For reference, just about any mass produced four wheel car can easily negotiate a lane change maneuver at 45mph.Watched by a large group, including many note-taking and video-taping team members, the three-wheeled Aptera car struggled to find a clean run. More than two dozen attempts were made, with the car routinely sliding enough to topple several cones. In watching, it seemed natural to question how difficult this test is to pass. However, all current production vehicles, from small cars to large trucks, can successfully negotiate this test. We expect the Auto X Prize finalists to do the same.
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Kamis, 29 April 2010
Aptera Flounders On Lane Change
This is bad news. If the Aptera, a supposedly well developed and carefully engineered vehicle, can't negotiate a Consumers Union lane change at a measly 45mph, they are in big trouble. It probably has a lot to do with the tricycle design -- the rear end is likely to want to come around without strong ESC intervention because it has so much less grip than the front. From CU's blog:
Automotive Companies Doing Business In Iran
The New York Times recently published a list of international companies who are doing business in Iran. Here are the automotive companies on the list which have joint ventures or licensing agreements with Iranian companies:
- Daimler -- Active
- Fiat -- Active
- Kia -- Active
- Mazda -- Active
- Suzuki-- Active
Any American who cares about our national security, and particularly anyone who cares about the state of Israel should think carefully before supporting any of these companies.
Mazda is most upsetting to me, because I have owned Mazda vehicles in the past, without knowing that they have a joint production agreement with Bahman of Iran. Bahman is, according to a Rand report, partly owned by the Iranian government.
I will discourage anyone I know from purchasing these brands until they stop doing business on the ground in Iran.
Rabu, 28 April 2010
Top Luxury Cars | 2010 Lotus Evora - Road Test
Rome or Bust: We flog the new Lotus Evora from England to Rome and back.
For as long as most folks at Lotus Cars in Hethel, England, can remember, most everyone has eaten lunch in the office, worked eight-and-a-half hours Monday through Thursday, and then taken off the rest of the day at noon on Friday.
So a weekend at Lotus works out to two-and-a-half days. In the late ’80s, the company’s CEO, Michael Kimberley, suggested to his engineers a new approach for putting miles on Elan prototypes: Leave Hethel at noon and drive to Rome and back, a 2500-mile jaunt. Just be back in your cubicle on Monday morning with a picture of the car at the Colosseum.
Even Lotus’s devoted, monk-like engineers weren’t thrilled with the idea of living in an Elan for two days. The trips were not without setbacks: Once an Elan prototype’s exhaust snapped in half near Lyon, in France. The Lotus suffered the indignity of limping into a Renault repair garage, exhaust dragging and engine blaring. Then the Hethel crew, which spoke no French, had to mime the problem to the perplexed French repairman. Hours later, after an exchange of francs and Lotus-branded pens and key chains, they were back on the road, the exhaust system welded back together.
A new Lotus model is rare—about as rare as using the words “practical, refined, reliable, and comfortable” to describe the car without the prefixes “im” and “un” in place. For more than 50 years, Lotus’s cars have pushed intoxicating levels of performance and handling, but a general lack of practicality, refinement, reliability, and comfort often left owners feeling exhausted and hung over.
The new Evora held the promise of being different, modern. The idea was to maintain the rabid Lotus-grade handling and performance but throw in a livable interior, a back seat, more room, and the sort of civility that might appeal to Porsche drivers. So how, we wondered, would this new Lotus fare at continually high speeds all the way to Rome and back? Could a Lotus actually be comfortable over 2500 miles? Or would it revert to its old tricks—shedding parts, splitting exhausts, or worse, quitting entirely and forcing us to hitchhike home? We figured we should bring along some Lotus pens just in case.
After a red-eye from Detroit to London and a two-and-a-half-hour, 136-mile trip by car northeast to rural Hethel in Norfolk, I arrive at the gates of the former U.S. Air Force base that frugal Lotus founder Colin Chapman, now long departed, turned into company headquarters in 1966.
And there’s my Evora, sitting silently in a steady rain. This new model is a stylistic departure from the Elise and the Exige—it’s more maturely penned, looking very unlike a wheeled water bug. Like the Elise and the Exige, the Evora sits low, the front of the car barely at shin height, the tops of the front fenders about knee-high.
Getting in doesn’t require the Cirque du Soleil training that the Elise and the Exige do, but slipping between the wide side sills and the steering wheel remains more challenging than getting into any Porsche. There are still some dollar-store touches inside: cheap-looking window switches, the Ford-sourced turn-signal and wiper stalks. But overall, the interior has a style and quality that wouldn’t look out of place in an Audi.
