylinder pistons push to a linkage and draw in ambient air, pressuring the cylinder. The amount of pressure that the master cylinder draws in is proportional to the foot pressure applied on the brake pedal. The pressure accumulated is used to pump the hydraulic fluid into the supply line of brake hoses. The pressurized hydraulic fluid, when it reaches the friction brake assembly fitted on each wheel, then streamlines the friction brake operation.

As a safeguard against supply interruption, the hydraulic brakes assembly of the Mercedes-Benz has two independent circuits, each circuit composed of a brake hose network supplying the wheels in pairs. If one circuit leaks out hydraulic fluid, the car unavoidably loses braking power. In such eventuality, the two-circuit setup of the Mercedes-Benz hydraulic brakes isolates one circuit from the leak of the other so that the brake system still has supply of hydraulic fluid. Hydraulic fluid leak happens when the brake hose gets brittle from the pressurized fluid it carries within the brake system. Since the brake hose is the nerve line of the hydraulic brake assembly, brake hoses are often replaced regularly.

Made up of flexible, heavy-duty rubber and fitted with a metal mounting end, the Mercedes brake hose runs from under the hood to all four corners of the car. On the average, the hydraulic brake assembly of a Mercedes-Benz delivers up to 1,000 pounds per square inch of pressure so that, operationally, brake hoses are exposed to high-pressure fluid flow. They are considered maintenance items in the Mercedes-Benz brake system, not unlike the brake pads and brake shoes that necessitates regular replacement.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

A Decisive Spark With the Mercedes Spark Plug Wires

A spark plug is an electrical device found in the cylinder head of an internal combustion engine like that of the Mercedes Benz. It supplies the electrical energy needed to ignite the air and fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, turning the mixture into working energy. The resulting energy, measured in horsepower, is then supplied from the engine to run the Mercedes Benz.

In order that the burn materials in the cylinder heads are ignited, the spark plug initially harnesses low-voltage electricity from a car battery. This low-voltage current is amplified into high-voltage electricity by the coils in the ignition system. Once converted, the high-voltage current passes through the spark plug wires and into the cylinder head.

Compared to typical wires, spark plug wires in the Mercedes Benz ignition system are built to have a lot of resistance: the higher the resistance, the less is the fluctuation in the electric current transmission. When the ignition system converts low-voltage electricity into high-voltage current, radio static is produced and can affect the flow of current on the spark plug wires. Fluctuations in the current delivery may result in insufficient spark and burn material waste.

Spark plug wires resistance often dictates the power of a spark plug to ignite the burn materials. Standard spark plug wires generally have a resistance of about 10,000 to 15,000 ohms per foot of length. Mercedes Benz spark plug wires resistance higher than the given range restricts the electricity flow, which results to engine underperformance.

Since high-voltage electricity is chronically pumped into the spark plug wires, the risk of power surges depends on the wire designs fitted on the Mercedes Benz. The spark plug wires are connected to the spark plugs and distributor or ignition coils. To isolate the electric current flow on the wires from other engine operations, spark plug wires are insulated internally. The spark plug wires are coated in a silicone billet to protect the wires from deterioration caused by ignition system oil and gunk and the heat byproduct of combustion.

Added and important features in spark plug wires are the boots and connectors that affix the wires in the ignition system. In most cases the Mercedes Benz ignition system uses spark plug wires with silicone boots and bolt-on connectors. Since spark plug wires handle high-voltage currents, they are fitted snugly in the ignition system to help achieve a precision spark delivery.

However, the longer the Mercedes spark plug wires go in service, the more brittle their insulation gets. Internally, the core of the wires is at risk of cracking up from the high-voltage electricity that it handles. The resulting breakdown in the spark plug wires means the electricity will be redirected elsewhere, causing engine misfiring, fouled spark plugs, and rough running. Unfortunately, spark plug wire problems can be hard to detect since wire insulation and core problems are hidden below the wire surface.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

3-wheel Bonning Roadster: Mean and Green

A unique Aussie roadster changes the notion that green cars could not be created to be mean. The 3-wheel Bonning Roadster is aimed at proving that mean and green could go together and that being an environment-friendly car does not hinder having a high performance.

The Bonning Roadster delivers supercar performance and true sports car character in a compact economy car. The car is engineered to consume a miserly amount of gasoline and other alternative fuels like hydrogen and methanol derived from household waste.

The roadster weighs 400 kilograms and that is about half of the weight of the smallest hatchback. The car boasts remarkable acceleration of 90 kW and around 200 km/h top speed. The Bonning Roadster is penned by Brad Bonning, Queensland's automotive designer and oil painter. Bonning has developed the car from a pedal-powered car he had created for driver training.

The factor that influenced the roadster's outstanding performance and handling is its weight. Bonning used a combination of an aluminium two-seater body and a commanding, motorcycle-derived engine to produce a vehicle that weighs a little more than a large motorcycle.

However, to some critics, Bonning's most notable feature is not its fuel or its performance but its attention-grabbing minimalist bodywork. An auto critic said, "The styling and the chassis engineering are the product of Bonning's intuitive engineering and fabrication skills, and the unpainted aluminium panels are testament to his high standards."

Detailed refinements have been entertained by Bonning since he first turned a wheel a bit over a year ago, and the prototype is being fitted with lights and other equipment needed for registration as a road car. The 3-Wheel Bonning Roadster was showcased at the Melbourne Motor Show in Australia. The roadster was also a stunner at the Motor Show Cavalcade at Federation Square which was held on 28 February.

A roadster is a two-seat, open car usually without the side windows. At present, the word is often used to describe a two-seat convertible without fixed window frames and is often used to describe a light-weight sports car. The roadster is generally equipped with high-performing engines complemented by EBC Redstuff or other powerful auto parts to boost efficiency. Car purchasers in the present milieu go for comfy, convenient and fun to drive vehicles. When it comes to purchasing roadsters, enthusiasts wanted a purebred driving machine that is made to race and not to cruise.

The recent roadster trend clearly emphasizes the new direction that auto purchasers are taking. This is why automakers are stressing weight when it comes to the manufacture of roadsters. Some roadsters, to achieve utmost performance, have to take a good diet to slash extra pounds. Automakers are now reducing features of roadsters which include power steering, navigation system and automatic climate control to strip excess fats off the car.

One of the famed manufacturers of roadsters is Mercedes. The automaker is now formulating a head-zone heating system. Lorinser, also a popular manufacturer, has earlier introduced its front windshield spoiler for the SL that deflects air stream and reduces possibly annoying air whirls inside the roadster. According to critics, these features dilute the roadster driving experience by taking away some of the greatest, most admired and most respected qualities of roadsters. They added that some of the automakers have completely unable to leave things as original and uncompromising as they were intended once. This fact leaves a note of vigilance to the purchasers. They have to select according to their needs and not to succumb to anything less.

by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

New Car Reliability Predicted by Consumer Reports

One of the attributes of a car that is important to car buyers is its reliability. That is why a brand's reputation for reliability goes a long way in promoting, marketing and selling their cars. And to aid consumers in choosing the most reliable car in the market, Consumer Reports recently conducted a study on the dependability of new cars for the 2007 model year. The result of their study shows that last year's leader, Lexus, have slipped and Toyota now has the top spot.

Lexus, the Toyota Motor Corporation's luxury brand, occupied the first place in last year's study. This year though, the brand slipped to fifth place. This shows that even luxury brands are also prone to succumb to malfunctions. The reason for the slide by Lexus is the fact that GS models only received average ratings in terms of their reliability.

Aside from the fact that the GS models from Lexus only received average ratings, other new cars in their lineup has received satisfactory ratings though. In fact, the study did say that the most reliable car is from Lexus. Talk about irony.

Toyota is now the most reliable brand in the world and it sure is a distinction that could only help them in their quest to be the world's largest automobile manufacturer. Once again, Toyota leads the way for Asian brands in the study. The top five slots in the study are occupied by Asian brands which say a lot about the dedication of these car makers in the production of dependable vehicles. Honda, another Japanese car manufacturer, is the second most reliable brand according to the study. This is the second straight year that Honda managed to cling to that spot. Helping the brand achieve this feat are the cars in their lineup like the compact Fit and the very popular Civic.

Another Toyota brand, this time, the Scion, takes the third spot. The brand aimed at the younger generation buyers managed to get good reliability ratings for the vehicles in their lineup that are composed of boxy and stylish vehicles. Lexus, last year's leader, fell to the fifth place due to the aforementioned reason. Since the top five spots are occupied by brands made by Toyota and Honda, that leaves the fourth place to Honda's luxury brand, Acura.

The top five reliable brands have come from Asia but it seems that domestic brands are closing in on the gap and may in no time enter the top ten. So far, only Mercury is the domestic brand that managed to land a spot in the top ten most reliable vehicle brands.

Other US based brands have considerably increased their reputation in terms of reliability. Lincoln has shown the biggest improvement among all other domestic brands. It leapt to the thirteenth place from last year's 30th spot. GMC, another American brand, made significant improvements in terms of dependability. From last year's 25th spot, it is now the 14th most reliable brand. The reason for the jump in the standing of GMC is favorable reliability rating for their Yukon SUV. Ford, on the other hand, remains unchanged in its 16th spot as unchanged as the reliability of a Nissan cold air intake component. Buick and Chevrolet also made slight improvements over last year's ratings. But not all domestic brands have improved their standing. Jeep, even though touted to produce "rugged off-road" vehicles, slid to 32nd place from last year's 19th place standing.

As far as European brands are concerned, Audi made good improvements while most lag behind the competition. The reason is below average ratings of reliability of European cars. Mercedes-Benz slid four positions to take the place of Porsche in the last spot.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

US Car Makers Has Mixed Performance on Consumer Reports Tests

Consumer Reports recently disclosed the results of their study that focused on predicting the reliability of new vehicles for the 2007 model year. Once again, Asian car makers fared well in terms of reliability and the European brands excelled in performance. Meanwhile, US brands has received a mixed performance on the tests and studies conducted by the leading information source for consumer products.

The three big car makers in the US fared not so well. But they did not do so badly either. Ford, for example, has a good number of vehicles which garnered good reliability ratings. This fact should help Ford finish higher in the leader board of the most reliable brands in the market. But about a quarter of their vehicles received below average ratings. The end result is that Ford remained unchanged and took position in the 16th place.

General Motors, currently the biggest automobile manufacturer, also has reliable vehicles produced. The brand received average or better ratings just like the Yukon SUV from GMC. But, just like Ford, about a third of their vehicles did not fare so well in the reliability study conducted by Consumer Reports.

Chrysler, another American car maker has the lowest average test score among the big three car manufacturers which are based in the US.

In the said study, Consumer Reports found out something that will be good for the reputation of Ford Motor Company and General Motors. Engineers who tested the different cars considered in the study found out that some recent models from the two aforementioned US car makers are serious competition to Japanese and European brands. The Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and the Cadillac CTS are cited as some of the American models which are at par with their Japanese or European counterparts.

The most notable cause of the below average rating of American made vehicles are in terms of reliability, fuel economy, braking and handling. All of these attributes are what Asian and European car makers excel at. Reliability and fuel economy are the strongest selling points of Asian brands. The Toyota Prius hybrid electric vehicle is one of the main reasons for the popularity of Asian brands when it comes to fuel economy. European brands, on the other hand, are known for their superiority in performance.

General Motors has 42 models considered by Consumer Reports in their study. Of that number, a handful performed great during the tests conducted by CR. The Chevrolet Avalanche and the renowned Corvette performed so well that they were almost at the top of their class. But the better-than-average ratings garnered by these models are countered by lackluster performance of many GM models which did the American car manufacturer no good at all. Outdated minivans and compact pick up trucks are some of the GM models which performed poorly on the tests CR performed on them. GM vehicles that have suffered low ratings are due to the fact that their performance in braking and handling is below par. Fuel economy is also an issue that GM needs to address in order for their vehicles to improve.

As for Ford, their lineup of vehicles showed good handling capability and ride comfort. The majority of their trucks and SUVs also received praise for their adequate space and utility provided. Their problem is in braking, refinement and fuel economy. It seems that American brands have a problem with fuel economy that is why aftermarket parts are used widely to improve a vehicle's fuel efficiency, just like the Plymouth cold air intake system.

Chrysler has a lot of work to do to improve their vehicle's performance. Noisy engines, bad visibility and cheap interior are what they need to work on still.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Thursday, March 1, 2007

Mgf is a Fun Sports Car!

By Mike Cain

The MGF, designed and produced by Rover, is a small mid-engined sports car, with a soft top roof and plenty of boot space. Despite this, it is not renowned for its practicality, but if that is what you are looking for then you are missing the point of the MGF - it is intended to be fun to drive and something of a head turner. The driving position is quite low to the ground, which means when the top is down you get a unique driving experience, it is ideal for the summer months. It grips the road well and has good balance when driving, which is just as well with a 0-60 time of just 8.5 seconds. It responds immediately to the slightest touch on either the accelerator or the break, roaring into life with a great burst of energy, yet slowing quickly without much effort.

However, the slightly cramped cabin (especially when the roof is up) and hard body styling makes for an uncomfortable time when taking in long journeys or negotiating bumpy roads and sharp corners. The plastic rear windscreen means is liable to cloud up, and can become creased and folded where the roof has been put up/down many times. Frequent problems have also been reported with head gaskets on the older models, and this is a common cause of breakdowns.

