Upcoming Hybrid Cars

Ever since hybrid cars first appeared in the automotive world, many people wonder exactly how well the hybrid car. Even today, when hybrid cars become more known to the public, the more frequently encountered on the roads than cars with gasoline fuel. Even the upcoming hybrid cars makers are determined to show off and offer the advantages of this modern technology. Famous car companies such as Kia, Porche, Infiniti, Toyota and Ford are also competing to produce the best hybrid cars that will come on the market.

KIA products are now refined and subtly futuristic. An interesting product is the Kia Ray concept car, this hybrid car designed to advance the power gasoline engine, battery, or a combination of gasoline engine and a battery according to the stand.

Porsche 918 spyder hybrid will look beautiful and elegant, with two seats are comfortable and luxurious. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, hybrid sports car is very economical to maintain and cheap hybrid cars. In addition, the vehicle is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds with a 500 horsepower V8 engine.

2012 Infiniti M hybrid, hybrid cars ahead, luxury sedans, the next generation, efficient and high performance. Generation of a machine capable of 360 horsepower while maintaining an impressive 32 mpg. Designed with specific details and future innovations, a new driving experience will offer.

Hybrid cars that will come promised better than it already is. Hybrid cars are designed to be environmentally friendly, and the car companies know that people want a car with their affordable and easy to get around them. Car manufacturers are investing in large quantities in the creation of new hybrid cars coming. With the advent of electric cars are really still on the distant horizon. Car companies now compete to ensure their artificial hybrid cars produce the lowest amount of emissions.

CO2 emissions are extremely damaging to the environment around us. Reducing the level of emissions is an enormous task, and the car manufacturers are very enthusiastic with it.

Imagine if in this world all have hybrid cars, and none of the emissions that damage the atmosphere. Until now, the main goal of all upcoming hybrid cars is to produce significantly less emissions, and become more accessible to more people around the world. Make no mistake, these cars are slowly integrating themselves into popular consciousness, and over time they will become more affordable and more easily considered as a potential new car for the average. Maybe it's almost time to wave goodbye to the internal combustion engine altogether.

Xenon Headlight Bulbs 4 Benefits To Installation

There are many benefits to be had from replacing the current headlights in your car with xenon headlight bulbs instead. You will soon discover that these bulbs are much more powerful than conventional ones and so they make everything in front when driving at night or in conditions that may be stressful much sharper and clearer.

So what benefits are there to you for fitting such bulbs in your vehicle? Below we take a look at a few of the main benefits to be gained from installing xenon headlight bulbs in your car now.

Benefit 1 - The light emitted is much more powerful and clearer. In fact the light these bulbs emit is 3 times more than your standard bulbs are able to emit. As a result when driving visibility is much better potential dangers are highlighted much earlier on so you are able to react much more quickly.

Benefit 2 - It makes economic sense to fit such bulbs in your car. Yes these lights do produce a much higher wattage in comparison to other headlight bulbs but they don't actually use as much power to do so. So they will last considerably longer than the bulbs you have currently fitted so you won't have to spend so much money on replacing them as often.

Benefit 3 - Today you will find that when it comes to these types of headlight bulbs you have a number of different colors to choose from. Some of the colors available are crystal white, yellow, gold and ones that come with a stylish blue tint. Of course which color you choose will depend on the kind of vehicle you are driving? Certainly for a small family car fitting of the yellow or crystal white xenon headlight bulbs should be considered.

Benefit 4 - These types of bulbs are actually easy to install and are able to fit directly into the connectors for halogen headlight bulbs. As a result of this you don't need to actually pay anyone to fit them for you as you can do it yourself. To fit them requires no specialist tools, all that you need to do when it comes to the installation of xenon headlight bulbs is that you follow the instructions in the booklet that comes with them when you make your purchase. It is simply a case of you following the step by step instructions and you will have your new bulbs installed in no time at all.

Volvo Dares Drivers to Be Naughty

In a highly competitive luxury sedan division of the automotive industry, to be the best, Volvo is asking consumers, "How naughty do you want to be?" With the all-new 2012 Volvo S60, drivers can be as naughty as they want to be. The 2011 Vincentric's Best Value in America award winner has combined superior power, elegant designing, and top of the line safety features to become the rave of the town.

Featured in the 2012 Volvo S60 is the 2.5-liter inline five cylinder engine that is powered with 250 horsepower and 266 pounds per foot of torque. These naughty machines are equipped with a five speed automatic transmission that can either apply power to the front wheels or all four on all wheel drive models.

With a 0 to 60 time of 6.8 seconds, this Volvo leads all other luxury sedans in acceleration. This is an astonishing feat considering that it competes with the likes of the Audi A4, BMW 3-series, and the Lexus IS - all of which are equipped with a six-cylinder engine. Volvo S60's naughty five cylinder turbocharged engine causes all its competitors to eat dust.

Fuel efficiency is continually climbing up the scale as a major reason as to why consumers choose the automobile that they do. Boasting its 30 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, the 2012 S60 can allow its drivers to be naughty even longer.

The all new 2012 Volvo S60 has also brought to the table a brand new feature that will allow drivers to select between two different chassis settings. The Advanced Stability Control function features a roll rate gyroscope and acceleration sensor to detect slowly built up skids at an early stage and compensates this with great precision. In the Sport Mode, a driver has the option to shut off the spin regulation and allow for more rear skidding and more excitement.

The technology package boasts many safety features that consumers are drooling over. The Adaptive Cruise Control allows a driver to select a desired speed and gap time for the vehicle in front of them, and then automatically adjusts as the radar sensor detects slower vehicles. The Lane Departure Warning function signals the driver when the car crosses road marking without obvious reason. Finally, the Distance Alert activates a red warning light of the windshield to help drivers keep a proper distance with the vehicle in front of them.

The world's first Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake feature is also equipped in the S60. This feature can detect pedestrians and will automatically avoid collisions at speeds up to 22mph. The driver is alerted by flashing lights and a sound signal, and if they driver does not respond, the car's brakes are applied automatically with full braking force.

The 2012 Volvo S60 is a comfortable, elegant and powerful luxury sedan that pushes the road to its limits while providing the driver with top rated safety. Move over Shakespeare - To be naughty or not to be naughty... Is the real question. Go on be naughty, Volvo dares you!

The Most Affordable Cars to Own

With petrol prices at an all-time high and the purse strings stretched to the limit it's become more important than ever to have an affordable car. You needn't go electric or hybrid to save money though; there are many petrol and diesel cars that are now very economical thanks to improved engine technology Here are my pick of the most affordable petrol/diesel powered cars.

Fiat 500 TwinAir

The Fiat 500 TwinAir is powered by lowest CO2 emission petrol engine in the world. The revolutionary two-cylinder turbocharged TwinAir petrol engine does 68.9mpg and emits just 95g/km of CO2. A 0.9 litre engine might sound small but the TwinAir is just as powerful as the 500's 1.4 petrol engine. Because the Fiat 500 TwinAir emits just 95g/km it's qualifies from free annual road text and is also exempt from the London Congestion charge.

Smart Fortwo Coupe

Compact Smart cars are renowned for their ability to fit into the tiniest of parking spaces but they are also amazingly cheap to run. The Smart Fortwo Coupe with the 54hp CDi Turbodiesel engine is capable of doing an average of 83.1 miles per gallon and according to Smart can do as much as 100mpg if you drive smartly! The Smart Fortwo Coupe also has one of the lowest CO2 emissions of any fuel powered car on the road, emitting just 87g/km of CO2. Of course this means the Smart is exempt from congestion charges and road tax.

SEAT Ibiza SC E Ecomotive

Ecomotive is SEATs version of Ford's Econetic- efficient engines and lower C02 emissions is the aim of the game. SEAT claim that the SEAT Ibiza SC E Ecomotive is one of the 'greenest cars in its class' and with C02 emissions of just 92g/km it doesn't do bad! The 75PS 1.2 TDI engine promises 80.7 mpg on the combined cycle. Start Stop technology and clever Brake Energy Recovery System all help to reduce fuel consumption. There is no annual road tax to pay if you buy a SEAT Ibiza SC E Ecomotive.

Ford Fiesta Econetic

The Ford Fiesta is one best-selling model in the UK and the Econetic model is the best in its class for fuel efficiency and green credentials. The 1.6-litre TDCi Duratorq diesel engine emits just 98g/km of CO2 and averages an impressive 76.3mpg (88.3mpg for the extra urban cycle). If you drive the Econetic Ford Fiesta in London you'll be exempt from road tax and the congestion charge as it emits less than the 100g/km threshold. Even better the Ford Fiesta Econetic is also a couple of hundred cheaper than the equivalent Fiesta Zetec with a standard 1.6TDCi engine.

The Cost of a Nissan LEAF

Search for any new car on the internet and likelihood is you'll see something about its 'green' credentials. We are more concerned than ever about the environment and electric cars are becoming more mainstream. Whilst manufacturers have worked hard to minimise opposition- reducing range anxiety and addressing the 'silence' issue, most electric or hybrid cars come with a hefty price tag. So how does the world's first mass market electric car - the new Nissan LEAF- compare?

