Koenigsegg Agera Supercar

Koenigsegg unleashed their latest jewel – the Koenigsegg Agera. A new supercar aimed to take the Koenigsegg experience to the next level, both on the road and the track.
Inside the carbon fiber and aluminum honeycomb chassis lies the same 4.7-liter V8 as the CCX, but output has increased to 910 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque, allowing the 2,832-pound Agera to hit 62 mph in 3.1 seconds and top out at over 242 mph.
Koenigsegg only plans to produce 16-20 Ageras each year and orders will begin next week with deliveries starting later in 2010.

More Flicks After The Jump.

[Posted By Niall]

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[Via http://hypemuch.com]

Three-Wheel Electric Drive

Green Vehicles is attempting to corner the electric vehicle market. EV’s main objective is to be eco-friendly and affordable, but since the economy is in the tank, the price tag is out of reach for the majority of the public. The company’s answer to this problem is the TRIAC. Gracing a price-tag of $24, 99;, this tri-pod is somewhat affordable if you have the extra cash to spend on a car that requires a 16hr charge after a 100 mile ride. Hit the jump for another look at the TRIAC.

[Via http://evolveent.wordpress.com]

Jenis Jenis Knalpot Racing

Salah satu cara untuk mendongkrak tenaga motor adalah dengan mengganti knalpot ( exhaust ) dengan model racing. Diyakini, knalpot racing lebih ‘lancar’ dalam menyalurkan gas hasil pembakaran. Kebanyakan orang terlanjur menyebut sebuah knalpot yang bentuknya berbeda dengan knalpot standar sebagai knalpot racing. Knalpot racing asli, biasanya didapatkan lewat pesanan khusus.

Ada dua bentuk knalpot racing yang umumnya mudah dibedakan oleh pengendara. Bentuk panjang dan bentuk pendek. Bentuk panjang, jika knalpot tersebut memiliki silencer ( tabung peredam suara ) berada hampir di ujung buritan motor. Bentuk pendek, jika silencer knalpot tidak mencapai buritan ( setengah atau lebih sedikit dari panjang bodi motor keseluruhan ).

Bentuk panjang, efektif untuk mengail tenaga di putaran atas ( menggapai top speed ). Bentuk pendek sebaliknya, efektif untuk mengail tenaga di putaran pendek. Jika menggunakan knalpot dengan bentuk pendek, torsi mesin gampang dicapai pada tiap giginya.

Sedangkan jika menggunakan bentuk panjang, yang terasa adalah nafas mesin tiap gigi (terutama di gigi tinggi) terasa lebih panjang ketimbang saat menggunakan knalpot standar. Bentuk pendek, efektif untuk daerah perkotaan yang sering terjebak macet. Sedangkan bentuk panjang, lebih cocok dipakai untuk turing ataupun buat pul-kam alias mudik.

Dalam segi suara, bentuk panjang, biasanya memiliki suara yang lebih lembut dan cenderung ‘bulat’ atau sering disebut orang ‘nge-bass’. Dan bentuk pendek, memiliki suara yang lebih keras dan ‘pecah’ atau sering disebut orang ‘robek’ atau ‘mrepek’.

Pada knalpot racing bentuk panjang, aliran gas buang lama mencapai ujung knalpot sehingga tekanannya melemah ketika keluar. Sedangkan knalpot racing bentuk pendek, di mana tekanan gas buang masih cukup kuat, gas buang sudah mencapai ujung knalpot.

Hal yang Harus Dilakukan Setelah Mengganti Knalpot

Ada langkah-langkah tertentu yang harus dilakukan paska penggantian knalpot, antara lain:

