Toyota Giugiaro Quaranta Car

Monday, October 27, 2008

The Giugiaro Quaranta was unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. Powered by the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive, the Giugiaro Quaranta is equipped with a 3.3 liter gasoline V6 engine and two electric motors that together give 8-cylinder engine performance figures.

The engine of Giugiaro Quaranta is coupled with an E-CVT Electronic-Continuously Variable Transmission which is an automatic planetary gear transmission that features ratios varying infinitely as speed changes.

The Giugiaro Quaranta powerplant develops 200 kW total power and 288 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. The top speed for Giugiaro Quaranta is limited to 250 km/h and the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time is 4.05 seconds.

Giugiaro Quaranta

The “Quaranta” project is a concept car designed to celebrate Italdesign Giugiaro’s forty years of business in styling and technological research at the service of the automotive sector.

The Quaranta, world-premiered at the 2008 Geneva International Motor Show, is a synthesis of Italdesign Giugiaro’s unmatched experience of automotive design: from city cars to super sports-cars, from MPVs to medium-engined saloons up to and including luxury flagships and environment-friendly SUV, not to mention light/heavy duty commercial vehicles, in complete cooperation with leading manufacturers all over the world.

The Quaranta is an “extreme” product, an environment-friendly, 4WD super sports-car which incorporates a series of innovative aspects: its styling, but also its drive technology, which combines a hybrid engine with solar energy, and its internal layout which, despite its mid-mounted rear engine, can accommodate three adults and a child, also providing a generous luggage compartment.

The idea which inspired the Quaranta project is that of the first single-volume concept car with central engine and drive. The original reference is to the 1968 Bizzarrini Manta which, at that time, represented a major breakthrough in styling, now adapted to state-of-the-art technology and enriched with Italdesign Giugiaro’s forty years experience of research.

The style of the future

Despite its flat, highly compact shape, the Quaranta features a single-volume shape characterized by a continuous body line stretching from its clipped nose to the tail that exploits the almost horizontal rake of the windscreen.

Access to the cabin is “step-in” via an upper door incorporating the side ones. At the touch of an electric on/off button, the door opens upward in a downwind direction, regulated by proximity sensors. The door is hinged to the hood pillar and is aligned with a second upper rear door, for access to the engine compartment and boot.

The roof houses the array of solar panels, necessary to power the electric battery, in the space between the two doors. Along with the other solar panels positioned on the front end, these create a central opaque strip, a distinctive signature of the model, thanks to the interplay of light with the bright paint of the bodywork. The solar panels can generate a power of up to 250 W, sufficient for the functioning of the cockpit conditioning system and for recharging the electric battery.

The styling of the Quaranta prototype is further enhanced by the attention dedicated to surface aerodynamics, designed to ensure maximum possible efficiency and penetration, also by using sharp edges on the rear.

This can also be noted in the front end of the vehicle where the radiator grille has been eliminated and replaced by two side air inlets, positioned above the lighting clusters, which perform the delicate function of front stabilizers. The rear of the vehicle has also been conceived to improve overall aerodynamic performance: an attentively-molded spoiler, with a perfectly square-edged cut and a very technical design, has the scope of supporting the lower wing, modeled according to latest generation F1 styling, that makes up for the absence of the traditional upper stabilizer.

Styling research aimed at top aerodynamic performance is also reflected on the sides, characterized by extremely generous glazing stretching from the front fender to the tail and in which the air vents are housed, located after the doors but also along the sill, in which the water cooling ducts are inserted. The most innovative feature of the side profile is certainly the contour line, between the door-windows and the sill, which is “negative” in the shoulder section, a particular, absolutely innovative feature for super sports-cars.

Giugiaro Quaranta Car

Interiors: technology for safety and comfort

Inside, the most striking innovation can be found in the multi-control steering wheel which reflects an idea already incorporated in the 1980 Medusa, a prototype developed by Italdesign and on display at its stand in Geneva: all vehicle driving and control functions are concentrated on the spokes, where the stalks have been eliminated and replaced with keys. This guarantees easier control by the driver, in a central position which can be obtained due to the absence of the gearbox-transmission block tunnel. This is possible thanks to the electric four-wheel drive system which eliminates any obstacles on the floor pan, making it completely flat. The generously-scaled central space of the cockpit can accommodate two adults and a child, behind the driver. The dashboard has been conceived with a sporting, modern look, with clean-cut details matching the style of the exterior, and equipped with a vast array of instruments. These are organized on two levels: the screens of the side and rear TV cameras are positioned on the upper level, with particular attention to the left-hand view mirror, useful when overtaking; the lower level is dedicated to the management of the vehicle. The drive-panel also includes a visor for Xray sensors for night driving. The dark-colored leather and alcantara upholstery reflects the most refined Italian taste.

The lighting clusters are extremely modern: the low-beam lights are based on led technology, while the full-beam are of the Bi-xenon type. The direction indicators, the tail and rear stop lights are of the full led type, inserted in a single box but differentiated according to color, assembled and adapted by hand at Italdesign Giugiaro.

Last but not least, the Quaranta features 9 ½ by 20” alloy wheels, without hub caps for improved styling and aerodynamics, and four Vredestein tires as standard, which differ only in shoulder height: 275/35/R20 front and 275/40/R20 rear. The dimensions are certainly tight for a super sports-car but suitable for a 4WD car.

Mold-breaking mechanicals

The structure of the prototype is made up of the carbon monocoque frame onto which aluminum and special steel parts are assembled, while the windscreen and roof are made of stratified glass with UVA filter.