Firm and snug Recaro seats and a tilting and telescoping wheel adjust easily for a comfortable driving position. Looking out, the huge windshield seems to end at your feet; the view ahead is panoramic, interrupted only by the tops of the front fenders, which serve as reference points. When seated on the wrong side of a car and driving on the wrong side of the road—all the while circling London’s Heathrow Airport waiting for a photographer—it’s always useful to know where the front of the car is.
Lensman Tom Salt arrives, and I’m stunned by the amount of gear he has brought along. Kim Kardashian probably packs lighter. The Evora’s six-cubic-foot trunk verges on useless, so we just cram our gear into the 23-cubic-foot back seat. Lotus claims the rear seat is usable by a fifth-percentile female, which basically means that if you’re over five feet tall, riding back there is only slightly better than being waterboarded.
We head into London, just in time for the stress of rush hour. We’re looking for backdrops to prove we’ve been here, so we aim toward Big Ben. That taken care of, we drive southeast out of London, then crawl in traffic for a few hours, and—finally—we sweep onto the M20, which looks like freeways do everywhere else. Fifty uneventful miles later, we tool into Folkestone and the entrance to the great tunnel built under the English Channel. Beyond it is France.
So a weekend at Lotus works out to two-and-a-half days. In the late ’80s, the company’s CEO, Michael Kimberley, suggested to his engineers a new approach for putting miles on Elan prototypes: Leave Hethel at noon and drive to Rome and back, a 2500-mile jaunt. Just be back in your cubicle on Monday morning with a picture of the car at the Colosseum.
Even Lotus’s devoted, monk-like engineers weren’t thrilled with the idea of living in an Elan for two days. The trips were not without setbacks: Once an Elan prototype’s exhaust snapped in half near Lyon, in France. The Lotus suffered the indignity of limping into a Renault repair garage, exhaust dragging and engine blaring. Then the Hethel crew, which spoke no French, had to mime the problem to the perplexed French repairman. Hours later, after an exchange of francs and Lotus-branded pens and key chains, they were back on the road, the exhaust system welded back together.
A new Lotus model is rare—about as rare as using the words “practical, refined, reliable, and comfortable” to describe the car without the prefixes “im” and “un” in place. For more than 50 years, Lotus’s cars have pushed intoxicating levels of performance and handling, but a general lack of practicality, refinement, reliability, and comfort often left owners feeling exhausted and hung over.
The new Evora held the promise of being different, modern. The idea was to maintain the rabid Lotus-grade handling and performance but throw in a livable interior, a back seat, more room, and the sort of civility that might appeal to Porsche drivers. So how, we wondered, would this new Lotus fare at continually high speeds all the way to Rome and back? Could a Lotus actually be comfortable over 2500 miles? Or would it revert to its old tricks—shedding parts, splitting exhausts, or worse, quitting entirely and forcing us to hitchhike home? We figured we should bring along some Lotus pens just in case.
After a red-eye from Detroit to London and a two-and-a-half-hour, 136-mile trip by car northeast to rural Hethel in Norfolk, I arrive at the gates of the former U.S. Air Force base that frugal Lotus founder Colin Chapman, now long departed, turned into company headquarters in 1966.
And there’s my Evora, sitting silently in a steady rain. This new model is a stylistic departure from the Elise and the Exige—it’s more maturely penned, looking very unlike a wheeled water bug. Like the Elise and the Exige, the Evora sits low, the front of the car barely at shin height, the tops of the front fenders about knee-high.
Getting in doesn’t require the Cirque du Soleil training that the Elise and the Exige do, but slipping between the wide side sills and the steering wheel remains more challenging than getting into any Porsche. There are still some dollar-store touches inside: cheap-looking window switches, the Ford-sourced turn-signal and wiper stalks. But overall, the interior has a style and quality that wouldn’t look out of place in an Audi.
Firm and snug Recaro seats and a tilting and telescoping wheel adjust easily for a comfortable driving position. Looking out, the huge windshield seems to end at your feet; the view ahead is panoramic, interrupted only by the tops of the front fenders, which serve as reference points. When seated on the wrong side of a car and driving on the wrong side of the road—all the while circling London’s Heathrow Airport waiting for a photographer—it’s always useful to know where the front of the car is.
Lensman Tom Salt arrives, and I’m stunned by the amount of gear he has brought along. Kim Kardashian probably packs lighter. The Evora’s six-cubic-foot trunk verges on useless, so we just cram our gear into the 23-cubic-foot back seat. Lotus claims the rear seat is usable by a fifth-percentile female, which basically means that if you’re over five feet tall, riding back there is only slightly better than being waterboarded.
