Black Boxes for Automobiles

The Black box is the technical term for a device with an input and output attributes. According to some sources, an object can be technically called a black box though it’s not literally black; a transistor; a cassette or any recording device may be called a black box.

Black box is a device or object which records audible data. In aircraft technology, it records all communications made in the cockpit of an aircraft while in flight. This had been very popular and helpful in reporting and detecting the causes of aircraft crashes.

Today, this technology is being thought of to be installed on automobiles. Adolfo V. Bague, an Argentine inventor has won a patent for a data recorder designed to be installed in cars to capture information about traffic accidents. He claims that his invention is not merely a modification of the black boxes which are used in aircrafts. He explained that an aircraft black box is large, heavy and very power consuming which proves to be impractical for cars. Despite, it uses very expensive technology which can disappoint car buyers. Bague claims, that he originally designed a recording device that are ideal for cars.

The invention includes multiple sensors, a microphone and cameras. A microprocessor and a data storage memory are housed in a tamperproof, waterproof and fire resistant box that can be removed from the car after an accident. The information that can be recorded during the accident are ''braking pressure, brake temperature, brake line hydraulic pressure, average speed, acceleration or deceleration in one or more dimensions, rate of turning, steering angle, compass direction of travel, impact, tire pressure, cruise control status, windshield wiper status, fog light status, defroster status, and geographical positioning information,'' Mr. Bague wrote in his patent.

Come to a bad time

The 2009 model year version of the Ram looks like a Charger. And that makes the Ram look more aggressive. The body and the rear of the 2009 Ram is unchanged. But since production of the 2009 Ram is still far off, it is possible that there will also be changes made to the rear and body of the Dodge Ram. With General Motors and Toyota both having new full-size pickups in showrooms, Ford is understandably keen to push up the development cycle of its pivotal Ford F-150, likely due as a 2009 model.

The ford and Chrysler came to sudden fall and at horrible time as they get ready to bring their new updated pickups to the market, the full-sized pickup segment. At 1.65 billion the segment is expected to fall about 500,000 units this year to an all-time-low.

The Ford’s best-selling vehicle is the Ford F-Series and the Dodge Ram is no less for Chrysler. Before the market gets any worse both companies were counting heavily on the two updated models but are now scrambling to get rid of their 2008 inventories. With the $4 a gallon average aside, even devoted large-pickup can’t afford to buy a new model since the trade-in values are decreasing significantly as demand weakens. For the past three months sales in the pickup segment have been falling. Ford’s F-Series, the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. lost its number one spot last month to the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and the Toyota Camry.

Ford CEO Alan Mulally says, “The most important thing is to just bring down the production but also have a very successful launch,” “Later on, we’ll figure out what is the right (production) footprint for the long term.”

BMW M1 Hommage concept

CAR has the new issue to reveal, The BMW is preparing the M1 Hommage concept for production." We have the know-how, we have the right engine, we even have the infrastructure to build such a car,’ vows BMW board member Herbert Diess. The supercar was shot exclusively for CAR, and following interviews with BMW executives, the July issue reveals key project details including:

• • The timetable for production
• • The three-strong powertrain line-up
• • The lightweight body construction
• • The plan for ‘heron-wing’ doors, and a driver-focused, multi-layered interior
• • And why BMW’s new supercar won’t be called M1

The head of design Adrian van Hooydonk told the CAR that the car was nothing more than a celebration of BMW design and had no plans of making production version, when the BMW released the M1 Hommage concept at the Concorso d'Eleganza 2008 di Villa d'Este. The car was revealed with no engine, no interior, and it is simply had working headlight and a steering.

According to CAR, BMW is working on the production model. “We have the know-how, we have the right engine, we even have the infrastructure to build such a car,” said BMW board member Herbert Diess.

The July issue of CAR reveals the timetable for production, and why the car won't be called the M1 and the powertrain line-up. . Supposedly the lightweight body construction with ‘heron-wing’ doors will be driver focused with a multi-layered interior. It is expected to go head-to-head with the Audi R8.

MX-5: The Best of Its Class

The Mazda MX-5, still popularly known as the Miata is a sleek and well-engineered convertible. It is a 2-door, 2-passenger convertible sports car, available in 8 trims, ranging from the SV to the Grand Touring Power Retractable Hardtop. It is released as a Special Edition MX-5 with an exclusive Saddle Brown folding top. According to the usnews.rankingsandreviews.com, this car ranks first out of ten Affordable Sports Cars.

“The SV is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 166-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The Grand Touring Power Retractable Hardtop is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 166-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.” It is available with a choice of an automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a five-speed manual transmission.

Edmunds.com says that the new exterior as "a stronger face, more rakish lines and accentuated fender contours." Head and tail lamps are mounted inboard for better compactness. Great designs evolve over time but the door mirrors continue the elliptical theme used in the original MX-5 Miata.

Passenger-side airbags and standard drivers–side airbags provides safety without sacrificing the beauty of the interior. It features an ear-blasting entertainment system which is made up of a BOSE 7-speaker AM/FM/6-CD. Overall, interior quality and appearance are way better than any past MX-5 Miata. The hardtop opens or closes in 12 seconds, and consumes no luggage space.

Reviewers see its soft top and new power-folding hardtop as the best in their class.

A Hybrid for Nissan

The Altima Hybrid Electric is Nissan's first hybrid car. It is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan. Nissan have had an agreement with Toyota in using some of its hybrid technology in the new Altima for the 2007 model year.

It is a 158-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and 40-horsepower electric assist motor. Torque-wise it’s a stump-puller, with 162 pound-feet from the gar engine and 199 from the electric motor. Its mileage reaches up to 35 miles a gallon in the city and 33 on the open road. This hybrid has a 20-gallon tank, so it must reach an approximate distance of 700 miles.

They say that it is the first hybrid that drives like Prius, this Altima hybrid is also a full hybrid, so it can be powered purely by electricity at low speeds.

Here are some features included in the new Altima; 16-inch alloy wheels, Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, power windows/door locks, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system with auxiliary audio input jack, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS) and dual-zone automatic temperature control that includes an Altima Hybrid-specific electrically powered A/C.

The 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid ranks 20 out of 25 Affordable Midsize Cars. In the US, they are selling this only on states with strict clean-air regulations where the automaker needs near-zero-emissions cars, because they think they will have higher buyer interest. These are namely; California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Defective pumps overcharge customers as fuel prices soar

Every one of us could be in store for a sharp increase in vehicle costs as auto manufacturers are oblige to transact with adverse exchange rates, increasing raw material rate and new fuel-economy and productions rules. These issues are growing cost pressures on car producers and it shows the trouble will expected be passed on to purchasers.