The Nissan LEAF went on sale in the UK in February 2011 with a price tag of £28,350. Take away the £5,000 government grant, which was introduced in January to encourage motorists to opt for electric, and the price dropped to £23,350. Currently the Nissan LEAF is being made in Japan and currency fluctuations recently caused the price to go up £2k to £25,990 including the grant).

Luckily the price of the Nissan LEAF is set to drop significantly when production moves over to the UK. Nissan's factory in Sunderland is due to start making batteries for the LEAF in 2012 and is expected to start full production by 2013. Nissan have said the price will fall below £25,000 but is this enough?

Currently the LEAF costs almost £10,000 more than its equivalent petrol and diesel rivals, the LEAF's biggest rival the Toyota Prius costs less than £22,000. The savings that can be made from swapping from fuel to electric is an electric car's biggest selling point. Originally the AA estimated that the LEAF would cost just 0.3p per miles, based on charging at home. Later they said it would cost more like 2p a mile, as the 0.3p was based on a low night electricity rate. Based on the 0.3p per miles you would save £1,500 a year if you drove 10,000 miles and therefore could recoup the extra money you paid for the car in 3 years, unlikely if you are paying 2p a mile. Given that many people like to change their car every 3 to 5 years, there is a chance you won't make your money back.

There are other bonuses though, the Nissan LEAF is exempt from road tax and the London congestion charge. Road tax for a Nissan Qashqai in Cardiff for example would cost £245 a year to tax. Now that road tax is determined by CO2 emissions and fuel type though many other 'green', not necessarily electric cars, are also free to tax, like the Fiat 500 TwinAir and Ford Fiesta Econetic.

The Best Practices to Save You Cash

Just owning a car is expensive, but actually driving it has the potential to bust your budget. Gas is a huge expense for the hundreds of thousands of drivers across the country, but if you fail to drive within the legal limits you could face hundreds of dollars in fines, repair costs, and insurance increases. So how can a driver protect their budget while on the road? By following these tips:

• Always drive the speed limit. Though you may be in a hurry, are a ticket and the subsequent increase in your insurance premium really worth speeding to your destination? Probably not. Additionally, if you already have several points on your license or do not have updated registration you could face more expensive charges. Should your license exceed the legal number of points you could even have to turn over your car and spend some time in jail. Clearly, the most cost-effective option is to simply follow the speed limit and avoid the situation altogether.

• Refrain from accelerating quickly. Your car literally weighs a ton, so naturally going from a complete stop to a higher speed will utilize a great deal of gas. Gas prices are constantly on the rise and have long been one of the most expensive costs associated with driving, so drivers should focus on reducing this expenditure as much as possible. By taking it slow and easing into the gas, instead of slamming the pedal, you can save a great deal of fuel.

• Coast. Coasting is when a driver is pushing neither the gas pedal nor the brake pedal. Moving only by the force of the momentum of your car, coasting is a great gas saver that can be used on a regular basis. When coming up to a stop sign or stop light, try to coast for as long as possible before pushing on the brake pedal. This means that drivers must be paying a great deal of attention to traffic in order to take their foot off the gas early, but the amount of fuel that is saved by coasting can add up. Additionally, by coasting instead of riding the brakes drivers can increase the life of their brake pads and rotors—decreasing vehicle maintenance and getting more out of the life of their car.

• Pay attention to where you buy gas. Keeping an eye on gas prices around town can help you determine where the cheapest stations are. Additionally, several websites monitor gas prices and can be referenced to help you save at the pump. Because gas is a huge expense, drivers should take advantage of lower gas prices and always top off the tank if they discover a great deal. Additionally, if you know gas is cheaper on one side of town than another, make it a point to purchase gas when running errands in that area.

Driving is very expensive—it's one of the most costly investments that people make in their lifetime. However, by paying attention to their driving habits and making responsible decisions, drivers can keep their budgets intact.

The Best Car Battery To Buy

Should you be looking for the best car battery to purchase you must know some of its characteristics, such as the cold cranking amps (CCA), the reserve capacity along with the group size. Let's start with the CCA.

CCA can be used in order to measure the ability of the battery to start the vehicle when it is cold outside. You need to purchase one that has a CCA rating which mustn't exceed the vehicle's original equipment manufacturer (OEM) cranking rate. If you don't be aware of rating for the car, you will have to check the owner's manual. If you happen to reside in an area which has a cold climate, it is recommended to buy an automobile battery that has a high CCA rating because of the reason that a chilled and sluggish engine will require a lot more capacity to start up.

Moving on to the reserve capacity, you need to know that it's the amount of minutes by which your automobile will run using only the battery if the alternator fails. Putting things inside a technical perspective, a completely charged battery will run at 25 amps and when the voltage falls below the minimum 10.5 amps necessary for order to run the car, you must change it with a brand new one. Obviously, you should buy an automobile battery that accompany the longest reserve capacity you'll find because of the reason why you might need that capacity in the unfortunate case in which your automobile will not start.

The group size concerns the outside dimensions of the batteries along with the keeping the ability terminals. Should you don't be aware of proper size for the vehicle, ask your mechanic or check the owner's manual.

Let's talk a little bit about the types of batteries. Basically you have two options: low maintenance (non-sealed) or maintenance-free. The first is recommended should you run your car in hotter climates. Taking into consideration the battery is not sealed, you will be able to add water whenever necessary. The 2nd kind of battery has a longer operational life and it is also takes less time to recharge. Their bad thing is that they're vulnerable to various failures due to the shedding of the active plate material that with time will weaken.

To get the best car battery to buy, acquire one that's "fresh". Quite simply, avoid purchasing a battery that's been about the shop's shelves in excess of Six months. Don't forget to check when the battery is made having a look at the case or the attached label. The manufacturing date includes a 2-digit code with one number and one letter ("A" means January; "B" for February and so forth); as the digit will represent the year ("11" is recognized as 2011). We recommend that you shouldn't purchase a battery from a gas station as most likely they'll be quite old.

As far as the warranty can be involved, it is determined by a set of 2 numbers which you will find for auction on it. Your priority will be to be aware of free replacement period. In other words, the interval of your time in which you'll obtain a free replacement should the battery you purchased does not work anymore. Another number you will discover on the label tells the total duration of the warranty.

We recommend that you buy a battery from one of these manufacturers: Napa, Exide, Duralast, Diehard, Everstart and others as well. Talk to your mechanic because he knows what type and brand of battery you need to get for the vehicle.

The Best Automotive Equipment Distributors

The automobile industry is a thriving one with millions of new vehicles being driven down the roads every year. Such an industry requires a huge support system in the form of maintenance, servicing and repairs for smooth functionality. Hence, the role of automotive equipment distributors is also very important for the smooth functioning of the industry.

An auto equipment distributor sells a lot of automobile accessories, gadgets, tools and machinery that are required for the construction, maintenance, repairs and servicing of automobiles. This equipment include items such as auto lift equipment, wheel alignment tool, battery charger, power tools, tire changers, brake lathes, wrenches, pliers, paint and auto body equipments, exhaust ventilation, etc. Each of these come with categories and sub categories. For instance, under the auto lifts there are items such as 2 post lifts, 4 post lifts, motorcycle lifts, in-ground lifts, low-rise lifts, mid-rise lifts, etc. Similarly, under power tools there are drills, screwdrivers, hot guns, ratchets, sanders, polishers, etc. The list is quite exhaustive and includes anything and everything that is required for automobile maintenance and repairs.

It is very important to get these products from the good automotive equipment distributors. Good distributors generally offer every imaginable automotive tools and equipment under one roof. They will be a one-stop solution to all automotive worries. The best brands will be available in one store. For instance, Hunter wheel alignment is one of the best in the industry and this is made available to customers who can sometimes get it at special prices. They not only provide the best quality and branded equipment, but also give quality service. The services include delivery and installation of the equipment as well as training where required.

They also provide periodic checks on equipment such as auto lifts that could turn out to be hazardous if not maintained properly. A good equipment distributor will generally have an online portal where customers can browse through the pages that have the various equipment available and shop online. The payment can be made from a secured site and the equipment will be shipped by the company to the address given by the purchaser sometimes within a day. They also provide free demonstrations of certain equipment. With on location maps, the customers are able to find out which store is the closest store in their locality if they feel that a direct inspection and purchase is needed. Having online sites, location maps and demos for the customers makes it much easier to select the right machinery or tool. Regular maintenance is an additional advantage that cannot be overlooked. The best auto equipment companies make certain that all these services are covered to ensure customer satisfaction.

In the automobile industry, the role played by automotive equipment distributors is huge. It is not enough to get vehicles on to the road, it is essential to keep it there to reap the benefits. Without auto repairs and maintenance, this is not possible. Without automobile equipment distributors and manufactures, the repairs and maintenance is not possible. The equipment and tools supplied by them is what lets the auto repair service run once the car is out on the streets.

Supercar Profile Ferrari FF

The Ferrari FF represents a number of firsts for Ferrari, and no, FF does not stand for Ferrari Firsts, although, perhaps it should. The FF actually stands for Ferrari Four. The car is a four seater, which is replacing the outgoing Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. However, Ferrari have made a number of four seaters before so that's not it. No, the second F stands for Four Wheel Drive. This is the first time that Ferrari has used four wheel drive on a road going production car.