We head into London, just in time for the stress of rush hour. We’re looking for backdrops to prove we’ve been here, so we aim toward Big Ben. That taken care of, we drive southeast out of London, then crawl in traffic for a few hours, and—finally—we sweep onto the M20, which looks like freeways do everywhere else. Fifty uneventful miles later, we tool into Folkestone and the entrance to the great tunnel built under the English Channel. Beyond it is France.
Top Luxury Cars | 2010 Lexus GS Hybrid
Lexus GS Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Lexus GS Hybrid ranks 3 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 57 published reviews and test drives of the Lexus GS Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Lexus calls the GS 450h a “no compromises hybrid,” and it’s easy to understand why. It offers the power of a V8 with the fuel-efficiency of a V6, and the kind of opulent cabin that Lexus is known for. It is a tight fit for taller drivers, however, and still trails the best sport sedans in handling.
When most car shoppers think of hybrids, they picture oddly-shaped, smaller hatchbacks with lackluster performance but great fuel economy. That’s Toyota’s fault – the Prius set the mold. The luxury division of Toyota, however, has broken that same mold with several quick, luxurious hybrids that don’t trade away much of anything in pursuit of fuel-efficiency. The Lexus GS 450h, like the larger LS600h, is among the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, but it doesn’t offer the kind of sky-high fuel economy numbers you’ll see on the window sticker of a Prius or a Lexus HS250h.
Instead, the GS Hybrid offers performance that competes with luxury sport sedans, a sumptuous passenger cabin, stylish bodywork and excellent safety ratings.
It can’t hang with the most performance-focused large luxury cars on a winding road. Reviewers say the steering of the GS Hybrid is too light, leaving the driver detached from road feel. It also won’t suit taller owners.
Lexus calls the GS 450h a “no compromises hybrid,” and it’s easy to understand why. It offers the power of a V8 with the fuel-efficiency of a V6, and the kind of opulent cabin that Lexus is known for. It is a tight fit for taller drivers, however, and still trails the best sport sedans in handling.
When most car shoppers think of hybrids, they picture oddly-shaped, smaller hatchbacks with lackluster performance but great fuel economy. That’s Toyota’s fault – the Prius set the mold. The luxury division of Toyota, however, has broken that same mold with several quick, luxurious hybrids that don’t trade away much of anything in pursuit of fuel-efficiency. The Lexus GS 450h, like the larger LS600h, is among the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, but it doesn’t offer the kind of sky-high fuel economy numbers you’ll see on the window sticker of a Prius or a Lexus HS250h.
Instead, the GS Hybrid offers performance that competes with luxury sport sedans, a sumptuous passenger cabin, stylish bodywork and excellent safety ratings.
It can’t hang with the most performance-focused large luxury cars on a winding road. Reviewers say the steering of the GS Hybrid is too light, leaving the driver detached from road feel. It also won’t suit taller owners.
Other Cars to Consider
Several reviewers have noted that the GS line of cars, including this hybrid version, aren't comfortable for drivers much over six feet tall. Those drivers might want to test drive an Infiniti M or Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan instead. Headroom is tight at all four seating positions in the GS hybrid. And while neither of those cars is available in a gas-electric version this year, both automakers have hybrid editions in the pipeline, which may reach showrooms as early as the 2011 model year.
Lexus GS Hybrid: The Details
The GS 450 Hybrid comes in only one trim level. Its equipment list is close to comprehensive, but a handful of upgrades are offered. For 2010, the GS hybrid gets a slightly modified grille, standard 18-inch wheels and a new power rear sunshade.
Top Luxury Cars | 2010 Acura RL
Acura RL - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Acura RL ranks 3 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 8 published reviews and test drives of the Acura RL, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2010 Acura RL doesn't carry the same cachet as some more well-known luxury cars, but it's an excellent choice for many buyers. With outstanding cabin electronics, bulletproof Honda reliability and resale value, and a price that doesn't climb high when you start adding options, it's a great value. But some reviewers say it is underpowered for its price, and short on space for its size.
While most large luxury cars offer just slightly different takes on the same high-power formula, the Acura RL is a little different. There is no supercharged V8 offered here. That's not to say the RL isn't sporty - its unique SH-AWD system (that's "Super Handling - All Wheel Drive") means it holds a precise line in a hard corner - but the RL is more about agility than speed, and more about high-tech digital luxury than old world leather-and-wood elegance.
The RL's 3.7-liter V6 is nothing you'd find in a more affordable car. It makes a V8-like 300 horsepower. But it can be a beat slower than many V8-powered cars, and reviewers are disappointed with the car's 16/22 mpg EPA rating -- the RL actually ranks in the bottom half of its class for fuel economy even though uses two fewer cylinders than most of its rivals. That SH-AWD system, however, makes it fun to drive. The system actually helps to steer the car, varying the speed of each wheel independently to point the car into turns while maintaining excellent grip. It gives the car an entertaining personality on a winding road.
