Cleaner Cars from Volvo

Environment consciousness in the global community is growing as a result of unrelenting campaign of environmentalist for the people to protect Mother Earth. In connection with this, car manufactures are in a position to help alleviate the problem with pollution, one of the primary reasons of which is the emission from vehicles.

Different companies have been developing ways to decrease the emission of their cars and at the same time lower fuel consumption. Lowering the amount of fossil fuel based products consumed by automobiles will greatly help in preserving the worlds fossil fuel reserve. Car manufacturers, most notably Toyota and Honda, have come up with hybrid vehicles which use electricity to power their car but the fuel savings is not nearly enough to protect our natural reserves of fossil fuel.

Volvo has come up with a way to help in the protection of the environment by using alternative fuel on some of their car models. FlexiFuel models are now being produced by the Sweden-based car manufacturer. These are the Volvo C30, S40, and the V50 models. These cars use an alternative fuel called E85 which is a combination of ethanol and petrol. The combination of which is 85 per cent bio-ethanol and 15 per cent gasoline. Use of the E85 alternative fuel reduces emissions of fossil carbon dioxide which is harmful to the environment by as much as 80 per cent compared to cars using gasoline only.

The models equipped with the FlexiFuel technology are equipped with a four-cylinder engine which can produce 125 horsepower. The usage of the alternative fuel does no harm to the engines performance. The bio-ethanol and gasoline combination is stored on the models 55 liter tank. To accommodate the corrosive properties of ethanol, changes have to be made to the engines construction. Fuel hoses, valves, and gaskets have been modified and fortified to take on the corrosive nature of ethanol. Injection valves have also been modified and made larger since a larger amount of fuel needs to be injected to the combustion chamber. This is due to the fact that ethanol has a lower energy content compared to pure gasoline. Aside from these changes, the engine is basically the same just like the Volvo spark plug wires which will not be affected by the corrosive nature of the fuel.

The development of the technology is just a small step but a significant one in terms of protecting our environment for future generations. Since ethanol is a renewable source of energy, the use of it as a fuel will decrease the worlds dependency on the fossil fuel reserves all over the world. Ethanol can be produced from a wide range of biomass source such as corn, wheat, sugar-beet and cellulose among others. And with increasing number of facilities that produce ethanol, the technology developed by Volvo may soon be used all over the world. Aside from using ethanol as fuel, there are also a range of renewable energy resources that are waiting to be enhanced for possible use as duel for automobiles.

A Worthy Choice: Saturns First Midsize SUV

The crossover segment has become hot recently and the automakers have outed several new models to keep up with the pace. Since there is a wide variety of models and makes to choose from, sometimes consumers now find themselves quite confused on which model to buy. Some models coming up include the 2007 Saturn Outlook and its close rival and near clone, the GMC Acadia. Along with the 2008 Buick Enclave (which arrived in the spring) and an upcoming Chevrolet version, the Saturn and GMC models will be replacing GMs entire lineup of conventional truck-based midsize SUVs, including Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy and Buick Rainier.

Last year was the first time that the sales on crossovers were able to outsell those of the truck-based SUVs. And, the vehicles among the segment rapidly gained the interest of the customers from both urban and suburban American community. Auto makers foresee that this trend will continue to flourish this year; thats why they are now setting aside plans for the likes of the Ford Explorer, the Dodge Durango and other GM models.

Customers are shifting to crossovers because it offers better fuel economy much more than the truck-based SUVs. Fuel economy has become a priority for custmers what with the soaring and unstable gasoline prices.

The Saturn Outlook and Vue, of which basically focused on the Saturn Outlook XR front-wheel-drive version and priced $29,555 plus $735 freight, provided the Saturn dealers their first midsize SUV. Setting the crossover as a priority more than the aging TrailBlazer platform, Saturn is said to be far more looking to the future.

As with the Outlook and Acadia, these models are closely compared since they are made on the same architecture and assembly line. However, they have their own uniqueness when it comes to styling cues and interior packages and it is where they are differentiated. Both the models are equipped with GMs 3.6 L V6 engine with variable valve timing. Such engine has been designed to provide optimum fuel economy as well as low emissions and exceptional smoothness.

For the Outlook, two configurations of its engine are held available: The entry-level XE model (base price &27,255 plus freight) comes with a single exhaust outlet, as what has been mentioned in seattlepi.com. Such engine could produce 263 hp and 244 ft-lb of torque.

When the XR was tested, the engine ratings climbed to 267 hp and 247 ft-lb of torque as a second exhaust outlet has been added. This makes the model same as with the Acadia. And, both have an engine that connects to a six-speed automatic transmission and both also offer either front- or all-wheel drive.

The XR version of the Outlook model has a starting price of $31,555, about $2,000 greater than the XE model with all-wheel drive.

Enhanced stability has been provided for the Outlook and Acadia as both have a long wheelbase with wide tracks. Both also come with a front suspension, including MacPherson struts, a stabilizer bar and aluminum steering knuckles. And, on the rear, a compact, linked H suspension design is significant.

Aside from being equipped with premium Saturn catalytic converter, the standard features provided for the Outlook and Acadia include power rack-and-pinion steering, GMs StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with anti-rollover technology, traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and OnStar navigation/communications system.

Safety features have also been provided. It includes tire-pressure monitoring system and six standard air bags (two dual-stage frontal air bags, two seat-mounted side-impact air bags in the first row and two roof rail air bags covering all three rows of seating).

Both Outlook and Acadia can tow trailers weighing a maximum of 4,500 lbs, when optionally equipped with towing package.

On the inside, adjustable seats have been provided along with the roomy space for the convenience of passengers together with children for the third row. They make a total of 177 cubic feet cabin space.

A convenience package is offered for XR model which provides additional standard items such as power tailgate, rear park assist, remote start, heated wiper fluid and a 155-volt power outlet.

All characteristics hold the GM models highly competitive as a rival for the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot.

The Ten Priciest Cars Today

For most car buyers looking for the perfect car, their wish to get that vehicle that they are eyeing is often compromised by the lack of funds. It is, of course, hard to choose between paying for a house and buying a new car. While this predicament has been experienced by most car buyers, we are always dreaming to own that one perfect car that would have been ours if not for the price.

Most car manufacturers produce vehicles which come with price tags that are within the reach of more people. This means more cars will be bought thus an increased profit is expected. But there are those who cater to the automobile needs of the rich and the privileged. Car companies like Ferrari, Porsche and Bugatti produces cars that will never be within the reach of the common car buyer. Nevertheless, as we daydream about our perfect car, it is necessary that we know their price just so that we can dream realistically on how much money we will have to spend on, say, a Bugatti Veyron.

The Bugatti Veyron is currently the priciest production car and also holds the distinction of being the fastest production car in the world. The sleek and power packed Veyron is estimated to have a price tag in the range of $ 1,700,000. That much money can give you the privilege to sit behind the wheel of the most powerful, most expensive and the fastest production and street legal car. And by doing that, you would be able to command the attention of motorists and pedestrians alike.

The Veyron is capable of reaching speeds of 407 kilometers per hour or 253 miles per hour. While most owners of the Veyron may not have the chance to reach that speed, the looks of the Veyron is enough to call the attention of anyone. The car is built by the German car manufacturer Volkswagen AG under the Bugatti brand and is named after race driver Pierre Veyron who won the Le Mans in 1939. The cars engine is a W16 or two V8s strapped together in a W configuration. According to the manufacturer of the Veyron, the final production engine which will be used by the Veyron will be able to produce as much as 1001 horsepower.