1. Lakukan penyetelan setelan udara setelah penggantian knalpot.
2. Lakukan test ride beberapa km dengan kondisi riding seperti biasa ( layaknya membawa motor secara harian, tidak perlu terlalu kencang, tidak usah telalu pelan ).
3. Matikan mesin beberapa meter sebelum motor berhenti ( posisi gigi di-netralkan dulu ) untuk memperlihatkan kondisi mesin ( via busi ) sesungguhnya.
4. Buka busi. Awas, hati-hati. Membuka busi sesaat setelah mesin dijalankan beresiko membuat ulir drat tempat busi menjadi selek.
5. Perhatikan kondisi dan warna busi. Jika busi berwarna putih bersih, berarti setelan udara tidak mampu ‘menahan’ dahaga mesin akan bahan bakar. Harus ganti spuyer ! Jika busi berwarna putih kecoklatan / merah bata, berarti setelan sudah tepat. Jika busi berwarna hitam, atur ulang setelan udara.
6. Perawatan mesin paska penggantian knalpot yang utama adalah, membuat mesin tidak kehausan bahan baker. Mesin yang telalu ‘kering’ beresiko membuat mesin cepat jebol. Setelah setelan ideal didapatkan, perawatan yang lain berjalan seperti biasa.
7. Pergantian oli secara teratur, sangat dianjurkan. Jika perlu interval-nya dipercepat, misalkan biasanya ganti oli setiap 2000 km, boleh ganti setiap 1500 km. Untuk penggunaan merek oli sendiri, kebebasa para pengendara.
8. Setelah knalpot terpasang dan setelan didapatkan, bersihkan filter udara sekalian agar hasilnya lebih greng. Bensin tidak perlu diganti ke oktan yang lebih tinggi. Biasa minum premium, premium saja.

Semoga bermanfaat

[Via http://fourthfebruary.wordpress.com]

The Ideal Vehicle Speed for Best Fuel Economy

The precise number varies by car and environmental conditions, but the sweet spot is generally between 40-60 mph (65-95 km/h). Most small and medium size cars get the best mileage at about 50 mph (80 km/h).

A lot of factors affect the fuel economy of your car. Some of them don’t vary much with speed, such as the resistance of the engine pumps and accessories. Other factors, like the size of the frontal area and the drag coefficient create increasing resistance with speed.

The faster you drive, the more energy is needed to overcome the aerodynamic resistance of the car. Up to 40 mph, that isn’t really even a factor. So, if you’re driving a box then your best fuel economy is likely closer to 40 mph than 50. If you’re driving a teardrop shaped eco-car, then you’re likely closer to 60 mph. Of course, engine size and other factors are involved too.

If you’re in a hurry, then going faster than 60 mph (95 km/h), presents new problems. Getting above this speed, your transmission is starting to run out of gears, so the engine has to keep turning faster and faster without getting any mechanical advantage from the transmission — that burns a lot of extra fuel. This also hurts your ability to overcome the exponentially increasing resistance — your engine can only turn so fast. But, if you’re in a small car then your fuel economy at 70 mph is likely still better than a large SUV traveling 60 mph.

If your car has a fuel economy display, be sure to take notice at many different speeds to find the best speed for your car. If your car does not have a fuel economy display and you do a lot of driving then it might be worth getting a device that will read your vehicle data and calculate fuel economy accurately. Try: Car Chip Pro ($75-85) or ScanGuage II ($160).

Broken Secrets

Written By: Chad Upton

Become a fan on Facebook

Sources: ThinkQuest, How Stuff Works

[Via http://brokensecrets.com]

Porschestripes.com 2010 GT 3 RS stripe kit

This is Greg Collet’s 2007 GT3 with a non factory 2010 GT3 RS checker flag stripe kit from Porschestripes.com. This kit was only $225 and Greg said it was an easy install.

To see these and other selections visit: Porschestripes.com

[Via http://porschebahn.wordpress.com]

World Debut in Beijing: Panamera and Panamera 4

Efficient, Light and Fast with Six-Cylinder Power Units

Stuttgart. Following the successful start of the Panamera into the market, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is rapidly expanding the range of models available: Starting in May 2010, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4 will be at the dealership as the new entry-level versions leading into Porsche’s Gran Turismo model series.

Both models are powered by a brand-new 3.6-litre V6 featuring Direct Fuel Injection and developing maximum output of 300 bhp (220 kW) plus peak torque of 400 Nm/295 lb-ft. Following Porsche’s nomenclature, the Panamera transmits its power to the road via the rear wheels, while the Panamera 4 comes as standard with active all-wheel drive.

The two new versions of Porsche’s Gran Turismo are convincing examples of the Porsche Intelligent Performance consistent development strategy. Equipped with PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungs-getriebe (Porsche Double-Clutch Gearbox) and Auto Start Stop, both models consume far less than 10 litres of fuel on 100 kilometres in the New European Driving Cycle: The Panamera makes do with a mere 9.3 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 30.4 mpg imp), the Panamera 4 averages 9.6 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 29.4 mpg imp. Nineteen-inch all-year tyres with optimised roll resistance available as an option reduce these consumption figures by another 0.2 litres/100 kilometres, giving the Panamera a CO2 rating of just 213 g/km, the Panamera 4 an equally impressive 220 g/km. Both V6 versions of the Panamera fulfil the strict EU5 emission standard in Europe and the LEV standard in the United States.