Other Cars to Consider
But those truly looking for an athletic large sedan will want to try out the superbly balanced BMW 5-Series, or perhaps the muscular Jaguar XF.
Those cars, however, might not be the RL's most direct rivals. If the RL interests you, there's another car you should consider before laying money down. The RL's smaller sibling, the Acura TL, is worth a look. It isn't much smaller, and the two cars share so many mechanical components that buyers might find the TL essentially offers the RL experience at a discounted price.
Acura RL: The Details
The RL is offered in just one trim level for 2010, an available Technology Package adds a voice-controlled navigation system with traffic and weather updates that, some reviewers say, is the best one found anywhere. A Technology Package with Collision Mitigating Braking System increases the safety quotient.
The 2010 Acura RL doesn't carry the same cachet as some more well-known luxury cars, but it's an excellent choice for many buyers. With outstanding cabin electronics, bulletproof Honda reliability and resale value, and a price that doesn't climb high when you start adding options, it's a great value. But some reviewers say it is underpowered for its price, and short on space for its size.
While most large luxury cars offer just slightly different takes on the same high-power formula, the Acura RL is a little different. There is no supercharged V8 offered here. That's not to say the RL isn't sporty - its unique SH-AWD system (that's "Super Handling - All Wheel Drive") means it holds a precise line in a hard corner - but the RL is more about agility than speed, and more about high-tech digital luxury than old world leather-and-wood elegance.
The RL's 3.7-liter V6 is nothing you'd find in a more affordable car. It makes a V8-like 300 horsepower. But it can be a beat slower than many V8-powered cars, and reviewers are disappointed with the car's 16/22 mpg EPA rating -- the RL actually ranks in the bottom half of its class for fuel economy even though uses two fewer cylinders than most of its rivals. That SH-AWD system, however, makes it fun to drive. The system actually helps to steer the car, varying the speed of each wheel independently to point the car into turns while maintaining excellent grip. It gives the car an entertaining personality on a winding road.
Other Cars to Consider
But those truly looking for an athletic large sedan will want to try out the superbly balanced BMW 5-Series, or perhaps the muscular Jaguar XF.
Those cars, however, might not be the RL's most direct rivals. If the RL interests you, there's another car you should consider before laying money down. The RL's smaller sibling, the Acura TL, is worth a look. It isn't much smaller, and the two cars share so many mechanical components that buyers might find the TL essentially offers the RL experience at a discounted price.
Acura RL: The Details
The RL is offered in just one trim level for 2010, an available Technology Package adds a voice-controlled navigation system with traffic and weather updates that, some reviewers say, is the best one found anywhere. A Technology Package with Collision Mitigating Braking System increases the safety quotient.
Top Luxury Cars | 2010 Infiniti M
Infiniti M - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Infiniti M ranks 2 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 55 published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti M, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Sold as the V6-powered M35 and the V8-powered M45, Infiniti’s top-of-the-line sedan is a high-performance machine. It doesn’t sell as well as some better-known rivals, but some in the automotive press aren’t sure why. It’s a well-rounded sport sedan, though it may ride too firm for some.
Car and Driver sums up the typical opinion of the automotive press perfectly when it says, “Infiniti's M sedans offer excellent value, space, luxury, and performance--it's too bad more folks don't notice."
The M35 and M45 sedan are not often mentioned in the same breath as some of the better-known large luxury sport sedans. But many reviewers think they should be. Infiniti’s flagship sedan offers a stylish cabin with an appealing modern design theme and exceptionally comfortable seats, and the ability to corner with some of the best sport sedans on the market. It can’t match the raw engine power of a Jaguar XF, but reviewers say its handling balance rivals anything else in the class – which may be more important than horsepower to those looking to have some fun on a routine drive.
Other Cars to Consider
The 2010 Infiniti M's sporty character might be too much for some. Those looking for a comfortable commuter might be better suited by a Lexus GS or Acura RL. The M doesn’t insulate its driver from the road like those cars – it engages the driver in the drive, much like the BMW. M sedans equipped with the Sport package are particularly stiff – stiff enough to turn off some reviewers who like the sporty nature of the standard car.
Those considering the M precisely because of its sporty nature might want to test drive the BMW 5-Series, the large-sedan cornering champion, or the powerful XF before buying.
Infiniti M: The Details
The M comes as either the M35, with a six-cylinder engine or the M45, with an eight-cylinder engine. Both models are available in a base rear-wheel drive, a Sport edition with a firmer, sport-tuned suspension and a revised front fascia, and an X edition with all-wheel drive.