The Quaranta is fit with electronic four-wheel drive, divided in a small electric motor on the fore-carriage and the thermal engine/electric engine system located in a central rear position. This particular structure, which has seen Toyota’s involvement in the electronic control management, has made it possible to develop the vehicle on a 2620-mm wheelbase, ideal for a midengined car.

The batteries which assist the electric motors are located between the engine compartment and the cockpit and are powered directly by the solar panels. The Quaranta features a double fuel-tank, integrated in the supporting frame, with a total capacity of 60 liters, giving a mileage of up to 1000 km.

Dynamic asset is variable in two ride height positions: sporting and raised. Maximum ground clearance is 230 mm, an absolute record which means that the super sports-car can take any type of terrain in its stride.

The main technical aspect that distinguishes the mechanical design of the Quaranta is the weight balance and in particular the “weight centering”: all the mechanical weight of the vehicle is contained between the two axles, including the mufflers which are positioned in front of the rear wheels. Only the radiator and a large overhanging luggage compartment, able to accommodate two golfbags, remain outside.

The front suspensions also represent a breakthrough: designed according to F1 cars, they are equipped with a central mono-shock echoing an idea already presented by Italdesign – Giugiaro on the 2004 Toyota Volta and on the 1997 Alfa Romeo Scighera. The linkage mechanism of the levers guarantees exceptional stability in any type of situation, simulating a “multilink” mechanism. The links have been designed and engineered entirely by ITALDESIGN GIUGUIARO: the “ovalized” down tubes are made of special steel and the uprights of Ergal.

The entire Quaranta project is an idea of Italdesign Giugiaro, constructed in accordance with the classical formula of the package of services furnished to automotive manufacturers.

Quaranta confirms the classic Italdesign – Giugiaro versatile service formula for car manufacturers. The competence and capability of designing a new car model considering style development, frame development, safety and ergonomics analyses and mechanics development, starting only from a given functioning engine.

The chassis, bodywork and layout of the Quaranta prototype have been designed by the Engineering Division of Italdesign Giugiaro, while the mechanicals and electronics have been developed in cooperation with Toyota. The vehicle was entirely built at the Moncalieri facilities.

Giugiaro Quaranta Car Picture

The Italdesign Giugiaro construction process

The Italdesign Giugiaro construction and prototyping process, tried and tested during forty years of activity in the automotive sector but also extended to industrial design, preserves certain characteristics of technical specialization and production quality of unequalled value.

- Construction of a prototype involves various completely independent phases that can also be carried out with a modular approach. Starting from handmade drawings, the next step is Styling Research and definitive development of the master models, using state-of-the-art CAD technologies. In parallel, the phases of technical design of the prototype interior, or even of only some parts, can be integrated with style development, producing a unique technical result. This is the most complete, professional process that Italdesign can offer its clients. Following consolidation of the styling-engineering project, a full-scale mockup is built.

The mock-up gives the possibility of physically evaluating modifications and integrations and represents the basis for the subsequent construction of the final prototype. Italdesign can also carry out various technical tests, including the model crash-test;

- The prototyping phase, a mainly hand-crafted process with the aid of forefront automated systems, includes preparation of the assembly jigs (socalled negatives), usually constructed by hand in the workshop, and hitting models milled according to the style master models, useful for beating the sheets of aluminum or stratified carbon;

- Work on the interior is necessary in order to prepare the seats, facial, door panels and all the other elements inserted in the cabin of the vehicle. Lined fiberglass-reinforced parts are always constructed at Italdesign, and also the upholstery, available in any type of material or shape required;

- The above phases are followed by construction of the mechanical and structural parts of the prototype, preparation of the tooling and uprights necessary for the construction phase and beating of the parts, assembly of the structure, of the interior and accessories and lastly painting.

In the case of the Quaranta prototype, the door was designed and constructed entirely at Italdesign using a temporary piston tubular structure, subsequently reproduced and fastened to the chassis.

Giugiaro Quaranta Photo

Cooperation between Toyota-Italdesign Giugiaro

Cooperation between Italdesign Giugiaro and Toyota Group started with the supply of the high performance hybrid engine fit on the Volta prototype, displayed for the first time at the 2004 Geneva Show.

For the Quaranta, Toyota furnished Italdesign Giugiaro with a derivative of the latest available hybrid system, Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The innovative aspect of this engine lies in the ability of the electronic control system to regulate the power distributed by the electric motors to the wheels, making the clutch-gearbox-transmission block superfluous.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system guarantees power, acceleration and top performance still keeping high mileage, reduced emissions and extremely silent operation. The compact battery makes it possible to store the energy produced in the braking or deceleration phase instead of dispersing this as heat.

The electric motor is complementary to the thermal engine but can also operate independently, activated by the electronic traction control unit where ideal conditions exist.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system consists of a V6 3.3 liter gasoline engine and of two electric motors that operate in synergy, delivering a high power output, comparable to that of an 8-cylinder engine, but with fuel consumption and emissions lower than those of a 4 cylinder engine. To improve efficiency and handling, the intelligent E-Four system automatically activates two- or four-wheel drive, taking advantage of the increased handling and stability of four-wheel drive in acceleration, cornering or braking, and the reduced consumption and acoustic comfort of rear wheel drive at normal cruising speed.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system also includes the E-CVT Electronic- Continuously Variable Transmission, an automatic planetary gear transmission with ratios varying infinitely as speed changes.

The real innovation of the Quaranta prototype is reflected in the mid-ship positioning of a hybrid engine on a super sports-car that guarantees high performance with reduced consumption and low emissions.