Superior economy and performance typical of the brand do not rule out each other on these new V6 Gran Turismos. On the contrary – the ideal combination of these qualities is attributable to consistent lightweight construction as one particular highlight, with the axles, doors, engine compartment lid, wings and the rear lid all made either of aluminium or a combination of aluminium and magnesium. At the same time the brand-new V6 power unit built at Porsche’s engine plant in Zuffenhausen and boasting a 90o cylinder angle is approximately 30 kg or 66 lb lighter than the eight-cylinder featured in the Panamera S and 4S, thus contributing to the low overall weight of the Panamera of just 1,730 kg or 3,815 lb.

Like the proven V8 models, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4, as genuine Gran Turismos, combine sporting character with a high standard of comfort and everyday driving qualities. Apart from the regular steel suspension available as an option with variable dampers, adaptive air suspension with additional air volume is also available on request. This provides a very wide range of suspension qualities and features extending from an even higher level of motoring comfort at one end all the way to extremely sporting driving dynamics at the other.

The Panamera and Panamera 4 will be making their world debut at the Beijing Motor Show as of 23 April 2010. Both models will be entering the German market in May 2010 and are scheduled to enter the US market in June. The Panamera and Panamera 4 MSRPs are $74,400 and $78,900, respectively.

 

[Via http://porschebahn.wordpress.com]

Porsche Adds New Panamera Models to its Gran Turismo Lineup

Sporting a new 300-horsepower V6 engine, the Panamera and Panamera 4 deliver Porsche driving excitement, high comfort, and excellent fuel efficiency

ATLANTA – February 16, 2010 – Porsche Cars North America today announced the addition of two new Panamera models, just three months after successfully launching the first four-door Gran Turismo in three V8 flavors: the Panamera S, the Panamera 4S and the Panamera Turbo.

 The Panamera and Panamera 4, the model line’s new entry level versions, will be in Porsche dealerships in June 2010. Both feature a brand-new 3.6-liter V6 with Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) developing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Panamera transmits its power to the road via the rear wheels, while the Panamera 4 comes standard with active all-wheel drive. U.S. models will include Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), Porsche’s new and revolutionary seven-speed double-clutch gearbox, as standard equipment.

 The Panamera and Panamera 4 are examples of the Porsche Intelligent Performance development strategy. Equipped with the PDK gearbox and the Auto Start Stop function, Porsche expects these new models to be considerably more fuel efficient than their normally aspirated V8 siblings. Official U.S. EPA fuel economy figures will be announced closer to the new models’ on-sale date, and both meet the strict EU5 emission standard in Europe and the LEV standard in the United States. And like all Panamera models, they are not subject to a gas-guzzler tax.

 Porsche has always focused on superior efficiency and performance, and in the case of these new Panamera models these long-held tenets are not mutually exclusive. One example of this ideal combination of qualities is consistent lightweight construction with the axles, doors, hood, front fenders and tailgate all made of aluminum. Likewise, the brand new 90-degree angle V6 powerplant built at Porsche’s engine plant in Zuffenhausen is approximately 66 lbs. lighter than the Porsche V8 in the Panamera S and 4S. This contributes to the low overall curb weight, which in the case of the Panamera with the PDK transmission is just 3,880 lbs. (1,730 kg).

 Like the proven V8 models, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4, as genuine Gran Turismos, combine a sporting character with a high standard of comfort and everyday driving qualities. Steel suspension with variable dampers is standard, and adaptive air suspension with additional air volume on demand is available as an option. This provides a wide range of suspension qualities and features, with a high level of motoring comfort on the one hand and extremely sporting driving dynamics on the other.

 Both models will be making their world debut at the Beijing Motor Show on April 23, 2010. The Panamera and Panamera 4 MSRPs are $74,400 and $78,900, respectively.

 Since its U.S. introduction in October 2009, the Panamera has received numerous awards and recognition. The Panamera Turbo was named Playboy Magazine’s 2010 Car of the Year. Others include an Edmunds Inside Line Editors’ Most Wanted Award, inclusion in Edmunds.com’s Top Recommended Vehicles list, two Car and Driver Editors Choice Awards (Sports Sedans and Luxury Sedans), Bloomberg Car of the Year, About.com Cars Best New Cars of 2010, and NADAguides.com’s Car of the Month for January. 

