Jules Verne, the famous science fiction writer of more than 100 years ago, once said, "...I believe that water will one day be employed as a fuel." He was right, and there are prototype future cars to prove it. In fact, there are ordinary cars too using water as a main constituent of the fuel being burned in the car.
In the past 10 years, over 100 prototype future cars have been launched to the public by many of the major car companies worldwide. Hardly anyone knows about them, however, and hardly anyone cares, it seems.
These cars are not being made by unknown car companies, but by names such as, Honda, DaimlerChrysler, BMW, Toyota, Ford, Nissan, and GM. All of these household car names currently have prototype future cars on show.
These cars usually have a unique power source, or a more efficient version of an existing one. Hydrogen powered cars feature a lot in prototype future cars, as do electric cars. In fact, the Kaz Limousine Eliica from Japan is very unusual among prototype future cars. It is powered by lithium-ion batteries and can zip up to a highly impressive 240 miles per hour!
Jules Verne's belief that water would be employed as a fuel is being proven correct with the popular adaption of standard internal combustion engines to run on a mixture of gasoline and HHO. The HHO, a stable gas of two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen, is produced by electrolysis using the car battery and some water.
This is not the same as prototype future cars is the strictest sense, but using water as a fuel source has long been a dream, and now the dream has come true. It is reasonable to assume that someone will take up the idea and produce prototype future cars that don't use kits, but that have all they need to burn water built into their production.
In today's atmosphere of keeping the environment pollution-free, the idea of powering a car on air is an attractive one. It may therefore interest you to learn that there are prototype future cars that can do just that! The MDI City-CAT (compressed air technology) uses air as its motive force and rightly claims to be the cleanest car around.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A Sneak Preview Of Audi's E-Tron Concept Vehicle
Audi e-tron model range have surfaced and showed to public the features of the design. Previewed by the original e-tron concept, the R8 e-Tron will be launched in 2012. Audi's latest release of e-Tron has triggered speculation about the performance of this electric concept car. But enthusiast will have to wait for 2 more years before e-Tron will be rolled out in market.
Electric vehicles is the main focus of automotive engineers which is predicted to replace the diesel and gasoline powered cars. Electric vehicles are favored for by environmentalist for it releases almost zero pollutants.
Electric vehicles is the main focus of automotive engineers which is predicted to replace the diesel and gasoline powered cars. Electric vehicles are favored for by environmentalist for it releases almost zero pollutants.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Putting The Luxury In A Luxury Vehicle
Owning a luxury vehicle is a desire most people have. Who doesn't want to travel in the highest form of comfort and style? So what makes a vehicle luxurious and who makes these vehicles?
Adding luxury to a vehicle can include many things from genuine leather upholstery and polished woodgrain-looking dashboards to customized rims or chrome. Having a luxury car can also include the newest and latest safety features. Most luxury features trickle down to becoming a common feature in most cars, such as the concept of anti-lock breaks, heated seats or DVD entertainment systems.
But owning luxury means you get the latest technology and the best before anybody else does. So what types of features are luxury vehicles offering these days to stay ahead of the pack? They include:
1. In-dash CD changer: There was a time that CD changers were always in the trunk, which was completely impractical. Today, many luxury vehicles are coming with in-dash units that can play six CDs. This might be limited if the vehicle comes with a navigational system, which takes up the dash space and therefore puts the CD chaner back into the glove compartment, center console, trunk or cargo area, or under a seat.
2. Adaptive cruise control: This one is a safety feature and you may have seen the commercials for this. Adaptive cruise control uses radar or lasers to determine the distance to the vehicle in front of your car and then adjusts the speed accordingly, Many systems alert drivers if the vehicle in front decelerates abruptly.
3. Adaptive suspension: Want control of your ride, how bumpy or smooth it may be? This is where adaptive suspension comes in handy as it controls firmness of individual struts or shock absorbers, changing a vehicle's ride within milliseconds. Advanced systems sense road conditions and stiffen suspension points to provide appropriate handling. Some systems allow you to select your own suspension, making it have both automatic and manual.
4. Advanced climate controls: Dual-zone automatic climate controls have been around for a while, especially in large vehicles. The advanced climate control allows fan speeds and airflow to vary between the two zones. The driver can program warmer air to hit their feet, while the passenger opts for cooler air to blow toward their face.
5. Heated steering wheel: Electrically heated steering wheels heat faster than traditional climate-control systems, warming hands long before the ambient air does. Most operate at the push of a button, though some automatically activate when the seat heaters are switched on.
6. Onboard data processor: An onboard processor should minimally operate as an advanced trip computer that reports relevant vehicle statistics. On pricier vehicles in this class, the feature may include a hard drive that stores music, maintenance files and navigation data.
7. Massaging seats: Okay, this is definitely luxury. This is one of the newest innovations, which is available for both front and rear seats. Some systems, such as use liquid-filled bladders that slowly flow from one side to the other; others use embedded motors. The idea is to relieve fatigue for long trips of sitting.
8. Refrigerator: Want to keep your favorite beverages cooled? Do you live in a hot climate where just about everything goes from cool to extremely warm in minutes? Then you might want a refrigerator in your vehicle. This refrigerator is typically mounted between the rear seats.
9. Panoramic moonroof: These moonroofs are essentially a fixed glass pane placed behind an existing moonroof. Panoramic moonroofs give the cabin a more airy, open feel - especially over the backseat.
The list can go on, depending on what make or model you choose or the amount of money you are willing to spend. Of course if you don't have the kind of money it requires to buy extreme luxury, just wait a few years and it is possible these features will be in a car within your budget.
About the Author
Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV's. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.
Adding luxury to a vehicle can include many things from genuine leather upholstery and polished woodgrain-looking dashboards to customized rims or chrome. Having a luxury car can also include the newest and latest safety features. Most luxury features trickle down to becoming a common feature in most cars, such as the concept of anti-lock breaks, heated seats or DVD entertainment systems.
But owning luxury means you get the latest technology and the best before anybody else does. So what types of features are luxury vehicles offering these days to stay ahead of the pack? They include:
1. In-dash CD changer: There was a time that CD changers were always in the trunk, which was completely impractical. Today, many luxury vehicles are coming with in-dash units that can play six CDs. This might be limited if the vehicle comes with a navigational system, which takes up the dash space and therefore puts the CD chaner back into the glove compartment, center console, trunk or cargo area, or under a seat.
2. Adaptive cruise control: This one is a safety feature and you may have seen the commercials for this. Adaptive cruise control uses radar or lasers to determine the distance to the vehicle in front of your car and then adjusts the speed accordingly, Many systems alert drivers if the vehicle in front decelerates abruptly.
3. Adaptive suspension: Want control of your ride, how bumpy or smooth it may be? This is where adaptive suspension comes in handy as it controls firmness of individual struts or shock absorbers, changing a vehicle's ride within milliseconds. Advanced systems sense road conditions and stiffen suspension points to provide appropriate handling. Some systems allow you to select your own suspension, making it have both automatic and manual.
4. Advanced climate controls: Dual-zone automatic climate controls have been around for a while, especially in large vehicles. The advanced climate control allows fan speeds and airflow to vary between the two zones. The driver can program warmer air to hit their feet, while the passenger opts for cooler air to blow toward their face.
5. Heated steering wheel: Electrically heated steering wheels heat faster than traditional climate-control systems, warming hands long before the ambient air does. Most operate at the push of a button, though some automatically activate when the seat heaters are switched on.
6. Onboard data processor: An onboard processor should minimally operate as an advanced trip computer that reports relevant vehicle statistics. On pricier vehicles in this class, the feature may include a hard drive that stores music, maintenance files and navigation data.
7. Massaging seats: Okay, this is definitely luxury. This is one of the newest innovations, which is available for both front and rear seats. Some systems, such as use liquid-filled bladders that slowly flow from one side to the other; others use embedded motors. The idea is to relieve fatigue for long trips of sitting.