Giugiaro Quaranta Technical data

Length (mm) 4450
Height (mm) 1230
Height from ground (mm) 165 / 230
Wheelbase (mm) 2620
Front/Rear overhang (mm) 960 / 758 (1014 / 808)
Front/rear width (mm) 1980 / 1982
Front/rear track (mm) 1759 / 1697
Front tires 275 / 35 / R20 Vredestein
Rear tires 275 / 40 / R20 Vredestein
Rims 9 ½ x 20” OZ
Windscreen angle of incidence 70°
Weight (kg) 1400
Drive 4WD
Front suspensions “Push-rod” type with overlapped triangular wishbones and central mono-shock-absorber
Rear suspensions Push-rod” type with overlapped triangular wishbones and two shockabsorbers
Values and driving performance
Displacement (cm3) V6 3311
Max. power (kW/rpm) 155/5600
System total power (kW) 200
Max. torque (Nm/rpm) 288/4400
Top speed (km/h) 250 (limited)
0 – 100 km/h (sec.) 4.05
Consumption (l/100 km, combined cycle) 7,1
CO2 emissions (g/km, combined cycle) 180




Posted by Advertman at 8:17 a.m. 0 comments  

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI

The Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI is a symbol that in the Seventies Alfa Romeo cars assigned only to the richest content, thus transforming them into real sports race to drive on the roads every day.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI
Intended for young audiences and sports, cars signed Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI offers more driving fun, more "handling", and more braking capacity. In a word, the dynamic behavior of a car doors on the roads every day feelings of the runway.

The stylistic choice is taken not to upset the external lines of cars as standard, but to limit the speeches just a few strokes, as well as those who want the ultimate in theme of sportsmanship, and want to know but do so without ostentation.

Finally, the insignia burnished aluminum and satin cap of an exterior rear (optional) out this particular version also offers an allocation of series of great value as shown by the air conditioning system and the Bizon VDC.

Daily in the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI can give feelings and return a real pleasure to drive, which is the interpretation of the absolute values of the Brand. In short, the new characterization Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI is the right answer for a customer who wants to enter the world of sports Alfa Romeo.

At the same time the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI debuts at a 2.4 JTDM 20v engine enhanced to 210 hp that develops a torque of 400 Nm at 1500 rpm. The release of the couple, whose maximum value is already a very low, it enhances the characteristics of readiness and response to pedal. Thus equipped the sedan reaches a maximum speed of 226 km / h (224 km / h for the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in just 8.4 seconds (8.6 for the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI).

Identical to the one mounted on Alfa Spider 2.4 JTDM, in most of the Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI is attached to the permanent 4x4 traction with three differentials (the central one type of self Torsen C). Heart of the project is the "Four-wheel drive Alfa Romeo Q4, which operates a permanent and dynamic allocation of 4-wheel traction on bringing the highest level of active safety and sportiness.

The differential central Torsen C self-manages the torque allocating 57% to the rear wheels and 43% to front wheels. The system also ensures excellent drive in all conditions of adhesion through the automatic control of any slippage. In detail, the distribution of the torque between the front and rear axles is adjusted on a continuous basis, depending of adhesion by the central Torsen differential C.

In terms of adhesion, the behavior is linear and progressively adapting to changing road conditions. This development "mechanical" it adds electronic stability control for a further increase in performance and safety margins, in keeping with the philosophy Alfa Romeo.

The Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon TI Q4 interprets the four-wheel drive in accordance with the Alfa Romeo philosophy: a system essentially "mechanical" which adds the contribution of more advanced electronic technology to ensure maximum comfort and driving pleasure, combined with the best and security.






Posted by Advertman at 8:12 a.m. 0 comments  

GMC Denali XT Hybrid Concept Car

The GMC Denali XT is a hybrid-powered sport utility truck (SUT) with small and Unibody construction.

Inspired by car-based pickup chassis, the design and layout of the GMC Denali XT concept is similar to the Chevrolet El Camino. Instead of the traditional body-on-frame method, which is normally used for trucks, the GMC Denali XT concept with a Unibody construction, it is still relatively easy (giving better fuel economy) and offer superior handling characteristics.

GMC Denali XT Hybrid Concept Car

With stiffness that is greater than most conventional, body-on-frame trucks, the Denali XT's Unibody structure supports a very capable truck platform. It also serves as a fortification for the four-wheel independent suspension, the Denali XT's performance feeling on the street.

The design and construction of the GMC Denali XT concept was developed by Holden Design, within the Australian arm of GM's global design and engineering network. The concept is characterized by a muscular body and wide, firmly planted stance. Minimal overhangs, 23 "wheels, elegant headlamps and a low roof profile help an aggressive, performance-oriented appearance.

GMC Denali XT Hybrid Concept

The Denali XT design includes a new take on GMC's iconic grille, with a prominent, four-bar element in addition to the large, red GMC logo and signature Denali background. Shock trousers fenders accentuate the wide road stance. The stance is also enhanced when the Denali XT is lowered on its air-adjustable suspension, a sleek appearance that simultaneously improves the aerodynamics.

GMC Denali XT Hybrid Concept Car Interior

Inside, the four-seat Denali XT concept combines mechanical functionality with leather-trimmed comfort. Billet-metal surrounds, controls and instruments convey the cold precision of an airplane cockpit. This is due to the heat of the semi-custom leather trimmed seats, center console armrest and door inserts.

GMC Denali XT Hybrid Concept Car Image

"The form language is smooth and structured to characterize GMC power. The details have deliberately contrasting mechanical aesthetic to mark GMC's engineering sophistication," said Warrack Leach, lead designer.