[Via http://porschebahn.wordpress.com]

Leave Toyota alone!

Let  Toyoto recall their cars in peace!  In theory, it is really a small problem. Only 125 Prius owners reported a braking problem with their cars to the National Transportation Safety Board out of 239,000 Prius 2010 models sold in the world. The solution to the recall was  a simple reflash of one of the car’s computers. This problem affected only a small percentage of the overall cars sold. The media has played this up. What else would CNN have to talk about for 24 hours a day. Let Toyota do their job! It is one thing to report a problem and another to manufacture a problem.

[Via http://talkingcars.wordpress.com]

Low Interest Car Loan Rates And Low Rate Car Loans - Loans At Affordable Rates For All

Getting the lowest car loan can save you thousands of dollars in the long run, let alone the immediate savings you will experience.

Whether you have good credit or bad credit you can be approved for the lowest car loan as long as you take some simple steps. Everyday online thousands of loans are given that provide 100% financing to purchase a car truck or motorcycle. Anyone can take advantage of the high competition, but there are ways to lower your payments and get low interest rates.

Most of the time in order to get the lowest car loan rate certain requirements are needed to get it under 7%. For example it helps if you have a good job with enough monthly income to make the payments on your car. When you apply for one of the low rate car loans you will be asked what your income is.

3 Steps to Getting the Lowest Car Loan

1. Determine the Amount of Money You Need

If you know how much money you need or at least roughly what you want this will make it easy to apply. You will want to make sure you have enough to pay for the vehicle.
Keep in mind that there are ways to get the lowest car loan just by having a good knowledge of what you need for money, and whether you have any money to put against it. If you have collateral, or a co-signer, or a down payment you can significantly reduce your monthly payments and interest. If you know the amount you have for a down payment you can provide this during the application process and it will influence your interest rate.

2. Search Online For The Lowest Car Loan Rate

There are many sites that offer low rate car loans. By applying online you can instantly get approval and compare all the rates you are approved for. Once you think you found the lowest car loan then you can go to your dealer or bank and see if they can beat it. There is a place online that can find all the loans for you so you do not have to fill out several applications.

3. Fill out an online application at a place that compares several loans for you

The lowest car loan is often found by using free services online that will search for your best loan rate. These places can help find the loan for you and then you simply pick and choose what the best deal is. Once you provide a few details of yourself these services will do a search from many providers and give you the quote that is best for you. It is simple and fast, and usually you get approval instantly. Sometimes your approval for the lowest car loan can take up to 24 hours if you have very bad credit.

[Via http://usedautoloan123.wordpress.com]

Joe Montana Fusion Autograph Error

Press Pass announced today of a production error that has occurred with the Semester Signature Onyx autographed cards of Joe Montana that can be found in ‘09 Fusion.  It appears that four of the five cards are each numbered “2/5″.  Having that many cards each numbered the same would speculate that someone would be faking them if you saw the same card up for sale over and over again.  Press Pass has stated that they will provide each collector who has this card with a letter documenting that it is a true error made by the manufacturer just in case the owner decides to sell the card in the future.  There are only five copies of this card.  Lets hope that letter has some security on it, because anyone can print out a letter.

[Via http://sportscardinfo.wordpress.com]

Protectia anonimului

Acum patru ani am avut un accident de masina. M-a depasit unu (mi-a taiat calea de fapt) cind ma apropiam de ultima intersectie la iesirea din Ploiesti si a frinat brusc pentru ca s-a facut rosu la semaforul suspendat. Fix atunci, am ramas fara frine si m-am bulucit direct in el, cu toata viteza. El avind o masina de teren,  eu mi-am facut jumatate de masina acordeon si mi-am scos pe perioada limitata mina dreapta din circuit. Am luat doua puncte de penalizare! Atit, nu ca Gheorghe…Si am si condus cu atela de la Ploiesti la Buzau cind mi-am scos masina din service! Multumesc mie ca nu m-am facut persoana publica si pot sa misun si sa traiesc normal! Ce consum nervos trebuie sa aiba astia, dom`le…

[Via http://cuvintre.wordpress.com]

China maintains world lead in auto sales

China is currently the world’s biggest auto market. Sales exceeded 1.3 million in November.(Associated Press)

Chinese consumers bought 1.32 million cars in January, solidifying the country’s status as the world’s largest auto market.