The second most expensive car in the world is the iconic Ferrari Enzo which is priced at $1,000,000. The Enzo as it is called is named after the founder of the famous Italian sports car manufacturer. The car came into production in 2003 and became an instant icon. Its body design comes using Formula 1 design cues and this makes the Enzo one of the most recognizable sports cars. Ferrari used carbon fiber materials for the body of this supercar.

The exterior design and material is not the only thing that the Enzo shares with F1 cars but also the sequential shift transmission and the carbon-ceramic brake discs which shadows the efficiency of brake parts available at Active Brakes Direct. The car also uses technologies which F1 cars are not allowed to have. One of this is active aerodynamics which means a dynamic rear spoiler for the Enzo.

The third most expensive car in the world is the Pagani Zonda C12 F that is priced at $741,000. This relatively unknown brand outside performance enthusiasts unveiled the Zonda C12 F at the 2005 Geneva International Auto Show. The car uses a humungous 7.3-liter V12 unit capable of producing as much as 594 horsepower. A special model for the Zonda is equipped with an engine capable of producing 641 horsepower. The cars acceleration is superb needing only 3.2 seconds to reach speed of 60 miles per hour from a standstill. Its top speed is rated at 225 miles per hour or 374 kilometers per hour.

The fourth most expensive car today is the Koenigsegg CCX with a price tag of $600,910. CCX is an abbreviation for Competition Coupe X with the X commemorating the tenth anniversary of the first CC vehicle. The car is built for the United States and is designed to meet the standards for an automobile in the United States. The car derives its power from a 4700 cubic cm double overhead cam 32-valve V8 engine. This powerplant is able to generate as much as 806 horsepower and 687 lb-ft of torque. That much power alone makes the CCX worth all that money. Its sleek styling and aggressive stance instantly commands attention.

The fifth most expensive car today is the legendary Porsche Carrera GT - priced at $484,000. The car comes from the German car manufacturer known for producing some of the most powerful cars in the world. According to some tests, the Carrera GT is the sixth fastest production car today completing the 0-100-0 test in just 11.6 seconds. The 0-100-0 means that the car will start at a stationary position and reach speed of 100 kilometers per hour and has to once again come to a stop. The time it takes for a car to complete the test is one of the basis for naming the worlds fastest cars. The Carrera GT is equipped with a 5.7 liter V10 engine that is very much capable of producing 612 horsepower.

The sixth most expensive car today is the Mercedes SLR McLaren with a price tag of $455,000. The car is the fruition of the joint venture of DaimlerChrysler AG and McLaren Cars. The power of this car comes from a supercharged 5.5-liter V8 engine rated to produce 626 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque. While it is dubbed as a supercar, it has the attributes of a Super Grand Tourer which makes it the direct competitor of the Pagani Zonda, Ford GT, Porsche Carrera GT, Aston Martin V12 Vanquish and the Lamborghini Murcielago.

The seventh most expensive car today is the Maybach 62 priced at $385,250. The 62 is one of Maybachs first car models since the brand was revived by DaimlerChrysler. The car is derived from the Mercedes-Benz Maybach concept vehicle that was unveiled ten years ago at the Tokyo Motorshow. The Maybach is re-introduced to the auto market in 2002 as DaimlerChryslers answer to the Rolls-Royce/Bentley marque.

The 62s sibling is the Maybach 57. The 57 and 62 indicates the difference in the length of the two models. The engine of the 57 and the 62 is a Mercedes 5.5-liter twin-turbo V12 engine capable of producing 550 horsepower.

The eighth most expensive car is the Rolls-Royce Phantom with a price of $320,000. The marque is now under the BMW group and the Phantom is first introduced in the market in 2003. The power of the Phantom comes from 6.8-liter 48-valve V12 engine with an output of 453 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque. While the car is not as fast as the rest of the most expensive cars today, it exhibits the best in luxury as per its interior.

The ninth most expensive car today is Lamborghinis flagship model Murcielago which comes at $279,900. While its smaller brother, the Gallardo is faster, eth Murcielago is more expensive. It combines the attributes of a super car and a Grand Tourer. This car takes the place of the legendary Diablo in Lamborghinis lineup in 2002. The Murcielagos engine is a 6.5-liter one capable of producing 640 horsepower.

The tenth most expensive car is the Aston Martin Vanquish with a price tag of $255,000 and the reputation of being James Bonds favorite car. The Vanquish made an appearance in the film Die Another Day. The Grand Tourer is first introduced to the market in 2001 and quickly became a favorite among performance car enthusiasts. The power of the Vanquish comes from a 5.-liter 48-valve V12 engine capable of initially producing 460 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Recent improvements though have added power to the Vanquishs engine raising it to 520 horsepower and 426 lb-ft of torque.

The 2007 Volvo S80 at Par with the Best in Its Class

February of this year will signal the introduction to the market of the newest luxury sedan from the worlds leader in automotive safety - Volvo. The luxury vehicle is the 2007 version of the companys best selling Volvo S80. The car, just like its predecessor, promises to give the best safety features available in any vehicle out there. Along with that, the vehicle also is expected to come bearing the high quality of performance that can be expected from a Volvo. The Volvo S80 will be up against some tough competition like the Audi S6, the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The competition may be tough but the car packs a really great performance and an even luxurious interior so as to be a serious competitor in their class.

The interior design of the car shows off the Scandinavian luxury design concept which shows the companys loyalty to its roots. The entire concept is based on the simplicity and functionality of the interior which in reality gives the interior a very luxurious feel that only Volvo can offer. The wood grain strip paneling looks immaculate and very much in tune with the rest of the interior. Controls and handles inside the vehicle are designed to be attractive yet also very functional. One such design is the functional graphic which can be found at the center of the climate controls that allows the occupant to choose the direction of airflow through its stylized head, torso and legs.

Buyers can opt for the trim package which includes a V8 engine for the Volvo S80. Such an option allows the company to be capable to drive the car against the best in its class. The quad-cam, 32-valve, 4.4-liter V8 engine can churn out 311 units of horsepower. The powerplant transfers the power of those 311 horses to all the four wheels of the car for this car has an all-wheel drive configuration. The configuration gives the car a better traction especially during nasty bouts of weather. The power finds their way to the wheels via a six speed automatic transmission that provides a smooth transfer of gear ratios and can thus give the car a decent acceleration. The precise engineering of the gearbox allows the car to go from a standstill to 60 miles per hour in just 6.5 seconds. The cars engine is also equipped with a Volvo oxygen sensor to increase its fuel efficiency by keeping the air and fuel mixture at the standard combination.

Safety features are abundant in the car - after all, it comes from Volvo which is known the world over in their effort to provide safety for their cars users. It employs the Whiplash Protection System of the company which allows the seat to move back with the occupant to absorb much of the energy in cases of rear collisions.

Aside from the standard airbags, which are the most advanced being employed by any car in the market, there are a lot more of the safety features that Volvo is known for. Take for instance, the blindspot warning device which is a set of cameras that alerts the driver if any vehicle has entered his blindspot. The car also has swiveling headlights which can enable the driver to see better when turning.

The car itself is designed to react during a collision so as to protect the passengers and the driver inside - it is made up of four different grades of strength of steel used in different zones that have different reactions during crashes. To protect the vehicle, it has a personal safety system that allows the owner to check from afar if the doors are locked or unlocked and can even detect the presence of a person inside the car by sensing the persons heartbeat.