GMC Denali XT Hybrid Concept Car

Power for the GMC Denali XT concept comes from a 326 hp V-8 4.9-liter E85-capable engine with Active Fuel Management (a system that deactivates half the cylinders of the engine when not needed). Coupled with the V8 power is a two-mode hybrid electrically variable transmission, to reduce fuel consumption by more smoothly to change the gear so that the engine speed to remain at its optimum rpm at cruising speed, and when additional power is needed is electric motors in the transmission of additional GRÜNT. At low speed driving in the city of the electric motors provide 100% of the Denali XT is power.








Posted by Advertman at 8:06 a.m. 0 comments  

Driving in Bad Weather

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

  • Turn your headlights on anytime you need to turn your windshield wipers on--in rain, fog, sleet, freezing rain, or snow. It will help your visibility--and also help other drivers see you. (It's now the law in Maryland that you have to turn your lights on whenever you need to keep your windshield wipers on.)
  • If driving a white car during snow fall or after the snow has fallen, your car may be camouflaged by the snow. So turn on your headlights and make it easier for other drivers to see you.
  • In winter, keep an ice scraper with a brush in your car in case it snows or sleets. Also check that you have wiper fluid/de-icer in your car. If it gets messy while you are out, these will come in handy.
  • Double or triple the space you normally leave between you and the next car in wet whether. You'll need even more space to stop (up to ten times as much space) on slick roads. For more exact recommendations on stopping distances, check the chart on drive and stay alive site
  • Brake gently
  • Make sure your exhaust tail pipe is clear if you've had to dig your car out of snow or ice or if you've backed into a snow bank. If your tail pipe is blocked you could get sick or die from carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • When driving on slippery surfaces like ice or snow use gentle pressure on the accelerator pedal when starting. If your wheels start to spin, let up on the accelerator until traction returns.
  • Check that windshield washer works-you may need it in snow and sleet.
  • Watch out for severe weather warnings before you drive. If a strong storm come on while you're on the road and it's raining too hard to see, try to find a safe place to pull over until the worst of the rain is over. If you see a tornado coming your way, safey experts suggest you find shelter or if that's not possible, then get out of car and find a ditch to take cover in, protecting your head and neck. It's hard to outrun a tornado.
  • Listen to radio traffic reports and adjust your travel plans accordingly. (from *Drive Right book)
  • Keep windows and windshield clear. Make sure wipers are working. (*DR)
  • Leave a window open a little bit to keep windshield from fogging up and to give you fresh air. (*DR)
  • Watch for danger spots ahead. You've probably heard that bridges and overpasses may freeze before the roads do. (*DR)
  • When starting out in bad weather, test your brakes to see how far it takes you to stop. This tip was sent in by someone who didn't do this and ended up wrecking her car. She also called her dad on his car phone to tell him about the accident--and he was so upset, he wrecked his car, too. So her second tip is not to tell your parents that you've wrecked the car while they are driving.
  • If you are stuck in ice or snow, try putting your floor mats under the edge of the tires to give them traction.
  • Don't use cruise control in wet or slippery conditions. The cruise control may apply more throttle if the drive wheels start to slip.

Posted by Advertman at 8:14 a.m. 0 comments  

Driving in the Country

  • Watch out for deer and other large and small animals. If you see a deer approaching, slow down and flash your lights repeatedly. Often, the deer will run away.
  • Also, if you see one deer, watch out for others close by--they often travel in pairs or groups.
  • Watch out for pigs, chickens, cows, and skunks, too. (Several visitors have left comments about recent run-ins with these animals.)
  • When driving in the desert, watch out for animals like camels. One visitor from Saudi Arabia wrote in that a relative was severely injured in an impact with a camel.
  • This advice comes from Mexico. If you get an insect like a fly or a bee in your car, don't try to kill it while you're driving! It could take your attention off the road and you could crash. Instead, pull over and park as soon as possible and get the bug out of the car--or ask a passenger to take care of it.
  • Dusk and dawn are particulary bad times for running into deer--so be on the lookout for them.

Posted by Advertman at 8:14 a.m. 0 comments  

Driving around town

  • Avoid making left hand turns across busy intersections that don't have turn signals. It takes a while to learn how to gage the oncoming traffic. Better to go down a block or two until you come to a light, or plan a route that doesn't need this turn.
  • Don't make assumptions about what other drivers are going to do. The only thing you can assume about another driver with a turn signal on is that he has a turn signal on. He might not be turning at all and forgot to turn it off the last time he used it or has changed his mind.
  • When there's an obstruction in your lane, wait for oncoming traffic to clear before you pull around. Just because someone's blocking your lane doesn't mean you have the right of way in the next or oncoming lane.
  • Watch out for aggressive drivers and try to stay out of their way. They are the cause of a lot of accidents--especially on the beltways.
  • Watch out for anything that is connected to the U.S. Mail. (This tip submitted by someone who has had run-ins with a mailbox and a mail delivery station wagon, and a fender bender in front of the post office.)
  • Don't do anything that will cause another car's driver to slam on the brakes such as pulling out in front of him or swerving into his lane.

Posted by Advertman at 8:13 a.m. 0 comments  

Driving around school

  • Get to school five to ten minutes early and leave five minutes late to avoid the mad dash into and out from the parking lots. Many accidents happen when kids are rushing around.
  • If your school lot has perpendicular spaces (not angle parking), park in a space you can pull straight out of instead of having to back out. Backing out in crowed lots is tricky. Also, the Key Driving School has written me that pulling straight through a parking space is illegal in some states--so check your local traffic laws before using this tip.
  • Watch for kids getting on and off school buses--and don't run into the school buses, either.
  • Go slow
  • Don't leave valuables like wallets, shoes, leather jackets or sports equipment in your cars where they can be seen because they invite break-ins.
  • Always stop for school buses with flashing lights. The flashing lights mean that students are either getting on or off the bus--and may be crossing the street. Their safety depends on cars obeying this law.
  • Don't park in fire lanes around the school. Not only will you probably get a ticket, but you could be blocking the area where a fire truck needs to park in case of an emergency.