Second hand values have stayed quite strong, due to Rover restricting the supply, and cars can be picked up from around £3,500 for a 1995 model and upwards, and it proves relatively cheap to run. Fuel consumption is good, at around 38.4 mpg, and with an insurance group of 9/10 cover is cheap as well.

Production is due to begin once more in 2008, courtesy of Nanjing Automobile, at the old Longbridge plant in West Midlands, as well as in their yet to be completed Chinese factory. The MGF is expected to go back on sale in 2009.

All in all the MGF is a fun sports car, with great style and personality, suitably cosy and enjoyable during the winter, and a fast, thrilling ride in the summer sun.
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by Adrian Lawrence
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Author info: Adrian is the webmaster at discount domains, one of the UK's leading registration services

Mercedes-benz Cl Luxury Coupe

Everything about the CL luxury coupe screams Mercedes-Benz starting from its styling elements that dates back to the 50s up to the additional cutting-edge safety and comfort features---it simply cannot be denied that it's a Mercedes. The CL luxury coupe is offered in two engine choices: the 5.5-litre (285kW, 530Nm) CL500 version and the super mighty 6.3-litre CL63 AMG (386kW and 630Nm). Both models are also fitted with Mercedes' 7 G-tronic automatic transmission linked to the Direct Select gearshift located on the steering column. Three shift modes are also offered: comfort, manual, and sport. There are also buttons located behind the steering wheel which can be used for manual shifting.

In the manual mode the electronics will follow the traditional or normal gear selection instructions with the driver doing the gear shifting but with the automatic as the word suggest would just shift to the next gear once the rev limit is reached. There are also other modes wherein the management system will override inputs at its discretion. Those modes also alter the gearbox characteristics same with the suspension damping and springing settings.

The CL500 possess quality handling capabilities in all modes however the manual mode was by far the best when it comes to uneven terrains since the gear adapts to the various driving pressures especially when sudden gear shifting are required. Likewise, the CL's Active Body Control suspension system alters the damping to conform to the road condition while lowering the body by up to 10mm when speed is over 100km/h are detected. The CL500 can produce 285 kW of power which may be considered by most drivers as stimulating but not that thrilling.

There are also buttons found all over the cabin to adjust all the gadgets and gizmos starting from the television to the rearward-looking camera up to the retracting sunshield. All these are manipulated by a simple push of a button. Although the buttons can be confusing at times but with a little practice after a few minutes, one would be able to know where to look for what function and eventually it turns into a habit and everything becomes easy.

The CL luxury coupe is equipped with an item that is similar to the BMW's i-Drive. It is fitted with navigation screens and on-board settings. Its other features include BAS Plus and the new Pre-Safe Brake system which are part of the Distronic Plus equipment package offered as an option for R17 200. The system helps to apply partial braking once it detects that an accident is about to happen. Mercedes-Benz has always taken the subject of safety in their vehicles seriously and for their CL flagship range they will ensure that their customers are given the highest level of safety features possible. As a fact, Mercedes-Benz will equip the CL luxury coupe range with a night view assist offered as an option for the R18 000 CL. There will also be two additional, infrared headlamps that provide added visibility of up to 200m.

The intelligent lightning that the CL luxury has controls the illumination functions to adapt to the condition of the road and the weather. The new CL was also made larger than before with a length of 5 meters, a width of 1.8 meters and a height of 20mm which gives passengers with ample headroom. It also has a large boot with full-size alloy spare wheel which are under the sultry rear end making it even more stylish. The interior is furnished with a luxurious array of wood trim combined with soft leather upholstery. The Mobilodrive maintenance plan which provides 60 000 km is standard for all its Mercedes vehicles.

And speaking of luxury cars did you know that Mercedes-Benz has created E-class which is the automaker's mid-size luxury car/ executive car sold by DaimlerChrysler. The E-class is available with various four, six and eight cylinder petroleum gasoline and diesel engines. The E-class first appeared in the 1950s and became the best-selling model worldwide. It is used for luxury or executive transport and in some countries such as Germany, Singapore, and Portugal the E-class is utilized as taxis or police interceptor vehicle.

The E-class range is comprised of the 400E, 300E, W124, 500E, W123, W120, W110, W20, W212 and more which are launch on separate years. The 400E and 500E went into production on August 6, 1991 as 1992 models. Unfortunately the production of the 500E ended on June 24, 1994. In support of its E-Class DaimlerChrysler has launched quality lines of auto parts suitable for the E-class like for instance the Mercedes-Benz 400E parts and Mercedes 300E parts among others. The competitions of the E-class are the following: Acura RL, Alfa Romeo 166, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Cadillac STS, Infiniti M, Jaguar S-Type, Lexus GS, Saab 9-5 and the Volvo S80.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Mercedes-benz: Luxury Plus Fuel Economy

In the news: Mercedes-Benz has recently announced that approximately more than 38 percent of all new Mercedes cars sold in Europe consume fewer than 6.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. And that's not all, one in every five Mercedes-Benz cars offer a fuel consumption of no more than 5 liters per 100 kilometers. DaimlerChrysler's Mercedes currently offers a total of eleven passenger car models with average consumption ranging from 4.9 to 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers.

Last year, almost 34 percent of all Mercedes customers in Germany preferred new cars with a fuel consumption of below 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers. While an approximate of 18 percent German customers have chosen models with no more than 5 liters per 100 kilometers. Mercedes-Benz so far is the only premium brand to provide customers with such an extensive range of low-consumption models, including compact cars, saloons, sport tourers, and coupes.

>From among the Mercedes range the A160 CDI is the most fuel-efficient Mercedes model of all, with a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 to 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers depending on the tire size. Mercedes-Benz compact car boast an output of 60kW/82 hp and capable of driving 1100 kilometers on a single tank of fuel (54 liters). The executive models of Mercedes-Benz such as the E 200 CDI and the E 220 CDI offer a fuel consumption of about 6 liters per 100 kilometers. The four-cylinder saloons with a recorded output of 100 kW/136 hp and 125 kW/170 hp consume only about 6.3 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers but if on a full tank meaning 65 liters it can cover an extra 1000 kilometers. Likewise, the optional 80 liter fuel tank of the CDI saloons boosts its driving range to over 1250 kilometers which is similar to driving from Berlin to Florence.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is further reduced by 0.3 liters per 100 kilometers and in the New European Driving Cycle or NEDC the new C 200 CDI and C 200 CDI models marked a fuel consumption of only 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers.

Here is the list of Mercedes-Benz cars with their corresponding output and fuel consumption:

• A 150- 70 kW/95hp; 6.2-6.7
• A 160 CDI- 60 kW/82hp; 4.9-5.2
• A 180 CDI- 80 kW/109 hp; 5.2-5.7
• A 200 CDI- 103 kW/140 hp; 5.4-5.7
• B 180 CDI- 80 kW/109 hp; 5.6-5.8
• C 200 CDI Saloon- 100 kW/136 hp; 6.1
• C 220 CDI Saloon 125 kW/170 hp; 6.1
• CLK 220 CDI Coupe- 110 kW/150 hp; 6.4-6.5
• E 200 CDI Saloon- 100 kW/136 hp; 6.3
• E 220 CDI Saloon- 125 kW/170 hp; 6.3

In the past years, Mercedes-Benz have not always made fuel consumption as their topmost priority but due to the increasing demand for fuel efficient vehicles they decided to finally joined the bandwagon. The main focus of Mercedes-Benz in the past is creating luxury vehicles that are loaded with comfort features although that policy is still employed for its new models but the fuel economy has become an important part of the whole car building equation.

One of the popular models produced by Mercedes-Benz is its SL-Class Luxury series. The SL means "Sport Light" or in German Sport Leicht. The SL-Class range is comprised of the following: 350SL, 450 SL, 280 SL, 380 SL, 500 SL, 300 SL, 300 SL-24, 420 SL and 560 SL. ---these are just some of the very first range of SL-Class model produced until 1989. Further advancement and modification were done on the SL-Class. Production of auto parts of the first generation of SL-Class like the Mercedes 450SL parts are still continued to provide avid SL-class owners with the quality Mercedes 450SL part that they need.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Mercedes 400e: One Remarkable Sedan

Despite the new models that Mercedes-Benz is developing and introducing, some models are simply remarkable that they continuously evolve into a much better vehicle. An example of which is the Mercedes 400E which was introduced in the year 1992 as the first E-class V8. But two years later the name was change to E420. It was also given some trim changes just to justify the change of name. The production of the 400E/E420 cars covers period from 1992 to 1995 model years with some 15,425 cars sold in the United States at that time. The 400E/E420 has features that appeal to mid-50s customers who enjoy the V8 power and all the comfort that comes with the E-class.

The 400E sedan has a weight of 3,660 lb and can travel 60 miles per hour in a matter of seven seconds. It is also capable of traveling 150+ mph all day long and yet delivers a mileage figure that is almost on par with its 6-cylinder siblings. The transmission, braking upgrades, and suspension provide the extra power while the tire size remained the same at 195/65/15. The Mercedes 400E is known for its 2.24 rear differential hampered performance off the line but what many do not know that performance on the highway is the true expertise of this model. The mixture of lots of smooth torque together with the tall gearing provides the acceleration feel of a jet aircraft that is about to takeoff. The 400E just like the rest of the luxury vehicles that Mercedes has is equipped with common options like the ASR traction control, trunk mounted CD changer, heated front seats, integrated cellular phone, and a rear window sunshade.

The Mercedes 400E performance parts include the 4.2 liter M119.975 engine which has replaced the 4196cc or 256.1 cubic inches engine. The new 4.2 liter M119.975 engine delivers 275 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 295 lb-ft of potent torque at 3900 rpm. The variable valve timing on the intake cams as well as the long intake runners enables the engine to rev up 90% of peak torque not lower than 1500rpm. Other technical highlights of the 400E includes its 32 valve DOHC V8 which comprised of an aluminum alloy block and heads designed for weight reduction, LH sequential multiport fuel injection, silicon crystal cylinder liners to lessen friction and antiknock control---All these are managed by a Control Area Network data management system. The EPA fuel figure rate of the 400E is 18mpg for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving. Each of the Merce des 400E part utilized for the 3,660 lb sedan is tested for quality and performance.

The 400E offers more power improvements compared to the previous 300E and E320 cars. The car is so powerful that drivers are pinned to the seat whenever upper rev changes. That's the punch of the 400E. Similarly, the brakes were also improved and are par with many sports cars. Its only drawback is that it lacks the nimble and tossable feel of the previous 300E which has been lost in the V8 performance.

In addition the handling limits of the V8 has easily match those of the earlier cars unfortunately the increased in the weight of the 400E has somewhat numbed the feel of earlier models.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Brake Booster: Making Brake Application Less Hard

The Mercedes-Benz brake system is composed of two brake assemblies: hydraulic and friction brakes. The friction brake assembly sits right smack on brake operation flash points, while the hydraulic brake parts are located adjacent to the engine—where they are on high ground—to provide supplemental braking and enhance the friction brakes.

On a Mercedes-Benz disc brake set, friction brakes consist of a rotor/disc and a pair of brake pads, while on a drum brake assembly a drum takes up the place of the disc and the brake shoes that of the brake pads. Friction brakes use the traditional clamp-style method: a piston fitted with brake shoes, or a caliper with brake pads, tightening on a rotor to retard the motion of the car.

Every time the caliper/piston grips the rotor, the rotational motion of the rotor turns into heat. Because of a potential heat buildup, friction brake parts are made of materials with high heat resistance. The brake pads, for example, are embedded with materials—commonly asbestos—which make the pads last long in the face of chronic heat present in the Mercedes-Benz brake assembly. The brake discs, on the other hand, are fitted with heat vents. The brake disc contact surface comes in either slotted or cross-drilled design, a structural feature that exhausts heat away from the brake assembly.

Friction brake parts inevitably succumb to heat, with its brake pads thinning out and/or the disc getting deformed on account of the friction. Unavoidably, they need to be replaced. In the event that the friction brake parts lose the up-to-specs brake power, the Mercedes-Benz brake system borrows time from its hydraulic brake assembly.

Composed of a network of brake hoses, brake booster, and hydraulic pumps, hydraulic brakes supply brake fluid in the Mercedes-Benz brake system. With the brake system well oiled, brake operation becomes less hard on the friction brake parts. Central to the Mercedes-Benz hydraulic brakes is the brake booster, typically the black canister that sits snug under the car hood. The Mercedes-Benz brake booster consists chiefly of a vacuum booster, linked to the master cylinder piston and the brake pedal by a push rod. In the event that the friction brake parts thin out, brake operation is compromised. In most cases, it shows up in the form of deep pressing on the brake pedal. The Mercedes-Benz brake booster eases brake application by providing the necessary brake assist.

Inside the vacuum booster, a diaphragm partitions the canister between the low-pressure vacuum and the high-pressure ambient air. A hose from the engine opens to a clever valve and supplies the vacuum to the booster. When the brake pedal is pressed, the rod cracks the valve open, allows ambient air to get into the canister and push the vacuum side of the diaphragm, and thrusts the rod on to the master cylinder piston. The master cylinder piston then engages the Mercedes-Benz brake system to retard the motion of the car.