The M was first offered in the 2005 model year, and has changed little since then. It is due for a complete redesign for the 2011 model year, so those who can afford to wait might find a better deal on the 2010 M once the 2011 has begun rolling into dealerships.
Sold as the V6-powered M35 and the V8-powered M45, Infiniti’s top-of-the-line sedan is a high-performance machine. It doesn’t sell as well as some better-known rivals, but some in the automotive press aren’t sure why. It’s a well-rounded sport sedan, though it may ride too firm for some.
Car and Driver sums up the typical opinion of the automotive press perfectly when it says, “Infiniti's M sedans offer excellent value, space, luxury, and performance--it's too bad more folks don't notice."
The M35 and M45 sedan are not often mentioned in the same breath as some of the better-known large luxury sport sedans. But many reviewers think they should be. Infiniti’s flagship sedan offers a stylish cabin with an appealing modern design theme and exceptionally comfortable seats, and the ability to corner with some of the best sport sedans on the market. It can’t match the raw engine power of a Jaguar XF, but reviewers say its handling balance rivals anything else in the class – which may be more important than horsepower to those looking to have some fun on a routine drive.
Other Cars to Consider
The 2010 Infiniti M's sporty character might be too much for some. Those looking for a comfortable commuter might be better suited by a Lexus GS or Acura RL. The M doesn’t insulate its driver from the road like those cars – it engages the driver in the drive, much like the BMW. M sedans equipped with the Sport package are particularly stiff – stiff enough to turn off some reviewers who like the sporty nature of the standard car.
Those considering the M precisely because of its sporty nature might want to test drive the BMW 5-Series, the large-sedan cornering champion, or the powerful XF before buying.
Infiniti M: The Details
The M comes as either the M35, with a six-cylinder engine or the M45, with an eight-cylinder engine. Both models are available in a base rear-wheel drive, a Sport edition with a firmer, sport-tuned suspension and a revised front fascia, and an X edition with all-wheel drive.
The M was first offered in the 2005 model year, and has changed little since then. It is due for a complete redesign for the 2011 model year, so those who can afford to wait might find a better deal on the 2010 M once the 2011 has begun rolling into dealerships.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class - What the Auto Press Says
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 The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class ranks 1 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 52 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class held the top spot in our Luxury Large Car rankings for most of 2008 and 2009, but Mercedes has improved it anyway. Entirely redesigned for 2010, the new E-Class has a new sense of style inside and out. It features more athletic road manners than the car it replaces and, incredibly, a lower price. The new E-Class is a must-see for every luxury large car shopper. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class doesn’t make any sense. It’s a better car than the 2009 E-Class. It has an eye-catching look that’s best seen in person, an opulent interior with an old-world panache that other luxury cars can’t match, a newfound sporty character and a list of safety equipment that boggles the mind. Yet it’s cheaper than the car it replaces. Mercedes improved the E-Class drastically for 2010, then cut its price. A seasoned auto critic with the New York Times writes, “I can’t recall a price cut of this magnitude -- nearly 9 percent -- on any recent car, let alone one that’s been fully redesigned.” The new car is less-expensive than the old one, but it isn’t cheaply made. The Times continues, “Not only is there no evidence of cost-cutting, but in terms of interior luxury, the E-Class actually moves closer to the flagship S-Class sedan.” Other Cars to Consider Still, the Benz won’t be the perfect car for every luxury large car shopper. The BMW 5-Series and Audi A6 are better handlers -- but the E-Class has narrowed the gap, and is now nearly as poised as those cars. But there may not be a large sedan with a better balance of luxury, style and performance than this one. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan: The Details Safety-conscious shoppers, in particular, should explore the E-Class. It offers all of the typical safety equipment luxury buyers are accustomed to, but also has a new bag of tricks that no competitor can match, including an Attention Assist system designed to help drowsy drivers stay alert, and a system that automatically dims the highbeam headlights to avoid blinding oncoming cars. It’s enough to make the Volvo S80 duck in shame. The E-Class is also offered in a coupe body style, but shoppers shouldn’t consider the two interchangeable. The E coupe has the same engine and transmission choices as this car, but it’s built on the C-Class chassis, which gives it very different handling dynamics and interior proportions. The E-Class sedan is available as a V6-powered E350, which reviewers say is an adequate performer but lacks the punch of similar models from BMW and Audi, or a V8-powered E550, which should easily satisfy speedsters. A 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is optional on both. A hybrid model and a diesel-powered edition are expected to join the E-class stable for the 2011 model year, but neither has yet been made available to the press. The high-performance E63 AMG is covered in a separate review. |
Minggu, 25 April 2010
Lt. Steve Zilberman RIP
I saw this story and was moved. Lt. Zilberman, a US Navy Hawkeye pilot lost an engine while returning from a mission. He fought the controls long enough to let his three crewmates bail out, but did not survive his water landing. He leaves behind a young wife and two young children.