As fuel rates persist to skyrocket to record highs, many consumers are ever more keeping cautious of just how much they are paying at the loading station or pump. However, latest information in the U.S. asserts defective fuel pumps can be partially responsible for the higher cost of fuel and customers are being overpriced with no further notice.

This trouble is approximately happens to some rural places where older loading stations have just kept on using their original and old pump. The stations’ minor sales amount and low income limits mean improving or changing the pumps with latest products that can hold the higher prices is almost not possible. A new pumps price is between $10,000 and $15,000 apiece, while upgrading cost over $650 for every pump.

A momentary answer for this problem has done, called ‘half pricing’, is permissible in some places. The procedures engage posting the price of half a gallon of fuel, and after that, doubling-up the sum shown on the pump after loading.

This isn’t the first time the crisis has take place, on the other hand. In 2005, the jump past $3 per gallon led a lot of stations to improve or change their pumps with meters capable of $3.999. The upgrade was quite limited, and now lots of of those holders are experiencing very similar circumstances again and again.

The GT-R Concept

The Nissan GT-R is a coupe created by Nissan, and released in Japan on December 6, 2007. Nissan showed the GT-R Concept as the prospective successor to the R34. It is expected to be released internationally by early June of 2008.

“It is powered by an all-new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 "VR38" engine, featuring plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system. The Nissan GT-R's new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm.” It can reach the top speed of 193 mph.

It has got a super lightweight forged aluminum wheels with knurled bead area, which was designed to maximize tire adhesion to the wheel under extreme condition. Its body construction consist of super silver special metallic paint, with an 8-stage process including three clear coats and hand polishing to achieve a lustrous, liquid effect.

This car also features a long list of safety and environmental features, including, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stop lamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, "super wide beam" headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade wipers.

For me, it may not the best looking car in the world but who cares as long as it is incredibly fast. And in any sense, I'll reserve judgment for its looks until I see one in person. This thing is surely going to be a beast on the road. I'm sure it'll be a blast to drive. Pricing for the sports car starts at $69,850 - $71,900 for the premium edition.

Ford - A cheerful situation for a turnaround

As several cheering marks begin to become known from Ford Motor's turnaround tactics, a lot of the credit is probably go to Mark Fields (president of Ford Motor Co.) Also known as the “The Leading Man”.

Ford Motors proclaimed $100 million earnings in the quarter, although sales lagged General Motors and Toyota. I think Ford as a totally underrated corporation that at last is manufacturing first-rate vehicles, in many places around the globe, moreover, I don't believe expensive gasoline costs will have greatly outcome on the turnaround.

Ford's continuing Way Forward improvement preparation - with full-year profitably assurance for coming 2009 - has become face-to-face into a trade and industry slump that has effect sales all over the industry.

Soaring gas prices have caused purchasers to insist many small cars, which are worse profitable in all compare to the large SUV’s that have influenced Ford's incomes for long time. Its upcoming brand-new small car model, Fiesta, won't arrive to public in the USA until 2010.

If the profitable quarter keeps on going, Ford Motor for this time is promoting for merely 14 times next year's profits. With incomes about to $40 billion in the quarter, a business person who is smart and high-personality definitely might cut the fat as of that as well as reverse a profit, and that is precisely what turnaround expert CEO Alan Mulally is doing.

I'm pleased that citizens and the stock market at last understand that Ford is creating a brilliant product. Ford has been for many years but in reality they seem to have gotten it as one now. Cars are lastly receiving as much consideration as trucks and it confirms.

BMW M1 Homage

BMW introduced the world to their M1 Homage concept at the Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance last April 2008. The concept vehicle uses a mid-engine layout and borrows its styling from both the original M1 and the Turbo show car. The reason the car was introduced is to mark the 30th anniversary of the BMW M1, which to this day is still one of the most stunning sports cars ever created. It's been thirty years since the first BMW M1 supercar rolled out of the company’s facility in Munich, Germany.

The styling is directly influenced not only by the original M1 but also from the M1’s inspiration which is the BMW Turbo Concept. In the original M1, the body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, an Italian automobile designer. Taking inspiration from the 1972 BMW Turbo, the M1 is remembered as a very smooth and well polished supercar in the true BMW tradition.

I've always been a fan of the old M1's looks. I thought they were outdated already but with this new vehicle, it looks like the company has just bred a new M1.

Cool features from the M1 Homage include "invisible headlamps" and a squat version of the trademark BMW grille. The new wave “cheese grater” wheels and the double roundels at the rear corners were also very noticeable and they added sophistication to the car.

I’m less convinced though that this car would be making its way to the for real as a production vehicle after seeing it at the show. I hope that they would actually produce it. I surely would want to see one at a local BMW dealer’s.

Honda Civic GX: Part Of 'Greenest Vehicles Of 2008' List For The Fifth Straight Year

Honda’s continuing effort in enhancing environmental-friendly and fuel efficient vehicles had paid off by earning top honors from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as the "greenest vehicles of 2008". This award recognizes the company’s dedication in the application of efficient alternative fuel technologies. According to the Auto Channel, the Civic GX natural gas vehicle took the crown of being one of the greenest vehicles with a rising thermostat for the fifth straight year.

The 11th annual ACEEE's "Green Book(R) Online" results were announced by the American Honda Motor Co., Inc. a few days ago. The Civic GX topped the list along with the gasoline Civic, Fit and Civic Hybrid. In addition to this, this is the eighth consecutive year that a Honda car achieved the top ranking and the seventh successive year that Honda vehicles seized a minimum of four spots in the top 12.

"The ACEEE awards speak to the commitment Honda has made to lead the industry in lowering emissions, increasing fuel efficiency and reducing dependence on oil. Honda continues to set the standard for socially and environmentally-responsible automotive products and our commitment to alternative fuels will further expand with the zero emissions FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle coming to market this summer," says John Mendel, the executive vice president of American Honda.

The company holds a long and glorious history of environmental leadership that includes the unveiling of the America's first hybrid, the Honda Insight.

The first vehicles to meet stricter emissions standards, includes:

• The first gasoline Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV), the 1996 Honda Civic.
  
• The first gasoline Ultra-Low Emissions vehicle (ULEV), the 1998 Honda Accord.
  