Posted by Advertman at 8:11 a.m. 0 comments  

You Must Check Your Car’s Battery

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

The battery in your car is an essential component when it comes to the ignition system. In addition to this, the battery also provides electrical currents to other components that are necessary to the proper functioning of your vehicle. Periodically, it is necessary to check your car’s battery. Here, you will discover the steps on how to do this, as well as some important considerations that should be made when it comes to this part of your vehicle.

One of the most common problems when it comes to car batteries is the accumulation of corrosion around the terminals. This is evident by a substance that looks almost like powder. If you identify this on your car’s battery, you should clean it off immediately. One of the easiest and most effective measures for doing so is by pouring a little Coca-Cola on the terminals and scrubbing them with a wire brush. It is best to do this when the battery terminals are disconnected from the battery posts.

The next thing that you will want to look for when it comes to checking your battery is whether or not this component is maintenance free. If it is not maintenance free, you will need to check the water levels in the battery. Normally, there will be approximately two lids on top of the battery that can be lifted by using a flat tip screwdriver. Once these lids are removed, you will see little tubes that hold water, as well as a fill line. It is important that you take some water and fill all of these tubes in the battery.

You will want to check to ensure that all the wires running to and from the battery are properly covered and protected. If a bare wire hits the wrong thing under the hood, it can turn into many different types of electrical complications.

f you find that your battery tends to gather a lot of corrosion, simply place a small amount of petroleum jelly on the battery terminals.

If you experience corrosion, you can clean away this substance with baking soda and a wire brush, instead of using Coca-Cola

If, for any reason, you need to disconnect the battery terminals, it is absolutely necessary to remove the negative first. When replacing the terminals, attach the positive terminal prior to the negative terminal.

Posted by Advertman at 10:26 a.m. 0 comments  

Clear the Road for Emergency Vehicles

There are a couple of emergency vehicles for which motorists should always be on the alert. A police car and an ambulance are the most commonly known; however, there are wreckers and rescue vehicles that also aid in emergencies such as the person whose car broke down in the road and have you stuck in traffic. These heroes need to be able to maneuver their way through traffic so the problem can be eliminated and you can be on your way. For those new drivers who skipped this section in the drivers handbook, here is how you should clear the road for an emergency vehicle to pass.

Posted by Advertman at 10:23 a.m. 0 comments  

Top 10 Tips for test driving a new car

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

  • Allow at least half an hour and drive on all kinds of road.
  • Make sure you can get in and out of the car easily.
  • Be sure you can adjust the seat and steering wheel/column so you're comfortable.
  • Check you can see the instruments clearly and reach the controls easily.
  • See if there's good all–round vision without blind spots. Try reversing into a parking space to check you have good visibility to the rear.
  • Take your children with you to see if they're comfortable in the back of the car.
  • Try your child seats to check they fit.
  • Make sure there's enough space for shopping bags, luggage, etc, and check you can fold the rear seats easily.
  • Check the boot's sill is low enough for you to lift heavy items in and out. Will you be able to unload shopping and luggage easily from the back?
  • Find out if it's easy to take out and re–fit removable seats – ask the owner's permission before you do this.

Posted by Advertman at 7:57 a.m. 0 comments  

Test Drive Tips of Buying a New Car

Whether you're buying privately or from a dealer, make it a priority to take a test drive, long before you start talking money.

A test drive is vital – it's your way of making sure you're comfortable, that you'll enjoy driving the car and that it's right for your needs.

Franchised dealers may even be prepared to let you test drive a new car for an extended time. Don't be shy to ask. After all, you're about to spend thousands of pounds.

If you're buying a second–hand car, the test drive is even more important. It's your main opportunity to make sure everything's in good working order – unless you've arranged for an engineer to look over the car for you.

Car Insurance

Make sure you are insured to carry out the test drive. Dealers will have cover specifically for this purpose but there is a high risk that you might not be covered if you test drive a car being sold by a private vendor.

Check your own car insurance – you are looking for the words on the policy that says you can 'drive another car with the owner's permission'. This is known as DOC or Driving Other Cars cover. Not all insurers include this so it really is important to check. Also, you should be aware that such cover is usually third party only. You can also check with the vendor to see whether they have extended their cover temporarily to 'any driver' so that they are covered while you test drive their car.

Talk to your insurer if you are unsure. Also, for a small additional premium they may offer you comprehensive cover over a short period of time so that you can test drive cars you are thinking of buying.

Engine & Suspension

Make sure the engine's cold before you start – feel the bonnet. If the car's warm, the seller could be trying to hide a starting problem. Check for signs of excessive smoke when you start the car and when you're driving. The engine should be quiet and pull smoothly. Make sure there are no unusual rattles or clonks from the suspension.

Steering & Brakes

The steering should be responsive. You should feel no vibration or 'free play'. The brakes should give you confidence and should stop the car in a straight line.

Clutch & gears

Check you can get the car into all gears smoothly without crunching. If the clutch doesn't start biting until the pedal has nearly reached the top, the clutch could be worn and may need to be changed.

For more information on what to look for during and after the test drive, see our DIY inspection.

Take your time

It's vital to take your time on a test drive. Take at least half an hour, even if you feel the seller breathing down your neck. Remember: you're about to lay out a lot of cash on a car you'll spend a lot of time driving.

You should aim to test drive two or three cars to get a feel for what you like and what you don't.