MotorWeeks 2007 Drivers Choice Awards

MotorWeek has recently announced the results of their Drivers Choice Awards and here is the complete list:

Best of the Year Honda Fit
This cute edgy 5-door subcompact delivers big on all levels. The front-wheel-drive Fit is powered by 1.5 liter single overhead-cam 4 cylinder with variable-valve timing and lift control. It revs up a reasonable 109 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque. Both the manual and automatic transaxles are 5-speeds, with paddle shifters included in the uplevel S trim. It is also equipped with safety features like safety front, ABS brakes, and front-side-impact and side curtain airbags. Its other features include standard air, CD stereo, and power windows and locks. Fit is priced at under $15,000.

Best Small Car Honda Fit

Best Family Sedan Saturn Aura
The Saturn aura is derived from the Opel concept combines with the solid reputation of the Saturn brand with some added capabilities. It has an upscale look, a long list of standard features including curtain airbags, V6 power at a 4-cylinder price, a hybrid option, and 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.

Best Minnivan Hyundai Entourage and Kia Sedona
These two Korean branded designs were able to match all the outstanding features of other brands in the same segment. They were able to defeat their competitors in terms of price and powertrain warranty. In terms of school bus and apartment moving, minivans are still the most versatile vehicles worldwide and this is exactly where these two brands lead.

Best Convertible Volkswagen Eos
The convertibles 5-piece retractable hardtop allows this open four-seater to double as a four-season coupe. The large glass sunroof panel makes sure that sun always rises. Add to that the firm driving experience that is typical to all Volkswagen with standard turbo 4 power and a base price that is under 30k makes the Eos a must have.

Best Luxury Sedan Lexus LS
The LS is equipped with high-end technology starting from radar cruise control to self-park. Even the long wheelbase edition has powers that its German rivals can appreciate throw in an upcoming V8 hybrid and the new LS move a notch higher.

Best Sport Sedan Infiniti G35
The second-generation Infiniti G35 is an outstanding backroads performer. It obtains a close to perfect balance between ride and handling, rear drive power and economy, and drivers cockpit and comfort. The G35 is a very gorgeous car even when its not moving. It is equipped with a powerful V6 engine and available in all-wheel drive.

Best Performance Car Ford Shelby GT500
Carroll Shelby combines a revving supercharged 500 horsepower V8, and near-race-car-quality prowess with added sophistication.

Best Small Utility Honda CR-V
This is third award given to Honda. The CR-V is a no fuss vehicle and does what a small utility should do but only better.

Best Large Utility- Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon
The Tahoe and Yukon possess contemporary styling, excellent fit and finish, luxury car-like interior, and segment-leading fuel economy which exude GMs new design direction. Its features range from quick-fold seats to three-row curtain airbags plus other features that customers want in a ute. GM will release a hybrid version of both the Tahoe and Yukon later this year.

Best Crossover Utility GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook
Although these 7 and 8 passenger crossovers lack in rugged looks but their efficiency, comfort, and safety makes up for what they lack. Their all-wheel-drive and standard OnStar adds up to its performance. The Acadia and Outlook offer driving security regardless of the road condition and the weather.

Best Pickup Truck Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra
The Silverado and Sierra both have added style, flexibility, class-leading economy, and perceived quality plus capabilities. From its interiors which are perfectly fitted to owners, to its wide-swinging rear doors, sturdy GM bed rail and cargo management, the Silverado and Sierra are the perfect vehicles for those individuals who just love rugged outdoor adventures.

Best Eco-Friendly Toyota Motor Corporation
MotorWeek has not only chosen one car but the entire ToMoCo was awarded as Drivers Choice Best Eco-Friendly of the Year. The award was given to honor the company that has brought the fuel-saving gasoline electric hybrid technology in the world that has pushed other carmakers to follow suit.

Best Dream Machine Jaguar XKR, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano and Porsche 911 Turbo
Leading the trio of the most desired machine is Jaguar XKR. This Ford feline is capable of producing 420 horsepower and exudes elegance and perfect details which is considered to be the hallmark of the brands posh sedans. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano on the other hand is equipped with a rarified V12 engine producing 611 horsepower. It possesses GT styling and performance at its best. The last but not the least is the latest Porsche 911 Turbo which is equipped with a 480 twin-turbo horses that can produce tremendous power but still delivers a down-to-earth feel.

More Customers Opting For Alternative Fuel Cars

The prices of gas and fuel have already gone down but it seems like the market has already learned much during that experience. You see, according to dealers and retailers as well as manufacturers of vehicles in the auto market, more and more American customers are purchasing cars and vehicles that run on alternative fuel. The list of alternative fuel vehicles include those hybrid vehicles as well as those that could run on diesel and ethanol.

According to Fred Webber, the current president and chief executive of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, Our priority is to get the word out that alternative fuel autos are on sale now, and these vehicles are the quickest way to reduce gasoline use. No one wants to see high gas prices and concerns about energy security, but the good news about todays energy situation is that more Americans are purchasing one of the many fuel efficient automobiles on sale today. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is actually an organization that represents nine of the automakers which sell their products around the globe as well as in the United States.

Sure enough, more and more people are opting to own one unit of these alternative fuel vehicles. One thing is that they would be getting much on savings. Fuel prices may have gone down but the alternative sources of energy for a vehicle to run do cost much, much less. Plus, maintaining them is not that difficult for many replacements parts for these alternative vehicles are readily available in the market along with other partslike Pontiac performance parts. The auto world is now opening up their arms to these alternative fuel vehicles so much so that keeping them in good condition now becomes an easy and economical task.

Webber even further adds, Every model of auto is available today with some kind of fuel efficient technology, such as variable valve timing, continuously variable transmissions, and cylinder deactivation. We urge all consumers to check out these fuel efficient options on dealers lots today. The list of fuel efficient vehicles in the market includes hybrids like the Honda Insight, the Toyota Prius, the Ford Escape Hybrid, and the Toyota Sienna Hybrid.

What You Need To Know About Auto Air Intake

The colder the air drawn into the air, the denser it will become. The denser the air, the greater the oxygen content is. Oxygen is the primary element that helps burn fuel. Therefore, the colder the air, the greater the vehicle power is. Indeed, the significance of the auto air intake cannot be overstated. However, there is still a great number of car owners who are still entertaining cobwebs at the back of their head.

To wipe away confusions and misconceptions, salient and factual points should be emphasized. Here are top queries regarding air intake:

1. What should one use in case of an engine swap?
There are several intake systems that are designed to accommodate engine swaps. The AEM air cold intake V2, for instance, could accommodate popular engine swaps. The popular swaps include those for Honda and Acura vehicles. These intakes are fully warranted and guarantees direct fit. However, for other cars engine swap is not recommended because it could not guarantee proper fit of the intake system and the manufacturer could void the warranty given.

2. How important is soft mount? What does it do?
Majority of auto air intake system designs mount to a vehicle in two locations to the engine at the throttle body and the filter end of the inlet pipe. Soft mount offers a flexible link for the inlet pipe between the engine and the cars body. If soft mount is not properly installed the inlet tube may break at the bracket weld and may void the warranty of the car system.

3. What is the warranty on the air intake system?
Basically, the air intake system is given a lifetime warranty. However, there are instances when the manufacturer voids the warranty due to some violations on the part of the purchaser. Most of air intake system manufacturers dishonor warranty due to mechanical damage like damage from accidents, misuse or flying debris. There are also some manufacturers that do not warrant powder coating if a hydrocarbon-based solvent was used to clean it. The system should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution no more, no less. In invoking the systems warranty it is necessary to bring along the proof of purchase of both the vehicle and the intake system.