Link
Also, there is a fund you can donate to for his kid's college education. See the VAW/VRC Memorial Scholarship Fund here.
Kamis, 22 April 2010
Happy Earth Day, Obama!
For Earth Day, President Obama and Vice President Biden are flying, with their respective entourages, to New York. In separate planes (as required by security).
While the heads of state travel, the other airplanes will have to circle overhead, and planes on the ground will have to idle, again for security reasons.
So, for Earth Day, Obama is going to burn literally tons of aviation fuel. Couldn't he have led by example, and appeared by satellite link, or something?
Rant: Gun Safety
I just read a very sad story about a 4 year old boy who accidentally killed himself by playing with a loaded gun that his parents left in their bedroom.
The parents should be prosecuted. They should lose their gun ownership rights, permanently.
I am a solid 2nd supporter and a life member of the NRA. I don't believe in waiting periods, assault weapons bans, ammunition serial numbers, "smart guns", or any of it. But I do believe in responsibility. All gun owners are responsible for the safe storage of their weapons. Period.
There are inexpensive gun locks and quick-access boxes which would allow you to get your piece out quickly if you need to. I myself have a fantastic pistol safe with a Simplex pushbutton combination lock. I can get my .45 out and ready to shoot in about 10 seconds.
There is no excuse, ever, for leaving a loaded gun around where a little kid could find it and hurt themselves.
Epic Car Forum Breakup
This is one of the saddest, funniest, craziest things I have ever read. Read it for yourself. You get the details slowly, but by the end, you see the whole picture: illegal immigrant live-in boyfriend sperm donor who works 3 nights a week spends all his money on his car and brags on the Acura forum. Baby mama finds his account open, and dumps him right on the forum.
Sabtu, 17 April 2010
1967 Ford Mustang GT 500
1985 ford mustang gt for sale
1 18 ford shelby mustang gt 500 police car
93 ford mustang gt
1 18 ford shelby mustang gt 500 police car
93 ford mustang gt
1967 Ford Mustang GT 500
1985 ford mustang gt for sale
1 18 ford shelby mustang gt 500 police car
93 ford mustang gt
1 18 ford shelby mustang gt 500 police car
93 ford mustang gt
AUDI AG WORLDWIDE RELEASE: Luxury in grand style: The new Audi A8 L
he new A8 is a concentrated high-tech package that confirms Audi claim to technical leadership ? ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’. And now the brand is introducing the top version of its flagship model. The A8 L W12 quattro, with a long wheelbase and a twelve-cylinder engine, sets new standards of luxury, dynamism and efficiency in the top automobile manufacturing league. The Audi A8 L is being launched with a twelve-cylinder engine, but by the end of the year will be available with all the engines currently offered for the A8.
What’s fascinating about the A8 L is its supremely powerful presence; its design is clearly derived from the brand’s genes and yet has undergone further refinement. The long wheelbase does not disturb its taut outlines, which remain as athletic as they are elegant.
AUDI AG WORLDWIDE RELEASE: Luxury in grand style: The new Audi A8 L
he new A8 is a concentrated high-tech package that confirms Audi claim to technical leadership ? ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’. And now the brand is introducing the top version of its flagship model. The A8 L W12 quattro, with a long wheelbase and a twelve-cylinder engine, sets new standards of luxury, dynamism and efficiency in the top automobile manufacturing league. The Audi A8 L is being launched with a twelve-cylinder engine, but by the end of the year will be available with all the engines currently offered for the A8.
What’s fascinating about the A8 L is its supremely powerful presence; its design is clearly derived from the brand’s genes and yet has undergone further refinement. The long wheelbase does not disturb its taut outlines, which remain as athletic as they are elegant.
Jumat, 16 April 2010
Porsche Panamera Black Edition by Techart
The Porsche specialists from TECHART have unveiled today the TECHART Porsche Panamera Black Edition. a new individualization program for the Porsche Panamera. The black matt exterior is complemented by an Aerodynamic Kit I, multifunctional daytime running lights system in black and the exhaust system.
Considering that in many cultures the colour black symbolizes individuality, autonomy and experience the Techart Porsche Panamera Black Edition received a completely matt black exterior along with a set of 22 inch TECHART Formula II light alloys that also painted black.
In the terms of interior ambience, the brand’s designers have restyled the Panamera Turbo’s cabin with black top-end leather and alcantara as well as hand-sewed decorative stitching and leather piping in flamenco red. Moreover, all interior components like trims, door entry guards, cup holder or air vents present themselves in a premium matt black painted design.