Family

Take your children with you if they're going to travel with you regularly. It's better to hear their objections before you buy a car, rather than every time you take them out.

Seating

If a car has removable seats, ask if you can take them out to see how easy it is. Seats can be heavy and awkward to carry. If it takes two people to do it, you might not want to go ahead with the purchase.

If you use child seats take them with you and make sure they'll fit as not all seats will fit properly in all cars.

Make sure you can adjust the seat and/or the steering so you've got a comfortable driving position. If you suffer from back pain, this is particularly important – think about hiring the same model for an extended test drive to be sure.

Posted by Advertman at 7:55 a.m. 0 comments  

The 8 commandments of motoring

1. Perfect its Road Handwerks-und recognize on, politeness on you from other road users appropriately react. Road handicraft covers each aspect Lenk-und to be acquired can only by a systematic beginning, around dangers and constant application of the fundamental rules. Good road handicraft makes possible to avoid a driver, pedantically and possibly dangerous situations. It prevents that not only accidents, but also the driving less exerting. Use your abilities, over from the difficulty.

2. Drive with consultation and overhaul as possible to arrange as fast. Good driving conditions requirements continuous planning and correct decisions, those in enterprise to be taken with consultation. It is not born a place for the halfhearted maneuvers doubts or uncertainty. It is not safe completely it should not be tried. To overhaul always the road should leave clearly for the approach at or after vehicles in a minimum at time too. Consultation uncertainty eliminates. If Safe, go!

3. And know the abilities of your vehicle develop car of senses. Car of senses is the ability, around the best from the vehicle without idiots or a vibration. Before strange vehicle will fast the driver should accustom itself on its controls, Beschleunigungs-und of delay values abilities and characteristics. Never more expect from them, than they are able, to give vehicles like drivers, have their borders. Drivers and vehicle must mixture, in order to guarantee, skillful driving.

4. Give correct signals. Employment at the horn and headlight thoughtfully. Use only the signals by the regulation permissible. Ambiguous signal is misleading and dangerous. The use horn is much neglected of some exaggerated a form of signaling and by others. It should as a person would aggressively use its voice, neither nor roughly. Flashing lights is an efficient form of signaling in the night and on fast roads. Give good signals to good time.

5. Concentrate the whole time, in order to avoid accidents. Concentration is the principal item of the good trip. It is a priority task, but often more neglect in. Complete concentration will ensure that each detail is considered. It is often the smallest detail, that the reference to happen what. If it misses, an accident, or at least an unpleasant experience, May result. Concentration helps observation.

6. Think before actively. The driver makes good progress, and with so few waiving apparent or efforts, so smooth those toward the Uneingeweihten appears he as reaction to situations automatically. Nothing could be further from the truth. The fact is that by the continuous concentration and thought, he has itself its trip to a fine art. Each danger and driving enterprise present problems represent, to be solved can by thinking. Fürsorgliche driver is valid the appropriate functions of the system, leads for each operation and maneuver in much time and therefore always is at the correct place to the correct time. Thinking and avoidance of accidents.

7. Practice and hold back, if necessary. Over back to follow a vehicle at a safe distance up to Straßen-und is traffic conditions permits it for outdated. This becomes request the submission of restraint above all, if in a rush. Overhauling or maneuver may be never tried, it is, it can with 100 per cent of security. Accidents are caused thereby because a situation became wrongly judged. If you have doubts, to wait.

8. Corner with security. Drive around the curve require the application of the principles for the curve technology and a thorough knowledge of the forces, those on the vehicle. The most frequent errors are the input too fast or acceleration before the Ausfah

Posted by Advertman at 7:48 a.m. 0 comments  

Driving with a cell phone dials disaster

Monday, September 15, 2008

A study released in February 1997 by the New England Journal of Medicine might make you put some distance between yourself and drivers busy talking on their cell phones. University of Toronto researchers discovered:

Cell phone users were four to five times more likely to have crashes than non-users.

Cell phone units that allow the hands to be free offer no safety advantage over hand-held units.

The main factor in most motor vehicle collisions is driver inattentiveness.

Posted by Advertman at 10:49 p.m. 0 comments  

Severe Weather Driving Tips

On ice or snow

Bridges and overpasses freeze first, so always slow down and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction.

Keep windows clear.

Keep your speed steady and slow -- but not so slow that your car gets stuck in deeper snow.

Use your brakes cautiously. Abrupt braking can cause brake lock-up and cause you to lose steering control.

To make Antilock Brakes work correctly, apply constant, firm pressure to the pedal. During an emergency stop, push the brake pedal all the way to the floor, if necessary, even in wet or icy conditions.

If you get stuck in snow, straighten the wheels and accelerate slowly. Avoid spinning the tires. Use sand or cinders under the drive wheels.

In high winds

It is best not to drive a trailer, van or other "high-profile" vehicle in high winds.

If driving in high winds, use extra caution near trailers, vans or vehicles carrying lightweight cargo.

When it rains

Slow down. Roads usually prove more slippery than they would seem.
Turn on your lights. Use the defroster or air conditioner to keep windows and mirrors clear.

When it's foggy

Stay to the right of the roadway.

Turn on your headlights -- day or night -- to low beam.

If you can't see the road's edge, pull off on the right -- well out of the traffic lane -- and turn on the emergency flashers. Wait until visibility improves before you continue.

In a Hailstorm -- Find shelter by driving under an overpass or bridge.

In severe thunderstorms -- Listen to your car radio and be alert.

If you see a tornado -- Never try to outrun a tornado. Get out of the car and find shelter. If you can not get to a safe structure, lie down in a ditch or low area. Lie face down to protect yourself from flying debris and cover the back of your head and neck with your hands. Stay alert for flash floods.