• The first gasoline Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV), the 2000 Honda Accord.
  
• The first Advanced Technology Partial-Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), the 2001 Civic GX natural gas vehicle.

Toyota Unveils Green Sporty Car

Japanese auto making juggernaut Toyota has been the face of the green revolution in the automotive industry. Although the automaker is not the first to offer a hybrid to consumers especially in the United States, its Prius is what caught the attention of many. But Toyota is not just about green cars.

Recently, the automaker launched a sports car. When you hear the word sports car, you might think that it is one of those fast machines that guzzle gas as it rack up the miles. But this one has a Toyota badge on it so we can safely assume that this is a green car.

The automaker announced that the Future Toyota Hybrid Sports or FT-HS concept will give consumers the best of two worlds. If you want a fast car, this is the one for you. And if you want a car which produces very little emission then, this is for you too.

Doug Soden, manager of product development at Toyota said: "There is a stronger need for hybrid vehicles to be on the market, or much more fuel efficient vehicles. Whichever way you look at it, whether it is a petrol-electric or hydrogen-electric, there needs to be that hybrid interface."

I just hope that this is not a hybrid just for the sake of it being a hybrid. I mean, the FT-HS should be a hybrid not because it's what people with money want. It should be a hybrid because there is a need for vehicles to reduce their greenhouse gas emission. And if the second case is true for this sports car, then Toyota should have designed it to be fast and really "green". Also, it should be as an Acura valve cover gasket.

Museum Of Modern Arts To Feature Mercedes-Benz Bionic Car

I never knew some automakers can make great philosophers too. Not until, I came across Daimler Chrysler’s philosophy. As we all know, Daimler Chrysler is the leading automobile manufacturer in terms of technological advancements. And it lives by these philosophies: Thinking the unthinkable. Looking beyond the horizon. Leaving familiar paths and giving new ideas a chance.

Daimler Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz Technology Center’s commitment to safety, comfort and most importantly to environmental compatibility complemented by its engineer’s creative minds paved the way for the Mercedes-Benz bionic car -- a concept vehicle inspired by nature but utilizes the diesel engine technology for practical use. According to daimlerchrysler.com, this bionic car features qualities similar to a fish -- with streamlined contours and outstanding aerodynamics. Biologists, bionics scientists and automotive researchers took the challenge of finding the ideal creature that suits their concept of a car transformed from nature to technology. Finally, they found all the qualities they’ve been looking for in Ostracion Cubicus better known as the boxfish -- agile and streamlined at first sight but is a good swimmer.

By finding homes in the coral reefs, lagoons and seaweeds of the tropical seas, the boxfish has developed good maneuverability -- great characteristics that is common with Daimler Chrysler’s ideal car.

The Mercedes-Benz bionic car, a four-seater compact car with two doors, windscreen, glass roof and a tailgate, 4.24 meters long, 1.82 meters wide and 1.59 meters high. It also incorporates cameras as substitute for exterior mirrors and rear wheels covered with sheets of plastic flush-fitted door handles.

The bionic car is equipped with a 103 kW per 140 horsepower direct-injection diesel engine, consumes 4.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers and has a top speed of 190 kilometers per hour. Hopefully, it comes with high-quality oil filters as well though it promises about 80 percent lower nitrogen oxide emissions using its selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology.

Starting on February 24 up to May 12, this bionic car from Mercedes-Benz will be displayed in the “Design and Elastic Mind” exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, which honors and recognizes the powerful innovations and latest developments in science, research and design.

Indeed, by exploring the beauty of one's philosophy, anyone can turn simple things into amazing achievements.

Volvo Launches Its 15 Millionth Car

Indeed, life in the car industry (as in all other fields of business) is such an unpredictable game. Nothing manifests it best than Ford’s luxury brand Volvo which has produced its 15 millionth car -- an all-new convertible Volvo C70, as reported by the AutoChannel yesterday.

According to Wikipedia, Volvo founder Asaar Gabrielsson, upon losing his wife in a car accident, promised to uphold the production of safe cars. On April 14, 1927, the first Volvo car, called Volvo ÖV 4, was introduced in the Swedish market. Continuing its production had been a struggle for Volvo particularly during World War II. It took the company 23 years before it produced its first 100,000 cars. At present, that is equivalent to only three months of production. See the difference?

Autounleashed.com reported that the new convertible Volvo C70, like the Volvo ÖV 4 that signifies “Open Car” with four cylinders, is also an open car -- a sports car, noted for its functionality and spaciousness. Also, it boasts of its two cars-in-one capacity, which is its ability to transform from coupe to convertible at the touch of a button via its three-piece retractable top. Hmm, it must be equipped with high-quality performance pulleys, musn't it?

However, reviews from edmunds.com said that although the new Volvo C70 has qualities that are proven to be user-friendly with its comfortable interior and safety features, it also comes with a middling acceleration and braking performance as well as an average steering feedback. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine which is capable of producing 227 horsepower. Other important characteristics of the convertible Volvo C70 include a leather steering wheel and gearshift knob plus revamped air vents.

The convertible Volvo C70, produced in Volvo’s factory at Uddevalla, Sweden, was launched yesterday as Volvo celebrated its 8oth anniversary -- marking another milestone in Volvo history.

Teens Unite To Prevent Car Crashes

Car crashes is among the primary cause of several fatalities for teen drivers in the past years. It’s sad to know that they pay a major price for being too neglectful and aggressive behind the wheel whereas control arms won’t even save their precious lives. As a result, dedicated teenagers in the U.S., students from 25 different schools, came together and compete to generate a significant and convincing safe driving communication campaigns. According to the Auto Channel, the program is intended to encourage their friends and classmates of the hazards of perilous behavior while driving.

Project Ignition sponsored by State Farm(R) and organized by the National Youth Leadership Council(R), announced the ten finalist schools for this year. Here are the finalists in the fourth year of the program:

• Ada High School - Ada, Okla.
• Bergen County Technical School - Paramus, N.J.
• Bishop McNamara High School - Forestville, Md.
• Harry D. Jacobs High School - Algonquin, Ill.
• Howenstine High Magnet School - Tucson, Ariz.
• Louisburg High School - Louisburg, Kan.
• Medina Valley High School - Castroville, Texas
• Nease High School - Ponte Vedra, Fla.
• Owen Valley High School - Spencer, Ind.
• Upper Arlington High School - Columbus, Ohio

"Project Ignition embodies the true meaning of service-learning and how teens can have a direct impact not only on the lives of their peers, but also on the community. Teen driving behavior and habits are a major factor in teen driving accidents. Project Ignition uses service-learning as a tool for young people to educate themselves and their neighbors on the risks they face every time they get behind the wheel," says Dr. James Kielsmeier, the president of NYLC.