Four wheel drive is not the only first for this car though. You cannot fail to notice the design of the FF as it is a radical departure from cars that have gone before it. The design is called 'shooting brake' and could be seen as a cross between a coupe and an estate car. The other way of looking at it is - it's a hatchback! The interior space that this creates allows for up to 400 litres of luggage, but, wait for it, the rear seats also fold down allowing for this capacity to be doubled. Can you imagine doing you DIY shopping and being able to fit everything in the back of your Ferrari!

However, this is no Ford Focus. This hatchback has a mighty V12 engine sat up front which produces a heady 660 bhp and 504lb ft of torque. That's good enough to propel the Ferrari FF from zero to 62mph in 3.7 seconds, thanks in part to the 7 speed dual clutch transmission already in use in the Ferrari 458 Italia and the California. The top speed is not to be sniffed at either - 208mph. By the way, the engine at over 6.2 litres is the most powerful engine Ferrari have ever put into a production car and you may find it quite remarkable that such a unit returns a rather respectable (for this sort of car) 18mpg.

The bodywork design is from Ferrari's favourite style house, Pininfarina, but you wouldn't think so to look at it, such is the departure from previous designs. To be honest I think it is going to be a love it or hate it design but one thing is for sure, it certainly will turn heads.

It is quite clear too, that Ferrari is trying to increase the size of their target market with this car too. The four wheel drive system for example means that it will be driveable in many more variable road conditions, including rain and snow. The shooting brake design means that the car is also practical to use every day as you no longer need to make a choice between bringing the kids or the shopping back from the supermarket.

If this is the shape of things to come from Ferrari then I can't wait to see what the replacement for the 599 will look like.

Supercar Profile Ferrari California

The Ferrari California was first unveiled to an unsuspecting bunch of car enthusiasts at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. It is a 4 seat (to be honest it is more a 2+2) grand tourer sports car which lays claim to a number of firsts for the Italian supercar manufacturer.

For example, the Ferrari California is the first Ferrari to feature a folding metal roof. It had to come eventually I suppose, but Ferrari have taken their time to introduce this to their lineup. The beauty of designing such a feature is that Ferrari managed to achieve never before matched aerodynamic properties for a convertible. In fact, they spent a lot of time and money to get the aerodynamics right on this car. So much so, that which a drag co-efficient of only 0.32, this is the most aerodynamic production road car Ferrari have ever produced.

Also, another first for a Ferrari is the fact that the Ferrari California features a V8 engine mounted up front. All previous front engined Ferraris have been V12s.

Thirdly, the California features a 7 speed dual clutch transmission, another first for a Ferrari production road car.

The extra engineering involved in the folding roof mechanism among other things makes the Ferrari California relatively heavy when compared to say, a Ferrari F430. You would think this would affect performance, and you would be right, except for the fact that dual clutch gear change mechanism improves acceleration so much that the California matches the F430's sprint time from zero to 62mph in less than four seconds. This is even more impressive when you consider that the up front V8 produces 30 horse power less than the F430's mid mounted unit.

Another first for a Ferrari road car is multi link rear suspension, which makes for superb handling.

One of the things that may not appeal to Ferrari customers is the look of the car. It is a bit of a departure from previous cars in the Ferrari stable. It's not an immediately likeable shape. Part of the problem is the need to incorporate the metal roof when it is folded, but opinion is divided. Some say they could have made a slightly greater effort to make the California prettier to look at.

The California is built in Maranello in a new production line at the side of the other cars in the Prancing Horse stable. Around 6000 Ferrari California's are built every year.

Spring The Best Time to Reorganize Garage

Around spring time each year, people get in the mood of organizing and reorganizing their homes. This idea became known as "spring cleaning." It is during this time that many families host garage sales for all the items they would like to get rid of. They feel that a garage sale is a great idea since it helps them have less clutter in their house and earn some money at the same time.

When going through their garages people find all sorts of interesting things they forgot they owned. People have their children's old clothing in bins that they stored for their future children. They have old documents or projects made by their children that they were too nervous to let go of. Others have lots of different tools and tool sets that come in handy every once in a while. Although a good percentage of the items that you will find in the garage will be broken and useless, there will be many things that you can really enjoy using. The main thing is to try to make use of the different items you find in your garage. If you find various bins and baskets, use them to organize the drawers in your house. If you come across brand new baby clothes that were never opened, give them away as baby gifts when going to a baby shower. If you see you have some nice picture frames in the garage, fill them with the latest pictures and hang them all over your walls. It will make you house a lot more homey and cozy.

A great thing that people find when cleaning out their garage is a car cover. Sometimes people buy car covers when they are on sale or receive car covers from relatives who owned extra ones, and store them in their garage. The problem is that forget that they even own a car cover and they don't bother making use of it. This is the wonderful thing about spring cleaning. You can take your precious car cover out of its little dark corner and actually use it to protect your car. Once you start using the car cover you will see how crucial it is. You will realize how much damage of your vehicle could have been avoided had you used the car cover all along.

In conclusion, spring is a great time to reorganize your garage and get rid of clutter. Although some things will need to be thrown out since they are ruined or useless, there are many things that can be put to good use. These items can enhance your home and make it the place you want it to be.

Scooters for Kids

When purchasing scooters for kids, not only should your choice depend on the child's interest and ability to learn, you should also consider scooter safety tips. Yes, decisions over what type of scooter one is going to purchase are parents' first concern. Typical outdoor activity equipment for kids must have safety features.

Scooters have always been popular with kids. With peer pressure, sometimes they do not think about their own safety. Most children just want what their friends have and the joy of owning semi-transport equipment.

We can do something about that. Safety is our main concern. Assess your child if he or she can handle the responsibility of having outdoor equipment. Children must understand that scooters are not to be used where there are lots of cars around or on the streets. They may use the sidewalk or the park for that matter.

Use protective gear. Have them use a sturdy helmet. It protects one from having head injuries. Have them use knee and elbow pads. They are used to avoid knee or elbow abrasions. Note that these scooter safety tips are not only applicable for scooters for kids but also for bicycle riders. This would help keep children away from harm.

Smaller kids should play within the vicinity of your home. Parents must look after children ages three to five for they have less developed motor skills. Let children play outdoors where they can't create havoc on your beautiful living room or have vases fall down because of them playing around. We can't let broken glass wound our precious kids do we?

Watch out for vehicles. When small children play on the sidewalk, a parent must keep a watchful eye over their little precious so that he will not get run over or side swept by any passing vehicle. Bigger children who use their own scooters as a transport must be advised not to cross the street without looking both ways. Playing at the park is much safer for any kid who wants to ride a scooter. Have your kids play with other kids so that they can develop good friendship ties.

Avoid gliding on steep slopes. There are houses built on steep slopes. Children must avoid using scooters where they can accelerate to an uncontrollable speed and unfortunately be placed in a perilous situation. If so, advise the kids on gently stepping on the breaks and not too abruptly if they come into this kind of situation. Gliding is fun but remind kids about voiding getting themselves in dangerous situations.

Having your own scooter is fun. How much more when your kids feel the need to have it too? Some have great handle bars and can be easily gripped. It has a steel platform where both feet can stand on and balancing on it is not a problem. Riding a scooter can even become a good exercise for them. Adhere to these scooter safety tips and gear up to keep riding scooters safe for our kids. It is better to be stay safe than regret the outcome of a dangerous situation. Scooters are quite great to have around - but you should never forget safety.

Saving Money at the Car Wash

If you enjoy having your car washed every two weeks or so, you might not realize how much this amount adds up over the course of one year. You might even be sending close to $500 annually just to have your car cleaned. Well it's great to have a spotless car, it's even better to have an extra $400 in your pocket. Here are a few tips that will allow you to save on your next trip to the carwash:

• Take some time. Let's face it, there is really no need for you to go to the car wash every two weeks, unless your job is to take your car through mud pits on a daily basis. Try going every month instead of every two weeks, plus this will give you an extra incentive to keep your car cleaned by your own means.

• Cheap vs. Expensive. It's okay to get the least expensive package, after all the basic clean-up job is all you should need. Sometimes there is just one extra incentive in the "gold" package compared to that of the "bronze," and is one extra upgrade really worth $10? Probably not, instead do the "extra" incentive yourself. For example, if the gold package cleans or dresses your tires, just do it yourself when you get home.

• Tip wisely. Yes, tipping people for excellent service is great and sometimes really warranted, but don't over tip. Car wash attendants usually get paid a standard amount that is above minimum wage and tips are just an extra incentive for them. Try to stay between 10 to 15 percent for tips, which can save you a couple hundred dollars when all is said and done at the end of the year.

• Still take care of your car. Just because you're getting your car cleaned doesn't mean you can treat it poorly the rest of the time. If you want to save money then hold on to your car for a long time instead of buying a new one every couple of years. You can feel good about this decision when you treat your car like the investment it is.

• Cover your car. If you can't park in a garage or other sheltered space, cover your car. This will save on trips to the car wash and protects your car from harmful weather conditions, including rain, snow and sun damage. A cover can protect your car's paint by shielding it from dents and scratches.