As the brake pedal is released a one-way valve, the check valve, sucks the air out of the vacuum booster while trapping the vacuum inside. This is an important after-operation process in the Mercedes brake booster. It restores the vacuum inside the canister, allowing the rod to disengage from the master cylinder piston and free up the drive wheels.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Mercedes Strut Mount Holds Car Steady

Since a car's drive train like that of a Mercedes-Benz only has the wheels to prop it up on the ground, it relies on a network of steel braces and sway bars called the strut assembly to support the weight of the car. During cruise speed, the Mercedes-Benz strut assembly serves as catch framework where bounce from bumps is rerouted. Meanwhile, as the car hugs curves, bounce together with chassis flex and longitudinal compression get transmitted into the strut assembly. Every time bounce and chassis flex are redirected in the Mercedes-Benz struts, the cabin is spared from an otherwise uncomfortable ride.

In the case of chassis flex and longitudinal compression, a Mercedes-Benz is theoretically liable to roll off when cornering. But, because of its strut assembly design, chassis flex and compression is transmitted away from the cabin and into the STRUTS, maintaining the car's bearing on corners. The same is done to the weight of the vehicle and the bounce from bumps. This function of the strut assembly gives the description "passive" shock absorbers to the strut assembly. Compared to shock absorbers, however, the stress on the chassis produced by both drive applications are not absorbed but are rather transmitted down to the strut mounting points.

Mercedes-Benz struts are usually installed across the chassis and at the heart of the drive train, where it is on a high ground to function as chassis frame and support the car. These struts often sport rugged designs and can be used to improve on the upper suspension arms of the Mercedes-Benz. Due to the strain that strut assembly must absorb away from the chassis, they are held firmly by similarly heavy-duty strut mounts. The Mercedes strut mounts serve as pivot points for the strut assembly. For improved absorption of longitudinal compression, struts are lubricated at either ends.

In most cases, the front end of the Mercedes-Benz is equipped with a MacPherson type of struts. This assembly has rubber strut mounts with strut bearings and bushings in the center to provide mobility for steering. A MacPherson strut is also used on the rear end of the drive train if the Mercedes-Benz is capable of 4-wheel drive. Normally, a traditional strut assembly composed of strut tower braces and sway bars affixed to a chrome strut mount shaft is used on the read end of the drive train.

As the struts transmit force, strut mounts keep the assembly still. And as the strut assembly resists the chassis flex in the drive train and supports the Mercedes-Benz's sideways load, strut mounts can loose grip of a strut quickly. If a metallic under-chassis noise can be heard every time the Mercedes-Benz turns, it is a sign that the strut assembly has become loose on the strut mounts. Hard steering is another indication that the strut assembly may not be in a good condition to spare the chassis from compression. With a strut's heavy load and the regular pounding that it receives, it is critical that loose strut mounts are immediately addressed to ensure safe driving.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Brake Rotor: Key Part of Mercedes Brake System

Brake rotors are the rotating discs on the Mercedes-Benz disc brake system. They are mounted on the Mercedes Benz drive train and provide a clamping surface for the brake pads. When you step on the brake pedal, the foot pressure is transmitted hydraulically by the master cylinder to a push rod connected to the caliper-driven brake pads. Depending on the foot pressure input, the caliper then squeezes on the brake rotors and retards the motion of the car.

The disc brake system of the Mercedes Benz works in principle like the brakes on a bicycle. But, since cars need more braking power, the caliper in the disc brake assembly clamps on the rotor to apply restraint on the wheels instead of a caliper tightening on the wheel itself. Aside from improved braking power, the Mercedes Benz disc brake assembly spares the wheels from the resulting friction.

Operationally, the brake rotors are exposed to high heat condition. Most Mercedes Benz brake rotors are made of cast iron to withstand the heat and friction against the brake pads. But the chronic contact between the two makes them highly disposed to regular replacement and maintenance. Brake pads are one of the maintenance items in a Mercedes Benz that require periodic replacement, while brake rotors often have a long service life.

Replacement brake pad sets are categorized as per drive applications. Brake pads with harder and less aggressive compounds are designed for Mercedes Benz cars used in city driving. Using this kind of friction material on performance cars can result in brake fade. Race cars, or performance Mercedes Benz cars for that matter, are fitted with a brake pad set lined with soft and more aggressive friction material like asbestos, Aramid, etc. Driving style and preferences are often valid considerations when deciding on brake pad replacement.

Because most brake pads are equipped with aggressive friction compounds, brake rotors are periodically flipped to make rotor wear even. However, turning the brake rotors can reduce their ability to temper heat in the high-friction operating condition. Heat buildup between the brake rotors and the brake pads can "warp" or reshape the brake rotors, causing thickness variations. When this happens, you get a pedal pulsation, and sometimes, a jolt in the steering wheel. When the brake rotors get worn over time, they do not only get thin but lose the heat ventilations on their contact surface. This ventilation exhausts friction heat via the holes that are cross-drilled on the discs.

Aftermarket Mercedes Benz brake rotors can have fins or drills hollowed out of them that are meant to dissipate heat at greater amounts, preventing rotor warping and brake pad wear. These usually go to the front brake rotors, which carry more of the weight load of the car and are faced more frequently by hard braking operations.

There are also slotted discs. This type can be the most ventilated brake rotor. However, slotted discs are more appropriate for Mercedes Benz earmarked for racing and hard drive applications. The slots on the brake rotors, while reducing considerably the possibility of heat buildup, can wear out the brake pads easily. They are nonetheless reliable in preventing the brake pad material to stick on the discs and reduce the braking power of the assembly. When looking for Mercedes brake rotors, these design considerations can let you do away with the largest of requiring premature replacements.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Legislature Intends to Make Cars Kid-safe

A new legislation bill, if turned into law, could force automakers to install rear-view cameras and power windows that could automatically reverse. The proposal is aimed at avoiding accidents that have plagued the land for several centuries now.

The bill, known as the Cameron Gulbransen Kids and Cars Safety Act, was proposed by U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., and John Sununu, R-N.H. and it is named after a 2-year-old New York boy who was accidentally run over and killed in 2002 when his father backed his SUV out of his driveway.

"Nearly every other day, a child dies in the United States from a completely preventable tragedy -- backed over by a driver who could not see behind (the) vehicle, strangled in a power window or killed when an automobile inadvertently shifts into gear," said Clinton on the Senate floor. The bill "will help to ensure that America's cars (are) properly equipped to prevent these tragedies from happening."

In November 2005, a similar car safety bill was proposed. Unfortunately, it was not successfully passed through the usual means. Parents and critics alike concur to the idea that such bill is indispensable in today's milieu. In December, a 3-year-old girl was killed in Detroit when she was caught in a Pontiac Vibe window and strangled her.

"If automakers can add heated seats and chilled cupholders then they can afford to save kids' lives," said Janette E. Fennell, the founder and president of the advocacy group Kids and Cars, who has spearheaded the effort to force automakers to make more safety features standard and will be at today's announcement.

The newly proposed bill mandates the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to create new safety regulations that require equipment that alerts drivers to children or others behind a vehicle, makes power windows reverse direction when they are obstructed by an object and prevents vehicles from rolling away when parked. The bill also requires NHTSA to improve its collection of data on these "nontraffic, noncrash injuries" to children.

"No longer will manufacturers be able to put power window switches in cars that make it easy for a child to be strangled by kneeling on an armrest," said U.S. Rep. Jan Schawkowsky, D-Ill., in a statement supporting the legislation. "Back-over warning systems: $300 (and this price will go down as they become standard). Saving one child's life: priceless."

According to NHTSA data, back-over accidents result in about 183 fatalities annually and approximately 7,000 injuries. It is not clear how many are killed or injured by automatic windows.

Bills of such nature are also opposed. Dave McCurdy, the president of the Alliance of Automotive Manufacturers, which represents General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co., DaimlerChrysler AG and Toyota Motor Corp. among others, said automakers have spent enormous amounts of effort and money making vehicles safe for children. He noted that automakers voluntarily agreed last August to add brake-shift interlock systems, which require a driver to engage the brake before shifting a vehicle into gear, reducing the risk of a child accidentally putting a car in motion.

By 2010, automakers will install the devices in all vehicles, up from about 80 percent of 2006 models. Nonetheless, safety advocates still find it wanting in some respects. Automakers oppose the other two mandates in the new bill, automatically reversing windows and rear-view cameras. According to the legislation, the installation of power reverse would cost about $10 per window or nearly $700 million annually. This necessitates expending a considerable sum on the part of the automakers.

A recent NHTSA regulation mandates that automakers install switches by September 2008 that require users to pull up to open a window. However, the said regulation does not require the windows to reverse automatically.

"The answer is not, 'Let's just keep blaming the parents,'" said Former New Hampshire State Rep. Packy Campbell. "These safety groups aren't asking for a hell of a lot. I agree you can't protect from every possible danger, but these are common-sense, cost-effective solutions."

Volvo accessories and car parts, known for their reliability and safety capabilities, are still evolving along with other manufacturers' auto parts to create safer features.

by Glady Reign
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Author info:

Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.

Volvo 760 Turns 25

Born in February 1982, the Volvo 760 GLE could be the proof of the automaker's domineering presence in the auto industry. Twenty-five years ago, the Volvo 760 GLE was introduced to the enthusiasts and critics alike. It has received a rapturous welcome from both the press and the public. As a fact, it was regarded as having exciting chiseled features and elegant design hence critics said it is not a typical Volvo yet unmistakably Volvo.

The Volvo 760 was the car that saved the automaker back then. It created the foundation that created the modern Volvo Car Corp. However, the road ahead its introduction was both long and tricky and for it to survive up to the present time only means high-level of endurance and capabilities.

The year 1975 was said to be quite a tough year for the auto industry. It was the time when the world first experienced oil crisis. The pressure in the industry was amplified when the new Volvo 240 started to experience quality-related problems. Eventually, the situation made it tougher for Volvo to build cars in Torslanda. Also, it was not sufficiently rewarding to export cars.

In the 1980s, the difficulty of catching the desires of customers was apparent. To remedy this mounting dilemma, Volvo created a group to brainstorm, formulate and plan the future of the company. The managerial task was vested to Håkan Frisinger's hands and the position of Product Manager New Model and coordinator of the project was given to Hans Gustavsson, a young engineer who later became the company's engineering and product development manager.

The burden was never that easy. "We started to plan the 760 at a time when the prerequisites changed virtually every day. And there wasn't a whole lot of agreement either on what the car should be like," Gustavsson recalled. "For the first time ever at Volvo, we used a meticulously carried out global analysis. In-depth studies and flexibility in our approach would guide our work onto the right track. But we really did feel the pressure, knowing as we did that there was absolutely no room for any error."

"For the first time in Volvo's history we used product clinics to test people's reactions ahead of the imminent product release. The findings were not entirely positive, but in the US, which would be the car's main market, the response was immensely positive and people felt that this was a model that was entirely to their taste, so we followed that line," said Gustavsson further.

Gustavsson sums up the remarkable car by saying, "The Volvo 760 was a pivotal point for Volvo Cars in terms of product and economy, and both it and its derivatives came to form the basis for the company's survival. Without the 760 there would have been no 850, without that no S80, and so on. The 760 project cost 3.5 billion kronor at that time. Of course, the aim was that the 760 and its forthcoming derivatives should last throughout the 1980s."

All told, 221,309 cars were made in the 760 Series before it was replaced in 1990 by the Volvo 960. By that time, it had earned Volvo a hale and hearty profit and had given the automaker prestige for almost an entire decade.

The Volvo 760, introduced in the United States in 1982, was discontinued after the 1990 model year and was replaced by the 960. The car was used as a police car in some countries. The said car boasts quality and tested auto parts and accessories that include Volvo alternator, revised dashboard, electronic climate control (ECC), three-position tilt steering, multi-link independent rear suspension, and a stereo system.

by Glady Reign
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Author info:

Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Lexus Is-f to Debut at Geneva Motor Show

Lexus is presenting the European premiere of its new F-marque called the IS-F. The said model will make its debut at this year's Geneva Motor Show.

Geneva's auto center stage is preparing for the introduction of the IS-F as a sports saloon from the fast-rising division of the Toyota Motor Corp. The center stage will also be shared with the LF-A supercar concept.

For ultra-high performance and exceptional sports driving dynamics, Lexus will is setting the F designation to mark its specially engineered cars. The F-badged models radiate power and outstanding handling as well as driving dynamics. To further emphasize its capabilities and potentials, Lexus engaged in the pursuit towards perfects. This venture, which is aimed at pushing the limits of automotive engineering, is now being recognized by the global auto industry.

The Lexus IS-F is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 that is capable of generating over 400 DIN horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The acceleration of the car from rest to 62mph could reach top speed in a matter of 4.9 seconds. Aside from the remarkable engine power, it also boasts of its environment-friendly nature. The carbon dioxide emissions of 290g/km made the Lexus IS-F one of the cleanest sports saloons in its class - it is also one of the most powerful.

The IS-F sedan, which debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January, does not only boast the two-stage intake system, engine oil and transmission fluid coolers and an oil pump designed for high-speed cornering, it offers more captivating features to lure even the young generation of drivers. The latter are said to be more meticulous in choosing cars.