8. Refrigerator: Want to keep your favorite beverages cooled? Do you live in a hot climate where just about everything goes from cool to extremely warm in minutes? Then you might want a refrigerator in your vehicle. This refrigerator is typically mounted between the rear seats.
9. Panoramic moonroof: These moonroofs are essentially a fixed glass pane placed behind an existing moonroof. Panoramic moonroofs give the cabin a more airy, open feel - especially over the backseat.
The list can go on, depending on what make or model you choose or the amount of money you are willing to spend. Of course if you don't have the kind of money it requires to buy extreme luxury, just wait a few years and it is possible these features will be in a car within your budget.
About the Author
Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV's. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Regal GS Concept
Although the Regal GS is officially a concept car, it won't take much to bring this one to market, since it's very similar to the Opel Insignia OPC already on sale in Europe.
Toyota in Tokyo Motor Show
Toyota will display advanced technology vehicles, including the small FT-EV II concept unveiled last fall at the Tokyo Motor Show and a Toyota Prius Plug-in.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Mahindra SCORPIO W GETWAY
Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is really overwhelming, when it comes to performance. It houses CRDe engine technology, making this SUV really powerful and resilient enough to fulfill your adventurous zeal. Also, with 80 liter fuel tank capacity, you can always bank on this lifestyle SUV for a long and extensive drive.
The spunky spirit. Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is a lifestyle SUV par excellence, offered from the Scorpio stable. It is exclusively designed for the younger generations, who want to spruce up their lifestyle.
Key Features Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is really overwhelming, when it comes to performance. It houses CRDe engine technology, making this SUV really powerful and resilient enough to fulfill your adventurous zeal. Also, with 80 liter fuel tank capacity, you can always bank on this lifestyle SUV for a long and extensive drive. Other well designed features such as efficient brakes, 5-speed manual transmission, tilt adjustable power steering, and 5.6m turning radius, add further value to this SUV. Even the multi-function steering wheel is specially designed to make your journey more enthralling and exhaling. Even the crash protecting crumple zones are a good addition, when safety is concerned.
Design Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is a lifestyle SUV with an interior as well as exterior design that fully takes care of your convenience; after all what is lifestyle without the touch of convenience. You enjoy spacious interior which allows at least 5 passengers. Most importantly, its full fabric seat with fire resistant upholstery gives you not only comfort but also safety. Things get even better as with the inclusion of electrically adjustable outside mirrors and the driver door mounted controls.
Cons Mahindra SCORPIO W GETWAY has positioned itself as a lifestyle SUV; but interestingly it does not offer music system, which is a concern for a real music lover. Plus, double cab concept is new; something that has not caught on in India as yet.
Conclusion To conclude, Mahindra Scorpio W Getway looks fantastic, feels well engineered and drives well. It is perfect for young trekkers who like to work hard and enjoy harder.
About the Author
Albert Cain is a well known writer. He has written many articles on, Automobiles, motorbikes, cars, health care, scooter, and so on.
The spunky spirit. Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is a lifestyle SUV par excellence, offered from the Scorpio stable. It is exclusively designed for the younger generations, who want to spruce up their lifestyle.
Key Features Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is really overwhelming, when it comes to performance. It houses CRDe engine technology, making this SUV really powerful and resilient enough to fulfill your adventurous zeal. Also, with 80 liter fuel tank capacity, you can always bank on this lifestyle SUV for a long and extensive drive. Other well designed features such as efficient brakes, 5-speed manual transmission, tilt adjustable power steering, and 5.6m turning radius, add further value to this SUV. Even the multi-function steering wheel is specially designed to make your journey more enthralling and exhaling. Even the crash protecting crumple zones are a good addition, when safety is concerned.
Design Mahindra Scorpio W Getway is a lifestyle SUV with an interior as well as exterior design that fully takes care of your convenience; after all what is lifestyle without the touch of convenience. You enjoy spacious interior which allows at least 5 passengers. Most importantly, its full fabric seat with fire resistant upholstery gives you not only comfort but also safety. Things get even better as with the inclusion of electrically adjustable outside mirrors and the driver door mounted controls.
Cons Mahindra SCORPIO W GETWAY has positioned itself as a lifestyle SUV; but interestingly it does not offer music system, which is a concern for a real music lover. Plus, double cab concept is new; something that has not caught on in India as yet.
Conclusion To conclude, Mahindra Scorpio W Getway looks fantastic, feels well engineered and drives well. It is perfect for young trekkers who like to work hard and enjoy harder.
About the Author
Albert Cain is a well known writer. He has written many articles on, Automobiles, motorbikes, cars, health care, scooter, and so on.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Peugeot Unveils Its Innovative New Concept The BB1 - Mobility For The Future
Last night saw the unveiling of Peugeot's innovative new concept, the BB1 at The Hospital Club in London.
With its BB1 concept, Peugeot has created a totally new solution to the current and future needs of urban mobility. The BB1 concept is the first ever full electric vehicle that can seat up to four adults in a space of just 2.5m.
This compact vehicle is a fusion between car and scooter, whilst offering passengers a safer, more comfortable and weatherproof environment. Other advantages of this ground-breaking concept are that it has zero emissions, is easy to park and has a range of 75 miles, making it a perfect choice for city centre transport.
Jon Goodman, Managing Director of Peugeot Motor Company comments; "Peugeot is constantly pooling its expertise and creativity to design particularly innovative and original projects. The BB1 is the brainchild of this successful collaboration."
The BB1 concept pushes back the boundaries, creating an inventive, fun, expressive and stylish vehicle. This electric vehicle is a logical addition to a vehicle line up that incorporates Peugeot bicycles, scooters, cars and light commercial vehicles. It aims to explore new ground with regards to urban mobility, with the environment close at heart."
The BB1 concept is both environmentally friendly and efficient, fitted with two electric motors mounted in the rear wheels maximizing the interior space and two lithium-ion battery packs supplying energy to the respective electric motors located under the right and left-hand rear seats. The BB1 emits no loud noise outside the vehicle and, above all, no pollutant emissions. The passenger compartment ventilation keeps operating in daylight thanks to the solar panels placed on the roof of the vehicle.
The Peugeot BB1 will be on show in Covent Garden, London from 10 am until 7 pm, on the 7th and 8th November, enabling the general public to have a close up look into the future of urban mobility.
For more information on the BB1 please log onto http://www.bb1-peugeot.com/ or for your chance to see the BB1 for yourself, go to London's Covent Garden on the 7th and 8th November.
This social media news release and more content is available at: -
http://blogit.realwire.com/?ReleaseID=14170
About the Author
Peugeot: - http://www.bb1-peugeot.com/
With its BB1 concept, Peugeot has created a totally new solution to the current and future needs of urban mobility. The BB1 concept is the first ever full electric vehicle that can seat up to four adults in a space of just 2.5m.
This compact vehicle is a fusion between car and scooter, whilst offering passengers a safer, more comfortable and weatherproof environment. Other advantages of this ground-breaking concept are that it has zero emissions, is easy to park and has a range of 75 miles, making it a perfect choice for city centre transport.
Jon Goodman, Managing Director of Peugeot Motor Company comments; "Peugeot is constantly pooling its expertise and creativity to design particularly innovative and original projects. The BB1 is the brainchild of this successful collaboration."
The BB1 concept pushes back the boundaries, creating an inventive, fun, expressive and stylish vehicle. This electric vehicle is a logical addition to a vehicle line up that incorporates Peugeot bicycles, scooters, cars and light commercial vehicles. It aims to explore new ground with regards to urban mobility, with the environment close at heart."
The BB1 concept is both environmentally friendly and efficient, fitted with two electric motors mounted in the rear wheels maximizing the interior space and two lithium-ion battery packs supplying energy to the respective electric motors located under the right and left-hand rear seats. The BB1 emits no loud noise outside the vehicle and, above all, no pollutant emissions. The passenger compartment ventilation keeps operating in daylight thanks to the solar panels placed on the roof of the vehicle.
The Peugeot BB1 will be on show in Covent Garden, London from 10 am until 7 pm, on the 7th and 8th November, enabling the general public to have a close up look into the future of urban mobility.