• Walk those extra steps. When parking in a public lot, park far away from other cars. Yes, you'll have to walk an extra minute or two, but isn't it worth it? Your car is less likely to be dented from close parking accidents and door slams. Additionally, parking farther away will probably put you out of the way of trees and other natural landmarks that could cause your car to be lined with dirt, debris and bird waste.

Taking these few precautionary steps will help you save on the amount of money you spend at the car wash and still keep your car relatively clean. Remember, you can treat your car to a wash every once in a while, but cutting back will save you some serious dough.

Rear Suspension Types in Mass Production Cars

The type of rear suspension depends on whether the car is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Initially, front-wheel drive cars employed a solid beam axle setup at the rear. However, as ride quality and handling became important even for mainstream buyers, car manufacturers improved the rear suspensions on their front-drive cars to where they are now, which is using independently-suspended designs for the rear that use a MacPherson strut, multilink setup or unequal length A-arm setup. Since the rear wheels on a front-wheel drive car do not need the steering gear needed for the front suspension, it is a simple matter to adapt the front suspension for use as rear suspensions in front-drive cars.

Rear-wheel drive suspension for cars can use a live axle with a multilink-type suspension, but, as we said, more modern cars now use 4-wheel independent suspensions because of ride and handling requirements and competition in the market. It must be noted that cars like the 2011 Challenger Drag Pak use a live axle to handle the power and torque that the V10 engine puts out. Unlike in the 60s though, cars like these are the exception today rather than the rule. Rear-wheel drive independent suspensions have the differential bolted to the car's unibody or to a sub frame. External driveshafts with universal joints on either end connect to the wheel hubs. Springs or MacPherson-type struts are then used in conjunction with control links or trailing arms attached to the car's frame. Vehicles with 4-wheel steering also employ a mechanism that allows the rear wheels to swivel a little. While most mass-produced cars today are equipped with IRS, specialist car manufacturers, particularly those that make lightweight track cars, sometimes employ a de Dion rear suspension. It has the advantages of no camber change on rebound, which greatly improves traction, as well as having reduced unsprung weight which improves overall handling.

All-wheel drive cars' rear suspensions normally mimic the design for the front suspension. While double wishbone suspensions are recognized as superior in performance because of its rigidity and the camber control it provides, the MacPherson strut still sees a lot of use in all-wheel drive suspensions because of its compact packaging. Despite giving negative camber as the spring compresses (which is good for handling), it can be problematic during periods of acceleration. Notably though, two World Rally Champion cars (Subaru Impreza and Lancia Delta Integrale) used MacPherson strut suspensions.

Practical Test Explained

If you passed your driving test after or on the 1st of January 1997 and you want to tow a caravan or a trailer then you may have to take a specific practical driving test to enable you to do so.

If you were taught by any driving schools in York or whichever part of the country you live in before 1st of January 1997 they should have informed you that if you pass your test before this date then you keep your entitlement to be able to drive a vehicle and trailer combination of 8.25 tonnes, as well as a mini bus and a trailer as heavy as 750 kilograms.

However a new law was introduced on 1st January 1997 that states all drivers that pass after this date lose that entitlement and have to take a practical test in order to be able to gain it back again. If you decide not to take this practical test then it isn't the end of the world.

If you do decide to take the towing a trailer or caravan test it would be advantageous to ask any of the driving schools in York if that is where you live or whichever other area you live to give you some driving lessons as this would give you some relevant experience.

The law states that if you haven't taken this practical test then you are only allowed to drive vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes and only allowed to tow a maximum weight of 750 kilograms.

The car and trailer test, more commonly known as the B+E, is based on the lorry driving test and lasts roughly an hour. The B+E tests aren't conducted at regular driving test centres, but at vocational bus and lorry driving test centres.

The towing test (B+E) includes such things as:

Vehicle safety questions
An off of the road reverse manoeuvre
A controlled stop
Un-coupling and coupling of the trailer and driving on the road

Your practical B+E test will include approximately 10 minutes of independent driving to assess your ability to drive safely whilst making decisions independently.

You can also take someone with you on your test. The most logical person to take would be your driving instructors, although most good driving schools in York or whichever area you live should tell you that you don't have to take them along. As long as they are at least 16 years old, and they are aware that they can't help or take part in any of the test.

I hope this has helped you when you come to take your B+E practical test.

Portable Tire Pump

The portable tire pump does not just save you the inconvenience of going to the filling station or the few cents you may be charged for using the filling station pump. As would be expected, it is generally slower than its filling station counterpart due to the size of its motor. Those that pump quickly tend to drain the battery fast, and even if the engine is on the battery may not recharge fast enough. All things considered, it tends to give better accuracy for two reasons:

1. You have the luxury of checking your tire pressure in the morning before you drive off. A tyre that has been working or exposed to the sun tends to have higher pressure that a cold one.

2. It is better maintained. It does not go through the rough handling such as being banged, dropped and poorly stored as its filling station counterpart experiences.
Benefits accrued from having the correct tyre pressures are longer tyre life, better handling in adverse conditions, improved fuel economy, and most importantly fewer accidents. By the way, the recommended tire pressure can be found at the sticker on the driver's side door, the owner's manual and not on the tyre wall.

Here are some of the things you need to take into account while choosing a portable tyre pump:

Ease of use: The cable must be long enough to reach all tyres. While you think this should be obvious, not all pumps meet this basic criterion. A cable length of 9 feet would be sufficient. Still on this point, you should be able to use it without needing someone to hold the pump nozzle for you or help you remove it from the tyre valve. Quite a number of well known brands are not exactly user friendly and tend to be either too loose or too tightly gripped at the nozzle that keeping the nozzle on the tyre valve or even removing it becomes an unpleasant experience.

Capacity: It should have a pressure range of between 0 - 150 PSI. Another measure of capacity is how quickly it fills up the tyre. Just like anything else you buy do not take the seller's word for it. Search the net reviews about the product in places like amazon about its performance before you make a commitment.

Versatility: you do not just want a "one trick pony". Most pumps come with adapters for bikes, air mattresses and football. Make sure these come with your portable tyre pumps.

Porsche Is A Great Car

All the brands mentioned here have a lot of experience in different forms of racing to help them develop their cars. There is a transfer of technology from race cars to road cars that turns out to be pretty helpful.

Audi, for example are deeply involved in racing. The two main forms of racing they're currently involved in are the German Touring Car Series and the LeMans series. Audi have won many of the 24 hours of LeMans over the last decade and have become known as a real powerhouse. Some say that Audi is the new BMW.

Audi has a higher performance line of cars called the S-Line. The S-Line cars mirror the rest of their lineup, but have performance enhancements. They will be more powerful and enjoyable to drive, but the ride might be a little stiffer.

BMW have been involved in many forms of motorsports including DTM, Formula 1 and endurance sports car racing. They recently left Formula 1 and will probably return to the DTM after having departed in the late 80s or early 90's. They're currently doing very well in the GT class of the American LeMans series. BMW is also making its way at the 24 hours of LeMans and other races like the 24 hours of Dubai.

BMW have the M cars in their performance lineup. Similar to the S-Line, the M cars mirror some of the standard BMW cars. Examples include the M3, M5, M6, M Coupe and M Roadster.

Mercedes is another example of a German car maker that's been active in racing. They've done very well in the German Touring Car Series and in Formula 1. Their road cars have a performance line with the AMG package. They will also be more powerful and enjoyable do drive.

All of the higher performance cars have a bigger price tag and are often more expensive to repair. But if you love performance, it's a great form of entertainment.

Now we have to talk about Porsche. Porsche was founded by Dr. Ferry Porsche, a German engineer. The most notable model is the Porsche 911. It's had many iterations like the 993, 996 and 997. The 997 is the most recent model.

The Porsche 911 has been one of the most race winning cars in history, and in many venues. They've won at LeMans, Daytona, Sebring and many other tracks. They've also been active in rally racing and other forms of racing.

The Porsche customer program is noted for its great racing support. Porsche factory drivers are considered to be some of the best around any circuit.

For street driving, the Porsche 911 is a fun car to drive. They have other cars in their lineup like the Cayman that are a ton of fun too.

Online Driving Schools

Online driving schools have been around for about 10 years now, but they haven't been too popular until recently. These online classes seem to be the latest craze to save money or even protect driving records. While driver improvement schools have always been available, most of the time people had to dedicate an entire Saturday at a local community college. But now, these same classes are offered on the internet. You can take the courses from the comfort of your own home, in your PJ's, and on your own free time. So why exactly would anyone want to attend one of these online driving schools?

First, they are an excellent way to clear your record if you get a traffic ticket. Many times, a court will allow minor traffic violations to be wiped away from a drivers' record as long as the offender successfully completes a defensive driving class. And these days, most courts allow you to fulfill this requirement using online driving schools.