Nearly 7,000 teens, ranging from 16 to 20 years old, were involved in deadly car accidents in the United States last year. The death rate for drivers’ age 16 to 19 years, based on miles driven, is four times that of drivers' aged 25 to 69 years according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"Today's young people are faced with hazards both inside and outside the vehicle. Through service-learning, the Project Ignition program empowers teens to influence their peers and make a positive impact on driving behaviors and attitudes. State Farm's goal is to make the roads safer for all drivers and help save lives," says Kellie Clapper, Assistant Vice President of Community Relations for State Farm.

New York International Auto Show Features First-Ever Virtual Garage

“I’m a new lover of cars. I found my favorite car (the Shadow Grey Aston Martin Vanquish) was discontinued and I think my heart died a little. So I’ve begun to dedicate myself to finding my own car, one that I could tune to my personality and style and ride it into the sunset. Can you help me?”

Those were words posted by 19-year-old car enthusiast Kitsune of New Jersey at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) Virtual Garage, accessible at autoshowny.com.

For the first time in auto show history, the NYIAS now features a Virtual Garage, an online publication of car enthusiasts’ personal garages to promote communication and friendship among present and future generation of car lovers. How? It’s simple. By logging in to the NYIAS’ Virtual Garage section, members get the chance to upload photos and videos of their cars, provide some personal information, become a “fan” of other members and discover other members’ garages while non-members can register to avail of the same privileges. Like maybe you have an Acura car that’s so much dear to you. So you go and show the world why. It may be because of the outstanding quality of its MDX bug shield. Surely, you’ll learn more from others who have mutual sentiments as yours.

At edmunds.com, Show Director Candida Romanelli said that the virtual garage is a great opportunity for all car enthusiasts around the world to keep in touch with each other and share personal stories about their cars.

Online community group was initiated by facebook.com and myspace.com. The NYIAS is the first auto show to adopt the same practical and technological system.

According to AutoChannel, this year’s NYIAS will unveil more or less 1,000 collections of innovative and top-of the-line vehicles including impressive concept cars. The NYIAS, North America’s oldest auto show, will be held at the Javits Center next month starting from March 21 to 30.

GEMA Plant, Noted For Operational Excellence By Shingo

Focus. Practice. Commitment to outstanding results. These highly-regarded “virtues” in business processes make a Shingo Awardee - considered as the “Nobel Prize of Manufacturing.”

Based from a report in Autochannel, on the 20th Annual Shingo prize for Operational Excellence Conference in Dallas, Texas scheduled this coming March 31 to April 3, the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) plant in Dundee, Michigan that holds facilities in producing fuel-efficient engines for Chrysler will be receiving the 2008 Shingo Silver Medallion for Operational Excellence. Last year, it also bagged the same award making it as the sole automotive manufacturer to receive such recognition.

According to Vice President for Chrysler Limited Liability Company (LLC) Manufacturing and also a member of the GEMA Board of Directors, Richard Chow-Wah, it is a pleasure to be receiving such recognition which he considers a confirmation that they accomplished their mission of setting a revolutionary pace in engine manufacturing by maximizing manpower, processes, technologies and systems. Meanwhile, Global Engine Manufaturing Alliance LLC President Bruce Coventry dedicates the success to the committed and hardworking members of the GEMA team. According to him, the 330 GEMA employees including the 265 partner employees who keep the facility going just the way an Acura Legend tie rod enables your Acura car wheels to turn deserve the applaud and the honor.

He pointed out, “At the same time, in the spirit of continuous improvement we recognize there are many opportunities in our processes. We understand that manufacturing excellence is a never-ending journey, not a final destination.”

GEMA is known as a producer of 1.8-, 2.0-, and 2.4-liter engines used for Chrysler Sebring sedan and convertible, Dodge Caliber, Avenger and other vehicles using what are considered as the “World Engines,” these units developed by the joint efforts of Chrysler, Hyundai Motor Company and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

According to shingoprize.org, the GEMA plant in Michigan, which has been operating for three years now, was also a recipient of the Top Plant Award given by the Plant Engineering Magazine in 2007 while in 2006, it was given the Environmental Achievement Award from the Environmental Management Association.

Fight The Cold

With this cold weather we are having, it is not surprising that there have been a lot of vehicles breaking down on the road. Thus, it is always important to check your car before driving out there. There are simple things you can do and some of them do not even include using auto parts such as thermostats.

AAA Chicago published their tips thanks to The Auto Channel. Since everyone driving around in this weather should be armed with information, here are those tips:

• Check your battery strength. Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other factor. At 0 degrees, a good battery has 35 percent less starting power.
• Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door and the frame.
• Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.
• To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto supply stores. If your lock freezes, heat your key with a pocket lighter but remember to wear gloves or hold the key with pliers. Or, fill a plastic jug with hot water. Hold it against the door panel or lock area. Do not throw hot water on the car. It may freeze and run the risk of cracking glass.
• If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. If you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the car, such as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee can heater", flashlight and reflective triangle.

I hope that these tips will help you keep safe this season.

Who’s To Define 2008 Global Auto Sales?

“How quickly does it improve and where does it go to, that remains to be seen.”

I agree with the words of General Motors’ North American Operations Head Troy Clarke. Indeed, who’s to define the fate of the auto industry for us?

Despite many auto analysts’ predictions that this year would mark the worst US sales in a decade, expecting a 17 million drop as compared to that of 2005, auto manufacturers remain hopeful.

Auto executives told the Associated Press about the possibility of federal stimulus package and lower interest rates to boost consumer confidence.

“We’re beginning to see, after six quarters of declines, the beginnings of some pent-up demand. You could make a case that the second half of the year could be significantly better,” Clarke said to AP.

Meanwhile, Ford Americas President expressed the same sentiment pointing out the importance of interest rates cut in stimulating sales.

“We do see opportunity in the second half,” he said.

Based from reports in Reuters, auto industry sales for the last six months of 2008 is forecasted to range from 16 million to 16.5 million vehicles. Would that be enough to hood research firm Global Insight’s calculation that vehicle sales will decrease by 15.5 million units this year?

Well, as Clarke puts it succinctly, that remains to be seen.