The warranty is limited to repairs and replacements only. However, the warranty shall not exceed the original price of the systems part. The warranty is not transferable and it is only applicable to the original purchaser. Thus, subsequent purchasers can no longer avail of said warranty.

4. Can I use a bypass valve with the V2?
No. The induction system of the air intake utilizes a dual chamber to produce multiple frequency sound waves. The installation of the bypass valve would interrupt the tuning of the entire system. In addition, in some instances, the valve is impossible to install.

The AEM V2 air intake, for one, is designed to perform and look good. Moreover, they often feature exceptional design techniques. The manufacturer is continuously conducting research and testing on various materials, length and filtering to ensure excellent performance.

All-wheel Drive for Porsche 911 Targa

Porsche enthusiasts are excited about the new offer from Porsche. This offer is all about the permanent all-wheel drive given by the automaker to Porsche 911 Targa. The vehicle is now on sale.

All-wheel drive (AWD), otherwise called as four-wheel drive, 4x4, 4WD, is a term used to describe a 4-wheeled vehicle with a drivetrain that is capable of allowing all the four wheels to simultaneously get power from the engine. This feature is commonly associated with off-road vehicles nonetheless; all-wheel drive is crucial in providing better control on slippery ice and race tracks on paved streets.

The term is originally used to describe truck-like vehicles that necessitate switching between a 2-wheel drive mode for roads and a 4-wheel drive mode for low traction conditions like ice, gravel and mud. AWD is common for identical drivetrain systems that will be marketed for both the upmarket and downmarket branding. However, it is also common for different drivetrain systems that will be marketed under the same name for brand homogeny.

Porsche aficionados can now enjoy the fact that AWD is now made permanent for Targa. Aside from the AWD, Targa is equipped with lots of breath-taking Porsche car parts. Both Targa and 996 have common denominator and said feature contribute significantly to its "wow factor." The striking feature is the huge glass roof and opening rear window. The glass roof plus the rear window are capable of inviting light and fresh air when they are left opened. The glass roof can be opened by up to half a meter in a matter of 7 seconds. This can be done by employing 2 electric motors. According to the automaker, to fully open the roof, it would take about 0.45 square meters.

Porsche factory parts for the roof panel of Targa are built of 2-ply tinted glass, which is lighter by 1.9kg than its predecessor. The automaker has developed a sealing system that minimizes wind noise. Also, wind deflector reduces turbulence inside the car. Targa also allows open-air free-spirited driving when outside temperature is accommodating. Subsequently, the semi-translucent roller sunblind is used to provide shade in the interior of the car when the roof is closed. The roller blind and the glass roof can be maneuvered using a rocker switch.

Porsche 911 Targa is powered by 3.6-litre six cylinder 3.6-litre six-cylinder engine that delivers 239kW. The S variant, the most powerful among the variants, uses a 3.8-litre engine that produces a top speed of 355bhp. The car is also equipped with Porsche VarioCam Plus valve control system, Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), and other striking car features.

Nissan To Launch Diesel Full-Size Pickup In U.S.

The Nissan Motor Co. is preparing to launch a diesel-powered version of its Titan full-size pickup in the United States. The pickup is expected to be released by 2009.

Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun, a Japanese industrial daily, reported Friday that the Titans engine will be built by local truck and engine manufacturer Navistar International Corp. International Truck and Engine Corp., Navistar's principal operating company, is the exclusive supplier of diesel engines to Ford's Super Duty pickups. Navistar spokesman Roy Wiley would not verify or deny the report, but the company has been working to sell its medium-duty diesel engines to other automakers.

To note, the third largest Japanese automaker, held 44 percent by Renault SA, has no diesel product line in America. The decision of the automaker is anchored on the growing demand for fuel-efficient powertrain. The powertrain is usually integrated to commercial vehicles like large pickup trucks. Hence, the Japanese automaker is introducing the diesel-powered Titan to meet the needs of Americans at the same time to promote cleaner environment. Meanwhile, a spokeswoman at Nissan said that the company could not comment on future product plans.

The Japanese automaker launched the Titan, its first and only full-size pickup, in 2004 hoping to find a niche in the lucrative segment. Unfortunately, sales have failed to live up to the companys expectations. Last month, the automaker sold 4,899 Titans and that number is down by 18 percent from the year before. So far this year, sales dropped 15 percent at 28,668 units. As of March, the heavy duty version of the Titan has been put on hold.

The 2008 Titan model will add an optional seven-foot long bed to the crew cab and an optional eight-foot long bed to the king cab. The king cab Titan with the long bed will come with a larger 37-gallon fuel tank. The five-speed transmission and 5.6L V8 will remain standard equipment on all Titans.

The pickup went on sale in April. Since its launch in the segment, the Titan has been facing stiffer competition from the Toyota Motor Corp.'s remodeled Tundra, which the automaker has called its most important product launch to date. Toyota has hinted that it would eventually offer a gasoline-electric hybrid version of the Tundra.

The Titan comes in three basic trim levels: the XE, SE, and the LE. The Titan features the refined Nissan radiator, navigation system, DVD player with screen, side airbags, off-road package, traction control, sunroof, big tow package with transmission temperature gauge, Sirius satellite radio, XM satellite radio, leather split power bench seat, utili-Track bed rail system, lockable bedside, storage box, power adjustable pedals, automatic windows down with key fob, and the sophisticated 32 valve 5.6 L VK56DE V8 engine that produces 305 horsepower and 379 pound feet of torque at 3600 rpm.

The U.S. pickup market is dominated by the Ford Motor Co.'s F-Series and General Motors Corp.'s Chevy Silverado, the two best-selling vehicles around the globe. Now, foreign automakers are trying to invade the lucrative segment to steal a hefty slice of the realm.

Nissan is due to launch a diesel version of its Maxima in the U.S. in 2010. The engines of the sedan will be produced by Renault. The current Maxima features the standard Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) which is likened to that of the Nissan Murano, a freshened grill that resembles Altimas, and more rounded headlights. The Maxima engine has internal chains for the twin overhead cams. This eliminates the need for regular timing belt replacement.

In other markets, the Maxima is also known as the Cefiro or the Laurel. The sedan's direct rivals are the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata or Hyundai Azera, Chevrolet Impala and the Ford Five Hundred.

Taking Care of your Volkswagen

The cooling system of your Volkswagen vehicle is an important part in order to keep your vehicle operating efficiently. The cooling system maintains the right temperature of your engine through the circulation of coolant through the engine that picks up heat and passing it through the radiator where it is cooled with air. The coolant in turn passes through a thermostat valve to control flow and through a temperature sensor which controls external air cooling fans.

Volkswagen vehicle cooling systems are comprised of three main parts and these are the VW water pump, VW hoses and VW thermostat, radiator and sensors.

Volkswagen Water Pump
The VW water pump handles the VWs cooling systems pumping function which keeps the coolant mixture moving. The basic VW water pump is gear or belt-driven there are also some cases in other cars wherein a secondary electric water pump is used to improved cooling and flow of the coolant mixture. One of the most important parts of the pumps operation is the drive belt which is also known on most new cars as the timing belt. However, on older car models, the pump and the belt are external and run off the main crankshaft pulley using a V of flat belt.

The maintenance of VW water pump is done simultaneous with the replacement of the coolant, the drive belt and tension adjustment (external type). The timing belt driven pumps should always be done when replacing the timing belt and tensioner.

Volkswagen Hoses
The VW cooling system involves various hoses which includes the Volkswagen radiator hose, control valves, the heater core and the expansion tank. And since these materials are constantly used and are exposed to heated coolant, these parts deteriorate easily and needs to be change more often.