Spurred by tax cuts and other government stimulus measures, the January figure was 18 per cent more than December’s 1.1 million vehicles sold. It was also up 116 per cent from the same month of 2009, when China first overtook the U.S. in vehicle sales.

Total vehicle sales, including larger vehicles, more than doubled from 735,000 last year to 1.66 million units, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers said.

U.S. auto sales rose a modest six per cent in January, but that was up from a 26-year low of 656,976 a year before.

For the year as a whole, total Chinese vehicle sales were up 45 per cent to an estimated 13.6 million in 2009, overtaking the American market as sales there languished. The auto group expects 15 million passenger vehicle sales this year.

Trade-ins encouraged

Beijing ignited sales last year with a series of policies aimed at encouraging car owners to trade in older vehicles, in many case three-wheel trucks, for more fuel-efficient small cars.

The huge year-on-year jump in January sales also reflected relatively weak sales and production a year earlier, when China’s economy had slowed because of the global financial crisis.

January sales may have been buoyed by a rush to buy cars ahead of the Feb. 14 Lunar New Year, the country’s biggest holiday, so analysts say sales could fall off now that the holiday is past.

“We need to keep an eye on the data for February and March,” said Wei Chenggang, an analyst at Shanghai Securities in Shanghai. “Given expectations that inflation may rise, people may spend less.”

“January does not tell us what the whole year will be like, since the broader economy faces various uncertainties,” the association said in a statement.

With files from The Associated Press

[Via http://businessnewss.wordpress.com]

Toyota Saga Continues

Is this a witch-hunt, a political squabble, or a media frenzy, to ruin Toyota image. Fist let us, not compromise safety for a few dollars or bragging right.

Issue #1 Toyota accelerator problem, #2 Brake failures #3 Steering concern, all are electronic control components. As technology grows every manufacturer is plying the same route but you never know which one will have their share of problems or when.

The fact is every manufacturer have their share of problems however, some are concealed. Perhaps you would like to see the real proof, ok just look at their TSB’s and you will scratch your head in disbelief and then understand that based on the number of complaint any of those can later become a recall.

To take it a step further, investigate all their data and recall records on safety and compare it with current issues in the auto industry and you will see that it is astounding.

Over the years I have worked with engineers fixing complex issues on vehicles both mechanical and electronic most are found and fix within a reasonable time, some take a while longer, but eventually get fixed. The hardest ones to fix are the intermittent problems, they sometimes takes a while to regenerate.

A flight data recorder is necessary to capture the event as it happens and then share this information with the public, this could be the only way for Toyota to stay righted or correct image control, otherwise tomorrow it could be number 4, 5, 6, 7 and more for Toyota as the hunt continues.

Just for thoughts, if you build a product and have less than 1% failure, do you stop making the product all together, or address quality control. However, the real question is, is the product any good.

[Via http://acs8.wordpress.com]

Day 10: FREE Maintenance that improves Fuel Efficiency!

In this still troubled economy, any tip that can save you money is good advice!

My tip for the day is:

Keep your tires properly inflated!

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How it will save you money:

Under inflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency by 15% and will increase wear of your tires. Keeping your tires properly inflated will ensure you save money on gas and reduce your tire purchases!

This is an easy tip to use, just follow the steps below:

1. Buy a pressure gauge. (Most of these only cost about $1 and look like a pen, and you can keep it in your car.)

2. Identify your recommended tire pressure.

(This will be written on the side of your tire, don’t be afraid to look and get your hands dirty, it will probably written with a PSI unit of measurement.)

3. Take off your tire valve cap.

(This should screw off with just your hand and don’t worry, no air will escape with your car sitting still.)

4. Check your tire pressure on each tire with a pressure gauge.

(place your pressure gauge on top of the valve and press down, it should make a little bit of hissing noise and the pin inside the pressure gauge will poke out allowing you to read your pressure.)

5. Fill tires with air if they are not at the recommended pressure level.

(Go to your local gas station for FREE air, just take the hose and press the end onto the tire valve where you checked the pressure, this will also make a hissing noise, just fill for a few seconds, then check your pressure again, repeat until your tire is inflated to the recommended pressure.)

6. Make sure you screw your tire valve caps back on!

7. Measure your tire pressure once a month.

(You can do this at your local gas station, at home, or anywhere you have a tire pressure gauge handy.)

Remember: Check your tires, save money and be greener!

[Via http://carcareforher.wordpress.com]

Driving Without Car Insurance

If you are tempted to drive in Omaha without car insurance, don’t! You could be opening yourself and your loved ones to severe liability for years to come, not including medical bills.