Best January for MNAO

Mazda North American Operations had a promising start this year with its record-breaking 10.2 sales increase for January 2008 - the first after 14 years.

Mazda had sold about 21, 212 vehicles in 2008’s first 31 days! Whoa! Whatta great start, isn’t it? These cars must have the same quality like Acura cars with great fender flares.

Mazda3, or Mazda Axela, a compact car, led the volume of record sales with 6, 579 units sold. On the other hand, Mazda6 or Mazda Atenza, a midsize car, got the best January sales since its launch last 2002 with 6,333 units sold up 27 percent than last year while the Mazda5 also known as the Mazda Premacy, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that was redesigned for 2008, garnered a 28.4 sales increase with 1,699 units sold. Also, Mazda CX-9, a full-size crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) described as a “modern station wagon” and was recently named North American truck of the Year, declared sales of 1,850 while CX-7, a mid-size crossover SUV, had 2,555 units sold.

Overwhelmed by the public’s demand for Mazda cars, MNAO President and Chief Executive Officer Jim O’Sullivan said, “After closing 2007 as the fastest-growing major car company in the US, we kicked off 2008 signaling our intention for another strong year.”

Mazda North American operation is the largest foreign component of Mazda Motor Corporation. It has two headquarters - one in Irvine, California and another in Flat Rock, Michigan.

According to bloomberg.com, Mazda’s 10 percent gain was the lone increase among Asian brands like Nissan and Hyundai whose combined market share declined by 0.2 to 41.9 percent.

Johnson Controls Open Li-ion Plant

The call for green vehicles is steadily increasing. Automakers are also responding to this call by manufacturing vehicles which use very little petroleum fuel or none at all. Toyota manufactured the Prius, a gas-electric hybrid which means that it is powered by a small internal combustion engine and sometimes supported by an electric motor which draws power from a nickel-metal hydride battery.

These batteries are being used because, well, it’s the only choice. But it will soon be phased out as lithium-ion batteries are starting to crop up. Li-ion batteries are favored by many over Ni-MH batteries as it weighs considerably less than the latter and stores more power. The only catch is that battery developers have not yet come up with a very good solution to make Li-ion batteries safe for automotive application.

That problem will soon be over though as Johnson Controls announced that they have opened the first Li-ion battery manufacturing facility in the world. That could only mean that the company has found a way to manufacture Li-ion batteries safe for vehicles. The Auto Channel reported that the said assembly facility will be manufacturing battery packs for "hybrid, plug-in, fuel cell and electric vehicles". I am sure that these battery packs will be as safe and reliable as Acura coil springs.

Mary Ann Wright, vice president and general manager for hybrid battery business for Johnson Controls, said: "This manufacturing facility demonstrates our ongoing commitment to hybrid technology. We are the first company to produce the batteries for the automotive industry and have recently announced a number of production and development contracts. We are confident that we will continue to be a global leader in the development and manufacture of advanced energy solutions for automotive batteries that make cars more energy efficient."

Cars Get More Horses Under The Hood

Who says the battle of the horsepower is over? You are wrong. Actually, the battle is just getter hotter as automakers give more horses under the hood.

The most remarkable, by far, is RENNTECH’s package for the Mercedes AMG models. Imagine, the car gets 695 hp. Awesome!

In the last few years, the auto industry has witnessed the parade of 500hp sedans. German automakers such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes have inundated the industry with uber fast cars. But, as I’ve said the battle isn’t over.

In a release, RENNTECH, one of the leading tuning firms we have today, announced a new "stage 3" tune for the 2008 65 series AMG models, which makes use of what RENNTECH calls "next-generation ECU software" to get 695hp and 890 lb-ft of torque from the AMG's twin-turbo V12.

"Power will always be important to many customers, especially torque," explained Hartmut Feyhl, RENNTECH's president and ex technical director of AMG North America. "Our cars have always been able to make considerable torque, and have been praised in magazines for their drivability. Still, we are constantly trying to improve our product."

"We now have two in-house engineers that are doing software full-time, and others that work with the software on a part-time or contract basis. We are always looking for improvements. The latest software takes advantage of the increased power of the new engine computers, and offers a number of small improvements that add up to a big 'overall' improvement," Feyhl explained.

Feyhl concluded: "It really is that 'next-generation' sort of product that is much more advanced than what we were capable of offering before. Compared to earlier versions, our new software gives customers more power and better drivability in a way that is more reliable, smoother power curve, and even improves emissions and gas mileage."

With approximately 900 lb-ft of torque who won’t be lured?

One thing is apparent - the performance and power of cars are getting more and more impressive. But automakers should not neglect safety and comfort. The maker of Volvo wheels, for one, should not take its safety milestones for granted.

More horses, more power. So cut the horses reins without compromising other auto aspects.

Car Shoppers Still Not Convinced With Diesel

A study done by Kelley Blue Book’s marketing research team was recently concluded and the results showed something quite interesting. A small number of new vehicle shoppers have disclosed that they still are not convinced with diesel being a good source of fuel with only 6% believing in diesel.

The study continued to disclose these facts:

• 40% of the respondents still go for hybrids
  
• 20% are for hydrogen fuel cells
  
• 17% would rather have flexible fuel systems

Consumers interested in hybrid vehicles still continue to bloom and this simply means that the need for BMW parts made specifically for hybrids would also go higher. Also, consumers who took part of the KBB study said that they still look at diesel engines as the dirty and noisy ones. It looks like no matter how good the new diesel engines are marketed, it would take quite a while before shoppers get the idea that these engines are no longer like the old ones.

Jack Nerad is the executive market analyst and the executive editorial director for KBB and on the study, he disclosed via The Auto Channel, “Many automakers are looking toward diesels as a very workable solution for the future, especially in light of the recently passed energy bill, but the results of this study should give them pause and make them realize they need to do a better, more thorough job of winning over the American consumer.”

More than Just Dessert

They are regarded as one of the keystones in the aquatic food chain being the major food of fish, suppliers of oxygen to the aquatic world, a source of fertilizer and also used as stabilizer in food, cosmetics and paints. Yeah, you got it right! That substance you dissolve in boiling water, mixed with sugar, milk and food color and molded into yummy gelatin dessert is the same material from which the latest biodiesel-fuel was derived. Algae, that is.