For more information on the BB1 please log onto http://www.bb1-peugeot.com/ or for your chance to see the BB1 for yourself, go to London's Covent Garden on the 7th and 8th November.
This social media news release and more content is available at: -
http://blogit.realwire.com/?ReleaseID=14170
About the Author
Peugeot: - http://www.bb1-peugeot.com/
Monday, July 27, 2009
The Fast Modernization of Sports Cars
Modernization of sports cars has been unstoppable. The concept of the sports car generated by Enzo Ferrari's in 1929 was the beginning of the sports car industry. He was the one that lead the way for other car manufacturers to follow the design of the Ferrari sports car.
The great designs of the Ferrari are well known for their car racing success and the Ferrari is the most extravagant and successful racing team in the history of Formula One racing. Ferrari has produced cars that have fascinated the world with their versions of the sports car and have promoted drivers like Michael Schumacher and Alberto Ascari in the world-wide sport of car racing.
The F430 is the flagship of Ferrari. This sports car is a muscular two-seat coupe, which was reengineered last year. It has became the most sought after car this year because of its great performance and affordable price of $161,000 which is considerably lower in price then most cars in its class.
The most current release of the Ferrari is the Superamerica hardtop convertible, which is priced $300,000. It became the hottest seller when it was displayed in all showrooms of the Ferrari in the United States. It has an awesome yet powerful V-12 engine and the design of the transmission came from the F-1 version. The standard package on all models of the Ferrari contains transmission paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The roof of the Superamerica makes it an awesome display of engineering and imaginative design. The roof is made from electro chromic glass and carbon fiber. The driver can change the setting of the car from the elegant coupe to a more exotic open-air sports car.
Because of the fast modernization of Ferrari versions, the company has acquired ownership of the Maserati in 1997 - a long time competitor in the production of sports cars. Since then, it has boosted the sales of Maserati and modernized the production facilities of the company. It also started producing new models like the Quattroporte hardtop, which is priced at $95,000 and the Spyder GT convertible that is priced at $83,000.
Ferrari is considered the super performance car. It made its mark on the sports car industry because of the extraordinary designs and modified engineering of their sports cars. There are also other car manufacturers that are still making names for themselves in the sports car industry. The Chevrolet Corvette and the Dodge Viper are also awesome in their designs. The Porsche Carr era can be compared to the Ferrari with its power and is even more expensive at $440,000.
About the Author
I just make some blogs that may be useful for you. That is about the Motorcycle Part, Computer Hardware and Computer Games. If you are interested you can visit my blog and get all the information about the topics. It's FREE... Thanks You.
The great designs of the Ferrari are well known for their car racing success and the Ferrari is the most extravagant and successful racing team in the history of Formula One racing. Ferrari has produced cars that have fascinated the world with their versions of the sports car and have promoted drivers like Michael Schumacher and Alberto Ascari in the world-wide sport of car racing.
The F430 is the flagship of Ferrari. This sports car is a muscular two-seat coupe, which was reengineered last year. It has became the most sought after car this year because of its great performance and affordable price of $161,000 which is considerably lower in price then most cars in its class.
The most current release of the Ferrari is the Superamerica hardtop convertible, which is priced $300,000. It became the hottest seller when it was displayed in all showrooms of the Ferrari in the United States. It has an awesome yet powerful V-12 engine and the design of the transmission came from the F-1 version. The standard package on all models of the Ferrari contains transmission paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The roof of the Superamerica makes it an awesome display of engineering and imaginative design. The roof is made from electro chromic glass and carbon fiber. The driver can change the setting of the car from the elegant coupe to a more exotic open-air sports car.
Because of the fast modernization of Ferrari versions, the company has acquired ownership of the Maserati in 1997 - a long time competitor in the production of sports cars. Since then, it has boosted the sales of Maserati and modernized the production facilities of the company. It also started producing new models like the Quattroporte hardtop, which is priced at $95,000 and the Spyder GT convertible that is priced at $83,000.
Ferrari is considered the super performance car. It made its mark on the sports car industry because of the extraordinary designs and modified engineering of their sports cars. There are also other car manufacturers that are still making names for themselves in the sports car industry. The Chevrolet Corvette and the Dodge Viper are also awesome in their designs. The Porsche Carr era can be compared to the Ferrari with its power and is even more expensive at $440,000.
About the Author
I just make some blogs that may be useful for you. That is about the Motorcycle Part, Computer Hardware and Computer Games. If you are interested you can visit my blog and get all the information about the topics. It's FREE... Thanks You.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Future Hybrid Cars May Mean Survival for Big 3 Automakers
Automobile makers are now in a race to come out with the most efficient hybrid car that can be sold to the masses. In the center of these is the hunt for the most robust hybrid batteries. At present, hybrid cars are using lead acid and NiMH batteries but companies are looking at lithium ion batteries to be used for future hybrid cars.
Improvement in the technology will result in lighter, cheaper and more efficient batteries. That would make way for more cost efficient hybrid cars in the future. Today hybrid vehicles account for less than 5-percent of the cars on the road but hopefully in the future hybrids will be the standard for a cleaner Earth.
Ford and Toyota full hybrids will benefit from these technological breakthroughs in batteries along with GM and is long awaited Chevy Volt PHEV. There are speculations that Toyota will use lithium ion batteries in the next generation Prius but the details have not been worked out yet.
There are various trends with regards to the future of hybrid cars. One of which is diesel hybrid. Diesel engines are more fuel efficient than their gasoline counterparts. Therefore, diesel hybrids will be more efficient than gasoline hybrids. Ford has the Reflex Diesel Hybrid. Small players are coming out with their own versions especially for the European marketplace.
Another type of hybrid in the works is the flex fuel hybrid. This type uses ethanol or other bio-fuels. These alternative fuels can be cheaper than fossil fuels and countries won't have to rely on imported oil.
Then there are the controversial plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) making waves recently. There are people criticizing this hybrid type saying it's not a viable solution but scientific studies show that it is cleaner than gasoline-only and cheaper to maintain as well. In the future, the energy needed to charge the car can come from solar or wind power or other renewable sources.
Companies, such as Toyota and Ford are working on hybrids that run on hydrogen instead of gasoline. Most of the major car manufacturers are already testing hydrogen hybrids. If the tests turn out to have positive results then we can expect hydrogen refilling stations dotting the future landscape. California is very actively engaging this research right now.
Whether one is talking about mild hybrids, full hybrids, plug-in hybrids or hybrids in combination with flex fuel or hydrogen vehicles, the future is bright for high MPG cars. In fact, hybrids might just mean the survival of the Big 3 Detroit automakers.
About the Author
Copyright © 2009 Tom Harris, all rights reserved.
Tom Harris writes about cars and trucks and promotes Victorville Hesperia Apple Valley Adelanto, CA transmission repair as a way to keep one's current vehicle a little longer.
Improvement in the technology will result in lighter, cheaper and more efficient batteries. That would make way for more cost efficient hybrid cars in the future. Today hybrid vehicles account for less than 5-percent of the cars on the road but hopefully in the future hybrids will be the standard for a cleaner Earth.
Ford and Toyota full hybrids will benefit from these technological breakthroughs in batteries along with GM and is long awaited Chevy Volt PHEV. There are speculations that Toyota will use lithium ion batteries in the next generation Prius but the details have not been worked out yet.
There are various trends with regards to the future of hybrid cars. One of which is diesel hybrid. Diesel engines are more fuel efficient than their gasoline counterparts. Therefore, diesel hybrids will be more efficient than gasoline hybrids. Ford has the Reflex Diesel Hybrid. Small players are coming out with their own versions especially for the European marketplace.
Another type of hybrid in the works is the flex fuel hybrid. This type uses ethanol or other bio-fuels. These alternative fuels can be cheaper than fossil fuels and countries won't have to rely on imported oil.