A lot of parents are finding benefits to these internet based drivers programs for their teens, too. In fact, quite a few teens are fulfilling all of their "classroom" requirements right on the web. By using an online driving school, the cost of tuition is a fraction of traditional classroom training. But that doesn't mean they are of lesser quality. Unlike in a classroom setting, these online drivers education courses are interactive and filled with videos, animations, and interactive games. This hands on approach typically allows teens to pay more attention, and they learn much quicker than they do in a traditional classroom setting. They still must complete behind the wheel experience with a certified instructor. So usually, an online driver ed program will help students locate qualified instructors in their area to complete that requirement. The monetary savings by going this route are extraordinary, and the pass rate is better than traditional classroom based drivers ed programs.

Even experienced drivers are using driver improvement classes on the internet. Depending on age and state, some insurance companies are actually required by law to lower insurance rates for those who have successfully completed a certified drivers safety course. And guess what? You can't fail the course! Everyone passes these insurance courses as there is no way to fail. The insurance reduction classes are typically very cheap if done on the web, around 15 or 20 bucks, but give car insurance discounts for 3 to 5 years, sometimes more.

Of course, with all things, there are advantages and disadvantages to online driving schools. The advantages are pretty obvious. Not only can you dismiss traffic tickets, obtain a drivers permit, or receive insurance discounts, but you can take these courses at your own pace. Most schools allow you to pause the program and come back to it whenever you'd like. No more wasting an entire day in a classroom setting. With the animations, videos, and interactive features, it's much easier to stay awake and you might even learn a thing or two.

Unfortunately, there are some online driving schools to stay away from. Since the popularity of internet schools is exploding, so are the scammers. While these scam sites are normally found and shut down quickly, it's still a concern to contend with. Other sites, while legitimate, may offer very poor quality instruction. The best way to combat this is to always check with the Better Business Bureau. Go to the BBB website and type in the company name you are planning on signing up with. If they aren't listed, or have a poor rating, stay away. All legitimate schools should be listed on the BBB website.

While some people are still afraid to use online driving schools since they don't think it's as "hands on" as it should be, it's worth looking into. Check with your insurance company to see if you are eligible for a discount by completing an online course. Consider it as an option for your teen to obtain a drivers permit (it'll save a load of cash). And heck, if you get a traffic ticket, you have nothing to lose. It pays for itself!

Obeying the Speed Limit

All responsible drivers understand that maintaining a legal speed is not just a matter of being right or wrong in the eyes of the law—it's a matter of practicing safe driving to keep yourself and others out of harm's way. Of course safety and avoidance of a hefty fine are great reasons to stick to the speed limit, but surprisingly enough you can also save money by keeping your speed in check.

Car expenses can add up quickly, so why not keep your budget out of the red by slowing it down a bit? This is the easiest way to keep from piling up extra bills. How can driving the speed limit keep your expenses down? In a number of ways:

1. Fines. Depending on how fast you are going, speeding can cost you anywhere from eighty or so dollars to jail time. Of course this can put a huge strain on your budget—not to mention on your driving record. Depending upon your history, how many points you have on your license, whether or not you have the proper paperwork (license and registration), and how many miles over the speed limit you were going, you could lose your license and even your car! This means not only paying the fine, but also paying to reinstate your license (if you can even get it back) and to get your car back. Slowing it down is definitely worth avoiding this risk.

2. When you get a citation for speeding, or for causing an accident—something that is very possible when driving over the speed limit—your insurance is often going to increase. This means that you will pay more for your annual policy, resulting in more money coming out of your paychecks each month and less money to spend on other things. Is getting to your destination five minutes earlier really worth the potential hundreds of extra dollars that you could pay out to your insurance company? Probably not.

3. Gas. To accelerate, your car—which weights over a ton—takes a lot of fuel. The optimal speed for driving for many cars, as far as gas mileage goes, is between 40 and 45 miles per hour. When going over that speed, your car takes up a larger amount of gas, resulting in more frequent trips to the pump. Additionally, hitting the gas as soon as the light turns green and quickly accelerating is also a big waste of fuel—especially when in city traffic where there are several stop lights and signs. Why accelerate quickly if you are going to have to stop again in less than a mile? Keep it slow and steady and you will spend less time pumping gas and more time enjoying the ride.

As you can see, obeying the speed limit can save you a bundle. When driving, try to maintain an even speed and never accelerate too quickly, as doing so can cause a variety of financial and safety issues. Remember, that ticket, hospital bill, or increased insurance premium is never worth arriving at your destination five minutes early.

New Honda Jazz AKA Honda Fit

The original Honda Jazz model was launched in 2002 and since then has proven to be the leader in its class. The name itself invokes a sense of fun and coolness as for its namesake. The original model won numerous awards and attracted customers from a wide spectrum of drivers, ranging from teenagers to geriatrics this car had supreme mass market or universal appeal.

Thus the new model for this year has some big shoes to fill and although Honda hardly advertised it, the preorders were already piling up by the time the new model was first announced. Word of mouth and the strength of the Jazz reputation as well as branding were already so strong Honda managed to save a pretty penny on advertising. So what's new in the new Jazz? How can one improve on an already near flawless design? Well to tell the truth, not much, the new Honda Jazz retains most of the features that made the original so widely popular amongst a large demographic whilst updating the exterior façade to keep up with current market preferences.

The engine from the original has been retained in its 1.4 liter form with minor tweaks and adjustments to pass stricter emission and pollution legislations in place in most countries as well as ensure acceptable fuel economy. All different models in the Jazz range retain the legendary steel heart engine of the original. As they say if it's not broken don't fix it. The already bulletproof engine required little change if any to improve it and it was a wise and sound decision by Honda to stick with it.

It is the bodywork that truly sets the new Honda Jazz apart from previous models. Although the silhouette of the original remains, closer examination of the car reveals a surprisingly sleeker aerodynamic body with a wind cheating shape that serves to reduce drag coefficient and increase fuel efficiency. Also the latest Jazz boasts twin projector headlamps and new improved rear led lighting echoing Honda's current line of cars such as the Honda City and Honda Civic. Another major improvement over the previous model is of course the as the clever use of space to increase boot capacity whilst retaining a petite profile. The boot compartment of the new Jazz model is noticeably larger than the previous Jazz

Thus I can proudly say that the new Honda Jazz is a worthy heir to the legacy of its illustrious predecessors and is bound to be regarded as a modern classic. In fact the only negative comment I can think of is this model has a slightly higher price when compared to vehicles by other manufacturers in the same category, nonetheless the superior quality of the new Honda Jazz easily offsets the slightly higher price for a small car.

Making Your Brakes Last

You have surely heard the sound of it before, the screeching noise of brakes about to go bad. When pulling up to a red light also entails covering your ears, then it is probably high time you get a new set of brake pads. Should the problem go on for too long, you may be in for some new rotors—and a hefty bill—as well. Of course brakes do not last forever, but how can you make them last as long as possible to keep your budget in check and your car out of the shop?

Many people do not realize that the way in which they drive can have a huge affect on the lifespan of their car's many pieces and parts. The same is true with brakes. By following these tips, you can keep your brakes going longer and keep your mechanic bills to a minimum:

• Try not to ride the brakes. This wears them down more quickly—resulting in more frequent brake jobs and a less fruitful bank account. Instead, stop accelerating long before you get to the stop light or stop sign and let your car naturally lose speed. Of course you will have to use the brakes, but only when you approach the stop. This will also save you on gas, as you will use less during the approach and, consequentially, spend less at the pump.

• If possible, do not slam on your breaks. Though emergency stops happen, try not to leave the braking until the last minute if you can help it. This is hard on your brake pads, your rotors, and really your entire car. Finding a happy medium between stomping the breaks and constantly pressing them is all a matter of trial and error. The key is to find a balance between being a safe driver and being a frugal one.

• When washing your car, don't forget the brakes! Brake dust gets all over your hubcaps or rims, so just imagine what it's doing to the undercarriage of your vehicle. Of course you do not have to crawl under your vehicle with a scrub brush, but do try to rinse the wheel well and other visible parts of the car with the hose.

• Cheaper is not always better. The old saying "you get what you pay for" certainly applies in the automobile industry. Installing cheap brake pads will only ensure that you have to come back for a new set sooner. Of course, the most expensive products are not necessarily the best, but do make sure that you invest in your brakes by purchasing the most reliable brand. This may cost more up front, but it will keep your car out of the shop longer.

Saving money is important in today's economy, but there are some ways for you to shave expenses from your vehicle maintenance costs. Practicing good driving habits that lengthen the lifespan of your car's brakes, and other parts, will help you maintain both safe driving practices and a workable budget.

Learner Driver Watch Out

Are you a considerate of learner drivers?

Just recently I had a fairly new student who, admittedly, approached a set of traffic lights a little slow with the result they turned red and we had to stop. The driver directly behind us was obviously a bit peeved.

He proceeded to follow us for about a kilometer up and down roads; first he would gun his engine and then wait until the very last moment before slamming on his brakes. This was done repeatedly until he eventually gave up. Needless to say my student was quite upset. And yes I did get his license plate number.

Obviously this example is not typical of an inconsiderate driver but on rare occasions, situations similar to these do arise.

Just a bit of background information

It always intrigues me when discussing learner drivers with friends and acquaintances. Most are understanding but some can become quite irate and will drone on and on about what a danger they are, how they shouldn't be allowed on the road, how they inconvenience other drivers and so on...