The maintenance of cooling system piping consists of scheduled replacement of all hoses, replacement of coolant plus the replacement of any unplugged or leaking parts. It is a good idea to have all hoses checked at least twice a year to see whether there are abrasions, flexibility, cracks, and leakage. And of course it is vital that whenever coolant is flushed for replacement or even during engine repairs that hoses should be replaced. Radiator hoses, expansion tanks, heater cores, and control valves are commonly replaced due to leakage or plugging. However it is important that a VW professional should be the one contacted to assess the condition of these parts since they know everything there is to know about Volkswagen components.

Volkswagen Radiator, Thermostat and Sensors
Volkswagens cooling systems temperature controls include all coolant temperature sensors, radiator or expansion tank cap, thermostat, cooling fan(s) and fan clutch. These cooling parts function independently of the engine but maintain the control over the engine cooling which is made by means of sending control signals to the VWs electronic systems.

The spring loaded valve that opens and closes based on the temperature of the coolant flowing through it is called the thermostat. You can tell that something is wrong with your thermostat when you see a high temperature reading is followed by a drop to normal temperature or a continuously low temperature---this normally indicates a sticking thermostat. Unfortunately, there are other conditions that caused these symptoms and if you are not sure what causing it then better have a VW professional mechanic to check it.

The radiator or expansion tank cap is similarly a spring loaded valve that reacts to system pressure. Its function is to maintain proper system coolant level at predetermined pressures. It should always be replaced with an exact replacement cap with the same pressure setting to obtain optimum function.

A belt-driven fan blade that pulls air through the radiator is usually included on the water pump pulley with a fan clutch to control it. The fan clutch functioned by allowing the fan to turn with the belt at low engine speed and shift to free-wheel at higher speeds. A damage fan clutch should not be taken for granted since it may cause your vehicle to overheat.

An electric fan that can function by itself or with an auxiliary mechanical fan is usually equipped for front-wheel-drive Volkswagen. These two types of fans are controlled via a temperature sensor that is found on the radiator specifically on the upper radiator hose or on the thermostat or water pump housing. This sensor is usually an on/off type switch with a fixed temperature setting.

The other common temperature sensors that are found on Volkswagen vehicles include: gauge sender, warning light sender, lambda and/or fuel injection sensor/s and the thermo-time switch. Controlling the engine temperature is critical to obtain high performance and emission control. But unfortunately it is also the system that is one of the most difficult to fix getting a VW professional is highly advised.

On the other hand maintenance of your cooling system sensors is a no sweat task since there is nothing to maintain in the first place, all you have to do is to keep them clean internally and externally. Likewise, checking and replacing all parts at the set factory-recommended time or mileage limit also help to maintain the good running condition of your VW car.

General Motors Going Green to 2010

General Motors, worlds largest automaker and maker of quality auto parts like GM EGR valves, has recently announced its plans of producing a series of Hydrogen cars by 2010 as part of its strategy to push alternatives to conventional petrol.

During a presentation in Paul Springs, California, GMs chief engineer on the fuel cell project, Mohsen Shabana has stated that the hydrogen infrastructure would not be in place by then, but technicians are already working to make sure that car production is ready by 2010.

Meanwhile, GMs fuel cell concept vehicle, Sequel is using the third fuel cell generation which makes use of the lithium battery in storing braking energy. It is powered by an electric motor on the front axle and two wheel hub engines in the rear.

The new Sequel is able to travel 480 kilometers compared to its earlier model which can travel only 100 kilometers. The acceleration is also improved from 0 to 100km/h with time reduce from 20seconds down to 10 seconds. Top speed now stands at 145 km/h compared to the usual 100km/h.

The Sequel is purely a research vehicle of GM. The automaker has built only two units of this vehicle. To hasten the transition towards a hydrogen age, the automaker is planning to increase the test fleet to 100 vehicles and using the Chevrolet Equinox as its basis.

Ford has recently introduced a modified Ford Edge which is powered by a combination of compressed hydrogen and a plug-in battery pack that can be recharged with a standard home electrical cord.

It seems like General Motors is really serious about going green, as recently Iowa General Motors director of environment and energy programs Mary Beth Stanek said that the ethanol industry must strive to create higher blends of fuel. The announcement made at a biofuels forum is brought about by the desire of the automaker to increase production of flex-fuel vehicles.

Stanek also stressed that GM is committed to flex-fuel technology but also added that the automaker is very much open to the idea of developing an electric hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell technology. She said that the automaker has set a funding for research and development the only thing that is lacking is the corresponding support from the ethanol industry.

As answer to the points raised by Stanek, officials from the ethanol industry said that in order to make ethanol mainstream, there ought to be vehicles to burn it, infrastructure to make it and transport it. There is also a need for more technology to produce enough ethanol to meet demands.

YCC Volvos Tribute to Women

Looks like Volvo is becoming the Ladys Car after all.

In the United States it is estimated that 54% of all Volvo buyers are women, and same thing is happening in Europe there is also an increasing percentage of female customers purchasing Volvo.

To give tribute to their increasing number of female customers, Volvo Cars has implemented an all-woman team to head up the design and development of the YCC (Your Concept Car) a vehicle especially designed to meet the needs of the most demanding women customers particularly the professional ones.

According to Hans-Olov Olsson, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation, "This is a fantastic opportunity for us. We can concentrate on the fast-growing group of women customers without losing the men. Because I'm certain that our male customers will love this concept car."

The Volvo YCC was introduced at the Geneva International Motor Show. And as promised the YCC concept was equipped with a host of features designed for women. Volvo has also employed its Ergovision technology, a system which scanned the whole body to come up with data containing the relative proportions of the customer thereby guiding the customer on the perfect driving position which are stored in digital form on his or her personal key unit. This technology is quite amazing since once the personal key is dock on the center console, the seat, steering wheel, pedals, head restraint, and seatbelt automatically adjust to suit the drivers individual built. The drivers heel rest was also designed to be fully adjustable allowing variations in the height of shoe heels.

To enable drivers to see out of the car better, YCC designers have equipped it with top-of-the-line Volvo headlights plus lowered the hood and raised the fenders to provide better outside view. The rear window was also extended to the edge of the car so that drivers will always be able to see all four corners of the car. Interior Designer Cindy Charwick said, "It was all part of the aim of making life easier. The cabin environment has been designed so that everything you need is at your fingertips, and your surroundings need to make you feel good too."

Other unique features of the YCC include a center console with a shallow compartment for keys, mobile phones and other small items. The console also slides back to reveal a deeper storage space. A wastepaper basket is also placed inside the vehicle plus another compartment designed to hold a notebook computer.
The rear seats are similar to those found in movie theaters in the sense that they can be folded out of the way when not being used. Passengers need only to lower each seat as they get in. there are eight exchangeable seat pad options with corresponding matching carpet textures and patterns that allow drivers to alter the interior according to their personal taste or style.

The YCC has a 215 horsepower, five-cylinder PZEV (partial zero emissions vehicle) engine with an Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG). The ISG enables the driver to shut off the engine when waiting in traffic or at stop lights and then restart again once the driver presses the accelerator.

Its six-speed Powershift gearbox lets the driver to choose from the fully automatic mode or use the controls on the steering column in shifting gears. The Powershift technology also ensures that the gear changes are always at the right revs resulting to smooth driving and lower fuel consumption.