Then there are the controversial plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) making waves recently. There are people criticizing this hybrid type saying it's not a viable solution but scientific studies show that it is cleaner than gasoline-only and cheaper to maintain as well. In the future, the energy needed to charge the car can come from solar or wind power or other renewable sources.
Companies, such as Toyota and Ford are working on hybrids that run on hydrogen instead of gasoline. Most of the major car manufacturers are already testing hydrogen hybrids. If the tests turn out to have positive results then we can expect hydrogen refilling stations dotting the future landscape. California is very actively engaging this research right now.
Whether one is talking about mild hybrids, full hybrids, plug-in hybrids or hybrids in combination with flex fuel or hydrogen vehicles, the future is bright for high MPG cars. In fact, hybrids might just mean the survival of the Big 3 Detroit automakers.
About the Author
Copyright © 2009 Tom Harris, all rights reserved.
Tom Harris writes about cars and trucks and promotes Victorville Hesperia Apple Valley Adelanto, CA transmission repair as a way to keep one's current vehicle a little longer.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Stylish Concept Car Range Stormer
The new styling package draws its inspiration from the 2004 Range Stormer Concept car, underlining the raw appeal of the Range Rover Sport line-up. It is available as a limited edition, factory fitted option exclusively for the Range ...
Monday, March 09, 2009
Ford offers glimpse of electric future
As the race to see who will bring out the first and more importantly best electric vehicle heats up, it looks like Ford have embraced the technology quickest. Rumours of an announcement from auto giants General Motors have grown over previous weeks and months as Ford look to establish themselves as market leaders in getting electronic vehicles worldwide.
The advances made with Ford's hybrid technology will help the company reinforce the brand when they eventually release their first electric vehicle. The first vehicle is being made in Europe and is expected to be called the Ford Transit Connect. This automobile will feature a 29KWH battery and Ford are hoping to sell approximately 100,000 in the first year.
Plans for the future include several different electronic automobiles that will be specifically aimed for the consumer market. The plan is for a Focus typed car to be available for 2011. A Ford BEV (battery electric vehicle) was given a test drive at a recent Washington Auto Fair and was meant to "Accelerate in a brisk manner" as well as making "barely a flutter of noise". Encouraging news for Ford enthusiasts.
The design of the Ford BEV is between themselves and Magna International. Magna supply the electric parts including batteries and powertrain parts, on top of designing the vehicle design and engineering. The BEV contains an in car battery charger that takes only 6 hours to charge with 220 volts, once charged the BEV will travel up to 100 miles. Unfortunately it seems like the Americans will be getting hold of this first before the European or Asian markets.
About the Author
This article was written on behalf of Foray Motor Group. Are you one of many looking to Buy Cars in Poole? if so contact Foray Motor Group who specialise in Ford Focus Poole
The advances made with Ford's hybrid technology will help the company reinforce the brand when they eventually release their first electric vehicle. The first vehicle is being made in Europe and is expected to be called the Ford Transit Connect. This automobile will feature a 29KWH battery and Ford are hoping to sell approximately 100,000 in the first year.
Plans for the future include several different electronic automobiles that will be specifically aimed for the consumer market. The plan is for a Focus typed car to be available for 2011. A Ford BEV (battery electric vehicle) was given a test drive at a recent Washington Auto Fair and was meant to "Accelerate in a brisk manner" as well as making "barely a flutter of noise". Encouraging news for Ford enthusiasts.
The design of the Ford BEV is between themselves and Magna International. Magna supply the electric parts including batteries and powertrain parts, on top of designing the vehicle design and engineering. The BEV contains an in car battery charger that takes only 6 hours to charge with 220 volts, once charged the BEV will travel up to 100 miles. Unfortunately it seems like the Americans will be getting hold of this first before the European or Asian markets.
About the Author
This article was written on behalf of Foray Motor Group. Are you one of many looking to Buy Cars in Poole? if so contact Foray Motor Group who specialise in Ford Focus Poole
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Key Reason to Buy: C-Class Gains Top Marks in US Safety Test
The respected Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the United States has named the Mercedes-Benz C-Class one of its Top Safety Picks for 2009 - the best reason to buy in terms of safety. The C-Class achieved good ratings in all the safety criteria which were examined.
Each year, the experts at the IIHS rate new vehicle models based on stringent safety criteria, thereby providing an important tool to help buyers make a decision. In the latest assessments, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class was subjected to front and side crash tests. The safety specialists in the US also evaluated protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. For all three criteria, the C-Class was awarded top marks.
This result is confirmation that the C-Class safety concept, optimised based on the analysis of real-life accidents, also performs extremely well in standardised rating crash tests. With seven airbags, belt tensioners, belt force limiters and NECK PRO crash-responsive head restraints fitted as standard, the Saloon offers its occupants an extremely high level of protection should an accident occur. The body structure has been designed to ensure that, in the event of a frontal collision, the impact forces are distributed over a wide area and on four independently acting impact levels, meaning that the passenger compartment remains largely undamaged. Around 70 percent of all the bodyshell panels are made from state-of-the-art, high-strength steel alloys that minimise weight and maximise safety.
Furthermore, the C-Class is the world's only car in this market segment to feature an anticipatory occupant protection system in the shape of PRE-SAFE as an option. This Mercedes-Benz innovation uses the time between detection of a potential accident situation and a possible collision to initiate preventive protective measures, thus reducing the loads exerted on the occupants in the event of a crash by up to 40 percent.
By rating the C-Class a Top Safety Pick 2009, the IIHS has confirmed the vehicle's extremely good performance in crash tests conforming to Euro NCAP (the European New Car Assessment Programme) in which the C-Class was awarded five stars, making it one of the safest cars on the market.
About the Author
Mercedes-Benz dealers in Thailand again reaffirm the Mercedes-Benz vehicles' position as the market leader for safety technology and trendsetting innovation.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Eco-Friendly Transportation of the Future
With so many advancements in technology, it's no wonder that methods of eco-friendly transportation are improving year after year. From fuel cells to magnet power to hybrids and on and on, here's a look at eco-friendly transportation of now and in the future:
Vehicles
While hybrid vehicles have become more popular thanks to rapidly increasing gas prices over the last few years, there are other eco-friendly vehicle options being researched and tested. Some options you may hear about in the next few years include compressed natural gas or CNG, also called "BioGas", ethanol, other biofuels and liquid petroleum gas. Electric vehicles are also making a comeback, with Chevrolet recently announcing their new "Volt". In Europe, so-called "Smart Cars" are becoming popular. With their small, yet functional size and superior fuel efficiency, "Smart Cars" are a good choice for smaller European roads.
Trains
Many of today's newest trains are powered by magnet technology. Today's "green train" uses a permanent magnet motor, which is a modern engine technology that enables increased propulsion chain efficiency. This type of motor results in lesser operating costs as well as far reduced environmental impact. In addition, the "green trains" have an assistance system in place that reduces traction energy.
Buses
New buses are being tested in areas of the US that use biofuels instead of diesel fuel. Even in New Delhi, India, they are trying to replace old pollution hog buses with more eco-friendly buses that use compressed natural gas. New Delhi hopes to have 6000 of these buses in use in the next few years in order to combat the cities ever increasing pollution problems.
Air
Airplanes are also getting a makeover, not just because it's an environmentally friendly thing to do, but because it will save costs over time. In 2007, Boeing unveiled an eco-friendly plane model called the "787 Dreamliner", which Boeing claims uses 20 percent less fuel, produces 20 percent lower emissions and also decreases maintenance costs by 30 percent from typical aircraft such as the 747.
Whether it's by airplane, bus, train or car, earth friendly transportation looks like it's here to stay.