Techart also prepared the Carbon Kit matt black, which includes dashboard trims, door panel trims and center console at front and rear. And to further demonstrate they thought of every detail, Techart also offers custom floor mats in black.
Press Release
TECHART Black Edition
Black - the most dominant of all colors. In various cultures of the world, it symbolizes characteristics such as individuality, independence and experience - concepts that characterize TECHART and its customers. Reason enough to put the combined experience and individuality from TECHART to work in order to give the Panamera a unique appearance - the TECHART Black Edition.
The Panamera captivates with its exterior kept entirely in matt black. From the TECHART Aerodynamic Kit I to the multifunctional TECHART daytime running light system in black and the TECHART exhaust system, all exterior components across the board merge equally seamlessly into the matt black design. Just the red TECHART logotype gleaming through the spokes of the sporty TECHART 22-inch Formula II light alloy wheels provides a point of contrast in the deep black and powerful appearance of the four-seater.
In the vehicle interior, the Black Edition also does credit to its name. Materials of the highest quality reflect the individual design of the exterior also in the internal space of the Panamera. Finest black leather combined with alcantara as well as hand-sewed decorative stitching and leather piping in flamenco red let the driver feel the impressive TECHART character. In addition, all interior components like trims, door entry guards, cup holder or air vents present themselves in a premium matt black painted design. Quality and precision in every detail - typical TECHART.
Ford MyTouch Adds Eco-Route Feature to Save Fuel [Video]
Ford unwrapped its new MyFord Touch infotainment system at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in January, The fuel-efficiency of an engine is one way to save gas, but how that engine is used greatly effects fuel economy too.
The MyFord system also offers up a bar chart next to the fuel display that shows real-time fuel economy performance along with mpg averages for the past 5, 10, and 30 minutes. Impressive stuff, but Ford has some competition. Garmin's similarly titled ecoRoute software offers many of the same options--it maps the most fuel efficient routes, tracks fuel usage over time, and features a report that keeps track of mileage and fuel use on a per-trip basis.
The new system also provides sophisticated data feedback on the car's fuel consumption that can "coach" drivers to maximize efficiency by pointing them towards the most economical driving techniques.
MyFord Touch will launch on the 2011 Ford Edge this summer, and then in 2012 on the Ford Focus. MyLincoln Touch will be standard on new Lincoln vehicles, starting with the 2011 Lincoln MKX.
Press Release
NEW MYFORD TOUCH ‘COACHES' DRIVERS TO IMPROVE FUEL EFFICIENCY;
NAVIGATION ADDS ECO-ROUTE FEATURE
NAVIGATION ADDS ECO-ROUTE FEATURE
- New MyFord TouchTM driver connect technology provides an
array of real-time feedback on fuel efficiency performance that helps
coach drivers to optimize their miles per gallon
- MyFord Touch map-based navigation offers an Eco-Route option, which
instantly calculates the most fuel-efficient route for the driver. Ford
testing shows Eco-Route can help achieve fuel economy gains of up to 15
percent
- MyFord Touch launches this summer on the 2011 Ford Edge and will be
available globally on the 2012 Ford Focus. MyLincoln Touch will be
standard equipment on new Lincoln vehicles beginning with the 2011
Lincoln MKX
DEARBORN, Mich., April 15, 2010 - When it comes to achieving the best
possible fuel mileage the way you drive can be nearly as important as the
vehicle you drive.
Ford's advanced new in-vehicle system - MyFord TouchTM -
offers an array of real-time information on fuel economy performance that
can coach drivers to get more miles to the gallon and save on fuel costs. In
addition, MyFord Touch's map-based navigation system offers an
Eco-Route option that quickly calculates the most fuel efficient route a
driver can take to get from A to B.
MyFord Touch is the latest innovation from Ford to help drivers optimize
fuel economy. It builds on the fuel efficiency "coaching" concept Ford
pioneered on its SmartGaugeTM with EcoGuide cluster for the 2010
Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid as well as the all-new 2011
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. The system provides real-time fuel economy data and
promotes fuel-efficient driving by showing a graphic of growing leaves and
flowers.
"We have learned that when we provide drivers the information and tools
in an interactive and entertaining way, they want to drive more fuel
efficiently," said Jim Buczkowski, director of Global Electrical and
Electronics Systems Engineering. "MyFord Touch provides an unprecedented
level of information and interaction so drivers can make the choice to be
more fuel efficient."
The green road home
When a driver provides a destination to the navigation system, MyFord Touch
accesses historical and real-time traffic data as well as posted speed
information to calculate three navigation options: Fastest, Shortest and
Eco-Route.