Now I know some of you believe that you came out of the womb driving a car and have conveniently forgotten those first lessons when you were starting out, preferring instead to believe that you could drive adequately from day one. And yes, some [very few] have a natural talent for it, but most don't, it's a very gradual process.

Learning to drive is a multi skilled task and research has shown that it can take up to 120 hours of driving practice before these skills are truly learnt. Brand new drivers have to really concentrate just to master the most basic of tasks, steering, braking etc. In the early stages they can be pretty much oblivious as to what is happening around them and so are particularly vulnerable when other drivers do the wrong thing.

What inconsiderate drivers do

    * Speed up rather than give way in a merge situation
    * Change lanes and cut directly in front - without signaling
    * Tail gate to force the learner to speed up
    * Overtake just as a student is about to make a turn
    * Jump into a parking spot as the learner is trying to maneuver in
    * Blatantly disobey the rules at four way intersections
    * Change lanes without head checking their blind spot
    * Run a red light even though the learner is in the intersection about to turn
    * Refuse to allow them to change lanes
    * Make rude gestures and shout abuse

This is by no means a complete list but I'm sure you get the idea. There is often no way a brand new driver will have the necessary skills to quickly adjust their driving in these situations, so it is up to the instructor to respond to avoid potential accidents. It is far more difficult to control the situation when a parent is the instructor without the benefit of dual pedals.

Most inconsiderate drivers do not of course do these things with the intent of harming anyone, they just don't think of the possible outcomes to their thoughtless actions.

Of course it's irritating to be stuck behind a new driver, especially if we are in a hurry and in an ideal world all learners would be relegated to an isolated area until their driving ability was up to standard. But in the real world you are going to find them everywhere you go. So why not take a deep breathe, give them plenty of room, do the right thing because one day it may be your son or daughter being taught to drive.

Is Distracted Driving the New Drunk Driving

Distracted driving is quickly becoming a criminal offense, not only on a state level, but on a national level as well. Politicians have passed several laws in an attempt to combat increasing public outcry as well as the raise in fatalities due to distracted drivers. Many more laws are on the way as driving while distracted continues to make headlines. But driving distractions are nothing new. So why all the fuss about it now?

Similar to drunk driving, it has taken some time to fully understand how dangerous distracted drivers really are. While cell phones have been the main topic of discussion, distractions in our vehicles have existed for over one-hundred years. In fact, the very first fatal car accident in the UK was the result of a distraction. While Mr. Edsell was attempting to locate his "warning bell" to alert pedestrians of his presence, he ran over a woman at a whopping speed of 4mph. Maybe he should have been watching where he was going instead of looking for that warning bell!

From eating in the car to chatting with passengers, distracted driving has always been an issue. But now that mobile technology is finding its way into our vehicles, the problem has become much more serious and much more tempting. Horrible accidents are happening due to drivers talking on cell phones, playing with GPS devices, text messaging, fussing with MP3 players, and even using laptop computers while driving. As more and more news stories of these terrible accidents make top headlines, stricter laws are being put into place.

Not long ago, the same scenario occurred with drunk drivers. People felt they could still drive safely after drinking, and their friends allowed them to do so without much resistance. The police would often look the other way and it was common practice to simply give erratic drunk drivers a ride home. Being arrested for DUI or DWI was very uncommon. That is, until, some horrible accidents started making headlines and the true dangers were realized. These days, if you get pulled over after a night of drinking, it's a different story. You'll be arrested, lose your drivers license, charged with a criminal offense, be forced to pay thousands of dollars in fines, perform community service, and maybe even lose your job. And that's for a first offense!

Distracted driving is heading in the same direction. Bans on cell phones are occurring at the local level with national texting laws already in full force. Some law enforcement agencies have even gone as far as obtaining cell phone records after fatal accidents to determine if anybody was operating their vehicle while distracted. The criminal charges filed against those who caused a major accident while text messaging are very similar to those arrested after causing an accident while drunk.

This trend is only going to continue. Many statistics show that texting, or even talking on a cell phone, is worse than that of an individual with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of.08, the legal alcohol limit in the United States.

Texting on the road is an obvious danger, yet millions of people continue to perform this dangerous task everyday. Most people who read or send text messages as they drive take their eyes off the road for 3 to 5 second intervals. That's like being blind for the length of a football field. What's worse, is during closed course studies, drivers frequently lost track of time and didn't even realize how long their eyes were off the road.

Talking on a cell phone is a much more debatable issue, but studies are showing very surprising and scary results. As time goes on, there is more evidence showing that the mental power it takes to talk on a cell phone is the main danger. Not so much the device itself. In closed course studies, reaction time was dramatically increased when using a cell phone, even if hands free devices were used. Similar to drunk driving, effects such as lane drifting and trouble maintaining a constant speed also occurred. Even judgment and reaction time was impaired. Drunk driving and cell phone driving share many similarities.

Some believe talking on a hands free cell phone is no different than talking to a passenger in the vehicle. But the difference is pretty substantial. A passenger has the ability to see exactly what you're seeing. Their tone of voice changes and breaks in the conversation occur during times the driver has to concentrate. That doesn't occur when talking to somebody on a cell phone, and the psychological affects are astounding.

While cell phones have taken the spotlight, distracted driving takes many forms. The practice will continue to gain attention as the dangers become more known. In our ever connected society, it's a reality we are all going to have to come to grips with. While doing things from our vehicle can be a convenient time savor, we must wake up to the reality that distracted driving is a serious danger which must be stopped. It is the new drunk driving.

Instant Garages

Your automobile represents an investment that should be protected from the elements. However, if your regular garage is too small, you need to consider a canopy for your automobile which will usually only be 10 feet to 12 feet in width. An automobile canopy can be used as an inexpensive and versatile extension of your current garage or as an alternative to a regular garage.

An instant canopy is also known as a portable shelter or an instant garage. It is an effective way to provide protection for your automobile from bird droppings, debris, ice, tree sap, snow, and fading paint as a result of the burning Ultra Violet radiation from the sun's rays.

The instant garage can be used for much more than simply a shelter for your automobile. They can also be used as recreational vehicle or boat storage, storage for yard equipment such as tillers and mowers, shade for tender growing plants, a metal or wood workshop, a shed for the storage of tools, and using the automobile canopy as a two car garage canopy will allow you to combine any of these.

The kits for automobile canopies are designed to be very simple and be set up in only a few hours usually by a single person using no or minimal tools. They can be rapidly taken down. There are many automobile canopy options.

The best car canopies are made from multiple layers of a blend of vinyl and polyethylene or polyethylene that is laminated. They usually measure anywhere from 12 to 24 mil in thickness and from 7 to 12 ounces in weight. They are rot and shrink proof. The material of the automobile canopy will provide resistance to Ultra Violet radiation for an increased lifespan.

The most common types of canopies are the round and the peaked roof style. They are both equal in strength. However, as a result of its side walls that are straight, the style of the peaked roof has slightly more interior space.

The frame of the car canopy is either galvanized steel or are powder coated to help prevent rust and corrosion. Although there may be some variation in the diameter of the frame a steel frame will considerable outlive the tarp material. Some of the frames are constructed using a reinforcement and lock system that is very sophisticated while others have rivets that are made from metal at the points of connection. The frame sizes can range anywhere from 10 inches to 32 inches long and 8 inches to 12 inches high and have supports for the arches that span every 3 feet to 4 feet.

Most canopy kits don't include an anchor system that is permanent. The most common choice is the auger anchor, and there are two kinds that are dependent on where you want to set the canopy up at. You should choose an anchor kit that is appropriate for the location of your canopy for additional stability, such as dirt, asphalt, gravel, concrete, or wood.

There are several features that might be optional or standard depending on the type of automobile canopy that you select. The optional skylight will provide better lighting conditions and air circulation. Some canopies have zippered or solid back panels while on some designs that are enclosed a zippered front door is common. The cost of the automobile canopy will be determined by the quality of materials that are used.

How To Replace A Tire Safely

There are 2 different ways that you can use to approach changing the tires on your vehicle. The best way is to take your vehicle to a pro automotive mechanic shop and pay out a great amount of money for their expert services. Yet another way is to learn how to diy by using these short useful to do steps that I am gonna explain to you right now.

Your first step will be without doubt to ensure you have the essentials you need: a jack port, spare tire and tool equipment. Just about every automotive should have these. You will want to remove these things from the trunk or hatchback and place them on the road next to the flat car tire.

Once you've the essential tools it is time to commence. Before switching your flat tire, ensure that the auto is in park and that it is on a flattened surface. Make sure it is not left on an slope so your vehicle won't fall off the jack port, and hurt you. Also be sure the emergency brakes are on to ensure your protection.

Position the jack. Check your user guide to verify the location where the jacking point of the car is. Be certain that it is in line with the jacking point. Your vehicle need to be in secure and leveled terrain before you'll raise.

Raise the auto. Elevate the vehicle far enough so that there's ample room to take off the flat car tire.

Remove the flat tire. Very carefully pull the tire towards you until it has slid off.

attach the spare tire. Identically you took off your flat tire put on the spare, it may take a few tries to line it up correctly so that it slides in.