About the Author
Trans-Supply is your source for traffic safety products, airport and runway, rail and railroad, construction supplies and transportation supplies. Visit us at: http://www.trans-supply.com/
Thursday, November 13, 2008
First Drive: 2009 Mazda 6
Mazda cars are well-known already all over the world from its hometown Hiroshima, Japan up to north America and the rest of the world. Every year, Mazda Company produced more than 1 million cars from Japan and in other Mazda plants all over the world. Year after year, they introduce new model of their Cars. About the sales, its excellent. About the marketing concept of Mazda, they used the phrase "Zoom-zoom" since year 2000. This phrase means emotion to emotion. This tag-line of Mazda was spread all around the world from initial use in North America. This "Zoom-zoom" phrase brought Mazda to be well known and one of the top producer in automobile industry. Mazda aimed higher now as they are introduce the new re-model Mazda Atenza or Mazda 6. A new Mazda 6 are ready to compete with some new models of other automobile competitor like Camry of Toyota, accord by Honda, and many more models of other Car brand.
If we talk on the comparisons of old and new Mazda 6, there are lot features which really improve on the new 6. The Mazda 6 has long been an underrated car, despite having a range of admirable qualities. It has a first class driving experience because Mazda 6 have a wide range of capable engine options and the sleek. The new 2009 Mazda 6 has a special features on its accessories like curtain airbags, traction control, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and anti-pressure monitoring gadget. About the engine of old Mazda 6, is a four-cylinder, Courtesy of more displacement (2.5 liters, from 2.3 liters), The new car is bigger and more curvaceous than the current model. More about the new feature of new Mazda6, it was became bigger, smarter, and better for all car lovers. Because it has different type of models which a car buyer will enjoy in the breath taking adrenalin when you test drive this following type of 2009 Mazda6: 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 i Sports Sedan SV with an engine of 2.5L I4 170HP, range on the fuel economy of 20/29 mpg. Next is 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 i Sports Sedan Sport with 2.5L I4 170HP and 20/29 mpg. Make wave to 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 i Sports Sedan Touring having an engine of 2.5L I4 170HP fueled with 20/29 mpg. Another one is 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 s Sports Sedan Sport 3.7L V6 272HP fueled with17/25 mpg. An eye catching 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 i Sports Sedan Grand Touring 2.5L I4 170HP engines with fuel economy of 20/29 mpg. Next is an sporty adrenalin 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 s Sports Sedan Touring with engine 3.7L V6 272HP and 17/25 mpg fuel range. And a wide opening to 2009 Mazda MAZDA6 s Sports Sedan Grand Touring which having an engine of 3.7L V6 272HP, and it has a fuel range economy of 17/25 mpg.
About the cost and production of 2009 Mazda 6, the cost of this cars are range to $18,550-$28,260. And this car is available to every country which the development of the Mazda6 model is occur. The models of Mazda6 are varies in some countries. But usually, the variety of Mazda6 models are found in Japan, North America, and in Europe.
About the Author
Know more about cars by visiting Oz Free Online-place for great car deals for the best value for your money, which offers services for sell used car, used car dealer, and more.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Amazing Prototype Future Cars
Jules Verne, the famous science fiction writer of more than 100 years ago, once said, "...I believe that water will one day be employed as a fuel." He was right, and there are prototype future cars to prove it. In fact, there are ordinary cars too using water as a main constituent of the fuel being burned in the car.
In the past 10 years, over 100 prototype future cars have been launched to the public by many of the major car companies worldwide. Hardly anyone knows about them, however, and hardly anyone cares, it seems.
These cars are not being made by unknown car companies, but by names such as, Honda, DaimlerChrysler, BMW, Toyota, Ford, Nissan, and GM. All of these household car names currently have prototype future cars on show.
These cars usually have a unique power source, or a more efficient version of an existing one. Hydrogen powered cars feature a lot in prototype future cars, as do electric cars. In fact, the Kaz Limousine Eliica from Japan is very unusual among prototype future cars. It is powered by lithium-ion batteries and can zip up to a highly impressive 240 miles per hour!
Jules Verne's belief that water would be employed as a fuel is being proven correct with the popular adaption of standard internal combustion engines to run on a mixture of gasoline and HHO. The HHO, a stable gas of two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen, is produced by electrolysis using the car battery and some water.
This is not the same as prototype future cars is the strictest sense, but using water as a fuel source has long been a dream, and now the dream has come true. It is reasonable to assume that someone will take up the idea and produce prototype future cars that don't use kits, but that have all they need to burn water built into their production.
In today's atmosphere of keeping the environment pollution-free, the idea of powering a car on air is an attractive one. It may therefore interest you to learn that there are prototype future cars that can do just that! The MDI City-CAT (compressed air technology) uses air as its motive force and rightly claims to be the cleanest car around.
A cryogenic heat engine is used by the CooLN2Car. This latest offering of the prototype future cars runs on liquid nitrogen. It has been developed through research by scientists at the University of North Texas. The car is highly efficient and is causing a lot of interest.
Many of today's prototype future cars are powered by electricity. The technology has come a long way since even a few decades ago. Now electric cars have power equivalent to big engines with the capabilities of long distance travel between re-charging.
It is probably the hybrid prototype future cars that are causing the most interest, however. They tend to offer the best of all possible worlds. The hybrid motive power can be traditional gasoline, electricity, or even hydrogen. The best of the prototype future cars allows the driver to switch between power sources, depending on conditions or simply preference.
About the Author
Do You Want To Know RIGHT NOW How You Can Drive Around Using WATER as FUEL and Laugh At Rising Gas Costs,http://www.carsthatrunonwater.net/index.html While Reducing Emissions and Preventing Global Warming? http://www.carsthatrunonwater.net
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Thursday, August 28, 2008
Flying Cars: Up, Up, And Away
It's a bird. It's a plane. It's -- a flying car? Not since the red-lettered, blue bomber buzzed over Metropolis has such a fantasy captured the imagination of so many. In spite of our fascination with the concept, making a vehicle that can be certified by the FAA as airworthy, and can be legally driven on highways, is a complicated task. So complicated in fact, that as much as the idea of a flying car has been around for over half a century, no one has yet to crack through the many blocks in the way of it's advancement. Of course this does not stop many engineers and companies from trying. There are some dedicated and highly resourceful people beginning and in some cases nearing completion on the first consumer available flying car.
How can they possibly work?
A number of companies are developing flying cars, or roadable aircraft, as aficionados call it, that have integrated pieces carried in the vehicle, or modular pieces left at the airport when the car is being driven. Others are looking at Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL).
One very controversial aspect is how the take off and landing will be accomplished. If you don't want to drive to your local airport, you'll need to utilize VTOL, a flight technique used in military aircraft like the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey and the British Hawker Harrier Jump Jet. Moller International has a 4-seater SkyCar in the development process, with a FFA airworthy certified model planned in four plus years. Before you'll see one in your driveway, there are still questions to be answered about noise levels, special surface materials for takeoff and landing, and a spate of regulatory issues. These issues are possibly preventing Moller's Sky Car from becoming reality, yet there is mild sense that the world so hung up on cost effective and green transportation just doesn't have the energy or desire to become taken by the vision of the flying car. Perhaps one of the biggest draw backs is the price tag. Moller's precursor to the Sky Car named the Volantor will be close to 100,000 dollars.
Using more traditional flight techniques, some developers are working on folded or retractable wing technology, like Milner Motors and Terrafugia, Ltd., and several manufacturers are looking at producing kit planes as well. Although this does not have the appeal of a Moeller Sky car, it might be a good transitional phase in order to begin to lay the ground work both governmentally and in the wider consumer market for the possibility and reality of flying cars. Despite all the advancement in flying car technology there remains many issues preventing the flying car from "taking off."
Infrastructure.
In addition to crowded airports and vehicle storage issues, there are also legitimate questions like whether a pilot's license is required, difficulties with shared air space, traffic control, and costs. Most important of all, a focus on innovation rather than green technology may not be acceptable to today's eco-friendly conscious consumer.
About the Author
Andrew Beckers writes about topics that are important to humanity, Learn more about Flying Cars.
How can they possibly work?
A number of companies are developing flying cars, or roadable aircraft, as aficionados call it, that have integrated pieces carried in the vehicle, or modular pieces left at the airport when the car is being driven. Others are looking at Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL).
