March 30, 2010 by jameslucas.

By Anna Barrington

There’s a famous name in motoring that’s associated not only with style and reliability, but also with high octane performance models, all from within its own diverse range of cars. That name is Mercedes Benz.

Since their conception in 1881, the German manufacturer has built a reputation on producing some of the most technologically advanced and reliable cars on the market. Their newest group of high performance cars take their lead form Formula 1 and their developments with McLaren and AMG (the division of Mercedes most associated with their high performance cars).

Mercedes’ most recent rendezvous with consumer sports cars has led to the creation of the SLS AMG, which has just become available for pre-order in Germany. Costing €177,310 ($237,000), the car features a M159 V8 Engine, 571bhp and a 0-60mph time of just 3.8 seconds - resulting in a top speed of over 200 mph. Designed solely in-house by AMG ([and] being the first car to do so), has resulted in a convergence of technologies from their F1 cars; in fact, announced at this year’s Geneva Motor show is the news that the SLS AMG will be used as F1’s safety car on the track for the 2010 season (replacing the SL63 SMG), due to its impeccable speed and power.

Continuing their long standing tradition of motoring innovation, Mercedes is now experimenting with hybrid/fuel cell cars - such as their F800 research vehicle, which was also announced and displayed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show; featuring a 204bhp four-cylinder diesel engine which is combined with a 15kW electric motor and seven speed automatic transmission. Anticipated for launch at the end of 2011, it will be Europe’s first ever diesel hybrid, and seemingly an effective effort at combining the benefits of a environmentally friendly car, with the style and qualities that the market has come to expect from Mercedes.

Amidst Mercedes’ tradition of luxury super cars, they also have a large range of mass market cars - including their A-Class, B-Class and sedan models - which are more appropriate for everyday use. They have recently announced the launch of their latest “sport utility cruiser” B-Class sedan: [the] BLK. Attempting to be a portmanteau of the A-Class and B-Class ranges, this features much of the same features of Mercedes’ previous sedans, albeit in an updated package, specifically targeting BMW’s and Audi’s audience for the X1 and X3 respectively. The car is rumoured for release at the start of 2011.

It is interesting however that despite the range and performance of models available from a brand like Mercedes, the owners still create demand for a healthy market in add-on Mercedes diesel tuning parts. The range of engine re-chips and “piggy-back” tuning systems for diesel models is a case in point, as customers continue to seek out ways of extracting ever increasing levels of performance from what are in many cases already highly optimised engines.

Information and rumours surrounding potential new Mercedes cars often bring excitement and anarchy, but it also arises a question: how much difference can we see from new models compared to our current cars? Whilst the aesthetics of cars often change drastically (utilising materials such as aluminium and carbon fibre that would’ve been impossible years before), the need for ever increasing levels of performance is something that remains open to question.

• Do we really need consumer available cars that are able to reach speeds of over 200mph?
• Should we be pushing 0-60mph times to engine’s limits, to be even faster?
• Can the simple use of a third party engine tuning equipment allow our current cars to replicate the performance of super cars?

This question divides into two categories of a car’s use: recreational or practical. Mercedes’ new super cars fall squarely into the former category, while the mass market range seem to blur the lines between the two.

Whether the industry should be focusing on practical and environmental, or mainly recreational uses for the automobile is something that will probably always stimulate impassioned debate. However it remains exciting to see these steps forward in innovation and development from a company as long-standing as Mercedes.

Anna Barrington writes for Diesel Tuning UK, whom are specialists in diesel tuning and performance. They offer diesel tuning chips for a range of manufactures, including Mercedes Diesel Tuning.

Article Source: Anna Barrington
Mercedes Benz: Continuing Developments in Speed and Performance

Posted in Mercedes | Print | No Comments »

March 29, 2010 by jameslucas.

By Michael Enfield

The most commonly talked about driving hazard is drinking. Drunk driving billboards and police threats are staples alongside every highway in America. Recently, hazards associated with texting and driving have also gained in popularity, largely because of legislative debate regarding its legality. Not many people speak about the risks associated with fatigued driving; however, sleepy drivers are a serious threat, not only to their own safety, but also to anyone unfortunate enough to be in their proximity.

Symptoms of Fatigue

Drivers are most susceptible to fatigue when driving long distances at night. Driving along interstates that are quiet can lull drivers into an overly-relaxed state. Additionally, eye strain may make focusing or keeping eyes open difficult. Indications that a driver may be suffering from fatigue include:

• Difficulty focusing
• Slow blinks, or blinking excessively
• Unintended lane drifting
• Failure to abide by traffic laws, such as red lights or warning signs
• Memory failure
• Yawning
• Deceleration

If you are suffering from driving fatigue, do not continue driving, as it may lead to a serious or fatal accident.