The transmission of the car is based on the automaker's world-first eight-speed automatic. The said feature debuted last year in the new Lexus LS460. Now, it is especially tuned for the Lexus IS-F with a new sports shift control. The latter allows the driver to pick a manual mode by just using the fully automatic gear selection or the paddle shifts on the steering wheel. To get the quickest up-shifting accessible for the segment at 100 milliseconds, the driver can opt to use the sports shift control.

The sporty character of the car is enhanced by the switchable VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management) feature. The latter allows the driver to choose Normal, Sport or Off settings depending on his discretion.

The Lexus LF-A supercar concept, on the other hand, is the product of the automaker's sports engineering team's success in formulating a new and practical approach to auto design engineering for a more compact and fuel-efficient supercar concept powered by a 5.0-litre V10.

The LF-A concept measures 4,400mm in length. So far, it is the most compact and most powerful car in the Lexus lineup. The racing-inspired V10 engine produces over 500 DIN horsepower, giving the car a top speed of approximately 200mph. The forward/mid-engine location with rear-mounted transaxle and radiators gives the car ideal front/rear weight distribution and splendid handling exactitude. The V10 is further boosted by the efficient Lexus cold air intake providing cool breeze to achieve utmost engine efficiency.

Both the Lexus IS-F and the LF-A showcase the advancement in auto technology of Lexus as a result of rigorous studies and testing by its pool of engineers. The remarkable standing of the automaker is also highly-commended in the hybrid manufacture. The Lexus hybrid system is a combination of refinement and sophistication. These qualities are obvious in both the Lexus IS-F and the Lexus LF-A.

The automaker's auto parts blended with the distinct qualities of Lexus make smooth, catchy, powerful and flexible luxury cars for every one to take pleasure in driving.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Congress Urged to Pass Child Car Safety Act

Safety is of utmost importance in any field. This is very true even in the automotive industry. In fact, the safety of a car is one of the more critical aspects of a car being looked into by motorists in buying a vehicle. Safety for children is the issue that is given the most attention when it comes to car safety. Primarily, this has been triggered by the fact that the number of child fatalities in car related accidents is alarmingly high. This is the reason why government and private sectors have been doing their share in the intensification of child car safety.

KIDS AND CARS recently issued an advisory to urge the Congress to pass the Cameron Gulbransen KIDS AND CARS Safety Act of 2007. Among the supporters of the bill are Senators Hillary Clinton (D-NY) and John Sununu (R-NH); Janette Fennell, the President of KIDS AND CARS; Jackie Gillan, the Vice President of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety; Sally Greenberg, a Senior Counsel for Consumers Union; and the families of child victims in vehicle related accidents.

They are calling upon the US Congress to pass the bill that will reduce the risk of injuries and death of children who are in and around a vehicle. The group presents a study that shows that from the year 2000 until now, there are more than 1,000 recorded child fatalities in non-traffic accidents only. This means that the death of those children happened not because of a crash or collision but because of other circumstances that the bill is trying to eradicate. Common problems that the bill is addressing is the risk of a child being backed over by a vehicle, power windows strangulation, or those deaths that have been caused by accidentally knocking a vehicle into motion.

The bill contains what the authors want the US Secretary of Transportation should implement on vehicles to be released to the public. Senators Clinton and Sununu both sponsored this bill to reduce the risk of injuries or even death to children in and around vehicles. One of the provisions of the bill is for the US Secretary of Transportation to mandate car makers to "ensure that power windows automatically reverse when they detect an obstruction to prevent children from being trapped, injured, or killed". This technology is already being used on some tailgates of SUVs and also employed by convertibles when stowing the top or putting it back over the vehicle.

The bill when passed into law will also mandate car manufacturers to "provide drivers with a means of detecting the presence of a person or object behind their vehicle". This is also being used by some vehicle models. This not only makes parking easier, it also reduces the risk of baking over a child or any person for that matter. Another provision is for car makers to "provide for the vehicle service brake to be engaged to prevent vehicles from unintentionally rolling away". This is also a good step since there are cases that the cause of death or injury of a child is due to the accidental rolling of the vehicle. This safety precaution can be further enhanced with the use of EBC brake pads.

The bill also calls for the establishment of "a child safety information program to collect non-traffic incident data and disseminate information to parents about these hazards and ways to mitigate them". This is aimed to show the trends of child injuries and fatalities so that steps can be taken to address whatever may be the cause of such incidents.

Aside from the aforementioned bill, another one will be introduced in the US House of Representatives by Representative Peter King (R-NY) and Representative Janice Schakowsky (D-IL).

by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Save Money On Your Next Care At A Repo Car Auction

It's been a used car dealers best kept secret for a long time. Repo car auctions were a place used car dealers could pickup several good used cars and/or trucks bring them back to their lot and sell them for a nice profit. While that is still the practice of some used car dealers it's easier now for the average joe to learn the ropes, and get his/her own deal on a repo car from the auction.

Find the Information

This can be the toughest part of the entire process. Discovering where and when auctions take place, and if you can or can't get into one is the first step. Your local town office may have information about repo car auctions in your area, also watch the news papers for notices of police or government surplus/repo auctions. These auctions will not only have cars and trucks but also other merchandise such as boats, atv's, and other motor vehicles.

With the advent of information sharing on the Internet it's made it even easier to locate repo auctions. There are services set up solely for this purpose of providing info on auctions in your area as well as what items will be going up for auction.

Where do the vehicles come from

There's a variety of places cars can come from that are up for auction. More times then not they've been repossessed by finance companies, banks, the police and even the town or state. Most times cars and trucks at repo auctions are newer model years, with low mileage, and in good shape. Making it the perfect place for you to pick up your next new to you car.

The best way to navigate the repo car auction circuit is to use a professional service that specializes in providing consumers information on auction locations, cars available etc. Understanding how to bid on a car you may be interested in, making payment if you win, and pickup are all items that should be posed to a professional.

No question if you're w illing to do a little bit of research you'll save a bundle buying your car from a repo auction rather then a used dealer. You could very well bid against the same person you'd buy the car from otherwise. Using a service to do your research online prior to heading out to locate an auction is ideal. You'll be able to see what similar cars have sold for at other auctions, and sometimes even place a bid online.

by D Fraser
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Author info: To learn more about researching repo car auctions visit our website at repo motorcycles.

Mini Usa Launches 6 Online Videos Featuring Hammer & Coop

Following several baffling appearances on billboards, Mini USA has finally unraveled the mystery behind the ad campaign that has left passersby puzzled for about a month or two. Mini USA responded to the overwhelming query of who Hammer and Coop are. The revelation is enveloped in the six action-packed viral videos, which are to debut next month.

The project of the automaker includes highly stylized series of online videos about a new action hero called Hammer and his trusty sidekick Coop. The adventures, action and intrigue surrounding the dynamic duo could be experienced on their website which could be accessed at www.hammerandcoop.com. Each web episode promises loads of exciting sequels to keep online visitors riveted to their monitors.

The six much-awaited online videos were directed by Todd Phillips (the director of Starsky and Hutch and Old School flicks) and starring actor Bryan Callen of MADtv. The first two web videos have debuted on the 21st this month. The debut of the online video series was intended to coincide with the introduction of the 2007 MINI. In March, the following four will be introduced. In addition, the "Heat of the Moment," a music video for Asia that features a famous 80s song, will also be unleashed on the last online episode of Hammer and Coop.

All of the online videos were especially created to radiate a different level of enthusiasm to tickle the imagination of the visitors. Individuals who are thirsty for cool adventures, fresher and invigorating than the emission of Mini cold air intake; they can rely on the escapades of Hammer and Coop imbibed in the video series. In order for the series to be realized, the company has hired a cast and crew of over 70 people. They include a world-famous director, top actors in the industry, and professional stunt men to take care of the breath-taking action scenes. Cinema trailers will be full of Hammer and Coop adventures starting on 22 February through 23 March.

"MINI is so much more than a brand; it is a lifestyle," said Jim McDowell, the Vice President of MINI USA. "MINI enthusiasts embody the same sense of creativity, passion, fun, and lust for life that went into the making of these films. MINI owners are also a highly interactive online community, so we are looking forward to the reaction from people around the country, who will undoubtedly enjoy these films and share them with friends."

The Hammer and Coop ad campaign of Mini USA is also set to invade a prominent niche in the viral community realm. The company has leverage partnership with some digital media aside from print and broadcast. The ad will be featured in MySpace, YouTube and Second Life. The Second Life invasion is scheduled to start on 15 March. The trailer and video components will be available on 20 February. Additionally, the advertising content will also be available on podcasts and mobile phones.

"For the next six weeks, as the webisodes launch and more of the plot is revealed, audiences will get to know the real story behind Hammer and Coop," said Trudy Hardy, the Marketing Manager for MINI USA. "The goal is to effectively engage consumers in the brand by offering an ongoing, interactive dialogue that will keep them coming back for more and interested in future MINI projects."

The Mini USA ad campaign features an array of artsy and adventurous components to make the viewers more absorbed. Fun accessories like vintage lunchboxes, iron-on logos for tee-shirts, and gear inspired stuffs could also be purchased online.

"Working with MINI USA allows us to stretch creatively and expand on concepts that other, more conservative companies might shy away from," said John Butler, Executive Creative Director and Founding Partner at Butler, Shine, Stern and Partners, MINI USA's ad agency. "The result is always very fun and interactive - in a nutshell, very MINI."

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

United Kingdom Meets Mitsubishi I

Mitsubishi Motors earlier announced that its award-winning "i" minicar will go on sale in the United Kingdom on the 1st of July this year. The Mitsubishi "i" minicar will be priced at £8,999.

The "i," a Japanese kei car, was introduced by the automaker on 24 January last year. When asked about how the minicar got its name, the company responded, "This new-age car encourages the owner to express him/herself ('I') fully. Starting with the letter 'i' (innovation) also served as a keyword in the development of the car."

The minicar debuted 28 months after its introduction as a concept car at the 60th Frankfurt Motor Show. After the debut of the car, initial sales target were surpassed by 20 percent. Also, in its first year, the "i" won four major awards. The four-seat "i" has even gained a cult status in Japan. There, it has proved its worth in both critical and commercial aspects. The success is attributed to its futuristic design, spacious interior, good handling and comfy ride.

Jim Tyrrell, the Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors UK, said, "We displayed the "i" at Badminton Horse Trials, the British Motor Show and at a number of key dealerships around the country and the public reaction was wholly positive. The "i" has already become a cult car in Japan and we're confident that its space and sophistication, coupled with Mitsubishi's reputation for quality and reliability, will also make it a hit in the UK."

Last year, more than 37,000 units were already sold in Japan alone. Automotive design and awards also showered the Mitsubishi model. The Automotive Researchers & Journalists of Japan (RJC) named the "i" the 'RJC Car of the Year.' Both customers and critics were wowed by the efficiency of the 64bhp, 660cc turbo engine of the car and the practical advantages that it delivers.

Other awards bagged by Mitsubishi "i" include the "Most Advanced Technology" Special Achievement Award, and it was also voted on as part of Japan's Executive Committee of the Car of the Year awards. The Good Design Gold Prize and Good Design Grand Prize for 2006 were also given to the car by the Japanese Good Design Awards.

The said success has prompted Mitsubishi Motors UK to import the "i." But before the importation proposal, an extensive feasibility study was conducted by the company. This is to ensure that Mitsubishi "i" has the great potential to make it big in the UK as well.

The Mitsubishi "i" will be sold through selected UK Mitsubishi dealers. The initial availability set was just 300 units. Moreover, with several deposits already made, the "i" is said to have lured a small following in the UK.

The Mitsubishi "i" is equipped with a "rear-midship" engine mounted just ahead of the rear axle. The forthcoming European versions will feature Mitsubishi's INVECS-II semi-automatic transmission. The automaker will also incorporate 3B20 aluminium-block three cylinder powerplant, a DOHC cylinder head with MIVEC variable valve timing, and intercooled turbocharger to produce a peak power of 47 kW and torque of 94 N•m. For this year, a naturally aspirated engine was introduced by the automaker. The engine is capable of producing 38 kW and 57 N•m. To boost the efficiency of the engine, an equally-functional Mitsubishi cold air intake is utilized.

To create a bigger front crumple zone and to comply with the safety regulations, the automaker used a lightweight aluminium space frame structure and a rear-engined layout. This is also done so as not to compromise the interior space of the car. Mitsubishi "i" also features MacPherson struts are used in the front suspension, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and front discs with anti-lock braking (ABS).

The "i" in its name is a play on the Japanese word "ai" which means love. This idea emphasizes the car's adorable properties. Mitsubishi is also engineered to be clever, imaginative and innovative. These characteristics are set to attract the Europeans.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Gm and Meijer Celebrate the Openinf of the 20th E85 Ethanol Fueling Station in Michigan

In the news: General Motors together with Meijer have joined to celebrate the opening of Meijer's 20th E85 ethanol fueling station in the state of Michigan. The said event marked the completion of 20 new E85 ethanol pumps following a joint commitment entered into by the following companies: General Motors, Meijer, Clean FUEL USA and the State of Michigan.