One very controversial aspect is how the take off and landing will be accomplished. If you don't want to drive to your local airport, you'll need to utilize VTOL, a flight technique used in military aircraft like the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey and the British Hawker Harrier Jump Jet. Moller International has a 4-seater SkyCar in the development process, with a FFA airworthy certified model planned in four plus years. Before you'll see one in your driveway, there are still questions to be answered about noise levels, special surface materials for takeoff and landing, and a spate of regulatory issues. These issues are possibly preventing Moller's Sky Car from becoming reality, yet there is mild sense that the world so hung up on cost effective and green transportation just doesn't have the energy or desire to become taken by the vision of the flying car. Perhaps one of the biggest draw backs is the price tag. Moller's precursor to the Sky Car named the Volantor will be close to 100,000 dollars.
Using more traditional flight techniques, some developers are working on folded or retractable wing technology, like Milner Motors and Terrafugia, Ltd., and several manufacturers are looking at producing kit planes as well. Although this does not have the appeal of a Moeller Sky car, it might be a good transitional phase in order to begin to lay the ground work both governmentally and in the wider consumer market for the possibility and reality of flying cars. Despite all the advancement in flying car technology there remains many issues preventing the flying car from "taking off."
Infrastructure.
In addition to crowded airports and vehicle storage issues, there are also legitimate questions like whether a pilot's license is required, difficulties with shared air space, traffic control, and costs. Most important of all, a focus on innovation rather than green technology may not be acceptable to today's eco-friendly conscious consumer.
About the Author
Andrew Beckers writes about topics that are important to humanity, Learn more about Flying Cars.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Green Concept Cars You Might Be Driving in the Next Five Years
With the price of gas steadily climbing around the country, more and more drivers are looking forward to the next wave of cars that will look great, serve their needs, and save them money at the pump (or take them away from the pump). At auto shows around the country this past year, more and more auto makers were showing concept cars that were green, ones that used little to no gas. Here are a few of those cars that you may be driving in the next five years.
Mazda Nagare
Offering a sleek style and futuristic look, the Mazda Nagare features gull-wing doors that open up to reveal space inside for four passengers, with the driver sitting front and center, and three passengers sitting in the rear lounge style seat. While Mazda hasn't confirmed exactly what type of drive-train will be used on the Nagare, they have said that it could use a hydrogen-powered rotary engine. No time table or production numbers have yet been given for the Nagare, as Mazda is currently using it mostly as a design experiment.
Daihatsu UFE-III
A third generation concept from the Tokyo auto show, the UFE-III features three seats (a 1 + 2 configuration), and an aerodynamic body that is part of the root of its fuel economy. Powered by a diminutive 660cc Atkinson 3 cylinder engine and two electric motors, the UFE-III has a fuel economy of 203 miles per gallon. It's unclear if this car will ever be seen in the United States, but the design and fuel economy are exactly that US drivers are currently looking for.
GM Saab Aero X
Taking a cue from their aviation roots, Saab has created a concept car without traditional doors, instead opting for a canopy opening similar to what one would find on a fighter jet. This two seater is made from lighter materials to help with fuel economy, and uses ethanol instead of standard gasoline to fuel its 400-hp twin turbo V6 engine. No word on when or if this car will ever see production, but more than one car enthusiast is already drooling over the possibility.
Volvo 3CC
Featuring an electric powertrain that can quietly propel the car to a top speed of 85mph, the Volvo 3CC is what many drivers are starting to look forward to - a car that doesn't rely on gasoline. Initially designed with 3 seats (2 in the front, one in the back), the current design is offering a more traditional four seat layout, while maintaining the futuristic look of many concept cars, including upswing doors for easy entrance. Included in this concept car, are added safety features such as steering wheel, instrument panel, and foot pedals that all shift forward during a collision to reduce impact.
Ford Airstream
Taking a page from the classic airstream trailers, the Ford Airstream pays homage with its classic colors and body design, all the while offering a family car for the next century. Powered by an electric fuel cell that gets the equivalent of 41 miles per gallon, the Ford Airstream can travel 25 miles before the fuel cells kick in to recharge the lithium ion batteries that give power to operate the car. With a screen for entertaining and setting the mood inside the car, this is a family vehicle that looks great and is great for the environment. Ford hasn't said whether you'll be able to find this at your local dealership yet (be that a Kansas Ford dealership or someplace in California), but with the demand for family vehicles that are environmentally friendly, be on the lookout for it in the near future.
Toyota FT-HS
A sports car for the next century, the Toyota FT-HS features seating for between two and four passengers (depending on whether or not the roof is retracted), and 400-hp or engine output from its Hybrid Synergy Drive. With a dedicated drivers cockpit that has all of the instruments and readings necessary centered on the driver, this sports car features sleek lines to help reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency. Toyota hasn't said when or if the FT-HS will see production, but do keep an eye out for some of its features to start appearing in Scions.
Honda FCX
One of the closer vehicles to seeing production, the Honda FCX features a fuel cell system, but that's only the start of what makes this concept so impressive. Speed sensitive adjusting instrument panels move according to speed to be more effective, biometric systems adjust the mirrors, wheel, and pedals to your settings as you approach the vehicle, and line of sight operated switches allow you to control things like audio and air conditioning without removing your hands from the wheel. All of this, coupled with a spacious interior made from new-age light-weight materials and you have a vehicle that provides 21st century technology and green efficiency into a vehicle that suits the needs of most drivers.
Chevrolet Volt
Looking to see production in 2010, the Chevy Volt drew rave reviews at the most recent car shows due to its design and E-Flex propulsion system that utilizes a combination of plug-in electricity and gasoline to provide a car that can attain an estimated 640 miles on a single tank of gas. All of this on a car that is rumored to range in price from $20,000 to $35,000.
With most people commuting less than 40 miles, Chevy designed the Volt to travel up to 40 miles without using a single drop of gas, and then using gas only to recharge the batteries that actually move the wheels. With space for five and a futuristic design that is both appealing and aerodynamic, the Volt is well on its way to being the first of many vehicles that are environmentally friendly and stylish at the same time.
More to Come
Every year more and more manufacturers are offering concept cars that are stylish, spacious, and fuel efficient to a more and more demanding public. While this is certainly not a comprehensive list of green concept cars, there will certainly be more shown in the years to come.
About the Author
Scott Conklin is the owner of Conklin Cars, a leading provider of Kansas Ford vehicles and Missouri Used Cars with locations Newton, Kansas and Kansas City, MO. They can be found online at: http://www.conklincars.com/ .
related post: FutureCars
Mazda Nagare
Offering a sleek style and futuristic look, the Mazda Nagare features gull-wing doors that open up to reveal space inside for four passengers, with the driver sitting front and center, and three passengers sitting in the rear lounge style seat. While Mazda hasn't confirmed exactly what type of drive-train will be used on the Nagare, they have said that it could use a hydrogen-powered rotary engine. No time table or production numbers have yet been given for the Nagare, as Mazda is currently using it mostly as a design experiment.
Daihatsu UFE-III
A third generation concept from the Tokyo auto show, the UFE-III features three seats (a 1 + 2 configuration), and an aerodynamic body that is part of the root of its fuel economy. Powered by a diminutive 660cc Atkinson 3 cylinder engine and two electric motors, the UFE-III has a fuel economy of 203 miles per gallon. It's unclear if this car will ever be seen in the United States, but the design and fuel economy are exactly that US drivers are currently looking for.
GM Saab Aero X
Taking a cue from their aviation roots, Saab has created a concept car without traditional doors, instead opting for a canopy opening similar to what one would find on a fighter jet. This two seater is made from lighter materials to help with fuel economy, and uses ethanol instead of standard gasoline to fuel its 400-hp twin turbo V6 engine. No word on when or if this car will ever see production, but more than one car enthusiast is already drooling over the possibility.