The YCC was also made easy to maintain with its two capless ball-valve filling points which are basically similar to those found on racing cars and located at the drivers side door. One is for gasoline while the other one is for washer fluid. And since the windshield washer fluid filler is found on the outside of the car, the engineers have designed the vehicle without a conventional hood. And just get a load of this!the car will automatically notifies a service center when it is time for routine checkup and set up an appointment. Amazing!

The exterior of the car has also some remarkable features of its own like the Easy-Clean paint that covers the car and has qualities similar to coating on non-stick pan making it impossible for dirt to cling to it. The YCC is a concept car that showcases Volvos bright ideas and solutions to make the world a lot better. "We want cars to make life easier for their owners, not complicate things for them," said YCC project manager Eva-Lisa Andersson.

Saab 9-3 Range Offers New V6

For the 2008 model year Swedish car manufacturer Saab will come out with a redesigned Saab 9-3 range. The new variants of the 9-3 will come with more aggressive styling cues than their predecessors. Aside from exterior design changes, the new 9-3 range will also offer an all-wheel drive configuration and a selection of powerful gasoline engines.

On the outside, Saab revised the front, side, and rear styling cues of the 9-3. The front of the new 9-3 exhibits styling cues was taken out of the Aero X Concept which was unveiled at the 2006 International Geneva Motor Show. The Clamshell hood is the most notable similarity that the third generation 9-3 has with the Aero X Concept.

Aside from the new hood design, the 9-3 also comes with new bumper moldings for the 2008 model year. The headlight and taillight configuration of the new 9-3 also received modifications. The extent of the redesign on the exterior of the Saab 9-3 includes the new design for the doors and their corresponding door handles. For the Sport Sedan trim level of the 9-3, 70 percent of the external body panels are new. This shows that the company has changed a lot in the exterior of the car.

Other notable external changes made to the Saab 9-3 include the flat wiper blades and new alloy wheels. The flat wiper blades produce less noise when battered by strong winds as compared to the previous wiper blades used on the 9-3 range. Two external colors are also added to the range according to Saab. One of the two new colors is the same as that used on the Aero X Concept which is Snow Silver.

In terms of performance, the 2008 Saab 9-3 range boasts of 100 percent rear torque transfer. The new all-wheel drive configuration gives better stability and handling for the new 9-3. The all-wheel configuration provides an improved traction for the car in any road condition.

Engine choice for the 2008 Saab 9-3 range includes the 2.8-liter V6 turbocharged engine which can produce as much as 280 horsepower. With the Sports Sedan trim level, the uprated V6 engine can propel the 9-3 to 60 miles per hour from a standstill in just 6.3 seconds. From 50 miles per hour to 75 miles per hour, the engine will only take the engine 7.9 seconds.

According to Saab, the new engine features a lightweight, all aluminum construction, variable inlet valve timing, twin scroll turbocharger, and hydroformed exhaust manifolds. The new manifold features stainless steel liners and improved air injection for a better cold starting capability.

The Saab 9-3 also comes standard with a Tire Pressure Monitoring system which warns drivers if their tires are under inflated. The system pinpoints which tire have a pressure below the set standard. The entertainment system that comes with the Saab 9-3 is a Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound audio system.

We are introducing significant developments across three key areas: design, performance and handling," says Jan ke Jonsson, the Managing Director of Saab Automobile. The result is a major step forward in strengthening the visual and driving appeal of our core product line-up, which accounts for about two-thirds of global sales. And with the interest that the Saab 9-3 is generating among car buyers, it looks as if Saab has succeeded in improving the design, performance and handling of the 9-3.

United Kingdom Meets Mitsubishi i

Mitsubishi Motors earlier announced that its award-winning i minicar will go on sale in the United Kingdom on the 1st of July this year. The Mitsubishi i minicar will be priced at 8,999.

The i, a Japanese kei car, was introduced by the automaker on 24 January last year. When asked about how the minicar got its name, the company responded, This new-age car encourages the owner to express him/herself ('I') fully. Starting with the letter 'i' (innovation) also served as a keyword in the development of the car."

The minicar debuted 28 months after its introduction as a concept car at the 60th Frankfurt Motor Show. After the debut of the car, initial sales target were surpassed by 20 percent. Also, in its first year, the i won four major awards. The four-seat i has even gained a cult status in Japan. There, it has proved its worth in both critical and commercial aspects. The success is attributed to its futuristic design, spacious interior, good handling and comfy ride.

Jim Tyrrell, the Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors UK, said, We displayed the i at Badminton Horse Trials, the British Motor Show and at a number of key dealerships around the country and the public reaction was wholly positive. The i has already become a cult car in Japan and were confident that its space and sophistication, coupled with Mitsubishis reputation for quality and reliability, will also make it a hit in the UK.

Last year, more than 37,000 units were already sold in Japan alone. Automotive design and awards also showered the Mitsubishi model. The Automotive Researchers & Journalists of Japan (RJC) named the i the RJC Car of the Year. Both customers and critics were wowed by the efficiency of the 64bhp, 660cc turbo engine of the car and the practical advantages that it delivers.

Other awards bagged by Mitsubishi i include the Most Advanced Technology Special Achievement Award, and it was also voted on as part of Japans Executive Committee of the Car of the Year awards. The Good Design Gold Prize and Good Design Grand Prize for 2006 were also given to the car by the Japanese Good Design Awards.

The said success has prompted Mitsubishi Motors UK to import the i. But before the importation proposal, an extensive feasibility study was conducted by the company. This is to ensure that Mitsubishi i has the great potential to make it big in the UK as well.

The Mitsubishi i will be sold through selected UK Mitsubishi dealers. The initial availability set was just 300 units. Moreover, with several deposits already made, the i is said to have lured a small following in the UK.

The Mitsubishi i is equipped with a "rear-midship" engine mounted just ahead of the rear axle. The forthcoming European versions will feature Mitsubishis INVECS-II semi-automatic transmission. The automaker will also incorporate 3B20 aluminium-block three cylinder powerplant, a DOHC cylinder head with MIVEC variable valve timing, and intercooled turbocharger to produce a peak power of 47 kW and torque of 94 Nm. For this year, a naturally aspirated engine was introduced by the automaker. The engine is capable of producing 38 kW and 57 Nm. To boost the efficiency of the engine, an equally-functional Mitsubishi cold air intake is utilized.

To create a bigger front crumple zone and to comply with the safety regulations, the automaker used a lightweight aluminium space frame structure and a rear-engined layout. This is also done so as not to compromise the interior space of the car. Mitsubishi i also features MacPherson struts are used in the front suspension, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and front discs with anti-lock braking (ABS).

The i in its name is a play on the Japanese word ai which means love. This idea emphasizes the cars adorable properties. Mitsubishi is also engineered to be clever, imaginative and innovative. These characteristics are set to attract the Europeans.

Nissan Overwhelmed By U.S. Workers Taking Buyout Offers

The Nissan North America Inc. said that 775 workers at its vehicle and engine plants in Tennessee, which equates to around 12 percent of the factories' combined payroll, had accepted a company buyout plan. Initially, Parent Nissan Motor Co. only expected about 300 of the 6,200 factory workers to take the buyouts but the real numbers astounded the automaker.

Nissan said that 681 employees at its plant in Smyrna and 94 employees at Decherd decided to take advantage of the offers. Retirements accounted for 303 of the combined number. Employees were offered a $45,000 lump-sum payment plus $500 for each year of service to walk away from their jobs. The buyout offers were not made available to employees at other Nissan manufacturing locations in North America.