The opening of the new E85 fueling station was witnessed by Mitch Irwin, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture. In a speech he said, "This partnership and others like it will fuel Michigan's future. Strong public policy support and private industry expertise are key ingredients to establishing a thriving renewable energy market, but it is innovation and commitment that will position our state as national leader."

As part of the collaborative effort, local GM dealers are also helping to promote the new fueling stations to customers that purchase FlexFuel vehicles. General Motors will likewise continue to boost awareness of E85 ethanol as a renewable, alternative fuel to meet demands of present day drivers. Meijer for its part has been selling ethanol at all of the 20 locations for 10 cents less than the price of the unleaded gas. By giving discounts, Meijer is hoping to encourage more drivers to use ethanol as their primary source of fuel.

Meijer is a Michigan company with headquarters in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This company aims to provide the newest product to its customers and the E85 ethanol happens to be one of its fresh products. The ethanol fuel provides a cleaner burning fuel alternative and seen as a way to break free from petroleum dependency.

According to Hank Meijer, Co-Chairman of Meijer, Inc., "Meijer too a first, but large step toward creating real choices for its customers at the pump when we committed to opening 20 E85 ethanol stations across the state. Fulfillment of this commitment is the foundation of Meijer's overall focus on environment stewardship for the future."

The State of Michigan has also become a home to one of the largest concentrations of GM's E85 flexible fuel vehicles in the country, with a total of 140,000 in use. The Meijer's 20 E85 ethanol pumps will give Michigan drivers the opportunity to fill up their engines with alternative, renewable fuel.

Elizabeth Lowery, GM Vice President of Environment and Energy said, "At GM, we believe that the biofuel with the greatest potential to displace petroleum-based fuels in the US is ethanol, and we have made a major commitment to vehicles that can run on E85 ethanol---with over two million of our FlexFuel vehicle son the road today. We're pleased to join Meijer in celebrating its twentieth E85 ethanol pump in the state and we commend Meijer on joining our efforts to make E85 ethanol available to more Michigan motorists."

General Motors believes that by promoting alternative sources of energy, issues surrounding energy availability are given solution. Producing the E85 FlexFuel vehicles is just one part of GM's strategy to reduce the use of petroleum and lessen the level of harmful emissions. Also part of the automaker's strategy is to improve the efficiency of the traditional internal combustion and to create an especially designed GM fuel injector to match the needs of the FlexFuel.

by Noah Scott
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Author info:

Noah Scott is a 30 year old native of New Jersey, writer, and car fan - having grown up with both parents being auto enthusiasts. He works for an automotive consultancy firm and regularly contributes articles to car magazines.

Navistar Suspends Diesel Engine Production

The Navistar International Corporation earlier announced that it is suspending the production of the Power Stroke(R) diesel engine that it builds for the Ford Motor Company. The suspension of this production is the alleged dishonoring of the terms of agreement under which the engines were manufactured.

Navistar has been the exclusive diesel engine supplier for the automaker's heavy duty pickup trucks since the year 1979. Earlier, the company built a new 6.4L Power Stroke(R) diesel engine that complies with this year's emissions standards. Aside from complying with the 2007 emissions standards, the new diesel engine is engineered to increase performance, durability and fuel economy.

Navistar said in a statement that it pays its suppliers and employees under contract terms and that it expects Ford to honor the terms of its agreement the same way. The Warrenville, Ill.-based engine manufacturer is the exclusive diesel engine supplier for Ford's heavy duty pickup trucks. With the said contract dispute, critics in the industry predict that the production of some of Ford's bread-and-butter trucks would be greatly affected.

Any interruption of the Ford SuperDuty production would be ruinous for the automaker. Ford is still under pressure and the recuperation period could take longer than expected. It can be recalled that Ford just launched a redesigned SuperDuty line, and the big trucks are among the most popular and profitable vehicles in its lineup. Any disruption could mean a more enduring loss. It is not as undemanding as Lincoln cold air intake manufacture disruption - the controversy includes its pride vehicles, no less.

Ford, on the other hand, said that Navistar is the one violating the contract. Moreover, the automaker added that a decision by key supplier Navistar International Corp. will not disrupt production of the Ford SuperDuty pickups "in the near term." The automaker would not say how long it could keep its truck lines running if the recalcitrant vendor holds out.

"Ford has always honored the agreement and will continue to do so in the future," said Ford spokesman Tom Hoyt. "We have been working very closely with Navistar for many months to resolve these contract issues."

Ford has enjoyed leadership in the manufacture of pickup trucks. The said excellence has been etched in the Ford brand for more than a couple of decades. Navistar believes the new Power Stroke 6.4L diesel engines it supplies Ford provided the latter the opportunity to maintain or improve its standing in the truck manufacture and industry.

In January, Ford sued Navistar alleging that the latter was not complying with warranty cost-sharing agreements and that it had unjustifiably increased prices on its diesel engines. The suit also stated that the engine manufacturer had threatened to cut off shipment if Ford did not pay the new prices for its engines.

The diesel engine manufacturer also announced that it will stop producing the .4-litre Power Stroke at its Indianapolis and Huntsville, Ala. Factories. Nevertheless, Navistar added that the Huntsville plant will continue production of the mentioned product for other customers.

This is not the first time that Ford is pestered by supplier problems that eventually threatened important vehicles. It can be recalled that bankrupt Collins & Aikman Corp. suspended the shipments of some auto parts to Ford factory in Hermosillo, Mexico. The said circumstance created a halt in the production of the Ford Fusion.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Mazda Az-wagon Custom Style Series: Bolder, Better


The Mazda Motor Corporation announced the addition of the new Custom Style series to its AZ-Wagon micro-mini range. The said series unites a bolder styling to make the A-Z wagon even better than its predecessor. The flashy exterior of the car is blended with the classy black interior so as to boost quality look and feel. Sales transactions have commenced since 23 February at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealerships throughout Japan.

The Mazda AZ wagon offers two grades - the Custom Style DI that comes with a direct injection (DI) turbo-charged engine, and the Custom Style X which now offers a variable valve timing (VVT) engine. Manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) range from 1,197,000 to 1,608,600 yen and that is inclusive of the consumption tax. The target monthly sales of the car are 2,200 units.

The Custom Style DI flaunts the premium quality grille with xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlights to offer a prominent stance. The distinct bonnet and the wraparound bumper enhanced the bolder appearance of the car. Aside from the bolder and more stylish exterior, the car also features an interesting blend of taillights to boost the styling given on the Custom Style models.

The Custom Style series are also equipped with exclusively designed 14-inch alloy wheels, turn indicator lights that are attached to the door mirror covers, and striking body colors to make every passerby be stunned by its grandeur. The Mysterious Violet Pearl which is a deep purple body color is made available for the first time. Other body colors for the vehicle include Pearl White, Silky Silver Metallic, Bluish Black Pearl 3 and Azure Grey Pearl Metallic. If the Mysterious Violet Pearl or the Pearl White is chosen by a purchaser, the price will be increased by 21,000 yen already inclusive of tax. Also, a separate recycling fee of 9,370 yen is required in addition to the MSRP listed. The said amount also is tax inclusive.

The classy black interior is augmented by the use of black fabric on seats and door trim. The glittering effect of the light reflecting particles on the door armrests and instrument panel center stack garnish made it more regal and fascinating. The interior of the Custom Style series flaunts the black metallic aura that is further boosted by the airvent and meter dial bezel rings of same color.

Aside from style, comfort is also given a greater importance. Enhanced ergonomics features include the Advanced Keyless Entry & Start system, which is made standard; and a fully automatic air conditioning to maintain cool and pleasant ambience. A high-grade sound system is also part of the Custom Style DI model grade package. The system includes an exclusive audio tuning unit with a seven-speaker setup that covers front and rear door speakers, front tweeters and a sub-woofer, to produce an invigorating audio environment inside the car.

The Mazda AZ wagon, based on the Suzuki Wagon R and Autozam minicar marque, was introduced in Japan in 1994. It uses the same 3-cylinder 657cc engine that the Mazda Carol uses. The new 658cc DOHC engine substituted the aging SOHC 657cc. It is complemented by Mazda cold air intake to push the car's performance to a notch higher. The design of the car was refreshed in 2001. Now, the car is ready to cater to customization desires as it endeavors to be more imaginative, striking and personal.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Take Two for the Robot Ad

It was only last month that mental health organizations have bombarded General Motors with complaints regarding their robot commercial. And to appease the mental health groups, GM has decided to revise the part which the group claims to be encouraging suicide.

The small yellow robot that starred in the controversial GM commercial is given another chance at fame in a retooled version of the commercial. Instead of the original jumping off the bridge, the robot will just have to try out entry level jobs that involve stocking shelves and parking cars and had bad dreams of cars in the scrap yard every morning. The Eric Carmen song "All by Myself" will continue to serve as the backdrop for the commercial.

According to Dave Regan, an advertising expert in Michigan State University, "I think people wish to be able to trust (companies) more easily. By doing this, GM drove the point home that it listens to its critics."

The remake of the robot commercial is going to be aired during special TV broadcast on various award shows. General Motors has decided to edit out the bridge jumping scene after it has met with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

According to GM the original commercial was filmed in part of the Lansing Michigan Grand River assembly plant where Cadillacs are built. The main objective of the automaker in creating its commercial is to show how GM workers are obsessed with quality.

GM's Super Bowl ad was ranked the seventh on the MSNBC.com poll and ranked 18th out of the 57 ads on the USA Today Ad Meter list of Super Bowl Ads. The Robot ad has cost GM approximately $5 million USD.

Regan said that the revision of the ad was a very important step for GM since it affects the way people perceive General Motors as a whole especially since most buyers thinks that foreign makes are better in quality. In the past years, GM has won several awards for the quality of its trucks, cars, and sport utility vehicles. And for this year, the Chevrolet Silverado and Saturn Aura has won the 2007 North American car and Truck of the Year awards during the North American International Auto Show held in Detroit.

In addition, General Motors in order to encourage more customers has upgraded their warranty by giving 100,000 mile, five-year warranty and launched their levitating cars ad in the later part of 2006. The robot ad was actually the next step in the campaign, according to GM Spokeswoman Ryndee Carney. "We know it will take a long time for perceptions to change. Perceptions lag reality."

This was also seconded by GM's Vice President of Marketing and Advertising, Mike Jackson who said that if GM can persuade car buyers to give the Detroit-based automaker a try, they will see that the products possess quality that goes beyond those offered by foreign makes not only in terms of designs but also in terms of auto parts used say in the clutch assembly they will be able to see the remarkable ability and durability of GM clutch kits. The difficult part is the initial luring of customers but of course once customers have tried GM products keeping them would be much easier. "We truly understand that if we build the best-looking, hottest products that we can, back them with the quality that consumers expect and couple that with GM 100,000-mile warranty, we have a real opportunity to increase our sales."

by Noah Scott
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Author info:

Noah Scott is a 30 year old native of New Jersey, writer, and car fan - having grown up with both parents being auto enthusiasts. He works for an automotive consultancy firm and regularly contributes articles to car magazines.

Mercedes Benz 450sl Parts Make Driving a Breeze

Looking slick while riding on a two-seater convertible while cruising along Sunset Boulevard could really make heads turn. But what more if you are revving up with a sporty yet luxurious looking roofless ride such as the Mercedes Benz 450E? Surely, others would drool over that picture. And almost nothing could top that kind of lavishness. Because you got with you on the steering wheel of a Mercedes Benz 450SL what it takes to stand-out.

The bold look says it is built for the driven. With the foot flooring the gas pedal, you could feel the animal of a performance waiting to be unleashed. And with the grill boasting of that patented large Mercedes Benz emblem, passers-by will surely venerate the car with high regard as the roadster is equipped with nothing but genuine, high-quality Mercedes Benz 450SL parts and accessories. Utter passion for excellence, so to speak.

The Mercedes Benz 450SL belongs to the SL-Class of Mercedes Benz line, with the abbreviation "SL" meant as "sport light," or in German, "sport leicht." Cars of the open SL-Class were available as a coupe with a removable hardtop or as a roadster with convertible soft top or with both tops. This series of luxury vehicles had its maiden appearance on the 1954 300SL 'Gullwing' so named because of its upward-opening passenger doors. Together with the SLC-Class, the SL-Class is roofed under the R107 series of the Mercedes Benz. This refers to the name of the series of the Mercedes Benz cars released from 1972 to 1989. The R107 adopted the chassis components of the mid-sized Mercedes Benz W114 model. With the "R" in R107 being "reihe," or series, it took on the 107 chassis model. This includes other models like the 350 SL, 380 SL and the 560 SL. The Mercedes Benz 450 SL had its heyday of production until 1980. Its front and rear bumpers extended to 8 inches to c omply with the United States safety regulations.

The 107 chassis had the longest run of any Mercedes chassis, which spanned 18 years from 1971 to 1989. Some 237,000 107 chassis SL's were built around that time. About two thirds were sold in the United States. These 107 cars are larger, heavier and more costly than the previous generation W113 cars.

An elongated version of the Mercedes Benz 450SL (or R107) is the Mercedes Benz C107, or most commonly known as the SLC. It also utilizes the W114 chassis model with a larger engine and styling very much like the Mercedes Benz 450SL counterpart. There were 7,000 units sold with the United States having the major share of the pie.