Just two days ago, the first algae-derived biodiesel fuel, produced by Solazyme Incorporated, a synthetic biology company that unleashes the power of aquatic microbes in providing clean and cheap solutions for biofuel, industrial chemical, health and wellness markets, has undergone its first road test and had successfully powered a factory-standard automobile. Maybe, one with an Acura Integra steering rack. Under usual driving conditions, the fuel can enable any vehicle to run even long distances. Clean, renewable, environmentally sustainable and scalable. Those are some of the best qualities of soladiesel biodiesel.

Using standard industrial fermentation equipment, Solazyme's soladiesel biodiesel was yielded from manufactured algal oil thus producing a biodegradable and nontoxic biofuel.

"Biodiesel from algae changes the landscape of renewable fuels," Solazyme Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Wolfson said. He added, "The concept of algal biofuel has been discussed for decades, and Solazyme's technology finally provides a scalable solution based on proven industrial processes. This fuel is just the first example of how algal oil will help the environment through new products that offer attractive economics and performance, as well as environmental benefits."

Solazyme has currently signed an agreement with Chevron Technology Ventures, a division of Chevron U.S.A Incorporated, a leading refiner and manufacturer of gasoline.

Harris Dillon, President and Chief Technology Officer of Solazyme, said that by demonstrating soladiesel as a new fuel alternative, the need for a cost-effective and sustainable near-term solution to the country's energy problem is being addressed.

Are You Wedded To Your Cars?

Picture this: The world stays as it is today but without - cars! Yes, you can have all other whims but cars. Are you gonna survive?

Traveling is just an ordinary thing these days. And without a car, where do you think you’ll be going? Quite obviously, it is nice to travel from one town to another. The views are breathtaking. The moments are priceless. But driving isn’t just for leisure. It’s actually for everyday travel. No wonder cars are deemed indispensable.

If you think you can’t live devoid of any auto pleasure, you’re just being true to yourself. If you think you are wedded to your car, some are addicted to it. Yeah, you are not alone.

A Statistics Canada report said Edmonton leads major Canadian cities in its residents' reliance on cars. And across Canada, auto dependence is escalating.

The report dubbed Dependence on Cars in Urban Neighbourhoods found that 77% of adult Edmontonians made all their trips by car on the day the survey was conducted. It topped the 8 major Canadian cities studied in 2005, the most recent year for which numbers are available, reported Canada.com. Other cities include:

- Calgary, 75%
- Quebec, 74%
- Winnipeg, 72%
- Ottawa-Gatineau, 71%
- Vancouver, 69%
- Toronto, 66%
- Montreal, 65%

StatsCan found the proportion of Canadians who travel everywhere by car surged from 68% in 1992 to 74% in 2005. The report added the proportion of Canadians who made at least a trip by bicycle or on foot appears to have declined. In 2005, 19% of adults walked or biked somewhere on the survey day, a decline from 26% in 1998.

"Human physiology has not changed for 50,000 years, but the way we live has changed dramatically," said Prof. John Spence, a researcher at the University of Alberta. "Our environments are increasingly promoting sedentary living."

And with people wedded to their cars plus the lack of exercise factor, it is predicted that percentage of obese individuals will rise. A person's chances of being obese go up 6% for every hour they spend in a car each day, according to a study by Prof. Lawrence Frank of the University of British Columbia.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Gerry Predy said the concerns are that long commutes to sprawling suburbs produce air pollution that can cause health problems. What's needed are neighbourhoods where you don't have to get into your car to go to the grocery store or the dry cleaner, Predy added.

So every once in a while, try to fight the temptation of hitting the starter of your car, take a brisk walk instead.

On the Right Track

I'm not sure if you'll agree with this: For humans, beauty and power define greatness but for cars it's in the quality and safety. Later, we'll analyze what humans and cars have in common. For now, let's focus on the latter.

Kia Motors is now gaining a good reputation for advocating those two points - quality and safety, authorities of the car industry revealed to Autochannel.com. This happened after the car manufacturer earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Pick Award for 2008. Kia vehicles were among the 34 awardees that received the institute’s recognition.

Good publicity for its latest special edition called the cee'd SR Spectacular that features front electric windows, USB port, 5 doors, CD and MP3 player with 6 speakers, 16" alloys, air-conditioning and 6 airbags earned various positive comments.

Autocar remarked, "This is the car that will shift Kia into the big league and challenge Europe's leading hatches." Stylish and sporty, this new Kia car was designed in Europe and was made in Slovakia.

According to What car?, "Kia's light, responsive steering makes it nimble a around town and feels assured when pushed on country roads."

The quality of a car steering has a great effect on the value of your ride. It's a good thing that Kia vehicles have an electronic stability control (ESC) designed to provide comfort and protection to drivers. Through sensors and a microcomputer, a vehicle's response to the driver's steering input is being monitored thus enabling it to apply the vehicle brakes as well as modulate engine power that keep the vehicle traveling in accordance with the steering wheel position's path.

Yet, even a Kia steering is not free from steering failure. If it does, an water pump may offer a solution. A car's water pump is responsible for fluid circulation as the engine runs.

As many as 10,000 fatal crashes can be avoided annually if all vehicles will be equipped with ESC, said Institute President Adrian Lund. With car manufacturers like Kia Motors committed to their consumers' safety, the car industry is on the right track towards greatness. By the way, I forgot to tell you, LATER for me means an hour OR a decade-worth of wait - it depends on my mood. Anyway, you may proceed with your own analogy.

Hummer Reigns Supreme

Last year, Hummer's website was named the best by J.D. Power and Associates. This year, after six months, the automaker's site once again achieved the highest ranking in the 2008 Manufacturer Web Site Evaluation Study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates.

Steve Witten, the executive director of marketing/media research at J.D. Power, outlined the things that made Hummer the winner saying: "HUMMER continues to set the standard with a Web site that satisfies shoppers through fast performance and streamlined navigation. A focus on a user-friendly site that delivers robust information to shoppers both quickly and easily has put HUMMER's site in the top spot three times in the past four waves of MWES."

According to The Auto Channel, the automaker's site received 867 points out of a 1,000 scale. Although the automaker retained its lead in the rankings, its index dropped by 2 points.

With more and more consumers looking to gain information regarding vehicles or purchase auto part like fuel injectors on the World Wide Web, automakers continued to improve on the design of their sites to provide information to consumers.

Witten said: "Traditional point-and-click Web site navigation is changing as a growing number of shoppers use search engines to link directly to automotive manufacturer model pages rather than the home pages."