The automaker is currently in the process of swiftly cutting costs to concentrate more on some production concerns. The cost cutting goal resulted to the relocation of its North American headquarters and 1,300 jobs from Gardena to Nashville in the previous year. The Japanese automaker said it offered the buyouts because of higher demand for passenger cars combined with lower demand for trucks and sport utility vehicles.

This program has resulted in tangible benefits for employees and the company, said Dan Gaudette, the senior vice president of Nissan North American Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management. Each person is unique, but several employees have already told us the program will allow them to return to school full-time, to start up businesses they have dreamed about or to start enjoying their retirement. It was the right program at the right time.

Buyouts have been odd among Japanese car makers with U.S. factories. Nissan said that it wanted to trim the manufacturing payroll in Tennessee because sales of labor-intensive light trucks built there were falling at the same time productivity had increased because of advances in manufacturing technology.

Nissan spokesman Fred Standish said the company does not have plans at this point to hire more employees for the plants. "The total number is good for us," he said. "We can continue producing."

Nissan Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn earlier noted a slump in U.S. sales, especially in sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks. The automaker also expects a decline in sales this year after six strong years of consecutive yearly increases.

The automakers Smyrna facility, which is located 25 miles southeast of Nashville, is its principal North American assembly plant. It holds a total of 5,200 employees. The engine plant in Decherd, with 1,000 workers, is about 95 miles southeast of Nashville.

The Smyrna plant manufactures Nissan Altima, Maxima passenger cars, Nissan Frontier pickups and Nissan Xterra and Pathfinder SUVs. The plant is responsible for the assembly of auto parts like the Nissan EGR valve and ensures their quality. The Decherd facility, on the other hand, manufactures engines for Nissan and Infiniti vehicles built in the United States.

Volvo Banks On EBS For Increased Braking Functions

To increase road safety, Volvo is including extra auto functions in its base range for its trucks. These functions will be delivered by EBS (Electronically controlled Brake System) to the European Volvo market.

If a customer selects a truck with EBS in base form, increased braking functions are included without extra cost. Additional functions include the Hill Start Aid, which prevents the truck from rolling backward when starting on an uphill gradient. Another valuable function is the Wheel Brake Monitoring, which alerts the driver if the brake force on any wheel unexpectedly falls.

Volvo trucks and selected cars are now equipped with the latest generation EBS and ventilated disc brakes. These vehicles offer significant number of safety and comfort enhancing functions for one-of-a-kind drive feel. Sophisticated disc brakes mated to standard EBS system ensures rapid response and the shortest possible braking distance.

Lars-Gran Lwenadler, safety director at Volvo Trucks said, We are now providing our customers with an extremely high safety level as standard, no matter the type of truck they order. This is entirely in line with our constant determination to increase safety for drivers and other road-users alike.

EBS system comes in three levels: standard EBS, EBS+ (Medium), and EBS High. The Standard package is included as before in the base version. In the medium level, all the functions are now enhanced with increased functions at no extra cost. This means that the base version has been upgraded with 6 additional functions for both rigids and semi-trailers.

The EBS+ system includes the Hill Hold additional safety function. It prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline. This is done by holding the vehicle on the service brakes until enough torque is distributed. The system includes traction control, incessant monitoring of brake pad conditions and temperature.

EBS High is given all the features of EBS+ and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP). The system is easily activated when the vehicle shows any tendency to lose contact with the road surface. ESP is available for Volvo FE as solo rigid.

EBS adjusts with the driving situation. It is equipped with a number of valves and sensors to regulate and monitor the braking system. The base range additional functions include the Hill Start Aid, Panic Brake Assistance, Wheel Brake Monitoring, Lining Wear Analysis, Drag Torque Control, and Differential Lock Control.

The additional braking functions from the automaker can also be expected in Volvo XC90 vintage car truck parts and other Volvo vehicles.

Nissans New Tech Center Opened

In the race to produce green vehicles, Nissan is lagging behind its fellow Japanese firms Honda and Toyota. These two car companies are already enjoying success in the United States auto market in terms of the sale of their hybrid vehicles. The Toyota Prius is a strong seller as well as the Honda Civic Hybrid.

For Nissan though, they are concentrating on producing vehicles equipped with the CVT or the continuously variable transmission. The use of the said gear box reduces the amount of fuel consumed by vehicles equipped with it. This means that greenhouse gas is also reduced. While Nissans use of the CVT protects the environment in its own way, car buyers are looking at hybrid vehicles as the better choice.

In response to this, Nissan is set to enter the fray of car manufacturers producing hybrid cars. In order to develop a green car that can be serious competition for the Prius and the Civic hybrid, Nissan built a technology center where developments of hybrid technology will be carried out. The new facility recently opened is located in Atsugi - a city in the Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan. At this facility, Nissan is developing lithium-ion batteries which will be used on the production of a hybrid vehicle.

Currently, hybrid vehicles uses nickel-metal hydride battery packs. The lithium-ion batteries being developed by Nissan for automotive application is considered a better choice since it weighs less and packs more power. Some of the tests being carried out by technicians at the said facility is rattling the batteries to simulate driving. They are also being tested under extreme temperature. This is to make sure that they will not malfunction during cold winter drives or will not explode when the vehicle gets too hot.

The development of the batteries is a step toward the mass production of Nissan green vehicles which is seen as a way to bring the company closer to Honda and Toyota in terms of sales.

Present at the opening of the technology center is Nissan Chief Executive Officer Carlos Ghosn. Whether products with technology that appeals to consumers can be offered in a timely manner will determine the winners and the losers, Ghosn said during the opening ceremonies. While the company has the resources to invest in the tech center, they are still hampered by their near-collapse during the previous decade. The companys current CEO is given much if not all of the credit for turning around the company to what it is now today. Last year though, the company suffered its first setback since Ghosn took the reins.

The year 2006 also saw Honda overtaking Nissan to become the second largest Japanese car manufacturer. The reason for Nissans poor year is the lack of auto models in their lineup. They have also been criticized for not producing hybrid cars. While the company is being wrongfully accused of that since their CVT reduces greenhouse gas emissions, they have remained resilient by setting a goal of selling a large number of Nissan vehicles equipped with CVT. Aside from the CVT, Nissan also uses Nissan EGR valves to reduce the amount of nitrogen dioxide emissions.

At the opening of the new facility, Ghosn reiterated that they are not seeking to add a new member to the Nissan-Renault alliance. We're not talking with anybody, he said. I don't think it's the right timing today. He said that while it is speculated that Nissan should partner with more car companies aside from Renault so that it can gain more technological advances, they will not be looking to do that since Nissan is developing its new technology. The new facility is concrete evidence that Nissan can develop technology on its own.

While it is apparent that Nissan is taking steps to gain ground against Toyota and Honda, experts in the industry said that Nissan will be fighting a hard battle although it most certainly will not be a losing one. This is because Honda and Toyota are fueled by their competitiveness that they are constantly outdoing the other in terms of developing new automotive technologies. Toyota is known for its leadership in hybrid technology while Honda has the first U.S. government approved fuel-cell vehicle. For Nissans part, not only will they be producing more hybrid vehicles but they have also announced that they will be producing a diesel powered vehicle for the United States auto market.

The popularity of diesel engines in Europe and the fact the Renault is based in France means that Toyota will be able to seek the help of their alliance partner in developing the diesel-powered Nissan Maxima which is set to be released in 2010.

Research On Major Automotive Innovations Funded

The drive for cleaner cars roaming the streets of the global community has reached another high. Case in point is the funding of research on major automotive innovations by the French Industrial Innovation Agency (Agence de l'Innovation Industrielle, or the AII). The agency recently announced that they will fund the research being conducted by Valeo, a leading automotive supplier all over the world. The AII has arranged the release of 61 million euros for use in the study being conducted by Valeo. The mentioned funding is in connection with the companys aim to decrease the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by vehicles.