Volvo 3CC
Featuring an electric powertrain that can quietly propel the car to a top speed of 85mph, the Volvo 3CC is what many drivers are starting to look forward to - a car that doesn't rely on gasoline. Initially designed with 3 seats (2 in the front, one in the back), the current design is offering a more traditional four seat layout, while maintaining the futuristic look of many concept cars, including upswing doors for easy entrance. Included in this concept car, are added safety features such as steering wheel, instrument panel, and foot pedals that all shift forward during a collision to reduce impact.
Ford Airstream
Taking a page from the classic airstream trailers, the Ford Airstream pays homage with its classic colors and body design, all the while offering a family car for the next century. Powered by an electric fuel cell that gets the equivalent of 41 miles per gallon, the Ford Airstream can travel 25 miles before the fuel cells kick in to recharge the lithium ion batteries that give power to operate the car. With a screen for entertaining and setting the mood inside the car, this is a family vehicle that looks great and is great for the environment. Ford hasn't said whether you'll be able to find this at your local dealership yet (be that a Kansas Ford dealership or someplace in California), but with the demand for family vehicles that are environmentally friendly, be on the lookout for it in the near future.
Toyota FT-HS
A sports car for the next century, the Toyota FT-HS features seating for between two and four passengers (depending on whether or not the roof is retracted), and 400-hp or engine output from its Hybrid Synergy Drive. With a dedicated drivers cockpit that has all of the instruments and readings necessary centered on the driver, this sports car features sleek lines to help reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency. Toyota hasn't said when or if the FT-HS will see production, but do keep an eye out for some of its features to start appearing in Scions.
Honda FCX
One of the closer vehicles to seeing production, the Honda FCX features a fuel cell system, but that's only the start of what makes this concept so impressive. Speed sensitive adjusting instrument panels move according to speed to be more effective, biometric systems adjust the mirrors, wheel, and pedals to your settings as you approach the vehicle, and line of sight operated switches allow you to control things like audio and air conditioning without removing your hands from the wheel. All of this, coupled with a spacious interior made from new-age light-weight materials and you have a vehicle that provides 21st century technology and green efficiency into a vehicle that suits the needs of most drivers.
Chevrolet Volt
Looking to see production in 2010, the Chevy Volt drew rave reviews at the most recent car shows due to its design and E-Flex propulsion system that utilizes a combination of plug-in electricity and gasoline to provide a car that can attain an estimated 640 miles on a single tank of gas. All of this on a car that is rumored to range in price from $20,000 to $35,000.
With most people commuting less than 40 miles, Chevy designed the Volt to travel up to 40 miles without using a single drop of gas, and then using gas only to recharge the batteries that actually move the wheels. With space for five and a futuristic design that is both appealing and aerodynamic, the Volt is well on its way to being the first of many vehicles that are environmentally friendly and stylish at the same time.
More to Come
Every year more and more manufacturers are offering concept cars that are stylish, spacious, and fuel efficient to a more and more demanding public. While this is certainly not a comprehensive list of green concept cars, there will certainly be more shown in the years to come.
About the Author
Scott Conklin is the owner of Conklin Cars, a leading provider of Kansas Ford vehicles and Missouri Used Cars with locations Newton, Kansas and Kansas City, MO. They can be found online at: http://www.conklincars.com/ .
related post: FutureCars
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
5 Cool Cars Around The World
Car design is always different, in different parts of the globe. Some embrace the classics and build upon that, while some just totally move on to a different, futuristic direction.
Now I'll have to stress this -- most of these cars are concept cars -- meaning, I've probably come across them at different car shows that I'm lucky enough to attend, yet I always wonder how I can take one home with me. Also, I don't know enough about cars to talk about 'em -- I'm talking design here, and a man knows what he likes.
Italy: Pagani Zonda Cinque - Pagani Zonda, a mid-engine sports car built by Pagani has come out with the designs for the 2008-2009 manufacturing dates -- the Cinque. (pronounced cheen-kway) Being built upon the special request of a Hong Kong-based Pagani dealer, only 5 (five) of these beauties will be made at the cost of £1million each, with the delivery date of June 2009.
Japan: Lexus LF-A - Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of Toyota (as any car-enthusiast will know) was first introduced in the United States. (which I just recently found out) They've come up with a line of concept cars, named the LF series, whose earlier models have never seen the light of day. Though recently, by bits and pieces, ideas found in the concept cars have made their way to reality, and hopefully, the LF-A reaches that. Bordering on the exotic, it features the new Lexus design combined with a racing-feel, this word for this car is "dynamic." Add a couple of fins and paint it in black and you've got a Batmobile!
France: Peugeot e-motion - Being the second-biggest carmaker in France, Peugeot showcased its brand of an electric-powered sports car in the form of the e-motion. The combination of concave and convex surfaces really highlight the cars ... futurism. This is enhanced by a subtle line that follows the headlights, into the doors, leading up to the rear lights.
Hungary: Audi TTRS - This is more of a collab than anything. Designed in the states and produced in Hungary, the TT is Audi's two-seat roadster line. This new concept design features a fully-cowled body, unlike any that has come before it. Unfortunately, I might add, I wonder how this will fare in roads that feature humps? Do they not have humps where they're made?
USA: Custom Cadillacs - In the US, generations have grown to know that the Cadillac is synonymous with "high quality." Originally the luxury-car division of General Motors, Cadillacs are a statement that says, "things just get better with age." With thousands of Americans still enamoured with the classical style and shape; forget sleekness: we own the best monster cars ever. In California, car customization is a big business, with new life being brought upon the oldest of vehicles. Customized Cadillacs are a staple for this, and the generations that have gone before. With kids proudly driving around in them, lowered suspension, hydraulics and all.
About the Author
Neil Simon enjoys traveling a lot either all by himself or with his wife and his (now) grown-up kids. You can read more of Neil Simon's travel tips at Travel Nooks.
Now I'll have to stress this -- most of these cars are concept cars -- meaning, I've probably come across them at different car shows that I'm lucky enough to attend, yet I always wonder how I can take one home with me. Also, I don't know enough about cars to talk about 'em -- I'm talking design here, and a man knows what he likes.
Italy: Pagani Zonda Cinque - Pagani Zonda, a mid-engine sports car built by Pagani has come out with the designs for the 2008-2009 manufacturing dates -- the Cinque. (pronounced cheen-kway) Being built upon the special request of a Hong Kong-based Pagani dealer, only 5 (five) of these beauties will be made at the cost of £1million each, with the delivery date of June 2009.
Japan: Lexus LF-A - Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of Toyota (as any car-enthusiast will know) was first introduced in the United States. (which I just recently found out) They've come up with a line of concept cars, named the LF series, whose earlier models have never seen the light of day. Though recently, by bits and pieces, ideas found in the concept cars have made their way to reality, and hopefully, the LF-A reaches that. Bordering on the exotic, it features the new Lexus design combined with a racing-feel, this word for this car is "dynamic." Add a couple of fins and paint it in black and you've got a Batmobile!
France: Peugeot e-motion - Being the second-biggest carmaker in France, Peugeot showcased its brand of an electric-powered sports car in the form of the e-motion. The combination of concave and convex surfaces really highlight the cars ... futurism. This is enhanced by a subtle line that follows the headlights, into the doors, leading up to the rear lights.
Hungary: Audi TTRS - This is more of a collab than anything. Designed in the states and produced in Hungary, the TT is Audi's two-seat roadster line. This new concept design features a fully-cowled body, unlike any that has come before it. Unfortunately, I might add, I wonder how this will fare in roads that feature humps? Do they not have humps where they're made?
USA: Custom Cadillacs - In the US, generations have grown to know that the Cadillac is synonymous with "high quality." Originally the luxury-car division of General Motors, Cadillacs are a statement that says, "things just get better with age." With thousands of Americans still enamoured with the classical style and shape; forget sleekness: we own the best monster cars ever. In California, car customization is a big business, with new life being brought upon the oldest of vehicles. Customized Cadillacs are a staple for this, and the generations that have gone before. With kids proudly driving around in them, lowered suspension, hydraulics and all.