Witten also pointed out Lincoln's site which made it to the top three this year to be one of the sites which have been improved to suit the needs of site visitors. "As a result, manufacturer vehicle model pages are beginning to contain more functionality than ever before. Lincoln's Web site, in particular, combines rich content on its model pages with fast, clear navigation," Witten added.

Ford Bids Goodbye To Gas Caps

If ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s the mantra we’re accustomed to follow. But are you supposed to fix it when it’s already broke? I don’t think so. Obviously, it might hurt you; might as well throw it away.



Gas caps aren’t broke and useless. But FoMoCo will soon be bidding goodbye to them. In 2006, the automaker promised to wipe caps off its lineup. Now, the promise has finally made good.



Yes, the Dearborn-based automaker has found a new ally in capless system, the technology it uses in NASCAR. Ford will be offering the technology on select models such as the 2009 F-150, which was displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.



Aside from the next-gen F-150, the capless system is also featured on the 2008 Explorer sport utility set to roll out into dealerships this fall. It will also be available on the 2009 Flex crossover and Lincoln MKS sedan.



“The capless refueling system already is available on the 2008 Ford Explorer sport utility vehicle, and it's coming to the 2009 Flex crossover and Lincoln MKS luxury sedan,” said Matt O'Leary, chief engineer on the pickup.



O'Leary said it's [capless system] something that they'll appreciate every time they fill up. "People just don't like the cap," he said. "Anyone who drives a vehicle hates that." Meanwhile, he expects auto rivals to eventually develop their own versions of the system which will be offered in their lineup.



Car Stuff has this to say about the innovative system: “The system, which came from Ford's NASCAR racing experience, first appeared on the 2003 Ford GT sports car. It has two small spring-loaded tabs that pull back a flap inside the fuel filler neck as the nozzle hits them. When the nozzle is pulled out, the flap closes.”



But not everyone is flabbergasted by the system. Aaron Bragman, auto analyst at Global Insight, called the system a nice "surprise and delight" feature, but said no one would buy a Ford because of it. "It's a nice addition, but by no means a decision-maker," he added.



Ford rival, General Motors, is adamant about the innovation. Mark LaNeve, GM North America vice president for vehicle sales, service and marketing, said: “The removal of the gas cap never shows up like a problem in any of our research.”



The Dearborn automaker said all of its vehicles will be capless. And for now, I don’t if it’s gonna be a hit. The innovative system may not be as remarkable as the discovery of seatbelts but I think it’s worth a try. Given the opportunity, I’m gonna hit the ignition switch to experience a capless drive.

Fight The Cold

Winter is the worst weather for a vehicle. It is hard to get a car started in very cold weather, the snow can affect the vision of the driver, and heavy snow fall can lead to a car being stuck on the road. These are just some problems that you can encounter during this season of frigid weather. To help you keep your car running, AAA Michigan published tips in The Auto Channel

According to them, you can do the following:

• Faulty batteries cause more car starting problems than any other factor. At 0 degrees, a battery has 35 percent less starting power than in summer. At minus 20, battery power drops 50 percent. If your battery is more than three years old, have a load test performed by a mechanic.

• Park your car in the garage. If you have no garage, put a tarp over the hood or park protected from prevailing winds. To keep doors from freezing shut, place a plastic trash bag between the door or window glass and the frame.

• Keep the fuel tank at least half-full to avoid fuel-line freeze-up.

• To avoid frozen door locks, buy a lubricant available in most auto supply stores.

• If you become snowbound, stay with your vehicle. It provides excellent shelter from the cold and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. If you can start your engine, run it only enough to keep warm. Make sure the exhaust pipe is snow-free. Keep emergency supplies in the car, such as a cell phone, boots, hats, gloves, blankets, a "coffee can heater," flashlight and reflective triangle.

These tips can save you a lot of trouble. Remember that a car cover is not enough to keep your car safe during winter.

Is It End Of The Line For Petrol Cars?

With the constant increase in gasoline prices and the rising demand for foreign oil, there is a great probability that petrol-powered cars will soon be facing extinction. Matter of fact, General Motors was earlier quoted as saying it believes global oil supply has peaked and a switch to electric cars is inevitable.

At the opening of this year’s North American International Auto Show, GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner said ethanol was an "important interim solution" to the world's demand for oil, until battery technology improved to give electric cars the same driving range as petrol-powered cars.

General Motors is absorbed in developing an electric car dubbed Chevy Volt. The plug-in hybrid is set to arrive in showrooms by 2010. But the arrival could be held in abeyance due to the delays in the development of the car’s battery technology.

Wagoner cited the United States Department of Energy statistics which show the world is consuming approximately 1000 barrels of oil every second of the day, and yet demand for oil may surge by 70% over the next 2 decades. Some experts believe the supply of oil peaked in 2006, according to Sydney Morning Herald.

According to a report, the remaining oil reserves are deeper below the Earth's surface. As such, they are more expensive to to mine and refine. "There is no doubt demand for oil is outpacing supply at a rapid pace, and has been for some time now," Wagoner said. "As a business necessity and an obligation to society we need to develop alternative sources of propulsion."

"So, are electrically driven vehicles the answer for the mid- and long-term? Yes, for sure. But… we need something else to significantly reduce our reliance on petroleum in the interim," he added.

The auto industry is slowly embracing the greener trend. It’s like having the necessary heater core replacement. And the effect will become more apparent in the near future. So far, petrol cars hold dominion over American roads.

An Innovative Small Car

The Tata Nano has been widely anticipated by Indian consumers as well as by the global community. Last year, Tata Motors announced that they are in the process of developing what would be the world's least expensive car. The auto industry has been abuzz with that proclamation. Even major automakers have failed or did not try to address the issue of producing small and cheap cars that will be within the reach of millions of families. But Tata, an Indian automaker, has beaten them to the punch.

Mr. Ratan Tata, the chairman of the Indian automaker, recently talked about the Nano and how it came to be. He said that his goal is to provide a car for common folks which will be safer than scooters.

He said that they first intend to use materials like plastics but it will not be practical as they are aiming for large volume production output. "Initially I had conceived a car made by engineering plastics and new materials, and using new technology like aerospace adhesives instead of welding," said Tata. "However, plastics didn't lend themselves to the volumes we wanted because of the curing time required. Volumes mean the world in this context: if we produce this car and if it is for the wider base of the pyramid, we can't settle for small numbers because then the purpose is defeated."