This funding recognizes the value of the work that Valeo engineers have been undertaking in this field for several years and will allow us to offer the market new solutions that can provide up to 30 percent fuel savings with a significant reduction in CO2 and pollutant emissions, says Thierry Morin, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Valeo.

Valeo is doing research on two major innovations which will greatly help car makers in producing cleaner cars. The first one is the camless system. Valeo is looking for ways to replace the camshaft with electromagnetic actuators. This is a major innovation since a camshaft is common on all engines and this is the component which closes or opens the intake or exhaust ports by controlling the valves. The technology aims to reduce fuel consumption and pollutant emissions by as much as 20 percent. The fuel consumption will be reduced since the electromagnetic actuators will be powered by the cars battery instead of being a load on the engine. The technology will also increase significantly the performance and ride comfort of a vehicle by increasing low-end torque. This technology is primarily aimed at gasoline engines but a diesel version will also be developed in the future.

The second innovation being looked into by Valeo is a next-generation hybrid. Valeo hopes to improve the performance and fuel efficiency of their StARS+X technology. The technology will be equipped with a Start-Stop function which will enable the vehicle to shut the engine during idling. The technology will also be employing a regenerative braking system. This means that the energy given off during the application of the brakes will be recovered. Valeo will also add a high powered alternator that will provide the added power to the engine during low speed driving. Aside from these, better capacitors will also be used which would complement the entire system. All in all, the improvement on the StARS+X technology will further reduce the fuel consumption of a vehicle by as much as 15 percent.

These two systems that are being looked into by Valeo are compatible with each other. This means that in the future, vehicles may be equipped with a hybrid camless engine which will dramatically reduce the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by vehicles. This technology when employed on cars will definitely make a difference just like a brake component from Active Brakes Direct.

Volvo S40: Upholding the Marques Values

Volvo has a lot to thank the Volvo S60 for. The introduction of said car paved way for more prominent and best-selling cars like the second generation of S40. According to car analysts, Volvo S40 is probably the first small Volvo that really upholds the marques values. This is because of the car's design, appeal, and affordability factors.

Further, it is also considered as a clever used buy. As a used buy, S40 stacks up well. Additionally, a previous owner may leave a purchaser a whole host of classic Volvo values.

Volvo S40 upgrade parts feature styling touches that are genuinely never seen before. The new S40 introduces a brand new design based on the Volvo P1 platform. The car is manufactured at the Volvo Cars factory situated in Ghent, Belgium.

Volvo S40 won the 2005 Canadian Car of the Year Best New Sport Compact award. It was also nominated for the World Car of the Year award. Also in said year, the car was elected the South African Car of the Year by the South African Guild of Motoring Jounalists. One of the many variants of the car is S40 T5. Said variant features a 2.5 L (2521 cc) five-cylinder fuel injected engine with a light-pressure turbocharger. The engine is diagonally mounted at the front of the car and drives the front wheels. Its valvetrain, a DOHC design, has 4 valves per cylinder.

Some enthusiasts are saying that S40 can be considered as one of the best picks in the auto market these days. It is refined, reliable and made more affordable by the automaker. They added that from the faade to the bodywork, which is inspired by Ford Focus - and finally to what are found under the hood - everything is fascinating.

On the other hand, Volvo S60, which was introduced in 2000, is the automaker's entry-level luxury car. It is one of the first Volvo cars to use Peter Horbury's design called "curvy Volvos" that used the tagline used in "Revolvolution." Parts Volvo S60 was refreshed in 2004 to create brand new capabilities. For the 2008 model year S60 and V70 will be using Ford EUCD platform.

Volvo, Battling Over Emission Hazards For Safer Interior Air Quality

Earlier, the Ecology Center in Detroit conducted a survey regarding car emissions. In the said survey, it was found out that Volvo cars emit lower levels of toxic substances than other car makes.

The study titled Toxic at Any Speed: Chemicals in Cars & the Need for Safe Alternatives, delved into measuring toxic chemicals in building car interiors. The study includes flame retardant PBDE and phthalates, which are commonly used to soften plastics and textiles at high temperatures. These substances are treated as health hazards. They are dangerous to the respiratory system. As a fact, prolonged exposure to these substances could promote genetic mutations.

The Ecology Centers study revealed that the concentrations of PBDE in dust and on the windscreen are up to 5 times higher than in the homes of most people. Since many people today spend a lot of time in their cars, car interiors thus have a considerable effect on human health. The study subjected 11 different makes of cars built between 2000 and 2005 to meticulous scrutiny. It has found out that the interiors of Volvo cars have the lowest emissions of phthalates. In addition, the incidence of flame retardant PBDE is much lower. This fact, as attested by the research institute, made Volvo a world leader in the area of interior air quality.

In an age when many people suffer from asthma and allergies, it is only natural for Volvo Cars to offer its customers a good environment even inside the car, said Anders Krrberg, Environmental Director at Volvo Cars. To maintain Volvos high interior air quality standards, the automaker uses the right materials. This is done to ensure that the air entering the car through the climate system is properly filtered. The exceptional Volvo fuel filter used by the automaker is especially formulated to promote clean interior climate. This climate is preferred by individuals suffering from allergies and asthma as well as those who are particularly sensitive.

The textiles and leather used in our cars meet stringent Oeko-Tex standard 100, which ensures that fabrics and hides have been thoroughly tested to check for certain allergy-inducing substances. We also work with contact allergies and are phasing out toxic substances such as certain phthalates. Volvos IAQS air quality system has also been developed to clean the air and reduce the risk of allergic reactions inside the car, added Krrberg.

Volvo is famed for its dedication in producing environment-friendly vehicles. Lately, it has expanded its range to include FlexiFuel cars. These cars are powered by renewable bioethanol fuel. Interest in ethanol as a vehicle fuel is growing in Europe, said Gerry Keaney, Senior Vice President Market, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Cars. We are therefore expanding our range with additional models on a total of 9 markets. First to get Volvos FlexiFuel cars outside Sweden will be Britain, Ireland, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland and Norway.

Keaney continued, Its very encouraging that the market is expanding and that political initiatives are being taken. France has announced its intention to build 500 fuel stations for E85 this year. E85 is type of fuel with a blend of 85 per cent renewable ethanol and 15 per cent petrol. So far, there are 23 plants producing ethanol in Europe. The number is expected to multiply three-folds in 2008.

Ethanol is a promising fuel which can be produced from just about any biomass source like corn, wheat, sugar-beet and cellulose. A renewable fuel will not on its own be able to replace todays fossil fuels, and the range of alternative fuels will probably be far wider in the future. Many different fuels and technologies will therefore be developed in parallel. Ethanol reduces dependency on fossil fuels and Volvos FlexiFuel programme thus makes a vital contribution to our strategy of environmental sustainability, noted Keaney.

The Volvo C30, S40 and V50 are now available in an environmentally optimized FlexiFuel alternative. They are all powered a four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine producing 125 horsepower. Petrol and bioethanol are both filled in the same 55 liter tank. To complement the green potentials of the cars, the automaker modified fuel hoses, gaskets and valves. Also, the injection valves have been reinforced.

Our commitment to safe mobility needs to be enlarged from the protection of occupants and other road users in collisions to include personal health for all road users and to offer them sustainable mobility solutions, said Hans-Olov Olsson.