Eco-Route is not necessarily the fastest or shortest route but is the
most fuel efficient. Typically, it charts a course that avoids congested
freeways while maximizing the use of major roads where the driver can
maintain an efficient rate of speed. When Ford of Europe engineers tested
the feature, they achieved up to a 15 percent improvement in fuel economy
using the Eco-Route.
"When drivers use Eco-Route - particularly in combination with MyFord
Touch's fuel-economy feedback and fuel-efficient driving techniques - they
can achieve a noticeable increase in fuel efficiency," said Jennifer Brace-Mezigian,
Ford user interface design engineer.
In addition to its Eco-Route feature, MyFord Touch enables drivers to
monitor and track their vehicle's real-time fuel economy performance and
mile-per-gallon averages for the past five, 10 and 30 minutes in the form of
a bar chart next to the fuel gauge on the display. Drivers can customize the
amount of information provided to meet their needs and hone their
eco-driving skills over time.
"MyFord Touch not only gives drivers information they can use to improve
their driving habits, but also expands on that capability by engaging the
navigation system to give drivers a variety of options," Brace-Mezigian
said. "The benefits will be greater because MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch
will be widely available in the future."
Eco-driving tips
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that the U.S. uses about
150 billion gallons of gasoline annually. If every driver practiced
eco-driving techniques, which can result in an EPA-estimated 15 percent
benefit in fuel economy, more than 22 billion gallons of gas would be saved.
Eco-driving techniques tested by Ford showed that motorists coached in
eco-driving can significantly improve the fuel economy performance of their
vehicles. Here are simple tips that any driver can use:
- Slow down and watch speed - Drive 55 mph instead of 65 to save fuel.
EPA estimates a 10 to 15 percent improvement in fuel economy by
following this tip. Also, aim for a constant speed. Pumping the
accelerator sends more fuel into the engine. Using cruise control
whenever possible on the highway helps maintain speed and conserve fuel. - Accelerate and brake smoothly - Accelerating smoothly from a stop
and braking softly conserves fuel. Fast starts, weaving in and out of
traffic and hard braking wastes fuel and wears out some of the vehicle
components, such as brakes and tires, more quickly. Maintain a safe
distance between vehicles and anticipate traffic conditions to allow for
more time to brake and accelerate gradually. - No idling - Today's engines don't need a warm-up. Start the car
immediately and gently drive away. Don't leave your car idling.
Prolonged idling increases emissions and wastes fuel. Turn the engine
off in non-traffic situations, such as at bank and fast food drive-up
windows, when idling more than 30 seconds. - Check your tires - Keep tires properly inflated to the recommended
tire pressure. This alone can reduce the average amount of fuel use by 3
to 4 percent. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and
reduce fuel economy. They also wear more rapidly. Check the vehicle's
door-post sticker for minimum cold tire inflation pressure. - Be kind to your vehicle - Maintain proper engine tune-up to keep
vehicles running efficiently. Keep the wheels aligned. Wheels that are
fighting each other wastes fuel. Replace air filters as recommended. Use
a fuel with good detergent additives to keep the vehicle engine clean
and performing efficiently. Always consult the owner's manual for proper
maintenance. - Travel light - Avoid piling a lot of luggage on the roof rack. The
added frontal area reduces aerodynamics and will hurt fuel economy,
reducing it by as much as 5 percent. Remove excess weight from the
vehicle. Unnecessary weight, such as unneeded items in the trunk, makes
the engine work harder and consumes more fuel. - Minimize use of heater and air conditioning - Use heating and air
conditioning selectively to reduce the load on the engine. Decreasing
your usage of the air conditioner when temperatures are above 80 degrees
can help you save 10 to 15 percent of fuel. Use the vent setting as much
as possible. Park in the shade to keep the vehicle cool and reduce the
need for air conditioning. - Close windows at high speeds - Don't drive with the windows open
unless you keep your speed under 50 mph. Driving with the windows open
at highway speeds increases aerodynamic drag on the vehicle and lowers
fuel economy. - Choose the right oil - Use good-quality oils with the viscosity
grade recommended in the owner's guide. Ford recommends SAE 5W-20 oil
for most cars and trucks to provide the best fuel economy. Only oils
"certified for gasoline engines" by the American Petroleum Institute
with the starburst symbol should be used. - Consolidate trips - Plan ahead to consolidate your trips. This will
enable you to bypass congested routes and lead to less idling.
For additional information on how to save on gas, visit the Driving
Skills for Life Web site and click on the "eco-driving" module. Ford's
eco-driving initiative builds on the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers'
comprehensive nationwide effort to promote eco-driving at
www.EcoDrivingUSA.com.
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