As the economy continues to struggle and people work to make ends meet, I am seeing some customers who decide to drive without insurance. Usually, this is unnecessary. I have helped hundreds of my Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas customers achieve savings by simple things like increased deductibles, low mileage premiums, multiple car discounts, etc.

There are other, more sensible ways to save on your auto insurance. Don’t drive without car insurance.

[Via http://omahainsuranceagency.wordpress.com]

YOU CAN BUILD YOUR OWN ELECTRIC CAR WITH TREXA

rexa has revealed details of a lithium-powered, all-wheel vehicle development platform that will enable engineers and developers to create custom “vehicle apps”, doing for builders of electric vehicles what the iPhone did for application developers. Modular and scalable, the standard Trexa platform will feature an aluminum, carbon steel tubing and thermoplastic shell containing open source and user programmable electronics and advanced battery technology. A few years ago, General Motors (GM) brought forth an idea where a variety of vehicle bodies could all be fitted to one standard fuel-cell-propelled chassis: the AUTOnomy concept. “If our vision of the future is correct, and we think it is, AUTOnomy could reinvent the automobile and our entire industry,” said Larry Burns, GM Vice President of Research and Development and Planning, at the time. GM based the design around a hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system and since AUTOnomy was first announced, has shown off some conceptual offerings in the Hy-wire and the Sequel but as yet, a commercially available vehicle hasn’t appeared. Meanwhile, a company called Trexa has introduced a similar looking project to AUTOnomy that uses fully recyclable lithium-ion battery technology instead of hydrogen fuel cells but keeps the same single adaptable platform approach. The battery technology for the platform was developed by the team behind the first lithium plug in hybrid system for the Toyota Prius in 2005. Trexa envision the vehicle development platform doing for car builders what the iPhone did for application developers. Customers will be provided with a Trexa vehicle development kit (VDK) which will contain CAD models for design and validation directly on the platform, human-machine interface components enabling programming and operation and hardware for permanently or interchangeably docking applications to the platform. There’s also ongoing development of modules for remote operation and other specialized applications. The standard platform is made from welded and bonded aluminum, carbon steel tubing and fiber-reinforced thermoplastics and will have an 80 inch wheelbase with a curb weight of 1,250 lb. The Trexa all-wheel drive platform should give 0-60mph in eight seconds, features programmable gearless 2-speed transmission that uses regenerative braking, has a top speed of 100mph and a range of 105 miles with 21kWh of lithium iron phosphate battery power installed. Recharge time is said to be four hours. Small task oriented vehicles, prototype mules for developers and a chassis for kit car builders or low-volume production models can be catered for thanks to the platform’s scalability features. Builders will benefit from a modular energy storage system that can provide vehicle ranges from 25 miles (7kWh battery configuration) right up to 125 miles (28kWh battery configuration) between charges together with fully adjustable suspension and optional short (64in) and long (96in) wheelbase versions. There’s also the option of a dual-motor drive system and variable torque between front and rear axles. While an overnight charger is a standard feature there is also the option of a 6kW onboard fast charger and builders will have access to the main power bus for adding range extenders, enabling off-board chargers, and providing portable power. Josh Davis, Director of Marketing for Trexa told: “Without an internal combustion engine and exhaust system, etc. all of the battery, driveline, and power electronics – everything that makes a vehicle go – can be contained in a low profile enclosed structure that lends itself to unlimited design possibilities.” Pricing details have yet to be announced but will obviously vary depending on selected features. First delivery is expected to take place in 2011. More information at: www.trexa.com

[Via http://5magazine.wordpress.com]

Mazda Celebrates the MX-5 Miata with Collector's Editions

The MX-5 Miata has a perfect blend of agility and affordability has earned it eleven 10 Best titles since its introduction to the U.S. in 1989. Last year, Mazda celebrated the Miata’s 20th birthday through a face lift and minor mechanical enhancement for the production car, while also showing the badass speedster-style Superlight concept.

This year at the Geneva auto show, Mazda will mark the Miata’s second 20th anniversary—it made its European debut in 1990—with a special edition model. Limited to just 2000 copies and based on the 1.8-liter softtop model, this Euro-only version will feature stainless-steel door sills with each car’s individual number, plus an exterior chrome package that includes a new grille surround, door handles, and headlight bezels. Other touches include silver fog-light frames, unique 17-inch wheels, and special 20th-anniversary badges. A front strut-tower brace is the only chassis upgrade. Color choices are limited to True Red, Crystal While Pearl, and a new color, Aurora Blue. Probably a salute to France, since it won’t be available for the U.S.A. Whatever it is, this fine touch ultimately creates a new handle on the Miata.