Statistics

According to reports gathered from across America, driver fatigue is responsible for approximately 100,000 police-reported crashes, 71,000 injuries, and 1,500 deaths are annually. Additionally, these accidents cause an estimated $12.5 million in property damage and other financial losses.

Generally, these accidents occur whenever a sleepy driver careens off of the road into a ditch or oncoming traffic. Accidents which occur because of fatigue are generally quite serious, as the vehicle may be out of the driver’s control for a substantial amount of time.

Safe Alternatives

There are a number of safe alternatives to driving fatigued. If you are driving alone, exit the highway and get out of your car. Stretch and move around. Frequently, this will help you re-energize. If this does not help, and you are still suffering from fatigue, you may want to consider a caffeinated beverage or energetic music. If you need to sleep, rent a cheap room overnight. If you are driving with another passenger, take turns driving. When one person is driving, the other can sleep.

Liability

If you have been involved in an automobile accident and you suspect that it was caused by a fatigued driver, they may be liable for any damages you sustained, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and property damage.

For more information about how to pursue legal action, consult the Rhinelander auto accident attorneys at Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C.

Michael Enfield

Article Source: Michael Enfield
Driver Fatigue

Posted in Safety | Print | No Comments »

March 26, 2010 by jameslucas.

By Amit Kothial

With the beginning of every fiscal year the global automobile market witness the launch and introduction of different new cars. Especially in the month of April, as a new fiscal year begins, various car manufacturing companies go for up-gradations in their present existing car models and introduce all-new car models. In fact, redesigning and updating the present existing car models with greater frequency have been the major trend that the auto industry has been following for many years. This year too, the anticipations are very high among car lovers and the search for new cars is going to be once again very tricky with the introduction of new brand cars. Starting from utility vehicles to sports sedans, this year too car lovers can expect something more in order to suit their choice and price range. Therefore, in this new fiscal year if you are looking to purchase a new car then here are some of the best brand new car models that you must look for:

BMW X1- In the month of April, BMW is going to introduce a brand new car model X1 in the Australian auto market. Featuring fully variable Valvetronic management, variable double-Vanos camshaft adjustment and an adaptable intake system, this new X1 model can easily accelerate to 100km/h in 9.7 seconds. Talking in terms of its exterior look, at the front, the peculiarly shaped bonnet and the dynamic three-eye look of the headlights actually makes a striking impact, and the L-shaped taillights in combination with the horizontal flow of lines visually broaden the rear view. It features agile handling, spirited acceleration along with a decent ride and a well-finished interior which definitely makes it more impressive.

Volvo C30 - The much awaited and expected new car model from Volvo is also going to be introduced in the market in April, 2010. This new affordable Volvo C30 is going to be class on its own as it will represent safety, quality and eco-friendliness in its best form. The model is best in its range and guaranteed to offer the most composed handling, stylish looks and a classy, well-built interior.

Fiat 500- This year, all those who have always admired and loved driving Fiat car models are going to witness Fiat’s first Abarth model in Australia. Provided with unique features such as 17-inch wheels, bigger brakes, firmer suspension and an even wilder body kit will make it pleasure to drive. It is a perfect model of ardently designed car that contains everything starting from superior, technological, and refined accessories. The car is also going to be loaded with great features like electric drive door mirrors, airbags, anti-lock brakes, leather steering wheel and folding and adjustable rear seat. It can be considered as the vintage Fiat’s iconic car model that is going to give you a comfortable and joyful driving experience.

Nissan Altima- The Altima has always been one of top-rated family sedans for years, and this year too its refreshing model for 2010 is going to get much better. The new model will have an improved gas mileage and expected to feature standard ESC in all the trim lines. The all new Altima is also expected to offer an appealing balance of comfort and performance. The interior cabin is more spacious and well finished. With features like secure handling and spirited acceleration, this new Nissan Altima is going to make your driving more pleasurable.

Volkswagen Polo GTI- Car lovers in the month of April are going to witness the launch of the fifth-generation Polo as well. This brand new car model will be available in three-door and five-door hatch body styles. Adding to this, the model will also be available with three engines including a 77kw/175Nm 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine. Adding to this, the new model is also going to have a very sleek exterior featuring body coloured bumper and dashing front grille. Moreover, you may even get amazed after having a look at its interiors that includes some of the most prominent features such as dual tone dashboard, leather covered steering wheel & gear knob along with relaxed and sporty seats. Apart from all these, this new model is also going to score high on safety features as it includes ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution) along with Hill Hold Control that may further enhance the stability while driving.