A major factor to the success of this roadster model is its high-quality Mercedes Benz 450SL parts and accessories. They serve as building blocks to make the overall performance of the Mercedes Benz 450SL sleek as silk. Some Mercedes Benz 450SL parts that brings forth comfort and leisure include power steering, power windows, power door locks, leather interior, cassette player, AM/FM Stereo, hard top, convertible seats, automatic transmission, among others.

These Mercedes Benz 450SL parts and accessories are not run-of-the-mill type of components. They are skillfully crafted and scientifically engineered to give nothing but the best customer satisfaction it can provide. Excellence is what they are after. And excellence, it is, that they are making.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Axle: Keeping the Wheels on the Ground

Axles are the spine of a car's drive train. They hold the wheels together and, since wheels prop the car up from the ground, bear the full weight of the vehicle. Early axle designs use a single steel shaft to link up the left and right wheels. In this setup, the axle maintains the position of the two wheels relative to one another. As torque flows to the car's drive train and turns the wheels, the axle keeps tight rein of both wheels and keeps the car from swaggering. A single shaft axle is known to resist a considerable amount of car chassis stress and has high weight capacity. It is commonly used on heavy duty vehicles like trucks and wagons that are usually used to load heavy cargo.

A single shaft axle, however, has its own limitations. Linking up the left and right wheels means that both are going to share one suspension assembly and drive train. When two wheels have a same drive train, both of them turn at the same rate. At cruise speed the limitation of a single shaft axle is tolerable. But, when cornering, the left and right wheels follow different arcs, the one inside the curve smaller than the other. In the event that a car corners and both wheels are rotating at the same rate, the car's traction on the ground is compromised.

As luxury cars and street sedans have shown, there is more to axle design than its structural features. Marquee brands like the Mercedes-Benz have wheels connected to the car chassis with a split axle. Split axle is basically a reinforced half shaft, usually via enclosing the shaft in a billet, or combining two axles, called tandem axles. Because wheels are supported individually, wheel rotation is determined individually for each of them. This will then result to improved traction when cornering. As an offshoot to the non-inclusion of the single shaft axle in the Mercedes-Benz drive train, the wheels are equipped with an individual suspension setting. Because roads are hardly uniform, wheels with the suspension setting lumped up usually means enduring a bumpy ride. With an individual suspension, each side of the Mercedes-Benz negotiates bumps independently from the rest of the drive train.

Aside from traction and suspension improvement, there are also specialized Mercedes axles that boasts of a capacity to enhance other parts of the drive train like the brake and steering assemblies. Drive axles, commonly known as transaxles, serve as front axle and enhances the Mercedes-Benz steering. Composed of two half axles, transaxles are split axles fitted with differential and universal joints. One of the joints in each of the half axle is a flexible coupling called constant velocity joint, which provides a pivot point for the axle when the car corners. In a rear-wheel drive Mercedes-Benz, a driveshaft to facilitate torque transfer from the engine to the wheels can also be fitted.

As an addition to its use on transmission and steering, the axle can also be incorporated on a Mercedes-Benz brake system that uses engine braking, although this supplemental braking is only needed and used on big vehicles such as sports utility vehicles and limousines. Engine braking utilizes the compression stroke in the combustion process to retard engine speed. When the flywheel compresses the air and fuel mixture in the cylinder heads, one byproduct is heat. This heat, when combustion takes place, is ejected out of the engine and exhausted from the vehicle. When engine slows down, the axle can flow less torque, meaning less rotational force to run the wheels.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Mercedes Benz 300d: Luxury and Power Rolled Into One

For many years now, there has been a stigma that having a diesel-powered engine spells sub-par engine performance over gas engines. In terms of revving up more horsepower, the gas engine is the clear winner as it is proven for quick and easier starts in cold weather and quiet acceleration. Availability of fuel is also an advantage. But in terms of pulling heavy loads, diesel fares better as its brute pulling force is testament to its torque advantage. And in the long run, a diesel engine can run longer than its gas-powered counterpart with its durable components. This long-term care edge has been the hallmark of what a diesel-powered engine is made of.

Such performance is proven by the Mercedes Benz 300D. This 4-door station wagon (also in touring sedan type) is built not only for elegance but for rugged applications, as well. As it started rolling out during the mid 70's, the Mercedes Benz 300D is tucked with a large 3.0 liter displacement and a straight five cylinder normal aspirated indirect injection diesel powered engine. The 80- to 90- horsepower output was a staggering statistic during those times. This became the impetus for engineers and scientists to come up with faster and more powerful internal combustion engines. And by 1982, a turbo diesel engine was developed using a turbocharged engine that produced up to 123 hp. It also has two available shifting options, including the 4-speed automatic transmission and the 5-speed manual transmission system. All these improvements have been made without tarnishing the continued efficiency and reliability

The chassis platform of the Mercedes Benz 300D uses the platform similar to the pioneering W123, considered as the most prolific platform in Mercedes history. Though it ended production in 1985, virtually all of the cars based on the chassis are still on the roads today. This proves the quality and durability of the original design. The legacy of the 300D went on until 1993, but a different design, engine (OM602, a turbocharged inline five cylinder) and chassis (W124) to cope with the new trends in technology that time.

Not only in the performance, reliability and the durability of Mercedes Benz 300D parts and accessories, but ingenuity also lies in the way the Mercedes Benz 300D is designed to make the replacements and restoration convenient. It is a common sight already that every Mercedes Benz 300D part or accessory has been made available with a do-it-yourself kind of instructional manual for guided installation and mounting. Thus, consumers will have a breeze replacing defective Mercedes Benz 300D parts and accessories. In terms of availability, Mercedes Benz 300D parts and accessories can be purchased at the nearest counters of local dealerships or auto parts stores. At the click of a mouse, a Mercedes Benz 300D part or accessory can be readily bought online via online parts stores or dealerships. But having replacements or other forms of upgrade would take the owner a longer time than expected as the Mercedes Benz 300D parts and accessories are built with the toughest materials and are scientifically tested to last a long time for a prolonged driving pleasure of its passengers.

by Dwyane Thomas
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Author info:

Dwyane Thomas is a part time cook and full-time auto-enthusiast. This 31-year old Civil and Environmental graduate is a consultant at one of the engineering firms in Pennsylvania.

Sable Returns to Showrooms With More to Offer

The redesigned Mercury Montego with a not-so-new name returns to showrooms with an even wider array of offerings. The automaker gives the 2008 Sable more power, a new level of sophistication and a brand new design philosophy. These new features set the new Mercury Sable apart in the auto industry's sedan segment.

"Mercury products are aimed at winning over new customers who value distinct touches, and this new Sable is sure to impress with a more refined interior design and jewel-like details throughout," said Cisco Codina, the Ford's group vice president of North America Marketing for Sales and Service. "Mercury has a great deal of momentum right now, with a fresh lineup including the redesigned Mariner small SUV and popular Milan sedan. The new Sable will help continue this momentum," Codina added.

Unveiled today at this year's Chicago Auto Show, the new Mercury Sable delivers a remarkable look both inside and out. The 2008 Sable is given a deeper grille dig to stress the new design DNA of Mercury. Some cues are from the redesigned Mariner SUV. The bumper of the Sable is recessed which adds a dash of rugged stance and prominent face as emphasized by the nose of the car. The tail-end of the car has also received much attention. It also features white taillights with a red strip at the bottom. In addition, the trunk lid was also modified by moving the license plate right down onto the rear bumper.

According to Mark Fields, the Ford's President of the Americas, "[Consumer] awareness of Sable is triple that of Montego." This is the reason behind the change of name. The new Mercury Sable is given 3.5 L Cyclone twin-cam V6 of Ford. The said engine produces 260 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 245 ft-lbs of torque at 4500 rpm. The available transmission of the car is Ford's 6F automatic, with a final drive ratio of 2.77:1. It will be blended with Mercury cold air intake to bring out the utmost performance. The new Sable boasts of 30 percent more power than its predecessor, the outgoing Mercury Montego and all of these is thanks to the standard Duratec 35 V-6 and automatic transmission given to the vehicle. The available all wheel drive makes the ride comfy and confident.

"Mercury customers tend to have a more unique sense of style," said Moray Callum, the director of Ford Car Design. "They have come to expect a different level of sophistication and refinement in the surface development, paint finishes and details like satin aluminum."

The interior of the car boasts refinement, sophistication and impressive ergonomics that feature distinct trim options and two-tone seating surfaces with contrast stitching. In connection with convenience and entertainment features, the Sable is also equipped with DVD navigation and SIRIUS satellite radio and Ford Sync.

The Mercury Sable is clean, hip and expressive. From the signature waterfall grille flanked by jeweled headlamps, chrome surrounds for the fog lamps and stunning caps on the side mirrors, no one would dare ignore the car. Those enthusiasts who prefer customization could choose technical appearance for the car. Cyber Carbon that resembles carbon fiber as well as two modern accents called San Macassar and Guitar Maple are made available by the automaker.

To further boost safety, the AdvanceTrac electronic stability control system is made a standard feature. Other safety features also include dual-stage driver and passenger front air bags, seat-deployed side air bags for driver and front passenger, and Ford's Safety Canopy™ side curtain air bags for both rows of seats. These safety features made Sable yield five stars in all four categories of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) crash tests.

The Mercury Sable will arrive this summer with a more powerful and plush ride plus loads of convenience and safety assurance. This is to boost the driving experience that Sable enthusiasts were used to.

by Lauren Woods
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Author info:

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

Consumer Reports Gives the Chevrolet Cobalt Below-average Ranking

General Motors—world's largest automaker and maker of the popular GM cold air intakes --- has recently issued a statement against the Consumer Reports' below-average ranking of the Chevrolet Cobalt saying that the magazine has based its findings on old tests results and does not in any way reflect the current models.

It should be noted that the magazine has ranked the Chevrolet Cobalt 11th out of 16 small cars with automatic transmissions. Consumer Reports' Winter/Spring 2007 Superchart has not included the Lordstown-built car among the eight cars listed on the magazine's "recommended buys". The information was released ahead of its annual issue which will come out on March 6.

The Cobalt ranking that was released by Consumer Reports was based on the performance test done by the magazine in 2005, in short it doesn't reflect the improvements done to the car since then, said Janine Froehan, spokeswoman for General Motors on quality issues. The Chevrolet Cobalt was released in fall of 2004.

Starting from the time the magazine tested the Cobalt, Lordstown plant has already added a new paint shop which has greatly improved the finish quality and reduced the noise by enhancing the sealing of the car's body, explained Froehan. There are also added features included in the 2007 models such as a remote start and upgraded radio. Froehan has expressed her observation regarding the magazine's quality rankings saying that it's not accurate and are based on a three year average test plus it does not include updates on innovation or developments that the vehicles included in the ranking tests have undergone.

Froehan further stated that GM's internal monitoring reveals that the car improved significantly in terms of reliability and performance. "Is the car where it needs to be? No. But we are making improvements, and they are significant."

Jim Graham, President of United Auto Workers Local 1112 commented that the magazine's ranking doesn't match any of the research being conducted at the Lordstown plant. He also said that Lordstown workers for the past couple of months have been calling Cobalt buyers and personally asking them for any problems that they are encountering with the brand. The workers are also asking these same buyers what they like and do not about their cars. "The percentage of positive calls is much, much more than the percentage of negative calls." Graham did not divulge the specific numbers.

Consumer Reports' Magazine has given the Cobalt with a below-average score in terms of reliability and overall satisfaction. The magazine has also given the Cobalt with an average rating in the area of accident avoidance. But in fairness to the Cobalt it has scored above average in crash protection with its side airbags and received an average score without the airbags.

The magazine also highlighted the good points of the Cobalt like for its acceleration and ride. But unfortunately scored low for steering, engine noise, fuel economy, seat comfort and side crash protection without the curtain airbags.

All the other top-rated cars included in the Consumer Reports' Winter/Spring 2007 Superchart were by far more expensive than the Cobalt. The Cobalt tested by the magazine only cost $16,350 while the prices of the top six cars ranged from $18,190 to $23,780. General Motors has scheduled the production of Cobalt in Lordstown through summer of 2009. Union officials are also hopeful that the plant will receive another model to build.

by Noah Scott
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Author info:

Noah Scott is a 30 year old native of New Jersey, writer, and car fan - having grown up with both parents being auto enthusiasts. He works for an automotive consultancy firm and regularly contributes articles to car magazines.

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Daimlerchrysler to Trade Chrysler for Gm Stake

Last Monday DaimlerChrysler and General Motors -- the world's largest automaker and producer of the popular GM cargo liners -- have engaged in an intensified talk about the possible linkup between Chrysler division and GM. According to reports from the Financial Times, DaimlerChrysler is considering taking a stake in Europe's largest automaker in exchange for its money-losing Chrysler unit.

The Financial Times, citing people familiar with the situation, said that DaimlerChrysler is weighing on the possibility of trading Chrysler for GM stake or to sell Chrysler to private-equity firms such as Blackstone Group, Apollo Management LP, Carlyle Group, and the Cerberus Capital Management. The four mentioned private-equity firms have refused to comment on the matter.

Likewise, DaimlerChrysler denied reports that it is still interested in keeping Chrysler and this was confirmed when DCX Chairman Dieter Zetsche said that all options for the Chrysler Group are now laid on the table and he further said that the possibility of a sale is not ruled out from the options.