In an approaching Hurricane -- Avoid low areas and do not wait to travel inland.

Posted by Advertman at 9:58 p.m. 0 comments  

Safe driving tips

Each of us likes to think that car crashes are something that happens to the "other guy," not us.

In reality, of course, we all face a certain amount of risk every time we get in our cars. And that risk is significant. There were approximately 267,000 crash incidents reported to ICBC in 2006. Included in those numbers were 78,000 injured victims.

Fortunately, we can improve our odds of avoiding a crash. As drivers, much is within our individual control.


To help you stay out of trouble, we've prepared a number of safe driving tips. Some of these apply year-round (such as using the 2-second rule to keep a safe distance behind the car in front.) Others are seasonal. We tell you how to shop for snow tires or steer your way out of a skid, for example.

Cyclists too can do their share by observing the rules of the road and making safety their top priority. Remember to stop and look in all directions before cycling out of an intersection, driveway or lane. (The majority of children's cycling crashes are caused by the child riding out onto a roadway without looking.) And always wear a bicycle helmet — it's the law in B.C.

So please, use your RoadSense. Read these safe driving tips and start putting them into everyday use.

Posted by Advertman at 9:53 p.m. 0 comments  

Ultra Motor’s Light Electric Vehicle

Monday, September 8, 2008

On the heels of success in those to developing countries Ultra Motor’s Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) is coming to the U. S. and Europe this summer. The eco-friendly and economical urban transporter, the A2B Bicycle, goes for $2,200 and can reach a top speed of 20mph (32kph).

For what is worth, I can do that on a regular bicycle, but the question is for how long?

The bike comes with a tissue-box sized lithium battery that can be charged in a normal electric outlet just like you do with your laptop or mobile phone. Right now they’re working on rolling out a LEV Cities concept that includes the charging stations. Dock your bike, log in, pay for the electricity (with your card they say) and ride to work.

it seems better to me to have a bunch of electric bikes running around than the many other alternatives that aren’t working. And, if all these bikes had naked riders on them? That would be fun!


Posted by Advertman at 8:47 a.m. 0 comments  

Some Specialised Training I Found

Monday, September 1, 2008

I found some fun, so share with u :

Specialised Training

  • Protective / VIP Driving - including High Speed Evasive Driving
  • Stunt Driver Training - Learn the basics of stunt driving safely
  • Performance Car Coaching - If you want to get the most out of your special vehicle on a race track or just want to know how to drive safely in traffic, our team of driver trainers can spend some time with you and provide valuable information that will protect your investment and keep you safe.
  • Race / Rally and Drift Driver Training - we have trained V8 Supercar and F3 drivers and would be pleased to assist you in becoming successful in this highly competitive field.
And I don't know how level the writer be.

Posted by Advertman at 8:58 a.m. 0 comments  

2009 Nissan Murano

Friday, August 29, 2008

Nissan Murano Nissan Murano Nissan Muro
By Dan Neil / Los Angeles Times


To signal, I suppose, the model-year face-lift, Nissan designers gave the 2009 Murano a tensed chrome brow, a fierce furrowing that is, actually, quite a bit more aggressive than anything else in the Nissan garage. Compared with the new Murano, the lava-breathing GT-R has the countenance of the Buddha. I suppose my question is, does it convey aggression, really, or something akin to consternation, or constipation? This is the look I get when I listen to Kenny Chesney sing or when I eat heavy German food.

It was a problem that Alfred P. Sloan -- GM's empire builder and the man who practically invented stylistic obsolescence -- never contemplated: What if you design a car just right, so well-tempered to its mission and market that anything you do to it subsequently looks phony and trumped up? In other words, how do you market the new design when the old design is better?

The Murano inarguably got it right the first time. Introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model, the Murano was as smoothly contoured as the glass from which it took the name. Its fluid lines wasted no effort encapsulating the shape, a kind of high-sided, short-coupled wagon on big wheels: the crossover. The Murano was a huge hit for Nissan and -- along with the crazed FX35/45 performance utilities -- gave Nissan the hip, sassy-as-spit brand image it enjoys today. The Murano also kicked open the door for a crowd of slippery crossovers such as the Mazda CX-7, Buick Enclave and Hyundai Sante Fe. No good deed ever goes unpunished.

After a model-year hiatus (no 2008 model), the Murano comes back with a little more mustard on the ball, styling wise, but generally modest changes. The profile is about the same. The interior passenger room is about the same -- although rear cargo space is trimmed back a bit. The Murano is still based on the Nissan's midsize Altima platform, with routine model-freshening improvements in rigidity and quietness. It's still powered by Nissan's ever-present 3.5-liter V6, with a bump in output to 265 hp and 248 pound-feet of torque. And it's still routing power through a continuously variable transmission, although this generation of the device is much smarter and far more livable than the last. Compared with the earnestly plodding evolution in the rest of the Murano, the CVT retune is a thunderclap of innovation.

Here's a quick chalk talk on CVTs: A conventional geared transmission, whether manual or automatic, has only so many ratios to match engine speed (where output and fuel efficiency are maximized) and vehicle speed. Conventional transmissions, then, leave a lot of fuel efficiency on the table. A CVT, which uses a drive chain between two variable-diameter pulleys, essentially has an infinite range of gear ratios and so allows the engine to run at optimum speed for any given load.

The trouble with CVTs is their reaction time: You give the car the gas and there's this long moaning engine note as the CVT computer system slowly orients the pulleys to optimum ratios. A lot of cars with CVTs sound as if they are having a full-body massage, even though the CVT is operating as designed.