These are some of the best car models that you can expect to witness in various showrooms and running on the road in the year 2010. So by now if you have decided to buy any of these models, the next best thing you must perform is a proper research regarding the authentic dealers as well. No doubt, owning a car does matter, but the importance of having a good car evaluation and selection process cannot be ignored. Buying a new car involves a good sum of money and it is always better to have a car that can give you true value for money.

Find huge collection of brand new cars for sale at Automarket.com.au. Auto Market is the largest platform to search for car brokers and car dealers in Australia. You can search car by make, models and price range. Choose the best car for you and buy your desired car at affordable prices.

Article Source: Amit Kothial

The New Upcoming Cars For April 2010

Posted in New Car | Print | No Comments »

March 25, 2010 by jameslucas.

By Ron Schepmann

With the talk about all electric cars and hybrid cars, have you been thinking about your own home built electric car?

I am sure that if you are like me you at least dreamed about such an animal sitting in your garage. It does however, seem like those “things”, electric powered vehicles, are about the ugliest, smallest, most inconvenient, looking car a guy or gal could be caught in. To say that, all electric cars, are in this category though, would also be an inaccurate statement. Certainly, electric car manufacturers, have a thought on this, and could change the looks of their electric powered vehicles to something that we could all be proud to own. I am sure they will in the next few years.

Then there is the price to consider on these new cars. For most of us, they are priced way out of our range. The $35,000 to $50,000 ones are just to much, especially in these times. There are a few coming down below that now, around $15,000.

If that price is still out of range for you and you still want to join the electric car club, you could consider your very own homemade electric car. You would need some time, you would need some knowledge or expertise, you would need some type of shop with basic tools, but most of all, as with anything worth getting, you would need some desire, and as always, you would need some of the green stuff (money) to go green, however much less than a new electric car. We call these the 5 “you would need some’s” to end up with your home built electric car.

Lets start with “you would need some” time. First you will need to decide which car or pickup you want to convert to electric. By the way, out here in Kansas we call a pickup, a pickup, not a pickup truck. A pickup by my definition is a small less than 1 ton rated vehicle for light hauling purposes. A truck is used for hauling heavy payloads that require more suspension and capacity. I hope that is not confusing for you. Anyway, all electric cars have a certain amount of weight to carry in the batteries and electric motor, and other components. The more batteries equals more distance between charges. That is why small pickups work the best for, electric conversions. If you shop around, you can find a small, used pickup with a “bad” engine and replace the engine with the electric motor. This will definitely save you lots of money.

Have you ever heard this before? “We can have that engine out in 1 hour”. I have heard it, but never said it. Because, it just never seems to work that way. 4 hours later the engine is hanging from the shop hoist dripping oil, antifreeze, and greasy dirt. Yep, it is out though.

Now, you have to find and mount an electric car motor to the drive train of the vehicle. Next, we have to come up with the electric parts, where to get them and how to install them correctly. Also, how to install and wire the batteries into the electric system so that they are working properly. Also, where to locate and buy batteries, new or used. How heavy the wire needs to be from battery to working component and many other parts that need hooked up and mounted in and on your homemade electric car.

For me to say this do it yourself project will take a certain amount of hours, would not be fair. I will say this though. With proper guidance and educating yourself, you and a friend with average mechanical skills working for 2 weekends and doing some phone calling and chasing electric car parts during the week, would most likely be driving up and down the neighborhood streets, in your very own home built electric car, in a couple of weeks.

I am writing about all of this so that you will know the truth, about our friend “how much time” involved to do electric conversions as best as I can tell you, from my own experiences of doing things myself. I want to encourage you to look at the possibility of you doing this for yourself and your family. In the future you may be one of these guys or gals joining the electric car club. Who knows this could even turn into your very own business, if you find that you enjoy doing this type of work. Doing a project, like a homemade electric car or pickup, could be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience for you.

Look for part 2 in this series of 5 articles, titled, you will need some, written to help you decide if building your own homemade electric car would be a benefit to you or your family.

The author of this article has a passion to help people become educated and aware of methods and products that have or do work to improve someones use of energy. Ron feels that alternative energy must be more seriously considered and applied to our everyday lifestyles and living. He feels that education and just to let people know, that there is another way to turn the wheels of society, and get things done.

http://www.allaboutalternatives.com

Article Source: Ron Schepmann

Your Homemade Electric Car

Posted in electric car | Print | No Comments »