[Via http://evolveent.wordpress.com]

Toyota nei guai, problemi anche alla Prius

Il colosso di Nagoya, ammette ora problemi anche al sistema frenante Abs dell’ultimo modello della Prius, l’auto ibrida più venduta al mondo, simbolo del successo della casa automobilistica giapponese.

La portavoce di Toyota Ririko Takeuchi ha detto che il gruppo ha riscontrato problemi di progettazione, corretti per le auto in vendita da fine gennaio, ma sta ancora cercando di capire come informare gli acquirenti dei veicoli prodotti in precedenza.

Sono arrivate circa 180 segnalazioni di difetti del sistema Abs della Prius di terza generazione dagli Stati Uniti e dal Giappone.

Corriere.it

[Via http://paoblog.wordpress.com]

Sarcastic Secret: The Left Lane is for Passing

This is another one of those things that shouldn’t be a secret, but every time I go on the highway it seems like nobody knows about it.

I assume all my readers are perfectly safe drivers, only driving in the left lane when they need to pass another car, or in gridlock when proper traffic flow isn’t possible anyway. But if you know someone who blocks the left lane then you can share this with them as a subtle hint. Oh, and if someone shared this with you, they probably think you hate left lane bandits just as much as them.

We are constantly reminded by highway signs that say, “slower traffic keep right.” But, it’s not just the law, it’s common courtesy — we all need to share the road.

Keeping the left lane clear is important. Not just because it’s the other driver’s right to pass you, but because it is safer. When everyone plays by the same road rules, then everything is more predictable, there are fewer surprises and fewer accidents — that’s why these laws exist, they’re not just for fun.

One of these laws, at least in North America, is to pass on the left. If everyone did this, you would never have a car approach you from behind on your right side. Which, isn’t a big deal if you’re going to make a planned lane change, because if you didn’t see it already then you would check your blind spot and see them at that point. But, if you need to make an emergency maneuver, it’s nice to be able to count on the fact that nobody will be there and you’ve got a safe “Plan B.”

Some people defend their right to drive in the left lane by saying they don’t have to let the faster car pass because that car is speeding (and breaking the law). The fact is, we all drive at different speeds and we all believe that we are driving at the ideal speed (which it is, for us). I think George Carlin said it best, “Did you ever notice that anyone driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone driving faster than you is a maniac?” If they really are a maniac, that’s a great reason to move out of their way and let them pass.

I also see a lot of really slow drivers move immediately into the middle lane when they enter a freeway. I think they do this so they don’t have to deal with other cars merging at upcoming on ramps. Unfortunately, these slow drivers clog the middle lane which pushes the slightly faster drivers to into the left lane. In the name of safety and traffic flow, slow drivers should remain the right lane whenever possible.

While the exact laws may vary from country to country and state to state, the general rule is that the left lane is for passing (or the right lane in some places). If someone wants to pass you, the courteous and legal thing to do is: move over when it’s safe.

Broken Secrets

Written By: Chad Upton

[available on Kindle]

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PS – Do yourself a favor and pre-order The Book of Awesome — the hardcover rendering of a favorite blog of mine. For now, it’s around $15 at Amazon.com!

[Via http://brokensecrets.com]

Ford SHO's It's Best

The 2010 Taurus SHO is a fourth generation model of Ford’s family sedan class that features class-leading technologies barely found in any automobile on the market. Yes, it features the essentials like 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, but this sporty vehicle bears an opulent frame that’s sweeter than any Hershey’s Kiss.

Ford states the sedan produces V-8 engine power, achieving 6-cylinder fuel economy in the process. It’s V-6 engine mulls 263 horsepower, with the optional and more efficient twin-turbo EcoBoost engine pushing 365 horsepower. Cruisers can tally up to 17 mpg on the road, with 25 mpg on highway drives. Zip through lanes at a draw-dropping acceleration speed of 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds.

Carry out the standard navigation, music and phone commands with the popular voice-command SYNC system; while indulging yourself in the car’s Multi-Contour sears with Active Motion that feature massage functionality. 20-inch Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires and spoke wheels decorate the 2010 Taurus; a great amenity featured in the SHO’s $995 performance package upgrade that includes stiffer steering, bigger brakes and special axle ratios.