He described how they were able to cut costs on the Nano but at the same time, come up with a quality vehicle which can be compared to Acura headers in terms of reliability. "We did things like make similar handles and mechanisms for the left- and right-side doors; we developed our own small engine which could sit under the rear seat, enabling us to craft a smaller overall package; we looked at a new type of seats; and we worked at cutting costs everywhere," said Tata.

"We have put our instrument cluster in the middle, not in front of the driver. This means the same dashboard will work for a left-hand-drive vehicle. There are a lot of such innovations that are low-cost and future-oriented," he concluded.

Infiniti EX35 Earns Top IIHS Safety Award

All types of vehicles go along with a dependable safety system to protect drivers and passengers during rear, side and front crashes. Of course, safety comes first and that is closely followed by performance and convenience. That’s the way it should be. Our lives are more important than the driveshaft, fenders or whatsoever. Today, we are in so much delight because of the fact that several car manufacturers are giving lots of efforts in bringing the best safety technologies in premium vehicles. One of the best automobiles at present which best embodies car safety is the all-new 2008 Infiniti EX35!

According to the Auto Channel, the new luxury SUV, Infiniti EX35, received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Pick award for 2008. It’s the first-ever Infiniti to earn this award for everybody’s information. Winners for the Top Safety Pick meet the rate of advanced overall crash protection among the vehicles in their respective divisions. A vehicle is required to earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be outfitted with the electronic stability control.

"Criteria to win are tough because the award is intended to drive continued safety improvements such as top crash test ratings and rapid addition of electronic stability control, which is standard equipment on the EX35. Recognizing vehicles at the head of the class for safety helps consumers distinguish the best overall choices without having to sort through multiple test results," says Institute president Adrian Lund.

For past several months, the number of vehicles earning Top Safety Pick has been rapidly escalating. There were 13 cars, minivans, and SUVs which originally made it to the 2007 awards. The numbers of recipients were doubled to 34 at the start of the 2008 model year.

"The EX35 is a leader in its class for state-of-the-art safety," Lund says. "You don't know what kind of crash you're going to be in. That's why it's important to choose a vehicle that will protect you in all kinds of crashes. The Top Safety Pick designation is intended to help people find the safest choices."

And The Winners Are…

We know that Edmunds is one great place to research about car pricing, specs, features, and whatnot. They also test drive vehicles which means we can have an idea of how a vehicle drives even without having to try them out ourselves. But it is still important to test drive a vehicle you want to buy to see if it fits you to a tee. Anyway, as Edmunds is widely regarded as prime source of information about vehicles, we should take heed of what vehicles does Edmunds' editors wanted.

The Auto Channel reported that the Inside Line, Edmunds' online car magazine recently named the winners of the Edmunds' Inside Line Editors' Most Wanted Awards. Wow! That's quite a mouthful eh?

Anyway, Scott Oldham, editor in chief of Inside Line described their selection as: "The vehicles chosen were our favorites – the ones that we didn’t want to give back after testing them." With that description, you know you are getting the best deal for your money with the vehicles picked by Inside Line editors.

The 2008 GMC Sierra Denali is one of the winners. According to John Pearley Huffman, a Inside Line's contributing editor: "Think of the Sierra Denali as the perfect truck for the contractor who actually loves his job and happens to have hit the Lotto. And just bought a boat." That must be some serious pulling power huh? Surely, a burly radiator will fit in that Denali.

Another winner is the 2008 Mazda3. Josh Jacquot, Inside Line's Senior Road Test Editor praised the Mazda3 saying: "Bottom line, the Mazda3 is Edmunds’ Inside Line Editors Most Wanted Award winner because it offers a driving experience for beyond expectations and, more importantly, beyond its price tag." There you are guys, the best deal for your money.

Other winners are the 2008 Porsche 911 GT3, 2008 Honda Odyssey, and the 2008 Audi R8 adjudged as an Instant Classic.

The Hyundai Genesis Premium Sports Sedan At The 2008 NAIAS

The 2008 NAIAS is definitely the hottest phenomenon to start the brand new year. Radiators will totally burst with the presentation of the newest concept cars courtesy of the giant automakers around the globe. And among these renowned groups is Hyundai.

The Genesis Concept was once a grand vision from Hyundai, but now, it’s a dream come true… finally! The luxury sedan’s initial design sketch was superb - almost perfect that is. The unveiling of Hyundai’s masterpiece is one of the most awaited events in the upcoming 2008 North American International Auto Show. Hyundai presents the Genesis premium sports sedan!

According to my source, the newest Genesis rear-wheel-drive sports sedan is scheduled to have its first public appearance on January 13, 2007. This vehicle is equipped with features and capabilities similar to luxury sedans with a $60,000 tag. The Genesis premium sport sedan will be offered at an initial price below $30,000 when it hits dealership this summer.

"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS. Genesis provides a potent combination of performance, luxury, and value. We think it has the opportunity to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments," says John Krafcik, the vice president for product development and strategic planning at Hyundai Motor America.

WSJ/NBC Poll Cites Gas Prices As No. 1 Economic Concern

Look around – what do you think is our main economic concern these days?

The latest survey from Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll cites gasoline prices as the economic woe that affects most Americans, according to the Auto Channel. As such, the Car Care Council warns people that putting off vehicle care and maintenance can make matters worse.

"The best way to fight higher costs at the gas pump is to keep your vehicle running properly. You can't control the price of gas, but you can control how much gas you burn by proper maintenance and how you drive," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Performing simple and inexpensive maintenance can save as much as $1200 a year in gas cost."

The Car Care Council offers these gas-savings maintenance and driving tips to make motorists save big money at the pump:

• Check your vehicle gas cap. About 17% of the vehicles on the roads have gas caps that are either damaged, loose or are missing altogether, causing 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize every year.
• When tires aren't inflated properly, it's like driving with the parking brake on, and can cost a mile or two per gallon.
• A dirty spark plug causes misfiring, which wastes fuel. Spark plugs need to be replaced regularly.
• Replacing a clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10%, saving about 15 cents on a gallon.
• Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 22% on the highway and five percent on city streets, which results in seven to 49 cents per gallon.
• Sitting idle gets zero miles per gallon. Letting the vehicle warm up for one to two minutes is sufficient.
• Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each mph driven over 60 results in an additional 10 cents per gallon. To maintain a constant speed on the highway, cruise control is recommended.

Yes, it is essential to take care of your car’s body parts. But maintenance should go hand in hand with safety driving.

To learn more about "Be Car Care Aware" campaign, visit http://www.carcare.org/.