Before you can set forth driving again, you want to grab your flat tire as well as put it where your spare use to be. You don't want to leave flat car tires on the highway side. As early as you can, you ought to get a further spare tire so that you are set just in case this occurs to you again.Furthermore make sure you keep close track of the traffic as it drives by you so that if something seems a little close you have time to get out of the way before you're struck. Often time's drivers find ways to disturb themselves and may not see you so you have to guarantee your own basic safety by paying attention to out for other traffic.

Now that you know how to replace a flat tire, and know very well what you have to be prepared to do it, you can feel comfortable that you won't be inconvenienced that much or kept off the road for too long when the problem develop.

How Does A Power Inverter Work

A power inverter converts your car's direct current (DC) battery power into conventional alternating current (AC) power which can then run a range of household products such as microwaves, power tools, TVs, radios, computers etc when an AC outlet is not available. Particularly useful for camping or long road trips.

Just connect the inverter to your car battery, and plug your AC devices into the inverter and you've got power on the go. (Smaller inverters will connect directly via the car's cigarette lighter)

The Technical Bit...

Two factors determine how a power inverter works: wave output and wattage output. Wave output describes the physical appearance of electrical signals as they move across an oscilloscope. Square waves appear exactly as their name specifies: like squares on a grid. Pure sine waves, also called true sine waves, appear as visible waves on the screen.

How do I know which Inverter to choose?

The first step in selecting a power inverter is to match the inverter to the voltage of the battery you'll be using for power. In the majority of cases, you'll be using a standard 12-volt car battery, so you would want to select a 12-volt inverter.

The next step is to identify which devices you plan to power with the inverter. Each device should carry a label which that tells you the wattage it requires to operate. The wattage rating of your inverter must surpass the wattage of the highest wattage device or the total wattage of all the devices you plan to run simultaneously, or of the largest device.

Some devices draw a higher wattage than their normal operating wattage rating when they first start up. This is known as peak or surge, and this information should also be listed on the device's label. Most power inverters also have a peak rating, so make sure the inverter's peak rating is higher than the peak wattage of the device you intend to power. Microwaves are a special case. As an example, you may know that your microwave is a 400-watt microwave. This is actually the cooking wattage. The power wattage might be twice that amount. Again, check the label on the device to make sure.

Power inverters which run through your car cigarette lighter are designed for lower wattage devices - laptops, phone chargers etc. In fact, if you try to pass more than about 400 watts through a cigarette lighter connection, it will fail -- and it might even start a fire in your vehicle.

Heavy Duty Altec Bucket Trucks

In the ever changing world of building construction and heavy-duty utility services, Altec bucket trucks have indeed gained the highest number of positive feedback when it comes to quality, functionality, reliability, and safety.

Heavy-Duty Altec Bucket Trucks

Bucket trucks may have been around for already about half a century. But the basics behind these behemoths have stayed the same except for a number of modifications that have contributed to the safety and efficiency in completing everyday heavy-duty routines such as building construction, maintenance of public structures, tree trimming, and rescue operations.

A bucket truck, in essence, is a large truck with a telescopic arm or boom mounted on the platform located at the back of the truck. The bucket attached at the end of the boom is mainly intended to carry and move workers off the ground. The upward and sideways motion of the arm allows workers to gain access to taller structures safely. Contrast that with ordinary ladders and you'll discover a huge advantage in terms of safety and efficiency.

Purchasing bucket trucks entails greater understanding on the type of services for which you plan to use the trucks. Specifications may include the size of the truck, horsepower, fuel consumption rate and type (usually diesel-powered), maximum weight capacity, and other dimensions specific to the truck itself.

The attached boom, however, is manufactured separately with specifications that include the maximum height of the telescopic arm, the maximum load capacity of the bucket in terms of weight and number of persons, and the mechanism used to lift and move the boom (hydraulics or pneumatics).

Today's buildings, monuments, and even natural landscapes require these types of trucks for maintenance. Indeed, bucket trucks have been proven useful when it comes to heavy-duty operations such as cleaning glass windows of tall buildings, maintenance and repair of electrical and telephone poles, or even rescue operations in an event of fire or severe storms.

Because trucks are manufactured separately from the attached booms, choosing the right brand for the mounted boom would also be necessary if you wish to reap the biggest returns for your money.

Of all the well-known brands available, Altec's over 70 years of engineering history has made the brand a leader in the production of high-quality booms for any type of projects or businesses. As the need for safer equipment becomes a paramount concern when it comes to working on projects that require such machineries, Altec bucket trucks are guaranteed to last for many years, requiring only the least amount of maintenance possible because of the state-of-the-art materials used during the manufacturing process.

Get Your Personal RV

Different kinds of vehicles available in the market have interested people. Different people have different kinds of requirements regarding their vehicles. Some need big vehicles while others require smaller ones. Luxury vehicles are always in great demand among the high society people.

These people always want to make sure that they have the best and the most unique vehicle in town. Among the various kinds of vehicles that have become popular these days you might be aware of the RV. This is known as the recreational vehicle which is usually found in North America.

This is a kind of motor vehicle which is equipped with different kinds of luxuries and can even be used a second home. Inside the vehicle you have living space with all the essential amenities that are found in your home.

The recreational vehicles are in great demand these days. These are one of the best ways to travel in luxury. There are certain companies which manufacture these kinds of vehicles. If you are interested in the RVs then first of all you need to learn about the features it has to offer.

Inside this vehicle you will have a bedroom, a bathroom, a kitchen as well as a living room. The RVs are usually known by some other names in other countries. One of the most common names of this vehicle is caravan.

The size of the vehicle might vary from one place to another and one company to the other. If you want to get such a luxury home on the go then you need to spend quite a lot of money. It is will be quite heavy for your pockets.

But people who have the means and are in need of this kind of vehicle should always look for the best company which can offer them this vehicle. Choosing the right company for buying this vehicle is very important. You must also ensure that these companies can help you with the RV parts.

Sometimes you might either have to repair or change it. These companies can provide you with deals on both new as well as old RVs. Choosing the size of the recreational vehicle are also important.

You need to choose the size according to the number of people who are going to stay inside. These companies offer various models with variety of colors and names. There are vehicles which can fit only two persons while there are some which can take up to 10 people.

Bigger vehicles usually cost more and they have more amenities. These vehicles are usually required for vacations as well as camping. Some people even use it for full time living. Some people who need to travel a lot make this their permanent homes.

Even if you do not buy this vehicle you can rent it for a few days. The companies which sell also offer the vehicle on rent. If you are interested then you need to contact these companies and check out the pictures, features and the price.

Get Better Gas Mileage For Your Truck

Whether you drive a pickup or a semi, in a world of rising fuel prices, getting better gas mileage for your truck has to be a priority. Trucks are designed for haulage and cargo capacity rather than fuel economy, so with mileages of 15 mpg (for pickups) or 5-6 mpg (for semis) or less, driving can become a costly affair. Thankfully, since the invention of the HHO fuel cell, there is another way.

HHO is an ideal solution for truck drivers. When funnelled into the intake manifold, this clean-burning gas has been known to more than double a vehicle's standard mileage. And the beauty of HHO is that it is created from water. Electricity drawn from the battery is passed through electrodes submerged in water, causing electrolysis. During electrolysis the water breaks down into hydrogen and oxygen molecules to form HHO.

With more battery power you can generate more HHO, which is another reason why this system is especially suited to trucks. Because trucks typically have two to four batteries, they can provide more electricity for electrolysis.

HHO gas delivers the power of hydrogen - which burns 10 times faster than gasoline - as well as the benefits of 34% oxygen, which causes gasoline to burn faster and cleaner. The fact is that only around 20-30% of the gas in your tank is normally combusted for fuel - the rest converts into soot that cakes your engine or pollution that goes out your exhaust! But when HHO enters the cycle, it shortens the burn time of gasoline and increases flame speed and cylinder pressure, resulting in far more efficient combustion.

Not only can this enhanced combustion increase your mileage by 20-50%, it can provide a good deal more horsepower - something that you will notice when pulling heavy loads or climbing steep hills. It also substantially reduces carbon emissions, which are subject to strict regulations.

You'd expect something so powerful to be expensive, but relative to what you can save on your gas bill, an HHO fuel cell is actually quite cheap to make and install. You should be able to buy HHO plans for less than $100 and parts for less than $250. And once you've installed your kit, the biggest ongoing expenses of creating HHO will be water - less than a gallon a month - and electrolyte solution! (Of course, you'll still need to buy some gas, though less often than before).

When it comes to doing what is best for your wallet, your truck, and your environment, there is nothing that can compete with HHO gas technology. You can stop worrying about carbon emissions or the amount of gasoline your vehicle guzzles every day. By converting to HHO you will get better gas mileage for your truck and reduce your carbon footprint as well.

Ford EcoBoost Engine Family

Since the launch of Ford's EcoBoost family, demand for the engine has increased every month; and not just for current Ford owners. Customers who had not previously considered Ford vehicles are now attracted to the fuel-friendly engine family. And it's not hard to see why.