About the Author
Neil Simon enjoys traveling a lot either all by himself or with his wife and his (now) grown-up kids. You can read more of Neil Simon's travel tips at Travel Nooks.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
2009 Camaro - A Ghost - Or a Real Contender
There are a number of things that I like about the 2009 camaro, But will it pick up where the first generation camaro left off, or will it build a legacy all it's own, I think it's going to be somewhere in between, I don't see it raising eyebrows like the first generation camaro did.
It has it's good points, and it's bad points, I'm going to start with the good points about it, first of all Chevrolet has done a great job in the engine area of the car, using the best of new technology to build horsepower, and keeping it low in the emissions area, the 2009 camaro is a contender in this area.
The LS6 engine putting out a respectable 400 HP is a good place to start with the camaro, and the idea of optioning a six speed standard transmission doesn't hurt either, for a real muscle car freak like me a standard transmission is a must, if for nothing else, the added fun factor of driving the car.
The rear end of the car is reminiscent of the 1969 camaro, a good place to get ideas for the new camaro, but they could have used a few more ideas for the 1969 model, the 2009 camaro has a true muscle car look, with it's low slung stance, and body lines that seem to make the car look wider then it is.
The front end of the 2009 camaro could use a bit of work, it look to much like a foreign car, and not enough like an American muscle car, all you need to do is look at the new Dodge challenger to see what a true melting of modern, and classic should be, they have done it better then anybody.
The front of the camaro needs to be taller in the grille area of the car, and it should look more muscular, and less sports car in the front, it should retain the idea of a 1969 camaro in the front also, and it can be done, just think a little more like a camaro person, and less like a modern art person.
The interior of the 2009 camaro could not be more perfect, they have combined just enough of the modern, with just the right amount of the first generation camaro look, the center console and dash gauges of the car are nothing short of awesome, the work on the interior is beautiful as it can be.
The interior is very sexy, a long with being totally functional, it has the feel of an air craft cockpit a long look and idea of a muscle car of the 1960's, as I have said above, it could not be more perfect of a design then it is.
It could go either way, we'll see what the progression of the camaro brings over the years, with just a few small changes it could be a top contender for one of the best new muscle cars on the market, all Chevrolet need to do is pay a bit more attention to the people buying the car, and they will have the full idea.
It has just enough of the old to get my vote to be a real contender for the gold, it could use a few more engine options, the rear quarter panels are perfect also, but a little work on the tail lights wouldn't hurt the 2009 camaro, make them a little less import looking, and a little more muscle car.
Muscle Car RestorationMuscle Cars For Sale
I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Atkin
It has it's good points, and it's bad points, I'm going to start with the good points about it, first of all Chevrolet has done a great job in the engine area of the car, using the best of new technology to build horsepower, and keeping it low in the emissions area, the 2009 camaro is a contender in this area.
The LS6 engine putting out a respectable 400 HP is a good place to start with the camaro, and the idea of optioning a six speed standard transmission doesn't hurt either, for a real muscle car freak like me a standard transmission is a must, if for nothing else, the added fun factor of driving the car.
The rear end of the car is reminiscent of the 1969 camaro, a good place to get ideas for the new camaro, but they could have used a few more ideas for the 1969 model, the 2009 camaro has a true muscle car look, with it's low slung stance, and body lines that seem to make the car look wider then it is.
The front end of the 2009 camaro could use a bit of work, it look to much like a foreign car, and not enough like an American muscle car, all you need to do is look at the new Dodge challenger to see what a true melting of modern, and classic should be, they have done it better then anybody.
The front of the camaro needs to be taller in the grille area of the car, and it should look more muscular, and less sports car in the front, it should retain the idea of a 1969 camaro in the front also, and it can be done, just think a little more like a camaro person, and less like a modern art person.
The interior of the 2009 camaro could not be more perfect, they have combined just enough of the modern, with just the right amount of the first generation camaro look, the center console and dash gauges of the car are nothing short of awesome, the work on the interior is beautiful as it can be.
The interior is very sexy, a long with being totally functional, it has the feel of an air craft cockpit a long look and idea of a muscle car of the 1960's, as I have said above, it could not be more perfect of a design then it is.
It could go either way, we'll see what the progression of the camaro brings over the years, with just a few small changes it could be a top contender for one of the best new muscle cars on the market, all Chevrolet need to do is pay a bit more attention to the people buying the car, and they will have the full idea.
It has just enough of the old to get my vote to be a real contender for the gold, it could use a few more engine options, the rear quarter panels are perfect also, but a little work on the tail lights wouldn't hurt the 2009 camaro, make them a little less import looking, and a little more muscle car.
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I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Atkin
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
2009 Camaro - An Automotive Revolution
As far as I can see the new 2009 Camaro concept car is being very well received in the automotive community, at the first a lot of people hemmed and hawed about one thing or another, just the same as I did, But after spending some time doing a little research on it, I discovered that the 2009 Camaro is a very well put together car for a concept car.
A the first I thought that it could use a few upgrades, but after thinking about it, there were a lot of Camaro fans putting in their two cents when Chevrolet took the Camaro out of production, in 2002, and I thought that Chevrolet had made a horrible mistake at the time.
The result of a lot of people telling Chevrolet what they thought the new Camaro should be, has made it a real work of art, and I for one will give Chevrolet their kudos, they have put a lot of effort in to making the Camaro a car that most people could like, and if they didn't at the first, then they'd get used to it.
At SEMA the CEO of Chevrolet drove out in the new Camaro concept car, and their wasn't a dry eye in the house, but the return of an icon will bring out the joy and happiness to a lot of people, when the big man spoke about the car he said: a few things would be changed at the time of release, but nothing major, he'd mentioned that, right now it has 22" wheels on the rear end, and that will be changed to 20" when the car is released.
The front wheels are destined for a change also, for from 21" to 20", nothing that will be to noticeable, but it will help them save some money on the production of the car, he also said that there were going to be some changes in the interior also, they would change the center console from stainless steel to plastic, in an effort to save money on the production.
All this is supposed to keep the base price on the car down to the $20,000 range, and that says a lot for their efforts to sell their new cars, in this range almost anybody can afford to own one of them.
The Camaro concept with it's low slung stance, it has the look of a sports car, while still retaining it's identity as a muscle car, Chevrolet has done brilliant work on this car, and will get one big "YAY" form this muscle car maniac.
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About the Author
I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is.
Classic Car Restoration - How To Community
A the first I thought that it could use a few upgrades, but after thinking about it, there were a lot of Camaro fans putting in their two cents when Chevrolet took the Camaro out of production, in 2002, and I thought that Chevrolet had made a horrible mistake at the time.
The result of a lot of people telling Chevrolet what they thought the new Camaro should be, has made it a real work of art, and I for one will give Chevrolet their kudos, they have put a lot of effort in to making the Camaro a car that most people could like, and if they didn't at the first, then they'd get used to it.
At SEMA the CEO of Chevrolet drove out in the new Camaro concept car, and their wasn't a dry eye in the house, but the return of an icon will bring out the joy and happiness to a lot of people, when the big man spoke about the car he said: a few things would be changed at the time of release, but nothing major, he'd mentioned that, right now it has 22" wheels on the rear end, and that will be changed to 20" when the car is released.
The front wheels are destined for a change also, for from 21" to 20", nothing that will be to noticeable, but it will help them save some money on the production of the car, he also said that there were going to be some changes in the interior also, they would change the center console from stainless steel to plastic, in an effort to save money on the production.
All this is supposed to keep the base price on the car down to the $20,000 range, and that says a lot for their efforts to sell their new cars, in this range almost anybody can afford to own one of them.
The Camaro concept with it's low slung stance, it has the look of a sports car, while still retaining it's identity as a muscle car, Chevrolet has done brilliant work on this car, and will get one big "YAY" form this muscle car maniac.
Cheap Automotive Advertising
High Performance Cars
About the Author
I've been in the automotive business for about 20 or 25 years, I have worked in all facets of the industry, from parts to restoration, all different makes and models, I just want to keep people interested in the old cars because it's where my heart is.
Classic Car Restoration - How To Community
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