Nissan's new CVT software works a lot better. The step-off acceleration is respectable, and the passing-speed response is all but indistinguishable from an automatic's kick-down passing behavior. Once throttle demand slackens, the CVT quickly falls into a mellow overdrive mode.

The payoff for all this hot, gear-on-gear action is fuel economy: The Murano gets 18 miles per gallon city, 23 mpg highway. That's the same as the former, less-powerful Murano, and it's the same rating in both the front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions. Usually, AWD versions pay a fuel economy penalty. Under the circumstances -- which is to say, when gas costs more than reasonably priced Chablis -- 18/23 mpg isn't a marquee statistic. Still, it's better than a lot of Murano competitors with the same room and less power.

A couple housekeeping notes: The Murano comes in three trim levels (S, SL and LE) and two editions, front-wheel drive and AWD. The base FWD version retails for $26,330, and the utterly blissed-out LE AWD (with the 30 GB hard-drive-based navigation/audio head, rear-seat DVD, 20-inch rims and lots more) goes for about $39,000.

Nissan has gone to some trouble to refine and update the interior, drawing heavily from the Infiniti larder. The center-stack controls are direct lifts from the company's premium brand. There are grace notes here and there. The steering wheel is tilt and telescopic. The LCD display is handsome and intuitive. There's even a push-button start system, with which I managed to somehow kill the battery even though I had the key. Awesome.

If you've driven a Murano, you've driven this one. It's fairly well planted and agile, considering the bar-stool height. The brakes and steering do their thing without incident or complaint. But I must say -- as the spoiled owner of a late-model Honda Odyssey -- the body control could be better. The Murano floats and sways down the highway, and when it encounters broken pavement it takes two or three oscillations for the suspension to re-compose itself.


Here's what I like: I like the reclining rear seats, which make a fairly cramped compartment downright luxe. I like the rear seat lever releases along the rear bulkheads, which allow you to drop the seats easily while loading. I also like the power rear-seat return that raises the seats again, either from buttons in the rear or in the cockpit. These are all features that, while not unique in the market, more than earn their suburban keep.

Still, for me, the Murano is betwixt and between. If I've got to have a luxe crossover -- and I owned Nissan stock -- I'd go for the smaller but infinitely more charismatic Infiniti EX35. If I needed a kid-mobile, the Murano just doesn't have the ease of access or storage. If I needed a sporty crossover, I'd be sorely tempted to wait for the new FX35/45 twins, coming this summer.

Have Nissan product planners bracketed the Murano out of its reason for being? No wonder it has a headache.

Posted by Advertman at 9:01 a.m. 0 comments  

Bentley Continental GT

Bentley Bentley Bentley Bentley Bentley
The Bentley Continental GT is the first completely new model made by Bentley since this mark belongs to the Volkswagen Group, and also the first new Bentley since 70 years ago.


Bentley Continental GT

The Bentley Continental GT is manufactured in the Bentley plant in Crewe (UK), including assembly of the engines. The designer of the bodywork is named Dirk van Braeckel, who has deliberately avoided a design 'retro'.


Bentley Continental GT

It is a coupe motor front, two doors and 2 +2 seats. Move the 12-cylinder engine in 'W' also have the Volkswagen Phaeton, but modified by Bentley. The cylinder capacity remains the same -5,998 cm ³ - but has two turbochargers KKK, with which the absolute maximum pressure supply is 1.7 bars.


Bentley Continental GT

What has succeeded Bentley Continental GT with these turbochargers blowing soft is a maximum power and maximum torque for its relatively low cylinder capacity: 560 hp and 650 Nm, but with a maximum torque virtually constant throughout the system useful engine. It and 650 Nm at 1,600 rpm and 644 Nm preserved when the engine turns regime maximum power, 6,100 rpm.

Bentley Continental GT

The Bentley Continental GT has some unusual features in very powerful turbo engines: its compression ratio is neither low (9 to 1), has a maximum production nor is low (6,300 rpm) and requires no gasoline for 98 NOT under any circumstances.

Bentley Continental GT

The Bentley Continental GT gearbox is ZF, and six-speed automatic with sequential controls on the steering wheel. According to Bentley, the Bentley Continental GT is the fastest four-seater in the world.

Bentley Continental GT

The Bentley Continental GT maximum speed is not self-limiting, and reaches 306 km / h, has a rear spoiler that deploys when the car was moving fast. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 4.7 s (the Mercedes CL 65 AMG makes it in 4.5).

Bentley Continental GT

The description of the suspension is the same as that of a Phaeton, parallelogram deformable in the two axes. It also has pneumatic springs and a buffer electronically controlled continuously variable hardness (That does not mean it is the same). It has stability control, disconnect through a button on the dashboard. The series will tire of 19 "in diameter.

Bentley Continental GT

Although it has elements in common with the Volkswagen Phaeton is not exactly the same chassis, the Bentley Continental GT has less battle (2,745 mm to 2,881).
It is a four-seater designed for people of high stature, the trunk measured 370 l. Part of the internal volume steals a fuel tank of 90 litres.

Bentley Continental GT

The Bentley Continental GT rear seats are folding and offer the possibility of carrying long objects in the interior. The safety equipment is standard in a car together (eight airbags and tensors emergency in all places).

Bentley Continental GT

Among the equipment, in addition to the normal range in a car of this price, there are things like a Breitling watch, with the typography of the instrumentation that had the Bentley before World War II.

Bentley Continental GT

It will be up for sale gasoline and coupe body in the second half of 2003 for a price without taxes of € 137069. Until now, Bentley Continental GT has received 3,000 deposits account, of which 75 percent are for people who have never owned a Bentley.

Posted by Advertman at 8:32 a.m. 0 comments