In a Ford F-150, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine produces 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque and provides a best-in-class towing capability of 11,300 pounds, all while increasing fuel economy savings by 20% and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions by 15%. In fact, the 2011 F-150 EcoBoost has an EPA estimated rating of 22 MPG highway, which combined with the power of the F-150, creates the best combination of efficiency and capability among all light duty, full-size pickup trucks. This may explain why 40% of all EcoBoost engine options are sold on the popular truck.

The F-150 is not the only Ford vehicle that can be equipped with an EcoBoost engine. It is also currently available in the Ford Flex, Taurus SHO, and several Lincoln vehicles. Later this year, the engine family will be offered on the Explorer SUV and Edge CUV, followed by a Focus ST option in 2012. The optional EcoBoost on these cars will be a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter 237 horsepower engine, slightly less powerful than that of the F-150, but with even greater fuel efficiency. By 2013, Ford aims to produce 1.5 million EcoBoost engines around the world, in vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

The newly redesigned 2013 Ford Taurus, which was recently unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, will bring about the next level of EcoBoost. The sedan is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel efficiency, with an EPA estimated 31 MPG highway. Currently, EcoBoost engines have also increased the fuel economy of the Taurus SHO, which receives 25 MPG highway when powered by the 3.5-liter V6 version. The engine has helped increase the perceived value of the Taurus SHO as well, adding it to the list of cars considered by many who are shopping in the luxury market. In fact, 28% of SHO buyers traded in a luxury brand vehicle for the car.

With gas prices on the rise, drivers are looking for ways to save, and Ford has stepped up to the plate. The EcoBoost may be just one small part of Ford's plan to create fuel efficient and environmentally friendly cars, but it has made a large impact on consumers.

Enkei Wheels

The Enkei RPF1 is one of the most demanded and popular wheels in the racing industry. In 1986 Enkei became actively involved in motorsports by supplying 3-piece wheels to the F1 team, Minardi. In 1995 Enkei became an official supplier for team McLaren, which took championships home in 1998 and 1999. This team won four consecutive championships from 1996 to 1999. In racing there are no compromises and the passion to maximize performance is never ending. Enkei's involvement at the highest levels of competition enables engineers to apply their technology to the ultimate test.

The Enkei RPF1 wheels have been developed from Grand Prix experience and feature light weight with extreme strength combined for a street and circuit wheel of the highest quality. Enkei has also developed a new manufacturing process to produce the next generation aluminum wheels. The Most Advanced Technology (M.A.T) combines one-piece cast wheel technology with a rim forming technology called spinning process. Using this new technology of casting and rim forming by M.A.T process, the material property and strength of the wheels is improved drastically. Rim-Rolled technology shapes the rim to improve material elongation without sacrificing the wheels hardness.

Direct to the racetrack to the street, M.A.T. Technology features forged processes at a lower cost. Enkei also supplies enkei wheels to teams that race in the Japan GT Championship, Super Taikyu, Formula Drift, Time Attack/Super Lap Battle, World Rally, SCCA, and D1 Drift. Enkei RPF1 Wheel Features:

1. Mat Process: Shaping by the MAT process reduces wheel weight by 10%-15%. Every pound of unsprung weight savings has the effect of reducing overall vehicle weight by 20lbs.

2. F1 Replica: Enkei is an official supplier of the McLaren Mercedes Formula One Team. The RPF1 was developed using the same technology as the Formula One race wheel.

3. Twin Spokes: Enkei's dual open stance spoke design is used on the McLaren Mercedes Formula One race wheel. The twin spokes achieve better stress dispersion on curves, hard braking, and extreme race driving.

4. Centre Design: Enkei's pocket design on the bolt a circle increases rigidity and keeps the wheel cooler during aggressive race driving.

Enkei established its own test standard called "Spec-E," which is tougher than JWL requirements. Enkei's Spec-E test setting requires a higher drop point in the impact test and 20% more cycles for the rotary bending fatigue and dynamic radial fatigue tests than JWL standards. The Spec-E represents Enkei's confidence in its technology and quality of Enkei wheels.

Electric Motor Repairs

Today, the industrial work uses various types of electric motors such as AC and DC motors, break motors, and other types of motors used for different purposes in their company. There is, however, a time in all machines and motors wherein they will stop working or need repairs. You then need to choose whether you will have electric motor repairs or replace them with new ones.

As the business manager or proprietor, you need to make wise business decisions to keep all your business operations running smoothly. Decisions which can affect the performance of production should be thoroughly thought of before calling an action. When one of your major motors suddenly stops working, you might need to call a company which specializes in electric motor rewinds, or just buy a new one; however, which one is the best decision?

Reputable companies which concentrate on electric motor repairs are your go-to people when you need instant repair on your motors. Having it repaired, instead of purchasing a new motor, will require less time as repair companies can come and have a check on your motor 24/7. There are many repair companies which have cranes and special lifts to repair heavy and large motors.

Buying a new motor, in hand, could cost you more; however, you are assured of having an optimum level of performance once again because it is brand new. When thinking of buying a whole new motor, you have to realise the difference of costs when you repair it or replace it, and what are the savings you can get from both. Do not forget to add up the installation and running costs to get a comprehensive idea of your total expenditures.

In order to have a fast and economical solution to a broken motor, look for repair shops that can offer electric motor rewinds. Rewinds, however, can cause a decrease in the optimum level of efficiency of a motor. This is why it is important that you, as a motor repair customer, work personally with your chosen electric motor shop. You have to ensure that the rewind they are going to do on your motor will not reduce the efficiency and reliability of your motor. Having a motor repaired to work as "good as new" requires extensive motor rewind repair.

Companies who offer and specialize in electric motor rewinds need to have various capabilities and assets. For quality repairs, they will need to have qualified and experienced riggers who can conduct various services for in-house and on-site jobs. They should have quality equipment to ensure repairs are done correctly. Find an electric motor repair shop with equipment, services, and guarantees to ensure that your motors are repaired to your expectations.

Efficiency in your business operations and cost-effective solutions to your problems will give you savings and continuous production time. To ensure the efficiency of your motors, do not rely mainly on repair shops. Integrate a regular maintenance program for your motors to ensure their optimum working levels and prevent future replacements. Electric motor repairs done by a reputable and reliable repair company can help your business run efficiently at all times.

EcoBoost

In 2009 Ford made huge waves in the auto world with the release of its new EcoBoost engines that combined unparalleled fuel efficiency with the horsepower of engines much larger than it. Instantly a hit when put in the Lincoln MKT, Taurus SHO, Lincoln MKS, and Ford Flex, it has since been added to the best selling Ford F-150 and in the month of April has accounted for over 35% of sales for the F-150, according to Ford. New order tracking shows that percentage increasing to 40% for the F-150 in upcoming months. In 2010 Ford sold over 560,000 F-150s and with the added interest in EcoBoost engines, sales are only going up for Ford. The 3.5 liter V6 provides top end power and torque usually only found in diesel engines providing 365 horsepower and 420lbs-ft of torque. This provides the best in class towing at 11,300lbs which is highly coveted among truck drivers and has the added boost of having top fuel economy at an EPA rated 22 mpg (highway). Ford recently showed the durability of the new F-150 engine by putting it through a harsh regimen meant to simulate 150,000 miles or 10 years worth of wear on the engines (usually the tear-down and rebuild phase for truck engines) and found the EcoBoost engine to still be within the working specifications.

For those who are more familiar with engines and cars you may be wondering how getting that horsepower at that fuel economy is possible? The answer is that this engine works to provide the best in class fuel economy and horsepower through a system that utilizes dual turbochargers and direct fuel injection into a naturally aspirated engine. Older port-fuel-injection models would spray fuel into an intake system before it was shot into the cylinders whereas the EcoBoost enters through the side of the cylinders. Fuel is sprayed with high pressure injectors past the high intensity spark plugs at 2150psi. That is 35 times higher than the pfi system. In layman's terms this means that a fuel mist is shot at a higher speed by the injectors directly into the cylinders of the engine and then uses atmospheric pressure and a partial vacuum to draw fuel in, making it more efficient with fuel consumption vs. into an intake system that pushes it into the cylinders. The dual turbochargers force more air into the cylinders allowing more fuel to be burned giving it that extra power while keeping the weight down.

In line with making the cars more fuel efficient while still maintaining horsepower Ford is offering the award winning Taurus SHO with a new 2.0 liter four cylinder engine. This gets a best in class fuel economy for full-sized sedans at 31mpg. For those of you worrying about performance never fear, this model still offers plenty of power at 237hp. People looking for more power can still purchase the award winning 3.5 liter V6 with 365hp. With a SelectShift 6 speed automatic transmission and 4 wheel drive this car provides peak performance at an efficient 25mpg (highway). The Taurus SHO is bringing in the new buyers as well with 57% of trade in cars being non-Ford. The new powerful EcoBoost engine is also attracting the younger (age 35-55), more affluent, male population than Ford has in the past with buyers of the Taurus SHO being an average of 7 years younger and having a household income of 4% higher than that of just normal Taurus buyers. This is a key development for Ford as they have being trying to target this market segment as they have been failing to draw this valuable market segment in the past. In an effort to get more of this market Ford plans on offering the EcoBoost engine in the Ford Edge, Explorer, Focus ST, C-MAX by 2012 and plans to produce 1.5million engines for those products.