It is no secret that General Motors is the world's largest automaker but despite its status as a global automotive power it has been losing market share in the US. And everybody knows that it is undergoing a massive restructuring that resulted to the closing of plants and cutting down of jobs. DaimlerChrysler is probably considering such facts before it decides on exchanging its Chrysler for GM stake.

Last Monday, a newspaper has also reported on its website that the Chairman of the Magna International Inc. had a meeting with two of the largest unions at Chrysler to discuss solutions on how to help the automaker surpass its current crisis. The meeting that transpired between Magna Chairman Frank Stonach and union leaders has become a rumor circulating through the auto industry. According to some sources familiar with the situation, Magna plans to takeover Chrysler in exchange to make the Canadian auto parts giant into a full-fledged automaker. DaimlerChrysler has not yet given any comment on this report.

A Senior Chrysler official last Friday told The Associated Press that the company is going to supply detailed financial information to some of their selected potential buyers and is working in partnership with its investment bank the J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. to avoid divulging sensitive information.

Meanwhile, Russia's second biggest automotive company, the OAO Gaz Group has also expressed their non-interest on Chrysler after reports came out saying that they are interested in purchasing Chrysler-- allegedly reported by the German weekly magazine Focus. The magazine did not cite any sources according to GAZ which is supplied by Chrysler with four-cylinder engines for the Russian company's minivans and cars. Other automakers that have expressed their non-interest in Chrysler include Volkswagen AG, Renault-Nissan Auto Alliance and Hyundai Motor Co.

Most analysts think that an equity deal would benefit GM since a domestic tie-up would be much easier for Chrysler instead of a foreign buyout. "Since GM is short of cash, an equity deal would make sense if it is interested in Chrysler, and an equity valuation of Chrysler at, say, three billion euros or $3.94 billion USD would wind up giving DaimlerChrysler a 20 percent stake in GM," said Stephen Cheetham, a senior analyst with Sanford C. Bernstein Ltd. He also said that "this kind of deal has some face-saving potential for management, and we believe that from a shareholder perspective, 20 percent of a combined GM/Chrysler entity is preferable to owning Chrysler outright. However it does not give DaimlerChrysler a clean break from equity exposure to the troubled world of US domestic carmakers, and we would expect the presence of a GM stake to be an ongoing irritant in its relations with investors."

DCX shares increased by 0.3 percent to 53.93 euros or $70.83 in Frankfurt trading however the company's US shares fell by 13 cents to $70.79 in an early trading on the New York Stock Exchange as compared to GM shares which rose by 33 cents to $34.59.

Chrysler has earlier announced it's lost of $1.475 billion in 2006 and said that it expects losses to continue through 2007. On the other hand, its parent DaimlerChrysler has earned $4.26 billion in 2006. As part of the continuing losses that Chrysler is experiencing, the automaker will cut 13,000 jobs which include 11,000 production workers and 2,000 salaried employees. It has also announced the closure of one of its plant and additional layoffs at some of its other plants.

by Noah Scott
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Author info:

Noah Scott is a 30 year old native of New Jersey, writer, and car fan - having grown up with both parents being auto enthusiasts. He works for an automotive consultancy firm and regularly contributes articles to car magazines.

Danforth Center Received $25 Million for Renewable Fuel Research

The call for better fuel alternatives is being held and heard all around the global community. Different sectors are already making their contributions in the development of alternative fuels that will reduce the dependency of the human race on non-renewable fossil fuel supply. Governments and private sectors across the globe have been making steps in researching and developing better fuel alternatives. Private individuals have also joined in the cause of developing better sources of energy and fuel.

Recently, Jack and Susan Taylor gave the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center $25 million to create the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute for Renewable Fuels. As the name suggests, the institute will be doing works related to the identification and development of better alternative fuels. The institute is named after the Enterprise Rent-A-Car which is car rental service that was founded by Jack Taylor back in 1957.

The gift made by the Taylors will increase the speed at which the development in the alternative fuel industry is being made. The development and subsequent use of these alternative fuels will significantly decrease the amount of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere. This is because they will be developing fuels that will burn cleaner than fossil fuels. These fuels will be a good step in addressing the threat posed by global warming to the entire human populace.

Dr. William H. Danforth, the chairman of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, has this to say about the $25 million gift: "We are very grateful to jack and Susan Taylor for their generous gift to expand the Danforth Center's basic research in plant science and address the growing need for biofuels. This gift establishes a truly unique partnership to address an important issue for future generations by utilizing the latest advances in plant science."

Danforth Center's team of researchers will use the $25 million gift to further expand the center's capability in the research for better renewable sources of energy. Aside from the $25 million given to the Danforth Center, the Enterprise Rent-A-Car has also pledged to fund the planting of 50 million trees in the country's national forests over the next 50 years. Converted to current monetary value, the Enterprise Rent-A-Car will be spending another $50 million.

After the donation of the $25 million by Jack and Susan Taylor, Andrew Taylor, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise Rent-A-Car has this to say: "For 50 years, this company that my father built from the ground up has relied on the availability of vehicles and fuel. Today, more than ever, it is essential that we pursue new energy sources that will sustain not only our business, but also the environment around us for future generations. The creation of the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute for Renewable Fuels sends a clear message that my family and our company are committed to help address this critical public need."

The newly created institute will be headed by a distinguished scientific leader in the renewable biofuel field. Though the center has yet to name the said scientist, they are positive that under his or her leadership, the institute will be making great advances in the alternative fuel field. To support the expansion of the center's research capability, an additional 12 new scientists will be hired over the next three years. They will join the 18 scientists currently employed by the center.

>From the dedication that every sector is showing in the development of alternative fuels, it seems that the global community is finally addressing the global warming issue. These steps are done in hope that they would act like EBC Greenstuff brake parts in putting a stop to the deterioration of the environment.

by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Camaro Gear Basis for Gm's Big Caddy

It is still not clear whether General Motors will use the same rear wheel drive platform used for the new Chevrolet Camaro or an all-wheel drive for its ultra-luxury Cadillac. GM Vice Chairman and product guru Robert Lutz recently told journalists at the Chicago Auto Show that it was a possibility. And if ever it does push through, one thing is for sure, quality auto parts and accessories such as GM carpet kits are going to be utilized for the ultra luxury Cadillac.

Lutz also noted that as part of their global product strategy, the automaker would have lesser but more flexible platforms that would accommodate a much wider range of vehicles and designs. And an example of which is the new Camaro platform which could be used for other vehicles. Lutz has also given a hint why the launching of the new Camaro is delayed but he also added that the Camaro is scheduled to appear in 2009. The automaker has extended the utility of the fundamental architecture of the new Camaro so that it could be used as the platform for other vehicles.

According to Lutz, "What you've got to understand is that we've got this modular product architecture kit where we have two different lengths of rear overhang. So we can modify those elements any way we want. In the case of the Camaro, it's long short. If, for instance, we wanted to do a very large rear-wheel-drive Cadillac with more than eight cylinders you could do long, long, long." He also added, "Its like a Lego set-you weld them together anyway you want."

But for now GM has not yet released any official statement whether they are going ahead with their plan of producing an ultra-luxury Cadillac. However, Mark LaNeve, GM Vice President of Sales, Service and Marketing said that they would like to push through with the plan of creating an upscale Cadillac that can compete with cars such as the new Lexus LS460 or the BMW 7-series.

Lutz remarks shows one of the new realities that will have a significant influence on the automotive industry in the coming years. Capital is becoming scarce and except for Toyota, the cost of borrowing has gone up dramatically for automakers all over the world which lead them to explore various options that would help them in conserving capital like for instance spinning off more products from one basic investment which has become the trend among automakers today.

Lutz also mentioned that General Motors is continuously pooling all of its product resources from around the world. He said, "It doesn't matter where it is. It's all one organization. We've finally realized not every region has to do its own product." He further added that even the decisions on the engines to use in which products that traditionally been the responsibility of the regional managers are being shaped by global forces now. "One of the answers, which is being increasingly adopted in Europe and we plan to use it too, is to use engines in cars that are fundamentally way too small and then turbocharged them. You could envision (the Pontiac G8) with four-cylinder Cobalt engine but turbocharged to 270 to 280 horsepower. That's a formula that works great for fuel economy because when you're not in the acceleration game you're cruising along on a tiny, little engine. Trouble is that it costs about $1400. Nothing is for free. I think we found with direct fuel injection is we found it boosts power faster that it boosts fuel economy; I think we would have preferred the opposite."

by Noah Scott
- ---
Author info:

Noah Scott is a 30 year old native of New Jersey, writer, and car fan - having grown up with both parents being auto enthusiasts. He works for an automotive consultancy firm and regularly contributes articles to car magazines.

Gm to Launch International Car Lines

GM's VP of Global Product Development, Jim Queen has told Motor Trend recently regarding their upcoming international car lines. He said that the automaker's Australian RWD platform is going to be used as basis for both the Pontiac G8 and Chevy Camaro. General Motors is also reportedly contemplating on using the same platform for its next generation Cadillacs and of course since GM has already expressed its interest in creating environmentally friendly vehicles you can bet that a GM catalytic converter will be a part of the whole Caddy equation.

The only large RWD car that is not built on this platform is going to be used as the basis for the next Corvette and possibly for the XLR. Queen also said that the C7 Corvette will be equipped with a naturally aspirated V8 and RWD. In terms of power it is expected that C7 will have around 700 horsepower for the top end model. Queen has not commented on the possible selling price of the C7. But he did say, "We're working hard to get the power onto the pavement," further saying that weight and weight distribution are the keys.

Likewise, the twinning of Opel and Saturn will also continue. The freshly built Korean-Opel Antara has been recently launched in the European market and will later be introduced as the 2008 Saturn Vue as announced before at the Chicago Show.

The Saturn will also have body enhancements basing on the Europe-built compact, the Astra.--The three-door and five-door hatchbacks were previously unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show. The sedan and a coupe-cabrio called the TwinTop will make its transition to Saturns as part of the upcoming international car lines of GM.

GM's Vauxhall VXR8 Revealed
It was a really sad day for motoring enthusiasts in Britain when production of the Monaro was stopped. The Monaro is the only Australian-built car to reach the UK market. The Monaro became a hit in the UK for the very reason that it offered raw and exciting performance made possible by its 6.0 litre V8 and RWD set up.

The Monaro was taken off the market by Vauxhall in order to change it with a more powerful model, the Aussie muscle car VXR8. The new powerful saloon is powered by the same 6.0 litre V8 found on the Monaro however the VXR8 will have engine revisions to boost its efficiency. And with its new engine it is expected that the VXR8 will be able to deliver a potent 420PS and 550Nm of torque giving it the ability to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a matter of 4.9 seconds.

The VXR8 also features practical and spacious boot, climate control, and leather trim. It also contains driving aid features such as stability system and traction control which are very easy to operate with its push button features. The VXR8 is also equipped with 365mm front disc brakes which slow down the car from 60 mph to a complete stop faster than the Lamborghini Murcielago or the BMW M5.

The VXR8 will also be the first VXR model that will have an automatic gearbox. And for an optional £1400 self-shifter the VXR8 will have a manual override and a sport setting which boost its performance. Satellite navigation and 20 inch wheels are also offered as options for those who prefer to set their VXR8 apart from the rest. And the best about the VXR8 is its price which will soon be announced by GM is around half the price of other cars with the same comparable performance.

by Noah Scott
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Author info:

Noah Scott is a 30 year old native of New Jersey, writer, and car fan - having grown up with both parents being auto enthusiasts. He works for an automotive consultancy firm and regularly contributes articles to car magazines.

Oshkosh Trucks to Produce Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles

Oshkosh Trucks has always been known for producing severe-duty trucks. They have been also known to produce fire trucks, ambulances, concrete mixers, trash haulers, tow trucks, and snow plow trucks. All of these vehicles have been quite popular and has been recognized to offer reliability and endurance. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the company has been commissioned by the US Marine Corps to produce military vehicles.

The company recently announced that they have been awarded by the US Marine Corps Systems Command with a $30.6 million contract. The production grant is for the assembly of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles. These vehicles will be employed by the said government agency in battlefields where US troops are currently deployed.

Oshkosh Trucks will be producing 100 units of the CategoryI1 MRAP and the first batch of which will be delivered within 120 days as per specified by the US Marine Corps. The speedy production is needed since the US Marine Corps has an urgent demand for such vehicles. Aside from this though, Oshkosh has already produced vehicles for the military and this may be one of the reasons why they have been chosen to undertake the production of the MRAP vehicles.

The MRAP vehicle program by the US Marine Corps needs more or less 4,100 Category I and Category II vehicles. The government is expected to spend more than $2 billion in the said undertaking. Aside from the production cost of the vehicles, the government is also expected to spend more in the long run since these vehicles will be constantly up-armored to cope with the situation in the battlefields which can prove to be tough and really rough. The Category I vehicles that Oshkosh will be producing is the smaller of the two MRAP vehicles. These are intended for urban warfare and are referred to as the Mine Resistant Utility Vehicle.