Round out features include safety luxuries such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert, MyKey parental programmability and Voice-Activated Navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link. The base runs for $38,596 and the recommended package model tagged at $43,250.

[Via http://evolveent.wordpress.com]

Valentine's Day History

Valentine’s Day or Saint Valentine’s Day is a holiday celebrated on February 14 by many people throughout the world. In the English-speaking countries, it is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other by sending Valentine’s cards, presenting flowers, or offering confectionery. The holiday is named after two among the numerous Early Christian martyrs named Valentine. The day became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished.

The day is most closely associated with the mutual exchange of love notes in the form of “valentines”. Modern Valentine symbols include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. Since the 19th century, handwritten notes have largely given way to mass-produced greeting cards.[1] The sending of Valentines was a fashion in nineteenth-century Great Britain, and, in 1847, Esther Howland developed a successful business in her Worcester, Massachusetts home with hand-made Valentine cards based on British models. The popularity of Valentine cards in 19th century America, where many Valentine cards are now general greeting cards rather than declarations of love, was a harbinger of the future commercialization of holidays in the United States.[2] It’s considered one of the Hallmark holidays.

The U.S. Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately one billion valentines are sent each year worldwide, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year, behind Christmas. The association estimates that, in the US, men spend on average twice as much money as women.[3]
Saint Valentine

Numerous early Christian martyrs were named Valentine.[4] The Valentines honored on February 14 are Valentine of Rome (Valentinus presb. m. Romae) and Valentine of Terni (Valentinus ep. Interamnensis m. Romae).[5] Valentine of Rome[6] was a priest in Rome who suffered martyrdom about AD 269 and was buried on the Via Flaminia. His relics are at the Church of Saint Praxed in Rome.[7] and at Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin, Ireland.

Valentine of Terni[8] became bishop of Interamna (modern Terni) about AD 197 and is said to have been killed during the persecution of Emperor Aurelian. He is also buried on the Via Flaminia, but in a different location than Valentine of Rome. His relics are at the Basilica of Saint Valentine in Terni (Basilica di San Valentino).[9]

The Catholic Encyclopedia also speaks of a third saint named Valentine who was mentioned in early martyrologies under date of February 14. He was martyred in Africa with a number of companions, but nothing more is known about him.[10]

No romantic elements are present in the original early medieval biographies of either of these martyrs. By the time a Saint Valentine became linked to romance in the fourteenth century, distinctions between Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni were utterly lost.[11]

In the 1969 revision of the Roman Catholic Calendar of Saints, the feastday of Saint Valentine on February 14 was removed from the General Roman Calendar and relegated to particular (local or even national) calendars for the following reason: “Though the memorial of Saint Valentine is ancient, it is left to particular calendars, since, apart from his name, nothing is known of Saint Valentine except that he was buried on the Via Flaminia on February 14.”[12] The feast day is still celebrated in Balzan (Malta) where relics of the saint are claimed to be found, and also throughout the world by Traditionalist Catholics who follow the older, pre-Vatican II calendar.

The Early Medieval acta of either Saint Valentine were excerpted by Bede and briefly expounded in Legenda Aurea.[13] According to that version, St Valentine was persecuted as a Christian and interrogated by Roman Emperor Claudius II in person. Claudius was impressed by Valentine and had a discussion with him, attempting to get him to convert to Roman paganism in order to save his life. Valentine refused and tried to convert Claudius to Christianity instead. Because of this, he was executed. Before his execution, he is reported to have performed a miracle by healing the blind daughter of his jailer.

Legenda Aurea still providing no connections whatsoever with sentimental love, appropriate lore has been embroidered in modern times to portray Valentine as a priest who refused an unattested law attributed to Roman Emperor Claudius II, allegedly ordering that young men remain single. The Emperor supposedly did this to grow his army, believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. The priest Valentine, however, secretly performed marriage ceremonies for young men. When Claudius found out about this, he had Valentine arrested and thrown in jail. In an embellishment to The Golden Legend provided by American Greetings, Inc. to History.com and widely repeated, on the evening before Valentine was to be executed, he wrote the first “valentine” himself, addressed to a young girl variously identified as his beloved,[14] as the jailer’s daughter whom he had befriended and healed,[15] or both. It was a note that read “From your Valentine.”[14]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine%27s_Day

Mazda of Lakewood

Toll Free (888) 472-8555

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