Following the awarding of the production grant, Robert G. Bohn, the Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Oshkosh Trucks has commented that: "Oshkosh is prepared to meet and exceed the critical delivery and protection requirements of the US Marine Corps and the MRAP program. The armored vehicles we have proposed are engineered to save lives in the face of today's asymmetric warfare threats such as mines and IEDs. Our production and engineering capabilities will ensure the rapid delivery of world-class armored vehicles as the MRAP program continues to develop."

The MRAP program is a joint venture between the Marine Corps and the US Army. The program is under the Rapid Deployment Capability authority - the aim of which is to deploy armored vehicles for the US troops in theatre or place of conflict. Oshkosh is only one of the nine companies which have been awarded a production contract under the MRAP program.

Aside from the production of these vehicles, Oshkosh will also provide long-term support for the MRAP vehicles. Bohn emphasized on this fact in his statement. "We are also prepared to provide long term logistics support required by a deployed MRAP fleet. Oshkosh has the experience and infrastructure in place in the theater of operation to provide whatever level of support is required. We have maintained and up-armored thousands of vehicles, of many makes and models, at our facilities in theater over the past four years. Service installations and field service representatives are already in place, ready to support the MRAP fleet of vehicles as soon as it is operational."

Needles to say, these trucks that will be produced by Oshkosh for the Marine Corps will be as tough and as durable as EBC brake rotors, maybe even tougher. Thanks to their V-shaped hull, these vehicles are designed to deflect the force from explosion from mines and improvised explosive devices or IEDs.

by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Dispute Halts Production of Power Stroke Diesel Engines

In the effort to decrease the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by vehicles, various companies have undertaken research and development of alternative fuels. Another step that car manufacturers are taking is making their vehicles more fuel efficient. Such is the step has already been taken by the Ford Motor Company in their partnership with Navistar International Corporation. In the said partnership, Navistar supplies Ford with Power Stroke® diesel engines.

The engine is one of the most advanced diesel engines in the world today. Thanks to the research and design team of Navistar, they have succeeded in producing a diesel engine which has a significantly lower amount of greenhouse gases in its emission. Not only does the Power Stroke® engine decrease the amount of hazardous gases in its exhaust, it also offers a great performance. So good that trade editors have given the Power Stroke® equipped Ford F-250 great reviews. The design of the engine provides a huge amount of torque which diesel engines are widely known for. This torque gives vehicles great acceleration and enhances their off-road driving capabilities. This is, of course, important for trucks and SUVs.

It seems that with the partnership, Ford is on its way to maintain its leadership in the diesel engine powered vehicles market. But a recent development has shown that Ford is in danger of losing the Power Stroke® advantage for their vehicles. This is because Navistar International Corporation recently announced that they will halt the production of the said diesel engines because Ford has "stopped honoring the terms of agreement". Navistar stated that they are paying their suppliers and employees under the terms of the contract and that they expect the Ford Motor Company to do the same.

This particular roadblock in Ford's way must be resolved swiftly in order for them to continue their leadership in the diesel engine powered vehicles market. Since the company has been sliding down for the past years, they need to fix this problem immediately if they want to take advantage of the revolutionary Power Stroke® diesel engines. After all, these engines have already been making waves in the industry, and the public is eagerly waiting to get their hands on a Ford vehicle equipped with the said engine.

It can be remembered that Ford has posted low sales figures for January of this year and they are expected to perform not so well this month, and a problem such as this will only make matters worse for the Dearborn, Michigan based car maker. Since they are known for producing large trucks and SUVs tough and reliable as EBC rotor, the use of a diesel engine is a good step since the prices of gasoline has been unstable and can rise upward once again just like it did last summer. Aside from the increasing prices of gasoline, another problem that the Power Stroke® diesel engine addresses is the strict emission standards set by the government. Thanks to the design of the engine, the exhaust system traps most of the harmful gases rendering them harmless. This clean efficiency of the engine would no doubt increase the popularity of Ford trucks and SUVs.

The massive 6.4-liter Power Stroke® diesel engines are being produced by Navistar in their plants in Indianapolis, Indiana; and Huntsville, Alabama. Both these facilities will put a stop immediately in the production of the advanced diesel engine. They will not produce a single engine for Ford until the problem is resolved. And this will take negotiations between the two companies. While the problem is being resolved though, Navistar's Huntsville plant will be producing engines for Navistar's other customers.

by Anthony Fontanelle
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Author info:

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive.buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Detroit Meets the Autorama

The year 2007 would mark as the 55th year of existence of the Autorama. And for those who do not quite know what this event is, it is actually one of the most popular automotive events in the industry. It is held annually at the Cobo Hall in Detroit, Michigan and it is held and organized by the Michigan Hot Rod Association.

Come March 9th up until the 11th, a whole line of the hottest hot rods would be coming at the Cobo Center and they would be working up quite a sight for those hot rod enthusiasts out there. All of the vehicles that would be showing off what they have got at the Autorama would surely be having their own share of unique feature and technologies which could range from the simplest SuperChips to the high performance technologies that could allow a vehicle to park without a person driving behind the wheel.

Those who have been able to be part of the Autorama in years past would surely attest that this is one car event that car aficionados and followers should not miss. After all, it is going to be a hot rod haven and one grand event wherein car lovers of all kinds would be able to feast their eyes on a great collection and display of the best hot rods there is in the planet at present.

The space set aside for the exhibits and the display of vehicles has been measured to be around three quarters of a million square feet and you would just imagine how huge that space would be. And if you would imagine just how huge would be the space, also take time to imagine just how many vehicles would be set out on display. There are prizes at stake for the vehicles so every owner and car manufacturer is going to make sure that theirs shine and rise above the rest.

Of course it is also interesting to note that not only do regular car show goers show up at the Autorama. Some of the most popular celebrities also do rub elbows with everybody. In fact, there is already quite a list of these celebrities waiting for the show to open so they can be part of the grand festivities of the car world.

Correy Putton is a 28-year old bachelor from Pittsburgh, PA who has been around cars for the better part of his life. He now works online and writes all about his passion: cars. He is also a certified mechanic.

Bush Continues Crusade for Alternative Fuel

Last January 31, 2006, President George W. Bush outlined his plan for the widespread use of alternative fuels in the country. In his State of the Union Address last month, he announced a proposed mandate that 35 billion gallons of ethanol be produced until the year 2017. He also proposed to reduce the amount of emissions of greenhouse gasses by as much as 20 percent by the year 2017. Out of the 35 billion gallons mandated to be produced, 15 billion gallons of ethanol will come from starch while the 20 billion gallons will be from cellulose or cellulosic ethanol.

Cellulosic ethanol is a type of ethanol which comes from cellulose. This is different from the normal ethanol which comes from sugars and starches. This kind of ethanol is what Novozymes are helping to develop. The company has developed an enzyme cocktail that makes the mass production of cellulose ethanol possible. This technology is a better alternative to normal ethanol since the production of the latter causes the increase in the price of corn. This is because cellulosic ethanol comes from biomass including wastes from urban, agricultural, and forestry sources. In the production of this type of ethanol, no toxic emissions are generated which makes it a better alternative than other fuels.

Novozymes recently received a very distinguished guest - the President himself. Bush toured the facility’s laboratories and he also did pose for pictures with the workers of the company. The visit of the President at the facility is a part of his effort to boost the morale of those working in the alternative fuel industry. Aside from the financial support of the administration in the form of $2 billion aid in the funding of cellulosic ethanol plants, he also provides moral support though his visits to those plants such as that one in Novozymes.

The use of ethanol as fuel for cars in the United States is a part of the administration’s effort to address the problem of global warming. Ethanol is a good substitute to gasoline since it burns cleaner than gasoline. The only thing to consider about the use of ethanol as fuel is its corrosive nature. Without fortification, engine parts like Volvo 240 parts will be corroded. To combat this corrosive nature of ethanol, car manufacturers and engine designers fortify different components of the car to take on the corrosive nature of ethanol.

With the increasing awareness of the global community towards addressing the global warming issue, the United States is on its track towards making a difference. The country has been criticized in the past for being one of the major causes of the destruction of the environment. With the steps being taken by the government and the private sector, alternative fuels like ethanol will one day be the most commonly used fuel by the majority on US roads. Aside from the development of ethanol as the fuel of the future, US agencies are also developing biodiesel for use of vehicles equipped with a diesel engine. Aside from these two alternative fuels, the US market is also being flooded with hybrid cars which also reduce the dependency of the country on imported oil fossil fuels.

President Bush’s commitment to the development of alternative fuel is a great boost for the industry. With the government’s backing, more and more alternative fuels can be produced which will result to cleaner emission by vehicles. The development of these alternative fuels can also increase the number of employed person in the country. It would also decrease the dependency of the country on other countries which produce oil and then later on export them to the US.

by Glady Reign
Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.

Autorama to be Held on March 9

The time for gear heads and customizers to show off their wares is fast approaching once again. For the 55th year, the Michigan Hot Rod Association will be sponsoring the AutoRama. It is also the time for car fans to take a peek on what these mechanical geniuses have been doing behind the closed doors of their garages for the days between these AutoRama events. The AutoRama, known to be the place to show off one’s automotive creation, will once again occupy the Cobo Hall in Detroit, Michigan from the 9th of March until the 11th of the same month.

What is known to be the most prestigious event of this kind will surely be a place where customizers will show off their one-of-a-kind creations. The only car show to give the AutoRama a run for its money is the Oakland Roadster Show which is held in California. But the car show being held in Motor City is regarded to be the best place to showcase one’s creations.

Car fans are invited to the show to witness some of the best customized car in the planet. Not only cars are going to be presented during the show though. Motorcycles and odd vehicles are also part of the show. These vehicles are so unique that they surely defy categorization. These are the fruits of the countless hours of labor put into the construction of such vehicles by aficionados. These machines will be competing for recognition and cash prizes during the event, not to mention huge amount of bragging rights.

Those who love vehicles will surely enjoy the sight of the beautiful machines which will be present at the event. About three quarters of a million feet square will be dedicated to showcasing each and every creation at the show. The AutoRama has been known to be the place where unique and the coolest vehicles hang out. And during the event, aficionados can take advantage of the chance to see such gorgeous machines.

There are four different general types of entries in the said event. The first one is full customs. These are vehicles which have been modified thoroughly that it does not resemble the specific make and mode of the car it is created from. Aside from increasing the aesthetic value of these full customs, their performance are also made better and made to last longer like the improvements made on Volvo 740 parts.

The second category is mild customs. These are vehicles which have undergone modifications but still resembles the original car is some ways.

The third type is rat rods. These are the cars - the bodywork looks neglected and it is sporting rust as its paintjob. But these cars’ underpinnings like the transmission and braking systems are upgraded. Unlike full customs and mild customs that are trailered to the show, these cars are driven to the show. The concept is a response to the pricy custom cars most common on cars shows. These cars are built by hand by people who own them using an assortment of vintage parts. Sometimes, a rat rod will sport different components from different models and from different makes. These parts are fitted together using the ingenuity of its builder.

The fourth class is restored classics. Unlike the rat rods whose bodywork is not given much attention, these cars are fully restored classic cars. This is a favorite among car enthusiasts since it is a symbol of powerful gas-guzzlers produced by car manufacturers in the past.

This year’s AutoRama will be attended by different celebrities. Some of the notable personalities who are scheduled to make an appearance at the show are Barry McGuiar, the Car Crazy host; Nate Robertson, the Tigers pitcher; and Spongebob Squarepants.

Glady Reign is a 32 year old is a consultant for an automotive firm based in Detroit, Mi. she is a native of the motor city and grew up around cars hence her expertise in the automotive field.

The Purpose Of The Salvage Car Auction

Salvage car auctions are becoming big business in America today. In todays more ecologically considerate world where Reduce, Re-use, Recycle has become a catch phrase, recycling of salvage vehicles has become a major player in saving our ecology. The salvage car auction offers a great way for salvage yards to buy damaged vehicles for their recycling purposes. Most generally these salvaged vehicles are taken back to salvage yard and parted out before the left over husk of the vehicle is crushed and generally sent off to be melted down to make new metal products. Thus the lawn chairs sitting on your patio, in another life, could have been your first car that you wrecked on prom night.

What Is A Salvage Car Auction?

So what is a salvage car auction? Basically most of the vehicles brought up for sale at a salvage car auction are from insurance claims. When a car is involved in an accident, the insurance company takes a look at the damage to the vehicle and other factors such as the age of the car and the Kelly Blue Book value. If the estimated cost of repairs to the vehicle is more than the value the insurance company assigns to it, then the vehicle is considered totaled and the insurance company buys the vehicle and salvages it.

The interesting point to all this is that insurance companies then sell these cars at a salvage car auction and these cars can be bought very inexpensively. What makes this such a great deal is that, while most of the cars that come thru a salvage car auction are destroyed beyond repair, some vehicles with very minor damage are considered totaled due to the age of the vehicle or the expense of a particular repair. Many times a summer hailstorm near a new car lot will result in a huge loss for the insurance company and a large number of cars that are mechanically sound but suffer from cosmetic damages. What does this mean for you?

What it means is that you can buy a new or nearly new vehicle for a very low investment at a salvage car auction so long as you can deal with the minor cosmetic flaws such as dinged paint or chipped windshields. So it is quite easy to see that salvage car auctions serve a purpose in our society and can make for some wonderful savings.

by Mark Lindsay
If you are looking for a car auction you should stop by the best online car auction site.